Sunbury Matters December 2022

The festive season will be well and truly upon us by the time you get your December Sunbury Matters. We hope you have a happy family time. Isn’t our front cover just delightful? This is Clara and you can read her story on p10. She is a real little Christmas miracle. Enjoy the local Christmas events coming up; Nauticalia’s Christmas on the 3rd, the Sunbury Christmas market on 8th and Waterside Wonderland on 9th/11th and 16th/18th . If you are looking for gifts then think about giving local. Gift vouchers from the shops, or local theatres perhaps. And enjoy the various concerts and pantomimes which are on locally, to get you in the

Christmas mood. There are plenty to choose from if you look at the Culture and Community sections in the back of this magazine. If you are volunteering on Christmas day, then you are giving the best gift you can time and company to those who need you. Thank you!

Christmas market needs help 7 Avenue Parade Safety 8 A Miracle at Christmas 10 Looking & Feeling good @VivaldiPro 15 LOSRA’s Achievements at 50 16/17 Red Tape mars community events 18 Sunbury’s Champion Tree 22 Shahin is Best South East Curry House 24 Spelthorne Business Winners 26 Avian Flu. What can we do? 28 Notes from the Riverside 31 Recipe of the Month 34 Spotlight on Riverview Lodge 37 St Mary’s Newsletter 41

Of things “on Thames” 43 ScamWatch 45

Sunbury Health Centre roundup 48 Sunbury Beat 52 Culture Corner/Community Matters 54/59 Gardening Matters 61 Ad Index/Prices/Deadlines 62

Sunbury’s Christmas Past

By Nick Pollard

With the Christmas season upon us (although to be honest it seems to have started about August), I thought I would look out some snippets of news about Christmas in Sunbury over the years. In 1895 it was reported that Sunbury was the last station locally to carry on the old London and South Western Railway tradition of decorating the buildings with a beautiful display of evergreens. The porters had done their best to brighten up the rooms and platforms, whilst the footbridge over the line was surmounted with ‘A Merry Christmas to All ’ worked in holly leaves. A tradition that has sadly died out now, although I suppose the recent equivalent was the replacement of local station names on the digital destination boards with their Christmas-themed equivalents, such as ‘Upper Hollyford’, ‘Shepherds Town’ and ‘Three Kings-ton’.

In 1909 the children of the St. Saviour ’s Sunday School were entertained at a party in the Pretoria Hall in the Staines Road (it used to stand on the corner of Green Lane). Tea was served at 6pm followed by the pulling of crackers. The gathering was photographed from the stage by a Dr Thompson, after which Santa appeared on stage laden with four sacks of presents. Sadly the article printed a real spoiler in naming Mr Salomonsen as donning the costume and whiskers, although his ‘venerable and realistic appearance’ was apparently greeted by wild applause from his young audience (nothing to do with the presents then?). As soon as every child and teacher had received a present, Dr Thompson returned with a magic lantern slide show, in which the animated ‘man swallowing rats’ was a slightly alarming highlight! The indefatigable Mr Salomonsen then returned in the guise of a conjuror, in which he ‘even surpassed his previous efforts in the role of Father Christmas’, and ‘the marvellous way he shot a handkerchief into a candle after previ-

The interior of Pretoria Hall

ously hatching it from an egg incubated in the hand puzzled everyone ’. It certainly puzzles me! They just don’t make entertainment like that these days, do they?

At Christmas 1916, during the First World War, thoughts turned to the men who were separated from their families. A concert was held at the schoolroom of the Congregational Church, at the rear of the church in Rooksmead Road (it was actually the old ‘tin church’ relocated from its former site on the corner of School Walk). A substantial amount was raised, with the object of sending a New Year’s gift to the 16 men from the congregation who were serving in the forces.

The Sunbury and Shepperton Local History Society will have a display at the Sunbury Xmas Market on 8 th Dec and at Big Tree Night in Shepperton on 14 th Dec. Do come and see us and perhaps buy one of our books -they make lovely Xmas presents!

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Sunbury Christmas Market

Can you help?

Thanks to the core team of volunteers, all who are running their own businesses, but who have worked tirelessly to make sure you can have a moment of cheer at the Sunbury Christmas market this year. It takes place on T hursday December 8th and it will run from 5-8pm. Thanks to John Carey, head elf, who has worked so hard to make this happen. Ably assisting him, Monica Jones (yes, me) and Dennis van Wonderen. We must give a big shout out to Paul Underwood of Platinum Roofing, who has again taken on the task of putting up lights to bring some festive cheer. We must also thanks Buddhi Weerasinghe of Surrey County Council for the members contribution to pay for new lights. On the day itself there will be a lot of additional volunteers making it run smoothly but we can always use more! Please contact Dennis if you can help. Call 01932 761071 or email dennis@vwflowers.co.uk. Or of course just pop in to the shop on Avenue Parade. We need marshals and general helpers for the day itself. In future years we would welcome more help in the lead up to the event. Come and get involved in Sunbury ’s BEST event of the year! Let Dennis know you would like to get involved. The Avenue will be closed from 3 -9pm. The Salvation Army will once more be coming. Do please support them. Proceeds from stall sales will go towards village projects. The beautiful flowering baskets around the village which you enjoy are largely funded through funds from the LSBC.

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Avenue Parade Safety

It was shocking to see another serious accident in Avenue Parade last month. Once more a car mounted the pavement and smashed through a shop window. Whereas last time it happened on a quiet bank holiday when shops were closed, this time it was during prime shopping time. Laura’s hair dressers was full of clients and staff. There were several injuries and two members of staff were taken to hospital, one with head injuries. The longer lasting effect on the mental health of those who were there is anyone ’s guess. It is devastating to be in a place you consider safe and experience such a shock. Social media went crazy about the incident. Suggestions of barriers in front of the parking bays were greeted with derision by some, and enthusiasm by others. Needless to say, everyone had their opinion. As usual many were vocal about their opinion of the driver of the vehicle.

Social media can be very cruel.

Surrey County Councillor Buddhi Weerasinghe has been approached by many residents and has been in consultation with the shop keepers about what measures can be put in place. His response to locals is seen below. Do get in touch with him if you have anything to add.

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April 2021 above. Dec 2022 below

A Miracle at Christmas?

Meet little Clara, our December cover girl. She is the great granddaughter of David Young who provides you with updates on the Riverside Arts Centre ’s activities every month in Sunbury Matters.

