Axis magazine September 2023 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally

September 2023

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO

LOCAL LIFE

STUDIO PLAN PAUSED New film studio on hold over business rates concern

THE FUTURE OF WARE

Referendum to be held on Neighbourhood Plan

A LIFE OF LUXURY

Exclusive apartments launched in Digswell OPEN SESAME

Enjoy Heritage Open Days and Open Studios this month

A FINE PLACE TO DINE

How Roni’s in Bishop’s Stortford has got it spot on

WELCOME

What’s inside this issue

05-15 y Briefing

Fire service says thank you to retiring investigation dog Reqs

16-17 y Shopping & business news

Highway Cycles expands with second store in Bishop’s Stortford

ABOUT AXIS

Axis magazine was founded in 2003 by two award-winning former local newspaper editors who still own and run the business today.

We are the independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters in and around eastern Hertfordshire and we aim to provide a concise, useful guide to local life.

Our editorial content is targeted towards readers’ interests, to maximise readership and gain the best exposure for our advertisers. The magazine is delivered to homes and businesses in selected areas and copies can also be picked up free from venues across the area.

CONTACT US

Axis Magazine, Lyric House, 6b St Andrew St, Hertford SG14 1JA 01992 500198

info@axispublications.co.uk axismagazine.co.uk

PUBLISHERS:

Aaron Gransby & Justine Woods

DIGITAL EDITION:

Read us online at axismagazine.co.uk or issuu.com (search axis magazine)

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33-39 y What’s on

We round up this month’s best events, films, arts and entertainment

40-43 y Food & drink

We visit Roni’s in Bishop’s Stortford and discover Four Rivers Coffee Co

22-23 y WEDDINGS: Forthcoming events and wedding fairs

27-32 y HOME IMPROVEMENTS: Support your specialist local businesses

Front cover images (clockwise from top)

Safe Haven by Bishop’s Stortford artist Ray Whyard showing at the Letchworth Open (p38); Four Rivers Coffee Co which has opened in Birch Green (p42); Ware is holding a referendum on its new Neighbourhood Plan this month (p8); Highway Cycles’ new store in Bishop’s Stortford, which has just opened its doors (p17).

Call us on 01992 500198 with card details to start a subscription or send a cheque made payable to Axis Publications Ltd to the address in the Contact Us section above.

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BRIEFING

Lights, camera, inaction: Sunset Studios paused

The owners of Hollywood’s Sunset Studios have paused work at the Waltham Cross site that has been earmarked for the brand’s expansion into the UK.

US firms Blackstone and Hudson Pacific first announced their plans for Sunset Waltham Cross Studios back in 2021, and Broxbourne Council approved their application for the 91-acre site alongside the A10 close to junction 25 of the M25 last summer.

According to the studios’ website, there are also plans to extend the original site, subject to planning permission, to include the former Cheshunt Country Club site on the other side of the New River, which would provide additional backlot space.

But while hoardings have been put up around the main site and enabling works including site

clearance have been carried out, construction has not yet begun. The original anticipated completion of the £700million project was expected to be the end of 2025. According to construction and film industry reports, while no formal announcement has been made, the project has been put on hold, with widespread speculation that a lack of cost clarity caused by uncertainty over proposed new business rate rises for the sector in the UK is largely to blame. Inflation in the UK construction industry is likely to also be adding to the picture along with the downtown in demand for studio space in the US being brought about by ongoing strikes by writers and actors.

When approached for further information Blackstone declined to comment.

Empty car parks used for car boot sales, with ice rink also a possibility

Bishop’s Stortford’s vacant Causeway and Charringtons car parks are to host car boot sales every Sunday from 3rd September for a trial three-month period. They could also host an ice rink this December, according to East Herts Council’s executive member for financial sustainability, Cllr Carl Brittain.

The local authority has been seeking ways in which the car parks could be utilised ahead of their redevelopment into shops, restaurants

and homes as part of its Old River Lane project.

A planning condition relating to the building of a new multi-storey car park at Northgate End by the previous Conservative-led administration required the open air parking to be closed.

But with the Old River Lane project not even through the planning process, there has been much criticism that the site has been left disused – until now, with Capital Car Boot Sales running the events.

Cllr Brittain said: “East Herts Council has decided not to charge a fee for using the space, given that the site has been vacant for some time. However, Capital Car Boot Sales will be responsible for traffic management and cleaning on-site.” The car parks were also used in August for cycle training sessions and Cllr Brittain said the council was considering other activities and events, including an ice rink during the festive season, that would make use of the space going forward.

Multi-storey car park discount scheme for local workers on hold for now

Meanwhile, East Herts Council says it needs more time to assess and refine a proposed scheme that would offer town centre workers reduced price parking at the new Northgate End multi-storey car park in Bishop’s Stortford.

Bishop’s Stortford BID had proposed a trial scheme, whereby 100 town centre workers could be given permits to park at Northgate

End for £3.50 a day instead of £5.20. It was also anticipated that the scheme would free up spaces in other town centre car parks that are currently used by workers for shoppers and visitors. But the new Green and Liberal Democrat-controlled administration says it needs more time to work on the detail. Cllr Tim Hoskin, the council’s executive

member for environmental sustainability, said: “Our intention is to make sure that the scheme aligns with the council’s sustainability goals and responds appropriately to our recent climate emergency declaration.”

BID manager Gina Thomas expressed disappointment at the delay saying parking issues in the town needed addressing urgently.

The top picture shows how the finished studios will look. Above left is the cleared site as it looks now behind the hoardings visible by the A10

Cllr Clive Brittain

Northgate End car park

LEONARD DESIGN ARCHITECTS

The cost of redeveloping Hertford Theatre continues to rise above the current budgets committed to the project by owners East Herts Council.

In order to get the project complete without an overspend that would risk other capital projects, the local authority is having to find imaginative ways, including rephasing timelines and seeking external funding, to bridge the gap.

The ongoing Growth and Legacy Project, as it is known, is set to bring significant improvements to the already popular town centre facility – including an expanded main auditorium that could attract touring productions, a new, bigger studio theatre and three cinema screens enabling the venue to show new release films for the first time. The cost, originally estimated at £13.5million in 2018, has risen steeply since the project was initially agreed with first design changes, and then inflation within the construction industry, pushing the current committed budget to £24.105million.

A challenging situation

In response to a question from Labour councillor Nahum Clements at a meeting of East Herts Council on 26th July, the new executive member for wellbeing Cllr Sarah Hopewell revealed that getting the project completed to budget was still proving challenging. She said the council was working with its consultants and contractor GPF Lewis to agree a final guaranteed price. This should be available by late September or early October. In the meantime, the council’s capital budgets have been ‘reprofiled’ to enable underspent contingency

from its Hartham Leisure Centre redevelopment to be transferred to the theatre.

Grounds works outside the building, including the construction of a cantilever walkway connecting the theatre to the grounds of Hertford Castle, that were originally part of the overall project are now due to be funded through a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

And officers are looking at both ways money could be saved on the fit out of the building, as well as potentially raised through both private and commercial sponsorship which could include initiatives such as inviting the public to sponsor a seat.

Hertford Town Council has been asked if it will support the project with a contribution towards the

fit-out of the studio theatre. And officers are considering the implications of phasing the opening of certain parts of the building to a later date.

Cllr Hopewell said the main priority for officers at this stage was getting the cinema screens and main theatre opened.

It’s hard to see how anyone could have predicted, back when the scheme was first imagined, the full impact of both Brexit and a then unforeseen global pandemic on the construction industry where labour and materials shortages have seen building costs soar.

What you can predict is that there will be some very audible sighs of relief and well-deserved rounds of applause when the curtain finally goes up on the new building, the timeline for which is below…

The latest timeline: cinema screens set to open in June

According to East Herts Council the latest estimate suggests the handover of the Hertford Theatre building from contractors will now be in May 2024.

The much anticipated new cinema screens, along with the community room, will open in June 2024.

The 550-seat main auditorium will open with a ‘skeleton programme’

from July, building to a full programme from the end of September when the 150-seat studio theatre also opens.

When it does reopen, Hertford Theatre will have a new name – already decided but yet to be revealed – that will reflect its new, wider offering.

The council says the new facility

will serve as ‘a hub for cinema, theatre and community activities spanning the entire East Herts district and beyond’.

New branding including updated signage is currently being worked on, with a new website likely to launch in March well ahead of the reopening, allowing the public to start booking tickets.

Having seen off a legal challenge, the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan’s expansion of the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) came into force on Tuesday 29th August.

It now means that all 32 London boroughs fall within the zone and anyone travelling from Hertfordshire into neighbouring boroughs such as Enfield or Barnet will have to pay a daily £12.50 charge if their vehicle does not meet the required emissions standards. To find out where the boundaries are and if your vehicle is compliant visit tfl.gov.uk.

Housebuilder Durkan has submitted plans to East Herts Council seeking permission to build 118 new homes on land to the west of Wadesmill Road in Bengeo. The development, a mix of one and two bedroom apartments and two, three, four and five bedroom houses, would be next to a first, completed, phase of housing, The Stiles, and on land allocated for residential development in East Herts Council’s District Plan identifying where new housing will be provided.

As well as new homes, the development would provide a mix of open public spaces, children’s play facilities and a network of pedestrian and cycle routes running through the site and beyond.

For more on the proposals visit bengeowadesmillroad.co.uk or to see the application and comment visit the planning section at the council’s website, eastherts.gov.uk.

