harpenden summer 2013
Look inside for... What’s on Harpenden Beer Festival
Summer in the City BBC Three Counties Radio Advice
Scarecrow Festival
NOW at Knebworth Teddy Bears Picnic ...and much more
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Welcome to summer YOUR LOCAL PLANT CENTRE
Summer Plant Sale 01582 766728 2
Weekends only throughout August call for seasonal opening times
Welcome to summer
Summer is well and truly here and there’s ‘shedloads’ to do so whatever you’re up to, have fun and let’s hope the sun keeps shining! But remember if you need anything - just think local first! Have a great summer... Deadline for next editions: 10th Sept
jane & wendy to advertise call 07983 588291 / 313 wendy@thenowmagazines.com
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music all the way
Teddy Bears Picnic 12 teddies galore
The Zoo Human Predicament 18 be healthy, happy & free
Summer in the City 26 music, theatre, food & drink
NOW at Knebworth 30 theatre, art, classics & ghosts
Heritage Open Days 32 local history for free
NOW at the Maltings 34 jazz, music & theatre
Herts Open Studios 36 meet the artists
Scarecrow Festival 40 vote for your favourite
What’s on in August 44 & September 46 Consumer Advice NOW 48 BBC three Counties Radio
Index of Businesses 50 accountants to windows & doors
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Be part of it! The National Children’s Orchestra offers talented young musicians aged 7-13, from all over the UK, unbeatable orchestral training and performance opportunities, this is your chance to be a part of it! Applications for auditions are now invited and must be made by 30th September 2013. There are auditions across the country, some venues fill up quickly, so submit your application as soon as possible. “What the National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain offers our musical youth is unrivalled in the UK. Whether working with a 7-year-old, new to the excitement of ensemble playing, or a 13-year-old, desperate for new musical challenges – the NCO provides a unique orchestral experience. Not only do children gain access to the very best level of tuition and performance opportunities, they also find themselves in the company of other children who share the same passions as them. The perfect mix of fun, friendship and phenomenal playing!” Sir Simon Rattle CBE
www.nco.org.uk
Outstanding Montessori in Harpenden “A truly unique and very special place” a current parent
www.artisans.uk.com 07795 510 130 info@artisans.uk.com 6
Bouncy Castle Hire from just ÂŁ50!
Indoor Hire Available
Love Language of Luton Alison Sesi, BA (Hons), QTS
Languages Teacher German / French / Mandarin Tuition
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St Albans Bouncy Castles 07721 011 539 01727 87 22 12 www.stalbansbouncycastles.co.uk
Beginner to GCSE level English: ESOL or school support Holiday / Term-time Adult and Younger Learners welcome Individuals or groups
www.love-language.co.uk info@love-language.co.uk 07951 953607
A window to another world!
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Harpenden Beer Festival Four local pubs The Old Cock Inn, The Plough & Harrow, The Engineer and The Carpenters Arms are hosting Harpenden’s third independent Beer Festival on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th September at the Harpenden Royal British Legion. Available all day this year are 70 real ales, perrys, ciders and food along with live music from ‘The Low Lamps’ and ‘Whose Your Daddy’ CAMRA members free, admission £5 includes a festival glass. Call The Old Cock Inn for more details on 01582 712649.
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Homeowners feeling more confident… “It’s been a difficult few years for all of us”, reports Julian Hughes of JMH Building, “but now I can really sense that people feel confident enough in the economy to get on with making improvements to their homes. The government has plans to broaden permitted development rights and make planning much simpler, so this really should make it much more straightforward for anyone wanting a simple extension or conversion”. Julian Hughes, owner of JMH Building says that his Hertfordshire based building company is now busier than ever with a number of projects in the pipeline ranging from simple garden landscaping and driveways to major renovations and extensions. “I hope that now people feel happy to move ahead with their project, they will take care to select a reputable and dependable local building company that can work with them to get the job they want with the budget they have “.
JMH Building has been providing quality building services in and around Hertfordshire for more than 30 years and will happily work with clients to fulfil their plans. The company have established links with architects and engineers to prepare drawings and can help guide clients through the planning process. They will provide a FREE quotation and using only experienced tradesmen to complete the work, will ensure that a timely and quality job is achieved every time. If you’d like to talk to Julian about your plans please call him anytime on: 07976 227647 or email him at julian@jmhbuilding.co.uk Go to their website for more information and photos www.jmhbuilding.co.uk Visit the Planning Portal website to check permitted development rights and planning using the simple interactive guide www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/house
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Would you Skydive 10,000ft? Harpenden resident and community fundraiser for The Hospice of St Francis, Sarah Ajder, is taking to the skies and join 48 other daring individuals on a sponsored 10,000ft tandem Skydive. Sarah, of Clarence Road, said “I watched last year as 30 supporters skydived and the buzz they experienced was utterly incredible. I want to experience this for myself as well as give something back to what I know is a fantastic organisation as they provided expert care for my mum and two Harpenden friends.
