What's On July - September 2020 by The What's On Mag

herts

Covering Harpenden, Wheathampstead, Redbourn & surrounding villages.

July to September 2020

Well worth a wander!

11 page supplement See page 33

Extra Support for your independent living... See page 25

Planning Building Work? MB Surveyors can help... See page 27 Need a Will? KKS Wills are here to help. See page 23

Computer Problems...

Spectrum IT are your stress free route to problem free IT See page 2

What’s On Herts & Harpenden Directory Supporting local shop, Trades and Services since 2009

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& Marke!ng, Gillian Barne3, said: “The Herts 10K raises much-needed funds for Rennie Grove, suppor!ng local pa!ents with life-limi!ng illnesses and their families.

The race will start at 10:00am prompt To ﬁnd out more about the event please visit www.herts10k.com

LOOKING FOR ... If you’re looking to start a new business or expand your current one, register with us and we will help with all of your property search requirements.

01582 469117 OFFICE LETTING & MANAGEMENT for Harpenden, St Albans & surrounding villages

Call 01582 469117 to discuss your office search or letting management requirements. 30

Alternatively, email info@65highstreet.co.uk or visit www.65highstreet.co.uk

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Summer 2020 Contents We welcome back our High Street after a long break, so please support them by shopping local where possible, in a safe & socially distanced way! Also don’t forget our army of Trades and businesses that also needs our support, many of which you will find inside the magazine. You will also notice a difference with the content of this publication with no “Diary of Events” section, due to very few events taking place when we hit the print button, however as every day goes by, hopefully more and more events will start to take place, so search on the various local website to see what’s going on. Hopefully by the time we publish our next magazine the “Diary of events” section will be back. In its place, we have printed “Well Worth A Wander” starting on page 33, which is a little guide to a few local beauty spot to visit, which we hope you enjoy! Our magazine can be view online by visiting www.harpendendirectory.co.uk and searching “What’s On” so if you leave home without it, you can view it on your phone! Stay safe and well, Your Local Media.

Well Worth A Wander Health and Beauty Recipes Homes Gardens Motors

Pages 33 – 43 Page 44 Page 50 Page 54 Page 70 Page 74

Printed and Published by Your Local Media. 67 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SL info@harpendendirectory.co.uk www.your-local-media.co.uk Publication Design & Artwork - Pete Salo 07956 596581 psdesign@rocketmail.com Advertising - Contact Tony or Mike on: Tel: 01582 469117 Tony Mcfarland - tony@harpendendirectory.co.uk Mike Hamilton - mike@harpendendirectory.co.uk Disclaimer:

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this publication is true and correct at the time of going to press. However, Your Local Media cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the use of information in this publication.

Welcome to Your Local Media, a local business run by local people.

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DON’T LOSE YOUR VOICE Residents in St Albans District are urged not to lose their voice by making sure their electoral registration details are up to date. With local elections taking place in May next year, it is important that residents make sure they can vote.

This year’s canvass, which we have to carry out by law, is taking place during a challenging public health situation. We are working to ensure that we take account of public health guidelines, including social distancing, on any visits we have to make. People who have moved recently are particularly encouraged to look out for the voter registration messages and check the details. Research by the Electoral Commission indicates that recent home movers are far less likely to be registered than those who have lived at the same address for a long time.

St Albans City and District Council carries out an annual cavass to keep the electoral register up to date.

Across Great Britain, 92% of people who have been at their property for more than sixteen years will be registered, compared to 36% of people who have lived at an address for less than one year.

This identifies any residents who are not registered so that they can be encouraged to do so.

There’s lots of helpful information about registering to vote on their website

In previous years, every home in the District was sent a household enquiry form with instructions that they were asked to complete.

Any residents who have any questions can contact the registration team at

However, this year there is a major change that has been planned for some time and should simplify the process. The Council estimates that no changes will be needed to the electoral register at around 80% of the District’s 60,000-plus properties. They will be contacted by email or letter to confirm the details held on the electoral register. There will be instructions on how to inform the Council of any changes that need to be made. The remaining households, where it is suspected there has been change, will be sent a canvass form with instructions on how to respond. If there is no reply, a canvasser may visit the property. Anyone who is not registered can do so online in a few minutes at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Amanda Foley, the Council’s Electoral Registration Officer, said: It’s important that residents keep an eye out for messages from us so we can make sure we have the right details on the electoral register for every address in the District. To make sure you are able to have your say at elections, simply follow the instructions that you are given. 4

www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter

electoralregistration@stalbans.gov.uk

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Details of the Council’s finances for 2020/21 were given in a report to a meeting of the Cabinet on Thursday 15 June.

COUNCIL FINANCES HIT BY COVID-19 PANDEMIC The Covid-19 pandemic could result in St Albans City and District Council being hit with a budget deficit of £3.6 million this year. The estimated amount – a quarter of the total annual budget – could use up most of the Council’s reserves. However, the budget gap could be reduced if a further Government grant is awarded to local authorities to cope with the impact of Covid-19. So far, the Government has provided an extra £1.5 million to the Council in emergency funding.

The report said the impact of Covid-19 had been “enormous” with the Council suffering a drop in income of £150,000 a week since the lockdown in March. Most of this stemmed from a slump in revenues from car parking services. All other income from planning fees, leisure centres, museums and other activities has also been severely affected. Councils across the country were experiencing the same difficulties with the Local Government Association saying an extra £6 billion will be needed for their pandemic costs.

TAILORED INSURANCE COVER RIGHT DOWN TO THE FINEST DETAIL THE PLACE YOU CALL HOME IS UNLIKE ANY OTHER. But it’s the things that make it unique and the things that make it yours that mean standard cover may fall short. For a more complete approach to insuring your property and contents, and protecting your lifestyle, there’s NFU Mutual Bespoke. Speak to Stefania Tschabold at NFU Mutual St Albans today on 01727 869496 or email Stefania_Tschabold2@nfumutual.co.uk

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Continued on page 8

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COUNCIL FINANCES HIT BY COVID-19 PANDEMIC Continued

The Government has so far provided £3.2bn with District Councils such as St Albans sharing £223 million of that. This sum, though, has only covered 47% of their £472 million of additional costs. A series of actions is already being taken by the Council to try and save money. These include reviews of all spending commitments, staff recruitment and the hiring of temporary or agency workers. Cabinet also agreed to postpone for nine months the implementation of new pay grades for some staff that were due to come into force the summer. This recommendation will be put before a meeting of the Full Council later this year. Councillor Karen Young, Portfolio Holder for Resources, said after the meeting:

“Although the lockdown is easing, we expect it will be quite some time before the local economy returns to normal. In common with Councils nationwide, as well as many businesses and other organisations, we are being hit very hard financially and that is likely to continue. The Government has provided some additional funding, but it still leaves us with a projected budget gap between income and spending of almost £4 million. That will be extremely challenging for us and it is to be hoped that we will get more Government help to deal with it. However, we are also taking immediate action to try and save money, including a review of new recruitment and spending. We will continue to actively monitor the impact of Covid-19 on our finances very closely and look for other ways of tackling the severe difficulties we are faced with on this front”. For more information visit:

www.stalbans.gov.uk

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HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL IS SUPPORTING A NEW INITIATIVE CALLED HARPENDEN CARES.

Harpenden Cares is a community-led response to the coronavirus, which involves lots of Harpenden’s brilliant voluntary sector groups.The initiative aims to support local people at risk, help keep key services running, and to be a trusted source of information. Harpenden Cares will:

• Offer a befriending service for local vulnerable and/or isolated people • Help deliver essential supplies and medication to vulnerable and/or isolated people • Offer street-level support to engage vulnerable and/or isolated people • Act as a general trusted source of information If you are isolated and require support or essential supplies, please call the Harpenden Cares Contact Centre on 01582 460457. The Contact Centre will operate Monday to Friday from 10am-2pm. The Harpenden Cares website, www.harpendencares.org has further information on how to get help or volunteer your time, in addition to other information and resources.

