Gerrards Cross Together May June 2024
Online #community magazine providing local news and views servicing Gerrards Cross, Chalfont St Peter, Stoke Poges, and other parts of South Buckinghamshire. News from Gerrards Cross Town Council and other charities, groups and organisations. Visit www.gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk for more information
Online #community magazine providing local news and views servicing Gerrards Cross, Chalfont St Peter, Stoke Poges, and other parts of South Buckinghamshire. News from Gerrards Cross Town Council and other charities, groups and organisations. Visit www.gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk for more information
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GERRARDS CROSS<br />
<strong>Together</strong><br />
NEWS AND VIEWS<br />
Fostering - p20<br />
<strong>May</strong>ors Report - p8<br />
Scam & Safety Talk - p15<br />
GXCA Fund Raising events<br />
Grow your own organic vegetables - p18<br />
Join GX Town Council for the King Charles' Party in the Park - p2<br />
View ONLINE: <strong>Gerrards</strong><strong>Cross</strong><strong>Together</strong>.co.uk<br />
Welfare of older people<br />
01753 917241<br />
EARLY SUMMER EDITION<br />
SAVE THE DATE<br />
Sunday 18th <strong>May</strong><br />
For help or food donations<br />
office@onecantrust.org.uk<br />
Tel: 01494 512 277<br />
<strong>May</strong>/<strong>June</strong> <strong>2024</strong> Issue 4
KING CHARLES’<br />
PARTY IN THE PARK<br />
15 TH JUNE <strong>2024</strong><br />
West<br />
West<br />
Common<br />
Common<br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong><br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong><br />
<strong>Cross</strong><br />
<strong>Cross</strong><br />
12 - 7pm<br />
GERRARDS<br />
GERRARDS<br />
CROSS CROSS<br />
TOWN TOWN COUNCIL<br />
COUNCIL<br />
Junior<br />
Junior<br />
Entertainment,<br />
Entertainment,<br />
Stalls,<br />
Stalls,<br />
Food,<br />
Food,<br />
Live<br />
Live<br />
Music<br />
Music<br />
From<br />
From<br />
Chemistry<br />
Chemistry<br />
Band<br />
Band<br />
FREE ADMISSION<br />
Hosted by GERRARDS CROSS TOWN COUNCIL<br />
Hosted by GERRARDS CROSS TOWN COUNCIL<br />
clerk@gerrardscross.gov.uk<br />
clerk@gerrardscross.gov.uk
Park view on GX East Common<br />
Useful Numbers<br />
Mental Help Helpline 24/7<br />
t: 0800 783 0119 / 01865 904 997<br />
National Domestic Abuse Helpline 24/7<br />
t: 0808 2000 247<br />
Chilterns Dial-a-ride for those with<br />
mobility problems t: 01494 766 123<br />
Alcoholics Anonymous<br />
Call confidentially on: t: 0800 917 7650<br />
Be Amazing and Volunteer<br />
Age UK’s Befriending service matches older<br />
people with volunteers who have similar interests.<br />
t: 01296 431911<br />
e: age@ageukbucks.org.uk<br />
GERRARDS CROSS<br />
<strong>Together</strong><br />
Hello and welcome<br />
Some of you may know that I moved to Cornwall, it was a<br />
spiritual calling. A beautiful place to wake up to but there is so<br />
much poverty. Homelessness, low incomes and difficulty to<br />
provide the basic commodity of food and to make ends meet.<br />
There is an organisation that has cooked breakfasts for the<br />
homeless for over 25 years! It’s run by volunteers and I was<br />
drawn to do my bit, It’s amazing. I’ve got to know some of the<br />
clients really well and some of their situations are desperate<br />
but they are so grateful its heart-warming and makes it all<br />
worth while.<br />
It’s so easy to think we are positive but actually there is a lot<br />
of negativity in our thoughts and words. Fault finding, being<br />
critical, anger and frustration are all unloving negative emotions<br />
which at the end of day only harm ourselves. For example<br />
there is a major problem with flooding in CSP it is perceived<br />
as disruptive and annoying. But what can we learn from this?<br />
Should we get angry about it. Should we start blaming people<br />
for not doing more? Instead what can we do to help?<br />
<strong>May</strong>be being grateful for what help is being given, think of<br />
those hard working people draining the water day in and day<br />
out, we could personally thank them for their efforts. We could<br />
be grateful for water being readily available on tap to drink.<br />
We could donate to the organisation that helps Chiltern rivers<br />
and streams in the Chalfonts. We could say a few words of<br />
thanks to all who are trying to alleviate the situation.<br />
By having awareness of our emotions and thoughts on a<br />
daily basis can we truly understand ourselves and other<br />
peoples’ situations so we can be more loving, understanding,<br />
be grateful for what we have and have inner forgiveness<br />
for others and ourselves. We are not perfect, it isn’t easy<br />
but trying is a start. I wish you all well.<br />
Bucks Mind in Buckinghamshire<br />
Volunteers over 18 years needed<br />
t: 01494 463364 or<br />
w: www.bucksmind.org.uk<br />
With love,<br />
Therese<br />
NEXT COPY DEADLINES!<br />
July/August <strong>2024</strong><br />
Editorials: 20th <strong>June</strong><br />
Advertisers: 21st <strong>June</strong><br />
Meet the Team<br />
Publisher, Editor & Sales<br />
Therese Cooklin - 07786 735 711<br />
Magazine Designer<br />
Mathew Peet, Digital Bear Design - 01949 839 206<br />
Content is accurate to the best of our knowledge, however <strong>Gerrards</strong><br />
<strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> is part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd<br />
cannot be held liable for loss or damage, caused by errors or omissions.<br />
Inclusion of advertisers does not indicate our endorsement of their<br />
products or services.<br />
The opinions and findings expressed in articles submitted to this<br />
publication are solely those of the authors and should not be assumed<br />
to be those of <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> or its affiliates.<br />
t: 07786 735 711<br />
e: therese@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk<br />
w: gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk<br />
Want to be a Community<br />
Champion Sponsor?<br />
We are offering select advertising spots on<br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> website. Join us<br />
in making this community come together<br />
spreading positive news to all.
