st albans NOW May 2015

st albans

NOW May 2015

WIN

HERTFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW Family Tickets see inside for details

NOW at the Alban Arena Walk through the towns history

Marvellous May Events VE Day 70th Anniversary Not Just Lip Service St Albans Charity Cycle Ride

What’s on and lots more read ‘the NOW magazines’ monthly promoting local businesses, organisations and events since 2006

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Welcome to May

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

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

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

Tom’s made it to the final of Por El Planeta, a huge international competition, if you like his photography please vote for his image by 8th May at www.porelplaneta.photo.com Twitter: @TomMasonPhoto / www.tommasonphoto.com If you’d like to be in next months magazine please just get in touch and don’t forget if you need a local business just pick up ‘st albans NOW’ or read it every month online. e call Happy Reading To advertis 1 29 8 8 5 07983 Jane & Wendy line d ea D www.theNOWmagazines.com th May for June: 10 jane@theNOW magazines.com

Beating the Bounds walk the St Albans boundary

NOW for some Music music for all

NOW at The Alban Arena music, science & comedy

VE 70th Anniversary lest we forget

100 Years of the WI a force for change

NOW at the Local Theatres drama & dance

NOW at the Cathedral musics, tours & family fun

Marvellous May May festival, butterflies & ballet

NOW for a Walk and more local walks for all

Not Just Lip Service learn to lip read

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What’s on in May

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City & District Tour Guide Walks

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walk through the towns history

What’s on in June

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Index of Businesses

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accountants to windows & doors

To Advertise: 07983 588291 jane@theNOWmagazines.com

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

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

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

Why not go along and join in.

WIN one of 3

Family Tickets (2 adults & 2 children)

just text HCS & your name to 07983 588313

by 10th May

Save 20% BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE

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Acis and Galatea

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

Adult £10, under 11’s £5

9th May 8pm £15 St Albans Chamber Opera present a semi staged production of Handel's delightful opera with soloists Oliver Martin-Smith, Emily Yarrow, Peter Martin and Des Turner.

St Leonard’s Church, Sandridge, St Albans 01727 869069

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Relax under heat with refreshments from our in-salon menu, Herbal Teas, Filter Coffee, Sparkling Water and more. Maybe we could Buy You Lunch, we offer a range of sandwiches (when booking please mention you would like lunch) followed by your Cut and Finish.

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

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

Go along and have a go!

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

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NOW at the Alban Arena

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

Oliver!

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

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

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

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

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

Dylan Moran ‘Off the Hook’.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There were crowds everywhere all singing, dancing and cheering.

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

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

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

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

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

All flying is subject to weather and serviceability.

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

Imperial War Museum Duxford, Cambs CB22 4QR 01223 835000

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Ring bells, pull levers and work the signals!

100 years of the WI Why not visit St Albans South Signal Box at the City Station. There are many artefacts to see, and a signalling demonstration shows how the signalman worked. Everyone, young and old, has the opportunity to ring bells, pull levers and work the signals. Entry is free, but donations towards its upkeep and further development are welcome! You can park in the Station Car Park by Platform 4, or on Ridgmont Road. Unfortunately, there is no wheel chair access to the first floor Operating Deck.

It will be open from 2pm - 5pm on the second and fourth Sunday each month from May - October.

History When the Midland Mainline was first built, it ended at Hitchin and trains carried on into London via the Great Northern Railway into Kings Cross. Our line was built and paid for by Midland businessmen who wanted to ship coal and then beer into London.

Later this was added to with milk and vegetables, and then people!

In 1868 the Midland Mainline was completed between Bedford and St Pancras, passing St Albans on the way. The present signal box was opened in June 1892, and closed in December 1979. Although Grade II listed, it was left derelict and nearly falling-down, until a group was formed to restore it in 2002. After delays arranging a lease with Network Rail and obtaining planning permission, the Box was restored from 2007 and first opened to the public in April, 2009. Since then there have been over 13,000 visitors.

The Box won the St Albans Civic Society’s Award in 2008, and the National Railway Heritage Signalling Award in 2010, and is ranked fifth in the list of St Albans attractions. At first Network Rail wanted the Signal Box moved away, but eventually relented and it is now the largest preserved Midland Signal Box in the UK, still in its original position.

For more information please visit www.sigbox.co.uk

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The Women’s Institute was formed in 1915, to revitalise rural communities and encourage women to become more involved in producing food during the First World War. Since then their aims have broadened and the WI is now the largest voluntary womens’ organisation in the UK. They have campaigned for many causes over the years and made a real difference in so many ways.

