Focus Towcester

February - March 2011Issue 14

10% OFFall orders placedbefore 31st March

For your perfect Kitchen, Bathroom and Bedroom

Tel: 01327 830070www.parkerkitchens.co.uk West Farm, Eastcote, Towcester

Bringing thecommunities andbusinesses ofTowcester andsurrounding villagescloser together...

Focus Towcester Feb-Mar 2011.indd 3 17/01/2011 14:37:11


Welcome

Focus Towcester – February - March 2011 www.focusmagazinegroup.co.uk 3

We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Focus Towcester, whilst every care is taken to assure accuracy,the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert. All artwork is acceptedon strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that the descriptionsof goods and services are fair and accurate. Any reproduction of any material is forbidden without the written consent of the publishers.The publishers cannot accept responsibility for views expressed by contributors, or for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers.

Map produced byGlobal Mapping Ltd ©

Focus Towcester &Surrounding Villages isPublished bi-monthly by

Focus Towcester &Surrounding Villages

magazine is distributedFREE to over 10,000 homes

in the NN12 area

Copy Deadline for our nextissue is: 7th March 2011

Tel: 01327 353753Mobile: 07754 434960 Email: [email protected] Web: www.focusmagazinegroup.co.uk

Now that our Christmasand New YearFestivities are well andtruly out of the way,

and most of us have settled backinto some sort of normality, we canall look ahead to the forthcomingyear.

Hopefully with the darker daysdisappearing as the clocks goforward at the end of March (seepage 54) we can start to planall those projects we promisedourselves we would eventually getround to in 2011. Lets face it, weall feel better when the sun startsshining and we feel just that littlebit more motivated to get thingsdone!

Like some of you, here at Focus,we have some interesting timesahead as we plan the next EasterEgg Chase at The TowcesterCentre for Leisure – As some of youmay remember, last year’s event

was an overwhelming success,however this year we will be betterorganised with a host of otherthings to do to promise a fun dayfor all the family (see page 34).In addition we are busy planningthe launch of our next magazine soI think we have enough to keep usbusy this year!

We have as always, thecompetition on page 50, but thisyear you will see that we havereplaced our traditional Sudokucompetition with a Word Grid forthose like me who prefer letters tonumbers!

Finally I draw your attention topage 6. Sharon McMurrayfrom Towcester Tea Rooms was

prepped and ready for herKidney Donor operation on 13thJanuary, unfortunately it wascancelled due to unfortunatecircumstances. Although it wasa total disappointment for bothdonor and recipient, I am happy toreport that the operation has nowbeen re-scheduled and will takeplace mid February.

Good luck Sharon. We wish youall the best and our thoughts arewith you all.


You could be advertising yourbusiness in this magazine from just£20 per month and be seen by allhomes in NN12 within Towcesterand surrounding villages.

Tel: 01327 353753Mobile: 07754 434960Email: [email protected]: www.focusmagazinegroup.co.uk

This magazine is printed withvegetable-based inks, andcan be safely re-cycled

Contents & Handy Numbers

4 Bringing the communities & businesses of Towcester & Surrounding Villages closer together...

ContentsFebruary -March2011 - IssueNumber14

03 Welcome Note04 Contents & Handy Numbers05 Entertainment & Leisure09 Education12 Pets14 Services20 Food & Drink26 Health, Fitness & Beauty35 Homes47 Gardens57 Motoring

Don’t miss our CompetitionWin a £30.00 Voucher to

spend on a meal for two atThe Bull Restaurant on Page 50

Win

CAN Drugs, Alcohol & Homelessness: 01604 622121

Contraception Emergency: 01908 669215

Fire & Rescue Service: 01604 797000

Greens Norton Medical Centre Appts: 01327 358287Dispensary: 01327 359670

Greens Norton Village Hall: 01327 350219

Greyfriars Bus Station: 01604 751431

Lloyds Chemist Brook Health Centre: 01327 352417

Lloyds Chemist 108 Watling St: 01327 350433

Milton Keynes General Hospital: 01908 660033

Neighbourhood Watch: 03000 111 222

NHS Direct: 0845 46 47

Northampton General Hospital: 01604 634700

Paulerspury Doctors Surgery: 01327 811630

Police: 03000 111 222

Post Office, Greens Norton: 01327 350265

Post Office, Towcester: 01327 350469

Samaritans: 08457 909090

Silverstone Surgery Appts: 01327 857240Dispensary: 01327 857980

Social Services: 01604 236236

South Northants Council: 01327 322322

Stony Stratford Health Centre: 01908 260382

The Brook Health Centre: 01327 323900 (Supple Practice)

TADD (Towcester Area Door to Door) 01327 810300

Towcester Library: 01327 350794

Towcester Registrar : 01327 350774

Towcester Community Centre: 01327 350995

Towcester Medical Centre: 01327 359953 (Dr Ward & Ptnrs)

Towcestrians Rugby Club: 01327 350141

Towcester Town Council: 01327 350995

HandyNumbers

MEMBER


Entertainment & Leisure

5Focus Towcester – February - March 2011 www.focusmagazinegroup.co.uk

KJFORTHE LOVEOF THE GREAT

INDOORS

COME AND EXPERIENCE THE PERSONAL TOUCH

>Wade Sofas > Willis & Gambier Dining and Bedroom Furniture> Urbinati Glass Furniture > Italcomma Seating

Extensive Range of Indoor and Outdoor Lighting > Mirrors > GiftwareLadies Accessories > And much, much more!

Káren Jane InteriorsBell Plantation Garden Centre | Watling Street | Towcester | Northants | NN12 6GX

01327 354707 www.bellplantation.co.uk/karen-jane-interiors


Modern VintageJewellery by

Opening Times:Tuesday - Friday 10.00 - 5.00Saturday 9.30 - 5.30 Sunday 10.00 - 4.00Units 1&2 Wakefield Country Courtyard, Potterspury Just off the A5

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A Fantastic Range of Ladies’ &

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“Swarovski” Crystal Jewellery,

Handbags & Purses, Leather

Gloves & Belts, Scarves &

Pashminas, Goose Island

Clothing, Velvet devor

Jackets, Fur Wraps , Men's

Shirts, & Beautiful Knitwear.

Homewares, Gifts, Toys,

Gift-wrapping & Cards also

available.

Lovely

things

forLovely

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The one stop shop for perfect Valentine’sand Mothers Day gifts and cards

01327 810 36307711 342 607



Sharon McMurray decided to look into thepossibility of being tested herself...

Tracey Aspin has had Lupus (an illnessof the immune system where the body’sdefence mechanism begins to attack itselfthrough an excess of antibodies in theblood stream) since she was a young girl.

During her 3 pregnancies she had kidney failure... yetafter each of them, her kidneys started to work againand with medication she has been in ‘remission’ foryears. However since January 2010 she has been ondialysis 3 times a week and after a hernia operation,and fluid on both lungs it became evident that sheneeded a kidney transplant.

A story of friendship and

Unsuccessfully matching with her 3 sons, her friend -Sharon McMurray of Towcester Tea Rooms decidedto look into the possibility of being tested herself.After looking up the details of the operation on thewebsite, she made a phone call, an appointment was

Tel 01327 858510 / 01327 858885www.bainesracing.co.uk

Unit 14 Silverstone Circuit Northants NN12 8TL

Silverstone Cycle Shop

2010 stock at Huge ReductionsIncluding Cycle Clothing Clearance

NewNew“Endura Clothing”

RangeNow in stock




made and she made her way down to John RadcliffeHospital in Oxford for tests.After 6 months and THE most intensive medical theywere told the good news. She was a match andcould donate one of her kidneys to her friend Tracey.If you ask Sharon why she is going through thisincredibly brave undertaking, she simply replies‘because I can!!’The operation is relatively simple. The kidney is‘disconnected’ from the body using Keyhole Surgery,making just a 4-inch insertion to remove it. Not asingle muscle is cut... making the recovery that muchquicker and less painful than a typical operation.There are no ill effects and Donors are able to carryon leading perfectly normal and healthy lives... in factKidney Donors have a longer life expectancy thanothers due to the fact that they have had all the tests toprove that they are 100%!!So Sharon will have several weeks’ recovery and restin bed before carrying on her usual, busy, hectic and

incredible inspiration

healthy life at the Tea Rooms and her Dance Classes.If you would like to join Tracey and Sharon’s DanceSchool, she teaches at Town Hall every Tuesday night,Adults classes 7.30pm-8.30pm & 8.30pm-9.30pm.

