the
December|January 2014/15 Aylesbury & Villages
Wishing all our readers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
In this issue: Win Tickets to the Adventure Travel Show See the Christmas Star in the East Last posting day a fantastic charity Christmas puzzle 12,000 copies delivered FREE to Wingrave, Weedon, Quainton, Oving, Aston Abbotts, Bierton, Hardwick, Aston Clinton, Weston Turville, Waddesdon, Whitchurch and selected areas of Aylesbury www.thevinemagazine.com
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to their grandchildren; information about a support group is on page 18. If you get bored of Turkey or any other meat for that matter, we have a wonderful marinade on page 12 which will spice up practically anything! Ho Ho Ho Putting this issue together has definitely put me in the Christmas spirit, there are so many fun events coming up; lots of grottos, Christmas fayres and shows.
Good luck if you are having a go at winning the Adventure Travel Show tickets and don’t forget you can still go along with a great readers discount too.
Have a wonderful Christmas is particularly Christmas and a very about children and I hope happy New Year you will take a moment Andrena to read about our the The Vine Magazine plight of Grandparents who are denied access
CONTENT 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 26 28 30 32 34 35
Traveller’s Tale Traveller’s Tale part 2 Crafty Kids Jerk Seasoning Lost Pensions WIN Adventure Travel Show Tickets Support for Grandparents A Spot of Colour Autobiographies A Good Read What’s On RPM New Year and Resolutions Puzzle Solutions/Last Posting Days Hypnotic Healing
Copy Deadline for the February/March 2015 issue is 16th January 2015 Contact us for all your advertising in Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire andrena@thevinemagazine.com www.thevinemagazine.com Telephone 01525 222473 twitter @thevineLB facebook.thevinemagazine
Leaflet and Magazine Distributors needed If you are reading this copy of The Vine, our team probably delivered it to your home! I need more Distributors to join my team. You need your own vehicle, be organised and reliable, and to REALLY like walking. You will be allocated a batch of leaflets or magazines to be delivered to a specific area. Flexible hours to suit you. Work available from Monday to Sunday, between 7.00am and 9.00pm, so you can work around your lifestyle!
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A Travellers Tale To Snow Or Not To Snow, That Is The Question By Paul Heley
P
erhaps you'll remember a few years ago when one of the Eurostar trains got stuck in the tunnel because its electrics had shorted out due to the wrong sort of snow on the French side? Moral:- You can't trust the French on anything, can you. Well, at that particular time Val and I were waiting for this train to get back to St Pancras so that we could board it and start our Christmas holiday to the Austrian Tyrol. We waited, and waited and eventually learnt that the trip had been abandoned. But give our travel insurance and the holiday rail companies their due, we were reimbused down to the last penny. Having been treated so fairly, we thought we'd try again the next Christmas; and hope like mad that the French had sorted their snow out. Our ultimate destination was Jenbach in a corner of Austria close to both Germany and Italy. The rail journey took two days altogether with an overnight stop in Cologne. One cannot fault German trains and their timekeeping - they run correct to the minute - but the trouble with travelling on the run up to Christmas is that the world (and his dog) are all travelling at the same time. What is more, everyone (including the dog) has piles of luggage which the trains are not really geared for. The overall result was that, although we had individual seats booked, it could take ages before we were actually in our seats and with our luggage safely stowed. I must confess, the luggage aspect of the rail journey certainly took the shine off the whole trip: and, of
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Lake Achensee course, we had to face it all over again on our return (which was then the run up to New Year!). There must be another moral here somewhere and there's a lot to be said for being picked up at home such that the next time you see your luggage is either in the hotel room or in the cabin. A particular "luggage nightmare" happened on the final leg from Munich to Jenbach. It was a corridor train with separate compartments for 6 people and meant that any surplus luggage was piled in the corridor thus creating a real obstacle course when trying to pass. Especially when one passenger moving in the opposite direction had a Zimmer frame! I'm afraid that any natural sympathy towards disabled people quickly evaporated. He caused absolute chaos! Our tour manager was a fluent German speaker and he'd clearly made a study of German and Austrian medieval history. Whilst we were running alongside the Rhine from Cologne to Munich, he elucidated on the many castles which we passed; and it was much the same when we later went to Salzburg, Innsbruck and other places. He was very efficient, got us to the right spots at the right times; but could also be a bit boring and rather pompous. However, we survived and eventually arrived at our most comfortable hotel. But unfortunately, we'd brought the snow with us and for the next three days, it snowed on and off from a grey and leaden sky and we couldn't see the surrounding scenery at all - even on trips out. Our first trip was to Kufstein close
to the Bavarian border where we viewed the medieval castle and where a daily organ recital at noon is amplified so that the whole town can hear it. We also poked our noses into the very ornate church where some form of service was being conducted; but since we were clearly not part of this particular congregation, we didn’t stay long. In the afternoon, we went to Rattenberg - a small, and pretty medieval town renowned for its glassware and crystal. We’d been promised a Christmas market - which should have been very pleasant - but, for some reason, it wasn’t happening that day. A pity. Still, the shops had some lovely glass ornaments and artefacts which, although expensive, were very tempting. There were other coach or train trips to Salzburg and Innsbruck but the dull weather put a dampener on both of these and meant that supposedly beautiful buildings were not seen at their best. Also, we were taken round the world famous Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg - but there’s not much in the way of floral delights in December when it’s snowing! Salzburg is Mozart this, Mozart that, Mozart with bells on; it’s difficult to escape from the guy. But there’s a splendid castle and an extremely ornate cathedral on offer. Speaking personally, I don’t think these super extravagant catholic cathedrals can lay a candle (forgive the pun!) on the soaring Gothic splendour of our English cathedrals and I feel that the Austrian ones are way OTT and that any self respecting Puritan would go mad!
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Bathroom & Kitchen installers Domestic plumbing Tiling Plastering Electrical Telephone 07956 818 248 contactus@rothwelljames.co.uk Innsbruck cathedral is much the same, ie not much to look at on the outside but the interior blows your mind with its over elaboration and fussiness. On Christmas Eve the hotel laid on a special meal - complete with a five piece brass band consisting of trumpet, flugelhorn, tenor horn, euphonium and tuba playing Tyrolean folk tunes and Christmas music. They made a most pleasant noise. A real old fashioned German style oompah band! Then, right on cue, it stopped snowing and next day - Christmas Day - the sun came out complete with a lovely blue sky. What a difference - the world was transformed. Suddenly, we realised that Jenbach is surrounded by lovely scenery and a trip out to Lake Achensee and the village of Pertisau reinforced our new found delight. The vil- Cologne cathedral. lage looked its picture postcard a ride on a steam train up the best and Val and I wandered all Ziller Valley to the ski resort of over the place rejoicing in this Mayrhofen. belated Alpine splendour. This Our reserved carriage was imwas what we'd come for. mediately behind the engine so In the afternoon, a sleigh ride the genuine train buffs (which had been arranged and we were didn't include either Val or transported through the forest to myself) could stand outside and a busy cafe/tea room/restaurant get their full dose of smoke in which was doing extremely good the lungs, soot in the eye and hot trade. It was very pleasant but embers to burn you. But clearly, rather "twee", contrived, and this train is clearly something rather touristy. of a local celebrity given by the Christmas dinner rounded off vast number of sightseers at each our festive celebrations and was stopping point. For Val and I, it followed on Boxing Day by what was an interesting journey and a many in the party regarded as nostalgic reminder of times past. the highlight of the entire trip:
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It's interesting to note that Val had been skiing in Mayrhofen back in the Dark Ages so she was keen to take the finicula up to the ski slopes and refresh her memory. Apparently, it's all very different now even though the scenery up top (about 6500 feet) is still as splendid as ever. This was our holiday swan song and next day, we had to survive the return journey. Sad to say, the luggage problem was still with us as was the the number of people on the move. However, at Cologne the next morning there was time to have a proper look at the cathedral. It's ENORMOUS. It's magnificent. It makes one feel antlike. To call it majestic is not sufficient - but I can't think of a better word. After this spiritual uplifting, we returned to Brussels and thence Eurostar to St Pancras and home. So, what did we make of the trip? I cannot say we enjoyed the luggage humping and scrambling for our seats: nor can I say that the start of the holiday with slate grey skies and snow was uplifting: but I can definitely say that when the snow stopped and the sun came out, our spirits rose a thousandfold; and, fortunately, that is the lasting memory. Would we do the same sort of holiday again? Perhaps, but never at Christmas or New Year. Maybe at a less popular time if there were a direct journey to our destination, ie no mucking about in between. We'll see.
