Sticks March 2015

Issue 28 March 2015

In this edition of The Sticks Exclusive interview with “The Voice” Russell Watson Q & A with Dunstable’s Faye Tozer Our Hero Cheese of the Month Our HR column from Consensus HR BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace – Real Butter Oh Yeah We road test the Land Rover Defender We review Donatello’s in Ampthill And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks

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Welcome to the March 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 Russell Watson Q and A with Dunstable’s Faye Tozer HR Column from Consensus HR Curwens Column Relationship Advice Art Column Car Test – Land Rover Defender Janey Lee Grace – Real Butter Oh Yeah Hero Cheese of the Month Big Barn Food Column Donatello’s Listings – Herts, Beds & Bucks

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Contributors: Janey Lee Grace, Terry Sullivan, Andrew Merritt-Morling, Jo Coker, Sharon Struckman

See you in April!

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

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

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Exclusive Interview with Tenor Russell Watson Russell Watson is an English tenor from Salford, Lancashire who has released singles and albums of both operatic-style and pop songs. The self-styled "People's Tenor" had been singing since he was a child, he never sought a career as a professional singer, but became known after performing at a working men's club. Russell is officially the UK’s best selling classical artist ever and has won four Classical BRITS. He has performed for some of the world’s greatest figures including HM The Queen, the late Pope John Paul II who requested a private audience with Russell at The Vatican, former US President Bill Clinton, The Emperor of Japan, European Prime Ministers, Middle Eastern Sultans and the King of Malaysia.

As Russell brings his “Intimate Evening With” tour to the local area, The Sticks sat down for a chat with Russell about his career.

How was school for you? When I left school at the age of 16, sadly my talents were wasted at school, I spent most of the hours impersonating teachers, clowning around and basically entertaining the fellow pupils in the class, so things like English, Maths and Biology went by the wayside. I would not advise that as a criterion for people going forward in their youth but that was my life. Shortly afterwards the option for me at that time was to go to college which I did, I went to Worsley tech and started on a YTS (Youth Training Scheme) for £25 a week. I was making nuts, bolts and screws and things like that, it was not very glamorous. I went from the YTS, to getting a job in my home town of Irlam at a place called Sabre Repetition and the clue is in the name. It was pretty boring at a lathe all night putting a little piece of metal in one side and it would pop out the other end and it was a full fledged nut. It was the singular most boring job ever devised for a human being in the history of the world.

From there you started sing covers around the North East Clubs, how did that come about? I had been working in the factory about 6 or 7 years and I was doing 12 hour nightshifts, which means you have virtually no life. You go to work at 8 pm and you get home at 8am, you go to bed and get up at 5pm you have your food and you go back into work and it did really feel like a dead end situation I was in. I used to

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take my guitar into work and on the nightshift during what we considered our dinner around 3am I would get my Hofner semi acoustic guitar out and sing Beatles covers to the lads and then we would go back to the lathes after I had finished.

There was always that love of music from an early age, in my teens singing to the lads and so on. As a kid I was a big fan of the Beatles and the Jam too, I kind of missed The Beetles era, the 60’s around the time my Dad was a kid but I think my dad was more in to the Rock and Roll stuff than The Beetles, I grew with a love of The Beetles music and the way it was constructed, and together with a local pal of mine we set up a band called The Crowd and we would get together at weekends and jam out a load of Eagles and Jam and early Paul Weller songs; so that was where my early love of music and performing music live comes from, the little band on the back streets of Salford.

That’s along way from the classical singing you’re doing now? After the time in the factory, I was about 6 or 7 years in and I entered a local talent competition for Piccadilly radio, it was called “Search for a Star” and much to my surprise there was about 400 entrants and even more of a surprise as I was not confident in my ability at that time, that I won the competition and I walked into the factory the next day and I remember the manager Robin stood there and I said “Robin I am leaving now, I have found something else, I’ve got another job” and he went “Really what are you going to do?” I said “I am going to be a singer” and he said “See you next week” and how wrong was he!! And that was when I got my introduction into the working man’s club scene and the pubs in the North West.

Wigan Road working men’s club was where - on that fateful evening, I think it was a dark grey rainy evening in Wigan and I had just done my first spot there and the concert secretary, I think his name was Sid came over to me and said “ I tell you what Russell, you’ve got a smashing voice on you there son, have you ever tried any of that operatic stuff?” I said “No Sid the closest I go with that is probably The Music of the Night from Phantom” He said “I reckon that whotsit by Pavarotti would suit your voice right down t’ground” and of course it was Puccini's Nessun Dorma he meant and of course I went off to learn it parrot fashion. The first time I got up on stage and sung it live - from my prospective now, technically it must have been dreadful but the place I was singing in, they went absolutely crazy and that was the begining of my career.

That must have been out of your comfort zone? It was totally out of my comfort zone yes, I was learning the arias etc. phonetically, I did not understand the languages or, to be fair, the musicality of the pieces and it was in some respects like putting the cart before the horse as I was trying to sing these thing before I actually had the musical know how to be able to do them full justice. It has been 20 years now since that day in Wigan Road and I have worked 5

with some of the finest vocal coaches on the planet since then, and kind of fine tuned things but I did it the opposite way round to what most people do it.

Have you been back to Wigan Road WMC since? Yes I went back quite a while ago, actually I think it was during a TV special and the concert secretary was not there and his name was not Sid. You have sung at a host of sporting events? The first and most prominent was when I was invited to sing at Old Trafford which was the last game of the season, it was the season United won the treble and I have been a Manchester United fan since I was knee high to a grasshopper. I was invited to go down and sing Nessun Dorma on the pitch, bearing in mind at that time the most people I have ever sung to was a few hundred people in small place or back street working men’s clubs so all of a sudden here I am walking out in front of 60,000 people. I remember getting the invite would like you to come down and sing and I rang my Dad who was also very excited and asked if he would like to come with me and he said I would love to. So we went down there, I strolled on to the pitch sang Nessun Dorma and I got an amazing ovation from the fans, my Dad is not a particually emotional man but as I am walking off the pitch you can see my dad at the side of the pitch he looking at me I am looking at him and I can see a little tear in the corner of his eye and I said “Dad you’re not crying are you” and he said “No, I think it is just a bit windy and I got a bit of wind in my eye lad”. One thing I did do that day was half way through the aria I took off my dinner jacket etc and revealed the red shirt of Man Utd and the place erupted. I think every boy dreams of playing for their favourite team and as I am a usless footballer, this is the closest I will ever get to that dream.

See Russell perform in his “Intimate Evening With” tour Tuesday 24 March at Aylesbury Waterside Wednesday 29 April at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable Monday 22 June at Theatre MK

www.the-sticks.co.uk To advertise your event, show, restaurant or business on our website or in our digital magazine Call 07756 274444 Or email thesticks9@gmail.com Prices from £10 per month

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Q and A with Faye Tozer Steps superstar and Dunstable born Faye Tozer stars in a new comedy 69 Shades of Black that promises to leave you wincing and laughing in all the right places!

Q: You’re performing as Christina Black in the comedy stage show 69 Shades of Black. How did this come about and tell us a bit about Christina?

Faye: I enjoy playing comedy roles and I thought this would be a really fun show to do, and something totally different from my more recent theatre jobs. Christina is a successful business woman, the head of an advertising agency, who has taken a shine to her new employee – the hopelessly boring William. She has a hard-nosed exterior and likes to be in control – but she’s definitely not complicated and dark like Christian Grey. Our show is very light-hearted!

Q: Did you read the 50 Shades books? And are you planning on seeing the movie?

Faye: The girls were reading the books (sometimes out loud for a laugh!) during the Ultimate Steps tour between venues, so yes - I am hoping to go and see the movie with my girlfriends.

Q: 69 Shades of Black is the perfect girl’s night out – what do you like to do with your mates when you get the chance to enjoy a girlie evening?

Faye: I love a girly night out! Getting ready together, catching up, putting the world to rights, venting about our hubbies, maybe a show then drinking and dancing the night away!

Q: The show is sassy and saucy – what’s the naughtiest thing you’ve done that you can admit to?!

Faye: The show is very sassy & saucy! I have a lovely collection of sexy lingerie but that's all I'm admitting to!

Q: Are you excited to be touring the country? Are there any towns which you are revisiting – and any which you’ll be coming to for the first time?

Faye: I am excited to get back on the road after a short but well earned break! I have played most of the theatres on this tour - I've been around the theatre circuit for over ten years now and I love it. There are a few Scottish venues that will be new to me but it's always nice to visit somewhere new!

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Q: What do you like to do to keep busy when you are travelling for work?

Faye: When I'm travelling on tour I love to catch up with film and TV series I wouldn't get to see as we work in the evenings. I also take the opportunity to write and be inspired by my surroundings, the people and events you encounter on the road. It can be quite colourful!

Q: You’re well-known for Steps, but your acting career has really taken off over the last ten years. Has theatre always been a love of yours?

Faye: I am best known for my time with Steps but have been performing on the stage since I was 6 years old. I never imagined I would end up in a Pop group! Being in theatre is such a buzz for me and I love the challenge with every new part I take on.

Q: Can you share one or two of your most favourite memories from your time in Steps?

Faye: We are extremely proud of what we achieved in Steps from supporting Britney Spears on her first tour to receiving a Brit Award for Best Touring Band. We travelled the world first class, met movie stars, walked the red carpets and sang at the World Sports Awards in Monaco. Crazy!

Q: You’re a mum to Ben, aged 5 – has motherhood been all you expected?

Faye: I am a proud mummy to Benjamin who is nearly 6! It has been the most wonderful and humbling experience of my life. He changed my whole perspective on the world and I am a better person because of him.

Q: Can you tell me something about yourself that I don’t know?

Faye: I am excited to be presenting my first cabaret show in March and I’ll soon be popping over to Dubai to see Lisa (Steps) and family for a catch up in the sun.

See Faye in 69 Shades of Black Friday 8 May - Grove Theatre, Dunstable Thursday 21 May – Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage

Facebook: www.facebook.com/69shadesuktour Twitter: @shadesofblack15

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10 Most Expensive Employment Tribunal Awards in 2014 £2,341,803.00 - This was the total cost of ten companies’ Employment Tribunal (ET) Awards in 2014. That’s an average of £234,180.30 per employer.

These penalties could have been minimalised – or even totally avoided - if specific HR advice has been sought and acted upon.

Since the introduction of fees, the employment tribunal has become a less common destination for business owners and HR professionals.

Although the number of tribunal claims has fallen by between 70% and 80%, when a case does come to court, the amount of the award can cost the employer dearly.

