Potton Villager July 12

1

VILLAGERThe

and Town Life

Issue 81 - July 2012

Bringing Local Business to local People in Biggleswade, Sandy, Potton, Gamlingay and all surrounding villages.

11,000 copies delivered to over 30 towns and villages every month Your

FREEcopy

£25Prize

CrosswordSee Inside

Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts2

HOOPERSOF LONDON LTD

17 High Street, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 0JE

01767 210 210www.hoopersoflondon.co.uk

Relax and be spoilt in our new refurbished salon

July Offers£50.00

for Half Head Hi-Lights and Cut and Finish

with selected stylists

Minx Nails from

£20.00

International Award Winners and UK Hair Colour Champions 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009

Hair and Beauty for all generations at Hoopers of London... ...quality and inspiration at an affordable cost.

@hoopersoflondon

Proud Sponsors

of Miss Eco 2012

To advertise in The Villager and Townlife please call 01767 261 122 3

EditorialMelanie Hulse, Solange Hando, Katherine Sorell, Pippa Greenwood, Geoff Wharton, James Baggott, Debbie Singh-Bhatti, Leon F. Jones, Alex Brown, Helen Taylor, Anne O’Brien aand Rita Hall-Williams

Advertising SalesNigel Frost [email protected]

PhotographyElena Elisseeva

Design and ArtworkDesign 9 Tel 07762 969460

PublishersVillager Publications Ltd24 Market Square, Potton Beds. SG19 2NPTel: 01767 [email protected]

DisclaimerAll adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, Villager Publications Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

In this Issue

4The History of the OlympicsBy Melanie Hulse

1

VILLAGERThe

and Town Life

Issue 81 - July 2012


11,000 copies delivered to over 30 towns and villages every month Your

FREEcopy

£25Prize

CrosswordSee Inside

Abbotsley Feast Week and Scarecrow Festival ........................13Barbeques ...................................................................................19On Your Bike! ............................................................................. 20Sandy Tourist Information Centre ............................................ 23What’s Your Sport? .................................................................... 26Where Am I? .............................................................................. 29Boeing B-17 Returns to North Bedfordshire ............................ 30Ladies First... At Last! ................................................................ 32Make-Up Masterclass ................................................................ 35Best Foot Forward .................................................................... 36Best Holiday Technology ........................................................... 38A Picture Paints A Thousand Words ..........................................41Fun Quiz ..................................................................................... 43Safety in the Home .................................................................... 45Dry Weather Gardening ............................................................ 50Rural Ramblings ........................................................................ 53Costa Rica .................................................................................. 56Animal Know-How..................................................................... 62Inventions - Paper ..................................................................... 65Children’s Page .......................................................................... 67Making the Most of a Staycation .............................................69Seasonal Delights .......................................................................71Peugeot 209 ...............................................................................72What’s On .................................................................................. 76Puzzle Page ...............................................................................80Lofty Ideas ................................................................................. 85Are You Secure? ......................................................................... 92

Going GreenCan Make You Money

15

VILLAGERThe

and Town Life

16Music For YouSummer Schools

You are now able to view the Villager Magazine online at

www.villagermag.com

48Alliance Foster CareA True Story

86Prize Crossword£25 could be yours!


Sometimes it feels as if this country has gone mad – if it’s not world cup fever then it’s a royal jubilee, Wimbledon or ‘the golf’ that occupy the minds, hearts and televisions of most families. However, this year is set to see something else altogether when the 2012 Olympic Games will be staged in London. But when and how did the Olympic Games being and who has taken part?The ancient Olympics were rather different to the modern games. There were far fewer events and from the fifth and forth centuries only Greek speaking men (no women) were allowed to take part. According to once source ‘The games started in Olympia, Greece, near the towns of Elis and Pisa (both in Elis on the peninsula of Peloponnesos). The first Games began as an annual foot race of young women in competition for the position of the priestess for the goddess, Hera and a second race was instituted for a consort for the priestess who would participate in the religious traditions at the temple.’The Heraea Games, the first recorded competition for women in the Olympic Stadium, were held as early as the sixth century BC. It originally consisted of foot races only, as did the competition for males. There were criteria for entering the games and before they began there were many rituals held, one of which was that each competitor had to stand before a statue of the god Zeus and swear that they had completed at least ten months of training.The earliest Olympic Games for men that we have a written record about were in the year 776 BCE. It is generally accepted that the games

THE HISTORY OF THE OLYMPICS BY MELANIE HuLSE

had been taking place for many years before this time however. At this first recorded games, the sole event was the stade, or running race where naked competitors ran for the length of the stadium which was about 192 metres. The winner in the year 776 BCE was cook named Coroebus – the first Olympic champion in history!To the Greeks it was important to root the Olympic Games in religion and mythology. During the time of the ancient Games their origins were attributed to the gods, and various legends persisted as to who actually was responsible for the Games’ beginnings. These origins of traditions have become almost impossible to untangle, but certain chronology and patterns have arisen that help people understand the story behind the Games. According to one source ‘The earliest myths regarding the origin of the Games are recounted by the Greek historian, Pausanias. According to the story, the dactyl Herakles and two of his brothers raced at Olympia. He crowned the victor with a laurel wreath, which


For all our Summer Promotions visit our websiteor call reception for full details.

www.leslyelliott.co.uk Tel: 01767 26166010 Sun Street, Potton, Beds SG19 2LR

Magic MondaysA Magic Monday

will dramatically reduce the cost of your Beauty Treatments!

Book any Beauty Treatment on ANY Monday in July and receive a

25% Discount


explains the traditional prize given to Olympic champions.The other Olympian gods (so named because they lived on Mount Olympus), would also engage in wrestling, jumping and running contests. Another, later myth, is attributed to Pindar. He claims the festival at Olympia involved Pelops, king of Olympia and eponymous hero of the Peloponnesus, and Herakles, the son of Zeus. The story goes that after completing his labors, Herakles established an athletic festival to honor his father. Pelops, using trickery, and the help of Poseidon, won a chariot race against a local king and claimed the king’s daughter, Hippodamia as his prize. A final myth, also attributed to Pausanias is dated by the historian at 776 BC. For some reason the Games of previous millennia were discontinued and then revived by Lycurgus of Sparta, Iphitos of Elis, and Cleoisthenes of Pisa at the behest of the Oracle of Delphi who claimed that the people had strayed from the gods, which had caused a plague and constant war. Restoration of the Games would end the plague, usher in a time of peace, and signal a return to a more traditional lifestyle. The patterns that emerge from these myths are that the Greeks believed the Games had their roots in religion, that athletic competition was tied to worship of the gods, and the revival of the ancient Games was intended to bring peace, harmony and a return to the origins of Greek life. Since these myths were documented by historians like

Pausanias, who lived during the reign of Marcus Aurelius in the 160s AD, it is likely that these stories are more fable than fact.’The tradition of the ancient Olympic games grew over the years and we do know that the games were played every four years for nearly 1,200 years. Only the young were allowed to take part and as time passed more and more events and competitions were added to the program. In 724 for example the diaulos or two-stade race was begun. This was race of one lap of the stadium which would have been about 400 metres in length. Later, in about 520 BCE the hoplitodromos or Hoplite Race was introduced. This race emulated the endurance, speed and stamina needed for warfare as the contestants had to run a diaulos wearing full or partial armour which weighed between 50 and 60lb, carrying a shield and wearing greaves or a helmet. More various events were added – boxing, wrestling and pankration which was a mixture of different martial arts disciplines, chariot racing, and stadion – long jump, javelin throw and discus throwing which were linked competitions and not separate events. The Olympics were as much a religious event as a games. They were held in honor and worship of the god Zeus. On the middle day of the games 100 oxen were killed in sacrifice. As years passed, the geographical site of the games, Olympia, became a centre of worship for the Greek gods


Come &

celebrate

the British

summer...

The Coach House is the perfect place to enjoy the British summer: perfectly chilled

wines, jugs of Pimms and fine real ales, gourmetbarbecues and superb seasonal dishes on our new menu.

Market Square Potton 01767 260221 www.coachhousepotton.co.uk

Summer 2012_Layout 1 18/06/2012 12:14 Page 1


or pantheon and a huge doric temple built by the Greek architect Libon was erected on the mountaintop site. A gold and ivory statue of the god Zeus was placed on a throne in the temple. This later became on of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Artistic expression was a major part of the Games. Sculptors, poets and other artisans would come to the Games to show off their works in what became a kind of artistic competition. Sculptors created works like Myron’s Diskobolos or Discus Thrower. Their aim was to highlight natural human movement and the shape of muscles and the body. Poets would be commissioned to write prose in honor of the Olympic victors. These poems, known as Epinicians, were passed on from generation to generation. On the final day of the Olympic Games there was a huge banquet. This involved the consumption of the 100 oxen which had been sacrificed to Zeus previously. The winners of the events were presented an olive branch or wreath and were received as guests with much honour throughout Greece, especially in their home towns, where they was often granted large sums of money (in Athens, 500 drachma, a small fortune at those times) and prizes including vats of olive oil.The Olympic Games reached their zenith in the 6th and 5th centuries BC, but then gradually declined in importance as the Romans gained power and influence in Greece. There is no agreed date when the Games officially ended, but the most common-held year is 393 AD, when the emperor Theodosius I declared that all pagan cults and practices be eliminated. Another possible date is 426 AD, when his successor Theodosius II ordered the destruction of all Greek temples.The games were not held again until the late 19th century when there were several attempts, by several nations, to re-start the Olympic games as a sporting event.

A young Frenchmen named Pierre de Coubertin began their revival in France and Coubertin is now known as le Rénovateur. Coubertin was a French aristocrat born on January 1, 1863. He was only seven years old when France was overrun by the Germans during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. Some believe that Coubertin attributed the defeat of France not to its military skills but rather to the French soldiers’ lack of vigor and, after examining the education of the German, British, and American children, Coubertin decided that it was exercise, more specifically sports, that made a well-rounded and vigorous person.Coubertin’s attempt to get France interested in sports was not met with enthusiasm. Still, Coubertin persisted. In 1890, he organized and founded a sports organization, union des Sociétés Francaises de Sports Athlétiques (uSFSA) and two years later, Coubertin organized a meeting with 79 delegates who represented nine countries. At this meeting, Coubertin spoke of the revival of the Olympic Games and this time, Coubertin aroused interest.The delegates at the conference voted unanimously for the revival of the Olympic Games. The delegates also decided to have Coubertin construct an international committee to organize the Games. This committee became the International Olympic Committee (IOC; Comité Internationale Olympique) and Demetrious Vikelas from Greece was selected to be its first president. Athens was chosen as the location for the revival of the Olympic Games and the planning was begun.The games have since grown from their relatively unobtrusive beginnings to an international competition involving 10,500 competitors from 204 countries around the whole world! There have been many, many winners in modern times from Great Britain as well as other countries in Europe. Familiar winning names include Mary Peters – gold medallist in the 1972 Munich Olympic games for Pentathlon; David Hemery winner of several medals most notably the gold medal for 400m Hurdles at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics; The Right Honorable Sebastian Coe KBE winner of several medals at the 1980 and 1984 Olympic Games: Sir Steve Redgrave winner of gold medals for Men’s Rowing at the 1984, 1988, 1992, 1996 and 2000 Olympic Games and Sir Christopher Hoy winner of gold medals for Track Cycling at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics.In modern times the winners of the Olympic games are awarded far more than olive leaves


Maharajah of Sandy OPEN 7 DAYS 5.30PM - 11.30PM22 Market Square, Sandy SG19 1JAwww.maharajahofsandy.co.uk01767 689743/680475

Exquisite, modern Indian cuisine Fully licensed Takeaway menu available Climate controlled

Inspiring menu, voluptuous flavours, wicked spiciness, authentic cookingDELICIOUS FOODReserve your table now!

but the last series of Olympic medals to be made of solid gold were awarded at the 1912 Olympic games in Sweden. Nowadays Olympic Gold medals are required to be made from at least 92.5% silver, and must be plated with a minimum of 6 grams of gold. All Olympic medals have to be at least 60mm in diameter and 3mm thick. Minting the medals is the responsibility of the Olympic host country. From 1928 through 1968 the design was always the same: the obverse showed a generic design by Florentine artist Giuseppe Cassioli with text naming the host city; the reverse showed another generic design of an Olympic champion. From the 1972 Summer Olympics through 2000 however, Cassioli’s design (or a slight modification) remained on the obverse with a custom design by the host city on the reverse. Noting that Cassioli’s design showed a Roman amphitheater for what originally were Greek games, a new obverse design was commissioned for the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. For the 2008 Beijing Olympics medals had a diameter of 70mm and were 6mm thick, with the front displaying a winged figure of victory and the back showed a Beijing Olympics symbol surrounded by an inset jade circle.

The winners of Olympic events do not receive any other prizes from the International Olympic Committee. The country that they come from may offer them cash prizes however, and they are usually offered sponsorship by companies who are willing to pay them a great deal of money if they win any of the events. There are many young athletes ready and eager to compete in this year’s Olympic Games. Find out who will be there by looking at www.teamgb.com


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.

Not only enter the unbelievable world of close up professional magic that is second to none, you can now see a cabaret show that will leave you gasping, your guests enthralled

and audience participation that is not only professional but will cause laughter throughout and will be something to remember for a very long time.

This is ideal for any corporate or private event.

Steve is a master of his craft and a member of the prestigious Magic Circle. He has had many letters of thanks and testimonials from people from all walks of life. 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 details07719 261147 • 01767 260671

www.stevedeanmagic.co.uk email: [email protected]

The Unforgettable Close Up and

Cabaret Magic of Steve Dean


Friday 13th July – Sunday 22nd July 2012Olympian Scarecrows will be on display in the village of Abbotsley from Friday 13th July as part of the popular annual Feast Week and Scarecrow Festival. The week-long event coincides with the celebration of the feast of St Margaret of Antioch, in whose honour the church is dedicated.The village has become well known for its scarecrows, and year on year the straw residents delight visitors from across the region. The theme for 2012 is the Olympics and the annual event commences on Friday 13th July with a Golf Day at Abbotsley Golf Club.The week’s festivities include: · A Village Fete on Saturday 14th on the playing

field from 2–5pm, with games, stalls and side shows including, Bedfordshire Beekeepers, Daisy Cakes, Jutey Calls together with a petting zoo, ferret racing, bbq, bar & Pimm’s tent and much more.

· Cream teas will be served at the Village Hall on Sunday 15th from 12 noon, a welcome refreshment after a walk around the village to see the scarecrows. A Pitch & Putt event will be be held at Abbotsley Golf Club.

