harpenden NOW December 16

harpenden

NOW

December 2016

NOW for a Panto

NOW for Some Christmas Shopping

NOW Where’s Santa Get Your Skates On

NOW for some Music NOW at the Cathedral Events Out of Town

What’s on and lots more

read ‘the NOW magazines’ monthly promoting local businesses, organisations and events since 2006

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NOW for Some Christmas Shopping 4 gifts & presents galore

Welcome to December

NOW Where’s Santa 14 ho, ho, ho

NOW for a Panto 18 behind you!

Its nearly Christmas and there's so much ‘Deliciousandreal’ Festive Food 22 going on from Santa’s to Skating, Music to festive family food Mummers and Pampering to Pantos, there's definitely something for everyone.

NOW it’s Christmas 24 all things festive We can’t believe another 12 months have gone by, and that this year we’ve celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the NOW Do Something for Charity 26 thinking of others magazines, it seems only yesterday that the two of us excitedly gave up our ‘proper jobs’ to set up our own business.

Events Out of Town 28 something new to do We’d like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and don't forget while you’re munching on that mince pie Get Your Skates On 30 or enjoying a glass of fizz, have a flick through the magazine to ice skating for everyone see if any of our local businesses can help you with NOW at the Cathedral 32 those jobs around the house that you carols, services & more keep meaning to do.

NOW for some Music 34 And don't forget you can always read classical, concerts & carols the magazines every month on-line.

NOW at the Local Theatres 40 Just email music, comedy & drama magazines.com Jane & Wendy wendy@theNOW www.theNOWmagazines.com in What’s on in December 42 to be the s 07983 588313 & January 44 January edition ec D h 8t e: Index of Businesses 46 lin d Dea accountants to windows & doors

Christmas Trees & Handmade Wreaths Logs, Kindling, Gas & Coal

To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW for Some Christmas Shopping St Albans Christmas Market

until 18th Dec Come and browse up to 60 stalls in and around the beautiful Vintry Garden of St Albans Cathedral.

Entertainers, twinkly lights and plenty of Christmas cheer will add to the festive atmosphere with a fantastic selection of traders bringing you the best of British-made and international wares. The Market will be different every day, some stallholders will always there, others for just a few days.

Updates on Facebook and Twitter #VintryVillage New for 2016 - The Meraki Christmas Mini-Festival www.merakifestival.com www.stalbanschristmasmarket.com

Christmas at the Barn Market Days

St Albans Traditional Street Market Wednesdays and Saturdays in St Peter's Street and daily from 16th - 24th December St Albans Farmers Market 11th Dec 8am - 2pm Harpenden Farmers Market 18th Dec 10am - 2pm

The Grand Vintage Fair

10th Dec 10am - 4pm The Jubilee Centre, St Albans AL3 5BU Vintage everything, from the sublime to the ridiculous, all one offs, from fashion and accessories to 50’s and 60’s kitsch, antiques and more.

Cards for Good Causes

The UK’s largest multi-charity Christmas card organisation will be selling cards from over 40 organisations. until 16th Dec St Albans Cathedral AL1 1BY Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat 10am - 3.30pm / Sun 1pm - 4.45pm until 17th Dec United Reformed Church, Vaughan Road, Harpenden Mon - Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm / Sat 9.30am - 3.30pm www.cardsforcharity.co.uk

Late Night Shopping

1st, 8th & 15th Dec 3pm - 8pm Hatfield House The shops in the Stable Yard will be open with special Christmas offers as well as festive fun and entertainment. Mince pies and mulled wine will be available in the restaurant. www.hatfield-house.co.uk

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until 18th Dec Thurs - Sun 10am - 5pm The Barn is a treasure trove of wonderful gifts, paintings, jewellery and more. Opening twice a year, at Easter and Christmas, it’s a friendly and relaxed place to shop; treating yourself or shopping for gifts.

Delaport, Lamer Lane, Wheathampstead AL4 8RQ www.sarahcollinsbarn.com

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www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

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HAIRDRESSING IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME Sometimes it's just easier to let me come to you!

Experienced in cutting and colouring, hairdresser, Emma Boucher, has relocated to Harpenden and is now happy to offer appointments in and around the area.

For further information or bookings please don’t hesitate to call on 07539 228331 emmaboucher99@hotmail.com

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01727 298 www.theNOWmagazines.com

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Project Management, Renovations and Refurbishments Prompt and reliable service Recent works on Facebook: ACR.Build Testimonials and references from our happy clients on our website Please call Andy today to discuss your requirements 07971 544886 01582 203520

www.acrbuild.co.uk www.acrelectricalltd.co.uk

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To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW Where’s Santa St Albans Round Table Christmas Float Enjoy this long standing tradition as Santa visits many areas of St Albans. Check when he’s in your area by visiting www.stalbansroundtable.org.uk/christmas-float Harpenden Round Table Santa Float Keep an eye (or an ear) out for Santa’s charity float as it passes through Harpenden, to check when he’s in your road please visit www harpenden.roundtable.co.uk The Olde Watermill Christmas Grotto Barton-Le-Clay, Beds, MK45 Fridays & weekends until 18th Dec Daily 19th - 24th Dec Join the elves in some Christmas activities, have a singalong with Rudolph, and a story with Santa and Mrs Santa where every child will receive a gift, please book www.oldewatermill.co.uk Notcutts Garden Centre St Albans AL4 0HN Weekends 20th Nov - 24th Dec Visit Santa in his winter wonderland and receive a special gift. Tea or breakfast with Santa is also available. Please book www.notcutts.co.uk Hatfield House Santa Experience 24th - 27th Nov 1st - 4th, 8th - 11th & 15th - 18th Dec Visit Santa in his festive themed tavern. £9 www.hatfield-house.co.uk Buckinghamshire Railway Centre Aylesbury HP22 4BY Festive Day out with Thomas 26th & 27th Nov / 3rd, 4th, 10th & 11th Dec Ride on Santa's steam train pulled by Thomas the Tank engine.

