Berkhamsted Living - Winter 2022

Welcome to the Winter issue!

s this magazine arrives on your doormat, we imagine you’ll all be busy planning for the Christmas holidays. When you’re shopping for gifts please take a look at ‘shop local’ for ideas. As our ‘keep it local’ feature explains, our local retailers and small businesses all need our support, now more than ever.

As always, the magazine includes lots of local news. We also have a round-up of local events and days out in our What’s On section - there’s lots of festive events and things to look forward to in the New Year too.

Our history feature focuses on the family histories entwined with the town’s Bailey & Sons jewellers, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. We’d love to hear from other local companies who are celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2023.

In the garden we keep it bright with berries, and we’re staying warm and on trend with wool in our fashion feature. There’s puzzles for children, and books from local authors to read on cosy nights in.

We have some fabulous prizes to win toowith a Kettler table tennis table and bundles of games from Winning Moves up for grabssomething for the whole family to enjoy!

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

Happy reading!

Alison and Naomi

Owner & Editor

LOCAL FOCUS

Santa Claus is coming to town!

Santa’s already planning his route to visit as many streets in Berkhamsted as he can this December.

His elves have been scouting around and have devised the route - find out more on Berkhamsted Rotary Club’s website at berkorotary.org.

There will be a list of streets to download, so see if you can find when he’s coming your way. On the night, you’ll be able to track exactly when he’s coming past your house, thanks to Tracker 247.

From 2-24 December, Santa will be out and about visiting the residential streets of Berkhamsted from 6-8pm on weekdays and 4-8pm on weekends, before he flies off to make those all-important deliveries!

Take on treasurer reins!

Alocal charity that helps children and adults with disabilities and special needs enjoy riding and interacting with horses is looking for a treasurer.

Gaddesden Place RDA is a self-funding charity that provides equine interactions and experiences to more than 100 children and adults.

They are looking for someone to take over the reins from their existing treasurer who is retiring. Contact info@gaddesdenplacerda.org.uk or call 01442 246924.

Sports centre update

Residents will have to wait until the new year for the latest update on the proposed upgraded sports centre for Berkhamsted.

A public consultation ran for six weeks until the end of March this year on the proposal, which includes a teaching pool and water confidence area, new floodlit 3G pitch, a larger fitness suite, improved group exercise studios, an outdoor fitness area, spa and treatment zone and better catering facilities at the existing Douglas Gardens site.

Dacorum Council told Berkhamsted Living as we went to press: ‘We are currently reviewing options in relation to this project. We will provide a further update in the New Year.’

High Street to lose another bank branch

Berkhamsted High Street’s NatWest branch is set to close on 25 January 2023. The shutdown is part of a move by the bank to close 43 of its branches across the UK.

Nat West has blamed the closures on people using its online services with counter transactions reducing by 64% from January 2019 to January 2022, according to a report in The Mirror.

The bank has said it will contact vulnerable customers about the closure, and that face-to-face transactions can still be carried out at Post Offices.

LOCAL FOCUS

Anine-year-old schoolgirl from Berkhamsted has started a campaign to change the language used around autism, and has written to the Prime Minister and started a petition in a bid to make a difference.

Clementine Jenkins, a pupil at Greenway Primary School, has recently been diagnosed with autism - usually called autism spectrum disorder or ASD. She told Berkhamsted Living: ‘I wanted to speak out because it’s something that affects lots of people, not just me. There are over 75 million people in the world that have autism. I just don’t find calling autism a disorder very fair or right. It’s what makes me who I am. I wanted to start this petition so that people actually notice how unfair this is. It is an issue and issues need fixing. I hope by doing this that people are inclined to sign my petition. Let’s make this right together!’

Her Mum Louise added: ‘As we explained more to her about everything she started to say that she didn’t think it was right to call it a disorder because it’s just a part of who she is and that she’s proud of it. This half term she decided that she wanted to try to change this and we looked at various things we could do to try to help her.

‘She wrote the letter herself and I said that we could send it to our local

MP and the Prime Minister. We have also sent it to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. In addition to this she wanted to send it to the King and Queen Consort and I suggested the Prince and Princess of Wales might be interested because of their work with mental health.’

Hertfordshire-based ADHD and autism charity Addvance (www.add-vance.org) also publicised Clementine’s story.

Louise added: ‘I am so unbelievably proud of her for taking a stand on something that she believes so passionately in and for trying to change something for the better not just for her but for others too.’

People can sign the petition on Change.org at https://chng.it/yjLRnkZKkJ.

Clinical Animal Behaviourist & Trainer Hanne Grice is set to feature on the BBC’s One Show after filming with actor, comedian and EastEnders star Brian Conley in the summer. Hanne talked to Brian about dogs and using talking buttons (large keys that say words such as walk, out, food and so on when the dog presses them) and other ways we can learn to ‘speak dog’. The piece was filmed in Stockwood Park, Luton.

Bridgewater Sinfonia heats up Berko

Berkhamsted’s own Bridgewater Sinfonia brought a concert of Spanish light and colour together with a touch of Oriental heat at St Peter’s Church in the autumn.

The concert started with a work by Jules Massenet, a French opera composer, which was followed by the Carmen Fantasy by Pablo de Sarasate. The final work was Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade.

The orchestra returned in November to perform a Schubert Overture, Liszt’s Piano Concerto Nº 2 and Dvorak’s 7th Symphony.

The Bridgewater Sinfonia combines the talents of professional and amateur musicians, performing four concerts a year. On 4 March 2023 they will bring Brahms Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77, and Mahler’s Symphony No 4 in

G major to St Peter’s, and Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A minor in June. Find out more at www.bridgewater-sinfonia. org.uk

LOCAL FOCUS

Get in a pickle and out of the ‘kitchen’!

Pickleball is a fast-growing racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. In the US, there are now 5 million pickleball players. The club tells us that it’s an easy sport to learn, with no previous racquet sport experience necessary.

If you fancy trying a new sport, head down to Berkhamsted Leisure Centre and try one of the free Saturday and Thursday pickleball sessions run by West Herts Wizards.

Join in the fun and find out what staying out of the ‘kitchen’ means in this enjoyable sport for all ages and all abilities.

They told us: ‘Pickleball is a great way to meet other people, it will keep you fit and active, whatever your age, and you’ll be amazed how quickly you pick up the basics. The rules are simple and it can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive sport once you become experienced.’

Pickleball is played indoors and the club is growing fast with 50-plus members. The sessions are all-inclusive for all ages and all abilities and are organised by experienced club leaders.

Free taster sessions are held on Thursdays and Saturdays from 1-3pm. There’s no need to book, equipment is provided - just turn up in your sports gear and indoor sports shoes.

As Living went to press, a public inquiry was under way into London Luton Airport’s expansion plans.

The inquiry began at the end of September and was expected to last 10 weeks.

The inquiry addresses an application to increase passenger capacities from 18 million to 19 million a year and amend noise contours.

A pre-inquiry meeting held in the summer suggested specific topics that would be considered would include: air quality, noise impact, climate change, socio-economic implications, sustainability, overall planning balance, and consistency with the local development plan and other policies.

