The VILLAGER Issue 91 - June 2016 and Town Life LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS Inside this issue Win tickets to the Farr Festival National Picnic Week Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in Langford, Henlow, Shefford, Stanford, Hinxworth, Ickleford, Caldecote, Radwell, Fairfield Park, Shillington, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Gravenhurst, Holwell, Meppershall, Baldock, Stotfold, Arlesey, Hitchin & Letchworth Your FREEcopy 2 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts The VILLAGER Issue 91 - June 2016 and Town Life LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS Inside this issue Win tickets to the Farr Festival National Picnic Week Win £25 in our Prize Crossword

Bringing Local Business to Local People in Langford, Henlow, Shefford, Stanford, Hinxworth, Ickleford, Caldecote, Radwell, Fairfield Park, Shillington, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Gravenhurst, Holwell, Meppershall, Baldock, Stotfold, Arlesey, Hitchin & Letchworth Your Contents FREEcopy Employment Matters...... 38 Still Making an Impact...... 40 Tackling Troublesome Weeds...... 43 The Difficult Patch...... 46 R.A.T.S...... 49 Outdoor Living...... 51 Why You’ll Be Bowled Over...... 53 Animal Heroes...... 54 BMW at the Movies...... 56 National Fish and Chip Day...... 59 Puzzle Page...... 60 Impact Interiors 40 What’s On...... 62 Nick Coffer’s Weekend Recipe...... 65 Death of a Dialect...... 4 Midsummer’s Day...... 67 National Picnic Week...... 8 Children’s Page...... 68 Win a Set of Wilkinson Sword Gardening Tools...... 10 Fun Quiz...... 71 Win a Pair of Tickets to the Farr Festival...... 12 Prize Crossword...... 74 How to get Started with Family History...... 14 Book Review...... 78 Father’s Day...... 17 Wordsearch...... 17 Cuisine (and Wine) Matters...... 18 The Plitvice Lakes The Plitvice Lakes, Croatia...... 20 20 The Festival of Learning...... 22 World Blood Donor Day...... 25 Golden Years...... 26 Don’t Try to Hide from Poor Hearing...... 28 St. John’s Startlight Walk...... 31 The Fabulous World of Nail Art...... 32 Phone Home...... 34 Networking Leads to Collaborations and Business Expo...... 37 9,500 copies delivered free of charge in the following areas: Henlow, Langford, Astwick, Edworth, Hinxworth, Caldecote, Newnham, Radwell, Bygrave, Shillington, Holwell, Pirton, Upper and Lower Stondon, Shefford, Ashwell End and Stanford (Further bulk drops are made to local shops and busineses in Arlesey, Upper and Lower Stondon, Shefford, Baldock, Letchworth, Hitchin and Stotfold)

Editorial - Catherine Rose, Susan Brookes-Morris, Publishers Debbie Singh-Bhatti, Kate Duggan, Trevor Langley, Alison Runham, Villager Publications Ltd Kate McLelland, Carol H Scott, Pippa Greenwood, Rachel Leverton, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Katherine Sorrell, RSPB, Iain Betson, Nick Coffer and Willow Coby Tel: 01767 261122 Advertising Sales/Local Editorial [email protected] Nigel Frost - 01767 261122 [email protected] www.villagermag.com Photography Disclaimer - All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, Noam Armonn and Darren Harbar Photography however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the Design and Artwork content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any Design 9 Tel 07762 969460 statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 History By Catherine Rose Death of the Dialect

The English language is constantly evolving, with the 20th century but has now been overtaken by new words being added to the Oxford English the term ‘buggy’ to describe the modern baby Dictionary every year and various outdated carriage! words dropped (if you are like me, browsing Although we base written English on well- through a 1930s dictionary and seeing how established standards of grammar, spoken many curious terms have fallen out of use can be English is as fluid as a river, ever changing, and as endlessly fascinating). the saying goes, ‘you can never step in the same Put in simple terms, while the world moves ever river twice’. forward with technology and invention, new But words and expressions are not the only words are needed to describe them. At the same aspect of our language that changes. The UK has time, redundant words from a more antiquated a population of around 65 million and although time slowly disappear. For example, the once most of us will speak English as part of our commonplace word ‘wireless’, along with the daily life, there is a wide variation of regional large radio set it describes, has disappeared accents - Brummie, Glaswegian, Scouse, Cockney to be replaced by everyday words describing and Geordie to name but few of the more new technology such as DVD player, laptop and recognisable ones. smartphone (that I was once admonished by Years ago, before globalisation and nationwide a youngster for writing as two words). Words commuting when most people would spend also get abbreviated – for instance, ‘personal their life in the area in which they were born, computer’ has become PC. This shortening of regional accents and dialects were even more words is not at all new. ‘God be with ye’ became defined. (The combination of accent and regional condensed to ‘goodbye’ some centuries ago and expressions or words peculiar to that area is is now abbreviated further to ‘bye’, and the word known as a dialect.) ‘perambulator’ was shortened to ‘pram’ during Today, you can still hear the distinct twang of the 4 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 5 original rural Bedfordshire accent when talking to towards certain regional accents and at one time, old folk who have lived and worked their whole it was a distinct disadvantage to have one if you lives in the villages of their birth, but accents like wanted to find certain types of work and you did these are slowly dying out with people in the not speak the ‘Queen’s English’ or what is also home counties in particular said to be adopting known as ‘Received Pronunciation’. If you look at what is coming to be known as a ‘multicultural old black and white films, you will hear most of London English’ or ‘Estuary English’ – often the actors talking in what now seems this archaic criticised as being a bland homogenisation of the but rather charming way. old Cockney and outer London accents. This extended to the first radio presenters. When Likewise, many of the old regional words my father started working for the BBC in the and colloquialisms have also disappeared. In 1940s, not only did all the radio and television Bedfordshire the term ‘fercalling’ was once used presenters have to speak ‘BBC English’ (Received for ‘messing around’, ‘clack’ meant ‘mouth’, ‘jallop’ Pronunciation) but under the famous Director described ‘medicine’, and ‘buppy’ was a term for General Lord Reith, they were even expected to ‘butter’. And of course, there was the famous wear dinner jackets while broadcasting over the Bedfordshire ‘clanger’ – the unique meat and jam radio. pasty combination that no field worker would set Similarly, when my mother came down from her off for the day without. home city of Sheffield in the 1950s to find work, Interestingly Dr Shaw found that many of these she had elocution lessons to try and diminish words were used south of Bedfordshire and as her northern accent as she knew that it would be far as north London. I can certainly recall my detrimental to her finding a job in London. Even north London Dad (who was born in 1912) using today, some research has shown that R.P. still the word ‘jollop’ for medicine. The gentle but gives British speakers an edge when it comes to distinctive Bedfordshire accent however was landing the best-paid jobs although this could be peculiar to the area. due to the fact that many people who speak with In the 1950s, the BBC recorded the accents of this accent attended private and public schools rural farmers in Hertfordshire. They found an with the social and networking advantages it can accent which turned words such as ‘price’ into often bring. ‘proice’ and ‘mouth’, ‘maooth’. A mid-morning Fortunately, there are numerous archives of snack was known as a ‘bever’ which interestingly voice recordings both by the BBC and the British is very similar to the word ‘bevvy’ for a drink or Library to name but two that have helped to ‘beverage’. chronicle regional accents and their changes over In some ways, these fading regional accents the past 100 years. are a reflection of the fact that old traditions Imagine you could transport yourself three to and ways of life within small rural communities four hundred years into the future. You would are dying out. At the same time, strong accents probably find it difficult to understand a lot of such as Yorkshire and Cornish which remain are the conversation taking place around you despite becoming far more accepted as part of our rich it being in ‘English’. And that is the beauty of cultural heritage and our social moves towards language. It exists only at a single point in time multi-cultural acceptance. and often within a confined geography. That is In the past, there was a great deal of prejudice also its tragedy.

6 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 7 Time of Year National Picnic Week The weather’s warming up, so why not get outside meats, olives, humus and crackers are also now and go for a picnic? commonly included and some choose to create 11-19 June is National Picnic Week: a celebration items from special picnic recipe books. of picnicking that’s been happening in the UK for One of the tricks of picnicking successfully is over a decade. packaging items correctly to ensure food is not Some see picnics as a romantic affair to be shared squashed beyond recognition and drinks don’t with a loved one, fine foods and a bottle of leak. Carrying your picnic on a bike ride can champagne. For others it’s an inexpensive family create extra difficulties but add to the fun. Utilise day out and often a reminder of childhood days. specialist plastic containers, cling film, foil and Or it could be a chance to spend time with friends, sandwich bags, or buy items pre-packed. You choosing to meet at a given location and each could even splash out on a traditional picnic bringing along their favourite food and drinks to hamper. You can now buy a wide range of stylish share. brightly coloured plastic plates, cutlery and cups The Oxford Dictionary describes a picnic as ‘an to enhance your experience. It’s a good idea to occasion when a packed meal is eaten outdoors, remember to take napkins or kitchen roll and especially during an outing to the countryside.’ some wet wipes, as eating a picnic can get a little Whilst many do choose a countryside spot for their messy, particularly if you are sat on a picnic rug picnic there are many other options including rather than at a table. Do take some bags for your local parks, the grounds of stately homes, the rubbish too; never leave litter behind. seaside and riverside settings. It’s not just about the food and drink. Most picnics You can find recommendations for places to enjoy include some form of group exercise such as a your picnic on the National Picnic Week website: walk, cycle, swim or game of rounders, in addition www.nationalpicnicweek.co.uk or you could try to a good laugh and a chat. This makes picnics a asking friends for their preferences. stress-busting, healthy activity. For many people a picnic consists of traditional And if the weather isn’t kind you can still create a items such as sandwiches, crisps, boiled eggs picnic atmosphere indoors. You could even try a and cakes or fruit. Research shows however ‘carpet picnic’ at home. Kids love them! that Mediterranean options such as deli-style By Susan Brookes-Morris

8 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 9 COMPETITION A Passion for Gardening Win top quality carbon steel garden tools plus a gift voucher together worth over £100

For well over 80 years the Bickerdike family have been in the horticultural industry. When his father retired, Mark Bickerdike and his wife Debbie decided to follow the family tradition and start a Garden Centre of their own. In 1999 they opened Bickerdikes Garden Centre, employing the same principles as previous generations of the family, quality, choice, value for money and above all personal service. Bickerdikes Garden Centre has a comprehensive choice of expertly sourced products and services for your home and garden, all delivered with friendly, welcoming, professional and practical advice. The Bickerdikes service extends to their carry to car assistance and free delivery for larger items if you spend £15 or more. That’s not all, the Bickerdikes Reward Card scheme means that every time you make a purchase you’ll earn points towards future purchases. Once you’ve browsed all the plants, containers and pots, tools and equipment, plant feeds and fertilisers, garden furniture, huge range of gifts and gift food you’ll be ready for a rest so visit Norton’s Café. Whether it’s for a quick cup of coffee or a light snack or even lunch, you will be able to sit back enjoy your food while looking out over the beautiful landscaped gardens. There’s a full menu all day starting with breakfast and waitress service too. Competition Answer the question below to win a compete set of seven Wilkinson Sword carbon steel garden tools, all with a five-year guarantee: (hand fork and trowel, garden rake and lawn rake, digging spade, digging fork and Dutch hoe) plus a £20 voucher to spend at Bickerdikes. (Please note the wheelbarrow is not part of the prize) To enter, complete the form below and send to: Bickerdikes Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP. The winner will be picked at random. Deadline: 30th June 2016 BICKERDIKES COMPETITION ENTRY In which year was Name: Bickerdikes Garden Centre Address:

opened?  Tel:

10 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts COMPETITION

Established for over 40 years. Located in 300 acres of stunning Bedfordshire parkland. Experience the di erence at Beadlow Manor with our improved drainage and greens. Featuring two distinct, well-maintained golf courses, your game will always be challenging and varied regardless of handicap. Now under new management with an ever-growing reputation for great food. Memberships from £616* *Please also enquire about our special rates for those currently employed in the military/police/ re services. Summer societies from £24 per person Our customer service and friendly atmosphere truly sets us apart. For enquiries, please contact Laura Pick, Membership/Events Co-ordinator on 01525 860800 or on [email protected] and quote code VL01

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 11 COMPETITION

Win a Pair of Tickets to the Farr Festival 2016

From humble beginnings in 2009 Farr Festival has evolved from a small gathering of like-minded friends into one of UK’s leading music festivals. Bringing an array of international musical talent to the tranquil environment surrounding Farr Festival’s uninhabited forrest. Taking place between 14 – 16th July 2016 the seventh edition of Farr Festival will see us venture deeper into the woods, boasting new areas, stage hosts and of course an eclectic selection of artists and performers to warm your ears. Key to the success of Farr Festival is its size, while we’ve slowly increased size to accommodate the growing demand for a piece of the magic, we look to 2016 as a year to refine all the best bits of the last six years. We can’t wait to have you along for the ride. WE HAVE 5 PAIRS OF TICKETS TO GIVE AWAY To enter, complete the form below and send to: Farr Festival Competition, Villager Publications Ltd, 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Winners will be picked at random. Deadline: 24th June 2016 FARR FESTIVAL COMPETITION ENTRY Name:

Address: 

Tel:

12 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts THE UNFORGETTABLE COMPETITION Close Up and Cabaret Magic of Steve Dean Immerse yourselves and guests in the close up magic of Steve Dean or enjoy a Cabaret Show that includes mentalism and much more. Have you ever witnessed unexplainable events or illusions so convincing that they leave you fascinated and completely spellbound? This is Cabaret, close up mix and mingle and table magic at it’s very best.