A local family run<br />
business specialising in<br />
FENCING &<br />
LANDSCAPING<br />
Experienced, Friendly<br />
& Professional Internal<br />
& External Decorators.<br />
We have been<br />
working in & around<br />
Beaconsfield,<br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>,<br />
Amersham &<br />
surrounding areas<br />
since 1993.<br />
Please call to discuss<br />
your requirements.<br />
Call Nigel:<br />
01494 681 794 or 07771 521 263<br />
www.ngilliedecoratingservices.co.uk<br />
Other services include:<br />
Driveways<br />
Patios<br />
Concrete Bases & Shed Bases<br />
Free quotations<br />
Fully insured<br />
01494 413 315<br />
07748 922 776<br />
Infinityfencingandlandscapes.com<br />
Caring for our<br />
foster carers<br />
At Bucks County Council they understand<br />
that to be a great carer, you need great<br />
support too.<br />
In addition to 24/7 support, extensive training,<br />
and highly competitive financial allowances for<br />
foster carers, they are launching a brand new,<br />
unique and exciting package of perks and<br />
benefits exclusively for Buckinghamshire<br />
Council foster carers during Foster Care<br />
Fortnight.<br />
When you start to build a foster family with<br />
Buckinghamshire Council, you become part of<br />
an even bigger, brilliant fostering family who all<br />
have one thing in common; we care.<br />
Foster Care Fortnight <strong>2024</strong><br />
Between 13 and 26 <strong>May</strong>, they will be<br />
celebrating the Fostering Network’s national<br />
recognition of Foster Care Fortnight.<br />
This year’s theme is #FosteringMoments – come<br />
and join at one of their events and find out about<br />
how you can work together to build a child’s future.<br />
Fostering information evening<br />
Special information evening on Thursday 23<br />
<strong>May</strong>, at The Gateway, Aylesbury, to:<br />
• meet the fostering team<br />
• hear first-hand accounts from our foster carers<br />
• network with other potential carers<br />
• hear the full details of our new offer<br />
The event is on from 6:30pm until 8:30pm.<br />
4 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
Providing electrical<br />
services for over<br />
15 years<br />
Services provided;<br />
• 24/7 Emergency call out<br />
• Fault finding<br />
• Electrical inspection and maintenance<br />
• Fuse box replacement<br />
• Full or partial rewiring<br />
• EICR<br />
• Security lighting<br />
• Smoke alarm installation<br />
• Car charger installation<br />
• Smart Control<br />
• Landscape lighting design<br />
and installation<br />
• Heating and hot water wiring<br />
inc air source heat pump<br />
Fully insured<br />
Free quotations please call:<br />
Ross - 0778 8787 828<br />
ross@envisage-sparks.co.uk<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 5
<strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />
Fun Run<br />
2025<br />
Do something amazing VOLUNTEER<br />
on the GX Fun Run Committee<br />
We need help with:<br />
* Registrations<br />
* Route planning<br />
* Volunteer co-ordination<br />
* Children’s races<br />
* Marshalling<br />
* Site management<br />
A community 5km family fun run event in <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong><br />
This event has been kindly sponsored by businesses<br />
in the area. In 2022 we raised over £40k for local charities.<br />
If you would like to be a sponsor or volunteer email:<br />
gxfunrun@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk<br />
6 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
WANTED<br />
Sales Consultant for<br />
Community Magazines<br />
Suit work- from - home parent<br />
Fit in around school pick-up<br />
Flexible hours<br />
Commission based<br />
Requirements:<br />
Must love their community<br />
Personable & Organised<br />
Highly Motivated.<br />
IT literate<br />
Send your CV to:<br />
marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 7
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
<strong>May</strong>or’s Report<br />
Well, here we are, enjoying the signs of<br />
Spring amidst the lush, green areas of our<br />
beautiful town. As I write, I see daffodils,<br />
tulips, primroses – providing some very<br />
welcome colour after a long, dark and<br />
damp winter. It is good to see parents and<br />
children able to enjoy our swings and slides<br />
on East Common. It gives me particular<br />
pleasure to see teenagers playing basketball<br />
– at last there is something on offer for their<br />
age group.<br />
Your local town councillors will, once again, be<br />
organising a Party in the Park. Do put the date<br />
in your diaries - 15th <strong>June</strong> <strong>2024</strong>. This year we are<br />
calling it “The King Charles Party in the Park” in<br />
recognition of our new monarch. This will coincide<br />
with Trooping of the Colour in London on that<br />
day. Some of you may be aware that 15th <strong>June</strong> is<br />
also Beer Day Britain. Whoops! I didn’t see that<br />
one coming. Not exactly ideal for a family day out!<br />
Please drink with care.<br />
In November the local councillors will also<br />
