Axis magazine December 2021 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally December 2021 – Happy Christmas to all our readers!

INSIDE: YOUR GUIDE TO THE MONTH AHEAD IN THE NEWS

Locals defy the storm to celebrate festive season

SHOPPING NEWS

The new openings hoping to catch the Christmas rush

PROPERTY

The latest news plus new homes for sale

WHAT’S ON

Pick of the pantomimes, new films and the arts

FOOD & DRINK

The newly-opened café set in a police station

Your leading high quality local news magazine since 2003

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WELCOME

DECEMBER 2021 | NO. 227

What’s inside this issue ABOUT AXIS

05-13 y News round-up Residents turn out in force for Christmas launch events

14-23 y Shopping news The new businesses opening their doors in time for Christmas

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)

28-31 y What’s on Your guide to panto, film and art plus the artist making a splash on Sky Arts

32-35 y Food & drink Festive wine tastings plus the café offering a cop-uccino in the cells

PROPERTY, 24-27: THOMAS CHILDS & CO CELEBRATES A GREAT 2021: SEE PAGE 25 Front cover images (clockwise from top) Self portrait by Sarah Harvey who is appearing on Sky Arts’ Portrait Artist of the Year (p30); Wine tastings at Saffron Grange (p32); The work of the Secret Society of Hertford Crafters (p11); Ware Bear in Ware High Street (p13); Galloping horses at Van Hage, Great Amwell (p13); Under the Frozen Moon at Southern Maltings (p29); Darsah Home & Interiors in Hertford (p23).

SUBSCRIBE 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.

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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

Is there an end in sight to traffic chaos at Rush Green roundabout?

Proposals have been put forward aimed at dealing with the problems caused by traffic queuing to enter the McDonald’s drive-thru on Hertford’s Rush Green roundabout.

Following discussions with Hertfordshire County Council’s highways department, the fast food chain has submitted a planning application to East Herts Council proposing the creation of an additional section of lane alongside the existing two lanes of the roundabout to serve the drive-thru.

The new lane would have a coloured surface so that motorists can distinguish it from the main carriageway.

The plan also proposes the re-alignment of the B1502 north approach to the junction.

Local residents have long voiced their concerns about the dangers caused by vehicles entering, exiting and queuing to enter the services site which is also home to a BP filling station with an integrated Marks and Spencer foodstore.

At busy times, particularly during the evening rush hour, traffic attempting to enter the site sits in the inside lane of the roundabout, blocking access to the roundabout

Traffic queueing on the Rush Green roundabout by the entrance to McDonald’s drive-thru

from the B1502 Stanstead Road which runs from Ware Road.

Motorists heading up the A414 from Hertford will often enter the roundabout and suddenly find themselves in a stationary queue attempting to enter McDonald’s despite the area being an urban clearway where stopping is not allowed.

Recently, McDonald’s have tried to alleviate the situation by stationing

a member of staff outside the entrance to wave on traffic when the site is full.

The reaction to the plan from local residents who have commented on the planning application on East Herts Council’s website has been mixed. While many welcome any attempt to alleviate the problems in the area, others say the new lane will not accommodate enough cars to make much difference.

Others suggest proper enforcement of the clearway with cameras needs to be implemented.

Where to view the planning application You can view the planning application on East Herts Council’s website (eastherts.gov.uk).

Look for the planning applications section – the reference number is 3/21/2595/FUL.

Historic war memorials in Bishop’s Stortford and Hunsdon are given Grade II listing Church in Bishop’s Stortford was dedicated to 38 men of the parish who lost their lives in the war, was paid for by public subscription and unveiled on 23rd June 1920.

It features an ornately carved 15th century lantern cross which had previously stood at the south of the church. The lantern cross was removed around 1643 and stored in a number of places, including under the church floor and in the belfry, before being repurposed as a war memorial in the early 20th century.

Hunsdon war memorial, at the junction of High Street and Acorn

Street, features a granite Celtic wheel-head cross and was created

by Mr C Smith in the memory of 18 members of the local community who lost their lives in the First World War. It was unveiled on 21st November 1921 and dedicated by Bishop Hodges.

Historic photographs show that it was once enclosed by low posts and chains but these have since been removed.

A plaque later added to the memorial commemorates seven local people who died in the Second World War.

DAVID LARKIN

Two First World War memorials in East Herts were given Grade II listing ahead of Armistice Day last month by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, on the advice of Historic England.

Built in the aftermath of the war which lasted from 1914-1918, the memorials are among tens of thousands that were erected across the country in memory of those who lost their lives in the conflict.

In place of graves, these memorials became focal points for local communities to mourn and honour their dead.

The war memorial at St Michael’s

The war memorial at St Michael’s Church in Bishop’s Stortford axis magazine 5

BRIEFING

Children’s cancer charity Teens Unite has plans for retreat refused News that Broxbourne Council had turned down plans by Teens Unite to build a retreat in Goffs Oak, The House of Teens Unite, for young cancer sufferers has been met by surprise and disappointment by the charity and its supporters.

The decision, made by the council’s planning and regulatory committee in mid October, was made more difficult for the charity to accept as the council itself owns the three hectare green belt site in Barrow Lane close to Lieutenant Ellis Way. Having been working with the charity for some years to help it find a suitable piece of land, Teens Unite said the local authority had identified it as a possible location.

The charity was planning to purchase the land subject to successfully achieving planning consent.

While planning permission could never be taken as guaranteed, officers had recommended the plans for approval.

The charity was set up in 2007 by Debbie Pezzani and Karen Millen OBE who, while volunteering in local hospital wards had seen the impact that cancer diagnoses had on young people who would have no support other than direct family and medical staff treating them – often leaving them feeling alone and isolated.

Teens Unite provides support to young people aged 13-24 with a programme of activities along with residential stays that help them to develop friendships, improve their wellbeing and confidence and

An artist’s impression of the front and back of The House

learn new skills.

The purpose-built retreat house, in a countryside setting, is intended to provide its own accommodation for short residential stays plus space to offer activities along with office facilities for the charity.

Council decision To grant planning permission for development in the green belt very special circumstances need to be shown which could be said to outweigh the harm. In their report to the committee, officers said the fact that the council had been involved in the search for the site did not carry weight in that context.

However, having considered what was being proposed, officers had

said that on balance it could be seen as acceptable in principle and recommended approval.

Councillors, however, gave two reasons for refusing the plan, saying that the proposed development was “inappropriate within the green belt and by reason of its operation, nature and scale would result in significant material harm to the openness of the green belt, which would not be clearly outweighed by very special circumstances.”

Their second reason for refusal was that the applicant had not completed a planning obligation to regulate the delivery and operation of the development.

Teens Unite chief executive officer

Roxanne Lawrance said: “We have been working with individuals from across the council for the past five years to find a suitable piece of land, and the site at Barrow Lane was suggested as an option to us.

“Prior to the planning meeting, the council has always been supportive of Teens Unite and our plans for The House; we have consulted them about the scale of the build, the aesthetics and the use.

