Sticks September 2013

Issue 13 September 2013

In this edition of the Sticks Exclusive interview with David Richards the MD of The Dreamboys and Comedian Joe Pasquale BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace’s Platinum Awards We road test the Toyota Auris Touring Sports 1.8 The latest Kippings Food Column And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks

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Welcome to the September 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 David Richards Interview with comic Joe Pasquale Sales HR advice Civil partnerships and financial settlements Kippings Food Column Janey Lee Grace’s Column Road Test -Toyota Auris Touring Sports Listings for Herts, Beds & Bucks

Page 4 8 12 13 14 16 20 21

Contributors: Janey Lee Grace, Martin Wilson, Terry Sullivan Donna Obstfeld

See you in October 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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From Rags to Richards Hertfordshire’s David Richards has been in the Entertainment Industry for over 18 years now; he first started out in the music industry at the tender age of 13 years old after being signed into a massive recording contract. Unfortunately at the age of just 17 years old David's career was over after getting a singer’s worst nightmare "nodules" which are growths on your vocal cords and have destroyed many singers/celebrities careers.

Determined to remain in the entertainment industry David turned to dancing and modelling where he became the most photographed calendar male model in history.

David has graced the front covers of more then 50 calendars in his career and has been the face of more High Street calendars then any other male model in the World today.

In between modelling David was PA Managing some very well known music artistes including Lee Ryan, who is front man of the hugely popular boy band Blue After 10 years of modelling and PA Managing music artistes David turned his hand to a brand new business venture "The Dreamboys" The Dreamboys are now hands down the most successful male glamour/dance show in the World today. With over 10 Dreamboys Clubs across the UK and sold out World tours these boys are super hot and super talented.

The Sticks recently caught up with David to chat about The Dreamboys and his amazing life story.

How did you think up the concept of The Dreamboys? It was one of those crazy moments, I was sitting at home thinking, what am I going to do with my life. I fell in to it by accident, I remember that I was at a birthday party one night and they had hired a stripper-gram (this was many years ago) to do a performance for the birthday girl. He came and did the routine and it was like god had walked in, all the girls were just screaming. The men were booing and the girls going mad. I went home and thought I could do that, I had one of those moments. So then I thought about it then got a few mates together and created this group and it has turned into what it is today.

The noise at a Dreamboys show is like a concert times ten. It’s like the rock and roll lifestyle without the rock ’n’ roll. I was originally going to call them the “dream on boys” because I used to look in the mirror and think dream on. We always say it is what women dream of. Struggling financially I used my last £276 to set up a male stripper group, with its own website. In spite of undergoing keyhole surgery on my heart twice during this time, business began to take off, and just a few years later I have established eight Dreamboys Clubs across the UK. We now have 10 staff at Head Office, 90 Dreamboys on the books, and a 65 date UK theatre and concert tour in 2013. I go with the boys to every date on the tour.

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What do you think when people compare the Dreamboys to the American group The Chippendales? It is fine, it is not a bad thing but it is a very different show and concept, a lot of the Dreamboys are ex-gymnasts and trained athletes. The show is very high energy with back flips, somersaults explosions and fire etc.

You don’t perform with them now? No, not anymore, it is my creation and my company.

Now I get paid to keep my clothes on, I have to pay people if I want to take my clothes off!

You are not new to the entertainment business? No. I started off as a singer, and found an agent in the hope of making singing a career. Then I started gigging, and winning competitions, but the singing career was cut short too soon when I developed nodules on my vocal cords, which people like Tom Jones and Adel have had. Some people recover and some do not. They are growths on your vocal chords that are extremely hard to get rid of and hard to operate on too. So I was plagued by a singer’s worst nightmare. It still affects my voice now if I talk too much.

What did you do after that? I did a few little bits; I did a little bit of modelling as I had to make ends meet. I was a great model for socks, gloves and balaclavas (said with his tongue firmly in his cheek) Not wanting to blow my own trumpet but I was one of the most photographed calendar male models in history, gracing the front covers of more then 50 calendars and was the face of more high street calendars then any other male model in the world, but I try and play it down as people look at me now and say “what happened?”. Unfortunately gravity affects all of us. I did have a good stint at that, it was enjoyable. I also did some PA management for the likes of Lee Ryan (of the boyband Blue). I am still in touch with the music industry; I have a lot of friends in the business as that is where I originally come from.

Tell us a bit about your early life as it was not all plain sailing. As I always say to people it has not always been sunshine and rainbows. We hear so much about parents and bad parenting but I am not a big believer in that because I have seen people who were born with silver spoons in their mouths and end up on the train wreck. You cannot blame parents for the way it will turn out. If you want to be a criminal you’re going to be a criminal, that sort of thing does not wash with me.

I was one of three children; the family’s comfortable lifestyle was shattered when my father, a solicitor, was convicted of fraud and sent to prison (the fraud was a big one, the amount would be around £2 million today), leaving my mother destitute and living on a rough council estate. Unable to cope as a single parent, she left the family when I was only five years old and the three children were taken in by their grandparents. I went off the rails, and was expelled from school aged 13 and never went back, I hated school and never really fitted in, but instead turned my efforts to boxing, (I was a massive fan of Mike Tyson). Boxing taught me self discipline and respect, I know a lot of people think it is quiet a brutal sport but it teaches you to control your anger not lose your temper.

I ended up winning a number of junior championship titles along the way. To pay my way at home, aged just 14, I set up my own gardening business, doing odd jobs for neighbours. I guess that when being an entrepreneur began. I had a wheelbarrow and a load of garden tools and I use to go people’s house and do their gardens. I did this rather than go to school, some people think that education is the way forward but I am against that. People say that’s ridiculous but I say look at Sir Alan Sugar, Simon Cowell and Richard Branson - they never did well at school and all left early but look at them now, you have three of the most powerful businessmen in the -5-

world. So whilst the other kids were at school I was earning between ÂŁ50 and ÂŁ100 a week, which for a 14 year old back then was a lot of money. Goes to show people no matter what walk of life you come from you can make your own path.

I certainly wasn't born with a silver spoon in my mouth and I know what it's like to have nothing. I have come through some hard knocks but I've never given up on wanting to make my Grandparents proud and to show people no matter what cards are dealt to you in life and you can turn your life into whatever you want it to be.

The Dreamboys Fit and Famous Tour Alban Arena Friday 13th September Gordon Craig, Stevenage Friday 25th October Bedford Corn Exchange Friday 1st November Grove Theatre, Dunstable Wednesday 27th November www.dreamboystour.co.uk

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Ha,Ha Holmes Comedian Joe Pasquale talks about his latest starring role in Ha Ha Holmes The Hound of the Baskervilles

What drew you to Ha Ha Holmes!? Last year I did a touring production of Doctor in the House produced by Jamie Wilson. He’s been a fan of mine since he was a kid. That was the catalyst for our first meeting. We really hit it off and looked for another project to work on together. Jamie has been putting on Ha Ha! shows for years. But this year he wanted expand it by putting a name in it. I agreed immediately because the script made me laugh out loud.

Why were you so eager to take on the role of Sherlock Holmes? It's something so different from me.

All the roles I’ve played before have basically been me. The Nerd was very much me.

The Producers was me with an American accent.

Doctor in the House was me in a white coat.

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead was a layabout version of me. But Sherlock Holmes is a real stretch for me. But I’ve loved it. I've especially enjoyed working with Ben Langley, who wrote the play and co-stars as Doctor Watson, and Andrew Fettes, who plays everyone else.

You recently made your West End theatre debut as King Arthur in Spamalot – you seem to be doing more and more acting – is this the direction you are keen to pursue? I really enjoy new challenges. Bonnie Langford invited me to see the show and thought it was great and when the offer came to step into King Arthur’s shoes I couldn’t resist the opportunity and jumped at the chance.

I was delighted and surprised because I only had a six week window to do it in because of my stand up touring commitments, the Ha Ha Holmes project and the Sleeping Beauty Panto later in the year.

What do you enjoy about acting? I like the discipline of it. Stand-up is very different, as you can go wherever you like. In a play, you have to stick to the script more rigidly.

What I like about Ha Ha Holmes! is that it incorporates both disciplines. You can go off on a tangent about tortoises, but you have to come back to the script eventually.

Because we understand each other very well, Ben and I know how to bring it back to the script. We know when we’ve been doing the tortoise improvisation for too long!

