sn April 14 by wendy robertson

st albans

NOW

April

2014

promoting local businesses organisations and events since 2006

choose local first

Look inside for... NOW at the Cathedral

The Big Sing Easter Holiday Fun Consumer Advice NOW The Hoo’s Kids Book Fest Kimpton 50th May Festival

What’s on and more... read ‘the NOW magazines’ monthly

Welcome to April

Whatever you’re up to in St Albans we’re sure you’ll agree that a trip to Verulamium Park to see the herons is a must this month, and then you’ll realise why we couldn't resist this months’ cover picture. Looking for something to do over Easter have a look at our very colourful centre pages with lots to do for all the family. Summer feels like it’s on the horizon, it’s amazing how much happier people are when the sun shines, so get out there and smile at someone today! And of course don’t forget if you need a local What do you think business pick up your of the funky Egg-cellent! copy of ‘st albans NOW’ hairstyle of the crazy or just read it every chick on the cover? month online.

jane & wendy cover picture courtesy of Steve Knell

The Herons Are Back

come & see the chicks

NOW at The Alban Arena

music, ballet & comedy

NOW at the Cathedral 10 tours, Easter services & concerts

Battle of the Bands 12 bands battle for charity

Local Walks 14 town & country walks

Kimpton 50th May Festival 18 wall to wall fun

Abbot’s Kitchen 20 my seasonal dish

Easter Holiday Fun 24 egg-stra special fun

The Big Sing 28 come & sing

To advertise call 07983 588313 / 291 jane@thenowmagazines.com

www.theNOWmagazines.com Deadline for May: 10th April

What’s on in April 34 & May 36 The Hoo’s Kids Book Fest 40 books, books, books

Index of Businesses 46 accountants to windows & doors

To Advertise: 07983 588291 jane@theNOWmagazines.com

The Herons Are Back The popular ‘Date with Nature’ is back in St Albans, offering a chance to get closer to nature with the RSPB. We may have had a winter of rain storms and floods, but that doesn’t stop the grey herons of St Albans returning to the trees on the lake in Verulamium Park, ready for their nesting season. Grey herons lay eggs and raise young earlier than many other birds and so have a difficult job incubating the eggs and keeping their chicks warm, sometimes in sub-zero temperatures. Last year there were seven occupied nests in the park. The RSPB will be situated at the edge of the lake until 28th April, from 10.30am to 4.30pm, to show visitors the fantastic birds. The RSPB has installed a nest camera on the island that will transmit live images of the nests to a television screen at the viewpoint. They also provide telescopes and binoculars and spotter sheets for the kids. Debs Allbrook, RSPB’s Date with Nature Project Officer says: “Although we have had issues with the recent flooding and bad weather, we hope this year that our camera will be able to show visitors close up action of the herons as they raise their young throughout their stay in the park. If all goes to plan and the herons do as we expect them to, visitors should get amazing live, close-up views of the activity and antics of the herons and their offspring.....And we have already counted 13 occupied nests this year with 8 birds sitting on eggs, so it’s looking to be a good year!” www.rspb.org.uk

Photos: Hungry chicks - Malcolm Hunt / Newly hatched chick Genevieve Leaper / Nest building herons - David Tipling

Dawn Chorus Sunday 13th April 5.15am

Few of us appreciate the fantastic chorus of our birds at the start of the breeding season, as the cock birds call to attract a mate, and establish a territory. So it’s definitely worth getting up early to listen to them! ‘Friends of the Nicky Line’ will be joining the Harpenden branch of the RSPB to hear the dawn chorus in the YWAM woods, followed by breakfast at the cafe . Entrance to the site will be from the drive by the bridge in Ambrose Lane, Harpenden, parking at the factory car park. The starts at 5.15am prompt. There is a choice of breakfast, either bacon butties, or continental, please make your choice when booking. Cost is £6 per head, book early as this event is very popular, and numbers are limited! Contact 01582 765443 / 01582 763560

Professional Carpet, Curtain and Upholstery Cleaners

FREEPHONE 0800 298 2840 www.carpetcleaners-stalbans.co.uk/ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Fully trained and insured 18 years experience Safe for children and pets Chemical free techniques are used Approved by David Lister Interiors and Delightful Designs Silk/Persian/Arabic rugs and leather upholstery also cleaned Free quotations or friendly advice Local family run business Stain removal/anti allergy and dust mite treatments

www.theNOWmagazines.com

We even move the furniture and put it back for you! Fast drying times, you can walk on carpets straight away.

Need a helping hand around the house? Do you have visitors coming to stay and not enough time to freshen up your home “Hi Katy before they Just a note to thank arrive? the girls very much Does working for the clean they did life leave you on Thursday. I was no time to very impressed and spruce up wouldn’t hesitate to your home? book again or If the answer recommend to these your services. questions is Thanks” yes, then YES at Domestico Hollie we can help you! Every client is an individual and requires their own personal touch, which is why we arrange a home visit for every client prior to your clean, ensuring we can create a friendly, caring and helpful atmosphere based around you and your family's needs. Our staff are fully insured and employed by us, and we are one big family, with communication being key. We offer weekly, fortnightly and one off cleans to our clients, with customer service being our main priority. No job is too big or too small and we are happy to do added extras that make you feel like we are right for you. So whatever you need and however you want it to be done, call us, our friendly staff are here to help! You can contact us 24 hours a day by phone or email, so please don’t hesitate to do so.

www.theNOWmagazines.com

NOW at the Alban Arena Jimeoin – Yes, Yes, Whatever…?! Thurs 3rd April 7.30pm £17.50 Hilarious world-class stand-up from one of live comedy’s internationally acclaimed masters! Martha Reeves and The Vandellas Fri 4th April 7.30pm £23.50 Featuring hits such as ‘Nowhere To Run’, ‘Jimmy Mack’, and ‘Dancing in the Street.’

Joe Brown in Concert Weds 23rd April 7.30pm £25.50, £23.50 Packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk and rock ‘n’ roll, all interwoven with Joe’s effervescent delivery and humorous reminiscences, this show is a musical journey not to be missed!

Swan Lake Sat 5th April 2.30pm £22.50,concs £18.50 / £14.50 Lavish costumes, stunning scenery, world class dancing, and the glorious music of Tchaikovsky, presented by The Vienna Festival Ballet.

Illegal Eagles Thurs 24th April 7.30pm £24.50, £22.50 Bringing you all the classics, including ‘Hotel California’, ‘Life in The Fast Lane’, ‘Tequila Sunrise’, and many more.

Kate Rusby Thurs 10th April 7.30pm £19.50, concs £14.50 Folk singer Kate Rusby’s wondrous singing, engaging Yorkshire wit and the intuitive support of her band, ensure that you will be treated to a truly unforgettable concert experience.

Alan Davies - Little Victories Fri 25th April 8pm £25 Following the sell-out success of his long-awaited return to stand-up, Alan Davies returns with his highly anticipated follow up show.

Tap Factory Sun 13th April 7.30pm £21.50, £19.50, child £16 Stomp meets Tap Dogs. Their feet have a life of their own, and the rhythm never stops! Featuring the world’s best tap dancers and international musicians, blending percussion, dance and acrobatics. An Evening with Pam Ayres Mon 14th April 7.30pm £20 Pam Ayres comes to The Arena, following the recent publication of her new poetry book, ‘You Made Me Late Again!’, copies of which she will be signing after the show.

