st albans now March 13 by wendy robertson

march 2013

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welcome to march

Spring is here and what joy to have the tulips and St Albans Film Festival daffodils brightening up the garden at last. This films, film making & more months magazine is full of exciting things to do, the NOW at the Alban Arena first ever ‘St Albans Film Festival’, a week of music music, comedy & storytelling with ‘St Albans MusicCity’ and a choice of local NOW at Trestle Easter egg hunts, there’s bound to be something for fables, music & puppetry everyone. So get out there and be part of the local scene. The Garden and Beyond Luton Hoo open art exhibition Along with many of you, Jane’s daughter is waiting to find out which senior school she will go to in Easter Egg Hunts September, oh how time flies, it only seems Ashridge, Dunstable Downs, St Albans moments since that first Mothers Day card! NOW at the Museums Wendy was playing a word game with her son the storytelling & more other day, and when describing ‘antique’ said ‘something old and precious’, his answer was St Albans Music City ‘grandmothers’ which is so true, so as it’s Mothers folk, blues & jazz, indie, metal & pop Day this month, lets remember grandmothers too! NOW at the Cathedral Don’t forget you can read music, tours & trails ‘the NOW magazines’ each month Verulam Golf Club online at www.harpendennow.com

4 8 10 12 14 18 20 22 24

enjoy the golf experience

Happy Easter

What’s on in March 40 & April 42

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Index of Businesses 46 accountants to weddings

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quiz night St Albans & District Voluntary Fundraising Committee is holding its annual quiz night at St Stephen’s Church Hall, Watling Street on

Saturday 9th March at 7 30pm Tables will be available for 6 or 8 people at £12 per person, which includes a fish and chip supper. Please bring your own drinks, glasses and cutlery. Parking available Raffle during the evening. Tickets from Avril Foster on 01727 862079 or avril.foster@ntlworld.com

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NOW at the Alban Arena

Chris Addison: The Time Is Now, Again 2nd March 8pm The star of ‘The Thick of It’, and ‘Mock The Week’ brings his tour to St Albans. Top class stand-up, £20. The Irish House Party 3rd March 7.30pm All Ireland champion musicians, fantastic presenters with great banter and some excellent Irish dancing, delivering the best traditional night of musical entertainment from the Emerald Isle, £18.50. The Straits In Concert 4th March 7.30pm Formed by Alan Clark and Chris White from ‘Dire Straits’ due to the demand to hear the band’s much loved songs. An evening not to be missed. Pam Ann Around The World 5th & 6th March 8pm Pam Ann is the brand new face of London Heathrow Sky Team’s Terminal 4. Taking you on a raucous journey from security check-in, to boarding, to hopefully landing. Prepare to be flown like you’ve never been flown before. £20 - £26. Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac 7th March 7.30pm ‘Fleetwood Mac’ are back to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of their 11th studio album, ‘Rumours’, a nostalgic evening of breathtakingly outstanding musicianship, £22.50. The Ragdolls 8th March 8pm Four harmony vocalists who recreate the magic of Frankie Valli and the four Seasons. Slick choreography, astounding costumes, big hair and a falsetto that really sets the scene, £15. Richard Thompson; The Electric Tour 9th March 7.30pm One of this country’s greatest songwriters and most distinctive guitar virtuosos, his songs have been covered by everyone from Alison Krauss to Robert Plant.

Totally Tina 15th March 8pm Winner of ‘Stars In Your Eyes’ Justine brings you her tribute to the sensational Tina Turner, £16. The Military Wives 17th March 7.30pm A choir of Military Wives and The Band of The Royal Anglian Regiment and guests, £19.50. Gilbert & Sullivan Abridged 22nd March 7.30pm This show brings you as much fun, zaniness and humour as can be found while performing all fourteen operetta’s in ninety, hilarious, topsy-turvy minutes! £17.50 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 26th March 1pm & 4pm 27th March 10am & 1pm A young Fairy Princess, who is still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go quite right! This story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family, £13.50, u16’s £11.50, family £45. Hats Off To Led Zeppelin 23rd March 8pm A stunning tribute to the greatest rock band ever! Shut your eyes and you’ll think you’re listening to the real thing again! £15 Fork 24th March 8pm Close your eyes and you’d swear there were instruments on stage, but every sound you hear is produced live by the human voice. Featuring the harmonies of Coldplay’s ‘Viva La Vida’ to the rousing ‘Gaga’ medley, along with a large helping of wit and humour, £15. An Audience with Jodi Picoult 30th March 7.30pm Jodi’s new novel, ‘The Storyteller’ explores the long-lasting emotional scars of the holocaust and WWII. Her books combine topical moral issues, emotional human drama and the page-turning compulsion of a thriller. £23 (includes a copy of The Storyteller)

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NOW at the Maltings

NOW at Trestle Aesop’s Fables

Chuck and Angela Silverman Friday 1st March 8pm Chuck and Angela Silverman are a highly regarded local music duo, singing traditional and contemporary songs accompanied by a wide range of stringed instruments. This concert takes place on the eve of the launch of an exhibition about the vibrant local folk scene, past present and future to be held at the Museum of St Albans. £8 - £10

King King Saturday 16th March doors 7.45pm, music 8.30pm ‘Shades of Blues’ presents 'King King' featuring Alan Nimmo. The official 'Best' contemporary Blues Rock Band in the land. £12.50 The Maltings Arts Theatre The Maltings www.ticketsource.co.uk/ovo 844 8700 887