“We entered the planning meeting with a positive recommendation for the plans to be passed and understanding that we met the criteria for very special circumstances, so the outcome was incredibly disappointing.”

She said the facilities would make a huge difference to thousands of young lives.

The charity may appeal the decision but says its preferred route would be to work with the council to address concerns and resubmit an application in the new year.

Ms Lawrance added: “There has been so much excitement and enthusiasm surrounding the large data centre and global film studio which are set to be developed in the borough; and we hope that we can work collaboratively to also bring a leading care facility to this area too.”

A petition to show Broxbourne Council how much support there is for the centre has been set up by Ian Sharp who lost his son Matty to leukaemia at the age of 25.

Find it at change.org – search for Retreat for young people fighting cancer rejected by Broxbourne Borough Council.

Primary schools in Thundridge and Tonwell form federation to secure their futures The governors of Thundridge and Tonwell St Mary’s primary schools near Ware have agreed to form a federation of the two schools from April 2022.

This means that the two village schools will come together to work under one governing body with an Executive Headteacher at the helm, though both school buildings will be retained. It is a model which is used across the country and is becoming more popular in Hertfordshire.

The funding difficulties facing education are widely reported and 6 axis magazine

School leaders pictured after the decision to form a federation

smaller schools in particular struggle with this issue.

This change is intended to secure

financial sustainability through shared procurement and resourcing.

The partnership will also give staff and children opportunities to work together on curriculum development, sharing of staff expertise, joint trips and visitors and much more. Children have already competed as a joint team in a cross country event at Haileybury.

The governors hope that the federation will allow them to merge the benefits of small schools such as care, attention and individualised learning and those of large schools which often have a broad range of staff experience and greater budgets.

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BRIEFING

Hertford town centre officer Ausra says farewell after three and a half years Hertford has said farewell to its town centre officer, Ausra Bitinaite, who has worked tirelessly in recent years to improve the fortunes of the town and its traders.

An internal reorganisation at Hertford Town Council has led to her post being made redundant and Ausra left the council at the end of November.

In her three and a half years in the job, Ausra has led or taken part in organising a range of initiatives,

including the Hertford Christmas Gala, play days, town centre trails and the production of the Hertford Christmas Gift Guide.

She has also been an important liaison point between traders and the town council.

Ausra said: “I am very grateful for all the support and good wishes of the traders in Hertford who I have been so lucky to work with over the last few years, and I wish them all well for the future.”

Ausra Bitinaite pictured in Fore Street, Hertford

First chance for public to have their say on HERT, the sustainable public transport option set to transform cross-county travel

A first public consultation is underway to develop a scheme for the Hertfordshire Essex Rapid Transit (HERT) which is intended to make travel by public transport easier along the A414 corridor from east to west Hertfordshire and beyond.

The scheme, which Axis first reported on in July, is being championed by Hertfordshire County Council, which is currently working up a strategic outline business case to submit to the Department for Transport for funding in Spring 2022.

The idea is to launch a new sustainable public transport network that will carry more people than a car and be more convenient and reliable than a traditional bus.

What will the route be?

The route could run from Hemel Hempstead and Watford through St Albans, Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City, Hertford and Ware to Harlow and on to Stansted Airport. The new Gilston Garden Town, north of Harlow, would also be served by it.

The main east-west section is Hemel Hempstead to Gilston; while further sections would run from Gilston to Harlow (and on to Stansted Airport); and St Albans to Watford – a connection that is 8 axis magazine

currently served by the Abbey Rail Line.

Will it be a bus?

No decisions have yet been taken on the form of transport that will be used.

The first designs to be drawn up and shown to the public indicate a vehicle that could be either a tram or a bus – possibly on a so-called guided busway separate to existing roads – but no decisions on this will be taken at this stage and that is not even up for discussion during the first public consultation.

But the county council has said that its vision is for a zero-emission vehicle with a modern, comfortable and spacious design that is easy and accessible for all passengers to use.

The council says it will use detailed technical studies and further public engagement to look at how the

HERT will operate, the exact route it will take and the type of vehicles it will use. It also says it will work closely with Essex County Council to ensure that rapid and seamless journeys can be made across the entire rapid transit network.

What’s the consultation about?

The first consultation, which is open until 28th January 2022, seeks residents’ views on the principle, which towns should be served and information from them about their current cross-county travel behaviours.

How long will it take?

The project is expected to take several years to develop and will require substantial investment from both local and central government and the private sector before it comes to fruition.

The build time is likely to extend

to years too, with sections expected to be constructed at different times.

The leader of Hertfordshire County Council, Cllr Richard Roberts, said: “Sustainable travel is one of the most important aspects of our plans to create a cleaner, greener Hertfordshire, and investment in this new transport initiative marks a clear step forward in achieveving our aims.”

How can I take part in the consultation?

Full details of the consultation can be found on the council’s website, Hertfordshire.gov.uk. You can find it under the Consultations heading in the About the Council section at the foot of the first page of the site.

There are several online events scheduled as part of the consultation process that you can take part in too.

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BRIEFING

Happy Christmouse everyone – the yarnbombers are back!

The Secret Society of Hertford Crafters – aka the yarnbombers – have excelled themselves this year in their attempt to brighten up everyone’s Christmas and raise money for charity at the same time.

Their postbox toppers have become as much a part of the festive season as turkey and Christmas pudding over the last five years and were put up secretly over the final weekend of November around Hertford, Ware, Watton at Stone and Great Amwell.

This year, the yarnbombers have created giant festive baubles,

which are now adorning the main postboxes across the area. But there is an additional surprise this time… hiding inside each bauble is a miniature mouse-themed scene.

Each scene can be viewed through a mouse hole cut into the bauble.

You may have to look hard or even use a torch to see some of the amazing detail inside each one.

Some of the mouse themes include: l Brambly Hedge Mice, celebrating 40 years of publishing the Brambly Hedge series of children’s books; l Mice choristers in church; l Samaritans mice hard at work; l Mice postmen, to thank all the

postal workers and Royal Mail for supporting the SSOHC over the years; l Mexican mice; l Mice on a train (outside Hertford East station); l Mice shepherds and sheep; l Mice making a Christmas pudding.

The Secret Society of Hertford Crafters was formed in January 2017 and its installations have included the poppy cascade at Hertford Castle in 2018, Enchanted Wonderland in summer 2019, Hertford’s Advent Christmas Tree in 2019 and a joint venture with Scott’s Grotto in Ware this

summer. The group now has around 160 members who have a wide range of crafting skills, including knitters, crocheters, felters and quilters.

The society’s chosen charity this year is Herts & Essex (Ware) Samaritans, and all money raised from the event will go to the charity to help its vital work.

If you would like to show your appreciation of the yarnbombers’ work this Christmas, please make a donation to the Samaritans through the society’s website (ssohc.co.uk) or by using the link and QR code attached to each of the installations.

