Great Ashby & Old Town Directory December 2015 Free Monthly Magazine Delivered to Homes and Businesses in the Stevenage Area

Kitchen | Bedroom | Home Study

For all your design, supply and installation needs Family run business

Visit our showroom at: Unit E, Gateway 1000, Whittle Way, Arlington Business Park, Stevenage SG1 2FP Tel: 01438 222929 www.kitchenergonomics.co.uk 2 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Great Ashby & Old Town Directory December 2015 Free Monthly Magazine Delivered to Homes and Businesses in the Stevenage Area

Kitchen | Bedroom | Home Study

For all your design, supply and installation needs Family run business Contents Visit our showroom at: Unit E, Gateway 1000, Whittle Way, Arlington Business Park, Stevenage SG1 2FP Tel: 01438 222929 www.kitchenergonomics.co.uk

Employment Matters...... 32 Growing Fruit Trees...... 35 Animal Know-How...... 36 Kyoto - Japan...... 39 Jaguar F-Pace...... 40 Seasonal Delights...... 42 Baking ...... 47 Evolution of the Farm Shop 4 Puzzle Page...... 48 Beer At Home...... 51 The Evolution of the Farm Village Shop...... 5 Prize Crossword...... 54 How to be a Careful Consumer Online the ...... 8 What’s On...... 58 Win Tickets to the Adventure Travel Show...... 11 Book Review...... 61 The Great Countdown...... 12 Have a Healthier Happier Christmas...... 15 Food Banks...... 18 Why Mountains Matter 25 Which Wine?...... 20 Fun Quiz...... 20 Beauty that won’t Break the Bank...... 22 Why Mountains Matter...... 25 Financial Help Available for First Time Buyers...... 26 Children’s Page...... 29 Top Tips for Fundraisers and Charities...... 31

Editorial Publishers Lauren Chapman, Jonathan Vernon-Smith, Kate Duggan, Villager Publications Ltd Susan Brookes-Morris, Debbie Singh-Bhatti, Toni Hasler, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Carol H Scott, Pippa Greenwood, RSPCA, Solange Hando, Tel: 01767 261122 James Baggott, Ted Bruning and Bruce Edwards [email protected] www.villagermag.com Advertising Sales Victoria Tonkinson Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, Tel: 01767 261122 E: [email protected] however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibil- Photography - Darren Harbar Photography ity for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part Design and Artwork of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the Design 9 - Tel 07762 969460 express permission of the publisher. To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 History By Lauren Chapman

The evolution of the Village Farm Shop A well-loved tradition of most villages in contains an array of products, often straying Britain, the farm shop provides an easy, away from that which is solely produced on reliable way of getting fresh fruit, vegetables the farm. However, far from a problem this and eggs straight from their farm origin. Many evolution looks to be very positive for both of us are already very familiar with, and fond customer and farmer, as many farm shops now of, the age old tradition of the farm shop; the offer a range of premium goods and services; almost whimsical idea of a small area set apart from products such as fish, bread and organic from the farm itself selling off an array of fresh label items to novelties such as cooking produce to anyone who happens by; straight lessons, crafts and even cafes, it has produced from the field no middle man or supermarket an attractive range of items for the customer trip necessary. And why wouldn’t we be? As and a new income for the farmer. The village well as guaranteed freshness, a trip to the farm shop now offers more, choice, range, farm shop also entails a sense of education value and even leisure activities than it ever into the origin of our food and what it’s really did before. like before it’s been polished to supermarket With the constant increase in the number of standards. Passed down throughout the years, supermarkets and corner shops around as well it is a tradition that has so far lasted the test of the ongoing price war to see who can offer time. the best value for money, the broadening of Although it seems that even this tradition products and conveniences a farm shop will has adapted to the new ways of the modern offer may come as no big surprise. Whereas world. What would before have been a quaint a large supermarket can offer the customer little shop full of vegetables and fruit now branded or value products in great quantities 4 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Leather multifunction steering wheel. LED daytime driving lights. 15-inch alloy wheels. Automatic climate control. Stop-start technology. Electric windows. Cruise control with limiter. The Iconic city car, all for just £149 a month. Oh, and four seats. The new smart forfour passion 4-seater city car, from smart at Mercedes-Benz of Stevenage: only £149 a month, £149 deposit with FREE 12 months' insurance^. Less delivers more.

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To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 5 the farm shop in comparison can only offer small amounts of stock priced in a way that’s fair to the farmer’s income but not necessarily as cheap. This left the farmers with a decision, either keep things the way there were and risk losing out to competition or change and expand the idea of the farm shop. Instead of being swamped by this increase of competition the number of farm shops in the UK is steadily growing as farmers look to increase and vary their sources of income in times of financial unrest. Farm shops are also financially beneficial to the farmers as, by selling straight to the customer, the farmer gets to keep more of the money made, as there’s no middle man to inject new costs. This is why more and more Farm shops are moving away from the traditional and starting to stock higher-margin premium goods such as locally sourced organic food, which the larger supermarkets tend not to. Some modern farm shops have moved even further forward by appealing to not just those interested in purchasing food but an experience as well, leaving money in a box or container, however with shops all over the country offering even the way we pay has evolved, with novelties such as cooking lessons and tea modern farm shops now accepting card and rooms. are often staffed by multiple people, a far cry Over recent years there’s also been a growth from the unmanned shelter at the side of the in the number of people who’ve become road. With all the modern additions, products conscious of what they’re eating, many are and payment methods the farm shop has becoming more aware of where their food is almost evolved to become a business in itself. sourced from and look out for organic local Scald End Farm in North Bedfordshire is a foods as there is a guarantee on it’s origin. This perfect example of how our farm shops have is where modern farm shops also come in, by evolved, the shop, having first opened seventy buying from a farm shop the customer can be years ago as a small stall at the side of the pretty sure of where produce is really from, road now provides a tea room, meat from the but not just with their meat, vegetables and butchery and freshly baked bread, a step up fruit but other less traditional products such as from just the fruit and veg of a few years ago. honey, cheese and even desserts. Originally a means for famers to efficiently get Those who grew up in or near a village with rid of excess produce or to make some extra a farm shop will more income the farm shop is now a staple of the than likely have village community enabling their customers to fond memories buy food with the knowledge of where it has of picking up the come from as well as the profits going straight item you wanted back to those who have grown it, with no and simply middle man or extra costs along the way. By adapting to the modern world the village farm shop is able to carry on as a viable source of income for the farmer and a beloved tradition for local communities to cherish for many years to come. 6 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 7 Three Counties Radio By Jonathan Vernon-Smith How To Be A Careful Consumer Online This Christmas The internet has been with us since the mid 90s. Whilst it has of course brought some fantastic benefits to our lives, it has also created some absolute headaches as well. The fact the entire world is accessible in our homes is a wonderful thing, but it is worth noting that there are lots of internet companies out there, particularly those in other countries that can provide a less than desirable service. So how can you protect yourself against these companies, particularly when making purchases for Christmas? The most important thing you can do, is to of course avoid buying items from dodgy internet companies in the first place. It sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how many people still find some weird company online that nobody’s ever heard of and hand over hundreds of pounds. They are then amazed when they find themselves out of pocket without the goods they’ve ordered. Therefore, always make sure you research the internet company you are planning to buy from. Find out where they’re based, look for a UK telephone number, check reviews and complaints about them so you know exactly who you’re dealing with. Ensure that their delivery timeframe will ensure your gifts will arrive in plenty of time for Christmas. Make sure you’re paying a sensible price. If a company is selling an item at a ridiculously low price compared to all other companies, there’s usually a reason why. Often the items are fake. Over the years I’d dealt with my fair share of customers who thought they were getting a great deal with ‘Ugg boots’ or ‘GHD hair straighteners’, only to find they’ve bought fakes from a company abroad. You should always pay for goods by credit card but particularly when buying over the internet. It is worth noting that you are not protected by the consumer credit act unless you’re paying over £100, but you’re still more likely to get your money back than debit card, cheque or bank transfer. I would go as far as to say you should NEVER buy goods from a company that asks you to transfer money directly into their account. If you decide you’re going to buy Christmas presents from an online auction site like ebay, it is worth familiarising yourself with their safety advice. You generally have fewer rights when buying goods in this way, particularly if they are second hand. Paying by paypal and ensuring that you NEVER collect items in person will go some way to protecting yourself. Only buy from highly rated sellers, based in the UK. It is worth remembering that when you buy brand new items over the internet, you are protected by the distance selling regulations. Because you haven’t had the chance to see the item in the flesh, you have 7 days from delivery to change your mind and send it back for a full refund. Unless the company specifies their returns postage policy, then they are liable for the postage too. Make sure you order things online in plenty of time to allow for this, after all, you don’t want unhappy friends and relatives whose presents are NOT under the tree.

Jonathan Vernon-Smith not only offers you his consumer advice here but you can listen to The JVS Show tackling your consumer problems every weekday morning from 9am.

