Sticks June 2016 by The Sticks

Issue 41 June 2016

In this edition of The Sticks Exclusive interview with DJ and TV personality Pat Sharp Interview with Russell Kane Russell Grant’s June Horoscope Hero Cheese of the Month Advice from Consensus HR BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace – Summer Life Hacks Win Tickets to the Flashback Festival And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks 1

Welcome to the June 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 Pat Sharp Interview with Russell Kane HR Column from Consensus HR Curwens Column Art Column Russell Grant’s Horoscope Complex World of Grandparenthood Janey Lee Grace – Summer Life Hacks Win Tickets to the Flashback Festival Summer Movie Preview Hero Cheese of the Month Big Barn Food Column Listings – Herts, Beds & Bucks

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Contributors: Terry Sullivan, Janey Lee Grace, Jo Coker, Sharon Struckman, Toby Archer, Russell Grant, Sonny Etchell

See you in July! 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

Exclusive Interview with DJ and TV personality Pat Sharp Pat Sharp has worked as a presenter at BBC Radio 1, Radio Mercury, British Forces Broadcasting Service, Capital FM , Smooth & Magic and allowed the nation to put a face to a name when he began presenting Top of The Pops. In 1989 Pat presented cult children’s TV programme Funhouse until it finished in 1999. More recently Pat has appeared on Come Dine With Me, I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, Weakest Link and Eggheads.

How did you get started in radio, because you were very young when you joined BBC Radio1? I was 20 years old, which is absolutely crazy when I think back about it, it was right time, right place - I was very lucky. I had an agent who looked after a lot of the Radio One DJs, people like Simon Bates, D.L.T, Bruno Brookes, Mike Read, Paul Gambaccini and Anne Nightingale, all the people we have all looked up to over the years. He said to the BBC “I have this young guy who has not been on the radio before but, he might be good for something in the future, so would he listen to my demo tape” The boss of Radio One at the time, the late Derek Chinnery had a listen and said “Oh he is really good, does he want to come and cover Steve Wright next week”. I had not been told this, so I was not spoilt or full of myself at the time, but I do remember saying to my manager, who had only just taken me on at the time, that I would rather be on Capital Radio than on Radio One because I was more a Capital listener and I lived in London. He said to me “Trust me you need to do this” I said to him “Alright then I will give it a go”. I did Steve Wright’s show for a week and they said “Thanks very much, we have not got any more jobs, hope you had fun see you” so I went home thinking what am I going to do? Then Radio Luxemburg called and offered me 2 weeks on Radio Luxemburg. So I went out to Luxemburg and at that time it was quite a popular station, I went out there and worked on the great 208 as it was called then. I did a couple of weeks on there and on about my 10th day, my agent phoned me and said that Radio One had offered me a full time job doing the Sunday morning early breakfast show so I joined Radio One full time in late 1982, the same time as Gary Davis and Janice Long, and we were all on the radio together, 3 new DJ’s. What are you doing radio wise at the moment? I don’t do a lot of radio; in fact I don’t do any full time radio. The last full time radio I did was a couple of years ago, I was doing the afternoon show at “Smooth” and they got bought by another company and they changed the line up and style of the station, which is what anyone would do if they purchased a company. I still do a couple of shows that are relevant each week. I do a syndicated show which goes out on a number of stations called “All of the Hits” based on my old “Pat Sharps all the hits” jingle and that goes out to any station that wants to buy it, I record it in London then it is uploaded to a satellite and then downloaded via a code that any stations who has paid for it get to have. So that gets me on the radio in Australia, Cyprus, Aberdeen,

and Essex and wherever I am on. I also do another show for a station that is the number one in Oman; in the Middle East called “High FM”; I am on there on Friday mornings. The great thing is now everybody can hear you wherever you are. How do you think the music industry has changed in the last 35 years? Dramatically I would say, absolutely dramatically changed in every shape and form. Is that good or bad? Good in one way and bad in another, it is very diluted because for radio it is almost like a record shop. There are so many radio stations that people don’t care as much as they did. When I was on Capital I think listeners were excited that it was their local radio station and they used to say the guys on Capital will be play this record at 8.15 on Monday morning and I need to tune in to listen to it and its going to be great etc. whereas now they don’t give a monkeys what they hear, when it is or where they hear it because they have already got it from the internet, they can listen to a radio station in New York on their phone; everything has been belittled you know, but in general I should be very grateful - over all I had many glorious years on a radio station that people loved, was very popular and was listened to. People would come to our gigs and all these years on I get compliments from people who say “I grew up with you, you made my childhood” with the kids TV and the radio and stuff like that. I don’t think people who are doing this today will get that in 30 years time. Talking of TV, for 12 years you did Funhouse? Yes absolutely, that show has cult status. It is on Challenge TV channel regularly as they buy different series which they can show as many times as they like for 5 years, so it is endless. Would you like to bring it back? We have looked in to it and don’t think it is going to happen. The funny thing about it being on Challenge now is that people come up and say “my children will not let me take it off the planner and I loved it so much when I was a kid and they love it” so it is another generation who are watching it. Bet it was great fun to make? We did it all in one week a year. We went for 7 days to Glasgow and over the 7 days we would record 14 shows, so was 2 a day that was 3 and half months worth and the whole series. It was fun but incredibly hard work. You would start filming at 7am and after 7 days on say a Sunday morning and having to jump out of a go-cart and go “Its Friday afternoon, here we goooooo!!!!” I suppose when I was 25 it was a bit easier then now, when I am 54. If you had the choice of only doing one thing, would it be TV or radio? That’s a good one, I would have said back in the day I would have chosen radio, now I would say probably television because I think it is more accessible than radio and more popular because there are not as many TV stations as there are radio, even though there are 100’s of TV channels. If you got a nice gig on ITV people would still see 5

you on there. I have just done a bit part in an ITV show called “The Next Great Magician” which will be out in July; the buzz about it now is quite big. I think I choose to do a bit more telly than I have done, more adult based, whereas radio is disposable. If I was on the radio now people would not say what they say to me, for example I had someone come up to me 3 months ago and said “oh my god I could had killed you in 1988. I was going along the Marylebone road and my car over heated and you were banging on about a beautiful 32 degree day in London and the records were sounding great, playing all the jingles, then on about can’t wait to get out in the sunshine as soon as the show finishes. London town is steaming, I thought my car is steaming, I could have killed you there and then” and he remembered my words from 30 years ago. Now, if someone says something on the radio, I don’t think people will remember it in 30 minutes. You had a musical career as Pat and Mick with Mick (Brown)? Yes they were all charity records, we raised over £1,000,000, were all cover versions like “Let's All Chant" and "I Haven't Stopped Dancing Yet", and produced by Stock, Aitken & Waterman. We got to play at being a popstar and went on Top Of The Pops when we were Capital radio DJs and having the Radio One DJs introduce us livid that we were on the show was quiet amusing. It was all great fun. Who were your musical heroes when you were growing up? My musical heroes when I was growing up were people like The Sweet, Mud, Alvin Stardust, I loved all the glam rock stuff, and I was a big Bay City Rollers fan too. Away from the music business what do you do to relax? Ironically I am quite good at washing my own car; I find that relaxing also I walk my dog a lot getting some fresh air. Where is the most interesting place you have ever worked? It was when I worked on Sky Channel’s first pop video shows (Skytrax) shown across Europe in 40 million homes via satellite throughout the 80’s. It was quite weird how I could drive to Heathrow and walk through the airport and no one would say hello but if I got out at Oslo, Amsterdam, Italy or Germany everybody would know me as I was on telly but not on telly in England, so that was quite weird because the recognition was immense but as there was no cable or Satellite TV in UK. You are in charge of the country for the day would do /change? Now do I go for something would help everybody like give more money to guy on some breakfast show at a random radio 6

what would be the first thing you sensible and go for something that the NHS or do I say get rid of some station so that I can take over. Let

me think ….. I would probably go down the silly route then I would say there should be special cycleways, added to current cycleways, but not for bikes but for people to walk their dogs.

Twitter @patsharp See Pat live on stage at Tropicana Nights on Saturday 25 June at Watford Colosseum (Over 25’s only) Chilfest in Tring on Saturday 9th July

Russell Kane Right Man, Wrong Age Interview by Brian Donaldson

Russell Kane is a changed man. For his Right Man, Wrong Age tour, you may encounter someone with a new look, fresh perspectives and a different approach to his comedy. “In the last year I’ve been married and had a baby. I’ve changed my hair, I’ve changed my look, I’ve thrown all my eyeliner in the bin. I literally went to my wardrobe one day and got all my ridiculous clothes and took them to the Sue Ryder shop for some other man having a midlife crisis then bought the four exact same suits in different colours from Topman. Then I got my hair as flat as it can go and I thought, ‘that’s it: this is me now’.” In fact, Russell can pinpoint the exact moment when he needed to alter his outlook and write a new show. It started with somebody at the door . . . “I’m always looking for the moment that can make me look ridiculous in a way that is compelling. I was in the middle of spray-tanning myself upstairs in these tiny pants when the doorbell went. I went downstairs in my dressing gown and this window cleaner was touting for work. He leaned in and said, ‘I’m really sorry to disturb you: is your mum or dad in at all?’ Initially you might have thought this was a 7

compliment, but it’s really not. He could be talking about how I’m putting myself across so I thought: ‘clothes in the bin’. And at that moment, there was Right Man, Wrong Age.” In the world of stand-up, acts are continually expected to evolve and grow and turn over a significant amount of material every one or two years. For some this burden might prove too much, but for Russell Kane this is a challenge he relishes. “I’ll keep changing, and I don’t really ever want to stand still. I don’t care if it confuses people about where I’m coming from. I’m protean; I don’t want to be recognisable in five years’ time; that’s what keeps my writing going. One day I’m learning Spanish, the next I’m learning survivalism. I might do my maths GCSE next week: who knows?” For now, though, Russell is focused on making Right Man, Wrong Age the best show it can possibly be. His topic this time around is how we never quite feel the life-stage that we’re in and the age that we’re at, whether we’re 80 or 18. “When you’re 18, you look in the mirror and think ‘I know what I want to do, so why am I trapped in this 18-year-old body?’ while the 80-year-old is still waltzing and dancing around in her head. That’s going to be my jumping off point and from there I’ll do lots of accessible observations as well as the odd thinky bit. But I don’t want to disappear up my own bum with this show, I just want to go on in my suit, like Michael McIntyre or Peter Kay, and just be funny and have lots of big laughs. My only job in life is to be funny.” Inevitably, his new fatherhood status will have to be addressed in his show. As ever with Russell, he’ll work hard to avoid easy clichés and tired stereotypes as he tackles a subject that has been raised on many a stage by several generations of comedians. “It’s so hack to talk about having babies that I need to find another way in. It’s like walking into Pret at 5pm and there’s one boiled egg left: that’s what’s left to say about childbirth. But when you’re coming at it from a male point of view, you need to find a way in. I’ve never heard a man talk about caesarean section, so that might be the way to go.” If you’ve seen Russell on stage, you’ll know there is a physicality to his act which 8

