THERE’S A GOOD IKEA SWEDISH FURNITURE GIANT COMES TO HARLOW
SHOPPING NEWS UPDATES FROM OUR LOCAL HIGH STREETS
VE DAY EVENTS WHERE TO GO TO MARK 80th ANNIVERSARY
OPEN-AIR THEATRE ROMAN THEATRE UNVEILS 2025 PROGRAMME
THE TASTE OF SPRING BROOKMANS’ NEW MENU WITH GEMMA OGSTON
05-15 y Briefing
We round up the main news stories, including Ikea coming to Harlow
23-32 y What’s on
Ella Henderson headlines at music festival in our guide to arts & events
16-19 y Shopping & business news
Find out about new shop openings and more news from local businesses
33-35 y Food & drink
The latest local restaurant news and Esquires Coffee opens in Hertford
13 & 15 y FROM PARLIAMENT: Our MPs write exclusive columns for you 23 y WHERE TO MARK VE DAY: Events taking place on 80th anniversary
Front cover images (clockwise from top)
The Phoenician Scheme, the new film from Wes Anderson, is in local cinemas this month (p31); Singer Cara Beard is appearing at The George IV in Great Amwell on Friday 9th May (p33); Alice in Wonderland is a highlight of BArts’ new season (p28); New solar-powered postboxes are coming to Hertford and Ware (p5); Skindred will perform at SMR 25 festival this month (p27).
Axis magazine was founded in 2003 by two award-winning former local newspaper editors who still own and run the business today.
We are the independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters in and around eastern Hertfordshire and we aim to provide a concise, useful guide to local life.
Our editorial content is targeted towards readers’ interests, to maximise readership and gain the best exposure for our advertisers. The magazine is delivered to homes and businesses in selected areas and copies can also be picked up free from venues across the area.
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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.
Here at Axis we look to build long-lasting relationships with local businesses that understand the benefits of advertising to an affluent and intelligent audience on a regular, ongoing basis.
To find out more about promoting your business with us please call 01992 500198
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Hertford and Ware have been chosen by Royal Mail to trial what it is calling the ‘postbox of the future’ – solar-powered boxes that accept small parcels as well as provide customers with proof of posting.
These are likely to be a huge hit with the increasing numbers of people selling online on sites such as Ebay, Vinted, Etsy and Depop, as well as shoppers looking to send returns.
Until now, traditional postboxes have been able to take pre-paid parcels but only if they could be fitted through their letterbox-size opening.
In the biggest change to postbox design since they were introduced more than 175 years ago, the new boxes feature an extra-large opening, along with solar panels on top and a barcode scanner.
To use them, customers need to pre-pay for posting, attaching the relevant barcode to their parcel.
At the postbox they scan the barcode and the drawer opens for the parcel to be dropped in. Proof of posting is available via the Royal Mail app which uses 4G and the phone’s location services.
To use it, customers tap ‘services’ on the home screen, go to ‘proof of posting’ and follow the steps.
Letters can still be posted through a separate opening.
There are 115,000 postboxes in the UK, located within half a mile
The story of the postbox in Britain goes back to the 1850s when author Anthony Trollope was working as a surveyor’s clerk for the Post Office.
Probably having seen roadside letter boxes in France and Belgium, he proposed their introduction here and, after a successful trial on the Channel Islands the first pillar boxes appeared in 1853.
of 98% of addresses, making them the UK’s largest parcel drop-off network, and Royal Mail says if the local pilot proves a success thousands more across the country could be adapted to the new design.
Emma Gilthorpe, CEO at Royal Mail, said: “In making this historic change to our postboxes our goal is to maximise choice and convenience for our customers. In an era where letter volumes continue to
decline and parcels are booming, we are giving our iconic postboxes a new lease of life on street corners across the nation.”
There are just five postbox locations in the trial, one in Letchworth, another in Fowlmere in Cambridgeshire and three locally at: 83 The Avenue, Bengeo SG14 3DU, 6 Walton Road in Ware SG12 9PF and 38 Gilpin Road in Ware SG13 9NA.
Hertfordshire Constabulary has been successful in its bid for additional Government funding to boost neighbourhood police officer and police community support officer numbers.
£3million of funding from the Government’s neighbourhood policing uplift will see an additional 35 police officers join neighbourhood policing teams across the county.
An additional 20 PCSOs, who are uniformed officers but without full police powers, will also be recruited.
The extra numbers are a further boost to those that Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards set out in his police budget earlier in the year.
Mr Ash-Edwards welcomed the news saying: “Strengthening local policing is a key priority in my
Police and Crime Plan as I know that Hertfordshire residents want to see visible local policing and action on neighbourhood crime and anti-social behaviour.
