st albans NOW July 16

st albans

NOW

July 2016

WIN tickets for

The Undertones and Harpenden Blues, Rhythm & Rock Music Festival

St Albans Literary Festival NOW for some Art Do Something for Charity Harpenden Highland Gathering

Classics Galore Jolly July Events What’s on and lots more

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St Albans Lets Walk

Welcome to July By the time you read this most of the school exams will be over for the summer, meaning lots of our teenagers will be out in the sunshine.

This month there's lots for everyone to enjoy from The Undertones, the Harpenden Blues, Rhythm & Rock Music Festival, the M Festival and Festival on the Field to Classic Car Events, Open Air Cinema and Theatre and the Big Sleepout or maybe you fancy a challenge and want to try one of the sporty charity events.

Don't forget, if you need something doing choose local first, and as always we’d love to hear from you with news of events and what's happening locally.

Enjoy the read Jane & Wendy www.theNOWmagazines.com jane@theNOWmagazines.com 07983 588291

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July

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walking through history

tickets for

The Undertones and Harpenden Blues, Rhythm & Rock Music Festival

WIN Tickets

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Blues, Rhythm & Rock Music Festival & The Undertones

St Albans Literary Festival

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authors, books & more

NOW for the Kids

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fun, fun. fun

Do Something For Charity 22 why not get involved

Jolly July

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summer fun for all

NOW for some Art

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lots of local art

Harpenden Highland Gathering

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bagpipes, dancers & cabers

NOW at the Local Theatres

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drama, opera & music

Classics Galore

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cars, cycles & scooters

NOW at The Alban Arena

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music, dance & more

What’s on in July 42 August 44 Index of Businesses

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accountants to windows & doors

To Advertise: 07983 588291 jane@theNOWmagazines.com

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Historic People and Places Brought to Life!

Fully qualified guides have been showing people around our City and District for 50 years. Join us on any one of the 16 walks and hear about the fascinating yesteryears from the Romans to Victorians. Walk well known and lesser known places.

You will be surprised by the many tales about people who have built, lived and worked here for 1000 years.

Walks for July & August Meet at the front of the Old Town Hall unless otherwise stated Buy tickets from the guide on the day or from the St Albans Visitor Information Centre, Alban Arena, St Albans AL1 3LD Walks last about one and a half hours. Adult £4, child £2 (5-15 years) Visit our website for full details of our walks and other information Fishpool Street - Rags and Riches 2nd, 16th, 30th July & 13th, 27th August @ 2.30pm Meet outside Verulamium Museum Historic St Albans - A City Revealed 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st July & 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, 29th August @ 11am There’s More to the Tudors than Henry VIII 10th July & 29th August @ 2.30pm A Roman City Revealed 9th, 23rd July & 6th, 20th August @ 2.30pm Meet outside Verulamium Museum Aristocrats, Paupers and Philanthropists 17th July & 21st August @ 2.30pm Coaching Inns 7th August @ 2.30pm Victorian St Albans 31st July @ 2.30pm Medieval Lives 3rd July & 28th August @ 2.30pm Historic Pubs of St Albans 24th July @ 2.30pm Discover Redbourn 7th August @ 2.30pm Meet in the car park by the cricket ground A Monastery Revealed 14th August @ 2.30pm

Tourist Information Centre 01727 864511 www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

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Give a little time to Guide Dogs Come and join the Guide Dogs team.

By volunteering you'll be helping to make a huge difference to the lives of people who are blind and partially-sighted. But that's not all, you'll be part of a great team, and learning new skills and we promise you'll have a lot of fun!

We rely on many volunteers, to care for our dogs, guide people who are blind or partially sighted, raise funds, hold a bucket or cheer on marathon runners.

Volunteers are closely involved in almost every area of what we do.

To find out what you can do visit www.guidedogs.org.uk

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WIN TICKETS for Harpenden Blues, Rhythm & Rock Music Festival and The Undertones

This month we’re delighted to give you the chance of winning tickets for two great events at Harpenden Public Halls. We have a pair of tickets for The Undertones and a pair for the Harpenden Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festival

The Undertones 29th July 7.30pm To be in with a chance of winning just text ‘UNDERTONES’ and your name by 15th July to 07983 588313 * The band emerged from Derry in 1976, the result of five friends learning how to play basic rock and roll in their bedrooms, which led to them recording ‘Teenage Kicks’ in 1978. The band signed with Sire Records, and other punk pop gems such as `Here Comes The Summer`, Jimmy Jimmy`, `My Perfect Cousin` and four LPs followed. 2016 is their 40th Anniversary so come and celebrate with them in this live show. Tickets £20 from Harpenden Public Halls

Harpenden Blues, Rhythm & Rock Music Festival 30th July 2pm - 10pm To be in with a chance of winning just text ‘BLUES’ and your name by 15th July to 07983 588291 * Showcasing the quality of live music in the UK, the festival comes to Harpenden for the first time!

Headlining act Climax Blues Band with huge selling albums FM/Live and Gold Plated, the 1976 hit single “Couldn’t Get It Right” and “I Love You” in 1981.

Kyla Brox whose voice remains a stunning example of the soul singer's art!

Laurence Jones who sings, plays and writes!