· A family sports evening will be held on Monday 16th on the playing field with Hunts Sports

ABBOTSLEY FEAST WEEk AND SCARECROW FESTIVAL

leading the fun. · A quiz at The Eight Bells on Tuesday 17th.· Skittles evening at the Village Hall Wednesday

18th 7pm – all are welcome, tickets see below. · A pet show in the garden of The Eight Bells on

Thursday 19th The popular Barn Dance will take place on Saturday 21st at The Eight Bells at 8pm, with dancing to The Invisible Navvies of utopia (tickets in advance, see contact details below). The week’s festivities close on Sunday 22nd with Jazz in the Afternoon, 2pm at the Eight Bells – all are welcome, bring a picnic and enjoy the jazz. Cream teas will again be served in the Village Hall on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd July.All profits from Feast Week go to the upkeep of Abbotsley Village Hall. The Village Hall is important to the community; it is used regularly by local groups and classes and is available to hire throughout the year for parties and other events. For further information about Feast Week events and tickets please contact Ben Yallop (01767 679991) or Mike Hopwood (01767 679979), or see the village website www.abbotsley.org.ukAbbotsley Feast Week & Scarecrow Festival Raising Funds for Abbotsley Village Hall Registered Charity No.302626


Call or e-mail today

01767 313896 [email protected]

3 Victoria Place, Biggleswade, Beds. SG18 9RN www.victoriaplacedental.com

Now offering the amazing 6-Month-SmilesTM

Rapid Clear Braces system for stunning straight teeth in just months!

Present this voucher for a free* consultation with Dr Raj Ahlowalia.

*Strictly one voucher offer per person. Voucher expires Sept 1st 2012. Free consultations do not include comprehensive examinations or x-rays.

Dr Raj Ahlowalia is a recognised expert inComplex Dentistry, Jaw & Bite Disorders,Temporo - Mandibular Joint Dysfunctions & Aesthetic Implant Restorative Dentistry.

If you’re suffering from odd headaches or facial pain, you’d love for a nicer smile oran alternative to loose dentures or old &an alternative to loose dentures or old &worn out dentistry consider calling for a FREE* consultation with Dr Raj Ahlowalia.Also check our website for more informationon the impact of bite and jaw disorders.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY & FACIAL AESTHETICS- WHITENING - VENEERS - TOOTH COLOURED BRACES

RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY- SAME DAY CROWNS - DENTAL IMPLANTOLOGY

FUNCTIONAL DENTISTRY- BITE - JAW JOINT - PAIN & HEADACHE THERAPY

What about Chronic Headaches? Did you know bite disorders & jaw joint problems are a major cause!

Is your old dentistry falling apart? Do you have loose or cracking teeth? Are your gums mysteriously receeding?


but also battery storage, system monitoring, voltage optimization and energy efficient lighting solutions. As a certified company, upbeat Energy Ltd. complies with the nationally recognised industry standards (MCS, REAL, REIGA).If you are interested in solar PV, contact upbeat Energy. They will arrange for a free, no-obligation site survey to assess whether your property is suitable for PV panels. Your requirements will be discussed and an individual quotation sent to you. On acceptance, the EPC will be arranged and if all is satisfactory, the installation will go ahead. This normally takes about a day, with the scaffolding arriving beforehand. After the system is commissioned, upbeat helps you through the process of applying for the Feed-in Tariff with your chosen supplier, and sets up a free monitoring device so you can watch your panels performing. Lastly, they provide you with all the necessary documentation, guarantees and warranties, and an excellent aftercare service. If you are interested or want to know more, phone upbeat Energy on 01223 581504 or go to www.upbeat-energy.co.uk

Having solar PV panels on your roof is a great idea – it not only saves CO2 and gives you electricity you can use in the home, but it also makes perfect financial sense. The recent lowering of the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) has been matched by lower costs for PV systems, so the returns on investment in a PV system are still excellent.All solar PV systems consist of three main components: the mounting system, the panels and the inverter. The mounting system fixes the panels to the roof (or to the ground). The panels transform solar energy, even on dull days, into free electricity. The inverter converts the electricity from DC to AC current, which can be used in the home and supplied to the grid.The Feed-in-Tariff guarantees the owner of a PV system a tax free, inflation-adjusted price for every Kilowatt of electricity their system produces, whether or not it is used in the home. It is guaranteed for 25 years (is reduced to 20 years from 1 August 2012). until 1 August 2012 the tariff rate for up to 4kW PV systems is 21p – thereafter it drops to 16p. All installations now need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) showing a grade D or above to register for the Feed-in Tariff and receive the 21p rate. Estimates show that investment in a 4 kWp system can have a payback time as low as 8 years, annual income of around £800, net payout over 25 years of up to £25,000 and a rate of return of around 15.4%. upbeat Energy Ltd. is a local specialist in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems. Since November 2012, upbeat Energy has installed over 200 domestic and 10 commercial systems with more than 1,500 kWp generation power. With its in-house experts, the company not only offers solar systems

HOW GOInG GREEn CAN MAKE YOu MONEY!


Music for You Summer Schools celebrates its 15th Music Summer School here in Bedfordshire, featuring international artists from around the world. Local musicians from the local area are welcome to join us for a variety of music courses that will be both enjoyable and educational. Courses include jazz ensembles, orchestras, string groups, wind band and conducting. We are delighted to announce our new folk course for 2012 and would really encourage any folk enthusiast to get in contact and support this new venture. The fantastic music and beautiful venue of Shuttleworth College is a winning recipe that certainly offers something special for everyone who attends.“The 2012 course participants can also expect expert tuition from a host of inspirational tutors,” said Dawn Bradley-Buxton course Director. “The special ingredient about these music courses is that both adults and children can play side by side at a variety of levels. It’s very important that if you are at an advanced level you are musically challenged and have the opportunity to play with others of a similar standard. Likewise if you are a beginner or have taken up an instrument later on in life it is important that musicians are supported and guided in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Where ever you are in your musical journey, we will ensure that you have an enjoyable time’.Emma Matthews, a French horn player visited the course for the first time in 2010. “The feeling of friendly professionalism and enthusiasm was the first thing that struck me on that first Monday

MuSIC FOR YOuSuMMER SCHOOLS

morning” said Emma. “Everyone in that room, wanted to be there! Guy Woolfenden was terrific; what a musician and Laszlo Marosi – what can I say? Exceptional! Thank you all for such a wonderful week.”

If you would like to join us this summer contact:Dawn Bradley-Buxton on 07973 504855www.musicforyousummerschools.co.uk

[email protected] discounts and scholarships for local adults

and children are available.


Mus

ic Fo

r You

Sum

mer

Sch

ools

201

2

Dir

ecte

d by

som

e of

the

UK

's f

orem

ost

mus

icia

ns.

Our

cou

rses

are

a m

ust

for

any

clas

sica

l, ja

zz o

r fo

lk e

nthu

sias

t.

Ple

ase

con

tact

us

for

a br

och

ure

or v

isit

our

web

site

0797

3 50

4855

- 0

7782

352

512

adm

in@

mus

icfo

ryou

sum

mer

sch

ools

.co.

ukw

ww

.mus

icfo

ryou

sum

mer

sch

ools

.co.

ukEst

. sin

ce 1

997

New

Sum

mer

Sch

ool V

enue

S

hutt

lew

orth

Col

lege

, Bed

ford

shir

e5t

h -

18th

Aug

ust

2012

Joi

n t

he

Orc

hes

tras

, Win

d B

and

s, S

trin

g G

roup

s,J

azz

or F

olk

Cou

rses

.

Mus

ic f

or y

ou w

elco

mes

bot

h ad

ults

and

chi

ldre

n.

Enj

oy r

ehea

rsin

g an

d pe

rfor

min

g w

ith

othe

rs w

ho s

hare

sim

ilar

inte

rest

s.

Res

iden

tial

and

non

res

iden

tial

opt

ions

ava

ilabl

e.

Cou

rses

are

tai

lorm

ade

to s

uit

begi

nner

s, in

term

edia

tes

and

adva

nced

mus

icia

ns.

mus

ic to

ni h

alf_

mus

ic 1

2/06

/201

2 1

6:07

Pag

e 1


Americans – aren’t they a mad bunch, though? They come across like hysterical babies, screaming uncontrollably if they don’t get exactly what they want exactly when they want it, and threatening all kinds of horrible vengeance on anyone who might deny or even delay their instant gratification. Unfortunately, though, you can’t just ignore them as you might a real baby, because they’re big, powerful, and extremely heavily armed.Of course, they can’t really be the way they’re portrayed in our media, because if they were they’d all have killed each other by now. And anyway, I’ve met quite a few Americans and some of them are almost civilised. But that would be far too boring to show on TV or in newspapers. So, hysterical babies it is, then.One thing babies can do is eat. And like babies, Americans are world-class eaters. They eat 28% of the food the world produces even though they only make up 5% of the world’s population. So let’s help them celebrate Independence Day on 4th July by eating American.July is pretty hot in the uSA so Independence

BARBEQuESJuLY

Day tends to be an outdoor event. The uSA is challenged for the title of World’s Top Barbecue Nation only by South Africa and Australia, with which it shares reliable summer weather, high per capita income, and a gargantuan appetite for protein.So, this 4th July take the wire brush to the barbecue, fire up the charcoal (or gas), and throw on a steak. Or sausages. Or ribs. Or burgers. Or a piece of chicken which you can microwave first if you’re nervous. But before you cook it, make it truly American by slathering it with the following simple barbecue sauce.Fry finely chopped onions on a medium heat until golden brown. Add minced garlic and chopped and seeded chillis (optional) and fry for another minute. Add tomato puree, Worcester sauce, vinegar, salt and pepper, and either some jam or jelly (redcurrant or apricot) or, if you’re not using chillis, some sweet chilli sauce. Fry on a medium heat for another 10 minutes and you’ll end up with a sauce that’s full of complex flavours – sweet, sour, hot and deep. use some of the sauce as a marinade and some for pouring over, but keep them separate to avoid cross-contamination.The crowning glory of your American barbecue is gumbo. The heart of gumbo is a roux made deep and dark by long cooking, so in a heavy-bottomed saucepan heat some oil, then add an equal quantity of sifted flour (you don’t want lumps) and stir for 10-15 minutes or until it darkens. Add chopped onion, green pepper, celery, minced garlic and thick slices of smoked sausage. Cook for 5 minutes, season, and add file powder (dried sassafras leaves) if you can find it, dried sage if you can’t. Add bay leaves and a litre of chicken stock, bring to the boil, then turn it down and simmer for approximately 30 minutes. Add a skinned, boned, and shredded roast chicken (cooked the day before) and king prawns (optional) and simmer slowly for another hour, topping up with stock if necessary (a gumbo is a soup, not a stew, so it needs to be liquid). Serve with brown rice.And to drink? Californian wine, of course, but also a genuine imported American beer. Not Budweiser or Coors because they are now brewed in Britain: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is, I think, the most widely available import – and it’s delicious!


I don’t know about you, but I dread each visit to the fuel station at the moment because I never have a clue how much a litre of diesel is going to cost. I do wonder if running a vehicle will be an unaffordable luxury in a year or two’s time. But maybe I shouldn’t despair, perhaps there is a solution to at least some of our transport problems which, in addition to being fast, cheap and reliable, is also good for you and the environment! “On your bike,” I hear your sceptical retort - and you couldn’t be nearer the truth! Travel by bike does not require vehicle tax, an MOT, breakdown cover, or a visit to the fuel station. It is convenient and efficient, and usually avoids road works, traffic jams, vying for parking spaces and other road hazards that raise the blood pressure. It firms the thighs and buttocks, tones tummy muscles and increases the metabolic rate. Now if all that isn’t enough to make you jump up and don helmet and reflective armbands, I don’t know what will!So you’ve decided to join the biking brigade, but how do you go about choosing the right bike for you? First, decide on the type of cycling you intend doing. Will you be cycling as a means of

On YOuR BIkE!IS THE FuTuRE TWO-WHEELED?

transport, or purely for recreation? Then choose your bike accordingly.Traditional bikes are a great low maintenance option for everyday use but tend to be a bit heavy. If you are willing to sacrifice comfort in favour of speed, then a racing bike may be the one for you, but perhaps the most popular and practical choice is a mountain or hybrid bike, with their strong frame, knobbly tyres and wide range of gears that cope well both off and on road.Before venturing out, make sure that both brakes work well, both tyres are pumped up and that the saddle is the correct height. Check that the handle bars are tightened, and be sure to wear light coloured or fluorescent clothing that won’t get tangled in the chain or wheels. Wearing a helmet, though advisable, is not required by law. Don’t cycle in too high a gear as this will tire you and keep at least a metre between you and the kerb. You aren’t allowed to cycle on the pavement, but you can use the bus lane if you need to. So, armed with all these hints, tips and facts, there’s nothing left for you to do now but get on your bike and save yourself a small fortune at the fuel station!


Telephone: 01767 262777Email: [email protected]

www.thepottonflooringco.co.uk

7 Market Square, Potton, Beds. SG19 2NPOpening Times Mon-Fri - 9.00am to 5.00pm Sat - 9.00am to 1.00pm

Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays

Dupont Smart Strand By Abingdon FlooringBrand new range of luxury carpet to Potton Flooring

which is Eco Friendly and guaranteed not to stain for 20 years...Come and see our in store video...

On YOuR BIkE!IS THE FuTuRE TWO-WHEELED?


The first of this year’s Sandy Tourist Information Centre’s Summer Walks took place on Tuesday, 12th June when over 40 people enjoyed a guided tour of the Georgian mansion of Sandye Place, the former manor house of Sandy Manor and now an academy. Numbers were limited for this walk and a number of people were unfortunate in being too late to book and it is therefore hoped that the walk will be repeated next year.The second of this year’s Summer Walks takes place on Saturday 7th July and is called The Squires Walk and this forms part of the day to celebrate the launch of the Sandy Jubilee Walks leaflet and the 25th Anniversary of the Greensand Ridge Walk. Sandy Town Council and Central Bedfordshire Council invite you to join them on this day The Squires Walk features some stunning views and is one of the six walks featured in the new Sandy Jubilee Walks leaflet which has been produced to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II. A section of the Squires Walk is also part of the Greensand Ridge Walk, a long distance walk which passes through Bedfordshire. The Greensand Ridge Walk is Bedfordshire’s premier long distance walk and provides excellent views across many valleys scattered with woodlands and historic features. The Squire’s Walk is a guided circular walk and starts at 9.30am from the Sandy Town Centre Park. The walk is over hills, woodlands, heath and along country lanes and as most of the area we walk over is part of the Pym families Sandy estate we have decided to call it ‘The Squires Walk’, as the Pyms have been ‘Squires’ of Sandy since the mid-18th century. We will climb to the summit of the Sandhills to see the wonderful view over the town and the Bedfordshire countryside. The walk will then follow the wooded lane through the hills, passing the Iron Age Hill fort of Caesar’s Camp, cross Sandy Heath before entering The Lodge RSPB reserve. We will walk along the main drive of this beautiful heath and woodland landscape and thence along the wooded bridleway before returning to the town via the hamlet of Stratford, with its fanciful former Lodge estate

SAnDY TOuRIST InFORMATIOn CEnTREJuLY 2012

cottages and farms.There will be short talks on Sandy and the RSPB along the route. Walkers can decide on the day whether to complete the full walk (approximately 2 hours duration) or a shorter walk (approximately 1 hour duration). Dogs will be permitted on leads. Refreshments will be available to purchase and there will be several interesting information stallsIf you would like to attend, please contact Sandy Tourist Information Centre to book a place, or simply turn up on the day. The Guided Walk is free.The third Summer TIC Walk is a brand new one and we will visit and hear about the historic village of Cardington. This Walk will take place on Sunday, 19th August.Cardington is an estate village belonging to the Whitbread family of Southill Park. We will see the delightful houses, cottages and other historic buildings erected by the estate from the 18th century. We will also see the cottages erected by the Whitbread’s kinsman, the famous prison reformer, John Howard, whose delightful house can be found close to the parish church.We will have a guided tour of the interior of this beautiful church much of which was rebuilt in in 1901 through the generosity of the Whitbread family. Some of the earliest monuments in the

R101 Memorial, Cardington


3 festivals offering 3 days of great entertainment on 6 stages plus “fringe” events. Comedy. Theatre. Madam Miaow’s Culture Lounge. Children’s Entertainment,

including Panic Circus, Organised Football & Junior Olympics. Hemlock Morris. Groovy Movie Picture House. DJ Wheelie-Bag. Real Ales & Ciders. A Wide Choice of Superior Food plus Farmhouse Ice Cream. General Store. Markets. Supervised

Campsites. Luxury Loos. Hot Showers. Free Car Parking.Further details and tickets from:

www.rhythmfestival.com

RH

YT

HM

FO

LKR

HY

TH

M &

BLU

ES

FRIDAY

ACOUSTIC STRAWBS JIM MORAY & BAND

JAMIE SMITH’S MABON • LUCY WARDSATURDAY

PEATBOG FAERIES DAVID KNOPFLER

THE TRAVELLING BANDIAN MCMILLAN ORCHESTRA RICHARD DIGANCE • WISHING WELL

SUNDAY

SHOW OF HANDSfeaturing MIRANDA SYKES

LAU• SCOTT MATTHEWSMOULETTES • KATRIONA GILMORE &JAMIE ROBERTS + more every day!

