Stevenage July 2022 by Villager Mag

VILLAGER The

and Town

July 2022

Life

LOCAL NEWS • LOCAL PEOPLE • LOCAL SERVICES • LOCAL CHARITIES • LOCAL PRODUCTS

Inside this issue

Naturalistic Planting Summer Sun Hats Win £25 in our Prize Crossword Bringing Local Business to Local People Every Month in the Stevenage Area

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Inside this issue... Madeira The Pearl of the Atlantic

Naturalistic Planting......................................................35 Green Fingers.................................................................36 Looking for their new Forever Homes.............................40 How can I cut down costs when driving?........................42 Have Tech, Will travel.....................................................46 Puzzle Page....................................................................48 What’s On in July............................................................50 Your Home’s Drainage System........................................53 Fancy a Kickabout?.........................................................54 Villager Prize Crossword.................................................58 Book Review..................................................................61 Useful Numbers.............................................................63

Madeira: The Pearl of the Atlantic....................................4 Brewing Today: Titanic Brewery.......................................8 Staying Safe in the Sun..................................................12 Would you benefit from counselling?.............................15 Shuttleworth Events......................................................16 Stay Cool this Summer...................................................19 Summer Sun Hats..........................................................23 Take a Dip Outdoors.......................................................24 How to Deal with Conflict...............................................26 What is Comic-Con?.......................................................29 The Savvy Investor.........................................................30 The Art of ‘Barkitecture’..................................................32

How can I cut down costs when driving?

Get your business off to a flying start this year

Advertise with the Villager Magazine... prices start from just £30.00 +VAT per month Editorial: Solange Hando, Kate Duggan, Trevor Langley, Tom Hancock, Jennie Billings, Gemma Brown, Sarah Davey, Tracey Anderson, Caroline Knight, Alan Titchmarsh, and RSPCA

Advertising Sales/Local Editorial Nigel Frost • Tel 01767 261122 nigel@villagermag.com Photography - hannamariah Design and Artwork Design 9 • Tel 07762 969460

Publishers Villager Publications Ltd 24 Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 261122 Email: nigel@villagermag.com www.villagermag.com

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Travel

Madeira: the pearl of the Atlantic

By Solange Hando Blessed with year-round sunshine, lush botanical gardens and world-famous levadas, Madeira is so much more than a sun, sea and sand destination – although it certainly has its fair share of beaches too. Geologically dramatic and bursting with colour, this tiny subtropical archipelago is a hit with holidaymakers from all over. Set off the west coast of Africa, Madeira is made up of four Portuguese islands, but the largest – Madeira Island – is the one the world knows and loves. This is a place where you can hike amidst lush greenery and rugged mountains in the morning, and sunbathe on black-sand beaches in the afternoon. Diverse, safe and packed with culture and history, Madeira truly has something for everyone. In case you needed any more persuasion, here are just some of the reasons to put Madeira on your travel wish list, and what not to miss while you’re there.

It’s a hiker’s paradise Hiking Madeira’s levadas is one of the island’s top activities, with thousands of people lacing up their hiking boots to discover Madeira’s secret interior each year. These irrigation canals were built to bring water from the north slopes to the south side of the island. Although still in use, they now have another purpose, providing a route for hikers to explore the island’s most dramatic landscapes. With more than 2,000km to explore at heights reaching 1,861m, there are walking trails to suit every experience level. Some of the easier routes can be found in the south of the island, while the trails that require a higher skill level are in the north. Whichever you choose, you can expect spectacular scenery and a truly immersive experience. If you’re up for a challenge, why not take on Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo?

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Sample city life in Funchal Set against a backdrop of beautiful hills, Funchal has to be one of Europe’s prettiest capital cities. The perfect balance between laid-back and bustling, it’s known for its fascinating museums, botanical gardens, lively shopping scene and charming street cafes. The old streets, twentieth-century boulevards and pretty squares of West Funchal are home to some of Madeira’s finest shops and museums. East Funchal is dominated by the old town, Zona Velha, which has now been transformed into a trendy quarter with modern bars, galleries, shops and restaurants. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss a visit to Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal’s vibrant fruit, vegetable, fish and flower market. A trip to Maderia’s capital also wouldn’t be complete without exploring one of the city’s sensational botanical gardens. Madeira Botanical Garden is the biggest, with the most varied collection of flora from around the world. Visit a black volcanic beach Madeira’s volcanic origin has not only gifted the island with rich and exuberant gardens, but some fantastic black beaches too. The black sand comes from eroded volcanic materials such as lava and basalt rocks, which explains why it’s typically found on beaches near volcanic activity. One of the finest is Praia do Porto do Seixal, a stunning stretch of black sand in the north of the

island with an incredible mountainous backdrop. Since the beach faces east, it’s also considered one of the best spots for watching the sunrise in Madeira. Admire dramatic ridges and waterfalls as you swim before drying off in the morning sun. Unlike many of the beaches on Madeira Island, the sand is soft too! Take a boat trip Did you know: Madeira is one of the best places for dolphin and whale watching in Europe? A boat tour here will give you the chance to witness a staggering variety, some of which are extremely rare anywhere else on the planet. These include sperm whales, humpback whales, oceanic dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and more. Although various species can be sighted all year round, your best chance is between April and October. You could also take the two-and-a-half hour boat trip to Porto Santo, the archipelago’s second largest island. Often called the ‘Golden island’ after its gorgeous 9km-long beach, Porto Santo is the perfect destination for a spot of sunbathing and swimming. The island is also one of the best places in Europe to practice diving and snorkelling. Head to the translucent waters of Zimbralinhos beach for a chance of seeing octopus, cuttlefish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs and more.

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Food & Drink

Brewing Today: Titanic Brewery

Multi award-winning Titanic Brewery was established during 1985 in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. Their first beer brewed was named Titanic Premium. This beer is continued today, with the name changed to ANCHOR (4.1% vol) and is very popular with many beer drinkers. The complete range of beers, from the Titanic Brewery, are all distinctive in their own right, having ‘devotees’ for a good number of the productions. Their ‘Beer of the Month’ has numerous followers and can include selected pale, traditional ruby, plum porter and others, which are carefully chosen, each month. I found something for all tastes, amongst Titanic’s beers. PUB IN A BOX is extremely popular. Whilst being a splendid treat to enjoy at home, it is an obvious great gift idea, too. The box contains various bottled and canned beers, a Titanic Brewery pint glass, plus snacks and beer mats. A personalised gift card, with a message of your choice, can be included for a small charge. Different boxes – if a preference is required – can be for a Titanic Dark Ales Box, Titanic Light Ales Box, Mixed Can Cases and others. STEERAGE (3.8% vol) pale ale has a good floral and hoppy aroma with a dry, refreshing mouthfeel and palate experience. ICEBERG (4.1% vol) is an American Pale Ale that was one of the first UK beers to use US hop varieties – citrusy and zesty. CAPPUCCINO STOUT (4.5% vol) has a good aroma of coffee, which follows through to the flavour of this stout, admirably. CHOCOLATE & VANILLA STOUT (4.5% vol) has chocolate and vanilla scents, leading enticingly, to the smooth, creamy taste. WHITE STAR (4.5% vol) I found to be golden and crisp, with an excellent aroma, evoking thoughts of honey and hops. An excellent fruity, malty ale. RASPBERRY PALE (4.7% vol) has raspberries on the nose, then a light, fresh mouthfeel and palate sensation. PLUM PORTER (4.9% vol) is a deep-red, with plum flavours in abundance – splendid! CAPTAIN SMITHS (5.2% vol) is traditional, malty and strong – a firm favourite. The website has all information, including details about the range of beers, plus pubs, shop, tours, events, loyalty programme and more. Titanic Brewery, Callender Place, Lingard Street, Burslem, Stoke–on–Trent, Staffordshire ST6 1JL. Tel: +44 (0) 1782 823447 E-mail: titanic@titanicbrewery.co.uk www.titanicbrewery.co.uk

