Axis magazine February 2024 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally February 2024

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE CURTAIN WILL RISE

East Herts commits to funding Hertford Theatre

NEW SITE FOR GOOGLE Tech giant to build data centre in Cheshunt

TIME TO FLY

Why the RAF Museum is a must-visit this half term

AT THE CINEMA

The five best films to see in the next month

FOOD AND DRINK

Baar Baar multi-cuisine sports bar opens in Hertford

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WELCOME

FEBRUARY 2024 | NO. 253

What’s inside this issue ABOUT AXIS

05-08 y Briefing The latest on major developments in Hertford, Cheshunt and Harlow

13 y The mortgage market Mortgage broker Dan Munoz tells us what to expect in 2024

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)

19-24 y What’s on A new biopic about Bob Marley plus half term ideas and our arts picks

25-27 y Food & drink Now you can eat out and enjoy live sport at Baar Baar in Hertford

15 & 17 y BID updates: The latest from Hoddesdon and Bishop’s Stortford 18 y Go compare?: Why a local insurance broker can get you the best deal Front cover images (clockwise from top) The eagerly-awaited Dune 2 is out on 1st March at local cinemas – book now (p23); The de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra are playing at the University of Hertfordshire this month (p23); Google’s data centre site in Cheshunt (p6); Hertford Theatre (p5); See snowdrops at local gardens during February (p21); Visit the RAF Museum in Colindale during half term (p21).

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. axis magazine 3

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BRIEFING

NEWS WORTH KNOWING

Extra £6m agreed to complete new Hertford Theatre East Herts Council has found itself having to agree to spend a further £6million to complete the redevelopment of Hertford Theatre, with the acceptance that not doing so could itself risk tipping the local authority into bankruptcy.

The additional funding takes the latest estimated final cost of the project, which was anticipated in 2018 to be £13.5million, to more than £30million.

At an extraordinary meeting of the full council on Thursday 18th January, councillors agreed to the money needed being raised through the sale of a number of as yet unnamed council assets such as buildings previously acquired as investments.

The aim of the Hertford Theatre redevelopment plans, which were drawn up under the previous Conservative-led administration, was to further improve on the venue’s already popular offering and in doing so take it from a position of reliance on a £100,000 subsidy each year to one where it generated a surplus.

Under the plans, the size of the main auditorium is being increased to attract touring productions, three cinema screens are being added to allow new release films to be shown in the town for the first time in decades and the venue will boast a new riverside café and additional upstairs bar.

The completion of Hertford Theatre has been guaranteed, but at a cost

A year after the project was agreed necessary design changes saw councillors agree to adding another £6.4million to the budget taking the anticipated cost to just short of £20million.

But since then costs have continued to rise, with the project, like other construction schemes across the country, dogged by inflation with Brexit, the Covid pandemic and the war in Ukraine all contributing to the rise in costs of labour, energy and materials.

The costs could still end up being higher than this latest estimate although at January’s meeting the

council’s executive member for financial sustainability Cllr Carl Brittain said that with the building scheduled to be completed in May this did not leave much time for costs to rise dramatically.

The stark reality the council faces is that having come so far with the project, to not complete it, or to only complete part of it, would mean a loss of revenue at the same time as a requirement to pay back, with interest, the money borrowed so far, something the council would be unlikely to be able to manage.

Updating councillors on the project at January’s meeting, the

council’s executive member for wellbeing, Cllr Sarah Hopewell, said the recommendation to agree the further spend had not been reached lightly with multiple other options including not opening one of the cinemas and not fitting out the studio theatre considered but discounted.

While the majority of councillors voted to approve the recommendation many, including Liberal Democrat group leader Mione Goldspink, said they did so with a heavy heart having warned the previous Conservative administration of the dangers of embarking upon a number of major projects including redeveloping both Grange Paddocks and Hartham Leisure Centres at the same time as the theatre project.

Labour’s Carolyn Redfern said itwas on record that she had always said the project was very ambitious and it was obvious that costs were going to keep on increasing but said she too now had no choice but to vote in favour of committing more money to it.

There was however, despite frustrations at the mounting costs, much agreement that once open the theatre would be a fantastic facility that would bring benefits to local residents, businesses, and both the town and overall district.

Now, at last, that opening is finally in sight.

Town council steps in with £325k grant for studio theatre space Hertford Town Council has stepped in to help ensure that the Hertford Theatre project can be completed with a grant of £325,000 towards the fitting out of the new 150-seat studio theatre space.

The fit out, along with a planned boardwalk linking the theatre with the grounds of Hertford Castle, had been taken out of the East Herts Council’s contract with contractor GPF Lewis in a bid to keep costs down with the council exploring other sources of funding.

Cllr Paul Williams, the chair of the finance, policy and administration committee at the town council, said: “The new Hertford Theatre complex will make a significant difference to the cultural life of Hertford and we are pleased to be part of this exciting project.”

East Herts Council’s executive member for wellbeing, Cllr Sarah Hopewell, said: “We are delighted and grateful to Hertford Town Council for their generous grant towards this important project

for Hertford. The grant is key to enabling the studio theatre to open as planned later in the year, and we hope to be able to work closely with the town council to ensure that the theatre and studio theatre provide the best possible offer to residents.”

East Herts is hoping that the walkway might eventually be able to be funded via a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund if a wider bid for money to improve the castle gardens is successful.