Steve is a master of his craft and a member of the prestigious Magic Circle. From a small dinner party to performing on a British Cruise Liner this sort of entertainment is second to none and will give your guests unusual and fantastic entertainment that they can get involved in and will talk about for months to come. (Steve is a member of Equity with full public liability insurance).

Please phone or email for details 07719 261147 • 01767 260671 email: [email protected] www.stevedeanmagic.co.uk

Steve Dean 1/2 page.indd 1 09/03/2016 21:51

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 13 Family History By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

How to Get Started with … Family History You know when a new series of Long Lost Families older ones who have been around longer), and has returned because of the loud sniffs and tears refer to birth, marriage and death certificates if witnessed in our front room, as we watch people you have them to verify information and give you being reunited after years of separation. extra details such as place names. It’s one of several TV programmes designed to Next, visit websites devoted to family research, bring families - past and present, alive or dead - where you can look up information, order together again. Others include Heir Hunters and certificates and record your details. Some of the Who Do You Think You Are? I’m addicted to them all! most popular include My Heritage, Ancestry and A keen family historian since my teens, I can to Find My Past. In most cases there is a charge for some degree tell you who I think I am. Though I their services, but there are various payment was born in the north of England, for generations options and generally they are not too expensive. my dad’s family were farm workers from Suffolk. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints My mum’s granddad was an illiterate cockney hosts a website called Family Search which offers who delivered the marble staircase that sits free membership and exchange of information in Madame Tussaud’s. My maternal grandma with other like-minded people. It is one of the was born in Sheffield and lived to be 98 years largest databases in the world and is a great old. Her parents’ marriage caused a family feud starting place for beginners. that resulted in grandma being placed in an In addition, you can subscribe to websites orphanage at the age of three. (often for free) or purchase software to help you There are sad stories that break your heart, organise and manage your information. Family and heart-warming tales that give hope and Tree Maker and Family Roots are two that I am encouragement. But whatever your research familiar with. In addition to entering names and reveals, you will find it hard to remain unmoved. details, you can upload photos and videos and So, if you have never done family history before, really start building up a picture of what you and how do you get started? First, write down what your relatives are like. you know already. List the full names, birthdays, Once you start your research, you will become marriage and death dates of people known to part of a community that is friendly, helpful and you. Ask relatives for information (particularly really feels like family. Good luck! 14 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Now Open in Henlow! Quite simply our belief at Merry Poppets® is to provide the best child care support and early year’s education for our children and their families. We promote a secure, warm, friendly and caring environment designed to encourage happy confident children that are completely prepared for their move to full time education. Our purpose built nursery at Henlow provides an exceptional environment where children can learn, explore and play to their hearts content. Generous sized classrooms, large outdoor play and activity areas that includes a vegetable and fruit garden, football and basketball court, all designed to keep young, active children healthy and engaged! For an informal viewing, registration or further information please call Sarah Lawton, Rebecca Ogilvie or Amy Green on 01462 850242 or 812470 who will be pleased to deal with your enquiry. Large outdoor garden and activity areas How to find us  Open from 8am to 6pm –

Monday to Friday with early morning DERWENT LOWER drop off available. SCHOOL  For Babies 3 months to 5 years ToA507 Henlow ᮣ  Experienced qualified nursery nurses

 Safe, nurturing and stimulating Oldfield Farm Road environment Derwent Road

ᮤ SheffordTo A507 TRAFFIC  Large outdoor play and activity areas LIGHTS PARENT’S PARKING  Choice of full time or part time care SHOPS Hitchin Road KATIE’S  Dedicated full time cook, preparing ATTIC Station Road HENLOW INDUSTRIAL ᮤ To ShillingtonBIRD IN fresh and nutritious meals everyday HAND ESTATE PUBLIC  FSA highest food hygiene rating - 5 HOUSE  Nursery Education Funded places available for 2*, 3, 4 & 5 year olds  Before and after school club * where applicable

Merry Poppets Nursery, Building 942, Derwent Road, RAF Henlow, Henlow, Bedfordshire, SG16 6DN Tel: 01462 850242 or 812470 www.merrypoppets.co.uk To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 15 16 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Time of Year Father’s

By Kate DayDuggan Dads are often harder to buy for than mums. Rather than plump for a new book, shirt or plant again, why not give him the gift of time instead? You could…. Go for a walk - Check out www.ramblers.org. uk and www.walkingbritain.co.uk for ideas for routes, from a gentle stroll to a full on hike. You Learn a new skill together - Take the time to could even make a weekend of it by taking up the bond while learning something new. Depending challenge of a long-distance route, stopping at on your dad’s interests you could start a cookery B&Bs, cafes and pubs along the way. Take a look course, learn beekeeping, try your hand at archery at www.nationaltrail.co.uk for details of long- or take up horse riding. If you’re struggling to distance walks, such as the Cotswold Way, which commit to a longer course, you could always try a meanders through picturesque villages, beautiful taster session. countryside and ancient landmarks. Take an interest - Whether he’s happiest digging Get adventurous - If your dad is up for a spot in the allotment or playing guitar, join him for an of adventure, you could book in to go abseiling, afternoon or evening and let him show you his skydiving, flying, or rock climbing together. world.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 17 Food and Drink Cuisine (and wine) Matters Westminster Kingsway College was founded in September 2000, following the merger of Westminster College and Kingsway College and now has several sites located in London. Offering both full and part-time courses in hospitality and catering, the School of Hospitality celebrated its 100 years anniversary during 2010. Also, in addition to the School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality, multi award- winning Westminster Kingsway College, which overlooks an elegant, historic square, has travel and tourism, plus business and IT courses available, as well as higher education and foundation degrees and English for speakers of other languages (ESOL). Renowned globally, celebrated chefs, plus food and beverage personnel can be recognised amongst their alumni.

The Vincent Rooms and Escoffier with superb accompaniments. Westminster Kingsway College Restaurant are the dining areas Building up to desserts, bombe 76 Vincent Square, London for visitors. The menus change ceylan (coffee and rum iced SW1P 2PD weekly, with the opportunity parfait) leads enticingly to gateau Tel: 0870 060 9800 to meet some of the finest religieuse. Everything is cooked www.westking.ac.uk young chefs and personnel, and presented to perfection and prior to them gaining positions excellent matching wines, from Restaurant reservations: worldwide. The dining rooms at global origins, for each course, Tel: 020 7802 8391 Westminster Kingsway College can accompany, if desired, Email: [email protected] offer the very best in cuisine that pairing extremely well with all is freshly-prepared and cooked dishes. Course information: by students, well-advanced in College open days happen Tel: 020 7963 4181 their careers and are overseen by regularly and group visits can Email: [email protected] experienced chef lecturers. The easily be arranged, as well as front of house service is of the taster events. Westminster highest, exemplary order, too. Kingsway College can Naturally, all dietary be justifiably proud of its requirements can be catered for. achievements. The rooms A French-themed tasting menu, are also available to hire for with vegetarian options, for groups, business lunches and example, could include canapés dinners, plus conferences, etc. inspired by France, frogs legs The website has a wealth of and vegetable consommé with information about the college quail’s egg. Main courses include and its operations. fish and braised ox cheek etc, all

As always, Enjoy! Trevor Langley 18 MENU online Come rain or shine, we’ll be barbecuing every summer soon! Sunday 12 noon–3pm.

Our chefs will be cooking up delicious cuts of meat, served at your table with fresh, tasty salads. And we’ve already got the Pimm’s on ice!

Market Square Potton | 01767 260221 BBQStarting on Sunday 12 June www.coachhousepotton.co.uk

To advertiseTCH BBQ 2016.indd in The Villager 1 and Townlife please call 01767 261122 17/05/2016 12:2619 Travel

The Plitvice Lakes - Croatia Set up in 1949 in northern Croatia, the Plitvice easy, rides on an electric boat across Lake Kozjak Lakes are the oldest national park in the country or a panoramic train in the upper levels. and the largest, covering close to 300 square But nothing beats a leisurely stroll where lush kilometres. There, on the edge of the rugged scenery and fresh air quieten mind, body and soul. Dinaric Alps, rocks and water have created a The lakes beckon, more bewitching the closer unique landscape protected by UNESCO and one of you are. Azure, silvery grey, deep blue or emerald the most impressive karst formations in the world. green, shimmering in the sun or mirroring a Yet just 400 years ago, the whole area was darkening sky, they are for ever changing as light inaccessible, draped in mystery and legends from and shade filter through the abundant foliage buried treasures to the kind-hearted Black Queen along the banks. who gave water to the poor. In the 18th century, it The lower lakes glitter through a rocky canyon, was described in turn as ‘five beautiful lakes in the the upper lakes nestle among forested slopes densest wood’ and ‘the devil’s garden’. But those rising to 1,279 metres. Mediterranean and Alpine who come here today know that neither is true: plants mingle with fir, spruce and beech and in there is no devil in this natural paradise but there the remote areas of the north-west, trees are up to are 16 beautiful lakes for all to see. 700 years old. Over 1,100 plant species have been The twelve upper lakes and four lower lakes are all recorded in the park, including 75 endemic and connected, divided by natural limestone barriers 55 different orchids. Gentians and lilies add colour shaped by water, wind and plants and creating in the undergrowth and grassy bells and wild myriad waterfalls. The highest is the aptly named hyacinths grow alongside endangered species ‘Large Waterfall’, swollen by the Plitvica river and such as the carnivorous round leaf sundew. Spring tumbling down 78 metres into the final section heather, beard grass and mint are also found along of the lower lakes. Just a stone’s throw away, the lakes where maple and sumac trees turn all the source of the Korana is said to be the most shades of red and gold in autumn. beautiful in karst country, heading through the Wild cats, lynx, deer and wolves all live in the canyon towards a bucolic village dozing in flower park but the brown bear has become the true meadows. symbol of the Plitvice Lakes. Yet visitors on a day Meanwhile, footpaths and single-file boardwalks trip from the beach are far more likely to spot the meander from one magical lake to the next, butterflies, an Orange Tip, a Painted Lady, a Red festooned in waterfalls, canyons and caves, and Admiral, to name just a few, and at least some of whatever the crowds, little disturbs the peace but the 105 species of birds, woodpeckers, grebes, the rumbling of cascades and bird song. There are larks, finches and others, or perhaps a rare golden popular viewpoints and secluded corners, steps eagle hovering in the thermals high above the here and there and for those who want to take it glistening lakes. 20 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 21 Hobbies

