Axis magazine July 2020 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally JULY 2020

AT LAST Our high streets reopen: Support your local shops now – special feature inside / Shopping

A bright future for Hertford town centre: Bircherley Green plans are finally approved / News

We can get out and about again: Discover some great venues to enjoy this summer / What’s on

Your leading high quality local news magazine since 2003

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WELCOME

JULY 2020 | NO. 210

ABOUT AXIS

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

MAGAZINE COLLECTION POINTS & SUBSCRIBING

If you don’t receive Axis magazine through your letterbox there are two ways of getting hold of a copy each month...

Suppor ting our local communit y At last, as our front cover so succinctly puts it this month, life is beginning to return to some sort of normality, with most shops now open, outdoor venues welcoming visitors again and, from this month, pubs and restaurants being allowed to open once more. Since we launched Axis back in 2003, the magazine has been all about supporting our local community. So in this issue, as well as our regular high quality news coverage, you will find a feature promoting independent businesses and part II of our printed art exhibition publicising local artists. Enjoy!

Aar on Grans by and Jus tine Woods , Publishers This month’s front cover images (from left to right): The Mayor of Hertford, Councillor Bob Deering, shows his support for local retailers to launch Hertford Town Council’s Love Hertford Local campaign; The Lea Wharf development at Bircherley Green; A day out in the grounds of Hatfield House, which are now open again.

ADVERTISE NOW TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS AND HELP I T BOUNCE BACK As businesses begin to emerge from lockdown, it will be absolutely vital to promote what you do. Axis has been established as THE high quality local print magazine for 17 years and, as an independent local business ourselves, we really understand how to work with you to make your advertising effective.

Call us now to adve r tis e in our Augus t is s ue on 01992 500198 or e mail adve r tis ing@ax is publications . co. uk

1 SUBSCRIBE For just £20 per year (we don’t make money from this, it’s just to cover the cost of postage) we’ll send you your own copy on the day of publication each month.

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

2 PICK UP A COPY We make free copies available for pick-up at the beginning of each month at a number of venues including major retailers, arts & leisure facilities, restaurants & pubs. Call us for details of your nearest stockist.

CONTACT US

Axis Magazine, Tooke House, 20 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT 01992 500198 info@axispublications.co.uk axismagazine.co.uk PUBLISHERS: Aaron Gransby & Justine Woods Axis is published by Axis Publications Ltd

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BRIEFING

NEWS WORTH KNOWING

Bircherley Green: It’s all systems go after council approves plans

Six years on from first scheme being announced, Hertford town centre will finally have a new heart A bright new future lies ahead for the centre of Hertford where the derelict Bircherley Green shopping centre has been a blight on the town for several years.

Councillors on East Herts Council’s development management committee voted 11 to one at the end of June in favour of approving Chase New Homes’ plans to redevelop the site.

Their decision to give the green light to the scheme brings to an end a saga which has lasted some six years since the shopping centre’s previous owners, Diageo, first announced plans for its redevelopment. They later emptied it of tenants in preparation, but then ultimately abandoned it, saying it wasn’t economically viable to proceed, before selling the site on.

Lea Wharf Chase New Homes, based just down the road at Welwyn Garden City, bought it last year and plan to build a whole new centre, renaming it Lea Wharf, with a wharf/warehouse design style.

It will have new commercial units at ground floor level in a mall that leads down from Railway Street to the riverside.

There will be 98 apartments

above, a new hotel on the corner of Bircherley Street and Railway Street and the bus station and car park are to be refurbished.

Discussions are also well advanced on plans for an NHS super-surgery within the development.

Pragmatism wins the day While a number of councillors said there were elements of the scheme that they might not be altogether happy with, they were prepared to be realistic, understanding that what was before them represented the best chance of seeing the site redeveloped.

One sticking point, which led to Councillor Jeff Jones deciding he was unable to vote in favour of the development, was a conclusion, supported by independent assessors, that unless the economic viability of the development improved to a significant extent, Chase would not be required to provide any social housing within the scheme, or make a financial contribution towards local services (this is the norm with large applications and is called a Section 106 agreement).

But it is generally accepted that the retail climate had worsened between Chase buying the site and submitting its application, while

the Covid-19 pandemic has made the value of retail to the scheme even lower still.

Chase will be reliant on the housing element to make the overall scheme viable.

While she is not a member of the planning committee and could not vote, Councillor Suzanne RutlandBarsby spoke at the meeting in her capacity as a local ward member and urged her fellow councillors to support the scheme in the interests of the “attractiveness and viability” of the town centre.

She said: “Now is the time for pragmatism. I appeal to you as a local member and Hertford resident of 50 years plus. One developer has already walked away from this site. The viability has been tested by experts and there is no breathing room. There is a danger that if the scheme before you tonight is not approved then the site will continue to be left derelict … this will blight our town as it additionally struggles to recover from the truly horrific and unprecedented impact of Covid-19. Hertford will remain without its heart, probably for many years to come. I urge members to support this application.”

After they had done so, Chase

New Homes immediately promised “spades in the ground” by the end of August.

What happens next Demolition work will begin soon although the first building to rise will be on the area of the site that was already cleared by the previous developer.

That will be the hotel, which should start to come out of the ground by the end of the year.

Premier Inn, who the week before had restated their commitment to the site, are expected to sign a lease for the building imminently.

Agreement is also expected soon on the NHS super-surgery.

If all goes to plan Chase say the whole development should be completed in three years at the most, though they are looking at ways to achieve completion earlier.

Planning director Alan Ward said: “We’re absolutely ecstatic that the planning committee have shown faith in our scheme and design.

“We have every intention of creating a development that is suitable for the town and of real benefit to Hertford town centre.

“We are going to embrace this opportunity to build something architecturally unique that will enhance the feel of the town.” axis magazine 5

BRIEFING: BLACK LIVES MATTER PROTESTS

Petitions call for arts centre to be renamed as Rhodes backlash grows Just how global a society we live in became evident last month when the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis back in May sparked demonstrations, events and calls for an end to racial inequalities across Hertfordshire.

In Bishop’s Stortford, as well as two peaceful gatherings on successive Saturdays under the Black Lives Matter banner, there were calls for a change of name for the town’s arts complex, Rhodes.

The South Road venue is named after the 19th century businessman, politician and colonialist Cecil Rhodes who was born at Netteswell House which, along with a modern extension, forms the current complex of theatre, cinema and museum in South Road. The nearby street Rhodes Avenue is also named after him as is a house at Bishop’s Stortford High School.

Who was Cecil Rhodes?

The son of a vicar, Cecil Rhodes moved to Africa as a teenager.

He worked first in the cotton industry but went on to make his fortune in diamond mining, forming the De Beers diamond firm that was responsible for most of the world’s production.

He entered politics and later became Prime Minister of the Cape Colony.

His view that the Anglo Saxon race was the finest in the world and that the more of the world it inhabited the better it would be for all, and his annexing of huge areas of land in South Africa to this end, make him a hugely controversial figure.

Critics say he was a racist who, by changing voting and land ownership laws in South Africa, paved the way for apartheid.

The renaming row There are three online petitions calling for the Rhodes Arts Complex to be renamed. The organiser of one, Rhys Giles, said: “Cecil Rhodes was a horrible, murderous racist. Many of the problems of Southern Africa are almost solely due to his legacy… Are we supposed to be proud of this man? What other reason is there to keep this name in place… It spits in the face of any person of colour who has to enter that building. I’m not proud, I’m ashamed.”

The Rhodes Birthplace Trust, which runs the arts venue, responded saying that work was already underway that could ultimately see it rebranded. With a new arts centre planned by East Herts Council at Old River Lane in the town, there will be a change of focus at South Road.

The trust is already converting

itself into a new organisation to be called The Bishop’s Stortford Museum and Arts Charitable Incorporated Organisation and says that once this was complete, the intention had always been to consult local residents on a name for the operating organisation and venue.

The headteacher of Bishop’s Stortford High School, Dale Reeve, said that discussions had been taking place prior to lockdown as to whether the use of Rhodes as a name for one of its six houses should continue.

He said in the light of recent events the issue would be revisited with the student body as part of its remote learning programme.