Clara was born 2 months prematurely, and she and her mother spent 6 months in hospital where Clara had a series of operations and transfusions . On several occasions she was not expected to survive. Acacia and Dean, her parents, received so much help at the John Ratcliffe hospital in Oxford, but felt that some of the little extras to make life more tolerable were missing. Attention is rightly concentrated on the sick infant, but the trauma for the parents cannot be under estimated. To carry on a life of work and caring for siblings, who often have to take very much a back -seat, almost amounting to neglect, whilst short of sleep and proper meals whilst desperately concerned for their sick child was difficult in the extreme. Consequently they formed a charity CJ ‘s Mission, to fill some holes in the support to young parents. CJ ’s Mission supports families with a child in hospital across the Thames Valley. They will help with home comforts, food and care for the families of the sick child. You can read about some of their work and aims at www.cjsmission.org/home Clara celebrates her 5th birthday this December and is in her first term at school. She really is a Christmas miracle. To all appearances she is a normal exuberant and intelligent child but has permanent medical issues. We wish Clara a happy 5th birthday.

Looking & Feeling Good at VivaldiPro

By Monica Jones

Elbek is back, front of house at VivaldiPro on Avenue Parade. He has had an exciting year. He got married, took some time to travel with his new bride and took up a personal challenge. He set out to win a bodybuilding title...and he did just that!

Always one for health and fitness, he has definitely taken his passion one stage further. He was crowned top natural bodybuilder in the UK this summer and is currently in 10th position in the world. His attitude is that anything is possible, as long as you have the right mindset. He has the determination and drive to achieve his goals in life and in business.

This is Elbek as you have never seen him before!!

VivaldiPro has always been about making the most of yourself. The bespoke suits and smart shoes have made many a perfect groom and well turned out gentlemen. Check out his Instagram feed (@vivaldipro) to get the sense of the classic look with a modern approach which he has fine tuned. Fabrics are wool or merino and made to measure for a fraction of the price you would pay in London’s Jermyn Street. This makes style accessible. If you are looking for something daring, glitzy and beaded, you will find that look too!

But looking good outside is only half the story. Elbek’s approach is that you need to look good (and feel good) inside too. With that in mind his next project is a vitamin and supplement business, which will be in the little shop at 57 Thames Street where he currently has his women’s wear. “There are plenty of gyms in the area ” he says “but when it comes to health supplements, particularly for the bodybuilding world, there is little if anything”. Elbek is a qualified pharmacist, so this additional business is something he is very comfortable with. He intends opening before Christmas.

Ladies, if you are wanting to snap up a glitzy outfit for the party season, Vivaldi Pro Womenswear has stock for sale at a fraction of the ticket price. Ask for more details at Vivaldi Pro and have a look at his stock.

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History and Achievements as LOSRA Celebrates 50th

Thanks to all those who were able to attend our 50th celebration at Sunbury Cricket Club on 20th October. It was a most enjoyable evening attended by over 100 residents. The Lower Sunbury Residents' Association (LOSRA) was founded in 1972 by Messrs David Martin and the late Frank Burman. Frank, who died in 2005, was a real stalwart and was largely responsible for creating the influential profile of LOSRA which the present Committee seeks to maintain today, with its commitment to environmental and amenity issues.

The issue upon which the Association was founded was the proposal to build a by-pass taking all manner of heavy traffic away from Thames Street but directly through the main residential area of Lower Sunbury. The proposed scheme, known as TP26, was fiercely opposed by LOSRA and ultimately abandoned. It is now the landmark linear Hawke Park which runs between Oakington Drive across French Street; and The Avenue to Green Street. The Association was intimately involved during the design phase of what is now recognised as a much valued asset for Lower Sunbury. The Association did not of course ignore the impact of heavy traffic in Thames Street and lobbied for the now well

established weight restrictions to remove heavy lorries. In addition, the Association put forward a blueprint for traffic calming measures which, together with a 20 mph speed limit, was largely adopted in the road architecture that exists today.

Since then LOSRA has:

• played the major part in the successful campaign to achieve the abandonment of the Heathrow - Gatwick helicopter link. The link involved 24 flights per day at low height and directly over Lower Sunbury. The noise and vibration of the very large twin -engined, tandem rotor, aircraft was deeply intrusive. The Association gave evidence at two inquiries held by the Civil Aviation Authority and were recognised by the CAA as the most effective residents' association to be affected along the flight path;

• played a major role in promoting the case for a Conservation Area plan and produced its own blueprint, which was an important influence in achieving a comprehensive and definitive official Plan;

• vigorously opposed the plan for a major building development on the unspoilt Rivermead Island, actively pursuing alternative sites. The Scheme was abandoned;

• consistently campaigned for Orchard Meadow to be acquired for use as a village green in the Conservation Area. The idea was supported by two Government inspectors at official public inquiries and was eventually adopted by Spelthorne Borough Council. The Meadow is now a marvellous addition to the townscape;

• a long history of working hard, and ap- Hawke Park, otherwise knowns as TP26

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a key part of the Green from

• assisted in the formation of the Patients' Participation Group at the Sunbury Health Centre to work with clinicians for improved facilities and service;

into the area in vast numbers and for many years to come. This work continues today;

• as part of the Conservation Area Plan implementation, devised and promoted the idea of the Sunbury Trail and produced the official Trail Guidebook;

• given financial support to the Walled Garden project and consistently supported the Spelthorne in Bloom initiative;

• opposed the Council's original decision to demolish the Benwell Community Centre and successfully campaigned for the integration of the new community centre within the replacement building of Mitchison Court on Downside;

• supported individuals and groups within the Area in their successful opposition to the over-development of sites at Park Avenue (Old London Irish RFC site from 300+ proposed units to 194), Lendy Place, Green Street (reduced from 57 to 27 units) the old Environment Agency Works on Fordbridge Road (reduced from 88 to 37 units);

• continued successfully to oppose developments on the Green Belt, most notably at Kempton Park;

• with the help of sponsors, commissioned a feasibility study together with a statement of community involvement for the construction of a cycle/footbridge to connect Sunbury to the Thames Path National Trail at Walton. The project has in principle been supported by SCC, Spelthorne and Elmbridge Councils, been represented on the Council's River Thames Task Group which led to one of our Committee members undertaking the ferry project and, through the recruitment of 40 volunteers, making it such a success during the spring and summer months.

