NEW HOMES CHARGE DEVELOPERS TO PAY TO HELP SUSTAIN FOREST
THAT’S A GOOD IKEA NEW SMALLER FORMAT STORE ARRIVES IN HARLOW
SUMMER HOLIDAY FUN PLACES TO VISIT AND THINGS TO DO
OPEN-AIR THEATRE THE GREAT GATSBY COMES TO THE ROMAN THEATRE
FOOD TO LOVE INNAMORATI GARDEN OPENS IN GREAT AMWELL
By Laura-Jane Hughes Communications Manager, B&M Care
Nearly one million people in the UK are currently living with dementia, and this number is expected to rise significantly over the coming years. Alzheimer’s disease is the most commonly diagnosed type, making up around twothirds of all cases.
As our understanding of dementia continues to grow, so too does our ability to detect it earlier, manage its symptoms more effectively, and work towards future treatments. In this article, we look at the most recent research developments, how they may impact families, and what you should know right now.
Recent years have seen significant advancements in disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer’s disease. Two notable drugs—Lecanemab (marketed as Leqembi) and donanemab (marketed as Kisunla)—have demonstrated potential in slowing the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s by targeting and reducing amyloid plaques in the brain. In 2024, both Lecanemab and donanemab received approval from the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for use in adults with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. However, in June 2025, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) concluded that these treatments should not be made available on the NHS, citing limited long-term benefits and concerns over cost-effectiveness. As a result, access to these medications remains restricted to
private healthcare or clinical trial settings.
These developments mark a significant step forward in advances in dementia research, offering hope that future treatments may not only manage symptoms but also alter the course of the disease when administered early.
Easier and Earlier Dementia Diagnosis
Obtaining a timely and accurate diagnosis of dementia has traditionally involved memory assessments, MRI scans, and sometimes invasive procedures like lumbar punctures. However, there have been recent advancements in blood tests for dementia diagnosis.
Blood-Based Biomarker Tests
These blood tests are bringing us closer to easier and earlier dementia diagnoses. These blood tests aim to detect levels of amyloid and tau proteins, which are key indicators of Alzheimer’s disease, long before symptoms appear.
A study published in Nature Medicine demonstrated that blood tests measuring minute levels of amyloid-β and tau proteins circulating in the bloodstream can identify Alzheimer’s-related pathology with over 90% accuracy.
In the UK, the Blood Biomarker Challenge (an initiative led by Alzheimer’s Society, Alzheimer’s Research UK, and the National Institute for Health and Care Research) is underway to pilot the use of these blood tests in NHS settings. In early 2025, large-scale trials involving more than 3,000 patients began across several NHS clinics, testing the real-world
potential of these diagnostics. The goal is to make such diagnostics widely available within the next five years. These developments could revolutionise dementia diagnosis, offering a cost-effective, non-invasive alternative to current methods and enabling earlier intervention for those affected.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Dementia Diagnosis
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is opening new doors in early dementia detection and diagnosis. AI-powered tools can now analyse brain scans and even language patterns to spot early warning signs of cognitive decline.
This technology has the potential to personalise treatment, speed up diagnosis, and ultimately improve care outcomes.
Dementia Prevention Strategies
Many studies confirm that certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing dementia by contributing to better brain health.
These include:
l Regular physical activity
l Healthy eating
l Social engagement
l Cognitive stimulation.
The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention found that up to 40% of dementia cases could be
delayed or even prevented through addressing modifiable risk factors like hypertension, obesity, hearing loss and isolation.
An updated 2024 report from the Commission has since raised this figure to 45%, adding vision loss and high cholesterol to the list of risk factors that can be modified through early intervention.
Dementia Advancements at B&M Care
At B&M Care, we are committed to staying at the forefront of dementia care. We regularly review the latest research and innovations to ensure our homes reflect best practices and emerging technologies. This includes the recent introduction of PainChek: a clinically validated pain assessment tool that uses facial recognition and AI to help staff identify and manage pain in residents who may struggle to communicate discomfort. By embracing advancements like this, we continue to provide thoughtful, personalised care that evolves alongside the science.
Staying Informed and Getting Support
To stay up to date on advances in dementia research, follow organisations like Alzheimer’s Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia UK and the NHS Dementia Guide.
05-13 y Briefing
New home builders will have to pay tariff to help support forest’s health
16-23 y What’s on
Discover the best places to go and things to do this summer holiday
15 y IKEA opens in Harlow
Just 100 days after acquiring the site, IKEA has opened its new store
24-27 y Food & drink
Take a look inside the newly-opened Innamorati Garden in Great Amwell
11 & 13 y FROM PARLIAMENT: Our MPs write exclusive columns for you
22 y HOLIDAY MOVIES: The best new films to see this month
A new
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.
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To find out more about promoting your business with us please call 01992 500198
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Developers building new homes in areas of East Herts including Bishop’s Stortford and Sawbridgeworth must pay a £540 tariff per home to mitigate potential damage to historic Hatfield Forest caused by a doubling of visitor numbers over the last decade.