Sharon you are an inspiration to us all. Well done.

Friends, Sharon (left) and Tracey

01327 856917

07703 [email protected]

Whittlebury,Nr Towcester

Hat Hire for all occasionsBy Angela Randall





She offers private lessons on a weekly basisin Numeracy and Literacy for local pupils

that require a bit of extra support

Alocal primary school teacher iscurrently available for tuition in Mathscurrently available for tuition in Mathsand English. Melissa Wood, who livesin Litchborough near Towcester, has 8years experience teaching children.

Having just recently relocated to Northamptonshirefrom Wiltshire, she has said goodbye to all of herold pupils and is excited about the prospect ofworking with new pupils in this area. Melissa currentlyworks in local primary schools as a tutor as part of theOne to One Tuition scheme that the government haveimplemented.

Tuition for local children

As well as this, she offers private lessons on a weeklybasis in Numeracy and Literacy for local pupils thatrequire a bit of extra support that cannot be obtainedwith large class sizes. “Private tuition is ideal for

children of any ability as thetuition is tailored to theirindividual needs,” Melissasays. “It improves theirconfidence and gives them

a sense of pride as they can seethemselves improving.”

Tuition can be short or long term, depending on theindividual requirements. Melissa is fully equipped withresources and provides interesting and fun lessons.She is also experienced in helping children preparefor the key stage 1 and 2 SATs and has excellenttestimonials available to show her proven results.Melissa, who has two children of her own, teachesMaths and English for children from the ages of 4 –11. She is currently taking bookings for new pupils.

For more information on availability and prices,please email Melissa Wood at:[email protected] or telephone01327 831523 for an information pack.

Education


• A happy & safe environment for 0-5 yrs• Experienced & qualified staff• Gold heartbeat award for our nutritioushomecooked meals & snacks

• Funded 2½ hr sessions available for pre-school• Full, part-time and school sessions available• Enclosed rear garden• Activities include music, dance & yoga

• A happy & safe environment for 0-5 yrs• Experienced & qualified staff• Gold heartbeat award for our nutritioushomecooked meals & snacks

• Funded 2½ hr sessions available for pre-school• Full, part-time and school sessions available• Enclosed rear garden• Activities include music, dance & yoga

MATHS AND ENGLISHTUITION

Telephone: 01327 831523or 07896 821181

Email: [email protected] CONTACT ME FOR AN

INFORMATION PACKMELISSA WOOD

BA (Hons) Teacher Education

FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS


Education



Education


Queen’s Oak is a friendly women’sMorris side from Potterspury, formedsome 25 years ago by Sue Atkinson.The name originates from theancient tree growing in the fieldsto the north of Potterspury,

associated in local legend with Elizabeth Woodville,Queen of the Yorkist King Edward IV.

Wield your stick with the Queen’s Oak Morris

open evening on Tuesday the 8th of February 2011at Yardley Gobion Village Hall. The time is 8.00pmprompt and continues for a couple of hours till10.00pm until they retire to the White Hart at GraftonRegis for refreshments!

All men and women are welcome to have a go at thetraditional tunes which accompany them!

For more information contact Ann Williams on01327 831143 or alternatively you can find diarydates, pictures and a whole lot more on their websitehttp://www.queensoak.org.uk/

The current side has twentyplus members from the ages of15 to 65 performing a mixtureof traditional dances fromHerefordshire, Worcestershireand Shropshire- the Welshborder counties- along with modern dances written inthe same spirit.All ladies, young or old, short or tall, large or smallare welcome to join and try their hand at BorderMorris, the traditional dance form from the bordersof Wales. Wield your stick with Queen’s Oak foran evening of dance never to be forgotten at their


All dogs are washed in a modernhydrobath and then dried using a highpowered turbo dryer. Groomed and

clipped specifically to your requirementor simply washed and dried!

Muttz CuttzMobile dog grooming

For a competitive price Call Grahamon 07885 467288Based in Yardley Gobion

Visit our website www.muttzcuttz.com

We wash, reproof &repair your Horses rugs & dog

beds to a high standardwith the availability of

free collection& delivery

For all enquiries contact RachelTel: 01604 858818Fax: 01604 858511

Email: [email protected] 26, JBJ Business Park,

Blisworth, Northants, NN7 3DW

Pets


Most dogs love chocolate, but as well asbeing very fattening, it also containsa naturally occurring substance calledtheobromine which is poisonous to

dogs (but not to humans you’ll be relieved to know!).Although dogs are the most common victims of thistype of poisoning, cats, rats and mice are equallysusceptible.

Theobromine is found in the cocoa solids from whichchocolate is made, as well as in cocoa beans, cocoa

Beware of poisoning your

Save the choccy treatsfor yourselves!

You could be advertising yourbusiness here from just

£20 per month and be seen by over10,000 homes and businesses inTowcester and surrounding villages.

Interested?Contact us now to find out more...

Tel: 01327 353753Mobile: 07754 434 960

Email: [email protected]


Call The Wash Pod TODAY!07985 729 553

Our uniqueGuarantee to you.

Your dog, clean, flea freeand smelling great -Or You Don’t Pay!

Maxine (formerly of The Pooch Mobile) will bathyour dog in warm, fresh water using

environmentally friendly solutions, then brush,clip their nails, clean their eyes and ears andlastly blow dry, and deodorise your faithful

friend.

It’s Just 4

Dogs

DO YOU WANT YOUR DOGTO LOOK AND FEEL FANTASTIC?

Fully Insured & Police checked

We look after allkinds of animals

Cat Sitting & Feeding Dog Sitting &Walking Small Animal Sitting & Boarding

House Sitting Home Security ServiceNo job too big or small,No need to pack the pets

For options, bookings and prices:01327 351149 Mobile: 07960 616419

[email protected]

www.petwatchmk.co.uk

We can alsomanage your homesecurity, put out the rubbishand water the plants, allpart of the service

Pets


powder and more recently some garden mulches.Different forms of chocolate contain different amounts -with dark chocolate carrying the highest risk of toxicity.

Symptoms generally occur within a few hours ofeating the chocolate and include abdominal pain,vomiting, excessive drinking, restlessness and even fits.In more severe cases it can even be fatal.

There is no specific antidote for theobromine toxicity.Treatment normally includes inducing vomiting, givingactivated charcoal and placing the dog on a drip.However with prompt intervention the outlook for thesedogs is generally good and fatal cases are thankfullyrare.

So with Easter fast approaching it is important to makesure that your chocolate is very well hidden from theanimals, but at least that will mean more for you!If you must feed your animals chocolate then speciallyformulated pet chocolate is the only safe option.