Cllr Sarah Hopewell at the theatre axis magazine 5

BRIEFING

So, want to know what that huge site being developed by the A10 is? Just it Google has announced that it has begun work building a new data centre on a 33-acre site next to Broxbourne Council’s Theobalds Enterprise Centre just off the A10 in Cheshunt.

Data centres are physical buildings or facilities housing IT infrastructure such as servers that run and deliver applications and services and store and manage the data associated with them.

Google’s data centres help power its popular digital services – like Cloud, Workspace, Search, Maps and YouTube – and the company says its continued investment in technical infrastructure including its data centres (in this case to the tune of $1billion), plays a critical role in supporting the company’s artificial intelligence innovations and cloud needs in the UK. The leader of Broxbourne Council, Cllr Lewis Cocking, said Google’s decision to base its new data centre in the borough was “a sign of Broxbourne’s growing importance as a hub for technology and

David Lloyd won’t seek re-election as Herts PCC

Work has begun on the data centre behind Theobalds Enterprise Centre

innovation.” He added: “Through this development and others, this part of the borough is attracting millions of pounds of investment which will improve the local economy and create thousands of jobs.

The council is committed to working with our partners to make this, and other developments, a great

success for everyone involved.”

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed the news, announced on 18th January, saying the company’s $1billion investment at Cheshunt was “testament to the fact that the UK is a centre of excellence in technology and has huge potential for growth.”

East Herts bin collection changes confirmed

Major changes to the way household waste is collected in East Herts have been confirmed and will come into operation next year.

From May 2025 residents can expect food waste to be collected on a weekly basis. Each week another collection will also take place – one of either mixed paper and cardboard; remaining dry recycling including glass, plastics, cans, plastic bags and wrapping; and residual waste – so that each type of non-food collection takes place once every three weeks.

East Herts and North Herts councils entered into a shared service arrangement for waste and street 6 axis magazine

cleansing services back in 2017 with waste and recycling collected from approximately 124,000 households and more than 1,920 commercial customers and street cleansing services provided across the combined area.

As they plan for a new contract to be issued, the two authorities have been looking at ways to align the services that they offer their respective residents as well as to find ways of delivering high quality and well-performing waste and street cleansing services that are both financially and environmentally sustainable.

Other changes from next May include the number of litter bins across the district being reduced by around 30%, an increase in the response times expected for non-urgent, non-scheduled work such as additional street cleansing or the delivery of bins, and a reduction in the number of items collected as part of a bulky waste collection from six to three.

The council has already begun phasing in smaller 180-litre purple-lidded bins to replace the existing 240-litre general waste bins. The transition means that bin sizes and colours will be standardised across East and North Herts which will save money and improve stock levels. Larger bins will remain available though for households who need them such as those with multiple children using nappies or those with other special waste needs.

Cllr Carl Brittain, East Herts’ executive member for financial sustainability, said: “Waste services are currently going through a competitive procurement process.

Ongoing inflation means that the new contract will cost more than the existing one, operated by Urbaser since 2018.

“This has major implications for the council’s finances. These changes will help ensure we are not obliged to make cuts to other vital services.”

Hertfordshire’s current Police and Crime Commissioner, David Lloyd, has said that he won’t be standing for re-election in May this year.

Mr Lloyd is one of the longest-serving commissioners in the country after being elected to the post when it was first created in 2012 and then re-elected in 2016 and again in 2021.

The Police and Crime Commissioner is responsible for the county’s overall policing strategy, producing a Police and Crime Plan, setting the force’s annual budget, and holding the Chief Constable to account.

The new commissioner will be elected in May 2024 when elections for the positions are held across England and Wales.

Mr Lloyd said: “I have served three terms as Police and Crime Commissioner for the county and have thoroughly enjoyed the role and appreciated the wonderful support and friendship of my team.

It has been the greatest privilege of my life representing the amazing people of Hertfordshire. However, one of the arts of leadership is to know when to hand the reins on to someone else. That time has come.

“I have been PCC for over a decade and in that time I have made many positive changes to policing and community safety in the county.

“Hertfordshire now has the largest number of officers in its history; hundreds more than when I first took office. Services for victims have also been transformed so that those who are affected by crime have one of the most comprehensive help and advice centres in the country.”

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axis magazine 7

BRIEFING

Public concern over proposed delivery arrangements for Lea Wharf development Public concern is growing over plans to allow delivery vans and lorries to leave the new Lea Wharf development in the centre of Hertford via the pedestrianised Bircherley Green area onto Railway Street in both the morning and early evening seven days a week.

With the majority of the 98 apartments at the site already occupied, local people have been looking forward to the first commercial openings at Lea Wharf, the successor to the Bircherley Green shopping centre which closed six years ago in 2018.

Boots, the biggest retailer at the scheme, had been expected to open in the run-up to Christmas. However, fitting out of the units has yet to take place.

And, before the commercial units can open, a Delivery and Servicing Management Plan (DSMP) has to be agreed with East Herts Council.

This was submitted in November

by Iceni Projects Ltd, on behalf of Chase New Homes, the developer behind Lea Wharf, and is currently being consulted upon through the council’s planning application process.

At the time of Axis going to press, some 80 objections had been received to its suggestions, from both local residents and some representatives of businesses.

Many are objecting to the route that delivery vehicles should travel – in a loop through the develop-

Delivery vehicles will drive through the development out past WHSmith

ment, accessing it via Bircherley Street, driving along the riverside frontage and into the back of the development before leaving via the pedestrianised Bircherley Green and turning left onto Railway Street.

