Sticks november 2013

Issue 15 November 2013

In this edition of the Sticks Exclusive interview with Best Selling Author Adam Croft Plus an interview with comedian Jason Manford Panto Time Part Two BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace on Warm up for Winter

We road test the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross The latest Kippings Food Column And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks

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Welcome to the November 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 Adam Croft Interview with Jason Manford Panto Time Part Two Curwens Legal Column Returning to Work After a Sabbatical Kippings Food Column Janey Lee Grace - Warm up for Winter Road Test – Suzuki SX4 S-Cross Listings for Herts, Beds & Bucks

Page 4 6 10 12 13 14 16 18 20

Contributors: Janey Lee Grace, Martin Wilson, Terry Sullivan Donna Obstfeld, Andrew Merritt-Morling

See you in December Editor & Sales: Layout and design:

Terry Sullivan Martin Wilson

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 Bedfordshire’s Best Selling Author Adam Croft Adam Croft is an English author born and raised in Dunstable, Bedfordshire who writes crime and mystery novels. He is best known for Knight & Culverhouse series of books and the Kempston Hardwick mysteries. He wrote his first book, Too Close for Comfort, in 2011 followed by a sequel, Guilty as Sin in the same year. Adam published his third book, Exit Stage Left in 2011 as a part of the Kempston Hardwick series.

Three of Adam’s books have been Amazon best-sellers. Exit Stage Left was adapted for radio in 2012. He sold over 250,000 copies of his books in 2011. Adam is a strong advocate of self-publishing and has self-published all of his books. In 2012, he wrote a non-fictional book titled ‘We Need to Talk about Adam’ in which he discussed his lifelong battle with chronic depression. The book is based on a journal of his thoughts he started keeping in 2009. He announced that the proceeds from this book will be donated to a mental health charities. He is a friend of actor and former Egghead CJ de Mooi and helped in publishing de Mooi's first book in 2013. Author Stephen Leather has referred to Croft as "One of the best new writers in Britain" The Sticks recently sat down with Adam to talk about his books and his life so far You have a new book out at the moment called The Westerlea House Mystery? Yes it came out in August and is the second in the Kempston Hardwick series following on from Exit Stage Left. Exit Stage Left was the first Kempston Hardwick Mystery, the plot revolves around an ex-entertainer - well he still is an entertainer but he used to be far more popular in his heyday, who dies mysteriously on stage in a pub, which he has been lowered to playing at. Kempston Hardwick is there with Ellis Flint and they investigate the murder, without giving too much away. In the Westerlea House mystery this time it is based around a television physic who prophesises that we will soon have proof of life after death and before we know it he dies in a locked room, that no one can get in or out of, then a few days later there is another murder in the village and he is seen at the scene despite having been killed a couple of days earlier and again Hardwick and Flint have to unravel that mystery.

Your books have a local touch? Yes they do. You can’t but be influenced by your local area, the things you see and experience. The village of Tollinghill where Kempston lives and everything is based is based fairly heavily on Ampthill which is a town I know very well and obviously the name of Kempston Hardwick, himself is lifted straight from the village on the way to Bedford. I had had this idea for the character for quite a while; I knew exactly what he was like, I knew every little bit of his personality, the way he would talk and react to things but what I did not know was his name, it was only driving one day to Bedford I saw the sign Kempston Hardwick and thought that was his ideal name.

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Would you describe him as a modern day Sherlock Holmes? I suppose so yes. He has large parts of Sherlock Holmes in him and a large dash of Hercule Poirot and various other classical detectives. The Kempston Hardwick series is more your classic mystery, it is not your Rebus gritty crime - it is far more traditional cosy British murder mystery, things I have always loved reading, Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle, Dorothy L. Sayers - things like that, so the books are very much on those lines.

Is there going to be more from Kempston Hardwick? Yes there is. I already know what is going to happen in the third book. I have the plot and I am about to start on it soon and I know how the series will end as well so I know how the thing will all pan out. I think there is a lot of mileage in Hardwick and Flint.

How did you get into writing? It is something I have always wanted to do. When I was at school it was far more of a pipe dream, I always wanted to go in to writing or some type of performing. I remember when we had to chose our options my choices were drama and media studies and I was told by the careers advisor (I think it was) I could not do both because they are too closely related, which looking back now sounds a bit odd because they are closely related because that’s what I wanted to do. I did not want to hedge my bets I wanted to go in to that kind of area, in the end I had to drop doing the drama side of things. I went on to do Media studies, English language and various other bits, never intending it to become something I would do full time, it was a bit of a dream like everyone wants to play for England, write a book or be in a band you know.

So I went in to the world of work then I must have been aged 23-24 when I started writing a book on the side and I put that out at the beginning of 2011. The book was called “Too Close For Comfort” and all I really wanted was someone I did not know to buy the book, to read it and to tell me what they thought of it, never expecting it to be successful at all but it took off and by the April it was the number 1 best selling book on Amazon and it kind of went from there really. It was something I had always wanted; it was never something I had planned - I guess I got lucky and it fell in my lap as such.

You can buy all of Adam Croft’s books on Amazon via the link below www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_10?url=searchalias%3Dstripbooks&fieldkeywords=adam+croft&sprefix=adam+croft%2Cnull%2C205

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JASON MANFORD INTERVIEW

By James Rampton Jason Manford has not run away to join the opera. Despite winning ITV1’s charity based talent competition, Born To Shine, putting his new-found talent into practice by joining Alfie Boe on tour and then starring in the critically acclaimed West End production of Sweeney Todd alongside Michael Ball and Imelda Staunton, Jason has not forgotten his stand-up roots.

In fact, you will be delighted to hear, the wonderfully gifted comedian is now returning to his first love and embarking on a huge nationwide live tour with a major new show entitled, “First World Problems”. Jason will be playing in a venue near you very soon, but you are advised to book early – extra dates have been added to the tour schedule due to popular demand.

Jason jokes that, “Some of you might think I've had a career change, what with all the opera and musical theatre I've been doing lately. Not a chance. I’m excited to be getting back to what I really love the most – stand-up!”

A comedian with a marvelously charismatic style, Jason strikes up a natural rapport with his audiences. He also possesses an irresistible amiability and generates a rare warmth on stage. All these talents have combined to make Jason one of the best loved and most in demand comics in the country.

The critics agree. The Guardian praises, “What Manford does best: classic, chirpy-chappie standup”. The Evening Standard calls him, “Effortlessly entertaining”. The Daily Telegraph says that he is, “Blessed with the sort of laid-back charm and sharp turn of phrase you can’t manufacture”. Meanwhile, Chortle declares that, “Manford retains an affably jovial demeanour that makes him warmly enjoyable company.”