8 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 9 QUALITY CARPETS AND FLOOR COVERINGS

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10 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts COMPETITION The Adventure Travel Show Uncover Your Journey of a Lifetime 23-24 January 2016, Olympia, London The Adventure Travel Show, from walking and trekking to celebrating its 20th year, exploratory journeys, safaris, We are giving one is a world of extraordinary overland trips, life-changing lucky reader the discoveries all under one volunteering projects and chance to win a pair roof. It is the UK’s leading much, much more. event for people who like to The Adventure Travel Show of tickets to the travel outside the mainstream – it’s where your adventure show! – whether it be on small- begins… group adventures, exclusive For more show details and to Just answer this simple expeditions or epic journeys. buy tickets please visit question below: The Adventure Travel Show www.adventureshow.com Where is The Adventure is packed with inspirational Travel Show taking place? and essential travel advice, READER’S TICKET OFFER - Olympia specialist seminars and the We are also offering reduced - NEC best adventure speaker line up price advance tickets to the - The local village hall of 2016, including explorers, show! Get your tickets for adventurers, tour leaders only £6 (that’s saving £4 off Send your answer with your and guidebook writers who the door price!!) by quoting name and address will help you uncover your ‘VILLAGER’ when booking by 18th Dec 2015 to: perfect adventure. Plus, the tickets online at Villager Publications Ltd, biggest collection of specialist www.adventureshow.com 24 Market Square, Potton, travel operators all under or when calling 0871 230 7159. Beds SG19 2NP one roof will be on hand to (Calls cost 10p per minute plus The winner will be drawn at offer guidance on everything, network extras). random.

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 11 Time of Year The Great Christmas Eve Countdown By Susan Brookes-Morris

Whilst it’s not a public holiday, activities such as a visit to too by placing an onion and many people across the UK Santa’s grotto, skating on one oranges in the cavity, greasing choose to take Christmas Eve of the special ice rinks that pop the skin, wrapping with bacon off work to do last minute up in many towns and cities, and putting it in the baking tray preparations and take part in or taking a trip to the local with foil. Just make sure you special activities. . Of course it’s wise keep it out of the way of curious Many Christians attend church to book Christmas Eve activities pets! services ranging from special well in advance as it’s a popular If you have a frozen turkey you family-based events, to the time. will need to start the defrosting traditional . Many choose to spend at on Christmas Eve. This is also In other countries, the opening least part of the day at home the time to bring any other of presents is part of the watching Christmas movies, items out of the freezer- such as Christmas Eve celebrations listening to festive CDs and pre baked mince pies. Just try along with a large meal enjoyed doing everything they can to to resist the temptation to eat with family and friends. In the ensure that Christmas Day goes them all the same day. UK many spend Christmas perfectly. Some starters can also be made Eve delivering gifts to friends Most vegetables can be peeled and stored in the fridge, and for and relatives, if of course they and left safely in saucepans of those not wanting Christmas are not rushing round the cold water overnight. Fiddly jobs pudding other deserts can be shops perhaps having made a such as wrapping bacon around cooked and then reheated on deliberate decision to buy at the the sausages for pigs in blankets Christmas Day. last minute because many shops and preparing and Many people take great delight now start their sales early! sauces can also be done. You in laying the table carefully. Others will enjoy festive can get your turkey oven ready While youngsters may be out partying until the small hours, those in charge of the Christmas Day festivities and those with young excited children are well advised to get to bed at a sensible time; it is unlikely that you will enjoy Christmas Day if you are over tired and irritable. Only one more sleep until Christmas. Season’s Greetings.

12 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Our Pride - Your Joy

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To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 13 For A1 quality, service & value we’ve got it covered

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14 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Health Have a Healthier, Happier Christmas Christmas is often laden hands. Germs love with expectations, anxieties, damp. overindulgence and family • Ensure that meat tensions. It’s no coincidence that between the breast divorce lawyers are busiest in and thigh of your January. turkey isn’t pink, So how can you make Christmas and that juices are happier and healthier? clear. Take the Pressure Off • Adhere to ‘use by’ • Buy presents throughout the dates and check food carefully year, even on holiday; when beyond its ‘best before’ brandy butter. shops may stock something date. Christmas Party or Tea: unique. • Don’t leave buffet food out for • Swap traditional mince pies for • Try to resolve family conflicts more than four hours. filo or open-top versions. beforehand. • Chill leftovers rapidly and • Swap breaded or battered • You can’t please all of the reheat them thoroughly (just snacks for savouries made people all of the time, so ask once). with herbs, light dressings and everyone involved (including Healthier Christmas Eating marinades. yourself) what one or two Start with a healthy, filling • Choose tomato-based dips or things really makes their breakfast to avoid snacking make creamy dips with yogurt Christmas. Agree on a plan temptations. or crème fraîche. that includes these things, plus Dinner: • Avoid crisps, salted nuts and exercise and group activities. • Avoid fat-laden starters and the chocolates; choose plain Allot tasks to ensure one salt shaker. popcorn, rice cakes, pretzels, person doesn’t do everything. • Keep portion size sensible and unsalted nuts and fruit dipped • Bake and freeze food in stop eating just as you start to in chocolate (preferably dark). advance where possible. feel full. Be Drink Wise Avoid Festive Food Poisoning • Poultry fat is predominantly in • Even small amounts of alcohol Hygiene can slip with extra the skin, so prick it then cook it affect judgement and reactions. food, extra cooks and extra time on a rack, above the escaping Absorption depends on many pressure, so: fat. factors, so no set amount • Store and prepare ALL raw food • Use vegetarian sausage mix guarantees you’re under separately from ready-to-eat rather than sausage meat in the legal driving limit - and foods. stuffing. Scotland has a lower limit than • Rub fruit and vegetables clean • Forget goose fat roasties. Use a the rest of the UK. – don’t just rinse them. healthy oil spray or cook jacket • Don’t exceed NHS • Defrost foods thoroughly potatoes. recommended weekly limits: 21 and then cook or refrigerate • Microwave, steam or boil units for men and 14 units for immediately. Large turkeys vegetables in minimal water women. take time - always check inside until just soft. Add herbs or • Alcohol and salty snacks for ice crystals. lemon juice rather than butter. contribute to dehydration, • Ensure your fridge stays below • Use low salt gravy mix and making people irritable. Provide 5°C and there’s room for cold remove fat from meat juices jugs of chilled water jazzed up air circulation. before adding them. with winter berries or citrus • Keep food in the fridge until • Keep peel. the last possible moment. portions small and add low-fat Take time out to relax, and • Make sure nobody skimps on custard, crème fraîche or Greek remember: a burnt turkey isn’t the washing (and drying) their yogurt rather than cream or end of the world. To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 15 Word Ladder Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the furniture UK word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, Posh-Knots using the exact number of rungs provided. Based in the indoor market Stevenage Modern furniture half the retail price from top London designers. S H I P

Vintage furniture also available at ©Puzzlepress.co.uk www.poshknotsfurnitureuk.wix.com Contact Mel on 07506288665 P O R T

Posh Knots 1/4 page.indd 1 23/10/2015 19:18

16 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Splashbacks of Distinction Specialists in coloured and designer glass

Splashbacks of Distinction is a family • coloured glass splashbacks run business based in Hertfordshire. • glass worktop • glass balustrades We offer our customers a bespoke template • mirrors in a range of colours and installation service allowing us to see • toughened mirrors in a range of colours your project through from start to finish. • glass table tops • glass wall panelling We manufacture all our products in-house • printed glass splashbacks providing the same quality whether you • bespoke shower enclosures and screens require a single piece of glass to larger • glass vanity tops scale projects. ...and much more 01438 215 568 www.splashbacksofdistinction.co.uk [email protected] Unit 11 | Broomhall Farm | Watton at Stone | SG14 2RN To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 17

SofD full page advert.indd 1 24/09/2015 14:28 Charity By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

FoodHunger and poverty. Many of us won’t associate Bankspoints in many supermarkets available these problems with our own society but it’s a throughout the year. fact that 13 million people in the UK live below To donate is easy. All you need do is purchase the poverty line. Five years ago food banks a few extra items with your weekly shop, then had scarcely been heard of, but today more drop them off in the collection boxes situated than a thousand operate across the UK, giving near the checkouts. Most people decide on an assistance to people in need of basic supplies to amount they want to spend and keep on buying survive. until this is reached! If you purchase budget People need to use food banks for a variety brands, your money can go further and help of reasons: redundancy, illness, benefit more people. delay, changes in benefits, unexpected bills, Items purchased should be non-perishable and underemployment and family breakdown to in date - so anything in tins, packets and jars. If name a few. In today’s world of zero hours there isn’t a food bank near you but you would contracts and steadily rising food and fuel prices, still like to help, you can make a cash donation, an increasing number of people are finding which can be done online in many cases. themselves in need of help. The Trussell Trust Once food is received at food banks, it is sorted – the UK’s largest network of food banks – fed and packed into boxes by volunteers, who also nearly a million people in 2013-2014, over a guide clients to agencies able to help them with third of which were children. longer term problems. Typically, clients are referred to food banks by None of us can do everything to solve the front line care professionals such as doctors, social problems around us, but all of us can social workers, health visitors and the police, do something. Donating to a food bank is one who are trained to identify individuals in crisis. example. They issue vouchers which are exchanged at food banks for emergency food. Though all food Shopping List banks may not operate in the same way, the Milk (UHT/powdered) Sugar Trussell Trust provides emergency rations for a Fruit juice (long-life) Soup minimum of three days. Pasta sauce Sponge pudding (tin) All food donated to food banks comes from Tomatoes (tin) Cereals members of the public. This could be from Rice pudding (tinned) Tea bags/coffee individuals like you and me, but partnerships Instant mash Rice/pasta are also formed with schools, churches and Tinned meat/fish Tinned vegetables businesses. Large collections are made during Tinned fruit Jam Harvest Festivals and there are also collection Biscuits/snack bars 18 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 19 Food and Drink Which Wine? Choosing wine can be a bit of a minefield, and it’s all too easy to get it wrong. Follow our cheat’s guide to creating the perfect match. Fish course - Delicate fish dishes call for a delicate wine, such as Pinot Grigio. Rich sauces, however, require well-bodied whites like Chardonnay. Serving salty seafood? Champagne works surprisingly well. Spicy dishes - You’ll want a juicy, spicy wine to complement these dishes. Look for a Malbec or Syrah. Alternatively, a dry Riesling works well with Cheese course - There’s no easy answer here. spicy veggie recipes. Some cheeses go better with red, some with Juicy red meat - Bring out a rich red, such as a white. Sauternes and Stilton are a perfect match, Bordeaux or Cabernet Sauvignon. while Chardonnay works well with brie. A dry Rosé Turkey - Choose a full-flavoured white, like a is a good all-rounder. white Côtes du Rhône, or a delicate red, such as a In general, the main rule is to pair the Frappato. characteristics of the dish with the characteristics Veggie main - There is a misconception that of the wine. Buttery sauces work well with buttery vegetarian food should only be paired with white whites, for example. Have fun with your choices wine. In actual fact, medium reds work well with and enjoy! many veggie dishes, particularly tomato based. By Kate Duggan