present their Christmas Extravaganza which<br />
has now become an annual community event.<br />
What has your Town Council done for you over<br />
the last 3 months as a resident of GX?<br />
Our Hay Warden has retired after many years of<br />
service, so we have engaged another company to<br />
cut the grass on both Commons. We are pleased<br />
to report that they appear to be doing a good<br />
job so far.<br />
We are well aware that the issue of pot holes in<br />
our roads is an issue of great local concern. With<br />
better weather on the way, the Buckinghamshire<br />
Council is starting to make progress with repairs.<br />
This is an enormous task with a limited budget,<br />
but be assured that GXTC will continue to lobby<br />
on your behalf.<br />
Some of you may be aware that our wonderful<br />
Memorial Centre on East Common faces some<br />
enormous financial challenges. This year that<br />
have faced many estate management problems,<br />
including a leaking roof, a boiler replacement<br />
and, of course, the general upkeep of the fabric<br />
of a building of historic interest. The Centre was<br />
given to <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> residents in memory of<br />
those who lost their lives in the two wars and,<br />
amongst other things, is home to dozens of local<br />
clubs and societies. GXTC is pleased to support<br />
the Memorial Centre with an annual grant but<br />
more needs to be done. I should like to urge<br />
each and every one of you to support our local<br />
gem. Please consider becoming a member<br />
by paying a modest annual membership fee.<br />
Meet your friends in the friendly cafe. Help as a<br />
volunteer at their events. As they say - Use it or<br />
Lose it!<br />
Wishing you all a happy<br />
and healthy summer.<br />
Cllr Brian Peck, Chairman<br />
and <strong>May</strong>or of <strong>Gerrards</strong><br />
<strong>Cross</strong><br />
8 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 9
Safe & gentle ear wax<br />
removal at a clinic<br />
near you<br />
Microsuctioning<br />
At Hearwego Clinic we provide instant and effective ear wax removal treatment. Microsuction is the gold<br />
standard method of ear wax removal.<br />
Unlike traditional ear syringing or irrigation, which uses water, microsuction uses gentle suction to remove<br />
ear wax. This is a safe, gentle and effective method of ear wax removal and, in the majority of cases, provides<br />
instant relief and immediately restores full hearing. Our Audiologists are trained in all methods<br />
of ear wax removal, microsuction, ear irrigation (commonly known as ear syringing) and<br />
instrumentation.<br />
What to expect at your appointment<br />
At Hearwego our practitioners will use a microscope to see a detailed view of your<br />
ear canal and examine the potential build-up of ear wax. Ear wax and debris are<br />
removed using a gentle device. Our appointments include an examination of your<br />
ears and removal of ear wax using microsuction, which typically lasts between 10-30<br />
minutes. Depending on the consistency of the wax, we may need to revert to ear<br />
irrigation (commonly known as ear syringing) or instrumentation. In rare cases, a<br />
follow-up visit may be required to remove particularly stubborn ear wax.<br />
FREE<br />
Hearing<br />
Test with<br />
every Wax<br />
Removal<br />
Are you experiencing any of the following?<br />
• Pressure in the ears<br />
• Blocked feeling in the ears<br />
• Need to pop your ears but can’t<br />
• Sudden loss of hearing or muffles sound<br />
• Hearing aids whistling<br />
• Underperforming hearing aids<br />
Call for more information on<br />
Call: 07903 013 123 / 07535 603 744 or<br />
01494 590 860<br />
Email: hearwego.beaconsfield@gmail.com<br />
New website: www.hearwegoaudiology.co.uk<br />
The Studio, 37 Station Road, Beaconsfield HP9 1QG<br />
10 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
Providing Outstanding<br />
Home Care<br />
Call for a friendly chat on 01494 917344<br />
or visit ashridgehomecare.co.uk<br />
Ashridge Home Care specialises in providing highly<br />
personalised one to one care that enables people to remain<br />
in the comfort of their own home. We are one of the few<br />
care companies to offer both around the clock live-in care,<br />
as well as daily visiting care. Whatever your situation, we<br />
believe everyone should be able to stay in their own home<br />
with just the right amount of help and companionship to<br />
remain safe and independent.<br />
You may only need help for a couple of hours a week<br />
with light housework and to keep on top of chores or<br />
you may require more specialist 24 hour support from a<br />
professionally trained live-in carer. Ashridge Home Care<br />
can arrange for qualified carers to help in any situation.<br />
Do Something Amazing and<br />
VOLUNTEER<br />
(see p3)<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 11
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
The expansion of<br />
KCAFC Lionesses<br />
The atmosphere at Kings Church<br />
Amersham Football Club (KCAFC) was<br />