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Crafty Kids! Every Christmas as a child I received a new colouring book and set of crayons with which I spent many happy hours sprawled on the living room floor colouring in the pictures. As the years progressed, the colouring book was replaced with a series of craft sets, and I remember one year spending ages knitting an extremely long scarf! Crafting helps children to develop their imagination, express themselves and explore new ideas or concepts. The creative process brings feelings of satisfaction and pleasure, and builds children’s confidence in their ability to make their own decisions and choices. Crafting is a great way to learn how to solve problems, follow directions and develop skills such as cutting, measuring, gluing and sewing. It can also give family members the chance to spend quality time together in a shared activity. Christmas offers children the opportunity to hand make gifts for friends and family members. From home-baked treats to a painted plant pot or a decorated photo frame, there is no end to the possibilities. Craft sets also make ideal stocking fillers and promise hours of entertainment. Loom bands are extremely popular right now, knitting is enjoying a revival, finger puppets are always lots of fun and card-making, jewellery kits and scrap books are guaranteed winners. You could also consider science and modelling kits. Have fun getting crafty this Christmas!
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Tastes so good... ROAST SEA BASS WITH A LEMON & GARLIC CRUST
Jerk Marinade Tastes so good...
Cinnamon Travelling Café specialises in ethnic street food. Our food is not what you would find at your local takeaway! It is not anglicised ethnic food, it is authentic ethnic food. We use only fresh ingredients and make our own spice mixes and sauces from scratch. We call ourselves a travelling café because we can travel anywhere and provide wonderful food for any occasion! This is our recipe for a deliciously hot Jerk marinade you can make at home.
PARSNIP QUICHE WITH BLUE CHEESE
Ingredients:
4 Scotch Bonnet chillies (take the seeds out if you don’t like too much heat!) 1 bunch of spring onions Thumb sized piece of ginger (peeled) 3 garlic cloves 1 lime (juice only) 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves 2 tbsp ground allspice 1 tbsp ground black pepper 1 tsp nutmeg 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp dried thyme 1tsp salt 1 tsp Herbs de Provence
This dish can be eaten hot or cold and it’s great for lunch boxes. You can use up left cooked veg from the Sunday roast instead of the freshly cooked parsnip. Sweet pot carrot can be exchanged for the parsnip.
Ingredients:
Shortcrust pastry: 100g salted butter 200g plain flour 4-5 tbps cold water
Diane Johnson
Filing: 200g parsnip, peeled & sliced 1 shallot, diced 3 eggs 175ml crème fraiche 290ml milk 1/2 tsp mixed spice or korma curry powder 50g good blue cheese 50g ham or cooked bacon
Perfect for2 atbsp simple honey lunch or a dinner party with friends, this main course is an easy crowd pleaser, looks2 tbsp great on the plate and is a wonderful dish to serve with vegetables or salad alike. Cinnamon Travellingbrown Cafésugar specialises in ethnic street food. Our food is not what you would find at your local takeaway! It is not anglicised ethnic food, it is authentic ethnic food. We use only fresh ingredients and make Method: our own spice mixes and sauces from scratch. Equipment: Small processor or mortar and pestle We call ourselves aPlace travelling café because we can travel anywhere andboxes. provide for any occasion! 1. all be the eaten ingredients blender untilfor smooth This dish can hotinto or acold andand it’sblend great lunch Youwonderful can use upfood leftover 2. Check the seasoning and add more salt if required cooked veg from the Sunday roast instead of the freshly cooked parsnip. Sweet potato or
: Oven: Gas Mark 5, 190°c ThisIngredients is our recipe for over a deliciously hot Jerk marinade you can make at home. carrotpork, canfish be or exchanged thelike parsnip. 3. Pour marinade chicken, anything youfor would to jerk! Equipment: 23cm / 9 inch buttered/greased loose bottomed flan d pin
Method: Make the pastry by rubbing the butter into the flour unti resembles bread crumbs. Add sufficient water to bring the pastry into a ball without it being sticky and leave to rest for half an hour the fridge.
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Cook the parsnip in boiling water until soft. Leave to cool. Fry off t until soft. Set to one side to cool. Line a 9 inch greased flan dish w rested pastry. Prick the bottom of the base gently with a fork to st bubbles forming. Bake blind (this will avoid the famous "soggy bott crumpling baking parchment and placing it in the pastry case bein to tear the pastry. Then fill with ceramic baking beans spreading th evenly. Cook at 450º F for 20 minutes until lightly brown and a litt
Remove the paper and beans. Whilst the pastry case is cooking be together and add the creme fraiche and milk, incorporating all tog whisk. Puree or mash the parsnip with the spice or korma and gra to the egg mixture until thoroughly mixed. Once the pastry case h of the oven dot the base with the blue cheese, onion and ham. Po mixture into the pastry case and bake on 180ºC for 45 minutes, or centre doesn’t wobble.
4. Leave marinade overnight orMethod: longer if possible. longer you can leave it to oil marinade, the morefish all 4 skinned fillets seatobass, BrushThe undersides with olive and season intense the flavour will be. washed under running water over with salt and pepper. Zest one of the lemons Equipment: 23cm / 9 inch buttered/greased loose bottomed flan and dish.squeeze Rolling Ingredients:5. The traditional way to cook jerked meat is on a BBQ. However, you can bake your meat in the Ingredients 3 unwaxed lemons juice. Wedge the other lemon for garnish. Whizzoven garlic with pin as well if it’s too cold outside! Make sure your meat is cookedMethod all the way through before serving. Shortcrust pastry: 4 cloves garlic lemon juice and zest. Once no more large pieces can be seen, Method: Make the pastry by rubbing the butter into the flour until 100g 1. and Place all the into it a blender and 4 Scotch Bonnet Smallsalted bunchbutter ofchillies washed fresh add the parsley, bread butter to ingredients the processor. resembles bread crumbs. Add sufficient water to bring the pastry together 200g plain flour blend until smooth (remove the seeds if you don’t like too much heat!) parsley it being sticky and tothe restseasoning for half an hour covered in if 2. leave Check more salt 4-5 cold water 1 bunch of spring onions into a ball without 25gtbps butter Quite quickly you should produce a moist andand veryadd tasty the(peeled) fridge. required Thumb sized piece of ginger 30g wholemeal bread breadcrumb mixture. Press this mixture firmly onto the upper Filing: 3. Pour overFry chicken, 3 garlic Cook the parsnip boiling water until soft. marinade Leave to cool. off the pork, shallotfish or 50mlcloves extra virgin olive oil sideinof the fillets. 200g parsnip, peeled anything wouldflan likedish to jerk! 1 lime (juice only) until soft. Set to one side to cool. Line a 9 inchyou greased with the Salt & pepper & sliced 4. Leave to marinade overnight longer if 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves rested pastry. Prick of the base gently with a fork stopor Roastthe for bottom approximately 20 minutes, or until thetocrust isairbrown. 1 shallot, diced possible. The longer"soggy you can leave it by to mari2 tbsp ground allspice bubbles forming. Bake blind (this will avoid the famous bottom"!) 3 eggs nade, the more intense the flavour willnot be. 1 tbsp ground black pepper crumpling baking parchment and placing it in the pastry case being careful Serve with whatever takes your fancy! 175ml crème fraiche 5. Thebaking traditional way to cook jerked meat 1 tsp nutmeg Diane Johnson to tear the pastry. Then fill with ceramic beans spreading them out 290ml milk is on a BBQ. cancrisp. bake your 1 tsp cinnamon evenly. Cook at 450º F for 20 minutes until lightlyHowever, brown andyou a little 1/2 tsp mixed meat in the oven as well if it’s too cold out1 tsp dried thymespice korma curry Remove the paper and beans. Whilst theMake pastrysure caseyour is cooking beat the eggs side! meat is cooked all the 1tsporsalt powder and through milk, incorporating all together with a before serving. 1 tsp Herbs de Provence together and add the creme fraicheway 50ghoney good blue whisk. Puree or mash the parsnip with the spice or korma and gradually add 2 tbsp cheese to the egg mixture until thoroughly mixed. Once the pastry case has come out 2 tbsp brown sugar 50g ham or cooked of the oven dot the base with the blue cheese, onion and ham. Pour the egg bacon mixture into the pastry case and bake on 180ºC for 45 minutes, or until the
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A5_sept14_joint_flyer_outlined.indd 2
17/9/14 17:46:33
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Your Money Matters Tracing Lost Pensions Have you lost a pension?