Fun Quiz - Christmas TV 1. A 2008 Christmas special of which TV show saw Dave Coaches get engaged to Nessa Jenkins? 2. Miracle On Evergreen Terrace is the title of a special Christmas episode of which TV show? 3. In an animated TV special that was first broadcast in 1965, who was feeling depressed because Christmas had become too commercialised? 4. Made into TV films broadcast at Christmas in 2012, 2013 and 2014, which comedy star wrote the children’s books Mr Stink, Gangsta Granny and The Boy In The Dress? 5. Diamonds Are For Heather, Miami Twice and To Hull And Back were all titles of Christmas special episodes of which TV sitcom? 6. Who played the title character in The Runaway Bride, the 2006 Doctor Who Christmas special? 7. Who read out the first Royal Christmas Message to be televised?... King George V, King George VI or Queen Elizabeth II? 8. Which EastEnders character was murdered on Christmas Day in 2009? 9. In the 2013 Christmas TV advert for John Lewis, what did the hare get the bear as a Christmas present? 10. Where in London did Elisabeth Beresford take her children for a walk one when one of them pronounced the name of this place wrong, giving her the inspiration for a group of TV

characters? mispronunciation gave her the inspiration for The Wombles) The for inspiration the her gave mispronunciation

Horses 6. Catherine Tate 7. Queen Elizabeth II (in 1957) 8. Archie Mitchell 9. An alarm clock 10. Wimbledon Common (the (the Common Wimbledon 10. clock alarm An 9. Mitchell Archie 8. 1957) (in II Elizabeth Queen 7. Tate Catherine 6. Horses 1. Gavin And Stacey 2. The Simpsons 3. Charlie Brown (in A Charlie Brown Christmas) 4. David Walliams 5. Only Fools And And Fools Only 5. Walliams David 4. Christmas) Brown Charlie A (in Brown Charlie 3. Simpsons The 2. Stacey And Gavin 1.

20 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts BLADES BARBERS ReDUCeD WAiTing Times nOW With seven team members at BLADes BARBeRs

DUE TO THE SUCCESS of the salon, Brendan, with 28 years of barbering experience, has come a long way having opened the salon in early 2009 initially on his own, he now has seven team members to accommodate customer demand for high quality gent’s hairdressing at Great Ashby in Stevenage. REDUCED WAITING TIMES. Since opening the salon, Brendan Opening Times has increased the size of his waiting area to provide extra monday 9am - 6pm seats, taken on additional highly qualified barbers and Tuesday 9am - 6pm is now training a junior team member to the same Wednesday 9am - 6pm high standard that customers have come to expect. Thursday 9am - 7pm BLADES BARBERS – is an upmarket salon charging Friday 8am - 6pm saturday 7.30am - 4pm local prices. It is situated in the perfect location at sunday Closed the Neighbourhood Centre in Great Ashby, with FREE AND PLENTIFUL PARKING making the whole experience easy and convenient. price List - no appointment necessary Wet Cut & Blow Dry £8.50 Wash Cut & Blow dry £12.50 Clipper Cuts £6.50 senior Citizens £6.00 Mon - Thurs 9am - 2pm, over 65 years Children £7.50 up to 11 years Beard Trim £3.00 Beard Trim £4.50 with cut throat shape up Lines & patterns prices from £1.00

Unit 1, st Francis House, Whitehorse Lane, great Ashby neighbourhood Centre, stevenage, sg1 6nH Tel: 01438 317 482

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 21 Health & Beauty Beauty Gifts By Kate Duggan that won’t break the bank Beauty gifts need to be a little bit absolutely divine, the products and a hair accessory. Choose the decadent. The recipient should are very nourishing, so are ideal desired results from Tame Frizz, feel truly pampered, and will for the cold winter months. Moist Repair and Add Volume. appreciate that you haven’t Packaged in a pretty gift box, this Each set retails at £29.95. just picked up a run-of-the-mill set is sure to go down a treat. For a party host gift set with your supermarket Stocking fillers shopping. However, that doesn’t If stockings are still the best mean that you have to max the part of your Christmas morning, credit card out this Christmas. you’ll love Narynda’s sample So, here are our top picks for pots. Choose between the Body great value skin and body care Care Pack at £5, and the Face gift sets, starting from under a Care Pack at £7.50, then just If you fancy giving your host fiver. wrap each item separately. They something a bit more imaginative A gift for your mum both offer great value for money, than a bottle of wine or bunch Pai have and are ideal for a weekend of flowers, a gift set from B released a away. Narynda’s products are Skincare is a great choice. The limited edition formulated from some of nature’s lavender scented B Relaxed version of their finest skin soothers, including oat set is particularly relevant at bestselling oil, grapefruit oil and beeswax, so this hectic time of year, and at Rosehip they’re a good choice for sensitive £12.50 it won’t break the bank. BioRegenerate skin. Handmade in Cornwall by a small Oil, for £22. This Secret Santa family business, B Skincare make oil is the darling seriously luxurious products, at of the beauty media and packs a pocket-friendly prices. pretty powerful anti-aging punch. One for the boys It’s the most concentrated rosehip Buying for a man who oil on the market, and has been understands the importance of shown to offer visible skin healing good skincare? The Elemis Perfect benefits, including improving Man giftset should go down skin firmness, and minimising The prettily packaged soaps by a treat. The set comprises Ice the appearance of scars, stretch Akamuti are 100% natural and Cool Foaming Gel (for shaving), marks, sun damage and fine lines. handmade. The Rose Beauty Pro-Collagen Marine Cream for It also feels lovely to apply. Soap Bar contains shea butter, Men, Aching Muscle Super Soak For your sister olive oil and cocoa butter, along and two sachets of Pro-Collagen Neal’s Yard Uplifting Jasmine & with luxurious rose oil. A bar Hydra-Gel Eye Masks. At £49 it Ylang Ylang Organic Collection costs £4.75 and is a much more isn’t cheap, but as it includes includes a shower gel and body thoughtful choice for a co-worker £77.50 worth of products, it is cream, and is a real bargain than the usual box of chocolates great value for money. at £15. As well as smelling or gift voucher. For a friend Who wouldn’t want to receive the gift of beautiful hair? KMS California has released three gift sets this Christmas, each containing a shampoo, conditioner, two styling products 22 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 23 Great Ashby Podiatry Clinic General Chiropody and Diabetic Footcare Computerised Gait Analysis and Orthotic Therapy Qualified in Local Analgesia and Nail Surgery Sports Injuries and Musculoskeletal Conditions Treated

Gary Webb MChS Podiatrist Tel: 01438 317738 45 Grasmere, Great Ashby www.garywebbpodiatrist.co.ukwww.podiatryandwellbeing.co.uk

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24 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Special Report