At Consensus HR, we emphasise the importance of being proactive rather than reactive. “We ensure that our clients are following the law and demonstrating best practice in the easiest, most effective way possible,” explains Matthew.

Employment Tribunals are applicable to all employers. Police forces, local authorities, hospitals and banks were among the organisations that had to pay some of the more expensive awards in 2014.

The most expensive employment tribunal awards of 2014 were: 1. Purple Parking Ltd dismissed drivers over 67 years of age after claiming that its insurance provider would not insure them. It admitted liability for age discrimination and unfair dismissal midway through the drivers’ case, and was ordered to pay more than £700,000 to 20 drivers 2. A former RAF nurse at Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital was awarded £557,039 after bringing a claim for sex discrimination against the Ministry of Defence over her non-promotion. The employment tribunal concluded that the Ministry of Defence’s approach to promotion favoured male officers over female officers.

3. Mrs Konczak, who worked at BAE Systems as a secretary was dismissed. She presented complaints to the employment tribunal alleging sex discrimination, disability discrimination and unfair dismissal. The employment tribunal upheld her claims and awarded her £360,179.

4. A whistle-blowing executive at Sweet (UK) Ltd. was made redundant after making disclosures in a grievance about accounting irregularities. He was awarded £254,611 for unfair dismissal.

5. A welfare officer’s ill-health dismissal was unfair in Monmouthshire County Council. £238,216 was awarded for unfair dismissal and discrimination arising from disability.

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6. The Police Force failed to make reasonable adjustments for an injured officer within the South Wales Police Force. The employment tribunal ordered them to pay £230,215 for disability discrimination to a police officer who was required to retire because his knee injury meant that he was unable to carry out front-line duties. The tribunal found that the police force had not met its duty to make reasonable adjustments because it had failed to consider alternative posts for him.

7. Race discrimination against a long-serving Sikh police officer. A long-serving police officer of Sikh origin successfully claimed that Bedfordshire Police committed race discrimination against him after he was passed over for promotion. He was awarded £209,188.

8. Disciplining of Royal Bank of Scotland employee should have been delayed because of depression. In this case an employment tribunal awarded the former employee with £126,348 over the bank’s handling of allegations that he inappropriately accessed a number of accounts.

9. In this case a Disciplinary procedure was not adapted for a NHS worker who was a kitchen assistant at St Thomas Foundation Trust. This employee had a “very significant” learning disability and was accused of spitting in a colleague’s coffee. The kitchen assistant was awarded £121,863 for unfair dismissal and disability discrimination.

10. Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council mishandled a Disciplinary process for a bipolar council worker. In this case a disabled support worker was awarded £101,183 for the way in which disciplinary allegations over an altercation with a member of the public was handled.

At Consensus HR, we work with our clients to ensure that the correct policies, procedures and contracts are put into place and then acted upon. This ensures that the company: • Operates well • Improves on bottom line profit • Reduces operating costs • Is an employer of choice where the team are rewarded adequately for the work they complete and managed accordingly should the need arise.

“We do not claim this is easy,” says Matthew of Consensus HR “I always say ‘Rome was not built in a day’ and we work with our clients on a continual basis to constantly improve whilst having a return on investment.”

To make sure that your business avoids an expensive Employment Tribunal, contact Matthew on matthew@consensushr.com or call 01462 621423.

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9 Reasons to make a will There is a large percentage of the population who still do not have a legally-binding will.

Given the relatively low cost of having one professionally prepared there is really no excuse.

There are loads of benefits including:1. You get to choose who benefits from your estate (rather than the intestacy rules applying) 2. It ensures your wishes are binding 3. You can ensure the funeral arrangements you want are clear 4. It allows you to have your say about your children 5. It can help safeguard your business 6. It enables you to make minor bequests – including personal items 7. You can choose your own executors 8. You can take advantage of some tax planning, and 9. You can give to charity And on that last note we would like to publicly thank our Hoddesdon Will Aid clients whose generous donations have led to the firm raising over £2,600 for the Will Aid charities during the November 2014 Will Aid campaign.

The firm volunteered time and skills to write Wills for local people, helping these clients secure the future for their loved ones. In return the clients were invited to make a donation to help people in need in the UK and all over the world. This money is shared by nine well-known UK charities including ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, and Save the Children.

Shirley Marsland, Will Aid campaign manager, said: “Curwens LLP have made a very valuable contribution to the success of Will Aid. The participating charities are deeply grateful for the funds raised, which they will be able to put to good use to help people in need in the UK as well as around the world. So far the campaign has raised over £1.2m and as donations are still being received we hope the final total will be nearer £2m.”

The Will Aid scheme is only run once a year – in November. If you would like to make a will in the meantime, please contact our Jeff Dunne on 01992 631461 or email him at jeff.dunne@curwens.co.uk Curwens LLP is your local firm of solicitors offering most areas of legal advice – based in Royston, Hoddesdon, and Enfield.

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Jo Coker Clinical Director at LCC starts our series on relationships As a relationship therapist I am often asked questions about relationships. The top two must be; “what does a great relationship look like”, “what is love”. I have often wished that I had an easy answers for these questions, but they are as you might expect complex issues and so hard to define. When we start our relationships we often do not think of what the future will hold, and concentrate on the rather more trivial aspects of relationships, how attractive we are to each other, sex, weddings, setting up home and so on. We rarely think how we will support each other, perform and love together under the stress and pressure that a long-term relationship brings.

Dr Sue Johnson, author of “The Love Secret”, tells us that in relationships couples get bogged down in the minutia of events and attribute false meaning to them, which often disturbs the balance of the relationship. In fact what really is disturbing us is the threat to our “safe haven of secure love” i.e. our adult attachments. Love and being in a great relationship, she argues, is about being there for our partner no matter what, and creating a safe dependable space that we can return to when the going in life gets tough. It is a “seeking, comforting connection” and it is innate in all of us and is the predictor of a solid relationship.

It is the solid foundation that all the other great benefits of being in a relationship flow from.

I saw this modelled recently by my friends Kate and Fred. This year just after Christmas, my lovely friend, Kate, lost her 3-year battle with terminal breast cancer; we had known each other since being students, our husbands are best friends and our children grew up together. Over the last three years we all watched cancer ravaged my friend, and as the disease took hold of this once Catherine Zeta Jones “look alike”, she physically diminished before our eyes.

However, this dreadful situation did not dampen Kate’s lust for life, love and humour, and over this period we had some sidesplitting moments as we relived our past scrapes and adventures. As Kate became weaker we were privileged to watch the incredible care and tenderness that her husband Fred demonstrated. In every action love and care glowed, whether it was carrying her when she could not walk, cleaning her when she was sick from the maintaining treatment or feeding her when she could not eat. Naturally, he did not always get it right, I vividly remember Kate complaining bitterly that she was wearing red Christmas tights in August when she could no longer dress herself. Fred unlike Kate, has never been a fashion icon! But that aside he was there with her every step of the way providing a safe and comforting space through her journey, until she died surrounded by Fred and her children. In her actions Kate too was Fred’s safe haven, giving him a space where he could share his concerns and fears about the future without her.

Together they demonstrated how unselfish and thoughtful true love and relationships can be, and how rich.

At Kate’s funeral many stories were told and laughed at, many about her wonderful and maddening ways. I was interested to observe that the maddening ones were

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loved and laughed at most, perhaps because perfectionism is unreal. One of the most poignant was by her son who recalled how she was not the best packed lunch maker when he was at school and always the peanut butter would spread over everything else in the pack, which he found exasperating. He then recalled that while on a recent skiing trip his travel has been disrupted by snow. As he settled in for the long cold night at the station in his ski bag, he felt a Tupperware in the bottom of the bag. There was the inevitable packed lunch with peanut butter everywhere! It was he said like a beacon of love across the miles.

So maybe this is a reminder that it is not the small irritants that cause emotional noise in our relationships that we should attend to, it is the solid safe haven of love that lies behind them that defines our relationships and makes them unique and so special. As Fred said to me at Kate’s funeral “see the irritating quirks for what they are, laugh and embrace them, they are the small detail in the wider picture of love”. What a wise man!

The following months will look at issues in relationships and tips for how we can improve our relationships.

If you are having relationship difficulties, why not speak to one of our specialist therapists. Sessions are available from just £15.00. Contact LCC on 01462-674671

Markyate - Holiday Inn will be home for this amazing wedding fayre on Sunday 22nd March. 11am to 4pm. This beautiful venue is just off Junction 9 of the M1, easily accessible to many brides to be and their families. Charmed Wedding Fayres will be showcasing over 20 Bridal specialists, who will be there to give advice and support you for your special day.

Free Entry and Goody bag for each party to take away from the event which includes yet more details of wedding suppliers.

Why not enter our 'Win a Wedding' competition by registering in our prize draw on the day.

Markyate Holiday Inn London Road Markyate Luton Herts AL3 8HH For more details contact pauline@weddingfayres.charmedevents.co.uk www.weddingfayres.charmedevents.co.uk

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Artist Profile: Brenda Kirk This month we are featuring one of our newest artists in the Gallery, Brenda Kirk.

Brenda was always doodling and drawing from a very young age and the subject was almost always horses.

She did "O" level art then after completing a Secretarial Course the following year she worked as a receptionist and discovered that this was not what I wanted to do so Brenda went to Harare Polytechnic to start a 3 year Graphic Art Course. Once she completed the course she got a job in an art studio for a year before travelling to the UK. She did a number of things involving art to keep her hand in. Brenda painted ostrich eggs and exhibited at Hatfield House Art and Craft Show in 1996. She had small jobs designing chalk boards for local pubs and designed greeting cards featuring her character Shaggles, a cartoon sheepdog who she has been drawing since she was in Year 11.

After reading the article in the local media about PS Arts Gallery, she went to the Gallery, a most welcoming place, where she was encouraged to exhibit her art. This got Brenda all ambitious and painting again. Her art is on display in our exhibition area and her art and prints are on sale at very reasonable prices.

Sharon Struckman www.mardleyburygallery.co.uk

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Iconic Land Rover reaches end of line with three special models

As the iconic Land Rover Defender enters its last year has announced these three limited-edition models element of the vehicle’s versatile character.” The Heritage Edition, Adventure Edition and Autobiography by the well-proven 2.2-litre diesel engine.

of production, the company to “celebrate a different three models are labelled Edition and each is powered

The cheapest of the three models is the Heritage Edition, which starts from “around £27,800”. Just 400 examples will be built in three guises: 90 Hard Top, 90 Station Wagon and 110 Station Wagon. It will go on sale in August and features Grasmere Green metallic paintwork, Alaska white roof, silver front bumper and “heritage grille and headlamp surrounds”. The outside look is completed by body coloured steel wheels and logo’d mud flaps. Aluminium bright work has been used inside the cabin, including on the clock and door handles. Perforated leather is used on the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake whilst the seats are wrapped in cloth with vinyl sides and backs. A padded cubby box and floor mats complete the interior look. Graphics containing the ‘HUE 166’ text pays homage to the registration number of the first pre-production Series 1 Land Rover from 1947. It is powered by a 121bhp version of the engine which develops 265lb ft of torque.

