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Autumn 2012 Contents Pets Film Diary of Events Fashion Health & Beauty Recipes Homes Gardens Motors

A warm welcome to the Autumn edition of What’s On! Brought to you by Your Local Media. Summer may be over, but what a Summer 2012 proved to be. With the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, The Olympics and the sunshine which August brought I certainly felt proud to be British (and was pleased that we had chosen to holiday in the UK!) Autumn is a beautiful time of year and soon the trees will be adorned with amazing autumnal colours for us all to enjoy. And then, as the nights draw in, we have Halloween, Bonfire Night and Christmas to look forward to.

Page 59 Page 60 Pages 62-81 Page 80 Pages 83 – 89 Pages 90 – 95 Pages 96 – 121 Pages 122 – 125 Pages 126 – 129

Printed and Published by Your Local Media. 67 High Street, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2SL info@your-local-media.co.uk www.your-local-media.co.uk Editorial Content:

To find out exactly what the coming months have in store check out our ‘What’s on Guide’, and then visit our website and set up an email reminder for your favourite events - www.whatsonherts.co.uk.

Claire Gillies

Publication Design & Artwork: psdesign@rocketmail.com Advertising Contacts - Tel: 01582 469117 Tony Mcfarland - tony@your-local-media.co.uk Mike Hamilton - mike@your-local-media.co.uk

Enjoy!

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.

Claire Gillies

5 YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL NEW WORCESTER BOSCH & VAILLANT BOILERS

Editor

Welcome to Your Local Media, a local business run by local people. This quarterly publication is delivered to local distribution points throughout Harpenden, Wheathampstead, St Albans, Redbourn, Markyate and Flamstead. 20,000 A5 Glossy magazines carrying a 3 month What’s On listing providing great longevity for advertisers. Publication Dates: January - April - July - October. Deadlines: 1 month prior to publication date. What’s On Rates Prime £350 Full Page £260 Half Page £165 Quarter Page £120 Eighth Page £75 All prices + VAT

BOOK YOUR ADVERT IN THE NEXT ISSUE, JANUARY TO MARCH 2013 2

Lady Godiva Rides into town!

If you were in Harpenden on the morning of Friday 3rd August you may have caught sight of ‘Godiva’ (or you may have been held up in its wake!) And you may well have been wondering since then what it was all about! They cycled in groups of 25 powering Godiva on her amazing journey; they sought sanctuary along the route at Rugby, Northampton, Milton Keynes, Luton, Hatfield, and Waltham Abbey before arriving in London to take part in the London 2012 celebrations.

The spectacle which travelled along our roads was called ‘Godiva Awakes’ and was part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad. In tune with the Olympic spirit of courage and determination, Godiva’s journey to London was an epic challenge for the 100 cyclists who powered her from Coventry, in the West Midlands, to London, home of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Harpenden and Wheathampstead residents were lucky to catch a glimpse of this amazing sight as the cycle travelled from Luton’s Stockwood Discovery Centre to Hatfield’s Birchwood Leisure Centre. The 100 strong Godiva Awakes cycling team consisted of novice and experienced cyclists, led by British Cycling Champion Mick Ives.

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PART-NIGHT LIGHTING The implementation of part-night lighting across the county is now nearing completion. Works in the final district, East Hertfordshire, are underway whilst small numbers of the more difficult conversions are being completed in North Hertfordshire and Stevenage. All of the works will be completed by the end of September. Elsewhere in the county, parallel works will be undertaken to eradicate a known fault in the photocells used to control the county’s street lighting. The fault, which occurred in the week commencing 19th March 2012, caused significant numbers of street lights to miss one complete night of operation. The supplier of the photocells has accepted responsibility for the fault and will be replacing the equipment free of charge. Installation costs will be met by the council’s highways contractor. There will be no cost to the county council for the rectification works. Stuart Pile, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said,” We are taking a proactive approach to ensuring that the known lighting fault does not recur. This work will be carried out with no cost to the council.” “It should be noted however, that the act of exchanging the faulty photocell for its replacement will cause each light to return to all night operation for between two and three nights before part-night operation resumes. It may also happen that some lights come on during daylight hours but this will be very short lived.”

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Gable Construction is a niche local property developer and house builder offering an unbeatable service in Harpenden, St. Albans and the local areas. Gable Construction designs and builds new homes.

Works will take about two weeks to complete and St Albans works should start from the second week of September. If you feel that the street lights should be switched back on again there is an online petition (open until the end of the year.)

Plenty of free parking! Buy your loved one something special from Jays Delicatessen! Christmas Hampers from as little as £15 Choose your Personalised Hampers and we will give wrap it for you! Locally sourced Christmas Puddings and Mince Pies Gourmet Cutting Pies & Gala Pies now available to order

If you are looking for a dependable house builder for your project please call

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or email gable.construction@virgin.net For further information about Gable Construction please visit our website www.gableconstruction.co.uk

Get in touch with us for all your catering needs over the festive season.

FLAMSTEAD SCARECROW FESTIVAL 2012

Eleven years ago, The Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre (HMSTC) - with the help of the Friends of St Leonard’s FOSL - conceived the idea of the ‘Flamstead Scarecrow Festival’ as a vehicle to raise funds for the two charities.

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A genuine local family run business Manufacturing & installing windows for over 27 years.

This year’s festival was held on the very hot weekend of the 17th of August and was a fabulous event for the whole family. And it wasn’t just about the scarecrows (although they were the stars of the weekend;) visitors were also treated to a wide range of entertainment and refreshments including a brass band, morris dancers and cream teas in the church gardens.

There were around ninety scarecrows built by the villagers of Flamstead (quite a few of which had a very British theme with the Olympics and the Queen featuring highly!) Visitors were given the chance to vote for their favourite three; 1st place was one of the Olympic designs, 2nd were the Smurfs and 3rd wasThe Hungry Caterpillar.

This year Flamstead welcomed an estimated 4250 visitors over the three day event; it is a little early to tell how much was raised, but they are confident that there will be a good amount for both charities. £220.00 was raised from the cake sale alone and £349.00 from the tombola (the organisers would like to thank everyone who baked cakes and donated items.) There were around ninety scarecrows built by the villagers of Flamstead (quite a few of which had a very British theme with the Olympics and the Queen featuring highly!)

Photos of all of the scarecrows can be seen at: http://www.flamstead-her ts.co.uk/galler y/ scarecrow2012winners.html

Doors • Conservatories • Vertical sash windows • Bi folding doors Soffits Fascia & Guttering • Garage doors

If you missed this year’s Festival make sure your pop along in 2013...you won’t be disappointed!

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IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS TODAY YOU’RE IN FOR A BIG SURPRISE! Town Mayor Councillor Mrs Nicola Linacre said, ‘We were delighted so many families turned out in the beautiful weather to enjoy Lydekker Park and the entertainment on offer. It was a wonderful day for Harpenden’s younger residents and their teddy bears – a good time was had by all!’

BEST VALUE SOLID OAK IN HERTFORDSHIRE!

Harpenden Town Council’s annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic was a great success this year with over 400 children and bears gathering in the wonderful surroundings of Lydekker Park. The picnic is part of an ongoing campaign which aims to increase awareness of Harpenden’s open spaces. Children were entertained at the free event (sponsored by local business Mum’s Guide to Harpenden) with face-painting, a bouncy castle, Smartie Artie and an interactive story telling session by co-sponsors Drama Llamas.

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Wheathampstead Dramatics

Wheathampstead Dramatic Society Presents presents

Euripides'

Fancy something a little different? Give Wheathampstead Dramatic Society’s Latest Production a try. Helen of Troy – we all know the story – ‘The face that launched a thousand ships’ – a war that lasted ten years – the wooden horse – the final destruction of the city and its people...but what if it had all been completely pointless? This is the basic idea behind ‘Helen’, a new, vibrant and accessible reworking of Euripides’ play by Frank McGuiness. In the play, Helen was whisked away to Egypt by the Gods whilst a god-created doppelganger was taken to Troy in her place. Seven years after the sack of Troy, her shipwrecked husband Menelaus stumbles on shore in Egypt, only to find a woman who looks remarkably like the wife he thought he had just left hidden in a cave! What happens next turns into a romantic comedy as confused identities are finally resolved and Helen has to find a way of fleeing an amorous King of Egypt; dealing with an Egyptian princess who can see into the future; a cantankerous gatekeeper and finding a way to save her husband’s life! This new version of ‘Helen’ was first presented at Shakespeare’s Globe to glowing reviews in 2009.

Helen In a new version by

Frank McGuinness 18, 19, 20 October 2012 8pm Memorial Hall, Marford Road, Wheathampstead All tickets (£8) available from: Manor Pharmacy, Wheathampstead & Harpenden

Or telephone 07943903016 Tickets online at www.wheathampsteaddramaticsociety.co.uk

“Helen” will be at the Memorial Hall, Wheathampstead on the 18th, 19th and 20th October. Tickets £8 from the Manor Pharmacy, Wheathampstead or telephone: 01582 629594.

Waddesdon’s Artists’ and Makers’ Fair Fine Art for Kids was set up by Emmylou Yeomans in 2006.

Looking for some inspiration this Christmas? Why not try Waddesdon’s Artists’ and Makers’ Fair for a unique and personal gift. 6th and 7th October from 10.30 to 4.30, at Waddesdon Plant Centre (the Glass House), Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH. This is a hugely exciting event with 65 artists and makers taking part; the emphasis is on demonstrating and showing how each participant creates their work. A wide range of painters and printmakers are taking part along with ceramicists from Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. Entry to Waddesdon Garden Centre is from A41 Bicester/Aylesbury Road - along Queen Street opposite The Long Dog public house. £3 entry supporting Helen and Douglas House, Iain Grove House Hospice and Young Carers Bucks.

As a child she struggled with dyslexia in school and she discovered that through art, she found a way of expressing herself that had no ‘rights’ or ‘wrongs’. Emmylou’s talent for Art gave her a new found confidence. She is determined, through her art classes, to encourage children in the same way by taking inspiration from the Great Masters of Art and giving them the tools and techniques to produce their own masterpieces. Fine Art 4 Kids run term time courses and holiday workshops throughout the year in Hertfordshire and North London.They have classes for children and teenagers and even adults!

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You can find all the details and book on their Emmylou@fineart4kids.com Tel: 0208 2750360

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Bespoke Picture Framing Service

Doggy Day Spa Part Time - Dog Groomer Required Exciting opportunity for a qualified and experienced dog groomer to join our friendly team based in the heart of Harpenden. You will need to be City and Guilds qualified, skilled in all aspects of dog grooming of all breeds of dogs, a successful proven track record of a minimum of 4 years within a similar role. Strong organisational and communication skills are essential along with diary and time management skills and a flexible approach are a must. If you have all of the above and share our love of dogs we would love to hear from you. Please contact Felicia Jepson on 01582 872067 or 07789 908833 or email info@doggy-day.co.uk

Wide Choice of Frames, Mounts and Glass Types.

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First 2011 census results show increase in local population The first 2011 census results from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) have been released. The results for St Albans City and District show that the local population has grown to 140,600 - an overall growth since 2001 of 8.8%. This compares to an East of England rise of 8%, a Hertfordshire rise of 7.9% and an England and Wales rise of 7.1%. Welwyn and Hatfield has the biggest increase in Hertfordshire with a rise of 13.2%. There are officially 56,100 occupied households in the district. Between each census, ONS provides annual estimates of population growth, and these figures are in line with those that the Council has been expecting and planning for. They will be using these figures, and the results of subsequent census information releases, to plan resources and ensure council services are effectively targeted. St Albans residents did better than the national average on completing their census forms with a 95.5% response rate locally, compared to 94% nationally. Councillor Julian Daly, Executive Leader of St Albans City & District Council, said, “This is the first release of information from the 2011 Census. On first analysis, these are broadly in line with what the Council was expecting. We will work with our partners to assess what the impact is on council services and any changes we may need to make.” There are four further ONS census data releases planned,which will have more detailed breakdowns of information. The next release is expected in November 2012.

Celebrate

a Thistle Christmas Gala Party Nights in the Marquee

from £30.00 per person Dates available throughout November & December We are pleased to offer you a traditional 3-course Christmas dinner before dancing the night away to our resident DJ. We are hosting our Gala Party Nights in our Marquee to offer plenty of availability for these ever popular evenings.

Late Party Nights January 2013

from £19.99 per person Available throughout January Celebrating the festive season late? You will find our January parties pack the same atmosphere and offer excellent value for money.

Christmas Day Lunch in The Noke Restaurant

£90.00 per adult

£45.00 per child under 16 years old Children under 2 years old free Relax and let us do all the hard work for you. Enjoy a glass of Champagne on arrival then tuck in to our sumptuous and traditional carvery buffet.

New Year’s Eve

in The Noke Restaurant

£100.00 per person

Celebrate the New Year in style at Thistle St Albans. Your evening will start to the sound of our traditional piper before the evening’s festivities commence, starting with our 8-course feast and ending in the early hours of New Year’s Day.

For more information visit thistle.com/christmas

ST ALBANS

Watford Road, St Albans AL2 3DS T 01727 854252 F 0871 376 9134 thistle.com/stalbans

CBeebies’ Star Andy goes Bananas in the Public Halls!

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Print & Design Service In the Summer Andy Day and his acting partner, the hilarious Mike James, finished their three year tour of ‘Andy & Mike’s…Big Box of Bananas’ at the Harpenden Public Halls. The high energy performance was matched only by the squeals of delight from the excited young audience of CBeebies’ fans. The winners of the ‘Mum’s Guide to Harpenden’ competition, Nick and Alex Evans, three and five, were lucky enough to meet the actors before the show. They enquired whether Andy’s CBeebies’ animated co-star Kip would bring her Kip-mobil and where on the whole planet was Andy’s favourite place. The boys received signed photos and gifts from the duo and a sneak preview of the stage before the audience arrived.

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STREET LIGHTING So, the implementation of part night lighting is near completion; but many local residents feel that it was a bad decision. Daniel Graham has set up an online petition to ‘Turn our Street Lights Back On.’ He believes that the lack of lighting at night affects all residents; the key arguments cited are:

7. 8. 9. 10.

1. Increased Crime 2. Fear of Crime 3. Road Accidents - parked cars can’t be seen. 4. Problems for shift workers & anyone returning home late - NB lights go off before last trains and buses.We live in a 24 hour culture these days. 5. CO2 emissions will not be reduced if we all have to put on our own floodlights and buy torches. 6. Economy of the scheme - £4.5m spent to recoup £1.34m per year is not in our best interests.