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PUBLIC ABLE TO SCRUTINISE THE COUNCIL’S ACCOUNTS

Residents are to have an opportunity to scrutinise and raise questions about the annual accounts of St Albans City and District Council. A first draft of the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2020 will be published in July when they can be viewed on the Council’s website. Included will be details of the Council’s spending over the 2019/20 financial year as well as the income it has received from its various services and funding sources. During the summer a team of external auditors from the professional services firm BDO will examine them and advise on any revisions. Residents will be able to raise questions or objections with the auditors who will take those into consideration. Councillors on the Council’s Audit Committee will meet informally on Tuesday 29 September to review the draft.They will be able to take into account any points raised by the public. The accounts will then be finalised before an Audit Committee meeting on Thursday 15 October when members will vote on whether to approve them. This meeting, which may be held online because of Covid-19, will be open to the public. To meet a Government deadline, the final version of the annual accounts will need to be published by Monday 30 November. Councillor Daly said: The Council is a public body which provides a range of important public services across the District, so it is important that its finances are rigorously checked. With the Covid-19 pandemic having a severe impact on the Council’s finances, detailed scrutiny of the accounts will be more important than ever. This process is conducted in a transparent way to maintain the confidence and trust of our residents. I urge anyone with an interest in local affairs to take a look at the draft accounts and also to voice any concerns or issues they may have. The draft accounts will be published here: www.stalbans.gov.uk/accounts-budgeting-and-spending in early July. Residents can also purchase a paper copy along with supporting documents by applying to the Deputy Chief Executive (Finance and Legal) at FinancialStatements@StAlbans.gov.uk 12

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile. I think we can all agree that the sooner we see the back of 2020 and this dreadful corona virus the better. That said, there are also some heart warming positives that we can take out of this situation. It has often been said that we can only really get to know one another and realise what is truly important in times of crisis. I think few would argue that in this case what has proven to be important is local community spirit. When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of

supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money. The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Stephen commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help again”.

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THERE’S FAIRIES AFOOT!!!

If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise! A fairy village has popped up in the woods, around Harpenden Golf Club on Eastmoor Park. This magical village is a lovely addition to your woodland walk and by the sounds of it, it’s a big hit with parents and children alike!

Woody & Belle Simms pictured above We enjoyed finding lots of the fairy houses today! - Shelly Fenton We found a total of 9 of the fairy houses today! Just wanted to say a huge thank you to all who took the time to create and place these! My daughter (and I)! Thoroughly enjoyed it! - Jessica Anastasia Smith Thank you to whoever is making these fairy houses- you have made a little girls day! - Sophie Barlow 14

THERE’S FAIRIES AFOOT!!! Continued The village, which has now reportedly expanded to over twenty five houses, both tree and ground dwellings, have not been given planning permission, said a spokes person from St Albans Council.

Due to the potential threat of being transported to fairyland, the Council has decided not to pursue Tinkerbell and the other fairies, so no further action will be taken.

To find out the latest on the village go to facebook, search for “The Harpenden Network”. 15

INVESTIGATIONS INTO SUSPECTED COVID-19 FRAUDS UNDERWAY

Eight applications for business grants to help with the impact of Covid-19 are being investigated for potential fraud. St Albans City and District Council are carrying out the enquiries after anti-fraud software pinpointed the dubious claims. The Council has distributed £24.3 million to 1,646 small businesses in St Albans District to help them cope with the impact of Covid-19. This money has come from two Government funds aimed largely at retail, hospitality and leisure firms and is non-repayable. A further £1.3 million Government fund is available for distribution to other small and micro-sized businesses which have not had any Government help. This money is the Local Authority Discretionary Fund with the Council having received more than 300 applications which are now being processed. A second round of awards may be considered depending on how much money remains after the initial round has been completed. Three software programmes have been used by the Council to check that applications are genuine while business rates records have also been examined. The Cifas database, for example, matches applicant details with records of previous fraudulent activity. Checks have highlighted two cases where the business may have ceased trading shortly after the grant was paid. A landlord who claimed for a second time after receiving a grant has also been identified. Five companies which were not trading from the address given were also discovered and the grants were declined. Details of the cases which may result in legal action were given to a meeting of the Council’s Audit Committee on Tuesday 23 June. The Committee also heard about the major risks to the Council from the Covid-19 pandemic. These included the impact on finances with the Council’s revenues from car parking, museums, leisure centres and other services being severely reduced. An economic recession brought on by the pandemic could cause further strain, adversely affecting income from the Council’s commercial and social-rental property. Demand for some Council services such as benefits would also rise. A third major risk is cyber attacks with the Covid-19 emergency leading to an upsurge in internet scams. As well as the danger of services being disrupted, there is also the risk of sensitive data being stolen and of financial losses. Councillor Julian Daly, Chair of the Committee, said after the meeting: “Some of our staff worked flat out to get the Government grants out quickly to businesses that badly need this financial support. Members of the Committee were grateful for their effort as it is really important to support local businesses that provide so many jobs for our residents. It is alarming that some people seem to have tried to take advantage of this Government scheme and commit fraud, but the numbers are small. What is also pleasing is that we now have robust procedures in place for rooting out suspect claims.The Committee will continue to ensure our anti-fraud methods keep pace with modern trends. It is vital that while we support local business, we also protect the public’s money by carrying out the most”

For more information please visit: www.stalbans.gov.uk

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‘INTELLIGENT’ POTHOLE CAMERAS KEEPING WORKERS SAFE DURING COVID-19

Innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used by Hertfordshire County Council’s highways team during the Covid-19 pandemic, to allow essential highways checks to safely continue.

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Instead of a driver and inspector team logging highways faults, the AI camera allows one inspector to drive while the device logs road defects, allowing this vital work to continue while meeting Covid-19 social distancing guidelines. The county council, which filled over 17,000 potholes last year, was the first to adopt the Vaisala Road AI system for safety inspections to ensure work could continue during the crisis to keep the highways safe for key workers and residents. Kevin Carrol, Divisional Manager of Ringway (the county council’s highways contractor), said: “The safety of our staff is paramount, and by using this technology we are able to ensure they are working in a safe work environment.

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‘INTELLIGENT’ POTHOLE CAMERAS KEEPING WORKERS SAFE DURING COVID-19 “Secondly, it allows us to continue with essential road maintenance during lockdown and in line with government recommendations. Social distancing and limitations with public transport have meant that roads are now the principal choice on which people are travelling.We need to ensure they are safe for emergency services, key workers and the general public.” The county council began trialling Road AI in February and when the Covid-19 pandemic hit the UK in March, the highways team realised the technology could be of significant help in tackling social distancing challenges. As a result, they made the decision to accelerate the trial and have since covered over 6,000km of the county’s highways. Councillor Phil Bibby, Hertfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Environment said:“This technology is great news for drivers in Hertfordshire. We’re always trying to find new and better ways of doing things, and the Covid-19 restrictions have given us the impetus to take rapid leaps forward that might otherwise have taken months to implement.

Continued “I’m really pleased that Ringway have been able to deploy this technology and continue with road inspections under difficult circumstances, while freeing up staff for essential maintenance work.” The Vaisala Road AI technology uses video recording technology to capture and transmit footage to a Vaisala cloud system for automated analysis. Following the data analysis, the footage is available for a member of the highways team to review and instruct any follow-up actions. Following a successful trial, the team were able to move to single person inspections for the duration of the current working restrictions. As a result of the new technology, the Ringway team has been able to redeploy drivers and inspectors, originally used for road inspections, to other essential highway maintenance activities.

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WHEN THERE’S A WILL THERE’S A WAY Putting a Will in place is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your family are financially protected and your children are looked after by the people you choose and trust.

Many wrongly assume that even without a Will in place, their partner, spouse or civil partner will inherit automatically. If you are not married, your partner will receive nothing even if you have children together. You may not realise that even if you are married or in a civil partnership and you have children, your spouse or civil partner is only entitled to £270,000 and half the balance with your children inheriting the other half.

Clearly, this could leave your spouse or civil partner in a very difficult financial position especially if your children are very young. If you have children, you need to be aware that Wills offer a vital opportunity to name guardians of your choice who will assume responsibility for bringing up your children. Wills also enable you to name people you trust to safeguard your children’s inheritance until they reach the relevant age at which you would like them to inherit.

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CCTV operators based in the Council’s offices monitor cameras at key areas in the District to help keep people safe and they have assisted the Police with a number of cases this year. A suspicious car was observed in Harpenden and the operator spotted the occupants weighing and bagging up cannabis.The police were alerted and they recovered drugs and a knife at the scene.Two men were arrested for intent to supply drugs and possession of an offensive weapon. On another occasion, an operator saw a van driving erratically late at night in St Albans.Again, police were alerted and the vehicle was stopped and searched. Two men were charged with theft. A further example of CCTV’s effectiveness was the case of a man spotted pushing at the front doors of several shops late at night in St Albans City Centre. Police were informed and he was arrested for burglary.

