harpenden NOW January 17 by wendy robertson

harpenden

NOW

January 2017

Happy New Year! RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch

NOW for some Walks and Talks A Holistic Health Approach

Waxing Lyrical NOW at the Local Theatres

NOW for some Music NOW at the Cathedral

What’s on and lots more

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

choose local first

NOW at the Cathedral

Welcome to the New Year

St Albans Half Marathon

Happy New Year Jane & Wendy 07983 588313 www.theNOWmagazines.com

run or walk for charity

NOW for some Walks and Talks 16 health, history & birds

It’s that time when everyone’s making resolutions, so whether it’s getting fit, learning a new thing or perhaps volunteering with a local charity, we've included all you need to get you started, with lots of health and fitness stuff, classes and courses and our usual charity page. Our centre pages include lots of things to do and see from the British Wildlife Photography Awards to Ice Skating, a Real Tennis Match and all things Scientific. So why not sit down with a cuppa, have a flick through and see what takes your fancy. And don't forget you can always read the magazines every month on-line.

carols, services & more

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 20 get counting birds & wildlife

‘NOW at the Local Theatres 22 pantos, music & drama

Happy New Year! 24 tennis, trains & Tring

Deliciousandreal’ Family Food 30 cauliflowers & lentils

A Holistic Health Approach 32 Vision Weight Consultancy

Waxing Lyrical 34 Hearing Healthcare Practice

NOW for some Music 36

Just email wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

to be in the February editions

Deadline: 10th Jan

classical, concerts & choirs

What’s on in January 42 & February 44 Index of Businesses 46 accountants to windows & doors

To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

Winter Special 25% off Shutters 20% off all Blinds, Awnings, Poles & Curtains

01923 224472

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St Albans Half Marathon

NOW at the Cathedral 2nd January 7pm New Year’s Day Celebration Concert St Albans Symphony Orchestra R. Strauss - Der Rosenkavalier Suite Schumann - Konzertstück for Four Horns & Orchestra Tchaikovsky - Swan Lake suite (selections) Hess - Ladies in Lavender Gade - Tango ‘Jalousie’ J Strauss jnr - Tales from the Vienna Woods Conductor: Tom Hammond 8th January 6.30pm Solemn Evensong for Epiphany Sung by Alban Voices 11th January 12.30pm Lunchtime Organ Recital Jemima Stephenson, Toulouse Free, collection in aid of Cathedral music funds. £28, £22, £16 and £8 14th January 5.30pm St Albans International Organ Festival Organ Recital Johannes Zeinler, Austria Admission free, collection in aid of the IOFS. 23rd January 7.30pm Talk: Europe’s Other Faith? Islam in German History and its Implications for Britain Today Dr James Hodkinson, Warwick University £10 26th January 8pm The Gospel According to John The Very Revd Dr Jeffrey John, Dean of St Albans £6 29th January 6.30pm Epiphany & Candlemas Carol Service Beautiful service of music and readings, sung by the Abbey Girls Choir and men of the Cathedral Choir. www.stalbanscathedral.org

Resolution season is in full flow! Are you thinking of taking on a new challenge, losing weight, or getting more active? Then this year’s St Albans Half Marathon on Sunday 11th June is for you. But I can’t run! I hear you say… Yes you can! If you can put one foot in front of the other, you can run. You won’t be the only novice on the start line either. In 2016 over 40% of runners were new to the event. If they can do it, so can you! I don’t know how to train! When it comes to learning how to run, it’s all about building up your stamina over a period of time. “Learning to run is mostly about commitment” says Katie Foweraker, Race Director of St Albans Half Marathon and founder of Athena Ladies’ Running Group. “Setting a goal can help keep you motivated, so a lot of people find that the race in June is a perfect goal to set. We also have a 5K and Walking Half Marathon too”. You can find some example training plans on our website to help you get started. If you would rather run with company, why not grab a friend or join a running club in the local area? What’s in it for me? Running has endless benefits, both for your physical and mental health. You’ll feel fitter, have more energy and might even be able to fit back into those jeans and just by signing up you’ll be supporting your local community too. St Albans Half Marathon donates all profits from the event to local charities and organisations and donated over £25,000 in 2016! You could also support a charity close to your heart by setting up a fundraising page and sharing your training progress! So, what are you waiting for?! Sign up now, grab your trainers and soon you’ll have the running bug just like us. Oh, did we mention that you get a free ice lolly at the finish line? #icelollyrun www.stalbanshalfmarathon.co.uk