Could you please outline the plot of Ha Ha Holmes!? In theory, Holmes is trying to find The Hound of the Baskervilles on the moors. There is a very long, involved story about a curse on a family, but ultimately that is pointless. It’s all about the deduction. It’s a really innovative, really funny play about Holmes’s methods of solving crimes, and audiences will love getting wrapped up in it.

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Why do you think Holmes works as comedy? The stories lend themselves to comic treatment. The relationship between Holmes and Watson is funny. Holmes is the master criminal hunter and Watson is his apprentice – there is great scope for comedy there.

Look at Guy Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes films – there is a lot of humour in them. Robert Downey Junior is a fantastic comic actor. We’re simply heightening what’s already there. It’s Monty Python meets Men Behaving Badly meets Sherlock Holmes.

Please describe some of the comic scenes to us. It’s a musical, and at one point the Hound and I sing “Hello” as a duet.

Obviously the Hound is just howling, while I’m singing, but you can’t really tell the difference! I think it’s a hilarious scene.

Will you be interacting with the audience on Ha Ha Holmes!? Absolutely. You have to be cold and analytical as Holmes, but there is no fourth wall in the play. You can ad lib, or leave it alone. There is a lot of improvisation. If an improvisation works, you keep it in the show. Improvisation is brilliant because it makes every night unique.

Do you relish improvising with Ben? Definitely. The great thing is that Ben is a really good comedian as well as an actor.

He’s a terrific performer and is supporting me on my stand-up tour. A lot of actors would be scared without a script and would not know what to do. But Ben started off as a street performer in Covent Garden and is used to going off on tangents. He will go with me, and that’s fantastic. The audience love it. When you ad lib it does make the audience feel special because it’s only happening on that one night.

Explain the set to us. It’s a really inventive show. The set is a lot of suitcases. In one scene suitcase becomes a table where we cook scrambled eggs and eat them. In another scene, it turns into a horse and cart.

Why do we love Sherlock Holmes so much? He’s such a popular character. People are fascinated by him. They used to write to 221b Baker Street asking him to solve their problems. Up until 2002, they employed a full-time secretary to reply to all the letters.

A lot of modern CSI-type dramas are based on this fictional character’s way of deducing crimes. In 2002, the Royal Society of Chemistry bestowed an honour on Holmes for services to analytical chemistry and forensic science, making him the only fictional character ever to be honoured. I have been watching Jonny Lee Miller in Elementary recently. It’s wonderful watching him unravel the crime. It’s like Columbo – click, click, click – it all falls into place. We all wish we could do that!

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Why has the character of Holmes enjoyed such resurgence recently? Everything is coming back. The last time they did a comedy version of Holmes was when Peter Cook played him in The Hound of the Baskervilles in 1978. Everything has come full circle.

They have brought back Dallas, Charlie’s Angels, The A Team, Shaft and Kojak. It’s great that a whole new generation of people is now discovering Holmes.

Tell us more. Guy Ritchie’s new steam-punk version has meant a whole new generation has found Holmes.

Those films have given the character a huge contemporary boost. But Holmes has always been incredibly popular. It’s funny because at one point Sir Arthur Conan Doyle became fed up with him. He wrote to his mother saying, “I’ve had enough of Holmes. I’m going to kill him off.” His mother replied, “If you do that, there will be a public outcry.” Conan Doyle said, “I don’t care.” So he killed him off in The Final Problem, but his mother was right. There was so much outcry, that the author had to bring Holmes back again. Holmes was like Bobby Ewing in Dallas, coming out of the shower saying, “It was all a dream.” The BBC has recently done the same thing with the Benedict Cumberbatch version. In the last episode, you saw him jump off a roof. I’m sure the writers will come up with some fantastic explanation for it. But it just goes to show that Holmes is a totally enduring character.

Finally, do you have plans to star in further Ha Ha shows? Definitely. If this goes well, we’re talking about Ha Ha Hood!, Ha Ha Hitler!, Ha Ha Houdini!, Ha Ha Hamlet!, and Ha Ha Hobbit!. Basically anything beginning with the letter H is fair game!

See Joe Pasquale in HaHa Holmes on Saturday 14-September Swan, High Wycombe Thursday 26-September Monday 30-September Tuesday 1-October

Gordon Craig, Stevenage Watford Colosseum, Watford

Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes

Wednesday 13-November Grove Theatre, Dunstable Saturday 16-November Waterside, Aylesbury

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by Donna Obstfeld

If you are in a sales environment, be it car sales, recruitment agency, estate agency or product sales, if you don't like the cut throat environment, the drive to hit targets and the penalties for failing to do so, then you are probably not in the right job! If you are happy picking up the phone, speaking to strangers, following up religiously and persevering when the going gets tough, the benefits can be highly rewarding. But what happens when the phone doesn't ring, when the sales fail to materialise and when you can't hit your targets? In some organisations this will mean that your job is on the line! What does your contract say? What does your company's policy say? What is custom and practice?

The key to managing the situation is to be very clear. Know exactly what is required of you and over what time period. Is it absolute or is there some flexibility i.e. averaging. Are your targets realistic and accurate? How are others performing? Are there changes in the external environment which are impacting on your ability to perform? These might include government policy / legislation, an economic downturn, a problem with the product or bad press.

As with many things at work, it is the way in which you deal with a situation which will generally help resolve any problem. As soon as you anticipate a problem, it is essential you flag it with your manager. Clearly identify the issue, the gap between target and actual achievement and the suspected causes. Discuss these with your manager, evidence your activity and it's impact, compare activity and outcomes to the previous period(s), put a plan in place for remedying the situation and get agreement from your managers (In Writing).

If a policy says you can be fired for failure to hit targets, then at the end of the day, there is not a lot an employee can do, but the company can not just fire you. They must follow a legal process and their own policy for dismissal, they should have held a number of meetings with you to discuss performance and there is a duty on employers to act reasonably. If you can prove that you have done everything possible, and the reason for the missed targets are outside of your control, you May have a case against your employers if they were to terminate your employment.

www.dohr.co.uk 01923 504100

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Civil partnerships and financial settlements The winner takes it all?

Same as married couples?

Court of Appeal Case Lawrence v Gallagher (Hearing 8th March 2012, Judgment 29 March 2012) In the first reported case The Court of Appeal has handed down a Judgment concerning financial orders.

Facts Peter Lawrence was a financial analyst employed by JP Morgan Asset Management earning £200,000 p.a. net and Don Gallagher was an actor. The parties entered into a Civil Partnership in December 2007 which lasted 7 months. They lived together for 11 years from 1997 prior to the Civil Partnership. Mrs Justice Parker ordered that Mr Gallagher should receive £1.69m which represented 42% of the total assets of some £4m The family home called Pine Cottage worth £822,000 was part of the award and Mr Gallagher was to receive the family home. There was also a second property which was owned by Peter Lawrence prior to the parties’ Civil Partnership which was worth £2.4m at the time of the hearing in June 2011.

There were also other assets to include Peter Lawrence’s pension pot of £580,000 and cash of £578,000.

The main issues in the case was to what extent should Mr Gallagher benefit from the property owned by Peter Lawrence prior to the parties’ Civil Partnership.

At The Court of Appeal, Peter Lawrence appealed and argued that the property he owned prior to the parties’ Civil Partnership should not be taken into account and the family home should be dealt with under the terms of the parties’ Deed of Trust where Mr Gallagher had a 38% interest.

Decision of the Court of Appeal The court confirmed that it is common ground that the principles are the same as if the couple had been married.

The court allowed Mr Lawrence’s appeal. Mr Gallagher’s award was reduced by £320,000 therefore receiving £1,367,000 or 33% of the total assets.

The case illustrated that the courts are applying the same principles for Civil Partnerships as they do for married couples.

If you have any questions concerning your legal rights in the event of the dissolution of your civil partnership, please contact our PANAY VASSILIOU on 01992 463727 or email him at panay.vassiliou@curwens.co.uk Curwens LLP is your local firm of solicitors offering most areas of legal advice – based in Hoddesdon, Enfield and Cheshunt.

Website: www.curwens.co.uk

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Whole sea bass cooked "en papillot" with white wine, lemon and garlic, roasted new potatoes and courgette

This is a dish that has proved very popular in the short period of time that we have had it on our menu.

