#Herts September 2019 by Hashtag Digital Media

# HERTS

February 2019 Sept em ber 2019 December 2018

All t h e t op even t s an d Th eubu f eat r essin iness Oscar #Her t ss season begin s in #Her t s

Ch am ber aw ar ds w in n er s t ak e a bow

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What's on in #Herts

CHARITY SUPPORT Cou ld you give a legacy?

LAST HURRAH FOR THE SUM M ER Her t s Ch am ber celebr at e su m m er even t at Hat f ield

LEGENDARY VENUE We look back at Th e Hor n

TAKE TIM E OUT FOR A TIPI TREAT Au br ey Par k Hot el of f er s deligh t f u l even t s

NEW RECRUITS Welcom e t o PCSOs

UNLIM ITED FILM S

TRUST IN US

Win Cin ew or ld t ick et s

Her t s con st abu lar y t eam u p w it h t h e Pr in ce's Tr u st

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Collaboration station launch by Wenta Aft er t he successful launch of The Collaborat ion St at ion at t he Went a Business Cent re in Enfield, Went a has opened a second Collaborat ion St at ion at it s Business Cent re in Pot t ers Bar! W it h t he launch event t aking place on Sept ember 18t h at The Ent erprise Cent re (Cranbourne Road, Pot t ers Bar, Hert fordshire, EN6 3DQ). This brand-new st at e of t he art , working environment provides a collaborat ive workspace for individuals, ranging from st art -up businesses and co-working small businesses, t hrough t o est ablished business employees who are looking for a base away from t he office. W it h t hree clear packages on offer, Went a are cat ering t o t he growing need for a flexible workspace, in a professional environment - enabling businesses t o join in and work t oget her, or simply set -up and get on wit h t heir work. Assist ant Cent re Manager (Pot t ers Bar), Vicki Hewit t from Went a said: ?The Collaborat ion St at ion is a new and excit ing addit ion t o our cent re. There?s already a great buzz amongst t he client s who have just moved int o t he workspace and t hey?ve all been working very well t oget her. It ?s creat ed a fant ast ic communit y feel and has proved t o be a very welcoming and professional space.? To celebrat e t he launch of The Collaborat ion St at ion we are host ing a luncht ime launch event and BBQ (12:00-14:00 on Sept ember 18t h). The event not only offers a compliment ary BBQ lunch,

it also promises net working and t he opport unit y t o visit our great new facilit y and explore t he cent re as a whole. Digit al, Communicat ions and Market ing Manager, Charlot t e Amner from Went a said: ?This is a fant ast ic new facilit y, wit hin our Business Cent re, support ing local businesses in Pot t ers Bar! The cent re is current ly undergoing an upgrade and The Collaborat ion St at ion is a major part of t hat work. We are excit ed t o celebrat e it s official launch next week, invit ing our client s and t he Pot t ers Bar business communit y along t o net work and learn more about t he new workspace.? Here?s what t o expect at t he event : - FREE t o at t end, space t o park and easily commut able! - FREE lunch (BBQ) and refreshment s. - Net working opport unit ies - A select ion of exhibit ing businesses - Ribbon cut t ing ceremony wit h a t oast

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Tracks legacy giving can make a difference The gift of a legacy can provide major support to a charity of your choice It may also be something which can mean your wishes will be carried out to help maintain a charity after your death. Once you have been able to provide for family and friends there is then the option to leave a charitable gift in your will and it doesn?t matter what size it is, a legacy gift can prove to be absolutely crucial in the running of a charity. Current figures show that while many people think that leaving a legacy is a very popular option, just 7% of the population actually do this. Very often while people want to leave a legacy they feel that it can be too costly, time-consuming or expensive to do so but it really couldn?t be simpler. If you have decided to leave a legacy, at TRACKS Austism we can make it easy for you to make sure your wishes to support us are fulfilled. We will provide you with the help, advice and assistance needed to make sure a solicitor guides you through the entire process. Even if you have already made a will, you can still decide to leave a legacy by making an addition or change without re-writing your current will. An addition like this is called a codicil.

If you have any questions about leaving a legacy please contact us directly ? we will be happy to discuss this with you but we would also always advise you to seek the advice of a solicitor. Top tips: 1. Estimate the value of your estate and make a list of people and organisations you would like to support through leaving money, property or possessions. 2. Appoint one or more (up to four) Executors to carry out the terms of your Will.

3. Visit a legal adviser to draw up or update your Will. 4. Make a copy of your Will, and make sure someone you trust knows where your original Will is kept (your legal adviser will often store it for you free of charge, or you can use the Probate Registry). Contact us at this address Legacy@tracks-autism.org.uk and we will process any legacy requests in the strictest confidence.

