• Demystifying car air conditioning
• Enhancing pension contributions for a brighter future...
• Divorce and business
• Classics on the Common
• MiMagazine chats with... Flexercise teacher Mary Nethersole
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I was in my very early twenties when my late father handed me the keys to a secondhand dark blue Sunbeam Alpine convertible; my first car. I think it was less an act of generosity but more a means to get me off motorcycles, which I’d been riding since I was a fearless teenager. Looking back, I’m guessing it was the Series V model, the final version of the twoseater sports roadster built by the Rootes Group between 1965 and 1968.
At the time I hadn’t passed my driving test, so with L Plates tied to the bumper, I was accompanied by a friend with a full licence who just happened to be a Met Police officer at the time, which put my father’s mind at ease. He might have been less happy if he’d known some of the road trips we embarked on across the South East, making the most of the 1,725cc sitting under the bonnet. I eventually passed the driving test in my sister’s Mini – far less fun but to be honest, much easier to drive, particularly when it came to making a 3point turn. But that new sense of freedom with my Sunbeam Alpine, not least trips to Baileys nightclub in Watford where chicken in a basket was de rigueur (remember those days?), was not to last. It failed the MOT and the repair bill was well above my salary at the time as a newlyqualified journalist.
It sat sadly unused on my mother’s drive for several months before a couple of passing enthusiasts made an offer to take it off my hands. I recently saw a Series V model for sale at a little under £12,000 – an awful lot more than they paid for it. So, no regrets on my part then!
The Sunbeam Alpine was first produced in 1953 and had a starring role in the 1962 film Dr No with James Bond at the wheel of a Series II model.
Apparently there are now only 107 Alpines left in the UK with a MOT. If I come across an owner at Redbourn’s ‘Classics on the Common’ I will certainly stop for a chat to find out more.
And my motorcycles: a Suzuki GT185 followed by a Yamaha RD250 – probably both classics in their own right today. Now, if only...
Paul Jacques Editor pauljacques@ntlworld.com
07939 005218
Redbourn Classics Motor Show returns for a seventh year on Saturday 31st August. To find out more see page 6.
Mary Nethersole is a Flexercise teacher based in Redbourn. She has lived in Redbourn for 28 years with her husband Laurent and children Naomi 30, Louis 29, Isaac 26, Saul 24 and Anais 20 –plus Winston the dog (1).
What made you start Flexercise? In the summer of 2022, I picked up my 85yearold mother from her keep fit class that she had regularly attended for over 20 years. I knew how much this class meant to her and the value of bringing older people together to keep active while having fun; but seeing it in action sparked inspiration. That’s when my Flexercise journey began. I love the classes and I am inspired each week by the wonderful people who have walked through the door and now made Flexercise a weekly habit.
What was your first job/current occupation?
Not including the many jobs I worked in as a student (including driving a refuse lorry!), my first job was teaching in South Croydon, and then moving to a school in central London. The playground was on the roof of the school and balls would regularly go over the high fence and bounce down into the street below. Currently I am Assistant Head at a lovely Primary school in St Albans where I have been for 25 years. Thankfully, we have a ground level playground and don’t lose quite so many balls!
Hobbies/pastimes I’m a sportaholic and have been from a young age. At uni I played basketball, took up running in my 30s and was involved with Redbourn Tennis club when my children were growing up. Ten years ago a few of us started netball in the village – now the established Redbourn Redkites. Alongside my passion for sport, I love gardening and musical theatre. Our current excuse for going to the
theatre so often is classing it as homework for my daughter who is at drama school!
Favourite drink? It has to be coffee. It gives me comfort and energy at the same time.
Favourite meal? Not an easy call but I think I’d have to go with Thai food as my current go to cuisine for eating out. The taste of my daughter’s homecooked vegetarian lasagne can’t be beaten for a cosy night in.
Book you most enjoyed? The Secret Garden is my alltime favourite book; I loved it being read to me as a child and still find it magical now. The magic of that book is possibly the reason I love walled gardens today.
Film/TV show you most enjoyed? My favourite TV show is the British comedydrama Cold Feet. Set in the 90s it was very relatable to my life at the time. I loved the nostalgia when they continued the series in 2016; it felt like catching up with old friends!
Best holiday? Some of my most incredible memories and experiences took place during the 11 months I spent exploring SouthEast Asia, Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii with a group of very special friends in my 20s; the highlight being an exhilarating bungyjump in Queenstown. Since having my wonderful children we have spent many warm summers on the beaches of North Cornwall, notably the beautiful Mawgan Porth; having endless fun body boarding and eating overpriced ice creams and sandy sandwiches. We seemed to be blessed by full weeks of sun in those days!
If you could have any four people to a dinner party who would they be? I think I’d have to invite Peter Kay, and maybe Ruth Jones, for the hilarity; Sarah Cox for the fun chats (I think we’d get on); and then maybe Louis Theroux for some interesting conversations.