Blown Away Sunday 7th April 11.30am & 2.30pm What if, one windy night a little girl arrives in your bedroom and tells you she’s the wind? Join us as a small boy finds himself swept up and whisked away on an unforgettable journey with her. A beautiful and engaging show containing live music, shadow puppetry and movement from Birds Nest Theatre. For ages 3 - 6 years Adult £11, concs £9, family £36 01727 850950

Trestle Youth Theatre In partnership with ‘Tip of the Iceberg Theatre Company’, Trestle runs sessions for 5-18 year olds each Monday during term time, from 4 - 9pm. Come and have fun, learn performance skills and meet new friends! 0845 4747907 / admin@tipoftheiceberg.biz

Book Sale Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th March 12 noon - 5pm Shaw’s Corner are holding their annual Book Sale, entry is free, and there will be all kinds of second hand books; vintage, paperbacks and hard backs; fiction and non fiction. Tea and coffee will be available while you browse. Shaw’s Corner Ayot St Lawrence AL6 9BX

Sunday 3rd March 2.30pm Come and enjoy a brand new re-telling of Aesop's Fables. See the stories of the ‘Boy Who Cried Wolf’, ‘The Hare and the Tortoise’, ‘The Dog and the Bone’ and ‘The Travellers and the Bear’. All brought to life using singing, puppets, four human beings and a large amount of silliness! Adult £11, concs £9, family £36 01727 850950

Story Tent and Tea Time Tales A fun-filled hour of magical, professional storytelling and captivating craft creation. Sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during term time for 2-5 and 5-7 year olds. Contact Kathryn Holt on 01727 839784 / 0775 8667 624 / kathryn@kathrynholt.com

Trestle Arts Base Russet Drive www.trestle.org.uk

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Easter at Ashridge Friday 29th March 10am - 4pm ÂŁ2.50 Put on your wellies and join in with the annual Easter egg trail, discover the secrets of the woodland at Ashridge and learn more about the creatures who live there. Answer questions along the way and collect your reward at the end. On Sunday and Monday there will be free, fun family activities, including the National Egg and Spoon Race on Easter Monday... don't forget to bring your spoon! Dogs on leads welcome

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Easter Egghead Hunt 23rd, 24th, 29th, 30th, 31st March and 1st April Join us for an exciting Easter Egg Hunt while exploring the Downs and win a yummy Cadburys chocolate egg! There will be lots of Easter family fun happening, all in the glorious surroundings of Dunstable Downs. 10.30am - 4.30pm ÂŁ2 (for trail and chocolate prize) booking advisable Chilterns Gateway Centre Dunstable Downs 01582 500925 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dunstabledowns

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bird watching From now until Sunday 28th April, RSPB staff and volunteers will be on duty from Wednesday - Sunday at the viewpoint at the southern end of the lake in Verulamium Park, with the newlyinstalled nest camera for close-up views of the herons and their chicks. www.rspb.org.uk/ datewithnature

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NOW at the museums www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Museum of St Albans 9a Hatfield Road, 01727 819340

Verulamium Museum St Michaels' Street, 01727 751814

Blood, Lust and Roses! 3rd March 2 - 3.30pm for 6 Sundays Your chance to write, direct and star in a historical soap about the Wars of the Roses! Every Sunday for 6 weeks from 3rd March. Book now 01727-751810 adam.ditchburn@stalbans.gov.uk Ages 13+

Stake Your Claim Freeze Frame! 5th March 11am - 3pm Outside the Town Hall An opportunity for you to share what you think is special about St Albans, free.

The Lion Under the Stairs: Storytelling Workshops

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9th March 1pm - 3pm for over 18’s

Calendar Girls by Tim Firth 28th February - 9th March 8pm Matineé: 3rd March 2.30pm performed by the Company of Ten The funny, feel-good true story of how that famous WI calendar came to be published. The play has become the fastest selling in British theatrical history. Catch it while you can. adult £10.25 - £12.25, concs £9.25 - £11.25 Carmen Monday 18th - Friday 22nd March 7.30pm Saturday 23rd March 3pm Now in its twenty-fifth year, St Albans Chamber Opera presents Bizet’s smouldering tale, sung in an English translation by Ruth and Thomas Martin. Carmen lures Don Jose away then drops him for the toreador Escamillo. Habanera, Flower Song and Toreador Song are just some of the recognisable tunes you’ll hear along the way. adult £18, under 21’s £10 Abbey Theatre Westminster Lodge, St Albans Box Office 01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

16th March 1pm - 3pm for 13-18 year olds 28th March 6pm - 8pm for over 18’s Museum of St Albans. Get input from a professional storyteller on how to create and tell a story. This may inspire you to participate in our Lion Under the Stairs Storytelling Competition which closes on 7th April, free.

Tots Tales 13th March 11am & 1.30pm Museum of St Albans for ages 2-4 years, £1

Sunday Stories for children 24th 3pm - 4pm Museum of St Albans, for ages 7+, £1

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St Albans MusicCity MusicCity features an abundance of gigs at regular venues plus workshops and special events including a Folk Music and Dance exhibition at The Museum of St Albans. The opening Saturday will include MCU2 (MusicCity Unsigned) a showcase of some of the finest local acts at The Alban Arena, featuring Jegisus, Said the Maiden, Chameleon Boy and Waiting for Katherine. The Horn will be providing DJ’s and the after-show party, with Tranquil Fury. 16th - 24th March Why not immerse yourself in the twilight leafy metropolis that is St Albans MusicCity! St Albans has a rich musical history and continues to foster a vibrant scene. This week will be a celebration of everything from traditional folk, blues and jazz through to indie, metal and pop across all the key music pubs and venues in the district.