FRIDAY

WILKO JOHNSONGENO WASHINGTON

BUICK 6 • MITCH LADDIE BAND JERRY TREMAINE & THE RISING SONS

SATURDAY

THE BLUES BANDBIG BOY BLOATER

DAVE KELLY • CHANTEL McGREGOR ROADHOUSE • LUCY ZIRINS

SUNDAY

OLI BROWN BANDHAT FITZ & CARA

MICHAEL MESSER 2nd MIND BAND CROSSTOWN LIGHTNIN • CHERRY LEE

MEWIS • more every day!

RHYTHM FESTIVALS 2012RHYTHM FESTIVAL • RHYTHM FOLK • RHYTHM & BLUESAUGUST BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND – FRIDAY 24 to SUNDAY 26Mansion House @ Old Warden Park, Bedfordshire, SG18 9DX

3 Great Music Festivals for the Price of OneFRIDAY

HAWKWIND | THE SLACKERS | THE BEATEDDIE & THE HOT RODS • 3 BONZOS & A PIANO • MEN THEY COULDN’T HANG + more

SATURDAY

BOOKER T | THE DAMNED | ARDAL O’HANLON DENNIS ALCAPONE | KING MOB

HANK WANGFORD & THE LOST COWBOYS • CAPTAIN SENSIBLE BAND • THE GROUNDHOGS • HERE & NOW • THE MAGIC TOMBOLINOS • LEATHERAT + more

SUNDAY

KEN BOOTHE | JOHN COOPER CLARKE | CRAZY WORLD OF ARTHUR BROWN | DAVID RODIGAN

BOOMTOWN RATS • JOHN OTWAY BIG BAND • DELROY WILLIAMS & THE JUNCTION BAND • ATILLA THE STOCKBROKER • KING HAMMOND + more

villager_2012_110512.indd 1 11/05/2012 08:12


church are two 16th century brasses set into tomb chests. The most magnificent monuments in the church are those to the Whitbread family and these can be found in the north chapel together with a very rare Wedgwood black basalt font. The tattered ensign of the R101can be found displayed on the nave walls.Construction of the R101 commenced at the airship sheds at Cardington in 1926. These sheds were known as the Royal Airship Works and we will see these massive buildings from a good vantage point in the village. The R101 left Cardington in October 1930 for India carrying, among her 54 passengers and crew, a number of dignitaries, including Lord Thomson, Secretary of State for Air. Over France, strong winds were encountered and after losing height the R101 crashed into a hillside at Beauvais. The resulting crash led to the ignition of gas bags and the R101 was engulfed in flames. Of the 54 on board, 46 died at the scene while a further two succumbed to their injuries in hospital. This disaster effectively brought to an end any further British involvement in Airship development in the 1930’s.

We will visit the cemetery at Cardington and see the impressive grave and memorial to the 48 people killed when the airship crashed on that fateful flight. There will be other interesting things to see and hear about in this delightful village.Meet at 2.30pm at Cardington Village Hall, Southill Road, Cardington (opposite Kings Arms PH). The cost will be £5 per person.To book your place please call into the TIC or contact us by telephone or email.

SANDY TOURIST INFORMATION CENTREis at the rear of the offices of Sandy Town

Council at 10 Cambridge Road. Access to the Centre is either (a) via the Town Car Park in the High Street – we are in the far left hand corner or (b) from Cambridge Road – via the path at

the side of the Town Council Offices.

Sandy Tourist Information Centre,Rear of 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy

Telephone 01767 682728email [email protected]

The Royal Oak PottonJoin Colin, Jo and the team for a warm welcome at Potton’s oldest pub

4 Biggleswade Road, Potton, BedfordshireTel: 01767 261888 www.royaloakpotton.co.uk

Freshly prepared foodLunch served Tuesday to Saturday between 12noon - 2:30pmDinner served Tuesday to Saturday between 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Traditional Sunday Lunch served 12noon - 3pmSenior Citizen’s Menu Available Tuesday to Friday


Follow the lead of the Olympic athletes and make 2012 the year you get into sport.The world will be watching this summer as the Olympic Games comes to London. It’s the biggest sporting event on the planet, involving 10,500 athletes from 205 countries.These elite sportsmen and women will have trained for years to reach the peak of their physical fitness. You might not want to reach that level, but we all know the benefits of being active – getting fit, losing weight, achieving goals and meeting people. Why not use the Olympics as inspiration to try something new?Before you begin, it’s worth asking yourself a few questions:• What is your existing fitness level and what do

you hope to achieve?• Do you like to exercise alone, in a group or with

your family?• How much time and money do you want to

commit?• Would you prefer a creative activity, such as

dance or gymnastics, a fitness regime or a competitive sport?

Your local council is a good place to start your search. Leisure centres provide reasonably priced options for a wide variety of sports across all age ranges. Many offer subsidised and even free activities for people on benefits, older people, people with disabilities and students. They may run taster sessions so that you can try a new sport before you commit.Athletics is always one of the most watched Olympic events and tickets are highly prized. Running is a great way to get fit – it’s free, doesn’t take much time and is suitable for all fitness levels. The Run England website (www.runengland.org) has pointers on how to begin. You can find details of your nearest athletics club via uK Athletics (www.uka.org.uk).Another Olympic sport that gets you out and about is cycling. You can either use it simply as a practical way to travel, or head for an off-road route. The Sustrans website (www.sustrans.org.uk) has a regional guide to beautiful places to ride.If you never learned to swim or want to improve your technique, or if you want to support your child to learn, www.swimming.org is full of tips,

WHAT’S YOuR SPORT?BY ALEx BROWN

inspirational stories and guidance, such as what to do if you’re nervous in water.For animal lovers, horse-riding might be perfect choice. Whether you fancy a relaxing ride in the countryside or the challenge of show-jumping or polo, there are lots of opportunities. For details, contact the British Horse Society (www.bhs.org.uk) or the Association of British Riding Schools (www.abrs-info.org). Here are links to some more Olympic sports you could try:• www.archerygb.org.uk• www.britishfencing.com• www.britishtaekwondo.org.uk• www.canoe-england.org.uk• www.britishweightlifting.orgWhatever you choose, make sure you prepare carefully and stay safe. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun!


Could there be more in your life?

Tel: 0808 1680 180 www.alliancefostercare.co.uk

We have a shortageof foster carers.

There are over

1,200 looked

after children

in Northampton,

Bedfordshire

and Cambridgeshire

Become a foster carer

and make a realdifference to

a child’s life

78160 93x131 The Villager_Layout 1 08/06/2012 15:49 Page 1

Potton CIU Club, Charities Hall, Station Road, PottonTel: 01767 261465 (Evenings) Website: www.pottonclub.co.uk

Potton & District Club

Check out www.lemonrock.com/pottondistrictclub for more detailsBar open Mon-Tues 7.30pm to 11.00pm Weds-Thur 6.00pm to 11.00pm

Fri 5.00pm to 12.00am, Sat 12.00pm to 12.00am Sun 12.00pm to 10.30pm

Sat 30th June - DISCO INFERNO LATE BAR! PRE- UEFA FINAL NIGHT(Who will be in the final?) PLAYING TOP MUSIC, YOUR REQUESTS ARE A MUST!

Sun 1st July - UEFA 2012 FINAL ON OUR BIG SCREEN from 8.00PM All Football Fans Welcome, BBQ Weather permitting

Fri 6th July - JELLY’S QUIZ AND CURRY NIGHT...BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND, TEAMS OF 5... A CHANCE TO WIN £250!

Sat 7th July - MACHINE SHED, are back, BLUES, SOUL, BOOGIE & ROCK N ROLLSat 14th July - 7TWENTY7 Live Band Classic/Modern-day 60s-70s-80s

Covers, all occasion Female Fronted Band. (New to the club)Sat 21st July - HURRICANE FLY (LIVE BAND) EXPERIENCED MUSCIANS, LOVING BOB DYLAN & more...

Sat 28th July - PAVLOVS: Live Band: a high energy 4piece professional rock/pop, playing classic & current covers

Live on our multi-room tvs & Big screen 2012 London OLYMPICS 27TH JULY-12TH Important Diary Dates Sat 3rd Aug Jam/Open mic Night, all welcome. August Bank-Holiday

Weekend: Massive Charity Event, Tickets now available from the club, all Welcome, all profits will go to the British Heart Foundation.

WHAT’S YOuR SPORT?BY ALEx BROWN


The Villager and Town Life magazine is delivered door to door throughout:

WHERE ARE WE?

Abbotsley BeestonBroomCaxton

Cockayne HatleyCople

CroydonDuntonEltisleyEverton

Everton HeathEyeworthGamlingay

Haynes Henlow

Ickwell GreenIreland

LangfordLower CaldecoteMoggerhanger

northillOld Warden

PottonShuttleworth

SouthillStanford

SuttonThe Gransden’s

Thorncote Greenupper Caldecote

WaresleyWrestlingworth

Booking your advertising space is easy just call Nigel on 01767 261122

or e-mail [email protected]

and can be found in most shops, pubs, garages in all of the above and more

including Biggleswade and Sandy.

1

VILLAGERThe

and Town Life

Issue 78 - April 2012


11,000 copies delivered to over 30 towns and villages every month

Your

FREEcopy

These pictures are all taken in our distribution area. Do you know where they are?

WHERE AM I? DO YOu KNOW?

1

VILLAGERThe

and Town Life

Issue 77 - March 2012



Your

FREEcopy

1

1

VILLAGERThe

and Town Life

Issue 79 - May 2012



Your

FREEcopy

£25Prize Crossword

See Inside

Last month’s pictures were taken in Eyeworth

2

3


Bedford’s Mainline Big Band, period singer Luna Nightingale, the Patchwork Bombardiers, Icicyle Tricycle, trade stands and licenced bar. A Supermarine Spitfire will also perform a ‘flypast’, and it is hoped that Anglia Two - East Anglian Air Ambulance’s designated aircraft for Bedfordshire - will be able to make an appearance, subject to emergency missions.East Anglian Air Ambulance’s Area Fundraising Manager, Paul Airton, said “Originally it was intended to have military vehicles gathering at the 306th Bombardment Group Museum, celebrating 10 years of the museum, and 5 years of EAAA providing the air ambulance in Bedfordshire. The opportunity to relocate the memorial stone and subsequent flypast by the iconic B-17 could not be missed. I am sure this will be a very special day for all.” Over 40 Military & classic vehicles, including a recently restored American Halftrack, are already booked in to attend. Spaces are still available for more period vehicles, which obtain free admission with one passenger if registered before June 15th. Visitors are encouraged to wear period dress if possible, and will be pleased to learn that a large marquee complete with dance floor has been arranged by the organisers in case of inclement weather!‘Commemorating the 306th’ takes place on Sunday 8 July from 10am to 4pm, with aircraft flypasts subject to weather and serviceability. Timings to be confirmed on the day. Bedford Autodrome is just off the A6 north of Bedford. Admission is £5 in advance £8 on the day (includes admission to the museum). Telephone EAAA Bedfordshire 01525 718517 for further details.

Europe’s last remaining airworthy Boeing B-17 ‘Flying Fortress’, makes an emotional return to North Bedfordshire almost 70 years after the USAAF deployed the 306th Bombardment Group (Heavy) from Wendover Air Force base in Utah to Thurleigh Airfield.The World War II American bomber Sally B (many readers may be familiar with the film in which it appeared as the ‘Memphis Belle’) is the star attraction at ‘Commemorating the 306th’ - a spectacular event arranged by supporters of the 306th Bombardment Group museum and East Anglian Air Ambulance. The appearance of Sally B has been made possible through the generous support of Palmersport and St ModwenThe historic heavy bomber makes a flypast over the museum - one of the counties little treasures - as crowds gather to rededicate the recently re-sited memorial stone to all the crews who operated from the airfield during the Second World War. A base from which 171 10-man crew bombers failed to return from their designated missions throughout Europe between 1942 and 1945.Welfare of the memorial stone, which until recently was located at the edge of a remote layby adjacent to Thurleigh village, had been the subject of concern for some time by museum owners Ralph & Daphne Franklin - concerns allayed by descendants and veterans of the 306th who raised funds to relocate it to the secure grounds of the museum on what is now Bedford Autodrome. The memorial stone is being rededicated by a chaplain, with colour parties from the Royal British Legion in support.“Commemorating the 306th” also includes appearances by military and classic vehicles,

Boeing B-17 ‘Flying Fortress’MAKES RETuRN TO NORTH BEDFORDSHIRE


Boeing B-17 ‘Flying Fortress’MAKES RETuRN TO NORTH BEDFORDSHIRE


Velma Butcher is to be the first Lady President of the Rotary Club of Biggleswade, taking up her appointment shortly. Velma, originally from Biggleswade but now living in Potton, will lead the original Biggleswade Rotary Club, its membership including two other ladies.Velma is the widow of the late Gordon Butcher, a well-known farmer and horticulturalist and a prominent Rotarian also within the Biggleswade Club until his death some 4 years ago. Velma also has her own business interests that in the past have included running the farm shop attached to the family horticultural business when based at Hitchmead Road, Biggleswade and more recently had her own rare pig breeding unit at Potton.The Biggleswade Rotary Club, formed in 1966, is one of two based in the Town with its “daughter” club, Biggleswade Ivel, being chartered in 2000. While separate Clubs, each works with the other when occasion suggests with Biggleswade meeting at The Stratton House Hotel on Tuesday lunchtimes and Biggleswade Ivel, including some five lady Rotarians, meeting on Wednesday evenings.Incoming President Velma said “To be asked to be President of ones Rotary Club is a great honour and I am delighted to be the first lady President of Biggleswade Rotary Club in the 46 years of its life. My husband was President in 1991/2 and to follow in his footsteps adds a special meaning for me.”Asked how her plans for her year of office were developing, Velma stated “Our Club has two main objectives – one is for Members to have fun and the other is to help the community where we can. If members don’t have fun, they won’t join. If we have no members, we can’t help the community! So my objectives for the Club continue to be to attract members, have fun and be useful to the community near

LADIES FIRST… …AT LAST!

and far.” She added “We are always mindful that most of the funding that we raise comes from the folk within our area who support our Swimathon and our Charity Golf Day and other events. To pass a substantial share of the proceeds to local organisations – and indeed sometimes to an individual with a particular problem – is fair and appropriate.”Velma concluded “What we need are some more like-minded people to join us, to have some fun and, at the same time, to support others. We are Rotarians because we enjoy it – so come along and enjoy it too! Anyone interested should contact my colleague Wayne Kingston on Biggleswade 221000”

For further information please contact: Alan B Porter (Press and Publicity Officer – Rotary

Club of Biggleswade). Tel: 01767 627319. Emails: [email protected]


Bedfordshire Foot Clinic

Podiatry/ChiropodyYvonne Siudak

BSc (Hons.) MChS, HPC Registered

Podiatrist / ChiropodistPrivate Podiatry / Chiropody Care in Sandy, Bedfordshire, UK

A comprehensive service for all your foot care needs

Hard Skin • Corns • Nail Cutting

Ingrown Toe Nails • Fungal Nail Infections

General Foot Care • Verrucae Treatment

• Diabetic Assessments

• Biomechanical Assessments

Full details of our specialist treatments are available, call Yvonne for an appointment:

Bedfordshire Foot Clinic17 Georgetown Cottages, Tempsford Road, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2AE

T: 01767 681704 M: 07562 748352 E: [email protected]

www.yourfootclinic.co.uk

Also Cambridge Foot Clinic Tel: 01223 358431


Advertising in The Villager is easy. to find out more call nigel

on 01767 261122 or email

[email protected]

Business gone slow? Let us help!