The SOS for Honey Bees campaign for research into honey bee health was passed in 2009 as the outlook for bees remained bleak, and so the National Pollinator Strategy was launched in November 2014.

In the early 1990s the NFWI joined with CAFOD, Christian Aid, Oxfam, Traidcraft and the World Development Movement to become a founding member of the Fairtrade Foundation.

In 1986 the NFWI was one of the first organisations to talk about AIDS to educate the public and get people talking about the issue.

In 1975 the WI started informing members about the importance of breast examination and lobbying the government to set up screening clinics.

Members were among the first to debate the dangers of smoking when the WI passed a resolution to ban smoking in public places in 1964.

In 1954 the Keep Britain Tidy group was formed and was influential in transforming litter policy following the 1958 Litter Act. The WI passed a resolution calling for 'equal pay for equal work' in 1943 They campaigned throughout the 1930s and 1940s to increase the number of women police, First campaigned on jury service in 1921, urging the government to open up jury service to all.

Come and Join Kingsbury WI and make some new friends We meet every 3rd Tuesday 9.45am - 12noon Dagnall Street Baptist Church Hall, St Albans Excellent Speakers, Walking Group Book Group and Scrabble For more information ring Pat Legerton on 01727 822157

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NOW at the local theatres

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All ages.

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

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

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

Maltings Arts Theatre Playhouse Creatures

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

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

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

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

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

by Boyce, Handel & Haydn.

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

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

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

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

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

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

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

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

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

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www.stalbanscathedral.org 01727 890290

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You might not need that old sofa or wheelbarrow anymore, but there might be someone just round the corner who does.

Or if there’s something you’d like, someone nearby might have one. Lurking in sheds, attics and cupboards are items that are too good to throw away, but are not loved or needed anymore.

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NOW in Verulamium Park The Splash Park opens from 1st May, 7 days a week, 10am - 6pm, free The Herons are back This year there are about 14 nests and plenty of chicks as well as the Little Egrets which are breeding again too. The RSPB are based at the same place as last year, overlooking the lake just along from the Fighting Cocks pub, and have telescopes to help you get a close up look at the breeding birds and their newborns! You’ll be able to ask the experts about wildlife in and around Verulamium Park. Timings are subject to change but should be between 10.30am and 4.30pm weather permitting!

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Marvellous May

Markyate Plant Sale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All the Fun of the Festival 1st - 4th May

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

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

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

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

Milton Keynes Theatre MK9 3NZ www.atgtickets.com

New Butterfly House Comes to Whipsnade

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

Luton Hoo Walled Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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Brand New Performing Arts Classes for 3 - 5 year olds!

Theatretrain St Albans are excited to launch their brand new performing arts classes for younger children this summer!

Run by West End professionals, Theatretrain St Albans is a professional performing arts school that offers classes on Saturdays during term time, at Townsend Church of England School, AL3 6DR. Theatretrain Minis (ages 4 & 5) 10am - 11.30am £9 per week Including dance, drama and singing this is a fantastic opportunity for your child to develop new skills, explore their creativity, make new friends and build confidence! Theatretrain Minis will have the chance to tread the boards of The Elgiva Theatre in Theatretrain’s production of Oliver! this July.

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Theatretrain Tinies (age 3) 11.30am - 12 noon Free This free class (subject to a one-off £10 registration fee) offers your child the chance to express themselves through dance, drama and singing!

Theatretrain St Albans also runs classes for 6 - 18 year olds and offers everyone a free trial before they join.

For more information or to arrange a free trial call us on 01923 869 275 or email stalbans@theatretrain.co.uk Please note there are limited spaces available.

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Museum of Argument put History on Trial

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

9th May: Vaccination in the Dock Put history on trial. This first session will focus on historical vaccinations.

The panel includes Mark Freeman who will offer an introduction to the historic context of the smallpox vaccine, Elanor Cowland who will discuss her research into smallpox and vaccination in the St Albans area and Jan Pimblett from the London Metropolitan Archives who’ll discuss the approach of researchers to the subject and the digitisation of London’s smallpox records.

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

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01442 737790

Linda & Karen Cleaning Services

CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

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

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

01582 418777

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NOW for a Walk and more

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

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

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

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

Bluebell Walks Drop-in events 1pm and 3pm Celebrate Spring with the spectacular bluebell walks led by our Ranger. Check flowering dates at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge Wild About Ashridge 27th & 29th May 10.30am - 3pm Get closer to nature with the National Trust team.