Email flexercisewithmary@gmail.com
Redbourn Classics Motor Show – Saturday 31st August – Noon-5pm
This year will be the 7th Redbourn Classics Motor Show and organisers are looking forward to welcoming more than 350 classic cars, trucks, motorbikes and tractors.
The show on Redbourn Common is open to the public from noon, and there is no need to book a ticket. We invite everyone to make a donation, cash or contactless, with a suggested donation of £3 per adult, children free, as you arrive at the show. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors who pay for the overheads of the show, all the monies donated in the buckets at the entrances each year go to local Redbourn charities.
Common. Parking is limited, so if you live in Redbourn please walk to the show if possible. Since 2017, Redbourn Classics Motor Show and fete has raised more than £90,000 for village charities. This year proceeds from the show will go to the Redbourn Community Group, Redbourn Village Hall, Friends of St Mary’s Church and Redbourn Museum. These funds are very important for the local charities.
Owners of classic vehicles should purchase their ticket in advance to bring their vehicle to the show via the Redbourn Classics website (vehicles must be 25 yearsplus). The show is now established in the diaries of many local classic car owners, so the places always sell out a couple of weeks before the big day.
We are delighted that the two bands who played on the stage last year, The Barnettes and Missing the Ferry, have agreed to come and play again, so there will be live music all afternoon. There will be a funfair for children and miniature train rides along the Avenue. In addition, there will ten street food stalls, a licensed bar, barista coffee, ice cream, craft stalls and a village fete. So, lots for the whole family to see and enjoy.
If you are coming by car, please follow the signs to the public car park areas on the
Redbourn Classics Motor Show is the largest funder of the Redbourn Community Group; the monies raised by the show help to keep the community minibus on the road and to pay for the office and many of the other activities, including the companionship networks, equipment loan and contributions towards community projects. The show is also the largest annual contributor to the funds of the Friends of St Mary’s, a charity which pays for the ongoing building conservation work at St Mary’s Church, Redbourn’s only Grade 1 listed building. Looking after a building, which is 900 years old, is an expensive and neverending job. Monies raised by Redbourn Classics have been used by the Village Hall to replace old heavy tables with new lightweight ones for use by groups that hire the hall, and more recently has paid for new doors. The show is the biggest event in the village calendar, attracting more than 4,000 people each year. It is organised by a small group of volunteers, but needs around 125 people to help run the show on the day. If you can help, please get in touch via the website. www.redbournclassics.co.uk
Routine Servicing
All repairs undertaken
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New cars and light commercial vehicles from ANY manufacturer
Used vehicles WE SERVICE CARS AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
As we embark on the new tax year, it presents an opportune moment to review your pension savings strategy, setting a solid foundation for future financial stability.
Early attention to your private pension at the onset of the fiscal year is not just about cultivating beneficial saving habits; it’s also about ensuring you fully exploit the benefits and allowances available to you.
Delaying until the end of the tax year might seem convenient, yet acting early and promptly in this new tax year allows your investments more time to grow. Leveraging the power of compound growth can significantly bolster your pension pot and, by extension, your retirement prospects.
The annual pension allowance represents the maximum sum that your employer, you as the individual and any external parties can contribute to all your pension schemes within a tax year without triggering a tax charge. As established last year, this cap is set at £60,000 or 100 per cent of your annual earnings,
depending on which is lower.
For those without earnings, the maximum tax relievable contribution would be £3,600 gross, and for individuals who have commenced withdrawals from their pension funds, they might face the Money Purchase Annual Allowance, lowering their allowance to £10,000. If your financial situation permits, maximising your pension contributions early in the tax year enables you to fully utilise the annual allowance and potentially reduce your tax liability if your earnings are equal to the annual allowance or more.
Tax relief stands as a compelling incentive, rendering pension plans among the most taxefficient vehicles for retirement savings.
For the majority of UK taxpayers, this equates to a government topup of 20 per cent on pension contributions, effectively reducing the cost of a £100 addition to your pension to just £80 from your pocket.
Higher and additional rate taxpayers may be entitled to further relief, though claims beyond the basic rate require a self
assessment tax return. It’s worth noting that some workplace pensions may apply tax relief differently, such as through salary sacrifice schemes, so it’s advisable to verify the specifics with your employer.
Leveraging workplace pension schemes
Workplace pension schemes significantly enhance your ability to save for retirement, with compulsory contributions from both you and your employer. A minimum total contribution of 8 per cent of your qualifying earnings is required, including at least a 3 per cent contribution from your employer.
Many employers are willing to match your contributions up to a certain level, potentially doubling the investment in your retirement fund. Investigating whether increasing your contributions could lead to higher employer contributions is an astute strategy for maximising your pension growth.