Cecil Rhodes and, above, Netteswell House where he was born and which is now part of Rhodes Arts Complex

How ‘a couple of racist idiots’ led to Hoddesdon hitting the headlines In Hoddesdon news that a Black Lives Matter protest was planned on Monday 8th June appeared to spark a rumour that the town’s war memorial might be at risk of damage, leading to a gathering of counter protesters in the town centre.

While in the most part the event passed off peacefully, the market town unfortunately found itself catapulted into the national news headlines after a number of hecklers were witnessed, and filmed, shouting racist abuse at the BLM protesters.

After arguments raged on social media the Love Hoddesdon Business Improvement District took down a thread from its own 6 axis magazine

Facebook page in an attempt to defuse the situation.

In a statement posted online BID chairman Kevin Brooks said “lazy and inaccurate reporting” had focused on the actions of “a couple of stupid racists shouting abuse, who as far as we are aware are not connected with the town”.

He said the coverage “reflects unfairly on our lovely town” and urged people not to make further comments.

An online petition calling for Hertfordshire Police and Broxbourne Council to investigate attracted more than 120,00 signatures. Hertfordshire Police said it was investigating.

The point is made politely at Hertford

Hertford hosts BLM talent showcase More laid-back scenes were witnessed in the county town after the Black Lives Matter movement chose Hertford to host a talent showcase on Hartham Common on the afternoon of Thursday 18th June. In an event

intended to be very different to a traditional protest, several hundred supporters, blankets and picnics in hand, settled down on the grass from mid-afternoon in front of a stage to enjoy live music, poetry and speeches.

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BRIEFING

Mayors and Chairs: Meet your first citizens for the year ahead

Proud to be representing our local communities: Annelise Furnace, Bob Deering, David Taylor, Jonathan Kaye and Norma Symonds

With a little less pomp and ceremony than there might have been in pre-pandemic times, the Mayors who will represent and promote our local towns over the coming year have taken up their chains of office – mostly at virtual meetings via Zoom.

The role of town Mayor is to be the civic and ceremonial head of the council. Chosen by their fellow councillors, they represent and promote the interests of their local areas by attending functions, supporting groups and individuals who contribute to the area, raising money for charity – and cutting a lot of ribbons!

In these socially distanced times this municipal year is likely to be a little bit different but their role at the heart of the community will be an important one…

Annelise Furnace praises spirit of Sawbridgeworth Councillor Annelise Furnace took up her role as Mayor of Sawbridgeworth and praised the town’s sense of community during the Covid-19 pandemic.

She said: “The town has responded to this crisis in a fantastic way – the support scheme set up by churches; our GPs, pharmacies and NHS and care workers supporting us medically; our retailers and other key workers ensuring we have food and supplies; and our schools being open for children of key workers and setting up home learning programmes for pupils. We also see so many acts of kindness – neighbours helping one another with shopping; the 8 axis magazine

Brownies writing cards to elderly residents via the Hailey Centre; and the wonderful rainbow pictures by our youngest citizens displayed in town windows.”

During the year Annelise will raise funds for two charities – the 1st Sawbridgeworth Scouts and the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance. Her theme for the year is ‘building bridges’ between generations, communities and countries and said she looked forward to a time when everyone could gather together again and enjoy the town’s fantastic events.

The Deputy Mayor for the year is Councillor Greg Rattey.

Bob Deering: Hertford is a special place Councillor Bob Deering is the new Mayor of Hertford.

Bob is a long-standing Hertford resident who was elected to the town council in 2015 and is also a councillor on East Herts District Council and Hertfordshire County Council.

His chosen charities for the year are Samaritans and Isabel Hospice. He said: “Hertford is a special place and I am honoured to be the Mayor for the forthcoming year ... I became a councillor to give something back and I will do my best to work for the best interests of every citizen of Hertford.”

Councillor Jane Sartin, who served as Mayor herself in 2012, was elected Hertford’s Deputy Mayor for 2020/21.

Second stint as Mayor of Ware for Alexander Curtis In Ware, Councillor Alexander

Curtis, who made history in 2017-18 when he was the town’s youngest ever mayor at the age of 20, takes up the chains of office for a second time.

Alex has represented the town’s Chadwell ward since 2019, and prior to that Christchurch ward from 2015 to 2019.

As well as serving on Ware Town Council, he is a councillor on East Herts Council, is a member of the Hertfordshire Police and Crime Panel, is Chairman of the Hertford and Stortford Conservative Association and a member of the National Conservative Convention.

He is a trustee of the Guideposts Trust, an emotional wellbeing charity with an office in Ware that works with vulnerable adults.

Councillor Ian Kemp is the Deputy Mayor.

David Taylor takes over as Mayor of Broxbourne Councillor David Taylor has been elected as the new Mayor of Broxbourne for the municipal year.

David has been a local councillor for six years, representing the area that he has lived in for more than 30.

He said he would be making an announcement on his chosen charities for the year in due course.

Councillor Paul Seeby was elected as Deputy Mayor.

Norma Symonds still Mayor of Bishop’s Stortford for now In light of the Coronavirus situation Bishop’s Stortford Town

Council has decided not to appoint a new Mayor for the time being.

With no events since March and a reduced number expected in the coming months it was decided instead to invite last year’s Mayor, Councillor Norma Symonds, to remain in office for the foreseeable future.

Her current Deputy, Councillor Keith Warnell, is Mayor elect and will take up the chains of office himself later in the year, most likely in October.

Jonathan Kaye to continue to serve as East Herts Chairman District councils such as East Herts and Harlow appoint a Chair rather than Mayor but it is effectively the same role.

Similarly to Bishop’s Stortford Town Council, East Herts Council’s current Chairman and Deputy, Councillor Jonathan Kaye and Councillor Ken Crofton, are having their terms of office extended to a future date.

Councillor Kaye’s charities are CHIPS (Children’s Integrated Playschemes) and Isabel Hospice.

Maggie Hulcoop is new Chair of Harlow The Chair of Harlow for 2020/21 is Councillor Maggie Hulcoop who represents the Harlow Common ward.

Her chosen charities for the year are the mental health charity Mind and the baby loss counselling charity Petals.

Vice Chair for 2020/21 is Councillor Bob Davies who represents Mark Hall ward.

BRIEFING

Jobs set to be lost as Broxbourne closes the Spotlight theatre until autumn 2021 due to Covid-19 pandemic The Spotlight theatre in Hoddesdon is to remain closed until at least the autumn of 2021, with its staff told they are likely to be made redundant, as the Covid-19 pandemic decimates local councils’ finances.

Broxbourne Council, which runs the venue, says the theatre must remain closed until it becomes financially viable.

Despite being popular, the Spotlight costs local council taxpayers over £150,000 a year to run, even after income from tickets and food and drink sales is taken into account.

The council says that retaining all the staff until the Spotlight is able to reopen would mean that cost would rise to £350,000.

In a statement to Axis magazine, a spokesperson for the council said: “The council’s finances have been dramatically impacted by the pandemic. Income has dropped significantly and therefore a corresponding reduction in expenditure has to be found.

“Retaining the staff when the venue is unable to trade is therefore not sustainable.

Consequently, it is with regret that the council has been forced

these unprecedented times to ensure the stability of council finances. It is with great sadness that this decision has been made.

I look forward to being able to visit The Spotlight again in the future when it is viable to reopen it.”

The Spotlight in Hoddesdon

to advise the staff at the Spotlight that their jobs are at risk of redundancy.”

Council leader Councillor Lewis Cocking said: “I have attended many enjoyable events at the Spotlight – it is a much-loved venue and an asset to the borough. Knowing it will not reopen until the autumn of 2021 is a blow to its regular customers and all those who have worked so hard to try to make it a success.

“Not being able to reopen as quickly as expected is very disappointing and losing valued members of staff is never something that the council takes lightly. Unfortunately, tough decisions need to be made during

2020: A Year of Culture?

This is the second threat to the cultural life of the borough of Broxbourne this year which, ironically, had been designated as Hertfordshire’s Year of Culture.