As always, Enjoy!

ey Trevor Langl

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Beauty

Staying safe in the sun Whether you’re holidaying in the Canaries or Cornwall, sunscreen is essential. Here’s what to consider before you buy. Check the SPF The higher the sun protection factor (SPF), the less chance you’ll get burnt. The NHS recommends using at least SPF30 in the UK. However, if you’re going abroad or buying sunscreen for young children, you might want to opt for SPF45 or SPF50. Remember, getting burnt just once every two years can triple your risk of melanoma skin cancer. The SPF rating relates to UVB rays. You also need to protect yourself from UVA rays, so look for a sunscreen with at least 4-star UVA protection. Natural tanning Sunscreens either use chemical or mineral sun blockers. There are pros and cons to both. Several of the chemicals used in sunscreens have been found to enter the bloodstream at worrying levels. (In particular, you might want to avoid octocrylene. ) Mineral sunscreens (e.g. ones made with zinc oxide) are less likely to enter your bloodstream but can be more difficult to rub in. Protect the planet Chemicals such as oxybenzone can have devastating effects on coral reefs and other aquatic life, so some holiday destinations have banned sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. You don’t even need to swim in the sea for your sunscreen to have an impact, as it can enter the water system when you have a shower. So, look for a ‘reef-safe’ sunscreen. Good options include those by Green People, Alba Botanica and Badger. Face the day Moisturisers and foundations often contain SPF, but it’s unlikely you’ll apply enough to give you the full protection. Instead, look for a facial sunscreen. Some even have added skincare ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Fake it ‘til you make it Tempted to skip the sun cream because you want a tan? Some sunscreens contain a tan activator, so you really don’t need to take the risk. If you want a natural-looking tan before your holiday, why not book in for a spray tan? The days of streaky orange tans are long gone. Decent fake tans are now almost impossible to tell from the real thing.

By Kate Duggan

Don’t be stingy Apply your sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun, and then reapply every two hours. You’ll need to reapply it after swimming, even if the sunscreen is water-resistant. Be generous. You’ll need two to three tablespoons’ worth to give you the advertised SPF. If sunscreen irritates your skin or makes you itch, switch to a fragrance-free one designed for sensitive skin. Take care Sunscreens don’t provide 100% protection from skin damage or prevent heat stroke. So, try to keep in the shade if the temperature soars. Cover up if you do need to go out (e.g. with a hat, sunglasses and a loose-fitting long-sleeved top). And drink plenty of water so you don’t get dehydrated. For more sun safety info, visit www.nhs.uk/livewell/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety

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Health

Would you benefit from counselling? (Hint: The short answer is yes. Pretty much everyone can benefit from counselling. Here’s why..,)

What can counselling help with? You might seek counselling to cope with a recent or historic traumatic event, such as: • Bereavement • Abuse • Divorce • Diagnosis of a significant health condition Other people use counselling to overcome or manage a specific challenge or mental health issue, such as: • An eating disorder • Phobias • Anxiety • Depression • Lack of confidence • A pattern of unhealthy relationships Couples and families can also go for counselling together to help resolve underlying tensions and improve relationships. However, you don’t need a specific reason to go for counselling, as psychotherapist Jamie Styler explains: “Having a safe, confidential environment to explore your inner self with someone who is trained to guide and listen can create the space to develop a better understanding of oneself. This in turn can contribute to a more peaceful and fulfilling life. I stand by the belief that everyone can gain positive benefits from counselling.” What happens in a counselling session? Counsellors differ in their approaches and techniques. Most will ask questions to help you explore any underlying issues that may be causing difficulties. You’ll be able to talk about how you feel and about anything that’s bothering you, in a

safe, confidential, non-judgemental environment. Generally, a counsellor won’t tell you what you should do, and will instead aim to guide you towards making your own decisions. Along with counselling, there are also other types of talking therapies. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), for example, can help you to change how you think about situations and break unhealthy patterns. How do I find a counsellor? In most cases, your first port of call should be your GP, who can talk to you about the different types of talking therapies available and recommend which one might be best for you. They can then make a referral if they feel you’ll benefit from therapy. Alternatively, you can self-refer. Find out more at www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services. There is often a long waiting list for counselling on the NHS. If you decide to go private, you’ll want to choose a counsellor who’s registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. There’s a directory of registered counsellors at www. bacp.co.uk. In some cases, you may need a therapist who specialises in a specific area, such as eating disorders or PTSD. You’ll also have to decide whether you’d prefer to speak to a counsellor online, over the phone or face-to-face. How much does counselling cost? Fees vary greatly, depending on the counsellor’s qualifications and expertise. Some counsellors offer a discounted rate for people who are on a low income. It’s also worth checking whether you can get counselling paid for through your health insurance, employee wellbeing programme or the NHS.

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Local News

Shuttleworth Events Photography: Darren Harbar Photography

Family Air Show Shuttleworth Family Air Show on Sunday 7 August will be a highly entertaining event, with a memorable line-up of aerial displays and lots happening on the ground to make it a fun family day out. Take your family by the hand and step back in time as you visit the Vintage Fairground – complete with a Merry-Go-Round and Helter Skelter! Inside the Collection hangars, you’ll also find a cornucopia of activities to keep the kids (or even the big kids!) happy, whether it’s pedal planes or an Airfix Make and Paint courtesy of IPMS Brampton – with other educational Discovery Zones dotted around the site, including a large play area. As you continue to explore the site, it will be almost impossible for you to resist a little dance as you listen to the upbeat songs from the beautiful Barn-Ettes. Outdoors, you’ll be able to experience the sensation of riding on-board a 1920s bus – whether it’s the sole surviving Charabus or our Wellingborough doubledecker. The buses will take you up to the grand Shuttleworth House, which will be open to tour. Visit the beautiful Swiss Garden and see if you can find Shuttleworth’s resident peacocks – Snowy and Storm. If you spot them, be sure to take a photo! In the afternoon, the flying display starts – an aerial ballet in the Bedfordshire skies, consisting of Shuttleworth aircraft and awe-inspiring visitors. If the weather is suitably calm, the Edwardian aircraft – including the world’s oldest flying aeroplane, the 1909 Bleriot XI – may even be able to take to the skies, capping off what will be a truly memorable day. For more information, please visit: shuttleworth.org/familyairshow

Flying Proms Shuttleworth Flying Proms combines classical music with a delightful evening flying programme. The perfect event to sit out on the paddocks, relaxing with a picnic and a glass of something fizzy. Gates open at 2pm, giving you plenty of time to find a good spot and settle in. The concert and flying display start at 7pm, so before the music starts do take the opportunity to explore! The grand Shuttleworth House will be open to tour. You’ll be able to see first-hand the ornate gold-leafed ceilings and panelled walls, the rare Erard grand piano, and hear the stories of the Shuttleworth family who once lived there. Shuttleworth House is also accessible through the Shrubbery Walk at the end of which is the Swiss Garden, 9 acres of heritage landscape designed in the popular alpine style almost 200 years ago, with framed views, ponds and several charming miniature structures. It is a rare example of a Regency garden and boasts thirteen listed features. The Collection’s hangar doors will be thrown open for you to wander around, taking in the sights and smells of vintage aeroplanes, whilst learning about some of the roles they played in their service and racing lives and other stories they can tell. To add to the excitement, there will be vintage aircraft performing illuminated aerial displays above you, and a thrilling firework display to round off the evening - the day is set to be an unmissable event. For more information, please visit: shuttleworth.org/flyingproms

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104 Ampthill Road, Shefford, Beds SG17 5BB 18