Alternatives have not been seriously considered LED lighting gives less CO2; lights could be on PIR sensor and activate when walked past; times could be changed; alternate lights off. Savings don’t outweigh any of the benefits. Sheer lack of visibility for any street users - people simply can’t see in front of them. Lack of consultation on such a major change to our lives; the public should have been consulted.

If you agree that our street lights should be turned back on you can sign the online petition: https://consult. hertsdirect.org/petitions/petition?petition_id=26045 And if you want to read the counterargument there is a contrary petition which can be found at: h t t p s : / / c o n s u l t . h e r t s d i re c t . o r g / p e t i t i o n s / petition?petition_id=58962

High quality Harpenden Common wins Green Flag Award! In July Harpenden Common received the Green Flag Award, a sign to local residents and visitors alike that the common is one of the country’s best green open spaces.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT.

A record number (1424) of UK sites have received a Green Flag Award this year ensuring that even more of us now have access to wellmanaged, high-quality green spaces so important for health and leisure activities.

It doesn’t have to be a Kia or Mazda to be of interest to Brayley Kia and Mazda.

Councillor Bert Pawle commented, “I am pleased that yet again this year our Common has received a Green Flag Award. It is all as a result of our partnership working and the Council’s focused approach. My thanks go out to the Town Council’s grounds maintenance staff, our contractors, clubs on the Common, and not forgetting our volunteer project workers. This combined effort has delivered year on year a Common that is maintained to a very high standard, for the enjoyment and benefit of the community”’.

That’s right; in addition to new and used Kia and Mazda sales and servicing, our expert technicians can conduct all aftersales work on any make or model of vehicle at competitive prices:

Keech Hospice Care - Caring For Local Children

The Green Flag Award scheme continues to grow internationally with expansion into the Netherlands and Germany due to ambitious pilot projects.

Dedicated Fashion & Home shops in Bowers Parade

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Communities Minister, Andrew Stunell said: “Great parks and green spaces have a huge impact on local communities, providing places to play and relax as well as bringing generations together in a variety of ways. They are fundamental to our quality of life, whether in cities, towns or villages, and the Green Flag Award scheme seeks to help raise the standards of them all. The many excellent stories coming from the scheme prove what communities and volunteers can achieve by working together with professionals in our green spaces.Well done to all those involved in creating these inspirational places for everyone to enjoy. 22

Clothes • Furniture • Cushions Rugs • Lamps • China COLLECTIONS SERVICE AVAILABLE

01582 462578

• MOT: £29 (Limited period) • All makes and models servicing from £99 • Major Service: £249 • Four-wheel alignment: £49 • Minor Service: £99 • Complimentary health • Air-con re-gas: £49 check plus wash and vac 60 pre-owned Mazda’s and Kia’s in rear car park.

All makes servicing. All under one roof. Brayley Kia & Mazda 17 Luton Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2UA. Call 01582 447369.

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13/09/2012 15:26

St Albans Mayor meets volunteers at Grace Muriel House Garden Party Cream teas and jazz music welcomed the Mayor of St Albans City and District, Councillor Eileen Harris, when she visited Grace Muriel House’s annual Garden Party on Saturday 14th July. The Harpenden Methodist Church jazz band provided music at the St Albans care home throughout the afternoon. Stall-holders offered cream teas, plants and bric-a-brac to appreciative residents, volunteers and visitors. The supporters of the house include a group of friends who give their time to raise funds for the residents of the home.Young volunteers from local schools were also on hand to help, one of whom took photographs of the Garden Party. The Mayor, Cllr Eileen Harris, said:“I really enjoyed meeting the residents, staff and volunteers at the home. I could see that a lot of hard work had gone into the Garden Party, and it was very much appreciated by the residents and visitors.” Manager Annette Gibbons said:“The garden party is always a happy and relaxed occasion for everyone who attends. Residents, family and friends come together to chat and have a good time. It is Grace Muriel House’s way of saying ‘thank you.’ Grace Muriel House is home to 37 older people and celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. The home is a member of The Abbeyfield Society, a registered charity that operates hundreds of homes for older people across the UK.”

The Skew 6 months in! Nick and Bernie have been carefully nurturing the Skew Bridge, Harpenden, in its best direction since 1st March and it has to be said ‘wow, what a difference!’ The all new Skew Bridge in Harpenden has now been open for 6 months, and although the summer weather has been changeable, the beautiful garden has been enjoyed by many. In fact some sunny afternoons have flowed into balmy summer evenings where the wine, cocktails and jugs of pimms have been continuous thirst quenchers. Nick and Bernie are delighted by the great reactions to the all-new Skew, their plan for an oasis of calm where you can enjoy great food and fine wine is appreciated by so many. Using London Wine merchants Layton’s they have finalised a new wine list with five whites, two roses, five reds and a delightfully crisp Prosecco, all of which are available by the glass; bottle prices range from £12.50 - £20.00. A subtle Picpoul de Pinet from the Languedoc region of France tops Bernie’s list; she tells me it is crisp and lemon scented, with a hint of peach and a smooth full body- a truly fantastic white. One of Nicks favourites is the Passitivo Primitivo from the Puglia region of Italy. It is deep red with an intensely flavoured with a nose of dried fruits (prunes and raisins) and a hint of chocolate.

Coming Up at

THE KEW RIDGE

Christmas MENU Starters

Smooth Duck Pate served with crusty bread Crispy Filo Prawns served on a bed of mixed leaves with a sweet chilli dip Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup served with a mini loaf

Main Courses

Traditional Roast Turkey served with roast potatoes roast parsnips, seasonal vegetables, stuffing and cranberry sauce Beef Stroganoff served with rice Salmon Fillet in a Dill sauce, served with crushed new potatoes green beans and carrots Butternut Squash Spinach and Red Onion Crumble in a creamy cheese sauce, served with a mixed leaf salad

Desserts

Wednesday 16th October Authentic Curry Buffet Night in conjunction with Spice of Caddington, we will hand over our kitchen to their Indian chefs who will produce a contemporary Bangladeshi feast!

Sunday 4th November Live music from 6-8pm with local guitar / vocalist Dave Brierley.

Friday 16th November Beaujolais Nouveau Festival. The opening of the new Beaujolias with canapés on arrival followed by French onion soup with a cheese topped crouton, Poulet Marengo and Tarte Normandie.

Traditional Christmas pudding served with brandy sauce Hanky Panky chocolate pie served with cream Warm Belgian waffle with Vanilla ice cream and maple syrup

£20.00 per person All tables for Christmas bookings will be set with festive tablecloths, napkins & Christmas crackers.

Booking will be essential for all of these events as space is limited. The Skew Bridge Christmas Menu is now available and bookings are being taken, All of the above information is available on our website www.theskewbridge.co.uk or you can email us on celebrate@theskewbridge.co.uk

59 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 1PQ Tel: 01582 763727 26

HERTS 10K –

gives Hertfordshire their chance to shine

Sporting fever has gripped the nation following the success of the Olympics. The organisers of London 2012 hope to leave a sporting legacy to the country encouraging people to get up and participate in sport.

one to one drum tuition to 20offer years experience •We everyone of all ages and abilities. Graded examination undertaken •With nearly 20 years’ experience, in One toand oneperforming, tuition we bring a •teaching wealth of real world knowledge and Unique & adaptable •passion to our students to help them teaching methods realise their full potential. Gift • vouchers available is fun, but the learning of Allprimary levelsfocus from •Our an instrument benefits for people of Beginnerhas to many Advanced ALL ages. Skills such as co-ordination, problem By increased appointment only •solving, I.Q, social awareness and stress

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relief can all be developed by learning the drums.

The HERTS 10K has also benefited the wider community by bringing together people from across the district and enabling them to take part in a first class sporting event.”

We offer the first lesson FREE when you sign up for a terms tuition and along with our Gift Vouchers for one or more lessons, we offer something for everyone.

Please feel free to give us a call to come and see the studio for yourself and to take advantage of our FREE first lesson offer.

He went on to add, “Every year people come in their thousands to take part in the HERTS 10K. For many people it is the first time they have taken up exercise and you can see on their faces the pride they feel when they cross the finish line.”

Here in Hertfordshire we are lucky to have one of the country’s best loved 10k runs right here on our doorstep. The HERTS 10K, which takes place on Sunday 14th October 2012 at Rothamsted Research in Harpenden, was founded to raise funds for Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care (IRGH). Over the past 6 years the event has raised over £600,000 for the hospice. As well as raising money the event has encouraged local runners in their thousands to get out and start running. The 10K multi terrain course is open to runners of all abilities as well as walkers. Many participants in the HERTS 10K got into running when they signed up for the race and have gone on to compete in marathons. Paul Parrish, Deputy Fundraising Director said, “At the hospice we are incredibly proud of our flagship fundraising event. The HERTS 10K helped raised thousands of pounds which has enabled the hospice to provide services caring for local people with life threatening illnesses. 28

IRGH are keen to encourage people to take up regular exercise as it is well known that exercise is one of the factors that can reduce an individual’s risk of being diagnosed with cancer later in life. Paul Parrish ends by saying, “Whilst we can’t all be Olympic heroes the HERTS 10K gives anyone over the age of 12 the opportunity to take part in a fun and friendly event where everyone goes away with a medal and a real sense of achievement.” The 2012 HERTS 10K takes place at Rothamsted Research in Harpenden on Sunday 14 October 2012 starting at 10.00am.

Our commitment to teaching is reflected in the quality of staff we attract. Our tutors have recorded with Kylie Minogue, EMI, Sony, Universal records along with extensive live experience including Ronnie Scotts, The Royal Albert Hall, London 2012 Olympic Games, West End shows, BBC Concert Orchestra, BBC Big Band, Top Of The Pops, CDUK and This Morning.

• 20 years experience • Graded examination undertaken • One to one tuition & adaptable • Unique teaching methods • Gift vouchers available levels from • All Beginner to Advanced • By appointment only

To sign up for the HERTS 10K visit www.herts10k.com 29

High Aspirations For All In All

Councillors show support for St Albans City and District Bereavement Network (SABN)

Beechwood Park is a day and flexi-boarding preparatory school for girls and boys aged 4 - 13 years located in Markyate, near St Albans.

A total of £7,500 has been allocated by seven county councillors to St Albans City and District Bereavement Network. This means SABN can now hold a fourth memorial service and recruit and train volunteers to work with bereaved children.

The recently refurbished and enlarged Beechwood Park Montessori Nursery close by at Little Cheverells welcomes children from three years.

Beechwood Park is a day and flexi-boarding preparatory school for girls and boys aged 4 – 13 years located in Markyate, near St Albans.

SABN was founded in 2002 to offer support for bereaved people, both adults and children, in the City and District (including Harpenden).

County Councillors Maxine Crawley (St Albans, Rural) allocated £1,000, Councillors Geoff Churchard (Sandridge), Martin Frearson (St Albans, South), Rob This year, SABN is looking to recruit and train 15 Prowse (St Albans, East) and Allan Witherick (St Albans, additional volunteers to join the children’s team working North) each allocated £500 and Councillors Aislinn with bereaved children, young people and their families. Lee (St Stephen’s) and Bernard Lloyd (Harpenden, North East) allocated £250 and £200 respectively. The In addition, there have been requests, from families who councillors unanimously decided to support this cause. have been supported by SABN, for an Annual Service “Supporting the St Albans City and District of Remembrance and Thanksgiving. The excellent Bereavement Network means more people, especially response to previous gatherings has demonstrated the children, will be helped through very difficult times and need for these occasions, and the funding will allow for 1695 ad 130 90mm_1695 Rollings HGaad 130 xto90mm service be held17/04/2012 in November12:49 2012. Page 2 we are Rollings pleased toHG support thisx work. ”

A broad, balanced curriculum is well taught and inspiring, producing an excellent record of exam success. This year pupils have been awarded a record 23 scholarships to a wide range of senior schools. Bursaries are available for entry in Year 7. The sports facilities are excellent; the variety of sports on offer means there is something for everyone. Music provision is second to none. Workshops and concerts occur regularly. The school is well-served by a network of school buses from several locations and benefits from a uniquely beautiful setting in an eighteenth century mansion.

Try our brand new ‘state of the art’ wine tasting experience! • Visit our NEW tasting cellar! • Over 400 wines from around the world • FREE local delivery • Glasses loan available • Regular offers, tastings and newsletters • Sale or return facility • Vintage ports and Colheita ports • Wines to suit every budget!

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Next Open Mornings: October 19th 2012 and February 15th 2013. Please come and visit. The Headmaster, Patrick Atkinson, is also always happy to meet prospective parents at other times. Please view the website at

www.beechwoodpark.herts.sch.uk

Meet Clare from CRAFTY GOATES

The product range is extensive but is broken down into the following categories.

• Name plaques • Pegs • Mirrors • Canvasses • Clocks • Letters • Children’s furniture • Murals painted directly onto bedroom walls Also included is a range of smaller items; these include trinket boxes, pencil sharpeners and boxes, piggy banks, name tags and key rings (perfect stocking fillers!)

SA Law Partner, Marilyn Bell Awarded with Prestigious Children Law Accreditation. Marilyn Bell has been recognised by The Law Society with The Children Law Accreditation for the third time due to her exceptional knowledge and expertise in family law matters involving children. The Children Law Accreditation has become a recognised quality standard in the UK for those seeking legal advice when relationships involving children break down. In order to achieve this membership of excellence, solicitors undergo an independent assessment to demonstrate their experience in public and private law proceedings under the Children Act 1989. Achieving and maintaining this accreditation is testament to Marilyn’s high level of knowledge, skills and practice in Children Law. As the leading family law team in Hertfordshire, SA Law’s Family department advises clients on all family matters including children’s residence orders and contact orders, separation, divorce and financial matters.

Clare Goates, a local artist, started the business Crafty Goates about seven years ago. She studied Art to A level, achieving an A grade, and has had work exhibited by the University of Cambridge (one of her items was selected for their 1991 Calendar.)

