Sticks February 2017 by The Sticks

Issue 47 February 2017

In this edition of The Sticks Exclusive interview with magician Jamie Raven Interview with comedian Stephen K Amos Russell Grant’s February Horoscopes Hero Cheese of the Month Advice from Consensus HR BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace – Matcha Tea Wine Column Review - Knife and Cleaver And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks

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 magician Jamie Raven Interview with comedian Stephen K Amos HR Column from Consensus HR Curwens Column Art Column Russell Grant’s Horoscopes for February Janey Lee Grace – Matcha Tea Hero Cheese of the Month Wine Column Big Barn Food Column Review – Knife & Cleaver Listings – Herts, Beds & Bucks

Page 4-6 8-9 10-11 12 13 14-15 16 17 18 19 20-22 23-32

Contributors: Terry Sullivan, Janey Lee Grace, Sharon Struckman, Toby Archer, Russell Grant, Matthew Pinto – Chilcott

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 8pm every Monday exclusively on SG1 Radio . www.sg1radio.co.uk www.sg1radio.com/player.php

Excusive Interview with Magician Jamie Raven

Jamie Raven burst onto an unsuspecting world during the 2015 series of Britain’s Got Talent. His magic amazed audiences and even made Simon Cowell exclaim, “I now finally believe in magic!” on route to finishing, in his own words as “Top Human”. Jamie has been perfecting his craft over the past 12 years working as a magician around the world and his ambition was always to take it to a wider audience and BGT finally gave him that chance. His online videos from Britain’s Got Talent and other subsequent performances have now been seen over 250 million times, making him one of the most viewed magicians in the world today. Amongst other exciting projects in a very busy 18 months, he was asked to film a series of tricks for BBC Sport, at football grounds up and down the country to highlight the “Magic of the FA Cup” which aired at half time of the televised matches in each round. The BBC also invited him to perform as part of “Bruce’s Hall of Fame” in which he was able to pay homage to one of his childhood hero’s – Tommy Cooper. He was launched as the online face for “Talk Talk”, promoting their “Amazing things you can do with £10″ campaign, and asked to perform an incredible illusion in which it was “Raining Money” inside Westfield Stratford, to launch the “Now You See Me 2” Movie. A personal highlight was an invitation to perform on stage alongside Sir Richard Branson at the world famous Fillmore Theatre as part of the celebrations of the inaugural Virgin Atlantic flight to Detroit. The Sticks caught up with Jamie ahead of his UK wide Theatre Tour, “Jamie Raven Live”. The magic tricks you did on BGT were amazing; you even managed to fool Simon Cowell. How did you find doing the show? It was the best thing I have ever done professionally in my life going on that show. Being able to share with people what I love doing.

In the show you managed to get a helicopter in to the studio. It was a lot of cloak and dagger stuff, it was definitely one of the biggest challenges we have pulled off so far. Why did you decide to go on BGT? I had been performing professionally for 11 years before, and if you can go on there as somebody who does what I do, a variety performer, then there is no quicker way of raising your profile, in this country than going on that show. I always shied away from it in the early years, because rightly or wrongly I never thought they gave magic a fair chance, then a couple of years before I did it my friend, James who is a magician, he got through to the semi- finals and then the following year another magician got through to the final. I thought maybe the balance has shifted now. So I thought I would give it a go and did not think I would get as far as I did, I came second. I thought I would go on do my bit, they would enjoy it but we are 2 years later still talking about it. When I did the audition at the Dominion theatre in London and I was standing on the X marked on the stage and Simon Cowell said to me after I had performed â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some people believe in ghosts, I now actually believe in magicâ&#x20AC;? which was amazing. What actually started your interest in magic? I was about 10 or 11 when I got the magic bug; we were on a family holiday and a magician came over to our table and that was me hooked. Then every Christmas I would get a magic book and then when I was old enough I would venture in to town and there were two magic shops one called Davenports, and another called International Magic, and every couple of months I would save up go and buy a trick etc. I went to university when I was 18 and did a 3 year economics degree at Bath, and I did not know what I wanted to do with myself but I knew I did not want to follow the sort of route that my friends did in becoming accountants or working in the city, it just was not for me. When I was at university I was competent but would not say good, then I met a guy who ran an events company and he said there was a demand for people to come round and entertain at parties doing magic. He asked if I was interested, so I met him and a couple of other events planners and just fell into it, I had no plan that was what I wanted to do with my life. It was a chance meeting with a guy who knew somebody who knew somebody. I finished the degree and a few months after that I was performing magic full time, that is all I have ever done, that was 13-14 years ago. Who were your magic heroes that inspired you when you were growing up? When I became seriously interested in magic, I did some research. Paul Daniels I was aware of and I was interested in how he got where he was and we had Tommy Cooper who was around a long time before I was born but my biggest inspiration was David Copperfield, who in my opinion is the best magic performer ever and if people ask me why I always say because he could do it all, where as some people specialise in card tricks, whilst others illusions, and he looked so cool. He was just 5

brilliant. One of my other favourites was Lance Burton, also Penn and Teller and an English guy Paul Zenon. Why do you think Magic is so popular again now? Many years ago we had David Nixon on TV, then sadly he passed away and the BBC were looking for someone to replace him and discovered Paul Daniels, that was the best thing to happen to British magic ever. Paul was on the screens for such a long time and he brought magic back to the public consciousness and as with everything it runs in peaks and troughs. He was there for a long, long time and I guess someone somewhere decided that you did not want to see any magic anymore so it disappeared and as everything goes in cycles we are back now, especially with the help of social media as you can share videos on Facebook, twitter, instagram and allsorts, the likes of Dynamo and David Blaine have made magic cool again. I think the English TV channels have been looking for the English equivalent of David, of course there is Derren Brown who in my opinion is the best British magical entertainer there has ever been. They have always been looking for that trendy, cool, hip style where the guy performs out in the streets and then they found Dynamo and he set the world on fire. Anyone who brings magic further into the public’s consciousness is absolutely fantastic for our profession. What do you think about the guy calling himself “The Masked Magician“ who was on TV, supposedly blowing the lid on magic tricks? My issue with it is this if you come up with a trick then you are within your rights to explain how it works, it is your creation, your invention but what he was explaining was not his own. It is like Robbie William singing a song Michael Jackson wrote and getting all the credit for it, that’s not fair, if it is your property you can do with it what you wish. I think he came unstuck because people watched it as they wanted to see the tricks and people realise that maybe they did not want to know how it is done. When you see a trick and you don’t know how it works, there are all sorts of possibilities and it is a mystery and it ruins it for the public. Anyhow half of what he said and showed was not true anyway. Even if you know how it is done part of the show is the craft of the magician. What is your favourite trick that you perform? There are two, my favourite trick in terms of the one I enjoy performing the most, is the one I always finish the shows with. I have a newspaper and I talk about the things written in the newspaper and whether you can believe everything you read and as I do that I rip up the newspaper and then I throw it in the air and it links back together again and restores itself. It is a trick I have done from a very early age and took me the longest to master, but the one that means the most to me is the card trick with the little stick man because that is the one that changed my life, being able to take my career on to another level where people would come to see my show rather than me go to them. See Jamie on his tour Friday 10 February at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable Sunday 26 February at Broadway Theatre, Letchworth www.jamieraven.co.uk twitter @jamieravenmagic 6

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Stephen K Amos Interview by Brian Donaldson

For such a mild-mannered chap, Stephen K Amos has recently been feeling quite annoyed. Thankfully, this talented comic who has been wooing audiences across three decades now, is not keeping that annoyance to himself; instead he’ll be offloading it onto his crowds for a new national tour entitled World Famous. “For the first time in a long time, I am feeling really annoyed,” he confirms. “So when I’ve been trying out new stuff with audiences, I’ve been warning them, ‘you know what, I’m pretty annoyed at people’. And for some reason they all laugh at that, perhaps because I’m not normally seen as a confrontational type.” The main source of his current ire is social media with its pack mentality and irrational hunting down of individuals for a comment they’ve made, an opinion they’ve expressed or, sometimes, just for having the temerity of being alive. “I’m in despair about the world at the moment, and mainly annoyed at what people are prepared to say and do on social media. I see some of my comedy friends on Twitter getting into conversations with complete strangers and, really, what is the point in that? If you don’t like my stuff, you don’t have to go online to tell me. But people go out of their way to set up a Facebook page to tell everyone, ‘I hate so and so’. There are so many other things to get excited about that affect all of us: like Britain having a new PM that we haven’t voted for, or potentially having Trump as leader of the free world.” This unnecessary taking down of people isn’t just restricted to social media. Stephen also cites the case in Australia of an audience member who made a point about austerity on that nation’s version of Question Time. “This guy just asked a simple question about him not being able to feed his kid and he got a round of applause. Somebody who saw that programme set up a GoFundMe page that raised over $300,000 in 24 hours for his family, and by the Sunday, a national newspaper had done a hatchet job on him. And all he had done was ask a question on a TV programme.” Despite the mental fatigue he’s feeling for the state of the planet, Stephen is still driven by hunger and enthusiasm for the stand-up world he has been a part of since emerging in the late 1990s. And he’s getting particularly excited by the thought of performing for audiences who have very mixed opinions. “The only good thing about hearing that people voted Brexit or that there are people who would vote for Trump is knowing that those people are out there in my audience. Gone are the days when you had like-minded friends who share all your beliefs and now you just can’t preach to the converted. That makes for a great challenge to me as a performer. I’m not one of those comics who say something

