The Vine Magazine MK South Online April/May 2014

the

www.thevinemagazine.com

April|May 2014

Delivered FREE to Woburn, Great Brickhill, Bletchley, Fenny Stratford, Newton Longville, Soulbury, Stoke Hammond, Drayton Parslow, Eversholt, Ridgmont & Milton Bryan

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to receive a prospectus, please contact the Registrar.

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4

CONTENT6 A Traveller’s Tale - part 1 8 Zap goes the laser 10 Auto Biographies12 Flexible Working14 A Good Read16 Kerching18 It’s the Law20 What’s Best for You22 In the Garden - up the wall24 Recipe25 Puzzles26 Looking Up26 PuzzleSolutions28 What’s On30 Traveller’s Tale -part 2

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the content of advertising and articles is published in this magazine are accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors. Neither do they reflect the opinion of this publication. The Vine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission.

Hello and welcome to the April/May edition.

I love this season, we have the Easter Holiday and the Bank Holiday to look forward to and I have made sure to include a few Easter Egg Hunts in the What’s On Guide but do remember there are lots more events on the online calendar too.

Thank you to everyone who has joined me on Facebook and Twitter since the last issue. I try and keep them both updated with all that’s on in the area so please feel free to tweet and share your events and news.

Finally don’t forget to mention The Vine when you speak to our advertisers, it helps them and me know that their advertising works.

Have a great Spring Andrenawww.thevinemagazine.com 0797 155 4604 [email protected]

twitter @thevineLBfacebook.thevinemagazine

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6

A Travellers

TaleA Brief Trip To Poland

Part II

By Paul Heley

After our first couple of days in Krakow, if the salt mines were mind blowing, Aus-

chwitz and Birkenau were mind numbing and one comes away wondering how on earth such terrible things could possibly be done by one people on another.There are information boards everywhere (in Polish, English and Hebrew - but not German) and our guide shot information and statistics at us as though from a machine gun. My head was reeling at the end and the full horror of it all has not yet completely sunk in.We started at the ironic - and sickening - entrance gate above which the infamous "Arbeit macht frei" ("Work makes you free") slogan is seen and then we visited a series of different buildings each covering various aspects of life for the prisoners :- separation areas, living quarters, punishment blocks, gas cham-bers. We were shown collec-tions of clothing, suitcases with people's names still on them, shoes, artificial limbs, masses of hair (approximately 7000 kilo-grams subsequently woven into

cloth). Particularly poignant were babies' and childrens' clothes and bootees - tiny relics of lives extinguished before they had even begun. All personal belong-ings were removed and taken to a huge sorting area called, for some inexplicable reason, Cana-da. Anything of value or use was given to the Reich command. Those who were condemned to be killed were told they were to be given a shower and de-liced. They were stripped, completely shaven, and tightly crammed into the "shower room"; the door was shut and then five small openings in the ceiling appeared from which granules of Zyklon-B impregnated with hydrogen cyanide were dropped. The gas thus given off was sufficient to kill hundreds of prisoners in one go. It was extremely "efficient" and was basically murder on an industrial scale. When in full swing, there were 8000 or 10000 killings each day - an horrific statistic. The bodies were then cremated in the ovens - but a few were burnt whilst still alive. When the crematorium couldn't keep up with the demand, bodies

were burnt outside for all to see. After cremation, any gold (as from rings or teeth) was extracted and any jewelry or precious stones were removed prior to burial in mass graves.We were shown the punishment yard with its "wall of death" for shootings and gallows for hang-ings. Prisoners disposed of here were "special"; somehow, they were either of higher status and/or were being killed as a deter-rent to others.Teutonic efficiency recorded much of what went on and, al-though the Nazis tried to destroy the evidence at the end of the war, surviving records still supply so much information today.One imagines that it was only Jews who were dealt with at Aus-chwitz. Not so. Admittedly, Jews made up the great majority but homosexuals, criminals, "anti-socials", Roma (gypsies), political prisoners, Polish intellectuals and Slavs in general (eg Russian prisoners of war) were also con-sidered to be "untermenschen" (ie sub-human) so, therefore, needed to be exterminated - for the good of society!

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8

HAIR REMOVAL GETS THE ZAP

I have to admit that I am a total wuss when it comes to undergoing beauty treatments, although I am a fully trained therapist (many years ago) even the experience of having my cuticles tidied gives me the eeby jeebies. As a trainee therapist at Henlow Grange we volunteered our bodies to each other for practice purposes but the minute I qualified I would run a mile if a wax strip was merely waved in my general direction, however, the idea of permanent hair removal was too much of a lure and so with trepidation I entered Toddington Laser Clinic.

As with my previous articles this one might be best suited to our lady readers, after all I don't want to be the one to destroy any sense of mystery or delusion about our silky smooth bodies and there are some finer points to discuss about the choices you can make when having laser hair reduction that might not be for the gentleman reader. However laser reduction is perfectly suited to men and yes even their beards!

Not to put too finer point on it (excuse the pun) but when using laser to reduce hairs in some areas, it is worth remembering that it will be permanent and therefore you may wish to venture into some careful research about shape. I say careful because it is not a subject that comes up much in conversation and when it does (I dropped it in very subtly) you will be surprised how opinionated others can be. You can, of course, use Google to explore the options but again I urge caution particularly when deciding what to write in the search bar. Again, you may be very surprised at the variety of choice from the very tame, akin to a short back and sides, to arrangements Kew Gardens would be proud of. I think that is probably enough said on the topic but you get my gist – it is permanent, choose wisely.

The Clinic is in an unassuming building through a discreet little door, it doesn't have the highly glossed appearance of some clinics but don't let this put you off, for me it was a bonus; the parking was free and

practically at the door and if, like me, you are prone to getting a bit blotchy a fast and discreet get away is desired.

Verity is the lovely and supremely knowledgeable laser therapist and she has such a calm and approachable way about her you are immediately put at your ease. I am sure she won't mind me saying that she has enough years (and children) to make you feel comfortable talking about the “areas” you would like treated. The consultation was extremely thorough and I knew exactly what to expect and what to do and not to do, before my test patch. As well as hair reduction I was having treatment to remove red veins and pigmentation from my face.

Before the treatment I had read descriptions of the sensation as being like a rubber band being pinged on you, I suppose this is true but with laser the feeling lasts for only the briefest second and is far more comfortable and bearable than waxing or epilators. This said I do have to admit that my session was quite a raucous affair.

Who knew that my reaction would be to laugh hysterically and I am afraid quite loudly with each zap. I am ashamed to say there was an element of swearing and other outbursts of noises, so much so that a visitor who had waited in the reception during my treatment later reported “I can't even imagine what was happening in there”. Verity did say (I have known her for some time) that I was the worst client she had ever had, although she laughed along quite happily too.

The sensation is “pingy” or “zappy” but it is far more comfortable than waxing and best of all the results are incredible even after the test patch. I have been back for two treatments; at first I was sceptical but two weeks after the first treatment many of the red veins and dark patches on my face had completely gone and as for the hair reduction the results have been fantastic – I won't give you the details!