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

01442 851227 Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berkhamsted, HP4 1LT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate

A Bit of Local History Sopwell Residents Association and Countryside Management Services are leading a history / environmental / archaeological walk on Sunday 10th May at 2pm. Meet by the seats opposite the ruins in the Sopwell Nunnery Open Space in Cottonmill Lane. It will be an easygoing walk mainly by the river and Alban Way.

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

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

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

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

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

Wear suitable shoes.

01992 588433 www.hertfordshirehealthwalks.org

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

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

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

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NOW in the Garden Sowing and planting Now that the weather has warmed up, summer bedding plants can be planted in tubs and perennials such as Cannas and Dahlias can be planted straight into the ground. Winter bedding plants and biennial spring bedding plants can also be sown anytime from now until July.

Pruning There is plenty of pruning to be done this month. To make way for summer plants, deadhead Tulips and Daffodils and remove spring bedding plants from beds and containers. As frost is unlikely in May, it should now be safe to prune tender shrubs and herbaceous perennials such as Penstemon and Fuschia. Spring flowering shrubs such as Choisya ternata can be pruned after flowering.

Evergreen hedges and shrubs such as Viburnum tinus can also be pruned this month. Pay particular attention to cutting out any frost damage.

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General maintenance To encourage strong growth next year, apply a fertiliser to spring bulbs once they have flowered. Allow the foliage of Daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs to die down naturally as the leaves are essential in producing food for healthy bulbs next year. In addition, add liquid feed to container plants on a monthly basis or more frequently.

To ensure a good display and prevent drooping, add supports for herbaceous plants before they become too tall, or produce heavy blooms.

In order to prevent weeds from seeding and spreading continue to hoe borders and beds.

Lawns To encourage lush growth, this month apply a high nitrogen summer lawn fertiliser. There is still time in early May to sow a new lawn or seed dead patches, for the best result; cultivate, level and gently firm the ground beforehand.

If your lawn isn't edged, make a 7.5cm gutter around the lawn edge using a half moon iron. This will make moving easier and stop grass growing into your borders.

Happy gardening!

James Lanwarne, Lanwarne Landscapes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Julia Reading

BSC (Hons) MChS, HPC Registered Podiatrist

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

07746 472781

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

Fully-marshalled routes, mainly on quiet country lanes.

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

Drinks and refreshments at regular checkpoints and at the finish.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More information at www.southertsctc.org.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stockwood Discovery Centre, Luton www.lutonculture.com

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

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

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

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What’s on in May 42

from 1st May Splash Park Opens see page 22 until 17th May Exhibition: Ancient Egypt Lives for Ever St Albans Museum 1st - 3rd St Albans Film Festival see page 22 1st - 4th KImpton May Festival see page 24 2nd - 4th Herts Garden Show see page 40 3rd Grumpy Old Women - Fifty Shades of Beige see page 10 4th May Day Celebrations British Schools Museum, 01462 420144, maypole & country dancing, Offley Morris Men, 10.30am, free www.hitchinbritishschools.co.uk Celtic Harmony Camp fun-packed day for all the family, 10am - 5pm, £10, under 2s free 6th We’ve Only Just Begun see page 10 A Whisper in the Heart see page 16 7th Lee Nelson - Suited & Booted see page 10 Exclusive Shopping Evening LK Bennett, Christopher Place, St Albans, 01727 731000, up to 10% discount off, 10% of sales on the night donated to IRGH, 6 - 8pm, £10 7th - 10th Living Crafts Hatfield House, 10am - 5.30pm workshops, art lectures, live craft demos, sculpture school, entertainment & over 300 British designer-makers Playhouse Creatures see page 16 8th - 10th & 12th - 16th Noises Off see page 16 9th Vaccination in the Dock see page 28 The Grand Vintage Fair Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street, retro relics & kitsch collectibles, vintage fashions & accessories, upcycled furniture, art, glass & china,10am - 4pm St Albans Choral Society 70th Anniversary Concert see page 18 Orchestral Colours St Saviour’s Church, St Albans, 01727 852768, St Albans Symphony Orchestra Concert, 7.30pm, £14, £10, £5, £1 10th Beating the Bounds see page 4 Historical Environmental Walk see page 30 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - Classical Favourites see page 10

