Village Life Hitchin October 2011

Lifestyle | Business | Community

Local Business Information

PLUS

FREEISSUE 27: OCTOBER 2011www.villagelifemag.com

FREEISSUE 27: OCTOBER 2011

LifeLifestyle | Business | Community

www.villagelifemag.com

LLVillage

INTERVIEW: WITH NEEL DENTISTRY

WIN A MEAL FOR 2 WORTH £80• Codicote • Kimpton • Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • Little Wymondley • Great Wymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth • Welwyn Village

Food Review

The Radcliffe Arms

WIN A MEAL FOR 2 WORTH £80

01438 714366

www.thewhitehorse-welwyn.co.uk

the white horse Pub, Restaurant & Garden

Welwyn Village’s hidden gem; This is

your quintessential English Pub, Restaurant and Village Garden; promising Delicious Food, Great

Drinks, and friendly service. If you don’t believe us, come and try our

new Autumn Menu

Looking for a venue for your Christmas Party?

£24 95 per person

Our Christmas menu is now available, see our website for

details, or give us a call

Now taking bookings for Christmas Day

get in quick before everyone else does!

C O N T E N T S

WELCOME TO OCTOBER

4: Local news

6: Wellbeing: Marilyn Tuck – Self Improvement at home

8: Business: HMRC targets cash based businesses

12: Local Business Focus: Interview with Neel Dentistry

14: Food Review: The Radcliffe Arms

20: Health & Fitness Focus – Zumba with Elle

22: Local Business Focus: Independent Living Supplies

24: Health & Fitness Focus: Active Health Welwyn

28: What’s on in October/Take a break

THE RADCLIFFE ARMS: PAGE 14

NEEL DENTISTRY: PAGE 12

Where Can You Find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine has a readership of 15,000 people and is delivered

to homes and businesses across 12 villages. Find us in Codicote,

Kimpton, Whitwell, Preston, Breachwood Green, Graveley,

Little Wymondley, Great Wymondley, St. Ippolyts, Gosmore,

Knebworth and Welwyn Village.

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIESMelanie Saavedra 01438 216950 [email protected]

Village Life is published monthly by MJS Publishing.

01438 216950, www.villagelifemag.com

© 2011 Village Life (Hitchin). Village Life (Hitchin) is an independent magazine and does

not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in

the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of Village Life magazine.

CALL uS: 01438 216950

EMAiL uS:[email protected]

ViSiT uS AND READ ThE MAgAziNE ONLiNE:www.villagelifemag.com

Jose & Melanie

October brings all things spooky with Halloween becoming more and more popular with the children. Trick and treating and pumpkin carving become a must on the 31st October!

This month we return to the Radcliffe Arms for a food review and there is a fantastic competition where you can win a meal for two worth £80. We also interview Neel Dentistry and hear from some other local businesses as well as our regular columnists.

Don’t forget to drop us a line with any stories and events so we can feature them in the magazine as we really value your input in keeping everything local. Phone 01438 216950 or email [email protected]

Bye for now,

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950October 2011 3

01438 714366

www.thewhitehorse-welwyn.co.uk

the white horse Pub, Restaurant & Garden

Welwyn Village’s hidden gem; This is

your quintessential English Pub, Restaurant and Village Garden; promising Delicious Food, Great

Drinks, and friendly service. If you don’t believe us, come and try our

new Autumn Menu

Looking for a venue for your Christmas Party?

£24 95 per person

Our Christmas menu is now available, see our website for

details, or give us a call

Now taking bookings for Christmas Day

get in quick before everyone else does!

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 October 20114

LOCAL NEWS

On Saturday 15th October, there will be a Charity Firewalk at the Node Conference Centre in Codicote in aid of the Cat Survival Trust (Welwyn) and The Inner Peace Centre for Conscious Living (Letchworth). The walk will be lead by Jon Boys (an executive coach and life coach helping people to develop all areas of their lives and businesses) and Dr Neelam Taneja Ph.D who has been teaching meditation for over 34 years. Jon attended his fi rst fi re walk in 2000, he was an operations manager of a large engineering company and had all the troubles of the world

his shoulders. His mind was struggling to switch off from all the unfi nished business swimming around his head. However he found that the idea that he only had an hour to go before being faced with walking on red hot coals suddenly brought his concentration back. Jon told us, “ I walked out bare foot onto frozen cobble stones and then frozen grass. The fi re seemed both massive and very hot, between 800 and 1100 F in fact! Thirty minutes later I had faced my fear and walked the coals, I loved it so much I now teach fi re walking for a living. We combine meditation training with cutting edge emotional intelligence training. In just 8 hours you can learn to quieten your mind to the point where you can walk over red hot coals without feeling any heat or pain. It is a wonderful experience and you gain tools you can use for the rest of your life. Anyone can do it and people as young as 8 and as old as 80 have done it with ease. You can either continue to struggle or you can learn how to let it all go and be free of your worries for good.“ You can fi nd more information from http://walkingonfi re.eventbrite.com

Face your fears and help two local Hertfordshire charities raise funds.

Joan Smythe from Letchworth decided to scale Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania last month after celebrating her 65th birthday. “It was really hard going,” said Joan, who is raising money for Leisure Direct, which provide sport and leisure activities for

adults with learning diffi culties – including her 23-year-old daughter Amy. “It was so cold I thought my fi ngers were going to drop off. I was absolutely exhausted and I thought my God I’m 65, what the hell am I doing up here! When I got to the top I just cried, I couldn’t believe I was there. It’s such a sight when you get up there and it was worth every minute of it. It was an amazing experience!” To sponsor Joan visit www.justgiving.com/Joan-Smythe

THE STATION KNEBWORTH COMPETITION WINNERS

Congratulations to the Addisons from Hitchin who won our August competition to win a three course meal for two at The Station Knebworth. They had a fantastic meal and the night they chose coincided with the monthly Rock ‘n Roll Bingo event, which they thought was great fun. Mr Addison told us,” We were treated like royalty, although everyone seemed to get looked after really well. Peter and Kim were great, the food was lovely and the staff were a great team. The best thing was the family atmosphere, Peter and Kim made everyone feel welcome. The Music bingo was really good fun and made the evening even better. Thank you Peter and Kim and Village Life, we will defi nitely be back!” The Station are now taking bookings for Christmas and can be contacted on 01438 812 224.