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10

auto Biographies

Max speed: 171 mph 0-62 mph: 4.9 secs Combined mpg: 31.0Engine: 2995c V6 supercharged petrol Max. power (bhp): 375 at 6500 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 338 at 3500-5000 rpm CO2: 213 g/km Price: £67,520 on the road

FAST FACTS

PROS & CONS Fast√ Powerful√ Looks√Driver involvement√A strict two seaterXPricey X

By Tim Barnes-Claywww.carwriteups.co.uk

Indeed, in the automotive world, the latest Jaguar is leading the pack.

The two-seater convertible embodies a return to the company’s heartland, focusing on athleticism, dexterity and behind-the-wheel involve-ment. What's more the F-TYPE is a continuance of a sporting lineage stretching back over 75 years. The engineering philosophy fortifying the F-TYPE is focused on Jaguar’s expertise when it comes to aluminium. The metal is lightweight, so its use in the car’s architecture helps provide a perfectly balanced weight distribution. That permits the Jag’s rear-wheel drive dynamics to be exploited to the max.Three types of the Jaguar model are available: the F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and F-TYPE V8 S. Each is distinguished by the power output of its super-charged petrol engine, with all of them featuring stop/start technology to increase efficiency. My press car was the F-TYPE S, pow-ered by a new 3.0-litre V6 lump. Producing 375bhp and 338lb/ft of torque (pulling power), the car has more than enough horses and grunt to get you moving rapidly. The free-revving, willing nature of the engine encourages you to be, shall we say, enthusiastic – and I certainly tried to sample the full extent of the car’s abilities. The 0-62mph sprint comes in just 4.9 seconds and the top speed is 171mph.The feeling you get when you accelerate is similar to that of an aeroplane hurtling down the runway before take-off. You’re literally pressed into your seatback, and the smile it induces could only ever be outdone by a small child on Christ-mas morning.

And just when you think the Jaguar F-TYPE couldn’t possibly release any more endorphins into your blood-stream – you come across the sports car’s active exhaust system. With just a touch of a button you can change an already throaty sounding exhaust note into one that builds to a thrilling crescendo at the red line. Driving the F-TYPE isn’t rocket science though. It has a set of eight closely-spaced gear ratios in its Quickshift auto transmission, giving you superior control. The V6-powered S model also includes a Dynamic Launch feature, which optimises acceleration from rest.Taking cues from cockpits of fighter aeroplanes, the switches are grouped by function. Further aeronautical inspiration can be found in the joystick-shaped SportShift selector controlling the gearbox. Addition-ally, the air vents on top of the dashboard will only deploy when you instruct them to, or by complex control algorithms, staying tucked discreetly out of sight in other cir-cumstances.The concentration on driver passion and performance in the F-TYPE is highlighted by the ‘one plus one’ layout of the asymmetric cabin. This is confirmed by the grab handle which races down the centre con-sole on the passenger side, delineat-ing it from the driver’s side. The F-TYPE is, without doubt, a car that delivers precisely the key sporting characteristics that Jaguar intended. It’s definitely a big toy for big boys and girls – and it’s available from only £58,500 for the entry level, rising to £67,520 for the F-TYPE S, on to a price-tag of £79,950 for the F-TYPE V8 S.

JAGUAR F-Type

auto BIOGRAPHIES JAGUAR F-type

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Writer www.carwriteups.co.uk @carwriteups

FAST FACTS Max speed: 171mph

0-62 mph: 4.9 secs

Combined mpg: 31.0

Engine: 2995c V6 supercharged petrol

Max. power (bhp): 375 at 6500 rpm

Max. torque (Ib/ft): 338 at 3500-5000 rpm

CO2: 213 g/km

Price: £67,520 on the road

PROS ‘N’ CONS

Fast√ Powerful√

Looks√ Driver involvement√ A strict two seaterX

The jaguar is the third-largest feline after the tiger and the lion. The flesh and blood big cat has a compact body, a broad head and powerful jaws – and this describes perfectly the attributes of the new F-TYPE from Jaguar Land Rover Ltd. Indeed, in the automotive world, the latest Jaguar is leading the pack. The two-seater convertible embodies a return to the company’s heartland, focusing on athleticism, dexterity and behind-the-wheel involvement. What's more the F-TYPE is a continuance of a sporting lineage stretching back over 75 years. The engineering philosophy fortifying the F-TYPE is focused on Jaguar’s expertise when it comes to aluminium. The metal is lightweight, so its use in the car’s architecture helps provide a perfectly balanced weight distribution. That permits the Jag’s rear-wheel drive dynamics to be exploited to the max. Three types of the Jaguar model are available: the F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and F-TYPE V8 S. Each is distinguished by the power output of its supercharged petrol engine, with all of them featuring stop/start technology to increase efficiency. My press car was the F-TYPE S, powered by a new 3.0-litre V6 lump. Producing 375bhp and 338lb/ft of torque (pulling power), the car has more than enough horses and grunt to get you moving rapidly. The free-revving, willing nature of the engine encourages you to be, shall we say, enthusiastic – and I certainly tried to sample the full extent of the car’s abilities. The 0-62mph sprint comes in just 4.9 seconds and the top speed is 171mph. The feeling you get when you accelerate is similar to that of an aeroplane hurtling down the runway before take-off. You’re literally pressed into your seatback, and the smile it induces could only ever be outdone by a small child on Christmas morning. And just when you think the Jaguar F-TYPE couldn’t possibly release any more endorphins into your bloodstream – you come across the sports car’s active

exhaust system. With just a touch of a button you can change an already throaty sounding exhaust note into one that builds to a thrilling crescendo at the red line. Driving the F-TYPE isn’t rocket science though. It has a set of eight closely-spaced gear ratios in its Quickshift auto transmission, giving you superior control. The V6-powered S model also includes a Dynamic Launch feature, which optimises acceleration from rest. Taking cues from cockpits of fighter aeroplanes, the switches are grouped by function. Further aeronautical inspiration can be found in the joystick-shaped SportShift selector controlling the gearbox. Additionally, the air vents on top of the dashboard will only deploy when you instruct them to, or by complex control algorithms, staying tucked discreetly out of sight in other circumstances. The concentration on driver passion and performance in the F-TYPE is highlighted by the ‘one plus one’ layout of the asymmetric cabin. This is confirmed by the grab handle which races down the centre console on the passenger side, delineating it from the driver’s side. The F-TYPE is, without doubt, a car that delivers precisely the key sporting characteristics that Jaguar intended. It’s definitely a big toy for big boys and girls – and it’s available from only £58,500 for the entry level, rising to £67,520 for the F-TYPE S, on to a price-tag of £79,950 for the F-TYPE V8 S.

The jaguar is the third largest feline after the tiger and the lion.

The flesh and blood big cat has a compact body, a broad head and powerful jaws. This describes perfectly the attributes of the new F-TYPE from Jaguar Land Rover Ltd.

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FREE ENTRY

12

A recent study (Oct 2013) involving 750 predominantly professional women aged 35-54 has highlighted the reasons many businesses are experiencing the loss of valuable employees which in turn is costing them losses in productivity plus further investment in recruitment, training and development.

In the year when the right to request flexible working legislation will be extended to all employees, local organisation Ten2Two who specialise in finding flexible, professional people for companies to help them grow and improve their business, supported the study of their members to hear their opinions.

When asked why they resigned from their last jobOver a third said they had decided not to return to their jobs after maternity leave

Just under a third stated they left because flexible working wasn’t available to them.