Chatting to me in a TV dressing room – he is about to appear on Jonathan Ross’s ITV1 chat show – in person Jason manifests the same likeable magnetism that draws thousands of fans to his live shows. His winning friendliness is no act. With this particular comic, what you see is what you get.

Jason, who has also performed stand-up on BBC1’s Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow and multiple Royal Variety Performances, cannot contain his excitement about returning to live comedy.

The performer; a first-rate observational comic who describes his show as "essentially moaning about everyday life, but with punchlines" says the buzz you get from live comedy is unrivalled.

“You can’t give it up!" he beams.“People who haven't done stand-up focus on the negatives – ‘what’s it like to die on stage?’ I always say, ‘It’s horrendous, the worst feeling in the world’.

But the lows are so low because the highs are so high."

The stand-up, who was also hosted Show Me the Funny and Comedy Rocks with Jason Manford for ITV1, carries on "It’s a huge risk, but when it goes right, there is nothing better. It creates a communal feeling that you just can’t beat. You get all these people laughing and you think, ‘I did that!’ If you make one person laugh in a day, that’s great. Imagine multiplying that by 10,000!”

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Jason underlines that stand-up remains his overwhelming passion. "TV is simpler. You can do retakes. But you're not getting an immediate response. You don't know if something is funny till weeks later.

"Overall TV is much, much easier. A lot of the time it’s just professional reading. It's reading while trying to make it look like you're not reading."

Stand-up, on the other hand, is much more demanding. "On stage, you're everything," Jason continues. "You're the boss. You're the performer, writer, editor, director. You're even Ofcom.

You decide what to say. It's brilliant."

Jason now has a very wide fan base. He observes that, “By now, people know that we share a sense of humour. They are aware of what they're getting, and I’m aware of what makes them laugh. The weirdest thing is fans who remember jokes that I’ve forgotten. Sometimes I say to them, ‘I don’t remember that one. I must put it back in the act – it’s a good gag!’

The stand-up, who was a team captain on 6 series of 8 Out of 10 Cats as well as appearing on QI, Big Fat Quiz of the Year, League of Their Own and Would I Lie to You, adds that, “It’s also really interesting to see the demographic of my audience. I get grannies, their kids and their kids. It’s great to see.”

Jason goes on to explain the title of his new show, "First World Problems". "I’d seen the phrase online and liked it; it just sums up so much I think the phrase emphasises those times when we moan about the most trivial things. It's as if we invent problems so we have something to moan about. I imagine someone in the third world just thinking that we were all complete idiots!"

Jason reveals that his material is constantly evolving. "I only tour every couple of years, and the good thing is that over that time your life and the people who surround you are constantly changing. Also, as you get older, you get more opinionated."

Sadly, Jason has to leave now - he must to go into make-up in preparation for the chat show.

Before he departs, though, I return to the subject of his sheer likability.

Jason smiles that, “I’m the same on stage as I am in real life – which can be incredibly annoying at home! Jimmy Carr says that because he is quite rude on stage, if he says 'hello' to a fan in the street, that will make their day.

"By contrast, because I’m nice on stage, unless I ask a fan if they fancy a brew, they’ll say, ‘He’s a bit rude’. I’m a victim of my own niceness. Sometimes I wish I’d gone down the Jack Dee misery route!”

See Jason live at the following local places: Mon 25 & Tue 26 Nov at Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury Tickets: 0844 871 7607 Sat 15 Feb 2014 at Watford Colosseum Tickets: 08450 753 993 Tue 25 & Weds 26 Feb 2014 at Alban Arena, St Albans Tickets: 01727 844 488 Tue 18 & Weds 19 Mar 2014 at Bedford Corn Exchange Tickets: 01234 269 519

www.jasonmanford.com

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Panto Time - Part Two Cinderella at The Alban Arena

The Alban Arena and Evolution Productions are proud to present, Cinderella, St Albans’ funniest and most spectacular Pantomime ever. Once again, Hertfordshire’s biggest festive treat will be written by Paul Hendy and produced by the same team who brought you last year’s smash-hit show, Aladdin.

This year’s production features singer-songwriter and west-end star, Gareth Gates, as the dashing Prince Charming in his 5th panto who says “he is looking forward to coming to St Albans and having fun and also my 4 year old daughter will be coming to see me in the show.”

BAFTA Children’s Award nominee and CBeebies presenter Andy Day as Dandini and star of the Olivier Award winning ‘Morecambe’, St Albans’ favourite, Bob Golding as Buttons, also returning from last year is the lovely Jemma Carlisle in the title role ably supported by Laura Jane Matthewson as the fairy Godmother and Sam Rabone and Matthew Daines as the ugly sisters with Ian Kirkby as Baron Hardup completing the star cast Cinderella is without a doubt St Albans biggest pantomime ever, an extra week has been added to cope with the growing demand for tickets and they are selling fast, so don’t be late for the ball .…

Friday 6 December – Sunday 5 January 2014 Box Office 01727 844488 Book Online www.alban-arena.co.uk

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Cinderella at Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage

Cinderella comes to the Gordon Craig Theatre on November 30th and runs through to the 26th January 2014. 53-year-old Gillian Wright heads this years cast as the Fairy Godmother. She played Eastenders schizophrenic Jean Slater for eight years and left the programme last month.

During the launch of Cinderella Gillian said “Panto and TV are completely different but I love them both.”

“With filming you can often do a scene out of sequence and forget it but in this show it’s the other extreme - two, sometimes three shows a day live.”

About her soap character who became a household name in Albert Square, she added: “People stop you in the street and call you by the character’s name. Over time you realise how many are affected by the part you’re playing and how important her story is.”

Co-star Paul Laidlaw is back for another show – almost 30 years after he first performed in a panto at the Gordon Craig – as ugly sister Florabunda, while at the other end of the scale as Cinderella is Rebecca Tyson, who performed in her first panto last year. She will be staying with fellow cast member Rebecca Lisewski during the run, after the West End actress moved to Hitchin earlier this year.

Scott Cripps, who earlier this year performed in the Jesus Christ Superstar World Tour, plays Buttons while Dereck Walker completes the line-up as second ugly sister Marjorie.

Tickets for Cinderella range from £10.75 to £21.50.

Box office: 01438 363200

www.gordon-craig.co.uk

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Is Marriage a Thing of the Past?

Cohabitation (where couples live together without being married or in a civil partnership) is the fastest growing family type in the UK. In 2012, there were 5.9 million people cohabiting - double the 1996 figure.