She continues, “Many Harpenden residents are unaware that we are their local Inpatient Hospice and that 22% of our Inpatient Unit patients live in Harpenden and St Albans. By jumping out of a plane, I am hoping to do my bit to help fund the charity’s work and raise awareness locally. It’s also a personal challenge but, compared to the challenges that many of our patients face, I feel extremely fortunate to be in a position to participate.” There are 10 spaces available on Saturday 13th October for the tandem jump, which is taking place at the specialist skydive centre at Hinton Airfield in Brackley (near Milton Keynes). Each skydiver needs to raise a minimum of £400 in sponsorship. Half pays for the Skydive and the rest supports the vital work of The Hospice of St Francis. To apply contact fundraising@stfrancis.org.uk or call 01442 869555. The Hospice of St Francis provides professional support and care for people with terminal or lifelimiting illnesses. We bring peace, comfort and dignity to patients, helping them to live life to the full, for whatever time is left. All care is given free of charge but we need £4.6 million annually to continue to offer this service. www.stfrancis.org.uk
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Teddy Bears Picnic If you go down to Lydekker Park on Saturday 17th August from 11am - 2pm you’ll be sure of a big surprise... ...children and their teddy bears will be gathering for the park’s annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic. This free event is part of Harpenden Town Council’s ongoing campaign to raise awareness of Lydekker Park, and among others is being sponsored by local business Davenport House Patients Group. Entertainment will be provided by Smartie Artie, face painters and a bouncy castle. Creative Movement will be running a free action-packed interactive storytelling and movement class at 12.30pm.There will also be a chance for all the budding footballers to show off their skills with 1st Kicks throughout the day. Town Mayor Councillor Rosemary Farmer said: “Come and join us ... I look forward to seeing you and your teddy bears” For more information contact Alexandra Baron on 01582 463668 or alexandra.baron@harpenden.gov.uk
Do you know any artists Painters, Sculptors, Ceramicists....
.....looking for an opportunity to sell their work? If so please... ask them to visit www.artexporadlett.co.uk and watch the videos of previous Art Expo Radlett events on YouTube. The next Art Expo will be held this October including a 1 Day Art Fair on Sunday 20th October. Spaces are still available for just £45, fully inclusive of all Display and Marketing costs! Great for first time exhibitors as well as the more experienced! picture by Todd White
For further details call Jean Dennis on 01727 834 391 (Mon-Sat 9am-5pm) or email jean@leadingartevents.co.uk
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The Zoo Human Predicament Our True Nature is to be Healthy, Happy, and Free The ‘human zoo’ is a modern, global and growing phenomenon generated by the powerful combination of social Rediscover the conventions, technological movement skills that environment, and commercial pressures. Increasingly disconnected made our species from the natural world and their one of the most universal biological needs, zoo humans are suffering physically, adaptable on mentally, and spiritually. Earth! Are you experiencing chronic pain? Are you overweight? Do you often feel depressed or suffer from frequent illnesses and general lack of vitality? education and fitness system that empowers zoo These symptoms indicate that you are humans to become strong and healthy again, to experiencing zoo human syndrome. Modern experience their true nature and human potential. society conditions us to think that this is normal Rehabilitating the Zoo Human and unavoidable. So, grab a zoo human, drop them back into At The Fit Lab, we strongly disagree with that nature’s embrace and they will rediscover their view. We believe that our true nature is to be evolutionary birth right of health and vitality, strong, healthy, happy, and free. We teach right? Unfortunately not! ‘MovNat’ a complete natural movement physical All intelligent, social animals that have been born in captivity are unable to get back to natural living without going through a rehabilitation process first. Because the human brain is highly evolved, Join 1000 walkers on Sunday 15th September for rehabilitating zoo human demands a coaching this invigorating challenge, back for its 5th year! model based on specific expertise and experience. Last year nearly 1000 walkers and hundreds of dogs Moving naturally has inherent risks. The foundation walked the chalk in our fourth annual Chilterns 3 of the MovNat coaching system is to revolutionise Peaks Challenge raising an impressive £60,000. your perception of movement and improve your The 18 mile route was fantastically well received performance while preventing injury. with the majority of walkers rising to the challenge What You Will Learn from Us walking between and up all three peaks! You will rediscover the movement skills that made This year are you ready to take up the challenge to our species one of the most adaptable on Earth! Walk the Chalk with Rennie Grove Hospice Care? MovNat involves the combined training of walking, Why not make 2013 the year for making a real running, jumping, balancing, moving on all fours, difference to local patients and families facing the climbing, lifting, carrying, throwing and challenges of cancer and other life limiting illnesses. catching. You do not have to be fit to start Choose from a 5, 9 or 18 mile route along the MovNat. You will learn to move efficiently, with beautiful Chiltern’s Ridgeway, taking in Whiteleaf ease, power, and grace, and become fit in the Cross, Coombe Hill and Ivinghoe Beacon. process. You will: Entry costs £17 for adults and £10 for children (dogs Develop mental qualities for action and are free!) for more information and to register call dramatically enhance the perception of your body, 01442 820739 or visit www.c3peaks.com the environment, and the situation. Learn to better control your breathing, to understand your inner sensations, to relax and stay alert.
Walk the Chalk
If you too would like to escape the ‘Human Zoo’ visit The Fit Lab Blog www.thefitlab.co.uk
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Julia Reading BSC (Hons) MChS, HPC Registered Podiatrist
I Treat The Following Foot Conditions Corns * Callous * Fungal nails Ingrowing toe nails * Verrucas General foot health advice For an appointment please phone
07746 472781 / 01582 760200 Southdown Chiropody Practice Southdown Clinic, 136a Southdown Road
Mondays & Fridays Tuesdays pm
Home Visits Available
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Charity Walk Sunday
Harpenden Village Rotary Club is organising a Charity Walk on Sunday, 29th September. Starting between 1pm and 2.30pm from the Royal British Legion in Leyton Road, there are opportunities to join walks ranging from 1.5 to 10 miles. Sponsorship money will be shared with 75% going to the walker’s charity with the remaining 25% going to Rotary supported charities. For more information please contact email: rotarywalk@hvrc.net text/voicemail: 07968 351661 www.hvrc.net
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Pass this Course and you could be working at Harpenden Pool as a Lifeguard! The RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the most awarded lifeguard qualification in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The course is a minimum of 36 hours and covers: The Lifeguard, Swimming Pool and Supervision, Rescue and Emergency Action Plan, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, AED and First Aid.