80% felt they could no longer balance work with family commitments over 70% felt they couldn’t progress within their company and retain their flexibility.

Emotional and practical issues had a huge impact on the decision• they felt emotional stress and conflict on

returning from maternity leave• childcare costs make working

uneconomical• practical issues arise as children move

from full-day nursery care to 9am – 3pm school hours

• managing children at different stages of childcare e.g. one at nursery and one at school

Balancing work and parenting often results in feelings of not fully performing as an employee or fulfilling the ‘proper’ role of a mother:

“My daughter did not respond well to 50 plus hours a week in nursery” “I struggled with juggling two children, a long commute and trying to do a full-time job in three days.”

Whilst many companies do not see these issues as their problem others are recognising the need to retain valuable employees and introducing new schemes.

ASDA has launched an innovative coaching programme aimed at women returning to work after maternity leave. Ernst & Young (now EY) launched a programme of maternity coaching in 2011 in an attempt to reduce the number of talented female employees and in a bold move, HSBC

became the first large corporate in the UK to guarantee part-time work in offering all new parents a part-time role at the same level as their original role as well as other measures to ensure retention.

Companies can take some simple steps in retaining female employees, including:• Have a clear flexible working policy

supported with practical examples of it in practice

• Promote the business case and benefits internally and demonstrate successes through working case studies

• Establish senior level sponsorship and set clear company-wide management KPIs on employee retention

• Re-design the exit process to be a constructive process, ensuring retention options are explored with employees

• Provide support to line managers through HR specialists trained in flexible working patterns and retention strategies

• Make the process of requesting, considering and granting flexible working simple and inclusive and provide manager training.

The changes to the flexible working legislation later in 2014 will no doubt create debate around red-tape and restrictions on business but implemented well, we’ve seen businesses clearly benefiting from a flexible culture and a loyal, performing workforce.To find out more about the research and Ten2Two in Milton Keynes, please contact: [email protected] [email protected].

www.ten2two.org

Over 60% said their manager wouldn’t support their desire for flexible work and 60% worried they were seen as less committed by their managers.

Flexible Working

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14

A Good Read

Bridget Jones - Mad about the BoyBy Helen Fielding

For You For The Kids

Maps By Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniel Mizielinski

So Bridget is back. This time with kids and without husband - not really a spoiler, unless you have been living under a rock for the last year. Mark Darcy is dead, and our heroine is left to ‘keep buggering on’ in her own inimitable fashion.Most of the headlines as the book was published last year, focused on Darcy’s demise and on the fact that Bridget has found a toyboy. It is the first of these points that sets the tone of the book, which opens four years after the event, tempering the typical comic misunderstandings that result from a return to the dat-ing scene with a resounding sense of the intense sadness of widowhood. Mark Darcy is a constant presence, either in Bridget’s own reminiscenc-es or in the careful efforts of others to avoid mentioning him. The format is the same as

the previous two volumes, (surely there is no-one left in the country who hasn’t read them?). Bridget still counts the calories and has added an obsession with collecting Twitter followers. Some of the old faces are still there too. Jude and Tom continue to provide advice and alco-hol, whilst Daniel Cleaver is a not-quite-reformed godfather to Billy and Mabel. And Bridget’s mum may have retired, but is far from retiring...Of course, the plot twists may be obvious from the outset, but as ever, the fact that we genuinely care about the characters keeps us reading and keeps us involved. Some readers may never forgive Helen Fielding for spoiling our illusions that Bridget and Mark Darcy would live hap-pily ever after, but others will find this both amusing, mov-ing and, at times, uplifting.

Every home should have a good atlas - for a child there is little better than travelling the world by turning the pages. ‘Maps’ is not exactly an atlas, but for any child wanting to embark on their own adven-ture of the imagination, it is an absolute must have.For a start it is a big book – in A3 format, almost designed for lying on the floor and gazing at. Each page covers a country, with beautiful illustrations of key cities, wildlife, landmarks and peoples. Two children from that country feature, and there are facts about languages and population. Quite simply, you could stare at each page for hours. William Morris famously said that you should have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful. This book is both. Buy it.

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CelebratingFounded on tradition. Looking to the future.

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16

By Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Would you like Any Cashback Today?

You can listen to The JVS Show every weekday morning from 9am on BBC Three Counties Radio

Consumer Clinic

The internet has of course brought some unwanted problems, but it has also brought some incredible benefits to us consumers. One of those benefits is the creation of ‘Cashback’ websites. Gosh I love them! In fact, I frequently bore people senseless telling them about the important of logging on and saving ££££ on your purchases.

If you haven’t come across the likes of ‘Quidco’ or ‘TopCashback’ before, let me explain how they work.

Cashback websites pay you a cash fee when purchasing goods or services via their website. The amount of cashback is gen-erally a percentage of the total you spend with the retailer. They tend to make their fee from the companies that they suggest on their site. Many of these are well known high street branches, some are lesser known retailers. They normally transfer the cash-back you’ve earned directly into your bank account as soon as they receive it. So it’s a win win for the consumer. They also provide voucher codes for thousands of retailers so you can gain discounts at the online checkout.All you have to do is:

1Register with one or more cashback site.

2 When you decide you want to make an online purchase

of a product or service, log into the cashback site, search the cashback rates available and follow the link to the company’s website.

3Make the purchase, and wait for the cashback to arrive in

your bank account (it normally takes at least a few weeks and should be tracked automati-cally).

Let me give you a couple of examples (chosen at random at the time of writing):It’s time to renew your car insurance. You get some online quotes and find that Tesco Insurance is offering you the best deal. You could of course just take out a policy with them directly on their website. That would be fairly silly though, because by going to Tesco In-surance via a cashback website, you would receive a cashback lump sum payment of £75 after completing the purchase. By going to them directly, you would have missed out on a £75 saving.You need a new washing machine. You find one you like at Currys. Again, you could just purchase it directly on the Currys website, but by going via a cashback website like Quidco or TopCashBack, you would stand to make 2% cashback on

the total purchase price. That would be £8 back on a £400 washing machine. Better than a slap round the face with a wet fish eh?!You can make additional money by referring your friends and relatives to the sites as well. I always say that you don’t get anything in this world for free. So how do the companies that offer the cashback benefit from this? Well, they gain because you’re more likely to buy from the retailers that are listed with those cashback sites.The important thing is to re-member to use the site. Which-ever online purchase you need to make: flights, insurance, elec-trical goods, perfume, clothes, wine or groceries, always go via a cashback website and start saving. I always remember and since I started using cashback websites 2 years ago and have already made £237.38. So go get yourself some free cashback!

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18

IT’S THE LAW!

The only way to make sure your assets are distributed in line with your wishes is to have a Will. However it is always best to seek legal advice when looking to make a Will. Homemade Wills often contain mistakes and without advice may not be the most tax efficient way to deal with an estate. Although Will Writers may be cheaper they do not undergo the intensive training or have the professional indemnity insurance that solicitors have, they also are less likely to be well versed in tax planning advice.

Here are some examples of problems that we have had to unravel for clients when their loved ones have left home-made Wills.