However, what residents may not realise is that this route has always been intended to be used and, indeed, formed part of the planning permission for the development.

Objectors to the plan point out that the Bircherley Green area is used by Hertford Market on a Saturday as well as for other annual events, and concerns have also been expressed that delivery vehicles coming through the area could endanger pedestrians.

The DSMP also proposes two

timed windows for commercial deliveries – from 7am to 11am and from 4.30pm to 7.30pm, seven days a week.

The plan suggests this is “considered reasonable and proportionate to facilitate the functioning of the commercial units while also ensuring a pleasant environment for visitors and residents.”

However, one woman who has just bought an apartment at Lea Wharf objected, saying she would not have bought her home had she been aware of the proposed delivery arrangements.

If you want to see the plan for yourself, search for application X/22/0517/CND on East Herts Council’s planning portal at eastherts.gov.uk.

Plan submitted for Harlow’s cultural quarter The transformation of Playhouse and College Squares in Harlow into a new arts and cultural destination have moved a step closer after a planning application was submitted.

The application for the £20million Harlow Arts and Cultural Quarter paves the way for the creation of a scheme which is being funded by the government’s Levelling Up Fund and will form a new western gateway as part of the regeneration of Harlow town centre.

It will complement Harlow Playhouse’s existing offer and bring forward a range of new and improved arts spaces including

8 axis magazine

flexible live performance and exhibition spaces; a new café/ restaurant and booking office for the Playhouse; a music school and recording studios; a new location for the Gibberd Gallery which is currently within Harlow Civic

Centre; an improved public realm and 47 high quality new residential apartments.

The application, made by Harlow Council, will be determined by the council itself before 7th March following consultation.

Charging your phone in hospital just got easier The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust has installed free to use charging lockers for mobile devices for use by patients and visitors at its sites.

The new charging lockers, that can charge up to 16 phones and tablets at any one time, are being introduced in the main emergency department, children’s emergency department and a number of other departments, wards and units at Harlow’s Princess Alexandra Hospital.

They are also being introduced at St Margaret’s Hospital outpatients’ department in Epping and near to the café at Herts and Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford.

Users simply place their device into one of the locker compartments, attaching their mobile or tablet to connectors that include lightning, USB-C and USB-Micro and lock the unit using a four-digit code of their own choosing. The lockers are used at the user’s own risk.

Jeffrey Wood, deputy director of ICT at PAHT said: “We live in a society that is becoming increasingly reliant on mobile digital technology, and we understand how important it is for visitors and patients to have access to charging facilities when visiting our hospitals, particularly when finding themselves at our hospitals unexpectedly. We hope they will be put to good use, enabling our patients and visitors to charge their mobile devices with ease.”

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SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Holly’s new aesthetics clinic opens in Ware’s High Street

SKN Lab, a new aesthetics clinic, has opened in High Street, Ware.

The clinic is owned and run by Holly Gough, who hails from neighbouring Hertford. You will find it in the premises at the northern end of the High Street that were last home to Re:Ware dress agency, which now operates exclusively online after leaving the shop last May. Holly has been involved in the beauty and aesthetics industry for over 20 years and qualified to become a Master Trainer for Louise Walsh International, travelling around the world to train beauty therapists, dentists, doctors and surgeons in the use of the plasma pen, a non-surgical lifting and skin tightening procedure that eradicates the need for many common surgeries.

Eight years ago, she founded Ta Moko Beauty in Radlett, which she has now rebranded as SKN Lab Aesthetics and moved closer to home.

SKN Lab specialises in injectable aesthetic treatments that, Holly says, aim to “make you look great

and feel amazing”.

These include the following: Dermal fillers, wrinkle relaxing injections, private blood testing, tear trough boosters, facial boosters, lesion and mole removal, microneedling and meso therapy, and plasma pen skin rejuvenation.

Holly said: “Every aesthetic treatment, alongside the active cosmeceutical products we use, have been researched and personally tested so that we are able to use our products with full confidence, knowing that you will receive a results-driven, client-centred treatment.”

Holly is fully qualified, insured and registered, giving you peace of mind that you are in safe hands.

Treatments are by appointment, though you are welcome to pop in to book appointments or buy products when the clinic is open.

Its current hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm.

Holly Gough, below right, has opened SKN Lab in Ware High Street

SKN Lab 116 High Street, Ware SG12 9AP sknlab.co.uk

Other changes on our high streets A new branch of Jade Pharmacy is opening in the premises by the Lea Wharf development in Hertford that previously housed Graham’s the Jewellers at 29 Bircherley Green.

The pharmacy will be well placed to serve the new, enlarged Lea Wharf Medical practice, which will be opening soon after it moves from its current home in St Andrew Street, where it has been known as Wallace House surgery.

Another recent opening in the

county town in The Antique Barber, which has opened in the former Mado Bakery in Maidenhead Street, while the Popworld late night bar in Bull Plain has been rebranded as Core and is now open once again.

Changes in Bishop’s Stortford include the rebranding of Humphrey’s Butchers as Bishop’s Butchers in Market Square, where the shop’s former manager Rob Wolstencroft has taken over.

For other changes on the high

street in Stortford, see Bishop’s Stortford BID’s update on page 17.

In Sawbridgeworth, the town has recently welcomed a new branch of Churchgate Sausage Shop, which has expanded from its original base at Mayfield Farm in Sheering Road, Old Harlow.