More generally, whilst the Association has often had to resist unwelcome developments or policies which are considered to be unfriendly to the Lower Sunbury area, it also works closely and constructively with the local Council, ward councillors, Surrey County Council, the Police and other bodies; on issues of mutual interest. The Association has made substantial contributions to successive Local Plans and related Public Inquiries, successfully influencing the content of Plans and Inspector's decisions.

If you have not already done so, please join us for a meagre £5 pa membership (unchanged for 17 years!). You can do this by visiting: www.losra.org to use the trouble-free facility on the Home Page.

Red Tape and ‘Process’ mars community events

Has health and safety gone too far?

It is certainly getting harder to put on community events than it has ever been before; This year the parade for Remembrance Day in Sunbury was in jeopardy because the council did not want roads closed. The fantastic jubilee event this summer was almost scuppered because of the number of hoops we were told to jump through by various parties. We were very close to giving up. The same arduous challenges have come the way of Christmas events. We have been running the Sunbury Christmas market for 14 years without a hitch, but this year, red tape has been much in evidence (and I am not talking about the stuff we wrap presents with!). In Shepperton, one of the draws of the Big Tree Night has been seeing Santa riding down the high street on his sleigh drawn by reindeer. Winners of the poster competition have accompanied him as their prize and it has been the highlight of their Christmas. But this year Santa has been told his reindeer can be put in a pen by the village hall and neither Santa nor children are allowed to be drawn on the sleigh.

It is a shame when a community events like these, which have run so smoothly for years, becomes a stressful thing to organise because ‘procedure’ which the council has insisted on.

Of course we want people to stay safe, but we feel too much is being demanded of us. Events are run by volunteers, often local business people who have challenging times themselves. If it continues to prove so challenging (and more expensive as we need to put more safety and insurance in place), then we risk volunteers throwing in the towel and the community events which are such an important part of where we live, will cease. We need to encourage events such as these, not discourage volunteers from putting them on because it is too difficult! What I would like for Christmas is less process’ and red tape please.

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Sunbury Park’s Champion Tree

Phil Cribb & John Maxen, Friends of Sunbury Park

Champion Trees are the largest and tallest trees of their species in Britain and are recorded in the Tree Register of Britain and Ireland (TROBI). The register is summarised in Owen Johnson’s Champion Trees of Britain and Ireland (ed. 2, 2011. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. ISBN 978 1 84246 452 6). Amazingly, Sunbury Park has a champion tree of its own, an evergreen oak called Encina or Coastal Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), a native of California where it is found growing from Mendonciño in the north to Baja in the south. The Park’s tree is the tallest specimen in Britain and measures 17 m tall with a diameter of 80 cm at chest height. It grows just outside the south-west corner of the Walled Garden and right behind the Embroidery Gallery. Its grey trunk resembles an elephant ’s foot while its evergreen elliptic leaves are somewhat convex, have a finely toothed margin and are glossy green above and paler below. When young they sport hairs near the veins on the underside. Its acorns, which are rarely produced in Britain, differ from those of the Holm Oak in that

they taper towards their tips The dry summer suited it well, providing a climate similar to that found in coastal California where it is now an increasingly rare tree. This unusual tree is rarely planted in this country despite having been introduced in 1843 from California. We suspect that it may have originated from the famous tree nursery at Coombe Hill, Kingston of Messrs James Veitch & Sons, who introduced so many rare trees and shrubs to this country. Although sold off for housing early in the 20 th century, many of Veitch’s original plantings survive on the Coombe Hill estate to the present day. Two other champion trees are listed in Spelthorne by Johnson. The most striking is the largest of the several Caucasian Elm trees (Zelkova caucasica ) in Halliford Park (photo above). It is 31 m tall and has a diameter of 162 cm at chest height. The other champion is much smaller, a Tamarisk ( Tamarix gallica) at 6m tall in a front garden in Loudwater Close in lower Sunbury. Sadly, the last seems to have disappeared since it was last measured.

The Shahin is Best in South East

It won’t surprise many of you regulars out there that The Shahin has once more been victorious at the National Curry Awards 2022. This year it got Restaurant of the Year South East title and was chosen from thousands of eateries in the annual awards which recognise the Asian catering industry and highlights the creative and talented chefs in the business. The winners were announced at the end of October but the awards themselves are not until December 12th, when Shubin Haque will return from a glittering event at the House of Lords with his trophy to be put on display.

The Shahin in Thames Street first opened its doors in 1965. It offers customers a fine dining experience serving dishes influenced from the kitchens of renowned chefs from the Indian and Bengal regions.

The winners of this year's awards represent the best that can be achieved through dedication to catering delectable cuisine and to providing first -class customer service.

Ahchanul Haque, owner of The Shahin, said: " It feels great to have won and it was a surprise. My team are doing the best job and we have been here since 1965. "I have been here since we started and we have four chefs in the kitchen and two helpers. Since the pandemic, our customers are supporting us very well. We have the best onion bhajis in the area. The Shahin is not like every curry house, it is different. We make

our own spices in the restaurant and we are proud of our naga chilli."

But times are hard in the catering industry. Over recent years, with the shadow of Covid and the current cost of living crisis, the industry has witnessed a sharp decline. There has been a shortage of skilled workers and a lack of investment in training. Consequently, the National Curry Awards aim to help further encourage new generations to become excited and involved within the industry. We must do our bit and continue to support our local restaurants. We can’t take them for granted.

Shubin with just a sample of the range of award winning food on offer at The Shahin

Sunbury Ferry Best in Spelthorne!

A huge congratulations to the Sunbury Ferry who has just won Best Business in Spelthorne at the Spelthorne Business Awards. Run by volunteers, and using an electric powered ferry, it has opened up the possibility of crossing the river into Lower Sunbury from the Walton bank. It takes bikes and dogs and allows us access to the river path, the pubs and the sports centre. The Ferry also won Sustainable Business of the Year and the Corporate Social Responsibility Award.

Congratulations also to The Sassy Apron who won Best in Sunbury and New Start up of the Year. Other winners were as follows:

Best Business in the Staines upon Thames BID Area : Le Mare Design Ltd ( Best Business in Staines upon Thames & Laleham: Taste Creative Best Business in Sunbury & Halliford: The Sassy Apron

Best Business in Ashford & Stanwell: Timeless IT Business Ltd

Best Business in Shepperton & Charlton Village: Fresh Gym

Exporter of the Year: Brown Bag Crisps

Creative / Innovative Business of the Year: Zest4 TV Limited

Construction and Property Business of the Year: Educational Play Environments Ltd

Healthy Business Award: Punjabi Veggie Box

Franchise of the Year: Guardian Angel Carers

Small Business of the Year: Taste Creative Well done to you all!