LETCHWORTH PENSIONER REACHES KILIMANJARO PEAK

The Station Knebworth, 1 Station Approach, Knebworth SG3 6AT

01438 812 224

2 meals for £8.95 on SaturdayPlease fill in this voucher and bring it in...

Name: ....................................................................................................................................................

Address: ................................................................................................................................................

Telephone: ............................................................................................................................................

Email: ....................................................................................................................................................

The STaTion

The Station Knebworth, 1 Station Approach, Knebworth SG3 6AT

01438 812 224

The STaTion

2 meals for £8.95 available all day monday to fridayrock n’ roll bingo – first saturday of every month, cash prize

Quiz NighT every Thursday £1 entry, cash prize

Christmas menu now available – book early!

Since my new, and improved, website is now up and running I thought it would be

nice to tell you about the range of positive audio recordings available to listen to at home.

The idea originally came to me when aps came out. I thought I would like to investigate and do one but I wasn’t sure quite how. That was about 2 years ago and since that time this has been in the back of my mind and I am still progressing to that point.

You see in my job my voice is my main tool. What I say during a consultation, either in, or out, of hypnosis, can help and influence people in a variety of positive ways. The sooner my clients get the change they want the better, and so over the years I have been supplying them with their own personalised recordings to listen to between consultations to embed the work we have done. They have all enjoyed this and inspired me to take it a step further.

So, after learning more about voice recording and testing myself in many ways, I have recorded a number of professional mp3’s and CD’s with a background of soft music, that anyone can buy, listen to at home, and feel a real difference as a result. Sort of like a mini hypnosis session for anyone to have at their fingertips at any time, night or day. The idea is to build yourself a little library of recordings you can listen to which improve

your state of well being and build your confidence. All with a small outlay of £7.99 and taking a mere 22 minutes of your time. (such as during a train journey, an afternoon rest, a lunchbreak, and even in bed)

The sleep series are just what you need if you cannot sleep. There are two very different sleep recordings and, there’s one to stop teeth grinding at night, too. Another for stopping snoring is in the pipeline. You listen to these when you are ready to go to sleep.

The healing series relax and stimulate the body’s healing processes. Each is different and can be listened to at home, in hospital, when having a procedure or treatment of any kind, (such as chemo or IVF), and even in the dentist chair. Listen often during the day, they will relax wonderfully and may help to lessen the need for painkillers.

The confidence series give you a kick start. These can be listened to when you first awaken, during a 22 minute break at home, or at work, on a commute (as long as you are a passenger), and to brighten you prior to an evening out.

Go and have a look under www.marilyntuck.co.uk. There are some on the home page and more under hypnotherapy recordings. There is a ‘listen to’ introduction to each series, and a 2 minute sample of each audio. These are a good investment to improve yourself and cost a fraction of the price of a consultation. Good as a gift, too.


WELLBEING

Naturally, if you have a deep issue, and want personalised help, a consultation would be more benefi cial, phone 07962 811907.

What about some self improvement at home?The fun in Marilyn Tuck’s work is the variety. People see her for all sorts of things: snoring, teeth grinding, and sleeping; fl ying, needles, thunder and claustro phobias; fi nding, mending and improving relationships; and, as she mentioned before, emotional stressy stuff that brings on anxiety, anger, sadness, comfort eating, drinking and smoking. Often entwined these can be unpicked and leave a

person really pleasantly changed within a few weeks, or a few months. The trick is motivation, want to do it, ask for help, and then let it happen.

The fun in things: snoring, teeth grinding, and sleeping; fl ying, needles, thunder and claustro phobias; fi nding, mending and improving relationships; and, as she mentioned before, emotional stressy stuff that brings on anxiety, anger, sadness, comfort eating, drinking and smoking. Often entwined these can be unpicked and leave a

person really pleasantly changed within a few weeks, or a few months. The trick is motivation,

[email protected]

James Howe LandscapesDesign Construction Maintenance

Design Services Grass Cutting Planting TurfingDrainage Garden Clearance Brickwork Tree Work

Hedge Reductions Patios Driveways FencingDecking Rockeries Water Features

Free quotation and advice.

M: 07787 517372 T: 01438 820148

WithJames Howe Landscapes,

you are guaranteed a friendly,reliable and quality service.


In the past when they were separate organisations it used to be said if you owed money to the Inland Revenue and to HM

Customs & Excise you should pay Customs & Excise first because the Inland Revenue did not carry guns and did not turn up in the middle of the night to collect.

6 April 2011 marked the 15th anniversary of the introduction of self assessment and whilst it passed with little note, the now combined body of HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has gone to great lengths drag itself into the so-called information age. A risk based approach to enquiries is replacing the lucky dip we once had with HMRC making use of a vast array of third party information available to it.

The common feature of these facilities has been a carrot and stick approach with the carrot being a guaranteed low (typically 10%) penalty and a light touch approach for past offenders coming clean voluntarily and the stick being use of the incriminating evidence collected by HMRC and the application of hefty (typically 100%) penalties and even prosecution for the worst offenders.

Now it seems HMRC has decided to move the stick approach up a notch and make examples of a few tax evaders. In particular, a recent focus on plumbers has led to 5 arrests with a view to criminal prosecution for tax evasion.

