Sticks September 2014

Issue 23 September 2014

In this edition of The Sticks Exclusive interview with Chas Hodges of Chas & Dave fame Win tickets to see Viva La Drag Our new Hero Cheese of the Month BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace’s Platinum Awards We review The Swan at Salford We road test the Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks -1-

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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 Chas Hodges Curwens Column Win tickets to see Viva La Drag Better and Better, Higher and Higher Art Column Reflections on Spiritual Development Car Test – Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV Janey Lee Grace‘s Platinum Awards The Swan at Salford Big Barn Food Column Hero Cheese of the Month Listings – Herts, Beds & Bucks

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Contributors: Janey Lee Grace, Terry Sullivan Donna Obstfeld, Andrew Merritt-Morling, Julie Sale, Sharon Struckman

See you in October!

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

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

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Exclusive interview with Chas Hodges Chas Hodges is a musician and singer, probably best known for being one half, and lead vocalist, of the musical duo Chas & Dave. He currently lives just outside Stevenage in Hertfordshire.

What did you do before joining up with Dave as Chas and Dave? They recently did a nice documentary on BBC 4 where they went all through my career, right through from the early days when I was with Mike Berry and the Outlaws and touring as Jerry Lee Lewis’s bass player, and Gene Vincent. Then I joined Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers, toured with the Beatles, then joined Albert Lee’s band “Heads, Hands and Feet” - so quite a bit! I knew Dave for about 8-9 years before we decided to get together and all that time I was doing all that. I did a show just on my own recently at the Borderline in London, it was a show with all the acts that recorded with producer Joe Meek that included playing with Cliff Bennett. I also go gigging as Chas and his band.

You must have some great stories about Jerry Lee Lewis etc? I wrote my autobiography called “All About Us” and the first part is Chas before Dave - all the stuff I had done up until me and Dave got together, the other one is the Chas and Dave story. I really enjoyed writing that and you can read read all the tales in there.

You also played in a band called the Rockers along side Roy Wood, Phil Lynott and John Coghlan? Yes that’s right and I have become a friend of Roy’s, I think I first met him when I was with Cliff Bennett and he was with the Move. Roy told me the story of their song Flowers In The Rain (the first record ever played on Radio One) - it was during Harold Wilson’s government and the tax laws and he gave the royalties away so he makes nothing out of that song.

Is it true you learnt to play the piano by watching Jerry Lee Lewis? Yes I had started to learn before that. I was a bass player and had started to learn on me mum’s piano by watching her, I learnt a couple of bits and I made a start on the piano and when I was on tour with Jerry Lee just watching him everynight and then I used to try it out as soon as the gig had finished - I used to jump on the piano and think that’s how he does that bit.

So I always say he taught me the piano which he did but he did not know he was - it was just me watching him, what a great teacher! A lot of people don’t realise how good a piano player he is.

Are you still a Spurs fan? Yes I was born a Spurs fan as I was born almost outside the ground and in those days you suported the team that was local to you.

You’re back on the road again after deciding to retire from touring together? No I never decided to retire, I am never going to retire, feel like I am going to live forever. Dave packed up when his dear wife died in 2009 but I carried on, as Chas and His Band and I still do the odd show, in fact I did one last Saturday for Charity in an old place my mum used to play in Edmonton, as time’s gone on Dave has felt a bit easier and he has come back to do a few gigs, it all works well together.

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You did a charity single for the Premier League Darts recently? That’s right, Barry Hearn who we met years ago when we did “Snooker Loopy”. He rung me up and said “let’s have a meeting somewhere I’ve got an idea. I now manage all these darts players” and to cut a long story short I wrote this song “I Got My Ticket for the Darts” - it done alright and the royalties are for the children’s hospice in Woodford, had some fun doing that.

Which is your, passion the darts or the snooker?

Neither, I just like the music we did for it!

There is an old myth going round that you were involved in the Fools and Horses theme tune, is it true? There is truth in it; John Sullivan originally wanted us to do the music for it, but at the time we were in Australia. “Ain’t No Pleasing You” was number one and just everything was happening, but in those days, unlike today where you through the internet could record it anywhere, in those days the communication was not so easy. Basically, we said we would do it if we could write it but it was already written so that’s the main reason we did not do it. It turned out to be John himself singing on it. We met John later on and he became a good friend and we actually did a version that was played on Capital Gold and he rung me up afterwards and said “that’s the way is should had been done”. On a Fools and Horses episode “The Jolly Boys Outing” John wanted to use our song Margate so we took Del Boy and Rodney in to the studio and recorded a special version which they used on the show.

You have recently recorded a solo album? Yes, I went to the Western Star studios in Bristol, it features tracks from all the people I have worked with over the years, it is titled “Together We Made Music” it has songs in tribute to Cliff Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis and Gene Vincent.

How would you describe your musical style? Well it is honest, unlike early in my career when I was singing in an American accent and I changed and that was the beginning of the “Rockney” style and I write songs about things I knew and when I got together with Dave I said to him, I have an idea about writing songs, so it is honest, good entertainment and we pride ourselves on being good musicians so it can last forever which it has. We have never been fashionable or unfashionable we have never gone with the trends. I do have affection for the music hall as mum played the piano and my uncle Alf singing all Harry Champion songs and that was one of the things me and Dave had in common when I first met him.

Away from the music business what do you do for a hobby? I have an allotment and have written a book about keeping one called “Chas and His Rock and Roll Allotment” See Chas and Dave on tour at Watford Colosseum on Saturday 13 September Bedford Corn Exchange on Thursday 16 October Aylesbury Waterside on Thursday 20 November www.chasndave.net 5

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DOES DIVORCE ALWAYS MEAN ATTENDING COURT? Family breakdown is unfortunately a common occurrence. There is no way of completely eliminating any stress or cost from the process. However, it is possible to deal with any issues in an amicable and cost-effective way without attending any court hearings.

What are the options ?

To obtain a divorce, there has to be an order of the court (Decree Absolute) made at some point.

However, this can be a paperwork exercise with no-one having to attend any actual court hearings.

To resolve any issues regarding children and finances, there are plenty of alternatives to ending up in court:(1) Mediation You and your ex-spouse meet with a specially qualified Family Mediator who helps you find a constructive way in which to talk through the issues, and try and find an agreed solution. There can be as many meetings as needed, but usually you would expect 3 or 4.

(2) Collaborative Approach You and your ex-spouse each instruct a specialist Collaborative Lawyer and everything is discussed at round table meetings. Instead of lengthy letters between solicitors, minutes of the meetings are agreed and circulated, and if there are any urgent matters, the lawyers would usually try and resolve them quickly by telephone.

You can have as many round table meetings as you want, but you would usually expect a minimum of three. The Lawyers will bring in other experts if needed – such as Financial Neutrals or Family Consultants – to assist with financial advice or emotional support respectively.

(3) Arbitration You and your ex-spouse jointly instruct an experienced and specially trained Family Arbitrator who acts as a private judge - giving a decision on the particular issue you have raised with them. The details of what evidence you each provide and how the decision will be made are agreed in advance.

Are these Alternatives Binding on us ?

Any agreement you reach within Mediation, the Collaborative Approach, or through Arbitration can be put into formal terms to become a legally binding court order on you both. Again, this does not require anyone attending a court hearing, but simply the papers being approved and sealed by a family Judge.

It is important to find the right approach for you and your ex-spouse. There is lots of useful information at www.resolution.org.uk (the national body of family lawyers and other professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes) If you would like more specific information on divorce or the alternative approaches suggested, please contact: amanda.thurston@curwens.co.uk Curwens have offices in Royston, Hoddesdon and Enfield.

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Win a pair of tickets to see VIVA LA DRAG! With special guest Sam Buttery of BBC1’s The Voice

We've teamed up with the producers of brand-new stage show Viva la Drag! to give a lucky reader/listener the chance of winning a pair of tickets to see the spectacular production at the Grove Theatre Dunstable, on Saturday 18 October~ 8pm.

Directed by Kylie Minogue’s creative director, featuring songs especially composed by Boy George, starring Sam Buttery from TV’s The Voice, the latest hit show from London’s West End – Viva la Drag! – is coming to town.

If you’re ready to party like you’ve never partied before, Viva la Drag! comes fresh from a critically-acclaimed West End run. It’s the ultimate girls’ night out. . . with added extras!

The outrageous party night stage show to die for packs in more chart toppers than any other. Glee-style mash-ups blend classic hits with current No1s: Single Ladies, Stop in the Name of Love, Car Wash, Rolling in the Deep, Survivor, We are Family, songs by the Andrew Sisters and scores more.

Starring sweet harmonies, wondrous costumes and cutting-edge variety – including exquisitely-ripped male eye-candy – the famous dragtacular boasts real musical pedigree: directed by Kylie Minogue’s creative director; songs especially composed by Boy George; musical direction from No1 hit songwriter for the Sugarbabes, Emma Bunton and Kylie; vocals by arranger to Girls Aloud and Danni Minogue, costume design by Kylie’s famed world tours team.

Viva la Drag! charts the rise from rags to the queens of drag of an all-male/female close harmony group. Their razor-tongued manager navigates band splits and solo hits, against a backdrop of glitz, hits, fun and kitsch in the show of the year. Over-16s advised.

To win tickets please answer this simple question: Viva la Drag is coming to which local theatre? The first entry drawn will win a pair of tickets to the show.

Send your answer by email with your name, address, email address and daytime phone number to: thesticks9@gmail.com Closing date: Noon Wednesday 15th October The prize will go to the first entry drawn on 15th October. There is no cash alternative.

Usual your publication rules apply. Editor's decision is final.