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WHEATHAMPSTEAD RAILWAY STATION Wheathampstead Railway Station was closed following the Beeching Report on 26th April, 1965.

As with many rural villages, the station had transformed the lives of local residents. It lay on a single-track branch line running between Hatfield and Dunstable with through trains from London to Birmingham. Within a few years of closure the tracks, surrounding embankments and station buildings had all been removed to make way for new developments and road improvements. All that was left of the station was most of the platform, high and dry on an isolated embankment raised 4m above the surrounding roads and buildings. Despite being within a stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw of the village centre, there it lay for over 40 years forgotten and completely hidden by ivy and saplings. In 2009 a group studying the heritage of the village rediscovered the platform remains and decided to restore it in time for the 150th anniversary of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opening on September 1st, 1860. 28

This was an ambitious project. The only access was by scrambling up the steep embankment. The tracks, platform slabs, ballast and all other signs of the railway had been salvaged or scavenged at the time of closure. All that remained were the railings, basic platform structure and some of the large edging slabs. Without access for heavy machinery or even water and power, the task seemed hopeless. Undaunted, the team raised financial support from businesses, the Parish Council (who own the site) and other groups. Most importantly, all of the work had to be done by hand (just as it was when it was built) so they had to rely on many villagers giving up their free time to clear the site. Wheathampstead is part of St Albans District and a group of sailors from HMS St Albans was despatched to help. Original materials were reused where possible but 18 new slabs each weighing a quarter of a ton had to be made by hand. By the time of the 150th anniversary of the opening in September 2010, the platform was once again open to the general public.

WHEATHAMPSTEAD RAILWAY STATION Work has continued since then and a 40 foot section of the original track has been put in place. One hundred and twenty feet of the platform is now complete with signage and access steps, and visitors can see a section of the original Victorian structure uncovered during the work.

Continued Being equally ambitious, the project team sought a 5 plank 12 ton wagon to set on the track. Once again, access was the issue and the wagon had to be craned about 100 feet in the air to clear surrounding trees. The wagon was dually restored and opened on the first of June 2014. A Lottery Fund grant has also enabled the team to construct a shelter in the style of the original buildings to complete the effect. The site forms an important part of the Wheathampstead Heritage Trail opened in 2011. Apart from being a local attraction for visitors, the team have planted trees and shrubs to attract wildlife and has installed a picnic table on the track bed. April 2016 saw the return of George Bernard Shaw to Wheathampstead Station More than 65 years after his death, George Bernard Shaw has been seen again at Wheathampstead’s railway station.

Being equally ambitious, the project team sought a 5 plank 12 ton wagon to set on the track. Once again, access was the issue and the wagon had to be craned about 100 feet in the air to clear surrounding trees. The wagon was dually restored and opened on the first of June 2014. A Lottery Fund grant has also enabled the team to construct a shelter in the style of the original buildings to complete the effect. The site forms an important part of the Wheathampstead Heritage Trail opened in 2011. Apart from being a local attraction for visitors, the team have planted trees and shrubs to attract wildlife and has installed a picnic table on the track bed. April 2016 saw the return of George Bernard Shaw to Wheathampstead Station More than 65 years after his death, George Bernard Shaw has been seen again at Wheathampstead’s railway station. The full-sized oak carving has been installed in the shelter on the platform and fans of the author and playwright can have their photograph taken next to the famous man.

The full-sized oak carving has been installed in the shelter on the platform and fans of the author and playwright can have their photograph taken next to the famous man. George Bernard Shaw was Wheathampstead Station’s most famous traveller, regularly cycling from his home in Ayot St Lawrence to catch the London train. Leaving his bike at the Station Hotel (6p per week) he would collect it on his return and cycle home. If running late, it was not unknown for him to send his chauffeur ahead to ask Mr Lee, the station master, to hold the train until he arrived! Go down to explore for yourselves. For more information please visit: www.wheathampstead-pc.gov.uk WHEATHAMPSTEAD RAILWAY STATION, WHEATHAMPSTEAD HERTS AL4 8DR.

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WELL WORTH A WANDER!

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Harpenden Common

Harpenden Common is a place of natural scenic beauty. A Green Flag Award winning site since 2007, the Common stretches almost 2 miles from the centre of Harpenden southwards and provides residents and visitors alike with an unsurpassed amenity and recreational resource.The Common is home to numerous types of wild and plant life and is recognised as a county wildlife and protected species site. Over the decades Harpenden Common has had varied uses including grazing for sheep, horseracing, hunting, ice skating, athletics, football, cricket, golf, circuses and fairs. Presently, the Common is home to a football club, two cricket clubs and a golf club.Throughout the year events such as fairs, circuses, classic car meetings and art exhibitions are still held on the Common. Although the horseracing has stopped, a permissive horse ride loops the Common. Residents and visitors can also enjoy a picnic area, Southdown Ponds, a nature trail, the Brickle Dells (where once bricks were made from the clay extracted) and the Hayfield with numerous wildflowers and grasses - something for everyone! A visitors leaflet entitled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Harpenden Commonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which includes a map of the Common showing the various walking trails and places of interest is available by visiting: www.harpenden.gov.uk/harpenden-common Address: St Albans Road, Harpenden AL5 2JF. Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day

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Rothamsted Park Harpenden

Rothamsted Park is a 56-acre (230,000 m2) public park in Harpenden, Hertfordshire. The park was formerly part of the Manor of Rothamsted, later Rothamsted estate, owned by Sir John Lawes. He initiated agricultural experiments in 1843, which led to the founding of the nearby Rothamsted Experimental Station. He also created the formal entrance from Leyton Road to what is now the Park and planted the avenue of Lime trees. In 1931, the family decided to sell the estate, and after a successful public appeal, the Experimental Station was able to finance its purchase of the estate in 1934. In 1938 the Harpenden Urban District Council purchased the land now known as Rothamsted park from the Experimental Station, in order to provide playing fields and to preserve an important open space. Rothamsted Park is also home to Harpenden Town FC. The Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main entrance gates were removed for salvage during the Second World War, and after the war the restoration of the entrance was paid for by the Friends Provident Insurance Company. In 1975 the nearby sports hall was opened by the Mayor of St Albans City and District, as one of the first major projects of the newly formed St Albans District Council. Address: Leyton Rd, Harpenden AL5 2HU. Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day

LYDEKKER PARK AN OASIS IN CENTRE OF HARPENDEN

The park is sited on land that was part of the grounds of Harpenden Lodge, which was built in 1803 and bought by the Lydekkers, one of Harpenden’s oldest families, in 1857. The property remained in the Lydekker family until 1987. The last surviving member of the Harpenden branch of the Lydekker family, Miss Hilda Lydekker, lived in Harpenden Lodge until 1979, when she left at the age of 93 to move into a nursing home. Her uncle, Captain Arthur Lydekker, was for six years the Chairman of Harpenden Urban District Council, from its inception in 1898.

This was to be completed by the developers of the newly created housing estate surrounding the park and donated in a finished state to the Council. As St Albans District Council was the successor Council to the former Harpenden Urban District Council, it became the beneficiary of this gifted land.

In 1937, Hilda Lydekker had entered into an agreement with the former Harpenden Urban District Council that the 11 acres of land attached to Harpenden Lodge should become private open space. It was her intention that part of it be preserved as a memorial to her loved ones lost in the 1914 – 1918 War. With the demise of the Urban District Council in 1974, this agreement passed to the newly created St Albans District Council. Following the death of Miss Lydekker in 1987, shortly before her 101st birthday, St Albans District Council entered into an agreement with the executors of the Will to retain a total of three acres as public open space with a car park.

The HarpendenTown Council of that time made strenuous efforts to have the public open space and car park retained in the ownership of Harpenden Town Council. Following discussions with the District Council, an agreement was reached in 1998 that Harpenden Town Council would lease Lydekker Park and the new 93 space fee paying car park from St Albans District Council at a peppercorn rent. In 2012 after much campaigning Lydekker Park and car park were devolved back from the District Council into the ownership of Harpenden Town Council. The Council has now created a 5-year management plan for the park which can be viewed here. Two new interpretation boards were installed in the park in August 2017 and feature a background to the history of the park, and information about the wildlife that inhabit the ponds. In July 2017, Lydekker Park was awarded its very first Green Flag Award, joining Harpenden Common as one of the UK’s very best open spaces.