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Avian Influenza. What can we do?

The Avian Influenza is a major problem countrywide and is present all along the Thames. It is a notifiable disease in poultry and other captive birds, but swans seem to be particularly badly hit. We asked the Shepperton Swan Sanctuary for advise to pass on. They told us “We are following the advice given by DEFRA, which can be found on their website. www.gov.uk/guidance/avan-influenza-bird-flu Any dead birds should be reported to DEFRA on 03459 335577. In addition Spelthorne neighbourhood services can be contacted for removal of dead bodies on 01784 446411”. You are specifically told not to pick up dead birds. Bird flu is apparently not a problem amongst wild words although DEFRA do suggest reporting findings of dead wild birds which they can test to add to research about the spread of the disease.

Dead swan on the Thames

The Swan Santuary are also in contact with the King’s Swan Marker to discuss what advice may be given about wild birds, particularly swans ( info@royalswan.co.uk) or 01628 523030.

Due to the rules in place at the moment the Swan Sanctuary cannot take in patients. It would be too risky to do so as they do not wish to get bird flu on site. It is heart -breaking to see so many birds dying and not being able to do anything about it.

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Notes from the Riverside

In the bleak mid-winter, with the days short, interminable rain and drizzle, cold nights and dreary days, since prehistoric days man has tried to cheer themselves up with various forms of winter festivals. Also to celebrate the start of the lengthening of the days and the hope that the sun which had disappeared from their lives might one day return. After two bleak years of Covid restrictions we are into yet another winter when the need to be cheered up is paramount and that is when the Arts can do so much.

In December at Riverside, we start with one of the happiest films of recent times, “Love Actually” with Hugh Grant as the best Prime Minister we never had. Happiness is very much in the music provided by firstly Riverside Jazz in their Christmas special, then the troubadour songs of Alistair Sherwood and finally, the colour and razzmatazz of Zodiac ’s song and dance in Christmas Bells. Victor Hugo wrote that “laughter is sunshine that chases winter from the human face” so apart from our usual Laughing Chili events, the youngsters of Riverside Youth Theatre will be staging “Clue”. This is a comedy thriller adaption of the board game Cluedo. Combine the laughter, the music, the colour, the dance and the feel-good feeling and you have the recipe for panto, which will be served up to you in January in “Cinderella - the other slipper". A pantomime is associated with happiness but if you delve into the history of panto you will find a much darker side. Quintessentially British, the origins date right back to the middle ages, drawing inspiration from the traditions of the Italian "Commedia dell'Arte" comedy shows and Greek morality plays, where the whole story was of good fighting against evil. The baddie always enters from the right side of the stage as you view it from the audience, or the left side from the actors' point of view. (Incidentally the Italian word for left is “sinister’’). A battle which, of course, good had to win and is reflected in the modern tales of seemingly dark days of despair and defeat, love conquers all, the villain is defeated, and everyone lives happily ever after. And that is what we wish for you; a joyous Christmas with those you love and “to live happy ever after” throughout 2023.

Your doorway to Arts & Entertainment

Drama, poetry, literature, dance, pottery, ballet, jazz, keep-fit, flower arranging, Pilates, yoga, cinema, children’s dance

Riverside Arts Centre

57/59 Thames Street Sunbury TW16 5QF www.riversidearts.co.uk 07796 531427 info@riversidearts.co.uk registered charity 272929

Quiz nights, classical concerts, comedy, youth drama, painting, musical tuition, licensed bar, meeting rooms, air -conditioned performance areas

The last few months have been a very unsettling and stressful time for many with the rising cost of living, the many changes within our country and events across the world. So, let’s all take time to enjoy the Christmas period with our families and friends. For some light relief, here are some after dinner brain teasers to test your general knowledge, combined with a few festive facts.

Q1. Where did the tradition of the Christmas stocking come from?

Hanging stockings out comes from the Dutch custom of leaving shoes packed with food for St Nicholas’s donkeys. He would leave small gifts in return.

Fact: According to tradition, you should eat one mince pie on each of the 12 days of Christmas to bring good luck.

Q2. Where did the tradition of putting tangerines in stockings come from?

The tradition came from 12th-century French nuns who left socks full of fruit, nuts and tangerines at the houses of the poor.

Fact: It’s technically illegal to eat mince pies on Christmas Day in England. In the 17th century, Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas pudding, mince pies and anything to do with gluttony. The law has never been rescinded.

Q3. When did Shepperton Studios first open for business?

The studio facility opened for business in 1932 as the base of Flicker Productions, which produced popular ‘flick’ books of photographs. Mr Loudon had his sights set on full feature film production.

Fact: Christmas pudding was originally a soup made with raisins and wine.

Q4. Which estate agent sold more houses in Shepperton this year than any other agent?

According to data on Rightmove.com between 1/1/22 to 11/11/22, out of 14 estate agents that have sold 201 properties within TW17, Curchods have sold 47.8% making them the market leader.

Fact: For a Christmas to be officially classified as “white” a single snowflake needs to be observed falling in the 24 hours of 25th December on the rooftop of the Met Office HQ in London.

Q5. A log burner creates a cheery festive focal point to a room. What certification is required?

A HETAS certificate is required under Building Regulations for the installation of a log burner/multi fuel stove.

Q6. How did Boxing Day get its name?

Boxing Day gets its name from all the

A Little Light Relief In Time For Christmas

money collected in church alms boxes for the poor.

Q7. Who invented the Christmas cracker?

The Christmas cracker was invented by a London sweet shop owner called Tom Smith. In 1847, after spotting French bonbons wrapped in paper with a twist at each end, he sold similar sweets with a “love motto” inside. He then included a little trinket and a “bang”. His “Bangs of Expectation” included gifts such as jewellery and miniature dolls. By 1900, he was selling 13 million a year.

Q8. How many offices do Curchods and their sister company Burns & Webber have?

Curchods and Burns & Webber are a privately owned family business with 24 offices, stretching from south west London to the Surrey/Hampshire border.

Fact: Mistletoe (Viscum album) is from the Anglo-Saxon word misteltan, which means “little dung twig” because the plant spreads through bird droppings.

Q9. A steel beam, known as an RSJ is used to provide structural support in a building. What does RSJ stand for?

Rolled Steel Joist.

Q10. Where does the word pantomime come from?