We’ve Only Just Begun Wed 16th April 7.30pm £18.50 Close your eyes and re-live the magic of one of the greatest female voices, as Toni Lee becomes Karen Carpenter and sings over 22 hits, including ‘Close To You’, ‘Please Mr Postman’ and ‘Only Yesterday’.

Annie Tues 29th April - Sat 3rd May 7.30pm (Wed / Sat 2pm) £17.50 Presented by St Albans Operatic Society. A poor but kind and determined little orphan in 1930s New York, has only one dream: to find her real parents. When she meets rich and lonely billionaire Oliver Warbucks, it looks as though that dream might finally come true. But vicious orphanage-owner Miss Hannigan, has other plans for the girl’s future, and her own! The Alban Arena www.alban-arena.co.uk 01727 844488

CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

 28 Years Experience  Simple Honest Pricing  Friendly and Reliable  Service You Can Trust

CLEANING COMPANY Carpets - Upholstery - Oriental Rugs Leather Cleaning and Recolouration Carpet Repairs - Anti Dust Mite Soil Protection - Hard Floors Amtico Floors - Stain Removal Call for an Appointment

01582 418777

Domestic Appliance Repairs

before

Washing Machines ● Dishwashers Tumble Driers ● Electric Ovens * No Callout Charges * * All Makes Repaired * * Honest & Reliable Advice * * Full Electrical Safety Tests * * Evening & Weekend Appointments * * All Work Guaranteed *

after

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

www.theNOWmagazines.com

NOW at the Cathedral St Albans Bach Choir Sat 5th April 7.30pm Handel – Israel in Egypt £25, £20, £15 (reserved); £10 (unreserved / concs) Free Tour - More to Explore Sun 6th April 3pm meet at the West End 'What did Lord Grimthorpe ever do for us?' A look at Lord Grimthorpe's 19th Century controversial restoration of St Albans Abbey. Free Family Discovery Morning 10 - 12.30pm Thurs 10th April: 'Let Your Fingers Do the Walking' Explore different materials and textures in the Cathedral with your fingers on this sensory trail. Lunchtime Organ Recital Weds 16th April 12.30pm Michael Papadopoulos, Organ Scholar, St Albans Cathedral, free

Holy Week and Easter Passiontide Service Sun 6th April 6.30am A powerful meditative service of music, poetry and prayer, marking the start of Passiontide. Palm Sunday Procession 13th April 9.30am Meet by the Clock Tower in the High Street for the procession to the Cathedral. Bring a branch or some greenery from home to wave as you walk! Compline and Address 8pm Mon 14th - Weds 16th April Maundy Thursday - Maundy Eucharist 17th April 8pm This service includes the washing of the feet of 12 people, followed by the stripping of all decoration from the altars. A vigil of prayer will be kept until midnight. Good Friday Today we remember Jesus’ death on a cross 18th April Pre-school Children’s Service 10am Good Friday Children’s Event 10am - 1.30pm Craft workshops and activities for children aged 5+. Places must be booked on 01727 860780 Three Hours Devotion 12 noon - 1.30pm: Preaching of the Passion 1.30pm - 3pm: The Liturgy of Good Friday 8pm: Unity at the Cross, a reflective ecumenical service organised by Churches Together in St Albans Easter Eve 19th April On the Saturday, Jesus’ body lay in the tomb. This is a quiet day of preparations for Easter celebrations which start as night falls. Evensong 4pm Easter Vigil 8.30pm This first service of Easter begins quietly in darkness, but ends in joyful light as we greet the risen Christ. Easter Day 20th April On the Sunday Jesus’ disciples found his tomb was empty, then met and ate with the risen Jesus. Parish Eucharist 9.30am / Matins 11.15am / Evensong 6.30pm Easter Monday 21st April Easter Monday Pilgrimage, people, young and old, walk to the Cathedral from across the diocese to meet and gather in the Cathedral from 2pm, service 3pm Cathedral and Abbey Church of St Alban 01727 890283 www.stalbanscathedral.org

The Harpenden Shutter Company We Supply & Fit Beautiful Wooden Plantation Window Shutters Specialising in Bay Windows

Free No Obligation Consultation, Measuring & Quotation

Spring Sale! 25% off Shutters 20% off all Blinds Awnings Poles & Curtains

Teresa & Kevin Buckler

01582 461639 kevin.buckler@fit-ex.com www.fit-ex.com/hertfordshire

M&M Decorating Fully qualified City and Guilds Over 11 years experience All interior and exterior work undertaken Specialist in all types of wallpaper All work finished to a high professional standard Free quotations at competitive prices Matthew Hayden 01727 835244 07970 720911

20 Bewdley Close Harpenden

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Registration Opens in April

Second Battle of St Alban’s - be there! As part of Sandridge900+ the Medieval Siege Society will be re-enacting The Battle on Bernards Heath. 17th & 18th May 10am to 5pm Archery, Craft Displays, Field Market, Living History, Pyrotechnics and a Trebuchet! www.medieval-siege-society.co.uk www.sandridge900.com

Battle of the Bands Sat 5th April 7pm, doors open 6.15pm Adult £12, under 18’s £10 01582 713333 A charity event where local youth bands perform original compositions and covers will be judged by celebrity musicians Harry Judd from McFly and Ed MacFarlane and Edd Gibson both from Friendly Fires. It will seek out the best up and coming local bands and raise money for the Eyes Alight Appeal, set up in 2010 by Izzy Judd and her family. The appeal supports those cared for by the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust (BIRT). Izzy said “Eyes Alight is totally inspired by my brother Rupert who tragically suffered a serious brain injury in 1997 as a result of a car accident. My husband Harry and I are very excited to be collaborating with Harpenden Lions for ‘Battle of the Bands' which will take place on Rupert's birthday in our local town of Harpenden. The event will raise funds for the Eyes Alight Appeal and particularly for Kent House (where Rupert lives) for a much needed extension to their communal living space. We couldn't think of a more fun and appropriate fundraiser and we hope that the Battle of the Bands competition will educate and inspire young local musicians and all for a wonderful cause close to our hearts!” Harpenden Public Halls Southdown Road, Harpenden www.harplions.com

0800 612 1350 See Our Main Advert on Page 2

I & B ELECTRICAL Free Quotes & Competitive Prices PAT

Testing Additional Lights & Sockets Carbon & Smoke Detectors Rewires & Fuse Boxes Security Lighting Periodic Inspections & Testing carried out by our independent NAPIT registered engineer Local to St Albans daytime

evening (6 - 9.30pm)

07861 398 288 01707 262771 www.ib-electrical.co.uk www.theNOWmagazines.com

City & District of St Albans Tour Guide Walks All tickets can be bought from the guide on the day. Meet at the Tourist Information Centre unless otherwise stated, please check the website before setting off.