By Kate Duggan

The Festival of Learning We tend to think of education as something which Thousands of people took part last year. stops when you reach adulthood, but lifelong Comments included: learning can open up many new avenues. From “It was like someone had turned a light switch back learning a new hobby, such as sewing, ballet, or on, that had been turned off for lots and lots of years.” art, to mastering a skill that can boost your career- “I’m not too old!” progression, adult education can enrich your life “I just felt a sense of worth.” and open up new opportunities. “I decided that I was going to take myself to The Festival of Learning aims runs from 1st May university because my children needed someone to to 30th June and aims to inspire people to learn give them a better life and I was the only person that a new skill. There are taster sessions and activities could do that.” planned across the country, many of which are “I have found my passion in life.” free. Events include careers advice sessions, “You’re always learning, right up until that last breath college open days and ‘have a go’ sessions, where goes. That’s what life is.” you could try your hand at everything from There were more than 3,000 events held across computing to cookery. the UK last year, and this year’s Festival of Learning If you haven’t heard of the Festival of Learning looks to be even bigger. Most people have before, that may be because it was called Adult something they would like to learn, whether it’s Learners’ Week for 24 years. I think the Festival of how to manage the family finances better, how Learning sounds rather more enjoyable, and there to plaster a wall, how to programme a computer, are certainly some promising events and activities or how to write a screenplay! As Adele Tilley says, lined up for this year. “Good luck on your journey and remember – many The Festival of Learning culminates in an awards things that are worth doing are not easy and many ceremony in September, where inspiring learners, things that are easy are not worth doing! Go for it – tutors, education providers and employers are what do you have to lose? In fact, maybe you have recognised for their achievements. Last year’s more to gain?” winner in the learner category, Adele Tilley, credits education for helping her to leave an abusive If you fancy taking up the challenge of trying relationship, let go of friends and situations that out a new experience for yourself, were dragging her down, and carve out a new life check out the Festival of Learning website at: for her and her children. www.festivaloflearning.org.uk 22 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Come and join our Book Group

Our Baldock and Letchworth branches of Shires will be holding a book club for the recently bereaved in the local area. It’s a perfect opportunity for people to meet once a month over a cuppa and biscuits, and come together through the love of books. If you enjoy a good read and would like to share your enjoyment of a book, then please come along and join us, and feel free to bring a friend. Where: The United Reformed Church, Whitehorse Street, Baldock When: the first Tuesday of every month at 10am till 11.30am If you would like to know more, please contact Donna at Shires on 01462 491149

Inc. Shires Because every life is unique 40 Whitehorse Street, Baldock | 01462 491149 1 Howard Park Corner, Letchworth Garden City | 01462 486618 Also at: Kempston, Bedford, Dunstable & Luton www.cpjfield.co.uk

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 23 Luxury fitted kitchens

Fully qualified UK Kitchens 4 U offers a full kitchen fitting service. We have over 10 years of kitchen-fitting experience and have satisfied more than 1,000 customers in the local area.

Your new kitchen is in safe hands: Our team is Part-P and Gas Safe certified.

Satisfaction guaranteed We pride ourselves on providing high quality kitchens at an affordable price. With a range of designs available, from modern and contemporary to the more traditional of styles, we guarantee that you will be thrilled with your new kitchen.

“Adrian was really helpful throughout the whole process. We are overjoyed with our new kitchen.” – Julie, Bedford

The personal touch We know how important your kitchen is to you, and that’s why we offer a fully personalised service. Each project is carefully managed to your own timescale and budget, with a certified Contact us today team on hand to make sure that you are kept informed and For further information or for a no obligation quote involved at every stage. contact us today by telephoning We guarantee a professional service that will fulfil your needs 01767 692968 or emailing [email protected] and be delivered on time, and on budget.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM: 87 HIGH STREET, BIGGLESWADE

24 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Health World Blood Donor Day Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk World Blood Donor Day on 14th June is an annual World Health Organisation event. This year’s A special scale constantly measures your donated campaign celebrates blood donors, highlighting blood until the 470ml mark is reached, which usually the idea that blood connects us all. It seeks to raise takes 5-10 minutes. You shouldn’t feel any pain. Once awareness of the need for regular blood donation, the needle is removed, a sterile dressing is applied inspiring more people to become blood donors. to your arm. Why Should You Give Blood? After Your Donation It’s easy to find reasons not to donate, but also You should keep the pressure roll on for 30 minutes easy to assume blood will be available if we need and the dressing on for 6 hours. You’ll be sent to the it. However, in the UK we need over 6,000 people refreshment area to relax and encouraged to have a to give blood every day to meet our needs; around snack and at least 2 drinks before you leave. 67% is used to treat medical conditions, 27% in You should avoid having a hot bath and using your surgery (including emergencies) and 6% to treat donation arm for anything strenuous for the rest of blood loss after childbirth. the day. Most people feel fine, but if you feel dizzy, Who Can Give Blood? sick, hot or shaky, drink plenty of fluid and lie down If you’re fit, healthy, aged 16 to 66 and weigh over until you feel better. If bleeding recurs, sit down, 7 stone 12lbs or 50kg, you should be able to start raise your arm and press on the area until it stops. donating blood. Men can give blood every 3 months If you become unwell (other than a cold or cold and women, every 4 months. sore) within 2 weeks, or believe there’s a reason your However, some things can affect your eligibility, blood shouldn’t be used, you should call 0300 123 such as organ transplantation, travel to certain 2323. countries and existing medical conditions. You can Become a Lifesaver check your eligibility on the NHS webpage www. Think of saving a life and you probably imagine blood.co.uk/who-can-give-blood. rescuing someone from an accident or a fire. But by Preparing To Give Blood becoming a blood donor, you could save a life every You can register online at www.blood.co.uk, by time you donate. So why not register today? calling 0300 123 2323, or at a blood donation session. To donate, book an appointment or drop in at your next local session. To make your donation as comfortable as possible, ensure that beforehand you: • Eat regularly. • Get a good night’s sleep. • Drink plenty of fluids (but avoid alcohol for 24 hours). • Wear loose, comfortable clothing. • Avoid unusually strenuous exercise. • Know your medical and travel history. What Happens When You Donate Blood Pre-booked appointments shouldn’t take over an hour; take a friend or book to distract you if you’re nervous. You’ll be given a drink to keep you hydrated. Your identity and health check details will be confirmed, and your iron levels will be checked by testing blood from your finger. A small cuff is placed on your arm to maintain a light pressure and the donation site will be cleaned with antiseptic before the needle, connected to a blood bag with your unique donor number, is inserted. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 25 History

Golden Years Memories of 50 years ago I’ve just found my cheque book. It wasn’t easy because another charge card operation, arrived in the UK too. the last time I used it was in July, when I bought a (Barclaycard also had an American connection: it was car, and in fact the last time I used it before then was a franchisee of the Bank of America’s BankAmericard Christmas 2013 when I ran out of ideas for presents scheme, later rebranded as Visa). and gave my kids cheques instead. At first, Barclaycard and its rivals were similar in Oh, and in my pocket I have £1.56... operation: since extended credit was illegal in Britain What does all this have to do with anything? Well, on until 1968 you had to clear your Barclaycard every 29th June 1966, Barclay’s Bank launched Britain’s first month, just as with Diners Club and American Express. credit card (the Barclaycard, since you ask), and money But it was always intended to be more democratic than as I and others of my vintage once knew it has been the charge cards, which were aimed at the well-off and dying ever since. the prestige trades. It didn’t charge a fee, for a start; The credit card and its contemporary, the charge card, there was no salary qualification but there was a credit were responses to the illusion that cash and money limit; and given Barclay’s established position in the UK was the same thing. Despite the fact that the Lombards it was accepted by a much, much greater number and had disproved the idea centuries earlier by providing variety of retailers. international credit facilities in which limitless sums Without going into too much detail, here’s how plastic could be moved around without anyone so much as has fared in those 50 years. 1969: the cheque card sniffing a ducat, people in the post-War age still had arrives. 1972: the Access credit card is a co-operative of to carry cash to cover all their spending. And in post- several banks. 1987: the debit card is born. 1995: debit War America, spending was getting more and more card transactions exceed credit card transactions. 1998: extravagant. debit card transactions exceed cheque transactions. One of the luxuries the newly-rich post-War Americans 2004: plastic overtakes cash. One could go on, but you were starting to spend more and more lavishly on get the picture. Plastic rules. was dining out; and the first charge card, Diner’s Club, Which raises a question I’m qualified to ask but not enabled them to do just that. If you didn’t customarily answer? What exactly is money? It’s clearly not the carry enough cash to pay for a blow-out for yourself pennies like cartwheels I took to the sweetshop as a and all your friends – or for yourself and that one child. It’s not a fistful of fivers, either: a fiver isn’t really special friend – and provided you had a fat enough a fiver at all; it’s just a picture of a fiver. Money as a salary, all you had to do was pay an annual fee and reflection of itself? It’s no more ephemeral a concept your card would cover the bill at any participating than money as a seemingly endless chain of electronic restaurant. It wasn’t credit, though – the balance had to ones and zeroes. be cleared in full every month. Diner’s Club launched And if money doesn’t really exist, why can’t I have more with 200 members and 27 participating restaurants; by of it? the end of the year it had 20,000 members and other high-value retailers were clamouring to be allowed in. Happy 50th birthdays to David Platt (10th), Finders Services, launched in Britain in 1951, was Eric Cantona (21st), Samuel West (19th), a straightforward copy; it was swallowed up by JJ Abrams (27th), and John Cusack (28th). Diners Club in 1962, and in 1963 American Express, Cake and botox to you all! 26 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Golden Years Memories of 50 years ago

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 27 Life Begins...

Don’t try to hide from By Kate McLelland poor hearing When did you last mishear Perhaps it’s not surprising, parts in the earmould. The someone’s name, fail to follow then, that some people try to Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) fits the plot of a TV drama or ask conceal their hearing problems deeper into your ear canal than someone to repeat something (although it’s not usually a secret an ITC aid. they said, two or three times? to friends and family, who have You can obtain hearing aids According to the website NHS to deal with the consequences). through the NHS (although Choices, there are approximately Unfortunately, some people the ITE, ITC and CIC models four million people in the UK remain in denial until they are mentioned above are not with hearing loss who could too old to adapt to using a standard issue). You’ll have a benefit from wearing hearing hearing aid. wider choice if you buy privately, aids but who either ignore Hearing experts agree that the but this can be a more costly their condition or refuse to do sooner you start to use a hearing option. Audiology specialist anything about it. aid, the more you’ll get out Louise Hart from Action on So why is it so hard for us of it. Many people are put off Hearing Loss says: “The NHS to admit that our hearing is from wearing aids because they can procure high-quality digital deteriorating? believe it will make them look hearing aids. For most situations, As a society we have become old, but modern devices are a they perform very well and the much more compassionate great improvement on those that waiting time to get one is short.” about aging issues such as were available even a decade If you or someone you know is memory loss and dementia, but ago. worried about their hearing, try sadly there is still a tendency to Choosing a hearing aid the free online hearing test at regard age-related deafness as Hearing aids are powered by tiny www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk. something of a joke, inspiring batteries and nowadays almost If you’d like to know more about caricatures of crotchety senior all models are digital, rather hearing loss, the charity Hearing citizens with ear trumpets. than analogue. You can choose Link can help by providing Human beings often use humour between several different types, information, services and to defuse their fears and it depending on your personal support. Visit www.hearinglink. may be that we make light of tastes and needs. org, or telephone 0300 111 1113. deafness because the prospect The Behind-the-Ear (BTE) model Hearing loss can be worrying for of losing our hearing scares us. does what it says: resting behind you and your family, but don’t let Hearing loss can be profoundly the ear, it transmits sound outdated prejudices prevent you isolating, leading sufferers to through either an earmould or a from getting the help you need. lose confidence and become small, soft tip that enters the ear In future there’s no reason why withdrawn. Not only that, canal. In-the-Ear (ITE) sits in the using a hearing aid shouldn’t be research has shown that it can ear canal and the shell of the ear, just as acceptable as wearing a lead to cognitive impairment while In-the-Canal (ITC) fits inside pair of reading glasses. and depression. the ear canal with its working 28 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Abbie’s Hairdressing mobile hairdresser Fully qualified hairdresser capable in all aspects of hairdressing. Based in Langford. Call now for an appointment 07762699611. Or contact me via https://m.facebook.com/thebeautyroomshine