matches the blizzard of ideas and words. So, how does he wind down after a show? “Nothing exotic, just a glass of red wine. I would like to get to bed earlier, but I need a good movie or, if I’m feeling particularly tired, something like Towie or Take Me Out; something that lobotomises me. I’m always reading good stuff, but now and again you need a burger because you can’t live on quinoa all the time. So I need something mega mainstream to bring me down.” Normally in the run-up to a touring show, Russell will have almost a month of preview gigs under his belt. This time around, he had to ditch most of those plans to film a forthcoming BBC series, Stupid Man, Smart Phone, for which he jetted off to various inhospitable parts of the world (the Arctic Circle, North Africa and Costa Rica among them) to see if he could survive purely with the aid of a constantly fully-charged mobile device with a permanent Wi-Fi connection. This is another example of a man who constantly wants to stretch himself, both physically and intellectually, whether it’s going on to Radio 4’s Saturday Review alongside AS Byatt to discuss the new Julian Barnes novel or writing his own next literary work. In 2012, two years after he won the Edinburgh Comedy Award, Russell published The Humorist, the tale of a tormented comedy critic who discovers the secret blueprint for humour, and he is continually working away on future literary projects. Kane also has ambitions to tap into the online market with his stand-up. “I’ve not really seen other stand-ups doing it; I’ve seen some using their social media and doing bits of sketches but I haven’t seen many take the risk of doing stand-up down the barrel of a camera, posting it and seeing what happens. I did a thing recently, which I called The Kaneing, where I looked at a celebrity news story and put it on my Facebook wall. I was worried it might seem a bit embarrassing and desperate, but it got 64,000 views overnight.” The popularity of Russell Kane is in little doubt, but he’s keen to make the most of his time at the top of the British stand-up tree. His sense of gratitude for the job he’s doing is palpable and he confesses that touring the country and making people laugh is something he will never tire of. “I love it. If I ever have a bad day and feel miserable, I think about the things my family have done for a living. The fact that I can walk into a hotel, lie on the bed, watch a sci-fi movie, go and do an hour’s work on stage is incredible.”

More information and tickets for “Right Man, Wrong Age” are available at: www.russellkane.co.uk / @russell_kane / www.offthekerb.com / @OffTheKerb Thursday, 9th June Stables, Milton Keynes 01908, 280 800, www.stables.org

Wednesday, 13th July, Radlett Centre, Radlett, 01923 859 291, www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Finding the Right Freelancer Many businesses like to work with freelancers. It’s easy to see why; they offer the expertise, flexibility and cost effectiveness that businesses want – fast. When outsourcing, it’s important to work with someone who understands you and your organisation. This includes your goals, your culture and any budget or timescale involved. In a recent article, Harvard Business Review suggested that clarity and transparency are essential if outsourcing is to be successful. It underlines what is important to Consensus HR when meeting new clients. “It’s all about communication” says Matthew of Consensus HR. “Businesses outsource their HR requirements to us so that they have immediate input and know that their requirements will be met quickly and expertly. “From the very beginning, we need to know about goals, budget and timescale – and that’s just the beginning. Our expertise covers everything from recruitment and rewards to discipline and redundancy. Good HR practices can be used to increase sales and the overall turnover of the business.” According to outsourcing:

Harvard

Business

Review,

five

factors

influence

successful

1. Be transparent about your willingness to work with freelancers 2. Determine the level of contribution required 3. Define what essential skills and experience you are looking for – and the ‘nice to haves’ 4. Allow all those who will depend upon the freelancer to be involved with the selection process 5. Plan frequent reviews to make sure that the relationship delivers results “A business owner must ensure that the freelancer they choose is the right fit for the business and that the level of management required is acknowledged’” adds Matthew. “At Consensus HR we get to know the business and become the company’s HR Dept. Many of our clients request us to visit them to implement performance management processes, to help with recruitment and when dealing with organisational structure changes. “We work closely with our clients to find the best way to implement the many HR tools available and ensure they are seen as proactive rather than reactive businesses.” To find out more, contact Matthew from Consensus HR for an informal discussion.

YOUR LOCAL SOLICITORS Tenancy Deposit Scheme With so many more people becoming landlords nowadays, it’s all too easy to fall foul of the very strict rules and regulations in this area – mostly designed to protect the tenant. It’s a very good idea to take proper legal advice from a Landlord & Tenant specialist. One fundamental point which has to be clearly understood by all landlords is the importance of a tenancy deposit scheme (TDS) and what their obligations are under a TDS. What is a Tenancy Deposit Scheme? A landlord under an assured shorthold tenancy (AST) must protect a tenant’s deposit by using their authorised tenancy deposit scheme (TDS) operated by an approved scheme administrator. A TDS has two main objectives: 1. To ensure that, when a tenant pays a deposit, it will be protected and returned to the tenant at the end of the AST, except when the landlord has a legitimate claim on it. 2. To resolve disputes between landlords and tenants using dispute resolution rather than via the courts. There are two types of TDS: • A custodial TDS requires a landlord to pay its tenant’s deposit to a scheme administrator, who holds the deposit until the tenancy ends. • An insurance TDS allows the landlord to retain possession of the deposit, but they secure it by paying a fee and insurance premiums to the scheme administrator. What are a landlord’s obligations under a TDS? Within 30 days of receipt of the deposit a landlord must: • Comply with the “initial requirements” of the TDS. • Give the tenant certain prescribed information. This information should be provided directly to the tenant. It is not sufficient to merely identify the TDS and let the tenant make their own investigations. What sanctions are available if a landlord fails to fulfil their obligations under a TDS? • If a landlord fails to comply with the TDS, a tenant can apply to court even if the tenancy has ended. • The penalty for failing to comply with the TDS will be between one and three times the deposit. If you are a new or inexperienced Landlord, you can see that dealing with a TDS can be quite tricky and is a massively expensive trap for the unwary. If you need any help with Landlord & Tenant issues, contact our expert - Adrian Boulter on 0208 363 4444 or email him Adrian.boulter@Curwens.co.uk Curwens have offices in Royston, Hoddesdon and Enfield.

International Artist Profile - Debbie Baxter Debbie studied A level art and A/S level history of Art at Broxbourne School Hertfordshire, spending her days influenced by some of the best teachers who always pushed her. Field trips to Dorset studying the language of skyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and rocks then onto Venice to see the masters from Michelangelo to Giotto. Debbie attended St Albans School of Art, studying fine art and printing, while being mentored by inspiring teachers. Her mother, famous wildlife artist Daphne Baxter and famous international artist Daniel Samuels stood by her throughout her young journey influencing and inspiring her art.

Debbie grew up in the midst of a secluded village in Hertfordshire with no bus service, just a public house and lots of woodland and countryside to keep her occupied. She fell in love with the woods, spending most of her time discovering new places to build a camp and sit and draw with all the nature moving around her. Drawing and painting became her preferred language as she felt that nature had its own way of communicating and all she wanted to do was to discover how to portray this in a pictorial manner. Her motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s studio, stuffed with animals and delicate watercolour brushes creating the most beautiful wildlife art, became a real beckon of what high quality work was. Always present and always hugely supportive of her efforts she was her greatest strength. Daniel Samuels an amazing spiritual artist with his Greek Mythological creations made her realise there was a hidden spiritual meaning in the life of depicting the nature around her. He taught Debbie discipline and how to observe, asking her to draw a drinking glass again and again until she realised how much it would begin to offer up its secret information the more she observed and drew it. All she really wanted to do was to paint and draw. She could sit for hours creating an image. Always happiest and

most content as long as she was out side in the fresh air developing and depicting what she saw in front of her. Debbie found herself in Asia were India and Indonesia were great teachers of colour and she discovered how to open and broaden her palette; allowing a new sense of vigour and connection to the nature around her. On returning to the UK she resumed her relationship with the English flora and fauna, growing and developing a special relationship with trees and all they had to offer.

She spends most of her time walking with her head in the trees, looking upward and discovering a different perspective of trees; Walking through the seasons with them, observing the colours of the bark, the sky, the wildlife and how the light changes all of it on a minute by minute basis. How the nature and wildlife participate in the life of a tree and how its beauty can be revealed in patterns and shapes that enchant and capture her imagination. Debbie has a studio set amongst a healthy selection of wooden areas and large vistas that create exciting light and perspective. She prefers to paint in oils and says “I love the feel of oil on canvas and it’s a medium that is responsive and forgiving as I develop an image.” Debbie will be part of this years “Herts Visual Arts” open studios at Mardleybury Gallery in September. For more information about Debbie, you can visit her website www.artdkbaxter.com where you can find her links to her social networking.

Russell Grant's Monthly Horoscopes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; June

ARIES March 21st - April 20th CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd Stubborn fears could hold you back in the opening days of the month. It's time to face the phobias that have prevented you from taking risks and acquiring new skills. Be gentle with yourself, especially on the 5th. That's when the New Moon will force you into unfamiliar territory. It may be difficult to absorb some complicated information. Resist the urge to throw in the towel. Arguments over money management could erupt during the first half of June. Try to remember you and a romantic partner are on the same team. Break free of a limiting cultural, religious or political belief system in mid-June; you should adopt a more receptive attitude towards people who are different from you. The Full Moon on the 20th will prompt you to adopt a more liberating philosophy of life. It will be easier to get financial assistance from a bank or lending institution as June turns to July.

It may be difficult to get a good night's sleep in early June. Problems at work are weighing on your mind. It's possible you are out of your depth. Getting additional training is critical to your success. Unfortunately, it may be difficult to find an affordable course. You might feel isolated and alienated on the 5th, when the New Moon pushes you onto the sidelines. Instead of resenting your solitude, try to embrace it. You can be very productive when left to your own devices. Developing a unique product or service will increase your stature at work. Turn a deaf ear to a stuffy colleague who mocks your efforts. This naysayer is just jealous of your initiative. The Full Moon on the 20th may result in a job offer. Seize this opportunity to venture into a rapidly growing field. Your best friend or romantic partner will offer their full support. Let their encouragement push you forward.