Bob’s StoryBob made his a Will with a Will Pack however this meant he received no legal advice as to what might happen should his circumstances change. This Will was made prior to Bob’s new relationship and the birth of his youngest son, Jack. The Will therefore only benefited Bob’s children from his first relationship. Luckily, the other beneficiaries agreed to vary the Will to include Jack, something they had no legal obligation to do. A Deed of Variation was drafted for them which incurred additional legal fees to rectify the problem. This was far more expensive and stressful than if the Bob had a professional make the Will. Jack was lucky that his half-brothers were so happy to make sure he benefitted. Things can’t always be rectified so easily.

Jane’s StoryJane made her Will at home however when she signed the Will only one witness was present, the Will was therefore invalid so we had to

rely on the ancient intestacy laws when she passed away. These provisions step in when someone dies without a Will. Jane died leaving an estranged husband and two daughters. She had been separated from her husband for 2 years and he was in a new relationship. Despite this the intestacy laws stated that the first £250,000 of her estate, all of her personal belongings and a life interest in the other half of what was left over passed to him. This was her entire estate, which meant her daughters, who were only in their early 20s, received nothing despite the fact they both lived with their mother and were in full time education. The property was inherited by their father and they were kicked out of their mother’s home.

The daughters were able to successfully bring a claim against Jane’s estate as they needed reasonable financial provision. They received maintenance from their mother’s estate although without a valid Will we will never be able to enforce Jane’s wishes.

Solicitors are able to provide you with tax planning advice when making your Will, are covered by professional indemnity insurance and can securely store your original Will and the original file and notes in the event a dispute arises after you have passed away. Often the Partners are able to act as Executors if you do not have a suitable person in mind. Solicitors are able to administer the estate in a cost effective manner lifting the burden from family members at this difficult time.

Camilla Haggith Camilla Haggith is a solicitor in the Wills Trusts and Probate Department at Osborne Morris & Morgan01525 378177

The Perils of DIY Wills

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See Website For Details It’s the anniversary of The Stani Art Company which includes 2 Art Galleries, Tea Rooms and provides Art & Craft classes in Stony Stratford. As a thank you to their customers and supporters, there will be a week of celebrations with great offers, demonstrations by art tutors from The Stani Studios as well as painting in the shop window by artists from The Stani Gallery and The Stani Art House.Make sure you visit and join in the fun !See website – www.staniart.co.uk - for further details

20

What ’s Best For You By Martin LewisMartin LEWIS Tackle your bills

Winter is coming. Don’t wait until you’re knee-deep in the white stuff to sort your bills. Here, prevention truly beats cure – tackling your bills now means you can take the financial bite out of winter chills…

Free loft insulation and even boilers (for some). While the loft insulation free-for-all's ended, some will still be entitled to some serious free energy-saving measures. Most of the big six energy firms offer free boilers, typically worth £2,000, and free insulation, usually worth about £300. Crucially, you don't need to be with the energy provider to get it, but you do generally need an income under £16,000, and to be on income-related benefits or pension credit. I can’t definitely say you’ll qualify, but it is worth checking. Alternatively, the well-meaning but stuttering Green Deal initiative is designed to let you pay for things like underfloor heating, double glazing and solid wall insulation, from the 'savings' you make on energy bills. Deciding whether it’s right for you is complex, so for full help read www.moneysavingexpert.com/greendeal

Save £100s and beat the hikes. Rather surprisingly, fixing energy, where you lock in a set rate, is now cheaper than a normal switch. Five of the big six energy providers have now announced hikes, and their best new prices are costlier than the cheapest fixed tariffs. So right now you can get the very cheapest deals available, and it comes with no-hike certainty. The only exception to this is a variable (ie, subject to hikes) tariff from minnow Spark Energy – though it hasn't hiked (yet?), needs paying upfront, and feedback ain't great, so I’m ignoring it.

The cheapest fix comes from E.on for a year, but slightly longer and only a touch more are deals from EDF or Npower. Crucially, these two have no exit penalties. So on the off-chance the Prime Minister delivers the price cuts he’s promised, and the even more unlikely event that they’ll be so substantial that other tariffs elsewhere are cheaper, you'll be free to leave.

However, always do the numbers for your own circumstances. To check if you can save (you may be on an older, cheaper deal), and who your winner is, you can use my Cheap Energy Club top fixes comparison at www.cheapenergyclub.com, or do a standard

comparison on any Ofgem-approved comparison site – just search for The Confidence Code at www.ofgem.gov.uk to see the full list. If you're not online, use a comparison with a phone service, such as Energyhelpline on 0800 074 0745, or uSwitch on 0800 051 5493.

Paying energy bills by monthly direct debit’s up to 6% cheaper. If you can, do, as it’ll usually mean discounted bills of up to 6% less, so contact your provider to check. Though always do regular meter readings for accuracy, as your bill is estimated. If it’s too high, you have a right to ask for it to be lowered.

Got electricity only? You can still save. With electricity only, you can still get a cheap fix to save - just follow the info above. For those on Economy 7, assessing is trickier. It’s only really a boon for those who use at least 40% of their energy at night. If not – don’t bother. Full help to decide at www.mse.me/eco7

Can you find your stopcock? No sniggering - winter frozen pipe bursts can create an average £7,000 of damage, often worsened as many scrabble round searching for their stopcock - the mains water off switch - for ages as their home floods.

Take the time to find it now – mine is under the kitchen sink. Others find theirs in the bathroom or inside a cupboard. If yours isn’t working, you may want to call a plumber now, before it’s a problem.

Choosing between heating and eating? If you're seriously behind, or in general financial hardship - as far too many are after the hikes - you may be eligible for special help. Call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 to check. Plus if anyone in your home was born on or before 5 January 1952, you're due up to £300 in tax-free winter fuel payments. Payments should be made automatically, but if you’ve never had it before then you may need to register - see www.gov.uk.

Plus anyone on specific income support, jobseekers' allowances or pension credit gets £25 in cold weather payments for every 7 days it's sub-0 C.

@MoneySavingExpert

This is a golden time for those in debt. While that may seem a strange thing to say, the best EVER deals for cutting loan, store or credit card costs are now on the market. So if you’ve existing

debts, a little bit of action could save you £100s or £1,000s.

The aim is to cut the interest rate you pay, so more of your repayments clear the debt rather than servicing the interest, so you're debt-free far quicker.

STOP BORROWING Borrowing more just makes the problem costlier and longer-lived. You can’t borrow your way out of debt. The tips below are about getting new products, not bor-rowing more.

CREDIT & STORE CARD DEBT Shift to 31mths 0%. If you've debts on cards, do a balance transfer. This is where you ask a new card to pay off debts on other cards, so you owe it instead, hopefully at a cheaper rate. To get a card, you must pass a credit score. Usually the only way to find out is to apply, which marks your file. To get round that, find which card’s most likely to accept you with my free Eligibility Checker at www.mse.me/eligibility Follow the balance transfer golden rules: a) Always repay at least the set monthly minimum, or you lose special rates. b) Always plan to shift the debt again or fully repay before the 0% ends, or these cards' rates jump to 18.9% and 17.9% representative APR. c) Don't spend on these cards – it's usually not at the same cheap rate.

LOAN DEBT: Can you cut the cost?This is more difficult, as most old loans charge up to two months' interest to repay early, which needs factoring in. It's worth trying if you can get a much lower APR loan (ie, more than a fifth off) and have a while left to repay – especially if your credit score's improved since getting the loan.