Abbies hairdressing 1/4 advert.indd 1 13/07/2015 14:18

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 29 CHAMBERLAIN MASSAGE CLINIC

Swedish Massage Deep Tissue Massage Sports Massage Injury Rehab Kinesio Taping Clinics in Langford, Letchworth and Wrestlingworth Dean Chamberlain B.Sc www.chamberlainmassageclinic.co.uk 07902547391 or 01767631866 [email protected] Facebook: Chamberlain Massage Clinic

30 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Local News Come and join us for St John’s Starlight Walk Would you like to take part in this year’s Starlight Walk and remember a loved one? Join us as we walk around the grounds and local countryside on the 24 September 2016, it’s also a great way to raise money for your local hospice. Get those walking shoes ready and book early to receive your discounted rate: www.sueryder.org/stjohns/starlightwalk The night kicks off with entertainment on the main stage including a clubbercise warm up in-line with our Ibiza theme, so there is sure to be something to keep you motivated! After crossing the finish line, hikers will be rewarded with a luxury goody bag, in the knowledge they have all been stars themselves for a night and done something incredible for people living with incurable illness. What do I need? The route will be lit where possible, but you may like to bring your own torch, or better yet, support a great cause and buy one of ours! There will be hot drinks, food and merchandise available. If you would also like to volunteer on the night please call 01767 642412, alternatively you can make a donation by emailing [email protected]. Last year’s event raised £65,000. This year St John’s Hospice requires £3 million to keep its doors open and continue to provide the care so many patients St John’s and their families need. Please accept our apologies and note that dogs may not be brought along to this event. Starlight Walk It’s back, bigger and better than ever 24 September 2016 Busk Till Dusk 2016 The event takes place on August 13 at St John’s Join our Starlight Walk around the grounds and local countryside for a night of Hospice, from 3pm to 10pm. remembrance and entertainment. This festival-in-a-day really has something for everyone. From classical to rock, pop and everything Gates open 8pm Start 10pm 10k & 5k in between you won’t be disappointed. routes It’s an event that you won’t forget, while raising lots Get your early bird offer now of money for your local hospice. Adults £15 Children £7.50 We welcome music lovers to bring their blankets, Family ticket (2 adults 2 children) £40 picnics and painted faces. There will be something From 1 May to 1 June - available for four weeks only for everybody including a variety of food traders and our very own St John’s Bar serving real ales, cider and www.sueryder.org/stjohns/starlightwalk Pimms, with all profits coming to the hospice. It’s going to be a really fantastic day so bring your friends, family and anyone who loves to get down

Sue Ryder is a charity registered in England and Wales (1052076) and in Scotland (SC039578). Ref. No. 05020 © Sue Ryder. April 2016 and boogie. For more information or to buy your tickets go to: http://www.busktilldusk.com/ To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 31 Beauty By Kate Duggan

The Fabulous World of Nail Art People have been painting their nails for images of seaside deckchairs or Breton t-shirts. thousands of years. A decade ago one could only Stripes across the nail can be slightly harder to get choose between a coloured polish or a French right, so you may prefer to work from the nail bed manicure. But recently nail art has taken off, with to the tip. elaborate designs featuring everything from All that glitters - This look is easy to create, but geometric patterns to miniature landscapes. effective. Paint your nails with a high shine metallic Nail art ranges from simple stripes, to incredibly polish, such as Nars’ in Milos Rich Gold. While intricate creations, some of which can take hours wet, sprinkle over some fine glitter. Alternatively, to produce. choose a polish which already has added sparkle, For the fancier designs and best results, visit a such as L’Oreal’s Color Riche Gold Dust. nail salon. There are plenty of stand-alone salons Ombre - With this look you want to create a across the country, as well as smaller nail bars in gradient of colour. Start by painting the lightest spas, department stores and beauty salons. If you shade onto your nail and leaving it to dry. Then have time, patience and a steady hand however, paint a band of the light shade onto a flat glass you could try the following designs at home, surface, and a darker shade above it. Altogether, particularly if you have a willing friend to help the painted area on the glass should be just longer out… than your nail. Mix the shades together slightly Monochrome - Try painting half a nail black, and where they meet. Lightly press a makeup sponge the other half white, or go for a more detailed into the polish, then roll it onto your nail. design, such as zebra print. Embellishments - Stick on nail gems are easy to Flags - Many countries’ flags are quite simple apply, although they don’t tend to last very long! to recreate. You could paint each nail with the Try a line along the cuticle, or one small gem on same flag, or go for a full United Nations range of each nail. designs. Flags are ideal for celebrating sporting For best results, allow plenty of time for each events, such as UEFA Euro 2016 or Rugby Union. colour to dry, before applying the next shade, to Polka dot - Paint each nail with a base colour and avoid smudging. You may also want to add a clear allow to dry before dotting on different colours. top coat, to help your creation last longer. Stripes - Fun for summer, stripes can conjure up Have fun! 32 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 33 Technology Phone Home Are you ready to control everything in your house with a smartphone app?

In the 1930s, magazines as one of the next big things, your habits to work out the best predicted a really exciting so they’re encouraging firms to times and temperatures for thing called the smart home - a make even more smart devices heating your home, and can talk home where everything was - although inevitably, Apple to your phone, see that you’re automated and easy to control. and Google’s systems aren’t heading home from work and It’s taken its time to turn up, but compatible with one another make sure the house is nice and smart home technology is finally so you need to pick sides. That’ll toasty for your arrival. Sky’s latest here. From your boiler to your change in the longer term, Sky Q system can send video - light bulbs, there’s an app for because it’s in nobody’s interest including your recordings - from almost everything. to have rival, incompatible your Sky box to any other room Most smart home technology systems for such basics as light in the house, or to your phone is designed to connect to your switches and heating controls, or tablet when you’re far from Wi-Fi network, either directly but at the moment it’s really home. or via a little box called a hub. important to check compatibility There’s a catch, of course. Once it’s connected you can - so for example if you want to Because this is all brand new then control it from your phone. control smart home technology technology, it’s quite expensive There are smart thermostats, via an Apple iPhone or Apple - so if you fancy a Bluetooth- such as Google’s Nest and British Watch, you should look for enabled DeLonghi coffee Gas’s Hive, that can automate devices that support Apple’s machine that you can command your heating and even turn the HomeKit. If you don’t, you could from the sofa, it’ll cost £1,500. heater up and down when you’re end up in a situation where you Even relatively simple devices away from home. There are need a different app for each can be expensive, so for example smart bulbs, such as Philips’ Hue, smart home product you buy, smart plugs for remotely turning that can completely change the which is hardly making things things on and off cost around colour of your room with a single simple. £40, while a starter kit of three tap of your phone’s screen. There If you’re wondering what’s Philips Hue bulbs and a hub will are smart baby monitors such so smart about smart home set you back £149. Upgrading as BabyPing that stream video technology, the answer is from Sky+HD to Sky Q costs from of your (hopefully!) sleeping that by connecting different £99 to £249 and then comes child to your phone, and there things together you can make in at £56 per month. As ever, is a whole selection of smart interesting things happen. For being first on the block with new cameras that you can use to example, Philips’ Hue bulbs technology doesn’t come cheap - monitor your house. work with Apple’s Siri voice so maybe the really smart homes And that’s just the tip of the recognition, so you can say “Hey will wait until the technology iceberg. Both Apple and Google Siri! Set scene to movie!” and the gets cheaper before taking the have bet on home automation lights will change. Nest learns plunge. 34 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts We build our mortgages around you

All homes are different. The same applies to the need for home financing. Therefore we offer individual and flexible solutions for all your mortgage needs and requirements. We can find a financial solution to suit your needs whether buying a new home or remortgaging.

Julie Donnelly - Individual Banking Manager Tel: 01462 441488, email: [email protected]

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

handelsbanken.co.uk/hitchin

Handelsbanken is the trading name of Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ). Registered Office: Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ), 3 Thomas More Square, London, E1W 1WY. Registered in England and Wales No, BR 000589. Incorporated in Sweden with limited liability. Registered in Sweden No, 502007-7862. Head Office in Stockholm. Authorised by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) and the Prudential Regulation Authority and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority, and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 35 TEMPLARS CROSS LODGE

www.templarscrosslodge.co.uk Close to Baldock town centre in spacious surroundings this motel style Bed & Breakfast offers off road parking. • CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST • LARGE LUXURY EN-SUITE ROOMS • FREE WIFI INTERNET ACCESS • SKY TV/DVD PLAYER • FRIDGE IN ROOM • PRIVATE LOC ATION • CLOSE TO TRAIN STATION • MAJOR CREDIT CARDS TAKEN Tel: 07970 162753 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] North Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 5DN

EBAY COLLECTIONS Local & Reliable

36 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Local News Networking Leads to Collaborations & Business Expo The Women In Business Network (wibn.co.uk) is in it’s 11th year and Louise Yexley has been involved for 9 years running 5 groups locally in Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth, Luton and Sandy. “Some of my members have been part of the membership for 7, 8 or 9 years which says to me that networking really does work .The 3 Counties Expo initially came about as a result of members wanting to put on a business showcase and it has grown from there. We now have a day packed full of business opportunities including free workshops, guest speakers, networking and the Expo itself. Guest speakers include Roberto Perrone from BBC3 Counties Radio, Stefan Thomas (Networking for Dummies) Journalist Helen Gent, and Ben Kench who is the author of “Selling For Dummies” and the creator of ‘The business Booster’. Exhibition stands cost only £75 and you will be able to take advantage of visiting the free workshops on the day. It’s open to all businesses and is being held on 30th June 2016 at Venue 360 in Luton. Business breakfast networking is 7.30am-9am with the expo 9am-1.30pm and lunchtime networking 1.30pm-3.00pm. You can find out more about the expo by visiting www.3CountiesExpo.co.uk or follow us on facebook and twitter @3CountiesExpo

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 37 Employment Employment Matters An Employee Raises a Grievance at Work What Do You Do? Carol H Scott HR and Business Consulting Ltd Employees raise grievances when they are order to get a good understanding of the needs of unhappy with something at work and want it to be the employee and set their expectations of what a dealt with in a formal way and employers should realistic outcome could be. aim to settle any grievances as soon as possible Sometimes an employee raises a grievance after close to the issue. they have been invited to a disciplinary meeting A grievance is a complaint about something that and it may be appropriate to put the disciplinary the employee is not happy with e.g. proceedings on hold and resolve the grievance • terms and conditions of employment first. Every case is different and the facts of each • health and safety case will dictate whether this is necessary or if • working relations both procedures can be run at the same time. • bullying and harassment The grievance may require further investigation • new working practices/organisational changes by the Manager to gather more facts and if it • discrimination. relates to actions/conduct of another colleague, A grievance may be raised verbally or in writing the investigation will involve speaking to that and even if an employer has no formal grievance colleague and any other staff who have witnessed procedure in place, it is an implied term of a what happened. contract of employment that they are dealt with Based on the evidence available, the Manager fairly in a timely manner. will make a decision on whether the employee’s The aim is always to resolve a grievance informally grievance should be upheld and action to be and quickly but if that does not work or employee taken, or not upheld if there is no evidence to wants to go the formal route, invite them by letter suggest that the complaint is substantiated. to a attend a grievance hearing including their The employee should be invited to a meeting and right to be accompanied by a work colleague or advised of the outcome which will be confirmed trade union representative. in formal a letter giving the employee the right Wherever possible grievances should be heard by of appeal if the grievance was not upheld, or only an impartial Manager who has not been involved upheld in part. and is not the subject of the grievance. In cases where the grievance involves problems The purpose of the hearing is for the Manager to in working relationships between two or more explore the issue(s) and ensure full understanding employees, mediation through an independent of exactly what instigated the complaint and third party can be considered and allows the decide whether the employee has a point or not. parties involved to examine the effect of their The Manager should also ask the employee what behaviour on each other and the business, and a suitable outcome to the complaint would be in find a mutually agreeable outcome.