Leveraging bonus sacrifice for pension enhancement
In the realm of financial planning, particularly regarding retirement savings, the concept of bonus sacrifice stands out as a strategic manoeuvre. Employees who receive work bonuses have the opportunity to allocate a portion or the entirety of these bonuses directly into their pension schemes.
Some employers may be willing to match your contributions up to a certain level, potentially doubling the investment in your retirement fund. Investigating whether increasing your contributions could lead to higher employer contributions is an astute strategy for maximising your pension growth.
The tax year 2024/25 offers individuals a taxfree Personal Allowance of £12,570, a crucial figure in personal finance management. However, this allowance decreases by £1 for every £2 of income above £100,000, ultimately disappearing once income surpasses £125,140. By strategically contributing to your pension, you can lower your taxable income and
potentially reclaim any lost Personal Allowance. This results in receiving tax relief at an effective marginal rate of 60 per cent, a significant advantage for your pension contributions.
Securing Child Benefit through pension contributions
Adjustments announced in the March 2024 Spring Budget have positively impacted the HighIncome Child Benefit Charge threshold, now raised to £60,000 from April 6, 2024. With the complete cancellation threshold also increased to £80,000, fewer families will find their Child Benefit reduced or nullified.
Enhancing pension contributions can effectively diminish taxable income for those with earnings within these brackets, thereby retaining Child Benefit entitlements. Even for earners above £60,000, applying for Child Benefit to accrue National Insurance credits remains beneficial, which is vital for the State Pension.
A PENSION IS A LONGTERM INVESTMENT NOT NORMALLY ACCESSIBLE UNTIL AGE 55 (57 FROM APRIL 2028 UNLESS THE PLAN HAS A PROTECTED PENSION AGE). THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENTS (AND ANY INCOME FROM THEM) CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP, WHICH WOULD HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE LEVEL OF PENSION BENEFITS AVAILABLE. YOUR PENSION INCOME COULD ALSO BE AFFECTED BY THE INTEREST RATES AT THE TIME YOU TAKE YOUR BENEFITS. THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY DOES NOT REGULATE TAX PLANNING.
At the end of the Second World War, Redbourn was still very much a small, dispersed rural village, with housing concentrated around the High Street and Church End. Separated by the Common, there was not much housing in between.
However, after the war, an ongoing housing shortage compounded by the loss of urban housing due to bombing raids meant that many people were left homeless or living in
temporary accommodation such as prefabs.
The postwar government embarked on a massive house building programme in villages, which saw Redbourn transformed from a population of around 2,000 in 1950 to more than 5,000 by 1980, an increase of 150 per cent. In the same period the population of the UK overall increased by around 12 per cent.
Redbourn Village Museum is open on Saturday and Sunday, 2pm to 5pm, from February to November.
Courtesy of Redbourn Village Museum.
Redbourn in Bloom has created a ‘Flower Power Mural’ which will be entered into Anglia in Bloom’s Virtual Awards this summer – its ‘Special Feature to Celebrate 60 Years of Britain in Bloom’.
With flowers, illustrations, phrases and song titles from the Swinging Sixties, the mural is portable and will be displayed at Redbourn in
Bloom’s events for the remainder of this year.
Local artist Rosie Hodson started it o beautiful floral header. Members of the public and volunteers then added their own artistic contributions during the Redbourn Festival on 6th July. The work was skilfully finished by Martha (14), the granddaughter of one of Redbourn in Bloom’s committee members.
Latest government figures show that 42 per cent of people now get divorced. Frequently, one or both of them will have an interest in a business. Divorce can have a disastrous impact. It is therefore important to take good legal advice.
The law states that on separation, all the circumstances of the case must be taken into account. This will include all assets including the business, incomes and earning capacity.
The court has a wide discretion to do what it considers to be fair. The starting point for dividing assets is equality but fairness and needs may dictate otherwise. It may for instance be that the business has been within the family for generations.
Unless it is a small income producing business, it is usual for the business to be valued by an independent accountant. In large or more complex cases, this will be carried out by a forensic accountant. There are different valuation methods depending on the type of business. Usually though a valuation will take into account sustainable profits having regard to an average of the last three years profits and forecasts.
The court is able to order the business to be sold. It can also order shares in the company to be transferred from one person to the other, subject to any restrictions in the shareholders agreement. If there is a large degree of cooperation, both spouses might remain in the business. A new shareholders or partnership agreement is likely to be required. However, courts prefer to leave the business intact. It is usually the main source of income
for the family. The nonbusiness earning spouse can often be compensated by receiving a greater share of the other assets such as the home, investments and pensions. She/he may also receive maintenance. Alternatively, it is sometimes possible for a business to raise money because it has surplus capital or it can borrow funds.
It becomes more complicated if the business is owned by several people. It is less likely the court would order the business to be sold or money raised against it. If a business person is looking to get married, it is certainly worth asking his/her fiancé to sign up to a prenuptial agreement. This can protect the business in the event of a divorce, provided the overall agreement is fair and meets the other person’s needs.