just to create debate or whatever; I’ll back up what I say or believe in and I’m open to hearing your point of view without abuse or denigration and with respect.” For World Famous, Stephen will also be reflecting on some of the fairly extraordinary things people have said to his face recently, all of which debunks any suggestion anyone might have that we live in a wholly enlightened era. “I was asked to do a breakfast TV show in Australia and the make-up guy just said, ‘you’re fine as you are’. I said, ‘no one goes on TV fine as they are. Just admit that you don’t have make-up for black skin.’ And on a live show, somebody said to me, ‘oh Steve, didn’t I see you in that Hollywood movie?’ I was a bit puzzled and he pointed at me and said, ‘12 Years a Slave?’ That’s just a couple of examples.” Once his World Famous tour is over, he aims to take another stab at America and head over there for six months to try and get his name around for some work.“I have a hunger right now for America and to represent British stand-up. There’s Eddie Izzard and maybe James Corden with his talk show, but still not many British comics have broken through over there. I noticed that Bill Burr came over to the UK in the summer and sold out these big venues, but why is it not the other way around? There are so many good British guys who would do well over there.” And it’s not just the world’s stand-up stages that he wants to dominate, as he has ambitions to do more acting work, having previously trodden the boards in One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, been heard on radio with What Does The K Stand For? and appeared on screens in Daniel Sloss’ web comedy MUFF. “I would love to do more acting but I’ve been touring every year since 2005 and so I’m never really around long enough which is why I’ll try America for six months for some casting opportunities. If they’re after a suave, black James Bond figure, then give me a call. Idris Elba can’t always be flying the flag on that.” But before he pursues those ambitions stateside, he will be lavishing upon audiences what one critic dubbed his ‘warm insight and spiky charm’. “I don’t mind that description at all. It’s very much a conscious thing as I’m aware of the perception of me being a very happy-go-lucky, carefree sort of guy. But I have a point of view and sometimes I want to make a statement about something. However, I never forget that it’s a comedy show and people have paid to laugh; I don’t want to just stand in front of an audience who will simply agree with everything I say. I want to throw spanners in the works and have a mixture of people in front of me of different ages and from different backgrounds. I want them all to be laughing at the same things, and when you’ve done that, with thought and humour, then you’re onto a winning streak.” It’s a winning streak Stephen K Amos has been on for a very long time, and World Famous looks set to keep him firmly on it. See Stephen K Amos live on his World Famous tour 3 February - Radlett Centre, Radlett 8 February - Tring Court Theatre 9 February - Hertford Theatre, Hertford

The Gender Pay Gap Rules Are Here! The long-waited regulations about gender pay gap reporting have been published. Consensus HR is pleased to let you know what this new regulation involves – and how it affects employers. 'The right to equal pay for equal work' was originally discussed in 1959 as part of the Labour Party's Manifesto. Following a number of treaties, legislation - and strikes - the Equality Act was finally introduced in 2010. We now have the final version of the Equality Act 2010 (Gender Pay Gap Information) Regulations 2017.

What does gender pay gap reporting involve? The legislation requires employers to publish annual information relating to pay. The main points of this new legislation are summarised by Colin Leckey and Hazel Oliver of Lewis Silkin as being: •

The reporting regime applies to all private sector employers with 250 or more employees.

•

Employers must publish the mean and median hourly pay gap between men and women, based on the pay period containing a specific date in April each year (the “snapshot date”). “Pay” for this purpose includes any bonuses paid in that pay period.

•

Employers must also report the annual bonus gap between men and women, again using a specific date in April, together with the proportion of male and female employees who received a bonus that year. “Bonus” is defined widely to include commission and securities.

•

There is an additional obligation to publish the numbers of men and women in each of four quartile pay bands.

Who is involved? Based upon section 83 of the Equality Act 2010, the following employees should be included within gender pay reporting: •

Any people employed under a contract of employment, a contract of apprenticeship or a contract personally to do work. It also applies to Crown employment and to service in the armed forces.

•

Those employees who are not based in Great Britain but are still regarded as being employees of employers within scope could still be covered if there is a strong connection with Great Britain.

•

Agency workers will be taken into account by the employer with whom they have the contract of employment, and this will generally be their agency.

Two groups of people who will be excluded are: •

Self-employed people (those who are not within the definition of employee in the Equality Act) or volunteers should not be included in the overall gender pay gap calculations.

•

Partners, including LLP members, referring to both pay and bonus data

When does gender pay gap reporting start? The first calculation date is April 2017. The data must be published on the employer’s website by April 2018, remaining there for three years.

Comment from Consensus HR: “It’s been a long time since equal pay was introduced in 1959,” says Matthew Pinto-Chilcott, founder of Consensus HR. “As we start 2017, the Government is finally going to make it a legal process that companies of 250 employees and over must report their gender pay of all their team.” He adds: “Consensus HR believes that all areas of the Equality Act should be fair for everyone regardless of their personal attributes such as sex, race, age etc. People should be given the opportunity to work. Should they not be able to perform the duties of the role, time should be taken to ascertain why. Employers should then introduce adequate measures and/or reasonable adjustments as needed to allow individuals to be successful. “Obviously we do not see sex as a reason why anyone is unable to perform a role unless physical demands prohibit it but this is applicable to both sexes.”

Find out more… To find out your gender pay gap responsibilities or discuss best practice when employing people and determining responsibilities and pay, talk to Consensus HR – 01462 621243 – Info@consensushr.com

Happy Valentine’s Day? So you managed to get over the hurdle of National Divorce Day last month, but will it really be “all roses” for everyone this February 14th? Unfortunately, relationship breakdown is a common occurrence and there is no way of completely eliminating any stress or cost from the process. However, it is possible to deal with any issues in an amicable and cost-effective way. What are the options ? If you are not married, then in theory the process of splitting up should be simple. However, problems can arise if you share property or other assets, and if you have children together. If you are married, then whilst having an informal separation is possible, most people tend to opt for a formal divorce, which requires the involvement of the court. To resolve any issues regarding children and finances, there are plenty of alternatives to ending up in a court battle:(1) Mediation You and your ex meet with a specially qualified Family Mediator who helps you find a constructive way in which to talk through the issues, and try and find an agreed solution. There can be as many meetings as needed, but usually you would expect 3 or 4. (2) Collaborative Approach You and your ex each instruct a specialist Collaborative Lawyer and everything is discussed at round table meetings. Instead of lengthy letters between lawyers, minutes of the meetings are agreed and circulated, and if there are any urgent matters, the lawyers would usually try and resolve them quickly by telephone. You can have as many round table meetings as you want, but you would usually expect a minimum of three. The Lawyers will bring in other experts if needed – such as Financial Neutrals or Family Consultants – to assist with financial advice or to provide emotional support respectively. (3) Arbitration You and your ex jointly instruct an experienced and specially trained Family Arbitrator who acts as a private judge - giving a decision on the particular issue you have raised with them. The details of what evidence you each provide and how the decision will be made are agreed in advance. Are these Alternatives Binding on us ? Any agreement you reach within Mediation, the Collaborative Approach, or through Arbitration can be put into formal terms to become a legally binding contract or court order. If your Valentines Day is not a bed of roses, it is important to find the right approach for you. There is lots of useful information at www.resolution.org.uk (the national body of family lawyers and other professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes) and www.hertsfamilylaw.co.uk If you would like more specific information on separation or divorce, including all the different approaches suggested above, please contact: amanda.thurston@curwens.co.uk Curwens have offices in Royston, Hoddesdon and Enfield.

HERTS VISUAL ARTS OPEN STUDIOS FOR 2017 Herts Open Studios, a well-established annual show, takes place during September. Applications are welcomed from professional and amateur visual artists, craft makers and designers living or working in Hertfordshire. Apply online from 1 February. The aim of Herts Open Studios is to make the arts more accessible to the public, and to make the public more aware of the art and craft that is created around them. Each year around 200 artists take part and around 11,000 - 13,000 members of the public visit the studios. The event is organised by an Open Studios Project Manager with the help of a team of Area Coordinator volunteers. Artists open their homes or places of work to visitors at specified times over a three-week period. The event introduces artists to the public, galleries and other enterprises, bringing an awareness of the diversity of talent available throughout the county. Artists can show off their skills, chat to the public and make sales. Many artists take the opportunity to demonstrate their creativity in action, which is often viewed by members of the public as being one of the most valuable aspects of the event. Interaction with visitors can be a catalyst for new ideas and can build confidence, so visitors are encouraged to talk to artists about their work. Participants The participation fee is ÂŁ99 per person, and the Open Studios programme is publicised via a targeted media campaign. Details of each artist (or group of artists) plus a photo of their work are included in 25,000 colour brochures (available in July) which are distributed to libraries, museums, tourist information offices, commercial outlets etc across the county. These artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; details plus photos of their work are then also posted on this website. Each participating artist is given help and support on how to run their "open studio" by a team of volunteers. An Area Coordinator is appointed to facilitate arrangements in each district. Entrants are provided with a guidelines booklet detailing step-by-step what needs to be done, and all artists receive an Artist Pack to help publicise their own venue. Entrants can either exhibit alone in their studio or home, or can group together to share a venue. Please visit our contact page for details on how to get in touch with Herts Visual Arts, or if you are ready to become a Herts Visual Arts member you can join-up online. Visitors Brochures, detailing all the venues and opening hours, are available from 1 July from libraries, tourist information offices, gallery and art venues. For more information go to: www.hvaf.org.uk/Open-Studios/About-Open-Studios

Russell Grantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Monthly Horoscopes February

ARIES March 21st - April 20th

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd

Your charisma will be burning brightly at the start of the month. Take this opportunity to enhance your appearance. Getting a makeover, updating your hairstyle or splashing out on some new outfits would be a good plan. A person from your past will try to reconnect with you; consider carefully whether you want to take up where you left off. On February 11th, a Lunar Eclipse could mark the satisfying end of a group association. The conclusion of this matter will leave you free to devote more time to a close relationship. Two heads will be definitely better than one during this highly romantic month. Getting engaged or married on Valentine's Day is a distinct possibility. If you're already in a committed relationship, take this opportunity to celebrate in style with your amour. On the 26th, a Solar Eclipse could trigger a powerful dream. Your subconscious is trying to send you a message; pay careful attention.