38 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts We take time to listen and find the best way forward Contact us to arrange your free initial 30 minute visit (We are happy to come to you for a small extra charge) Wills Our staff have successfully drafted Wills for many years; truly we are experts. £135 inc. Single Will £199 inc. Mirror Wills

Probate Helping you prove a Will after death. £545 inc. Plus Court fees [unless it is a huge estate] to obtain a Grant of Probate from the Court

Lasting Power of Attorney Arranging for a relative/friend to act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. £350 inc. Plus Court fees to draft & register with Public Guardian Office

Contact us for some friendly advice: 01462 674767 Abbeyhill 507 Broadway Letchworth SG6 3PT [email protected]

Reassurance when you need it most

Neville Funeral Service Neville Funeral Service (inc George Squire & Son since 1976) (inc David J Binks since 2005)) 24 Clifton Road Sheff ord SG17 5AE 96 Walsworth Road Hitchin SG4 9SU t: 01462 813258 t: 01462 444910 e: sheff [email protected] e: [email protected] www.nevillefuneralservice.com

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 39 Inpact Interiors By Catherine Rose

Still Making an Impact When The Villager last interviewed Matthew Blythe, owner of Henlow-based Impact Interiors and Flooring, it had just celebrated its first in soft furnishings and interior design. They anniversary. Now three years since its opening, aim to bring a personal touch when it comes the shop has become firmly established in the to supplying and fitting their products which area. We caught up with the company that has range from attractive wooden shutters, to a showroom at the end of Henlow High Street curtains, carpets, upholstery and more. Home and provides a one-stop shop for all your interior consultations are free. design needs. “We have grown through word of mouth Impact Interiors can boast that it is well and truly reputation and have now firmly established a family firm with Matthew’s wife Nina, nephew ourselves as a local provider of quality interiors” and father-in-law all working in the company to says Matthew. “Ninety percent of our sales come offer a whole solution in interior décor, whether from referrals and recommendations so we must you are looking for a new floor, made-to-measure be doing something right!” curtains and blinds, or simply some lovely Matthew has found that sales of the company’s accessories for your home. wooden shutters have really taken off and With a background in carpentry and flooring, Impact Interiors has now become the specialist Matthew is a full member of the Chartered local supplier. “If you see a house with wooden Institute of Building and Nina has experience shutters in the villages around Henlow, they will 40 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts probably be ours” says Matthew. “We are now looking to expand to Letchworth, Hitchin and Biggleswade and have just become members of the British Blinds and Shutters Association.” What’s more, Impact Interiors guarantees to beat any quote in the county for supply and fit of wooden shutters. Their made-to-measure curtains are also ready in 10-14 days which Matthew believes is “matchless”. And on new builds, such as those at the King’s Reach estate in Biggleswade, Impact Interiors has been providing temporary courtesy blinds free of charge. The company’s emphasis is very much on friendly neighbourhood service and wherever possible, it aims to source local suppliers for all its products and services. For instance, the company’s curtain makers are in Potton and the upholsterer they use is also local. From fitting flooring, wiring electrics, or hanging wallpaper, Impact Interiors is also environmentally conscious, ensuring they use ethically sourced hardwood for their shutters. Customers can now take a virtual tour of the shop if they go onto Google, search for Impact Interiors & Flooring and click on the right hand image that says ‘see inside’. “We have a whole new display area” says Matthew “including modern and innovative blinds”. They now also have a Facebook page with Visiting the shop in person is easy too as there reviews that has already received 1100 likes. is free parking near the showroom and in The “When we opened, a lot of people doubted we Crown pub car park opposite. would survive” says Matthew. “We have certainly proved them wrong.”

Impact Interiors & Flooring Opening times: 15a High Street, Henlow, Beds SG16 6BS Tues - Sat 10am-4pm You can also call them between www.impact-interiors.co.uk 8am and 8pm seven days a week Facebook: Impact Interiors & Flooring, Henlow on 01462 511057

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 41 42 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Garden

By Pippa Greenwood www.pippagreenwood.com Tackling Troublesome Weeds Why is it that weeds always seem to grow faster • Avoid composting any weeds which are and more vigorously than pretty well anything you setting seed, have set seed or have particularly actually choose to plant in your garden? Top of pernicious and resilient roots (dock and my weed hate list is hairy bittercress (Cardamine dandelion are classic examples of these). hirsuta), which produces a little rosette of leaves • When removing deep-rooted weeds such as topped with a short spike with tiny white flowers, dock and dandelion, always make sure that you and I despise it because it spreads so quickly. take out every fragment of root, as each piece Weeds are typically described as ‘any plant which left behind has the potential to form a new plant. is growing in the wrong place’ such as your The best tool I know for removing dandelion flowerbeds, your vegetable garden, your shrubbery roots is my little red-handled weeder, see www. or your lawn. pippagreenwood.com/products/good-growing So what makes weeds such a nuisance? for more information. • They feed and take up moisture in great • Don’t take a short cut by rotovating ground quantities and sometimes compete actively with which is heavily infested with weeds such as nearby garden plants. dandelions, docks, nettles or couch grass, as you’ll • They can create shade and stunt the growth of be chopping up their roots and helping to create nearby plants. more plants! • Those with a ground-cover like effect can cause • If you want to sow annuals or vegetable crops the growth of garden plants to be distorted or directly and minimise later problems with weeds, held back. then try the stale seedbed technique. Prepare • Weeds may harbour pests or diseases. the area you intend to sow in advance of your So what can you do to try to minimise the problems proposed sowing date, which allows dormant they cause without spending hours with a hoe or weed seeds to germinate; remove the weed sprayer? seedlings and then sow or plant up as you wish. • Get on top of weeds early in the year - removing This should give you fewer problems later on. as many as possible before your garden plants • Many weeds can be kept at bay if you cover the start to grow strongly makes weeding easier and soil surface with two to three inches (5 – 7.5 cm) cuts down on the amount of competition the of mulch. weeds cause. A hoe is one of the quickest ways to • Use weedkillers with caution and ensure you effectively kill off most annual weeds, but it needs choose one appropriate for the problem you to be a good one. have. Weedkillers are designed to kill off plants • Disturb the soil as little as possible when you and they can do a lot of damage if allowed to weed to prevent dormant weed seeds from contaminate your garden. germinating. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. • Some people avoid anything other than an early com for a really useful selection of Pippa’s weeding and a late weeding, as they find that favourite gardening items including SpeedHoes, regular weeding seems to bring more seeds to SpeedWeeders, ladybirds to control greenfly, the surface and encourages germination. Nemaslug, biological controls, pop-up crop covers, • Remove your weeds before they set seed. signed books and lots more besides. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 43 44 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 45 Garden View The Difficult

Every garden has a couple of problem patches. dependingPatch on the variety chosen. I’m often asked which plants I’d recommend for a Hostas are also a good choice, though in damp problem area and two which always crop up are conditions you’ll need to be on slug-watch! If your damp shade and dry shade. shade is very dense then don’t choose golden Let’s deal with damp shade first. It’s actually less varieties as the colour will fade. Hostas look of a problem than you might expect. Okay, you’ll wonderful planted with primulas, which also do never grow a good lawn there, bulbs will rot, and well in these conditions. sun-loving annuals won’t thrive, but there are loads Some ferns love damp shade, including the of plants that will look wonderful. The trick in the Maidenhair fern, Adiantum pedatum; most case of damp shade is to go for leaf colour, plant varieties of dryopteris, and the ostrich feather fern, form, and texture. Matteuccia struthiopteris. Ajuga is excellent for ground cover. A. metallica has Dry shade is definitely trickier. I don’t recommend purple leaves and tiny blue flowers and A. reptans fighting Mother Nature but I do think dry shade ‘Variegata’ is a pretty variegated cream and green is one area where she sometimes needs a hand, variety. so enrich dry soil with compost, well-rotted horse Astilbe does very well in damp shade; it has manure, or spent mushroom compost before impressive red, pink or white flowery plumes planting, as this will encourage some moisture retention. Bergenias are attractive but tough enough for dry shade and their leathery leaves colour well in the autumn, particularly Bergenia cordifolia purpurea. The pink flowered varieties are the most commonly seen but there are red and white varieties too. I have a ‘Bressingham White’ which is quite lovely. My favourite plant for dry shade is the Euphorbia. Not all varieties are suited to these conditions but E. amygdaloides with it’s red stems and lime-green flower heads will generally do very well. Solomon’s Seal (polygonatum multiflorum) is another standby. It looks like a large lily of the valley and the variegated variety is very pretty. The trick with problem areas is to embrace them as part of your garden Treated as a gardening By Rachael Leverton challenge they can be fun to plant and you’ll feel a tremendous sense of achievement when you do succeed. Happy planting!

46 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts T&G131x93AdvertReady.pdf 07/06/2015 13:34:43

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 47 48 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Local News

Rehoming Animal Telephone Service This is Pepsi and she is looking for her forever home. She about 3½ years old; a sweet girl who likes attention on her own terms. She is quite vocal and likes to sit on your lap to be fussed. A home where she is the only cat would be preferable for Pepsi. If you feel you could offer Pepsi a home, please call Liz on 01767 681157 or alternatively please e-mail Philippa at [email protected] who will be pleased to forward your enquiry on to the team. We are also looking for someone who could occasionally foster a cat on a temporary basis in their own home. For more information contact Liz on 01767 681157

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 49 BICKERDIKES Garden Centre











GILKS FENCING LTD All Types of Fencing, Gates & Railings, SUPPLIED & INSTALLED

Call for a FREE Survey & Quotation Visit our Display Area at: Gilks Fencing Drove Road, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds SG19 2HX Tel: 01767 650 615 Email: [email protected] www.gilksfencing.co.uk 50 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Home

Syon relaxer set, £599, Wyevale Garden Centres, 0344 272 3000; www. wyevalegardencentres.co.uk

Outdoor Living Longer days mean it’s time to head out to the stone slabs, gravel, bricks, decking, wood chips garden. However large or small your outside or perhaps tiles that complement your kitchen space, some careful planning will ensure that it is flooring for an inside-outside look? Just like flexible enough for playing games, entertaining indoors, your choice of garden flooring can or simply putting your feet up and relaxing, signal a change from one area to another. It is writes Katherine Sorrell also a question of practicality and cost: specify Today’s gardens are more like an outdoor room, stone slabs for the dining area, for example, and used for playing, cooking, socialising and resting; save money with woodchips in the children’s they are multifunctional spaces that look good play area. but also work hard for every member of the family. Verticals are just as important, providing privacy, If your garden is in need of an update, the secret screening and dividing, adding visual interest is in the planning - how will you use the space and offering places for climbers to grow. Think and what do you want from it? Sketch a plan of about fences, hedges, walls, arches, arbours and your garden on graph paper, and gather samples pergolas – a simple metal archway over a path of the materials you intend to use – such as entwined with fragrant honeysuckle makes a slate, willow or terracotta – to ensure that they lovely focal point, while a small wooden pergola co-ordinate. If in doubt, consider consulting a can link two different areas of the garden and professional, who will undoubtedly come up offer a shady spot to sit in. with practical solutions and inspirational ideas Finally, furniture. Consider waterproof you would never have thought of. upholstery, outdoor sofas and all-weather rattan, In a large garden, the ideal layout includes choosing designs and colourways that link separate areas for dining, relaxing and playing with the whole space. You can even accessorise – perhaps with a ‘secret’ children’s area at the outdoor sofas with scatter cushions and interior far end, including structures such as a swing, throws or blankets for when it gets chilly. If space trampoline, climbing frame or tepee. A peaceful is restricted, opt for folding furniture and play area away from both the house and the kids is equipment that can be put away, or build seating ideal for a hammock or a deck chair – perhaps into your hard landscaping – an extra-wide low near some scented flowers or under a tree for wall makes a great bench seat and you can even shade. And the dining area is best closest to the build in hinged storage for cushions. house, with space nearby for a barbecue or even The time is right to start planning your stunning an outdoor kitchen. summer garden, and creating more useable Consider changes in levels – they add interest space outdoors is far more economical than and are easier to deal with than slopes, but a new basement or roof conversion – in fact, avoid lots of steps between the door and the turning outdoor space into an extra outdoor dining table. Flooring is key, too - will you choose room may add value to your property. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 51 Gardening a Pain? 2 FREE Let us take the Strain! shrubs We are here for your landscaping projects too for new orders  Patios  Artificial lawns  Deckings  Fencing  Turfing  Re-design and more  One off ‘nightmares’ cleared Book your weekly or fortnightly maintenance visits NOW Prices from just £14.00 per week For more details or for a free quotation call 01462 262103 or email: [email protected]