Sea bass is one of my favourite fish and really well suited to the dish so deciding to use it for the dish was simple.

We have kept the flavours in the dish simple so as not to overpower the delicate flavour of the bass itself.

We receive the fish whole, scaled and gutted so once we have trimmed up the fins and tail it's ready to go, we stuff the body with fresh lemon and garlic before seasoning with sea salt and cracked black pepper before carefully encasing in a tin foil bag but not before adding a generous splash of white wine.

It’s very important to make sure the bag is sealed completely to ensure you keep all the flavours and steam in the bag as it’s cooked, we bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes and serve with roasted jersey royal potatoes and butter roasted courgette along with a good spoonful of the cooking liquor over the fish.

Sea bass is a superb sweet, white, textured fish. It is caught in the North Atlantic, from Norway to Senegal and closely resembles sea bream in flavour.

Sea bass is available whole and un-gutted, or in prepared fillets (you can ask your fishmonger to gut and fillet the fish for you). The skin is rarely removed and is also available frozen but is certainly at its best when fresh.

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The popularity of sea bass has threatened stocks in some areas and, like many other fish; sea bass is subject to a minimum landing size (it must have grown to a certain length before it can be legally caught). It is farmed extensively in the Mediterranean, which has kept the price low. Sea bass is available farmed all year round but where possible buy wild sea bass which is more expensive and available from August to March.

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

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I’m guessing that I’m not the only parent tearing my hair out trying to find pursuits for the kids during the holidays, if you aren’t careful we can turn into cab drivers as we ferry them from one activity to another and it takes a heavy toll on our wallet too.

Remembering back to my own childhood I was outdoors in all weathers and came home only when I was in need of a meal (I seem to remember snacks were banned too!) Its concerning that many children today are cooped up staring at screens and are suffering from ‘nature’s deficit disorder’. A recent poll of 1000 parents and children by Play England found that parents would like to let their children “play out” but over half are frightened of traffic dangers, around forty per cent stranger danger, and many more worried they might disturb other residents and being judged by neighbours for allowing unsupervised play The benefits of outdoor play are undisputed. Health professionals recommend children get at least one hour of aerobic activity a day. Many psychologists and researchers also emphasise the importance of unstructured play – exactly the kind of play that happens when children gather informally in streets or parks. It’s well documented that children develop the ability to “self regulate” so that they learn to wait, cooperate and pay attention.

So how can parents in Hertfordshire support their children to get outdoors and play in an unstructured way?

Hertfordshire parenting consultant Oona Alexander says: “Independent play can start when children are very young, from three months old. The important thing is that children lead the play themselves, and that adults stand back. My Five Top Tips for supporting independent play at home are: 1) Simplify the amount of toys your children have and put away those that are too complex or broken.

2) Ensure your children have enough playthings that invite play such as stacking cups, bowls, baskets, cloths, pine cones, balls, bean bags, pots and pans, bags, hats, play food, model animals.

3) Arrange your children’s toys invitingly before they start to play indoors or outside.

4) If your children start squabbling, give them a little time - they may be able to sort out the conflict for themselves. If you have to intervene, offer them strategies that will help them on another occasion. For example, you can say: ‘He doesn’t want to give it to you now but you can ask to have it when he’s finished.’”

5) Organise a ‘playing out’ session in your street. Herts County Council has a record of being generous towards requests for Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders. Two years ago Herts was the UK’s street party capital, holding more royal wedding street parties than any other area!

This month Oona is launching her new consultancy, Early Childhood Insight and offering a free 15 minute no-obligation ‘Insight Session’ on the telephone (07748 988293) to -16-

address an immediate parenting concern or question. For more free tips on how to support play and for more details visit www.oonaalexander.co.uk You may also want to check out Naturekids a small independent organisation in Hertfordshire providing specialist support for children through a holistic approach to health and education. Children learn primarily through experience and fun with an emphasis on being outdoors. Naturekids is ideal for gifted and individualistic children as well as those with Special Needs including Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Aspergers Syndrome, ADHD or Speech and Language Delay. www.naturekids.co.uk

The JANEY LOVES 2013 PLATINUM AWARDS For the Best of the Best in Natural Beauty, Health, and Wellbeing.

Janey Lee Grace, No 1 best-selling Natural health Author and Natural Living expert presents the 2013 PLATINUM AWARDS for the Natural Health and Beauty World.

Janey, her panel of Experts, testers, and consumers have scrutinised hundreds of products to arrive at a definitive list of the Best of the Best. Some Herts, Beds and Bucks companies were given accolades including Wholistic Research Company who won Highly Commended Online Store selling a brilliant range of products from Juicers through to sprouting kits and water filters (and SO knowledgeable and helpful. ) Garden On a Roll won the Most Innovative Home and Garden Product – it’s like gardening by numbers!

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In the Pregnancy category Herts based company Lillipops won the Best Pregnancy Product award for their flavoured ‘Soothies’ and the joint winner was Natural Health in Welwyn Garden City’s owner Julie Goodwin for The Haramaki – an innovative ‘Tummy warmer’ popular in Japan and brilliant for digestive problems, Julie also received a Highly Commended award for the amazing Bamboo Healing products – perfect for arthritis and joint health.

Skincare and Beauty Janey Lee Grace reminds us that ‘Our skin is the body’s largest organ – what we put on our skin goes within’ Tiny companies jostle alongside multi-nationals to compete for the prestigious awards. She has awarded the coveted Best Natural Facial Moisturiser award to a small company Celgenics for their Moisturiser Plus which is light non greasy and works brilliantly. Another small company Elenas Nature Collection won for their Night Cream Extra.

Both a wondrous functional food and an excellent body and hair moisturiser the Best Multi Purpose Body product award went to Tiana for the Raw Extra Virgin coconut oil. Tiana also were highly commended for their Anti Ageing Moisturiser – The Rose Fresh Coconut TLC, they were pipped at the post by Collgen Collagen Serum.

Some of the biggest established companies Weleda, Green People, Jason Natural Care have won awards again.

Make-up and Hair

Natorigin stormed the make-up categories yet again winning both Best Organic Lipstick and Best Mascara.

The award for the best Multi Purpose Make-up went yet again to Alva for the unique Green Equinox range which has a brilliant range of colours and can be used for eyes, lips and even nails! Konjac Sponge won Best Specialist facial product. Best Specialist Hair Product was won by BiOrganics for the Salon Secret Elixir Hair Perfecting Oil.

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Supplements Supplements were given an accolade too with Optibac winning Best Digestive Health Product – ‘For Maintaining Regularity’ and Viridian Nutrition won the award for Best Baby and children’s supplement for Viridikids. Best EFA support went to Cleanmarine Krill Oil. The unbeatable Cherryactive picked up the Best Health drink and Live Wheatgrass won Best Food Supplement for the Organic live frozen field grown wheatgrass in shot sizes delivered to your door! Janey says ‘My one stop health insurance!

Healthy Home Janey Lee Grace says ‘The average home is more polluted than a busy street – make natural choices!’

To that end Waterforhealth, Eco2life, Greenscents, Allergy Cosmos, Ecoegg, Greenfrogsoap, were all given accolades. Electro Magnetic Pollution is a big issue and Janey awarded a few companies for their innovative products including Bioprotective Systems, Sosatec Wellbalancers and Phoneshield.

Babycare Babycare companies were given recognition too such as Bickiepegs for the Best Teething product and the most innovative baby product went to Babycup for the perfect tiny weaning cups that don’t distort the mouth into odd shapes! The Best Pregnancy Product went to Lillipops Morning Sickness Remedy Iced Soothies (Janey says ‘beware the kids like them too!’)

Congratulations to all the winners!

For the full list of Winners in all categories go to www.janeyleegrace.com

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Road Test -Toyota Auris Touring Sports 1.8 (132) Hybrid Excel The Touring Sports is a contemporary estate and shares the same 2,600mm wheelbase as the hatch, but is 285mm longer overall – all of which goes into the rear end.

We think it is more attractive than its sibling with the rear third melting neatly into the front two-thirds to offer a hint of rakishness about it – and perhaps tempt you into believing that this is an estate with a sporting flair, as its name suggests. Impressively, the drivetrain and batteries have been packaged without compromising its luggage carrying capability.

Indeed the 1,658-litres available when the rear seats are folded, is best in class - with 530-litres available with the seats up.