If you love fashion then you’ll constantly update your wardrobe to keep ahead in the style stakes and on track with the latest trends, but when did you last update your make-up look?If you step outside of your cosmetic comfort zone, you might just be thrilled with the results.Finding The Perfect BaseTo find the perfect foundation, consider your skin type. Whether you have oily, dry, combination or ageing skin, there’s a product available that’s been specially formulated for you. If you’re lucky enough to have a clear complexion, don’t hide it under layers of heavy make-up. Choose a tinted moisturiser that will give a touch of colour and simply enhance your natural skin tone. However if you do have imperfections to hide, a full coverage foundation will do the job. Don’t be tempted to apply too much product because it can result in an unnatural finish, so simply cover the areas that need it most with a lighter covering for the rest of the face.Wearing too much foundation not only looks dated, but can be very ageing, so keep things light and fresh.Lighten Upusing a highlighter is a great way to fake a fresh-faced look. The luminous, light reflecting liquid immediately lifts a dull complexion when applied carefully to the brow bones, cheekbones and bridge of your nose - areas where light naturally hits your skin. use a small amount and blend thoroughly.A Touch Of BlushWarm up your face with a touch of colour. Whether you choose powder, cream or gel blusher, make sure the colour is right for you. Stick to neutral shades that add warmth and define the cheekbones and stay away from any shades that are unnatural. Shocking pink is dated and unflattering. Apply the product to the apples of your cheeks working gently upwards and outwards. The Eyes Have ItFor a modern eye make-up look, sweep a natural coloured shadow across the entire eye. use a lighter shade on the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes and apply a darker shade to the sockets to add definition. Blend thoroughly to avoid harsh lines.using an eyeliner, draw a line just above the lashes to add definition to the eye. Pencil liners provide a soft result whereas liquid liners are more intense.

Make-up Masterclass BY HELEN TAYLOR

Try flicking the liner up and out a little at the outer corners to create subtle, small flicks - it’s a great way to ‘lift’ the eye area. Swap black liner (and mascara) for brown - it’s much more flattering on older women.Try using a white eyeliner on the inner rim of your lower lashes. It enhances the eyes and creates a fresh, wide-eyed look.Eyelash curlers might look scary, but they are a must have beauty tool - always use before you apply a few coats of mascara.Don’t forget your eyebrows - keep them neatly groomed and set the shape by using a brow gel.Get LippyChoose soft shades of glossy red and pink for a hint of colour on the lips. use a primer before application to ensure longevity - if you don’t have one, foundation works well. A lip liner in a similar shade to your lipstick will help with definition, but use it very lightly and blend well to avoid any harsh lines - it shouldn’t be visible once your lipstick is on.Make your pout appear fuller by applying a dab of gloss to the centre of the lips for the ideal finish.


Many of us neglect our feet and dread the prospect of exposing them because of common problems like sweatiness, smelliness, corns, calluses or bunions. With over 125,000 sweat glands on each foot, it’s no surprise that feet produce an eggcup’s worth of sweat each day! Bacteria on the skin break down sweat as it comes from the pores and this releases a cheesy odour as the sweat decomposes. Smelly feet occur when sweat soaks into shoes which don’t dry properly before being worn again.To help keep feet dry and odour free, wash at least daily in warm, soapy water, dry thoroughly, wipe with cotton wool dipped in surgical spirit and then dust with talc. In addition, change socks daily (choose cotton ones if possible) and alternate your choice of shoes. using spray anti-perspirant/deodorant, medicated insoles, and feet-fresh or antibacterial socks will also help, as will wearing leather, canvas or open toe shoes. Not only are corns and calluses unsightly, they are also very painful. They occur when skin thickens after being exposed to excessive pressure or friction – like ill-fitting shoes. Whilst corns are most often found on the tops and sides of toes, calluses are usually found on the heel or ball of the foot. Before attempting to treat either condition, first consult with a chiropodist/podiatrist who will help identify the

BEST FOOT FORWARDBY DEBBIE SINGH-BHATTI

cause and advise you on the best treatment. A professional is likely to use a sharp blade to remove corns or badly callused areas, but it’s safer for an amateur to use a pumice stone or foot file to rub down thick or hard skin, followed by a rich moisturiser such as E45 to soften the skin. Other treatments like corn plasters, rehydration creams, insoles or wedges are also available over the counter, but not all are recommended for all people (e.g. those with diabetes or circulatory problems) so seek advice before using them. No one knows why bunions occur, though they seem to run in families, are more likely to occur if you have flexible joints, and are more common in women. Wearing ill fitting shoes can make them worse, so treatment includes modifying footwear, taking painkillers, and using orthotics such as bunion pads, insoles and toe spacers. Prevention is always better than cure, and basic hygiene and nail cutting should be all you need to keep your feet healthy, but if you do have serious or ongoing problems, seek professional help. Podiatry is available on the NHS but may be limited. If you choose a private practitioner, make sure they are registered with the Health Professionals Council (HPC) and are a member of an official chiropody or podiatry body.


Technology and holidays go together like sun, sea and sangria, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to benefit. For example, noise-cancelling headphones can remove unwanted noise such as the hum of aircraft engines or the drone of bus wheels, and you can pick up a decent pair for as little as £20.If you’d like to listen to the radio on your travels the Roberts Sports 925 (£16) has FM, MW and LW reception in a handy travel-sized case. If you want uK digital radio too, Roberts also makes the Sports DAB/FM radio, which receives both analogue and digital broadcasts for around £65.Many of us have MP3 players or phones with built-in music players, and there’s a dizzying range of travel speakers to choose from. At £14.99 the x-Mi x Mini II offers a surprising amount of volume for very little money, while Gear4’s StreetParty Compact iPod and iPhone dock is a battery-powered speaker set that can also charge your iPhone or iPod when it’s plugged into the mains. Some of the most useful travel gadgets are among the least high-tech: the Bite Relief Click (£5.99) promises to reduce the discomfort of insect bites by using a piezo-electric pulse to reduce itching, delivering instant relief in 5-10 ten clicks. In tests, Which? magazine found that such devices really do “provide a significant degree of relief”.Another low-tech gadget is the Quik Pod (£23.99), a telescopic arm for your camera that enables you to take self-portraits in front of landmarks without having to find somebody to take the picture for you. There’s even a little mirror so you can make sure you’re not going to end up with a photo of your torso.

THE BEST HOLIDAY TECH FROM......BOOKS ON THE BEACH TO BATTLING BITES

Don’t forget a toolkit, either: Victorinox’s Swisscard Lite mini tool kit is effectively a Swiss Army knife flattened to the size of a credit card, and it includes a knife, scissors, an LED light, a screwdriver, magnifying lens, tweezers, pen and ruler. Just don’t take it in your hand luggage if you’re travelling by plane.2012’s most popular travel gadget is the ebook reader, which is freeing up space in thousands of people’s suitcases. While devices such as Apple’s new iPad (£399) make great ebook readers for planes and trains, they’re useless in direct sunlight: if you want to read on the beach, an ebook reader with an e-ink screen is a much better option. Amazon’s Kindle is the market leader at £89 for the basic Kindle and £109 for the Kindle Touch, but the Kobo eReader Touch Edition (£79.99) and Sony Reader Wi-Fi (£129) are very good alternatives. The one thing most travel gadgets have in common is that they need some sort of power, but you don’t need to carry a charger for every single bit of kit: you can buy uSB chargers for around £1.99 that plug into your hire car’s cigarette lighter and that can charge gadgets such as ebook readers, sat-navs and mobile phones, while multi-device chargers such as the Skross World Travel Adapter 2 (£17.99) offer uSB device charging via a standard wall socket. If you think you’ll be spending most of your time away from home comforts, you can even charge your devices with solar power: the PowerTraveller Explorer Solar Power Charger (around £47) is compatible with most mobile phones, MP3 players, Bluetooth headsets and many other digital devices.

Amazon Kindle Touch e-readerSkross World Travel Adapter


Friendly, family run guest house in the heart of Biggleswade.

Ideal for the business or leisure traveller. All rooms ensuite and free wifi.

Stratton Guest House4a London Road, Biggleswade

Beds SG18 8EBTel: 01767 600920

www.strattonguesthouse.com


In our early days of married life each family photograph was lovingly taken with camera and film, delivered to the chemist for development and the finished prints picked up a week later. Sometimes, I’d use a special envelope for sending films off for processing to some far flung film developers before, hopefully, having them delivered back through the door. I can still remember the excitement of collecting developed pictures from the chemist; hoping the assistants hadn’t had a sneak peak at them, then hiding round the corner to scan the latest pictorial record of our life. There were always some photographs that hadn’t quite turned out as expected; blurrily out of focus, too bright or too dark, with maybe a fat thumb or skinny finger covering the lens and captured for all to see. I treasured these photographs. I used to spread them out on the living room floor and gaze at them for hours. Then once I’d had my fill of imprinting them on my memory and showing them off I’d proudly stick them into albums. As the years passed the collection of photographs and albums grew. As further years passed I became lax about sticking the photos in albums; instead tossing the packets of prints into an old apple box kept for that purpose.With the arrival of digital cameras we didn’t have to be so careful in our photo taking. Snap, snap, snap at each and every opportunity with no fears about the costs of film or processing. Transfer to the computer, delete those you don’t like, crop, adjust and save those you do. In the early days proudly printing them out on the home printer, then later, just burn them to disc and forget about the printing.

A PICTuRE PAInTS A THOuSAnD WORDSBY ANNE O’BRIEN

Stacks and stacks of discs recording our life, sanitised, edited and suitable for viewing by all. Emailed to friends and family, posted on Facebook and shared with the world, backed up then slipped into little plastic wallets... and largely forgotten. Far too many to commit to memory – far too many marking insignificant and truly mundane moments. Recently, while sorting through some papers I came across a photograph. It showed three small boys in swimming trunks and a middle aged man also in trunks. They were all standing in a river, knee deep in water and holding hands. It’s a glorious summer day and while you can’t fully see their faces it’s clear they’re laughing. If you look closely you can see fishing rods, towels, a picnic and two cans of beer on the riverbank. You can also see my toes captured while sitting on the grass and taking the photograph. I’d nearly forgotten that day 25 years ago; not quite but nearly. Three young boys and their granddad fishing and swimming, the family holiday, the nettles, the trek to the swimming spot and the digging for worms. I remember a lot more but it’s not for sharing. It’s for savouring in quiet, private moments when I need to count my blessings – something I do frequently. Apart from the wonderful memories the photograph invoked it also prompted another feeling. I’m now increasingly convinced of the need to revert to actually printing my digital photographs, or of having them printed for me. I don’t want them to be forgotten or consigned to shiny metal discs and stuffed into brittle plastic envelopes. I’d quite like my children to come across them and think, ‘I remember that.’


Ash Tree Financial Services

Independent Financial Advisers

ContactChristopher Goodwin

Ash Tree House, 48 Sutton Mill Road,Potton, SG19 2QB Tel: 01767 262760

[email protected]

For friendly and expert advice in your financial planning

including: Mortgages and Home Insurance

Life assuranceCritical Illness Cover

Income ProtectionPensions and Annuities

Investments and Savings

Anstee Gorst Chartered Certified Accountants

- Accounts preparation for Sole traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies

- Self assessment tax returns - Cash Flow Forecasting - Vat, Payroll & Bookkeeping - Business Start Up

Free Initial Consultation Phone:Sally Anstee FCCA

01767 650700

Ground Floor Offices, Unit 30, Green End, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds, SG19 3LF

Email: [email protected]: www.anstee-accountants.com


Before After

1. First published in 1953 and still running today, which magazine was originally intended to be called Stag Party?

2. Appearing regularly in The Sun, by what name is Margaret Anne Lake better known?

3. What is the main subject of the monthly magazine Empire?4. Which fictional newspaper employed Spiderman’s alter-ego Peter

Parker as a photographer?5. Founded in 1922, which general interest magazine uses the winged

horse Pegasus as it’s logo?6. From August 3rd 2007, the Daily Express dedicated at least part of

its next 100 front pages to which story?7. Which of the Tweenies has the same name as a women’s weekly

magazine?8. In March 1986, which now-defunct newspaper became the first

British daily newspaper to feature colour photographs?9. Which Sunday newspaper publishes a “Rich List” each year,

featuring a list of the 1,000 wealthiest people in the uK?10. Which magazine was originally intended to have a name with two

more letters that it has in its current name, the reason for the change being that people might have incorrectly thought it was a magazine about snooker?

Fun Quiz - Magazines and Newspapers

1. Playboy 2. Mystic Meg 3. Films 4. The Daily Bugle 5. Readers Digest 6.The disappearance of Madeleine McCann 7. Bella 8. Today

9. The Sunday Time 10. Q (originally intended to be Cue)


Shannon Court, High Street, Sandy

Offices and Shop unit to Let in prime location

From 173 Sq ftFlexible Terms

Please contact Natalie Bassett01954 234200 or

[email protected]


As you grow older, making sure your home is safe and secure gives you extra peace of mind.Even if you are fit and active, you may realise that at times you don’t have as much energy, find it harder to balance, or that your eyesight is not as good as it used to be. This is why it is so important that your home is a safe place to be so that you can minimise the risk of accidents, particularly if you live alone. Reducing risksFalls are the most common and serious type of accident for those over 65. Make sure every area of your home is free of floor clutter to reduce your chances of tripping. Make sure you have good lighting in each room so that you can see where you are going and wear flat, well-fitting shoes rather than loose-fitting slippers indoors. Keep active by taking keep fit or dance classes and walk when you can, rather than driving or taking the bus, to keep your muscles strong. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will also help you to maintain strength and stamina. It’s also a good idea to have regular health and eye checks.