Why Mountains Matter International Mountain Day is a UN observance held annually on the 11th December to highlight are several routes up, of varying difficulty, but the the importance of mountains, sustainable easiest way to the top is the Snowdon Mountain mountain development and mountain peoples railway, which carries passengers 4.7 miles from the and environments. This year’s theme is Promoting tourist hotspot of LLanberis to the summit with its Mountain Products for Better Livelihoods. visitor centre and cafe. Mountains cover around 22 percent of the earth’s Tourism, outdoor activities and increasingly, land surface, providing fresh water, energy and hydroelectric power production, are a big boost to food to 720 million mountain people worldwide the economy here. and indirectly benefiting billions more. They’re England: Scafell Pike vital to providing renewable energy through solar Scafell Pike, at 978 metres (3,209 ft), sits in farmland power, wind power, biogas and hydropower (which in Cumbria’s beautiful Lake District - the most currently provides a fifth of the world’s electricity). visited national park in the UK. However, although Maintaining Mountain Livelihoods tourism is vital for the local economy, path erosion It’s hard for mountain farmers and workers to and littering are concerns. As the middle mountain compete with lowland prices and production in the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’, Scafell Pike tends to volumes, but globalisation helps them sell high attract hill walkers who rush to climb it and rush off quality products. Tourism, outdoor activities, nature again, often spending little money locally. The Lake preservation and cultural heritage can also help District National Park Authority is working with local economies, but must be sustainable – and other organisations to lessen the environmental this is just as true for our UK mountains. So, what of impact of tourism and business while retaining the the highest mountains in Scotland, England, Wales area’s character. and Northern Ireland? Are their communities and Northern Ireland: Slieve Donard economies thriving and sustainable? Slieve Donard is an 850-metre (2,790 ft) peak in Scotland: Ben Nevis the Mourne Mountains near the County Down At a height of 1,344 m (4,409 ft), Ben Nevis is the coast. The 22 mile long Mourne Wall that protects highest mountain in the UK and the British Isles. It’s the local reservoir’s catchment area runs over the situated near Fort William at the western end of the mountain. Grampian Mountains, and those who climb to the The local economy relies on stone working, sand summit discover a ruined observatory that closed and gravel extraction, farming, tourism and in 1904. Most ascents are made via the Mountain outdoor activities. Slieve Donard has amazing Track from Glen Nevis on the mountain’s south views of the sea, the Lake District, Scotland, the side, a route that’s strenuous but easier than that Isle of Man and Arran. Along with Scafell Pike taken by climbers up the cliffs of the north face. and Snowdon, it was used as an observation The economy of Ben Nevis depends on tourists, station by the Ordnance Survey when performing walkers, climbers, large scale forestry and the triangulations to fix the positions of Britain and hydroelectric works powering aluminium smelting Ireland. works. If you’ve never visited one of these UK mountains, Wales: Snowdon take a trip – although perhaps in a warmer month! Snowdon, located in the Snowdonia National Park You don’t have to climb them to appreciate their in Gwynedd, is 1,085 metres (3,560ft) high. There beauty and importance. To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 25 Finance What Type of Financial Help is available for first time buyers? The thought of buying your first home can be The scheme is geared towards purchasers with a low daunting, but there’s help available from the deposit, and is intended to encourage confidence government that you may not know about. Equity in lenders that their money is safe, increasing the loans and mortgage guarantees combine within the likelihood of them offering a larger number of 95% Help to Buy scheme, which has been a popular option loan-to-value mortgages. for many people wanting to get their foot on the Shared Ownership property ladder. The Shared Ownership scheme enables you to own a Other possibilities include Shared Ownership proportion of your home - usually between 25% and schemes and Help to Buy ISA products. Additionally, 75% of the property’s value. You pay rent to a housing choosing a fixed rate mortgage deal will help you to association on the remaining proportion, but at a budget effectively and provides peace of mind that subsidised rate. you can afford the repayments. Shared Ownership helps people to buy their first Help to Buy home because rents are generally low, and are paid in Equity Loan conjunction with a mortgage. The housing association You only need to find a deposit of 5% as the may allow you to purchase more of your home over government loans you the remaining 20%. The loan time – usually up to its full value. is offered interest-free for the first five years, with an Help to Buy ISA interest rate of 1.75% being charged in year six on the The Help to Buy ISA is a new product offered by the amount of the original loan. Subsequent annual rate government, and is due to be introduced this month increases are in line with inflation, using the Retail (December). If you make a lump sum deposit of Price Index plus 1%. £1,000 the government will boost this amount tax- You’ll be able to repay part of the loan early without free by up to £250 when you buy your home, plus by penalty if you want, and you can sell your home another £50 for each further £200 of monthly savings. whenever you like. The repayment figure on sale is There is a limit on these tax free bonuses of £3,000. based on the property’s value at the time so that the Fixing your mortgage rate government benefits from its rise in value. If you fix your mortgage rate you’ll be able to Mortgage Guarantee budget with confidence, and won’t need to worry This part of the Help to Buy scheme is available until about mortgage interest rate rises. Interest rates are 31st December 2016 for new-builds and older expected to increase in the spring of 2016, so this is a homes. It is valid for properties worth up good time to look for a suitable fixed rate deal. to £600,000, and the government It can be difficult to know for how long to fix your provides a guarantee to rate, but with increases expected over the next mortgage lenders for few years a five-year term might be the best up to 15% of the choice, even though the rates offered will property be higher than deals over two or three value. years. With a little research and pre-planning you can take advantage of the various schemes available, fixing your interest rate to provide some stability and peace of mind.

http://www.moneywise.co.uk/news/2015- 09-09/first-time-buyers-to-get-4000-deposit- boost http://www.moneysupermarket.com/ mortgages/hubs/first-time-buyers/ http://www.moneysupermarket.com/mortgages/ first-time-buyers/ 26 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts 1 New Road Clifton Beds SG17 5JH

To advertise in The VillagerGreat Ashby and Town and Old Life Town please Directory call 01767 please 261122 call 01767 261122 27 Next FREE Taster Session - 30th January 2016

28 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 29 EBAY COLLECTIONS Local & Reliable

30 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Fundraising Tips

Top Tips for Fundraisers and Charities A Christmas Charity Wish Christmas is almost upon us. How you do the roller skaters may arrive safely at church. celebrate Christmas, if at all? Christmas In Japan, although Christmas is not a national traditions vary around the world. These holiday, it has become the custom since 1974 for traditions can also vary from family to family, Kentucky Fried Chicken to be served as the main particularly when families include people Christmas meal. Apparently, it is now so popular from different backgrounds and cultures. In that long queues stretch way past the door of researching around the the KFC shop and some even pre-order their KFC world I came across some that are interesting to ensure that they get some on Christmas day. and strange and one which is really rather In the region of , the traditional bizarre. has the addition of a truly bizarre In the Czech Republic, the family puts a small figure – that of the , which to put it candle into an empty walnut shell, which is then in polite terms is a figure with bare buttocks floated on a bowl of water. If the shell makes it shown in the act of defecation! Out of respect to the other side of the bowl, they believe that for Mary, Joseph, baby and the shepherds, the person who placed it will live a long and this figure is usually placed in a corner of the healthy life. Not so good for the person whose scene, behind some object. Apparently, the shell sinks, as this means that he or she will origin of this is that if the figure is not placed in suffer bad luck that year! the nativity scene, the farmer would have a very In Caracas, the capital of Venezuala, it is bad year collecting vegetables. Even stranger, the custom to travel to early morning this tradition has spawned numerous celebrity church services during the festive caganers, including one of the Queen herself season on roller skates. The and President Obama. Yes, it really is true! authorities there go as far as At Christmas time, traditions make our clearing the roads so that celebrations more meaningful. It’s good to know that some ad campaigns on TV at this time highlight the plight of so many older people, who end up alone at Christmas time. They no longer have the opportunity to share in the delight that Christmas traditions can bring to a community or family. What can you do to help? Contact charities such as Age Concern, the Royal Voluntary Service, or older people’s charities in your area to find out how you can help older people share in the happy traditions of Christmas. My charity wish this Christmas is that all Villager readers reach out to just one lonely person in their community this festive season. Visit her or him, take mince pies and a small gift, but do something to let someone lonely know they are not alone this Christmas.

by Toni Hasler of Support4charities.com To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 31 Employment Employment Matters ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Many organisations will have got the company shopping – or even better – a paid half day off Christmas party organised by the end of August for Christmas shopping and part-timers will be but many have decided not to carry on with given pro-rata paid time off. We tend to work them. long hours, and often are up to the wire in the Fewer Christmas parties basically mean a lot less run up to Christmas and time off is generally cost and organisation for the business but the considered by employees to be more useful knock on effect can result in less enthusiasm and than money much less of a ‘thank you’ to the team that have The most economical option is to throw a party kept their company afloat this year. in the office – although there is a worrying But what to organise? This is the headache for potential for all manner of fooling around with any business as the employees are all bound by the photocopying machine or getting locked a common interest – work – but their outside in the stationery cupboard – and, if alcohol is tastes are wide and varied. So round comes the involved, many dire warnings of claims against list for disco, meal out, trip to the theatre? Some the employer! yes, some no, some don’t want to go to any of It’s just as easy to round up the troops and them as they see enough of their colleagues all spend the evening out locally – invariably a year in the office. The manger gets offended that venue can be found where everyone will like people don’t want to ‘join in’, and employees something on the menu and parking is easy get upset that they are being forced to go – no need to go to a massive venue if you’re along when all they would really like is the cash planning to spend the evening over a good equivalent in supermarket vouchers to spend. meal and a couple of glasses of wine. Some of One of the most valued Christmas ‘presents’ any the big chains offer discount vouchers too. Just business can give every member of the team have someone sensible with a calculator who is a paid two and a half hour will work out who owes what for their dinner at lunch break for Christmas the end of the evening! If colleagues aren’t in favour of an evening do, organise a lunch instead and not one that only offers a Christmas menu which may not be to everyone’s liking. Finally, find out what special Christmas events are running in your local area that work colleagues could all go to as a group and perhaps organise an afternoon excursion to a Christmas fair or market before an optional evening meal. May I wish you and everyone you hold dear a happy, healthy and peaceful Christmas and New Year.