To buy tickets contact: The Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Dunstable LU5 4GP Tickets: £21.50 Concessions £19.50 Box office: 01582 60 20 80 grovetheatre.co.uk easytheatres.com Facebook.com/VivaLaDrag Twitter.com/VivaLaDrag 8

Better and Better, Higher and Higher As business owners, we should always be striving to improve our business; as individuals, we should always be striving to improve ourselves. The number of self help books and business improvement books being sold not only in the UK, but across the world, continues to sky rocket and all in the interest of making us, our children or our businesses better.

So why is self improvement so important? What is it that drives people to perform better, look better or feel better?

If I had the answer to that question, then I could probably also be selling books – but I don’t, so here I focus on employees and their needs for self improvement and career progression.

Employees need and want to feel valued, no matter what level of job they perform or where they are in their career. A lot of employees are also fickle, so treat them badly and the best are the first to jump ship, as they find alternative jobs more easily.

However, treat them well and they will keep on giving. So how do you treat staff well?

Pay them; recognise their contribution, their value and their career and personal aspirations?

Going back to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, once people are getting the basic pay they need to feel they are being paid what they are worth, other needs will kick in.

Where the office is based, whether there is travel involved, how much work life balance can be achieved, the social life, the office environment, parking spaces, company car, healthcare, green credentials, career development opportunities and so on.

As an employee, it is worth thinking about where you are on your hierarchy of needs. What you want from an employer, what you need from an employer and what would make you chose between two identical jobs with equal pay.

As appraisal season approaches, as many businesses begin to think about budgets for next year, as an employee, you need to take a step back and evaluate what help you need to feel better and better within yourself and move higher and higher within your career.

DOHR is an HR practice working with the business, education and charity sectors to “make the workplace a better place to be”.

01923 504100 www.dohr.co.uk enquiries@dohr.co.uk 9

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PS ARTS AND SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE WILL BE HOSTING 17 TALENTED ARTISTS FOR THIS YEARS HERTS VISUAL ARTS OPEN STUDIOS Herts Visual Arts open studios start on 6 September until the 28 of September this year.

This annual art extravaganza encompasses the whole of Hertfordshire which becomes a gallery! 154 artists exhibiting in 94 unique exhibitions! Artists from the width and breathe of our beautiful county open up their home, studios and art galleries are bulging at the seams with all their talent.

PS Arts gallery is no exception. This year, they have 17 artists exhibiting under their roof; from Ceramics, jewellery, sculptures, photography, textiles to amazing oils, acrylics and watercolour paintings; it’s a magnificent display of vibrant colour and talent.

For nature-lovers enjoy Jane Sleator’s perfect ceramic pieces which are thrown on the wheel and then decorated with wood bark designs that resonate and work well for modern and traditional interiors. Michael Cull’s oil and acrylic figurative and amazing abstract work are definitely not to be missed. If you love animals, Sue Patient working in oils, acrylic and graphite pencil cleverly brings out the personality and soft textural characteristics of her subjects: she specialises in animal portraits or discovers the unique work of Jenny Leslie, a textile artist that uses nature to create her fabulous scarves and other textile items.

As part of open studios, Linda Lipinski, artist and Sculptor will be exhibiting in Southern Hemisphere exhibition centre with her fantastically inspired solo African art exhibition entitled; “Khanya” bringing light to the Southern Hemisphere. This exhibition show cases her amazing talent as a Sculptor as well as her artist skills.

During Open studios a number of the artists will be demonstrating their craft, so why not come over and try your hand at pottery, making silver charms, painting or sculpture.

Just go to PS Arts website (www.psarts.co.uk) for more detail.

Make PS Arts and Southern Hemispheres exhibition Centre one of your “art” destination while planning your route around Hertfordshire. The art gallery has a delightful vintage tearoom where you can enjoy a cup of tea and cake or relax in our beautiful up-cycled art garden.

All you need to create your own self-guided tour – or series of trips with friends or family – is the Herts Open Studios brochure containing venues and opening times. Find this at main libraries, tourist information centres and local galleries or view online. www.hvaf.org.uk/Open-Studios Entry to all exhibitions is free. If you like something you see, why not spoil yourself or a friend and make a purchase - or commission a special piece direct from the artist.

Contact Sharon Struckman, PS Arts gallery owner for more details on 079 29 23 06 23 or email her on Sharon@psarts.co.uk 11

Reflections on Spiritual Development by Julie Sale Psychotherapist and Co-Director of Local Counselling Centre My friend dropped me an email yesterday asking ‘What’s with all the spirituality stuff?’

She was responding to my social media promotion of Local Counselling Centre’s upcoming event ‘The Psychology of Spiritual Development’. She may well be thinking that this is another example of my famous ‘deep and meaningful streak’.

Although I can get happily absorbed in girly gossip talk of which brand of chocolate we like best, the superficial world of fashion or the predictable silliness of a romantic comedy, I have always spent a lot of my thinking time wondering about the bigger questions of life …. what our purpose is, what happens after death, how can we be at peace with ourselves and with others? These questions come to most of us at some point in our lives, maybe as part of a life-long examination of existential ideas, or at a midpoint in life when the career, house and car we have been working for suddenly seem meaningless, or even as a fleeting thought between washing the breakfast dishes and doing the school run.

Although very often linked to religion, spirituality for me goes beyond the formal observance of religious faith. Spirituality is ‘that which relates to or affects the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things’ so, for me, spiritual development is the engagement in activities that stir my soul and bring my mind and body into closer rapport with one another. Although Green and Blacks plain chocolate, a boutique dress and an A lister film can lift my spirits temporarily, they can’t sustain me long term or on their own. Finding meaning and purpose beyond the everydayness of every day provides that sustenance.

In the 1940’s Abraham Maslow proposed that humans have a ‘hierarchy of needs’.

Represented as a pyramid, starting at the base with our physiological needs of breathing, food, water and sleep, the pyramid works up through the need for physical and financial security to love and belonging and self esteem. At the top of Maslow’s hierarchy is what he terms ‘self actualisation’, by which he meant the realisation of our full human potential. Maslow believed that we had to have all of the lower levels of need met and understood before we could self actualise. In the 1970’s Gregory Bateson, anthropologist and social scientist, also placed spirituality at the top of his ‘Logical Levels of Thinking’, in a similar model to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Bateson, however, emphasised the strong and pervasive influence of the higher levels of thinking on the lower levels. Clearly, in our culture, focusing on spiritual development exclusively is not likely to help us to pay the bills, but having an awareness of the importance of spiritual development may help us to maintain the energy to work or even find that job that meets some of our soul needs as well as the mortgage payments.

So I am really looking forward to the 23rd September when Local Counselling Centre presents a full day of short lectures on the subject of The Spirituality of Psychological Development – a day to feed the mind and soul (and stomach as lunch is included!).

LCC would like to extend the discount code LCC2014 to all Sticks readers and listeners giving a £40 saving on the ticket price of our lecture day The Psychology of Spiritual Development being held at The Hitchin Priory on 23rd September. For more details and booking go to www.localcounsellingcentre.co.uk/events or phone Kathy Saunders on 01462 674671.

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Chris Barber, Georgie Fame and John Taylor to headline Herts Jazz is pleased to announce the line-up for the 2014 Herts Jazz Festival taking place on 12-14 September at the Hawthorne Theatre, Welwyn Garden City.

The three headliners will be the Big Chris Barber Band, the John Taylor Quartet and Georgie Fame with the Alan Skidmore Quartet. There are plenty of other big names from British jazz on the programme including Ben Castle, Art Themen, Jean Toussaint, Orphy Robinson & Anthony Kerr, Clark Tracey, James Pearson, JJ Wheeler and more.

This will be the fourth Herts Jazz Festival and will have a similar format to last year’s which was so popular, with free of charge sessions in the foyer during the session intervals and after hours.

Festival Director, Clark Tracey said, “We are proud to have established the Herts Jazz Festival as part of the British jazz calendar. I think we’ve got something for every jazzlover over the weekend, from the legend that is Chris Barber (who was born in Welwyn Garden City) to up and coming new star JJ Wheeler.”

£95 (£85 Herts Jazz members, £30 students) Tickets are on sale via the Festival website – www.hertsjazzfestival.co.uk and at the Hawthorne Theatre box office (01707 357117).

For more information about the Festival go to www.hertsjazzfestival.co.uk.

Herts Jazz Festival 12-14 September Programme Friday 8.30-11.00 The Big Chris Barber Band, 11.00-12.30 Brian Dee Trio Saturday 11.30–12.30 James Pearson Trio – A history of jazz piano, 1.00-2.00 Art Themen Quartet 2.00-3.00 Nigel Price solo, 3.15-4.30 Ben Castle Quartet, 5.00-6.15 Jean Toussaint's Blakey Tribute, 6.15-7.30 Michael De Souza duo, 7.45-10.15 John Taylor Quartet 10.30-12.00 Leon Greening Trio Sunday 11.30-12.30 Herts Youth Jazz Ensemble, 1.00-2.00 Clark Tracey Quintet, 2.00-3.00 Mike Gorman solo, 3.15-4.30 JJ Wheeler Quintet, 5.00-6.15 Orphy Robinson/Anthony Kerr, 6.15-7.30 Alan Barnes/Dave Newton, 7.45-10.15 Georgie Fame + Alan Skidmore Quartet

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Road Test - Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV

By Andrew Merritt -Morling Less than £15k is enough to secure you Ford’s new EcoSport SUV Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV is now available to buy, with prices starting from £14,995. The EcoSport will complete what Ford describes as an unrivalled small car line-up as it sits alongside the Fiesta and BMax MPV. The EcoSport is described by the company as rugged, practical and agile.

