village life hitchin february 2013

Claire Austin is UK’s Entrepreneur of the Year

PLUS

CruisingLocaL Businesses showcased

• Codicote • Kimpton • Whitwell • Preston • Breachwood Green • Graveley • Little Wymondley • Great Wymondley • St. Ippolyts • Gosmore • Knebworth • Welwyn Village

issue 43 : feBruary 2013

www.villagelifemag.com

Lifestyle | Business | community

LifeVillagefreehiTchin

A history of the Wymondleys

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WeLCoMe to feBruary

4: Local news

6: Wellbeing: Marilyn tuck – Hopping off to Australia

8: Community: A history of the Wymondleys

10: Business: UHY WKH wins Investors in People Gold Award

14: Business: Peony Floral Boutique

18: Business: Austins’ on the move

20: travel Focus: Cruising

22: Lifestyle: north Herts Ramblers’ Dog Walks

28: What’s on in February / take a break

CRUISInG: PAGe 20

tHe WYMonDLeYS: PAGe 8

where can you find Village Life?

Village Life Magazine has a readership of 17,500 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

© 2013 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.comJose & Melanie

Welcome to the February issue of Village Life, Valentine’s day is the main date that should be in your diary this month (Thursday 14th Feb). If you are looking for inspiration for gifts then Peony Floral Boutique would be a great place to visit, read about them on page 14. Also Edible Bouquets have some fantastic gifts and their details are on the same page.

This month we look in to the History of Little Wymondley & Great Wymondley and we also find out about Cruising which is becoming more and more popular. We would like to congratulate local businesswoman Claire Austin for winning UK Entrepreneur of the Year, read the story on page 4.

If you have a local story or run a local group which you would like us to showcase then please get in touch. We are also looking for local photos so if you are a budding photographer with images taken in the Village Life area, contact us for the chance for your photo to feature on our cover!

Don’t forget you can find the answers to the crossword on our website – www.villagelifemag.com and we are also on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter – @villagelifemag!

Bye for now,

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950February 2013 3

Village Life | www.villagelifemag.com | tel: 01438 216950 February 20134

LOCAL NEWS

Local Business Women is Best in Britain

Claire, who is Managing Director of Austin’s Funeral Directors, was selected as the country’s top entrepreneur by the British Chambers of Commerce. She picked up her award at a gala dinner at London’s Guildhall in front of an audience of over 500 people.

A delighted Claire said: “I am amazed and thrilled to have won this award but I really couldn’t have done it without the support and loyalty of the entire Austin’s team. Our whole business is about providing an outstanding service to our clients and everybody in the team plays a vital role in doing that.”

Austin’s made it to the national final, which was hosted by BBC journalist and broadcaster Declan Curry, having won the Business of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year categories at the Chamber’s East of England awards. Eighty five companies from all over the UK attended the national final competing in 14 categories.

The Entrepreneur of the Year award is designed to recognise an individual who has been

“instrumental in the success of a business taking into consideration the overall performance of the business over the last three years”. Claire, who has headed Austin’s since 2001 and is the tenth generation of her family to do so, was praised for significantly growing the 312-year-old company whilst continuing to focus on offering a level of service that “set the company apart from its national competitors”. The judges were particularly impressed by Claire’s use of feedback and a mystery shopper review which resulted in the introduction of a number of innovations for the sector.

President of the British Chambers of Commerce Martyn Pellew said: “Claire Austin is a fitting winner of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award and shows what can be achieved when you innovate and continually improve the way you do business.”

Austin’s has eight branches throughout Hertfordshire and also owns and operates Harwood Park Crematorium in Stevenage.

Local businesswoman Claire Austin has been named the UK’s Entrepreneur of the Year at a prestigious business awards ceremony.

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Yes, it’s an exciting time – after 10 years in this beautiful country I am booked to go back to Australia in mid March and this month I am

celebrating those years! Yes, during this time I have learned so much, and the way I am able to help people has changed so dramatically. It has become easier, more modern, and more completely online, but more on that in the next issue.

In this article I am celebrating the success of these lovely years with you: the Knebworth articles from 2007, and then Village Life from it’s conception in 2009, and every month since!