Carol H Scott HR and Business Consulting Ltd

32 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts LOOKING FOR AN ACCOUNTANT AND A PROFESSIONAL ONE TO ONE SERVICE ? We specialise in Small to Medium size Businesses, Sole Traders & Partnerships • Accounts • Tax Returns • Payroll • Vat For a free quotation and initial meeting call Chris Hughes 01438 362959 Email: [email protected]

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 33 £150 JOHN LEWIS Covering Herts, Beds VOUCHERS & North London areas WITH EVERY GARDEN MAKEOVER BOOKED LIMITED TIME OFFER *TERMS APPLY The Complete ❁ Fencing ❁ Lighting GARDEN ❁ Patios ❁ Turfi ng ❁ Water Features DESIGN SERVICE ❁ Paving ❁ Decking ❁ Exotic PLants www.greatgardenideas.com ❁ Driveways ❁ Gazebos ❁ Artifi cial lawns

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34 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Garden Growing Fruit Trees

By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com

For the ultimate in gorgeous apples, pears, plums or Innes No.3 will work well, but help to keep it well more, the fruit needs to be freshly picked and sun- aerated and free-draining by adding 25-50% multi- warmed - so grow your own and make some good purpose loam-free compost. looking additions to your garden, even when space It is essential to choose fruit trees on the right is limited. There’s no need to have a massive plot or ‘rootstock’, as this determines the ultimate size and an orchard to grow fruit trees… vigour of the tree. Apples are complicated, but as You can grow fruit trees in surprisingly small spaces, a rule, for step-overs, cordons, dwarf bushes and especially if you don’t grow them in a classic tree trees in containers try the extremely dwarfing M27 shape, but train them. Training them into espaliers - though weak varieties may fail in poor soil or if not (several sets of horizontal ‘arms’), cordons (single well pampered. For bush, cordon, espaliers and half- main stems grown at an angle) or fans (with standard try the dwarfing rootstock M26, while for branches trained into a fan shape) means that you a cordon, an espalier on poor soil, arches and bush can grow many varieties of apples and pears up trees try the semi-dwarfing MM106. against a suitable vertical surface such as a wall, You can buy one year old ‘maidens’ or ‘whips’ which fence or set of sturdy wires. are small, fairly straight stems and train them You could also train fruits like apples to make a yourself or you can buy trained or part-trained trees. neat edging for a bed or border about 45cm above Make sure you choose varieties that flower at ground level (called ‘step-overs’). A step-over apple the same time so that they pollinate each other grows to a height of about 30cm and is trained and thus provide fruit. Ask your supplier which to forms two horizontal ‘arms’, which will bear a ‘pollination group’ each variety is in. smallish crop of fruit. Try step-overs around the At this time of year you can buy inexpensive fruit edge of your vegetable plot or flower bed. trees sold ‘bare-root’, which means lifted from a field To make a real feature of fruit, use a tree to create a and not container grown; they also establish well. decorative and productive arch. Buy an inexpensive Bare-root fruit trees are generally available from bare root cordon (straight stem) or a ‘whip’ fruit tree about November until early March - so don’t delay, of your favourite variety, pair it with another variety get ordering or planting today! that is a suitable pollinator (check with the nursery) and plant one on each side of the arch, training Perfect as a , make vegetable them in as they grow. It will look pretty when in growing fun with Pippa’s unique ‘Grow Your blossom in spring and will bear tasty fruit too. Own with Pippa Greenwood’ system. Select Provided you get the right rootstock (see below), the vegetables you’d like to grow at www. you can grow fruit trees in large containers. The pippagreenwood.com and your garden-ready container needs to be big - a half-barrel at least plants will be delivered in May, accompanied by - and have drainage holes kept clear using a few weekly emails packed full of advice and tips. Gift inches of broken china or ‘crocks’ at its bottom. cards are available too for this perfect present! It is Good quality loam-based compost such as John great value and various pack sizes are available. To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 35 Pets Animal Know-How Is a pet the perfect Christmas present? Despite years of warnings about how ‘a dog is for life not just for Christmas’ many people still can’t resist the dream of delighted children and a cute puppy/cat/rabbit waiting for them under the tree. If you’re tempted to buy a pet as a Christmas present – or at any time of year – please carefully consider the following important questions: time for them to Does the person actually want a pet? You may have a pet? Maybe have had chats with them where they spoke about they are going on the idea of getting a pet – but these may have a long holiday? simply been musings about a picture postcard Perhaps there will future in a big country house with a sheep dog. A be months of late dream is very different to a genuine desire to get a nights at the office? Are they considering moving pet right now. home or even just a big decoration project? All of Are they physically able to own a pet? Many these things can affect whether people are ready medical conditions aren’t immediately obvious. for a new pet. While a person may appear fit and healthy, Do they have the time to own a pet? While you underlying medical conditions – or even allergies may think the addition of a pet to the house would to cats, dogs and other animals – may prevent be a brilliant thing – early morning walks with them from being able to own a pet. their new dog or evenings letting the cat back in Can they afford to keep a pet? While you may the house may be the last thing they want at this feel you know the person well, you may not be moment in their already full life. fully aware of their financial situation. Things like Are children aware of the responsibilities of pet food, vet bills and insurance all cost money. If ownership? Getting a pet for a child needs plenty money is tight then having another mouth to feed of consideration, time and education – it’s not probably isn’t something you should spring on them without what they need. warning. Do they own So, please stop and think – before making a rash any other pets? decision. RSPCA figures over recent years indicate If they do, they that three pets are abandoned every hour during clearly like the Christmas period. Please don’t add to that animals – but it problem. doesn’t mean they – or their ANIMAL KNOW-HOW is one of a series of articles brought pet – are ready to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch for another one. Is it the right www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk 36 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts It’s a D g’s Life Professional Dog Grooming Fully Insured. City and Guilds qualified.

Grooming Services: Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning Bath and Blow Dry Full Groom Hand Stripping 1st Puppy Bath Free (up to 4 months) Health Check I have a variety of shampoos to suit individual needs. A quick spray of cologne and your pet will come home smelling wonderful. Other Services: Are there times when you need help with your pet? Have you got an unusually long day away from home? Are you out all day? I can help....dog walking or home visits to allow a toilet break or to give food. Please call to discuss your requirements. I look forward to hearing from you. Call Christina Valentine on 07717 077502 223 Cleveland Way, Great Ashby, Stevenage Herts SG1 6BX Based in Great Ashby To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 37 Stevenage airport taxiS

Stevenage Airport Taxis offer the most reliable and professional airport transfer service in and around the Stevenage area. We have several licensed vehicles that can cater for up to 8 passengers. We also provide a transport service for weddings, long distance journeys and any occasion day or night leisure trips. Please visit our website for any bookings or quotations www.stevenageairporttaxis.co.uk or call 01438 420420 Online Bookings • Credit Cards Accepted

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* At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) own the vehicle: pay the optional final payment; ii) return the vehicle: subject to fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. Available on Solutions Personal Contract Plan. †Up to 2 years/20,000 miles (whichever comes first). 18s and over. Subject to availability. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Offer available when ordered by November 30th, 2015. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication. Freepost Volkswagen Finance. Finance providers may pay us for introducing you to them. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to assist with your purchase, who may pay us for introducing you to them. Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Official fuel consumption in mpg (litres/100km) for the Golf range: urban 30.1 (9.4) – 72.4 (3.9); extra urban 47.9 (5.9) – 88.3 (3.2); combined 39.8 (7.1) – 83.1 (3.4). CO2 emissions 165 – 89g/km.

38 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Travel

Kyoto - Japan By Solange Hando Laced with rivers and lakes at the foot of the shrines are traditionally fronted by a red ‘torri’ gate, mountains, Kyoto nestles in a lush valley on marking the transition from profane to sacred, and Japan’s main island. It’s a bustling city of tree-lined accessed by a gravel path whose sound is believed avenues and gleaming shops but in this former to calm the mind in readiness for worship. Most capital, the past lingers in myriad heritage sites, 17 famous is the Fushimi Inari shrine where hundreds of them listed by UNESCO, sprinkled on the slopes of vermilion gates cover the tunnel-like paths. The or tucked away at the heart of town. For over 1,000 shrine honours the God of Rice and his messenger, years, this was the emperor’s home, even when the Fox, while nearer to the town centre, the military rule was set up in Edo (now Tokyo), and a Heia-jingu is a replica of the original imperial renowned cultural centre where temples, palaces palace, built in 794, including pagodas, halls and a and gardens flourished and geishas entertained ‘strolling garden’ cooled by water features. the elite with elegance and grace. Alongside its 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto claims Imperial power was restored in Tokyo in 1868 but 1,600 Buddhist temples. Here’s the Temple of the Emperor still visits his Kyoto Palace, a complex Clear Water, one of the oldest in Japan, and the of sweeping roofs and covered walkways behind spring where wishes might come true, there a long perimeter wall on the edge of a public Ryoan-ji, known for its rock garden and lovely park. Around the corner, the Nijo Castle greets lake festooned in azalea, and the most popular, visitors with a delightful garden, a dark mysterious Kinkaku-ji and its Golden Pavilion, originally hall draped in ancient murals and a ‘nightingale’ built in the 15th century and dedicated to Zen corridor where floorboards still creak to ward off Buddhism. It’s a crowded place but patient visitors intruders. are sure to find some quiet moments when the Meanwhile across the Kamo river, traditional Golden Pavilion simply takes their breath away. wooden houses glow along the lanes in the Gion Mirrored in the lake, it’s almost unreal, a classical district, a perfect picture postcard, especially if painting sparkling with gold leaf in a luxuriant you spot a geisha or two, but a world away from oasis. Some say it’s a vision of the after-life, the the glorious temples and shrines which are Kyoto’s ‘Pure Land of the Buddha’, others see it as the most iconic landmarks. When locals visit on special perfect harmony between heaven and earth. occasions, young women wear flowers in their hair Whatever it is, one can barely imagine that after and kimonos flutter along the paths. Hiroshima in 1945, Kyoto was next on the list for Most Japanese follow both Buddhism and nuclear destruction but spared at the 11th hour by Shinto, the indigenous religion worshipping the Henry L. Stimson, the US Secretary of War who had thousands of spirits who live in the natural world. visited the city on his honeymoon. Buddhist prayers are for the after-life but Shinto is So Nagasaki was hit and Kyoto remains one of the for the present since spirits are all around. Shinto most stunning heritage sites in Japan.