The EcoSport joins the UK Ford range in anticipation of the company’s projection that sales of SUV’s will increase by more than a fifth (22%) by 2018. It hopes to take advantage and believes that the rate of smaller SUV’s, the sector in which the EcoSport sits, will grow even faster: by a staggering 90%.

The EcoSport has been developed entirely in Latin America and will be the company’s first global SUV. It will replace a model that has been sold in the region since 2003.

Under the bonnet will be a choice of either a 1.0-litre 124bhp petrol unit, a larger capacity but smaller output 111bhp 1.5-litre petrol unit or a 89bhp 1.5-litre diesel unit. The smaller capacity 1.0-litre unit is of particular interest since output from the three-times winner of the International Engine of the Year award is equivalent to the performance achieved by a traditional 1.6-litre engine. However, it emits just 125g/km of CO2 and returns up to 53.3mpg on the combined cycle. The 1.5-litre petrol unit produces 149g/km of CO2 and achieves up to 44.8mpg, whilst the diesel emits 120g/km of CO2 and returns up to 61.4mpg.

If truth be told, to the eyes of first4auto, the styling is ungainly, but we readily accept that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Its styling is almost certain to divide opinion with its short bonnet, steeply raked windscreen pillars and a face that is dominated by a very obvious, chrome-bedecked five-piece grille. At the other end, a full-size spare wheel is mounted on the SUV tailgate door to emphasise its SUV credentials. This also allows the boot to offer a practical 375-litre capacity with the rear seats in place. If you wish to take your EcoSport swimming, it will be able to wade to a depth of 550mm.

The EcoSport is one of the first vehicles introduced by the European arm of the company to be fitted with the Ford SYNC infotainment system with AppLink. This system allows its driver to utilise voice-control smartphone apps, including the well-known music selector, Spotify. www.first4auto.com www.facebook.com/first4auto Twitter: @first4auto 15

2014 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 2014 PLATINUM AWARDS for the Natural Health and Beauty World.

Janey herself is voted Number One Personality in the Natural Beauty Yearbook 2013 / 2014 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.

The ‘JANEY LOVES’ 2014 PLATINUM AWARDS will be published in full at www.imperfectlynatural.com 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.

The coveted Best Natural Cleanser award went to a small company – Pure Lakes Skincare for their Rosehip Soapfree cleanser. The Best Anti-ageing Facial product winner is Synergy Skinfood for the luxurious Seven Serum Skinfood – joint winners were Tiana Fair Trade Organics for the Rose Fresh Coconut TLC Best night cream went to B2 Beauty for the SKN-RG Restructure Night Cream Two of the biggest established companies Green People and Weleda both won awards again; Green People won the Best New Summer Product with the Gradual Tan Moisturiser. The coveted Best Conditioner award went to Weleda for the Oat Replenishing Conditioner.

Inlight whose founder is the skincare guru Dr Mariano Spiezia won for the second year running with their Organic Firm and Tone oil – brilliant for cellulite!

Make-up and Hair Natorigin stormed the make-up categories yet again winning the Best Make-up foundation and Best Mascara. Sante won for the first time with the gorgeous natural Coral Pink lipstick. PHB Ethical Beauty won the Best Natural Lipgloss Conscious Skincare won for the Best Eye Make-up Remover. The Best Natural Shampoo went to Essential Care for the first ever certified organic shampoo and Tabitha James Kraan won the Best Specialist Hair Product with the Organic Dry Shampoo for fair hair.

Supplements Supplements were given an accolade too with Optibac winning Best Probiotic Supplement and Viridian Nutrition won the award for Best Beauty from Within award with their Organic Ultmate Beauty Collection. Well established companies like Sun Chlorella won Best Wholefood Supplement and the Best Superfood went to Live Wheatgrass (innovative frozen wheatgrass shots delivered to your door) The unbeatable Cherryactive picked up the Best Health Drink for the second year running with the Cherryactive Concentrate.

Hippocrates said ‘Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food’ and there were also winners in the Healthy Food and drink categories including Seed and Bean (great organic chocolate) Artisan Bread and Steenbergs Organics Janey Lee Grace says ‘The average home is more polluted than a busy street – make natural choices! To that end Chuckling Goat won for the Probiotic Multi Surface cleaner, Allergy Cosmos, Water for Health, Naturally Structured Water and UK Thermomix were all given accolades. The Healthy Office Innovation went to Backapp for a brilliant Adjustable Desk.

Babycare companies were given recognition too such as Mummalove Organics, Babycup and Bickiepegs and Neuners and Natural Birthing Company were joint winners for the Best New Mum’s Product 16

September is National Organic Month It’s hard to imagine that when I wrote my first book the Amazon number one best seller ‘Imperfectly Natural Woman’ nearly ten years ago, there were only a few natural skincare companies, only three companies offering natural and organic make-up, and only one or two companies offering natural and eco cleaning and laundry products.

Organic food was available but not always affordable and still seen as rather elite.

Thankfully now the choice in organics is massive and the quality of the new products seems to be getting better and better. Why is there such increased interest? People are starting to ditch the ‘pill for every ill’ mentality and are genuinely interested in taking more responsibility for their own health and wellbeing. There’s a definite increase in awareness of ecology and sustainability and organic farming supports these principles.

With food, the vegan society reports a burgeoning interest in the vegan lifestyle and the Vegfest festival saw an almost 45 per cent increase in footfall with over seven thousand visitors.

On the beauty side, a recent Mintel report claimed that the rise in spending in organic skincare and beauty products was over 40 per cent in two years and it really seems that despite an economic down-turn people are interested in health and sustainability, but they don’t want to compromise on taste and quality in food, and efficacy and ‘luxury’ in skincare, beauty and personal care products.

The old adage is true your skin is your bodies largest organ and ‘What you put on your skin goes within’; scientists say at least 60 per cent. If you find that hard to believe then consider how hormone replacement therapy cream works, one ten pence sized blob is another to completely change a woman’s hormonal picture! They do say, ‘Don’t put anything on your skin that you can’t eat’. That’s not as hard as it may sound when you can opt for raw extra virgin coconut oil moisturisers for example. You can also save money by making your own DIY skincare recipes and go old style with the cleaning, ditch the chemicals, use kitchen cupboard ingredients and remember the one forgotten cleaning aid elbow grease is organic!

Beware the companies who have high-jacked the word organic though, bear in mind that while organic food has high standards its possible for a beauty product to be misleading; a well-meaning friend once proudly offered me a bottle of Organic Aloe Vera shampoo, saying ‘I know you like organic products’, it contained only one per cent of organic aloe vera alongside a whole host of potentially toxic chemicals.

So always look for the certification symbols and check the ingredients on skincare and beauty products as closely as you would when checking for additives and GMO in your food products. If you want to ‘think global act local’ check out organic producers at the local Herts farmers markets, make sure you frequent the independent health stores and check out some of my fave Herts based companies, see my recent Janey Loves Awards for more at www.janeyleegrace.com For news and events on Organic Month see www.soilassociation.org

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Restaurant Review - The Swan at Salford

The Sticks first visited The Swan at Salford back in March 2012; we thought we would make a return visit to see if the food and service were as good as before.

The Swan Salford is an attractive Edwardian pub in a lovely village setting, 10 minutes from central Milton Keynes and just 1 mile from junction 13 of the M1. It’s perfect for a drink after work and as somewhere to meet, eat and drink with friends. The Swan combines top quality pub food with modern brasserie dishes with a large a la carte menu, a specials board and themed nights (Wednesday night, the night we visited is Aubrey Allen steak night.)

To start with I chose from the specials board - fresh Crispy Cornish Squid, Pickled Samphire with Saffron Aioli which was tender and not overcooked or rubbery; my colleague selected from the A la carte menu - Brixham Crab & Whipped Avocado on Toast with Granny Smith Salsa – a very generous portion of crab combined with the salsa and avocado to give a light, full flavoured dish.

For mains we had dishes from the main menu - Sticky Rack of Dandy Beef Ribs, Cajun Potato Wedges, Corn on the Cob & Slaw, Bourbon Ketchup and Grill Garnish of Roast Field Mushrooms, Garlic & Thyme Plum Tomatoes & Beer-battered Onion Rings (this is definitely not for the faint-hearted) - a large portion of tender tasty beef that fell off the bone with great sides; and Cornish Lamb Cutlets, Apricot Cous Cous, Baby Aubergine, Garlic & Mint Yoghurt – the lamb was just done with the hint of pink as

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requested and with the exquisite flavour that you only get from fresh lamb. To accompany both dishes we had a wonderful False Bay Sauvignon Blanc.

For desert we had Valrohona Chocolate & Cherry Pannacotta with Honeycomb - wow what a wonderful dessert chocolatey but not too rich; and Warm Peach Melba Tart, Toasted Almonds & Raspberry Sauce – a juicy half peach in a light shortcrust pastry surrounded by golden sponge.

To round off we had 2 lattes with smarties - a great way to end a meal!

With the skills and flair of Head Chef Mark Austin and under the direction of General Manager Lee Hall I was hoping the food and the service was going to be as good as last time but in fact it was better, which I did not think possible. As always the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. This is a must visit restaurant whether for business or pleasure.

Swan 2 Wavendon Road, Salford MK17 8BD Tel: 01908 281008 www.swansalford.co.uk 19

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Herbs Week

Fresh Greens & Herbs Full of Flavour How many times a week do you reach for your pot of ‘mixed herbs’ from the cupboard, not giving a moment’s thought to what’s actually in it?

