Axis magazine February 2023 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally

February 2023

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE

IN THE NEWS...

Lister Hospital maternity unit is rated ‘inadequate’

DAY THE MUSIC DIED

Hertford’s Musical Mystery Tour is cancelled

NEW YEAR NEW HOME

New property for sale in Hertford and Cheshunt

THINGS TO DO

Enjoy musical theatre, films and snowdrop events

THE MAGIC OF SICILY Limone, a refreshing addition to dining out in Hoddesdon

• Offering the highest standards of personalised care

• Long term living and short stay breaks that support care needs

• 24 hour residential care for individuals and couples

• Superb levels of dedicated professional staff committed to placing your needs first

WELCOME

What’s inside this issue

Hospital news; MMT cancelled and levelling up funds to boost towns

Plan your free time with our guide to the best events, arts and new films

Find out

ABOUT AXIS

Axis magazine was founded in 2003 by two award-winning former local newspaper editors who still own and run the business today.

We are the independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters in and around eastern Hertfordshire and we aim to provide a concise, useful guide to local life.

Our editorial content is targeted towards readers’ interests, to maximise readership and gain the best exposure for our advertisers. The magazine is delivered to homes and businesses in selected areas and copies can also be picked up free from venues across the area.

CONTACT US

Axis Magazine, Lyric House, 6b St Andrew St, Hertford SG14 1JA 01992 500198

info@axispublications.co.uk axismagazine.co.uk

PUBLISHERS:

Aaron Gransby & Justine Woods

DIGITAL EDITION:

Read us online at axismagazine.co.uk or issuu.com (search axis magazine)

SUBSCRIBE

For just £30 per year we’ll send you your own copy of Axis by post upon publication each month.

Call us on 01992 500198 with card details to start a subscription or send a cheque made payable to Axis Publications Ltd to the address in the Contact Us section above.

ADVERTISE

Here at Axis we look to build long-lasting relationships with local businesses that understand the benefits of advertising to an affluent and intelligent audience on a regular, ongoing basis.

To find out more about promoting your business with us please call 01992 500198

05-13 y Briefing

21-23 y What’s on

14-16 y Property news

View Hertford’s Granary & Chapel and The Quadra Apartments in Cheshunt

24-27 y Food & drink

about Limone Sicilian kitchen in Hoddesdon

Front cover images (clockwise from top)

Limone Sicilian kitchen in Hoddesdon (p25); The Quadra Apartments in Cheshunt (p16); New film Epic Tails (p23); Artwork by Liz Boast showing at The Gallery at Parndon Mill later this month (p23); An original tile from the House of Commons presented to Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall by Julie Marson MP (p10); Hertford Musical Mystery Tour (p6, picture by Steve Beeston).

19 y SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS: Aqua-Tox opens in Hertford

26-27 y DINING OUT GUIDE: Find your Valentine’s restaurant

Recruiting now for foster carers in Hertfordshire

We love our busy home. It’s good fun”

Could you make a big difference to a child’s life?

There are approximately 1,000 children and young people in care in Hertfordshire and many of these children need the love and support of a foster family.

If you are aged over 21, have a spare room at home, and space in your heart, then fostering could be for you.

When you choose to foster with us, you’ll receive generous pay and allowances for each child, exceptional training and 24/7 local support right from the very start.

Get in touch with our friendly team today and we’ll help you decide if fostering is right for you.

CONTACT US:

To find out more about fostering, please call our team on 0800 917 0925 for an informal chat or email us on fostering.recruitment@hertfordshire.gov.uk

Dawn and Alan, Hertfordshire foster carers

BRIEFING

Lister maternity unit rated ‘inadequate’ in latest CQC report

The maternity unit at Lister Hospital in Stevenage, which serves much of East Herts, has been rated ‘inadequate’ by the Care Quality Commission.

The CQC inspected the unit in October last year, focusing on two of the five areas it has the power to inspect – whether the service is Safe and Well-led.

Its report, which was published in January, rated both areas as ‘inadequate’, downgrading the unit overall from its previous rating of ‘good’.

The other three areas – whether the service is Caring, Effective and Responsive – were last inspected in July 2018 when they were rated as being ‘good’.

While the report praised some aspects of the unit’s work, it concluded overall that care there ‘falls short of what women should be able to expect’.

The CQC has issued a warning notice to the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, which runs Lister Hospital, which means it is legally required to make improvements.

Air ambulance crews begin first night flights

Helicopter teams at Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust can now fly at night after completing special training, and carried out their landmark first helicopter night mission in January.

In the past, the charity, which delivers a 24-hour pre-hospital care service to patients across the two counties, has only been able to attend night time emergencies using on the ground rapid response vehicles. But night flying has been an aim of the charity, as it enables it to attend incidents more rapidly. The crew have now completed training on a Night Vision Imaging System which, via the use of special

Among their findings, inspectors noted that ‘the service did not have enough staff to care for women and keep them safe’ and that, although training was provided to all staff, ‘steps were not taken to ensure everyone completed it’. They also said that staff ‘did not always follow best practice to protect women, themselves and others from infection’.

They found that some equipment was out of date, not checked regularly enough and was sometimes dirty, adding that steps must be taken to ensure more regular servicing and cleaning. However, the report did find that staff worked well together for the benefit of women and that there was ‘a strong culture for improvement, research and innovation’.

Trust chief executive Adam SewellJones said: “Our maternity team work incredibly hard and keep the interests of parents-to-be central to everything they do. I want to reassure you that our hospital remains a safe place to give birth. However, we take this report very seriously and our new director

The entrance to the maternity unit at Lister Hospital in Stevenage of midwifery has already led immediate and thorough action to increase cleanliness, and to ensure that our equipment is up to the required standard. We have a detailed improvement plan to address remaining issues and will report openly on our progress.

“We recognise the national shortage of midwives, however our

Fire and rescue service improves its performance

staffing levels are in line with other maternity units in the east of England and since the inspection we have recruited 17 more midwives.”

The hospital’s overall rating by the CQC has not changed, it is rated ‘requires improvement’.

You can read the full CQC report at cqc.org.uk.

night vision goggles calibrated to the visual needs of each individual, enhances the available light and allows pilots to see obstructions such as wires, pylons and buildings while flying in darkness and provides the pre-hospital care doctor and critical care paramedic with situational awareness during landing.