For more information about Children Law and how SA Law’s family team can help you, visit ww.salaw.com

Clare has recently discovered that artistic talent is in her blood; her great grandfather, Joe Juster, was a leading painter at a well known ceramics factory. The factory was founded by William de Morgan during the Arts and Crafts movement in the second half of the 19th and beginning of the 20thcentury. De Morgan was a great friend of William Morris who influenced much of his early design work; items from this factory are highly sought after by collectors and in an exhibition at the Royal Academy (Andrew Lloyd Webber’s collection of pre Raphaelite art) there were five pieces attributed to Joe Juster. Crafty Goates’ products are lovingly made (by Clare’s father Keith) and then beautifully painted in a range of attractive background colours with unique design themes over painted; from butterflies to princesses or space rockets to footballers, there is a theme to suit every child!

So, if you are thinking ahead to Christmas and want a truly unique and personal gift for a child give Crafty Goates a try! They can be found at local craft fairs and toddler groups, or online at www.craftygoates. co.uk. (Keith and Clare would love to bring their products to the High Street and are trying to find a suitable retail outlet in the area that would be willing to sell their products on a sale or return basis.)

Since all items are individually hand painted, customers have the choice of mixing and matching both colours and designs to suit their requirements and to match room décor. Likewise, most items can be personalised or have other text included as required.

You can contact Clare or Keith on 01442 244291/ craftygoates@aol.com;they are very accommodating and will be delighted to receive enquiries and provide quotes; once an order is placed, finished items can normally be supplied within 7 to10 days.

Marilyn Bell Partner 01727 798000 marilyn.bell@salaw.com SA Law, 60 London Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1NG

Herts Visual Arts jo in s th e yea r of c e l e b ra tions !

By opening studio doors, and inviting you to see art in action, this three week event gives you a great opportunity to interact with the artists - talking about their work, the inspiration and creativity behind it. Herts Open Studios showcases all artistic mediums from painters practising in oil, acrylic and, watercolour, to ceramics, jewellery, photography - both digital and film; glass artists, fused to stained and everything in-between, sculptures and engravers, calligraphy to graffiti, printmakers, artists of textiles and fashion creators. Stained glass artist Mike Caddy of Vitreus Art comments;“We enjoy taking parting in Open Studios as it gives us a chance to find out what people think of our new stained glass work. We also like the chance to show visitors how stained glass is made often they’re surprised at how much time and work goes into each piece.”

Hertfordshire Artists welcome you to join them in their studios during this artistic extravaganza! Artists across Hertfordshire invite you to join them in their studios during the Herts Open Studios which this year runs from 8th to the 30th September. “Support local talented artists, and designer-makers. This year over 160 artists are waiting to greet you when you visit them in their studios and workshop - 3 glorious weeks of art on your doorstep”, comments Linda Warminger, Herts Open Studios Project Manager

Herts Visual Arts members range from the professional to the passionate amateur - all equally keen for you enjoy their artwork. Come and see a selection of members work, including many Open Studios participants, at an Art Exhibition and Sale at Harpenden Public Halls on 1st and 2nd September. FACILITIES • • • • • • • • • •

With 2012 bringing us the Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics, this surely is a year of celebration - culminating with the greatest local artistic event of the year - Herts Open Studios! If you enjoy the visual arts, then this event is certainly for you - it’s a great time to get up-close and personal! You’ll see art work by local artists showcasing their latest creative endeavours and witnessing artwork in the making! It’s always difficult for artists to know the best way of taking their art to the public. Galleries are great, small private shows are good too, but what better way for artists to connect with you than welcoming you into their working space? Artists’ studios are not normally accessible to the general public, but during Herts Open Studios you are positively encouraged to come in and see what happens during the creative process...you may even get to have a go! 34

We look forward to welcoming you

Don’t forget - Herts Open Studios runs from 8th to the 30th September, go online (www.hvaf.org.uk) for further details about Herts Open Studios or the Art Exhibition and Sale in Harpenden, or contact Linda Warminger on 07813 100651 openstudios@hvaf.org.uk to find out more about the other benefits and opportunities of being part of Herts Visual Arts.

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St Albans District Credit Union joins advice and information centre

Councillor Julian Daly, Executive Leader of St Albans City and District Council and Portfolio Holder for Resources, said: “The advice and information centre goes from strength to strength with the arrival of St Albans District Credit Union. Residents can now receive guidance about their finances as well as advice on a range of other issues from one single location.We hope that this service will make it easier for people to access information and advice when they have a problem.”

Residents can now receive help with their finances at the advice and information centre based at St Albans City and District Council. The St Albans District Credit Union has begun to provide financial guidance and information at the centre every Wednesday, from 10am to 1pm. The St Albans District Credit Union is a not-forprofit community organisation run by volunteers and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. It provides savings accounts for deposits of up to £10,000 and affordable loans of up to £5,000 to people living or working in Hertfordshire who become members.

Arthur Chapman, a director at St Albans District Credit Union, said: “Joining the advice and information centre means that we will be able to provide more people with support and guidance about money and finances. This is particularly important during these troubled economic times.We are able to offer loans and savings accounts at competitive rates of interest to everyone in the community.This includes providing loans for the homeless so that they can fund deposits on rented homes in the private sector.”

The advice and information centre opened in November last year offering a range of services all in one place. Oaklands College, St Albans District Citizens Advice Bureau, theVolunteer Centre and the Council all provide advice, guidance and information at the centre.

The advice and information centre is located in the Council’s offices at the Civic Centre in St Peter’s Street, St Albans. More information about the services available at the centre, including daily opening hours, is available at www.stalbans.gov.uk/CivicCentre or by calling on 01727 819500.

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Transfer of East Lane car park & adjoining la nd a g reed. St Albans City and District Council is to transfer ownership of East Lane car park and adjoining land to Wheathampstead Parish Council, subject to an agreed contract. The Parish Council is considering extending the car park onto the adjoining land to provide more space for visitors to the village. The Parish Council already leases the car park from the Council. The District Council is currently encouraging Town and Parish Councils to take on ownership of local assets as part of a strategy to put localism into practice. This follows the implementation of the Localism Act by the Government last year. The act aims to let communities have greater control over public assets in their area and to take on additional responsibilities for the management of local services. Councillor Beric Read, Portfolio Holder for Community Engagement and Localism at St Albans City and District Council, said, “The Council has received a number of approaches from Town and Parish Councils to transfer assets. We have already transferred ownership of Batford Springs nature reserve, Lyddekker Park and carpark, Porters Hill Recreation Ground and Westfield Recreation Ground to Harpenden Town Council. We are currently talking to St Stephen, Sandridge and London Colney Parish Councils about the transfer of further assets.” Councillor David Johnston, Chair of Wheathampstead Parish Council, said, “We are delighted that the District Council has agreed to transfer the car park and adjacent land to us for expansion. Our High Street’s survival depends heavily on us being able to attract people into the village and without suitable car parking this would be impossible. 38

“The transfer has lots of benefits for our community. Our Heritage Trail is attracting visitors and we anticipate Heartwood Forest will have a similar effect in the coming years. We are also getting an increasing number of walkers who take advantage of the beautiful countryside. We will now be able to increase parking capacity as demand to visit our village grows. “By having a vibrant High Street and easy parking we will be able to encourage residents in rural areas to come to the village rather than travelling further afield for their shopping.”

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Five Harpenden schoolboys successfully complete gruelling 60-mile cycle ride in the rain to raise money for their World Challenge Expedition

when even the pouring rain couldn’t dampen their mood as they reached the finish.”

Pupils from Sir John Lawes school in Harpenden raised money for their World Challenge Expedition (August 2013) with a sponsored cycle ride. The five Year10 boys successfully completed their ride along the Grand Union Canal despite horrendous weather conditions and a waterlogged course. Accompanied by two parents, they left from Boxmoor to ride 30 miles north and back to raise money for their 2013 expedition. Despite quite good weather in the middle section they returned to a huge welcome as the light was failing at about 9pm. Having cycled the last 1 ½ hours in a downpour, they arrived exhausted, wet through, covered in mud and yet still smiling at having successfully completed their challenge together. Because of the weather, track conditions and some punctures (one even before loading the van to leave Harpenden), the ride took longer than anticipated. Herb Harris, one of the parents who also cycled with the boys, said, “Because of the weather conditions the ride was much more demanding than anticipated. It took longer than expected and in places the waterlogged course was very challenging and slow, like cycling through long grass in a field. Nevertheless the boys did themselves proud and maintained their team spirit and determination to the end.” Another parent, Hillary Taylor, said, “Fitness is just one element of their expedition training, and they must raise all expedition costs themselves. They decided on this sponsored cycle ride to combine the two. Their training and team spirit certainly paid off on Saturday, 42

World Challenge organises world-wide expeditions for young people. These boys are taking part in a 4-week educational and developmental expedition to Romania, Bosnia, Croatia and Montenegro in August 2013. It will involve a challenging 14-day trek, running a sports day for a Romanian school and also creating pathways/signs on mountain sides to slow down erosion of the land. It is a demanding expedition that will significantly benefit the local community and also teach valuable life skills such as leadership, communication, team working. Alex Shacklock, Jacob Robinson, Jacob Taylor-Hansen, James Harris and Will Greaves are part of a larger expedition team from Sir John Lawes School. In December 2011 they pledged to work together for fundraising to reach the total cost of their expedition, over £3,000 each. They have already served cakes, refreshments, designed/sold school bags, run fete stands at local events and one of the team held a sponsored haircut.This cycle ride was another part in their fundraising activities. They are appealing for sponsors for their fundraising efforts for World Challenge. To pledge your support, please contact Hillary Taylor (hillary.taylor@iee.org) on 07939 478 466. On-line and BACS transfer donations are also possible, with options for joint PR or other recognition of support. For Will’s Challenge blog, see http://willgreavesworldchallengefund.blogspot.co.uk/ For Jacob’s Challenge blog, see http://jacobsworldchallengeblog.wordpress.com/

NOW BOOKING! We are now taking bookings for the Harpenden Annual Directory.

20,000

copies distributed, door to door in Harpenden, Redbourn & Wheathampstead. Starting January 2013

TO SECURE YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE

CALL 01582 469117 or email:

info@harpendendirectory.co.uk 43

Back to school, back to the old routine? By Erica Spencer Green

The summer holidays are all but over and you’re looking at returning to your usual pattern of after school children’s’ activities, lark-early alarm calls and the regimented routine required to squeeze everything else into the nano second between school runs. Well why not try something different? You could give yourself the best start to the autumn term by overhauling your health regime. It’s a fabulous time of year for another lifestyle shuffle as you’re probably already eating lighter meals and getting out and about more with the sunnier weather. Here’s the plan: The first thing to do is to take stock, just as the kids do when preparing for school to start up again. Have you got everything you need; your timetable, equipment check list, uniform etc? For children it’s a little easier as they all need pretty much the same things but for you it’s a more interesting task as you get the chance to tailor-make your plan of action. Starting with a timetable: Using your diary, or a calendar, start putting in all the necessary events and appointments for the next month or term so that you have a clear idea of where your “you time” exists. Next make a list of what you’d like to do with that precious time; learn tennis, paint, join a book club etc. At this point I need to jump in and double check that your lists definitely include exercising of some sort as we’re all urged to do at least 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise 5 to 7 times a week for optimal health benefits. It might sound a lot but it is achievable with some planning and forethought. Now get out and source where and how you’re going to access these interests, make enquiries to see if any will fit in with your timetable or if you can perhaps host activities so as to be more convenient to your schedule. Now, when you glance at your calendar or diary, you’ll see it peppered with the fun and fulfilling things you’ve chosen to enrich your week. 44

Next the uniform: We’ve no doubt all had issue at one time or another surrounding uniforms! Revel in being an adult as now you get to choose your get up! It really is important to select good quality fitness footwear and clothing before you begin. If you’re going to start jogging or joining a body conditioning class you’ll need a good pair of trainers e.g. Asics or New Balance (if your current pair are more than two years old then you’ll need to invest in a new pair) which will offer your feet good support and cushioning which in turn will protect all of your joints up through the body. Following on, you’ll also need good support underwear for any high impact activities and some cool, comfortable and breathable fitness wear in general. Equipment anyone?: The next check is a stock take. For example, you could raid the shed, attic and/or garage to see what retro exercise apparatus lurks in the shadows. If you’re thinking of investing in some new equipment such as Dyna-bands and Swiss balls (so that you can exercise at home, the office or outdoors) then please feel free to ask as there are so many products out there some of which are just poorly designed gimmicks and others which will last you a long and healthy lifetime.Also, you need very little to achieve a lot so long as it’s the right bit of kit for you. So now you’re pretty much set, timetable looks exciting and appealing, uniform is enticing for the first time ever and your satchel and sharp pencil equivalents will look all shiny and new … of course no-one likes brand spanking new trainers but don’t worry as once you’ve been out in them a couple of times they’ll look more tried and tested! Here’s to a new school year … Mondays never have to be a nightmare again!

The Barn Theatre The Barn Theatre, situated in Welwyn Garden City’s Handside Lane, has been in existence for 80 years on the site of an old Barn. It is well known for producing high quality non-professional plays; modern drama, farce, comedy, Shakespeare and Pantomime all feature in the Barn’s season. With a thriving membership of 600, including two youth groups, it has a genuine warm, theatrical feel to it. The theatre is run by enthusiastic volunteers who ensure the ten plays, performed each season from September to July, are to a very high standard. Whether it’s on stage, backstage, front of house or box office, there are opportunities for all to take part. The auditorium seats 145 and whilst not the London Palladium is very comfortable and welcoming. Sets are made in the workshop; props and stage furniture are sourced from the Barn’s own stores whilst the costumes, which can be hired out, come from the self contained Festival Costumes department. During the season the theatre is a hive of activity, with one show each month there are usually two or three plays rehearsing at any one time; rehearsals take place in one of the two rehearsal rooms or on the stage whilst the set takes shape. During the season the theatre is a hive of activity, with one show each month there are usually two or three plays rehearsing at any one time; rehearsals take place in one of the two rehearsal rooms or on the stage whilst the set takes shape. Each play runs for nine performances starting with a member’s night on Friday and ending the following Saturday when there is usually a matinee performance. A whole army of people help run each production and without them shows could not be performed. Backstage, lighting, sound, Box Office, front of house managers and stewards are all an integral part of the show team. Part of the Barn theatrical experience is to have a drink in the quaint, welcoming bar, staffed by volunteers. You can be assured of a good evening’s entertainment when visiting the Barn!

ANNUAL DIRECTORY 2013 NOW BOOKING!