Husky Tones whose inventive, individual approach to the blues is aware of tradition without being a slave to it!

Southbound offering Blues and Southern Rock, and The Tom Seals Band - the mantle of UK Piano Man has been dominated by Elton John, Jools Holland and Jamie Cullum and no one else has come close - until now!

With this calibre of artist this will definitely be a festival to remember!

Early Bird tickets at £21 from 01472 349 222 or www.harpendenbluesfestival.co.uk/tickets www.facebook.com/bluesfestivalsuk

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Harpenden Public Halls, Southdown Road, Harpenden www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk 01582 767525

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Julia Reading

BSC (Hons) MChS, HPC Registered Podiatrist

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

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I Treat The Following Foot Conditions Corns * Callous * Fungal nails Ingrowing toe nails * Verrucas General foot health advice For an appointment please phone

07746 472781

Tuesdays Nash Pharmacy (next to Waitrose) 2 Ermine Close, St Albans Mon & Fri / Tues or Wed pm Southdown Clinic Harpenden Home Visits Available

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KARLA JORDANS HAIRDRESSING Summer Has Arrived!!!

Pop in and talk to our Team about brightening up your hair Baliage and Polished Platinum are very much on trend this summer

We require models for training in cut & finish and will soon be moving onto colour. Give us a call and mention st albans NOW magazine to get your first appointment with our trainee FREE! CALL NOW on 01727 859498 Colour Me Beautiful coming soon 41 Abbey Avenue, St Albans, Herts AL3 4BH

30% Off Weight Loss Programmes until 31st July

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Children's Gardening Clubs Walk in the Lavender For something completely different why not take a trip to Hitchin Lavender and enjoy a walk through 25 miles of lavender rows, while picking your own fresh flowers and don’t forget to take a look at their beautiful sunflowers and wildflower area as well.

The farm has spectacular views of rural Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire with many interesting walks to enjoy.

While you’re there why not stop for lunch or homemade cakes, browse the products available or choose from the large variety of lavender plants in the beautiful 17th century barn. Open until 18th September so why not go along and enjoy a lovely day out!

Cadwell Farm, Ickleford, Hitchin SG5 3UA 01462 434343 www.hitchinlavender.com

28th July / 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th Aug / 1st Sept Run by Head Gardener, Mary, these activity mornings are great for children aged 4 - 10 years. Make a miniature garden to take home or join the bug hunt, these sessions are always great fun!

Walled Garden, Luton Hoo Estate www.lutonhooestate.co.uk

Pick Your Own Hawkswick Lodge Farm will be open again this summer, please check the website for opening times.

The farm grows soft fruit including Strawberries, Raspberries, Red Currants, Blackcurrants, Blackberries and Gooseberries.

Tues - Fri: 10am - 6pm Sat and Sun: 9am - 6pm Monday: closed Hawkswick Lodge Farm AL3 6JG www.hawkswickfruit.co.uk

Royal Gardens of the Rose Open for the summer season, the Gardens are a magnet for anyone with a passion for roses with displays of historic and modern varieties in different settings and planting arrangements.

It’s a great place to get ideas for how and where to plant roses in your own garden or to simply spend a few hours in a uniquely relaxing, reflective and inspiring environment. Don’t miss the 72 arch pergola, ornamental fish ponds, and the large selection of roses from some of the UK’s premier growers.

Entry £6, open 7 days a week, 10am - 5pm Wonderful tea room with cakes and afternoon teas.

Chiswell Green Lane, St Albans AL2 3NR www.rnrs.org.uk

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Justin Leon Garden Maintenance All Aspects of Gardening Undertaken

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

07789 961233

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Here’s just a taster of the many authors taking part in this years festival: 4th July Ken Livingstone: Being Red: A Politics for the Future The County Constitutional Club AL1 3AG 7.30pm - 9.30pm The former Mayor of London, one-time MP and exleader of the GLC will be promoting his new book.

Frank Gardner OBE: Discussing his debut thriller ‘Crisis’ St Albans Cathedral 7.30pm - 9pm The BBC security correspondent, who survived being shot by Islamist gunmen in 2004, talks about global security and discusses his debut thriller.

5th July Carol Hedges: A Journey Back to 1860’s London Oxfam Bookshop 7.30pm - 8.30pm Carol will take you on a journey back to the 1860’s to visit the sights, sounds and people of the past.

6th July Why Women Will Save The Planet Blacksmith’s Arms AL1 3HG 8pm - 9pm This book challenges us to look differently at world problems and where solutions might be found.

7th July Dave Gibbons: A Retrospective look at his Career Waterstones 7.30pm - 9pm Looking at his time working for 2000AD, his art and scripts for Marvel, DC and Dark Horse, through to his recent collaboration on blockbuster Kingsman.

8th July Anthony Lester QC in conversation with Martine Croxall St Peters Church 7.30pm - 9pm The Liberal Democrat peer who was at the heart of the 30-year campaign which resulted in the Human Rights Act 1998, and the struggle to bring about the Equality Act 2010.