The first night use of the helicopter was to attend a road traffic accident in Southend on the evening of Saturday 14th January.

Hertfordshire’s Fire and Rescue Service has improved its performance according to a report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

The report has upgraded the service from ‘requires improvement’ to ‘good’ in two of the three areas it inspected last year. These three so-called ‘pillars’ were Effectiveness, Efficiency and People.

All three required improvement from the last report in 2018, whereas this time Effectiveness and People were rated ‘good’ although Efficiency was still marked as

‘requiring improvement’. Hertfordshire’s Chief Fire Officer Alex Woodman said: “I am extremely proud of the hard work, dedication and effort of our teams to strengthen the organisation and deliver improved services for our community.

“The recognition of this by His Majesty’s Inspector is welcomed by the entire service and affirms our resolve to focus further improvements on the areas of recommendation.”

Thank you for the music: Safety advice leads to cancellation of annual Musical Mystery Tour

Hertford’s Musical Mystery Tour –an annual live music event that has had the town rocking since 2006 – has taken place for the last time after organisers said safety advice they had received and the threat of them being held personally liable for any problems left them unable to continue.

Last year’s event, which was the first to have been held since the Covid lockdowns, saw thousands of people out and about in the town enjoying free musical performances from 180 artists across 35 venues from midday until the evening on the late August bank holiday Sunday.

MMT’s success over the years had led it to become one of Hertford’s most popular annual events.

But a debrief after the 2022 incarnation with Hertfordshire’s Safety Advisory Group, which is made up of representatives from East Herts Council and Hertfordshire Police, led to the MMT organisers saying they had no option but to end the festival because they would be unable to comply with safety advice given by the group.

A statement issued by the organisers, led by the man who began it all, Kev Saunders, said: “We’re sorry – but the MMT is over. This is a very sad moment for us.

“Our baby’s grown too big. MMT started with one person. There are still only five of us, with fulltime jobs, working hard to make Hertford happy. But that’s about 100 too few to achieve what’s now

being asked of us by the powers that be.

“The Safety Advisory Group has given us a long and onerous to-do list. Compliance isn’t exactly mandatory. But for us it is impossible. Which means we’ll be held personally responsible and liable for anything and everything. In short, we just can’t do this anymore.”

East Herts Council and Hertfordshire Police issued a joint statement in response, explaining that the Safety Advisory Group’s ‘over-riding aim is to help event organisers take the necessary steps to ensure the public’s wellbeing,’ adding that it is then up to the event organisers to take on board the advice given. The statement continued: “The SAG is an advisory group. The

group does not have the powers to object to or cancel an event and it is up to the organisers to decide whether or not to hold an event in 2023.”

The news was met with an outpouring of disappointment on social media, MMT having proved hugely popular with venues, artists and music fans alike.

But there remains hope of some sort of musical event in Hertford on that August Sunday, with the MMT organisers’ statement teasing: “Don’t worry. We’re sure Hertford will still be rocking regardless on future August bank holiday Sundays…”

Axis understands individual venues are discussing organising their own live music events on the date.

Public urged to report potholes as weather takes its toll

Residents are being encouraged to report potholes on the road network so that they can be added to Hertfordshire County Council’s repair and maintenance programme.

The council maintains 3,200 miles of roads across the county and says in an average year it will fix more than 21,000 potholes.

But it says there has been a big increase in the number appearing recently as a result of snow and ice followed by cold and wet weather. The key reason potholes form is repeated fluctuations in road surface

temperature to below and above freezing.

The council’s highways team aim to make the most significant potholes safe within 24 hours, but the majority of potholes that are big enough to need rapid attention receive a permanent repair either within five days or 20 days, depending on factors like the size of the pothole and how busy the road is. Smaller, less urgent, potholes are repaired as part of planned road resurfacing.

You can report a pothole at hertfordshire.gov.uk/highwayfaults.

Public meeting called to discuss plans for Old River Lane site

A public meeting to discuss redevelopment plans for The Causeway car park and surrounding land and buildings in Bishop’s Stortford will take place on Sunday 19th February.

Organised by the cross-party Old River Lane Working Group, a coalition of Liberal Democrat, Labour and Green Party members, it will be held at 2.45pm at Bishop’s Stortford High School in London Road.

Working with developer Cityheart, East Herts Council wants to see the site redeveloped to create a cultural quarter for the town. The plans were originally based around a new arts centre building which was to be home to a new theatre. But rising costs forced a rethink and instead the proposed arts building is now planned to house a multi-screen cinema.

Cityheart has now submitted two planning applications relating to the site – one proposing the demolition of the United Reformed Church Hall and council offices Charringtons House to make way for its scheme.

The second seeks outline planning permission for the main development including the arts centre along with up to 225 new homes, shops and offices.

Charringtons House closure

Meanwhile, ahead of its planned handover to Cityheart in the autumn, East Herts Council is aiming to have vacated its Charringtons House offices as early as the end of March.

According to papers discussed at the council’s audit and governance committee meeting in January, this is because if it is not closed the council could potentially incur costs in pipework repairs and lift replacement, costs it would not expect to be able to recoup.

Crowds at last year’s MMT event in Hertford / Picture: Steve Beeston

The proposed arts centre

Harlow and Waltham Cross projects win money from Government’s Levelling Up Fund

Harlow and Waltham Cross are to receive funding for improvement projects from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

The fund supports infrastructure projects that seek to improve everyday life across the UK, including regenerating town centres and high streets, upgrading local transport and investing in cultural and heritage assets.

A total of 111 areas were awarded a share of £2.1billion from a second round of funding that was announced on 18th January.

Harlow Council is to receive £20million for a planned regeneration programme for the area around the Playhouse theatre and St Paul’s Church in the town centre while the Borough of Broxbourne will receive £14.3million towards its wider regeneration of Waltham Cross town centre.

Harlow

Harlow’s plans are to create an Arts and Cultural Quarter in the

town centre with a public square for events, outdoor performances, cinema and outdoor dining along with a ‘pocket park’ with natural play installations.