Under the bonnet lies a 1.8-litre petrol engine that delivers 98bhp. The electric motor charges when you decelerate and brake. It achieves an impressive official figure of 70.6 mpg.

On the road the estate rides well. The steering presents a slight vagueness but the biggest problem is the hybrid powertrain: accelerate hard and the revs rise alarmingly and hang there until the gearbox catches up resulting in an agonising amount of unpleasant engine distress as the engine works strenuously to overcome the weakness of the gearbox. CO2 emissions are 92g/km ensure the Auris Touring Sports costs nothing to tax in its first year.

In £22,845 range-topping Excel trim, the Auris Touring Sports 1.8 Hybrid comes well equipped with electric heated and retractable door mirrors, dual zone climate control, part leather upholstery, heated front seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, dark tinted windows in the back, rain sensing wipers, auto headlights, smart entry and one-touch start.

Inside there is plenty of room upfront with enough adjustment for the seat and wheel to allow you to find the ideal driving position. Unfortunately, rear seat space is a little on the tight side. The dashboard is simplistic but lacks the elegance that can be found in the competition. If you are looking for a well-kitted, smoothriding estate car with class-leading loading ability, the Auris Touring Sports might be worth considering. But despite Toyota’s predictions of the hybrid being its biggest seller, this isn’t the model to go for unless low emissions are your number one priority. It lacks the torque and refinement to pull big loads and is noisy when it does. Ultimately, if you are buying with your head and not your heart and fancy something a bit left of field and different from mainstream rivals, it’s worth considering. But if not – steer clear, unless you are town-bound.

More details can be found at www.first4auto.com

Herts Listings

Doodley Bugs Summer Specials!- Mon 2 Sep Come along for some summer fun arts and crafts to keep your little ones entertained over the holidays. Suitable for children aged 2-7yrs.

Booking is essential! United Reform Church Hall, Vaughan Road, Harpenden AL5 4ED Hertford County Hospital: 180 years of Babies, Bed Baths and Bandages!- til Saturday 7 Sep An exhibition celebrating the 180th anniversary of Hertford County Hospital. Discover how the hospital has changed and developed since its opening in 1833 looking at the changes in surgery, medicine and nursing, the history of the building its self as well as many stories from past staff. Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain SG14 1DT Letchworth Collectors Market in the Arcade, Letchworth Town Centre- Sat 7, 14, 21, 28 Sep Every Saturday, Letchworth Collectors Market in the Arcade, Letchworth Town Centre. To book a table call 01462485990 Full details are on the site: www.letchworthcollectorsmarket.org Dancing Queen -Sunday 1 Sep Dancing Queen The Concert is an action packed party show featuring all the greatest hits from Abba, The Bee Gees and the biggest hits from the 1970’s.

With a fantastic cast of singers and musicians, Dancing Queen is the ultimate party show that will have the whole family dancing in the aisles.

The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Barkway Antiques & Vintage Fair- Sunday 1 Sep Fabulous fair set in the beautiful village of Barkway. Offering a wide range of 20 stalls selling anything from jewellery to pictures, furniture to clothing, with temptation at every table. Our vintage tearoom offers an array of freshly made homemade cakes, soups and sandwiches and refreshments. Barkway Village Hall, Cambridge Road, Barkway SG8 8BS Mercure Hatfield Oak Wedding Show- Sunday 1 Sep Come and meet all your Herts Suppliers under one roof! With two fashion shows at 12 pm and 2 pm Roehyde Way, Hatfield, AL10 9AF Ashridge Autumn Trail -Sunday 1 Sep to Thursday 31 Oct Join us for a seasonal Family Trail around the beautiful Ashridge Estate.

Answer questions along the way and earn your reward! Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT Beyond Bagpuss -- an Artist’s Journey -Monday 2 to Friday 27 Sep Paintings by Linda Birch.

Linda Birch, illustrator for the hit children’s television shows Bagpuss and The Clangers, is a renowned artist whose 40-year career is reflected in this wide-ranging exhibition.

Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW Hitchin Art Club 70th Anniversary Annual Exhibition- Tuesday 3 to Friday 27 Sep The annual exhibition from one of the first art clubs to be founded in Hertfordshire, celebrating its 70th anniversary.Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW Stevenage Family History Society - “Relatively Famous” - a talk by David Watt -Wednesday 4 Sep In expanding his family history beyond his direct lineage, Society member Dave unveiled a relative whose story encompassed vaudeville comedy, the ragtime revolution, the emergence of modern ballroom dancing, early film & wartime heroism before a tragic early death.

Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage SG1 1UP Sad Café -Wednesday 4 Sep Sad Café, one of the primary live bands of the 70’s & 80’s return for their first tour in many years. With songs such as ’Every day hurts’, ’My Oh My, ’Strange little Girl’, ’Nothing Left Toulouse’ and ‘I’m in Love Again’. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ Cork & Canvas - Add a splash of art to an evening out- Thursday 5 Sep Enjoy partying?

Enjoy being creative? Then join Cork & Canvas at a selection of local venues for an evening of fun & relaxation. Enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple whilst you create your very own masterpiece on canvas. Brookmans AL9 7QW Des O’Connor -Thursday 5 Sep Des O’Connor is today established as one of the world’s most popular and best loved entertainers. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see a true show business legend live on stage for a wonderful evening of comedy, laughter and music. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ Dancing Queen -Friday 6 Sep Dancing Queen "The Concert" is an action packed party show featuring all the greatest hits from Abba, Grease and the biggest hits from the 70’s.The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ The Key- Friday 6th, Saturday 7th, Thursday 12th, Friday 13th, Saturday 14th, Thursday 19th, Friday 20th, Saturday 21st Sept 7.30pm Ticket Prices: £10 / £8.50 conc. (Thursday only) Another Jennifer Cramer story sees her reunited with old school chums after the murder of their

there are still people who have never heard of Open Studios. It’s a time when Hertfordshire’s established, emerging and amateur artists open their doors. Various locations across Hertfordshire

mutual friend and heroine, Charlotte. We are in the days before the Second World War, with the British Empire at its height and travels to distant colonies play a large part in the mysterious death of their friend and mentor. Market Theatre, Hitchin

Peggy, Duke and Benny -Saturday 7 Sep Georgina Jackson - vocals/trumpet & Pete Long clarinet Nick Dawson - piano, Dave Chamberlain – bass, Anthony Kerr – vibes, Richard Pite - drums This show was largely created by accident when Pete Long was trying to formulate something new. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Hoddesdon Town Show -Saturday 7 Sep The Hoddesdon Town Show is now in its 4th year and gives the chance for locally based companies and organisations to promote themselves to the community. The event is free to visitors with a small charge for stalls and stands who will be sited alongside performances from local dance/theatre groups.

High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8TL

Born To Inspire-Saturday 7 Sep Come and spend a day at Spring Meadow Farm* on our 17 acre farm, far away from all the noise and rush and tear of life. This is a ’DAY FOR YOUTH’ where you can join in a variety of activities that we hope you will enjoy. Workshops In: Dance- hip and jazz, Art- drawing and 3D and Drama. Spring Meadow Farm, Whelpley Hill, Berkhamsted, HP4 2SX

The Kings of Swing - Saturday 7 Sep Three Vocalist pay homage to a bygone era with suits as sharp as Old Mackies Knife, wise cracks aplenty and voices that brought the great American Songbook to life. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ Comedy Club - Saturday 7 Sep Our monthly comedy night returns, with Stephen Carlin and Kevin McCarthy. Paul B Edwards is, as always, in charge. Licensed bar. Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Autumn Fete- Saturday 7 Sep Come along and enjoy browsing and buying at our ’first Saturday in the month’ event. Once again we shall have various stalls, such as homemade cakes and marmalade, fresh vegetables and fruit and eggs, bric-a-brac, cards, books and toys, and clothes for adults and children. Letchworth Free Church, bottom of Leys Avenue, on Norton Way South, Letchworth. SG6 3HS

Derek Acorah - Saturday 7 Sep With countless hours of spirit contact, one-to-one readings, numerous TV appearances and twenty years of live stage shows, Derek Acorah is unquestionably the most time-honoured and respected Spirit Medium in the UK today. Wolsey Hall, Windmill Lane, Cheshunt EN8 9AA

The Jive Aces -Sunday 8 Sep The Jive Aces have truly established themselves as the UK’S top jive and swing band. The band are renowned for their hot, swinging music and high-energy stage show playing songs made famous by such greats as Bobby Darin, Louis Prima and Sammy Davis Jnr. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage,SG1 1LZ

Potato Shindig-Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 Sep Children harvest their own free bag of potatoes from Willows Potato Patch and understand where the food they eat comes from. Plus a full day’s programme of farm village fun with farmyard animals, adventure play, fun fair rides, JCB Young Drivers Zone and bouncy castles. Willows Farm Village. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF

Hertfordshire Ladies Driving Challenge- Sunday 8 Sep The Fire Fighters Charity and Herts Air Ambulance will visit Nuthampstead Shooting Ground, to give women the chance to drive a once in a lifetime variety of large and unusual vehicles. Participants will be able to try their hand at manoeuvring a range of different vehicles such as fire engines.