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Biggest Loser Lose weight and feel healthier – join the Hospice of St Francis Biggest Loser Challenge in conjunction with Sportspace Hemel Hempstead. The competition starts in February and applications must be received by 27th January. The challenge includes a free 12 week Sportspace membership, personal training sessions, weekly weigh-ins and a personalised nutritional plan. Last year’s winner Luke Jelfs said: “The Biggest Loser 2016 gave me the knowledge, support and motivation to lose over 45 lbs in 3 months and change my outlook on life. I came away buzzing with confidence, richer in friends and delighted to have supported a wonderful charity”. To sign up visit www.stfrancis.org.uk/biggestloser

The Need for Blood Help make sure there are enough supplies of blood. Every donor helps meet the challenge of providing a regular supply of all blood groups and types. O Rh negative blood is rare but essential because it’s the only type that can be given to anyone, regardless of their blood type. Your blood's main components are red cells, plasma and platelets which have a short shelf life, so it’s essential to keep topping up the supply: - Red blood cells can be stored for up to 35 days - Platelets can be stored for up to 7 days - Plasma can be stored for up to 3 years Your blood will save lives and your blood donation is an amazing gift to people who need it in an emergency or for on-going treatment. Over 6,000 people need to give blood every day to meet the needs of hospitals and patients. Why not book an appointment on line or call 0300 123 23 23. 8th Jan Harpenden, St Dominic RC Primary School Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PF 10.25am -12.45pm & 2pm - 4.05pm 10th Jan St Albans, YMCA - Highfield Park Centre 59 Russet Drive St Albans AL4 0DB 12.30pm - 3.30pm & 5pm - 7.45pm 31st Jan Harpenden Public Halls Southdown Road, Harpenden 1pm - 3pm & 4.15pm - 7pm www.blood.co.uk

Dry January Dry January is a chance to ditch the hangover, reduce the waistline, and save some serious cash by giving up alcohol for 31 days. Last year 14,000 people used the free app to help motivate themselves to stick to the challenge and change their drinking habits. From a small thing done by a couple of people on their own, ‘Dry January’ has become the new normal. A YouGov survey has revealed that 16% of the adult population attempted to go Dry last January. Research from Royal Free Hospital backs up just how good a month off the booze is for the body; improvements in concentration and sleep patterns, plus positive impact on blood sugar levels, blood pressure and the liver. And think of all the money you’ll save (the average person spends £50,000 on booze in their lifetime!) It’s a pretty impressive list. If you could come up with a new health supplement or discover a superfood that had all those benefits, you’d be a millionaire. Alcohol Concern offer the help, advice and encouragement to help you gain these benefits, all for free. But you’re not just doing some good for yourself, you’re part of a movement of millions of people looking to improve the lives of those around them too. While helping to create a culture of happiness, confidence and health that achieves far more good than just the break from booze. www.alcoholconcern.co.uk

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01727 298

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Inspiring Social Enterprise Could your idea earn you a living and do your community some good? This is a project run by St Albans Centre for Voluntary Service, and aims to enthuse and advise potential local social entrepreneurs. Do you want to start your own local business with a social purpose or want to help your community and make a living? Need advice on where to get support and ideas for funding, if so go along to the following events. There are also free grants available for new Adult Support and Care social enterprises. Social Enterprise-What is it and is it for me? 26th January: 7.30pm - 9.30pm, free St Albans Civic Centre, AL1 3JE Hear from local social entrepreneurs Social Enterprise Clinic Road-test your idea 19th January: 7.30pm - 9.30pm Park Hall, Harpenden AL5 2AX 1st March: 10am - 12 noon St Albans Civic Centre, AL1 3JE Input from experts in business planning, funding and more Care for Yourself: What’s it like working as a self-employed carer? 9th March: 7.30pm - 9.30pm St Albans Civic Centre, AL1 3JE Setting up a support and care enterprise Social Enterprise Fair 3rd April: 10am - 4pm The University of Hertfordshire AL10 9EU For more dates, information and to book visit www.volunteerstalbans.org.uk

UK registered charity no 297489

Christmas Card Recycling 2nd - 31st Jan Marks & Spencer will be running their usual Christmas Card Recycling Scheme. Drop off your cards in store to help the Woodland Trust turn festive waste into woodland, M&S have pledged to plant 1 tree for every 1000 cards collected.