April Crime and Punishment 5th & 26th @ 2.30 pm A City Revealed 6th, 18th, 21st @ 11am / 27th @ 2.30pm Eat, Drink & Be Merry 6th @ 2.30pm / 20th @11am Inns of Redbourn Meet at Redbourn Common car park 6th @ 2.30pm Verulamium in a Nutshell Meet outside Verulamium Museum 12th @ 2.30pm There’s More to the Tudors than Henry VIII 13th @ 11am / 21st @ 2.30pm Aristocrats, Paupers & Philanthropists 13th, 20th @ 2.30pm / 27th @ 11am 20th Century Architecture in St Albans 18th @ 2.30pm Rags & Riches Meet outside Verulamium Museum 19th @ 2.30pm Tourist Information Centre: 01727 864511 www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

NOW for a local walk Enjoy the countryside on your doorstep with the popular ‘St Albans, Harpenden & Villages Health Walks’. Led by trained volunteers the walks take place whatever the weather, cater to all ages and abilities and are a fantastic way to get more active, have a good natter and improve general wellbeing. Best of all they are completely free! The following walks are planned for the coming months: Highfield Park Mondays 9.30am, Tuesdays 1.30pm Charters Health Club car park, Hill End Lane, opposite Spar Wheathampstead Tuesdays 10.30am Meet at the public car park behind The Bull, East Lane, Wheathampstead, AL4 8BL Verulamium Park Weds 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th April, 7pm Meet outside Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, Holywell Hill, AL1 2DJ Greenwood Park Fridays 2pm Meet outside Greenwood Park Community Centre, Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green Heartwood Forest Sun 27th April 10.30am Meet in Heartwood Forest car park, High Street, Sandridge www.hertslink.org/cms/healthwalks

JB TV SERVICES EST 1960

REPAIRER OF LCD/PLASMA TV/VIDEO/AUDIO/DVD

 REPAIRS TO ALL

MAKES & MODELS  AUTHORISED REPAIRER OF

SONY, JVC, PANASONIC TV/VIDEO/DIGITAL/TUNING/ FREEVIEW INSTALLATION & SET UP

07961 420535

AXIMUM

SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD.

We Install Quality Systems for  Burglar Alarms  CCTV  Access Control We also service, upgrade and maintain existing alarm systems

For a free estimate and consultation please contact us www.maximumsecuritysystems.co.uk 01582 864138 / 07720 089269 We are a family run business with over 35 years experience in home security and crime prevention

www.theNOWmagazines.com

work is found in several major public collections. The exhibition will also reflect on Hughes's other work, and his relationships within the Pre-Raphaelite circle. He was the nephew of a major Pre-Raphaelite painter, Arthur Hughes, and modelled for members of the group. In his early career he spent time in the studio of Holman Hunt, one of the pre-eminent Pre– Raphaelites, who painted ‘The Light of the World’ (Keble College, Oxford), in its time arguably one of the most famous paintings in the world. Hunt went on to make a larger version of ‘The Light of the World’, now in St Paul’s Cathedral, but due to Hunt’s Edward Robert Hughes, Night with her Train of Stars, 1912 failing eyesight it was probably painted mostly by The artist Edward Robert Hughes worked at the heart E R Hughes, who was working in his studio at that of the Pre-Raphaelite circle and was a close associate time. Hughes went on to produce many works in oil of many of its leading members. Hughes lived in No 3 and watercolour as well as book illustrations and Romeland, next door to St Albans Abbey, had his drawings, copies of which will be illustrated in this funeral in the Abbey, and is buried in the Hatfield Road printed panel-based exhibition. St Albans was host, Cemetery. Hughes died on 23rd April 1914, and a in the later years of his life, to an eminent artist who Centenary Commemoration Display of his life and was closely involved with one of the most important work is planned to open on the anniversary of his art movements of the 19th century, but who is little death. known in the City where he lived and died. NB Due to the scarcity and delicate condition of Hughes work, The display, organised with the support of Victoria and the open location, no original material will be shown. Osborne, Curator at Birmingham Museums and a leading authority on Hughes, will remind us of his St Albans Centenary Celebration Display position as a major painter in his own right, who St Albans Cathedral, 23rd April - 6th May exhibited at the Royal Watercolour Society, and whose

The Last Pre-Raphaelite?

Bespoke Framing Service

LEADING ART @ BLOOM 105/107 Victoria Street (Between Stevensons & Cotswolds, opposite Iceland)

St Albans AL1 3TJ

01727 834 391 Bespoke & Ready Mades. Traditional & Contemporary. Canvas Stretching

The widest selection of Frames in the Country! 16

Let us Create a Beautiful Floor For You We Supply and Fit Solid Wood, Engineered Wood, Laminate and Vinyl  Various designs including parquet, herringbone and borders  Re-sand existing floors (95% dust-free)

80% of our Work is from Customer Recommendation Fully Insured For a free consultation 01707 373336 07834 412105 info@creativewoodflooring.co.uk www.creativewoodflooring.co.uk 1 Claudian Place, St Albans Showroom: 12 Garden Ct WGC AL7 1BH

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Kimpton 50th May Festival Friday 2nd - Monday 5th May This years’ Festival promises to be bigger and better with 4 days of action packed events with ‘50’ as the theme. Mary Hyde event organiser and great niece of Ron Hyde the village milkman who started the May Festival 50 years ago says; “I used to ride on the floats as a young girl, so now it’s great to be part of the team that puts on this great festival for future generations” The events start on Friday 2nd May with the Art Show opening night in the 13th century church and an exclusive English Wine Tasting Event hosted by Mark Buckenham of The Wine Society. Also Friday night will see a charity Firewalk on hot coals by some plucky villagers, Kimpton doesn’t do boring! Saturday night’s concert ‘Kimpton Entertains’ has helped launch a few showbiz careers and Sunday night showcases ‘Brains of Kimpton’ while the new ‘Music Night’ has music galore with ‘Modfathers’ providing a great Paul Weller tribute act, supported by other awesome local bands. Children’s activities include fairground rides, candy floss, a football tournament and maypole dancing. Arena events on Saturday include the world famous ‘Titan the Robot’, whose unique blend of comedy, street theatre and music creates a show unrivalled in the world today and has led him to appear alongside superstars including Will.i.am and Rihanna. Step into the future 50 years with an experience you'll never forget. The English School of Falconry Display Team will be offering a unique and truly spectacular show alongside Jazz bands, 10k fun-run, a craft fair, Morris dancers and traditional music sessions – it’s wall-to-wall fun. Make sure you’re part of it! www.kimptonmayfest.co.uk

Verulam Fencing  All Fencing Products  Top Quality Fencing  Repair & Maintenance  Fence Painting & Treatment  Gates & Trellis  All work Guaranteed  Free Quotations  Friendly Reliable Local Service Call Nick 07737 284711 nick.morgan87@googlemail.com

DJ&M

Nick The Handyman

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

and Dishwashers ● Repair Leaking Pipes ● Outside Taps

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

All aspects of Property Maintenance       

Kitchen Fitter Tiling & Carpentry Fencing & Roofing General Brickwork Patios & Driveways Electrical Repairs Painting & Decorating, Inside & Outside No Job too Small Free Estimates References Available Friendly & Reliable Service 07737 284711 nick.morgan87@googlemail.com