Santa' Specials 17th & 18th Dec Ride on a steam train where you’ll be joined by Santa, there’ll also be a live show and craft activities. www.bucksrailcentre.org Santa Special Leighton Buzzard Railway Pages Park Station, LU7 4TN

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Wednesdays & weekends 30th Nov - 21st Dec & 22nd & 23rd Dec Ride on a narrow gauge steam train and meet Santa, please book. www.buzzrail.co.uk Santa’s Grotto and Christmas Fly In The Shuttleworth Collection SG18 9EP 3rd Dec 11am See Santa arrive in his plane to a welcome of Christmas songs from a local children’s choir.

Visit him in his Grotto and enjoy some fun and festive activities.

Santa visits: 11.30am - 3.50pm.

Booking includes access to the Garden for two adults per child and a gift. www.shuttleworth.org Chiltern Open Air Museum HP8 4AB 3rd & 4th Dec Meet Santa in his Grotto, receive a gift and enjoy a traditional Christmas experience with songs, music, storytelling and more. www.coam.org.uk Bletchley Park Milton Keynes MK3 6EB 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th & 17th - 23rd Dec Meet Santa in his grotto in the mansion’s ballroom.

There’ll be craft activities, festive music and films to keep you busy while you wait, and each child will receive a present. www.bletchleypark.org.uk Sunday Lunch with Santa Knebworth House 4th, 11th & 18th Dec 12 noon - 3.30pm Enjoy a 2-course festive lunch with a gift for children from Santa, please book.

Adult £25, child £12 www.knebworthhouse.com Stockwood Discovery Centre 10th - 23rd Dec 10am - 4pm All the sights and sounds of a wonderful Christmas adventure, with craft activities, a bubble disco, festive magic show and Christmas tales, then visit Santa and his elves.

Adult £1, child £6, Santa visit extra £4 01582 878100 www.lutonculture.com

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01582 864138 / 01727 453019 www.theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW for a Panto Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs 8th Dec - 8th Jan The Alban Arena A fun-packed, family pantomime starring Rita Simons from EastEnders, Bob Golding as the hilarious Dame and Alban Arena favourite Ian Kirkby. www.alban-arena.co.uk

Dick Whittington 8th Dec - 15th Jan

Milton Keynes Theatre MK9 3NZ Samantha Womack, Eastenders’ feisty Ronnie Mitchell, will be swarming the streets of London with her rodent friends as the evil Queen Rat, while I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! winner Stacey Solomon will be picking up her magic wand as Fairy Bowbells. www.atgtickets.com/venues/milton-keynes-theatre

Cinderella 10th - 22nd Dec

Harpenden Public Halls Luke Roberts from CITV stars as Buttons with comedian and impressionist Jess Robinson from CBBCs Horrible Histories spreading her magic as the Fairy Godmother, Steve Leeds from Go!Go!Go! on Nick Jr plays Prince Charming and last years X Factor’s singer Honey Fine is Cinderella. Book before midnight strikes! 01582 767525 www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

Jack and the Beanstalk 10th Dec - 3rd Jan

The Radlett Centre WD7 8HL With dazzling costumes and scenery, fabulous live music, lots of laughs and a host of colourful characters - this Pantomime has everything - magic beans, a giant, a brave hero, a beautiful princess and loads of audience participation. Why not join in the fun, songs and laughter. www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Dick Whittington 17th Dec - 4th Jan

Hawthorne Theatre Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX The streets of London are paved with gold, or at least that’s what Dick Whittington thinks, why not go along and find out for yourselves! 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

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01923 224472

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‘Deliciousandreal’ Festive Food Bejewelled Salad With the jewel like colours of the pomegranate and figs, this salad is perfect for any festive table.

It’s quick and easy to prepare and tastes amazing.

If you don’t like (or can’t source) figs, peaches and nectarines work just as well; as do other leaves, such as pea shoots and watercress or baby spinach.

Serves 4 90g wild rocket 4 ripe figs cut into wedges 80g Parma ham (or similar) 50g pecorino shavings (or similar) 2 tbsp of snipped chives 60g pomegranate seeds 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp olive oil Arrange the rocket and figs on a platter.

Tear over the Parma ham.

Add the pecorino, chives and pomegranate seeds. Whisk together the pomegranate molasses, lemon juice and olive oil and drizzle over the salad. Finish off with some freshly ground pepper.

Tear and Share Christmas Tree This simple Christmas recipe looks and tastes great, and is a fantastic addition to any Festive table.

2 sheets of puff pastry (can use ready made) Jar of pesto Grated parmesan 1 egg, beaten Place one sheet of pastry on a lined baking tray.

Spread a layer of pesto over the pastry.

Sprinkle with a thin layer of parmesan.

Lay the second sheet of pastry on top and cut out a simple Christmas tree shape using as much of the pastry as you can.

Cut strips along the sides of your tree, and twist them to make the branches.

Beat the egg in a bowl and brush onto the pastry.

Bake at 180°C for 18-20 minutes.