New video brings further festive cheer as it promotes reasons to love Hertford Also bringing some cheer to the local community in Hertford last month were duo Daniel Griffiths and Paul Crowley with their I Love Hertford video which was released on YouTube on Thursday 18th November.

Daniel is the founder of the I Love Hertford website and social media channels which feature the work of local designer and photographer Paul, and the pair teamed up to create the video to promote the

town and its community.

Everyone featured in it was asked to pick one aspect of the town that they love with responses including everything from its history to its independent shops and market, its rivers and open spaces and the generosity of its residents.

The five minute video features footage from Hertford Town Football Club, Mudlarks’ allotments, Hertford Theatre, Hertford Brewery and Hertford

St Andrew Church, and many more.

Daniel said: “Over the past two years, it’s fair to say we’ve been through a lot and with Christmas just around the corner, we thought what better opportunity to remind the people of Hertford how lucky we are to live in this community.”

You can find a link to the video on the website ilovehertford.co.uk or search for I Love Hertford on YouTube. axis magazine 11

BRIEFING

Undeterred by the weather, locals flock to enjoy Christmas events across the area

Hertford Christmas Gala brought the crowds into the town centre while the town’s Christmas Market drew many to the Castle grounds

Stallholders enjoy the Hertford Christmas Market

The freezing weather and strong winds that struck on the last weekend of November failed to dampen the spirits of the many thousands of people who attended Christmas shopping events in our town centres.

With so many events cancelled last year due to the pandemic, it seems local people weren’t going to let a bit of cold weather keep them inside.

Hertford hosted its Christmas Gala on Friday 26th November, with its first-ever three-day Christmas Market taking place in the grounds of the castle from Friday afternoon and through the weekend. Both events were organised by Hertford Town Council.

Hoddesdon’s Christmas Fayre Light-Up and Sawbridgeworth’s Christmas Fayre suffered the worst

There was fun for all the ages at Hertford’s Christmas Market 12 axis magazine

of the challenging weather conditions on the Saturday but hundreds of people ignored Storm Arwen to venture out and reward organisers from Love Hoddesdon BID and Sawbridgeworth Town Council respectively, though the Sawbridgeworth event did have to be cut short on safety grounds.

Ware’s Dickensian Evening does not go ahead this year but Ware Town Council have brightened up the town centre with their traditional colourful lanterns and extra festive lighting, as well as the giant Ware Bear in the High Street.

Bishop’s Stortford’s two Christmas events were both due to take place in the first week of December.

Photographer Alison Jenkins braved the cold to capture these images of a weekend of festive fun around the area.

Ware’s traditional lanterns have brightened up the High Street

Amwell End in Ware all lit up for Christmas

BRIEFING

They’re hardy folk in Hoddesdon... hundreds came out on Saturday 26th November to mark the town’s fayre and light-up event

Sawbo’s Santas

Sawbridgeworth residents braved the rain and wind to enjoy the festivities. Above, event organisers ensure Santa is firmly in place and isn’t able to fly off early to deliver presents...

Traditional galloping horses at Van Hage in Great Amwell

Ware Bear is offering photo opportunities in Ware High Street axis magazine 13

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT

Festive news from Bishop’s Stortford BID Season’s greetings from the Bishop’s Stortford BID team.

Thanks for all your support over the last year and we look forward to bringing you more town centre events and initiatives in 2022.

Spread joy and shop local Christmas shopping locally is a much more pleasant experience than battling the crowds at out-of-town malls. Come and discover everything the town centre has to offer: l Festive food and drink – There are plenty of options for all your Christmas gatherings. As well as large retailers, we’re lucky to have a local butcher, baker and fishmonger in town. l Gifts galore – You’ll find imaginative presents, without worrying about online stock issues and deliveries, and friendly staff for advice and inspiration. l Christmas socialising – There’s a great choice of restaurants, bars and cafés for every occasion.

Booking is recommended.

Christmas BRICKLIVE trail The BRICKLIVE trail is brightening up Bishop’s Stortford this Christmas. Find the 13 festive characters made of toy bricks, including a life-sized snowman, reindeer and Father Christmas.

Each one has a letter next to it – simply unscramble the letters to make a Christmas-themed word.

Then enter our free prize draw for your chance to win an iPad. Pick up a leaflet from Santa’s grotto in Jackson Square or the Tourist Information Centre.

One winner will be selected at

random after the trail ends on 4th January 2022.

For more information, visit discoverstortford.co.uk/events

Hassle-free car parking Parking in the town is always difficult at this time of year.

We suggest planning your visit to avoid peak times if possible – after 3pm is usually quieter.

The BID is funding parking marshals in Jackson Square car park on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in December and during the week before Christmas.

If a gridlock occurs, they will be available to assist.

This may involve closing the car park for a short time while they get traffic moving again.

Alternative short stay parking is available in The Causeway, Apton Road and Basbow Lane.

If you don’t have too much to carry, why not leave your car at home? It will reduce congestion and save you money.

Find out more Visit discoverstortford.co.uk for the latest news and information.

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

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Hoddesdon

Festive lights adorn the trees along Hoddesdon High Street; the Mayor of Broxbourne switches on the lights; the yarnbombed Jubilee Shelter

Hoddesdon continues to bounce back from the pandemic!

Recent data shows footfall levels are almost back to pre-Covid levels; the vacancy rate at 4.8% is significantly lower than both the regional and national levels; and several new businesses have opened in the town in the last few weeks! Much of this positivity about the town can be ascribed to Love Hoddesdon BID, the company representing the business improvement district covering the town centre.

Last month they assisted in the return of the Remembrance

Sunday parade to the town, as well as ‘dressing’ the local Garden of Remembrance, clocktower and war memorial to commemorate the occasion.

Then at the end of November, they delivered, in conjunction with Broxbourne Council, the Hoddesdon Christmas Fayre Light Up, a day-long event which featured a range of market stalls, children’s fairground rides, a programme of entertainments and the switching-on of the Christmas tree lights. Despite very bad weather, hundreds still turned out to support the town!

Local students to get involved with town plans Looking ahead to the New Year, Love Hoddesdon is looking to work with local young people by establishing a forum where representatives of each local secondary school meet as a sounding board on local issues, such as what they would like to see provided in the

town centre as it recovers from Covid; developing a greener Hoddesdon and developing a diverse arts, culture and heritage strategy, including improving the town’s subways. There will be several projects where students can get ‘hands-on’ if they wish.

Christmas events are not finished yet either, as local schools will entertain shoppers on market days with a Festival of Carols.

Then on Sunday 19th December the BID will help deliver open-air performances (at 11am, 1pm and 3pm) of the pantomime Aladdin in the town centre. This is free and you are encouraged to bring your own chairs and blankets for each 45-minute show.

Immediately after Christmas, there will be a New Year Street Fair, with fairground rides and stalls located in the town centre from Friday 31st December to

Tuesday 4th January.