Resolution, the national body representing family lawyers and advisers carried out a survey at the recent Lib Dem conference which revealed that 69% of MPs agree there is a mistaken belief in the existence of “common law marriage” and over half believe the law needs to be changed to provide greater protection for unmarried couples upon separation.

Resolution has been campaigning for a change in the law to reflect this increasing demographic group for many years.

Many people believe, incorrectly, that cohabitants have the same rights as married couples. This is simply not the case and upon separation one party could find themselves in a difficult financial position and even forced to leave the property they considered to be their home.

It is possible to live together with someone for decades and even to have children together, and then simply walk away without taking any responsibility for a former partner’s welfare. Most people agree that is simply wrong.

There is a way to protect your position in the meantime as government change is likely to take many years. The couple can enter into a cohabitation agreement – simply confirming an agreed and fair approach to be taken if they ever separate.

At Curwens LLP, we are always happy to have an initial chat with you on the telephone to run through exactly what help you need.

So if you have any questions just give us a ring on 01992 463727 or have a look at our website www.curwens.co.uk.

Curwens LLP are your local solicitors based in Royston, Hoddesdon, and Enfield.

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Returning to work after a Sabbatical Starting a new job can be nerve racking, but returning to work after a sabbatical can be terrifying as well as exciting, liberating and challenging.

Reasons for Sabbaticals are varied and usually fairly personal. They may range from 6 months off to travel, to 10 years + career break to look after children as they grow up.

The first challenge is to find a job. An updated CV which demonstrates any voluntary work and transferrable skills gained during the sabbatical is essential to securing the right position in the right company for you.

If you have been out of work for a significant period of time, ensuring your IT skills are up to date and any relevant professional knowledge has been maintained is essential. An employer is unlikely to hire you as a doctor or a lawyer if you have been out of the workplace for a number of years and not undertaken refresher courses.

Your wardrobe may well need a makeover to ensure that you have appropriate clothes to wear. Jeans and trainers may be fine for helping out at a hospice, but are unlikely to be appropriate in an office. Find out what the dress code is before attending your interview, if in doubt, go smart. Then ensure you ask what the dress code is, if a uniform is provided or what colours they want you to wear. Review your wardrobe and buy 2 or 3 key pieces to start with, you don’t need to have 20 shirts on day 1.

Check your journey to work and try it several different ways at the right time of the day. There is no point in trying a route at lunchtime if you are going to be doing it at 8am. Train and bus times vary and traffic conditions change throughout the day. You don’t want to be late so make sure you have several options available to you in case of accidents, strikes or congestion.

Making a successful transition back into the workplace involves getting into the right frame of mind, getting your body clock reset and getting your support structures in place. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and know what your limitations are, especially if you are going into a new field. Don’t expect everything to be the same as it was when you left, especially if you are returning to the same company – life goes on and will have gone on without you – expect change and you may be pleasantly surprised.

www.dohr.co.uk 01923 504100 enquiries@dohr.co.uk

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A recent article in The Daily Mail stated that researchers in Rio de Janeiro say learning to cook may have helped the human brain to grow …. they never mentioned eating brain.

Whether the brain belongs to a pig sheep or a calf, the brain can provide an interesting and healthy snack and most importantly its consumption has been cleared by the Food Standard Agency for human consumption.

Eaten regularly in the 1920’s and 30’s , eating brain has since gone out of fashion, but ever since Heston Blumenthal famously cooked some for the Queen in 2010, its popularity in “nose to tail” eating has grown. Reputed to be a natural aphrodisiac, the brains can only be sourced from an animal that is less than one year old ….. ask your local butcher and they will help you with making the right purchase. For this recipe, we are using a pig’s brain which is usually the size of a large duck egg.

Traditionally the brain should be kept in cold water for 24 hours but can also be prepared from frozen if necessary.

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Start by “blanching” the brains in simmering boiled water with garlic and bay leaves for between 8 and ten minutes until they are white in colour.

Remove from the water and allow to cool. Coat a mixture of plain flour, egg, and breadcrumbs then fry at 180 degrees Celsius. If you plan to use the brains at a later date, freeze the brains once they are coated with the flour mixture in a freezer set at at least minus 18 degrees Celsius.

We recommend serving the brain with salad or fries with ketchup mayo or tartar sauce.

The texture once cooked is very similar to mushroom with a strong but not overpowering flavour. We can’t assure you that you will become cleverer by eating the brains, but researchers in Rio are confident that just the cooking process alone may help. Enjoy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you are looking for a special place to enjoy this Christmas, look no further than Kippings Bistro. With our warm and professional welcome, excellent food and roaring log fires, it is the perfect place to truly enjoy Christmas with friends, colleagues or the family.

Visit us at www.kippings.co.uk and see what everybody else says about us on Tripadvisor – Kippings Bistro Wheathampstead or simply call to reserve on 01582 838122

Telephone - 01582 833122 Email - reservations@kippings.co.uk 1 Church Street, Wheathampstead, Herts AL4 8AR www.kippings.co.uk Kippings have been short listed for Harpenden Best Family Restaurant of the Year 2013

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Advent Fair

I’m not a big fan of the commercialisation of Christmas but I do love some of the traditional aspects, attending a service at St Albans abbey and stocking up on gorgeous crafts and stocking fillers at the Advent fair in Kings Langley. I’ve been going for at least 14 years and I never fail to be enchanted.

The Advent Fair is the Rudolf Steiner School’s biggest fundraiser of the year. The atmosphere is certainly always very festive and visitors particularly comment on the traditional Christmas market feel. The entrance to the school is illumined by a giant Christmas tree, complete with twinkling fairy lights; window panes are adorned with colourful stars and snowflakes and the corridors are filled with festive greenery and the joyful sounds of carols.

There are hundreds of stalls selling locally sourced foods, crafts, gorgeous handmade jewellery and ethical clothing. There’s a fantastic range of activities ranging from candle-dipping and continental cafes with live music and singing to Santa’s Grottos, Silent Buster Keaton movies with live piano music and the hugely popular kids activities including the pocket money room and the Gem mine where little ones can use a mini hammer to try and secure a tiny crystal.

Last year there were just over 2,500 visitors to the school at the Advent Fair and it was really a magical family occasion and a great official welcome to the festive season.

Don’t miss it - Saturday 30th November 2013, when the Advent Fair promises to be even bigger and better than ever before. www.rsskl.org

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Warm up for Winter

As the Autumn comes to a close and winter kicks in it’s interesting how we start to desire warmth and comfort and the rich earthy colours of the season, I don’t think I could cope with being a 100 per cent raw foodie as I SO cherish my warming foods, but it’s important to source organic and fairtrade when it comes to food, drinks and indeed spices and cooking ingredients.

