FREE

TM

Connecting Communities INANDAROUND MAIDENHEAD, BRAY and COOKHAM

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2012

T

2 ALONG THE THAMES

Are you looking for exceptional childcare?The House that Jack Built (Day Nursery) Limited has just been awarded “Outstanding” at one of their nurseries and is amongst

one of the few nursery chains to have an Early Years Professional within its dedicated team of staff.

We strive to offer:A loving and homely environment where young babies feel safe

and secureHigh quality childcare providing an environment of rich learning

experiencesCaring, committed and enthusiastic staff

A strong partnership with parentsRegistered to care for children aged from 0 to 5 years

Open 51 weeks of the year Monday to FridayOpening times are 7.30am – 6.30pm

Breakfast, lunch and tea all provided and freshly prepared by our dedicated chef

Are you looking for a career in childcare?please call us for more information and an informal chat

The House that Jack Built59/61 Marlow Bottom

Marlow BottomBucks SL7 3NA

For more informationVisit www.thtjb-daynursery.co.uk

call Claire on 01628 481601or email info@thtjb-daynursery.co.uk

56 Place purpose built children’s nursery

Here we are Christmas only a few weeks away, the night’s drawing in and the days getting colder. The children are getting more excited at the prospect of Santa and presents which draws ever closer. As parents we get more stressed thinking of all the gifts to buy, the food to prepare and the numbers of people we are entertaining. What a wonderful time of year it is as you see the excitement on children’s faces as you get together with family and get the chance to have some well-deserved time off.We have some new writers joining us this issue - Tony Silver, who will be taking us through the minefield, that is social media. Emma Filtness, who will be looking at what is on inandaround London and our local area for you to visit. In this issue we have listed some of the outdoor skating rinks available to visit. Jacky and Mark Bloomfield are starting a new series on what you can see in our beautiful countryside at different times of the year. Sophie Ward and Adele Miller, registered homeopaths, will be helping us to stay healthy in the year ahead.We have all of our usual features, including gardening, beauty, travel, business and fashion. Christine Chalkin, our local astrologer tells you what you have in store for the new year.We’d like to thank all our Advertisers and writers for their support through 2011 and you the residents for supporting them. We also like to thank you for supporting our locally owned Along The Thames, as we turn 5 years old this issue.Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we look forward to being with you all again in February.Until next time, Happy Reading..........

PUBLISHER & EDITORSerena Edwards

ADVERTISINGFor all enquiries please callt: 01628 771419 f: 01628 421501e: offi ce@AlongTheThames.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORSHarriet Subramanian, Niki SchäferAlexander Parsons,vMichele AxisaChristine Chalkin, Kasia Cole, Jill Coleby, David Rhys PriceTony Silver, Sally Todd, Kate Robinson, Emma Filtness, Vanessa Woolley, ,Adele Miller, Sophie Ward, Jacky & Mark Bloomfi eld

Along the Thames Magazine1 Bell Street, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 1BUt: 01628 771419 m: 07711 887107e: offi ce@AlongTheThames.co.ukw: www.AlongTheThames.co.uk

FRONT COVER: Courtesy National Trust

ACCOUNTSAccounts@AlongTheThames.co.uk

Along the Thames Magazine ISSN 2047-3389

Along the Thames Magazine Marlow is the sister title to Along the Thames Maidenhead.and prints and distributes 16,200 copies bi-monthly and hand delivers copies into ABC homes inandaround Marlow, Bourne End, Maidenhead, Cookham and Bray, as well as in bedrooms and reception rooms of hotels, golf clubs, coffee shops, hairdressers, libraries and local information centres. It has an estimated readership of 64,800

The views expressed in Along the Thames magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor/publisher. While all reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy of our content, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors/omissions relating to the editorial/advertising in this publication or for loss rising as a result. No part of the contents of this publication can be reproduced without the express permission of the authors and is protected by copyright.

© Along the Thames 2011

4. Last Posting Dates5. Outdoor Skating6. Health & well-being10 Food and Drink16. Lighting works - Niki Schäfer19. Thinking of extending?20. Sally’s Smalltalk23. Winter tips to sell your home24. Garden26. Country Wise27. Favourite Walks

29. Travel - Venture into the unknown30. Fashion32. Beauty: Through the Festive

season and New Year34. Hair by Alexander36. Readers Corner37 Breaking up is hard to do39. It’s my Job - Vanessa Woolley40. Business41. Property Investment The good, the bad and the ugly

44. Pets46. Motoring50. Community events & information51. Top tips on how to create

a beautiful & long lasting festive arrangement

59. Last minute Gadget gifts52. Out and About54. Horoscopes56. Useful Numbers57. Services

Welcome

Contents

Proud Sponsor of Along the

Thames Creative Writing Prize at

10 28 30

4 ALONG THE THAMES

Last Posting1st Class - Tuesday 20th December

2nd Class - Friday 16th December

Special Delivery - Friday 23rd December

Built on chalk Temple is an excellent autumn and winter golf venue with play to main greens in all but the very worst of ground conditions. Excellent value for money winter packages are available from 1 November - 31 March, but please book early to avoid disappointment, especially if you are interested in one of our renowned golf and festive lunch packages during December. With prices

starting from as little as £30, you cannot afford not to visit Temple during the Winter season.

For more details about membership, group packages or to book a round of golf, please contact us.

Membership options include:

• Full and Weekday • Flexible 10

• Associate (preferred green fees with membership benefits)

• Intermediate (Ages 25 - 29) • Colt (19 - 24) • Forces

• Corporate • Junior (14 - 18)

• Junior (10 - 14) • Starter Membership

Tel: 01628 824795 Fax: 01628 828119Email: enquiries@templegolfclub.co.uk www.templegolfclub.co.uk

Henley Road, Hurley, Berkshire, SL6 5LHTemple Gol f ClubTemple Gol f Club

ALONG THE THAMES 5

FFFAMMILLY FFUUNN TTHHIISS WWWWWWWIINNTTTEERREEEXXPEERRIEEENNCCEE TTHHEEE MMMMMMAAAAAAGGGICC OOFFFF OOOUUUUTTDDDOOOOOOOORRR SSKKAATTINNGG

Fancy a fun family day out this winter? Want to try something a little bit different? Then why not experience the magic and beauty of outdoor ice-skating in some of London’s most spectacular surroundings? It’s festive, fun and good for you!

Outdoor ice-skating is proving increasingly popular in London and the surrounding areas with more and more outdoor rinks springing up in different locations each year during the festive season. Take the kids to visit the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, treat yourself to tea and cake in the café, then head on out front for a spot of skating before heading home, exhilarated, exhausted and content. Alternatively, take the family for a relaxing stroll around royal formal gardens, have a late lunch in the palace cafe then skate as dusk descends.

Outdoor rinks are generally open from November to January. Ticket prices vary, with peak, off-peak and family ticket sales available. It is generally recommended that you buy your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Skate hire is included in the ticket price, with some places offering bob skates for toddlers (special skates for small children with two blades that strap onto the shoe), and at some venues wheelchairs are welcome on the ice.

Take a look at some of the best outdoor ice-skating locations below:Hyyde Parkk WWWWWiinntteerr WWWoonndddeerland

Winter Wonderland has celebrated its 5th year with the opening of a new ice rink surrounding the Victorian bandstand. Not only is it the biggest in the UK, but at night there are no less than 108,000 pea-

lights illuminating the ice, creating a magical atmosphere for skaters.

As if this wasn’t impressive enough, the Wonderland has so much more to offer – there really is something for everyone! Take young children to explore Santa Land and to meet the man himself; for teens there’s the largest array of rides in the capital; find the perfect handmade gift at the Angel Christmas Market; and stop to refuel at the English food market or the Bavarian Village.

The Wonderland is free to enter but tickets and entrance fees apply to many of the attractions, rides and activities within. For the ice rink family tickets and concessions are available – visit www.hydeparkwinterwonderland/tickets for more information.NNNaattuurraal HHHissttoorrryyyyyy MMMuuusssseeeuuummmm

Marshals are around to offer you a helping hand and you can even book a session with an experienced ice marshal to improve your skills. If you don’t want to skate you can warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine in the Café bar, watch your family and friends from the balcony or take a ride on the fairground carousel.

Before or after your skating session why not take a look around the museum? There is plenty to see and do inside! The museum offers a range of daily activities and events, including film screenings. The museum and café are free to enter. Ticket prices for skating start from £8. This rink also runs sessions for wheelchair users. Visit http://www.nhm.ac.uk/ for further information.WWWWinnddsssooor OOOOnn Icccceeeeee

The Windsor ice rink is set in the stuning surroundings of Alexandra Gardens which offer wonderful views up to Windsor Castle. Make a day out of a visit to Windsor ice rink with refreshments at the rink-side Cafe, which serves hot drinks, mulled wine and seasonal, festive snacks, followed by a bout of sight-seeing.

This rink is covered to protect you from the unpredictable British elements and is open from December

– January. Family tickets available from £20 (off peak) – visit www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on/windsor-on-ice for more information. HHHaammmpppttoonn CCCooouuurrrrtttt PPPaalaaaaacccceeee

Listen to music and take in the magnificent surroundings as you glide (gracefully or not so) around the rink in front of the attractive West Front of Henry’s Tudor Palace. Family tickets available from £32. Advanced booking is recommended. Wheelchairs are welcome on the ice.

You could also get enjoyably lost in the famous puzzle maze with its many twists, turns and dead ends or go for a stroll through the famous formal gardens. Visit www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace/Default.aspx for further details.

Emma Filtness

Tips for beginners• Wear appropriate clothing – the

rinks operate in most weather conditions so you may get wet! Gloves are good, too.

• Keep your knees bent and your weight forward – this helps you keep your balance.

• First, take small steps with your skates, then try gliding with each step.

• Keep your head up!

• If you are having difficulty, stay near the edge so you can hold on if you need to, or skate with a friend/family member until you feel more confident.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Adele Miller RSHom B.Sc(Hons)(UCL), P.G.C.E. (Institute of Education, London). Dip. Diet and Nutrition, Dip. , P.H.S.H

‘ The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or constitute medical advice. If you are in any doubts or you have been diagnosed with a medical condition, always seek the advice of your medical practitioner.

Winter may be just around the corner – but it is as important in winter to keep up with that intake, as it is in summer!

Central heating or warm shops and offices are de-hydrating places to be in – especially if your workplace has ‘hot air’ heating.

The famous – or should I say, notorious?! – “drink two litres a day’ is actually based on HALF of a sentence of a study carried out way back in the 1940’s…….

The sentence began with words to the effect that a human being’ requires (up to) two litres of water a day…

BUT the REST of the sentence read“Over 90% of which is met by the water content of

everyday foods.” (My emphasis).TOO MUCH water is as poisonous to the body as too

much oxygen – as ever, we have an exquisitely ‘tuned’ self-regulating system of water management – but upset the balance either way and we can find ourselves in trouble.

You may remember the tragic death of 18 year old Leah Betts some years ago – she was taking ‘Ecstasy’ tablets at her birthday party and to try to ‘help’ her body, she drank a lot of water in the course of the evening – over two litres, as I recall.

Drinking too much water, especially if you are reducing your salt intake, can strip our bodies of valuable ELECTROLYTES.

Electrolytes serve 3 general functions in the body:

1. Many are essential minerals needed for healthy bones and teeth as well as being involved in blood clotting, the passing of ‘messages’ from nerve to nerve and the reaction in muscle tissue and muscular contraction.

2. They control the movement of water molecules between cells and body tissues by a special process called OSMOSIS.

3. They help keep the acid/ base (alkali) balance required for normal cell activity in balance.Common electrolytes include Sodium ions and Chloride

ions which form as a result of salt dissolving in water. Water is bit of a ‘magical’ molecule with lots of special qualities that make Life processes possible – it is slightly electrically charged and this favours ionisation.

So drinking too much water whilst not replacing the sodium chloride can lead to electrolyte loss – leading in the tragic case of Leah, to death.

Shortage of sodium can produce symptoms of muscular weakness, dizziness, headache, tachycardia (irregular heart rhythm) and shock. Sever loss can result in mental confusion, stupor and coma.

Excess can produce symptoms of intense thirst, fatigue, restlessness, agitation and coma. Generally, our diets tend to have ‘too much’ salt than too little – but vigorous exercise leading to sweating along with a deliberate reduction of salt intake, MAY cause us harm. As ever – in ALL things, MODERATION is key!

Started to sniffle? Don’t panic! Our bodies have evolved wonderful self-correcting systems. Getting a cold at the start of winter may be how we ‘inoculate’ ourselves against the form of virus active each year.

A healthy system catches a cold, responds and the person ‘bounces back’ after a few days.

Of course, anyone who is not ‘bouncing back’, is worried or feels worse, should see their G.P.Help your body by:

• Staying off work for a day – why take your germs in?• Resting and Sleeping• Drinking lots of water• Avoiding tea and coffee – they are Vitamin C ‘robbers’.• Shorten the course of a viral cold

or ‘flu by natural ways• Common advice is, at the first signs, take

3g of Vitamin C; then 1g every 2/3 hours to a maximum of 8g daily. Fizzy tablets are

convenient. The vitamin is safe* and water-soluble so any excess gets flushed away.

• Caution: some people experience stomach discomfort or loose bowels. If you do, stop!

• CHILDREN - give the dose indicated for their age.• Eat your way to health by going for nutrient rich

• Blueberries • Broccoli• Carrots • Yellow, red and green peppers.

• Eat plenty of PROTEIN in fish, red meat lentils, beans and quinoa.

• Ginger is a great anti-inflammatory – put a piece of ginger in a mug, add hot water and sip.

• Avoid eating too much fruit. Fruit contains a natural sugar, fructose, but sadly this has been shown to weaken the body’s immune cells. Of all the forms of sugar, fructose is the worst.

If you develop a cough, this may help:Cut up an onion and place half next to your bed

overnight. Finely chop the other half, add 2 tablespoons of “Manuka’ honey and let the onion juices mix with the honey. Using a teaspoon, sip the mixed juices from time to time – this is great at ‘breaking through’ a cough!

Another ‘traditional’ method to speed away colds is to place 2-3 teaspoons of fresh or dried thyme in a bowl, pour over boiling water (with care!), pop a bath towel over your head and the bowl and breathe in for a few minutes at a time.

Viruses constantly mutate but if you help your immune system, your body may see you through!

All about ..... Water

Winter Sniffl es!

ALONG THE THAMES 7

Kick start your fitness & lifestyle change

With winter celebrations already in full swing, the festive fun and over indulgence mean those best intended New Year’s resolutions won’t be far behind! Drop a dress size? Climb Kilimanjaro? Take your performance to the next level? Unfortunately the truth is that often our resolutions and aspirations never come to fruition. Why? Lack of consistent, quality advice on how to commit to real, long term change and not rely on a quick fix or fad. So we thought we would keep things simple and let you into our secret for simple lifestyle change;

Exercise – With countless activities available and no

definitive right and wrong choices, keep in mind these basics. Your exercise should be realistic. It’s pointless

committing to six sessions a week if it’s never going to happen. More importantly, for most this really isn’t

necessary. 2/3 45 minute sessions a week is more

than enough for most to succeed. Specific; the activity needs to be in line with your goals. It is commonly thought that for weight loss cardio is the way forward. No! Get lifting! Lastly have fun and smile!

Attitude –positivity is half the battle. Be specific about what you really want, and then believe you are going to succeed. Balance your goal - Is the amount you can gain from something equal to the amount you put in; If you are half hearted in your performance then results are unlikely to match your expectations. Stop worrying what your friends or celebrities are doing and focus on what you’re doing.Hydration –important, underrated and often overlooked. Here’s a rough guide. Multiplying your bodyweight in kilograms by 0.033 equals how many litres of water a day you should be drinking. This is a guide, a little trial and

error is necessary. If you find you need more frequent trips to the loo then a simple solution is to add a pinch of unrefined rock salt to each litre. Again, trial and error as everyone is different. You shouldn’t taste the salt!Sleep – Generally speaking, people wake up because of an alarm clock and admit to feeling tired needing more sleep. A lack of quality sleep will seriously hamper fat loss, cause weight gain, illness, aches and age you faster! These are some important reasons for getting quality sleep. 7-9 hours sleep a night, in a blacked out room with no electrical appliances on is recommended. Nutrition –Don’t get hung up on “this or that diet”, ” this” supplement or your friend said “this” definitely works, get the basics right. What are the basics? Eat real food. This generally means one ingredient; an apple’s an apple, a chicken a chicken, see where this is going? Eat protein AND fat, No argument, this is vital to success regardless of your goals. Eat regularly and don’t skip meals. Finally 80% of the time, give yourself a break, nothings perfect. The most important advice, DO! Stop stalling and looking for excuses. Follow these tips and you will feel better and start succeeding in whatever your aspirations are.