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 39 Motoring

Jaguar F-Pace By James Baggott Editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

Jaguar has finally launched its bulge. ‘The F-Type has been an snow, seamlessly. This may be a long-awaited SUV contender, the inspiration in so many ways,’ he crossover, but it’ll still be capable F-Pace. By breaking a world record added. off road. loop-the-loop the night before the Interior advances: The inside of Kitted out: Blind spot detection, Frankfurt Motor Show, the British the F-Pace is a whole new world closing vehicle alert, lane assist, manufacturer took the wraps off for Jaguar. A 10-inch touchscreen traffic signal recognition are all its most important car for decades with a new user interface looks standard as is a forward facing in typical big-budget JLR fashion. and works brilliantly, while there’s camera that can spot pedestrians But while the stunt may have a 100GB SSD hard drive for owners in places drivers can’t. Occupants grabbed the attention of the to store music and video, four USB can even connect up to eight social media generation and the ports and four 12V sockets. devices to the car’s WiFi network headlines from the Germans in A 12.3-inch digital display sits on the go. their own backyard, it was the where the clocks should be. They Watch this: Sporty types can use a car’s details that we were really are represented digitally but all wrist-watch style, waterproof key interested in. can be changed to display a full for times they don’t want to take Porsche beater? Jaguar referenced screen map for the sat nav. Twitter the original with them. Drivers lock the Porsche Macan no fewer than and Spotify are fully integrated the car by tapping the ‘Activity Key’ 10 times in its press presentation, while users can use apps to pre- against the ‘J’ on the boot. It uses so it’s clear who the brand is heat and cool the car, locate it and RFID technology and is waterproof targeting. The F-Pace will cost even to link with an Apple Watch. to 20 metres. £34,170 when it arrives, which Material matters: There is more Pulling power: A supercharged prices it ‘at the heart of the aluminium in the car than any 380bhp 3.0-litre V6 petrol will see medium SV market and makes it other in its sector –some 80 per the Jag hit 60mph in 5.3 seconds better value than a Macan,’ says cent - while a third of that is from while the 300bhp 3.0-litre V6 Jaguar. recycled sources. 70 new robots diesel has a whopping 700Nm. Design decisions: Ian Callum said have been installed at the Solihull Starter’s orders: Customers he ‘never dreamed we’d do a plant to make the F-Pace, with desperate to be the first to own crossover SUV’ and that the only £120m invested in the project. an F-Pace will be offered a special reason they did it was because All terrain: Borrowing tech from First Edition. Priced at a whopping customers wanted one. Callum its Land Rover siblings, the F-Pace £65,275 just 2,000 will be offered said he was pleased with the short features a clever four-wheel drive worldwide with only 200 coming overhangs, the integration of system that switches between to the UK. They can have it in any the Jaguar grille and the bonnet ice, snow/very wet or sand/deep colour it’s blue. 40 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 41 Food and Drink

Serves 6-8 Ready in 2 hours 45 minutes, plus cooling

Seasonal Delights Marmalade and mustard glazed gammon

Glazed gammon is a Christmas favourite – 2 Bring to the boil then skim off any scum from delicious hot from the oven as a festive supper or the surface using a slotted spoon. Reduce the served cold as part of the Boxing Day buffet! heat, cover and leave to simmer for 1½ hours, topping up the water level as needed. INGREDIENTS 3 Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas 4. 2.5kg smoked gammon joint Lift out the gammon from the pan and place 1 onion, peeled and quartered in a foil-lined roasting tin (discard the cooking 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped liquid). Leave to cool for 10 minutes. Cut away 2 fresh bay leaves, plus extra to garnish the skin from the gammon, leaving a thin layer Few black peppercorns of fat and score the fat into diamonds. Stud the 1 tbsp whole cloves scored fat with the cloves in an even pattern. 3 tbsp shredless orange marmalade, warmed 4 Mix together the marmalade, honey, mustard 2 tbsp runny honey and sugar and spoon all over the gammon fat. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes, basting 3 tbsp light soft brown sugar regularly with the glaze and pan juices until Orange wedges, to garnish the fat is golden. Serve hot or cold garnished with fresh bay leaves and orange wedges. 1 Place the gammon joint in a large deep TIP pan with the onion, carrot, bay leaves and Add 1 tsp each ground cumin and ground peppercorns. Pour over enough cold water to coriander or a splash of Tabasco sauce to the cover the joint. glaze for a bit of extra spice, if liked. 42 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts HERTS OVEN CLEAN Herts Oven Clean is a domestic oven cleaning specialist in Hertfordshire.

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To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 43 Dot Electrical

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• Gutter Clearance • Fascias • Cladding • • Soffits • Conservatory Roof Cleaning • Fast, Reliable, Fully Qualified Electricians 24 hour service, 7 days a week • A reliable and friendly service • We offer a range of electrical services • Windows cleaned every 6 weeks • covering both domestic and industrial: • Traditional methods & Pure Water Systems used • Rewires, New installations, • Top quality work guaranteed • Garden lighting and power, Intruder alarms, • Fully insured • CCTV, Security lighting, Fuse box upgrades • All ‘Framework’ cleaned as standard • Recessed lighting, Central heating systems Contact Mark on: Electric showers, Fault finding, Solar energy 0777 508 2995 Tel: 07854738740 / 07516 256241 www.averywindowcleaning.co.uk Email: [email protected] Web: www.dotelectrical.co.uk

44 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Lily’s Crystal Clean

cleaning service from £10 ph

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Lily's Crystal clean 1/4 page.indd 1 20/10/2015 11:32 e Flintham Jo Plasterers Female Plasterer specialising in: Plastering, Plasterboarding Rendering, Making Good, Painting A FRIENDLY FAMILY FIRM. FREE QUOTATIONS Tel. 07951 362335 / 07836 768670 Email: [email protected] To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 45 SHIRON Domestic Appliances

Repairs of Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Electric Ovens Electric Cookers Microwaves Vacuum Cleaners and all domestic appliances.

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46 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Food and Drink

Baking Makes 10-12 slices Stollen Ready in about 3 hours This spiced and fruity Continental sweet bread is and knead for 5-8 minutes until smooth and perfect for serving over the festive season with a elastic. At first the dough will be quite sticky so glass of warm . add more flour as necessary. 4 latten out the dough and knead in the raisins, INGREDIENTS cherries and peel until just combined. Place 50g butter the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with 175ml milk cling film and leave in a warm place for about 3 tbsp caster sugar 1½ hours, or until doubled in size. 375g strong plain white flour 5 Turn the dough onto a floured surface and ¼ tsp salt knead for 1-2 minutes, then roll out to a 1 tsp ground mixed spice 25cm square. Shape the marzipan into a 2 tsp fast-action dried yeast sausage shape and place down the centre of Zest of 1 lemon the dough. Fold one side over to cover the 1 large egg, beaten marzipan then repeat with the other side, 125g raisins overlapping in the centre. Seal the ends. Place 25g chopped mixed peel seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. 50g glace cherries, rinsed, dried and quartered Cover with oiled cling film and leave in a warm 175g marzipan place until doubled in size. Preheat the oven to Melted butter, for brushing 190°C, fan 170°C, gas 5. Icing sugar, for dusting 6 Bake the stollen for 35-45 minutes until golden and sounds hollow when tapped underneath. 1 Put the butter, milk and caster sugar in a Brush the hot stollen all small pan and heat gently until the sugar has over with melted butter dissolved and the butter has melted. Leave to and roll in the cool for 10 minutes. icing sugar 2 Sift the flour, salt and mixed spice into a large to coat. bowl and stir in the dried yeast. Make a well in the centre and stir in the milk mixture, lemon zest and egg. Mix together with a round- Leave to cool. bladed knife to form a soft and sticky dough. 3 Turn the dough onto a well floured surface To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 47 Codeword 1 2

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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Easy Suduko Hard Suduko

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles.