20,000 copies delivered through the doors of residents in Harpenden, Wheathampstead & Redbourn from January 2013

Call NOW to reserve your space today!

Tel: 01582 469117 or email:

They are always looking for more people to join them. For more information go to www.barntheatre.co.uk 45

info@harpendendirectory.co.uk

DorkyMum’s brilliant blog explaining

is like…

I was out for coffee the other day with a non-tweeting friend. “So what’s Twitter actually like?” she asked. I ummed and ahhed, and explained it all very badly, mumbling some fairly dry stuff about retweets and hashtags and follows. She didn’t look convinced. So I’ve been thinking about it ever since, and here’s what I’ve come up with. Joining Twitter is like suddenly discovering an extra room in your house. You’re just walking from your kitchen to your living room one evening and you notice a door that you’ve never opened before.You decide to turn the handle and have a look. You open the door, step into the room, and it’s as though you’ve just arrived at a really busy party. In one corner of the room are a group of people you’ve known for years. “Hurray!” they say. “Here’s DorkyMum! We’ve been wondering where you were.” You start to walk over to them, and notice they’ve already bought you a pint of your favourite beer. Brilliant.You love this room already. But then something catches your eye. Look! It’s the woman who wrote that book you loved when you were a kid! Wow.You wonder what she’s doing here.You raise your hand, a bit shy and nervous, and to your relief she smiles and gives you a big cheery wave in response. You’re about to wander over and speak to her, but as you turn, you get stopped in your tracks by another group of people. You don’t know any of their names, although a couple of them look vaguely familiar. “Hey!” one of them says. “We read on your blog that you’re a big fan of obscure Scottish folk music. Come over here and listen to this.” 46

So over you go, and you stand in the corner for a few minutes, swaying away and tapping your foot to a brilliant track that you’ve not heard before. The group of people are all really friendly; you discover that you have some other interests in common too. One of them likes photography, and another has a son the same age as you.You feel pretty comfortable, and think you could probably just hang out in this corner of the room for a while. But wait! There’s your MP! He’s a crabby old Tory bastard, and you’re not too sure what he’s doing at this party, but you really want to speak to him about a Save the Children campaign that you’re involved with, so you tear yourself away from the music and chase him across the room for a chat. Eventually the room starts to grow a little quieter, and you decide that you’ve had enough for one night; that you should probably get some sleep. So you wave goodbye to everyone and head off to bed, closing the door to the room carefully behind you. The next morning when you wake up, you fully expect the room to be gone. But guess what? It’s still there. In fact, it’s there every morning from now on. Some days, you get up and you’ve not had enough sleep, so you’re grumpy and bleary eyed. You poke your head into the room, scowling, and you snarl at the assembled company. A few of them snarl back, because they’ve had a bad night too. But then one person offers to make you a coffee, and someone else holds up a picture of a really cute kitten, which forces you to crack your face into a smile. Some days you wake up, and you’ve already got too much noise in your head, and you’ve got lots of jobs to do, so you don’t go near the room at all.The door stays firmly shut. Other days you get up, head for breakfast in your

kitchen, turn on the radio, and catch the last bar of an old song you really like. Damn, what was that song called? You can’t even remember who sang it. So you poke your head into the extra room, and shout out “Hey! Does anyone know what that song was that was just playing on the radio?” “Sure!” calls someone standing over on the left. “It was The Dorky Song, by the Dorkys.” Someone standing over on the right shouts out “I’ve always loved the Dorkys!” Then at the back of the room an old crackled voice pipes up, “Ahh, thank you for all the love guys. I was the drummer with the Dorkys!” Everyone in the room cheers. Occasionally, you’ll be standing in the room chatting, and you’ll hear raised voices and then a scuffle will break out in a far corner. Someone has had one-toomany glasses of wine and said something offensive. “Idiot,” you can hear people muttering under their breaths, as the offender is hustled out of a side door until he calms down. Sometimes you’re in there, and it’s as though everyone is high. There’s big news on the way, and the vibe is crazy. There’s a real buzz in the air.You’re really supposed to be somewhere else, but you can’t tear yourself away. If you never find this room in your house – the extra room – it’s okay. You really like your house anyway. It’s comfy, and cosy, and full of lovely things. You don’t ever feel like you’re missing out on something, because you don’t know otherwise. But if – when – you do find it, a whole new world of opportunities and possibilities and connections opens up. It’s crazy. But it’s kinda fun. That’s what Twitter is like.

You can follow Dorkymum and us on Twitter: @DorkyMum, @YourLocalMedia 47

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue work experience scheme launched in Harpenden The week culminated in the students giving a short presentation about what they learnt to representatives from HFRS, the Chamber of Commerce, Sir John Lawes School and the Deputy Mayor of Harpenden, Councillor Rosemary Farmer. Following this their proud parents watched as they were presented with a certificate by Darryl Keen, Fire and Rescue Service Assistant Chief Officer.

Students from a Harpenden school were given the chance to learn about Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) first-hand as part of a new work experience scheme. Six pupils from the Sir John Lawes School took part in a pilot work experience scheme at Harpenden Fire Station. Organised by HFRS’s Youth Engagement team, the scheme’s aim was to help the students understand HFRS’s day-to-day work.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the students to engage with key members of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue,” said Richard Thake, Cabinet Member for Community Safety.“They will face exciting challenges throughout the week and will learn a number of skills, which they can utilise in the future, whichever career path they choose to take. Although, this is a new scheme and Harpenden Fire Station are the pioneers, it is hoped that stations across the county will initiate similar projects in the near future.”

Councillor Mrs Linacre said ‘I was delighted with the response to my first charity event and the support for my two nominated local charities. I would like to thank all the businesses in Harpenden that kindly provided raffle prizes and have shown their support. It is much appreciated and helps to raise important funds for the charities. Over £900 was raised on Friday night.’

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Guest speakers - like Fire Investigation Officer, Dave Stokes, and CC the fire investigation dog and his handler Nikki Harvey – explained their roles and Youth Connexions held an‘interview skills’ workshop.

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In addition, the 15-year-olds enjoyed some “hands-on” learning with visits to Command and Control in Stevenage, where 999 calls are received, and St Albans Fire Station’s smoke house.

The Quiz Night was well supported and it was great fun. The Quizmaster, Ginny, is very popular in Harpenden and is herself a dedicated charity fundraiser. It was a lovely community event.

Sky Ride Local, the popular programme of friendly community-led cycle rides, started on Sunday 15th July; the bike rides will take place every Sunday until midOctober. With British Cycling-trained Ride Leaders on hand to offer encouragement and support, it’s a great way to get out and explore local areas. Registration is free and open now for rides already taking place in St Albans, Watford and Dacorum districts. More rides are being added all the time, so families, friends and groups can check out the dates and details of rides taking place. Rides vary in levels, from beginners to experienced cyclists, so everyone can pick a level to suit their skills and enjoyment. This year there are new ride levels to excite and challenge, including some tougher rides and new off-road rides at all levels. St Albans City and District Council works with Hertfordshire County Council under its BIG HERTS BIG IDEAS initiative to deliver Sky Ride Local rides. Sky Ride Local is provided by British Cycling and Sky. For more information visit www.goskyride.com

THE CARPENTERS ARMS

The week was run with the help of community volunteers, the Harpenden retained crew and Hertfordshire County Council’s Learning and Organisational Development Team.

In addition, the 15-year-olds enjoyed some “hands-on” learning with visits to Command and Control in Stevenage, where 999 calls are received, and St Albans Fire Station’s smoke house.

Sky Ride Local – free, fun, friendly bike rides in St Albans

Harpenden Town Mayor’s Quiz Night raises over £900 for local charities!

CALL TONY OR MARIA ON

01582 460311

14 Cravells Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 1BD

Call 01582 469117 or email: tony@65highstreet.co.uk www.65highstreet.co.uk 49

Success for Harpenden and St Albans Bloggers at National Blog Awards

A Harpenden blogger is celebrating this week after she was chosen to read out a keynote speech at an awards ceremony that celebrated the best of the UK’s Best Parent blogs; and two St Albans bloggers are celebrating after winning their categories at the event Lisa Pearson’s blog Mummy Whisperer and Emily Quinton’s blog The Start Up Wife were both winners at the BritMums Brilliance in Blogging Awards, which took place in London last weekend.Television presenter Katy Hill presented them with their awards. Ruth Dawkins, who blogs as DorkyMum, was selected from thousands of bloggers to take part in the closing event and read out one of her own posts in front of an audience of 500 people, which included fellow BBC TV presenter Cherry Healey.

A friendly, family run business since 1979

Lisa won the Inspire category, which recognises bloggers who have been an inspiration to their community over the last year.The judge of Lisa’s category said “I loved reading this blog and it proved, if proof is needed, the key to a brilliant blog can be as simple as engaging, heartfelt and funny updates. Packed with personality, it is laugh-out-loud funny, which combined with great navigation and an enticing design, makes it a real winner.” Lisa said:“I was so chuffed to win this category because I was up against amazing women and the judge said such lovely things about my blog. My blog is a mixture of stories about the ups and downs of my life as a Mum and hints and tips for Mums to enjoy their lives more. I love writing it, and love even more when I hear from Mums to say that I’ve helped them get more sparkle back into their lives. I believe Mums are incredibly important in our society, but often overlooked, so with my blog and book I’m hoping to give them their confidence back.” Emily won the Snap category, which recognizes the best photography bloggers.The judge of Emily’s category said she had been impressed by the “quality of the photographs, the continuity and the aesthetics.” Emily said:“I’m thrilled to win this award from BritMums for the photography on my blog and to feel a real part of the parent blogging community.” At the end of the event, Ruth was one of twelve bloggers who had been selected to read a piece of writing from her own blog.The post - a beginners guide to Twitter - was very well received (you can read it here) http:// dorkymum.wordpress.com/2012/05/16/twitter-is-like/ . BBC TV presenter Cherry Healey, who was at the event, said “This is such a fabulous post.You are amazing. I laughed my a*** off.” Lisa’s blog Mummy Whisperer can be found online at: http://mummywhispererblog.com/ Emily’s blog The Start Up Wife can be found online at: http://thestartupwife.co.uk Ruth’s blog DorkyMum can be found online at http://dorkymum.wordpress.com

Email: glyngriffithsggj@aol.com

Panto producer Chris Law said “Jessica is going to be fantastic – she has a great singing voice, is a wonderful actress, and looks fabulous on stage, she will make the perfect ‘Alice”

Harpenden local girl gets starring role opposite TV celebrities!

Featuring fantastic songs, a fabulous live band, sumptuous sets, sensational costumes, the corniest of jokes and bags of audience participation, Dick Whittington is the perfect way to kick start your festive season! ----------------------------------------------------------------------

DICK WHITTINGTON

the fun-filled, laughter-packed family pantomime Starring:

CERRIE BURNELL (CBeebies)

and PETER PURVES

(Dr Who companion and Blue Peter legend )

with hilarious panto dame Richard Aucott and full supporting cast. Including local dance school the Sarah Andrews Dance Academy Will Dick find the streets paved with gold? Will he win the hand of the lovely Alice?

Dick Whittington

Eric Morecambe Theatre, Harpenden Public Halls 15th – 22nd December 2012

Will he and our lovely Fairy defeat the evil King Rat?

Local Harpenden girl Jessica Pegram has been asked to play the lead role of ‘Alice’ in Harpenden’s panto this Christmas, starring opposite TVs Cerrie Burnell and Peter Purves.

Find out this Christmas! This year’s pantomime has 12 performances and runs from Saturday 15th of December to Saturday 22nd of December 2012. Tickets are priced from £10.00. Group discounts available – ask for details.Tickets are now on sale, and are going fast!

Jessica may only be 17, but she has already appeared in a number of productions, including the successful ‘West Side Story’ (recently at the Public Halls produced by Empire Arts) and is really looking forward to working with Cerrie and Peter in panto at the halls this Christmas.

To book tickets contact the Box Office on: 01582 767525 or alternatively book online at www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

“To get to work with the lovely Cerrie Burnell, who is so very popular with children thanks to CBeebies, and with the legend that is Peter Purves – well, what can I say! - I am honoured! This is a great experience and is going to be a really great pantomime”

(Pic shows Jessica Pegram as Alice Fitzwarren in Dick Whittington)

---------------------------------------------------------------------For further information, to arrange interviews, etc please contact Sam Coot, Marketing Manager, Harpenden Public Halls on 01582 762880 hphmarketing@leisureconnection.co.uk OR Chris Law, Producer, Act One Pantomimes: chris@actonepantomimes.co.uk

Jessica attended Roundwood Park School, and works as part of the team helping children learn performance skills at Harpenden’s Stagecoach. 52

Kids Halloween Fun! dot to dot

COMPETITION WINNERS! Thank you to everyone that entered our competition to win copies of The Best Of Times by John Seabrook. As usual we have had a lot of entries but as you know there can only be three winners and I have the pleasure of announcing them.

The Plough and Harrow Music Quiz Every Thursday Live Band Every Saturday General Knowledge Quiz Every Sunday

Mrs V R Burnett – Harpenden

Homemade Food Fantastic Kids play area

Mrs P Webber – St Albans

Mon - Sun - 12pm-2.30pm

B. Comery – Harpenden

Christmas Party Bookings now being taken! Book Now to Avoid Disappointment!

Congratulations to you all. Your copy of the book will sent out shortly. Enter this edition’s competition on page 86 for the chance to win a £250 voucher kindly donated by

Come and join the fun!

Harpenden Skin Clinic 2 Thompson Close, Harpenden, Herts AL5 4ES Tel: 01582 462223 www.harpendenskinclinic.com 54

88 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts

Tel:www.ploughandharrow.co.uk 01582 715844 55

The Perfect Halloween Pumpkin! Things You’ll Need.

Newspaper, Pumpkin, Felt-tip Pen or pencil, Sharp Knife, Tea Light. 1.

Select a fresh pumpkin in a shape that pleases you. Some people prefer their pumpkins low and round, while others like them tall and oval-shaped but it’s up to you.

Draw a circle or hexagon on the top of the pumpkin in preparation for making an opening large enough for your hand to reach through.

Cut through the stem end of the pumpkin along your outline with a sharp knife. Use a back-and-forth slicing motion to cut through the thick, tough skin.

4. Remove the stem end, which will act as a lid, making sure you scrape off any seeds or pulp on to the newspaper. 5.

Use a large spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp from inside the pumpkin.