Course Dates: 5th- 10th August 26th- 31st August Cost: ÂŁ260 Contact: Will Holmes
01582 460683 bmharpendenpool@leisureconnection.co.uk www.rlss.org.uk
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Splash Out!
On a hot summer day what could be better than lounging by Harpenden’s outdoor paddling pool Open Now Every Day 11am - 5pm
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Annual Charity Golf Day Sunday 15th September 11am - 5pm free To celebrate St Albans being awarded the ‘Mayfair’ spot on the ‘Here and Now’, UK edition Monopoly Board, St Albans Giant Monopoly was created. It’s a one day event, providing fun for the whole family. Visiting up to 20 different check points on your Monopoly board, including the Clock Tower, Adizone and Sopwell Nunneries. There will be 2 routes, 2.5 and 4.5 miles, and tour guides to show you the Old Town Hall and Prison Cells. Start at The Old Town Hall, St Peters Street or the Beach Volley Ball Courts, Verulamium Park. Join us for a game of Giant Monopoly and get fit while you get to know the City better!
Friday 16th August Performing a broad selection of songs from ‘Rat-Pack’ to ‘JiveJumping Jools Holland style’. An exciting night with hits you'll know and love from the Swing era including tracks from Ella Fitzgerald and Glenn Miller through to songs like ‘Mr Bojangles’ and ‘Bad, Bad Leroy Brown’ plus foot stomping Rhythm and Blues / Jazz. The show will appeal to all age groups. £12 Butterfly World 01727 869203 www.butterflyworld.com
Five Star Swing at Butterfly World
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Friday 13th September annual charity golf day for the Luton and Dunstable Hospital at Harpenden Common Golf Club. So far the successful golf days have raised a fantastic £13,200 for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Appeal which treats premature and sick babies from across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. The day starts with bacon rolls and coffee at midday, followed by 18 holes of golf with competitions along the course and a 2 course dinner with prize giving ceremony in the evening. Teams of 4, however if you would like to play but don’t have 3 others to play with you can still sign up and we’ll team you up with some other keen golfers! £80 per person. Please contact Sarah on 01582 718289 or sarah.coulthard@ldh.nhs.uk The NICU Appeal has been building momentum and with thanks to friends and supporters from all over the region a fantastic £700,000 has been raised!
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Summer in the City St Albans City will come alive at the weekends in August with exciting and explosive street entertainment. Over three weekends the town centre will be the stage for buskers, outdoor theatre, music and street performers and other activities to delight and entertain. Come and join in the fun and prepare to be surprised! 2nd - 4th August Magna Carta Festival 9th - 11th August Olympic Legacy Sports Festival Street Entertainment by Covent Garden Entertainment Henry VI Plays 17th -18th / 24th - 25th August Street Entertainment Taming of the Shrew Vintry Garden, nr Cathedral www.enjoystalbans.com
Up to 15th September Exhibition: The Journey Starts Here Museum of St Albans 3rd & 4th August Magna Carta Medieval Festival Verulamium Park, 11am – 4pm Manga Carta & Breaking Barriers Workshops with a Manga Artist and music, poetry and performances from local young people The Clock Tower 3rd - 29th August The Magna Carta in St Albans Come and see the original 1215 Magna Carta St Albans Cathedral Magna Carta Concert 3rd August 7.30pm The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra presents a programme inspired by the themes and spirit of the Magna Carta. St Albans Cathedral Magna Carta Solemn Evensong with Procession 4th August 6.30pm Sung by the choir of St Paul's Episcopal Church, New York. St Albans Cathedral
Henry VI Three Plays by William Shakespeare presented by the Globe Theatre on Tour Sunday 11th August performed on the green in front of St Albans Cathedral West Door. - Harry the Sixth, 12.45pm - The Houses of York and Lancaster, 4.15pm - The True Tragedy of the Duke of York, 7.45pm approx 2 hours per play. Bring a rug or low-backed chair, clothing for all weather conditions and a picnic. Tickets: ÂŁ45 for all three plays available from: St Albans Cathedral information desk 01727 890256 / 020 7401 9919 www.shakespearesglobe.com
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For more information on times and tickets please visit www.enjoystalbans.com
Olympic Legacy Festival On Saturday 10th August, a year on from the London 2012 Olympic Games, St Albans will be organising an Olympic Legacy Festival in Verulamium Park. Come along and take part in a huge variety of activities, listen to live music, have your photo taken with an Olympic Torch and even take part in some Beach Volleyball Taster Sessions! The Festival will run from 11am - 6pm with fun and games for the whole family! For more information please contact Matt Charles, Sport & Health Development Manager on 01727 866100 or Matt.Charles@leisureconnection.co.uk
Wednesday 25th September - Sunday 6th October St Albans has a long history of excellent pubs and restaurants and is host to a quality Farmers Market once a month. The Food and Drink Festival celebrates and showcases this, starting with the CAMRA Beer Festival and ending with the finale Festival Market in the city centre. Over the twelve days you will be able to sample the warmth and hospitality of St Albans with special offers and events laid on especially for the festival, including cooking demonstrations, wine tasting, cocktail master classes and other exciting activities. www.stalbansfoodanddrink.com
St Albans Beer Festival 25th - 28th September 11am - 11pm The Alban Arena The premier event in the Hertfordshire drinkers calendar is back! The number of real ales on offer runs into hundreds and is complimented by a vast selection of ciders, perries, bottle conditioned beers and others from around the world. And of course there’ll be festival fodder to soak up the beer plus tutored beer tastings, breweriana auctions and we’ll have the Good Beer Guide 2014 hot off the press on sale too! The festival will feature live music on Thursday evening with local St Albans band The Faith Stealers, and on Saturday lunch time the Nimmo Brothers unplugged plus Larry Miller tops the bill on Saturday evening. All other times will be music free.