Nuthampstead Airfield, Bulls Farm Cottage Nuthampstead, Royston SG8 8LS

Hitchin Food & Drink Festival - Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 Sep Don’t miss this year’s celebration of the finest food & drink our region has to offer.

With an array of local stall holders showcasing the best food & drink produce from the region, inspirational chefs cooking up a storm in our Creative Kitchen, and many more fun activities.

Hitchin SG5 1HP

The Little Hadham Antiques Fair- Sunday 8 Sep An established fair known for its wide range of quality antiques at reasonable prices. Stalls including china, glass, silver, clocks etc. Little Hadham Village Hall, Little Hadham SG11 2BP

Herts Open Studios - Saturday 7 to Sunday 29 Sep 25,000 printed brochures listing the venues have been distributed in libraries, galleries and other outlets across the county. Yet, surprisingly

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Sean Lock -Tuesday 10 Sep Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans. AL1 3LD

other piano.Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG3 3EW

Daniel Cainer’s Jewish New Year ChroniclesWednesday 11 Sep ’The Jewbadour’ returns to Radlett with his inimitable stories in song, performing new material and some old favourites. Since his last visit Daniel has been playing his funny, touching, and beautiful music to packed houses in the US, Australia and even Germany. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

British Schools Museum- Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 Sep Heritage Open Day: The British Schools Museum is open free of charge for Heritage Open Days. Visit the historic (II and II* listed) schoolrooms and classroom including the Monitorial Schoolroom (1837), Gallery Classroom (1853) and Edwardian / WWII classrooms (1905).

Cafe open for refreshments. Queen Street, Hitchin SG4 9TS

Boeing Boeing -Thursday 12 to Sun 15, Wed 18 to Sat 21 Sep Parisian architect and lothario Bernard has three beautiful air-hostess fiancées.

They’re all unaware of each other until the flight-schedule changes and all three arrive in his apartment at the same time. A fantastic farce guaranteed to get the Company of Ten’s new season off to a flying start. Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL

Fowlmere Farmers Market- Saturday 14 Sep 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, award-winning savoury pies, cakes, bread, handmade biscuits, artisan cheeses, preserves.

Fowlmere Village Hall, Chrishall Road, Fowlmere, Royston SG8 7RY

Lockdales Coins and Collectables Free Valuations and Buying-In Event- Thursday 12 Sep Bring along your coins and collectables for a free, no obligation expert valuation. You will also have the option to consign your goods to our auction or to sell them direct to us for a cash sum. Items that we are able to value are:- Coins, Tokens, Stamps, Banknotes, Medals & Militaria.

Baldock Community Centre, Simpson Drive, Baldock, SG7 6DH

St Albans South Signal Box-Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 Sep Heritage Open Day: The Grade II listed Midland Railway signal box built in 1892 has been restored and is fully open to the public.

It is the only signal box adjacent to an operational main line railway with public access.

Winner of the 2010 National Railway Heritage award. Signalling demonstrations. Ridgmont Road, St Albans AL1 3AJ Craft & Curios Fair -Saturday 14 Sep A monthly Crafts & Curios Fair 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, weather permitting. Free admission. Open 11 am - 2 pm.

For further information tel: 01992 582686 and ask for Connie. Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT

Coffee & Canvas - An alternative Coffee morning- Thursday 12 Sep Enjoy socialising and meeting new friends? Enjoy being creative? Then join Coffee & Canvas at a selection of local venues for a morning of fun & relaxation. Enjoy a cuppa & perhaps a cake whilst you create your very own masterpiece on canvas. The Dutch Nursery AL9 6ND From Debtors Prison to....National Treasure: The Life and Times of Charles Dickens- Friday 13 Sep This snapshot of the life and times of Charles Dickens, with selected readings from his most enduring works, is presented and read by the always popular Keith Baldwin. Keith Baldwin is a former Household Cavalry soldier and now also a retired Senior Police Officer. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Happy Birthday Hertford Museum -Saturday 14 Sep 2013 marks 110 years since Hertford Museum was founded and 100 years of the museum being located in Bull Plain. Celebrate these two very special birthdays with us with crafts and cakes!

Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain SG14 1DT Potato Shindig- Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 Sep Children harvest their own free bag of potatoes from Willows Potato Patch and understand where the food they eat comes from. Plus a full day’s programme of farm village fun with farmyard animals, adventure play, fun fair rides, JCB Young Drivers Zone and bouncy castles. Willows Farm Village. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF

Afternoon tea, with live music -Friday 13 Sep A delicious afternoon tea. Live music from our gorgeous baby grand. What could be more delightful? Join us for a traditional afternoon tea, with Mike Gifkins playing our lovely piano.

Schubert, Brahms, Fauré, Chopin and other popular composers for easy listening, some jazz,

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Albury Antiques & Interiors Fair- Saturday 14 Sep Antiques & Interiors fair, 10.00am - 4.00pm, refreshments available. Albury Village Hall, Albury, Nr. Ware SG11 2JL

Little Love’. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ Jackson Live In Concert- Wednesday 18 Sep Michael Jackson is one of the most influential artists of all time. His career spanned nearly five decades of music, and he was continually at the forefront of popular music. Jackson Live in Concert sees long-time fan and hugely talented Ben recreate the Michael Jackson experienceThe Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue Radlett WD7 8HL

Heritage Open Day -Sunday 15 Sep The Swords of Chivalry will be setting up a Medieval encampment within the castle grounds.

Experience how people lived long ago! The Castle will also be open to visitors, with activities for children. The Castle, Hertford SG14 1HR Stevenage Arts Wedding Show -Sunday 15 Sep Come along and meet all your Herts Suppliers under one roof! Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ

Superstars of Soul- Thursday 19 Sep Starring Ben E. King & Jimmy James in concert.

Accompanied by the Vagabonds, a fabulous six piece live band. They will perform songs such as ’Stand By Me’, ’There Goes My Baby’,’Save The Last Dance For Me’, ’Spanish Harlem’, plus many more. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ

Chilterns Festival -Sunday 15 Sep Come along to our annual festival to celebrate the different crafts, industries and wildlife associated with the Chilterns countryside. Enjoy a day of mouthwatering local produce stalls, fascinating craft displays, forestry demonstrations and children’s activities in the meadow. Meadleys Meadow next to Ashridge Visitor Centre HP4 1LT

Jackson Live In Concert- Friday 20 Sep Michael Jackson is one of the most influential artists of all time. His career spanned nearly five decades of music, and he was continually at the forefront of popular music. Jackson Live in Concert sees long-time fan and hugely talented Ben recreate the Michael Jackson experience Wyllyotts Theatre Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar EN6 2HN

The Hundred and One Dalmatians -Sunday 15 Sep Baroque Theatre Company Presents “The Hundred and One Dalmatians” By Dodie Smith, Adapted by Glyn Robbins Directed by Adam Morley Produced by Claire Bibby This well-loved children’s classic is perfect entertainment for all the family! Hawthorne Theatre Campus West, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

Jazz at the Arts- Friday 20 Sep A great night of jazz standards, funk and latin, with Andrei Pytaleu, piano; Trevor Whiting, saxophone; Rob Statham, bass; and Ronnie Fenn, drums.