T
he number of people using a government-funded resource to track down their forgotten pension pots has doubled in the last four years. It’s not always easy to keep track of a pension, especially if you’ve been in more than one scheme or have changed employer. It’s important to claim your pension, so the sooner you trace a lost pension, the better. You don’t want to lose out on your hard-earned benefits! By 2018, all employers are required to provide workplace pensions, but with the average person having 11 jobs in their lifetime this could lead to 50 million dormant lost pension pots by 2050, the Department of Work & Pensions has warned. Are you sure it’s lost? Even if you have a certificate from a pension scheme, it doesn’t always mean that you have a pension entitlement. You may have had a refund of your contributions when you left that employer. The new pension tracing service allows pension pots of less than
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£10,000 to automatically move with a member as they change jobs. Pension minister Steve Webb said: ‘With the new flexibilities announced at the Budget it is now even more important that people can access all of their pension saving. People who have already lost touch with a pension can use our free tracing service to track down their fund.” Find a lost pension by contacting the pension tracing service online at www.gov.uk/find-lost-pension. To keep up to date with news on pensions and much more, follow us on Twitter @ClarkHowes or email info@clarkhowes.com to speak to us.
Looking Up!
In Beds & Bucks
TheNight Sky December 2014 & January 2015
the sky, all radiating from the constellation of Gemini.
See The Christmas Star In The East:
Look out towards the eastern horizon mid-evening this Christmas and you’ll see what looks like a bright star in the sky. At first glance it is indeed a star with royal beauty bright. Yet this is no star at all, but the largest planet in our solar system – the planet Jupiter. 10x50 binoculars are all you’ll need to resolve this bright beacon into a planetary disc. In a telescope we get a high-impact view with Jupiter’s alternating dark bands and light zones stealing the show.
Enjoy December’s Shooting Stars:
By Seb Jay Image by Dave Eagle
Discover The Orion Nebula (Pic left):
Bedfordshire sky watchers with a clear view towards their east are in for a real treat on Sunday December 14th. Between 8pm to midnight the Geminids meteor shower is forecast to hit its peak in activity. Expect to see upwards of 100 shooting stars per hour lighting up
Throughout early winter Orion hangs in the sky towards the south-east. It is easy to find with its three bright stars making up Orion’s Belt. Below the belt on the left-hand side is a fainter line of stars dropping down towards the horizon. This is Orion’s Sword. Embedded within the sword is the Orion Nebula – a spectacular stellar nursery where new stars are being born. The nebula can be seen in binoculars on a moonless night from the Chilterns, and is breathtaking in a telescope. seb@darkskytelescopehire.co.uk Dark Sky Telescope Hire www.darkskytelescopehire.co.uk
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t Pick A ‘Turkey ’ n o ’ D operators all under one roof will be on hand to offer guidance on everything, from walking and trekking to exploratory journeys, 17-18 January 2015, safaris, overland Olympia, London trips, life-changing The Adventure Travel volunteering projects and Show, now in its 19th Every Christmas as a child I received a new much, much more. year, is a world of colouring book and set ofThe crayons with Travel Adventure extraordinary discoveries which I spent many happy hours sprawled Show – it’s where your all under one roof. It is on the living room floor adventure colouring in the begins… the UK’s leading event pictures. As the years progressed, the colfor people who like book was a show seriesdetails of Forwith more to ouring travel outside the replaced craft sets, and I remember one year spendand to buy tickets please mainstream, whether visit www.adventureingon ages knitting an extremely long scarf! it be small-group Crafting helps children toshow.com. develop their adventures, exclusive imagination, express themselves and exexpeditions or epic We are giving 1 lucky journeys. plore new ideas or concepts. The creative reader the chance process brings feelings of satisfaction and to win a pair ofconfidence tickets to the pleasure, and builds children’s show! Just answer this in their ability to make their own decisions simple question below: and choices. Crafting is a great way to learn how to solve problems, follow Where directions is The Adventure and develop skills such as cutting, Travel Showmeasurtaking place? ing, gluing and sewing. It- Olympia can also give family members the chance - NECto spend quality time together in a shared- activity. The local village hall Christmas offers children the opportunity to READER’S TICKET OFFER: hand make gifts for friends and family memThe Adventure Travel We aretoalso offering a Show is packed with bers. From home-baked treats a painted price advance inspirational and plant pot or a decorated reduced photo frame, there tickets to the show! Get essential travel advice, is no end to the possibilities. tickets for only £6 specialist seminars and idealyour Craft sets also make stocking fillers (that’s saving £4 off the theand bestpromise adventure hours of entertainment. Loom door price!!) by quoting speaker of 2015, popular bandsline areup extremely right now, ‘VINE’ when booking including explorers, knitting is enjoying a revival, ticketsfinger onlinepuppets at www. adventurers, tour are always lots of fun and card-making, adventureshow.com or leaders and guidebook jewellery kits help and scrap books are guarwhen calling 0871 230 writers who will anteed winners. also consider 7159. (Calls cost 10p per you uncover your You could minute plus network science and modelling perfect adventure. Plus, kits. extras). theHave biggest funcollection getting crafty this Christmas! of specialist travel
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Crafty Kids!
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We all want our Christmas dinner to be special and a meal to remember for the right reasons! So how can you make sure that your bird is the best choice? First take the time to buy your meat from a source you trust. You might prefer a trusted butcher, farm shop or mail order company. Knowing how your meat has been reared and where it came from can help you determine the likely quality of the meat. Usually higher quality comes from younger animals that are subject to greater welfare standards. Of course prices will also reflect this so batteryreared birds will be much cheaper than those which have been subject to a mainly organic diet and free-roaming. Look for birds with unblemished skin, and if buying fresh check whether they will be dressed or whether you will need to do additional preparation. Consider carefully the size of the bird you require. General recommendations allow around half a pound or 225 g per person for boneless meat and three quarters of a pound or 340g per person for meat with a bone in. Of course appetites vary and you may want to buy larger deliberately, in order to have enough for leftovers. Choose well and enjoy your Christmas Dinner!
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PFPA10336_MS271114_10_14_PFPA10336_MS271114_10_14 31/10/2014 14:46 Page 1 040 M.Hub The Vine Ad.indd 1
Your local Prudential Financial Planning adviser Prudential is pleased to announce that Olga Heyburn has been appointed as the Financial Planning adviser for this area. Olga can help you make the most of your finances. Perhaps you have questions around the recent changes to pensions and how you could benefit? Or you’re looking to see whether your ISA is working hard enough? You may want a clearer picture of your pension income or how to make your retirement more tax efficient?
If you have a financial adviser, please talk to them. If you don’t, please call me today to book a no-obligation chat.