48 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts WINDOW REPAIRS Serving all of Herts - Based in Stevenage Specialising in replacing misted units

BEFORE AFTER email: [email protected] website: www.jmlwindows.co.uk 07977 911 926 / 01438 906300 • Misted/broken double glazed units • Sticking doors or windows adjusted • Broken/loose handles • Leaded or Georgian units replaced • Hinges for gapping windows • Leaks fixed • All types of locks replaced • Energy saving Planitherm glass • Cat/dog flaps in glass or panels • Door re-alignments Visit our website for over 30 customer reviews

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 49 I D Decorating Premier Painting & Decorating Painters and Decorators Services

Premier Painters and Decorators are a professional, punctual and hard working company delivering outstanding quality of Painting – Interior & Exterior work to our clients in and around Stevenage From wallpaper hanging, feature walls, coving and cornice work. We even clean Decorating facias, soffits and guttering. (PVC or Wood) If you would like to take advantage of our services, require a quote or advise please do not hesitate to contact us. Be assured Coving when Premier quote a job there are NO HIDDEN EXTRAS. Private and commercial, exterior and No Job Too Big Or Too Small interior painting services. Fully Insured & Free Estimates For a free quotation please contact Gary on Tel: 01438 230943 Mob: 07733 227961 Email: [email protected] Telephone: Ian Dunklin www.premierpd.co.uk 0790 508 3799

Bathrooms Looking to transform your bathroom? Contact Ascott Bathrooms - the bathroom service of choice. We take great pride in our name, reputation and custom in North Hertfordshire and the Home Counties. Our aim is to help you transform your bathroom into something you dream about. From complete bathroom transformations to simply installing a suite you have bought yourself. All works are carried out to the highest standard and fully guaranteed. Please call 01438 240598 or 07818 091676 for your free estimate 191058 ascottcompletebathrooms.web.com

50 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts Food & Drink

Beer at Home By Ted Bruning December is the month for hideous is astonishing – a big burst of toffee self-indulgence – your office party, your and coffee (a more appealing mix than partner’s office party, your Christmas party, it sounds!) followed by a pineapple- your neighbours’ various Christmas parties, chunk tang. The mouth feel is quite light, relatives you haven’t seen for months (12 but the flavour packs more of that rich months, to be precise) dropping by, the Day coffee balanced by sharp green fruit. itself, New Year’s Eve... you get the picture. The contrasting themes continue into a So here are a couple of hideously self- lingering finish. Well done, Guinness! indulgent beers whose calories will all have Stronger at 7.3% alcohol is McEwan’s to be dissipated somehow in the grand Champion, a supercharged version of January detox. a Scotch ale. Traditional Scotch ales are Let’s start with Guinness. Not the Guinness dark amber in colour, sweetish, and not you’re used to, but one of its crop of new particularly hoppy, and apart from its “craft” style bottled beers. It’s easy to be muscular heft Champion fits the bill cynical about the number of big, old- perfectly. The colour is almost garnet; the established brewers jumping on the craft nose blends fresh peaches with biscuity bandwagon - but what matters is the malt, with a faint whiff of esters in the quality of the beer itself. Is it any good? background; the body is full and rounded In the case of this 6% alcohol West Indies and definitely on the sweet side; and Porter, based on a brewer’s book from the finish is a little sharper but against a 1801, yes. It is. It pours jet black, with a backdrop of caramel. This will definitely be rumpled, loose, light tan head. The nose my Hogmanay beer!

WORDWHEEL Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel. TARGET Excellent: 15 or more words Good: 12 words Fair: 9 words T N O T N E C

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 51 HERTFORD TV SERVICE Tel: 01992 552955 www.hertf ordtvservice.co.uk • DIGITAL FREEVIEW AERIAL INSTALLATIONS • EXTRA TV POINTS & SKY PLAYBACK • AERIAL REPAIRS & STORM DAMAGE • DAB/FM AERIALS & COMMUNAL TV SYSTEMS • FREESAT HD, SKYHD & SKY+ • HIDDEN DISH SPECIALISTS & FOREIGN SATELLITE • PLASMA/LCD/LED TV, AUDIO & DVD REPAIRS • TV WALL INSTALLATIONS & HIDDEN CABLES • GOT SLOW BROADBAND? WE INSTALL TOOWAY SATELLITE BROADBAND WITH DOWNLOAD SPEEDS OF UP TO 20MBPS • CCTV INSTALLATIONS IN HD – WATCH ON YOUR IPAD/PHONE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD • WIFI ACCESS POINTS & DATA NETWORK DISTRIBUTION • SONOS HOME AUDIO SPECIALISTS MEMBER UNIT 1B, FOXHOLES AVENUE, HERTFORD SG13 7JG LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 35 YEARS • ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

52 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts November’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners

Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Mrs T Byrne from Stevenage Jam Competition Winner - Jeanne Endersby from Langford

Easy

Hard

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 53 The Villager Prize Crossword Prize £25

Across 1 Effortless (4) 3 Ghosts (8) 9 Kill (7) 10 Part of a helmet (5) 11 Current (12) 14 Winter sport (3) 16 Sports competition (5) 17 Used for listening (3) 18 Amazing (12) 21 Heart beat (5) 22 Simplest (7) 23 Pirate’s hoard (8) 24 Procedure (4)

Down 1 Keep fit (8) 2 Severe (5) 4 Garden tool (3) 5 In spite of (12) 6 Watch carefully (7) 7 Certain (4) 8 Self service stores (12)  12 Playing field (5) Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, 13 Intimidate (8) cut out this page and send to the address below before 15 Implicate (7) 19 Perfect (5) 20 Blemish (4) 16th December 2015 22 Make a mistake (3) Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

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54 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts STEVE HOLMES CERAMIC TILER over 45 years experience

Mosaic, marble, porcelain and stone

Free estimates Mobile: if tea & biscuits are provided 07885 486851 11 Aubries Walkem Herts SG2 7NJ

Steve Holmes 1/2 page.indd 1 23/10/2015 19:09 

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 55 Premier Property Maintenance

Premier Property Maintenance is a multiple trade company operating in and around Hertfordshire and north London. We are a well organized management team with a professional approach to Client Liaison, Supervision and Health and Safety. We operate with a versatile in-house work force with various specialist trades, which results in our ability to provide our Client’s with an ‘all-trades’ service. We pride ourselves on delivering a competitive quality service to new and existing Clients. Premier Property Maintenance offers a comprehensive range of services including;

 Fully managed bathroom  Painting and decorating and kitchen installation including wallpaper  Electrical and plumbing certificates  Roofing - slate and tiled for landlords  Brickwork  All aspects of electrical work  Laying of laminate and wooden covered by NIC installers flooring  Plumbing and heating engineer  Conservatory project  All aspects of carpentry manage and installation work covered  Fully project managed garden  Wall and floor tiling landscaping  Plastering and cornice work  Window and conservatory cleaning www.premierpm.co.uk [email protected] 01438 230943 / 07531 229067

Visit our beautiful Bathroom Showroom ...With more than 50 displays of bathrooms, furniture & fittings Free in-house 3D design service Quality products from leading manufacturers Experienced staff offering impartial advice

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01438 725309 [email protected] www.stevenageplumbing.co.uk

Caxton House, Caxton Way, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2XS

56 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts CM ROOFING Family run business Est. 20 yrs

• Repairs & Re-roof • Lead Specialists • Slating & Tiling • Guttering and Drainage • Gutter Clearing • Fascias & Soffits • UPVC Wall Cladding • Moss Removal • Flat Roofing • Single Ply/3 Layer Felt • Liquid Plastics We will beat any written quotation For more information & free estimate 01438 517166 / 07432 624335 [email protected] www.cm-roofing.co.uk

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 57 Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month. What’s OnIn December

27 & 28 November, 4 & 5 December 3 December 5 December Robin Hood Baldock Floral Society - Christmas Ashwell Christmas Fair 27 Nov 7.45pm, 28 Nov 3pm & 7.45pm, Demonstration 9.30am-1pm 4 Dec 7.45pm, 5 Dec 3pm & 7.45pm 7.30pm Baldock Community Centre St. Mary’s Church, Ashwell Meppershall Village Hall Visitors £8 - pay on the door Free admission Tickets Matinees £6, Concessions £5; Evenings Demonstration by Theresa Rodruigez entitled Many stalls including Arts & Crafts, Cakes & £8 Concessions £7; Last Night performance £9 “Sorry no humbugs allowed”. Christmas sales Cards, Presents & Prizes. The Choir will sing no concessions table and seasonal refreshments. Carols and refreshments will be available. Tickets: Box Office Roger’s Bakery Meppershall Proceeds to the Church Restoration Appeal. 01462 813398 3, 10 & 17 December Baldock Community Orchestra 5 December 2 December 7.15-8.30pm Ashwell’s Winter Wonderland First World War Talks Knights Templar School, Baldock 10am-1pm URC Hall, Ashwell 7pm for 7.30pm Recruiting is open now for a new Baldock Santa’s grotto, rides on Onkey the donkey, The Comrades Club, Godmanchester Community Orchestra. Players of all ages mulled wine, BBQ & cafe, ‘Made in Ashwell’ The Cambridgeshire branch of the Western and stages will be welcome! This exciting Christmas gifts, crafts and wreaths, a raffle Front Association is pleased to present a new orchestra meets every Thursday. Rachel and much more festive fun for the whole members evening where four First World War Dawson will be the conductor. There are family! Tel: 07710 504018 for further details related talks will be given covering a range few opportunities for beginners, learners of subjects linked to the conflict. Non WFA and rusty players in this area so join up now! 5 December members most welcome. Small donation is Please check Christmas dates. The Signals Museum encouraged at the door to pay for the running Email: [email protected] 10am-4pm of the branch. The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open Web: www.westernfrontassociation.com 3, 10 & 17 December to the public. Entry is free but official photo Sapphire Social Club ID such as a driving licence, passport or over 2 December 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin 60s Bus Pass is required to get an entry ticket North Herts Association of National Trust We are a small, friendly social group that from the Guardroom. See website for full 7.30pm caters for the unattached. Our members information. Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin tend to be around 50+ but we have no age Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk Entrance £2 including and punch bar. Varied events are organized throughout Speaker will be Keith Lovell on History the month. No joining fee for the first two 5 December Through Famous People of Essex. Tea/Coffee months. Tel: Joyce 07960 440417 or 50p - payable on entry. Ian 07900 890583 for information 3.30pm & 6.00pm (two sessions) Tel: Colette House 01462 815585 for more Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk Caldecote Church Advance tickets £10 information A repeat of previous successful communal 4-6 December singing events with harmonium 2 December Festival accompaniment and readings. Mulled wine Alabama Hayriders Fri 3-6 pm, Sat 11am-6 pm, and mince pies. Limited seating. Book tickets 8pm Sun 12 noon-5 pm Free admission early with the Caldecote Church Friends The Plough, Church Street, Langford Shillington Congregational Church, 47 Secretary. Alabama Hayriders will be performing some Church Street, Shillington Tel: 01462 742440 well-loved classic Nashville tunes. The group Refreshments, Raffle & Bran Tub. Sunday is Web: www.caldecotechurchfriends.org.uk is available to perform on 31 December. followed by Carol Service and Raffle Draw. All Tel: John Lindsay 01462 701779 for further welcome. All proceeds to Leonard Cheshire information Disability, our chosen charity for 2015. 58 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts This is a small selection of the What’s On for the full listing please go to our website www.villagermag.com What’s OnIn December

