st albans NOW Feb 18

st albans February 2018

NOW

February Fun Out of Town Snowdrops Galore NOW for some Art Spotlight on History NOW at the Alban Arena What’s on & lots more promoting local businesses, organisations and events since 2006

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To Adv

Welcome to February We love February, it feels like the New Year is in full swing, as we start to really enjoy what the year has to offer.

This year’s all about changes and life decisions in our houses, as like many of you, we both have teenagers sitting important exams, and although stressful it’s exciting to see them grow and move forward with their lives. The same can be true for us, life’s a journey and staying the same isn't really an option, as the Greek philosopher Heraclitus said “There is nothing permanent except change”. So if you’re thinking of a new challenge, career or sport for 2018 maybe today is the day to get started.

If there’s something you need, or want doing don’t forget to have a look through the magazine to see if some of our local businesses can help.

Jane & Wendy 07983 588291 jane@theNOWmagazines.com www.theNOWmagazines.com To be in the March editions just email jane@theNOWmagazines.com

Deadline: 10th Feb

NOW at the Alban Arena

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music, comedy & chat

NOW for some Music

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classical, folk & rock

Out of Town 14 aviation, butlers & comics

February Fun 24 for all the family

Do Something for Charity 26 thinking of others

NOW for some Nature 28 conservation and more

Snowdrops Galore 30 carpets of white

Spotlight on History 32 history talks

NOW at the Local Theatres 34 drama for everyone

Out and About 36 time to get fit

NOW for some Art 40 photography, pottery & painting

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

To Advertise: 07983 588291 jane@theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW at the Alban Arena Suggs: What a King Cnut 1st Feb 7.30pm He’s treading the boards again with a new show, fame is a tightrope and Suggs has fallen off many times, but takes solace in the words of the Greek philosopher, Blondie: ‘The tide is high, but I’m holding on…’

Ben Portsmouth: Taking Care of Elvis 2nd Feb 7.30pm Multi-talented musician, singer and songwriter and the World’s Number One Elvis Tribute Artist.

St Albans Gang Show 7th - 10th Feb 7.30pm Uplifting and spine tingling songs, energetic dance and comedy sketches performed by over 110 local Scouts, Guides and Young Leaders.

Menopause the Musical 13th Feb 7.30pm Hysterical and uplifting, this show will have you laughing, and singing, all the way home.

Richard Herring: Oh Frig, I’m 50!

22nd Feb 7.30pm Richard gets to the half century and looks at how his life has changed in the last decade, from irresponsible, single kidult, literally fighting his way through a mid-life crisis, to married father who is mid-way to the telegram from the Queen.

Fairport Convention 24th Feb 7.30pm Making great music for over fifty years, the band are credited with originating British folk-rock music and today they still retain a passion for live performance.

An Evening With Ant Middleton 25th Feb 7.30pm Adventurer, survival expert, TV presenter and ex-elite forces soldier, Ant shares his experiences and exploits as a modern day explorer and expedition leader. His appetite for adventure and extremes has led him to take on amazing challenges, both in the military and in his TV roles (SAS: Who Dares Wins, Mutiny and Escape).

Ed Byrne: Spoiler Alert 27th Feb 8pm Is life that bad or do we have good reason to Film: The Greatest Showman (cert u) complain about it? Are we filled with righteous 14th Feb 1.30pm & 7.30pm anger at a world gone wrong or are we all just a Celebrating the birth of show business this musical tells of a visionary who rose from nothing bunch of whiny little brats? In short, are we spoiled? Come and watch as Byrne takes this to create a spectacle that became a worldwide question, turns it upside down and shakes it until sensation. the funny falls out. Go on, spoil yourself.

An Audience with Frank Bruno Paul Young 15th Feb 7.30pm 28th Feb 7.30pm An evening of conversation with Frank Bruno Paul shot to fame with number one single hosted by comedian and entertainer Jed Stone ‘Wherever I Lay My Hat’. With the release of his All Star Superslam Wrestling second album and the success of “Every Time 17th Feb 7.30pm You Go Away” his status as a world star was A night of top action for all the family. confirmed. 2016, saw Paul release his brand new album “Good Thing”. Paul has recorded a The Classic Rock Show collection of Memphis Soul tunes and this will be 18th Feb 7.30pm Celebrating legendary performances by the likes his first soul album in 20 years.

01727 844488 of Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), The Alban Arena AL1 3LD Mark Knopfler. The classic rock fan’s ultimate live www.alban-arena.co.uk juke box.

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NOW at St Peters Church

NOW at the Cathedral Epiphany & Candlemas Carol Service 4th Feb 6.30pm Service of music and readings, with Abbey Girls’ Choir and men of the Cathedral Choir.

Lunchtime Organ Recital 7th Feb 12.30pm Ash Wednesday 14th Feb 8pm Choral Eucharist with imposition of ashes, marking the start of the season of Lent .

Family Discovery Morning: Romans and Saxons 15th Feb 10am - 12.30pm Free What was it like to be a Roman or a Saxon? Find out more on this exciting trail around the Cathedral.

Hertfordshire Chorus 17th Feb 7.30pm Beethoven - Mass in C Mendelssohn - Choral Symphony No 2 Hymn of Praise.

Taizé Service 18th Feb 6.30pm Instrumental music, meditation and singing.

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People 35th Anniversary Service 21st Feb 7pm Service giving thanks to all involved in the charity’s work.

Classical Guitar Recital 24th Feb 1pm Michael Butten performs English, German, Spanish and Italian Classics by Dowland, Legnani, Bach, Arnold and Turina. Free St Albans International Organ Festival Organ Concert 24th Feb 5.30pm Peter Holder, Sub-Organist, Westminster Abbey St Albans Cathedral Music Trust Young Musicians Competition Finals 25th Feb 1.30pm Performances by talented, local young musicians. www.stalbanscathedral.org

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Messy Church 2nd Feb / 2nd March A fun and informal way for families to enjoy church with ‘Messy Toddler’ for under 5s and ‘Messy Church’ for under 11s.

Held monthly on Friday mornings, term time only, 10am -11.30am.

Children can enjoy being in church in a fun, relaxed (and Messy) way. The session starts with a short bible-themed story followed by crafts and ends with songs and a prayer.

Tea on Tuesday 13th Feb 2.30pm - 4pm Afternoon tea and chat in the Octagon Church Supper Night 28th Feb 7.15pm Held once a term, and open to all who would like to be more a part of St Peter’s community. It’s a simple supper with wine, a sociable time, often with a presentation or activity and discussion followed by a short service.

St Peters Church St Peter's Street AL1 3HG 01727 855485 www.stpeterschurch.uk.com

Jumble Sale 24th Feb 2pm - 5pm All proceeds go to St Michael's Primary School, clothes, toys, books and bric-a-brac. Refreshments available Entrance 50p, children free St Michael's Primary School St Albans AL3 4TA

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NOW for some Music

Maltings Arts Theatre Alden, Patterson and Dashwood with Julian Mount and Rose Ford 2nd Feb 8pm Folk / Americana trio Alden, Patterson and Dashwood are influenced by folk traditions from both sides of the Atlantic, with uplifting instrumentals and self-penned songs depicting tales of young travellers, sleepy seas and their affection for home. The trio weaves rich vocal harmonies, fiddle, dobro, guitar and mandolin around beautifully written original songs and melodies.