Call Olga Heyburn Dip PFS on 07766 780 802 or email Olga.Heyburn@prudential.co.uk We are qualified in financial planning and advise on a range of products from Prudential and other carefully selected providers. This is known as a restricted advice service.
“I look forward to meeting with you and helping you plan for a more secure future.”
“Prudential” is a trading name of Prudential Financial Planning Limited. Prudential Financial Planning Limited is registered in England and Wales. Registered office at Laurence Pountney Hill, London EC4R 0HH. Registered number 5739054. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
03/11/2014 08:
A HAPPY CHRISTMAS DAY? NOT FOR ALL GRANDPARENTS As Christmas Day draws closer a day on which very many grandparents are filled with joy, it is a very tearful time of year for so many grandparents both locally and nationally, who are denied contact with their grandchildren. It is officially estimated by The Grandparents’ Association (a national registered charity), that at least 1 million grandchildren are denied contact with their grandparents and over 68,000 children are in the care system, many of whom are denied all or reasonable contact with their grandparents. Both of these statistics are growing year after year, hence so very many grandparents in the country are experiencing heartbreaking pain and loss. The members of The Grandparents’ Support Group for Aylesbury Vale help support each other during this extremely distressing time in their lives.
The Aylesbury based support group for grandparents' denied contact with their grandchildren has been running for almost 4 years. Grandparents are denied contact as a result of divorce, family rifts, bereavements, 'the care system' or for absolutely no apparent reason at all. Consequently many grandparents are suffering great loss and pain every day of their lives. We would like to see grandchildren having the right to contact their grandparents (as long as it is safe to do so) but in the meantime our group offers information, support, advice and friendship in a confidential environment and helps grandparents to manage their loss as best they can. We regularly invite guests to our group meetings such as Family Law Specialists, mediation lawyers and Family Therapists, amongst others all of whom have valuable input and help to increase awareness of our support group and this growing issue. We also have an in-house library of helpful support books, as well as help sheets on a variety of matters that relate to grandparents being denied contact with their grandchildren. So grandparents if you are denied all or reasonable contact with your grandchildren please do get in touch and come along and meet us from 7 pm on the second Wednesday of the month at The Holiday Inn Hotel, Aston Clinton Road, Aylesbury, or for further information call 07949640156. Look forward to seeing you soon.
Registered charity England and Wales 216401. Scotland SC037717. © 2014 Illustrations by Jason Chapman.
agic begin... Let tthhaeLem t wi
ter fro m Santa
Request your Letter by 15 December, visit: nspcc.org.uk/santa
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05/09/2014 16:36
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Still think texting isn’t marketing? Bee Text Marketing aims to help you increase your profits and grow your customer base. We can help you to do this by creating engaging communication strategies with your customers using a combination of text, mobile coupons, mobile landing pages, loyalty programs and more. We use cutting-edge mobile marketing technology, integrated with email marketing and social media to help you communicate in ways that build rapport, trust and loyalty to attract new and retain existing customers. Don’t worry if you haven’t done this before, it’s easy to operate and we will give you access to our innovative mobile marketing dashboard so that you can create campaigns in minutes at the touch of a button. Mobile phone use is increasing all the time and is becoming the preferred choice for people when searching for information, finding places to go or buying products. Tap into these exciting opportunities and let us help you build a buzz for your business.
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In The Garden For me, winter is all about window gardening. That is, enjoying the garden from the window with a cup of soup in your hands There might not be much natural colour in the garden this time of year, but that is not to say there isn’t any, you just have to look harder, or differently.
P
Winter colour in the garden
ick the window that overlooks your garden best and heat up the soup. (Hopefully, you thought things through when planting earlier in the year and positioned plants with winter interest within your window’s view.) If you got it right, you will now be admiring the bare bones and structural beauty of your plot. Perhaps the drama of red-stemmed dogwood and yellow-stemmed willow, both classic shrubs for winter colour, and – if your garden is big enough – specimen trees with fabulous bark, such as a shiny cherry (Prunus serrula) or a fabulous peeling Acer griseum. Stick a dark green, well clipped, evergreen hedge behind any of the above and you have highlighted everything beautifully. Berries are a must, from trees such as rowan, through to shrubs like holly and Cotoneaster, Skimmia and Gaultheria. For a more unusual twist, try the rather surreal-purple berries of Callicarpa. They are always a talking point.
posts in strategic positions – I like dark blue as a counterpoint to evergreens, but red is a cheerful winter alternative with Japanese overtones. Don’t overlook mirrors, to double the impact of what colour you have, and lights to inject brightness into dark corners, or highlight shrub and tree structure. Whilst of the subject of highlighting, one of my favourite colour combinations occurs around sunrise and sunset, when you can sometimes see the dark, bare branches of a tree silhouetted dramatically against a darkening but still pale blue sky, or one streaked with early rosy pink. You see, there is plenty of colour to be found, it is just as I said at the beginning, you just have to look harder or differently for it. A bit of colour ful stain chee rs up this log store
Flowers, meanwhile are thin on the ground at this time of year, if you will excuse the pun. Snowdrops, pansies, crocus and hellbores can nevertheless be welcome splashes of colour through the window pane. All of this is horticultural stuff, but personalising your garden palette doesn’t have to involve green fingers – pimp up your pergola with a whacky stain, place silver or coloured balls or statuary where herbaceous plants have gone to sleep underground (move them before spring!), or go all designer and install some painted
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By Catherine Miller CLM Gardens www.clm-gardens.co.uk
ADAM BARNFATHER GARDEN DEVELOPMENTS Ltd.
Buckinghamshire University Technical College (UTC) offers a new concept in education. It gives 14-19 year olds the opportunity to take a highly regarded, full time, technicallyoriented course of study specialising in either Construction or IT. Responding to growing demands from the industry for well-educated, high calibre technicians, the College combines hand and mind to integrate national curriculum requirements with technical and practical elements. Alongside the usual GCSE/A levels, students study technical qualifications supporting our IT and Construction specialism. At the end of their course, they are armed with a strong set of both academic and technical exam results, giving them an advantage over their peers as they step into work, or further education. The UTC brings together major local employers like Taylor Wimpey, Cisco, Esri UK and McAfee in equal partnership. They helped form our curriculum and ensure our students gain valuable work-related learning to improve their employability within the Construction and IT sectors. Through their technical skills learning, exposure to the industry and employers from day one, our young people are more used to and ready for the working world, than those in a usual school environment. They have an excellent understanding of their specialism and the career opportunities available. Their employability skills are outstanding because they understand what is expected of them in the workplace as they’ve real experience of it. We’d be delighted to meet anyone who might be interested in our unique offer. Please visit our website www.buckinghamshireutc.co.uk for details of our upcoming events, or call 01296 388688 to make an appointment.
PROFFESSIONAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE Are you looking for a professional Gardener? Do you require a Plantsman and Horticulturalist ? Tired of your “Hoe mow blow and go gardeners”? Adam Barnfather Garden Developments Ltd are now providing a full garden maintenance service that includes:
REGULAR GARDEN MAINTENANCE from large gardens to small plots LAWN CUTTING LAWN SCARIFICATION / FERTILISING PLANTING SCHEMES AND SUPPLIERS OF SHRUBS, TREES AND PLANTS WINTER BEDDING SUPPLIERS and HANGING BASKETS PLANTING ADVICE SENSORY GARDENS GARDENS FOR THE DISABLED TURFING / TOP SOIL SUPPLIERS HEDGE / CUTTING and MANAGEMENT WEED CONTROL / SPRAYING AUTUNM and WINTER TIDY UPS RAISED VEGETABLE BOXES SUPPLIERS FRUIT TREE PRUNING COMPLETE ORGANIC GARDENING if required
For a free garden assessment and a detailed maintenance quote please contact Adam Barnfather Garden Developments Ltd.