The mid-range model is the Adventure Edition, which will be available in August from just £43,995, has been created for those buyers who want true go-anywhere ability. Just 600 vehicles will be built in 90 or 110 Station Wagon formats. It is available in Corris Grey, Yulong White or Phoenix Orange, each with a contrasting gloss black grille, bonnet, roof and rear door. All Adventure models feature 7-inch LED projector headlamps. As its name suggests, this model displays an extreme offroad character, illustrated by its “expedition roof rack, snorkel and rear access 16

ladder” and Goodyear MT/R off-road tyres. Underneath, it is protected by under body and sill protection, including for the sump. Inside, it gets Windsor leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, complemented by a leather-trimmed steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake lever. Bright aluminium trim and bespoke carpets help provide the model with added appeal. The 110 Station Wagon gets the same 121bhp engine as the Heritage Edition, but the smaller 90 Station Wagon gets an uprated 148bhp version which produces 295lb ft of torque.

The flagship Autobiography Edition costs from a hefty £61,845. It will be the first of the three models to go on sale, from April.

It is powered by the same 148bhp and 295lb ft 2.2-litre diesel engine used in the 90 SW Adventure Edition and only comes in the 90 Station Wagon form. Just 80 examples will be built for the UK, and each comes with duo-tone paintwork, LED headlights and 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped in off-road tyres. The upper bodywork, bonnet, grille and headlamp surrounds have been finished in Santorini Black. To help you climb aboard, there are side steps. Privacy glass and a metal filler cap complete the look. Inside Windsor leather upholstery covers much of the cabin including dashboard and roof-lining. The seats feature semi-aniline leather with contrasting stitching.

Nick Rogers, Land Rover Vehicle Line Director, told first4auto: “We wanted to mark the end of Defender production at Solihull with a special edition but coming up with a single identity was impossible, so we developed three very different interpretations of the car to reflect its strength and breadth of character.”

The all-new Defender family will debut in 2016.

Land Rover is allegedly exploring the possibility of continuing production of the existing Defender in an overseas location once UK manufacturing ceases in December. However, whilst low volume production could be maintained, this would be for models sold outside of Europe.

Web: www.first4auto.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/first4auto Twitter: @first4auto

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Real Butter Oh Yeah

If, like Janet Street Porter, you have been eschewing cream and butter for years I hope you’ve seen the news and have rushed out and upped the sales of real butter.

The outspoken journalist declared ‘Cream on my crumble, roasties in beef dripping, the bliss of hot buttered crumpets 'I gave up the most glorious food on earth FOR A LIE' says Janet.

Janet is just one of millions who followed the advice dished out by doctors in the early eighties, we were told that in order to avoid heart disease we must increase our carbs and drastically cut down on fat. It seems we were all sold one big fat lie about fat.

I’ve been banging on about the truth about real food for years, it’s not fat that’s the demon, its sugar, and many of the low fat products that both manufacturers and government guidelines pedalled as ‘healthy’ in fact were highly processed and contained sugars or artificial sweeteners.

It seems the original surveys didn’t even include women, but I’m pleased that one very innovative woman - nutritionist Zoe Harcombe was one of the authors of the report. “Evidence from randomised controlled trials did not support the introduction of dietary fat guidelines in 1977 and 1983” Zoe adds. “None of these trials studied women. Only one of these trials included healthy subjects. The other five were what we call secondary studies, which means they only included men who had already had a heart attack. The death rate across all the studies was 30%, reflecting the fact that one of the single biggest causes of death is already having had a heart attack” The conclusions show that 2,467 males participated in 6 dietary trials: 5 secondary prevention studies and 1 including healthy subjects. There was no randomised controlled trial that had tested government dietary fat recommendations before their introduction.

There’s a great book called ‘Tainted Truth’ by Cynthia Crosson (if you fancy some technical bedtime reading) and one of the main questions it raises is could ‘studies’ be designed to create the ‘results required’ by whoever is funding said study? And me asks the question; was the bad press that real fat and butter got in the 80’s and

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90’s a result of some serious ulterior motives by the manufactures of cheap saturated vegetable fats and oils?

I’ve never liked the taste of emulsion paint, or plastic, so for me, the message is clear, eat real food, cooked in lard, (or coconut oil), porridge oats and a large spoonful of real butter!

Check out the brilliant farmers markets in Herts, I buy the raw butter and milk from St Albans farmers markets and for coconut oil you can’t beat Tiana fair trade organics, you can buy their raw organic coconut oil, coconut goodness (that’s coconut flesh in jar) and coconut butter, great for cooking from Holland and Barrett stores and online at www.tianacoconut.com ______________________________________________________________

If you want great advice on Digestive Health, don’t miss this great seminar in Hertford 19th March; ‘The Digestive Health Solution” educational seminar busts the myth that most digestive illness is medically unexplained by taking you on a journey of scientific discovery towards personalised, effective natural solutions for optimal digestive health.

If you suffer from Stomach cramps, pain, discomfort, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation this could be your road to a natural solution). More info HERE ___________________________________________________________________________

www.the-sticks.co.uk To advertise your event, show, restaurant or business on our website or in our digital magazine Call 07756 274444 Or email thesticks9@gmail.com Prices from £10 per month

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Hero Cheese of the Month -Tunworth Cheese This month we are spotlighting a major award winning soft cheese, Tunworth. “The best camembert in the world” is how it was describe by the magnificent Raymond Blanc.

Tunworth has a long lasting sweet, nutty flavour and a creamy texture with a thin wrinkled rind. This amazing Cheese is made by hand in small batches in a purpose built creamery with pasteurised whole cow’s milk.

They first add specific starter cultures to the warm milk, animal rennet is added and the curd begins to set. After several hours they cut the curds into one inch cubes and place them gently into cheese moulds.

The cheeses are then drained overnight and are dry salted the next day. From the production room they are placed on racks and taken into the ripening room where they grow their white coats.

Hampshire Cheeses is owned by Stacey Hedges and Charlotte Spruce. It was founded in 2005.

Stacey, originally from Sydney Australia, had worked part-time in a cheese shop whilst studying at university and found it inspirational. Twenty years later with an English husband and three young children she found herself living in rural Hampshire and her thoughts returned to that Sydney cheese shop. She began making cheese in her kitchen before it soon became clear that she would need a purpose-built creamery to fulfil her dream. From the start, Randolph Hodgson, owner of Neal's Yard Dairy, gave her tremendous support and advice. He encouraged her to make a soft cow's milk cheese with a delicious depth of flavour covered by a delicate, thin rind.

In May 2006, Hampshire Cheeses moved into its first tiny creamery and in September of the same year, Tunworth became Britain's Supreme Champion Cheese at the British Cheese Awards beating more than 800 other cheeses. It was a truly astonishing result for such a small and young company.

Further success followed in many areas including winning Waitrose's Small Producer of the year and a gold medal in the World Cheese awards.

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

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Amazing survey results? Fresh or washed & bagged lettuce?

Our surveys are supposed to raise awareness to some facets of our crazy food industry. Such as - Farmers on average only get 9p in every ÂŁ1 spent of food in the supermarket and, in the news recently, milk is cheaper than water in some shops.

We thought our latest survey would be as one sided as previous ones and were very surprised with the almost 50/50 results.

We asked: Would you prefer to buy fresh lettuce leaves, grown to organic standards, from a local garden, green house or allotment. Or, for roughly the same price, lettuce from a supermarket that has been commercially grown using pesticides and washed in water containing more chlorine than your local public swimming pool?

YES: local lettuce NO: washed lettuce in bags Yes, the question was asked in a rather biased way but designed to emphasise, what we thought happens when consumers don’t understand where their food comes from.

Very typical in a national food industry where supermarkets separate consumers from producers. The results however show that perhaps we are wrong, and convenience or hate of caterpillars and insects, is more important than quality and supporting local growers. If so what a terrible shame.

A shame because if we consumers continue to prefer convenience over quality more and more crops will be grown to meet these needs. This means crop varieties grown for shelf life not flavour and more use of chemicals in large scale production to reduce cost. And the processor and retailer taking the lion’s share of the retail price.

At BigBarn we would much rather see local production and trading of the hundreds of different types of tasty salad leaves. Many will be chemical free and if freshly picked most will not even need a wash in fresh water. And all the money going back in to the local economy to encourage further food production and your own food community.

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Nestled in the market town of Ampthill, Bedfordshire is Donatello’s Italian Restaurant. Established in 1981 and still run by the same family it is headed now

by Mic Vassallo–Todaro, the restaurant offers more than the average Pizzeria with a vast menu and daily lunchtimes offers and specials board with delicious homemade Italian food,served in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

The Sticks popped along on a Wednesday Lunchtime in February to try out what was on offer.

We ordered a selection of dishes from both the special board and main menu.

Before we had our starters we had Warm Italian bread dosed with olive oil a great way to commence the meal Then for starters we had delicious home made tomato soup - a thick soup well seasoned and served with ample bread and butter and roasted pepper filled with fresh tomato sauce and black olives all topped with mozzarella cheese – well worth the 25 minute wait for it to be cooked to order.

For mains we enjoyed ‘Trinity’ – a tasty and filling risotto with plenty of spinach, prawns and tuna in a garlic and olive oil sauce and homemade meatballs with spaghetti –solid flavoursome meatballs with a rich tomato sauce. As a side order we shared a freshly made mixed salad with a simple oil and vinegar dressing.

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For desserts we had Mic’s homemade Tiramisu made to a secret recipe and probably the best I have ever tasted. Coppa rossa – a delicious mascarpone ice cream on a bed of digestive biscuit crumb with tangy raspberry & blackcurrant sauce was the choice of my colleague .

Donatello’s offers a lunch special: Garlic bread or any side salad Any starter pasta or risotto Filter coffee/Tea £7.45 The Restaurant can cater for 80 people with alfresco dining for up to 50. Rooms available for private functions and there is a car park at the rear. If the meal we had is anything to go by it is definitely well worth a visit!

