17 minute read
MAYOR OF HERTFORD
PHOTO: SCOTT GARROD - BLACK KITE PRODUCTIONS
Q Were you into politics from an early age?
A Not formally. I did not think of my interest as ‘politics’, but always had an interest in the community around me.
Q Before becoming Mayor of Hertford, where has your political journey taken you?
A My interest in the community led me to become a magistrate. My experiences of the justice system and my personal life helped me formalise my interest in helping the community and that developed into politics. So, in 2019 I stood successfully as a local councillor in the Kingsmead Ward of Hertford.
Q How did it feel to be elected Mayor of Hertford back in May?
A I was very honoured. It is a role which has many traditions and ceremony that are part of the history of Hertford, so it has been amazing to become part of that history. Yet I also believe passionately in the community of Hertford, and it has given me an opportunity to thank so many people who make our Hertford community so special.
Q How has it been in the time since then?
A It has been extremely busy. As Mayor I have been able to attend many functions – many of them celebrating the service and commitment of individuals who have been a crucial part of Hertford life – its interests, businesses, and charities. It has been a real pleasure with so much positive inspiration. The Queen’s Jubilee was a highlight with the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss, The High Sheri of Hertfordshire Mrs Sally Burton, Lord Salisbury of Hatfi eld House and Chairman of Hertfordshire County Council Mrs Annie Brewster, in attendance, just to name a few, to celebrate the Beacon Lighting at Hertford Castle. Obviously, this was followed by the Remembrance Service for our late Queen Elizabeth II and the Proclamation of our new King, Charles III. It has been a period of great change.
Get to know… Cllr SUSAN BARBER
MADAM MAYOR OF HERTFORD
BEING INVOLVED IN THE QUEEN'S PLATINUM JUBILEE WAS A HIGHLIGHT
Q What do you hope to achieve in the position?
A My aim as Mayor was to not only fulfil the traditional role as representative of Hertford, but also to try to be part of the healing process for our community. The previous years of Covid lockdowns left a fragmented community and many people felt so isolated. I hope to encourage people to join together and to reconnect with Hertford, its people and all of the activities and services on o er. The Mayor hosts a Vintage Tea Party at the Castle for the over 75s living in the community. This is done with the help of all the sta and o cers that work at the Castle, friends of Hertford Castle, Fellow Councillors and local businesses.
Q Tell us about your chosen charities…
A My chosen charities are HDOS – Hertford Dramatic Operatic Society – and Future Hope. Both of these charities provide interest and support to people in Hertford. HDOS spans so many age groups. It encourages people to step into another world either on stage or o gaining new skills and confidence whilst providing great entertainment for all in Hertford. Future Hope provides vital support to our local young people aged 11-19, helping empower them to see positive futures and reach their full potential. I believe it is essential that our young people get the support to help them develop into the amazing adults they can be.
Q You have lived in Hertford for over four decades. What do you love about it?
A I love so many things about Hertford. The countryside walks over the Kingsmead with our two West Highland Terrier dogs
A CGI OF HOW THE REGENERATED HERTFORD THEATRE WILL LOOK
and public footpaths are a great contrast to the hub of town life. The people are friendly and supportive and although I came here as an adult it feels like home. The town is in a period of regeneration, and I am excited to see the benefits of this with the new shopping area in the newly named Lea Wharf and the new Hertford Theatre, which will become a thriving hub for arts and culture. Hertford is a flourishing place with so much to do and I try to get involved in as much as possible. Hertford has the second biggest night-time economy in Hertfordshire with restaurants, pubs clubs and music venues.
Q Where are your three favourite places in the area, or further afield in Hertfordshire?
A I think my first area are the town's green spaces: Hartham Common, Kingsmead, Cole Green Way and Panshanger Park on the outskirts of Hertford. It’s full of happy positive emotions of walking and having some quiet time, playing with my children when they were younger, and all this adds to a sense of optimism. Another favourite place is Hatfield House – it’s a great historic home and we are fortunate to have Lord Salisbury who is really interested in the Hertfordshire community. I am really looking forward to the Christmas Lights event there. I think my third favourite place is the theatre. Although ours is under construction, I have previously been a strong supporter of all events there. I am so looking forward to its completion with the new theatre and cinemas – it’s a place of fun and entertainment, which I love.
Q Outside of politics, what do you love to spend your time doing?
A I am a family person at heart, and I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy socialising whether out for a meal in one of our great local restaurants or wine tasting or quizzes. Dogs have always been a key part of my life since childhood and love you unreservedly. I love going to London sightseeing and we are lucky to be so close with two main line stations. I enjoy ballroom dancing and going to the gym as well as Pilates classes. I honestly love being busy and fill my life with as much as possible.