It would be naive to think that HMRC will be limiting its attention to plumbers and anyone working cash in hand or otherwise under-declaring income ought to sleep a little less easy in the future.

For anyone concerned that their tax affairs are not up to date the answer is, of course, to make a voluntary disclosure to HMRC to secure favourable penalty rates and a light handed approach. Please contact Graham Boar, Tax Manager on 01462 687333.

If you are concerned you are at danger should a tax enquiry occur, I would be happy to offer a free review of your bookkeeping and accounts. This way you can be safe in the knowledge that should the tax man knock on your door – you are fully prepared! Please call Adam on 01462 687333 or 07850 504044.

hMRC targets cash based businessesBUSINESS

This month Adam Fernandes from WKH Chartered Accountants talks about how HMRC is targeting Cash based businesses.

■ Accountants & Auditors

■ Tax Advisors■ Bookkeeping

& Payroll■ Corporate Finance■ Financial Planning

Come to the professional with expert knowledge, experience and resources to make a difference.

Letchworth: 01462 687333 • Royston: 01763 247321• Also in Cambridge.

www.wkhca.co.uk

Because your business matters

WKH QPH 0411.indd 1 17/03/2011 13:21


VILLAGE LIFE

Looking for something a little different?newleaf marketing communications may just be what you are looking for

newleaf marketing communications is a full service marketing consultancy. We specialise in the design and print of promotional literature, branding and contract publishing. We also have a wealth of experience in managing media relations, online promotions, direct mail and photography.

At newleaf marketing communications we provide more than just creative skills but also the ability to listen, understand and solve complex issues quickly and efficiently.

For more information on how we can help your company call us today 01438 871968

W www.newleafmarcom.com E [email protected] T 01438 871968

More than just great ideas...Design Print Media Planning Contract Publishing Branding

1/2 A5 advert_Layout 1 12/05/2011 16:14 Page 1

Hide-A-Way Holiday ChaletsThe perfect Hide-A-Way for a relaxing holidayChalets on a well maintained site in Scratby, just four miles way from Great Yarmouth. Heated outdoor pool and a sandy beach just a short walk away.Many attractions and places to visit including the Norfolk Broads in the vicinity. Chalets sleep up to 6 people. Disabled facilities available.

Call Allan on 01438 727 834 or 07970 014 839 or email [email protected] email [email protected] email [email protected] email [email protected]

Hide-A-Way HP 0511.indd 1 13/04/2011 14:00


LOCAL BUSINESS FOCUS

Q. How many years have you been in Practice?A. Fifteen years in total after five years at Dental school. Q. How is business?A. Things are going really well, we have been shortlisted for ‘most attractive practice’ and ‘ ‘practice of the year’ at the private dentistry awards 2011 which I am really proud of.

Q.What toothbrush would you recommend?A. An Oral b Triumph or a Sonicare if you are looking for an electric toothbrush, or a small headed Curaprox brush if manually brushing. Q. Why do my gums bleed?A. Bleeding gums are usually caused by inflammation due to plaque bacteria. Make sure you have a new toothbrush head and spend at least 2 minutes brushing morning and evening. A hygienist appointment would be recommended to give you toothbrushing advice and a professional clean. Q. Why are injections so uncomfortable?A. We have a great piece of equipment called ‘The Wand’. It provides anaesthetic so slowly you hardly feel it and it only numbs the tooth being treated on. So no more dribbling or inability to speak properly after being treated. Q. I have missing teeth and I hate wearing a denture. Is there an alternative?A. Dental Implants are a fantastic way of restoring your gaps and allowing you to eat and smile again properly, without damaging your other teeth.

Q. Does whitening teeth damage the enamel?Teeth whitening done professionally and appropriately has been used safely for many years and looks amazing. There is some sensitivity which goes away quickly and we use desensitisers. I would caution against over the counter products.

Q.What age should I start bringing my child to the dentist.A. From about 3 years of age to build their confidence. Most important is to get them into a good routine early on. Try not to let children have sweet snacks and drinks between meals or late at night. Use a small headed toothbrush and make sure you help them brush. Your hygienist can help demonstrate the correct technique. Q. I have just had a root canal treatment and my dentist now wants me to have the tooth crowned. Why is this?A. Root canal treatment is a great way of saving a tooth. Firstly these teeth are usually very broken down and also as the nerve is taken out, it is easy to bite too hard on the tooth. A crown thus secures and protects the compromised tooth. Q. Is it true a mouth splint could help with my headaches and migraines?A. Migraines and tension headaches are associated with teeth grinding and hyper activity of the jaw muscles. A simple mouth splint worn at night can reduce the intensity of these forces. Millions of people in the USA have been helped by this replacing the need for constant drugs.

This month we met up with Neel Jaiswal from Neel Dentistry for a brief interview... You can contact Neel Dentistry on 01438 712713 or visit www.neeldentistry.co.uk


VILLAGE LIFE

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPEDESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

StoneworkPavingPatiosTerracesWallingTurfingPlantingWater Features& Related Projects

www.russelldicksonlandscape.co.uke: [email protected]

Call: 07833 591340 01438 821384

Please mention The Hitchin Village Directory when responding to adverts 28


FOOD REVIEW

T his month we returned to The Radcliffe Arms to sample the food. We

were greeted with a smile and shown to a table, shortly after Landlord Stuart popped over to say hello and talked us through the menu, making recommendations.

We decided to start with the Seared Scallops, Chorizo and Chick Pea Ragu and the Terrine of Pork Knuckle, Ham and Parsley, Tomato Chutney and Garden Salad. The scallops were delightful and worked really well with the chorizo and the chick peas, I’ve not seen this combination before but it made a fantastic start to the meal. The Pork Knuckle Terrine was well presented and full of flavour, making it a really scrumptious cold starter.