Lunch 12-2pm Tues-Fri, Dinner 6-11pm Tues-Sat Donatello’s 91 Dunstable Street, Ampthill MK45 2NG (01525 404666) www.donatellospizzeria.co.uk Try the sister restaurant at 204 High St North, Dunstable LU6 1AU (01582 475797) 23

Herts Listings

combines the original hand-pulled prints of established print maker Kim Major-George with connecting poems by the contemporary poet Steve Thorp. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Mr Bickerton and his Birds: An exhibition of photographs - til Sat 28 Mar An exhibition of photographs by celebrated bird enthusiast William Bickerton who produced beautiful images of birds in Hertfordshire and beyond.

Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain SG14 1DT

Chris Shelley Photography Light, Reflections ad Abstraction - Tue 3 to Sat 28 Mar Chris studied at the Royal College of Art and has since spent his life working in photography in one guise or another. His main interests have centred on the natural world, landscapes, plants and wildlife. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Netherlands National Circus - Sun 1 Mar brand new show for 2015 is coming to Stevenage. Fairlands Valley Car Park, Stevenage SG2 0BL

Recycled Fashion - Tue 3 to Thur 12 Mar Why bin it if you can wear it? The ingenious work of pupils from St Christopher School and other local schools. This fashion show in the Main Gallery demonstrates how to create glamour and excitement from recycled material. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Watford Wedding Show - Sun 1 Mar If you are a bride & groom getting married in 2015/16 then you must put this date in your diary. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD17 3JN Blake in Harmony - Sun 1 Mar Hot on the heels of Il Divo and Collabro, Brit-Awardwinning harmonisers Blake are back with a new album, new songs and their most uplifting live show yet. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Regent Music presents Faustus - Tue 3 Mar Nominated in the 2009 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, the Faustus trio are three of the leading lights of their generation: Saul Rose (Waterson:Carthy, Whapweazel), Benji Kirkpatrick (Seth Lakeman Band, Bellowhead) and Paul Sartin (Bellowhead, Belshazzar’s.

Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Barkway Antiques & Vintage Fair - Sun 1 Mar In it’s fifth year, this antiques fair is set in the picturesque village of Barkway in North Hertfordshire. Featuring a range of fabulous stalls with a wide variety of stock from, jewellery to ceramics, curios to clothing.

Barkway Village Hall, Cambridge Road, Barkway SG8 8BS

Room on the Broom - Tue 3 to Thur 5 Mar Based on the book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler “How the cat purred and how the witch grinned As they sat on their broomstick and flew through the wind.” The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Octagon Music Society: Jayson Gillham (piano) - Sun 1 Mar Jayson Gillham’s programme will include music by Chabrier, Dukas, Poulenc, Debussy and Chopin. The venue has excellent acoustics, level access and ample free parking. The Clarendon Muse, Watford Grammar School for Boys, 70 Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD18 7JA

Mr Turner - Wed 4 & Tue 10 Mar Timothy Spall won Cannes Best Actor Award for his portrayal of the great, eccentric, British painter J.M.W. Turner (1775-1851).

Profoundly affected by the death of his father, loved by a housekeeper he takes for granted. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Screaming Blue Murder - Mon 2 & Mon 16 Mar Screaming Blue Murder (or SBM to its friends) pops up at regular fortnightly intervals to bring mirth to the masses. A regular comedy tonic infused with some of the best and brightest comedians on the circuit. Don’t miss out! Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Al Murray - Wed 4 Mar 8pm Twenty years ago Britain’s favourite publican Al Murray, The Pub Landlord, embarked on his one man mission as the King Cnut of Common Sense, holding back a tide of bottled beer and ninny state nonsense. To celebrate this milestone join this icon on his new tour with his brand new show One Man, One Guvnor. Al Murray

Spirit of the Earth: Prints by Kim MajorGeorge - Tue 3 to Thur 26 Mar This thoughtprovoking exhibition of images and words

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plus some you may not have heard for a while, in their latest show for 2015.It’s refreshing that in these days of pre-recorded backing tracks, Magic perform completely live. With five vocals to back up the powerful lead vocal of the dynamic Roger Brown, Magic can recreate all the complex harmonies that are Queen’s trademark recording sound. This, along with two guitars, bass, drums and the brilliant piano and keyboard skills of Dave Chapman, produces a sound that is second to none. While not attempting to emulate Queen visually, Magic creates all the excitement of a Queen live show - not to be missed. Magic are no strangers to the big stage. They headlined a concert in Gorky Park, Moscow (by request of the Russian government) and have played venues in Hong Kong, America, the Middle East and throughout Europe. Closer to home they’ve performed their Magic - A kind of Queen show, twice, at the world famous London Palladium and in countless other theatres and concert halls throughout Britain.

All in all, a background that’s given them, experience to deliver a world class show to remember. Tickets £19.00, £18.00 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

The Pub Landlord: One Man, One Guvnor - 20 years at the lager top, coming soon to Watford Colosseum.

Tickets £26.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Forging Ahead. Art@Gravelly Barn - Thur 5 to Sun 8 Mar The new exhibition by the Ladies Wot Lunch’ The EJD Studio, Gravelly Barn, Gravelly Lane, Braughing SG11 2RD Hertford House Comedy Night - Thur 5 Mar The Comedy night with the fantastic Paul McCaffrey headlining and James Alderson supporting. Hosted by James Redmond. 1 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1DA Let’s Twist Again - Fri 6 Mar 8pm Love 50’s and 60’s music? Then you will love ‘Let’s Twist Again’. Now it it’s fourth successive year and wowing audiences everywhere it plays! Starring BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing lead singer Chris Madin with a full company of critically acclaimed artistes and musicians, the show combines fun and laughter with the greatest hit’s of Elvis, Dusty, Buddy, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Lulu, Sandie Shaw and many more, to ensure a brilliant night out is had by all!Join us in our American Diner to re-live the fabulous songs of a magical Rock ‘n’ Roll era. Together with your host with the most, ’ Big’ Tony Tremendo, our stunning live band The Twisters, and some of the highest rated performers in the land, you’ll be ready to twist again! Tickets £21.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Fat Man (Or Orpheus is doing stand-up for the gods) - Sat 7 Mar This piece is a sharp new take on a classic Greek myth. It’s a bitterly funny story of love, loss and eating your way out of grief. As the audience are transformed into the gods of legend, will Orpheus ever escape his past? Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE Stay and Play Saturdays at Hertford Museum - Sat 7 Mar The Andrews Room at Hertford Museum will be open for families to enjoy a free play session. Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT

Ash Dykes Breaking Mongolia: The Lonely Snow Leopard - Fri 6 Mar From the Altai Mountains, across the Gobi Desert to the Mongolian Steppe, Ash Dykes walked Mongolia, solo, and set a new world record.

The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

An Evening of Jazz Music - Sat 7 Mar An evening of jazz from the National Youth Jazz Orchestra’s (NYJO) Academy Big Band. NYJO is one of Britain’s longest-running ensembles for young people under 25 playing big-band jazz. The SandPit Theatre, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX

Secret Love - The Life and Music of Doris Day - Sat 7 Mar A Sentimental Journey through the Life and Music of Doris Day. To celebrate the 90th birthday of Hollywood icon Doris Day, acclaimed jazz singer & West End actress Claudia Morris performs this critically acclaimed show dedicated to her. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Ave, Radlett WD7 8HL

Seann Walsh - Sat 7 Mar The Lie-In King is back! Seann Walsh has managed to search deep inside himself to find the inner strength to get out of bed and all the way into his support act’s car, parked just outside his flat just for you. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG13 1PS

Magic - A Kind Of Queen - Sat 7 Mar 8pm Magic, the first and still the best tribute to Queen, perform all of Queen’s greatest hits

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Comedy Club - Sat 7 Mar Another anarchic evening of great comedy with Duncan Oakley and Jeremy O’Donnell, hosted by Paul B Edwards. Licensed bar. Duncan Oakley has been a musician since the age of six, has performed on the UK comedy circuit since 1999. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

‘Everywhere’ and many more, take you on a nostalgic evening of breathtakingly outstanding musicianship; and all performed in the context where the songs work best – a live stage. Golden Circle Tickets: £33.50, Tickets: £23.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Chipperfield Choral Society Spring Concert Elijah - Sat 7 Mar Chipperfield Choral Society performs the oratorio ’Elijah’ by Mendelssohn with the wonderful Soprano Mary Bevan. She has performed regularly with English National Opera and is one of Britain’s top emerging artists. St John’s Church, Station Road, Boxmoor, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1JY

Art & Crafts for adults - Wed 11 Mar 10am – 12.30pm OR 7pm – 9.30pm Be inspired by an introduction from our Curator to the amazing world of patterns within our collections. Try your hand at designing your own and making a lino cut print. Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT Snooker Legends - Wed 11 Mar 7pm Featuring Jimmy White & Stephen Hendry VIP: £75 Standard: £25.The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

St Albans Country Market - Sun 8 Mar Local food cooperative. Selling cakes, biscuits, scones, pies and preserves etc as well as handmade items such as hats, cards and aprons. All produce is home made fresh, and all cooks hold level 2 hygiene and food safety certificates. St Albans Hertfordshire AL1 3DP

The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) - Wed 11 Mar Written and directed by Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor They’ve skewered history, the Bible and the world’s most celebrated playwright, now the Reduced Shakespeare Company tackles the subject it was born to reduce. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Bishop’s Stortford Antiques and Collectables Fair - Sun 8 Mar 9.30am - 4.00pm. Bishop’s Stortford Football Club, Woodside Park, Dunmow Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 5RG Pennyfarthing Antiques & Collectors Fair Sun 8 Mar Pennyfarthing Fayres presents a quality range of 70 stalls, including Porcelain, Jewellery, Glass, Small Furniture and much more. Great food, free parking. Ideal for finding that individual gift. Wyllyotts Theatre Darkes Lane, Potters Bar EN6 2HN

The Mirror of Reality: Flemish Painting – Van Eyck to Brueghel - Thur 12 Mar Digital Lecture by Clare Ford- Willie The work of major painters of religious art, portraiture and landscape will be studied, including Rogier van der Weyden, Jan van Eyck, Petrus Christus, Hugo van der Goes and Memling.