I love Steenbergs Organic, a family-run, friendly firm committed to Fairtrade, the environment and people. It was set up in 2003 by Axel and Sophie Steenberg in North Yorkshire, they are passionate about organic spices and organic cooking ingredients packed with flavour, aroma and provenance, ethically sourced, carbon neutral; great flavour.

Check out their Organic Christmas Drinking chocolate (can be drunk at any time!), or even healthier Organic Green Tea with Lemon Verbena and Ginger.

To add some ‘pzazz’ to many dishes try the Lebanese 7 Spice. www.steenbergs.co.uk Autumn is a good time to make sure your digestive system is working well, in addition to Probiotics (I’m a big fan of Optibac Probitics especially ‘For a Flat Stomach’ - previously known as Anti-Bloat! www.optibacprobiotics.co.uk) another innovative suggestion for digestive health is to consider a tummy warmer. These are hot news in Japan, but the company are based in none other than Hertford!

The Haramaki is a simple piece of fabric but while covering up any wobbly bits it also offers great benefit for all manner of ills. Historically the Haramaki protected a soldier's stomach and kidneys. It’s now a multi-purpose accessory, supportive and can also aid digestion, pregnancy and good sleep. It can be worn during exercise, it maintains the body’s core warmth and boosts circulation and is great for any aches and pains. It’s brilliant for pregnant women and girls with hormonal problems too.

You can buy them in a range of sizes and colours from Natural Health Welwyn, Good Food in Hertford or from www.kokoro-japan.co.uk

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Road test -Suzuki SX4 S-Cross 1.6 DDIS SZ5 2WD manual The new Suzuki SX4 S-Cross has been introduced as a direct competitor to the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Yeti – two cars the S-Cross has firmly in its sights.

The focus of this test is on what is likely to be the best selling model, the 1.6 4cylinder DDiS diesel in front wheel drive format in range-topping SZ5 trim.

The 1.6-litre 120bhp Fiat-sourced diesel engine is a bit of a gem and makes for a decent cruiser. The key is the Suzuki’s torque (pulling power) which at a thumping 320Nm from just 1,500rpm, is powerful enough to handle most conditions, including steep hills and heavy loads The six-speed manual is smooth in its delivery with well-spaced gearing. Steering is quick, light and accurate and there is a high level of grip with good body control in fast corners.

With just 110 g/km of CO2, the SX4 S-Cross emissions are very low and help Suzuki in its ambitions to attract a larger proportion of company car and fleet buyers. Fuel consumption is impressive too – with the government’s combined figures suggesting 67.2mpg is available.

All SX4’s come well-appointed with seven airbags, ESP and tyre-pressure monitors, daytime running lights, alloy wheels, plastic body mouldings, electric windows, cruise control with speed limiter, heated door mirrors and air-conditioning all coming as standard. The range-topping SZ5 of our test car adds front parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, satellite navigation, Bluetooth, heated leather seats, automatic HID projector headlamps and a double-sliding panoramic sunroof. All-in-all, the SX4 S-Cross is undeniably a great value car. The only option fitted to our test car is the metallic paint which, at £430, brings the total price to a still very reasonable £22,179.

On the inside the dash layout is unfussy and robust, but lacks the standards of quality familiar in European rivals. Despite this, touch points such as the multifunction steering wheel and the gear lever convey a quality feel and everything appears well-built with all the controls being easy to use and understand.

As you would expect for a quasi-off-roader, the driving position is set high and visibility is good thanks to the tall windscreen. The seats are firm but comfortable and we found it relatively easy to find a comfortable driving position.

Up front, there is plenty of head- and elbow room, but more rear room is available in some of its rivals. Taller passengers especially may find that they do not have enough headroom, not helped by the otherwise excellent panoramic all-glass double sunroof.

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With the rear seats in place, there is 420-litres of space available which is reasonable for the class – and symbolically, 20-litres more than the Qashqai. The load bay is both flat and wide and the low loading lip provides easy access for heavy items.

In conclusion, the SX4 S-Cross is undoubtedly an important car for Suzuki, since it introduces the small Japanese company into a fast-growing and increasingly crowded market. We are very fond of the SX4 S-Cross and think it is a credible and welcome introduction to the sector. The SX4 S-Cross deserves to be a success. www.first4auto.com ____________________________________________________________________________

www.the-sticks.co.uk To advertise your event, show, restaurant or business in our December digital magazine Call 07756 274444 Or email thesticks9@gmail.com Prices from ÂŁ50 per month

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Herts Listings

Theatre ‘comedy’ at its very best! Farcically funny! Market Theatre, Hitchin

Eduardo Paolozzi - General Dynamic F.U.N. -till Friday 15 Nov A Hayward Touring exhibition from Southbank Centre, London. A Scottish artist and sculptor, Sir Eduardo Paolozzi (1924–2005) was one of the pioneers of the pop art movement in the UK. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Marty MacDonald’s Farm - Friday 1 Nov Marty MacDonald needs your help! He’s looking after his uncle’s farm but Old MacDonald has left things in a mess – the animals have gone on holiday, the farmyard is topsy-turvy. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Fireworks Display with BBQ and Fairground Rides - Friday 1 Nov Welwyn Garden City Football Club are delighted to bring back to our community, our fantastic Fireworks Display.

Welwyn Garden City FC, Herns Way, Panshanger, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1TA

Pumpkin Festival - Till Sunday 3 Nov Free pumpkin for every child from Willows Pumpkin Patch with a pumpkin-tastic time at the Farm Village. There are daily pumpkin carving competition with prizes, Pumpkin Hunt, Match the Scarecrow. Willows Farm Village. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF

The Big Draw Private View at Hertford Theatre - Friday 1 Nov See The Big Draw artwork on display and discover who this year’s winners are!

The River Room, Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS

Free, Friendly and Fun - Computing for Beginners at Frogmore Mill - Fri 1 Nov, Tue 5 Nov, Fri 8 Nov, Tue 12 Nov, Fri 15 Nov, Tue 19 Nov, Fri 22 Nov, Tue 26 Nov, Fri 29 Nov Drop in sessions for complete beginners, or those wanting to improve their computer skills.

