Sticks February 2016

Issue 37 February 2016

In this edition of The Sticks Exclusive interview with singer Heather Small Interview with Katherine Ryan Hero Cheese of the Month Advice from Consensus HR The Danish Girl – A Trans therapist’s viewpoint We review Brookmans BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace – Valentines Day gifts And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks

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Welcome to the February edition of The Sticks Magazine!

The most talked about magazine in Herts, Beds & Bucks With over 16,000 readers a month

In this issue: Exclusive Interview with Heather Small Interview with Katherine Ryan HR Column from Consensus HR The Danish Girl – A Trans therapist’s viewpoint Curwens Column Art Column Janey Lee Grace –Valentines Day gifts Must See Films Hero Cheese of the Month Big Barn Food Column Brookmans Listings – Herts, Beds & Bucks

Page 4 7 10 11 13 14 15 17 19 21 22 24

Contributors: Terry Sullivan, Janey Lee Grace, Jo Coker, Sharon Struckman, Sonny Etchell

See you in March!

Editor & Sales: Terry Sullivan Tel: 07756 274444 Email: thesticks9@gmail.com www.the-sticks.co.uk Follow us on twitter @thesticks9 www.facebook.com/sticksmag

Listen to The Sticks Radio Show at 10am on Mondays on Secklow Sounds www.secklowsounds.org

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Exclusive Interview with Singer Heather Small

After selling several million records, winning two Brit Awards and the Mercury Music Prize, performing across the globe and recording a track that has become an unofficial national anthem - international anthem even, Heather Small is one of the most successful female recording artists of recent years.

As part of M People, hits such as 'Moving On Up', 'One Night In Heaven' and 'Search For The Hero' and albums like Elegant Slumming, Bizarre Fruit and Fresco achieving massive worldwide success, Heather became one of the seminal British voices of the 1990s, with the band winning the Best British Dance Act Award at the Brits in 1994 and 1995, as well as the Mercury Music Prize for Elegant Slumming.

Heather is currently touring the country and The Sticks managed to talk to her ahead of her appearances in the area.

How did you get into music? I answered an ad in the Melody Maker, years ago when there were still those music magazines that talked about bands and advertised for band members and I looked at that publication for a good few months, and then I answered one of the ads, they liked my voice, that’s when I joined “Hothouse” that was in the 80’s. It is a shame there is nothing like Melody maker and there is no music programming either, it is tough for our young bands now but I suppose things have changed with You Tube etc., but that is a certain type of audience, whereas if you’re beamed in to people’s homes or in magazines it is easier to get to a mass of people, not just people who browse the net but actually might go and buy some records and concert tickets.

With music there is always something new to discover or even rediscover.

How did you come to join M People? Well they had the same management company as “Hothouse” and after I had been signed and then dropped a few years later without setting the world on fire, the guys in M People had some songs they had written especially for me, they were fans of my voice, so I went along to discover what they had and we really clicked and got on very well. The first time I met Mike was in the 4

management office and it was about 10am and I did not leave until 4am the next morning and had fun and I thought if every day could be like this with this band it was definitely worth an investigation. The name M People was originally Mike’s People as it was going to be a collective and Mike was the creator, he was well known in the DJing and dance world so he wanted to make music as well as play music, he has great ears.

Is it right you suffer from stage fright? This comes up at almost every interview I have done; yes I get it awful before hand, it is bad. I am doing a tour and months before it is yes, that’s what I should be doing - it is a great idea and then a week before I think why did say I would do it? But when I get on stage, mic in my hand, the music’s playing and the audience is with me it is the best feeling in the world and I think that’s why I do it, all those nerves and weeks of worry disappear. I get on stage and do what I love to do and enjoy it so much.

In 2008 you put yourself through hell both stage fright wise and physically when you did “Strictly” why? Hell is an apt word me thinks. The learning to dance, meeting my partner Brian Fortuna was one of the best experiences of my life and of course dancing everyday but it is that live show every Saturday. Brian used to say to me you’re the most nervous person I have ever danced with. So I really never put my best foot forward on the actual day because I was so nervous but I did so many dance–offs that I got chance to do it all over again and then I was more relaxed and I thought if I go, I go but at least show them I can do the dance. I did the show because my mum and my sister are mad fans and I had turned it down so many times before and my sister was ill and I promised her if she got better I would do it and I did. I was never in it to win it, I just wanted to enjoy the experience, I had no idea it was so big.

It is absolutely phenomenal, they call it the “Strictly bubble”.

Among your accolades you have the freedom of Manchester? That was quite emotional that was as I am a Londoner and to be acknowledged by the Manchunians in such a way. I do love the north and I do love Manchester. I lived a while in Wigan and I have family in Leeds. I think the reason I got it is they saw me as a positive ambassador to the region. I am proud of it. I am not sure what I get for it, I am wondering if I can drive a heard of sheep over a bridge!

Oprah Winfrey has used your song “Proud” on her show and she then invited you over to meet up with her. Yes, they asked me to go on her show to sing “Proud” live. That was a 5

surreal experience because I went over to Chicago and the offices where they operate from were blocks long and you go in and you think this is the house that Oprah built. She also has a lot of females in high, key positions and I like that as well, she is very pro women but not anti men and she has been very positive with her power and she has been respectful of that power. She has always asked people to be honest with her and she will be honest with you and I think that is what is so different about her show.

What makes you proud? Like anyone you have a personal life and professional life.

Personally, my family life makes me very happy, my son and my immediate family we are very close, it is very warm and satisfying and professionally I would say it is that I still love to sing and that people are still willing to come and see me sing and that I have made a name for myself as a singer, that was something I wanted to do when growing up in the flat on the council estate all those years ago.

Is there anyone you would like to work or perform with? There are a few people but I have always said I would not mind working with Missy Elliott, as I really admire her because she does things on her own terms, I like that, and she has a certain sound and really good ears; also she is able to create something interesting.

Who were your musical heroes when you were growing up? I loved Gladys Knight and Luther Vandross, I waited weeks for his album to come out. I now love Nina Simone, Natalie Cole and Ella Fitzgerald. I love voices and I have always been swayed by the female voice but there are some men that get in there like Marvin Gaye.

What is the oddest/strangest thing you have received from a fan? Fans are normally quite supportive and lovely I have to say, but one time I did get one from a fan it said “for Heather’s eyes only” and they said if you’re not Heather it said something about shrivelling up and dying. That was quite strange as the letter itself was quite sweet and that was worrying.

What is the strangest thing you have ever read about yourself? Most probably that I was married and I have never been married. The word marriage brings me out in a nervous tick!

What does 2016 hold for Heather Small? A lot of singing, I owe it to myself this year because I am now a far better singer than I was 20 years ago and I enjoy it just as much.

See Heather Small live Saturday 20 February at the Leisure Centre, Stevenage Wednesday 24 February at the Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes

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Interview with Katherine Ryan

When Katherine Ryan takes her new show on the road, you can be sure of one thing: Kathbum will include the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Well, sort of. “This show is pretty honest; I might take some liberties, but comedians do the opposite from politicians. Politicians will tell little truths that if you see them written down in a newspaper seem to be true, but the bigger picture is an entire lie. Comedians will tell tiny lies while the big picture is hopefully more truthful. I’ll change bits of stories and names so that a story about my dad is actually about my uncle and a story about that boyfriend is actually about this boyfriend.”

A huge hit at the 2015 Edinburgh Fringe, Kathbum is further confirmation that London-based Canadian Ryan is on a scintillatingly rich vein of form right now.

The show features ruminations on our celebrity culture obsession (a topic she also explored in her last touring show, Glam Role Model), and more personal material about the recent wedding of her younger sister back in their hometown of Sarnia. Extra jeopardy for that event was provided by the fact that Katherine’s sister married a Filipino whose family remained less than enamoured by a satirical remark made by the comedian on Mock The Week in 2013 (the real target of her joke was the cosmetics industry).