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refreshing, innovative and vibrant It’s a wonderful time of year in the interiors calendar. Light is starting to stream through our windows and brighten up our homes and thoughts switch to making the most of our longer, warmer days and all those decorative works we would like to achieve in the home. Advanced technology gives way to colour and design opportunities that are now endless. An extremely exciting time for us as all; the fabric houses unleash a wealth of wonderfully enriched palettes with infinite creative possibilities. Textile colours are more vibrant with fresh, crisp greens, sharp bright blues, hot pinks and oranges. Warmer more muted colours range from pale pastels through to cinnamons, ochres and pistachios. Fabric and wall paper designs are also taking on a fresher feel with flora and fauna prints alongside simple prints of animals, giving a light, bright Scandinavian feel. Retro is still very much in vogue with some superb abstract and stylised

designs again in both the strong and softer colour ways. To hand are an influx of digitally printed cottons, cotton sateens and linens all mixed in with traditional weaves of wools in plaids and stripes, alongside embroidered silks and linens which have been beautifully re-coloured in the hottest interior shades. If you are a fan of neutrals you will find they have been warmed up. Mushrooms, cappuccinos, cashews, seal, truffle, mole and ash sit well against each other or as a background to a few acid cushions and accessories. Concurrently our blind and shutter manufacturers have also updated with the latest shades and hues to compliment all our furnishings. Whatever your discerning style may be, there will definitely be something in our new collections to stimulate, motivate, encourage and provoke you to spring into some interior action! Julia, Drapemasters

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NOW at the Cathedral Saturday 2nd March 7.30pm St Albans Chamber Choir Sacré Bleu! Jazz-inspired sacred music Will Todd - Mass in Blue; Bernstein - Chichester Psalms; Gershwin - I Got Rhythm Conductor: John Gibbons Will Todd (piano); Bethany Halliday (soprano); The Will Todd Ensemblem; Tom Winpenny (organ); Ruby Aspinall (harp) Tickets £25, £18, £14 (reserved), £10 (unreserved) available from 07570 454744 or tickets@stalbanschamberchoir.org.uk Sunday 3rd March 3pm More to Explore Tour: Love the Lady Chapel St Albans Cathedral’s Lady Chapel was placed in the top five in the country by The Guardian, come along and find out why. Meet at the West End of the Cathedral, free Wednesday 13th March 7.30pm St Albans School and St Albans High School for Girls Joint Schools’ Choral Society & Orchestra Fauré - Requiem; Rutter - Gloria; Chilcott - Canticles of Light; Tavener - Hymn to the Mother of God Conductor: Mick Stout Andrew Lucas (organ); David Stout (baritone) Ticket prices vary and are available from St Albans School Music Department, musicadmin@st-albans.herts.sch.uk

Thursday 14th March 8pm & 8.30pm Abbey by Night See St Albans Cathedral in a whole new light! This unique, atmospheric tour gives you the rare chance to explore the Cathedral by candlelight. As darkness descends, you will be guided around the candlelit venue by monks and historical characters who will bring to life the building’s remarkable history and highlights. Tickets £12, includes drinks reception 15 minutes before the tour time, available from the Cathedral Book Shop or 01727 890213. Restrictions apply. Saturday 16th March 7.30pm St Albans Bach Choir Mozart - Coronation Mass K317 and Solemn Vespers K339 Conductor Andrew Lucas Sinfonia Verdi Eleanor Meynell (soprano); Deborah Miles-Johnson (mezzo-soprano); Oliver Martin-Smith (tenor); Alexander Robin Baker (Baritone) Tickets: £25, £20, £15 (reserved), £10 (concessions and unreserved) Available from 01727 753173 or tickets@stalbansbachchoir.org.uk or www.stalbansbachchoir.ticketsource.co.uk Sunday 17th March 3pm Sunday Afternoon Organ Recital Tom Winpenny, Assistant Master of the Music, St Albans Cathedral. Free, retiring collection in aid of Cathedral music funds.

01727 860780 St Albans Cathedral www.stalbanscathedral.org 22

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Verulam Golf Club Golf Experience includes... Corporate and Society Golf Days Private Functions Meeting and Conference Facilities Golf and Social Membership Open and Mixed Golf Events

Verulam Golf Club in the heart of St Albans is a Members Club with a unique and historic background. Come along and visit the Golf Club where the Ryder Cup, the famous international biannual golf competition, started all those years ago. Verulam was Samuel Ryder’s home club and he was Captain when he presented the Ryder Cup. Today’s Verulam retains a lot of the historic items of bygone years, but has discreetly enhanced its facilities, so that members and visitors enjoy the modern day golf experience just as much as Samuel Ryder did all those years ago.

Verulam Golf Club is the ideal place to hold ... Business meetings and private functions The clubhouse has two bars, a restaurant that seats over a hundred people and a dance floor. The layout is interchangeable and can cater for small business meetings, seminars or large training courses or conferences. Private functions, such as birthday and anniversary parties are welcome and the facilities lend themselves to ensuring wedding receptions receive the utmost attention, with a large patio providing an excellent venue for enjoying drinks as the sun goes down. Corporate and society golf days The challenging golf course, originally laid out in 1905, provides the perfect sporting arena in which to base a corporate or society golf day for your customers, business partners or friends. The package is completed by our excellent catering facilities which can provide breakfast, lunch and dinner as required. There are a variety of options available that can be tailored to suit your individual requirements. Mixed and open events Mixed and open events feature in the Verulam Golf Club calendar throughout the year. Please see our website for further details. The main family and golfing open day is on Sunday 21st April. All golfing abilities are welcome, male or female or as a family. Join us at our spectacular city centre location for a day of: Taster lessons – clubs provided – chipping, putting, stance and grip guidance with fun competitions Meet the members – come and chat to our members in the clubhouse and ask about the Club Tips and hints on play and course etiquette – no need to be intimidated by club rules and membership mystique, hear the facts from our friendly and welcoming Professional and Golf Club staff. Membership The Club has over 400 adult playing members plus junior, social, and long distance categories. Membership is available to ladies, gentlemen, juniors, and purely social members and your golfing ability can be improved by tuition with our qualified professional staff. If you would like to visit the Club in person, either as a future member or as one of our guests you would be most welcome. For further information please call 01727 853327 option 5 or e-mail gm@verulamgolf.co.uk. To see the special offers or enjoy a visual tour of the course and clubhouse please visit www.verulamgolf.co.uk