I covered some weird and wonderful topics and soon found out which ones ticked your boxes. Whenever I wrote about stress and weight loss I got calls, so I started tailoring my articles to helping you relax more and eat and exercise sensibly. there were topics related to stress such as work, relationships, kids, sleep and panic attacks.

You have stretched me as a person in this time bringing me such interesting problems to solve; debilitating conditions such as depression, IBS and cancer; kids behavioral issues; maturing teenagers; anxiety and very personal problems; plus weight gain, smoking and drinking; work and sport issues. We have had some lovely successes.

Readers have even told me they have kept an article for months knowing they would come one day.

Here is one mother’s example. Her teenage daughter was winding her up and what with work and running a house, she was at her wits’ end. ‘Can you help?’ she asked. It was such a relief to her to find an easy way around this. She changed her own stressed behavior and lo and behold the whole house calmed down, even the daughter. I have always said the mother is the hub of the house, calm the

mother and the whole family dynamics change. If this sounds like you please don’t faff around, get help now! In just 1-3 weeks it’s likely you’ll feel and see quite a difference.

For those I have met here in my safe little therapy room thank you for coming and those who I haven’t met I somehow feel connected to you through this magazine. And, this transition of mine is only that - a move within a world joined by wondrous technology that allows us to write, talk and see each other instantly, no matter where we are, without even going out of our house.

In fact, did you know I do Skype consultations? Well, I have helped people in this country and worldwide for years via Skype. It is so easy, with appointments set up at times to suit them. this, of course, will continue as many of my local clients continue working with me on Skype, but my

laptop and I are always open to seeing more. If you want to come in February ring

now and if you want to try out Skype for free do ring or email me.


WELLBEING

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VILLAGE LIfE

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Great Wymondley is set high on the hill and its norman church stands next to the mound of a ‘motte and bailey’. the church is believed to

have originally been a chapel to Hitchin. In 1199 it was the subject of a legal dispute between Reginald de Argentein and the Abbess of elstow. the Abbess maintained that Judith niece of William the Conqueror who founded the abbey of elstow, gave to the nuns the vill of Hitchin with its church and the chapel of Wymondley pertaining to it. She produced the charter and confirmations by William I and Henry I and II, also the testimonials of the archdeacon and the bishop who dedicated the church, and of Henry the king. Reginald on the other hand said that the church of Wymondley had never pertained to that of Hitchin, and that in the time of William I, a certain Alfled made presentation to that church. He claimed that afterwards

it was given to his grandfather Reginald together with the manor and therefore he now claimed the advowson, as two presentments had already been made by his family. In 1208-9 Richard de Argentein (the son of Reginald) acknowledged the right of the Abbess of elstow to the advowson, on condition that she would receive him into all benefits and prayers which were made in the church of elstow. About this time elstow appropriated the church, and a vicarage was ordained by Hugh Wells, Bishop of Lincoln, whose episcopacy lasted from 1209 to 1235. elstow kept the church until the Dissolution, after which the tithes were included in the grant of Hitchin rectory to trinity College, Cambridge, by Henry VIII.

Adjacent to the church is a green in the centre of the village with ‘Delamere House’ (a very attractive brick built house) standing on the site of an earlier house where it is

Little & Great Wymondley are two villages covered by Wymondley Parish Council which are rich in history and have a population of around 1100. Shards of Roman pottery and a Roman cemetery reflect its proximity to a large Roman farm and villa in the valley to the east on the outskirts of Hitchin.