The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac - Sun 8 Mar 7.30pm Having performed 500 major concert shows to over a half a million fans around the world since they formed over a decade ago, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac return to Watford Colosseum to present a spectacular new stage production celebrating the music of the legendary rock supergroup Fleetwood Mac. Their new show will showcase and celebrate in meticulous note-for-note detail, all the classic hits from one of the most outstanding and enduring catalogues in the history of recorded music, and a legacy of blues, rock & pop classics that made Fleetwood Mac the icons of the music industry they are today. Replicating perfectly the power and subtlety of Fleetwood Mac at their brilliant best, let timeless classics such as ‘Black Magic Woman’, ‘Albatross’, ‘Go Your Own Way’, ‘Dreams’, ‘Gypsy’ ‘Say You Love Me’, ‘Sara’, ‘Oh Diane’, ‘Little Lies’,

Anton And Erin – That’s Entertainment - Fri 12 Mar 7.30pm Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag announce their return with a spectacular new show, ‘That’s Entertainment’! This dazzling new production for 2015 featuring sensational choreography, sassy tunes and sparkling costumes, perfectly showcases the talents of the undisputed King and Queen of the ballroom. Join the UK’s favourite dance couple as they combine the sophisticated elegance of their quick step, foxtrot, tango and waltz with the showbiz razzmatazz of hits and steps from stage and screen. Featuring classic hits: That’s Entertainment, True Love, Make ‘Em Laugh, Steppin’ Out with my Baby There’s No Business Like Show Business.

Anton du Beke & Erin Boag, Richard Balcombe- conductor, Lance Ellington star vocalist, Six world class Ensemble Dancers

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Watford Philharmonic Society’s Spring Concert- Sat 14 Mar Watford Philharmonic Society welcomes back Lara Melda, winner of the 2010 BBC Young Musician of the Year competition, to play the Schumann Piano Concerto. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD17 3JN

plus the full 25-piece London Concert Orchestra live on stage. Tickets £44.50, £34.50, £24.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk The Elvis Years - Fri 13 Mar 8pm You ready to rock ’n’ roll? An outstanding concert production of the West End musical Jailhouse Rock featuring original star Mario Kombou and his incredible band led by legendary producer, musical director and Ivor Novello award-winner David Mackay, in the UK’s number one Elvis show The Elvis Years.

"Images of the King" World Champion Mario delivers a tour de force performance in this spectacular show packed with over 50 greatest hits, from the early days of Sun Studios and That’s Alright Mama, through the Hollywood years of GI Blues and It’s Now or Never, the ‘68 TV special with All Shook Up, culminating in the legendary Las Vegas concert, with In The Ghetto, Suspicious Minds and American Trilogy. Tickets: £21.50, £19.00 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Gloria – Vivaldi & Requiem - Faure- Sat 14 Mar Concert given by Holy Saviour Church Choir and The Radcliffe Singers, with The Gainsford Ensemble, conducted by Trevor Hughes. Holy Saviour Church, Radcliffe Road, Hitchin SG5 1QG Watford’s Got Talent- Sat 14 Mar A charity evening to showcase local talent. Featuring local bands Noisy Neighbours and Rocking the Boat, solo singer Melanie Mack and other talented performers. Refreshments will be available .Cassiobury Infants School WD17 3PE

Vienna Festival Ballet 35th Anniversary Gala - Sat 14 Mar Vienna Festival Ballet celebrate with their 35th Anniversary Gala. They are proud to present highlights from the world’s most beloved Tchaikovsky ballets which have featured in their repertoire over the past 35 years. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

La Traviata - Sun 15 Mar 7.30pm Opera & Ballet International proudly present an Ellen Kent Production The Chisinau National Opera and Philharmonic. Back by public demand... the love story that gripped Paris. A tragic tale of searing passion and memorable music, La Traviata is Verdi’s outstanding interpretation of one of the most popular love stories of the 19th century, La Dame aux Camelias. Based on a true story, it tells of the passionate loves and life of the consumptive courtesan, Violetta. There are many echoes of Verdi’s own life in Traviata and he threw himself into the music. The highlights include the Brindisi, the best known drinking song in opera, the duet Un Di Felice and Violetta’s haunting aria Addio Del Passato.

This magnificent production boasts sumptuous sets and costumes. Tickets £35.00, £31.00, £24.00 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Isabel Hospice Firewalk - Sat 14 Mar Take on the amazing challenge of a Firewalk to raise funds for the local charity Isabel Hospice!

Walk barefoot over red hot coals burning at over 1200ºF, the ultimate test of mind over matter. Sherrardswood School, Lockleys, Welwyn AL6 0BJ

Bookstory - Learn to love your shelf - Sun 15 Mar Bookstory is a tiny puppet musical with big ideas. Suitable for age 7+, it uses songs, puppetry & dynamic performance to tell the story in the Digital Age. By Monstro Theatre Co. www.monstro.uk Trestle Theatre Company AL4 0JQ

Model Railway Day at Hertford Museum- Sat 14 Mar 10.30 am – 3.30 pm A spring time Model Railway Day for all the family to enjoy!

Free, just drop in, donations welcome. Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT

Abbots Langley Orchestra Spring Concert with soloist Reinoud Ford and conducted by Scott Wilson - Sun 15 Mar Bach, arranged Walton - Sheep may safely Graze Dvorak ’Cello concerto Tchaikovsky - Symphony No. 5 This concert will feature soloist Reinoud Ford.

Tina May – Fri 13 Mar Tina May, the highly acclaimed English international jazz vocalist and widely-travelled recording artiste, accompanied by piano and bass, will sing for Langa Pre-School Trust in this charity event.

Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

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Reinoud enjoys a varied career. St Lawrence Church High Street Abbots Langley WD5 0AS

Towers with unscripted madcap mayhem guaranteed! Enter the world of the snobbish, manic Basil; his domineering wife Sybil; and their hopeless language-challenged waiter, Manuel. Be one of the steady stream of bemused guests trying to make Manuel understand what it is you want; ask for an ‘ice bucket’ and you may just be presented with a ‘nice bucket’; a simple procedure like opening a bottle of wine can become a huge drama, and maybe during all this, you might get some service – Faulty style of course.£40.00 per person Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Dinosaur Zoo - Mon 16 to Wed 18 Mar Direct from the West End, Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before! From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, observe and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Radlett Music Club : Krysia Osostowicz Violin and Daniel Tong - Piano - Tue 17 Mar Krysia and Daniel have teamed up to perform a series of concerts called “Beethoven Plus”.

The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Original Hogwarts Express Locomotive arrives at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - Thur 19 Mar The Making of Harry Potter will unveil a 20,000ft2 expansion, including the original Hogwarts Express steam engine and a recreation of Platform 9 ¾. Warner Bros.

Studio Tour London Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden WD25 7LR

Pushing Print: The BBH Print Society Tue17 to Fri 27 Mar Over 300 framed and unframed prints using traditional hand-pulled methods from the highly experienced printmakers of the BBH Print Society.

Collagraph, multi coloured rubs, etching, screen printing, linocut, Japanese wood.

Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

The Platters - Fri 20 Mar 8pm Who can forget Only You and The Great Pretender! Early rock’n’roll pioneers The Platters had Top 40 Billboard singles and 4 Number Ones between 1955 and 1967. They recorded just under 400 songs, sold well over 100 million records, performed in more than 91 countries and received more than 250 awards worldwide.

They were inducted into the Rock’n’Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and 2014 marks the 60th anniversary of their international debut with ‘Only You’. Tickets £25.00, £22.00 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

The Honey Man -Tue 17 Mar “Maybe colony collapse and credit crunch and climate change is all one and the same thing!” Honey Man is an ageing West Indian recluse, trying to save his dying bees in a derelict cottage on the edge of rural England. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE Friday Night Is Music Night – Swashbucklers Wed 18 Mar 7.30pm ‘It’s cutlasses now men!’ Friday Night Is Music Night presents an evening of music composed for the dashing swordsmen of the silver screen, the swashbucklers. With music from classic adventures, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Sea Hawk, The Adventures of Robin Hood, King Arthur and the knights of the Round Table and many more. With the BBC Concert Orchestra and special guests. Tickets £27.50, £25.00, £22.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

The Wall of Floyds – In The Flesh Tour - Sat 21 Mar 7.30pm Come and enjoy a night to remember with a fantastic show from The Wall of Floyd live at Watford Colosseum.

Their commitment, skill and experience have enabled them to put together a two and a half hour delight that showcases the very best of Pink Floyd. From the early years of Syd Barrett that started Floyd on their amazing journey through albums such as Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You were Here and including the re-released Division Bell, all the iconic hits are here plus a few less well known numbers that when included in one show create a deeper and more varied example of the wonderful sound of Pink Floyd. Amazing music and vocals covering all Pink Floyds iconic hits combined with a stunning light show make this a memorable evening and an

Faulty Towers Dining Experience - Wed 18 Mar 8pm featuring Basil, Sybil and Manuel in a ‘two-hour eat, drink and laugh sensation’ (Daily Telegraph). The show starts as the audience wait to be seated for their three-course meal and then hurtles along into the world of the BBC comedy series Fawlty

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

opportunity to experience a truly great part of British rock music. Tickets £22.50, £19.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Michael Harvey Piano Recital - Sun 22 Mar A rare opportunity to enjoy piano classics with an entertaining flair! Hertfordshire based concert pianist Michael Harvey will be performing works by Beethoven, Bach/Kempff, Glinka/Balakirev, Chopin, Liszt and Horowitz.

The Ark Theatre, Borehamwood WD6 1WA

The Ingenious Gentleman - Sat 21 Mar Inspired by Don Quixote’s wanderings, two feisty senoritas and a downtrodden Englishman embark on a journey through Spain, taking on one of the most accomplished works of fiction ever written.

Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

New Hope 25th Birthday Service - Mon 23 Mar The service will honour the people that make New Hope what it is, looking back over the past 25 years and also to the future. St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Watford WD18 0EG

Funeral For A Friend @ the Forum Hertfordshire - Sat 21 Mar As Funeral For A Friend wrap up their current headline UK tour this week. Forum Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield AL10 9AB

The Call of Cthulhu - Tue 24 Mar Adapted from the classic tale of H.P. Lovecraft. Based on the original story from 1926, The Call of Cthulhu re-creates the horror of Lovecraft’s science fiction terror. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Spring Concert - Sat 21 Mar The North Herts Guild of Singers will be performing the greatly loved Mozart Requiem and a lesser know choral work by Thomas Linley, Let God Arise.

Linley died at a young age but he did meet Mozart who remarked that he was a "true genius". Coptic Church Centre, Broadhall Way, Stevenage SG2 8NP

Pride - Wed 25 Mar This true story demonstrates what it means to be compassionate, to overcome opposition and face common enemies. In 1984, in Thatcher’s Britain, gays are threatened and the miners are on strike following pit closures. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Classical Concert for Orchestra and Chorus Sat 21 Mar The Welwyn Garden City Chorus and Orchestra will perform Rossini’s Stabat Mater, with soprano Jacqueline Dias, tenor John Pierce, mezzo-soprano Sian Millett, baritone Leandros Taliotis. St John Church, Monks Rise, Welwyn Garden City AL8 7NF

Circus Zyair -Thur 26 to Sun 29 Mar Highenergy spectacle fills the big top as Circus Zyair presents a varied show beneath the big top. A ragtag band of clowns, acrobats and jugglers ply their distinctive talents, before fearless daredevils brave the high wire and wheel of death. Blackbirds Moor Station Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1NP

The Sounds of Simon - Sat 21 Mar A tribute to Simon and Garfunkel: All the Hits 19571987. Wallow in nostalgia and enjoy some great sounds with this terrific tribute to the wonderful music of Simon and Garfunkel.

Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Mick Huton Quartet - Thur 26 Mar Mick Hutton - bass, Iain Ballamy - saxes, Ross Stanley - piano, Paul Robinson – drums Mick Hutton has been active on the British jazz scene for over thirty years and has appeared alongside an extremely diverse range of musicians. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Dinosaur Zoo - Sun 22 Mar 11am and 2pm Dare to get up close and personal! Direct from the West End, Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before! From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, observe and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show .But watch out. Not all of these ravenous reptiles are as tame as they seem!

Join us after the show for a ‘meet & greet with the dinosaurs’. A tyrannosauric treat for all ages 3+. Running Time: 50 minutes no interval. Tickets £13.50 Watford Colosseum,

Omid Djalili – Iranalamadingdong - Thur 26 Mar Omid Djalili is back on tour with a new show, Iranalamadingdong, following a sell-out four week West-End residency and a sold-out season at the Edinburgh Festival. A firm favourite with his legendary performances, Omid’s stand-up awards include; ’Time Out Award’ and ‘EMMA Award’ for Best Stand Up

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life before your very eyes. Fairytale characters abound alongside a King, a Queen, Good and Evil Fairies, Fairies of Gold, Silver, Diamonds and Sapphire plus the inevitable handsome Prince, all weave their magic around Princess Aurora, the Sleeping Beauty.

A story lovingly repeated throughout generations but never before performed so magnificently as with this colourful spectacle of Russia’s finest. Moscow Ballet - La Classique. Tickets £24.00, £22.00 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

and nominated for the ‘South Bank Award’ Tickets £24.00 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Gina Yashere - Fri 27 Mar 8pm Multi-award winning Gina Yashere is back in the UK with her biggest tour to date! A former lift engineer, Gina made her comedy debut at the Edinburgh Festival in 1996 and went on to sell out shows across the world. She has appeared on various American TV shows such as The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Def Comedy Jam, The Rosie O’ Donnell show, as well as being a staple on The Lenny Henry Show, Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo, here in the UK. After rapturously received shows at The Underbelly Festival this summer, she is back with her new show and a couple of classic stories. From her disappointment at being diagnosed with sleep apnoea despite losing over 5 stone in weight, to being coughed on, stared at and followed in China, to finding herself in a brothel in Singapore, Gina has plenty of stories to tell! Age Guidance 15+ Tickets £18.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

How The Koala Learnt To Hug - Sat 28 Mar Based on the best-selling book by Steven Lee and written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, How The Koala Learnt To Hug is a charming tale about the magic of family and the importance of a nice, warm hug. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE Easter Eggstravaganza - Sat 28 Mar to Sun 19 Apr A choc-o-bloc programme of eggciting Easer fun! Easter Egg Hunt with chocolate treat and Bunny Hunt with prize plus Easter themed shows including the Bunny Hop! With farmyard animals, adventure play, fun fair rides, JCB Young Drivers Zone.

Willows Activity Farm. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF

Letchworth And Baldock Gang Show - Fri 27 & Sat 28 Mar All tickets £7.00 each. gangshow.ticketsource.co.uk Tuck shop/ refreshment stall in the auditorium, Licensed bar in an adjacent room. St Francis College Theatre SG6 3PJ

The Billy Joel Songbook performed by Elio Pace - Sat 28 Mar performed by Elio Pace and his band’ Elio Pace delivers this sensational tour celebrating the phenomenal music of Billy Joel. Featuring the massive hits, Uptown Girl, Just The Way You Are and My Life. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Jeremy Hardy - Fri 27 Mar Jeremy Hardy begins his 4th decade as a stand-up this year.

That’s a more dramatic way of saying he started 31 years ago and, without a lottery win, probably has at least another 31 years to go. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Concert by the Lea Singers - Mozart Requiem & Bach Motets - Sat 28 Mar The Mozart Requiem is one of the highlights of the choral repertoire. The Lea Singers under their conductor Benjamin Goodson will perform the work from memory to convey its full drama.

St Nicholas Church, High Street, Harpenden AL5 2TP

Lucy Porter - Me Time- Fri 27 Mar Finding modern life a bit difficult? Maybe you were born in the wrong era? In this show Lucy tries to find her rightful place in history. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE Puss In Boots - Sat 28 Mar A show by Marcello Chiarenza Adapted and performed by Patrick Lynch Music by Carlo ’Cialdo’ Capelli Would you trust a talking cat? The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Hertford Choral Society- Spring Concert- Sat 28 Mar Brahms German Requiem, Academic Festival Overture, Schubert Stabat Mater.

With Chameleon Arts Orchestra, Claire Seaton, soprano, and Gareth Brynmor John, baritone. All Saints Church Hertford SG13 8AE

Sleeping Beauty – Moscow Ballet - Sat 28 Mar 7.30pm Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous music fills the air and wondrous characters come to

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New Life New Hope Concert- Sat 28 Mar Adoramus acclaimed Christian Choir and Orchestra, Conductor: David Hooke, Leader: John Smart presents their Easter Concert. Our compere David Buckley will introduce a special blend of orchestral and choral music to celebrate Easter. The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans AL1 3LD

Early Spring Exhibition - Sun 1, Tue 3 to Sun 8, Tue 10 to Sun 15, Tue 17 to Sun 22 Mar Our next exhibition in our converted Grade II Listed Barn Our opening hours are from 11a.m. to 4.30p.m daily. Every Tuesday to Sunday inclusive (closed Mondays). Wood End Gallery, Wood End Lane, Pertenhall MK44 2AS

Spring Wedding Exhibition at Hertford Castle - Sun 29 Mar 11.00 – 15.00 Free Entry Visit Hertford Castle for an array of inspiration under one Royal roof. The Castle will host photographers, bridal wear, florists, jewellers and many other exhibitor stalls.

Hertford Castle SG14 1HR

Learning Lunchtime Talk - The Bedford Highlanders - Mon 2 Mar The Bedford Highlanders Regiment Richard Galley talks about the Scottish soldiers who trained at Bedford in WW1. Free talk, no booking required, 11am-12pm. Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, MK43 0PS

A Festal Flourish - Sun 29 Mar A Concert with Trevor Hughes - organ and keyboard and Gillian Hughes – clarinet, in celebration of the the 150th anniversary of Holy Saviour Church, including music by Elgar, Parry, Stanford, Bach, Mozart, Karg-Elert, and Jongen, among others. Holy Saviour Church, Radcliffe Road, Hitchin SG5 1QG

Binocular & telescope open day - Thu 5 Mar 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. There will be a wide range available to test and buy. RSPB, The Lodge Shop, Sandy SG19 2DL

Gervase Phinn - Mon 30 Mar Gervase Phinn has been touring theatres across the country for over 10 years now as a hilarious raconteur. The best-selling and award winning author, Radio and TV personality, really is at his best and most exciting in front of a live audience. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Sutton School’s Super Shopping & Pamper Night - Fri 6 Mar 7.00 – 9.30pm at Sutton VA Lower School. The night is being organised by Friends of Sutton Lower School (FOSS), whose aim is to support the school and enhance the children’s learning. Sutton VA Lower School, Sutton SG19 2NE

Edna Eckett - Painting with Passion - Tue 31 Mar to Thur 30 Apr Edna’s vivid, semiabstract style reflects her passion for art and life. Seascapes from her travels, churches from her rambles and people from her everyday comings and goings contribute to Edna’s remarkable mixed-media paintings.

Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

A Trip Into The Trust Archives- Fri 6 Mar The Harpur Trust or Bedford charity began in the 16th century and has provided education and alms ever since. The Trust continues to be important to the town of Bedford.

Bedfordshire & Luton Archives Service, Riverside Building, Borough Hall, Bedford MK42 9AP Four Different Styles Art Exhibition -Sat 7 to Sat 14 Mar The title, ‘Four Different Styles’ reflects the different media used: the landscape oils concentrate on the River Ouse environment with particular study of the water surface. 101 Castle Road, Bedford MK40 3QP

Beds Listings Lambing is Back at Mead Open Farm! - til Mon 13 Apr The cute lambs are back at Mead Open Farm! Meet all the newborns in the Lamb Nursery and help the farmers bottle feed the older lambs. Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH

March Open day... Mum’s the Word - Sun 8 Mar Please pop along for refreshments, bargains in the bazaar and pet shed (for 2nd hand pet items) and our HULA dog parade of the dogs looking for homes. Quizzes and family fun too. Glebe Farm, Salford Road MK17 8HZ

Eagle Gallery - Mon 2 to Thu 5 Mar New exhibition by all members, paintings, prints, textiles, ceramics, sculptures and more. 101 Castle Road, Bedford MK40 3QP

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2015 Cruise & Travel Show - Sun 8 Mar Free Entry. Join over 30 exhibitors from the world of travel plus presentations throughout the day Wyboston Lakes Executive Centre, Great North Road, Wyboston MK44 3AL

day. Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road Woburn MK17 9QD Learning Lunchtime Talk - Birds in a Cage: Warburg, 1941 - Mon 16 Mar Birds in a Cage: Warburg 1941 Derek Niemann returns to talk about Birds in a Cage: Warburg 1941, for anyone who missed him in April. Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Learning Lunchtime Talk - Robber Baron and the Siege of Bedford Castle - Mon 9 Mar The Robber Baron and the Siege of Bedford Castle Paul Heley tells the fascinating story of the overthrowing of Bedford Castle in the 13th century. Free talk, no booking required, 11am-12pm. Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Abigail’s Party - Tue 17 to Sat 21 Mar This comedy classic comes to the Sharnbrook Mill Theatre Trust for the very first time. Devised

by Mike Leigh and set in the 1970’s, Donna Summer is playing on the stereo, dishes of cheese and pineapple are on the coffee table.

