Living Magazines - Berkhamsted Autumn 2023

Welcome to the Autumn issue!

With the arrival of the autumn magazine, we imagine most of you are busy getting back into the swing of things after a summer hopefully filled with fun and sunshine.

But as we all go back to school or work there’s plenty more to look forward to this autumn - see our local focus and round-up of local events and days out in our What’s On section for some ideas. Berkhamsted is certainly spoilt for choice with the Heritage Open Days, Book Festival and so much more - see the enclosed Berkhamsted Arts Trust Diary as well.

Plus there’s a chance to win a family trip to Aylesbury’s pantomime - oh yes there is!

Read our tips on helping your 11 year-old transition to secondary school. And for anyone who doesn’t want the summer to end, we have a guide to the best places to jet off to for some autumn or winter sun.

As always, the magazine includes lots of local news, while our local history feature focuses on the story of Berkhamsted Common’s World War I trenches.

Last but not least, visit our website for our classic pumpkin pie recipe, and how to make the most of your Halloween leftovers. livingmags.info/type/recipes.

If you want to be involved in the next issue, please email Naomi at editorial@livingmags. info with your news prior to our winter issue.

Happy reading!

History unwrapped - for free!

Foundling Hospital (now Ashlyns Schoolpictured) and the British Film Institute, there’s also a chance to get hands-on, as Open Door and Berkhamsted Art Society will be creating - with the help from the community - a clay model of St Peter’s Church. Open to adults and children, with the chance to also decorate a tile of air dried clay to take home.

The popular Heritage Open Days return this autumn between 8 and 17 September. As well as free walks and talks around historical Berkhamsted buildings such as the

If you’re a history fan, check out the winter programme of talks from the Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society, which include subjects such as the Arts and Crafts movement and gardens, the Duke of Windsor and the Nazis.

Find details of all these events in our What’s On section.

School tree nursery seeks suitable sites

Greenway Primary & Nursery School is looking for other schools or community areas to plant trees that have been grown on its Crossways, Berkhamsted site.

The school was given 50 native British tree saplings two years ago, as part of the School Tree Nursery initiative set up by the Earth Restoration Service, which aims to plant another

50,000 trees and enough flowers to attract 20 million insects across 1,000 sites in the UK by 2030.

The school was given 10 each of Hawthorn, Crabapple, Oak, Dogwood and Hazel trees, and the children helped plant these in a nursery bed in the school grounds during Easter 2021. The trees have done incredibly well, despite two very dry summers, and about 90% have survived.

Now, they need to find sites in our local community that could benefit, so are actively seeking requests from other schools or organisations that have the space and ability to plant one or more trees during this autumn (October/early November).

If you are interested, contact admin@greenway.herts.sch.uk

Berkhamsted Citizens Association (BCA) is among those that have hit out at proposals to close the ticket office at Berkhamsted Station.

London TravelWatch is conducting the public consultation regarding the closures - which would see ‘mobile staff’ at the station and the introduction of ‘touch in, touch out’ travel.

In a letter to the consultation, BCA chairman Gordon Bluck states: ‘For many rail users, their first engagement with the railway is the ticket office, where they can talk to someone who has the patience and knowledge to explain how to get the best-value ticket, and the optimum route for their journey. We believe that the loss of the staffed ticket office, open every day, at regular times, would be a huge disincentive for people to use the railway - just at a time when government is trying to encourage the use of public

transport, to reduce congestion and pollution. It will also lead to higher levels of fare avoidance.’

The train company is proposing roving staff on hand to help with using ticket machines, but Gordon adds ‘these have the limitation that they are not able to issue all of the tickets that the ticket office can sell, thus financially disadvantaging passengers’.

In its own objection, Herts County Council has raised concerns over the provision of assistance for those passengers that need it, and safety of lone travellers, especially women. It has asked that ‘if train companies are determined to push ahead with closures, that no ticket offices be closed until measures to simplify ticket purchasing have been put in place, and that guarantees are given that staff numbers will be maintained to assist passengers’.

Town hits out at ticket office closure Lifting beans to keep fit!

Tins of beans and a sense of humour are the only two pieces of ‘equipment’ needed for the popular JogOn Gentle Exercise Classes. Started in lockdown by two local fitness coaches, Erica Carter and Heather Harris, these twice-weekly online classes have raised thousands of pounds for a local charity.

Talking about the £5,000 the pair has donated, Louis Breese, fundraising manager for Hertfordshire Mind Network, said: ‘This money helps to fund the range of vital services we offer for the community. These include our Nightlight Crisis Services, as well as our weekly Meeting Place groups that take place both online and at each of our seven wellbeing centres across

Hertfordshire. These services are safe, welcoming, and support many people with their mental wellbeing.’

‘We have participants from all over the country so it’s always good to compare the weather,’ said Heather, who added that the cost is just a donation of £3 to Hertfordshire Mind Network, ‘as we are very conscious of the close link between exercise and mental health.’

If you are interested in trying a class email jogonrunning@hotmail.com.

Supporting our community

2023 marks five years since local marketing consultant Alison Page bought Berkhamsted (and Tring) Living Magazine, and she has made plenty of changes during that time - all to improve its appeal.

Alison is also keen to make the magazine as sustainable as possible, and has recently committed to offsetting its carbon footprint with the World Land Trust.

Other past eco-friendly changes include switching to FSC Certified paper and introducing a compostable, potato starch wrap when it’s needed, to enclose leaflets.

In a bid to support local businesses and organisations, Alison has held the price of advertising for a number of years - with prices starting from just £100 - and also offers a 30% discount for charities.

Alison has also ensured a regular news service for Berkhamsted and the surrounding villages by sharing news daily on the website at www.livingmags.info and on social media, along with a monthly email newsletter. If you’d like to subscribe to the newsletter visit: www. livingmags.info/sign-up-to-our-newsletter

She says: ‘I’m really passionate about both Living Magazines. I lived in Berkhamsted for nine years before moving to Tring, and I know that our magazine is a key cog within our towns and neighbouring villages - places where people

love where they live, and enjoy feeling part of a greater community and supporting a thriving local economy.’

The magazines are delivered to each and every address in Berkhamsted and Tringand surrounding villages - reaching a total of 22,532 households (meaning each issue is read by as many as 67,500 people). The Berkhamsted edition alone goes to 11,464 homes and businesses, as well as being picked up from the library, cafes and offices.

Alison says: ‘I believe I’m making a tangible difference and I hope my readers and advertisers sense that from us. We care. I care. We are the original (established in 2001), and the only magazine delivering to every single house and business in Berkhamsted and Tring.’

If you would like to advertise, call Alison on 01442 824300 or email info@livingmags.info to find out how we can support your business or organisation.

Arts for all as diary launches

It’s time once more for the Berkhamsted Arts Trust diary!

BATs was formed to encourage and promote the arts in Berkhamsted and comprises 20-plus arts organisations based in the local area, which promote arts events open to members of the public.

The diary includes a host of events from walks to jazz and classical concerts, art exhibitions, film nights and much more.

Find all the details within the diary, included with this magazine, or visit berkhamstedartstrust.org.uk.

Book your Book Festival ticket!

Back for its fourth year, BerkoFest Book Festival is returning to Berkhamsted Town Hall on Sunday 5 November. With exciting internationally acclaimed names ranging from Sunday Times top-selling fiction and non-fiction writers to musicians and comedians to theatre and film directors, many of

whom have won literary prizes and awards in their areas of expertise, it’s an amazing diverse mixture of talents. They will be available for Q&A as part of their session, and book signing. The event will be hosted by Robin Ince and Nigel Barden. Speakers confirmed so far include: Jonathan Coe, Armando Iannucci, Cariad Lloyd, Jo Caulfield, Robin Ince, Natalie Haynes, Paterson Joseph, Lewis Hancox and Jakko Jakszyk. www.berkofest.com

Pepper Show pops back

he longestrunning live music theatre show in the home counties - the Pepper Show - returns in October for its 34th year. The Pepper Show is the flagship fundraising event of the Pepper Foundation charity - which raises funds for children’s hospice at home care. The show returns to the David Evans Pendley Court Theatre Tring, performing six shows from Tuesday 10 to Saturday 14 October.