ULEZ expansion is now in force

Bengeo homes plan submitted

Hertford Theatre: how budget challenges are being met to ensure the curtain rises next year

Signs are now up in Enfield

Building work is progressing ahead of the opening of the theatre in 2024

Residents urged to vote Yes in referendum on new Ware Neighbourhood Plan this month

Residents in Ware are being asked to take part in a referendum at the end of the month on the town’s new Neighbourhood Plan – a document that will help guide planning policy through to 2033. Over the past four years a group of volunteers who make up the Ware Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group have been consulting people who live and work in the town, and other stakeholders, to get their views on a wide range of issues. Their responses have been incorporated into the plan, which gives the community the power to influence the type, design, mix and location of new development. The result of their hard work, which has been supported by Ware Town Council, is the Ware Neighbourhood Plan, which was last month approved – and declared ‘excellent’ – by an independent examiner appointed by East Herts Council.

Now the next stage in the process is for the plan to be put to a referendum of Ware residents. If it is approved, it will help guide development within the town for the next decade, sitting alongside East Herts Council’s District Plan. The steering group are keen to get as a big a turnout as possible – and a yes vote – but they do stress that the plan is about the town as it currently is – and it does not

Vandalism issues cause church to close its doors outside services

The ‘difficult’ decision has been made to close Sawbridgeworth’s Great St Mary’s church outside of service times and when the building is unattended for the foreseeable future after what is described as an ongoing spate of low level abuse of, and damage to, the church facilities.

As well as being a place of worship, the church, built out of flintstone and mortar on a site believed to go back to the 11th century, is a notable historic building in the town’s landscape

Retirement flats approved for corner of Lea Wharf site

include the proposed development of up to 1,800 homes to the north and east of Ware, variously known as Ware North and Ware 2. Instead, this Neighbourhood Plan sets out planning policies that safeguard everything the community regards as special whilst also addressing the need for more housing and the realities of changing lifestyles and town centre usage.

Jan Stock, who has chaired the steering group, said: “We know that people are concerned about the proposed development to the north and east of the town, known locally as Ware 2. That development is driven by East Herts Council’s District Plan. The Neighbourhood Plan is not about Ware 2.

“Our consultation process clearly

showed that the people of Ware recognise that the town must change and develop in response to the needs and demands of modern life. However, they want to ensure the character of Ware, its culture and rich history is protected.

“Voting Yes for the Neighbourhood Plan gives the people of Ware a voice to influence adjacent planning decisions that might have significant implications for the town, such as air pollution, road safety and traffic congestion.”

When to vote

The referendum will take place on Thursday 28th September with polling stations open between 7am and 10pm. Polling cards are being delivered by post. View the plan at wareneighbourhoodplan.com.

Churchill Retirement Living can move ahead with plans to build a retirement development on the corner of Railway Street and Bircherley Street in Hertford after its appeal against East Herts Council’s failure to determine its planning application within the target timeframe was allowed, and planning permission granted. The company is set to build 34 one and two bedroom retirement apartments and communal facilities along with three retail units on land close to the bus station that had originally formed part of Chase New Homes’ near complete Lea Wharf development.

The site had been earmarked for an 86-bedroom hotel for Premier Inn for which planning permission was granted, but the chain owners Whitbread withdrew from the scheme after the pandemic and at the time no similar potential occupier was identified. Ironically, according to the appeal decision documents, Whitbread have since said they still have an ongoing interest in the site for a Premier Inn, although the new plans look set to render it unavailable. The planning inspector also noted that Hertford now features in budget hotel operator Travelodge’s target expansion areas. Churchill submitted a planning application for its scheme back in November, exercising its right after 13 weeks to ask the Secretary of State to determine the application in the absence of a timely decision from East Herts. The local authority contested the appeal saying it would have refused the application.

with a Friends group, separate from the worshipping community, who fundraise to help look after the ancient building.

Inside there are memorials and monumental brasses to many

famous local families including the Chaunceys, Jocelyns, Wisemans and Leventhorpes.

The vicar, Father Simon Vivian, said that he hoped that the move would not need to be permanent.

Having considered the details of the application along with East Herts’ concerns, the inspector concluded that the appeal should be allowed and planning consent was granted on 18th August.

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Save our ticket offices: Local campaigners make their voices heard

Protests have been continuing locally against plans to close ticket offices at rail stations which were announced at the beginning of July by the Rail Delivery Group, which represents mainline train companies.

A public consultation that was set to end in July was extended to 1st September in the wake of widespread opposition to the plans. Amongst the events was an evening protest at Hertford East station on Wednesday 16th August, at which residents were joined by local Labour and Green councillors and members of the Unison trade union. It followed a similar demonstration at Hertford North station in the morning.

Josh Dean is one of the new intake of Labour councillors on Hertford Town Council and helped organise the Hertford East demonstration. He said: “We’re deeply concerned about the impact these closures will have on our community. Our

ticket offices and the wonderful staff who work in them provide a vital service to travellers in Hertford, ensuring that our stations are accessible and safe.

“Trade unions and disability groups have rightly pointed out that it’s our elderly, disabled and vulnerable residents who will suffer the most under current plans. These local services must be protected.”

Hertford Green Party councillor

Carl Brittain said: “Even thinking about closing station ticket

offices is madness and yet another short-sighted decision by rail companies that aren’t focused on what’s important – ensuring that trains are convenient, affordable and safe.

“Being able to speak to a member of staff is vital for many rail passengers, particularly those with disabilities, limited mobility and when travelling with children.”

The campaigners collected signatures for a petition that is being sent to Transport Secretary Mark Harper opposing the closures.

Coming to a doorstep near you... Lewis Cocking selected as Conservative Parliamentary candidate for Broxbourne

The seat has been held since 2005 by the party’s Sir Charles Walker who has announced his decision to retire at the next election.

Mr Cocking, who is also currently the deputy police and crime commissioner for Hertfordshire, was formally selected on Sunday 17th July following a vigorous process involving just under 100 candidates.

Having grown up locally and already having a high profile in the local area will undoubtedly have made him a popular choice for the local association members.

Journey times set to improve as upgraded section of A602 is opened

The leader of Broxbourne Council, Lewis Cocking, has been selected by Broxbourne Conservative Association as their candidate to fight the seat at the next general election.

The chairman of Broxbourne Conservative Association, Paul Mason, said: “Lewis will make an excellent Parliamentary candidate and great Member of Parliament, if elected.

“Broxbourne has a strong record in sending outstanding Conservative

constituency MPs to Parliament. I am sure Lewis will maintain that tradition.”

Mr Cocking said: “I am honoured to be selected in the place where I grew up and am proud to call my home.

“It would be a huge privilege to be Broxbourne’s Member of Parliament.

“For me the campaign starts now and I will work tirelessly between now and the last vote being cast at the next general election. I intend to knock on every door in the constituency and speak to as many constituents as I can!”

The last General Election, called by the then Prime Minister Boris Johnson, was in December 2019. The next is due by January 2025 although could potentially be held sometime next year should current PM Rishi Sunak choose to call it earlier.

The newly upgraded section of the A602 between Watton-at-Stone and Tonwell opened to traffic in August.

The new section of road, which replaces the previous A602 carriageway, brings the important link between the A1M at Stevenage and the A10 at Ware up to modern highway standards, reducing delays and improving journey times.

The new section of road has been realigned to smooth out sharp bends, improve visibility and create right-turn lanes at junctions to reduce delays caused by vehicles turning off the road.

A new bridge has also been constructed at the Sacombe Pound junction with a cycleway to allow cyclists and pedestrians to cross safely under the A602. This was the final stage of improvements on the A602 between Stevenage and Ware following previously completed works to improve the roundabouts at the A119 and A10 junctions, and the junctions with Anchor Lane, Westmill Road and Hertford Road.

The improvements have been funded by a £20million Local Growth Fund investment from Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership and funding from Hertfordshire County Council and delivered by construction contractor Tilbury Douglas. For more information visit hertfordshire.gov.uk/a602.

Cllr Richard Roberts opens the new section of road flanked by representatives of Tilbury Douglas and Hertfordshire LEP

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Fire dog Reqs to enjoy a well-earned retirement

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service waved goodbye to Reqs, Britain’s longest-serving fire investigation dog, as he retired from service at the end of July. His invaluable work, which involves using his impeccable sense of smell to detect accelerants like petrol at the scenes of fires in Hertfordshire and the wider eastern and south-eastern regions, had seen him attend around 500 incidents since joining the team in 2012 as a one-year-old. Together with fire investigators including his handler, Watch Commander Nikki Harvey, Reqs has provided crucial evidence in high-profile investigations, including for arson and murder, resulting in over 250 years of imprisonment for convicted offenders.

Speaking just before his retirement, Nikki said: “We are called to the scene of any serious fire that crews believe to be deliberate or suspicious, or where the cause is not immediately known, especially if there has been a fatality.

“Reqs gets involved as soon as it is safe. He gets to work using his best tool – his nose – to locate any potential accelerants like petrol that might have been used to

Skatepark opening marks latest stage of Castle Park scheme

Professional skaters Nick Remon and Alfie Mills headlined a skate jam to mark the official opening in Bishop’s Stortford of Castle Park’s new skatepark by the Mayor of Bishop’s Stortford, Cllr Richard Townsend, on Friday 18th August.

Residents of all ages enjoyed an entertaining afternoon of action-packed displays along with free practical workshops and competitions for budding skaters, bikers and scooter riders.

The new skatepark is one part of redevelopment works at Castle Park which are being funded by a £2.5million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery Community

Fund, together with contributions from East Herts and Bishop’s Stortford Town councils. The full park improvements are on track to be completed by September 2024. They include a new community space, the Markwell Studio; and a new café and terrace and public toilets with an accessible Changing Places facility. There will also be conservation work carried out to the remains of the castle on the mound, as well as improved access, landscaping and lighting, and new footpaths and bridge links over the River Stort to improve connectivity between Castle Park, Sworders Field and Castle Gardens.

deliberately start a fire.