Remember, Remember the 5th of November!! Firework Code Top ten safety tips for adults Young people should watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance and follow the safety rules. Only adults should deal with firework displays and the lighting of fireworks. They should also take care of the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used. 1. Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable. 2. Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time. 3. Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary. 4. Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back. 5. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks. 6. Never return to a firework once it has been lit. 7. Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them. 8. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators. 9. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire. 10.

6. After you have emptied out the insides, draw a pattern for the face with a felt-tip pen, or scribe the lines into the skin using a pencil. Make sure to make the eyes, nose and mouth large enough to get the full effect later. 7.

Follow your pattern as you cut all the way through the pumpkin.

Push the cut-out features gently from the inside of the pumpkin and discard the pieces.

Place a tea light inside the pumpkin to create an eerie glow.

10.

Stand back and admire your handy work! 56

Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

St Albans ---------------------------3rd Nov - Firework Display Verulamium Park, St Albans. The largest public display in the south of England, this veritable panoply of pyrotechnic craft is organised by St Albans Cathedral in aid of local charities. Box office Tel: 01727 844488 Sun 4th Nov - Firework Display Butterfly World Come to Butterfly World and enjoy our fantastic firework display. Free parking, food and drink stalls, fireworks and music synchronised for a perfect evening’s entertainment. Gates open at 5.00pm, display starts at 6.30pm Tickets £5. Please visit www.butterflyworldproject.com Redbourn ----------------------------

Local Firework Displays

Sat 3rd Nov - Firework Display Redbourn Common. The fun starts at 6.30pm, Stalls & raffle etc, with the display taking place at 7pm. Redbourn Common, between The Cricketers Pub and the War Memorial. Come along and join in the fun!

Harpenden --------------------------Sun 4th Nov - Harpenden Rugby Club Redbourn Lane, Harpenden AL5 2BA 3pm onwards. Tickets Family £20 Adult £8 Child £5

Hatfield -----------------------------Sat 10th Nov - Crabtree School Crabtree Lane, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 5PU Advance Ticket Prices £6 (under 5s free), Family ticket (2+2) £20; available at Cook, Rollings Wine Shop, Thorns, New4U, Savills (Harpenden), Shop by the Park (Batford end of Station Road), Stage Door (Southdown) Fuchsia Pink (Wheathampstead) and other local shops (look out for posters).Ticket prices on gate £7 per person or Family ticket (2+2) £25

Hatfield House Mon 3rd Nov - Fireworks Display Hatfield House. This year’s fireworks display will be in support of the Welwyn Hatfield Mayor’s charities, which are Home Start and Dogs for the Disabled. QE Oak Field Gates open at 5pm, bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm. Tickets Adults £6, Children £3 For more information call 01707 357117 or visit www.hatfield-house.co.uk 57

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Training

Dog training is a term used to describe two different activities firstly to teach him to do something he would not do on his own and secondly to discourage him from behaviours he would do but which we may find unacceptable. With training we are able to modify some of these behaviours, however we must be aware when choosing a dog that they all have different natural instincts so it is up to us to understand our dog and let him be ‘a dog’. C

As soon as you have got puppy home it is essential that you introduce him to as many things as possible that will play a role in his future life. Allow him to explore, meet as many different people as possible.

Expose him to different sounds in a controlled way for example have a hoover on in the back ground, engine noise, moving a wheelie bin etc, all those things we take for granted but for a puppy could be alarming. Consider having a bed for your puppy down by your feet rather than having him on the sofa on your lap. Remember he is going to grow up and will you want him to sit on you when he is fully grown! So much can influence your dog from a very early age and how it will behave in later life, so as soon as your dog has completed its course of vaccinations enrol on a puppy foundation course that will cover all the basic behaviours you would expect from a good training programme .The fun you will have together will form a bond for life. For information on courses please call Susie of Leadership Dog Training on 07884051313 or email: info@leadershipdogtraining.co.uk

Leadership DOG TRAINING

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Contact: Susie Fazakerley (IMDT Qualified) Tel: 07884 051313 Email: info@leadershipdogtraining.co.uk Web: www.leadershipdogtrainingschool.co.uk

Wash and Blow Dry Mini Groom Full Groom Nail Clipping Organic Grooming Products

Day Care Dog Walking Overnight Holiday Care

The Barns, Thompsons Close, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 4ES

01582 462713

info@doggy-day.co.uk www.doggy-day.co.uk

From then he has produced some truly impressive pieces of cinematography that will last for generations to come. These include Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Blade Runner and American Gangster. His new film, the eagerly awaited Robin Hood, was released in 2010, and hopefully A Brave New World In the foreseeable future.

2 0 1 2

FARMER’S MARKETS

ST ALBANS

Film Guide 2012 by Chris Jelf.

2nd Sunday of the month

14th October

After hearing the recent hysteria regarding Ridley Scott’s alleged adaptation of Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’, in which Leonardo DiCaprio is set to star as Bernard Marx, I could not help but get excited. It is a spine chilling, gut wrenching and realistic portrayal of how future society might consequentially result, as a product of rapid technological advancement. If there is any director in the World who can cope with the monumental task of producing such a film, it is Sir Ridley Scott. His very title, received for services to British film industry, reflects what an asset he is to British film making and global film production. Ridley was raised in Tyne and Wear, in a town called South Shields in North East England, his choice of the film industry was unusual considering his family had a deep rooted military background. Following the end of his degree, he enrolled with the BBC as a trainee set designer, where his admiration for Stanley Kubrick (A Clockwork Orange,The Shining and Spartacus) grew. Scott left the BBC in 1968 and set up Ridley Scott Associates Production Company. His first feature film was ‘The Duellists’ in 1977, a film about two French soldier’s rocky relationship during the Napoleonic Wars. Although it won Best debut film medal at the Cannes Film festival it made no impact on the US film industry. His next film ‘Alien’ won him international recognition in 1979. 60

21st October

HARPENDEN 4th Sunday of the month

28th October

10am - 1pm East Lane Car Park

10am - 2pm Lower High Street

11th November

18th November

25th November

9th December

Director’s profile - Sir Ridley Scott

3rd Sunday of the month

8am - 2pm City Centre

Schindler’s List is a heart wrenching masterpiece about the Holocaust and one individuals attempt to defy it. It is at the receiving end of 7 Oscars, this in itself explains the sheer brilliance of this monumental piece of cinematography. Schindler’s List is not just a film, it is a life lesson. The film is based around Oskar Schindler, who saves over a thousand Polish Jews lives by employing them through his factories whilst bribing SS officials to maintain their safety. Liam Neeson plays Oskar Schindler - a wealthy opportunist who seeks to profiteer from the manufacturing industry through the War. His character gains respectability through his sheer determination and perseverance to defy the dictatorial state. Alongside him is ruthless SS Lieutenant Amon Goth played by Ralph Fiennes . Fiennes is massively convincing at depicting the brutality of the hierarchical structure of the Third Reich, even following orders to liquidate remaining Jews when liberation is inevitable. Schindler’s Jewish advisor is Itzhak Stern, a member of the Jewish council in Krakow, played by Ben Kingsley. The majority of Schindler’s List is filmed in Black and white, however small glimpses of colour such as the young girl’s bright red coat (also used later to identify her body) are effective instruments that display the excruciating enormity of the tragedy. Schindler’s List is directed by the Steven Spielberg, and is so finely made and authentic that he can entice the viewer to watch themes of death, destruction and degradation for over 3 hours. Schindler’s List should be made part of the school curriculum! A must watch.

WHEATHAMPSTEAD

10am - 1pm East Lane Car Park

12noon - 6pm Lower High Street

8am - 2pm City Centre

10am - 1pm East Lane Car Park

16th December

23rd December

For further information Please call

For further information Please visit

For further information Please call

01727 836 781 www.stalbans.gov.uk

01727 819 452

www.wheathampstead.net

10am - 2pm Lower High Street

01582 768 278

www.harpenden.gov.uk

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Live Music “Cry Wolf” at The Plough & Harrow, 88 Southdown Road, Harpenden. Tel 01582 715844. www.ploughandharrow.co.uk FREE Event

SAT - SUN

6 -7 th

SATURDAY

MON - SAT

SATURDAY

8 -13

TUESDAY

SATURDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT - SUN

6 -7 th

FRIDAY

SUNDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

SATURDAY

MONDAY

What’s On OCTOBER SATURDAY

SUNDAY

SATURDAY

th SUNDAY

SATURDAY

MON - TUE

15 -16 th

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

SUNDAY

WED - SUN

17 -21 th

Weekly Redbourn Water Mill Clubs Sunday afternoon - Redbournbury Rock Choir (contemporary pop, Lane, Redbourn Road, St Albans. motown and gospel singing for Tel: 01582 792874 ADULTS) Rehearses on Wednesday evenings 8-9.30pm in the drama studio at Rehearses Wednesday 7.30pm-10.00pm St George’s VA School, Sun Lane, www.hertfordshirechorus.org.uk or email: Harpenden, AL5 4TD. New term starts membership@hertfordshirechorus.org.uk 27/4/11. Book your FREE taster session at www.rockchoir.com or just Dance Summer School turn up! Monday Nights The Royal British Legion Harpenden Barbershop Harmony Tel: 07710 033363 Club (The Kings of Herts Chorus) Diamond Community Dance Rehearse at Sir John Lawes School, Manland Way, Harpenden, AL5 4QP. Project Wednesday - Jenny on 01582 764391 (7.45 – 10.00 most Thursday evenings) Tel: 01582 760 582 The de Havilland Aircraft Web: www.kingsofherts.co.uk

Hertfordshire Chorus

Heritage Centre

Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays. 107, Salisbury Hall, London Colney, near St Albans, AL2 1EX. Tel: 01727 822051 visit: www.dehavillandmuseum.co.uk

Harpenden Country Market

Hardynge Choir (Harpenden/ Wheathampstead based choral society) Tel: 01582 760 854 Web: www.hardynegchoir.org Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, St John’s Hall. 8.00pm Tel: 01582 622 420 or 768 574 Web: www.harpenden-operatic.co.uk

Woodside Farm and Leisure Park

English Miscellany Folk Dance Display Group

Harpenden Winds Small Wind Orchestra www.stalbans.gov.uk/harpendenwinds

St John’s Hall, Harpenden, Herts. Tel 01483 755 278

Hiel’ and Toe Club Lourdes Hall, Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 1PF. Tel: 01582 769 607 Web: www.hielandtoeclub.uk

Arts Club Harpenden Public Hall, Southdown Rd. (7.30 – 9.30 most Thursday evenings) Web:www.harpendenartsclub.org.uk

Doodley Bugs Art & Craft Classes for under 5’s. Mon: 10-11 Harpenden Trust Hall. Booking essential. Tel: 07710 889092 www.doodleybugs.co.uk or email monica@ doodleybugs.co.uk Crabtree field, Harpenden. Tel: 01582 767 305

Pensioners’ Coffee Mornings Every Thursday in first floor room High Street Methodist Church Harpenden Tel: 01582 460457

Harpenden Colts Football Club Meets every Saturday mornings. All age groups between U’7 - U’18. Coaching either Fri eve or Sat am. Visit www.coltsonline.intheteam.com

Music Makers Choir of Harpenden Children’s Card Making Workshop

Rehearsal address: The Parlour, Harpenden High Street Methodist Church. Shaws Corner Contact Judith Caunce on Home to George Bernard Shaw for over 40 years, Shaw’s Corner is a 1902 Tel: 01582 765 006 Email: jac@events-plus.co.uk Arts & Crafts house set in a quintessentially English garden. Musicale Adult Band Open 12 Mar - 30 Oct 2010 Tuesday evenings, all standards Address: Ayot St Lawrence, near welcome. Welwyn, Hertfordshire AL6 9BX. Tel: 01582 713 333 Tel: 01438 829221 Visit: Email: info@musicale.co.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/wWeb: www.musicale.co.uk shawscorner

(rehearse at St George’s School, Wednesday 19.45 – 22.00) Tel: 01582 620 993 Email: leasingerspress@fsmail.net Web: www.leasingers.co.uk

Harpenden Light Operatic Society Harpenden Indoor Bowling Club

Friday mornings 9.00 - 11.30 Methodist Church Hall, High Street, Harpenden. Great range of fresh home-baked, handcrafted foods inc: vegetarian Indian cuisine, breads, cakes, biscuits, savouries & preserves. Also, free-range eggs, plants, hand-made cards, knitwear, quilts & crafts. Monday - Saturday 8am – 5.30pm Sunday - 9am - 5.30pm Traditional Funfair: Saturday & Sundays 11am 5pm School Holidays & Bank Holidays 11am - 5pm Weekdays - seasonal times. Visit www.woodsidefarm.co.uk

The Lea Singers Harpenden based chamber choir

3nd Saturday every month at Artscape. Booking Essential Tel: 01582 766385

Harpenden Photographic Society 3rd Tuesday every month Sept – June Visit www.hpsociety.co.uk

Magic Voices Mixed Contemporary Choir Wednesday eve - 8-10pm at The British Legion Club, Harpenden. All ages & abilities welcome. Visit www.magicvoices.co.uk

We love Autumn… Halloween, fireworks, conkers & any excuse for a hot chocolate with marshmallows.

Jon Bell Fitness – Diet Tips I often say to clients ‘a healthy diet does not necessarily constitute a weight loss diet, but a weight loss diet should be a healthy one’. More and more companies are marketing their foods as “health foods” and while their intentions maybe well placed, many of these foods do little to help the consumer lose weight and get in shape. I often see these healthy foods in client’s diets, and yet these same clients tell me that they have found it difficult to lose weight. A common problem is that the food companies are still concerned with dietary fat and thus create low-fat, high glycemic carbohydrate foods. Such foods can negatively affect blood sugar by spiking it and causing consequential problems with insulin - a storage hormone. If you want to lose weight, learning about the glycemic index and controlling your blood sugar is key.When compared to the real healthy foods that have been around for millennia, such as fresh vegetables, fruit, fish and meat, these new foods fall far short in the way of healthy nutrients. I provide every client of mine a list of foods that I know help with weight loss. While choosing these foods I consider their nutritional value and their glycemic index among other things. Unfortunately just because a food claims to be healthy doesn’t necessarily make it so. If you can stick to the foods that we here 10,000 years ago, you can’t go far wrong in your healthy weight loss efforts. Eat smart!