At the start of 2020 it was revealed that Broxbourne was planning to close the borough’s museum, Lowewood, also in Hoddesdon, to save money.

The news prompted a campaign that included an online petition and eventually the Friends of Lowewood Museum voluntary group was able to agree a deal with the council to set up a new trust to keep it open.

A similar petition has been set up on the website change.org to reopen the Spotlight which, as Axis went to print, had already received almost 4,000 signatures.

Search online for Reopen The Spotlight Theatre ASAP if you would like to sign it.

Covid-19 memorial garden to be created at Woollensbrook A memorial garden is to be created at Hoddesdon’s Woollensbrook Cemetery and Crematorium as a tranquil place where people can remember loved ones who died during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The memorial garden is one of 34 to be created across England, Scotland and Wales by Westerleigh Group, the UK’s largest independent owneroperator of crematoria and cemeteries.

The group says the garden will be beautifully landscaped with colourful, seasonal planting making up a rainbow, which, for many, has been a symbol of hope in recent months.

The focal point will be a stone memorial individually carved

by Westerleigh’s highly skilled stonemasons.

Westerleigh’s chief executive, Robert Mclaughlan, said: “Over the centuries, people have commemorated significant, life-changing events by creating memorials to honour those who have died. We wanted to do something similar to acknowledge the impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on the local communities we serve.”

He added: “It will be a special place where people can come to remember and reflect, and to give thanks to the wonderful way that the NHS, key workers and whole communities pulled together during this crisis.”

Work is expected to begin on the stone memorial in the autumn with landscaping taking place in early Spring 2021 before the garden itself opens shortly afterwards.

Westerleigh’s Robert Maclaughlan

IN BRIEF PARKING CHARGES RETURN TO EAST HERTS Charges for parking in East Herts Council-operated car parks have been reintroduced following their temporary suspension at the end of March. The local authority had suspended charges for its car parks during lockdown, as well as its enforcement of single yellow lines, residential permit and limited waiting bays. These will be enforced again now too.

BROXBOURNE TO CHANGE TO CASHLESS PARKING From early October cash will no longer be accepted in Broxbourne Council-run car parks or onstreet pay and display parking areas as the local authority moves to a system of cashless parking.

Following a successful 15-month trial of a pay by phone service, which accounted for 40% of all car parking revenue received, and the change in consumer habits during the Covid-19 lockdown which led to an increase in contactless payments, the council has decided to phase out the use of cash in car parks completely.

Broxbourne estimates the move will save it £21,000 a year.

LATE NIGHT BAR PLAN FOR WARE IS WITHDRAWN A planning application seeking permission to convert the former NatWest bank building in Ware High Street into a late night bar and restaurant has been withdrawn. Brentwood-based bar and restaurant Vault had already been promoting the new Ware venue on its social media as coming soon. The application had sparked a huge number of objections from local residents who questioned its suitability in a largely residential area and opposed the proposed late opening hours.

SAWBO RESTAURANT PLAN IS OFF THE MENU A planning application submitted to East Herts Council in April seeking a change of use for the former Saffron Building Society building at 27 Bell Street in Sawbridgeworth to enable it to be used as a restaurant has also been withdrawn by the applicant. axis magazine 9

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Open for just two weeks before lockdown, The Shop is back!

Yellie and Will Walton opened The Shop in Hertford’s Parliament Square on 7th March just before lockdown was announced, and were able to trade for just two weeks before being forced to close their doors again.

So they were delighted at having the opportunity to reopen them as measures were eased from Monday 15th June.

The couple already own the popular florist Love Flowers in Market Street and decided to take on the premises vacated by the traditional ironmongers Botsfords after it closed earlier this year.

The Shop sells a wide range of accessories for the home such as furniture, lighting, cushions, pots, vases and glassware, some of which you can see here...

Will and Yellie Walton have reopened The Shop in Parliament Square

The Shop 19-21 Parliament Square, Hertford SG14 1EX

Aldi set to open in Hertford this month

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Discount supermarket Aldi is set to open its doors to customers in Hertford on Thursday 16th July.

The new store is on the site of the former Which? offices in Gascoyne Way and will be managed by Cherell Locke and a team of 34 colleagues.

It will offer fresh British meat products with weekly offers, Aldi’s exclusive ‘Specially Selected’ range, beers, wines and spirits and a ‘Food to Go’ section at the front of the store.

The middle aisle is reserved for Aldi’s legendary Special Buys with new ranges released every Thursday and Sunday covering anything and everything from hot tubs to pizza ovens, electrical items and gardening tools.

The store will be open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 10pm

and on Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

Delivery hours altered Despite a number of objections from those living close to the new store and from Hertford Town Council, Aldi was successful in June in gaining planning consent to increase the hours in which it can receive deliveries.

Conditions originally attached to planning permission for the new store allowed deliveries and dispatch from 7am to 9pm Monday to Saturday and 9am to 5pm on Sundays and bank holidays. However, the new hours approved by East Herts Council on 6th June are between 7am and 11pm Monday to Saturday and 7am to 9pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Sarah offers a proper Dot Cotton-style service in a 21st century launderette

Sarah Broom has kept the doors of The Clean Team open through the pandemic but is looking forward to business returning to normal

Some businesses have been able to remain open throughout lockdown but they have still faced significant challenges, and that includes The Clean Team launderette in Hoddesdon.

Sarah Broom set up her smart new launderette in Fawkon Walk, off the High Street, and opened her doors for the first time on Monday 10th February.

Sarah’s very personal style of service – she cheerfully proclaims she offers “Good old-fashioned Dot Cotton-style service within a

modern 21st century launderette” – had helped her get off to a flying start but the Covid-19 restrictions have led to many challenges on top of those that are faced by anyone opening a new business.

Some of her customers have been shielding or reluctant to leave home, so Sarah offered a collection or delivery service to help them. And of course she hasn’t had the benefit of trade from commercial customers because those businesses have

been forced to close.

Now that lockdown is being eased, Sarah hopes to be able to get back to normal.

She offers a great service to all her customers, with self-service and full service options.

Washing, drying, ironing and pressing are all available, with no mixed loads for different customers and everything carried out on site. A collection and delivery service is also on offer.

Sarah likes to get to know her customers and wants the

launderette to be a community hub, where people can have a cup of tea or coffee and a chat.

The Clean Team is open seven days a week, from 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am to 4pm on Sunday. Pop in and see for yourself just what a modern launderette looks like!

The Clean Team 20 Fawkon Walk, Hoddesdon EN11 8TJ 01992 946946 thecleanteamltd.co.uk

Rachael renames her shop Twisted Willows and honours her mum’s memory The coronavirus lockdown has forced many changes on local independent businesses but florist and gift shop owner Rachael Sanderson took the opportunity to rename and rebrand her shop in Hertford while its doors were closed.

Rachael took over what was known as The Flower Bar in Old Cross, Hertford two years ago and quickly added to its core business of selling flowers by adding many unusual ranges of gift products. Now she has renamed the shop Twisted Willows – the name coming not just from the tree but also referencing the name of her own daughter, Willow.

But the theme of family was also a sad one for Rachael during lockdown as she lost her mother, Gillian Sanderson, to Covid-19, on 1st April. In memory of her mum, who adored flowers, Rachael has named a mixed bouquet after her – calling it Gilly Flowers – which can be

bought from the shop.

Twisted Willows continues to specialise in flowers of all kinds, including for weddings and funerals, and offers local flower delivery to all the area covered by Axis magazine.

But it also sells so much more, including candles, handmade soaps, incense, smudge sticks, glassware, eco bags and beautiful fairy gardens and tea cups.

Twisted Willows 21 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RE 01992 582469 twistedwillows.net

Top left: Rachael Sanderson is pictured holding a Gilly Flowers bouquet axis magazine 11

SPONSORED CONTENT

OPENFOR BUSINESS

Our local high streets welcome back shoppers – let’s give them our support

A message from East Herts Council: Please support our local high streets as they open up again

Charlie Rudge of Lock, Stock & More in Buntingford is welcoming shoppers

Our high streets are ready to welcome you back.

Across East Herts, traders have put in place all the necessary safety measures so that you can shop with confidence.