Computers supplied, or bring your own laptop if you’d prefer to work on this. Frogmore Mill, Fourdrinier Way, off Durrants Hill Road, Apsley, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RY

Allegri String Quartet: Beethoven III- Friday 1 Nov Beethoven string quartets in C minor, Op 18 No 4, in C, Op 59 No 3, in E flat, Op 127 .Peter Morrison Hall, Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin SG4 9RB Reginald D Hunter - Saturday 2 Nov Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans AL1 3LD

A Matter of Life and Death - Friday 1 Nov, Sat 2 Nov, Mon 4 Nov to Sat 9 Nov It is 1945. A young airman jumps to certain death from his burning aircraft. His last words are to a girl he has never met: “I love you, June. You are life and I’m leaving you.” Following an angelic blunder, caused by a classic English pea-souper, Peter Carter miraculously survives and finds June in the flesh. But things are not so simple. To stay alive, Peter is forced to take himself, and the heavenly authorities, to the Universal Court of Appeal. Inspired by Powell and Pressberger’s 1946 film, this wildly romantic tale was first performed at the National Theatre in May 2007.

8pm. Tickets £11. Barn Theatre, Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST

Salt House -Saturday 2 Nov Salt House are a vibrant new contemporary Scottish four piece boasting two previous BBC Young Musician award winners. Indie-traditional band Salt House present a fresh sound built from grassroots folk.

Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE The Jewish Legacy - Saturday 2 Nov The Jewish influence on American popular music before the age of rock can be clearly seen in Broadway’s golden age of musical theatre. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Romeo a Juliet - Sunday 3 Nov Ballet Cymru presents: Romeo a Juliet Critics Circle Award winning company, Ballet Cymru (formerly Independent Ballet Wales), present an extraordinary adaptation of Shakespeare’s masterpiece. Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

An Audience with Nigel Farage - Friday 1 Nov Whether you subscribe to Prime Minister David Cameron’s 2006 claim that Mr Farage’s UKIP party is full of "fruitcakes, loonies and closet racists" or regard him as the only man who offers a feasible alternative. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL st

Alban

Allegri String Quartet: Beethoven IV - Sunday 3 Nov Beethoven: String Quartets in F, Op 18 No 1, in E flat, Op 74, in A minor, Op 132 Peter Morrison Hall, Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin SG4 9RB

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For Sale - Friday 1 & Saturday 2 Nov 7.30pm. Tickets: £10 A fast moving farcical plot sees six characters lives turned into chaos and confusion, when an innocent affair engulfs innocent and not so innocent bystanders! Market

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Fireworks Display - Sunday 3 Nov After the huge success of the first ever display last year, we are pleased to announce this is now a regular event in our schools calendar. Rowans Primary School, Rowans, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1NZ

of Susan’s dangerous behaviour. Market Theatre, Hitchin Julie, Madly, Deeply - Friday 8 Nov Adored by millions, Dame Julie Andrews is a genuine legend of entertainment. But does Mary Poppins ever long to let her hair down at the end of a hard day? Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Clare Teal - The Divas and Me!- Sunday 3 Nov The Queen of Swing celebrates the music of her heroines, the leading lights of the jazz and big band world; Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Judy Garland, Doris Day. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Hertford Art Society Members’ Show - Friday 8 to Sunday 10 Nov This exhibition is a showcase for the members of the Hertford Art Society and features a wide range of works by many wellknown artists both amateur and professional.

Millbridge Rooms, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PG

The Vagina Monologues - Monday 4 Nov Nemo Communications presents: The Vagina Monologues Eve Ensler’s hilarious Broadway and West End smash hit is back with an all new all star cast! Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

Craft & Gift Fair - Saturday 9 Nov Arts - Crafts Gifts - Not on the high street items 11am - 3pm.

Stalls £17 each. Barnet United Reformed Church, Wood Street, Barnet EN5 4BW

Walk The Line - Wednesday 6 Nov, Tue 12 Nov With his driving freight-train chords, steel-eyed intensity and a voice as dark as the night, the legendary Man in Black revolutionised music and forged his legacy as a genuine American icon.

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

Craft & Curios Fair Saturday 9 Nov held in the Andrews Room at Hertford Museum, on the same day each month as Hertford Farmer’s Market.

Teas in the Museum’s Jacobean Knot Garden, Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT

Firewalk - the shortest sponsored walk in the world! - Thursday 7 Nov Come and be challenged by a 12ft walk across hot coals Raising money for Age UK Dacorum, all we ask is that you commit to raise at least £100 in sponsorship. Riverside Shopping Centre, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1BT

Fowlmere Farmers Market - Sat 9 Nov A monthly Farmers Market. We have gained a reputation for our friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We offer a full range of local foods including meats, poultry and game, fruit & veg, eggs. Fowlmere Village Hall, Chrishall Road, Fowlmere, Royston SG8 7RY

The Artist as Flâneur - Thursday 7 to Thursday 21 Nov An exhibition of work by students from the University of Hertfordshire, which is renowned for its art and design courses and the very high standards that result. Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Comedy Club - Saturday 9 Nov Monthly comedy night returns, with Sally-Anne Hayward and Nick Page. As always, Paul B Edwards keeps things under control maybe. Licensed bar.

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

Rare Productions Presents: Grease - Thursday 7 to Saturday 9 Nov A classic musical set in the 1950’s, containing some of the most iconic songs of all time, including You’re the One that I Want, Summer Lovin’ and Greased Lightening. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Indonesian Evening at Hertford Museum Saturday 9 Nov A free evening for adults celebrating Indonesian food, music and culture alongside some of the specimens that Alfred Russel Wallace found there. Come and enjoy the museum and our World of Wallace. Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain SG14 1DT

The Babysitter - Fri 8th, Sat 9th, Thurs 14th, Fri 15th, Sat 16th, Thurs 21st, Fri 22nd, Sat 23rd, Thurs 28th, Fri 29th & Sat 30th Nov@ 7.30pm.