Jon Bell Fitness – Personal Training in a private facility Call Jon today to book your session on 07595 368257 or visit www.jonbellfitness.co.uk

Go and kick leaves in Harpenden’s reopened Oval woods off Ambrose Lane; take in the breath-taking views on a crisp Autumn day at Wendover Woods or Chute Wood in Dunstable Downs (where the kids will discover outdoor instruments;) or get the crayons out and try bark and leaf rubbing pictures in Heartwood Forest. Search for the largest conker along Leyton Road, Lydekker Park or Clarence Park; then tie them on an old lace and battle it out for the winning conker! Carve out Jack O’Lanterns in your pumpkins and do the same with oranges which can then be filled with jelly for that beheaded effect, make broomsticks out of twiglets and eat warm flapjacks. (100g demerera sugar, 100g golden syrup, 100g butter melted together and add 220g rolled oats. Pour into an ovenproof dish and bake for 20 minutes at 160o.) Put your Halloween decorations in the window or on the doorstep to welcome Trick or Treaters. But don’t forget the treats - bake goodies or go to the pound shop and give non-edible treats like cheap sparkly pencils or flashing bouncy balls. If you are the Trick or Treaters, ask the neighbours when they will be in and go with your friends. To save your children from the sugar rush hold a Sweet Exchange afterwards - swap candy for money and let them spend it on pocket money treasures at your local toy shop and then you can quietly munch your way through the treats at your own midnight feast!

Personal training in a private studio Jon has transformed me, I look better than ever. I've dropped 2 stone and 2 dress-sizes in 3 months.

For dazzling firework displays head to Harpenden’s Crabtree School, Redbourn Common, Verulamium Park, Harpenden Rugby Club or Butterfly World in St Albans. For more Autumnal ideas to get you out and about with the family visit

www.mumsguideto.co.uk or www.whatsonherts.co.uk 82

Kardy-O-Fun

Rosemary saw instantly what Kardy could offer and knew that his style of teaching could be enjoyed by our members too and, to cut a long story short, it was then that role of Creative Consultant to Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs was born, and the rest as they say, is history.

LOsE A stOnE in just 7 WEEKs

Since joining forces with the organisation, he has come out to Franchisee’s across the country to help get the word out & show our members what Kardy O Fun is all about. What better way to get fit and lose weight whilst having lots of fun. When Kardy was asked if he wanted to say anything to our members, he simply said “MOVE IT, LOSE IT, LOVE IT!”

So just who is Kardy Laguda? Kardy Laguda joined forces with Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs in 2011 whilst already enjoying huge success within the fitness & music industry. It was when our head of Training actually attended one of his master-classes at a Fitness Fiesta Convention that she asked Rosemary to invite him to present (with great success) at our annual Franchisee Training Weekend.

For details of Kardy-O-Fun classes at Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Clubs in St Albans, Harpenden, Hemel Hempstead & Markyate call Sandra Harnett on 01707 372559, email on Sandra.harnett@ rosemaryconley.com or visit www.rosemaryconley.com

Rosemary Conley members set out on Sunday morning to raise funds for Iian Rennie, Grove House Hospice by taking part in their annual 3 Peaks of The Chilterns Charity walk.

“Walk The Chalk” 3 peaks challenge

The walk is an 18 mile route setting out along The Ridgeway from Princes Risboro & finishing at Invinghoe Beacon. Rosemary Conley Franchisee Sandra Harnett asked members if they wanted to join her & her husband on this challenge as she knew it would help push some of them to the limit with their fitness. All six finished the walk in under 6 hours & raised about £500 for the Hospice. “I’m so proud of their achievements as when they first joined my classes, many doubted that they could even finish the 45 minute work out we do let alone walk 18 miles, It just goes to show what hard work and dedication can do & how people really can turn their lives around no matter what the age” 84

ROSeMARY COnLeY

fAt AttACK bOOstER diet HARPENDEN Southdown Methodist Church Hall, 130a Southdown Road, Harpenden, AL5 1PU Monday 10:00 - 11:30 am (Slim & Aerobics)

ST. ALBANS Cunningham Hill Junior School, Cell Barnes Lane, St. Albans, AL1 5QJ Monday 7:45 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

High Beeches Primary School, Aldwickbury Crescent, Harpenden, AL5 5SD Thursday 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) Thursday 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Zumba®)

Markyate Y2K Hall, Markyate Village Hall, Cavendish Road, Markyate, St. Albans, AL3 8PS Monday 8:00 - 9:15 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

HEMEL HEMPSTEAD Brockswood Primary School, Shenley Road, Woodhall Farm Estate, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 7QH Monday 5:45 - 7:00 pm (Slim & Aerobics) Astley Cooper Secondary School, St Agnells Lane, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 7HL Wednesday 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) Wednesday 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Zumba®)

St Bartholomews Church Hall, Vesta Avenue, St Albans, AL1 2PE Wednesday 10:00 - 11:15 am (Slim & Aerobics) Rebourn Recreational Center, 75 Dunstable Road, Redbourn, St. Albans, AL3 7PP Thursday 09:15 - 10:30 am (Slim & Aerobics) Bernards Heath Junior School, Watson Avenue, St Albans, AL3 5HP Saturday 09:15 - 10:30 am (Slim & Zumba®) Tuesday 6:00 - 7:30 pm (Slim & Aerobics) Tuesday 7:30 - 9:00 pm (Slim & Zumba®)

ST ALBANS Marlborough School, Watling Street, St Albans, AL1 2QA Monday 6:00 - 7:15 pm (Slim & Aerobics)

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This event not only gives people the opportunity to work out with Kardy himself, but have fun & also raise much needed money & awareness for two charities. Steps, which Rosemary is personally patron of & very passionate about is a conductive center in Leicstershire & Isobel Hospice in Hertfordshire.

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Look beautiful this Autumn! The changing weather can play havoc with your skin and your sun kissed summer look may be replaced by a dry, flaky and dull complexion; but you can glow again this autumn if you follow these simple beauty tips: Exfoliate Use a good facial scrub to get rid of dead cells (the rest of your body would benefit from a good scrubbing as well!) Moisturise A good moisturiser is an essential beauty product, but you need to use it consistently if you are to really feel the benefits; as the weather gets colder and the central heating is turned on you will need it more than ever! Boost your Vitamin C intake Vitamin C protects your body’s cells, is a good antioxidant and helps with the production of collagen; make sure you have a Vitamin C rich diet and look out for skincare products which have it added.

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food & Drink

Serves 6–8 Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • To serve • • •

Starter

1 small pumpkin (about 1kg) 1 white onion, roughly chopped 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic 2 sprigs rosemary 2 tbsp clear honey 3 tbsp virgin olive oil 500 ml chicken stock 1 glasses dry white wine 2 rashers bacon pinch of freshly ground nutmeg 150 ml double cream 1 lemon, juice only

“We won’t charge you a penny for delivery, not a sausage.”

double cream whipped sprigs chervil olive oil

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 220C/gas 7. 2. Peel the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds. Dice the flesh into large cubes and put in a roasting tray. Scatter around the chopped onion and garlic and tuck in the rosemary sprigs. 3. Drizzle over the honey and olive oil and roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and golden. Baste half way through to stop the honey catching on the bottom of the tray. Meanwhile, heat a small frying pan and add 1 tablespoon of the oil and fry the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and allow to cool, then finely chop and set aside until required. 4. Meanwhile bring the stock to the boil. When the vegetables are cooked, put in a blender with the hot liquid and white wine. Blend until smooth before adding the cream and lemon juice. 5. Return to the pan, add the bacon and season with salt and pepper. 6. To serve: ladle the soup into bowls and put a spoonful of whipped double cream in the middle of each bowl, topped with a sprig of chervil & ground nutmeg. Drizzle in a circle of olive oil and double cream if desired.

Traditional Pumpkin Soup 90

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Main Course

Lamb Shank

Hertfordshire’s Favourite Caterer • Wedding Catering • Canapé Parties • Chefs Table • Cooking Classes • Team Building

Call us 01438-712-622 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Preparation:

Ingredients:

1. Pre-heat oven to 150 degrees C (gas mark 2).

•

4-6 tablespoons olive oil

•

1.6kg or 4 lamb shanks, trimmed

•

5 tablespoons flour

•

1 leek, halved and cut into 1/2” pieces

•

2 stalks celery, roughly chopped

•

2 carrots, roughly chopped

•

2 medium onions, chopped

•

12 garlic cloves, unpeeled

•

1 bay leaf

•

1 sprig of thyme

•

1 sprig of rosemary

•

1 tsp whole black peppercorns

•

350ml (12 fl oz) red wine

•

600ml (1 pint) chicken stock

•

Sea salt

Cook: 2 hours 30 minutes

2. Heat the olive oil in a heavy, metal roasting pan on the cooker over medium-high heat. Toss shanks with flour to coat well; then shake off excess. Sear the shanks in hot oil until well browned on all sides, then remove from pan and set aside. 3. Add the leek, celery, carrot, onion, and garlic to the roasting pan. Cook until softened and lightly browned, stirring constantly; about 5 minutes. 4. Season with the bay leaf, peppercorns, thyme and rosemary sprigs. Pour in the red wine and chicken stock, increase heat to high, and bring to a simmer. 5. Season to taste with sea salt, and place the lamb shanks on top of the vegetables. 6. Cover the roasting pan tightly with heavy foil, and place into the preheated oven. Bake gently until the meat is tender and falls off of the bone, 2.5 to 3 hours. Remove the bay leaf and herb stems before serving shanks with vegetables and sauce. 92

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Dessert

Raspberry Swirl

Preparation

Cheese Cake

Preheat oven to 350°. Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla at medium speed with electric mixer until well blended. Add eggs and mix until thoroughly blended. Pour mixture into the graham cracker pie crust. Dot

Prep time 10 mins Cook time 40 mins

the top of the cheesecake with the preserves. Cut

The Engineer Pub 12 St Johns Road, Harpenden

Christmas Party Reservations & Bookings now being taken! Email: christmas@theengineerbar.co.uk

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through the batter with a butter knife several times,

Serves 4 Ingredients • 16 oz cream cheese • 4 oz sugar • ½ tsp vanilla • 2 eggs • 9 inches graham cracker shortcrust • 3 tbsps red raspberry preserve

for a swirl or marble effect. Bake in oven at 350° for 40 minutes or until the centre is almost set. Cool and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight.

If you can’t come to us, then we will come to you! The Engineer Mobile Bar can be hired for any event Weddings – Christenings – Business Events & more Contact us at parties@theengineerharpenden.co.uk

Garnish with whipped cream and raspberries, fresh or frozen.

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Homes

A warm home at night To keep safe and warm at home during the night you should: Try to keep the temperature above 18°C (65°F) in your bedroom overnight. Open the window or door a little at night for ventilation if you use a fire or heater in your bedroom during winter. Never use hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket, even if the blanket is switched off. Unplug blankets before you go to bed, unless they have a thermostat control for safe all-night use. Get your electric blanket tested every three years for safety – Age UK or your local fire and rescue service may be able to do this for you.

Stay warm this winter! According to Directgov keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health problems like pneumonia. But keeping warm doesn’t mean cranking up the heating; there are some easy ways to stop wasting energy and save money in your home this winter. Keep the heat in with insulation Insulation makes your home warm and healthy and will also help to keep your heating costs down. It’s a good idea to: Fit draught-proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors. Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to save energy, and money. To draught-proof your home you should block up unwanted gaps that let cold air in and warm air out. Saving warm air means you will use less energy to heat your home and therefore save money.

Insulate your hot water cylinder and pipes. By Lagging water tanks and pipes and insulating behind radiators you can reduce the amount of heat that escapes; this means you will spend less money heating water up, and hot water will stay hotter for longer.

Make sure your loft has at least 10–11 inches (270 millimetres) of insulation - any home with 4 inches (100 millimetres) or less should have it topped up. Heat rises, and in an uninsulated home a quarter of heat is lost through the roof. Insulating a loft, attic or flat roof is a simple and effective way to stop wasting energy and reduce your heating bills. Loft insulation is effective for at least 40 years, and it will pay for itself over and over again in that time; there are still government grants available to help with the costs. Every UK home (regardless of age and income) can take advantage of Government backed funding, helping to dramatically cut energy bills and create a more energy efficient home. To find out more visit www.insulationgrants.info

Double glazing is a great way to cuts heat loss. If you want a quicker, cheaper alternative to replacing all of your windows you can attach special plastic film or sheeting to the window frame or install secondary double glazing units. Curtains will also help to keep the heat inside this winter. A warm home during the day To keep warm at home during the day try to: Heat your main living room to around 18-21°C (64-70°F) and the rest of the house to at least 16°C (61°F.) Heat all the rooms you use in the day. Make sure you keep your living room warm throughout the day and heat your bedroom before going to bed. Set the timer on your heating to come on before you get up and switch off when you go to bed.

Make sure wall cavities are insulated. Homes built after the 1920s often have external walls consisting of two layers with a gap or cavity between them. Cavity wall insulation fills that gap, keeping the warmth in to save energy. As with loft insulation there are government grants available.

In very cold weather, set the heating to come on earlier, rather than turn the thermostat up.This means you won’t be cold while you wait for your home to heat up. 96

Dress warmly You can also help keep warm by: Wearing plenty of thin layers, rather than one thick one. Putting on a coat, hat, scarf, gloves and warm shoes or boots when you go outside. Wearing clothes made of wool, cotton or fleecy synthetic fibres. Wearing bed socks and thermal underwear at night. Find out more about keeping warm this winter at

www.direct.gov.uk

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St Albans Council acts to tackle empty private homes According to the ‘Great British Property Scandal’ there are over 1 million empty houses around Britain and 2 million people in need of a home. St Albans City and District Council has decided to take a leaf out of Channel 4’s Phil Spencer’s book and, in response to an urgent need for housing locally, take action- their aim is to bring long-term empty private homes back into use. An Empty Homes Officer has been appointed to encourage owners of vacant homes to make them suitable and available for occupation. It is estimated that there are 400 empty private homes in the district, although the real number may be much higher. Councillor Brian Ellis, Portfolio Holder for Housing for St Albans City and District Council, said, “We live in an area that has acute housing need, but at the same time we know there are hundreds of empty private homes in the district.The Council has decided to tackle this problem by appointing an Empty Homes Officer to liaise with the property owners about bringing these homes back into use.” Properties become empty and fall into disrepair for a variety of reasons: they may have been inherited or rented out, the owner may lack the funds or the skills to repair and manage the property, or they may be waiting to sell. If you suspect that a property may be empty and abandoned, please call the Council’s Private Sector Housing team on 01727 819447 or email us at housing@stalbans.gov.uk.