You’ll find speciality foods and wines, cards, gifts, flowers and takeaway foods to take your taste buds on a world tour – a great alternative while we’re staying home.

If it’s time to update your summer wardrobe, boutiques, accessory outlets and shoe shops have gorgeous new stock ready for your socially distanced meet-ups.

Protective shields, social distancing markers and hand sanitisers have been installed at businesses across Bishop’s Stortford, Buntingford, Hertford, Ware and Sawbridgeworth. Opticians and beauty salons are also installing safety measures in their premises ready for when

they’re able to reopen.

Typical is Charlie Rudge of Lock, Stock & More in Buntingford who said: “We’ve implemented two protective shields on the front counter along with hand sanitiser, allowing two customers in the shop at a time with social distancing measures in place.”

East Herts Council’s executive member for planning and growth, Jan Goodeve, said: “We’ve worked with businesses, town councils, police and Hertfordshire County Council on installing safety measures across our five towns so you can shop with confidence.

“As well as providing jobs and supporting our local economy, our high streets are key to our sense of community, offering a place to meet and interact with others. Our traders are looking forward to welcoming you back, so if you can, do shop local.”

A campaign image promoting independent retailers in Hertford

Over the last few weeks, the council granted more than £18 million in retail reliefs and as of 22nd June grants worth £28.47 million.

In Bishop’s Stortford Katie Bradshaw of Coco’s said: “Being an independent business at this time has never been more challenging and our customers have risen to the challenge as much as we have. Our survival is in their hands and the last four days have proved their loyalty to be immeasurable.”

Ware’s mayor Alexander Curtis said: “Ware town centre is a wonderfully diverse shopping experience with lots of beautiful independent boutiques. It also has an interesting history, making it a great town to explore.”

You’ll also find plenty of tempting independents offering excellent personal service and places to meet friends in the pretty towns of Hertford and Sawbridgeworth.

Councillor Jan Goodeve is urging everyone to shop local

A social distancing reminder in North Street, Bishop’s Stortford

LAUNCHPAD CO-WORKING SPACES TO OPEN THIS MONTH The council’s co-working office and meeting space community in Bishop’s Stortford and Ware reopens this month with suitable controls in place. Launchpad supports new and small businesses by providing flexible and affordable space.

Find out more at eastherts.gov.uk/launchpad 12 axis magazine

OPENFOR BUSINESS

Our local high streets welcome back shoppers – let’s give them our support

Why it is absolutely essential to get out and support our local shops and businesses now lockdown has been eased Our town centres are back open for business – please do give them your support again!

On Monday 15th June, the date from which the Government said that non-essential retail could reopen, the majority of our independent shops were back trading.

In Hertford, where the town council has launched a Love Hertford Local campaign, new Mayor Councillor Bob Deering made it a personal mission to visit as many as he could that very day, welcoming them back and encouraging others to show their support too.

Others took a little longer, but most, if not all, are now open again.

To do so safely all have had to put new, often costly, measures in place including Perspex screens, floor markings and the provision of hand sanitisers.

The shopping experience is likely to be a different one for a while with limits on the numbers of customers allowed in premises at any time.

And some shops where customers are likely to need more time to consider purchases (such as jewellers and home

improvements stores), are offering timed appointments to prevent customers from having to queue for long periods at busy times. Do check websites and social media for the latest from individual shops.

So far though, shoppers seem unfazed by the new regime. There were reports of a steady flow of returning customers and a good first day’s trading on the 15th.

And the first Saturday after reopening on the 20th saw busy town centres, with footfall likely to have been boosted by the warm and sunny weather.

The Covid-19 shutdown has only served to show us that while it can be useful, the online shopping experience can also be faceless and dull.

The amount of us returning to our town centres makes it clear we’ve missed the creativity, the choice and the personal shopping experience that only our independent retailers provide.

This special feature is a reminder of what some of our best local businesses have to offer.

After three months of enforced closure there has never been a better time to show them how much they’re valued.

Gay’s Newsagents 28 FORE STREET, HERTFORD SG14 1BY

Mayor of Hertford Councillor Bob Deering out supporting Vic Hobson of Mudlarks charity café and Mark Wines of his eponymous antiques shop

ANDREWS CHEMIST 104 High Street, Ware SG12 9AP

01920 462239

Perfumes & skincare Christmas gifts from Calvin Klein, Free Yves Saint Laurent, Clarins prescription & more… collection & delivery service

LATE NIGHT CHEMIST RESIDENTIAL & CARE HOME SERVICE

NEWSPAPERS & DELIVERY / MAGAZINES CONFECTIONERY / TOBACCONIST / E-CIGARETTES / LOTTO & MUCH MORE

01992 583253

CONSULTATION AREA

WARE CROSS PHARMACY 40 Christian Close, Hoddesdon EN11 9FF

01992 440380

Mini emporium with a selection of dealers selling antiques, vintage and retro collectables 4 Mill Bridge, Hertford SG14 1PY 01992 509547 axis magazine 13

SPONSORED CONTENT

OPENFOR BUSINESS

Our local high streets welcome back shoppers – let’s give them our support Crates of Wool, your friendly local yarn shop, is ready to welcome you again Ware’s friendly independent yarn shop Crates of Wool is now open again after having to close its doors during the Covid-19 lockdown.

The shop, which was founded

by Brigid Evans in 2017, is currently opening with restricted hours, from 2-5pm Monday to Friday and from 10am-2pm on Saturday.

Brigid runs the friendly, colourful shop together with Deb Cunningham, who joined her in 2018.

Crates of Wool is a treasure chest of natural fibres, locally dyed yarn, cotton, bamboo and standard acrylic, meeting the needs of anyone who knits or crochets, and able to cater for everyone, regardless of their budget.

Some colourful new yarns are

now in stock as well, giving you another reason to pop in and have a look around.

You can also buy patterns and haberdashery items from the shop whilst knowledgable advice is freely available on all related issues – just ask!

Classes and drop-in sessions usually take place weekly in-store and are always hugely popular, and Brigid and Deb are looking forward to being able to resume these as soon as it is possible.

In the meantime, doorstep delivery is available to both Ware and Hertford if you are not able to get to the shop.

Crates of Wool 8a East Street, Ware SG12 9HJ 01920 463436 cratesofwool.co.uk

Visit Kids Connection at its new home Kids Connection has been in Hertford supplying school uniform for more than 20 years.

It recently expanded into larger premises, moving from Market Place to Hartham Lane – just around the corner from Sainsbury’s.

Customers are currently being encouraged to book an appointment to visit, between 9am and 5.30pm Monday to Saturday, which can be done online at kidsconnection.co.uk.

You can still visit without an appointment, but you may have to queue to help with social distancing requirements. One way to save time is to order online and select either delivery or collection upon checkout. You can call or email for help with your orders, particularly as sizing can be tricky.

Kids Connection also supply dancewear and a small range of 14 axis magazine

school shoes for girls and boys, and will still fit shoes where possible, although parents are encouraged to do this themselves with staff guiding them. A virtual shoe fitting service is also available over video call for those who would like it.

This service can be used when ordering shoes online; once you have received them a fitting session can be set up.

Kids Connection already offers heat pressing and will be doing some embroidery as well.

There are several car parks nearby, in Hartham Lane and St Andrew Street, so it’s easy to park and walk to the new site.

Kids Connection Unit 1A Great Northern Works Hartham Lane, Hertford SG14 1QW 01992 587466 kidsconnection.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT

OPENFOR BUSINESS

Our local high streets welcome back shoppers – let’s give them our support Cavavin’s new local delivery service to continue after end of Covid lockdown Independent Hertford wine shop Cavavin was able to remain open throughout the lockdown period (bar two days at the beginning) and has seen good trade throughout, including a huge jump in orders through its website.

The website (cavavin.co.uk) was launched last year and continues to offer a wide range of wines, Champagnes and spirits for delivery locally and nationwide, as well as a click and collect service.

The local delivery service has proved so popular during lockdown that it is set to continue now we are emerging from the restrictions, with same day delivery offered on all orders placed before 4pm to all the areas served by Axis magazine.