TAURUS April 21st - May 21st LEO July 24th - August 23rd

Money will be tight in early June, so be as conservative as possible with your resources. Lending money to a loved one could end in disaster. It's better to keep friendship and finance separate. The New Moon on the 5th will force you to spend money as quickly as you make it. This financial uncertainty could take its toll on your love life. Arguing about bills can cause resentment. The two of you need to come together as a team and create a budget. Cutting back on luxuries is painful, but it's also necessary, especially around the middle of the month. On the 20th, the Full Moon could allow you to pay off a sizable debt. The sense of liberation could be overwhelming. Going on an overseas trip will be great fun towards the end of the June. A change of scenery will improve your outlook and restore your confidence. Take control of your destiny.

Arguments in your social circle will erupt at the beginning of June. You're about to learn who is loyal and who is not. Don't be afraid to break off a relationship with someone who is in the grips of an addiction or involved with criminal activity. Think how your reputation has been affected by associating with this troublemaker. The New Moon on the 5th will show you the price of such friendships. Don't let someone blame you for their bad behaviour. Getting a change of scenery will be a good remedy for this problem. Take an interesting trip with someone special in June. You'll reap the rewards of a gamble on the 20th, thanks to the supportive Full Moon. A moneymaking opportunity is on the horizon at the end of June. Be ready to accept this offer at a moment's notice. You'll be eager for a change during the final days of the month.

GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd It will be difficult to move ahead at work in early June. Your best bet is to lay low and wait for stronger leadership. If you're facing an intolerable situation, it may be necessary to quit. Resist the urge to burn bridges, especially around the 5th, when the New Moon will make you very headstrong. Don't undermine your professional reputation for the sake of telling someone off. Asserting your needs will become easier this June, when a passive/aggressive authority figure is removed from the mix. Although it will take some time to establish a rapport with your new leader, you won't feel nearly as defeated. Striking a balance between your personal and professional lives will be challenging during the second half of June. You can find an innovative solution to this problem on the 20th, when the Full Moon allows you to let down your defences with a loved one.

Work will be a source of stress at the beginning of June. Your boss will want you to put in as much time as possible at the office, which will undermine your personal life. Try to explain the situation to your best friend or romantic partner. Be honest about your lack of availability. If the situation is temporary, you can ride out this storm. Are you facing an indefinitely busy time? You may want to seek a less demanding job. A well connected friend could lead you to a good position that will allow more personal freedom. Launching a home based business is also possible, particularly near the 20th. That's when you can use the strength of the Full Moon to strike a better balance between work and home. Spending quality time with your amour will be enriching for you both as June turns to July. Think about taking an extended break together.

LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd

CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th

It will be difficult to find a channel for your expertise at the beginning of the month. Don't be surprised when you're expected to perform jobs that are beneath your skill set. By adopting a humble attitude and working where you are needed, you'll make a good impression. The New Moon on the 6th may require you to come into work on your day off. Resist the urge to complain. Things will improve around the middle of June. Meeting a debt could be difficult; instead of skipping a payment, contact your creditor. It may be possible to avoid some hefty penalty fees. On the 20th, the Full Moon will bring an end to a neighbourhood construction project. It should be easier to get around after this pivotal day. A home improvement project will be successful towards the end of June. Improve the plumbing, upgrade the electrical system or repair structural damage. Moving to a peaceful neighbourhood is also a possibility.

Your health will be delicate in early June. Don't tax your system with sugar, fat and alcohol. A diet that is mainly comprised of fresh produce, lean protein and whole grains will keep your strength up. It's also important to take exercise each day. Instead of throwing yourself into a vigorous workout, simply take a brisk walk on your lunch hour. Getting more sleep is also advised. The New Moon on the 5th could draw your attention to a nagging ache or pain. Get a medical consultation as soon as possible, so a small problem doesn't develop into a chronic condition. The Full Moon on the 20th will be good for dealing with a bureaucratic institution. This will be a good time to submit paperwork or apply for a license. You may be offered a teaching opportunity at the end of the month. Getting paid to share your expertise will be profoundly fulfilling.

SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd

AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th Resist the urge to take emotional and financial risks at the beginning of June. As much as you crave adventure, it's better to maintain the status quo. If you've been harbouring a crush on someone, stay silent. Hidden facts about the object of your affection could soon come to light, changing the way you feel. Are you already in a relationship? The two of you could undergo a rough patch. The New Moon on the 5th may prompt you to go your separate ways, due to a basic incompatibility. Instead of running right into another relationship, concentrate on building friendships with neighbours and colleagues. Old alliances could fall by the wayside during June; you no longer want to mix with people whose views you find offensive. On the 20th, you'll have an opportunity to end some toxic alliances. Money from a grant, loan or scholarship could become available as June turns to July.

Money will be tight at the beginning of June. This isn't a good time to splash out on luxuries. Be as resourceful as possible with your income and make resources stretch as far as possible. A demanding relative or romantic partner will try to make you feel guilty about these reduced circumstances. Don't take the bait. You may be tempted to make an expensive purchase on the 5th, due to a challenging New Moon. Instead of shopping, you will be better off spending quality time with a supportive friend or relative. The Full Moon on the 20th can improve your financial situation, but only if you're willing to accept an unorthodox job offer. Working unusual hours can give you a chance to pay some bills and put some money into savings. You'll make a very good impression on job interviews. If you play your cards right, you could have your choice of several employment offers.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th SAGITTARIUS November 23rd December 21st

Home life will be stressful at the beginning of June. It will be impossible to get your needs met by self absorbed relatives. Instead of looking to them for support, seek to satisfy your own needs. You might decide to move into your own place. Resist the urge to sign a lease on the 6th, when the New Moon will tempt you into making a hasty decision. Hold out for a place that is within your budget and well located. Your boss or your own business affairs could put pressure on you in June, demanding you work extra hours. If you satisfy their demands, a pay rise or promotion could arrive near the 20th. Alternatively, you may become so frustrated with your employer that you find a different job during the second half of June. Either way, you will emerge more successful than you did at the start of the month. Steering a friendship into romantic waters is possible as June turns to July.

A close friendship or romantic relationship will experience stress in the opening days of June. No matter how hard you try, it will be difficult to resolve your differences. The two of you may decide to part ways on the 5th, when the New Moon underscores these conflicts. If you decide to stay together, you'll have to be more respectful and encouraging towards one another. Be honest about the situation; prolonging it will only cause more pain. Your home will be a comforting place to recover and heal. Let your family pamper you throughout June. Self reliance is overrated. Putting your needs first will be imperative on the 20th, when the Full Moon makes you realise the full extent of your sacrifices. Take this opportunity to enjoy your favourite hobbies, food and pursuits. An exciting job offer will be a welcome diversion at the end of the month. This position will improve your financial situation.

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

The complex world of Grandparenthood is explained by Jo Coker external Clinical Advisor to LCC On becoming a Grandparent I have just become a grandparent again and naturally I am thrilled. There is no greater privilege than watching a new life develop and sharing the milestones in the developing child’s life. However, barely a week passes when I do not have either a grandparent or parent in my consulting room, because they are finding the relationship problematic and traumatic; often the stories are heartrending and those involved are very upset. In my experience the problems come about because both sides are trying to avoid conflict and so do not address the issues that are “hot” and therefore cannot make changes and compromises. Much of the upset seems to be caused by lack of flexibility on both sides, but dare I say it is often on the grandparents’ side. Naturally, the grandparents are “old hands”; they have raised their children and have views on how it should be done. Often they forget that times change and with this infant care practices. With this in mind, below are some tips to help those of you expecting a grandchild start on this new stage with as little difficulty as possible and blossom. •

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Prepare!! When we have a child we read books and take classes, as a grandparent you too can prepare. There are many good books out there on the topic of becoming a Grandparent with advice and tips. Also, read some books on current baby rearing practice so you can be up-to date in any discussions that you may have. Don’t just hold on to what you know, be curious. When the expectant parents tell you the news, whatever your concerns, smile and be supportive. You may be worried they are not financially stable or in the middle of a course that will be disrupted or single. These things can be worked out later, announcing your first baby is special, do not cloud it. Check whether this is common knowledge, and who it can or cannot be discussed with. Leave them the pleasure of telling friends and wider family. Many couples, or Mums-to-be like to wait until they have had a scan to check everything is progressing well before they tell the wider family, so respect this. Do ask what you can do to help and support the couple during the pregnancy. Most couples appreciate an offer of help with equipment or a donation to help with the expense, but be guided by them. You may want to buy up the shop, but it may not be what they want or their taste, so be flexible and open to their needs. Consider how you might be able to help after the birth, do not make major changes without consultation, but perhaps explore with the parents to be how you might be helpful and what realistically you might want to and be available to do. If you do commit to helping care for a grandchild to enable the parents to work, make sure you think this through very carefully, as it can lead to tensions if you find the commitment too much. Never tell horrific birth stories or try and direct the birth procedure. You may have

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had a wonderful natural birth and breast fed until weaning, but you must respect the new mother-to-be and her decisions, which may be very different. Never interfere on this matter it will cause conflict; your relationship with the mother and your grandchild may depend on this. If asked, offer any thoughts very tentatively and not as though they were written in tablets of stone. Be interested in the birth plan and their plans for their child. Remember, Mothers-to-be are often very centred on what is happening to them. Make allowances for this and be interested in what is happening to her. Do not be offended if she seems disinterested in your life. This is normal and part of the process for preparing for parent hood, after the birth Mums tend to gradually regain their sense of perspective. Do be helpful after the birth, but I warn you this is a tricky balancing act! Do too much and you may undermine the new parent/ parents and make them feel they are not coping, so be sensitive. I know we all want to hold the baby, but this may mean you are sitting comfortably while Mum is running around making tea. Where possible try to help by allowing the Mother more time with her baby, so offer to do some ironing or cooking. Perhaps take the baby for a walk so Mum can catch up on well-deserved rest. Be aware of post-natal depression and open to talking if it occurs and supporting Mum and baby. Mums today have a lot of pressures on them, which are probably very different from when you had children, be empathetic. Maybe help Mum find out about the good local support available to her. The Mum may be your much-loved daughter but be prepared to share her time with the other grandparents. In most families there is another set of grandparents, sometimes more with re-marriage. Try to be as diplomatic as possible and communicate with the other grandparents to coordinate visits so the new family are not swamped, and maybe in co-operation with the Mum decide who will do what to help. If you are divorced from your child’s father or mother, try to find it in yourself to make peace if there has been discord and work together as grandparents for the new baby. There are bound to be events that both of you, and potentially new partners, will need to attend. If you sit through the event looking as if you are “sucking a lemon” this will spoil these precious occasions for all concerned; so take a deep breath, smile and try to be gracious. You children will be appreciative and after you take the plunge it will become easier. If you are finding it hard to do this, or let go of past hurt, then seek help externally, don’t act it out within the family. I hope these guidelines will help you enjoy what is one of the greatest privileges – that of being a Grandparent.