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axis magazine 11

BRIEFING

JULIE MARSON

MP FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD

Why banking hubs are my number one priority for 2024 I want to get straight to my number one priority for this year: getting more banking hubs in our towns. We’ve seen too many banks close across our four towns in recent years and last month I learnt that the Barclays in Bishop’s Stortford will be closing in April too.

While some may consider this a minor issue, it significantly impacts people reliant on traditional banking services beyond what mobile apps can support. As banks increasingly shift towards online banking, their physical branches are bearing the brunt of cost-cut-

ting measures, leaving towns worse off. Local businesses are also affected too, and might struggle to deposit or access cash, hindering both them and their customers again.

Even though modern technology makes it a lot easier for many people to access banking services, they do not work for everyone.

Whether it’s personal choice or practicality, having access to cash and in-person services is crucial.

We are not a cashless society, and everyone still needs to visit a bank at some point. That is why I am

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determined to do everything in my power to ensure access to cash is safeguarded across Hertford and Stortford.

There is a solution: banking hubs.

At these hubs, different banking chains use the same physical space on different days of the week. For example, on a Monday, you might see Santander, on a Tuesday, you might see HSBC, and so on.

With the help of the local community, I successfully campaigned for a banking hub on Ware High Street, which will be delivered later this year.

However, current Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) rules mean that Shared Infrastructure Banks (SIBs) cannot be secured or requested until a town has a single banking chain remaining.

As a result, we cannot fully secure a banking hub for Hertford, Sawbridgeworth or Bishop’s Stortford

until other banks have closed.

Whilst this may not be of concern to many now, it is better to be prepared than to be found lacking.

These rules are not suited to our current situation, with banks regularly closing at a much faster rate, for many reasons. At this time, we are unable to step in and guarantee a hub will be in place before a town loses all its banks, which can and does happen, across the country.

Consequently, changing these rules is my number one priority for 2024 and I’m going to need all the support I can get. If you agree with me, please take a few moments to complete the survey on my website, juliemarson.org.uk.

As always, I will continue to work hard for you as your Member of Parliament. Please do not hesitate to contact me at julie.marson.mp@ parliament.uk – I am here to help.

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PROPERTY NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM WARD ESTATES

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As we all know, interest rate rises have made navigating the mortgage market a lot more difficult over the past year, so here, Dan shares his thoughts on how the market is shaping up in 2024…

After a tricky 12 months or so, there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel. The markets are pricing in quicker-than-expected rate reductions; we expect the base rate to be heading back down towards four per cent by the end of 2024, down from its current level of 5.25 per cent, assuming inflation also continues to move towards its two per cent target. This would require proba-

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reporting that a record number of sellers came to the market on Boxing Day, 2024 really could be a promising year for the housing market and we find ourselves in the midst of a mortgage price war with several high street lenders making significant reductions already. As well as reducing rates, lenders have been improving criteria with better loan-toincomes and better terms for self-employed applicants.

It is great news for borrowers who have struggled with affordability over the past few months.

Although borrowers re-mortgaging this year will still see an increase in their payments, the pain will not be as bad as it could have been.

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axis magazine 12/01/2024 15:47 13

Recruiting now for foster carers in Hertfordshire “ We love our busy home.

It’s good fun” Dawn and Alan, Hertfordshire foster carers

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

FOSTERWITHUS

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/fostering @hertfordshirefostering

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In partnership with

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM LOVE HODDESDON BID

Life-saving defibrillators among our achievements last year Claire Bayless, manager of Love Hoddesdon BID, looks back at 2023 and forward to 2024 Now the new year is underway, it is a good time for Love Hoddesdon BID to reflect on the last 12 months and look forward to what we want to achieve during 2024.

Over the last year, we have seen some changes in our town centre which have had an impact on the BID, leading to a reduction in income while, at the same time, our costs have risen. This means we will be looking carefully at everything we do to ensure we maintain our standards, but cost-effectively.

Among our achievements, we are pleased to say that we have re-introduced our training sessions for local businesspeople, with First Aid and Content Marketing already completed – and fully attended. Now we are looking at introducing more training sessions for our BID levy-payers this year.

In the summer of last year, we purchased our second defibrillator and cabinet for our businesses, visitors and the wider community, and last month we had two bleed kits installed in the cabinets thanks to the charity Hearts for Herts, with the help and support of Cllr Lewis Cocking. The bleed kits are useful to treat victims of car and machinery-related accidents.We will also be organising

Events such as Rock Around the Clocktower bring people into the town centre

Midsummer Festival will be among new events we launch

Claire Bayless, Broxbourne Council leader Cllr Lewis Cocking and Justin Jones of Hearts for Herts. Below: Claire at the fire station’s cabinet

training sessions for businesses and members of the community on how to use these.

Cllr Cocking said: “I’m incredibly pleased to support a Hoddesdon-based charity with the aim of saving lives. It is an absolute no-brainer to have a Heart for Herts bleed kit in existing defibrillator boxes in the town.

I hope they are never needed but it’s always better to have them.”

The two defibrillators are located at Hoddesdon Library in High Street and at Hoddesdon fire station in Burford Street.

As always, we are looking forward to bringing visitors into the town centre this year and we have an array of events lined up.

We will also be introducing some smaller events.

We are looking forward to working with all local community groups and schools on our new event, the Midsummer Festival, which will run from 15th to 24th June, celebrating all Hoddesdon has to offer with a programme of events across the town.

Come along to our next networking breakfast meeting Every month we arrange a networking event which takes place in one of our local restaurants or businesses in the town centre.