T2023 will be the biggest Pepper Show production since its post-pandemic comeback in 2021. The show features a cast of more than 30, performing an ambitious set list of pop and rock anthems from across the decades. Also returning in 2023 is the full Pepper youth choir. For 30 years the show has played an important part in fostering musical talent within the community, providing the opportunity for children aged eight to 17 to learn about music performance. thelittleboxoffice.com/pepper/event/ view/180620

Graham Greene is arguably Berkhamsted’s most famous former resident. An annual festival, now in its 24th year, celebrates his life and legacy with a compelling mixture of accessible talks, readings, and film-screenings. This year, prominent speakers from the UK and abroad will take us into the world of intelligence, in which Greene served as an MI6 officer and about which he wrote many novels and film scripts. Charlotte Philby, the granddaughter of notorious double agent Kim Philby, who was a close friend of Graham Greene, will speak about

a new novel she has written concerning her grandfather’s early career. Other speakers will look at Greene’s film projects, including the controversial 1958 production of The Quiet American, which will be screened at the festival, as will the superb 1999 film of The End of the Affair.

The Festival is held from 28 September to 1 October, mainly in Berkhamsted School where Greene grew up under his father, the Headmaster.

For details and tickets, head to www.grahamgreenebt.org

Graham Greene Festival returns Get in the picture with new book

Local portrait photographer Gary Trent would like to hear from people interested in appearing in a portrait exhibition and limited edition coffee table book - OurTimes; OurPeople Berkhamsted. Shot in a storytelling, editorial style, the photo book will include both location and studio portraiture to explore the narratives and characters of the people of Berkhamsted.

From everyday heroes through to colourful characters, the aim is to create an invaluable insight into the vibrancy of 21st century life in and around our historic market town.

Subjects will be selected for their stories and desire to engage in the creative process. You’ll

need to set aside time for an informal chat to share your story and discuss ideas, and then commit to studio and location portraits.

Shot as a personal project, profits from the exhibition prints and book sales will go to DENS, the first port of call for people in Dacorum facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion.

If you’d like to get involved in the project, or nominate someone, please get in touch with Gary gt@trentportraiture.com or visit trentportraiture.com for more details.

© Greene by Paul Hogarth

The Barbican comes to Berkhamsted

Robert Schumann, and 21st century English cellist and composer Joy Lisney.

Named after the Barbican Centre for their first concert in 2015, the Barbican Quartet opens Berkhamsted Music’s 2023-24 Season on Saturday 14 October at Berkhamsted Civic Centre. They will perform works by Joseph Haydn, Thomas Adès,

Get singing for Xmas

The concert series continues in November with pianist Emma Abbate joined by Evva Mizerska (cello) and Peter Cigleris (clarinet) as the Zemlinsky Trio. Their programme combines clarinet trios by Beethoven and Brahms with works by Fanny Mendelssohn and Cécile Hartog. December brings local cellist Clare O’Connell curating a Behind The Mirror concert celebrating festive music from across the world and through the centuries.

There is more to look forward to in the New Year with pianist Victor Maslow and the Resol String Quartet who close the season.

See our What’s On pages and full details at www.berkhamstedmusic.co.uk.

Following the choir’s recent visit to Reims in France and concert on 2 September when it performed its tour repertoire, Berkhamsted Choral Society is starting rehearsals for its Christmas concert at St Peter’s Church, Berkhamsted on Sunday 10 December, with English Philarmonia Brass.

Rehearsals start on Tuesday 5 September at 8pm and are held weekly at Swing Gate Infants School. The choir would warmly welcome anyone interested in joining. No experience is necessary just a love of music and an interest in singing – no audition needed.

https://berkhamstedchoral.com

Panto’s back… oh yes it is!

The Elgiva’s professional award-winning family panto is back this December with a fairytale world of enchanted pumpkins, a handsome prince and some very special footwear…

Everyone’s favourite rags-to-riches heroine Cinderella dreams of going to the ball and meeting the prince, but will her wicked stepsisters prevent her? Or can she outwit them with the help of her best friend Buttons and a spell or two from her Fairy Godmother? And will she remember to keep her eye on the clock..?

Suitable for all ages, and filled with spectacular special effects, fabulous songs, wonderful

costumes, great gags and oodles of slapstick, and, of course, plenty of fun-filled audience participation and sing-a-longs, it’s a proper family treat!

And the theatre is delighted to welcome back to its stage CiTV star Chris Edgerley who delighted audiences in last year’s production. Having bagged ‘Outstanding Achievement Winner’ in last year’s Pantomime Awards, Chris will be starring as Buttons in this year’s panto, with his madcap blend of humour and slapstick.

www.elgiva.com

Chris Edgerley

ylimafC w evol hti

Like it or not, insurance to protect you and your family from the worst is important. So here’s a quick guide to what’s what in life, illness and income protection, and how to make them work for you

Nobody looks forward to tackling their life assurance, critical illness plans or income protection. Unlike a mortgage, investment or pension, there’s nothing aspirational about them either. They can seem like just another load of household expenses.

We understand that it’s all too easy to bury your head in the sand. There are so many excuses, after all. From the classics, ‘It’ll never happen to me’ and ‘We can’t afford it’, to the ever-hopeful ‘My employer will look after me if something awful happens’.

Let’s talk life insurance

There are two types of life insurance and both pay out lump sums when you die. Term insurance provides cover over a pre-determined period only, while whole of life assurance continues until you die. With the latter, a payout is guaranteed. So which is best for you? Think about who the insurance is for and why. How much cover do you need and for how long? It’s also worth checking whether your employer provides a death in service benefit.

Weunderstandit’salltooeasy toburyyourheadinthesand

If you’re looking at term insurance to provide security for your family, it might be worth considering ‘family income benefit’ as an alternative. Rather than a lump sum, this pays out a regular income until the end of a specified period and is relatively inexpensive.

What about illness cover?

Critical illness cover (CIC) pays out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with one of a specific range of conditions, from heart complaints and cancers to rarer diseases. Typically, a policy will cover 40-50

conditions. These can vary considerably, however, which makes it tricky to compare like with like. You can buy CIC as an extension to life insurance or as a standalone product. The right option will depend on personal circumstances. Income protection gives you a regular income if you become unable to work due to sickness or disability. It’s the most expensive of these insurance options, as it’s the most likely to be called upon. It’s also one that’s often overlooked, typically because people think that prolonged health problems are covered by their employer. Sadly, this is rarely the case, so make sure you check.

Fortheaveragefamily,income protectionisprobablythe mostimportanttypeof cover

If you’re trying to prioritise, you’re more likely to need income protection than critical illness and more likely to need critical illness than life assurance. Consider a survey by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Lives survey 2020, updated February 2021), which reveals 39% of adults saying that, were they to lose their main source of income, they’d be able to cover less than three months’ living expenses. That’s more than 20 million people – and their families – at risk. There are savings to be had, however. Cover becomes cheaper, for example, if you’re prepared to extend the length of time before the replacement income kicks in. Short-term income protection contracts that pay out for between two and four years are another relatively affordable option.

Get in touch

We’d love to help you secure your family’s financial safety net. At St. James’s Place we’re proud to offer tailored solutions and access to our carefully selected insurance panel.

24418884780

ku.oc.ppjs@nnamregnirts moc.nnamregnirts.www

S deretrahClaicnaniFsrennalPhtlaeW detnioppAevitatneserpeRdnastneserperylno.tSs’semaJecalP M esoprupgnisivdayleloseht g ehts’puorgetisbew w eragnitekramsmretdesu

s’semaJecalP.sevitatneserpert

Suicide alertness training The Bard is back in town

Local charity Hector’s House has launched safeTALK, a half-day training in suicide alertness. It helps participants recognise a person with thoughts of suicide, instils confidence to start a conversation and explains how to get the person to a connection that can help them keep safe.

It’s estimated that one in five of us have thoughts of suicide. It is important that our community is alert to the issue.

The training by the Hector’s House team offers you the chance to become aware of the risk that someone you know might be thinking of taking their own life – and will equip you with the confidence and the skills to help that person keep safe.

Find out more at www.hectorshouse.org.uk/ safetalk-training.

Blessing of backpacks

To mark the start of a new school year, St Peter’s Church, Berkhamsted, will be blessing children’s backpacks as part of its regular Sunday service, on 10 September at 9.30am. All are welcome and there will be refreshments afterwards.

In a smoky jazz club called The Golden Round, they roll their dice, and they place their bets. Someone who seemingly enjoys beating the odds is the brave soldier Macbeth, who returns victorious from battle as our story begins. How far will his luck take him and his wife Lady Macbeth?