It can be very expensive and timeconsuming fighting about these issues. It is much better to try to reach a fair outcome.
We have a range of family law services as well as actively encouraging all forms of out of court settlement, including mediation and collaborative law.
Laura Martin‐Read is a senior associate solicitor in the Private Family team at Machins Solicitors
Email laura.martin‐read@machins.co.uk or visit https://www.machins.co.uk/
By Melanie Wooding Jones – Redbourn Auto Solutions – Caring for you, and your car
When the heat of the great British summer comes, many of us have sought relief from our car air conditioning (A/C) systems to help us feel a little more comfortable. And as we put a little more pressure on these fantastic systems, they inconveniently become more likely to break down. We do not necessarily notice if it is not working efficiently, but when it breaks completely, we seek help of an expert.
The majority of vehicles are fitted with A/C (or climate control) systems. As with other components in your car these need regular attention to ensure they are working efficiently.
If you are experiencing a lack of cool air, a recharge may resolve a low refrigerant issue.
The process is simple and broadly involves:
• Checking the system for leaks
• Determining correct refrigerant volume
• Pressure check system
• Removing any old refrigerant gas and oil from your system
• Replacing this with the correct amount of new refrigerant and lubricant
• Check again for leaks
A vacuum test is also performed to ensure there are no cracks or damage to your A/C system that could cause the gas to leak out.
The evaporator in your car’s cooling system can be the perfect place for bacteria, mould and fungi to grow. This can sometimes lead to a horrible musty or ‘sweaty sock’ smell when you turn on the A/C, particularly if it is left unused for periods of time.
These odours can be resolved with an A/C clean or debug, which decontaminates the system and kills bacteria. The process involves a cleaning spray, or bomb, within the cabin which is sucked into the air vents and kills the unwanted bacteria.
This provides a comprehensive check of your A/C system and is more indepth than a regas.
The A/C System components and internal system controls will be inspected looking for obvious signs of damage or leaks. Next, the system is vacuumed, which removes all refrigerant, A/C oil, moisture, etc. When complete, the vacuum pressure is checked to see if it holds. If not, it is a sign of a leak and would need further investigation.
Assuming all is well, the system is then recharged with new, clean refrigerant, and some oil with UV dye so even if there is a tiny leak, it can be seen and any repair costs can be advised.
Some garages offer a sanitiser and pollen replacement if this hasn’t already been replaced as part of regular servicing.
A service is far more comprehensive and offers a futureproofing of the vehicle’s refrigerant system.
A/C, like the rest of your car, is mechanical and needs looking after. It is not something that is covered in the regular service, so it can get overlooked.
The majority of manufacturers recommend an A/C service every one to two years as it is important for your health and 10 per cent efficiency is lost every year. In addition, without a service, you make the system work harder, which will in turn use more fuel. It also helps you maintain a stable body temperature, allowing you to concentrate better on the road ahead.
Can I just have a re‐gas/recharge?
Yes. However, it is a complex system, so often regassing is not the reason it’s failed. Just recharging the system may leave you needing another regas or recharge.
As with all things, regular maintenance is cheaper than fixing a repair at a later date. A service is often a more economical choice and also conforms to manufacturer servicing requirements.
Can I re‐gas my A/C system myself?
You can purchase A/C gas kits if you would like to attempt the job yourself, but we would not advise it. Apart from potentially injuring yourself, they are also almost as expensive as having the system properly serviced by a professional.
It is impossible to know how much gas is currently in the system or how much to add. A specialist will remove old gas, moisture or debris before putting the new refrigerant in to prevent any problems in the future. They will also have the ability to check for leaks and any other problems with the A/C system. There are also safety factors to be considered too –specialists are trained with good reason.
If you have an electric vehicle (EV), it is dangerous to try to fix the A/C yourself. It is part of the EV’s high voltage system, so you will need a professional to look at it.
Should I use the A/C in the winter?
Yes. A/C acts as a dehumidifier, which will keep the interior of the vehicle dry. With less moisture in the vehicle, it will vastly reduce the amount of misting and ice forming on the inside of the glass on cold mornings. Using the
system all year round will help keep the system seals lubricated and in good condition, which will minimise the amount of refrigerant leakage.
The RAC recommends you consider it as an essential part of car maintenance that could directly save you money on repair work further down the line.
If A/C is not used for long periods, it can seize up, and circulation suffers.
Why do I get a pool of water under my car?
In the heat, your A/C compressor works twice as hard and the unit itself can freeze over as it sucks the moisture out of the car. When the car is stationary, the ice starts to melt dripping water into a puddle under the car.
However, if it smells or has colour, it’s time to contact your garage!
How long does it take to service my A/C system?