For the latest information, visit www.lutonrising.org.uk/consultation

The game is played on a smaller court than tennis, and six members have trained as Pickleball Leaders through Pickleball England, and will be going into local schools after Christmas to introduce the sport to the younger generation.

Club members went to the Pickleball English Nationals in Bolton recently and came back with four bronze medals.

To find out more, visit www.westhertswizards.co.uk, call 07915 069057 or email westhertswizards@gmail.com.

Help spread the joy of reading

Children’s literacy charity Schoolreaders is looking for more volunteers who can help spread the joy of reading to children in Hertfordshire primary schools – especially around Hemel Hempstead and Tring.

A recent survey of young people by the National Literacy Trust (NLT) revealed that reading enjoyment had reached a 15-year low, rallying slightly in the pandemic before declining again by 2022, especially among those from disadvantaged backgrounds and among boys.

Schoolreaders is looking for volunteers of all ages – from students to retirees - who can listen to children read in a local primary school.

Schoolreaders volunteers act as trusted role models in the classroom alongside the class teachers, not only helping children improve their reading but also by being a positive influence.

Schoolreaders volunteers are asked to listen to children read once a week during term time and to commit to an academic year.

To find out more visit www.schoolreaders.org

Campaign for hospital continues

Around 80 people attended a public presentation on West Herts 21 Century Hospital Solution in Berkhamsted Town Hall this autumn.

Gordon Yearwood is the founder of the nonprofit organisation, West Herts 21 Century Hospital Solution, which was formed to achieve a purpose built, 21st century, centrally located hospital, for all the people of West Hertfordshire. You may have read our previous articles on the subject.

He told Living: ‘The meeting was attended by around 80 people, with many asking very important questions afterwards. Donations to help with achieving the 21st century hospital solution we need were gratefully received following the presentation.

‘The presentation was able to demonstrate how the people and frontline workforce have been badly let down this century, by our very highly

paid NHS senior decision makers. We perform very poorly in relation to other countries who spend similar amounts of money on their healthcare provision. There is an opportunity for a completely new 21st century, more accessible, centrally located hospital for all the people of West Hertfordshire, but our local NHS senior staff want to spend almost twice the necessary amount of money on a skyscraper hospital (20 metres taller than Grenfell Tower) within the existing cramped Watford General Hospital site.

‘They have provided no clinical reason for their wasteful and potentially unsafe plan, (mothers trying to get to maternity with more than 20,000 football fans nearby), which if it went ahead, would also cause severe additional disruption during its long construction period.

‘The political turmoil since the presentation has now somewhat settled down and West Herts 21 Century Hospital Solution is continuing to fight for a better future hospital solution for the people of West Hertfordshire. Helpful donations can be made at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ westherts21stcenturyhospital.’

LOCAL FOCUS

Berkhamsted Citizens Association (BCA) will be having a really busy time over the next two years as it looks toward celebrating its 100th year in 2024.

Committee member Susan Johnson told Berkhamsted Living: ‘The BCA was founded in 1924 when promoting ‘citizenship’ was all the rage. Very few organisations have made it through to a centenary, so we are proud to be one of them. The BCA will celebrate its centenary over 2024/5 with a number of small events that will benefit the town and its appearance.

‘First we hope to renovate a significant town landmark – we can’t reveal which yet! Then we hope to reissue our Footpath Map as a centenary publication – a collector’s item as well as a practical one. There are several places around here where it is lovely to walk, but that have no GPS signal. The Footpath Map (£2.95 from Waterstones and local NT and community shops) is for those who want to walk from one refreshment house in the Chiltern Hills to another!

‘Finally, we hope to write up our history of the past 40 years.’

The BCA is the civic and amenity society for Berkhamsted and Northchurch and the oldest subscription society in the town; it’s the oldest

civil society in the North Thames arc (the counties surrounding London to the north).

A civic amenity society is an organisation that operates in a community separate from government (local and national) and business. The BCA has no political or faith allegiance, and tries to represent the views of the person in the street, as itself or as a representative on the committees of other organisations.

It promotes interest in the built environment and surrounding countryside; and organises local events such as talks, walks, awards and competitions – particularly the hustings associated with a General Election.

The society’s constant workload is scrutinising planning applications in Berkhamsted and Northchurch, particularly in the conservation areas, through its Townscape Group, which also judges and presents the Environment Award at its AGM. It is also concerned with the Green Belt and AONB.

Events planned by the BCA between now and its AGM and Environment Awards on Thursday 30 March 2023 in the Town Hall include:

• The annual New Year’s Day walk starting at 10.30 am from the Railway Station.

• MP Gagan Mohindra, will be speaking and taking questions at a meeting in the Town Hall, Great Hall on Thursday 19 January 2023 at 8pm. Government business permitting! Members and their friends and families are welcome - you can join on the night.

• A talk is also planned for February. The last one was on Luton Hoo.

To join the BCA email membership@ berkhamstedcitizens.org.uk. Membership is £10 a year and includes newsletters as well as email alerts.

Berkhamsted shop reopens as Reloved Boutique

If you’re still looking for a party frock for a Christmas or New Year event, head to Rennie Grove Hospice Care’s Reloved Boutique, which has re-opened after a renovation at its Berkhamsted High Street branch.

Stocking second-hand designer labels and high-end fashion for women, men and children, the new-look boutique will be the go-to destination for sustainable fashion this Christmas party season.

The shop got a facelift, with updated shop fixtures and fittings, and in line with the focus on sustainability, many, such as the cash desk and items of furniture, were repurposed. The shop also has a new look thanks to the introduction of a new grey-green colour palette.

The new-look shop was reopened by Deborah Gould, director of retail & trading at Rennie Grove, who was joined for the cutting of the ribbon by the shop’s loyal volunteers and staff.

Deborah said: ‘This is the second of Rennie Grove’s Reloved Boutiques and we’re delighted to be bringing this concept to Berkhamsted. Shoppers are increasingly choosing to buy second-hand clothing to reduce the environmental impact of their wardrobe. We believe that this shouldn’t be restricted to everyday items and our Reloved Boutiques were established out of a passion for bringing secondhand exquisite party pieces to the high street.

The shop is open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, and welcomes donations.

Charity helps make Christmas merry

Anew charity will make sure struggling families will receive Christmas presents for their children this year.

Toy Hub was set up by a group of local parents to support families and carers in the Tring and Berkhamsted areas including all the surrounding villages. Its aim is to ensure no child goes without a present to open on Christmas morning.

New and like-new toys and gifts have been donated by the local community and businesses at various drop off points during October and November, and deliveries have been coordinated by volunteers.

Applications from recipients, and donations, closed on 14 November.

Find out more at www.toyhub.org.

Keep warm - read a book!

Berkhamsted Library has been designated as a warm space by Herts County Council. The network of Warm Spaces has been developed to offer residents a place to stay warm in light of the rise in energy bills.

Pop into the library for more details.

LOCAL FOCUS

Echor Music gets ready for Christmas

t the start of the pandemic, three local professional classical musicians formed Echor Music, an orchestra dedicated to creating extraordinary live performances to Chiltern audiences. As an area that does not boast a wide range of concert and recital halls, the Echor founders have found a way to use this as a positive.