Julian Mount is passionate about folk, roots and playing the acoustic guitar. His songs are thought provoking, full of wit and highlight his quirky perspective on people, places and situations.

New Roots 2017 finalist Rose Ford is a singer/ songwriter who songs are inspired by nature, stories and writers, including TS Eliot and Arthur Ransome. £12 / £11 / £7.50 Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans AL1 3HL www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk

Carillon Chamber Choir

de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra

The Jam'd 17th Feb 9pm £12 The Jam’d have gained a reputation for being the finest tribute to ‘The Jam’ giving an unforgettable, authentic performance with all the energy, passion and style of Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler. Come and relive the music of one of the most influential bands of the British music scene.

Bon Jovi UK 24th Feb 9pm £12 Europe’s number 1 Bon Jovi tribute band have it all, the look, the sound, the hits, the energy, the party atmosphere but most importantly, the warmth with the audiences. This band keeps it's set tight and only performs the major hits. Their Jon is the voice of ‘Jon Bon Jovi’ worldwide on many recordings including Sony’s ‘Buzz’.

The Horn, Victoria Street, St Albans AL1 3TE www.thehorn.co.uk

Fifth Symphonies 4th Feb 3pm The concert opens with Beethoven’s Fifth, followed by Anton Bruckner’s Fifth Symphony, finished 90 years later and a ‘work in progress’ for 20 years between the beginning of its composition and the actual orchestral premiere. £20, concs £15 / £8 / £6 Weston Auditorium, de Havilland Campus, University of Herts AL10 9EU www.herts.ac.uk

St Albans Choral Society Hymns and Anthems 4th Feb 4.30pm Concert of well-known choral music by Parry, Byrd, Tallis, Ireland and Stanford, in aid of the Hospice of St Francis, Berkhamsted Adult £13, child £1 Marlborough Road Methodist Church, St Albans AL1 3XG 8 www.ticketsource.co.uk

True Light 10th Feb 7.30pm Mass for double Choir - Frank Martin Rejoice in the Lamb - Benjamin Britten Holy is the true Light - William H Harris A Hymn for St Cecilia - Herbert Howells Conducted by Richard Brain with Colin Spinks - organ £15, concs £13, child £5 St Peters Church, St Albans AL1 3HG 01582 763774

Jam Jar 14th Feb & 14th March 8.30pm Monthly live music event featuring new music talent from both the University and across the county. Discover new music, whatever your tastes. 18+ Attic Bar, University of Herts, Hatfield AL10 9AB www.herts.ac.uk

The Horn

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NOW for a Good Read We usually focus on new releases for our book reviews, but this time we’ve looked through the back catalogues for a few gems you might have missed.

Station Eleven

by Emily St John Mandel From Kirsten – child actor turned travelling thespian – to aspiring doctor Jeevan, the novel tells the individual stories of several people before, during and after a pandemic that wipes out most of the population.

Gripping, beautiful and all too plausible, Station Eleven is a must for fans of Margaret Atwood, Erin Morgenstern and Suzanne Collins.

Harry Potter series

by JK Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay There can’t be many people who haven’t heard of the boy wizard by now. If you’re a fan, you might want to consider upgrading your paperbacks for the hardbacks illustrated by Jim Kay. One has been released each year, starting with The Philosopher’s Stone in 2015, so the first three are currently available to buy. Kay’s illustrations are superb and incredibly detailed. Prefer ereaders? Check out the Kindle in Motion editions, which animate parts of the illustrations, so you can watch Harry fly through the air in hot pursuit of the golden snitch while you’re reading.

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The Mysterious Affair at Cuckoo Song

by Frances Hardinge Cuckoo Song was first published in 2014, the year before Frances Hardinge’s Costa Award-winning novel The Lie Tree. Eleven year old Triss wakes up from an accident to find things aren’t as they were.

She can’t satisfy her immense hunger for a start; her sister is terrified of her; and even her dolls have turned against her. Is she going mad, or is the truth even more terrifying? A thoroughly enjoyable, fantastical read, Cuckoo Song is sure to prove a hit with fans of Neil Gaiman and Angela Carter.

The Crow Road

by Iain Banks The Crow Road covers some pretty big themes – love, death, religion, drugs and fractured families being just a few of them. Prentice McHoan returns home for his grandmother’s funeral and soon gets drawn into trying to solve the mystery of his Uncle Rory’s disappearance. It’s a dark, intense novel and far from an easy read, but the wit and sheer beauty of the writing could well make it one of your all-time favourites.

Why Mummy Drinks

by Gill Sims Gill Sims is the author of a hugely successful Facebook blog – Peter and Jane’s Mummy. Why Mummy Drinks was released last autumn and quickly became a bestseller.

Written in diary format, it tells the story of Ellen, a 39 year old mum of two, who’s trying to balance work and children, while navigating playground politics, irritating in-laws and an ex-boyfriend. The ensuing drama is extremely funny and very relatable if you’re a parent who isn’t quite ready to hang up her dancing shoes.

The Mysterious Affair at Styles

by Agatha Christie If last year’s hit film Murder on the Orient Express has tempted you to dip into the works of Agatha Christie, why not start with her very first novel?

Published in 1920 and set during World War I, it introduces readers to the brilliant mind of Belgian refugee Hercule Poirot.

The murder of a woman has everyone pointing the finger at one man. It’s down to Poirot to find out the real culprit before it’s too late. While The Mysterious Affair at Styles is not considered Christie’s finest work, there are still plenty of twists and turns to keep you hooked.

Email: concordeaerials2@gmail.com

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Your Neighbour May Need your Help The St Albans Good Neighbour Scheme (SAGNS) has been solving this problem for over 35 years. Many of our neighbours live on their own and have nobody to call upon if they need extra help. SAGNS provide a phone line they can ring and they can then link those who need help with those who are happy to give it.

Volunteers are needed for: Duty Officers to answer the SAGNS phone from their own homes Practical People who can do little tasks such as fix curtain rails or shopping Drivers who can take people to hospital appointments Befrienders who can visit somebody on a regular basis It’s flexible, some volunteers help out a few times a year and others a few times a week.

It’s very enjoyable. Expenses are reimbursed.

If you would like to get involved please call 01727 830713 or visit www.sagns.org

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Shuttleworth Collection Chinese New Year Trail 10th - 18th Feb Collect an activity sheet from the Visitor Centre and make your way around the trail in the Swiss Garden, finding clues to complete the challenge.

Normal garden entry rates apply.

Pancake Planes and Krazy Kites 14th - 16th Feb 10am, 11am, 1pm & 2pm Make and decorate Pancake Planes (rubber band powered paper plate planes) and Krazy Kites (straw and tissue paper box kites) Child £1, ages 5 - 12, please book, adults pay usual Collection entry £15, concs £12 Awesome Aviation Trail 10th - 18th Feb Collect an activity sheet from the Visitor Centre Claydon House and make your way around The Collection finding Behind the Scenes Tours clues to complete the challenge.

3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th, 17th & 18th Feb Normal collection entry rates apply.