Herbs can make a huge difference to a meal, and yet so many of us just sprinkle a few dried dregs into our dishes. A small herb garden is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to bring a whole new dimension to your cooking.

Hardy herbs such as sage, rosemary, thyme and marjoram normally live on throughout the year, even in the winter, so they are the perfect starting point. Then, in the summer, you can plant up basil, parsley, mint, chives and tarragon to bring a whole wealth of flavours to your food. Sometimes a bit of mint, or snip of chive can liven up even the most boring meals or side dishes so don’t discount their importance. Click here to discover lots of recipe ideas and advice on growing and cooking with herbs, with lots of advice from experts and chefs. Plus, the health benefits of herbs are also not to be ignored, so a few snips or sprinkles here and there could also improve your health!

More herb facts: - Fresh herbs contain more antioxidants – substances that fight cancer and heart disease – than some fruit and vegetables - Rosemary is rich in antioxidants which help to maintain vitality & slow the ageing process - The Romans believed that the consumption of mint would increase their intelligence and the smell of mint in their houses was also a symbol of hospitality - Growing a pot of basil in the kitchen may smell good to us but it doesn’t to nuisance flies and mosquitoes who are repelled by the aroma - Mint leaves or oil deters ants and so a few scattered leaves in your cupboards can prove a useful, natural solution - Fresh herbs aid the digestion of food – especially fat – and help with the elimination of toxins from the body - Chives have a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, lowering blood pressure - Dill is effective for the treatment of colic, gas and indigestion - Parsley is a natural breath freshener, particularly in combating the potency of garlic - Ancient records reveal recipes for herb infused oils and creams in the tombs of legendary beauties such as Cleopatra 22

Hero Cheese of the Month -D탑iugas We are proudly presenting this Baltic and lactosefree, cheese which has become a bit of a favourite with our customers. Beautifully crumbly and rich in flavour, this Lithuanian national treasure has been going since 1924. Calcium salt crystals add a little crunch to what could be described as 'vintage Gouda meets artisan cheddar'.

Pronounced 'Dew-gas', this cheese is remarkable, produced in maturations of 12 and 36 month age profiles, the 36 month mature has a close texture, slightly bouncy consistency, very reminiscent of a young parmigiana, although sweeter and less crunchy. For those dairy intolerant cheese lovers, your dream has come true, a first class cheese that's also lactose free!

Winner of various world-wide awards, most notably the Sial Innovation 2013 grand prix, a first for any products from this particular country.

Apart from the accolades handed to this cheese, the most remarkable thing is that it hails from, of all places Lithuania!

Ideal for any bakes, pasta sauces or sandwiches, D탑iugas has become an increasingly popular choice for wedding cheese cakes too, with some couples - dare we say it - even dropping the cheddar tier altogether and going for Dziugas instead. Whether you want to take that far or not, this cheese is certainly worth a try.

Try with an English ale or perhaps a good dry sherry such as a Barbadillo.

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

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Skool Disco - Fri 5 Sep 8pm to 2am Go back to school with our Skool Disco! We’ll be playing lots of fantastic songs from the 70s, 80s and 90s to help you recreate ‘the best days of your life'. As well dancing along to the music played by our wonderful DJ, why not try the Karaoke where you can sing along with your old school friends to the hits of your youth? Don your skool uniform and get ready to dance the night away! Tickets: £5.00 Over 25s only Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Herts Listings Textured Lives till Monday 29 Sep An exploration of the textured world using photography. An exhibition of work by Charlotte Prior. Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW Ashridge Autumn Trail - Mon 1 Sep to Fri 31 Oct Join us for a stroll through the woodland discovering more about Autumn time at Ashridge and complete some of the 50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4 on route. Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre HP4 1LT

Jongleurs Comedy Club Watford -Sat 6 Sep, Sat 13 Sep, Sat 20 Sep, Sat 27 Sep Walkabout, Watford WD17 1AW

Hitchin Art Club annual exhibition - Tues 2 to Thurs 25 Sep The annual exhibition from one of the first art clubs to be founded in Hertfordshire. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW

Hertfordshire Parent, Baby and Toddler Show Sat 6 Sep will showcase the very best products and services provided by local companies. The first 100 visitors will each receive a goody bag Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG13 1PS

Stevenage Family History Society - “Visiting The National Archives at Kew” - a talk by Mike Coy- Wednesday 3 Sep Society member Mike will give a brief history of Public Records stored in the National Archives and offer some tips on how to search the Catalogue, with examples of what may be found. Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage SG1 1UP

Hoddesdon Home & Leisure Show - Sat 6 Sep The Hoddesdon Home & Leisure Show is back for its 2nd year and gives the chance for locally based companies and organisations to promote themselves to the community. High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8TL The Sounds of the Glenn Miller Era - Sat 6 Sept The lights soften, the mood settles. An audience waits for that first moment of sound. The Big Band is poised, relaxed, but with eyes anxious for the lead. Then, as if giving body to an echo, the murmured notes of ‘Moonlight Serenade’…and the night, it seems, is suddenly full and timeless. There are those who watch and listen who tap a shy finger to the melodies, others who follow with a silent foot-beat, still others who murmur softly through the lyrics, and those who simply permit a fleeting smile. But common to all are memories. With a full line-up of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, a rhythm section and special guest vocalist Georgina Jackson, the Nick Ross Orchestra will faithfully recreate the wonderful sounds of such Big Bands as those led by Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey and Syd Lawrence.Tickets £21.50, £19.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

National Trust Watford and District Association - Thurs 4 Sep Adam Smith talks about Two Georgian Country Houses in the Chilterns.

Stanborough Centre, St Albans Road, Garston, Watford WD25 9JL Ceri Dupree - Thu 4 Sep To celebrate thirty years on the stage, female impersonator Ceri Dupree stars in this sensational new show paying homage to some of his favourite ladies.You can expect side splitting comedy and a visual feast of spectacular, eye popping and jaw dropping costumes. The show provides over two hours of musical parodies, dazzling quick changes and rapid-fire stand up at a pace that will leave you amazed. The first half celebrates stars from around the world and the second half pays tribute to the best of British. If you love a touch of class, Hollywood glamour and a laugh out loud giggle fest all culminating in an exciting and breath-taking finale this is not to be missed!

Tickets £19.50, £17.00 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Open Studios - Sat 6, Sun 7, Fri 12 to Sun 14 Sep Open Studios is a great opportunity to experience excellent work by local artists in an informal setting. 7 The Quadrant, Letchworth SG6 4TY

Sandridgebury Square Dance - Fri 5 Sep Let your hair down with the Square dance in Sandbridgebury. Sandridgebury Lane AL3 6DB

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Open Studios Hertfordshire - Sat 6, Sun 7, Fri 12 to Sun 14, Fri 19 to Sun 21, Fri 26 to Sun 28 Sep During September, Donna Roche, together with Janet Gardner another local artist, is opening her studio to the public. Donna’s work is inspired by nature. She creates pieces in many mediums.Naturals Barn, Foxholes Farm, London Road, Hertford SG13 7NI

"boogie Boy" Lee .Club De Havilland, Hatfield Business Park, Hatfield AL10 9EU One Night of Queen - Fri 12 Sept Performed by Gary Mullen and The Works. In 2000, Gary Mullen on ITV’s “Stars In Their Eyes” Live Grand Final, with the largest number of votes ever received in the shows history. The record of 864,838 votes was more than twice that of the runnerup. Gary began touring on his own and in 2002 formed a band ‘The Works’, to pay tribute to rock legends Queen. Since May 2002, ‘Gary Mullen and the Works’ have performed throughout the UK, USA, Europe, South Africa and New Zealand to sell-out audiences. The outfit have also twice rocked the prestigious BBC Proms in the Park, in front of a very enthusiastic crowd of 40,000. One Night of Queen is a spectacular live concert, recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time. This show will ROCK you! Tickets: £20.00, £16.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Stevenage Wedding Fair - Sun 7 Sep Come and join us for the first Wedding Fair at a brand new venue, The Forum, Stevenage a luxurious banqueting facility seating up to 625 guests. Four flexible function rooms fully air conditioned. The Forum Banqueting Suites, Danestrete, Stevenage SG1 1EJ Beauty in Older Women: Photographs by Edo Zollo - Tues 9 to Mon 29 Sep This stunning exhibition has received national acclaim, both in the press and on television. Photographer Edo Zollo set out to capture the beauty of older women -- and has succeeded brilliantly.

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

Hot Pepper Entertainments Present - Thank You For The Music, The UK number 1 ABBA Tribute Show - Fri 12 Sep Thank You For The Music is the most amazing ABBA tribute show starring the UK number 1 ABBA tribute band, ABBA Sensation. Cuffley Hall, Maynard Place, Cuffley EN6 4JA

Chas & Dave - Sat 13 September Back By Demand - The Tour Chas & Dave began writing and performing songs together in 1972, having been friends since the early sixties. Now celebrating their 50th Anniversary by recording their first original album in 27 years which is a mixture of vintage rock & roll songs and new renditions of their own rockney classics. The album also features special guest stars such as Jools Holland, Buddy Holly's drummer Jerry Allison & Hugh Laurie. They reached the top twenty in 1979 with “Gertcha”, which became a nationwide catchphrase. This was followed by “The Sideboard Song (Got my Beer in the Sideboard Here)". In 1980 they hit the charts with “Rabbit”, which reached No. 8 in the charts and a No. 2 record in 1982 “Ain't No Pleasing You”. This was followed by further hits “Margate”, &“London Girls”. In 1986 they had a top six record with “Snooker Loopy”. They have also written title songs for TV shows ‘Till Death Do Us Part’ and ‘Only Fools & Horses’ Chas & Dave are great musicians and know how to give an audience a good time. They have gained a cult audience of both young and old and due to public demand they are about to be seen together on stage once more. Tickets: £24.50, £22.50.