East Herts has agreed to adopt the measure, which is being introduced immediately, in conjunction with the three other local councils, from whose areas the majority of visitors to the forest come: Uttlesford, Harlow and Epping Forest. Hatfield Forest, which lies within Uttlesford district, five km east of Bishop’s Stortford, is the finest example of a royal medieval hunting forest in Europe.
Owned and managed by the National Trust, its popularity as a place to visit has grown hugely, and the Trust says it is now experiencing “rapid and unsustainable growth in visitor numbers” which is putting the forest under “considerable pressure”.
The 392-hectare forest is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a National Nature Reserve (NNR) and the
forest also contains two Scheduled Ancient Monuments and four listed buildings. In its Hatfield Forest Mitigation Strategy, the Trust warns that the nature of the special landscape is “extremely vulnerable to this growth in numbers” and that habitat loss is occurring and not recovering.
Local authorities, together with Natural England and the National Trust, have a legal responsibility to take steps to conserve and enhance the forest to mitigate against its deterioration for the enjoyment of current and future generations. Natural England has now advised the four councils that a package of mitigation improvements should be paid for by the new tariff, because the growth in visitor numbers is being partly attributed to a significant rise in new homes being built, a trend that it says will continue as the Harlow and Gilston Garden Town and other developments gradually complete.
However, the Gilston development, which will eventually provide 16,000 homes over the next nine years, has been excluded from the tariff, on the basis that it will be
providing substantial areas of green space which are expected to reduce the numbers from the development who might otherwise visit Hatfield Forest.
Each of the councils can set a different tariff, based on the number of new homes planned and the likely impact they will have on the forest. The tariff for East Herts has been calculated at £540.07 per dwelling.
The areas within East Herts this will apply to include all of Bishop’s Stortford and Sawbridgeworth, plus parts of the wards of Little
Hadham and the Pelhams, Braughing and Standon, Much Hadham, Ware Rural and Hunsdon.
The tariff was agreed by East Herts Council’s Executive at a meeting on Tuesday 8th July and by full council on Wednesday 23rd July.
East Herts Council’s new waste and recycling collection service begins on Monday 4th August, with residents now having to get used to a new three-weekly collection cycle and, for some, a different collection day to the one they previously had.
In the run-up to the change, which has now been trailed for several months, residents have been sent letters outlining how the new system will work and which day they should put their bins out.
The letters also included a leaflet explaining what materials should
go in each bin, with one bin each for mixed recycling, paper and cardboard and non-recyclable waste, each of which will be collected once every three weeks. In addition, a new food waste bin has been introduced, which will be collected every week. Garden waste collections will continue to be every two weeks for residents who have paid to subscribe to this service.
The changes have been introduced by the Green and Liberal Democrat joint administration to increase recycling rates and reduce waste across the area.
Cllr Tim Hoskin, the Executive Member for Environmental Sustainability, said: “We understand this is a significant change, but we hope residents will soon notice the different it makes. We would also like to thank residents for their patience during the delivery of the new bins … and for their continued understanding as we work to resolve any outstanding issues that may have arisen during the process.”
Residents can also check their new collection dates online at myaccount.eastherts.gov.uk/ waste-services
A rare plant has been discovered at Rye Meads Nature Reserve near Hoddesdon.
Staff at Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust found Tubular Water Dropwort at the site for the first time since 2018. A member of the carrot family, it is classified as vulnerable on the GB Red List for plants, which means it is threatened with extinction.
The plant is also one of 1,524 species listed as a Herts Species of Conservation Concern, which means that it is threatened in a county context.
Ian Carle, Nature Reserves Manager at the Trust, said: “Tubular Water Dropwort is a perennial, lowland plant which grows in areas of wetland and appears most frequently in ancient habitats, such
Thousands of new jobs for local people are expected to be created after the Government confirmed, after years of delay, that the UK Health Security Agency will build its new National Biosecurity Centre in Harlow.
Work to prepare the NBC for operation will begin as soon as possible, with the first facilities at the site in Coldharbour Lane due to open by the mid-2030s and the whole site scheduled to be in operation by 2038.
The Government said that people in the UK will be better protected from future pandemics and biosecurity threats by the move, which it says will create a “new, world-leading bio-security centre in Harlow”. Health Secretary West Streeting said: “This transformational investment in the UK’s national biosecurity will better protect the British public
from future health emergencies, boost the life sciences sector and create new jobs. Covid-19 taught us how crucial it is to be able to respond quickly to new emerging threats, and this will allow us to do exactly that – ensuring Britain remains a world leader in pandemic preparedness. Harlow will become a scientific hub ... exploring new ways to treat illnesses, improve people’s health and save more lives.”
Harlow Council said the new centre will inject £80million a year into the local economy, create 1,600 jobs to support construction of the site and provide 2,750 high-quality jobs. The news was welcomed by Harlow Labour MP Chris Vince and by the Conservative council leader Dan Swords who called it “a moment of huge significance – not just for Harlow today, but for its future for generations to come.”
as traditionally managed meadows like the one at Rye Meads.
“Although it had not been recorded at the nature reserve for the past seven years, we looked for it amongst the dense vegetation of the wetland meadow that we managed to get cut last year.