Ticket Prices: £10 / £8.50 conc. (Thursday only) Ken has moved into a cottage on the edge of a village with his baby son. The local landlord has recommended his daughter as a babysitter and Ken gratefully accepts the offer. However, all is not as it seems as Ken becomes increasingly wary

Coull Quartet - Saturday 9 Nov Coull Quartet (String Quartet) - Mendelssohn | Schubert | Beethoven Founded in 1974, and Quartet-inResidence at the University of Warwick since 1977. Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

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Hertford Choral Society - Saturday 9 Nov Autumn concert Britten St Nicholas, Haydn Little Organ Mass. All Saints Church Hertford SG13 1AE

Longenbaugh Directed by Adam Morley Produced

by Claire Bibby. Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

Bond! An Unauthorised Parody - Wednesday 13 Nov Accompany Gavin Robertson In his latest physical style adventure, Gavin Robertson focuses his attention on the Bond phenomenon, spoofing the characters adored by millions, and exploding every cliché. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Radlett Light Operatic Society Presents: Oklahoma - Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 Nov Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic Broadway show is set in Oklahoma territory of 1906 where cattlemen and farmers fight over fences and water rights. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Oliver - Wednesday 13 to Saturday 16 Nov Oliver Young orphan Oliver Twist goes from mistreatment in the London workhouses to falling in with a gang of pickpockets. Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

The Wedding Singer - Wednesday 20 to Sat 23 Nov Based on the hit movie starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, ‘The Wedding Singer’ is a high energy, hilarious and colourful musical that will have you laughing and dancing in the aisles. Watersmeet Theatre, High Street, Rickmansworth WD3 1EH

DEATHTRAP by Ira Levin - Thursday 14 to Saturday 16 Nov This popular stage & screen success is an ingenious chilling thriller with a blend of gasp-inducing thrills & spontaneous laughter. Deathtrap opened on Broadway in 1978 & ran for 4 years. Broxbourne Civic Hall, High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE

I Give It A Year - Thursday 21 Nov The hilarious comedy by the producers of Notting Hill and Bridget Jones’s Diary, and the writer of Borat. I Give It A Year lifts the veil on the realities of the first year of marriage. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Wuthering Heights - Thursday 14 to Saturday 23 Nov Emily Bronte’s gothic tale of love and revenge adapted by April De Angelis for today’s audiences. A fluid, energising piece of theatre from the Company of Ten set in the Yorkshire Moors. Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL

Christmas Lights Switch On Event - Friday 22 Nov A festive bonanza for all the family; crafts, refreshments, choirs, storytelling and much more! Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain Hertford, SG14 1DT Winter Warmer - Friday 22 Nov Come in to Letchworth Arts Centre and watch the Garden City’s Christmas Lights Switch-On, enjoy a mug of soup to nourish your spirits and keep out the cold while helping local charities. Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Jools Holland - Friday 15 Nov Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra. Watford Colosseum, Watford WD17 2EX The Knebworth Christmas Fair - Friday 15 to Sunday 17 Nov Arts, Crafts, Gifts, Food & Drink Fair. Knebworth House, Knebworth SG1 2AX

Letchworth Garden City Christmas Light Switch-on - Friday 22 Nov Love Letchworth brings you the official start to Letchworth Town Centre’s festive season. Join us from 4pm when Santa makes his arrival in the town centre. Enjoy a programme of live music. Letchworth Town Centre SG6 3DD

Watford Philharmonic Society present "An Evening of British Music" - Saturday 16 Nov Come and experience three contrasting works by British composers, two choral and one orchestral. The concert starts at 7.30pm Dona Nobis Pacem, by Vaughan Williams. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road WD17 3JN Haydn’s The Seasons - Saturday 16 Nov After a successful performance of The Creation in 2009, The Harpenden Choral Society returns once again to Haydn to mount his last great choral oratorio, The Seasons. Harpenden High Street Methodist Church AL5 2RU

Christmas Craft Fair - Friday 22 Nov to Saturday 21 Dec The biggest and brightest craft fair in our area is back, with work by local and national artists specialising in quality arts and crafts to make Christmas shopping a pleasure.

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

Sherlock Holmes & The Case Carol - Sunday 17 Nov Company presents: Sherlock Case of the Christmas

Harpenden Circle Gift and Craft Fair - Friday 22 and Saturday 23 NovThe Gift & Craft Fair is an annual event run to raise money for Harpenden’s Circle nominated charities, -

of The Christmas Baroque Theatre Holmes and the Carol by John

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material with classic compositions from Bob Dylan, Hank Williams. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Parkinson’s UK and Herts Young Homeless.

Harpenden Public Halls AL5 1PD The Way of the Drum – Saturday 23 Nov Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers Experience the thundering, exhilarating rhythms of Taiko in a dynamic and captivating show, and gain a unique insight into the world of this powerful art form.

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

Teddy Time Stories (3-7 years +) - Saturday 30 Nov Steve Hughes Productions It’s bedtime for Lily - she knows bedtime is never fun without a story from her magic storybook. Come, bring your teddy along. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Santa’s Spectacular Grotto & Festive Farm Fun - Saturday 23 Nov to Tuesday 24 Dec Meet Santa and receive a golden key to enter his toy shop to choose any gift. Visit the reindeer, write a letter to Santa in the Elves House and skate on our magical ice rink (synthetic ice). Willows Farm Village. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF Così Fan Tutte by W Mon 25, Wed 27, Fri classic story of love Theatre, Handside City AL8 6ST

Joe Longthorne - Saturday 30 Nov This talented artist began his career over three decades ago with appearances on Junior Showtime, followed by a grounding on the tough Northern club circuit. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Winter Concert - Saturday 30 Nov Welwyn Garden City Male Voice Choir present their annual seasonal offering, with this year’s special guest Lara Harvey. Tickets at £10 (£8 for Friends of the Choir). Hawthorne Theatre, Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

A Mozart - Saturday 23, 29, Sat 30 Nov Mozart’s and laughter. The Barn Lane, Welwyn Garden

Much Ado about Nothing - Wednesday 27 Nov

by William Shakespeare, Traffic of the Stage Judi Bowker and Harry Meacher play the sparring lovers, Beatrice and Benedick, in this cautionary tale. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Beds Listings Halloween Happenings - til Friday 29 Nov Halloween Family Fun at the Chilterns Gateway Centre. Come along and join in the fun. Make a spooky mask, creepy spider or witches hat and much more. Give apple bobbing a try Chilterns Gateway Centre, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade LU6 2GY

Radlett Music Club presents: Lara Melda Pianist - Wednesday 27 Nov At the age of 16, Lara won the BBC Young Musician 2010 competition, performing in the final with Vasily Petrenko and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. She was a pupil at the Purcell School. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

The Dreamboys - Fit & Famous 2013 TourFriday 1 Nov The Dreamboys are without a shadow of a doubt the UK’s top male glamour show, perfect for a girl’s night out with your friends. Their showcase is unquestionably the most famous male stripper act Bedford Corn Exchange Main Auditorium MK40 1SL

Dr Phil Hammond - Games to Play with your Doctor - Friday 29 Nov Medicine is jolly serious, life and death, pain and suffering, pills and needles. But wouldn’t a trip to the doctor or a rush up to A+E be much more fun if it was a game? Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE

Female Vocalist Elicia - Friday 1 Nov Join in our Live entertainment with Female Vocalist Elicia.