The word pantomime derives from the ancient Greek where a pantomimus, the ‘imitator of all’ was a dancer who played multiple roles within the same production, expressing himself only through movement to the music and telling classic tales from mythology or the ancient writers.

Q11. Did The Queen ever miss a Christmas speech?

In 1969 there was no Christmas Speech as a special documentary The Royal Family had been made during the summer in connection with the Investiture of the Prince of Wales.

Q12. Have any Christmas films been made at Shepperton Studios?

1970 Scrooge; 1992 The Muppet Christmas Carol; 2003 Love Actually.

My team and I wish you a very merry Christmas, a prosperous new year and look forward to helping you with your move in 2023.

For friendly professional advice on all property matters please contact Owen Miles, Partner and his team at Curchods.

Recipe of the Month

Festive Terrine

Preparation time: 30 mins

Cooking time: 2 hours plus chilling time Serves: 8

Ingredients

1 tbsp. olive oil, plus extra to brush

1 onion, finely chopped 2 tbsp. brandy, (optional)

12 rashers smoked streaky bacon (optional)

2 skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces (about 1cm)

500g minced pork or turkey.

50g frozen peas OR 50g roughly chopped pistachios OR 50g chopped walnuts

50g dried cranberries OR 50g chopped dried apricots OR 50g chopped dried prunes

¾ tsp freshly grated nutmeg leaves from two sprigs of fresh thyme. Plenty of seasoning.

Method

Cook the onion gently for 10 minutes until softened and translucent. Pour in the brandy if using and cook for 30 seconds. Empty the onions into a large bowl and allow to cool. Preheat oven to 180°C / 160°C fan / Gas mark

4. If using the bacon, line a 2lb loaf tin with 10 of the rashers making sure you leave part of the rashers hanging over the edge of the tin. To the cooled onion in the bowl, add the chopped chicken, minced pork or turkey, and the rest of the chosen ingredients, with the thyme leaves, nutmeg, and a generous amount of seasoning. Mix thoroughly.

Press the resulting mixture into the loaf tin, levelling off the surface. If you're using bacon fold the overhanging rashers over the filling. and cover with the remaining rashers. Press down again. Cover the top with a lightly oiled sheet of cooking foil and press this down on

top of the loaf tin. Then wrap the tin securely in a double layer of foil and place into a roasting tin.

Boil the kettle then half-fill the roasting tin with boiling water and carefully transfer to the oven. Cook for 90 minutes until the terrine feels solid when the top is pressed. Lift tin out of the water, remove the outer layers of foil, leaving only the greased foil layer in place. Then carefully pour out any liquid from the terrine to prevent it setting as jelly. Leave to cool. Place a weight on top of the foil layer (tins of beans or even a house brick will do) and chill overnight.

Remove the terrine from the fridge and release it from the tin a couple of hours before serving, to allow it to come to room temperature. Slice and serve with chutneys and warm crusty bread.

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Spotlight On River View Lodge with Stunning Shepperton Views

Churchill Retirement Living ’s River View Lodge is located in the picturesque riverside town of Shepperton making it a perfect spot for over 60s to settle down and enjoy an independent retirement. With 4 homes remaining, Churchill is shining a spotlight on its apartments as it showcases the best of Churchill and Shepperton with stunning river views.

Plot 21 sits on the top floor of the lodge and features two spacious bedrooms, with an en suite and walk in wardrobe attached to the main bedroom. The main hallway connects the two bedrooms to the bright and airy living room and kitchen area, with multiple storage spaces built in throughout the apartment, making it a practical living space. Big white double doors in the living room lead off to the patio balcony and overlooks the River Thames as well as showing off the beauty of Shepperton. The generous apartment offers a great space for retirees to settle down and encourages an independent lifestyle, with the local area giving plenty to do and explore. River View Lodge comprises of a collection of 22 one- and two-bedroom apartments and boasts a secure camera entry system, free parking, and 24-hour careline support. The lodge includes a guest suite, offering a space dedicated for visiting family and friends, as well as a landscaped garden with extra seating. Owners will also benefit from a communal Owners’ lounge with a coffee bar and a Lodge Manager to call on from Monday to Friday to help with any needs. The charming town of Shepperton makes the perfect space for retirement with plenty of exciting amenities nearby. The lodge is just minutes away from the traditional high street filled with a choice of restaurants, cafes, and shops – with various supermarkets also surrounding the local area. For nature and histo-

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ry lovers, Shepperton is filled with idyllic sites including the Thames Path National Trail and Church Square conservation area with some buildings dating back to the 1600s. Additionally, there is the local Longacres Garden Centre not far from the lodge with plenty of plants there to fill up the balconies back at the apartments. Shepperton is also home to Shepperton Recreation Ground and Shepperton Studios that filmed many famous films including Oliver, Alien and Oscar -winning Hugo with regular famous visitors.

For travellers, Shepperton Train Station is not far from River View Lodge and offers regular journeys to London and Guildford, as well as Shepperton having a regular bus service getting owners around the town.

Anne Scherrer, Regional Marketing Manager at Churchill Retirement Living South-East, said: “Plot 21 at River View Lodge showcases just the type of apartments on offer at River View Lodge, with many homes enjoying the riverside view.

“

We are currently offering an experience apartment at the lodge allowing interested house hunters to try before they buy, meet the Lodge manager and other Owners, to really get a feel for the development, discuss all things Churchill Retirement Living and discover the comfortable lifestyle they could live at River View Lodge.”

For more information on River View Lodge or Plot 21, visit www.churchillretirement.co.uk or call 01932 800341.

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Trade Membership*

You qualify for Trade Membership if you are a bona fide business owner or manager, or are self employed. To join Costco and start saving please provide one piece of business evidence which is valid or dated within the last 3 months, plus 1 piece of photographic identification. Please call for details of accepted documentation. The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £22 ex VAT (£26.40 inc VAT).

Individual Membership*

You qualify for Individual Membership if you belong to specific employment groups – please visit www. costco.co.uk/join for details of qualifying categories. To join Costco and start saving please provide your employee ID card or current pay slip to prove your employment, PLUS one piece of photographic identification. The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership is £28 ex VAT (£33.60 inc VAT).

WHAT IS COSTCO?

Costco Wholesale operates an international chain of Costco membership warehouses which carry quality, brand name and related private label merchandise at substantially lower prices than are typically found at conventional wholesale or retail sources. The warehouses are designed to help small to medium sized businesses reduce their costs in purchasing for re-sale and for everyday business use. Individuals are also allowed to purchase for their personal needs.