TEL: 01296 682324 / 07702 887593 EMAIL: gardendevelopments2@btinternet.co.uk WEB: www.gardendevelopments.com
“ MAINTAINING GARDENS THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITIES”
auto Biographies
Volvo S60 By Tim Barnes-Clay www.carwriteups.co.uk
me, road-hugging presence. The Volvo saloon has a Volvo has never had an ‘in-command’ driving experihat appears rooted in the natural world. ence. The clean The overall effect is warm the same as feel. and contours give appeal it a very classy and cosy, like being in a Swedish
its German executive
house on a cold night. The car’s
themes correspond beautimentscousins. for the S60It include ‘Sensus’. This iscolour the name has never fully with the backlit white cones for looked all its HMIas (Human Machine Interface) aggressive trols in the dash and elsewhere in ality and the all-new Sensus Connected Touch as Audi, nor as brutal the vehicle. y is the latest addition. It enables connectivity and On the outside, the S60's road as BMW or as mean as in the car and turns the seven-inch display into a presence has been increased by the-artMercedes-Benz. infrared, beam-scanned touch screen But that a newthat front design. The more sed even wearing gloves - a world first in cars focused and determined-looking is awhen good thing. dy in winter. headlamps help create an expresYou see, the Swedish marque
sive face. The car’s horizontal
to say that German motors don’t
natural world. The clean surfaces
events. It’s the kind of car he’ll
Touch accessory is the latest
linesdongle at both the front and rear on is made eitheritsvia a car-mounted does things own way and that’s3G/4G have been emphasised. Together at the very heart of why motorists mobile phone. It allows you access to full Internet with details such as a wider grille, opt when for Volvo – evenInternet though they g (except driving), streaming of the and sameSearch, money,weather afford daylight running lights and LED n-line could, Googlefor Map tail lamps, they give the S60 a something a little sexier. tion, an App Store for new functions and handsome, updates as road-hugging presVolvoTake service locator. It is also possible to share ence. Thea Volvo saloon has a the S60; it’s very much a work with everyone in the car. thinking man’s car. And that’s not beauty that appears rooted in the
and contours give it a very classy attract intelligent people. certainly pushing at the technological boundaries feel. It offers someone of the most restful, area d that’s including very important of Enhancements for the S60 include supportive and sumptuous seats g: fuel efficiency. The fuel consumption of the S60 ‘Sensus’. This is the name Volvo on the automotive market. Chairs has , on test here with a manual gearbox, been you can imagine a college profes- uses for all its HMI (Human Mad to a class-leading 72.4 mpg, translatingchine into CO2 Interface) functionality and sor sinking into before lighting his s of only the all-new Sensus Connected pipe103 andg/km. mulling over the day’s
addition. It enables connectivity ironmental credentials like in these, then cruise back home whileany selfand to Internet listening to Classic Do youwill have ng, Volvo driving, collegeFM. professor put in the car and turns the seven-inch display into a statesee where I’m going here? out now. of-the-art infrared, beam-scanned
The S60 is by no means boring touch screen that can be used though; it can still satisfy your even when wearing gloves - a pleasure sensors. Let’s face it, world first in cars and handy in Scandinavian design is generally winter. pleasing. This is evident in the redesigned interior and exterior of Connection is made either via a car-mounted 3G/4G dongle or the latest S60. FACTS PROS CONS mobile phone. It allows you Step inside, and materials, such ‘N’your access to full wood and leather and the speed:as121mph Comfort √ Internet browsing easy-to-use controls, contribute to (except when driving), Internet
mph: 10.9 secs
22 mpg: 72.4 bined
Emissions √ Economy √
streaming of music, on-line Google Map and Search, weather information, an App Store for new functions and updates as well as a Volvo service locator. It is also possible to share a WiFi network with everyone in the car. Volvo is certainly pushing at the technological boundaries now – and that’s including one very important area of motoring: fuel efficiency. The fuel consumption of the S60 D2 diesel, on test here with a manual gearbox, has been improved to a class-leading 72.4 mpg, translating into CO2 emissions of only 103 g/km. With environmental credentials like these, any self-respecting, Volvo driving, college professor will have to put his pipe out now.
FAST FACTS Max speed: 121 mph 0-62 mph: 10.9 secs Combined mpg: 72.4 Engine: 1560cc 4 cylinder 8 valve turbo diesel Max. power (bhp): 113 at 3600 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 199 at 1750 rpm CO2: 103 g/km Price: £26,545 on the road PROS & CONS Comfort √ Emissions √ Economy √ Cabin √ Image X
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our customers
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WHAT WE OFFER Bucks UTC offers a new concept in education for 14 -19 year olds who have an enthusiasm for either Construction or IT.
EDUCATION BUT BETTER!
Alongside the national curriculum, our students gain practical skills as well as work experience with global companies. These are just some of the benefits: • State of the art facilities • Innovative projects and courses • Half-price bus travel (if you live over 3 miles away) Come to one of our drop-in sessions, every Tuesday 5-6pm. We even have Construction and IT taster sessions! Visit our website for more information: www.buckinghamshireutc.co.uk
Based in Aylesbury FIND OUT MORE
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www.buckinghamshireutc.co.uk 01296 388451 info@buckinghamshireutc.co.uk Twitter: @bucksUTC facebook.com/BucksUTC
Aylesbury Christmas Market - The brew and bite stop Sunday 14th December 2014 11am till 4pm By the clock tower A free rest point for families with elderly relatives
Enabling the elderly to be involved in community activity
Sponsored by
A Good Read
For You
Kept By DJ Taylor
Orange Pear Apple Bear Monkey and Me Little Mouse’s Big Book of Fears All by Emily Gravett
For The Kids
With simple text and charming illustraBilled as a Victorian Mystery, this novel by tions, there is an Emily Gravett book to DJ Taylor is a true page turner in the style of suit all ages. Dickens, Wilkie Collins and the like. With Orange Pear Apple Bear is beautifully multiple narratives and a range of perspecsimple, with a different permutation of tives, Taylor weaves a web of intrigue around the title on every page, and will provoke the life and death of Mr Henry Ireland and his big laughs from babies (Apple Bear is the wife, which surprises and delights the reader. 1. US festive treat Pumpkin ___ (3) current favourite in our house). AvailThe novel begins with an arresting episode in 2. Christmas song - When a _____ is Born (5) able as a sturdy board book, it can be which two men find themselves by a Scottish 3. 25th December! (9,3) revisited again and again. loch undergoing a series of challenges to steal 4. ____ log (4) Monkey and Me is well suited to toddlers rare birds’ eggs. This links them to the strange 5. 12 Down followed a ____ (4) who will identify with the main character but eminent naturalist James Dixey, who in 9. The ____ sent an angel to Mary (4) as, along with her toy monkey, she goes turn becomes the guardian of a strangely 11. Might be cranberry or bread (5) to see all kinds of animals. The simple disturbed young woman. 12. There were three of them (4,3) repetition in the text will have little ones At times the narrative thread is truly puzzling, 13. Fortified ____, drunk after dinner ‘reading’ along (4) and anticipating the and the reader must connect and theorize for 15. Greeting _____ Christmas! revelation on the next page – perfect for themselves – but this is no bad thing, and at reading aloud. least we can read on at our own pace rather Finally, Little Mouse’s Big Book of Fears, than having to wait, in the Victorian manner, is an award-winning book, which is ideal for the next instalment. There are plenty of for slightly older readers. Each page potential heroes and heroines, and a smatterdetails a different one of Little Mouse’s ing of particularly villainous villains, for us to fears, encouraging children to talk about engage with too. why they might be frightened of things One for those dark winter nights in front of like the dark or monsters under the bed. the fire – abandon the television and curl The real delight here is the multi-layered up with a good book instead. Although be illustrations, with chewed pages (aided warned – you may stay up later than you had by real mice!) notes, scribbles and anintended, reading on to the finish! notations. This, and the others above, deserve to become modern classics.