Eva Thorarinsdottir, creative director of the orchestra, said: ‘We love to bring our audiences

to unusual venues that they might not have been to before. Whether it’s a tiny church you never noticed, an agricultural barn or even a golf club; you’re always in for a surprise.’

AEchor’s first season saw it perform a Beethoven Symphony at Deans’ Hall in Berkhamsted, followed by the brilliant Clare O’Connell on cello performing a selection of works from her latest album ‘the Isolated Cellist’.

More recently, the orchestra performed a new musical score to the iconic horror classic Nosferatu at Dundridge Manor, St. Leonards and received rave reviews.

Echor is now preparing something completely different for its special Christmas concerts, which will take place on 16 December at St. Mary’s Church, Old Amersham and 17 December at St. Mary’s Church, Wendover.

Arenowned IV therapy clinic on London’s Wimpole Street is opening at The Wellness Hub in Berkhamsted.

Founded in 2005 by medical director Dr Joshua Berkowitz, IV Boost takes a holistic approach to health and wellness to help boost and restore the body’s natural ability to be well, energised and able to resist ageing. It offers IV vitamin therapy; vitamin shots; ozone therapy; diagnostic testing, and aesthetic treatments.

‘We are delighted to welcome Dr Josh and the IV Boost to The Wellness Hub and are excited to be offering our customers these fantastic therapies,’ said Emma James, MD and owner of The Wellness Hub on Lower Kings Road.

Berkhamsted-based pub company the Oakman Group has just celebrated the planting of one million trees.

The company, which owns seven pubs in Hertfordshire including Berkhamsted’s Kings Arms, achieved this through a collaboration with not-for-profit organisation Tree-nation, where every cup of coffee sold across the group’s pubs and hotels has resulted in planting a tree, helping to offset some of the daily carbon emissions produced by the business and its stakeholders.

To mark the occasion, founder and chairman Peter Borg-Neal planted an oak tree in the recently opened 1.2 acre Oakman Kitchen Garden at The Akeman Inn in Kingswood (between Bicester and Aylesbury).

Financial advice for the future you imagine.

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Advances in technology and the way we can help clients and their families means that face to face in-person or virtual meeting options are available, along with enhanced ongoing support from our team, and access to information.

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Our Core Fund Filter SystemTM helps us to select Risk Targeted Multi-Asset Funds for our clients, to maximise diversification and provide swift response to market conditions. Rebalancing of portfolios is done regularly within the funds, ideal for clients with Capital Gains Tax challenges.

A complete Estate Planning Business

Alongside our sister company, Legacy Protection Ltd, we provide bespoke advice regarding Wills, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney as well as tax and Estate Planning Independent Financial solutions.

Informative and topical client events

Giving our clients access to top quality information and advice, and the opportunity to hear from the experts, is our priority. Please email help@montgomeryep.co.uk if you would like to reserve a place on one of our upcoming events: 24 January 2023 11am-12pm or 2 February 2023 11am-12pm

Further information about us and our events can be found at www.montgomeryep.co.uk

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Leaving a lasting legacy to loved ones - supporting families to transition wealth to future generations

Montgomery Estate Planning Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (reference number 944236). Registered office address is Advalorem, 2 Manor Farm Court, Old Wolverton Road, Wolverton, Milton Keynes, MK12 5NN. Company number 12962917. The Financial Ombudsman Service is available to sort out individual complaints that clients and financial services businesses are not able to resolve themselves. To contact the Financial Ombudsman Service please visit www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk. Wills, Trusts and Tax advice is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Katy Baxter

(PFS), STEP Affiliate, SOLLA Accredited

Did you know there were 5.6 million small businesses in the UK in 2021? And that figure showed a drop of 6.5% since 2020? Doing more to support our small local businesses, not only helps them out, but has a number of benefits for our local community.

For a start, using local businesses brings money into the local economy, whether you buy from a shop, eat in a restaurant or use the services of a local financial adviser. A study by Civic Economics revealed that local retailers

return around 52% of their revenue to the local economy, compared with 16% for chains, while local restaurants re-circulate around 79% locally, compared with 30% for chain restaurants.

Supporting local can also contribute to local employment. By supporting the high street and local business, you can help to save and create jobs in local communities, often helping young and disadvantaged people to find employment.

And if you believe buying from independent retailers is expensive, you may be surprised to find out how competitive prices are in local shops - especially when compared to ordering online and paying for postage. And of course, they are so convenient! You can pop in and get what you want, benefiting from personal advice and specialist knowledge.

Not only that, but you can source more unusual items - and by supporting independent retailers, you are helping to keep variety on Berkhamsted high street.

We are very lucky to have our local high street - many other towns have seen their specialist retailers squeezed by out-of-town retail parks

and big chains, but Berkhamsted still retains its unique character. A thriving high street offers a place where we can socialise as well as shop. And of course local businesses generate revenue, which in turn supports council services such as libraries, parks and roads that benefit the local community.

What’s more, local companies offer a personal service that you can trust; you know exactly where they are, and that their local reputation is important to them. They are not anonymous people at the end of a phone or email - but members of our community.

Finally, it’s good to know that supporting local businesses can help the environment. They often source their goods locally, which helps to reduce their carbon footprint. And if you can walk or cycle to the shop or business, you are also reducing air pollution and traffic and improving the general quality of the town.

So before you go online or reach for the phone, think local first.

www.andquirky.co.uk

try FREE at

Multi-award winning Campfi re Gins, PUD PUD Christmas Gins, gin gift sets and more… distilled at our Tring distillery. Visit the distillery on Fridays & Saturdays and enjoy a try before you buy gin tasting. delivery on orders over £70 at puddingstonedistillery.com

Lower Icknield Way, Tring HP23 4NT

A BUNDLE OF FUN GAMES!

Three lucky winners could be in with a chance of winning a ‘Family Games bundle’, each worth almost £100!

All games included in the Winning Moves bundle are brand new, highly anticipated titles - including Lex Match, a new five-letter word game, the newest addition to the current word game craze. Presented in a handy carry-case, it’s the perfect game for on the go and endless word game fun.

Giant Pass the Pugs sees the classic dice game ‘Pass the Pigs’ under-go a ‘pupgrade’, perfect for dog lovers everywhere! Throw the inflatable pugs and see how they land — will you be the first to score 100 points? Will your pugs Play Dead, Faceplant or land totally Pooped Out?

What’s more, a Family Games Day wouldn’t be complete without a competitive Top Trumps battle. This bundle includes the exclusive Women’s European Football Champions Top Trumps, celebrating our amazing Lionesses’ big win earlier this year. You’ll also find the brand new and highly anticipated ‘Trending’ Top Trumps range, featuring Top Trumps guide to ‘NFTs’, ‘Fashion Trends’, ‘Trainers’, ‘Spotify’, ‘YouTube’ and, of course, ‘TikTok’.

There really is something for everyone with this amazing bundle, bound to keep the family entertained for hours of fun!

For a chance to win simply answer the following question and go to our website for more details. www.livingmags.info/competition.

Which breed of dog features in one of our prize bundle games?