“We were rewarded with finding around 130 plants, which is an incredible find, given its rarity.”
A herd of water buffalo has returned to Thorley Wash Nature Reserve south of Bishop’s Stortford for the third successive summer. An unusual sight to see in the Hertfordshire countryside, the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust nonetheless considers the animals to be the best livestock option to graze the 13-hectare wetland site. Thorley Wash is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is a
great example of a fen habitat. With 99 per cent of fen habitat having been lost in the UK, it is a real rarity in Hertfordshire.
The water buffalo have travelled from Sunnymead Farm in Essex to Thorley Wash to graze the ditches, waterlogged marshy areas and wet grassland, and improve biodiversity. Kathryn Dunnett, Reserves Officer at the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, said: “Year on year we’ve
expanded the area that the water buffalo have grazed at Thorley Wash and we are really pleased with the effect they are having. The aim is to improve diversity on the site – with greater diversity in plant species, we see a wider spread of insect species, and in turn that helps with pollination and feeding the birds that breed on the reserve.”
For more information visit hertswildlifetrust.org.uk.
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All 11 of Hertfordshire’s local councils have jointly launched a first phase of engagement as part of a programme to shape proposals for the future of local government. The aim is to deliver an agreed final set of proposals to present to the Government by 28th November this year for the future make-up of local councils across the county.
Axis has reported previously that the Government wants to abolish the existing county and district council structure and replace it with unitary councils that will provide all services, each with an electorate of around 500,000 people.
Councils are now discussing proposals with stakeholders including the NHS, police, education leaders, major employers, town and parish councils and voluntary and community sector groups. Representatives from town and parish councils, which will remain in place, includ-
ing Hertford, Ware, Sawbridgeworth and Bishop’s Stortford town councils, are being asked to come up with options for enhanced working with the new unitary authorities. A second phase of engagement, which will allow local residents to put forward their thoughts, will be launched in September.
Cllr Steve Jarvis, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, said:
“This is an important milestone. Listening to the views of our partners, residents and colleagues across Hertfordshire is essential to developing proposals that will help us maintain and improve local government services in the long-term.”
Cllr Corina Gander, leader of Broxbourne Council, said: “My main aim is to ensure that the council of the future has Broxbourne’s residents and businesses firmly at its heart.”
Hertfordshire County Council has reconfirmed that its historic County Hall home in Hertford will be sold –with the money raised from the Pegs Lane site reinvested in local services. Axis reported last month that the decision to market the whole site for development, including potential use as housing, had been made by the council’s cabinet, but it was then “called in” as allowed under the county’s constitution and discussed further at a special meeting of the
overview and scrutiny committee on Wednesday 9th July. The cabinet then reconfirmed its original decision on Monday 21st July.
The building had already been marketed for employment use since September 2023, with most of Hertfordshire’s services having been moved to its Stevenage campus since. But with limited interest in the site, the decision was made to market it for wider use, including residential or commercial use.
Two more Green Party councillors have been elected to Hertford Town Council, after they won two seats vacated by Labour councillors. Sarah Aldridge and Drew WallerDownes were both elected in by-elections held on Thursday 10th July. The two Reform UK candidates finished next, followed by the Conservatives, Labour and the Liberal Democrats. The Greens now hold 12 of the 16 council seats.
A public consultation is open throughout August on plans to improve Hartham Skate Park in Hertford. East Herts Council wants to hear from everyone who enjoys the park’s space, including BMX and scooter riders and roller bladers. The consultation will run until Sunday 31st August and can be accessed at yourvoice.eastherts.gov. uk/Hartham-Skate-Park
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YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR BROXBOURNE WRITES FOR AXIS MAGAZINE EVERY
The problems facing our NHS are many but here’s one common sense change that is vitally needed
Whether it’s a conversation at a doorstep, or an email or phone call to my office, I am far too often told that it’s simply impossible to get timely NHS treatment in our area. Attempting to navigate through the complex system can add a heavy burden to an already difficult and stressful situation.
I recently dealt with an especially frustrating example of NHS bureaucracy: a constituent had been told by the transport provider for Moorfields Eye Hospital that her elderly mother did not meet the requirements to be accompanied by a family member during her journey to the hospital.
Unless they were using a Smart Car, that is a ridiculous rule for a clearly vulnerable individual.
After weeks of pushback, the decision had to be overruled by hospital staff and the patient was able to travel with her daughter. In their reply to me, the provider used a template response and referred to out-of-date guidance.
The residents I speak to are often struggling with unique needs, but they all agree that the health service needs fundamental reform.
Let’s change the rules
Since my election, I’ve been fighting for just one common-sense improvement to a particular issue here in Broxbourne.
New housing has sprung up across the constituency in recent years, but
not a single new health facility has opened. Local services are already stretched, and they just cannot cope with additional demand.
Housing development must come alongside investment in public infrastructure, and planning laws should be amended to make this a legal requirement.
The Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill could have done this, but Ministers have missed the opportunity.
Not enough detail
In recent weeks I’ve also visited GP surgeries to see for myself what’s going on behind the scenes.