E: hello@localcounsellingcentre.co.uk W: www.localcounsellingcentre.co.uk LCC, Suite 2, Venture House, Fifth Avenue, Letchworth, Hertfordshire SG6 2HW Local Counselling Centre  T: 01462 674671

Summer Life Hacks As we come into summer it’s a great time to do some simple ‘Life Hacks’. It’s time to ditch the stodgy meals and opt for colourful salads, the expression is ‘eat a rainbow’ - that means make sure you eat a wide variety of colours, as a general rule the lighter and blander the colour of the food, the worse it is for you so ensure you get creative with your fruit and veg.

Your skin will need a boost in the summer too, there’s no longer the need for heavy protective moisturisers, opt for facial oils (fine for the guys too) and avoid chemical sunscreens which can do more harm than good. For sun protection, cover up! Big pashminas, sunglasses and parasols, film star style-y and for those times when you really must be exposed opt for a more natural suncream such as the excellent one from Green People. If you wear make-up make it light summery and natural, try the lovely lipsticks, mascaras and shadows from NATorigin, vegan and hypoallergenic. Remember too that mineral powders have a natural spf factor - result! Having said all of that, its essential to get some sunshine - many of us are lacking in Vitamin D so we really need some sun. In days of yore Naturopaths such as those based at Champneys in Tring would encourage people who were convalescing to literally sun ‘bathe’ for an hour a day. www.greenpeople.com www.natorigin.co.uk What we really don’t want is to be bitten whether here in Hertfordshire or on holiday. The World Health Organisation have apparently warned that the Zika virus could hit Europe so, for those people who like me are attractive (to insects) it’s really important to protect yourself. I used to be bitten constantly till I found a natural insect repellent called Incognito, it makes you invisible to the mosquitoes and other insects, (the kids love that idea!) It really works and in addition to the spray, roll on and after sun lotion there’s now a room refresher that works for up to three weeks. You can buy online or in supermarkets across Herts, Sainsbury’s even had a special deal recently. Whether you are a fan of natural and eco products, are just starting out on this path or you have your own brand, I’m thrilled to announce that entries are open for the 2016 Janey Loves Platinum Awards; alongside my votes we have some esteemed judges this year including TV and radio presenter Zoe Ball, Dr Marilyn Glenville, singer and presenter Carrie Grant and best-selling author and editor of What Doctors Don’t Tell You, Lynne Mactaggart. We aim to recognise the best in natural organic and eco products but your vote is hugely important too, so you can check out the entries as they come in on www.janeyloves.co.uk and vote for your faves.

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Would you like to see Billy Ocean, Kim Wilde, Heaven 17, The Bay City Rollers, The Human League, Soul II Soul, Paul Carrack and many more … Live on 9th & 10th July for Free?

The Sticks have teamed up with UK Events (the people behind The Flashback Festival) and Steaming Kettle PR and have a pair of camping tickets for the whole weekend (worth £198) for you to Win!!!!!!!!!! Flashback Festival is to be welcomed into the grounds of Rockingham Castle this summer. With a weekend of fantastic music from across the decades there will be something for everyone … legendary artists from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s will be performing live for a Rockingham crowd.

A host of fantastic artists have now been announced such as: Kim Wilde, Bay City Rollers, Soul II Soul, Paul Carrack, Heaven 17 Nick Heywood, Living In A Box,T’Pau Tunde (the voice of the Lighthouse Family), The Real Thing, Dr + The Medics, and 10cc … along with two iconic headliners; Billy Ocean on Saturday and The Human League on Sunday … it doesn’t get better than this!

This is must for music enthusiasts and the atmosphere caters for everyone. By using our many years of experience, we will ensure that Flashback is the “must go to” festival of 2016! There will be themed bars and food stalls catering for all tastes. So bring along your deck chairs and then either sit back and relax or dance the nights away whilst listening to our fabulous artists. To win a pair of Camping tickets for the whole weekend (worth £198) all you have to do is answer the following question: What was the title of the only No1 single Billy Ocean had in the UK? Email your answer together with your name and contact details to thesticks9@gmail.com Closing date: Noon on Friday 24th June. First correct entry drawn will win the camping tickets. There is no cash alternative, usual your publication rules apply and the Editor's decision is final. Rockingham Castle, Rockingham, Leicestershire, LE16 8TH Tickets adults £80 for the weekend or £43 per day www.theflashbackfestival.com Booking line 0845 075 6101

Summer Movie Preview The Nice Guys (3rd June) From Shane Black, director and writer of Iron Man 3 and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang comes his refreshingly original and hystericallooking, buddy cop period piece The Nice guys starring Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling. Plot summary from IMDB.com: A mismatched pair of private eyes investigate the apparent suicide of a fading porn star in 1970s Los Angeles. While the pairing of Crowe and Gosling seems an unlikely and odd one, the trailer for The Nice Guys shows that, while Gosling looks to be the standout performance, their chemistry looks to be both charming and entertaining. The film looks genuinely funny too, with hilarious Black Comedy humour and golden moments of improvisation between the charismatic leads. The setting of late 1970’s LA looks to be portrayed beautifully and best of all, The Nice Guys appears to be an excellent and importantly, original action/comedy. These types of movies are becoming a rarity and deserve our support, so (especially if you’re a fan of the criminally underrated Kiss Kiss Bang Bang) seek this one out.

The Neon Demon (8th July) From the visionary mind of Nicolas Winding Refn comes the seemingly explicit and visually-stunning horror/thriller The Neon Demon starring Elle Fanning. Plot summary from IMDB.com: When aspiring model Jesse moves to Los Angeles, her youth and vitality are devoured by a group of beauty-obsessed women who will take any means necessary to get what she has. Refn has established his distinctive style in Hollywood with the widely acclaimed, gamechanging 2011 movie Drive. However Refn’s follow-up to the excellent Drive, 2013’s Only God Forgives was heavily accused of having style over substance as well as being overly gory and even pretentious. The Neon Demon appears to tick all the Refn boxes. It looks well-acted, intense, gory, visually exquisite and, like Drive, will hopefully have a booming and enhancing soundtrack. There is no doubt that The Neon Demon will be a visual masterstroke. Whether an evenly good plot will accompany its appearance is yet to be seen. While I’m certain it won’t be for the fainthearted, fans of Drive, Black Swan (2010) or any artsy films for that matter, should keep an eye on Refn’s new horror.

www.sonnyetchell.com

Hero Cheese of the Month: Godminster Life at Godminster is governed by a healthy respect for tradition and an enterprising spirit of innovation. You could say that they are bringing tradition upto-date. This applies equally to the manner in which they farm and, subsequently, in determining what they should produce. There have been people living and working the land at Godminster, in Bruton, Somerset, for over 5 centuries. Records show that there has been a dairy farm here for over 100 years. Godminster was certified organic in 1999 and, not long after, they determined that cheddar cheese made the best use of their milk. More recently, following careful research, the focus has expanded towards creating a selection of other quality products through the inclusion of high quality local ingredients and producers. These, in turn, are lovingly prepared into their branded and endorsed goodies. 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 inspect 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. For more information, you can visit their website at www.godminster.com If you would like to taste some of their amazing cheeses, you can visit The Cheese Plate in Buntingford. www.thecheeseplate.co.uk

Oil The fields are starting to turn yellow with rapeseed ready for the season! Virgin olive oil and cold pressed Rapeseed oil is really good for us. It is delicious for roast potatoes & dressings and we should eat more for health reasons. We can now buy cold pressed virgin rapeseed oil and special imported olive oils all over the UK, not because the food industry has made it available, but because enterprising people and farmers have ignored â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and grow, press, bottle & market their own. This is a classic example of how the food industry is failing consumers and why we should turn to our local farmers for the best produce and help build a new, LOCAL, food industry. Virgin cold pressed Rapeseed oil is high in omega 3, and essential for our health. A recent study showed we should consume 10 times the quantity of Omega 3 oil, to Omega 6, found in most oils and foods, like crisps. UK farmers have been growing rape for 40 years and sold via the food industry. It has then been used to make vegetable oil using solvents to extract as much oil as possible. The trouble is, the solvents are difficult to extract at the end of the process, and ruin the end product. Luckily some enterprising farmers, angry by the low price they were being paid for their rape, realised they could make a better return by crushing their own and sell for the same price as a quality Olive oil. An even more interest fact is that local rapeseed oil could have some of the same anti allergenic qualities as local honey, helping hay fever and perhaps many other ailments. This is a classic example of the food industry failing consumers and why we should look local for the best food and drink. The more we communicate and buy, the more farmers are encouraged to grow more, and diversify. Likewise the more we buy the better economies of scale and the cheaper the produce will get. To find your local rapeseed oil producer, or specialist olive oil and buy online we have lots of enterprising farmers in our MarketPlace. To make the delivery charge less of a burden, you can buy a larger quantity and share it with your friends. www.bigbarn.co.uk

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice - Fri 3 Jun Charlie Hubble is a little boy with a very big dream; he wants to be a world-class magician. So, he saves up his pocket money to buy The Big Book of Magic for Trainee Magicians. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Herts Listings Dragonfly Water Shooters - Wed 1 Jun Discover how these pond creatures move and imitate it with a water shooter. : 30-minute workshops. Tickets £2 (buy on the day), Most suitable for ages 5+ The Natural History Museum, The Walter Rothschild Building, Akeman Street, Tring HP23 6AP

Ashridge Estate - Totally Batty Walks - Fri 3 Jun Join us on this night-time walk to learn all about bats. See where they roost and see them swoop by. Discover exciting facts about these amazing creatures and enjoy a walk in the dark listening for their ultrasonic sounds. Ashridge Estate, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamsted HP4 1LX

Zippo’s Circus 2016 ’Celebration’ - Wed 1 to Sun 5 Jun Zippos Circus makes it’s first-ever visit to Stevenage with ‘Celebration’, a pawsome new line-up for 2016 including a talented family of pet cats - comedy and cuteness. Also incredible horsemanship with stunning white heavy horses. Fairlands Valley Park, Stevenage SG2 0BL

St Leonards Village Fete Horse Show & Gymkhana and Dog Show - Sat 4 Jun Celebrate HM the Queen’s 90th Birthday with a traditional country Fete! St Leonards Parish Hall, Jenkins Lane, St Leonards, Tring HP23 6NW