It is an interesting question; we have seen consumers bragging that a fast fit centre has completed it in 10 to 15 minutes!
In short, there is no rushing the machine. It cannot remove and force the gas in any quicker. Exercise a degree of caution if a fast regas is offered, as many centres will be targeted on volume of sales.
It will take between one and oneandahalf hours to complete an A/C service correctly.
Newer cars use Hydrofluoro Olefin gas (1234yf), which is 98 per cent less climate damaging than its predecessor and is also described as having a low global warming potential.
Vehicles manufactured before 2014 commonly use R134A gas, whereas vehicles manufactured since January 2017 include the new R1234F gas, which is more environmentally friendly.
There are fewer garages with the correct equipment for the new gas as it remains expensive and less economical for smaller
independent businesses to invest in. Main dealers will offer this service, as we do at Redbourn Auto Solutions.
Both electric and hybrid vehicles will need the same servicing as their petrol and diesel counterparts.
In fact, it is possibly more important in these cars as the A/C system is also used for the thermal management and cools components, including the batteries and electric motors, which can become very hot with extended use. By cooling the battery, it supports effective charging processes and contributes significantly to the vehicle’s performance and battery life, rendering it essential rather than just for comfort.
The air recirculation button is useful to recirculate air already inside your car rather than pulling in outside air. This is particularly useful when your A/C is on, because it is easier for the system to recirculate already cooled air than continually cooling down new hot air. Not only will this help your vehicle cool efficiently, it also uses less energy and you will use gas at a slower rate, so economic also.
However, you should avoid using it for too long. Newer cars are increasingly sealed, so using air recirculation can increase the carbon dioxide levels and recirculate bacteria already inside the car.
Is there anything else I can do to ensure my A/C is running efficiently?
Run your A/C at least once a week throughout the year. It is a misconception that it is not fuel efficient to do this. It is more costly to put it right.
Chill out this summer and ensure your A/C is efficient. If in doubt, do not hesitate to ask your local garage or give us a call.
Don’t wait until it fails. If you haven’t had an A/C service in the past couple of years, get yours booked in and feel the difference.
Here at Slip End Garages in Luton, we believe that our traditional family values ar e crucial to the success of our organisation and to helping you find the automotive solution that best meets your needs. Since being ed in 1939 - and remaining under the ownership same family to this dayservice that is as friendly, welcoming, comprehensive as can be.
Beginning as an agricultural engineer supporting the needs of farming equipment, the business has evolved significantly over the years, having been a dealer of Ford vehicles until 1966 and then expanding to provide servicing, bodywork and breakdown services. In 1979, we would become a dealer for another world-renowned manufacturer: Citroën.
At our modern, wellbe able to continue to represent the Citroën marque as well as Isuzu, showcasing the virtues of every new model that is available, as well as providing some of the best pre-owned vehicles in the region. We even work tirelessly to ensure that buying a vehicle is as hasslefree and easy as possible, offering a new buy online function that enables you to purchase from the comfort
Inadditiontovehiclesales,ourstate-of-the-art workshops are staffed by some of the finest cians in the Bedfordshire area, and we continue low our traditions with a third generation of the involved in daily business activity.
The highlight of the Mayor of Harpenden’s fundraising calendar is the Charity Quiz, being held on Friday 6th September from 7pm at the Harpenden Trust Centre, Southdown Road. The event is in support of two local charities: the Harpenden Trust’s Wellbeing Hub and Youth Talk.
Test your knowledge, or just enjoy the fun. Join a team or make your own. Godfrey’s fish and chip supper included in the ticket price with other refreshments available at the bar.
For tickets email jane.juby@harpenden.gov.uk/call 01582 463 662
Louis Downie explores how playing golf can help develop mental resilience in youngsters and the important role played by supportive parents.
Golf, often perceived as a sport of patience and precision, offers numerous benefits for young players beyond physical fitness. One of the most significant advantages of junior golf is the development of mental resilience.
The game’s inherent challenges, such as handling the pressure of competition, recovering from a bad shot and maintaining focus over an extended period, can teach children valuable lessons in perseverance, emotional control and problem solving.
These skills are transferable to all areas of life, helping young golfers navigate academic pressures, social dynamics and future career challenges with greater ease.
However, the journey of a young golfer is heavily influenced by the role of their parents/role models.
Supportive parents are crucial in fostering a positive environment that encourages growth and enjoyment in the sport. Encouragement, rather than pressure, helps children build a genuine love for the game. When parents show enthusiasm and provide constructive support, they empower their children to pursue their passion with confidence and joy. This is not to say some don’t need a nudge along the way, but it needs to be done tactfully.
On the other hand, overly involved parents can be detrimental to a child’s development and enjoyment of golf.
When children are forced into the sport or subjected to unrealistic expectations, the intrinsic motivation to play can diminish. The pressure to perform can lead to burnout, anxiety and a negative association with the game.