Lydekker Park is situated just off Sun Lane, Harpenden.

Batford Springs Nature Reserve

Batford Springs is a 3.5 hectare Local Nature Reserve in Harpenden.. It is owned and managed by Harpenden Town Council. The majority of the conservation and maintenance work on the site is undertaken by Batford Springs Volunteers with assistance from the Council and other contractors. Such works are detailed in a 5-year management plan put together by the Volunteers with continuing input from a number of specialist advisors including the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. In 1995, the area was accredited as a Reserve by Natural England. Its principal features are the fresh springs that serve a small network of chalk lined streams and ponds. The River Lea with its riverside walks flows through the site and there is open grassland and a small wooded area to explore. Locally the River Lea from its source in Luton through Harpenden down to Wheathampstead has been made a focus for the Upper Lea Catchment Management Plan. In January 2015 the Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve was extended with the purchase of land in Marquis Lane. The land runs from the corner of Marquis Lane, eastwards to the bottom of Piggotshill Lane.A plan for to incorporate this area into the nature reserve is being drawn up in conjunction with the Batford Springs Volunteers and the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. A fully accessible path across the new area was installed in November 2016.

Nomansland Common

Nomansland common is approximately 130 acres (52.5 ha) of common land of which Wheathampstead parish council owns 35 acres (95 ha) the remainder being owned by the Althorp Estate and located in Sandridge parish. Nomansland is reputed to have got its name because of the bitter rivalry and frequent disputes between the monasteries of St Albans and Westminster. Both claimed the land was within their respective parishes of Sandridge and Wheathampstead. It is believed that this area was used for grazing as early as 4000BC.

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Horse races were held here regularly between 1829 and 1837. In 1829 King George VI won the St Albans cup and it is thought the first proper steeplechase in England was held here in 1830. There used to be a river running parallel to the main road from Wheathampstead to St Albans but this has now gone underground and runs where the outfield of the cricket pitch dips and turns under the cricket pavilion.

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During the 1700s Nomansland was notorious for highway robberies, Dick Turpin and Tom King used to meet there regularly on their way to other counties. The most infamous robber in these parts was Lady Ferrers of Markyate, dubbed the Wicked Lady. During this time a gibbet (gallows ) was erected at the top of the hill towards St Albans, as a warning for thieves.

In 1429 a Puddingstone was placed to mark the boundary between Sandridge and Wheathampstead. This stone can be seen on the outfield of the cricket pitch close to the road. For more information on Nomansland, its history and Puddingstone see the virtual museum on the Wheathampstead Heritage web site. www. wheathampsteadheritage.org.uk Car Park Address: Ferrers Lane,Wheathampstead, St.Albans,AL4 8EJ. Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day For more information visit: www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visitingwoods/woods/nomansland-common 39

Heartwood Forest Heartwood Forest’s 347-hectare (858-acre) site rises from what was once mainly agricultural land. It’s so big that it’s now the largest continuous new native forest in England; a place where everyone can find space, peace, wildlife and miles of beautiful woodland to explore. Heartwood Forest is owned and managed by the Woodland Trust along with more than 1,000 sites all over the UK and supported by more than 250,000 members. Find out more about the Woodland Trust by visiting www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/ New and ancient woodland Thanks to the hard work of thousands of volunteers, more than 600,00 trees have been planted and local communities and visitors have taken this new landscape to their hearts.There’s not just new woodland at Heartwood Forest though.The forest also has precious pockets of ancient bluebell woodland, old hedgerows, wildflower meadows, wonderful bird life and open grassland. Why simply imagine the dazzling spectacle of fields ablaze with flowers in rich shades of blue, yellow, red, pink, purple and white? Come and see them for yourself between May and August. Exploring Heartwood A network of paths, including a public footpath and two bridleways, run in and around Heartwood Forest, as well as through the existing ancient woodlands.You can also explore the site by bike, horse or on foot. There are three way-marked trails which take you to different areas of Heartwood Forest.To get more information visit: www. heartwood. woodlandtrust.org.uk/about-heartwood. Address: Sandridge, St Albans AL4 9DQ.

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Verulamium Park

Verulamium Park is a park in St Albans, Hertfordshire. Set in over 100 acres (0.40 km2) of parkland,Verulamium Park was purchased from the Earl of Verulam in 1929 by the then City Corporation.Today the park is owned and operated by St Albans City and District Council. The park is named after the Roman city of Verulamium on which it stands.The City walls and outline of the main London Gate can still be seen.Archaeological excavations were undertaken in the park during the 1930s by Sir Mortimer Wheeler and his wife Tessa, during which the 1800-year-old hypocaust and its covering mosaic floor were discovered.The Hypocaust Mosaic is on view to the public and currently protected from the elements by a purpose-built building in the park. On the outskirts of the park is Verulamium Museum, which contains hundreds of archaeological objects relating to everyday Roman life in what was a major Roman city.A pub,Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, is also located on the edge of the park.This pub has been listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest such establishment in England. A main feature of the park is the ornamental lake. Construction started on this project during 1929,[1] giving much needed work to the unemployed of St Albans during the depression.The lake is fed by the River Ver.The lake is home to a wealth of waterbirds, including mallards, swans, herons, great crested grebes, coots, pochards and tufted ducks. Address: 1 St Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Street, St Albans, AL3 4SL. Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day

– SUNDAY 8th OCTOBER 2017

Stanborough Park

Last year the event raised nearly £100,000 in sponsorship, which was a fantas!c achievement, and we’re hoping to raise even more this year.” “If everyone who has signed up so far could raise just £50 in sponsorship, we’d already be well on the way to funding a nurse for a year.”Good luck if you are taking part, but if not, please come down and support all the runners, in this fantas!c charity event. Please remember there is NO parking at Rothamsted Research.

There is now less than a week to go un!l the Stanborough alsoHerts referred10K to as in Stanborough Lakes is a 126-acre park in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. start of thisPark, year’s Harpenden. TheSunday park features two lakes, which were moremarks recently in 1970.They are man-made and were built as a result of gravel On 8th October, thousands willopened take their extraction at the time of the building of the A1(M) motorway, although the thought of a riverside park had been considered at Rothamsted Research in Harpenden at the start of the since the city’s Master Plan of 1949 The whole park is completely man-made from an old quarry site creating the lakes and mul!-terrain 10k course through the beau!ful Hertfordshire the hills around them. countryside.

The Boating Lake (the northern lake) at Stanborough is 11.3 acres (46,000 m2) in size. It is a shallow lake, under three feet in

Founded 2006,small thisislands. year The marks thelakeevent’ 11th depth withinseveral boating is feds by water from the River Lea at its north end and from a spring. Excess anniversary s!ll going strong. An es!mated 20,000 water flows and overit’asweir back into the river at the south end. Coarse fish such as carp are bred in the boating lake and fishing people have taken part since the inaugural race 11 years is banned here. ago make itlake) a yearly on their The and Sailingmany Lake now (the southern is 15.3feature acres (62,000 m2) in size. running calendar. Rennie Grove Director of Fundraising This lake has no islands but is deeper than the boating lake, more than six and a half feet deep in places. Unlike the Boating Lake The race will start at 10:00am prompt & Marke!ng, Gillian Barne3, said: “The Herts 10K raises the Sailing Lake is ground water fed. To ﬁnd out more about the event please visit much-needed funds for Rennie Grove, suppor!ng local Before the lakes were built the River Lea used to flow through part of the Sailing Lake but it was re-directed to the west side. pa!ents with life-limi!ng illnesses andhere, theirincluding families.sailing, windsurfing and angling.www.herts10k.com Many watersport activities take place

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Heartwood Dunstable Forest Downs

Dunstable Downs are part of the Chiltern Hills, in southern Bedfordshire . They are a chalk escarpment forming the north-eastern reaches of the Chilterns. At 797 ft (243 m), Dunstable Downs are the highest point of the county of Bedfordshire. Because of its elevation, Dunstable Downs hosted a station in the shutter telegraph chain which connected the Admiralty in London to its naval ships in the port of Great Yarmouth during the years 1808 to 1814. Whipsnade Zoo has cut an enormous lion shape into the chalk into the side of one of the hills. The lion can be seen from the B489 (Aylesbury to Dunstable road).