SAFETY In THE HOME AGE CONCERN

KitchenBad burns to those over 65 can be fatal as the body finds it harder to fight infection. Scalds from boiling kettle water are very common. Other danger points are cookers and radiators. To reduce the risk, use a cordless kettle and only boil enough water for your immediate needs, such as a hot drink. Make sure you have space to put down hot pans and plates and try to use the back burners of the cooker to reduce the chance of spilling something over you.Living roomMake sure carpets are well fitted and if you have any loose edges, ask a relative or handyman in to nail this down properly. It’s better to avoid small rugs if you can. Make sure you have things such as remotes and the telephone close to where you sit so you don’t have to keep getting up and down. Gas fires, boilers and heaters should be checked regularly by an expert. Hallway/stairsAgain, make sure carpets are well-fitted, particularly on the stairs. Try not to leave things cluttering the stairs to reduce the risk of falling. Fitting a letter tray to the inside of your letterbox means you don’t have to keep bending down. Keep keys and your handbag well away from the front door. If you don’t already have one fitted, do install a smoke alarm - they are relatively cheap and could save your life.BathroomWhen running a bath, it’s best to run the hot and cold taps together to reduce the risk of scalding. Always check the water temperature before stepping in. use a non-slip rubber mat if you are worried about your balance and slipping. Have a hand rail fitted on the wall to help you step in and out. BedroomIf you use an electric blanket always switch it off before getting into bed. It’s best to avoid these if you have incontinence problems. Regularly check the cord for fraying or scorch marks. Remember to have the phone, remote control, drink and medicine beside the bed before you get in.Getting helpSome local authorities offer free help for small jobs around the home, so do check with yours or through Age Concern: www.ageconcern.co.uk


Bedfordshire Country ShowOld Warden Park, SG18 9EA Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th July 20129.30am - 6.00pm A great

day out

for all the

family

www.bedfordshirecountyshow.co.uk

Arena Acts

Food Court

CraftFair


Computer Supp l y & Repa i r

Fast, friendly and local supportfor all your computer and technology needs.

Repairs, Upgrades, Custom Builds etc.Virus and Spyware Removal, PC Health Checks,

Software/Hardware Sales, Networking and Wireless

No Call Out Fee Why pay shop prices when you can have a faster, cheaper and more personal service to your door available? With work guaranteed and a No Fix, No Fee motto, why shop anywhere else for your

Computer needs?

The Gadget Guy Phone: 01767 641680 Mobile: 07776 497004 Email: [email protected] Web: www.thegadgetguy.co.uk


ALLIAnCE FOSTER CARE A TRuE STORY

Luke Rodgers, Young Person’s Ambassador, often ends his workshops by asking the participants to predict where they think that the young man whose case they have been assessing ended up. ‘‘Prison’ they tell me, or unhappy and drug addicted, or leading a life of crime. When I tell them that that young man – a boy who was in and out of care all of his childhood, abused, abandoned, troubled and in trouble – was in fact me, their response is astonishment. Hardly anyone is able to believe that it is possible for a young person to pull themselves out of the situation that I was in. But the few that do believe – it’s those people that children need, the ones who can believe in them, will trust them when no one else does, will make sure they have the support and access to the tools they have to have to build and hold onto their own expectations and then to live up to them.’‘I was born into a violent family. One of my earliest memories is of my father being violent to my mother.’ Luke explains. ‘The truth is she drank heavily and she and my father could not get on. But all along I thought that what happened in our house was normal, that my Dad hitting my Mum meant that he loved her.

‘When I was about four my Mum met someone else and moved out. Steve seemed kind and at first I was happy living with them, even though I missed my Dad terribly. I think it was this that made Steve, my step-dad, so angry and he began hitting me. My Mum, who was very bitter about the years of violence she had suffered, wouldn’t let me see my Dad which made me miss him all the more which meant that I got beaten more and more. It was a horrible circle and there seemed no way out until I was seven years old and the day came when my Mum finally cracked and took me to my Dad’s house and left me on the doorstep. ‘Of course I was happy at first, but it soon became impossible to stay with my Dad and I had to go back to my Mum’s. The abuse from my step-dad was worse then and because we moved about so much – I went to thirteen different primary schools, three different ones in one year, I never had the chance to make any real friends or connect with someone who might notice that something was wrong. I became a slave in the house, doing all the domestic work and being beaten for the smallest thing. I often screamed for my Dad and then my Mum would take me to him but he couldn’t help me long-term, and I would really miss my Mum who actually had custody of me, and so I would end up back with her and my step-dad again.‘When I was eleven the bruises on my neck were noticed by a school friend and I told him what was going on. He said that I could come home with him and his parents took me in and told me I didn’t have to go home anymore. I got a lot of strength from that, the fact that I could and had done something to change my life, that I was believed and I did have some sort of control.‘Through the next years I stayed in a few different foster homes and learned a lot about my Dad which left me disillusioned. It turned out that he wasn’t someone I could admire after all. I was scared and disappointed with myself - when I was suspended from school I realized that most people, my foster parents


included, thought that I was no good and I wanted, so badly, to prove them wrong. ‘Over the next few years I became a Persistent Young Offender and was in court many times. I missed all of year nine at school, took drugs, committed crimes, was in and out of foster and care homes. No one had time for someone who seemed so determined to get into trouble. They all just saw and reported the negatives.‘When I was fifteen, I was taken in by a foster family who lived far out in the country. They told me that they didn’t have set meal times and that I could eat whatever I wanted. I was amazed and tucked into a big chicken pie that I found in the fridge. No one stopped me, no one treated me like I was bad and for about eighteen months things got better and my behavior really improved.‘The problem was that I just couldn’t settle, I had become so used to trouble and trauma that I couldn’t stand things being so easy, so quiet, and regrettably I decided to leave. It wasn’t long afterwards that I ended up in a children’s home again, in court every Thursday, a Persistent Young Offender once more. I remember the magistrate telling me that I was headed for prison. I was really shocked and I wanted prove him wrong but I didn’t have the tools to do that. Thankfully I was put in a programme of Treatment Foster Care where I had to earn points in order to be able to watch TV, have a mobile phone or see a friend. Points were easy to earn at first but the expectations were raised all the time so that my behavior had to improve too. It took six months to reflect on my life and come to see that I had been blaming my past for all the wrong choices I had been making – I didn’t want to do that anymore and so I got back into

school and tried to work hard. I knew I didn’t belong with my family, I was so different to them and my Mum said I would end up dead in a ditch or in prison - but I badly wanted to prove her wrong, and everyone else who had judged me so negatively.‘The night that changed my life was when I had ended up homeless again but I was found a place in a B and B by social services. It was an awful place but I didn’t care. I was on my own, I could look after myself and I didn’t have to rely on anyone else. I finally had some control over my own life – I cooked my own meals, went to school, joined a gym and got fit. Before too long I had the chance to go back to the foster carers I had really been happy with – they even got me another chicken pie to welcome me back! This time though they put me in a cottage where I could be independent and look after myself. This was such a chance for me and I did everything I could to make it work. I studied hard and got four A-levels. I wanted to be a social worker so that I could change the world but I soon learned that social workers have their own challenges that make their jobs really tough. I fell into my job as a Young Persons’ Ambassador by accident but it is absolutely what I want to do. I am a success story and I want to share that with everyone but also help young people find a voice, to share their stories too so that they can help others survive their tough times, believe in themselves and understand that they deserve that trust and belief from others too. Good foster carers, made all the difference to me and my story. They are the ones who really have faith in young people, who are willing to help a troubled person and give them their belief –and trust that they will come through.

In Luke’s capacity as the Young Persons Ambassador for Alliance Foster Care he delivers workshops for staff and foster carers. His personal experiences and honest account of his time in care provides us with an excellent insight into the needs of looked after children. With this

better understanding of the experiences of children coming into care we are able to tailor our services to better meet the individual needs and wishes of the children in placement. At Alliance Foster Care we believe that all children should be given every opportunity to reach

their full potential. If you would like to learn more about Alliance Foster Care and the work that we do please contact

ALLIAnCE FOSTER CARE 01604 879373


After all those weeks in early summer when it seemed unable to stop raining, many plants will have been lulled into a false sense of security. And those of us who look after the plants are also likely to have become a little too used to not worrying about what and how to water to best effect, and how to minimise the effects of dry weather. So if you’re now finding yourself battling with the effects of a more text-book summer, here are my tips for coping:Mulching really does help to keep the moisture in the soil. It’s important to make sure the soil is really well watered BEFORE you apply the mulch, so water well or wait until after there has been a heavy rainfall. Then around the area, covering the roots of the plant (or preferably a bit further) shovel on well-rotted manure, composted bark or garden compost. Don’t forget that vegetables as well as flowers benefit from mulching.A slow but steady supply of water is generally more use and more appreciated by plants than intermittent heavy drenching. newly planted trees and shrubs establish better and suffer drought stress less if the soil is never allowed to dry out completely. Installing some perforated or permeable pipe beneath the soil surface or on the surface but beneath the mulch provides just what they need. If you’re making any new plantings for the patio right now, don’t risk them becoming drought stressed before their moment of autumn or winter glory comes. When planting up late season patio pots, decrease the effects of the summer sun by lining the insides of the pot with bubble-wrap polythene.When you do need to use extra water on your garden, try to apply it in the evening or otherwise as early as you can in the morning. Less will be lost by evaporation and there will also be less likelihood of plants suffering scorching. However much you’ve taken a fancy to a gorgeous looking plant in your local garden centre, don’t buy it right now. In hot, dry conditions it is much harder for a plant to become established and much more likely that it’ll suffer stress.A bit of temporary shading, perhaps in the form of some shade netting (available from garden centres) or some large, leafy branches driven in to the soil, will help to keep things a little cooler during the hotter weather. It may not look great,

DRY WEATHER GARDEnInGBY PIPPA GREENWOOD

but it could save you a packet in replacing plants. Vegetable plants can be covered with netted cloches (like the Giant Easy net Tunnels available from my website) to achieve the same effect – and these will also help to keep off many potential pests too.Siphoning water out from the bath is a great way to re-use domestic water. The usual tiny quantities of soap or bubble bath used by most of us won’t cause any problems with plants and makes a great drink for trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables.Remember that some plants are more tolerant of dry conditions than others, so next time you do shop for plants, it may be worth bearing this in mind. On the whole, plants with silvery or densely hairy leaves are pretty drought tolerant, as are those whose names imply that they are of Mediterranean origin. Some of my favourite drought-resisters include: convolvulus cneorum – stunning silvery leaves and miniature white flowers, often with a touch of pink, which resemble those of morning glories.rosemary – this shrub has great purple flowers and wonderfully aromatic foliage, perfect for cooking, and when mature many people use the wood to make barbeque skewers which are said to impart a delightful rosemary aroma to the meat.senecio maritima – a pretty divided leafed plant with dense hair on the leaves making it look silvery.gazanias – with their large orange, brown and burgundy flowers and silvered leaves, they look a treat in patio pots of summer borders. lavenders – aromatic leaves and perfumed blue, lilac purple or white flower spikes, this cottage garden favourite is also a magnet for bees.Geraniums and their cousins, Pelargoniums, are both very drought resistant, and come with foliage that is often attractively marked and pretty flowers. pelargoniums, usually the more flamboyantly coloured of the two, are not hardy but great in summer containers and the herbaceous geraniums should last for years.


For further information please call Trevor onTel: 01767 261845 Mobile: 07941 187689

Email: [email protected]

Wrought iron work, made to order, including

• stairs• benches• individualbeds• furniture

Pottons Specialist Welding and Fabricating Company

Gemmaton for all your welding needs

• Suppliersofmanualandautomatedgates• Securitydoorsandgrills• Fireescapes• Allweldingprojects


GILKS FENCING LTD

Tel: 01767 681746 Fax: 01767 681776www.gilksfencing.co.uk Email: [email protected]

QUALITY AND SERVICE

Membership No. 200424

Supplying of all types of gates and fencing to trade and public.•Closeboard Fencing• TGV Gates• Trellis Made to Customers Design• Lap Panel Fencing• Railings• Chain Link• Knee Rail Fencing• Concrete Slotted Posts• Professional Installation Available

•Maintenance free•Environmentally friendly•Stronger and lighter than concrete posts•Unique natural wood-grain finish•Dual faced fencing posts and gravel boards•Will not rot, crack, chip or split

We are looking for show gardens to promote this exciting new product. Excellent prices

for the first few selected. Interested? Call us.

New Address for Gilks Fencing Ltd

Drove Road, Gamlingay, Sandy, Beds SG19 2HX


The seed varieties were meticulously inspected and then carefully selected. The seed trays were scrupulously cleaned and the seed sown. The seedlings were handled with utmost care nurtured and finally planted out during the best possible conditions….. and then the following morning every single one had been decimated leaving behind only microscopic remnants of once-vigorous cabbage plants. The woodpigeons had paid a visit! Nothing could be done to resuscitate them and I resolved that the only solution was to make some wire-mesh deterrents before next Spring.A similar outcome occurred with the squash plants. As soon as they had been planted out, the lurking snails thought it was heaven and emerged from their hiding places to shred this wonderful addition to their diet which had appeared as if by magic.Of course I could have anticipated all this and thrown a liberal handful of slug pellets around each transplant but knowing the adverse effects of earlier formulations on our song-bird populations such as thrushes, I was reluctant to do so. So I paid the price!However, a few weeks later we were to be graced by arrival of a song thrush and we were graced by his melodic presence which more than compensated for the loss a few paltry plants. Funny how things work out! A few days later I was up early and happened to come across a large dark bird low in the undergrowth surrounded by a multitude of smaller birds all shrieking and squarking and obviously under a great deal of distress. I couldn’t quite see what was happening but out popped a mahogany-brown Tawny owl and by the commotion which was going on, it was probable the owl had been in the process of getting it’s birdie breakfast. Fortunately for us (and him), a short time later, the thrush restarted to sing, so the snack hadn’t been him!It would have been ever so easy to get angry

RuRAL RAMBLInGS BY GEOFF WHARTOnFEATHERED FRIENDS?

with all this turmoil and to have taken more direct action against the perpetrators. In retrospect I am glad to have let nature take it’s course and only develop preventative strategies. I see that now the buzzard and other predatory bird populations are finally start to recover, some conflict situations are starting to occur. There was a suggestion that buzzards should be controlled again as they were seen to be causing problems with pheasant rearing. Fortunately for the buzzards, their protection has been continued, following the concerns expressed by other members of the public.Birds of prey, will by their nature, always have the potential for disrupting other (wild)life, but as long as the damage is not too great, surely their beauty more than compensates for any small financial loss?