There will be upgrades to the existing Playhouse theatre along with the creation of a range of new facilities including a live music and performance venue with a music school and recording studio; artist and maker studio spaces; flexible studios for creative and performing arts and rehearsal space.

A new art gallery and associated spaces for literary arts, spoken word, education events and visiting exhibitions is also planned as well as the upgrading of the underpass beneath Haydens Road.

The derelict Occasio House, acquired by Harlow Council in December, is to be demolished and replaced with a new high quality residential development while the council’s purchase of the Harvey Centre means it could integrate part of that into its planned scheme.

Broxbourne

One of Broxbourne Council’s key priorities is to transform Waltham Cross town centre into a place where people want to live, visit and work.

As part of a comprehensive wider renaissance programme, there are three related and complementary projects which will be funded by the Levelling Up Fund award. Improvements to the public realm of the town centre are set to transform the heart of the town giving it a more modern look and feel and making it a more attractive place for new businesses to set up. The town centre community hub and skills training centre is to be enhanced, enabling more people to access skills training. Finally, there will be improvements to Waltham Cross playing fields with a new skate bowl, refurbishment of the sports pavilion and provision of new outdoor gym equipment to improve the health and wellbeing of the community.

New-look bus station at heart of more Harlow changes

Harlow Council’s wider regeneration plans for the town centre took a further step forward in January with the announcement that work will begin in the coming months on transforming the run-down Terminus Street area into a welcoming gateway to the town. It follows the council’s development management committee’s approval in January of plans for the £15million redevelopment of the town’s bus station and Terminus Street which will include a new

transport hub and interchange for buses, a cycle hub and dramatic improvements to the area’s public realm amenities and landscaping. The inclusion of green areas and a new events space are designed to help transform the overall character of the area and create a welcoming environment. Once completed, and in conjunction with other planned works in the town centre, the area is anticipated to become a key gateway to a regenerated town centre.

Quality Gold award for Ware Town Council

Ware Town Council has been awarded Quality Gold status in the National Association of Local Councils’ award scheme.

The scheme is designed to celebrate the success of the very best local councils and to provide a framework to support all local councils to improve and develop to meet their full potential.

Quality Gold is the highest level of accreditation, one which just 57 out of the 9,000 town and parish councils across the country have achieved. Ware Town Council is the only council in Hertfordshire with the award which recognises that it achieves good practice in governance, community engagement and council improvement and shows it goes above and beyond its legal obligations, leading the community and continuously seeking opportunities to improve and develop further.

From this May new rules mean that voters will need to show photo ID to vote in some elections and, with local council elections taking place on Thursday 4th May, you’re advised to check you have a suitable form of ID.

Accepted forms of ID include a passport or driver’s licence and some travel passes such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. You can still use your photo ID if it is out of date, as long as the picture still looks like you. If you don’t have one of the accepted forms of ID you can apply for a free voter ID document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate. The requirement to show photo ID at polling stations from 4th May applies to local elections and Police and Crime Commissioner elections.

From October 2023 it will also apply to UK General elections. You can find out more at electoralcommission.org.uk/ voterID.

These CGIs show proposals for the Playhouse Square area in Harlow and Waltham Cross town centre

Photo ID needed to vote in 2023 elections

Harlow’s planned new bus station

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Crematorium and memorial gardens created and managed by the Austin family in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside. www.crematorium.co.uk

We are tackling the issues that make a difference to people

The Prime Minister has announced his priorities for the year ahead – halving inflation, growing the economy, decreasing national debt and NHS waiting lists and stopping small boats that cross the channel illegally. Lots of these issues affect people across Hertford and Stortford and I know many will be relieved to see them addressed and tackled so head on.

The Minimum Service Levels Bill is a major legislative priority in Westminster right now. It will ensure that vital services, such as health, fire and rescue and transport services, maintain a basic level of function when workers strike. To be clear, this is not about stopping workers’ right to strike. That freedom must always remain protected. However, it does now need to be balanced with the public’s right to access the most critical and life-saving services. This is especially true for the most vulnerable in our community. The UK will also become the safest place to be online – the Online Safety Bill has now made its way

through Parliament. Children’s safety in particular has been its huge focus. New measures will tackle the growing threat of child sexual exploitation and abuse online, with tech bosses facing large fines and even sentencing for failing to protect them from dangerous content.

Rail replacement buses

Locally, I held an urgent meeting with Greater Anglia to push for better rail replacement provisions. This followed their announcement not to run replacement buses along the Hertford East/Liverpool Street line during five days of planned engineering works last month. People across Hertford and Stortford need to know that the right provisions will be provided for them when their journeys are affected. I am glad Greater Anglia has taken this feedback from our meeting on board and is now working towards making sure this does not happen again.

Ware Post Office update

We are now temporarily without

a post office in Ware town centre. Morrisons’ rush to shut it down meant this would, unfortunately, always be the case. I did look at getting Post Office vans to visit Ware in the interim, but none were available.

I have had several meetings to push the Post Office and other stakeholders for action since and

am encouraged there continues to be more good news as a result. Discussions with applicants to host the new premises are taking place. As soon as a successful applicant has been chosen, more details will be shared. Joining my Facebook group ‘Save Ware High Street’s Post Office’ is the best way to stay updated.

tile donated

I was delighted to donate an original tile from the House of Commons to Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall, following the Palace of Westminster’s recent restoration. The tile has been placed next to a stone, also from the House of Commons, that was given to the hall when it was built in 1953. I attended a lovely unveiling ceremony with local officials and school children to celebrate. I hope the tile will continue to be visited and enjoyed for years to come.

Historic

Why an experienced broker can beat an online comparison site

that treasured personal possession, not having the use of your motor vehicle, or losing the use of some valuable business equipment?

At times like these that ‘cheap’ premium will serve not only to compound your misery but also your costs.

Many people, whether they are searching for business or personal insurances, will often question the role and value of involving a broker when it comes to choosing their insurance solution – after all if we can ‘self-service’ online, surely that will guarantee a cheaper insurance premium. But does it?

I would argue, and of course you would expect me to, that using a broker – one that fully understands your needs and risk – would not only provide you with a more comprehensive solution, but one that could save you money in the longer term and provide you with complete peace

of mind. Let me tell you why. In the current economic climate, we all want to ensure that we are getting the best value for money and whilst it could be perceived that the cheapest insurance option is to buy online via one of the aggregators, what about the consequences of buying ‘budget’ cover when it comes to making a claim?

