Sticks September 2016

Issue 43 Sept 2016

In this edition of The Sticks Exclusive interview with Jimmy Osmond Interview with Comedian Miles Jupp Russell Grant’s September Horoscopes Win a table for 10 at the UK’s Favourite Christmas party (worth £500) Hero Cheese of the Month Advice from Consensus HR BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace – Ban The Beads We review the Bangkok Lounge, Shefford 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 Jimmy Osmond Interview with Comedian Miles Jupp HR Column from Consensus HR Curwens Column Art Column Russell Grant’s Horoscopes for September Tips on Empty Nesting Janey Lee Grace – Ban the Beads Win a table for 10 at the UK’s Favourite Christmas party (worth £500) Hero Cheese of the Month Big Barn Food Column Bangkok Lounge, Shefford - Review Listings – Herts, Beds & Bucks

Page 4-7 8-9 10-11 13 14-15 16-17 18-19 20 23 25 26 27-29 32

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

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 (repeated on Thursdays at 11am) on Secklow Sounds FM 105.5 FM www.secklowsounds.org

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Exclusive Interview with Jimmy Osmond Jimmy Osmond began his 50 year show business career at the age of three. He was the first in his family to receive a gold record at five years old. Collectively, Jimmy as a solo artist and with his family, share 59 gold and platinum records and other prestigious entertainment awards. In 1972, Jimmy occupied the prestigious Christmas Number One spot with “Long Haired Lover from Liverpool.” It was the biggest selling single of the year and went on to spend a staggering 27 weeks in the charts. This hit also put Jimmy in the Guinness Book of Records as the youngest person ever to top the UK charts – a record he still holds to this day.

Jimmy still enjoys making and producing music today with his latest release being “Moon River and Me.” Jimmy has also had the opportunity to perform in musical theatre including everything from playing Teen Angel in “Grease” in the West End, to Billy Flynn in the play “Chicago,” to Captain Hook in the British Panto “Peter Pan,” and many more.

Over the years, Jimmy has also appeared on numerous television shows and reality programs including, “Fame,” “Love Boat,” ITV’s “I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!,” as well as “Celebrity Family Fortunes,” “Celebrity Come Dine With Me,” “Popstar to Operastar,” and most recently, “Celebrity Master Chef.”

You had a number 1 at Christmas in 1972 with "Long Haired Lover from Liverpool", does that song still haunt you? Yes I was kind of like Bob the Builder of the day. It was one of those songs that was so over played, it is like that “Happy” song you know what I mean. People for a while did not like it because it was so over played but it is fun now, in concert if I leave it out of the set people get mad. It is part of their history and it is fun to look back and go that was part of what I did. The funny thing was that I had no idea then where Liverpool was when I recorded it, but it was really about The Beatles if you listen to the words and I quickly became knowledgeable about where Liverpool was. It was a crazy song and think every one needs one of those in their repertoire!

You have been in show business for 50 years? Yes, this year marks the 50th year but of course my brothers have been in it longer. I started on the Andy Williams show, I was 3 years old and I never thought show business would last for me, I am grateful I have done what I love for so many years.

You have done all sorts over the years including panto? I love pantomime and have done about 5 of them and a lot of my American friends - they don’t get it. I do, I grew up working in England and I love it. What I most love about a panto is that people of all ages enjoy it and they bring their family, it is good for everyone if it is well produced. I love musical theatre and played Billy Flynn in Chicago and did

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Grease in the West end and all kinds of shows. It is funny doing those shows is like how I grew up, being part of a team and it is a lot of fun working along side other cast members.

As you mentioned, you were on the Andy Williams Show when you were 3 years and at the time and up until his death in 2012, he was a big star, did you really realise how much of an icon he was? Andy was the pioneer of variety television and we were fortunate enough to be part of the show. My brothers were discovered by Walt Disney himself and they became the featured act on all of Andy’s shows and also sang backing on all his records and I just wanted to join the ranks. I thought every kid did what I did and we just toured the world with him. Back then, if you had told me I would end up owning a theatre (Jimmy purchased the Andy Williams Moon River Performing Arts Centre in Branson, Missouri from Andy’s family in 2014) producing shows and keeping that tradition alive, I would have thought you were nuts, but here we are doing it. It is a 2,100 seated venue and I produce about 400 shows a year, they are various kinds of shows. He had a big operation here and I guess I was crazy to step up and do it but I did it emotionally as that was the way I was raised and it was something the boss (God) asked me to do.

Do you not find it hard work as you get older? No, we can always relax when we are dead. I don’t consider what I do work at all; stopping doing what you love is not fun at all so to take on new projects and be involved in these variety and reality shows - it is the tapestry experiences that make your life full.

You have done lots of TV and reality shows as well as the variety shows? Yes, one of the first things I did was “Fame” I loved doing it. I played a student who was handicapped or challenged, his name was Troy and the first show I did won an award, it was just a great script and they asked me back, so I did it again and they wanted me to be a regular and I said “I don’t think so guys”. Then I did the “Love Boat” I really enjoyed guest starring on that and the other people on the show we had grown up with had appeared with us and we had appeared on their shows.

Then I did some reality shows “I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!,” as well as “Celebrity Family Fortunes,” “Celebrity Come Dine With Me,” in the UK followed by “Popstar to Operastar” which was quite interesting. I love doing them as you are learning new skills at such an intense level. You totally don’t know what you are doing and you take away friendship with the people who are in the competitions; in fact I just did the “Celebrity Master Chef” with Sid Owen, he was in the jungle with me and so was Tommy of Cannon and Ball; so it is funny you come across the same people and you always walk away having had a great time.

It was an accident how I got in to “Celebrity Master Chef”, my daughter loves cooking shows and we watch them together and I cook a little bit but nothing great. I was over in the UK promoting my tour and the PR people said “would it not be good if you could have a go” so I said I would do it and be a hero for my daughter. I never thought I would go all the way to the final. I had so many neat experiences like going to Howarth, where the Bronte family were and cooking there, and then cooking for Chelsea pensioners, in honour of the Queens birthday, 5

under these amazing Michelin star chefs and to be able to cook at that level and under that pressure was just an amazing experience.

You have a new album out called “Moon River and Me”? Yes, it is to go along with the tour. It features all the award winning songs that I love and have a connection with from when I worked with Andy Williams for so many years. My daughter, Sophia sings on the album’s bonus track which is a tribute to Frank and Nancy Sinatra, who I also worked with when I was a little boy. I would have been 5 or 6 years old and I would go on and sing “That’s Life” in Las Vegas on Nancy’s show and I did that song because recently she has lost her brother (Frank Junior) and it reminded me of those days, so I had my daughter sing with me that very song she sang with Frank. It is all part of the same era.

What are the best and worst things about growing up in the music business? I think there is good and bad in everything you do. For me it has been a great ride, I have had failures and successes and what business don’t you have that in? The hard part is just managing your own emotions which include ego and are you in it for the right reasons. I never got into show business to be famous; I just wanted to do what my family did. I think if you go into it wanting a craft and wanting a long career rather than just to be famous then you have a good ride but if you go in there saying look at me and always looking in the mirror at yourself then I think you end up having a real struggle. Not everybody can stay on top, it is a rollercoaster ride and you’re not always the flavour of the month.

You have got to be able to handle those hard times, when nobody cares and also the times when people do and how do you manage that and stay real. I think I was lucky, I grew up having the support of brothers and my sister that loved me, also good parents that realise it is a phoney business and you need to do it for the right reasons. When I was growing up it was always about what show are we going to do, where are we going but it was always trying to do our best. We were not always financially that smart, we would get a guarantee from ABC or another big TV network to produce a show and we would always spend more money than they had given us, so it was a habit really, we were trying to be the best we could be but it was a great way to grow up.

You have done a lot of reality shows and both Marie and Donny have done Dancing with The Stars in America, do you fancy a go at it? Marie was on first, I was helping manage her at the time and she did not want to do it but it was the best thing she could have done and then Donny did it a couple of years later and won it. He did really well. I have been asked to do some crazy things but I think there has been one too many Osmond’s on it but maybe I might fancy doing the UK version, you know me I am never afraid to try anything.

It is well known you are in to religion and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, do you think that has helped you in your career? I don’t think it has ever helped us in our career but it has helped us manage our career and our lives and I think being a Christian and being vocal about is really kind of different when you’re having rock and roll hits. We were just a family trying to navigate this 6

crazy world of entertainment, it gave us something to stand for and for us having the belief in Christ and also the belief there is more to this life and having an understanding that it matters how we treat each other also having a code of living.

We try very hard to be respectful, it has really saved us. I am still a devout Mormon and I am proud of that and it is nice to see my children following in that way. My Mum had respect for all religions and she said there is truth in all of them, it has really helped us.

In 2004 you were on stage and taken ill, what actually happened? Yes, I had a TI (a small stroke) whilst in Missouri recording a TV show, Jimmy Osmond's American Jukebox. I was doing two shows a day, six days a week and I remember I was on stage and something popped in my head and my balance and sight went; I managed to finish the show and I drove home and thought it was a massive headache. The tests revealed I had suffered a stroke, but it caused no permanent damage. Also I learnt that I had a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO), a hole in the septal wall of my heart, which was later surgically corrected. I am 100 percent now but it was scary.

You can see Jimmy live on stage with two different shows Moon River and Me With BGT singer Charlie Green and the Moon River Band & Dancers Friday 14th October – Waterside, Aylesbury Wednesday 19th October – Grove Theatre, Dunstable

Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza Featuring Jimmy and his Brothers, Merrill & Jay and guests from Britain’s Got Talent, Ventriloquist - Steve Hewlett & Singer Charlie Green Plus The Moon River Singers & Dancers Monday 19th December – Watford Colosseum

Twitter @jimmyosmond www.jimmyosmond.com

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Interview with Comedian Miles Jupp Comedian Miles Jupp describes his new show, Songs of Freedom, as “a rant about me, you, domestic imprisonment, fatherhood, having to have opinions, hot drinks, the government, bad balance, housing, ill health, the ageing process, navigation and other people's pants”. That's a very long list of thing to be fretting about; I say when we meet for a coffee to talk about taking the show on tour. “Oh, I'm not a fretter,” he replies thoughtfully. “More a despairer.”

But his fans shouldn't despair, nor indeed fret; in conversation Miles is warm and witty, and in no way negative about his situation in life. It's just that the modern world can – in his word – “discombobulate” him.

Take a recent incident at the house he shares with his wife, Rachel, and their five children in the Welsh borders. “I can get angry very, very quickly about inanimate objects, particularly if they don't do what I want them to do,” says Miles.

“We've just had a new boiler put in and I can't operate it. I've read the instructions but it's got this enormous control panel and I don't understand it, or for that matter why it makes the radiators come on at 3am. The man who installed it has to come back and talk us through it.