www.theNOWmagazines.com

knife). The flavour is excellent but if you are worried and its time consuming, use a satsuma, and take the segments out without the cutting. 3 Bring to the boil a pot of water, and add your lemon zest and two large handfuls of spinach, leave in for approximately 1 minute, then strain the spinach and leave to cool. Adam Msetfi is the new manager of the Abbot’s 4 Mix the juices left from earlier with a small Kitchen cafe in St Albans Cathedral, and this bottle of olive oil and blitz in a blender or with month shares in his own words one of the a stick blender. This gives you an orange and seasonal dishes currently available on their lemon enthused olive oil. menu, why not pop in and try it! 5 The orange zest you need to dry in an oven for around 20 minutes on a low heat. Once Pan Fried Fillet of Sea Bass dry, blitz them in a blender or crush with a served with lemon wilted spinach. pestle and mortar and place aside. This is a lovely seasonal dish using ingredients that hit their prime in spring time! 6 Get a frying pan on the heat, put a generous portion of olive oil and leave to warm up until 2 x 200g fillets of Sea Bass (in high season now!) you see a little bit of smoke from the pan. – be sure to remember to ask for your fish to be 7 Place carefully each fillet of sea bass into the scaled and pin boned, most good fish mongers frying pan, skin down. Make sure if you see it will do this for you curling you give it gentle push to stay down. 2 good handfuls of spinach leaves It needs roughly 1 to 2 minutes on each side (you can get these in most supermarkets, depending on how you like your fish. Once washed and bagged) you turn it add your lemon spinach to the 1 lemon pan, along with some of your enthused oil, (it 2 large oranges will get a bit loud and spitty, so be careful) Olive Oil 8 The spinach only needs to be in until it’s hot, then take it out and place in the centre of the 1 Zest the lemon and keep aside for later. plate. Cut and juice the zested lemon, do the 9 Carefully arrange your orange segments, same with 1 of the oranges. place your fillet of sea bass on top and 2 With the other orange cut off the top and sprinkle with the orange zest powder. bottom and with a sharp knife slowly from top Finally sit back and enjoy your meal... to bottom cut away at the skin and pith. You Abbots Kitchen St Albans Cathedral should have taken a very thin layer of the Sumpter Yard, St Albans orange away with each cut. This exposes the www.abbotskitchen.org raw orange. Carefully slice twice in each Mon - Sat 10am - 4.30pm Sun 1pm - 4.30pm segment to remove each one. (Please be very careful with this as you need a sharp

My Seasonal Dish!

The Alban Bun

The Hot Cross Bun is said to originate in St Albans, where Brother Thomas Rocliffe, a 14th century monk at St Albans Abbey, developed a recipe and distributed the bun to the local poor on Good Friday, starting in 1381. For nearly 700 hundred years, the Alban Bun has been a part of the Easter tradition at St Albans Cathedral and will be available at the Abbot’s Kitchen until Easter Monday, 21st April. The buns are now produced by Redbournbury Mill, once owned by St Albans Abbey. The original recipe is a closely guarded secret, and the baker today stays faithful to the original 14th century recipe, with only a slight addition of some extra fruit. Justin James, Miller at Redbournbury Mill, said “The buns we produce this year will be made from flour ground at the mill, predominantly from wheat grown at Hammonds End Farm in Harpenden. The historic links between mill and abbey are echoed in this truly local product that sees a traditional partnership between farm, mill, bakery and abbey."

www.theNOWmagazines.com

NOW at the Maltings Why is John Lennon Wearing a Skirt? Sat 5th April, 8pm, £10 Edinburgh Festival - Winner of a London Fringe Award. This hilarious award-winning comedy of sexual stereotyping continues to entertain around the world. Till the Pips Squeak Irrational Theatre Fri 11th & Sat 12th April, 8pm, £10 Life takes a sickeningly dark and terrifying turn for Georgie and Lesley as they find themselves driven to their limits by the very people who should care about them, in two visceral and shocking plays by award-winning playwright Jane Fookes. Contains adult language. Pianists’ Spring - The Reuben James Trio Fansofstan Sat 26th April, 8pm, £12.50 Reuben James is a revelation. Just coming up to 21, and still a student at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire, he plays with awe-inspiring technique, great imagination and an abundance of joy. Gospel, blues, hip hop, jazz: it’s a beguiling mix. He wowed them at the Herts Jazz Festival in 2013, and has just been snapped up by drummer Clark Tracey for his new quintet, don’t miss him. We Will Be Free - The Tolpuddle Martyrs Story Thurs 1st May, 8pm, £12/£10 Set against a backdrop of class struggle and industrial unrest in 1834. The extraordinary true story of George and Betsy Loveless, George was a Methodist preacher and the leader of the six Dorsetshire farm labourers who were tried, convicted and condemned to harsh transportation by an oppressive Government. With musical arrangements by folk singer and squeezebox player John Kirkpatrick, puppetry and powerful cartoons and animation. 11+ Alfie Moore Fri 23rd May, 8pm.,£12/£10 Former Humberside Police Sergeant turned stand-up comedian Alfie Moore is tasering his way through the comedy world, arresting audiences with stories of life on the beat that are institutionally funny. Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk www.ticketsource.co.uk/ovo 0844 8700 887 22

NOW at Abbey Theatre Disney High School Musical St Albans Youth Music Theatre 10th - 12th April 7.30pm Matinée: 12th April 2.30pm A stage version of the popular Disney musical. Watch as the students of East High come together to overcome their challenges on this journey of discovery and friendship. Get in touch with your inner Wild Cat and join our cast for an amazing show for all the family! STAJE in Concert St Albans Jazz Ensemble 17th April, 8pm STAJE, the big band directed by Andy Baddaley, are returning for the second time this year, with a wide variety of styles from bigband swing and Latin, to funk, close harmony soul and blues. Tom & Viv by Michael Hastings Company of Ten 24th April - 3rd May, 8pm Matinée: 27th April, 2.30pm It’s Oxford 1915, and American poet T. S. Eliot is captivated by the beautiful but highly-strung Vivienne HaighWood. Their whirlwind romance leads to a tempestuous marriage. But as Tom finds literary acclaim, Viv’s increasingly erratic behaviour becomes harder to endure…

Abbey Theatre Westminster Lodge St Albans AL1 2DL 01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Country Fair Sun 20th - Mon 21st April 11 - 4.30pm Adult £3.50, child £2.50, under 5s - free Stockwood Discovery Centre 01582 548600

Easter Egg Festival 21st April Easter Monday 2 - 5pm The earliest record of eggs being cooked and given to the villagers to celebrate Easter took place during a visit to Chenies Manor by Edward I in 1285. This Easter there will be egg and spoon and sack races and Easter egg spotting throughout the house, alongside entertainer, Dee Ridley, Chenies Manor's resident magician and Mark Garton the "Ultimate Chocolatier" who will be demonstrating his art in the manor kitchen. A great afternoon for all the family to enjoy. www.cheniesmanorhouse.co.uk

Free ‘Play in the Parks’ during the Easter Holidays, just turn up! Monday 7th & 14th April 9.15 - 11.15am Bricket Wood @ Woodbury Field AL2 3QQ 12 - 2pm Colney Heath @ Roestock Park AL4 0QD 2.45 - 4.45pm Cunningham Hill Open Space AL1 5TL Tuesday 8th & 15th April 9.15 - 11.15am Toulmin Drive @ Football pitches AL3 6DX 2.45 - 4.45pm Redbourn Recreation Centre AL3 7PP Wednesday 9th & 16th April 12 - 2pm Marshalswick @ Sherwood Avenue AL4 9QL 2.45 - 4.45pm London Colney @ Morris Park Playing Fields AL2 1JP Thursday 10th & 17th April 9.15 - 11.15am Clarence Park @ Band Stand AL1 4NF 2.45 - 4.45pm Longacres Open Space AL4 Friday 11th & 18th April 9.15 - 11.15am Chiswell Green @ Greenwood Park AL2 3HW 12 - 2pm Sopwell @Marlborough Club AL1 2EF 2.45 - 4.45pm Fleetville Recreation Ground AL1 4QL www.ActiveStAlbans.co.uk

Playing the Dream Sat 12th April 11am free A free 45 minute public theatre by Full House, packed full of exciting characters, magical puppets, music, mayhem and madness! Two talented actors use vibrant storytelling and slap stick humour to delight and entertain old and young alike. The play is set deep in the woods where fairies and sprites laugh, joke and play tricks on passersby. Stockwood Discovery Centre 01582 548600