9th July Clangers - The Brilliant Surprise St Peters Church 10am Based on the first Clangers picture book children will hear a story before designing and making their very own Clanger finger puppet. Ages 3+ Katherine Woodfine - The Mystery of the Clockwork Sparrow/The Mystery of the Jewelled Moth St Peter's Church 11.30am - 12.30 pm Join Katherine on an Edwardian adventure through Sinclair’s, London’s most prestigious department store. Learn about how she writes and help solve a mystery or two. Ages 8+

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Lisa Heathfield: Young Adult Workshop Debenhams Ottaway AL1 3EW 11.30am - 12.30pm Stand By Me meets We Were Liars - a stunning breakout young adults novel from the author of Seed, with a heartbreaking and shocking twist.

The Wimpy Kid Show St Peters Church 12.30pm - 1.30pm A must for all Wimpy Kid fans, Alastair Watson brings the books to life with activities including The Wimpy Kid Draw-Along and The Wimp Wars Quiz.

Killer Women Crime Fiction Panel St Peters Church 3pm - 4pm This event promises to expose the tricks of the trade used by 3 of the nation’s top crime writers: Sarah Pinborough, Angela Clarke and SD Sykes.

How to Make (Awesome) Comics - Workshop with Neill Cameron St Peter's Church 3.30pm - 4.30pm, ages 6 -12 years with an adult Making The Detectives with Peter Robinson and David Mark St Peters Church 5pm - 7pm Creators of Det Sgt Aector McAvoy and DCI Alan Banks look at how writers come up with lead characters and develop their lives and personalities.

Alison Weir on Katherine of Aragon - The True Queen St Peters Church 7.30pm - 10pm In her new novel, Alison tells the story of Katherine of Aragon, drawing on new research while keeping closely to historical record.

Ben Aaronovitch The Rivers of London Waterstones 7.30pm - 10.30pm A cult supernatural crime series following the adventures of Police Constable and apprentice wizard Peter Grant.

10th July Tracey Borman: The Private Lives of the Tudors St Peters Church 3pm - 4pm Presenting a definitive look at Tudor life turning everything you think you know about the world’s most famous dynasty on its head and exploring the secrets of servants, attendants and those who surrounded the monarchy.

Literary Evensong St Peters Church 6.30pm - 7.30pm Service celebrating the life and works of writers with local connections from Francis Bacon to Charles Dickens. www.stalbansliteraryfestival.co.uk

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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 Please visit Verulam Fencing on Facebook for reviews and pictures www.facebook.com/verulamfencing 16

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For ALL Aspects of Professional Tree Surgery PLEASE CALL 01923 682201 or visit www.fircrofttreesurgeryltd.co.uk

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NOW for the Kids Verulamium Museum 2nd July 1pm - 4pm Free History Pin-a-thon Do you know Folly Lane from Fishpool Street? Do you like old pictures of St Albans? If so join in and plot historic images from the museums collections onto an interactive map.

Book on 01727 751810.

Big Wild Sleepout

30th & 31st July The RSPB at Rye Meads is opening its doors to host Ancient Poo - a Surprising Treasure! the ultimate sleepout. There’ll be a sunset walk, 16th July 1pm - 3pm Free Drop in and discover the amazing things we can learn stargazing, BBQ, campfire and marshmallows, moth trapping and night-time games. In the morning enjoy a about people in the past by their poo. Take a look at picnic breakfast while you watch the reserve come to archaeological poo, and have a go at dissecting, life. You’ll need to bring your own tent, food and drink studying and even making a pretend poo! for the BBQ, and torch and camera to take part in the Curious Coins evening’s activities. If you can’t join the RSPB 23rd July 2pm - 5pm sleepover, don’t worry, just pitch a tent in your garden Try your hand at metal detecting, identifying coins, or sleep under the stars. Please book by contacting coin rubbing and stamp a coin to take home. £1 emma.hudgell@rspb.org.uk or call 01992 708384 Children must be accompanied by an adult RSPB Rye Meads Nature Reserve SG12 8JS 30th July - 29th Aug www.RSPB.org.uk Exhibition: Hertfordshire’s Hidden Heroines Photo: Tom Mason Be inspired by nearly 2000 years of astonishing women, from Edwardian parachutists to pioneers of Play in the Parks 27th July - 26th Aug Free science. Listen to stories of some of today’s Summer holiday fun activities for ages 3 -12 years, run by a Hertfordshire heroines in their own words and enjoy team of play leaders in 15 parks across the St Albans original art work inspired by the project and fun District. Just turn up! interactives for little heroes and heroines.

For more information contact Alex on 01727 819531 or www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Alex.Varran@1life.co.uk

Festival of Archaeology

Summer Spectacular 23rd July - 4th Sept There’s acres of fun to keep the kids entertained all summer long including the A-maize-ing Maze, Goat Racing around the animal race track and live shows with Peter Rabbit and Lily Bobtail.

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

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More and more people these days are interested in the world of media whether it be in front of camera, behind the scenes or online.

‘Teens on Screen’ TV Presenter courses give young people the chance to experience what it’s like to be a TV Presenter!

Lewis Peers, a 14 year old student from St Columba’s College came to our first ever course in February and enjoyed the day so much that he’s just attended our follow on course Take 2!

This takes the students to the next level, where they read the news with a co-presenter using Autocue, doing an ‘as live’ weather report using green screen, tricky but great fun, and presenting a gadget!