Stay Healthy.

Helping you live every day reaching your personal and professional poten al. ASPIRE PERFORM SUCCEED

For more informa on visit our website:www.aps tness.co.ukor email us:

info@aps tness.co.uk

New Studio OPENING JANUARY!Hay Barn, Bartle s Courts,

Maidenhead, SL6 3RX

8 ALONG THE THAMES8888888888 ALALALALOLOLOOOA OAA NG NG NGN THTHTHETHEH THTHAMEAMESS

Keep Sparkling for the party season

Over indulging in food and drink during the festive season is part of the fun for many of us but it can take its toll on our body and leave us feeling bloated and unwell.

Along with the mince pies and the mulled wine I make sure my cupboard is well stocked with homeopathic medicines to help my patients through the ailments of the season.

A particular favourite amongst the busy professionals visiting my clinic is Nux Vomica, which many people use to help with the symptoms of a hangover. The remedy is particularly well suited for wokaholics who tend to burn the candle at both ends. The work hard, play hard brigade!

I would often recommend Nux Vomica when the patient displays symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, nausea and headache, in short the classic symptoms associated with over-indulgence. The yellowish dull skin complexion, dark circles under the eyes and greasy hair is a very good clue of how affected the liver is and I would then recommend a more long term treatment to prevent further risk of aggravation.

Another Christmas classic is the awful feeling of food poisoning that can ruin this wonderful time of year. Arsenicum is a good remedy to bear in mind in such cases and I store several potencies as I have found that both adults and children benefit enormously from it. Although you should always consult your local

homeopath for a correct prescription, it has been established that patients suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting will recover more quickly when using homeopathic remedies.

If your guilty pleasure is spicy food or if you crave yule logs and other sugary delights, then Sulphur is your remedy.

In fact, the list of remedies that can safely take you through the hurdles of the festive season (Boxing Day sales marathon included) is endless and a professionally qualified homeopath, registered with the Society of Homeopaths can guide you through what the right ones are for you. Personally, I have a soft spot for Arnica. This well-known remedy is popular with mums to smooth and ease their petits anges’ bumps but also works wonders for the busy

mummies themselves. Arnica helps with that bruised and battered feeling you get after Christmas shopping or bargain hunting in the January sales.

I am often asked what Detox diet I would recommend to prepare ahead and I have to admit that there is no better cure than prevention. A detoxing regime can be very successful if targeted to suit a particular weak organ or susceptibility rather than the entire constitution, as it would then be too general to offer any long term benefits. Nevertheless, granny’s old trick of freshly grated ginger in a cup of warm water with a slice of lemon first thing in the morning cannot do any harm and ticks my boxes as a Complementary health therapist.

Sophie Ward Bsc RSHom.Registered Homeopath

‘ The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or constitute medical advice. If you are in any doubts or you have been diagnosed with a medical condition, always seek the advice of your medical practitioner.

ALONG THE THAMES 9

Christmas Traditions:

Christmas CrackersNo Christmas dinner table would

be complete without Christmas crackers, and the hats, small gifts

and bad jokes are very much part of the tradition. The crackers were believed to have

been invented in around 1850 in London, by a sweet maker called Tom Smith. He was often trying to

think of new ways to market his sweets and sitting by his fire one night, he thought it would be a good idea if they could make a similar crackle to a burning log as the sweet wrapper was pulled in half. The idea caught on although rather too well as rival manufacturers soon sprang up. Tom Smith’s son, Walter, came up with the idea of including other items and offering different designs as a way of differentiating his product from those of his competitors.

10 ALONG THE THAMES

From the Land of Spices - Rice DishesDid you know that ‘Pilau rice’ is

not a dish from India? That’s right it was conceived in the UK. However a very similar sounding and popular rice dish called ‘pulav’ (or pil�w or pilaf!) does exist in India. ‘Pila’ on the other hand means the color ‘Yellow’ which is the color of ‘Pilau’ rice.

One can imagine how these terms might have been used interchangeably only to create an entirely new rice dish.

This is probably a good example of how the Indian food in UK is similar and yet so to different from the food you would get in India.

In this series of articles we will be giving you an introduction of some of the authentic dishes in Indian cuisine and will at look at some of the classic ways to cook them

This time we will look at rice dishes.

Rice is eaten all over the world and is arguably the easiest food to cook and yet it can be cooked in several different ways. In this article we will be looking at ‘Biryani’, ‘Pulav’, ‘Curd (or Yoghurt) Rice’ and ‘Daal Rice’

Biryani: Put simply, Biryani is a dish where the rice and meat (traditionally lamb) are cooked together. However the actual preparation involved makes this possibly the richest style of cooking rice. The name Biryani itself comes from a Persian word ‘Birian’ meaning fried before cooking. There are different stories about how it was brought to India and the most popular and logical one is when the Mughals came to India from Afghanistan they brought with them their huge army. To feed this huge army during the war the soldiers used to make Biryani as a one dish meal. Biryani became popular as it provided the necessary carbs and proteins to the soldiers to keep them fit during the battles. It

was easy for mass production too!As the Mughal Empire spread

across India, several variations of the Biryani were invented. One of the most interesting amongst them was the Tahiri Biryani. This is essentially a vegetarian Biryani where meat is replaced by vegetables. It was created to cater to the native population who were vegetarians and it is popular even today. Another is the ‘Hyderabadi Biryani’ which comes from the city of Hyderabad - a city with a great history and a rich heritage. Other Biryanis named after the areas where they come from include ‘Kashimi dum Biryani’, ‘Awadhi Biryani’ and ‘Calicut Biryani’Even today Biryani forms a great one dish meal as it has done for centuries. And when made with the apt spices, it can be a very aromatic and flavorful dish which does not need any accompaniment.

Pulav Rice: A tasty alternative to the plain rice, Pulav is rice cooked with vegetables and whole spices and can be eaten on its own or with a curry or Raita (vegetables or fruits mixed in yoghurt). Unlike a Biryani which almost has a curry like element to it, pulav looks more like plain rice, lightly spiced and cooked with vegetables. This combination of spices, onions and other veggies makes a nice aromatic dish. Typically a pulav will have several vegetables in it but there are also variations which involve using a single vegetable like ‘Peas Pulav’ or ‘Paneer Pulav’, ‘Mint Pulav’. You can even find variations

with meat in pulav like ‘Chicken Pulav’. Amongst the many varieties Kashimiri Pulav is one which definitely deserves a mention. In addition to meat or vegetables, Kashmiri Pulav consists of generous amount of dry fruits which gives it a very rich and distinct flavor.

Jeera (Cumin) Pulav (or Jeera rice) is essentially rice cooked and Jeera. It is an aromatic rice dish is simple to make and is a delicious dish prepared using just one spice.

It is traditional to prepare Pulav instead of plain boiled rice when entertaining guests at home.

Curd Rice: This is a real comfort food eaten primarily in Southern parts of India. It is boiled rice mixed with curd (unsweetened yoghurt)and salt. To give it some extra flavor it can be seasoned with ‘Tadka’ (or Tarka) made up of oil, mustard and cumin seeds, green chilies and curry leaves. Traditionally, this is the eaten at the end of lunch or dinner to balance out other spicy food and is often served with Mango or lime pickle. Eaten on its own it serves as a great one dish meal.

Daal Rice: This is the most common way to have rice and is the staple food for the rich and poor. It consists of plain boiled rice, served with Daal - which is cooked lentils seasoned with few spices or none at all. The Daal can take several forms like ‘Tarka Daal’ mostly in North India and ‘Sambhar’ or ‘Rassam’ in South India.

Atul Hiranwar and Aditi Hiranwar

07521836695 I http://aptspice.com aptspice@gmail.com I facebook.com/aptspice

Learn to cook Indian food at your own home AptSpice

Indian Cookery Experience

A unique Christmas gift for your loved ones

ALONG THE THAMES 11

A perfect Wedding Venue for all Seasons

Gone are the days when Summer was the only time to get married. In fact, at the Grovefield House Hotel in Burnham the Autumn and Winter months are becoming increasingly popular as are weddings on a Friday and Sunday. With the arrival of snow last winter some of our brides even enjoyed a true white wedding in beautiful surroundings. With 7 acres of grounds and a large terrace there will always be those glorious backdrops for the wedding photographs whatever the weather and when the sun shines, the outdoor space truly does come into it’s own.

At the Grovefield House Hotel, only one wedding is taken per day ensuring that each bride truly feels special, unique and completely looked after from the beginning to the end of her day. Stacey Walker, the hotel’s wedding co-ordinator has had over 7 years experience working alongside brides and their families and is with the bride and groom throughout their journey. Often, all it takes is a professional and reassuring manner, giving the bride and groom the confidence that the team at the hotel will listen to their needs, be there for them and ensure that their day is a huge success. This is where the team at the Grovefield really do excel themselves offering unobtrusive yet attentive service at all times.

Awarded 2 AA Rosettes in the Hamilton Restaurant, the food is an important factor for many of the hotel’s prospective brides and grooms when they are choosing the venue. A father of one of the brides in November 2011 wrote

“Every aspect of the day was perfect and I was impressed how smoothly the hardworking staff worked together. I must say the meal was excellent and many guests have since told me that it was the best food they had ever been served at a wedding.”Another bride wrote “Our guests were very impressed and some said it was the best food they had ever had at such a function.”

There are a number of different wedding packages and offers available for 2012 weddings as no two wedding budgets will be exactly the same. For selected dates between January and March 2012 the hotel is offering a wedding package at just £3299.00. This includes room hire for the Civil ceremony and reception, Bucks Fizz for 60 guests with a three course wedding breakfast, a glass of sparking wine for the toast and an evening buffet for 100 guests. As with all packages at the hotel, the Bride and Groom are also offered a complimentary bridal suite for the night of the wedding.

There may be many venues to choose from in the Buckinghamshire/Berkshire borders but few have such an enviable reputation for hosting weddings as the Grovefield House Hotel. Many brides and grooms return year after year for anniversary dinners and the hotel has even been fortunate enough to host a christening for one of their couple’s new arrival!

Call Stacey Walker on 01628 603131 to discuss your options, possible dates or to arrange a good time to view the hotel.

Taplow Common Road,

Burnham, Slough,

Buckinghamshire SL1 8LR

Tel: 01628 603131

www.classiclodges.co.uk

www.marks-phillips-photography.com

in proud association with Queensberry Albums of New Zealand

Grovefield House

Where Your Dreams Begin

This Edwardian country house, set in its own

private grounds and tucked between Burnham

and Windsor, has a licence for a Civil Wedding,

a dedicated suite for your wedding breakfast,

a private terrace for reception drinks on summer

days and 40 luxurious and contemporary styled

bedrooms for you and your guests. We’re also

brilliantly located close to the motorway network

and hold two rosettes for dining excellence.

Let Stacey, our wedding coordinator, work with

you to create the wedding of your dreams.

Call her on 01628 603131 or email

weddings.grovefield@classiclodges.co.uk

Wedding Fayre

Sunday, 29th January

11am – 3pm

22-11-11 - Grovefield Wedding Ad Along the thames 75x220 mm.indd 1 22/11/2011 15:02

12 ALONG THE THAMES

Gammon with Plum and Hoi Sin GlazeThere are many ways of serving gammon, and this particular recipe uses a truly scrumptious hoi sin and spicy plum sauce glaze

Serves 8-10

INGREDIENTS 3kg Gammon joint5 Tablespoons Hoi sin sauce5 Tablespoons of plum sauce2 Tablespoon of rice wine/medium sherry2 Tablespoons light soy sauce2 Tablespoons light brown sugar1 Dessertspoon Chinese five spice powder10 Star anise for decoration.

Christmas FayreLuxury Cheese Straws with Chilli & Paprika Makes 30 Straws

INGREDIENTS:500g Pack of puff pastry 2 Egg yolks 1 Dessertspoon Dijon French mustard 1 Tablespoon powdered garlic 150g Grated Gruyere 1 Teaspoon chilli powder 1 Dessert spoon paprika 2 Tablespoons fresh Rosemary leaves 2 Tablespoons finely grated Parmesan Sea Salt for sprinkling.

METHOD 1. Preheat oven to 180C, and mix egg yolk and

mustard in a bowl until smooth. Set aside. 2. Lightly flour the work surface, and roll out the pastry

to 10cm thickness. Prick all over and brush on egg and mustard paste on both sides 3. Evenly sprinkle both sides of the pastry with the cheese rosemary,

garlic powder, chilli and paprika. Lightly press into the pastry. 4. Cut the pastry in half and cut into 2cm wide strips, and approximately 15cm

lengths. Twist each strip holding each end until resembling a rope5. Place on a non stick baking tray, and sprinkle with sea salt and grated parmesan. 6. Bake in oven for around fifteen minutes. 7. Transfer to wire rack and allow to cool a little before serving

ALONG THE THAMES 13

Bespoke Private CaterersAs seasoned professionals wehave a wealth of knowledgefrom within the industry.

Looking for something special?We evaluate your particularrequirements and design amenu package to suit.

www.seasons-catering.comDelicious food inspired by the seasons

Seasons CateringCo. Ltd

4 Market Square, Old Amersham,

Buckinghamshire HP7 0DQ

food@seasons-catering.com

01494 727807

Gammon with Plum and Hoi Sin Glaze

METHOD1. Place gammon in baking tray in

preheated oven on 180c,and roast for approximately 2 hours.

2. Take gammon from oven and remove string and the rind (this can be used for gammon scratchings)

3. Score the white fat on top of the joint with a sharp knife to form a diamond pattern.

4. Put gammon on rack in roasting tin. Pour 400ml water in to roasting tin to stop glaze sticking.

5. In a bowl mix the five spice, soy sauce, hoi sin and plum sauce ,rice wine/sherry and sugar. Mix into paste

6. Brush mixture over the top of the gammon, so that the fat is covered and put star anise over the joint for decoration.

7. Bake in oven for 35-40 minutes, and then remove.

8. Put on platter and serve hot immediately or allow to cool completely.

I am a Maidenhead based cookery writer, and Internet Chef. I am passionate about all aspects of cooking, and through my’ spiced up’ recipes, I aim to bring the enjoyment and benefi ts of spicy food, to a wider readership.

David Rhys Price -The ‘Spicy Chef ’

Cranberry Punch(Non alcoholic)Makes 4 -6 Tumbler glasses

INGREDIENTS: 500ml Chilled cranberry juice500ml Chilled red grape juice500ml Chilled dry ginger ale1 Large lime cut into wedgesIce cubes from traySprig of mint to decorate each glass.

METHOD1. Put above ingredients (omitting the

mint), into a large jug, and stir well.2. Pour into individual glasses and decorate

each one with a sprig of mint.

14 ALONG THE THAMES

Bathroom checklist

Consider all these points when planning a bathroom:

• How much space is available?

• Who will use the room and when?

• What fittings would you like to install and, if there isn’t room for all of them, what is the best way to compromise?

• What is your budget?

• What style would you like overall?

• What type of hot-water system do you have?

• Where will you place the water pipes, the soil pipe and the air extraction?

• What are your lighting and heating requirements?

• How much storage do you need, and do you prefer the fitted or unfitted look?

• How will you buy and fit the bathroom – purchase from the internet and do it yourself, co-ordinate the various tradespeople (electrician, plumber, carpenter, plasterer, tiler, painter etc), use a local fitter, or buy an all-in-one package from a showroom?

• Bear in mind that delivery times can be up to six weeks.

We all know they go nicely with a G&T, but did you know that lemons contain enough acid to ruin the lives of most bacteria found in our kitchens? So, whether you want to sanitise a chopping board, disinfect a counter top or mop the floor, lemons are a great way to keep our homes clean and healthy.

Lemons also make it easy to clean a microwave, simply place a bowl of water and lemon juice in the

appliance and warm for a few minutes. The steam acts on any stains or lingering smells and once you’ve removed the bowl, you can simply wipe the microwave clean.

When it comes to laundry, lemon juice is also brilliant for brightening your faded whites. You can either add it to your washing cycle, or soak delicates in a solution of lemon juice and water to create a mild bleach effect. What’s more, tough food or blood stains stand little chance against this wonder product – simply squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the stain and let it soak in for around 20 minutes, before rinsing with water.

And the benefits don’t stop there, as lemon juice is well known for helping to keep us clean and healthy too. Sore throat? Mix lemon juice with honey and warm water to make a soothing drink. Garlicky and onion-smelling fingers can also be thoroughly cleaned by rubbing over with half a lemon and rinsing your hair in lemon juice can even help to combat chlorine-green hair after swimming.

So, why not swap your harsh chemical products for the natural and economical power of lemons?

The Labours of Lemons

Let our professional cleaning team make your home sparkle!

Our staff are experienced, highly trained in the Tri-Colour™ cleaning process, and know exactly the right treatment for every surface.