Find out more about the Mayor of Hertford at
hertford.gov.uk/the-mayor-of-hertford
THE HISTORIC HATFIELD HOUSE
JOINING FORCES
Safe savings and a ordable loans with Hertsavers Credit Union
The cost of living has been rising since December 2021 where inflation hit a high of 5.4% in 30 years. There has never been a better time to plan for your financial future than now. A way that you can start planning is by becoming a member of Hertsavers Credit Union.
What is a credit union?
Credit unions are not-for-profit friendly societies that are owned and operated by their members for the benefit of their members. According to the CEO of the Association of British Credit Unions (Abcul), “Credit unions are building financial resilience in households and communities all across the country and helping consumers manage their finances in a hugely positive way.”
Who is Hertsavers Credit Union?
Hertsavers Credit Union serves anyone who lives or works in Hertfordshire. Hertsavers is owned and controlled by members, so any surplus made goes back to their members as dividends.
Hertsavers membership is going from strength to strength and has seen a significant increase in member loans. Hertsavers provide a wide range of a ordable loans with low-interest rates and a haven for savings. Like all credit unions, they are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) that protects savings of up to the value of £85,000. Therefore, you can be reassured that your money is safe.
They also o er a Salary Saving Scheme where members can automatically save through their payroll. You can see their partner employers through the Hertsavers’ website. Employers or organisations that want to operate a payroll/salary savings scheme should email them at o ce@hertsavers.co.uk.
Who runs Hertsavers?
Hertsavers is governed by a Board of volunteer Directors elected at an Annual General Meeting. They all either live or work in Hertfordshire. They develop their business plan and oversee financial progress and are responsible for the sta that interface with members.
If you are interested in joining the Board of Directors, contact them at o ce@hertsavers.co.uk. Hertsavers will provide training and support so that you have a better understanding of how credit unions run.
IT'S A TIME WHEN WE ARE ALL COUNTING THE COST
Here’s what their members have to say:
“I was able to save for the first time, I am no more worried about high interest rates on loans compared to loans taken out in the past from other lenders. It has reduced money worries overall.”
“Hertsavers provide a positive impact on the society compared to high street banks.”
HERTSAVERS CREDIT UNION
To find out more about Hertsavers Credit Union, call 020 8756 3868 or visit hertsavers.co.uk
HertSavers Credit Union Ltd is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudental Regulation Authority. Reg. No. 213747
Christmas
S P E C I A L
Time to
SPARKLE
CHRISTMAS MARKETS We want to get into the spirit early here at Absolutely Hertfordshire, so welcome to our mini section of the best places in the county to get festive in November.
Action from every angle.
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Beolab 28 Beosound Theatre
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Bang and Olufsen of Ealing
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It's a WRAP
Christmas seems to start earlier every year. Here are a host of reasons to get into the festive spirit in November
LIGHT SHOW
The county always comes up trumps when attentions turn to the o cial switch on of the Christmas lights. The Mayor of Hertford, who we chatted to earlier in this issue, also discussed the area's event. “I am really looking forward to switching on the Christmas Lights this year on 25 November – it’s a real honour and such a fun time,” she says. “The Hertford Christmas Gala and Christmas Market runs for the three days over that weekend, and I love the warmth and fun of the festive period. I also hope to spend time at church, especially St Andrews Church where Alan Stewart, the Mayor’s Chaplain, will be giving guidance and wisdom about the meaning of Christmas. I am looking forward to so much of what Hertford has to o er this Christmas – I hope that many people come to the area to join us.”
There are far too many other events for us to cover here, but at a glance 19 November sees the lights being switched on at Hitchin Market Place; the Annual London Colney Christmas Light Switch On & Christmas Market will be held on Sunday 4 December 2022, where you can join the community on the High Street for a festive celebration with carol singing, mulled wine, food, dance displays, a Christmas market and more; and Stevenage Town Centre have announced their annual Christmas Light Switch On will return this year on Thursday 24 November.
IT’S IN FRONT OF YOU
Of course, Christmas isn’t Christmas without a family visit to the local panto – and there are some crackers to look forward to this year. On 25 November, Cinderella opens at the Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, and promises to o er an intriguing twist to the age-old story.
HERTS IS FULL OF CHRISTMAS MARKETS
EXPECT LOTS OF LIGHTS
The Sandpit Theatre have announced their panto, Hansel & Gretel,which will be on at The Ridgeway, St Albans, from 17 December. A fun-filled, sugar-fuelled, familyfriendly pantomime adventure that reminds us all not to take candy from strangers (even if they wow you with a fabulous song and dance number!). Join ‘Hansel and Gretel’ in a new take on an old favourite, with tasty tunes, magical mayhem and colourful characters (including a seven foot yeti).