We then opted for Roasted Pork Tender-Loin with Butter Beans, Chorizo, Calvo Nero with Sage Pesto and a Char- grilled 10oz Sirloin steak with Roasted Baby Potatoes and Spinach. The pork was succulent and tender with the Sage Pesto giving it a really tasty flavour. Again the chorizo worked really well here and the Calvo Nero is a tasty alternative to cabbage. We asked for the steak to be cooked medium rare and it was cooked perfectly, the potatoes and spinach were also cooked well and made for a very enjoyable dish.

To finish the meal, we took the waitress’ recommendations of Dark Chocolate and Baileys Cheesecake and Strawberries with Shortbread and Vanilla Cream. I was warned that the Cheesecake was very rich, however as a chocolate lover this wasn’t a problem for me and I absolutely loved it. The Strawberries went really well with the shortbread and cream offering another winning desert.

The Radcliffe Arms is a modern, clean and friendly Gastropub offering delicious fresh food, a large selection of wines and a very friendly and relaxing atmosphere. The staff are friendly, attentive and enthusiastic with a good knowledge of the menu and happy to make recommendations. The food is good value for the quality with starters ranging from £4.95 to £9.95 and mains courses from £11.95 to £18.95. It is worth mentioning the Steak Deal on Sunday and Monday (Two Rump Steaks, fries, salad and pepper sauce and a bottle of house wine for £35). Also the Tuesday Supper Club offers a set Seasonal Menu of 2 Starters, 2 Mains & Pudding to share, with a bottle of wine for just £35.

We had a thoroughly enjoyable evening and I would highly recommend a trip to The Radcliffe Arms.

The Radcliffe Arms, hitchin

The Radcliffe Arms31 Walsworth RoadhitchinSg4 9ST01462 456 [email protected] dish. The Radcliffe Arms.

to Win a meal for tWo to tHe valUe of £80, JUst ansWer tHe folloWinG QUestion –

‘What is the name of the landlord?’ Please email your answer with contact details

to [email protected] before the end of october


VILLAGE LIFE

Ewart PriceS O L I C T O R S

1st Floor, 16-18 Church Road, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. AL8 6PS

Telephone: 01707 387884 or visit: www.ewartprice.com

Mike Bottomley (Partner), specialises in wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney. Home visits can be arranged without charge.

Please feel free to call on 01707 387884 or e-mail for advice: [email protected]

Ewart Price: Personal…practical…professional

Ewart Price HP 1210.indd 1 19/11/2010 12:48

Old Welwyn Construction Specialists in Extensions, Home Refurbishment,

Landscaping, Patios and Driveways. Call Daniel on 01438 715362 or 07748 204 818

Email: [email protected]

Old Welwyn Construction 0811 HP.indd 1 21/07/2011 14:05

how it works

If you are considering a plan, our funeral arrangers will be happy to guide you through the options. They will go through the details in the same way as any other funeral and will provide you with a written estimate. The cost is based on Austin’s current price list and is fully inclusive.

You will receive a draft plan of the arrangements for your approval. There is no rush. You may wish to discuss your wishes with family and friends and any changes can easily be made prior to finalising the plan.

Once you are completely happy, and payment has been made, you will receive a certificate outlining all the details along with copies for your family or solicitor. When the time comes your family simply informs us that you have a Hertfordshire Funeral Plan and we will take care of everything. The Hertfordshire Funeral Plan is a bespoke, pre-payment plan exclusive to Austin’s which takes care of your wishes and simplifies the arrangements for your loved ones.

When the time comes your family simply informs us that you have a Hertfordshire Funeral Plan and we will take care of everything.

Planning aheadfor peace of mind


ADVERTORIAL

The HertfordshireFuneral Plan is a

bespoke, pre-paymentplan exclusive to Austin’swhich takes care of your

wishes and simplifi esthe arrangements for

your loved ones.

Peaceof mind

for you andyour family

www.austins.co.uk

Planning ahead for peace of mind

01438 794420MONDAY - FRIDAY ONLY

Hertfordshire’s leading independent funeral directors Austin’s, offers an exclusive, pre-payment funeral plan which enables you to have the funeral of your

choice and your family to avoid any emotional or financial stress. Unlike many other plans, the Hertfordshire Funeral Plan is bespoke so arrangements can be as simple or elaborate as required. And whatever choices you do make, you can rest assured that you and your loved ones will benefit from the exceptional customer care that Austin’s is renowned for.

Arranging a funeral for a loved one can be a distressing experience for family and friends. Quite often the wishes of the deceased have never been discussed and it is left to grieving relatives to second guess what they may have wanted.

Austin’s Funerals Team

• is the plan secure?

Although the Hertfordshire Funeral Plan is operated in conjunction with Austin’s Funeral Service, its fund and

administration are protected under an independent trust. A copy of the full Declaration of Trust is available.

• What happens if i move to a different area?

If you move to an area not serviced by Austin’s, on death, the current value of the plan may be claimed by the

local funeral director carrying out the arrangements.

• Can i change my mind about the arrangements?

Yes. Changes may be made by contacting Austin’s.

• What happens if i die away from home or on holiday?

The plan will cover returning you from anywhere in the United Kingdom, to your home area. Should you die

whilst overseas, the plan includes collecting you from any UK port or airport. You should be insured when

travelling overseas. The Hertfordshire Funeral Plan can not include charges for air or sea travel.

• When do i pay for the plan?

Payment is normally made in full on confirmation of the arrangements. However payment by instalments will

be considered, if required.

• Must i be in good health to take out a plan?

No. A Hertfordshire Funeral Plan may be taken out

by anyone regardless of age or state of health.

• Will the plan completely cover the cost

of my funeral?

Yes. Providing that the funeral arrangements are

carried out in accordance with the details of your

plan, no further charges will be incurred. Your

family, or friends may wish however to include

additional services not selected by you. These will

be charged in accordance with Austin’s current

price list.