It is essential that the decision to pursue golf, or any sport comes from the child’s own desire. This autonomy fosters a sense of
ownership and pride in their achievements –with an added bonus of selfmotivation.
Encouragement is the cornerstone of effective parental support in junior golf. Parents should celebrate progress, no matter how small, and provide reassurance during setbacks.
Open communication about goals and feelings ensures that the child’s interest and wellbeing remain at the forefront. This
❛Let’s work together to cultivate a love for golf in our children while building their resilience and confidence|
approach not only enhances the child’s experience in the sport but also strengthens the parentchild relationship.
In conclusion, junior golf can significantly contribute to building mental resilience in children, but the role of parents is pivotal.
Encouragement and support, rather than pressure and control, are key to nurturing a lifelong love for the sport and ensuring that the child’s journey in golf is both enjoyable and enriching.
Here at Redbourn Golf Club, we foster a fun and supportive environment for all juniors and would love to see more young players join our community.
For more information about junior golf, please contact Louis at louis@ldgolf.co.uk.
Louis Downie is a PGA Golf Professional at Redbourn Golf Club.
John Turkentine explains why.
It’s not quite The Euros, but for the next few weeks all eyes will be on Royal Leamington Spa as local bowlers compete in their county finals for a place at the Aviva National Finals, being held from 5th August to 1st September.
The home of lawn bowls, Royal Leamington Spa Bowling Club has hosted the competition since it moved there from Beach House Park in Worthing, a former venue of the championships until 2013.
The Middleton Cup is the arguably the most prestigious competition played between our county men with the final knockout rounds held at Royal Leamington Spa – unfortunately Hertfordshire has never reached a final, unlike Bedfordshire, which has managed it on two occasions, as champions in 1919 and 1922.
So whether you’re an avid bowls fan, a lover of big sporting occasions or just looking for a new experience, there’s something for everyone at the Aviva National Finals.
When the players reach Royal Leamington Spa they will find an enthusiastic crowd and competitors from across the country.
Every conceivable competitive bowling grouping will be played; formats from four members to solo players. There are elite players, youth and senior players, and there is a real buzz of anticipation and a wealth of excellent bowling on display.
One noticeable feature of the finals are the colours. Long gone are the days of everyone in white trousers or skirts and navy blazers.
Now, every team has its own personalised coloured strip – multicoloured tops and bottoms with a wide variety and of logos and feature panels are now commonplace. Such as our local clubs of Welwyn Garden City BC or Riverain BC (Hitchin), which features a very large kingfisher on its tops.
There is also every colour of bowl imaginable, from ice cream white to traditional matt black, with a host of bright colours in between.
The greenkeepers are busy from 6am every day, their carefully tended, cut, rolled, measured and manicured greens awaiting the arrival of representatives from every county. There are four competition greens, each having six rinks available, and play takes place every morning at 10.30, every afternoon at 1.30 and most evenings from 4.30, on each day.
The cost of attending is from as little as £5.50 a day – extremely low when compared with other sports and for a day’s entertainment it’s a bargain.
Royal Leamington Spa is now home to Bowls England, which is key to the growth and development of the sport and promoting what an allembracing game bowls is.
Not to be outdone the English Indoor Bowling Association (EIBA) organises its indoor summer competition finals at Kempston Park Lawn Bowls Club. It’s a more subdued affair but it features the newly formed Fantastic 5 Summer League final to be held on September 15th.
To find out more, contact John Turkentine at jt0740@gmail.com
John is a CoachBowls Level One Coach at Harpenden & District Indoor and Batchwood Hall Outdoor Bowling Clubs.
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gatherers (4)
When the living is easy (10)
Otherwise (4)
tificial sparkler (10)
Corridor (10)
Yorkshireman (4)
Preceding wedlock (10)
stones (4)
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mammary gland (5)
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by Bizet (6)
of air (6)
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island in the Channel (1,1,1)
Easy level Sudoku
Fill in the grid in such a way that every row and column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 19.
Brainteaser
What can be driven although it doesn't have wheels, and sliced but stays whole?
And finally, a joke...
Introducing his girlfriend to his family, a man said: “This is Peg. I found her online.”
Markyate
Care Group Help Line – 07972 152279
Care Bus – Sue and Malcolm Davies – 01582 840554
Sonia Aldridge 01582 872115
Dog Training
Markyate Singers are back every Thursday 8-9.30pm at the YK2 Hall Cavendish Rd!
Markyate Singers meet every Wednesday 7.30‐9.30pm at the village hall.
If you enjoy singing and can hold a tune you are welcome to join our friendly group. We sing for fun but also enjoy a challenge! Please call Lin on 07969322726 if you require further details.
Slip End
T Teennis Club
ages. Membership enquiries: Steve Lyons (01582 414162)
Coaching enquiries: Sally Parry (07979 433688)
Gardening Club:
years. Enquiries to Rosemary Wickens 01582 423622.