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

The Big Jive Spectacular - Fri 12 Sep Featuring The Jive Aces + Cody Lee and The Retro Boys Plus DJ Paul "Get In The Swing" Jackson, dance lesson from www.JiveSwing.com and Cody

Piccotts End Medieval Wall Paintings - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep This is a rare opportunity to see these important 15th century wall paintings. 132 Piccotts End, Hemel Hempstead

Ladies’ Night - Thu 11 Sept 8pm Calling all ladies! An evening full of gorgeous male entertainment, a cheeky drag queen, a devilish cocktail on arrival and a scrumptious threecourse meal - the night is set to tantalise all your senses! In September, get ready for the return of Miss Dot Com and prepare to be titillated by performances from Louis Vin Dangler and Rob Knight. Over 18s only. Contains nudity. Tickets: £30.00* includes 3-course meal and the evening’s entertainment Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Grove House Fashion Show - Thurs 11 Sep Join us for an evening of high fashion at bargain prices. A chance to kick start your Autumn/Winter wardrobe without breaking the bank. All proceeds from the ticket sales go to Grove House. Grove House, Waverley Road, St Albans AL3 5QX

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Redbourn Village Museum and Family History Centre - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep The Redbourn Experience explains the history of a Hertfordshire Village through the centuries through local finds and in pictures, maps and objects. Redbourn Village Museum and Family History Centre, Silk Mill House, The Common, Redbourn AL3 7NB

Instrumental, a tribute to the therapeutic powers of music, as well as a fascinating insight into the lives of some of the great composers.

Last year James performed at Latitude Festival, toured to Hong Kong and Vienna and presented and performed in the acclaimed television documentary Notes from the Inside which aired on Channel 4. James is currently releasing his 5th studio album called 5 and filming his new series for Channel 4 which is due to air this September in the UK. Tickets £20.00, £15.50.

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

Redbournbury Watermill - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep Eighteenth-century restored working watermill, producing organic stone-ground flours and bread. Museum, milling demonstrations and artisan bakery on site. Redbournbury Lane, St Albans AL3 6RS

Berkhamsted Town Hall - Sun 14 Sep Victorian Gothic market house and town hall. Architect Edward Buckton Lamb - built in 1859, extended in 1890, restored 1983-1999. 196 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 3BA

Ware Museum - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep Ware Museum is an independent museum opened in 1986 in the former Victorian lodge house of Ware Priory. The museum is entirely volunteer run.

Priory Lodge, 89 High Street, Ware SG12 9AL

Berkhamsted Castle Guided Tours - Sun 14 Sep Guided tours of Berkhamsted Castle, a typical motte and bailey Norman castle, built originally as a timber structure by William the Conqueror’s half-brother. Berkhamsted Castle, Berkhamsted,

Scotts Grotto - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep Scott’s Grotto in Ware is a series of six interconnected chambers decorated with thousands of shells, flints and pieces of coloured glass. Scotts Road, Ware, SG12 9JQ

Claire Lloyd Properties - Sun 14 Sep 173 High Street, formerly Figgs the Chemist, is the oldest known urban timber frame building in the country, its timbers dating from the late 13th century. 173 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 3HB

St Albans South Signal Box and Railway Museum - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep 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 preserved main line signal box with public access. Ridgmont Road, St Albans AL1 3AJ

Chilterns Countryside and Food Festivals - Sun 14 Sep Come along to our annual festival to celebrate the different crafts, industries and wildlife associated with the Chilterns countryside. Enjoy a day of mouth-watering local produce stalls. Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre HP4 1LT

Isabel Hospice Starlight Walk 2014 - Sat 13 Sep Join Isabel Hospice for their 10k Starlight Walk with an Awesome 80s theme. Come on and grab those legwarmers, deely boppers and glow sticks and help them make this a night to remember!

Fanshawe Pool and Gym, Ware SG12 0DP

Potters Bar Fire Walk - Sun 14 Sep Can you take the heat? Would you walk on hot coals to help Peace Hospice Care support people with a lifelimiting illness in Potters Bar and throughout South West Hertfordshire? Elm Court Youth and Community Centre, Mutton Lane, Potters Bar EN6 3BP

Autumn Family Fete - Sat 13 Sep A great family fun day, We have Talk to the Animals attending, who will be bringing a range of Tropical Animals for the children to touch. Rowans Primary School, Rowans, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1NZ James Rhodes Live - Sun 14 Sept 7.30pmJames Rhodes has had an astonishing life. After a traumatic childhood, he found his salvation through classical music.

With sheer determination he overcame his experiences and went on to become a writer, commentator, TV presenter and renowned concert pianist, performing sold-out concerts around the world.

Using his trademark ‘stand-up style’, insights and anecdotes on classical music, maverick pianist James Rhodes comes to Watford Colosseum with his highly unique show. This concert tour celebrates the release of his memoir,

Family Fun Bike Ride - The Harpenden "MacCycle" Day - Sun 14 Sep A Sunday bike ride in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support (Harpenden and District). Safe cycling for all the family along the old railway line tarmac cycle path.

Harpenden to Luton. Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, Piggotshill Lane, Harpenden AL5 1JP T Rextasy I Love to Boogie - Sun 14 Sep In 1973 a record was released which would bridge the generation gap and become a rock anthem to both young and old – ‘20th Century 26

please stay away! Over 18s only. Tickets: £20.00.

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

Boy’ was written and composed by Marc Bolan.

Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ Hertford Heritage Day - Sun 14 Sep The Castle will open its doors to the public with a medieval encampment and falconry display on the lawn.

Hertford Castle and Town SG14 1HR

Jason Manford - First World Problems - Fri 19 Sept Jason Manford is back at the Colosseum with a wealth of comedy anecdotes, comic misunderstandings and audience banter delivered with his trademark likeable charm and teasingly intelligent wit. After his opera singing turn saw him emerge the winner on Born To Shine, Jason put his new found talent into practice joining Alfie Boe on tour prior to a wellreceived run in the West End hit musical Sweeney Todd. However, his comedy bones weren’t completely idle as he enjoyed appearances on QI, Big Fat Quiz of the Year and Comedy World Cup. Jason said: ‘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!’

Tickets £23.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Ware Brass - Sun 14 Sep Enjoy listening to Ware Brass play on the magnificent Priory Grounds, Ware SG12 9AL The Little Hadham Antiques Fair - Sun 14 Sep An established fair known for its wide range of quality antiques, jewellery, silver, furniture etc. at reasonable prices. Little Hadham Village Hall (Signposted off the A120 between Puckeridge & Bishop’s Stortford) SG11 2BP Mill Green Mill & Museum - Sun 14 Sep Take a look behind the scenes, tour the stores and see the work of our collections staff and volunteers. Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD Tour of the Priory Building - Sun 14 Sep Have a guided tour around The Priory building, a building once home to Friars. A one off tour of the Historic Priory Building which is not usually open to the public. Ware SG12 9AL

Sikes and Nancy - Fri 19 Sep A tale of high melodrama featuring the story of the ill-fated Nancy and her brutal end at the hands of Bill Sikes in Dickens’s masterpiece Oliver Twist.

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

Hellfire Comedy Club - Wed 17 Sept 8pm What a great night! A curry and three of the finest up and coming comedians to entertain you .In September we'll have Andrew Bird; one of those rare comedians who makes friends with his audiences in an instant with his engaging mix of childhood stories and more recent anecdotes.

He'll be joined by solid stand-up, Paul McCaffrey and Bryan Lacey, who mixes observational material, silly stories and quick gags with some excellent improvisational skills. Tickets: £18.00 (includes curry and the evening’s entertainment) Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Vivace - Art inspired by Music - Fri 19 to Sun 21 Sep Vivace means lively and exciting in musical terms, which describes our exhibition of work inspired by music. Gravelly Barn, Gravelly Lane, Braughing SG11 2RD The West End Experience - Sat 20 Sept A Showcase of the Musicals, Starring Asa Elliott from ITV’s Benidorm! Transporting you on a journey through the musicals and into the heart of London’s theatreland! Performed by a cast of sensational artists direct from London’s West End and a superb live band, this all-singing, alldancing production features over 140 dazzling costumes, beautiful vocal performances & thrilling choreography as it showcases West End musicals past & present. Featuring smash hit songs from … Chicago, Phantom Of The Opera, Les Miserables, Grease, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, The Lion King, Wicked, Dirty Dancing, Jersey Boys…and many more; this truly spectacular show promises to be the perfect musical extravaganza to suit all! Tickets £22.50, £19.50. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Roy Chubby Brown - Thu 18 Sept Who ate all the Pies! Live. Roy Chubby Brown returns with his bluest show yet! He’s still rude, he’s still crude and this time he’s turning headlines into punch lines as his rip-roaring brand of banter continues to burst bellies across the country.