From the Earth Textile Exhibition - Wed 1 to Sun 26 Jun From the Earth is an event which is planned to promote ethical textile practices in the broadest sense, through the use of natural dyes and printing processes, natural fabrics and fibres, with particular reference to those produced in ethical ways. Mardleybury Gallery SG3 6SG

The Comedy Loft - Sat 4 Jun Troy Hawke, Sean Percival, Jojo Smith. The Comedy Loft, Watford WD17 1AW The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club - Sat 4 Jun The Alban Arena, St Albans AL1 3LD

Daisyknots - Felt Bag Keyrings - Wed 1 Jun Does your child enjoy sewing or would like to learn? Come along to Daisyknots half term holiday workshop where we will be making bright and colourful bag keyrings. Station Road, Tring HP23 5NW

Much Hadham Art Society Summer Exhibition - Sat 4 and Sun 5 Jun There is free parking behind the Village hall, and there is easy wheelchair access too. Open Saturday 10am until 5pm and Sunday 10am until 5pm. Much Hadham Village hall SG10 6DQ

Discovery Archery - Wed 1 to Fri 3 Jun Try something different this Half Term and experience the thrill of pulling back a bow and shooting an arrow into the target at The Archery Barn. Enjoy as a family or watch as your children learn a new sport! Celtic Harmony Camp, Brickenden Lane, Hertford SG13 8NY

St Albans Steam and Country Show - Sat 4 and Sun 5 Jun Oaklands College, Hatfield Road, St. Albans AL4 0XR Standon Open Gardens Saturday - Sat 4 Jun Standon is a village in East Hertfordshire with a beautiful High Street and a Grade 1 listed Church. Ralph Sadleir, Chancellor to Elizabeth I lived at Standon Lordship and the garden will be open on that day. High Street, Standon SG11 1LA

Popdance Half Term Camp - Wed 1 Jun If your child loves pop music then they are going to love our Popdance Holiday Camps. For boys and girls aged 5-11, our camps cover the school day - 9.00am to 3.15pm and are jam-packed full of dance, activities All Saints Studios, 156 St Albans Road, St Albans AL4 9LP

The Magnificent Music Hall - Sat 4 Jun The Paper Moon Theatre Company invite you to, once again, step back in time to the glorious and glamorous heyday of British Music Hall, circa 1890’s, a truly golden era. Helming this splendid afternoon of rich entertainment of song dance & magic The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Hayfever - Thu 2 Jun Noel Coward’s famous ‘comedy of manners’ is set in the 1920s. It takes place in the country home of Judith Bliss, a celebrated retired actress, and her unconventional family. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Junior Bike Ride and Run Ride Run - Sun 5 Jun Dust off your bikes, grab your helmets and gather your friends for a fun-filled mad dash to the finish at our 2016 JBR Challenge! If you are over 6, keen to push those pedals in the park and excited to be part of one big family adventure. Aldenham Country Park, Elstree WD6 3BA

Noah’s Ark Golf Day Dyrham Park Country Club - Fri 10 Jun Enjoy a day of golf with Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice at one of London’s exclusive country clubs. Galley Ln, Barnet, EN5 4RA Raymond Burley - Guitar Concert - Sat 11 Jun A programme of works for classical guitar by Scarlatti, Albeniz, Tansman, Barrios and Ayala 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

Cake in the Garden - Sun 5 Jun Visit the beautiful grounds of Grove House whilst enjoying tea and cake. Free parking available. Easily accessible for all. Cakes, plants and other items will be available to buy on the day. Grove House, Waverley Road, St Albans AL3 5QX

Theatre Organ Concert - Sat 11 Jun Michael Woolridge Popular organist from the South Coast plays at St Albans Organ Theatre, St Albans AL1 5PE

Martin Kemp - Tue 7 Jun The Alban Arena, St Albans AL1 3LD Free Business Networking Event - Thu 9 Jun Free networking event with guest speaker Baroness Dorothy Thornhill MBE. Join us and the leaders of Hertfordshire’s business community. This informal event starts at 6.30pm. Faborje, 46 The Parade, Watford WD17 1NA

Ayot St Lawrence Art Show - Sat 11 to Mon 13 Jun Now in its 42nd year. Ayot St. Lawrence "New Church" AL6 9BZ Letchworth Sinfonia Summer Concert - Sun 12 Jun Some stunning music for what we hope will be a stunning summer’s evening. Marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, we will be playing excerpts from Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Letchworth Free Church, Norton Way South, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3HS

Wuthering Heights - Thu 9 Jun Chapterhouse Theatre Company is proud to present Emily Bronte’s classic love story set on the beautiful, mysterious wilderness of the Yorkshire moors. This treasured story of enduring love and passion has thrilled and entranced for generations. The Spotlight Gardens, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE

Musical Sunday Afternoon - Sun 12 Jun Queens Birthday Special Enjoy a musical Sunday Afternoon listening to this fascinating collection of unique self-playing musical instruments whilst we do something special for the Queen’s birthday too. Includes tea and coffee in the interval. St Albans Organ Theatre, St Albans AL1 5PE

Colourful Crafts Club - Thu 9, Thu 16, Thu 23, Thu 30 Jun No need to book, just come along to enjoy exploring colours, textures, shapes and techniques with your little ones... without the clearing up! The Oval Community Centre, Vardon Road, Stevenage SG1 5RD

Colourful Crafts Club - Sun 12, Sun 19, Sun 26 Jun No need to book, just come along to enjoy exploring colours, textures, shapes and techniques with your little ones... without the clearing up! Hampson Park Community Centre, Stevenage SG1 5QU

Knit & Natter - Thu 9 Jun 10.30am - 12.30pm Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just a beginner bring your projects along to Hertford Museum. This is a chance to share ideas and patterns in a comfortable setting. Hertford Museum, Hertford SG14 1DT

London Klezmer Quartet concert - Tue 14 Jun The LKQ brings you Klezmer at its most beguiling and seductive. The subtleties of the original tradition, combined with a kick-thechairs-over ability to party. Admission price includes programme Free parking on site Licensed bar. Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

Music & Laughter - Thu 9 to Sun 12 Jun Let us entertain you with a collection of some of your favourite Music from Broadway and the West End including Rodgers and Hammerstein, Les Miserables, West Side Story, Jesus Christ Superstar and many more. Henderson Hall Abbots Langley WD5 0AR

The Best Of The Eagles - Wed 15 Jun The Complete History Tour 2016 Talon presents a brand-new production of their award winning ‘Best of Eagles’. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Hertford Museum Presents: The Wicked Lady - Sat 18 Jun 7.30 for 8pm screening Don’t miss this exciting cinematic experience at Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain Hertford SG14 1DT

Hertford Charity Day - Sat 18 Jun 09.00 – 17.00 Retailers will offer promotions, giveaways and in-store entertainment in order to raise funds for their chosen charity. Hertford Town Centre

Bioblitz - Sat 18 Jun Drop-in 10.30 - 16.30 Free, suitable for all ages Help us to record the local wildlife around the Museum grounds by taking part in real sampling with experts. The Natural History Museum, The Walter Rothschild Building, Akeman Street, Tring HP23 6AP

Anniversary Abseil - Sat 18 Jun Join us to celebrate Peace Hospice Care’s 25th anniversary by abseiling 170ft down the tallest building in Watford, the Munden View Tower Block. Peace Hospice Care WD17 3PH

Marsworth Steam & Vintage Rally - Sun 19 Jun Fun for all the family, entertainment including funfair, All types of Stalls, Garden Plants, Auto Jumble, Clothes, Bric a Brac. Steam Engine Trailer Rides. Startop Farrm Marsworth Nr Tring HP23 4LL

Mum2Mum Markets - Sat 18 Jun Nearly New Sale, providing an opportunity for parents to sell their baby/childrens items. All goods for sale must be in excellent condition, from 06yrs. Sellers keep 100% of their profits. Sir Frederic Osborn School Herns Lane Welwyn Garden City AL7 2AF

Shenley Village Fete - Sun 19 Jun Shenley Fete is a vibrant local traditional village fete with plenty to offer all the family. Starting at 12 noon the following can be enjoyed: Arena events: include three different displays by the Dog & Duck Show, Birds of a Feather. Harris Lane Playing Field, Harris Lane, Shenley WD7 9EG

Elijah Harpenden Choral Society celebrates 40 years of making music - Sat 18 Jun Experience Mendelssohn’s choral masterpiece as the Harpenden Choral Society celebrates 40 years of making music with this production of Elijah. This concert will be conducted by John Andrews, and feature soloist Sarah Redgwick. The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans AL1 3LD

Rat Pack and Judy - Sun 19 Jun Direct from London’s Leicester Square Theatre comes the UK’s Number 1 tribute show. Now celebrating its 18th record breaking year this fabulous show brings the style and excitement of the Las Vegas heyday to vivid life. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

The Comedy Loft - Sat 18 Jun Keith Farnan, Andrew Bird, Allyson June Smith, Jeff Innocent. The Comedy Loft, Watford WD17 1AW

Carnival at the Castle - Sun 19 Jun12:00 17:00 - Free Entry, Charity Donations Welcome Visit Hertford Castle to get into the community carnival spirit. Dance along to the live acts and watch an array of entertainment perform in the castle grounds arena. Hertford Castle and Grounds Hertford SG14 1HR

Summer at Halls Green charity event - Sat 18 Jun In aid of the Chain of Hope Charity, supporting children with life threatening heart conditions in developing countries, Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery would like to invite you to “Summer at Halls Green” Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery, North Barn, Fairclough Hall Farm, Halls Green SG4 7DP

Alban Street Festival - Sun 19 Jun Celebrating all that is fun and fabulous about St Albans, the festival will be staged on a closed to the traffic St Peter’s Street from 126pm and feature a range of creative output for our residents and visiting guests to take part in and enjoy. St Peters Street, St Albans AL1 3JE

Chipperfield Choral Society Summer Concert - Sat 18 Jun Chipperfield Choral Society will be performing Benedicite by Andrew Carter at our next concert in St Paul’s Church. This lyrical piece was inspired by the Benedicite carvings in York Minster. Chipperfield - St Paul’s Church, The Common, Chipperfield WD4 9BS

Summer Fair - Sun 19 Jun A free family event incorporating craft and charity stalls alongside entertainment from local dance/theatre groups. The event is held in the pedestrianised area of the town centre

and free to visitors so bring along the family. High Street, Waltham Cross EN8 7AN

associated with Michael Jackson. Watersmeet WD3 1EH

Hound of the Baskervilles Outdoor Theatre Thu 23 Jun Chapterhouse theatre are presenting Sherlock Holmes and the Hound of the Baskervilles in the picturesque setting of Highfield Park. Bring a picnic and your best detective skills for an unforgettable evening of mystery, suspense and theatre. Cricket Field, Highfield Park, St Albans AL4 0RE