You'll make a fabulous impression at work in the early days of the month. Take this opportunity to make a presentation or sales pitch that is close to your heart. People will be very receptive to your ideas at this time. A family reunion could take place during the first half of February; this will be a good time to reconnect with people who love you unconditionally. A Lunar Eclipse on the 11th may deliver a big windfall to your bank account. This money will help you pay off a bill and achieve the financial freedom you've always wanted. Once you satisfy your debts, get into the habit of putting money aside each month. The Solar Eclipse on the 26th may usher in a period of travel that will be tremendously enlightening. Update your passport, invest in some good luggage and prepare to see the world. LEO July 24th - August 23rd

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st

Travel and adventure will colour your world in the early part of February. Take this opportunity to enjoy a trip you've been dreaming about for years. Good news will come your way during the first half of the month; a disappointing decision could be overturned. On the 11th, a Lunar Eclipse could mark the successful conclusion of a course of study. You could graduate with honours or receive a scholarship for further academic work. Valentine's Day could be very special. You may be celebrating with someone who is much older or younger than you. Alternatively, news of a pregnancy or adoption could be announced at this special time. A Solar Eclipse on the 26th will bring passion and intimacy to your life. Let down your defences with someone who has proven their love. A close relationship will have a trans-formative effect on you. Your partner will help you break a bad habit or embark on a healthier lifestyle.

Take time out of your busy schedule during early February to enjoy the activities you love most. Instead of attending every party that comes along, think about staying in for a few nights every week. This will restore your spirits and put a spring in your step. The Lunar Eclipse on February 11th will bring the end of a professional role. After this milestone, you'll go on to more creative assignments, which will appeal to your artistic nature. On Valentine's Day, you'll have a passionate encounter that deepens your commitment to a lover. Making things official would bring a welcome sense of stability and security to your life. If you've already exchanged vows, you or your partner could get a fabulous career opportunity that improves your lifestyle. The Solar Eclipse on 26th is perfect for attending a social occasion; you'll meet some interesting people at this gathering. A lifelong friendship could take root in February.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st

A passionate relationship will spice up your life in early February. This is a wonderful time to embark on a romance. If you've been looking for work, you could get a chance to join a former employer during the first half of the month. This experience will be enriching, both financially and emotionally. Pay close attention to the days surrounding the 11th, when a Lunar Eclipse will bring an end to a steady job, opening up even better opportunities for you. Valentine's Day will bring some stability to your domestic life. Moving in with your partner or putting a down payment on a home are distinct possibilities. On the 26th, a Solar Eclipse will start a new chapter in your personal life. Getting engaged or married will pave the way for a happy, fruitful future. If you're already in a committed partnership, your other half will get a fantastic promotion that dramatically improves your standard of living.

Why not host a gathering or get together at the beginning of February. This will be a great time to bring friends, family and neighbours together under one roof. A romantic interest from your past will reconnect with you during the first half of the month; this could be your chance to redeem a damaged relationship. On the 11th, a Lunar Eclipse will bring the successful conclusion to a legal matter. At long last, you'll be able to return to a creative project you had to put on hold. Valentine's Day will bring some exciting news about an engagement or marriage; prepare for a big celebration. A Solar Eclipse on the 26th will attract a remarkable professional opportunity. Your chance to embark on an intellectually stimulating career. Being paid handsomely to bring beauty to the world will be the answer to a prayer. There will be a compassionate element to this work that is highly rewarding.

You'll be enthusiastically welcomed back into the fold. On the 11th, a Lunar Eclipse will bring an end to a moneymaking venture, leaving you free to accept other potential packed opportunities. Your professional star will be on the rise. As the month winds down, you'll get some surprising news about a creative venture. You may be asked to edit a newsletter, write an article or teach a class. This assignment will give you a great deal of intellectual stimulation and emotional fulfilment. Your dry sense of humour will be a big hit with your audience. It's possible you'll also use social media as a way to spread your message.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd Love, romance and friendship will be your top priority in the opening days of February. This would be a wonderful time to get engaged or married. If you're already in a committed partnership, you may exchange roles with your amour. Allowing your other half to take the lead will give you more time for the creative activities you enjoy. A Lunar Eclipse on the 11th will allow you to put the finishing touches to a creative project. Submitting this work for review could lead to fame and acclaim. Valentine's Day could be especially stimulating. If you're single, someone will ask you on a date. This will be the beginning of a passionate romance. Toward the end of February, a Solar Eclipse may attract a thrilling job offer. Getting paid to express your imagination will make you glow with happiness. People may ask if you've been to a spa. This is also a good time to launch a health enhancing programme.

AQUARIUS Jan 21st - Feb 19th Acquiring a new skill will be lots of fun at the beginning of February. You'll enjoy being with people with upbeat energy and they'll admire your inventive approach to learning. It's possible you'll get a chance to return to a place you've always loved during the first half of the month. Be ready to travel on a moment's notice. A Lunar Eclipse on the 11th will prompt you to look at things from a different point of view. This fresh beginning will help you discover hidden talents. Valentine's Day promises to be a special time, prompting you and your partner to pursue a cherished dream. If you're single, you may decide to steer a friendship into romantic waters. The Solar Eclipse on the 26th marks a significant moneymaking opportunity. Starting your own business or moving to a new company will greatly increase your standard of living. Splash out on a few of life's little luxuries; you've earned them.

SCORPIO Oct 24th - Nov 22nd Devote yourself to work that you truly enjoy at the beginning of February. A labour of love will fill you with new vigour and enthusiasm. You may be so busy that you'll adopt a lower profile during the first half of the month. On the 11th, a Lunar Eclipse will find you wrapping up a real estate deal or family matter. Finishing this business will give you more time to enjoy solitary pursuits. It will almost be a relief to put some distance between you and your nearest and dearest. You could get a fabulous gift on Valentine's Day. A lavish token of your partner's love and affection will be a delightful surprise. On the 26th, a Solar Eclipse will usher in a highly romantic phase. This is a wonderful time to go on a fairy tale vacation. You and your lover will have a wonderful time kissing, cuddling and gazing into each other's eyes.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th More money for luxuries will become available in the opening days of the month. In addition to the cash you earn, you'll get an unexpected windfall in the form of an inheritance, legal settlement or royalty payment. Use the cash to put a down payment on a home or car. A Lunar Eclipse on the 11th will bring an end to a period of seclusion. You'll be able to enter the dating scene or reconnect with an attentive romantic partner at this time. Valentine's Day could be especially sweet, highlighting your professional achievements. All the work you have done in secret will be acknowledged and celebrated. Give yourself a pat on the back and a great big treat. A Solar Eclipse on the 26th ushers in an exciting new beginning for you. Embarking on a different lifestyle, adopting a new look and assuming a fresh role are all possibilities. Dream big during this fateful period, when wishes can come true.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23rd - Dec 21st If you're looking for love, you will find it in the early part of the month. Don't be surprised if you meet someone special at a sporting event or some other type of outdoor competition. It's even possible an old friendship could take a romantic turn. A Lunar Eclipse on the 11th will bring the successful conclusion to a course of study. Your newly acquired expert status will open doors for you. Valentine's Day could prompt you to make a serious commitment. If you already have a partner, a special outing will feel like you're falling in love with each other all over again. On the 26th, a Solar Eclipse will give you a chance to find your dream home. You'll be able to negotiate a remarkable deal for a beautiful piece of property. Use your powers of persuasion to work wonders with a lending institution. A generous relative could be about to offer you the money for a down payment.

www.russellgrant.com Call Russell Grant's Psychics & Mediums now on 0906 539 1526 (ÂŁ1.50p per min + phone access charge, 18+) or pay by Credit/Debit card on 0207 111 6162 Calls to 0906 cost ÂŁ1.50p per minute plus your phone providers access charge;18+ only. All calls are recorded for your protection & safety. This Entertainment service is regulated by PhonePayPlus and is provided by Russell Grant Astrology Ltd. Customer Services 0808 206 4514

CAPRICORN Dec 22nd - Jan 20th Home is where the heart is in early February. Take this opportunity to attend a family reunion or to entertain relatives in your own home. A job offer from a former employer may arrive during the first half of the month.