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Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles Puzzles
3 2 4 3
2 9 7 8 2 9 3
Sudoku 数独 1 6
7
9 2 6
8 4
3
6
DITCH
5 6
7
MARCH
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
Across 1.Traditional Festive drink Rum _____ (5) 3. Striped confectionary _____ canes (5) 6. Mary gave _____ in a stable (5) 7. Festive colour (3) 8. Given by 12 down (4) 10. Christmas lunch _____ turkey (5) 12. 12 Down came to _______ the baby (7) 14. City where King Herod lived (9) 16. Also given by 12 Down (5) 17. Christmas trees are usually this type (3) 18. Mary was told her ____ would be the son of God (4) 19. Christmas Carol The First ____ (4) 20. Christmas Carol Oh ____ Night (4)
Down 1. US festive treat Pumpkin ___ (3) 2. Christmas song When a _____ is Born (5) 3. 25th December! (9,3) 4. ____ log (4) 5. 12 Down followed a ____ (4) 9. The ____ sent an angel to Mary (4) 11. Might be cranberry or bread (5) 12. There were three of them (4,3) 13. Fortified ____, drunk after dinner (4) 15. Greeting _____ Christmas!
WHAT’S ON? so much we can’t fit it all in!
The online calendar is updated regularly
Thursday 4th December Christmas Concert in aid of Stoke Mandeville Hospital An evening of festive music and carols performed by The Mandeville School Orchestra, Chiltern Hills Brass Band and local singer Miss Jill Neenan together with a choir. Tickets £10 to include mulled wine and mince pie. Available in advance from www.scannappeal.org.uk/ events or at the door. 7.30 pm Address: St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Square, Aylesbury, HP20 2JJhttp://www.scannappeal.org.uk/ events
readers, make sure you come along! Lunches & teas will also be served. Hopefully, Father Christmas will arrive by pony and trap at 11.45am. The Anthony Hall, Aston Clinton, HP22 5NA www.s-michaels.org.uk/
4th December Music at Lunchtime - Martin Smith - Euphonium, Anna Le Hair - Piano Martin is a great ambassador for this neglected but surprisingly lyrical instrument, as his previous appearance showed. We shall have an enjoyable and entertaining selection of original pieces and arrangements, accompanied by Anna, whose solo recital here was a great hit. St Mary’s Church Aylesbury Bucks HP20 2JJ 12:45PM to 1:45PM Cost: £4.00 Under 18s free Contact: Tel: 01296 437641 Email: aylesbury.stmary@virgin.net Saturday 6th December William Harding School Christmas Fayre Come and meet Father Christmas and see all our wonderful craft stalls 11am William Harding Combined School, Hazlehurst Drive, Aylesbury, HP21 9TJ Saturday 6th December Watermead Christmas Craft & Gift fair For a unique range of gifts for family & friends Refreshments available 11.00am Watermead Village Hall, Watermead, Aylesbury www.watermead-pc.gov.uk Saturday 6th December St. Michael’s Christmas Fair Our Christmas Fair will take place at the Anthony Hall, Aston Clinton from 11am to 3pm. A wide variety of stalls including plants, cakes, gifts, vintage accessories, raffle etc. We also have a wide range of vintage books, classical & jazz CDs so music lovers &
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9th December Aylesbury Rota Club Santa Float in Waddesdon for Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity from 6pm Sunday 14th December Christmas Fair & Carolfest Add free sparkle, fun and entertainment to a dreary Christmas shopping trip, as Aylesbury Town Council are excited to bring you a Christmas Fair in the Market Square from 11am until 4pm. This free, festive, fair for all the family has to be the perfect remedy for stressful shopping - come and see the team, even if only for half an hour and feel your stresses melt away. Whether the children have been naughty or nice, you can watch the smiles warm their faces as they are entertained by the talented and amazing Mr Alexander, the travelling magician; stilt walkers; crystal ball manipulator; Rag and Bone the one man music show; live music with toe tapping sing along Christmas classics; a fairground ride; balloon modelling; face painting; hot punch; roast chestnuts; Christmas photo booth; arts, crafts, games and more, and you’ll be smiling too, because all of this won’t cost you a penny during the demanding month of December. Fair 11am - 4pm and Carolfest 6pm - 7pm FREE Market Square, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP20 1XD Contact telephone: 01296 425678 Saturday 20th December to Monday 22nd December Santa’s Magical Adventure at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre The fun starts the moment you arrive! You will be shown to your reserved seats on the steam train where you will be joined by Santa himself. One of Santa’s pixie helpers will pull your gifts from the huge toy sack and the magic begins! Please arrive 20 minutes before the advertised departure time and you should allow about 2 hours for your visit to include the train ride and live children’s entertainment. “BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL on 01296 655720 (weekdays 9.30 - 4.30), or book
e
Let us know about your fundraiser or event in charming wooden chalets. Waddesdon Manor Aylesbury Bucks HP18 0JH 10:00AM to 5:00PM Normal Garden admission fees apply 01296 653226 or Bookingswaddesdon@nationaltrust.org.uk
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4
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www.thevinemagazine.com add your own event here
SANTA’S GROTTO igh
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to
‘L
Li t up a
Your opportunity to remember and honour someone special at Christmas time. All donations go towards supporting the work of Florence Nightingale Hospice.
Sunday 7th December 5.00pm FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE HOSPICE. Sunday 14th December 4.00pm ST LAURENCE’S CHURCH, WINSLOW. Every Day At A Time To Suit You New - Virtual Tree visit www.fnhospice.org.uk For more information or to make a personal dedication call: 01296 429975 or visit: www.fnhospice.org.uk
HOSTED BY KIDSOUT Children are invited to visit Santa and receive a present (a small charge will apply) 6 December - Tesco Car Park, LB 7 December - Rushmere Park 13 December - High Street, LB 24 December - Market Cross, LB
Registered Charity No. 1119499
online.Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP22 4BYwww.bucksrailcentre.org Friday 21st December Manor House String Quartet An evening of seasonal music, beautifully arranged for string quartet by Vaughan Jones’ Manor House Quartet. Set in the cosy atmosphere of St Giles’ Church, Cheddington, listeners will be able to enjoy a mix of classical, Christmas and pop/rock numbers. Mulled wine and mince pies will be available. 7.30pm for 7.45pm start. Prices £10 or £7 concessions (students, retired persons). Will finish at approximately 10.00 pm.St Giles’ Church, Cheddington, Buckinghamshire LU7 0SG Contact telephone: 07773 786864 Dates throughout December Waddesdon Christmas Fair Our spectacular Christmas Fair offers gifts, decorations and festive foods. Held on the magnificent South Terrace of the Manor, overlooking the Parterre and the Vale of Aylesbury, with 55 selected stall holders housed
GEMSTONE MIDNIGHT WALK LAUNCH 2015! Nightingale Register for Florence Hospice Charity’s annual Gemstone Midnight Walk at the launch & save money!
Saturday 31st January Friars Square Shopping Centre
*EARLY BUNNY OFFER* -
£13!
www.gemstonewalk.co.uk
H
ave you noticed an increase in cyclists on our roads, and you
want to be part of this? o you want to get fit, lose weight and don’t fancy running? Then read on.
D
Since before Chris Hoy and Bradley Wiggins achieved world beating victories, there has been a steady increase in cycling. First as a reaction to rapidly rising petrol and transport costs, as a way of getting to work. Then as a fun way to build and sustain physical fitness. Finally as a worthwhile activity, to train for and take part in cycling events. I took up cycling in 2001, when I was challenged to a 50 mile charity ride. Problem was I didn’t have a bike. I managed to buy a ladies mountain bike for a mere £10. As a 6’ tall male, it wasn’t perfect, but it was a start. I fitted smooth-treaded road tyres, a saddle and I was off. I completed the ride (ahead of my challenger) and then looked around for more rides. I discovered a wide range of cycling events, taking place all over the country, every week of the year. I urge anyone taking up cycling to find an event, focus on it, and plan to build your fitness to complete that event. Tell your
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friends and family. They will support you and that will be your motivation. Make contact with other cyclists, and ask advice. Look online at cycling fora, but mostly get out and ride your bike. Even though it is winter, you can dress and equip yourself for the conditions. If you enjoy cycling at this time of year, when the spring and summer comes, it will be bliss. Choose a bike that will suit your chosen activity. There are racing bikes and sportive bikes. Bikes for touring, off-road and cyclocross. Hybrids, fixies, BMX and many more. You don’t have to spend a fortune, but do ask for advice, especially from your local bike shop.