Lewis said “The courses gave me a great insight into what it’s like to be a real TV Presenter and it really boosted my confidence to present and communicate at school” To find out more just email us at bookings@teensonscreen.co.uk

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Do Something for Charity

Race for Life 24th July 11am St Albans 5k & 10k races Adults (women aged 16+) £14.99 Children (girls aged 6+ and boys aged 12 or under) £10, under 6 (girls & boys) free.

Verulamium Park, St Albans www.raceforlife.org

Rennie Grove Ashridge Trail Half Marathon 16th July Join hundreds of runners in a challenging off-road route through the beautiful Ashridge Estate RAF Halton Triathlon 31st July Test your endurance in the 600m swim, 24.5k cycle and 5k run. www.renniegrove.org UK registered charity no 297489

3 Peak Challenge A group of mainly novice walkers including Special Olympics St Albans parents, and 1-Life and St Albans City and District Council employees, will come together on the 8th and 9th July and attempt to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours, to raise £10k for the Special Olympics St Albans (SOSA) which provides weekly sporting and community initiatives for those with a learning disability ages 7+. Funds raised will go towards helping a team of 65 athletes at the 2017 Special Olympics National Summer Games.

To make a donation visit www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/3-peaks

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The Grape Escape Are you up for a new cycle challenge?

Harpenden charity, the A-T Society, is looking for keen cyclists, to pedal 346 miles over 4 days starting from St Albans Cathedral on 7th September and finishing at Epernay, the Champagne capital of France.

The A-T Society was founded by a Harpenden family 26 years ago to support UK families living with the rare genetic condition Ataxia-Telangiectasia, with 1 in 200 people unknowingly carrying the gene, the Champagne Tour will bring valuable funds and welcome publicity for a little charity which makes a huge difference.

So if an intense, exhilarating and rewarding cycling experience is at the top of your list, then get in touch today and secure your place. info@atsociety.org.uk 01582 760733 www.atsociety.org.uk/champagne

SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMPS 1st - 5th, 8th - 12th & 22nd - 26th August

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Jolly July M Festival 9th July 2.30pm -11pm A fantastic line-up of over 30 acts with something for everyone.

Previous performers Soulfish and Tommy T and the BelleTones will certainly get the crowds dancing! There’s a new 'Kids Zone' plus the usual favourites from Zorbing and Gladiators to Jousting and Bungee Running as well as a BBQ, Pimms Tent, Hog Roast and lots more.

The Marlborough Science Academy Watling Street, St Albans AL1 2QA www.themfestival.co.uk

St Albans Town & Country Show 16th & 17th July 11am - 6pm This years show promises to be a great day out with a Dog Agility Competition, Cookery Demonstrations, Lifestyle Shopping, Vintage Cars, Falconry and more. £7.50, concs £6 / £3 Highfield Park St Albans AL4 ODB www.stalbanscountryshow.co.uk.

Open Air Cinema Luna Cinema at Highfield Park AL4 0RA 7th July Pretty Woman gates 7.45pm, film 9.15pm 27th July Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves gates 7.30pm, film 9pm www.thelunacinema.com

150th Anniversary of the Clock Tower Restoration Climb the clock tower and learn more about the restoration project that took place 150 years ago.

Selected weekends until 25th Sept, for opening times visit www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Clock Tower, High Street AL3 4EL

Exhibition: Don't Lick the Wallpaper: Perils of the Victorian House

The Big Friendly Read This years’ Summer Reading Challenge theme celebrates 100 years of the wonderful writer Roald Dahl and his gloriumptious stories.

The event takes place every year during the summer holidays, so just sign up at your local library and read six library books to complete the Challenge. There are exclusive rewards to collect along the way, and it’s free to take part.

Visit the website for competitions, book recommendations, write book reviews, enter competitions, chat to other readers and much more… www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

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26th July - 27th Nov From mercury and madhatters to lead and lipstick the Victorian house was a dangerous place. Forget cosy cottages and grand estates - everyone was working hard to survive; follow deadly chemicals through the house, dodging fire, famine and fatal fashions to survive, but whatever you do, don’t lick the wallpaper!

British Schools Museum, Hitchin SG4 9TS www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk 01462 420144

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g.uk wer, High Street AL3 4EL

Harry Potter and The Cursed Child Launch Party

NOW at Hatfield House Battle Proms 23rd July £42 A summer celebration with classical music, a Spitfire aerial display, cannon and cavalry displays and a spectacular firework finale. The Rockabellas, today’s answer to The Andrews Sisters get the party started in vintage style accompanied by their horn section, The Rockafellas!

In honour of the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, the cavalry display will be performed in WW1 regalia, with a gun salute from a vintage 13 pounder WW1 field gun to herald the arrival of the Spitfire and the start of the concert. The evening will close with a flag waving, sing-a-long, and an unforgettable firework display.

Folk by the Oak 24th July £44 Enjoy award winning musicians and inspiring new talent in one memorable day, as well as a creative family area to light up your children's imagination.

Food Festival 30th & 31st July Sat: 10.30am - 6pm Sun: 10am - 5pm £10, concs £9 / £6 With up to 100 exhibitors, celebrity chef demonstrations, live music stage and a host of free activities. Including BBQ master classes, cook-along master classes and a skills theatre. www.hatfieldhouse.co.uk

30th July The Ministry of Magic invites witches, wizards and all enchanted creatures to celebrate this most auspicious night! Go and pick up your book at the witching hour!