For more tasty family friendly recipes follow local mum Claire Gillies Twitter: @deliciousreal16 Instagram: @deliciousandreal Facebook: @deliciousandreal

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W , k NO rties Boostmas Peaw Year

hri &N for C g Day n i Box

Fully Licenced and Air Conditioned Established 2001

Good Food & Good Service

Come & enjoy Authentic Indian & Bangladeshi Cuisine cooked daily by our Experienced Chef with Fresh Meat, Chicken & Vegetables from Local Suppliers

Special Gourmet Nights £10.95 Tuesdays & Wednesdays

FREE HOME DELIVERY on orders over £10 within 4 mile radius

10% Discount

on all collected orders over £10 The Council Hygienist has scored this restaurant very highly

2 Grove Road, Southdown, Harpenden AL5 1PX

01582 467676 / 469191 Easy Parking Available

Happy Christmas to all our Customers before

Call Today to have your Oven, Hob, Extractor or Aga Professionally Cleaned

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call Keith Graham

01923 352726 07903 443375 www.ovenwizards.com

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Christmas Wreath Workshops The Snow Centre

Hemel Hempstead If you’re looking to have some festive fun, then this is the place, great for kids, families and adults alike.

Ride the Ringo Slide weekends until 18th Dec This fun-filled activity will see you spinning, slipping and sliding on a real snow slide.

Adults & children over 4 years £8.50 Festive Sledging - Christmas Eve 1.30pm - 5.30pm - Boxing Day 10am - 5.30pm - New Years Eve 1.30pm - 5.30pm - New Years Day 10am - 5.30pm Whizz, spin and slide down the slope on a sledge. Can you beat your friends?

Adults & children £8.50 Snow Garden weekends until 1st Jan Let your little one’s take their first steps on snow, as they whizz and spin down the mini snow slide, for ages 2 - 4 years £4.50 www.thesnowcentre.com

St George and the Dragon

Boxing Day The play performed by St Albans Mummers at 5 different locations in St Albans City Centre is a none-too-serious drama of life, death and resurrection with several battles, some cures unknown to medical science, poetry of less-thanShakespeare quality and some very bad jokes.

The play also features the Lord of Misrule, the Queen of Egypt, a Giant, a Turkish Knight, a Doctor and old Father Christmas taking a day off after his seasonal labours.

Come along and support this traditional Boxing Day custom which started in 1967 when a group of friends wanted to revive the ancient custom of the mummers play. Today’s play is the same as it was then but every performance is different as the players include topical material and interact with the audiences.

The Town Hall 11.30am The White Hart Hotel 12.15pm West End, St Albans Cathedral 1pm The Fighting Cocks 1.45pm The Clock Tower 2.30pm www.stalbansmummers.org.uk

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Redbourn Living Advent Calendar

This Advent, why not vist Redbourn Village Living Advent Calendar, and open a real door to find a surprise behind it? But first visit the website and click on the doors to find out where to go each day. Get there a few minutes early so you don’t miss the start and make sure you dress for the weather as some days the surprise may be outside!

There will be a performance behind each door starting at 6.15pm, lasting 15 minutes, all are suitable for children.

Each door will have flags outside so you know you’re in the right place. Most venues have limited parking, so it’s best to walk if you can.

To find out what it’s all about visit the website to download and print a village map with numbered locations for each day. www.redbournadventcalendar.weebly.com

7th Dec 7pm - 9pm 12th Dec 10am - 12 noon Grove House, St Albans AL Create a beautiful Christmas garland and raise vital funds Grove House nursing servic All materials will be provided and pliers and arrive 15 min £25 includes refreshments Please book on 01727 7310 community@renniegrove.or

Trestle Arts Base, St Albans Skewbald Theatre magically Morpurgo’s beautifully atmo adventure, snow and drago performers change from sto puppeteers bringing to life th discovers something extrao sleeping in her woodshed! W puppets and plenty of audie Age 3+ and everyone who l Adult £10, concs £8 01727 8

Lego at Christma

Bricktraders, an independen and trade LEGO® bricks, se Everyone is welcome with s from the youngest and most serious collectors.

Christmas Fair 3rd Dec 1 Alban City School, St Alban Pop-Up Shop 12th -18th D 10am - 5pm (Sun 10 - 12 no 8 Leyton Road, Harpenden

Santa Spectacular

Christmas Wreath Workshops

7th Dec 7pm - 9pm 12th Dec 10am - 12 noon Grove House, St Albans AL3 5QX Create a beautiful Christmas garland and raise vital funds for Grove House nursing service.

All materials will be provided, please bring secateurs and pliers and arrive 15 mins early to set up. £25 includes refreshments Please book on 01727 731010 or community@renniegrove.org

23rd Nov - 24th Dec Willows Activity Farm, St Albans AL4 0PF Come and enjoy a Santatastic programme of activities, visit Santa’s Grotto with sparkling scenes inspired by fairy tales, winter wonderland and traditional Christmas characters. Santa will give each child a golden key to his Toy Shop where they can choose a gift. There is also the new Elf School, Nativity Story with animals, festive shows and seasonal Snowball Shootout, Festive Wood Ride, Reindeer Hunt with free box of magic reindeer dust plus Festive Funfair Rides www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Christmas Tree Dressing Day Mimi and the Mountain Dragon

9th Dec 10.30am & 1.30pm 10th Dec 2.30pm & 4.30pm Trestle Arts Base, St Albans AL4 0JQ Skewbald Theatre magically brings to life Michael Morpurgo’s beautifully atmospheric tale packed full of adventure, snow and dragons. Two multi-skilled performers change from storytellers to village folk to puppeteers bringing to life the story of Mimi, a girl who discovers something extraordinary, a baby dragon sleeping in her woodshed! With lively songs, magical puppets and plenty of audience interaction.

Age 3+ and everyone who loves stories.

Adult £10, concs £8 01727 850950 www.trestle.org.uk

Lego at Christmas

Bricktraders, an independent business who buy, sell and trade LEGO® bricks, sets and mini figures.

Everyone is welcome with something for every budget from the youngest and most casual builders to the serious collectors.