Licensed bar. Come and chill out at the Arts Centre with some terrific music. Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Jackson Live in Concert- Wednesday 18 Sep Ben’s portrayal of Michael Jackson in his prime has to be the most vocally and visually accurate tribute to the King of Pop to have ever toured UK theatres. Ben is joined on the stage by his incredible band and dancers who perform all the hits. He’s got the look, the moonwalk and the voice! The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

A Taste of Honey- Friday 20, Sat 21, Mon 23 to Sat 28 Sep A Taste of Honey centres on Jo, a feisty young working-class teenager living with her ambivalent mother Helen in 1950’s Salford.

They live together in a disreputable part of town; Helen constantly looking for a way out of the drudgery she finds herself in. Barn Theatre, Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST

The One Hundred and One DalmationsWednesday 18 Sep Baroque Theatre Company presents: The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith, Adapted by Glyn Robbins Directed

by Adam Morley Produced by Claire Bibby. This well-loved children’s classic is perfect entertainment for all the family! Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

Herts Jazz Festival- Friday 20 to Sunday 22 Sep A collection of local and international jazz artists. Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

Rollermania- Wednesday 18 Sep The Bay City Rollers Story, with Les leading the way, the bands singles and albums reached the number one spot all over the globe. Join Us to hear massive hits such as ’Bye Bye Baby’, ‘Shang A Lang’, ’Summer Love Sensation’, and ’Give A

Purple Zepplin- Saturday 21 Sep Purple Zepplin are proud to pay tribute to the two greatest Rock Bands of all time, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin- Together on the same bill for the very first time!

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The Gordon Craig Stevenage SG1 1LZ

Theatre,

Lytton

20 other shows to be taken into consideration.

You are the Judge and Jury – Be merciful to the aged accused – He merely seeks to bring a ray of sunshine amid the dark clouds of life. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Way,

Pinocchio Saturday 21 Sep Steve Tiplady as Geppetto uses the objects of a carpenter’s workshop to tell the tale of the puppet that wants to be a real boy, and the puppet-maker who wants to be a real father. Pinocchio is carved on stage, brushes become a fox and the shadow of two saws transforms into a giant shark. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

The Vagina Monologues- Wednesday 25 Sep Eve Ensler’s hilarious Broadway and West End smash hit is back with an all new all star cast! Featuring the feisty Hollie-Jay Bowes (Hollyoaks), TV favourite Terri Dwyer (Hollyoaks, Grange Hill, Loose Women) and national treasure Diane Keen (Doctors, Ruth Rendell Mysteries). The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Great Gaddesden Food Fayre -Saturday 21 Sep The Great Gaddesden Food Fayre will be held in conjunction with the Great Gaddesden Flower Festival this year to create a fantastic event on the 21st September from 11am - 4:30pm. There will be food from local producers on offer, and stalls in aid of Friends of Great Gaddesden School Great Gaddesden School, Church Meadow HP1 3BT

Jack The Ripper - A 21st Century Investigation -Thursday 26 Sep The mystery of the 1888 Whitechapel Murders attributed to Jack The Ripper has captivated people’s imaginations for the past 125 years. Retired British Police murder squad detective and leading Ripper expert Trevor Marriott has now concluded a ten-year cold case investigation, the startling results. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Potato Shindig -Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 Sep Children harvest their own free bag of potatoes from Willows Potato Patch and understand where the food they eat comes from. Plus a full day’s programme of farm village fun with farmyard animals, adventure play, fun fair rides, JCB Young Drivers Zone and bouncy castles. Willows Farm Village. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF

Ha Ha Holmes -Thursday 26 Sep Ha Ha Holmes and the Hound Of the Baskervilles. Has the Beast bitten off more than he can chew when confronted by our crime stopping team? Will Holmes find his deerstalker and will the deer be happy when he does? Join us for this gripping comic caper starring Joe Pasquale. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ

Just Sing! present Exploring the Singing VoiceSaturday 21 Sep Just Sing! present Exploring the Singing Voice: from head to toe, a workshop which will give an insight on how the voice functions. If you are a professional or amateur singer, teacher, vocal coach, speech and language therapist, promoter of good vocal and singing health, or just plain curious. Lister Hospital Education Centre, Stevenage SG1 4AB

Masters of the House- Friday 27 Sep Don’t miss this musical feast featuring former stars from ’Les Miserables’, ’Evita’, ’Phantom of the Opera’ and other hit West End Musicals, performing in concert. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ Dinner For Eight- Friday 27th & Saturday 28th Sept, Thursday 3rd, Friday 4th & Saturday 5th Oct 7.30pm Ticket Prices: £12.50 / £10.50 conc. (Thursday only)A dinner party leads to an evening of comedy and tears and, for the characters, life will never quite be the same again, as fantasies, desires, guilt and secrets are carelessly revealed! This musical is a first for the Market Theatre but others are planned for future years.

Market Theatre, Hitchin

Taste of Stevenage Food Festival 2013- Sunday 22 Sep Come and celebrate Food and Drink with us for an amazing event! Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Show- Sunday 22 Sep It’s fun all the way as the "Purveyors of Cool" swing into town, with a sensational show featuring The Greatest Music Of The 20th Century! Wonderful memories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin & Sammy Davis Junior in a fabulous production that continues to be successful all over the world. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ

Sixties Gold- Friday 27 Sep Featuring record breaking Merseybeat band Gerry and The Pacemakers, The Searchers’, and the controversial P.J Proby, whose trouser splitting shocked the nation. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the 50th anniversary of when it all began.

Barry Cryer: Twitter Titters- Sunday 22 Sep In yet another farewell tour, Baz returns, having been charged with persistent joking and asks for

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Upbeat Beatles- Sunday 29 Sep This show will have you tapping your feet from the opening bars-dancing in the aisle, and screaming like you did in ’63 by the end. With songs that changed a generation, from the depths of Liverpool’s Cavern Club, to the Roof Top of the Apple building, the Upbeat Beatles will take you there.The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ

The Concert Hall, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ One Night Of Elvis- Saturday 28 Sep Lee Memphis King portrays Elvis Presley at his peak from the 50’s, the ’comeback special’ and of course the Vegas Years. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ Hertfordshire Mind Body & Soul Fair 2 Day Fair 28th & 29th September This 2 day event offers free talks on both days, lots of exhibitors including therapists, aura photography, crystals, natural products, angels, dreamcatchers, numerology, magnetic jewellery, soul counselling & reading, clairvoyance, sound taster sessions, plus lots more. Home made food available.

Welwyn Civic Centre, Prospect Place, Welwyn AL6 9ER

Vagina Monologues- Monday 30 Sep Eve Ensler’s hilari ous Broadway and West End smash hit is back, featuring three amazing actresses from the world of TV and Stage. The Utimate Girls night out. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ

Beds Listings

Potato Shindig- Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 Sep Children harvest their own free bag of potatoes from Willows Potato Patch and understand where the food they eat comes from. Plus a full day’s programme of farm village fun with farmyard animals, adventure play, fun fair rides, JCB Young Drivers Zone and bouncy castles. Willows Farm Village, Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans AL4 0PF

The Shuttleworth Collection Picture Treasure Hunt - til Wednesday 4 Sep There is a treasure hunt at The Shuttleworth Collection this summer, can you follow the picture clues and find all the treasure? You will receive a badge on completion and be entered into our prize draw to win a family pass to one of our Flying Days.

Children under 16 enter the Collection free. The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade SG18 9EP

Model Show - Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 Sep St Albans Model Engineering Society model show 2013 Free miniature train rides; Model locomotives & Stationary engines in steam; Model boats; ‘Have-a-go’ radio controlled model boats; Meccano displays; RNLI and visiting club stands; Helicopter and control line flying displays; plus a whole lot more. Townsend Church of England School, High Oakes, St Albans, AL3 6DR

Flitwick Antique & Collectables Fair - Sunday 1 Sep 9am - 4pm Browse through a wide variety of antique and collectable items from jewellery to militaria, from china to ephemera. With prices from 50p to £1000 we have something for every collector! Home cooked food served all day. £1 entry - accompanied children. Flitwick Village Hall, Flitwick MK45 1HP

Dotty The Dragon -Saturday 28 Sep Dotty is a baby fire dragon. She lives at the top of a mountain with her grumpy dad, Mr Dragon. In the village below, everyone fears for their lives, for dragons eat children! Or so they believe. But Dotty would never eat children. Not ever… One day she decides to pay the village folk a surprise visit. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Wyboston Lakes 30th Anniversary- Sunday 1 Sep Wyboston Lakes are turning 30! And to celebrate were hosting a family day event. Free entry, BBQ, magician, drinks tent, ice cream van, live entertainment, stalls full of goodies, fun competitions plus much, much more!