Towcester Veterinary Centre Call 01327 350239 orvisit the website www.towcester-vets.co.uk

pooch with chocolate


The Golden Touch

Services


Many people are aware that the price ofGold has surged recently. However, itwould surprise most people for themto learn that Gold has been the best

performing asset class over the last 1, 2, 3, 5 and 10year period.After the strong rises we have seen in the Gold pricerecently, a set back is quite possible, however there arereasons other than the risk of the falling US$ and futureinflation why Gold prices are expected to rise further.Gold traditionally does well when inflation is aboveshort term interest rates and this is the situation investorsfind themselves in at present.Central banks globally are also turning into net buyersfor the first time since the 1980’s. This has been ledby India and China who are looking to diversify theirnational reserves.This is coupled with the fact that Gold productionhas been declining for the last 10 years and even on

Withall theabove, the last thingyouneed isyetanotherfirmof numbercrunchers….AtChanceryHartwell LLPandChancery IFALLPwebelieve thatourbusiness is tosolveproblems, exploitopportunitiesand turnadviceintoaction, not justcrunchnumbers.Wearecommitted todeveloping aclose relationshipwithourclients,whichenablesus tounderstandandworkwith them indealingwiththemanychallengesandopportunities they face today.Contactustodayfora free initial consultation.

•Accountancy•Auditing•Taxation•TaxPlanning

•Bookkeeping•VAT

•Payroll• Independent

FinancialAdvice

183 Watling Street West • Towcester • Northants • NN12 6BX • 01327 350888 • [email protected] IFA LLP is entered on the FSA register under reference 454766


Services


current valuations Gold remains cheap when adjustedfor inflation since 1980.If Governments are forced to print even more moneythrough the course of 2011, investors will find securityin Gold and prices will continue to climb.As part of a balanced portfolio Gold can be anexcellent diversifier and protects your money fromfalling in real value, as seen in the building society atpresent.If you would like to discuss this or other investmentopportunities, please contact us for an informedopinion. For more information contactChancery Hartwell LLP Tel 01327 350888

“As part of a balancedportfolio Gold can bean excellent diversifier”

e: [email protected]

SMALL BUSINESSSUPPORT

Phone Pauline On07871 105723 or 01280 860339

Struggling to find time for the office,overloaded with paperwork? I can doyour office administration including

invoices and accounts etc.


Services


Northamptonshire Centres

Enabling choice and control for peoplewith a range of disabilities, as being themain remit of the two new Centres forIndependent Living which have opened inNorthamptonshire.

Northamptonshire County Council has enteredinto a contract with The Disability Resource Centre,Dunstable to manage the new centres which arebased in Corby and Northampton to enableaccessibility for the community of Northamptonshire.

Northamptonshire Centre for Independent Living

The centres will offer an extensive range of informationand advice services, together with local supportaround direct payments and personal budgets, whichenable Disabled People to employ their own personalassistants, in order to have the type of support or carethey need, how and when they want it. Also, for the

The MeadowsC a r e H o m e

Moorend Road Yardley GobionNorthants NN12 7UF

If we can help, please callJudith Milburn on 01908 [email protected]

We offer excellent standards of 24 hours a dayNursing, Residential, Day Care & Respite

in a professional and respectable wayprovided by experienced trained staff.Single Rooms with en-suite facilities &Double Rooms for married couples

Specialists in Residential Letting& Management Services

[email protected]

Office: 01327 351262Mobile: 07704 140317

The Barn, Moat Lane,Towcester, NN12 6AD

Furnished and UnfurnishedProperty

ohn WhiteFuneral DirectorsJ

Independent Family Owned

Private Chapels of Rest24 Hour Service

Pre Payment Plans Available

188 Watling Street EastTowcester, Northants

NN12 6DBTelephone: 01327 359266

www.johnwhitefunerals.co.uk


Services


first time, people inNorthamptonshirewill be able to tryout equipment to aidindependent living ineach centre.

Both Centresfor IndependentLiving are run byand controlled byDisabled Peoplein line with thegovernment’s aimto improve the lifechances of DisabledPeople.

For more information about the centres please callPatrick Road, Corby on 01536 266192 or GladstoneRoad, Northampton, on 01604 588501 or visit thewebsite: www.northamptonshire.gov.uk

for Independent Living

VOLUNTARY CAR SCHEMEPROVIDING A SERVICE TO DRIVE YOU TO

YOUR HEALTH RELATEDAPPOINTMENT AND RETURN YOU TO

YOUR HOMEIF YOU ARE PREPARED TO GIVE AFEW HOURS PER WEEK TO HELP

YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY AND BE AVOLUNTEER DRIVER, WE WOULD BEDELIGHTED TO HEAR FROM YOU.

Drivers receive 40p per mile towards therunning costs of your vehicle.

PLEASE CONTACTTRACY BENHAM 01327 810300E-MAIL [email protected]

F R E E P H O N E 0 8 0 0 1 0 7 5 1 2 2BELL PLANTATION GARDEN CENTRE TOWCESTER NN12 6GX

OPEN 7 DAYS.Mon.- Sat. 9.00am- 5.00pmSunday 10.00am - 4.00pm

.For all your Special Needs.FREE Local Home Demos & DeliveriesLocal Home Demos & Deliveries.Safe off road testing area.Disabled Toilet Facilities.Level access & FREE parking.Cafe & Garden Centre

ECO 4 SCOOTER£675

Riser ReclinerElectric Chair

From£550

AdjustableBed From£595

All prices excludeVAT - Personsregisteredwith disabilitiesmaybe VAT exempt.

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Services


VILLA QUASADA - SPAINFOR RENT

Detached Villa 3 x Double Rooms

Private Large Pool & Spacious Grounds &Surroundings with a views over the GolfCourse

BBQ Area, Sun Terrace & Solarium

Fully Air Conditioned

Satellite TVFor More details contact

Stuart Simpsonm: 07739 208585

e: [email protected]

10 Minutes from Guardamar1KM from “La Marquesa” Golf Course


Services


Look Familiar, Is this You?Let us take the pressure off

within a 5 mileradius ofGreens Norton

For more information contact Geraldine

at: IRONING BORED07536 069790

FREECollection & DeliveryDeliveryery

Regular or justa one off!Men's shirts aspecialityQuick Turnaround

CHATTELSPROPERTY

CLEARANCESERVICES

The Shop is open everyFriday and Saturday

(or other times by arrangement...just phone us!)

Selling all types ofProperty Clearances

7 Park Street Towcester NN12 6DQTel: 01327 350404

OpenFriday’s &Saturdays

Free House ClearanceService Available

Anything from a book to a bed,or a table to a toaster!

Browsers Always WelcomeWhy not pop in and have a rummage!

Demon BeatMobile Disco

Tel 01327 354620or email [email protected]

for more details or a quote

Sensible rates guaranteed withdiscounts for fund raising events

CRB check certification &Public Liability Insurance

Young enthusiastic DJ withquality equipment and stateof the art lighting effects

Music for all occasions:School Discos Birthday PartiesEngagement Parties Weddings

Charity Gigs


Food & Drink


The Old Talbot, Potterspury, NN12 7DQTel 01908 542124

www.old-talbot-potterspury.co.uk

The new winter light bites, sharingplatters and a le carte menu are nowavailable with some fantastic hearty

dishes for those cold nights.

We also have a great newwine list to choose from!