We arrange for a speaker to come along and we have updates from local businesses and from the BID. If you are interested in attending, please email us at lovehoddesdon@outlook.com.

Then make sure you…

Do you…

Hoddesdon

SHOP LOCAL EAT LOCAL SPEND LOCAL

www.lovehoddesdon.co.uk axis magazine 15

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SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM BISHOP’S STORTFORD BID

Love Bishop’s Stortford this February

With new openings, refurbishments and renovations, there’s lots to love in Bishop’s Stortford right now, says Madeleine Lees of Bishop’s Stortford BID Valentine’s Day

There are lots of ways to make Wednesday 14th February special in Bishop’s Stortford.

A wide choice of cards and gifts is now available in stores around town, catering for all budgets.

Whether you are planning a romantic meal at one of the town’s restaurants, a drink in a cosy pub or a ready prepared ‘Dine In’ meal in the comfort of your own home, the town centre has you covered.

Bespoke red velvet cakes at South Street Pantry

Patrick Benabid of Wood Grill (2nd right) with the BID and Pulse teams

New boutique cinema

Half Term

Talk of the town is Pulse Cinemas coming to Wood Grill on Station Road. Following the closure of Empire Cinemas, this is very welcome news. Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates.

What else is new?

Deena’s on Northgate End is a new Indian restaurant with contemporary décor and a delicious-looking menu.

Kemphaus, in Florence Walk, is owned by husband-and-wife team Liane and Rob Kemp, who sell high-quality bespoke kitchens and gorgeous gifts for the home.

Koko Brasserie is an exciting brunch venue on South Street, also available for private hire.

Rosey Lea Tearooms in Market Square has a fresh and inviting new look. Dogs are now welcome inside as well as out.

Just across the way, Humphrey’s Butchers is re-branding as Bish-

Rosey Lea (above) and Koko

Keep the kids busy in Bishop’s Stortford, without breaking the bank.

Thirst Youth Café is for 11-18s and offers table tennis, pool, darts, video and board games, as well as snacks and drinks, all under the watchful eye of their brilliant staff.

Bishop’s Stortford Library is a warm, safe space to enjoy books and various activities, including rhyme time, story time and Lego sessions. Baby-changing facilities available.

Ace of Lanes offers fun for all the family with bowling, interactive darts, golf simulator, pool and a

op’s Butchers and is now owned by its previous manager Rob Wolstencroft.

Who’s interested to see what’s coming to the White Hart building on North Street?

menu catering for all tastes and ages.

Little Arts Workshop is perfect for getting those creative juices flowing. Why not try some pottery painting?

South Mill Arts is the place for live shows, including Alice in Wonderland the Musical and The Amazing Bubble Man.

Keep up to date

For all the latest town centre news and information, visit discoverstortford.co.uk and follow us on social media.

Any questions? Email mads@bishopsstortfordbid.co.uk ALL PICTURES COURTESY BID/JJD MEDIA EXCEPT TOP RIGHT: SOUTH STREET PANTRY

Keep up to date with all the latest news: @DiscoverStortford

@StortfordBID

@DiscoverStortford

www.discoverstortford.co.uk axis magazine 17

BRIEFING

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM ASHBOURNE INSURANCE

Why an experienced broker can beat an online comparison site sion, 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 not only compound your misery but also your costs.

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.

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

18 axis magazine

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 that treasured personal posses-

Extra level of comfort

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.

This Half Term get ready for take off!

Explore the fascinating story of the first 100 years of the RAF. Debate the future, test your flying skills, be amazed by stories of bravery, love and loss. Catch up with friends in our café and restaurant. Families will love our themed outdoor play area.

We’re open daily from 10.00am. Entry is free.

rafmuseum.org/london

020 8205 2266

london@rafmuseum.org The Royal Air Force Museum London, Grahame Park Way, Colindale, NW9 5LL

Registered charity no. 1197541

KD Theatre Productions in association with Harlow Playhouse present

A Swashbuckling Pantomime Adventure The Fabulous Fanny Galore As ‘Pirate Fanny’

Harlow’s Very Own Ben Parsley As ‘Silly Billy Bones’

Fri 29th March – Wed 3rd April 2024 www.harlowplayhouse.co.uk | 01279 431 945

WHAT’S ON

THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO VISIT

Get ready for take-off this half term at RAF Museum Visitors can experience the thrilling stories of the RAF in new and exciting ways this month through a series of theatre shows and comic book workshops.

The museum, which is in Colindale, north-west London, is holding a series of events during February.

The first of these new February events is called Rations, Ascent and Far Away!

It is an interactive one-hour show that will entertain and educate everyone on three significant events of the modern RAF story.

Visitors will learn all about the Berlin Airlift, Operation Black Buck and ‘Taffy’ Holden’s accidental Lightning take-off. Just how do you accidentally take off in a 40,000lb supersonic aircraft?

Get a ticket to the show and find out!

This event runs from Saturday 10th to Tuesday 13th February.

Through Adversity… and Beyond! is another new event and it runs from Thursday 15th to Sunday 18th February.

In this event you will meet Astra, the RAF Museum’s very own

time-travelling hero.

Astra has heard that RAF founder Hugh Trenchard’s pivotal flying lesson has been cancelled.

Throughout this interactive one hour show, Astra travels back in time to guide Hugh through key events in the past to ensure the RAF’s creation and survival.