8.30pm - 9pm: Wings of Love Owls Pedro and Ben flaunt their feathers with a talk from their owners you may be able to stroke and hold them too if you whisper the right words!

9pm - 10pm: Magic Show 10.30pm: Ultimate Harry Potter Quiz 11pm: Balloon Popping Skyfall Snitch Hunt Other enchanted activities include: Spooky Spells at Potions Corner, Top Trump Tournament, Wizard Duelling Splat Scabbers, Create your own Dream Catcher, Owl Mask Creations, Sorting Hat and Horcrux Hunt family £5, child £3, under 5’s free Tickets in store or 01727 834966 Waterstones, St Albans events.stalbans@waterstones.com

Live like a Celt 24th July - 1st Aug 10.30am £15 Come and learn the primitive skills of ancient Britain. Grinding quern stones and baking in a Roundhouse, rope making and dyeing with herbs, bracelet making and pottery.

Become a warrior, get up close to the owls and be enthralled by stories of old.

Celtic Harmony Camp, Brickendon near Hertford SG13 8NY www.celticharmony.org

Kimpton Horse Show 31st July Enjoy a jam-packed schedule of show jumping, gymkhana, fancy dress, working hunter classes and much more! Whether you plan to compete or just enjoy the atmosphere, it’s a fun and friendly competition, all in aid of raising funds for causes benefiting the lives of local people. This was the initial vision of the founder, Mr C H Harding, and the spirit of the show has never been lost; to provide fun for all, from the scruffiest little pony to the most smartly turned out show horse! www.kimptonhorseshow.co.uk

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NOW for some Art

Childwickbury Arts Fair 1st - 3rd July Childwickbury will open again this month for artists, crafters and musicians to create, make and perform. The vibrant atmosphere of the fair is the perfect environment to see artists at work, discover what goes into creating a piece of art and buy directly from them. With over 60 exhibitors including fine art, sculpture, pottery, wood, textiles, jewellery, printing and more there’ll be something to suit every taste.

01727 859495 www.facebook.com/ChildwickburyArtsFair Two amazing months of fresh contemporary art in St Albans. Buy art from local and international artists. Oil paintings, large canvas art, limited edition prints and unique photography

4th Affordable S.art Sale Pop Up Exhibition

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You Decide the Winners Before leaving, visitors to St Albans Art Society’s annual summer exhibition will be asked to select two winners - their overall favourite, who will be awarded the Terry Biggs Cup, and the most original and creative exhibit, for the Challenge Trophy.

The organisers are confident that the ‘judge for yourselves’ idea will encourage more visitors to the show which was first held more than a century ago. More than 200 works of art will be on display, with the majority up for sale.

The exhibition promises to be a colourful and spectacular event, ranging from dramatic landscapes in and around St Albans, still life, abstracts and seascapes, using a variety of media.

Members of the Society will also be invited to produce works depicting different aspects of St Albans. As the Old Town Hall is currently being refurbished, how appropriate that the winner of last year’s St Albans Trophy, ‘Paddy’ by Mandy Reekie depicts ‘Paddy’ standing at the entrance to Dagnall Street with the venue of this years exhibition, the Baptist Church, in the distance! www.stalbans-artsociety.org.uk

2nd July: 10am - 5pm & 3rd July: 11am - 4pm A fun, unpretentious and relaxed pop up art exhibition for both artists and art lovers, pop along whether you’re an artist looking to exhibit or an art lover wanting to browse some great talent that can be picked up at affordable prices. Featuring work from Samantha James, Mike Adkins, Amy Pettingill, Susan Chester and Edie Jolley to name but a few.

Headcase Barbers, 12 Holywell Hill, St Albans www.affordablesartsale.co.uk

Linda & Karen Cleaning Services

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Classics Galore

NOW at the Local Theatres Abbey Theatre Under Milk Wood 1st - 3rd & 5th - 9th July A feast of vocal imagery and salty characterisation, generously garnished with humour and poignancy.

Carmen 3rd July 7pm An all-male cast, with adult themes, male nudity and scenes of sex and violence.

A Vampire Story 12th - 15th July 8pm A fast paced, funny and physical show from the Company of Teens.

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

Maltings Arts Theatre The Importance of Being Earnest 15th July 8pm Six actors and DOT Productions' bring you this Oscar Wilde masterpiece in all its satirical glory.

Jane Eyre - An Autobiography 27th - 29th July Told through Jane’s eyes, this fairy-tale romance is now distilled for the stage by writer/director Elton Townend Jones in an intimate study of love.

Malting Arts Theatre 0333 666 3366 www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk

SandPit Theatre ABBA Tribute Evening 21st July 8pm £20 Voted as the UK's No.1 ABBA tribute act, ABBA Revival will take you back to those heady disco days, and guarantee to get everybody dancing.

SandPit Theatre, St Albans www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Open Air Theatre Sense and Sensibility 17th July Enjoy an evening of Regency wonderment. Picnic with family and friends under a starlit summer evening. Bring low back chairs or picnic blankets.