Terms and conditions apply, visit website for details. Prizes will be allocated randomly. Closing date: 31 December 2022.

Everyone loves a bit of competition, and a spontaneous table tennis tournament with the Kettler Outdoor 5 table tennis table, offers an activity to bring the family together.

In a world so connected through technology, people are feeling more disconnected. Table tennis allows you to step away from the screen and talk with the person on the other side of the ping pong table. An intense game is not only entertaining but can also stimulate mental alertness, concentration and develop mental acuity. The nifty table fold-up option also allows for solo play, perfect for getting in some practice for the family showdown!

Since the 1960s, Kettler has been using pioneering technology to provide the best table tennis tables. The Kettler outdoor table tennis tables have several distinctive features, including a moisture-resistant melamine resin plate. It also includes a ball box, which can store up to 10 balls, which can then be singly removed from the dispenser.

There’s also an elastic band storage option on each net post, which is ideal for stowing bats or water bottles. The one-hand locking mechanism allows for safe opening and closing for storage. Kettler table tennis tables also have easily adjustable legs so you can amend the height no matter how uneven your floors are. So, get out and play!

For more information, visit: www.kettler.co.uk/store/product-category/table-tennis-tables

For a chance to win simply answer the following question and go to our website for more details. www.livingmags.info/competition.

When did Kettler start making table tennis tables?

Terms and conditions apply, visit website for details. Prizes will be allocated randomly. Closing date: 31 December 2022.

These easy-to-make truffles are perfect for last-minute Christmas gifts or a special after-dinner treat. You can fill them with all sorts of flavours and textures. Turn them into snowball truffles by rolling them in desiccated coconut.

This recipe features in The Chilterns Recipe Book (available now - see our Shop Local feature for details), produced and compiled by Rebecca Fleckney, which celebrates the best independent food and drink across the region and the people who make it. The recipe is from artisan chocolatier Yvette Lynch of Yvette’s Chocolates, who makes beautiful handmade chocolates in her pretty shop in Potten End.

Yvette says: ‘If you would like to add flavours to your ganache, the best way is by infusing the cream before adding it to the chocolate. Warm the cream with your flavour of choice ie, vanilla, mint, basil, cardamom, spices or even dried lavender flowers, and leave to steep for an hour. Strain and then reheat the cream to continue making the ganache.

‘You can also add flavour and texture when you roll your truffles with chopped nuts, chocolate flakes or even cocoa powder with some added spices or sugar.’

CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES

Ingredients

• 250g Yvette’s dark chocolate chopped or callets

• 250g double cream

• 100g light muscovado sugar

For Rolling

• 50g cocoa powder • 50g muscovado sugar

Method

1. Place your chocolate in a medium-sized heatproof bowl and set aside.

2. Place the cream and sugar in a small saucepan over a medium heat. Bring to the boil and immediately pour over the chocolate, whisking well until emulsified and smooth. Allow the ganache to cool.

3. Cover and then refrigerate for a couple of hours or overnight until firm.

4. When you’re ready to roll your truffles, line a baking tray with parchment paper and mix the cocoa powder and sugar.

5. Using a small teaspoon, scoop some of the mixture and roll it in your hands to create a smooth round truffle. Once shaped, re-roll the truffles through the cocoa powder and sugar. Leave to set and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

6. For the best flavour and texture, let truffles come to room temperature before serving.

The Magic of Christmas!

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to the theatre. Here’s our pick of the most festive shows and pantomimes

Pure panto genie-us!

Aladdin

Fri 2 Dec – Mon 2 Jan Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury Box Office: 0844 871 7615 www.atgtickets.com/ aylesbury

Starring Davood Ghadami (EastEnders, StrictlyComeDancing) as the evil Abanazar, hilarious Andy Collins (BBC3 Counties Breakfast Show) as Wishee Washee and the fabulous La Voix (Britain’s Got Talent) as Widow Twankey.

Expect fun by the lamp-load, sensational song and dance numbers, and a magic carpet ride to remember!

Dick Whittington and his Cat

Tue 27 Dec - Mon 2 Jan The Court Theatre, Tring www.courttheatre.co.uk

With over 45 years’ experience producing traditional family pantomimes, come boo and hiss the nasty Rat while cheering on our heroes, ensuring good triumphs over evil. Plus, kids that want to get to join the cast on stage for a sing-a-long at the end, always a family favourite!

Sleeping Beauty

Sat 3 Dec – Sat 31 Dec The Elgiva, Chesham

Box Office: 01494 582900 www.elgiva.com

Step into a fairy-tale world of magical castles, bewitched spinning wheels and an enchanted sleep that only true love’s kiss can break! A hilarious family panto packed with songs, special effects, slapstick and mayhem. A real festive treat starring CITV favourite Chris Edgerley.

Thank you for helping to save, and rebuild, my life.”

Now more than ever, the cost of living crisis is hitting hard and putting many vulnerable people at risk of food poverty and homelessness. DENS helps people like Chloe, whose life was saved when she received a food parcel to feed herself and her mum.

Chloe was forced to flee her home and relocate several times with her elderly mother in order to escape a violent and threatening ex-partner. Describing her situation as “living in hiding on Universal Credit,” with finances stretched to the limit due to rocketing energy bills, she says “it’s just impossible to make ends meet.”

Chloe received a food parcel from the Foodbank and feels hugely grateful for how the service can support people in terrible situations like hers.

“It’s taken my life from just being desperate to feeling a sense of gratitude and that there’s somewhere that will take care of us.”

Chloe says thank you for saving her life by keeping her and her mum fed at a very difficult time when money is so tight.

DENS can only do this with your help. A donation of any size will help support others in our community like Chloe. Visit www.dens. org.uk/winter-appeal to make a donation today. Thank you. Registered Charity No. 1097185

Local people are facing difficult choices, but DENS is here to help

Winter is a challenging season for many, but this year there will be individuals and families facing cold, hungry nights because of the rising cost of living.

DENS can provide emergency food parcels, temporary accommodation, and specialist advice and support to help our community get through these tough times.

With a gift from you today, DENS can help keep vulnerable people warm, safe and fed this winter.

Thank you. www.dens.org.uk/winter-appeal

BOOKS

The Wartime Bookshop

By Lesley Eames

I read this book in one sitting on a rainy afternoon. Set in a Hertfordshire village during the Second World War, it follows the lives of three very different women, each in need of a friend, who are brought together by their shared love of books. But they do more than that - can they bring together their local community - and can one of them find love? A warm hug of a book that is highly recommended - it was a shame it came to an end. The good news is that Lesley has plans for two more books in the series!

Award-winning author Lesley Eames lives in St Albans and has published four books set in World War One and the Roaring 20s.

How To Find Your Way Home

Katy Regan

Out in paperback in January

A touching tale about the love between siblings, How To Find Your Way Home tells the tale of Emily, who has a good job and a lovely home, and her older brother Stephen, who has been living on the streets. Emily has been searching for him for years when he suddenly turns up when she least expects it. A poignant read, with beautiful characters who draw you in from the start, Katy had created a compelling tale of a family broken by an abusive stepfather. She also highlights the plight of the homeless in the UK, and focuses on the beauty of our landscape and its wildlife. A must-read. Katy Regan is a former magazine journalist and lives with her teenage son in Berkhamsted.