A history of The Wymondleys

COmmUNItY


COmmUNItY

rumoured that Cardinal Wolsey lived for a time. Across the road is a pretty row of thatched cottages named after several of Henry VII’s wives.

originally, there was a Manor House in Great Wymondley near the church and motte and bailey, but all traces of this have disappeared. the Lord of the Manor was held in ‘Serjeantry’ to the Crown and his duty was to present the first cup of wine at the Coronation feasts in Westminster hall. this tradition continued up to the coronation of George IV, after which, the banquet was discontinued. the duties of this manor and that of Little Wymondley merged over the years and remains of the latter still remain as Wymondley Bury.

the Great Wymondley village is a conservation area and unspoilt by development. there is a ‘minor’ sunken road between the two Wymondleys which was probably laid out at the time of the Wymondley enclosure Act of 1811. Beside this road are the remains of a priory after which the current property and farm are named. the priory followed the rule of St Augustine and was patronised by the lords of the manor. Founded in the early 1200’s, there is a copy of a papal bull in the British Library from Pope Innocent III giving protection to the Hospital of Wymondley dated 1207. Following the dissolution, parts of the nave of the church appear to have been incorporated within the current dwelling house and the tithe barn has been restored and is used for private functions.

to the east of Great Wymondley, in the valley stands Little Wymondley. Whilst containing a number of older properties, it is now larger than Great Wymondley with several small developments over the years.

the Wymondley aspect of the village name derives from an old english personal name and leah to give ‘Wilmund’s wood/clearing‘. In the Domesday Survey of 1086 the name appears as Wimundelai and Wimundeslai. the name used to be prefixed by the word Parva which is Latin for small.

Little Wymondley boasts its own church, St Mary the Virgin, which has a clock on the tower presented by the villagers of Little Wymondley in commemoration of the coronation of King edward VII in 1902. the original church on this site was dedicated to St Peter, built in the middle twelfth century and was linked to the Priory in the thirteenth century. After falling into disrepair, it was rebuilt in the late fifteenth century and rededicated to St Mary.

to the south stands moated Wymondley Bury, parts of which date back to the 14th century. the Bury stands on a site that was probably fortified in the Saxon period. on the west of the village stands Wymondley House, built

by a rich and influential lawyer in the early 1700’s. He enclosed eight acres of common land and ignored a court order to remove them, which was not enforced. He was so wealthy that he paid window tax on twenty-five windows. (Daylight robbery springs to mind!). this private residence became a Roman Catholic school for a few years after the Second World War, the chapel in grounds having been used as a schoolroom for London evacuees during the war, and then a commercial premises. It has reverted to residential units.

the Wymondley Parish is set in a rolling landscape and is criss-crossed with footpaths, (some of Roman origin like Gypsy Lane) ideal for walking the dog or a leisurely stroll.


BUSINESS

UHY WKH Partnership Chartered Accountants and Virtual Business Source Limited are delighted to announce that they have again been awarded

the Investors in People Gold Award, an achievement that recognises world class best practice.

As the first firm of accountants in the east of england to achieve the Gold award in 2009 and one of the first to achieve the Investors in People Gold nationally, UHY WKH Partnership and Virtual Business Source Limited have once again been assessed as meeting the Gold Award level.

David Smyth, senior partner, celebrating the firm’s success said “our business development strategy has continued to put staff development, succession planning, staff motivation and job satisfaction at the core of delivering our services. Receiving the Investors in People Gold Award the first time was an excellent achievement, and to be awarded it again recognises the hard work everyone continues to deliver to provide industry-leading taxation, accountancy and payroll services. As a result we have developed strong business relationships throughout Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire. We are proud to have the recognition of our continued

successes, and the plans we have to continue to grow our business in future.”

the key findings of the review assessment showed that UHY WKH Partnership and Virtual Business Source Limited, continue to operate at the very highest levels of people management practice, using Investors in People to continue to help drive the business forward. the award is recognition of their commitment to staff learning and development and management effectiveness.

Investors in People conducted an independent review assessment during an intensive series of interviews carried out with a random selection of employees. the interviews allowed the Investors in People Assessor to gain an accurate picture of both organisations’ policies, benefits and daily working practices.

Some of the distinguishing features noted in the review assessment were the awareness by both senior management and staff of the leadership skills and professional competences required to achieve the high performance and quality of service to clients. Both organisations were noted to have a clear vision and values which were fully understood by all members of staff, with equal opportunities for everyone to receive the development and support to meet their targets and for their career progression.

UHY WKH – Investors in People Award Winners

Adam Fernandes, Business Development Manager from UHY WKH Partnership Chartered Accountants reports on his firm being awarded the Investors in People Gold Award for a second time...

if you would like a free review of your businesses current position, please call me anytime on 01462 687333 or 07850 504044.