Flamstead
Computer Friendly Drop-in – for free and friendly help for
www.computerfriendlystalbans.org.uk
Caddington
Caddington and Slip End Runners 8pm Call 07587 189260
CaddingtonCare Good Neighbour Scheme
Friday between 9am and 4.30pm. Please call 07548 264672. The Library in Caddington, Folly Lane reopened on Thursday 5th August and runs from 10 am to 12 noon on alternate Thursdays. There is a large also available.
Caddington W.I.
Now meet 1st Tuesday of each month at 7.30 pm at the Caddington Sports and Social Club. Call Linda Edwards 01582 737036. We do a small amount of business followed by some f foorward to it.
Caddington Local History Group tonthef We mee foourthThursday of every month at 7.30 pm
T TaaiChi
12.30pm ChairYYooga Wednesdays sY 1.30pm Beginner Yooga Debbie 07948804031 CADS
Caddington. We are a friendly bunch and welcome new
email patgregory2023@gmail.com
Millie DanceSpace
Tues 4.15 onwards with 30 min group c street dance. Email millie.dancespace@ 07429 120383
Kensworth Drop-In
co.uk
Friday morning snack and chat y and T Bab Tooddler Group
Neighbourhood Watch – Caroline Stree
Cricket Club
Parish Council – Pat Mitchell 871178
Community Scheme – 07919 081473
Local History
riends of Studham Common f See website www.fooscomm.org Studham Village Hall
lasses. Ballet to gmail.com k 872410
872082 desstudham@btconnect.com TeennisClub
expressvending.co.uk 07833 111682 ee www.studhamtennisclub.co.uk Neighbourhood Watch – Richard Hod
ge 01582 873630
hipsnade Parish Coun 761730
edbourn
edbourn u3a meets every month in t
cil
Kensworth
Village Hall
Sylvia Inns 07831 538682
f Basils Farm Cafe e 07940 738383
Kensworth Art Club r villag
For editorial and advertising call 07939 005218
redbournu3amembership@gmail.com on 07956 400493 T Teennis at Redbourn Club Common in the heart of the village. A
he village hall and or speak to the chair
RedbournTTeennisClub Redbourn Community Group
R Call 01582 794550 or email: in More volunteers are always welcome. Redbourn Bowls Club always welcome
welcome packs for new residents. Call01582794550oremail:inffoo@redb
nnual membership fee bourncg.org. es new members. If
you would like more details, please contact our Chairperson Shirley Brooke, on 07866 149891, email shirleyhagart@ hotmail.com, or Jez Cronshaw, Coach, at 07525 867450.
Redbourn Community Library - open 6 days a week in page or email redbournlibraryvolunteers@gmail.com
Redbourn Players i Autumn as well as other local drama events.
paint scenery or help with publicity.
If you are interested, or just want to find out more, please email redbourn.players@gmail.com for details.
contact our Secretary Pauline (07771 931086) or email redbourn.players@gmail.com for details.
Redbourn Village Museum
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Silk Mill House The Common Redbourn Herts. AL3 7NB Patron: Sir Simon Bowes Lyon Museum open February to November Saturday & Sunday 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Last admission 4:30pm T Teel:01582793397
www.redbournmuseum.org
Redbourn in Bloom Horticultual Society Gold Award winner and Best Small Town in Britain in Bloom 2023. Besides planting schemes to enhance the village, we have all‐year‐round activities, including talks, trips, local awards, Autumn Show and Craft Fair. New members and volunteers always welcome. Join via our website, www.redbourninbloom.org.uk or contact Hilary Brown on 01582 793764, email ribmembership@gmail.com To volunteer, please contact Ann Davis, 01582 792518,email ribhelpers@yahoo.com
redbblkl dbourninbloom.org.uk or contact Hilary Brown on 01582 email ribhelpers@yahoo.com
Harpenden
Kinsbourne Green WI
Meet 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm in St Mary’s omf Email secretarykgwi@gmail.c foordetails.
Gaddesden Row T .TTaakesplaceatthe es place at the welcome. children.
Redbourn WI meets at 7.30pm on the second Wednesday of each month at Redbourn Village Hall. Upcoming meetings include Rewilding Redbourn talk and walk (September). For further information call Beth Bradley on 07852 452303.
T To o include your local group or pleasecontactus please contact us
For editorial and advertising call 07939 005218
Caddington Baptist Church Luton Road LU1 4AF Coffee mornings on the 2nd Tuesday of each month 10.30am 12 noon
Registered Charity No. 1181111
Redbourn in Bloom has two big events this autumn –starting with the Grand Autumn Show on Saturday, 7th September at 2.15pm in the Village Hall. Everyone, (adults and children), is very welcome to enter their home or allotment‐grown flowers, fruit or vegetables, also craft items, home‐baking or preserves. Free schedules with details of how and what to enter are available from Hertfordshire Garden Centre, Weyman’s Nisa Store and Redbourn Library.