In The Shadows of the Ceiba

By TMH Gall

This thriller transports the reader from the 2020 Covid pandemic in our NHS to third world Guatemala, as surgeon Sofia Rose leaves her London working life to work in a remote hospital in Guatemala, where she was born. Unsurprisingly, it’s a decision that changes Sofia’s view of life and death forever.

As well as a gripping storyline, this page turner also covers medical issues in real detail - not surprising as the author is a real-life surgeon. Anyone who loves medical dramas will enjoy the story from this perspective alone - and there’s a great twist at the end!

Tamara Gall is a surgeon who grew up in Berkhamsted and then Little Gaddesden. She is currently completing a complex pancreatic surgery fellowship in Sydney, Australia.

Snuggle up this winter and indulge yourself with these great reads from local authors

A Dragon called Shining Leaves

By Pam G Howard

One of our younger readers - Zoe Clark-Monks - reviewed this book. She writes: The book follows three young best friends, Tan, Autumn and Otto. Throughout the book each of them ascend into their own magical adventure as the Lord’s evil brother takes over the castle and its occupants in their hometown, Tan as an apprentice to a librarian (who may or may not have a magic staff!); Autumn with the company of a dragon called Shining Leaves and Otto working out a way to take down the Lord’s brother from inside the castle. Each of them fight their own battles and make their way back to each other to take down the Lord’s brother. It is full of adventure, magic and really captures your imagination, I couldn’t put it down!

Pam lives in Little Gaddesden and has published two books in her Ashridge Adventures series, along with three McDragon tales. She says: ‘When I write a book I never know exactly what is going to happen, which means it’s as much of a mystery to me as to the reader!’

Hidden In Plain Sight : The Blackstones

By Peter Edward White (available on Amazon)

When student William Fairchild visits his grandparents in a sleepy village (inspired by Aldbury), he discovers a secret from his grandfather’s past. A trip to London finds him embroiled in a sinister world he never knew existed - and which ultimately could threaten his life.

A thrilling tale that moves at a fast pace, the book also made me chuckle - and I loved the ‘nerdy facts’ that the author introduces intermittently about facts such as how the City of London came to exist.

My only complaint is that it ended far too soon, but the good news is that a prequel and sequel are in the pipeline.

Pete White, from Tring is a lighting tech in the TV and film industry. He wrote this book after contracting Covid in 2020 - he took 10 days off work and completed the first draft in that time.

Magic & Memories: A Collection of Short Stories

By Ann Parker. Illustrations by Harvey Padmore

This charming little book is filled with short stories written in rhyme. Perfect for a short story at bedtime, Ann’s tales include a Christmas and Halloween story, as well as one about the tooth fairy, so it’s a book that is guaranteed to be read again and again at certain times of the year. There’s also tales of animals, elves, fairies, family, football and more. The sweet illustrations have been created by Ann’s grandson, Harvey, who is an animation and design student.

Hemel-based Ann Parker has lived in Hertfordshire all her life. She says: “I love Pam Ayres and I often get commissioned to write funny, birthday present poems for people, in her style.’’

Local authors! Let us know about your book releases. Email editorial@livingmags.info Please mention Berkhamsted Living when responding to adverts

A tale of three families

Berkhamsted’s Bailey & Sons jewellers celebrates its 150th birthday this year - but the history of the business is intertwined with three different families

Bailey & Sons was founded by the Bailey Family on Castle Street in Berkhamsted in 1872 - they were jewellers and silversmiths and watch and clockmakers.

John Henry Worner Bailey, who originated from Kent, was married to Annie Johns. They had seven children in all - all born in Berkhamsted. The couple lived at 116 High Street and John joined the family jewellery business, which was situated in adjoining properties at 1 Castle Street (now The Castle Hairdresser). Both properties were rented from a Miss E.K. Miller.

John ran the business until his death in 1923, and his sons took over. Meanwhile, in Brixton Hill, London, Hewitts’ Jewellers was established in 1919. Fred Hewitt was only 20 when he and his brother bought the business from the German owner who had decided to return home after the First World War. They bought the shop

lock stock and barrel - so started off with a shop that was stocked with pre-war items and very much in demand.

After escaping London following the Blitz, the Hewitt brothers opened a second shop in Amersham on the Hill. Fast forward quite some years, and Fred’s son Ron joined the business and the London store shut so they could concentrate on their Buckinghamshire shop.

1. Bailey & Sons with Mr Bailey at the door.

Old view of Castle Street - date unknown.

Continued on page 36.

Back in Berkhamsted, in 1929, John and Kathleen Sparkes bought the Bailey & Sons business. They lived at 2 Tennis Court Cottages, Lower Kings Road. Mr Sparkes was an expert watchmaker, and he went into the Air Force as an instrument maker during World War Two, returning to run the shop in 1945.

After his death in 1968, at the age of 55, his wife continued with the business until the Hewitts purchased it in May 1981. It was important to Mrs Sparkes to sell the business to a family who would keep the Bailey & Sons name and continue the long-established heritage. Unusually, Mr Sparkes is buried in Rectory Lane Cemetery with his mother-inlaw Catherine Rolfe. While Kathleen lived until the age of 91 and died in Tring in 2004. In the meantime, back in London in 1931, the Hewitt brothers were continuing with their entrepreneurial ways - it was at this time that Britain abandoned the gold standard (the system whereby most countries fixed the value of their currencies in terms of a specified amount of gold, or linked their currency to that of a country which did).

The brothers saw an opportunity as they realised the precious metal in a gold sovereign was worth more than its 20 shilling face value. They bought sovereigns for 26 shillings each and had queues of people waiting to trade their coins in - you can see in the photo they proclaim themselves as the ‘originators of the Gold Rush’! Fred would hop on his motorbike to the bullion refiners with the coins - making a profit of one shilling and sixpence on each one.

In 1974 at the age of 18, Ron’s son Nigel joined the business and seven years later the opportunity to buy Bailey & Sons in Castle Street, Berkhamsted arose. Nigel and Jane (who had joined the company as a sales assistant in Amersham) took on the shop from Mrs Sparkes and re-energised it - within two years it had become a thriving business.

In November 1985 Bailey & Sons (now owned by the Hewitt family) moved to the current premises in Lower Kings Road. The subsequent large extension out the back, overseen by Ron, enabled Nigel and Jane to expand the business and bring in more stock. The pair had plenty in common, and a year later they were married. Thirty seven years later, a few front window changes and now a fourth generation, Bailey & Sons is run by their daughter Charlotte - who tells us that there are exciting plans for the outside of the shop to mark the 150th anniversary.

It is still very much a family concernCharlotte’s brother Miles is the technician who works out the back of the shop.

How many other businesses can proudly claim such an illustrious history in the town? We would love to hear from other Berkhamsted businesses with such a long history.

3. Gold Rush: Fred Hewitt and his brother Bert in 1931. 4. John, Kathleen and Jeffrey Sparkes.

5. Inside Baileys today, following the 2016 refurbishment

WOOL

AND THE GANG

How knitwear became cool again

For some of us, knitwear evokes uncomfortable memories of itchy, misshapen cardigans in garish hues and patterns knitted by one’s nan or elderly aunt. It is a giant leap therefore to appreciate just how cool those same woollies, and all associated needlecraft, have now become.