11am, 12.30pm & 2pm £2.50 Valentine’s Afternoon Tea Join a member of the Conservation Team to find 11th Feb 1pm & 2.30pm £31.95 out what goes on behind the scenes in winter.

A romantic afternoon tea in the grand setting of Claydon House, Bucks MK18 2EY Shuttleworth House which will also be open for 01296 730 349 viewing with stewards to tell you about the history www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claydon of the Shuttleworth family and Old Warden Park.

Includes a glass of Champagne, please book Waddesdon Manor Chinese New Year Kids Craft Activities Superhero Week 12th & 13th Feb 10am, 11am, 1pm & 2pm 10th - 18th Feb 11am - 3pm child £3 Release your inner ninja and join in the fun! What Make Chinese Lanterns and Paper Dragons.

Child £1, adults pay usual garden entry £8, is your 'ikigai'? This is a Japanese concept meaning your 'reason for being' go along and find concs £7 out what your mission is! Have a go at the The Shuttleworth Collection Old Warden superhero trail, solving the clues and riddles to Aerodrome Beds SG18 9EP www.shuttleworth.org claim your reward.

Family Cookery School Wrest Park 12th - 16th Feb 11.30am - 3.30pm Butler School £25 child/adult 12th - 16th Feb 11am - 3pm A fun-filled day, guaranteed to leave children Being the butler of a country house is no easy inspired (and exhausted!) Make a delicious job. Do you think you've got what it takes? Make calzone for lunch, plus a selection of sweet and sure your shoes are savoury treats to take home. Run by the chefs in polished, your clothes the Manor Restaurant this is designed to be fun are immaculate and and informal, includes lunch, ingredients and a you're standing up goody box. Ages 7-11, children must be straight. Learn about the accompanied by an adult. etiquette of a country Comic Book Workshop house, from dressing a 14th Feb 10.30am & 1.30pm table to folding a napkin.

Join Jamie from the Crazy Comic Club to design But make sure you pay your own comic strip with storyline, heroes and attention, as the master villains created by you, as well as making a pair of the house won't keep of X-ray vision glasses. sloppy butlers around for Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury HP18 0JH long! Suitable for 01296 820414 families. Usual entry charges apply www.waddesdon.org.uk Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HR www.english-heritage.org.uk

Out of Town

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Call for a free quotation or to discuss your requirements sue.m.smyth@gmail.com 01727 842394

20 Bewdley Close Harpenden

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M&M Decorators Fully qualified City and Guilds Over 20 years experience All interior and exterior work undertaken Specialist in all types of wallpaper All work finished to a high professional standard Free quotations at competitive prices Matthew Hayden 01582 270715 01727 867660 07970 720911 mandmdecs@gmail.com

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Thinking Lunches 12.30pm - 1.30pm A half hour talk followed by discussion, held on the first Thursday of each month.

Drinks provided, but please bring lunch.

Free, but any donations given will cover expenses with any profits given to the speaker for a charity of their choice.

1st Feb Saving Israel What next for the Palestinians?

Tim and Mayonne Coldicott of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions 1st March A Christian Response to Terrorism The Reverend Paul Hackwood (Paul initiated the St Albans Sleep Out for the homeless) Marlborough Road Methodist Church, St Albans AL1 3XQ www.mrmc.org.uk

St Albans Pancake Race 13th Feb 12 noon Market Place, outside the Town Hall, St Albans Local Children’s Charity Home-Start Hertfordshire have teamed up with events’ company and business publication Hertfordshire Business Independent to take on organising the annual Pancake Race. This will now be an annual community fundraising event, helping Home-Start to raise vital funds to meet the increasing needs of local families struggling to cope with day to day life.

Teams from local businesses, charities and community groups can take part; so why not grab your friends or colleagues and sign up online for what will be an afternoon of flipping fun! www.pancake.events

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Spiced Bean & Carrot Patties You don’t have to be vegetarian to enjoy a meat free dinner. Harissa paste is a fiery hot blend of spices from North Africa. Alternatively, replace with 2 tsp curry paste or sun-dried tomato puree.

1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, peeled and chopped 2 carrots, peeled and grated 1 tsp harissa paste 400g can cannellini beans, drained 400g can red kidney beans, drained 3 tbsp freshly chopped mint 100g fresh wholemeal breadcrumbs Vegetable oil Heat the olive oil in a frying pan, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes until softened.

Cool for 5 minutes then place in a food processor with the carrots, harissa paste, beans, mint and breadcrumbs.

Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and blend for about 30 seconds. Shape the mixture into 15 small round patties. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.

Shallow fry the patties in hot vegetable oil for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper then serve with dark green salad leaves such as baby spinach and watercress with chunks of cooked beetroot.

For a quick herb dressing, stir lemon juice and freshly chopped mint into natural yogurt and season to taste.

Heartwood Tearooms ...welcome walkers, dog owners, cyclists and villagers for breakfast, light lunches, afternoon tea and cakes.

Open Mon - Sun 9am -5pm High Street, Sandridge AL4 9DD www.heartwoodtearooms.co.uk

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Harry Potter Book Night

Feb Fest Full House Theatre Company present an arts festival for children and young people packed with stuff to do this half term.

Tom Thumb 12th Feb 2.30pm - 3.15pm £7 age 3+ Luton Library Theatre LU1 2NG Performed on and under a kitchen table this wonder of a show is full of feathery spinning birds, a flying house and a portable forest. Cbeebies Patrick Lynch brings this classic story to life.

A Square World 14th Feb 11.30am - 12.30pm & 2.30pm - 3.30pm £5 age 3+ The Hat Factory LU1 2EY This funny performance looks at the unfairness of being left out in a world designed for everyone else but you. It’s a touching and quirky story of three friends and what happens when an unexpected change leaves one of them out in the cold. This non-verbal story uses simple design and object manipulation to create an imaginative world where anything can happen.

Treasure Chest Tales Told by pirate Captain Andromedus Silverbeard, from tales collected on his piratical journeys The King with Dirty Feet 15th Feb 11.30am - 12.15pm & 2.30pm - 3.15pm age 5+ Luton Central Library LU1 2NG King Barabadabada is a bit grumpy and hates taking a bath. When he discovers the joys of washing in the river everyone is relieved - until the King finds it impossible to leave the water without getting his feet covered in dirt.

Granny Dumpling 16th Feb 11.30am - 12.15pm, £4 age 5+ Stockwood Discovery Centre LU1 4LX Granny Dumpling makes the best dumplings in Japan. She is also fearless, and when a batch of dumplings roll away from her house she must follow - even if this means following a hairy little goblin into his underground lair!

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www.lutonculture.com

1st February will see the fourth annual Harry Potter Book Night celebrated throughout the world and at Harpenden Library they’re getting ready to host an unforgettable night themed around Fantastic Beasts.

The fun kicks off at 4.30pm finishing at 6pm.

Tickets are available in advance from the main desk. Places are limited and booking is essential. The event is aimed at Library members aged 8-10 who must have read the books. Free but donations are welcome.

Harpenden Library, High Street AL5 2RU www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries

Harpenden Children’s Author Camilla Chester writes for 8 12s, and you may have seen her at your local school, cub or brownie pack. Camilla always wanted to write for children as a profession and after moving to Harpenden, she enrolled on a OU Creative Writing Course, joined several writing groups and then discovered the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

Camilla’s debut novel, Jarred Dreams was shortlisted in the 2015 New Author Prize with the National Literacy Trust and her second book EATS was shortlisted in the Winchester Festival Children’s Funny Fiction Award 2018.