Costco warehouses offer one of the largest and most exclusive product category selections to be found under one roof. Categories include groceries, confectionery, appliances, television and audio equipment, automotive supplies, tyres, toys, hardware, sporting goods, jewellery, watches, cameras, books, housewares, apparel, health and beauty aids, furniture, office supplies and office equipment. Costco is renowned for offering top quality national and regional brands, with 100% satisfaction guaranteed to its members at prices consistently below traditional wholesale or retail outlets.

Costco also offers a range of quality products under its own Kirkland Signature™ private label. The company takes great care in selecting products which are guaranteed to be of equal or better quality than the leading name brand. The Kirkland Signature label currently features on over 300 products, from housewares and pet food to clothing and confectionery.

Costco is only open to members who pay an annual fee. There are two types of membership - Trade and Individual. Trade members qualify by owning or managing a business. Individual members qualify by being employed in or retired in specific employment groups.

Double Guarantee

We are committed to offering the best value to our members, with a risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee on both your membership and merchandise:

On Merchandise: We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with full refund*.

On Membership: We will refund your membership fee in full at any time if you are dissatisfied. *Exceptions apply. See in warehouse for details.

www.costco.co.uk/join.

Of things

on Thames

By Andrew Lansdale

What makes Sunbury special to me is the ‘onThames’ appellation. It makes the town special because it is an immovable boundary along one quarter of it. And the river Thames is an important waterway. When it tumbles over the weirs the water is aerated, which provides oxygen for the fish of which there are some 125 different species in the river. But to be fair, this figure does include the tidal Thames below Teddington Lock. Even so, it is a magnet for local anglers. There are many places along the bank to sit and relax and watch the river meander past, including two Lower Sunbury pubs. In former centuries the river was of course, an important part of trade before motorised road transport took over. The towpaths on the opposite side of the river from Sunbury were integral to a horse-drawn armada of barges which took cargoes from London to large areas of the country.

Trade, in the sense of shipping, made London the most important city in the world and its river, ‘our river’, a vital artery. Ocean going ships used to discharge their cargoes into warehouses up as far as London Bridge. There were also docks into which ships had to be ‘locked’. The most important were the Royal Docks; the Royal Albert, the Royal Victoria and the King George V. These were the largest enclosed cargo handling areas in the world with some 250 acres of water and more than two miles of wharfage. But in the 1970s, containerisation and economies of scale forced shipowners to build ever larger ships. Thus vessels used the upper reaches of the river less and led to the Port of London Authority (PLA) closing docks with iconic names such as the East India, St. Katherine, the West India and the Tobacco Dock as well as the Royal Docks. If one travels down the Thames from London Bridge, the banks are lined with warehouses which have now been

converted into offices and apartments. The area between the Royal Albert and the Royal Victoria docks is now the runway for the London City Airport. And Canary Wharf was as its name implies.

Tilbury dock was developed as a container port but increasing sizes of ship made this more of a staging post where ‘feeder’ ships berthed. The Shell oil refineries at Shellhaven and Thameshaven were closed and converted to container handling, but even though these berths were used by huge tankers, those facilities have now proven too small.

To put this into perspective, the initial container ships, which replaced some five traditional cargo ships in terms of cargo capacity, were able to load some 1,500 containers. The largest box ship today has the ability to load some 22,000 containers. Laid end to end, they would stretch from London to Dover. And so with our population seeing fewer and fewer ships, the shipping industry has somewhat fallen off people’s radar. But some analysts suggest that 90% of products on our supermarket shelves are shipped in by sea. Sadly not into our beautiful river Thames nowadays. But I do believe that the Thames used to be the world’s greatest river and it definitely forged the path for others to follow.

(Andrew has worked in the shipping industry since 1960 and lives in Sunbury)

ScamWatch

By Bill Cunningham Merry Berries

Tis the season to be merry and bright again and, who knows, just possibly over spend (and over eat).

It’s also the busiest time of the year for scammers and they are anticipating our largesse when buying for ourself and for our loved ones. When we buy online we should only go direct to the well -known named sites, not by following pop-ups, and not to sites notified in emails and texts to us, especially from a stranger. As always, buying by credit card offers a bit more protection if the purchase goes really sour. Bank transfers to a private account of a seller new to us is fraught with danger. Best avoided! Topical are money saving devices, like the high demand / popular air fryers. So the bad guys know this too of course. We should beware too the unjustified claims made on plug in electrical devices that can lower energy bills. Treat them with caution

We’ve had Black Friday, Black November and most likely some carried forward Black December too deals to tempt us. Just in case we ’ve any of our hard -earned cash left for more buying. Extra care is needed when buying what we cannot touch. “Phantom goods” scams involve fraudsters advertising items at cut prices on social media sites. They will also post fake customer reviews to give the impression of a reputable trader. We should get to know our seller. For getting poor quick is easier than getting rich quick. Let ’s plan for a carefree and merry festive season.

Sunbury Health Centre News

A roadmap to accessing the help you need from Sunbury Health Centre

Sunbury Health Centre is continuing to develop a multi-disciplinary team broadening the range of clinicians in addition to GPs. Examples of support that can be delivered to patients by other health professionals include blood tests, routine medication, diabetes and asthma reviews. It is in this context that the Health Centre provides a multi -disciplinary team which, in addition to ten GPs, includes advanced nurse practitioners, paramedics, clinical pharmacists, trainee GPs and a nursing and phlebotomy team. Other allied health professionals including mental health practitioners and social prescribers are planned for early next year.

Appointments can be requested from 8am5:30pm Monday to Friday by completing an online form which can be found on the practice website – [http:// www.sunburyhealthcentre.nhs.uk], if you do not have access to the internet, you can call reception between 8am and 6pm where a member of the team can complete the online form for you.

Information from the form is used to triage your request and ensure you are guided to the most appropriate health professional for your needs.

The website opening hours [8am-5:30pm] ensures the timely and efficient processing of requests during working hours to avoid the inevitable backlogs which would occur if requests were made outside of these core working hours.

Extended Access

Appointments can be accessed six days a week thanks to linking with the NICS Federation who provides extended access appoint-

ments to North West Surrey GP practices. The health centre has access to a quota of evening and Saturday appointments provided at Ashford or St Peter ’s Hospitals that are triaged and booked by the Sunbury team. In addition for less serious issues such as acne, bites, stings, blisters, mouth ulcers and sore throats, the Practice is able to book patients’ appointments at local pharmacies.