The Wish Tree Music Festival - Sat 25 Jun A Fantastic outdoor event with music for all tastes to entertain you through the night from rock classics, cool jazz, pop, funk and acoustic sounds. Hot food, snacks and alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks available to buy on the night. Flamstead village school Trowley Hill Road Flamstead St Albans AL3 8DL

A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Thu 23 Jun Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s best-loved romantic comedy. Let yourself be whisked away on a thrilling journey to the most magical of forests and meet star-crossed lovers, playful fairies. Knebworth House, Knebworth SG1 2AX

Lea Singers Singing Festival – Recital by James Gilchrist & Anna Tilbrook - Sat 25 Jun This year’s festival will have a Shakespearean theme, to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. We are delighted that we will be joined by outstanding tenor James Gilchrist, and his accompanist Anna Tilbrook, who grew up in Harpenden. St Nicholas Church, High Street, Harpenden AL5 2TP

The Taming of the Shrew - Thu 23 to Sat 25 Jun It’s all happening over at Baptista’s Jazz Cafe Bar. Love, music, mild peril, banter and bickering, disguises, Elizabethan rude bits and comedy both boisterous and black, here Shakespeare’s tale of two sets of lovers. Kings Langley Community Centre, The Nap Kings Langley WD4 8ET

Choral and orchestral concert - Sat 25 Jun Welwyn Garden City Orchestra and Chorus. Music concert of professional standard, with professionals and amateurs, and soloists. Music to include Elgar ’As Torrents in Summer’ and ’The Banner of St George’. St John’s Church, Monks Rise, Welwyn Garden City AL8 7NF

Give My Regards to Broadway! - Thu 23 Jun The Sele School junior and senior choirs present an evening of songs from the top musicals, including Starlight Express, West Side Story, Joseph, Rent, Hairspray and many more. The Sele School, Welwyn Road, Hertford SG14 2DG

French Market & Friends - Sat 25 Jun A French Market & Friends will be visiting Hoddesdon town centre again this year where visitors will be able to purchase merchandise and food items from around Europe. High Street, Hoddesdon EN8 8TL

Summers Evening Wedding Fair - Thu 23 Jun 17.30 - 21.30. Join us and perhaps enjoy a relaxing drink in the beautiful walled garden whilst listening to live entertainment. Meet over 30 local companies and view two wonderful fashion shows. The Conservatory Luton Hoo Walled Garden LU1 4LF

The Hospice of St Francis Midnight Walk Sat 25 Jun You are invited to our 10th Party Celebration! Get ready to party along our 5 or 10 mile routes and experience our new neon UV Pods and reflective zone. The party kicks off at 9pm. Hemel Hempstead School HP1 1TX

Pygmalion - Fri 24 to Sun 26 Jun "A triumph! What an evening! I knew she’d be all right!" Eliza the squashed cabbage leaf from Covent Garden has won Professor Higgins’s bet for him - but will this stunning creature he has created teach him something he cannot teach. Shaw’s Corner, Ayot St Lawrence, near Welwyn AL6 9BX

Watford Rural Parish Council Summer FunDay - Sat 25 Jun WRPC Summer Fun-Day Fun-Day to raise funds for our chairpersons charity "BOXCLEVA" - Fairground kiddie rides, Bungee Fly, Bouncy Castle, Bucking Bronco, Face Painting, Balloonist, Stalls & Raffle. Bridlington Road, South Oxhey WD19 7SB

King of Pop - The Legend Continues - Sat 25 Jun Showcases the extraordinary talent of an impersonator who has performed in over 350 international shows in 61 different countries and is the only impersonator to have been

The Joy of Marriage - Sat 25 and Sun 26 Jun Celebration of Marriage through the ages with an exhibition of Wedding Dresses & costumes ancient & modern, with accompanying flower

displays in the beautiful setting of St Mary’s Church Hitchin SG5 1HP

ready for a fun packed day. Welwyn Roman Baths AL6 9FG

Decorative salvage fair - Sat 25 and Sun 26 Jun A fantastic mix of Architectural Salvage, Decorative Antiques & Vintage from top dealers. Knebworth House SG1 2AX

A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Wed 29 Jun Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s best-loved romantic comedy. Let yourself be whisked away on a thrilling journey to the most magical of forests and meet star-crossed lovers, playful fairies. The Spotlight Gardens, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE

Flower Festival - Sat 25 and Sun 26 Jun The church will be open throughout the weekend from 10 am until 7pm for visitors to come in and view some magnificent floral displays. St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Reed SG8 8AP

Under Milk Wood - Charity Performance in aid of Oxfam - Thu 30 Jun Come and see this classic production by Dylan Thomas and support Oxfam. Performed by members of the Theatre’s Company of Ten. Bar & raffle. Abbey Theatre, Westminster Lodge, St Albans AL1 2DL

’80s NAAFI Bop’ - Sat 25 Jun An ’80’s NAAFI Bop’ disco to celebrate our Armed Forces on Armed Forces Day. Disco is provided by DJ Bluemark Entertainment. RNA Club, Black Fan Road, (off Mundells) Welwyn Garden City AL7 1HA

Tedesca String Quartet concert - Thu 30 Jun Programme includes:- Haydn: String Quartet Op 71. No.1 Bb Borodin: String Quartet No 2 Mozart: String Quartet No 19 K465 (Dissonance) Admission price includes programme Free parking on site Licensed bar Pre concert dining available for £30. Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

‘Hertfordshire Hidden Heroines- Pop up Puppets!’ - Sat 25 Jun10.30 – 3.30 pm (last entry 3pm) It’s free! Drop in and make a pop up puppet with Kathryn Holt (craft activity leader) inspired by the women featured in our new exhibition ‘Hertfordshire Hidden Heroines’. Hertford Museum, Hertford SG14 1DT

Beds Listings

Meet a Minibeast - Sat 25 Jun With 45minute handling activities at 10.15 and 11.05 Tickets £4 (advanced booking required), Please ring 020 7942 6163: suitable for all ages Celebrate National Insect Week by meeting some tropical minibeasts. The Natural History Museum, The Walter Rothschild Building, Akeman Street, Tring HP23 6AP

Reptile Week with Safari Stu at Mead Open Farm - til Fri 3 Jun Safari Stu is back at Mead Open Farm this May half term with his amazing reptile friends! You might hold a Tarantula, get nose to nose with a Chameleon, pet a Royal Python or stroke a De-Scented Skunk Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH

The Comedy Loft - Sat 25 Jun Adam Bloom, Addy Borgh, Jamalli Maddix, Rich Wilson. The Comedy Loft, Watford WD17 1AW

Train the Troops - til Fri 3 Jun An English Heritage Event - Attention! Right you ‘orrible lot, it’s training time. Become a Home Front hero and be put through your paces at Wrest Park. Fall into step and polish your shoes or it’ll be basic rations for you. Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HR

Maple Lodge Nature Reserve - Open Day Sun 26 Jun This private reserve will be open to the general public for a special Open Day that has been arranged to coincide with National Insect Week, which is organised by the Royal Entomological Society. Maple Lodge Close, Maple Cross, Rickmansworth WD3 9SN

Binocular & Telescope open days - Thu 2, Sat 4 & Sun 5 Jun Impartial & friendly advice on choosing the best binoculars, telescopes & accessories to suit your needs. Take your time comparing the different models & have the chance to try them outdoors. RSPB, The Lodge Shop, Sandy SG19 2DL

Romans Day at Welwyn Roman Baths - Sun 26 Jun The Romans will arrive at Welwyn Roman Baths once again as part of the Welwyn Festival Week. They will be encamped at the back of Welwyn Roman Bath dwelling on Sherrardswood School Field,

Marston Mud - Kids Outdoor Activity - Thu 2 Jun This popular event is back again. Time to

walk. Complete some of the ’50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4’ on the way and collect stickers and scrapbooks when you get back. Booking Not Needed. Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade LU6 2GY

get messy with mud! A walk to the willow huts to ake mud creatures in the trees. Marston Clay is perfect for creating mud faces, monsters, animals … well anything you like. Come and enjoy a squidgy, messy time. Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Forbidden Broadway: Greatest Hits - Mon 6 to Sat 11 Jun Some of the greatest acts from the history of musical theatre will be appearing on the Sharnbrook Mill Theatre stage… but not as you know it! This is your chance to see Cats, Wicked, Les Misérables, Fiddler on the Roof, Annie and much more. Sharnbrook Mill Theatre, Mill Road, Sharnbrook MK44 1NP

East Anglian Regional Handbell Team Concert - Sat 4 Jun East Anglian Regional Handbell Team are celebrating their 10th Anniversary with the final concert of the season Come and listen to over 165 handbells. Bedford Academy, Mile Road, Bedford MK42 9TR Bromham Mill Food and Drink Market - Sat 4 Jun This market is in the lovely setting of Bromham Mill. Have a look at the locally made artisan food and drinks and then have a walk or a cycle or a tea in the Bromham Mill cafe! Bromham Mill, Bromham MK43 8LP

Exotic Animal Day - Sat 11 Jun Petzotix will be at MEGC with their Exotic Animals plus Simon and his Spiders. Get yourself an animal makeover by All Saints face painters. Fun for all the family. Milton Ernest Garden Centre Radwell Road Milton Ernest Bedfordshire MK44 1SH

Sunday Stroll - Sun 5 Jun £1 payable on the day. 10.30am – 12.30pm approx. Join us in the Millennium Country Park for a gentle, guided walk. We’ll mainly be sticking to level, surfaced tracks but some small sections have a slight gradient (up to 1.9). Dress for the weather! Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Manor House String Quartet Evening - Sat 11 Jun The Manor House String Quartet returns to present a classical concert on the theme of ‘Music for a Summer’s Evening’ in the beautiful and romantic setting of The Swiss Garden, Old Warden SG18 8EP

Fly Navy Day - Sun 5 Jun Fly Navy Day at Shuttleworth celebrating some exciting naval acts. Visiting aircraft includes: Skyraider (Kennet Aviation), Seafire 17 (Kennet Aviation), Wasp (Terry Martin). Collection aircraft includes: Hawker Sea Hurricane 1b. The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade SG18 9EP

Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate - STACK-UK National Championships - Sat 11 and Sun 12 Jun An exciting weekend of Sport Kiting at the spectacular Dunstable Downs. Discover competitive kite flying and a world of precision and style! Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade LU6 2GY