There’s no obligation, just a great opportunity for you to get the benefit of an experienced professional looking for ways to improve things.

Come to the professionals with expert knowledge, experience & resources to make a difference.

www.uhy- wkh.comLetchwortht 01462 687333

Roystont 01763 247321

Cambridget 01223 257850

2 Accountants & auditors

2 Bookkeeping & payroll

2 Tax advisors

2 Corporate finance

2 Financial planning

2 Insolvency

Village Life 132x45 23-3-12.indd 1 26/3/12 09:46:05


VILLAGE LIfE

Old Welwyn Construction Specialists in Extensions, Home Refurbishment,

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

Email: [email protected]

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VILLAGE LIfE

RUSSELL DICKSON GARDEN LANDSCAPEDESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

StoneworkPavingPatiosTerracesWallingTurfingPlantingWater Features& Related Projects

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

Call: 07833 591340 01438 821384

Counselling Herts

Lost Your WaY 01462 435145 [email protected] WWW.counseLLingherts.co.uk

Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy

2013 is here and I am sure many of you have made New Year resolutions of one kind or another; “Out with the old and in with the new”? Perhaps you are looking for some inspiration and optimism to help you move forward and make much needed changes in your life. You can unlock your potential and gain inspiration by talking things through with a therapeutic counsellor who can help you look at what can be done, to accept what can not be changed and to move forward embracing new inspirations and potentials for a more meaningful and satisfying life.

My name is Elaine and my aim is to ensure that affordable counselling of a high standard is available to all. If you find yourself struggling with a difficult event in your life or a relationship difficulty then you

can make an appointment today to talk to a qualified therapist in confidence.


BUSINESS

This Valentine’s day (Thursday 14th February), treat your loved one to a romantic bouquet of flowers. Whether it’s classic red roses, a contemporary hand tied bouquet, a vase arrangement or a single rose, Peony Floral Boutique have lots of options to choose from to suit every budget. Visit www.peonyflorist.co.uk to see their full Valentine’s Day price list.

Peony will be delivering all day on the 14th to all the usual areas including Hitchin, Codicote, Welwyn Garden City, Welwyn, Knebworth, Harpenden and all the surrounding villages, as well as Stevenage and its surrounding villages. You can also collect your flowers from either the Codicote or the Stevenage indoor Market shop. They are happy to deliver a mix of flowers & gifts

Alongside flowers you will find Valentine’s Day helium balloons, heart shaped luxury bath bombs, hand creams & bath products, jewellery, hand made cards & gifts.

Peony will be putting together some fantastic packages and to take all the stress out of Valentines Day, you can get everything you need in one placeCall the Stevenage Shop on 01438 314345 Wednesday to Saturday or the Codicote Shop on 01438 821888 Monday to Saturday, alternatively you can email [email protected] all you brave men out there that are popping the question this Valentines Day don’t forget they also do fabulous wedding flowers…

Peony Floral Boutique, 121 High St, Codicote SG4 8UA & Unit 70 Stevenage Indoor Market, St Georges Place, Stevenage SG1 1EP www.peonyflorist.co.uk 01438 314345

Peony Floral Boutique


VILLAGE LIfE

Come and enjoy a Race Night on 9th February

Call to book for Valentine’s Day

Welcome to Neel Dentistry, a state-of-the-art, modern practice in the heart of Welwyn village.

N E E L D E N T I S T R Y

Why come to see us

• Wonderful professional highly trained staff who work

together for your benefit

• Nominated best new practice UK and best team

• General dentistry – we value your dental health and we

want you to keep your teeth for the rest of your life

• Dental implants – a great solution for missing teeth

and replacing dentures

• Teeth whitening – quick and predictable professional

results making your teeth look cleaner and more attractive

• Smile makeovers – are you embarrassed by

your teeth or don’t smile? We can help

• Invisalign clear braces for adults and for

teenagers – straight teeth last longer and look better

• Cosmetic functional Dentures that look natural

and fit well

• Hygienist Treatments & Periodontist

• Sedation services – for nervous patients

Dr Neel Jaiswal BDS MFGDP (UK)

Call us on 01438 712 713

Discover modern dentistry in our comfortable, state of the art practice in Welwyn High Street. Call in and see for yourself – and pick up some further details. We look forward to welcoming you.