This year’s Christmas lighting of the town is more spectacular than ever with an array of festive motifs on lampposts and trees lit up, whilst the clocktower is once again bathed in a green wash with lights like a giant Christmas tree.

The Jubilee Shelter hosts a special festive feature this year, as well as some very decorative yarnbombing from the Hoddesdon Crafty Ladies and friends.

There is also a 25ft Christmas tree sponsored by local restaurant Nonna’s Kitchen.

Book your place at the next business breakfast Love Hoddesdon BID is also once again holding ‘face to face’ monthly business networking breakfasts.

These are each hosted by a different venue in the town and attendees are provided with a great breakfast.

They are extremely popular and are open to representatives of all local businesses to attend at a cost of £8.

The next one is on Tuesday 14th December at 8am. If you are interested in attending email lovehoddesdon@outlook.com.

axis magazine 17

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Sparkle up your festive season!

Everything you need to look fab this Christmas from Hertford’s The Women’s Society Boutique Golden patterns, shiny sequins, high heels and that one special jewellery piece you just love. These selected pieces by owner Victoria make us excited about feeling feminine, glamorous and ready for a fabulous night out.

If you want to stay classy a gorgeous bold dress is always a great pick – the boho Leonie festive dress (Fabienne Chapot, £189.99) covered in golden flowers gives you that perfect amount of sparkle and a flattering waist.

For more of an edgy look, but without the shine, grab the versatile Alodora dress featuring a snake print and a V-neck (Soaked In Luxury, £89.99).

The silky feel maxi Riri dress (Sirens, £249) is an Art Nouveau inspired statement piece that will let your inner goddess out!

Adding a blazer to your outfit is always chic – style the Nami Megara sequin blazer (Soaked In Luxury, £79.99) with a casual top and black trousers on a ‘work to evening’ transition day.

Now pop on the pointed toe Josefin ankle boots (Fabienne Chapot, £189.99), the golden Celestial hearts ball bracelet (Bibi Bijoux, £29.99) and the Link chain necklace (Nour London, £54) with an organic shaped pearl, making it a unique piece that stands out.

Feeling like mixing things up?

Choose from one of these gorgeous tops: Maxime festive blouse (Fabienne Chapot, £159.99) or Miya pullover (Soaked In Luxury, £59.99) to pop over a pair of trousers or a skirt. Don’t miss out! Grab your

favourite combo now and collect double loyalty points throughout December on purchases in the Boutique.

Items mentioned are pictured in order from left to right from top row

“Never be seen in the same outfit twice” * *From our House Rules

Celebrating 15 years Love Hertford Awards 2021 Fashion Winner

The Women’s Society Boutique 2 St Andrew Street, Hertford, SG14 1JA 01992 500122 www.womens-society.co.uk Open Mon-Sat 10-5pm axis magazine 19

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Lifestyle store Vinegar Hill opens its doors in Bishop’s Stortford November saw the opening of the newest branch of lifestyle store Vinegar Hill in the unit at the front of Bishop’s Stortford’s Jackson Square Shopping Centre that was formerly home to Joules.

Vinegar Hill is an independent, family business which began life in Stratford Upon Avon in 1997 and which now has 11 shops in towns and cities across the UK as well as an online store.

It offers a carefully curated range of homewares, gifts, lifestyle products, clothing, jewellery and fashion accessories and is a great place, as anyone who’s paid the new branch a visit already will

have discovered, to find festive items for the home as well as fabulous Christmas gifts.

Seasonal lines include Christmas trees, lights and decorations, festive candles and matches, diffusers, books, games, cards and more.

The shop’s opening hours until Christmas are Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm and Christmas Eve 9am to 4pm.

Vinegar Hill 1 Potter Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UH 01279 886417 vinegarhill.co.uk

Call handling company marks 15 years and opens 2nd office A telephone call handling business based in Ware has just marked its 15th anniversary of providing services to its business clients.

Best Reception takes calls for hundreds of other companies when they can’t answer the phone themselves, and also handles diaries for clinics to make appointments and offers full switchboard services.

Having been founded in 2006 and based in Hertford for 19 years, Best Reception moved to offices at 82a High Street Ware two years ago and has just opened a second office in nearby Baldock Street too.

The business now employs around 20 axis magazine

30 people. The company staff learn about the businesses they represent, so they can answer the phone in the correct and agreed way, and deal with everything from high volume switchboard services for larger companies to simple message taking and call transferring.

Clients can use Best Reception to take all their calls or just as an overflow at busy times or when staff are not available. Different plans are available, starting from just £40 per month.

To find out more call 0800 0430084 or 01992 531000 or visit bestreception.co.uk.

NEW STORE FOR FORDES HOME As Axis went to press the finishing touches were being put in place ahead of the opening of a new flagship store in Bishop’s Stortford for Great Dunmow-based Fordes Home. The 23 North Street premises formerly home to Lathams will be a high street branch for James Ford’s home and lifestyle business which opened its first store on the Chelmsford Road Industrial Estate in Great Dunmow in July 2020. As well as furniture and soft furnishings, Fordes offers homewares and gifts including stationery, candles and chocolates.

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

The Hive, an organic, vegan hair salon, brings a new buzz to Hertford A new vegan and organic hair salon – The Hive – has opened in Hertford.

Based in Fore Street, The Hive works with the award-winning, sustainable company Natulique, whose products use the rawest possible ingredients in the belief that fewer chemicals offer better results. They are as near 100 per cent organic as possible.

The Hive’s owner Geri Williamson said: “We believe these products are better for the planet, better for our customers and better for our staff. There’s no ammonia, no sulphates and no parabens; we are finding our customers really love them.”

Hair services available include cutting, styling, colour, extensions and wedding hair and there is also a beauty room downstairs, where waxing and a sunbed are available, alongside Alexandra’s Aesthetics which offers filler treatments.

The Hive is managed day to day

by Laura Amoss, who has extensive experience in the hair industry, and she and Geri are

joined by creative stylist and hair care expert Zoe Deboick and Rose Sheppard. Geri’s daughter Tamsin will be joining the team after having a baby and Geri’s partner Nicholas Evans is her co-director.

Geri says that both great customer service and supporting the local community are important to her – she plans to raise money for local charities and wants to work with local schools to offer work experience to any students who are thinking about hairdressing as a career too.

The Hive 9 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1DA 01992 910143 thehivehertford.co.uk

Akasha Wellness founders enjoy success with activewear brand Best friends, fitness instructors and owners of local business Akasha Wellness, Nuala Barrett and Jo Webster are enjoying further success with their activewear brand Zozimus, launched last winter that has a new AW21 collection now on sale.

Nuala and Jo, who had originally met at university, launched Akasha Wellness seven years ago after careers in corporate law and working for global blue chip brands respectively.

A first studio at The Barley Barn at Wickham Hall in Bishop’s Stortford offering yoga and pilates classes plus a range of therapies was joined in 2019 by a second studio at Sucklings Yard in Ware offering Re-Form Pilates which uses special reformer beds imported from California to help develop core strength, fitness and flexibility in a way that is gentle on the body regardless of age, weight or fitness level.