The Extraordinary Egg Sat 5th April 10.15 & 11.15am Join egg curator Douglas Russell as he cracks open an enormous ostrich egg, revealing the amazing features that allow it to protect life so perfectly. For ages 8+ £3.50, advance booking required Natural History Museum, Tring www.nhm.ac.uk/tring

Easter Eggstravaganza Sat 5th - Mon 21st April 10 - 5.30pm Looking for some egg-stra special activities during the Easter break? If so look no further than a visit to Willows Farm Village with a choc-o-bloc programme of egg-ceptional entertainment for all the family. Shake your bunny tail with the Easter Bunny as he guides you through the Bunny Hop; Revel in the chocolatey treats as a reward for finding the hidden eggs in the Easter Garden; Find the fluffy chicks, the bunnies of Hoppity Hills and all their adorable animal friends in The Farmyard; and lots more. Willows Farm Village, London Colney, St Albans 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com

Cadburys Easter Egg Trails Fri 18th - Mon 21st April 10 - 4pm Put on your wellies, and discover the secrets of the woodland at Ashridge, answer questions along the way to win a yummy chocolate egg. £2.50 per child Ashridge Estate, Moneybury Hill HP4 1LX 01442 851227 Fri 18th - Tues 22nd April 11 - 4pm Complete the trail exploring the Downs and win a yummy Cadburys chocolate egg! There'll be lots of family Easter fun happening too, all in the glorious surroundings of Dunstable Downs. £2 per trail Dunstable Downs Chilterns, Gateway Centre Shop, LU6 2GY 01582 500925 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Easter Basket Making Tues 8th April 10.30 - 12 noon Make your own Easter basket from recycled materials. Older children can learn how to weave a basket from newspaper coils, while younger ones can make a simpler version. We will be using paper, paint, sticky bits and glue – so wear your messy clothes! Call Melissa to book on 07930 222567 or www.facebook.com/honeybeearts Suitable for ages 3 - 12 Harpenden Public Halls Southdown Road, Harpenden

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Have you ever considered writing your life story for your family and close friends? As your writing partner, I will provide guidance with the writing, editing and layout with illustrations, and when the manuscript is complete, produce just the number of copies required in the size and binding of your choice. Whether you are just thinking about it, have already made a start and got stuck, or have completed your manuscript, we have the expertise to help you finish your book.

The Life Story Specialists For more information and a free introductory meeting contact Sally Gray on 01582 861407 biographies@resource24.net www.boundbiographies.com

www.theNOWmagazines.com

In November residents of St Albans were put to the test to see if they really could sing! The challenge was set by T Jae Cole, experienced choir director and professional singer “I wanted to see what the community could really do with their voices! We all sit at home watching shows like The Voice and X-Factor, but what is our talent? I challenged St Albans to prove that together they CAN sing!” T Jae had only five weeks to put a choir together from scratch to sing in the ‘Carols on the Hour’ at St Albans Cathedral in December and it’s still going strong and new members are always welcome. The BIG Sing has already been a BIG success in Essex, London, Milton Keynes and Kent and now has over 600 members. The choirs are open to everyone – you don’t need to have a fantastic singing voice – just bring your enthusiasm! There are no auditions – the weekly rehearsals are very relaxed but most of all fun! The songs taught are pop, motown, contemporary, inspirational, soul and gospel. All with uplifting and motivating lyrics! We aim to unite people with music and have seen the choir members grow in confidence, experience the thrill of performing on stage, make new friends and belong to a new choir family. There are also advanced choirs (The BIG Sing Pro), children's choirs (LITTLE Sing), Singing groups for babies and tots (TINY Sing), school choirs, and corporate singing choirs. T Jae has worked with communities, schools and universities around the UK. He is also a well established session singer and has worked with Westlife, Dappy (N-Dubz), Blur, Florence & the Machine, Tina Turner and Tom Jones. The BIG Sing in St Albans takes place every Wednesday at: Abbey CE VA Primary School, Grove Road, 7pm - 9pm, £5 per week, pay as you go. Don’t miss out on The BIG Sing – let’s show our community that together we really CAN sing!! 01376 512292 www.big-sing.com

ART CLASSES FOR KIDS!

Holiday Workshops and Term Time Classes in ST ALBANS

www.fineart4kids.com

07949 293463

Do you have a skill or interest you would like to share with primary school children? We deliver a wide range of exciting after-school activities and need leaders who want to share their passion with children, anything from

Crosswords to Cupcakes, Sudoku to Science Experiments, Music to Maths. Latin, Sports, Maths, English, Science and Media Skills are particularly welcome. Short and long term opportunities available. Further details and rates of pay are available on our website. www.spiral.herts.sch.uk admin@spiral.herts.sch.uk Mandeville Primary School, St Albans & Chaulden Junior School, Hemel Hempstead

Spiral of Success for Pupils!

share their expertise with children. “We are looking for Suduko and Two Herts primary schools are planning crossword enthusiasts to introduce a new approach to exciting changes to their curriculum. Maths and English, First Aid and Mandeville (St Albans) and Chaulden Cookery enthusiasts” added Juniors (Hemel) work in partnership as Cherry Newby, Headteacher of Spiral Academies Trust; they plan to extend their curriculum to offer a diverse Chaulden Junior School. Cathy Longhurst, Headteacher of range of skills and activities to pupils. Mandeville is keen to use the opportunity “We recognise that there is so much to add new subjects to the curriculum. more our curriculum can offer” “I’m very excited about having the commented ExecHead, Amanda opportunity to teach Latin, which is a Godfrey, “We want pupils to have the fascinating language to learn and a opportunity to try something new and wonderful foundation for understanding have time to learn from experts with a so much more about the world”. real passion for their subjects”. This innovative approach offers older children Spiral Academies Trust is now recruiting a wide range of specialist teachers and the opportunity to learn in a different coaches to provide their innovative way; when the traditional school day curriculum and is keen to hear from finishes at 3.15pm older pupils stay for potential teachers with traditional and an extra hour working with new staff. “The end of the day will not just be ‘more non-traditional backgrounds who can offer their skills and talents. school’ but a very different approach, taught by a fresh range of enthusiasts”. Anyone interested should visit Spiral is recruiting leaders who want to www.spiral.herts.sch.uk/working-with-us

www.theNOWmagazines.com

wants my business and is prepared to offer a reduced price to the one I’ve been quoted already. The whole job takes about an hour, but it’s an hour well spent if you’ve saved £50 or more. You also need to consider cashback sites like ‘Quidco’ to see if you can save further money by taking insurance out Jonathan Vernon-Smith is the Sony Award through them. Armed with all the information, I call my winning mid-morning show presenter for existing insurance company and let the negotiations BBC Three Counties Radio. During his begin. I opt for the “if you’re thinking of leaving us” consumer hour he helps listeners with their number and explain that I’ve been a customer of theirs for consumer problems and now shares his some time and am rather disappointed that they are advice here with you. expecting me to pay more for my insurance. I tell them I’ve found another company that will beat their price. I How to Get the Best Car Insurance Deal If you’re like me, you will find car insurance renewal time ask them to see what’s the best price they can offer me (I never make the mistake of showing my hand at this one of the most irritating experiences. With every passing year I get a little older, a little more mature, a little point). 9 times out of 10 they come back with a price that’s even better than the best price you’ve found from more experienced behind the wheel, I NEVER make a claim and yet my insurance company feel it’s acceptable the alternative company, but if not, you’ve then got that up your sleeve. to ask me to pay a more. Why? Well they hope that While I’m on the subject of car insurance: most customers are too busy to quibble over an 1. Add another responsible driver to your policy. additional £30. They hope we’ll just put the letter aside Insurance companies consider you to be a lower risk if and allow it to renew automatically. you’re married or in a partnership and put your other half The fact is if you haven’t made a claim or changed your on the policy. circumstances, you should expect your insurance to go 2. Consider protecting your no claims bonus. If you are DOWN not UP. Therefore it’s very important that the unfortunate enough to have to make a claim, this will savvy consumer ensures this happens. Let me explain prevent the policy from soaring. how I do it. 3. Take the motor legal protection cover. In a dispute it When I receive my renewal notice, I go online and use can be invaluable. Probably the best £25 you’ll ever some of the comparison websites (‘Go Compare’ and spend. ‘Money supermarket’ being just two). I put in my details 4. Try to accurately predict your annual mileage. There’s and see if I can beat the renewal price. Please only no point in you being insured for the risk of driving 20,000 compare with good, reputable insurance companies. There are always some (that no-one’s ever heard of) that miles a year if in fact you only drive 2,000. come back with a price that’s very reasonable. Life is too 5. Be honest with your insurance company. Lying may save you money initially, but if you get caught out, your short to have car insurance from a useless company insurance will be invalidated and you’ll face a MASSIVE though, so don’t make this mistake. I then get quotes bill! Happy motoring! from companies that are NOT on price comparison Why not tune in weekdays from 9am websites, e.g. ‘Direct Line’ & ‘Privilege’. Without fail, I always find an insurance company that