We supply all our own equipment and professional cleaning products... We’re con dent you won’t nd a better cleaning service.

0845 226 1293

Regular CleaningSpring CleansTenancy CleansCarpet Cleaning

Oven CleaningUpholstery Cleaning

PREMIER RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

FULLY GUARANTEEDFULLY INSURED

TAILORED SERVICE

ALONG THE THAMES 15

16 ALONG THE THAMES

Lighting WorksLighting can make or break the atmosphere of a home, so how do you get it right?

Lighting is an incredibly hard working element of interior design as every room has different lighting needs dictated by the activities that take place there - be it a romantic dinner for two or a 13th birthday party. A hardy multi-tasker, not only does lighting illumine, set atmosphere and create ambience, it also performs the role of decoration – whether decorative itself, or highlighting something even more fabulous.

Kitchen

Before the dinner party, the kitchen is ablaze with light to make sure everything looks perfect, but once the food is served it is very soothing to leave the kitchen in the dark (where the dishes and the earlier stresses remain perfectly hidden).

However, a few minimal lights, perhaps over the kitchen cupboards, will give a warm glow and relaxed mood – ideal if your home is open plan and the kitchen remains in view. The same effect can also be achieved at a lower level with floor washers installed into the centre island or in cupboards designed to display beautiful vases and glassware.

Bathroom

The bathroom lighting has to work equally hard – in full flood light for applying fake tan but a little subtler for the relaxing soak in the tub. Bathroom lighting today has made huge leaps of progress, as the industry has not only accommodated the rigorous safety regulations, but has done so with style and cutting-edge design. Chandeliers, Art Deco wall lights or LED star-lit showers are all now available for the

bathroom – just as long as you have a qualified electrician to check the safety zones and of course, install the fixtures professionally.

Bedroom

You might well think that bedroom lighting would be less complex but here there is lighting for dressing (to assist in the sock matching battle in the morning) and lighting for reading (so eyes don’t strain on one side of the bed but where less literary partners can sleep without disturbance).

A dimmer is an incredibly useful device for most rooms, and they work particularly well in babies’ bedrooms where you want to peek in to check on a sleeping child without disturbing them. They are equally necessary in the living room when the bright lights of late afternoon can be dimmed to a relaxing evening glow.

Architectural

Where lights were once the firm domain of the ceiling by way of swinging pendant, they can now be found in most parts of the structure of the house – walls, floors, niches. Lights set into steps are not only safety conscious, they are also beautifully decorative, and floor washers will give our much-ignored flooring a hint of the spotlight.

For this type of lighting it is worth getting guidance from a lighting expert or a good quality electrician, as the right bulb and the perfectly angled shade will make all the difference.

Fortunately there is a wealth of choice and a style of lighting for everyone

- chandelier devotees, retro lighting fans, uber industrial enthusiasts and chintzy tasselled lamp lovers, from Moroccan lanterns that throw colours in every direction to lights that come with a world of button-pushing and timer-setting that will keep the techie you know and love happy forever.

Niki Schäfer dwell-being designs

ALONG THE THAMES 17

Step into a new world

Step into one of our showrooms to experience why we are the number one boutique supplier of the most innovative ranges outside London.

ASCOT

The Old Fire Station

67 High Street, Ascot

Berkshire SL5 7HP

Tel: 01344 620211

MARLOW

72 West Street

Marlow

Buckinghamshire SL7 2BP

Tel: 01628 475888

www.hyperiontiles.com

Touch the quality. See the style. Feel the difference.

18 ALONG THE THAMES

‘Deck the halls with boughs of holly, tis the season to be jolly’. Christmas is the one time of year when we can really go a little crazy with our creativity in the home. The inner child is allowed out: sparkle, glitz, bright lights, gaudy colours and fairies are all okay!

I love popping in to see friends over the Christmas period. Apart from enjoying the offer of a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine (or two) I’m interested and inspired by their decorations. No household is ever the same, and I frequently come away from homes with a new idea to incorporate into my own Christmas decoration scheme.

I’ve had the pleasure of going to an ‘uber trendy’ apartment in London, where they’ve opted for one decoration only: a minimalist ice white fibre optic tree which took centre stage in a large hall: so effective and strikingly simple. Then, the pungent scent of a real oversized Christmas tree in a friend’s cottage, with more traditional red and gold baubles, and the tinsel sparingly but tastefully draped on it.

On one tree I saw an assortment of charming hand crafted German wooden figurines (reindeers, snowmen, soldiers, cherubs...); on another an array of Eastern colours in the form of baubles; or simply gold or silver, using different materials and textures such as beading, glass, ribbon, feathers or felt, with clear fairy lights intertwined

through the decorations: a real feast for the eye!The choice these days in artificial Christmas trees

is extensive and can be somewhat overwhelming! LED, upside down trees, white, purple or black trees. Gain inspiration from the cushions in your living room, for example, in deciding on your choice of tree colour, then match the decorations to the tree.

As for the gifts under the tree, you don’t need to dig deep into your pocket and spend a fortune on wrapping paper or gift cards. Gifts wrapped in newspaper or brown paper tied with red ribbon can look really great; and why not recycle last year’s Christmas cards by cutting out miniature gift tags from their illustrations.

A large bowl containing an assortment of baubles makes an attractive centre piece for your dining table or side board. Poinsettia plants in pots scattered around your home bring instant colour and add to the Christmas theme. Christmas wreaths should not only look, but smell good too! Use juniper berries, cinnamon sticks and pine cones for maximum effect in stimulating this sense.

As ‘our home is our castle’, and the door tends to be open to friends and family, indulge in, and enjoy this time of year with colour, glamour and lots of fun too:

Happy decorating, and a very happy Christmas!Michele Axisa.........Feelance Interiors Writer

To see videos on some of our products go to

www.blind-inspiration.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 898123Email: tony@blind-inspiration.co.uk

All types of Blinds, Plantation shutters & Awnings - all supplied & fi ttedManual or Electric controls available

Family run business with over 20 years experienceTo visit our showroom, call for an appointment

ALONG THE THAMES 19

As the year draws to a close and we consider our plans for the coming year, what better time to commence planning the promised extension. This month sees the start of a series on making the most of your home or buildings with professional assistance.

So, whether you need more space for the family? Need additional bedrooms? Want to remodel to allow better use of space for all the family? Add a sustainable heat source? Much as this is often daunting, however, in safe hands this can be an engaging and enhancing experience. An architectural consultant will assist and empower you and can make this a reality as you are steered and guided through the steps.

An Architect as defined by Harris, Cyril M., ed., Dictionary of Architecture and Construction, “Architect” is also a legal term usable only by a registered, licensed architect. Architects are “trained and experienced in the design of buildings and the coordination and supervision of all aspects of the construction of buildings. … A designation reserved, usually by law, for a person … professionally qualified and duly licensed to perform architectural services, including analysis of project requirements, creation and development of the project design, preparation of drawings, specifications, and bidding requirements, and general administration of the construction contract.” McGraw-Hill, 1975

Initially you should discuss your aspirations for your home and the life

style you want within it, together with your budget. Following a measured survey the project will become real as options are drawn up and developed.

This assembled information allows the professional practitioner to grasp a fuller understanding of the way you could best utilise your space by exploring the available opportunities which you may never have thought of.

This exciting stage enables dynamic thinking from the professionals; to question and tease out the essence of the home, not only for current use but for the future.

This creative opportunity is to be relished, therefore be encouraged to search out samples, pictures, childhood notions and images which capture and encapsulate the home you want for your family…….

Once this has been researched your architectural consultant can provide the choices for your remodelled home and fine tune the final design before making the statutory applications for planning and building approvals on your behalf while carefully specifying each detail they are then able to instruct your chosen builder as they develop your aspirations into reality.

Thinking of extending?

20 ALONG THE THAMES

I have been blogging and writing articles for Along The Thames for some time now but my husband thinks I am nuts and is perpetually bemused by my new “online life” and the fact that I attend “tweet ups” with strangers, and disappear into a bubble of social media at any given opportunity. Clearly he hasn’t yet come to terms with the power of Twitter! He now reluctantly finds himself having to help out around the house rather more than he would perhaps like. I am hugely grateful for this as my house proud qualities seem to have gone off the boil, to say the least, lately. This is mainly due to the hideous mess our house is in as a result of some minor renovations we are having done. I say minor, you would think we had bulldozed the house and taken on a complete re-build based on the extent of the mess and epically long time it is taking! So with that, trying to establish a career in writing and all things PR related, taking on work experience and training courses, I have neither the time nor inclination for domestics.

I am therefore extremely lucky and grateful for a one in a million husband who takes on the washing, ironing, vacuuming, picking up of doggy poo, bathroom cleaning, tidying and every now and then, cooking! There was a time where he would rather go hungry than have to cook dinner, but he has let his façade of not being able to cook slip, by producing quite an amazing roast dinner! Silly boy!

We are now happy muddling along sharing the jobs, which my husband is carrying out almost to my exacting standards. Well, you know what I mean? There’s clean, and there is “Sally clean.” But on the whole I am simply grateful for the help. Apart from, that is, the curtains.

The other morning I came down the stairs at stupid o’clock to feed the Beagles. Before getting to the computer for my early morning social media fix, I swung past the lounge and popped in to open the curtains. I did so carefully and gently making sure that each pleat was the same size as the next and that I had not opened the curtain too much, revealing wall space. I like my curtains to hang straight with no creases or crumples, and if I have to move furniture for this I will. In the meantime my husband appeared and thinking he is helping, quickly, in what can only be described as a “yank,” flings back the other curtain. The dreaded wall has been revealed

with the bottom of the curtain awkwardly sitting on top of the sofa, all crumpled up in a heap! He walks out of the leaving me speechless and verging on a fit of apoplexy at the sight which resembles a teenagers bedroom! Clearly my husband has heard my protestations and muttering as he re-appeared in the doorway chuckling. “Ha ha, there’s something for you to write about!” He thinks he is so funny.

OK so I am a bit over the top but am I alone? Surely I am not the only person in the world who neatly draws the curtains, or am I? Part of my reason for being so pernickety about the curtains goes back to an old article of mine that I wrote for Along The Thames a few months back “Does your home have kerb appeal?” People can see your curtains from outside your home. Neatly hanging curtains, evenly spaced, gives the outsider the illusion of a neat and immaculate home. You notice I used the word “illusion?” Clearly you all know now that my home is far from immaculate at the moment, but that’s not to say I want everyone who walks past to think we live in a dump. So I shall continue to neatly draw my curtains in the belief that I am maintaining the illusion of a tranquil home where not a thing is out of place and that it resembles a show home. How about you? To yank or not to yank? :o)

If you would like to share your ideas with Sally, please contact us at and we will pass on all commentsoffice@AlongTheThames.co.uk

OCD - Opening Curtains Dilema!!

Sally’s Smalltalk

ALONG THE THAMES 21

CARPET HOMES

Family run business serving Maidenhead since 1978

• wood fl oors • laminates• Carpets• Vinyls• rugs

Tel: 01628 780580

85-87 Queen Street, Maidenhead, SL6 1LR

O v e n s • A g a s • G r i l l s • H o b s • E x t r a c t o r s • M i c r o w a v e s • B B Q s

Ovenproud“the best you can get in domestic oven cleaning”

To book your oven in or to ask for a quote

call 01494 450 794

A dedicated and considered partnership, working to your requirements. An experienced, fully assured service with

excellent references.

We offer competitive rates and a fl exible service,working together or separately to suit.

Above all, we genuinely want you to feel that your home has been cleaned to your own high standards.

Please contact TLC:01628 673547

Chantal 07736 272157Laura 07810 021014

Two Lovely Cleaners

22 ALONG THE THAMES

BESPOKE KITCHENS AND JOINERYEvery client, home and bespoke furniture project is different

so we create fitted furniture in any style, in any material, for any purpose

BESPOKE KITCHENS AND BEDROOMS HOME STUDIES AND AV CABINETRY BESPOKE STORAGE SOLUTIONS INTERNAL DOORS PLANTATION SHUTTERS

For a FREE survey or quote call

01628 416929www.qminteriors.co.uk

sales@theloftaccesscompany.com www.theloftaccesscompany.com

For everything related to the loft, callThe Loft Access Company on 01628 771177

Need more space?Loft Conversions Roof Windows Loft Boarding Insulation & Lighting

LOFTLADDERS

SUPPLIED &

INSTALLED FROM

£99

Our Service to you• Regular or

spring cleans • Ironing• Windows

- internal & external• Carpet and

Upholstery cleaning• Oven cleaning

All our staff are FULLY EMPLOYED and CRB checked

The same cleaner will visit you at your scheduled time offering a friendly Professional Service.

We are fully insured,

Residential & Commercial

e: admin@creffi eldcleaningservices.co.ukw: www.maidenhead-cleaning.co.uk

Call now for your FREE Quote and NO OBLIGATION home visit

tel: 08454 590 196

ALONG THE THAMES 23

Moving house doesn’t have to be one of life’s big stresses. Relax and get a successful sale with these easy tips on basic Homestaging Your Property For Sale….1. Remember that first impressions ALWAYS count.

Ensure your property has some excellent photos taken inside and outside, decluttering as much as possible and removing ‘personal’ effects, i.e. family portraits, birthday cards, teddies etc. Moving house is an excellent time to have a clear out and donate to local charity shops or get some money at a local car boot sale.

2. Selling in the winter is vital to have your garden or outside of the property as clean and tidy as possible. Checking that fences are repaired or replaced. Try adding pots of small plants to brighten up the garden or entrance path.

3. Ensure windows are sparkling clean and if possible, remove net curtains as these block out light and draw back curtains as fully as possible to get maximum light into your property for viewing/photographs of your property. Check all light bulbs are working and use as high an energy bulb as possible to brighten up rooms.

4. Repaint any dark coloured rooms in lighter shades and add bright cushions and covers to old sofas.

5. Remove any unused furniture or extra chairs. Keep some colour in the kitchen with bright utensils or candles. Fresh flowers and room fragrance sprays/plug ins can help create a homely atmosphere

6. Make good use of mirrors in rooms and long corridors. There is normally a good inexpensive selection in local home DIY stores or even second hand/charity shops.

7. If possible, let your estate agent always do the viewing as they will ‘sell’ your property and not on ‘personal’ memories of each room. Also keep pets out of the house for viewings.

8. And finally, once a sale has been agreed, take expert advice from a good local recommended friendly Solicitor on a fixed price fee . It is essential to have good communication between your estate agents and all parties for a stress free move.

Happy Moving! Suzy Kirkwood

Winter tips to help you sell your home

24 ALONG THE THAMES

Garden Design as a Careerin conversation

with Jill and Vanessa

How did you get into gardening/garden design?

Jill - my mother is a keen gardener so as soon as I had my own garden it felt natural to have a go. The design course followed a long buying career with Habitat I wanted to combine my design eye with my love of gardens.

Vanessa – I followed my passion for gardening and plants into a horticultural career, running my own small maintenance company before moving into design. How did you meet?

At Berkshire College of Agriculture on a garden design course. When we found out we lived only a few streets from each other in Marlow we decided it would be better to go into business together rather

than to compete with one another!Do you ever fall out with each other?

Luckily we have a very similar approach to design and have complimentary skills. We regularly say how great it is to be in a partnership where we can benefit from 2 heads to solve problems, it could be a lonely job otherwise.

What has been the most difficult part of running your own business?

We both feel the work life balance is the hardest thing, separating business from family & leisure time is hard when you work from home ... it’s too easy to end up working all the time. Also working outside in bad weather has it’s challenges !What is the most satisfying part of the job?

Happy clients, seeing a beautiful finished garden, working with plants and being outside enjoying the seasons in all their glory ... even winter What makes you different from other garden designers?

We really work hard to understand what the client wants from their garden; not taking over, we involve them at every stage. We don’t over engineer the hard landscaping, understanding and using plants as an equally important part of a design. Very hands on, we plant our own projects whatever the weather and often incorporate existing plants that need to be moved !

Are you finding it difficult to weather the recession?

We are very lucky that a lot of our business comes from recommendation. There seems to be a trend to extend and improve housing rather than move which has brought us a lot of work as building inevitably wrecks the garden! We do work quite closely with local architects Bowen Evans Where do you go from here?

Maybe one day we’ll do a garden at Chelsea although we both know how much time and effort that requires having been involved in a medal winning College Show Garden at Hampton Court. We would love to do some workshop days to help people get involved with designing their own gardens if we manage to find some time in the diary!