charged with excitement this February<br />
as they unveiled their latest addition: the<br />
U7/8 Lionesses team, catering to girls in<br />
school years 2 and 3.<br />
It’s been a journey spanning 18 months, from<br />
the inception of a waiting list with a handful<br />
of interested girls to the recruitment of two<br />
dedicated parents turned qualified coaches,<br />
ultimately laying the groundwork for the team’s<br />
formation.<br />
After a month of rigorous training sessions,<br />
the girls had the opportunity to showcase their<br />
skills in a joint training session alongside the<br />
First Touch Girls Academy. Their sights are now<br />
set on their first tournament with the Bucks<br />
Girls League scheduled for April, marking a<br />
significant milestone for the burgeoning<br />
Lionesses.<br />
U8 to U12’s supporting the Lionesses v Sweden at Wembley<br />
on Friday 5th April<br />
The KCAFC Lionesses are rapidly expanding,<br />
with teams spanning various age groups<br />
including U9/10, U11, and U12. There are<br />
still openings in all these categories, extending<br />
a warm invitation to any girls interested in<br />
joining the ranks of this dynamic and thriving<br />
community. KCAFC reinforces its commitment<br />
to nurturing young talent and fostering a<br />
supportive environment where girls can thrive<br />
both on and off the field. As the Lionesses<br />
continue to roar, their spirit and determination<br />
define the heart of grassroots football.<br />
For more information on attending a<br />
taster session, please reach out via email at<br />
membership@kcafc.co.uk.<br />
Turn peddle power<br />
into vital funds for<br />
charity!<br />
Buckinghamshire’s Biggest Charity Bike<br />
Ride is back on Sunday 9th <strong>June</strong> <strong>2024</strong> and<br />
everyone’s invited.<br />
Organised and run by Aylesbury based<br />
WheelPower, the Bucks Radio Tour de Vale<br />
Bike Ride is celebrating its 20th birthday<br />
this year. With something for everyone, there are<br />
three beautiful countryside routes, with exclusive<br />
access to the picturesque Eythrope Park.<br />
Starting and finishing at Stoke Mandeville<br />
Stadium, birthplace of the Paralympic<br />
movement, come together with family, friends<br />
and work colleagues to experience a unique<br />
ride and raise money to transform the lives of<br />
disabled people. With full support along the<br />
way, you’ll have marshals cheering you on,<br />
regular water stops, first aid, support vehicles<br />
and a medal waiting for you at the finish line.<br />
After the ride you’ll find entertainment from<br />
Bucks Radio, sports massages ready to tend to<br />
any aches and pains, alongside a BBQ and bar<br />
to re-fuel and enjoy with family and friends.<br />
Find out more and sign up by visiting<br />
www.tourdevale.com<br />
12 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
Meditation on Twin Hearts<br />
with<br />
Healing Clinic<br />
FOR BETTER PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL WELLBEING<br />
Relax, sit comfortably and enjoy this meditation to reduce<br />
stress, increase happiness and leave you with a sense of inner calm.<br />
Experience a Taster Pranic Therapy Treatment, one of the fastest<br />
growing complementary therapies worldwide, effective for the<br />
treatment of any physical or psychological conditions.<br />
7:30 - 9pm<br />
2nd and 4th Tuesday of the Month<br />
Chalfont St Peter Community Centre, Gravel Hill,<br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong>, SL9 9QX<br />
£5 donation to<br />
Reg: 1188773<br />
Contact: Inger Lise Howarth 07770 815715<br />
www.ukpranichealing.co.uk<br />
Institute of Pranic Healing<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email UK marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk & Ireland<br />
13
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
GX Fun Run<br />
news update<br />
Join 1500 runners on Sunday 18th <strong>May</strong><br />
2025 so get the date booked into your<br />
diaries! It may seem a long way off but<br />
plans are already in action to organise<br />
the largest community event which<br />
will help to raise funds for worthy local<br />
causes.<br />
The last event was in 2022 and the fun run<br />
raised just over £40,000 for Hearing Dogs<br />
for the Deaf, William’s Fund and Liberty’s<br />
Legacy.<br />
If you are a business and want to become<br />
a sponsor please let us know. Email:<br />
gxfunrun@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk<br />
Updates will be shortly posted on:<br />
www.gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk/gxfunrun<br />
We are delighted to announce some amazing<br />
Gold Sponsors have already committed to the<br />
event. These include; Savills Estate Agents,<br />
BP Collins, <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> Golf Club and Frost<br />
Partnership.<br />
Chalfont St Peter<br />
Community Library<br />
In addition to 11,000 books for<br />
adults and children, Chalfont St Peter<br />
Community Library has two first floor<br />
meeting rooms that can be hired.The<br />