Award-winning Berkhamsted Theatre Company is bringing the Bard back to the David Evans Court Theatre, Tring from 17 – 21 October. But this will be Macbeth as you have not seen before.

The exciting, modern, smoky bar setting, complete with jazz singing witches, is the brainchild of Paul Gladwin. A professional director and actor, Paul has lived in the local area for eight years and is well aware of the bed of talent the area has to offer. Following his recent retirement, he wanted to work with local performers, to bring Shakespeare back to the local community, but with a fresh twist.

Tickets to see Macbeth are available from the David Evans Court Theatre’s website. Visit www.courttheatre.co.uk to book.

NEWS

IN BRIEF

Fundraiser for new West Herts hospital

Afundraising dinner will take place in Berkhamsted in a bid to raise funds for the campaign for the West Herts 21st Century Hospital Solution.

The campaign for a new centralised hospital for West Herts, is spearheaded by Gordon Yearwood, who was responsible for the planning, design and construction of the Hospice of St Francis.

He told Living Magazines that the plan is ‘still very much viable as the £1.27 billion tower block scheme currently proposed at Watford, has not had its business case approved. The West Herts 21st Century Hospital Solution will provide far more accessibility and will cost only half as much. It will also be a far better environment for patients and front line staff.

‘The next steps are to raise money to promote more public knowledge and support and to produce further analysis reports to convince the Government.’

The proposed hospital will, he added, be more accessible, centrally located, offer faster diagnosis and treatment and offer local town centre satellite support services.

The event will be held at Berkhamsted Town Hall on Wednesday 27 September. Starting at 7pm, the fundraising three-course dinner and presentation costs £35 per person.

Book via suebeardshaw@gmail.com or gordonyearwood@aol.com.

He added: ‘If you support our cause but are unable to attend the fundraising dinner, a £5 donation to ‘West Herts 21 Century Hospital Solution’ through the above, would help.’

David plans jazz orchestra and academy

Berkhamsted pianist and composer David Mellor is attempting to create a 22-piece jazz orchestra, aptly named ‘the 22’, and from it establish the 22 Jazz Academy – a facility to attract young and aspiring jazz musicians.

‘While this will ultimately be a worthwhile project,’ said David, who has worked with some of the top names in the music business here and in the US, ‘it will be a challenge to bring it all together.’

David has set up a Crowdfunding campaign to fund his plans, which are being supported by several local businesses and the Berkhamsted Chamber of Commerce.

While the 22 will tour nationally, its first performance is expected to be local. Find out more at www.the22jazz/donate.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Berkhamsted Jazz, which presents live jazz in a relaxed club atmosphere at the Civic Centre, is looking for a committee member to book bands once the committee has selected them. This mainly takes place from January to April. They are also looking for new committee members, meeting by video 10 times a year. Email info@bjazz.org.

Solar array appeal Working for Herts

As we went to press an appeal inquiry against the decision to refuse planning consent for a solar array on agricultural land at Little Heath Lane, Berkhamsted had just ended, with a decision expected in September. Watch our socials and website for updates.

• Countryside charity CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England) has raised a countrywide campaign for solar panels to be fixed to existing roofs instead of on good quality agricultural land.

Local charities can now share job vacancies and connect with job opportunities for free, thanks to a new initiative from Community Action Dacorum.

WorkingHerts aims to support both local charities and community groups in the county.

Its website at www.workingherts.org.uk serves as a centralised platform for posting and accessing job advertisements - both paid and voluntary - specifically tailored to the local community.

WHISTLE WHILE YOU WORK… OR EVEN BETTER, WIN!

Ready or not, it’s nearly the most wonderful time of the year, and for most families the most wonderful tradition is to enjoy a pantomime together – oh yes it is!

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre’s annual offering has fast become a ‘must-do’ in the Christmas calendar with panto lovers young and old(er!) enjoying two hours of pure escapism. This year’s production is set to be no exception when Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs comes to town from Friday 1 December 2023 – Wednesday 3 January 2024.

Starring EastEnders’ James Bye and panto favourite Andy Collins, the festive production promises a traditional fairy tale with a magical twist, plenty of audience participation and lots of energetic song and dance numbers. For your chance to win four tickets to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre on Tuesday 5 December at 7pm, simply simply answer the following question and go to our website to enter at: www.livingmags.info/competition

What fruit does the Wicked Queen poison?

A) Banana B) Orange C) Apple

Terms and conditions apply, visit website for details. Closing date: 31 October 2023.

Congratulations to the winners of our Spring competitions: Annabel Carroll, winner of the Alpaca Experience, and Solomon Beere, who won dinner for four people at Lussmanns.

CHILD

PSYCHOLOGY

Recent data from the NHS has revealed that as of December 2022, the number of people waiting for an autism assessment has increased by 40%. In Hertfordshire and surrounding counties, children may wait for one to three years for an autism assessment and even longer to receive the right support in school.

To address the growing waiting lists and lack of support for children with special educational needs, Your Way Psychology and Education has recently started supporting children and families in Tring, Berkhamsted, and surrounding villages by providing private autism assessments and support services. Their approach mirrors that of NHS services but with a wait list of a few weeks and not years.

Autism may present itself in a number of ways, including difficulties with friendships, communication, adjusting behaviour to suit various social contexts, and picking up on social cues; restricted or repetitive behaviours; an unusually deep fascination in a topic or object, and being under or over-sensitive to sounds, lights, texture, and smells.

Receiving an autism diagnosis is just the first step in getting the right support in school. Your Way Psychology and Education help parents work with schools and find a way forward for their child to receive the necessary support. Find out more at www.yourwaypsychology.co.uk

This article has been kindly supplied by Your Way Psychology, Buckingham.

Alura Candles Ltd - Tring

1

2

Bailey

7 Gents PRX Powermatic 80 £610

Fancy That - Tring

8 Pub quiz and murder mystery in a tube £16.50

9 Emma’s natural soaps £5

10 Jellycat Ricky Rain Frog handbag £39

11

Puddingstone Distillery - Tring

12

Tring Brewery - Tring

13 Ashwells Earl Grey Pale Ale 330ml £2.85

Whilst we have made every effort to ensure these details are correct, you must confirm directly with the retailer.

What our readers say:

Hi Team, just received your Living magazine and wanted to congratulate you on a great issue. Packed full of interesting articles and local insight. Even the ads are helpful and relevant. Thanks for publishing.

Richard

What our readers say:

Of all the magazines that come through my door Living is the only one I open and read Karis

BOOKING DEADLINES

WINTER 2023

2023/24

BOOKING & NEWS DEADLINE 25-10-23

DISTRIBUTION FROM 04-12-23

SPRING 2024

BOOKING & NEWS DEADLINE 24/1/24

DISTRIBUTION FROM 4/3/24

TO BOOK TELEPHONE: 01442

824300

BOOK MULTIPLE ISSUES TO SECURE YOUR PLACE AND RECEIVE A SERIES DISCOUNT.

Soy Candle 30cl £18

Hand Blown Glass Diffusers £20

3 Electric Diffuser £35

& Sons - Berkhamsted

4 White Gold Tourmaline & Diamond Pendant £3,295

5 Ania Haie Orb Silver £59

6 Kit Heath Entwine CZ Pendant £90

Red Beard felt pirate decoration £11.50

Box Moor Gin £40. £2 from every bottle sold goes to The Box Moor Trust

Contact advertising@livingmags.info to find out how you can promote your local seasonal products here.

Your apples... your juice!

We press, pasteurise & bottle your apples into delicious juice, which keeps for over a year

Alternatively, you can purchase our apple juice for private consumption or retail

Chiltern Ridge Apple Juice Ltd

Old Sax Lane Chartridge

Bucks HP5 2TB

Tel: 01494 776309

chilternridge chilternridg www.chilternridge.com

BARBICAN QUARTET

OUT OF TOWNERS

Independent businesses in rural areas like those surrounding Berkhamsted play an important role in the local economy and our community. These cafes, shops, nurseries and so on provide jobs, support other local businesses, and offer a real sense of community and identity. These are just some of the benefits of supporting independent shops in rural areas:

● Economic benefits: Independent shops keep money circulating in the local economy. When you shop locally, your money is more likely to be spent again in the community, supporting other businesses and creating jobs.

● Social benefits: Independent businesses provide a sense of community and identity. They are often a gathering place for locals - and groups such as cycle clubs and the WI - and they can help to foster a sense of belonging and connection.