Cavavin, which is in Maidenhead Street, Hertford, is owned and run by Chris Stokes with the expert help of Ritchie Tough, and opened three years ago in summer 2017.

Cavavin’s popular in-store wine tasting events are of course on hold for now, but Chris and Ritchie have found a way of continuing with them remotely!

They are sending out half bottles of the selected wines, with tasting notes, to those taking part. If you would like to sign up for future events, do get in touch with them or pop into the shop.

Cavavin The Wine Shop 22 Maidenhead Street, Hertford SG14 1DR 01992 558311 cavavin.co.uk

Lance James, your expert local jewellers Lance James the Jewellers are celebrating their 14th year in Hertford. In that time, the shop has become well known for its bespoke jewellery-making service, with goldsmith Jackie and her team regularly taking commissions to design and create individual rings and jewellery pieces.

They also carry out jewellery remodelling, from melting down existing jewellery and creating a bespoke piece to remounting old stones into something new – Jackie has just completed a commission to turn an old pendant and pair of earrings into a new bespoke diamond cluster ring.

They are also well known for their extensive engagement and wedding rings collection, including the ever popular carbon fibre range.

With their on-site workshop,

Lance James are the go-to jeweller for repairs – anything from a simple chain repair to a complete restoration, including replacing missing stones, resizing and finishing. They also replace watch batteries and straps and offer servicing and repairs for watches.

The reputation and popularity of Lance James has been built upon the warm welcome offered to everyone who enters the shop, whether you are popping in for some friendly advice or to browse the wide range of jewellery. You will find items in all price ranges, including great gift ideas like Virtue London sterling silver rings from just £19.

Lance James the Jewellers 15 Market Place, Hertford SG14 1DQ 01992 534555 lancejames.co.uk axis magazine 15

SPONSORED CONTENT

OPENFOR BUSINESS

Our local high streets welcome back shoppers – let’s give them our support Ashbourne Insurance supports local businesses through the pandemic Hoddesdon-based Ashbourne Insurance has remained ‘open for business’ during the lockdown period with all staff working from home supporting hundreds of customers with insurance queries and new policy requirements.

In addition, significant time has been spent sharing advice and information on social media channels as it is recognised the ‘new normal’ will see every business needing an enhanced online presence. All these adaptations to Ashbourne’s business have been made possible by supporting, and with the support of, local suppliers.

The directors and staff have been choosing to support local businesses by ordering goods and services offered by

companies based in Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas. Approximately 98% of all suppliers to Ashbourne Insurance and family members in the business throughout the Covid-19 pandemic have come from within a 15 mile radius.

Finance Director Sarah Smits said: “Supporting the local economy and businesses during lockdown has been a priority for us and our family.

“Ashbourne Insurance is a third generation family business and we value the support of ‘buy local’ campaigns so have involved ourselves with Love Hoddesdon BID, local networking zoom groups and buying essential household items and PPE in readiness for back to work from independent retailers. Post lockdown, we

Sarah with a Paul Crowley charity print from Brothership in Hertford

ask that Herts businesses also commit to ‘keeping the business in Hertfordshire’ and give Ashbourne the opportunity to quote for their business and home insurances.”

Multi award-winning Ashbourne Insurance have been offering a wide range of

business and personal insurance for over 40 years along with a claims advisory service.

Ashbourne Insurance 50 Amwell Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8UA 01992 471001 ashbourneinsurance.co.uk

Cannon Travel – an independent local travel agent you can trust As the Government announces the “air corridors” that are intended to revive the summer holiday market, there has never been a more important time to support your local travel agent.

And whether you are looking to book something now, or for next year, using an agent you can trust is going to be vital.

Cannon Travel is an established independent travel agency, based in Hoddesdon, that has been delivering personalised service, unbiased advice and excellent value to travellers in Hertfordshire and the surrounding area for more than two decades.

The whole team at Cannon, led by managing directors Viv Townsend and Kevin Brooks, has a passion for travel and a desire to create the perfect 16 axis magazine

holiday experience – and it is this drive and attention to detail that differentiates Cannon Travel from its competitors.

Each of the specialist advisors brings worldy knowledge and exceptional travel expertise to every consultation.

From knowing when is the best time to travel, to suggesting hidden gems and must-do activities, they offer unbiased advice on the best travel companies, hotels, cruises and more.

In regular circumstances, Cannon also offers exclusive day trips, theatre trips, coach holidays, villa holidays and small group escorted tours, all arranged by the expert in-house team.

Last year, Cannon’s excellence was recognised at the travel

Kevin Brooks with colleagues Kay Maile and Louise Quill-Esser and the two awards they won at the end of last year

trade’s Gold Medal Awards when it won the category for Top Agency in the East Anglia region (for a business with between two and 10 outlets) before going on to win the national award for the same size

category – a great achievement.

Cannon Travel 96 High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8HD 01992 441541 cannontravel.co.uk

SPONSORED CONTENT

OPENFOR BUSINESS

Our local high streets welcome back shoppers – let’s give them our support

FRANKIE AND OLIVE HERTFORD Frankie and Olive, the Hertford boutique that sells ethically produced women’s clothing, accessories and homewares, is celebrating its first birthday this month as it emerges from lockdown. Owner Louise is enjoying sharing her stylish summer collections in natural, sustainable fabrics and unique, affordable gifts made by artisans around the world. She is passionate about the high street, good customer service and providing a safe, enjoyable shopping experience with a personal touch.

19 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RE 01992 677150 frankieandolive.co.uk

HERTFORDSHIRE FIREPLACE GALLERY POTTERS BAR The well-established Hertfordshire Fireplace Gallery have been helping customers with their fireplace requirements for almost 19 years. They have the largest selection of fires and fireplaces throughout Hertfordshire and surrounding areas, and offer free surveys and free local delivery. A full installation service by qualified Gas Safe and HETAS engineers is also available. So whether you are looking for a traditional surround in limestone, marble or timber or the latest contemporary hole in the wall fires, call in today!

APPELMAN CHARMAN HODDESDON Now that opticians are able to open this is a great time to support your local independent opticians. Appelman Charman is a well-established and trusted optician that has been providing eye care for the past 18 years. For your assurance, staff are working within the new regulations set by the Government, NHS England and professional bodies by wearing all necessary PPE whilst maintaining hygiene standards required for Covid-19. Services are available by appointment only.

9 Barnet Road, Potters Bar EN6 2QX 01707 657070 | hertsfireplacegallery.co.uk

90 High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8HD 01992 447141 info@acopticians.co.uk

POST & PACKING HERTFORD

ROSSI’S ATTIC HERTFORD

SOVEREIGN DRY CLEANERS HERTFORD

Post & Packing Hertford is your independent postal shop and aims to provide the local community with quick and hassle-free services. You can post your letters and parcels; arrange a courier including Hermes, DPD, UPS and DHL; hire a secure mailbox and even use the shop as a pick-up and collection point!

If you sell online, Post and Packing also offers convenient storage with the full pick, pack and post fulfilment services so you can spend more time growing your business.

Opened by Earle and Helen last year, Rossi’s Attic mini emporium is the kind of shop you always hoped Hertford would have – and now it really does! Filled with antiques and vintage and retro collectibles from furniture to clothes and vinyl records, Rossi’s Attic is stocked with products from a selection of different dealers. Prices are very reasonable and there is new stock coming in (and going out!) all the time, so it’s always worth popping in for a browse. It’s open six days a week – closed on Mondays.

Established in 1981, Sovereign Dry Cleaners of Excellence in Hertford are specialists in cleaning wedding dresses and silk clothes – in fact they are the official dry cleaners and finishers for renowned labels Veni Infantino and Ronald Joyce. They also offer suede and leather cleaning; a rug, curtain, cover and household laundry service; a handfinished shirt service and carry out repairs and alterations as well. Based in the heart of Hertford town centre, they are open 8.30am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday.

71 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1AL 01992 472755 | postandpackinguk.com

4 Mill Bridge, Hertford SG14 1PY 01992 509547

5 Evron Place, Hertford SG14 1PA 01992 550000 | sovereigndrycleaners.co.uk axis magazine 17

THE TRAVEL PAGE

SPONSORED CONTENT

First class tales from a lifetime of flying

Kevin Brooks of Cannon Travel recalls some memorable plane journeys We are sure readers will understand that time pressures this month have meant Kevin was unable to deliver a new travel column, so we have dug out a classic read from the archives for you...