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A Quick Summer Tea! Summer is a busy time for any parent, so quick easy meals are a must, but they need to be tasty and nutritious. Here’s a light summer option for a family favourite tea, and a delicious summer dessert.
Cheats Mushroom and Spinach Lasagne 2 tbsp olive oil 180g / 6oz pack of pre-washed spinach leaves 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 250g / 9oz mushrooms, sliced (chestnut are great for this recipe) 400g / 14oz can of chopped tomatoes 300g / 12oz fresh lasagne sheets 400ml / 10fl half fat crème fraiche 100g / 40z mature cheddar cheese, grated ½ tsp nutmeg, grated Salt and pepper Pre-heat the oven to 200c/400f/gas mark 6. In a large frying pan heat 1tsp of the oil, add half the garlic and spinach, fry gently until spinach is wilted. Remove from the heat, place in a bowl to and allow to cool. Add the remaining oil and mushrooms and cook over a high heat until golden brown, stir in the remaining garlic and sizzle for 30 seconds, stir in the tinned tomatoes, season to taste. Set aside to cool. To make the sauce, place the crème fraiche into a bowl, add the nutmeg, salt and pepper and stir. Lightly grease an oven proof 1.4ltr low sided dish. Place lasagne sheets over the base of the dish, cut to fit if needed. Top with the half the mushroom mix then more lasagne. Spoon on a third of the crème fraiche and top with half the spinach, repeat this process once more..After the final layer of lasagne sheets, spread on the remaining crème fraiche and grated cheese. Place on a flat baking tray and cook for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the lasagne sheets feel tender to an inserted knife. Serve with a fresh green salad and crusty bread. recipe supplied by Abbot’s Kitchen St Albans Cathedral
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Peach Melba Shortcakes 175g self-raising flour ½ tsp baking powder 75g butter, chilled and diced 55g caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling 1 large egg, beaten 1 tbsp milk Filling 125g mascarpone cheese 2 tbsp icing sugar 6 tbsp single cream 175g fresh raspberries 2 ripe peaches, stoned and sliced Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas mark 4 and lightly grease a large baking sheet. Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl. Add the butter and rub into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and add the beaten egg and milk and mix to a soft dough. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface and roll out to a 1cm thickness. Using an 8cm round cookie cutter stamp out 8 rounds, gently re-rolling the trimmings as necessary. Place on the prepared baking sheet, prick the top of each round lightly with a fork then sprinkle with a little caster sugar. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until risen and pale golden. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely. To make the filling, beat the mascarpone cheese with the icing sugar and cream until smooth. Push half the raspberries through a fine-holed sieve to make a puree. Slice each shortcake in half horizontally and top the bottom halves with the cream mixture, peach slices and remaining raspberries. Drizzle over the raspberry puree and top with remaining shortcake halves. The shortcakes can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. Fill with the cream and fruit 1-2 hours before serving. Alternatively use with whatever seasonal fruit you have to hand and a dollop of extra thick cream!
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NOW at Knebworth 1st August Wind in the Willows A new adaptation of the classic novel, performed by the Chapterhouse Theatre Company on the sunken lawn in front of the House. Bring a rug or low backed chairs and a picnic. Light refreshments will be available to purchase until the end of the interval. Booking essential: adult £13, child £9, gates open at 6pm performance 7-9pm
5th August Painting Day: Art in the Garden Spend a day painting with local artist James Willis. The group will start with practical exercises in the Lytton Barn, then outdoor work in the formal gardens. Please bring your own materials and equipment. Suitable for all abilities – beginners welcome. Book early as spaces are limited 01438 810931, 10am - 4.30pm, cost £39.50
10th & 11th August Knebworth Country Show A family show with entertainment all day, including birds of prey, working dogs, dog show and children’s entertainment. A wide range of art/crafts, gifts and foods to browse and buy. 11-4pm, admission £9, under 4’s free
16th August Pride and Prejudice New adaptation of the classic novel, performed by the Chapterhouse Theatre Company on the sunken lawn in front of the House. Bring a rug or low backed chairs and a picnic. Light refreshments will be available to purchase until the end of the interval. Bar open until 11pm. Booking essential, book online. Adult £13, child £9, gates 6pm performance 7pm - 9.15pm
25th & 26th August Classic Motor Show Bank Holiday Weekend. An enthusiast’s paradise with thousands of cars on display, autojumble stalls and lots of cars for sale. Live commentary and arena displays of clubs, kit and custom cars. Pre- and post war classics. 10% discount on admission tickets for online bookings. 10 - 4.30pm, cost £9 per person, family £32
6th September Ghost Tour and Bat Walk Part of the ‘Museums at Night’ this is a unique opportunity to tour the House at night and hear the tales of incidents we cannot explain. Visit areas where our resident presences have been detected. Following the house tour, there will be a light supper served in the Garden Terrace Tea Room from 8pm - 8.45pm, followed by a bat walk around the garden. Warm clothing and suitable footwear recommended. Booking essential for this popular event, book online, £22 per person, gates open at 6.30pm for 7pm start Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com
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before