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Blue badge scheme in #Herts is extended Hertfordshire County Council is extending its blue badge scheme to cover people who suffer from non-visible disabilities.

a blue badge if they severely struggle to get from their vehicle to their destination. They would also need to either:

About 2.35 million people in the UK have blue badge permits because they have physical mobility difficulties or are registered blind. The scheme means people with physical disabilities can park closer to their destination, making everyday tasks easier and reducing loneliness and isolation.

Under the current rules those who have physical disabilities and meet certain criteria may be eligible for a badge. But under new criteria people with hidden disabilities, including autism and mental health conditions will also be able to get access to blue badges, removing the barriers many face when travelling.

Councillor Ralph Sangster, Cabinet Member for Resources at Hertfordshire County Council, said: ?It?s really positive that people with mental health and other conditions that aren?t always visible will now be able to access a blue badge. ?We hope that by opening up the blue badge scheme it will give those who do suffer from non-visible conditions the confidence to get out in their local communities and keep their independence.? Applicants, including those who cannot drive and are passengers, might be eligible for

be a constant risk to themselves or other people in traffic or car parks severely struggle to plan or follow a journey find it difficult or impossible to control their actions and lacks awareness of the impact they could have on others regularly has intense and overwhelming responses to situations causing temporary loss of behavioural control frequently become

extremely anxious or fearful of public/open spaces The new criteria for blue badge applications will come into force from 30 August 2019. To find out who is eligible and how to apply visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/bluebadge.

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Care and compassion at the heart of Maria Mallaband Care Group Now recruit ing care and nursing st af f at Monread Lodge Nursing Home Are you caring and compassionate?Are you an experienced nurse, a newly qualified nurse, experienced carer or looking to start a career within a care homes? We?d love to invite you to take a tour of our home and meet us in person! We have opportunities for staff to join us as nurses, nurse associates, senior carers, and care assistants. Are you interested? We can offer full time, part time or casual opportunities, training & support, some of the best pay rates in the area, and great employee benefits. Care is at the heart of what we do here at Maria Mallaband Care Group. We're an established family-run care provider, and we deliver care to over 3,500 residents across our 80+ care homes nationwide. Our mission is to be the best quality; most highly regarded Care Provider in the United Kingdom and our vision is to create a home from home environment for both residents and staff. We are committed to being an Investors in People employer, which means that we continually invest in your personal training and development. MMCG is a place where your career truly starts to grow For more informat ion about our roles on offer please give us a call on 01438 518310, email us at recruit ment @mmcg.co.uk or visit mmcg.co.uk/careers

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Youth scheme success after 12-week sessions A group of 13 and 14-year-olds has successfully completed the YC Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire County Council's youth service, TRACKS programme in Broxbourne. The programme is specifically designed for young people to learn about the realities of gang involvement and how to keep themselves safe from exploitation. The 12-week programme includes sessions covering violence and the impact on others, drugs, alcohol, healthy relationships, peer pressure and exploitation. The group took part in a range of activities to help them recognise their skills and abilities, build confidence and develop team work. They have worked together to develop a better understanding of their community, learn about local support services and how they can access them. The YC Hertfordshire lead Youth Worker commented: ?The young people have really learnt a lot through the sessionsand have grown in confidence and self-belief.

"Young people have shared how they have struggled to engage in education and often would exhibit disruptive behaviours. Throughout the sessionson the TRACKSprogramme they have developed a better understanding of what they can achieve, individually and collectively. "They have learnt to communicate and work better together through listening to one another and expressing their own ideasand opinionsin a respectful way.? Participants shared how much they valued the programme: ?I thought it wouldn?t help me, but I?ve learnt a lot about how to deal with anger and keep calm when I argue with friendsand teachers.?

learnt a lot and the memories he haswill make him stop and think about hischoicesin the future.? ?Thank you so much. I know he?s made memoriesthat he will have forever. And it's these memories that will make him stop and think.? County Councillor Teresa Heritage, Deputy Leader of Hertfordshire County Council and Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families said: "It is clear from the overwhelmingly positive feedback from both the young people and their parents that this YC Hertfordshire programme has made a big difference to the lives of everyone who took part.

?It?smade me re-think how I deal with my anger. Five starsfor the programme! The staff are great, and I?ve made some good friends!?

"The experience will enable the young people to make better choices in the future and be less vulnerable to exploitation.?

?I used to get annoyed with teachersand get into trouble. I still get annoyed sometimes, but I deal with it better.?

The TRACKS programme is part of Broxbourne Youth Intervention Project delivered by YC Hertfordshire in partnership with Broxbourne Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council's Targeted Youth Support Service.