“That’s when the human fire investigators like myself can take a closer look while Reqs enjoys a reward – his favourite tennis ball!” Reqs’s many noteworthy achievements include investigating an explosion and fire at a block of flats where one person had lost their life. Initial suggestions were that it might have been a gas explosion, but Reqs and another

dog located traces of petrol in very small quantities which electronic equipment had failed to register, proving that the fire had been deliberately started and changing the course of the investigation. Together with protégé Loki who succeeds him in the role, Reqs has amassed 10,000 followers on social media. Reqs will remain with Nikki as a pet and is likely to be seen alongside Loki at events.

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JULIE MARSON MP FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD

Ware Post Office reopening is a highlight of a busy summer

As the summer holidays draw to a close, I want to give a brief overview of what has been a really busy few months for Hertford and Stortford.

New Ware Post Office

My campaign to save Ware High Street’s Post Office was a real highlight. The community really came together to help and I thank everyone who was so enthusiastically involved. I reopened the store a few weeks ago – it was fantastic to see it up and running again and to celebrate its return with so many people for whom its services are a lifeline. We have had a Post Office in Ware since 1659 and I am determined it will now stay that way for years to come!

Exciting steps forward in health

Earlier this summer, I announced we are getting a new Princess Alexandra Hospital! I worked really hard to secure this with my constituency neighbour Robert Halfon MP and am delighted to see the plans coming together now. Alongside the new Community Diagnostics Centre at Herts & Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford I helped deliver, patient outcomes and healthcare in our area will re-

ally transform. I am excited to see local people reap the benefits and will be sure to share more updates on them as soon as I can.

On the case on the trains Trains remain an important issue for commuter areas like ours and I continue to push Greater Anglia to improve their services. The Stansted Express now mostly operates with 12-carriage trains rather than eight as a result. On Bishop’s Stortford’s branches like Cambridge/Cambridge North and Stansted Airport, we now have 22 trains that run during the morning peak alone too. There has also been no reduction to services through Hertford East. Though this is great progress I remain on the case. If problems continue to affect you in the coming weeks and months, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Thank you to everyone who shared their response to the public consultation on the closure of train ticket offices across Hertford and Stortford with me. I certainly share some of these concerns, especially when it comes to the elderly and most vulnerable in our community. It is only right that people had their say and I await the survey’s

final results with interest.

My next jobs fair

I am holding another jobs fair, this year in Bishop’s Stortford! Lots of local businesses and organisations will be there to offer advice and talk to people about the opportunities out there. I held a similar event in Ware last year and it was a real success. There will be something for everyone on the day – Friday 15th September from 10am to 2pm at Grange Paddocks Leisure Centre. There is no need to register, the event is free to attend and open to all. I look forward to meeting as many people as possible there.

Meeting amazing people

I was lucky to visit some amazing people and places in the local area recently. From Sawbridgeworth Cricket Club to our local NFU in Wareside and GSK in Ware. In Hertford, I visited the Corn Exchange, Hertford Theatre and representatives from Hertford Food Bank again to discuss local needs and issues and how my office can help. I deal with hundreds of emails and cases from constituents all the time and my work to help them remains my top priority. If you need assistance please do not hesitate to get in touch at julie.marson.mp@parliament.uk.

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Julie at the opening of Ware’s new Post Office; meeting with the NFU in Wareside (above left) and at GSK in Ware

How to save up to £720 a year by tackling food waste

Households could save up to £720 a year just by reducing the amount of food they waste, according to East Herts Council. The local authority is one of a number in Hertfordshire who, working together as part of the WasteAware partnership, are encouraging residents to develop better habits by following a Four Steps To Save challenge, part of its Worth Saving campaign. The campaign website features a variety of tips and guidance on how to plan, shop, store and eat more cost-effectively. And anyone signing up to the Herts Food Waste Challenge five-week newsletter and taking part in two quick surveys could win a meal out and a cooking experience with a local, professional chef.

The campaign follows a study in 2020 by the Hertfordshire Waste Partnership which showed that around 24% of the rubbish in Hertfordshire’s refuse bins was

made up of food that could have been eaten.

Councillor Tim Hoskin, Executive Member for Environmental Sustainability at East Herts Council, said: “Household budgets are being stretched by the rising costs of living, including the increasing cost of food. This means it’s more important than ever to reduce the food we throw away. Reducing your food waste is a really simple, cost-saving way to live more sustainably and help cut greenhouse gas emissions.” Throwing away food that could have been eaten has a huge impact on the environment, and is a waste of all of the land, fertiliser, transport, water and more needed to grow the food.

Wasted edible food also generates around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The campaign is run by WasteAware, the partnership of county, district and borough councils working together to re-

duce, reuse and recycle Hertfordshire’s waste.

Enter the prize draw

To find out more and enter the prize draw, visit wasteaware.org. uk/worthsaving and sign up to

the #WorthSaving challenge to receive weekly tips and guidance on how to reduce food waste over the course of five weeks. Complete the survey before and after the challenge to enter the prize draw.

The campaign aims to reduce food waste and save residents money

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We provide you with access to resources such as market information, business guides, templates and tools. Our team is on hand to help you identify the most appropriate ones for your business and when required can support you with using tools such as GrantFinder.

7. Help to develop and refine your strategy

We work with you to develop a robust business plan and strategy, enabling you to set and achieve

What our clients say:

Local businesses can get expert advice from Hertfordshire Growth Hub realistic growth targets.

8. Local opportunities and knowledge

Our experienced team has a deep understanding of the local business environment and can provide you with tailored support and advice that takes account of local factors, challenges and opportunities.

9. Assistance to improve your business efficiency

We provide guidance and information to help improve operational efficiency through the adoption of technology in your business and by improving energy efficiency through the introduc-

tion of sustainable practices.

10. Time to focus on what you do best

We do the research on what Government support is available for your business, leaving you with more time to run your business.

How to get in touch

All the services of the Growth Hub are fully funded, meaning that there is no cost to you. To find out more email enquiries@hertsgrowthhub.com or speak to one of our Business Information Advisers by calling us on 01707 952777 (9-5, MonFri). Visit our website hertsgrowthhub.com.

“It’s not just the one-to-one coaching, which is really great, but whatever the particular problem is in my business at that moment in time, and over the years it’s been many different types of problems, there’s always been a solution, or help to find a solution available for it.”

Luke

Desmond, CEO and Founder of Crisp Accountancy

“Without the support of the Hertfordshire Growth Hub we might still be sat where we were in the pandemic – the support gave a lot of confidence to know, ‘right, this is how I actually lead this forward’.”

Jennifer Page, Founder of Affinity Academy

Highway Cycles opens new store in Bishop’s Stortford

Bike store Highway Cycles has opened a second branch, in Bishop’s Stortford.

The Hertford-based business, which has been operating since 1978, had been on the lookout for a suitable site in the town and last month opened in the premises in Potter Street that were most recently home to Paperchase. Highway has grown to become Hertfordshire’s largest independent bike store, having successfully expanded into larger premises in Hartham Lane in Hertford in recent years.

The new Bishop’s Stortford store will have a broad range of bikes, mainly focused on electric and road bikes but with a selection of hybrid and mountain bikes too. It will also offer similar services to Hertford, with bike repair and maintenance by qualified mechanics, as well as the latest accessories for all levels of rider.

General manager Adam Simmons said: “Highway Cycles has been active in the Bishop’s Stortford community for many years, with our pop-up retail display at the Jackson Square shopping centre showcasing our range of bikes to the people of Bishop’s Stortford and also sponsoring local Birchwood High School student William Gilbank.

“We are working really hard to get engaged with the local cycling community, just as we have in Hertford.”

The new shop has already been welcomed by Bishop’s Stortford Cycling Club and Cycle Stortford. Highway Cycles in Bishop’s Stortford is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm and on Sunday from 10am to 4pm. The store is at 28 Potter Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UL. Call 01279 677020 or visit highwaycycles.co.uk.

New owner for healthfood shop Full of

Beans in Sawbridgeworth

Sawbridgeworth wholefood and healthfood shop Full of Beans has a new owner, long term customer Matt Kosin, who has taken over the Church Street business from its owner of the past 26 years, Trula Wheeler.

The shop has long been a town favourite – stocking a wide range of wholefoods, supplements, body care and beauty products. Before taking on the business Matt, whose most recent background is in medical purchasing, was already familiar with the shop, having been a regular customer dating back to childhood when his mum would take him in with her on the way home from school.

As owner he plans to build on its already strong reputation.

He is working with a number of local growers so that the shop’s organic fruit and vegetables are grown close to home – with colourful produce including runner beans, tomatoes, rainbow chard, leeks, apricots and raspberries arriving in store on the day that

they’re picked.

Outside are new chairs and tables where customers can enjoy freshly made speciality grade Fairtrade organic coffee along with cakes (again locally supplied), with vegan and wheat-free options available. Milk used in coffees has been changed from standard organic to organic, grass-fed Guernsey cows’ milk. This contains mostly the same type of protein as sheep, goat and human milk, and is reputedly more tolerable to people who might otherwise avoid dairy products.

It is also higher in heart-healthy Omega 3 fatty acids than some other organic milk – and tastes amazing in coffee!

There’s a range of plant based milks on offer too.

Other new product lines are regularly being introduced – you can keep up to date with the latest additions on the shop’s new Facebook page (Full of Beans).