● Environmental benefits: Independent shops often have a smaller environmental footprint than large chains. They may source their products locally, use less packaging, and have a lower carbon footprint.

● Personal benefits: Shopping at independent shops can be a more personal and rewarding experience. You can get to know the owners and staff, and you can be sure that you are supporting a local business.

We encourage you to support your local independent shops and cafes, such as those displayed here, and throughout the magazine.

How can you support your local rural businesses?

● Shop local first. When you need to buy something, try to find a local shop that sells it.

● Be a loyal customer. Make a point of shopping at the same independent shops whenever you can.

● Get involved in the community. Attend events at your local independent shops, and get to know the owners and staff.

● Spread the word. Tell your friends and family about the great independent shops in your area.

By following these tips, you can help to support independent shops in our rural areas and make a real difference to our community.

Hill Farm Barn Café

Country barns & garden offering simple menu of simple British foods. Enclosed garden with tractor, sandpit, ponies, pigs, goats & sheep. Dogs welcome inside & out. Friday to Monday 10am - 4pm inc Bank Holidays.

www.thehillfarmbarncafe.com

& Café

Run by our Community for the benefit of our Community. Open 7 days a week for essential groceries, brunch, light lunches, delicious cakes & coffee. Showcase for local produce & artisan gifts.

The Sports Field, Chesham Road, Wigginton HP23 6HH

www.wiggintonshop.org.uk

Nursery,

Peaceful perennial plant Nursery in a cottage garden. Homemade quiches with new potatoes, soups, homemade cakes & speciality afternoon teas. Open 10.30am - 5pm (10.30-4 winter hours). Closed Mondays.

Little Heath Farm Nursery, Little Heath Lane, Potten End HP4 2RY

www.dottieaboutcake.co.uk

A Cycling Cafe in the Heart of The Chilterns. Walkers & dogs welcome. Great coffee & teas, fresh cake, soups & bacon rolls and bicycle repairs on site. Open TuesdaySunday 8am to 4pm.

www.chilternvelo.co.uk

Chiltern Velo Café Poppies Café

Offers homemade cakes, soups, fresh sandwiches & savoury pastries. Bean to cup coffees, teas, cold drinks & specialist ice cream. Wet boots & muddy paws welcome. Friday to Monday 11am - 4pm.

www.poppiesaldbury.com

SUPPORT

LOCAL SHOPSRURAL CAFESAND

Cholesbury Lane, Hawridge Common, Hawridge HP5 2UQ

Aldbury Peace Memorial Institute, Toms Hill Road, Aldbury HP23 5SA

Little Heath

Tea Room and Tea Garden by Dottie about Cake

Hill Farm, Northchurch, Berkhamsted HP4 1LS

Wigginton Community Shop

IN PURSUIT OF WINTER SUN

Egypt

Home to the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, and countless ancient temples, Egypt delivers culture and sunshine in spades.

British tourists flock here for the dry, mild weather, addicted to the unique vibe that emanates from bustling markets like Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, offering an enticing blend of ancient and modern cultures.

Avg temp (winter): 20°C

Travel time: 5hrs (around £350 return)

Avg hotel room price: £70-£120

Avg price for evening meal: £10-£20

Lanzarote

Lanzarote offers a unique lunar-like landscape adorned with beaches, volcanic vistas, and a rich biosphere reserve.

It’s a haven for British travellers seeking winter sun, thanks to its consistent yearround climate and the short flight from the UK.

The island’s vibrant culture, colourful carnivals and relaxed vibe, combined with outdoor activities, make it an unbeatable winter destination.

Avg temp (winter): 20°C

Travel time: 4hrs (around £200 return)

Avg hotel room price: £80-£150

Avg price for evening meal: £10-£20

Andalucia

Andalucia in southern Spain, known for its sunshine, flamenco, and historic architecture.

With famed attractions such as the Alhambra in Granada and Seville’s stunning cathedral, the region brims with cultural riches.

Whether you prefer basking in the rich historical ambience of Egypt or Jordan, the vibrant cultures of Andalucia or Goa, or the beach vibes of Lanzarote, there’s a sunny corner of the world waiting to warm you

Andalucia’s vibrant local life, from tapas bars to traditional ferias, imbues it with a uniquely lively and welcoming winter atmosphere.

Avg temp (winter): 16°C

Travel time: 2hrs 50mins (around £150 return)

Avg hotel room price: £80-£130

Avg price for evening meal: £10-£25

Jordan

A winter holiday in Jordan means stepping into a world of awe-inspiring historical sites and warming desert sunshine.

The Petra archaeological site, Wadi Rum’s desert landscapes, and the buoyant Dead Sea

are highlights not to be missed, while Jordan’s warm hospitality, captivating Bedouin culture and exquisite Middle Eastern cuisine underpin its popularity.

Avg temp (winter): 13°C

Travel time: 5hrs (around £500 return)

Avg hotel room price: £80-£150

Avg price for evening meal: £10-£20

Goa

India’s beachfront jewel, Goa, is a paradise for sun-seeking Brits during winter.

Its stunning coastline boasts beautiful beaches, Portuguese-influenced architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a unique blend of Indian and European cultures, with the local markets and spice farms offering unique shopping and culinary experiences.

Avg temp (winter): 32°C

Travel time: 9hrs, usually with one stop (around £600 return)

Avg hotel room price: £60-£120

Avg price for evening meal: £5-£15

FRANBROWN Pilates

STEPS TO SECONDARY

SUCCESS

As a new school year looms, many children across the UK will be preparing to begin their journey at secondary (or senior) school. Naturally, this is an incredibly exciting time for them, but there may also be anxiety and trepidation.

Senior schools are invariably larger, more challenging and come with a higher expectation of (and from) pupils, so it is vital to prepare both your child and family for the challenges that many arise.

Get them organised

One of the greatest differences between primary and secondary school is the size of the site and the need to move around it. Instead of staying in one classroom as they did previously, children will be expected to navigate themselves from classroom to classroom.

Secondary school also follows a more structured timetable with fixed periods for each subject, with students having a greater

number of subjects to cover throughout the week. Naturally, this requires a certain level of organisation and timekeeping that was previously not necessary, and it’s often worth investing in a schedule planner and watch (or phone) that will help keep on track throughout the day.

Talk about social skills

With students coming from different primary schools your child will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a wider range of peers.

To facilitate that, they may need to refine social skills that allow them to make new friends, navigate different social groups, and adapt to the diversity of personalities and backgrounds.

Peer pressure can also become more prevalent in this environment, so it’s important to teach them the skills to help them make confident and independent decisions, whilst asserting boundaries and resisting negative peer influences.

The move from primary to secondary school can be daunting for a child, but there is plenty you can do as a parent to ensure a smooth and happy transition

Technology and social media provide other situations that parents ought to be aware of as social interactions bleed out of school time and into family time

Develop good habits

A healthy lifestyle contributes to overall wellbeing and academic success, so encourage your child to maintain a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and establish a consistent sleep schedule.

Proper nutrition, physical activity, and adequate rest can positively impact concentration and energy levels, as well as the ability to cope with stress.

Foster independence

Secondary school brings more responsibility and independence. With that in mind, encourage your child to take ownership of their education by completing homework and assignments on their own, as well as showing the confidence to seek help from teachers when needed.

They may also start making their own way to school, so discuss road safety and the need to establish bus or train time awareness if relevant.

Maintain a balance

Secondary school provides more opportunities for independence and self-expression. While your child may have more freedom to make choices and pursue their interests, they also need to balance their personal freedom with maintaining positive social connections. Encourage them to assert their individuality whilst also respecting the opinions and boundaries of others.

Technology and social media provide other situations that parents ought to be aware of as social interactions bleed out of school time and into family time. Sometimes, just encouraging your child to take a break from devices and screens can be invaluable to their mental health.

Plan for their future

In many ways, beginning secondary school is the first day of the rest of your child’s life. The independence they will develop during this phase of education prepares them for the increasing responsibilities and challenges they will face in higher education, the workplace, and adulthood itself.

Remember, this is a gradual process, and each child develops at their own pace. Be patient, supportive, and provide opportunities for your loved one to learn and grow as they transition to greater self-sufficiency, in school and beyond.