Cheers to the New Year If the good intentions you had at the start of the year to exercise and eat only lettuce leaves have all but dissipated I may just have the answer Forget Dieting - Drink Matcha! We’ve long known about the benefits of drinking green tea and specifically matcha tea which is high in antioxidants but now new research from the University of Chichester reveals that a certain blend of organic match from OMGteas can boost fat burning during exercise in healthy females (with no adverse physiological effects) Matcha is popular for a reason, it’s prized for being rich in polyphenol compounds called catechins, a type of antioxidant linked to fighting cancer, viruses and heart disease, and matcha is a more potent source of catechins than standard green tea. Clinical tests suggest that drinking matcha can speed up physical recovery after workouts, promote cell strength and boost immunity, and many matcha fans say it makes them feel energised and alert with none of the jitters that can come with your daily coffee. Sometimes we all need a little help to keep energised and if that help tastes fantastic and comes with extra wellness benefits then what’s not to love! Bring on the matcha! As with many things, not all matcha is created equally. Matcha is generally graded by Premium, Super Premium and Ceremonial Grades but these gradings can be very confusing. Some products labelled as ceremonial grade (i.e. only the best matcha reserved for Japanese tea ceremonies) are barely culinary grade so it’s important to choose an ethical company that sources its matcha to the highest standard. In 2010 OMGTea’s Founder Katherine Swift’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and she decided that she wanted to do something positive to help and became involved in supporting the ground-breaking research of one of the World’s leading genetic & cell biologists. This research highlighted the benefits and healing properties of green tea. Katherine wanted her mum to drink the best quality green tea with the highest level of antioxidants, and organic matcha green tea - OMGtea was born. Here’s to that cup of matcha tea www.omgteas.co.uk

Hero Cheese of the Month: Strathdon Blue Strathdon Blue is a rich, creamy blue cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk by the Stones family of Highland Fine Cheese Company Limited at Blarliath Farm, in Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland. It is made with milk from one herd of Ayrshires and the rest are Holstein-Friesians (70% Friesian and 30% Ayrshire milk). Over the years, due to the change in rennet and ways of salting, the cheese has developed its texture from crumbly to one that is rich, full and creamy. The cheese is evocative of a milder version of Stilton, with a spicy taste but many blue veins. Since the milk is rich in butterfat and protein, it gives the cheese a rich, creamy texture and a luscious, mellow yet aromatic taste/aroma. Strathdon Blue is created using vegetarian rennet, meaning the cheese is suitable for vegetarians. This celebrated cheese has won many international awards including Super gold at the 2014 World Cheese Awards. It has been judged as one of the world's 62 best cheeses. Try it on wheat finger with blood orange and port compote with a glass of Moscatel de Setubal, a great alternative to pudding. FACTS ABOUT THIS AMAZING CHEESE Made from pasteurized cow's milk Country of origin: Scotland Region: Tain Family: Blue Type: semi-soft Texture: creamy Flavour: creamy, spicy Aroma: aromatic, rich Vegetarian: yes Producers: Highland Fine Cheeses Limited

For more information, contact www.thecheeseplate.co.uk or email directly to toby@thecheeseplate.co.uk

Wine of the Month Finca la Florencia Malbec, 2015 Mendoza, Argentina. Malbec is now synonymous as being the wine of Argentina. As Argentina is deemed as the new world when it comes to wine, Malbecâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s indigenous home is in fact south western France, and is famous in the area around Cahors. Malbec is also one of the six permitted grape varieties to be used in Bordeaux wines along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet France, Merlot, Carmenere and Petit Verdot. Where the Malbecs from France tend to be well structured and often possess more of a leathery character, the Malbec wines from Argentina can often be far more fruit forward and chocolaty. The finest Argentine Malbecs are to be found in the stunning region of Mendoza which is at the foot of the Andes Mountains. This outstanding quality Malbec is from the Cassone family who first arrived in Argentina from Piedmont in the 19th century. Entrepreneur Roberto Cassone started making wine in the 1950s in very small quantities and passed down his knowledge and enthusiasm for wine to his son and current owner, Eduardo Cassone. In 1998 Eduardo, together with his wife and sons, built a small winery in Mendoza with which they could fully exploit the old family vineyards. The majority of the vineyards are 90 years old and are located in the prime Drummond area of LujĂĄn de Cuyo in Southwest Mendoza, 950 metres above sea level. The wines are fermented in their high-tech winery before ageing in French oak barrels. These are wonderful wines that marry modern freshness of fruit with structure and complexity. The Finca la Florencia Malbec is a stunning example of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good about Argentine Malbec. Full of dark plum and blackberry, with a touch of tobacco and rich dark chocolate with soft structured tannins, which make this an ideal partner for grilled meats. To win a bottle of Finca la Florencia Malbec, please send your name and contact details to thesticks9@gmail.com before noon on Monday 27th February Wine2Trade is based in Hertford and assists companies and individuals in choosing and creating the perfect wine list. They supply amazing boutique wines from independent producers from around the world, many of which are organic.

For more information you can find them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or go to: www.wine2trade.com

Soup and Stews The mighty soup and they hearty stew. Winter’s two perfect warmers that come in all colours and flavours and perfect for the post Christmas budget and diet. What a great food, cold, hot, sweet or sour, a starter or main course, soup has it all. Soup can use up leftovers, or provide a great way to detox. Soup can be a gastronomic dish or a pauper’s feast and one of the easiest meals to make. In these times of austerity and obesity everyone should know how to make soup and I am amazed that someone has not set up soup making demonstrations at food banks to help those less fortunate cook nutritious meals on a very low budget. Likewise all school children should know how to make at least 2 varieties of soup. At last the amount of space supermarkets devote to tinned soup has reduced as tinned soup is going out of fashion. Hoorah when we are running short of metal and oil, and when the ingredients are so high in sugar and salt. Yes it nice to have nursery food like Heinz tomato in the larder but crazy when the same product could be made at home for a fraction of the price and have a tiny amount of sugar and salt compared to the tinned version. So please have a go at making soup. Find out what is cheap and in season at your local farm shop, chop, in to a saucepan, add some water or stock, and heat up, leave chunky, mash or blend and, heh presto, soup! Another of winter’s mighty meals is of course a hearty stew. Big chunks of meat and veg all cooked together to fill you up and keep you warm. The best thing about stews is being able to cook for hours leaving you to put your feet up with the rest of the family and relax until dinner time. They are not just great winter warmers though, a good stew is the perfect way to use up cheaper cuts of meat, left overs and slightly turning vegetables which in turn helps you save your precious coins, especially after Christmas. You can feed many mouths on a tasty stew and they are full of much needed vitamins to fight off nasty winter bugs.

www.bigbarn.co.uk

Review – Knife and Cleaver, Houghton Conquest

The pub is the heart of the village of Houghton Conquest just south of Bedford. This exciting pub/restaurant has recently been transformed and the refurbishment reflects the best in British design blending the traditional with the contemporary to offer a relaxed, home from home environment, under the ownership of Epic pubs. The Sticks paid a visit to see how The Knife and Cleaver is fairing against other eateries in the area.

From the vast menu which includes daily specials, I chose for my starter the forest mushrooms on toast, crispy hen’s egg, and parmesan cheese – this was an interesting combination of textures and flavours that really worked – a great starter dish.

My colleague had Pan Haggerty and salad leaves with mustard dressing. This hearty dish from the North East of England consists of layers of meltingly tender potatoes, tasty onion slices and molten cheese, this was a treat to behold.

For mains I had slow-cooked pork belly and tenderloin, fondant potato, curly kale, apple and ginger â&#x20AC;&#x201C; two tender chunks of meat with delicious fondant potato, with the crunch of the kale along with the hint of ginger, makes this a veritable feast.

The corn-fed chicken supreme with Woburn pancetta mash, baby vegetables, tarragon sauce was chosen by my colleague. The plump succulent breast of chicken was complemented with the delicious tarragon sauce along with the crunchy baby carrots and the taste of the salty pancetta in the creamy mash, a beautifully dish

For dessert we both enjoyed the sticky toffee pudding, clotted cream and praline. Sticky toffee pudding is one of my favourite desserts and this was one of the best!

We also enjoyed Pistachio and strawberry bakewell tart with pistachio ice cream – from the beautiful taste you could tell this was made from fresh pistachio nuts and strawberries. An interesting twist on a classic British dish.