Hatfield House 01522 569 222 www.hatfieldhouse.co.uk You Never Can Tell 22nd - 24th July Gates open 5.30pm, play 6.30pm £24 - £26 Shaw's seaside comedy performed in front of the house, if the weather is less than perfect the brollies go up and the show goes on. Booking essential Shaw’s Corner, Ayot St Lawrence AL6 9BX 0844 2491895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 34

Classic Motor Show 3rd July 10am - 4.30pm Join in the first Hatfield House Independence Day celebration for fans of American motor muscle! All ages of vehicle can take part and there are lots of awards to be won!

Adult £10 concs £9 / £6 www.classicmotorshows.co.uk www.hatfieldhouse.co.uk

Classics in the Walled Garden 6th July 4pm Enjoy a relaxing summer evening picnic within the historic Walled Garden on the Luton Hoo Estate, with refreshments available and a large variety of cars to see. www.lutonhooestate.co.uk

Classics on the Common 27th July 2 - 8pm Once a year, Harpenden Common comes alive with 1200 classic cars and other four-wheelers, plus 250 cycles and scooters. You’ll find a Chevy Bel Air rubbing shoulders with a 1927 Trojan, and a rare 1978 Mantra Bagheera with a ’59 Berliet plus 10,000 admiring spectators. www.classicsonthecommon.com

The Red Baron 27th - 30th July 7.30pm 31st July 3pm & 7pm Manfred von Richthofen was one of WW1’s aerial superstars. An aristocrat and huntsman, he loved flight and trained himself to be a superb air-borne killer. He was hardly ever seen with a girl though. Annoyed with being pestered by his comrades, he calls on Coco but all Manfred does is talk about planes and guns - and shooting down enemy flyers. For most of us, WW1 means trench warfare. But in 1915, for the first time in history, young men were soaring across the skies, fighting in flimsy machines for country and personal glory.

This play is about them.....and one man's astonishing change of mind. £8, ages 14+ RAF Museum London NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk

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NOW at The Alban Arena

All or Nothing - The MOD Musical 1st July 7.30pm In 1964, ‘The Mods’ appeared on the scene, they were working-class free spirits who rode sexy streamlined Italian Vespas or Lambrettas and had a passion for Rhythm ‘n’ Blues. This musical is a trans-generational musical experience celebrating the unique sound of the iconic band, The Small Faces.

Featuring hits like Whatcha Gonna Do About It, All Or Nothing, Tin Soldier, Lazy Sunday, Here Comes The Nice and Itchycoo Park.

The Hertfordshire Business Expo 4th July 10am - 2.30pm Bringing Hertfordshire businesses together for a day of Learning, Development and Networking as part of the St Albans Business Festival. Over 70 local businesses will be exhibiting, stands start from £99 + VAT. Visitors free.

Oliver 7th - 9th July 7.30pm & Sat 2.30pm With Rare Productions Youth Theatre Group The story of a young boy rising from the workhouse and striving always to see the best in people. Full of songs including, Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, As Long As He Needs Me, Reviewing The Situation and many more.

The ZKK Classics 10th July 1pm Come and see the UKBFF semi-final qualifier, with athletes competing for titles in Body Fitness, Ladies Fitness, Classic Bodybuilding, Bikini, Men’s Physique, Women’s Physique and more.

To register email wanda.tierney@ifbb-uk.com

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Decade 7 16th July 2.30pm & 7.30pm Stella Mann College presents an entertaining show, crammed with exhilarating dance numbers and fun-filled musical theatre. See the next generation of dance and singing stars in a highoctane performance of commercial, contemporary and jazz dance mixed with singing and acting.

Walter Trout 19th July 7.30pm Walter returns to the stage following his recovery from a successful liver transplant to play earth shattering Blues Rock music. His live shows are mesmerising, his guitar technique dazzling and his rapport with fans both funny and intense.

He was voted the 6th best guitarist ever in a BBC Radio listeners poll, topped the blues charts with ‘Full Circle’ and ‘The Outsider’, and gets rave reviews whenever he plays.

Rock & Roll Paradise 29th July 7.30pm A brilliant rock ‘n’ roll show where the music plays the leading role with the talented cast bringing you the show that never happened in the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll, delivered with all the flair of a 21st century live concert. You’ll be blown away by Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, the Big Bopper and Eddie Cochran, as these icons of rock ‘n’ roll join each other on stage for this musical extravaganza.

You’ll be dancing in the aisles, singing along with the music and yelling for more! www.alban-arena.co.uk 01727 844488

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NOW for some Music

Lobgesang (Hymn of Praise) and Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony with Bushey Symphony At the Court of Krakow Orchestra as part of the Bushey Festival.

2nd July 7.30pm The Grand Hall, Bushey Academy, Bushey St Albans Chamber Choir play some of the best £18, child £1 Polish choral music, both old and new, most www.busheysymphony.org.uk setting sacred texts in Latin. Works from the early Introducing a New Choir 17th century will include Giovanni Anerio’s 16th July 7pm Cantate Domino, and four pieces by Poland’s ‘Batchwood Youth and Chamber Choir’ present greatest early-era composer, Mikolaj Zielenski. their inaugural concert led by local musician Rob St Saviour’s Church, £14, concs £5 Milner, who previously set up and conducted the www.stalbanschamberchoir.org.uk Junior choir at St Michael’s Church. Rob, himself a Baritone singer, is highly committed to keeping St Michael’s Folk Evening good music alive with the youth of today.