ALONG THE THAMES 25

All Aspects of Tree Surgery Soil Analysis Pest and Disease Control Tree Consultancy Lightening Protection

Mature Tree Planting and Transplanting Stump Grinding/Removal

Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL ARBORIST ON:

01494 677 889 rtrippett@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

By AppointmentTo Her Majesty The Queen

Tree SurgeonsThe F.A Brtlett Tree Expert Company Ltd

Aphids are one of the commonest and most troublesome of all garden insect pests. They attack a large number of garden plants through out the country and recently have been causing much disfigurement to ornamental conifer hedges. Commonly referred to as Greenfly or Blackfly these aphids feed on hedges, sucking the sap of the plant and spreading several varieties of virus, causing severe die back.

The Current troublesome aphid is the Cypress Aphid, which predominantly affects conifer hedging. The damage inflicted on conifer hedges by the aphid Cinara Cupressi is severe and can lead to large brown patches on the hedge, which leads to localised foliage death, reducing the aesthetic look of the hedge.

As the aphid is active from May to October it is important to catch this problem early and apply treatments

to stop its spread. The Cypress Aphid causes damage to Western Red Cedar, Lawsons Cypress, Leylandii and Monterey Cypress. Aphids also indirectly damage car paintwork, patios and drives with honeydew, this a sugar rich sticky substance secreted by the aphids.

Control of aphids on woody and non-woody plants is easy, additionally good cultural techniques help to reduce exploding populations. Techniques that can be employed are ensuring that overwintering aphids do not survive during the winter, cleaning dead plant material and encouraging natural predators will help. In terms of treatments the old horticultural practice of applying a winter oil wash to fruit trees to kill overwintering eggs and young insects is still a very sound practice. Many aphid control products now exist for applying systemically to trees and hedges, these have proven very effective.

A Very Brown Hedge Indeed!

26 ALONG THE THAMES

Country WiseWinter, time to look out of the

window and watch the world go by. After all, it is too wet and cold to go out, it’ll be dark soon, and the fire could do with another log. We dream up a list of reasons why we should not go out. Oh and let’s not forget the number one favourite there is nothing to see, its winter.

We can sympathise, days are short, dark mornings and evenings make it difficult to get out and enjoy the countryside. Yes we did say enjoy and you would be surprised at just how much is going on out there. We know it’s cold and wet but a good friend of ours has a saying it’s not the wrong type of weather; just you are wearing the wrong type of clothes.

Our summer bird visitors have done the sensible thing and gone south to warmer climes for the winter. If only we could follow them. But hang on. Don’t forget that a lot for birds think that winter in the UK, is like us spending the winter in the Mediterranean, which gives us some wonderful opportunities to get close to nature.

Robins are associated with the festive season and are one of the few woodland birds to be heard singing at this time of year. Males and females maintain territories during the winter for feeding. Singing helps the pair to warn intruders that this is their patch, keep out. By mid-January, Robins have paired for the coming spring and the females stop singing.

Look out for flocks of small birds, most commonly Tits and Chaffinches. By forming small flocks at the start of winter, these species form a feeding co-operative. Searching as a flock, increases the chances of disturbing insects, a single bird might miss.

If watching all this activity means that you are in the woods after dark, listen out for the ‘twit-twooo’ of Tawny owls. Tawny Owls pair for life and maintain a territory together. The ‘twit-twooo’ you hear in broadleaf woodland is a duet between a pair of Owls defending their territory. During the day, you may disturb a roosting bird as you walk through the woods as they sit in cover on a branch close to the trunk of the tree.

Water is a good place to see

wildlife during the winter. We are blessed with rivers and lakes aplenty. Ducks, geese, and other water birds, such as Widgeon, identified by their high-pitched whistling calls. Duck numbers are at their highest at this time of year.

We are lucky in this area, we can boast one of the rarest visiting birds to the UK the Bittern. Bitterns from the near continent flock over winter ito the milder climate of the UK. Two local hot spots for seeing these iconic birds are Lavell’s Lake in Reading and the WWT Wetlands Centre at Barnes. .

Look out for both Redwings and Waxwings. These migrants to our shores normally breed in northern Europe, but come to the UK looking for berries, their winter food source. In early winter, the flocks confine themselves to the east coast, but as the supply of berries runs out they move slowly west wards. An interesting fact, about as many Redwings and Waxwings migrate to the UK in winter as Swallows do in the summer.

Another mass migrant to our lands are Starlings. Now this bit of winter spotting will require a bit of travel, so if you only do local, you can skip this bit. I know what you are thinking, Starlings are resident all year round and you are correct. However, at this time of year many millions of migrants join our resident populations. In some places, these resident and migrant birds form very large roosting flocks. If you are up for a bit of travelling try the Somerset Level, Brighton Pier or the Seven Estuary, they have some of the best Starling roosts in the country. Try to time your visit on a still, sunny day. Be at the roosting site just before dusk. We promise you will witness a spectacle that is the equal of anything in the world. As perhaps, a million or two birds wheel and dance in the air

above you before

diving into the roost. It is well worth the journey.

Early in the New Year is a busy time for our fox

populations, this is the mating season. Last year’s cubs, are

pushed out of their parents territories and have to make it under their own skills. Meanwhile, dog foxes will be trying to find a mate. This time of year is when you are most likely to hear foxes barking or that haunting scream as male and females try to get together. The dog fox follows the vixen, trying to make sure that it is his cubs that are born later in the year. Competition with other males can also lead to many a fight, which may wake you up in the middle of the night.

Don’t forget the plant life. In the south of England, late January can see the first Snowdrops poking their heads above the soil. This white carpet of flowers brings a much needed decoration and hope of the spring to our woods.

Look out for the showiest tree in the hedgerow. In Chalky areas the Spindle-tree stands out, because of its bright orange fruits and red capsules. The seeds are poisonous to humans but not to birds, who eat the seed and digesting the fleshy covering and spread the undigested seeds over wide areas.

Hopefully we have given you a few ideas to get you started and about what you can see and do at this time of year. There are many more we could mention but we will leave you to find them for yourself. So switch off the television and go for a walk.

We both wish you all the compliments of the season.

Mark and Jacky Bloomfield

ALONG THE THAMES 27

It is a lucky twist of fate and some determined locals that has preserved Cookham’s beautiful Cock Marsh meadow and Winter Hill’s steep chalk escarpment for us to enjoy today. Until the 20th century parts of Cookham and Maidenhead belonged to a royal manor. Within the Manor, land considered too poor for farming was left as ‘common’ land. The local people established rights over the common land to graze beasts and take wood for fuel. On many occasions over the centuries they fought in court against the landlord to prevent enclosure and retain their rights to Cock Marsh and Winter Hill. They succeeded. In 1934 these areas and other common land in Cookham Dean, Pickneys Green and Maidenhead were put in the safe hands of the National Trust. Local farmers still exercise ancient grazing rights on Cock Marsh to this day.

To discover this lovely area, park at the Cookham Moor car park. Enter the field through the metal gate and walk across the meadow to the river bank. Much of the river bank is natural here and there are lovely views of Cookham Bridge to the right. Turn left and follow the path along the bank. You will pass the railway bridge, some river front houses, Bourne End Marina on the opposite bank

and the Bounty Pub, open on weekends. The river path cuts through the final part of Cock Marsh meadow before reaching a gate into farmland. The path turns into a rough drive behind the river front houses. There will be a path on the left that cuts directly through the field towards the hill. It meets a path that

traverses the escarpment of Winter Hill. Follow this path upwards until it comes out on Winter Hill lane. Continue up the lane to the view point. It is believed Winter Hill’s name is derived from its usage as winter pasture for livestock when low lying areas became flooded. The panoramic view of the Buckinghamshire sweep of the river Thames is lovely. It is only completely revealed in the winter when the leaves have fallen from the trees. To return retrace your steps to the path that traverses the side of the hill and continue on that path, ignoring the path across the field you came across earlier. The path edges the bottom of the golf course on one side and Cock Marsh Meadow on the other. The path ends at Cookham Moor car park again. Cookham offers a stunning array of historic and modern hostelries to warm chilled fingers and toes.

Kate Robinson.

In the next of our series Kate Robinson takes us on a winter view from Winter Hill

Railway bridge

view from Winter HillWinter Barge

river view from Cock Marsh

28 ALONG THE THAMES

ALONG THE THAMES 29

Venture into the unknown in 2012If cold winter nights have you already planning your 2012 summer holiday then read on. For this edition of Along the Thames we have gone further afield for some holiday inspiration to feature the Azores Archipelago which includes nine islands. The nine volcanic islands are; Sao Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, Sao Jorge, Graciosa, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo.

The Archipelago of Azores is located in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean and can be reached by direct weekly SATA International flights run from 7 April to 20 October to Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel and depart from Gatwick (not Manchester) in 2012. Alternatively, TAP Portugal offers flights from Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester to Ponta Delgada via Lisbon. An overnight stay in Lisbon may be advisable, depending on flight times.

To help you plan your trip Sunvil Discovery, the UK’s leading specialist to the beautiful, mid-Atlantic Azores, has launched its enticing 2012 real Azores brochure. The brochure features carefully-selected small hotels, pousadas, apartments and self-catering cottages across all nine islands of the Azores. According to Sunvil Discovery the emerald islands are scattered with a range of extraordinary attractions that make these isles all the more enticing.

Highlights include:33 Blue Flag beaches and natural swimming pools. Long stretches of silky black sand, and little coves of golden sand, in stark contrast to the deep blue of the sea. Plus, all of the islands have natural rock pools meaning many a private swimming opportunity.

Around 24 of the planet’s 80 whale and dolphin species are seen in Azorean waters, with at least four - the Sperm whale, Bottlenose, Common and Risso’s dolphins - making these Gulf-stream-warmed waters their home. Prices from £50 pp for a half-day whale watching trip. Sao Miguel is home to one of Europe’s most endangered species. The Azores Bullfinch is only found in a few square kilometres of woodland in the eastern region of the island.

Food for thought. Delicious soups, superb fish and seafood, locally sourced beef, spicy sausages, good bread and an abundance of vegetables. On Corvo – The Black Island, home to just 400 people – try fresh turbot, sword fish, sea bream, grouper, moray and conger.

In Faja de Baixo on Sao Miguel you’ll see the fruit at different stages of its greenhouse-bound growth and learn the labour-intensive method used to make them so sweet. Taste the very palatable pineapple liqueur, try the boiled sweets or enjoy it, freshly sliced, for dessert. Each of the islands produces its own cheese – and, paired with good Portuguese wine, it makes for wonderful post-dinner indulgence. On Sao Jorge, the famous namesake cheese is still made in the traditional way and aged for 120 days. Visit the cheese makers, sample their wares and buy if you wish. Producing black, green and oolong tea since 1883, the Gorreana Tea Factory on Sao Miguel is the only tea-producing factory in Europe. Learn how tea is harvested and enjoy the sweeping ocean views.

Botanical bliss. Sao Miguel has a profusion of public gardens. The Jardim Antonio Borges in Ponta Delgada

is especially remarkable, and the stunning 30-acre Terra Nostra Park in Furnas - with its giant araucarias, tree ferns and geothermal bathing pool - boasts an internationally significant collection of plants.

*A seven-night stay at new property Cantinho das Buganvilias costs from £906 pp (two sharing). The price includes return direct scheduled flights on Saturdays (Gatwick to Sao Miguel) with SATA International, return inter-island flights, two nights’ B&B on Sao Miguel with transfers (first and last night) and five nights’ self-catering with car hire on Sao Jorge. Prices for the Casa do Ouvidor start at £1,002 pp on a similar basis.

The lead-in price of a week in the Azores is from just £582 pp (two sharing), staying at the Hotel Talisman on Sao Miguel. It includes direct scheduled flights on Saturdays (Gatwick) with SATA International, transfers and seven nights’ accommodation on a B&B basis. A £20 reduction per person applies to all bookings made before 29th February 2012 (when flying direct with SATA).

To order the new 2012 Sunvil Discovery Real Azores brochure, call 020 8758 4747. For further information, call 020 8758 4722 or visit www.sunvil.co.uk.

Harriet Subramanian - Freelance Writer

30 ALONG THE THAMES

Dress up anyoutfit with these fabulous gilets, available in a

range of colours

Full on glam - Frank Lyman Purple evening dress, Swish Boutique, MarlowLittle Black Dress with net and crystal neckline, Swish Boutique, Marlow No. 25 of Bourne End Catwalk, MaidenheadSwish Boutique, MarlowSwish Boutique, Marlowaccessories from Dents, No. 25 of Bourne End Catwalk, MaidenheadNo. 25 of Bourne End ASOS www.asos.comSwish Boutique, MarlowNo. 25 of Bourne End stylish Faux Fur coats from Marble, No. 25 of Bourne End Get glamourous this season with tops/dresses from Marble and Gina Bacconi, No.25 of Bourne End No. 25 of Bourne End

THE CLASSIC SHIFT DRESSSince its first appearance on the catwalk in 1957

the shift dress has become a staple of every woman'swardrobe. It's a versatile piece that can be dressed up or

dressed down and that's why it's such a perfect garment forday-to-night dressing. Here are some ideas how to transform

your simple shift into a glitzy party number:

Wear your shift dress with fashion tights e.g. fishnet or lace for the evening look

Add a splash of colour by wearing bright shoes - works greatwith dark colour dresses - or a nice, colourful clutch bag

Jazz it up with statement jewellery

Swap your office jacket for a sequinned cape orvelvet box jacket to get that dramatic

party look

6

5

4

1

2

3

6

5

11

12

14

18

21

4

87

109

2322

2019

17161513

Gorgeouswinter

essentials

7

8

2

ALONG THE THAMES 31

DRESS FOR YOUR SHAPE

We all come in different shapes andsizes. Just because the catalogue modelslook great in something it doesn't mean

you will too. It's important to dressaccording to your shape and accentuate

everything that you love about yourfigure instead of trying to hide thefaults. Be proud of your shape and

celebrate it in a trulyChristmas spirit!

One thing that everyChristmas wardrobe requires is

a knock-out party dress. Whetheryou are attending an office party, a

glamourous ball at the Ritz orChristmas dinner at friends' a house

we've found the inspiration andideas to help you make this

festive season your mostfashionable yet.

ACCESSORIES FOR PARTY SEASON

If you can't splash out on a new partyoutfit there are many ways to bring yourLittle Black Dress, that you had in thewardrobe for ages, to life or turn yourwork suit into a sophisticated piece of

eveningwear. Look out for:Fashion tights e.g. lace, studs, pattern

Sequinned evening clutch bags Skinny belts in patent leather

Sparkle encrusted heelsLarge cocktail rings Fashionable chokers

Oversized cuffs

CATWALK TRENDS FOR EVENING WEAR

Eye Catching Glitter

Bold Animal Prints

Red Alert

Vintage Lace

Black Maxi Skirt

9

10

11

12

13

14

16

17

18

19

20

1

23

Beautiful handmade

soaps in beautiful packaging,the ideal

Xmas present

2221

3

15

32 ALONG THE THAMES

It’s that time of year again. The annual office get-together and accepting more invites to nights out with the girls than you could ever possibly attend.

Christmas is great, but all that socialising can become stressful and a packed diary means less time to prepare for those all important dates. So, what you really need is an easy, effective and well-planned beauty routine that’s going to save you hours getting ready, guarantee you’ll look gorgeous and ensure that you’re the centre of attention - for all the right reasons.

Being transformed from dingy to dazzling doesn’t have to take long, but preparation is certainly essential.

Book hair appointments well in advance; it’s the busiest time of year for stylists and a marvellous mane is a must-have accessory. As great as it is to try out a new look, be cautious around the holiday season - hair disasters are sure to kill party spirit! Instead stick to a look that you know suits you and that’s easy to manage - leave the re-styles until the new year.

Cold winter days, centrally heated rooms and the usual bouts of seasonal flu can play havoc with your skin, leaving it dull, dry and lifeless. So it’s a good time to take notice of your skin type and invest in a routine that will leave it glowing.

Dry, sensitive types suffer more in the winter and need to be regularly moisturised. Apply a day cream in the morning and a ‘heavier’ night cream in the evening to keep moisture levels topped up.

Oily skin shouldn’t be neglected. It too needs moisturising - a ‘light’ product works best, and should be used twice daily.

Combination skin must be managed using a specially formulated range, in order to balance the dry and oily sections of the face.

Don’t forget the delicate eye area too - use an eye cream daily to avoid wrinkles.

With hair styled and skin

prepped, its time to find your perfect party make-up look.

It’s a good idea to take advantage of the free make-overs offered by most of the top beauty brands at your local department store. Having a specialist consultant offer their expertise when it comes to the way you apply your make-up can result in a great new look for you. After all, it’s so easy to become stuck in a make-up rut. And you get to try out the products before you buy.

Take notice of professional application tips and invest in the right tools - quality make-up brushes leave a great finish. Establishing what you want from your cosmetics means that you can find the right ones for you. Long lasting foundations, lengthening mascaras and vibrant lipsticks work wonders for evening, and will help keep you looking great into the small hours.