library itself is also available for hire when<br />
it is closed to the public (evenings, some<br />
Mondays, Thursday, Saturday afternoon,<br />
Sunday.) Hire rates start from £10 an<br />
hour.<br />
Meeting Room 1 on the first floor can<br />
accommodate eight to ten people and has<br />
the flexibility to be set up in a number of<br />
ways to satisfy a variety of meeting needs.<br />
Meeting Room 2 is a more intimate space<br />
and is ideal for smaller meetings or as a break<br />
out room.<br />
Other facilities include:<br />
Free wi-fi, Free internet, Printing, Photocopying<br />
Scanning, Public computers on both floors,<br />
Electronic advertising display screen, Free<br />
online resources, E-library, Refreshment<br />
and washroom facilities are available on the<br />
ground floor. Some free parking is available<br />
on site, with further public parking available<br />
within 200m.<br />
If you would like more information about hiring<br />
a Meeting Room or the Library itself email:<br />
enquiries@csp-communitylibrary.co.uk<br />
14 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 15
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Our services will help you to:<br />
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Find out more and get in touch at www.walter-partners.co.uk<br />
Investments and the income from them can go down in value. Walter & Partners Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.<br />
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To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 17
GARDENING<br />
The delights of<br />
growing organic<br />
vegetables from<br />
seeds<br />
words by Doc Greenfingers<br />
There’s a very special satisfaction in<br />
nurturing vegetables from tiny seeds into<br />
a thriving garden. Going organic takes it<br />
a step further, ensuring healthy produce<br />
and a balanced ecosystem in your own<br />
garden, allotment or even windowsill.<br />
Here’s a simple way forward to get you<br />
started:<br />
or online retailers specializing in organic seeds<br />
are good resources.<br />
Initial Planting:<br />
• Sowing Time: Timing is everything! Seed<br />
packets usually provide specific sowing<br />
recommendations. Some vegetables like<br />
beans and peas prefer cooler weather for<br />
germination, while tomatoes and peppers<br />
benefit from warmer soil temperatures.<br />
• Direct Sowing vs. Seed Trays: Larger<br />
seeds like beans and peas can be directly<br />
sown outdoors once the risk of frost has<br />
passed. Smaller seeds or those requiring<br />
warm germination temperatures benefit from<br />
starting indoors in seed trays a few weeks<br />
before transplanting. Seed trays with a<br />
clear dome help retain moisture and are not<br />
expensive.<br />
• Planting Depth: A general rule is to plant<br />
seeds at a depth two to three times their own<br />
thickness. Seed packets usually have specific<br />
instructions.<br />
Preparation is Key:<br />
• Plan Your Patch: Sunlight is crucial for most<br />
vegetables. Choose a well-lit area, ideally at<br />
least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Research<br />
your chosen vegetables’ needs for spacing and<br />
growing season.<br />
• Soil Matters: Organic vegetables thrive in<br />
fertile, well-draining soil. Improve your existing<br />
soil with organic compost is a great way to<br />
boost nutrients and drainage. And raised<br />
beds offer even more control over soil quality.<br />
• Seed Selection: Always aim to go for organic<br />
seeds! These are untreated and come from<br />
non-genetically-modified plants. Local nurseries<br />
18 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
Nurturing Your Seedlings:<br />
• Watering: Consistent moisture is vital,<br />
especially during germination. Use a gentle<br />
spray to avoid dislodging seeds. Seedlings<br />
need moist but not soggy soil.<br />
• Light Matters: Seedlings need plenty of<br />
light, even when started indoors. Rotate trays<br />
regularly for even growth. Consider using grow<br />
lights if natural light is limited.<br />
• Thinning: Once seedlings have established<br />
a few sets of true leaves, it’s time to thin. This<br />
allows stronger plants room to grow. Gently<br />
remove weaker seedlings or pinch them at the<br />
soil line.<br />
Planting Outdoors:<br />
• Transplanting: Harden off seedlings before<br />
transplanting outdoors. Gradually expose<br />
them to outdoor conditions for a week or so.<br />
Dig planting holes according to seed packet<br />
instructions and space plants appropriately.<br />
• Organic Fertilizers: Throughout the growing<br />
season, support your plants with organic<br />
fertilizers.<br />
• Weed Control: Mulch around your plants<br />
with organic materials like straw or shredded<br />
leaves. This suppresses weeds, retains<br />
moisture, keeps pests at bay and regulates<br />
soil temperature.<br />
Organic Pest Management:<br />
• Companion Planting: Certain plants deter<br />
pests naturally. Interplanting with herbs like<br />
marigolds or nasturtiums can help keep<br />
unwanted insects at bay.<br />