43 High Street, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 9EE

01438 712713 www.neeldentistry.co.uk [email protected]

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BUSINESS

Austin’s on the moveAustin’s, Hertfordshire’s leading independent funeral

directors, has purchased new premises in Hitchin.the 312-year-old family run firm has been

successfully trading in the town centre since 1994 and will be relocating just round the corner from their existing premises.

Claire Austin, the tenth generation of her family to run the company said: “our Hitchin branch has been doing very well and we have seen a significant increase in business over the years. We therefore felt it was time to move to larger premises so that we could offer bereaved families even better facilities including a private parking area.”

the new branch which will be located at 76-77 Hermitage Road is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment and will open in the summer. In the meantime the company, which has won numerous business awards for its outstanding customer care, will continue to trade as normal from its premises at 96 Bancroft.

austin’s has eight branches throughout hertfordshire and also owns and operates harwood Park crematorium and Memorial gardens in stevenage.

Serving the local community for ten generations

www.austins.co.uk

Serving the local community for ten generations

24 hour service • Private Chapels of Rest• Memorial Stonemasons • Funeral Plans

• Own Crematorium

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Personal, caring and independent.

STEVENAGE • 01438 316623HITCHIN • 01462 438422

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For further information, visit www.austins.co.uk or call 01462 438422


VILLAGE LIfE

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

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When deciding what to do for your next holiday you may want

to consider taking a cruise. the popularity of cruising has soared over the past decade and the cruise industry has responded by building larger ships and increasing the number of ports of call. You can count on superb dining choices, spacious and comfortable accommodations, non-stop onboard activities, all sorts of fun and adventurous programs at each individual port of call, Broadway style nightly entertainment and much more. With cruising steadily receiving the highest customer satisfaction ratings throughout the travel industry, you can count on an experience that will wow you and leave you wanting more.

Cruise ships are “floating hotels” and like hotels they come in different star ratings, tastes and sizes, ranging

from party ships, traditional cruises to the new modern style of cruising. It is very important to ask which style of cruise you are looking at so this matches your holiday needs. For example the Carnival Cruise Ships are known for their nonstop party atmosphere, Fred olsen are the more traditional cruise ship and P&o can cater for just about everything. Here are a few questions and answers to help you have the cruise know how!

how will i get to the ship? Many cruise ships sail from the UK or alternatively you can opt for a fly cruise where you will fly to the destination and have a transfer to the ship, this is popular for the long haul cruises such as the Caribbean.

how much luggage can i take?on cruises sailing from and returning

to the UK you can take as many bags as you can fit into your cabin. on fly-cruises you’ll be restricted to the airline’s baggage allowance.

i don’t know what to pack! During the day casual wear is ideal with comfortable shoes for exploring ashore. Although cruising isn’t as formal as it once was, passengers still love to dress up in the evening. You normally find a couple of nights where you can really glam up such as the Captain’s cocktail party.

is the main destination normally the port? Usually yes, but in some countries you may have to dock in an alternative location. In these cases, the itinerary will list the port in brackets alongside the destination, e.g. Rome (from Civitavecchia). Shore excursions are offered from your ship to your


trAVEL fOCUS

This month we look at the fastest growing holiday choice...

Cruising

destination, with public transport and taxis available for those wishing to explore independently.

how long do we get to explore? this can be anything from half a day to a couple of days depending on your chosen itinerary. this will all be listed in the cruise company’s brochure.

what happens if i am unwell? every cruise ship contains a well equipped Medical Centre with qualified doctors and nurses for your peace of mind.

i am not sure if i will like a cruise?Why not try one of the taster cruises for 2 nights sailing from the UK, this will give you an idea if cruising is for you and give you a real insight to the vast size of the cruise ships and all the onboard facilities.


trAVEL fOCUS

If you would like to find out more about cruises or help to find your dream holiday or city break,

call Off Broadway Travel on 01438 716200, visit www.offbroadwaytravel.com or

email [email protected].