And finally, get your nails looking as polished as you are. Repair breakage and reinforce damage to the nail surface with a strengthening treatment. File and shape before applying lashings of colour. Or, for a really fashion-forward look, try the latest trend - nail wraps. They’re cute, creative, fun and perfect for a party.

With everything now in place to make you look fabulous, all that’s left to do is enjoy every minute of the best time of year and make this Christmas one to remember.

You’ve had a fantastic Christmas and a fabulous New Year but as great as all those champagne-filled parties were, the late nights, weeks of socialising and care-free indulgence will have taken its toll on your skin, hair and, not to mention, your waist line.

The seasonal vacation from watching the calories, skipping the daily skin-care routine and using heat styling tools excessively on your hair, leaves us all crying out in January for some products and a routine that will put back what the partying took out.

So, it’s definitely the right time to detox. Firstly, getting rid of the

telltale dark circles that have emerged after countless late nights will immediately create a fresher looking face. Use a specialised eye cream and remember to apply lightly, not rubbing or pulling at the delicate eye area.

Putting much needed moisture back in to dried-out skin, instantly reveals a more youthful and refreshed look. Alcohol consumption, harsh winter weather and centrally-heated rooms sap essential oils from the skin - with all three combining at this time of year, fine lines and wrinkles are sure to appear.

Refreshing the skin with a detoxifying and cleansing face mask is the first stage for post-party pampering. Thoroughly removing deeply ingrained make-up, lurking in the pores, will ensure a blemish-free complexion and a perfect base to absorb much needed moisture.

Gentle exfoliation removes blackheads and prevents the on-set of blemishes, but can be harsh on sensitive skin, so use a fine grain and apply carefully.

It’s easy to assume that oily skin doesn’t need to be moisturised, but it certainly does. Always choose specially formulated products that won’t be too rich for greasy skin.

Typically defined by having dry and oily parts, combination skin has a greasy T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), combined with flaky, dry cheeks and needs to be treated with special care. It’s worth investing in quality products that will address this problem without exacerbating either part of the skin. In extreme cases though, the only real solution is to treat sections separately.

Always speak to a specialist skin care consultant to find out what will work best for you. Expert advice and free samples that you can try at home will be sure to save you money in the long term.

It takes time to improve the look of tired, battered or blemished skin, but with perseverance you’re sure to look glowing.

Helen Taylor

ALONG THE THAMES 33

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

34 ALONG THE THAMES

Alexander’s Hair Surgery

Alexander Parsonshas been in the hairdressing industry for 30 years and has worked for a variety of major local salons, including hair salon manager for the “Champneys Health Resort” group for twelve of those years. During his varied career, Alexander has taken care of clients from all over the world with many different professions and lifestyles. “I think that I have just about seen or heard it all! However, from time to time, there are a few surprises!” Alexander is currently employed by Stoke Park Salon in Stoke Poges (www..stokepark.com) and his unique take on all matters hairdressing makes him very popular with his clientele.

Dear Santa.

We are now in party season and, invitations are coming in thick and fast. It’s time to get organised. You’ve just managed to bag the latest “must have” dress, waited in line for a Shamballa bracelet together with Jessica’s “Street Swagger” nail polish and a set of Mac lashes and you think you’re good to go, but, haven’t you forgotten something? .......OMG!

That’s right, YOUR HAIR!

How do you look fabulous in a flash? Well, luckily for you, help is at hand.

One of the best ways to create a quick “up do” is to use clip in hair pieces. Balmain’s “Hair Make Up” range (available in selected hair salons) is ideal for this. Can you fit most of your hair into a pony tail? Then you can use these versatile “clip-ins” and, voila, job done!

Other useful gadgets to create the latest “on trend” styles are; the Patrick Cameron “Halo” pad, (for very high chignons) and the “bouffant pad” (it looks like a croissant, only don’t eat it!) which gives just the right amount of lift without having to back-comb. Amazing!

Actually, wedding/prom/up do styles are very often quite similar. It’s usually how they are accessorised that makes it wedding or prom/party style. (Add a tiara, and its wedding, add a silk flower, and its prom/party.)

This season “on trend” styles for parties are; 1. gravity defying “up do’s” for

long hair where the sides, back and front are kept close to the head and then, as high as you can get on top! For this to look good, the style must follow the 45 degree rule. (An angle which forms a line from your chin to your ear, and then onto your crown). The overall look is then finished in a “not too neat” way.

2. for longer hair worn down, try crimping or waving. Babyliss make irons especially designed for this. However, if you use any form of direct heat, then you MUST

use a heat defence product and, up the number of conditioning treatments you have in order to keep your hair in tip top condition.

3. there is of-course, my personal favourite. Bouncy, wavy, flippy, curled styles which I find extremely sexy, but that’s another story!

4. for shorter styles, again think big! Texture and movement is the key here. Add a contrasting coloured clip in fringe hairpiece or accent hairpieces which can be cut to blend in with the length of your own hair. You could keep a collection of different colours to accessorise any outfit.

Try and keep the “bling” to a minimum though. Overdoing this can make you look a bit too much like a Christmas decoration! Not good! Also, please, please do not use those awful glitter spays. They get EVERYWHERE and are extremely annoying and difficult to get rid of, and no, he won’t think it’s attractive, especially when the glitter ends up on him!

So, there you have it. A simple guide to looking glamorous for any occasion. Oh, by the way, while we are on the subject of glamour, you may want to include a set of the latest GHD Scarlet stylers to your Christmas wish list. You could even go out with the bag it comes in! Only, don’t forget to leave your stylers at home!

Happy Holidays!

ALONG THE THAMES 35

25-27 The Parade, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5SBTel: 01628 528877 Email: Enquiries@No25ofBourneEnd.co.uk

10 minutes from Jct 4 of M40 and Jct8/9 of M4

www.No25ofBourneEnd.co.uk

No. 25 of Bourne End

s a l e

Sale on through

December and

JanuaryOpen Mon to Sat 9.30-5pm

Special Occasion outfi ts for Mother of the Bride/Groom plus Casual Wear & Accessories

BETHYBOOBEADS

Handmade Glass Beads

Taster Sessions: Make your own or choose for 100’s of mine.

Host a Beady Party: making or buying....

Call Kim

on

07887 848447

AFFORDABLE ADDICTIVE

FUN !!!

Bethyboobeads.com

25% OFF

SALEEXTRAVAGANZA

01628 5400559a High Street, Maidenhead, SL6 1JN

Looking for last minute gifts or that special outfi t- join us for a glass of wine and a browse.

on 18th December

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Chrristmas Tradditttioonns : Hanging a stocking by the fireA long time ago there lived a man who had three daughters. His wife had died some years earlier and now his daughters were of an age to be married. However, at that time in history, the prospective husband’s family would expect to receive a dowry – gifts and money – when their son married. The man was very poor and simply could not afford to do this.Each night his girls would wash and mend their clothes. To enable their stockings to dry they would hang them near the fire.A wealthy man called Nicholas, who lived in the village, had heard of the girls’ plight and one night called by the house after dark. Seeing an open window he sneaked in and put a bag of gold coins in each of the stockings. When the villagers heard of the widower’s good fortune, they too started hanging stockings by their fireplaces.Because the stockings were by the fire this lead to the belief that Santa came down the chimney in order to deliver his gifts.Nicholas did many more secret good deeds – he really was the original benevolent St Nicholas.

36 ALONG THE THAMES

A Journey of Ascent By Andy P Weller

This is a gripping family saga tracing nine generations of a family from the sixteenth century to the Great War: 350 years of social revolution, agricultural and industrial transformation.Andy Weller has masterfully rewrought the known facts of his long family history into a

sweeping historical novel embracing the Reformation, the English Civil War and the Industrial Revolution, populated by novelists, landowners, smugglers, highwaymen, farmers and industrialists, all with one aim in mind: survival in turbulent times. Weller has not rewritten history here: he has brought the reality of times past to vibrant life in a novel with huge appeal for anyone with an interest in English history from the perspective of the common man.

Why not curl up with one of these books over the Winter Months..?

The books on this page are from Book Guild Publishing

To order, please call 01202 665432(weekdays only)

or visit www.bookguild.co.uk to view our other titles

BOOK GUILD

PUBLISHING

Fiction

Children’s

For your chance to win one of 3 copies of “Magic City ” by Michael Dean, please send your name and address to competition@AlongtheThames.co.uk by 13th January, 2011..

Magic City.. By Michael Dean

Magic City is a comedy of errors set in West Germany in 1971. Marcus Himmelfahrt, unable to come to terms with his Jewish heritage and his sexual impotence, has no idea what to do with his life. He takes a job as an English teacher in Ludwigsburg, the Magic City of the title, intending to re-invent himself under a false name. On day one, he does something he shouldn’t in a graveyard and the police are called. His personal habits repeatedly upset his highly strung landlord. He is nevertheless a hit at the language school, and fast establishes a reputation as a ladies’ man. But can he live up to it?Meanwhile, as he wanders around unaware in dreamy innocence, he is framed, followed and shot at. He finally finds love only to be wrongly accused of rampant womanising. Against a background of retribution against a former Nazi and a robbery by the Baader-Meinhof gang, our still oblivious hero is hunted by drug dealers, by his terrifying employer, and by both the East and West German intelligence services.

As the forces against him gain momentum and menace, even the Magic City may not be enough to save him.

Harry Potter – A Christian ChronicleBy Sonia Falschi-RayEver since their earliest publication, controversy has surrounded the Harry Potter books in religious circles, with many believing that they promote un-Christian values and might encourage children to explore and even become

involved with the occult.Church of England priest Sonia Falaschi-Ray

believes quite the opposite to be true, and in Harry Potter: A Christian Chronicle she makes a compelling case for the books as enshrining, upholding and promoting Christian morality and spiritual truth.The book includes a comprehensive study guide, which allows readers to delve deeper into the Christian parallels and symbolism contained in Harry Potter, and by doing so deepen their own knowledge of the Bible and themselves.Whether you are a practising Christian, a Harry Potter fan, or both, this absorbing little book guarantees to entertain and provoke valuable debate.

ALONG THE THAMES 37

Breaking up is hard to do....Did you know that more couples break up in January than any other month in the year? This means that for many couples the beginning of the year is a make or break time for their relationship. Of the different groups: i.e. married women; single women; married men; single men; statistically married men are the most content. I am not sure we can hold empowerment of women responsible for all marriage break down though! We live in an age when there are more and more ways to communicate: becoming more and more complex and high tech, but we spend less time actually talking to each other. This may be more of a contributory factor.

I think a more important factor though is our own expectations of marriage. What expectations were you brought up to have about marriage and family life? What expectations are you bringing your children up to have? The generation of daughters now, have, I believe mixed messages about having choices that their mothers and grandmothers did not have. I still hear young women talk about

having it all – and as we know, do we not, that no one can have it all. And our sons what do they expect given that their female counterparts often do not know what they want and the pressure is on them to be more sensitive, thoughtful and talk about their feelings whilst at the same time be ‘the big earner’ and be able to protect their woman.

Successful relationships are built on openness, trust and honesty which involves both parties talking about their hopes and fears so that when the tricky patches come they are both invested in supporting each other through them rather than running away from the difficulties. Sometimes in life it’s best to call in the professionals, like when clouds of black smoke are coming from your car bonnet, your bathroom is flooded, or you are reduced to texting each other from the other side of the sofa. Couples sessions can offer a safe place to talk about what is working for them and what is not in an environment of acceptance.

Shelagh Wright

• Eating Disorders • Depression• Anxiety• Couple Issues

• Relationship Issues• Family Relationships• Communication Diffi culties• Adolescent Issues

Telephone: 01628 509041 Mobile:07956 495365Email: info@drshelagh.com . Web: www.drshelagh.com

Siena Court Broadway Maidenhead SL6 1NJ

DoctorShelaghDr Shelagh Wright DsysPsych

Systemic and Family Psychotherapist

Need help with:

Dr Shelagh is now on MarlowFM every Tuesday 9.30am to 12pmon the Health Show

38 ALONG THE THAMES38 ALONG THE THAMES

The Child Support Agency has published* the ten most unusual reasons for not paying child maintenance

Inherited Wealth not split on divorce

A recent divorce case has confirmed the general position that when wealth is inherited, it is not normally subject to the ‘equal shares’ rule that applies to assets built up during a marriage.

The case involved a couple who married in the UK in 1991 after an earlier marriage ceremony in Israel in 1987. The wife had inherited shares worth £700,000 at the time of their UK marriage. By the time the marriage had broken up and

the financial settlement was being negotiated, the shares were worth £57 million. Although neither of the couple had worked, on account of the income available to them from the wife’s shares, they lived modestly.

The husband’s assets were approximately £300,000, which consisted mainly of the family home, which was transferred to his sole name. He wished to sell that house and to purchase instead a property in Regent’s Park, valued

at an estimated £2 million. He also proposed to buy a second home in Israel for £450,000 and a new car costing £60,000, and claimed that he would require maintenance of more than £100,000 per year to fund his lifestyle – an amount which greatly exceeded the couple’s annual outgoings when they were together.

The wife made an offer of £5 million to her husband, but he sought an additional sum to enable him to accomplish his aims. The Court of Appeal rejected his claim, however, holding that the initial offer was based on a generous assessment of his needs.

Says Karen Newman, “In general, on the dissolution of a marriage, any assets brought into the marriage will not be subject to the ‘equal division’ principle that normally applies to assets created during the marriage. The achievement of a different division must normally be founded on compelling reasoning.”

1. I'm not paying another penny. I've already bought my child a pick-and-mix this week'.

2. I cannot pay for the children because he had to take his ostrich to the vet.

3. A footballer earning £4000 a week said the cost of keeping his Ferrari on the road meant he wasn't able to pay off his arrears.

4. One man said "I paid for her breast enhancement - and her new boyfriend is getting the benefit. I'm not paying

child maintenance on top." 5. A man rang the Agency to

say he couldn't be the child's father because the woman who filed the claim was too ugly.

6. Several have said it was against their human rights to have money deducted from their salaries.

7. 'I'm not liable to pay child support because I'm no longer the person named on the child's birth certificate" was the excuse of one man - after he had changed his name by deed poll.

8. Hundreds respond to arrears notices saying "the dog ate my wage slips and letters from the CSA".

9. A father who had undergone a sex change becoming a woman argued she should not have to pay because she is not the man who fathered the children

10. And finally, another claimed he didn't officially exist any more because he was on the 'witness protection scheme'. He wasn't and was made to pay.

* Sourced from the Family Law Week

Contact Karen Newman for advice on a range of issues including divorce, separation, child maintenance, financial settlements, living together agreements and pre marital agreements.

ALONG THE THAMES 39

21 Marlow Road, Maidenhead SL6 7AA www.colemans.co.uk

Marriage on the rocks, but can’t afford a solicitor?

Think again

To arrange a £50 fixed-fee initial meeting, please call 01628 631051 or email karen.newman@colemans.co.uk or elizabeth.miles@colemans.co.uk

Come and talk to one of our specialist solicitors about our structured fees, tailored to your financial circumstances.

The other day I was helping my Eldest Son prepare some kind of CV. It made me decide to dust off my own one and take a look. Boy was I something

back then. Or at least my ability to sell myself was. Either way I had done some pretty impressive things.

That got me wondering what my CV would say now. What kind of job could I apply for? I compiled a list and was pleasantly surprised to see that I was in fact qualified for many things.

If anyone was looking for an experienced chauffeur – I was their man. I can drive miles whilst maintaining professional silence or if required, give appropriate responses. I can easily apply for a job as a short order chef – it’s not a problem to cook individual dishes at different times and to maintain a level of cheerfulness and creativity. I could also be a personal shopper – I just love whizzing up and down the aisles searching for bargains.

I would have no problem working in a large commercial laundry. Surrounding myself with piles of washing and sorting through odd socks is my specialty. And as for ironing – well – give me a good steam iron and I could press forever.

I would also be very good working in politics. I am particularly good at arbitration and may even be able to apply for a position with the Peace Corps. Working in a financial organisation may not be such a good idea as I often find it difficult to get money back that I have lent.

Perhaps I could be a counsellor? Sorting out emotional issues is a regular occurrence for me. Or even an event organiser? Planning parties is a great skill of mine.

What a brilliant CV. I must print it out now - if only I could get the printer to work.Vanessa Woolley

It’s My Job

Answers page 56

1 Blue Harvest

2 $3,000

3 Love Hurts

4 NotTonight, Josephine

5 It had to be a Jew

6 The Body

7 Dangerous Days

8 The Greatest GIft

9 Rope Burns

10 Black Mask

Annie Hall Pretty Woman

Basic Instinct Pulp Fiction

Blade Runner Return of the Jedi

It’s a Wondeful Life Some Like it Hot

Million Dollar Baby Stand by Me

Above is a list of titles that were considered or used at some point during the production

of 10 famous movies. Choosing from below, can you name the movies?