“And now we have bought a smart TV and, after not having had a television for eight years, it's all slightly baffling. It's the equivalent of going on a yoga retreat and in the intervening time the industrial revolution has happened. 'What's going on? I don't know how to use a loom...'

“Of course our seven-year-old understands how the TV works perfectly, but I can't very well go and wake him up at midnight and say, 'We want to watch Peaky Blinders, come and find it for us...'” In case you're thinking that Miles is a man born out of his time, he goes on to wax lyrical about the reversing camera in the family car. “It's just brilliant,” he says. “It's just that I am slightly out of kilter with the modern world and I do come at things from a different angle sometimes.”

You will by now have guessed that Miles is a man who can have a joke at his own expense, and that his wit is the kind that demands there should be a typeface called “ironic” for conversations such as this. When I ask if the new show contains any material about his young family, he responds: “Why talk about something as wonderful as my children when I could be talking about something completely pointless? The show can be summed up as: 'I don't tweet, but I write down things that ought to be a tweet, and here they are'.” In actuality it's a very funny, wry take on life.

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Many of Miles' fans will be keen listeners to Radio 4's topical comedy show ‘The News Quiz’, which he took over as host of last year, and which he is enjoying enormously. “I love working as part of a team, and I hope people listening get some sense of me as a person, rather than just some bloke capable of reading stuff out loud.”

Miles' father was a minister in the United Reform Church and he himself studied Divinity at Edinburgh University. While still a student there he started acting and, for those of a certain age, he will forever be Archie the Inventor in CBeebies' Balamory. “I often get people come up to me and start talking about it,” he says. “For me it was a long time ago, but for them it's a defining part of their childhood.”

Apart from ‘The News Quiz’, people know Miles from television as fusspot Nigel in the ecclesiastical comedy ‘Rev’, as Captain Fanshaw in soldiering comedy Gary Tank Commander, as John Duggan in ‘The Thick of It’ and from his self-penned ‘In and Out of the Kitchen’, in which he played minor celebrity chef Damian Trench. Miles says ‘In and Out’ of the Kitchen won't return to the BBC, but he is currently writing Damian's memoir, due for publication later this year.

He also appeared as the Valet of Greystoke in The Legend of Tarzan, which was released earlier this year in July, and is Blackberry in an upcoming new adaptation of Richard Adams' Watership Down for the BBC, part of a star-studded cast that includes Sir Ben Kingsley, Gemma Arterton and John Boyega from Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

He usually gets to play posh and/or clever chappie roles, but says he would really love to be cast as a baddie. I suggest that's because, as an unfailingly polite man, he would love to play against type, and he agrees. "You would get to cut loose and say bad things,” Miles says. “You can be unpleasant without having to apologise for it."

In the meantime, audiences at his live shows will be able to enjoy the real version of Miles having a rant at modern life's multiple irritations – politely, of course, without a hint of unpleasantness but with a lot of laughs.

Miles Jupp: Songs of Freedom can be seen....

7 September - The Stables, Milton Keynes 9 & 10 September - Hertford Theatre, Hertford 11 October - Alban Arena, St Albans

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Managing Pokémon Go in the Workplace Pokémon Go has reached the UK and is THE mobile gaming app of the moment.

How should employers manage Pokémon Go in their workplaces?

Pokémon Go is an augmented reality game that challenges users to find and catch Pokémon characters in their real world surroundings.

The official Pokémon website explains: “As you move around, your smartphone will vibrate to let you know you’re near a Pokémon. Once you’ve encountered a Pokémon, take aim on your smartphone’s touch screen and throw a Poké Ball to catch it. Be careful when you try to catch it, or it might run away!”

“Everyone seems to be going Pokémon Go mad!” says Matthew from Consensus HR. “I recently read that the owner of the local garden centre was concerned due to their business being shown on the program.

“They were experiencing a number of people visiting their centre and not looking where they were going in their busy car park, causing accidents. This problem is literally world-wide thanks to the popularity of this game!”

So how are businesses adapting to this new gaming app and should they?

Playing Pokémon Go vs. Working CIPD reports that the take-up Pokémon Go has been so remarkable – and the experience of playing it so immersive – that employers may need to revisit their policies to prevent a productivity glut. Boeing has become the first business to ban it at work.

Its article states that: “Aircraft manufacturer Boeing was forced to issue an email to its workforce banning play during working hours after the company discovered the game app had been installed on more than 100 work phones since its release. A member of staff also came close to injury while playing the game at work.

There are potential upsides to the new craze. Pokémon Go players are walking miles at a time as they search out characters, and reporting positive effects on their health. Reports from the US suggest autistic children benefit from the interaction and socialisation encouraged by the game.

However, Tom Currie, a barista and bartender from New Zealand, showed the potential for the game to reach extremes when he became the first person to quit his job in favour of a full-time bid to ‘catch ‘em all’. The BBC reported that Currie had already caught 91 of the 151 Pokémon available in the game.

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Some employers are taking a more light-hearted approach to prohibition. An image that went viral on Twitter recently showed an internal memo at an unnamed company, which read: “We are paying you to work, not chase fictional videogame characters with your cell phone all day. Save it for your break time, otherwise you’ll have plenty of time unemployed to catch ‘em all.”

Matthew from Consensus HR says: “It’s easy to see why this phenomenon is currently causing problems for employers.”

“This situation needs to be managed correctly as with all social media and use of mobiles devices in the workplace. We encourage business owners to have a comprehensive telephone and social media policy in place that is followed by all.

We also suggest that mobiles and tablets should be kept in a secure environment whilst at work. If an employee’s role requires him or her to have one at hand, then misuse could be classed as abuse of company property. This is when efficient contracts and disciplinary procedures are essential.”

Are your employees catching Pokémon characters in your workplace? Find out how to manage this unusual and disruptive situation. Talk to Matthew from Consensus HR – and ask him about a free HR health check – as well as Pokémon Go.

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 £50 per month

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Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery Fairtrade Festival From 7th to 8th October, Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery is set to host its first Fairtrade Festival at the company’s Hertfordshire Jewellery Centre in Halls Green, near Weston. A gold miner from the MACDESA mine in Peru will be travelling to the UK and visiting the jewellers to talk about his experiences and the difference that Fairtrade has made to the lives of miners, their families and communities.

Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery is proud to have played its part in launching Fairtrade gold in 2011 and helping it to become established in the UK jewellery industry. The company is committed to raising the profile of Fairtrade within the industry and educating customers that by choosing Fairtrade gold over ‘standard’ gold they are offering a lifeline to artisanal miners and their communities.

Senior Designer and company Fairtrade ‘ambassador’ Laurie McGrath says, “When a customer chooses Fairtrade gold, their jewellery becomes an emotional link between them and the miner. Buying Fairtrade gold makes a world of difference to miners, their families and their communities. Every piece of jewellery has a story and when that story involves the building of a new school or clean drinking water then it is most definitely a tale worth telling”.

Driven by passion and integrity, Harriet added, “Those of us who are lucky enough to be at the top of any business are in the fortunate position of making choices that really matter. Bespoke jewellery may indeed be a luxury, but it should not be enjoyed at the expense of anyone else. It should not be selfish or ignorant of others’ plight and our decision to do our best not to let anybody suffer in the jewellery supply chain really matters. From that point, it’s a small step to convincing our customers that choosing Fairtrade gold empowers them to make a difference”.

Harriet was nominated in 2014 by Institute of Directors as one of six ‘Women Most Changing the Business World’ largely due to her ethical stance in an industry historically blighted when it comes to ethics or environmental matters. The judges felt that ‘through her emphasis on bespoke design, ethically sourced gems and Fairtrade gold, Harriet has helped revitalise the jewellery industry.’ Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery was awarded ‘Bridal Jewellery Retailer of the Year’ at the 2016 UK Jewellery Awards. The company was distinguished as ‘amazing’ by the judges, with their ethical and sustainable business practices also highly praised by the esteemed panel, made up of some of the industry’s most respected figures.

For more information about the Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery Fairtrade Festival, visit www.hkjewellery.co.uk/fairtrade-festival

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YOUR LOCAL SOLICITORS ARE YOU A COMMON LAW SPOUSE? Statistics appear to support the view that marriage is on the decline – particularly where one party in the relationship has already gone through a divorce. You may not feel this is a problem as there is no longer any stigma in society about cohabiting as an unmarried couple. However, many people are under a dangerous misapprehension about how English law protects cohabitees. They believe that after a certain number of years of cohabiting they are “common law husband and wife” and therefore on separation they are entitled to a shared in the property they live in – even if it is not held in their name.

Whilst there have been consultations to decide if new law should be introduced to protect unmarried partners in some form, no decision has been made to date.

If you live in a home which is registered at HM Land Registry in your partner’s sole name it could be very difficult for you to prove you have any right to remain living in that property if the relationship ended and/or that you have any financial interest in that property.

If you split from your partner, you would not be entitled to any ongoing financial support (e.g. maintenance payments) from them, even if they have supported you financially for years during your relationship.

If you have children together, there are some financial claims you can make on behalf of the children to ensure they have a secure home and your partner pays child maintenance. However, this may be temporary housing so that once the children become independent you lose the use of it.

Of course one option is to persuade your partner to marry you ….. but there is an alternative, more cost-effective approach. You can agree terms for a simple Deed of Trust or Cohabitation Agreement - which can set out now what would happen if you ever separated in the future, and clarify what would happen to the home you share.

Such documents can save a lot of money and heartache at a later date if unfortunately the relationship comes to an end.

If you would like any more information on this, or any other area of family law please contact me: amanda.thurston@curwens.co.uk.

Curwens have offices in Royston, Hoddesdon and Enfield.

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YOUNG AND DYNAMIC PHOTOGRAPHER AND ARTIST Jessica Lauren Hartwig is a dynamic young photographer and artist, originally from South Africa, she is now based in Hertfordshire; she studied a BA Hons degree in Photography and Fine Art at the University of Chester.

Pursuing her dream of being a photographer and artist has not always been an easy journey and being told at a young age that she wouldn’t even be able to get a good mark at School for her art work. Instead of allowing herself to be beaten down by the words of others, she decided that all art is subjective and that someone somewhere would appreciate her work for what it was and not what her teachers told her it should be.

As a young photographer she learnt that her heritage was the biggest form of inspiration, everything from the South African landscapes, to the Culture of her home country and her family history. She even went on to base an entire installation on the Apartheid and her family history intertwined within it.

Jessica is an artist inspired by the smallest details, or rather the details that we so often over-look. One of her main inspirations is nature, but not in the conventional way. Jessica is not a photographer that simply loves to take beautiful images of a picturesque location, but a photographer that looks at the nitty gritty of something. Her photographs are often abstract and have an air of ambiguity about them. Where you are not quite sure of what you are looking at or even which way up the image is supposed to go.