G e o f f W h a r t o n G a r d e n i n g S e r v i c e s

Reliable, experienced, well qualified.General and specialist garden work:

Jungle clearing, Pruning, Hedge and grass cutting,

Regular maintenance, Licensed waste disposal.

Full public liability cover.

Geoff Wharton - BSC honours Hort.ScienceEmail:[email protected]

T e l : 0 1 7 6 7 2 6 1 7 2 7


J.R. Bibby Turf SuppliesQuality Turf with a Quality Service

Professional Turf Laying ServiceWeed Treated & FertilizedFast DeliveryCommercial and DomesticFree Estimates All Areas CoveredHard Landscaping Large or Small Jobs Undertaken

•

••••••

For your Free Estimate call Joe on:

01767 - 260 550

For your Free Estimate call Joe on:

01767 - 260 550


At the heart of Central America, Costa Rica has set aside 30% of its land for conservation, a higher percentage than any other nation. Framed by the Caribbean to the north and the Pacific to the south, barely the size of England, this little gem of a place claims over 180 nature reserves, including 32 national parks. Businessmen, farmers or government ministers, all agree that preserving the natural world is more important than financial gain. Eco-tourism is thriving and hotels are rated according to their green policy. Officially, this is the happiest country on earth.So from beaches or coastal wetlands to volcanic peaks, from rainforest and jungle to montane cloud forests, Costa Rica is home to an enticing variety of flora and fauna, among them rare specimens and more types of butterflies than in the whole of Africa. Over 800 species of birds have been recorded, mostly residents, while mammals include giant anteaters, jaguars and vampire bats. For the brave, there are thrilling skywalks right up in the treetops, along suspended walkways.One of the easiest national parks to explore is Carara on the south coast where cicadas sing in the raintrees and butterflies the size of your hand flutter, vivid blue, along the stream. There are pale-billed woodpeckers, boar, striped tiger ants and lizards which can run on water. Wild lilies and hibiscus splash colour along the jungle trails and now and then, a pair of red macaws takes flight as spider monkeys swing on their long dangling limbs to claim the sweet blossom of a flame tree.On the outskirts of Carara, crocodiles bask on the muddy banks of the Tarcoles river, while toucans with rainbow-coloured bills land in the treetops. Sunsets over the estuary are spectacular with hundreds of egrets coming to roost in the mangrove and howler monkeys gathering their troops for the night.A fair drive south, Manuel Antonio is the smallest of the national parks but boasts a rich biodiversity on both land and sea. Trails lead around the rugged peninsula and along pure white sands fringed with turquoise waters. There are offshore islands, racoons and iguanas and white-faced Capuchin monkeys draped on low branches.On the Caribbean coast, the remote Tortuguero National Park covers the nesting sites of green

costa rica - natural WorldBY SOLANGE HANDO

and other turtles and a maze of canals, deltas and lagoons where water fowl and otters live in peaceful surroundings. From palms to lagoons and swamps, the park preserves 11 life zones and access is only by boat.For Costa Ricans, respect for the natural world is unconditional and that includes the awesome volcanoes in the central highlands. Most iconic is Arenal, rising to over 5000 feet, which in May 1998 managed 23 eruptions in a single day. Now, it is dormant, its funnel top lost in the clouds or mirrored in the lake, surrounded by lush scenery and hot springs gushing out from the lower slopes.Towering above the capital of San José are Irazu, the highest volcano at 11,200 feet, and Poas which claims the world’s largest active crater, 0.9 miles across and 900 feet deep. Drifting in and out of the mist, belching out fumes from the green lagoon, it showers the forest with acid rain. There are four habitats in its national park, including a unique dwarf forest where ramblers might spot the yellow-green squirrel found nowhere else in the world.


Can I go to the Paddocks for my Holiday please?

Paddocks Boarding CatteryPeaceful location. No dogs boarded.Spacious, individual, heated chalets

with large covered runs.Inspection welcome. Boarding from £6.00/day.

Rabbits/guinea pigs also boarded.64 Meadow Road, Great Gransden

Telephone 01767 677 759 www.catterybedfordshire.co.uk

Open all year.

The cattery for caring owners.Comfort and security for your pet.

• Heat-stroke can be fatal, so be aware of the signs – excessive panting, heavy salivation, rapid pulse, very red gums/tongue, lethargy, lack of co-ordination, being unable to get up after collapsing, vomiting and diarrhoea. If you suspect heat-stroke, move your pet to a shaded, cool area and contact your vet immediately.

Our weather can be unpredictable – and extreme. Even if it’s cool and rainy when you leave your pet, there could be a sharp temperature rise within a relatively short space of time. Please protect your pet so everyone can have a great summer.ANIMAL KNOW-HOW is one of a series of articles brought to you by the RSPCA North Bedfordshire branch. www.rspca-bedfordshirenorth.org.uk

Unpredictable. That’s perhaps the safest way of describing a British summer! This can be annoying for humans, but disastrous for our animals. unlike us, many animals can’t sweat through their skin. They only cool down by sweating through sweat glands in their feet and panting. So it’s important that you help your pets to stay cool.• Never leave them in a car, conservatory or caravan

on a warm or hot day – temperatures can become lethal in a matter of minutes.

• Never leave them in direct sunlight– they need access to a cool, shady place at all times of day. Remember your fish, hamsters, gerbils, mice guinea pigs, rabbits and birds, as well as your dogs and cats.

• Make sure they have a constant supply of clean, fresh drinking water – to replace any water that is lost through sweating and panting, and avoid dehydration.

• Protect them from sunburn – animals with light coloured noses, or light coloured fur on their ears are especially sensitive.

aniMal knoW-HoWYOuR PET AND OuR WEATHER


aniMal knoW-HoWYOuR PET AND OuR WEATHER

MILLSTREAM DOG GROOMING

T. 01767 682 601M. 07818 442 901

email: [email protected]

Local friendly dog grooming in Park Court, SandyA refreshing bath or a full groom your dog will be

in safe hands in a stress free and calm environment(No cages in my salon!) Contact Wendy for

more details, to discuss your individual requirements and make an appointment.

• Collection/delivery by arrangement• (City & Guilds qualified and fully insured)

Professional Dog & Cat Grooming

Hydro Massage BathingBespoke Dog & Cat Grooming

Handstripping SpecialistsDe-shedding TreatmentsOpen Plan Grooming

38 Shortmead St Biggleswadewww.hollywooddogs.co.uk

01767 600 212

Find us on Facebook


This month’s invention is literally right in front of us – paper. The credit for its invention goes to that amazing country China. Some 2000 years ago, Cai Lun, an Imperial Court official, created a sheet of paper suitable for writing by mashing, pressing and drying mulberry and other bast fibres mixed with old rags, fishnets and hemp waste. However, even earlier uses of paper in China have been found, the oldest being a map found at Fangmatan dating from 179-141 BC.Papermaking spread slowly from China as they were reluctant to share its secret. A legend tells that after the defeat of the Chinese in the battle of Talas (751AD) in present-day Kyrgyzstan, two Chinese prisoners bought their lives by revealing paper making secrets, leading to the first Islamic paper mill in Samarkand. The Muslim world quickly improved the process, using water power and trip hammers to replace the manual pounding of the materials.

inVentions - paperBY LEON F. JONES

In Europe, the oldest known paper document is the Mozarab Missal of Silos, dating from the 11th century. European paper production has been recorded in Spain in 1151, Italy in 1276 and Germany in 1320 with a mill established at Nuremburg in 1390. Due to their noise and smell they were required by medieval law to be erected outside of a city’s perimeter!The first English paper mill was established in 1490 near Stevenage, but the first commercially successful mill was established by John Spitman near Dartford in 1588 using German expertise (no doubt patronised by William Shakespeare!)Thanks to the Chinese we have the materials to produce our magazine and you have the pleasure of reading it! Thank you, Cai Lun!


Swimming

Lessons• Privatepool-Tadlow• ASAqualifiedteachers• Beginners&stroketechniqueclasses• 1-3pupilsperclass• 10weekcourses(termtimeonly)• MotherandToddlerclasses

Cal l Heather onTel : 01767631053Mob: 07885516561

4dance machine

summer 2012

bikeability

healthy walks

urbanrebounding zumba

To find out more information about activities during Summer 2012 for adults and young people, please contact the Community Physical Activity Team on: 0300 300 8072 or email: [email protected]

www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/healthierlifestyles


Although you might imagine that the main reason people stay in the UK for the summer is lack of money, it’s not always the case. Not everyone likes the hassle of travelling, particularly those who are elderly and not up to facing the scrum of airports and ferry terminals. And if you are a parent of young children the journey is enough to put you off going away at all.We do have a beautiful country with some fascinating history and lots going on. But people travel overseas simply because we can’t rely on our weather. Chances are though, if you take a two week break at home - either in your own home or in a holiday rental property - there will be some days that are lovely and can be made every bit as enjoyable as being abroad. The trick is preparing as much as possible beforehand, so when the forecast says the next day will be warm you’ll be ready to leave early and beat the crowds.Firstly you need to think about the ‘equipment’ you’ll need. If you are planning a picnic lunch gather up the essentials and have them packed up ready to go. Picnic blankets are the lightest and smallest to carry but older members of the family might need a fold up chair. Games add to the fun so include a football, a Frisbee or buckets and spades. Younger children can have a small rucksack containing drawing materials.The food of course is a highlight of a day out and unless you are planning a pub lunch you should buy and prepare as much as you can well in advance. Biscuits, crisps and drinks and the obligatory tea bags, sugar, cups and a teaspoon should be packed in readiness. Make sure plastic containers have their lids with them and flasks their stoppers, and you won’t be scrabbling around at the back of the cupboard at the last minute.Other essentials include sun lotion, tissues/kitchen towel, a rubbish bag and hand wipes – baby wipes make excellent all-purpose cleaning cloths. Some first aid materials won’t go amiss either, particularly plasters and sting relief cream. We all know that the forecast isn’t always right, so put a few jumpers in a bag too.Next, you need to decide where to go. Brainstorm ideas with your family: trips that only take a half day; beach or river destinations for the warmest days; places that have indoor

MAkInG THE MOST OF A STAYCATIOnSPECIAL REPORT

entertainment nearby if the weather turns or you decide to make a longer day. Include locations to go to when you have more of a budget e.g. theme parks, and also those that are free if you are trying to suit everybody without spending a fortune. If you have children, the website www.letsgowiththechildren.co.uk is an excellent source of ideas and www.resort-guide.co.uk is also a good site to visit. When the sun arrives, you’ll be able to quickly select an ideal spot from your list.The night before you go, top up the car with fuel, print out directions or set up the satnav, prepare any fresh food, withdraw some cash and put phones and cameras on charge. Most importantly, agree a leaving time for the next morning with the family. If you say 8 o’clock you have a chance of being on your way by 8:30; if you don’t say a time at all everybody will be working to their own plan and you will have wasted precious sunny hours.


CLAYTON FAMILY BUTCHERS19, Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

Shop Telephone: 01767 261503

We also supply catering establishments from our specialist unit in Sandy, Bedfordshire - Telephone: (01767) 699940

Are proud to sell meat from two of the most innovative and exciting premium range producers in East Anglia

Dingley Dell Pork from an outdoor Suffolk-based pig farm which is one of the few ambassador farms for the RSPCA’s Freedom Food Scheme. Dingley Dell produces pork with fantastic

flavours due to the breeds of pig raised, high welfare standards and a balanced diet and lifestyle. All Pork at Claytons is Dingley Dell Pork and all of our home-made sausages and Pork Pies

are made from Dingley Dell Pork.

Riverside Beef - specialist producers of the finest quality British Beef in harmony with nature. The cattle spend their summers grazing the riverside pastures and water meadows of

Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, resulting in the highest quality, beautifully tasting British beef. At Claytons all our premium quality Beef is Riverside Beef.


SEASOnAL DELIGHTSCHERRY POTS WITH FLuFFY MERINGuE TOPS

Method1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/ gas mark 7. 2. Place the cherries in a pan with the brown

sugar and red wine. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer gently for 10 minutes until soft.

3. Spoon the cherries in to 4 large ramekins. Roughly crumble the amaretti biscuits onto the top, dividing them equally.

4. In a large bowl, whisk the egg whites to a stiff peak. Start adding the sugar gradually, whisking all the time until the meringue is glossy. Spoon onto the top of the cherries.

5. Bake for 5-8 minutes until the meringue is golden. Serve with nothing else but a chilled glass of dessert wine or a generous glass of cassis.

Serves 4

Prep time 20 minutesCooking time 20 minutes

Ingredients

500g fresh cherries, pitted and cut in to half50g soft brown sugar

150ml red wine8 amaretti biscuits3 large egg whites

150g golden caster sugar


In the glory days, Peugeot shifted 7.7 million 206s and the iconic 205 before that found 5.2 million homes. The lacklustre 207 however never caught buyers’ imaginations - flopping with just 2.3 million shifted during its lifecycle. Now the French firm is hoping the all new 208 can bring back the glory days and sales success to its dealers once again. However, things are a lot tougher these days. Back in 2001, there were just 16 rivals in the B segment in which the 200 series models compete. Fast forward ten years and now there are 27 direct rivals vying for car buyers’ cash. But Peugeot hopes its new challenger can tackle the market leading Ford Fiesta head on. Aimed squarely at the sector sales leaders, the French firm hopes cute looks, competitive pricing and higher spec than rivals will be enough to tempt buyers to turn French. Sales of the 208 will ultimately make up a third of Peugeot dealers’ volume too, and in 2013 the firm hopes to shift 45,000 units, so there’s some serious weight on this little hatch’s shoulders. But is it any good? Well, yes and no. Firstly there’s an impressive choice of engines. There are five petrol units and five diesels to choose from and with sales expected to be split 50/50 between the fuel types that comes as little surprise. We tried the petrol 1.6-litre 155bhp, diesel 1.6-litre HDI with 115bhp, and the 1.2-litre three cylinder petrol. The diesel was excellent, but our pick has to be the characterful 1.2-litre with 82bhp and 118Nm of torque. It’s both great fun to drive yet economical too, returning 62.7mpg on the combined cycle and emitting just 104g/km. On the road it’s really rather good. Dynamically it’s composed and even in the lesser powered models it’s good fun to chuck around bends. The ride quality is impressive, but we did find the steering very light in town. The driving position is also strange with a tiny steering wheel that’s hard to position without obscuring the clocks. Overall, though, it drives like a little French hatch back should do - and we mean that in a positive way!The sales clincher is really on the spec sheets. Peugeot has aimed for all trim levels to be just that little bit better than Fiesta - and in this market that’s vital.

PEuGEOT 208BY JAMES BAGGOTT

The most popular trim, taking 40 per cent of sales, will be the Active. As standard on this model you have that all important air con, a touchscreen display, 15-inch alloys, cruise control, Bluetooth with audio streaming and uSB. There are plenty of options too, notably sat nav, which unfortunately is a little fiddly to use. Overall, we can’t help but like the 208 and it’s clear there’s a very good car in there waiting to escape (that’ll be the GTI). However, the design is a little fussy inside and out and the Ford Fiesta is a well established and popular rival. Priced from £9,995, the new 208 goes head to head with key rivals from Ford and Vauxhall. However, it remains to be seen whether its funky new looks and tech advances will be enough to bring the glory days back to Peugeot once again.