Try our set lunch menu1 course £8.95

2 courses £11.95 or3 courses for £13.95

Served Mon-Fri 12pm-3pm& Saturday 12-5.30

Come and joinus for a

Lazy Sunday Lunchserved 12noon till

8pm

Food ServedMonday – Friday 12–3pm 6-9pm,

Saturday All Day 12-9pm,Sunday 12-8pm

TOWCESTRIANSSPORTS CLUBCLUB

HOUSE

AVAILABLE

FORHIRE

Birthday PartiesAnniversariesWedding PartiesRetirementsChristeningsConferences

Fully Licensed BarLarge Car parkFully Fitted KitchenSpace For Marquee

Greens Norton Road, Towcester, NorthantsContact: Chris Spackman 07745 162002


Food & Drink


WeddingsChristeningsAnniversariesBirthdaysBusiness LunchesFuneralsNaming DaysEngagementParties

Outside CateringBy Towcester Tea Rooms

169 Watling Street Towcester01327 358200

07792 189022 (call or text)[email protected]

Freshly Prepared Buffets To Suit AllBudgets, Delivered To Your Door

Spaces now available:Children’s Saturday

Morning Cooking ClubSplat Cooking Silverstone

01327 858 978 or 0787 523 [email protected]

All equipment and ingredients supplied

Splat Cooking also does cookingparties, workshops, master classes,cooking clubs, hen and stag do’s,

private lessons and more...

gÉãvxáàxÜ_t fàÜtwt exáàtâÜtÇà

Telephone now to reserve your table: 01327 354350www.la-strada.co.uk 11 White Horse Yard, Towcester NN12 6BU

Two Course LunchMonday - SaturdayWith a choice of4 starters &

4 main coursesFREE

Glass of Wine£10.00

Valentine Day DinnerMonday 14th February3 Courses

With a choice of4 starters &

4 main courses&

FREE Glass of Proseccowith dessert£35.00


Food & Drink


Pop in or call 01327 353223 to book37 Brackley Road, Towcester, Northants NN12 6DH

Valentines Night Monday 14th of FebNeil Diamond Party Soul and Rock & Roll tribute

by Jonny RickardThree Course Dinnera Glass of Champagne

& a Rosefor the ladies£22.95pp

• Coffee, Tea, Cappuccino• Snacks • Real Ales• Lagers &Wines • Function Room• Full Restaurant & GrillTwo Courses Lunch £7.95ppMonday - Saturday 12pm - 5pmStarter and main course, or main course and dessert

The Bull at Towcester

NOWFULLYOPEN

11am - 11pm everyday


Good Home CookedFood and Real Alessupporting local

independent breweriesFOSTERS BOOTH

Quiz Night2nd Wednesdayevery month

BIRTHDAYSCHRISTENINGSAND OTHEREVENTS

CATERED FORFlexible Diningto suit anyoccasion

FRIDAY 29th APRILGlamtastic Rock - NOT TO BE MISSED

SATURDAY19th FebruaryTaylormadeAcoustic Duo

SATURDAY 19th MarchDISCO

EASTER SATURDAYAFTERNOON

Children's Easter Egg Hunt

Home Cooked Food servedLunch Tuesday - Sunday

12.00pm - 2.30pmDinner Tuesday – Sunday

6.30pm - 9.00pmSunday Luncha favourite at

£6.95

01327 830259 or www.theredlionfostersbooth.com

Anyone & Everyonewelcome -

Families, DogWalkers, Ramblers

etc….

Food & Drink


Alberto wishes to thank all of thoseregulars and new customers that havevisited The Bull since its opening inlate November and has been greatlyreassured of his decision to transformreassured of his decision to transformA

the venue. Alberto has met and greeted many pastacquaintances over the last few weeks with manymessages of encouragement and good wishes.

A big ‘Thank You’ from AlbertoAlberto also stresses that he wants to continue topromote and develop The Bull into a local venuewhere local business people are able to enjoy a quietbusiness meeting, dinner, snacks and refreshments,coffee, latte, tea etc.

The Bull also has a separate room at the back ofthe building, this will shortly be available for PrivateDinners, Functions etc.

In addition coming soon, will be some liveentertainment in the form of Tribute Bands and ThemedNights, the first to be on 14th February, for ValentinesDay The large car park certainly alleviates any parkingissues hosting ample off road parking at the rear.

For more information regarding dinner reservations,business meetings or general enquiries contactAlberto or a member of the team at The Bull on01327 353223 or visit www.thebullattowcester.co.ukWe look forward to welcoming you to The Bull atTowcester in the very near future.

Alberto’s return to Towcesterhas seen many past friendsand customers join him atThe Bull over the Christmasperiod. Alberto has beenvery pleasantly surprisedat the number of peoplethat have paid him a visit.“Many have already spreadthe great news about thenew Restaurant in Towcesterand what a fantastic placeit is now,” says Alberto.


Food & Drink



Food & Drink


Gemma Ward AKA Treacle (formerlyof the Kings Head at Syresham) hasbrought her enthusiasm and expertiseto the Bartholomew Arms Blakesley,to transform this public house.

With works well underway, by the end of February itshould be complete. Not happy to settle for a lick ofpaint and a new carpet, Gemma and Dave will betotally re-vamping the place to include a restaurantarea serving traditional English, locally producedfood, as well as totally refurbishing the upstairsaccommodation which now boasts 3 large en-suitebedrooms and 1 room with a separate bathroom.

A new start at Blakesley’s best kept secret

as comfortable aspossible, and ofcourse, they caterfor children andbabies too.Gemma ismindful that TheBartholomew Arms

Each room has beentastefully decoratedand is completewith its own TV,coffee and teamaking facilitiesand hairdryer, tomake your stay

is, and always will be a local village pub servingthe local community, so there will be live music andentertainment on a monthly basis, the pool team willstill play in the league, and the introduction of WiFi,serves as a little watering hole for all.

Other changes will include a newbar, the re-opening of a

real fireplace, andan external door

from the poolroom toallow accessdirectlyoutside.

In this sleepy little village, theBartholomew Arms really is a well keptsecret. Join owner Dave Cambray,Gemma and her team, where you willalways find a warm welcome. Enjoy aglass of wine or a pint or two of one oftheir cask ales with some food. Food isnot available on Mondays but is servedTuesday – Saturday12pm – 3pm andagain from 6pm – 9.00pm and onSundays from 12pm – 4pm. Alternativelyyou could try one of their take-awayPizzas – Just call on 01327 860292.

A traditional Pub with modern facilities

Bartholomew ArmsPUBLIC HOUSEACCOMMODATION& RESTAURANT

Cask Ales Open Fires WiFiMusic / EntertainmentLocally Produced Food

30 High Street Blakesley, NN12 8RETel: 01327 860292

Just 5 miles from Silverstone and 3 miles from Towcester

Blakesley

The


For full details of all facilities, membership information and to join online visit:

www.southnorthantsleisure.com Tel: 01327 322480Towcester Centre for Leisure, Springfields, Towcester NN2 6UW

workoutrelax

YOUchoose

Price relates to a 12 month fixed term membership

Health, Fitness & Beauty





If you, or one of your kids or parents needed atransplant of some kind to survive and one wasoffered, would you seriously turn it down? Ofcourse you wouldn’t - hardly any of us would,

yet there are only 28% of us who have joined theOrgan Donor Register.

More than 10,000 people in the UK currently need atransplant. Of these, 1000 each year (that’s three aday) will die waiting as there are not enough organsavailable.

As a donor myself, I wonder sometimes why peopledon’t register – is it because of their religious beliefs,perhaps it’s just a bit of a “faf” to get the form andsign up or maybe just fear, either way I suspect thatif someone they cared about was in need and theycould help, I’m sure that their views would change.

I know I’d do anything I could for my family, especiallyif it meant life or death, but If I couldn’t, I would hopethat someone else was in a position to possibly savea life. Just remember that all those on the waiting list

Sign up to organ donation

for a transplant are somebody else’s kids, mums, dadshusbands and wives, so why wouldn’t we want to helpthem too?

If you believe in organ donation, prove it… Sign upnow to potentially save a life. It doesn’t have to belife threatening to you, even giving blood twice a yearcan save lives and it’s so easy to do –

Just call the NHS Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23anytime, they’re open 24 hours a day 365 days of theyear. Text SAVE to 84118 or fill out the form online atwww.organdonation.nhs.uk/ukt


Since opening her Salon at the TowcesterCentre for Leisure premises almost a yearago, Joanna Bradshaw is going fromstrength to strength.