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She tends to work predominantly in black and white, using high contrasts and high saturation. She finds that when you work in black and white the smaller details become harder to miss. There is no colour to distract from the small details of the work, but rather the black and white highlights the small grainy details of her work.

Her love of black and white stems from her original love of film photography and producing her own work in a darkroom. However, her work is not limited too black and white and she also uses colour in her work. When she produces colour photography she again likes to use high contrast and saturation.

Since graduating from university she has gone on to start making a name for herself. For a period, she managed a local art gallery where she learnt a lot about the industry and what kind of artist and photographer she wanted to be. She is now concentrating her efforts towards photographing unique and quirky weddings, where she still applies the photography style that makes her tick. Aside from weddings, she is also concentrating on her own personal work and passions.

In September she will be exhibiting some of her work at Mardleybury Gallery for Herts Visual Arts Open Studios.

http://www.jessicalaurenweddings.co.uk/ http://jessicahartwig.wix.com/jlhartwigphotgraphy https://www.facebook.com/jesslaurenweddings/ https://www.facebook.com/jessicalaurenhartwigphotography/

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Russell Grant's Monthly Horoscopes September

CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd The Solar Eclipse on the 1st could force you to assume some unfamiliar responsibilities. The learning curve will be steep, so be patient. Turn a deaf ear to a sour colleague who constantly criticises your performance. They're probably threatened by your presence. Home life will become much more rewarding during the first half of the month. If you've been longing to move, this would be a great time to look for a new place. You could find a spacious, gracious property that is within your budget. A legal decision could be rendered against you on the 16th, due to a stressful Lunar Eclipse. Try not to let this setback stop you enjoying some quality time with loved ones. Your family will help you recover from this disappointment.

You could meet someone special at the end of September. This is a great time to pursue a business or romantic partnership.

ARIES March 21st - April 20th A Solar Eclipse on the 1st will bring a health matter to your attention. You will have to change your daily routine for the sake of your body. Gentle exercise is preferable to strenuous workouts. It's also important to get plenty of rest. Stop burning the candle at both ends.

Fortunately, your best friend or romantic partner will give you lots of support during the first half of the month. Let your loved one relieve you of demanding chores. The Lunar Eclipse on the 16th will bring an end to a period of obscurity. At long last, you can be more vocal about your true feelings. Spending more time on your personal life is strongly advised during the second half of September. Be more attentive to your romantic partner. If you're single, you will meet someone special at a religious or cultural organisation. Keep your ears open for someone with an attractive accent.

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

The Solar Eclipse on the 1st urges you to take a second look at your values.

Instead of pursuing wealth and status, you should focus on doing what you love. If that means leaving a toxic job or relationship, so be it. There's a good chance you will have to take a financial loss to move in a happier, healthier direction. Studying a subject you love will be a welcome distraction during the first half of September.

You might also relocate to a culturally enriching area. On the 16th, there will be a Lunar Eclipse that allows you to break free of a restrictive financial arrangement.

Although this will mean less income, this turn of events will allow you to become more self sufficient. Working for a company that is located overseas is a distinct possibility. Alternatively, you might be able to move to a place that has lots of jobs in your desired industry.

A Solar Eclipse on the 1st will prompt you to make more time for pleasurable activities. You're tired of being the responsible one. Go on holiday, enjoy some rest and put chores on the back burner. Others may protest and accuse you of being lazy, but pay no attention. They've just become accustomed to you doing all the work. Finding a job that draws on your creative talent is a strong possibility during the first half of the month. If this means taking a pay cut, so be it. It's more important to be happy than earn tons of money. The Lunar Eclipse on the 16th will prompt you to break away from a restrictive relationship. This will put a crimp in your finances, but you can't put a price on independence. Fortunately, you will make great strides at work and may quickly earn a series of promotions. Try pooling resources with a friend at the end of September.

VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st

The Solar Eclipse on the 1st will prompt you to make big changes to your personal life. It's time to break off a relationship that has been draining you of time, money and energy. You may feel a little lonely as a result, but stay strong. Becoming more self sufficient will give you the courage to accept new challenges. Pursuing your dream job will be a welcome diversion during the first half of September. You have an opportunity to dramatically improve your financial situation. Don't let a manipulative person lay guilt trips on you. It may be best to cut off contact with a toxic person. A Lunar Eclipse on the 16th will signal the final blow to a troubled relationship.

Spend the second half of September indulging your sensual side. Get a massage, update your image and splash out on new clothes. It's important to treat yourself well during this intense time.

The Solar Eclipse on the 1st prompts you to make some big changes to your home life. You're no longer willing to endure a relative's bad behaviour.

Moving to your own place or asking them to leave will be painful but therapeutic. Your love life will undergo a dramatic improvement during the first half of the month. Similarly, your creative juices will be flowing freely. Take this opportunity to spend more time on the people and activities you love. A Lunar Eclipse on the 16th will bring the end to a career matter. Although the prospect of finding a new job may be scary, it will also be exhilarating. Working overseas or enrolling in a college will be a welcome change of pace. Turn to your romantic partner when your courage starts to falter.

They'll be happy to supply the support you need to make a fresh start. You might have to dip into savings in late September.

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matters like work, status and money, you'll turn your attention inward. Adopting a spiritual practice is a strong possibility. You might also spend more time reading, writing and communing with nature. If you feel lonely, you'll get involved with a charitable organisation.

Devoting your life to making the world a better place will make you feel stronger, happier and healthier. By midmonth, you may feel compelled to leave a toxic industry or step down from a high pressure position. The Lunar Eclipse on the 16th could put an end to defeatist attitudes. Instead of taking the conservative approach to life, you'll become more spontaneous and open minded.

You'll make friends from different walks of life and become less judgemental. As a result, you'll discover a level of personal power you never knew existed. Develop your leadership ability as September winds down.

LIBRA Sept 24th - October 23rd A Solar Eclipse on the 1st prompts you to take more time for solitary pursuits. You're very impressionable.

Being surrounded by persuasive people can undermine your ability to make healthy decisions. Get some distance from people who don't have your best interests at heart. It will be easier to become assertive as mid-month approaches.

The Lunar Eclipse on the 16th brings an end to a draining relationship. Although this situation will be upsetting, it is also an opportunity to heal from some deep pain.

Spending time on solitary pursuits can be therapeutic.

Take this opportunity to cultivate your considerable creative talent. If you've ever wanted to buy your own place, you will be able to as September draws to a close.

Take this opportunity to build some long term security for yourself. Fame and acclaim could arrive as a result of an impressive accomplishment. Get ready for your close up. Use this publicity as a springboard to bigger and better assignments.

AQUARIUS Jan 21st - February 19th A Solar Eclipse on the 1st will prompt you to let down your defences with a trustworthy partner. In the past, you insisted on retaining your independence. Now you realise selfreliance is overrated. Joining forces with someone who offers unconditional love and support will be empowering. With your amour's encouragement, you could book an overseas trip you've wanted to take for years. Alternatively, you may decide to get an advanced degree. A Lunar Eclipse on the 16th will bring an end to a source of income. Stay calm. It may take time to find a position that is worthy of your talent. Be willing to accept a temporary job as a means to pay the bills. Working for a government agency or bureaucracy may not be stimulating, but it will keep you financially afloat. Don't let pride get in the way of making economically sound decisions at the end of September.

SCORPIO Oct 24th - November 22nd Attending to your physical needs will become increasingly important at the start of the month. Take this opportunity to enjoy some gourmet meals, spa treatments and soaks in the bathtub. If this means spending less time on a demanding loved one, so be it. Waiting for others to satisfy your desires will be an exercise in futility. Solitary pursuits can be a profound source of pleasure during the first half of the month. Spend more time reading, writing and communing with nature. A financial shortage warns against taking risks during the second part of September.

Be as resourceful as possible. A Lunar Eclipse on the 16th makes you yearn for fun. It may be necessary to cut back your hours at work to recover from burnout. Fortunately, there will be a round of parties at the end of the month.

Attend as many of these social functions as possible; mixing with friends will lift your spirits.

PISCES February 20th - March 20th The Solar Eclipse on the 1st marks a turning point in a close relationship. Assuming a more dominant role is critical to the health of this union. Resist the urge to defer to your amour whenever conflicts arise.

Being more assertive will earn your partner's respect and build your own confidence. Satisfying your sensual side will become an increasing priority during the first half of September. Treat yourself to good food, beautiful clothes and luxurious toiletries. Buy yourself some enticing cologne and enjoy long soaks in the tub and relaxing naps. Continually denying yourself of such simple pleasures can make you angry and resentful. A Lunar Eclipse on the 16th will prompt you to be more outspoken at work. Standing up to a pushy authority figure will cause your stature to rise. Towards the end of the month, if you are given a choice between taking a flat salary and earning a commission, choose the latter.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23rd - Decr 21st A Solar Eclipse on the 1st causes you to embark on a brand new career path. You might become fed up with your current line of work.

Alternatively, your desired field could dry up quite quickly. Changing direction will be challenging but rewarding. Your friends will be critical in finding a new position. Spread the word among loved ones. You should also make good use of social media.

Someone could hear of a job that is tailor made for your strengths and weaknesses. The Lunar Eclipse on the 16th will put pressure on your home life. It may be better to move to an area where you can easily pursue your favourite activities. Your social life will pick up considerably during the second half of September.

Attend as many parties as possible. Making new friends can advance both your personal and professional prospects. You'll face stiff competition with a moneymaking opportunity at the end of the month.

www.russellgrant.com Call Russell Grant's Psychics & Mediums now on 0906 539 1526 (ÂŁ1.50p per min + phone access charge, 18+) or pay by Credit/Debit card on 0207 111 6162 Calls to 0906 cost ÂŁ1.50p per minute plus your phone providers access charge;18+ only. All calls are recorded for your protection & safety. This Entertainment service is regulated by PhonePayPlus and is provided by Russell Grant Astrology Ltd. Customer Services 0808 206 4514

CAPRICORN Dec 22nd - January 20th The Solar Eclipse on the 1st will prompt you to change your priorities.

Instead of focusing on superficial

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Tips on Empty Nesting

By Jo Coker Clinical Director Local Counselling Centre

Today my lovely friend Chris dropped in unexpectedly and I was shocked to see how drawn and upset she looked. Over a cup of tea the tears began to “trip her” as she explained how bereft she was feeling about her daughter leaving for her first term at University. “I feel so selfish as she is full of beans and so happy and has worked so hard to get into the course she dreamt of.” So is my friend a selfish Mother? No of course she is not, but she is a Mum who is coming to terms with life changes and the so-called “Empty Nest Syndrome” and at this time of year as we zoom towards that “back to school time” it is rife.