Helpful Sites: Favourite forum: www.yacf.co.uk Favourite online bike supplies: www.wiggle.co.uk Favourite online route-planning site: www.bikehike.co.uk Jeremy Russ Sure2Door Aylesbury www.sure2door.co.uk and keen cyclist 0789 997 3810
Suitable for ages five and o
Polar Bear Craft
Family activities Toddler Tuesdays Every Tuesday in term time from 14.00 Free
at Tring was built in 1889 to house the incredible zoological collections of Walter Rothschild. Come and discover animal specimens from around the world, from tiny beetles to enormous bears.
Suitable for all ages. Tickets £1.50
Borrow something special from the collection and help your toddler explore and play around the Museum.
Autumn Hedgehogs Thursday 13 November 30-minute craft workshops at 11.00 and 14.00
at TringMessy was play builtespecially ble zoological for under fives. hild. Come and£1.50 Tickets om around the Animal Calendar normousThursday bears. 11 December
Free, advanced booking re
Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December 30-minute workshops at 10.1History 5, 10.45, 11. 15, The Natural Museum 14.30 and 15.00
Buying event tickets Unless otherwise stated, tickets can be bought in person on the day of each event.
30-minute craft workshops For at 11.00 and 14.00 bookable events
Buy
Unless bought
Explore exhibitions and events at www.nhm.ac.uk/tring.
For boo 020 79 Monda
Exhibitions
Teleph a debit
Last chance to see
A Shot in the Park
Bookin
Until 16 November Free
please call Admire the wonderful winning images from this local 020 7942 6163. Lines are open photography competition, in partnership with Tring Brewery and the Woodland Trust, sponsored by Millican. Monday to Friday, 10.00 to 16.00. Build a BirdToddler Box Potato Print Penguins Christmas Holiday Challenge Thursday 19 February Thursday 8 January Every Tue with 20 December to 4 January Telephone bookings can only be made One-hour workshops at 30-minute craft workshops at 11.00 and 14.00 Free debit/credit card. Search the galleries for the lost a polar bears on this trail. Group activity, one boxsom pe Messy play especially for under fives. Borrow Wildlife Photographer of the Year Free toddler exp Tickets £8 per box, eight b Tickets £1.50 Bookings open Thursday 23 October. 29 November to 8 March m at Tring was built Free Autumn dible zoological Thursday Polar Bear Craft rom this Come local 30-minute child. and p with Tring Brewery and at 11.00 a Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December Unless otherwise stated, tickets can be from around the can. 30-minute workshops at 10.15, 10.45, 11.15, Messy play bought in person on the day of each event. enormous bears. 14.30 and 15.00 Toddler Tuesdays for under fi
Fam
Messy play especially for under fives. Tickets £1.50
Buying event tickets Family activities
Every Tuesday in term time from 14.00 Bird Feeders For bookable events please call Free Thursday 12 February 020 7942 6163. Lines are open Borrow something special from the collection andand help14.00 your 30-minute workshops at 11.00 toddler explore and around the Museum. Monday to play Friday, 10.00 to 16.00. Especially for under fives.
ents at
e Year
The watchful cheetah © Leon Petrinos
ts at
Events for adults
Suitable for all ages. Tickets £1.50
50 Years of Measuring Change: The Rothamsted Insect Survey
Tickets £1.50 Autumn Hedgehogs Telephone bookings can only be made with Thursday 13 November a debit/credit Funky card. Photo Frames 30-minute craft workshops
Thursday 6 November 19.00–20.00
Tickets £1.5
Animal C
Thursday 30-minute
Messy play
Tickets £1.5 Join chief ecologist Chris Shortall to discover the results Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 February at 11.00 and 14.00 Christm of a long-running survey of UK moths and aphids, and Bookings open Thursday 23 October. 30-minute craft workshops at 10.15, 10.45, 11.15, Messy play especially 20 Decem the relevance of this unique dataset to understanding 14.30 and 15.00 for under fives. Bird Feeders An international showcase for the very best change. nature photography, environmental Search the Suitable for ages five and over. this annual exhibition continues to amaze and inspire with Thursday 12 February Tickets £1.50 Tickets £4.50, advance booking required Free Polar Bear Craft s from this local beautiful and thought-provoking images from around the world. 30-minute workshops at 11.00 and 14.00 Tickets £1.50 50 Years of Measuring Change: ship with Tring Brewery and Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 December Animal Calendar Behind the Scenes in the Rothschild Library Especially for under fives. illican. 30-minute workshops at 10.15, 10.45, 11.15, Den Building in Tring Park The Rothamsted Insect Survey Thursday 11 December Saturday 17 January Tickets £1.50 14.30 and 15.00 Toddler Tuesdays Wednesday 18 February Thursday 6 November 30-minute craft workshops at 11.00 and 14.00 30-minute visits at 10.15 and 11.00 45-minute at 10.30 14.00 Every Tuesday in termactivity time from 14.00and 19.00–20.00 Suitable for all ages. play especially for under fives. Funky Photo Frames Messy Free Suitable for ages five and over. Join chief ecologist Chris Shortall to Tickets discover the results £1.50 Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 February Tickets £1.50 something special from the collection help your survey of UK moths and aphids, and a long-running Free, booking requiredofand 10.15, 10.45, 11.1advanced 5, he Year30-minute craft workshops at Borrow Potato Print Penguins toddler explore and play around the Museum.the relevance of this unique dataset to understanding 14.30 and 15.00 Christmas Holiday Challenge day 30 December Thursday 8 January environmental change. DecemberHedgehogs to 4 January s at 10.1Suitable 5, 10.45,for11. 15, five and over. 20Autumn ages 30-minute craft workshops at 11.00 and 14.00 Tickets £4.50, advance booking required best nature photography, Search the galleries for the lost polar bears on this trail. Tickets £1.50 Thursday 13 November Messy play especially for under fives. ze and inspire with 30-minute craft workshops Free Behind the Scenes in theTickets Rothschild Library £1.50 s from around world. in Tring Park Denthe Building at 11.00 and 14.00 Saturday 17 January Wednesday 18 February Messy play especially 30-minute visits at 10.15 and 11.00 45-minute activity at 10.30 and for14.00 under fives.
Family activities
Suitable for ages five and over. Free, advanced booking required
y best nature photography, maze and inspire with ges from around the world.
guins
kshops at 11.00 and 14.00
or under fives.
Events for adults
Tickets £1.50
Animal Calendar Thursday 11 December 30-minute craft workshops at 11.00 and 14.00
A rare opportunity to visit Walter Rothschild’s personal library, not usually open to the public, and see some of its beautiful natural history volumes. Please bring proof of address, details provided on booking. There is no step-free access to the library.
Messy play especially for under fives. Tickets £1.50
Potato Print Penguins
Christmas Holiday Challenge 20 December to 4 January
£4.50, advanced booking required ThursdayTickets 8 January 30-minute craft workshops at 11.00 and 14.00
Search the galleries for the lost polar bears on this trail.
Messy play especially for under fives.
Free
Tring Mansion from Wren to the Performing Arts School
Tickets £1.50 Thursday 19 February A rare opportunity to visit Walter Rothschild’s personal library, 19.00–20.00 not usually open to the public, and see some of its beautiful Build a Bird Box Mike Hutchinson has delved into the darkest corners of the natural history volumes. Please bring proof of address, details Thursday 19 February mansion’s history to discover all its previous owners, from provided on booking. There is no step-free access to the One-hour workshops at 10.15, 11.15, 14.30 and 15.30 Henry Guy to the Performing Arts School, and tracks the library. Group activity, one box per group, suitable for ages five and over. changes associated with them and the building. Tickets £4.50, advanced booking required Tickets £8 per box, eight boxes per workshop. Tickets £4.50, advanced booking required
Tring Mansion from Wren to the Performing Arts School
Happy New Year
Around The World!