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The Lost Gardens of Gorhambury The present Gorhambury House on the outskirts of St Albans was built in the late 18th century to replace the Tudor house built by Sir Nicholas Bacon. Gorhambury and its gardens were inherited by his son Francis Bacon in 1601. In an essay entitled “On Verulam House Gardens” Francis describes a garden as the purest form of human pleasures and that a palace without a garden was but “a gross handywork”. The perfect garden should be a minimum of 30 acres, and divided into three parts: four acres nearest the house should be grass. The main garden should be a square of 12 acres surrounded by a hedge with a 30 foot mount at its centre with a banqueting house. Beyond should be a “desert” or wilderness area. This ideal garden seems to have been inspired by his father’s Tudor garden. A plan of the Gorhambury gardens shows an area of 28 acres consisting of a turfed court, a formal garden with the “desert” located beyond an oak wood. In his essay Francis suggested the inclusion of fountains but advised against ponds as these attracted frogs and flies. So it’s ironic the garden he built was a fashionable water garden. The 4 acres of gardens, which included islands and a Roman style banqueting house, were a mile from Gorhambury and approached by an avenue of trees. Francis thought a man should have two sets of clothes, and two houses, one for summer and one for winter. Gorhambury had running water, but one summer the supply ran dry. So he built Verulam House close to his water gardens and the River Ver, saying that as “he could not carry the water to his house, he would carry his house to the water”. On the roof was a viewing platform from which guests could admire his new gardens. In 1626 Francis died heavily in debt. He had refused to sell the oak trees on the estate, describing them as his “feathers”. Within a few years of his death the park and gardens of Gorhambury were destroyed by being rented out for grazing. Verulam House was demolished in the 1660s and the materials sold. Of the water gardens only a few earthworks remain. Most of Tudor Gorhambury was demolished in the 18th century leaving just a portion as an “eye catcher” for the new house. The current Gorhambury estate is now open to the public on Thursdays between 2 - 5pm, last entry 4pm, cost £8, concs £7. For more information or group bookings please call 01727 854051. Old Gorhambury is English Heritage and free of charge to visit. Elizabeth Eastwood, City & District of St Albans Tour Guide
Heritage Open Days Thursday 12th - Sunday 15th September Every September for one weekend a number of museums and attractions in St Albans open their doors inviting you to visit them for free, and to explore buildings normally closed to the public. It is a once-a -year chance to discover our architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities that bring local history and culture to life. Here’s just a taster of what's happening: 12th - 15th September Tours of Museum Stores Museum of St Albans, £5 per tour www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk 14th & 15th September St Albans Signal Box Open Days 10 - 5pm www.tlr.ltd.uk Redbournbury Mill www.redbournburymill.co.uk For further details visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk
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andrew@arlandscapes.co.uk
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NOW at the Maltings
August sees the arrival of a brand new take on Lewis Carroll’s Alice In Wonderland, Finding Alice, on 18th August, the ultimate family show reworked into a magical piece of theatre for all ages. From DOT productions, our heroine, discovers the wonderful things that can happen when you read with the lights out! The end of August gives youngsters aged 7 to 16 the chance to make their own animated movie at an Animation Boot Camp held for four days from 27th to 30th August, run by the St Albans Film Festival organisers, the cost for the course is just £120. The week ends with a special premiere screening at the theatre. In September, we kick off with Boudicca at Verulamium a brand new play by Imogen de la Bere which premieres on 5th - 7th / 10th - 12th September. Having laid everything to waste, the fabled warrior queen now faces her final test - should she face the Romans in pitched battle or retreat and live to fight another day? Visceral and spirited, with unique costuming and an original score, this is intimate theatre on a grand scale. 14th September sees local singer songwriter Justin Starck showcasing songs from his new album Autumn for a special live recording. Playing a rich blend of folk, pop, country and soul, along with the added draw of a live album recording promising to make this a very special show. Then on 19th September we see the return of the St Albans Jazz Ensemble (STAJE). Playing a variety of styles from big-band swing and Latin to funk, close harmony, soul and blues. Rounding off the month is ‘Irrational Theatre’s’ fusion spectacular, Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue on 20th & 21st / 27th & 28th September. Featuring two short operatic pieces, Cox And Box and A Proposal together with two new short plays, Cycle and Bloo Hoo, this is the latest piece of innovative fusion theatre from our friends at Irrational. www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk Maltings Arts Theatre St Albans
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Artists to make a splash across Herts Herts Open Studios, now in its 23rd year, is a regular autumn event on the Hertfordshire social calendar. This year the dates for your diary are 7th - 29th September. Including a wide range of artists and makers in 114 venues, ranging from painters in oil, acrylic and water-colour, multimedia artists, ceramicists, jewellers and glass artists, photographers – both digital and film, sculptors and engravers, print, textile and fashion creators. Whether searching for a particular theme or colour scheme, or in need of inspiration, there will be something for you. For bright and eyecatching pieces visit contemporary ceramicist Ruta Bartkeviciute. For that sunny and heartwarming feeling go to Vitreus Art to see sunlight through coloured glass, or visit Hazel Godfrey for textural natural woven pieces. Various artists explore fresh and vibrant blues; these include Barbara Weeks, who demonstrates an exciting approach to hand dyed, layered and stitched textiles, also Fiona Gaskell whose speciality is decorative still life oil paintings. Plants and flowers are well represented; from personal views of nature through a camera lens by Ariaan Winter, to bold colourful acrylics by Jan Langton. Animals also appear in a range of styles; from portraits that capture personality by Ruth Goodman - to characterful paintings and prints by Chrissie Richards. It’s a time when Hertfordshire’s established, emerging and amateur artists open their doors to the public. Artists show a wide range of work – and visitors can buy if they want to. It’s an opportunity to talk to artists in their own creative settings, own a piece of original artwork, or buy that special gift such as jewellery or collectibles. Many artists and makers welcome commissions. Make your visits sociable by travelling with a friend or encourage interested family members to tag along. Last year some sports clubs – cyclists and walkers - organised circuits via some of their local studios. Some venues serve refreshments – well deserved if you’ve been running or cycling a few miles! HVA artists would love to see you. To find out more about Herts Open Studios 2013 the brochure is now in libraries, galleries, art and craft venues and other local outlets and available online at www.hvaf.org.uk