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Stay Cool this Summer UK houses don’t have air con as a rule. So how do we stay cool when the temperature rises? Think inside out - Drink and eat cold things! Iced water, tea and squash will keep you hydrated and cool. Try chilled watermelon, grapes, and sorbets. Make healthy lollies from diluted cordial with slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber. Poor man’s air con - Fans don’t cool air; they move it around. So put a bowl of iced water in front of your fan. This will cool the air blowing over the bowl and make the room feel cooler. If you have a ceiling fan make it spin anti-clockwise to create a cooling effect. The opposite is true in the winter. Refrigerate your pillowcase - I am not joking. Pop your clean cotton pillowcases into the fridge and put them on your pillow just before bed. It feels great against your skin. You can also keep clean damp flannels or linen tea towels in the fridge and use them to cool your face and the back of your neck. Be smart with windows - There is a reason many houses abroad have heavy shutters. They shade a home’s windows to prevent heat from getting in in the first place, keeping the house cool during the

Special Report By Tom Hancock

day.UK houses don’t generally have shutters, but a white-backed blind or thick curtains will definitely help. At night if you sleep on the first floor or above and it’s possible and safe to do so, open windows on opposite sides of the house to create a through draft. Avoid using heat indoors - Eat cold food, or grill outdoors. If you have to cook indoors, try a slow cooker or Microwave which generate much less external heat. Avoid using the tumble dryer by hanging clothes outside. Stay cool guys.

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House of Colour

Summer Sun Hats What to pick

While we may have highly variable weather in this country a good summer hat is still an essential. We do need to protect our skin in the sunshine. You may have noticed some hats as having a UPF, Ultraviolet Protection Factor. This is designed to give a rating as to how much combined UVA and UVB rays the fabric protects the wearer from. As an example a UPF 50 protects the wearer from 98% of the rays. Look out for ratings on new hats. As ever there are lots of styles to choose from but there are a few trends to look out for. Bucket hat – this one goes back to the nineties trends we’re seeing this season. Not just for Liam Gallagher this one is right up to date with different fabrics including crochet, straw and fabulous prints. As a smaller brimmed option and with some fab prints and colours this is very much a fun option – if you need smaller scale and a quirky look this is a great option for you. Have a play with whether you turn it up loosely at the front too. They fold up much more easily too, so forgiving for holiday packing! Kangol still have a huge range of options. Baseball Caps – some would say they’ve never been away but this season we’re seeing the elevated baseball cap with a more ‘designer’ feel. Bold branding is a key part of this seasons take so be sure that this is really your thing. Wide brimmed straw hats – the traditional Panama is still a mainstay and an absolute classic and good quality ones will always be a great investment (traditionally foldable too, try Pachacuti, or The Panama Hat Co.). If you know it suits you try different coloured options and those with pattern which are appearing. We are seeing more wide brimmed versions in the form a ‘planter’ style, an extended boater style and fedora versions too which are great if you can work a larger scale look. The larger and softer straw options are still a great summer glamorous look and offer great protection. The sweeping brim of this style works really well if you need more movement. The visor – the visor is still very much around this season and can be found in straw options. It’s a cute look for those who need a smaller scale option but do be aware of it’s limited coverage. Etsy is worth a look.

Texture – we’re seeing a lot of texture in hats of all shapes and sizes – and by that I mean an uneven or perhaps thicker style of straw with raw edges or event larger weave in woven fabric. Again dovetailing with what we’re seeing more broadly in trend terms at the moment. These particularly suit those with natural in their clothing personality. A note on colour. Traditional straw shades usually suit a warmer skin tones, so those in the cooler end of the spectrum will need to look at coloured options. As ever the golden rule is to go with something that reflects your clothing personality, and also gives you the right scale. If your look needs larger pieces (accessories, prints, lapels) then a wider brimmed hat is for you. You’ll know if you look swamped and need something smaller in scale (if you’re not clear what level of scale or texture suits you and it can make a huge difference, find your nearest stylist). I’m off to find myself a funky print bucket option! Article by Jennie Billings – House of Colour House of Colour has a network of stylists to help you update your look – find your nearest at houseofcolour.co.uk/find-a-stylist

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Time of Year

Take a Dip Outdoors Outdoor swimming has become popular recently. It is a simple, low-cost activity with minimal gear needs. It can be as easy as downloading a map of the best wild swimming places in the UK and heading off with your swimsuit and a towel. ‘Wild swimming’ refers to swimming in rivers, lakes, pools, the sea in more out-of-the-way locations with no lifeguard supervision, while ‘open water swimming’ refers to swimming in a river or lake within a designated area under the watchful eye of lifeguards. Both types of swimming present an opportunity to exercise, explore the local countryside and visit new places to try different waters. Swimming outdoors is beneficial for our physical health and our mental wellbeing. A study published in British Medical Journal Case Reports suggested that cold water swimming may be effective in the treatment of depression. The theory is that subjecting the body to the physical stress of cold water helps to adapt it to the stress response associated with depression and anxiety. While more evidence is needed for confirmation, so many people have reported the mood-enhancing benefits of open water swimming that specialist groups have been formed where swimmers offer mutual support and share their own experiences. True wild swimming requires no memberships, but there are registered clubs and swimming groups around the UK. The Outdoor Swimming Society’s membership grew by 36% in 2020. You don’t need to be fast or competitive, but you do need to be a competent swimmer.

If you are attending a supervised session, they are often in or near parks open to the public. Changing facilities can be limited so it’s better to arrive ready to swim, although there are readily available ‘modesty robes’ which can be purchased from sports shops. Though there are no laws against being naked in public in England and Wales, venues can set their own rules and most require that you avoid nudity. Supervised sessions often need to be booked in advance and swimmers are checked in and checked out by volunteers. Whether you are wild swimming alone or open water swimming in a group it is advisable to wear a bright swim cap and a tow float. Some supervised venues insist on this in their rules. The floats and cap make you easy to spot if you get into difficulty, and as open water can be deep a tow float is a good floatation device if you get tired and need to stop for a while. Bear in mind that water outside is cold, even in the summer months. You will adapt though, the more regularly you swim in open water. A wetsuit will help, and you can buy neoprene hats, gloves, and socks to protect you. One advantage of supervised sessions is that the water quality is usually tested regularly to ensure maximum safety. They are a great place to start your outdoor swimming journey. Most sessions are run by volunteers who are passionate about open water swimming. They want you to be safe and get the most from your swim, so talk to them…then maybe offer to volunteer yourself. By Gemma Brown

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Special Report

How to Deal with Conflict By Sarah Davey

Its July…as the temperature rises so do tempers. Everyone feels tetchier when it’s hot. So how do you keep your cool while everyone else is boiling over? Some people are more chilled than others. Whether your temper boils over is down to temperament, past experiences, and the specific situation. Some people snap when they feel under pressure, others when they perceive injustice, and others when they feel disrespected. If you understand your own triggers you’re better placed to address them. How do you normally deal with conflict? When the ‘fight’ instinct is triggered we prepare instinctively to take an aggressive position. If our ‘flight’ instinct is the one that’s tweaked in conflict situations then we’ll beat a hasty retreat. Some of us freeze in response to a perceived threat and others instantly appease to avoid conflict. Knowing our tendency helps us map out a route before a conflict situation arises. Understanding yourself makes it easier to recognize when a tense situation is escalating to the point of conflict. Think back to your last argument. Try to recreate in your body how it felt, remembering as many details as you can. Fix that feeling in your

head, so you recognise it as it happens. When you recognise it you can take action. Action might involve removing yourself from a situation before you explode or burst into tears. You can then work on self-calming by going for a brisk walk, screaming into a pillow, or venting your spleen on to paper (don’t give it to the other person though!). Then do something that makes you feel good; play with your cat, watch a comedy show, or listen to your favourite playlist. Once your equilibrium is restored you will then be in a better place to deal with the matter in hand, either by deciding it isn’t worth pursuing, or by means of calm discussion. The more you practice these de-escalation techniques the more skilled you’ll become.