Full of Beans is at 2 Church Street Sawbridgeworth CM21 9AB – call 01279 726002.

An object lesson in the realities of life...

libraries, friends, exchange drops and, occasionally, from an actual bookshop – and the other day she showed me one which clearly had a history.

The travels of a book

Kevin Brooks of Cannon Travel comes

to terms with an indisputable truth

According to Websters dictionary an ‘inanimate object’ is described as ‘showing no signs of life; lifeless’ and the examples given are a rock, a chair and a book. It is the last of these that caught my eye because although a book is inanimate, it exudes life. We have all read books that spark the imagination; heighten passion and create feelings of happiness or anger but there is another way a book can touch on life… through its travels. I have to admit to being a book snob. I always buy books but if they are fiction I do so via a Kindle while for non-fiction I buy hardbacks.

My wife, on the other hand, is much more pragmatic and picks up her books from charity shops,

It was probably about 15 years old and had a short inscription which referred to a village in Kent, but she particularly noticed it because not 24 hours earlier we had driven through that very village. Also, tucked inside the back cover there was a compliment slip from a hotel in Cairo which made me wonder: “Where had this book been in its 15 years of life?”

Most of us take a book away on holiday and if, like my wife, you pass it on in some way, who knows where it might travel to and what stories it could tell? In my imagination this book has been to Spain, the Greek Islands, Turkey, on a short break to Jersey, a long haul trip to Australia and even a clandestine weekend in Brighton… why not, it’s not going to tell!

A life well-travelled

However, this preamble is just an intro into a much-prized inanimate object which has been a close companion of my wife’s for a long, long time. She and I have been together for close on 30 years and this object has been with her for much longer than that and has travelled with her far more than I have. It has been to Vietnam which, incidentally, is a fantastic place

to visit – sailing around Ha Long Bay is a match for any holiday highlight.

It has enjoyed guided tours of Paris, Berlin and Barcelona and, unforgettably, the Sistine Chapel, and it has sat on beaches in pretty much every country surrounding the Mediterranean.

It has been to many of the Caribbean islands, seen the wildlife in the Galapagos and even been rescued from a remote island in the Seychelles!

It has been to an elephant sanctuary in Sri Lanka and watched grisly bears in western Canada as well as touring the Golden Triangle in India, including the Taj Mahal of course.

It has had relaxing train journeys on the Orient Express and the Blue Train in South Africa and even flown in a very small plane over the Amazon rainforest.

The missing bag

The object I’m talking about is an old, scruffy and uninteresting bag and even the colour is a boring brown.

It is a cross between a rucksack and a duffle bag without any pockets – just an empty void which swallows everything my wife throws in.

If you saw us carrying it you wouldn’t look and think ‘I want one of those’.

Even its mother would struggle to love it, and yet it has seen the world like no other bag except for one holiday it missed – the best holiday we have ever had! I have written before in Axis

about Botswana and it was undoubtedly a fantastic holiday, not least because of all the wild animals we saw, some of which we were unbelievably close to. However, as we flew from Jo’burg up to Victoria Falls my wife suddenly realised that for some obscure reason she had not brought the bag.

It was at this stage that I understood I had to think differently about inanimate objects because when she realised her mistake, she felt guilty about it.

I also realised that the bag was more important that I was!

A bag that has travelled the world... except for Botswana

www.classicmobility.org.uk

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Skin by Dr Caroline – your local experts in skin

Visit Skin by Dr Caroline, an advanced skin and aesthetics clinic based in the lovely village of Brookmans Park. The advanced skin therapists, alongside clinic owner Dr Caroline, are pleased to offer injectable treatments to support collagen synthesis, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, add volume and help you feel confident and look your best.

Skin Boosters (SeventyHyal and Profhilo) from £250 per session

Anti-wrinkle injections* from £230 for 1 area, and dermal fillers from £280/ml*

Take first step to a new you with Akasha’s Reformer Pilates course

Flash sale offer for four-week beginners course in Ware for just £54 starting this month

Now the children have gone back to school September is the perfect time to try something new for yourself and Akasha Wellness is about to run a four-week beginners Reformer Pilates course that is an ideal first step to a strong, toned, leaner you.

Akasha’s studio in Sucklings Yard, Ware is a calming and inspiring place in a quiet courtyard just a few yards from Ware High Street and is a perfect venue for Akasha, which translates as “a space in which to shine”.

The four-week beginners course starts on Tuesday 19th September at 5.15pm or Wednesday 20th September at 10.30am and will help you strengthen your body, improve your fitness and focus your mind.

Akasha are currently offering a flash sale on the course too – book now and pay just £54 for the whole course!

Reformer Pilates has been proven for decades to have a unique ability to stretch, strengthen and align the body.

Like mat Pilates, it engages and strengthens your core, waist and

lower back muscles, helping improve posture and prevent injury.

But its Reformer beds also deliver an innovative and highly effective full body workout designed to give you a slimmer figure and lean, toned muscles, dramatically accelerating the changes you want in your body.

Akasha is the brainchild of two local entrepreneurs who left corporate careers to kick-start their venture. Jo Webster from Hertford and Nuala Barrett from Albury have been friends since they met at university and opened their first studio at Wickham Hall in Bishop’s Stortford eight years ago, followed by Ware in 2019.

Akasha has a team of experienced instructors and a wide range of classes to choose from over six days a week. They offer classes in yoga and Pilates to suit all levels of fitness and experience, as well as one-to-one sessions if you want a custom-designed workout based on specific needs and goals. To find out more or book a class visit akashawellness.co.uk or give the studio a call on 01279 757633.

Private GP moves across Hertford to new premises

If long NHS waits have made you consider seeing a private GP, but you had thought it might be too expensive, then think again.

Dr Katie Parkinson, who first set up her own private GP practice in The Wash, Hertford last year, has moved to new premises across town and is able to offer a 15-minute appointment for £45. At her new surgery, which is based in the former police station building in Castle Street, you can often get seen within hours of phoning up or booking an appointment online.

New name

She has renamed her business GP Care Now and the surgery offers a pay as you go service to get you seen by a GP both quickly and cost-effectively.

Katie, who has been a qualified

GP since 1994, has worked in and around the Hertford area since 2012.

She said: “I’m really excited that we are now opening the surgery, and we expect it to be a really popular service due to the NHS’s stretched resources and lengthy wait times for initial appointments with many doctors in the area.”

There is no monthly fee or need to sign up in advance to use the service, and patients will pay only for the service they use, such as an appointment or blood test.

Katie added: “We know first-hand that patients are struggling to get an appointment with their GP in Hertford so this is a way for them to get seen quickly and efficiently.” For more details or to book an appointment, call 0333 772 0722 or visit gpcarenow.com.

Akasha founders Nuala Barrett and Jo Webster

Dr Katie Parkinson has moved to new premises in Castle Street

You and your family can be seen quickly at GP Care Now

Chapter 79 prepares to host next wedding ring event

Wedding ring specialist Chapter 79 in Hertford will be holding its next in-store wedding ring event on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th October, during which a 15 per cent discount is offered on all wedding ring orders placed. Chapter 79 have helped hundreds of couples choose the perfect rings with which to start a new chapter in their lives.

They have extensive collections featuring many different styles and designs to choose from, including diamond-set bands, shaped rings to fit any engagement ring and rings made with contemporary materials such as carbon fibre, tantalum, titanium and stainless steel. Among premium brands offered is Furrer Jacot, a Swiss company which has been working to the highest standards since 1858. Each individual ring from Furrer Jacot is handcrafted in Schaffhausen, working to a customer’s individual preferences. Nearly everything is possible with this wedding ring brand – you can set diamonds in

your ring, choose mixed metal pattern designs or take inspiration from Furrer Jacot’s own Magique collection of beautiful and original designs. Other benefits offered by

Chapter 79 include a free design service for bespoke wedding rings and a free clean and refinish of your engagement ring before the big day.

You will find Chapter 79 at 15 Market Place, Hertford SG14 1DQ. Call 01992 534555 or visit chapter79.co.uk for more information.

East Hertfordshire Wedding Fair heads list of forthcoming shows

Visit warepriory.co.uk for more information about weddings at the Priory.

EAST HERTFORDSHIRE

WEDDING FAIR

SUNDAY 15th OCtOBER

Historic Ware Priory will host the East Hertfordshire Wedding Fair on Sunday 15th October, featuring businesses from around East Herts showcasing how they can help create your perfect wedding. The fair runs from 11am to 3pm

and includes two fashion shows, showing some of the latest bridal gowns and bridesmaids outfits, at 12.30 and 2pm in the picturesque

Priory Hall complete with its stunning stained glass windows. You will also have the chance to look around the venue to see how it could suit your wedding. Admission and parking are free.

TEWIN

BURY FARM HOTEL WEDDING SHOW

SUNDAY 8th OCtOBER

The choice of venues hidden in the Hertfordshire countryside at Tewin Bury Farm near Welwyn can cater for everything from intimate ceremonies with up to 40 guests to grand, lavish receptions of 500. All have private garden, ceremony and reception rooms offering the feeling of exclusivity. At this wedding show you can view the venue and meet a range of quality suppliers as well as take advantage of special offers available on the day. Admission is free and the show runs from 11am to 3pm. Pre-register online at mainweddingsandevents.co.uk.

THE LUXURY WEDDING FAIR AT HATFIELD HOUSE

SUNDAY 22ND OCtOBER

This wedding fair is held in the historic Old Palace and contemporary

Riding School at Hatfield House. This unique and long-running fair features up to 60 leading wedding professionals from Hertfordshire and beyond showcasing a wide range of products and services. Part of the Old Palace will be decorated and dressed for a wedding so you can see how it could look for your event. There are fashion shows at 12.30pm and 2pm featuring the very latest bridal and couture gowns.