Both events take place in Hangar 4 (The Dermot Boyle Wing) at 11am, 1pm and 2.30pm on the days mentioned and cost £5 for children, £7.50 for adults and £22.50 for a family (2+2).

Two new permanent exhibitions have just been opened: Strike Hard, Strike Sure: Bomber Command 1939-1945; and Higher, Faster, Further – The RAF 1919-1939; which are located in Hangars 3 and 5.

In all, there are six hangars full of exhibits, an art gallery, an outdoor playground area and a series of family trails and activities, including one which allows you to fly a virtual drone.

There are also some amazing experiences available for a small charge, including the chance to ‘fly’ with the Red Arrows in a 4D

theatre; sit in a Spitfire and see what it’s like to fly a Typhoon Jet in a state-of-the-art simulator.

All in all the museum offers a fun, entertaining day out for all the family, whatever the weather.

Entry is free and it is open from 10am.

The RAF Museum is in Grahame Park Way, Colindale NW9 5LL. Call 020 8205 2266 or visit rafmuseum.org/London for more information and to book your timed free entry.

Gardens to open for snowdrop days Snowdrops herald the coming of Spring and we have some great venues on our doorstep that are the perfect place to enjoy these flowers and contemplate the advent of warmer weather.

Myddelton House Gardens in Bulls Cross, Enfield; Benington Lordship Gardens between Ware and Stevenage and The Gibberd Garden at Old Harlow will all be open to visitors during February.

Myddelton House Gardens

are free to enter though car parking charges (£2.80) apply.

The gardens are open seven days from 10am to 4pm. Find out more at visitleevalley.co.uk.

Benington Lordship will be open

from Saturday 3rd to Sunday 25th February to view the snowdrops, no booking necessary. Adults £8 (£9 on Sundays), children under 16 £4, under 3s free. Find out more at beningtonlordship.co.uk.

The Gibberd Garden will be open

for its snowdrops and hellebores days on Sundays 11th, 18th and 25th from 12-4pm and on Wednesdays 14th and 21st from 2-4pm.

Admission is £6 for adults, £5 concessions, £1 children aged 5-16, under-5s free.

Visit thegibberdgarden.co.uk for more information.

Cold water swimming Ware Priory Lido is continuing to offer cold water swimming throughout February after the success of its initial launch over the winter. You can buy a monthly pass to swim as much as you wish for £35 or book single sessions.

Sessions are available on Thursday and Friday from 8-11am and Sunday mornings from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

Book at warepriorylido.co.uk. axis magazine 21

HALF-TERM AND BEYOND!

EXCITING SCIENCE SHOW Sunday 18th February, 11.30am & 2.30pm Tickets: £15

G SHOW ON SUNDAY 3rd MARCH COME TO WARE PRIORY WEDDIN

CARTOON CIRCUS

Wednesday 21st February, 11am & 2pm Tickets: £13.50

JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW Friday 1st March, 7.30pm Tickets: £28

BOX OFFICE: 01707 645005

Ware Priory, High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9AL Tel 01920 460316 www.warepriory.co.uk

WYLLYOTTS THEATRE, WYLLYOTTS PLACE, DARKES LANE, POTTERS BAR EN6 2HZ

www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

warepriory

@ware_priory

February events @

Dinosaur Adventure Live

Direct from London’s Adelphi Theatre

Sunday 18 February, 2pm and 4.30pm

Saturday 17 February, 7.30pm

An Evening with Jeff Stelling Hosted by Bianca Westwood Sky Sports Soccer Saturday presenter since 1994!

Thursday 22 February, 7.30pm thespotlightvenue.com 01992 441946 (Monday-Friday 10am-2pm)

Trouble on Volcano Island Roarsome! Meet the dinos!

Rave On

The 50s and 60s musical sensation sweeping the nation!

Wednesday 21 February, 1pm and 6pm

Why not enjoy a relaxing pre-show drink and a slice of our delicious...

Saturday 24 February, 7.30pm Doors and bar open 1 hour prior to event start.

The Spotlight, High Street, Hoddesdon, Herts, EN11 8BE 22 axis magazine

Pop Princesses Children’s pop concert!

AUTHENTIC STONE BAKED

Italian Pizza SP231096

Legend – The Music of Bob Marley

WHAT’S ON

At the movies: Five new films to see or book up now Argylle (12A) Now showing

Elly Conway, an introverted spy novelist who rarely leaves her home, is drawn into the real world of espionage when the plots of her books get a little too close to the activities of a sinister underground syndicate. When Aiden, a spy, shows up to save her (he says) from being either kidnapped or killed, Elly and her beloved cat Alfie are plunged into a covert world where no-one, and nothing, is what it seems.

Stars Sofia Boutella, Bryce Dallas Howard, Dua Lipa, Henry Cavill and Sam Rockwell.

Migration (U) Now showing

Family animation in which Mack is an adventure-loathing duck who does not intend to leave his New England pond anytime soon. However, his more adventurous wife, Pam, convinces him to head south for the winter so they head off for an adventure

Migration promises family fun for the half term while Dune 2 is set to get March off to a blockbuster beginning

that doesn’t exactly go to plan but leads to them having the time of their lives. Voices include David Mitchell and Danny DeVito.

Bob Marley: One Love (TBC) Out on Wednesday 14th February

A look at the life of the legendary reggae musician, starring Kingsley Ben-Adir, whose casting as Bob Marley was influenced and approved by the late singer’s son, Ziggy Marley.