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Special Report

What is Comic-Con? When people talk about a “comic-con,” they’re usually referring to a comic convention — an event where comic fans, creators, and experts congregate to attend panels, participate in discussions and attend parties, centred around comics. The very first comic convention was held in New York in July 1964, but the movement really started gaining popularity in the 1980s. In recent years, these conventions have become more popular, and often expand to cover television shows, movies, and other forms of art and fiction that are more mainstream. There are comic conventions all around the world, including the UK run by many different companies and they all offer slightly different things. Some are enormous, attracting big name stars from Hollywood, while others are more low key events, paying more attention to niche publications and shows. Hundreds of thousands of people attend the conventions every year. There is a revival of interest in comics, and graphic artists are becoming more well known, as they showcase their work on social media. In addition pop culture is now inundated with comic book projects, and fans of mainstream films and computer games often find their way to more quirky, unconventional publications via this route. The million dollar question is often, ‘Do you have to dress up to go to a comic convention?’ No, but many people do and it’s called cosplay. Its not a requirement but it’s great fun. Because convention are so popular now tickets are often limited and can sell out very quickly, so

By Tracey Anderson

you need to buy early if you want to attend one of the big, popular events. In addition because of the expansion to include more movies and TV shows, fans of these productions e.g. Buffy or Twilight often show up just for that feature, which locks out the die-hard comic book fans, the people the events are designed for. Sometimes its better to head for the smaller events because the experience is more personal. But the fact is that geek culture has gone mainstream. Guardians of the Galaxy and Dark Knight are no longer the preserve of comic book nerds. Five reasons to attend a Comic Con The Special Guests - The chance to meet your heroes in the flesh. Actors from movies, TV shows and anime, writers, and graphic artists. Games – computer games and board games feature large at some events but not at others, so if you love games, look for a convention which goes big on them. Merch – T-shirts, magazines, artwork, autographs, books, memorabilia, costumes and more. Comic conventions are a great place to indulge your love of all things nerdy. Cosplay – Half the fun is admiring all the amazing outfits. Some people buy them but many are handmade with exquisite attention to detail. This is next level nerdiness and it’s awesome. Comics – Of course. That’s kind of the central idea. There will be thousands of titles available and I guarantee there will be some you’ve never heard of, even if you are a committed comic fan.

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Finance

The savvy investor Many investors want a simple way to put their money into shares of multiple companies, usually to mitigate the risk of one performing badly, but of course in the hope of making a healthy gain on their capital. ACTIVE FUNDS The first big divide is between active and passive funds. An active fund usually involves a fund manager who takes money from clients and uses it to buy and sell shares. In effect they aim to use their judgement to pick winners, avoid losers, and outperform the market as a whole. They are usually paid a management fee calculated as a percentage of the investment. Naturally performance varies and it can be difficult to compare investment funds based on past performance. It’s possible the fund or its manager either had a lucky streak or has carefully selected the period for which they are boasting of their performance. PASSIVE FUNDS A passive fund, sometimes called a tracker fund, doesn’t try to pick the best shares. Instead it will either buy shares from all the companies in a particular stock market or buy a representative sample. Either way, the aim is that the overall performance will very closely mirror that of an entire market or a stock market index (such as the FTSE 100). The passive approach is unlikely to bring the spectacularly high returns that come from picking the most successful firms. At the same time, it’s less

likely to lead to dramatic losses from picking shares in companies that slump or even go out of business. It’s more of a slow and steady approach, particularly if you have the time to ride out short-term swings in the market as a whole. UNIT TRUSTS The way you put your money into investment funds and what you are technically buying also varies. Perhaps the best known is the unit trust, where multiple investors pool their money for the fund manager to invest. The fund owns a collection of shares and then each investor owns a unit of the entire fund. When you come to sell your unit, the money you get back depends on the overall value of the shares the fund owns. OEIC Another option is the open-ended investment company (OEIC). This is a fund that operates as a business and has its own shares. Rather than own a unit of the fund, you technically buy and sell shares in the company itself in the same way as you would with a normal publicly traded business. However, you’ll normally have to pay a fee (to cover the fund management) when you buy shares in an OEIC and you may have to pay an exit fee when you sell shares. TAX However you invest, always seek professional advice when investing to make sure you comply with tax laws and take advantage of available allowances and tax-free schemes such as stocks and shares ISAs.

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A FREE WILL for Homeowners Protect your home and legacy for your children • • • • • •

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DON’T PUT IT OFF – Don’t let your home and money disappear, make sure your estate goes to your family… leaving “what you want” to “who you want”. CALL 01767 660250 or email info@willandestateplanning.com for more information or to book a free meeting with one of our Will and Estate Planners either in your own home or at our offices. Baystrait Ltd t/a Will & Estate Planning, Baystrait House, Station Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8AL

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Home Products

The art of ‘barkitecture’

The perfect place for your beloved dog to curl up after a long walk. This cosy pet bed is made from a durable outer fabric with a 100% recycled polyester inner pad. Terriers pet bed in medium, £61, Sophie Allport.

By Katherine Sorrell Create a home that includes your beloved pooch – and all their necessities – within a practical and attractive design scheme. No need to find a cupboard in which to keep your treats when you can pop them into a goodlooking galvanised-steel tin. The scoop is included, too. Woof! Dog treat tin, £29, Sophie Allport.

Complement your home décor with a soft and comfy (and washable!) dog bed. Scruffs Manhattan box bed in Berry Purple, from £39.99, Dobbies Garden Centres.

Cosy and playful, this Nordic-style teepee is the perfect snooze spot for larger furry friends such as Border Collies and Labradors. Crafted from felt and pine, it features a reversible sherpa cushion inside. Terri pet tepee in large, £75, Made.com.

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Animal-first design and architecture

Treat your dog like royalty in a velvet-upholstered bed. The hand-carved wood features a whitewashed finish. Princely Pooch blue velvet pet bed, £440, The French Bedroom Co.

One of the most luxurious pet beds available, this oval basket is handmade in England from Suffolk rush and available in five sizes. The baskets are carefully constructed using a three-ply weave and are shaped with the help of an internal wooden frame to ensure consistent shape, rigidity and strength. Oval rush dog basket, from £207, Nicholas Engert Interiors.

The walnut finish of this pet feeder adds an upmarket look, while toys and treats can be popped inside for a tidy mealtime. Kyali pet feeder & storage, £100, Made.com

Give your dog a spot of luxury with a special drying coat and matching drying mitts. These leads are soft and pliable, and finished in brass and real leather fixings. Sandringham Blue large drying coat, £52.95; leads £14.95/£16.95; drying mitts, £21.95; all Ruff And Tumble.

Get the luxury look with a marble-effect feeding bowl. Ceramic dog bowl £4.99, Homesense.

• Pinterest has identified ‘barkitecture’ as a key trend of 2022, with searches for ‘luxury dog room’ up by 115%. At the upper end of the market, you can commission a bespoke dog bed space within the base cupboard of a kitchen cabinet, library shelving or a dresser, or have a mini four-poster, sprung mattress or hand-woven bed that looks good enough for any designer bedroom. • When on a more limited budget, aim first to coordinate your dog’s bed with the room in terms of colour and/or material. A wooden bed can, for example, be painted the same colour as surrounding cabinetry, with a fleecy, padded liner that can be thrown in the washing machine regularly so it never looks too mucky. Woven wicker baskets look gorgeous – but bear in mind that they may not be appropriate for dogs who love to chew. • Find a handy place to hang accessories such as leads, towels and coats. If they’re colourcoordinated so much the better – you might even want to give them a special hook. If not, tuck them away in a corner where they won’t jar. • Look for feeding bowls that match the colours and materials in your kitchen (or wherever you feed your pet), and stylish containers in which to keep their food and treats. • Some aspects of looking after a dog are just like having a toddler. Toys, for example, tend to get spread around the house and are often not the nicest to look at. Just as you would with children’s toys, find a suitably robust basket or box that blends into a corner of the room so they can be stored neatly away when not in use.