Chubby doesn’t hold back from sharing his outlandish views on news, women and gender, sailing so close to the mark, even the most seasoned of fans will be left gob-smacked! As politically incorrect as ever ‘The World’s Most Outrageous Comedian’ is far too rude for TV, so this live performance is the only place to catch the flamboyant comedian! If easily offended 27

Soul Legends is coming to Hoddesdon - Sat 20 Sep Billed as “the feel good show of the year”, brand-new smash-hit, Stateside spectacular Soul Legends is coming to town. Broxbourne Civic Hall, High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE

St Albans Cathedral Flower Festival: Music in Bloom - Thur 25 to Sun 28 Sep For four days in September, St Albans Cathedral will be transformed into a stunning oasis of colour and sound when the 2014 ‘Music in Bloom’ Flower Festival opens. St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard, St Albans WD19 6UH

Andy and Mike’s Tick Tock Time Machine - Sat 20 Sep Starring Andy Day from Andy’s Wild Adventures (CBeebies) alongside comedy partner Mike James. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG13 1PS

Autumn Equinox - A Celebration of Gratitude: An Evening of Sacred Sound - Fri 26 Sep In Autumn it is traditional to give thanks for the bounty that the year has provided us with both in terms of the natural year and also our own lives.

Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall, The Forebury, Sawbridgeworth CM21 9BD

Outdoor Cinema - Sat 20 Sep and Sun 21 Sep Classic films (Grease and Top Gun) on a giant screen in the Park. Bring a picnic and a rug. Knebworth House SG1 2AX

The Haunting of Hill House - Sat 27 Sep A chilling and mystifying study in mounting terror in which a small group of psychically receptive people are brought together in Hill House, a brooding, mid-Victorian mansion. Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX

Arkley Village Scarecrow Fete - Sat 20 SepFun for all the Family with games, dressing up, Beat the Goalie, tombola, raffle with fabulous prizes.

Lots of international food stalls, Pimms stall, Black Horse micro-brewery, ice cream. Arkley Village Hall, Brickfield Lane, off Barnet Road, Barnet (opposite Gate Pub) EN5 3LD

Monthly Table Top Sale - Sat 27 Sep Hoddesdon Methodist Church run a monthly (last Saturday of the Month) Table Top Sale in the Methodist Church Hall Middlefield Road Hoddesdon EN11 9ED.

NCT Nearly New Sale - Sat 20 Sep Sale of good quality ’nearly new’ baby and children’s wear, maternity clothes and nursery equipment. Great bargains can be found. Kingshott School, Hitchin SG4 7JX

The Big Model Show - Sat 27 and Sun 28 Sep St Albans Model Engineering Society the Big Model Show Free miniature train rides; Model locomotives & Stationary engines in steam; Model boats; Free ‘Have-a-go’ radio controlled model. Townsend Church of England School, High Oakes, St Albans AL3 6DR

Jasper Carrott - Stand Up and Rock- Sun 21 Sept Stand Up And Rock does what it says on the tin....Jasper is back to his very best....mic in hand regaling the audience with his 'new' stand up routines before introducing his musical compatriots that have been 'rockin' audiences all over the world. Bev Bevan, as well as been Jasper's mate has rock star credentials that most dream of.......Trevor Burton of The Move, the first band played on Radio 1.....Geoff Turton lead singer of the Rockin Berries.....Joy Strachan-Brain the lead singer of one of the UK's finest Celtic rock bands Quill.So do not miss this unique show that gives the opportunity to see and hear great legendary artistes belt out a night of fantastic songs and Jasper back where he belongs......making us laugh!! Tickets: £28.00.

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

Stevenage Family History Society - Family History Open Day - Sat 27 Sep Join us at Stevenage Museum and find out how to uncover your family roots. Guidance will be available on how to get started in family history research.

Stevenage Museum, St. Georges Way, Stevenage, SG1 1XX The Mercure London Watford Hotel Wedding Show - Sun 28 Sep A chance to meet local suppliers to help put that finishing touch to your special day! A41 Watford Bypass, Watford WD25 8JH

Cupcake Decorating - Mon 22 Sep Learn to decorate fun and delicious cupcakes with a variety of decorations. We will teach you the secrets of perfect rose piped and classic peaked swirls using whipped buttercream. 99p flake cakes. Grove House, Waverly Road, St Albans AL4 9EJ

Autumn Wedding Exhibition - Sun 28 Sep The Castle will open its doors for couples to be inspired for their special day. With an array of suppliers exhibiting under one Royal roof, the Castle will host photographers, bridal wear.

Hertford Castle SG14 1HR

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Evening with a Medium - Sat 6 Sep Denise Newman will be leading this special evening.

Whipsnade Village Hall, off B4540, LU6 2LG

Beds Listings A-Maize-ing Maze At Mead Open Farm - till Tues 30 Sep Is it left or is it right? Find your way through Mead Open Farm’s A-Maize-ing Maze with over 4 acres of corn fun. A fun activity for all ages! Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington LU7 9JH

Airshow: Shuttleworth Pageant - Sun 7 Sep The Shuttleworth Pageant showcases all of the Collection’s aircraft and vehicles and this year there will be an emphasis on items collected personally by Richard Shuttleworth. The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome SG18 9EP

Summer fun at Woodside - till Tues 2 Sep Holiday fun including tractor rides, meet and feed the animals, animal handling and demonstrations with reptiles, owls and much more, chick and bunny cuddling, indoor play barn, outdoor play areas. Mancroft Rd, Aley Green, nr. Luton LU1 4DG

Stondon Classic Transport Festival - Sun 7 Sep Classic cars, lots of family fun, bouncy castle, face painting, paint balling, craft stalls, school game stalls, refreshments, food stalls, BBQ and lots more. Stondon Recreation ground

Bedfordshire Youth Opera Presents Mozart’s ’Magic Flute’ - Wed 3 to Sat 6 Sep Bedfordshire Youth Opera return to The Place Theatre with a new production of Mozart’s classic fairytale, The Magic Flute. Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE

Business Networking Event - Tue 9 Sep Do you like to network in the Luton & Bedfordshire area?

Why not join us with 8 Business Networking for some relaxed and informal B2B / B2C sessions. G Casino 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

Free social media and networking event -Thur 4 Sep Come along to the free event for the chance to network and learn about social media best practices. Four social media seminars will be given. Viking Self Storage, Caxton Road, Elms Farm Industrial Estate, Off Goldington Road, Bedford MK41 0HT

Moggerhanger Park - Thur 11 Sep Experience the unique history of Moggerhanger Park on a house tour. There is so much to discover here at the original home of the Thornton family, designed by Sir John Soane. Moggerhanger Park, Park Road, Moggerhanger MK44 3RW John Bunyan Museum and Bunyan Meeting Thur 11 to Sat 13 Sep John Bunyan, author of The Pilgrim’s Progress, is one of Bedford’s most famous sons. Visit the Museum and Church and take a walk through Bunyan’s life and times.

Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU

Flitton and Greenfield Gala Day - Sat 6 Sep Flitton and Greenfield Gala is an annual event to raise funds for the village hall and is a fun day for all to enjoy. This year’s theme is commemorating the start of World War One. Flitton & Greenfield Village Hall and Recreation Ground, Greenfield Road, Flitton MK45 5DR

Guided tours at Bromham Mill and Cafe - Fri 12 to Sun 14 Sep Bromham Mill is a late 18th or early 19th century rebuilding in brick, timber and stone on the site of earlier mills. It had two waterwheels. Bromham Mill, Bridge End, Bromham, Bedford MK43 8LP

Relay for life Cancer Research UK - Sat 6 Sep Family fun packed weekend. Stalls. Raffles.

Teams of friends and family relay for life walking 24 hours. Candles lit for survivors and remembrance Saturday evening. Stockwood Park Luton LU1 4BH

Queen Anne’s Summerhouse - Fri 12 to Sun 14 Sep Hidden in a pine wood on the edge of the Shuttleworth estate is this intriguing folly with high quality 18th-century brickwork. The Warren, Shuttleworth Estate, Old Warden, Biggleswade SG18 9EB

Alzheimer’s Memory Walk - Sat 6 SepWho will you walk for this September? Join us in Priory Country Park, home of our special Bedford Memory Walk. Come along and you’ll be helping raise much-needed funds. Priory Marina, Bedford, MK41 9DJ

Luton Hoo Walled Garden - Sat 13 Sep Designed

by Capability Brown for the 3rd Earl of Bute in 1769 and now being restored to its former splendour. The Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Luton Hoo Estate, Luton LU1 4LF

Tom Jones Tribute - Sat 6 Sep Join in our weekend entertainment with Simon Abbotts as ‘Tom Jones’ performing LIVE in our bar area.

Reaching the finals of BBC One’s The One and Only, Simon became the essential sound-alike. G Casino 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

Lime Kiln Vault, The Higgins Bedford - Sat 13 Sep A rare opportunity to access the lime kiln vault which forms part of the Castle Quay 29

Communities Charity (BRCC) has run the vineyard, cared for by volunteers, since 2010; working with other local organisations and schools. Warden Abbey Community Vineyard, Bedford Road, Nr Old Warden

development next door to The Higgins Bedford, on the site of Bedford Castle. The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD Tina Turner Tribute performing LIVE at Grosvenor G Casino Luton - Sat 13 Sep Join in our weekend entertainment with Justine Riddoch as our ‘Tina Turner Tribute’ performing live in our bar area. Officially The UK’s Number One Tribute to Tina Turner.35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre and Tea Room - Sun 14 Sep Restored 1846 station house in Victorian Gothic Cottage Orné style with small but growing collection of railway heritage artifacts in the former booking office. Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre, The Railway Station, Station Road, Ridgmont MK43 3XP

Willington Dovecote Celebration: a hundred years with the National Trust - Sat 13 Sep Join with us to celebrate that the spectacular Willington Dovecote was given to the National Trust 100 years ago, in 1914. Church End, Willington, Bedford MK44 3PU

St John The Baptist Church, Cockayne Hatley Sun 14 Sep The church of St. John the Baptist is a lovely 12th century country church situated at the gates of an ancient hall, the ancestral home of the Cockayne family. Cockayne Hatley SG19 2EA