Parents also have taken the time to pass on their thanks: ?My son hasreally enjoyed TRACKS. He tellsme how much he doesn?t want it to end. He?s

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Aubrey Park - a stunning backdrop for Tipi weddings and events Text

Tipi Conferences & Event s Packages The demand for experiential conferencing and events in Hertfordshire is becoming more and more apparent. We wanted to go beyond a solution, to innovate with a fresh, new and exciting events space for all our corporate clients. With the flexibility to design any layout you desire; we can create anything from exciting product launches to motivational meetings or surprise gala dinners following a hard day at work. Tipi Wedding Packages Imagine your own Tipi wedding suitable for all English weathers, with heaters and fire pits as the temperatures drop, or embracing nature in the

summer when the sun is shining. Either way, enjoy one of the most eclectic wedding venues Hertfordshire has to offer. Tipi weddings at Aubrey Park have been designed to give you various options for your dream

day. To book one of our Tipi events, give us a call on 01582 792105 or email us: events@aubreypark.co.uk www.aubreypark.co.uk/tipis

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Herts Constabulary welcome 16 new pcsos

Sixt een new PCSOs have graduat ed. -

They are already working in t heir local areas. The role of a PCSO is paid and t here are opport unit ies for flexible working.

Tracking down shoplifters, searching for missing people and talking crime prevention with residents ? it?s all in a day?s work for Hertfordshire Constabulary?s newest Police

Community Support Officers (PCSOs).

proactively tackling crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

Sixteen new recruits graduated a fortnight ago, welcomed to the force by Hertfordshire Chief Constable Charlie Hall and Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire, David Lloyd.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire, David Lloyd said: ?I see strong value in our continued investment in our PCSOs because they have a vital role in intelligence gathering and they get to know the communities in our towns and villages.

After seven weeks?training, the PCSOs have been assigned to Safer Neighbourhood Teams across the county and have started working with the community to improve the quality of life for residents and make their area safer, by

?They are a key part of neighbourhood policing in Hertfordshire and I know anyone joining the team will find the role exciting and

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varied.? The role of a PCSO is paid and there are opportunities for people who wish to work part-time or flexible hours. The role involves shift work, including working some weekends and evenings to 11pm. Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the role can visit www.hertspolicepcso.co.uk The 16 PCSOs are: Broxbourne CSP, Cheshunt East ? Luke Rayson, 22, who used to work in construction, has really enjoyed his first weeks. He said: ?I always get a real buzz out of being able to help people out or assisting with a task which has a really rewarding outcome, sometimes even a life-changing outcome. I am really looking forward to engaging with the public, getting to know the locals and having a positive impact on the community.? Dacorum CSP, Berkhamst ed & Tring ? David Mort on East Hert s CSP, East Hert s Rural ? Mark Rippon Hert smere CSP, Bushey & Radlet t ? Sarah Webb Nort h Hert s CSP, Hit chin Rural ? Rebecca O?Driscoll Nort h Hert s CSP, Hit chin Urban ? Graham Pat erson Nort h Hert s CSP, Hit chin Urban ? Cynt hia Combe St Albans CSP, Harpenden & Rural ? Filip Wozniak, 19, who previously worked in McDonald?s, said: ?I?ve been shadowing experienced PCSOs, learning about the role,

learning computer systems and procedures. They?ve been telling me what to look out for, what to do and not do and show me around their wards. I?m really enjoying it and I feel I can understand the community?s needs and concerns. I'm looking forward to meeting the people of my ward."

various different jobs we have come across, as well as getting to know the area and community. Every day is exciting, challenging and different. I wanted to take on this role to engage and help the community whilst working alongside a supportive team.?

St Albans CSP, St Albans Cent ral ? Ilias Poulakis

Welwyn Hat field CSP, Welwyn Hat field Nort h ? Sam Murphy, who used to be a lighting technician in the live events industry, said: ?I?ve always wanted a job which involves working with a variety of different people, where I can make a difference in the community. I have had a really good first week and have enjoyed putting things I have learnt in training into practice.?

St evenage CSP, St evenage Nort h ? Lewis McClat chie, 22, who used to work in IT support, said: ?I am really looking forward to future work as a PCSO. I have always wanted to work in a role that can have the opportunity to make a difference, and I hope to be able make a real impact in my local residents?lives. My first experiences in the role have been nothing but positive, and I am confident this will continue.? St evenage CSP, St evenage Sout h ? Jack Laycock, 21, said: ?I have always wanted to do a job which involves working with members of the public and where I can make a difference. I?m familiar with my beat because I grew up locally and I?m really looking forward to taking on the challenges in Welwyn Garden City, getting to know the local residents and working with partner agencies." Three Rivers CSP, Abbot t s Langley & Chorleywood ? Robyn Smyt h, 18, who recently left Oaklands College after studying for her A-levels, said: ?I?ve been helping gather witness statements, doing high visibility patrol around different areas and gathering and putting in intelligence on