STOCKISTS Dobbies Garden Centres: 0131 5616 406; dobbies.com The French Bedroom Co: 01444 415 430; frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk Homesense: 01923 473 561; homesense.com Made.com: 0845 557 6888; made.com Martin Moore: 0845 180 0015; martinmoore.com Nicholas Engert Interiors: 01488 657 900; nicholasengert.co.uk Ruff And Tumble: 0333 207 9960; ruffandtumbledogcoats.com Sophie Allport: 01778 560 256; sophieallport.com

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Gardening

Naturalistic planting

Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

Naturalistic planting What is this style that we loosely call naturalistic planting? If a vision of opposites helps to define the image, a formal garden will come close. Think of the antithesis, and you’re nearly there. A naturalistic garden could be described as wild, but if it’s been designed this way, it’s anything but. Certainly, plants drive the design. You might not associate it with a closely mown lawn or perfectly straight paths. Although, anything goes – and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t combine a naturalistic border with a neat and tidy lawn, or position it close to an undeviating hard surface. A planting scheme that is full to overflowing with perennials, together with grasses and some structural plants too, appears to work in partnership with nature. It’s a form of re-wilding the borders whilst still maintaining some sort of control over the appearance. This idea of wildness is by no means new. Indeed, William Robinson, born in Ireland in 1838, wrote The Wild Garden in 1870. He was one of the most respected garden writers and horticulturists of his time. The most successful of all plants – grass Grasses certainly have the ability to soften the landscape, forming bold statements of shape and form when used in drifts, clumps and swathes. Their flower and seed heads move in the breeze and merge effortlessly into nature. The naturalistic approach to gardening considers ecology as an important part of the process, therefore habitat potential of a planting scheme is a priority. Wildlife can abound in the damp

understorey where there is opportunity for nest building and feasting on seed. Grass, so it seems, is no longer just to walk on, its use has progressed. It is an undeniably successful plant that covers ground in just about every country. Just leave a patch of bare soil and sooner or later grass will appear. There are more than 10,000 different species plus perhaps 5,000 sedges and rushes, so it’s easy to see why we can access so many variations in colour, shape, form and texture. Use grass for structural planting, to divide up your space in an informal way, to create moody areas, fill in bare spaces under trees, create wonderful texture and more. The uses for ornamental grasses are limitless. Gardens to visit Consider the High Line in New York, for which talented designer Piet Oudolf was partly responsible. This influential Dutchman and Henk Gerritson, a former artist from the Netherlands, are known for their ‘new wave planting’ style of ornamental grasses and perennials. Pensthorpe Natural Park Millennium Gardens in Norfolk is another fine example of Oudolf’s stunning work. The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, created for the London Olympic Games in 2012, is a variation on a similar theme. The planting was designed by Nigel Dunnett and Professor James Hitchmough. They are pioneers of ecological and innovative approaches to planting within public spaces, aiming to integrate ecology and horticulture in a most effective and attractive manner.

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Gardening

GreenFingers The Alan Titchmarsh column He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and all-round horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about the pests that parade our petunias… and more. We all want our outdoor spaces to be as beautiful and as thriving as possible, yet by employing a host of natural ways to put pests off, we can keep our courtyards canny, and our green spaces chemicalfree. The best way to do this is to think about natural barriers. These, if done well, can comfortably eradicate snails and slugs and all those little creatures who slide and slime over our prized plants. Any type of copper can be used to make a wall that electrically shocks their body, deterring them from moving further forward, while wood ashes or crushed eggshells also work to put those meddling molluscs off their lunch. While most people consider sprays and pesticides as the best way to keep unwanted intruders away, there are a range of natural squirts that do the same thing. For instance, garlic and chilli may be a culinary staple, but they hold a secret power for gardeners looking to dispose of invaders in a natural manner. Combine crushed garlic and chilli (powdered chilli will do if you don’t have fresh) with one tablespoon of vegetable oil and a small amount of dishwashing liquid or soap flakes. Leave to soak overnight in a jar, then strain and spray on plants. The spray is very

effective towards aphids and caterpillars – but keep away from kids, avoid contact with your skin and eyes, and use within a fortnight! It’s also worth reminding ourselves that not all bugs and beasties are bad news, and done well, you can encourage some into your garden. Plant mint, fennel, dill, yarrow, sunflowers and dandelions will attract ladybirds, hoverflies and lacewings, all of which will happily feast on your aphids. Birds and hedgehogs eat slugs and snails, beetles and insects… as do frogs and toads. Finally, try a trap. Earwigs can devastate seedlings, so if they do pose a problem in your garden, try filling a few plastic flowerpots with straw and balancing them upside down on sticks to attract the pests. The earwigs crawl up the poles and take shelter in the pots at night and you can humanely dispose by emptying them in the morning. Removing pests and critters the natural way takes effort, imagination and no small amount of patience, but opening your garden to nature’s bounty, whilst preserving as much life as possible, is surely the best and most satisfying way to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

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Pets

Looking For Their New Forever Homes

MINDY The RSPCA rescue over 20,000 cats each year. Madeline and Mindy These stunning girls were adopted from the RSPCA many years ago. Sadly when their owner lost their home, the have come back to us. Madeline is black and white Fluffy and super friendly and fussy. Maddie is friendly but a little more cautious but once settled she loves chin rubs. They have always been indoor cats but have been enjoying outside space in the cattery. With this in mind we feel they would benefit from some outside space. These lovely girls have not had one enquiry. They are super friendly would love to get them back in a home, it’s what they deserve. They are in good health and don’t realise they are mature ladies. We are looking to find a suitable home that will take both Madeline and Mindy, as they would very much like to stay together. They would both enjoy living with children but would prefer not to live with a dog.

Fat Cat Fat Cat is a lovely black and white domestic short hair crossbreed, who is approximately 4 years old. Fat Cat’s owner has had to move into a care home so she is looking for a new lap to sit on. She had a very calming effect on her owner who was not well. We think you may wish to think of a new name for her! Fat Cat is still looking for a lap to sit on. Fat Cat would prefer to be the only cat in the home and would also prefer not to live with a dog. He could live with children of secondary school age and would love to be able to go outside and explore. Please make contact with a member of the team, if you would like to begin your cat adoption journey or if you have any questions about the process. Call 01234 266965. You can also get in touch my emailing us at: adopt@rspcabedsnorth.org.uk

FAT CAT

MADELINE 40

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Motoring

How can I cut down costs when driving? The cost of living is increasing in the UK, and a car, for many people, is a crucial way of getting around. So, how can you run it as efficiently and costeffectively as possible? We’ve got some tips to help. Shop around for insurance Motor insurance is a significant outlay and while it’s tempting to automatically renew once your policy comes to an end, this could add hundreds of pounds to the cost. So shop around. Use online comparison sites to find the best prices, though calling providers directly can be worthwhile too. Give an accurate mileage figure Insurance policies require you to estimate how many miles you’ll be travelling in your car. Overestimating your mileage can ramp up your policy cost, so be as accurate as possible to help reduce cost. Pay for your insurance in full If you’re able to pay for your insurance policy in full rather than monthly then you’ll avoid paying interest on your policy. Of course, if spreading your insurance policy over twelve months avoids financial pressure elsewhere, then this option is still valid and ensures you’re covered. The same applies to vehicle excise duty (road tax). Though you can split it into smaller monthly payments, you’ll save money by paying it in full for a twelve month period. Keep your car well-maintained Servicing your car regularly helps ensure that it’s running as efficiently as possible, while technicians can check to see if there are any issues that could cause future problems.