Experience the beautiful natural sounding voice of Elicia as she presents music and songs that will delight you. Grosvenor G Casino Luton, 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

Christmastime - Friday 29 Nov Enjoy Christmas time at Gravelly Barn, work by local artists and craftspeople, painting, printmaking, textiles, photography, jewellery, ceramics, and glass work. Enjoy seasonal refreshments. Gravelly Barn, Gravelly Lane, Braughing SG11 2RD

Lee Nelson - Saturday 2 Nov I’ve hosted Live at the Apollo, sold out my three-times extended Lee Nelson Live tour, had over two million people watching BBC Three’s Lee Nelson’s Well Good Show and Lee Nelson’s Well Funny. Bedford Corn Exchange Main Auditorium MK40 1SL

Barb Jungr - Here Comes The Night- Saturday 30 Nov Described by the Rough Guide to Cult Pop as ‘arguably the finest cabaret singer in recent times’. Barb Jungr combines original

Buble Vs Bruno Showcase - Saturday 2 Nov Join us at G Casino Luton for a great night out with

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‘Buble Vs Bruno’ Buble Vs Bruno is a combined tribute show with Michael Buble and Bruno Mars.

Grosvenor G Casino Luton, 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

November at 11.30am. This unique family experience lasts just over 45 minutes and is the ultimate way to visit Santa. Enter our magic wonderland Frosts at Willington MK44 3QP

Firework Display - Saturday 2nd Nov Blunham Playing Field, 36a Barford Road, Blunham MK44 3ND

Dunton Folk - Kristy Gallacher and Luke Jackson in Concert- Saturday 16 Nov Dunton Folk’s first double header with two of the most talented young musicians on the folk scene. St Mary Magdalene Church, Dunton, Biggleswade SG18 8RR

Gamlingay Fireworks - Sunday 3 Nov The Gamlingay First School Association presents a ’Fireworks Spectacular’ @ the Eco Hub Bring the whole family to enjoy our professional display.

Eco Hub, Stocks Lane, Gamlingay SG19 3LW

Black Tie & Tiara Ball - Saturday 16 Nov Come and celebrate 60 years of incredible care at this year’s St John’s Hospice Black Tie and Tiara Ball.

This year’s milestone evening promises to be a fabulous night to remember. Park Inn, Bedford MK42 0AR

Shuttleworth Wedding Fair - Sunday 3 Nov Fantastic wedding fair at a superb venue set in 500 acres of parkland. Fabulous Fashion shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm Featuring great dresses from both Ivory and Lace, Toddington and Hinxworth Bridal.

The Mansion House, Shuttleworth Park, Old Warden Park, Old Warden, Nr Biggleswade SG18 9EA

Real Arts and Crafts - Saturday 16 Nov Craft fair featuring a wide range of high quality crafts including cards, jewellery of various kinds, ceramics, knitted and sewn goods, cakes, jams, pictures, and silverwork. Woburn Sands Memorial Hall MK17 8RH

Craft Fayre - Saturday 9 Nov Craft Fayre, Books, Cakes, Tombola, Woodwork, Cards, Forever Living Products, Children’s Books, Jewellery, Knitwear, Raffle & Lots More. Renhold Village Hall Wilden Road Renhold MK41 0LY

Christmas Fair - Saturday 16 Nov Traditional Christmas Fair -come and buy your presents: Cakes, plants, toys, craft stalls, gifts for Christmas. Refreshments + lunches - including bacon butties. Eaton Bray Village Hall LU6 2DJ

Poppy Prom - Saturday 9 Nov A concert celebrating the best music from The Festival of Remembrance and The Last Night of the Proms.

Featuring South Beds Concert Band, St Mary’s Choir and the Dagnall Community Choir. St Mary’s Church Eaton Bray LU6 2DJ

British Red Cross Christmas Fair - Saturday 16 Nov Charity Christmas Fair Many fine gifts ready for Christmas Handmade Jewellery, Chocolates, Toys, Books, Fashion & Outdoor Wear and lots more. Drinks and Cakes available. Erskine May Hall, Bedford School, De Parys Ave, Bedford, at the back of the John Bunyan statue. MK40 2TT

Cedars Christmas Craft & Gift Fayre - Saturday 9 Nov A great place to do Christmas shopping.

The fayre will have a festive feel with live music and with nearly fifty stalls. Cedars Upper School, Mentmore Road, Linslade, Leighton Buzzard LU7 2AE

Bedford Choral Society and Bedford Sinfonia In Memoriam Benjamin Britten - Saturday 16 Nov Pärt - Cantus in memoriam Benjamin Britten; Britten - Simple Symphony; Britten Rejoice in the Lamb; Britten - St Nicolas. Soloist: Andrew Kennedy; Bedford School Chapel Choir.

Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square MK40 1LE

Christmas Craft Fayre and John Bunyan Museum Open Day - Saturday 9 Nov A variety of craft stalls, charity stalls, children’s activities and much more. Take this opportunity to explore this historic church, have some tasty refreshments, get some lovely unique Christmas gifts. Bunyan Meeting Church and John Bunyan Museum, Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU

Biggleswade Antiques Fair - Sunday 17 Nov 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.The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade SG18 8JH

Ice Skating - Saturday 16 Nov to Tuesday 24 Dec Get your skates on .. the Ice Rink is back and it’s bigger and better! Open seven days a week you can experience the thrill of skating.

Frosts at Willington MK44 3QP

Christmas Craft Fayre - Sunday 17 Nov This Christmas craft fayre selling a wide range of products with over 60 stalls planned, selling fresh meat from our school farm, many local

Santa’s Grotto - Saturday 16 Nov to Tuesday 24 Dec Santa’s Grotto opens Saturday 16th

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Dukas The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Tchaikovsky Variations on a Rococo Theme Prokofiev excerpts from Cinderella. Bedford Corn Exchange Main Auditorium MK40 1SL

companies selling. Stratton Upper School, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade SG18 8JB Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails Theatre of Widdershins - Sunday 17 Nov Come to the magic land of three and find out some answers to those fairy tale questions you’ve always had. How did the pigs cope with the wolf; why did Goldilocks run into the woods? Cranfield Village Hall MK43 0DR

Bucks Listings Classic Clapton - Friday 1 Nov Nearly 2 Hours of Classic Clapton from the world’s No1 Eric Clapton Tribute band. Swan Theatre, St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE

Wrestling – Friday 22nd Nov starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets £7. See the Stars of wrestling live. www.wrestlingshow.co.uk. The Addison Centre, Addison Park, Kempston MK42 8PN

Archaeological Finds Identification - Saturday 2 Nov Every year thousands of objects are found by members of the public. Ros Tyrell will identify your finds and record them on the Portable Antiquities website. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

A Night with Elvis - Saturday 23 Nov Spirit Connexions presents Pete Webb as Elvis - Tribute Night Pete Webb is undoubtedly one of the most sought after Elvis impersonators. RAF Henlow Theatre, Henlow SG16 6DN

Christmas Craft Fair & Steaming Day - Saturday 2 Nov Christmas Craft Fair in the fantastic setting of the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre’s Visitor Centre - the former Oxford Rewley Road railway station - with unique historic exhibits.