OVERDRAFTS/CATALOGUES: Shift to 0% If you've a costly overdraft or need to put money in a bank account to pay off catalogue debts, there’s a way to use a credit card for this. A few balance transfer cards let newbies 'money transfer' cash into your bank account, so you then owe the card instead.

You could, of course, find a 0% overdraft. Both First Direct and Nationwide offer this if you switch to them, but the amounts offered are usually limited.

DON'T REPAY ALL DEBTS EQUALLY Attack the highest APR first. Once your debts are as cheap as possible, list them all, including overdrafts, in order of APR. Then focus every penny on clearing the highest APR one as it grows fast-est, just paying the minimum on the others. Once that's clear, move to the next highest. The more you pay off, the better. If you just stick to minimum repayments, you’ll take years or decades to be debt-free (they're designed so you just clear the interest). The exception to the ‘highest APR first’ rule is loans with penalties for overpaying early. SET UP A DIRECT DEBIT This will help protect your credit score. Forget or make late repayments and you risk losing 0% deals, being fined and suffering a hit on your credit score. So set up a direct debit to cover at least the monthly minimum, then manually pay more on top each month.

GOT BOTH DEBTS AND SAVINGS? STOP! £1,000 credit card debt at 18% costs £180 a year, while the same amount saved in top paying savings earns just £15 before tax. If you’re thinking “yes, but I like some spare cash”, this is often false security. More at www.mse.me/ClearDebtsWithSavings

FREE DEBT CRISIS HELP While my tips above should help cut the cost of debt, for some people that isn’t enough. If you're struggling to meet your minimum repayments and basic bills, have non-mortgage debts bigger than a year's salary, or can’t sleep for worry, you're likely to be in debt crisis. If so, ignore the options above and contact a non-profit debt advice service that uses a different set of solutions, such as StepChange (stepchange.org), Citizens Advice (citizensadvice.org.uk) or National Debtline (national-debtline.co.uk). Don’t worry, they’re there to help, not judge.

Recover From Debt

ampness caused by excessive condensation can lead to mould growth on walls and furniture, mildew on clothes and the rotting of wooden window frames …

mould is unsightly, damages property and can be detrimental to health.First steps against mould growth. We need to treat the mould already present in your home, then deal with the basic problem of condensation to stop mould reappearing:There are FOUR main factors that cause condensation:1. Too much moisture being produced in the home2. Not enough ventilation3. Cold surfaces4. The temperature of your homeYou need to look at all of these factors to cure a condensation problem.Our everyday activities add extra moisture to the air inside our

homes. Even our breathing adds moisture. Apparently one person asleep adds half a pint of water to the air during the night. (We recommend that you do not stop breathing !!!)To give you some idea of as to how much extra water this could be in a day, here are a few examples:• A bath or a shower - 2 pints• Drying clothes indoors - 9 pints• Cooking and use of a kettle - 6 pints• Bottled gas heater (8 hours use) - 4 pintsIf you have a condensation and mould problem in your home, whether you are a home owner or a landlord, we are happy to advise and will provide a free estimate for any remedial work that may be required.

Controlling condensation and mould in the home

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22

In The Garden

Up The Wall

Whether it’s as fast growing as a Triffid, a dainty floral twiner, or an evergreen

clinger, I’m certain there’s a climber out there for you, it’s just a case of meeting your perfect

match.For those of you lucky enough to have a south-facing doorway, why not

spoil yourself with the highly scented fragrance of Star

Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasmi-noides). Not only is it evergreen, but it boasts the added benefit of a claret-red leaf colour in autumn. For those with a north-facing en-trance, how about a plant combo starting with an early flowering Clematis tolerant of shade, such as ‘Frances Rivis’, followed by the stunning pink flowers of Rosa ‘Zephirine Drouhin’, perfect in shade with the added bonus of being a thornless variety.If it’s a shady spot and a fast growing evergreen you require you really can’t beat Ivy, but I understand many people are not huge fans, so why not put in the extra effort and seek out a great alternative known as Pileostegia viburnoides. It’s a bit of a mouth-ful but not only is it evergreen, it will provide white flowers in sum-mer and like Ivy is a self clinger, but nowhere near as vigorous.As well as the other common examples, such as Wisteria (only plant this in full sun and if you are prepared to tie it in and prune it twice annually), Honeysuckle

and Pyracantha (great for deter-ring intruders due to its woody thorns), there is a whole range of other shrubs which can be grown against a wall or fence, not forgetting trees of course, such as the beautiful trained fruit trees we often see in Victorian walled gardens.Shrubs planted at around 30cm away from the base of the wall or fence can be manually tied in and make excellent wall cover, often with the added benefit of flowers. Photinia ‘Red Robin’ for example, or Garrya elliptica make unusual evergreen wall coverings, and look great with a second flowering climber twining through. Don’t forget the huge variety of annuals available which you can grow from seed, such as Sweet Peas, Morning Glory, or maybe try climbing French beans as an edible wall covering?Do ensure that you provide sturdy wires for plants to travel up. The best and most cost-effective way is simply to fix vine eyes (spaced horizontally around 2m apart) to the fence or wall and vertically at 30cm intervals. Then use a taught network of galvanised wires to provide support. Be sure to tie climbers in horizontally and not vertically as most people do … this way they will look great in your garden rather than flopping over the fence and delighting your neighbour. Now that really would drive me up the garden wall!

If your garden is short on space, rammed with plants, or you simply have an unsightly vertical surface to cover, climbing plants can be used to great effect: from clothing frameworks such as

pergolas and arches to hiding sheds and even neighbours!

Sow new lawns or repair bare patches.

Protect fruit blossom from late frosts.

If any of your plants need support this year, put the supports in now so the plants grow up through them.

Check any tree ties to make sure the tie is not cutting into the trunk. Loosen any that are tight to allow room to expand.

Once the soil has warmed up, weed borders and apply a moisture-retaining mulch such as compost or bark.

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24

Tastes so good... ROAST SEA BASS WITH A LEMON & GARLIC CRUST

Perfect for a simple lunch or a dinner party with friends, this main course is an easy crowd pleaser, looks great on the plate and is a wonderful dish to serve with vegetables or salad alike.

Ingredients : 4 skinned fillets sea bass, washed under running water 3 unwaxed lemons 4 cloves garlic Small bunch of washed fresh parsley 25g butter 30g wholemeal bread 50ml extra virgin olive oil Salt & pepper

Equipment: Small processor or mortar and pestle Oven: Gas Mark 5, 190°c Method: Brush undersides with olive oil and season fish all over with salt and pepper. Zest one of the lemons and squeeze juice. Wedge the other lemon for garnish. Whizz garlic with lemon juice and zest. Once no more large pieces can be seen, add the parsley, bread and butter to the processor. Quite quickly you should produce a moist and very tasty breadcrumb mixture. Press this mixture firmly onto the upper side of the fillets. Roast for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crust is brown. Serve with whatever takes your fancy!

Diane Johnson

Tastes so good... PARSNIP QUICHE WITH BLUE CHEESE

This dish can be eaten hot or cold and it’s great for lunch boxes. You can use up leftover cooked veg from the Sunday roast instead of the freshly cooked parsnip. Sweet potato or

carrot can be exchanged for the parsnip.