The downs are home to a wide variety of wildlife including many rare wild flowers, such as the bee orchid, and butterfly species, like the marbled white and the chalk hill blue. Areas of the west-facing slope were notified in 1987 under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) called Dunstable and Whipsnade Downs. Blow’s Down is a continuation of the Dunstable Downs escarpment on the eastern side of Dunstable. It is also an SSSI and most of it is managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire (as Blow’s Downs).

The downs are used by gliders, kite fliers, hang gliders and paragliders in the area because of their height. The London Gliding Club is based at the foot of the downs. Much of the downs is managed by the National Trust as part of the Dunstable Downs & Whipsnade Estate property. At the northern tip of the Dunstable Downs, lies the Five Knolls Barrow Cemetery. First described by antiquarian William Stukeley in the 18th century, the site contained burials from the late Neolithic to Saxon eras prior to excavation. They include the ‘Five Knolls Woman’, aged between 35 – 40 years, buried on her side with a flint knife. A mother and child, buried with a number of echinoid fossils were also found, dating approximately from the early Bronze Age. The site is also known for the deviant burial of executed Saxon criminals.

Walk in the steps of history giants at Dunstable Downs, is a walk that begins and ends with elevated views from Dunstable Downs. Find out how people in prehistoric times, right up to the recent past, lived in this unique landscape. Visit the Armada fire beacon, Pre-historic mounds and site of the Admiralty Signal station. For details and directions of this walk visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstable-downsand-whipsnade-estate/trails/walk-in-thesteps-of-history-giants 43

Health

HERTFORDSHIRE UNITED AGAINST

CORONAVIRUS

Important information about support and advice

on coronavirus

available from your county council

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/ coronavirus 44

A guide to your county council services

Support for people who need it By the time you receive this leaflet you may have been self-isolating for several weeks. We just wanted to remind you that we are here to support you. Help is at hand if you: • have received a letter from the NHS telling you to stay at home due to an existing health condition • are over 70, pregnant, have an underlying medical condition or are normally eligible for a flu jab • are in financial crisis • have lost your usual support network of friends, family and neighbours due to the impact of coronavirus.

If you fall into any of these groups contact HertsHelp. Visit www.hertshelp.net, email info@hertshelp.net or call 0300 123 4044. You can also contact HertsHelp if you run or are part of a community or voluntary group and need some extra help at the moment. Anyone currently using a social care service should expect that to continue, however if you’re worried about this please speak to your care provider in the first instance or call on 0300 123 4042 for other urgent care needs.

Looking after yourself and your family It’s important that we continue to follow these simple steps: • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds. • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing – if you use a tissue throw it 2

Your Hertfordshire

in the bin then wash your hands. • Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth unless you have just washed your hands. • Follow the latest government guidelines on self-isolating and social distancing. 45

Staying well at home Whether you are self-isolating for medical needs or socially distancing, being at home all day can be stressful. It is important that we stay physically and emotionally well during this time. Here are some top tips to help you do that: Be up to date. Get the latest news from trusted sources like the NHS or the BBC, don’t get it from social media. Be active. Great for mind and body. Find ways to keep physically active that work for you like gardening or online exercise classes. Be connected. Keep in touch with friends and family on the phone or by video call. Be prepared. Think about what you are going to need like food and medicines and a make a plan. Be in a routine. Develop a new daily routine that works for you. Be occupied. Now is a great time to get on with your hobbies or to try something new. Be alert. Scammers are taking advantage of some people at this difficult time. 46

Be helpful. See how you can support others. Whether it’s someone you know or volunteering to support people locally, there are lots of ways to get involved, even from home. Be relaxed. Try a relaxation or meditation exercise that works for you and practice it once a day for at least 10 minutes. Be heard. Talk to friends, family, or community or faith groups about how you are feeling. Writing things down can help you to organise your thoughts. Be positive. Try to look for positives in the current situation like having some extra ‘me time’, or having the chance to catch-up with something you have been meaning to do.

Where to go for advice If you are self-isolating and you need emotional support or practical help www.hertshelp.net Info@hertshelp.net HertsHelp: 0300 123 4044

Medical and health advice and information www.nhs.uk/coronavirus

Information about local council services www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/ coronavirus

If you are experiencing domestic abuse or worried about someone else who might be

Financial advice Money Advice Unit: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/benefits Hertfordshire Citizens Advice Service: 03444 111 444 www.hcas.org.uk National debtline: www.nationaldebtline.org 0808 808 4000

Advice on avoiding scams Sign up for scam alerts from trading standards www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/ updateme Citizens Advice consumer helpline: 0808 223 1133

www.hertssunflower.org

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in volunteering

If you are in immediate danger always dial 999

www.thvolunteering.org.uk HertsHelp 0300 123 4044

Hertfordshire Domestic Abuse Helpline: 08 088 088 088 (freephone Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat/Sun 9am-4pm)

Mental health advice and support Herts Mind Network www.hertsmindnetwork.org 020 3727 3600 0300 777 0707 (8am-7pm) Nightline: 01923 256391

The quickest and easiest way to access our services and contact us is www.hertfordshire.gov.uk Follow us on social media @hertscountycouncil @hertscc @hertscc @HertfordshireCountyCouncil 48

Our priority is you Your GP will give you the time and are you need when you need it the most. They can refer you for the services you require including specialist or nurse-led treatments. We are open 7 days a week and same day appointments re often available. Contact us today

Call 01442 331035 osdhealthcare.co.uk

Your partner for a healthy life 49

food & Drink

Starter Warm Scallop Caesar Salad Serves 2

Method: Use a heavy pan which heats evenly. Pans that aren’t non stick will give the best browning, and be sure to choose a pan where scallops can be cooked in a single layer. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat about 30 seconds, then add scallops and cook quickly, probably not more than 2 minutes per side. Don’t have the heat too high or the scallops will release moisture and won’t brown properly. (Scallops are better slightly underdone than overdone, so don’t overcook.

Ingredients: • 8 large sea scallops • 4 cups of washed romaine lettuce While scallops cook, assemble lettuce on two serving or mixed leaves plates. Place four scallops on top of lettuce on each plate. • 1-2 tsp. olive oil (depends on your Turn pan to high and put water in, then scrape the bottom pan) of the pan to get any browned bits, keeping heat high to let • 1-2 Table spoons of water some of the water evaporate. After about one minute turn (for larger pan use 2 Table spoons) off heat. Stir in salad dressing and lemon juice and let it get • 3 Table spoons Caesar Salad slightly warm in the hot pan, then pour over salad and serve. Dressing Top with fresh ground black pepper if desired. • 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice 50

Main Course Grilled Steak with Prosciutto wrapped Asparagus Serves: 4 Prep: 30 - 60 minutes Cook: 15 minute

Method: Preheat Oven to 425 degrees

Steak: Evenly distribute the steak rub, meat tenderizer, salt, pepper, yellow mustard and wine on the top of each cut of meat, 4 Rump, Rib Eye or Sirloin Steak keeping in mind you will flip the meat and do the other side. 2 tbs Steak Rub *Prior to pouring the wine over top of meat, poke holes in the meat with a fork so the wine goes into the holes. Leave to 2 tbs Meat Tenderiser marinade at room temperature for 20-60 minutes. 1 tbs Salt Place marinated meat on the grill and cook to desired doneness. (For a medium rare on a 2 inch cut is 4 minutes on 1 tbs Pepper one side on a high and 10 minutes on the other, lowering the ¼ cup Yellow Mustard heat to a medium on the 2nd side.) Remember to allow for ¼ cup Red Wine, Cabernet or Merlot the meat to rest for 5 minutes before cutting. 1 Asparagus bunch Prosciutto wrapped Asparagus: ½ lb Prosciutto or Serrano Ham Wrap a slice of prosciutto around one asparagus spear ¼ cup Olive Oil and repeat the process until all spears are wrapped. Place asparagus on a baking tray lined with foil for easy clean-up.Top 2 tsp Salt all the spears with olive oil, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. 2 tsp Pepper Place in a preheated 425 degree oven for 10-12 minutes then 1 tsp Red Pepper Flake serve. Ingredients:

Next 3 dates are: 26th July, 23rd August and 27th September. Harpenden Town Council is excited to welcome traders & shoppers to the Harpenden Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market. There are several important changes & details to be aware of for the return of the market.These changes are being implemented to create a safe environment where people feel confident to come and visit: 1.The market will be moved to the Common opposite the Public Halls in order for social distancing measures to be easily observed 2.The market will operate on a one in, one out queuing system to maintain a safe capacity 3. Once inside the market, there will be a one-way route that attendees must follow 4.All shoppers will need to adhere to social distancing guidelines while in the market 5. For now, hot food traders will not be present at the market but we are able to facilitate all other stallholders The above changes might be amended so it always best to visit Harpenden Town Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website before your visit to check. Each Market finds a huge selection of produce available; for example: Meats, pies, sausages Fish Preserves - pickles, jams and honey Cheeses Vegetables and fruit Flowers and plants Fresh bread, cakes and pastries Eggs Beer, wine and liqueurs If you would like an application form or further information, please email Harpenden Town Council on:

harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk Please keep up to date with any changes by visiting

www.harpenden.gov.uk 52

Dessert Pecan Pie Total Time: 55 min Prep 10 min - Cook 45 min Serves 6 - 8 Ingredients: For the Pecan filling: 3 eggs 110g/4oz sugar 4 tablespoons golden syrup 2 tbsp rum 50g/2oz butter, melted a pinch of salt a few drops vanilla extract 175g/6oz pecan halves 1 un-baked deep-dish (9-inch) pastry case

Preparation Preheat oven to 350F degrees . Break the eggs in a large mixing bowl and beat well and then beat in the sugar.Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour the mixture into the pastry case and bake for 10 minutes and then reduce the oven heat to 180C/350F/Gas 4 and bake for another 30 minutes or until the top of the pie is golden. Check if it s cooked through by inserting a skewer, it s done if it comes out clean. Turn out of the tin when slightly cooled and serve warm or cold with vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of crĂ¨me fraiche. 53

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MIRROR MIRROR ON MY WALL…

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Just like windows, mirrors add light and depth 14:29 to the room interior, so feel free to use them as decorative windows that could be installed in any place you wish.

21/07/2020

It shouldn’t necessarily be a big wall mirror, even a small mirror in bold framing can become a centre of attention. Designers tend to use mirrors in small rooms since they are able to visually expand it. Just make sure it reflects nice views. Mirrors cannot only enlarge space, but also brighten it up and become an additional source of lighting. Large floor mirrors allow making a statement in a narrow room and bring a dramatic effect, which cannot be accomplished by other décor elements.

You will be surprised to find out that mirrors can serve as full-fledged art objects. Simply play with them and try to hang a group of mirrors on a certain wall. Ensure the mirrors are proportional to each other and to the wall: don’t try to hang a multitude of small mirrors on a big wall. Entryways, dining rooms and other areas that deprive of natural light are perfect for installing mirrors.When complemented with candles, art objects and original lighting, they allow creating a one-of-a-kind ambiance.

Harpenden

Plumbing & Heating Ltd

• • • • • •

Bathroom Specialist Heating Installations Boiler Repairs, Servicing & Installs Gas Safety Certiﬁcation & Inspection Power Flushing Thermal Imaging Camera

Tel: 01582 939 775 Mob: 07876 200 110

www.harpendenplumbingandheating.co.uk enquires@harpendenplumbingandheating.co.uk – 55

Harpenden Blinds We Supply & Fit All Types of Blinds Awnings & Shutters Curtains Tracks & Poles Specialising in Bay Windows

FREE No Obligation

Consultation, Measuring & Quotation.

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Shutters & Patio Awnings

Teresa & Kevin Buckler

Product recalls and safety notices are made by traders and about products that have problems which could affect the safety of the consumer. You can also view any vehicle recall notices on the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency website:

01582 461639 kevin.buckler@fit-ex.com www.fit-ex.com/hertfordshire 20 Bewdley Close Harpenden

Whilst being in lockdown and shops closed, millions of us have turned to the internet for their retail therapy fix, so it’s worth while keeping an eye on any product recalls there might be, which can easily be done by visitingTrading Standards: www.tradingstandards.uk/consumers/productrecalls-and-safety-notices#

www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-recall Traders wishing to display their recall/safety notices on the Trading Standards website should email:

publications@tsi.org.uk

Ross Witton Decorators Limited

High Class Decorating at sensible prices

All Painting & Decorating Work Interior & Exterior Kitchen Unit Refurbishment Plastering & Coving • Tiling • Fully Insured Domestic Commercial & Industrial Established Local Company Reviews on:

Mob: 07952 265849 Tel: 01582 512997 65 High Street Harpenden Herts AL5 2SL

ross@theharpendendecorator.co.uk www.theharpendendecorator.co.uk 56

HARPENDEN’S FAMILY FIRM YOU CAN TRUST

Your complete building service, large and small works, professional advice

Lafters, The Common, Kinsbourne Green, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 3PD

Telephone: Harpenden (01582) 713919 Email: enquiries@rcgrimwade.co.uk

HARPENDEN’S FAMILY FIRM YOU CAN TRUST

Your complete plumbing, heating and friendly gas service. Bathroom and shower specialists.

Lafters, The Common, Kinsbourne Green, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 3PD

Telephone: Harpenden (01582) 713919 Email: enquiries@rcgrimwade.co.uk 57

Top tips to promote p tips to promotewhilst at home resilience ilienceWhether whilst at home you are self-isolating for medical needs or socially

distancing, at home can be stressful. It is important r you are self-isolating forbeing medical needsallorday socially that we staycan physically and emotionally well during this time. ng, being at home all day be stressful. It is important ten things youduring can dothis to promote your overall wellbeing: stay physicallyHere andare emotionally well time. e ten things you can do to promote your overall wellbeing:

Top tips to promote resilience whilst at home 1. Be up to date

6. Be occupied

Now is a great time to get on with your interests or explore new ones. sources such as: is a great to get oncurrent with your Know what thedistancing, latest is, using reliable being at home all day can be Now stressful. It istime important You could try a hobby that you used to https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk current interests or explore new ones. sources such as: that we stay https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ physically and emotionally well during this time. enjoy buttohaven’t had the time for. You could try a hobby that you used https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk Here are tencoronavirus-covid-19/ things you can do to promote your overall wellbeing: enjoy but haven’t had the time for. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ Try to limit how much news you 7. Be helpful coronavirus-covid-19/ watch / read to once or twice a day. See how you can support others. Try to limit how much news you 7. Be helpful6. Be occupied 1. Be up to date Whether it’s someone you know or watch / read to once or twice day.the latest is, using reliable See how you can support Now is a greatothers. time to get on with your Knowawhat volunteering to ones. support people locally, 2. Be current interests or explore sources suchactive as: Whether it’s someone you know or new are of ways You could people try athere hobby that lots you used to to get involved Great for mind and body. Find ways to https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk volunteering to support locally, 2. Be active enjoy but haven’t hadyour the time for. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ keep active that are there suitable are lots of ways to getwith involved community even from home. Great for mind and body. Find waysphysically to coronavirus-covid-19/ to suitable your ability and circumstances withe.g. your community even from home. keep physically active thatTry are to limit how much news you 7. Be helpful gardening home-based exercise 8. support Be relaxed to your ability and circumstances e.g. to or watch / read once or twice a day. See how you can others. Try a relaxation or meditation exercise gardening or home-based exercise Whether it’s someone you know or 8. Be relaxed volunteering tothat support people works you and practice it once 2. 3. Be Be active connected Try a relaxation or meditation exercise forlocally, there are lots of to get for mind to contact a ways day for at involved least 10 minutes. Know whoand youbody. needFind to ways stay in that works for you it once 3. Be connected Great withand yourpractice community even from home. keep physically active that are suitable with for help with getting things done a day for at least 10 minutes. Know who you need to staytoinyour contact ability and circumstances e.g. or just a general chat; this could include 9. Be heard or home-based exercise with for help with getting gardening things done 8. Be relaxed family, friends, local community or faith to friends, family or community or just a general chat; this could include or meditation exercise 9. with Be heard Try a relaxationTalk groups. Find new ways to connect works for and you and practice it once 3. Beorconnected faith groups about how you are family, friends, local community faith Talk to friends, that family or community them such as video a day for at least 10 minutes. Know who you need to staycalling. in contact feeling. Writing things down can help to groups. Find new ways to connect with and faith groups about how you are with for help with getting things done organise your thoughts. Living through them such as video calling.or just a general chat; this could include feeling. Writing things down can help to 9. Be hearda piece of global history could be a 4. friends, Be prepared family, local community or faith organise your thoughts. Living through Talk to friends, family or community great toyou start Think about whattoyou are with goinga to groups. Find new ways connect piece of globaland history be atime faith could groups about how area diary! 4. Be prepared them suchand as video calling. need make a plan. You can make feeling. Writing things down can help to great time to start a diary! Think about what you are going to organise your thoughts. through daily, weekly, and monthly plans to 10. BeLiving positive need and make a plan. You can make a piece of global history could be a 4. help Be prepared get the things you need, e.g food, Try to look for the positives in the daily, weekly, and monthlyThink plans to 10. Be positive great time to start a diary! about whatmagazines. you are going to medicines, help get the things you need, neede.g andfood, make a plan. You can make Try to look for the positives situation in the e.g. having some extra me time me or having the opportunity to medicines, magazines. daily, weekly, and monthly plans to situation e.g. having 10. Be positive some extra help the things need, e.g food, something you have 5.getBe in a you routine Try to look for catch the positives in the time or having the opportunity to up with medicines, situation e.g. having some extra to medo. meaning Developmagazines. a new daily routine thatcatch worksup with something youbeen have 5. Be in a routine time or having the opportunity to for you, this could include regular waking been meaning to do. Develop a new daily routine5.that works catch up with something you have Beand in abedtimes, routine planned mealtimes, up for you, this could include regular been meaning to do. Developwaking a new daily routine that works and time to be physically active. for you, this could include regular waking up and bedtimes, planned mealtimes, what the latest using6. reliable Be occupied 1. Be up toWhether date youKnow are self-isolating foris,medical needs or socially