Regular servicing brings down day-to-day costs through better fuel economy and lower oil use. Avoid premium fuels To keep costs down it’s better to opt for regular fuel, and although premium fuels are required by many sports and performance vehicles, regular petrol and diesel cars will run perfectly well on ‘standard’ fuel. Look around for the cheapest fuel Make a note of your cheapest local station, but don’t be tempted to drive out of your way for cheaper fuel, as this is more expensive in the long run. If possible, avoid expensive motorway fuel. Check your tyres Tyres have a big impact on fuel usage and today’s ‘eco’ tyre options offer a lower rolling resistance that help improve your car’s fuel economy. There’s no loss of grip or reduction in safety with these tyres, either. Keep your tyres at the right pressure If your tyres are in good condition, however, then stick with them. Make sure they’re inflated to the correct pressures as this can have a real impact on fuel usage. An under-inflated tyre causes your car to use more fuel, so top them up regularly. The manufacturer’s recommended pressures will be in a panel behind the fuel filler flap, in the door shuts or in the vehicle’s handbook. Remove unwanted items Extra weight in your car uses up fuel, so take out coats, boxes and bags that you don’t need. Also, remove roof racks or top boxes that aren’t being used, as they have a huge impact on fuel economy.

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Technology

Have tech, will travel

The best gadgets for going on holiday If you’re travelling with gadgets, the most pressing issue is keeping them charged. While you can take chargers for everything and use a plug adapter, taking a multi-device charger is a much better – and lighter – option. The MyTravelPal Pro has three standard USB ports for charging multiple devices, and it has surge protection and earth grounding for safety. Spend a bit more and the Anker USB C charger has USB-C ports that’ll charge large devices such as laptops and iPads. Another option is a portable power pack such as Apple’s MagSafe battery pack or Anker’s PowerCore power packs. The former effectively doubles the battery life of recent iPhones while the PowerCores – and similar products from other firms – can be used to charge any device that charges over a USB port. For travel, we’d recommend noisecancelling headphones – brilliant on planes, buses and trains – and a portable Bluetooth speaker for the perfect holiday soundtrack. For beach use or near the pool, make sure it’s waterproof like the JBL Flip 5: that way water can’t stop the music. Another useful gadget is a travel steamer, such as the Tefal DT3030. It’s brilliant for removing creases from suitcase-crumpled clothes, and it heats up in just fifteen seconds. Of all the travel gadgets, the best one is your smartphone – you can use it as a GPS device, to store all your travel plans and e-tickets, to see the weather forecast and much more. But beware if you’re travelling outside the UK, because post-Brexit many networks have reintroduced roaming charges for using your mobile abroad. To avoid expensive fees, consider turning off mobile data when abroad and only use apps and internet sites via Wi-Fi.

Anker USB C Charger This solid, flexible charger has two standard USB ports and a highpowered USB port for laptops, iPads and other powerful devices. It comes with swappable US, EU and UK plugs for use at home and abroad. £49, amazon.co.uk Apple MagSafe Battery Pack The most elegant way to prolong recent iPhones’ battery life is with this charger: it charges with a Lighting cable and attaches magnetically to the back of your phone, effectively doubling the battery life. It works through many cases too. £99, apple.com

Tefal Pocket Steamer At 1kg this portable steamer won’t use much of your luggage allowance, and once you reach your destination it only takes fifteen seconds to warm up and start getting the creases out of your crumpled clothing. £56, argos.co.uk JBL Flip 5 There are lots of water-resistant Bluetooth speakers out there but this JBL is waterproof, so it can survive being dropped into water. It’s surprisingly loud for its size and has great battery life too. £99.99, uk.jbl.com

Jhua Handheld Mini Fan Going somewhere warm or likely to spend a lot of time in warm vehicles? This pocket fan will make everything feel better. It charges over USB, runs for ages and can be folded for use as a table or bedside fan. It’s really quiet too. £12, amazon.co.uk

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Business gone slow? Let us help!

Advertising in The Villager is easy. To find out more call Nigel on 01767 261122 or email nigel@villagermag.com

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Codeword 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Easy Sudoku

Hard Sudoku

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition. Use your logic to solve the puzzles. 48

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What's On

WHAT'S ON IN JULY 1 JULY Bedfordshire Family History Society 7pm and 7.30pm on Zoom Drama Theatre, Mark Rutherford School, Bedford ‘Fleshing out the bones’ with Ian Waller. Web: www.bfhs.org.uk 1 JULY Bedford Art Society 7.15pm for 7.30pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford Members free, visitors £5 Jo Allsopp is a fully qualified and experienced art tutor and will demonstrate the use of watercolours and inks. Tel: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 Web: www.bedsartsociety.co.uk 1 & 2 JULY The Best of Times 7.45pm, Saturday matinee 3pm Woodside Hall, Hitchin Tickets £15. Hitchin Thespians is proud to present a song and dance showcase featuring music from throughout their 120 years of performance. Highlights include numbers from Calamity Jane and West Side Story, into the modern era with Miss Saigon and Hairspray, and right up to date with The Greatest Showman. Tickets: www.hitchinthespians.org. uk 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26 & 29 JULY Bridge Club 1pm Howgills, South View, Letchworth £3. Tuesdays and Fridays. Play from 1pm but do come earlier. Beginners and improvers welcome – we play very friendly Rubber Bridge. Tel: Gill Cheaney 01462 686806 Email: bridgeclub@lalg.org.uk

1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JULY Bridge Club 1.30-4.30pm. Springfield House, Old Stevenage Community Centre Play social cut-in Chicago Bridge. Play is informal and friendly. Tel: Richard Bean 01438 221517 2 JULY The Signals Museum Open Day 10am-4pm RAF Henlow, SG16 6DN The Signals Museum is open to the public. Entry is free but photo ID required to get an entry ticket from the Guardroom. Tel: 07778 837263 Web: www.rafsignalsmuseum.org.uk 2 JULY Write, draw & model in 3D Letchworth Library A fun filled family event. Suitable for children aged 6 & over. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are £3 per person. Book your place in the Library. Facebook.com/LetchworthLibrary 4 JULY Monday Meet Up Social Group 10.30am-2pm Baldock Library Meets on the first Monday of the month with a different theme every month. July’s theme is The Repair Shop. Drop in for a cuppa, a chat and make new friends. 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25 & 28 JULY Retired Persons Table Tennis Club Mondays 11am-1.30pm. Thursdays 1.30-4pm Memorial Hall, Stotfold The club plays both doubles and singles. Monthly subscription payable. Sadly, we are not a club for beginners at this time, but we do have vacancies for new members. Email: terrygriffiths50@gmail.com

4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY Baby Rhyme Time 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills and are an opportunity for you to meet other families too. Booking essential. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY Stevenage Choral Society 7.45pm. Stevenage Music Centre, Mobbsbury, Stevenage Meets every Monday during term time. No audition necessary. Meet like-minded people of all ages and abilities. Try out a wide range of music, from the classics to show songs. Tel: 01438 365769 Email: info@stevenagechoral.org.uk Web: www.stevenagechoral.org.uk 4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY Branch Out Social Club for Single People 8.30-10.30pm Cromwell Bar, The Sun Hotel, Hitchin Medium-sized social club for single people aged 40 upwards. Meets every Monday night. Tel: Lorna 01438 233657 Web: www.branch-out.org.uk 6 JULY Pic-n-Mix Social Group 10.30am-12pm Letchworth Library Meets the first Wednesday of every month. Each session has a theme or activity, and suggestions are made attendees. Drop in for a cuppa, a chat and make some new friends! 6 JULY Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Group 1pm. Shuttleworth Guests £5 ‘Another Icarus: Percy Pilcher’ by Roy Smart. Meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Entry to Shuttleworth £15 (valid for one month). Email: 99aegr@gmail.com Web: www.a-e-g.org.uk

1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 JULY Storytime 10.30-11am Letchworth Library Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. No need to book. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

4, 11, 18 & 25 JULY Monday Painting Group 9.00am-12pm. Letchworth Corner Sports Club, Whitethorn Lane Meets every Monday. Each term we choose a selection of subjects to paint. If you are interested, you are welcome to try it for £5 per session. Tel: Valerie Williams 01462 624439 Email: mondaypainting@lalg.org.uk

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What's On

Deadline for What’s On entries is Monday 11th July.