Consumer Advice NOW

“Father, Godfather & Gardener” Sunday 27th April 3.30pm St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3HG An afternoon of Baroque music by Bach, Telemann, Handel and more to raise funds to establish a music department at Alban City Free School, St Albans' newest primary school. Four distinguished musicians will be presenting an afternoon of delightful Baroque music on historical instruments. Mum at the school Kati Debretzeni, leader of both the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and the English Baroque Soloists, joins forces with three well-known musicians, soprano Jaqueline Dias, counter tenor Richard Wynn-Rogers, cellist Poppy Walshaw and harpsichordist Katharine May. Come and join us to discover why Handel, Bach and Telemann are dubbed "Father, Godfather and the Gardener" of the music world! Tickets: adult £9, concs £7.50, under 12’s free From the school office: 7 Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 3RR 07854 111636 pta@albancityschool.herts.sch.uk

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Alban Way Mural

Lego Exhibition Sat 26th April 10am - 5pm The Lea School Association are hosting it's exciting annual LEGO Exhibition to raise funds for the school. There will be loads of Lego activities for kids of all ages, Fantastic Lego models on display, ‘Build your own’ competition, face painting and much more... £3 in advance, £4 on the door, under 2’s free Enter the Lego competition to ‘Build your own Creation’ which will be displayed for all to admire and vote for at the exhibition. Visit the website for more information and tickets The Lea Primary School, Harpenden www.lea-pri.herts.sch.uk/f_pta.htm

Come to a fun, family event on Saturday 19th April and see the art work in a new street art community mural on the Alban Way. You can take part in creative activities, get your bike safety checked and learn about the old railway that once ran along the Alban Way. The event will take place from 12 noon to 3pm at the Alban Way entrance on Orient Close, AL1 1JD. Young people from the Cunningham Hub Youth Café will be there to celebrate their art work on the tunnel under London Road. Accompanied by a professional artist, they will be asking for feedback on the new mural. During the afternoon, you can join an off-road bike ride for families along the Alban Way to the outskirts of Hatfield. For more information melissa.caneppele@leisureconnection.co.uk

Justin Leon Garden Maintenance All Aspects of Gardening Undertaken

Including Decking Overhaul Patio Washing & Repair Also offering Painting and Decorating

07789 961233

www.theNOWmagazines.com

What’s on in April 34

2nd Abbey by Night St Albans Cathedral www.stalbanscathedral.org 3rd Jimeoin – Yes, Yes, Whatever...?! see page 8 Bach’s John Passion St Johns Church, Harpenden, 01582 462024, Amici Voices, 7.30pm, adult £15, child £5 4th Martha Reeves & The Vandellas see page 8 Folk at the Maltings Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans, 0844 870 0887, 8pm, adult £10 5th St Albans Bach Choir see page 10 The London Welsh Male Voice Choir High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden, 01582 766797 eves only, £20, 7pm Swan Lake see page 8 5th & 26th Walk: Crime & Punishment see page 14 6th More to Explore Tour: What did Lord Grimthorpe ever do for us? see page 10 French Market Hatfield House, 10am 8th & 9th Charlie & Lola’s Best Bestest Play Watford Colosseum, £12 & £13.50 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 9th - 11th Around the World in 80 Days Hawthorne Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 2pm & 6.30pm, £14, concs £9 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk 10th Matt Richardson Hometown Hero Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 8pm, £10 10th - 12th High School Musical see page 22 11th The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Show Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 7.30pm UB40 see page 8 12th Charity Quiz Night Soroptimist Women's Group, Homewood Road Church Hall, 7.15pm, fish & chip supper £12.50, max 8 per team, in aid of International Peace Initiatives - a Kenyan charity transforming the lives of girls & HIVpositive women www.ipeacei.org 12th & 13th East of England Food Festival Knebworth House, 10 - 5pm www.knebworthhouse.com 13th - 15th Hansel & Gretel Hawthorne Theatre, WGC, 01707 357117, £12, family £40 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

14th Soroptimist Women's Group Meeting Greenwood Park Community Centre, learn about the St Albans Food Bank, 7.45pm www.sigbi.org/st-albans 16th Display: Singapore St Mary's Church, Childwickbury, St Albans Harpenden & District Philatelic Society, visitors welcome, 8pm p.mellor@btinternet.com 18th & 19th Easter Trail Knebworth House 11 - 5pm www.knebworthhouse.com 18th - 20th Harpenden Fun Fair Harpenden Common 19th Alban Way Mural Celebrations see page 32 19th & 20th Easter Art & Craft Show Redbourn Village Hall, work by local artists 20th Classic Car Show & Auto/Aero Jumble Shuttleworth Old Warden Park, Nr Biggleswade, Beds www.shuttleworth.org Famers Market Hatfield House www.hatfield-house.co.uk 20th & 21st Jousting @ Knebworth www.knebworthhouse.com 23rd April - 5th May Exhibition: E R Hughes see page 16 24th Illegal Eagles see page 8 25th Amalfi String Quartet Rothamsted Institute, Harpenden, 01727 731000, in aid of Grove House, £20 Bouncers & Shakers Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 324300 www.barntheatre.co.uk 26th Gloria! High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden, 07834 484989, Harpenden Music Makers & The Concentus Brass Ensemble, 7.30pm, adult £12, student £5 www.harpendenmusicmakers.co.uk The Live Music Project The Tuesday Club + The Vulz + Chameleon Boy + Dodo Bones, Trestle Arts Base, St Albans, 01727 850950, 7.30pm, free, 14+ 26th & 27th Working Heavy Horses Chilterns Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles, meet heavy horses Joshua, Samuel & Harvey, who live & work at the Museum www.coam.org.uk 27th Lanwarne at Burstons see page 42 29th April - 3rd May Annie see page 8

www.theNOWmagazines.com

What’s on in May 36

1st Lecture Series: 'Herbs and Witchcraft - the Facts behind the Fiction', Verulamium Museum, 01727 751810, 7.30pm, £8 1st - 4th St Albans Film Festival see page 40 4th RAF Sprint Triathlon www.renniegrove.org Beating the Bounds Walk: starts Kingsbury Watermill, St Michael’s Street, led by the Mayor & follows the medieval town boundary, 2pm, free More to Explore Tour St Albans Cathedral, 3pm, free 5th May Day Celebrations British Schools Museum, Hitchin, 10.30am - 12.30pm www.hitchinbritishschools.co.uk Brass & Organ Spectacular Tom Winpenny St Albans Cathedral, 01727 890290, 1pm, free 8th - 11th Living Crafts at Hatfield House 10 - 5pm 9th Folk at the Maltings Maltings Arts Theatre, 01727 864511, 8pm, £10, £8 10th The Grand Vintage Fair The Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street, 01582 831481, 10 - 4pm Orchestral Colours Rimsky-Korsakov 'Scheherezade' by St Albans Symphony Orchestra, St Saviour's Church, 01727 857422 Theatre Organ Concert St Albans Organ Museum, 03003 65 65 65, 7.30pm, £10 10th & 11th Arts For Herts Markets St Albans Town Hall, 10 - 4pm www.artsforhertsmarkets.co.uk 11th Musical Sunday Afternoon St Albans Organ