“I’m a good person, that’s the thing; I didn’t want to hurt anyone. I never want to hurt anybody. So, if you’re a fan of the kind of comedy that satirises, you can see what I’m poking fun at. There’s no way that I’d be making cheap jokes about Filipino children but they just hear the words and that can be really frustrating. I made a speech at the wedding and I did mention that incident so it got a little tense in places, but everyone was fine. What I wasn’t expecting was that people had bits in their speech at my expense, but it was all really fun and the last thing I wanted was for my sister’s wedding to be ruined.”

Across the course of a lengthy tour, Ryan is always keen to include topical material. “It’s tough to do an identical set on and off for a whole year and an audience can tell when you’re just delivering lines, so I try to mix things up. The first section will be celebrity and news stuff with some local bits and that has to evolve because news keeps happening.”

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As part of Ryan’s celebrity section, she’ll be discussing such figures as Taylor Swift, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Peter Andre and the late Joan Rivers. “A lot of my celebrity material is looking at the meta narrative and at what’s happening behind the scenes.

With many reality TV stars, their weight is 100% engineered. They start to get a bit fat because they’re on TV shows where they’re paid to get drunk and fight, then the managers arrange for photos to be taken of their star on the beach wearing a pink bikini and eating a McDonald’s. And then their trainer helps them lose weight so they can flog the book and DVD and fashion line. It’s happened so many times with the girls on Geordie Shore and Big Brother. That’s what entertains me: you can put on this puppet show and people don’t seem to notice.”

Ryan has a cuttingly great line in Kathbum about Joan Rivers, but once again the joke is coming from a warm place. Some commentators have even suggested that Ryan may well be the new Rivers. “As in, am I going to die under the knife?” she jokes. “I’ve always loved Joan Rivers; I used to stay up late on a Friday for my big treat and watch Letterman or Leno and I was into Joan, Bette Midler and all these great female comedians. I don’t agree with everything that Joan did or said, but it took a real tenacity to achieve what she did as a single mum. She grafted and grafted and was adored and respected by other comedians. She did a lot of great things in the industry and was confrontational but not just for the sake of it. If I could have all those things, that would be great.”

Rivers spent a substantial amount of her later career stalking the catwalks and red carpets in order to tear apart the fashion choices of the rich and famous. Ryan, too, is highly fashion-conscious and feels that looking good on stage is akin to keeping up her side of the live experience bargain. “I love fashion and I always wear a dress at a show.

Fashion is an art and I like to support British designers. I’ve learned from my two 8

previous tours that people will invest in a night out. It’s important to them and it’s important to me, so I’ll dress up. The comedians who are recognisable to people are cartoon versions of themselves and I think the public want to see the version of me that they see on the panel shows. There’s no way that you’d see Jimmy Carr in a tracksuit or you’d think that something was seriously up.”

As well as not turning up to very much in her running gear (though she does admit to occasionally doing the school run in her slippers), Ryan will just as rarely be seen in anything that doesn’t show off her comedic talents. There are the panel shows she’s appeared on as well as having acting roles of varying size in Channel 4’s Campus, as well as the BBC’s Episodes and Badults. But Ryan hopes that things are moving away from the funny man/female eye-candy duos who have been prevalent for far too long on British light entertainment shows. Her integral role in a show such as BBC Three’s Hair is one sign that things might be changing.

“The men are generally allowed to be really funny on these things and the women are almost exclusively dolly birds just standing there, often next to a 60-year-old man who’s funny. Mel and Sue in Bake Off have changed that and I think that there should be more of a female funny voice so I was happy to be asked to do Hair. I do think you’ll see more funny females presenting stuff. I’d love to see Sarah Millican presenting Bake Off.” While Ryan is clearly looking forward to taking Kathbum across the country, she suggests that a break from touring is on the cards. This is partly due to being a mother to sixyear-old Violet and also to get more writing done as she aims to get two sitcoms off the ground: “one I’ve written is about Hooters and another one is about golf and being a single mum [she has experience of all three to draw upon].

“Also, my face is beginning to annoy people, so I’m happy to work from home for a while and do some writing. I’d love to get a comedy series off the ground but I’d need to not be on tour to do that.”

For now, though, Katherine Ryan will be putting everything she’s got into Kathbum to make it a success and she sees the live circuit as a place to have full rein on getting her ideas across. “Comedy is a conversation and you can’t do that on panel shows. You have to get out there and go on tour and it makes you better as a comic.”

See Katherine Ryan in “Kathbum” Sunday 14 February at Milton Keynes Theatre Thursday 18th February at Harpenden Public Halls

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“Simples!!” Or is it?

Businesses of any size must tread carefully when dealing with misconduct. It is essential for employers in misconduct situations to: • • •

Follow the relevant procedures Take all the relevant information and legal requirements into account Act as a reasonable employer

When a company makes a decision on a disciplinary it needs to ensure that: 1. A thorough investigation has taken place in relation to the allegations 2. The relevant punishment – such as dismissal - is received by all employees involved Matthew from Consensus HR explains: “I know that this can be hard for employers who do not have the manpower to carry out correct procedures. In these cases, they should seek the relevant support needed.”

An incident at London Zoo’s Christmas party, reported by Mail Online, illustrates this issue…

A meerkat handler was dismissed for glassing a zoo colleague during Christmas party catfight over a llama keeper. The victim needed stitches in her face as a result of the attack.

The meerkat handler was subsequently sacked. But she launched an employment tribunal against the zoo for unfair dismissal and disability discrimination, claiming she had ADHD and dyspraxia a condition which made her exceptionally clumsy.

The Central London Employment Tribunal, headed by Judge Hilary Norris, found that she was not a victim of disability discrimination.

But the panel ruled that she was wrongly dismissed because both women should have been fired.

The two workers were found guilty of the same thing at their disciplinary hearings, the hearing heard.

The panel also criticised the zoo's disciplinary process for failing to take into account all the evidence.

Despite also being involved in the violence, the victim of the glassing was only given a final written warning and banned from attending company social events.

The tribunal found that the company differentiated between the two women solely due to the difference in physical injuries sustained. The action taken did not take into account impartial witnesses’ accounts that stated that both women had instigated the fight at different times.

In their judgement, the tribunal panel wrote: 'We conclude that no reasonable employer would have reached the decision that the entire responsibility for the incident should be placed at the Claimant's door and that [the other woman] was not blameworthy.’

The Tribunal concluded: 'Both women were accused and found guilty of the same conduct, but ultimately one was dismissed and the other given a two year final written warning.

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'In all the circumstances, we find that it was not within the band of reasonable responses, open to a reasonable employer, to dismiss the Claimant in circumstances where it did not also dismiss [the other woman].'

Despite finding in her favour, the panel refused to award the Claimant any compensation because both of the women should have been sacked.

This story illustrates how important it is to manage disciplinary situations carefully and correctly, taking professional advice as needed.

If you need professional HR advice. Contact Matthew Call 01462 621243 or email him via matthew@consensushr.com

The Danish Girl – A Trans therapist’s viewpoint I saw The Danish Girl last night on its first day of release here in the UK. The international hype had already lifted the film onto my ‘must see’ list and I was not disappointed. This is the big screen at its best, with a first class cast and a story told within the plot constraints and time limitations of a film on general release. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good romance or who has personal interest, or is just curious, about what it may be like to be transgendered.

What may not be clear to everyone is that, although based on true life, the film is taken from a romantic piece of fiction which was based on the autobiography of Lili Elbe. The film does not portray her transition as it really happened; nor, I believe, does it claim to do so, although it does follow the main elements of her adult life. I have no wish to disclose spoilers for those who may be considering going to see the film. However, I would advise to take it at face value, as a piece of beautifully portrayed romance and enjoy it for that reason alone. If you gain insight about what it may be like for a trans person to ‘come out’ to loved ones and to undertake the journey of transition then that would be a bonus. However, I add the caveat that the film is fictional and, more importantly, is a period piece set some 80 years ago, before society, and the medical profession itself, was willing to accept the possibility of gender dysphoria and all the pain and turmoil that living with this condition entails. The diagnosis of insanity or schizophrenia applied in the film was, I am sure, all too commonly used then for psychological conditions that the medical profession today takes in its stride and deals with sympathetically.

Being transgendered is not a new concept. Historically there are references going back to ancient Greece and beyond. Native North American Indians have the concept of twospirit people where, for example, biologically male ‘warriors’ lived with and undertook the woman’s roles and responsibilities within the tribe. The Hijra caste of Asia is also recorded back to antiquity, including a rite of passage which involves the removal of the male genitalia. There are many other examples.