In 2020 the pair launched

Zozimus (if you’re a Roald Dahl fan you’ll know that zozimus is the stuff that dreams are made of!), a brand of activewear designed to be flattering, affordable and stylish.

The 11-piece Autumn Winter 2021 collection builds on the brand’s staple pieces and includes leggings, ‘the foundation bra’ which is a blend of bra and tank, sweatshirts and vests.

Nuala said: “Since Jo and I first launched Zozimus at the end of last year, we’ve been overwhelmed by the response of our customers who have been so supportive of our brand, wearing head-to-toe Zozimus everywhere: gym classes, Zoom calls, catch ups with friends and everything in between.”

The range offers items in a variety of colours including blue, black, pink, navy and abstract prints and sizes from XS to L. It’s available online on the Zozimus website and is also stocked online at John Lewis. zozimus.co.uk

Founders Jo and Nuala

axis magazine 21

Meyer Williams Chartered Accountants

Helping to find effective solutions for your business

If you are looking for a team of reliable, approachable and proactive accountants who will do more than just respond to your needs but work alongside you to help you succeed you have come to the right place.

Whether you need the support of professionals who provide on-time effective solutions to help your business, or help with your personal or business taxes, we are here to help.

Our experienced team work hard to establish one-to-one relationships with our clients and are able to offer timely individual advice and guidance on how to improve your business and personal finances.

We can ease the burden by taking care of your bookkeeping and accounting needs, including the preparation of your annual accounts.

Please visit our website where you can find further details about us and discover what other services we offer.

Please call 01992 550721 to discuss your needs with one of our team, or to arrange a face-to-face chat, or a zoom conversation. We will be delighted to agree a day and time to suit you.

Meyer Williams Chartered Accountants Stag House, Old London Road Hertford SG13 7LA 01992 550721 www.meyerwilliams.com

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Martins’ opening brings a furniture store back to the centre of Hertford A new furniture shop has opened in Hertford, in The New Arcade in Railway Street.

Martins Furniture is the fifth store for this Hertfordshire-based business, following ones in Watford, Letchworth Garden City (where it has two) and Stevenage.

It will be the first time Hertford town centre has had a traditional furniture store since the closure of the long-established Marshalls in Fore Street three years ago.

The Railway Street shop was previously tenanted by Halfords.

Martins specialises in freestanding wardrobes from Germany which come in many different sizes and styles. Both delivery and assembly services are available too – nothing comes flat-packed. Martins have a quicker lead time from order than most bigger furniture stores, typically being delivered to you in 4-7 weeks – and at very keen prices.

Pretty much everything else you will find in-store is UK made.

Martins has a wide range of beds and mattresses together with chests

of drawers and bedside cabinets.

Again, these can be delivered and, where required, assembled for you.

You will also find a range of carpets, chairs, including rise and recliners, sofas and solid oak and pine furniture such as bookcases and cabinets.

For the kitchen, Martins sells kitchen tables and chairs – again, all in solid wood.

Owner Ady Miah established his first furniture shop 16 years ago in Watford’s St Albans Road and took over the name of Martins from the iconic Letchworth furniture store when it closed.

Part of the old Martins building still houses one of his shops now.

You will find something for every pocket at Martins including a budget range of wardrobe.

Ady also promises “top class customer service”.

Martins 1 The New Arcade, Railway Street, Hertford SG14 1SH 01992 550044 martinsfurniture.co.uk

Interior design team Darsah launch shop and showroom Darsah Home & Interiors has opened in Hertford, offering an interior design service and accessories for the home.

The business was started in 2016 as an interior design service by sisters Camilla Fordham and Lydia Premadasa, working with new home developers to design and furnish their showhomes as well as individuals wanting a design service.

Camilla says the new shop has two aims – to act as a luxury space where they can offer their interior design clients a true taste of their style in a showroom setting – and as a shop where people can come in and buy accessories.

Stock on display includes cushions, candles and diffusers, lamps, artwork and vases. You can also pick up a catalogue from which you can order other pieces.

The interior design service remains the main function of Darsah and Camilla and Lydia can help with everything from full kitchen and bathroom design to colour consultations and designing any room in the house from scratch.

Darsah is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm.

Darsah Home & Interiors 113 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1AS / 07979 147794 darsah.co.uk

Sisters Camilla and Lydia (top right) in their new Hertford showroom axis magazine 23

Park Lane Broxbourne Hertfordshire

For Sale: £1,595,000 Fine & Country are proud to offer to market this stunning detached residence. The deceptively large property is located in central Broxbourne and is within walking distance to mainline train links, local amenities and excellent schooling. The house offers a wealth of living space, outdoor pool and gated drive.

37 High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8TA • 01992 449 500 • hoddesdon@fineandcountry.com

PROPERTY NEWS

Thomas Childs & Co celebrates another successful year 2021 has been a busy year for Hertford estate agent Thomas Childs & Co, with annual targets smashed and staff numbers growing from three to five.

In that team, both Thomas Childs and Karen Newbury have been central to the business for many years.

Thomas was born and raised in Hertford and prides himself on his proven ability to perfectly match people to their ideal home.

Karen is a pillar of the local community, serving as chairwoman of Hertford Rugby Club, and always has her finger on the pulse of life in the town.

She heads up sales progression and works hard to make sure the process runs smoothly from start to finish.

Joining the team this year have been Kerry Stone, Emma Vuilio and Lucy Cooper.

Kerry recently changed careers to join Thomas Childs as the head of new homes and development and is already proving an asset to the team. She has over 30 years of customer service experience from working in the private aviation industry.

Emma runs property management on the lettings side of the business.

She works tirelessly to solve any issues and to ensure tenants are happy in their homes.

Having recently become an agent

Meet the team: Karen Newbury, Lucy Cooper, Kerry Stone, Emma Vuilio and Thomas Childs

for the lettings team she is now also happily matching clients to their new rental homes.

Before joining Thomas Childs, Lucy worked with a number of local businesses to help with their marketing and social media activity.

She now runs administration – if you call the office, she will be the one to answer the phone!

Looking forward to the New Year, Thomas Childs said: “We are

excited for our community to get to know the new team in 2022.

We pride ourselves on our ability to sell properties both on and off the market.

“We are a professional team ready to help our vendors find their ideal buyers, and our customers to find their ideal homes. We will support you through the entire process, from walking you through an open house to your final completion, because we understand the role

Countryside releases its latest phase of Base at Newhall

Developer Countryside has released its latest collection of new homes at Base in Newhall, close to Harlow.

The new release comprises a range of one and two bedroom apartments with outdoor space; three and four bedroom houses

and a two bedroom coach house.

Newhall is a growing urban village on former farmland just a short drive from Harlow town centre.

New homes are being built by several developers. Countryside’s Base was launched in 2019, and is being delivered in phases. It will ultimately provide 993 new properties.

