harpenden NOW May 15

harpenden

NOW May 2015

NOW at the Alban Arena

Marvellous May Events St Albans Charity Cycle Ride

Not Just Lip Service VE Day 70th Anniversary NOW at the Public Halls What’s on and lots more

WIN

HERTFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW Family Tickets see inside for details

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

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YOUR LOCAL PLANT CENTRE

Please call

01582 766728 Open 7 Days

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Spring & Summer Plants

Now Available

Welcome to May

You can’t help noticing the amazing blossom on the trees this year, and it seems to highlight what a beautiful county we live in. What better way to find out all it has to offer than by visiting the Herts County Show...it just so happens we have 3 family tickets to give away, just see page 4 to find out how you can be in with a chance of getting one.

This month there’s so much going on from walks, cycling and charity events, to garden shows and plant sales for gardening inspiration, so sit back and enjoy the read before you decide what you’ll be doing.

We’d like to thank Tom Mason again for allowing us to use his amazing wildlife photographs on the cover and on this page.

Tom’s made it to the final of Por El Planeta, a huge international competition, if you like his photography please vote for his image by 8th May at www.porelplaneta.photo.com Twitter: @TomMasonPhoto / www.tommasonphoto.com If you’d like to be in next months magazine please just get in touch…and don’t forget if you need a local business just pick up ‘harpenden NOW’ or read it every month online.

Happy Reading e call To advertis 3 Jane & Wendy 31 8 8 5 07983 www.theNOWmagazines.com eadline D wendy@theNOW magazines.com th May for June: 10

Beating the Bounds

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walk the St Albans boundary

NOW at the Public Halls

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Irish music, folk & films

NOW at The Alban Arena 10 music, science & comedy

NOW for a Walk & more 12 local walks for all

Cycling Galore 18 cycling for everyone

Trains, Engines, Cars & more 20 steaming good fun

Marvellous May 24 May festival, butterflies & ballet

NOW for some Music 28 music for all

NOW at the Cathedral 30 musics, tours & family fun

NOW at the Local Theatres 32 drama & dance

Not Just Lip Service 38 learn to lip read

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

THE FLOWER SCHOOL “Come and be creative with Flowers” Let florist Anita Lindeman teach you how to make stunning arrangements with beautiful flowers and foliage, in a calm relaxed atmosphere. Lots of great new designs.

AN INTRODUCTION TO FLORAL WIRING WORK Learn how to create buttonholes and corsages 14th May 7.30pm - 9.30pm The Flower School, St Albans SUMMER MASTERCLASS - STUNNING HAND TIED BOUQUET £50 Using roses, sweet peas and peonies 15th May10am - 12.30pm The Flower School PERFECT PEONIE WORKSHOPS Treat yourself to a workshop full of these stunning blooms!

7th June 10am - 12.30pm The Flower School 11th & 16th June 7.30pm - 9.30pm Childwickbury 'CHILL OUT' DAY AT CHILDWICKBURY £115 A full day at Childwickbury relaxing with flowers, make two fabulous designs.

Lunch and a glass of fizz included, bliss!

13th June 10am - 4pm

www.theflowerschoolstalbans.co.uk

07906 655641

anita.lindeman@ntlworld.com

To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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Beating the Bounds 10th May 2pm Kingsbury Watermill The traditional ceremony of Beating the Bounds dates back to medieval times and involves members of the community walking the 3 mile boundary of St Albans. During the ceremony, people will be invited to beat the ‘bounds’ with willow wands at four locations while the Mayor's Chaplain says a short prayer. The procession, led by the Mayor will follow the medieval boundary of the town as defined in 1327. The procession takes around 2½ hours.

The four locations are: The Pudding Stone, Kingsbury Mill Boundary mark by the ‘Jolly Sailor’ pub Keyfield Car Park, Old London Road River Ver, the bridge next to ‘Ye Olde Fighting Cocks’ pub, Verulamium Park This ceremony is thought to have started in the mid 13th century when the Tonman ditch was used to help define the boundary. In 1327 following a riot by the townspeople against the authority of the Abbot, twenty-four burgesses walked around the town to confirm a clear boundary.

This became known as the Beating the Bounds ceremony, which today is held to celebrate the medieval townspeople who fought to establish their rights as citizens of St Albans.

Why not go along and join in.

WIN one of 3

Family Tickets (2 adults & 2 children)

just text HCS & your name to 07983 588313

by 10th May

Save 20% BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE

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Ken Hodson Local Computer Hardware and Software Repairs Upgrades and Advice for Home and Business ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

No fix, no fee for all repairs - you have nothing to lose!

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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NOW at the Public Halls Sat 2nd May The Kilkenny’s £16.50 Renowned for their musicianship and vocal abilities, The Kilkennys have gained a reputation for revitalising traditional Irish music and adding their own touch of passion and youthful energy. Come along and join in the fun for a great evening of music and song!

Sun 3rd May Sharon Shannon £17.50 This accordionist from Ireland has achieved legendary status throughout the world and has made the much-maligned accordion 'cool' in her home country. Renowned for her collaborations through all musical genres from Country and Classical to Rap. Fri 22nd May Voodoo Room £15 The ultimate classic rock double-bill, a new and exciting classic power trio, paying tribute to 60’s rock pioneers Jimi Hendrix and Cream.

Thurs 4th June Peggy Seegar on Tour £18.50 On a UK tour to celebrate her 80th birthday, Peggy, one of the most authoritative voices in American and English folk will be accompanied by her sons, Calum and Neill MacColl, both fine musicians in their own right.

All performances start at 7.30pm

Harpenden Film Society Weds 13th May Gone Girl 8pm cert 18 Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike star in Oscar winning film based on best selling book, Nick Dunne's wife Amy goes missing and he’s a suspect. Is he as innocent as he says?

Thurs 28th May What We Did On Our Holiday 8pm cert 12A David Tennant, Rosamund Pike and Billy Connolly star in this gentle, sweet British comedy about family life.

Weds 10th June Big Eyes 8pm cert 12A A true story of the most outrageous art fraud. Margaret Keane was a painter but in the 50's and early 60's she did not think a woman painter would be accepted. So her husband Walter pretended he was the artist. All was fine until they divorced and she tried to assert her identity and ownership of the best selling images. Stars Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz.

Thurs 25th June The Theory of Everything 8pm cert 12A Oscar winning Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking and Felicity Jones as Jane, who he meets and falls in love with.

Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 1PD 01582 767525 www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

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The Festival is Back!

The 3rd annual St Albans International Film Festival is back with lots of exciting things planned. This year The Festival is joining up with the Odyssey Cinema, so come along and see one of the ‘Space’ themed events taking place. Keep an eye on the website for up to date information. www.stalbansfilmfestival.com

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NOW at the Alban Arena

The Counterfeit Stones 15th May 8pm £21 Billed as ‘The Most Famous Stones Band in England’ by Sir Mick Jagger himself.