What’s on entries to whatson@villagermag.net 6, 13, 20 & 27 JULY Baby Rhyme Time 10.30am-11am Baldock Library Free - donations welcome Fun session of songs and rhymes to help your child learn language skills. 6, 13, 20 & 27 JULY Storytime 10.30-11am Stevenage Library Free - donations welcome Interactive story sessions, perfect for pre-school children. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk 6, 13, 20 & 27 JULY Hinxworth Art Society 10am-12pm Hinxworth Village Hall Drawing, painting, coffee and chat. No need to book. Occasional oneday courses and demonstrations. Email: 99aegr@gmail.com 7 JULY The Arts Society North Herts Doors open 10.15am, 11am-12.15pm Broadway Cinema and Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth ‘The Art of Stealing: Nazi Looting’ by Shauna Isaac. Visitors welcome. Lift access. Web: theartssocietynorthherts.org.uk 7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY Hitchin Thursday Art Club 9.30am-12pm St. John’s Community Centre, St. John’s Road, Hitchin We meet every Thursday for painting and drawing, etc. We are a friendly group who enjoy art and chatting. Tel: Mike 07977 347707 7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY Baby Rhyme Time 10.15-10.45am & 11.15-11.45am Hitchin Library Free - donations welcome Fun half hour sessions of songs and rhymes are perfect for helping your child to learn language skills and are an opportunity for you to meet other families too. Booking essential. Web: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY Story Time 2.15pm-2.45pm Baldock Library Free. Story sessions for pre-school children. 7, 14, 21 & 28 JULY Sapphire Social Singles Club 8pm The Orange Tree, Hitchin A friendly social group for single people to meet and make new friends - generally 50+ age group. Tel/text: Ian 07900 890583 for info sapphiresocialsinglesclub.co.uk 11 JULY Story Walk 10.30am Baldock Library Free.Spaces limited so booking essential. Call into the library or phone to book. Tel: 0300 123 4049 11 JULY Icknield Quilters 7.45pm Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock Meets second Monday of the month. Visitors welcome. 12 JULY Lego Club 3.30-4.30pm Baldock Library £3 per child. Second Tuesday of the month. For children ages 5-12 years. Hour of creative fun with Lego. Booking essential at the library. 12 JULY Letchworth’s Poetry ID Book Launch 7pm David’s Bookshop, Letchworth Free entry. Meet authors and hear poems from the new anthology ‘Sackful of Clouds’. Featuring the work of twenty local writers. Bar open. Email your name to confirm attendance. Email: staff@davidsbookshops.co.uk 14 JULY Honey Bees at Benslow. 6pm Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin Tickets £20. Ashley Walker tells the story of the apiary behind the much-loved Benslow Honey. Web: https://benslowmusic.org

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21 JULY Hitchin Friendship Club 2.15-4.15pm St Michaels Mount Community Centre Meets third Thursday of the month. Interesting talks, pub lunches, day trips, coffee mornings, holidays and much more. Refreshments, book exchange, raffle and quiz. Tel: 07974 374106 Email: hfcinfo885@gmail.com 23 & 24 JULY Bedford River Festival A multitude of events and attractions, including countless river activities, live music and performance areas, raft and dragon boat races, festival market, plus much more. Web: riverfestival.bedford.gov.uk UNTIL 2 OCTOBER Body & Soul Exhibition The Higgins, Bedford Free entry. Body & Soul is a new exhibition exploring how women have been represented in art over the past two centuries. Web: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk EVERY WEEKDAY Clifton Walking Group Meets on weekdays at 8.30am and in the afternoon for an hour. A friendly bunch of people of various ages and abilities. Monthly weekend walk of 6-8 miles. No pressure to walk, just turn up as often or as seldom as you prefer. Group meets for coffee once a month and holds other social events. Tel: Suzanne I’ons 07933 709006 Email: ionssuzanne@gmail.com Letchworth Arts & Leisure Group Annual membership £10 per household. Many groups and activities including wine appreciation, film, gardening, theatre, art design, books, discussions, games, sports, outings, walking and much, much more. New groups are starting all the time. Online talks every month. Nonmembers can try activities before joining. Web: lalg.org.uk

GAS SAFE REGISTERED

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Special Report

Take it away! Your home’s drainage system

There’s much in modern-day homes that we take for granted, but perhaps nothing more so than the concealed but crucial network of hidden pipes beneath our feet. Our home’s wastewater is taken away with a quick flush and the oversized storage tanks and pipes that drain excess storm water to prevent flooding after it rains, are just assumed to work. But how well is your home’s drainage operating, and could you be at risk of internal flooding or even the backing up of your house’s sewer pipes? Five common signs you have a drainage problem Do you notice any of the following common indicators? 1. Bad smells and strange noises: blocked drains are common causes for bad odours. As your home’s waste drainage system is all connected, you could be experiencing a build-up of waste inside your pipes at any location. Similarly, the gurgling noise of drains suggests that air is trapped inside the pipework, which is a common indicator you may have a blockage. 2. Slow draining: have you noticed your sink or bathtub is taking longer than usual to completely empty? Partial blockages are very common within the interior pipework. The most common suspects are hair, food waste and cooking oils, which can accumulate and start causing problems very quickly. 3. Damp spots: the appearance of mould and discoloured patches on your walls, accompanied by a damp and musty smell, may in fact be caused by damaged internal waste-water pipes or damaged storm-water run-off guttering, allowing

for internal rainwater penetration in the wall cavities. 4. Overflowing gutters: the storm drainage system can be clogged up easily by the natural elements. Leaves, twigs, mud and debris can restrict the flow of water inside your pipes, forcing your gutters, gullies and manholes to flood, resulting in overflowing chambers. 5. Flooding or outdoor water patches: this one may be obvious, but we don’t usually expect that garden flooding can be caused by faulty drainage. If you notice areas of your garden that don’t seem to be draining correctly, this could be a sign of blocked or cracked pipework. When you should contact the professionals Undertaking regular inspections of your property’s drainage is the key to avoiding any nasty surprises. Over time, your property’s drainage will deteriorate naturally, developing cracks and open joints, which leads to the breakdown of the drainage system, especially in older properties. Whilst many drain blockages can be resolved yourself with the use of over-the-counter drain unblocking chemicals (and a good plunger!), some more serious problems like flooding, broken pipes or damage caused by tree root infiltration should be diagnosed and repaired by qualified professionals, who can carry out a complete camera survey of your internal and external drainage network to identify your pipe’s materials and condition, and locate any cracked or collapsed pipework. If you are buying an older property, a professional inspection of the drains should be part of your pre-purchase checks.