Knowledgeable staff from Hatfield House Hospitality will be available to discuss your wedding ideas and to offer tips and advice.

The courtyard shops, galleries and restaurant will be open for you to browse as well.

The fair is open from 11am to 3pm. Admission and car parking are free and entry is via Hatfield Park visitors car park, Georges Gate, Church Lane, Hatfield AL9 5HX.

For more details visit wedding-exhibitions-uk.co.uk.

View these luxury apartments at Caddington House in Digswell

Caddington House, an exclusive collection of nine luxury apartments in the historic village of Digswell, launches this month. Combining contemporary luxury with quintessential charm, Caddington House offers refined living in elegant surroundings that are just a five-minute walk from Welwyn North station – which is just 30 minutes from London. Cuffley-based Rival Developments have worked with top class designers and craftspeople, and used the finest materials, to create Caddington House’s apartments. Each has two double bedrooms and two bathrooms with walk-in showers and deep soaking tubs.

The expansive open plan living spaces each have great natural light and feature impressive, well-equipped luxury kitchens and separate utility rooms. Bi-folding doors and patios bring the outside in throughout the

bedrooms and living areas. The communal and outside spaces give the impression of understated luxury as soon as you approach the entrance gates, with landscaped gardens to be enjoyed alongside private patios and balconies. Digswell village, which sits between Hertford and Welwyn Garden City, has a rich history dating back to 1086 and offers rural tranquillity together with easy access to both local market towns and the city. The apartments will be ready to move into this December.

Launch weekend

To see Caddington House for yourself, get in touch with selling agents Xander Homes to book a viewing, either at the launch weekend from Friday 8th to Sunday 10th September, or after. Email sales@xanderhomes.co.uk or call 0203 751 5742.

Walkern welcomes a new development of affordable homes

Residents are settling into their affordable homes at Midsummer Vale in Walkern, a new 38-home development completed by East Herts Council and housing association Peabody.

Thirty of the homes are being rented at an affordable rate to local people on the council’s housing register and eight have been bought on a shared ownership basis.

The development, which is off Froghall Lane, is the largest supply of affordable homes to buy or rent in the village for some time.

The one, two and three-bedroom homes are suitable for households of different sizes and are within walking distance of Walkern’s primary school, shops, pubs and GP surgery.

been a pleasure to visit this attractive and well-located development. There is a pressing need for more affordable housing in East Herts and it will be a top priority for our new joint administration [Greens and Liberal Democrats] over the next

four years to increase the supply of high quality homes which blend into their communities and enable residents to reach local facilities easily.”

Connaught Care is building a luxurious, state of the art care home for 80 residents which will include a bistro, cinema room, private dining room and health spa. The care home is expected to open in January 2025.

The St James’ Park development is being built by Countryside, which is now part of the Vistry Group.

Construction of a new on-site care home at St James’ Park in Bishop’s Stortford has begun.

Cllr Ben Crystall, leader of East Herts Council, said: “It’s

Cllr Crystall is pictured above officially opening Midsummer Vale flanked by Peabody’s Kirsty Pepper and Sean Kelly.

Care home construction begins at St James’ Park

Peter Cuffaro Estate Agents has set up a partnership with The Social Value Company to give its clients and other members of the local community access to a new online wellbeing hub which offers them a wide range of benefits.

Customers of Peter Cuffaro and other local residents can request a free log-in from Peter to access the website and make use of a diverse series of fitness workouts, meditation and yoga sessions and mental health support.

Highlights include more than 200 support articles on wellness topics from parenting to legal issues and personal finance, and access to the Les Mills fitness and yoga programme and videos. The platform also provides exclusive discounts from major retailers in the UK, helping members to manage their finances better.

The wellbeing hub has received overwhelming support from the local community already. Peter Cuffaro, Managing Director of the estate agents, said: “The partnership with The Social Value Company has been a game-changer for us. By offering

physical, mental and financial support through our branded wellness platform, we’ve solidified our position as a communitydriven business, earning the loyalty and trust of our customers. Beyond property transactions, we now actively contribute to the wellbeing of our community, fostering a positive impact that resonates far beyond just being an estate agency.”

Peter Cuffaro Estate Agents’ wellbeing hub is proof that community spirit and innovative thinking can bring positive change. Join the movement, embrace wellness and witness the magic of an empowered community!

Chris Morgan, founder of The Social Value Company, expressed delight at the collaboration. He said: “Creating this wellbeing app for Peter Cuffaro Estate Agents was a vision come true. We aim to empower businesses to make a difference, and it’s incredible to see the success Pete has achieved. If you want to empower your customers and community, and be known as a thoughtleading business, then offering your own wellbeing portal really does set you up for success.”

Chris Morgan and Peter Cuffaro are proud to have set up the Peter Cuffaro wellbeing hub

Start planning your new kitchen now... talk to Dobsons

The start of Autumn is a fantastic time to start thinking about a new kitchen, dare we say it, before Christmas comes around.

Dobsons’ showroom features Stoneham hand-built kitchen furniture in large room sets which give each one the feeling of a real kitchen and allow Dobsons to showcase a variety of colours and textures in both contemporary and traditional styles.

Their showroom also houses premium appliances brands such as Bora, Neff, Siemens, Miele, Quooker boiling water taps and the Kaelo integrated wine cooler as well as stunning worktops in Corian, Silestone, granite and wood. If you are considering a new kitchen, it’s important to allow plenty of time ahead of your ideal installation time to plan and design the space and to allow for furniture to be made, so it’s always best to start early. The first step is usually to book a showroom appointment to talk to Dobsons’ experienced team

of designers about your project and to get ideas and inspiration. Dobsons, a family business established in 1935, believe in putting their customers at the heart of everything they do and that’s why as part of the premium service they offer they take control of your entire project and co-ordinate every aspect, taking the stress and hassle

away from you. Dobsons are more than just a kitchen company; from their wide product offering they are able to provide services above and beyond other kitchen studios such as kitchen extensions, structural alterations and glazing such as bi-folding doors all under one roof.

Dobsons have also recently reno-

vated a large area of their Villeroy and Boch bathroom studio, with stunning new displays featuring the latest trends in luxury bathing.

Dobsons

128 Turners Hill, Cheshunt EN8 9BN 01992 623066

dobsonshome.com

Kitchens

Bathrooms

Windows & Doors

Glazed Extensions

Find inspiration and everything you need to create your dream bathroom at Hoddesdon Tile and Bathroom Centre

For inspiration and everything you need to create your dream bathroom head to Hoddesdon Tile and Bathroom Centre. The showroom is spread across two levels with room sets and a tile gallery and you will find a wide range of baths, showers, basins, toilets, taps, towel rails and more, providing inspiration and everything you need to create your perfect bathroom. A prompt delivery service is also available for larger items. Hoddesdon Tile and Bathroom Centre is based on a business estate with ample free parking right outside that leaves you more time to browse without feeling time-pressured. This family-run company has been helping both retail and trade customers with their home improvement projects for more than 30 years.

Come&see ournewbathroom displays

The showroom is open to both the public and trade from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

Hoddesdon Tile and Bathroom Centre

Units C2 & C3 Geddings Road, Hoddesdon EN11 0NT 01992 470146

hoddesdontileandbathroom.com

Family-run business offers a complete home improvement service

Herts and Essex Windows and Doors Ltd are a true family-run local business with more than 40 years of experience in the home improvements sector.

Based in Marsh Lane, Ware, they carry out work for both the home and commercial markets across Herts, Essex and London. They offer you a complete home improvement service from start to finish – catering for anything from designing your new front door to creating a fully bespoke extension to add space and value to your home.

All their products are fully tailor-made to your requirements and no job is too big or small. Their work includes the following:

l Windows and doors, in both aluminium and uPVC;

l Conservatories;

l Bi-fold doors;

l Splashbacks;

l Sealed units;

l Glass and glazing – including anything from balustrades to

mirrors and roof lanterns;

l Service work;

l Replacement roofs.

The business itself was founded in 2017 by husband and wife team Clive and Jayne Travers after many years of working for other companies, and their daughters work in it too as part of the team. Jayne said: “We really do listen to our clients and bring their visions to life. Our team’s professionalism, expertise and experience makes us the perfect company to guide you through your home improvement project.”

To find out what they can do for you, call 01920 449229 or visit their website at he-wd.co.uk for more information.

Herts and Essex Windows and Doors Ltd

5 Peerglow Centre, Marsh Lane, Ware SG12 9QL 01920 449229 info@he-wd.co.uk he-wd.co.uk

5 Peerglow Centre, Marsh Lane, Ware, Herts SG12 9QL 01920 449229 / 07907 247531 info@he-wd.co.uk www.he-wd.co.uk

THE TRUSTED LOCAL EXPERTS FOR ALL YOUR HOME & BUSINESS SECURITY NEEDS

For over 30 years we have been providing domestic and commercial customers with professional locksmith services. Our teams of highly trained engineers can advise, supply, install and maintain a vast range of products from leading manufacturers such as Yale, Union and ERA, giving you round the clock peace of mind.

• Door locks

• Key cutting

• Master key systems

• Lock repairs

• Keyholder services

• Vehicle security

• 24-hour emergency call-out 0800

How the latest technology will help to keep your home secure

Tindall Security are experts in making your home or commercial premises secure. The company, which was founded in 1932 and has been based in Hertford for over 30 years, offers tailored services to suit your individual preferences and needs. From simple domestic burglar alarms to more sophisticated commercial protection and security solutions, Tindall’s team of experts provide an efficient and trouble-free service.