Equipment: 23cm / 9 inch buttered/greased loose bottomed flan dish. Rolling pin

Method: Make the pastry by rubbing the butter into the flour until it resembles bread crumbs. Add sufficient water to bring the pastry together into a ball without it being sticky and leave to rest for half an hour covered in the fridge.

Cook the parsnip in boiling water until soft. Leave to cool. Fry off the shallot until soft. Set to one side to cool. Line a 9 inch greased flan dish with the rested pastry. Prick the bottom of the base gently with a fork to stop air bubbles forming. Bake blind (this will avoid the famous "soggy bottom"!) by crumpling baking parchment and placing it in the pastry case being careful not to tear the pastry. Then fill with ceramic baking beans spreading them out evenly. Cook at 450º F for 20 minutes until lightly brown and a little crisp.

Remove the paper and beans. Whilst the pastry case is cooking beat the eggs together and add the creme fraiche and milk, incorporating all together with a whisk. Puree or mash the parsnip with the spice or korma and gradually add to the egg mixture until thoroughly mixed. Once the pastry case has come out of the oven dot the base with the blue cheese, onion and ham. Pour the egg mixture into the pastry case and bake on 180ºC for 45 minutes, or until the centre doesn’t wobble. Diane Johnson

Ingredients:

Shortcrust pastry: 100g salted butter 200g plain flour 4-5 tbps cold water

Filing: 200g parsnip, peeled & sliced 1 shallot, diced 3 eggs 175ml crème fraiche 290ml milk 1/2 tsp mixed spice or korma curry powder 50g good blue cheese 50g ham or cooked bacon

Tastes so good... PARSNIP QUICHE WITH BLUE CHEESE

This dish can be eaten hot or cold and it’s great for lunch boxes. You can use up leftover cooked veg from the Sunday roast instead of the freshly cooked parsnip. Sweet potato or


Equipment: 23cm / 9 inch buttered/greased loose bottomed flan dish. Rolling pin

Method: Make the pastry by rubbing the butter into the flour until it resembles bread crumbs. Add sufficient water to bring the pastry together into a ball without it being sticky and leave to rest for half an hour covered in the fridge.

Cook the parsnip in boiling water until soft. Leave to cool. Fry off the shallot until soft. Set to one side to cool. Line a 9 inch greased flan dish with the rested pastry. Prick the bottom of the base gently with a fork to stop air bubbles forming. Bake blind (this will avoid the famous "soggy bottom"!) by crumpling baking parchment and placing it in the pastry case being careful not to tear the pastry. Then fill with ceramic baking beans spreading them out evenly. Cook at 450º F for 20 minutes until lightly brown and a little crisp.

Remove the paper and beans. Whilst the pastry case is cooking beat the eggs together and add the creme fraiche and milk, incorporating all together with a whisk. Puree or mash the parsnip with the spice or korma and gradually add to the egg mixture until thoroughly mixed. Once the pastry case has come out of the oven dot the base with the blue cheese, onion and ham. Pour the egg mixture into the pastry case and bake on 180ºC for 45 minutes, or until the centre doesn’t wobble. Diane Johnson

Ingredients:

Shortcrust pastry: 100g salted butter 200g plain flour 4-5 tbps cold water

Filing: 200g parsnip, peeled & sliced 1 shallot, diced 3 eggs 175ml crème fraiche 290ml milk 1/2 tsp mixed spice or korma curry powder 50g good blue cheese 50g ham or cooked bacon

Ingredients

2 aubergines2 tbsp sunflower oil, plus extra to serve, if you like1 tbsp brown or black mustard seeds10-12 curry leaves, plus extra to serve, if you like2 onions, finely chopped2 dried chillies, chopped4 tsp garam masala2 tsp ground coriander2 tsp turmeric400ml can coconut milk6 tomatoes, quartered400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

Method

Chop the aubergine into large chunks (about 1 inch / 2.5cm across). Heat ½ tbsp oil in a large non-stick pan, and brown half the aubergine chunks for 2-3 mins on each side until golden brown and crisp all over. Remove to a plate, then repeat with another ½ tbsp oil and the remaining aubergines, then set everything aside.Add the remaining tbsp oil to the pan with the mustard seeds and curry leaves and fry for 30 secs until fragrant. Stir in the onions and continue cooking until they are softened and beginning to brown. Add the dried chillies and spices with a spoonful of the thick coconut milk from the top of the can, then fry for 1 min more. Add the remaining coconut milk, tomatoes and half a can of water. Simmer for 25-30 mins until thick and saucy.Stir in the chickpeas and aubergines. Continue simmering for 5 mins or so, until everything is hot and the aubergines are tender. Serve with rice or warm naan bread.

Tastes so good...

PARSNIP Q

UICHE W

ITH BLUE CHEESE

This dish can be eaten hot or cold and it’s great for lunch boxes. You can use up leftover cooked veg from

the Sunday roast instead of the freshly cooked parsnip. Sweet potato or


Equipment: 23cm

/ 9 inch buttered/greased loose bott

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Cook the parsnip in boiling water until soft. Leave to cool. Fry off the shallot

until soft. Set to one side to cool. Line a 9 inch greased flan dish with the

rested pastry. Prick the bottom

of the base gently with a fork to stop air

bubbles forming. Bake blind (this w

ill avoid the famous "soggy bott

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Remove the paper and beans. W

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mixture into the pastry case and bake on 180ºC for 45 m

inutes, or until the centre doesn’t w

obble. Diane Johnson

Ingredients: Shortcrust pastry: 100g salted butt

er 200g plain flour 4-5 tbps cold w

ater Filing: 200g parsnip, peeled &

sliced 1 shallot, diced 3 eggs 175m

l crème fraiche

290ml m

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a curry pow

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or cooked bacon

Preparation time: 20 mins. Cooking time: 50 mins. Serves 6

Join in National Vegetarian Week (19th-25th May) with our light and tasty curry

Aubergine And Chickpea Curry

PuzzlesPuzzlesPuzzles

Across 1. Careless, offhand (6) 4. Stadium (5) 8. Excuse (5) 9. Ordinary, mediocre (7)10. Resident of Birmingham (slang) (7)11. Add (4)12. Perch, squat (3)14. Heroic (4)15. Cereal, porridge (4)18. Belongs to him (3)21. Finishes (4)23. Disclose, reveal (7)25. Gym shoe (7)26. Vapour, exhaust (5)27. Arrive, get there (5)28. Aggravation, difficulty (6)

Down 1. Tetchy (6) 2. Ramp used in winter sport (3,4) 3. Unreasonable, unfair (idiom) (1,3,4) 4. Elderly (4) 5. Digital message (5) 6. Comfortable, relaxed (2,4) 7. Raises arm in friendly fashion (5)13. Back and forth (2,3,3)16. Victory (7)17. Clown (6)19. Frighten (5)20. Not as big, smaller (6)22. Play, production (5)24. 2.54cm (4)

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By Seb Jay

in April and May 2014

Looking Up In Beds & Bucks!