They may also start making their own way to school, so discuss road safety and the need to establish bus or train time awareness if relevant

UNSCRAMBLE THE LETTERS

Colour

HALLOWEEN WORDSEARCH

QUICK CROSSWORD

Across Clues:

3. Small sudden movement (6)

6. Move into position to be seen (6)

7. Alter body (9)

8. Move silently (5)

10. Performer (5)

14. Coloured cosmetic (9)

15. Likened too a large lizard (6)

16. Great comfort (6)

Down Clues:

1. Weather that is very hot (6)

2. Manner (6)

3. Add comments without permission (5)

4. Recently created (6)

5. Successor (4)

9. Refrigerator (6)

11. Sung by choir (6)

12. Show regret (6)

13. Useful (5)

14. British Nobleman (4)

Discover the magic of Lockers Park

Offering scholarships

7 October 2023

Register: www.lockerspark.co.uk

Across 3. Flinch, 6. Appear, 7. Shapewear, 8. Glide, 10. Actor, 14. Eyeshadow, 15. Dragon, 16. Luxury.

Down: 1. Baking, 2. Method, 3. Frape, 4. Newest, 5. Heir, 9. Icebox, 11. Choral, 12. Repent, 13. Handy, 14. Earl.

YARN

The route towards making your wardrobe a little greener by recycling your old clothes, renting instead of buying, and opting for more sustainable fabrics going forward

Fast fashion is falling spectacularly out of fashion. Of course, it’s still a thriving industry, but many of us are becoming wise to the fact that no one really benefits from outrageously cheap clothes made in farflung factories that fall apart within weeks.

Fortunately, it is becoming easier than ever to be eco-conscious AND supremely stylish. Better yet, many of these options will actually save you money in the long run.

What if you have lots of goodquality, high-ish value garments and simply want a wardrobe update? You might want to consider attending clothes swapping events or organise your own ‘swishing’ event with friends, neighbours, or the community. There are also several online platforms and apps that facilitate clothing and accessory exchange

Recycle

Many of us already partake in clothes recycling either by donating to clothes collection banks and charity shops or even just buying from charity shops. Alternatively, you can sell clothes directly online. But what if you have lots of good-quality, high-ish value garments and simply want a wardrobe update? You might want to consider attending clothes swapping events or organise your own ‘swishing’ event with friends, neighbours, or the community. There are also several online platforms and apps that facilitate clothing and accessory exchange.

Rent

Renting clothes has become a popular and sustainable option in the fashion industry. It allows you to enjoy wearing stylish clothing without the long-term commitment of owning them. There are various platforms and services that offer clothing rental options, from choosing one-off pieces for special events or occasions to subscription models. With the latter, you pay a monthly fee and receive a set number of clothing items to borrow each month based on your style preferences and size. This is an excellent way to maintain an up-to-date wardrobe without incurring huge costs and is also ideal for those with minimal storage space.

Be fabric aware

In a world where sustainability is becoming not just desirable, but necessary, these alternative fabrics and leathers are fastbecoming viable options for global brands who want to do their bit for our planet. You may in fact already own items that contain these materials, and they are well worth looking out for in your future purchases.

Tencel

Already a ubiquitous eco-fabric, Tencel is already used by several major clothing brands and designers. Produced by environmentally responsible processes from the sustainably sourced natural raw material wood, Tencel is not only a wonderfully soft and breathable material, it also combines beautifully with other fabrics such as cotton, silk and polyester for maximum versatility.

Econyl

Garment recycling has come a long way since the days of simply re-purposing a denim dress into a new handbag - though this is still a great idea! - Econyl re-generated nylon is made from nylon waste. With an emphasis on closing the loop, this brilliant and innovative brand confesses to having an appetite for

creating an infinite number of new products, but only if it is created using existing resources. With 10,000 tonnes of Econyl raw material saving 70,000 barrels of crude oil, this fabulous fabric is currently used to create everything from swimsuits to designer handbags and even carpets.

Piñatex

You may have heard of strawberry laces, but what about pineapple shoes? Astonishingly, Piñatex is a leather alternative made from the leaf waste of pineapples. This flufflike pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) gets mixed with a corn-based polylactic acid (PLA) and undergoes a mechanical process to create Piñafelt, a non-woven mesh which forms the base of all Piñatex collections. Coloured using natural pigments and coated with resin to give addition strength, durability and water resistance, this luxurious leatheralternative is already doing its bit to lessen environmental impact of mass leather production and chemical tanning.

Garment recycling has come a long way since the days of simply re-purposing a denim dress into a new handbag - though this is still a great idea!

Trained by The Devil’s Own

The beautiful Chilterns countryside around us provides a wonderful place to walk, especially in the autumn months, but there is one part of the land near Berkhamsted that still bears the scars of the First World War.

This area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and protected Green Belt land leads to Berkhamsted Common. There is a rich history here - not least the battle of Berkhamsted Common, which we mentioned in a previous issue - but here we look at a more recent part of our area’s past.

Thousands of young men took part in wartime training on Berkhamsted and Northchurch Commons before they were shipped to the Front With thanks to Richard North and Berhamsted Museum and Historical Society

You may have walked across the area and wondered about the dips and troughs across the land - and if you happened across an information board, you’ll know that these were, in fact, trenches dug by young men destined to be shipped out to the Western Front.

The training camp saw thousands of young soldiers pass through, housed in a tented camp situated in the Bridgewater Road area. From 1914 until 1919, this was where the Inns of Court Officers Training Corps (nicknamed The Devil’s Own) was based.

The Inns of Court Officers Training Corps (OTC) was a Territorial Army unit based in Chancery Lane in London, near the headquarters of the Law Society of England and Wales and next to Lincoln’s Inn. It was closely associated with the legal profession, and its cap badge included the arms of the four Inns of Court.

Once war broke out, its numbers expanded quickly, and it outgrew its London premises, and made its way to Berkhamsted.

A total of around 12,000 young soldiers spent months here in training, before they were allocated a place in a battalion and sent

off to fight. Part of their training involved digging trenches, in preparation for the real thing in Europe.The clay and flint would have made for a hard task, but would have prepared the young men for the similar conditions they would encounter overseas..

In the official history of the Corps [E.R.L. Errington, The Inns of Court Officers Training Corp during the Great War] it describes how they worked the young recruits hard, occasionally to the alarm of the locals: ‘For the squadron, long treks without touching a road, wide movements, distant reconnaissance; for the infantry, wood fighting, canal crossings, river crossings, big fights on the open commons and downs, local fighting among the enclosures, every form of open training was available. In the neighbouring villages, Nettleden, Little Gaddesden, Aldbury, Ashley Green, Bovingdon, the awakened villager turned to sleep again with greater security when he realised that the outburst of firing, and the swift rush of feet through the village street, betokened nothing more than a night raid of the Devil’s Own. …’

They also took part in drills and other practice - much of it taking place on what is now called Kitchener’s Field.

When the OTC finally left Berkhamsted ‘The whole Battalion was at the Station, and many of our good friends, the inhabitants of Berkhamsted, not a few of whom (among the young and fair) were observed to dash a telltale tear from downcast eye.’

Officers paid tribute to the town’s locals and mentioned Mr George Blincow, ‘the helpful Stationmaster’. George’s grave is in Rectory Lane Cemetery and you can read more about him on its excellent website at www.rectorylanecemetery.org.uk.

At the junction of New Road and Potten End Road, at Berkhamsted Golf Course, is a stone obelisk dedicated to the memory of those men of the training corps who died during the war. About 5,000 of the men who trained at Berkhamsted, were wounded, and nealy 2,200 were killed.

After the war a lot of the trench system was filled in and the rest became overgrown, but in 2013, a seven-month restoration project took place, which involved clearing away scrub and vegetation from the remaining trenches. It was carried out by 35 volunteers from the Chilterns Conservation Board and the Chiltern Society.

The trenches also made their way into literature, thanks to Berkhamsted author Graham Green, who mentions them in his 1978 novel The Human Factor. The book’s hero, Castle, remembers that it was unsafe to walk in the area ‘since the old trenches had been dug several feet deep...a stranger risked a sudden fall and a broken leg.’

forTurntopage40 includesourwalk,which trenches.avisittothe

WALKS AROUND TOWN

Berkhamsted Common

This 4.1 mile circular walk starts and ends at the rail station in Berkhamsted in the west of the county. Nearly all of the walk is within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the first half of the route follows part of the Hertfordshire Way, the 195-mile long-distance path around the whole of Hertfordshire. The walk includes ancient beech woods, open common land with long views, undulating agricultural land and several sites of historical interest. There are no stiles, but there are hills and muddy sections. Notable places of interest along this walk include:

• Berkhamsted Castle

• Kitchener’s Field and the World War I practice trenches

• Berkhamsted Common

• Alpine Meadow Nature Reserve.