Not content with a hair studio offering all hairdressingservices and a huge range of beauty treatments, sheis keeping up with demand by taking over the twosun bed rooms and has turned them into treatmentrooms to be able to provide Sports Massage, as wellas a “relaxation area”.New Sports Massage therapists Jenny and Keith, havejoined the team. They join - of course Joanna the hairstylist to stars of the Big Screen, Pop and Peers of theRealm, who’s clientele include Sir Michael Caine, andhis wife Shakira, Ultravox and Live and Band Aid starMidge Ure, Who legend Pete Townsend, and eightiespop icon Rick Astley to name a few. She is alwaysavailable to provide not only top quality creativecolouring (using a range of products from Goldwelland Affinage) and precision cutting, but in addition,Balamain real human hair extensions.



Images by Joanna offers

Find the time to pamper yourself

A beautiful purpose built beauty room, set in anidyllic village location, with easy parking

To book an appointment call Sirinda07725 695606 or 01327 831636Kettlebury, Suttons Walk , Astcote, NN12 8NP

TheSecret GardenBeauty Room

Less than 4 miles and 8 minutes fromTowcester on the A5 towards Weedon

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Mica, who is no stranger to the Salon, is now backproviding 5 types of nail extensions (including Minxnails, used by the rich and famous like VictoriaBeckham and Beyonce), speciality waxing, manicures& pedicures, Indian Head Massage, Facials, Eyelashtinting and perming, as well as spray tanning.

Call in at the Leisure Centre to this welcoming andrelaxing beauty salon or just call Images by Joanna orone of her team to make an appointment. You won’tbe disappointed. Telephone: 01327 358572 or visitwww.imagesbyjoanna.co.uk



more than hair styling


BACKATEASEOsteopathy Clinicat The Brook Health Centre Towcester

gentle, safe and effectivediagnosis, treatment for:

Don’t suffer youraches and pains

For appointments, class bookingsor general enquiries please call07880 750 258or email us at: [email protected]

Back painJoint or muscle pains and strainsSciaticaNeck pain

Back &Neck painJoint or muscle pains and strainsSciaticaPregnancy related discomfort

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There are two ways to approach this –eat better and take more exercise

Now the excesses of Christmas areover and the credit card bill hasarrived, many of us seek to improveour lifestyles, to feel better duringthe dark days and get in shape for

the warm weather (remember that?). Weight loss willreduce your risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseaseand cancer. It will also make you feel a lot better.

A healthy approach to weight lossit’s all about makinglong term changes.

Exercise can meanjoining the gym, but if that’snot an option for you, lookfor opportunities toincrease your activitydaily. Walk instead ofdriving. Take the stairsover the lift. Plan a biggardening project.If you’re able to, takeup some formal exercise– join the gym, buy anexercise machine to use athome, or get your trainerson and get outside.

Written byBen Burgess GP, Brook HealthCentre Towcester, 01327 323900

There are two ways to approach this – eat better andtake more exercise. The easiest way to lose weight isto improve your diet. There’s no trick to it, it’s simplycalorie reduction. Simply put, reduce your portionsizes, increase the amount of fruit and vegetables anddecrease the fat and the meat. We often don’t noticethe calories that mount up from snacks. Swap them fora glass of water. Have a month off the alcohol - it’sfull of calories. Dieting clubs really do work too, but

Yogawith Amelia Faye

07783 277521

[email protected]

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I could write pages about what Yoga means tome, and how it is part of my life, also the blessings

it has brought my way.I attended my first Yoga class at the age of 16, and

was hooked from the start. I am now early 50’s. I feel asyoung today as I did the day I walked into that 1st class.

No matter who you are or wherever you come from, therewill be times in your life that are challenging and difficult, and

how you deal with the challenge is so important.Yoga is a box of tools that you can dip into to use to change your

attitudes, your health, your strength, your confidence and the way you look and feel about yourself.

This in turn affects the way you respond to all situations difficult or challenging.It brings physical emotional and mental balance back into your life. It teaches you

to relax it is both curative and a preventative practice.Yoga is the oldest philosophy of health and well being there is, however none of the books

or DVD’s available can change your life until you experience the practice yourself.So please come and try your first session FREE of charge. It’s never too late to start living well.

In the meantime just try this. Close your eyes and be still, Concentrate on your breath as itcomes in through the nostrils and out again. Just focus and follow every breath with your mind.

Breathe long slow steady and relaxed breaths. From stillness comes peace. Namaste!

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potterspury Village hall 10.00am-11.30am

For further details or to enrol phoneMichelle on: 01327 353371 or 07749 825448

TUESDAY 1.30—3.00PMTUESDAY 7.00—8.30PMTHURDSAY 7.00—8.30PM

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HAIR & BEAUTYROWENA CURSON

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To make an appointment call Harriet

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AN Plumbing & Heating Services‘Quality In Safe Hands’

For a quote or advice call TonyTel: 01327 353997 orMob: 0772211 4808

For an upgrade to a new and efficient boileror a simple addition of a radiator or just a tapwasher to be replaced.

For a reliable and friendly service with nohidden cost. We believe on the quality ofour service that we give you a 28 day coveron all servicing and repair work that we do.

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The good news is that Britain now producesmore electricity “off shore” by windturbine farms than the rest of the collectiveworld. The down side is that the costs ofbuilding the farms have doubled due to

steel prices and the drop in the value of the Pound.If that’s not bad enough running costs are also onthe up. Costs have risen for all kinds of electricitygeneration but off shore wind farms remain by far themost expensive, 90% more than fossil fuel generatorsand 50% more than nuclear.

This is perhaps going to put the “wind” up thegovernment as their policy of using wind powerto meet its target to generate around a third of itselectricity from renewables by 2020.

All the above is very important but none more so thanthis. Britain has missed out on one vitally importantopportunity. Why did the government, its Think Tanks,Quango’s and other committees advising on the entire“green subject” miss the opportunity to advise and

Electricity by Wind Power

terry barnes tiling ltdtel: 01604 833 423mob: 07970 733 994

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create an industry for Britain? This would have led tojob creation in both skilled and unskilled labour anda realistic opportunity to pump money back into theUK economy.

After all the British are innovators and leaders in manysciences and engineering fields? Now we are payingfor it by way of increased manufacturing cost with fewjobs resulting.

Want your say on this or a similar subject?Then email [email protected]

Wind power technology:Have we blown it?

We specialise in the design of home developmentsolutions that will make you love your home again:

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National No Smoking Day - 9th March 2011

Can you believe this has been a national datein our calendars now for 28 years? It is afirm fixture because of its popularity amongstsmokers and their continued success.

Three quarters of smokers would like to stop and onNo Smoking Day over a million try. Stopping smokingrequires much planning, encouragement, support andmotivation. Helping others to prepare to quit can bedone all year round, but the Day provides an excellentfocus and motivation for many smokers to stop.

The damage thatsmoking causes toyour body is horrible,and your second-hand smoke can alsocause problems foreverybody else too,just imagine yourselfbeing smoke-free andfeeling great.

By getting support and astop smoking medicine tohelp manage your cravingsyou are up to four times morelikely to be successful, and helpis totally free.

You can attend a weekly local free NHS StopSmoking Service Group to quit with everyone else.You may prefer to have a one to one consultationappointment with your local smoking specialist.Because it’s not easy there is always help at handwith a range of different treatments available that candouble your chances of going smoke-free. There’snicotine gums, patches, microtabs, lozenges, inhalersand would you believe there are even nasal sprays!

If you want support to quit Tel: 0800 022 4 332 orEmail: [email protected]

Websites- www.smokefree.nhs.ukor www.nosmokingday.org.uk


Comic Relief was launched from arefugee camp in Sudan on ChristmasDay in 1985, live on BBC One. Atthat time, a devastating famine wascrippling Ethiopia and something had

to be done. That something was Comic Relief.