Wat ford CSP, Wat ford Nort h ? Bogdan Necsoiu

Welwyn Hat field CSP, Welwyn Hat field Sout h ? Francesca Mit chell, who used to work at Lister Hospital, in Stevenage, said: ?When I was growing up I always wanted to make a difference and work with the public and I am so grateful that I now can do both. I am very excited to get to know my community.? Welwyn Hat field CSP, Welwyn Hat field West ? Nick Doe, 34, has really enjoyed work so far, with tasks including a missing person search, tracking down a shoplifter and working on an information stall at Asda, in Hatfield. He said: ?I?ve always wanted a career working with people where I can make a difference, something to be proud of. I have found that as a PCSO and I look forward to building a safer community for all.?

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Herts Chamber enjoy summer party event Summer break celebrated at Stableyard, Hatfield House On Thursday 29t h August in t he St able Court yard at t he magnificent , hist oric Hat field House, t he Hert fordshire Chamber of Commerce host ed t heir annual Summer Part y event . The HCoC used t his opport unit y t o celebrat e t he summer break wit h members and non-members alike, and part nered wit h t he Minist ry of Defence in order t o celebrat e wit h businesses t hat are signed up t o t heir Covenant . The event sold out wit hin t hree days, and wit h almost 100 at t endees it provided an excellent opport unit y for net working. Delegat es heard a special performance from t he Essex Army Cadet Force Corps of Drums, while enjoying delicious canapes and a glass of fizz court esy of Chamber Member, W ine2Trade. Special t hanks also go out t o Mart in Gladdish, The Business Ghost , for performing his ast ounding magic

t ricks for guest s t hroughout t he evening, and t o our Pat ron Heart FM for providing t he music. Briege Leahy, CEO, Hert s Chamber, said: ?Thank you so much t o t he MOD for part nering wit h us and helping t o produce t his event , and what a fant ast ic t urnout ! The evening was perfect in set t ing, weat her, ent ert ainment , and company. It was great t o see so many new faces whom we hope t o cat ch up wit h again soon.?

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New Ware waste site begins to take shape Two mont hs int o t he project , t hings are beginning t o t ake shape at Hert fordshire Count y Council?s new recycling ?supersit e?which is being const ruct ed at t he locat ion of t he old Ware Household Wast e Recycling cent re on West mill Road. Since the closure of the old site, contractors Balfour Beatty have been busy carrying out extensive earthworks to this old landfill site to level the ground and to remove and replace material that could not be reused due to contamination. This has seen in excess of 26,000 tonnes of contaminated material removed and sent for recycling. Piling work is now underway to create the split-level design for the new facility. The works remain on schedule with the new site due to open in the summer of 2020. Terry Hone, Cabinet Member for Waste Management, said: ?We?re very pleased with the progress on site, and excited to see the new supersite starting to take shape. I hope residents will bear with us while we carry out the improvement works. I know it?s a long time for the site to be closed, but with over 100,000 new homes due to be built in Hertfordshire in the next

15 years, it?s vital that we upgrade our facilities to cope. I?m sure when the site reopens everyone will agree it will have been worth it, as it will be considerably larger, and a much better experience all round, which has to be a good thing for residents.? The new Ware site, which will be four times the size of the original recycling centre, has been designed to handle up to 300,000 visits a year and up to 10,000 tonnes of waste a year and will feature a purpose built reuse centre. Keep up to date on the progress at the Ware supersite on the WasteAware website at www.wasteaware.org.uk

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Police mentor with Trust Police officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary have completed training to become mentors for young people. The scheme, run by The Prince?s Trust, saw the first group of officers trained in Apsley, Hemel Hempstead on Friday (9 August). Five officers who work in Berkhamsted, Stevenage and at police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City learnt skills for supporting and working with young people on a one-to-one basis. The training was run by the trust?s Sam Howlett and Pete Austin, who is a former Hertfordshire police officer. The officers taking part in the training have previously been seconded to help run the run the trust?s Team programme locally. Chief Superintendent Matt Nicholls said: ?Young people are much less likely to engage in crime or anti-social behaviour if they are in education, training or have a job. Often the root problem is just low self-esteem or lack of support and direction. ?By supporting the trust?s work, not only are we helping to create better life-chances for many young people in

Hertfordshire, but we are also helping to give them a stake in society and diverting them away from anti-social behaviour.

The Prince?s Trust was founded in 1976 by HRH Prince Charles and aims to help young people gain the skills and confidence to live, learn and earn.

?This also benefits the wider community as it can also help to reduce criminal activity.?

Team is a 12-week personal development programme that gives people aged 16 to 25 the chance to gain new skills, take a qualification and meet new people.