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a new sporting centre of excellence A new regional centre of excellence for tennis and judo at Batchwood has been given the go ahead following the devastating fire at the Golf and Tennis Centre two years ago. It will be a high end venue designed to attract top athletes. St Albans judo club will have a special dojo facility as well as other multi-purpose amenities for a wide range of other sports, including six indoor tennis courts. The centre will feature a new gym and conditioning room for tennis and judo athletes plus a coach education room. A café, a sports massage facility and a sports injury clinic are also included. As part of the development, the squash courts will also be refurbished. Building works are expected to begin in April and if all goes according to plan the centre will open within the year. There will also be new golf and bowls pavilions built to replace those lost in the fire. http://twitter.com/StAlbansCouncil www.stalbans.gov.uk

Dunstable Road Runners are holding a 10k and 5k charity run on Sunday 10th March starting and finishing at Dunstable Downs. It’s a great route taking runners through fields and footpaths across the National Trust's area of outstanding natural beauty. Entry is just £12 The event is supporting the Macmillan Cancer Unit at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital and donations will benefit the chemotherapy suite making it a more comfortable and relaxing place to receive treatment. To take part call the fundraising team on 01582 718289 or email sarah.coulthard@ldh.nhs.uk

If running isn’t your thing just get together 7 of your smartest friends and take part in our fish & chip quiz night?! Starting at 6.30pm on Thursday 7th March at the

join in the community book fair Community groups are invited to raise funds by selling used books at a Community Book Fair in Verulamium Museum on World Book Night, Tuesday 23rd April, from 6pm - 10pm Participation is free but spaces are limited. To reserve a place call the museum on 01727 751810 or email adam.ditchburn@stalbans.gov.uk The deadline is Friday 22nd March Councillor Mike Wakely, Portfolio Holder for Sports, Leisure and Heritage for St Albans City and District Council, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for community groups around the District to raise much-needed funds. To ensure your group is represented at the event, remember to book early.” Admission for the public £1 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

L&D Hospital Social Club, Calnwood Road. All proceeds supporting the Cardiac Centre Appeal at the hospital. Tickets £10 call 01582 718289.

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Village Voices

‘Village Voices’ was originally established as the community choir for the Parish of St Leonard’s, Sandridge in 2008. The variety of music rehearsed over the year and the sheer joy of performance attracts members from neighbouring parishes and villages.

which hard work is required. The choir tackles a challenging repertoire through the year, including an eclectic mix of music, ranging from standard choral music to jazz, light and popular arrangements.

Anyone interested in singing will be warmly welcomed and encouraged by Cyd and members With thirty five years of professional musicianship, of the choir. For further information please contact expert tutoring and teaching to call upon Cyd Waters cydwaters@hotmail.com has brought excellent choral music to the village. or visit www.sandridgechurch.org.uk/voices The choir rehearses on Thursday evenings at Spring Concert Saturday 9th March at 7.30pm 6.30pm in the church and typically performs at least St Leonards Church, Sandridge. three concerts each year as well as participating in Programme to include: a Beatles medley, songs other local events. from Rodgers and Hammerstein shows, Jazz There are no formal auditions for entry or ongoing favourites, the Ladies Quartet and solo items. membership. We believe that singing should be fun Please do come along, tickets on the door £5 and inclusive, while also being a serious hobby for

searcher of dead bodies. Her task was to see if, as decreed by an Act of Parliament, they were buried in woollen shrouds. For In 1777 the ‘Gentleman’s this she was paid fourpence a Magazine’ carried a report of Mary body. When she reached the Lofty, aged 84, living in poverty in age of 70 the parish made a Redbourn who eeked out a charitable payment to her of livelihood in a manner “so sixpence a week. extraordinary as to make her the Then Mary fell seriously ill and general conversation of the although she recovered she was neighbouring people”. now very frail. Determined not to The daughter of a schoolmaster and wife of a become a burden on the parish, she decided to farmer, Mary was widowed after twenty years of collect horse dung “that fell in the street” and sell marriage when her husband was thrown from his it to local farmers. She would rise at three in the horse and died of his injuries. And although she morning to watch the horses and carriages that was thrifty and hard working, it seems she had went through the village, and only went to bed problems with the farm workers and had to leave when the last vehicle had gone by. At first she the farm four years later. By now her daughters collected the manure in an old wrapper, but was had married and she lived first with her elder limited in what she could carry, so Mary bought daughter and then her younger one. Both her an old box which she strapped to her body, so daughters predeceased her, leaving no one to she could collect more manure. Her efforts did provide for her. not go un-noticed and her neighbours contributed Undaunted Mary took a small cottage, which had to a subscription to buy her a wheelbarrow. just a bed, a table and two chairs. To support How sad that Mary, once the happy mistress of a herself, she weeded in a nobleman’s garden, plentiful farm, should spend her latter years in went haymaking, gleaned corn during the harvest such a way. Elizabeth Eastwood and span wool during the winter. Her honesty City & District of St Albans Tour Guide and industry earned her respect in the parish. The parish tried to help her first by appointing her

a sad tale from Redbourn

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G O L D general knowledge crossword across