The Big Lunch - Sun 5 Jun The Big Lunch is a Road Victims Trust and Pavilion at the Park joint event to encourage community interaction. The aim is to get as many people as possible across the local community together. Bedford Park, Park Avenue, Bedford MK41 7SS

Capability Brown Weekend - Sat 11 and Sun 12 Jun An English Heritage Event - 2016 marks 300 years since the birth of famed garden landscape designer Lancelot ’Capability’ Brown. Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HR Odell Fete and Family Dog Show - Sat 11 Jun A pretty North Bedfordshire Village by the River Ouse near Harrold and Odell Country Park. Attractions - Bouncy Castle, Gift and Bottle Stall, Tombola, White Elephant, side shows. Horsefair Lane, Odell MK43 7AA

Life at Tempsford School - Sun 5 Jun An Exhibition of old photographs and papers associated with Tempsford School from the 1860’s till its closure in 1983. Home baked Cakes and refreshments available in the Tee Room. Stuart Memorial Hall, Church Street Tempsford SG19 2AN

Trains at Trinity Biggleswade - Sat 11 Jun Our bi-annual Model Train and Toy event with model railway layouts and displays from small scale to ’G’ (Garden) scale, vintage toys

Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate - 50 Things Walks - Sun 5 Jun Grab your wellies and join the Rangers for a family

learn about the rare and beautiful orchids that grow in the chalk grassland. Booking essential. Phone: 01582 500920. Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade LU6 2GY

including clockwork, demonstrations, trade stands, refreshments. Trinity Methodist Church, Shortmead Street, Biggleswade SG18 0AP Ailesbury Mausoleum & Crypt - Sun 12 Jun This is a fine example of one of the first mausolea to be built in the country with the earliest parts being built by Thomas Bruce, a descendant of the legendary Robbie! The Mausoleum is in the churchyard of St Mary the Virgin, Church Rd, Maulden MK45 2AU

At Home with Shuttleworth - Sat 18 Jun New for 2016. One of the most exciting aspects of Shuttleworth is being able to get up close to the aircraft and vehicles so this year ‘At Home’ is replacing our traditional evening airshows, and this ‘At Home’ will have a 1940s feel. Shuttleworth SG18 9EP

Pavenham Open Gardens - Sun 12 Jun At least 12 gardens of all shapes/sizes and styles. Wander round and enjoy this beautiful village. Plant sales, Teas, free parking, free roving bus. Steam Train rides, Vintage Car display. All proceeds are donated to Cancer research UK. Bartlemas Farm, Pavenham MK43 7PF

Bedfordshire Country Fair at Wrest Park Sat 18 and Sun 19 Jun All day entertainment which may include birds of prey, working dogs, children’s entertainment as well as arts, crafts, gifts and food marquees. Silsoe MK45 4HR Flitton Potato Race - Sun 19 Jun The traditional race for farm-hands to carry a sack of spuds to win a cash prize has a history going back some 80 years but was recently revitalised to encourage races for the whole family. Flitton & Greenfield Village Hall, Greenfield Road, Flitton MK45 5DR

The Railway Children - Thu 16 Jun An English Heritage Event - Chapterhouse Theatre Company proudly presents The Railway Children, the unforgettable and heart-warming story of adventure and family set in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside. Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HR

Crafts, Cake and a Cuppa - Sun 19 Jun Come along to this well-established craft fair as there’ll be a wide variety of high quality local handmade art and craft items, with many different crafters attending. Tea, coffee and light refreshments available all day. Free admission. Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road Woburn MK17 9QD

Wine and Cheese Tasting - Fri 17 Jun Come along for an evening of wine tasting, with a side helping of cheese of course! An evening of wine tasting, sampling 6 different wines with the aid of a wine expert. Tickets are £15 per person (you must be over 18 years) Rushmere Country Park, Linslade Road, Heath and Reach LU7 0EB

Midsummer Fair - Sun 19 Jun 10.30am – 3pm. A special Farmers’ Market to mark the summer solstice, with more stalls selling local, hand made, fresh produce and tasty treats as well as crafts and more! Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Labels by Joe Sellman-Leava - Fri 17 Jun Worklight Theatre’s award-winning show Labels draws on writer and performer Joe Sellman-Leava’s experiences of being mixed heritage to explore broader issues of racism, immigration and displacement. The Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN

Capability Brown Guided Walks - Tue 21 Jun Guided walks of the beautiful Ampthill Great Park, taking in all of the Capability Brown features in the Park, as part of a series of events being held in Ampthill to celebrate Capability Browns tercentenary. West Car Park, Ampthill Great Park, Woburn Road, Ampthill MK45 2HX

Gary Barlow Tribute - Fri 17 Jun Dan Hadfield returns as the world’s best Gary Barlow tribute and look-alike artiste. Performing all of the classic Gary and Take That hits. Tickets £15 – booking essential. Doors 7.30pm, Show 8pm – 10pm approx. Licensed bar and free parking. Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Antiques Exhibition - Fri 24 and Sat 25 Jun Williams Antiques & Restoration along with Ralph Moss Antiques & Copperplate maps will be holding their showroom open days. There will be Antique furniture, silver, antique

Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate - Outstanding Orchids - Sat 18 Jun Explore Whipsnade Downs with the Ranger Team and

Woburn Parish Church, Park Street, Woburn MK17 9PG

maps, glass, pottery, paintings and collectables. 1 Hampshire Buildings, School Lane, Colmworth. Bedford MK44 2JZ

Willington Dovecote and Stables - Sun 26 JunCome to the Dovecote to have a go at some country crafts. Demonstrations, displays and sales by country people, including embroiderers and lacemakers. Tudor costumes for children to try on. Willington Dovecote and Stables, Willington

Henlow Bridge Lakes Tribute Festival 2016 Fri 24 Jun Join us for a fun and live music packed weekend featuring some of the top tribute acts performing the music of David Bowie, The Beatles, Robbie Williams, Queen, Mick Hucknall and Madonna. Bridge End Road, Henlow SG16 6LN

Take a trip to Indiya - charity curry night Mon 27 Jun This evening is being held in aid of Keech Hospice Care. Alongside fantastic food and company there will also be a raffle. Indiya Restaurant The Broadway Bedford MK40 2TE

Summer Fayre - Sat 25 Jun Craft, bric a brac, cakes, raffle, Tombola, games, books and much more. St Anne Church, Crawley Green Rd Luton LU2 0RB A Midsummers Night’s Dream - Sat 25 Jun Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s’ best loved romantic comedy ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’. Let yourself be whisked away on a thrilling journey to the most magical of forests and meet star crossed lovers, playful fairies. The Swiss Garden, Old Warden SG18 8EP

Bucks Listings Stowe - Capability Found exhibtion - til Fri 10 Jun Visit the gardens in 2016 as we celebrate the life and work of Lancelot ’Capability’ Brown, including talks, walks and an exhibition space. Here you’ll be able to sit and overlook Brown’s masterpiece at Stowe. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

Shillington Village Fete - Sat 25 Jun A wonderful afternoon out for the family. Parsonage Farm, Shilllington

The Beach is Back at Frosts! - til Wed 20 Jul Summer arrives at Frosts Garden Centre in Woburn Sands, the beach is back! It’s time for the children of Milton Keynes to put their flip flops on and grab that bucket and spade. Come rain or shine, the fully undercover beach is the place to be. Newport Road Woburn Sands Milton Keynes MK17 8UE

Meppershall Summer Fair - Sat 25 Jun Bigger and better than ever. World leading stunt plane pilot*, Mark Jefferies, performing at the Meppershall Summer Fair this year. There will be plenty to keep the family entertained all afternoon. The fun starts at 1pm and Entry is Free! Meppershall Village Hall SG17 5LX

Hughenden - Moulding madness - til Sun 5 Jun Kids can learn all about conservation in a new way this May half-term. Help to restore Hughenden’s library ceiling. Create new plaster mouldings from plaster of paris and decorate them gothic style. Hughenden, High Wycombe HP14 4LA

Woburn Abbey Garden Show - Sat 25 and Sun 26 Jun Now in its 7th year, the Woburn Abbey Garden Show is an important diary date for many keen gardeners. Set against the stunning backdrop of Woburn Abbey, ‘The Gardener’s Garden Show’ offers visitors the best location of any show in the UK. Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn MK17 9WA

Sheep Racing & More Half Term Fun! - til Sun 5 Jun The ever popular Sheep Racing* returns to Odds Farm Park from May Half Term! With a specially built mini race track with jumps and bends, eager sheep with miniature jockeys, Sheep Racing is an event not to miss! Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe HP10 0LX

Party In The Park - Sat 25 Jun Live Bands – Disco - Main Arena Events – Competitions for all – Stalls – Full Bar - Hot Food - Children’s Entertainment – Parking Available. Picnics and Gazebo’s welcome. A Fun packed day for all the family!!! Blunham Playing Fields, 36a Barford Road, Blunham MK44 3ND

Boarstall Duck Decoy - Den Building - Wed 1, Sat 4, Sun 5 Jun Try building your own den in our woods with this fun hands-on family activity. Booking Not Needed. Children welcome. Dogs on leads welcome. Boarstall

Summer Concert - Sun 26 Jun Haydn St Cecilia Mass and Symphony No 47. Danesborough Chorus with the Milton Keynes City Orchestra conducted by Ian Smith.