Sharnbrook Mill Theatre, Mill Road, Sharnbrook MK44 1NP

Urban Exploration to Fine Art - Illustrated Photography lecture - Viveca Koh FRPS Tue 10 Mar Viveca’s unique photographic style and work are quite abstract and surreal with much use of overlays and textures.Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ

Philharmonia Orchestra: 20th Anniversary Gala Concert - Tue 17 Mar Join us and celebrate 20 years of the Philharmonia in Bedford! We are proud to be marking two decades of residency, bringing the world’s greatest classical artists to the Corn Exchange. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL

Italian Day - Sat 14 Mar Franchi Seeds will be at Milton Ernest Garden Centre and they will be giving top advice for growing tasty veg and giving an Italian experience with cooking demonstrations music and much more. Milton Ernest Garden Centre Radwell Road Milton Ernest Bedford MK44 1SH

Soul Legends - Sat 21 Mar Billed as “the feel good show of the year”, brand-new smash-hit, Stateside spectacular Soul Legends is coming to town. Boasting that it “features more soul classics than any other production” songs from Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Tina Turner. Grove Theatre Dunstable, Grove Park, Dunstable, LU5 4GP

Farmers’ Market - Sun 15 Mar Bringing fresh, local produce to the Forest Centre. Free entry, selection of stalls. 10.30 - 3pm Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS Biggleswade Antiques Fair - Sun 15 Mar Over 45 stalls offering a range of antiques from jewellery, glass, china, pictures, postcards, kitchenalia and militaria. Popular cafe serving lunches, hot and cold drinks as well as a range of cakes, jams and chutneys to buy.

The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade SG18 8JH

Nearly New Sale (Sale of quality clothes, toys and equipment 0-5/6 years) - Sat 21 Mar Items for sale include baby equipment, Children’s clothes from birth, bedding, sleeping bags, quality pre-school toys, maternity clothes and much, much more.

Some items are completely unused/boxed. sellers pitch £6.00 Athletic Stadium, Barkers Lane Bedford MK41 9SB

Mums come free at Snakes and Ladders Sun 15 Mar Snakes and Ladders believe a happy child is a happy Mum so they are inviting Mums to come free on Mothers Day. Remember to bring your voucher from www.facebook.com/snakesdunstable. Snakes and Ladders, Blackburn Road, Houghton Regis, Dunstable LU5 5BQ

Bedford Choral Society - St Matthew Passion- Sat 21 Mar Bedford Choral Society Bedford Sinfonia - Ian Smith, conductor As the congregation of St Thomas Church, Leipzig, settled into their pews on Good Friday 1727, they would have been expecting as usual a musical setting of the Passion narrative.

Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL

Crafts, Cake and a Cuppa - Sun 15 Mar Come along 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

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Learning Lunchtime Talk - Age UK: Avoiding Scams - Mon 23 Mar Age UK: Avoiding Scams Becky Ireland gives expert advice on how to maintain piece of mind, by spotting and avoiding financial scams. Free talk, no booking required, 11am-12pm. Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Choral Celebration Sat 28 Mar Danesborough Chorus with the Milton Keynes City Orchestra and soloists conducted by Ian Smith. The programme includes the very popular Faure Requiem, Handel’s Coronation Anthems including Zadok the Priest and the joyful Exsultate Jubilate. Grove Theatre, Dunstable LU5 4GP

Flower Photography Illustrated Photography Lecture - Dan Evans - Tue 24 Mar Dan is a freelance photographer from Olney. With an honours degree in botany under the tutorship of world-famous botanist David Bellamy, it is only natural that Dan should photograph flowers and gardens.

Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK41 9QJ

Antique Fair - Sun 29 Mar Beacon Fairs are pleased to announce a new venue for 2015 where there will be an opportunity to buy quality antiques in this attractive hotel which is located just off Junction 14 of the M1. The Holiday Inn, Milton Keynes East, Bedfordshire MK16 0JA

Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs Thur 26 Mar Based on the award-winning book by Giles Andreae and Russell Ayto. Join Flinn as he discovers a Pirate hiding in a cupboard, hold on tight as the cupboard falls away and together we tumble into a real life adventure! University of Bedfordshire Theatre MK41 9EA

Mosaic Madness - til Wed 18 Mar Make your own amazing coaster with real glass mosaic tiles. Suitable for ages 5 to 11. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Bucks Listings

Boutique Cinema at Clayton’s Marlow - Mon 2, Mon 9, Mon 16, Mon 23, Mon 30 Mar Every Monday Clayton’s Marlow transforms into an intimate Boutique Cinema to show you the very best in film. Sit back in one of their comfy sofas, sip on a cocktail, grab a bite to eat and watch a film on their big screen. Clayton’s Marlow, 16 Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

Dead Man’s Hand - Fri 27 and Sat 28 Mar Five people are brought together at a remote Italian holiday villa by the mysterious Mr Konakis but someone is about to get bumped off! A murder mystery drama with plenty of twists and bluffs.

Tickets from www.ticketsource.co.uk/treadtheboards Cranfield Village Hall, Court Road, Cranfield MK43 0DR

MK Handmade & Vintage Weekend Extravaganza - Sun 1 Mar Free Entry! Forget Brighton or Camden! Milton Keynes has one of the biggest handmade and vintage events in the country, where we transform the huge indoor area in front of John Lewis in Central Milton Keynes shopping centre into a vast indoor treasure trove. In front of John Lewis, Middleton Hall, the centre:mk, Central Milton Keynes Shopping Centre, MK9 3ES

Craft Fayre - Sat 28 Mar There will be stalls selling handmade jewellery, homemade cakes, hand sewn gifts and homewares along with local artists. Milton Ernest Garden Centre Radwell Road Milton Ernest MK44 1SH Gary Barlow Tribute Night - Sat 28 Mar UK’s number one Gary Barlow Tribute Dan Hadfield performs all the hits and does a meet and mingle with the audience afterwards.

Perfectly timed for mother’s day - tickets £15, booking essential. Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Felt Making and Stitch - 2 Part Course - Sun 1 & Sun 8 Mar Discover the magic of felt making. This two-part practical course will take you through the step-by-step process beginning with raw wool and ending with your hand embellished textile piece. All materials are included. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Murder Mystery Evening - Sat 28 Mar Murder Mystery Evening performed by St Nicholas Players, 3 course meal, prizes for best detectives, raffle. St Anne Church, Crawley Grn Rd Luton Beds, Bedfordshire LU2 0RB

Wedding Fair at Wycombe Swan Town Hall Sun 1 Mar All the needs of your special day under one roof enhanced by a beautiful venue with staff and exhibitors at your disposal.

Wycombe Swan Town Hall HP11 2XE

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Sausage Tasting & Fairtrade Fortnight Mother’s Day Gifts Fair at Hazeldene Farm Sun 1 Mar We are celebrating Chesham’s Fairtrade Fortnight & Mother’s Day all rolled into one! This event presents a wonderful opportunity to buy unique, Fairtrade and local handmade gifts for your beloved mothers for Mother’s Day. Hazeldene Farm, Ashridge Road, Chesham HP5 2XD

with live music, Theatre MK14 6BN

puppetry

Stantonbury

Concert - The Sterling Trio - Sat 7 Mar Sarah Atter - flute, Thomas Verity - clarinet and Lauren Hibberd - piano, will be performing a lovely programme of pieces for this combination of instruments.

Dr Challoners High School, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont HP7 9QB

NSPCC Snowdrop Sunday walk - Sun 1 Mar Enjoy the wonderful abundance of snowdrops at West Wycombe park. Walk around the estate and breathe in the fresh spring air. West Wycombe Park, West Wycombe HP14 3AJ

Esio Trot trail - Sat 7 and Sun 8 Mar For all ages: hunt for tortoises throughout the Museum. Can you find the original Esio Trot? 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Wing Book Fair - Sun 1 Mar The Wing Book Fair will be held once again at the stunning Village Hall in the delightful village of Wing.

Over its life, the Wing book fair has become a fixture. Wing Village Hall, Wing LU7 0NW

Stunt Challenge - Sat 7 and Sun 8 Mar Burning water, a barbed wire crawl and a world first ‘Hell Fire’ finish are just a few of many obstacles to expect when internationally renowned stunt performers, Gary Connery and Curtis Rivers, bring the extraordinary world of Hollywood film and TV. West Wycombe Park HP14 3AJ

Chiddlers’ Hour: Esio Trot - Tue 3 Mar For 0 to 3 years: 30 minutes of songs, storytelling and adventure and 30 minutes of free play and crafts based on Roald Dahl’s Esio Trot. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Piano Recital by Geoffrey Hopkins - Sat 7 Mar Geoffrey Hopkins plays a varied programme of works including several well known favourites: Mozart: Sonata in A minor.

K310. Chopin: 3 Etudes from Op.10. - no.3 in E major (’Tristesse’), no.4 in C sharp minor, and no.12. in C minor. St Mary’s Church, Church St., Aylesbury HP20 2JJ

Comedy Gong Show with Tom Deacon! Wed 4 Mar Where better to hold a competition than in the largest casino outside of London, situated inside the Xscape building. 8 acts will battle it out to be named the winner of The Comedy Cow Gong Show!

The Casino MK, Xscape, 602 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes MK9 3XS

Amersham Concert Club Sat 7 Mar Chamber Music Concert given by The Sterling Trio Sarah Atter - Flute, Thomas Verity Clarinet, Lauren Hibberd - Piano Saint-Saens Tarantella Op.6 Gluck Trio Sonata No.1 in C major Howard Blake Invocation Sir Malcolm Arnold Grand Fantasia Dr Challoner’s High School, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont HP7 9QB

Clayton’s Marlow Music Club Presents…

Kirsty Fuller live - Thu 5 Mar Acoustic singer and guitarist Kirsty returns. Covering artists from Fleetwood Mac to Rihanna, she mixes up old soul, with folk, and r&b sounds so expect plenty of twists on classics old and new. Clayton’s Marlow, 16 Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

Vale Harvest Local Food Market - Sat 7 Mar A monthly market featuring a range of awardwinning produce from across the Aylesbury Vale. With over 20 stalls each month selling a wide variety of hot and cold food and drink. Banks Park, Haddenham Village Hall, Haddenham HP17 8EE

World Book Day party - Thu 5 Mar For all ages: free entry, games, storytelling and craft activities for all. Come dressed as your favourite book character and win a prize. 81 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Drawing Workshop in the Museum - Sat 7 Mar Observe and draw beautiful objects in the museum to learn and improve your drawings skills. The morning will consist of a beginners and improvers drawing class to give you confidence to work from the displays in the afternoon. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Captain Flinn and The Pirate Dinosaurs Sat 7 Mar Join Flinn as he discovers a pirate hiding in a cupboard, hold on tight as the cupboard falls away and together we tumble into a real life adventure! All aboard for a non-stop, action packed theatrical experience

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Twisted Soul Collective at Clayton’s Marlow - Sat 7 Mar Deck wizards Twisted Soul Collective grace the turntables at Clayton’s Marlow to play selected cuts of disco, soul, funk, rare groove, nu-disco and house.