ÂŠPuzzlepress.co.uk

1. Traditional story (4) 3. Woman's hairstyle in which the hair has a puffy appearance (8) 9. Place of complete bliss, delight and peace (7) 10. Imperial units of length (5) 11. Day in spring on which the Resurrection is celebrated (6,6) 14. Uncertainties, doubtful factors, ___ and buts (3) 16. Devotional paintings of Christ or other holy figures (5) 17. To stretch out (3) 18. Trend-setting fashions (5,7) 21. Civilian dress worn by a military person (5) 22. Lever operated with the foot (7) 23. Climbing garden plant having fragrant flowers (5,3) 24. Land force of a nation (4)

D U S T

down 1. Item of food associated with Christmas (5,3) 2. Divisions of the school year (5) 4. Female reproductive cells (3) 5. Vehicle of extraterrestrial origin (6,6) 6. Land area, especially of a farm (7) 7. Flip (a coin, for example) (4) 8. Popular tourist area in northwestern England (4,8) 12. Unemotional person (5) 13. Graveyard (8) 15. Horse's bit (7) 19. Mammary gland of bovids (5) 20. Tori ___, singer whose albums include American Doll Posse (4) 22. Quoits target (3)

answers on page 46 answers on page 46

Justin Leon Garden Maintenance All Aspects of Gardening Undertaken

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

07789 961233

GLORIOUS GARDENS all work approached with pride & precision

Handy-Man & Garden Maintenance - Mowing - Strimming - Hedges - Borders & Beds - Vegetable Patches Dug - Weeding & Leaves - Winter, Spring Tidy Ups

All Wooden Structures - Fencing & Sheds - Decking & Furniture - Pergolas & Gates - Rotten Wood Replaced - Wendy Houses - Wood Treatments & Painting

also offering Furniture Restoration & Carpentry

Brendon Burns Flamstead based, local references available

01582 842817 07958 927806

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

NOW in the garden Early spring is a great time to start getting your garden prepared, planted and pruned for an exciting year ahead.

Late March is ideal for moving any evergreen shrubs or trees into new positions. They will have a better chance of survival at this time, particularly if well established. Preparation Pruning To give your garden a healthy start, Hardier evergreen shrubs, such feed all trees, shrubs and even as Prunus or Laurel hedges, hedging. If the soil is workable, dig Photinia and Aucuba and most in at least 5cm of compost, well Summer flowering deciduous rotted manure or general fertiliser shrubs, such as Buddleja, into your beds to prepare for the Lavatera and Hydrangea can be season ahead. pruned in early March. This is Planting also the time to tidy any March is a good time to start overgrown climbers, such as planting, although wait until early Jasmine, Ivy and Rambling roses, April in freezing conditions or if the and prune standard or bush soil is waterlogged. Plant herbaceous perennials, roses, before their leaves unfurl. including Geranium and Astrantia and tender After pruning finish up by applying a generous summer flowering bulbs such as Gladioli or Lilies, 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden this month. To provide colour in the garden, compost or manure around the base of the hardy annuals can be sown in pots or outside in plants. Happy gardening! mild weather. James Lanwarne, Lanwarne Landscapes Ltd

get ‘your’ business noticed in harpenden now and st albans now promoting local businesses for local people

view ‘the NOW magazines’ online

call Wendy or Jane 07983 588313 07983 588291 photo courtesy of Ben Parker

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

NOW at the Hawthorne A Midsummer's Night Dream Friday 1st & Saturday 2nd March 7.30pm Fairies, lovers, hapless actors, a disapproving father and of course oodles of theatrical magic! Hermia loves Lysander and Lysander adores Hermia. But Demetrius desires Hermia while Helena dotes on Demetrius. All of this gets spun on its head at the intervention of Oberon and his sprightly fairy, Puck. With music and madness revealing the darker side of this much loved comedy. In advance £14.50, on the door £16.50

Three Little Pigs Sunday 10th March 2pm / 4pm An innovative re-telling of the classic tale, Danny has been delivered a story telling kit in a crate. All the props for the story are contained within ... or are they? Danny has to try against the odds to enact the story, without making a pig’s

ear of it. He will recount the curly tale with lots of huff, puff and you’ll be blown away by his inimitable and hilarious physical comedy, circus skills and sheer pig-headedness. Tickets £5 (1 adult free with 2 children under 10)

What the Dickens? The Misadventures of Charles Dickens Saturday 23rd March 7.30pm Comedy adventure to entertain the whole family. Young Charles Dickens is a rookie reporter on The Morning Chronicle. Investigating the foggy slums of Ye Olde London Towne, he accidentally stumbles on a story that could make his reputation. Follow our hero on the adventure of a lifetime! The most absurd contribution to the Dickens bicentenary you could hope to see. adult £12, concs £10

Hawthorne Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

Nick The Handyman All aspects of Property Maintenance ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