To complement our meal we enjoyed 2015 Isabella de Silva, a delicious fruity sauvignon blanc from Chile. At The Knife and Cleaver, you can expect food which showcases the best of British produce and blends the contemporary and classic. With dishes changing regularly so you will always find something fresh and exciting to tempt your taste buds - all created by award winning head chef Simone Scola. Often a venue has either great food or good service and ambiance but The Knife and Cleaver delivers on all three counts, a great place to visit!! The Knife & Cleaver The Grove Houghton Conquest Bedford MK45 3LA Tel: 01234 930789 Email: theknifeandcleaver@epicpubs.com www.theknifeandcleaver.com Twitter: @KnifeandCleaver Opening hours:

Monday – Friday: 7am – 11.30pm

Saturday and Sunday: 8am – 11.30pm Sunday lunch: 12 noon to 9pm The Knife and Cleaver also offers 9 contemporary bedrooms - two twin, four double and three superior double with king size beds and en suite bathrooms

Herts Listings

jewellery and accessories. Come for a mooch. Free Entry! 10.30-4pm. The Seed Warehouse The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PX

North Herts Association of the National Trust -The Four Seasons of Anglesey Abbey, a talk by Richard Todd – Weds 1 Feb 7.30 pm at Christchurch, Bedford Road, Hitchin, SG5 1HF. Non- members welcome, £2 on the door. (Membership of National Trust not necessary)

Concert by Hertfordshire Chorus: Elgar, The Kingdom, St Albans Cathedral - Sat 4 Feb Hertfordshire Chorus return to St Albans Cathedral with the London Orchestra da Camera and soloists Eleanor Dennis, Diana Moore, Ben Johnson, and James Platt to present Elgar’s Choral masterpiece, The Kingdom. St Albans Cathedral, Holywell Hill, St Albans AL1 1BY

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom - Wed 1 and Thu 2 Feb From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA award-winning television animation live on stage! Holly is a young Fairy Princess, who is still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go quite according to plan. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Stay and Play Saturdays at Hertford Museum - Sat 4 Feb (10.30am- 4.30pm) On the first Saturday of each month, The Andrews Room at Hertford Museum will be open for families to enjoy a free play session. 18 Bull Plain Hertford SG14 1DT

Carousel - Wed 1 to Sat 4 Feb Roll up! Roll up!... for all the fun on the Carousel! Billy Bigelow and Julie Jordan meet and their lives will never be the same again. Watch the story unfold with the wonderful songs, “If I loved you”, “June is busting out all over” Watford Palace Theatre WD17 1JZ

The General - Buster Keaton’s Classic Film large screen showing with Live Music - Sat 4 Feb One of the most revered comedies of the silent era, this film finds hapless Southern railroad engineer Johnny Gray (Buster Keaton) facing off against Union soldiers during the American Civil War. St Mary’s Church, Hitchin SG5 1HP

Dad’s Army - Thu 2 to Sat 4 Feb Who do you think you are kidding Mrs. Hitler? We all know Dad’s Army, don’t we? Well think again – Water Lane Theatre Company are taking a rather unique look at the Croft and Perry classic – and this time the ladies are in charge! Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

The Knebworth House and Barns Wedding Fair - Sun 5 Feb The Premier Wedding Fair at Knebworth House and Barns promises to be a unique wedding fair unlike any other held at Knebworth offering the rare opportunity to view the inside of Knebworth House, whilst listening to some wonderful live musicians. Knebworth House SG1 2AX

National Trust Watford and District Association - Thu 2 Feb You’ve never had it so good – London in the 50s and 60s. Speaker: Colin Oakes. Colin Oakes returns to look at when London got back on its feet after the war years. Stanborough Centre, 609 St Albans Road, Garston, Watford WD25 9JL

Princess Ballerina Ball -Sun 5 Feb We are thrilled to announce that our Princess Ballerina Ball will be held from 10am to 11.30am. Hitchin Town Hall, Brand Street, Hitchin SG5 1JE Hidden Hertford Walks - Parliament Square led by Jean Riddell - Sun 5 Feb Why not take a leisurely stroll to work up an appetite on a Sunday morning? All walks begin at 11am. Booking is essential. Due to lack of donations on our previous walks, there is now a small charge to take part.18 Bull Plain Hertford SG14 1DT

Stephen K Amos ’World Famous’- Fri 3 Feb Globe-trotting laughter master Stephen K Amos returns with his new tour show. In the last twelve months, Stephen has performed his unique brand of feel-good comedy all over England, Scotland, Wales, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Holland & Germany. Radlett Centre, Radlett WD7 8HL

Octagon Music Society: Anna Huntley (mezzo soprano) James Baillieu (piano) Sun 5 Feb Anna Huntley (mezzo soprano) James Baillieu (piano) Songs by Rossini, Schumann, Kurt Weill, Flanders and Swann, and Noel Coward. The Clarendon Muse,

A Vintage Affair Hertford - Sat 4 Feb Back in 2017 to our cool little vintage venue in The Mill Bridge Rooms. Our traders will be selling their amazing vintage clothing, homeware,

Watford Grammar School for Boys, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD18 7JA

Stephen K Amos ’World Famous’ - Thu 9 FebGlobe-trotting laughter master Stephen K Amos returns with his new tour show. In the last twelve months Stephen has performed his unique brand of feel-good comedy all over England, Scotland, Wales, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Holland and Germany. Hertford Theatre, Hertford SG14 1PS

Showcase Event at Elstree Studios - Sun 5 Feb Here at Dash of Sparkle we are really excited about our upcoming very special event! If you’re planning a wedding, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, anniversary, charity or corporate event and are looking for: A unique venue that offers the perfect setting. Elstree Studios WD6 1JG

The Temperance Seven - Fri 10 Feb Once again, Captain Buckley and his group of wizened alco-minstrels emerge from their 1920’s time capsule to unleash general japeage and mayhem on the good burghers of Bishops Stortford. This one and only performance, prior to their global tour. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Displays beginning with the letters I or J St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society - Wed 8 Feb This month’s meeting features a variety of displays with commentaries on topics or countries beginning with I or J, given by some of our members. An opportunity to see what others collect. School Room, St Mary’s Church, Childwickbury AL3 6JJ

Burns Night Dinner Dance - Fri 10 Feb Tickets £32 each. This includes a dram on arrival & wine on the table. Entertainment provided by The Harpenden Pipe Band & Local Duo Emma & Lenny 7pm for 7.30pm till Midnight. WGC RNA Club AL7 1HA

Write Here! Write Now! - Wed 8 and Thu 9 Feb For the 2nd year running, Contexture Theatre gives a voice to the local talent of Herts and Essex. Come and support the next playwriting competition and help choose the winner of the ‘Write Here! Write Now!’ Playwriting Festival. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

February Frolics - Sat 11 to Sun 19 Feb Come and visit Willows Activity Farm at February half-term for February Frolics. There will live lambing, newborn lamb bottle feeding demonstrations and a full day’s programme of fleecy fun for a baa-rilliant day out. Coursers Rd, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF

“Inspired by Birds” – Peter Holden MBE Wed 8 Feb Illustrated talk organised by Watford Local RSPB Group. Illustrations and music from artists and composers who have drawn their inspiration from nature. From Roman mosaics to Medieval wood carvings, and the music of composers such as Handel. Stanborough Centre, 609, St Albans Rd, Watford WD25 9JL

Cue Tease Burlesque - Sat 11 Feb Cue Tease Burlesque return to Bishop’s Stortford with nothing short of an exquisite Valentine’s treat. Starring burlesque powerhouses Bettsie Bon Bon and Violet Blaze, the show also features ballet by Briar Rogue. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Stephen K Amos ’World Famous’ - Wed 8 Feb Globe-trotting laughter master Stephen K Amos returns with his new tour show. In the last twelve months, Stephen has performed his unique brand of feel-good comedy all over England, Scotland, Wales, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Holland and Germany. Court Theatre, Tring HP23 5QY

Chantel McGregor - Sat 11 Feb Public Halls, Harpenden AL5 1PD The Elvis Years - Sun 12 Feb Celebrating 10 years on the road this year, The Elvis Years is an outstanding musical production which brings to the stage the incredible and compelling story of the ‘king of rock and roll’ - Elvis Presley. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

BCS Herts: Cyber Security – time to start again? - Thu 9 Feb Professor Andy Jones MBE, Director of the Cyber Security Centre, University of Hertfordshire This presentation will look at a number of the elements that come together to make up the cyber security environment. Lindop Building, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield AL10 9AB

The Little Hadham Antiques Fair - Sun 12 Feb An established fair of quality antiques. Little Hadham Village Hall SG11 2BP

a Day has established itself as one of the most popular events for young children in the Rhodes calendar. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Half Term Trail and Craft - Mon 13 to Fri 17 Feb Head into the Visitor Centre and complete your craft activity before following our trail around the woodland. No need to book, just drop in. All children must be supervised by an adult. Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT

Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine - Wed 15 Feb A brand new show featuring the voices of CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher and Nicole Davis as Pongo the Pig and Molly-Moo the Cow - from the team who brought you Marty MacDonald’s Farm! The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine - Mon 13 Feb A brand new show featuring the voices of CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher and Nicole Davis as Pongo the Pig and Molly-Moo the Cow. Everyone at Marty MacDonald’s Farm is delighted with the special delivery that’s arrived – the Toy Machine. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Burglar Bill - Wed 15 Feb Inspired by Janet and Allan Ahlberg’s beautiful picture book. The fun and well defined characters are brought to life on stage with an exciting set design, puppets, and original music and songs. The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School AL4 9NX

Children’s activities for Spring Half Term at Welwyn Roman Baths - Mon 13 Feb Roman Victory Laurel Wreaths Celebrate Roman style and award yourself with a victor’s laurel wreath. Create your own to take home. Welwyn Roman Baths, Welwyn Bypass, AL6 9FG

The BFG (PG) - Thu 16 Feb A girl named Sophie encounters the Big Friendly Giant who, despite his intimidating appearance, turns out to be a kind-hearted soul who is considered an outcast by the other giants because, unlike them, he refuses to eat children. The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School AL4 9NX