“Children want to know all kinds of things when they meet me but I usually get asked where my ideas come from and whether I know David Walliams and/or JK Rowling!”

“My new book, Thirteenth Wish, is due out at the end of April. If you would like to win tickets for the book launch please visit my website. The book is a crazy story with dragons and lakes of milk. Here are the opening lines: One book was sticking out at an odd angle on the shelves and it caught his eye. It looked awkward jutting out like that, different to the others. It looked how Jayden felt.”

Camilla’s books are available at Harpenden Books, Serena Hart, Harpendnen, Amazon or personalised via her website www.camillachester.com

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The Play That Goes Wrong 5th - 10th Feb The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong…does! The accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences!

Given 5 stars from The Daily Mail, called a ‘Gut-busting hit’ by the New York Times and with celebrity endorsements from the likes of Ant and Dec ‘funniest show we’ve seen! This show is guaranteed to leave you aching with laughter, age 8+ Aylesbury Waterside Theatre HP20 1UG www.ents24.com

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February Fun Winnie the Witch Saturday Stories Verulamium Museum 12th Feb all day Crack the Code Trail Explore the museum for clues to Roman words and phrases hidden around the galleries. Free 13th & 14th Feb 2pm - 4pm Crafts in the Colonnade Crafts inspired by the museum’s collections. £1.50* 15th Feb all day Museum Explorers Borrow items from the museums explorer kit and see what you’ll discover in the museum.

Free 15th Feb 2pm - 4 pm Meet the Conservator Chat to the Conservator who will be in the galleries, cleaning and caring for the museum’s collections. Free 16th Feb 11am - 1pm Family Fridays - Time for Tea Drop-in craft and learning session. Handle artefacts and make a souvenir to take home. £2.50* 17th Feb 2.30pm & 3.30pm Meet a Roman Soldier In 61AD, Boudicca led an uprising against the Romans in Colchester, London and Verulamium. Discover what life was like as a Roman Soldier at Verulamium during the Boudican revolt. Free *children must be accompanied by an adult Verulamium Museum, St Albans AL3 4SW www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

10th Feb 11am -12 noon Stories about Winnie the Witch and other witchy tales for children aged 610 years. Free, suggested donation of £1. Booking not required, but spaces are limited.

Harpenden Library High Street AL5 2RU www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries

Planetarium 12th - 14th Feb 9.30am - 3pm Take an adventure across the night sky with Dark Sky Wales and their incredible indoor planetarium.

Explore the universe, enjoy a guided tour of the skies and find out about the mythology behind the stars. £4 please book, ages 4+ Chilterns Gateway Centre Dunstable Downs, LU6 2GY www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Monsters!

10am, 11.15am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm 13th Feb Make a scary mask of your favourite monster.

14th Feb Make a monster collage and design your very own monster.

15th Feb Make your favourite monster in clay No booking required, age 4+, children must be accompanied by an adult, £3.50 per session Mill Green Museum, Hatfield AL9 5PD www.welhat.gov.uk

Half-Term Activities Den Building 10th - 18th Feb 9am - 5pm Build an amazing den with your friends and family. This self-led activity requires adult supervision (grown ups can join in and have fun too). Take part in the interactive nature trail around the reserve, and then enjoy a cuppa and a cookie to warm up! £2 RSPB Rye Meads, Stansted Abbotts SG12 8JS www.rspb.org.uk

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12th -16th Feb 11am - 4.30pm There’s a host of special attractions, demonstrations, displays and lots of fun things to do. With extraordinary science experiments, children's crafts and other hands-on favourites including playing music the way the Victorians did, attending classes in the Victorian schoolroom, making hot buttered toast over the range, brass-rubbing, and sitting in the stocks, sending Morse code and much more.

Milton Keynes Museum, Wolverton MK12 5EL www.miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

The Magic Cutlass 16th & 17th Feb 16th: 2pm; 17th: 11am & 2pm Flinn is back! Les Petits Theatre Company return to the high seas after their award winning shows David Walliams' The First Hippo on the Moon and Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs. When Flinn is in the middle of his school play, his old nemesis, Mr T the T-Rex appears and kidnaps his friends forcing them to hunt for the Magic Cutlass; a sword that grants any wish. Children are whisked away for another fantastic adventure to a world of devious dinosaurs, deep sea dangers and smelly sausages! Ages 3+ Watford Palace Theatre WD17 1JZ www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

February Frolics 10th - 18th Feb Live lambing and activities for the whole family.

Watch as the smallest members of the flock arrive supervised by Tuck the Shepherd, who will also be carrying out daily bottle feeding demonstrations. Children can make 'ewe-nique' arts and crafts, visit Cotton-Tail Village or Woolly Jumpers Play Barn for some imaginative, indoor play, or meet animal friends including goats, guinea pigs and rabbits. Daily live performances take place in the Peter Rabbit Theatre while Squirrel Nutkin, Lily Bobtail, Benjamin Bunny, Cotton-Tail, and of course Peter Rabbit himself will be ready to meet and greet their fans. Why not go along and have an amazing fun filled day.

Willows Activity Farm, St Albans AL4 0PF www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Make and Take Peppa Pig's Adventure 24th & 25th Feb 24th: 1pm & 4pm 25th: 10am & 1pm Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on a camping trip with her friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe.

With Daddy Pig driving the bus, they are excited about their adventure, full of games, laughter and live music. They soon settle down to sleep and listen to the gentle pitter patter of the rain. Safe and warm inside their tents the excited group look forward to morning, when there will be lots of muddy puddles to play in!

Watford Colosseum, WD17 3JN www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

12th - 16th Feb 11am - 3pm ÂŁ3 Ages 8+ Make and paint the Airfix aircraft you want to build; a Sopwith Pup, Albatross or Mitsubishi Zero, all materials provided.

Ages 5-8 Make and decorate a wooden bi-plane.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

RAF Museum London, NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk

Think, Make, Do...

Cyber Workshops 13th - 15th Feb 11am - 3.30pm Explore relevant modern day issues of online safety and how these relate to the Bletchley Park Codebreakers. How secure is your password?

Can you spot the signs of a phish? How did the codebreakers use 'hacking' techniques to break into Enigma? Have fun delving into these activities and many more. Drop in activities are included with admission. Suitable for families with children aged 5-14 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Bletchley Park, Bletchley MK3 6EB www.bletchleypark.org.uk

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Do Something for Charity Pat & the Butchers 9th Feb 8pm Join this four-piece covers band from St Albans who play the best in upbeat party music from all decades and genres for all audiences, especially those who want to dance! All money raised will go to Rennie Grove Hospice Care's Children Services.

Entry is free but donations are welcome.

Speckled Hen, Hatfield Road St Albans AL4 0XG

Keech Hospice Care Legowalk 11th Feb 3pm - 4pm Challenge your family and friends to take on the Legowalk and raise money for Keech Hospice Care. Entry £5, minimum sponsorship £40. age 6+ children must be accompanied by an adult Firewalk 11th Feb 3pm - 6.30pm Test your mind and body by walking barefoot across 20 feet of hot coals, nearing 1,200°F It might sound unbelievable, but this event will show you that you can achieve more than you ever thought possible.