At the Radlett Centre from 10 December, Upstage Productions presents Jack and THE BEANSTALK COMES TO HERTS
THERE'S PLENTY OF GIFT INSPIRATION
the Beanstalk as their 2022 traditional family pantomime. They promise dazzling choreography, stunning sets, uplifting live music, glamourous costumes and, of course, plenty of audience participation. Follow Jack as he climbs miles high, defeats a giant and makes some new “golden” friends.
Then, from 9 December, Wyllyotts Theatre in association with Jordan Productions presents Dick Whittington and his Cat. From the streets of London to a spectacular voyage over the seven seas to Morocco, join Dick Whittington, his acrobatic cat and a cast of crazy characters on the adventure of a lifetime.
ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR
Worrying already about what to buy your great aunt? Want to uncover something unique for your festive home this year? There are some top events opening in November that will throw up a whole host of inspiration. Take, for example, the
Harpenden Farmers’ Market and Christmas
Carnival on 27 November, which will include the fantastic monthly Farmers’ Market o erings, Santa's Grotto and much more.
A host of local artisans will be taking part in the Childwickbury Christmas Fair near Harpenden and St Albans from 26-27 November. The two-day event will feature lots of independent businesses, artists, food and much more. Perfect for all the family (and dogs are welcome too).
Clearly the weekend for it all to happen, also on 27 November is the Redbourn Christmas Market. Head along and shop local for Christmas, supporting local businesses and artists at this festive, not-for-profit event. The people behind this fabulous event are all volunteers and all funds raised are used to put into running the event and pay for the Christmas light display.
Timefor CHEER
Silent Pool are well-known for their gin, but it’s their Christmas range that is getting us talking
CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL? DON'T MIND IF WE DO
With the festive months soon upon us, Silent Pool has a range of gifts for all budgets. Whether it is Silent Pool’s Gin Copa Glass Gift Box for the one you love, serving a pre-dinner drink using their Luxury Gift Tin or gifting the ultimate secret Santa gift, the Citrus Gin G&T Pack – there’s something to suit all occasions. We take a closer look at the options…
G&T / RARE CITRUS G&T PACK
The perfect stocking filler. This gift pack contains a Silent Pool Gin/Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin Copa Glass, a miniature Silent Pool Gin/Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin and a Fever Tree Indian Tonic Can to serve up the perfect double Silent Pool Gin & Tonic.
Silent Pool Gin G&T Pack / Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin G&T Pack is available for RRP £15.
THE CHRISTMAS CANDLES SET SILENT POOL'S CHRISTMAS GIFT SET
UPCYCLED BOTANICAL CANDLES
Scented candles each inspired by botanicals found in Silent Pool’s gin. Housed in used Silent Pool Gin bottles as a part of their upcycling scheme, which gives the gorgeous bottles a second time to shine. Filled with 100% natural essential oils and environmentally friendly soy wax. The best way to decorate your Christmas dinner table.
Available in four scents: Rose, Elderflower & Honey; Bergamot & LavenderJuniper & Cassia Bark; Orange, Mandarin & Bergamot. Silent Pool Gin Upcycled Botanical Candles are available for RRP £24 from Silent Pool Distillers.
SILENT POOL GIN LUXURY GIFT TIN
Luxury handcrafted gin made from 24 botanicals with the aim of capturing the essence of the Surrey Hills. A contemporary London Dry gin with floral top notes, perfectly served in a G&T with Indian tonic, garnished with an orange slice.
Silent Pool Gin Luxury Gift Tin is available for RRP £40 from Silent Pool Distillers.
GIN & COPA GLASS GIFT BOX
A remarkable gift box that includes a bottle of Silent Pool Gin with a pair of premium Silent Pool Gin Copa Glasses. A great gift for your G&T fan.
Available in the classic Silent Pool taste or citrus-infused. Silent Pool Gin & Copa Glass Gift Box is available for RRP £68 through Silent Pool Distillers.
DARTINGTON CRYSTAL 8 LITRE WITH 8 CRYSTAL GLASSES IN LEATHER DISPLAY CASE
Silent Pool Gin and Dartington Crystal have collaborated to create an eight-litre one-of-a-kind Dartington Crystal bottle of gin and glassware. It is the world’s most exclusive gin in a crystal bottle and glass set.
The hand-blown, bespoke Dartington Crystal bottle and the eight glasses that go with it took master craftsmen more than 80 hours to etch by hand. The leather case for the bottle and glasses was designed and built by luxury trunk makers Franck Tressens of Ephtee. Available for RRP £25,000 at Silent Pool Distillers.
Find out more about all at silentpooldistillers.com
DRINK & FOOD
UNIQUE TASTE
RARE CHAMPAGNE
Newly released Rare Rosé Millésime 2012 expertly balances three distinct families of sensations: floral, fruity, and spiced. Combining aromas and freshness, this third vintage rosé from Rare Champagne adds a new dimension to the Maison’s style. Inside we have some recipe pairings to make the most of this launch. rare-champagne.com