Christmas Fair 3rd Dec 12 noon - 2.30pm Alban City School, St Albans AL1 3RR Pop-Up Shop 12th -18th Dec 10am - 5pm (Sun 10 - 12 noon) 8 Leyton Road, Harpenden AL5 2TL www.bricktraders.co.uk

4th Dec 11am - 3pm Chilterns Gateway Centre Dunstable Downs LU6 2GY Join in and help dress the Christmas tree, cut from the beautiful Whipsnade Tree Cathedral. Write a wish to hang on the tree or make your own decoration. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Festivi-tea and Christmas Carols

11th & 18th Dec 1pm & 3pm The Shuttleworth Collection SG18 9EP Have yourself a merry little Christmas and enjoy a festive-themed afternoon tea served in the magnificent Shuttleworth House. Afterwards explore the house and learn about the history of the estate and the Shuttleworth family.

Adult £19.95, child £9.95 01767 627924 www.shuttleworth.org

Tracking Santa

Every year on Christmas Eve in a programme set up in 1965 by the North American Aerospace Defense Command you can track Santa as he leaves the North Pole and delivers presents to children around the world. Visit the website from 1st December to see the countdown to Santa’s launch. www.noradsanta.org

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Do Something for Charity

Make a ‘Dash’ for it Jingle Bell Jog and Reindeer Run 4th Dec Have fun raising funds for Rennie Grove, meet at Waterend Barn, St Albans Jingle Bell Jog, incl Santa suit 10 - 16 years £10, over 16’s £16 Reindeer Run, incl antlers and flashing nose Under 5’s £5, 5 - 16 years £10, over 16’s £16 www.renniegrove.org/jinglebelljog 01727 731009 Santa Run 4th Dec 11am Hatfield House A fun event for the whole family. The run/walk/ crawl is an easy route, choose from a 1/2 mile to a more testing 2.7km. Complete as many laps as you like but finish by 12 noon. You’ll receive a Santa Suit and medallion, under 9’s will receive antlers. Refreshments available from the Stable Yard Restaurant. Entry fees will go to Isabel Hospice and Herts Action on Disability.

Adults £15, 9 - 14 years £10, under 9’s £5 www.hatfield-house.co.uk Santa Dash 11th Dec 10am Have fun and help raise funds for The Hospice of St Francis. Recruit the family (and Jingle Dog) and dress up as Santa to join in with this annual Santa Dash through the streets of Hemel Hempstead. www.stfrancis.org.uk

Polar Bear Plunge

1st Jan Sub Aqua Club Pool, St Albans AL1 1HJ Start the year with a SPLASH for charity!

Last year 151 brave people plunged into the icy water of this outdoor, unheated pool to raise money for charity. The event raised £5093.28 and it’s hoped that in 2017 even more will be raised for Earth Works St Albans and Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

Grab tickets now - or gift one to a plucky pal or just come along and show your support.

Facebook - Polar Bear Plunge St Albans 2017 www.ed2northpole.org

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UK registered charity no 297489

St Albans Abbey Sleepout

2nd Dec 9pm - 7am This year St Albans Abbey will be hosting its 23rd Sleepout to raise awareness of homelessness and raise funds for eleven local charities dedicated to helping homeless people: Centre 33 St Albans / DENS Hemel Hempstead / Druglink Herts / Emmaus St Albans / Herts Young Homeless / LAMP Luton / Leighton Linslade Homeless Service / New Hope Watford / Open Door St Albans / Stevenage Haven and YMCA West and Central Herts.

Participants spend one night sleeping out giving them an understanding of the conditions experienced by the homeless.

Since the initiative began more than £500k has been raised.

So why not grab your sleeping bag and some warm clothes and join in, it’s open to anyone of any age but under 11’s must be accompanied by an adult. www.abbeysleepout.org.

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Events Out of Town The Ware Dickensian Evening

2nd Dec Ware Town Centre The historic town comes to life with a variety of entertainment, a children’s fun fair, six indoor venues and shops serving goodies and mulled wine.

The main celebrations start at 7pm when the Mayor turns on the lights in Tudor Square to the accompaniment of carols. There will be music throughout the evening with Bill Freeman's Happy Jazz Band, live performances at Hertfordshire College of Music, Rock Choir and Toque Tambor Samba Band. There will be craft markets, a Hertfordshire Country market and a traditional Christmas Tree Festival in Leaside Church, and of course Santa will be in his Grotto to meet the children.

People will be dressing in Dickensian costume or even just the odd Victorian top hat or bonnet so why not go along, dress up and join in the fun. www.dickensian.org.uk

A Victorian Spectacle

22nd Dec 2.30pm - 4pm Hertford Museum SG14 1DT Step back in time and explore Victorian Hertford at Christmas. Make traditional presents, play parlour games and much more.

Child £4.50, ages 6 -10, please book 01992 582686 www.hertfordmuseum.org

Christmas Cinema

22nd Dec £3 RAF Museum London NW9 5LL Come and enjoy a festive screening of a family favourite, film to be announced nearer the date so keep an eye on the website, costumes and fancy dress will be more than welcome! www.rafmuseum.org.uk

Winter Wonderland

until 2nd Jan Hyde Park W2 2UH Skate on the stunning ice rink around the Victorian bandstand. Watch world and national championshiplevel ice skaters perform acrobatics on a frozen stage with The Imperial Ice Stars. Go on an Arctic Adventure past icebergs and ice sculptures to a lost island in the Magical Ice Kingdom. Enjoy acrobatic wonders at Cirque Beserk, an evening showcase of amazing skills and daredevil stunts. Or take a seat on the Giant Observation Wheel for a flight above London with stunning views of the city's skyline. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

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Fabulous Forties Pamper Day

3rd Dec 9.30am - 3pm Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB Treat yourself to a fabulous 1940's inspired vintage makeover in this unique setting.

The Sarah’s Doo-Wop Dos team of styling experts will create a fabulous 1940's look just for you.