Children’s activities for Spring Half Term at Mill Green Museum -Tue 14 to Thu 16 Feb Tue 14 February - Dragon Puppet; make a moving Dragon puppet to take home. Wed 15 February - 3D Hand Print Dragon Picture; create a stunning picture using cut outs of your very own hand print. Thurs 16 February Clay Dragons; make a clay model. Mill Green Mill & Museum Bush Hall Lane Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD

Ashley Blaker: Meshuga Frum - Thu 16 & Sun 19 Feb Ashley Blaker, the UK’s only Orthodox Jewish comedian, returns with a brand new show for 2017. Ashley’s last show Ungefiltered was a sell-out hit seen by 5,500 people and now he is back with something completely different. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

FILM: Bridget Jones’ Baby (Cert 15) - Tue 14 Feb This latest instalment from this beloved comedy series finds Bridget unexpectedly expecting. After breaking up with Mark Darcy, Bridget Jones’s “happily ever after” hasn’t quite gone according to plan. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Francesca Leonardi and Nigel Clayton piano duo concert - Fri 17 Feb Programme includes:- Four Hands Piano: works by Mozart, Schubert, Faure, Gershwin and Ravel Admission price includes programme Free parking on site Licensed bar Pre-concert dining available for £30 per person – includes ticket, 2 course meal. Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

Hertford Toy and Train Collectors’ Evening Toyfair - Wed 15 Feb The evening Hertfordshire Bi-Monthly event comes to the county town, welcoming old and new faces to buy, sell, swap or obtain valuations on your old traditional toys including Cars, Buses and Trains, some lorries and farm related items. Richard Hale School, Hale Road, Hertford SG13 8EN

The Great and Glorious Granny’s Game! Fri 17 Feb Exploring while stuck at Gran’s, two children discover a most mysterious game – they’ll get more than they bargained for when they start to roll the dice! The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Play in a Day - Wed 15 Feb The brainchild of Artistic Director Phil Dale, initially to fill a last minute gap in a half-term holiday, Play in

Motown’s Greatest Hits - How Sweet It Is Fri 17 Feb This stunning show combine’s first

class music together with the slickest choreography, to deliver truly outstanding performances for the best Motown experience you will ever have! This show will have you ‘Dancing on the Ceiling’. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Ladies Who Lunch by Tudor Gates - Wed 22 to Sat 25 Feb Amelia, Joane and Rachel are wives of three of the world’s richest men and members of a charity called "Save Our starving". Together they embark upon a scheme to raise money for children in Africa by exploiting information obtained secretly. The Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre, Local Board Road, Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 2JP

FILM: Frozen ’Interactive Screening’ (Cert PG) - Sat 18 Feb Disney’s Frozen is the coolest comedy-adventure ever to hit the big screen. When a prophecy traps a kingdom in eternal winter, Anna, a fearless optimist, teams up with extreme mountain man Kristoff and his sidekick reindeer Sven on an epic journey. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

FILM: The Girl on the Train (Cert 15) - Thu 23 Feb The Girl on the Train is the story of Rachel Watson’s life post-divorce. Every day, she takes the train in to work in London, and every day the train passes by her old house. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Debra Stephenson - A Night of 100 Voices Sat 18 Feb From Dead Ringers, Newzoids and the Impressions Show, TV’s Debra Stephenson invites you to join her for a night of live music and comedy entertainment in her show Night of 100 voices. Sit back and prepare to be thoroughly entertained. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Radlett Art Society Lecture - Thu 23 Feb The Radlett Art Society presents a lecture on Edouard Manet and His Milieu. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Lee Nelson - Serious Joker - Fri 24 Feb After getting into trouble for sneaking into places he shouldn’t be, Lee Nelson is back where he most definitely should be: live on stage with his brand-new, laugh-out-loud, best ever stand-up show. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

The Hatfield House Wedding Fair - Sun 19 Feb A simply wonderful wedding fair featuring 60 informative exhibitors and two superb fashion shows held in the historic Old Palace at 12.30pm and 2.30pm featuring the latest bridal gowns together with live entertainment. Hatfield Park AL9 5NQ

Frankenstein - Fri 24 Feb A brand new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Gothic horror masterpiece fusing ensemble storytelling, live music, stunning theatricality and puppetry from the designers of Warhorse. The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX

Alice in Wonderland - Sun 19 Feb Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than-life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Rory Bremner - Partly Political - Fri 24 Feb Britain’s best-known satirical impressionist is back! With Trump, Boris and Brexit fresh in the memory, Rory’s on a mission to make sense (and nonsense) of it all. (Good luck with that.) He will be joined by special surprise guests. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

MapDance Spring Tour 2017 - Tue 21 Feb This year the company has commissioned new works by Shobana Jeyasingh, Lea Anderson, Cai Tomos and Hagit Yakira. The mixed repertory offers a refreshing mixture of dance theatre, intricate lyrical choreography, fast-paced athleticism and wry humour. The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX

Quiz Night - Sat 25 Feb Please bring your own nibbles and drink for the evening. Teams up to 8. If you are coming alone let us know and we will put you in a team. Prize for the winning and losing team will be given out. A raffle will be held on the night. 1st St Albans Scout Group, Wadley Hut, 56 Watford Road, St Albans AL1 2AF

Live Midweek Music- Bill Cornell & The Golden Era Jazz Band - Wed 22 Feb Come along to see The Golden Era Jazz Band where you will hear music from New Orleans including marches, stomps and blues, Chicago Dixie and New York swing. Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

their own work. Special in-fair exhibition. A great day out for enthusiasts and collectors of glass of all genres. Knebworth House, Stevenage SG1 2AX

The Fatback Band - Sat 25 Feb The Alban Arena, St Albans AL1 3LD Patrick Monahan - That 80’s Show (One Man Stand-Up Comedy UK Tour) - Sat 25 Feb Doors open 7pm, show starts 8pm. Finish by 10:30pm, with one interval. Fully licensed bar open throughout the show. Collingwood Suite, Gosling Sports Park, Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6XE

Afternoon "Nice and Easy" Scottish Country Dance - Sun 26 Feb Do you enjoy dancing? If so, why not come to our "Nice and Easy" Scottish Country Dance. Families most welcome. No previous experience necessary. 2pm to 5pm. Adults £2, accompanied school age children under 18 years free. Riverside Hall, Ware SG12 0DE

Isabel Hospice Vintage Hollywood Ball - Sat 25 Feb We will be rolling out the red carpet so dress to impress, indulge in some fine dining and dance the night away to the authentic 50’s sound of the Flip Top Floozies ending with a disco. Tickets are £75 per person or £700 for a table of 10. Tewin Bury Farm, Hertford Road, Welwyn AL6 0JB

Beds Listings Eagle Gallery - till Sat 4 Feb Art exhibition by local artists, including paintings, prints, ceramics textiles, jewellery and more. 17 George Street, Bedford HP2 5HJ

Hertford Choral Society Haydn Workshop Sat 25 Feb Join Hertford Choral Society for our annual pre-Concert Workshop and delve deeper into a programme of music by Haydn: Insanae et vanae curae, Te Deum and the ’Nelson’ Mass. Presdales School, Hoe Lane, Ware SG12 9NX

Cirque Enchantment - Thu 2 Feb This concert style cirque production features stunning choreography, breath-taking vocals and mesmerising circus performers. With an eclectic musical soundtrack including pop, rock and classical Cirque Enchantment is a stunning show. The Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable LU5 4GP

Dire Streets - The UK’s Leading tribute to the music of Dire Straits - Sat 25 Feb Dire Streets perfectly capture the distinctive, authentic sound of one of the biggest guitar bands of all time. Fronted by finger picking guitar ace John Brunsdon and his band of accomplished musicians, they play with an attention to detail. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Michael Buble Tribute - Fri 3 Feb Kai McKenzie returns, performing all of the hits and more. £12 per person – booking essential Doors 7.30pm, Show 8pm – 10pm approx. Licensed bar, free parking. Forest Centre Bedford MK43 0PS Roy Wood Rock & Roll Band - Fri 3 Feb Grove Theatre, Dunstable LU5 4GP

The Letchworth Hall Hotel Wedding Fair Sun 26 Feb Visit this period wedding venue in North Hertfordshire. Enjoy two fashion shows featuring amazing bridal gowns in the period old hall at 12:30pm and 2:30pm. See over 30 local companies including John Lewis, Welwyn. Doors are open 11am-4pm, free entry. Letchworth Lane SG6 3NP

Gifts For All Occasions Craft Fair - Love is in the Air - Sun 5 Feb Quality Stalls, raffle, refreshments and special appearance from Captain America, Minion! All in aid of St. Trizah School in Nakuru, Kenya. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade SG18 8JH

The Victory Sisters - A Wartime Songbook Sun 26 Feb Join The Victory Sisters as they present A Wartime Songbook, a melodic journey through the tribulations & jubilations of the Second World War. Liz, Karen and Marcia invite you to pack up your troubles and come along for the ride. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Philharmonia Orchestra: Symphony of Strings -Tue 7 Feb Zsolt-Tihamér Visontay leader Katy Woolley horn Mendelssohn String Symphony No 12 in G minorbiography Mozart Horn Concerto No. 4, K495 Mozart Divertimento in B-Flat, K.137 Tchaikovsky Serenade for Strings in C major (Op. 48) Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SL

The Glass Fair @ Knebworth - Sun 26 Feb Leading specialist fair with around 70 exhibitors selling fine antique and collectable glass alongside contemporary artists showing

