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GERRARDS CROSS<br />
<strong>Together</strong><br />
NEWS AND VIEWS<br />
Fostering - p20<br />
Mayors 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>Cross<strong>Together</strong>.co.uk<br />
Welfare of older people<br />
01753 917241<br />
EARLY SUMMER EDITION<br />
SAVE THE DATE<br />
Sunday 18th May<br />
For help or food donations<br />
office@onecantrust.org.uk<br />
Tel: 01494 512 277<br />
May/June 2024 Issue 4
KING CHARLES’<br />
PARTY IN THE PARK<br />
15 TH JUNE 2024<br />
West<br />
West<br />
Common<br />
Common<br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong><br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong><br />
Cross<br />
Cross<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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>.gov.uk<br />
clerk@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>.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 />
Maybe 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 2024<br />
Editorials: 20th June<br />
Advertisers: 21st June<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 />
Cross <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> Cross <strong>Together</strong> or its affiliates.<br />
t: 07786 735 711<br />
e: therese@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk<br />
w: gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk<br />
Want to be a Community<br />
Champion Sponsor?<br />
We are offering select advertising spots on<br />
<strong>Gerrards</strong> Cross <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> Cross,<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 2024<br />
Between 13 and 26 May, 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 />
May, 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> Cross <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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk 5
<strong>Gerrards</strong> Cross<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> Cross<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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk<br />
6 <strong>Gerrards</strong> Cross <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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk 7
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
Mayor’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 June 2024. 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 June 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> Cross 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 Mayor of <strong>Gerrards</strong><br />
Cross<br />
8 <strong>Gerrards</strong> Cross <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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> Cross <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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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 June 2024 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> Cross <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> Cross, 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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk & Ireland<br />
13
COMMUNITY NEWS<br />
GX Fun Run<br />
news update<br />
Join 1500 runners on Sunday 18th May<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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk<br />
Updates will be shortly posted on:<br />
www.gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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> Cross 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> Cross <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk 15
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We help our clients build<br />
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Our services will help you to:<br />
Evaluate what’s possible with your money<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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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> Cross <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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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> Cross <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
Special offer<br />
Celebrate this May and June with<br />
a glass of Fizz on arrival<br />
from Riwaz!<br />
QUOTE<br />
'<strong>Gerrards</strong> Cross <strong>Together</strong>'<br />
when booking.<br />
Celebrate Fathers Day on Sunday 16th June<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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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> Cross <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.co.uk 23
24 <strong>Gerrards</strong> Cross <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@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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> Cross <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> Cross 85-87 Sycamore Road Amersham<br />
01753 886306 01494 721795<br />
To advertise please call 07786 735 711 or email marketing@gerrards<strong>cross</strong>together.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 May 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 a<strong>cross</strong><br />
Buckinghamshire with practices in High<br />
Wycombe, <strong>Gerrards</strong> Cross 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> Cross <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> Cross <strong>Together</strong> part of Community <strong>Together</strong> Communications Ltd