There are many public footpaths on Berkhamsted Common, some leading into the National Trust’s 5000+ acre Ashridge Estate. This route, kindly supplied by CPRE, can serve as the starting point for a much longer walk through Ashridge if desired. The walk start and finish are at Berkhamsted rail station. (Point B on the map below). Nearest post code is HP4 2AJ.

> From the north side of the rail station (away from the town centre), walk north along Brownlow Road. There are houses on the left and Berkhamsted Castle on the

right. After one-tenth of a mile where Brownlow Road curves to the right, you keep going straight ahead onto Castle Hill.

> After about 80 yards, cross the street and follow the footpath as it enters the Berkhamsted School car park and Kitchener’s Field.

> For the next two miles you will be on The Hertfordshire Way ‘clockwise direction’, waymarked with white roundels.

> Walk straight on through the car park and past the tennis courts.

> The public footpath continues straight ahead in a northerly direction as you leave the car park. You will soon be on a grassy path heading along the valley towards a farm. Keep the hedge on your left.

> You will soon pass through a metal kissing gate into a horse pasture.

> Leave the horse pasture through another kissing gate and turn right. Walk up the farm lane keeping the farm buildings on your left.

> Where the farm lane turns right, you keep straight ahead on the footpath as it enters the wood. Although seemingly unmarked, there is a signpost just inside the wood on the right. Keep following the white ‘clockwise direction’ Hertfordshire Way waymarks.

> Walk about 30 yards to a path junction with a tall metal signpost marked

‘WW I Trenches’. Turn left here and proceed up the hill through a wood.

> At the top of the hill, turn left onto the broad level bridleway and proceed along Berkhamsted Common for about 120 yards to the first of the World War I practice trenches on the left.

> It’s worth taking some time at this very evocative place. You can walk along the trenches, read the informative signboard... ... and have a rest on the memorial bench.

> When you are ready to continue, keep following the white ‘clockwise direction’ Hertfordshire Way waymarks in a northwesterly direction along the upper path, with a wood on your right and open land on your left. There are good views to the south.

> About one third of a mile beyond the trenches, turn right at the path junction with a signpost.

> After only 90 yards, turn left at the next path junction and signpost. Walk ahead in a northwesterly direction - this is more of Berkhamsted Common. An ancient beech wood (Frithsden Beeches) is on your right.

> Continue in a northwesterly direction across a gravel drive, and straight ahead on the footpath, still following all of the white ‘clockwise direction’ Hertfordshire Way waymarks.

> At the next path junction there is a wooden signpost marked ‘Alpine Meadow’. Turn left here. You are now leaving the Hertfordshire Way. Walk in a southerly direction on the path through the wood.

> After one tenth of a mile, veer right to a metal kissing gate. Proceed through the gate and follow the path along a field edge, with horse pastures on the left and a hedge on the right.

> Continue straight ahead with the hedgerow on the right through three more gates and into the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust Alpine Meadow Nature Reserve. Follow the path as it goes down the hill through the meadow and a wood.

> Continue along the path as it starts uphill again. You will emerge through a metal kissing gate and the path then heads uphill between two fences, with a view of undulating fields on your left.

> At the top of the hill, pass through another gate and keep straight on with a field on your left and hedge on your right. At the end of this field, turn left (due east) and walk along the field edge to a path junction with a wooden bench and well-festooned, ivy-covered signpost. Turn right here.

> Now walk along the path at the edge of this next field, keeping the field on your right, and pass through a metal kissing gate at the far end of the field.

> Once through the gate turn left, and follow the grassy path immediately adjacent to the trees and hedgerow on your left (the high path, not the lower path in the valley).

> Follow this path as it gently descends and then starts to curve to the right and back uphill. Keep following the path through another metal kissing gate, then walk up the hill between two fences, emerging onto a lane with barns and houses.

> Turn left and walk along this lane. It soon meets the main road, Castle Hill. On your right is a small checkerboard wall dating from the 16th century when the stately home ‘Berkhamsted Place’ was built here (demolished in the mid 20th century).

> Now take the public footpath (The Lime Walk) from the top of Castle Hill down the hill. The path emerges onto Castle Hill Avenue. Keep walking in the same direction. You will soon reach Bridgewater Road where you turn left, and then cross the street to reach the rail station where you began the walk.

If you have enjoyed this walk, please consider supporting CPRE Hertfordshire in their efforts to protect and celebrate the Hertfordshire countryside for everyone to enjoy. For more information on their work and how you can help, please visit the website at www.cpreherts.org.uk.

BOOKS

books by local authors

Local authors! Let us know about your book releases. Email editorial@livingmags.info

Free Fall

By Sherry Hostler

We reviewed Sherry’s first book Hypnotic a while ago and couldn’t put it down. Well she’s done it again. This time, she focuses on Ellie who is in an unhappy marriage and feels alone. So when a handsome stranger comes along, Ellie is bowled over. But as their flirtation becomes more intense, Ellie decides to end things with Saul. But that’s not the end of it - soon a series of unexplained and threatening events lead Ellie to believe that Saul may still be around.

Sherry, who lives in Quainton, Bucks, with her husband, and her big fluffy bear of a dog, is now working on her third novel. We’re looking forward to it already!

Don’t Disturb the Dragon

By Rhiannon Findlay - Illustrations by Sian Roberts

Berkhamsted writer Rhiannon Findlay (author of the best-selling Ten Minutes to Bed series) has written a brilliant new bedtime adventure. This time, the princess’s baby brother has learned to crawl and has escaped from his cot! It’s up to the princess to find him before he disturbs the fearsome dragon. A lovely, rhyming, interactive story with charming illustrations.

Rhiannon has sold over a million picture books in 20 languages with her Ten Minutes to Bed series.

The French Chateau Dream

By Julie Caplin

Lose yourself in this wonderfully summery romance as you follow Hattie, who is in need of a summer escape. She jumps at the chance to work in a beautiful chateau in the Champagne region of France, with romance the last thing on her mind…And then she meets Luc. Will picnics and trips to foodie markets with him just lead to a summer romance or something deeper?

An ideal holiday read.

Tring-based Julie Caplin also writes as Jules Wake - this is her 22nd novel. She has sold over 2m books worldwide.

Land Girls at The Wartime Bookshop

By Lesley Eames

We first met Alice Kate and Naomi in The Wartime Bookshop, so we were delighted to find out more about the friends’ lives in the fictional Hertfordshire village of Churchwood during the Second World War in Lesley’s second book in the series. The three friends face a new set of challenges - including the two Land Girls helping Kate on Brimbles Farm. This heartwarming and nostalgic tale is a joy to read.

Hertfordshire author Lesley Eames has published 90 short stories and four historical sagas set around the time of WWI and into the Roaring 20s.

As the nights draw in this autumn, pass the evening with a title chosen from our

Wartime history

The Devil’s Own Time

By Rell & Abell

For Them’s Return and For Them’s Sake

By Richard North Men

of Berkhamsted

Berkhamsted in WW1

If you were intrigued by our local history feature about the trenches on Berkhamsted and Northchurch Commons, you can find out more about the period when the Inns of Court Officer Training Corps (The Devil’s Own) were camped in Berkhamsted in a book produced by the Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society. There’s a number of books that cover wartime Berkhamsted and Northchurch. You can order some at https://berkhamsted-history.org.uk/publications or at society meetings and events.

The MUST-SEE live music show in Herts!

4,900 specimens

10th

- 14th October 2023

David Evans Court Theatre at Pendley, Tring tickets from £15: pepper.org.uk

WHAT’S ON

WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO FOR DAILY UPDATES

ALWAYS CHECK with the event organiser beforehand. Opening times and restrictions may vary. If you would like to include your event in future magazines complete the form at: www.livingmags.info/submit-event.