Sunbury Health Centre Core Patient Participation Group

Hypnotherapy

Dr Glyn Chapman

With over 30 years experience using hypnosis in my GP work I am now available for face to face hypnotherapy sessions

My experience includes treating phobias such as fear of flying, public speaking anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, sport and musical performance improvement, psychosomatic symptom relief, habit breaking, smoking cessation, weight control, pain management and general wellbeing

To find out more: call 07511 508135 or email ccrhypnosis@gmail.com

Please mention Sunbury Matters when responding to adverts www.villagematters.co.uk

New Theatre in Weybridge

Great news! Another theatre is opening in our area, this time in Weybridge. The Weybridge Theatre will be under the management of Swift Entertainment Venues (SEV). SEV is the driving force behind Esher Theatre which has taken the local theatre and arts scene by storm, bringing national performers and shows to Esher, as well as supporting local talent. Esher Theatre is now host to a range of talent from comedians to musicians and tribute bands. Next up is their pantomime, Aladdin. (To find out what else is going on at Esher Theatre and to book, go to https:// www.eshertheatre.com)

Weybridge Hall is situated on Weybridge High Street. Previously a cinema operator had expressed interest in taking the property on, but the COVID pandemic muted all such interest and as the local economy re -establishes itself post COVID, the future of Weybridge Hall had yet to be determined - until now. This autumn, Elmbridge Council agreed that Weybridge Hall should be transformed into a theatre and arts centre, through the sale of the hall at a competitive market price to Swift Entertainment Venues (SEV), with an option agreement for up to 18 months. A restrictive covenant will be applied so that the building can only be used as a theatre and/or arts centre. A significant SEV investment will be put into the building to provide an energising and inclusive arts and live entertainment facility. This will be a true community asset including dance and recording studios, as well as a venue for live performance. weybridgetheatre.com

Sunbury Beat

Sunbury Beat

By Inspector Maxine Cilia, Spelthorne Borough Commander

By Inspector Maxine Cilia, Spelthorne Borough Commander

Well, we are now truly leading up to Christmas; I say that because all the adverts on the TV are Christmas based so it must be so! I know that many of my updates focus on burglary, but this is the time when we really need to be aware of burglars as there is always an increase in burglaries leading to Christmas. Currently we are seeing a couple of key methods that burglars are using to access properties; the first is via rear patio doors being smashed, and the second is via front doors that are being forced open. Garden side gates to rear gardens are often being breached either by climbing or opening. The main target is gold, cash and documentation for ID and/or financial documents. In most cases only the main bedrooms are being searched. However, in some cases the whole house has been completely upset searching everywhere.

Well, we are now truly leading up to Christmas; I say that because all the adverts on the TV are Christmas based so it must be so! I know that many of my updates focus on burglary, but this is the time when we really need to be aware of burglars as there is always an increase in burglaries leading to Christmas. Currently we are seeing a couple of key methods that burglars are using to access properties; the first is via rear patio doors being smashed, and the second is via front doors that are being forced open. Garden side gates to rear gardens are often being breached either by climbing or opening. The main target is gold, cash and documentation for ID and/or financial documents. In most cases only the main bedrooms are being searched. However, in some cases the whole house has been completely upset searching everywhere.

My plea is for all householders to check their outside lighting, intruder alarms and cameras and make sure they are all working. Ensure that any side gates are made difficult to open from the outside with no tools or wheely bins to aid entry. Consider ensuring any bolts are padlocked.

In relation to doors and windows, consider ensuring locks are always on and make the house look like someone is in at all times, with lights on a timer and/or a radio on. When you get round to putting out Christmas trees and/or festive decorations, try not to put any presents on show.

In relation to doors and windows, consider ensuring locks are always on and make the house look like someone is in at all times, with lights on a timer and/or a radio on. When you get round to putting out Christmas trees and/or festive decorations, try not to put any presents on show.

I give you all this advice but also would like to tell you that as an area we are still managing to reduce burglaries and currently are showing a reduction once again of 17.8% on last year.

I give you all this advice but also would like to tell you that as an area we are still managing to reduce burglaries and currently are showing a reduction once again of 17.8% on last year.

If you see something suspicious, please let us know. It may be that someone is checking out the area and may come back at a later date, but however small you think it is we would like to know.

If you see something suspicious, please let us know. It may be that someone is checking out the area and may come back at a later date, but however small you think it is we would like to know.

Other crimes that are noticeable are thefts of motorbikes, especially lower powered scooters and mopeds, and thefts from motor vehicles. Some good news is that we charged a person with three thefts from motor vehicles, appearing at Staines Magistrates Court. Most thefts from motor vehicles are where the offender is simply trying door handles, finding open cars and stealing from within, but where valuables are left on display, we have seen windows smashed and items stolen.

My plea is for all householders to check their outside lighting, intruder alarms and cameras and make sure they are all working. Ensure that any side gates are made difficult to open from the outside with no tools or wheely bins to aid entry. Consider ensuring any bolts are padlocked.

Where there are valuables in the house, especially expensive jewellery, consider placing it in a suitably approved safe that is bolted to the floor. Please document your jewellery by taking pictures and consider registering them on The National Property Register for Phones, Gadgets, Bicycles & More... (immobilise.com)

Other crimes that are noticeable are thefts of motorbikes, especially lower powered scooters and mopeds, and thefts from motor vehicles. Some good news is that we charged a person with three thefts from motor vehicles, appearing at Staines Magistrates Court. Most thefts from motor vehicles are where the offender is simply trying door handles, finding open cars and stealing from within, but where valuables are left on display, we have seen windows smashed and items stolen.

Happy Christmas

Where there are valuables in the house, especially expensive jewellery, consider placing it in a suitably approved safe that is bolted to the floor. Please document your jewellery by taking pictures and consider registering them on The National Property Register for Phones, Gadgets, Bicycles & More... (immobilise.com)

Do not leave large amounts of cash in the home, it would rarely be covered by insurance policies and is an immediate target.

Do not leave large amounts of cash in the home, it would rarely be covered by insurance policies and is an immediate target.