“Neighbourhood policing teams play an important role in this work, through patrols in town centres, engaging with local communities and tackling burglary, shop theft, vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour.”
However they weren’t standardised in design, with their manufacture and installation largely the responsibility of local surveyors. By 1859 they were standardised in two sizes, both with a cylindrical shape and painted green. But, after complaints that they were too unobtrusive and people were having difficulty finding them, the iconic red colour that we know today was standardised in 1874.
IKEA has announced that it is to open one of a number of new smaller format stores in the former Homebase unit on Harlow’s Edinburgh Way.
It is one of three (the others being in Chester and Norwich) that the home furnishings retailer is aiming to open in 2025 at former Homebase sites.
The new smaller store openings are designed to complement IKEA’s existing portfolio of 21 full size stores and are part of an expansion plan to be closer to where customers live, work, socialise and do their daily or weekly shopping.
Depending on where you live in the Axis coverage area, our current nearest stores are at Lakeside in Essex, in Milton Keynes and on the North Circular Road at Wembley. Featuring IKEA’s famous home furnishing inspiration, market hall and bespoke planning services, the Harlow store will provide the classic IKEA experience that customers know and love, on a smaller scale.
With a compact on-the-go food menu for customers to take away fans will even be able to enjoy the store’s much-loved meatballs!
Peter Jelkeby, IKEA UK and Ireland CEO, said: “We know many people want to shop with IKEA but in some instances we are just too far away.
“That’s why we are strategically expanding our UK footprint, with the aim of showing up in convenient, accessible locations for our customers. Centrally located in retail parks, our three new stores mark a major step forward in our expansion plan, making it easier than ever for customers in these areas to shop with us.”
In the three new locations customers will be able to follow familiar signage around the store. A curated range of up to 5,000 product lines will be on display, with up to 3,000 available for immediate purchase and the full range discoverable through digital tools.
Each store will also offer customers
Sawbridgeworth Town Council’s plans that will see the creation of Jubilee Gardens, a landscaped public space in the centre of the town, have been submitted for approval to the local planning authority East Herts Council.
It has long been felt that the town would benefit from having a dedicated central area where residents could sit, relax, meet up or take part in community group activities.
The area of public land outside Central Surgery close to the Bell Street car park was identified a few years back, and following agreement with East Herts Council which owns it, plans for the gardens have been being progressed by a working party of councillors and residents.
While the site, with footpaths
connecting Bell Street to the Central Surgery and the car park running through it, is already a public space and does contain a number of benches, it is somewhat hidden by the high brick wall that runs along its border with Bell Street.
The large number of trees on the site both overshadow the space and obscure it from outside view.
The plans include reducing the height of the boundary wall, allowing views into the gardens, along with removing lime trees from the rear of the wall and replacing them with more ‘upright’ species set farther back.
A number of other trees on the site would also be removed although the significant copper beech tree, believed to date back to the time when the space formed part of the garden of the former residence that
complimentary, personalised design support as well as click and collect services allowing them to pick up online orders at a convenient time for them.
This month will also see opening of IKEA’s highly anticipated new city centre store on London’s Oxford Street ahead of a second in Brighton
later in the year.
Peter Jelkeby added: “Harlow, Chester and Norwich have long been areas of interest to us, and we’re looking forward to bringing the very best of the IKEA experience in a refreshingly compact format to these communities later this year.”
is now The
at 4 Bell Street, will be retained. A revised entranceway is planned, new trees and other planting, acces-
sible paths and seating. The application can be viewed on East Herts Council’s website, planning reference 3/25/0250/FUL.
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McDonald’s has submitted a planning application to East Herts Council proposing changes to its Rush Green roundabout site in Hertford that it is hoped could finally go some way to alleviate the long-standing traffic issues caused by its drive-thru.
Traffic trying to enter the site regularly queues back onto the major roundabout, an intersection of the A414 and A10, causing traffic congestion and blocking access onto the roundabout from the B1502 Stansted Road.
It’s a long-standing issue that local residents, the company, East Herts and Hertfordshire County councils have been trying to resolve for some years.
In 2022 planning permission was granted for changes to the highway that would see the approach road to the site re-aligned and an additional lane created for queuing traffic.
Those approved changes have yet to be implemented while the required legal agreements between the company and highways authority Hertfordshire County
But in a statement accompanying its latest planning application, submitted in March, McDonald’s says that there is ‘traction to get final approval’ and that its latest proposals are designed to complement those highways works.
The new application is seeking permission to reconfigure the drivethru lane and parking within the site, as well as to relocate pedestrian customer entrance doors from
the north east to the south east of the building to make way for drive-thru operation changes that are aimed at speeding up the flow of cars through the site.