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Scarecrows and Fun Galore! Fri 16th August: 12pm - 5pm Sat 17th August: 10am - 6pm Sun 18th August: 10.30am - 5pm This annual festival attracting 5000 visitors is a Fun, Family Fundraising Event held in the picturesque village of Flamstead. Each year it’s amazing to see the creativity of the villagers with their amusing and clever scarecrows; over 100 of which are placed around the village. Just come along, park in the free car park, pick up a voting form and make your way round the village, listing your favourite scarecrows. Return your completed form to the village hall, enjoy a Cream Tea, visit the Cake Stall, Punch and Judy, and the Wicket Brood on Saturday; Tombola, Aldbury Morris Men and the Hemel Hempstead Brass Band on Sunday. There is also a painting exhibition all weekend in St Leonard’s Church. Twelve years ago The Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre with the help of the Friends of St Leonard’s conceived the idea of the Festival as a vehicle to raise funds for the two charities. Come along for a fantastic day out for the whole family and help raise money for these two very worthy causes. For further information contact Charlene at the Hertfordshire MS Therapy Centre, 01462 684214 or charleneredmond@hmstc.net Visit our websites to see last year’s scarecrows or to find out more about the charities. www.flamstead-herts.co.uk www.hertsmstherapy.org.uk
NOW at the Hawthorne Skating at RollerCity! Thurs 1st – Fri 23rd August Tues 27th – Fri 30th August 1pm – 2.30pm all ages 3pm – 4.30pm all ages Adults can skate during these sessions too! Advance booking is recommended 01707 357117 www.rollercity.co.uk
Treasure Island Sat 10th August 11am & 3pm Here be a swashbuckling, show-stopping, sail-flapping, hand-clapping, toe-tapping, barnacle busting pantomime! Tickets £8
Winston on the Run Wed 11th September 7.30pm It’s 1899 and escaped prisoner-of-war Winston Churchill is a fiendish spot of bother: lost in the African savannah, wanted ‘Dead or Alive’ and hounded by the scathing words of his dead father. Will he surrender, or fight on - whatever the cost? Experience the coming-of-age of Britain's greatest hero in this gripping true story of adventure, audacity and Imperial folly. Free (£2.50 booking fee)
The Misunderstood Dr Beeching Thurs 12th September 7.30pm In 1963 Dr Richard Beeching was asked to write a report into "The reshaping of British Railways". As a result, rural railway lines were closed six thousand of miles of track were removed and 334 steam trains were sent to the scrap yard. The derelict stations fell into disrepair in un-serviced villages and over time Beeching became the most hated man in Britain. What if he returned from the grave to tell his side of the story - would he regret the loss of the local railway? Humourous, informative, nostalgic and always entertaining. For the second half of the show an unseen archive film will be shown: ‘Railways Past: A Journey Through Time’.
The Hundred and One Dalmatians Sun 15th September 3pm £9.50 / £6.50
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
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Sat 28th September 7.30pm £17 / £15 Ballet Cymru present an outstanding adaptation of Shakespeare’s timeless play. Hawthorne Theatre Welwyn Garden City
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Easy Money - NOT
whether the habit puts you in a positive or negative position? If it is positive, then there must be a reason for your recent shortfall, but if your balance has been negative for several months, then it could be a pattern of spending more than you are receiving. If so, then you will need to cut your cloth accordingly. Go through your bank statements and see what you can trim back. Congratulations. You are already more in control of your finances. But if you can’t stretch your budget to meet your expenditure because of debts, you may need further help. Now is the time to contact a free debt advice helpline such as Citizen Advice Bureau, Credit Action, or Christians Against Poverty (CAP). All of these organisations offer free advice.
You may have seen a great many adverts on daytime TV. The short, slick ads that make money appear to be easy to come by.
The key to all financial planning is for you to be in control.
Debt can eat away at us and affect our health, stress levels and the stress of debt can damage our relationships. It is important to work with your I am, of course, referring to the vast plethora of partner to solve this payday loan adverts that litter our TV screens problem, rather than try to almost every single day. tackle it yourself. And that At first glance a promise of almost instant money will take honesty. An can appear to be extremely attractive, especially if impartial third party debt you have fallen behind in your loan or card counselor could help. repayments, or perhaps you need a bit of extra Perhaps it is time to recall cash to tide you over. the advice of Mr Micawber But scratch beneath the surface and you will to the young David discover that if you fail to repay your loan on time, Copperfield: ‘Annual income many of these companies will charge thousands twenty pounds, annual of percent in interest. expenditure nineteen so here’s an alternative plan: pounds nineteen and six, Firstly take a deep breath and remember, “don’t result happiness. Annual panic”. income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty Clear an hour or so and make sure that you will pounds nought and six, not be interrupted. result misery.’ Now, make yourself a strong coffee and sit down However worrying your with your last three bank statements, a pen, some financial challenge, don’t be paper, and a calculator. tempted by the slick adverts Look at the end of your last bank statement, and offering you easy ‘wonga’. write down how much has come into your There’s always another way- and it’s a better way. account, and how much has gone out, and do the Arwyn Bailey is a former financial adviser of following sum: almost 18 years, and he is now a freelance The amount into your account less the amount out journalist, photographer and author and is of your account = “your balance”. frequently asked to comment in the media on Your balance will be positive or negative figure. many financial and macro economic details. His Now, perform the same calculation with your other latest novel is entitled Candelaro. You can learn bank statements. Look to see if there is a pattern more about Arwyn at: http://gponlinephotos.com and: http://themoneyartist.com in your spending habits? If there is, ask yourself
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However worrying your financial challenge don't be tempted by the slick adverts offering you easy ‘wonga’.