Choose one of the glamorous packages complete with iconic hairstyle, flawless make-up and followed by a delicious Bletchley Park high tea.

The Claireabellas’ Closet pop-up shop will be open selling vintage style clothing and accessories. www.bletchleypark.org.uk

CHRISTMAS TREES

Available from 1st December, Delivered to Your Door

LOGS and COAL

Seasoned Hardwood Logs Kindling and Smokeless Coal

GARDEN BUILDINGS

Official distributors of ALBANY Garden Buildings, including erection and base construction

LAWNMOWER SERVICING

All makes, including Hayter, Honda and Mountfield serviced and repaired

GARDEN MACHINERY SALES

Stockists of the COBRA range of garden machinery Including the new 16 inch cordless electric mowers with Li-ion batteries

Free delivery on orders over £10 within the AL5 area

Townsend Lane Harpenden AL5 2RH 01582 713083 info@townsendnursery.com

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Get Your Skates On Eyeskate until 3rd Jan Situated in front of the big wheel, its pods gently float past as you glide along. You don't need to book a flight on the Eye to skate but packages are on offer if you choose to do so. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. Please book. www.londoneye.com/frostival Tower of London Ice Rink until 3rd Jan Tower Hill London EC3N 4AB £13.50 Located in the dry moat, this is a grand historical setting for seasonal skating, with views of London's ancient fortress. Afterwards visit the Tower's temporary 'ice bar', literally serving drinks in ice!

Booking is advised www.toweroflondonicerink.co.uk Westfield London Ice Rink until 8th Jan Ariel Way, London W12 7SL £12, concs £11, child £10 Enjoy family entertainment, themed sessions, DJs and live performances children can hire penguin and seal shaped stabilisers (£5) to keep them upright.

Ages 4+, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Please book www.westfield.com/london/entertainment/events Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink until 8th Jan East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU Henry VIII's sixteenth-century pad makes a picturesque backdrop for this ice rink, especially when lit up after dark. Those who aren't too confident can hire an ice guide. Wrap up warm and take a turn on the ice in this regal back yard. www.hamptoncourticerink.com Natural History Museum Ice Rink until 8th Jan Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD 10am - 5.50pm, from £12.65 With trees dripping in fairy lights and a majestic Christmas tree in the centre making this a magical ice-rink and there’s a smaller rink for children. The Café Bar overlooking the ice has live music on Thursdays. www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/ice-rink Skate at Somerset House until 16th Jan Strand London WC2R 1LA 10am - 6pm, from £7.50 The grand 18th-century courtyard provides a stunning location for skating. Fortnum's Lodge will offer champagne and afternoon tea; Club Nights will feature DJs from Ministry of Sound and Island Records. The Christmas Arcade will bring posh shopping from Fortnum & Mason, and guests can admire the skaters with drinks in hand from the Botanical Bar. www.somersethouse.org.uk/Skate Skate Van Hage until 9th Jan Great Amwell SG12 9RP Whether you’re a Torvill and Dean or scramble around like Bambi, this is the ultimate experience for all the family, no matter your age or ability. Soak up the atmosphere in the heated marquee while enjoying a drink at the Ice Café. Skates are included in the price, sessions include 6Skate, Parent and Toddler, Special Needs and more.

Please book www.vanhage.co.uk Canary Wharf Ice Rink until 25th Feb Canada Square Park, London E14 5AH from £14.50 The soaring towers give the ice rink a fantastic backdrop. This year's theme is 'LuminoCity' and over 8,000 LED lights will be sparkling under the ice swathing skaters in colour. The bar will be serving drinks and seasonal snacks and visitors can admire those on the ice from the heated outdoor terrace. www.icerinktickets.co.uk/canary-wharf

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NOW at the Cathedral

3rd Dec Christmas Tower Tours 11.30am, 1pm, 2.30pm, £8.50 4th Dec Christingle Service 3pm 4th Dec Organ Meditation 5.15pm 6th Dec Willow Foundation Carol Concert 7.30pm Evening of carols and readings with the Hertfordshire Chorus, joined by The Foundations’ life presidents, Bob & Megs Wilson. £6 - £16, includes mulled wine and a mince pie 7th Dec Christmas Tower Tours 11am, 12.30pm, £8.50 10th Dec St Albans Bach Choir Christmas Carols Two concerts of Christmas music and readings 3pm: Family Carol Concert £7, child £1 7pm: Evening Carol Concert £13, child £6 15th Dec Talk: Poems for Advent, Jonathan Smith, Archdeacon of St Albans Cathedral, 7.30pm, £10

17th Dec Carols on the Hour every hour 11am to 4pm Enjoy a 30 minute carol service with the Cathedral choirs and local visiting choirs.

21st Dec 10am - 11am Teddy Bear Service Bring your Teddy Bear for stories and activities 21st & 22nd Dec Festival of Lessons and Carols 7pm By ticket only, available by postal ballot, applications must be received by 25th November Christmas Eve Crib Service 2.30pm Popular and lively service lasting about an hour for young families. Children visit the crib and join in singing carols.

Choral Evensong 5.30pm Midnight Mass 11.30pm, doors open 10.50pm Christmas Day Eucharist with Carols 8am Parish Eucharist 9.30am Matins 11.15am Eucharist 12.30pm Boxing Day Eucharist 9am & 12 noon & Carols 4pm www.stalbanscathedral.org

Ken Hodson

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Low hourly rate Most repairs carried out in your home, if not the computer will be picked up and delivered back to you.