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The gender roles are largely blurred in these situations, being neither fully male nor fully female. They do away with the traditionally recognised binary nature of gender and sexuality (male: female / man: woman) which is the accepted pattern in most of the world. Instead they incorporate the non-binary values of transgender, gender variance, gender queer, gender fluidity and many more terms in use today. The same reasoning also applies to sexuality with non-binary labels such as gay, lesbian, questioning, pansexual, bisexual and asexual. The list of non-heteronormative labels available for use today seems to be ever expanding. Is it any wonder that some people are confused and question their own gender or sexual orientation as they seek to fit in?

Today we have counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists and a whole raft of medical expertise and awareness available to people dealing with these difficulties. Society is becoming more accepting of difference, although it is acknowledged that this acceptance is not universal. Lili had no such help available to her and had to seek out whatever surgical intervention she could, which was in its infancy and was largely innovative, experimental and perhaps even bordering on illegal. Was Lili the first person to undergo male-to-female reassignment surgery? She is certainly the first recorded recipient of this kind of operation, having undergone surgery five times between 1930 and 1931. The next documented male-to-female surgery was carried out in the UK on Roberta Cowell (1951) followed by the more internationally famous Christine Jørgensen who had her surgery in Denmark in late 1952. (As a point of interest, the first recorded female-to-male reassignment surgery was carried out in the UK during 1946-49 for Michael Dillon).

Reassignment surgery today is relatively commonplace and is carried out in many countries. Precise surgical techniques, excellent after-care and modern medication all ensure a successful physical outcome. Psychological assessment and support is also readily available for those who wish to explore their own feelings and self-awareness before considering whether or not transition and/or surgical intervention is necessary; this is very different to the early pioneering days of Lili and the others.

I thoroughly enjoyed watching the film, which brought about many poignant and personal recollections for me in connection with my own journey. I would like to share one such moment (without giving away any spoilers). There is a short scene where Einar (Lili) and his then wife Gerda are practising walking in a more feminine way. They use a line of flagstones in an alleyway to ensure they take small steps, with the feet facing forward and that they walk in a straight line. This may not have been obvious to many others who were watching the film with me. However, I smiled to myself as that is exactly how I learned to walk with a more feminine style except that I used the tiled floors in the London Underground: it worked!

KIrstie McEwan is a trans therapist at LCC.

If you have any similar issues and would like to access some help or information, please contact LCC. Sessions start from ÂŁ15.00 By phone 01462-674671 or email hello@localcounsellingcentre.co.uk Website www.localcounsellingcentre.co.uk

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9 Reasons to Make a Will Radio 2 recently reported that the majority of adults do not have a valid will in place. Given the relatively low cost of having one professionally prepared there is no excuse, and it can avoid a potential mess being left behind for your loved ones to clear up.

And if you still need convincing – read on……

1. you get to choose who benefits from your estate - without a will, the intestacy rules apply and there is no provision for unmarried partners - if a couple die together and have no children, there is a presumption that the younger survived the elder, so everything goes to the younger’s relatives 2. it ensures your wishes are binding - the executors dealing with your will are required to comply with certain rules 3. to make sure the funeral arrangements you want are clear - it is still important to make your next of kin aware of your wishes as the funeral may take place before your will is even found 4. allows you to have a voice about your children - you can appoint legal guardians - if you want someone to care for your children who would not usually be considered their next of kin then you can explain your reasons 5. it can safeguard your business - you ideally need to consider in advance tax points such as IHT (Inheritance Tax) relief - decide who to leave as the majority shareholder – although this would also need to be in accordance with any shareholders agreement 6. enables you to leave gifts to charity - many charities rely heavily on bequests in wills - these gifts are free of IHT 7. it enables you to make minor/specific bequests - the intestacy rules simply split your estate into percentages - you may prefer to make individual gifts of personal items e.g. jewellery 8. allows you to choose your own executors - you can save money with less professional involvement if you appoint friends or relatives - you can avoid overburdening your next of kin as there is a presumption they will deal with the estate if there is no will 9. it enables you to take advantage of some tax planning - getting professional advice on a will includes reviewing your IHT position and how it will get paid If you would like to make a will, please contact our James Blakemore on 01992 631461 or email him at james.blakemore@curwens.co.uk Curwens LLP is your local firm of solicitors offering most areas of legal advice – based in Royston, Hoddesdon and Enfield.

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Artist Profile- Robert Hale Inspired by Henry Moore, this creative and talented artist, Robert Hale has exhibited and sold art throughout the United Kingdom and the world and is currently exhibiting at Mardleybury Gallery in Datchworth.

Born and schooled in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, he finished his schooling and was then accepted at Amersham College to study a diploma in art. During the three years at the college he decided to specialise in painting.

He was then accepted at the Slade School of Art at University College London, graduating in 1985.

After graduating, his work was featured at the '85 Degree show at the Serpentine gallery London and at the Leicester schools show.

He continued to paint until 1989 while living in a small London flat. The birth of his son in 1989 led to a need for a more secure income and he began to work fulltime for a Fine Art Shipping company. At this stage he gave up painting.

Fifteen years later having not picked up a paint brush in so many years he met his wife Sue who encouraged him to set up a studio and start paint again. He now spends as much time as possible creating art with the backing and support of his amazing, understanding and patient wife!

He continues to work full time but has managed to paint and sell work privately to buyers in England, Kenya, Luxembourg, Italy and the United States.

He paints a variety of subjects; having lived very near to woodlands and spending a couple of years on the Thames has inspired his landscape work. Robert has always had a fascination with figure work and feelings and auras associated with people. Most of his work is occupied by this. He tries to capture emotions and atmospheres in his paintings.

Using many different materials helps to keep the processes fresh and constantly experimental. The pieces are evolved and developed not planned and executed; a way of creating that is always exciting as the route to the finished product is never predictable even though the journey goes through (at times) agony, pain and despair to then wonder, joy and huge contentment.

Painting for Robert is living. Really living!

Robert’s paintings are on Display and for sale at Mardleybury Gallery in Datchworth. For more information go to www.mardleyburygallery.co.uk 14

Valentines Day

You may never have expected to fall in love with a hat this Valentines day. But check this out! Hertfordshire based Twin Hats is the social enterprise set up by Cancer Hair Care charity founder Jasmin Julia Gupta who was a top hairdresser to the stars with Trevor Sorbie in days gone by.

Buy one hat and they GIFT one free to a child with cancer.

The special LOVE range features 12 beautiful fairly traded, hand made hats, using 100% natural wool and fleece lined.

Hand wrapped in heart tissue paper and finished with an organic chocolate heart.

For the month of love don’t forget the all important ‘love yourself first’ approach, that means taking time out to ‘treat yourself’. In addition to showering your loved ones with presents, practice ‘self-care’ by treating yourself to some natural mood boosters. Chocolate is of course the food of love, if its real chocolate it’s also high in antioxidants and incredibly good for you.

Check out the gorgeous artisan bars from Seed and Bean…. This ethical organic 100 per cent natural chocolate is suitable for vegans - the perfect gift.

Don’t forget the benefits of chocolate for the skin too, you can make your own raw chocolate face mask, its high in antioxidants and very soothing for the skin, you’ll get all the indulgence without the guilt!

Organic Chocolate Face Mask 2 tbs raw organic cocao powder 1 tbs honey 1tbs live yoghurt 3 tbs fine oatmeal Blend together the ingredients, apply and leave on for 20 minutes, if you prefer the mask to be moisturising but not exfoliating leave out the oatmeal.

You could even increase quantities and add coconut oil for a full body wrap.