Oliver!

28th April - 2nd May 7.30pm (Weds & Sat 2pm) £15.50 - £18.50 St Albans Operatic Society entertain with another high energy, high class production.

Georgie Fame and The Blue Flames 17th May 7.30pm £25, £22.50 A show not to be missed by this British music icon, The Blue Flames feature the cream of the UK’s musicians playing some of Georgie’s greatest hits.

Grumpy Old Women - Fifty Shades of Beige 3rd May 8pm £22.50 Award winning comedian Jenny Éclair, Susie Blake and Kate Robbins present a packed show featuring ‘learning the art of Grumpy Grooming’, the joys of large pants and a free nagging master class.

Sally Morgan - Psychic Sally on the Road 19th May 7.30pm £24.50 ‘Psychic to the Stars’ Sally has read for Katie Price, George Michael and the late Princess Diana.

We’ve Only Just Begun 6th May 7.30pm £18.50 A celebration of the Carpenters’ music. Now for the first time in over 30 years, the voice that melted a thousand hearts lives again through Toni Lee.

Dylan Moran ‘Off the Hook’.

20th & 21st May 8pm £25, £23 Star of Black Books, Shaun of the Dead and Calvary, Moran is back with his new stand up show.

Lee Nelson - Suited and Booted 7th May 7.30pm £20 See Lee live in his highly anticipated, all new nationwide tour.

Voca People 23rd May 7pm £22, £20 Full of energy and bursting with comedy, this international show features more than 80 hits including Madonna, Michael Jackson, Queen and even Mozart! No instruments, no sound effects – just eight incredible, talented singer-comedians.

Soul’d Out Soul Party Night 9th May 7.30pm - 12.30am £15 Come and party on down to your favourite tunes from the 60s and 70s. With a 13 piece band playing two sets, and top DJs spinning original vinyl.

Julian Lloyd Webber 24th May 7.30pm £20, £18.50 A brilliant evening of stories and music as Julian Lloyd Webber takes you through a historical and musical journey of his life and career.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - Classical Favourites 10th May 7.30pm £30, £27.50, £22.50 An evening of outstanding classical music from Mozart to Beethoven.

Ministry of Science 25th May 2pm & 6pm £14.50, £12.50 This is not your ordinary science show, it comes with a hovercraft, cannons, lots of bangs and a push bike that powers a blender. 100% educational, 200% anarchic, 300% explosive!

Octonauts - the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure 13th & 14th May 1pm & 4pm £15.50, £13.50, family £54 This new stage show brings the crew of The Octonauts to life on stage for the very first time!

Visit amazing underwater worlds full of adventure, with surprises around every corner.

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Milton Jones and The Temple of Daft 27th & 28th May 8pm £24 With his loud shirts and messed up hair, an evening in the company of an idiot….or is he? Only come if you like jokes, if not, you’ll be cross.

The Alban Arena, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk

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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

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NOW for a Walk and more

Visit Ashridge Ashridge Spring Trail Daily until 30th May 10am - 5pm £1 Collect your map and follow the trail.

Dawn Chorus Walk 2nd May 5am - 7am adult £15, child £10 Meet at Steps Hill car park Join the Ranger on this walk around the Steps Hill / Ivinghoe Beacon area, to experience the dawn chorus. Birds are now busy getting ready for the breeding season and the males are singing, especially early in the morning.

Discover Ashridge Walks 3rd & 24th May 2.30pm - 5pm £3 Discover highlights of the Estate on a 6 mile walk led by volunteer rangers. Dogs on leads welcome, wear good walking shoes.

Gentle Stroll 6th May 10.30am 12.30pm £3 Meet at Ling Ride car park. Hopefully see the beautiful bluebells of Dockey Wood and enjoy the local wildlife, animal tracks and deer sightings.

Bluebell Walks Drop-in events 1pm and 3pm Celebrate Spring with the spectacular bluebell walks led by our Ranger. Check flowering dates at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge Plant Fair 10th May 11am - 4pm Plants from volunteer growers and local nurseries.

Wild About Ashridge 27th & 29th May 10.30am - 3pm Get closer to nature with the National Trust team.

Drop-in activities (small charge may apply) on 27th at 10.30am and 2.30pm.

Tracker Packs Daily 30th May - 6th September 10am - 4pm Discover wildlife and complete some of the "50 things to do before you're 11¾". Just pick up your pack, hunt for bugs, go bird watching, find your way with a map and compass or discover what’s in a pond. £5 deposit 01442 851227 Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berkhamsted, HP4 1LT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate

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Hertfordshire Year of Walking... ...celebrates the fantastic walking opportunities our county has to offer. The aim is to inspire and motivate people to walk more, whether for exercise, to explore the countryside or simply to get from A to B. Hertfordshire boasts 3,200 km of Rights of Way, 42 open spaces with Green Flag status, and miles of accessible disused railway lines and towpaths. To find out more visit www.hertsdirect.org/walking where you can also pledge to walk more, learn about walking opportunities across the county and receive tips to increase the amount of walking you do. For full details visit www.hertsdirect.org/walksandmore or contact Countryside Management Services on 01992 588433.

50 Things to do Walk 3rd May 2pm - 3.30pm Join the Rangers for a family walk. Complete some of the '50 things to do before you're 11¾". on the way and collect stickers and scrapbooks when you get back. No booking is needed.

Chilterns Gateway Centre, Dunstable Downs, LU6 2GY www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Hertfordshire Health Walks Enjoy the countryside and local green spaces with these free walks led by qualified volunteer leaders.

Highfield Park Mondays 9.30am & Tuesdays 1.30pm Charters Health Club Car Park, Hill End Lane AL4 0DB Wheathampstead Tuesdays 10.30am East Lane public car park behind The Bull, AL4 8BL Hatching Green Thursdays 10.30am Redbourn Lane, Harpenden AL5 2JP on road parking only Greenwood Park Fridays 2pm Greenwood Park Community Centre, Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green, St Albans AL2 3HW The walks vary from easy to challenging.

Wear suitable shoes.

01992 588433 www.hertfordshirehealthwalks.org

Walk the Line The Abbey Line is a new walking trail between Watford and St Albans allowing you to enjoy short walks between stations or walk the full 9 miles, and return by train (check train times before setting off). Download the leaflet at www.abbeyline.org or pick one up at the library.

Or join the free guided walk on Mon 25th May, meet at Bricket Wood Station, Park Street at 10.30am, catch the train and then enjoy a 3 mile walk while learning about the history of the area. www.hertsdirect.org/walkandmore 01992 588433

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Enhance your Garden with Russell Dickson With more than 35 years of landscape experience working throughout the UK, I am now based in Hertfordshire and offer a landscape and construction service to suit any garden.