52 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Hobbies

By Kate McLelland

Why you’ll be bowled over by this popular game

A team of uniformed players lined up to bowl on although the main objective – to get your bowls as a perfectly manicured green is one of the most close to the jack as possible – remains the same. evocative sights of the summer. Lawn Bowls is Another more traditional variant of Lawn Bowls is a gently-paced team game that – like cricket Crown Green Bowls, which adds an additional level matches on the village green – seems to reflect of challenge as it is played on an uneven surface. a British way of life that has barely changed in In France the game of Pétanque is played on a hundreds of years. hard dirt or gravel surface, either in public parks or Bowling is popular for two main reasons: it’s dedicated areas called boulodromes. Hollow metal a highly social game, offering a strong sense balls are bowled towards a ‘cochonnet’ (which of camaraderie within the club itself and the translates as ‘piglet’), which is the Gallic version potential to develop wider networks through of the English jack. Pétanque is surprisingly inter-club matches. It is also accessible to new popular in the UK too, and the English Pétanque members, being one of the easiest team sports Association website (www.englishpetanque.org. to pick up (although regulars will tell you it takes uk) lists 16 regions where the sport is played. time and skill to perfect the techniques required). There are thousands of bowling clubs across Lawn Bowls is played in singles, pairs, triples and the UK where you can pick up the basics and four player teams. Players use weighted bowls eventually go on to play in leagues if you want to known as ‘woods’ that are heavier on one side, take part at a more serious level. The game can be giving them a bias. The bowls are rolled along a enjoyed at any age (provided you are reasonably flat grass bowling green towards a smaller ball, or mobile) and you can play all year round, as the jack, with points scored for the woods that stop sport goes indoors in the winter. closest to the jack. The team captain (or ‘skipper’) The British Isles Indoor Bowls Council (www.biibc. always plays last and takes responsibility for org.uk) can provide information on indoor clubs directing the team’s shots and tactics. while the sports section of the BBC website (www. Despite its status as one of Great Britain’s most bbc.co.uk) provides contact information on the popular sports, up to now Lawn Bowls has had various Lawn Bowling associations for England, the reputation of being more suitable for the Scotland and Wales, each with a search facility to older generation. That view has recently been help you find your local club. challenged by an upsurge of interest in Barefoot No one is said to be more than 15 miles away from Bowls, a relatively new Australian variant of the their nearest bowling ground, so next time you come game that has attracted more young people to across the classic scene of players assembled on a play. Barefoot Bowls uses four players per team green, don’t just walk on by: find out how you can with a game length of between 30-60 minutes, become involved in one of the UK’s best loved sports. To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 53 Pets

Animal Heroes Become a local hero John Bunyan – one of Bedfordshire’s most well- As well as donating items, making regular visits to known residents, and a local hero – once said: the shops and buying from them, helps enormously “You have not lived today until you have done in bringing in funds to help the animals. something for someone who can never repay you.” Additionally, donating is now made easier through The RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch is a local using easyfundraising.org.uk selecting RSPCA animal charity experiencing a crisis in the number Bedfordshire North. This app enables you to gain of ‘someone’s,’ coming into their care. donations to the charity whilst doing your online There are so many ways for you to help: shopping. It doesn’t cost you – the online retailer Adopt – Choose a rescue cat, kitten, dog or bunny. you are shopping with donates to your chosen Check the website or call the branch to find out charity. who is waiting for adoption – there is bound to be Legacies – Over half of the national RSPCA’s someone you love. work is paid for by gifts people leave to them Volunteer – We rely entirely on volunteers and in their Wills. By specifically naming the RSPCA couldn’t help animals in our local area without the Bedfordshire North branch in your Will, you can wonderful people who give their time to run and ensure that your gift goes directly to local animals. support the branch. Events – we run, or attend, a number of local We need foster carers for our cats and rabbits, and shows and events. See the local press for details or home checkers. We also need help in our shops check our website – and come and support us. – whether it’s on the till, or behind the scenes Supporting the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch sorting out donations – and volunteers to help ensures that this local charity will always be here with fundraising. for animals – protecting them and giving them Support the shops – There are around 215 new beginnings. So, come on – be an animal RSPCA shops in England and Wales – Bedford is hero, follow Bunyan’s advice – ‘live today’ and ‘do fortunate in having two. One shop is in Thurlow something for someone’! Street, by the bus station. The second shop is on 6 Thurlow Street, Bedford, MK40 1LR 01234 the High Street, opposite Debenhams. The charity 930304 has found that a shop is the most effective way of 49 High Street, Bedford, MK40 1RY 01234 353362 raising regular funds. Please email [email protected] with We’re constantly in need of stock – and two any enquiries. shops has doubled the need! Please donate any unwanted clothing, bric-a-brac, DVDs, CDs, books, ANIMAL HEROES is one of a series of articles brought toys, jewellery, small furniture or electrical items. to you by the RSPCA Bedfordshire North branch Whether it’s a single item, or several bags, we’d be delighted to see you! www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk 54 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Boarding Kennels and Cattery

The kennels your dog would choose! 10% discount for new customers • Top quality kennels and cattery • Fully licensed and insured • Clean and hygienic environment • Dogs £12.50 to £15.00 • Cats £7.75 • 10% discount for family groups • Our dogs are happy dogs! Better kennels are only minutes away... www.tynehillkennelsandcattery.co.uk 01462 850606

Shillington Road, Lower Stondon, Beds, SG16 6JX

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 55 Motoring BMW at the Movies There’s no greater advert for a car using the screen on his phone. Deirdre, with Robert De Niro than a starring role in a movie – After jumping out of the car, Bond pursuing in a Peugeot 406. and for BMW there have been a drives the BMW into the assailants Through tunnels and against the few! before driving off the car park and motorway traffic, the M5’s sporting One of the biggest was when BMW into a rental car shop several floors pedigree is shown off, until it is took over the Bond franchise with below. taken down by a pot shot from a centrepiece in 1995 blockbuster BMW’s most recent appearance in Jean Reno that hits one of the GoldenEye. Bond, played by the Bond franchise was with the tyres, causing the M5 to flip. Pierce Brosnan, drives a Z3 with Z8 roadster in The World Is Not We jump forward with our Bond girl Natalya Simonova, Enough. Sadly, this met with an final car on the list to 2011, played by Izabella Scorupco, in unfortunate end when a helicopter with the fourth instalment of the passenger seat around Cuba wielding a circular saw cut the car the Mission: Impossible series. before the final mission. As with in half at a caviar factory. It was Mission: Impossible – Ghost many Bond cars, the Z3 was fitted with surface-to-air missiles Protocol involved one of the kitted out with the latest gadgets, that had taken out a helicopter best concept designs, the Vision including a parachute braking previously and it even had six cup EfficientDynamic from 2009, the system, all-point radar, missiles holders, so it was very useful. pre-cursor to the i8 electric sports housed behind the headlights, As a main character, Jason car. and the iconic ejector seat. Statham’s E38 735i in 2002’s The It was involved in the final act Brosnan returned in Tomorrow Transporter is pretty key, with where Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Never Dies which included one much of the early action involving Cruise, needed to intercept the of the most impressive Bond cars, the 7 Series. One of its best film’s protagonist and prevent the thanks to the amount of tech on- moments is the chase following start of a nuclear war. The V ED board - a 750iL with bulletproof the bank robbery, where Frank swept in and out of the Mumbai windows, electrified door handles, drives superbly around the streets traffic and with a special HUD with tear gas, spike dispenser and and ends up jumping off a bridge navigation screen it looked pretty missiles concealed in the roof. onto a car transporter lorry. cool too. Most impressively, the car could Noted for its driving sequences, Other honourable mentions for be remote controlled from a 1998 film Ronin - set in Paris and BMW include the black and orange touchpad in Bond’s phone. Nice - involved plenty of action, E24 633 CSi from Back to the In the famous chase through a and with the film nearing its final Future II, the E28 5 Series from The multi-storey car park, Bond drives act, a spectacular car chase took Bourne Supremacy and Robert De from the back seat to remain place involving a BMW E34 M5 Niro’s E31 850i from heist movie, under cover and see everything driven by Natascha McElhone’s The Score.

By Iain Betson 56 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 57 Lambourn MOT and Service Centre Ltd

Your LOCAL MoT, tyre and service centre in Shefford 01462 811333 Pay us a visit – we’re near Morrisons! Lambourn MoT & Service Centre Unit 10, Old Bridge Way, Shefford, SG17 5HQ Visit: lambournservicecentre.co.uk

A1 GARAGE DOORS TRADING STANDARDS APPROVED COMPANY

Transform the look If your door looks of your home in four like this it will most hours. Call today likely need new standard doors cones and cables, always in stock. or maybe just a door reset.

Emergency Call Out 24/7: 07808 899 351 01582 495259 A1 will not be beaten on Price or Service Specialists in garage door conversions | Sectional garage doors, roller doors and automation Approved by Trading Standards | Fully insured and all work guaranteed All engineers CRB checked Whatever your needs, one call does it all

NEW DOORS | AUTOMATION | ROLLER DOORS | SECTIONAL DOORS UP AND OVER | PARTS AND REPAIRS CALL TODAY AND WE’RE ON OUR WAY! | FREE ON SITE ESTIMATES www.a1-garagedoors.co.uk

58A1 Garage Doors 1/2 page.indd 1 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding15/03/2016 to adverts 13:53 Time of Year

By Debbie Singh-Bhatti

National Fish and Chip Day Despite competition from rival takeaway dishes, are actually a valuable source of protein, fibre, iron fish and chips continue to be the nation’s favourite and vitamins, and when cooked properly contain fast food, with around 382 million portions being only around 10% fat. consumed each year! How fish and chips are served can vary. Some Fried fish and chips were first served together shops cook in oil, others in lard or dripping. Most around 1860 and ‘The Oldest Fish and Chip Shop areas offer mushy peas and curry sauce, but my in the World’ can be found in Yeadon near Leeds, (Northern) family were most disappointed when we which has been open since 1865. arrived in Dover after a chip-free week in France to Cheap, readily accessible, hot and nutritious, fish discover that gravy was not on the local menu! and chips became a staple food among factory and To celebrate the nation’s favourite dish, National mill workers in the industrial north, and continued Fish and Chip Day is being held on Friday 3rd June, as such during both World Wars, when it remained which will bring together everyone involved in free of ration restrictions. creating this iconic British food. Please visit www. Though often criticised as unhealthy, fish and chips nationalfishandchipday.org.uk for more details.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 59 Codeword 1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

9 10

11 12

13 14

15 16

17 18

19 20

21 22

23 24

25 26

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.