Every year many parents, both Mums and Dads, face this pain as they go through the heart wrenching experience of letting go of a much-loved child. In many respects at this time we find ourselves in conflict. On one hand we have brought them up, and encouraged them, to become independent and fly the nest. On the other hand we want to “grab at their feet and hold them to us a little while longer’.

Chris had popped in to see me, as she knew that I too had experienced these feelings when my children left home. So what advice do I have for Chris and the many parents out there?

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Share their joy; help them prepare for the adventure ahead. Help them buy the “bits and bobs” they will need to make their unfamiliar rooms at University like home.

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Show interest in their course and look at the syllabus and ask questions.

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Even if you feel like weeping, hold it in. Smile happily as you wish them luck and wave them on their way; this is about them not you.

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Help them take responsibility for their own life as befits a young adult. You may think you are being kind giving a financial safety net, but they need to learn to manage the available money and make sensible choices. Avoid using extra money as a means of keeping them dependent.

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Never guilt trip them. Remember their world will be new to them; exciting and scary in equal measure, and they may not be in contact as much as you would like. NEVER say “oh so you have finally rung” be positive ask questions and be upbeat about their experiences, give them your news.

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Embrace technology. Skype, Face-time and texting are also good ways of keeping in touch and letting them know you are there.

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Always be there and keep the door open for them when they need you or have bad days. Listen to them, dust them down and then encourage them back to their new life.

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Welcome their new friends; you will find they will bring friends home if it is a happy experience without pressure.

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Look at the positives, you now have more freedom. What is there you would like to do that has been on hold? You will now have the time and energy for new adventures yourself, grasp this.

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Think about your relationship; often when children leave there is a period of adjustment. For a long time you have been focused on the children now you can give each other some time and get to know each other again without the pressure of family life.

Follow these tips and your relationship will re-configure, as it should do, into that of adults relating to each other and mutually respectful.

If you find you are having difficulty adjusting then seek help. LCC can offer support and counselling from as little as £15.00 per session.

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

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Ban the Beads

It’s been interesting reading recently about the problem with Microbeads in skincare and household products. They are teeny tiny bits of plastic that are in facial scrubs, exfoliants, some toothpaste and products such as cleaning products to give a mild abrasive effect. Typically they are made from polyethylene and they damage the ocean because they end up in the rivers, seas and lakes and potentially poison marine life (who can mistake them for plankton ) and they end up in the food chain.

It’s the sheer numbers that matter, one tube of exfoliating scrub could contain 2.8 million beads and because they are too small to be filtered out by sewage systems it’s thought they contribute considerably to the around 8 million tonnes of plastic in our oceans.

Ethical campaigners have been talking about it for years, many companies have come on board to ban the beads. Waitrose have said they won’t stock beauty products containing them, L’Oreal have said they will phase them out. There’s pressure on the British Government to follow in the footsteps of Obama, who has banned them, and the Canadian Government.

It’s a start but it’s literally a bead in the ocean and it’s not just microbeads that cause issues, all plastic disintegrates. Even synthetic fabrics give off tiny plastic microfibres. Scientific research has found different types of plastic in sealife, and apparently 90 per cent of birds have traces of plastic in their stomachs! Add to that all the other hormone disrupting chemicals that are in skincare and personal care products and it’s a huge problem.

You can do your bit by supporting the companies who don’t use these. If you want a facial exfoliator it’s easy to make your own, use and handful of oatmeal, sea salt and honey, any fruit will work – and of course the avocado face mask is well known for its therapeutic properties. If you want that abrasive effect try tiny fragments of rice or seeds.

If you make a fresh juice (hope so!) use the pulp from your juice as a mask, instead of putting it straight onto the compost, apply and leave on for a few minutes, some of those beneficial live enzymes will still be intact.

If you want to buy great natural soaps www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk and in supermarkets the natural companies stocked in our local health affordable and sustainable.

Check out www.imperfectlynatural.com

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and body washes look at across Herts. Look for some of stores including Green People, my recommendations at

Queen’s Award is just the tonic for pet supplements company Lintbells

Photo: (left to right): Cofounders John Howie & John Davies with Operations Director Nigel Pittman accompanied by Welsh Springer Spaniel Pippa and Moroccan Mountain Dog Jasmine.

British company Lintbells, maker of high quality natural pet supplements, has received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category. The company, which was established in 2006, is known for its commitment to improve the lives of dogs, cats and horses. Its health enhancing supplements are given to over 150,000 dogs in the UK alone, including this year’s Crufts Best in Show.

It was the company’s work in developing its YuMOVE brand that has primarily been responsible for the award in the innovation category. It’s the culmination of many years of ‘inspiration and perspiration’.

The company was established in 2006 by John Howie and John Davies, who were determined to find a solution that worked when John Davies’s Chocolate Labrador, Charlie, suffered joint problems and reduced mobility.

They discovered that around 70% of pet supplements were human equivalents, often of poor quality. There was clearly a gap for a high quality, affordable solution custom made for pets. The product that came out of that initial work was YuMOVE. Soon, Charlie was up on his feet and coping better than ever before.

Before the product came to market there was much more work to be done. Falling back on their backgrounds in science and technology, the duo applied rigorous scientific principles, developing a unique and detailed protocol that has since been used in the development of all Lintbells products.

Starting with a veterinary panel and consulting with experts, Lintbells also asks pet owners what they want. Scientific evaluation and ingredient sourcing are the next stages before the product is fully evaluated by vets and pet owners to ensure it performs.

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Those rigorous trials, often take place in conjunction with research organisations and veterinary schools, such as the Royal Veterinary College, to prove the products make a difference to the pet that’s visible enough to be noticed by the pet owner.

This attention to detail, which also extends to ethical sourcing of the highest quality ingredients, has paid off. YuMOVE is the number one veterinary joint supplement and the subsequent brand, YuMEGA Itchy Dog, which supports skin health, is now rated the UK’s number one veterinary skin supplement.* The two Johns’ passion for YuMOVE and the growing product range has meant that Lintbells has grown rapidly and now employs 45 people near Hitchin in rural Hertfordshire.

John Howie says everyone who works in the company is delighted by the award, “We have a great team of people who love pets and this award means so much to all of us. Being recognised for innovation, an area in which we invest a huge amount of time and effort, is especially welcome because it acknowledges that we are doing everything we can to ensure that our products help keep pets healthy and happy.”

A Queen’s award marks outstanding achievement by a UK company and is one of the highest honours that can be bestowed. As well as being responsible for an increasing number of waggy tails at home, the company also exports to more than 15 countries.

Her Majesty the Queen, who is known for her love of dogs, in particular Corgis and Dorgis (Dachshunds crossed with Corgis), will present Lintbells with the award at a reception at Buckingham Palace.

For more information www.lintbells.com.

about

Lintbells

and

the

YuMEGA

range

visit

About Lintbells For Lintbells, every product starts with a pet in need. Based in Weston in Hertfordshire, Lintbells researches, formulates and sells high quality, innovative supplements that aim to improve the lives of dogs, cats and horses. It’s a commitment the company takes very seriously and has resulted in products that support skin and coat condition, digestive health and joint care.

Established in 2006 by John Howie and John Davies, Lintbells has a strong focus on scientific validation of its products, working with experts such as the Royal Veterinary College and New Zealand’s Marlborough Research Centre. But it doesn’t stop with the science because helping pets is at the core of the business.

At all levels of the Lintbells’ organisation there’s a realisation that collectively, everyone has a responsibility to help keep pets healthy and happy by providing effective, high quality, pet supplements at affordable prices.

And it seems those efforts are increasingly appreciated by pets and their people.

By the end of 2015, 50 million YuMOVE tablets had been sold to pet owners in more than 15 countries. *Gfk VetTrak Sales Data, MAT values (February 2016)

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Win a table for 10 at this year's Best Christmas Party at Aldenham Country Park, Watford (worth £500) Aldenham Country Park, Watford, will be hosting the region’s most sought after Christmas party this year. Best Parties Ever has organised a lavish masquerade ball in the country-side setting and it is set to be a night of indulgence, illusion and intrigue which runs from Thursday 1st December till Thursday 22nd December.

From behind a glamorous mask, guests will be welcomed into the elegant venue complete with living statues and Venetian street theatre. The first stop will of course be one of the event’s intricately carved stone feature bars where visitors can relax with a drink in hand and watch the unique talents of live entertainers.

The sumptuous four course dinner will take place amidst the palatial splendour of Venetian masks and classical candelabras. Whilst enjoying the delicious food, guests will continue to be entertained by fabulous vocals, dance and costumes is interwoven with thrilling displays of acrobatics.

Finally, with a full stomach, party goers can head to the party’s casino or slip back behind your mask and dance the night away!

Be sure to enter this competition so that that you and nine friends will be in with a chance of winning a table at this unforgettable evening!

We have one table of ten to give away on any night of your choice (subject to availability).

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the question below….

What date is the first masquerade ball in Watford?

Email your answer along with your name and a contact phone number to: thesticks9@gmail.com Closing date for entries noon on Friday 11th November 2016

For more details of to book your table www.bestpartiesever.com

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Stranger Things TV Review by Sonny Etchell After seeing the overwhelming praise of this show flooding my Twitter feed, I was finally convinced to kick back, open Netflix and delve into Stranger Things. All I’ll say for now is “thank you Twitter” …

Plot summary from IMDB.com: ‘When a young boy disappears, his mother, a police chief, and his friends must confront terrifying forces in order to get him back’.

Stranger Things is captivating on so many levels, but the key to it’s brilliance lies in it’s strong story and its characters for whom you actually care about. The premise is riveting from episode one. Everything in the show is paced to entice you further into the mystery.

It’s one thing to have an intriguing story, but another to execute the material in such a compelling way. There is never a dull moment in Stranger Things.

The show is also made great by the impressive performances, not only from the big guns like Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers), but Stranger Things showcases fantastic performances from kids (Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin and Noah Schnapp) who often had to carry a lot of the action by themselves. For a series that is so dependent on kids, it’s hugely refreshing to see them pull it off so expertly. Bright futures lie ahead…

From Beetlejuice, to her darker role in Black Swan, Winona Ryder does a terrific job here as the emotionally distraught mother of Will. Another excellent performance is that of David Harbour (Jim Hopper). A character I backed throughout and one which viewers will likely identify with the most.

Stranger Things does an admirable job in making you care about all of the characters and their storylines. From the investigative and mysterious mission of the police to the adventures of the three kids and their unusual new friend “Eleven” to the coming-of-age storyline of Nancy (Natalie Dyer) and Jonathon (Charlie Heaton) amongst others, Stranger Things is consistently engrossing.