Maxine

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Happy Christmas

Friday 9th December 2022 at 8pm

Treble Clef Christmas Choir Concert St James’ Parish Church, Weybridge KT13 8DE Tickets £12.50 from www.ticketsource.co.uk/treble clef

12th December 7.30pm

Addlestone Singers- come and enjoy our 50th Anniversary Christmas Concert on in the Addlestone Centre, Garfield Road, KT15 2NJ. We will be joined by members of the Chertsey Orchestra. Tickets £5.00 at the door. Collection for the Woking and Sam Beare Hospice.

Friday 16th December

Runnymede Jazz Club. Martin Bennett's Old Green River 7.30pm

Addlestone Community Centre, Garfield Rd, Addlestone, KT15 2NJ runnymedejazzclub@hotmail.com www.runnymedejazzclub.com

Saturday 17th December 2022 at 7.30 p.m. Spelthorne

Choral Society A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

”

Rutter’s Gloria, Festive favourites. With special guests, West London Brass. St Peter’s Church, Laleham Road, Staines TW18 2DX

Tickets £12.00 in advance from www.spelthornechoralsociety.com or £15.00 on the door. Accompanied children free.

Exhibition until 15th January 2023

Walled Garden, Thames Street, Sunbury Jason Hart. Woodwork to Treasure Exhibition and sale of hand made wooden pieces made from reclaimed wood. Jason is a Sunbury resident. His pieces would make a great Christmas gift. Entry free.

The Picture Palace Cinema at the Riverside Arts Centre. Not your ordinary cinema! Join us for relaxed candlelit screenings.

Love Actually (15) Friday 2nd December Doors & bar 7.30pm Moonstruck Wednesday 14th December Doors & tearoom 10am Tickets https://thelittleboxoffice.com/wonderama/ or cash at Skinners Post Office on the Avenue www.facebook.com/picturepalacecinema instagram @picturepalacecinema

From 2nd December

A Christmas Carol The Rose Theatre, Kingston Book your tickets now. www.rosetheatre.org

3rd December

Nauticalia Christmas shopping event

The Courtyard, Ferry Lane, Shepperton, TW17 9LQ

Thursday December 8th

The Sunbury Christmas market will be on outside the shops in the Avenue. From 5 -8pm. The Salvation Army will be playing and there will be a great variety of stalls, gifts and tempting delights. Make a date in your diary.

The Sunbury and Shepperton Local History Society will have a display at the Sunbury Xmas Market on 8th December and at Big Tree Night in Shepperton on 14 th December. Do come and see us and perhaps buy one of our books -they make lovely Xmas presents!

Fridays 10th December and 13th January 2023. Sunbury Library Coffee Time. 1011.30am The Friends of Sunbury Library invite you to a Coffee Time. Coffee or tea, biscuits and general knowledge quiz for 50p. Sunbury Library, The Parade, Staines Road West, Sunbury.

Wednesday 14 December, 7pm, Esher French Circle at West End Village Hall, KT10 8LF. The Golden Age of French ‘Chansons’. Peter Prowse talks about the great ‘chansonniers’ (Brassens, Brel, Trenet, Montand…) and performs hits such as La Mer, C’est si Bon and Ne Me Quittes Pas. Admission £5 for non-members. www.cerclefrancais-esher.uk

9th January - 8.00 to 9.45pm every Monday Addlestone Singers Spring session starts at the Methodist Church, 71 Station Road, KT15 2AR. Free parking off Crouch Oak Lane behind the medical centre. We would love to welcome new ladies for enjoyable evenings. addlestonesingers.tumblr.com

19th January Menopause Café. 7:30-9pm The Magpie, 64 Thames Street, Sunbury. Free tickets can be booked through Eventbrite or by emailing; sunburyandsheppertonmenocafe@outlook.com

Sunbury Neighbours Volunteers have been helping those in need in our community for more than 20 years but desperately need more drivers. If you enjoy meeting people and have the occasional spare hour to help, please contact us on 01932 787343. A mileage allowance will be paid .

Gardening Matters

Poinsettia Magic

In the UK, poinsettias have become as entwined with Christmas as holly and mistletoe. Yet poinsettias are actually subtropical plants, native to Central America and Mexico, requiring temperatures of between 10 and 21 degrees centigrade to survive.

The bright red ‘flowers’ are really bracts, surrounding the real flowers, which are tiny and insignificant. They are notoriously difficult to persuade to flower again so it is with some pride that I tell you my current poinsettia is seven years old, huge, and flowers every year.

If you want to try this, fertilize the plant once a month then cut back the stems in February to promote new growth. In May repot it to a larger container.

From late September to 1st December cover the plant between 6pm and 8am as poinsettias need long periods of darkness in order to persuade the bracts to turn red. Around December 1st you should have a beautiful flowering poinsettia. But if this sounds too much like hard work...well, you can always buy another one! As it’s the festive season I thought I ’d finish with a traditional Christmas story, explaining how the poinsettia came to be associated with this time of year.

If you buy a poinsettia for someone this year it might be nice to tell them the story when you give them the plant:

In Mexico, there once lived a little girl called Pepita who came from a very poor family. Every year, she and her brother Pablo looked forward to the big Christmas festival in their village. A manger scene would be set up in the church and the days before Christmas were filled with parades and parties. On Christmas Eve the whole village would attend church and all the children would place a gift for the baby Jesus next to the manger.

One year Pepita’s family had no money at all

By Rachael Leverton

to buy such a gift so it was with a sad heart that Pepita walked to the church that Christmas Eve and as they drew closer she began to weep.

“Little Pepita, why do you cry? ” asked her older brother Pablo.

“Because I have no gift for the Christ child ,” she answered.

“Oh Pepita, even the most humble gift, if given in love, will be accepted by him ,” said Pablo, comforting her. Pepita considered this for a while then gathered a handful of weeds from the roadside verge and fashioned them into a small posy. But as she entered the church her heart felt heavier than before.

With her head bowed she approached the altar and knelt to lay her posy before the manger. Suddenly the tiny bouquet burst into blooms of brilliant red starry flowers and all who saw them were sure they had witnessed a Christmas miracle.

The flowers are known as Flores de Noche Buena in Mexico which translates as Flowers of the Holy Night.

Happy Christmas, Rachel

container.

In the UK, entwined mistletoe. tropical and Mexico, between survive. The bright surrounding tiny and They are to flower that I tell seven years year. If you want a month to promote larger

From late the plant need long persuade December flowering But if this work...well, As it ’s with a

how

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Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information included in this publication, neither the publisher nor the editorial contributors can accept any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting f rom negligence, accident or any other cause. Village Matters does not endorse any advertising material included in this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form without prior permission of the pub lisher.