Modern knitwear

In some ways it is just the inevitable movement of time, as that which was once au fait becomes so again, but there is also another social phenomenon which has helped propel this ancient art form to fashion’s front row: Instagram. Now boasting a breadth of needle-wielding influencers, the photosharing app has become the ideal place for knitters to show off their yarns. Whether cutesy crochet bikinis or gorgeous, grannyish cardigans, wool enthusiasts such as New Zealand native Nicole Leybourne (@theknitter) and California student Kara Eng (@karas.knit. eng), not only have thousands of followers (43k and 118k respectively) they also have thriving online marketplaces where they sell their highly coveted patterns across the globe.

Not surprisingly, this online trend has begun to seep into modern culture with knitwear having a few massive moments. There was

Bernie Sanders’ mittens which basically became the meme of Joe Biden’s inauguration; the cream, cable knit sweater worn by Chris Evans in thriller flick Knives Out (who knew cable knit could be so sexy?); and diver Tom Daley’s magnificent Team GB cardigan which he was seen knitting poolside at the Tokyo 2020 games.

Knitting inspiration for the nation

This brings us round to the big question of why people knit. For someone like Daley, knitting seemed to not only be a way to pass time, but also a therapeutic distraction while waiting to compete at the highest level of competition in the world.

It comes as no surprise then that a huge boost in sales was seen across sewing machines, knitting kits and crochet books during various lockdowns that commenced in the spring of 2020, while many of us around the globe sat anxiously at home.

Continued on page 40…

The Wellness Hub in Lower Kings Street, Berkhamsted has brought the best of London’s Wimpole Street services to the heart of the town in the shape of IV Boost.

IV Boost was founded in 2005 by medical director Dr Joshua Berkowitz and its reputation is second-to-none. Dr Josh and his team pride themselves on their medical skills and personalised approach: all clients have a consultation before any therapy to ensure it suits their exact needs.

IV Boost takes a holistic approach to health and wellness to boost the body’s natural ability to be well, energised and able to resist ageing.

A wealth of wellbeing solutions await you at The Wellness Hub including: • IV Vitamin Therapy

Vitamin Shots • Ozone Therapy • Diagnostic Testing

Aesthetic Treatments

IV VITAMIN THERAPY

Intravenous (IV) Vitamin Therapy is the fastest way to deliver nutrients throughout the body because it bypasses the digestive system and is 90-100% absorbed.

IV THERAPY CAN HELP TREAT:

VITAMIN SHOTS

These intramuscular injections treat various vitamin deficiencies. By-passing the digestive system, they are quickly and fully absorbed into your bloodstream.

CHOOSE FROM:

B Complex for low mood, energy drain, dull complexion & hair

Vitamin D for low bone mineral density, low immunity, stress Vitamin B12 for tiredness & fatigue, feeling under-the-weather Biotin for lacklustre, weak & splitting hair

IV BOOST @ THE WELLNESS HUB ALSO OFFERS:

Ozone Therapy to stimulate the release of oxygen into the body’s tissues to restore optimum health. Diagnostic Testing to give a clear picture of your health and pinpoint any problems. Aesthetic Treatments to enhance appearance, treat signs of ageing and rejuvenate skin. www.the-wellness-hub.co.uk/iv-boost/

Continued from page 37…

After all, if one is going to nervously twiddle their thumbs for weeks on end, one might as well acquire a beautiful scarf and beanie set at the end of it.

Knitting is community, as the plethora of online forums will attest. It is unity, and comes with free online patterns widely available to download.

There are also local knitting groups gathering in coffee shops all across the country. It is also activism, with the pink pussy hats becoming the symbol of the 2017 women’s marches.

Purling that makes perfect sense

Beyond all the cultural ephemera, however, is the fact that knitting is just good sense. With the perils of fast fashion becoming more

apparent by the day - poor working conditions in factories, water-dependant crops such as cotton and the general largesse of waste necessary to manufacture thousands of low-quality logo t-shirts – making clothes yourself is an appealing antidote.

Made with care, made with time, and made with love: you can modify the pattern exactly to your size and colour preferences, save money, and nurture a real sense of pride and accomplishment at the end of it.

Who cares if your new jumper is a little wonky, or a little baggy, or took six months to make? It’s yours, and there is not another one like it in the world!

TRING PILATES STUDIO

BERRY

NICE INDEED

Callicarpa

Warming those winter garden vistas with some bursts of festive colour

We all fear the greying gloom of winter, yet with the use of berry-producing plants and trees, your outside space can quickly adopt all the sprigs and sprays of summer.

Those showcasing winter berries are easy to grow, hardy and resilient. More than that, they attract birds to your garden at a time when seeing wildlife can sometimes feel like an unexpected treat.

Sorbus

In white, pink, yellow, red, blue and quite the most stunning copper tones, the berries from this deciduous tree will bring breathless colour to even the darkest corner.

With over 100 species of tree and shrub making up the family, you won’t be short of choice or subtlety, with each growing to around six metres tall, and lasting for between 10-20 years.

Holly

A Christmas favourite, holly combines a burning red berry with that intensely detailed, beautifully curated leaf, using a combination of greens that offset its radiant bedfellow with a flourish of frosty finesse.

Perhaps the most resplendent winter berry that we know, though for all its festive connotations, it’s sure to stick around for many months of magic.

This shrub has purple jewel-like berries that look as if they’ve come straight from a safe deposit box in Hatton Garden. An intensely rich shade, the plant goes into overdrive in autumn and winter, progressing from small pink flowers in midsummer to an exaggerated and extroverted array of striking, violet, bead-like berries as the months flick by.

Thus, the Callicarpa is guaranteed to offer colour to even the gloomiest garden.

Cotoneaster

Don’t be deceived by the name, this shrub is very much a winter dweller, and boasts red or yellow berries that will keep birds in your garden even when the frost descends.

The Cotoneaster does have a reputation for spreading fast, not so much because it’s a back garden bully that can’t be trusted; more by way of birds scattering the seed all around.

If you can deal with little pockets of colour popping up – and why shouldn’t you? – then this is a beautiful plant for weary winter wonderlands.

Viburnum tinus

In its prime between the months of December to April, just when you think the golden pink buds of this characterful plant can’t offer anything more, the ends burst open offering a spray of white flowers.

One of the first risers for spring’s sumptuous season of colour, the Viburnum tinus will soar in prominence just as the temperatures begin to do likewise, lifting your outside space into sparkling spring finesse.

ALWAYS

CHECK

FRIDAY 2 DEC

Fundraisers: Santa’s Sleigh Santa will be visiting Berkhamsted. Routes and tracking information on the website. berkorotary.org

MONDAY 5 DEC

Fairs / Festivals: Ashridge House: Illuminated

To 2 Jan. Immerse yourself in a land of illuminations at Ashridge House this Christmas. christmas. ashridgehouse.org.uk

Fairs / Festivals: Christmas at Waddesdon Wed-Sun 12noon-7pm to 2 Jan. Light trails, Christmas Fair and dazzling displays inside the Manor. waddesdon.org.uk

Fundraisers: Santa Float

To 18 Dec. The Rennie Grove Santa Float will be visiting Tring. For dates and routes visit website. renniegrove.org

TUESDAY 6 DEC

Talks: The Life of the Auctioneer

Wigginton History Society, Village Hall, Wigginton.