The annual Craft Fair is on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th October at the Village Hall. This well‐established event has good quality hand‐made crafts, ideal for Christmas presents, with refreshments available throughout the weekend. There are only a few stalls remaining! To book, please contact Pat Schofield: email pandjschofield@talktalk.net or telephone 0781 505 9882
To find out more, please have a look at our website: www.redbourninbloom.org.uk
We always welcome new members and volunteers. Please see our entry on the Groups & Societies/ What’s On pages.
Community Car Boot Sale
St John the Baptist, Church End, Markyate, AL3 8PY
Love a car boot sale? In need of some real community spirit? Have a good clear out ready for the Car Boot Sale on Saturday 24th August at St John’s. 9am to 12 noon. Cost of pitch: £15
To book a pitch, contact Ro Basciano on robasciano@gmail.com before 10th August.
Mondays 10am – Redbourn Parish Centre
Tuesdays 10am – Y2K Hall, Markyate Tuesdays 5.45pm – St Albans
Contact Mary – 07914455371 flexercisewithmary@gmail.com
To include your forthcoming events in our What’s On pages, email paul‐jacques@ntlworld.com
Clements End Rd, Studham, Dunstable LU6 2NG
Every Saturday afternoon – Coaching sessions with our Club Coach from £7.50 per hour for juniors and adults.
Wednesday 28th & Thursday 29th August, 10am‐2.30pm – Tennis Summer Camp. A funpacked session for 518yearolds of any standard. Racquets can be provided. For coaching and summer camp, book at https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/StudhamTennisClub/ Coaching or email johnccallender@gmail.com
Studham Tennis is a vibrant and growing club. This year we aim through various initiatives to raise an extra £15,000 to contribute towards the muchneeded resurfacing of the tennis courts and ensure the continuity of our local tennis facility and a muchloved local sports club for the next 20 years. We are always keen to encourage and welcome new members –young and older. For more details contact lucy.calver@hotmail.com or call 07584 491360
Treasure Island – 18th August – 5pm‐6pm
DOT Productions presents their swashbuckling family show ‘Treasure Island’ at the National Trust’s Shaw’s Corner in Hertfordshire, the country home of playwright George Bernard Shaw and his wife Charlotte. With songs, pirates and laughter, follow Jim Hawkins on his adventures. Starting at The Admiral Benbow Inn, Jim finds a treasure map locked in an old pirate’s chest. After an encounter with infamous pirate Long John Silver who wants the map for himself, Jim and his friends join the band of pirates and embark across the seas to find Treasure Island. Once they find the island, it’s a race against time as both Jim and Long John Silver eagerly search for the treasure. For details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/shaws‐corner
Saturday 7th September 1pm Village Hall
For editorial and advertising call 07939 005218
Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 7.15pm at Studham Village Hall
LOCAL TRADESPEOPE
Why not advertise in this magazine
Visit
www.mimagazine.co.uk to book online or email pauljacques @ntlworld.com
There’s so much to do for all the family this summer at Discover Bucks Museum
The museum is open seven days a week over the summer holidays with a packed programme of activities for all ages including:
• See amazing Star Wars toys and movie posters in the May The Toys Be With You exhibition
• Enjoy creative crafts on MakeAToy Mondays, OutOfThisWorld Wednesdays and Fantastic Fridays
• Get handson in the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery
• Discover the Sensory Room, Toy Room and Tudor Room
• Have fun in the Garden Play Zone
Summer Holiday opening times until
3rd September 2024 are:
Monday to Saturday 10am5pm Sunday 12noon4pm
For further details visit https://discoverbucksmuseum.org
The annual Flamstead Scarecrow Festival is being held on August 16th, 17th and 18th.
As always, residents will be displaying fabulous scarecrows on their property or throughout the village. There will be a map of scarecrows posted on the website before the festival starts, although some scarecrows do have a habit of popping up unannounced too.
Entry to the festival is by a ‘suggested donation’ of £4 adult, £2 child (age 3+) or £10 family, which includes festival programme with voting form. Last year, the festival raised £11,000 for Friends of St Leonard’s and other local charities and organisations.
Opening times:
Friday 16th August – 12pm‐5pm
Saturday 17th August – 10am‐5pm
Sunday 18th August – 11am‐5pm
Sarah Claridge
Chartered Physiotherapist Acupuncturist, Certified Pilates Instructor, Reformer Pilates, BUPA/AXA Reg, Sports rehab, Post‐surgical rehab, Equestrian biomechanics and fitness
Tel: 07736 319894 info@meadowphysioandpilates.com www.meadowphysioandpilates.com
The Stables, Valley Farm, Valley Lane, Markyate, AL3 8AT