The idea was simple – Comic Relief would get awhole bunch of much-loved British comedians tomake the public laugh while they raised money tohelp people in desperate need. As well as doingsomething about the very real and direct emergencyin Ethiopia, Comic Relief was determined to helptackle the broader needs of poor and disadvantagedpeople both in Africa and here at home in the UK.

It all began with a fewlive events and, beforetoo long, Red NoseDay was created.The first ever RedNose Day in 1988

How it all began……

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Days that have followed since have raised more than£459m. That money has helped, and is helping, tosupport people and communities in dire need both inthe UK and Africa.

As well as all those famous people raising hugeamounts of money, you too can help and have greatfun, be it at home school or work, whether it’s a showof some kind where you can sell tickets, sponsoredsilence or simply wandering up and down your streetwith a bucket collecting change. Let’s be gratefulwe can.

Go to www.comicrelief.com to find out more!

took the nation bystorm – bringingtogether comedyand charity likenever before on livenational TV. It raiseda staggering £15m.The eleven Red Nose

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Contemporary glass fitted wardrobes

High quality aluminium framed sliding and hinged doors50 Different types and finishes of glass and sixteen woodgrains

For your perfect room and exclusive installationCall Harmony now on 01327 - 857580

www. glasswardrobes.co.uk

Harmony DesignWe will be exhibiting at Middleton Hall Milton Keynes Shopping Centre

Directly outside John LewisFrom Thursday 24th February To Sunday 27th February

BrooksidePlumbing & Heating Ltd

Boilers & HeatingServicingRepairsSolar Approved

104015

T: 01327 861111M: 07970 854824F: 01327 861111E: [email protected]

SteveVogan

15 BrooksideWappenham

NorthantsNN12 8SS


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A; An instrument tomeasure temperatureis called a

1. Hydrometer2. Thermometer3. Gyrometer4. Tempometer

B; The Squirrel Monkey isa type of:

1. Squirrel2. Lizard3. Monkey4. Panda

C; Another name for aTwister is:

1. Earthquake2. Tornado3. Wind4. Flood

Science & Nature QuizD; It is a bird born

out of the largestegg in the world

1. Sparrow2. Hen3. Turkey4. Ostrich

E; The seventh planetfrom the sun is:

1. Earth2. Uranus3. Mars4. Jupiter

F; An Albatross is:1. A sea bird2. A beetle3. A fruit4. A city

Tel: 01604 862379Mob: 07894 [email protected]

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toTowcester

Flat Screen TV Wall Brackets Supplied andInstalled at very competitive prices

01327 872877www.mdaviesltd.co.uk

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The one stop location for all yourstove and fireplace installation and

maintenance needs

We have a large countryside showroom displaying a full range ofwoodburning & multifuel stoves; including Clearview, Charnwood,Dunsley, Westfire & Jetmaster fires. Our HETAS registered engineerscan offer a full installation service, including fireplace alterations and

chimney work. External & internal chimney solutions available.

Please contact us for a FREE site survey and quote.

We also stock and deliver:CoalSmokeless fuelsBottled gasLogs and kindlingFireside accessoriesStove and fireplacemaintenance products

We also have an excellent rangeof high quality, teak and cast

aluminium gardenfurniture and indoorhardwood furniture.

M. Davies Ltd Badby Lane, Staverton, Northants NN11 6DE


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G; It bears the closestresemblance to man

1. Panda2. Rhino3. Chimpanzee4. Elephant

H; It is known as the shipof the desert

1. Cat2. Panther3. Camel4. Rabbit

I; The planet closest tothe sun is:1. Neptune2. Mercury3. Venus4. Saturn

J; The blanket of air thatenvelops the earth iscalled:

1. Upper crust2. Hydrosphere3. Lithospere4. Atmosphere

K; The number of bonesin the Human face is:

1. 142. 333. 154. 11

L; The largestanimal is the:

1. Giraffe2. Camel3. Blue

Whale4. Rhino

ANSWERS:

A2;B3;C2;D4;E2;F1;G3;H3;I2;J4;K1;L3.

Fireplaces Garden OrnamentsChimneys Window & Door SurroundsBalustrades Stone Flooring & Paving

Lime Mortar PointingTel: 01295 750003 / 07581 100322

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Julie Shepherd01327 857936 or 07773 297 484Weekly / Monthly. Big Cleans Welcome

LocalFully InsuredHonest, Reliable & HardworkingAvailable to Towcester &Surrounding Villages


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Unlike many of our other annual datesto remember, Valentine’s Day is alwayson the same date every year. Of course14th February is still a date which some

of us forget, so plan something special for your lovedone this year make a mental note right now that youneed to get something sorted.

The next notable date is 18th February, asthat’s when the kids break up from school.Ah Half Term, I remember it well. Trying

to entertain children who arealready bored by Sunday and

there’s still another week to gobefore some sort of normality returns.

Good luck to you all.On to 8th March for Pancake Day. Don’t

be like me and leave it until you’re on yourway home to get the vital ingredients (whichby the way - at any other time of the yearare already in the cupboards). What isthis thing about “tossing” the Pancakes

Dates to remember.....

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that makes everyonewant to eat them?The 18th March is the date for this year’s Red NoseDay. I don’t expect you’ll forget, because you won’tbe able to. It will just be a matter of time before wesee little red noses attached to anything which standsstill for long enough. Have a look at page 40 andsee how it all started.Finally, and bringing us on to a cheery end is 27thMarch when British Summer Time begins. We canstart to wave goodbye to all the dreadful weather wehave had over the past few months and look forwardto some warmer climates.So make a note in your diaries, don’t say you haven’tbeen warned…

111 WATLING STREET WEST TOWCESTER NORTHANTS NN12 6AG

Visit Olive in the newly refurbished showroom todiscuss the bathroom of your dreams. With her years

of experience her designs will excite yourImagination, Difficult shape? No problem. Olive has

an eye for the most challenging of spaces.

Visit our website www.olives-bathrooms.com

Call 01327 354076 or pop in for some expert advice at

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Call 01908 562 86807981 413 341

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Ovens, Hobs, Ranges, ExtractorsMicrowave Ovens, Canopies

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POWER PLUS ELECTRICAL & PLUMBINGPOWER

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Ring Keith on Mobile: 07968 527066 Home: 01327 830734

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01908 543469 or 07796 810066All areas covered

Fireplace BuildingMaintenance Service

Stove Servicing Industrial BoilersWood Burners Back BoilersOil Boilers Gas FluesWeddings Attended

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Professional Installations of uPVC,Timber & Aluminium - All work guaranteed

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We Supply & Fit Windows Doors & ConservatoriesReplacement Units. Repairs & Leaks a speciality

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Winter tasks in the garden

February is often the coldest month althoughthis year can it get colder? Spring is almosthere. What to do in February will dependon your local conditions. It’s usuallybetter to hold off than try to sow in cold

waterlogged ground, this will only rot seeds ratherthan germinate them.

Leeks may be ready but if a long freeze seems likelyparsnips, turnips and swede can now harvested.Cover the ground with fleece or straw to stop themfreezing solid. The cabbage family should beproviding some sustenance with earlypurple sprouting.

Prepare and wash out potsand seed trays. It’s a goodopportunity to sterilise them so yourseedlings will get off to the best possiblestart. If suitable you can sow your broad

beans in February along with earlypeas for a May / June harvest.

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Mark RussellOn 01327 260470

Mobile 07958 308459(25 years experience)


Artichokes and shallots can beplanted although shallots may benefit fromcovering with a cloche. Sow parsnips but if placedin cold wet soil poor germination may arise thereforesowing may be left to March. It’s time to sow yoursummer cabbages as well as turnips and spinach.

If you have a greenhouse, you can get an early cropof lettuce, rocket and radish. You can utilise clochesoutdoors but success will be more dependent onthe weather. With a heated propagator or usingwindowsills you can start off aubergine and peppers.Onions from seed should be started now but needabout 15 degrees to get them going so you may bebest using the window sill in acool room.