8pm. Barry Twyman, Director of Amersham Auctions. cliff.mills@ outlook.com

WEDNESDAY 7 DEC

Arts & Crafts: Needle Felted Penguin Workshop Little Heath Farm Nursery, Potten End. 10.30am-12pm. Make a needle-felted penguin decoration. chilternsociety.org.uk

FRIDAY 9 DEC

Talks: A Christmas Carol Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Doors 6pm for 7pm start. Lively and engaging oneman performance of Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Scrooge. www. discoverbucksmuseum.org

SATURDAY 10 DEC

Exhibitions: Christmas through the Ages Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. 11am-5pm. Family Fun Day celebrating traditional Tudor, Victorian and Georgian Christmases. www. discoverbucksmuseum.org

SUNDAY 11 DEC

Fundraisers: FNHC Santa Dash 2022 Popular Santa Dash in Aylesbury. www.fnhospice. org.uk

Talks: Nora Grace Hall Project

Nora Grace Hall, Tring. 12-3pm. Tring Town Council is looking at a modern replacement building for the Nora Grace Hall. Learn about the building, see plans and 3D model. Councillors on hand to answer questions. Refreshments provided. tring.gov.uk

Music: Piano and More Tring Parish Church, 3pm.

A concert for Advent. Varied programme of music with seasonal theme. piano-andmore.org.uk

Music: Remembering Loved Ones Service

High Street Baptist Church, Tring, 4pm. www. tringbaptistchurch.co.uk

MONDAY 12 DEC

Film: The Duke Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. www. berkhamstedfilmsociety.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 14 DEC

Arts & Crafts: Needle Felted Scandi Gnome Workshop

Little Heath Farm, Potten End. 10.30am-12pm. Make a cute needle-felted Scandi Gnome decoration. chilternsociety.org.uk

THURSDAY 15 DEC

Music: East-West Maxwell Street Band Christmas Bash

Santa will be visiting Berkhamsted

FRIDAY 16 DEC

Business: BDCC Christmas Lunch

12.30-2.30pm. www. berkhamsted-chamber.co.uk

Music: That Joe Payne Court Theatre, Tring. 8pm. From £17. Awardwinning vocalist returns to hometown with critically acclaimed Christmas concert. courttheatre.co.uk

SATURDAY 17 DEC

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market

Market Place, Brook Street, Tring, 9am-12.30pm. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

Music: Tring Choral Society Christmas Concert St Peter & St Paul’s church, Tring. 7.30pm. Thomas Coram School Choir. www.tringchoral.org.uk

Music: Echor Christmas St. Mary’s Church, Wendover. 7.30pm. Christmas concert filled with works of Bach, Vivaldi, Albinoni. www.echormusic. com

Music: Gabriel Latchin Trio

BJazz at Civic Centre, Berkhamsted. 8pm. Pianoled trio plays stylish jazz and some own compositions. www.bjazz.org

SUNDAY 18 DEC

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market

High Street, Berkhamsted,

10am-2pm. www.facebook.com/berkofm

Music: All-age Nativity Service

High Street Baptist Church, Tring, 10.30am. Also via Zoom. www. tringbaptistchurch.co.uk

Music: Service Tring Church, 4pm. The Christmas story in readings and songs. www.tringteamparish.org.uk

WEDNESDAY 21 DEC

Music: Carol Service Tring Churchyard (outside), 6pm. With Tring Brewery bar. www.tringteamparish.org.uk

Music: Moonlight Sonata

St Peter’s Church, Berkhamsted. 7.30pm. Behind the Mirror’s Clare O’Connell and Viv McLean. www. behindthemirror.org

THURSDAY 22 DEC

Music: Carol Service High Street Baptist Church, Tring. 7.30pm. www.tringbaptistchurch. co.uk

FRIDAY 23 DEC

Music: Chiltern Chamber Choir

St Peter’s Church, Berkhamsted, 7.30pm. Bach Mass in B Minor with the Bridgewater Sinfonietta. www.chilternchamberchoir. com

Be a good neighbour

You can choose to receive updates from your local policing team by email or through the OWL App. These will include local crime alerts, scam warnings, missing person appeals, and the latest crime prevention advice to help keep you and your neighbours safe.

Membership is free. For more information or to register, please visit www.owl.co.uk/herts or email police@owl.uk. To join the OWL App and keep up to date with police news on the go, search the App store or Google Play for ‘OWL crime alerts’.

SATURDAY 24 DEC

Music: Crib Services Tring Church, 2pm & 4pm. All-age service. www. tringteamparish.org.uk

Music: Crib Services St Peter’s Church, Berkhamsted. 3pm and 5pm. www.stpetersberkhamsted. org.uk

Music: Christingle Service High Street Baptist Church, Tring. 4.30pm. www.tringbaptistchurch. co.uk

Music: Christmas Eve Carols with Tring Lions Forge car park, Tring, 6.30pm. www.facebook.com/ groups/1607884242795891

Music: Midnight Mass St Peters Church, Berkhamsted. 11pm. www.stpetersberkhamsted. org.uk

Music: Midnight Mass Tring Church, 11.30pm. Communion. www. tringteamparish.org.uk

Music: Midnight Communion Service High Street Baptist Church, Tring. 11.30pm. www. tringbaptistchurch.co.uk

SUNDAY 25 DEC

Music: Communion Tring Church, 8am. Traditional language communion. At 10am communion service for all ages. www.tringteamparish. org.uk

SCAN ME FOR OWL APP

SCAN ME FOR OWL EMAILS

More than 1 in 3 homes across Hertfordshire are receiving our messages and helping to keep our county safe.

Music: Eucharist

St Peter’s Church, High Street, Berkhamsted. 9.30am. Sung Eucharist for Christmas Day. www. stpetersberkhamsted.org.uk

Music: Christmas Celebration Service

High Street Baptist Church, Tring, 10am. www. tringbaptistchurch.co.uk

TUESDAY 27 DEC

Theatre: Dick Whittington and his Cat Court Theatre, various performances. To 2 Jan. www.courttheatre.co.uk

SATURDAY 31 DEC

Dance: Pendley Manor

Two fabulous options for New Year’s Eve. www. pendley-manor.co.uk

FRIDAY 6 JAN

Talks: The Volunteer Centre High Street Baptist Church, Tring, 10-11am. www. support4dacorum.org.uk

SATURDAY 7 JAN

Fundraisers: Open Door Repair Café

Open Door Berkhamsted. First Saturday of each month. 9.30am-12.30pm. Bring along your broken items. opendoorberkhamsted. co.uk

SUNDAY 8 JAN

Music: Piano and More

Tring Parish Church, 3pm. Alice Dilley (clarinet) and Anna Le Hair (piano). pianoand-more.org.uk