VILLAGE LIFE

Harwood ParkTh e perfect setting to commemorate

the life of your loved one

Keeping memories alive

Crematorium and memorial gardens createdand managed by the Austin family in the

beautiful Hertfordshire countryside

01438 815555

www.crematorium.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

Peace of mind for you and your family www.austins.co.uk 01438 794420 MONDAY - FRIDAY ONLY


VILLAGE LIFE

Deep Cleaning plus Fast Drying for Upholstery, Carpets, Leather Cleaning

Amtico & Karndean Floors Cleaned, Carpets & Fabric Protector Leather Renovation, Burn Retufting, Oriental Rugs & Curtains Specialist

Recommended By Leading Retailers, Insurance Companies & Other Cleaners!

Professional, Reliable & Good Value for Money 25 years experience

Courteous & Uniformed Operatives - not a Franchise

74 High Street, Codicote, SG4 8XD www.cleaningneeds.co.uk

We operate in Stevenage, Hitchin and the surrounding areas

extra helpa helping hand

Do you or does someone you know need some Extra Help?

Our services include:• Meal preparation• Shopping and errands• Ironing• Escorts (Bingo, hospital etc)• Regular or one-off services• Dog walking• Senior sitting

From £10 per hour

Tel 0845 219 8978 www.extra-help.co.uk

Are you living on your own and finding things difficult?Getting older and finding everyday tasks harder?Need some help getting to the Dr or to hospital appointments?We can help by providing friendly, professional, reliable, police checked carers.Call us now and let us provide a helping hand.


VILLAGE LIFE

• For all your vehicle servicing and MOT requirements • Latest Bosch Diagnostic Equipment• Air conditioning servicing and repairs• Fuel injector testing and ultrasonic cleaning• Friendly, personal service from family run team• All work carried out by fully skilled and trained staff• We do not carry out extra work without your authority• Courtesy vehicles available on request

DAVID THOMAS GARAGESService is our Business

Telephone: 01438 820 288www.davidthomasgarages.co.ukNewtown, Codicote, Herts. SG4 8UG

David Thomas Garages HP 1110.indd 1 21/10/2010 10:46

Airport Direct Cars provides a quality private hire car service at affordable costs, using a modern fl eet of Saloons & MPVs (up to 8 seats) for business or private travel.

Get your holiday off to a stress-free start and avoid paying for ever increasing car park charges. We offer competitive rates without compromising on quality of service.

All drivers are fully licensed and we are very experienced in organising transport solutions for meetings & conferences. Single or multi person travel can be arranged giving you the total visibility on all transfers and costs.

Contact us for competitive prices on all your travel requirements or to open a business account. Telephone: 01438 812615

Airport Transfer Departures & Arrivals

Corporate & Business Journeys

Frequent Flyer & Regular Run Service

Sea Port Departures & Arrivals

Wedding Parties & Social Events

Sporting Events & London Theatre Trips

Discreet, Friendly Service

01438 812615www.airportdirectcars.co.uk

All major credit and debit cards accepted

Hertfordshire’s Premier Travel Service

Airport Transfer

Hertfordshire’s Premier Travel Service

Airport Cars Direct HP 0111 2.indd 1 20/01/2011 10:09


HEALTH & FITNESS FOCUS

Cressi’s Chores & Pawsand Popsie’s Pantry...

Cressida offers an affordable approach to household and pet care solutionsalong with live in carer/companion services including:

House Sitting • Pet sitting and dog walking serviceHousekeeper duties • Carer and personal care dutiesPA / Admin / Sales - A helping hand in your personal affairs/small business

Popsie’s Pantry Home cooked meals and small dinner parties

Mobile: 07876 101490 or email: [email protected] available on request.

Cressi's Chores & Paws and Pantry HP 0811.indd 1 19/07/2011 14:11

zuMBA with Elle

Zumba is an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-

burning dance fitness craze that is sweeping the nation and is now available in the Village Life area thanks to local instructor Ellena Brooks.

Ellena has danced since the age of four winning a raft of medals, awards and competitions. In her teenage years she helped run a dance troupe which performed at the London Palladium and Her Majesty’s Theatre to packed out audiences. In her early 20’s she was introduced to Salsa and was taught by a professional Salsa and Merengue dancer.

Ellena is not your run of the mill Zumba instructor, offering classes which are friendly, energetic, fun and a superb workout. Many customers

are combining her class with a healthy diet and are losing weight week on week. Ellena has even setup a Facebook support group were people can discuss all things Zumba plus losing weight, their goals, the class that night and even the music.

Music is so important to Ellena’s class. Cypriot by birth and because of her dance influences, she loves all types of international music. It’s energising and uplifting and she keeps to the original styles of dance for the music – be it Salsa, Cumbia, Flamenco, Greek or Regaetton.

Ellena told Village Life, “There’s no sign of a pop song or a grapevine move in my class which I am very proud of! We get together for an hour and fill that hour with uplifting music, fun moves and we burn calories with a huge grin, we definitely do not take

ourselves too seriously. I dance like a mad woman, but everyone in the class takes it at their personal pace.”

Ellena has four classes a week - Monday’s and Tuesday’s at 8pm at the Welwyn Civic Centre; Wednesday’s at 7.30pm at Oaklands Primary School, and Thursday’s at 8pm at St John’s CE JMI School in Lemsford. There is no need to book, just turn up 10 minutes before the class time to register. £5 per class and a loyalty card gives you your 11th class free.

For further information, contact Ellena on 07949 927231 or email [email protected]

the class takes it


VILLAGE LIFE

FIVE STARFurnishing Care Consultants

Carpet Cleaning • Upholstery Cleaning Oriental and Modern Rug Cleaning • Leather Cleaning and

Repair/ Restoration • Tile and Stone Cleaning

Freephone: 0800 0378094www.fivestarfurnishingcare.com

The Most Thorough Cleaning Ever SeenOr It’s FREE!... Our Guarantee To You!