At the current time, even with staff standing in the vehicle queue and taking orders on handheld terminals to speed up the process, traffic can only progress through the site in the order that it enters it, with those with shorter or faster orders held up by those placing longer
These new recruits to Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust might not look like they’re doing a lot – but they’re actually carrying out vital work in managing habitats at Patmore Heath Nature Reserve near Little Hadham.
The local conservation charity has acquired a herd of seven Hebridean sheep to join an established herd of Herdwicks at the grass heathland site, a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its ecological importance. As well as being home to a large expanse of dry grasses, the site also has ponds and marshy areas supporting a range of wildlife including locally rare heath rush, sphagnum moss and great crested newts, a protected species.
The hardy sheep breeds that originate from islands off the north west coast of Scotland and the Lake District like to eat scrub, particularly bramble, and in doing so create
the opportunity for less competitive plants to thrive.
They also remove nutrients from the soil, which is important in maintaining low nutrient soil levels which characterise heathlands.
More diverse plant species attract invertebrates and the birds, mammals and amphibians which in turn feed on them.
Later in the year the Hebridean sheep will move to the trust’s Aldbury Nowers nature reserve near Tring. The trust also owns a flock of Shetland sheep which are currently grazing at Amwell nature reserve near Ware and which will move to Fir and Pond Woods near Potters Bar in the summer.
Dog owners are urged to keep their dogs on leads in areas where sheep are grazing.
To find out more about the trust and its projects visit hertswildlifetrust.org.uk
orders or taking more time.
Plans are to introduce side by side ordering at two customers order display units so that a customer who has placed their order can proceed through the site without having to wait for someone with a longer order, or who is taking more time, to move ahead first.
The plans would involve the loss of three parking bays.
A new ‘fast forward lane’ beyond the collection booth will also allow a customer to pull forward to a second collection booth in the event of a slight delay to their order, preventing them from blocking the drive-thru lane while they wait.
Nigel Bowen, the chair of Kingsmead Residents Association, said the plans would not significantly improve the traffic queues at peak times but would offer some mitigation. He said the association would be supportive of the application if it was coupled with enforcement of the already existing Urban Clearway.
The application can be viewed at eastherts.gov.uk, planning reference 3/25/0455/FUL.
The site of the former New River Arms pub on Turnford High Road close to the A10 is to be redeveloped into 80 apartments after planning approval was granted by Broxbourne Council in April. The pub and carvery closed in 2014 and the building was later demolished in 2018.
The plans for the 0.35-hectare site from New River Estates will see one three-bedroom, 17 two-bedroom, 41 one-bedroom and 21 studio flats created in a four-storey building which will also feature a rooftop garden and underground car parking.
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Funding has been awarded that marks the first step on the road to removing an ancient local church from Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register.
Historic England has awarded a grant of £72,533 towards the rescue of the remains of St Mary and All Saints’ Church in Thundridge, close to Ware, known locally as ‘Thundridge Old Church’.
The funding, together with further contributions from Thundridge Old Church Action Group (TOCAG) and the Diocese of St Albans, will enable structural investigations and pre-development work to take place that could lead to repair and conservation works and the church becoming an accessible asset to be enjoyed by the community.
History of the church
Thundridge’s original church was built in Norman times, and an original 12th century doorway still survives in the remaining grade 2* listed 15th century tower.
The now remote tower is a significant local landmark in an historic landscape, the last visible evidence of continuous occupation in the Rib Valley.
The church was built within a
medieval moated enclosure, now a scheduled monument, that also includes the remains of the lavish Tudor Thundridgebury Manor House, demolished in 1811. By the mid-1800s the church was in a poor state of repair and Robert Hanbury of nearby Poles (today known as Hanbury Manor) commissioned a new church – St Mary’s Thundridge – to be built.
The four bells from the old church, one from 1480, were rehung in the
Thundridge Old Church Action Group is working with the Diocese of St Albans which owns the site, and Historic England to secure a sustainable future for this heritage asset.
A survey part-funded by Historic England in 2023 resulted in the tower being fenced off due to the risk of falling masonry and potential serious issues in the roof.
The new grant will fund investigations to create a schedule of works for essential repairs and improvements, allowing it to be brought safely back into limited community use.
The group hopes that the site can be saved for future generations as a community asset – a green oasis, somewhere to inspire people to learn about local history and
new church which was consecrated in 1853. After the nave roof of the old church fell in, both its nave and chancel were demolished, leaving just the tower so that burials could continue in the churchyard for another 30 years.