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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: help@theharpendentrust.org.uk Registered Charity No 1118870

To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

National Winnie the Pooh Day 18th January Author AA Milne brought the adorable, honey-loving bear to life in his stories and each year National Winnie the Pooh Day is celebrated on his birthday. Pooh Bear was inspired by a black bear named Winnie who lived at London Zoo during WWI. The authorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s son, Christopher Robin often visited the bear and named his own teddy after her and a swan named Pooh. This friendship inspired the classic books starting in 1926. Celebrate the day by visiting Pooh Corner in Hartfield, East Sussex where the books were written, follow in the characters footsteps and play Poohsticks on the original bridge. For something nearer visit Hundred Acre Wood, Aldenham Country Park, where you can visit Eeyoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gloomy Place, the North Pole and see Pooh tidying up 100 Aker Wood every day at 2pm. Use #WinnieThePoohDay to post on social media. www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk

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NOW for some Walks and Talks RSPB Events These events are run by an RSPB volunteer group, and at each one a donation of £1 to the RSPB would be appreciated. Harpenden Lea Valley Walk 1st Jan & 5th Feb 8am - 10.15am Guided walks identifying local birds. Meet on the bridge over the River Lea near the 'Marquis of Granby', junction of Crabtree Lane and Marquis Lane. Early Morning Walk 3rd Jan 8am Meet at Batford Springs, Harpenden The nature reserve at Batford Springs offers a quiet oasis amid the urban landscape of Harpenden. It provides a variety of habitats for species, including River, Reedbed, Damp Woodland and Meadow. It also features a network of chalk streams which are fed from boreholes drilled down into the chalk layer beneath the Reserve, providing cool, fresh water for growing water cress commercially in days gone by. The Batford Springs Volunteers, help to maintain and manage the reserve, performing conservation activities that encourage habitat and species diversity, while offering educational and recreational opportunities. Talk: The Bob Scott appeal - Protecting Wildlife Habitat in East Africa £3 12th Jan 8pm Illustrated talk by Ann Scott All Saints' Church Hall, Station Road, Harpenden Local Morning Walk 25th Jan 9.45am Half day birdwatching walk. It’s likely to be wet and muddy. May be subject to late change of venue, check website or contact the leader before attending. Meet at corner of Station Road and Marquis Lane, Harpenden. Please inform the leader if you are coming 01582 764226. Talk: Wings Across the World - Bird Migration 9th Feb 8pm Illustrated talk by Peter Holden MBE - formerly RSPB, £3 All Saints Church Hall, Station Road, Harpenden. Morning Walk in the Ver Valley 22nd Feb 9.45am Half day birdwatching walk led by Ann and Roger, contact them for details on 01582 764226.

Guided Walks St Albans City Tour Guides Just turn up and pay the guide, adult £4, child £2 1st Jan 11am Historic St Albans - A City Revealed Meet at the Old Town Hall, St Peters Street. 11th & 25th Jan, 8th & 22nd Feb Ghosts & Ghouls 8pm Explore haunted St Albans and visit places noted for some strange events, you may wonder if you are on your own – who knows! Meet at the Clock Tower, High Street, St Albans 29th Jan 11am & 2.30pm Walking Talking Buildings Did you know that melons were once grown in the gardens around St Peter’s Street? Or that the Clock Tower bell was rung at the start of the First Battle of St Albans in 1455? Uncover the secret histories of buildings we walk past every day. Meet at the Clock Tower, free. www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

CMS Walk 14th Jan 1pm - 2pm The History of How Wood St Albans AL2 2RF This small area of ancient woodland has a number of stories to tell from the Ice Age to WWII. Join the Countryside Management Service for a guided walk to uncover the clues the woodland offers into the past and hear about how this helps them plan for its management in the future. www.hertsdirect/walksandmore

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RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 28th - 30th Jan This annual event helps the RSPB build a picture of garden wildlife across the UK showing them what species may be in danger. Why not get involved and give nature a home where you live and take part in this very worthwhile event. In 2016, 8,262,662 birds were counted, the most common was the House Sparrow followed by the Blue Tit, Starling, Blackbird and Pigeon. Taking part is easy just visit www.rspb.org.uk and open the live bird counter or just use a pen and paper while you watch the birds in your garden or local park, for one hour recording the highest number of each type you see as well as other animals such badgers and squirrels. All information collected will be used to monitor our garden wildlife in the coming months. www.rspb.org.uk

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NOW at the Local Theatres

The Alban Arena St Albans AL1 3LD

Harpenden Public Halls

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs until 8th Jan Spectacular, fun-packed, family pantomime, starring EastEnders; Rita Simons, hilarious Dame Bob Golding and a top-quality cast.