VILLAGE LIFEBUSINESS FOCUS


independent Living Supplies

I ndependent Living Supplies provide a range of telecare products, from the latest

technology to the simplest solutions offering independence for the elderly and disabled who wish to remain in their home, along with peace of mind and reassurance for family carers and relatives. Falls, floods, fire, taking medication, inactivity, bogus callers, can all be an issue but the telecare products are a safe and easy way to send alerts for help.

The business was setup by Lisa Cox who spent many years advising the Local Authorities on telecare solutions used within their sheltered housing and care homes. With the increasing growth of the elderly population and cuts in council funding, Lisa realised that there

was a need to provide easy to use technology that reduced the costs for care.

If you have capital of over £23,000 you will be funding care and could be paying as much as £1,400 per week for a waking night Carer. With telecare technology you can reduce care costs by approximately £350 per week by paying for a “sleeping night carer”.

Lisa offers a wide range of products from leading manufacturers including portable alarm pager units, homecare monitoring solutions and medication alerts. One of the most popular products is a watch telephone which is worn on the wrist or as a pendent. It receives incoming calls and is capable of a clear two way conversation through the watch. It is simple to use, pressing the two

buttons makes a call and pressing one button receives a call. In an emergency, the family, carer or an emergency response unit can be alerted.

Lisa’s knowledgeable staff provide advice on the best and most cost effective solutions for people, she has a team of installers who will go round, set up and test the technology ensuring that the family carer or relative and the end users are totally satisfied with the product and how to use it.

Village Life Readers can enjoy 50% off the installation charge by mentioning Village Life when they call. For further information contact Lisa on 01438 821251 or visit www.independentlivingsupplies.co.uk

buttons makes a call and pressing one button receives a call. In an emergency, the family, carer or an emergency response unit can

Lisa’s knowledgeable staff provide advice on the best and most cost


VILLAGE LIFE


VILLAGE LIFE

Bide-A-WhileRESIDENTIAL CARE HOME Bide-A-While is a small, family run Residential Care Home in Stevenage providing day, evening and respite care for the elderly.

Warm, relaxed family atmosphereEn-suite roomsFresh, daily prepared mealsBaths, showers, hairdressing and chiropody availableRange of activities: Keep Fit, Arts & Crafts, Music and QuizzesHighly trained, friendly staffTransport service available

Call now on 01438 220500 to arrange a visit or enquire about availability.Email: [email protected]: www.bide-a-while.co.uk

Bide a While 0511 HP.indd 1 13/04/2011 15:04

Total Soft Water can help; from either our Harpenden or Hitchin shops we can supply a wide range of water softeners, drinking water filters and salt.

For expert, friendly advice and simple, hassle free installations visit Total Soft Water; it couldn’t be easier to rid your life of the ravages of limescale. Free quotations and home surveys.

Bring this advert along for a free bag of salt when you buy 5.

Fed up with Limescale and the other effects of hard water?• HelpalleviatedryskinconditionssuchasEczema• Reducedetergentconsumptionbyupto65%• Keepbathroomsandkitchenslookingclean&newforlonger

Check what our customers say about us at www.totalsoftwater.com or call us on 01462 455772Visit our stores at 130 Cambridge Road, Hitchin or 54 Westfield Road, Harpenden

Total Soft Water 0711 HP.indd 1 17/06/2011 11:59


HEALTH & FITNESS FOCUS

Active health

Active Health, in Welwyn village, is a multi-therapy practice offering

McTimoney Chiropractic and a range of other services to help you improve your health and live a more active life. Massage (seated, remedial, Indian Head), Graston Therapy, ultrasound, emotional freedom technique, hypnotherapy, ear candling, homoeopathy and Pilates are all available.

The business was established nine years ago by Catherine Rumbelow and Colin Rance. Catherine discovered McTimoney Chiropractic in her teens and early 20s whilst suffering from back and neck injuries. Chiropractic changed her life and led to Catherine changing her career and training as a McTimoney Chiropractor. Colin’s natural desire to look after and take

care of people led to him completing courses in sports massage, on-site massage and Reiki before attending the McTimoney College of Chiropractic.

Chiropractors make small adjustments to the skeleton. These help the body to work more efficiently, enabling it to better deal with the illness, injury, pain, discomfort, numbness, restricted mobility and pins and needles brought about by the stresses and strains of life. Mctimoney chiropractic is a very gentle chiropractic technique suitable for all. Catherine, Colin and the third chiropractor at Active Health, Richard Sperrin, have helped their patients deal with all manner of stresses whether due to childbirth, falls, poor posture, or car and sporting accidents. Their patients have, to-date, ranged

from a 94 year-old trying to cope with hip pain, to a 3 day-old baby dealing with the stress of having been born (and with whom they saw an immediate improvement in bladder function!).

Catherine and Colin are more than happy to discuss by phone whether or not what they offer is suitable for you and to answer any questions you may have. If you decide to attend for an appointment they have agreed to offer a £5.00 discount off your appointment on the production of this article*. You can also buy gift vouchers for any of the therapies offered which make an unusual present and are well worth thinking about with Christmas just around the corner!*One discount per person.

from a 94 year-old trying from a 94 year-old trying

www.activehealth.org.uk01438 718 988


VILLAGE LIFE

Need help with your PC? All your computer problems solved Friendly, affordable, jargon free service Training and advice provided Website design and hosting Home and small business specialists Local company, fast response time We guarantee NO FIX NO FEE

[email protected]

Solving your IT problemsspectrum IT support

Call now on:01438 833 671

All Aspects of Tree and Hedge Work UndertakenGarden MaintenanceFully Qualifi ed and InsuredCall Duncan Evans on 07759 804 035 for quotes or advice