I specialise in stonework. However I am skilled in all aspects of design and have worked on projects as varied as a simple path, an exotic duck house, or a complex terrace with balustrading and statues.

When I first visit a client, I find out what their priorities are. The finished garden needs to be exactly what they want. I focus on enhancing the existing garden and consider the practical (for example, whether it has to be safe for children, manageable for someone who is disabled, or low maintenance for the unenthusiastic gardener!) as well as the aesthetic and visually appealing.

I encourage input from my clients throughout the process. I take precise measurements and then prepare a detailed drawing, obviously taking into consideration the client’s budget. I am sometimes able to use existing materials, which helps to keep the cost down.

“Russell’s transformation of my patio is absolutely delightful; the best thing I have ever spent money on.

I look at it every morning and wonder why I didn’t do it years ago!” Gillian Cope, Mill Hill, London

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For a full consultation or to just chat through your thoughts and ideas, please call me on 01438 821384 / 07833 591340

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Please book your place www.woodlandyoga.wordpress.com

NOW at Rye Meads Dawn Chorus Walk Sun 3rd May 4.30am - 6.30am To celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day. An early morning walk around the reserve as it gets light to hear the Dawn Chorus as day breaks. Followed by a light breakfast in the Visitor Centre of croissants, juice and hot drinks.

Big Wild Stock-take Sat 30th May All day event The team will be taking stock of the wildlife that makes its’ home at Rye Meads, and they need YOUR help! Take part in pond dipping, minibeast hunting, mammal spotting, butterfly counting, tree bashing, birdwatching and much more. It’s very important to carry out scientific studies like this and the idea is to see how many species they can find there!

Go along and have a go!

Rye Meads Nature Reserve, Rye Road Stanstead Abbotts, Herts SG12 8JS www.rspb.org.uk

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andrew@arlandscapes.co.uk

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A fun event, organised by The Rotary Clubs of St Albans, suitable for everyone from families to cycling fanatics, starting and finishing at Oaklands College Campus, Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL4 0JA 10, 20, 30, and 40-mile routes take you through beautiful Hertfordshire countryside.

Fully-marshalled routes, mainly on quiet country lanes.

Free T-shirt, medal and certificate guaranteed for all pre-registered riders completing the course.

Drinks and refreshments at regular checkpoints and at the finish.

Raise money for the sponsored charities and be entered in the free draw to win a great prize. www.saccr.co.uk

Hertfordshire Year of Cycling which runs through to late summer aims to give a massive boost to cycling and show how you can integrate it into your life. Working with schools, beginner cyclists, clubs and elite racers the aim is to make Hertfordshire a place where cycling is better provided for across all disciplines and user groups.

Hertfordshire has a selection of cycling clubs, catering for all abilities. The Year of Cycling continues to have a fantastic range of events and cycling promotions so be sure to get involved and see how you can use a bike to improve your quality of life.

Local events 20th & 21st June - The Friends Life Women’s Tour stages 4 & 5, Waltham Cross to Stevenage and Marlow to Hemel Hempstead.

28th June - Cycling Fashion Show, The Galleria, Hatfield 5th July - Fete du Velo, Redbourn Useful websites www.verulamcc.org.uk www.welwynwheelers.org.uk www.stacc.org.uk www.fortypluscc.co.uk www.womenstour.co.uk

Ladies Only Celebrate Global Women's Cycle Day on 10th May with a Sunday afternoon ride from Harpenden to Redbourn stopping for coffee at the Hub. Meet at 2pm at Harpenden Railway Station (by the cycle racks).

Start Bike Week in style on 13th June with a Saturday morning ride. Meet at 9.30am at Morrisons supermarket, Hatfield Road, St Albans (by the cycle stands).

Please check your bike is roadworthy, bring some money for the coffee stop and wear appropriate clothing for the British weather!

More information at www.southertsctc.org.uk

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St Albans Tea Rides Electric Bike Tours Sundays 3rd 10th 17th 24th & 31st May 7th 14th 21st & 28th June Cycling with tea and cake!

The electric bike is a great way to explore the great outdoors.

The rides visit many locations including Verulamium Park, Gorhambury, Nomansland and Sherrardspark Wood, before returning along the Ayot Greenway to the Mill.

Starting point: Mill Green Mill, Mill Green Lane, Hatfield AL9 5PD Time: 10.30am - 2.30pm Cost: £35 per person or £50 per couple including a cream tea at Mill Green Mill and bike and safety equipment hire.

To reserve your place call 01442 927522 or visit www.electricbiketours.co.uk

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Brambleton Model Railway Club Open Day 16th May 2pm - 5pm An opportunity for the Club to show off to the public what it’s all about. It’s a chance to run the railway as it was originally intended, while providing the public with a chance to see a great variety of rolling stock (O gauge circuit) and live steam narrow gauge (16 mm).

The grounds are adjacent to Highfield Oval, Ambrose Lane, Harpenden.

Adult £2, child £1.50 www.brambleton.co.uk

St Albans Steam and Country Show 30th & 31st May 10am Come and enjoy a great day's entertainment with demonstrations showing a working sawbench, threshing machine, stone crusher and other machinery from days gone by.

These steaming monsters provide both entertainment and education for adults and children alike, away from the high-tec world we now live in. Many of the older generation will remember steam rollers at work, when before the last world war steam wagons regularly pounded through St Albans carrying long distance loads.

Steam threshing was carried out at local farms and steam tractors carried stone, farm produce and even house contents within the area. Some of these machines are now 100 years old, but have been rebuilt many times and will last forever!

Oaklands College Hatfield Road, St Albans AL4 0JA www.hertssteam.org

Steam Fair 17th May 10am - 4pm Free Bring the family and enjoy the magnificent working steam engine and stationary engines in all their glory. In addition to the visiting engines, two of the museum’s own historic engines, lovingly restored and cared for by volunteers, will be on display.

Stockwood Discovery Centre, Luton www.lutonculture.com

NOW at Knebworth House Hertfordshire Garden Show 2nd - 4th May A fantastic event for the May Bank Holiday weekend with a wide variety of exhibitors including some of the best nurseries and specialists from across the region. Talk to the growers and choose from a huge range of top quality plants. There are also accessories and decorative items for your garden. It’s a great way to get ready for the new season, with plenty of fresh ideas for inspiration.

Knebworth Festival of Transport 24th & 25th May A fantastic weekend of motors and motoring Classic cars and bikes, Minis and VW’s, Kit cars and Custom cars, Sports and American cars.

A great day out for all the family. www.knebworthhouse.com

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Stuff you don't need?

Freegle it!