Harpenden AL5 1PB Beauty and the Beast 25th - 29th Jan The Hurst Children’s Theatre Group are ready to make you laugh, cry and quite frankly scream for more; with their rendition of this classic story. Adults £10, concs £7 07568 363104 www.hurstchildrenstheatregroup.co.uk

We Will Rock You Open Auditions 14th Jan 10.30am - 1pm 7yrs - 11yrs 1.30pm - 4pm 12yrs+ Auditions for an exciting new summer show with The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts. Tommy Emmanuel 18th Jan 7.30pm Two-time Grammy Nominee acoustic guitarist, Tommy Emmanuel brings us his passionate, infectious live show. Waterloo - The Best of Abba Tribute Show 21st Jan 8pm This phenomenal new tribute show looks back at the sensational rise to stardom of Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid and gives fans the chance to experience the thrill of a live Abba show! The Classic Rock Show - The A-Z of Rock 26th Jan 7.30pm With the greatest songs from right across the Alphabet of Rock, this world class band powers through Classic Rock’s finest moments, from AC/DC and Aerosmith to Eric Clapton, The Eagles, ELO, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Meatloaf and Queen to The Who, Zeppelin, ZZ Top and everything in between. All Star Superslam Wrestling 28th Jan 7.30pm A new superstar line up when stars of Superslam wrestling return with a line up of top international talent from the major federations around the world to face the best of British personalities in a non-stop fun filled family night. 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk

Maltings Arts Theatre St Albans AL1 3HL The Odd Couple 19th - 21st, 26th - 28th Jan 7.30pm Felix Unger, a neurotic news writer, is having a life crisis; his wife is leaving him and he has nowhere to live. At breaking point he turns to his closest friend Oscar Madison, a slovenly sports writer, who invites him to be his roommate. Tension rises as the mismatched pair clash over their new living arrangement and it reaches breaking point! Adult £10, concs £7.50 0333 666 3366 www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk

Abbey Theatre St Albans AL1 2DL Bull by Mike Bartlett 20th - 28th Jan 8pm & 22nd Jan 2.30pm The action is unrelenting and at times vicious as the play explores fear, power and control in the ‘bullring’ of office politics. Mike Bartlett’s play won an Olivier Award in 2015. The Guardian said, ‘You cannot avoid being drawn into the contest and becoming complicit – even guiltily enjoying the spectacle of the kill.’ The play contains strong language and adult themes. 01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

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Happy New Year!

British Wildlife Photography Awards 21st Jan - 26th March 10am - 4pm Free Stockwood Discovery Centre The Awards were established to recognise the incredible talents of British photographers, while at the same time highlighting the great wealth and diversity of Britain’s natural history. This highly acclaimed exhibition will captivate you with its outstanding and beautiful imagery. www.lutonculture.com

London's New Year's Day Parade 1st Jan Free Come and enjoy the spectacular New Year’s Day Parade along the streets of London. Every year, dancers, acrobats, cheerleaders, marching bands, historic vehicles and more come together for a colourful celebration of contemporary performances and traditional pomp and ceremony. With more than 8,000 performers representing the London boroughs and countries from across the globe, this fantastic event attracts around 500,000 spectators. This year’s theme is ‘Lights, Camera, Action’, featuring film and TV-themed displays and performances, with huge balloons, music and confetti filling the air. Catch the festivities along the route, which starts at Green Park Tube station at 12 noon and finishes at Parliament Square at around 3.30pm, via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. www.londonparade.co.uk

Real Tennis Exhibition Match 26th Jan 6.30pm Hatfield House Watch some top level Real Tennis and then have a go yourself at the original Racquet Sport. The two Hatfield professionals Jon Dawes and James Law will be going head to head in an exhibition match. Before it starts spectators who are new to Real Tennis can go on to court to learn the rules of the game. Afterwards the professionals will hit some balls on court with anyone who’d like to give the game a try. Book early (max 48 seats) £20 includes refreshments 01707 273391 hhtc@gotadsl.co.uk

Talk: Verulamium Revealed 17th Jan 8.15pm Park Street Village Hall, St Albans AL2 2PX Speaker, Kris Lockyear of The Park Street & Frogmore Society, has been fascinated with archaeology and the Romans since first visiting Verulamium as a young boy. In his teens he spent his summers working on Roman excavations. He studied Archaeology at Durham University, and has since undertaken geophysical, topographical and field surveys in the UK, Poland, Italy, Romania, USA and Iraq. He appeared on Terry Jones' Barbarians as an expert on the Dacians, and has published on many aspects of Roman numismatics, Roman and Iron Age archaeology, and archaeological methodology. He recently returned to lead large scale geophysical surveys at Verulamium. His talk will describe this work and reveal some of the findings. £2 01727 873491

Get Your Skates On Westfield London Ice Rink until 8th Jan Ariel Way, London W12 7SL £12, concs £11 / £10 Enjoy family entertainment, themed sessions, DJs and live performances children can hire penguin and seal shaped stabilisers (£5) to keep them upright. www.westfield.com/london/entertainment/events