Towards the climax, the show threatens to do what some films and TV shows do by taking it too far, going too out of the ordinary or too weird and unrealistic, maybe as a result of running short of ideas. This is not the case with Stranger Things. So long as you can embrace the sci-fi, supernatural and fantasy elements of the show, you won’t be disappointed.

The way in which it’s made and how the narrative flows through the episodes makes Stranger Things feel more like an 8-hour long movie than a TV series. The same went for Netflix's 2015 Marvel series': Daredevil and Jessica Jones. And if series' such as these and now, Stranger Things are indicative of the way TV is heading, I’m very happy.

A second season of Stranger Things is no doubt on its way, however I hope continuing the story doesn’t spoil the magic and mystery of it all. I hope it keeps us guessing.

www.sonnyetchell.com 24

Hero Cheese of the Month - Norfolk Mardler goat’s cheese Fielding Cottage is an award winning small business based on a farm in the heart of Norfolk. Their aim is simple … to supply farmer’s markets, delicatessens and restaurants across East Anglia with tasty and healthy goats’ cheese, milk and meat.

As the grandson of a Norfolk farmer and an active member of Norfolk Young Farmers, Sam Steggles spent many years thinking of different ways to combine his love of working with animals with his farming knowledge and expertise to create a business unique to the area.

Having researched the benefits of products made from goat’s milk over cow’s milk, his wife and him decided to take the plunge and invest in a small herd of goats and the appropriate processing equipment. A couple of years ago they built a beautiful, purpose built ‘cheese room’ and now have a range of products of which they are very proud.

You can see all these products in our online shop, The Cheese Plate in Buntingford sells their goats cheese and if you are in Norfolk, please do come and visit the Goat Shed, their very own self-service farm shop, where you will find the very best local, seasonal produce alongside our own fantastic products.

Norfolk Mardler (to Mardle: from the Norfolk dialect meaning ‘to gossip or chat’) is this month’s chosen cheese. A waxed, eight week matured goat cheese which is deliciously creamy. Great for cooking with as this cheese melts particularly well.

A whole Norfolk Mardler weighs approximately 1.2kg.

A little about the goats that their delicious cheese is made from …

Goats are fascinating animals and they have learnt a huge amount about them in the last few years. For example, did you know that goats are extremely intelligent and contrary to popular belief are actually very picky eaters (so the linen line is safe as long as they have been fed recently!)?

Each goat really does have a personality of its own. In fact, meetings with numerous goat enthusiasts at various Farmers Markets, inspired them to offer their ‘Sponsor a Goat’.

Please note all their cheeses are made with vegetarian rennet and pasteurised milk. They also make other goats cheese so for more information just head to their website, www.fieldingcottage.co.uk

For more information, contact www.thecheeseplate.co.uk or email directly to toby@thecheeseplate.co.uk

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Corn It’s time for sweet corn! Delicious British grown corn can be found everywhere this time of year. A versatile and delicious food that you can have any which way. Corn on the cob with butter and pepper, Barbecued with paprika or dried out and turned into posh popcorn on the cob. How ever you like it it’s not only delicious but so good for you.

10 facts about corn. (We think you will be surprised) 1. Corn is a cereal crop that is part of the grass family.

2. An ear or cob of corn is actually part of the flower and an individual kernel is a seed.

3. On average an ear of corn has 800 kernels in 16 rows.

4. Corn will always have an even number of rows on each cob.

5. A bushel is a unit of measure for volumes of dry commodities such as shelled corn kernels. 1 Bushel of corn is equal to 8 gallons.

6. With the exception of Antarctica, corn is produced on every continent in the world.

7. There are over 3,500 different uses for corn products.

8. As well as being eaten by the cob, corn is also processed and used as a major component in many food items like cereals, peanut butter, potato chips, soups, marshmallows, ice cream, baby food, cooking oil, margarine, mayonnaise, salad dressing, and chewing gum.

9. Juices and soft drinks like Coca-Cola and Pepsi contain corn sweeteners. A bushel of corn can sweeten 400 cans of soft drink.

10. Corn and its by products are also found in many non-food items such as fireworks, rust preventatives, glue, paint, dyes, laundry detergent, soap, aspirin, antibiotics, paint, shoe polish, ink, cosmetics, the manufacturing of photographic film, and in the production of plastics.

11. Thousands of acres of corn are grown in this country to feed bio-digesters that produce electricity.

Every year we promote sweet corn and how important it is to get really fresh corn on the cob with leaves, rather than the ready skinned, 4 day old, plastic packed, supermarket offer.

According to ‘Organic Facts’, corn aids in reducing the risk of digestive issues such as constipation. It provides necessary minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron and copper, and helps alleviate anaemia with its B12 and folic acid content. It also helps you become beautiful! Corn is found in many cosmetic products and can aid in alleviating rashes or irritations of the skin.

www.bigbarn.co.uk

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Bangkok Lounge, Shefford – Review

Occupying an historical building dating back to the 1600s and sitting on the banks of the river Flit, Bangkok Lounge in Shefford prides itself on the originality of its genuine Thai menu. All dishes are prepared from fresh ingredients such as herbs, fruits and plants native to Thailand. Chefs at the restaurant further enhance these unique dishes by making them to each individual’s own personal taste.

The restaurant allows diners to enjoy its exquisite cuisine al fresco in the warmer months or in the ambience of its authentic Thai interior all year round.

The Sticks went to have dinner at this award winning restaurant on 27th June (the night England football team were playing Iceland in Euro 2016) but despite that, the restaurant was still reasonably busy.

The menu offers a vast range of dishes including 4 set menu options for varying numbers of people plus a full à la carte option from which we both chose our selections.

We shared the mixed starters – a selection of spring rolls, steamed tiger prawns with chilli sauce, chicken satay, fish cakes and prawn on toast - a great selection of varied tastes and textures that this restaurant has to offer, a wonderful introduction to the meal.

For my main course I ordered - Ped Markarm – stir- fried duck breast with home made tamarind sauce. The duck was just as I like it, pink in the middle and not over cooked or chewy and the tamarind sauce was both sweet and savoury as it should be.

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My guest had Beef Panang - a delicious Thai curry that's similar to the better-known red curry, but with a thicker, richer sauce – offering a really good flavour without being overpowering with the taste of coconut and kaffir lime coming through.

We also ordered a portion of – Pad Pak Choi – stir-fried pak choi with garlic, chilli in oyster sauce (a well balanced combination of cabbage, garlic and chilli) and Pad Mee (stir-fried egg noodles with carrots and beansprouts) and Kao Suey (steamed jasmine rice). These were all great accompaniments for the main course; the noodles and the rice grains were not overcooked and remained separate.

To round off the meal we had Banana Fritter – special Bangkok Lounge batter made in a traditional Thai style coated with desiccated coconut served with vanilla ice cream and glazed with honey (this was a delight and reminded me of my childhood when it was my favourite desert) and Choc Olé - a combination of dark and light chocolate and vanilla ice creams on a base of chocolate biscuit, with a rich chocolate sauce, and white and dark chocolate, a decedent chocolaty feast not one for the faint heated as it is very rich.

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Do not be afraid to ask the staff for their advice about the dishes as we found them knowledgeable and helpful which added to the experience.

The Bangkok Lounge offers something for everyone on any budget and always delivers excellent food and service.

7 day Lunch from £6.95 including Sundays Opening times 12 noon - 2:30 pm & 5:30 pm -11 pm Bookings are not always essential, however it’s worth calling in advance on 01462 338287 or 338292 or emailing info@bangkoklounge.com to check table availability.

The restaurant has its own large free customer car park.

Bangkok Lounge Shefford is at 2 Bedford Road, Shefford, Bedfordshire SG17 5DJ. The company also has a restaurant in Harpenden, Hertfordshire To find out more, visit bangkoklounge.com Bangkok Lounge won the St Albans District Chamber of Commerce Community Business Award in 2009 and was a runner up in 2010.

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with other enthusiasts. Booking Essential.

Phone: 0144285127.Ashridge Estate, Moneybury Hill, Berkhamsted HP4 1LX

Herts Listings Bringing On Back The 60s - Thu 1 Sep Europe’s leading 60’s revivalists, performing the Million Selling Hit’s that made the 1960’s, the most prolific decade in musical history.

Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Barkway Antiques & Vintage Fair - Sun 4 Sep This fair is in its fifth year and offers a wide range of stalls and items. From jewellery to Clarice Cliff, collectables to kitchenalia, we aim to offer something for everyone. Barkway Village Hall, Cambridge Road SG8 8BS

Fun Quiz in aid of Marie Curie, Ware (NB Date change) - Fri 2 Sep A Fun Quiz is just what it sounds like - Fun. It should not be taken too seriously. Allenburys Sports & Social Club, Priory Street, Ware SG12 0AW

“A Journey to Iceland” – Ann and Phil Farrer - Wed 7 Sep Illustrated talk organised

by Watford Local RSPB Group. Starting their journey in the Shetland Islands and the Faroes and then finishes with a look at the spectacular birds and scenery of Iceland.

Stanborough Centre, 609, St Albans Rd, Watford WD25 9JL

Jazz At The Movies - Sat 3 Sep Jazz At The Movies is a unique jazz group interpreting movie themes and soundtrack songs from classic films including The Pink Panther, Gilda, Kiss Me Deadly, From Russia With Love, The Servant, One Touch Of Venus, The Fabulous Baker Boys, and many more. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Hoddesdon Toy and Train Collectors’ Evening Toyfair - Wed 7 Sep The evening Hertfordshire Bi-Monthly event, to buy, sell, swap or obtain valuations on your old traditional toys including Cars, Buses and Trains, some lorries and farm related items, the opportunity to purchase many of the latest model releases. Robert Barclay Academy, Cock Lane, Hoddesdon EN11 8JY

The Comedy loft - Sat 3 Sep Rudi Lickwood, Gareth Richards, Mark Maier. The Comedy Loft, Watford WD17 1AW Charity Evening of Musical Favourites! - Sat 3 Sep Alex Ainley and the Nightingale Jazz Quartet. An evening of laughter and fabulous music featuring the music of Debussy, Ravel, Quincy Jones, George Gershwin, Billy May, Oscar Peterson. Edge Grove, Aldenham WD25 8NL

The Billy Joel Songbook performed by Elio Pace and his band - Thu 8 Sep Following on from his highly-acclaimed reunion concerts in the USA with Billy Joel’s original touring band, Elio Pace delivers this sensational tour celebrating the phenomenal music of Billy Joel. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

David Campbell, Margaret Archibald, Ian Scott - Clarinet, John Flinders - Piano - Sat 3 Sep Original works and arrangements for one, two and three clarinets and piano with works by Piazzola, Crusell, Bach, Glasser, Howells and Muczynski Admission price includes programme Tickets £12 Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

Jethro - 40 Years A Joker - Fri 9 Sep A memorable evening of hysterical nonsense, as we take a peek into the circus lurking deep within the mind of, probably the greatest, comic storyteller ever to grace the stage. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Penguin! Elephant! - Sat 3 Sep Waddle waddle waddle, stomp stomp stomp! Goblin’s new musical adventure for children ages 3+.