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

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

and Dishwashers ● Repair Leaking Pipes ● Outside Taps

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

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

the latest fitness craze HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) is proving to be the latest fitness craze, although there are enough studies around to suggest that it should be more than a fad! With HIIT emerging as the must try fitness trend for 2013, the new GRAVITY HIIT classes being held at Westminster Lodge, offer time saving and health benefits, plus the long, lean toning benefits of a full body resistance workout. Performed on the remarkable Total Gym equipment, which resembles a Pilates Reformer crossed with a cable machine, the workout can burn up to 500 calories in half an hour. Using your own bodyweight as resistance you can target every single muscle in the body by simply changing your position, so moves can be linked together to create a seamless workout that guarantees to hit the right intensity level for you. The angle of the glideboard is varied to change the percentage of your bodyweight that you lift for each move, so everyone can join in the same class with difficulty suited perfectly to any fitness level. Plus there are no heavy weights to worry about. Richard Callender from ITV’s The Biggest Loser loves the kit, saying: ‘The Total Gym is a superb piece of equipment mainly because of its ability to affect so many different muscle groups simultaneously. I’ve used this equipment successfully with clients on the Biggest Loser and ensured my new personal training studio has them too because they work.’ The programme is made up of 30 second intervals repeated eight times per round, with each round using four different exercises to target a single muscle group. For more information visit www.everyoneactive.com

enrol now visit all entry fee and sponsoring money goes to Marie Curie Cancer log on select Westminster Lodge Pool and register!

Care

local walks Join the local Health Walks organised by the Countryside Management Service, and led by trained volunteers. They take place whatever the weather, cater to all ages and abilities and are a great way to get active, have a natter and improve general wellbeing. Best of all they are completely free! Highfield Park Mondays 9.30am and Tuesdays 1.30pm Meet in the car park for Charters Health Club, Hill End Lane, opposite Spar. If you are just starting out there is a first steps walk here on Tuesdays and also a 2-3 mile brisk walk. Greenwood Park Fridays 2pm. Meet outside Greenwood Park Community Centre, Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green Heartwood Forest Saturday 2nd March & 6th April 2pm Meet in the Heartwood Forest car park, St Albans Road, Sandridge for a 4-5 mile brisk walk. Bricket Wood Sunday 17th March 10.30am Meet at Moor Mill Pub, off Smug Oak Lane for a 4-5 mile brisk walk. Verulamium Park Wednesday 3rd April 7pm Meet outside Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre for a gentle 3 miles walk with some hills. Hatching Green Tuesdays 10.30am Meet at the White Horse pub, Redbourn Lane, Harpenden. Two walks, a 1st steps walk for those just starting out and a longer 1-2 hour brisk walk. Wheathampstead Thursdays 10.30am Meet at the public car park behind The Bull, East Lane, Wheathampstead. A moderate 2-3 mile walk. For more information and other walks in surrounding areas visit www.hertslink.org/cms/healthwalks or call CMS on 01462 459395

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

what really happens at a Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Class?

Fitness class truly different is the exercise session! This is a 45 minute workout adapted to all individuals, whatever their age, size and ability. So whether you have never done aerobics or have been doing it for years, you will certainly enjoy and benefit from the workout. This has been the case for one of Sandra’s class members Mandy Smith, who has really seen the benefit of the exercise sessions. For many years Mandy had a gym membership (which she did use) but decided last year not to renew it and instead upgraded her Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Club membership to Premier Plus. Mandy can now attend as many classes as she wants and it was cheaper than the gym membership!

For many joining a slimming club is a daunting prospect and actually what does happen when you get there? At a Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness class you are always guaranteed a warm Since then Mandy hasn’t looked back! ”I started welcome both from the highly qualified instructors doing a couple of extra classes each week but as and other class members. I began to notice a real difference I went to a few more and now I plan my diary and make the time You’ll be asked to complete a health related to go to most of the classes. I am amazed at the questionnaire, with the local Instructor, Sandra Harnett (pictured), before being asked to step on improvement in my fitness and I have consistently lost weight ever since and the inch to the scales. She will also take you through the loss has been noticed by all my friends and diet pack demonstrating how easy it is follow. family. Plus my overall energy level throughout Sandra, has herself lost 7 stones at Rosemary the day is so much better too, which really helps Conley classes, and it’s with this personal on those particularly stressful or busy days”. experience that she can help and support For many members the class is their ’me time’ you through your journey. away from stressful and busy days, allowing Once all members have been weighed, Sandra them to focus on their health and fitness, learning will read out the successful weight losses, how to make lifestyle changes, improve their congratulating members who have reached fitness while making new friends too. specific goals plus award the Slimmer of the At every class you will find a friendly atmosphere Week certificate. This will be followed by a short and invaluable support, so why not find out for talk on a topic relating to motivation, nutrition or yourself and take the first step to a healthier you! exercise. However, what makes a Rosemary Conley Diet & Call Sandra on 01707 372559

On Sunday 10th March Soroptimist International St Albans & District invite you to join ‘women on the bridge’ in Verulamium Park to mark International Women’s Day on Mothers Day.

Wear White Stand for Peace and an end to Violence Against Women 10.30am meet by the boating lake - Don’t forget to wear white! 11am photo and presentation on the bridge over the boating lake To find out more and register your interest please contact Jane Slatter on 07834 345796 or sistalbans@hotmail.com or visit www.sigbi.org/st-albans