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Power flushing for central heating systems. Bathroom design & installation undertaken. Boilers repaired and installed. Solar panel systems designed, installed and repaired. All general domestic & commercial work undertaken. Small maintenance work covered. Head Office: 50 Masefield Road, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 4JR. Tel: 01582 831120 Mob: 07749 202609 web: www.igm.me.uk email: ian@igm.me.uk 99

530156

$ix ways to cash in on your home! You don’t have to sell your home to make money from your property, here are five ways you can make your house work for you! Let a room The number of homeowners taking in lodgers has boomed since the start of the recession. Today you are likely to see a couple in their thirties letting a room to help pay their mortgage; gone is the stereotype of the grumpy old landlord as portrayed by Leonard Rossiter in Rising Damp! And thanks to the government’s rent a room scheme you don’t have to pay tax on the first £4,250 a year; so this can be a great tax free way to make cash. Opening up your home to a lodger doesn’t have to be overly intrusive; there are websites which can help you find lodgers that only need a room during the week, allowing you to keep your weekends. Rent your driveway If you live close to the train station or city centre you could rent out a parking space. According to staylocally.com renting out an unused parking space is easy way to earn yourself up to £200 a month without any inconvenience to yourself. Register your space for free on a website such as ParkatmyHouse.com or YourParkingSpace.co.uk Get your house on TV Location companies are always on the lookout for a broad range of property types and architectural styles for TV, film and photo shoots. Short photo shoots can earn you a few hundred pounds a day up, and if your home is used for filming you could be up to £1,000 richer! Host exchange students If you have spare space but don’t fancy a permanent lodger you could play host to foreign exchange students. Simply providing a bed and meals for a student could earn you in the region of £100 a week, more if you can provide an ensuite bathroom.

Declutter Ebay isn’t the only place to get rid of unwanted goods. Clear your bookshelves by listing them for sale on GreenMetropolis.com (you’ll make £3 for each book sold); or if your wardrobe is bulging you could sell the classics that no longer fit to a second-hand designer store, or list them for sale at Whatsmineisyours.com. Host a party! Sign up to be a Tupperware host or, if you fancy something a little less retro, try The Pampered Chef or Jamie at Home – you will initially get discounts and free gifts but can proceed to making money on sales. You could also host a cosmetics party – VIE and the Body Shop both run schemes – or sell home candle decorations with PartyLite, although you will have to buy a starter sales kit before you get going. There are lots of opportunities out there!

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Take some inspiration from the changing season

For me autumn conjures up memories of collecting glossy mahogany conkers, watching fireworks light up the night sky, and carving bright orange pumpkins ready for Halloween - it is a magical time of year full of deep, warm colours. As I write this I can see that Autumn is just around the corner; the leaves are already starting to change to yellow and copper as nature prepares for an awe inspiring natural display; from rich peppery red, russet and orange, to gold, brown and purple, Autumn’s natural colour palette gives us a wealth of inspiration for our home.

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Give your home a facelift on a budget! In the current financial climate and with the local high property prices, the option of upsizing our homes is becoming increasingly challenging. However, with a little bit of time and effort, and not much money, it is possible to give your home a facelift without bringing in the builders! Here are five top tips which, with only a little financial outlay, will make a big difference to your home:

3. Hunt down bargain pieces that you can revamp with a lick of paint or some new handles. There is a wealth of local second hand furniture outlets, such as Emmaus or Harpenden’s Recycling Centre in Dark Lane; get rummaging and you may find a unique piece which, with a little TLC, will provide a fabulous cheap update to your home.

• • •

1. The easiest way to revamp a room is to get out your paintbrushes. A simple lick of paint can make a massive difference to the look of a room, and may give you more ideas ...who knows where it will lead! Children’s personalised frames by Nina Fox - £40. Large circle of butterflies by Nina Fox - £150.

4. Accessorise. Small items, such as vases and cushions, can make a big change to the visual impact of a room. Search around the charity shops in Harpenden, where you can find some stunning small pieces at low prices. Adding some small stylish items to a room can have as much impact as buying big new pieces of furniture.

2. Add some new artwork to a room. Most of us rarely change ours, but a new piece can add a focus and create a real talking point in a room. Rather than buying a generic piece of art from the high street, why not speak to one of our talented local artists who can produce artworks at very reasonable prices; pop along to a local art and craft market (check out our ‘What’s On Guide’ to find out when the next one is) and you will not only walk away with a beautiful piece of art, you will also get to meet the talented people behind it. One local Harpenden artist is Nina Fox; she produces beautiful framed artworks at very reasonable prices. Nina can even take some of your favourite memories, such as wedding invitations or favourite poems, and produce a completely bespoke piece of art.

5. And for all you parents out there....get good toy storage so that you can reclaim your house back every evening! It is very easy to get completely drowned with toys so good storage is an absolute must.

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Hearts frame with wedding invitations by Nina Fox - £40.

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This year’s mild winter and wet spring are said to have provided ideal breeding conditions for our native slugs and snails; their population is said to have trebled in some parts of the countryside. And as if that wasn’t bad enough, a ‘super breed’ of slugs has arrived from Spain; the recent wet weather has enabled this ‘Super Slug’ to flourish in the UK.

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Another Spanish slug has already become a huge problem in Norway, attacking farms and gardens; researchers fear the same could eventually happen in the UK.

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How to make your mirrors gleam!

OV ER

YEA TRA RS OF DIN G

Mirrors can provide a focal point, show off a room’s best feature, make a small space feel larger and make any area feel brighter and more spacious by reflecting the light. They are a versatile piece of home furnishing and, in my opinion, every room needs one! But, when it comes to getting gleaming mirrors, the abundance of them in my home becomes a real chore. So, what is the best way to get a smear free finish? Well apparently the key is a simple microfibre cloth and some plain warm water. If the mirror isn’t too dirty, it can be sorted in seconds with a little warm water, applied and then rubbed dry (in even circular motions to avoid smears) with a microfibre cloth. It really is as easy as that...no cleaning products needed. If, however, there is a little more dirt involved, you will need to put in a bit more effort.

First of all, make up a bowl of washing up liquid and water and wash the glass with a sponge, next buff away any remaining marks with a clean microfibre cloth. And what about that bathroom mirror which is always steamed up when you want to use it? To keep mirrors steam-free, apply a little shaving foam evenly across the surface; wipe away and buff with (you’ve guessed it) a microfibre cloth.

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Add a splash of colour to your home this Autumn!

We are Local Stockists of

Here are our top 10 ways to add colour to your home! 1. Coloured paint/wallpaper - whether it is a feature wall or the whole room this is a simple way to add colour and personality to your home. 2. Coloured cushions, curtains and throws - change the cushions on your sofa, add a throw to your bed or change your curtains. All of these will give a quick facelift to any room. 3. A welcoming front door- donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to say hello to your guests with a bold choice of colour. 4. Flowers- a simple vase of flowers will add colour and bring the outside in. 5. Artwork-Abbey investHarpenden in a pieceDirectory of artwork. Pop along Ad HR.pdf to a local art and craft market and pick up an original piece of local art.

6. Kitchen accessories- choose coloured crockery and pots and pans. 7. Repaint a tired piece of furniture- have fun making a statement out of an old piece of furniture; choose a bold colour to really stand out. Try the Annie Sloan chalk paint for an easy transformation.

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8. A coloured rug- a rug is an easy way to add a splash of colour. 9. Colourful light fittings- move away from chrome and try something different. 10. Stained Glass- an eye catching way to add colour is to use coloured glass. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford a 21:09:52 piece of stained glass for a door or window opt for a smaller piece which can be hung up.

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Antivirus and Security Software We are a local based company specialising in all internal projects. We guarantee a personal and professional service of high quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Our projects include: • Kitchen design and installation • Made to measure fitted wardrobes • Laminate and hardwood flooring • Bespoke radiator covers • Floor and wall tiling • Interior and external doors • Decoration

In this edition of What’s On, Paul from Harpenden Computer Services answers your questions on Antivirus and Security software for your computer and other devices. Q. Do I actually need an Antivirus program on my PC or Apple Mac? A. The short answer is Yes if you want to have peace of mind that your computer is protected. This is particularly important for Windows based PCs as these make up over 90% of all computing devices, and therefore they are the prime target for the virus writers. Apple Macs are different but you can still get a virus on one despite what people may say. It is only because there are fewer Macs sold that the virus writers don’t tend to target them as much, but that is changing with their increased popularity.

Q. I see lots of free Antivirus programs like AVG and Avast are they any good? A. Generally yes, and are certainly better than not having any protection at all. However some are better than others. Currently I recommend Microsoft Security Essentials which is free to users of a genuine Microsoft operating system and doesn’t expire like AVG does for example. Q. What is a Firewall and do I need one? A. A software Firewall ‘ring-fences’ your computer on a network and protects it from attack. If your computers are connected to a router (wired or wireless) then almost certainly there will be a Firewall built into the router and therefore no need for a software Firewall on your computer, assuming you trust all the computers connected to your router! However, if your computer connects directly to the internet via a modem like some older Virgin/ NTL connections then you do need a Firewall installed. The Internet is a network, admittedly a very large one but a network never the less and of course there are millions of people connected to that!

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

• Family run business with over 30

years experience. We design, supply and install Kitchens, Bathrooms, Bedrooms and Studies.

• Kitchens and Bathrooms to suit all budgets including replacement door makeovers.

• All work undertaken from supply

Call 01582 621347 / Mob 07594 541870

Email: info@pshalsey.co.uk www.pshalsey.co.uk 9 Tallents Crescent, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 5BP. 112

only to full project management including tiling, plastering and building work.

98 High Street, Harpenden AL5 2SP Tel/Fax: 01582 766557 info@jacksonkitchens.co.uk www.jacksonkitchens.co.uk Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 5.30pm Sat 9.30am - 3pm 113

Antivirus and Security Software continued. Q. Do I need an antivirus on my smartphone? A. If you have an Apple device like an iPhone, iPod, iPad then no as the only way to get software (or apps) onto your device is via the Apple App Store and Apple rigorously check all Apps for viruses and malware before making them available to download. If you have a device running Android or other operating system then it would be advisable to download a free antivirus program. Q. What is Malware? A. Malware is an abbreviation of MALicious softWARE and is probably the single biggest cause of computer related problems in recent years. These programs often take the form of fake ‘security’ software. You will notice pop-up boxes telling you there are all manor of problems with your computer and you should hand over your credit card details immediately to pay for the worthless software on offer claiming to resolve the non-existent issues. Most antivirus programs these days include an anti-Malware component or you can download a free one from Malware Bytes (malwarebytes.org).

Q. So should I buy an Antivirus product like Norton or McAfee? A. A Put simply if you have a laptop and often connect to different networks for example coffee shops, McDonalds, Starbucks, College etc then yes, I’d recommend a full Internet Security package from either Norton or McAfee they’re as good as each other. However, if you have a ‘static’ computer that never leaves home and you have a router with a built-in Firewall then a free product like Microsoft Security Essentials is more than adequate.internet via a modem like some older Virgin/NTL connections then you do need a Firewall installed. For any Computer Problems contact: Harpenden Computer Services Tel: 01582 769207 Email: help@harpendencomputerservices.com Web: www.harpendencomputerservices.com

Largest stock of designer fabrics, blinds, poles and accessories. Full making and fitting (plus free measuring) service available. Silent Gliss Installation Specialists Great discounts available off manufactures RRP including Sanderson, Harlequin, Crowson & Romo

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Open Mon - Sat 9:30am - 5:30pm

Ample FREE Parking 114

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HERTFORDSHIRE CONSTABULARY NEW NON EMERGENCY NUMBER 101 is the number to call when you want to contact your local police when it’s less urgent than a 999 call. 101 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The 101 police phone number is now in operation across England and Wales. Policing Minister Nick Herbert has described the move as one of the most significant changes in the way people contact the police since the 999 number was introduced more than 70 years ago. When to call 101? You should call 101 to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response. For example, you should call 101 if: • your car has been stolen • your property has been damaged • you suspect drug use or dealing in your neighbourhood

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Or to: • report a minor traffic collision • give the police information about crime in your area • speak to the police about a general enquiry The number is intended for calls that do not require an emergency response. It has already received 2.5 million calls since being phased in. Only one in four calls to 999 needs an emergency response and the new number is expected to ease pressure on 999 call handlers, enabling police to respond to genuine emergencies more effectively. Calls to 101 cost 15p from both mobile phones and landlines, regardless of how long the call is or when it is made.

Hertfordshire County Council Approved Contractor

Your complete building, plumbing and heating service

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

Telephone: Harpenden (01582) 713919 Email: enquiries@rcgrimwade.co.uk 116

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Do you know what an RCD is? Do you know if your home has them installed?

rpm buildingcontractors

An RCD, or residual current device, is a life saving device which is designed to prevent fatal electric shocks and provide some protection against electrical fires. RCDs offer a level of personal protection that ordinary fuses and circuit-breakers cannot provide.

Government statistics show that faulty electrical products and wiring cause most fires in UK homes; electricity is now listed as the major cause of accidental fires in UK homes. In addition to this shocking statistic, every year about seventy people are killed and 350,000 seriously injured in electrical accidents at home. Many of these accidents and deaths could be prevented by RCD protection; protection which more than half of us don’t have it. There are two different types of RCD, so if you decide to have one fitted here are your choices: RCD in your fusebox - this will give the

highest level of protection to your family and home as it covers all wiring, sockets and appliances on a circuit. Socket-Outlet RCDs - these are special

socket-outlets with an RCD built into them; they can be used in place of a standard socketoutlet. This type of RCD provides protection only to the person in contact with equipment, including its lead, plugged into the special socket-outlet. Portable RCDs - these plug into any standard socket-outlet. An appliance can then be plugged into the RCD. They are useful when neither fixed nor socket-outlet RCDs are available but, as with socket-outlet RCDs, they provide protection only to the person in contact with the equipment, including its lead, plugged into the portable RCD.

ltd

Established in 1978, RPM Building Contractors Ltd has been serving both private & commercial clients for over 30 years.