Jacqueline Phillips – Cello. The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Church Lane, Thornborough MK18 2DG

Duck Decoy, Boarstall, near Bicester HP18 9UX Cliveden - Wild Wednesday- Kings and Queens -Wed 1 Jun Mark 350 years of Cliveden on this fun regal adventure. This outdoor trail will involve all things royal to celebrate the Queen’s official June birthday. Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JA

UEFA Women’s Euro 2017 Qualifier – England v Serbia - Sat 4 Jun Mark Sampson’s side will play Serbia (5.30pm KO) in the first match of a double-header in their UEFA Women’s 2017.Wycombe Wanderers, Adams Park Stadium, Hillbottom Road, High Wycombe HP12 4HJ

Make a Seat - Thu 2 Jun Be inspired by our newly refurbished Chair Galleries and create your own miniature chair. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Sat 4 Jun Attitude School of Dance is a local based school that offers fun classes for children and adults who want to take up dance as a hobby, for fun, to socialise and to keep fit. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Michael Lee Live - Thu 2 Jun Acoustic singer & guitarist playing a range of soulful covers (including superb versions of Stevie Wonder’s Superstition & Peter Gabriel’s Sledgehammer) using his looping pedal to great effect. Clayton’s Marlow, 16 Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

60 years of the National Trust at Claydon Sat 4 and Sun 5 Jun Find your hair rollers; get practicing the jive and re-live the 1950s as Claydon celebrates. Join in celebrations with a live band and family games on the terrace, courtesy of Jaques of London. Claydon, Middle Claydon, near Buckingham MK18 2EY

Moore Laughter - Fri 3 Jun After 4 sold out shows, Thanyia Moore takes Moore Laughter on the road. With a line up sure to make your sides split - Aurie Styla (BBC UK Black Comedy), White Yardie (Internet Sensation) & Liam Smith. Hilton Milton Keynes, Timbold Drive, Kents Hill, MK7 6HL

Beauty, Gifts & Treats Fair - Sat 4 Jun Find beauty, unique gifts and treats all under one roof! Various treatments: hand & feet massages, express & full manicures, pedicures, eyebrows, body wraps. Shop for skincare, makeup, fragrances and body & bath. Bucks CC Sports Club, Lower Road, Aylesbury HP21 9DR

Waddesdon Country Show - Sat 4 Jun The show, hosted by Aylesbury Young Farmers club, promises to be a great family day out with lots to see and do, set on the beautiful Waddesdon Estate, with kind permission of Lord and Lady Rothschild. The Bail, Waddesdon Estate, Aylesbury HP18 0JH

Christopher Maltman (baritone) and Joseph Middleton (piano) at Jordans Music Club Summer Festival - Sun 5 Jun Against the background of the First World War dramatic baritone Christopher Maltman sings a beautiful collection of songs by composers who were affected by the war, or who reflect upon the vicissitudes of war in past times. Jubilee Hall, School Lane, Seer Green, Beaconsfield HP9 2QJ

Wendover Choral Society Summer Concert Sat 4 Jun Faure: Cantique de Jean Racine, choir and organ Gluck: Ballet music from Don Juan Faure: Requiem Soprano: Nika Goric Baritone: Angus McPhee Oxford Sinfonietta Conductor: Peter Bassano. St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Wendover HP22 6NL Music for a summer’s evening - Sat 4 Jun Piano recital by Louise Cournarie of the Royal Academy of Music. A wonderful young French musician will perform a recital to include Schubert’s mighty A major sonata, Mozart’s F major sonata, and music by Handel, Bach and Rameau. Christ Church URC, Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

Claydon - Colouring party with Amy-Jane Adams - Sun 5 Jun Pop along to a drop-in session and meet artist/author, Amy-Jane Adams. Help Amy colour in giant copies of her artwork and chat to her about her new book, ’The Country House colouring book’, produced for the National Trust. Claydon, Middle Claydon, near Buckingham MK18 2EY

Slavonic Dvorák! - Sat 4 Jun Starring: • Charles Sewart - Violin • Gillian Secret Violin • Robert Secret - Viola • Peter Mallinson - Viola • Julian Metzger - Cello •

Go Wild! - Sun 5 Jun Join us for an afternoon of fun and games and go wild on the bouncy castle. Face painting, crafts, games and much

One Night Only - Sun 12 Jun An open air musical evening (audience under cover) featuring internationally renowned tenor Wynne Evans (of Go Compare fame) and his baritone brother Mark Llewelyn Evans. Wynne and Mark will be joined by Burnham based Pop Goes the Choir. Hall Barn Old Beaconsfield HP9 2SG

more… Free (a small charge may apply for some activities). Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX Stowe - Toddler Tuesday: Blooms and bees Tue 7 Jun Drop by the cafe for fun toddler activities and meet other families in our local community. Drop by the cafe for fun toddler activities and meet other families in our local community. Stowe, New Inn Farm, Buckingham MK18 5EQ The Comedy of Errors - Wed 8 to Sat 11 Jun Chiltern Shakespeare Company’s Open Air Theatre (audience under cover) featuring one of Shakespeare’s earlier comedies. Staged in the glorious parkland of the Hall Barn Estate, Old Beaconsfield HP9 2SG

Milton Keynes City Orchestra - Sun 12 Jun This concert is a celebration of one of the world’s greatest composers, Russian born Pytor Ilyich Tchaikovsky. We welcome Russian-born Pavel Kolesnikov to play the much-loved Piano Concerto No. 1 in this allTchaikovsky programme. Milton Keynes Theatre, 3 Theatre Walk, Central Milton Keynes MK9 3PX

“Steppin’ Out” - Sat 11 Jun Kathryn Ford School of Dance present their annual show featuring students from baby Ballet through to the adult Tappers!! Showcasing various subjects including Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Commercial and singing. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Classics on the Crick - Sun 12 Jun A one day Charity Classic Car and Bike show in the beautiful Chiltern Hills, near High Wycombe. See a fanatastic and diverse selection of 300400 Classic Cars, Commercial Vehicles, Bikes & Scooters. The Crick, Main Road, Naphill, Near High Wycombe HP14 4SX

Craft and Vintage fair - Sat 11 Jun In the lively Olney Centre, Olney High Street, we present our Craft and Vintage Fair, 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

The Comedy of Errors - Wed 15 to Sat 18 Jun Chiltern Shakespeare Company’s Open Air Theatre (audience under cover) featuring one of Shakespeare’s earlier comedies. Staged in the glorious parkland of the Hall Barn Estate, Old Beaconsfield HP9 2SG The Wedding Singer - Thu 16 to Sat 18 Jun MKAOS It’s 1985 and rock-star wannabe Robbie Hart, who still lives in his grandmother’s basement, is New Jersey’s favourite wedding singer. He’s the life of the party until his fiancée, Linda, leaves him at the altar. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

TC3 in Concert - Sat 11 Jun Ian, Irene and Louise take a break from Taylor’d Country, to bring you a relaxed acoustic concert of their favourite songs. Quality guaranteed. Doors Open: 7.30pm. Enjoy a snifter at the York House bar. York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ

Happy’s Circus - Thu 16 Jun The Big Top is coming to Holtspur! Fantastic event for families with younger children. Holtspur School HP9 1BH

Medieval Life - Sat 11 and Sun 12 Jun Discover various aspects of life in 15th century England. What did people wear, what was it like to wear a knight’s helmet, what did people eat….and are you brave enough to investigate a Medieval loo? Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB

Annual Summer Concert - Sat 18 Jun A fundraising concert at St Lawrence, Broughton, Milton Keynes hosted by the Friends of St Lawrence to raise funds towards the organ restoration. St Lawrence Church, Broughton, Milton Keynes MK10 9AA

The Best of Brass - Sun 12 Jun Amersham Band is delighted to be able to share a stage with the multi-award-winning Brighouse and Rastrick Band, regarded by many as the best and most consistent ’public subscription band’ in the world. The Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE

Buckingham Fire Service Fun Day - Sat 18 Jun Meet members of the Buckingham Fire Service and join them for a day of fun and games on the terrace. Take part in the house trail and see the fire engine up close. Meet members of the Buckingham Fire Service and

Togfest 2016 - Fri 24 and Sat 25 Jun Togfest Music Festival is set in the beautiful grounds of Bradwell Abbey which is the site and remains of a medieval Benedictine Priory and is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Alston Drive, Bradwell Abbey, Milton Keynes MK13 9AP

join them for a day of fun and games. Claydon, Middle Claydon MK18 2EY Golden Music from the Baroque - Sat 18 Jun Part of Music in Quiet Places: A Musical Journey across Aylesbury Vale Starring: • Gillian Secret - Violin • Lucy Bignall - Violin • Robert Secret - Viola • Julian Metzger - Cello • Peter Ward Jones - Harpsichord .The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Mursley MK17 0HP

The Railway Children - Sat 25 Jun Chapterhouse Theatre Company proudly presents The Railway Children, the unforgettable and heart-warming story of adventure and family set in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside. West Wycombe Park High Wycombe HP14 3AJ

Feast Weekend - Sat 18 and Sun 19 Jun This two day festival is a celebration of food, drink and entertainment inspired by ‘The Baron’s Treat’ where Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild would host local families in the grounds for annual garden parties with games, shows and music. Waddesdon Manor HP18 0JH

Stowe Country Fair - Sat 25 and Sun 26 Jun All day entertainment which may include birds of prey, working dogs, children’s entertainment as well as arts, crafts, gifts and food marquees. Stowe, New Inn, Buckingham MK18 5EQ

BoBelles Fayre - Sat 18 Jun Discover a great selection of beautiful Handmade Crafts, Vintage Treasures, Curios, Collectables and More at BoBelles. Be warned, that with over 25 stalls of temptation you’ll be spoilt for choice! All Saints Church Hall, The Causeway, High Street, Marlow SL7 2AA

Salute our Forces - Sat 25 Jun Massed Bands concert with Brackley & District Band joining forces with Towcester Studio Band for an evening of music in support of Armed Forces Day! Special guest soloists are Samantha Buckland, vocal solo and Steve Bailey, cornet solo. Ugland Auditorium, Stowe School, Stowe MK18 5EH

Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival - Sun 19 Jun Dragon Boat racing is an ancient Chinese tradition and the fastest growing water activity in Britain today - as well as the most fun! Up to 16 people paddle each 40’ boat with a drummer at the front beating time. Willen Lake, V10 Brickhill Street, Milton Keynes MK15 0DS

High Wycombe Race for Life 5k - Sun 26 Jun Join us by taking part in our Race for Life 2016 5K event. 5K is an achievable distance for all ages and abilities and you can run, walk or even dance your way around the course. The Rye, Bassetsbury Lane, High Wycombe HP11 1QX

Working Heavy Horse Show - Sun 19 Jun Come and see a range of traditional working heavy horses at our annual show. Watch spectacular arena events and parades. Enjoy demonstrations of traditional farm work such as hay making (weather dependent), horse logging and cultivation. Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB

Claydon Chamber Orchestra - Sun 26 Jun Enjoy an evening of classical delights performed by the Claydon Chamber Orchestra Pieces performed on the night will include Purcell - Overture to Dido Handel - Concerto Grosso Ireland - Downland Suite Holst - Brook Green Suite. Claydon House, Middle Claydon MK18 2EY

Dash for Dad - Sun 19 Jun An event for the whole family this Father’s Day morning, you and your family can take part in either a 1K or 2K fun run and the 5km Dash! West Wycombe Park, West Wycombe HP14 3AJ

The Pirates of Penzance -Thu 30 Jun and Fri 1 Jul Wolverton G&S Society In The Pirates of Penzance, young Frederic has been apprenticed to a band of tender-hearted, pirates until he reaches his 21st year. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Neon Dance Fitness Event - Thu 23 Jun Neon is coming to the Waterside! The hottest fitness party, with live DJ, dancers, glowsticks, live drummer and a stack of health, beauty and fitness stands. And a bar all night, obviously! Arrive from 7pm to soak up the atmosphere. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury HP20 1UG