6th July 8pm - 10pm Admission is free, with a collection to further the Held annually when those involved in folk music work of the choir. Please come along - you will not and dance perform together in the historic St be disappointed.

Michael's village in St Albans. Up to 11 groups Dagnall Street Baptist Church AL3 5EE perform English, Irish, Scottish and American dances in open-air shows, there’s live music in the Abbey Gateway Orchestra two pubs, the churchyard and the grounds of Jubilee Performance Kingsbury Manor. The bells of St Michael's 16th July 7.30pm Church ring out to welcome everyone, before the Join the orchestra in the lovely setting of street is closed to traffic. St Michael's pupils dance Kingsbury Barn to celebrate their 50th at the Lower School Maypole and unusually, anniversary, with pieces including Beethoven's nobody asks the audience for money; all the King Stephen Overture, Romance for bassoon musicians and dancers perform for free! and orchestra by Elgar and Crusell's Clarinet www.stmichaelsfolkevening.org.uk Concerto No. 3. £12, concs £10 from andrew@abbeygateway.org St Albans Choral Society Summer Concert Kingsbury Barn, Branch Road 9th July 7.30pm www.abbeygateway.org With a performance of Mendelssohn’s glorious

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What’s on in July 42

1st - 3rd Childwickbury Arts Fair see pages 26 1st - 3rd & 5th - 9th Under Milk Wood see page 34 2nd Festival on the Field Sir John Lawes School, AL5 4QP tribute act Killer Queen & more Five Miles to Fabulous Ladies Bike Ride from Morrisons, Hatfield Road, 9.30am, meet by the cycle stands www.southhertsctc.org.uk Summer Festival St Peter's Primary School, Cottonmill Lane, 3pm - 8pm Sherlock Holmes & the Hound of the Baskervilles Claydon House, Bucks MK18 2EY bring a picnic & low-backed seating, please book 08442 491895 3rd Classic Motor Show Hatfield House www.hatfieldhouse.co.uk 4th - 10th St Albans Literary Festival see page 14 4th, 5th, 7th & 13th Sandringham Arts Festival The SandPit Theatre, St Albans www.sandpittheatre.co.uk 01727 799565 4th: Summer Concert, 7pm 5th: Protége, 7pm 7th: Metamorphosis Fashion Show, 7pm 13th: Dance Through Education, 7pm 6th The Choirs & Orchestras of the Purcell School St Albans Cathedral, The Canterbury Pilgrims - George Dyson, 7.30pm, £15, £12, £10 St Michael’s Folk Evening see page 40 Classics in the Walled Garden see page 22hn from 4pm www.lutonhooestate.co.uk 9th Mass in B minor - JS Bach St Albans Cathedral, St Albans Bach Choir & other local choirs, 7.30pm, £30, £25, £18, £12 Summer Fair Alban City School AL1 3RR 12pm Heartwood Summer Family Festival page 12 Kimpton Folk Festival www.kimptonfolk.uk M Music Festival see page 24 9th & 10th Knebworth Country Show www.knebworthhouse.com 10th Musical Sunday Afternoon St Albans Organ Theatre, AL1 5PE, demos of the self-playing instruments, £7, under 11’s £3, 2pm - 4.30pm Highland Gathering see page 30 15th The Importance of Being Earnest see page 34

15th - 17th The Gruffalo's Child www.radlettcentre.co.uk Ashridge Trail Half Marathon see page 22 Keith Nichols - An Evening of Nostalgia St Albans Organ Theatre, with piano accompaniment to silent films, please book: info@stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk, 7.30pm, £10 16th & 17th St Albans Town & Country Show see page 24 17th Open Air Theatre: Sense & Sensibility page 34 21st Them Lewis Boys Harpenden Public Halls Jerry Lee Lewis tribute band, £16, 7.30pm ABBA Tribute Evening see page 34 Garden Theatre - The Railway Children www.knebworthhouse.com 21st - 23rd & 28th - 30th The Winter’s Tale Inn on the Park, www.breakawaytheatre.com 23rd Battle Proms see page 25 23rd & 24th Andy Day at Whipsnade Zoo join children's TV presenter for two days of BIG animal fun 24th Folk by the Oak see page 25 Race for Life see page 22 25th World Café on Social Mobility Soroptimist Women's Group, Chiswell Green URC Church Hall AL2 3HG 8pm - 10pm 26th - 29th FineArt4KIds Holiday Art Workshops St Michaels Church, 5 - 11 yrs, create a masterpiece, materials & refreshments provided, £20, hello@fineart4kids.com 0800 023 5814 26th July - 27th Nov Exhibition: Don’t Lick the Wallpaper page 24 27th Classics on the Common Harpenden Common, 2pm - 8pm 27th - 30th St Albans Art Socety Exhibition see page 26 29th The Undertones see page 6 Rock & Roll Paradise see page 36 30th Blues, Rhythm & Rock Festival see page 6 Harry Potter & the Cursed Child Launch Party see page 25 30th & 31st Hatfield House Food Festival see page 3 & 25 30th July - 29th Aug Hertfordshire’s Hidden Heroines see page 18