Times are hard enough, but imagine not being able to replace

When you purchase any form of cover online, you become your own broker. It is classed as a ‘non-advised’ sale and you have no right of recourse: you made the selection, and the choice of cover was down to you.

In comparison, if you purchase cover from a regulated insurance broker and engage them for advice, then not only will you have that extra layer of comfort, but if it all does go wrong then you have the right to claim back any losses incurred for incorrect advice.

In fact, most insurers save their best rates for independent regional insurance brokers as well. They recognise that we

will conduct a full and thorough audit before making a recommendation, thus ensuring less of a risk to them and avoiding potential fraudulent policy set-up, something which is much more common via the online platforms. Ultimately the choice of how you buy your insurance solution is down to you and given that none of us ever think we’re going to make a claim, then perhaps cheapest is best.

However, do remember that we can’t control all the variables: the other driver, the opportunist thief or even a genuine accident.

Ashbourne Insurance are a third generation family-run business established over 40 years offering insurance solutions to both the business community and local residents.

You can trust us to find the right solution for you.

If you would like to find out how we can help you with either business or personal insurance, call us on 01992 471001.

The obvious solution is not always the best one in the long term, says Peter Smits of Ashbourne Insurance

BRIEFING SPONSORED CONTENT FROM STEVENAGE BOROUGH COUNCIL

Stevenage Borough Council wants to hear your views on an Area Action Plan for future change

This CGI shows one proposal for how the area could look

It’s a great time to live in Stevenage at present, with plenty of reinvestment happening to fund major redevelopment within our town.

Your views will help to shape the renewal and regeneration of Stevenage for future generations.

As part of this consultation, Stevenage Borough Council would love to hear your comments on the proposals for the Station Gateway Area Action Plan, which has been identified as a key site for new development within the borough.

The previous round of consultation closed in November 2021 and as a result, we’ve listened and drawn up new proposals based on this feedback.

We’ve reached a stage where we’re ready to hear your thoughts on these new proposals for the Station Gateway Area Action Plan.

It’s worth bearing in mind that the AAP contains key concepts at this stage and does not suggest specific proposals for the railway station or Lytton Way.

Give us your views

It includes proposed scenarios and visions as to how the railway station area and beyond could look and this is where we need you to tell us your thoughts –whether you commute into or out of the town for work, come and visit relatives or you live here, everyone’s opinion counts

HOW TO TAKE PART

The consultation runs from 30th January to 18th March 2023.

Tell us your views today: stevenageplanningpolicy.commonplace.is

and we want to hear from people of all ages too.

This consultation closes on 18th March 2023 and is an opportunity for everyone to have a say in shaping these proposals and the future look of a major gateway into our town.

It will provide a great opportunity for the public and key stakeholders to engage and shape this area, acting as a catalyst for developers interested in supporting this key part of the Stevenage Borough Local Plan.

Submit your views today, by visiting stevenageplanningpolicy. commonplace.is or email your thoughts to the Planning Policy Team at planning.policy@ stevenage.gov.uk.

We Want Your Views We Want Your Views

Granary & Chapel offers high quality, enviable living in Hertford

Show home event on 11th & 12th February is first chance to see the stunning interiors

Built on the former site of Hertford Town Granary and Chapel Mill, Granary & Chapel is a high quality new homes develoment by Durkan Homes, who recently built The Stiles in nearby Bengeo. The modern homes on the site in Tamworth Road, just a stone’s throw from Hertford’s vibrant and historic town centre, feature considered, creative designs that reflect the rich heritage of the site.

This boutique development offers a mix of modern, urban-style one and two bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom houses with garages, carports and parking.

The high specification properties are designed for modern lifestyles, benefiting from designer integrated kitchens, large windows and higher ceilings to maximise light and space.

the apartments and £755,000 for the houses.

The grand opening of Granary & Chapel show home takes place on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th February.

Attendance is by appointment only.

Please call 01992 660720 or email granaryandchapel@ ashtons.co.uk to register your interest and be among the first to view Durkan’s striking new development in Hertford.

New shared ownership apartments for sale at Cheshunt Lakeside

50% shares available from just £145,000 at The Quadra Apartments on

exciting new

development near station and Lee Valley Park

New apartments are now available to buy on a shared ownership basis as part of the new Cheshunt Lakeside development.

The one, two and three-bedroom homes at The Quadra Apartments are now being sold to help local people get on the housing ladder by B3 at Home, a brand launched by Hoddesdon-based housing association B3 Living. Built in partnership with Inland Homes, The Quadra Apartments forms part of a 1,700-home development on the site of the former Tesco HQ.

Ideally situated for commuters within walking distance of the London Overground line at Cheshunt, the development is also close to the popular Lee Valley Park.

The Quadra Apartments benefits

from energy-efficient lighting and appliances and high insulation levels. Off-street parking is available and residents will have access to green corridors, pocket parks and some electric vehicle charging points will be available. Prices start from just £145,000 for a 50% share in a home, with a minimum deposit of £7,250. With shared ownership, you can buy with a much lower deposit than normal because you purchase a share, typically 50%, that you pay a mortgage on and pay rent for the remainder, while being able to gradually purchase more shares until you own the home outright.

For more information, to register your interest or arrange a viewing, call 020 7539 3745 or visit b3athome-cheshunt.co.uk/phase2.

NEW SHARED OWNERSHIP HOMES

IN CHESHUNT OF50% PHASE RESERVED1

Located opposite Lee Valley Park, The Quadra Apartments are part of the exciting new Cheshunt Lakeside development. With high specifications throughout, private balconies or terraces, landscaped podium garden, new cycle and pedestrian routes and easy access to central London, it’s an ideal place to make your home.

READY TO MOVE INTO NOW!

PRICES FROM £145,000 FOR A 50% SHARE

To book your viewing appointment please call 020 7539 3745 or visit b3athome-cheshunt.co.uk/phase2

The winners and finalists from Love Hoddesdon Business Awards

More than 800 votes were cast online in the Love Hoddesdon Business Awards 2022 which seek to recognise the quality and excellence various businesses and individuals add to the vibrancy of Hoddesdon.