Sadly, burglaries are a reality of modern life. Research has shown, however, that homes with a secure network of protection are less likely to be targeted. By installing an effective security system in your home, you will be ensuring 24/7 surveillance that will protect your property even when you are not at home.

Tindall Security supply, fit and maintain a range of domestic alarm systems to enable you to protect your home from

For everything from a safe for your home to van security for your tools, trust Barnet Lock

Tindall’s sister company, Barnet Lock & Security, specialises in security for the home and vehicle. Its staff can advise on the most appropriate locks to suit your wooden, metal or plastic windows and doors, together with sturdy locks, bolts and padlocks to secure your garage and shed. They can also supply and install an extensive range of secure, fire-resistant safes to suit both the domestic and commercial sectors. The range includes home safes, both electronic and digital, floor and wall, underfloor and deposit safes, key cabinets, lockers, medical cabinets, cash boxes, laptop safes and strongboxes. Again, expert advice will help you find the right safe for your requirements – and to ensure it meets the needs of your insurers. For tradespeople, having their van broken into and their tools and materials stolen can have a direct impact on their ability to work, and therefore on their

Tindall Security can help you protect your property and improve your peace of mind intruders. All come with self-monitoring apps which allow you to set and unset, receive alerts and view via your mobile phone or computer. Its in-house team can design and install the latest technology, ensuring that which is most important to you is protected 24/7, all year round.

earnings potential as well. Barnet Lock & Security has a specialist division that is dedicated to van security, offering a range of high-security van locks with anti-pick, anti-bump and anti-drill cylinders. Installation can be carried out at the business’s specialist van security facility in Hertford or its experts can come to you – whether you’re working on site, at your own premises or are at home.

Barnet Lock & Security 0800 433 7749 barnetlock.co.uk

Services include a diverse range of security networks, such as CCTV systems, Smart integration and door entry systems.

Tindall’s design team will work with you to find you the best possible solution; a professionally qualified team will install your alarm or security system; and a team of maintenance engineers

provide 24 hour, 365 days of the year support, with the best possible service. You can book a free, no obligation survey too.

Tindall Security

Unit 3 Mead Business Centre, Mead Lane, Hertford SG13 7BJ 0800 433 7748

tindallsecurity.co.uk

Discover the perfect fire or fireplace to enhance your home this season

With autumn nearly upon us, now is the time to update your fireplace for the season ahead. The Hertfordshire Fireplace Gallery has been helping customers for over 20 years with their fireplace needs, and has the most up-to-date modern designs encompassing the latest UK technology in fire realism. Their new media wall display (pictured) is the latest fireplace trend from the Flamerite E-FX range and features a built-in three-sided electric fire with space for a flat screen TV above with LED lighting. It has an amazingly realistic flame picture and is

extremely economical to run. Call into Hertfordshire Fireplace Gallery’s extensive showroom in Potters Bar to view this impressive fireplace and a full range of contemporary surrounds, electric and gas fires and stoves, with options to suit all budgets and tastes. Free local delivery and a full installation service by their team of Gas Safe and HETAS engineers are also available.

Hertfordshire Fireplace Gallery

9 Barnet Road, Potters Bar EN6 2QX 01707 657070 hertsfireplacegallery.co.uk

Landseer Picture Frames can help turn your house into your home

When decorating your house it is the personal, finishing touches that really turn it into your home. And putting your own stamp on the four walls that surround you is down to more than choosing the wallpaper or a paint colour. Putting up prints or pictures or framing your treasured photographs or memorabilia really helps to show not only your own history and interests but also your true personality. At the family-run Landseer Picture Frames in Ware they understand that, and have been offering a professional framing service for years for pictures of

all kinds as well as memorabilia ranging from medals and uniform badges to film posters, programmes and sports shirts. In addition to offering an expert framing service and advice, the shop also stocks a wide range of readymade frames and prints and an interesting selection of earthenware and stoneware sculptures that have been created by local artists.

Landseer Picture Frames

27b Baldock Street, Ware SG12 9DH 01920 486522 landseerpictureframes.com

At our Ware workshop and gallery we offer a professional framing service not just for canvases, prints and posters, but treasured memorabilia including medals, uniform badges, programmes and sports shirts We also stock a selection of readyframed prints and handmade earthenware and stoneware sculptures made by local artists

WHAT’S ON

THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO VISIT

Visit open day at new Hartham Leisure Centre

Hertford’s newly refurbished Hartham Leisure Centre will be holding an open day to mark its full reopening on Saturday 9th September.

Everyone is invited to join the team for a series of free activities between 10am and 4pm, includ-

ing sessions in the state of the art gym, PT taster sessions, group fitness classes in one of the two new studios, soft play sessions, pool inflatable sessions, football freestyler workshops with Rebez Mohammed and Stephen Grey, plus facepainting, balloon model-

ling and appearances from Spiderman and a princess with bookable storytimes for the younger ones. There is also a limited time membership offer available at the moment – see the advert on page six of this magazine for details.

Heritage Open Days festival offers a glimpse into our cultural past and present

The annual Heritage Open Days festival returns this year with more than 5,000 events around the country celebrating the nation’s history and heritage, and offering residents the opportunity to see inside many buildings that are normally closed to the public. The festival runs from Friday 8th to Sunday 17th September and a full list of events can be found online.

In Bishop’s Stortford

Local highlights include an exhibition by artist Ray Whyard at South Mill Arts in Bishop’s Stortford, with Ray (whose work is featured on the cover of this month’s Axis) also talking visitors through his art in person on Tuesday 19th September at 12.30pm.

The Victorian buildings of Bishop’s Stortford are the subject of a walking tour with Chris Connell on Sunday 17th September at 11am.

In Hertford

Hertford Castle holds its very own Heritage Day on Sunday 10th September from 12noon to 4pm. It will feature a variety of displays, demonstrations, stalls and performances on the castle lawn and a central arena with free entertainment including a falconry display. Other attractions include archery demonstrations, fire breathing and a medieval knight encampment.

DogFest at Knebworth for everything canine

There will also be an outdoor tour showcasing Hertford Castle’s amazing history from William the Conqueror to the present day, led by the Friends of Hertford Castle. The tour will take place on Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th September from 6.30 to 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 per person with proceeds going to the Mayor of Hertford’s charity appeal fund. Buy online at hertford.gov.uk/ events or from the Town and Tourist Information Centre in The Wash. The tour is called Within These Walls.

In Hoddesdon

In Hoddesdon, the town’s Quaker

Meeting House and Peace Cottage Community Hub in Lord Street will be open on Saturday 9th September from 12noon to 4pm.

In Ware

There are brass rubbing events at Ware Museum (9th, 10th, 16th and 17th) and children’s activities at Place House on Sunday 10th, while Scott’s Grotto, that remarkable little jewel of a venue hidden away in residential Scotts Road, will be open from 2-5pm on Sunday 10th September.

Find out more

For full details of all the events, visit heritageopendays.org.uk.

DogFest, the dog-friendly weekend festival, is back at Knebworth House on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September.

Billed as “the ultimate dog’s day out”, it features a variety of havea-go activities for you and your pet, a fun dog show and a group dog walk around Knebworth Park. There are also dog displays, canine experts on hand for advice, stalls and festival food and drink. Dogs Trust is the event’s charity partner for the third year running and it will have its own Dogs Trust Village on site featuring a variety of attractions.

Admission is from 9.30am and tickets are £21.40 for adults and £13.91 for children aged 5-16. Under-5s and dogs go free. Book online at dog-fest.co.uk or through dogstrust.org.uk (if you book through this, 15% of the ticket price goes to the charity).

Hertford Castle holds its own Heritage Day on Sunday 10th September

Book now for Ladies’ Night event

Walking in Memory for St Clare Hospice

Helping Herts’ Charity Ladies’ Night is taking place in the fabulous kitchen showroom at Dobsons in Cheshunt on Thursday 14th September from 7 to 9.30pm.

The evening will feature fashion, wellbeing, pampering, Prosecco (obvs), shopping – and cake, with a series of experiences on the night including a pop-up shop run by pre-loved fashion boutique Mint of Hertford, beauty and relaxation treatments, skin care demonstrations, Tarot readings, a cupcake decorating tutorial as well as other shopping

stalls including accessories and candles.

Treatments and readings can be booked on the night.

Tickets for the evening are £15 and can be booked at fundraising.helpingherts.com. The ticket price includes Prosecco, nibbles and one raffle ticket each.

Dobsons is at 128 Turners Hill, Cheshunt EN8 9BN. Helping Herts is the official charity of Stort Valley Rotary Club and supports a wide range of charities across the county that help children.

St Clare Hospice is inviting you to remember your loved ones and celebrate their lives at its fifth annual 5k sponsored walk on Sunday 17th September. Walking in Memory is the hospice’s flagship fundraising event, with a 5k route that begins at the hospice in Hastingwood before taking in the countryside nearby and then returning for a barbecue. Entry is £15 per adult and £5 per child and includes a keepsake heart, barbecue food and a free St Clare t-shirt when you receive your first JustGiving donation. For more information, or to sign up, visit stclarehospice.org.uk or call 01279 773750. The event runs from 10am to 2pm with the walk setting off at 11am.

Films: Fry and Laurie reunite in classic ghost story

The Equalizer 3 (15)

Now showing

Since giving up life as a government assassin, Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) has struggled to reconcile the horrific things he has done in the past and finds a strange solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Finding himself surprisingly at home in southern Italy, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends’ protector by taking on the mafia.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 (12A)

Out on Friday 8th September

Another one back for a third outing, this follows a new adventure for the Portokalos family as they travel to a family reunion in Greece for a heartwarming and hilarious trip full of love and twists and turns.