Wyboston Lakes MK44 3AL Sally Morgan- Wednesday 4 Sep The star of Sky Livings’ Psychic Sally on the Road; returns for another phenomenal nationwide tour. Sally’s warm and bubbly personality has attracted a whole new audience to the spiritual world. Many have been left astounded by her ability to deliver messages from beyond the grave Bedford corn exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL

A Midsummer’s Night Dream- Saturday 28 Sep Shakespeare’s most popular comedy takes place in mythical Athens and an enchanted forest.

There is a handsome fairy king, a misguided parent, star-crossed lovers, a weaver who’s transformed into a half-donkey, woodland fairies and elves. Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

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ABBA Tribute night at Wyboston - Friday 6 Sep The ABBA Tribute Night includes a three-course dinner in one of our party venues. The Tribute Band will take to the stage, entertaining you and your friends with all the favourite hits followed by a disco to dance the night away through to the early hours. Wyboston Lakes MK44 3AL

Friends Pow Wow - Friday 13 to Sunday 15 Sep Its back !! Native American PowWow featuring The Wild Band of Indians from Arizona USA. Singing, dancing, stalls and workshops. All drums welcome. A fun weekend event full of colour and spectacle with Native American drummers and dancers, demonstration hoop dancers, workshops. The Clophill Centre, Shefford Rd., Clophill MK45 4BT

Woodworks Festival - Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 Sep A celebration of all things Woodworks, crafts, local ales, kids activities, Pyrography, Folk and Roots music, nature, wildlife and...vikings! This family event never fails to bring in the crowds and always offers a new, different perspective on the Family Day Out. £8 for adults, £4 for under 16s.Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PS

Moot Hall, Elstow - Step into the World of John Bunyan -Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 Sep Heritage Open Day: 17th century market house set on the village green in Elstow. Collection of 17th century antiques and items relating to John Bunyan. Why not picnic or play self-organised games on the green? Moot Hall, Church End, Elstow, Bedford MK42 9XT

NICE 2013 Comic Convention- Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 Sep Bedford’s first ever comic convention! Featuring a star studded line up from the world of comics. Guests include Garth Ennis Adi Granov Alan Davis Doug Braithwaite Simon Bisley Shaky Kane Carlos Pacheco and loads more. Bedford Corn Exchange MK40 1SL

Bedfordshire Starlight Hike- Saturday 14 Sep After a successful first year, Starlight Hike returns and promises to be a star-studded evening! The 10k night-time walking challenge starts at 10pm at the impressive Moggerhanger Park. And in keeping with its celebrity theme, will be opened this year by actor Samantha Womack.

Moggerhanger Park, Park Rd Moggerhanger, Bedford MK44 3RW

Stondon Classic Transport Festival - Sunday 8 Sep Time 11-4 Free entry to the public Free entry to the classic cars. Register to enter a car email stondonclassictransportfestival@live.co.uk Afternoon of fun for everyone. Stondon Recreation Ground, The Pastures, Lower Stondon

Riseley Show and Fayre- Saturday 14 Sep A traditiional village Show with competitions for produce, flowers, cookery handicrafts and photography. There are categories for adults and children, these are supported and hotly contested! This year’s show will be opened by The High Sherriff of Bedfordshhire Mrs. D. Inskip.

Riseley Village Hall and Playing Field MK44 1DU

Walk with Wolves - Sunday 8 Sep Walk and feed the wolves - another unusual and truly amazing experience and one of our most popular events. We have run this event many times and always receive excellent feedback. Are you afraid of the Big Bad Wolf - probably, so now is a chance to confront your fears A428 between Bromham and Turvey

Tudor Willington -Saturday 14 Sep Heritage Open Day: These buildings are the remains of a Tudor manorial complex and visitors will be able to find out about them by talking to stewards or looking at displays. They are built of stone with stepped gables. Willington Dovecote and Stables, Church End, Willington, Bedford MK44 3PX

Happy Days are Here Again- Thursday 12 Sep From the producers of the very popular Remember When and There’ll Always Be An England shows comes another wonderful trip down Memory Lane, with over 60 of your all time favourite songs from the Fabulous 1940’s, The Rocking 1950’s and The Sensational 60’s. Bedford corn exchange, St Paul’s square, Bedford MK40 1SL

Bedfordshire & Luton Archives ServiceSaturday 14 Sep Heritage Open Day: Behind the scenes guided tours of the archive service - the county record office for Bedfordshire, first of its kind in England, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Find out what we have and how it may be useful to you. Riverside Building, Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford MK42 9AP

Limehouse Lizzy- Friday 13 Sep Renowned for an action-packed pyrothechnic-fuelled explosion of a show, Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy alive, well and dominating stages worldwide. The band has also added a tribute in their set to the late Gary Moore. Bedford corn exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL

Ailesbury Mausoleum & Crypt -Sunday 15 Sep This is a fine example of one of the first mausolea to be built in the country with the earliest parts being built by Thomas Bruce, a descendant of the legendary Robbie! The

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Mausoleum is in the churchyard of St Mary the Virgin, Maulden. There is parking close by. St Mary’s Church, Church Rd, Maulden MK45 2AU

from the West Gallery period, around 1700 to 1850. Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ

Biggleswade Antiques Fair- Sunday 15 Sep 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. Plenty of free parking and something for all antiques collectors. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH

Bay City Rollers Story -Wednesday 25 Sep Join original Bay City Roller Les McKeown and his four-piece band on this musical journey that draws on the story and music of the band from the early years as well as all the classic hits. The Bay City Rollers Story is a celebration of the songs, tours and TV shows of the band. Bedford corn exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL

Avizo String Quartet- Wednesday 18 Sep A concert given by this exciting group of young professional musicians. Music will be introduced with information about each piece. It will be a variety of classical and fun music. Please phone or email to reserve your tickets. Whipsnade Village Hall, off B4540, LU6 2LG

All Manor of Things - Medieval Manorial Merriment -Saturday 28 Sep An afternoon of family fun with games, re-enactments, displays and activities exploring life on a medieval manor. Willington Stables and Parish Church, Church End, Willington MK44 3PX Tudor Re-enactment- Sunday 29 Sep Tudor music, performances, dressing up and games at the National Trust Dovecote & Stables, led by the Melford Hys Companie. Church End, Willington, Bedford MK44 3PX

Upbeat Beatles- Thursday 19 Sep From the opening bars you will be dancing and screaming like they did in ’63, with songs that changed a generation-performed by the best Beatle band in the country. From the depths of the Cavern Club, to the roof of the Apple Building, a journey told through their songs, and their humour.

Bedford corn exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL

Bucks Listings Discover Dahl’s Archives at The Roald Dahl Museum- Sunday 1 Sep For 10+ years: A behindthe-scenes look at our archive store which houses Roald Dahl’s manuscripts and letters, with Collections manager and archivist, Rachel White. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Real Arts and Crafts- Saturday 21 Sep Craft fair featuring a wide range of high quality crafts including cards, jewellery of various kinds, ceramics, knitted and sewn goods, cakes, jams, pictures, silverwork. Goods on sale have been made by stallholders or a member of their partnership. Woburn Sands Memorial Hall, MK17 8RH www.supportbritishhandmadecrafts.co.uk

Parklife- Sunday 1 Sep Aylesbury’s popular Parklife event returns to Vale Park and it’s all free! The free fun starts at 12.30pm, with entertainment and activities on the main stage and in the park. There’ll be an exciting programme of performance and demonstrations from local groups, Vale Park, Aylesbury HP20 2QP

Music from the Land of Don Quijote- Saturday 21 Sep Iberian music, both folksy and courtly, from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, performed by Galliarda - Sara Stowe, soprano and percussion; Ian Gammie, viola da gamba; Wendy Hancock, baroque flute, recorders and viol; Richard MacKenzie, baroque guitar and theorbo. Leighton Buzzard Theatre, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard LU7 1RX

ONE NIGHT STAND - Monday 2 Sep Amateur Stand Up Comedy in Beaconsfield Bucks. If you fancy trying your hand at Stand Up Comedy email us at laff@mail.com Or come along and have a laugh anyway.

Sorry, no under 18s.