WEDNESDAY 6 SEP

Fundraisers: Ashridge Golf Day

Ashridge Golf Club in support of the Hospice of St Francis. www. stfrancis.org.uk

Fundraisers: Charity Quiz

Robin Hood, Tring. 8.30pm every Wed. In aid of Hector’s House. www. robinhoodtring.co.uk

Talks: Hec-Talk Group

The XC Centre, Hemel 7.30-8.30pm. First and third Wednesday of the month. Open to all men to come together and talk. tinyurl. com/5n8c6p3v

THURSDAY 7 SEP

Music: Brave Rival Tring Rugby Club, 8.30pm. www.bluesbartring.co.uk

FRIDAY 8 SEP

Fairs / Festivals: Heritage Open Days

Annual festival runs to 17 Sep. Celebrating our local communities and stories with both digital and in-person events. Visit the website to learn more. Pre-booking required via eventbrite. berkhamstedhistory.org.uk

Talks: Cyber and Fraud Event

Hemel Hempstead Library, 10.30am-4pm. Run by Hertfordshire Constabulary. www.owl.co.uk/herts

SATURDAY 9 SEP

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market High Street, Tring, 9am12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. www.tringfarmersmarket. co.uk

Fairs / Festivals: St Bartholomew’s Church Fete

St Bartholomew Church, Wigginton 12-4pm. Stalls, dog show, entertainment, cream teas & BBQ. stbartholomewschurch.org/ calendar/

Music: Nick Tomalin’s Quintet: Shades of Shearing BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 8pm. www. bjazz.org

SUNDAY 10 SEP

Exhibitions: Halton House

Open Day 10am-4pm. A rare opportunity to view the ground floor rooms of Halton House. www. heritageopendays.org.uk

Gardens: Hospice of St Francis Garden Party Ashridge House, Berkhamsted 12-5pm. With food, entertainment, dog show and ‘shop local’ village. www.stfrancis.org.uk

Music: Piano & More Tring Parish Church, 3-4pm. Bach, Finzi and Tchaikovsky. Soloists Arwen Newband & Anna Le Hair. Followed by tea. Free entry; donations to expenses welcome. pianoand-more.org.uk

MONDAY 11 SEP

Arts & Crafts: Tring Yarn Bomb Knit & Natter Tring Library, 1-2.30pm. Also 9 & 23 Oct. www.instagram. com/tringyarnbomb

WEDNESDAY 13 SEP

Talks: The Spy Who Solved his Own Murder Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society, Town Hall, Berkhamsted, 8pm. 2006 assassination of ex-KGB spy Alexander Litvinenko. berkhamstedhistory.org.uk

FRIDAY 15 SEP

Fairs / Festivals: BerkoBeerFest

Berkhamsted Cricket Club. 6-11pm. Also 16 Sep 12-11pm.

Real ales & craft beers from breweries in & around the Chilterns. Friday Comedy Night with 4 top comedians from Edinburgh Fringe & TV. Plus 9 local bands performing Saturday. berkobeerfest.co.uk

Film: Tring Cinema Nora Grace Hall. Doors 7.30pm, film 8pm. www. tringcinema.com

SATURDAY 16 SEP

Fairs / Festivals: Chilterns Heritage and Culture Festival To 1 Oct. Walks, talks and exclusive tours. chilternsociety .org.uk/heritage-festival

Fundraisers: Skydive 2023 Why not push the boundaries and take to the skies to support The Hospice of St Francis! www.stfrancis.org.uk

Exhibitions: Tactile Explorers: Under the sea Natural History Museum, Tring, 11am-12noon. For blind and partially sighted children aged 5+ and their families. Booking essential. www.nhm. ac.uk/visit/tring

Comedy: Simon Evans Have We Met Court Theatre, 8pm. www.get-stuffed.biz

SUNDAY 17 SEP

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. www.facebook. com/berkofm

Fairs / Festivals: Mind Body Spirit Wellbeing Show Chesham Chiltern Hills Academy, Chartridge Lane, Chesham, 11am-5pm. Treat yourself to a holisitc therapy or 1-1 reading. Gifts with a difference. Relax with friends and family. www.deerspirit.co.uk

Kids: Storytelling for Kids

Also Sun 24. Rectory Lane Cemetery, Berkhamsted, 2-3pm. Perfect for children from 4-8 years old. chilternsociety.org.uk/ heritage-festival

Music: Tring Chamber Music Summer Season

Hastoe Village Hall, 6pm. Please note early start time. Beethoven 130 Grosse Fuge. Tickets £20 | Under 18’s £10. Booking required. www. tringchambermusic.co.uk

MONDAY 18 SEP

Film: Empire of Light Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. Also Tues 19. www. berkhamstedfilmsociety. co.uk

TUESDAY 19 SEP

Business: Tring

BusinessMart Breakfast

7.45-9am. Join the friendly BusinessMart networking group. www.tringtogether. org.uk

Talks: The Volunteer Centre

Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 10.30am-12pm. Third Tuesday of each month to

talk about volunteering and local volunteering roles. www.support4dacorum. org.uk

Exhibitions: Tactile Tours Natural History Museum, Tring, 2.30-3.30pm. For blind and partially sighted adults and their families or friends. Booking essential. www. nhm.ac.uk/visit/tring

WEDNESDAY 20 SEP

Talks: The Story of Nica Rothschild High Street Baptist Church, Tring, 8pm. tringlocalhistorymuseum. org.uk

FRIDAY 22 SEP

Sport: Golf Day Buckingham Golf Club. In aid of PACE. thepacecentre. org/event/charity-golf-day

SATURDAY 23 SEP

Exhibitions: Tring And District Model Railway Club Exhibition Pitstone Memorial Hall, 10.15am-4.30pm. 8 layouts in a range of scales plus items for sale, light refreshments and free parking on site. www.tringmrc.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 27 SEP

Fundraisers: West Herts 21 Century Hospital Solution Fundraising Dinner

Berkhamsted Town Hall, 7pm. £35. Are you satisfied with our hospital service? Pre-booking required. gordonyearwood@gmail.com

THURSDAY 28 SEP

Business: Berko Interchange

Waite & Rose Café Berkhamsted, 8.30-9.30am. Business networking meeting. www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/berko-interchangetickets-547761187457

Fairs / Festivals: Berkhamsted

International Graham Greene Festival

To 1 Oct. 24th Graham Greene International Festival. Visit website for more information. grahamgreenebt.org/festival

Music: Toby Walker USA Tring Rugby Club, 8.30pm. www.bluesbartring.co.uk

MONDAY 2 OCT

Film: Broker

Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. Also Tues 3. www. berkhamstedfilmsociety. co.uk

WEDNESDAY 4 OCT

Fundraisers: Charity Quiz Robin Hood, Tring. 8.30pm every Wed. In aid of Hector’s House. www. robinhoodtring.co.uk

Talks: Hec-Talk Group

The XC Centre, Hemel 7.30-8.30pm. First and third Wednesday of the month. Open to all men to come together and talk. tinyurl. com/5n8c6p3v

THURSDAY 5 OCT

Music: Sam Kelly’s Station House

Tring Rugby Club, Tring. 8.30pm. bluesbartring.co.uk

FRIDAY 6 OCT

Talks: The Volunteer Centre High Street Baptist Church, Tring, 10-11am. Talk about volunteering and local volunteering roles. www. support4dacorum.org.uk

Comedy: Stephen K Amos Oxymoron

The Court Theatre, Tring, 8pm. £18. www.get-stuffed.biz

SATURDAY 7 OCT

Music: Bernardi Music Trio St Mary’s Church, Drayton Beauchamp, 6.30pm. benefice3@gmail.com

Music: Classical Concert St Mary’s Church, Drayton Beauchamp, near Tring, 7.15pm. All proceeds to help St Mary’s Church. benefice3@gmail.com

Music: The Chiltern Sinfonietta

Victoria Hall, Akeman Street, Tring, 7.30pm. Admission free with retiring collection. Orchestral Music by Richard Strauss, Faure and Mendelssohn. www. chilternsinfonietta.com

Music: Alex Clarke Quartet BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 8pm. Full Bar facilities. www.bjazz.org

SUNDAY 8 OCT

Music: Piano & More Tring Parish Church, 3-4pm. Recital of French clarinet and piano music. Performers: Alison Eales and Anna Le Hair. Free entry; donations to expenses welcome. piano-and-more.org.uk

Sunday 17th September: Mind Body Spirit Wellbeing Show

SUNDAY 8 OCT (CONT)

Music: Folk Tales

The Old Town Hall, Berkhamsted, 7pm. Behind the Mirror. www. behindthemirror.org

TUESDAY 10 OCT

Fundraisers: The Pepper Show 2023

Court Theatre, Tring. To 14 Oct. Live music performed by a wealth of local talent. www.pepper.org.uk

WEDNESDAY 11 OCT

Talks: Laura Ashley Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 10.30am. theartssociety.org/ tring-park

Talks: Arts & Craft Gardens and Movement Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society, Town Hall, Berkhamsted, 8pm. berkhamsted-history.org.uk