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Sport

Fancy a kickabout? Many of us loved playing football when we were kids. Some of us even kept it up through our teens. But life gets in the way and sport can fall by the wayside. If you’re missing getting out on the pitch rather than just cheering on your team, why not try five-a-side? Why play? Football is an excellent sport for developing all-round fitness. It builds stamina, improves coordination, and strengthens your muscles and bones. It’s also a good choice if you need to lose weight, reduce your blood pressure or lower your cholesterol (but do check with your GP first). And, of course, five-a-side is a social sport and can be a great stress reliever. As with any exercise, it’s important to build your fitness up gradually, and to do a proper warm-up and cool-down to help avoid injury. Who can play Kids, adults, men and women, with a range of abilities and disabilities, can all play five-a-side. One of the great things about five-a-side compared to regular football is that it’s played on a smaller pitch with fewer people for a shorter time. So you won’t have to run as far, you’ll get more time with the ball and you won’t get quite as worn out. If you’d rather not run at all, or mobility is an issue, why not try walking football? (See www. walkingfootball.com for details.) Are you a wheelchair user? Check out www.wheelpower.org.uk.

What you’ll need First off, you’ll need a decent pair of football boots. The best type depends on the surface you’re playing on. Your local sports shop should be able to recommend suitable shoes, or www.5-a-side.com has an in-depth guide that’s worth checking out. If you’re just playing with friends, you can get away with wearing a T-shirt, sports shorts and football socks, but you’ll want to invest in a decent sweatwicking football shirt before too long. You can often borrow a football and bibs when you hire a pitch. However, you’ll likely want to buy your own football to practise with at home. How to join Despite the name, five a-side is often played by four to seven players on each side. If you know how to play and your friends are up for joining you, why not book a pitch at your local leisure centre? After a few practice matches, you might want to up the adrenaline by joining a local league, either by registering your own team or by joining an existing club as an individual. You can find details for all the different league organisers at www.thefa.com/getinvolved/player/5-a-side. Never played before or rather out of practice? You’ll find plenty of videos on YouTube explaining the rules. Many clubs welcome beginners, but you might want to start off more casually by just posting on social media or work boards to see if anyone fancies a kickabout.

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SHIRON

Premier

Domestic Appliances Repairs of

Painters and Decorators

Washing Machines Tumble Dryers Dishwashers Electric Ovens Electric Cookers Electric Hobs

Premier Painters and Decorators are a professional, punctual and hard working company delivering outstanding quality of work to our clients in and around Stevenage From wallpaper hanging, feature walls, coving and cornice work. We even clean facias, soffits and guttering. (PVC or Wood) If you would like to take advantage of our services, require a quote or advise please do not hesitate to contact us. Be assured when Premier quote a job there are NO HIDDEN EXTRAS. Private and commercial, exterior and interior painting services.

VAT Registered Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda and Whirlpool appliances.

Contact RONNIE Tel: 01438 720 304 Mobile: 07396 579717

Email: rohintoncooper@hotmail.com

For a free quotation please contact Gary on Tel: 01438 353793 Mob: 07733 227961 Email: info@premierpd.co.uk

www.premierpd.co.uk

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Crossword Puzzle Solution from our June Edition Last Month’s Crossword Winner - Emily Haynes, Great Paxton

June’s Codeword and Sudoku Solutions

Easy

Hard

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The Villager Prize Crossword Prize

£25

Complete the crossword and fill in your details below, before

16th July 2022 Either cut out this page and send to Prize Crossword, Villager Publications Ltd. 24 Market Square, Potton, Beds SG19 2NP Or photograph your entry and email to competitions@villagermag.com The winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries.

Across 1 Unable to hear (4) 3 Previously (8) 9 A lawn game (7) 10 Tease (5) 11 Produced (12) 14 Period of time (3) 16 Stop (5) 17 Feminine pronoun (3) 18 In spite of (12) 21 Shoreline (5) 22 Placing (7) 23 Daily (8) 24 Requests (4) Down 1 Twelfth month (8) 2 Embellish (5) 4 Not in (3) 5 Dimensions (12) 6 Entrants in a race (7) 7 A toy (2-2) 8 Adequately (12) 12 Map or diagram (5) 13 Communications (8) 15 Mean (7) 19 Departs (5) 20 Land measurement (4) 22 Small vegetable (3)

Name:

Address:

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Tel:

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Books

Crafts, hobbies and weekend projects Summer tiiime, and the living is eeeeasy…. Whether you’re looking for some barbecue inspiration or a new novel to keep you company on the hammock, we’ve got you covered.

Learn Drawing Quickly Sharon Finmark

This little book packs in a huge amount. You’ll find plenty of practical advice on composition, shading, perspective, proportion, choosing materials and so on, along with simple exercises and ideas for subjects. There’s everything from watercolour flowers to sketched urban street scenes. An overarching theme is of finding the beauty in everyday objects – a kitchen shelf, kids playing on the carpet, a man’s shirt. If you want to start drawing, improve your existing skills or just get some fresh inspiration, this book is a must.

Woodwork: The Complete Step-by-Step Manual Published by DK

Many of us tried woodwork in school. And for most of us, that’s where we left it. If you fancy dusting off your skills, this book could prove invaluable. There’s detailed guidance on tools and techniques, as well as stepby-step instructions for a wide range of projects, from a simple chopping board and wine rack to a more ambitious glass-fronted cabinet and gateleg table. Whether you’ll learning how to sharpen a bench plane or make a bookcase, the full colour photographs and easy-to-follow instructions will make your life a lot easier.

She’s in Ctrl Anne-Marie Imafidon

Perhaps you’re looking to turn a hobby into a career? Women are currently underrepresented in tech. In She’s in Ctrl, computer scientist Anne-Marie Imafidon looks at how more women could be encouraged into engineering, coding, physics and other STEM careers. She shares her own story, as well as those of other female pioneers who are helping to transform the world of science and technology.

Nature Cuts Georgia Low

Aimed at beginners and enthusiasts alike, Nature Cuts is full of projects to get stuck into. You’ll find a list of required tools at the start of the book, as well as lots of advice and tips on cutting, scoring, choosing paper, folding, transferring designs and so on. And, of course, twenty beautiful, nature-inspired projects, from floral photo mounts to tealight lanterns.

Breadsong Kitty and Al Tait

Part memoir, part cookbook, Breadsong tells the story of Orange Bakery founders Kitty and Al Tait. At fourteen, Kitty sank into a cloud of depression so deep that she struggled to get out of bed. One day, her dad, Al, persuaded her to bake a loaf of bread with him. Soon they were baking daily, making loaves for friends and family, and experimenting with new recipes. Breadsong features the most successful of those recipes, from Sticky Fika Buns and Salted Caramel Happy Bread to Overnight Foccacia and Ultimate Chelsea Buns. A must for baking fans.

Jane Packer’s Flower Course Jane Packer

Whether you have a garden brimming with flowers or you just grab a bunch from Tesco’s now and then, this book will teach you how to display your blooms to their full glory. From simple arrangements to wreaths, garlands and bridal bouquets, each project is accompanied by stunning, vibrant photographs and clear instructions. An ideal book for beginners and seasoned pros alike.

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By Kate Duggan 61

I D Decorating Painting & Decorating Services Painting – Interior & Exterior Decorating

Plumbing

Gary’s Plumbing Over 40 years experience No job too small! Please call Gary on

07530 728091 Wheelie Bin Cleaning

Coving No Job Too Big Or Too Small Fully Insured & Free Estimates Telephone: Ian Dunklin 0790 508 3799

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Stevenage July 2022

Articles inside

Book Review

Naturalistic Planting

Fancy a Kickabout?

Have Tech, Will travel

Looking for their new Forever Homes

Villager Prize Crossword

Your Home’s Drainage System

How can I cut down costs when driving?

The Art of ‘Barkitecture’

Take a Dip Outdoors

Staying Safe in the Sun

What is Comic-Con?

Would you benefit from counselling?

The Savvy Investor

Summer Sun Hats

Shuttleworth Events

Madeira: The Pearl of the Atlantic