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

what’s on in march 40

Now - 28th April RSPB Bird Watching Verulamium Park see page 16 2nd Sacré Bleu! see page 22 3rd Luxury Wedding Show see page 2 Aesop’s Fables see page 10 4th - 9th 9 to 5 The Musical Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 871 7652, £15 - £35, 7.30pm 7th World Book Day see page 3 8th - 10th The St Albans Film Festival see page 4 9th Quiz Night see page 6 Village Voices Spring Concert see page 28 Film: The Sheik St Albans Organ Theatre, Camp Road, St Albans, 03003 656565, silent film night presents Rudolph Valentino & Agnes Ayres in this 1921 classic film of love & drama accompanied by Donald MacKenzie on the Wurlitzer, 8pm, adult £10, child free 9th & 10th Shaw’s Corner Book Sale see page 10 10th Mother’s Day Decorative Lettering The Paper Trail, Apsley, Hemel Hempstead, 01442 234600, 11 - 2pm, £5 Dunstable Downs Trail Runs see page 26 13th & 27th Walks: Ghosts & Ghouls led by St Albans Tour Guides, meet at the Tourist Information Centre, The Old Town Hall, 8pm www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk 16th Gloria Baroque Masterpieces Hardynge Choir, High Street Methodist Church, 0845 475 1664, 7.30pm, adult £12, child £6 Heartwood Forest Tree Planting Sandridge, St Albans, 0800 026 9650, 10 - 3pm War and Peace St Nicholas Church, Harpenden, 01582 793845, Chamber Choir concert by Lea Singers & The Solis Ensemble, 7.30pm, adult £13, child £5 Mozart Coronation Mass see page 22 16th - 24th St Albans MusicCity a week of celebration of all genres of music, 01727 819203, see page 12

17th Lanwarne Landscapes at Burston page 33 18th - 22nd: 7.30pm 23rd: 3pm Carmen see page 18 23rd 18th - 23rdInternational Organ Festival St Albans Copacabana page 44 Church, Sandpit Organ Recital see St Saviour's Lane, given by Matthew Martin, Lennyrecital Henry in Fences Organist, the London Oratory, includes Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 871 7652,works by Byrd, J S Bach, 5.30pm £10 - £33.50, 7.30pm 20th Meeting: St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society St Mary's Church, Childwick Green, visitors welcome, 8pm, 01582 762284 21st Bach Matthew Passion see page 45 Meet The Manor St Michael’s Manor Hotel, Fishpool Street, St Albans, Wine Tasting & Canapes, please book, 01727 864444, 6 - 8pm 22nd & 23rd Luton Hoo Walled Garden Open Art Exhibition see page 12 23rd Harpenden Art, Craft & Antiques Fayre Methodist Church Hall, 10 - 4pm, 50p St Albans International Organ Festival Organ Recital St Saviour's Church, Sandpit Lane, St Albans, recital given by Matthew Martin, Organist, the London Oratory, includes works by Byrd & J S Bach, 5.30pm 23rd, 24th, 29th, 30th, 31st March and 1st April Easter Egghead Hunt Dunstable Downs, see page 14 24th Spring Fayre Frogmore Paper Mill, Hemel Hempstead, 01442 234600, 11- 4pm Steaming Open Day Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, 01296 655720, ride in a full size steam engine, adult £10, child £7 25th Talk: Juliana Wakefied - medical historian Herbs for Women's Health St Albans & District Soroptimists, 7.45pm, Greenwood Park Community Centre, Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green, 07944 725226 29th Easter at Ashridge see page 14 31st Easter Egg Hunt Inn on the Park, see page 14 31st March & 1st April Stockwood Country Fair Stockwood Discovery Centre, 01582 548600, 11 - 4.30pm, adult £3.50, child £2.50

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

what’s on in april 42

2nd - 5th Holiday Theatre Workshops ages 3-12 Sophia's Street Dance ages 7+ The Hurst Children's Theatre Group www.hurstchildrenstheatregroup.co.uk 07568 363104 2nd - 14th Easter Fun Stockwood Discovery Centre, 01582 548600, various times throughout the week www.lutonculture.com 4th Suggs My Life Story The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 7.30pm, £24.50 13th Peacock & Gamble: Don’t Even Want to be on Telly Anyway Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, a live show of fun, idiocy & handsomeness, 8pm, adult £10 Charity Quiz Night St Albans & District Soroptimists, Homewood Road Church Hall, St Albans, 07944 725226, fish & chip supper, 7.15pm, £12.50 adults, child £6 16th Tuesday Trail: Flora & Fauna Stockwood Discovery Centre, 01582 548600, 10 - 10.30am / 11 - 11.30am, outdoor trails for toddlers, £1.50 17th Meeting: Display: ‘Fiji’ St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society, St Mary's Church, Childwick Green, visitors welcome, 8pm, 01582 762284 18th - 27th A Number Abbey Theatre, 01727 857861, from one of the UK’s most successful modern playwrights, raising issues such as the meaning of identity & the conflict between nature & nurture being just two of them, a moving, thought-provoking theatrical experience, 8pm

20th The St Albans & District Family Fair The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 11 - 5pm, free From the Jam see opposite page 21st Open Day Verulam Golf Club, see page 24 The Elephants Bridesmaid Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, a magical musical about the loveliest elephant in the world, 2.30pm, adult £8.50, child £6.50 Family Fun Day Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, 01296 655720, adult £12, child £9 Hertfordshire Wedding Fair The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 11 - 4pm, free 23rd Community Book Fair see page 26 Joan Collins: One Night with Joan The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 7.45pm, £30 - £35 26th - 28th Swimathon see page 36 27th The Great Curry Run in aid of ABF The Soldiers Charity, organised by St Georges School, 9am start www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk Boogie Nights The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 7pm - midnight, £28.50 Dambusters Ball Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 7.30pm, £45 Auction / Bric Brac & Book Sale Wadley Scout Hut, Watford Road, St Albans, bric-a-brac: 10am, auction viewing:12 noon, sale: 1pm 28th Lanwarne Landscapes at Burston see page 33

From Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road and the celebrity island of Mustique, high profile hairdresser Emma Boucher is now available for appointments. Specialising in cutting and colour work, and bridal hair all enjoyed in the comfort of your home.

Emma 07539 228 331 emmaboucher99@hotmail.com

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

creature comforts

‘Hang spring –cleaning!’ cries Mole in Kenneth Grahame’s ‘The Wind in the Willows.’ The animals are emerging from hibernation, and so are we. We’ve picked a selection of the best books where the animals call the shots so what better way to welcome in the warmer weather, than with some tales from the riverbank… and beyond?