Amazing firework displays from around the world have become a familiar sight on New Year’s news programmes. Many countries also have traditional forms of celebration dating back hundreds of years.
In Denmark traditions involve smashing plates. People throw broken plates on to friends’ doorsteps. This symbolises good wishes for the year In the UK many people ahead. Another tradition observe first-footing. This is traditionally done by a young, involves leaping from chairs on the strike of midnight. healthy, good looking male with dark hair. He carries gifts which include a piece of In Austria, New Years Eve is called Sylvesterabend which coal, money, bread and salt, and should be the first person means Eve of Saint Sylvester. Suckling pig and peppermint through the front door after ice cream are traditional food the New Year begins. This is for New Year celebrations. believed to bring good luck. Auld Lang Syne is the familiar Tables are often decorated tune that many of us sing. This with marzipan pigs, and good luck symbols made out represents remembrance of of chocolate or marzipan old friends and times spent with them. Generally credited in shapes such as chimney sweeps, coins, or horseshoes to Robert Burns, he actually said he was merely noting the are exchanged.
Lead is considered to be auspicious in Germany so at New Year, they pour molten lead into cold water and see what shape develops. It is believed that this predicts the future, so: heart shapes symbolize marriage, round shapes denote good luck, and a ship means a journey. People also leave a bit of every food eaten on New Year's Eve on their plate until after Midnight, as a way of ensuring a well-stocked larder. Carp is also included, as it is thought to bring wealth. Whereas in Brazil, lentils are seen as a symbol of wealth and prosperity and thus are traditionally part of a New Year’s meal. Other customs include priestesses of the local macumba voodoo cult, dressing up in blue and white for a ceremony dedicated to the god of water Yemanja. In addition, a sacrificial boat laden with jewellery, candles and flowers is pushed out from Ipenama beach in a bid to bring health, wealth and happiness. In Greece, 1st January is also St Basil’s Day. He is remembered for his kindness and generosity to the poor. Vassilopitta, or St Basil's cake, is one of the special dishes that is prepared and contains a silver or gold coin. Whoever finds the coin will be lucky for the next year.
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words of an ‘old man’s singing.’ He set these words to the tune of a traditional Scottish ditty ‘Can Ye Labour Lea.’
What’sBestForYou Are you entitled to any extra winter help. Winter is a tough time for many as the cold sets in. Therefore there are some funds which may help... a) Winter fuel payments. If anyone in your house was born on or before 6 Jul 1952 and gets a state pension, pension credit or jobseekers allowance you automatically get the up to £300 winter fuel payment (providing you met this qualifying criteria by 21 Sept 2014). Some on other benefits may be eligible too, but will need to claim if new to it. b) Cold weather payments. Anyone on specific income support/jobseeker’s allowance/ pension credit gets £25 for every 7 days it’s sub-zero. It’s paid automatically from 1 Nov this year. c) Choosing between heating and eating? If you’re seriously behind, or in general financial hardship, you may be eligible for special tariffs/help. Try the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99.
IT’S THE LAW!
R
esolution – What is it?
With the festive season approaching, many of us will be thinking about our relationships, whether that be with our spouses, partners or children. Some of you may be thinking about ending a relationship, or if you are already separated, thinking about your contact arrangements with your children or even their residence.
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With respect to the Code itself, the member must avoid the use of inflammatory language, conduct matters in a constructive and non-confrontational way and encourage clients to put the best interests of any children first.
When you are considering taking legal advice there are many factors that you should consider and any accreditation or memberships that your legal advisor has may be important.
Why is this important? You may wish to keep matters amicable particularly where children are involved. In any financial negotiations, the way in which a matter is conducted can have a direct impact upon costs; inflammatory language tends to mean that it can sometimes take longer to reach an agreement, which in turn can sometimes mean higher legal costs.
Resolution is perhaps not an organisation that many of us have heard of, but it is in fact the UK’s largest organisation of family lawyers with approximately 6,000 members. It believes that family law disputes should be dealt with in a constructive way, designed to preserve people’s dignity and to encourage agreements.
It is of course still possible for your legal advisor to act in a firm fashion whilst abiding by the Code and at the end of the day all family lawyers will work to same set of rules when it comes to working out a division of finances, contact arrangements for any children or setting up a Pre-Nuptial Agreement.
Resolution is the recognised voice of family law and has been influential in impacting many Government policies. All members must abide by its Code of Practice and to be accepted must demonstrate, by answering a series of questions their commitment to the Code.
Miss Hazel Page is a Solicitor and a Member of Resoluton. For any enquiries please contact us on Hazel.page@ommlaw.law.co.uk or telephone 01525 378177.
Answers Step On It DITCH HITCH HATCH CATCH MATCH MARCH
CHARITY CHRISTMAS PUZZLE 2014 This year’s Christmas Puzzle, which has entrants from around the world, has a theme designed to help completion and is likely to appeal to people who enjoy doing word puzzles. All entries qualify for one of five £10 prizes -£30 prizes for the four highest scorers. The Puzzle can be accessed from www.christmaspuzzle. co.uk. For more details contact Gordon Gray on 01525 220136.
LAST POSTING DATES - UK Thursday 18th December
2nd class and Royal Mail signed for™
Saturday 20th December
1st class and Royal Mail signed for™
Tuesday 23rd December
Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD (WAS AIR MAIL) Wednesday 3rd December Asia, Far East (including Japan), New Zealand
Thursday 4th December Australia
Friday 5th December Africa, Caribbean, Central & South America, Middle East
Monday 8th December
Cyprus, Eastern Europe, Greece
Tuesday 9th December Canada, Poland
Friday 12th December USA
Saturday 13th December Western Europe (excluding Greece, Poland)
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Hypnosis as a healing power Method dates back to ancient Egypt Is hypnosis a ‘new age’ therapy? The answer is definitely no! Hypnosis was used as a tool to assist healing by ancient Egyptians as far back as 2900 BC. The earliest known physician in history, was the Imhotep the Physician Vizier to the Pharaoh Zoser and he regularly used the hypnotic process in his work. Most modern day hypnotherapists use two forms of therapy, one being suggestion therapy and the other being full analysis. Suggestion therapy is particularly successful with the control or changing of habits, such as smoking, nail biting and some forms of over eating. It is also very useful when building confidence for such things as exams, driving tests etc. Many successful sports people now use it for performance enhancement. Analysis takes longer and is used in helping people with a range of issues such as phobias, deeply rooted emotional, abuse related and sexual problems as well as many others. A hypnotherapist does not have special powers but they do have special knowledge which enables them to act as a facilitator for change. A local therapist when asked to explain her therapy, she replied, “The best way I can do
that is to relate it to life’s baggage. Over the years, we collect more & more. Some of it is given to us at a very early age & carrying it around becomes more difficult. We can sometimes be unaware that negative influences in our childhood are manifesting themselves in our adult life in a very destructive way. I work with my clients to help set them free from whatever has been holding them back”. The hypnotist that you see on TV making people do silly things is an entirely different thing from the use of hypnosis as a healing power that has the potential to significantly change people lives for the better
Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy has helped many people in many ways, it could be just the help you need. Angie Elborne DHP, MNRH Reg Hyp. Reg CNHC Experienced Therapist for over 25 years CNHC are the only regulatory body for the profession of hynotherapy recognised by the Department of Health Tel: 0777 5677 796
angie.hynohelp@hotmail.co.uk www.hypnohelp.co
Wishing all our clients peace of mind this Christmas
Call: 01525 378177
info@ommlaw.co.uk
www.ommlaw.co.uk
Offices in Milton Keynes & Leighton Buzzard
Authorised and regulated by the SRA, No: 00058549
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Š 2013 Osborne Morris and Morgan Solicitors