The Night Sky

Dark Sky Telescope Hire [email protected]

Catch Mars At Its Best For 2014: April and May this year is a great time to view Mars through a telescope. The Red Planet reaches opposition on April 8th, and so is at its biggest and brightest for 2014. In April look to the south east sky as soon as it gets dark for a bright orange coloured ‘star’. Through the evening Mars climbs higher into the sky and swings over towards the south. By May Mars can be found more than 30-degrees above the horizon towards the south in the late evening twilight. In a telescope you’ll see the Red Planet’s ice cap, and dark markings on the Martian surface.

Watch The Lyrids Meteor Shower: The maximum of this year’s Lyrids Meteor Shower falls on April 22nd. Expect to see up to 25 shoot-ing stars per hour flashing across the night sky between midnight and dawn on the 22nd, and again once it is dark on the evening of the 22nd. Look high up to the east for your best view of the Shower.

Get A Glimpse Of Saturn In The Evening Sky: Saturn follows Mars into the evening sky this year. By Mid April the ringed planet is rising in the south east by 11pm. Come Mid May it is already 10-degrees above the south east horizon by the time it gets dark. In a telescope Saturn looks spec-tacular. You can see the planet’s rings, markings in Saturn’s atmosphere and some of the planet’s

Scetch of Mars through a telescope.

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By Seb Jay

in April and May 2014

Looking Up In Beds & Bucks!

The Night Sky

Dark Sky Telescope Hire [email protected]

Catch Mars At Its Best For 2014: April and May this year is a great time to view Mars through a telescope. The Red Planet reaches opposition on April 8th, and so is at its biggest and brightest for 2014. In April look to the south east sky as soon as it gets dark for a bright orange coloured ‘star’. Through the evening Mars climbs higher into the sky and swings over towards the south. By May Mars can be found more than 30-degrees above the horizon towards the south in the late evening twilight. In a telescope you’ll see the Red Planet’s ice cap, and dark markings on the Martian surface.

Watch The Lyrids Meteor Shower: The maximum of this year’s Lyrids Meteor Shower falls on April 22nd. Expect to see up to 25 shoot-ing stars per hour flashing across the night sky between midnight and dawn on the 22nd, and again once it is dark on the evening of the 22nd. Look high up to the east for your best view of the Shower.

Get A Glimpse Of Saturn In The Evening Sky: Saturn follows Mars into the evening sky this year. By Mid April the ringed planet is rising in the south east by 11pm. Come Mid May it is already 10-degrees above the south east horizon by the time it gets dark. In a telescope Saturn looks spec-tacular. You can see the planet’s rings, markings in Saturn’s atmosphere and some of the planet’s

Scetch of Mars through a telescope.

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28

April5th Beacon-Rail 2014 Tring & District MRCPitstone Memorial Hall, Vicarage Road, Pitstone, LU7 9EY.10.30am-16.30pm Admission: adult £2.50, child £1.50, family (2+2) £6.00. Refreshments. Access for disabled visitors. Free car parking Members and visiting layouts, preservation, and trade.Contact: 01442 824350 www.tdmrc.co.uk

7th-18th 10am-4pm An Eggcellent Treat!This Easter, children can come along to Frosts Garden Centre at Woburn Sands for a fun two-part Easter themed activity – which includes chocolate of course! Children will begin with an ‘Easter Hunt’ that will lead them around the Garden Centre to the party room where they will be greeted by the Easter Bunny and receive their chocolate prize. The second part of the activity is Easter egg decorating; each child will get their very own chocolate Easter egg which they can embellish with icing and

sweets.Suitable for children of all ages. Not available Saturday12th/Sunday13th April. Tickets cost £5.99 (which includes refreshments)Frosts Garden Centre at Woburn Sands, Newport Road, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK17 8UE

15th EASTER BUNNY HUNT Join the rangers for Easter fun games, activities and a visit from The Parks Trust bunny. Booking essential. Park in the car park on Merlewood Drive, off V2 Tattenhoe Street. Shenley Wood 10am – 12pm £3/child

18th-22nd Cadbury Easter Egg TrailJoin us for an exciting egg hunt with our sponsors Cadburys. Complete our trail exploring the Downs and win a yummy Cadburys chocolate egg! There’ll be lots of family Easter fun happening too, all in the glorious surroundings of Dunstable Downs. More Information: Chilterns Gateway Centre Shop, 01582 500925, [email protected]

WHAT’S ON? so much we can’t fit it all in! The online calendar is updated regularly

www.thevinemagazine.com/whats-on Include your event: email [email protected]

My name is Carol and I nearly died in 2012 from an undiagnosed brain tumour. Since recovering I have spent some of my time raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity as I was shocked to learn of the small amount of funding Government puts into research and support of this condition. In 2013 a fantastic team of friends and family, The Greensand Ridge Rovers, raised over £6000 by walking the 47 mile

long Greensand Ridge in Bedfordshire over 3 days.The Greensand Ridge Rovers will be walking either half marathon distance (13 m) or for the bravest, marathon (26m) . Please support their efforts to once again raise funds for TBTC in 2014 to help beat this terrifying condition.They will start at its beginning in Leighton Buzzard and finish either just beyond Woburn or near Clophill.

GREENSAND RIDGE ROVERSMARATHON WALK

Saturday 26th April 2014www.justgiving.com/teams/greensandridgewalk

HULA Animal Rescue

Follow us on @hularescue

All proceeds for the care and welfare of HULA’s animals Help HULA help Animals Registered Charity 1094115

01908 584000 www.hularescue.org [email protected]

Glebe Farm, Salford Road, Aspley GuiseMK17 8HZ (Between M1 Junction 13 and Woburn Sands, near Aspley Guise Rail Station)

Easter Egg Hunt

Easter Bonnet Competition

* Meet the animals seeking a new home * Fun and Games for the children * Delicious refreshments * Bargains in the bazaar and pet bed shed - children’s toys, books & clothes and pre-loved pet accessories

27th Mentmore Village Green Plant Sale12-5pm to be held on Mentmore Village Green. Barbeque, cake stall and refreshments will be available on the Green. Call Jonathan 07707 218 719 or Sue 01525 372757 Entrance £1 includes free prize draw (Children free) www.mentmore.org

MaySat 3 MAY DAY FESTIVAL Dance around the May Pole and celebrate May Day at our annual fair. Fun for all the family with Morris Dancers, children’s entertainment, stalls and fair rides. Recommended parking located along Silbury Boulevard. Campbell Park Canalside 12pm – 5pm Free

4th and 5th, 17th Bedfordshire Classic Motor ShowHundreds of classic vehicles, in beautiful surroundings, including Saloons, Sports, American, Commercial, Military, Classic Motorcycles plus Kit, Custom, Replica, PLUS Club Displays. All pre-booked vehicles on display receive a commemorative brass plaque Concours takes place on the Bank Holiday

Monday Autojumble, Trade, General & Craft Stands Children’s Entertainment and reduced admission to house, gardens and park.Adults £8 Children £4 (4-16 years) Woburn Abbey Bedfordshire MK17 9WA

7th Family History Talk: A E Housman, A Shropshire Lad This talk by Julian Hunt covers the family history of the poet A E Housman and includes material from Lancashire, Leicestershire, Cambridge, London, Devon, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire; in fact, almost everywhere except Shropshire! The time period is from around 1750 to 1936.7.15pm for 7.30pm. Free; non-members of Buckinghamshire Family History Society are very welcome; a small donation will be appreciated.Methodist Church Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK2 2HB