Don’t throw it away, give it away on Freegle!

You might not need that old sofa or wheelbarrow anymore, but there might be someone just round the corner who does. Or if there’s something you’d like, someone nearby might have one. Lurking in sheds, attics and cupboards are items that are too good to throw away, but are not loved or needed anymore.

Freegle can help!

To join just visit www.ilovefreegle.org UK registered charity no 297489

NOW at Hatfield House Living Crafts

7th - 10th May 10am - 5.30pm An enjoyable and creative day out, this leading UK craft experience includes ‘Have a go’ workshops, art lectures, spectacular live craft demonstrations, a sculpture school and entertainment, and features over 300 acclaimed British designer-makers.

Garden Show

www.hatfield-house.co.uk/events

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30th & 31st May 10am - 5pm adult £10, concs £9 This year’s Garden Show includes: ♦ Specialist nurseries, garden clubs and societies, garden machinery and equipment, garden design, sheds and structures and seeds. ♦ Capel Manor gardening experts will run 3 ‘Garden Question Time’ sessions daily. ♦ Peter Oakenful, local environmentalist, speaking on ‘Gardening for Wildlife’. ♦ ‘Drop in floral’ decoration workshops. ♦ Mature gardens, woodland garden and tree trail. ♦ Presentations on gardening for the environment and ecological considerations.

Domestic Appliance Repairs

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Leigh Hibon daytime 07841 652496 evening 01582 842764 www.ldhdomesticappliancesrepairs.co.uk 90 Trowley Hill Road, Flamstead AL3

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

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Marvellous May

Markyate Plant Sale

Luton Hoo The five-acre, octagonal Luton Hoo Walled Garden was designed by Lancelot “Capability” Brown for John Stuart, 3rd Earl of Bute in 1763.

Successive owners adapted the garden to match the changing fashions. Heated glasshouses were built by the Leigh family in the 19th century for the production of fruit and flowers, a few of which still survive today. The largest surviving glasshouse, built for Sir Julius and Lady Wernher c1911, is evidence of the extravagance of the Edwardian period.

The garden fell into decline in the1980s but is now being restored, largely by an enthusiastic team of volunteers.

The Walled Garden is open on Wednesdays from 6th May - 30th September, 11am - 3pm. £5 per person. Free tours at 11.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Refreshments, fruit, vegetables and honey are available to buy. www.lutonhooestate.co.uk/walled-garden

23rd May 10am 64 High Street, Markyate, AL3 8HZ Come along to Markyate’s Party of the Year The perfect event for those who love their gardens and The Hospice of St Francis!

Held in a delightful, private garden in the middle of the village, you couldn't wish for a better venue in which to select your summer bedding plants, perennials and the ever popular fruit and vegetable plants.

Hanging baskets can be pre-ordered until 10th May and picked up in bloom on the day of the sale. Your own tubs, containers and baskets can also be refilled.

Contact Ian Bradley 01582 943133 ie.bradley@talktalk.net

All the Fun of the Festival 1st - 4th May The 51st Kimpton May Festival starts on Friday 1st May with an opening night Art Show and exclusive Wine Tasting evening. The Saturday street procession is always a highlight, with themed floats ending in the crowning of the 2015 May Queen. The evenings are packed with ‘Kimpton Entertains’, ‘Brains of Kimpton’ and the popular ‘Music Night’.

Children’s activities include fairground rides, a football tournament, maypole dancing, and an array of entertaining arena events on Saturday. With Jazz bands, 10k fun-run, craft fair, BBQ’s, charity auction and Morris dancers - it promises to be back to back fun and entertainment throughout the long weekend with something for everyone. Come along and have some fun! www.kimptonmayfestival.co.uk

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Tring Museum Merfolks Fingerprints 14th May 11am & 2.30pm Use your fingers to design a mysterious mermaid or merman, under 5’s, £2 What Monsters Lie Ahead? 26th May 10.15am, 10.45am, 11.15am, 2.30pm & 3pm Discover strange specimens and monstrous myths in this hands-on activity, all ages, £2 Gruffalo Exploration 27th May 10.15am & 2pm Explore the Gruffalo story and become part of it, make your own mask, and build a den, all ages, £4, please book Snakes Alive with Amey Zoo 28th May 10.30am & 11.30am Get up close to some real live snakes and discover how incredible they are, ages 6+. £5, please book Tring Natural History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring www.nhm.ac.uk/tring

The Elves and the Shoemaker 1st May 12 noon & 2pm Northern Ballet presents their latest ballet for children. A poor and kind-hearted shoemaker receives some much-needed help when his last piece of leather is transformed into the most magnificent pair of shoes overnight. He discovers that not only are the shoes beautiful; they are also magical. Who is the mysterious maker of these marvellous shoes? Retelling the famous Brothers Grimm story, this is the perfect opportunity to introduce your little ones to live ballet, music and theatre.

Milton Keynes Theatre MK9 3NZ www.atgtickets.com

New Butterfly House Comes to Whipsnade

10am - 12 noon For ages 4 - 10 years £10 per child, children must be accompanied by an adult www.lutonhooestate.co.uk 01582 721443

Luton Hoo Walled Garden

Opening on 23rd May, this will be home to hundreds of colourful butterflies of all shapes and sizes.

Immerse yourself in their tropical environment, get up-close to them and learn about their life cycle.

It’s not all about butterflies though as you might even come tooth-to-tooth with our dwarf crocodiles!

Tree Fu Tom will be at the Zoo from 23rd - 25th May. Complete his magical trail through the Butterfly House and say hello as he makes appearances throughout the day.

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Dunstable, Beds LU6 2LF www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo

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Soil is Life!

Why not come down to Rothamsted Research on 17th May between 10am - 5pm and find out a bit more about this amazing place on our doorstep. Collect your guide detailing the exhibits and activities and enjoy this Research Exhibition Day. All activities are free and there’s no need to book.

Here’s a selection of what you can see and do on the day: Journey to the Centre of the Earth An interactive display showing the first 23 cm of life underground ‘Toss the Sod’ Board Game Take part and learn about the main soil types in the UK Let’s get Physical An interactive display of soil particle sizes in settling columns of water The Soil Spectrum An interactive display of what makes soils different Pop-up Soil Lab Get the pH of your garden/allotment soil tested Soil Spectacles Experience the sight of soil beyond the naked eye The Soil Spectrum Take part in hands-on demonstrations of soil grain size, soil pH and soil nutrient status Rothamsted Research, Harpenden AL5 2JQ www.rothamsted.ac.uk/events/soil-life-soil-research-day

23rd May 10am - 4pm Unique quality affordable items Many stallholders offer courses for anyone interested in a new hobby High Street Methodist Church Hall, Entrance 50p

01442 737790

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For more information please contact Amanda 01582 715622 07973 831221 beautifulantiques@btinternet.com

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Acis and Galatea

NOW for some Music St Albans Organ Theatre 9th May 7.30pm Christian Cartwright plays music from the 50's & 60's Christian, Assistant Organist at the 'Pipes in the Peaks' Derbyshire is one of the younger generation of organists who is interested in playing these historic instruments and also in their intricate restoration. With his brother, Christopher, he’s currently renovating a Christie Theatre organ. He has played a variety of British and American Theatre organs, including the 74+ and the 80 rank Wurlitzers, as well as a vintage Compton 357 Melotone and the Wurlitzer organ at Burton Town Hall.