Lastly for this edition don’t forget your apple and peartrees, these can now be pruned. For more seeds,plants and gardening advice contact:

Paynes of Towcester, Tel 01327 350377

Gardens


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visit our website on www.linnellbros.co.uk

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ALL BUILDING WORK.BLOCK PAVING, PATIOS,FENCING,TURFING, DRAINAGE,ALL BRICKWORK UNDERTAKEN,GARDEN CLEARANCE,CONSERVATORY BASES, GRAVELDRIVES, JET WASHING, PONDS.

FULLY INSURED-HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FULL PORTFOLIOAVAILABLE

FREEQUOTES

TEL IAN 01327 352077 LES 01604 859584OR MOBILE 07880 870410

Gardens


The Bullat TowcesterBrackley RoadTowcesterTel: 01327 353223

As this is the first Focus tocome through your door in2011, we think it’s time fora change.Our competition haschanged to a Word Grid.We hope you’ll enjoy it asmuch as you seemed tolike the Sudoku.This issue’s prize hasbeen kindly donated by:

AEKQLast issue Sudoku

winner was:Mr H Reynolds ofTowcester.

WORD PLAY

SD

WIN!A £30 foodvoucher to spendat The Bull atTowcester

RMF

i


TOWCESTER SKIP HIRETELEPHONE 01327 353 118

YOURLOCALSKIP HIRECOMPANY..

BUILDERSPRIVATE / HOUSEHOLDWASTESOIL / RUBBLE ETC

REGISTERED WASTE CARRIERSTRADE ACOUNTS WELCOME

Call us today for more info…..

01327 353 118

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Simply make as many words from the letters in thegrid as possible. Each letter can be used only once toform a word. All words must be found in the EnglishDictionary and must consist of three letters or more.The entry with the most words wins the competition, orin the event of a tie, names will be drawn out of thehat. Editor’s decision is final. Closing date: 7th March

Send completed entries along with your name, addressand phone number to: Focus Magazine Group, The Studio,15 Buckingham Way, Towcester, Northants, NN12 6JY oremail to: [email protected]

i k c o r

u a a b p

a j i o j

w r o m b

k i e u r

AEKSDRMF

r

Tel: 07944 901144 01327 354851

FARM & FIELD SECURITY

Wireless driveway alerts 900metre range

Security posts

• Automatic gates

• Solar power gates

• Gate repair & services

Service and installation for all electric

gate systems!!

[email protected]

Automate your existing gate

New gates supplied and fitted

WROUGHT IRON & TIMBER


Create your own home

While spring quite often conjures upthoughts of spring flowers, whynot prepare a vegetable patch inyour garden this season and start

planting some of the vegetables which will see youthrough this Summer and Autumn.

Creating a vegetable patch is one of those things weall want to do but never get around to.

Start with a smallmanageable patchthis year, perhaps2 to 3 meterslong by 1.5 /2.0 meters wide.There is no excuse,

if your unable to get down to the ground, thenbuild a raised bed with some old timber or railwaysleepers, but bear in mind it takes a lot of soil to fill it.

Position in good sunlight where possible, if you arelimited for space then anywhere with a good few

Gardens


For a free consultation please contactOffice 01327 351285Mobile 07980 576305

[email protected]

Earthscape HorticulturalThe Complete Landscaping Solution

www.earthscape.org.uk

www.alohalandscapestowcester.co.uk

DRIVES • PATIOS • FENCINGOLD DRIVEWAYS CLEANED& SEALED • DECKING • TURFING

• COUNCIL APPROVED • FULLY INSURED•ALL WORK GUARANTEED

CALL US NOW FOR A FREE ESTIMATETEL: 01327 352 372 • MOB: 07850 156 674 T: 01327 855465

email [email protected]: 07753 609080

No job too small & Free Estimates

mowi

Domestic & Commercial MowingPaddock MaintenanceGarden Maintenance / ClearanceFencing / New or ReplacementHedge Cutting / TrimmingStrimming / Pressure WashingLeaf clearanceDriveway & Lawn Vacuming


hours a day will suffice.

Seeds in trays can be plantedvery early and kept indoorsin a sunny spot. In time theywill become large enoughto transplant into the patch.When planting note the detailson the seed packs and be sure the frosts are welland truly over. Some plants are hardier than othersand may be planted earlier.

Experiment with planting and spacing so that youhave a continuous supply this way you will have yoursalad, carrots, etc continuously

Focus on the preparation, then general maintenance,weed regularly and water well especially in dryperiods. Plant vegetables which you enjoy and watchthem develop. If they don’t grow as you would likethen try something else next year. Before long youwill be the envy of your friends.

vegetable patch

Gardens


DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

3 ROBIN CLOSE • TOWCESTER • NORTHANTS • NN12 6RB

BUILDING CONTRACTOR

LocalAuthorityApporved

New BuildsExtensions

RefurbishmentsLoft ConverstionConservatoriesGroundworks

DrainagePaving (All types)

FREE Quotes

Office: 01327 352728Mobile: 07531 783946

E-mail: [email protected] Guaranteed & Insured


Gardens


Early Season Offers*NOW ON

Call in and save £££’sCompost - 3 bags £10

8 Watling Street (A5)Potterspury, Northamptonshire

01908 542427www.romanwaygardencentre.co.uk

*Offers valid during February while stocks last

We’renot shyaboutour10,000 circulation, sowhywouldwebe shy to tellyouaboutourprices?118 advertisers in this edition believe it’s valueformoney, surely they can’t all bewrong?

AdvertisingRates1/4 page£401/2 page£80Full Page£160Front Cover £135Inside Front Cover £195Inside Back Cover £195Back Cover £249* VAT to be included on all above prices

Whatmakes us different? No contracts, advertise whenYOUwant Pay the same price for one advert or a run of adverts What you see is what you get... just great value for money No hidden extras... everyone pays the same - ask our advertisers All adverts displayed in full colour, only three sizes (see rates) Once your advert has been created, use it elsewhere - FREE No unreliable deliveries - FREE distribution to 7,500 homes No broken promises just free, honest and friendly helpful advice

Call TheStudioon01327353753or visit ourwebsite:www.focusmagazinegroup.co.uk

This year don’t forget to move forward yourclocks and watches on Sunday the 27th March

One hundred and fouryears so far of BritishSummer Time alsoknown as DaylightSaving Time, first

proposed by a keen horse-rider, WilliamWillett, who was incensed at the ‘waste’of useful daylight first thing in the morning, duringsummer. Though the sun had been up for hours duringhis rides through the local woods in Chislehurst andPetts Wood, people were still asleep in bed.

British Summer Time

In 1907 he published a pamphlet called The Wasteof Daylight, outlining plans to encourage people outof bed earlier in summer by changing the time on thenation’s clocks. He spent the rest of his life fighting toget acceptance of his time-shifting scheme. He died in1915 with the Government still refusing to back BST.


Gardens


ESTATE & GARDENESTATE & GARDENSERVICES LTDSERVICES LTD

block pavingfencingtimber deckingpergolaspaving & brickworkgrounds maintenance

Full public liability insurance

Contact David Ladlow for yourfree no obligation quotationPhone/Fax 01280 700947Mobile 07763 898 010

e-mail: [email protected]

plantingtree work

stump grindinghedge cutting

turfing & seedingherbicide applications

Quality Landscaping & Fencing

seasonal firewood,logs & kindlingfor fires & woodburning stovesdelivered

available now!