It has to be said that the vast majority of flights I have taken have been routine and boring: get on, sit back, read or sleep, get off. However, I have had one or two moments to remember.

Most of us have experienced an aborted landing, which sounds dramatic but is usually just the safety procedures kicking in.

My understanding is that at a certain point on the approach, if the runway isn’t clear the pilot aborts and goes around again.

But I did have an interesting one when I was flying into Cleveland in Ohio. We had crossed the threshold – those wide white lines at the end of the runway –

Sitting up front alongside the pilot in Botswana

when a strong gust of wind lifted one wing and the pilot immediately took off again.

In reality, we were up and away before I realised what was going on… it was only afterwards you think ‘what if?’.

On another occasion I was flying into Rotterdam and on the final approach on a foggy morning the pilot announced that because he couldn’t see the approach lights he was going around.

After three attempts he decided to divert to Amsterdam as they had more sophisticated landing equipment. Now none of this was particularly concerning until I noticed a stewardess reading the safety manual… that does make you wonder...

Many years ago I was flying from Bangalore to Calcutta, as they were then known, when suddenly a red warning light on one of the doors started vigorously flashing. That doesn’t look good, I thought, and then a steward gave it a quick kick and the light went off!

Small plane stories I have also had my share of flying in small planes. In Botswana I was sitting up front with the pilot in a little six-seater. What was great about that was watching a jeep clearing the grass strip of antelope so we could land. Another small one was in Guyana, South America, and that involved flying in a very old plane over very densely packed rainforest in order to fly around the Kaieteur Falls, which is the highest single drop falls in the world. That was spectacular but even more so was flying over Victoria Falls in a helicopter.

But the worst flight I have ever had was in a very small plane from Las Vegas to see the Grand Canyon. It was so turbulent that despite having my seat belt done up as tight as it would go I still hit my head on the ceiling three or four times!

A first flight to remember So, back to the beginning. My favourite aeroplane, without a

From all at Cannon Travel

Look after yourselves, stay safe and we’ll be seeing you once it’s all over... we will all need a holiday by then!

96 High Street, Hoddesdon, Herts EN11 8HD & 49 High Street, Ware, Herts SG12 9BA info@cannontravel.co.uk 01992 441 521 / 01920 466 531 www.cannontravel.co.uk 18 axis magazine

shadow of doubt, is the Boeing 747, or jumbo jet, and it was on one of these that I took my very first flight – in first class!

The reason I was in first class was because I was travelling with my boss, who has since died so I can tell the story.

We met at Heathrow and had a couple of drinks in the lounge and when we left to board he said: “Hang on, I’ve forgotten something”.

What I later discovered was that he went back to take some medication but he had also forgotten that his doctor had said “Under no circumstances have alcohol with these tablets”.

It was then that my first ever flight turned from one filled with excitement and anticipation into something a little different because by the time we got to the gate he was completely drunk.

Drunk to such an extent that he stood at the top of the jetway and urinated.

Not surprisingly, they were not going to let us on board but because we were first class and I said I would look after him they reluctantly allowed us on.

Seven or eight hours later, when we touched down in Kuwait, he was still drunk.

Fortunately, the next day when we were settled into the Grand Hotel, Calcutta he couldn’t remember any of it.

However, the thing I remember most, as we trundled down the runway for my first ever take-off was him shouting – and I mean shouting – “If you have a god, now is the time to pray”… and he used to be a pilot!

TAXING MATTERS

SPONSORED CONTENT

The 4th of July: See you all down the pub on Independence Day?

Stuart Everett of Hertford accountants Meyer Williams seeks to sift scientific fact from coronavirus fiction I am writing this on the hottest day of the year so far but not, presumably, the hottest ‘since records began’.

In fact, this is a phrase I have not heard for some time, presumably because it alludes to publishing historical and/or scientific facts, backed up by data, which now seems to be a thing of the past.

You may have noticed recently, for example, that pretending current Government policy is being designed by scientific experts has been the order of the day.

We were even seeing those scientific experts on our TV screens at 5pm every day.

That was until those pesky journalists became so good at interrogating the scientific experts and highlighting the differences between current

A 43-page document governs how our pubs can open safely

policy and scientific facts at the daily televised virus briefings that they began to appear less and less frequently.

Then, of course, the daily televised virus briefings were stopped altogether.

Was this an attempt to persuade us that things are now OK and we do not need them anymore?

The evidence from the rest of the world seems to tell a different story.

Relying on common sense Either way, apparently everything will be OK if we use our common sense.

As has been seen on our beaches

and other places where a crowd may gather, common sense is clearly in as short supply as PPE was a couple of months ago.

Unfortunately, unlike PPE, the Chinese do not export it!

Mine’s a pint So, what strategy has the Great Pretender come up with to get us all to forget the reality of 2020?

Of course, why didn’t they do it sooner … get us all to go down the pub!!

But the Government is not being wholly irresponsible.

The confirmed danger of a second spike means they have produced a 43-page document

showing the rules governing the reopening of pubs on 4th July 2020, which coincidentally to some is Independence Day! Remember – Independence Day means different things to different people (American Independence Day is on 4th July, Indian Independence Day is 15th August for example), but essentially these days celebrate the end of British Government imposing rules on countries it had occupied and restoring their liberty.

How ironic that the Pretender should choose American Independence Day to restrict our liberties with this 43-page document.

No doubt this will cost business owners a great deal of money to comply with the rules which they will no doubt all try to do to save their business.

So why the rush to reopen?

I suppose, it is to prevent exponential tax rises replacing the exponential growth rate of the virus. Will it be just one or both that finally see the end of the Great Pretender?

As soon as the Great British Public get down the pub all the problems will soon be forgotten – as no doubt will all the rules in the 43-page document!

I suppose some form of independence will ensue until we all suffer the consequences of the economic hangover! l If you need help with your tax, please phone for a socially distanced consultation.

To reduce any risk, there is a plan to cover me in Perspex!

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

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

Stag House, Old London Road, Hertford, Herts SG13 7LA 01992 550721 | www.meyerwilliams.com | stephanie@meyerwilliams.com axis magazine 19

THE PARK, GARDENS AND WOODLAND WALKS ARE NOW OPEN To ensure everyone enjoys the park whilst avoiding any crowds we are limiting the number of tickets sold each day.

Tickets must be bought in advance via our website.

We are not running a timed ticket system so you are welcome to stay for the day.

For further details and ticket prices please visit our website.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.

WHERE THE CITY ENDS & THE COUNTRY BEGINS

HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK 01707 287010

WHAT’S ON

EVENTS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The big reopening: Your (rather belated) summer starts here...

Buy tickets in advance for Hatfield House and Henry Moore Studios & Gardens this summer JONTY WILDE

Hatfield House The park, gardens and woodland walks at Hatfield House reopened on Saturday 20th June and are open to visitors from Thursday to Sunday.

Tickets must be bought in advance and the number of visitors each day is limited to enable everyone to safely enjoy the tranquility of the historic park. The tickets are not timed so you can arrive at any time and stay all day.

Opening times are from 10.30am to 5pm.

Whilst the splendid Hatfield House itself remains closed to the public for the time being, the medieval Old Palace building will be open from Saturday 4th July; individual shops in the Stable Yard area are trading and the new Coach House Kitchen is open and serving a limited takeaway menu from 10.30am to 3pm Thursday to Sunday.

Tickets for the Old Palace, park, garden and woodland walk are £15 for adults (£7.50 for children aged 5-15); or for the garden, park and woodland walk are £11 (£5.50 children).