Entry £25, minimum sponsorship £110, age 18+ Keech Hospice Care, Luton LU3 3NT www.keech.org.uk

Quiz Night 24th Feb 1st St Albans Scout Group, Wadley Hut, Watford Road, St Albans AL1 2AF Test your knowledge in aid of Rennie Grove Hospice Care. Teams of up to 8, costing £8 per person, bring your own nibbles and drink.

Call 01727 731028 to enter your team today. www.renniegrove.org

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UK registered charity no 297489

Trek to the Sahara Why not step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself for charity. The Hospice of St Francis are looking for intrepid adventurers to join their fundraising trek to the Sahara from 10th 17th November.

The trek led by experienced guides, will involve two full days and two half days trekking 30km across ancient dried up river beds, sand dunes and vast sun-baked plains before setting up camp for the night and sleeping under a blanket of stars.

It will end with a two-day community project in Marrakech helping to improve conditions at a local centre for street children, a medical day clinic or a home for the elderly. www.stfrancis.org.uk/treksahara

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NOW for Some Nature Family Conservation Day 12th Feb 10am -1pm Spend the morning working outside as a family, carrying out a range of practical conservation tasks to help with habitat management on Harpenden Common.

Hot drinks and biscuits provided, suitable for all ages, booking essential, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Harpenden Town Council is working in partnership with Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust to help residents explore, experience and learn more about the town’s green spaces.

Harpenden Common AL5 1DT www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk Show the Love for Climate Coalition 14th Feb 11am - 2pm drop in, free The Climate Coalition is the UK's largest group of people dedicated to action against climate change. Join Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust this Valentine's Day to show the Love for Climate Change, and find out how you can help reduce the effects of climate change. There are signs all around us, from our lawns needing a trim at Christmas to birds migrating at the wrong time.

Take a moment to look for these early signs of spring in your neighbourhood.

Green hearts will be popping up across the country on Valentine's Day, make your own special heart and join in the fun! Make your pledge, show the love and display your green heart on the wildlife garden fence to spread the word. For kids there will be spotter sheets to take around the park and if you’re lucky you might even meet Bertie the Badger!

Grebe House, Verulamium Park, St Albans AL3 4SN www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

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National Nest Box Week 14th - 21st Feb NNBW takes place each year and aims to encourage everyone to put up nest boxes in their local area to promote and enhance biodiversity and conservation of breeding birds and wildlife.

Natural nest sites for birds such as holes in trees or old buildings are disappearing fast as gardens are ‘tidied’ and old houses are repaired.

Taking part in NNBW gives you the chance to contribute to bird conservation while observing any breeding birds that you attract to your nest box. Visit the website for more information and your free information pack. Then just monitor your nest box and tell the British Trust for Ornithology what you see during NNBW! www.bto.org Wild Families Brilliant Birds and Birdbox Building 15th Feb 1pm - 3pm Family fun outdoors by celebrating National Nest Box Week with a trip to the woods. As well as looking for birds you can make bird feeders, nesting material balls and a bird box too. Weather permitting, there will be a campfire and tasty snacks. Ages 4-11, children must be accompanied by an adult. £7 includes bird box 16th Feb 10am - 3pm Wild Kids Adventure Day - Firelighting and Ouitdoor Cooking Discover the best materials to light a fire, learn how to stay safe and have a go at lighting a fire without a match. There will be games, crafts, free play-time in the woods and weather permitting, a campfire. For ages 8-13 (ages 6-7 welcome but must be accompanied by an adult). Children aged 8-13 must be dropped off and collected by a named adult, but adults are welcome to stay and play if they wish! Run and supervised by trained Forest School leaders who are also trained in first aid and DBS checked. £15 Panshanger Park, Hertford SG14 2NA www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

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Snowdrops Galore

Claydon House 3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th, 17th & 18th Feb 11am - 3pm £6 Stroll through the woodland and see the sensational snowdrops as you explore this winter wonderland.

Claydon House, Bucks MK18 2EY www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claydon

Benington Lordship 7th Feb - 4th March 12 noon - 4pm adult £5, child £2, under 12’s free Enjoy the spectacular display of naturalised snowdrops around the remains of the Norman keep and surrounding moat. Hellebores, aconites and winter shrubs will also be in flower, as well as the coloured stems of acers, cornus and willow around the ponds. Two main species of snowdrop can be seen: the single common snowdrop Galanthus nivalis and the double Galanthus nivalis ‘flore pleno’. Over the years, a collection of rare and unusual snowdrops has developed, and many can be found growing in the borders. A collection of 200 named varieties is kept in and around the kitchen garden.

Guided Walks on Mondays and Wednesdays 2pm, £1 Plant Sales of Hellebores, single and double snowdrops and a limited number of named varieties will be on sale Snowdrop Concerts at St Peter’s Church Sundays in February 2.30pm - 3.15pm, free Benington Lordship, Stevenage SG2 7BS www.beningtonlordship.co.uk

Walkern Hall Snowdrop Festival 10th & 11th Feb 12 - 4pm £5, child free A winter woodland garden set in eight acres, with a carpet of snowdrops and aconites. This

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medieval hunting park is also well known for its established trees such as the tulip trees and a magnificent London plane tree which dominates the garden. Following on in March and April there will be stunning display of daffodils and other spring bulbs.

Walkern Hall, Stevenage, Herts SG2 7JA www.ngs.org.uk

NGS Open Day 18th Feb 9.30am - 5pm Enjoy the snowdrops, hellebores and a range of wonderfully scented shrubs including the lovely Winter Honeysuckle and Christmas Box. Views across the garden are opened up due to the lighter tree canopy in Winter, and the first daffodils will be coming out.

Share your images using #NGSopenday www.ngs.org.uk The Shuttleworth Collection Old Warden Aerodrome Beds SG18 9EP www.shuttleworth.org

Waterend House 24th Feb 12 - 4pm £5, child free A hidden garden of four acres sets off this elegant Jacobean Manor House with a stunning display of spring bulbs and an orchard carpeted in snowdrops. With steep grass slopes, fine views of glorious countryside plus a flint-walled garden and informal gardens leading into woodland. Mature specimen trees, newly created vegetable garden, bantams and Indian runner ducks. Home-made teas, soup and bread available.

Waterend House, Waterend Lane, Wheathampstead AL4 8EP

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Spotlight on History Talks Live Cinema WGC The Royal Opera House Live: Tosca 7th Feb 7.15pm Tosca is one of the great evenings of opera, conjuring up a world of political instability and menace in turbulent of Rome in 1800. The Chief of Police, Scarpia, one of the most malevolent villains in opera, his dark, demonic music contrasts with the expansive melodies of the idealistic lovers, Tosca and Cavaradossi, who express their passion in sublime arias, including ‘Vissi d’arte’ and ‘E lucevan le stelle’. It remains one of the most performed operas, with its gripping plot, it’s easy to see why.