Pete Austin, The Prince?s Trust executive, said: ?It was great to see the officers?commitment and enthusiasm for supporting young people. ?They have all previously been facilitators for our Team programme, which aims to boost the confidence and skills of young people who are out of education or work. As mentors they will help young people who have completed the programme but who may need on-going support to make the most of their experience.?

Participants take on a community project, making a positive difference to the place where they live. They also take part in a residential trip, get work experience and develop their English and maths skills. The constabulary is also working with the trust to increase the number of young people referred by police officers to the charity, so they can benefit from its support.

Award winning venue a St Albans success story #Hert s t urns t he spot light on a number of local venues, in t his edit ion we t ake a look at The Horn, St Albans.

The building was originally a hotel called The Railway Hotel, with The Midland Railway hotel on the opposite side of the road, and both being positioned next to St Albans City Station. The hotel used to have the occasional band or acts perform back in the 60?s, then in the early 70?s the site changed to a public house called The Horn of Plenty.

During the 70?s it became known as a great live music venue, and was run by Bob Andrews and then by Vinnie Jones' mum! In 1994 The Horn of Plenty underwent refurbishment, changing its name to The Horn Reborn. The venue was refurbished in 2007 and renamed simply as The Horn and has subsequently won UK Music Pub of the Year twice and UK Entertainment Pub Of The Year. In 2012 the Horn underwent yet another refurbishment hopefully ensuring the future of the venue for many years to come.

Everyone connected to the site past and present are proud to have been part of this historic venue which has helped local acts such as Paul Young, The Subways, Enter Shikari, Friendly Fires, Gallows and many more by providing somewhere for them to develop their craft. Gigs: BON JOVI UK - SOLD OUT Saturday, September 14, 2019 Europe?s No. 1 Bon Jovi Tribute MALLORY KNOX / LED BY LANTERNS / WASTE

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Mallory Knox are an English alternative rock band from Cambridge - Coming to the Horn as part of their UK tour

MarthaGunn are mining an eclectic mix of the 70s, indie-rock and classically-tinged pop music.

West-London born and raised, BLOXX are already showing all the right signs of becoming on the UK's most exciting new prospects.

ALLUSINLOVE / TV COMA / LEMON VENOM Thursday, September 26, 2019 "allusinlove are not merely another Yorkshire band: they are perhaps one of the most spectacular and urgent groups the country has to offer" ABSOLUTE BOW IE Saturday, September 28, 2019 Europe's finest tribute to David Bowie MARTHAGUNN / SARPA SALPA / SARA

THE TOTAL STONE ROSES - SOLD OUT

SOCIAL CONTRACT

Saturday, October 5, 2019

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

2019 - The Total Stone Roses return to The Horn following an advance sell outs in October 2016, 2017 & 2018 we advise booking tickets early for this one!

South London band Social Contract who?ve gathered high praise and comparisons to Future Islands and Bombay Bicycle Club. Recently signed to indie record label Beatnik Creative

LONDON CALLING Saturday, October 12, 2019 The UK?s Premier Tribute to THE CLASH play their 1979 album in full + more BLOXX / ON VIDEO / GAURANGA

FANGCLUB / EL MOONO / BISON FACE Thursday, October 17, 2019 "Fangclub, you should check them out, they are really really good" ::ANNIE MAC RADIO1 NIRVANA UK Saturday, October 19, 2019 Tribute to Nirvana PRESS TO MECO / CHAPTER & VERSE / THOUSAND THOUGHTS Tuesday, October 22, 2019 'Press to MECO' are guitarist/vocalist Luke Caley, bassist/vocalist Adam Roffey and drummer/vocalist Lewis Williams, a trio on a relentless pursuit to harness their sound into a punchy, driving and visceral powerhouse. SHE DREW THE GUN - SOLD OUT Tuesday, October 29, 2019 She Drew The Gun make impassioned, hypnotic and darkly ornate psych-pop built around the lyrically evocative songwriting of singer-guitarist Louisa Roach SOLD OUT