The winners were announced at an event in late January and the winners and finalists in each of the categories were as follows:

Community / Charity

Business of the Year

Winner: Mayhem Group

Finalists: Claire Bayless (Community Champion, Morrisons) and Teens Unite Fighting Cancer

Food & Drink

Retailer of the Year

Winner: Smokeshed Bar & Grill

Finalists: Nonna’s Kitchen and White Swan

Health, Beauty and Wellbeing

Business of the Year

Winner: MFB Osteopathy

Finalists: Empowered by GNC

Fitness and Energie Fitness

Retailer of the Year

Winner: Cannon Travel

Finalists: Louise’s Florist and The Eye

Service Business of the Year

Winner: Moore Teachers Ltd

Finalists: Room at the Top Recruitment and Shepherd’s Estate Agents

Voluntary Member of the Year

Winner: Louise Guiver (Dog First Aid)

Finalists: HABS Family Support and Slimming World (Hoddesdon)

Each finalist received a framed certificate, whilst winners received an engraved glass trophy.

2023’s programme of town centre events is revealed

The programme of town centre events for 2023 has now been drawn up and is as follows:

Saturday 1st April (10am-5pm)

St George’s Festival and Parade

Friday 5th to Monday 8th May

King’s Coronation Celebrations: four day funfair featuring a street party on Sunday 7th May (10am -6.30pm)

Saturday 1st July (10am-4pm)

Vintage and Classic Car Day

Sunday 20th August (11am-7.30pm)

Rock Around the Clock Tower

Saturday 16th September (10am-6pm)

Food and Drink Festival

Sunday 12th November

Do you… Hoddesdon

(10am-11.30am)

Remembrance Sunday Parade

Saturday 25th November (10am-6pm)

Hoddesdon Loves Christmas and Father Christmas Parade

Friday 29th December –Tuesday 2nd January New Year’s Fair. More details to follow later.

RE-ELECTED BID STARTS TO IMPLEMENT PLANS

Love Hoddesdon BID Ltd, which represents the business improvement district covering Hoddesdon town centre (comprising around 200 businesses), was re-elected in October 2022 for a further five-year term which began on 1st January 2023.

It is now setting about implementing its business plan aimed at continuing to improve the vibrancy of Hoddesdon town centre.

The plan can be viewed at lovehoddesdon.com.

ANNUAL REPORT PUBLISHED

As a business improvement district, Love Hoddesdon BID Ltd is required to produce an annual report outlining to BID levy payers what they have achieved over the preceding year, where their BID levy has been spent and what is planned for the future. The annual report for 2022 has recently been published and can also be viewed online at lovehoddesdon.com.

SUPPORTING BUSINESSES

Local businesses are kept updated about things associated with the town at monthly Networking Breakfasts. These are free to both BID levy payers and voluntary members, with a charge of £8 (including breakfast) for non-members.

The next Networking Breakfast is on Tuesday 14th February (8am to 9.30am). If your business is interested in attending or becoming a voluntary member contact lovehoddesdon@outlook.com.

The winners of the Love Hoddesdon Business Awards with (on the left) Cllr Steve Wortley, Broxbourne Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, and Kevin Brooks, chairman of Love Hoddesdon (4th right)

TREATMENT OF THE MONTH: CRYOLIFTING AT BEAUSYNERGY

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Since opening in August, 2022, Jae (owner and Yoga teacher) has nurtured Blend Organics to become ‘all things wellbeing’ , applying her LA expectations to the quality of vegan food and drink, and appetite for a wide variety of styles and levels to rival a London work out studio.

The café already boasts its own regulars, known on first name terms, in for their regular organic juice, smoothie, speciality coffee, the popular açai bowl, avocado toast or soup. Some have made Blend their ‘working from home’

Blend Organics

space, for others it’s a community space to chill in and chat, after a Barre, Pilates or Yoga class.

The beautifully Zen studio, complete with mirrors, and aircon/heating, is where 15+ classes take place each week. These range from morning to evening with Barre, Yoga and Pilates + monthly workshops.

Barre is still the ‘big city’ craze, for its feel-good music, high energy and total body workout. Great for burning fat and improving cardiovascular fitness to create a flexible and toned body.

12 Amwell End, Ware SG12 9HW

www.blendorganics.co.uk

info@blendorganics.co.uk

Wellness clinic Aqua-Tox moves to new home at Foxholes Farm

Wellness clinic Aqua-Tox has moved into much larger new premises in Hertford, after starting life in a garden studio belonging to one of its founders seven years ago. Natalie East and Natasha O’Gorman’s business has taken over a converted barn on the Foxholes Farm site on the edge of town. From there, Natalie, Natasha and their team of expert therapists offer a wide range of health and aesthetics treatments including colon hydrotherapy, laser skin care, laser hair removal, fat reduction, cryotherapy and oxygen therapy in a private, relaxing and friendly environment. The pair have invested in the latest technology to provide safe and effective treatments for their clients, using the best treatment machines on the market, including the Soprano Titanium laser hair removal system, the Lipofirm Pro fat reduction system, the Emsella

chair for incontinence and the Harmony XL Pro skin laser system. They also have a cryotherapy chamber and infrared sauna. As well as paying for individual treatments, clients are also given the option of signing up to memberships at Aqua-Tox, which enable them to access a series of treatments every month along with guest passes and exclusive members-only prices on other treatments.

You will find Aqua-Tox on Foxholes Farm, London Road, Hertford SG13 7NT. Visit aqua-tox.co.uk for more information or call 01992 878381.

Love local this Valentine’s Day in Bishop’s Stortford

With Valentine’s Day falling in the middle of half term this year, Bishop’s Stortford BID has put together a round-up of ideas to entertain the children as well as some ideas to treat your loved one.

You will find plenty of ways to make Valentine’s Day special in Bishop’s Stortford, and you may not know, but 14th February is also Love Local Day, a national campaign to support the high street. There is a wide choice of cards and gifts now in store – flowers, chocolates, jewellery, homeware, food and drink, beauty products and much more. If you are stuck for ideas, the Bishop’s Stortford Gift Card is a great solution as it’s accepted by over 30 local retailers. Why not plan a romantic evening at one of the town’s many bars, restaurants or leisure venues? But don’t forget to book!