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What’s on in August 44
until 15th Sept Magna Carta 800 see page 26 1st Wind in the Willows see page 30 2nd-4th / 9th-11th / 17th-18th / 24th-25th Summer in the City see page 26 3rd The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra St Albans Cathedral, 01727 844488, 7.30pm 4th Wheathampstead Car Boot Sale East Lane Car Park (behind The Bull Pub), 10 - 1pm 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th Children’s Summer Gardening Club page 4 6th - 9th / 13th - 16th / 27th - 30th Summer Theatre Arts Workshops page 7 7th Play Day South Lake, Stanborough Lake, Welwyn Garden City, free games & fun activities, 10-4pm www.welhat.gov.uk/play 10th Walk: Our Common Herritage 01992 556612, guided 2 mile walk of Nomansland, 11am, meet at Ferrers Lane Car Park Olympic Legacy Festival see page 27 Three Little Pigs Balloon Show Council Hall, Markyate, 01442 228091 Treasure Island Hawthorne Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117, 11am & 3pm, £8, family £28 see page 40 10th & 11th Knebworth Country Show see page 30 11th Henry VI Three Plays see page 26 11th - 17th Musicale Concerts Harpenden Public Halls 01582 713333, lunchtime & evenings concerts www.musicale.co.uk 12th Hitchin Lavender Tours 01462 434343 www.hitchinlavender.com 12th-18th Story Telling Week Royal Airforce Museum, Hendon, NW9 interactive workshops for children under 12 14th Burtson Garden Centre Summer Activities Chiswell Green, St Albans 11am - 3pm: Animal Mask Making £2 11am - 3pm: Story Telling free, 2pm: Face Painting £2, in aid of Greenfingers Charity Be A Victorian Child for the Day British Schools Museum, Hitchin, 01462 420144, 10.30 - 2.30pm (last entry 1.30pm), adult free, child £4 www.hitchinbritishschools.co.uk
15th Family Discovery Morning: Just Around the Corner St Albans Cathedral, 10-12 noon, ages 3-11, free 16th Pride and Prejudice see page 30 Five Star Swing see page 24 16th - 18th Scarecrow Festival see page 40 17th Teddy Bears Picnic see page 12 18th Serenade to Music St Peters Church, St Albans, 07811 198566, 8pm, £10 20th Wobbly Brushes Inn on the Park Cafe, Verulamium Park, St Albans, make a Bumble Bee Hat & more, please book 07727 845485 / wobblybrushes@btinternet.com, 10-12pm, £5 22nd Treasure Island Hatfield House, children's open air theatre, bring a picnic, 3pm, adult £12, child £10, family £40 24th Heartwood Summer Festival Heartwood Forest, 11 - 4pm, family fun day & sleepover in the woods £10, please book sleepover, 07909 893545 24th & 25th Beauty & The Beast Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, £13 / £11 25th Taming of the Shrew Vintry Garden, near St Albans Cathedral, 01727 819320, limited space, free Harpenden Farmers Market Lower High Street, 10-2pm The National Pub 7’s see page 8 25th & 26th Classic Motor Show see page 30 Chilli Festival Benington Lordship Gardens, adult £7.50, under 16’s £2.50, under 12’s free www.beningtonlordship.co.uk 25th - 27th Medieval Archery & Falconry Weekend Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, amazing birds of prey & archery demonstrations by Robin Hood & his Merry Men, the Middle Ages brought to life with craft activities & interactive games for the children 29th Comedy of Errors Hatfield House, 7.30pm, adult £15, child £10 www.hatfield-house.co.uk 31st Aug - 1st Sept International Primate Weekend Paradise Wildlife Park www.pwpark.com
TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@theNOWmagazines.com
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What’s on in September
3rd Demonstration: Floral Fabrications by Pamela Ferguson, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, 2pm 6th Rage the Night Rapids see page 20 Ghost Tour & Bat Walk see page 30 6th & 7th Harpenden Beer Festival www.harpendenbeerfestival.co.uk see page 8 7th Mamma Mia Hatfield House, drive in movie, 01707 287010, £25 per car of 5 people 7th - 29th Herts Visual Open Studios see page 36 8th Classic & Vintage Vehicle Day Capel Manor Gardens, 08456 122122 www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk 10th Talk: Ornamental Vegetables Harpenden Horticultural Society, Roundwood Park School, 8pm, visitors £3, annual subscription £7.50 www.harpendenhorticulturalsociety.org 11th Winston on the Run see page 40 12th Hitchin Lavender Tours 01462 434343 www.hitchinlavender.com 12th - 15th Heritage Open Days see page 32 13th Charity Golf Day see page 24 15th Giant Monopoly see page 24 Walk the Chalk see page 18 Chilterns Festival Meadleys Meadow,
nr Ashridge Visitor Centre, 10 - 4pm, adult £4, child free 16th Sept - 15th Nov (daily) Ashridge Autumn Trail Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, 01442 851227, between 10-4pm 19th Sad Cafe The Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488, 7.30pm 20th - 22nd Herts Jazz Festival see page 8 21st The Osmond's American Jukebox Tour The Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488, 7.30pm Folkstock Acoustic Festival Aldenham Country Park, Elstree, family friendly music festival with a fete feel, adult £24, child £5, under 4’s free, www.folkstockfestival.com Harpenden Art, Craft & Antiques Fayre Methodist Church Hall, 10 - 4pm, 50p / free when mentioning ‘harpenden NOW’ Brambleton Model Railway Open Day Highfield Oval, Ambrose Lane, 2pm - 5.30pm, adult £2, child £1.50 22nd Lions Charity Orienteering Challenge Bricket Wood, family event, to book call Willie 01727 760904 Harpenden Farmers Market Lower High Street, 10 - 2pm 25th - 28th St Albans Beer Festival see page 27 25th Sept - 6th Oct Food & Drink Festival see page 27 28th Davenport House Health Fair see page 22 A Midsummer Nights Dream see page 40 29th Harpenden Village Rotary Club Charity Walk see page 20
Ken Hodson Local Computer Hardware and Software Repairs Upgrades and Advice for Home and Business • • • • • • •
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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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Consumer Advice NOW Jonathan Vernon-Smith is the Sony Award winning mid-morning show presenter for BBC Three Counties Radio. During his consumer hour he helps listeners with their consumer problems and now shares his advice here with you.