According to the Electrical Safety Council

in a recent survey, a third of respondents said they knew what an RCD was – however, they claim that many people confuse them with circuit-breakers, which offer nowhere near the same level of safety protection.

Friendly family run business Many testimonials from satisfied customers New Builds - NHBC Registered Extension and loft conversion specialists Plumbing and heating work undertaken Hard Landscaping, Patios and Driveways. All trades from plans to paint

RCD protection has been around for many years, but there has been no requirement to fit it in older properties. Today our homes are crammed with electrical devices; we all need to consider electrical safety more.

AFTER

The Electrical Safety Council is running a campaign to cut the number of people killed or injured by electrical accidents by getting more of us to fit RCD protection at home. A plug-in RCD can cost as little as £10; a fixed RCD will cost more, but will provide a greater degree of protection to help keep your family safe. So if you want to reduce your risk of a home fire you should;

Consider upgrading to a modern fusebox (consumer unit) with built-in RCDs or get a plug-in RCD from your local DIY store or garden centre - it could save your life? Avoid using faulty or damaged electrical appliances, lighting and switches. If you have any doubt about electrical safety in your home or if your electrics keep tripping, contact a registered electrician.

For information visit www.esc.org.uk/public/home-electrics 118

BEFORE

Testimonial: “Given our major building project, we wanted to be sure we had the best builder in terms of quality, value and ease of dealing with. RPM more than delivered on this and above all were the height of reasonableness, transparency and good nature in all communications, qualities which aren't something to be taken for granted with all building firms. We couldn't recommend RPM highly enough.” Kim and paul

t: 01582 794481

f: 01582 794061

w: www.rpmbuilders.co.uk e: kevin@rpmbuilders.co.uk RPM Building Contractors Ltd, Jarman House, rear of 42 High Street , Redbourn, Hertfordshire. AL3 7LN 119

So long Summer! Now that summer is over, my garden has started to look a little bleak and I am desperate to add some colour; I’ve decided that pots and window boxes may help banish my winter blues! So how am I going to start? Well, after some research I have decided that I am going to head off to a local garden centre and, with a little help from a knowledgeable member of staff, pick out a centrepiece for my containers and then decide on which plants compliment it. There are lots of plants which can be grown in pots during the autumn and winter months; heathers, skimmia, choisya, euonymus and hebe are just some of the shrubs that can be combined with bedding plants, such as violas, pansies, primroses and polyanthus. You can also ‘hide’ some bulbs, such as daffodils, crocus, dwarf iris and grape hyacinth, which will appear with spring bringing a burst of colour. Grasses (such as Carex buchananii, Carex flagellifera or Carex elata ‘Aurea) will add texture and soften displays.

For a low-growing, but eye-catching display, try combining black dragon grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’) with variegated ivy (Hedera helix ‘Glacier’) and a yellow-leaved heuchera (Heuchera ‘Key Lime Pie’). You can also dot crocus bulbs in the gaps to give the display a lift in spring. To ensure your displays lasts until spring you will need to water regularly (containers are best placed on pot feet to ensure excess water can drain away) and dead head the flowers as they start to fade.

Forget the rest Try the best - Rolands - Where else?

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Gardens DIG FOR VICTORY! During the war many parks were given made into allotments and the people of Britain were all exhorted to... “DIG FOR VICTORY!” And dig they did....in many families Saturday was allotment day; a day spent together digging, sowing, planting and harvesting. The scenario may have changed in 2012, but allotments are still popular. It is immensely satisfying harvesting your own succulent strawberries or cutting your own salad leaves (they always taste better when you have tended them yourself!) And of course you will enjoy the bonhomie on site! You will no doubt share your moans about the dry/ wet weather, compare the size of your beetroots and trade your surplus crops! But, allotments are hard work and you need to make sure you don’t underestimate the time High Elms and effort which17/11/10 tending your 14:52 plot will Page entail; you can’t afford to be away from them for lengthy

periods as you will find that weeds can very quickly take over, but saying that, the hard work is extremely rewarding.

If you are interested in an allotment here are some contacts for the local areas: Harpenden Gardening Club. Call: 01582 764030 or email: Heather@rennoldson.org.uk

David Ebbels, has had an allotment for 34 years (29 years at the Harpenden Rise Site and 5 years on the Westfield Site.) His favourite thing about his allotment is the ability to grow anything you want (apart from forest trees,) on your own small plot of land.

South Harpenden Allotments and Gardens Society www.shallotments.org.uk Contact Jenny Stevenson: 01582 712921 or Chris Overton: 01582 765744 or email: chrisoverton@dsl.pipex.com or visit the Society’s shop on a Sunday morning between 10am and 12pm. The shop is located on the Piggottshill site in Dark Lane, Harpenden, AL5 1QA.

Over the years David has picked up many tips; his best one is for growing leeks:“drop them into a hole with a few grains of fertilizer and water them in so that the sides collapse. I think I evolved it (the tip) myself, but so did most other people!” And the most important tools of the trade, according to David, are “a good border fork, hand trowel, and secateurs.” David has learnt over the years that you need to be creative in the kitchen with all of the produce; you don’t want to waste any of the flavoursome produce which have been lovingly grown. One of his favourite allotment recipes is his own simple Raspberry Brulee: fill a pastry case with 1raspberries, cover with cheesecake mixture and top with sugar melted under the grill.

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St.Albans Allotments, 01727 819329 or email allotments@stalbans.gov.uk Redbourn Allotment Association. Contact the Chair, Sue Bigg, at 13 Hilltop Redbourn AL3 7JG, or the secretary, Maureen Flynn, 16 Crown Street, Redbourn, Herts AL3 7JLX (01582 793250.)

David Ebbels on his allopment. Allotments not only provide you with fruit, vegetables and flowers at a very reasonable cost, but allotment gardening is also a very healthy relaxing outdoor exercise.

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Wheathampstead. The four Allotment Fields within Wheathampstead area are controlled by the Parish Council. Email: info@wheathampstead-pc.gov.uk or call 01582 832541

Abelia Garden Care We have been caring for gardens in Harpenden for the last 5 years, and can cater for all your garden needs!

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Services: Grass & hedge cutting Pruning/Arboriculture Garden Walls/Ponds Fencing Certified in horticulture General garden maintenance For a FREE no obligation quote, please contact Robert J Gray on:

Tel: 01582 456828 Mob: 07887 692212 Email: info@abeliagardencare.co.uk 12 Bramble Close, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 4AN

Boost for bird watching enthusiasts

Bespoke Metalwork & Specialist Welding

At Bespoke Metalwork & Specialist Welding, the goal is to provide a quality service and ensure Customer satisfaction.

• Lawn and hedge cutting • Garden maintenance • Planting planning • Fencing • Storm damage • Snow/leaf clearance • Gritting

Thanks to a local county councillor, people visiting Verulamium Park in St Albans will get a close up view of herons nesting. Cllr. Martin Frearson (St Albans South) allocated £461 from his locality budget to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). The funds will pay for a television monitor to be set up prior to the heron breeding season for the RSPB ‘Date with Nature Heron Watch’ in Verulamium Park. The monitor will be placed in the RSPB exhibition trailer at the edge of the lake, so people can watch live footage of heron chicks in the nest. The ‘Date with Nature Heron Watch’ will run from mid February to mid April 2013

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With years of Blacksmithing experience behind me I can manufacture wrought iron products to your design, or carry out small metal fabrication as well as general welding repairs & forge works.

Mobile Welding Service

07974b 430 532 or 01582 831 496 richard.sweetland@sky.com www.bespokemetalwork.com Rocco 9/11/10 13:09 Page 1

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MOT CENTRE Registration plates Condition, security, colour, characters correctly formed and spaced.

Exhaust system Secure. Complete. Catalyst missing where one was fitted as standard. Without serious leaks and is not too noisy.

Lights Condition, operation including HID and LED headlamps for cleaning, self levelling and security. Headlamp aim. Main beam warning light.

Seat belts All the seat belts fitted are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All mandatory seat belts must be in place. Check of the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) for air bags and seat belt pre tensioners. Seats Driver’s seat can be adjusted. All seats for security and seat backs can be secured in the upright position.

Mirrors Minimum number required, condition and security. Load security Boot or tailgate can be secured in the closed position.

Wipers and washers Operate to give the driver a clear view ahead. Windscreen Condition and driver’s view of the road. Horn Correct operation and of suitable type. Steering and suspension Condition, steering oil level, operation, a check for inappropriate repairs or modification including corrosion to power steering pipes or hoses. Operation of steering lock mechanism. Check of the MIL for electronic power steering and steering lock. The vehicle identification number (VIN) Is on vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1980. Only one unique VIN is displayed except on multistage build vehicles. Details from www.direct.gov.uk

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No appointments or Documentation needed. Drive through test lanes. State of the art equipment. Warm comfortable reception. Baby changing & disabled facilities. Large parking area. HGV & PSV brake testing.

Classes 4-5-7 No size restrictions

“Spares”, “Repairs” or “Sales Pressure”

Just a fair test!

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Open Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm. Sat 8am - 1pm. Sun & Bank Holidays Closed.

MOT CENTRE

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MOT CENTRE

Doors Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors should open from outside the vehicle. Hinges and catches for security and condition.

Bonnet Securely latches in the closed position.

MOT CENTRE

Exhaust emissions Vehicle meets the requirements for exhaust emissions, dependent on the age and fuel type of the vehicle.

MOT CENTRE

Tyres and wheels Condition, security, tyre size and type and tread depth. Spare tyres are not inspected. Note: vehicles first used on or after 1 January 2012 - check of the MIL for tyre pressure monitoring.

MOT CENTRE

Fuel system No leaks. Security and condition of pipes or hoses. Fuel cap fastens and seals securely. Note the fuel cap will need to be opened. Make sure the key is available.

• • • • • • •

MOT CENTRE

Brakes Condition including inappropriate repairs or modifications, operation and performance (efficiency test). Note the removal of the road wheels and trims are not part of the test. ABS or electronic stability control (ESC) where fitted. Check of the MIL for ABS, electronic stability control, electronic park brake and brake fluid warning.

A new independent MOT test facility

MOT CENTRE

Body or vehicle structure and general items Free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas. No sharp edges likely to cause injury. Towbars for security, condition, inappropriate repairs or modification. Correct operation of 13 pin electrical socket. Speedometer condition and operation. Engine mountings.

MOT CENTRE

The MOT looks at some important items on your car to see that they meet key legal requirements at the time of the test.

MOT CENTRE

Everyone who uses a vehicle on the road must keep it in a roadworthy condition; the MOT test checks that vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards. The first MOT test for a vehicle is required when it’s three years old (there are different rules if it’s used as a taxi.)

MOT CENTRE

Motors

MOT CENTRE

Award winning HELP for HEROES The award winning HELP for HEROES 4X4 EUROPEAN RALLY has raised nearly £500,000 for the charity since it launched on Armed Forces Day in 2010. The event will follow the path and tell the story of the WWII Allied Invasion through Europe. Allied Forces landed in France early on D-Day morning; 6th June 1944. The liberation of Europe had commenced; that history will unfold as our journey progresses. We also pass through the “Western Front” of WWII. The 2013 rally will start on 15th June from Littlecote House Hotel, North Wiltshire. This 2000 mile family friendly non- speed touring assembly is a meander through 7 European countries over 12 days. With a maximum of 45 teams, it is a part military history tour (including War Graves cemeteries, historic sites, museums etc.) and will include some fun challenges, off road driving (on public roads as well as private land) and social elements. It is open to road-legal 4x4 vehicles. Serving and ex-military entries are welcome, as are civilians and families. The rally wouldn’t be possible unless there were a number of support vehicles, one of which has been donated by HarpendenVans.com. Their popular Vauxhall Vivaro Sportive “VIPER” van, will be there every step of the way ensuring the rally goes smoothly. HarpendenVans.com said “It is a pleasure supporting this fantastic charity and we are proud to be associated with this event”. For more information and further details please visit www.h4hrally.co.uk or contact the organisers

via email info@h4hrally.co.uk or call them on (Tim) 07917 097374 (Keith) 07766 712851

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DIY Breathalyser Kit

We offer straight forward no nonsense Lease/Hire Purchase, the more you put down as a deposit the lower the monthly repayments and at the end of the term you own the vehicle.

If you travelled to France over the Summer you will be aware that it is now compulsory to have your own breathalyser kit; if you are stopped and don’t have one you could face an on the spot fine.

The VIPER, unique only to Harpenden Vans, is the class leading Vauxhall Vivaro Sportive in either LWB or SWB Panel Van or DoubleCab but with just a bit more… if you donʼt want all the accessories or want different colouring, we can do it.

The French Government are trying to reduce the number of alcohol related road deaths- there are in the region of 4,000 deaths on French roads every year, with drink-driving being the main factor. But will such a scheme make a difference? It relies on the good will of drivers testing themselves and making the right decision.

Optional Extras Include:

Taking the French idea a step further, Professor Nutt, the Government’s former chief drugs adviser, has said that all UK drivers should have to breathe into a breathalyser before starting their car; he proposes that if they are not within the legal drink drive limit the car would not start. Like the French, he believes that such a measure would cut drink-related road deaths and injuries. In 2010 there were 250 alcohol-related road deaths in England,Wales and Scotland. A further 1,230 people were seriously injured and 8,220 were slightly hurt.

Our Sportive includes:

Air Conditioning, Electric Windows and Mirrors, 16” Alloy Wheels, Factory Fitted Full Colour Sat Nav, Bluetooth, Vision Pack, CD/Radio, Colour Coded Bumpers, Lumbar Support & Drivers Arm Rest.

Professor Nutt told the BBC that some countries used the in-car breathalysers, known as alcohol ignition interlock devices, to ensure that people convicted of drink-driving don’t take to the wheel, and so what seems like a ‘radical’ idea could be made into reality. But for now, the Department for Transport have said that they have no plans to install such a device in cars - or to use them to test drink driving offenders.

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Increased Power 150 PS 18” Alloy Wheels Ply Lining Distinctive Sporting Stripes

(Colour Choice Available)

• • • •

Other extras available upon request

Call us today to discuss your requirements. Finance available on all vehicles – Subject to status. Monday - Friday 8.00 am - 6.00 pm Saturday - Sunday By Appointment

So what do you think of Professor Nutt’s idea - a harebrained scheme or a well thought out plan which could save lives?

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Chrome Pack Including: Side Bars Mirror Casings Roof Bars or Modular Roof Rack Bumper Plate

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