Titles used in Films??

40 ALONG THE THAMES

Hi my name is Tony Silver and over the last 16 months I have discovered the power of both Social media and networking. I found myself both banging on the door of 50 and out of work, not a good combination.

Like a lot of people in business I had a LinkedIn profile but rarely used it, Thought Twitter was a “Yoof culture” thing, and had no idea what blogging was. Now I use LinkedIn and twitter in my job and having regularly done a blog before finding work. I aim to re-establish it in the coming weeks.

Using the above social media outlets and networking kept me involved in the local business community despite having no job, in fact it got me a reputation which increased across the area, lead to various opportunities, and ultimately a job. This job is enhanced by use of networking and social media, so those months of learning have paid off.

So if I can learn how to use Social Media and Networking to help me then I am sure that people in similar situations can do the same. I was promoting myself, but that could just as well have been a company. I aim in this column to help where I can, with hints and tips and examples, so that the readers can see where it may help them.

Social media and networking is fun but before we are ready to get out and change things, we must plan first. This is one of the many mistakes I made and learnt from my journey, that I hope I can prevent you from copying. There can be costs related to both these activities and both certainly involve time, so let’s not waste time or money. If you are in business then these activities need to go into your marketing plan and be budgeted for.

So the big question is why are you doing it? I have often asked people at networking events why they are there. Many have an idea but can be vague, “to meet someone..,

to meet anyone who…, these are not good reasons.A simple Networking plan is as follows

1. Talk to 10 people2. Collect 7 cards3. Arrange 1-2-1 meetings with 2 or 3 people4. Get the relationship to a point where

you may do business or they are happy to send people in your direction

Oh yes I forgot to mention, it’s all about relationship building, both social media (online)and networking (face to face), so start that conversation but do LISTEN

Join us for an informal gathering of like minded business professionals, while having a cup of coffee. Open to both men & women. NO JOINING FEE.

Share ideas - exchange information - join our community

Marlow - 9.30 - 11.30 am Danesfield House Hotel on 2nd Thursday of the month

Maidenhead - 9.00 - 11am Temple Golf Club on 3rd Thursday of the month

Business Biscotti promotes working in a way that is .flexible, mobile,

collaborative and digitally in touch

For more information or to join us on line visit

www.businessbiscotti.co.uk

ALONG THE THAMES 41

Property investment is one of those topics that seems to be talked about constantly. Most of us know someone with a property success story. People with a good portfolio, built up over time, all set to retire to a sun drenched Costa without a care in the world.Fantastic, where do I sign up?

But unfortunately we’ve also heard of the “buy to let horror stories”.

So is the real question.... “is property investment, a fast road to riches or a short cut to stress and misery?”

The short answer is it’s neither. Property investment is like most worthwhile things in life, rewarding when done well. But only if you take the time and care to get it right.So what is important?

Location: This may seem obvious, but location is King. Buying in the right place is hugely important if you want to ensure growth in value. This is key to a successful investment strategy. I would rather have a one bedroom flat on the river front in Docklands than a couple of three bedroom flats in Hull. The value of the Docklands property will always be more stable, and the prospect of capital growth is much more likely. These are important

criteria for successful investing.Forget the idea that you would

never consider living in Central London, millions of other people do. So demand in specific locations will always be high. Infrastructure and communications links are important when considering investment. Proximity to the nearest train stations or motorway junctions are paramount.

Suitability: It’s important to remember that you are not buying a home. Tenants have different priorities to owner occupiers. For example, gardens are not always attractive to tenants. “Will you be expecting me to mow that?” is a question I have often been asked, usually followed by “I’ll need you to supply a mower then, we haven’t got one”. However, new build flats with public areas maintained by service contractors can make excellent investments.

Letting & Management: On completion you will be looking for good tenants who will pay the rent on time, keep your place nice, and won’t cause a nuisance.

The four keys to this are:

• Referencing• Inventory• Inspection• Planning.

Referencing should always be done through a professional agency.

An inventory is essential, preferably a video inventory. If you do have a problem tenant, anything other than visual evidence is your word against theirs. Inspections and evidence are essential.

I once saw a rental property where a leaking washing machine went unrepaired for 18 months. The kitchen floor beneath the machine was non existent, it had just rotted away. Regular visits will avoid this sort of problem.

When signing an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement as a landlord, consider the end date carefully. A six month agreement that starts in the second half of June will end near Christmas, not an easy time to find new tenants. This could result in a void period, and lost income.

Retaining a diligent managing agent will cut out stress and pay for itself over time.

The Ten Year Plan: Once you have achieved your first successful investment, why stop? By continuing to leverage your equity it is possible to grow your portfolio. Early retirement then becomes an achievable option.

Mike Beckley

For details of the next free Midas Property Schools in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire please contact Mike on 07961 825814 or mike.beckley@midasestates.com

Property Investment is it good, bad or ugly?

42 ALONG THE THAMES

One in three workers puts in nine to eleven hours every day

1.CIPD, Absence Management, 2011

It comes as no surprise this month that almost half of workers in the UK work well over eight hours every day, over a third put in nine to eleven hours and a tenth work over eleven hours. This evidence of long working hours is revealed by the latest global survey findings from Regus, the world’s largest provider of flexible workplaces, canvassing the opinions of over 2700 business people across the UK.

It appears that pressure on working hours has become more acute because of the economic downturn and growing concerns over job security, with staff eager to get the job done whatever the personal cost and be seen as productive by their employer. For many, the working day is not over when they leave the office. Over two-fifths of workers (43%) take work home to finish in the evening at least three times a week.

Celia Donne, Regional Director at Regus said: “As the UK struggles with ongoing economic difficulties, firms of all sizes are under immense pressure in a difficult market and this often leads to staff working even longer hours than usual. However, the CIPD reports that workload is the top cause for stress, and our new report finds that the distinction between work and home life is becoming increasingly blurred. The long-term effects of over-work could be damaging both to workers’ health and to overall productivity as workers drive themselves too hard and become disaffected, depressed or even physically ill.”

It is quite common to meet many local residents who work remotely, often bumping into each other at the local coffee shop. Interestingly, the Regus report shows that remote workers tend to work longer than

employees who are based in a fixed office location, suggesting that the benefit of a shorter commute often translates into higher productivity. 14% of remote workers put in over eleven hours per day and two-thirds (62%) take work home regularly.

The upside of this is that it is widely recognised that flexible and remote working also leads to increased job satisfaction, commitment and improved work-life balance, so it seems that avoiding a lengthy and stressful commute delivers multiple advantages for employer and employee alike.

Dr Clare Kelliher, Professor of Work and Organisation at Cranfield School of Management, adds: “Our research at Cranfield has also found that work has become more intense for many workers in recent years, and that in particular those that work remotely often put in longer hours. In some cases, workloads are such that staff have no choice but to work extra hours to get the job done. In the case of remote workers, who are working either at home or from a location closer to home, their days are more productive because they have avoided what may be a long and stressful commute but also because they are removed from the day-to-day distractions of the workplace which allows them to be more focused. We have also found that many workers from the flexible and remote workforce are grateful to their employers for allowing them a degree of choice in where and when they do their work, and so reciprocate by putting in extra effort.”

Despite another economic downturn looming it appears that British workers do pull their weight. If you are struggling with stress there are many places where you can seek support. One of the more recently publicised is a meditation programme, called Mindfulness, run by The Mental Health Foundation. For more information visit www.bemindful.co.uk .

Harriet Subramanian - Freelance Writer

ALONG THE THAMES 43

The Habit of Being Successful

Everyone at work today faces new and seemingly endless challenges. Developing the ability to adapt

and cope with these unrelenting changes comes from really knowing your strengths, your preferences

and motives, where these qualities can best be applied, and what you want from your work and career.

This workshop will help you to make the right decisions about your career.

Topics covered:

> How will I navigate my career to be more successful?

> What will help me get promoted tomorrow?

> How do I get to the place I want to get to and who will help me get there?

You will learn:

How to write your own career map How to handle challenging situations

Quick ways to achieve your objectives Tools to be more results oriented

Tips on ‘manage your manager’ and a little bit more about managers and their impact on your career

A workshop that will impact your career by Tamar

Making a Resolution!

DATES FOR NEXT WORKSHOPS

Monday 23rd & Wednesday 25th January 2012

from 6.30pm - 9.30pm

VENUE

River Road Taplow, Berkshire. (Free parking available)

BOOKING

Early Bird places available at £125 until 31st December 2011 (regular fee: £175)

Further details and registration at: tamar@leadersandlegends.co.uk

Please note that numbers are limited to 12, to allow maximum attention to all participants.

About Tamar

Tamar is a Business Adviser and Executive coach (ICF accredited). She has managed her own team as HR Director,

helped in European M&As and in the last few years has become an expert in Customer Loyalty & Relationships.

Tamar delivers this workshop in ESCP Business School with 100% recommendation score including feedback

such as: “Inspiring”, “Thinking out of the box”, “food for thought”, “it works!” Tamar also mentors HRD to become

Trusted Advisors. Tamar has her own consultancy company: www.leadersandlegends.co.uk, she works with

individuals and with organisations on personal development, relationship management, risk management for

business relationships, executive coaching, helping make the right impact. Tamar lives in Berkshire and her hobbies

include painting, photography, yoga, sculling and coxing.

Find out more about Tamar at http://uk.linkedin.com/in/tamarmeshoulam

44 ALONG THE THAMES

Have a doggy friendly ChristmasPresents wrapped and

underneath the tree, relatives and friends a-plenty and lots of special food – that’s certainly what Christmas looks like in our house. For many households, there is also a fair pinch of extra stress, too!

For households with dogs it’s worth sparing a thought for our canine friends as Christmas can be an extremely stressful and anxious time for them, often going unnoticed by owners.

Ensure that presents wrapped and left underneath the tree aren’t harmful to dogs: avoid leaving chocolate there or scented items such as beauty products. A wrapped object with scent is a very tempting opportunity for the dog to use their nose to sniff it out and then their teeth to rip it open – what fun! It’s advisable, where possible, to keep your dog away from the Christmas tree when not supervised.

As enjoyable as Christmas food is to us, it really is not appropriate for dogs. It’s okay to feed a small amount of turkey fat or perhaps dilute some stock in a KONG chew toy and place in the freezer as an extra special treat, however, rich

human foods often found on the Christmas table can be dangerous to dogs, causing bloat, hyperactivity and diarrhoea. They have no concept of the time of year so won’t miss not having their own Christmas dinner and you’ll avoid a smelly dog, too!

Many dogs are afraid of loud noises such as fireworks so think twice about crackers on the table. There are dog-friendly crackers available, without the snap and with dog toys inside, which make a useful alternative to keyrings and plastic tie clips! Alternatively, simply remove the snap from your regular crackers so as not to startle the dog.

Christmas is an ideal time to go through your dog’s toys and throw out any worn or damaged ones, invest in some new ones and wrap these up especially for your dog to unwrap on the big day. There are plenty of Christmas products available especially for dogs such as rawhide Christmas cards and advent calendars, so even your dog can enjoy in the festivities!

If your dog is not used to lots of people or children, a house full of people may not be the dog’s idea of a very happy Christmas. You can help your dog by asking visitors not to pet or fuss the dog when they first arrive and ask them to throw a few tasty treats towards the dog. This

will help teach the dog that visitors bring good things. To prevent your dog getting over excited, put them in a quiet area or room with a food-stuffed chew toy and classical music playing to help them remain calm.

Finally, try not to spend excessive amounts of time with your dog during the Christmas season. For many owners who normally work during the week, Christmas sees them spending long periods of time with the dog, which is great fun, however, when you return to work the dog is left alone again. Many dogs find this difficult to readjust to. Keep your daily routines: your dog still needs exercise, stimulation, play and attention even on Christmas day. Spend some time perhaps visiting friends away from your house or exploring the Christmas sales so that the dog gets used to being on their own.

With a little thought, having a dog does not need to add to the stresses of Christmas and can indeed help make it a time to remember .

Jez Rose

For more information on dog training and behaviour www.JezRose.co.uk

ALONG THE THAMES 45

As the evenings draw in, and the temperature drops – it is clear that winter is fast approaching. Many of us will be taking time away from work at some point over the festive period, and what better way to escape than to enjoy some time together with your dog in the great outdoors.

We are lucky here at The Real Dog Company as we spend days searching out the best places to walk and run with your dogs around Berkshire, so here are our top places to visit and our favourite items to take with us:

Top Places “Along the Thames”River Walking from Maidenhead

to Cookham – this is a delightful stretch along the Thames that takes in one of the widest parts of the river around our area, and allows stunning views of Cliveden House. If you fancy seeing Cliveden at a closer vantage point then hop across the river and park in the National Trust car park and walk amongst the grounds. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the Ornamental Gardens. There are also no “Dog Bins” so make sure you take some bags and something to carry them in – just in case.

Marlow – from the town centre out toward Henley offers a great walk that hugs the river. Heading from the town centre towards Bourne End allows for more open fields for the dogs to dash around. Both routes, if you double back allow for some great coffee shops with outside seating to be hunted out afterwards in Marlow’s High Street.

Henley to Shiplake – As you exit the main strip in Henley and over the weir the path opens up into fields and

makes for a great walk to Shiplake. A little further and Sonning appears with some quaint little pubs that serve coffee, and ale. Leave plenty of time if you are walking back to Henley!

Top KitWinter days are still lots of fun

so we always carry with us a collapsible water bowl – this

can be used along the trail or if you stumble into a Pub and the dog also needs a refreshing drink in the warmth. You can carry this or let the dog carry it with their own little harness rucksack….that way they keep fit & healthy for a little Christmas dinner treat with the family!

safety light – we always connect this to our dogs as dusk falls so we can keep close tabs – if you want

that extra little warmth then a high viz jacket makes them really stand out!

Not one for the trail but a real life saver are the boot liners and seat covers that we use as the going under foot gets that little muddier. Until they reach the shower at home, our best friends carry a lot of mud into the cars! When travelling make sure that your dogs are always safe, secure and not wandering around in the car – and make sure your interior is safe from all that mud!

Any questions on the routes, or safety of your dog on the trail or car contact us and for more details of walks and to download maps visit www.ordnancesurveyleisure.co.uk/leisure/

Winter Wonderland: walking & travelling in safety

46 ALONG THE THAMES

MDM Technik was born in 2009, Mark David McManus - started the business when he was faced with the unpleasantness of redundancy from Bentley.

After getting over the initial shock of being out of work, Marks get up and go attitude proved to be a key ingredient to starting his own business.

With over 11 years of experience working for Audi & Bentley it was without question that MDM Technik would specialise

in the VAG range of cars.MDM Technik started as a mobile

business forging a reputation of quality & building a client base for 2 years, from that MDM Technik has grown, become Ltd and is now based in Medmenham, Near Marlow for over 1 year with 2,500 sqft of premises.

MDM Technik Ltd prides itself in honesty and quality without main dealer prices. MDM Technik Ltd use main dealer diagnostic equipment which enables them to offer the same service as main dealers but

not with the same price tag.Since starting the company MDM

Technik Ltd has branched into other avenues such as being authorised agents for Revo (performance engine remapping), Milltek (performance exhaust systems) and Forge (performance components) to supply and fit their products.

Telephone 01491 412416 or mobile 07883 475336

Save money on motoring

Spot the Difference

MDM Technik

Answers page 56

ALONG THE THAMES 47

48 ALONG THE THAMES

YOUR car is likely the second biggest purchase you ever make – so it’s vital you protect that investment. Just as you wouldn’t let a leaky roof or broken guttering fester on your house, you need to pay regular attention to your car to keep it in good working order too.And it’s not just about a bucket and sponge. Simple maintenance tasks can preserve your car’s life and its value at resale time. The difference between a car in ‘excellent’ and ‘below average’ condition can be £1,000, according to trade valuation experts, so it really pays to look after your motor. Here are some practical tips to help you save money in the long run.

Well Oil Be : It’s amazing how many motorists don’t even know how to check their oil, let alone remember to top it up. However, failing to do so will have dire consequences. Check it fortnightly, making sure the car is on level ground, engine cold and the level is between minimum and maximum. Check coolant levels too and get any abnormal noises or poor performance problems checked by an expert.

Air We Go: Air-conditioning needs regular attention. Topping up the system with gas and lubricating it will cost around £70 at a garage and should be done every two years. This will stop unpleasant smells and bacteria forming. Poorly serviced systems have to work harder, putting undue strain on the engine.

At Your Service: The recession saw many motorists skip servicing to try and save money. This really is a false economy. Sticking to your car’s maintenance schedule will ensure it’s working properly, prevent failures and prove it’s been looked after at resale time. Keep every receipt and old MOT, as well as a stamped-up service book for the next owner.