Brambleton Model Railway Exhibition 21st Jan 10.30am - 5.30pm Harpenden Public Halls The event caters for both families and model railway enthusiasts with the usual mix of layouts, preservation stands and traders. Refreshments available. www.brambleton.org.uk

Cafe Scientifique 30th Jan 7.30pm The Silver Cup, Harpenden AL5 2JF A place where for the price of a cuppa or a glass of wine, you can come and explore the latest ideas in science and technology. Meeting on the last Monday of the month. Just turn up or book by emailing: cafescientifiqueharpenden@gmail.com Facebook.com/cafescientifiqueharpenden Twitter: @csharpenden

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. www.hamptoncourticerink.com Natural History Museum Ice Rink until 8th Jan Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD 10am - 5.50pm, With trees dripping in fairy lights, this a magical ice-rink and there’s a smaller rink for children. www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/ice-rink 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. Skates are included in the price, sessions include 6Skate, Parent and Toddler, Special Needs and more. Please book www.vanhage.co.uk 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. www.somersethouse.org.uk/Skate

NOW at Tring Museum Wonderful Wings 19th Jan 11am & 2pm 30-minute craft workshops, £2, messy play for under 5s Polar Expedition Specimen Tour 19th Jan 7pm - 8pm Explore the rich history of Tring's polar specimens and uncover the extreme efforts that explorers went to in order to uncover these icy worlds, £4.50, please book, most suitable for adults. Talk: The Stars Above: The Solar System 21st Jan 6.30pm - 8pm Join local astronomers and Museum experts to discover the solar system with this special talk and observation event. Ages 7+ adult £6, child £4.50, please book Behind the Scenes at Tring 26th Jan 11am & 3pm Step into one of the collections areas and discover how the world-renowned bird research collection is used. , £10, please book Tring Natural History Museum, Tring, HP23 6AP www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/tring

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. www.icerinktickets.co.uk/canary-wharf

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‘Deliciousandreal’ Family Food Harissa Roasted Cauliflower I’m always on the look out for tasty vegetarian recipes and found a variation of this one thanks to the lovely Fitnaturally healthy eating plans. If you haven’t roasted cauliflower before, give this a go as it completely transforms what is (in my opinion) a rather boring vegetable. The original recipe only had chickpeas in it, but I had some cannellini beans in the fridge which needed to be used up so I fried them with the onion as it transforms their texture and adds another dimension to the dish. Serves 4 - 6 1 cauliflower, separated into bite-sized florets 4 tbsp olive oil Salt 1 tsp ground cumin 400g tin chickpeas, drained 1 small red onion

Half a tin cannellini beans, drained 2 tbsp harissa 2 handfuls of spinach Crumbled feta cheese and chopped cherry tomatoes (optional)

Heat the oven to 200°C. Put the cauliflower florets in a large bowl and add 3 tbsp oil, ½ tsp salt and cumin, and mix with your hands so the cauliflower is evenly coated and place in a roasting tin for 20 minutes. Add the chickpeas and put back in the oven for a further 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a frying pan; soften the onion with a pinch of salt. Stir in the harissa,1 tbsp water and the cannellini beans, cook on low for a further 5 minutes Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Combine the cauliflower and chickpeas with the onion and cannellini beans and top with a little crumbled feta and chopped cherry tomatoes (optional).

Slow Cooked Lentil Soup This slow-cooked soup is delicious, super healthy and simple to make. I tend to put it on to cook overnight so in the morning the kitchen is filled with the gorgeous aroma of this souper warming pot of goodness! Serves 6 1500ml vegetable or chicken broth 1 butternut squash (peeled and cubed) Salt and pepper 2 carrots (peeled and sliced) Add in at the end: 2 sweet potatoes (chopped) 100g kale (stems removed, chopped) 400g red lentils Handful of basil 1 onion (chopped) 100ml olive oil 2 garlic cloves (minced) Place all ingredients in the slow-cooker. Cover and cook on high for 5-6 hours or low for 7-8 hours. Place about 500ml of the soup in a blender with the olive oil and basil. Pulse gently until semismooth and creamy-looking. Add back to the pot and stir to combine. Stir in the kale and cook for another 5 minutes. Season to taste. For more tasty family friendly recipes follow local mum Claire Gillies Twitter: @deliciousreal16 Instagram: @deliciousandreal Facebook: @deliciousandreal