Police VIP treatment at Watford for kids Young people were invited by the club as part of an initiative run by the Watford Community Sports and Education Trust and supported by both Hertfordshire Constabulary and The Josh Hanson Trust. The event was part of ongoing partnership work aiming to provide support and opportunities for young people in the community. Those invited got to take part in football coaching sessions at the club?s training ground, as well as having a tour of the Vicarage Road stadium. Hertfordshire Constabulary?s Gangs and Schools Team gave a pre-match pitch side presentation, before the young people got to watch the Premier League match against visiting team Brighton and Hove Albion. The young people had been identified through various initiatives linked into Hertfordshire?s Serious Violence Strategy, which aims to divert children and young people at an early stage to deter them from becoming involved in crime. The strategy links together professionals from the police, health, education, social services and other organisations that supports young people, so that those displaying signs that they are at risk can be identified and diverted through mentoring and engagement programmes. Sergeant Helen Croughton from Hertfordshire Constabulary?s Gangs and Schools Team said: ?Watford Community Trust treated our young people like VIPs, one young man is a huge Watford fan and this was the first time he has had the opportunity to watch them play, everyone had a fantastic day. ?We are delighted that Watford FC are showing their support against knife crime by supporting the Lives not Knives campaign. Our intervention with vulnerable children in Hertfordshire continues along with partnership working to provide them with positive opportunities such as this. Thank you to Watford Community Trust for organising this fantastic event and giving these children a day to remember?. The Gangs and Schools team will be running events throughout the year, details of which will

be shared via their Twitter channel: @HertsCYP. Be on the look-out for warning signs that could suggest a child may be involved in gang activity: -

A child or young person going missing from school or home Significant changes in emotional well-being or significant decline in school results/performance The use of drugs and alcohol A young person meeting unfamiliar adults or a change to their behaviour Relationships with controlling or older individuals or associated with gangs Receiving excessive amounts of texts or phone calls and/or having multiple mobile phone handsets Acquiring money or expensive gifts they can?t account for Suspicion of self-harm, physical assault or unexplained injuries Becoming isolated from peers or social networks Carrying weapons

If you have any concerns about a young person displaying some of these signs you can report information online or speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via web chat You can also call the non-emergency number 101, and ask for Herts Police. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.

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The invasive effect of non-native species Hert fordshire?s illegal aliens Every year, non-nat ive invasive species are est imat ed t o cost ÂŁ1.7bn. They can pose a risk t o our nat ive wildlife and are a good example t o demonst rat e how delicat e our ecosyst em is. Here are some of our most common non-nat ive invasive species. Grey squirrel It is possibly one of the most familiar mammals and many people will feel fairly positive towards grey squirrels for they provide easy wildlife encounters. Native to North America, the grey squirrel was introduced to Britain in the 1870s. By now, it has successfully driven red squirrels out of Hertfordshire and most parts of England with only a few isolated populations of reds left in the North and the Isle of Wight. Himalayan balsam As its name suggests, Himalayan balsam is native to the Himalayas and was introduced to the country in 1839 as a garden plant from which it escaped within decades, quickly becoming one of the most invasive weeds. Wherever Himalayan balsam can get a foothold, it outcompetes native flora by overshadowing and smothering it. An annual plant, it grows up to 10 feet within a single year, then dies down in winter leaving riverbanks bare. Exploding seed pods catapult the seeds up to 22 feet away.

UK. Minks are fierce predators, feeding on anything that is big enough to catch, including ground-nesting birds and water voles, with devastating impacts on biodiversity. Harlequin Ladybird

American Mink

The Harlequin ladybird is a rather inconspicuous invader ? it?s difficult to distinguish them from our native British ladybirds. It is, however, said to be the UK?s fastest-invading non-native species. Only introduced to the country in 2004 as pest control for aphids, the Harlequin ladybird has since spread all over the south-east of England.

Escaped from fur farms in the 1950s and 60s, the American mink is one of the biggest threats to our native water vole which is now the fastest-declining mammal in the

They?re here to stay ? the Harlequin ladybird has become fully established here and it is difficult to control populations without harming other wildlife.

River M im r am by Pet er Tat t on

While they do compete with native ladybirds for food ? and readily turn to eating them ? it is suggested that that native insects may now have adapted to prey on the harlequins, helping to keep numbers in check. Hert s and Middlesex W ildlife Trust is cont inually working t o improve habit at s for nat ive wildlife and is t ackling invasive non-nat ive species wherever possible. Find out more at hert swildlifet rust .org.uk.

Tollers help you through the dispute process To Lit igat e or Mediat e t hat is t he quest ion? Unfortunately, almost all of us will be involved in a dispute of some kind or other in our lives. You may have purchased something that is not working correctly or received a service which is not to the required standard. Tollers Solicitors Dispute Resolution team in Stevenage has a wealth of experience not only in advising clients on the merits of their claim and the court process, but also in resolving disputes through using Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Here Nicholas Phillips from the team looks at the alternative options available to you should you decide to pursue a claim.

Nicol a Hol t on ? Senior Associat e, Duncan Nichol son ? Managing Part ner , Trist an Benson ? Part ner and Head of Disput e Resol ut ion, Vict oria Graham ? Sol icit or , Nichol as Phil l ips ? Senior Associat e.