5 December 7, 14, 21 & 28 December 20 December Sandy Flower Club Open Demonstration Branch Out Social Club for Single People Biggleswade Antiques Fair Doors open 2pm, 2.30pm start 8.30-11pm 9.30am-4pm Sandye Place School, Park Road, Sandy Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Tickets £10 including refreshments, available Branch Out meets every Monday night and is Road, Biggleswade on the door or in advance a medium-sized Social Club for single people. Entrance £1.50 Chelsea Gold Winner to Demonstrate in It was formed in 1995 to bring together This antiques fair offers a diverse range of Sandy. Sandy Flower Club is pleased to single, divorced, widowed and separated antiques and collectables so whether you welcome National Demonstrator, judge and people, aged 40 upwards, from the Herts, are a professional dealer, an avid collector floral art teacher, Pat Dibben, to our open Beds and Bucks area, to socialise and enjoy or just looking for something special, this demonstration. Pat won Gold at Chelsea one another’s company. The club organises monthly fair is the place to visit. Café serving Flower Show for her stunning designs in regular events, such as dinners, discos, meals, breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. 2009, 2012 & 13. She came 2nd in the World parties, Sunday walks, theatre and concert Tel: 01480 382432 or 07906 647346 Show in Japan in 2005. The theme for the visits, day and weekend trips and holidays. Web: www.madisonevents.co.uk afternoon is “Winter Solstice”. Sales table Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 with plenty of seasonal items to decorate Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 22 December your home for Christmas. Refreshments will The Adventures of Robin Hood! be served at half time and we will raffle off 9 December 2.30 & 6.30pm Pat’s wonderful arrangements at the end of Henlow Branch R N A Stondon Village Hall the day, as well as a general raffle. 7.30pm Adults £7.50, Under 16s £5 Tel: Tickets 01767 226275/01767 682728 Community Centre, The Gardens, Come and see a fantastic performance of The Email: Sandy Tourist Office sue.e.alexander2@ Henlow Adventures of Robin Hood! Refreshments will gmail.com for tickets The Henlow Branch of The Royal Naval be available. Don’t miss it! Association meets on the second Wednesday Tel: 07902 076994 to book tickets or for more 5 December of each month. information Caritas Harmony Christmas Concert Tel: Les Dessent 01767 223212 for further 7.30pm information 3 January St Mary’s, Pirton Winter Wonderland Walk Tickets £10 including glass of mulled wine 10 December 10.30am12.30pm & mince pie The History of Christmas RSPB The Lodge, Nature Reserve, Sandy Proceeds to St Mary’s Church and The Living Doors open 7pm, Talk begins 7.30pm RSPB Members £8, Non-RSPB Members Room. Tickets available from the village shop British Schools Museum, £10, RSPB Wildlife Explorers £3, Children or by telephone. 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin Non-Members under 14 £5 - including mulled Tel: Fay 01763 853696 Tickets £5 including tea/coffee on arrival wine & mince pie Emily Shepperson will be telling the story of We can’t guarantee frost covered trees and 5-6 December how our Christmas customs came to be. From snowy footpaths, but we’ll take a bracing Christmas Tree Festival meaty mince pies to toppling trees and the walk to blow away the Christmas and New 11am-4pm year Christmas was cancelled, enjoy some Year celebrations and see what wildlife is St. Mary’s Church, Church Road, Stotfold unexpected truths and some seasonal objects about as we start the New Year at The Lodge. Come and view the wonderful display of to illustrate. Enjoy hot mulled wine and mince pies around decorated trees in the Church. Stalls, display Tel: 01462 420144 the bonfire at the end of the walk. of children’s art work and refreshments in the Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk Church Hall.

To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 59 gas safe registered

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ByBook Bruce Edwards Review Paradise and Plenty Mary Keen Pub: Pimpernel Press h/b £50 ISBN: 978-1-9102-5812-5

Moving away from general fiction, with half an eye on Christmas and with Business gone a ‘good book’ often the ideal present, especially a bit slow? in this instance for garden Let us help! lovers, a truly magnificent publication has come from Advertising in The Villager is easy. an up-market publisher. To find out more call Victoria on This could well fall into the category of the 01767 261122 ideal ‘coffee table’ book. We frequently suffer low standards of book production, particularly in the or email [email protected] fictional genres, to meet the ever-present problem of heavy discounting especially from that well- known internet gobbler of author’s margins (writers will often spend a year honing a story and then receive far less than fifty pence per copy sold) so it is good to see Pimpernel challenging those ethics. Details like two marker tapes, fold-out photos and well designed end papers add quality and justify the cover price though we mourn the sad necessity for printing in China. That said, the way in which Mary Keen outlines the world of gardening excellence within the Rothschild’s Eythrope private garden is first class and sets almost unbeatable standards. Unfortunately it is outside the scope of a small review to do justice to the comprehensive and clear facets of its presentation, be it chapters on vegetables, fruits, glasshouses or borders; just suffice it to say one would be hard-pressed to find a nicer book to add to one’s shelves - or table - and one that will give pleasure for years.

Suggestion and queries to: [email protected]. We’re always happy to consider specific titles for review, though without obligation. Can’t find a title? E-mail your details and we’ll try to help.” To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 61 “Quality is not expensive, it’s priceless”

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62 Please mention The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory when responding to adverts INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your directory...

Accounting , Mortgages and Financial Services Health Beauty and Wellbeing HB Accounting Services...... 33 Beauty by Nicola...... 7 Blades Barbers...... 21 Animals and Pets Great Ashby Podiatry...... 24 Dogzbody Grooming...... 34 Hypnoslim ...... 9 It’s a Dog’s Life...... 37 Pauline Fitness Classes...... 24 Roebuck Veterinary...... 37 Salon42...... 23 Stevenage Mobile Foot Health...... 23 Builders The Unit Gym...... 2 Abbey Building Services...... 62 You Little Beauty...... 23 Conserv-A-Tech...... 13 Joe Flintham Plasterer...... 45 Home Furnishing C M Roofing...... 57 A1 Carpet and Flooring...... 14 Wymondley Flooring...... 10 Catering/ Deli/ Restaurant Posh-knots Furniture UK...... 17 The Crown...... 64 Home Maintenance/ Improvement Child Care & Schools/ Personal Tutoring Artisan Loft Ladders...... 57 Ardley School...... 24 C M Roofing...... 57 LJ Dance...... 17 JML Window Repair...... 49 Stevenage FC Football Academy...... 28 Locksmith Services...... 45 Geoffrey Ewen Piano & Violin Lessons...... 61 Paint FX...... 46 Premier Paint...... 56 Cleaning Splashbacks of Distinction...... 17 Avery Window Cleaning...... 44 CK Cleaning Services...... 44 Pest Control Feel Clean...... 60 Shires Pest Control...... 34 Great Ashby Dry Cleaners...... 57 Herts Oven Clean...... 43 Plumbers, Bathroom & Kitchen Installations Lilly’s Crystal Clean...... 45 Ascott Plumbing...... 50 1st 4 Plumbing Ltd...... 45 Computer Services Hoopers Plumbing & Heating...... 46 IT Solutions...... 33 Kitchen Ergonomics...... 1 Mark Hopkinson Gas...... 53 Decorators and Handymen Mark Kempster...... 56 CB Decorators...... 55 Mr James Plumbing...... 52 Edward Hawes Plastering...... 61 Steve Grainger Plumbing...... 60 Ian Dunklin...... 50 Stevenage Plumbing Centre...... 56 Joe Flintham Plasterer...... 45 Paint FX...... 46 Photography Premier Paint...... 50 Claudia Griffin Photography...... 30 Steve Holm Tiling ...... 55 Taxi Domestic Appliance Repair Stevenage Airport Taxis...... 38 Shiron Domestic Appliances...... 46 Television, Aerial and Satellite Installation Electrician Hertford TV Service Ltd...... 52 Dot Electrical...... 44 Venues / Local Businesses / Clubs/ Take away Garages, Motor Vehicles Fairytale Marquees...... 19 Home James Cleaning...... 38 The Crown...... 64 Ken Brown Motors...... 41 Mercedes-Benz of Stevenage...... 5 Water Softener Letchworth Volkswagon...... 38 Acoline Softeners...... 27

Gardening Services Ad Gardens Rooms...... 34 Colour Fence...... 19 To advertise in The Great Ashby and Old Town Directory please call 01767 261122 63