If DIY is not for you, try the gorgeous Organic Chocolate face mask from Inlight, the creator Dr Mariano Spiezia says "Chocolate contains the lipid anandamide, also known as the chocolate amphetamine, for its ability to lift mood and decrease depression (yet not addictive like caffeine). It also contains more than 300 skin-loving compounds 15

including: iron, zinc, copper, calcium, magnesium and sulphur. What nourishment! www.inlight-online.co.uk

Kissable choccy lips You could also try the sumptuous Chocolate lip balm from Beyond Organic, Contains Calendula and Chamomile for their soothing and healing properties. www.beyondorganicskincare.com

Treat your hair with chocolate too Faith in Nature Chocolate Shampoo www.faithinnature.co.uk

This luxurious blend of organic Cocoa and Vanilla is infused with sage so it’s a sumptuous treat for your hair and scalp. It contains anti-oxidant flavonoids, helping to protect against the ageing process. When showering and washing the hair, the sweet aroma of organic chocolate is released which gives you the feel good factor. There’s a chocolate conditioner too, smells good enough to eat with a mild chocolate fragrance and it foams up well. Washing hair with chocolate has been a big hit with my children with the bonus of leaving their hair shiny and soft

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2016 looks like it will be a great year for movies, here’s my take on the most anticipated movies for Spring.

The Big Short (out now)

From imdb.com: Four denizens of the world of high-finance predict the credit and housing bubble collapse of the mid2000s, and decide to take on the big banks for their greed and lack of foresight.

Unexpectedly from Adam Mckay (predominantly a comedy director/ writer known for Anchorman and Step Brothers) comes the important, relevant and performance-driven drama The Big Short. Showcasing a mighty ensemble of actors including Bale, Carell, Gosling and Pitt, The Big Short looks to make an enthralling and fun spectacle of a, let's be honest, deathly boring topic. But It doesn't matter what your movie is, if it assembles a cast of this much charisma, likability and prowess, I'm in!

Spotlight (out now) From imdb.com: The true story of how the Boston Globe uncovered the massive scandal of child molestation and cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese, shaking the entire Catholic Church to its core.

Following the success of 2014's Birdman, Michael Keaton is back and with a stellar cast including Rachel McAdams and Mark Ruffalo in this critically acclaimed and controversialthemed drama based on the true events of the sexual abuse scandal in Boston archdiocese. Spotlight has picked up several Academy Award nominations and looks hugely apt to succeed.

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Hail, Caesar! (February) From imbd.com: A Hollywood fixer in the 1950s works to keep the studio's stars in line. Superb ensemble casts are becoming a bit of a pattern so far aren't they? The Coen Brothers new film Hail, Caesar! is no different. George Clooney, Ralph Fiennes, Josh Brolin, Scarlett Johansson and far too much other talent to name, star in this quirky and comical-looking comedy/drama epic. Hail, Caesar! is in the hands of a visual expert, with Roger Deakins helming the cinematography. You can get a sense on viewing Hail, Caesars!'s trailers that it's stylistic atmosphere will showcase the period it's portraying delightfully.

10 Cloverfield Lane (UK release date unconfirmed) From imdb.com: Waking up from a car accident, a young woman finds herself in the basement of a man who says he's saved her life from a chemical attack that has left the outside uninhabitable The premise of this unofficial Cloverfield sequel alone is a chilling and exciting concept. J.J. Abrams, fresh from the Star Wars 7 buzz has returned to the producers chair for this more arty, concentrated and frankly, better-looking Cloverfield movie. How they've managed to keep this under the radar until now is impressive considering today's tendencies to reveal a movie months before any actual release. 10 Cloverfield Lane's trailer has done what it's supposed to by leaving us teased yet speculative and uncertain. It's safe to say Abrams' new project looks a step-up from 2008's Cloverfield and, let's be honest, most disaster movies in recent time.

All in all we’re off to a very strong start!

Sonny Etchell is a 17 year old film reviewer www.sonnyetchell.com

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Hero Cheese of the Month – Godminster This month’s cheese is Godminster, situated in Somerset and home to Richard Hollingbery and his family.

Primarily a dairy farm, Richard decided to go organic in 1996, convinced this was the best way to make a difference. High quality products begin with the high quality ingredients they produce at Godminster Farm, in particular great milk from their divine cows.

Last year was an outstanding year for them, winning numerous awards. They won the following International Cheese awards in 2015, GOLD for their Oak-Smoked Vintage Organic Cheddar, GOLD for their Organic Brie with Black Pepper, GOLD for their Organic Brie with Garlic & Chive and SILVER for their Vintage Organic Cheddar. They also won gold, silver and bronze awards at The Global Cheese awards and British Cheese awards in 2015.

Their cheddar is organic, containing no preservatives, so they recommend refrigeration at all times at 5°C. Remove from the fridge an hour before serving to allow the cheese to warm to room temperature and bring out the flavour.

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No need to remove the wax. In fact, they find their cheese keeps its creamy consistency best if you keep it in the wax. The cheese can be scooped or sliced. Either score around the top and use it as a lid, scooping the cheese out, or cut through the wax like you would a cake. If there's any left replace the lid, wrap the whole cheese in cling film and refrigerate.

Their aim is to create a self-sustaining environment where nature can regenerate and flourish, rather than erode our delicate ecosystem on the farm from the effects of artificial, intensive farming. Over the last decade, they have created and restored numerous natural habitats and native species have returned. Their ideal of maximising sustainability involves the use of all these habitats, which in turn foster a wealth of benefits.

The essential raw ingredients that they grow determine what products are created.

Everything grown at Godminster is certified organic by the Soil Association, who inspects their farm at least once a year.

The UK government has said that organic farming is kinder to wildlife and the environment, causes lower contamination from sprays, has a lower carbon footprint and less dangerous waste. A cleaner environment encourages biodiversity. This includes birds, insects, mammals and plants.

On a lighter note, Godmister has beautiful heart shape cheese just for Valentine’s day, so if you are looking for something special for the one you love, pop over to The Cheese Plate in Buntingford where Tony Archer, Award winning Cheesemonger stocks their cheese.

26 High Street, Buntingford, Herts, SG9 9AQ www.thecheeseplate.co.uk Tele: 01763 271533 Email: Toby@thecheeseplate.co.uk

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Plastic bag tax success. Should sugar and meat follow?

The number of plastic bags taken home by Tesco shoppers has dropped by almost 80% since a 5p levy was introduced. Surely this proves that tax should be used make people change their habits for the better? Should a tax on sugary drinks and meat follow?

We wrote a blog four years ago recommending a tax on plastic bags and recently about a tax on sugary drinks and meat. In our opinion the success of the plastic bag tax proves that the government should govern, and make decisions that might be unpopular to some people but, in the long run, be good for us all.

And in the case of sugar the revenue raised could contribute to the huge NHS cost.

What I find incredibly disappointing is how slow the government reacts to what has worked in other countries. A plastic bag tax was launched in Ireland in 2002 and a sugary drink tax has existed in Mexico for 2 years. As the NHS spend nearly ÂŁ1billion on diabetes something must be done, and quickly.

www.bigbarn.co.uk

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Brookmans Pub – Review

By Terry Sullivan

Between Christmas and the New Year, my wife and I took a drive to Brookmans Park to have lunch at Brookmans, a gastro pub in the heart of the town.

The first thing you notice as you walk through the door is the spacious, airy, bright restaurant with some great vintage posters and a view into the kitchen so you can watch the chefs at work. Brookmans has a top Chef - David Howard, formerly of The Noke Thistle St Albans and The Royal Chace Hotel Enfield. He has created a brand new winter menu featuring big, bold flavours - new this season are starters of Game Terrine, Spiced Apple Chutney & Toasted Bloomer and Free-range Chicken with Tagliatelle, Wholegrain Mustard Cream, and Crispy Kale. Mains include Enderby Smoked Haddock & Whole Grain Mustard Fishcake with Creamed Leeks and Slow-cooked Shoulder of Cornish Lamb, Roasted Squash & Spinach with Mint Jus.

For Starters I chose Mushrooms & Garlic Aioli - obviously homemade with a crisp crumb and smooth garlic aioli and my wife had the Brixham Crab Cocktail, Guacamole, Crispy Tacos – a generous portion of tasty crab, refreshing salsa and chunky guacamole with crispy lettuce.

For Main course we had Venison Hot Pot & Braised Red Cabbage – beautiful tender chunks of venison, piping hot and the red cabbage not too spicy - and Lemon & Thyme Roasted Free-range Chicken, Fries & Watercress Aioli – crispy skin, tender moist chicken

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which actually tasted of lemon and thyme, a tangy dressing on the watercress, with a smooth mayo served with a small jug of gravy.