This does not affect your statutory rights One of the greatest myths concerning consumer rights, is that after a year, the retailer no longer has any obligation to you. What drives me utterly bonkers is that this myth is so often perpetuated by the retailer! I lose track of the number of times I have taken a call from a frantic consumer on my radio show saying “I bought a vacuum cleaner/tv/computer. It has broken, but because it’s 14 months old, the shop says there’s nothing they can do. After 12 months they don’t have to do anything”. I prefer to think it’s down to ignorance, rather than a conscious desire to mislead the customer that makes them fob people off in this way. When you purchase any brand new goods or services in the UK you are protected by your ‘statutory rights’ (sale of goods act 1979).
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All goods must be: a) Fit for purpose b) Of ‘reasonable’ quality (based on the cost) c) Last for a reasonable amount of time (based on the cost) Therefore, if you buy (for example) a TV for £600, it should last for a ‘reasonable’ amount of time. I would suggest a minimum of 5 years worth of ‘reasonable use’ (3 hours a day) before it blows up. If it develops a manufacturing fault at any time during that period, the retailer is liable! Any attempt to fob you off, should be met with a firm, but polite explanation of your consumer rights. For the first 6 months after purchase, it’s up to the retailer to prove that the fault with the item is NOT their responsibility. After the first 6 months it’s your responsibility. Therefore, my advice when dealing with an obstructive retailer, is to obtain an independent report to confirm that the product has a manufacturing fault, then ask the retailer to not only fix the problem, but also reimburse you for the cost of the report. So, remember next time the manager of a shop says “oh sorry, it’s 14 months old, there’s nothing we can do I’m afraid”, tell them you understand your statutory rights and if they STILL fail to help, then call my team on 01582 637450 and I’ll have a polite ‘word’ for you! You can tune into The JVS Show weekday mornings from 9am.
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Index of Businesses
Accountants Hicks TaxAssist Accountants Aerial Installations Concorde Aerials Harpenden Digital Services
43 45
Computer Repairs Ken Hodson Counselling / Sex Therapy Michael Stock
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Kindergarten Artisans Kindergarten
23
Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster
31
Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorating N.S. Decorating
13 13 13
Personal Trainers Alice Harvey Charlotte Rose
23 23
Pest Control The Verminator
37
Pet Care Personal Petcare
47
Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon
49 Dance & Drama Classes 48 Penny Waterman School of Dance 47 Stagecoach
5 5
Beauty Lavender & Stone
Education 19 Love Language
7
Bicycle Repairs Allied Cycles Cycletech Hertfordshire
Electricians 17 I & B Electrical 24 MLC Electrical Selmon Electrical Services
Blinds Harpenden Blinds Bouncy Castle Hire St Albans Bouncy Castles Building Contractors JMH Building Contractors Cabinet Makers Sequoia Bespoke Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop Ltd Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services Ltd Pan Auto Services Charity Grove House Hospice Children’s Development Classes Gymboree Play & Music Chiropodist Julia Reading Cleaning Big Yellow Cleaning Company Harpenden Power Wash LA Cleaning Merrivac Mollymaid Murray’s Cleaning Services
38 Financial Management AMR Financial Management 7 Flooring Creative Wood Flooring 9 LP Flooring Funeral Directors 39 LC Weston Funeral Directors 16 Gardening / Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd Garden Life Landscapes 16 17 Garden Nursery / Centre Bridge Valley Nursery Burston Garden Centre 41 Gas K25 7 Health & Fitness Davenport House 19 Health Fair Intelligent Pilates Rosemary Conley Diet 29 & Fitness Classes 31 The Fit Lab 31 29 Hearing Services 31 The Hearing 29 Healthcare Practice Indian Restaurant Shapla Restaurant Insurance NFU Mutual Interior Design Michele Reid Interiors
48 49 49
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Photography I & W Photography
39 39
Plasterer A. Merson Plastering
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Plumbers DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd Master Bathrooms Ltd Prestige Plumbing & Heating Services
33 33
6
3 34 15 & 51 14
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Printer PrintShop
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Property Maintenance Green’s House & Gardens Mr Handyman Nick The Handyman Simply Jobs
35 35 37 37
22 20 21
Security Maximum Security Systems
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19
Tiling Cedar Ceramics
37
Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Services.co.uk
33
Tyre Fitting Big D’s Tyres
17
Window Cleaner Harpenden Window Cleaning
38
Windows & Doors AA Window Repairs Markyate Windows & Doors
11 10
2 2 15
25 41
back cover 38
we have made every effort to ensure that any material published in harpenden now is correct and can accept no liability for any errors or delays in publication or distribution, harpenden now accepts no responsibility for its advertisers.
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