Quiz Night - Fri 10 Feb Quiz night at Sandy Conservative Club, main hall. Organised by Sandy Horticultural Association in conjunction with Sandy Allotment and Leisure Gardening Association. 7.30. p.m. start. Teams of up to six people £5.00 per person. Bedford Road, Sandy

Sessions last 45mins approx. Forest Centre Bedford MK43 0PS Forest Folk and Roots present Stables plus support - Fri 17 Feb From singer/songwriter Matthew Lowe (Keston Cobblers’ Club) and Daniel Rymer Trenholme (The Lost Cavalry) comes their new project Stables. The duo put an emphasis on energy when playing live, with multiple instruments. The College Arms College Road, Cranfield MK43 0SR

Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate - Planetarium - Sat 11 to Mon 13 Feb Take an adventure across the night sky this half term at the Chilterns Gateway Centre. Following the huge demand for our stargazing nights, we will be welcoming Dark Sky Wales and their incredible indoor planetarium. Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade LU6 2GY

Sanchez & Lukie D with special guests Adele Harley and Donna Marie - Sat 18 Feb Dunstable Leisure Centre, Dunstable LU5 4JD Dixieland country music club - Sat 18 Feb A live country music and line dance with Stonecold Country. Barton Village Hall, Hexton Rd, Barton MK45 4JY

Half term fun at Woodside for only £6 - Sat 11 to Sun 19 Feb Holiday fun including tractor rides, meet and feed the animals, animal handling and demonstrations with reptiles, owls and much more. Chick and bunny cuddling, indoor play barn, outdoor play areas, crazy golf, funfair rides, trampolines & sandpit. Mancroft Road, Aley Green, nr. Luton LU1 4DG

Blunham Giant Book Sale - Sat 18 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

A Very Modern Romeo & Juliet - Sun 12 Feb We are delighted to welcome back the English Gardner Theatre Company to Old St Mary’s Church. This time they will be performing a unique and very modern version of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. Clophill Eco Lodges, Old Church Path, Clophill MK45 4BP

Shuttleworth Scale Model Exhibition - Sun 19 Feb The annual SVAS organised Scale Model Exhibition with modelling competitions, trade stands, and Clubs and societies, now in its 8th year. The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade SG18 9EP

Valentines at Shuttleworth - Sun 12 Feb Enjoy a romantic afternoon tea in the grand setting of The House at Shuttleworth. Formerly the home of the Shuttleworth family, The House will be open for viewing with room stewards on hand to tell you more about the history of the family etc. The House, Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade SG18 9EA

Biggleswade Antiques & Vintage Fair - Sun 19 Feb Escape the high street and give yourself the opportunity of finding something truly unique at Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair. We have over 45 stalls offering a wide range of antiques and vintage items from costume and quality jewellery, china. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade SG18 8JH

A Winter Tale - Tue 14 Feb Join us on an adventure through the Country Park to find the Secret Snow Cabin! There will be a hot drink waiting for you when you arrive in the cabin for some snow themed stories. You’ll go home with a winter tale to tell! Wear warm clothes. Forest Centre, Bedford MK43 0PS

Wedding Fair - Thu 23 Feb A chance to view the Forest Centre as your potential wedding venue and meet hand-picked, local suppliers! Free entry - book in advance, via email or phone, to receive goodie bag on arrival. Forest Centre, Bedford MK43 0PS

Badgers in a Box - Thu 16 Feb Indoor craft session. Have fun creating a badger’s home in a shoe box. Are badgers fast asleep all winter long? Come along to find out what happens underground in a badger’s sett. £3 per child.

Music from the Movies - Sat 25 Feb This fundraising concert is for Citizens Advice Leighton-Linslade. All Saints Church, Church Square, Leighton Buzzard LU7 1AE

Talk: Flying the Collection’s Aircraft - Sat 25 Feb In a joint initiative with Youth & Education Support (YES), Shuttleworth’s Chief Pilot Dodge Bailey will give his perspective on the challenges and pleasures of flying aircraft from The Collection as diverse as the 1912 Blackburn Monoplane Shuttleworth SG18 9EP

Swinging Songwriters - Fri 3 FebMany songwriters have shown themselves to be magnificent wordsmiths, and those whose tunes have that swinging jazzy feel have heard them interpreted by some of the great voices in popular music – think Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone. York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ

Bucks Listings Our Potato Day & Late Winter Scionwood Swap Day Weekend - Sat 4 and Sun 5 Feb Our Special Weekend is our celebration of the Potato with our annual Potato Day headed up by Thompson & Morgan’s top vegetable expert, Colin Randel. Buckingham Garden Centre, Tingewick Road, Buckingham MK18 4AE

Stowe - ’Stowedrops’ and spring flowers til Sun 5 Mar It was long after Christmas before the gardens were bursting with snowdrops or as we fondly like to call them ’Stowedrops’. As spring develops walk around the corner to find pockets of daffodils covering the hills & wood. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

Vale Harvest Local Food Market - Sat 4 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

Cliveden - Snowdrop Walk - til Tue 28 Feb Last year, dozens of staff and volunteers planted 30,000 snowdrops. Come along and see the blanket of white. Booking Not Needed. Assistance Dogs only are welcome. Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JA

Table Top Indoor Sale - Sat 4 Feb This is a fundraising event for the 7th High Wycombe (Manor Farm) Scout Group. There are over 30 tables available for sellers to buy to sell their own goods. Sellers need to book a table in advance as the tables are usually all sold. Hazlemere Community Centre, Rose Avenue, Hazlemere HP15 7UB

Stowe - Family explorers: Nature trackers Wed 1 to Tue 28 Feb See what you can track down at Stowe this February. Pick up our guide to animal tracks and learn how to lay your own trail with secret meanings for your friends and family to follow. See what you can track down at Stowe this February. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

A Social Evening with Music by Johnny Wheeler - Solo Singer/Guitarist - Sat 4 Feb A Saturday evening of live music and dancing. Johnny Wheeler will be returning for his first visit this year performing songs from the days of swing through to the 2000’s. Including Rock ’n’ Roll, ballads and chart material. Flackwell Heath Royal British Legion, Common Road, Flackwell Heath, High Wycombe HP10 9NS

Wills And Probate - Wed 1 Feb Wills were not necessarily the preserve of the well off. Wills and probate records such as inventories can tell us much about our ancestors which other records cannot. Methodist Church Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2HB Dick Whittington - Thu 2 to Sat 4 Feb Winslow Players’ latest pantomime A fabulous, fun-filled family pantomime about Dick Whittington and his marvellous cat, by Derry French. Winslow Public Hall, Elmfields Gate, Winslow MK18 3JA

Mum2mum Market - Sun 5 Feb 2.30pm 4.30pm Buy top quality pre-loved baby, children’s, maternity and pregnancy goods and equipment at a fraction of their high street price. Buckingham Park Community Centre, Jubilee Square, Aylesbury HP19 9DZ

Chilterns MS Centre Quiz Night - Fri 3 Feb Was a Sell out event in 2016, to include fish and chip supper. Teams of up to 8 people. Raising money for the Chilterns MS Centre. Wendover Memorial Hall, Wharf Road, Aylesbury HP22 6HF

9th Springtime Scionwood Swap - Mid Shires Orchard Group - Sun 5 Feb Orchard groups, fruit tree owners and top fruit enthusiasts are invited to join in the Mid Shires Orchard Group’s 9th annual Springtime Scionwood Swap. Visitors can share, swap and acquire

for a small donation. Buckingham Garden Centre, Tingewick, Buckingham MK18 4AE

Dahl Word Wizards - Sat 11 Feb Discover a fantabulous world of extra-usual words as Word Wizards Fiona Ross and Sara-Jane Arbury dip into the Oxford Roald Dahl Dictionary and play whoppsy-good games with grammar. Expect plenty of punny piggeryjokery and tongue-twisting. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Stowe - Toddler Tuesday: The Gruffalo’s Child - Tue 7 Feb Drop by the cafe for fun toddler activities and meet other families in our local community. Listen to the all time favourite story. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

Milton Keynes Model Railway Exhibition Sat 11 Feb MKMRS return to Stantonbury for their 2017 exhibition. 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 area. Stantonbury Leisure Centre MK14 6BN

Rock Icons Show - Thu 9 Feb Rock Icons is an all new energetic live music show that will take you on a musical and visual journey through the eras and evolution of Rock and Classic Rock, featuring the music from the worlds most iconic Bands such as Yes, Deep Purple, Queen. Elgiva Theatre, St Mary’s Way, Chesham HP5 1HR

Surprising Book Boxes - Sun 12 Feb Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes give a phizz-whizzing twist to traditional fairytales. Join the fun as you make a fairytale-looking book box – with a revolting surprise inside! 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

An Audience with Mike Tindall MBE in aid of Scannappeal - Thu 9 Feb Enjoy a Q & A session with the fantastic former England Rugby Captain Mike Tindall. Also seen on ITV’s ‘The Jump’ and ‘Mission Survive with Bear Grylls. Adams Park, Hillbottom Road, Sands, High Wycombe HP12 4HJ

Cliveden - Wild Week - Mon 13 to Fri 17 Feb Get muddy, get wet or get crafty. Fun outdoors whatever the weather. This is a drop in session with a last start time of 2.30pm (event finishes 3pm). All children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking Not Needed. Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JA