• Encourage Beneficials: Attract ladybirds<br />
and other beneficial insects by planting<br />
flowering herbs or allowing some native<br />
wildflowers to grow around your veggie patch.<br />
• Organic Pest Control: For persistent pests,<br />
use organic methods like insecticidal soap,<br />
citrus or mineral oil and neem spray..<br />
With careful planning, dedication, and these<br />
organic practices, you’ll be well on your way<br />
to cultivating a thriving vegetable garden<br />
bursting with fresh, healthy produce!<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 19
What’s involved in<br />
Fostering?<br />
Foster Carers Bobbie and Daniel’s<br />
inspiring fostering journey explains<br />
how they have advocated for their<br />
child at the highest possible level.<br />
Bobbie believes a ‘foster carer should be<br />
a keen advocate, who can keep calm in<br />
stressful situations, always puts their child first,<br />
and keeps a good working relationship with<br />
all the professional bodies involved’. Having<br />
fostered with Nexus Fostering for five years, the<br />
couple continues to provide positive outcomes<br />
for children and young people.<br />
Bobbie had worked in childcare for over twenty<br />
years as a registered nanny and childminder.<br />
Now that her sons, 21 and 32, were already<br />
adults - and with one at University, Bobbie<br />
explained, ‘We had talked as a family and<br />
made a combined decision that this could work<br />
for us. We felt it was a golden opportunity to<br />
foster’.<br />
After speaking to a few agencies, Bobbie<br />
and Daniel felt Nexus Fostering was the right<br />
agency for them. They explained, ‘It had more<br />
of a family feel to it. I felt we could be part of<br />
that process.’<br />
Bobbie explains the highs and lows of their<br />
journey so far. ‘The highs are the children’s<br />
achievements - being able to advocate<br />
successfully and giving them the best possible<br />
opportunities. Our foster child loves the family<br />
and has performed amazingly in education. We<br />
still have challenges, but we approach these<br />
with love and care’.<br />
The couple say ‘make everything as transparent<br />
as possible; trust with a foster child is key.<br />
Managing expectations is important - your<br />
foster child isn’t necessarily going to respond<br />
to the same parenting techniques that<br />
you had with your birth children. Nexus<br />
Fostering’s therapeutic support has been<br />
vital for us, another reason we chose them.<br />
Bobbie has a wealth of knowledge and<br />
gives the following advice to anyone who is<br />
considering becoming a foster carer:-<br />
-Make sure you are proactive - ask for<br />
clarification whenever you need to.<br />
-It’s important to advocate for your foster<br />
children: questioning actions is part of your<br />
responsibility.<br />
-Don’t take things personally- fostering can be<br />
challenging, but it is never about you.<br />
-It’s great to keep a good sense of humour<br />
along the way!<br />
-Remember that you are integral to a child’s life<br />
journey, which changes constantly.<br />
-Fostering can be for many children in a<br />
household or just one, but know that you will<br />
change a life positively, forever.<br />
If you want to help create<br />
positive outcomes for<br />
children and young people<br />
- like Bobbie and Daniel<br />
have, contact Nexus<br />
Fostering by visiting<br />
www.nexusfostering.co.uk<br />
or calling 0208 864 6040.<br />
20 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
Special offer<br />
Celebrate this <strong>May</strong> and <strong>June</strong> with<br />
a glass of Fizz on arrival<br />
from Riwaz!<br />
QUOTE<br />
'<strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong>'<br />
when booking.<br />
Celebrate Fathers Day on Sunday 16th <strong>June</strong><br />
Treat him to a 3 course menu for £30pp<br />
T's and C's apply see below<br />
riwazrestaurants.co.uk<br />
@riwazbucks<br />
Riwaz by Atul Kochhar<br />
41 Aylesbury End<br />
Beaconsfield, HP9 1LU<br />
Parking: Off street &<br />
at Travel Lodge car park<br />
T's & C's<br />
To qualify for a complimentary<br />
glass of champagne you must<br />
order a minimum of 2 courses,<br />
not available on special days.<br />
Only valid when dining off the Reservations: 020 3667 9990<br />
a la cartemenu or the tasting<br />
menu.<br />
Takeaway: 01494 417 941<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 21
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
COAM Campfire<br />
Story Time<br />
A rich and diverse history of the people<br />
of the Chilterns was the theme for this<br />
year’s Campfire Heritage Stories event at<br />
Chiltern Open Air Museum.<br />
Dozens of families braved the chilly weather<br />
to cram into the 16th Century barn to hear<br />
tales told by community representatives<br />
whose families settled in our area from far<br />
warmer climes - Jamaica, Barbados, Kenya<br />
and Uganda.<br />
Their stories painted a vivid picture of their<br />
experiences of moving to a new home,<br />
how they struggled and adapted to a new<br />