Adult £10, under 11’s £5

16th May 8pm £15 St Albans Chamber Opera present a semi staged production of Handel's delightful opera with soloists Oliver Martin-Smith, Emily Yarrow, Peter Martin and Des Turner.

St John’s Church, Harpenden

Musical Sunday Afternoons 10th May & 14th June 2.15pm - 4.30pm The Organ Theatre will be open on the 2nd Sunday of each month with a live, continuous musical performance of its various instruments.

History The theatre has a fascinating collection of unique selfplaying musical instruments and is one of the top theatre organ concert venues in the UK. The collection was owned by local resident, Charles Hart, who wanted the collection to be available to the public, and so the charitable trust was set up after his death. His tradition of Sunday opening still continues so that all ages can enjoy these unique instruments. Adult £5.50, concs £4 / £2.50 St Albans Organ Theatre, Camp Road, St Albans 03003 65 65 65 www.st albans organtheatre.org.uk

Chaconne Brass 16th May 7.45pm One of Britain’s most versatile ensembles, their repertoire spans from Gershwin to Miles Davis, from acoustic to electroaccoustic and beyond.

The programme includes: Suppé - Overture: Light Cavalry Edward Longstaff Symphony for Brass (2004) J S Bach, arr. Mitchell Siciliano Don Gillis - Just a Closer Walk With Thee Adult £16, concs £5 Hawthorne Theatre, WGC 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

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Harmoniemusik 16th May 7.30pm performed by Amadeus Chamber Orchestra.

Cimarosa: Concerto for flute and oboe Copland: Appalachian Spring Beethoven: Quintet for piano and winds Britten: Sinfonietta Grainger: Shepherd's Hey Adult £13, concs £11, child £3 St Saviour's Church, Sandpit Lane, St Albans www.amadeuschamberorchestra.co.uk

Composers to the Tudor Monarchs 16th May 7.30pm performed by Carillon Chamber Choir William Byrd Mass for four Voices - Sing joyfully Psallite Domino / Thomas Tallis O nata Lux - If ye love me - Sancte Deus / Philip van Wilder Aspice Domine - Deo Gratias Adult £14, concs £13 01582 763774 St Peter’s Church, St Albans AL1 3HG

£10 B&Q voucher given

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NOW at the Cathedral Tower Tours Sat 2nd & 30th May & 27th June 10am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm Sun 21st June 2pm, 3.15pm, 4.30pm This tour takes you to the top of the Norman Bell Tower via the north transept gallery, the ringing and bell chambers, before you climb onto the roof of the tower, £8, please book.

More to Explore: Conversations Sun 3rd May 3pm Listen to a Cathedral Guide as they share their six favourite parts of the building, and six of their least favourite! Discuss the parts of the Cathedral that you most love, and those you enjoy less so, in what promises to be a lively, fun discussion, free.

St Albans Choral Society and Orchestra Nova Sat 9th May 7.30pm 70th anniversary concert with works

by Boyce, Handel & Haydn.

Tickets from £10 Choral Eucharist for Ascension Day Thurs 14th May 8pm Celebrating Christ's ascension to heaven.

St Albans International Organ Festival Recital Sat 16th May 5.30pm Simon Thomas Jacobs, UK / USA. free.

Lecture: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Guardianship of Culture Tues 19th May 7.30pm Discussing the cultural subtext to Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s writing, £5 alo@stalbanscathedral.org 01727 890205

Solemn Evensong for Pentecost Sun 24th May 6.30pm Marking the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church.

Family Discovery Morning: Telling the Whole Story Thurs 28th May 10am - 12.30pm The Cathedral exists because of two very important Romans named Alban and Amphibalus - but who were they? Find out what part they play in the story of the Cathedral. Craft session and activities included. Free, ages 3-11.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Trinity Sunday Choral Eucharist Sun 31st May 11.15am Taizé Service Sun 31st May 6.30pm An evening service with instrumental music, a meditation and singing.

Lunchtime Organ Recital Weds 20th May 12.30pm Andrew Lucas, St Albans Cathedral’s Master of the Music, free.

Sounds Around the Abbey Weds 20th – Fri 22nd May 8pm Rennie Grove Hospice Care present 3 evenings of varied musical and vocal entertainment in conjunction with local Rock Choirs, to mark 30 years of Caring at Rennie Grove. Tickets from £20.

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www.stalbanscathedral.org 01727 890290

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NOW at the local theatres

Trestle Arts Base A Whisper in the Heart by Tom McNab 6th May 7.30pm £12 In support of Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

The play is set in a grubby Valencia hotel in 1955, where two of the greatest film directors of modern times, Leni Riefenstahl and Orson Welles, come together to make a low budget documentary for the BBC. Welles has been rejected by Hollywood, and Riefenstahl has been persecuted since the War because of her association with Hitler and the Nazi party.

Both are virtually penniless and face an uncertain future. With the help of BBC producer Carruthers, they try to come to terms with what will face them in an uncertain future.

Every Brilliant Thing 28th May 7.30pm adult £12 concs £10

by Paines Plough and Pentabus Theatre Co You’re six years old. Mum’s in hospital. Dad says she’s ‘done something stupid’. She finds it hard to be happy. So you start to make a list of everything that’s brilliant about the world.

Ice Cream, Kung Fu Movies, Burning Things, Laughing so hard you shoot milk out your nose, Construction Cranes, Me. You leave it on her pillow. You know she’s read it because she’s corrected your spelling.

Soon, the list will take on a life of its own. A new play about depression and the lengths we go to for those we love. Based on true and untrue stories.

Trestle Arts Base St Albans AL4 0JQ www.trestle.org.uk 01727 850950

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Abbey Theatre Lights, Camera, Action St Albans Film Festival 2nd May 2.30 - 4.30pm Drop-in workshop by arts education company Experimakers inviting you to make your own space-themed ‘zoetrope’, a brilliant Victorian animation toy that brings hand-drawn animations to life. Allowing you to create your own mini film sequence, before taking your toy home with you.

All ages.