Sunday Tea Dance Bricket Wood Social Club, Oak Avenue, AL2 3LQ, 07956 366449, Swing, Jive & Ballroom, partner not required, 3pm - 6pm, £7 on the door 13th & 14th Octonauts - the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure see page 10 14th Museums at Night British Schools Museum, Hitchin, 01462 420144, go behind the scenes & explore the collections, age 18+, 7pm - 9pm, free 15th The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show Bedford Corn Exchange, 01234 718112, £13 in advance, 9pm - 2am www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk 16th Carillon Chamber Choir St Peters Church, 01582 763774, 7.30pm, £14, concs £13 17th Lanwarne at Burstons see page 32 Steam Fair see page 40 Super Hero 5k see page 36hn St Albans Charity Cycle Ride see page 38 20th Spring into Summer at Burstons see page 2 20th - 22nd Sounds Around The Abbey see page 18 23rd Markyate Village Plant Sale see page 24 Helicopter Day with adventure 001, experience the majesty of Hatfield House, from inside, outside, & above! www.adventure001.com 23rd & 24th Herts County Show see page 4 24th Julian Lloyd Webber see page 10 24th & 25th Knebworth Festival of Transport see page 40 25th - 29th Roller Skating RollerCity, WGC, please book, all ages, 1pm & 3pm, from £6.50 www.rollercity.co.uk 26th Drop-in Roman Badge Making Verulamium Museum, St Albans, ages 3-11 years, 2- 4pm £1 26th - 29th Football Holiday Camp see page 23 26th - 30th The Sound of Music Milton Keynes Theatre www.atgtickets.com 30th Walkies at Heartwood Forest see page 22 30th & 31st St Albans Steam & Country Show see page 40 Garden Show Hatfield House, 10am - 5pm, adult £10, concs £9, u15’s free www.hatfield-house.co.uk

CITY & DISTRICT OF ST ALBANS TOUR GUIDES

St Albans, the unheralded jewel of Hertfordshire, a 1000 year old city at the heart of English history!

Join the highly qualified guides on any walk and explore and hear about the fascinating yesteryears of the City.

Walks for May & June Meet at the Tourist Information Centre unless otherwise stated, please check the website before setting off. All tickets can be bought from the guide on the day, or in advance from the Tourist Information Centre or the website.

A Roman City Revealed meet outside Verulamium Museum 9th, 23rd May & 13th, 27th June @ 2.30pm Amble in the Shambles 17th, 31st May @ 2.30pm Aristocrats, Paupers & Philanthropists 7th June @ 2.30pm Building Modern St Albans 14th June @ 2.30pm Coaching Inns 10th, 25th May & 28th June @ 2.30pm Crime & Punishment 2nd, 30th May & 20th June @ 2.30 pm Discover Harpenden meet at the War Memorial, on the Green, Harpenden 10th May @ 2.30pm Discover Wheathampstead meet in East Lane public car park, rear of Bull Pub 7th June @ 2.30pm Fishpool Street - Rags & Riches meet outside Verulamium Museum 16th May & 6th June @ 2.30pm Historic St Albans 3rd, 4th, 10th, 17th, 24th, 25th, 31st May & 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th June @ 11am There’s More to the Tudors than Henry VIII 4th, 24th May @ 2.30pm Victorian St Albans 3rd May & 21st June @ 2.30pm Tourist Information Centre 01727 864511 www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

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What’s on in June 44

5th St Columba’s College Open Day see page 27 Folk at the Maltings Arts Theatre St Albans, 0844 870 0887, 8pm, adult £10, concs £8, child £6 5th & 6th / 9th - 13th: 8pm / 7th: 2.30pm The Shawl & Duck Variation Abbey Theatre, 01727 857861, 2 rarely performed one-act masterpieces by David Mamet 6th Harpenden Carnival Harpenden Common, this year includes Discovery Day, Art on the Common & the return of the carnival procession: 12 noon, events: 12.30pm - 6pm, free Dark Blues Summer Party Herts County Show Ground, 8pm - 1am, £25 www.darkblues.co.uk 6th & 7th Brick Traders Inn on the Park, Verulamium Park, St Albans, buy & sell Lego, 10 - 5pm 7th Talk: Iron Age Verulamium Museum, free, 3pm Coin Detectives Family Event Verulamium Museum, Can you detect the hidden coins lurking in the Museum? 2pm - 5pm, free Ashridge Trail Half Marathon see page 45 12th & 14th Magna Carta 800th events taking place in a number of venues including the Victorian Courtroom & St Albans Cathedral 13th Prison Education on Trial see page 28 14th Lanwarne at Burstons see page 32 Summer Fayre Oaklands College, Hatfield Road, fashion show, equestrian demonstrations, crafts, sports competitions & more, 11 - 5pm 17th St Columba’s Open Evening page 27 20th The Alban Pilgrimage www.enjoystalbans.com Baroque & Beyond St Peters Church, 01582 763774, Carillon Chamber Choir, 7.30pm, adult £14, concs £13, child £5 21st Redbourn in Steam Redbourn Village Museum, 11am - 3pm, adult £2, child £1 Alban Street Festival St Peters Street, performance arena, 2 music stages, creative activities, 12 noon - 6pm 24th BBC Radio 3 Choral Evensong Broadcast Live St Albans Cathedral,