Model: Peugeot 208 Price: From £9,995

Engine: 1.2-litre, 3cylPower: 82bhp, 118nm Max speed: 108mph

0-60mph: 12.1sMPG: 62.7

Emissions: 104g/kmResidual values (three years): TBC, but expect

them on a par with VW Polo


Potton Based Local and Long Distance Private Hire

Airport/Stations/Nights Out etc

Can now carry up to 7 passengers + luggage in our new Luxury MPV.

4 Passenger car also available.

Airport Transfers From Luton £40, Stansted £65, Heathrow £80, Gatwick £130

Tel: 01767 261871 Mob: 07983 218367www.mats-cars.co.uk

All major credit/debit cards accepted

Mats Cars

Personal chauffeur service

Providing a luxurious first class chauffeur service for any occasion including:

Airport TransfersCorporate & media travel

Sports & social eventsSpecial occasions

evenings outWeddings

Please contact us: Tel: 07901 65 66 62E-mail: [email protected]

www.opulentexecutivetravel.co.uk

All local and long distance travel catered for


Your ‘main dealer’ alternative………..Established over 20 years we have grown from strength to strength by word

of mouth referrals due to the quality of our work and service.

We provide vehicle maintenance, repairs and diagnostics for most makes ofvehicles and have invested in training and state of the art diagnostic

equipment to meet the demands of the modern car.We also provide:• Servicing & Repairs• MOT’s on Site, including 4 x 4 Vehicles• Air Conditioning • Tyres • 4 Wheel Laser Alignment• Batteries & Exhausts • American Vehicle Service & Diagnostics• Vehicle Recovery & Transportation Service • Collect & Delivery Service • Courtesy Cars

Telephone: 01767 680868Email: [email protected]: www.froodsautoservices.co.uk10 Darlington Close, Sunderland Road, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 1RW

It is our policy to keep our customers informed at all times with the fault, cause, cure and estimated cost which will be reported to the

customer before we carry out any repair work. We recognise that it is important to use Original Equipment (OE) parts and the manufacturers recommended engine lubricants to prevent premature engine damage

and this is standard practice.Personal Attention and Professional Service

SANDY M.O.T CENTREWhile-you-wait testing on site

FROODS AUTOSERVICES

Follow us on facebookand find out the latest Special Offers

75

ABOVE ALL AutocentreUnit 1, Sand Road Ind. Est., Great Gransden SG19 3AH

Tel: 01767 679000

10% discount with this advert

MOT TESTINGFor class 4 or 7 vehiclesClass IV Cars and vans up to 3000kgClass VII Vans over 3000kg up to 3500kg

DIAGNOSTICS - SNAP ON Diagnostic fault finding centre.

EXHAUSTS - Supplied and fitted to all makes of cars and vans.

BATTERIES - Supplied and fitted two and three year guarantee.

BRAKES - Discs Pads Shoes. Cylinders etc supplied and fitted.

CODE READING - Trace & rectify those alarming red dashboard warning lights.

TYRES - All makes inc. Budget Avon, Dunlop, Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli.

SERVICINGGood Garage Scheme

Industry Standard ServiceOr to manufacturer specification


1 JulySt Neots Concert Band Summer Concert

7.30pm Trinity Methodist Church, BiggleswadeAdults £8, Concessions £5

Anne Templer and Claire Rawson who founded the band in 2005 are delighted to be conducting the

performance which will include pieces by Gilbert and Sullivan, Gershwin, Gordon Jacob along with musical interludes played by a Saxophone Quartet. Proceeds

from the concert will go to St Neots Concert Band and Trinity Community Fund. Refreshments will be served

in the interval. Tel: Fiona Fitzhugh 01480 811705

4 & 18 July, 1 AugustWhist Drive

7.30pm Conservative Club, Brook End, PottonFortnightly Wednesday Whist Drive. All welcome.

Tel: Anita 01767 260726 for more information

6 JulyBingo Night

7.30pm Moggerhanger Village HallMonthly Bingo Friday night with cash prizes, raffle and licensed bar. All proceeds to support the Village Hall.

Tel: Carolyn 01767 640727

6 & 7 July40’s Showcase

7.30pm Stuart Memorial Hall, TempsfordTickets £7

Kingfisher Players presents 40’s Showcase with dancing, songs from the 40’s and sketches. Come

along and dress up – enjoy the atmosphere.Tel: 01767 691982 Web: www.kingfisherplayers.co.uk

7 & 8 July‘Reflections’ Flower Festival

17 July 10am-6pm, 18 July 12 noon-6pmSt Swithun’s Church, Sandy

Free admissionCelebrating 60 Glorious Years of HM The Queen’s

Reign. Refreshments available (lunch on Saturday and Cream Teas on Sunday).

8 JulyAmerican Forces Charity Day

10am Bedford Autodrome, Thurleigh Airfield Business Park, Thurleigh

Tickets £5 in advance, £8 on the day and includes entrance to the Museum

This special charity event in conjunction with the uSAF 306th Bombardment Group Museum at Bedford Autodrome will be a day of fun, dance and nostalgia.Special flypast by the only remaining airworthy B-17

Flying Fortress.Among the attractions will be vintage military vehicles,

WHAT’S On?IN JuLY

jitterbug dancing, Harley Davidsons, Trade Stands, classic cars and plenty of refreshments including a hog roast. Celebrating 10 years of the 306th Bombardment

Group Museum and 5 years of the East Anglia Air Ambulance. Raising funds for the EAAA.

For more information or tickets please contact:Ralph Franklin 01234 708715 / 306museum@nscmh.

fsnet.co.ukJo Harris 01525 718517 / [email protected]

8 JulySummer Concert

Gates open 1.30pm, concert 3pmMoggerhanger Park, MoggerhangerAdults £6, Concessions £4, Family £15

East Beds Concert Band summer concert which will feature some well-known TV and film music, and

there’ll be something for everyone from Thunderbirds to the Pirates of the Caribbean. This year, East Beds

Concert Band will be performing the wind band world premiere of “When the dancers depart” by Roger

Nichols, specially arranged for the band. Please bring a picnic, and rugs or chairs and to sit in the fabulous grounds whilst enjoying a wide selection of music.

Alternatively you can enjoy food from the refreshment tents, and fantastic home-made ice-cream from Mr and

Mrs Maynards.

13, 14 and 15 July“The Gransden Time Travellers are coming....”

2pm & 5.30pm & 7.30pmLittle and Great Gransden

Adults £6, Concessions and school children £3To mark the Queen’s Jubilee Year The Revellers Drama

Group and The Gransdens’ Society have organised a weekend of events which look at the past of the

two villages and take a peep into the future. On both days The Revellers will perform two “promenade”

performances each day at 2.00pm and 5.30pm, starting in Little Gransden Village Hall and finishing in Great Gransden. The audience will walk from one historic

location to another and watch seven scenes covering a time span of 900 years.

On Friday 13 July there will be a “seated” performance in Little Gransden Village Hall at 7.30pm for those who

do not wish to promenade.Tickets available from the end of June at Great

Gransden Village Stores or telephone Gloria Sayer 01767 679164

Web: www.roundaboutrevellers.com

13 & 27 JulyWhist Drive

7.30pm Moggerhanger Village HallFortnightly Friday Whist Drive. Refreshments included.

Tel: Carolyn 01767 640727 for more information

Entries into our What’s On sections are free. If you have an event you would like us to publicise

please email the details to [email protected]


14 JulySummer Fete

10am St Swithun’s Church, SandyFree admission

Something for everyone including homemade cakes, books, toys, handicrafts, bric-a-brac, plants, handmade greetings cards and much more. Refreshments will be

served in the Church Rooms.

14 JulyEvening of Clairvoyance with Phil Griggs

7.30-9.00pm, Doors open at 7pmWI Hall, Gamlingay Tickets £5

Individual readings will be offered from 9pm (additional charge applies). For -enquiries or to book a reading

email [email protected]. Licensed Bar. This event is organised by Sunshine Pre-school.

Tickets from The Crafty Cupcake (Church Street, Gamlingay) and Londis (Mill Street, Gamlingay).

Web: www.sunshine-gamlingay.ik.org

14 JulyQuiz Night

7.30pm for an 8pm startBurgoyne Middle School, Mill Lane, Potton

£8.00 per person - maximum of 6 people per teamIncludes fish & chips or sausage & chips (vegetarian

option available on request). Licensed bar.Please contact Natalie on 01767 691477/07813 305601 or email [email protected] for more information

or book up your team

14 JulyCelebration Concert

7.30pm St Mary’s Church, PottonAdults £8, Under 18s £6

The Locrian Chamber Choir, conducted by Justin Thomas, is celebrating their 20th Anniversary year with

a Celebration Concert. The programme will include highlights from the 20 years of concerts with music

across the centuries, including Vivaldi, Rutter, Vaughan Williams and Finzi. The choir will be joined by some

past members to conclude the concert singing a chorus from Handel’s Messiah. Tickets available from choir

members or Juliet 01767 226123.

14-28 JulyScarecrow Olympics

MoggerhangerMoggerhanger will be hosting a Scarecrow Olympics

throughout the village to celebrate the Olympic Games coming to Great Britain. A launch BBQ is to be held in the village on 14 July 11am-2.30pm where a guide

booklet will also be available to purchase for a small fee. The book will include puzzles and allow spectators

to vote on their favourite scarecrow.

17 JulyTrip on The Southern Comfort Paddle Streamer

Dunton, Sutton & Eyeworth Over 60’s Club enjoy coach trips out and about during the summer months. Our next trip is on The Southern Comfort Paddle Steamer from Horning, Norfolk. Contact Jackie 01767 317025.

18 JulySandy & District Horticultural Association 6.30pm

Visit has been arranged to Chessum Roses at Ickwell with a barbecue afterwards.

To book a place contact David Osborn on 01767 681733 or email [email protected]

20 & 21 JulyLa Bohème

7.30pm Moggerhanger Park, Moggerhanger20 July Opera Bravo presents La Bohème on the lawns

of Moggerhanger Park.21 July La Bohème Candle lit Gala. 10% discount for Friends of Moggerhanger Park. Tel: 01767 641 007Obtain your tickets from www.operabrava.co.uk

21 JulyCake & Produce Stall

10am-12 noon 9 Sandy Road, EvertonCome along and join us for a cup of tea or coffee and

browse our stalls. Funds for St Mary’s Church Everton

26 JulyFashion Show by M & Co

7.00pm All Saints Church, Great Barford Tickets £6Refreshments, Raffle and side stalls.

Tickets: Janet 01234 870743, Sue 01234 871685 or M & Co, St Neots

26 JulyChapel Street & Horslow Street

8.00pm Community Centre, PottonPotton History Society will present a street evening travelling from Moons Corner to the Rising Sun and

look at the changes over the last 200 years. For more information on the Society please see their

website www.pottonhistorysociety.com.

29 July-4 AugustCople Music Festival

29 July - Concert and Afternoon Tea from 2pm. 1 August - Music Quiz, Five Bells from 6pm.

3 August - Music in Five Bells from 8pm4 August – Cople Proms in the Village Hall and Playing Fields from 3.30pm. Bands, Hog Roast, BQ, Bars and

raffle. Bring chairs, blankets and flags. Adults £2, under 16s free. Proceeds to the British Heart Foundation.

Tel: 01234 8386597 Email: [email protected]: www.cople.org.uk/events.asp

WHAT’S On?IN JuLY


Electrical MaintenanceCommercial & Domestic Installations

Rewires Fuse Board Upgrades Electric Heating Systems Underfloor Heating BT Points Periodic Testing Portable Appliance Testing Showers

Free Estimates ELECSA Part P Approved

Paul HodsonElectrical Contractor

All work carried out to IEE wiring regulations 17th edition

Call to discuss your requirementsTel: 01767 691668

Mob: 07887 [email protected]

Now Installing V Phase

Units

DRIFTWOOD JOINERY LTDSpecialists in Bespoke Joinery

Conservatories • Doors • WindowsStaircases

Handmade KitchensHandmade Bedroom Furniture

Unit 8, Gracious Farm, Southill, Beds SG18 9JBT: 01462 816695 F: 01462 850915

E: [email protected]

G & H SEAMERFuneral Directors

Family owned and managed business.Established 100 years.

24hr ServicePre-paid FuneralPlan Available

Private Rest Chapel

47 High Street, Sandy

Telephone: 01767 680519www.ghseamer.co.uk


TV AERIAL &SATELLITE SPECIALIST

See our website for acomprehensive list of our services

www.allbandaerials.co.uk

CALL FREE0800 7317988

To discuss your requirements or to make an appointment

ALLBAND AERIALS22 Bedford Road

Lower Stondon, Beds SG16 6EA


How to play It’s simple! 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 puzzle.

Watch out! Sudoku

is highly addictive.

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

9 X 9 PuZZLE

COD

EWO

RD

80 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts


Artexing, Coving, Paper HangingQuality Painting and Decorating

Insurance work undertakenNo obligation free quotation

Friendly reliable service

Contact info:Tel: 01767 601351 Mob: 07970060891

E-mail: [email protected]

Painting and Decorating by

Fine Textures

PK Cleaning ServicesEst. since 1988

Professional Carpet andUpholstery cleaningWindow cleaningUPVC Fascia cleaningPatio and Driveway cleaningGutter and Soffit cleaning

Free Estimates.Friendly and reliable service.

Paul KaiserHome 01767 222822Mobile 07812 335860

Visit us onwww.pkcleaningservices.net


Mark Dilley Electrical

Part P Registered Company

22386Extra sockets - LightingExtensions - Re-wires

Security Lighting - ShowersInspections

No job too smallFree estimates

All work to BS7671 regulationsCity and Guilds qualified

Tel: 01767 261008Mob: 07990 895430

[email protected]

Oven Cleaning! - It’s a dirty job! Why do it yourself?

parent company est. 1998

Contact James on: 01767 260188or Mobile: 07812 666081

email: [email protected] can also book at www.ovenmen.com

We clean ovens using non-caustic, non-toxic products in your home.

Ovens • Ranges • Hobs • ExtractorsAgas • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept)

Single Oven (all racks/pans inc) .......................£35 Single Oven & Grill Oven (all racks/pans inc) ....£45 Single Separate Grill Oven (racks/pans inc) .....£15 Microwaves & Combination Ovens ...................£20 Extractor Fan (free filter for next clean) ............£12 Hob .................................................................£12 Agas and Ranges priced accordingly Oven Bulbs replaced for free in all jobs V.A.T free


Reg no. 193542

P.E. JAMES & SONSDOMESTIC PLUMBING, HEATING & GAS

Small Repairs to Major Installations Showers, Pumps and Wet RoomsBathrooms and Ceramic Tiling

Heating Problems & InstallationsNew BoilersSolar Hot water

25 YEARS IN THE TRADE CITY & GUILDS CERTIFIEDCOVERING HERTS, BEDS, BUCKS & CAMBS

CALL MR. JAMES NOW FOR A QUOTE 01767 317356 or 07816 586777 NO VAT!