THURSDAY 12 JAN

Music: Malaya Blue Blues Bar, Tring. 8.30pm. www.bluesbartring.co.uk

SATURDAY 14 JAN

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market

Market Place, Brook Street, Tring. 9am-12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of month. www. tringfarmersmarket. co.uk

Music: TJ Johnson Quintet BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 8pm. TJ Johnson sings and plays jazz, blues, soul, gospel and country. www.bjazz.org

SUNDAY 15 JAN

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market

High St, Berkhamsted. 10am2pm. Third Sun of every month. www.facebook.com/ berkofm

MONDAY 16 JAN

Film: Gagarine Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. www.berkhamstedfilm society.co.uk

Music: Tring Choral Society Choral Workshop Akeman Street Baptist Church, Tring, 8-9.45pm. Want to sing with a large choir? Faure’s Requiem with Tring Choral Society at open rehearsal. Email for info. membership@tringchoral. org.uk

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

19 JAN

Business: Tring BusinessMart

Meet other local business people for networking. www. tringtogether.org.uk

FRIDAY 20 JAN

Music: Secondary Modern Jazz Tring Church. 8-10pm. Doors 7pm. Secondary Modern Jazz quartet. www. bluesbartring.co.uk

FRIDAY

27 JAN

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

SATURDAY 28 JAN

Fundraisers: Charity Burns Night

Berkhamsted Old Town Hall. 7 for 7.30pm. Dress highland, black tie or lounge suit, 3-course meal, raffle and highland dancing to Pickled Tink plus piper etc. peteels12@gmail.com

SUNDAY 29 JAN

Music: A Midwinter Recital

Anthony Hall, 33 London Rd, Aston Clinton, HP22 5HG. 11am and 3pm. jehorder@ aol.com

MONDAY 30 JAN

SATURDAY 4 FEB

Music: Mithras Trio Berkhamsted Civic Centre 7.30pm. www. berkhamstedmusic.co.uk Music: George Harrison Project Court Theatre, Tring. 7.30pm. Live music celebration of George Harrison’s best-loved hits from early Beatles, solo career and Traveling Wilburys. courttheatre. co.uk

TUESDAY 7 FEB

Talks: The Legend of the White Mouse

Wigginton History Society, Village Hall, Wigginton. 8pm. The story of WWII spy Nancy Wake. cliff. mills@outlook.com

SATURDAY 11 FEB

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market Market Place, Brook Street, Tring, 9am-12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

Music: Harlem Meer Cats BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted. 8pm. 1920s & 30s numbers from Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway. www.bjazz.org

MONDAY 13 FEB

18 JAN

Talks: Kodak and its impact on Tring High Street Baptist Church Tring. 8pm. Having retired from Kodak after many years, Ernesto Jaconelli will give an insight into working for the photography corporation. tringlocalhistorymuseum. org.uk

Film: The Man Who Knew Infinity

Berkhamsted Civic Centre. 8pm. www.berkhamstedfilm society.co.uk

THURSDAY

2 FEB

Music: Alice Armstrong Blues Bar Tring. 8.30pm. Doors 7pm. www. bluesbartring.co.uk

Film: Cold War Berkhamsted Civic Centre, 8pm. Also Tue 14. berkhamstedfilmsociety. co.uk

FRIDAY 17 FEB

Comedy: Mark Watson Court Theatre, Tring, 8pm. Mark Watson performs ‘This Can’t Be It!’. courttheatre.co.uk

SUNDAY 19 FEB

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market

High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. www.facebook. com/berkofm

TUESDAY 21 FEB

Business: Tring BusinessMart

Meet other local business people for networking. www.tringtogether.org.uk

FRIDAY 24 FEB

Film: Tring Cinema

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

MONDAY 27 FEB

Film: The Phantom of the Open

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

SATURDAY 4 MAR

Music: Derek Nash Quartet BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted. 8pm. www.bjazz.org

SUNDAY 5 MAR

Sport: Berkhamsted Half Marathon 40th Berkhamsted Half Marathon and Fun Run. www.berkorun.com

Online Classical Guitar Lessons with

Don Adam Perera

Beginner - advanced • All ages welcome Professional and experienced classical guitarist with BMus and MMus.

£20 per half hour

Please text: 0789 456 2150 or email: donadamperera@gmail.com

Anna

40th Anniversary Berkhamsted Half Marathon and 5 mile Fun Run 5th March 2023

The Half Marathon is used as a serious training “marker” for the London Marathon and other national events. Entries are welcome from everybody with a passion for running.

The event, promoted by Berkhamsted Rotary Club, is a major fundraiser for local charities. Individuals or teams can support their own charitable causes - we’ll recognise the most successful fundraisers - see website for Rules. There will be prizes for outstanding Half Marathon individuals and teams. Help Rotary raise funds for two local care organisations, the Pepper Foundation and the Hospice of St Francis and other local and Rotary charities. Sooo - Keep Running!

Rose

WALKS AROUND TOWN

This circular walk around Tring Park explores the influence of the Rothschild family on the town and the surrounding countryside. It includes a world famous museum, a magnificent village hall, a few follies and the all-year-round beauty of Tring Park.

Length: 4.2 miles. Terrain: Easy walking on paths and lanes with one gradual climb. Start & finish: The Forge car park, High Street, Tring HP23 5AG. Grid ref: SP 925 115 Leave the car park via the main entrance and turn right along the High Street. Take the second left up Akeman Street to the T-junction at the top.

1. Turn right, then immediately left into Hastoe Lane, walk along it and go under the flyover to a path on the right, signposted to Stubbings Wood.

2. Turn right past a gate onto a concrete track. The track becomes a path that runs parallel to the main road. After 200m bear left uphill, keeping to the right of a hedgerow. At the brow of the hill look back to see the fine views over Tring and beyond. Keep climbing on the wide track between the fences and then along the edge of a wood for 300m to a gap in the trees.

3. Enter the wood, turn immediately left uphill for 130m to a path junction. Ignore the path on the left and continue uphill for a further 300m to the next junction. Fork right and follow the path as it drops down steps to a major track.

4. Turn left up past the wooden barrier and bear left along the rough lane to a road junction. Turn left and, at the bend, continue straight ahead into Church Lane to follow The Ridgeway National Trail. Walk past the village hall and continue to the junction of Church Lane and Marlin Hill.

5. Turn left up Marlin Hill, cross to the other side of the road and continue up the grass verge. After 200m, turn right past the wooden barrier into Tring Park. The next section is called King Charles Ride and there are extensive views over the Vale of Aylesbury. After nearly a mile the Ridgeway turns right. Do not follow it, but continue ahead and down to a white building – the Summer House.

6. Follow the main path as it bends left downhill to the obelisk. Continue in the same direction down to a kissing gate. Go through it, turn right and then across the open area of the Park towards a footbridge over the A41. Go through the gates, cross the footbridge and follow the wide fenced path towards a road.

7. Just before the road, turn left through a gate, walk past the car park and turn right over a bridge to a road. Turn left and immediately right down Akeman Street to the High Street. Turn right to return to the car park.

See our website www.Livingmags.Info/ type/walks for full directions & download With thanks to Andrew Clark, Chiltern Society