Penguin is a little bit selfish. Penguin loves fish fingers, but never shares them. The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX

Equestrian Table Top Sale - Fri 9 Sep Tired of trying to sell all your second hand / new equipment and being messed about by time wasters? Dont want the hassle that comes with posting items out? Douglas Tilbe House, Hall Grove, Welwyn Garden City AL7 4PH

Ashridge Estate - Fun Ride - Sun 4 Sep Enjoy a two to three hour way-marked ride for horse-owners through some of Ashridge’s most beautiful landscapes. Bring your horse or pony to Ashridge and enjoy sharing a ride

A Walk into the Past: Berkhamsted Place, Successor to the Castle - Fri 9 and Sat 10 Sep Berkhamsted Place was built by Sir Edward Carey, Keeper of the Queen’s Jewels (Elizabeth I), using material from the castle.

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collectibles! Come and find vintage fashions and accessories, gold and silver jewellery, furniture, art, china, books and more. The Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street. St Albans AL3 5BU

From the 18th century onwards it was frequently known as The Castle. The Bothy, Berkhamsted Place, Berkhamsted HP4 1HQ Maggini String Quartet - Fri 9 Sep Haydn: String Quartet in G minor, Op 20 No 3 E J Moeran: String Quartet in E flat Brahms: String Quartet in B flat, Op 67. Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

Theatre Organ Concert - Sat 10 Sep Andrew Nix and Tony Stace - The popular duo return for what will be a very entertaining evening.

St Albans Organ Theatre, St Albans AL1 5PE

Tring Chamber Music 2016 -’Music by Candlelight’ - Sat 10 and Sun 11 Sep Mozart Piano Concerto No.9 in E flat, K.271 Shostakovich String Quartet no 7 Op 108 Dvorak Piano Quintet A major, Op. 81 Howard Shelley piano, Paul Barritt violin, Catherine Yates violin, Louise Williams viola, Josephine Horder cello. Hastoe Village Hall Church Lane, Hastoe HP23 6LU

The Comedy Loft - Sat 10 Sep Sol Bernstein, Dan Evans, Michael Fabbri. The Comedy Loft, Watford WD17 1AW The Novotel Wedding Fair - Sun 11 Sep Join us for our first wedding fair at the Novotel, Stevenage heralding the launch of this wedding venue following a complete refurbishment. The wedding fair promises to be a grand affair perfect for their launch.

Novotel Stevenage, Knebworth Park, Stevenage SG1 2AX

All out swim Letchworth - Sat 10 Sep Go all out for people affected by cancer and sign up to Macmillan Cancer Support’s UK sponsored swim. Letchworth outdoor swimming pool SG6 4UF

Hertford Heritage Day at Hertford Castle Sun 11 Sep 12:00 - 16:00 Free Entry, Charity Donations Welcome As part of National Heritage Weekend, Hertford Castle will open its doors to the public free of charge. Visitors will be able to explore the basement, dungeons, Robing Room. Hertford Castle, Hertford SG14 1HR

Tring Cinema ’Hail Caesar’ - Sat 10 Sep Showing in aid of the Chilterns MS Centre.

Bar, popcorn and raffle available on the night.Nora Grace Hall, Faversham Close, Tring HP23 5BA Potato Shindig - Sat 10 to Sun 25 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 days programme including the new Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground.

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

Musical Sunday Afternoon - Sun 11 Sep Enjoy a musical Sunday Afternoon listening to this fascinating collection of unique selfplaying musical instruments. Includes tea and coffee in the interval. St Albans Organ Theatre, St Albans AL1 5PE Murphy Radio and Heritage Open Day at Mill Green Museum - Sun 11 Sep Join us as we take a look behind the scenes at Mill Green Museum. Tour the museum’s fascinating object stores with our knowledgeable staff and volunteers. Mill Green Mill & Museum AL9 5PD

Ashridge Heritage Open Day- Sat 10 and Sun 11 Sep A chance to climb the Bridgewater Monument for free, sit inside one of our tractors, have a go on the coconut shy and explore our log play area. No need to book. Dogs on leads welcome. Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT

The Watford Wedding Fair - Sun 11 Sep A great wedding fair conveniently located on the A41 close to North London and Watford.

The Watford Hilton wedding fair offers you the chance to meet a terrific collection of exhibitors serving the local area. The Watford Hilton Hotel WD25 8HA

Monstersaurus - Sat 10 Sep One day Monty found a book ’Inventions Very Rare’ Create yourself a monster friend but only if you dare! This brand new show from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is monstrously good! The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

The Little Hadham Antiques Fair - Sun 11 Sep An established fair known for its wide range of quality antiques at reasonable prices. Little Hadham Village Hall (signposted

The Grand Vintage Fair - Sat 10 Sep Full to the rafters with retro relics and kitsch

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give a short introductory talk about bats followed by the opportunity to track bats in the park using bat detectors. Meet at West Lodge, Hill End Lane AL4 0RA

off the A120 between Puckeridge & Bishop’s Stortford) SG11 2BP Autumn Evening Wedding Fair - Tue 13 Sep A great Wedding Fair for an autumn evening.

Why not visit this tranquil wedding venue, surrounded by beautiful walled gardens. The fair is open between 5:30pm - 9:30pm with fashion shows at 7pm & 8.30pm. The Conservatory Luton Hoo Walled Garden LU1 4LF

The Celtic Journey - Fri 16 Sep Creeds Cross, “The Celtic Journey” is an extraordinary live show of song and dance. A Tribute to the music of Ireland, documenting the worldwide journey of the Celtic influence across the globe. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Journey’s End - Wed 14 Sep March1918.

“The war to end all wars”. Anxiety builds in Captain Stanhope’s claustrophobic dugout as the threat of an imminent German attack looms over the battalion. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Bette Midler & Me - Fri 16 Sep Sue Kelvin stars in a tribute show to Bette Midler, covering the life and songs of the Divine Miss M from the perspective of a life-long fan.

Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Museum History Walk- Town Walk - Wed 14 Sep Take a walk through the town’s past and discover an unknown Stortford with Steve Mustil. Bishop’s Stortford Museum at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Tewin Horticultural, Arts, & Crafts Society Sat 17 Sep Entries for the show fall into the following categories, Flower Arranging, Flowers, Vegetables & Fruit, Arts & Crafts, Photography and Culinary. Tewin Memorial Hall Lower Green Tewin AL6 0JX

Berkhamsted Common Guided Walk - Thu 15 Sep Explore Berkhamsted Common’s medieval and pre-historic archaeology and learn more about the attempted enclosure of this common with our regional archaeologist Gary Marshall. Booking Essential. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear. Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT

Red Panda Day- Sat 17 Sep Red Panda fun and games all day long. In aid of the Red Panda Network. Normal admission applies.

Shepreth Wildlife Park, Shepreth SG8 6PZ Steve Bingham (electric violin) & Brenda Stewart (viola) - Sat 17 Sep Steve and Brenda present an unusual and varied range of music - both original and arranged - for string duo. Acoustic duos by Mozart, Wieniawski, and Bartók contrast with duo arrangements using electric violins and livelooping of music. Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

The Premier Wedding Fair at Knebworth House and Barns - Thu 15 Sep A unique wedding fair like no other! Enjoy the rare opportunity to view the inside of Knebworth House, the perfect location for couples looking to hold their wedding.Knebworth House and Barns, Knebworth SG1 2AX

The Comedy Loft - Sat 17 Sep Simon Bligh, John Fothergill, Funmbi Omstayo. The Comedy Loft, Watford WD17 1AW

Film: Where To Invade Next (Cert 15) - Thu 15 Sep Did you miss this great blockbuster at your usual cinema? Then come along to the cinema at Rhodes where you can get a drink and a slice of cake at the bar before settling down to watch the film on our screen.

Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Codebreakers - The Story of Enigma - Sat 17 Sep This new show by Dr Mark Baldwin is one of the Second World War’s most fascinating stories, that of the Allied Codebreakers, who deciphered a vast number of German secret messages and used the intelligence so gained to hasten Allied victory. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Battlefield Archaeology - Lecture - Thu 15 Sep Joint lecture between the Local History Museum and the Museum.Bishop’s Stortford Museum at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

West End Magic - Sun 18 Sep London’s premier magic show; West End Magic hits The Radlett Centre for the first time, with a family friendly show bringing you some of the

Highfield Park Bat Night - Fri 16 Sep Join us in Highfield Park where a local bat expert will

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tasters and much more. White Lion Square AL10 0JJ

most exciting names in magic in the UK. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Push it for the Peace 2016 - Sat 24 Sep Our epic, 5 mile muddy obstacle run is back again in Chiswell Green, featuring over 30 obstacles and a 5 mile cross country route. This is one challenge you won’t want to miss. Miriam Lane, Chiswell Green AL2 3NY

Jacob Heringman (lute) & John Potter (tenor) - Mon 19 Sep Secret Lute Songs: When we think of lute songs, we typically think of John Dowland and the Elizabethan/Jacobean Golden Age. For this recital, tenor John Potter and lutenist Jacob Heringman explore lesser known areas of the lute song repertoire. Benslow Music Trust, Ibberson Way, Hitchin SG4 9RB

The BIG Model Show 2016 - Sat 24 and Sun 25 Sep Free miniature train rides; Model locomotives & Stationary engines in steam; Model boats; Free ‘Have-a-go’ radio controlled model boats; Meccano displays.

Townsend Church of England School, High Oakes, St Albans AL3 6DR

Film: Florence Foster Jenkins (Cert PG) Wed 21 Sep Based on an astonishing true story, the hilarious and inspiring Florence Foster Jenkins tells the inspirational true story of the eponymous New York heiress who obsessively pursued her dream of becoming a great singer. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

The Comedy Loft - Sat 24 Sep Jonny Awsum, Darius Davis, Luke Toulson. The Comedy Loft, Watford WD17 1AW Pasadena Roof Orchestra - Sat 24 Sep Puttin’ on the Ritz! Since 1969 the Pasadena Roof Orchestra has been faithfully re-creating the glories of popular music from the 1920’s and 1930’s. The fun-packed show features timeless classics from the great American song book. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

The St Michaels Manor Hotel Wedding Fair Wed 21 Sep A Wedding Show for a Autumn Evening. Join us for a classic wedding fair at this magnificent Manor House in the heart of historic St Albans. Fishpool Street, St Albans AL3 4RY The Johnny Cash Roadshow - Thu 22 Sep Welcome back the Johnny Cash Roadshow, a show not to be missed by avid fans or the casual listener. Also the only show to be endorsed by the Cash family! This year prepare for a musical adventure with the biggest production to date. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Cue Tease Burlesque - Sat 24 Sep This September, Cue Tease Burlesque is back- but forget the romance, its all about the spectacle! Join us for a line up of Showgirls, Fire acts, LED Hoops and even mesmerising Mime! Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG Living with Luke - Mon 26 Sep Sweeney Entertainments and Phoenix Theatre Arts Written & Directed by Paul T Davies Adapted from the blogs by Danson Thunderbolt Danson Thunderbolt is no ordinary Dad, and his teenage son Luke is not so ordinary either.