W hat are t he alt ernat ives? The most common alternatives are adjudication, mediation, arbitration or negotiation. Adjudicat ion Adjudication is widely recognised as the ?pay now, argue later?mechanism for resolving disputes. It is generally used to resolve construction disputes and is designed to protect cash flow for business, by preventing one party withholding cash payments for significant periods of time. Mediat ion Mediation is becoming the most common method of Alternative Dispute Resolution. It involves appointing a neutral independently trained mediator whose aim is to try and narrow the issues in dispute, with the ultimate view of achieving a settlement. The intervention of a third party mediator can often help the parties to take a step back and consider matters with more objectivity. Arbit rat ion During an arbitration, an impartial professional is instructed to make a decision on the dispute. The decision of the arbitrator is binding on the parties and there are limited grounds to appeal any decision. Arbitration is generally quicker than pursuing matters through the Court process.

Negot iat ion Negotiations will generally be the first port of call when trying to resolve a dispute. They can take many forms including discussion between parties, calls between instructed solicitors or even a round table meeting between the parties. Negotiation can be the quickest and cheapest means of resolving matters, however, the parties must engage with the process and be willing to compromise. W hy should you look t o resolve mat t ers t hrough alt ernat ive met hods? The main reason, as with most things, is cost. Litigating matters through to a contested trial can be a costly process and incredibly time consuming. For businesses especially, it can be very disruptive. There is an expectation from the courts that parties will engage in some form of ADR before going to trial. A failure to do this, or an unreasonable refusal can result in costly consequences for a party. In our experience, more disputes are settling these days by way of negotiation or mediation, and parties should certainly consider these options before engaging in the costly court process. Having clear advice on what the best options are for you can help to save time and costs. If you would like more information on your options ? t alk t o Tollers on 01438 901095 and Nicholas and t he t eam will be happy t o assist .

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On the final journey Funeral t ransport : Making your last journey personal There are many sayings in life about journeys and travel. A journey is a common metaphor for life itself and they form the basis of numerous inspirational quotes. But we?re also a generation of physical globetrotters. We plot where we want to go, what we want to do; we have scratch maps to complete, bucket lists to fulfil. So the final journey we make after we?ve passed away is, surely, just as significant. By choosing a mode of transport and a route to take to the final resting place, which are personal to the deceased, a funeral can feel more about their life than their death. It?s not about going into the dark and unknown, but celebrating life and creating more memories. Our blog on personalising funerals [link to personalising funerals blog] touched on transport, but here we?ll look at it in more depth. Why is funeral transport so significant? There are two aspects to personalising funeral transport. Firstly, it allows the deceased to travel in a way that is very personal to them, whether this is

by their own planning before they pass away, or down to friends and family fulfilling their wishes on their behalf. This might be in a vehicle they owned themselves, something they loved going in, or perhaps even always wanted to experience! There was a story in the news recently of a man who?s dying wish it was to have his coffin transported in the bucket of the JCB he drove for 30 years. There are some beautiful pictures online of the JCB taking him on the short journey from his home to the funeral, followed by his family and friends on foot. (https://metro.co.uk/2019/04/24/ granddad-taken-funeralbucket-jcb-9294632/) The second aspect is about those left behind. Depending on the transport chosen, they can walk alongside, drive, or, in the case of a hand pulled bier, even carry their loved one themselves and be beside them right until the end. In some cases, following a traditional black hearse in a funeral car may feel quite distant and unfamiliar for the bereaved, perhaps even a bit stressful. It?s important to see how something as seemingly insignificant as the transport can

help our stress and mental attitude at such a difficult time. [link to funeral stress blog] A study by the Co-op revealed that more and more people want their funerals to be personal and celebratory affairs with Land Rovers and rainbow-hued vehicles to take them to their final resting places ? and companies are responding to these wishes up and down the country! W hat t ypes of t ransport are available? At Austin?s, we can arrange various modes of transport and always do our best to make your wishes happen. Aside from our traditional black hearses and limousines, we can offer? A motorbike hearse with a sidecar for the coffin A VW campervan, A variety of different model Land Rovers A 1950 vintage lorry A hand pulled coffin bier, which has been in the Austin?s family for generations A horse-drawn carriage with black or white horses

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Make the most of the Unlimited Card to enjoy Cineworld benefits ENJOY UNLIMITED FILMS Watch all the films you can handle at any Cineworld for just one monthly fee SAVE ON SNACKS AND DRINKS Get 10% off all in-cinema food and drink. Plus get 10% off at Cineworld Starbucks licensed stores. ACCESS TO PREVIEWS Be the first to see a movie with special Unlimited member advance screenings SAVE ON EVENT CINEMA We don?t just show movies. You can also get selected discounts on live Opera, National Theatre, live sport and gigs PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP After a year we?ll upgrade you to a premium membership for free, giving you 25% off in-cinema food

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Unlimit ed: How t o apply in person

Unlimited members can get free months of membership when they recommend Unlimited to their friends!