The masterplan for Newhall emphasised the importance of green space to the overall development and in line with this 40% of Base will be dedicated to green space, leaving no home more than 60 metres from parkland or greenery and offering the best of both urban and country living.

The first homes at Base proved popular with both those moving

out of London in search of space and longstanding locals and there is already a well-established community of residents. Facilities include a new Co-op, beauty salon and café while a central plaza offering shops, library and health centre will be delivered by Newhall Projects as well.

The latest properties at Base feature striking contemporary architecture, adaptable layouts, generous kitchens with high quality integrated appliances and large feature windows. All have a private parking space.

Prices start from £235,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.

For more information, visit basenewhall.co.uk or call the team on 01279 881649.

of estate agencies should not end when the property is sold.

“We all live in the local area and love Hertford, which is why we are confident we are well placed to help our clients find their ideal home.”

Thomas Childs & Co 9-13 Parliament Square, Hertford SG14 1EX 01992 721321 thomas-childs.com

DURKAN BUYS HERTFORD MILL SITE

Durkan, the Borehamwood-based housebuilder currently building The Stiles development in Bengeo, has bought the former Hertford Mill site in Tamworth Road and will develop it into 49 new homes.

Durkan acquired the site with planning consent already in place from local company Tappenden and Co. The developer says it plans an architecturally striking and eyecatching modern scheme with specially selected materials that have been inspired by the area’s industrial history.

New properties will include 32 three and four bedroom homes and 17 one and two bedroom apartments with construction set to begin on site in Spring 2022. axis magazine 25

SEASON’S GREETINGS from Chase New Homes

SCHOLARS, BROXBOURNE

ST EDWARD’S GATE, CUFFLEY

A development of 3, 4 & 5-bedroom houses and stylish 2-bedroom apartments located adjacent to The Broxbourne School.

An exclusive private, gated development of 4 & 5 bedroom family homes, perfectly located between Cuffley and Goffs Oak and adjacent to woodland.

Houses from £604,995 Apartments from £455,000

Prices from £995,000

Contact Hamptons for more information or to book an appointment to view our Showhome.

Contact Statons for more information or to book an appointment to view our Showhome.

scholars@hamptons.co.uk

newhomes@statons.com

07496 885586

020 8441 9555

LEA WHARF, HERTFORD

ONE ONE SIX, COCKFOSTERS

A collection of wharf-style 1 & 2-bedroom apartments situated on the banks of the River Lea in the heart of Hertford.

Coming Soon – A collection of 1 & 2-bedroom apartments with excellent residents’ facilities including concierge, residents’ lounge, rooftop sky terraces with views towards the City, a gym and large-screened cinema.

Apartments from £294,995 Contact Lanes Exclusive Homes to register your interest.

Contact Lanes Exclusive Homes to register your interest.

leawharf@lanesexclusivehomes.co.uk

oneonesix@lanesexclusivehomes.co.uk

01992 940955

0208 059 0311

chasenewhomes.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

PLACES TO GO, THINGS TO DO

Panto, it’s a family ritual at Christmas – which one will you see?

Beauty and the Beast Wyllyotts Theatre, Potters Bar Wyllyotts Theatre at Potters Bar is hosting that classic panto tale Beauty and the Beast featuring a baddie wanting boos, goodies with some gags, a heroine in hot water – not to mention a handsome prince!

Book to see this spectacular adventure as Dame Derriére and

Potty Pierre cause chaos at the chateau.

Beauty and the Beast is showing from Friday 17th to Friday 31st December with performances generally at 1pm and 5pm daily.

Tickets are £17 to £22.50 depending on the date.

Robin Hood Harlow Playhouse Harlow Playhouse celebrates its 50th year with Robin Hood, the Greatest Pantomime Adventure, from Friday 3rd December to Sunday 2nd January. The Harlow Playhouse panto never fails to delight and will feature hilarious comedy, dazzling dance routines and spectacular sets and

costumes. The arrow-shooting heroic outlaw Robin Hood is played by Jamie Jukes (back by popular demand for his third year at Harlow Playhouse), who will be starring alongside Harlow favourites Ben Parsley and Jimmy Burton Iles. Tickets are from £16.

wyllyottstheatre.co.uk 01707 645005

harlowplayhouse.co.uk 01279 431945

Rapunzel South Mill Arts, Bps Stortford South Mill Arts hosts the lovely Rapunzel this year, featuring everything from a tap dancing horse to a wicked witch. This vibrant, magical adventure features many of the elements of a traditional panto that the whole family will love. The show will set the stage alight with an

eclectic mix of music, beautifully choreographed dance routines and comedy that will have everyone laughing from the moment the curtain rises. Rapunzel is performed from Saturday 4th December to Sunday 2nd January and tickets start from £20.

Under the Frozen Moon Southern Maltings, Ware Hertford Theatre, which is closed for rebuilding, has collaborated with theatre company Half a String to put on a magical, immersive festive show, Under the Frozen Moon, in the intimate, atmospheric surroundings of Southern Maltings in Ware.

Immerse yourself in the ice-cold,

snowy world of Lunavik, where even the moon is frozen. A greedy dragon has gobbled up every fire and every light, leaving only the white glow of the frozen moon.

The show, which includes some amazing puppets, runs from Tuesday 14th December to Monday 3rd January. Tickets £15.

southmillarts.co.uk 01279 710200

hertfordtheatre.com axis magazine 29

WHAT’S ON

Sky’s the limit for portrait artist inspired by a Tuscany swimming pool Sawbridgeworth-based artist Sarah Harvey is through to the semi-finals of Sky Arts’ current series of Portrait Artist of the Year.

Sarah won her heat of the TV competition, which seeks to find the UK’s best portrait painter, with a stunning contemporary watercolour of the fashion designer and model Alexa Chung.

The artist, who built her own studio in Sawbridgeworth, now paints full time after spending nine years fitting in her painting time around her three children.

Born in London, Sarah completed her education at Chelsea School of Arts and Newcastle University.

While she was at Newcastle, in 2003, she won the Bartlett Travel Scholarship; something that was to influence her future artistic direction. On her travels Sarah visited Florence and surrounding areas of Tuscany and it was during that trip that she saw a green swimming pool that has inspired much of her work to date, which is primarily painting figures under water.

She shows her paintings internationally and has had solo exhibitions in Singapore, Australia, London, Bath and Dublin and has also had work in other exhibitions around the world.

During the Covid lockdown last year, Sarah began painting portraits free for NHS workers, eventually completing around 20 which she sent to doctors and nurses.

During this time, she also decided to take up watercolour and was urged to apply for the Sky Portrait Artist of the Year show. Sarah said: “I did so under peer pressure, not thinking I would get called!”

Her work can be viewed online at sarahharvey.co.uk and in person at her Mallard Studio – contact Sarah through her website to make an appointment.

Main picture: Falling Pleasure, oil on canvas; Sarah in her studio; Liquid Universe, oil on canvas.