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A Holistic Health Approach Vision Weight Consultancy, has developed into a ‘holistic health practice’, where we now offer more therapies for a wider variety of problems. Nutritional therapy can have a huge impact on improving health issues, and in many cases, it’s possible to do this naturally without the need for medication. We do, however, always stress to clients the importance of being honest with us about conditions that may need medical treatment and recommend they tell their GP that they are having nutritional therapy. If we become concerned about possible underlying health conditions during appointments, we won’t continue until the client has consulted with their GP. We prefer to work alongside GPs, which in our experience brings the best results. Much of what we do at Vision concentrates on good nutrition, because the hard truth is that most of us become ill because our nutritional requirements are simply not met. If we put the wrong type of petrol into a car, it would not work and over time, it’s the same with our bodies, hence health problems such as; diabetes, heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure and digestive problems. We offer hypnotherapy separately, to help with stress, weight issues, habits such as nail biting and smoking. In some cases, we use other techniques such as the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to help deal with daily stress. Food allergies and intolerances are common and can cause much misery to the sufferer. Sometimes, clients may not realise that their symptoms are due a food allergy, unless it’s severe ; therefore, isolating any allergies and implementing a healthy diet where offending foods are avoided, can bring huge relief. Our weight loss programmes are tailored to the individual client and may incorporate all, or some of

the above treatments. We look at all aspects of life including: nutritional requirements, stress, exercise, eating patterns and sleep. These are all key issues that can affect weight, for example, lack of sleep can lead to weight gain and in turn, weight gain can cause sleep apnoea, which also leads to weight gain! Once pinpointed, we can work with the client to improve the problems, sometimes with help from their GP. Because we believe that everyone should have a choice regarding health care, we have revised our prices for the new year, enabling more people to access our services.

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Waxing Lyrical We recently stopped by Hearing Healthcare Practice in Harpenden who, with Commendations for audiologists Sanna Aziz and Robert Beiny, are currently celebrating yet more awards in the prestigious Audiologist of the Year competition Along with colleague Jo Rae, the Hearing Heathcare Practice team has now won 12 awards since 2009, making it the most acclaimed clinic in the country. We asked business owner Robert Beiny why they are so successful in the Competition and what new services they are launching in 2017. “I suppose it’s that we just never give up on anyone, no matter how small or great their problem. We’re determined to challenge conventional wisdom in everything that we do. So we ban the phrase “that will do”. Our clients become fans of our approach and the results we achieve on their behalf. That’s why people take time out of their busy lives to write to the Audiologist of the Year judges to nominate us.” This year the Hearing Healthcare Practice is turning its attention to the fascinating subject of…ear wax! Under the National Institute of Clinical Excellence guidelines, many GP practices are no longer providing wax removal and ear cleaning services, as syringing (especially in inexperienced hands) can cause trauma to the ear.

hygiene - actually, it's a clever mix of ingredients which have an important role in protecting and cleaning our ears. As well as trapping dirt and any creepy crawlies, wax acts as a skin lubricant providing antiinflammatory and antibacterial properties ensuring the ear is kept healthy. Ear wax naturally moves out of the ears. In fact, every time we talk, chew or yawn we are encouraging this process. Whilst many people remain unaffected, ear wax that doesn’t move as it should can be a real issue for some." The common symptoms of impacted ear wax are a blocked up feeling, drop in hearing, or tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness and discomfort. You can self-clean your outer ear only, gently wiping with a warm flannel but never poke around inside your ear canal or use cotton buds as you can cause damage. It can also compact wax – making it impossible to come out in the usual way. In addition, the ear ends up making more wax which exacerbates the problem! If you’re worried about your hearing, the award winning audiologists at Hearing Healthcare Practice offer a complimentary drop in service where they will check your ears to see if you need to an appointment with one of their aural hygienists.

As Robert Beiny highlights; “The best way to clean ears is to use micro suction which provides an instant, effective wax removal treatment. Unlike traditional ear syringing, which uses water, we use gentle micro suction under a 01582 767218 info@hearinghealthcare.co.uk microscope to remove wax. It’s much safer, www.hearinghealthcare.co.uk gentle on the ear, very effective and, in the majority of cases, provides instant relief and restores full hearing immediately. “We are often asked why we have ear wax. It is absolutely not caused as a result of poor

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NOW for some Music Classical Concert with Jennifer Pike 14th Jan 7.30pm St Nicholas Church Harpenden AL5 2TP World-renowned violinist Jennifer Pike returns to Harpenden to perform with the Hertfordshire Chamber Orchestra in support of local charity, the A-T Society. The programme includes Dvořák’s beautiful Violin Concerto in A minor and Beethoven’s much-loved 7th symphony, which Richard Wagner called ’the apotheosis of the Dance.’ £15, concs £12, child £5 01582 760733 www.atsociety.org.uk/hcoconcert