and bedtimes, planned mealtimes, and time to be physically up active. This information hastobeen compiled in partnership with the following and time be physically active.

Cairns & Hall half page ad.pdf

13/12/2018

❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

15:13

EXTENSIONS CONVERSIONS RENOVATIONS INTERNAL & EXTERNAL LOFT & GARAGE CONVERSIONS BESPOKE SUMMER HOUSES BATHROOMS & HEATING PLASTERING & TILING REPLACEMENT RUBBER WORK

All aspects of plumbing, gas and electrical work carried out by qualified tradesmen.

Tel: Nick: 07779 688 9540 Jamie: 07971 162 232

Email: cairnsandhall@gmail.com Web: www.cairnsandhall.co.uk

• • • • •

Boiler Servicing, Repair & Replacement Bathroom Design & Installation Specialists Central Heating Installation Landlord’s Gas Safe Inspections Leaking Pipes, Dripping Taps, Broken WCs

‘Harpenden’s Trusted Plumbers’ - all our staff are fully trained and properly equipped to work safely and hygienically in your home during this pandemic

01582 460185

office@eastandgray.co.uk 59

Hammonds End Lane, Harpenden, AL5 2AY 59

10 APPS TEENS ARE USING THAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW Calculator% This app looks like a calculator but functions like a secret photo vault. Omegle A free online chat website that promotes chatting anonymously to strangers.

Snapchat This is the way most teens communicate with each other. Sending messages and snaps that disappear within seconds and stories go away after 24 hours. Teens live for a “streak” of communication.

Whisper An anonymous app where the creators promote sharing secrets & meeting new people.

Ask.fm Ask an anonymous question and get an answer. This app had been linked to the most severe forms of cyberbullying.

OVER 60 YEARS SERVING HARPENDEN AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Extensions & Alterations All General Building Work Loft Conversions All Brickwork Undertaken Carpentry & Joinery Property Renovations Roofing & Roof Repairs

Call: 01582 621347 / Mob: 07594 541870 Email: info@pshalsey.co.uk Web: www.pshalsey.co.uk 9 Tallents Crescent, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5BP

plumbing

. . heating

bathroom & kitchen specialist

Plumbsmith are a local business providing complete design & build solutions to domestic & commercial clients.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fantastic! We are so thrilled with our new bathroom. Thank you, it really has been a pleasure from design consultation meetings through to completion. Would highly recommend Plumbsmith.â&#x20AC;?

Receive a minimum of 20% Discount on all Sanitary Ware when booking with Plumbsmith Contact Simon Smith on: 07961 067894 or 01582 937522

2 Wells Close, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 3LQ. simon@plumbsmith.co.uk www.plumbsmith.co.uk

61 61

10 APPS TEENS ARE USING THAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW continued Hot or Not Strangers rate your profile. Goal is to lead to a hook up. Burn Book Post anonymous rumours about people through audio messages, text and photos. Wishbone An app that allows users to compare kids against each other and rate them on a scale.

Kik Messaging app. Kik has built in apps and web content that would be filtered on a home computer. Instagram Many kids are now creating fake accounts “finsta” to hide content from parents. Kids also like to text using Instagram because most kids know parents won’t check messages.

Goodson Builders Ltd ESTABLISHED 1975

Extensions & renovations and expert in conservation & heritage work complete service from drawings to decoration quality old fashioned craftmanship plus competitive old fashioned prices guaranteed to please. Full Building Maintenance Service ALL WORK QUALITY ASSURED & GUARANTEED

CALL: 07850 746171 FAX: 01582 873456

Email: goodson.builders@lineone.net 62

Cutmore Carpentry full page ad.pdf

27/06/2020

15:29

CUTMORE CARPENTRY

BESPOKE CARPENTRY SOLUTIONS

Kitchen Design & Installation Made to measure bespoke Wardrobes, Shelving Units, TV Units and more.

Tel: 01582 483459 Mob: 07980 235644 63

Fine

Harpenden Waste Away and Recycling are a Harpenden based, registered waste carrier that offers a friendly, affordable rubbish and waste removal service.

Our flexible approach ensures that we can meet your waste management needs in a quick, professional and friendly manner.

Often cheaper than a skip, we are the cost effective way to get rid of your waste legally and ethically with waste recycled where possible.

With the increase of fly-tipping, It’s very important to check that your waste carrier is fully licensed like Harpenden Waste Away which you can do easily, via this website:

At Harpenden Waste Away & Recycling our goal is to make waste removal fuss free for our customers and we take great the work we1do. 20/11/2018 15:48 Roofing half pride page in advert.pdf

Call Harpenden Waste Away & Recycling today on:

Whether you want to clear out the garage, get rid of that old furniture, have some bulky waste that you can’t fit in your dustbin or have a full house clearance, it’s always worth giving us a call. Harpenden Waste Away will always provide a professional service at aFine reasonable price guaranteed. We are1 a Roofing half page advert.pdf company committed to recycling and take all rubbish to transfer stations that recycle all reusable materials.

www.environment.data.gov.uk

07486 646756

www.harpendenwasteaway.com It couldn’t be easier.....No fuss, No hidden charges, Know where your waste goes! 15/12/2015

17:56

Beware of companies that under charge.

FINE ROOFING ROOFING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

TILING • SLATING • LEADWORK • VELUX WINDOWS • FLAT ROOFS APPROVED INSTALLERS OF RUBBERBOND FLEECEBACK EPDM FLAT ROOF SYSTEM • GUTTERING UPVC FASCIAS & SOFFITS

CALL GARY ON: 01582 621366 OR 07966 397734 info@fineroofing.co.uk www.fineroofing.co.uk 28 VALE CLOSE, HARPENDEN, HERTS AL5 3LX 64 64

harpenden waste away fp ad.pdf

15/09/2017

14:20

RUBBISH REMOVAL AND RECYCLING

Harpenden Waste Away & Recycling is a professional, friendly, reliable service that remove rubbish from homes, gardens and commercial business premises. The company is fully licensed with the Environment Agency as a registered waste carrier and is fully insured. Local friendly service - Domestic house & garden clearance Commercial business waste removal - No Job too big or too small Removal of almost all types of rubbish – Same day collection Areas we cover: Harpenden, St. Albans, Redbourn, Wheathampstead, Welwyn Garden City, Hitchin, Luton, Hemel Hempstead, Watford, Dunstable & all surrounding areas.

Call Harpenden Waste Away & Recycling today and arrange your rubbish removal

07486 646756

www.harpendenwasteaway.com Same Day Collection • Fully Licensed & Insured • Cheaper Than Skip! 65

Neighbourhood Watch is one of the biggest and most successful crime prevention initiatives ever, now involving millions of people across the country. It is based on the simple idea that you and your neighbours can help to reduce crime and create a better place to live, work and play.