Stevington Windmill- Sat 13 Sep Constructed around a central post so that it can be turned to face into the wind, this impressive postmill was built in the 18th century. Stevington Windmill, 2 Windmill Lane, Stevington, MK43 7QZ

Guitar and Flute Concert - Fri 19 Sep This London based duo will be playing light classics and many familiar tunes. Light refreshments available, at start of evening as well as during the interval. Whipsnade Village Hall, off B4540, LU6 2LG

Moot Hall, Elstow - Step into the World of John Bunyan- Sat 13 Sep A 15th century timber framed market house set on the village green in Elstow. The Moot Hall was originally built to serve Elstow Abbey but is now a museum. Moot Hall, Church End, Elstow, Bedford MK42 9XT

On Golden Pond - Fri 19, Sat 20, Thu 25 to Sat 27 Sep TADS Theatre Group present On Golden Pond. A touching, funny and warmly perceptive study of a spirited and lovable elderly couple facing their twilight years. Tads Theatre Conger Lane, Toddington LU5 6BT

Hart House Business Centre - Sun 14 Sep Hart House was built in 1907 as the headquarters of Vauxhall Motors. It is a Grade II listed building, built in William and Mary style. Hart House Business Centre, Kimpton Road, Luton LU2 0LB

A Classic Evening Airshow - Sat 20 Sep Soak up the ambience at our classic evening airshow. The flying display includes a selection of our historic aircraft and features visiting aircraft. The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, SG18 9EP

Heritage Walks in a Beautiful Cemetery - Sun 14 Sep We have escorted Heritage walks around the extensive grounds. As the ground is on a sloping hilly site it is best to wear suitable footwear. Bedford Cemetery, Foster Hill Road, Bedford MK41 7TD

George Michael Tribute performing live at Grosvenor G Casino Luton - Sat 20 Sep Join in our weekend entertainment with Pete Valentine as our ‘George Michael Tribute’ performing LIVE in our bar area. 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

Open Church and Mausoleum - Sun 14 Sep St Mary’s Church will be open for visitors to look round and listen to the organ. The Ailesbury Mausoleum and Crypt in the churchyard will also be open. St Mary’s Church, Church Road, Maulden MK45 2AU

Grosvenor’s Got Talent Show Contestant Heat - Fri 26 Sep Do you think you have the ‘X-Factor’ or the ‘Skills’ to be the next big thing in entertainment? How about the ability to impress our judges and wow an audience? 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

Ailesbury Mausoleum and Crypt - Sun 14 Sep This is a fine example of one of the first mausoleum to be built in this country with the earliest parts being built by Thomas Bruce, a descendant of the legendary Robbie! Church Road, Maulden MK45 2AU

Old Tyme Music Hall - Fri 26 and Sat 27 Sep Maulden History Society together with Maulden Players are putting on an Old Tyme Music Hall to commemorate the outbreak of World War I in 1914.

All profits will go to Forces

Warden Abbey Community Vineyard Open Day and Wine Sale - Sun 14 Sep Bedfordshire Rural 30

Chalfont St Giles Show 2014 - Sat 6 Sep Cameron Farm, Narcot Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4DX

charities. Village Hall, Flitwick Road, Maulden MK45 2DP Nearly New Sale (Sale of quality clothes, toys and equipment 0-5/6 years) - Sat 27 Sep Items for sale include baby equipment, Children’s clothes from birth, bedding, sleeping bags, quality pre-school toys, maternity clothes and much much more. Athletic Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9SB

Day Out With Thomas at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre - Sat 6 and Sun 7 Sep On these special days take a ride behind Thomas the Tank Engine™ under the watchful eye of Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller. Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY

Mice with Glasses Indie Rock Band performing LIVE at Grosvenor G Casino Luton – Sat 27 Sep Join in our payday weekend entertainment with Indie Rock Band ‘Mice with Glasses’ performing LIVE in our bar area! An energetic and talented covers band. 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE

Jumbled jigsaw trail - Sat 6 and Sun 7 Sep For all ages: complete a trail through the Museum to uncover a child hidden in the chocolate factory. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL Chearsley Classic Car & Fun Day - Sun 7 Sep A fantastic free day for all the family featuring classic cars from a bygone era. There will be children’s rides; pets corner; art and crafts as well as plenty of food and drink. Chearsley Cricket Club, Winchendon Road, Chearsley HP18 0DW

Bucks Listings Summer Circus Spectacular - till Tues 2 Sep Roll Up, Roll Up! enjoy the fun and excitement of the Charles Chipperfield Circus at Odd Farm Park! Inside the Big Top, marvel at the spectacular human acts. Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe HP10 0LX

Country Fair at Hazeldene Farm- Sun 7 Sep Country Fair at Hazeldene Farm in aid of Chiltern & Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Lots of stallholders, children’s rides. Air rifle range, Pony Rides, Blow up Slide, go on a farm walk.

Tea & cake. Hazeldene Farm, Asheridge Road, Chesham HP5 2XD

Muggled mirror paintings - Tues 2 Sep For 4+ years: make some crackling characters using this marvellous mirrored painting technique. Will you make a wacky Willy Wonka, or a bright purple Violet Beauregarde? 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Wedding Fair - Sun 7 Sep Planning on getting hitched? Come along to the Missenden Abbey wedding fair to browse through a variety of local wedding suppliers and see the Abbey set up for a ceremony. Missenden Abbey, London Road, Great Missenden HP16 0BD

Family History Talk: What’s In The Parish Chest? - Weds 3 Sep Richard Ratcliffe looks at the wide variety of records which used to be kept in the Parish Chest from the 15th century to the early 20th. Methodist Church Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2HB

Craft and Vintage Fair - Sun 7 Sep In the lively Olney Centre, Olney High Street, we present our Craft and Vintage Fairs, featuring a lovely mix of craft and vintage stalls; something for everyone and every pocket. The Olney Centre, High Street, Olney MK46 4EF

Bogswizzling bookmarks - Weds 3 Sep For 4+ years: Beat the back-to-school blues and make a bedazzling bookmark in the shape of your favourite Roald Dahl character. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

The Great War Remembered, Living Archive MK - Thur 11 to Sat 13 Sep An exhibition to commemorate the Great War. Featuring photographs, stories and artefacts from the Milton Keynes area. Discover Milton Keynes Showcase, Milton Keynes Library, 555 Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 3HL

Country Fete - Sat 6 Sep Home Produce, Fruit, Vegetables, Chutney, Jams, Cakes, BBQ, Tombola, Raffle, Bric-a-brac, Hat Stall, Books, Games, Vestry Teas etc. St. Mary’s Churchyard.

Village Road Deham Village UB9 5BB Sausage, Ale & Cider festival - Sat 6 Sep Wingrave will be hosting their very first Sausage, Ale & Cider festival - with a great range of beverages to choose from as well as some fantastic live music and lots to do. Wingrave Sports and Social Club, Wingrave HP22 4QB

Memories of Bletchley Railway Station - Thur 11 to Sat 13 Sep An exhibition of photos and memorabilia which give an insight into life at Bletchley Railway Station. Bletchley Library,

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National Badminton Museum Open Day - Sat 13 Sep Exhibition of badminton memorabilia which is normally on view in National Badminton Centre. National Badminton Centre, Bradwell Road, Loughton Lodge, Milton Keynes MK8 9LA

Westfield Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK2 2RA Bletchley Park Community Days - Thur 11 to Sat 13 Sep Bletchley Park will be getting into the spirit of Heritage Open Days by offering free entry to Milton Keynes residents and celebrating the history which makes local communities The Mansion, Bletchley Park, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB

Sounds of Georgian Stowe - The Gothic Temple - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep The Gothic Temple is a splendid, historic folly built in the gardens at Stowe in 1741. Stowe School, Stowe MK18 5DF

Talk: Code-Breaking, Bletchley Park - Thur 11 Sep Talk given by Tom Brigg, Education Officer, Bletchley Park Museum on Code-Breaking.

Bletchley Library, Westfield Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2RA

Bradwell Windmill Open Day - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep Early 1800’s windmill, newly restored to working order and able to mill by wind-power or electric motor. Bradwell Windmill, Nightingale Crescent, Bradville, Milton Keynes MK13 7UE

Women’s Football - a brief history - Thur 11 to Sun 14 Sep A small exhibition that celebrates the hosting of the 2014 Women’s FA Cup Final at Stadium:MK. Outlining the story of the women’s game since the first recorded match. Pitchside Bar, 2nd Floor, DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Stadium:MK, Milton Keynes MK1 1ST

An Exhibition of Work by Lesley HumphreysSat 13 and Sun 14 Sep We will be opening to the public with performances, exhibitions and open studios taking place over the weekend.