The Spotlight (formerly known as Broxbourne Civic Hall). High Street. Hoddesdon EN11 8BE

Bay City Rollers; Rollermania 2016 - Thu 22 Sep Rollermania 2016 promises to be a unique voyage back to the 1970s, when Les and his Legendary band ruled the world’s pop charts and The Bay City Rollers’ music became the soundtrack for a generation of teenagers. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG Bucks Fizz - Fri 23 Sep Early in 1981, four complete strangers sat in the drawing room of a house in Fulham and were told: “you are now Bucks Fizz”. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Omid Djalili Live! - Tue 27 Sep Omid Djalili is an award-winning stand-up and an acclaimed actor. Intelligent, sometimes provocative, always entertaining, his standup is an energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

Healthfest - Sat 24 Sep Come along to the Health and Wellbeing Festival in Hatfield Town Centre. There will be free interactive stalls, fun and games, live music, sports

Daniel Cainer - 21st Century Jew - Wed 28 Sep Radlett favourite returns with a new collection of unique, award-winning stories in song. Smart, funny, and timely, Cainer’s

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deeply moving tales about his family and observational comedy are a joy. The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL

a-walk/bedford/ With every step taken, you will help change the lives of people affected by dementia. Embankment and Priory Country Park Bedford MK42 0BQ

ROFL @ Rhodes - Thu 29 Sep Comedy Nights are back! A chance to see the hottest upcoming comedians on the circuit. On stage tonight…Tiff Stevenson, Julian Deane and Dan Atkinson. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Arlesey Village Fete - Sat 3 Sep Free Entry, free Music and Entertainment, Dance demonstrations, bouncy castles, food /drink, stalls, etc. Arlesey Community Centre, High St, Arlesey SG15 6SN London Road Family Fun Day- Sat 3 Sep It will be another fun day for the whole family to enjoy especially as it is the Church’s 80th Anniversary! Lots of fun things to do and enjoy, including games, Tombola. London Road Methodist Church, corner of London Road/ Barford Avenue, Bedford MK42 0NT

The Showstoppers - Improvised Musical Thu 29 Sep 2016 Olivier Award Winners – Best Entertainment and Family Spontaneous musical comedy at its finest - direct from the West End and now heading to…! The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett WD7 8HL Forever in Blue Jeans - Fri 30 Sep Come and join one of the greatest party’s in town as Forever In Blue Jeans celebrates 20 happy and successful years “On The Road”. Bishop’s Stortford Theatre at Rhodes Arts Complex, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG

Tempsford Museum and Archive - Sun 4 Sep An Exhibition of recently acquired and donated photographs and other items of interest donated to the museum over the past year or more. Many photographs needing more detail adding. Come along and see if you can put some names to the faces. Stuart Memorial Hall, Tempsford SG19 2AW

Lytton Music Fest – Featuring Toni Lee - Fri 30 Sep Charity event in aid of Armed Forces, Veterans and Families Information Centre in Stevenage Featuring Toni Lee as The Voice of Karen Carpenter with support from Abba Lush tribute show and Ben Smith. Tickets £10.

Tele 01438 812312. Lytton Arms, Knebworth

Forest Family Fun Day- Sun 4 Sep £5 Parking – free entry. Join us to help raise money for the Forest of Marston Vale in our biggest fundraising event of the year! Children’s favourite Peppa Pig will be here! Forest Centre MK43 0PS

Beds Listings Wings & Wheels- Sun 4 Sep Visiting aircraft includes: Little and Large, The Blades (aerobatic display team), Hang Glider aerobatic display, Mew Gull replica (David Beale), DH60G (Mel Saggers), Turbulent, Stearman, Percival Parade, CAP 232 (Emily Todd) The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade SG18 9EP

Fort Fest Music Festival - Fri 2 to Sun 4 Sep Fort Fest is a new rock music festival. We have some brilliant bands including Young Guns, Lonely the Brave, InMe, The Xcerts, The Dirty Youth, Black Peaks, Arcane Roots, The Treatment, Grumble Bee. Scald End Farm, Mill Road, Thurleigh MK44 2DP

Summer of Sport Family Trails- Sun 4 Sep Celebrate a ‘Summer of Sport’ with us at Woburn Abbey and Gardens. We have delved into our collections and archives, and borrowed some items from the Duke and Duchess, to create a series of interesting displays. Woburn Abbey and Gardens MK17 9WA

The Dean Flower and Country Show - Sat 3 Sep 1pm - 5pm. Come and Enjoy a Truly Traditional Show, Something for Everyone!

Local Produce and Exhibits, Classic Cars, Vintage Vehicles, Donkeys, Ponies, Owls, Children’s Entertainers, Crafts, Plants, Tombola, Raffle and Much More. The Dalton Village Hall, Kimbolton Road, Upper Dean PE28 0LT

Weaving Narratives: textiles inspired by the archives - Thu 8 to Sat 10 Sep A free art exhibition hosted by Bedfordshire Archives to showcase the work of local textile artists, who have been using a wide range of documents from the archives as inspiration

Alzheimer’s Society Bedford Memory Walk Sat 3 Sep Join us for Bedford Memory Walk in Embankment and Priory County Park You can register here: www.memorywalk.org.uk/find-

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for their textile pieces. Borough Cauldwell Street, Bedford MK42 9AP

Hall,

Virgin, Maulden. St Mary’s Church, Church Rd, Maulden MK45 2AU

Heritage Open Day - Thu 8 Sep The Swiss Garden and The House are proud to be a part of this year’s Heritage Open Days, England’s biggest heritage festival involving 40,000 volunteers. The House, Shuttleworth SG18 9EA

Bedfordshire Walking Festival - Tue 13 Sep In conjunction with the Bedfordshire Walking Festival, Shuttleworth are delighted to offer a special information walk and tour of the Shuttleworth estate and Old Warden village.

Shuttleworth SG18 9EP

Flitton & Greenfield Gala Day - Sat 10 Sep The 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 “Team GB Rio”. Flitton & Greenfield Village Hall and Recreation Ground, Greenfield Road, Flitton MK45 5DR

Bedfordshire Steam & Country Fair 2016 Fri 16 to Sun 18 Sep Includes Steam Engines, Tractors & Heavy Horses, Working Crafts, Steam Ploughing, Trade & Market Stalls, Sheepdog working & Falconry, Vintage Vehicles, Old Time Fairground.

The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade SG18 9EP

Riseley Show & Fayre - Sat 10 Sep A traditional Village Show .Competition Classes,incl. Fruit,Veg. Flowers,Arts& Crafts Photography(up to 600 entries).The Fayre on the Playing Field this year has an Apple Day theme. Many traditional English Crafts. Side Shows. Cake, Plant, Preserves. Riseley Village Hall & Playing Field, High Street, Riseley

Weaving Narratives: textiles inspired by the archives - Fri 16 to Sun 18 Sep A free art exhibition to showcase the work of local textile artists, who have been using a wide range of documents from Bedfordshire Archives as inspiration for their textile pieces. Luton Central Library, St. Georges Square, Luton LU1 2NG

Flying Teddies - Sun 11 Sep Shillington’s Flying Teddies are coming again! Bring your Teddies for a flight from the church tower or an exciting zoom down the zip wire and get your flight certificate! Refreshments in the church. Great fun for all the family. All Saints’ Church, Shillington SG5 3LH

Sutton Annual Flower Festival and Art Exhibition - Sat 17 and Sun 18 Sep All Saints Church, Church Road, Sutton, Sandy SG19 2NB Flower Festival "90 Glorious Years" - St Mary’s Church, Clophill - Sat 17 and Sun 18 Sep Clophill & District Flower Club are staging a Flower Festival to celebrate HM Queen Elizabeth II’s life. It will celebrate 90 years of Royal times. St Mary’s Church, Clophill MK45 4BE

Warden Abbey Vineyard Open Day & Wine Sale - Sun 11 Sep Bedfordshire’s oldest vineyard is 30 years old this year! This is a rare opportunity to visit both the vineyard and the historic Warden Abbey building which is being thrown open by the Landmark Trust.

Warden Abbey Vineyard, off Bedford Road, Old Warden SG18 9LS

Capability Brown Guided Walks - Sun 18 Sep Guided walks of the beautiful Ampthill Great Park, taking in all of the Capability Brown features in the Park, as part of a series of events being held in Ampthill to celebrate Capability Browns tercentenary. West Car Park, Ampthill Great Park, Woburn Road, Ampthill MK45 2HX

Willington Dovecote and Stables - Sun 11 Sep Come and have some fun at the spectacular Tudor Dovecote and have a look at our archives. Featuring a display by Willington Local History Group and Bedford National Trust Association Tudor fashions for children to try on and games. Willington Dovecote and Stables, Willington

Dunstable Downs and the Whipsnade Estate - Eid-al-Adha Festival - Sun 18 Sep A fun filled day for people of all ages, with a host of activities to enjoy. Join us for the second Eid festival 2015 at Dunstable Downs, everyone is welcome. Enjoy the Bedfordshire countryside and activities such as nature trails, face painting. Dunstable Downs and

Ailesbury Mausoleum & Crypt- Sun 11 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 Mausoleum is in the churchyard of St Mary the

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the Whipsnade Estate, Whipsnade LU6 2GY

Dunstable

Road,

Half Moon Lane, Pepperstock, Slip End, Luton LU1 4LL

Bucks Listings Tea & Antiques for Breast Cancer Care - Fri 23 Sep Come and have tea & cake and browse in our showroom All donations for cake and 10% of showroom sales will go to Breast Cancer Care. Tythe Farm, 1 Hampshire Buildings, School Lane, Colmworth. Bedford MK44 2JZ

Dahl-ightful dream catchers - Thu 1 Sep For 5+ years: hear how the BFG catches dreams and then make your own dream catcher net, decorating it so that you catch only the really phizz-whizzing dreams! 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Aeromodellers Festival of Flight - Sat 24 and Sun 25 Sep Festival of Flight annual Aeromodelling Event with competitions and trade stands. All types of models are welcome, with general sports flying in all 3 disciplines – RC/CL/F. The Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade SG18 9EP

Flushbunkled giant party! - Fri 2 Sep For 4+ years: what whoopsy-splunking news – the giants have been caught! Join us for some classic party games to celebrate. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL Waddesdon Manor - Behind the Scenes Tour - Fri 2 Sep Learn about life at Waddesdon, how it was used in the 19th century and how it was run. Booking Essential. Phone: 01296 653226. Assistance Dogs only are welcome.

Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, near Aylesbury HP18 0JH

Music at St Mary’s - Mike Niel, Poet Laureate of Milton Keynes - Sat 24 Sep Our next concert is a little out of the ordinary. It will be performed by Mark Niel, a full time poet and the official Poet Laureate of Milton Keynes. St Mary’s Church, Eaton Bray LU6 2DP

Oh! Carol - Sat 3 Sep The Musical Story of Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield From their humble beginnings in Brooklyn to the dizzying heights of their success in the 50’s & 60’s the song writing genius of Neil Sedaka and ‘Howie’ Howard Greenfield. The Elgiva, St Mary’s Way, Chesham HP5 1HR

Botanical Demonstration by Jill Winch Wed 28 Sep We are delighted that Botanical Artist Jill Winch has agreed to give us a demonstration of her work. She paints plants, fruits and vegetables in watercolour and colour pencil. Jill teaches botanical painting and exhibits her work. West Room, Harlington Parish Hall, Church Road, Harlington, Dunstable LU5 6LE

Craft and Vintage fair - Sat 3 Sep Featuring a lovely mix of craft and vintage stalls; something for everyone and every pocket.

There is so much to see! The Olney Centre, High Street, Olney MK46 4EF

Swing’s The Thing Big Band ’Basie, Bublé & Winehouse’ - Thu 29 Sep Michael Bublé and Amy Winehouse have both publicly acknowledged the influence that Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra had on their musical development. The Place Bedford, Bradgate Rd, Bedford MK40 3DE

Chilli Festival 2016 - Sat 3 and Sun 4 Sep Celebrating its 10th year this September, Waddesdon’s annual Chilli Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

With more than 50 handpicked exhibitors, all passionate about chilli. Waddesdon Manor HP18 0JH

Pre-harvest tour & tasting at Warden Abbey Vineyard - Fri 30 Sep Nestled between the picturesque villages of Old Warden and Cardington, vines were first planted on this beautiful Bedfordshire field in medieval times by monks at the Cistercian Abbey of Warden.

Warden Abbey Vineyard, off Bedford Road, Old Warden SG18 9LS

15th Annual Slapton Village Fete - Sat 3 Sep Which includes stalls, games, music, beer, food, happy people, and (hopefully) good weather. Buy a £1 raffle ticket while you’re there; win a helicopter ride for 2 over London, or £200 cash. Recreation Grounds, Slapton LU7 9DB

Harpers Craft Fair - Fri 30 Sep to Sun 2 Oct Stalls of local and national crafts of: Pottery, Woodwork, Fashion, Cards, Home Wares, Jewellery, Needle Crafts, Toys, Gifts & more.

Pre-booked coaches & groups welcome - free admission. Disabled facilities. Harpers Food,

Once Upon A Time - Sun 4 Sep Quantum Theatre are back with another tale from Beatrix Potter. Meet Beatrix Potter as she tells us her very first tale of Peter Rabbit, who knows only too well that he is not to go

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into Mr McGregor’s Theatre MK14 6BN

garden.

Explore the gardens and grounds and discover how the National Trust cares for this beautiful place. Claydon, Middle Claydon, near Buckingham MK18 2EY

Stantonbury

Medieval Fun Day - Sun 4 Sep Hear the Museum echo with Medieval drums and fanfares as The Lion Rampant presents a day full of Medieval fun. Join their dances, accompanied by minstrels and singers, be entertained by their merry band of bowmen.

Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe HP13 6PX

Heritage Open Days - Sat 10 Sep Buckingham Old Gaol will be hosting a Heritage Open Day with a Mini Fete in the covered exercise yard.

Stalls, games and refreshments. Buckingham Old Gaol, Market Hill, Buckingham MK18 1JX MK Handmade & Vintage Weekend Extravaganza - Sat 10 and Sun 11 Sep Milton Keynes has one of the biggest and best handmade and vintage events in the country.

In front of John Lewis, Middleton Hall, the centre:mk, Central Milton Keynes Shopping Centre, MK9 3ES

Chiddlers’ hour: The BFG - Tue 6 Sep For 0 to 3 years: 30 minutes of songs, storytelling and adventure and 30 minutes of free play and crafts based on Roald Dahl’s The BFG. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL Ruby’s Vintage & Retro Fair - Sat 10 Sep The beautiful Old Town Hall will be full to the brim with vintage loveliness - 30 plus stalls of vintage clothing and accessories, homewares, linens, kitchenalia, upcycled and vintage furniture, retro gifts and so much more. The Old Town Hall, Queen Victoria Road, High Wycombe HP11 2XE

Wine Lovers’ Weekend - An evening of Rothschild classics from Bordeaux - Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep To conclude the three crucial stages of a vineyard’s calendar year we are celebrating "Vendange", the Harvest of Grapes, with a weekend of wonderful events showcasing Rothschild classic Bordeaux wines. Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury HP18 0JH

Chocolate decorating - Sat 10 Sep For 4+ years: join Kate, Head Chef at Café Twit, to decorate a chocolate bar with sweets and treats! 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Monstersaurus - Sun 11 Sep One day Monty found a book ’Inventions Very Rare’ Create yourself a monster friend but only if you dare! This brand new show from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is monsterously good! Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Gerrards Cross Book Fair - Sat 10 Sep A second hand book fair offering all sorts of books for sale from cheap paperbacks and hardbacks to antiquarian and rare books. The Memorial Centre East Common Gerrards Cross SL9 7AD

Tudor Fayre - Sun 11 Sep A multitude of free entertainment, games, crafts and activities are available for all the family Visit our silk and embroidery expert to learn about Tudor clothes. Bucks County Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP

Turn End - ’The Modern Garden’ and the modern garden - Sat 10 Sep Join Turn End Trust for an afternoon in the company of Richard Bisgrove, distinguished author and horticulturist, who will be giving a talk on ‘The Modern Garden’ and the modern garden.

Turn End, Haddenham, Aylesbury HP17 8BG

Chiddlers’ hour: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Tue 13 Sep For 0 to 3 years: 30 minutes of songs, storytelling and adventure and 30 minutes of free play and crafts based on Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

A Tour of The Secret Garden - Sat 10 Sep Alongside the Grand Union Canal in the railway town of Wolverton, Milton Keynes, members of the local community have transformed a piece of derelict land into a new greenspace for the enjoyment of all The Secret Garden. Off Stratford Road, Wolverton, Milton Keynes MK13 0DY

Evening of Mediumship with Nikki Kitt - Fri 16 Sep Psychic medium Nikki Kitt is a Spiritualist Medium who is currently touring the UK with her successful Psychic / Mediumship Evenings. As a medium Nikki Kitt aims to provide evidence of life after life by giving messages to people in the audience.

Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Claydon - Sat 10 Sep Enjoy free entry to Claydon House and the Verney family private gardens as part of Heritage Open Day.

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The Buckinghamshire Steampunk Weekend - Sat 17 and Sun 18 Sep Live Steampunk Entertainment and specialist traders alongside steam engines, rides, miniature railways, Museum, locomotives, trucks, rolling stock, carriages, restored station, royal mail travelling sorting office, and a Visitor Centre. Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Station Road, Quainton, nr Aylesbury

Working Heavy Horses - Sat 24 and Sun 25 Sep See working heavy horses in action around the Museum site Demonstrations of ploughing, harrowing and other cultivation in the Museum’s arable fields Unique opportunity to see a horse gin (engine) in action in the historic Chilterns farm. Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB

Morgan & West Parlour Tricks - Sat 17 Sep Electric Talent Time travelling magic duo Morgan and West present an incredible show chock full of jaw-dropping, brain-bursting, gasp-eliciting feats of magic. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Tudor Times - Sat 24 and Sun 25 Sep Discover what it was like to live in Tudor times and gather with the Militia to oppose the Armada in this family friendly living history event. Meet costumed re-enactors as they bring the Museum’s historic buildings to life. Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB

Hughenden - 1940’s Weekend - Sat 17 and Sun 18 Sep Spend the weekend in War Time Britain and enjoy a full two day programme of events. Come along to see what Hughenden was like during the War and uncover the house and its secret history.

Hughenden, High Wycombe HP14 4LA

Wondercrump Wildlife - Sun 25 Sep For all ages: come and get crafty with the Wildlife Trust, and find out about the living landscapes around Buckinghamshire, the inspiration for many of Roald Dahl’s books. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Museum of the Unexpected, Roald Dahl Day celebrations - Sat 17 Sep Celebrate Roald Dahl’s 100th birthday in the heart of Roald Dahl country. Smell your way around the Museum on our SCENTenary Trail, write your own lines for our Big Birthday Poem, meet Storyteller in Residence Sandra Agard. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Chiddlers’ hour: Esio Trot - Tue 27 Sep For 0 to 3 years: 30 minutes of songs, storytelling and adventure and 30 minutes of free play and crafts based on Roald Dahl’s Esio Trot. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL Detox - Wed 28 Sep Pagrav Dance Company Detox intends to explore physical, mental and spiritual detoxification - how through a process of cleansing we can begin to deconstruct notions of excess and consumption and finally discover our true inner potential. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN

Ultra White Collar Boxing - Sun 18 Sep This is a unique opportunity for people with no boxing background to experience the wonderful world of boxing, in a safe and enjoyable environment. UWCB run events in over 90 cities across the UK. Stantonbury Leisure Centre MK14 6BN Chiddlers’ hour: The Enormous Crocodile and The Twits - Tue 20 Sep For 0 to 3 years: 30 minutes of songs, storytelling and adventure and 30 minutes of free play and crafts based on Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile and The Twits. 81 - 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL

Aylesbury Comedy Night - Fri 30 Sep Join Scannappeal, for our first Comedy Night to help raise vital funds for the See Eye Appeal .

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury HP20 1UG T Rextasy - 40th Anniversary Tour of I Love to Boogie - Fri 30 Sep Marc Bolan, with his band T.Rex, was one of the most flamboyant and charismatic stars of the original glam rock era. With Bolan’s special ingredient of Rock-a-Boogie songs throughout the 1970s including ’Telegram. The Elgiva Theatre, St. Mary’s Way, Chesham HP5 1HR

Spooky Sprint Waddesdon Manor - Sat 24 Sep We dare you to run in the Spooky Sprint – a spine-tingling different race! A run in the dark with only a head torch to light your way, which will test your nerve as well as your fitness. It’s so good, it’s scary. Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury HP18 0JH

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