culture, and how they had enriched their new<br />
communities with the flavours, colours, and<br />
wisdom from the homes they left behind.<br />
Among the speakers, Elizabeth Dench, one<br />
of the first black women to ever work as cabin<br />
crew for British Airways predecessors BOAC,<br />
impressed the audience with her experience<br />
representing Jamaica at the Miss World<br />
contest in 1970; the famous one that was<br />
disrupted by women’s liberation protestors.<br />
She came to settle here with her family later in<br />
the decade.<br />
The stories were all told with the use of<br />
everyday objects from the Museum’s<br />
collection that evoked strong memories.<br />
Karen Bonner, Chief Nurse of Buckinghamshire<br />
NHS Trust, told how her parents came from<br />
Jamaica and Barbados and kept the memories<br />
of the islands alive through their cooking and<br />
by having one room spick and span and only<br />
for visitors. Karen confessed that she and her<br />
brother had often snuck in to play despite<br />
the strict rule. Her mother, who was in the<br />
audience, seemed genuinely shocked.<br />
Following the event, more stories were shared<br />
and connections made between visitors and<br />
Storytellers whilst toasting marshmallows<br />
around the roaring campfire.<br />
Recordings of COAM’s Campfire Heritage<br />
Stories will be available via the Museum’s<br />
website. The project is supported by The<br />
Rothschild Foundation.<br />
Museum General Manager, Helen Light said,<br />
“It was a great, heart-warming afternoon. We<br />
have twenty more special events at COAM to<br />
look forward to this year. We hope to see you<br />
all soon.”<br />
22 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 23
24 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
Find us at Beaconsfield Market<br />
every Tuesday 8am until 2pm<br />
We stock shrubs, perennials, spring bulbs,<br />
seasonal baskets and bedding plants<br />
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram<br />
finest_plants<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 25
GERRARDS Digging for CROSS Diamonds<br />
<strong>Together</strong> BRAIN MATTER<br />
DIGGING FOR DIAMONDS<br />
Each four-letter word can be found in a diamond<br />
shape in the grid (one has already been entered,<br />
as an example), and every word will start at the top<br />
of the diamond and flow in either a clockwise or<br />
anticlockwise direction.<br />
BEDS<br />
BULB<br />
FORK<br />
LAWN<br />
LILY<br />
LIME<br />
LOAM<br />
MOLE<br />
Each four-letter word can be found in a diamond shape in the grid (one has already be<br />
entered, as an example), and every word will start at the top of the diamond and flow<br />
clockwise or anticlockwise direction.<br />
MOSS<br />
PEAR<br />
PINK<br />
PLUM<br />
ROSE<br />
SLUG<br />
SOIL<br />
M<br />
O P S<br />
F M S L P<br />
P S K U R A E<br />
I G K L S Q A T L<br />
M X N U O Y L B E N I<br />
Spot E Vthe O Difference L G F I S F E M A N<br />
L Y B I Q K K D O N I<br />
U L B O S L R P I<br />
L D S M E O O<br />
S V L A S<br />
A P N<br />
W<br />
There are eight differences between these two pictures. Can you spot them?<br />
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE<br />
the Difference<br />
BEDS LIME<br />
There are eight differences between these two pictures. Can you spot them?<br />
e eight differences between these two pictures. Can you spot them?<br />
BULB LOAM<br />
PINK<br />
PLUM<br />
Answers on p30<br />
FORK<br />
LAWN<br />
LILY<br />
MOLE<br />
MOSS<br />
PEAR<br />
ROSE<br />
SLUG<br />
SOIL<br />
Answer:<br />
M<br />
O P S<br />
F M S L<br />
P S K U R<br />
26 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd<br />
I G K L S Q<br />
M X N U O Y L
* When you buy a frame for £18 or more. Excludes other offers. Assumes Free NHS eye test and NHS voucher subject to NHS guidelines. Ask for details.<br />
EYE NEWS<br />
Suffering from<br />
digital eye<br />
strain?<br />
Do you struggle with sore eyes, headaches,<br />
eye strain, dry or gritty eyes or blurred vision?<br />
Have you noticed this after using your pc or<br />
laptop at work or leisure, or after looking at a<br />
tablet or mobile?<br />
Regular eye tests are an essential part of maintaining<br />
your eye health and ensuring optimum vision and<br />
comfort. If you have any of these symptoms you may<br />
be experiencing digital eye strain. If you currently wear<br />
glasses you may benefit from ‘Anti fatigue’ (also known<br />
as ‘Relax’) lenses. These lenses can help your eyes if<br />
you spend hours on a mobile phone or tablet as near<br />
tasks involve extra effort from your eyes.<br />
If you wear glasses for reading ask about ‘Office’ (also<br />
known as ‘Occupational’) lenses. These have a longer<br />
working distance so that screens and near text are<br />
both in focus. These lenses are also good for other<br />
hobbies where you may need to see detail at arms<br />
length.<br />
Another option is a ‘Blue control’ filter on your lenses.<br />
Early research suggests that the shorter wavelength<br />
of blue light emitted by electronic devices can cause<br />