Westbury Arts Centre, Foxcovert Road, Shenley Wood, Milton Keynes MK5 6AA Roald Dahl Day celebrations - Sat 13 Sep For all ages: come and celebrate Roald Dahl’s birthday with us! A jam-packed day of events and activities, including a Golden Ticket trail, magic and face-painting and Oompa-Loompa. 8183 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Open Studios and Exhibition at Inter-Action MK - Thur 11 to Sun 14 Sep Inter-Action MK’s resident artist will have their studios open and there will be an exhibition of work in our art room space. The Old Rectory, Waterside, Peartree Bridge, Milton Keynes MK6 3EJ

Shakespeare in the Garden - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep We will be open to the public with performances, exhibitions and open studios taking place over the weekend. Westbury Arts Centre, Foxcovert Road, Shenley Wood, Milton Keynes MK5 6AA

Milton Keynes Museum - Open Days and Annual Beer Festival - Thur 11 to Sun 14 Sep Victorian farmhouse and school room, street of shops, working telephones, Hall of Transport and much more in a beautiful setting of an historical Victorian Model Farm site. Milton Keynes Museum, McConnell Drive, Wolverton, Milton Keynes MK12 5EL

Discover local heritage at the Cowper and Newton Museum - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep See William Cowper’s Summer House that he fondly called his ’verse manufactory’ in our beautiful Georgian garden. Cowper and Newton Museum, Orchard Side, Market Place, Olney, Milton Keynes MK46 4AJ

Through the Lens, Living Archive MK - Fri 12 Sep A glimpse of the history of Milton Keynes in moving images compiled from archive footage from 1940s to the present day. Milton Keynes Gallery, 900 Midsummer Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 3QA

Family History Workshop: Your First World War Ancestors - Sat 13 Sep Do you need help in finding out what your ancestors did during WWI? Drop in with their information if you have it: full name, date of birth, regiment or postal address.

Local Studies Library (Milton Keynes Central Library), 555 Silbury Boulevard, Central Milton Keynes, MK9 3HL

Ring of Steel - Fri 12 Sep An opportunity to look at the display of photos that are around the Concourse. These are school photos as well as individual photos. StadiumMK, Stadium Way West, Milton Keynes MK1 1ST The 12th Cock and Bull Real Beer and Cider Festival - Fri 12 and Sat 13 Sep Two dozen real beers and ciders - mostly from the local region and wines and juices courtesy of the local Fairtrade group (charge for drinks). Free entry to enjoy music York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1JQ

Marlow’s own Last Night of the Proms - Sat 13 Sep Marlow will have its very own Last Night of the Proms on Saturday 13th September. The concert features the ever-popular Marlow Music Makers, singing a selection of their recent

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Handmade Craft Fair - Sat 20 Sep Craft Fair, where Everything Is Handmade, and no bought-in or mass produced goods will be found. Items will include: Jewellery, Art, Woodcrafts, Stoneware & Pottery, Fabric & Knitted Goods. British Legion Hall, Queensmead Road, Loudwater, High Wycombe HP10 9XA

material. Christ Church URC, Oxford Road, Marlow SL7 2NL Little Chalfont Farmers’ Market - Sat 13 Sep Great selection of quality, locally produced food at this monthly market. Buy rare-breed pork, bacon and sausages, buffalo meat, lamb, game and poultry. Plus seasonal fruit and vegetables.

Village Hall car park, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont HP8 4UD

From Chesham to Bollywood with a Fairtrade Cuppa - Sat 20 Sep An evening of food, dance & inspiration hosted by Chesham4Fairtrade.

Fantastic food provided by trendy new Indian restaurant Papad with free Fairtrade tea & coffee. Chesham Town Hall, Chesham HP5 1DS

Medieval Re-enactment Fair - Sat 13 Sep Join us for a unique, entertaining and informative day of medieval displays and re-enactment from The Lion Rampant. Enjoy a truly exciting day of archery, squire training, dancing, music.

Missenden Abbey, London Road, Great Missenden HP16 0BD

Augustus Gloop trail - Sat 20 and Sun 21 Sep For all ages: go on a hunt for Augustus Gloop’s chocolate wrappers and find out facts about the Museum.81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre - Vintage Train Steaming Open Day - Sun 14 Sep A chance to ride on our historic Vintage Stock dating from the 1890s with no extra charge. Buckinghamshire Railway Centre occupies an extensive site in rolling Buckinghamshire countryside.

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

Traction Engine Rally Buckinghamshire Railway Centre - Sat 20 and Sun 21 Sep Traction Engine Rally An exciting weekend of steaming monsters, side shows, stalls and displays. Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY

Chilterns Countryside and Food Festival - Sun 14 Sep Visit the Wycombe Museum marquee and discover how some local trades are closely linked to the woodlands of the Chilterns. Ashridge Estate Visitors Centre, Moneybury Hill HP4 1LX

Marlow Food Festival - Sun 21 Sep Now in its 5th year, the Marlow Food Festival is established as an event that attracts more the 2000 people to sample the stall’s delights, watch food demonstrations. The Compleat Angler Hotel, Marlow Bridge SL7 1RG

Brian Lara Invitational Cricket Day at Wormsley Cricket on the Getty Family Estate - Sun 14 Sep Raising funds for the Rwanda Cricket Stadium Foundation, with stars including Brian Lara and Andrew Strauss.

The Wormsley Estate Stokenchurch - just 30 seconds off Junction 5 of the M40 HP14 3YG

Town Tour and Tea with the Mayor - Sun 21 Sep Mayor’s Appeal - Town Tour and Tea with the Mayor Tours at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm - starting from Wycombe Museum Support the Mayor’s Appeal with a guided town tour followed by tea and cakes. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue.

High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Roald Dahl Day challenge - Sun 14 Sep Follow a trail through the Museum and around the village of Great Missenden to discover facts about Roald Dahl. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Lunchtime Concert: Robert Cheung (Piano) Weds 24 Sep We welcome Robert Cheung, who enthralled our lunchtime audience last year, and which made him an irresistible choice for this year’s lunchtime concert series. He will play works by Beethoven, Liszt. All Saints Church, Church Square, High Wycombe HP11 2BN

Tudor Fayre & Charter Day - Sun 14 Sep Tudor Fayre and Charter Day - events and activities for all the family in the Museum’s walled garden and Aylesbury’s Market Square. Buckinghamshire County Museum & Market Square, Aylesbury HP20 2QP

Chiltern Painters Art Exhibition - Thur 25 to Sun 28 Sep The Chiltern Painters will be holding their Art Exhibition at the The Market Hall, Old Amersham, HP7 0DP

Marlow Carnival - Sat 20 Sep The Carnival is organised by the Marlow Community Association and has been an annual event for close on 30 years. Well supported by the local community, with Bar, BBQ and a Tea Boutique Higginson Park, Marlow SL7 2AE

"Woman in Mind" by Alan Ayckbourn - Fri 26 to Sun 28 Sep Chesham Bois Catholic Players’ autumn production of "Woman in Mind" is widely regarded as one of Alan Ayckbourn’s best plays.

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The Little Theatre by the Park, Church Street, Chesham HP5 1HU

and exhibitors at your disposal. Berry Hill, Taplow, Nr Maidenhead SL6 0DA

Hugless Douglas - Sat 27 Sep Hugless Douglas is a huggable, lovable young brown bear who wakes up one morning in need of a hug. He tries to find the perfect one, but none of them seem quite right. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

’Looks Like Love’ - Mon 29 and Tue 30 Sep Creating Sunshine Theatre Company have produced a new 60 minute musical called ‘Looks Like Love’ written by Mark Britton. Wooburn Club, 16 The Green, Wooburn Green HP10 0EF

Jazz Supper - Double Bill- Sat 27 Sep This year we are pleased to feature award winning instrumental Jazz musician - Craig Milverton and his trio and the virtuoso vibraphonist Anthony Kerr. Royal British Legion, Flackwell Heath HP10 9NS

Aylesbury Farmers’ Market - Tue 30 Sep Find fantastic local produce at Aylesbury Farmers Market on the last Tuesday of every month. Also browse the stalls of the Vintage & Craft Bazaar to find unique handmade, antique and collectable. Market Square, Aylesbury HP20 1TW

Drawing from Nature: Workshop- Sat 27 Sep 1:30pm - 3:30pm. Observational drawing from natural history specimens led by Katrina van Grouw, author and illustrator of The Unfeathered Bird. Buckinghamshire County Museum and Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP To be included in future listings Email: thesticks9@gmail.com

Wooburn Singers - Come and Sing- Sat 27 Sep Musical Director Tom Hammond-Davies has chosen an early work by Handel - Dixit Dominus (composed in his early 20’s which predates the Messiah). The Beaconsfield School, Wattleton Road, Beaconsfield HP9 1SJ

Putting ‘Listings’ in the subject line, giving details of your event and contact details.

Deadline for October Issue 15th September ………………………………………………………………………………

Moonrakers Celtic Music- Sat 27 Sep Moonrakers (www.moonrakers.net) are four consummate musicians playing harp, fiddle, whistles, guitar, Irish bouzouki and female/male vocals. St Michael’s Church, Stewkley, Nr Leighton Buzzard, LU7 OHL Mike Teavee trail - Sat 27 and Sun 28 Sep For all ages: hunt for Mike Teavee’s sunglasses around the Museum and discover fantabulous facts about the creation of this televisionobsessed character. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

www.the-sticks.co.uk The No1 what’s on and lifestyle magazine in Herts, Beds and Bucks Over 16,000 readers every month read about what’s on, where to go and what to do

Buckingham Garden Centre Apple Weekend Sat 27 and Sun 28 Sep Buckingham Garden Centre’s Celebration of The Apple in all its Guises. Buckingham Garden Centre, Tingewick Road, Buckingham MK18 4AE

Promote your event, show, restaurant or business in our digital magazine or on our website Call 07756 274444 Or email thesticks9@gmail.com Prices from £10 per month Follow us on twitter @thesticks9

Sugar and Spice - Sat 27 Sep Why is it a ‘Victoria’ Sponge? What biscuits were eaten in World War 1? Join us for coffee and a cake in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research and find out about cakes. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue. High Wycombe HP13 6PX

www.facebook.com/sticksmag Listen to the Sticks Radio show every Monday at 10am at www.secklowsounds.org

Wedding Fair at Taplow House Hotel - Sun 28 Sep All the needs of your special day under one roof enhanced by a beautiful venue with staff 34

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