Theatre, 03003 65 65 65, 2pm, £5 13th Jon Richardson: Nidiot The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 8pm , £19.50 14th Lunchtime Organ Recital St Albans Cathedral, 01727 890290, 12.30pm, free The Solid Silver 60s Show The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 7.30pm, £26.50, £24.50 15th - 24th 'Round and Round The Garden' by A Ayckbourn, Abbey Theatre, 01727 857861 16th Grumpy Old Women The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 8pm, £20 17th An Evening of Burlesque The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 8pm, £22 17th & 18th Re-enactment of 2nd Battle of St Alban’s see page 12 18th Lanwarne at Burstons see page 42 St Albans Charity Cycle Ride www.saccr.co.uk Brian Conley The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 8pm, £22.50 19th - 24th Dreamboats & Petticoats The Alban Arena 24th Organ Recital St Albans Cathedral, 01727 890290, 5.30pm, free 24th & 25th Herts County Show www.hertsshow.com 29th Family Discovery Morning St Albans Cathedral, 10am - 12.30pm, free

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Wellbeing - The Case for ‘Hearing Well’

Of all our senses hearing is the most important; always on, always alert, always at the disposal of others. Hearing is our shared Social Sense that others regularly rely on, expecting us to hear them first time, accurately. Hearing well feeds our curiosity, logic and emotions. It’s the nourishment our brain craves to form a response. Hearing well provides us an opportunity to help others, shape opinion, create reaction and challenge ideas. It drives business, Hearing relationships, love and life. check-ups

are the only way of being confident that you’re hearing well, catching every nuance in every conversation

We all know our hearing changes throughout life, so gradually that we don’t even know we missed that all important comment or insightful aside. It’s always nice to be involved, to be part of the action but a small change in hearing creates subtle changes in our personality and affects our wellbeing. This minor shift can have a major impact if left unchecked.

helps keep a brain healthy too as we strengthen areas of the brain through frequent use and stimulation. Science is lifting the lid on the wonders of how the brain functions and our interaction with the world around us. Studies have identified how links between the parts of our brain responsible for hearing and listening work seamlessly in partnership with areas that look after memory and concentration. There is sufficient evidence to link reduced hearing ability and an increased risk of memory loss. So you can see it’s really important to maintain healthy hearing. Apart from a rudimentary check whilst at school you probably haven’t thought about having your hearing checked now that you’re all grown up. You probably benefited from school dental check up’s and eye tests which you have carried on into adulthood. Hearing check-ups are the only way of being confident that you’re hearing well, catching every nuance in every conversation.

Staying in control of your wellbeing is the foundation of a healthy life. At Harpenden’s renowned Hearing Healthcare Practice we recommend routine hearing checks throughout life Our sense of hearing is one of only a limited so that you can be confident you are hearing well at number of routes we use to get information from the all times. Our complimentary hearing check-up will world around us into the deepest recesses of our confirm that you are hearing well and on top of any mind. The brain relies on our senses providing subtle change. But if you’re already aware that your ongoing stimulation, especially hearing and vision. hearing range has shifted, you should book in for a When the brain doesn’t get the nourishment it full detailed assessment so that you guarantee your needs the structure of our brain physically changes. inclusion with everyone else who is hearing well. Sometimes one area of the brain will take over In Business. In Leisure. In Life. Hearing Well. another that may be no longer “pulling its weight”. Recent research findings have discovered at other Contact Hearing Healthcare Practice in Harpenden on 01582 767218 or info @hearinghealthcare.co.uk times an area of the brain will shrink due to lack of sensory nourishment. We know that regular exercise is the best way to keep us healthy and well. We now know that this

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Explore a magical world of books The annual Hoo’s Kids Book Fest has confirmed yet another impressive line-up for their celebration of literature at the magical Luton Hoo Walled Garden on Sunday 11th May. The festival, now in its third year, crams a feast of family fun into just one day and audiences can expect to see some of the biggest names in children’s books bringing storytelling to life with pirates, beasts and stripemongers... This year you can meet two of the UK's most acclaimed writers for Young Adults; Robert Muchamore, author of the bestselling Cherub series and award-winning Sophie McKenzie, who has won the prestigious Red House Book Award as well as Richard and Judy's Best Kids Books. Younger readers have the chance to see Jim Smith, author of the ribtickling Barry Loser and winner of the 2013 Roald Dahl Funny Prize. Join the birthday celebrations with Miffy who turns 70 this year and Kipper who is 25. And to commemorate WW1, children can plant poppies in the walled gardens. There's also a spotlight on comics with talented

teen Zoom Rockman hosting two workshops alongside publisher The Phoenix Comic. Zoom was named as one of the 'brightest young talents' in London as part of the Evening Standard's list of the hottest 25 under 25s. Meet the illustrator Hannah Marks, cut paper artist Vanessa Stone and author Dawn Finch all from Hertfordshire. Add to this a host of familyfriendly activities including tree painting, wigwam building and visits from popular children’s characters and you have the perfect day out for all the family. Meet the authors, discover new books or try your hand at drawing, there’s something for all ages. Whether you're after slapstick humour, crime solving or live drawing, you'll find it all in this magical day. Oh, and you can find out just what a stripemonger really is... Tickets from WH Smith's, Harpenden and Oxfam, St Albans. Money raised assists in the restoration of the Walled Garden. Luton Hoo Walled Garden Sun 11th May 10.30 - 5pm www.hoosbookfest.org www.lutonhoo-walledgarden.co.uk