Rabley Tree CareRabley Tree CareRableyRabley Tree CareRabley Tree CareRableyRabley Tree Care Tree CareRabley Tree CareRabley

Rabley Tree CareRabley Tree CareRableyRabley Tree CareRabley Tree CareRableyRabley Tree Care Tree CareRabley Tree CareRabley

Rabley QP 0711.indd 1 17/06/2011 11:11

Call Simon on07971 860 135 / 01707 326 366

All Your Fencing NeedsSupplied & Fitted

Free EstimatesCouncil Approved

Hedge CuttingGarden Maintenance

Friendly & Reliable Service

FENCINGSN MAINTENANCE

SN Fencing 0311.indd 1 16/02/2011 09:18

JD Plastering

Clean, ReliablePlasterers with over 20 years experience

Jason Dimmock07775 668 48101582 72476112 Whittingham Close

Luton, Bedfordshire. LU2 9UR

JD Plastering 0311.indd 1 15/02/2011 14:33


VILLAGE LIFE

• • •

HOME APPLIANCE

REPAIRSRepairs of Washing Machines, Tumble

Dryers, Electric Cookers & Ovens and all

domestic appliances.

Specialist in Hotpoint, Indesit, Ariston, Creda

and Whirlpool.

SHIRONDOMESTIC APPLIANCESTel: 01438 720304Mobile: 07739 922493

Shiron Domestic QP 0310.indd 1 25/02/2010 12:34

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory please call Melanie on 01438 216 950 23

Village Tree Services

Tel: 01462 435 873 Mob: 07717 744 274

Professional Tree Care Services All Aspects of Tree Work Undertaken

Fully Qualified and Insured Logs Available

VillageTree Services

Tel: 01462 435 873Mobile: 07717 744274

Village Tree Services 0310 QP.indd 1 22/02/2010 13:46

Ceramic Classes & Workshops in Hitchin

2 hour taster classes only £10 including clay6 week courses £72 including 1lb clay

• Small friendly groups with individual tuition.• Explore methods of working with clay to

create fi nished, fi red work.• Learn all hand building methods, decoration

and glazing.• Classes are suitable for beginners and the

more experienced.• Parties and family activity sessions.

Ceramic Classes &

To book call: 07952 578335 or e-mail [email protected] www.claywithcarole.co.uk or my facebook page: facebook.com/potteryclasses. 3 Brook View, Hitchin, SG4 9NY


VILLAGE LIFE

EXTREME WINDOW CLEANING SERVICEOur standard service includes cleaning all of your screens and window frames and wiping of all frames and sills.Fully Insured • All areas coveredWe also o� er Gutter ClearanceCompetitive pricesCall Vasi now on:07766 081657 or 01438 840811, email: [email protected] visit: www.vasilelive.co.uk

Extreme Window Cleaning QP 0511.indd 1 11/04/2011 17:19

25

To advertise in The Hitchin Village Directory place call Melanie on 01438 216 950

JCS SOLICITORS

Divorce & Separation

Children

We are a niche firm who provide a supportive and personal service during the stressful

experience of divorce and family separation. We cover Herts & Beds.

Hill House, 1 St Albans Rd, Codicote, Herts, SG4

For Specialist Matrimonial Advice

Cohabitation

www.jcssolicitors.co.uk

Tel: 01438 820 946

Specialists inPlumbing and heatingBoiler & Heating InstallationsBoiler UpgradesPower FlushingPumps, Radiators & ValvesHot & Cold Water Tanks

All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken

For a free no obligation quote contact01438 [email protected]

Stagg Property Services QP 0211.indd 1 19/01/2011 12:02

Wasps Rats ~ Mice ~ Ants ~ Rabbits ~ Moles

Squirrels ~ Foxes ~ Birds ~ Moths ~ Flies Mobile: 07890 131174

Telephone: 01767 315101 www.shirespestcontrol.co.uk

National Pest Technicians Association

What’s on in October Take a Break…

SUDOKU

CROSSWORDSaturday 8th October, 10am - 3pm WOMEN’S DAY, Woolmer Green Village Hall, Hall Lane, Woolmer Green, SG3 6XACounsellors for Women - Holistic Therapist - Vintage/Charity Clothing, Forever Living Therapist - Herts Women’s Centre, Hypnotherapist - Reiki Therapist - Refl exologist - Stylist - Mini Facials, Yoga - Zumba Fitness - Ceroc, refreshments, Bouncy Castle & Face Painting. Entrance Fee 50p per adult, under 12’s free. For Further info, call Herts Women’s Centre 01438 742742

Sunday 9th October, 10.30am-12pmNCT Children’s Nearly New Sale, Stanborough School, Lemsford Lane, WGCFree entry with cake donation, everything you need for children 0-8 years. Contact Emma on 0844 243 6316 for more information.

Friday 14th October, 9.30am - 12.30pm (then second Friday of every month after)Damsels in Success – Live the Dream, Mill Green Golf Club Hertfordshire AL7 4TY Monthly meeting of women who inspire other women to be the best they can be. Take time for yourself, have a fi x of laughter and learning (and cake!), and connect with other ‘like-minded’ women. The fi rst month is free. A monthly charge applies if you decide to become a member.

Saturday 22 October, 12pm to 5.30pmWalking Festival, Shaw’s Corner, Ayot St Lawrence, near Welwyn, AL6 9BXEnjoy a family friendly 6 mile (shorter routes available) walk through the countryside that surrounds Shaw’s Corner. Wear suitable walking clothing. Refreshments available and dogs on leads welcome, Contact Lizzie Dunford 01438 820307. Gates open 11:45, last entry 12pm.