Fuel’s gold: It might look like a costly alternative to regular fuel, but the AA says a few tanks of super unleaded can help preserve your engine. Using three tanks of super in succession will clean injectors and allow the engine to run more efficiently, helping preserve its working life.

Tyred Out: The penalty for driving on illegal tyres (under 1.6mm of tread across the central three quarters) is a fine and three points. Inspect your car’s boots weekly for damage, remove stones in the tread and look for signs of uneven

wear. Pressures should be checked monthly too preserving the tyre’s life, and your fuel economy.

Easy Does It: The way you drive can dramatically affect how long your car will last. Driving with care, avoiding harsh acceleration and hard braking will reduce wear on components. It’s also worth thinking, do you need to make that trip? Lower mileage cars are worth more.

Polished off: Cleaning your car regularly with quality products is the best way to preserve its value. Glass’s Guide says a comprehensive clean can add £600 to a car’s value.

Hose Down: A vital part of the car cleaning procedure is to hose the car down before washing. This removes fine particles of grit that can scratch the paintwork as you wash. These scratches will make your paint look dull and hazy, putting off future buyers.

Wheel-ie good idea: Invest in a quality wheel cleaning brush and wheel cleaner to shift stubborn stains. Apply a coat of wheel wax which will stop future grime taking hold. Used car buyers love alloy wheels, but only if they’re in good condition.

By James Baggott, editor of Car Dealer Magazine (CarDealerMag.co.uk)

cally

ALONG THE THAMES 49

Codeword

Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box.

Answers page 56

50 ALONG THE THAMES

Policing mattersDisplay and you will pay

As the dark evenings are upon us I am using this opportunity to reiterate how important car security is. Only yesterday one of my officers walked around a local car park and found three sat nav’s and several other items on display. Theft from vehicles is still a problem in this area and I would like to offer the following advice:Trust locks not luck – double check that your vehicle is secure.Keep the keys safe – and out of sight especially in your home.Perfect parking – if you have a garage then use it - or try to park in a well lit location.Display and you will pay – don’t tempt thieves – take your belongings with you.Be alarmed – this could deter thieves.Sat Nav – would you be lost without it? – Remove it and don’t just hide it in the vehicle – also make sure you wipe the sucker mark off the windscreen.Your number’s up – number plates can easily be removed – secure them with security screws.If you would like to know more about vehicle security or your local neighbourhood team then you can visit us at www.thamesvalley.police.uk.

Inspector Ray WilksThe views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Thames Valley Police

ALONG THE THAMES 51

Neil Shaw, ex-florist and house steward at historic National Trust property, Basildon Park, reveals his top tips for festive foliage arrangements, as he commences his December ‘dressing’ of the house’s magnificent show rooms. Many of the natural materials that Neil works with can be found in the average garden, which makes this aspect of Christmas preparation extremely easy on the pocket!

Neil says:‘When decorating the home

for Christmas with fresh foliage, many people think of using just the traditional favourites of holly and ivy. I always include these in my own arrangements, but there are many other evergreens that make delightful compositions, such as laurel which is very glossy, yew, evergreen oak, and winter flowering shrubs such as Vibernum tinus with its star-shaped white flowers and small blue-black fruits, which are just beginning to bloom now. Popular variegated garden shrub Euonymus with its dark leaves and white/pink stripes also looks fabulous in any arrangement.

You can even make use of the smaller branches you trim off your Christmas tree, thus avoiding any waste, and introducing a fragrant pine aroma to wreaths and table displays.

Add splashes of colour with holly berries, rose hips, and one of my favourites, the densely-packed fiery red fruits and foliage of Pyrancantha, which looks really stunning in the home. If the birds haven’t already eaten all the Cotoneaster, then this too is an excellent choice, as its slim berry-laden branches are very pliable, and easy to work with.

To get the best out of any arrangement, make sure all foliage is cut at the very last minute before using it. Cut all stems with a sharp knife, on a slanting angle; this will expose a larger surface

area of stem, allowing the foliage and flowers to absorb more water. Then ‘condition’ the stems by plunging them into buckets of water for between 12 and 24 hours.

If you’re using flowers bought from a florist, make sure these too are re-cut as above and ‘conditioned’, because the stems will probably have sealed themselves since they were first trimmed. If using carnations, remember to cut the stems between the knobbly woody nodes. If you cut or break on the node itself, the water cannot be drawn up into the stem.

If you are using water absorbent floral foam to create your arrangements, make sure that the foam is well soaked. To do this simply fill a washing up bowl with water and allow your foam to float on the surface until it starts to sink. When the top of the foam block is level with the water, take it out. This sounds rather arduous, but in fact only take a couple of minutes. Place the foam in water-proof trays, and don’t forget to check it daily, adding water to prevent it drying out completely.

Never be tempted to speed up the process of soaking the foam by pushing it under water, as this only creates air locks and the foam will remain dry in the centre. Don’t re-use foam either as bacteria builds up in the holes left by a previous arrangement which will be harmful to future arrangements!

Finally, I’d just like to say: Be Bold! Don’t hold back, but experiment with the different leaves and flowers in your garden. Don’t just dress your front door, but think about placing arrangements on window sills, mantelpieces, dining room tables and the backs of chairs. By tying stems onto twine or rope using florist’s wire, you can decorate your staircase too, which will look terrific!

Top Tips on how to create beautiful & longlasting festive arrangements

Brunel University gives Love In A Box

this Christmas

Staff and students at Brunel University have been frantically wrapping shoeboxes in festive paper and generously gathering

gifts with which to fill them, then sending them to underprivileged

children through Mustard Seed Relief Mission’s Love In A Box campaign. Simple gifts that most children take

for granted will help put a smile on the face of many children this Christmas – skipping ropes, dolls and crayons,

hats, scarves and gloves, soap, toothbrushes and flannels, picture-

books, notebooks and pens. No flashy mobile phones or expensive games

consoles on Christmas wish lists here, but simply the things that every child

should have the right to – warmth, hygiene, education and happiness.

Mustard Seed Relief Mission has been running the Love In A Box campaign for around 20 years now and distribute on average 42,000 boxes to children each year, especially to those in orphanages

in the Ukraine and Moldova. “To see a child who has nothing enjoy opening their one and only present is

priceless,” said Lisa Smart, the charity’s Director. “The warmth, gratitude

and love they show us is wonderful. The charity will continue to grow and with kind, considerate and continued

support from many organisations such as Brunel University, we will

work as hard as we can to improve the lives of many children.”

Brunel has been supporting Mustard Seed since 2004, with Sue Hepworth

of The Chaplaincy co-ordinating the University’s efforts in conjunction

with the Students’ Union. Last year Brunel amassed a record number of 268 filled boxes, and hope to

collect even more this year.“The amassing of the boxes is of course great fun,” said Sue, “but what moves me most is people’s

engagement with the vision. We know that the children we are thinking of

have nothing, by our standards. Their pains and losses are in some ways unimaginable to us. Yet people do

imagine, and empathise, and reach out in this most practical and tangible

of ways. Both staff and students are consistently so generous.”

To find out more about the charity, visit www.msrm.org.uk

52 ALONG THE THAMES

LOCAL CLUB EVENTS:

Maidenhead Over 30’s Disco partiesevery Friday, 8.30pm - 1am, Bird Hill Golf Club, Drift Road, off Hawthorn Hill SL6 3ST

Maidenhead Camera Clubevery Tuesday, Cox Green Community Centre, 630861Maidenhead Archaeology society meet last Wednesday of the month, WRVS, Maidenhead, t: 630 839

WEDDING FAIRS/OPEN DAYS

MacDonald Compleat Angler - Guides for Brides Wedding Fair8th January, 11am - 3pm01628 496800

Bisham Abbey Weddng Fair22nd January, 11am01628476911

Grovefield House Hotel29th January 11am - 3pm01628 603131

Taplow House Hotel5th February, 11am, 01628 670056

THEATRE AND MUSICAL EVENTS

Carols on the Causeway, Marlow19th December, 6.30pmTheatre Royal, Windsor - Pantomime - Sleeping Beauty7th December to 8th January

Maidenhead Pantomime - Treasure Island14th - 29th December Desborough Suite, Town Hall, MaidenheadCarols by Candlelight25th December, 6.30pmHoly Trinity Church, CookhamThe Forum Players - The Tooth Fairy by Anthony Deacon21st, 22nd and 28th January, info@forumplayers.com or Leigh on 01628 523291 to order tickets

Kenton Theatre - See adjoining pagewww.kentontheatre.co.uk

BUSINESS/NETWORKING EVENTSBusiness Biscotti - MarlowEvery second Thursday 9.30 - 11.30amDanesfield House Hotel, Marlowwww.businessbiscotti.co.ukThames Valley Business Womens GroupEvery second Monday 7pm for 7.30pm startCIM, Cookham, www.TVBWG.comBusiness Biscotti - Maidenhead Every third Thursday 9 - 11amTemple Golf Club, Maidenheadwww.businessbiscotti.co.uk

SPECIAL EVENTS

Lions Swimaton7th January, For details: 623263 or chrisfilmore@aol.com

Stanley Spencer Gallery1st April - 15th January 2012High Street, Cookham

ICE RINKS - Hyde Park Winter Wonderlanduntil 3rd January, 10am - 10pmwww.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/Natural History Museumuntil 8th January, 11am - 10pm weekdays, 10am - 10pm weekendswww.nhm.ac.uk/

Hampton Court Palaceuntil 8th Januarywww.londonicerinks.com/

Tower of Londonuntil 8th Januarywww.londonicerinks.com/

Somerset Houseuntil 22nd January, 10am -10.30pmwww.somersethouse.org.uk

Windsor on iceuntil 6th January, Alexandria Gardenswww.viewlondon.co.uk

The Grovefieldd House Hotel01628 603131Party NightsFriday 16th,Saturday 17th, and Friday 23rd DecemberJoin a party, bring a group or host a private event.Skool Disco BuffetThursday, 15th December£29.95 per personElves WorkshopSunday, 18th DecemberA wonderful chance for your children to make a Christmas gift in our special workshop,followed by lunch.Karaoke Evening Buffet DinnerThursday, 22nd December, £29.95 per personChristmas EveSaturday, 24th DecemberIf you are staying with us, or want to start your festive celebrations with family and friends, our buffet will get the festive mood going nicely!Adults: £39.95, Children under 12: £19.95Christmas Day LunchSunday, 25th DecemberA traditional Christmas Day luncheon served in our restaurant.Adults: £65.00, Children under 12: £19.95New Year’s EveSee in 2012 in style with a glass of bubbly on arrival and a sumptuous four-course dinner,followed by dancing as we ring out the old and bring in the new.

Key to Events: One-off eventsWeddingsCharity Events Clubs for Adults Theatre & Music Business Meetings

ALONG THE THAMES 53

Wednesday 14th December 11am and 2pm.Blunderbus Theatre Company presents

THE VERY SNOWY CHRISTMASIt’s the night before Christmas and Big Mouse and Little

Mouse are putting up decorations. Little Mouse scampers out to search for holly, but finds big white flakes falling from the sky. “Goodness me!” he cries. “The sky is

coming undone!” Suitable for children from 3-7 years old.

Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd December 2pm. Friday 23rd December 6.30pm. and

Saturday 24th December 2pm.OXFORDSHIRE THEATRE COMPANY

PRESENTS JUNGLE BOOK. Adapted from the Rudyard Kipling Stories By Neil Duffield

A Family Show of the thrilling and heart- warming story of Mowgli, the boy brought up by wolves. Educated by Baloo, the bear and Bagheera, the

panther, and hunted by the great tiger, Shere Khan, Mowgli must learn the laws of the jungle and become

a young man with the confidence to walk alone.

Thursday 12th January 2012 8pm.HENRY BLOFELD – SHAKEN, Not STIRRED

Henry Blofeld is one of the world’s best loved cricket commentators. He enjoyed an aristocratic upbringing,

including an Eton and Cambridge education, during which he displayed exceptional cricketing skills. Following a near-fatal accident he took up sports journalism and is best known for his descriptive

performances on BBC Radio 4’s Test Match SpeciaMonday 30th January 7.30pm

THEATRE UNLIMITED PRESENTS ‘STALIN’S FAVOURITE’

DIRECT FROM THE NATIONAL THEATREIn 1941, the huge popularity of his poem, ‘Wait For Me’, projected Konstantin Simonov into the literary stratosphere of the Soviet Union. But what price

becoming Stalin’s favourite writer? Years later, now ageing and unwell, Simonov looks back on a lifetime as part of Stalin’s Soviet elite and confronts his demons.

‘Theatre Unlimited’s production premieres at the National Theatre in November and this will be its first tour.

Friday, 3rd February 8pm.Shappi Korsandi

Me and My Bother In Our Pants, Holding HandsStand –up comedy. Shappi is one of the hottest young comedians in the country and has appeared on Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and

Have I Got News for You. Fresh from her Edinburgh Fringe Success, the Kenton is pleased to welcome Shappi back.

All tickets £16.

Please mention Along the Thames Magazine when booking.

PLEASE CONTACT THE BOX OFFICE MONDAY TO FRIDAY 11AM - 5PM, SATURDAY 10AM - 1PM

01491 575698OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR ALL PRODUCTIONS AT

www.kentontheatre.co.ukNew Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BP

Free Parking available in Waitrose car park after 6pm

If you would like your event advertised contact 01628 771

419 / 07711 887107 or e: office@AlongTheThames.co.uk

Use the QR code (with your phone) opposite to go

straight to our website.

Kenton Theatre

Interested in the Theatre?Enjoy days out?

Select-a-Show is for youRegular exclusive luxury excursions to Matinees and Evening performances in The West End and Regional theatres.

Visits to interesting gardens, stately homes and

Exclusively guided London walks.

● Supper Performances ● Special lunches ● Special afternoon teas ● Luxury coaches

Contact Diana Yates for the latestprogramme and application form

Phone: 01494 890010Email: diana@select-a-show.com

Group visits to Theatres and places of Cultural Interest

MARKETSSpecial Christmas Market22nd December, 9am - 4pmMaidenhead High StreetMaidenhead Produce Market1st and 3rd Thursday of the monthMaidenhead High StreetThe Farmers Market, , 2nd Sunday of the month from 10am, Grove Street Car Park

54 ALONG THE THAMES

AriesMarch 21 - April 20

Your ruler, the energetic and fiery Mars is in practical Virgo and is now travelling through the work, fitness

and wellness sector of your chart. You feel inspired and motivated to take better care of yourself. Adventure beckons and the eclipse on the 10th gets you to view the future with much broader vision. Assertive Mars,

your ruling planet, stays in hard working Virgo all month demanding that you review all your projects and goals. Now is the time to finish off what needs finishing and

discard what is no longer current. While this new pace may seem unsettling at first, you’ll soon get used to it.

TaurusApril 21 - May 21

December will be a transformational month for Taurus. Venus, your ruler, is in practical Capricorn where powerful Pluto resides. Several areas of

your life will come under intense scrutiny now. The eclipse on the 10th brings your finances into the

spotlight and new ways of earning money may come to light. The New Year starts with good fortune, as abundant Jupiter remains in your sign for another

five months. You’ll also be longing to broaden your horizons, open your mind and examine things you

never imagined. Travel to far away places will be on the agenda and creativity is also in focus this month.

Gemini May 22 - June 22

Your ruling planet Mercury will turn direct on the 14th, this is good news as all communications and plans that have been delayed can now start moving again. Energetic Mars in practical Virgo is stirring up your home and domestic life and new and creative ways of working can now emerge. The New Year begins with Mercury, your ruler, in open minded Sagittarius. Relationships are your focus for this month and as the winged messenger moves into down to earth Capricorn on the 8th things could

get serious! You really can make constructive changes that should benefit your year ahead.

CancerJune 23 - July 23

Uranus, planet of surprises, is on the move again and after the 10th your Solar house of ambition and career is in the spotlight. An exciting opportunity

may come your way, be prepared to have a broader perspective on all areas of your life. Communication works well and confidence is high. January puts all your communications in the spotlight and gets you questioning if you are really using all of your

talents. Relationships are still an important issue and transformational change is the agenda. After the full moon in your sign on the 9th you should have more

courage to say exactly what needs to be said.

LeoJuly 24 - August 23

The Sun and Mercury light up the playful area of your chart and you’re ready for excitement and adventure. People that you meet tend to stir you into new ways

of thinking and new opportunities to travel and to further your education could arise. Demonstrating

the perfect balance of self-assertion and cooperation is vital. With energetic Mars in Virgo now in the

financial area of your chart, an in-depth review of money matters is on the agenda. It’s time to find some new and creative ways of increasing your income. This

becomes much easier after the 8th as quick thinking Mercury moves into no-nonsense Capricorn.