Noises Off by Michael Frayn Company of Ten 8th & 9th & 12th - 16th May 8pm 10th May 2.30pm Michael Frayn’s comic genius at its best, this hilarious romp centres on a play within a play. Not only are you watching a farce called Nothing On, complete with scantily clad women and trouserdropping men, but you’re also watching the cast’s backstage antics. The resulting chaos will have you helpless with laughter.

7th May : Charity Preview Night for Keech Hospice Care & Macmillan Cancer Support tickets from 07824 599413 DanceMania 2015 Street Dance Productions 23rd May 7pm An action-packed evening of street dance, featuring local amateur talent and top street dance crews. From hiphop, breakdance and bodypop to street jazz. www.dancemaniashow.com / 07940 715702.

Abbey Theatre, Westminster Lodge, St Albans 01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

Maltings Arts Theatre Playhouse Creatures

by April de Angelis 7th - 10th May 8pm £10 / £7.50 A glimpse into the lives of the first actresses to appear on the English stage. It’s 1669, and after 17 years of Puritan suppression under Cromwell, Charles II brings his glittering court from France and reopens the theatres, insisting that the female roles are to be played by women. Like page three girls they strut their stuff but are employable only while their looks last. Comic extracts from plays of the period are contrasted with frantic dressing room scenes revealing the dramatic skills and determination of these remarkable women.

Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk 0333 666 3366

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Do Something Charitable Grove House Spring Ball

Hospice of St Francis Events Garden Party 31st May 1-5pm Ashridge House, Tring HP4 1NS Come for a cream tea or Pimms, browse the stalls, enjoy the children’s entertainment and music or take a stroll around the stunning gardens. All money raised from the entrance fee of £6 goes towards Hospice care.

Harpenden Golf Day 10th June Are you a keen golfer? If so come and play on our golf day at Harpenden Golf Course. The day follows a Stableford competition format and includes dinner and charity auction.

Glow and Walk 27th June 9pm Dig out your best neon accessories and glow for it at our Midnight ‘Glow’ Walk. With a choice of 5 or 10 mile walks starting at Hemel Hempstead School, come and walk with friends, or in memory of someone special. Register online for £20 at www.stfrancis.org.uk/midnightwalk. Walkers are asked to raise what they can to support the work of the Hospice. fundraising@stfrancis.org.uk www.stfrancis.org.uk 01442 869555

9th May 7pm for 8pm An evening of fine dining followed by live music to dance the night away. An auction and raffle will also be held on the night.

Money raised at this event will go to Grove House, part of Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, Harpenden 01727 731028

Ashridge Trail Half Marathon 7th June The Marathon returns for its third year to help raise funds for Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

This 13 mile off-road sponsored event starts and finishes in front of the stunning Ashridge House near Berkhamsted and takes you on a challenging course through the mature woodland of the beautiful Estate. Ruth Proudfoot, Events Fundraising Manager at Rennie Grove, says: “This has proved to be a really popular event that sold out last year, so we encourage people to register early to guarantee their place.”

Open to runners 16 and over, starts at 9am.

Registration costs £25 and includes a TShirt, water en route and use of a timing chip.

To register visit www.renniegrove.org/ ashridgetrail or call 01442 820740. www.renniegrove.org

This annual event organised by parents from Beech Hyde Primary School to raise money for the school takes place on Sunday 17th May, starting and ending at Marford Playing Fields, Wheathampstead.

The 10K race starts at 11.15am and is chip-timed. It is a challenging off-road course, with outstanding scenery and a friendly village setting this is a popular run with all levels of runners. Entries are accepted in advance only.

The 2K Family Fun Run starts at 10.15am. This is an off road, circular run on good footpaths and the local playing field. It’s ideal for families or a pre-10K warm up, suitable for both runners and walkers of all ages.

On the day late entries for the 2K is open 9am - 9.50am.

The whole morning rounds off with a BBQ, café, bouncy castles and other fun for the children. It makes a really great morning out with the family, so book your place and join in the fun. www.wheathampstead10k.co.uk

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Summer Sale!

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Beltane Summer Festival 4th May 10am - 5pm Celtic Harmony Camp, Brickendon, Hertford, SG13 8NY Celebrate the start of summer with a fun-packed day for all the family with lots of hands-on activities for the kids.

Enjoy the Exciting Workshops, Storytelling, Drumming, Fire Breathing, Lovespoon Carving, Owl Displays, Longbow Archery, Pottery Workshops and much more. Adult / child ÂŁ10, under 2s free. www.celticharmony.org

ART CLASSES FOR KIDS!

Holiday Workshops and Term Time Classes in ST ALBANS

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www.fineart4kids.com

07949 293463

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Not Just Lip Service Do you find it difficult sometimes to follow conversation when you’re in a group?

had hearing loss for a very long time, nearly always have developed the skill naturally.

Perhaps you have noticed when dining with friends in a noisy restaurant that it is difficult to hear even though you wear hearing technology?

As part of our commitment to provide our patients with access to additional opportunities to socialise with like-minded individuals, the Hearing Healthcare Practice are delighted to announce that we have teamed up with Molly Berry a lip reading tutor who also wears a cochlear implant to launch a brand new Lip-Reading class here at the Hearing Healthcare Practice.

Lip reading can help you to make the most of your hearing.

Having a hearing loss can make speech sound quieter, distorted or both! Learning to Lip-Read is a skill which in conjunction with your hearing technology will help improve how much you understand when people speak to you.

Many people leave developing the skill of lip reading too late and think of it as a last resort. It is far from that – lip reading is an essential skill for everyone no matter the degree of hearing loss.

With a few key lip reading skills, situations that previously have been challenging become far less stressful and allow you to participate more fully.

Lip reading is seeing the sound of speech – it is not like reading a book – you do not see every word. In fact, only about 30% of words have some sort of shape on the lips. It is not just about reading lips, it is about appreciating the context of a conversation and reading body language and then putting all three elements together to form the full picture. It is quite an art. People that have

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As well as improving your Lip-Reading skills, you will learn about useful communication methods, local support services and the latest developments in listening technology.

Our Lip-Reading Classes are designed to be relaxed and fun and you’ll also gain support from people who share similar experiences.

Learning to Lip-Read takes time, patience and understanding, but the rewards are immense, and while you learn you are improving your confidence, lessening your feelings of isolation, and strengthening your communication ability.

The 10 week Introductory Course takes place on Tuesday evenings throughout May and June from 6.30 - 8.30pm and costs just £75 for 10 sessions.

Numbers are limited, so if you’re interested in attending the course please call us to book your place on; 01582 767218 or call in and see us at the practice.