The doctors and practice staff I meet are working incredibly hard, but are often battling against a system that no longer has patient care at its heart.
Labour have announced proposals for change, but plans for new ‘neighbourhood health centres’ lack detail, and suggestions for integrated care boards to cover wider areas would weaken accountability.
Will we pay more for the same?
And as ever, we must wait for the Chancellor to announce her Budget this Autumn before we get answers to the big question – will we be paying even more tax for the same service? I fear the answer will be yes, but as your MP I will always fight for public services that actually serve local residents.
Last month I was proud to attend the unveiling of the latest publicly available 24/7 defibrillator in my constituency – outside Plumpton House in Plumpton Road, Hoddesdon. The campaign to install the defibrillator was led by local business HB Accountants and gen-
I continue to hold regular in-person surgeries to discuss issues and concerns with constituents. If you have a problem you’d like to raise with me, please contact my office at lewis.cocking.mp@parliament.uk or on 01992 845335
In addition, if you own a business or are involved in a local organisation and you would like me to come and visit, then please let me know!
erously supported by the landlord of the Plumpton House building. Local charity Hearts for Herts facilitated the installation of this piece of life-saving equipment.
I’m always pleased to support our local community organisations and charities.
YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD WRITES FOR AXIS MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH
I am proud to have engaged so much with young people as the Government backs votes at 16
Throughout July, it’s been a privilege to engage with some inspiring young people across our constituency and support them to play an active role in shaping our local area.
Welcoming Heidi Alexander to Hollybush Primary School
I was delighted to welcome the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, to Hollybush Primary School in Hertford for the launch of the Junior Active Travel Inspectors scheme.
This initiative was developed in collaboration with Active Travel England and Modeshift STARS and is the first of its kind in the country. The scheme empowers young people to shape safer, greener and more accessible journeys, by assessing local walking and cycling routes and suggesting improvements.
It’s a brilliant example of how we can involve young people in building a better future. I’m proud that our community is leading the way.
Meeting Simon Balle School students in Parliament
I had a brilliant morning in Westminster welcoming students from Simon Balle School for a visit to Parliament.
Their day began with a guided tour of Parliament, before we gathered for a lively Q&A session.
I was incredibly impressed by
the thoughtful and challenging questions posed by the students. Their engagement and insight were a great reminder of the importance of political education and youth involvement.
Visits like these are vital in helping young people understand how they can influence change and make their voices heard.
I’m proud to represent a constituency with such engaged and informed young minds, and I look forward to welcoming more young people to Parliament when we return from Summer Recess.
Empowering young people in our community
I’m committed to championing opportunities for young people to shape the world around them.
I was delighted to see this commitment to young people reflected in meaningful policy change.
I’m proud that our Labour Government is delivering on our manifesto commitment to lower the voting age to 16 for the next General Election, a cause I stood up for nine years ago, campaigning in Parliament Square for Votes at 16.
I’m proud to now sit on the benches behind a Government delivering this promise.
This is an important step towards giving young people a voice and enabling them to take a more active role in making change.
To book an appointment, please email josh.dean.mp@parliament.uk with your full name, postal address including postcode, a contact number and as much detail about your case(s) as possible.
th th
The Mayor of Hertford for 2025/2026 is Councillor Steven Watson. Appointed at Mayor Making back in May, he has had a busy start to the municipal year with a trip to Wildeshausen to mark the 30 anniversary of Hertford’s town twinning with Wildeshausen and the 45 anniversary of twinning with Evron, France. The Mayor was joined by fellow Hertford Town Councillors and representatives from both of the town twinning associations.
Since then, the Mayor has continued to be busy; opening new businesses, unveiling defibrillators, attending school activities, fairs and speech days, awards ceremonies, civic receptions and concerts, including the Hertfordshire Festival of Music and the Hertford Jazz Festival. The Mayor has met with charities and organisations including volunteer ambulance responders and also enjoyed judging ‘Hertford in Bloom’, organised by Mudlarks Community Garden. Councillor Watson has also met with Hertford District Scouts and Herts Young Homeless – his two chosen charities for the municipal year. Mayoral events, both Civic and fund-raising, are being planned and updates can be see by following @hertfordmayor.
The Council’s Children’s Summer Trail, in partnership with the amazing ‘Secret Society of Hertford Crafters’, is now in full swing. Follow the trail map and discover the 'Down on the Farm' themed knitted characters hiding in shops and shop windows across Hertford town centre. Pop into the ‘Hertford Town and Tourist Information Centre’ to collect a copy of the trail map or download from www.hertford.gov.uk; return your entry for a chance to win a £30.00 gift voucher to spend at a local Hertford retailer.
It may be summer, but it has been a busy time for Hertford Town Council who hosted the popular ‘Hertford Castle Beer and World Food Festival’ on 6th July, as well as the ‘I’m a Foodie’ promotions over that weekend in Hertford town centre.