This half term you don’t have to go far to entertain the kids, with a choice of options in the town.

l Empire Cinema is a great choice for a rainy day with child and family tickets available.

l Ace of Lanes has fun for all the family with bowling, interactive darts, golf simulator, pool and a mouth-watering menu.

l Thirst Youth Café is for young people aged 11 to 18 offering table tennis, pool, darts, board and video games, snacks, drinks and more.

l Bishop’s Stortford Library has a range of activities including rhyme time and story time

sessions. Pop in or check social media for more information.

New town centre openings

If you haven’t been into the town centre for a little while, you will be pleased to know several new businesses have opened up. It’s well worth a visit to discover what’s new in town.

Adnams have opened a shop just up the hill in High Street; Water Lane bar has reopened with new owners; Butcher and Grill is a brand new restaurant in Station Road and South Street has welcomed St Clare Hospice with a new charity shop and Firat, a new restaurant. Work has also begun on a new Potter Street store, with Pret due to open up there very soon.

This year will also see the redevelopment of Jackson Square. As part of the plans, Jackson Square is welcoming global brand TK Maxx into a 21,000 sq ft new retail unit. Several additional new units will also be created outside the centre in Bridge Street. The renovations are due to be complete in 2024.

Love local this February, and support your local businesses.

Adnams has opened in High Street. Below (clockwise from left): Why not visit Ace of Lanes, Butcher and Grill and Empire Cinema?

Discover a wide variety of venues to eat, shop and keep the kids entertained in half term too

Pret is opening soon

WHAT’S ON

Where to see the snowdrops during February

Days out in February are synonymous with seeing displays of beautiful snowdrops at public gardens around the area. Here are some of the places to enjoy these little flowers, which traditionally herald the first signs of Spring, this year:

Benington Lordship Gardens

The gardens between Ware and Stevenage are open daily from Saturday 4th to Sunday 26th February from 11am to 4pm, while there will also be plants for sale, from Harveys Garden Plants, on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th. Admission is £7 for adults (£8 on Sundays) children aged 3-16 £3. beningtonlordship.co.uk

The Gibberd Garden

The garden in Old Harlow will open on Sundays and Wednesdays from Sundays 12th to 26th February for a series of Snowdrops

and Hellebores Days. On Sundays opening times will be 12-4pm and on Wednesdays from 2-4pm. Refreshments will be available in the Café in the Barn. Admission is £5 for adults, £4 concessions, £1 children aged 5-16. thegibberdgarden.co.uk

THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO GO

LOCAL GROUPS

In north Enfield, Myddelton House Gardens are open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm and entry is free, with a parking charge of £2.50. The Bowles Tea Room will also be open. visitleevalley.org.uk

Four great places to take the children this half term

Stuck for inspiration to keep the kids entertained during half term? Here are some ideas for you:

Harlow Leisurezone

With its swimming pool, Urban Limitz Adventure Trampoline Park, Kidzz Kingdom Soft Play and VertiGo Climb Challenge, this venue close to Harlow town centre offers multiple attractions on one site. harlowleisurezone.co.uk

Epping-Ongar Railway

Step back in time and learn about the history of the heritage railway with a trip along the line from Epping to Ongar. The railway has a Kids for a Quid offer running throughout this half term offering a great value day out. Child tickets are just £1 for unlimited travel on the trains and heritage buses for a whole day.

eorailway.co.uk

A day out at Paradise Wildlife Park in Broxbourne can incorporate a look at more than 30 animatronic dinosaurs in the World of Dinosaurs attraction –guaranteed to amaze any child, as well an opportunity to see lions, tigers, snow leopards, reindeer, camels, gibbons and lemurs

among many other animals. pwpark.com

Roller City Campus West in Welwyn Garden City has a cinema, soft play area and Roller City – a dedicated indoor roller disco for families, teens and adults. campuswest.co.uk

WALKS AND TALKS WITH RSPB GROUP

The RSPB has a very active south-east Herts group which holds several events this month, with walks in Heartwood Forest near St Albans and Fishers Green, Waltham Abbey. It also has an indoor meting on Tuesday 28th February with a talk by Robin Claydon on ‘My encounters with wildlife’. Visit rspb.org.uk and search for the South East Hertfordshire group for details.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER SERVICE IN WARE

World Day of Prayer, formerly Women’s World Day of Prayer, is a women-led International Ecumenical movement which holds annual services around the world in March. Each year the service is devised by the women of a different country. The service this year, entitled ‘I have heard about your faith’ has been written by the women of Taiwan. Here in the UK the various churches in each town get together and make the arrangements for the service in that town. The service in Ware is on Friday 3rd March at 11am at the Church of the Sacred Heart and St Joseph, King Edward’s Road, Ware SG12 7EJ. Everyone is welcome.

Myddelton House Gardens

Paradise Wildlife Park

A fairytale view of the magic of steam at Epping-Ongar Railway

Tickets: £15

Book now for Oliver!, the first production by the newly renamed Ware Musical Theatre

A theatre in the round production of the famous musical Oliver! will mark the first performances of the newly renamed, award-winning local company formerly known as Ware Operatic.

For more than 50 years the group has been performing a wide variety of shows and concerts but the start of the millennium marked the beginning of a change for the society.

Its usual programme of opera/ operetta gradually began to give way to more modern musicals to reflect the public’s changing tastes and now, in keeping with the trend being followed by many amateur companies, the group has changed its name… to Ware Musical Theatre. Its first performances will be of Lionel Bart’s famous musical in Ware Drill Hall, which will take place from Tuesday 28th March to Saturday 1st April.

The shows will take place in a theatre in the round setting, as was used during Hertford Theatre’s recent successful Christmas show The Snowsmith at the Drill Hall, with the audience on raised seating surrounding the stage area. Dickensian London is the setting for the story, the film version of which is one of the few musicals to win an Academy Award for best picture. This adaptation includes a talented cast alongside some 40 children from local

schools and drama groups as Fagin’s gang, making it a show for all the family to enjoy. To book your tickets visit waremusical theatre.org uk or call the box office on 07754 781049.