Royal Shakespeare Company Live: Twelfth Night 14th Feb 7pm A tale of unrequited love, hilarious and heartbreaking. Twins are separated in a shipwreck, and forced to fend for themselves in a strange land. The first twin, Viola, falls in love with Orsino, who dotes on OIivia, who falls for Viola but is idolised by Malvolio. Enter Sebastian, who is the spitting image of his twin sister. Shakespeare’s greatest comedy, a brilliantly bittersweet account of "the whirligig of time".

National Theatre Live: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof 22nd Feb 7pm On a steamy night in Mississippi, a Southern family gather at their cotton plantation to celebrate Big Daddy’s birthday.

The Royal Opera House Live: The Winter's Tale 28th Feb 7.15pm Shakespeare's tale of love and loss becomes a compelling dance drama in Christopher Wheeldon's ballet adaptation.

Welwyn Garden City Cinema AL8 6BX www.tickets.cwentertainment.co.uk

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7th Feb Many a Fight over a Barrel of Horse Manure!

Take a journey through twentieth century St Albans, hear experiences of those who lived and worked here, including extracts from the museum’s oral history collection. Hear how money could be made by collecting horse manure on St Peters Street and how local boy Bernard was told to cover his bicycle light with mud for fear of a zeppelin spotting him.

14th Feb The Changing Use of St Albans Town Hall From its construction in 1831, The Town Hall was designed as a civic building for the benefit of the public. Within its walls, local magistrates presided over trials and the mayor and councillors governed the district, while dances and lectures took place in the Assembly Room upstairs. And a new museum will be the next stage of the building’s history. Find out more about this fascinating building.

21st Feb Mobilisation 1914 On the day war was declared in August 1914, the British arrested every German spy in Britain. This talk will explain how the British discovered the Kaiser’s spy ring, how the British Army and Royal Navy went to war and focus on the important role played by the police and the Post Office.

28th Feb The M1 - How Was it Built?

In the 1950s, a plan was developed to create the M1 motorway (see picture) linking London to Yorkshire.

Using wartime airfield construction techniques and battling extremely tough winter conditions, the southern stretch of the M1 near St Albans was built in 18 months, opening in 1959. To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Institute of Civil Engineers, find out more about this amazing civil engineering project so close to home.

Talks 7.30pm - 8.30pm £5 each / £15 for all four Verulamium Museum, St Albans AL3 4SW 01727 751810 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

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

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NOW at the Local Theatres The Radlett Centre Monstersaurus!

13th Feb 11.30pm & 2pm One day Monty found a book ‘Inventions Very Rare Create yourself a monster friend BUT ONLY IF YOU DARE!’ In this new show from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants, follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters. This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family.

The Wind in the Willows 24th Feb 11am From the peaceful pleasures of Ratty's beloved river bank to the fearful frights and wicked weasels of the Wild Wood, join Mole and Ratty on their marvellous adventures, along with gruff old Badger and magnificent Mr Toad.

The Radlett Centre WD7 8HL www.radlettcentre.co.uk

The Sandpit Theatre Little Red Riding Hood and Friends 16th Feb 2pm Little Red Riding Hood’s friend arrives to tell the story but there are no pages in the book!

With audience participation this show from the well-loved Booster Cushion Theatre company will have children captivated from start to finish.

Adult £6, concs £4 Film: Toy Story 17th Feb 10.30am adult £3, concs £2 Sidney’s Shed 18th Feb 11.30am & 2.30pm Rhubarb Theatre presents Sidney and the bravest little girl in Windy-on-the-Hill, as they time-travel to dig up the past and weed out the bullies! Bursting with historical hilarity, songs, music and prizewinning cabbages, suitable for all ages.

Adult £9, concs £7 The Sandpit Theatre, St Albans AL4 9NX www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

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Barn Theatre Brontë 16th - 24th Feb 8pm A glimpse into the real and imagined world of the Brontë sisters, exploring how three Victorian sisters, isolated on the Yorkshire moors, came to write some of the most powerful and passionate fiction of all time. We see the real and imagined worlds of the three sisters as the play moves seamlessly from the kitchen table to the wild moors. Time, reality and the imagination merge in an unconventional structure that encourages a brave, creative approach to production. £13 Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST www.barntheatre.co.uk

Abbey Theatre A Triptych of…Comic Operas 17th Feb 8pm A rare chance to see three comic gems. First, a tale of mixed fortunes in Offenbach’s Le 66, performed for the first time in the UK with an English libretto.

Next, Peter Reynolds’ Sands of Time, The Guinness Book of Records’ shortest opera at 3 minutes and 34 seconds. And finally, a new comic opera commission by John Whittaker, The Proposal, based on an early Chekhov satire. £16.50, £17.50 Frankenstein 23rd - 25th & 27th Feb - 3rd March Presented by the Company of Ten In this fabulously atmospheric Gothic horror, Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant young student, discovers the secret of creating life from the remains of the dead. But even Frankenstein is horrified when he sees his monstrous creation.

Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

Wheathampstead Dramatic Society My Old Lady 22nd - 24th Feb Mathias a penniless American inherits a French apartment, only to find he has also ‘inherited’ its sitting tenants: elderly Mathilde and her irritable daughter, Chloe. Family secrets and surprising revelations are exposed as Mathias tries to secure his inheritance. £10 Memorial Hall, Wheathampstead AL4 8AY www.wheathampsteaddramaticsociety.co.uk

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Out and About

Welly Walk 3rd, 17th, 24th Feb 11am - 12 noon Stories, activities and a chance to explore different parts of this fantastic site. Some of the time you’ll be outside so make sure you’re suitably dressed. Ages 3 - 7, child £3, adult free Stockwood Discovery Centre www.lutonculture.com

RSPB Walks & Talks Harpenden Lea Valley Walk 4th Feb 8am -10.15am * Guided walk identifying local birds. Meet on the bridge over the River Lea near the 'Marquis of Herts Year of Physical Activity Granby' pub at the junction of Crabtree Lane and 2018 has been designated the Hertfordshire Marquis Lane.

Year of Physical Activity, and each month there Please call to confirm attendance will be a different theme. February’s theme is 01582 715420 ‘Workforce Development and Volunteering’.

Talk: Saving the Albatross 8th Feb 8pm £3 Volunteering

By Cleo Small from the RSPB Why not get active while giving something back All Saints Church Hall, Station Road, Harpenden to your community, The Countryside Management Service has plenty of opportunities Day Visit to Tring Reservoirs across the county.

21st Feb 10.15am - 4pm * Practical Conservation Volunteers Birdwatching led by Nick Murray, call 07796 Weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 174771 to confirm attendance. Meet at the lay-by Rights of Way Surveyor between the Tring Reservoirs on Tringford Road, 10th Feb in Hitchin between the junctions with the B488 at Tring Hertfordshire Health Walk Leaders Wharf and the B489. They will move on to 21st Feb in Watford Wilstone Reservoir for lunch and more Hertfordshire Health Walk Ambassador birdwatching.

28th Feb in Welwyn Twilight Walk at Hixberry Lane, St Albans For more information call 01992 588433 26th Feb 3pm free northeast.cms@hertfordshire.gov.uk or Walk through mixed farmland and parkland to healthwalks.cms@hertfordshire.gov.uk see mixed finch and winter thrush flocks, and hopfully hear owls as the light fades. Wear good Workplace Development footwear and bring a torch. Meet outside the Sign up for the Workplace Challenge with your colleagues. Just 10 minutes of activity a day can Plough Inn, Tyttenhanger Green AL4 0RW Leader: Rob Blythe 07512 704744 make you feel better, improve sleep, mood and concentration.