VirgoAugust 24 - September 23

The Sun and Mercury warm the domestic area of your chart. During this cycle, you are especially fond of life at home and with family. You’ll feel more receptive and gentle on a romantic level, and tend to be sentimental

or nostalgic now. The eclipse on the 10th brings vibrant new energy. January brings hard work and

reorganisation to the very top of your agenda. Energetic Mars is in your sign all month and urges you to use your time wisely. Mercury, your ruler, is in the domestic area

of your chart, home improvements should go well as there’s a new sense of originality to all creative projects..

HoroscopesWould you like to know how you can make the most of your personal journey through life? Would you like to know how you can get in touch with your personal power and be the very best version of yourself? I can help you to achieve personal transformation, discover your purpose and

work towards achieving your dreams.I am also a trained life coach and a practitioner of Bach flower essence therapy and I offer a full motivational and transformational coaching programme. Using cosmic wisdom and awareness you can plan your year ahead by tuning into productive planetary cycles and gaining the clarity and insight needed for optimal abundance and success. Overcome fears and anxiety and replace them with assertiveness and self-confidence. Consultations are available in person, on the telephone or Skype. Gift vouchers are also available. Please contact me for more information. Special offer – Your year ahead, a new and creative look at your life and your work, a one hour consultation for £55.

Christine ChalklinInspirational Astrologer, Life Coach and Business Consultant,www.RestyleYourLife.co.uk - christine@RestyleYourLife.co.uk

Telephone: 07813 483549

ALONG THE THAMES 55

LibraSeptember 24 - October 23

You are accustomed to making everyone else in your life happy, but this month you can tend to your own needs without guilt. Venus, your ruling planet, is in practical, hard working Capricorn and it’s a time for pushing your own personal projects and interests ahead. Domestic matters are in the spotlight for most of January, and normally indecisive Libra will have to make some decisions on the home front. Stern Saturn is still in your sign and gives a sound

base for all new projects. Use this productive cycle for planning and then follow up with decisive action

ScorpioOctober 24 - November 22

Three planets light up two very personal areas of your chart bringing your values, your communication and your self-expression to the forefront. Powerful Pluto, your ruler, is strong in ambitious Capricorn. You are in the position to make an impression on

others, and to assert your personal influence. The New Year begins with some deep introspection

concerning your ambitions and your career. You’ll be questioning many things that you started in 2011. Your

ruler, transformational Pluto, demands that you to find innovative ways to communicate your needs and wants so that you can obtain the necessary balance

SagittariusNovember 23 - December 22

Mars continues to animate and energize the most pivotal point in your chart. Jupiter highlights your work and your energy levels and sense of timing are good during this cycle. Others find you easy to be around,

even inspiring and energizing, and are attracted to your assertiveness and courage. Your work and your career

are brought into question this month, as innovative Uranus pushes for you to question if you are using all of your talents. You want excitement and something

new is in the air. With Jupiter, your ruler, moving favourably this should not prove too much of a problem.

CapricornDecember 23 - January 19

December is a strong month for creative pursuits and love matters. Romantic Venus is in your sign until the

21st. Your ambition is also heightened and opportunities may emerge from unexpected quarters. Your ruler is in Libra and you’ll need to find a balance when it comes to family matters. It’s your birthday month and you should be feeling increased confidence in all that you do. Intellectual Mercury moves into your sign on the

8th and brings with it brilliant new ideas for all your long term plans. Saturn, your ruler, is still in well balanced Libra enabling you to build some solid foundations.

PiscesFebruary 20 - March 20

Financial matters need careful attention this month as Uranus moves forward in the money sector of

your chart. You have all of the necessary tools at your disposal to make important changes to your spending

and borrowing habits. Work can be demanding but also motivating. January begins with a whirlwind of activity, as the Sun lights up the social area of

your chart. The new moon on the 23rd is in a deeply introspective part of your chart and you’ll know that this

is going to be a pivotal year. Mars is in your opposite sign of Virgo gives you the courage to make changes.

AquariusJanuary 20 - February 19

The Sun and Mercury are travelling through the social sector of your chart, bringing new friends and colleagues

on to the scene. Then after the 14th as Mercury turns direct, you should experience positive motivation to

further your business goals and professional interests which improve your income. The love planet Venus is in your sign until the 13th and then she moves into sensitive

and caring Pisces. You may question your values and also matters concerning your income. Your ruler, the

innovative Uranus, is forging ahead in fiery Aries. This could prove very beneficial for new opportunities.

THE COSMOS DURING DECEMBER

The Sun and communicative Mercury are in adventurous Sagittarius, broader vision and openness are the flavours of the month as Sagittarius seeks the truth, sometimes at all costs. An energetic month as we now feel our minds are open to new and exciting things that we never thought possible. Retrograde Mercury finally starts to move forward on the 14th when communications and travel plans run much more smoothly and this sets the tone for energetic and sparkling Christmas festivities. An important total lunar eclipse, the last of the year, falls in Gemini/Sagittarius on the 10th. Globally, commerce and the economy come into focus and the Euro problems may come to a head around this time. The New moon in Capricorn on Christmas Eve brings a reflective tone to the celebrations. This has been a turbulent year and things will never be the same again, maybe we can all think of people who might need our help around this time.And January 2012 What’s happening in the heavens during the first month of 2012? This is the last year that was recorded in the ancient Mayan calendar, some believe it heralds the end of the World, I’m sure that isn’t the case and what the wise Mayans probably meant was that many old and defunct systems are ending now and we are at the dawn of a new beginning for mankind. With all the amazing challenges and changes we have seen during 2011 and will continue see this year, we must all hope for better things to come. We’ll all need to look at more creative ways of working and bringing more fairness, kindness and compassion into the way things are done. This month the Sun and transformational Pluto are both in ambitious Capricorn, assisting new projects to really get of the ground and with abundant Jupiter in fellow earth sign Taurus, there’s plenty of scope for successful outcomes.Swim with the cosmic tides rather than against them!

56 ALONG THE THAMES

from Pages 30-31

Swisht: 476 467 .w: www.swishboutique.co.uk,a: 5 Liston Court, Marlow

No25 of Bourne Endt: 528 877 w: www.no25ofbourneend.co.uka: 25-27 The Parade, Bourne End

CatWalkt: 01628 540055 a: 9a High Street Maidenhead

Congratulationsto the winners of the following book competition

held in the October/November 2011 issue.Phoenix Rising by Ron Richardson:

H.White, S.Moxer, B. Jones

Answer to Spot the Difference, page 46

Answer to Working Titles, page 39

Answer to Codeword, page 49

Useful Numbers Stockists

Overall Patch ChangedHand missingPetrol capNumber plate Wing mirror

SpannerBonnet badgeHat colourGrillAerial

MAIDENHEAD- CLUBSRotary Club of Maidenhead ................................... 632797The Maidenhead Players ............................. 07879 476301Maidenhead Drama Guild ...................................... 635017Maidenhead Operatic Society ............................... 671589Maidenhead Musical Comedy Society ........ 07813979894Grimm Players ....................................................... 820429Maidenhead Concert Band .................................... 624514Maidenhead Folk Club ........................................... 448268Tuesday Singers ..................................................... 629012Athletics ................................................................. 522797Maidenhead & Bray CC ............................... 07989 579899North Maidenhead Cricket Club ............................. 624137Rugby ..................................................................... 629663Hockey ................................................................... 622669Desborough Bowls Club ........................................ 629403Rowing ................................................................... 622664WAMDSAD ............................................................ 627690Maidenhead LTA ...................................... www.mltc.co.ukThames Valley Cycling Club .................................... 638984East Berks Badminton ........................................... 636283Maidenhead Camera Club ...................................... 630861East Berkshire Ramblers ........................................ 634561Lions Club of Maidenhead ..................................... 634333

COOKHAM - CLUBSTennis & Croquet ......................................... 07968 173757Line Dancing .......................................................... 486362Petanque ............................ ................................... 417453

RBWM - COUNCILBus Services .......................................................... 796666CIS .......................................................................... 507587Council Tax .............................................................. 683850Library - Cox Green ................................................ 673942Library - Holyport Container ....................................796555Library - Maidenhead ............................................. 796969Recycling ................................................................ 796474Police .......................................................... 0845 8505 505Trains .......................................................... 0845 7000 125Town Hall ............................................................... 683800Youth & Community Centre ................................... 685999

HOSPITALSSt Mark’s Hospital ................................................... 632012NHS Direct ........................................................ 0845 4647St John’s Ambulance ................................... 0118 933 5500

Thames Valley Adventure Playground .................... 628599

COOKHAMLibrary .................................................................... 526147Police ...................................................................... 531785Bourne End & Cookham Rotary ............................. 810967Stanley Spencer Gallery ........................................ 471885Medical Centre ...................................................... 810242

Apologies to Paul Mitchell who took the front cover photograph for our October/November Maidenhead issue. If you would like to see more of Paul’s work, please visit his website at www.pmd-design.co.uk

1. Blue Harvest - Return Of The Jedi2. $3,000 Pretty Woman3. Love Hurts - Basic Instinct4. Not Tonight, Josephine - Some Like It Hot5. It Had To Be Jew - Annie Hall

6. The Body - Stand By Me7. Dangerous Days - Blade Runner8. The Greatest Gift - It's A Wonderful Life9. Rope Burns - Million Dollar Baby10. Black Mask - Pulp Fiction

ALONG THE THAMES 57

R.S. HALL UPHOLSTERY30 years experience

ALL UPHOLSTERY WORK UNDERTAKEN

Ω re-upholstery Ω pubs & clubsΩ sofas & chairs Ω schoolsΩ loose covers Ω hospitalsΩ antiques Ω office chairs

Contact Bob on 07809 140988 / 01494 461481

email: contact@rshallupholstery.co.ukwww.rshallupholstery.co.uk

Free Estimates

large contracts - over 300 fabrics available

Services

For the treatment of corns & calluses (hard skin),

verrucae, in-growing toenails, bunions, nail

problems and other foot ailments.

HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

SUE DAVIES MAFHP MCFHP Foot Health Professional

T: 01628 299404M: 07743 314986

E: sue.davies63@yahoo.co.ukW: www.suedavies.co.uk.Registered Member of the British Association of Foot

Health Professionals

Feet First

Hazel PonsfordPersonal Trainer07825 040040

hazel@latimerpt.co.uk

Personal TrainingPilates

Weight Management

Lily Massage Therapist07716501161

W: lily-massagetherapist.com

•Swedish Massage (1hr30mins: £35)

•Indian Head Massage (30mins: £15)

•Aromatherapy Massage (1hr15mins: £45)

Discounts for Pensioners! (Massage from £10 to £35)

Each 5th Swedish & Aromatherapy Massage is Free!

58 ALONG THE THAMES

LKD Counselling Maidenhead

• Established Counsellor• Confi dential• Individuals/Couples

Linda Dorgan07901 540340LKDcounselling@hotmail.co.uk

BA(Psychology); BA(Hons) Person Centred Counselling

MBACP

CHIROPODISTRobert Kevan M.Inst Chp

all general chiropody coveredspecialist warts, verrucas & fungal complaints

latest Hi-Tech treatmentsNo Pain, Highly Effective

hpc. no CH21742

Tel: 01628 5304644 Ravenshoe CloseBourne EndBucks SL8 5QP

Liquid NailsTop Session Nail Technician

“I bring my service to you.”

Manicures, Pedicures & Nail Extensions

Call Kim on07595 380083

E:kim@KimTreacy.com W:KimTreacy.com

NEW Axxium gel laquer by OPI

& Minx Nails

HAVE YOU BEEN SEARCHING FOR A GOOD CLEANER?

• Regular Weekly, Fortnightly and Monthly Cleaning• Spring Cleaning• Move – In / Move Out Cleaning• After Builders Cleaning• Ironing - in situ or taken and returned next day

Recommended by our Customers - www.sunlightcleaning.co.uk

Call for a quotation on 07933 006181...try us and you won’t regret it!

KENNEDY FURNITURE RESTORATIONMODERN AND ANTIQUE REPAIRS

POLISHERSCANE & RUSH SEATING

UPHOLSTERY

Full Delivery Service30 years of experience

01494 88284607731651680

kennedyrestoration@googlemail.com

Cost Effective Advertising for all Sizes of Businesses & Budgets

Delivered into over 8,000 homes every 2 months, with a readership of over 32,000

Contact us

T: 01628 771419M: 07711 887107

E: Offi ce@AlongThe Thames.co.uk“The man who stops advertising to save money is

like the man who stops the clock to save time”

ALONG THE THAMES 59

Last minute gadget gifts

Buying presents for gadget fans can be tricky, because in many cases they already have what they need. That doesn’t mean you’re stuck with USB lava lamps and iPod socks, though: there are lots of great gifts to choose from - and your present won’t end up stuck in a desk drawer somewhere.

If you’re buying for an iPod, iPad or iPhone owner - or owners of other smartphones or tablets - accessories make particularly good presents. Firms such as Proporta and Griffin make very high quality cases to keep precious gadgets safe.

You can also buy cases for devices such as Amazon’s Kindle - although the best such case is Amazon’s own, rather pricey, Kindle leather cover with built-in reading light. If you can’t or don’t want to spend £50 on a Kindle case, you’ll be pleased to discover that there are lots of perfectly good alternatives for considerably less cash on Amazon.co.uk. We particularly like Diabloskinz’ Kindle “skins”, which cover the Kindle’s dull plastic with something considerably more colourful.

There’s a great selection of useful accessories for iPod and iPhone owners too, many of which are compatible with other music players and smartphones:

for example, Belkin’s Tunecast 2 plugs into a headphone socket and transmits sound over FM radio frequencies, which is handy for in-car listening or broadcasting to multiple radios in the house. For fitness fans Gear4 and Adidas make armbands for iPhones and iPods, and for audiophiles there’s a dizzying range of headphones and speaker docks. If you’re buying for a frequent flyer, look out for noise-cancelling headphones: they’re superb for air travel.

There are lots of gift ideas for photography fans too. The superb GorillaPod range of portable tripods are guaranteed to make snappers happy, while serious photographers might be chuffed to receive a Hama Lens Cleaning Pen or an infrared remote control for their particular model. Alternatively,

Photojojo.com has a great range of coffee mugs that look identical to iconic camera lenses, and

there are plenty of UK stockists - including Amazon.co.uk, - offering delivery in plenty of time for Christmas.

Other great gifts for tech fans include the precision of Logitech’s G500 Gaming Mouse (£60) or a portable, wire-free mouse (around £30). Console owners needn’t be left out, either: an official wireless headset for Sony’s PlayStation 3 is around £23.

If you’re looking for

something more off the wall, how about a flying shark?

Iwantoneofthose.com has Air Swimmers, which are remote controlled balloons shaped like sharks, clownfish and so on. Air Swimmers have been a YouTube sensation, racking up more than 3 million hits from amused gadget fans. If you’re feeling flush, you could also invest in a pair of Tramp-it Jumping Shoes (from £89) for some truly eye-popping outdoor fun.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to find a decent gadgety gift, however. You can pick up - no pun intended - a set of Star Wars Chop Sabers, chopsticks designed to look like lightsabers, for around £11, while the award-winning FroliCat BOLT promises to drive your cat crazy with a high-tech, laser-powered take on a ball of wool for around

£19. The completely ridiculous Condiment Gun is a £16 pistol for spraying mustard or ketchup on your lunch, while the slightly more grown-up Tovolo TeaGo is a £12 press that promises perfect tea from your favourite tea leaves.

A Place to Celebrate Life

Potkiln Lane, Jordans, Beaconsfield, Bucks. HP9 2XB

Chiltern WoodlandBurial Park…the natural choice

Chiltern Woodland Burial Park is a stunning venue for funerals, memorial services, conferences and events.

Set in 72 acres of mature woodland, the beautiful ceremonial buildings offer a unique experience.

We offer catering facilities, plenty of parking, mobility buggies and highly trained staff, Chiltern Burial Park is truly a cemetery of our time.

We give all of our families a minimum of two hours for each funeral, the freedom to personalise each ceremony, complimentary refreshments and access to the woodland park 365 days a year.

Within the beautiful woodlands, families can choose the perfect resting place for their loved one for the burial or, following cremation, ashes can be scattered or buried in the woodland.

Graves and ashes plots may be selected and purchased in advance, giving peace of mind to those planning for their own future.

Our woodland burial park offers a unique and caring experience with a price range that makes the park accessible to all.

To find out more about this remarkable woodland, or request a brochure and price list call us on:

01494 872158 or visit:

www.woodlandburialparks.co.uk

Visitors are always welcome, our compassionate and experienced staff are here to help you. P

ial Parkfunerals,erences

e beautifulperience.

rking, ff,

of

f m

ss

s can ir loved one shes can be

d and mind

uege

woodland, and,us on:us on:

arks.co.ukk

assionateyou.