Problems with Windows / Applications / Games / Internet / Networks fixed Friendly training and instruction available in plain English Advice given on upgrades - many older computers can be upgraded at a fraction of the cost of a new machine Upgrades of hardware and software

07974 156743 / 01582 794723 enquiries@kenhodsoncomputerservices.co.uk www.kenhodsoncomputerservices.co.uk

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Verulam Fencing  All Fencing Products  Top Quality Fencing  Repair & Maintenance  Fence Painting & Treatment  Gates & Trellis  All work Guaranteed  Free Quotations  Friendly Reliable Local Service Call Nick 07737 284711

nick.morgan87@googlemail.com Please visit Verulam Fencing on Facebook for reviews and pictures www.facebook.com/verulamfencing

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NOW for some Music Busking Day

3rd Dec 11am - 5pm Clock Tower, Market Place, St Albans To mark World Aids Day, local musicians will get together to raise awareness of HIV and funds for The Crescent, which was founded in 1988 and supports people across Herts, Beds and Bucks.

All services are free and they operate an open door service for support, HIV testing, free condoms etc. www.thecrescent.org.uk

Village Voices Christmas Concert

3rd Dec 7.30pm Church of St Leonards, Sandridge Enjoy some lovely seasonal choral works and community singing. There will also be a draw for a meal for two at the Queens Head in Sandridge. £5

Joy to the World!

The Beat

10th Dec 8pm Bedford Esquires £15 One of the biggest bands of the 2-Tone movement, Known for a string of hits, including "Mirror in the Bathroom", "Too Nice To Talk To" and more. Their songs of peace, love and unity fuse ska, pop, reggae and punk rock in this dynamic live show. www.thebeatofficial.com

St Albans Organ Theatre

Christmas Concert 10th Dec 7.30pm £10 Mechanical Instrument Christmas Special 11th Dec 1.45pm - 5pm Adult £10, under 11’s £5 Includes refreshments and mince pies 03003 65 65 65 www.stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk

3rd Dec 7.30pm Dagnall Street Baptist Church, St Albans Family Christmas Concert Presented by the Quorum singers with special guest.

11th Dec 3pm Free, collection in aid of UNICEF Aldwickbury School, Harpenden AL5 1AD Free family concert of festive music with Charity Carol Concert a performance by Harpenden Concert 10th Dec 3pm Band Sax Ensemble. Collection in aid of High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden Performed by the Music Makers Choir of Harpenden Herts Air Ambulance. Everyone welcome. www.facebook.com/TheHarpendenConcertBand with St Hilda's School Senior Choir, in aid of Cross Roads Care, Hertfordshire. Mince pies and Music for Christmas refreshments afterwards.

11th Dec 7pm £10, concs £6 / £2 The Old Palace, Hatfield House Enjoy a wonderful mix of carols and Ring Out, Wild Bells songs, old and new with the Hertfordshire Chorus.

10th Dec 7.30pm Adult £16, child £11 St Nicholas Church, Harpenden www.hertfordshirechorus.org.uk World premiere of a new work written for the Hardynge Choir’s 50th Anniversary year, a wonderful The Story of the Carol setting of the poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson. Also 23rd Dec 7.30pm featuring Benjamin Britten’s St Nicolas Cantata Harpenden Public Halls when the choir will be joined by children from local Lea Singers Christmas jamboree; schools, followed by readings and carols. £15, concs £5 £12, concs £6 www.leasingers.co.uk 0845 475 1664 tickets@hardyngechoir.org www.hardyngechoir.org

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Gary Rackley High Quality Decorator Interior & Exterior

Insurance Work Undertaken Established 26 Years City & Guilds Qualified 01923 460701 07721 624326 garyrackley@hotmail.co.uk

M&M Decorating Fully qualified City and Guilds Over 11 years experience All interior and exterior work undertaken Specialist in all types of wallpaper All work finished to a high professional standard Free quotations at competitive prices Matthew Hayden 01582 270715 07970 720911

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Santa Claus and the Night Before Christmas

1st - 24th Dec Watford Colosseum, WD17 3JN It's Christmas Eve and while most children are hanging up their stockings, there are some who don't believe in Santa and so cheeky elves Charlie and Kara must help Santa prove that he’s real! With magic tricks, songs and stories this is an unforgettable experience which includes the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience. Santa will meet all the children after the show to give them a special gift. Ages 2+ www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

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NOW at the Local Theatres Maltings Arts Theatre St Albans AL1 3HL

A Christmas Trifle 3rd Dec 7.30pm A recipe for an evening of song, harmony, humour and festive fun. Ingredients: 3 voices 1 piano 1 guitar 1 recorder 1 ukulele and maybe some other instruments that are lying around!

Method: Mix together some old favourites, Christmas classics, beautiful melodies, rousing duets and a large dollop of humour. Put in an appropriately sized venue and add an audience before serving. Adult £12, child £7.50 More Songs in the Key of Lee 4th Dec 8pm Fenella Lee returns with her band. Through the lyrics and music of some of the greatest songwriters, this new collection of songs explores the maze of love, loss and new beginnings. If you’ve ever loved, had your heart broken, or searched online for someone new this feast of humour, heartache and redemption is for you. Adult £12, child £7.50 Hansel and Gretel 8th & 9th Dec 7.30pm / 10th Dec 6.30pm St Albans Chamber Opera presents Engelbert Humperdinck’s delightful opera. This picture book production is full of wonderful tunes, magic and drama making a Christmas treat for all the family. Adult £15, child £12.50 Christmas Cracker by Anna Franklin 16th & 17th Dec 8pm Food of Love, OVO’s house band presents a selection of smooth and seasonally themed jazz classics from the mellow to the upbeat, with helpings of Sinatra, Simone, Fitzgerald and Martin thrown in. Adult £12, child £7.50 0333 666 3366 www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk

SandPit Theatre St Albans AL4 9NX

Goldilocks & The Three Bears 4th Dec 11am Everything is in disguise and the story goes into the skies with this comical retelling of Goldilocks, through a massive 6ft tall book complete with pop ups and props coming out of it!