Entry to the Stable Yard is free. hatfield-house.co.uk

STEPHANIE BELTON

Recommended places to get out and about now that lockdown has been eased

l New at Hatfield for this summer is The Screen Space, an outdoor big screen experience with a line-up of activities ranging from fitness classes to picnic movies and drive-in cinema, from Saturday 4th July to 3rd August. Full details can be found online. thescreen.space Henry Moore Studios & Gardens The former home of sculptor Henry Moore in the Herts countryside at Perry Green near Much Hadham is to reopen to the public on Saturday 4th July. The venue showcases Moore’s iconic sculptures in a beautiful rural landscape and the large outdoor space makes social distancing straightforward, offering more than enough room to enjoy Moore’s magnificent works.

Visitors must pre-book a 60-minute time slot to arrive within (you can then stay as long as you wish) and picnic lunches can also be ordered in advance online. The café will be serving a limited menu of takeaway drinks and snacks too.

The Studios & Gardens are open from 11am to 5pm from Wednesday to Sunday (and bank holidays) between now and 1st November.

Tickets are £11 for adults, £9.50 concessions (including key workers) and £6 for children aged 5-18. henry-moore.org The Gibberd Garden One of the jewels in Harlow’s cultural crown is The Gibberd Garden, at the former home of the master planner of Harlow new town, Sir Frederick Gibberd. This wonderful garden, which is full of surprises, is now open again for visitors every Wednesday and Sunday from 2-5pm, with last entry at 4pm. You do not have to pre-book but all payments are by card/contactless only. Full admission is £5, concessions £4 and children aged 5-16 £1.

The garden is in Marsh Lane, off Gilden Way, Old Harlow CM17 0NA. thegibberdgarden.co.uk

Marsh Lane, Harlow, Essex CM17 0NA

THE GARDEN IS OPEN

The Gibberd Garden will open initially every Wednesday and Sunday, 2pm – 5pm (last entry 4pm).

Payment is by Card / Contactless only.

Previous planned events are cancelled.

We are taking a cautious approach to possible future events so please continue to check the website. www.thegibberdgarden.co.uk

The Gibberd Garden is run almost entirely by volunteers.

Registered Charity No: 1053608

axis magazine 21

WHAT’S ON: PRIVATE VIEW

THE LOCKDOWN EXHIBITION: PART TWO This is the second part of our printed art exhibition which proved so popular last month. With most galleries still closed, we were keen to continue our initiative to promote the work of our local artists at a time they could not show work in the traditional way.

Many of these pieces are available for sale so please do support your local artists at this time.

ALBURY BLUEBELL

BY PAULA CHERRY From her home in rural Herts, Paula’s walks with her dogs often inspire her large, bold abstract paintings. She has exhibited at Digswell Arts, Courtyard Arts and Brothership Studio locally. The work above, which is available for sale, is in acrylic, 120 x 90 cm. digswellarts.org/paula-cherry

BRISBANE RIVERSIDE

BY KATHY BURMAN Art allows Kathy to explore her ideas freely and she works in many mediums, in a realistic, figurative or abstract style. This collage of Brisbane Riverside is a striking example of her work.

Kathy is a member of Hertford Art Society. kathyburman.co.uk

LONDON SKYLINE

BY CAROL MOUNTFORD Carol has explored many mediums during an artistic career that her seen her win prizes and feature in major art magazines. She uses large canvases for mixed media work and cityscapes are her favourite subject. This work, London Skyline Abstract 1, is for sale at £150. 01767 448572

LOST IN THE FOREST

BY ABBIE ORDWAY Abbie uses alcohol ink to produce bold, happy, abstract pieces.

Lost in the Forest, shown above, is priced at £200. For more examples of Abbie’s work see her social media: Facebook: Abbie Ordway Art (@abbieoart); Instagram: Abfab68 You can also email direct at: abbieeee@hotmail.co.uk

FIELD AT CHURCH END

BY JULIE ARNALL Julie has been teaching art for 20 years and usually runs classes in both Hertford and Sawbridgeworth. Field at Church End is 40 x 30 cm and is for sale at £140 unframed. You can contact Julie through her website. axisweb.org/p/juliearnall 22 axis magazine

WHAT’S ON: PRIVATE VIEW

SEA OF HOLES

BY GEOFF BENNETT On retirement Geoff took up painting and joined the Hertford Art Society. He says he is “hopeless with watercolours, a bit better with oils and with acrylics or emulsion – they both give much the same result in my view!” Sea of Holes is for sale at £120. geoff_bennett_uk@yahoo.com

THREE FISHING BOATS

BY JOSEPH ROWSON Joe has been painting for over 20 years, initially using watercolour, migrating to oils and pastels. He has exhibited at numerous art shows and galleries and is a member of Hertford and Stevenage art societies. Three Fishing Boats is for sale at £120.

01438 813871

HERTFORD 2

BY HILLARY TAYLOR A love of both natural and built environments infuses Hillary’s distinctive drawings, which can regularly be seen and bought at Hertford Town and Tourist Information Centre in The Wash.

MEET ME AFTER MIDNIGHT

BY NICK DITTRICH A member of Bishop’s Stortford Art Society, Nick works in a variety of mediums (acrylic and oil paint, charcoal, graphite, pastels and chalks) or anything else that comes to hand to express his ideas in a non-representational style.

This mixed media piece is 40 x 40 cm and is for sale at £240. endarts.co.uk

BEACH SCENE

BY CRAIG LEE Craig has exhibited with the Royal Society of Oil Painters Annual Exhibition at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London in 2017, 2018 and 2019; the 2019 RSMA and The Artist at Patchings in 2017 and 2018 and was awarded the Pro Arte award in 2019. He was also awarded The SAA professional Artist Of The Year 2019. Craig is a member of Hertford Art Society. Beach Scene is for sale at £425. craigallanlee@hotmail.co.uk axis magazine 23

WHAT’S ON

The Luna Cinema converts to a drive-in for our socially distanced times The Luna outdoor cinema has become a summer favourite for many thousands of people in recent years.

And because the coronavirus pandemic has for the moment put paid to its usual type of picnic screenings, Luna has reinvented itself as a drive-in cinema experience.

Film fans can now enjoy their favourite movies in a nostalgic, socially distanced magical setting, including at the wonderful location of Knebworth House, which opens from Sunday 5th July and features a screening every day until at least 25th July, with more dates to be confirmed soon.

The giant screen is set against a backdrop of one of England’s finest stately homes, surely the perfect place to enjoy cinema under the stars.

Films range from all-time classics such as Jurassic Park, Moulin Rouge!, Back to the Future and a

Grease singalong to more recent releases including Rocketman, A Star is Born and Joker.

Doors open each night at 8.30pm with the film starting at 9.30pm.

Each car will be given a free in-car cinema quality speaker through which to hear the film, food and drink can be ordered once parked and full details of how this all works can be found on the Luna drive-in website.

A general admission ticket for a car and two people is £35 – gold circle and VIP tickets are also available at £45 and £80 respectively.

Access to the drive-in cinema is via junction seven of the A1(M), next to the Novotel hotel. You enter through the main entrance then follow the pathway through the grounds – parking stewards will be on hand to direct you.

The postcode is SG1 2AX. More venues for the Luna drive-ins will be released soon. lunadriveincinema.com

Rocketman and Joker can both be seen at Knebworth House

Welcome back to

HENRY MOORE STUDIOS & GARDENS 4 July to 1 November 2020

Explore Henry Moore’s sculptures and studios in over 60 acres of glorious countryside.

Registed charity number 271370

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Plan your visit and book online at henry-moore.org/studios-and-gardens

FOOD & DRINK How Bainbridge brothers moved quickly to mitigate lockdown Although pubs and restaurants are now able to reopen, albeit with social distancing measures firmly in place, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge effect on the pub and hospitality industry over the past three months.

For the Bainbridge brothers, who run The Tilbury at Datchworth and The White Hart at Welwyn, 2020 had been intended to be an exciting year with the planned launch of a new venture, Bain & Bridges Catering.

Weddings were planned, tipi open days were in the calendar and Tom and James Bainbridge were aiming to renovate a mobile drinks bar by the end of the year.

But when both pubs were forced to close in March they repurposed their idea to start delivering the food and drink they are known for to the local area.

They offered two menus each week, one for Friday and one for Saturday, with options of starters, main courses and desserts, all prepared and just in need of finishing off in the oven, or simply serving up.