Morning Walk in the Ver Valley It lasts for 8 weeks, and encourages staff to build from St Albans activity into their working days. This is for all 28th Feb 9.45am * abilities. To sign up visit Half day birdwatching walk led by Ann and Roger www.workplacechallenge.org.uk/signup Doubleday. Contact the leaders on 01582 Log your activities and gain points to win prizes 764226 for details. throughout the challenge. * Free and run by volunteers, donation of £1 to RSPB is appreciated Also Herts Sports Partnership will be running www.rspb.org their annual coach education week with everything from athletics to swimming Ashridge www.sportinherts.org.uk Half Term Trail and Craft Activity Follow Facebook and Twitter: #HertsYOPA18 12th - 16th Feb 10am - 3pm £3 Follow the ‘Day in the Life of a Ranger’ trail, then head back to make your own tractor craft.

Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berkhamsted HP4 1LP www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge

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determine the type. It’s important to get Secondary Raynaud’s Phenomenon correctly diagnosed, as in rare cases complications such as gangrene or ulcers arise.

Who gets Raynaud’s?

Raynaud’s: Not Just Cold Toes!

Raynaud’s Phenomenon (Raynaud’s Disease or often just ‘Raynaud’s’) affects around 20% of adults worldwide and that’s why February is Raynaud’s Awareness Month.

Secondary can occur in anyone, as it’s associated with other conditions and factors.

Primary is usually mild, can occur at any age and may be hereditary. It’s: More common in females Rare in young children Common in teenagers (although sometimes disappears in their twenties) More common in smokers (because smoking damages blood vessels and affects smooth muscle).

Treatment and Prevention

To prevent attacks: • Stay warm Outdoors: use scarves, gloves, hats, earmuffs, heated hand warmers and prewarmed clothes and shoes. Several thin layers What Is Raynaud’s Phenomenon? are warmer than one thick one. Wear thin socks It’s a condition in which blood supply to and gloves under thicker ones and use hand extremities is interrupted. Attacks are caused by driers to warm your hands. Indoors: try hot over-sensitivity of small blood vessels, and while water bottles, microwaveable heat packs, hot fingers and toes are most commonly affected, it baths before bed and an electric blanket. also affects the ears, nose, lips and nipples.

• Stop smoking – it affects your blood supply and can reduce your temperature.

Triggers and Causes • Eat for warmth – hot drinks and small regular Primary Raynaud’s meals, preferably hot, will keep you energetic The causes are unclear, although the NHS and warm. Use oven gloves to remove things estimates that 1 in 10 sufferers go on to develop a from the fridge. condition associated with Secondary Raynaud’s.

• Avoid heavy carrier bags – they restrict blood Attacks are usually triggered by cold flow to fingers. temperatures, but anxiety, stress, hormones or • Take regular exercise – providing it doesn’t smoking can also cause blood vessels to spasm make symptoms worse. and restrict blood flow to your extremities.

• Find ways to relax.

Secondary Raynaud’s Sometimes medication is required if you It’s often connected with autoimmune conditions experience ulcers, intense pain or impaired finger such as rheumatoid arthritis, but also results from function. In severe cases, sympathectomy other medical conditions (including Hepatitis), procedures using surgery, laser or injection to illegal drug use, some medicines (including the sever the nerves that cause the blood vessels to contraceptive pill and beta-blockers), an injury, or spasm may be used, but these vary in use of a vibrating tool (‘vibration white finger’). permanency and efficacy.

Symptoms

Symptoms can last a few minutes or a few hours, and may be regular or occasional. Sometimes the condition goes away by itself.

• Restriction of blood to extremities can cause them to turn white, then blue, and finally red as blood flow returns to them.

• Sometimes there may be pins and needles, numbness, swelling, pain or stiffness.

If have Raynaud’s symptoms, visit your doctor, who can diagnose it and request blood tests to

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Remember: Don’t ignore Raynaud’s symptoms. They could indicate an underlying condition that needs treatment.

Support and information: Scleroderma & Raynaud’s UK www.sruk.co.uk

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NOW for Some Art

Eccentrically Eclectic until 25th Feb free All new comic stuff, wheeled stuff, big and small stuff, plus new artist mash up, mostly original works all by local artist Stephen Hill.

New Maynard Gallery, WGC AL8 6BX www.newmaynardgallery.co.uk

The Sandpit Theatre Pottery Open Day 24th Feb 9.30am Lectures and practical demonstrations from renowned international potters. Run by the Dacorum and Chiltern Potters Guild. £30, full time students £15 Film: Cezanne: Portraits of a Life 25th Feb 3pm Exhibition on Screen presents one of the most talked about exhibitions of the year. Adult £5 The Sandpit Theatre, St Albans AL4 9NX 01727 799565 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

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Calling All Young Photographers Children and Young People in St Albans, Harpenden and the surrounding areas are invited to take part in “Living St Albans”, a photography competition showcasing sustainability throughout the district.

It’s open to anyone at Infant, Junior or Secondary School and prizes include £100 for the winner of each age category, plus prizes for the best combined entry (e.g. a photo montage) from a school, year, class, or youth group.

Participants are encouraged to use one of the 10 themes as a focus for their submission:  Health and Happiness  Equity and Local Economy  Culture and Community  Land and Nature  Sustainable Water  Local and Sustainable Food  Materials and Products  Travel and Transport  Zero Waste  Zero Carbon Closing Date: 29th March Entry forms can be downloaded from www.sustweek18photocomp.co.uk The top three photographs in each age category will be displayed at the Sustainable St Albans Week, ‘Know How Festival’ on 29th April. www.sustainablestalbans.org

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What’s on in February 42

1st Harry Potter Book Night see page 20 Suggs: What a King Cnut see page 4 3rd, 17th & 24th Welly Walk see page 36 3rd Feb - 4th March Snowdrops Galore see page 30 4th Fifth Symphonies see page 8 Hymns & Anthems see page 8 5th - 10th The Play That Goes Wrong see page 22 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th Talks: Spotlight on History see page 32 7th, 14th, 22nd & 28th Live Cinema see page 32 7th - 10th St Albans Gang Show see page 4 9th Gaz Brookfield & The Company of Thieves Bedford Esquires, Bedford MK40 2QG, 8pm, £10 10th True Light see page 8 10th - 18th Superhero Week see page 14 February Frolics see page 25 Den Building see page 24 11th Legowalk & Firewalk see page 26 Valentine’s Afternoon Tea see page 14 12th Crack the Code Museum Trail see page 24 12th - 14th Planetarium see page 24 12th - 16th St Albans City Youth FC Football Camp see page 21 Butler School see page 14 Feb Fest see page 20 Half Term Trail & Crafts see page 36 13th St Albans Pancake Race see page 18 Jason Donovan Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767524, £25, 7.30pm Menopause the Musical see page 4 13th - 15th Think, Make, Do...Cyber Workshops see page 25 14th Show the Love for Climate Coalition see page 28