Wicked Little Letters (15) Out on Friday 23rd February

When people in Littlehampton, including the very conservative Edith, begin to receive letters full of unintentionally hilarious profanities, Irish migrant Rose is soon charged with the crime. Suspecting that something is amiss however, the town’s women investigate… A superb cast includes Jessie Buckley, Olivia Colman, Timothy Spall,

Eileen Atkins and Gemma Jones.

Dune: Part Two (TBC) Out on Friday 1st March

Denis Villeneuve follows up his jaw-droppingly brilliant first part of Frank Herbert’s epic science fiction story Dune, featuring Florence Pugh, Timothée Chalamet (fresh from the title role in Wonka), Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem and Christopher Walken.

PICK OF THE ARTS

Double Acts by HDOS

Celebrating Lincoln

You’re Bard!

HDOS, Hertford Dramatic and Operatic Society, have a new show at their Studio Theatre this month. Double Acts is written by John Finnemore, writer of Cabin Pressure and star of Miranda, and was originally a series of radio comedies produced for BBC Radio 4.

Each episode features only two main speaking parts and is a self-contained play. Three of these episodes presented as one act plays will make up what promises to be a hilarious evening of comedy. The show runs from Wednesday 14th to Saturday 17th February at the theatre at Bentley House in Pegs Lane, Hertford and curtain up is at 7.45pm. Tickets are £13 and can be bought from Ticketsource via hdos.org.uk.

This month the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s birthday by dedicating a concert to the work of American composers. Hosted by UH Arts + Culture, the concert will also honour LGBTQ+ History Month by exploring the work of Leonard Bernstein, whose bisexuality was well known, opening and closing with Bernstein’s lively and popular overture to Candide and his Symphony No.2: The Age of Anxiety, scored for piano and orchestra.

It takes place on Sunday 11th February at 4pm at the 450-seater Weston Auditorium on the de Havilland campus at the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield. Tickets are £15, concessions £12 from uharts.co.uk.

Think you have seen Shakespeare performed in every way possible? Think again! You’re Bard! is a show coming to The Spotlight in Hoddesdon on Friday 1st March in which four actors are ready to play every part in any one of four Shakespeare plays – in the style you request. You, the audience, decide everything – from the play to the performance style – and the actors must respond to your demands. This hilarious and unpredictable new show has been getting rave reviews and features actors whose past experience includes the RSC, Bristol Old Vic, Cheltenham Everyman, Dubai and the West End. Tickets start at £20 from thespotlightvenue.com or by calling 01992 441946. axis magazine 23

This February Half Term Town Square, Stevenage

Saturday 17 February 2024 11am - 3:30pm

Be entertained by our lip heads!

Along with:

• Free Face Painting • Free Arts & Crafts • Take a photo on our Selfie-Bench • Children’s Characters • Purchase gifts for your loved ones from our Market Traders

Follow us for more info and to keep up to date: @lovestevenagetc lovestevenagetc

lovestevenagetc www.stevenagetowncentre.com

FOOD & DRINK

SUPPORTING LOCAL RESTAURANTS

Baar Baar brings new concept to Hertford

Crepes on menu at Tilly’s Gelato

Krish Nagari at Baar Baar, which is bringing something different to Hertfordshire with its multi-cuisine menus

Baar Baar, which has opened in the building formerly home to Sloppy’s in Old Cross, Hertford, is a new concept in dining – a multi-cuisine sports bar and restaurant.

Whilst offering the opportunity to watch the latest sporting events live on five TV screens placed around the bar, the venue is also a restaurant in which families are encouraged to come along and choose from a wide-ranging menu offering different types of food.

Baar Baar is the latest opening from brothers Deepak and Krish Nagari, who have been gradually building up a series of eateries across London. This is their first venture in Hertfordshire – and it is certainly offering something different.

The brothers, who both have a background in IT, decided pre-Covid that they fancied setting up a hospitality business to indulge their joint passion for great food and drink, and began with some pop-up restaurants in India.

After returning to England, they set up an Indian restaurant in Wembley and went on to found another company, BrandBae, which currently has 15 restaurant franchises around London.

Other successful openings they have launched include a rooftop bar and restaurant called Curry Up Camden in, you guessed it – Camden, and the very popular Meat the Vegan vegan restaurant in Camden’s famous Stables Market, which has piloted the multi-cuisine idea.

So, back to Baar Baar! The name means Again and Again in Hindi, as well as being an obvious play on the word ‘bar’.

The brothers have completely refurbished the former Sloppy’s premises which Deepak said they were originally planning to use for an Indian restaurant. But such has been the success of the multi-cuisine concept at Meat the Vegan that they have decided to extend it to their latest opening.

So if members of your family all like different foods, they should all be able to have what

they want at Baar Baar – with menus including a combination of Oriental, Mexican, American, Caribbean and signature Indian dishes.

This month, Baar Baar is offering a fabulous 20 per cent off your bill for Axis readers if you phone ahead to book a table and cut out and take in their advert over the page.

During Valentine’s week it is also running a special three-course meal offer with a bottle of Prosecco for £39.90 per person.

Other initiatives to look out for in the future include bottomless brunch and DJ nights.

Current opening hours are: Monday and Tuesday 5-10pm (just bar and sports, kitchen closed); Wednesday and Thursday 12noon to 11pm; Friday and Saturday 12noon to midnight; Sunday 12noon to 10pm. Food is served Wednesday to Sunday.