The Council also held the ‘Annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic’ which was an amazing day at the Castle, with lots of fun for the many children who attended and brought their bears to show off in the parade or ride the
Town Council’s ‘Rock at the Castle’ celebrates its 20th Anniversary on 3rd August, which promises to be an epic event - with three stages across Hertford Castle’s grounds, the concert aims to raise funds for its chosen charity beneficiary: ‘Hearts for Herts’.
For details of all the Council’s free community events, including the last available tickets for the ‘Within these Walls’ outdoor Castle grounds tours, please see www.hertford.gov.uk/events or follow @hertfordtowncouncil.
To view a digital safer cycling map showing routes across Hertford and Ware – scan the QR code or go to www.hertford.gov.uk/ safer-cycling.
This interactive map outlines the safest suggested routes to ride a bicycle; highlighting low traffic routes, car free areas and places to take extra care. Hertford Town Council, working in partnership with Ware Town Council, hopes this will help residents and visitors plan their travel for safer, more enjoyable, journeys. This is a result of the Council's regular discussions with local cycling groups, including Hertford and Ware Cycling Consortium, Hertford Cycle Hub and North Road Cycle Club.
Hertford Town Council has developed three Strategies –shaping its policy for the next few years: an Environmental Sustainability Strategy, a Sustainable Tourism Strategy and a Communications, Engagement and Marketing Strategy. The Council has also produced a Corporate Plan for the next three years – providing an overview of its core services. All of these are available at www.hertford.gov.uk If you have any ideas or comments, please do send them to comms@hertford.gov.uk or through our social media @hertfordtowncouncil
IKEA has opened its new smaller format store in Harlow – just 100 days after acquiring the lease on the former Homebase unit on Harlow Retail Park in Edinburgh Way. It is the first of three such new concept stores the Swedish furniture company is opening this year, with others to follow in Norwich and Chester. The new retail park locations are designed to offer a simpler, faster shopping experience for customers, as part of IKEA’s strategy to be closer to where people live, work and shop.
The opening, on Thursday 24th
July, was attended by Harlow MP Chris Vince and Harlow Council leader Dan Swords, as well as the store’s 40-strong workforce.
The new store format has a compact layout featuring a curated showroom with a series of inspiring room sets.
Shoppers are able to take home a wide range of furnishings and small furniture the same day. They also have access to IKEA’s 10,000-strong product range, items from which can be delivered directly to their homes or collected from the store via a free next day collection service.
Rossi’s Attic, a vintage emporium in Hertford, was set to close its doors on Thursday 31st July after almost six years in the county town.
The antiques and collectables shop, which opened at 4 Mill Bridge in November 2019, has been a source of fabulous finds from period furniture and prints to rare vinyl records, jewellery and fashion.
The shop was named after one of owner Helen and Earle Priest’s late dogs, Rossi. Helen credits Rossi with first getting her into antiques
– while out walking him one day she stumbled across a car boot sale –and was hooked from there!
The shop sold stock that Helen and Earle, who both love antiques and collectables, sourced themselves as well as from other traders, who rented space in the shop.
The closure leaves Hertford, which was once famous for its number of antiques shop, with just one now – Mark Wines Antiques just along the road from Rossi’s Attic in St Andrew Street.
Scan QR code to book your tickets!
Hertfordshire Zoo is a must-visit this summer holidays, with a range of attractions that will keep all the family entertained.
At the Lions of India experience, visitors can meet Sonika and Sahee, the zoo’s resident Asiatic lions. With only a few hundred of these majestic creatures left in the wild, these big cats are among the rarest in the world. You can also learn all about the vital conservation efforts being made while getting a close look at the awe-inspiring animals.
Fans of BBC’s One Zoo Three TV show can meets its stars in person. Cam, Tyler and Aaron Whitnall, who are all members of the family that owns and runs the zoo, will be hosting special meet and greets, sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, answering wildlife questions and posing for selfies. The two dates for the meet and greets are Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 20th August.
On hot days, you can cool off at Boulders Beach, the zoo’s popular South Africa-themed water play area. Children can enjoy the fountains, slides and play zones – just remember to bring a towel and change of clothes!
Finally, if the latest Jurassic Park
Hertfordshire Zoo this summer to
film has revived your fascination with dinosaurs, you can step back in time at the zoo’s World of Dinosaurs. With more than 40 lifesize animatronic dinosaurs, this immersive experience lets families explore a prehistoric world filled with moving, roaring beasts and fascinating facts.
Hertfordshire Zoo is in White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne. Scan the QR code on the page opposite or book tickets online. hertfordshirezoo.com
Waltham Cross’s Lee Valley White Water Centre is a great place to cool down and enjoy a great family day out this summer holiday.
It combines fun and excitement with the making of unforgettable memories at a world-class venue that offers the perfect mix of adrenaline and family-friendly thrills.
Lee Valley White Water Centre was created ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games, and it now gives you and your family the
chance to take on the same circuit as the world-class competitors we all watched on our TV screens. Whether you’re looking to try something new or you’re a paddler looking for a challenge, the venue has something for you –take on a family rafting adventure or choose white water rafting for a white knuckle ride.