Cathedral Choir, all welcome, please be seated by 3.15pm Pride & Prejudice Highfield Park, St Albans, 0871 2200260, please bring rugs or low-backed seating, 7.30pm, adult £14, child £10 27th Glow & Walk see page 45 St Albans Folk Festival - The Day of the Dance dance displays around the city centre, 10.15 - 5pm A Great British Concert

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

UK registered charity no 297489

Grove House Spring Ball

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

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

9th May 7pm for 8pm An evening of fine dining followed by live music to dance the night away. An auction and raffle will also be held on the night. Money raised at this event will go to Grove House, part of Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, Harpenden 01727 731028

Ashridge Trail Half Marathon 7th June This 13 mile off-road sponsored event starts and finishes at the stunning Ashridge House near Berkhamsted and takes you on a challenging course through the the beautiful Estate. Ruth Proudfoot, Events Fundraising Manager at Rennie Grove, says: “This has proved to be a really popular event that sold out last year, so register early.”

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

Registration costs £25 and includes a T-Shirt, water en route and use of a timing chip. To register visit www.renniegrove.org/ashridgetrail or call 01442 820740. www.renniegrove.org

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Index of Businesses

Accountant TaxAssist Accountants

41

11 26

Aerials Concorde Aerials

9

Beauty Skin & Tonic

Education Kumon

7

Electricians Alban Electrical Services I & B Electrical MLC Electrical Sol Projects Ltd

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

39

Blinds Colourblindz

13

Hot Tubs A5 Hot Tubs

Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

11 11 8 11 & 47

Fencing Verulam Fencing

19

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorating

17 17

Plasterer A. Merson Plastering

28

31

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

Bowling Club Batchwood Hall Bowling Club

39

Building & Refurbishment KPC Property Services

Financial Management AMR Financial Management

41

Pond Maintenance Women With Waders

15

Flooring Creative Wood Flooring

19

Private Healthcare Spire Harpenden Hospital

Café Inn on the Park

36

Foot Care Feet First Golinska Foot Care

Carpentry / Joinery Chris Smyth

19

Charity Traid

44

Football Camps St Albans City Youth Footbal Club

22

Garden Centre Burston Garden Centre

Children’s Art Classes FineArt4Kids!

Chiropodists Julia Reading Kathy Witchard

36 36

Cleaning Big Yellow Daily Poppins Domestique Linda & Karen Cleaning Services Murray’s Cleaning Services

29 29 28 29 29

Computer Tuition TechTeach Dance & Drama Stagecoach Theatretrain

9 27 26

37 37

23 2

Gardening / Landscaping Charlies Garden Service Garden Life Landscapes Justin Leon Lanwarne Landscapes Supagrass The Garden Tidy

33 2 33 32 31 31

Gas K25

13

Glassware Repairs Chipped Glassware

17

Hairdressing Karla Jordans Hairdressing Hearing Services The Hearing Healthcare Practice

7

35

Back Cover

Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster

13 & 47 33 5

Property Maintenance Nick The Handyman

15

Recruitment Agency KA Marketing

41

Removals Stephens

15

Retirement Homes McFarland Park & Leisure Homes

45

School St Columba’s College

27

Shutters The Harpenden Shutter Company

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Slimming Vision Weight Consultancy

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Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd

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TV Repairs JB TV Services

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Windows & Doors Cloudy2Clear Kings Windows Sash Restorations Ltd

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The Festival is Back!

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

We have made every effort to ensure that any material published in st albans NOW is correct and can accept no liability for any errors or delays in publication or distribution, st albans NOW accepts no responsibility for its advertisers .

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DJ&M PLUMBING SERVICES LTD ●

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Complete

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Bathroom, Cloakroom, Shower Room and Kitchen Installations

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Local Family Run Business, Over 30 Years Experience

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Honest and Reliable Service Free Consultation/ Quotation for all Enquiries

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Tiling Plastering Electrical

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Discounts On All Bathrooms Supplied

Electric and Power Showers Ball Valves and Overflows Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and Basins Repair/Renew Stopcocks and Taps Plumb in Washing Machines and Dishwashers Repair Leaking Pipes Outside Taps

Dean Herrington 07830 159010 info@djmplumbing.co.uk

01727 764217 www.djmplumbing.co.uk

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