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What’s on in August 44

1st Children's Theatre on the Farm - The Wizard of Oz 2pm www.hatfield-house.co.uk 1st - 5th, 8th - 12th & 22nd - 26th Summer Football Camps see page 23 1st Aug - 1st Sept Lego Workshop Stockwood Discovery Centre, LU1 4LX, ages 5+ 10.15am - 4pm, £10 3rd NGS Open Day www.lutonhooestate.co.uk 4th Summer Storytime St Albans Cathedral, what would Paddington Bear see if he spent a day at the Cathedral? ages 3-11, 10am - 12.30pm, free 6th Eastern Electrics Music Festival Hatfield House, 11am - 10pm www.easternelectrics.com 8th, 10th, 11th, 16th - 19th, 22nd - 26th FineArt4Kids Holiday Art Workshops St Michaels Church, 5 - 11 yrs, create a masterpiece, materials & refreshments provided, £20, hello@fineart4kids.com 0800 023 5814 13th St Albans Organ Theatre Concert Dr Kevin Morgan F.R.C.O, 7.30pm, £10, child £5 www.stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk 18th Garden Theatre - Peter Pan Knebworth House, SG1 2AX, 7pm www.knebworthhouse.com 19th Jazz & BBQ www.inn-on-the-park.com 19th - 21st Flamstead Scarecrow Festival www.flamstead-herts.co.uk 20th Flying Proms Vintage www.shuttleworth.org

20th - 29th Summer Circus www.vanhage.co.uk 25th Batwalk Sopwell Nunnery, 7.30pm - 9.30pm, bring torches, book on 01992 556388 Outdoor Theatre: Peter Pan www.shuttleworth.org 26th - 29th Summer Fun Fair Harpenden Common 27th Harpenden Folk, Roots & World Music Festival www.harpendenfolkfestival.co.uk 31st Hoo’s Kids Book Fest Luton Hoo Walled Garden www.lutonhooestate.co.uk

Open Air Cinema in August Sundown Cinema Hitchin Lavender SG5 3UA 16th: Dirty Dancing, 7.30pm 17th: The Spy Who Loved Me, 7pm 18th: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 7pm 20th: Star Wars - The Force Awakens, 7.30pm 21st: The Breakfast Club, 7pm Sundown Cinema Luton Hoo LU1 3TQ 24th: Pretty Woman, 7pm 25th: The Goonies, 7pm 26th: Pitch Perfect, 7pm 27th: Star Wars - The Force Awakens, 7pm 29th: Dirty Dancing, 7pm 31st: Goldfinger, 7pm www.sundowncinema.co.uk Luna Cinema Hatfield House 26th: Star Wars - The Force Awakens 27th: Grease 28th: Labyrinth Gates: 6.30pm, film starts at dusk www.thelunacinema.com

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Index of Businesses

Accountant TaxAssist Accountants

Education 45 Kumon

Aerial Installations & Repairs Concorde Aerials

Electricians 39 Alban Electrical Services Sol Projects Ltd

Beauty Templespa Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire Building Services Brockhall Building Services Carpentry / Joinery Chris Smyth N Godfrey Carpentry Services

20 37 37 & 47

11 Fencing Verulam Fencing

16

41 Financial Management AMR Financial Management

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38 Footcare Feet First

8

28 Equity Release 28 The Right Equity Release

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Charity Traid

Garden Centres 22 Burston Garden Centre

17

Children’s Art Classes FineArt4Kids!

Gardening / Landscaping 18 Charlie’s Garden & Pressure Washing Service Garden Life Landscapes 23 Greenshouse & Gardens John Brodie Gardens Justin Leon 2 Supagrass

13 15 16 15 13 15

Children’s Football Camps St Albans City Youth FC Children’s Holiday Clubs Barracudas Children’s Nurseries Redbourn House Day Nursery Chiropodists Julia Reading Kathy Witchard Cleaning Daily Poppins Domestique Linda & Karen Cleaning Services

21

Glassware Repairs Chipped Glassware

29

Hairdresser 8 Karla Jordan’s Hairdressing 11 8 Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice 10 27 27 Home & Hardware Store 27 Clas Ohlson Back Cover

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators Gary Rackley M & M Decorating

35 35 35

Plasterer A. Merson Plastering

29

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

13

Property Maintenance Trust in Blue

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Recruitment - Nursery School Seymour House

19

Removals Akers Koplex Removers Ltd

41 41

Security Maximum Security Systems

39

Shutters Just Shutters The Harpenden Shutter Company

31 29

Slimming Vision Weight Consultancy

11

Soft Furnishings Sue Smyth

29

Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd

17

TV Presenter Course Teens on Screen

20 45 32 33 33

Conservatory Roof Solutions Nu-Look

Insurance 7 NFU Mutual

5

Credit Union St Albans District Credit Union

TV Repairs JB TV Services

Ladies Clothing 44 Froxx of Kings Langley

9

Dance & Drama Stagecoach

Organ Theatre 21 St Albans Organ Theatre

Windows & Doors Cloudy2Clear Kings Windows Sash Restorations Ltd

Dog Sitting Wagging Tails Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

Oven Cleaning 5 Ovenmaster Oven Wizards

28 28

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