25th Luton International Carnival 2014With spectacular colourful costumes, music from around the globe, street entertainers and international food to tickle your taste buds, it will be a truly unmissable day. Put the date in your diary and get ready to enjoy a fantastic free family day out, a truly multicultural event, outstanding carnival arts and great entertainment! Please visit our website for more information: www.carnivalarts.org.ukFree. Luton Town Centre Bedfordshire LU1 2LJ telephone: 01582 437100

24-26th Mentmore Arts Festival. 11am-5pm daily. £2 Adults includes catalogue, Under 16’s FREE. Refreshments available. www.mentmoreartsfestival.co.uk 07831 707023

WHAT’S ON? so much we can’t fit it all in! The online calendar is updated regularly

www.thevinemagazine.com/whats-on Include your event: email [email protected]

Craft Fair

FREE ADMISSION

Woburn Village Hall, Beds All Local Handmade items SUNDAY

April 20th & May 18th& every 3rd Sunday in the monthsame as Farmers’ Market

FREE CAR PARKING

CCC

Crafts - Cake & a Cuppa

www.ccc-craftfairs.co.uk

10.00AM - 4.00PM

Flower Festival

3rd-5th May10.30-4pm daily

1st Festival in

10 yearsSt Luke’s Church, Stoke Hammond11am Sunday 4 May.For the first time in many decades the village will host, Bishop Alan, The Bishop of Buckingham, who will be taking a United Family Service

Admission by programme £2, children up to 14 free.

10.30am Sat 3rd MayOfficial opening by The Rt. Hon John Bercow, MP, Speaker of the House of Commons when the church will be open for viewing and also a Plant and Craft Fair by local crafts people.

visitingorganists

Teas, Coffees, and light lunches will be available.

30

A Travellers Tale (Continued)

Upon arrival at Auschwitz, and after having travelled for days in unimaginably squalid conditions in cattle trucks, there was an im-mediate separation; first into male versus female and then into those fit enough to work - the consider-able minority - and those not. These latter, ie pregnant women, women with children, the young, the old, the sick, the infirm, were immediately taken off to the gas chambers. These were, perhaps,

the lucky ones since those kept back for slave labour were subject to bestial treatment at the hands of the SS guards (or their help-ers - often other prisoners, or Nazi sympathisers from the local community), long hours of work, cruel punishments (including floggings where 25 lashes was the norm), appalling accommodation, and very little (poor quality) food. Some were subjected to barbaric medical "experiments" particularly designed for the German Luft-waffe (Air Force) where the effects upon the human body of long exposure to icy water and super low atmospheric pressure were discovered: it was carefully noted how long it took people to die on average under such conditions. Also experiments involving the deliberate infection with malaria, typhus and spotted fever were con-ducted alongside the study of the effect of gas and phosphorus burns, attempts at bone transplants and mass sterilisation of women. Gen-erally speaking, those who were not killed immediately survived for three months - another ghastly statistic. But some, miraculously,

lived on to tell their horrific story to the world.After Auschwitz, we went the short distance to Birkenau. This was Auschwitz on a massive scale and was, essentially, nothing more than an extermination camp. We saw the toilet block - disgusting in its total lack of any semblance of

privacy - and billets where prison-ers slept in bunks three deep and two or three persons per individual bunk. One thin, lice ridden, blan-ket was issued to each bunk. There were scores of these bunks - hundreds of people - housed in a single wooden shed with a leaking roof and broken windows both of which which let in rain and snow so that some froze to death. It must have been hell on earth.Whereas the buildings at Aus-chwitz were brick built (being a former Polish army camp), each billet at Birkenau was wooden and originally meant to stable 50 horses. Eventually, there were more than 300 of these delapi-

dated wooden sheds housing thou-sands of prisoners. It is reckoned that somewhere between 1.1 and 1.6 million killings took place at Auschwitz and Birkenau alone: some people think the actual number to be much higher. There are, however, those - some in this country - who claim the Holocaust never happened at all and that sto-ries such as the above have been deliberately fabricated. I came away feeling completely sickened and wondering how the German people could ever sink so low knowing that some repre-sentatives of their country (the SS) carried out these atrocities. The ev-erlasting tragedy is that the majority of the population simply turned a blind eye and condoned them.I asked our guide what was the reaction of German visitors to what they had seen. She (a Pole) answered "the correct one" - an enigmatic response. I also noticed the usual swarms of Japanese tour-ists and wondered what they might think having had a similar history of dealing out atrocity themselves. No doubt younger Japanese have no knowledge of this ter-rible episode in their past since it is suppressed and not taught in their schools. But what do older Japanese visitors think, ie those old enough to know the truth?Being of this generation myself, I find it hard to forget - and even more difficult to forgive - since there are so many horrific pictures and snippets of information still in my mind. I have two books dealing with Auschwitz and some of the quotes, comments and accounts are even more harrowing than the photographs themselves - they turn me inside out with the horror of it all.It will take ages for the full story to sink in - if it ever does - but I am pleased that to have visited and ex-perienced this place. I felt I owed it to myself to go there.

I am convinced that the activities organised by ATE really do help raise self-esteem and build motivation among young people in a way that complements learning during the school day.

Estelle Morris

EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA SUPERWEEK

What is a Superweek? A Superweek is our name for our unique residential adventure holiday. The holidays are designed to allow children age 8 to 14 to experience a week packed full of challenging activities and imaginative games. Some require team work, some require ingenuity and some just require being plain silly. Children have the chance to learn new skills, make new friends and hopefully try things that they might not normally have the chance to do.

What Can I do on this Superweek? You might be able to take part in a huge Easter Egg Hunt across fields, through woods and over streams. There might even be an appearance from a certain floppy eared animal with a funny tail. We will play 325 games you have never, ever played before, go on expeditions, be set challenges and quests, have parties, toast marshmallows over the bonfire, play games in our sleeping bags by torchlight, have hot chocolate before bed, and 1001 other Easter activities and exciting things you haven’t done before.

The centre

The Tythe Barn used to be apple farm. It is now has lots of comfortable dormitories hidden in different parts of the farm buildings and everything we need for a fantastic week. We will have 25 acres to play in and explore, and lots of different spaces for games and group activities. If this sounds like your sort of thing then hop along to http://www.superweeks.co.uk/ to find out more.

£379 That’s it. Travel, food, activities, materials, everything. Company Number: 3364551 Charity Number: 1062448

Additional Notes for the Editor:

ATE is a not-for-profit Educational Trust committed to delivering both truly memorable experiences and top level childcare to children from various backgrounds. Keeping the children safe, both physically and emotionally is our top priority.

ATE has been running these holidays for over 18 years and was born out of Colony Holidays for Schoolchildren which ran similar styled holidays for another 20 years previously. Our organisation is made up of about 300 volunteers who are all dedicated to providing amazing experiences for children.

Find Us: Find us on the internet at http://superweeks.co.uk Find us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ATE_Superweeks For further information, images for press and/or other resources please contact Liz Macartney on 08454 561 205 or email [email protected]

SATURDAY 12TH – SATURDAY 19TH APRIL 201 THE TYTHE BARN AND GRANARY NR LEDBURY, HEREFORDSHIRE.

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The Vine Magazine MK South Online April/May 2014

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Transcript of The Vine Magazine MK South Online April/May 2014