Bottom left: Self portrait, watercolour

Sarah’s work, in her own words: “My paintings of figures floating are predominantly self-portraits. I aim to create paintings that arouse both a sense of wellbeing and pleasure, whilst simultaneously suggesting notions of insecurity, fantasy and sexuality. Entirely suspended by the water, the human forms are fragmented by the ripples and swirls created by the water, abstracting them, and often with implausible results such as the appearance of disfiguration or distortion.

“I have become increasingly excited about the abstract elements in these works, and the interplay between light, colour and water. The emerging patterns are becoming more apparent and dominant, drawing the eye not only towards the main focal point of the human form, but also to the surrounding areas, which are of equal significance.”

Gallery at Parndon Mill offers artistic gifts for Christmas Present Arts, The Gallery at Parndon Mill’s Christmas exhibition, is showing at the Harlow gallery until Thursday 23rd December. The exhibition features high quality works of art at affordable prices that would make ideal Christmas gifts. Work includes ceramics, glass, jewellery, paintings and prints, as well as individual cards and handmade decorations. Parndon Mill is in Parndon Mill Lane, off Elizabeth Way, Harlow CM20 2HP. Visit parndonmill.co.uk for information on opening times. Entry is free.

30 axis magazine

WHAT’S ON

Festive films: From Clifford The Big Red Dog to Spider-Man

Boxing Day (12A) Out on Friday 3rd December Melvin, a British author living in America, returns home to London for the holidays (well, why wouldn’t you?) to introduce his American fiancé (Lisa) to his somewhat eccentric BritishCaribbean family. But their relationship is put to the test in this romantic comedy as she discovers the world Melvin left behind revolves around his ex-girlfriend (Georgia) who is now an international pop star!

West Side Story (12A) Out on Friday 10th December Steven Spielberg directs this adaptation of the famously successful 1957 musical, exploring forbidden love across the divide and the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds. Poignantly, the film is released just weeks after the death, at the age of 91,

Casey go on the run with Clifford to avoid them, and the big dog touches the lives of everyone they come into contact with.

Darby Camp, John Cleese, Sienna Huillory and Jack Whitehall star.

Perfect festive fare.

It’s dinner time for Clifford The Big Red Dog

of Stephen Sondheim, who wrote the lyrics to Leonard Bernstein’s music.

Clifford The Big Red Dog (PG) Out on Friday 10th December Clifford is a very big red dog.

The faithful friend of middle

school pupil Emily was a small puppy when first introduced to her by a magical animal rescuer but in her New York apartment he becomes gigantic, attracting the attention of a genetics company looking to super-size animals. Emily and her Uncle

Spider-Man: No Way Home (TBC) Out on Friday 17th December With Tom Holland, Zendaya and Benedict Cumberbatch. When Spider-Man’s identity is revealed, his superhero role is compromised and Peter Parker’s friends are put in danger. Spidey enlists Doctor Strange’s help to restore his secret, but his spell tears a hole in the universe, unleashing the most powerful villains who’ve ever fought a Spider-Man in any universe. Peter faces his greatest challenge yet, which will alter the future of the Multiverse.

Still with me? Well done; it’s nearly as confusing as this year’s Doctor Who series.

What’s on before Christmas WARE CHORAL CONCERT Ware Choral Society presents Joyeux Noel, a Christmas concert with a French touch, at The Drill Hall, Amwell End, Ware on Saturday 11th December at 7.30pm, to include carols for choir and audience. Tickets, all unreserved, are £15 and can be obtained by email to pauline@ warechoral.org.uk, from society members or on the door.

HSO CHRISTMAS CONCERT Hertford Symphony Orchestra holds its Christmas concert the next day, Sunday 12th December at 3pm, also at The Drill Hall in Ware. It will feature a world premiere of Sounds of the Forest

by Margaret Holter plus four carols by Hertford and Ware primary school pupils and traditional carols for the audience to join in with too. Tickets are £14 for adults, £6 for children and students, £34 family, online at wegottickets.com or from Hertford Town and Tourist Information Centre in The Wash, Hertford (01992 584322).

Hertford Symphony Orchestra

CHRISTMAS FAIR A Christmas fair will be held at St Augustine’s Church and Parish Centre on Saturday 11th December from 2.30-4.30pm, featuring stalls and children’s activities.

At 4.30pm the tree will be lit and there will be refreshments and carol singing outside. It’s in Churchfields, Broxbourne.

POP-UP PANTO Aladdin, a pop-up pantomime, will be staged free in Hoddesdon town centre, next to Fawkon Walk, on Sunday 19th December, with 45-minute performances at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Coming to Southern Maltings, SG12 7BS 14 December 2021– 3 January 2022

Book at hertfordtheatre.com axis magazine 31

FOOD & DRINK

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS

Pre-Christmas day out? Try sparkling wines at Saffron Grange vineyard Family-run vineyard Saffron Grange, just outside Saffron Walden, is celebrating its biggest ever harvest.

With help from volunteers from the local community and beyond, Saffron Grange harvested over 25 tonnes of exceptional quality grapes including Seyval Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and its first ever crop of Pinot Gris.

This year’s harvest marked an eight-fold increase in the vineyard’s yield in just five years!

Saffron Grange wines are available through local retailers, online and in the vineyard’s on site shop which also offers gifts and treats making it perfect for a pre-Christmas visit.

Its new vineyard bar offers Try Flights for just £8.50 per person allowing you to sample three award-winning sparkling wines – either simply to enjoy or with a view to buying wine as a gift or

for the festive table.

Saffron Grange is also holding Festive Sip and Learn tasting sessions during December, at a cost of £25 per person.

These are festive-themed tutored tasting sessions, with nibbles and exclusive offers for last-minute Christmas gifts. Check the website for the latest available dates.

Saffron Grange is also offering vineyard tour vouchers for 2022 at £20 each, allowing the recipient to book onto a vineyard tour and tasting session between April and October.

Opening times up to Christmas are Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm and 10am to 12noon on Christmas Eve. Saffron Grange Vineyard is at Rowley Hill Farm, Little Walden, Essex CB10 1UZ. Call 01799 516597 or visit saffrongrange.com for more information.

Wine tasting event at Hertford Museum Another festive wine tasting event will be taking place in Hertford this month.

Ritchie Tough from Hertford wine shop Cavavin who, of course, writes a monthly wine column in Axis (see page 34 of this month’s issue for a slight

deviation onto whiskies!) will take place in Hertford Museum on Wednesday 8th December.

Tickets are £15 per person – booking essential through ticketsource.co.uk.

The museum is at 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT.

Sourdough pizza specialist Franco Manca plans to open in Stortford The former Bill’s restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford’s North Street looks set to become a branch of pizza chain Franco Manca.

Bill’s closed its doors in March last year at the beginning of the first Covid-19 lockdown but while other branches re-opened the Bishop’s Stortford branch 32 axis magazine

remained shut.

Franco Manca have submitted plans to East Herts Council seeking permission to make internal alterations to the building at 15 North Street which would allow it to be converted into the latest in its successful chain of sourdough pizzerias.

The company began life in 2008 in Brixton Market before expansion saw new branches open first in Chiswick, across London and in a number of major UK cities and towns including Leeds, Manchester and Cambridge.

It uses ‘properly sourced’

seasonal ingredients from small suppliers. Dough for its restaurants’ Neopolitan style pizzas is made daily on site and restaurants offer a selection of pizzas competitively priced at between £5 and £10, salad and Italian-style desserts. Find out more at francomanca.co.uk.

FOOD & DRINK

A coffee shop in a police station? Now there’s an arresting idea

Charity Teens Unite opens Jailbreak Café and Shop in decommissioned Hoddesdon Police Station Teenage cancer charity Teens Unite has come up with an arresting plan to make up for income lost during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as make use of Hoddesdon’s empty former police station building.

The site in the High Street has been generously donated for the charity’s use by local businessmen Anthony Charles and Lee Charles, owners of Capitalise Holdings, and Teens Unite has recently relocated its headquarters from Broxbourne to the building.

Co-founder Debbie Pezzani was determined to come up with a way of utilising the unique space and after months of hard work from volunteers, the doors have been unlocked to The Jailbreak Café and Shop.

Visitors can now experience the inside of the decommissioned police station site from a new angle. The original detainee check-in desk is now the café serving counter, the detention cage is now a heated outside seating area, and the former cells and interview rooms are now individual seating areas where

you can enjoy a range of food and drink. Cushions, blankets and flowers mean you’ll find more comfort in the cells than past occupants might have enjoyed!

The area previously used for taking mugshots and fingerprints has even been turned into the perfect spot to take a selfie if you’re keen to check in on social media and share news of your (temporary) apprehension at the police station with others!

Cop-uccino anyone?

The café offers toast and teacakes, a range of toasted panini that include ham and cheese, tuna and sweetcorn and brie and cranberry, and a daily selection of cakes.

There’s Lavazza coffee served as everything from a “mugshot espresso” to an “absconder’s Americano”, “criminal’s cappuccino” and even a “juvenile’s babycino”, along with Clipper tea, hot chocolate, cold drinks and snacks that can be enjoyed either as an ‘inmate’ or ‘runaway’ if you’d prefer to take-away.

Mince pies are also available this month and over the festive period.

Also on site is the Jailbreak Shop selling a range of new clothes, homewares and accessories along with make-up and cosmetics from brands including Benefit, Chanel and Bobbi Brown, all at a fraction of their original cost.

Jailhouse rock cake The café is open from 9am to 1pm Mondays to Fridays, the shop from 9am to 3pm on the same days. There are plans to extend these hours in the new year.

The charity is hoping the local community will pop by and offer their support to both initiatives.

Teens Unite’s chief executive officer Roxanne Lawrance said: “It has been amazing to welcome the community to Teens Unite with the opening of The Jailbreak Café and Shop. This is a real milestone for us, so thank you to everyone who has been involved in the opening of our new venture.

“We’re a small charity making a big difference and we are still trying to bridge the funding gap we’ve experienced over the last 20 months due to the pandemic.

“We really need local residents and businesses to support our new café and shop so that more young people fighting cancer can benefit from the work we do.”

Coffee and cake in aid of such a good cause? Surely it would be criminal to pass up that opportunity! l You will find the café and shop at: The Old Hoddesdon Police Station, Hoddesdon Gateway, High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BJ.

axis magazine 33

FOOD & DRINK

THE WINE SHOP Discover our exclusive range of products on our website: www.cavavin.co.uk/hertford Local & Nationwide Delivery and Click & Collect available Weddings, Trade Accounts and Corporate Events

The Whisky Column

By Ritchie Tough of Cavavin

We don’t just sell wine…

Why Japanese whisky is a far from risky choice Regular readers will notice that we have temporarily renamed this column from wine to whisky this month as the festive season approaches.

There is a very good reason for this – as this month’s column is an educational one for whisky lovers!

Now I realise that for many people, whisky is only whisky if it comes from Scotland (or Ireland is you prefer an “e” in your whiskey). But there are other options...

Decades ago, both local and international interest in Japanese whisky was low.

But the standard of these whiskies is extremely high, with the Japanese going to the extraordinary lengths of importing the peat and copper pot stills to replicate the Scottish style.

This attention to detail has got the world falling in love with Japanese fire water sending prices skyrocketing.

Many Japanese distilleries have discontinued their age statements, but the dropping of age statements doesn’t always translate into lower quality. In fact, the country’s best blenders have risen to the challenge of creating a great assemblage from a restricted inventory. Less is definitely more!

Here at Cavavin, we stock a good range of both Japanese whiskies and other selected spirits. Our customers’ favourite is the Nikka from the Barrel – the nose is medium-body with good balance. There are notes of cut flowers and fresh fruits, spice and a little oak. Palate is full-bodied and punchy. There is plenty of winter spice and toffee, a little caramel and vanilla and a good mouthful of fruit. Perfect for a winter warmer...

Happy Christmas everyone!

…try these great Japanese whiskies and other selected spirits In store, or order online: www.cavavin.co.uk/hertford 22 Maidenhead Street, Hertford SG14 1DR 01992 558311 sales@cavavin.co.uk Tuesday to Saturday: 10am-5pm Sunday and Monday: 12pm-5pm 34 axis magazine

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 and award-winning Indian restaurant Saffron in Hoddesdon has been widely recognised.

This stylish restaurant is a contemporary venue in which both traditional and unique Indian dishes can be enjoyed alongside superb service. It can cater for both large gatherings and more intimate dinners and also offers an outside catering service.

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

Nestled in the picturesque village of Great Amwell, The George IV is one of Hertfordshire’s best kept secrets. Enjoy imaginative, freshly prepared dishes, including traditional pub classics, served in a friendly pub atmosphere.

The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event. From intimate weddings, birthday parties and anniversaries to baby showers and corporate events, they’ve got it covered with their beautiful function room and variety of dining options.

Call now for Christmas bookings.

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

FOX AND HOUNDS Restaurant & The Fox Shop & Deli

ERMAN’S KITCHEN Turkish

THE BEEHIVE Country Pub

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.

This family-run restaurant in Old Harlow opened in 2020 and is looking forward to a busy and successful Christmas.

Erman’s Kitchen 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.

This family-run country pub has reopened with a complete new look following a Lockdown renovation that included a major extension, creating new modern facilities which blend well with its historic character. The new look is already proving popular with regulars who enjoy a menu that is heavy on fresh fish and seafood but also includes grill dishes such as burgers and steaks as well as vegan and vegetarian options. It also offers a great Sunday lunch menu.The Beehive is open seven days a week – book now to experience its fresh new look!

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

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

Epping Green, near Hertford SG13 8NB 01707 875959 beehiveeppingreen.co.uk axis magazine 35

9-13 Parliament Square n Hertford n SG14 1EX

EXPECT MORE n FROM YOUR n ESTATE AGENT

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