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FOOT CARE I provide foot care in the comfort of your own home I am qualified to treat Corns Verrucae Callouses Fungal Nails Cracked Heels Ingrowing Nails Athlete’s Foot Together with Nail Clipping and Filing Experienced in dealing with the Elderly and Dementia sufferers 01582 761390 / 07806 409723 Cherry Aquitaine MCFHP, MAFHP, Foot Health Practitioner

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MIND-BODY BALANCE The perfect support for mind-body health and vitality Reiki Courses, Treatment and Consultations in Harpenden Flexible Monthly Teaching of Reiki I II and III

Shown to be Effective in

INDUCING

EASING PAIN CALMING ANXIETY REDUCING STRESS DEEP RELAXATION

Trish Webb BA Hons Sociology MGHT FAETC

Reiki Master 07792 133443 trishhealthbiz@gmail.com

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What’s on in May

from 1st May Splash Park Opens Verulamium Park until 17th May Exhibition: Ancient Egypt Lives for Ever St Albans Museum 1st - 3rd St Albans Film Festival see page 22 1st - 4th KImpton May Festival see page 24 2nd - 4th Hertfordshire Garden Show see page 20 4th May Day Celebrations British Schools Museum, 01462 420144, maypole & country dancing, Offley Morris Men, 10.30am, free www.hitchinbritishschools.co.uk Celtic Harmony Camp see page 36 5th Demonstration: New Beginnings Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, 2pm, all welcome 7th Lee Nelson - Suited & Booted see page 10 Exclusive Shopping Evening LK Bennett, Christopher Place, St Albans, 01727 731000, up to 10% discount off, 10% of sales on the night donated to IRGH, 6 - 8pm, £10 7th - 10th Living Crafts see page 22 9th The Grand Vintage Fair Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street, St Albans, retro relics & kitsch collectibles, vintage fashions & accessories, upcycled furniture, art, glass & china,10am - 4pm X:Site High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden, 07985 960703, for school years 3-6, have fun while learning about God, 6-8pm, £1 St Albans Choral Society 70th Anniversary Concert see page 30 Orchestral Colours St Saviour’s Church, St Albans, 01727 852768, St Albans Symphony Orchestra Concert, 7.30pm, £14, £10, £5, £1 10th Beating the Bounds see page 4 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra see page 10 12th Talk: ‘Companion Planting’ Andrew Sankey, Garden Designer & Nurseryman, 8pm Roundwood Park School, Harpenden, £3 www.harpendengardeningsociety.org 13th & 14th Octonauts - the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure see page 10 14th Museums at Night British Schools Museum, Hitchin, 01462 420144, go behind the scenes & 42explore the collections, age 18+, 7pm - 9pm, free

15th The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show Bedford Corn Exchange, 01234 718112, £13 in advance, 9pm - 2am www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk 16th Brambleton Model Railway Club Open Day see page 20 Carillon Chamber Choir St Peters Church, St Albans, 01582 763774, 7.30pm, £14, concs £13 17th Soil is Life see page 26 Wheathampstead 10k see page 34 Steam Fair see page 20 Super Hero 5k see page 36 St Albans Charity Cycle Ride see page 18 18th Annual Meeting of the Council Park Hall, Leyton Road, all welcome, 7.30pm 20th Spring into Summer at Burstons see page 2 20th - 22nd Sounds Around The Abbey see page 30 23rd Markyate Village Plant Sale see page 24 Voca People see page 10 Harpenden Art, Craft & Antiques Market see page 26 Helicopter Day with adventure 001, experience the majesty of Hatfield House, from inside, outside, & above! www.adventure001.com 23rd & 24th Herts County Show see page 4 24th Julian Lloyd Webber see page 10 24th & 25th Knebworth Festival of Transport see page 20 25th - 29th Roller Skating RollerCity, WGC, please book, all ages, 1pm & 3pm, from £6.50 www.rollercity.co.uk 26th Talk: ‘The Dirty Diggers’ by Richard White of South Harpenden Allotment Society, Harpenden Public Halls, Harpenden Local History Society, 8pm Drop-in Roman Badge Making Verulamium Museum, St Albans, ages 3-11 years, 2- 4pm £1 26th - 30th The Sound of Music Milton Keynes Theatre www.atgtickets.com 27th & 28th Milton Jones & The Temple of Daft see page 10 30th Walkies at Heartwood Forest see page 16 30th & 31st St Albans Steam & Country Show see page 20 Garden Show see page 22

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What’s on in June 44

5th St Columba’s College Senior School Open Working Day see page 37 Folk at the Maltings Arts Theatre St Albans, 0844 870 0887, 8pm, adult £10, concs £8, child £6 5th & 6th / 9th - 13th: 8pm / 7th: 2.30pm The Shawl & Duck Variation Abbey Theatre, St Albans, 01727 857861, 2 rarely performed one-act masterpieces by David Mamet 6th Harpenden Carnival Harpenden Common, this year includes Discovery Day, Art on the Common & the return of the carnival procession: 12 noon, events: 12.30pm - 6pm, free Dark Blues Summer Party Herts County Show Ground, 8pm - 1am, £25 www.darkblues.co.uk 6th & 7th Brick Traders Inn on the Park, Verulamium Park, St Albans, buy, sell & create Lego, 10 - 5pm 7th Talk: Iron Age Verulamium Museum, free, 3pm - 3.30pm Coin Detectives Family Event Verulamium Museum, Can you detect all the hidden coins lurking in the Museum? Can you make a coin necklace? 2pm – 5pm, free Ashridge Trail Half Marathon see page 34 10th Harpenden Golf Day see page 34 12th & 14th Magna Carta 800th events taking place in a number of venues including Victorian Courtroom & St Albans Cathedral 13th School Fete St Georges School, Sun Lane, Harpenden, 12 - 4pm Spring Fair High Street Methodist Church Hall, 10am - 3pm, gifts, plants, cakes, bag a bargain & support the Children's Society Prison Education on Trial see page 46 14th Summer Fayre Oaklands College, Hatfield Road, fashion show, equestrian demonstrations, crafts, sports competitions & more, 11 - 5pm, free St Albans Half Marathon see page 6 St Albans Farmers Market St Peters Street Musical Sunday Afternoon St Albans Organ Theatre Camp Road, St Albans, 03003 656565, 2.15pm - 4.30pm, adult £5.50, Child £2.50