Adult £8 concs £6 01727 799565 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Abbey Theatre St Albans AL1 2DL

The Wind in the Willows 16th - 22nd & 27th - 30th Dec Mole meets Ratty on the river, and so begins a series of adventures that include Badger, Mr Toad, fast cars, a prison break and an exciting battle. This family show is fast moving and packed with comedy and songs.

01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

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NOW at UH Herts December Discoveries 4th Dec 7.30pm Weston Auditorium AL10 9EU £20 / £15 concs £8 / £6 de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra presents less well-known works by popular composers including Beethoven’s King Stephen Overture and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No 3 (Scottish). The spectacular British violinist Jennifer Pike, youngest-ever BBC Young Musician of the Year (2002) will play Dvorak’s lyrical Violin Concerto.

Jam Jar: the Hottest new Bands and DJs 13th Dec 8.30pm free Attic Bar, The Forum Hertfordshire A monthly live music event featuring new talent from both the university and across the county. Hosted by INFUSE, the University’s record label.

Santa and the Pirates that Don’t Want Christmas 18th Dec 2pm Weston Auditorium AL10 9EU £11 includes gift With Callum Donnelly and Robin Hatcher from CBeebies Spot Bots. Santa is having trouble as somebody has stolen his naughty list! When the pirates of the good ship ‘Christmas Cheer’ offer to help him, he must decide who has been good and who has been naughty! But can you ever really trust a pirate?

Come and meet Santa after the performance and post any last minute ‘Dear Santa’ letters.

University of Hertfordshire uharts@herts.ac.uk 01707 285395 www.uharts.co.uk

EXPERIENCING HARDSHIP FINANCIAL OR OTHERWISE? DO YOU LIVE IN THE AL5 POSTAL AREA? IF SO WE MAY BE ABLE TO HELP CONTACT US AT THE HARPENDEN TRUST 90 SOUTHDOWN RD HARPENDEN AL5 1PS 01582 460457 email: admin@theharpendentrust.org.uk

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What’s on in December 42

until 25th Feb Get Your Skates on see page 30 20th Nov - 24th Dec Where’s Santa see page 14 1st Henning Wehn - Westphalia is Not an Option The Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488, 8pm 2nd Romesh Ranganathan: Irrational The Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488, 8pm Legend of a Band - The Moody Blues Tribute Harpenden Public Halls, 7.30pm, £22.50 Victorian Frost Fair British Schools Museum, Hitchin, SG4 9TS 4.30pm - 7.30pm Harpenden Writers Meeting Quaker Meeting House, Southdown Road, 01582 760564 St Albans Abbey Sleepout see page 26 3rd Cracking Christmas Crafts Verulamium Museum, AL3 4SW, 01727 751810, £3, 3+ Busking Day see page 34 Christmas Fayre St Georges School, 1pm Christmas Owl Encounter Herring Green Activity Farm & Birds of Prey Centre, MK45 www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk Exhibition: National Service Park Hall, Leyton Rd, Harpenden Local History Soc, 2.30 - 4.30pm 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th,17th, 18th & 31st Children's Christmas Trail Ashridge Estate, HP4 1LT, 10 - 3pm, £3 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 4th Jingle Bell Jog see page 26 Santa Run at Hatfield House see page 26 Batford Lights Switch On 3.30pm Christingle St Nicholas Church, 4.30pm St Albans Cathedral Christingle see page 32 December Discoveries see page 40 6th Talk: Succession Planting in the Mixed Border Harpenden Gardening Society, Roundwood Park School, £3, 8pm Myth, Mincemeat & Merriment Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, Harpenden Salvation Army Hall, 01582 621757, 2pm, visitors welcome 7th: 7pm-9pm 12th: 10am-12pm Christmas Wreath Making Workshop page 25 8th Dec - 8th Jan Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs see page 18 9th & 10th Mimi & the Mountain Dragon see page 25 10th Charity Carol Concert see page 34 Ring Out, Wild Bells see page 34 St Albans Bach Choir Christmas Carols pg 32

10th - 22nd Cinderella see page 18 & back cover 10th Dec - 3rd Jan Jack & The Beanstalk see page 18 11th Light up a Light Service War Memorial, St Peter's Street, St Albans, 4pm 15th Batford Pensioners Christmas Party Batford Memorial Hall, 01582 767121, 12.30pm 16th - 22nd & 27th - 30th The Wind in the Willows see page 40 17th Carols on the Hour see page 32 17th Dec - 4th Jan Dick Whittington see page 18 18th Jingle Ponies Ashridge Estate, pony fancy dress parade, 11am - 12 noon www.nationaltrust.org.uk Sunday Walk join the St Albans Adventure Group on this circular walk, about 5 hours, from Kimpton Church, bring a packed lunch, 10.30am - 3.30pm 19th Shake Rattle & Sing! Soroptimists will be Carol Singing at Harpenden Station, 6pm - 7.30pm 20th Christmas Carol Concert High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden Choral Society, 7.30pm www.harpendenchoralsociety.org/concerts 23rd The Story of the Carol see page 34 Christmas Day Salvation Army Christmas Dinner see page 21 Boxing Day St George & the Dragon see page 24 27th Post-Christmas Walk Ashridge Estate, Tring HP4 1LK scenic walk through the estate, please book 01442 851227, 10am - 12 noon, £5, child £3 27th - 30th 12 Days of Christmas Trail Verulamium Museum, St Albans AL3 4SW, 01727 751810, 10am - 5pm 28th & 30th DICK! Hawthorne Theatre, WGC, over 18s, Dick & his cat are going to London to seek fame, fortune &…£15, 7.30pm www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk 29th & 30th Engineering Open Workshop The Shuttleworth Collection, SG18 9EP, 01767 627924, 10am - 4pm www.shuttleworth.org 31st Rockabellas Present A Very Vintage New Year Harpenden Public Halls, 3 course gourmet meal, live entertainment & DJ, 7.30pm - 1am, £65 www.therockabellas.com