Then to finish off the meal for dessert we ordered Sticky Toffee & Banana Pudding, Toffee Sauce, Malted Banana Ice Cream - moist and full of flavour and Pear, Almond & Amaretto Trifle – a serious portion of trifle with delicate flavours.

In addition to great food and friendly efficient service, Brookmans offers a varied good priced wine and drinks list including gin based drinks, hot toddies and mocktails.

All this plus Free high speed WiFi and a large car park - but remember to register your car at the bar to avoid a ticket!

To keep guests visiting Brookmans' popular bar well fed as well as watered, David has also devised a menu of bar snacks that is served until late into the evening. Home-made sausage rolls with caramelised onions and brown sauce; pork scratchings with apple and cider brandy sauce and honey mustard glazed ribs fly out of the kitchen every night.

Brookmans new winter menu was created by head chef David Howard and is now being served at the popular gastro pub. To book a table for lunch or dinner today by calling Brookmans on 01707 664144 or going to www.brookmanspub.com Brookmans is at Bradmore Green, Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire, AL9 7QW

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disco, for just £5 per person. This fully interactive screening of the classic film with on-screen subtitles is “The one that you want”. The host will lead a vocal warm up, judge a fancy dress competition and show you how to use your magic moments fun pack...then sit back and sing-a-long with John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John and the gang.

Fancy dress is strongly encouraged! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Herts Listings Ashridge Estate - Ashridge Winter Trail - til Mon 29 Feb Come and explore winter magic at Ashridge. This trail will help you to find out what the Ashridge wildlife does in winter. Can you see any animal footprints or are they all asleep' Booking Not Needed. Ashridge Estate, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamsted HP4 1LX Stanborough Park Health Walks - Tue 2, Tue 9, Sun 14, Tue 16 Feb If you want to get outdoors and be more active this summer, why not join a Stanborough Park Health Walk.

All walks take between 45 minutes to an hour; involve no stiles; are buggy accessible and suitable for all ages and abilities.

Stanborough Park, Stanborough Lakes, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6DQ

Coull String Quartet concert - Fri 5 Feb Programme includes:- Haydn: String Quartet Op 74 No 1 Villa-Lobos: String Quartet No 1 Sibelius: String Quartet Op 56 Admission price includes programme Free parking on site Licensed bar Pre concert dining available for £30 per person. Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

February Frolics - til Sun 21 Feb Live lambing daily in Willows Lambing Marquee with bottle feeding demonstrations and talk

by Willows shepherd. Find Bo-Peeps lost sheep and win a prize, plus woolly arts and crafts, baa-rilliant family shows and a full day’s programme of fun. Willows Activity Farm. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF

Stephen K Amos - The Laughing Master - Fri 5 Feb The maestro of feel-good comedy is back on tour with his new show. Fresh from touring UK and Australia. Star of Life: An Idiot’s Guide and What Does the K Stand For? (Radio 4). “Amos is officially becoming a national treasure. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

The Mikado - Wed 3 to Sat 6 Feb Abbots Langley Gilbert & Sullivan Society presents: The Mikado by WS Gilbert & Arthur Sullivan 7.30pm Saturday matinee 2.30pm Set in the bustling town of Titipu, Japan. Watford Palace Theatre WD17 1JZ

Bushey Over 30s 40s & 50s PARTY for Singles & Couples - Fri 5 Feb New & Unmissable! Over 30s 40s & 50s party nights for singles and couples with top DJ playing your favourite chart and dance music from ’80s to date. From 8.30pm till 1am Bushey Sports Club, Aldenham Road, Bushey, nr Watford WD23 2TR

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt - Thu 4 and Fri 5 Feb Direct from a smash-hit West End run and international tour, Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Mr Albert’s Big Finish - Sat 6 Feb Mr Albert’s Theatre is about to close, Charlie the Caretaker wants to save it by putting on a variety show, but they need a Big Finish! Will the Safety Inspector let Charlie do something dangerous? The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

National Trust Watford and District Association - Thu 4 Feb Adam Smith talks about Blenheim Palace. The palace was created as a monument to victory following John Churchill’s great victory at Blenheim in 1704 when Queen Anne presented him with a great royal estate at Woodstock Stanborough Centre, 609 St Albans Road, Garston, Watford WD25 9JL

Letchworth Hall Hotel Wedding Fair - Sun 7 Feb Visit this period wedding venue in North Hertfordshire. Enjoy two fashion shows featuring amazing bridal gowns at 12:30pm and 2:30pm. See local companies including John Lewis, Welwyn. Doors Open 11am-4pm Free Entry and Free Parking. Letchworth Hall Hotel, Letchworth SG6 3NP

Sing-A-Long-A Grease - Fri 5 Feb 7:30pm.

Tickets £16. Post-Show Disco Party like it’s your last day at Rydell High at the post-show

Singers at the Barn - Sun 7 Feb Come along to Singers at the Barn for an evening packed full of live music by our talented line up of

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singers. Grab your friends and make haste to our Club Room door and bar which open at 7.00 pm. Barn Theatre Club Room, Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST

Rover, Seven Drunken Nights, The Rare Auld Times, Molly Malone and many more. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Battle of the Bands - Mon 8 Feb Enjoy an evening of student bands, from rock to acoustic duos as they battle it out to win the title and be crowned the ultimate music band at Sandringham School. Who will win? Has your band got what it takes? The Sand Pit Theatre, Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX

Tropicana Nights - Fri 12 Feb 8pm – late.Tickets £9. Treat yourself...for an extra £10 per person, your group will have your very own reserved seating area for the evening as well as a cocktail each. Minimum group of 6 required - please note there is limited VIP availability. If you are looking for a fun-filled evening of pure 80s music and dancing for the over 25s, then look no further! Tropicana Nights specialises in good old-fashioned party nights. Whether you go all out in your favourite 80s outfit or not, you are guaranteed to get in the party mood as soon as you walk into the room. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Ricky Pancake Race - Tue 9 Feb Teams from local businesses will be flipping pancakes along Rickmansworth High Street, to compete for the honour of being the Best Flipper.

Come along and watch them, many in fancy dress. Rickmansworth High Street WD3 1AN Gym Display - Tue 9 Feb Sandringham School presents their annual Gym Display 2016.

Showcasing the choreography of their budding your gymnasts combined with some spectacular routines from the senior troupes.

The Sand Pit Theatre, Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX

Chantel McGregor - Fri 12 Feb Public Halls, Harpenden AL5 1PD Jumble Sale in aid of Cats Protection Hemel Hempstead & Berkhamsted - Sat 13 Feb Jumble sales are great fun so if you have never been to one do come to ours! Books, toys and games, clothes of all shapes and sizes (some of them nearly new) from baby to adult, shoes, bric-a-brac, sheets, curtains, cushions. The Village Hall, Potten End, nr Berkhamsted HP4 2QG

“Hawk and Hummer Migration - Texas” – Peter Wilkinson - Wed 10 Feb Illustrated talk organised by Watford Local RSPB Group. Peter is well known to us as a barn owl expert but most autumns he makes his way to Corpus Christi in Texas to witness the awesome sight of the mass migration of thousands of hawks.

Stanborough Centre, 609, St Albans Rd, Watford WD25 9JL

Bach’s St Matthew Passion dramatised and featuring James Gilchrist and Thomas Guthrie - Sat 13 Feb Bach’s St Matthew Passion is one of the great masterpieces of Western music. At its heart is a story of the most profound drama - the arrest, betrayal, condemnation and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

The Cathedral and Abbey Church of St Albans, Sumpter Yard, St Albans AL1 1BY

Only Fools And 3 Courses - Wed 10 Feb Dinner 8pm.Tickets £40 includes three-course meal. Marlene and Boycie are hosting a Gala Dinner, but will things go to plan with Del, Rodney and Uncle Albert on the guest list?