Wednesday 26th October – Friday 28th October, 12.00 noon - 4.30pm.Pumpkin Trail and Treats at Knebworth HouseTake part in pumpkin activities and the pumpkin trail (goody bag prize on completion), meet the bats. For the more daring, join a bat twilight walk, expected at 4.00pm. Booking essential, www.knebworthhouse.com.

Thursday 27th October 1.30pm and 2.45pm/Friday 28th 1.30pm and 2.45pmMini Munchers Cooking Classes, Tilehouse Street Pre-school, Upper Tilehouse St, Hitchin, SG5 2UDHalf term cooking classes for children aged 2-10 years, £5.25 per child, reductions for siblings. Pre-booking and payment required before classes. Contact Sarah O’Reilly on 07818 475 176 or email [email protected]

Sunday 30th October A Night at the Opera – Stevenage Gordon Craig Theatre London Festival Opera brings together world class artists who have appeared with the major opera companies. Box Offi ce on 01438 363200

Every 4th Sunday of the Month, From 9.30am - 1.00pmWOOLMER GREEN MARKET, Woolmer Green Village Hall, Hall Lane, Woolmer Green, SG3 6XALocal and International Food, Local meats and fresh farm eggs, Local and Italian Cheeses, Natural Products, Plants Vintage Clothing, Crafts, Comic Books and lots more. Contact Tracey Atkinson 01438 821282

GET YOUR EVENT LISTED FOR FREE HERE, EMAIL: [email protected] or call us on 01438 216 950

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

ACROSS1. Fiftieth anniversary (6)4. Lift (5)8. Trench (5)9. A shorebird (7)10. A fringe of hair on upper face (7)11. Male deer (4)12. Pinch (3)14. Dam (4)15. Den (4)18. Excavate (3)21. A public school (4)23. Attained (7)25. A city in Germany (7)26. Saunter (5)27. Expel (5)28. Sculpture (6)

DOWN1. Gizmo (6)2. Raffl e (7)3. Urged on (8)4. Mature (4)5. Dunce (5)6. Interlock (gears) (6)7. Jester (5)13. Nice (8)16. Occupy (7)17. Goad (6)19. Allow (5)20. Stick (6)22. Overweight (5)24. Revise (4)

VILLAGE LIFE


ACOLINE

WATER SOFTENERS

www.acolinesofteners.co.uk

1 New Road, Clifton, Shefford, Beds, SG17 5JH

01462 811487

FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1982

Our Non Electric Water Softeners

That Serve Any Size Family & Fit

Under The Sink, Use Blocks Of Salt

(See Insert Picture)...

Its Simply Child's Play (From the manufacturers that Pioneered the block salt softener)

• Non Electric

• Uses Up To 60% Less Salt

• 7 Year Guarantee

• Purchase Or Lease Rental

• Free Salt Delivery

• We Repair All Makes Of Water Softeners


SHOWCASE

Michael ShelleyElectricalQualifi ed Electrician

“No job too small”Tel: 01438 820 820Mobile: 07930 243651Email: [email protected] member of ElecSa

I.B HYDE & SONALL TYPES OF PLASTERING

35 Year Est. Family Business Internal & External

Walls & Ceilings Skimmed Renovation - Lime Mortar Rendering, Pebble Dashing

01582 725266 or 07774 790400

Specialising in wedding �lowers, beautiful, stylish �lowers tailored

to suit the bride, her dress and the wedding venue. For a free

consultation call Lotty. Telephone: 01438 821 888

121 high Street, Codicotewww.peony�lorist.co.uk

Peony Florist

COMPUTERPROBLEMS

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

Telephone: 07889 [email protected]

Codicote Online 0610.indd 1 10/05/2010 18:41

ADVERTISE HERE

TO 15000 LOCAL CUSTOMERS

FROM JUST £20pm!CALL 01438 216950

Terms and conditions apply.

CODICOTE PHARMACY123 HIGH ST, CODICOTE, SG4 8UB

01438821418

• Free prescription collection & delivery service

• Flu vaccination service (book now – clinics begin in October)

• Passport photos & digital processing

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PHARMACY

now – clinics begin in October)

Wedding Disco SpecialistsTailored Wedding Discos providing the perfect end to your day.• Pre-eventmeeting• LargeMusicCollection• State-of-the-ArtSound&LightShow• BackgroundMusicthroughouttheday• CeremonyMusic• CanactasyourMC• WirelessMircophonesforSpeeches• Notanagency

CallJoseon01438 220 558 07734 387 478www.mjsevents.com

MJS Events 0611 SC.indd 1 18/05/2011 11:38

by Hannahby Hannahby Hannahby Hannahby Hannahby Hannah

Tel: 07793 975 222 or 01438 213357Email: [email protected]

www.freshandfunkyfaces.co.uk

Birthday Parties, Fairs & Fetesand Corporate Events

Fresh and Funky QPH 1110.indd 1 22/10/2010 11:00

To The RoofTV Aerials and Satellite dishes

installed by CAI Certifi ed, fully insured TV Engineer.

TV / DAB Aerial installations,

Sky Setup / upgrades / multiroom / remote extenders, Freesat

systems, Foreign channels etc...

01462 811 150 07595 985 025

www.totherooftvaerials.co.uk

Dental Implant Open EveningThursday 3rd November 2011

From 7.30pm Are you suffering from missing teeth or sore dentures? Visit NEEL DENTISTRY to find out how dental implants might be the solution you’ve been waiting for...

• Discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants, giving you the full picture• The benefits of having dental implants• Financing options available to you• Opportunity to speak to patients who have had dental implants placed about their experiences of

the procedure• Speak to our Straumann representative (leading dental implants manufacturer) about any questions

you may have

If you are interested in attending this free Patient Open Evening, please book your place by contacting the practice by email on [email protected] or call 01438 712 713 by 10th October 2011.

We look forward to welcoming you at our practice. Address: 43 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EE.

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Documents

Village Life Hitchin October 2011