The French Connection 21st Jan 7.30pm St Peter's Church, St Albans AL1 3HG Mass for double choir - Frank Martin Messe solennelle - Jean Langlais O sacrum convivium! - Olivier Messiaen Nunc dimittis - Carl Rütti O magnum mysterium, from Quatre motets pour le temps de Noël - Francis Poulenc St Albans Chamber Choir is delighted to present an exploration of choral gems by 20th and 21st century French and Swiss composers. The performance will be conducted by the choir’s award-winning Musical Director, John Gibbons. £15, students £5

Love to Sing 21st Jan 10am - 1pm Kimpton Memorial Hall SG4 8RD Half day workshop presented by Kimpton Village Choir and led by Tim Armstrong-Taylor and Roly Taylor (AKA Victor and Albert who lead choirs in Hertfordshire and entertain audiences around the country) No musical experience necessary, all ages welcome. £10, concs £8 01582 834208 www.kvcworkshop.eventbrite.co.uk

Schools’ Music Night 25th Jan 7.30pm St Georges School, Sun Lane, Harpenden AL5 4TD

With St George’s, Sir John Lawes and Roundwood Park Schools in aid of the Mayor’s nominated charities; Youth Talk and The Tyler Brighter Future Fund. £5, child £2.50 from Harpenden Town Hall, Leyton Road

Amadeus Chamber Orchestra with Simon Thompson 28th Jan 7.30pm St Peter’s Church, St Albans AL1 3HG Sibelius: Pelléas and Mélisande, op.46 Crusell: Clarinet concerto no.2 in F minor, op.5 Beethoven: Symphony no.4 in Bb major, op.60 £15, concs £12, child £3 www.ticketsource.co.uk

Young Musicians Competition St Albans Cathedral Music Trust is inviting local pupils to take part in the sixth Young Musicians Competition offering students a unique performance opportunity along with the chance to win £100. To enter just upload a short sound file by 6th February. Entry is free and students can enter under a number of categories, including vocal ensemble, strings, brass, wind and soloist. Entrants will be short-listed and successful musicians invited to take part in the Finals Competition in the Cathedral on 26th February. www.stalbansymc.org.uk

Cantilena Ladies Choir This friendly, informal and fun choir are looking for new members for the January term. No audition required. They meet on Monday evenings (term time) from 8pm - 9.30pm at St Saviours Church Hall, Sandpit Lane, St Albans AL1 4DF Contact Charlotte 01727 837661 c_robinson50@hotmail.com

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01582 864138 / 01727 453019

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What’s on in January

until 8th Jan Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs The Alban Arena, 01727 844488 until 15th Jan Dick Whittington Milton Keynes Theatre MK9 3NZ www.atgtickets.com 2nd New Year’s Day Celebration Concert see page 6 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 see page 6 11th Calligraphy in the Archives: Writing with Quills Hertfordshire Archives, 6pm - 9pm www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/hals 12th Your Family History: How To Get Started Hertfordshire Archives, 2pm - 4pm, £10 www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/hals 13th Tracing Your British Criminal Ancestors Hertfordshire Archives, 10am - 4pm, £20 www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/hals 14th Organ Recital see page 6 Classical Concert with Jennifer Pike see page 36 17th Talk: Gorhambury Through the Ages by Viscountess Grimston, Harpenden Local History Society, Harpenden Public Halls, 8pm 19th - 21st & 26th - 28th The Odd Couple see page 22 20th - 28th Bull see page 22 21st Waterloo - The Best of Abba Tribute Show see page 22 The French Connection see page 36 Exhibition: Brambleton Model Railway Club 42 see page 25

21st Jan - 26th March British Wildlife Photography Awards see page 24 22nd Get Big Garden Birdwatch Ready Rye Meads Nature Reserve, Ware SG12 8JS 25th Mayors Charity Schools’ Music Night see page 36 25th - 29th Beauty & the Beast see page 22 26th The Classic Rock Show - The A-Z of Rock see page 22 28th All Star Superslam Wrestling see page 22 Amadeus Chamber Orchestra see page 36 Burns Night The Noke Hotel, St Albans, with Ceilidh band, please book 01727 731028, £42.50 Archaeology Apprentices Verulamium Museum, St Albans, simulated archaeology dig, ages 5 - 11, 2.15pm & 3.15pm, free 29th Luxury Wedding Show see back cover Epiphany & Candlemas Carol Service see page 6