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

Ravensden WI Christmas Fair - Saturday 23 Nov Santa Claus is coming to town! Well Ravensden actually! Bring your little ones along to meet Father Christmas in his very own grotto.

Ravensden Village Hall, Church End Ravensden MK44 2RL

Halloween Night - Saturday 2 Nov Come and ride our Ghost Train Caldecotte Miniture Railway, Caldecotte Lake, Bletcham Way, Bletchley MK7 8HP

St. Mark’s Church 19th Annual Christmas Craft Fayre - Saturday 23 Nov 10.30am. - 3.30p.m.

Grand Prize Draw - 1st prize a LED freeview digital television combi & various other prizes Entrance 50p.St Mark’s Church & Community Centre Calder Rise/Avon Drive Bedford MK41 7UY

Marlow Music Festival - Saturday 2 to Friday 15 Nov A two week music festival aimed at encouraging young people and adults to develop their talent and provide a forum for them to perform and receive feedback. Shelley Theatre, Court Gardens Leisure Complex, Pound Lane, Marlow SL7 2AE

Superstars of Wrestling - Saturday 23 Nov Over 2 hours of all action family entertainment with wrestlers from all over the world taking on the very best of Great Britain. So come see live what the rest of the world see on TV. Bromham Village Hall MK43 8JP

Steaming Day at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre - Sunday 3 Nov Buckinghamshire Railway Centre occupies an extensive site in rolling Buckinghamshire countryside. Exhibits range from large express passenger locomotives to the humble shunting engine Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY

Melchbourne Christmas Fayre - Saturday 23 Nov Join us a for a glass of mulled wine and other refreshments while you browse a great selection of stalls: • Pre-loved accessories • Village Pantry • Pre-loved books, china & glass • Home-made cakes. St Mary Magdalene Church MK44 1BB

Celebrate Diwali - Sunday 3 Nov Join Diwali celebrations at Wycombe Museum with music and dance, mehndi painting and craft activities.

Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Charity Christmas Shopping Fayre - Tuesday 26 Nov 6:30pm – 9:30pm Free Entry. Great Opportunity to buy some Christmas Presents, Stocking Fillers or a Gift/Treat for yourself Confectionary - I.T gifts – Handbags. Mount Pleasant Golf Club Station Road, Lower Stondon SG16 6JL

Fantastic Family Fireworks Night - Sunday 3 Nov Gates open 5:00pm. Professional Fireworks Display. Holtspur School Playing Field, Cherry Tree Road, Beaconsfield HP9 1BH

Philharmonia Orchestra - Wednesday 27 Nov Jac van Steen conductor Pieter Wispelwey cello

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John Lees’ Barclay James Harvest with special guests Gordon Giltrap and Oliver WakemanSaturday 9 Nov John Lees’ Barclay James Harvest is the modern incarnation of the legendary progressive rock band, led by vocalist and guitarist Lees, who co-founded the group in 1966. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU

Santa Claws. Tea, coffee & homemade cakes.

Free entry. www.mkcats.org.uk United Reformed Church, Newport Pagnell.

Christmas Family Fun Event - Sunday 24 Nov Traditional Christmas Light Switch On with Free kids rides, Free refreshments, Free entertainment including UK’s Hip Hop Champion dancers, cheerleaders, Holly Brewer, the best Olly Murs tribute. Theatre District, Central Milton Keynes MK9 3PU

Olney Vintage Fair - Saturday 9 Nov The fair takes place in the pretty stone built Church Hall, just yards from the busy Market Place. Olney is a very smart small market town, has numerous interesting historical connections. St Peter & St Paul’s Church Hall, Church Street, Olney MK46 4AA

Jason Manford - Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 Nov Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury HP20 1UG Traditional Christmas - Saturday 30 Nov and Sunday 1 Dec Special winter opening for a festive weekend. See the historic buildings festooned in traditional Christmas decorations.

Buy Christmas presents from our local crafts stalls. Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB

Alice in Wonderland - Sunday 10 Nov Proteus cordially invites you follow them down the rabbit hole to Wonderland for amazing adventures – oh, and tea, of course. Bringing their trademark fusion of music, physical theatre and circus.

Oasis centre, 9 Bell Street, Princes Risborough HP27 0DE

Santa’s Magical Adventure at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre - Saturday 30 Nov and Sunday 1 Dec Santa’s Magical Adventure at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. The fun starts the moment you arrive! You will be shown to your reserved seats on the steam train where you will be joined by Santa. Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY

Aylesbury Bellowhead - Monday 11 Nov Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury HP20 1UG Lillian Boutté New Orleans Jazz Concert Saturday 16 Nov New Orleans Jazz singer Lillian Boutté will be performing at Olney’s St Peter and St Paul church, which will include such classics as ‘Amazing Grace’. Orchard Side, Market Place, Olney MK46 4AJ Santa’s Grotto - Saturday 16 Nov to Tuesday 24 Dec Santa’s Grotto opens Saturday 16th November at 11.30am. This unique family experience lasts just over 45 minutes and is the ultimate way to visit Santa. Frosts Woburn Sands MK17 8UE Ice Skating at Frosts Woburn Sands -Saturday 16 Nov to Tuesday 24 Dec Get your skates on ... our Ice Rink is back and it’s bigger and better!

Open seven days a week you can experience the thrill of skating. Frosts Woburn Sands MK17 8UE

To be included in future listings Email: thesticks9@gmail.com

Wagner and Verdi - Sunday 17 Nov VERDI REQUIEM : Wagner Prelude to Die Meistersinger & Ride of the Valkyries Rachel Nicholls (soprano) Catherine Carby (mezzo-soprano) Peter Hoare (tenor) Milton Keynes Theatre, 500 Marlborough Gate, Central Milton Keynes MK9 3NZ

Putting ‘Listings’ in the subject line, giving

Cats Protection Milton Keynes & District Christmas Fayre - 23rd November 11am – 3pm. There’ll be Xmas cards & gifts, Cats Protection merchandise, crafts, books, bric-abrac and much more on sale. Play games, try your luck in the raffle and tombola and meet

15th November

details of your event and contact details.

Deadline for December/January Issue

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