Tickets cost between £17 and £21 depending upon the performance and shows are at 7.30pm each night with a 2.30pm matinée on the Saturday as well.

Ware Drill Hall is in Amwell End, Ware.

Half term releases dominate film schedule

The Fabelmans (12A)

Now showing

As if Steven Spielberg hadn’t made enough of an impact on cinema history, he brings us a deeply personal film based on his own past. It’s a funny and lovely movie about a boy who falls in love with cinema – a real coming of age story about an isolated young man in pursuit of his dreams.

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (PG)

Now showing Antonio Banderas returns as the voice of the notorious Puss in Boots, the swashbuckling, death-defying feline in this, the latest from Dreamworks Animation. PiB has now lost eight of his nine lives and getting those lives back will entail him embarking on his grandest quest yet. Also featuring the voices of Olivia Colman, Ray Winstone and Salma Hayek, this is perfect fare for the half term holidays.

Epic Tails (U)

From Friday 10th February

And here’s another one... this time the story of a super-smart mouse called Pattie and her feline friend Sam who embark on an epic adventure through Ancient Greece. With a little help from ageing hero Jason (he of the argonauts fame), the animals face some of the most bizarre creatures from Greek mythology as they race to save their city from the threat of none other than Poseidon himself. This one features the voices of Rob Beckett and John Widdicombe among others.

What’s Love Got To Do With It? (12A)

From Friday 24th February

Lily James plays documentary maker Zoe whose own attempts at finding love by swiping right have ended up with a string of bad dates and funny anecdotes, much to the dimay of her opinionated mother (played by Emma Thompson). When her childhood friend and neighbour Kazim opts for an arranged marriage and she starts filming him on his journey to Pakistan, she begins to wonder if she might have something to learn from a different approach.

Two exhibitions at Parndon Mill gallery

The Way I See It is the title of the current exhibition at Harlow’s Gallery at Parndon Mill which is now showing until Sunday 19th February. It features the work of three artists, Jane Lewis, Sam Hacking and Lucy Scott, who live near each other and respond to their landscape and surroundings in their art. The elements, seasons and weather all play an important part in their work though they each produce strikingly different paintings. Their works are complemented by the bold and beautiful ceramics of Simon Sharp.

Later in the month, the gallery will show a new exhibition, called Vertu, beginning on Thursday 23rd February and running until 6th April.

It features a series of oil paintings by Liz Boast, based on life drawings and worked on over time until the actual form is almost lost – the figures come and go as more layers of paint are added.

Paintings of harlequins have always been a favourite of the artist and are included among the pieces.

Parndon Mill is in Parndon Mill Lane, Harlow CM20 2HP. Visit parndonmill.co.uk or call 01279 426042 for opening times.

HSO to perform Classic Masterworks

Classic Masterworks with Hertford Symphony Orchestra will be performed at Ware Drill Hall on Saturday 4th March at 7.45pm. Daniel Hogan is guest conductor for the concert and cello soloist is Joely Koos, principal cello with English Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are £17 for adults and £8 for children and are available from Hertford Town and Tourist Information Centre on 01992 584322 or online at wegottickets.co.uk.

Puss in Boots is back

FOOD & DRINK

Limone Sicilian kitchen brings something fresh to Hoddesdon

Ten years ago this June the Bondi family from Hoddesdon opened their first restaurant, Cibo, in Bishop’s Stortford, which is still going strong.

But, as Melissa Baranowski, one of the two sisters who run the business on a day to day basis, admits, they have also always wanted to open one in their own home town if the right premises became available.

Towards the end of last year that dream came true when Melissa and her sister Laura Bondi were able to open Limone, a Sicilian kitchen based in the premises previously occupied by Zagara Italian restaurant.

And since that opening, the community of Hoddesdon have truly welcomed them.

Don’t miss 20% off lunch offer for Axis readers this month

During the month of February, Limone is making a special offer to Axis readers – with 20 per cent off food at lunchtimes from Tuesday to Friday between 12 and 3pm (excluding the £13 lunch menu) – see advert on page opposite for full details. Please mention offer when ordering.

It is not hard to see why – the attention to detail the two sisters have put into their substantial revamp of the High Street premises is clear, from the personally designed, bespoke crockery that was decorated and handmade in Italy and shipped over specially (arriving just in time for the opening!) to the layout of the various areas inside the restaurant, including the Aperitivo Bar with its very Instagrammable wall, the Lemon Room, the Terrazza and the Olive Room which is also available for private dining. So popular has the restaurant become already in fact that regulars from Cibo have made the journey across to Hoddesdon to try out the new venue and, following a

two-week closure at the start of January for a holiday, there was a queue of people outside the door on reopening day!

Limone has certainly brought something fresh to Hoddesdon. It has a seasonally changing menu of Sicilian and Italian classics with a modern twist, including pizza and pasta, and both vegan and gluten-free menus are available. Pescatarians are also well catered-for; seafood being a huge part of Sicilian food. There is a set lunch menu with two courses for just £13 from 12-4pm daily and a happy hour with two for one cocktails in the Aperitivo Bar from 3-5pm Tuesday to Friday when sharing plates can also be enjoyed. All dishes are made fresh from

scratch, with pizza dough and bread made on the premises and produce comes from top quality Italian suppliers.

The wine list is made up of exclusively Sicilian and Italian wines and there are also some selected Sicilian beers.

Limone is open five days a week from Tuesday to Saturday from 12noon with the kitchen closing at 10pm. It is closed on Sunday and Monday.

Takeaway is available – both for collection and for delivery through GoGetters.

Limone

109-111 High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8TN 01992 466677

limonesiciliankitchen.co.uk

Ritchie’s wine notes

By Ritchie Tough of Cavavin

The best wines for Valentine’s

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching (it’s Tuesday 14th February for those of you who haven’t looked it up yet!) Cavavin is taking a look at ideal wines for this occasion. Rosé wines immediately spring to mind, as does Saint-Amour in Beaujolais (Gamay grape). The Saint-Amour appellation takes its title from the Saint-Amour-Bellevue commune, itself named after a Ro-

man soldier who escaped death by converting to Christianity. Legend has it that he established a monastery in the area, and was later canonised as Saint Amateur (amateur meaning ‘lover’ in French). Sales of Saint-Amour wine therefore tend to soar around St Valentine’s Day in February with 20 to 25 per cent of annual sales occurring in the month of February.