Expend4bles (15)

Out on Friday 22nd September

Four, shall we say, ageing but apparently still elite mercenaries, played by Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture and Sylvester Stallone, are joined by a new generation of stars in The Expendables. The group are the world’s last line of defence and the team that gets called when all other options are off the table. But new team members with different styles and tactics are going to give the phrase ‘new blood’ a whole new meaning.

The Canterville Ghost (PG)

Out on Friday 22nd September

A vivid animation of Oscar Wilde’s classic children’s ghost story in which the ghost of Sir Simon Canterville (voiced by Stephen Fry) has been roaming his castle for centuries searching for a descendant who can release him by performing a brave deed.

The only problem is… he keeps scaring them away! Finally, a family move in who refuse to be startled and Sir Simon may have hope. But first he and brave Virginia (Emily Carey) must survive the Ghost Catcher (Miranda Hart) and The Reverend (Toby Jones) to set Sir Simon free. Hugh Laurie also stars, reuniting with Fry.

The Lesson (TBC)

Out on Friday 22nd September Liam, an aspiring young writer, accepts a tutoring position at the family estate of his idol, a renowned author, played by Richard E Grant. But Liam soon discovers that the family he has joined harbour dark secrets that ultimately threaten his own future as well as their own. As the lines between master and protégé blur, class, ambition and betrayal become a dangerous combination in this taut, noir thriller.

Ware resident Peter Laing is once again opening his garden in Hoe Lane to the public, on Sunday 24th September, to raise money for the National Gardens Scheme which is a major supporter of medical charities such as Macmillan and Marie Curie. Peter’s last event, in May, raised over £1,000. His plantsman’s garden features many unusual plants and has been lovingly created over 30 years. It’s at The Pines, 58 Hoe Lane, Ware SG12 9NZ and visitors may use nearby Hertford Rugby Club car park, also in Hoe Lane. The garden will be open from 2-5pm. For more details visit ngs.org.uk.

Open garden in Ware Museum open day

You can see behind the scenes at Hertford Museum on Saturday 9th September during a tour of its stores at the Seed Warehouse in The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PX. Meet the museum team and find out how they look after the vast collections. Admission £7 including refreshments. Booking essential at ticketsource.co.uk. Tours run at 10.30am and 11am.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

Sylvester Stallone in Expend4bles

Autumn highlights @

No Strings Attached! Age 18 years+

The Super Duper 70s Show

Thursday 12 October, 7.30pm

All seats £23

Arrival: The Hits of Abba

Friday 13 October, 7.30pm

All seats £26

Lost In Music One Night at The Disco

Saturday 14 October, 7.30pm

Standard £31, Spotlight Friends £27.90

The Best of Queen –The Break Free Tour

Sunday 15 October, 7.30pm

All seats £29.50

The Greatest Love Of All –A Tribute to Whitney Houston

Monday 16 October, 7.30pm

All seats £28.50

Doors and bar open 1 hour prior to event start. Why not enjoy a relaxing pre-show drink and a slice of our all-new authentic stone baked Italian pizza!

thespotlightvenue.com

01992 441946 (Monday-Friday 10am-2pm)

The Spotlight, High Street, Hoddesdon, Herts, EN11 8BE

Discover the history of Hertford in 50 Buildings

Hertford in 50 Buildings is a new book out this month which tells the story of the county town through an illustrated exploration of its architectural heritage across the centuries.

The latest in Amberley Publishing’s successful ‘In 50 Buildings’ series, it is written by Paul Rabbitts and Peter Jeffree. Paul is a chartered landscape architect and a former head of parks at Watford Borough Council who has written more than 20 books and Peter is a retired architect who now applies his professional eye and love of photography to documenting important historical buildings.

Theirs is a well-illustrated and accessible perspective highlighting 50 significant buildings and

Walks of reflection along the chalk streams of Hertfordshire

landmarks in Hertford. Each one has its place in the history of the town and the lives of its people. From pubs to Priory and churches to Corn Exchange, the buildings featured were used for a variety of purposes and designed in many contrasting styles. The book is published on Friday 15th September and costs £15.99. It is also available as an ebook.

Chalk Stream Reflections is a new book by Hertford resident Tim Hagyard. Tim spent three months in 2020 walking all the rivers and waterways of Hertfordshire – a total of about 350 miles. His book documents those walks and provides a valuable contribution to the important current debate about our rivers. Tim is a geographer, town planner and urban designer, as well as a practising Buddhist and long-distance walker. He believes that we see the world more fully and contemplate it as we walk, and that we must learn to reset our relationship with the natural world, for our own health, quality of life and to address critical climate and social justice issues. All these issues are addressed in his book, which also contains a foreword by Peter Ruffles, the legendary now former Hertford

local councillor and Honorary Alderman at Hertfordshire County Council.

Chalk Stream Reflections by Tim Hagyard is available through Amazon now as a paperback (£11.99) or ebook (£4.99).

HOWE GREEN HOUSE SCHOOL

WHOLE LOTTA SHAKIN’ – THE SHAKIN’ STEVENS STORY

Thursday 14th September, 7.30pm

Tickets: £27

THE MAKINGS OF A MURDERER!

Wednesday 27th September, 7.30pm

Tickets: £28

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

Sunday 1st October, 2pm,

Tickets: £25

Independent Co-ed Prep School for 4 to 11 years and Little Oaks Nursery School for 2 to 4 years

Meet the artists at Herts Open Studios

This year’s Herts Open Studios event takes place from Saturday 9th September until Sunday 1st October, offering an insight into the working practices of hundreds of local artists all around the county.

By picking up the open studios printed guide from local venues and supermarkets or checking the website of the event organisers Herts Visual Arts, you can see a listing of all the artists who

Visit the artistic community at Parndon Mill

Parndon Mill, the gallery and studios in Harlow, holds its own Open Studios event, over the weekend of Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September, between 10am and 5pm.

More than 20 studios in this idyllic setting will offer an insight into the creative process and an opportunity to meet the artists and makers who are based at the mill. In addition to the fine arts of drawing, painting and sculpture, you will be able to see craftwork including glassblowing, glass fusion, stained glass,

Festival faves Uncle Funk to wow Stortford

After a summer performing at a range of festivals around the country and a headline slot at a huge festival in Denmark, Uncle Funk’s Disco Inferno return to Bishop’s Stortford this September.

The popular funk band’s annual Christmas show at the URC Hall has had to be cancelled following the closure of that venue, so this appearance at South Mill Arts on Friday 29th September will

are taking part and the dates on which they will be opening up their studios to the public, as well as discover recommended local art trails you can follow.

Many artists will have artwork for sale and some also hold workshops and other special events. For full details visit hvaf.org.uk.

textiles, calligraphy, ceramics, stone letter carving, jewellerymaking and printing. You can even try your hand at some of the crafts.

The Gallery at Parndon Mill is also currently showing an exhibition called Hinterland, which combines letter carving in

stone by Simon Langsdale with drawings and paintings by Jane Bottery. Parndon Mill is in Parndon Mill Lane, off Elizabeth Way, Harlow CM20 2HP. Call 01279 426042 or visit parndonmill.co.uk for more information.

be their only public show in the town this year.

Fronted by local Simon Baker, Uncle Funk’s live show is an energetic romp through the

greatest hits of the disco era. The show starts at 8.30pm and tickets are £24.50 from southmillarts.co.uk or by calling 01279 710200.

Two Bishop’s Stortford artists have had their work selected to show at this year’s Letchworth Open, which is currently on at Broadway Gallery in the garden city until 7th October.

Ray Whyard and Nick Dittrich have both had pieces chosen for the exhibition, which allows artists to submit work of any subject, in any medium.

Ray’s work Safe Haven, which is also featured on the front cover of this magazine, is representative of his style, which is based on the natural world, but with bolder forms and an enhanced colour palette.

Nick’s work, Symphony, takes his tactile approach of stitching canvas together using raw and primed segments and adding emotive brushstrokes. For more information on the exhibition visit broadway-gallery.com.

Local artists at Letchworth Open Soundbites concerts to begin new series

A new series of Soundbites concerts begins this month at All Saints Church in Hertford. It is a lunchtime series of concerts every Wednesday during termtime between 27th September and the end of November. The first concert features Maltings Sinfonia Wind Ensemble playing works by Mozart, Gounod and Gordon Jacob. Admission is free with a retiring collection for the church. Light lunches are served from 12noon for the concert at 1pm. The church is in Queens Road, Hertford SG13 8AY. For more information visit allsaintshertford.org.

Symphony by Nick Dittrich

What’s on Guide Coming soon to Stevenage

Annual Jobs Fair

We’re making Stevenage Even Better by transforming and creating a 21st century new town for everyone.

Ritchie’s wine notes

By Ritchie Tough of Cavavin

How long does a bottle of wine last once opened?

This is one of the most practical everyday questions about wine. Of course, there may, possibly, be one or two of you to whom it is not relevant, as the idea of not finishing the bottle on the day it is opened will appear alien to you, but for the rest of you, here is what you need to know…

Most wines will last for at least three or four days after being opened although sparkling wines will lose their fizz after two days.

Light white, sweet white and rosé wine

These will last five to seven days in the fridge with a cork. Most light white and rosé wines will be drinkable for up to a week when stored in your refrigerator. You’ll notice the taste will change subtly after the first day, as the wine oxidizes.