fatigue and eyestrain. This filter absorbs the blue<br />
light before it reaches the eye. You may also find that<br />
comfort eye drops recommended by your optician<br />
can also help to relieve dry or gritty eyes.<br />
Whatever you feel ensure that if you have any<br />
concerns regarding the health of your eyes or<br />
vision ask your optician.<br />
Helen Gilbert FBDO<br />
Dispensing Optician<br />
HARROLD HARROLDS OPTICIANS<br />
opticians & audiologists Your vision...Our care<br />
2 for 1<br />
Kids & Teens<br />
glasses<br />
Let us show you the difference...<br />
... Ask about office lenses<br />
Eye tests are free for kids<br />
Polarised prescription<br />
sunglasses<br />
£179<br />
Complete with single vision lenses. Ask for details.<br />
With glare reducing lenses designed specifically for night driving , UV protection, blue control lenses,<br />
photochromic lenses that darken when you drive and polarised lenses, our qualified opticians can advise<br />
you on the best eyewear for your lifestyle.<br />
For any advice please phone your local branch. We will be very happy to help.<br />
Our eye test has retinal photography as standard and the option of OCT. Book your eye test online today.<br />
3 Station Road <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> 85-87 Sycamore Road Amersham<br />
01753 886306 01494 721795<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrardscrosstogether.co.uk 27
Spot<br />
COMMUNITY<br />
the Difference<br />
NEWS<br />
s<br />
Will Power to<br />
support Rennie<br />
Grove Peace<br />
Hospice Care<br />
There are eight differences between these two pictures. Can you spot them?<br />
diamond shape in the grid (one has already been<br />
d will start at the top of the diamond and flow in either a<br />
M<br />
O P S<br />
F MRennie S L Grove P Peace Hospice Care has<br />
S Kannounced U R A the E return of its annual Make<br />
Your Will Month event this <strong>May</strong> and is<br />
K L encouraging S Q A TBuckinghamshire L<br />
residents<br />
U Oto Ythink L about B E their N Iaffairs, and whether<br />
G F their I Swishes F Eare Mclear.<br />
A N<br />
I QThe K charity’s K D annual O N Will-writing I event sees<br />
B O<br />
local<br />
S<br />
solicitors<br />
L R P<br />
offer<br />
I<br />
appointments for people<br />
to write or update their Will, free of charge.<br />
D SThe M participating E O O solicitors waive their basic<br />
Will-writing fee in return for a donation to<br />
S VRennie L AGrove S Peace. Participants are asked to<br />
Amake P Na suggested minimum donation of £175<br />
for a single Will, or £275 for a pair of mirror<br />
Wills. W<br />
Participating solicitors are located across<br />
Buckinghamshire with practices in High<br />
Wycombe, <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> and Beaconsfield<br />
LIME taking part. PINK<br />
income to cover a third of the total cost<br />
of running our services. This support is<br />
absolutely crucial to the charity so this Make<br />
Your Will Month we’re encouraging everybody<br />
to consider whether they could leave a gift in<br />
their Will to support a charity in the future.”<br />
Sue updated her Will through the Rennie<br />
Grove Peace Make Your Will Month scheme<br />
last year. She says: “My husband and I already<br />
had Wills but it’s a long time since we made<br />
them and we knew we wanted to bring them<br />
up to date. Our grandchildren have all been<br />
born in the time since we originally wrote our<br />
Wills. The whole process was so smooth. We<br />
made an appointment with a local solicitor and<br />
went in person to discuss our circumstances<br />
and requirements. The solicitor we worked<br />
with was wonderful – so approachable and<br />
knowledgeable. She didn’t just make simple<br />
changes, she really informed us about our<br />
options and gave us information on lots of<br />
things to consider that we hadn’t previously<br />
thought of. “<br />
LOAM Tracey Hancock, Director PLUMof Fundraising at<br />
Rennie Grove Hospice Care, says: “Taking part<br />
in our Make Your Will Month event is a great<br />
MOLE way to make sure you ROSE have made plans for<br />
your own affairs, while supporting vital hospice<br />
MOSS care for local people SLUG living with a life-limiting<br />
illness. In the last year, gifts that were left to<br />
PEAR Rennie Grove Peace SOIL in Wills generated enough<br />
Visit www.renniegrovepeace.org/mywm for full<br />
details, including participating solicitors, and to<br />
make your appointment today.<br />
Answer:<br />
M<br />
O P S<br />
F M S L P<br />
P S K U R A E Answer:<br />
I G K L S Q A T L<br />
M X N U O Y L B E N I<br />
E V O L G F I S F E M A N<br />
L Y B I Q K K D O N I<br />
U L B O S L R P I<br />
L D S M E O O<br />
S V L A S<br />
A P N<br />
W<br />
28 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd<br />
PUZZLE<br />
SOLUTIONS<br />
DIGGING FOR<br />
DIAMONDS<br />
SPOT THE<br />
DIFFERENCE
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@amershamtogether.co.uk 29
30 <strong>Gerrards</strong> <strong>Cross</strong> <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd