Axis magazine June 2021 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally June 2021

INSIDE: YOUR SUMMER STARTS HERE IN THE NEWS

We keep you up to date on the major local stories

SHOPPING

All you need to know as town centres bounce back

PROPERTY

The new development marrying eco with tech

WHAT’S ON

The best events, arts and films to enjoy this month

FOOD & DRINK

The new restaurant that waited six months to open

Your leading high quality local news magazine since 2003

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WELCOME

JUNE 2021 | NO. 221

What’s in this issue ABOUT AXIS

05 y More businesses open up Hospitality and weddings sectors gear up for the summer ahead

08 y The winners revealed Find out who won what in this year’s Love Hertford Awards

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

20-24 y Summer starts here Discover the best forthcoming events, arts and films to see this month

25-27 y Food & drink The Old Bell in Sawbridgeworth gets a fresh new look

AXIS HAS A NEW ADDRESS We have moved to Lyric House, 6b St Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1JA Front cover images (clockwise from top) Bill Clarke’s quirky pictures of Hertford are on show at Hertford Museum (p23); Scenes from three new films out this month – Felix and the Hidden Treasure, Peter Rabbit 2 and Cruella; Food at Buffalo Joe’s in Bishop’s Stortford (p25); The new Sixth Form Learning Centre at Bishop’s Stortford College (p7); Cars at the Castle on Sunday 6th June (p21).

For just £25 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

Indoor dining allowed again as leisure venues start to reopen The next milestone on the Government’s roadmap to reopening the country passed in May with the the leisure and hospitality industries the most affected.

From 17th May cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars were once more allowed to serve customers indoors (subject to social distancing measures), giving diners a welcome opportunity to eat indoors during a month that saw constant showers and heavy rainfall.

Arts venues including galleries, theatres and other performance venues, cinemas, museums and historic properties were also permitted to reopen.

Bishop’s Stortford, Hertford and Ware museums are all now open with Much Hadham’s Forge Museum set to reopen in June.

The Lowewood in Broxbourne however, recently rescued from the threat of closure, will not now open until 17th July while the charitable trust set up to run it ensures that all the administrative and regulatory tasks have been

successfully completed.

The majority of our local theatres have now opened again, although the current continued need for social distancing means they are not yet able to operate at full capacity.

Harlow Playhouse, Potters Bar’s Wyllyotts Theatre and Bishop’s Stortford’s South Mill Arts have all opened their doors again. They each have limited programming until September but do keep up to date by checking on their websites.

Hertford Theatre will close for redevelopment works after 7th June leaving the town without the popular venue until Spring 2023.

Broxbourne Council has previously said that it would not be able to reopen its Spotlight Theatre in Hoddesdon until it is financially viable to do so.

A spokesperson confirmed in May that this was still likely to be in the autumn although they added the council will make its decision “once the requirements for social distancing are known and understood”.

Weddings industry can say ‘I do’ again The weddings industry is another that has been hit hard by the pandemic, but weddings of up to 30 people are now allowed to take place (the same number also applies to funerals).

It is hoped attendance limits on both will be lifted completely on 21st June if the next phase of

unlocking goes ahead on time.

Local weddings businesses are now gearing up to get busy again, as typified by Hoddesdonbased mother of the bride specialist Mary’s of Enfield.

Co-owner Tracy Forrest is pictured above preparing to welcome back customers.

At last: ‘Social distancing’ road closures are due to end – in some areas at least Residents and businesses are being asked for their opinion on whether it is time to scrap some of the safety measures put in place in high streets during the pandemic.

Hertfordshire County Council’s public health team says that due to decreasing case numbers and increasing levels of vaccination, outdoor social distancing measures that have, for example, seen some traffic lanes in town centres converted to pedestrian use only, are no longer required.

Following consultation with local councillors in five towns across the county, the decision has been made to completely remove restrictions in Ware and Bishop’s Stortford town centres, as well as Hatfield Road in St Albans, Knebworth and Radlett.

The main shopping street in Bishop’s Stortford (South Street – Potter Street) was due to be reopened to traffic and on-street parking bays reinstated in the first week of June.

And in Ware, the one-way traffic system which currently restricts motorists to travelling south down High Street will be removed on Tuesday 8th and Wednesday 9th June.

However, the county council says that there has been a good level of support in other areas for the measures, and that it has been asked to consider retaining them for longer.

While not essential for public health reasons, some believe they could improve the environment and trading conditions in town

The High Street closure in Ware is set to be ended

centres during the economic recovery from the pandemic.

These include Station Road in Bishop’s Stortford, plus Hertford and Welwyn town centres.

A consultation began on 24th May and is open for four weeks after which further changes could be made or it could be decided that

the measures should remain in place for another 18 months.

In Hertford, the area under consultation includes the closure of Fore Street between Parliament Square and Market Place.

Have your say via the county council’s website at hertfordshire. gov.uk/highstreetrecovery. axis magazine 5

BRIEFING: ELECTIONS 2021

David Lloyd wins third term as PCC

County stays Tory but opposition make inroads and unseat leader Whilst it would have taken a seismic political upset to stop the Conservatives holding on to power at Hertfordshire County Council, there was still some drama, with the council leader losing his seat, the Liberal Democrats making notable gains and the Green Party having a councillor elected for just the third time ever, and for the first time in an East Herts-based seat.

The results continued a trend that began emerging in the East Herts District Council election of 2019, with that previously impregnable Tory fortress showing signs of coming under attack.

With all 78 seats up for election, the Lib Dems gained five seats, including taking the notable scalp of Conservative council leader David Williams in Harpenden.

Mr Williams had been an unusually high-profile county council leader, heading up the public campaign to change local government structure in the county in favour of one unitary authority, which would lead, if approved, to the abolition of 10 district and borough councils.

The new council leader is Richard Roberts, a Conservative who represents Kings Langley. In a statement following his selection as leader, he said he was “excited to embark on this incredible journey leading the county council in the next chapter.” He didn’t mention the unitary authority plan.

The Green Party was also able to celebrate the election of Ben

Richard Roberts is the new leader of the county council

Crystall in Hertford All Saints, taking a Conservative seat.

The make-up of the county council (with change in seats) is now: Conservative 46 (-3) Liberal Democrats 23 (+5) Labour 7 (-2) Independent 1 (-1) Green Party 1 (+1).

Broxbourne stays blue The near one-party-state that is Broxbourne continues to be utterly dominated by the Conservative party. The borough council saw 10 of its 30 seats being contested and the Tories won 9 of them, the sole Labour victory coming in Waltham Cross. The make-up of the council is now: Conservative 27 (no change) Labour 3 (+1) Unaligned 0 (-1).

In the Police and Crime Commissioner election for Hertfordshire, Conservative David Lloyd was elected for the third time – he remains the only person to have held the role since its inception in 2012.

Mr Lloyd won 48.5% of first preference votes, with Liberal Democrat Sam North second with 27.3% and Labour’s Philip Ross third. PCC elections require second preferences to be indicated when voting and these are taken into account if no candidate wins 50% in the first ballot.

Mr Lloyd was subsequently elected when second preference votes were tallied.

David Lloyd

Labour ousted in Harlow

Neighbourhood plans adopted in Hertford

One area where there was a change of power was in Harlow where the hugely increased majority earned by its Tory MP Robert Halfon at the 2019 General Election was followed by a major swing to his party in the local elections.

Some 13 of the 33 seats on Harlow District Council were up for election and the Conservatives won 12 of them, with Labour taking just one.

The change was enough to put the Tories back in power for the first time since 2012.

The make-up is now: Conservative 20 (+7) Labour 12 (-8) There is one vacant seat where a by-election will be held.

In two areas of Hertford the local electorate got an additional vote on 6th May – on whether they wanted East Herts Council to adopt neighbourhood plans which had been drawn up for their areas.

Neighbourhood plans give local communities a say in the future of where they live and work, detailing where new homes, shops and buildings should be built and what they should look like. They are drawn up by the communities themselves, with the help of council officers and planning advisors and are only adopted if a referendum votes in favour.

Residents of Sele and Bengeo wards voted overwhelmingly in favour of adoption on 6th May.

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BRIEFING

Final bid to save URC hall fails

College opens sixth form centre

A last ditch attempt to save the United Reformed Church Hall in Water Lane, Bishop’s Stortford from demolition has failed.

The hall has been bought from the church by East Herts Council which plans to demolish it as part of its redevelopment of the nearby Causeway car park which will include a cinema-led arts centre, shops, restaurants, homes and offices on the so-called Old River Lane (ORL) site.

But last month, opposition Liberal Democrats made a final attempt to save the facility.

There have been suggestions that performing arts space in the town will be inadequate after the council decided to drop its original plan to include a theatre auditorium in the new arts centre. The new centre will have no hireable spaces for community organisations, many of whom previously used the URC hall.

Lib Dem leader Mione Goldspink tabled a motion at April’s meeting of the full council suggesting that East Herts reconsider its plans to

A new Sixth Form Learning Centre which prepares students for life beyond school has been officially opened at Bishop’s Stortford College.

The co-educational independent day and boarding school takes pupils from the ages of 4-18.

Its new centre has been created from former offices which have been transformed by school interior design and installation specialists TaskSpace to provide a dedicated space for sixth form students to work collectively or independently, hold team meetings and have one to one meetings with staff. It includes quiet study areas, a conference room, a kitchenette and a gallery of College alumni.

Head of Sixth Form Katie Banks said: “The Sixth Form Learning

demolish the hall and either repair or refurbish it.

If this was not possible, she said, the council should build an equivalent hall elsewhere on the ORL site.

But Conservative Cllr Geoffrey Williamson said it was not practical to repair or refurbish the hall and proposed an amendment to the motion, which was accepted and then carried. This pledged that the council would continue to work with local groups to see if further facilities could be provided.

The council will also undertake an inventory of publicly and privately owned facilities within the town that could be used by community and arts groups as well as discuss with the county council the possibility of groups having access to facilities at state schools out of hours.

Investigations will also continue into whether cinema spaces within the Old River Lane development could be designed to allow larger capacity live performance events to be held on site.

The United Reformed Church Hall has been used by many local organisations

Governor and chair of the college’s education committee Pauline Mullender opens the new centre

Centre is designed to mimic a modern undergraduate study space or work environment. It provides an opportunity for students to collaborate on assignments or to hunker down in a quiet, calm place to get on with their A level work and independent study. It is already being well used.”

APB plants apple tree in his name Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles OBE has visited his ancestral home at Myddelton House Gardens in Enfield to plant an apple tree created in his honour. The new variety, expertly grafted by Peter Oakenfull, has been named ‘Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles’ in tribute to the brigadier’s role as president of The EA Bowles of Myddelton House Society – a charity founded in 1992 with the aim of furthering interest in the life and work of horticulturalist Edward Augustus Bowles as well as the conservation of his garden at Myddelton House.

The brigadier, who is the great-

Peter Oakenfull, Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles OBE and Myddelton Head Gardener Richard Harmes

great nephew of ‘Gussie’ Bowles, planted the tree in the new orchard at Myddelton House Gardens which is today run by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.

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axis magazine 7

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Love Hertford Awards 2021: The winners are revealed!

The Mayor of Hertford, Cllr Bob Deering, presented awards to McMullen’s, Mudlarks, Brothership and Post and Packing

Other winners, pictured here with Cllr Deering, included The Women’s Society Boutique, Highway Cycles, Albany Radio and Fred and Ginger

The winners of this year’s Love Hertford Awards were revealed at an online ceremony on Thursday 13th May. Thousands of votes were cast for 59 local businesses across 10 different categories, with the entries adjudicated by a judging panel made up of representatives from the community, including from Axis magazine. The awards are organised by Hertford Town Council. The winners were: Pub or Restaurant Winner: The White Lion Finalists: Lussmanns Fish & Grill; Old Cross Tavern Café or Fast Food Winner: Hertford Cake Co Finalists: Mudlarks Garden Café; Giambrones Italian Deli Hair and Beauty Winner: Fred and Ginger Finalists: The Beauty Room; The Skull Club Health and Wellbeing Winner: The Secret Space Finalists: Highway Cycles; Replenish Refill 8 axis magazine

The Mayor handing over awards to The White Lion, Hertford Cake Co and Mind the Gap

Fashion Winner: The Women’s Society Boutique Finalists: Frankie and Olive; Mint of Hertford

Professional Services Winner: Post and Packing Finalists: Chapter79 (formerly Lance James the Jewellers); Cariad Marketing

Home and Interiors Winner: Albany Radio Finalists: Messages; Visp Bathrooms

Specialist Retailer Winner: Highway Cycles Finalists: Concord Trophies and Sportswear; UOE Post Office

Food and Drink Retailers Winner: Mind the Gap Finalists: Cavavin The Wine Shop; G Pickett of Hertford

Community and Voluntary The judges unveiled a surprise change from tradition of choosing a single winner though when it came to this category.

In a well-received move, they decided to award the prize jointly to all three shortlisted finalists, because of the enormous contribution each made during the challenging year of the pandemic.

The three joint winners are McMullen and Sons, Mudlarks Garden Café and Brothership.

Each received a high number of votes and the judges decided that they had all gone far and beyond what could have been expected in terms of their contribution to the community during the most difficult of years.

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SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

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Bishop’s Stortford town centre welcomes you back!

Businesses across every sector in Bishop’s Stortford’s attractive town centre are back open again and ready to serve you

Bishop’s Stortford BID urges you to support the town centre as it opens up again Following the easing of lockdown restrictions once again, it has been fantastic to see the high street busy again.

The town centre is one of the things that makes Bishop’s Stortford such a great place to live, work, shop and socialise.

With national chains, independent stores and boutiques; a wealth of hair and beauty salons; and an even greater range of coffee shops, pubs and restaurants, there is so much choice.

After an exceptionally challenging year, the businesses have fought back to reopen their doors safely and they’d love to see you. By supporting our local shops and businesses you’ll help to strengthen the local economy, protect jobs and ensure Bishop’s Stortford remains a vibrant town centre.

Indoor hospitality now open The town centre pubs, cafés and restaurants would like to thank everyone who braved the weather during the weeks when only outside eating and drinking was allowed. They are now fully open and ready to welcome up to six people or two households inside. With a diverse food scene and plenty of drinking options on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Many also have beautiful outdoor areas still in operation, so an alfresco dinner or drinks can still be enjoyed.

Leisure and entertainment are back After being closed for so long, indoor entertainment and leisure activities are now available again.

Take the opportunity to go bowling, join a gym class, catch up on the latest cinema releases or race against the clock at the escape rooms.

Indulge in some retail therapy There’s nothing like browsing

the shops and enjoying a spot of retail therapy. After months of closures, all shops have now reopened their doors in a Covid safe way.

With a fabulous range of nationals and independents in Bishop’s Stortford you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for.

Fashion, home, essentials and more are all here.

Professional Services are here for you Next time you’re looking for an estate agent, law firm, insurance broker, recruitment consultant, accountancy services or financial advice, pop into Bishop’s Stortford. There are many reputable companies on the doorstep, with experts ready to assist you.

Hair, Beauty and Health Within Bishop’s Stortford town centre you will find a choice of hairdressers, barbers, nail salons, beauticians, dentists, opticians, pharmacies, health food shops

COMING SOON: The Bishop’s Stortford gift card The Bishop’s Stortford gift card is launching later this month and will be accepted at a range of shops and services throughout the town centre.

It’s an ideal gift for any upcoming occasion – birthdays, anniversaries, Father’s Day – and a great way to encourage family and friends to shop local.

For the full list of participating businesses and to buy or top-up a gift card, go to www.bishopsstortfordbid. co.uk/giftcard.

and doctor’s surgeries. It’s never been more important to look after your health.

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

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Bishop’s Stortford BID - www.bishopsstortfordbid.co.uk 10 axis magazine

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Our care home is open for viewings

Call us on freephone 0808 223 5401 Find us online caringhomes.org/riverside-place Plaxton Way, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 7FB

Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms In-Ex Design is a family-run business with over 29 years of experience within the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom industry and is based in a flagship showroom in Broxbourne.

The showroom is now open again, restoring a sense of normality although staff had been busy during the last lockdown still working on appointment-only consultations, abiding by strict government guidelines to reflect the fact that both customer and staff safety has been the priority.

In-Ex Design serves the needs of customers by offering a wide range of styles and designs, with work including converting garages into offices and playrooms, refurbishing bathrooms and carrying out both large and small kitchen and bedroom projects.

Its long-serving team includes experienced kitchen and bathroom installers, gas fitters, electrical engineers, plasterers and floor layers. They are able to accommodate most environments and have a reputable history of quality customer care and after-sales service.

In-Ex’s team of designers can help bring your ideas to life and see them through to fruition.

Having adapted to the new normal, the Broxbourne showroom can offer virtual online tours and staff are happy to discuss your requirements using this if you prefer.

Samples of doors and surfacing can also be borrowed from the showroom if you want to see how they would look in your own home.

To have a look at what In-Ex Design can offer, please visit: www.in-exdesign.co.uk or call 01992 80 9000, or freephone 0800 9800538

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SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT

Welcome back to Hoddesdon campaign helps town to recover Love Hoddesdon, the Business Improvement District in Hoddesdon town centre, is helping the town and its businesses bounce back quickly and effectively from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Recently it has been running its Welcome back to Hoddesdon campaign via social media to encourage local residents to shop locally. This is in support of Broxbourne Council’s Shop Safe Shop Local publicity campaign.

The town’s mascot Master Henry Hoddas has been to a number of businesses to promote them as they start to reopen, whilst local businesses have also been featured in short video interviews telling their story about getting through the pandemic.

The BID is also producing a new town guide to promote the town and its facilities, particularly to new residents.

A number of businesses have successfully participated in Hertfordshire County Council’s Safe to Trade accreditation scheme, which is being trialled in Broxbourne. This scheme aims to reassure shoppers and visitors that the business is trading in accordance with all the Covid-19 requirements.

The Med in Hoddesdon Much work has also taken place with local pubs, restaurants and cafés to secure pavement licences so they could offer outside dining in accordance with Government guidelines during April and May. Around 20 premises, including all the pubs and most of the restaurants and cafés are offering

Alfresco dining is here to stay in Hoddesdon whilst planning is currently underway to ensure popular events such as the Vintage and Classic Car Day and business networking breakfasts can take place

this, creating a Mediterranean feel to the town, which has proved very popular with the public, particularly when the sun is shining.

Unfortunately, the weather has not been kind to them over recent weeks, but even though people can now eat indoors, this alfresco dining experience is likely to become an established part of the town’s offer.

Real hope for events Hoddesdon’s well-established programme of events is also starting to develop again. Whilst certain restrictions were still in place, a low scale marking of the town’s traditional May Fair and

Heritage Day was held in late May, with a DJ playing themed music to mark the anniversary of VE day, whilst parts of the town were decorated with bunting.

Provided social distancing requirements are removed in late June, it is then hoped to deliver, in conjunction with Broxbourne Council, the return of the Vintage and Classic Car Day in July, as well as a new food and drink event and the popular Give Your Town the Runaround in September.

Looking further ahead, the BID team are planning the return of the charter fair in October and the Hoddesdon Loves Christmas event in November. Work is also

underway with local churches to organise a Find the Rainbow trail in the town during July and August, and discussions are taking place about introducing a monthly vintage and craft fair.

Love Hoddesdon is looking to relaunch its popular business networking breakfasts as soon as restrictions will allow too.

BID manager Tony Cox said: “With the lifting of restrictions on 17th May, over 90% of the town’s businesses were open and trading again, including several new businesses. This compares very favourably with many neighbouring towns. So why not pay us a visit and enjoy what Hoddesdon has to offer!”

Welcome back to Hoddesdon Help businesses survive and thrive

axis magazine 13

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SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Busylizzy pregnancy and post-natal classes to launch this month Local mum Joanna Gee launches her new Busylizzy pregnancy and post-natal fitness classes for mums and mums-to-be living in and around Hertford this month.

The launch has been a year in the making after the Covid lockdown thwarted her plans to start the business in 2020.

Joanna experienced Busylizzy for herself when her daughter Florence was born. During her time on maternity leave, she made new friends and enjoyed a range of activities and classes.

She decided she wanted to create something similar for other mums and a desire for a more flexible working life led to her purchasing the Herts territory from Busylizzy’s franchise team.

She said: “Mums-to-be and new parents have missed out on so much over the past year so I’m really excited to offer the chance for them to take part in sessions that will boost physical and mental wellbeing for them and

their little ones, as well as helping them make friends and a new network of social support.”

Busylizzy is a club which offers its members fun and friendly pregnancy and postnatal fitness classes and interactive baby classes. Classes include pregnancy Pilates, postnatal fitness, buggy fitness, bootcamp, Pilates, yoga, baby massage and baby music.

The weekly classes can be booked in advance or on the day via an app or online and cancelled up to two hours before a session if something unexpected happens.

Classes can even be completed online if necessary.

Venues being used in Hertford include The Mill Bridge Rooms, The Mill House and Mill Stream Studio, with outdoor classes take place on Hartham Common.

For more information visit busylizzy.co.uk/hertford where you can also book a free class, call 01992 874664 or email hertford@busylizzy.co.uk.

Joanna Gee (pictured bottom right) launches Busylizzy in Hertford

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TAXING MATTERS

SPONSORED CONTENT

How you can claim tax relief for being asked to work from home

Stuart Everett of Hertford accountants Meyer Williams on cutting your tax bill HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed it is accepting tax relief claims for working from home due to coronavirus during 2021/22.

More than 550,000 employed workers have already claimed and are benefitting from the tax relief.

HMRC say that if employed workers were told to work at home by their employer because of coronavirus and, as a result, their household costs have increased, they are eligible to claim the working from home tax relief. It is quick and easy to claim via HMRC’s online portal.

HMRC have already received more than three million claims for the 2020/21 tax year.

HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services has said: “Half a million people have already reduced their Income Tax this year by up to £125, by

If you have been working from home during the pandemic you may be entitled to claim tax relief

claiming tax relief on their working from home expenses.

“We want everyone who’s eligible to benefit, so we’ve made it quick and easy to do online. Check if you are eligible and apply at Gov.uk by searching ‘working from home tax relief’.”

HMRC is apparently continuing to help and support people affected by the pandemic (they’ll never replace the NHS though).

How the tax relief works From 6th April 2020, the amount employers have been able to pay tax-free without employees having to provide evidence of an increased bill is up to £6 a week. If you have not received this working from home expenses payment direct from your employer, you should apply to receive the tax relief direct from HMRC. Eligible taxpayers can claim tax

relief based on the rate at which they pay tax. For example, if an employed worker pays the 20% basic rate of tax and claims tax relief on £6 a week, they will receive £1.20 a week in tax relief (20% of £6 a week) towards the cost of their household bills.

Higher rate taxpayers would receive £2.40 a week (40% of £6 a week). Over the course of the year, this could mean you can reduce the tax they pay by £62.40 or £124.80, respectively.

To check if you are eligible for the tax relief for working from home, or if you wish to apply, you can do so directly via Gov.uk. Once your application has been approved, the online portal will adjust your tax code for the 2021/22 tax year. You will then receive the tax relief directly through your salary until March 2022.

If you were required to work

RELIABLE, APPROACHABLE AND PROACTIVE ACCOUNTANTS TO HELP YOU SUCCEED IN BUSINESS & IN LIFE Audit & Accountancy | Business Development | Personal Finances Personal & Corporate Tax | Tax Planning | Corporate Finance | Business Start-ups

Call or email Stephanie to arrange an appointment for an informal chat with one of our directors about your business or financial affairs

Stag House, Old London Road, Hertford, Herts SG13 7LA 01992 550721 | www.meyerwilliams.com | stephanie@meyerwilliams.com 16 axis magazine

from home last year but did not claim for the tax relief, don’t worry you have not missed out; HMRC will accept backdated claims for up to four years. You would then receive a lump sum payment for any successful backdated claims.

HMRC are quick to point out that “using an accountant to apply for the working from home tax relief, and other similar schemes could result in you paying unnecessary fees.”

Using the Gov.uk service is apparently quick and free, and you will receive 100% of the tax relief that is due. Us accountants are not able to use the online portal to apply for the relief on a taxpayer’s behalf!

Oh well, at least we still can include the appropriate claim in your self-assessment tax return.

Phone if you need help with that…

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT

Dobsons’ bathroom showroom is awards finalist Hertfordshire-based family firm Dobsons has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Bathroom Showroom of the Year category of the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards.

The kbbreview – the bathroom, bedroom and kitchen industry’s leading trade magazine – has been running these national awards for the past 27 years.

They celebrate the UK’s very best retailers, designers and manufacturers in the kitchen and bathroom industry.

Reaching the final in such an uncertain year has made Dobsons’ achievement even greater. In fact, the way companies have coped with the pandemic, such as implementing Covid-safe measures in their showrooms, is included in the judging criteria for the 2021 awards.

Director Helen Dobson is obviously delighted: “The kbbreview awards are among the most prestigious in the bathroom

and kitchen industry, so we are thrilled to make it to the finals.

“We specialise in luxury bathrooms, which means the way we display our products is of paramount importance.

“So to have this endorsement from industry specialists is wonderful.”

The winners will be announced at a gala evening which, if all goes according to plan, will take place in Liverpool on 15th September.

Dobsons’ bathroom and kitchen showroom in Cheshunt has recently reopened after the latest lockdown.

Covid-safe measures are in place which means visits are by appointment only.

Appointments can be booked online at dobsonshome.com or by calling 01992 623066.

Dobsons 128 Turners Hill, Cheshunt EN8 9BN 01992 623066 dobsonshome.com

The Dobsons team pictured in the showroom

Kitchens Bathrooms Windows & Doors Glazed Extensions

• Browse our new brochure www.dobsonshome.com

• Visit our inspirational showroom

128 Turners Hill, Cheshunt, EN8 9BN

• Talk to our designers 01992 623066

axis magazine 17

PROPERTY

Waterford Wick: a new green development on the edge of Hertford

Top: These CGIs show an aerial view of the Waterford Wick layout and the back of one of the homes. Above: High specification interiors

An exclusive development of net-zero carbon homes on the edge of Hertford has just been launched.

Waterford Wick in Sacombe Road includes just eight detached houses, all designed to a high environmental standard with a wide variety of eco-features, proving that sustainability and luxury can go hand in hand.

It has been designed to meet the maximum five star rating under the Home Quality Mark – the first time nationally that a small development by a niche developer has achieved this.

Waterford Wick is on the edge of Waterford Heath nature reserve and is being developed by Hertford-based Heritage Estate Group. It has been designed using the latest in renewable technology, innovative design and state of the art construction techniques.

Eco features include highly efficient heat pumps, photovoltaic 18 axis magazine

solar panels, rainwater recycling, superior sound insulation, waste water heat recovery systems and advanced ventilation.

The development is net-zero carbon with all carbon emissions from the construction phases offset, as well as 95% of demolition and construction waste diverted from landfill.

The homes will all have an A-rated Energy Performance Certificate – the most efficient – which will lead to low utility bills for residents.

These eight stunning homes can now be bought off plan. They are available in a range of three and four bedroom layouts, each with its own garden, parking and electric vehicle charging points.

High spec interiors Interior spaces are light and airy with a high quality specification that includes low energy lighting and smart home technology. The hub of each home is the flexible open plan kitchen and dining area

WHAT IS THE HOME QUALITY MARK? The Home Quality Mark is a national certification scheme that has been introduced to give homebuyers confidence that they are choosing a well-built, highly sustainable and environmentallyfriendly home that is built to significantly exceed the current minimum building standards. The assessment is made by independent experts taking into account criteria such as running costs, how the home will benefit the health and wellbeing of its residents and its environmental footprint. The HQM has been developed by BRE, the UK’s leading building science centre.

with bifold doors to the garden.

The development also has sweeping views of the nature reserve and surrounding fields.

Stuart Smart from Heritage Estate Group said: “Our vision for Waterford Wick was to create a collection of premium homes that had as little environmental impact as possible, without compromising on style and luxury. This is a unique location on the edge of a nature reserve and surrounded by countryside, so we wanted the development to sit lightly in the environment, enhancing local ecology, reducing energy usage and boosting the wellbeing of residents. We are proud this has been achieved and recognised with the five-star Home Quality Mark.”

The homes at Waterford Wick are available from £850,000.

For further information, visit waterfordwick.co.uk or call agent Johnson & Co on 01992 364005.

PROPERTY

SPONSORED CONTENT

Rental market showing signs of growth again after Covid uncertainty NIGEL LOMAS

Lisa Ward of SageWard Residential Lettings gives an update on renting The rental market has been through some uncertain and strained times over the past year but thankfully we now seem to be at a point of stabilising.

The impact of Covid has seen that a strong demand paired with the shortage of rental properties has caused rental values to increase in our area and across the UK. The low supply of rental properties has led to many landlords being able to secure higher rents than they previously achieved.

However, in recent months, there has been a rise in landlords purchasing property as well as an increase in first-time landlords entering the buy-to-let sector.

Many have been enticed by the

All types of property are in demand in the local rental market again

stamp duty holiday and low interest rates. This is likely to continue with the extension and tapering end to the stamp duty holiday.

Because of this, we anticipate that more rental properties are likely to come forward to the rental market once more of those sales complete.

This could help keep up with the growing demand for rental accommodation in our area.

We have found that many tenants have changed their property priorities, including location preferences, in the wake of Covid. Some may have been living at home and are now looking to move out into their own properties whilst others who have already been renting are now looking for bigger accommodation to suit their new working requirements and/or outside space.

This combination means that all types of properties are in demand at this time and we are securing new tenants quickly, resulting in minimal void periods for landlords. We are certainly optimistic for the continuing growth of the rental sector and invite any landlords or tenants to contact us here at SageWard Residential Lettings to discuss the process of renting in detail.

8% plus Vat fully managed fee with a one-off set-up fee of £150 plus Vat No hidden or extra charges Unbeatable customer service 01992 504058 info@sageward.co.uk www.sageward.co.uk

MULTI AWARD-WINNING LETTING AGENCY axis magazine 19

AS SUMMER APPROACHES AND THE COUNTRY OPENS UP AGAIN, SO DO OUR SHOPS, GROUNDS, GARDENS AND THE MILLIONS OF FLOWERS WITHIN. LOOK FORWARD TO SAVOURING THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SCENTS OF SUMMER, RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP. BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW. WE CAN’T WAIT TO WELCOME YOU.

Explore the park & gardens

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WHERE THE CITY ENDS & THE COUNTRY BEGINS

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WHAT’S ON

PLACES TO GO, THINGS TO DO

Living Crafts is back at Hatfield Park for a four-day festival Living Crafts, the popular arts and crafts festival, returns to Hatfield Park for its 47th year from Thursday 17th to Sunday 20th June.

Hundreds of independent designer-makers will be showing and selling their unique work as well as offering workshops and demonstrations, providing an educational, aspirational and social experience to everyone who attends.

It is an opportunity to get handson advice from design experts as well as to buy unique, handmade arts and crafts directly from those who have designed and created them.

There is a capacity of 4,000 people on each day so advance booking is recommended.

Tickets for each day are £9 for adults, £8 for over-65s and £5 for children aged 5-15 and can be booked, along with individual workshops, at livingcrafts.co.uk.

Cars at the Castle

Follow family trails around Hertford

Cycling for fun

A free car show, Cars at the Castle, will be held in the grounds of Hertford Castle on Sunday 6th June from 12noon to 4pm.

The family-friendly event will include cars from makes such as Porsche, Ford, Triumph, Lotus, Cadillac and Toyota from down the years.

The event will be Covid-secure with a one-way system in operation among other measures.

Families in Hertford have two separate free trails to enjoy around the town this month.

Hertford Castle hosts the Enchanted Fairy Trail in its grounds until Sunday 6th June from 6.30am to 9pm.

Hertford Town Council, which has organised both trails, has again teamed up with the Secret Society of Hertford Crafters for the second one, around the town centre, which runs until Saturday

It’s National Bike Week during the first week of June and, to celebrate, Lee Valley Park has put together a list of its top five cycle routes across the park.

The routes range from five to 12 miles, covering areas including Waltham Abbey, Broxbourne, Hoddesdon and Stanstead Abbotts and take between 30 minutes and an hour each to complete. Download maps from visitleevalley.org.uk/routes.

12th June. Knitted farmyard characters will be hiding in shop windows around the town for participants to discover and mark on a form for a chance to win a £30, £20 or £10 gift voucher to spend at a Hertford retailer.

Trail maps for both events can be picked up from the Town and Tourist Information Centre in The Wash or downloaded from the Hertford Town Council website.

axis magazine 21

WHAT’S ON: AT THE CINEMA

As cinemas open again, four films to see on the big screen this month Peter Rabbit 2 (U) Now showing The naughty little Peter Rabbit (as voiced by James Corden) is back with another feelgood caper, in which Bea, Thomas and the rabbits have formed their very own makeshift family. Venturing out of the garden Peter finds a world in which his mischief is appreciated but when his family risks everything to come looking for him, Peter must figure out what sort of bunny he really wants to be.

Cruella (12A) Now showing A live action film about the rebellious early days of the notorious, but eminently fashionable, Cruella de Vil – she of Dalmatian fame. The film is set in London during the 1970s punk revolution and follows Estella, a clever and creative young grifter who is determined to make a name for herself with

22 axis magazine

Cruella de Vil takes to the catwalk

her designs. She befriends a pair of enterprising young thieves and together they make their own inimitable mark on the streets of London.

Felix & the Hidden Treasure (PG) Out on Friday 4th June This adventurous and heart-warming animated story for all the family follows 12-yearold Felix who is convinced that his father, who disappeared at

Felix prepares for a treasure hunt

sea two years earlier, is still alive.

Felix embarks on a search for him in the company of Old Tom, a retired fisherman; Squawk, a thieving, one-legged parrot; and Rover, a cat who acts like a dog. Their journey takes them to Darkshadow Island, where a secret community inhabits an underground city ruled by the megalomaniacal Morgaa, possessor of a priceless treasure.

Great fun.

In The Heights (TBC) Out on Friday 18th June The creator of Hamilton and the director of Crazy Rich Asians team up for a musical feast that focuses on life on Washington Heights – a tight knit community filled with universal characters. It centres on the likeable, magnetic bodega owner Usnavi who saves every penny from his daily grind as he hopes, imagines and sings about a better life.

WHAT’S ON: THE ARTS

The Three Inch Fools will perform at Knebworth

Hertfordshire Festival of Music is this month

Book now for June’s open air theatre shows in Hertford and Knebworth

Stortford band to play at Standon Calling

The 2021 Hertfordshire Festival of Music runs in and around Hertford from Friday 4th to Thursday 10th June.

This annual summer celebration of classical music features international artists and ensembles as well as outreach and educational projects.

This year’s principal artist is violinist Chloe Hanslip (pictured above), while Judith Weir CBE is the featured living composer.

Other performers include pianist Danny Driver, Albion Quartet, cellist Matthew Sharp, Fontanella Recorder Consort and pianist Florian Mitrea.

For full details of the range of concerts, masterclasses and recitals, and to book tickets, visit hertsmusicfest.org.uk.

HERTFORD CASTLE Hertford Castle is hosting two open-air theatre performances in one day in its grounds on Saturday 19th June.

The first show, which is for all the family, is Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny and is at 2.30pm.

Later, in the evening, the all-time outdoor Shakespeare favourite A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Shakespeare will be on stage at 7pm.

Quantum Theatre presents both performances. Tickets are £10 per performance and they can be bought online at hertford.gov.uk/ events or by calling Hertford Town & Tourist Information Centre on 01992 584322.

Bishop’s Stortford-based nu-jazz band Vertaal have been booked to play at this year’s Standon Calling festival in July.

The duo, Ajit Gill and Theo Howarth, will be playing on the Lawn stage on the final day of the festival.

They recently released their debut album, Paradigm Shifting, on double vinyl, which sold out on pre-sales and their recent single, Alcazar, received great reviews on Jazz FM. Standon Calling is on from Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th July. The festival is headlined by Bastille, Hot Chip and Primal Scream. Tickets are now on sale for the weekend (£179) and individual days (£65). Book at standon-calling.com.

HERTFORD MUSEUM REOPENS The reopened Hertford Museum has two interesting exhibitions on this month.

The first is called Here Come The Brides! and explores the cult of the bride and why we all love a wedding. The exhibition features some of the beautiful wedding gowns from down the years in the museum’s collection.

Bill Clarke’s Hertford exhibits watercolours by the local artist and musician, taking a quirky look at some of Hertford’s most iconic buildings. The museum in Bull Plain, Hertford is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.

KNEBWORTH HOUSE Knebworth House is staging the first of its three garden theatre performances this month.

It’s on Wednesday 16th June, when The Three Inch Fools bring an inventive take on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to Hertfordshire, featuring all manner of musical instruments.

Tickets are £16 for adults, £10 for ages 10-18 and £45 for a family of four.

Later performances include Macbeth by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men on Sunday 8th August at 7.30pm and The Jungle Book by Immersion Theatre on Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th August at 6pm.

To book your tickets, visit knebworthhouse.com.

ART ON THE WATER A small group of creative types living on narrow boats and barges on the River Stort on the outskirts of Bishop’s Stortford are opening up their community once a month to show and sell their art to the public.

The group, based at April Island next to Southmill Lock, are collectively known as April Art and include metal sculptor Ivo, jewellery designer Dawn Easby and potter/ woodworker Gill Humphrey. The artists will be opening the gates of the marina every last Sunday of the month from 10am until 4pm.

HRC GRADUATES’ SHOP TAKEOVER Art and Design graduates from Hertford Regional College have taken over an empty shop in The Pavilions, Waltham Cross to put on an exhibition of their work, which is being called The Platform. It is a showcase of vibrant work from students working across a range of two-year degree level courses within the Art & Design department at its Ware campus. To view the exhibition, visit The Pavilions shopping centre in High Street, Waltham Cross from Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm until Saturday 12th June. axis magazine 23

WHAT’S ON

SPONSORED CONTENT

Ware Food Festival returns to Tudor Square this month The Ware Food Festival – one of the town’s most popular annual events – returns for a 7th outing.

Ware’s historic Tudor Square will host the event, which attracts a range of local businesses with stalls offering street food and drink to locals and visitors from farther afield.

This year’s festival will take place on Sunday 13th June between 11am and 3pm.

Families will be able to try food from the likes of The Smokin’ Greek, Maud’s Ice Cream, Jamie’s Cakes & Coffee, Healy’s Kitchen, The Pro Artisan Bakery and Toastilicious.

Ware business The Chef’s Table will be serving its famous sausage rolls and fried chicken and Tudor Square Turkish restaurant Manolya will be open too.

French & Day delicatessen in High Street will be offering in-house tastings as well.

There will also be plenty of opportunities to buy food to take home with you (or perhaps

prepare for a picnic later!) with produce from Hertfordshire Honey; Spanish food, Italian cheese and charcuterie from Azahar; and puddings from local chocolatier Kate Ashman and Ell Churros.

To drink, try the wares of local artisan gin producer Copper in the Clouds, who produce botanical magic from a distillery on a farm in Colliers End, and local wine from Four Acres Estate in nearby Little Hadham.

There will also be entertainment with comedy walkabout theatre from The Fairly Fresh Fish Company from 12-12.30pm, 1-1.30pm and 2.15-3.45pm; and music from the ever-popular Lip Service Brass Band from 1.30-2.10pm and 2.30-3pm.

All traders will be operating in a Covid-secure manner and visitors are asked to be mindful of social distancing regulations in place at the time.

Ware Food Festival is organised

by Ware Town Council.

Ware Food Festival is always a fun day out for the whole family

Ware food festival NOW IN ITS 7th YEAR!

oN sUNdaY 13th June iN tUdor sQUare 11am-3pm featUriNg stalls from the smokin’ greek, maud’s ice Cream, toastilicious, Jamie’s Cakes & Coffee, azahar, Kate ashman, ell Churros, the Chef’s table, Hertfordshire Honey, Copper in the Clouds, four acres estate, the Pro artisan Bakery Live music from Lip Service Brass Band Ware food festival is organised by Ware town Council 24 axis magazine

ENJOY WALKABOUT STREET THEATRE from tHe fairlY fresH fisH ComPaNY

FOOD & DRINK

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS

The wait is finally over... Buffalo Joe’s opens its doors at last

May finally saw the occasion that restaurateur Joey Fairservice has been waiting for all year – the opening to diners of Buffalo Joe’s first standalone eatery in Bishop’s Stortford.

Joey’s business was first launched in 2013 out of a converted Citroen H van, and it has since been winning fans (and awards) for its distinctive wings, fried chicken, burgers and fries.

Joey still operates a food truck, called The Green Machine, as part of foodPark, a street food collective in Cambridge which tours venues in Cambridgeshire.

Nearly two years ago, Joey opened his first bricks and mortar home in Bishop’s Stortford, within Potter Street’s Eat 17 street food market and that went so well that he decided to expand further still, signing a lease on the former Gin Palace premises in Church Street at the end of last year.

It was ready to open in January but with the pandemic causing restaurants to remain closed to diners since that time, the business has instead been doing a roaring trade in takeaways.

Open for dining in Finally, on Thursday 20th May, came the moment the team had long been preparing for – the opening of the doors of the town’s newest eatery.

The Buffalo Joe’s menu features

burgers (both chicken and chuck steak), wings (with either the restaurant’s signature tangy sauce or Korean, satay and honey options), fries and dips.

Vegans get their very own menu offering jackfruit burger and wing options as do children with a menu of smaller size portions of Buffalo Joe’s favourites.

With an ethos similar to that at Eat 17 which champions small, local or independent suppliers, Buffalo Joe’s offers a range of local produce on its menu, including meat from Humphrey’s Butchers round the corner in Bishop’s Stortford and desserts such as ice creams and vegan sorbets from The Saffron Ice Cream Company.

The drinks menu is eclectic, with lagers and ales from Wylde Sky Brewing near Cambridge, gins from Copper in the Clouds distillery at Colliers End in Ware, and vodkas made with East Anglian Wheat (Element 29).

The restaurant is open Tuesday to Thursday from 12noon to 3.30pm and 5pm to 10.30pm; on Friday and Saturday from 12noon – 3.30pm and 5pm to 11pm and on Sundays from 12noon to 5pm.

Buffalo Joe’s 3 Church Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LY 01279 899154 buffalojoes.co.uk axis magazine 25

FOOD & DRINK

The Wine Column

By Ritchie Tough of Cavavin

The latest trends: Asian and Orange wines

New owners have big plans for The Old Bell in Sawbridgeworth The team behind The Hand and Crown in High Wych has taken on a second local pub, The Old Bell in Sawbridgeworth’s Bell Street.

The inn is believed to date back to the 16th century as a house, becoming an inn in the 17th century, and is a traditional pub with a cosy beamed main bar and open fireplace.

It is a freehouse and is run by Lee and Linda Davis who have been with the pub for the past four years. It stocks a large selection of real ales, gins and wines, is dog and family friendly with children welcome until 7pm.

The new owners have begun a

programme of investment which has already seen works undertaken to the pub garden with the addition of a new stretched canopy over the courtyard area.

A children’s play area is coming soon as is a wood fired pizza oven in the next six weeks which will allow customers to enjoy food inside the pub, in the garden or to take away.

The Old Bell is open 7 days a week from 11am to 11pm and is at 38 Bell Street, Sawbridgeworth CM21 9AN. Call 01279 725052 or visit theoldbellsawbridgeworth.com for more information.

Water Lane Bar and Restaurant closes down Water Lane Bar and Restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford has been closed permanently following the latest period of national lockdown and the site is currently being marketed for sale by Everard Cole of Cambridge.

The site was part of the Nye family’s Anglian Country Inns portfolio which also includes The Fox at Willian and Hermitage Road in Hitchin along with others in North Norfolk.

The remainder of the group’s venues have reopened. Based in 26 axis magazine

a former brewery building which had been extensively refurbished

by ACI, Water Lane boasted a 40-cover restaurant on the ground floor, mezzanine dining area and popular cellar bar.

The growing wealth in Asia is changing people’s drinking habits. Whereas once beer and homemade spirits dominated the continent’s drinks industry, it is now clear that wine is the fastest growing tipple of choice. Drinking wine is now regarded as a status symbol for a household, but as not everyone can afford a top chateau regularly, the wine industry within Asia has started to expand dramatically.

China, for example, is now ranked 7th in the world for producing wines, which is higher than South Africa and Chile, and the likes of India and Thailand are not far behind in quality. I would say in another 10-15 years they will be very much on top of things.

There are some really exciting things coming out of Asia right now and things, as the song goes, can only get better.

The future’s Orange Here in Britain, we have lots of trends and it is tricky to see what the next wave will bring. The low/no alcohol industry is huge and growing well, along with organic and natural wines, but the biggest demand is Orange wines – yes, you did read that correctly!

To create these we take a white grape, but instead of fast pressing the grapes, we press for a longer period of time allowing the fruit from the skins to start adding character in a bottle (in the same way we make red wine), creating a wine with backbone and depth.

Here’s one I recommend: LITMUS WINES ORANGE WINE, BACCHUS, SURREY, 2020 £15.90 Pale gold in colour the wine displays hazelnut, fennel and marzipan characters on the nose. The palate has a touch of vanilla spice, is incredibly generous and complex and boasts a long broad palate with a gripping astringency and smooth, long finish. Enjoy with oily meats and spicy dishes.

Cavavin is your local, independent wine shop.

It’s at 22 Maidenhead Street, Hertford SG14 1DR. Call 01992 558311 or visit cavavin.co.uk.

Online ordering available.

FOOD AND DRINK: SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS

ADVERTISEMENT LISTINGS

SAFFRON Indian

THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining

THE GOLDEN FLEECE Pub & Dining

The quality of the well-established Saffron in Hoddesdon was recognised when it won Best Indian Restaurant in Hertfordshire in the 2017 Curry Life Awards.

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.

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

The George IV is delighted to reopen and welcome you back.

The recently renovated terrace area with heaters, together with a private courtyard, are perfect to enjoy alfresco dining this season.

The George IV offers freshly prepared dishes, including traditional pub classics, in a friendly pub atmosphere and is an ideal venue for private events including intimate weddings, birthdays, anniversaries or corporate functions.

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 free house 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 now available.

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

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

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

ERMAN’S KITCHEN Turkish

VILLA ITALIA Italian

FOX AND HOUNDS Restaurant & The Fox Shop & Deli

This family-run restaurant, which opened in 2020, is now open again and still has its covered and heated outdoor space available for alfresco dining too. It offers a menu of Turkish cuisine, high quality drinks and cocktails and is also open from 8am daily for breakfast too. Erman’s is housed in a Grade II listed former pub that has been refurbished into three contemporary and comfortable dining areas plus the garden. The menu offers hot and cold starters, grills and Erman’s signature dishes that include Turkish fish and seafood specialities.

The popular authentic family-run Villa Italia restaurant in Sawbridgeworth opened in March 2019 and quickly became a firm local favourite.

It offers a wide range of crowd-pleasing Italian dishes to suit every occasion, including pizza, pasta, meat and fish dishes as well as homemade desserts. Villa Italia’s opening hours are Tues-Thurs 5-10.30pm; Fri and Sat 12.303pm and 5-11pm and Sun 12.30-5pm.

A roast dinner is available on Sunday with meats changing weekly – just call or email info@villa-italia-restaurant.co.uk to order.

The Fox and Hounds, now in its 16th year of trading under owners Bianca and James Rix, is well established as one of Hertfordshire’s leading eating out destinations. The Josper oven, seasonal menus, superb Sunday lunch and relaxed atmosphere are all great reasons to visit. Bianca and James have also added a popular shop and deli in the bar area, selling their homemade ready meals to take away, Brindisa deli treats, fresh bread, pastries, flowers, plants and gifts from local suppliers.

Open from 9am (10am weekends) Weds-Sun.

2 Fore Street, Old Harlow CM17 0AA 01279 454000 ermanskitchen.co.uk

48 & 52 Bell Street, Sawbridgeworth CM21 9AN 01279 358358 villa-italia-restaurant.co.uk

2 High Street, Hunsdon SG12 8NH 01279 843999 foxandhounds-hunsdon.co.uk axis magazine 27

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EXPECT MORE n FROM YOUR n ESTATE AGENT

For Sale at Boxwood Park, Nr Hertford: £1,100,000 A selection of four freehold 5 bedroom detached, innovative family homes beautifully located within a woodland setting and offering flexible family living.

Properties include garages, impressive private roof terraces and landscaped south-facing gardens. Due to complete March 2022.

Register your interest today on 01992 721 321

01992 721 321 n www.thomas-childs.com