THURSDAY 12 OCT

Talks: Rothschild’s ‘Fine Collection’ of Cassowaries Natural History Museum, Tring, 7-8pm. Booking required. www.nhm.ac.uk/ visit/tring

Business: Tring BusinessMart

Join the friendly BusinessMart networking group. www.tringtogether. org.uk

FRIDAY 13 OCT

Fundraisers: Pop Up Restaurant

Nora Grace Hall, Tring, 7.30pm. Booking essential. www.tringtogether.org.uk

SATURDAY 14 OCT

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market

High Street, Tring, 9am12.30pm. 2nd and 4th

Saturday of each month. www.tringfarmersmarket. co.uk

Exhibitions: Arts and Crafts Exhibition St Mary’s Church, Ivinghoe, 10.30an-4.30pm. Also Sun 15 Oct 10.30am3.30pm. pitstone.co.uk/ event/exhibition-of-artscrafts-2

Music: Walk in Beauty Ivinghoe Town Hall, 5pm. Concert presented by The Ridgeway Ensemble. mrwslapton@gmail.com

Music: Barbican Quartet Berkhamsted Civic Centre 7.30pm. www. berkhamstedmusic.co.uk

SUNDAY 15 OCT

Fundraisers: Mud Pack Challenge Ashridge House, Berkhamsted. Get ready to get filthy for The Hospice of St Francis! www. stfrancis.org.uk/supportus/events/detail/mud-packchallenge

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market

High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. 3rd Sunday of every month. www. facebook.com/berkofm

MONDAY 16 OCT

Film: The Drover’s Wife

Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. Also Tues 17. www. berkhamstedfilmsociety. co.uk

FRIDAY 20 OCT

Music: Ma Bessie & Her ‘Pigfoot’ Band After Hours Show

Tring Rugby Club. 8.30pm. www. bluesbartring.co.uk

THURSDAY 26 OCT

Business: Berko Interchange

Waite & Rose Café

Berkhamsted, 8.30-9.30am. Business networking meeting. www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/berko-interchangetickets-547761187457

Fundraisers: Alvin the Ultimate Elvis Tribute

The Gatsby, Berkhamsted, 7.30-11.45pm. tockify.com/ opendoorberkhamsted/ detail/142/1698345000000

Comedy: Mark Steel Court Theatre, Tring, 8pm. www.get-stuffed.biz

FRIDAY 27 OCT

Film: Tring Cinema

Nora Grace Hall. Doors 7.30pm, film 8pm. www.tringcinema.com

SATURDAY 28 OCT

Music: Peter Rudeforth

Jazz Band

BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 8pm. www. bjazz.org

MONDAY 30 OCT

Film: Hit the Road

Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. Also Tues 31. www. berkhamstedfilmsociety. co.uk

WEDNESDAY 1 NOV

Fundraisers: Charity Quiz

Robin Hood, Tring. 8.30pm every Wed. In aid of Hector’s House. www. robinhoodtring.co.uk

Talks: Hec-Talk Group

The XC Centre, Hemel 7.30-8.30pm. First and third Wednesday of the month. Open to all men to come together and talk. tinyurl. com/5n8c6p3v

THURSDAY 2 NOV

Music: Consummate Rogues Tring Rugby Club. 8.30pm. www. bluesbartring.co.uk

FRIDAY 3 NOV

Fairs / Festivals: Tring Book Festival

To 12 Nov. The programme will include debates, interviews, presentations and workshops from renowned authors across multiple venues. www. tringbookfestival.co.uk

SATURDAY 4 NOV

Fairs / Festivals: Tring Festival of Fire Tring Park Cricket Club. To support sport in the local community. www. tringfireworks.co.uk

Fairs / Festivals: Berkhamsted Town Fireworks

Gates 6pm for 7pm start. A charitable event at Berkhamsted Cricket Club. www.berkobang.org

SUNDAY 5 NOV

Fairs / Festivals: BerkoFest Book Festival Berkhamsted Town Hall, 10am-7pm. Acclaimed authors will participate in readings, panels, Q&As, book signings, storytelling and interactive workshops. tickets.matterpay.com/s/ berkofest

WEDNESDAY 8 NOV

Talks: Propaganda Posters on WW1 & WW2

Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society, Town Hall, Berkhamsted, 8pm. berkhamsted-history.org. uk

SATURDAY 11 NOV

Markets & Sales: Tring

Farmers Market

High Street, Tring, 9am12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. www.tringfarmersmarket. co.uk

Exhibitions: Little Gaddesden One Day Art Exhibition and Sale

Little Gaddesden Village Hall, Church Road, HP4 1NX. 10.30am-4pm. littlegaddesden.org.uk/clubsand-institutions/art-club/

Exhibitions: Tactile Explorers: Under the sea Natural History Museum, Tring, 11am-12noon. For blind and partially sighted children aged 5+ and their families. Booking essential. www.nhm.ac.uk/ visit/tring

Music: Zemlinksy Trio

Berkhamsted Civic Centre 7.30pm. www. berkhamstedmusic.co.uk

SUNDAY 12 NOV

Music: Piano and More Tring Parish Church, 3-4pm. piano-and-more.org.uk

Music: Untold Stories

Berkhamsted Old Town Hall, 7pm. Behind the Mirror. www.behindthemirror.org

MONDAY 13 NOV

Film: Living Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. Also Tues 14. www. berkhamstedfilmsociety. co.uk

TUESDAY 14 NOV

Business: Tring BusinessMart

Join the friendly BusinessMart networking group. www.tringtogether. org.uk

THURSDAY 16 NOV

Music: Guy Tortora

Band plus Tyzac & Tortora

Tring Rugby Club, 8pm. www.bluesbartring.co.uk

FRIDAY 17 NOV

Film: Tring Cinema

Nora Grace Hall. Doors 7.30pm, film 8pm. www. tringcinema.com

SATURDAY 18 NOV

Music: Big Band Swing BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 8pm. www. bjazz.org

SUNDAY 19 NOV

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market

High St, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. Third Sun of every month. www.facebook.com/ berkofm

SATURDAY 25 NOV

Fairs / Festivals: Tring Together Christmas Festival

Tring High Street and Victoria Hall, 3.30-8.30pm. With stalls, fun fair and music plus there will be plenty to see with festive stalls in The Victoria Hall, special guests in the Memorial Garden and music stages around the town to showcase local performers. www. tringtogether.org.uk

SUNDAY 26 NOV

Fairs / Festivals: Berkhamsted Festival of Light

Berkhamsted High Street, 3.30-6pm. With entertainment from local musicians, stalls, Santa and the Elves Posting House in the

Civic Centre, fairground rides, St. Peter’s Church service, best dressed shop window competition and more. www. berkhamstedtowncouncil. gov.uk

MONDAY 27 NOV

Film: Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom

Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. Also Tues 28. www. berkhamstedfilmsociety. co.uk

THURSDAY 30 NOV

Business: Berko Interchange

Waite & Rose Café

Berkhamsted, 8.309.30am. Business networking meeting. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ berko-interchangetickets-547761187457

SATURDAY 2 DEC

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market High Street, Tring, 9am12.30pm. Also 16 Dec. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

Music: Behind the Mirror Berkhamsted Civic Centre

7.30pm, A celebration of festive music from medieval carols to new versions of traditional Christmas songs. www.berkhamstedmusic.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 6 DEC

Fundraisers: Charity Quiz The Robin Hood, Tring. 8.30pm every Wed. In aid of Hector’s House. www. robinhoodtring.co.uk

Comedy: Rich Hall Shot from Cannons Court Theatre, 8pm. www.get-stuffed.biz

Li ve life to the full with DENTAL IMPLANTS

Bow House a Centre for Dental Excellence provides you with excellent dentistry in a friendly and welcoming environment. The surgery is specifically tailored to the placement of dental implants which are a permanent solution to tooth loss.

Spread the cost...

We realise that whilst many people would like to benefit from the treatments available, paying in one amount can prove difficult. To enable you to benefit from the SMILE you want now, we can offer a range of finance plans enabling you to spread the cost. *Subject to status, terms and conditions apply

What better gift can your dentist give you than being pain free?

When you need an emergency dentist it’s reassuring to know that you are in capable and experienced hands here at Bow House a Centre for Dental Excellence. If you’re suffering from severe dental pain, or any other dental emergency then please call the practice as soon as possible and your dental needs will be dealt with.