Full-bodied white wine

I would say these should last three to five days in the fridge with a cork. Full-bodied white wines, like oaked Chardonnay and Viognier, tend to oxidize more quickly because they saw more oxygen during their pre-bottling ageing process. Be certain to always keep them corked and in the fridge. If you drink a lot of this type of wine, it’s a really good idea to invest in a wine pump. We have Le Creuset wine preserver at £19.95 on sale in Cavavin.

Red wine

Three to five days in a cool dark place with a cork. The more tannin and acidity the red wine has, the longer it tends to last after opening. So, a light red with very little tannin, such as Pinot Noir, won’t last open as long as a rich red like Cabernet Sauvignon. Some wines will even improve after the first day open.

FOOD & DRINK

Fine dining proves a successful concept for Roni’s

It’s 7pm on a Tuesday evening. It’s August. We’re in the middle of a cost of living crisis.

Yet Roni’s, a modern take on a fine dining restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford, is packed.

Two hours after arriving, after a hugely enjoyable meal, it was obvious why.

This locally-owned, independent restaurant, which has now been open for three years, is showing exactly how the concept of fine dining can be adapted in the modern day.

The food here is excellent. The surroundings are stylish without trying too hard to be overly opulent, the service when we visited was attentive and informed without being fussy and pushy, and the ambience on the evening was just right.

The layout of the restaurant has left more than enough room between tables so you don’t feel crowded. You could hear yourself talk despite the relaxed buzz and the calming background jazz music, but you couldn’t hear what everyone else was saying. And the menu itself – of modern European fare including a good number of fish and seafood dishes – is large enough to have something for everyone, with all dishes freshly cooked and using local ingredients and suppliers where possible.

Roni’s unashamedly sets out to offer a memorable fine dining experience, though one that is far from stuffy. The number of regulars throughout the week is testament to its success.

Wide-ranging menus

Examples from the a la carte menu include starters such as Parma ham halloumi (£13.50), crayfish cocktail (£12.50) and wild mushroom mille feuille (£11.50).

Mains include fillet beef fettuccine (£20), monkfish wrapped in Parma ham (£30), confit duck leg (£23) and saffron crab tagliatelle

(£21). The menu also features steaks and whole lobster dishes and there are separate gluten-free and vegan menus too. A set lunch menu is available from Tuesday to Saturday between 12noon and 3.30pm with two courses for £21.95 or three for £26.95, and there is a gluten-free set lunch menu.

Sunday roast

Roni’s also excels on Sundays with a choice of roasts including beef, chicken and lamb at prices from £19.50 to £23.95, all of which are served with potatoes roasted in garlic and herbs, seasonal vegetables, homemade Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Again, both gluten-free and vegan roasts are available. Sunday

roast is served between 12 and 5pm.

Wine tasting sessions

The restaurant has its own sommelier, Raffaele, who is happy to recommend wines with your meal. He also leads wine tasting sessions for a minimum of six people at a time which can be booked any time from Tuesday to Thursday. Each session lasts up to three hours. He has a lot to work with – the excellent wine list has around 60 wines on it. Cocktails are also popular and Roni’s shows its local credentials again when it comes to beer – it works with Bishop’s Stortford craft brewery The Belgian Brewer to offer a Roni’s own label pale ale as well as a wheat beer.

Private dining

The restaurant also has three private dining rooms upstairs which are perfect for a private dinner party or small function, including the 12-seater Blue Room.

Overall, if you are looking for somewhere to dine that truly offers an experience to remember, then Roni’s is well worth booking. And with Christmas, dare we say it, just around the corner, you won’t be surprised to hear that the bookings are already rolling in.

Roni’s 16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856 ronisrestaurant.co.uk

Four Rivers Coffee Co opens its first café in Birch Green

The boutique, Hertford-based Four Rivers Coffee Co has just opened its first café in nearby Birch Green.

The business was launched by owner Ashley Poole during the Covid pandemic when he built and equipped his own micro-roastery in a tiny roasting shed in the back garden of his home in Hertford Heath. His mission was to find consciously sourced and traceable speciality coffee from great farmers around the world, to roast the beans perfectly and make speciality coffee available to everyone.

Ashley sells his freshly roasted coffee (roasted on Sunday, dispatched on Monday) direct to customers through his website and in person at markets. He has also started to supply coffee shops, including in Ware and Ealing so far.

And now he has opened his first café in Birch Green. Its launch

DINING OUT GUIDE

opening hours are: Friday 8am to 4pm, Saturday 8am to 2pm and Sunday 8am to 4pm, but Ashley is planning to extend these to open on Thursday and Monday soon. You can buy coffee to drink in or to take away from the café at 19 Birch Green, Hertford SG14 2LR.

To order online or find out more, visit fourriverscoffee.co.uk.

SHISHBOURNE Turkish

Shishbourne is a Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant on Broxbourne High Road which is open seven days a week and offers a full menu throughout the day from 12noon until closing. It has a plush and luxurious look with an unforgettable Instagrammable interior, combined with great cocktails and an a la carte menu filled with Turkish classics. It also offers a bottomless dinner option from 6pm Monday to Thursday and a two-course lunch menu from 12-3.30pm Monday to Friday. There is live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings too.

27 High Road, Broxbourne EN10 7HX 01992 313198

www.shishbourne.co.uk

THE DUSTY MILLER Country pub

The Dusty Miller is a country pub and casual dining venue just outside Harlow, surrounded by countryside and close to the river. It serves freshly-cooked pub food, including a pie of the day and other pub classics, together with a good selection of gluten-free and vegan dishes. Thursday night is Steak Night with two steaks and a bottle of wine for £50. The Dusty Miller is open from 12noon to 11pm Wednesday to Saturday and from 12noon to 6.30pm on Sunday when a traditional roast is available. It also has a large, sunny garden area.

Burnt Mill Lane, Harlow CM20 2QS

01279 424180

www.dustymillerharlow.co.uk

BROHMON Bengali

Voted Best Restaurant in Essex at the 4th annual British Restaurant Awards 2022, Brohmon, which means Journey in Bengali, is the brainchild of Karim Ullah and his wife Sultana who have made it their mission to bring high quality food from the Bengal region of South Asia to Britain. They began by running pop-ups in Hertfordshire, including in both Hertford and Bishop’s Stortford, before opening their own restaurant in Stansted Mountfitchet where they serve a sensibly-sized menu of rustic Bengali dishes.

8 Chapel Hill, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8AG 01279 815688

www.brohmon.com

THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining

Nestled in the picturesque village of Great Amwell, The George IV offers exceptional restaurant cuisine within a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Oliver and his team serve a menu of seasonal and fresh small and large sharing plates to enjoy on the sun-drenched terrace over the summer months. The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event. Whether it is an intimate wedding, baby shower, birthday or a special anniversary, there is a variety of dining options to suit any occasion in the private dining room and courtyard.

Cautherly Lane, Great Amwell

SG12 9SW / 01920 870039 info@georgeivpub.co.uk www.georgeivpub.co.uk

BAAN THITIYA Thai

Baan Thitiya, Bishop’s Stortford’s premier Thai restaurant, is the perfect place for relaxed dining. Close to Bishop’s Stortford town centre, it has a beautiful garden and its own parking while, inside, the restaurant is decorated in a contemporary Thai style. The extensive menu features high quality food prepared by Thai chefs with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and authentic, natural flavours. It also has an excellent wine list. Baan Thitiya is open seven days for lunch and dinner. A warm welcome and great service await you.

102 London Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3DS 01279 658575

www.baan-thitiya.com

THE GOLDEN FLEECE Pub & Dining

The Golden Fleece is an old English pub with a contemporary twist, and one where the food is so good that it has earned an entry in the Michelin Guide for Hotels and Restaurants. Set at the heart of the village of Braughing, Jess and Peter Tatlow’s pub offers a menu of fresh, seasonal and delicious locally sourced food and also caters for diners who require gluten-free meals. As a freehouse at the heart of its community, the Fleece is also able to offer a wide range of real ales, beers, wines and spirits. A takeaway menu is also available.

20 Green End, Braughing

SG11 2PG 01920 823555

www.goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk

KHAO YAI

Thai

Khao Yai is a smart Thai restaurant in the centre of Hoddesdon that is now into its second year under new ownership. Khao Yai offers a broad menu of your favourite Thai dishes alongside superb service. Now open seven days a week, Khao Yai also offers both takeaway (with a 10% discount for collection) and delivery through its own website as well as delivery apps. In addition to the welcoming ground floor there is a large first floor dining space with its own bar which can also be booked for events, parties and private dining.

18 Brocket Road, Hoddesdon

EN11 8NZ 01992 445988

www.khao-yai.co.uk

RONI’S Fine Dining

Roni’s, set in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is a fine dining restaurant where both the quality of food and the service combine to offer guests a memorable experience. Roni’s offers a wide range of traditional dishes, passionately crafted, including gluten-free and vegan menus. There is a set lunch menu as well as the main menu and superb roasts are served on Sundays. Social wine tastings can also be booked for groups of family or friends in the private dining room. Roni’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon to 10pm, and closed on Monday.

16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856

www.ronisrestaurant.co.uk

THE BEEHIVE Country Pub

This family-run country freehouse reopened following a lockdown renovation with a major extension, creating new modern facilities which blend well with its historic character. The new look is proving popular with customers enjoying a menu that has plenty of fresh fish and seafood dishes as well as steaks, burgers, pies and many others. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are always available. It also offers a great Sunday lunch. Afternoon teas, which must be booked, are available from Monday to Saturday. Check social media for forthcoming events. Book now to experience its fresh new look!

Epping Green, near Hertford

SG13 8NB / 01707 875959

www.beehiveeppingreen.co.uk