LIfEStYLE

Three Christmases ago, Jenny Mason was given a membership for the Ramblers as a gift from her children. She was shocked to find out that she could not take her dogs out on North Herts walks as the members didn’t like dogs out with them, and there were no leaders willing to lead any walks with dogs. She offered her services and was factored into the programme.

Jenny told us, “Initially, I led five walks of 4-5 miles in the following programme, starting from a pub and

offering lunch on their return. They had of course to be dog friendly. This proved to be no problem at a time when all business is good business. The walks proved very popular and attracted those with and without dogs but who were happy to have dogs along. We now have around 50 on our email list and 6 of these are prepared to and are capable of leading walks, which now take place every Saturday morning.

We are now a recognised branch of North Herts Ramblers’ and I am on the committee. We enjoy all the benefits of being part of the national charity and our leaders are covered by their insurance, some of us have supported their Paws on Tour Holidays at Hassness House on Buttermere in the Lake District and scrambled up Haystacks and Red Pike with our dogs.

Aside from pub based walks we have introduced, ‘ Bring it and Share it’ lunch walks and banded together for a private walking holidays in the Ayr Valley in Germany. We are also off to Tenerife in March. (We obviously don’t take the dogs on these jaunts). All are welcome to come on any of our walks.”

For further information, visit www.northhertsramblers.webs.com or call Jenny on 01438 871580

“I went from a size 18 to a 10 in 6 months!”

Member Alison, 43.

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St.John’s Community CentreSt. Johns Road, Hitchin, SG4 9JP6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics)7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

WEDNESDAYSt.Nicholas Park PavilionPilgrims Way, Stevenage, SG1 4PT10:00 - 11:30 am (Slim & Aerobics)

Kingshott SchoolStevenage Road, Hitchin, SG4 7JX6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics)7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

THURSDAYSt.Nicholas Park PavilionPilgrims Way, Stevenage, SG1 4PT6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics)7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

SATURDAYSports Hall, North Hertfordshire College, Hitchin Centre, Cambridge Road, Hitchin, SG4 0JD09:30 - 11:00 am (Slim & Aerobics)

www.rosemaryconley.com

Please call or e-mail to BOOK your place!

north Herts ramblers’ Dog Walks


VILLAGE LIfE

Specialists in

Annual Boiler/Central Heating Services

Plumbing and Heating Requirements

Boiler & Heating Installations

Boiler Upgrades

Power Flushing

Pumps, Radiators & Valves

Hot & Cold Water Tanks

All Plumbing & Heating work undertaken

For a free no obligation quote contact: 01438 712712

www.staggproperty.co.uk [email protected]

STAGG PLUMBING & HEATING

STAGG PROPERTY SERVICES LTD

KNEBWORTH LUXURY CARE HOMEThe Easter period will soon be upon us. Perhaps you would like some company

over this time? Rather than spending it on your own why not check in for a pampering break at Knebworth Care Home

We are a luxury care home set back from London Road in the peaceful Hertfordshire village of Woolmer Green.

You can treat yourself to a special time in luxurious surroundings which includes our Jubilee Café, licensed bar and landscaped grounds and enjoy

wonderful food and companionship.

For details of packages for long stay, short stay, nursing or residential care or to come and see what we have to offer, please contact Jackie Clarke on 01438 814 580.

We look forward to the opportunity to show you round.

Easter Break at


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

Please mention The Hitchin Village Directory when responding to adverts 28


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

Specialising in:Cuts & Blow Dry

Colour & Colour Correction

Hi Lights, Low Lights

Fully Qualified & Insured

Call Francesca for an appointment or a free consultation on

07579 007 049

Francesca’sMobile Hairdressing

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


VILLAGE LIfE

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

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 11:11Are you a local

Removals Company looking for more business?

Contact Melanie on

01438 216 950

If you would like to come on board and advertise your company to

17,500 readers each month, we will offer low advertising rates.

Village Life is looking for a reliable Removals Company to advertise in the magazine.