Expect a big fun night out in a friendly party atmosphere with some of the finest comedy actors in the land, produced to the highest standards with your enjoyment at the top of the menu. Lovely Jubbly! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

The Little Hadham Antiques Fair - Sun 14 Feb Signposted off the A120 between Puckeridge & Bishop’s Stortford .Little Hadham Village Hall SG11 2BP

The Dublin Legends - Formerly The Dubliners - Thu 11 Feb 7:30pm.Tickets £23, £21. The Dublin Legends (Sean Cannon, Eamonn Campbell, Paul Watchorn and Gerry O’Connor) have over 60 years of performing with The Dubliners between them and will continue to play all the classic songs such as Whiskey in The Jar, Dirty Old Town, The Wild

Afternoon Tea for St Valentine’s Day - Sun 14 Feb Afternoon Tea for St Valentine’s Day .

Arrival between 2.30pm & 3.30pm £10 per person (add a glass of Prosecco for £3.50) Place House Hall Bluecoat Yard, East Street, Ware SG12 9HL

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Ed Byrne - Sun 14 Feb 8pm.Tickets £20.That bloke. You know. The Irish guy. No, not the bald one. The other one. You know him. The one Carol from work really likes. Wait, that might be Jason Byrne. Anyway. Funny chap.

Has a new show! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

School Half Term Holiday Activities. Clay Monster Model - Thu 18 Feb Design and create your own Monster Model in clay School Holiday Activities Children must have a parent or guardian on the premises at all times during their visit unless otherwise stated. Mill Green Mill & Museum, Bush Hall Lane, Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD

Once Upon a Time... - Tue 16 to Thu 18 Feb10.30 am – 3.30 pm (last entry 3.00 pm) £1.50 per child Join us this half term as we continue the celebrations with National Storytelling Week! Hertford Museum, Hertford SG14 1DT

Breadmaking Beginners Course - Sat 20 Feb Bake an old fashioned white tin loaf, hearty wholemeal and soda breads. Step by step our friendly instructor shows you how simple it can be, and it tastes delicious! The cost of £85 includes all materials, mill tour, lunch and information pack. Mill Green Mill & Museum, Bush Hall Lane, Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD

School Half Term Holiday Activities. Monster Mask - Tue 16 Feb Make a Monster Mask to scare your friends with! School Holiday Activities Children must have a parent or guardian on the premises at all times during their visit unless otherwise stated. Mill Green Mill & Museum, Bush Hall Lane, Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD

Peppa Pig’s Surprise - Sat 20 – Sun 21 Feb. Saturday 1pm & 4pm, Sunday 10am & 1pm Premium Seats (In Front Two Rows) £20.

Tickets £17, £15. Family Of Four £15 (Must Include 1 Adult – not available on premium seats) Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in a brand-new live stage show, Peppa Pig’s Surprise. It’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends.

Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and George – they can’t guess what it is, can you? Enjoy fun, games and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show with new songs and new life size puppets, Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers!

Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Sticks and Stones Presents: Children of Eden - Wed 17 to Sat 20 Feb Children of Eden is a frank, heartfelt and humorous examination of the age-old conflict between parents and children. Adam, Eve, Noah and the "Father" who created them deal with the headstrong, cataclysmic actions of their respective children. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL School Half Term Holiday Activities. Monster Puppet - Wed 17 Feb Make your own monster moving puppet. School Holiday Activities Children must have a parent or guardian on the premises at all times during their visit unless otherwise stated. Mill Green Mill & Museum, Bush Hall Lane, Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD

The Hertfordshire Wedding Fair - Sun 21 Feb Whether you are looking for the latest wedding gift ideas or a beautiful wedding venue from around Hertfordshire or beyond, this is the wedding fair to visit for inspiration.

The wedding fair hosts over 70 quality exhibitors The Alban Arena, St Albans AL1 3LD

Count Duckula in “The Jewels Of Duckula” Thu 18 Feb Childrens TV Classic “Count Duckula” Live on Stage for the very first time!

This Action Packed adventure is perfect for all the family, as you join Duckula. Nanny and Igor in a race against time to solve the clues and find the long lost treasure. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Pendley Manor Wedding Show - Sun 21 Feb Come & Meet Pendley Manors recommended suppliers. With over 30 of the finest exhibitors from the Hertfordshire area and Buckinghamshire borders. Pendley Manor Hotel, Cow Lane, Tring HP23 5QY

Anniversary Peace Classics - Thu 18 Feb Join us for the launch of Peace Hospice Care’s special 25th anniversary year. In 2016, we will be celebrating a fantastic milestone of 25 years of Peace Hospice Care Clarendon Muse, 70 Rickmansworth Rd, Watford WD18 7JA

Music Club: Tom Poster - Piano - Tue 23 Feb Tom Poster made his London concerto debut at the age of 13 and is now internationally recognised as a pianist of outstanding artistry and versatility. He has regularly featured on

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BBC Radio 3 and at the Proms. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

and downstairs, as the staff and gentry flit their way through dinner. But who’ll end up face first in the fountain or toes up in the topiary? Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Tea Dance - Tue 23 Feb 1pm. Tickets £5.

Tea, coffee and a selection of homemade cakes available. Mr Wonderful returns to the Colosseum with a glittering dance event.

Suited to beginners and experienced dancers alike. Bring your dancing shoes and take to the floor for a graceful, elegant and nostalgic afternoon of dancing. Watford Colosseum’s Tea Dance will evoke memories of a forgotten era and create memories of a new one.

Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Danny Bryant - Thu 25 Feb Danny Bryant + Red Butler. Public Halls, Harpenden AL5 1PD Andy Kirkpatrick - Cold Mountain - Thu 25 Feb A unique story teller and comedian, Andy climbs in some of the most inhospitable places on earth, from Greenland to Alaska, Patagonia to Antarctica. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

All Access Theatre Tours - Tue 23 Feb 1.15pm, 2.30pm & 3.45pm.Tickets £8, includes Cream Tea;£12, includes Cream Tea and Glass of Fizz. 3.45pm includes Organ Tour. No booking fee. Have you ever wanted to tread the boards and stand centre stage?

Have you ever wondered how we create spectacular light shows? Have you ever wanted to peek into the dressing rooms used

by One Direction, Mickey Flanagan, Sarah Millican and Paul Weller? All will be revealed on this guided tour followed by Cream Tea in The Forum Restaurant. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Toddler Mornings - Pop-up Puppet - Thu 25 Feb Join us for our relaxed and fun packed toddler workshops. •Listen to stories •Make something together •Visit the Mill and Museum •Drink and biscuit provided •Coffee or tea for adults Cost £3.00 per toddler Mill Green Mill & Museum, Bush Hall Lane, Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD Jason Donovan - Fri 26 Feb 8pm.Tickets £32.50, £28.50 We can give you more than 10 Good Reasons to join us for this post-show disco – the top one being that it’s just £5 per person! By popular demand, star of stage and screen, Jason Donovan is returning to his roots for a solo tour of his debut five times platinum, 1989 album Ten Good Reasons along with some of his greatest hits.

“Whether it’s theatre or touring I’ve always placed a high importance on giving my fans a great live show! I’m looking forward to bringing all the pieces together and creating a show that gives personality, some great memories and most importantly, giving the audience exactly what they want to hear,” said Jason.

Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Reserve, Ashwell Quarry & Quarry Springs - Tue 23 Feb The Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust Mid Herts Local Wildlife Group are pleased to welcome Chris James, reserve warden and local Landscape and Ecology Officer to tell us about the long term management of this special place. Howlands Baptist Church, The Commons, Welwyn Garden City AL7 4RS Sitting Pretty by Amy Rosenthal - Wed 24 to Sat 27 Feb We are introduced to a pair of unmarried sisters who share a London Flat Nina is brisk, dynamic and gainfully employed whereas Nancy is plump, self-conscious and has been made redundant. The Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre, Local Board Road, Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 2JP

Snooker Legends - Sat 27 Feb Ronnie O’Sullivan headlines a new Snooker Legends Doubles Tournament in Watford. Semi-finals 1pm. Final 7.30pm Semi-Finals Tickets £35, £25, £20.Platinum Tickets £45. including programme)Final Tickets £45, £30, £25.Platinum tickets £55, including program.