Around 100,000 households in Hertfordshire are members of Hertfordshire Neighbourhood Watch, which is more than 1 in 5 of our residential addresses.The number of new members is increasing all the time, at a rate of about 500 per month. Hertfordshire residents regularly receive messages about crime prevention, missing people and security advice thanks to the award winning Online Watch Link (OWL). See www. hertswatch.com for details of how to sign up.

NOVO full page ad.pdf

20/07/2020

14:24

Ross Clark and Peter Scrivener set up Novo Construction to offer all of their customers, a piece of mind, cost effective building experience. Drawing on their combined 39+ years in the building trade, they can help with all your building requirements.

• • • •

Extensions Renovations Alterations Home Offices References

• Loft Conversions • Complete Building Services • Landscaping • Garage conversions a vailable on request

RP Novo Construction Ltd 94 Alzey Gardens, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5SZ

Tel: 01582 260945

Ross Mob: 07976 854840 Peter Mob: 07775 715086

Email: peter@rpnovoconstruction.co.uk ross@rpnovoconstruction.co.uk

Web: www.rpnovoconstruction.co.uk

DON’T WASH BUT SCRAPE!

Hands up who cleans their dirty pans in the sink? That’ll be most of us then. But turns out washing our frying pans in this way could be harming the environment. According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), who have issued new guidance on how people should be cleaning pans in order to save water. Instead of just rinsing under the tap, they are advising you wait until oil in your pan has cooled before scraping the excess off to reuse or bin. They then suggest we wipe leftover grease out of the pan with kitchen roll before finally washing. It is estimated the UK water industry spends £100m each year on clearing blockages caused by the wrong things being put down sinks and toilets.

The department released the guidance as part of its new Love Water campaign, which aims to reduce the amount of oil we pour into our waterways as a nation. If washed off with water, the oil and fat can harden in pipes, causing fatbergs to form - which is expensive to remove. Just one litre of oil poured down the sink can pollute one million litres of water, DEFRA said. The Food Standards Agency said there is no reason not to follow the advice regarding cleaning frying pans,“As long as utensils are washed appropriately after scraping out the oil, there is no health and safety issue.” The advice comes as campaigner’s fear England could run short on water in the next 25 years, with Environment Agency chief executive Sir James Bevan describing it as a “jaws of death” situation.

For more information visit: www.gov.uk

DISTRICT & MODERN STORES LTD.

Not just a paint shop! Not only can you buy all you need from our extensive Paint and Wallpaper shop, but now, with our Bathroom Department upstairs run by Jon Greer, you can now buy your bathroom suites and plumbing supplies. Pop in to see bathroom displays today!

• WALLPAPER • PAINT SUPPLIES • BATHROOM DISPLAYS • PLUMBING SUPPLIES

2 Vaughan Road, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 4ED

Decorating Tel: 01582 715004 Bathrooms Tel: 01582 622272

www.districtandmodern.co.uk 68

FLAT PACK MIKE Assembly Service

The Original Flat Pack Installer! Harpenden based flat pack assembly service available to take the headache out of building your furniture.

• Clean • Professional • Friendly • Cost Effective mIKEA

mIKEA

• Hassle Free Service

Saving relationships for years!

Available at a time that suits you, for all your flat pack jobs, from a Desk to a Wardrobe, from IKEA to Argos, I do the lot! Call or Email me today with your Model Name & Number for a Free Quote on:

01582 713034 or email info@flatpackmike.co.uk

FLAT PACK MIKE

www.flatpackmike.co.uk 69

Gardens

Goregeous Landscapes is a fully insured company that has been established for 17 years and the business continues to grow steadily built on our reputation. We are an enthusiastic team providing many specialist services throughout the South of England. Drives Patios Garden Walls Brick Work Conservatory Bases Fencing Turfing

Power Washing Repair Work Garden Design Planting Swimming Pools Resin Driveways Construction

FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE CONTACT MATTHEW 07585 978132 01582 876171 matt@matthewgoreltd.co.uk

w w w. m a t t h e w g o r e l t d . c o . u k 70

RIVER VER UPDATE The Environment Agency has committed £300,000 to the next phase of the Revitalising the River Ver partnership project. The money will help fund the drawing up of detailed designs by specialistsBadger as wellLandscapes as the business case for proceeding with the initiative. Revitalising the Ver is half page ad.pdf 1 09/12/2017 14:11 a multi-million project to turn a 2.5 kilometre stretch of the rare chalk stream into its more natural state as it flows through Verulamium Park and the Sopwell Nunnery green space.

Badger Landscapes Landscape and Garden Services

A friendly and professional approach to our work is our key focus. Badger Landscapes specialises in the following products & services

• • • • • • •

Garden Design Project Management Patios Paths Driveways Decking Fencing

• • • • • •

Pergolas Artificial Grass Turfing Sheds & Bases Tree Work Planting AND MORE!

65 High Street, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 2SL.

Tel: 07989 394041 W: www.badgerlandscapes.com E: pete@badgerlandscapes.com 71

LOOK AFTER YOUR BIRD VISITORS Don’t assume birds don’t need your support in the garden during the summer months. Birds breed in spring and early summer, so by this time of year they are feeding their young and very glad of any extra food you can provide. You’re also giving them a great start on building their energy resources for the colder weather later in the year. And if you can provide a bird bath this is a real lifeline during hot weather – just remember to keep topping it up. What to feed them • Suitable seeds and grains (like nyjer, millet, oats, and sunflower seeds). • Only feed peanuts if they’re unsalted, fresh and sold for human consumption or by a reputable feed shop. To protect chicks from being fed whole nuts and choking, provide peanuts in good quality mesh feeders. • Cooked pasta or rice, boiled potatoes, cheese, uncooked and unsalted bacon rind, raisins and sultanas. • Net-free fat or suet balls attract a wide range of species and provide a great boost of calories. • Apples, pears and soft fruits are popular and are a great autumn food. • Insects such as mealworms or waxworms. BeFlyercareful! Grapes, sultanas, raisins and some artificial sweeteners are toxic to dogs. NEW April 2013_Layout 2 15/05/2013 12:04 Page 1

01582 840144 07939 623675

www.highelmstreesurgery.co.uk Email: info@highelmstreesurgery.co.uk

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• No Job too small • FREE Estimates & Advice • • Fully Insured to £10 million & Approved by Local Authorities • Herts, Beds, Bucks & London + we will beat any written quotation Registered in England No. 5005478 VAT Reg. No. 847 4261 12

72 72

ROCOCO Landscaping and Building was established in 2003. With a wealth of experience in Landscape construction working alongside establishes garden designers. We undertake all aspects of landscaping and have a number of testimonials from happy clients. If you are looking for a complete garden make-over including design and build or perhaps something more modest, then ring Peter on:

01582 621222 or 07775 715086

Motors

WE WARN CAR OWNERS, “DON’T BE A TOSSER” ‘Don’t be a Tosser’ has been designed to send a hard-hitting message to drivers and their passengers that our roads are not one giant litter bin and that the owner of a vehicle can be fined up to £150 if rubbish is seen being thrown out of a car window.

New rules came into force in April this year to allow local authorities to fine the registered keeper of a vehicle if litter is seen being thrown from the vehicle.This means they no longer have to prove who threw the rubbish. Keep Britain Tidy Chief Executive Allison Ogden-Newton said: “The mindless act of tossing plastic bottles and fast-food wrappers out of car windows is doing damage to our environment and our wildlife. “Research published recently in Keep Britain Tidy’s Journal of Local Environmental Quality showed that millions of small mammals – voles and shrews - were dying after being enticed into bottles and cans thrown on to grass verges. “We need to get the message out there that being a tosser is socially unacceptable and, regardless of who throws the rubbish, if it comes out of your vehicle you are responsible.”

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MOT CENTRE

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MOT CENTRE

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MOT CENTRE

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is a dynamic new agency with an unrivalled knowledge of Harpenden and the surrounding villages.

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to buy, sell, let, or rent, KEN WHITTAKER and his experienced team will help you every step of the way.

Call Ken on 01582 761500 82c High Street Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SP Email sales@whittakerandco.co.uk www.whittakerandco.co.uk 76