War Horse

Watership Down

Charlotte’s Web

Michael Morpurgo

Richard Adams

E.B. White

Based on the true story of a horse named ‘Warrior’, War Horse follows the tale of Joey, a young mount who is sold to the cavalry for service in the First World War and the attempts of his previous owner Albert to bring him home safely. It’s an amazing story of bravery and friendship, set against the bloodiest of backdrops and you can’t help but gallop alongside the intrepid pair.

Fiver can sense impending doom. Something very bad is coming to the rabbit warren and fleeing is the only way to save the clan. He and his brother Hazel embark on the journey of a lifetime to find sanctuary at Watership Down. Crammed full of amazing rabbit folklore, myths, legends and even their own language of ‘Lapine’, we become immersed in Fiver and Hazel’s world, carried along on this amazing and perilous journey across southern England.

Bashful and whimsical Wilbur the Pig is horrified to learn that he’s facing the chop. His human protector, Fern, might not be able to save him all on her own and it looks like it’s up to the barn’s resident spider to save his bacon. Can Charlotte convince the farmer that Wilbur really is worth hanging on to? Ok, so the clue is in the title but this is a thoroughly charming tale that will have you laying off the sausages, and letting the cobwebs hang around a bit longer, well after you’ve put the book down.

White Fang Jack London

Set in Canada during the gold rush at the end of the 1800’s, White Fang is the story of a half dog, half wolf hybrid puppy and his attempts to find his place in the world. It’s an epic story of survival, with White Fang struggling against the violent backdrop of the Yukon Territory before he’s adopted and attempts to live as a domesticated canine. White Fang’s new life is just as brutal, as he fails to be accepted by other dogs and so reverts to being the ‘lone wolf’, detached and isolated in the frozen wastelands.

Animal Farm George Orwell

Originally subtitled ‘A Fairy Story’, this was Orwell’s allegory for events leading up to the Russian Revolution. Rebellion is in the air at Manor Farm when the drunken layabout of a farmer, Mr Jones, forgets to feed his animals. Pigs Napoleon and Snowball lead the revolt and bring power to all those on four legs. But in time, the uprising takes an unexpected downturn. Remember: ‘All animals are equal. But some animals are more equal than other.

The Art of Racing in the Rain Garth Stein

Another dog has his day, this time it’s Enzo who wants to be reincarnated as a human. Enzo already feels human - he watches TV and listens carefully to everything his master tells him. Through watching and listening, Enzo has gleaned that his human family is in trouble and he must do everything in his power to fix them. ‘Heartwarming’ doesn’t come close.

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com

index of businesses

Accountants Ann Coleman TaxAssist Accountants Aerial Installations Concorde Aerials

13 13 7

Education Love Language

Electricians Alban Electrical Services I & B Electrical MLC Electrical

Appliance Repairs / Sales Appliance Refrigeration Leigh Hibon

29 29

Fancy Dress & Dance Wear FunZone

Art & Picture Framing Bloom

Beauty Skin & Tonic

Flooring Creative Wood Flooring LP Flooring

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

Business For Sale Extra-Help

Cabinet Makers Sequoia Bespoke

Carpentry & Joinery Chris Smyth

Computer Tuition Computer Friendly Counselling / Sex Therapy Michael Stock

life’s a puzzle!

Dance Classes Penny Waterman School of Dance

3 11 11

Garden Centre Burston Garden Centre

Gardening / Landscaping Garden Life Landscapes Glorious Gardens Justin Leon Lanwarne Landscapes

31 31 31 33

Gas K25

Children’s Development Classes Gymboree Play & Music 5 Cleaning Big Yellow Cleaning Company Daily Poppins Domestique Linda & Karen Cleaning Services Mobile Maid Services Molly Maid Murray’s Cleaning Services

9 7 9

17 15 16 15 16 15 17 6 45

Glassware Repairs Chipped Glassware

Golf Club Verulam Golf Club

Hairdressers Emma Boucher Phoenix Hairdressing

43 43

Health & Fitness Health Performance Centre Intelligent Pilates Classes Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Classes Hearing Services The Hearing Healthcare Practice Insurance NFU Mutual

41 41 39

Interior Furnishers Drapemasters Sew Far Sew Good

21 20

Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorating

19 19

Plasterer A. Merson Plastering

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

35 & 47

Pond Maintenance Women With Waders

Printer PrintShop St Albans

Property Maintenance Mr Handyman Nick The Handyman

37 35

Rubbish Clearance Clear A Waste.co.uk

Security Maximum Security Systems Shutters The Harpenden Shutter Company

Tiling Cedar Ceramics

Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Services.co.uk

TV Repairs JB TV Services

Wedding Show Luxury Wedding Show

back cover

general knowledge crossword across: 1 Myth, 3 Bouffant, 9 Nirvana, 10 Yards, 11 Easter Sunday, 14 Ifs, 16 Icons, 17 Eke, 18 Haute couture, 21 Mufti, 22 Treadle, 23 Sweet pea, 24 Army down: 1 Mince pie, 2 Terms, 4 Ova, 5 Flying saucer, 6 Acreage, 7 Toss, 8 Lake District, 12 Stoic, 13 Cemetery, 15 Snaffle, 19 Udder, 20 Amos, 22 Tee

word ladder one possible solution

GOLD gild gilt gist gust DUST

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

DJ&M PLUMBING SERVICES LTD ●

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Complete Bathroom, Cloakroom and Shower Installations

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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

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588291 or jane@stalbansnow.com