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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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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 />

Registered in England and Wales No.09259743. Registered office address: 20-22 Wenlock Road, London, N1 7GU.<br />

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

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