VILLAGE LIfE

LeaFLet DeLiVeRyWould you like your

leaflet to be delivered along with Village Life? Just £35 per 1,000

Call Melanie on 01438 216 950

Andrew SinclairElEctriciAn

All domestic electrical work undertaken from a

socket to a rewire 20 years experience

City & Guilds qualified

Kitchens l BathroomsFusebox changes

Call for a free quotationtel: 01438 832 673

Mob: 07796 648 930

127 High Street, Kimpton, Herts, SG4 8Qn

Carpets l Vinyls Laminates l Wood

Adaptations & repairs

THe FloorinG STore THAT CoMeS To Your Door

For A Free quoTATioncall ewen McPherson on

07966 463761or

01707 338505email: [email protected]

5 Pondcroft

Welwyn Garden City

Hertfordshire

AL7 3PX

the pleasure is underfoot

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


WHAt’S ON

What’s on in FEBRUARY...

Take a Break…

CROSSWORDSaturday 2nd - Sunday 24th February, 12-4pm daily Snowdrops at Bennington Lordship Guided Walks – Mondays & Wednesdays at 2pm, £1 Maximum of 30 people – tickets are sold on the day in the entrance kiosk on a first come first served basis, sorry but we cannot take bookings for places by email or telephone. Free Parking. Refreshments. RHS members: Free entry 2nd - 8th Feb

Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th February, 12pm–4pm NGS Open Garden at Walkern Hall, Stevenage A winter woodland of snowdrops and aconites in a medieval hunting park open in aid of the NGS, raising money for nursing and caring charities. Adult £3.50, Children free, www.ngs.org.uk

Saturday 16 Feb 2013, 7pm - 12am Heart of Herts Casino Night for Herts Air Ambulance, Fairway Tavern, Old Herns Lane, W.G.C AL7 2ED Fun filled evening of dinner, dancing and casino games. Drinks reception, two course dinner and disco. Tickets £25 per person, 0845 2417 690.

Saturday 16th February to Sunday 24th February February Frolics at Willows Farm Village, London Colney, St. Albans Newborn lambs daily in lambing marquee with bottle-feeding demonstrations, Bo Peeps fun hunt for her lost sheep with prize, farmyard animals, fun fair rides, synthetic ice rink, JCB Young Drivers Zone, under cover adventure play in Captain Chicken’s Egg Dodge and Woolly Jumpers indoor play barn, Tristan the Runaway Tractor and Mad Science farming shows in Woolly’s Showtime Theatre.

Sunday 17th February, 10.00am – 1.00pm Wheathampstead Farmers Market Every month on the third Sunday, enjoy a sumptuous range of some the best local food you can buy; fresh crunchy vegetables, lovingly preserved jams and pickles, hot chillis, locally reared beef, pork and lamb, fresh eggs, a great wet fish stall, plants and much more.

Tuesday 19th February Children’s Craft Activity at Mill Green Museum & Mill, Welwyn AL9 5PD£3 per child, one accompanying adult free admission. Children must have a parent or guardian on the premises at all times during their visit, unless otherwise stated. Tea and coffee facilities for parents and grandparents to enjoy.

North Herts Dog Walks www.northhertsramblers.webs.com Saturday, 9th Feb: Station Pub, Knebworth, SG3 6AT. Leader: Kathie, 01438 940594Tuesday, 12th Feb: The Bell, Codicote, SG4 8XD. Leader: Kathie, 01438 940594

Saturday, 23rd Feb: The Raven, Hexton, SG5 3JB. Leader: Jenny, 01438 871580

Saturday, 2nd Mar: North Star, Mardley Hill, AL6 0TA. Leader: Viv, 01438 813210

GEt YOUr EVENt LIStED fOr frEE HErE, EmAIL: [email protected] or call us on 01438 216 950