60 ROOFLINE PRODUCTS INSTALLED BY THE PROFESSIONALS PVC-U soffits, fascia, guttering and cladding in flat and woodgrain effects and a choice of colour

10 year guarantee Very low maintenance Quality approved zinc-free plastics to eliminate rusting Seamless colour-matched products across the entire range For a free quotation please call Langford Windows 01462 701828 www.langfordwindows.com [email protected]

Langford Windows advert.indd 1 24/01/2014 14:19

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 61 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 June 4 May-28 September 2 June 4 June Open Every Wednesday Life in Miniature Wallington Village Hall Fete Luton Hoo Estate Walled Garden 11am-2pm 2-5pm Wallington Village Hall 10.30am-3.30pm £5 including guided tour British Schools Museum, 41/42 Queen Street, Join us celebrating the Queen’s Birthday. There Pre-book dedicated tours for more than 15. Hitchin is a fantastic array of entertainment planned Produce from the Garden Stall. Enjoy a light £2.50 per child, Adults free including the Letchworth Town Band, the ever- lunch in beautiful surroundings or homemade Drop-in. Be a miniature hero - visit our ‘Life in popular Ramrugge Clog Morris Dancers and a cakes, snacks and savouries. Come and visit Miniature’ exhibition, complete the trail, make myriad of games for the young and old. this inspirational volunteer-run garden revival. a stick puppet and put on a play. All children So turn up on the day for some family fun! Follow signs for the Walled Garden. No entry via must be accompanied by an adult. Please note Luton Hoo Hotel. (Sat nav LU1 4LF). this session takes place in the Infants’ school 6, 13, 20 & 27 June Tel: 01582 721443 www.lutonhooestate.co.uk (ground floor space that includes reception/ Branch Out Social Club for Single People meeting room, the exhibition gallery and 8.30-11pm 1 June discovery room). The rest of the museum will Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin British Artillery in 1917 be shut during this session and only adults Branch Out meets every Monday night and is 7pm for 7.30pm accompanying children will be admitted. a medium-sized Social Club for single people. The Comrades Club, Godmanchester Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk It was formed in 1995 to bring together single, A talk by Geoff Spring on the use of artillery by divorced, widowed and separated people, aged the British Army in 1917. Non WFA members 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 June 40 upwards, from the Herts, Beds and Bucks most welcome. A small donation is encouraged Baldock Community Orchestra area. The club organises regular events, such Web: www.westernfrontassociation.com 7.15-8.30pm as dinners, Sunday walks, theatre and concert Knights Templar School, Baldock visits, day and weekend trips and holidays. 1 June This exciting new orchestra meets every Tel: 01438 233657 www.branch-out.org.uk Be A Victorian Child Thursday. Rachel Dawson will be the conductor. 10am-12.30pm and 1-3.30pm Anyone can join – you don’t have to live in 8 June British Schools Museum, Baldock! There are few opportunities for Henlow Branch R N A 7.30pm 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin beginners, learners and rusty players in this area Community Centre, The Gardens, Henlow £4 for children aged 4+, Adults free so join up now! The Henlow Branch of The Royal Naval Visit the Museum and find out what it was like Email: [email protected] Association meets on the second Wednesday of to be a Victorian child. Do the laundry, prepare each month. Tel: Les Dessent 01767 223212 vegetables and try out household chores. Don’t 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 June worry there will be time for Victorian games Sapphire Social Club 9 June too. Pre-booking essential. Children must be 8.30pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin International Iconographer Jen Allen accompanied by a responsible adult. Sessions We are a small, friendly social group that caters 7-9pm Gallery 1066, Willow Mews, take place in the boys’ school at the top of the for the unattached. Our members tend to be 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock slope. around 50+ but we have no age bar. Varied Gallery 1066 is delighted to announce a Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk events are organized throughout the month. No demonstration by outstanding figurative Bookings: BSMEvents.yapsody.com joining fee for the first two months. artist and iconographer Jen Allen. Jen’s unique Tel: Joyce 07952 678021 or Ian 07900 890583 portraits are highly collectable across the globe 1-4 June Web: www.sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk and her work is often auctioned after being Oklahoma created before a live audience. Please join us 7.30pm, Sat matinee 2.30pm 4 June and experience Jen’s speed painting skills during St Christopher School Theatre, The Signals Museum 10am-4pm a live demo on the night. Strictly an RSVP event Barrington Road, Letchworth The Signals Museum at RAF Henlow is open to so please contact the gallery to reserve your Letchworth Arcadians present Oklahoma. Music the public. Entry is free but official photo ID such place! Tel: 01462 896164 by Richard Rogers. Books & lyrics by Oscar as a driving licence, passport or over 60s Bus Email: [email protected] Hammerstein II. Tel: Box Office 07511 519387 Pass is required to get an entry ticket from the Web: gallery1066fineart.com Web: www.letchworth-arcadians.co.uk Guardroom. Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk

62 Please mentionPlease mentionPlease The mentionVillager The Villager The and Villager andTown Town and Life Town Life when Life when when responding responding responding to to to adverts adverts adverts Deadline for What’s On entries is the 12th of the previous month.

What’s On In June 9 June 14-16 June 18 June The Picture Postcard - Eye witness to History Cords Contemporary Choir – Free Adult Rock/ Midsummer Celebration Doors open 7pm, talk starts 7.30pm Pop Choir Taster Classes 2-5pm Clophill Eco Lodges, Clophill British Schools Museum, 14 June 1.15pm - Haynes Village Hall Come and join our Midsummer Celebration 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin 15 June 7.15pm - Fairfield Park Lower School including pony rides, jewellery making, willow Picture postcards are a great way to ‘watch’ 16 June 1.15pm - Henlow Pavilion crafting and hat making, dance displays, Old society change and there are over 10,000 of New Bedfordshire resident, vocal coach and Church Ale at the bar, face painting, BBQ and them in the museum’s collection! Presented by jazz singer Nicola Gawthrop, will be leading the our centrepiece ... the comedy play by William the Museum’s Archivist Mark Andrew Pardoe. sessions. All choirs will focus on singing pop, Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Booking recommended. Tel: 01462 420144 rock, soul and gospel music, and are open to Tel: 07935 911207 Twitter:@clophilleco Email: [email protected] all abilities. No previous singing experience is Web: www.clophillecolodges.org.uk Web: www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk necessary and you do not need to be able to read Facebook.com/Clophillecolodges music. Tel: Nicola on 07894 047559 9 June Web: www.nicolagawthrop.com/cords more 19 June Baldock and Clothall WI information book your free place Biggleswade Antiques Fair 9.30am-4pm 7.30pm Baldock Community Centre The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Visitors £3 including refreshment and raffle 15 June Biggleswade Entrance £1.50 ticket. An opportunity to hear about the Blood Stevenage RSPB 9.30am Whether you are a professional dealer, an avid Runners. Visitors welcome. A morning walk round the RSPB Reserve at collector or just looking for something special, Fowlmere. Meet in the car park at 9.30 AM. this monthly fair is the place to visit. 12 June Grid ref TL 409459. Café serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Spring and Artist’s Fair Tel: 01480 382432 www.madisonevents.co.uk 10am-4.30pm RSPB The Lodge, Sandy 17 & 18 June £3 per car entrance You Just Never Know 25 June The Spring and Artist’s Fair is set in the grounds 7.45pm Memorial Hall, Hallworth Drive, Armed Forces Day 10am-4pm of The RSPB headquarters with lots of exciting Stotfold Tickets £10 Broadway Gardens, Letchworth and interesting stalls to browse through. Treat Fairfield Players will be performing a play Royal British Legion will be providing the focus yourself to interesting gifts, arts, crafts, plants entitled “You Just Never Know”, by Liz Dobson. for UK Armed Forces Day. Including marching and produce and visit the artist’s zone and RSPB When Mo decides to surprise her husband with and military bands, veterans associations, cadet binocular and telescope demonstration. an anniversary party, little does she know that organisations, stage entertainment, many stalls she will be the one left speechless and horrified. and funfair. Tel: Di Adkins 01462 677725 12 June But the story doesn’t end there, because no-one Email: [email protected] Beeston Open Gardens 2-6pm could have predicted what happened next... Adults £3, Accompanied under 13s free Fish and chip supper served during the interval. 26 June Each year an enthusiastic group of gardeners Bring your own alcohol. Entry is by ticket only The Sunday Dance Club 7.30-10.30pm prepare to welcome visitors to the village. All which are available by telephone or email. Spirella Ballroom, Bridge Road, Letchworth the gardens vary in size and styles. Parking is Tel: Box Office 01767 631265 or 01462 624369 Try an Early Summer Evening Dance. Ballroom, at the north end of The Green. Refreshments of Email: [email protected] Latin and Popular Sequence. Ample free parking delicious homemade cakes, a raffle and a plant and licensed bar. Tel: David 01234 300179 stall available all afternoon. All profits will be 17 & 18 June donated to local organisations and charities. What’s Hapnin’ 29 June-2 July www.beestonopengardens.org.uk 7.45pm Tickets £10, Concessions £8 The Accrington Pals 7.45pm Meppershall Village Hall Pirton Village Hall 13 June The Meppershall Players Present ‘What’s Tickets: Weds £8, Thurs-Sat £10 Icknield Quilters 7.30pm for 7.45pm Hapnin’ a Comedy by Karen Mitchell. Charity A special production to commemorate the Battle Baldock Community Centre £4 Performance in aid of Shefford Methodist Church of the Somme 1916. The Accrington Pals is a Speaker will be Linda Turner on ‘Landscapes’. ‘Raise the Roof Fund. story about a particular Lancashire town. Tickets Web: www.icknieldquilters.co.uk for more Tel: Box Office Roger’s Bakery Meppershall 01462 are on sale from 1 June from the Pirton Village information 813398 Shop or online. Web: www.pirtonplayers.org.uk

To advertiseadvertise in in The The Villager Villager and and TownlifeTown Townlife Life please please please call call 01767 01767call 01767 261122 261122 261122 63 NOT ALL SHUTTERS ARE THE SAME Bespoke interior window shutters FREE no obligation quotes

Blinds • Awnings • Shutters 01438 817999 www.mdmblinds.co.uk | 15 station Road Knebworth

HERTS OVEN CLEAN Herts Oven Clean is a domestic oven cleaning specialist in Hertfordshire.

Non-caustic, fume-free solution individually prepared for each customer.

Ovens, Hobs, Grills, Extractors, Agas, Microwaves and Gas Barbeques.

Call Richard on 01438 813492

Bring a sparkle to your kitchen today.

64 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Three Counties Radio

Rump of lamb, pesto mash, ratatouille, rosemary jus Serves 4

The beauty with this recipe, created by St Albans’ First, marinade the rumps with snipped thyme, Sopwell House’s brasserie head chef, Dan Woosey, rosemary and chopped garlic. is that you can use the different components with In a hot frying pan, add a little oil and carefully seal different meals - the pesto mash is a winner, the the lamb on all sides. Place the steaks on a baking simplified ratatouille goes with any other meat tray, ready to cook. or fish. And you’ll be amazed what adding a little For the mash, cook the potato chunks in salted rosemary does to humble gravy granules. boiling water, taking care not to overcook them as Perfect for a dinner party, the whole dish can be this will make the mash watery. After draining the prepared in advance, leaving just the sealed lamb to potatoes, place them back in the pan and put them oven roast and the mash, ratatouille and jus to warm on a very low heat, stirring to remove the moisture. up. Plump lamb rump works really well here but you Add the butter and cream to the potatoes. Mash can replace it with leg steak or cutlets if your prefer. them, season them and finish by mixing in the pesto bit by bit, until the right flavour and consistency is INGREDIENTS achieved. 4 x 170g rumps of lamb For the ratatouille, place a pan on a medium heat, Sprig of rosemary and a Sprig of thyme add a little oil then cook the diced veg until “just 1 garlic clove soft” (4 or 5 minutes). Season, then add the tomato 1kg King Edward potatoes, peeled and cut puree. Cook while stirring for 2 minutes on a low 100ml green pesto heat, then add the white wine and reduce until Knob of butter nearly evaporated. Add the vegetable stock a little 50ml double cream at a time until the vegetables are beautifully coated 1 red pepper and 1 yellow pepper, diced small with the tomato sauce. 1 aubergine, diced small For the gravy/jus slowly heat up the gravy and add 1 courgette, diced small the snipped rosemary, simmer for a few minutes and 1 tbsp tomato puree it’s ready. Sprig of thyme To cook the lamb in the oven and cook 12-14 50ml white wine minutes for a nice medium rare. Leave to rest at least 100ml vegetable stock 6 minutes before cutting and serving. Store-bought jus or gravy granules Assemble the mash and ratatouille on the plate, 1 sprig of rosemary, picked and snipped carve each steak into 2 or 3 even pieces and place on the mash, then drizzle the rosemary jus over for a Pre-heat the oven to 180C/ Gas Mark 4 lovely dinner party dish. Hear wonderful recipes on Nick Coffer’s Weekend Kitchen every Sunday morning on BBC Three Counties radio at 11am. You can also join Nick every weekday afternoon at midday for brilliant local guests with great stories to tell and all the music you want for your early afternoon.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 65 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