DINING OUT GUIDE

PIRCIO Italian & Turkish

Pircio is a family-run independent restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford that offers two different menus of Italian and Turkish cuisine. Both menus are cooked by teams of specialist chefs and diners can choose from pizza, pasta and other Italian classics or dishes such as halloumi, falafel, moussaka and lamb tagine. The historic Drill Hall building has been smartly refurbished and can seat 200 people downstairs whilst there is also a mezzanine for private dining. Pircio is open seven days a week, all day.

Drill Hall, Market Square, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU

01279 898181

pirciorestaurant.com

SAFFRON Indian

Fleshy and with full redcurrant expression, this cuvee of Saint-Amour is fruity and full of freshness. With a serving temperature of 12/13C it’s also great in the summer.

Some of the best wines are coming out of Provence and ours is stunning for the price, with floral notes, citrus fruits, red berries and a rounded palate with a fresh finish.

Buy both of these wines at Cavavin, your local, independent wine shop. Find it at 22 Maidenhead Street, Hertford SG14 1DR. Call 01992 558311 or visit cavavin.co.uk/hertford

The quality of the well-established and award-winning Indian restaurant Saffron in Hoddesdon has been widely recognised. This stylish restaurant is a contemporary venue in which both traditional and unique Indian dishes can be enjoyed alongside superb service. It can cater for both large gatherings and more intimate dinners and also offers an outside catering service.

If you fancy trying Saffron’s great food at home, both delivery and collection are currently available with a 10% discount for collections.

25 High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8SX 01992 461171 / 01992 461160 www.saffrononline.co.uk

BROHMON Bengali

Voted Best Restaurant in Essex at the 4th annual British Restaurant Awards 2022, Brohmon, which means Journey in Bengali, is the brainchild of Karim Ullah and his wife Sultana who have made it their mission to bring high quality food from the Bengal region of South Asia to Britain. They began by running pop-ups in Hertfordshire before opening their own restaurant in Stansted Mountfitchet near Bishop’s Stortford. They have also opened a takeaway and delivery outlet in Hertford – you can order through gogetters.co.uk.

8 Chapel Hill, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8AG

01279 815688

brohmon.com

Domaine Benon Saint-Amour 2019, £16.50

Inna Pierrevert Rosé 2021, £10

THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining

Nestled in the picturesque village of Great Amwell, The George IV is the perfect spot for you to enjoy imaginative, freshly prepared dishes, including traditional pub classics, served in a friendly pub atmosphere or on the fully heated terrace area. The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event. From intimate weddings, birthday parties and anniversaries to baby showers and corporate events, they’ve got it covered with their beautiful function room and variety of dining options.

Cautherly Lane, Great Amwell SG12 9SW / 01920 870039 info@georgeivpub.co.uk www.georgeivpub.co.uk

KHAO YAI Thai

Khao Yai is the new name for the Hoddesdonbased Thai restaurant formerly known as Omsin’s. Now under new ownership, Khao Yai offers a broad menu of your favourite Thai dishes alongside superb service. Now open seven days a week, Khao Yai also offers both takeaway (with a 10% discount for collection) and delivery through its own website as well as delivery apps. In addition to the welcoming ground floor there is a large first floor dining space with its own bar which can also be booked for events, parties and private dining.

18 Brocket Road, Hoddesdon EN11 8NZ 01992 445988

www.khao-yai.co.uk

THE GOLDEN FLEECE Pub & Dining

The Golden Fleece is an old English pub with a contemporary twist, and one where the food is so good that it has earned an entry in the Michelin Guide for Hotels and Restaurants. Set at the heart of the village of Braughing, Jess and Peter Tatlow’s pub offers a menu of fresh, seasonal and delicious locally sourced food and also caters for diners who require gluten-free meals. As a freehouse at the heart of its community, the Fleece is also able to offer a wide range of real ales, beers, wines and spirits. A takeaway menu is also available.

20 Green End, Braughing

SG11 2PG 01920 823555

www.goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk

BAAN THITIYA

Thai

Baan Thitiya, Bishop’s Stortford’s premier Thai restaurant, is the perfect place for relaxed dining. Close to Bishop’s Stortford town centre, it has a beautiful garden and its own parking while, inside, the restaurant is decorated in a contemporary Thai style. The extensive menu features high quality food prepared by Thai chefs with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and authentic, natural flavours. It also has an excellent wine list. Baan Thitiya is open seven days for lunch and dinner. A warm welcome and great service await you.

102 London Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3DS

01279 658575

www.baan-thitiya.com

RONI’S Fine Dining

Roni’s, set in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is a fine dining restaurant where both the quality of food and the service combine to offer guests a memorable experience. Roni’s offers a wide range of traditional dishes, passionately crafted, including gluten-free and vegan menus. There is a set lunch menu as well as the main menu and superb roasts are served on Sundays. Social wine tastings can also be booked for groups of family or friends in the private dining room. Roni’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon to 10pm, and closed on Monday.

16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856

ronisrestaurant.co.uk

THE BEEHIVE Country Pub

This family-run country freehouse reopened following a lockdown renovation with a major extension, creating new modern facilities which blend well with its historic character. The new look is proving popular with customers enjoying a menu that has plenty of fresh fish and seafood dishes as well as steaks, burgers, pies and many others. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are always available. It also offers a great Sunday lunch. Afternoon teas, which must be booked, are available from Monday to Saturday. Check social media for forthcoming events. Book now to experience its fresh new look!

Epping Green, near Hertford

SG13 8NB / 01707 875959

www.beehiveeppingreen.co.uk

Thomas Childs are delighted to bring to market this Grade II listed family home which offers over 4,900 Sq Ft of space. Spread over 4 floors this magnificent 5 bedroom home offers flexible and generous accommodation. It really does need to be viewed to appreciate what is on offer. With a plot size of 0.4 of an acre the property also enjoys a further 7.29 acres purchased and managed by the Hertingfordbury Park management company for its members to enjoy.

Please call for further information or to book an appointment on 01992 721321.