CULLIFORD EXTERIORMAINTENANCE

The complete garden maintenance service from:• Clearing • Weeding • Pruning • Lopping

• Hedge Cutting • Tree Removal• Gutter Clearing • Conservatory Cleaning

• Fence Painting • Fence Panel Repair/Replacement• Re-turfing • Lawn Care • Grass Cutting

We offer a 3 step service:1. Reliability - I do what I say

2. Service - Same day where possible3. Price - We estimate with no hidden cost

Special Seasonal Offer:Patio Jet Washing & Re-pointing

Block Paving Jet Washing & Sealing

For a prompt, reliable and personal service call:

01767 640799 or 07975 658265

• All types of Building & Maintenancework undertaken

• Garage & Loft Conversions• All aspects of Carpentry• Bathroom & Kitchen Installations• Roofing (flat and pitched)• Landscaping & Brickwork• Alterations & RefurbishmentCustomer’s recommendations available on request

For a free quote call Richard on:H. 01767 681704M. 07941 855415

E. [email protected]

Domestic & CommercialBuilding & Maintenance Service

Building & Maintenance


Converting your loft can be the ideal way to gain extra space without the expense and hassle of moving house. Dark, pokey and inaccessible lofts can often be, literally, a waste of space, useful for a bit of dusty, long-term storage and nothing else. Turn that space into one or two useful rooms and – ta da! – not only might you have added real value to your property, but you’ve got extra living space that could make all the difference to happy family life. The simplest loft conversion might just involve strengthening and boarding out the floor, adding a light and sticking in a pull-down loft ladder – giving you a good-sized storage area that’s accessible on a regular basis, at a cost of probably only a couple of thousand pounds. Bear in mind, however, that Building Regulations may apply to even a simple conversion – see more at www.planningportal.gov.uk. Such a basic project may be a good idea in practical, everyday terms, but if it’s added value you’re after, you’ll have to be more ambitious, say the experts, and put in at least one ‘real’ room. ‘It’s a false economy to cut corners,’ says Jeremy Leaf, RICS housing spokesperson (www.rics.org). ‘To maximise your return the conversion has to be designed properly from the very beginning. You should have a proper lobby area when you come up the stairs, there should be sufficient head clearance, it should be properly insulated, you should have a dormer window rather than a Velux. It’s also important to think about how a loft conversion affects the house as a whole, as they can make them top heavy, with too many bedrooms and, in comparison, too few reception rooms. Check out other properties nearby which have been similarly extended to see what has been done and what they’re worth.’ When doing your research, it’s always a good idea to ask a local estate agent for advice, and you could also go to a website such as www.nethouseprices.com to find out how much properties in your area have sold for recently. A word about space planning. If you have room, adding a bathroom to a loft conversion makes sense both practically and financially, and shouldn’t cost any more than adding a new bathroom anywhere else in the house – in other words, anything from around £3,000 for a plain

LOFTY IDEALSBY KATHERINE SORELL

fit-out. Costs will be minimised if you place the bathroom above one on the floor below, keeping plumbing work simple, but Hugo Tugman of Architect Your Home (www.architect-yourhome.com) points out that you should always keep your options open. ‘It’s folly to put the bathroom in the wrong place, just because that’s where the drains are,’ he says. ‘The same goes for staircases – most people think that there’s just one place where a staircase can be fitted in a loft conversion, because Building Regulations require two metres of head room above it, but you can end up squashing your accommodation just because the best bit of loft is taken up with a staircase. It’s really worth considering the possible alternatives when doing your planning.’ And finally, if overall head height is an issue in your potential loft conversion, don’t try to get away with cramped, uncomfortable rooms. Hugo points out that lowering the ceilings of the rooms below is often a possibility, and can make all the difference to the success of a project. ‘It sounds like it would be a massive expense,’ he says, ‘but in fact the additional costs are really only plastering and decorating the rooms below, and it would probably add no more than about three or four thousand onto a simple job.’The HSBC’s annual home improvement survey found, in March this year, that a loft conversion is still the improvement that adds the most value, boosting the price of a property by, on average, £16,152. But according to specialists Econoloft, a typical conversion by building professionals costs between £20,000 and £30,000. The answer may lie, therefore, in keeping costs down by doing as much work as possible yourself – but only if you can do it to a good standard. Valuation expert Paul Cutbill, of Countrywide Surveying Services, said: ‘Whilst sensibly improved and well presented homes will generally be attractive to potential purchasers, rising labour and material costs mean that the gap between the cost of improving and monies realised at the point of any sale has been reduced. Poor quality refitting and lack of proper design considerations, often as a result of inadequate project budgeting and planning, can also have a significant knock-on effect to any added value which might be gained when selling a property.’


Across1 Closed forcefully (7)5 Keen (5)8 Ceremonies (5)9 Brutal (7)10 At right angles (13)11 Violin (6)12 Beverage (6)15 Exhibition (13)18 Return to original state (7)19 Affected by alcohol (5)20 Registers (5)21 Found on the shoreline (7)

Down1 Strip of leather (5)2 Changed (7)3 Assorted items (13)4 Split up (6)5 Book of information (13)6 Low animal noise (5)7 Hold back (7)11 Of a league or alliance (7)13 Lack of success (7)14 Speaks (6)16 Poles supporting sails (5)17 Nude (5)

86 Please mention The Villager and Town Life when responding to adverts

sponsors of

THE VILLAGER PRIZE CROSSWORD

Name:

Address:

Tel:

2nd Prize£15

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below

before 20th July 2012 Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP

1st Prize£25

Last Month’s Crossword Winners

Congratulations to:1st - Mr. P. White from Clifton

2nd - Mrs. C. Traynor from Spaldwick

The VillagerPrize Crossword


KEMP GARAGEDOORS

SALES • INSTALLATION • REPAIRS•FamilyRunBusiness

•25YearsExperience

•UpandOver

•SectionalandRoller

Doors

•SecurityShutters

•RemoteControlDoor

•AllMajorBrands

SuppliedandServiced

•CallforaFree

Quotation

•OAPRatesAvailable

www.kempgaragedoors.co.uk

SANDY • POTTONBIGGLESWADE AND SURROUNDING AREAS

01767 260165

01480 210410Sandy

Eaton Socon


T&R Roofing Ltd

Family Business Est. 1985• FeltRoofingSpecialists (10year&15yearguaranteeon

highperformancefelts)• Tiling,Slating,Guttering• UPVCFacia/Soffits• Chimney Work

AllNEWworkguaranteedFullyinsuredforemployer&

PublicLiability

CallTonySimpsonforaFREEestimate on:

01767 314847mob. 07831849847

DFC Electrical ServicesELECTRICIAN

Established local electrical contractors.

All electrical work undertaken from complete installations to

single sockets including landlord inspections.

For further details visit ourwebsite at

www.dfcelectrical.co.uk or call Dave Cooke

for a free no obligation quote on

07818 442 900 01767 682 601

We look forward to hearing from you


SurecleanDOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

•Spotstainandodourremoval •Anti-stainprotection •Theverylatestequipmentused •Allworkguaranteed •Fullyinsured •Establishedfor22years •Leathersuitescleanedand reconditioned

01767 652971 or 07870 338074


J. JenkinsBuilding Services

ExtensionsNew Build

RenovationsGarage Conversions

Loft ConversionsKitchen Fitting

Driveways and Patios

For all your building needs

Call John on

01767 222219 or 07831 283296


References available on request

LOFT INSULATIONIf you are a home owner or rent privately you

could be entitled to FREE Loft and Cavity Wall Insulation

FREE

35%ENERGY LOSS THROUGH WALLS

25%ENERGY LOSS

THROUGH ROOF

15%ENERGY LOSS

THROUGH DRAUGHTS

*

* This offer is for a limited period only so call us now and SAVE MONEY

CALL NOW And quote reference NE12 01767 681849

Comet Cleaning ServicesCommercial & Residential Cleaners

• Commercial and Domestic Cleaners

• Builders/Landlord Cleans

• Experienced and Personal Service

• Regular, Weekly/Spring Clean

• Fully Insured/Ref's Available

• No up front fee's/contracts

Tel: 01767 631402 Mob: 07762 462866


www.cometcleaningservices.co.uk


Plumbing and Heating Engineer Ltd

• Mechanical Services

• Oil, Gas & Solid Fuel

• Central Heating

• General Plumbing

• Leadwork Specialists

T. 01462 731896/733364F: 01462 835588

E: [email protected] Old Stables

Station Road, Arlesey Beds SG15 6RG

Members of

Membership No.3003012002 17173


Tel: 01767 261622 Mob: 07947 732883Email: [email protected]

Going on holiday is something we look forward to, a break from the rat race for a week or two. Of course the last thing you want to do while you’re away is worry about whether your home is safe, so here are some simple tips on security which will help to ensure that everything is how you left it on your return.If you have milk or newspaper deliveries, make sure they are suspended while you are away. Ensure your valuables and jewellery are locked away out of sight, or place them in a safety deposit box with your bank. You can buy timers that will switch your lights and radio on and off at pre-determined times, giving the impression that someone is in the house. Ask a good friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your house. Never leave your keys under a mat or flowerpot. If your house has a driveway where you normally park, ask a friend or neighbour to park their vehicle there occasionally. Turn the ringer volume down on your telephone so no-one

ARE YOu SECuRE?BY RITA WILLIAMS-HALL

can hear in passing that your phone isn’t being answered.Probably most important thing to do is make sure you’ve locked up properly! Check all your window locks, and make sure all doors are fully locked too. Enjoy your holiday!


By appointment only - 4 Stratford Road, Sandy, Beds

Tel: 07711 257105or

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Tel01767650750

Mob07802393331

Bill Tangye

WashingMachines•CookersFridges•Vacs•Dryers

Domestic Repairs

C l a s s i f i e d s

ChesterfieldFancy Dress Hire

By appointment only - 4 Stratford Road, Sandy, Beds

Tel: 07711 257105

100’s of costumes for all occasionsAdults from £15 • Childrens from £7.50

Wigs and accessoriesRange includes 60’s, 70’s, Superheroes, Medieval, Halloween, and many more ....

Fancy Dress

JB DomesticGuaranteed Repairs To:

Washing MachinesTumble Dryers

Electric Ovens/CookersDishwashers

No Call Out Charge!

Tel: 01767 680621Mobile: 07778 891490

Domestic Repairs

For all your oven cleaning needs, using a Non-toxic,

Non-caustic cleaning solution

Prices s/oven (all inc.)...£36.00 d/oven (all inc.)...£48.00 extractors from...£12.00 microwaves.....£16.00 hobs from....£12.00

BBQs, Agas and Ranges individually priced.

We cover Beds - Herts - South Cambs

Contact us nowTel: 01767 681 667 Mob: 07817 011 957email: [email protected]

www.ovenmaestro.co.uk

Builders

• Extensions&Sunrooms• Garage&LoftConversions• Walls,Patios&Decking• GeneralBuildingWork• PropertyMaintenance

“YOUNG’S BUILDERS”“YOUR LOCAL PROFESSIONAL MASTER BUILDERS”“QUALITY AND VALUE FROM START TO FINISH”

Garage conversions from £5.9K Extension - Sunrooms

Call07811985568or01767261803www.youngsbuilders.co.uk

“Free quotes • Excellent references”

[email protected] reliable & insured

d. chandlerelectrical servicesniceic part p registereddomestic & commercial

23 the lawnseverton, sandy, beds07966 296304 or 01767 680929

Electricians

Advertising in The Villager is easy.to find out more call nigel on

01767 261122 or email [email protected]

Business gone a bit slow?

Let us help!



Painting Services

Kitchen and Bathroom Fitter

Disabled showers supplied and fitted.General plumbing and home maintenance.No job too small.

57 Green Acres, Gamlingay, Beds. SG19 3LR

Tel: 01767 650619Mobile: 07870366414

M. Philmore (Phil) - Kitchen and Bathroom Fitter

Handyman

Garden Specialist

Local, honest, professional service

Motoring

Plastering Services

Steve SwainPlastering Contractor

All aspectsPlastering, Pebble Dashing

Rendering, Screeding

Mob: 07887 861881Tel: 01767 226404

Plant and Landscaping

MELDRETH Landscapeswww.meldrethlandscapes.co.uk Tel: 01763 261463

MELDRETH Plant Hire

Tel: 01763 262738www.meldrethplant.co.uk

Kneesworth Road, Meldreth, Royston, Herts

Leisure LawnsFor the perfect garden

Garden Clearance, Hedgecutting, Mowing, Fencing, Patios, Tree Work and Turfing

All aspects of landscapingAlso supply and fit artificial grass

for a no maintenance lawnCall David Scudds on

01767 681550 or 07581 170352Email: [email protected]

www.leisurelawns.co.uk

Garden Specialist



Private Car Hire

Gary HareCarpentry • Kitchens • Bedrooms

Decorating • FlooringBathrooms •Tiling • and more...

Tel: 01767 651821Mob: 07773 973420

Property Improvements by

Aprofessional

property maintenance

service

Property Improvements

Tiling



GB GARY BERRIDGEPlasterer & General Maintenance

Including UPVC Doors and WindowsTiling, Painting and Decorating

Free Quotes

T: 01767 316485 M: 07582 485155E: [email protected]

Plumbing and Heating Engineers Ltd• Mechanical Services • Oil, Gas & Solid Fuel

• Central Heating • General Plumbing• Leadwork Specialists

Members of

Membership No.3003012002 17173

T. 01462 731896/733364 F: 01462 83558 E: [email protected]

The Old Stables, Station Road, Arlesey, Beds SG15 6RG

Plumbing


Home ImprovementsThe Complete ServiceInternal and External

Kitchens, Bathrooms, Tiling etc.Free Quotations

Roy Waddams - Tel:07818 685350

Storage

Domestic and Commercial Storage (Near Potton)

Caravans and Cars WelcomeShort and long term rates

Secure site, cctv with full gated access 7 days a week.

Please call 01767 260248 or 07970 292055 ST

ORA

GE

Friends Five Star Hairdressing 4 Shannon Court, Sandy, Bedfordshire Sg19 1ag Large car park at rear of salon. Tel. 01767 682 789

Opening Hours: Mon, Tues & Fri 9.30 - 6.00pm, Wed & Thurs 9.30 - 9.00pm, Sat 8.30 - 4.00pm www.friendsfivestarhairdressing.com facebook.com/friendshair

01767 682789

Friends five star hairdressing based in Sandy inside Shannon court offers :• Highly qualified stylists

• Constant training and courses attended by all levels of stylists• Award winning Redken & L’oreal products

• Fantastic new colour range containing no ammonia• 3 level price tier system • Open 2 late evenings until 9pm

• Relaxing atmosphere and free car park at rear of salon• Complimentary refreshments and the latest magazines to read

• Monthly offers • Loyalty system for all clients

Special OfferBuy 2 Redken products and receive another absolutely FREE of charge (cheapest product free). This is a great way to try new products in the

Redken range or to stock up on your favourites. This offer is valid over shampoos, conditioners, treatments and styling

range. Limited numbers only - don’t miss out!

NEW

opening hours

Saturdays hours

have been extended to 4pm

Potton Villager July 12

Documents

Transcript of Potton Villager July 12