17th St Columba’s College Prep School Open Evening see page 37 20th The Alban Pilgrimage www.enjoystalbans.com Baroque & Beyond St Peters Church, St Albans, 01582 763774, Carillon Chamber Choir, 7.30pm, adult £14, concs £13, child £5 21st Redbourn in Steam Redbourn Village Museum, annual gathering of traction engines & road rollers, 11am - 3pm, adult £2, child £1 Alban Street Festival St Peters Street, St Albans, performance arena, 2 music stages, creative activities, climbing wall, face painting & more, 12 noon - 6pm 23rd Talk: The Dreyfus Affair spy buried in St Nicholas Churchyard’ by Dr John Versey, Harpenden Public Halls, Harpenden Local History Society, 8pm 24th BBC Radio 3 Choral Evensong Broadcast Live St Albans Cathedral, Cathedral Choir, all welcome, please be seated by 3.15pm Harpenden Garden Society Day Trip coach to Berkshire visiting attractive gardens & a nursery harpendengardeningsociety.org Pride & Prejudice Highfield Park, St Albans, 0871 2200260, please bring rugs or low-backed seating, 7.30pm, adult £14, child £10 27th Glow & Walk see page 34 St Albans Folk Festival - The Day of the Dance dance displays around the city centre, 10.15 - 5pm A Great British Concert

by St Albans Symphony Orchestra, St Saviour's Church, St Albans, 01727 852768, 7.30pm Brass Monkey - St Albans Folk Festival Old Town Hall, St Albans, 7.30pm, adult £20, concs £16 Talk: Mosaics Verulamium Museum, St Albans Tour Guides, 3pm - 3.30pm, free 28th Open Gardens 12 beautiful gardens in Gustard Wood / Blackmore End AL4, plants, crafts, treasure trails, wildlife groups, live music, ice-cream & Pimms in aid of Cancer Research UK & Alzheimer’s Socety, no dogs please, just a 45 min walk via Rose Lane from Wheathampstead, 10.30am - 5pm, £5 www.opengardensgustardwood.com Harpenden Farmers Market Lower High Street, 10am - 2pm

VE Day 70th Anniversary On 8th May 1945, Britain erupted into joyful, euphoric celebration. The eagerly awaited news had finally arrived, war was over and Germany had surrendered.

After 5 years, 8 months and 4 days of fighting, victory in Europe was declared. The price of freedom had been high and many challenges lay ahead. It would be 3 more months before the fighting ended in the Far East, when Japan surrendered. But for one glorious day and night, a generation rejoiced. Streets packed with people were decked out in red, white and blue. Bonfires blazed, fireworks banged and music blared.

There were crowds everywhere all singing, dancing and cheering.

To remember this historic event, over the weekend of 8th -10th May, the Royal British Legion will join the nation in marking the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. There will be a series of national commemorative events in London that weekend, with community events and celebrations being organised across the country. Vice Admiral Peter Wilkinson CB CVO, National President of The Royal British Legion said: "The commemoration of this conflict, still in living memory, gives us the opportunity to salute the Second World War generation. We hope that all communities will use the VE Day 70 commemorations to thank them and celebrate the role they played in our nation's history." www.gov.uk/veday70 www.britishlegion.org.uk www.veday.org.uk

Duxford Air Show 23rd & 24th May Come and enjoy this show paying tribute to the people who endured the Second World War. The flying display will show how the Second World War was won in the air.

Accompanied by music, speeches, veterans’ memories, flying aircraft showing Britain preparing for war, the vital victory in the Battle of Britain, the bombing campaign, flying with the armies and navies, and why Victory in Europe didn’t end the Second World War. In a poignant spectacle commemorating the 70th anniversary of VE Day and its own 70th anniversary, B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B will lead a VE Day anniversary salute, accompanied by a Dakota, Catalina, P-51 Mustangs, Corsair, Wildcat, Warhawk and Curtiss P-40C. Immerse yourself in a 1940s street party atmosphere complete with bunting and picnic benches. Sing along to wartime music and songs performed on Duxfords Second World War stage.

Living history groups give a glimpse into life on the Home Front, including wartime weddings, the Home Guard, the Womens’ Auxiliary Air Force and the United State Army Air Forces.

Experience the era when 'Beauty was Duty' with1940s hair and make-up demonstrations.

All flying is subject to weather and serviceability.

IWM Duxford will be open from 8am - 6pm. The flying display will start at 2pm and finish at approximately 5.30pm, giving time in the morning to explore the museum, and it’s other activities or treat yourself to a pleasure flight.

Imperial War Museum Duxford, Cambs CB22 4QR 01223 835000 www.iwm.org.uk

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Index of Businesses

Accountants Hicks TaxAssist Accountants

7 6

Aerial Installations Concorde Aerials

27

Beauty Lavender & Stone

40

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

19

37

Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster

11

Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

23

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorating

29 29

Electricians I & B Electrical MLC Electrical

29 26

Pet Care Personal Petcare

13

Plasterer A. Merson Plastering

26

Dance & Drama Stagecoach

Financial Management AMR Financial Management

Blinds Colourblindz Harpenden Blinds

35 35

Flooring Creative Wood Flooring

Bowling Club Batchwood Hall Bowling Club

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Flower Arranging Workshops The Flower School

Builder Laurence Cox

35

Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop Ltd Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services Ltd Charity Traid

21 21 22

Children’s Art Classes FineArt4Kids!

36

Chiropodist Kathy Witchard

41

Cleaning Big Yellow Dustbusters Merrivac Mobile Maid Services Murray’s Cleaning Services Complementary Health Mind-Body Balance Computer Repairs Ken Hodson

9 11 11 9 11 41

7 35

Foot Care Feet First Golinska Foot Care

3 40 40

Garden Centre Bridge Valley Burston Garden Centre

2 2

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd Girlie Plumbing

23 & 47 23

Pond Maintenance Women With Waders Private Healthcare Spire Harpenden Hospital

5

Recruitment Agency KA Marketing

7

Removals Stephens

19 43

School St Columba’s College

37

Gardening / Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd Garden Life Landscapes Greenshouse & Gardens Russell Dickson Supagrass The Garden Tidy

17 17 15 14 13 13

Retirement Homes McFarland Park & Leisure Homes

Gas K25

Security Maximum Security Systems

27

23

Slimming Vision Weight Consultancy

41

Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd

15

Tyre Fitting Big D’s Tyres

19

Hearing Services The Hearing Healthcare Practice Hot Tubs A5 Hot Tubs

39 Back Cover

Indian Restaurant Shapla

6

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Window Cleaner Harpenden Window Cleaning Windows & Doors Cloudy2Clear Kings Windows Sash Restorations Ltd

Museum of Argument - Put History on Trial 9th May, 13th June, 4th July & 8th August 2pm - 3.30pm Museums are about ideas as well as objects, so St Albans Museum has planned a series of public events and discussions in the Courtroom at the Old Town Hall and everyone is welcome to join in. Sessions will feature panellists presenting individually, and discussing as a group, a particular topic. The audience will have the chance to ask questions and share opinions and experiences of the topic.

9th May: Vaccination in the Dock focusing on historical vaccinations 13th June: Prison Education in the 19th Century and today £7, adults only, please book in advance 01727 819340 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Sketch by John Henry Buckingham showing 1851 proceedings of the Bribery Commission

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