Taylor Made Joinery Ltd Traditional Bespoke Joinery Products and Services Windows | Doors | Staircases | Conservatories | Furniture Oak | Hardwoods | Softwoods | Accoya® Specialising in Grade listed Heritage joinery

www.taylormadejoineryltd.co.uk [email protected]

T: 01462 338 313 M: 07855 834 424 We are proud to be a facebook.com/TaylorMadeJoineryLtd member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen Unit C1 Manor Farm, Upper Stondon, Beds, SG16 6LJ

66Taylor made joinery.indd 2 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding17/03/2015 to adverts 10:20 Time of Year By Debbie Singh-Bhatti Midsummer’s Day The longest day of the year comes all too soon in my opinion. Just three weeks after the arrival of summer on 1st June, the summer solstice (21st June) has passed and we have winter to look forward to again. It’s all to do with which calendar we follow. The astronomical calendar has summer starting in March when we put our clocks forward an hour, whereas the meteorological summer runs from June to August. This mixture of calendars is indicative of the mixed- up celebration Midsummer’s Day has become. Like Midsummer’s Eve was a time for fairies (hence many other ancient traditions, it has its roots in Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream) and pagan Britain but has been adopted and adapted to flowers, which were placed under the pillow to fit in with Christian beliefs. induce important dreams about future loves. Our ancestors - in awe of the power of the sun - Christians celebrate the birth of St. John the Baptist celebrated the summer solstice by lighting bonfires on Midsummer’s Day (24th June). Mystery plays, to protect against evil spirits. They also built stone based on biblical events, are performed at this circles, set in alignment with the rising of the sun, time of year, particularly in cathedral cities such as such as those at Stonehenge. Chester, Lincoln and York.

LOVE YOUR HEATING TOASTY TOES

Worcester Bosch Love your heating Vaillent GAS Ideal Boilers provides all your Baxi heating needs from an Glow Worm annual boiler service SOLID FUEL Potterton &BIOMASS Vokera to a complete new Keston install, for a first class Viessmann service at a standard WATER Alpha rate just call us!

Insured by Corgi 01767 666102 567002 07913 234712

Love Your Stove Ltd trading as 07940 797452 Love your Heating Langford, Bedfordshire

To advertiseLove your heating in The 1/2 Villager page.indd and 1 Townlife please call 01767 261122 16/06/2015 12:3567 68 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Electrician www.rooneyelectrical.co.uk

Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job? Fault finding/repairs Extra lights and sockets New fuse boards Rewires P.A.T testing Landlord inspections

Qualified electrician Fully insured Reliable service  Tidy work Free quote  Satisfaction guaranteed Call Nigel on: 01767 221088 / 07941295883

• Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue ALL CARPENTRY & BUILDING Systems • Installation and Supply SERVICES PROVIDED • Fireplace Renovations Double Glazing • Windows & Doors • Stove Accessories Granite Work Tops • Trade sales welcome Kitchens & Bathrooms Wood & Laminate Flooring SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Loft & Garage Conversions Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 10am – 5pm Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement Mini Digger & Driver For Hire Call James 7 days a week on

Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, 01462 231734 St Neots, PE19 5XT [email protected] 07595 752466 01480 812281 | 07786 854946 [email protected] www.cromwellstoves.co.uk Shefford, Bedfordshire

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 69

Cromwell stoves 1/4 page.indd 1 30/07/201516 03 James 17:31 Bonfield quarter.indd 1 05/02/2016 14:27 Jane’s

AlterationsBESPOKE EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

Call Jane on: M 07976 966 284 T 01462 671 760 LETCHWORTH

70 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Fun Quiz - Summertime 1. Which group had a number one hit single in 1970 with In The Summertime? 2. By what nickname is the character of William Simmonite better known in the TV show Last Of The Summer Wine? 3. In Australia, the summer solstice occurs during which month of the year? 4. Which soap opera is set in Summer Bay? 5. In what year did a dachshund called Waldi become the first official mascot for the Summer Olympics? 6. Which city is closest to Balmoral Castle, a popular summer retreat of the Queen? 7. In the Cliff Richard film Summer Holiday, what do the main characters convert into a holiday caravan as they set out on a drive across Europe? 8. The William Shakespeare play A Midsummer Night’s Dream is set in and around which European capital city? 9. The song Summertime by George Gershwin was composed for which opera? 10. Which 1958 novella by H.E. Bates has a title that is taken from William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18 that begins “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” where it follows the phrase “Rough winds do

shake”?

8. Athens 9. Porgy And Bess 10. The Darling Buds Of May Of Buds Darling The 10. Bess And Porgy 9. Athens 8. 1. Mungo Jerry 2: Compo 3. December 4. Home And Away 5. 1972 (in Munich) 6. Aberdeen 7. A double-decker bus bus double-decker A 7. Aberdeen 6. Munich) (in 1972 5. Away And Home 4. December 3. Compo 2: Jerry Mungo 1.

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 71 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

72 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts May’s Puzzle Solutions and Winners Last Month’s Crossword Winner Mrs Joanne Wollger – Upper Caldecote

Easy

Hard

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 73 The Villager Prize Crossword Prize £25

Across 1 Well known (6) 4 Long curtains (6) 9 Grandparent (7) 10 Concur (5) 11 Flavour (5) 12 Loosening (7) 13 Marvellous (11) 18 Season’s crop (7) 20 Star sign (5) 22 Bet (5) 23 One of the three R’s (7) 24 Go back (6) 25 Alcove (6)

Down 1 Brawls (6)  2 Breakfast, dinner etc (5) 3 Remove clothes (7) 5 Respond (5) 6 Piece (7) Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, 7 Vehicle used on snow (6) 8 Make, produce (11) cut out this page and send to the address below before 14 Type of piano (7) 15 Turn aside (7) 17th June 2016 16 Light rainfall (6) 17 Tree branches (6) Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd 19 Mistake (5) 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP 21 Elevate (5)

Name:

Tel:

Address:

74 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts 

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 75 Alan George Painter & Decorator

Interior and Exterior Work Wallpapering and Coving IAN SIMPSON Reliable and Local Specialist Carpentry and Joinery

City & Guilds trained All aspects of carpentry work undertaken with 30 years experience Kitchens, Bedrooms, Doors, Windows Sole trader No VAT 25 years experience Free estimates Free estimates Call Alan on 01582 454604 Please call 01462 851695 Mob:07760198256 or 07967162448 or E-Mail: [email protected] E-mail [email protected]

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

Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of our showroom

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

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

76 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts 1st Glass Window Repairs ears eerience

FULLY INSURED! Local company who can fix all types of problems with your double glazing, call us now for a free quotation. Steamed Up Glass Faulty Windows, Door Locks or Hinges Draughty Windows or Doors Leaking Conservatory Roofs Fascias and Gutters New Conservatory Roofs We also supply and fit NEW Windows, Doors and Conservatories DISCOUNTS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE NIL DEPOSIT - BALANCE UPON YOUR SATISFACTION 07511 906161

Painting James Cullip & Decorating Painting & Decorating

• interior/exterior - all aspects Property • wallpaper hanging Maintenance • coving • general household maintenance Quality Workmanship • plastering services available Papering, Coving etc. • free estimates Interior and Exterior Work Free Quotations • fully insured Call References available W Firkins & Partners Ltd 01462 814117 or 07939 267083 t: 01462 817 122 m: 07899 888 545 Est 1981 e: [email protected] www.cullippaintinganddecorating.co.uk 20 Clifton Road, Shefford, Beds 10 Mill Lane, Campton, Shefford, Beds

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 77 Books

Accountants ByBook Willow Coby Review The Wedding Girl by Sophie Kinsella

Sophie Kinsella is best known for her Shopaholic series of books, but it is well worth reading Accountants this older novel, first published in 1999 under her real name, Madeleine Wickham. Milly is about to marry the man of her dreams. The son of a successful millionaire business man, her future seems assured. Okay, so Simon and his father don’t get on, and he insists on making Aerials and Satellites his own way in the world without any help, but he dotes on Milly and she loves him. A society AERIALS & SATELLITES T/A Broadband Communications wedding is planned complete with giant marquee, Established 1993 oysters, a cake which arrives in 10 boxes, and two Aerials & Satellites • Digital Aerials giant ice swans. Freesat & Satellite Installations But then the wedding photographer arrives to stay Commercial IRS Systems at her parents’ B&B. He and Milly recognise each All Work Guaranteed • CAI Approved C.1616 other, though at first she doesn’t know from where. Based in Stotfold When the penny drops Milly is struck with fear. A www.broadbandcommunications.co.uk chance encounter on a college lawn in Oxford ten Tel: 01462 732 628 • Mob: 07860 436 217 years ago when she was a naïve 18-year-old had led to a rash decision which now has ramifications and threatens to bring her dream wedding Carpentry and Joinery crashing down. Can she find a way to fix this, or will she have to tell Simon the truth? A slow burner that picks up pace as it progresses. Tim Jordon In Milly the author created a very different Carpentry and Joinery protagonist compared with Becky in her later Made to measure quality timber products Shopaholic books. Milly has flaws so she’s less supply and fit. immediately likeable than Becky. And the novel Doors, Windows, Stairs, Gates, lacks some of the frivolity of the classic chic-lit Kitchen Worktops, genre but this is not necessarily a bad thing, and it Wood staining, painting and varnishing is interesting to see how an author’s style develops Station Road, Lower Stondon, Beds. Tel: 01462 850363 or 07544 790071 with time. 78 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts Classifieds

Plastering Services Removals MUSCLE & MOTOR Dave Mortby Jumbo van with up to 3 men. Helpful, efficient and friendly service Plastering, Rendering and Decorating for all your moving, carrying, and Mobile: 07722128189 domestic disposal needs, including Email: [email protected] house and garage clearance. Free estimates given Call Richard on: 2 Willow Tree Way, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1GE 01767 317387 or 07968 787496 Email: [email protected] www.muscleandmotor.co.uk

Plastering Services Removals and Storage

James Geekie Plastering removals, storage, All types of plastering - big or small archive and shipping • House and office moves Interior/Exterior Work Undertaken • Large and small vehicles • Local/long distance and overseas removals Re-skim Rooms, Walls, Artex & Ceilings • Containerised storage Dry Lining and Screeding • Extremely high quality customer service Call for a no obligation quotation Tel: 07792 415356 or 01462 490598 01582 572967 Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Plumbing and Heating StephensRoofing Dinky ad_02.indd 1 3/12/12 11:44:54

Property Maintenance Van Hire R. CHAPMAN Home & Garden Services Chris’ Man & Van Œ Patio’s Œ Driveways For hire Œ Fencing Collections, Deliveries, Œ Brickwork Light Haulage...anything considered. Œ Painting & Decorating Œ Tiling Cheap rates 20 Years Experience - No Job Too Small! Please call for further details 01462 850575 or 07950 311881 07747 828259 / 01525 754218

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261122 79 Creative Kitchens & Bedroom Design Modern • Contemporary • Traditional

Bedfordshire’s Premier Kitchen & Bedroom Showroom Since 1974

The Old White Horse • 1 High Street • Biggleswade • SG18 0JE

Tel: 01767 314344 www.lolineinteriors.co.uk e: [email protected]

Loline June 16.indd 1 16/05/2016 18:33:44