Clayton’s Marlow, 16 Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

being supporting in 2015 will be announced shortly. Stantonbury Leisure Centre MK14 6BN O Nata Lux- Sat 14 Mar O Nata Lux - A selection of fine 20th century sacred and secular a cappella music given by Aylesbury Consort of Voices with their Conductor Kelvin Turner Concert in aid of Iain Rennie Hospice at Home.St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Princes Risborough HP27 9AN

Wheelchair Rugby - Sun 8 Mar Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby (GBWR) are working in partnership with Milton Keynes Council and Stantonbury Arts & Leisure to bring this exciting Paralympic sport to Milton Keynes.

Stantonbury Leisure Centre MK14 6BN

Bach: St John Passion - Sat 14 Mar Wooburn Singers and soloists and Baroque orchestra perform the popular yet moving and profound choral work by the master - Johann Sebastian Bach. All Saint’s Parish Church, Castle Street, High Wycombe HP13 6RF

Stoke Place Wedding Fair - Sun 8 Mar Set within 26 acres of Buckinghamshire countryside, Stoke Place offers plenty of old charms and features, yet updated with handpicked modern designer pieces. Stoke Place, Stoke Green, Stoke Poges SL2 4HT

Oye Santana - Sat 14 Mar Oye Santana: awesome guitar, passionate and exciting as Santana himself, and an infectious good-time feel – each track a fiesta, every performance a show. You’ll sing, smile and dance from the first chink of tambourine to the get-up-andboogie finale. The Limelight, Queen’s Park, Aylesbury HP21 7RT

Family History Talk: Searching for Names Challenges and Pitfalls - Tue 10 Mar With increased indexing and transcription of records, often linked to digitized images on free and commercial websites, looking for an individual or particular surname is much easier now than in the past. Community Centre, Wakeman Road, Bourne End SL8 5SX

Mr Hoppy’s gadget trail - Sat 14 Mar To celebrate British Science Week, try our trail to find out about the inventions from Roald Dahl’s stories and his life. Watch out for the Tortoise-Catcher from Esio Trot! 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Chiddlers’ Hour: The Enormous Crocodile and The Twits - Tue 10 Mar For 0 to 3 years: 30 minutes of songs, storytelling and adventure and 30 minutes of free play and crafts based on Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile and The Twits. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

BECCMARK (Bourne End Community and Craft Market) - Sat 14 Mar 10am until 1pm and is held in the Jackson Room and Lantern Room of Bourne End Library, Wakeman Road, Bourne End, SL8 5SX in addition to our array of stalls we also serve refreshments. The Jackson Room, Bourne End Library, Wakeman Road, Bourne End SL8 5SX

Harry Allen quartet - Tue 10 Mar Harry Allen (tenor sax) is a big name in the US and he’s coming to Europe for a tour. More than that, he’s bringing the outstanding pianist Andrea Pozza, along with Steve Brown, who is one of the UK’s best jazz drummers. Christ Church URC, Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

Discover Dahl’s archives - Sat 14 Mar For 10+: a behind-the-scenes tour of our archive store, which houses Roald Dahl’s unique collection of letters and manuscripts, with Collections Manager and Archivist Rachel White. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Clayton’ Marlow Music Club Presents... Amir Sharma - Thu 12 Mar Best known for his flawless Michael Jackson covers, Amir will be playing a range of covers from Stevie Wonder to Eminem as well as some of his original work. Clayton’s Marlow, 16 Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

Hands-on Science - Sun 15 Mar A lively afternoon of scientific fun and activities for the curious and inquisitive, what ever your age! Join Dr. C to discover the science of fairies and elves. Make fairy dust, investigate bubbles, glowing potions and flying objects.

Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue. High Wycombe HP13 6PX

The Rotary Club of Milton Keynes Swimathon - Sat 14 Mar The Rotary Club of Milton Keynes organises a Swimathon each year. Since its inception in 1994 the event has raised over £450,000. The charities which are

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An afternoon tea concert - Sun 15 Mar 3pm,after which afternoon tea will be served.

We will be singing Stainer’s Crucifixion. St Lawrence Church West Wycombe HP14 3AG

Community Centre, Somerville Way, Fowler Road, Aylesbury HP19 7QT Misbourne Symphony Orchestra concert Sat 21 Mar The Misbourne Symphony Orchestra, Rosie Firth and Nick Zagni (trumpets), Viv McLean (piano), Conductor Richard Jacklin. Wagner: Parsifal overture, Vivaldi: Concerto for two trumpets in C, Ravel: Piano concerto in G. he Amersham School, Stanley Hill, Amersham HP7 9HH

Cirque Berserk - Mon 16 to Wed 18 Mar Direct from four sold-out seasons in London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Britain’s favourite contemporary thrill circus embarks at last on a nationwide theatre tour. Swan Theatre, High Wycombe HP11 2XE HMS Pinafore and The Zoo - Tue 17 to Sat 21 Mar Wolverton Gilbert & Sullivan Society celebrate its 40th Anniversary with a Sullivan double bill - HMS Pinafore & The Zoo. The Zoo is a farcical tale concerning two pairs of lovers - a nobleman who eats himself stupid to woo the girl. Stantonbury Theatre, Stantonbury Arts & Leisure, Stantonbury, Milton Keynes MK14 6BN

Antiques and Collectables Fair - Sun 22 Mar Antiques & Collectables Fair, established for 16 years. Held every 4th Sunday in the month, with up to 80 tables, selling a wide and interesting variety of items. Haddenham Village Hall, Banks Park, Haddenham Village HP17 8EE Chilterns Cycle Challenge - Sun 22 Mar which is back for its fifth year and is set to be a great day out in the beautiful Chilterns! The event will start and finish at Kingsbury Square, Aylesbury HP20 2JA

’Old Money’ performed by Chesham Theatre Company - Thu 19 to Sat 21 Mar Old Money

by Sarah Wooley, directed by Mike Consden ‘Forty years of respectable marriage should have prepared Joyce for respectable widowhood. She, however, has other ideas – and a secret life of champagne, strippers, and chance encounters.The Little Theatre by the Park, Church Street, Chesham HP5 1HU

Mrs Hoppy’s mindsquiffing masterclass - Sun 22 Mar For 6+ years: to celebrate British Science Week, join Mrs Hoppy, super scientist and teacher Ramla Ali, for this fun and handson session. Through some fantabulous Science experiments.81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Buckingham Old Gaol Quiz Night - Fri 20 Mar Join us again for another night of testing your knowledge, teams of four but as usual these can be made up on the night. Buckingham Old Gaol, Market Hill, Buckingham MK18 1JX

Chiddlers’ Hour: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Tue 24 Mar For 0 to 3 years: 30 minutes of songs, storytelling and adventure and 30 minutes of free play and crafts based on Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Family Entertainment: Comedy & Music Sat 21 Mar An evening of family entertainment at Monkston Community Centre. Doors open at 3:45pm with entertainment beginning at 4:15pm.

Comedian and star of the BBC Worldwide TV show Best in Town, Mike Belgrave. Monkston Community Centre, St Bartholomews, Monkston, Milton Keynes, MK10 9FJ

High Wycombe Scout & Guide Gang Show Wed 25 to Sat 28 Mar It is said that somewhere, everyday of every year, a Gang Show is being performed. Lancaster Arts Centre, Wycombe Abbey School, High Wycombe HP11 1PE

Willow Basketmaking - Sat 21 & Sun 22 Mar Make a traditional English willow basket to take home, admire and use. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe, HP13 6PX

Clayton’s Marlow Music Club Presents...

Laura Williams - Thu 26 MarThe talented Laura Williams returns to Clayton’s Marlow’s popular weekly music night, bringing her upbeat interpretations of r&b and soul classics, to funk and pop (including a superb 90s medley!) Clayton’s Marlow, 16 Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL

The Paths and Old Roads, Watering Holes for Man and Beast - Sat 21 Mar In this talk to Buckinghamshire Family History Society, Bruce Smith discusses the unusual subject of local drove roads. Droving started as soon as man began to own livestock. Prebendal Farm

Tiny Talk Time: Let’s Go Fly a Kite - Fri 27 Mar A special time at Wycombe Museum for 2

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Marvellous mobiles - Sun 29 Mar For 5+ years: dress up the Roly Poly Bird in fabulous feathers and surround him with colourful egg pictures, to fly around in the air. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

to 4 year olds with stories, trails and craft activities inspired by the Museum collection and gardens. The morning sessions are repeated in the afternoon. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue. High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Easter Bunny Spoon Puppets - Tue 31 Mar Get set for some Easter Bunny fun and create your own bobbing and hopping bunny spoon puppet. Suitable for ages 5 to 11. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Amersham Concert Club - Sat 28 Mar Chamber Music Lecture/Recital given by Peter Medhurst "Songs and Arias by Mozart and his Contemporaries." Music including arias from The Magic Flute, Das Veilchen, Abendempfindung, Five Early Minuets, as well as music by Haydn and Thomas Linley Jr. Dr Challoner’s High School, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont HP7 9QB

The Compton Valance show - Tue 31 Mar For 6+ years: roll up, roll up for the Compton Valance Show! Travel back in time to the Jurassic period, Victorian era and more with the author of the Compton Valance series of books, and Heart Radio DJ, Matt Brown. 81 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Lecture / Recital - Amersham Concert Club presents Peter Medhurst on Mozart- Sat 28 Mar Peter Medhurst’s career as a singer, pianist and lecturer has taken him all over the world. He has appeared the Barbican, Royal Festival Hall and other London venues and is a well-known speaker at events organised by the National Trust and.Dr Challoners High School, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont HP7 9QB

Roly-Poly door hanger - Tue 31 Mar For 5+ years: paint a ceramic Roly Poly bird to hang from your door. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Glumptious treat bags - Sat 28 Mar For 5+ years: decorate a cloth bag with your favourite Roald Dahl characters, ready to fill with all your seasonal treats.81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL Egg Hunt - Sat 28 Mar Search the Museum and gardens for the hidden eggs to win a chocolate prize. Runs from Saturday 28 March to Sunday 12 April (except Bank Holidays). Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue.

High Wycombe HP13 6PX

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Buckinghamshire Railway Centre - Steaming Open Day - Sun 29 Mar Buckinghamshire Railway Centre occupies an extensive site in rolling Buckinghamshire countryside. Exhibits range from large express passenger locomotives to the humble shunting engine together with a host of smaller items recreating the golden age of railways.

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY

Deadline for April Issue 15th March

Wedding Fair - Sun 29 Mar Hedsor House has built a reputation over the years of hosting weddings in both the House and the Grounds.

The House offers a unique “blank canvas” opportunity allowing couples to create their perfect wedding. Hedsor House, Hedsor Park, Nr Taplow SL6 0HX

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