Book for both. Tickets £70, £50. Platinum tickets £90, including programme Eight Snooker Legends will team up into four pairs to battle it out for the cash prize. Already confirmed are Ronnie O’Sullivan, Jimmy White, John Parrott, Tony Drago, Tony Knowles and Reanne Evans. An afternoon

Death At Downtown Abbey - Murder Mystery Dinner - Wed 24 Feb Dinner 8pmTickets £30, including three-course meal. Join Earl and Lady Corky (and not forgetting the caustic Aunt Petunia) as they open their doors for a delightful afternoon tea in the gardens.

There’ll be gossip and intrigue from upstairs

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session of two semi-finals, will be followed by the final in the evening which will include a trick shot cabaret. Player line up subject to change. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Old School ’Good Times’ Presents: The Mash Up Mix Night - Fri 5 Feb Something completely different! Old School ‘Good Times’ Presents: The Mash Up Mix Night.

(9pm–1am). The White Hart, 34 High St, Biggleswade SG18 0JL

Music @ Gravelly Barn - Sat 27 Feb Music @ Gravelly Barn proudly presents Rose Fowler.

Rose sings and plays on guitar cover versions of contemporary songs from across the decades in her own inimitable style, as well as her own original songs . The EJD Studio at Gravelly Barn, Gravelly Lane, Braughing SG1 2RD

Bob Marley’s 71st Birthday tribute one love event - Sat 6 and Sun 7 Feb Bob Marley’s birthday tribute night, Live Band on stage Trenchtown Experience Performing Bob Marley and the Wailers Greatest Hits, also DJ Reminisce specialising in Vintage & Old Skool Reggae, Soul & R&B. Dunstable Leisure Centre LU5 4JD

Syd Lawrence Orchestra - Sat 27 Feb This glittering gem of a show remains the best entertainment in town as Chris Dean and The Syd Lawrence Orchestra deliver another fullthrottle performance. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Concert : Daughters of Davis - Sat 6 Feb Daughters of Davis are visiting us for a concert on their "Not playing the game" tour, which has rated by Radio 2 and many other music critics as awesome. The Broadcasters Network, Unit C8 Centre 8, Gosforth Close, Sandy Business Park, Sandy SG19 1RB

The Hatfield House Wedding Fair - Sun 28 Feb A simply wonderful wedding fair with superb fashion shows held in the historic Old Palace at Hatfield House. Fashion shows are at 12.30pm and 2.30pm and feature the latest bridal gowns together with live entertainment. Hatfield House, Hatfield AL9 5NQ

Gifts For All Occasions Craft Fair #4 - Sun 7 Feb11am-3pm. Over 60 Stalls - Free Entry Raffle – Refreshments. Plus a special appearance from Captain America Minion.

The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Rd, Biggleswade SG18 8JH Free Learning Lunchtime Talk - Warden Abbey:The Lost Plot - Mon 8 Feb Margaret Roberts looks at Cistercian monastic life in Warden Abbey in the middle ages, ahead of the release of her book. Learning Lunchtime talks are approximately 1 hour, with time for questions and answers. Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Chris Ramsey: All Growed Up - Sun 28 Feb Critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, Celebrity Juice regular, star of BBC2’s Hebburn, and the man who once got pizza delivered to a moving train has extended his hit tour into Spring 2016! The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Watford Wedding Show - Sun 28 Feb The Watford Wedding Show is the largest Wedding Fair to take place annually in Watford, Hertfordshire Whether you are planning a Wedding or another special occasion then you must put this date in your diary. Woodside Leisure Centre, Horseshoe Lane, Garston, Watford WD25 7HH

Great Estates - Thu 11 Feb Fancy the Downton lifestyle? Find out more about these great estates and the people who lived and worked on them with Bedfordshire Archives Service. Flitwick Library, Coniston Road Flitwick MK45 1QJ Awesome Archaeology - Mon 15 to Fri 19 Feb Get your hands dirty as you become a daring archaeologist on our mini dig for the day. Discover hidden treasures and fantastic finds as you excavate the secrets of Wrest Park. Wrest Park, Silsoe, Luton MK45 4HR

Beds Listings Parish Records - Thu 4 Feb There was more in the parish chest than just parish registers, find out what else you can discover when Bedfordshire Archives Service help you to lift the lid. Flitwick Library, Coniston Road, Flitwick MK45 1QJ

I have a Plan - Thu 18 Feb Architectural drawings can tell us more about our world than the buildings that survive. Come and explore a world that was and a world that might have been with Bedfordshire Archives

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Road

Auctioneers. The Village Hall, Pavenham, Bedford MK43 7PH

Embroiderers’ Guild Bedford branch - Thu 18 Feb Do you like textiles? Would you like to learn some new techniques or just see great work in a friendly setting? Would you love to buy previously loved fabrics, threads, magazines or books at very reasonable prices?

St Mark’s Church Hall, Calder Rise, Bedford MK41 7UY

The Classics Central February 28th Auction - Sun 28 Feb Classics Central is a classic motor car auction company, holding four auctions at The Bedford Autodrome yearly.

Our passion for classic motor cars is already well known throughout the UK. The Bedford Autodrome, Thurleigh Business Park MK44 2YP

Service. Flitwick Flitwick MK45 1QJ

Library,

Coniston

Free Learning Lunchtime Talk - Coming of the Romans - Mon 29 Feb History buff Paul Heley returns to “describe the conquest over the Celtic tribes; the Boudiccan uprising in AD61 (is there a link between Dunstable and Queen Boudicca (or Boadicea?)); the building of the Watling Street. Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Quiz Night - Fri 19 Feb Organised by Sandy Horticultural Association in conjunction with Sandy Allotment and Leisure Gardening Association 7.30 p.m. £5.00 per person teams of 4 - 6 people. Sandy Conservative Club The Selecter + guests - Sat 20 Feb 7.30pm Legendary 2-Tone artists, The Selecter, released their new studio album Subculture to critical acclaim in June 2015. Bedford Corn Exchange Bedford MK40 1SL

Bucks Listings Exhibition - Mon 1 to Sat 6, Mon 8 to Sat 13, Mon 15 to Sat 20, Mon 22 to Sat 27 , Mon 29 Feb to Wed 2 Mar Curated by Dr David Noy, a Winslow Historian, this is the latest temporary exhibition in the museum entitled Winslow, Medieval to Modern Buckingham Old Gaol, Market Hill, Buckingham MK18 1JX

Nearly New Sale - Baby and Childrens Market - Sat 20 Feb Baby & Children’s Markets are quality nearly new sales where smart parents Buy, Sell and SAVE a fortune on kids items! Trinity Arts and Leisure, Bromham Road, Bedford MK40 2QD

Stowe – ‘Stowedrop’ season - til Sun 28 Feb It won’t be long after Christmas before you see the gardens bursting with snowdrops or as we fondly like to call them ‘Stowedrops’.

Enjoy chilly walks in the New Year to spot the early signs of them peeping through as they develop. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

Blunham Book Sale - Sat 20 Feb Come and browse and buy our huge selection of nearly new books. Enjoy refreshments - teas/coffee cakes & biscuits, home made soup. All profits to Blunham Church Fabric Fund. St Edmund or St James Parish Church, Blunham MK44 3NQ Free Learning Lunchtime Talk - Wildlife Crime - Mon 22 Feb Bob Hook talks about the worrying growth in wildlife crime and how we can help prevent it. Learning Lunchtime talks are approximately 1 hour, with time for questions and answers. The Forest Centre, Bedford MK43 0PS

Can A Centipede Hop Fifty Feet? - Mon 1 Feb Join Ken Daniels as he firkles through the wrinklier parts of his brain to share some of the stuff it has produced over the years.

There’ll be some nonsense, maybe some sense, some thought-producing stuff, and some mind-numbing humour. York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ

Law and Order - Thu 25 Feb Wasn’t the past a happy place where everyone left their doors unlocked? Come and see if this myth holds up as Bedfordshire Archives Service examines the records of the criminals and crimestoppers.