Lee Valley White Water Centre also offers kayaking, paddle-boarding and a great fun Water Wipeout course. Book at: better.digitickets.co.uk
Rock Around The Clock Tower Hoddesdon’s big free musical day out, takes place in the town centre on Sunday 17th August this year. Organised by local group Hoddesdon Allstars, with support from Love Hoddesdon BID, the all-day outdoor concert features a wide range of local groups and musicians playing on a stage set up in the High Street near Fawkon Walk, from 11am to 7pm. With so many music festivals being cancelled this year, this is a great opportunity to enjoy some live music. There is something for everyone, with the event tending to attract families early on with the serious rockers in the moshpit from mid-afternoon onwards! Excuse the pun, but just rock up…
Hertford Children’s Summer Trail goes Down on the Farm
In conjunction with the Secret Society of Hertford Crafters, Hertford Town Council has organised a free summer trail for children, which runs all the way through to Saturday 30th August. Knitted characters on the subject of Down on the Farm have been hidden in shops and shop windows across Hertford town centre. Pop into the Town and Tourist Information Centre in The Wash to pick up a trail map, or download one from hertford. gov.uk, complete the trail and return your completed form to the centre by Tuesday 2nd September for a chance to win a £30 gift voucher. While wandering through the town you can also enjoy the Rivers of Hertford yarnbomb, a woolly tribute to the rivers and wildlife of Hertford, also created by the SSOHC.
Princesses and Superheroes take over Cheshunt
Love Cheshunt has organised a Princess and Superhero Fun Day and Trail from Friday 15th August. The fun day is on the 15th
and takes place in Grundy Park with party games, facepainting, meet and greets and more. Take a picnic and meet your favourite characters! The trail features a team of princesses and superheroes hiding in shop windows around town. Pick up a trail leaflet from Dobsons, LMA Studios or Cheshunt Library or download one from lovecheshunt.co.uk.
l Love Cheshunt and Broxbourne Council also host a free open-air cinema day in Grundy Park, on Sunday 24th August. See Moana 2 at 11am, Despicable Me 4 at 2pm and Wicked at 5pm.
Organised by Hertford Town Council, this year’s Hertford Play Day takes place on Wednesday 6th August at Hertford castle from 11am to 4pm. This free event gives children and families the chance to enjoy a range of fun activities including circus skills, Lego masterbuilders, facepainting and garden games. Food, drink and craft stalls will also be open on the Hertford Castle lawn throughout the event.
Bee-lieve in Bishop’s Stortford BID’s summer trail
This year’s Bishop’s Stortford BID summer trail is bee-themed, with 11 bees on display in shop windows around the town centre. Follow the trail to find them all. Each one is displayed next to a letter – find all 11 letters, put them together to form a word and enter the prize draw online. Three prize bundles worth £200 are up for grabs.
Pick up a trail leaflet from Bishop’s Stortford Library, Tourist Information Centre or participating shops.
Broxbourne Council is running Kidz Klub during August, a playscheme offering a fun and stimulating environment for children aged 4-12 at John Warner Sports Centre in Hoddesdon. Email kidzklub@broxbourne.gov.uk or call 01992 445375 for details. Lark in the Park events take place in Cheshunt Park, Barclay Park in Hoddesdon and Waltham Cross Playing Fields on various dates through the summer, offering free physical activities such as skate and graffiti workshops, a climbing wall, bubble football, pottery painting and wellbeing activities. Visit broxbourne.gov.uk.
Ware Town Council runs a range of free summer holiday activities, which are held on the front lawn of Ware Priory. These include: Junk percussion workshop on Tuesday 12th August; Animal Encounters on Thursday 14th; Water Wars on Wednesday 20th; Bushcraft on Tuesday 26th and Multi-sports on Thursday 28th. Visit waretowncouncil.gov.uk.
A new adaptation of The Great Gatsby, by OVO producer Mark O’Sullivan, premieres at the Roman Theatre Open Air Festival in St Albans this month, transporting audiences back to a smoky cabaret bar in 1920s America where a troupe of performers take to the stage for their final performance: the rise and fall of the legendary Gatsby.
OVO’s reworking of F Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless narrative brings the glittering Jazz Age to the Roman Theatre of Verulamium. The story is told through the eyes of Nick Carraway, as the characters become entangled in mysterious millionaire Gatsby’s pathological pursuit of his former lover Daisy Buchanan, with fatal consequences.
This year is the centenary of the book’s publication and it has long been a favourite of director Kelly
Stewart, who has brought in a live band to weave cabaret-style music seamlessly through the production.
The Great Gatsby runs from Friday 8th to Sunday 24th August. Tickets start from £15, with covered seating available in a premium area. For tickets, and further information on the Roman Theatre programme, visit ovo.org.uk.
Open Wednesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays, Until 2 November 2025
23 - Sun 24 August
Galore’s Big
Party Uncle Funk’s Decades in Dance Fri 29 August
Heidi: Rescue of the Lynx (U)
Now showing
The timeless story featuring Johanna Spyri’s classic cheeky heroine is reimagined for a new generation in an animation that also carries a powerful environmental message. Eight-year-old Heidi finds and rescues an injured lynx cub from a trap but learns of industrial plans that threaten not just the cub’s future but the entire Alpine ecosystem.
The Bad Guys 2 (PG)
Now showing Everyone’s favourite furry felons are back and, this time, they’ve got company. In this new chapter from Dreamworks Animation’s acclaimed comedy about a crew of animal outlaws, the now-reformed Bad Guys are trying very hard to be good, but find themselves hijacked into a high-stakes, heist masterminded by a new team of criminals: The Bad Girls.
The Naked Gun (15)
Now showing
Liam Neeson steps into the late Leslie Nielsen’s shoes as the wisecracking cop Lt Frank Drebin Jr, following in his father’s footsteps as the one man who has the
Friday 19th September, 7.30pm
Tickets £31.50
Tom Gates Epic Stage Show
Sunday 28th September, 12pm & 3pm
Tickets: £18, £17 child, Family of 4 £66
Kerry Ellis –Queen of the West End
Wednesday 1st October, 7.30pm
Tickets from £31.50
particular set of skills needed to lead Police Squad – and save the world! Expect all the one liners you could ever wish for in this all-action comedy crime caper. Pamela Anderson is among those joining the squad for this reboot.
Freakier Friday (PG)
Out on Friday 8th August
22 years on, in this sequel to 2003’s Freaky Friday from Disney, Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan are among those reprising their original roles.
Super Charlie (U)
Out on Friday 15th August
An action-packed family adventure based on Swedish best-selling author Camilla Läckberg’s hit children’s book series. 10-year-old Willie has always dreamed of becoming a superhero and fighting crime alongside his police-hero dad but his dream is shattered when his new baby brother Charlie is born – with actual superpowers. When a supervillain and a deranged scientist get together and begin to enact an evil criminal plan the brothers have to put their differences aside and work as a team. But can they save the city?
Essentially Cher
The Goddess of Pop
Saturday 6 September, 7.30pm
Baga Chipz – ‘Chip Off The Old Block’ Disco classics to backstage gossip at RuPaul’s Drag Race!
Thursday 11 September, 7.30pm
Yesterday Once More
The Carpenters Songbook
Friday 12 September, 7.30pm
The All or Nothing Experience
The hits of the iconic Mod Band Small Faces!
Saturday 13 September, 7.30pm
The Illegal Eagles
Return with a brand new production
Sunday 14 September, 7.30pm
The Story of Swing
Swing and big band music through the decades
Wednesday 17 September, 7.30pm
Lost In Music
One Night at the Disco Friday 19 September, 7.30pm
Arsenal Legends – in Conversation Starring Ray Parlour, Paul Merson and Perry Groves
Monday 22 September, 7.30pm
The Rocket Man
A Tribute to Sir Elton John Friday 26 September, 7.30pm
Cheesy Bingo
Music, bingo madness, dancing and drinks!
Saturday 27 September, 7.30pm
The Ultimate Pop Show Live (matinee)
For kids, teens and families to enjoy!
Sunday 28 September, 3pm
Early bird offer - book by 31 August and get £2 off per ticket
Doors and bar open 1.5 hour prior to event start.
Why not enjoy a relaxing pre-show drink and a slice of our delicious...
thespotlightvenue.com 01992 441946 (Monday-Friday 10am-2pm)
Six months on from the closure of Choppy’s restaurant in Great Amwell at the end of January, its successor – Innamorati Garden –opened last month with an impressive and upmarket new look to add to its new name.
Josue Choppy, the owner of Choppy’s, had built up his business over 16 years, earning a strong reputation for excellent food and hospitality. But his dreams for the former Waggon and Horses pub building were always going to be just that –dreams – until he was able to buy the freehold of the pub, which finally happened late last year. He then gained a new business partner, Cemil Balci, who owns other local businesses including the Turkish Kitchen group of restaurants (there is one in Maidenhead Street, Hertford) and together they set about creating their vision for Innamorati Garden.
The result of six months of extensive refurbishment is an updated and remodelled pub building with a striking new glass extension that brings the outside in and completely changes the whole feel of the restaurant.
With a retractable roof and glass windows that can also be opened, it is a real game-changer for Josue and Cemil.
This is more than a modernisation – it is a transformation.
Josue said: “We had a vision of using our old decking area and making a space that you could use throughout the year, and we also wanted to take the whole restaurant upmarket. Inside the old bar we have changed the layout a little and put in new toilets. We can now seat 176 diners in total whereas before it was just 60 inside.”
The food offer at Innamorati Garden includes some of the former seafood and modern European favourites from the Choppy’s days
with additional Italian pizza and pasta dishes planned soon too. Sunday roasts are also served, and there is an extensive cocktail and drinks menu.
There are separate menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sundays which can all be viewed online. Sample dishes from the dinner menu include Pan-fried duck breast served in a rich cherry
brandy sauce with cauliflower purée, mixed vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes (£18); and Grilled salmon fillet with mixed vegetables and baby potatoes, served on gazpacho sauce with warm focaccia (£19). The restaurant is open seven days a week from 9am to 11pm, and there is now extensive parking at the back and the side in an
extended car parking area. Do go along and give this welcome new restaurant your support – it’s definitely one you could fall in love with.
Innamorati Garden Pepper Hill, Great Amwell SG12 9RQ 01920 870747 innamoratigarden.co.uk
Nolaki is a high quality Turkish restaurant that has taken over the former Cock pub in Stansted Mountfitchet and transformed it into a stunning contemporary restaurant with an elegant interior and inventive dishes. Open seven days from 12noon until late, Nolaki offers lunch, dinner, fabulous wines and stunning cocktails. The restaurant is also available for private hire. From Monday to Friday 12-4pm it has a superb value two-course lunch menu for just £14.95 and a three-course lunch menu for £17.95. On Sunday, roasts are served from 12-5pm.
30 Silver Street, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8HD 01279 812964 / nolaki.co.uk
The award-winning Veyso’s has long been one of Hertford’s most talked-about restaurants. Its chefs use the finest ingredients and traditional skills to produce innovative signature dishes and desirable cocktails in a bold and stunning environment. Behind the doors of Veyso’s lies an interior as well crafted as the food, with hand-carved wall art, mother of pearl-embedded wall beams – and the iconic Veyso’s staircase that leads to the basement. Open 7 days a week, Veyso’s has a menu for every occasion, from a light lunch to a great celebration.
97-101 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1AS 01992 550055 / veysos.co.uk
NOWBOOK FATHER’SFOR DAY SUNDAY15thJUNE
Thai takeaway & delivery
Ruay Rôt means ‘rich in flavour’ in Thai and that is precisely what the food you can order for takeaway or delivery from Hertford’s newest eatery is. Just down the road from its previous and hugely popular Baan Thitiya restaurant, this new takeaway outlet offers authentic Thai food for you to enjoy at home, continuing Baan Thitiya’s story after 20 years in Hertford. You can order by phone or through the GoGetters and Deliveroo apps for delivery to Hertford, Ware and Hoddesdon. The menu includes many vegan specials. Outside tables are also available on warmer days.
6 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RB 01992 587706 / ruayrôt.co.uk
The George IV offers exceptional restaurant cuisine within a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The team serve fresh and seasonal dishes, on both an à la carte and small plate menu, which can be enjoyed on the sun-drenched terrace over the summer months. Dart Club, located in the rear courtyard, is an interactive dart game that’s ideal for birthdays, team-building or just a friendly competition! The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event, such as an intimate wedding, baby shower, birthday or a special anniversary.
Cautherly Lane, Great Amwell SG12 9SW 01920 870039
info@georgeivpub.co.uk georgeivpub.co.uk
Italian & Turkish
Pircio is a family-run independent restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford that offers two different menus of Italian and Turkish cuisine. Both menus are cooked by teams of specialist chefs and diners can choose from pizza, pasta and other Italian classics or dishes such as halloumi, falafel, moussaka and lamb tagine. The historic Drill Hall building has been smartly refurbished and can seat 200 people downstairs whilst there is also a mezzanine for private dining. Pircio is open seven days a week, all day.
Drill Hall, Market Square
Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU 01279 898181
pirciorestaurant.com
No.14, in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is taking Asian Fusion dining and luxury to new heights in the town. No expense has been spared on the interior decor at this three-storey venue. An updated range of menus has been launched, with new à la carte, sushi and Sunday roast menus all available. On Tuesday, you can enjoy limitless sushi, and on Sunday both brunch and roasts are served. There is now also a DJ every Friday, Saturday and Sunday with live jazz every Thursday. Book the Chef’s Table for the best seats in the house.
14 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 597548 no-14.com
Meze Bar & Grill
Based in the former Old Star pub in Wormley, Broxbourne, Manto’s restaurant offers authentic Turkish cuisine with a modern twist, using only the finest ingredients for its dishes. Taking inspiration from the heritage of Turkey and ancient Mediterranean cooking techniques, Manto’s aims to celebrate regional flavours and give a true flavour of the Mediterranean. The restaurant is open seven days a week 12noon to midnight, offering lunch, food throughout the afternoon and dinner. The kitchen closes at 10pm.There is also free parking for customers.
32 High Road, Wormley EN10 6LE 01992 414301 mantosrestaurant.com
The Golden Fleece is an old English pub with a modern twist. Set in the pretty village of Braughing, Jess and Peter Tatlow’s pub has been a favourite for over 15 years. The menu is updated bi-monthly, allowing for fresh, seasonal and delicious locally-sourced food, and a specials board also offers changing dishes. The Fleece has an exceptional reputation, with plenty of choice for diners with gluten or dairy allergies and vegans/vegetarians, allowing everyone to enjoy a visit. A large, secluded garden with play area is perfect on warmer days or enjoy log burners on cooler ones.
20 Green End, Braughing SG11 2PG 01920 823555 goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk
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 a vegan menu. There is a set lunch menu (Tuesday-Saturday) and a set evening menu (Tuesday-Thursday) while superb roasts are served on Sundays. You can also book the private dining room for your group or family. Roni’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon, and closed on Monday.
16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856
ronisrestaurant.co.uk