Both menus quickly sold out each week and the success of the new idea has helped bring money in to the business and promoted what the new catering company can offer, with requests for large party catering and drinks bars when it is safe to have gatherings again.

This month, it will be back to business (though not quite as usual) for both pubs.

The White Hart reopens on Saturday 4th July and The Tilbury on Wednesday 8th.

Get your bookings in quickly! thetilbury.co.uk whitehartwelwyn.co.uk

Coach House Kitchen opens for a second time The new Coach House Kitchen restaurant in Hatfield House’s Stable Yard shopping area barely had time to open its doors for the season before it was forced to close them in March as a result of the Covid-19 restrictions.

But it has now reopened and is serving takeaway tea and cake

amongst other things from a limited menu Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

So if you are visiting the park and gardens at Hatfield House or going shopping at the Stable Yard, do pop in and give it your support. hatfield-house.co.uk

Eat17 founders see an opportunity to offer struggling pubs a different kind of future Many pubs chose to diversify during the lockdown. Some, such as The Fox Inn at Matching Tye and The Golden Fleece at Braughing, became mini grocery stores to help serve their local communities.

Now that idea is being taken a stage further by James Brundle and Chris O’Connor, the cofounders of the Eat17 grocery stores, who have seen an opportunity to capitalise on this unexpected trend.

Eat17, which was founded in Walthamstow and has a branch

in South Street, Bishop’s Stortford, plans to expand through franchising and is offering a proven model to pub and restaurant owners who are interested in turning some of their floor space over to retailing permanently as a result of the need for social distancing.

Eat17 started in 2006 and has forged an innovative partnership with AF Blakemore, owner of 300 Spar stores which supplies 1,100 independents across the UK. It sees the grocery giant combine

Spar branding with Eat17 to create a high-end convenience store.

James Brundle said: “Our offering isn’t a one size fits all. Instead it’s about us working closely with publicans, restaurant owners and retailers to give them another stream of revenue as they adapt their businesses for social distancing. Our concept has been working well in our four stores for 14 years and it’s a model that can easily be applied to businesses that have struggled over the last three months.”

Eat17’s store in Bishop’s Stortford axis magazine 25

DINING OUT GUIDE: SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS

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THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining

THE GRANDISON Country Pub & Restaurant

James and Bianca Rix have successfully run the Fox and Hounds for 15 years, establishing it as one of Hertfordshire’s leading eating out destinations. The Josper oven, seasonal menus, excellent value midweek set menu and superb Sunday lunch are all great reasons to visit. You can eat in the bar, dining room or on the pretty terrace. The venue is also available for events and private dining, including celebrations, weddings, business meetings and wakes. The Fox and Hounds will be reopening from Saturday 4th July.

Reopening on Saturday 4th July! Nestled in the picturesque village of Great Amwell, The George IV is one of Hertfordshire’s best kept secrets. Imaginative, freshly prepared dishes, including traditional pub classics, are served in a friendly pub atmosphere with a sun-drenched outside terrace. The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event. From parties, birthdays and anniversaries to baby showers and corporate events, they’ve got it covered with their beautiful function room and wide variety of dining options.

Just outside Hertford in the pretty village of Bramfield, The Grandison is the perfect country retreat. Under new ownership since the summer of 2018, it offers a modern menu of gastropub style food, with contemporary takes on pub classics, lighter options at lunchtimes and a delicious roast on Sundays served between 12noon and 4pm (booking is strongly advised). All dishes are freshly prepared with only the finest ingredients sourced by the chefs.

The Grandison is pleased to announce that it will be open again from Saturday 4th July!

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

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

18 Bury Lane, Bramfield SG14 2QL 01992 554077 thegrandison.com

DINNIO Mediterranean Kitchen

PIRCIO Italian & Turkish

Family-run Dinnio, which opened in Hertford last year, offers two separate menus of excellent Italian and Turkish food in a smartly refurbished building over two floors. The Italian menu includes pizza, pasta, meat and fish dishes with hot or cold mezes, steaks and charcoal grills among the options on the Turkish menu, together with wines, spirits and cocktails.

Dinnio is open seven days a week and caters for families (children’s menu available) as well as large groups and business lunches. Dinnio will be open again from Saturday 4th July.

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 and reopens on Saturday 4th July.

DIL’S INDIAN Indian

12-16 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1BZ 01992 677790 dinnio.co.uk

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

FOX AND HOUNDS Pub, Dining Room & Venue hire

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Now under new management, Dil’s Indian is one of Hertford’s most popular Indian restaurants and is open for delivery and takeaway during lockdown. Alongside its existing menu, new authentic dishes are being introduced, offering customers the chance to try unique food. Under normal circumstances Dil’s hosts a banquet night every Tuesday and Wednesday and a buffet all day Sunday.

Order through the new website for 10% off delivery and 20% off on collection for orders over £20.

19-21 Maidenhead Street, Hertford SG14 1DW 01992 554400 dilsindian.co.uk

DINING OUT GUIDE: SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS

ADVERTISEMENT LISTINGS

SAFFRON Indian

THE FOX INN Traditional English Pub

Reopening for dining in on Saturday 4th July!

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

This stylish restaurant is a contemporary venue in which both traditional and unique Indian dishes can be enjoyed alongside superb service. It can cater for both large gatherings and more intimate dinners. For takeaway, both delivery and collection are available with a 10% discount for collections.

The Fox Inn reopens on Wednesday 8th July and online bookings are now open for tables in the restaurant, bar and garden. The Fox is a traditional English village pub that reinforced its place at the heart of the local community during lockdown, opening as a pop-up shop and offering food takeaway collection at weekends. Book ahead to guarantee a table but walk-ins are being accepted if tables are available. For details of new opening hours and the menu keep up to date at facebook.com/thefoxinnmatchingtye.

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

The Green, Matching Tye, Essex CM17 0QS 01279 731335 thefoxinn.com

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

THE HIGHLAND RESTAURANT Steakhouse & Carvery

THE STRAW HAT Cantonese

VILLA ITALIA Italian

Open for local delivery and collection during the lockdown – you can even pre-order Sunday lunch from The Highland Restaurant in Broxbourne! The Highland is Hertfordshire’s premier traditional steak house. Now under new ownership, though within the same family, the Highland has been established for over 40 years, becoming a local institution. It continues to serve the finest steaks whilst also introducing new dishes such as burgers and ribs. The Sunday lunch at £16.95 for three courses is great value.

The Straw Hat is open for takeaway in the evening Thursday to Saturday from 5pm and from 2-9pm on Sunday. Established for 16 years the restaurant is based in a beautiful listed building with a thatched roof which explains its name. The menu offers modern Cantonese cuisine that takes traditional dishes and reinvigorates them using high quality ingredients to produce healthy dishes that reflect today’s trends, including dishes for those on coeliac and gluten-free diets. The high quality wine list is also worthy of a mention.

The popular authentic family-run Villa Italia restaurant in Sawbridgeworth has now been carefully adapted following all Government safety advice to offer a safe takeaway and free delivery service to surrounding areas during the lockdown. Visit the website for the full takeaway menu and look out for Sunday roast specials which change week by week.

Orders can be placed by phone or email to info@villa-italia-restaurant.co.uk and opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm9.30pm and Sunday from 12.30-5.30pm.

8-11 The Precinct, High Road, Broxbourne EN10 7HY 01992 466933 highlandrestaurant.co.uk

Harlow Road, Sawbridgeworth CM21 0AJ 01279 722434 Facebook: @strawhatoriental

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

THE GOLDEN FLEECE Pub & Dining The Golden Fleece, which reopens on Saturday 4th July, 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 need gluten-free meals. As a free house the Fleece is also able to offer a wide range of real ales, beers, wines and spirits.

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9-13 Parliament Square n Hertford n SG14 1EX

EXPECT MORE n FROM YOUR n ESTATE AGENT

• For Sale: Prices start from £395,000 AMWELL HOUSE – A MASTERPIECE IN MODERN LIVING An iconic conversion dating back to 1750 situated in the heart of Ware. Restored to the highest of standards creating nine truly unique and architecturally impressive one and two bedroom apartments.

01992 721 321 n www.thomas-childs.com