Flitwick Library, Coniston Road, Flitwick MK45 1QJ

Family History Talk: One-Name, One-Place Wed 3 Feb According to speaker John Hanson, many family historians actually create one-name or one-place studies without really realizing it. He’ll be looking at the reasons for this, what such studies entail, and where to find them. Methodist Church Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2HB

An Antiques Evening with Cheffins of Cambridge - Fri 26 Feb Do you enjoy ‘Flog it’ and the ‘Antiques Roadshow’? This could be your chance to find out if you have a treasure in the attic. We invite you to an evening learning about antiques with Cheffins’

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Beauty and the Beast - Thu 4 to Sat 6 Feb Winslow Players’ annual pantomime. This year the love story of Beauty and the Beast.

Winslow Public Hall MK18 3JA

Winter guided walk at College Lake - Sat 13 Feb Join us for a gentle walk around this stunning reserve, taking in seasonal wildlife and discussing the management of the site. College Lake HP23 5QG

Fire 350! - Fri 5 Feb Tickets: £10, concessions £8 Reservations: 01280 812364, 07938 916976, sue@pierssnell.force9.co.uk Seventeenth century London was ravaged by plague and pestilence, brought to a cataclysmic end by the Great Fire of London in September 1666. York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ

Stowe - Half-term: Animal tracking trail Sat 13 to Sun 21 Feb Discover animal tracks hidden in the gardens this February half-term.

Can you tell the different between an otter and a fox' Pick up our guide and become an expert animal tracker! How many will you find' Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

Vale Harvest Local Food Market - Sat 6 Feb Award-winning monthly market featuring a range of award-winning produce from across the Aylesbury Vale. With over 20 stalls each month selling a wide variety of hot and cold food and drink. Banks Park, Haddenham Village Hall, Haddenham HP17 8EE

Craft and Vintage fair - Sat 13 Feb Featuring a lovely mix of craft and vintage stalls; something for everyone and every pocket.

There is so much to see! The Olney Centre, High Street, Olney MK46 4EF Model Railway Exhibition, Milton Keynes 2016 - Sat 13 Feb Always popular with families and children as well as experienced modellers, our annual exhibition is one of the biggest and best-attended model railway shows in the region. Stantonbury Leisure Centre, Stantonbury, Milton Keynes MK14 6BN

Evie Ladin: Queen of the Banjo - Sat 6 Feb A long-awaited return! This absolutely stunning American performer will be at York House as part of her UK tour with duo partner, the versatile and gymnastic Keith Terry. York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ

’I Have a Voice Too!’ Crafts & Afternoon Tea - Mon 15 Feb On the third Monday of the month, ‘I Have a Voice Too!’ hosts a Crafts and Afternoon Tea event. This is raising money for adults who have special needs.

Various crafts are undertaken, materials being provided. Cafe Kingsbury, Kingsbury Square, Aylesbury HP20 2JA

Misbourne Symphony Orchestra Concert Sat 6 Feb The Misbourne Symphony Orchestra, Shivaike Shah (piano), conductor Richard Jacklin. Tchaikovsky: Polonaise and Waltz from Eugene Onegin, Rachmaninoff: Piano concerto no. 2. op.18. Franck: Symphony in D minor. Tickets (adult £12, Concessions £10. The Amersham School, Stanley Hill, Amersham HP7 9HH

Get Active Sports Kids Holiday Camp - Mon 15 to Fri 19 Feb Get Active Sports will be running their exciting, energetic and educational Holiday Camp at Little Missenden CofE School, Amersham during the half term holidays. We promise fun and stimulating sports sessions combined with challenging games. Little Missenden CofE Infant School HP7 0RA

Dance or simply listen & enjoy great live music by Johnny Wheeler! - Sat 6 Feb The lounge bar at Denham Garden Village welcomes back singer/guitarist Johnny Wheeler for the first time in 2016 on Saturday 6th February. He comes highly recommended!

Songs from every era, swing, ballads, rock ’n’ roll and a little bit of country. Denham Garden Village, Denham Green Lane UB9 5LB

Kids Club Holiday Club - Mon 15 to Fri 19 Feb Kids Club - Our all new active, creative holiday scheme for children from 5-13 years The fun never stops come rain or shine at our Kids Club holiday activity club for 5-7 years and 8-13 years. We aim to make every day different. Stantonbury Leisure Centre MK14 6BN

Walter Carter – A World War One Soldier’s Tale - Tue 9 Feb A family history talk with a difference. David Noble tells the story of Walter Carter, a young man from Battersea who joins the Territorial Force in 1912, and goes to war in March 1915 following six months of training. Community Centre, Wakeman Road, Bourne End SL8 5SX

In The Jungle (the mighty jungle) - Tue 16 Feb Fresh from the Bornean rainforest Dr Tim Cockerill provides a versatile talk on the wide

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Wedding Fair in Heatherden Hall @ Pinewood Film Studios - Sun 21 Feb Heatherden Hall is situated right in the heart of Pinewood Studios and is a venue packed full of character with more than a hint of the movies about it. The Wedding Fair has a wide range of local wedding suppliers all happy to chat about your "Big day”. Heatherden Hall, Pinewood Studios, Iver SL0 0NH

range of wildlife found in this exotic jungle. Great Missendon Memorial Centre Link Rd HP16 9AE Stowe - Wild Wednesday: Tracks and trails Wed 17 Feb See what you can track down at Stowe this February on adventure with our Team Leader. You’ll get a guide to animal tracks, discover what animal makes which footprint and learn how to lay your own secret trails. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

Grand Union - 1960’s Cargoes and Families Terry Putnam - Wed 24 Feb With slides he took in the 1960s, Terry gives us an insight into the last hurrah of the boating families on the Grand Union Canal and the cargoes they carried. Little Chalfont Village Hall, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont HP8 4UD

Wild at Heart - Love is in the air - Wed 17 & Thu 18 Feb Love is in the air at College Lake.

Join us and find out about what the animals that live here are getting up to to prepare for spring. Wrap up warm for fun activities inside and out, including trails, crafts, and exploration. Booking essential. College Lake Nature Reserve HP23 5QG

Comedy of Errors - Thu 25 Feb Globe Theatre Onscreen Film Screening. The second of our Globe screenings of the best of British theatre on a large screen. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Wolves and wildcats: surviving the end of the last Ice Age in Somerset - Thu 18 Feb Prof Danielle Shreve, Royal Holloway, University of London 6.30 – 8pm; £7.50 ; free refreshments during short interval.

Buckinghamshire County Museum and Roald Dahl Childrens Gallery, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP

Quiz Night at Buckingham Old Gaol - Fri 26 Feb Our regular quiz masters are busy setting the questions for the next popular Quiz, come and test your knowledge! As usual it is teams of four but these can be made up on the night. Buckingham Old Gaol, Market Hill, Buckingham MK18 1JX

Fame - Thu 18 to Sat 20 Feb Rare Productions Fame-The Musical is indeed gonna live forever. Set during the last years of New York City’s celebrated High School for the Performing Arts on 46th Street, the musical is bittersweet but ultimately inspiring story of a diverse group. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Amersham Concert Club - Sat 27 Feb Chamber Music Concert given by The Piatti Quartet, Nathaniel Anderson-Frank, Michael Trainor ~ violins, David Wigram ~ viola, Jessie-Ann Richardson ~ cello, , Quartet in F major ~ Ravel, Langsamersatz ~ Webern, Quartet in G major Op.106 ~ Dvorak. Dr Challoner’s High School, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont, Amersham HP7 9QB

Children’s Activities - Fri 19 Feb Come and be ’hands on’ with owls when Tony Hewitt visits the museum from Owls To Behold. A fascinating session is forecast when Tony will be giving a short talk and there will be owl crafts too. Buckingham Old Gaol, Market Hill, Buckingham MK18 1JX

Tom Thumb - Sat 27 Feb DNA Puppetry & Visual Theatre Long ago when all the world was wood the most fearsome foe was the one that breathed fire… The very first folk story ever printed in English mixes a legend set in the times of King Arthur with Celtic folklore.

Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

S.S.Shanty! 4 - Sat 20 Feb (In aid of RNLI) The Five Men Not Called Matt return for a fourth voyage on the good ship, S.S. Shanty, for another splendid evening of shanties, hornpipes, and other maritime songs. As always, they will be joined by some feisty guest singers. York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ

Wycombe Swan Town Hall Wedding Fair Sun 28 Feb All the needs of your special day under one roof. St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE

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