ACrOSS

1. Container (6)

4. Healing cream (8)

9. Rouse. (6)

10. Turning into. (8)

12. Hold onto. (4)

13. Of the sun. (5)

14. Spy. (4)

17. Places of learning. (12)

20. Decreasing in value. (12)

23. Single part. (4)

24. Keen. (5)

25. Cease. (4)

28. Sleeplessness. (8)

29. Armpit. (6)

30. Lowest class for travellers. (8)

31. Snack. (6)

DOWN

1. Faint. (8)

2. Shapes. (8)

3. Vegetable. (4)

5. Rigidity. (12)

6. Stepped. (4)

7. Newspaper chief. (6)

8. Labelled. (6)

11. Building. (12)

15. Flat. (5)

16. Commenced. (5)

18. Winter sporting event. (8)

19. Aubergine. (8)

21. Hanging ornament. (6)

22. Thin paper. (6)

26. Eastern potentate. (4)

27. Spindle. (4)


VILLAGE LIfE

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

Are you a local Window Cleaner looking

for more business?

Contact Melanie on

01438 216 950

If you would like to come on board and advertise your company to

17,500 readers each month, we will offer low advertising rates.

Village Life is looking for a reliable Window Cleaner to advertise in the magazine.

Make it happen for you...If you dream of being fitter, healthier and happier, make this your year and be what

you have always wanted to be!I am a former Russian International Athlete.

My biggest success was at the 1994 World Athletics Championships, where I was a member of the

gold-winning team in the 4x400m relay. “As a professional athlete I always looked for the best possible performance and I believe

my clients deserve nothing less!” I can help you

Lose weight l Improve body shape & fitness l Build core strength & stability l Increase wellbeing

Reduce stress & fatigue l Recover from injury or illness In addition, I can provide

Cardio vascular training l Sport specific trainingSpecialising in Running – 10k/Half/Full Marathon

Sports massage l Cardiac Rehabilitation

Personal Training with Svetlana07771 547 691

www. personaltrainingstevenage.com

P&G Property Maintenance

Your local fencing specialists· Repairs & Maintenance· All Aspects of Carpentry· Painting & Decorating

All work carried out to the highest standards City & Guilds qualified Fast & Reliable Service

Recommendations Available

Please call for a free no obligation quotation

07505 131 15407581 042 94807845 222 321

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


SHOWCASE

COMPUTERPROBLEMS

Want to kick your computer?

CALL Mike for a FREE consultation

Telephone: 07889 [email protected]

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

123 HIGH ST, CODICOTE, SG4 8UB01438 821418

• FREE prescription collection from any surgery

• FREE home delivery of medication & shopping

• Passport photos & digital processing

• NHS & Private Flu jabs available here

To The RoofTV Aerials and Satellite dishes

installed by 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

Advertise here

tO 17500 LOCAL CUstOMers

JUst £99 for 4 monthsCALL 01438 216 950

Includes design of advert

BRiDGe COttaGe PHaRMaCy

41 High Street, Welwyn, AL6 9EF

Open Mon to Sat 7am – 10pm, Sun 10am – 8pm

10% discount when you purchase non-prescription items

ask about our free medicine delivery service

01438 840240

GOt YOUYou have read this ad too!

how can you not invest £25pm here to reach out to YOUr

new customers?CALL 01438 216 950

terms and conditions apply.

Need extra Cash?Part time – Full time – Your time

Build your own business from the comfort of your own home.

If you are interested in making a substantial income through

your own efforts please contact us.

07792 72397107896 637639

email: [email protected]

JOrdAN OiL BUrNer serviCes

estABLished 1968An independent Oil Boiler

Maintenance Company Offering: - reGULAr ANNUAL serviCiNG

COMMissiONiNG • BreAKdOWN serviCe

OFteC registered & Certificated by

Major Manufacturers.

01438 355583 / 07831 364607www.jordanoil.co.uk

Office Furniture & Interiors

Space PlanningPartitioning

Suspended CeilingsRelocation / Move Management

01920 465 037www.cupaz.com

Postal ServiceFine Glass Finishers Ltd

01799 530655 [email protected]

Replacement Woodburner Glass

VACANCIESFull/Part Time fully qualified Stylist required, working on a

self-employed basis.

Full/Part Time fully qualified Nail Technician required, working

on a self-employed basis.

www.purehitchin.co.ukwww.facebook.com/purehitchin

[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.

village life hitchin february 2013

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