Step 1 Visit one of our Cineworld cinemas Step 2

Unlimit ed: How t o apply online Step 1 Make sure you have your bank details and a recent passport photo Step 2 Complete the easy application process and use your temporary pass straight away Step 3 We will post your Unlimited card to you Step 4

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Phot ography by Brendan Fal vey

If you have enjoyed t hese images of #Hert s by Brendan Falvey and would like t o find out how t o order t hem cont act on t he det ails supplied here

Email: bjpfalvey@gmail.com Phone 07572681805 www.brendanfalveyimagery.co.uk

There's a chill in the air! For t hose lucky enough t o have rhubarb growing in your garden t hen now is t he t ime t o spring int o act ion t o ensurer fut ure crops. Simply divide est ablished rhubarb crowns t o creat e new plant s and you will have a plent iful supply in t he years ahead. Now is of course the time to get serious on cutting back and make sure that you trimall you can from perennials that have died down

It ?s clearly get t ing cooler now

Th e # H er t s t eam of ex per t s gi v e you som e t op t i ps an d j obs t o do as t h e gar den n eeds our at t en t i on ... t hat t he wint er mont hs are eit her upon us or close at hand, so move t ender plant s, including aquat ic ones, int o a greenhouse or conservat ory

Don?t forget for all the hard work that you have put in there is the chance to reap some benefit. So if you have fruit in your garden make sure you harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts that are growing.

It ?s always very sat isfying t o be able t o plant seeds from plant s grown in your own garden so don;t forget t o finish collect ing seeds from t he garden t o sow next year.

It?s probably staring you in the face but there is work to be done on the lawn before the long winter ahead. This is your final chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas, and if work is needed then make sure to renovate or create new areas by laying turf.

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Wedding and party package Can you af f ord t o miss t he Forum's wedding package? As l ong as booking is made by t he end of t his year wit h deposit paid it can be used f or t he ent ire 2020. For a remarkabl e ÂŁ3,000 you can have excl usive use of t he f ul l suit e upst airs incl uding Fairview suit e. Incl udes: -

Room f rom 10am-midnight Cat ers up t o 500 Ful l use of t he kit chen and abil it y t o bring in booze and f ood. Incl ude securit y 1 hot el room Col our t heme upl ight ers and use of screens f or phot os

For part ies, weddings recept ions, birt hdays and charit y event s we are t he venue f or you. Book by Sept ember 30 2019 and use t his t o t he end of 2019. Part y package incl udes: -

Noon - Midnight Ext ended bar l icence on appl icat ion ÂŁ500 per room, accommodat e 200 peopl e. Can increase capacit y by booking a second room f or a 50% discount . Incl udes dance f l oor, securit y, t abl e l inen and bar st af f , upl ight er and screens.

Cal l us now on 01438 779955

And how about our amazing part y package?

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Book the best conference facilities for your business

Do you want t he very best f or your business? The Forum Conf erence and Banquet ing Suit es in St evenage of f er t he f inest f acil it ies and t he best rat es - and we now have a special booking of f er which wil l al l ow you t o book f rom now unt il April 30 2020.

Dail y Del egat e rat e - f rom just ÂŁ25 f or a minimum of 10 peopl e Every 10t h person is f ree and a bot t l e of f izz f or t he booker. Ideal meet ing space f or 20 peopl e, af t ernoon t ea cof f ee and cakes and l unch

Arrival t ea cof f ee and f resh baked past ries avail abl e Take a break wit h mid-morning t ea, cof f ee and biscuit s Af t ernoon hot and col d working buf f et l unch avail abl e Af t ernoon t ea, cof f ee and a sweet t reat f or al l del egat es Al l bookings incl ude f ul l use of st at ionery, room hire and equipment hire

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Spotlight on #Herts

Welwyn village Text

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Welwyn Parish is located in central Hertfordshire and has a population of approximately 10,000. The Parish boundary follows the old Great North Road (now B197), the A1M motorway and parallel

London-York-Edinburgh railway. The parish comprises the village itself, Digswell, Oaklands and Mardley Heath. Welwyn village is home to a vibrant economy and vast number of thriving independent businesses. We stopped off in Welwyn and took a look

at this lovely village and are proud to present some of the businesses here. Simply click on the image and link straight to their website to find out more about them and to get in contact.

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For r esult s t oday speak t o t he com m unicat ion exper t s at Spit f ir ePR Media rel at ions

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Market ing

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Proud publ i sh er of #Herts @h ash tagh erts For al l your mark eti ng and soci al medi a needs: 07539 782979 w w w .spi tf i repr.com darren@spi tf i repr.com @DarrenI sted1 @h ash tagh erts

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Ashr idge Est at e