The St Albans Film Festival is returning for its 2nd year and promises to be even bigger and better. Filmmakers both local and from across the globe will showcase their talent and receive recognition in the form of festival selection and the opportunity to win awards and cash prizes. Film-lovers will have a chance to see some unique and fantastic films and to celebrate the superb filmmaking history of St Albans. What to expect: Film Premières - Workshops - Talks from Respected names in Film Networking Events - Entertainment - Family Screenings - and lots more www.stalbansfilmfestival.com

www.theNOWmagazines.com

April in the garden

beds, taking care to avoid new shoots. Trees, shrubs and hedges will benefit from an application of balanced fertiliser over the root area and forked into the soil surface. This will help young, damaged or weak plants. Mulch rose and shrub beds with a 5-7.5cm layer of well rotted manure or wood chip to help retain moisture during dry periods, reduce weeds and over time improve the soil. Deadhead pansies, primroses, primulas and other spring flowering plants to encourage further flowers. Turn over borders to prevent weeds from spreading and seeding themselves. Planting This month hardy annuals can be sown in pots and if the weather permits, put straight into warm, moist ground. Consider annuals such as Echium, photo courtesy of Miroslav Vajdić Helichrysum, Cornflower, Sweet pea and Honeywort. It isn’t too late to plant summer flowering bulbs and April’s mixed weather with showers and hopefully herbaceous perennials such as Geranium, Astrantia, sunshine means a variety of weather related Delphiniums and Oriental poppies. Firstly prepare the maintenance. The heavy rain showers we have been soil by forking in horticultural grit or sharp sand to experiencing have washed away the nutrients from ensure adequate drainage to prevent the bulbs from the soil. Fertiliser should be applied to replace these rotting. lost nutrients. During dry or windy spells you may Early in the month, you can still move and plant need to water newly planted beds. Tender plants and evergreen trees and shrubs, provided the soil is not new shoots should be protected during any cold spells waterlogged. However if April is predicted to be with horticultural fleece. Be aware: April frosts may warm, it would be better to wait until the autumn, as scorch Acer leaves and brown Magnolia flowers. the plants may struggle to establish in their new General maintenance location. Happy Gardening! Apply a general purpose fertiliser to borders and James Lanwarne, Lanwarne Landscapes

www.theNOWmagazines.com

With the harsh wet winter finally behind us many of us are now turning our attention to the garden. Our lawns have taken a severe battering over the last few months and are desperately in need of some TLC. Supagrass have been at the forefront of lawn treatment for over 5 years and offer services including fertilising, weed killing, moss control, scarification and hollow tine aeration Supagrass really can help you get your garden looking great - a leaf clearing service and patio cleaning are also on offer. Mitchell Clement set up Supagrass in 2008 and has a background of 13 years in the lawn treatment business. With three branches in total, the company covers North London, Hertfordshire, Surrey and the Thames Valley. Mitchell described his business as reliable, efficient and personable and said he was supremely confident customers will not be disappointed. He explained: “We always try and give customers what they want and do our best to achieve it, no matter how long it takes. Even though we have in excess of 2000 customers, directors still go out and do surveys and meet the customer. Having a personal interest is the only way to do it.” With a background in the service industry, Mitchell began working in lawn treatment after helping his father who owned a lawn treatment franchise but had little support from the franchisor. So he decided to open his own business in 2008. He said: “I wanted the support I felt we deserved. I thought I know how to give service so I’ll do it myself. Directors go and do 90 per cent of our quotes and estimates and we try and accommodate customers’ requirements where possible. We do believe we give a better service.” There’s even more reason to start using Supagrass - If you book two patio cleans in 12 months, you’ll receive a 15 per cent discount. Existing customers who recommend a friend get £20 once he or she is signed up – that offer is on going Mitchell said: “Before our treatment most of the lawns I see are full of moss, weed or are sparse – most need a bit of TLC. Everybody likes a nice lawn. With a relatively inexpensive treatment, lawns can be vastly improved.” For more information go to www.supagrass.co.uk or call 020 8365 9955

www.theNOWmagazines.com

Index of Businesses

Accountant / Book Keeper Kate Hannaby Books TaxAssist Accountants

26 26

Aerial Installations Concorde Aerials

Beauty Skin & Tonic

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

Biographer Bound Biographies

Bowling Club Batchwood Hall Bowling Club

Cabinet Makers Sequoia Bespoke

Carpentry / Joinery Chris Smyth Children’s Art Classes FineArt4Kids! Chiropodists Kathy Witchard Cleaning Big Yellow Cleaning Company Carpet Brite ChemDry Daily Poppins Domestico Domestique Linda & Karen Cleaning Services Murray’s Cleaning Services WellShine Counselling / Sex Therapy Michael Stock

17 28 33 9 5 5 4 7 6 9 5 3 33

Dance & Drama Stagecoach Theatre Arts

Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

Education Mandeville Primary School Electricians Alban Electrical Services I & B Electrical MLC Electrical Sol Projects Ltd Fencing Verulam Fencing Flooring Creative Wood Flooring

Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorating

11 11

Photographers I & W Photography

Picture Framing Leading Art @ Bloom

Plasterer A. Merson Plastering

13 13 13 2 & 13

Flower Arranging Workshops The Flower School 47 Garden Centre Burston Garden Centre

Gardening / Landscaping Garden Life Landscapes Justin Leon Lanwarne Landscapes Supagrass

45 33 42 44

Gardening Workshops Zia’s Gardening Workshops

Gas K25

Glassware Repairs Chipped Glassware

Golf Club Verulam Golf Club

Health & Fitness The Fit Lab

Hearing Services The Hearing Healthcare Practice

Hot Tubs A5 Hot Tubs

Insurance NFU Mutual

back cover

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

19 & 47

Pond Maintenance Maltby Aquatics Women With Waders

42 42

Property Maintenance Nick The Handyman

Removals TS Removals

Security Maximum Security Systems

Shutters The Harpenden Shutter Company

Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Services.co.uk

TV Repairs JB TV Services

Windows & Doors AA Window Repairs Cloudy2Clear Markyate Windows & Doors Sash Restorations Ltd

19 21 23 23

will soon allow you to search for a fallen Service man or woman and remember them with a personal dedication. Sign up and be proud to support our service men for today, tomorrow and for as long as they need us. Commemorating the Fallen of WW1 The inspiration for this came from a 14 year old Join The Royal British Legion, working with school girl, who on a tour of the Battlefields said Commonwealth War Graves Commission, to keep the memory of those lost in the First World “...lt was a shame for some people to have War alive for future generations. They would like dozens of poppies while others had no-one to remember them...” every one of those 1.1 million men and women Please be a part of this act of remembrance and from across the Commonwealth to be visit www.everymanremembered.org remembered by those alive today. The website We have made every effort to ensure that any material published in st albans NOW is correct and can accept no liability for any errors or delays in publication or distribution, st albans NOW accepts no responsibility for its advertisers .

DJ&M PLUMBING SERVICES LTD ●

●

Complete

●

Bathroom, Cloakroom, Shower Room and Kitchen Installations

●

Local Family Run Business, Over 30 Years Experience

●

Honest and Reliable Service Free Consultation/ Quotation for all Enquiries

●

Tiling Plastering Electrical

●

Discounts On All Bathrooms Supplied

Electric and Power Showers 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 07830 159010 info@djmplumbing.co.uk

01727 764217 www.djmplumbing.co.uk

THE FLOWER SCHOOL “Come and be Creative with Flowers”

Flowers and foliage provided for every workshop. Just bring yourself! ‘FABULOUS FLOWERS FOR YOUR HOME’ FLORISTRY COURSE Five week course running on five Thursday evenings in the calm and relaxing atmosphere of the Victorian Schoolroom at Childwickbury, using stunning early summer flowers! 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd May & 5th June 7.30 - 9.30pm £145 ‘CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW' INSPIRED FULL DAY WORKSHOP Back by popular demand, a glorious relaxing day immersing yourself in stunning flowers. Sat 10th May 10 - 3pm Childwickbury. Delicious lunch included! £80 "PERFECT PEONIES" WORKSHOPS We all love peonies and June is the perfect time to create something wonderful with these luscious flowers. Weds 18th June 7.30pm - 9.30pm Victorian Schoolroom, Childwickbury £35 Fri 20th June 10 - 12 noon The Flower School £35 ‘FLOWERS AT OXFORD’ Day trip to an inspirational floral extravaganza. Fri 22nd August 9.30am - 6pm £56 (see website for full details)

07906 655641 anita.lindeman@ntlworld.com www.theflowerschoolstalbans.co.uk