Paint Your Own Bird Feeder see page 3 Comic Book Workshop see page 14 St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society Meeting: Displays beginning with K & L St Mary's Church, Childwickbury AL3 6JJ, all welcome, 8pm www.stalbharpstampclub.org.uk 14th - 16th Pancake Planes & Krazy Kites see page 14 15th An Audience with Frank Bruno see page 4 15th & 16th Wild Families / Wild Kids Events see page 28 16th Little Red Riding Hood & Friends see page 34 16th & 17th The Magic Cutlass see page 25 16th - 24th Bronte see page 34 17th Film: Toy Story see page 34 A Triptych of Comic Operas see page 34 Showaddywaddy Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767524, £20, 8pm Hertfordshire Chorus see page 6 The Close-up Show Hertford Theatre SG14 1PS 8pm www.hertfordtheatre.com The Jam’d see page 8 18th Grimethorpe Colliery Band Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767524, 3pm Sidney’s Shed see page 34 18th & 25th Luxury Wedding Shows see back cover 22nd Richard Herring: oh Frig, I’m 50! see page 4 22nd - 24th My Old Lady see page 34 23rd - 25th & 27th Feb - 3rd March Frankenstein see page 34 24th Quiz Night see page 26 St Michael’s School Jumble Sale see page 6 Classical Guitar Recital see page 6 Bon Jovi UK see page 8 Pottery Open Day see page 40 25th Film: Cezanne: Portraits of a Life see page 40 An Evening With Ant Middleton see page 4 28th Paul Young see page 4

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What’s on in March 44

1st Understanding & Managing Anger in Children Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans AL1 3HL 7.30pm www.keystoneworkshops.co.uk 2nd The Daria Kulesh Quartet, Ben Moss & Bow

by Bow Maltings Arts Theatre, folk music, 8pm £12/£11/£7.50 www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk 3rd Odyssey & Heatwave The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, £25, 8pm Friends for All The Hat Factory, Luton LU1 2EY 11am & 2pm www.lutonculture.com First Aid Course for Teenagers St Albans Fire Station, London Road AL1 1TQ 9am - 1pm www.vistastalbans.org.uk 3rd March - Feb ‘19 Exhibition Opening: Voices Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berkhamsted HP4 1LP, celebrating the centenary of women’s suffrage in 1918, 11am www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge 4th Nuffield Triathlon Nuffield Health, Hemel Hempstead HP2 4NW, indoor triathlon 10 mins on a static bike, rowing machine & treadmill, £20, registation 9am, event 9.30am 6th - 10th Cats The Radlett Centre, feline fun for all ages, 7.30pm & Sat 2.30pm www.radlettcentre.co.uk 7th Richard Herring: Oh Frig, I’m 50 Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 8pm, £17.50 8th - 10th & 15th - 17th The Deep Blue Sea Maltings Arts Theatre, 8pm, £12/£11/£7.50 www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk 9th Eddie & The Hot Rods Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, loud & fast Rock n Roll, 8pm, £18 10th Absolute Bowie Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 8pm, £19.50 11th Elkie Brooks The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, £25, 7.30pm www.alban-arena.co.uk The Pied Piper Hertford Theatre, SG14 1PS 11am & 2pm www.hertfordtheatre.com 13th Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, £25, 8pm www.alban-arena.co.uk 14th HIP Art & Design Gallery, College Lane, Hatfield, 1pm & 7.30pm 16th Noasis Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, definitive Oasis tribute band, 8pm, £18

17th JS Bach: St John Passion (sung in German) St Albans Cathedral, St Albans Bach Choir, 7.30pm Stabat Mater by Haydn Hardynge Choir, Harpenden High Street Methodist Church, 7.30pm £14, concs £7, child free www.hardyngechoir.org 21st St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society Meeting: Displays by Pinner Philatelic Society St Mary's Church, Childwickbury AL3 6JJ, all welcome, 8pm www.stalbharpstampclub.org.uk 21st & 24th FoodSmiles Open Days Hammonds End Farm, Harpenden AL5 2AY a free tour, 1.30pm - 4 pm 22nd - 24th Gangsta Granny Hertford Theatre, SG14 1PS Thu & Fri: 7pm Sat: 11am & 3pm www.hertfordtheatre.com 23rd The Sensational 60s Experience The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, £28.50, 7.30pm 24th Dr John Cooper Clarke The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, £27.50, £22.50, £15, 8pm The Close-up Show Hertford Theatre SG14 1PS 8pm www.hertfordtheatre.com Soroptimist Women's Group Quiz Homewood Road Church Hall, St Albans AL1 4BH, 07884 185925, fish & chip supper, bar, £12.50, child £10, in aid of local women's refuges, 7.15pm 25th Fantastic Pictures - James Mayhew Weston Auditorium, de Havilland Campus, Hatfield, a symphony explored through visual art, designed for an older audience, 7.30pm, £20, concs £6-£15 29th The Rocket Man: A Tribute to Elton John Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 7.30pm, £20 30th & 31st Peppa Pig’s Adventure The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, £17, concs £15, 8pm 30th March - 2nd April Eggciting Easter Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB 10am - 5pm www.coam.org.uk Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Claydon House, MK18 2EY, 01296 730349, 11am - 4pm, £2.50 31st From the Jam Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, with Bruce Foxton & Russell Hastings 8pm, £22.50 The Amazing Bubble Man Hertford Theatre, SG14 1PS 11.30am & 2pm www.hertfordtheatre.com

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Index of Businesses Dance & Drama Aerial Installations & Repairs Concorde Aerials 11 Penny Waterman School of Dance 23 Art Classes Stagecoach 22 GDS Art School 40 Dog Boarding Beauty Wagging Tails 2 The Cove Spa 37 Domestic Appliance Repairs Bicycle Repairs Leigh Hibon 35 Cycletech Herts 45 Education Bicycle Shop Kumon 22 CTH Cycles 45 Electrician Building Services Alban Electrical Services 11 Brockhall Building Services 19 Open Plan Solutions 19 Fencing Verulam Fencing 29 Carpentry / Joinery Chris Smyth 9 Football Camps St Albans City Youth FC 21 Charity The Salvation Army 27 Garden Centre 3 Traid 26 Burston Garden Centre

Cleaning Daily Poppins Domestique Merrivac

Gardening / 23 Landscaping Garden Life Landscapes Justin Leon 41 41 Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice 33 33 Life Coaching 33 Storm McQueen Coaching

College Oaklands College

Locksmith 43 Lock Around the Clock

Children’s Early Learning Gymboree Chiropodist Julia Reading Kathy Witchard

29 31

39 37 5

Loft Ladders Conservatory Roof Solutions Nu-Look 7 Home Counties Loft Ladders 17 Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorators

Pilates Classes St Albans PT Pilates

41

Plasterers A Merson Plastering

5

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

5 & 47

Pressure Washing Verulam Pressure Washing

35

Removals Stephens Removals

16

Roofing GJ Smith Roofing K & D Flat Roofing Shutters Just Shutters The Harpenden Shutter Company

5&9 9 15 15

Soft Furnishings Sue Smyth

15

Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd

31

TV Repairs JB TV Services

11

Wedding Show Luxury Wedding Show Back Cover Will Planning Westminster Wills Ltd

47

Windows & Doors Cloudy2Clear Kings Windows

13 12

16 16

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