Beaconsfield HP9 1AH

Dunstable Town Fayre-Saturday 21 Sep 10 am to 4.00 pm. Traditional family event, with dog shows, craft stalls and children’s activities.

Priory House and Gardens, Dunstable

Matilda’s Back to School Bookmarks at The Roald Dahl Museum- Tuesday 3 Sep For 5+ years: make a bogsquiffling bookmark all ready for the beginning of a new school year. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Bedford Gallery Quire - 10th Anniversary Celebration Singing Day -Saturday 21 Sep Bedford Gallery Quire is a community music group consisting of singers and instrumentalists performing three and four part musical pieces

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A Family History Talk for Beginners Wednesday 4 Sep David Foster takes a journey through the key records used in family history research. Using examples from his own family and research he builds a family tree using census, parish registers, birth, marriage and death certificates, newspapers, wills and monumental inscriptions. Methodist Church Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2HB

Middleton Hall, the centre:mk, Central Milton Keynes Shopping Centre MK9 3ES Day Out With Thomas at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre- Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 Sep Trains will be pulled by Thomas the Tank Engine™, under the watchful eye of Sir Topham Hatt the Fat Controller. This event is an excellent day out for all Thomas fans and there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy.

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

Jumbly Giraffes and Catasterous Crocs at The Roald Dahl Museum- Wednesday 4 Sep Drop-in craft activity for all ages: colour and decorate whichever animal suits your mood! 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Mischief and Mayhem Craft at The Roald Dahl Museum- Saturday 7 Sep, Sun 8 Sep, Sat 14 Sep Drop-in craft activity for all ages: join in with our mischievous free craft activities all ready for Roald Dahl Day. Invent a new trick for Mrs Twit to play on Mr Twit, or a new clever juicy-childcatching plan for The Enormous Crocodile.81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Milton Keynes Comedy Club- Friday 6 Sep An evening of traditional stand-up comedy featuring some of the best acts on the UK Comedy Circuit in the stylish settings of Wonderworld. The Comedy Cow is aimed at comedy lovers and is suitable for anyone aged 18-118. All of our nights feature 5 comedians and this bill features: Headliner: Simon Munnery Compere: Jarlath Regan Opener: Harriet Kemsley PLUS 2 up-andcoming acts: Chris Chopping and Phil Alexander You can choose between theatre style seating, table seats or an exclusive booth for you and five friends. For full details and to read the house rules visit www.thecomedycow.co.uk Doors Open: 7:30pm, Last Entry: 8pm, Show Finishes: 10:40pm Tickets from £8 Strictly 18+ Wonderworld, Xscape, Milton Keynes MK9 3XS

Chearsley Classic Car & Fun Day -Sunday 8 Sep A fantastic free day for all the family featuring classic cars from a bygone era. There will be children’s rides; pet’s corner; art and crafts as well as plenty of food and drink. There will also be a car boot sale on the day. Everyone is welcome and there will be free parking.

Chearsley Cricket Club, Winchendon Road, Chearsley HP18 0DW Westbury Arts Centre-Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 Sep Heritage Open Day: Westbury Arts Centre’s 17th-century farmhouse will be open to the public, with exhibitions and events taking place all weekend. Photography exhibition, film screenings, Shakespeare performance and much more. Check www.westburyartscentre.co.uk for further details. Milton Keynes MK5 6AA

PINK FLOYD Experience- Saturday 7 Sep UK Pink Floyd Experience aim to perfect the atmosphere of the great Pink Floyd in concert.

Selections from the whole Pink Floyd back catalogue are featured in two different shows: The "Pulse Show" is based on the Gilmour led 80’s and 90’s touring band. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre HP20 1UG

10th Cock & Bull Real Beer Festival- Friday 13 and Saturday 14 Sep Back with two dozen more beers and ciders (many of them local), Fairtrade wines and juices, "Devine" food, and (on Saturday evening) live music. Free entry. More fun than you can shake a lager at. York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ

Country Fayre- Saturday 7 Sep One day fayre showcasing country craft, machinery and parklands animals. Exiting news for this year the fayre will have The Co-operative Membership Eco Area featuring stalls and information about green living. Campbell Park, Milton Keynes centre MK9 3NZ

Tiny Talk Time: The Three Little Pigs- Friday 13 Sep The morning sessions are repeated in the afternoons. Please book as there are limited places. A special time at Wycombe Museum for the under fives. Enjoy stories, trails and craft activities, inspired by the Museum collection and gardens. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

MK Handmade & Vintage Weekend Extravaganza- Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 Sep Forget Brighton or Camden! Milton Keynes has one of the biggest handmade and vintage events in the country, where we transform the huge in door area in front of John Lewis in Central Milton Keynes shopping centre into a VAST treasure trove, showcasing 120 of the finest authentic handmade and vintage.. In front of John Lewis,

The Archduke and the Assassins - a new play

by Andrew Willment -Friday 13 Sep Performed

by Chesham Bois Catholic Players this new play

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wonderful Tudor dance in authentic style costume. Market Square and Bucks County Museum HP20 2QP

brings to life the extraordinary historical events of 1914. A group of Bosnian youths wanted to free Bosnia from the occupation of the AustroHungarian empire. However, through ill luck, fate and a fair amount of incompetence.The Little Theatre by the Park, Church Street, Chesham HP5 1HU

Medieval Family Fun Day -Sunday 15 Sep Heritage Open Day: So much to see and do on our beautiful and historic site: fun and authentic re-enactors; arts & crafts; heritage crafts; havea-go archery; falconry displays; face painting; bouncy castle and more. Refreshments include hog roast, tea room and fully licensed bar. Milton Keynes City Discovery Centre, Bradwell Abbey, Milton Keynes MK13 9AP

Organ Festival- Friday 13 and Saturday 14 Sep Family day out - indoor & outdoor event. All the sounds and spectacle of the fairground organ, hand turned organs and model steam engines.

Marching bands all weekend and brass band concert on Sunday! Milton Keynes Museum, McConnell Drive, MK12 5EL

What’s in Mr Twit’s beard?- Sunday 22 Sep Drop-in craft activity for all ages: make a drawing of all the disgusterous things you would find in Mr Twit’s beard. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Music Contest In Milton Keynes – Open Mic UKSaturday 14 Sep Music Contest In Milton Keynes Sign up for the music contest in Milton Keynes today and get 50% off the entry cost!

Looking to enter a music contest in Milton Keynes? Auditions for the exciting music contest in Milton Keynes, Open Mic UK, are coming soon!

The music contest in Milton Keynes is being brought to you by Future Music who are responsible for bringing us acts such as Birdy, Lucy Spraggan, Hatty Keane and Jahmene Douglas. To enter the Music Contest in Milton Keynes, go to: www.openmicuk.co.uk £5. MKCC MK6 2TG

Revolting Rhymes at The Roald Dahl Museum Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 Sep For all ages: to celebrate National Poetry Day on 3 October, our swishwiffling storytellers will be performing poems from Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes throughout the day. Afterwards, head to George’s Crafty Kitchen to decorate pictures from the stories. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP13 0AL "Miss Julie" by August Strindberg -Monday 30 Sep Following highly acclaimed performances this Spring, UK Touring Theatre continue their national tour of the World Premiere of an exciting new English translation of Miss Julie - a tale of lust, class conflict and boundaries broken. Stowe School, Stowe MK18 5EH

Special Event: The Tudor Fair at Bucks County Museum- Sunday 15 Sep Go back to Tudor times in celebration of Aylesbury’s historic Charter Day. Tudor themed activities and entertainment in the Museum Garden and Market Square. In partnership with Aylesbury Town Council. Bucks County Museum and Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP Spectacular Wedding Show - Sunday 15 Sep If you are looking to plan a Magical Day without the drama then this Wedding Show is for you!

Located within a truly unique Venue and with 100’s of ideas from local supportive Wedding Suppliers you are sure to be inspired for your Wedding Day. 300 Goodie Bags for the first Brides to arrive. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury HP20 1UG

To be included in future listings Email: thesticks9@gmail.com Putting ‘Listings’ in the subject line, giving details of your event and contact details.

Tudor Fayre and Charter Day- Sunday 15 Sep Take a trip back to Tudor times and celebrate a little bit of history, and get a real feel for Tudor life. There’s a whole host of music, fun and activities for the whole family to enjoy. This year Broughton Junior School will be

Deadline for October Issue 15th September

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