“Horace Burp, Lizard Boy Hero “– Children’s book signing event - Sat 11 Feb Hilarious, dyslexia-friendly books for children aged 6-9+. Meet local author, Christine Tennent and the illustrator, Rob Overend fun activities for children – free book marks and balloons - book signing. Newport Pagnell Library, St John Street, Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes MK16 8HQ

Hughenden - Disraeli the collector - Mon 13 to Sun 26 Feb The Victorian era was the golden age of collecting and the Disraeli’s amassed a fantastic collection of objects at Hughenden. . Discover how Benjamin Disraeli collected titles and treasures, while his wife Mary Anne collected locks of hair. Hughenden, High Wycombe HP14 4LA

Stowe - Half-term: Goodies, baddies and heroes - Sat 11 to Sun 19 Feb Follow one of three adventurous trails this February halfterm. Will you pick the naughty path, the path of goodies or choose to be a hero' Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ Hughenden - Top secret Hillside trail - Sat 11 to Sun 19 Feb Follow the trail and find out about the secret Second World War map making facility code named Hillside. Step into the shoes of our Second World War mapmakers as you follow the top secret trail around the gardens. Booking Not Needed. Hughenden, High Wycombe HP14 4LA

Rhyming Nonsense with Gavin Puckett Mon 13 Feb Join Gavin Puckett, author of Fables from the Stables, in a workshop filled with rhyming nonsense as he talks about his books and the rather ‘revolting’ childhood inspiration behind them. Audience participation (and overuse of the word knickers). 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

King Arthur - Sat 11 Feb An epic tale of magic, heroism, love and betrayal adapted from the novel Arthur: High King of Britain, by Michael Morpurgo, the author of War Horse and Private Peaceful. Ugland Auditorium, Stowe House Preservation Trust, Stowe Buckingham MK18 5EH

Waddesdon Manor - Family Cookery School Mon 13 to Fri 17 Feb Bring the kids to our family cookery school, where they can create their own selection of chocolate treats and cakes. Our chefs will take you through each recipe. Suitable for ages 7 to 11. Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, near Aylesbury HP18 0JH

recommended for 8 years to adult. Under 8s will need to be accompanied by an adult. 81 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Grandma Flew Spitfires - Tue 14 Feb 168 women were among more than one thousand civilian pilots to deliver over 300,000 aircraft from factory to airfield during World War Two, flying everything from Tiger Moths for training to heavy bombers. Community Centre, Wakeman Road, Bourne End SL8 5SX

Time to Rhyme Party - Thu 16 Feb Join us for phizz-whizzing fun as we play games, make up redunculous rhymes and listen to stories. Fancy dress as your favourite Revolting Rhymes’ character is optional! Age: recommended for 4+ years. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Hughenden - Top secret map making - Tue 14 to Thu 16 Feb Create your own top secret map to take home, and learn about Second World War code breaking. Booking Not Needed. Suitable for children aged 5-12 years. Hughenden, High Wycombe HP14 4LA

Dance Workshop: Viennese Waltz - Thu 16 Feb This workshop will take the learner/Improver through the steps and technique of the exciting and beautiful Viennese Waltz. The workshop is open to all adult dancer and non dancers (14 years plus) with limited spaces available. MKSnap, 20, Bourton Low, Walnut Tree, Milton Keynes MK7 7DE

Clay Beanstalk Treasures - Tue 14 Feb Listen to an extract of Jack and the Beanstalk from Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes, then discover treasures just like Jack! Make your own clay riches from the top of the beanstalk in our fun craft workshop. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

High School Musical - Thu 16 to Sat 18 Feb Rare Productions, the UK’s leading youth musical theatre production company, present the Disney smash hit High School Musical. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Cirque Berserk! - Tue 14 and Wed 15 Feb We’re back! Direct from six sold-out seasons in London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and three packed-out tours, Britain’s favourite contemporary thrill circus is setting out once again to amaze and entertain the nation. Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe HP11 2XE

Revolting Recipes with Science Oxford - Fri 17 Feb Try out Roald Dahl-inspired lickable wallpaper, create sweet treats to take home and experiment with magical drinkable colour-changing liquids at this hands-on workshop. Are you brave enough to test our revolting recipes? 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Pancake Race - Tue 14 Feb Buckingham’s annual Pancake Races are held on the green outside St Peter & St Paul Church. There are four age categories 5 and under, 6-11yrs, 1216 yrs and adults. Entry to take part is free. St. Peter & St. Paul Church, Castle Hill, Buckingham MK18 1BS

Discover Dahl’s archives - Fri 17 Feb A unique behind-the-scenes peek into our archive store, which houses Roald Dahl’s original letters and manuscripts. Age: recommended for 8 years to adult. Under 8s will need to be accompanied by an adult. 81 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Stowe - Wild Wednesday: Mud glorious mud - Wed 15 Feb Get muddy making mud creations. Make your own glorious squelchy mud pie and decorate with twigs and leaves. Get muddy making mud creations. On this workshop make your own glorious squelchy mud pie and decorate with twigs and leaves. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

Clay Beanstalk Treasures - Sat 18 Feb Listen to an extract of Jack and the Beanstalk from Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes, then discover treasures just like Jack! Make your own clay riches from the top of the beanstalk in our fun craft workshop. Age: recommended for 4+ years. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Wolf’s Grandma Mask - Wed 15 Feb What big eyes you have! Make a mask of the Big Bad Wolf pretending to be Grandma and surprise all your friends. Age: recommended for 4+ years. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Wedding Fair in Heatherden Hall @ Pinewood Film Studios - Sun 19 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

Discover Dahl’s archives - Thu 16 Feb A unique behind-the-scenes peek into our archive store, which houses Roald Dahl’s original letters and manuscripts. Age:

range of local wedding suppliers all happy to chat about your "Big day”. Heatherden Hall, Pinewood Studios, Iver SL0 0NH Wolf’s Grandma Mask - Sun 19 Feb What big eyes you have! Make a mask of the Big Bad Wolf pretending to be Grandma and surprise all your friends. Age: recommended for 4+ years. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Amersham Concert Club - Sat 25 Feb Chamber Music Concert given by Ugne Tiskute – viola, Alexandra Vaduva – piano. Sonata in F minor for viola and piano ~ Brahms, Prelude (1st cello suite, viola version) in G major ~ J S Bach, Intermezzi Op.117 for piano ~ Brahms, Romeo and Juliet. Dr Challoner’s High School, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont, Amersham HP7 9QB

Cliveden - Cliveden Entertains: Daily Talks Mon 20 to Tue 28 Feb Hear our volunteers share their knowledge of the estate’s glamorous history and the work we’re doing today. From gardeners to statue cleaners, each talk offers a new insight into Cliveden estate. Booking not needed. Assistance Dogs only. Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JA

Cliveden - Game of Clues Murder Mystery Sat 25 and Sun 26 Feb A new game around the gardens of Cliveden. Band together with your family and friends to solve the murder of Lord Mucke, found murdered on the estate. Seek out clues, solve puzzles and unravel the mystery before the killer strikes. Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JA

Butterflies - an illustrated talk by Nick Bowles - Tue 21 Feb Butterflies: beautiful, attractive and some may say a bit scatty, but most agree their populations are also very fragile. Those species with very specific habitat requirements can be particularly vulnerable to environmental changes. Great Missenden Memorial Centre HP16 9AE

Food Fair - Sat 25 Feb 5th annual food fair featuring the Great Buckingham Youth Bake Off. Some of those taking part this year, are Kelly Webb of Sugar everywhere with her wonderful celebration cakes, Indian Orchard with their Indian chutneys, Bucks Star Beer and Mexican. The Community Centre, Cornwall’s Meadow, Buckingham MK18 1RP

Amersham Concert Club presents Ugne Tiskute (viola) and Alexandra Vaduva (piano) - Sat 25 Feb This young and vibrant duo will perform a lovely mix of well-known and less familiar pieces for viola and piano. Brahms Sonata in F minor for viola and piano J S Bach Prelude (1st cello suite, viola version) in G. Dr Challoners High School, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont HP7 9QB

Hughenden - Disraeli the collector - Mon 27 Feb to Thu 27 Apr The Victorian era was the golden age of collecting and the Disraeli’s amassed a fantastic collection of objects at Hughenden. . Discover how Benjamin Disraeli collected titles and treasures, while his wife Mary Anne collected locks of hair. Hughenden, High Wycombe HP14 4LA Spamalot - Tue 28 Feb to Sat 4 Mar Monty Python’s Spamalot gallops into Stantonbury to bring the wild world of Pythonesque Camelot to Milton Keynes (to the sound of banging coconut shells).Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Reading and Chalgrove: Disease and Death Sat 25 Feb Simon Marsh will explore John Hampden’s role in Parliament’s 1643 campaign against the King. From the typhoid ridden trenches before the town of Reading and the slow march of the Earl of Essex’s army to Thame, discover the dramatic story. Buckinghamshire County Museum and Roald Dahl Childrens Gallery, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP

To be included in March’s Listings Email: thesticks9@gmail.com putting Listings in the subject line

The Chiltern Camerata performs music by Brahms and Stravinsky - Sat 25 Feb The players of the Chiltern Camerata follow up the exceptional success of the first concert of their current season. All Saints Parish Church, High Wycombe HP13 6RF

Deadline 20th February