Baar Baar 11 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RE 01992 916865

Tilly’s Gelato in Hertford has launched a new crepe counter offering fresh on-the-go crepes, with a choice of toppings including Nutella and strawberry; lemon and sugar; and biscoff.

All crepes are served in crepe cones, enabling you to take them away or eat them in, and are made from organic milk, butter and fairtrade eggs from local suppliers.

Tilly’s Gelato is at 14 Railway Street, Hertford SG14 1BG and has just reopened after a winter closure during January.

Enjoy a roast at George IV

George IV all set for Valentine’s and Mother’s Day The George IV in Great Amwell is a romantic place to go for Valentine’s Day and this year the country pub is suggesting signature cocktails to start your evening, and has added some great sharing dishes to its regular a la carte menu for Wednesday 14th February.

Then for Mother’s Day on Sunday 10th March you can treat your mum to a three-course meal for £39.95 per person or £19.95 for children. Call 01920 870039 to book your table. axis magazine 25

DINING OUT GUIDE

ADVERTISEMENT LISTINGS

THE GRANDISON Pub & Dining

VODINA Turkish

PIRCIO Pub & Dining

This dog-friendly country pub is surrounded by countryside and offers fresh, home-cooked fare using seasonal ingredients and local suppliers wherever possible. A selection of staple pub classics and changing seasonal dishes keep the menu fresh and inviting all year round.

The beers at this free house are well-kept and refreshing and the wines varied and affordable.

A weekday set menu, available Tuesday to Friday at lunch and Tuesday to Thursday at dinner offers two courses for £12.95 and three for £15.95.

Opened in November 2023, Vodina is a new Turkish restaurant and cocktail bar that is a welcome addition to the dining scene in Ware.

The stylish, refurbished, family-friendly restaurant is smart, warm and welcoming and can seat 60 at a time, with room for both couples and larger groups. The main menu is available at all sittings and features traditional Turkish cuisine, alongside set menus for two or four people. There is also a £12.95 lunch menu which is available from 12-3pm. Vodina is open seven days a week from 12noon to 10pm.

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.

18 Bury Lane, Bramfield SG14 2QL / 01992 554077 www.grandisonpub.com

21-22 Tudor Square, Ware SG12 9XF / 01920 468866 www.vodinarestaurant.co.uk

Drill Hall, Market Square Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU 01279 898181 / www.pirciorestaurant.com

Now open in Hertford!

✁

SPECIAL OPENING OFFER FOR AXIS READERS

VALENTINES WEEK

Bring this advert to get 20% off your bill during February 2024

3-course meal with a bottle of Prosecco for just £39.90 per person

Table must be reserved by phone

SU M N B N O O OO D TH W AY E F K 10 R’S OR TH D M AY A RC H

Enjoy a romantic meal this Valentine’s Day at the Golden Fleece.

Book your table today!

20 Green End, Braughing, Hertfordshire SG11 2PG

11 OLD CROSS, HERTFORD SG14 1RE

01992 916865 | baarbaar.co.uk 26 axis magazine

DINING OUT GUIDE

ADVERTISEMENT LISTINGS

THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining

BAAN THITIYA Thai

THE GOLDEN FLEECE Pub & Dining

Nestled in the picturesque village of Great Amwell, The George IV offers exceptional restaurant cuisine within a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Oliver and his team serve a menu of seasonal and fresh small and large sharing plates.

The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event. Whether it is an intimate wedding, baby shower, birthday or a special anniversary, there is a variety of dining options to suit any occasion in the private dining room and courtyard.

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

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.

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

102 London Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3DS 01279 658575 www.baan-thitiya.com

20 Green End, Braughing SG11 2PG 01920 823555 www.goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk

SHISHBOURNE Turkish

THE DUSTY MILLER Country Pub

RONI’S Fine Dining

Shishbourne is a Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant on Broxbourne High Road which is open seven days a week and offers a full menu all day, now including breakfast from 8am to 4pm. It is plush and luxurious with an unforgettable Instagrammable interior, great cocktails and an a la carte menu filled with Turkish classics. It also offers a bottomless dinner option from 6pm Monday to Thursday and a twocourse lunch menu from 12-3.30pm Monday to Friday. There is live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings too.

The Dusty Miller is a country pub and casual dining venue just outside Harlow, surrounded by countryside and close to the river. It serves freshly-cooked pub food, including a pie of the day and other pub classics, together with a good selection of gluten-free and vegan dishes.

Thursday night is Steak Night with two steaks and a bottle of wine for £50. The Dusty Miller is open from 12noon to 11pm Tuesday to Saturday and from 12noon to 6.30pm on Sunday when a traditional roast is available.

Book now for Valentine’s and Mother’s Day.

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.

27 High Road, Broxbourne EN10 7HX 01992 313198 www.shishbourne.co.uk

Burnt Mill Lane, Harlow CM20 2QS 01279 424180 www.dustymillerharlow.co.uk

16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856 www.ronisrestaurant.co.uk axis magazine 27

9-13 Parliament Square n Hertford n SG14 1EX

EXPECT MORE n FROM YOUR n ESTATE AGENT

CELEBRATING

For Sale: Bishops Road, Tewin Wood £1,375,000 A detached four-bedroom family home sitting in a plot of approximately a third of an acre. Recently refurbished but scope to further improve and extend, subject to planning.

For Sale: London Road, Hertford Heath £950,000 A superb family home that has been completely re-built to now offer over 2,350 sq ft of accommodation. No expense has been spared to create this detached unique home.

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

01992 721 321 n www.thomas-childs.com