Harpenden Window Cleaning Fully Insured Gutter Vac (Gutters ● High Access Cleaned) ● Fully Experienced Window Cleaners ● Inside Windows Cleaned (if required) ●

Enjoy your free time and let us do the hard work for you General household and office cleaning Moving in / out cleans Experienced in elderly or housebound clients Ironing collection / delivery on request Reliable key-holders Proficient in alarm systems

Phone for a free quotation 01582 750995 07719 657125 www.merrivac.co.uk ~ Taking Care of Your Home ~

Lots of recommendations and references from Harpenden customers Based in Milton Road 07757 499296 01582 450934 www.harpendenclean.co.uk

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43

What’s on in January

1st Polar Bear Plunge see page 26 2nd New Year’s Day Celebration Concert St Albans Cathedral, 7pm, £8 - £28 St Albans Symphony Orchestra: New Year Concert St Saviour’s Church, AL1 4DF, 7.30pm, £5 - £28 www.saso.org.uk/concerts 5th - 9th Harpenden Gang Show Harpenden Public Halls www.hwgangshow.org.uk 6th Harpenden Writers Meeting Quaker Meeting House, Southdown Road, 10am - 12 noon, all welcome www.harpendenwriters.com 7th & 8th Bride: The Wedding Show Knebworth Barns, 10am - 4pm www.knebworthhouse.com 8th Solemn Evensong for Epiphany St Albans Cathedral, sung by Alban Voices, 6.30pm 14th Hertfordshire Chamber Orchestra Concert St Nicholas Church, Dvořák, Beethoven & Wagner, 7.30pm, £15, concs £12, child £5 www.atsociety.org.uk/hcoconcert 17th Talk: Gorhambury Through the Ages’

by Viscountess Grimston, Harpenden Local History Society, Harpenden Public Halls, 8pm

Winter Special 25% off Shutters

20% off all Blinds, Awnings, Poles & Curtains

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20th - 28th Bull Abbey Theatre, St Albans, 01727 857861, compelling work by an award-winning young playwright Mike Bartlett, adult themes, 8pm 21st Waterloo - The Best of Abba Tribute Show The Alban Arena, 8pm, £22.50 www.alban-arena.co.uk Exhibition: Brambleton Model Railway Club Harpenden Public Halls, 10.30am - 5.30pm The Close-up Magic Show Hertford Theatre SG14 1PS www.hertfordtheatre.com 25th Mayors Charity Schools’ Music Night St Georges School, 01582 463662, £5, child £2.50 25th - 29th Beauty & the Beast Harpenden Public Halls, £10, concs £7 www.hurstchildrenstheatregroup.co.uk 26th The Classic Rock Show - The A-Z of Rock The Alban Arena, 7.30pm www.alban-arena.co.uk 28th All Star Superslam Wrestling The Alban Arena Amadeus Chamber Orchestra St Peter’s Church, St Albans AL1 3HG 7.30pm, £15, concs £12/£3 www.amadeuschamberorchestra.org.uk Burns Night The Noke Hotel, St Albans, with Ceilidh band, please book 01727 731028, £42.50 29th Epiphany & Candlemas Carol Service St Albans Cathedral, 6.30pm

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Index of Businesses

Accountants Hicks

41

Aerial Installations & Repairs Concorde Aerials Art Classes Start Art!

16 4

Beauty Lavender & Stone The Cover Spa Templespa

6 47 7

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

33

Blinds Harpenden Blinds

44

Building Services Brockhall Building Services Open Plan Solutions

19 13

Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop Ltd

45

Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services Ltd

45

Charity Hertfordshire Age UK The Harpenden Trust The Salvation Army Traid

21 41 21 26

Chiropodist Kathy Witchard

7

Cleaning Domestique Merrivac

43 43

Computer Repairs Ken Hodson

32

Conservatory Roof Solutions Nu-Look

9

Dance & Drama Penny Waterman School of Dance Stagecoach Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

Locksmith Lock Around the Clock

17

38 39 Luxury Apartments For Sale Cromwell Court

15

Oven Cleaning 16 Ovenmaster Oven Wizards

23 23

Electrician ACR Electrical Ltd & ACR Build 12 Fencing Verulam Fencing

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators Gary Rackley 33 M & M Decorating

Finance AMR Financial Management 41 Buy2LetCars.com 10 & 11 Garden Centres / Nurseries Bridge Valley Nursery Burston Garden Centre Townsend Nursery Gardening / Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd Garden Life Landscapes Greenshouse & Gardens Hairdresser Emma Bouchier Health & Fitness Rebecca Messer Pilates Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice Home & Hardware Store Clas Ohlson Indian Restaurant Shapla Insurance NFU Mutual Kindergarten / Nursery Artisans Redbourn House Day Nursery

35 35 35

Plasterer A. Merson Plastering Plumbers DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

12 19 & 47

3 27 Pond Maintenance 29 Women With Waders Property Maintenance 31 The 50plus 29 Trust in Blue 31 Roofing BPL Roofing Ltd 7 Security Maximum Security 18 Social Enterprise St Albans CVS & Volunteer Centre 20 Stairlifts Age UK Stairlifts 5 Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd 23 Tyre Fitting Big D’s Tyres 2 Window Cleaner Harpenden Window Cleaning 38 Windows & Doors 39 Cloudy2Clear Kings Windows Sash Restorations Ltd

28 19 12 8 17 21 17 27 44 43 36 37 37

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We have made every effort to ensure that any material published in harpenden NOW is correct and can accept no liability for any errors or delays in publication or distribution, harpenden NOW accepts no responsibility for its advertisers.

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