But the following year, Germany introduced thesystem. Britain followed in May 1916, and adoptedDaylight Saving Time in 1916, a few weeks afterGermany. For years, the British Government hadrefused to introduce Daylight Saving Time, but bythen, Britain and Germany were fighting each otherin the First World War (1914-18) and any system thatcould save fuel and money was worth trying. TheSummer Time Act of 1916 was rushed through by

Parliament and the first dayof British Summer Time, 21May 1916, was widelyreported in the press andwe have been ‘changingthe clocks’ ever since.Don’t forget to moveforward your clocks andwatches on Sunday the27th March at 01:00

GMT (02:00 BritishStandard Time).

begins – 27 March 2011


Gardens



Motoring


Steering his career towards the drivingindustry has put James Dickson on theroad to success. James is one of theyoungest fully qualified Driving Instructors

in the country and after being with one of the UK’slargest Driving Schools for around a year, he hasnow decided to step it up a gear and has started hisown Driving School - JD’s Driving School based inTowcester, and covering the surrounding areas.

Having wanted to become a Driving Instructor sincehe was 17, he finally had the chance to do soand qualified after passing the three required DSAinstructor’s exams.

James says “I do get some interesting looks as ifpeople are thinking “who is teaching who?”. Oneof the biggest advantages of being a younger DriverInstructor is that I can relate to my students effectively,as I sat the very same test they are taking. “I do feelmy age and knowledge is also an advantage whenit comes to driving home the message of safe driving,

JD’s Driving School offers the route to pass successas younger people seem to listen more when theadvice is coming from someone of a similar age”.

JD’s teaches students of all ages from the under 17s(off road) right through to a 73 year old lady whorecently undertook refresher lessons.

In March JD’s Driving school will be welcoming thearrival of the much anticipated Audi A1 Sport, anothergood reason to learn with JD’s and with the first lessonfree - why not try JD’s Driving School?

For more information please visit:www.jddrivingschool.com

NewAudi A1arriving inMarch


Motoring



What is Basic Car Insurance?

In the UK it has been a legal requirement since1930 for every person using a vehicle on theroad to have an insurance policy. Car insuranceis not only necessary by law, but it is also

important that damages caused by an accident canbe paid for.

Your car insurance policy will cover anything fromdamage to other vehicles and drivers to damageto yourself and your car. Every insurance policyis different, some are cheaper than others andtheir prices change depending on your personalcircumstances such as age, gender and experience.

This month let’s just look at the minimum requirementwhich is to insure your car with at least a third partyinsurance cover. This is the lowest policy available

The policy will only pay for damage to theother person’s vehicle and any medical

claims or injuries suffered by the occupantsin both vehicles but not you.

and covers damage toa third party (the otherperson) in the eventof an accident that isyour fault. If you are inan accident concerning a thirdparty, this policy will cover damages to thatcar and any injured occupants. The policy willonly pay for damage to the other person’s vehicleand any medical claims or injuries suffered by theoccupants in both vehicles but not you. Third PartyInsurance does not cover damage to your carincluding theft or repair if it is stolen or set on fire.

When looking for car insurance, it is important tounderstand the different types of policies available,and their limitations. Some policies will insure formore eventualities than others, and you need toensure you choose the correct policy without payingtoo much. Next time Third party Fire & Theft andFully Comprehensive Insurance explained.

Motoring


2Brackley

Road, Tow

cesterEstablished 25 yrs

TOWCESTER COACHWORKSExperienced

Porsche&Mercedes

TrainedTechnicians

CRASH REPAIR SPECIALISTS

Towcester 01327 358576

Good selection of Second-handcars with warrantyMOT Work & Servicing UndertakenFull Restoration work undertakenFibreglass RepairsJig WorkCrash Repairs & RecoveryBumper Repairs, Chips & ScratchesBody Kit ModificationsAlloy Wheel RefurbishmentRacing Car Bodywork SpecialistsRemoval of Service Dash Lights

Insurance Claim? One call to us & we do the rest!

FREE

Estimates

Mobile 07739 705788

Call the Experts……...


Motoring


On Time, Every Time , Professional Local Drivers

Tel: 01327 354300 or 07885 984321www.mkcorporatecars.co.uk London Road Towcester

CarsMini BusesMPV’s

Bridal Cars AvailableMercedes Limousine (S500) 4 Seats for Executive Hire

MK Corporate Cars

By appointment only

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FORTHE HENLEY REGATTA & DERBY DAY - EPSOM

Book now to avoid disappointment

CALL NOW ONTOWCESTER 01327 353999

FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE!

Unit 22 Burcote Wood Farm Business ParkWood Burcote Towcester Northants NN12 8TA

SERVICING ALL MAKES & MODELS

MOT’sRepairs

ServicingDiagnostics

BrakesExhausts

TyresAir Conditioning

BOOK YOURAIR CONDITIONING

NOWDON’T WAITFOR SUMMER

VERY Competitive Rates


Motoring


Hillside GarageHillside Garage(Whittlebury) Ltd(Whittlebury) Ltd

MOT’s & Prep Work WeldingBrakes Clutches Diagnostics Full

& Interim Services Exhausts

For all yourservicing

requirements

Local Delivery & Collection can be arranged

(Workshop) 01327 858222(Workshop) 01327 858222(Mobile) 07961503268(Mobile) 07961503268

Unit 1, Home Farm Business ParkUnit 1, Home Farm Business ParkOff Church Way, Whittlebury,NN12 8XSOff Church Way, Whittlebury,NN12 8XS

As a Well Established (22 yrs) Local &friendly Garage, providing you with Qualityrepairs & all your servicing needs. Wecover all surrounding areas & villages.

Call or email [email protected] today

TOWCESTERVALETINGSERVICES

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK FOR VALETS FROM £5 TO £60

74 Watling Street Towcester Northants NN12 6BS(In Silverstone Recovery and Car Sales)

Call Dan now for more information on 07742 209 689

10%10%DiscountDiscount

when mentioning thisadvert

www.towcestervaletingservices.co.uk

You could be advertising yourbusiness here from just

£20 per month and be seen by over10,000 homes and businesses inTowcester and surrounding villages.

Interested?Contact us now to find out more...

Tel: 01327 353753Mobile: 07754 434 960

Email: [email protected]


Motoring


Towcester Driving SchoolLearn to drive…..

Towcester: 01327 351767Mobile: 07737 187299e: [email protected]

www.towcesterdrivingschool.co.uk

Birthday / Gift Vouchers AvailableTheory TestsFriendly Female InstructorsAll Level BeginnersPass PlusMotorway LessonsFleet Assessment / Coaching

Ian Pattenden

Covering Towcesterand Surrounding Villages.

PLUS, Under 17s driving tuitionoff public roads at

Turweston Aerodrome.

01327 855882 07866 809168

ianpattenden@drivingambition.infowww.drivingambition.infoFacebook: Ian Pattenden

NEW FIAT 500!

Experienced,Enthusiastic

Driving Instructorbased in Silverstone.

LUXURY TRAVEL - GREAT VALUEOFFICE: 6 Park Street, Towcester, Northants NN12 6DQ DEPOT: The Park, Brackley Road Towcester

NOT JUST FOR TAXIS

Check out our website for more details www.smsxtrav.co.uk [email protected]

Mini Buses & Coaches 6 - 53 SeatersAlso: Corporate Travel Airport Transfers Chauffeur Driven Mercedes Taxis

01327 353118



Event organised by Central Exhibitions LtdEnquiries 01908 305123 www.centralexhibitions.co.uk

Follow road signs to thecentre:mk,central shopping from M1 Junction 13or 14 or the A5

Friday February 4th -Sunday February 6th 2011

FREE

adm

ission

Middleton Hall, near John Lewis

Show Opening Times:Friday 9:30am-8:00pmSaturday 9:00am-6:00pmSunday 11:00am-5:00pm

Catwalk Fashion Shows on Saturday & SundayAround 130 Wedding Service ExhibitorsAround 25 Venue ExhibitorsProbably the region's largest Wedding Exhibition

One of theregion's largestWedding Showswith around 130

Exhibitors


Documents

Focus Towcester