Freephone: 0800 688 9576 07950 975848

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What’s on in February 44

2nd Talk - Bribery Commission 1851 Verulamium Museum, 01727 751810, 7 45pm, all profits to Renaissance: St Albans 3rd Harpenden Writers Meeting Quaker Meeting House, Southdown Road, all welcome, 10am - 12 noon www.harpendenwriters.com 4th Elgar – The Kingdom St Albans Cathedral, with Hertfordshire Chorus, 7.30pm 7th Floral Demonstration: Spring Fever by Vicki Traherne, Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, 2pm 7th & 8th Oaklands College Open Evenings see page 37 11th Live Music Chantel McGregor Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 7.30pm, £17 13th - 17th Half Term Trail & Crafts Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berks, 01442 851227, 10am - 3pm, £3 14th Harpenden Gardening Society Talk: Anne Godfrey-Daisy Roots Nursery, Roundwood Park School, non members £3, 8pm www.harpendengardeningsociety.org 16th - 18th Macbeth Memorial Hall, Wheathampstead, £10 www.wheathampsteaddramaticsociety.co.uk

17th Absolute Bowie ‘Celebrating the Life & Music of David Bowie’ Bedford Corn Exchange, 7.30pm, £15 www.thepadpresents.com 18th The Close-up Magic Show Hertford Theatre SG14 1PS, 8pm www.hertfordtheatre.com Film: Harpenden Town Mayor’s Charity Film Matinee - The Secret Life Of Pets Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 3pm, £5 child £2.50 Lunchtime Classical Guitar Concert St Albans Cathedral, 1pm, free Club Night Boombastic 90’s Featuring Livin Joy Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 8.30pm 19th Concert Grimethorpe Colliery Band Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 3pm, £20 The Kardashians Made Me Do It The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, Shazia Mirzas’ critically acclaimed nationwide tour Luxury Wedding Show see back cover 23rd Harpenden Evening Floral Group All Saints Church Hall, Station Road, 01582 761277, demonstration Peter Bodnar designs entitled 'The Grand Tour' all welcome, £5 24th Frankenstein The SandPit Theatre, St Albans, 01727 799565, storytelling, live music & puppetry, 7.30pm, £12/£10

DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd We care about your small jobs too! ● Electric and Power Showers Fitted ● Ball Valves and Overflows ● Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and Basins ● Repair/Renew Stopcocks and Taps ● Plumb in Washing Machines

and Dishwashers ● Repair Leaking Pipes ● Outside Taps

Dean Herrington 01727 764217 07830 159010 info@djmplumbing.co.uk www.djmplumbing.co.uk see our main advert on the inside back cover

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Index of Businesses

Accountants Hicks

Aerial Installations & Repairs Concorde Aerials

Art Classes Start Art!

Beauty Lavender & Stone Templespa

33 33

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

Blinds Harpenden Blinds Building Services Brockhall Building Services Open Plan Solutions Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop Ltd

5 45 43 27

Dance & Drama Penny Waterman School of Dance Stagecoach

Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

14 15 Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster Oven Wizards 17 Painters & Decorators CB Decorators Gary Rackley 40 M & M Decorating

Elderly Care Nannies4Grannies

Plasterer 23 A. Merson Plastering

Dog Sitting Wagging Tails

Electrician ACR Electrical Ltd & ACR Build 47 Fencing Verulam Fencing

Charity Hertfordshire Age UK The Harpenden Trust Traid

5 13 12

Gardening / Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd Garden Life Landscapes Greenshouse & Gardens

Chiropodist Kathy Witchard

Health & Fitness Rebecca Messer Pilates

Cleaning Domestique Merrivac

28 28

College Oaklands College

Computer Repairs Ken Hodson Conservatory Roof Solutions Nu-Look

12 9

Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice Indian Restaurant Shapla Insurance NFU Mutual Kindergarten / Nursery Artisans The Kinsbourne Common Nursery & Pre-School Redbourn House Day Nursery

Plumbers DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

5 31 31 29 29 29 41 45 & 47

Pond Maintenance 18 Women With Waders

Finance AMR Financial Management 13 Buy2LetCars.com 10 & 11 Garden Centres / Nurseries Burston Garden Centre Townsend Nursery

Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services Ltd

Locksmith Lock Around the Clock

21 19

Property Maintenance The 50plus

School St Columba’s College

Security Maximum Security

20 Shutters 39 19 Just Shutters 18 Slimming Vision Weight Consultancy 32 32 Stairlifts Age UK Stairlifts 41 35 Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd 21 31 Tyre Fitting Big D’s Tyres 26 4 Wedding Show Luxury Wedding Show Back Cover 14 Window Cleaner 28 3 Harpenden Window Cleaning Windows & Doors 15 Cloudy2Clear Kings Windows Sash Restorations Ltd

2 38 38

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Happy New Year to all our Clients

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

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