Today, reached via local footpaths, it is a popular destination with walkers, cyclists, picnickers and those interested in the site’s history. Sadly, while some artefacts were transferred to the new St Mary’s, a
large amount of the ancient memorials, tombstone decorations and architecture have been lost to the passing of time and vandalism. The graveyard remains the resting place of William Hughes, notable vicar of Ware and Thundridge who preached in 1788 against arguments that Christian texts condoned slavery, and was made an honorary member of the Society for Affecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade formed by Thomas Clarkson.
archaeology, where traditional craft skills can be demonstrated, and as a venue for creative events.
Project ideas include conducting a feasibility assessment for reinstating the ringing chamber floor, enabling tower access and use, reconstructing sections of the churchyard wall using original bricks currently stored within the tower, researching the churchyard grave markers and records, and recording the lost sounds of the original bells dating back to 1480.
Dr David Blowers, Thundridge Old Church Action Group Chairman, said: “As a registered charity TOCAG have a mandate to work with the Diocese of St Albans to find a sustainable future for the tower and remove the threat of demolition of this iconic ancient
local landmark.
“We are inspired by our ongoing discovery of the extraordinary and nationally significant history of this thousand-year-old site and are deeply motivated to help share and bring this to life for the public. This fantastic grant award from Historic England is a crucial enabler for a future where the threat of demolition is removed, and the tower preserved, safe and with the
potential to become a remarkable community asset.
“To follow our progress and events, let us know what you think, or find out how you could get involved and be part of the story of this amazing place, please find and follow ‘thundridgeoldchurch’ on social media or email friends@thundridgeoldchurch.org.” l You can also find out more at thundridgeoldchurch.org.
Harlow Council’s revitalisation of Harlow town centre continues apace after two new major steps forward were confirmed.
The council has purchased Adams House as part of its plans to rebuild Market Square, on which work is due to start shortly.
The 1960s three-storey building, which includes the iconic Market Square clock, also includes 28 self-contained flats occupied by private tenants and two empty commercial units on the ground floor. As part of the deal, the Clock House pub has closed.
The iconic clock face will be retained within the redeveloped Adams House.
The transformation of Market Square is due to start in the coming months and is all part of the council’s plan to turn it into a new destination for leisure, hospitality and nightlife.
The regeneration will see bars, restaurants, nightlife and high-quality apartments in the buildings around the square with a large water feature, open market and outdoor dining at the centre.
Harlow Council has also agreed to pursue the purchase of four acres of land owned by developers Strawberry Star. The land and buildings are part of the stalled development known as the Harlow Quarter site, which runs from Primark in Broad Walk down to Market Square and across to the old Odeon and includes Little Walk. The site has planning approval for up to 741 homes with substantial new retail, leisure, hospitality, com-
munity and commercial space.
But with the redevelopment stalled, the council has become increasingly frustrated and concerned about what it says is a lack of security on the site which it claims has led to antisocial behaviour, criminal activity and trespassing. Once purchased, the council plans to demolish the empty buildings and completely clear the site to enable a plan to be put forward to kickstart its regeneration.
Charlton Athletic footballer
Gracie Pearce has returned to her old school, Presdales in Ware, to officially open a new 3G football pitch.
The defender had a kickabout with school team players and joined other dignitaries at the end of March to mark the launch of the pitch.
The new floodlit, full-size, all-weather pitch is intended for use by not only the all-girls secondary school and sixth form but also the whole of the grassroots football community in East Herts. It will particularly support girls’ and women’s football, with 75 per cent of its usage expected to be for the female game.
The pitch was funded by an £824,106 grant from the Football Association, with support from Hertfordshire FA, Herts Sports and Physical Activity Partnership,
Stevenage FC Foundation and local club Bury Rangers Youth. Other clubs linked with the school which will benefit from using the pitch include Bengeo Tigers and Hertford Town Youth.
Steve Maker, Head of Football Development and Investment at Hertfordshire FA, called the new
No major event passes in Hertford without its woolly celebration by the town’s Secret Society of Hertford Crafters – and the 80th anniversary of VE Day is no exception. Back in 1945 Victory in Europe Day on 8th May marked the formal surrender of Germany to allied forces, ending almost six years of fighting in Europe during WW2. The Mill Garden next to the town’s theatre BEAM was decorated with the work of some 100 members of Hertford’s best known group of knitters, crocheters, felters and quilters on Sunday 27th April in a celebration of 80 years of dedication and service – from those who took part in the war effort to those who help our communities in 2025.
pitch “a game-changer for the local football community – particularly for female participation”. The project is also linked with the neighbouring Pinewood School, a specialist SEN setting for pupils with learning difficulties, autism and speech, language and communication needs.
As ever, the crafters show an incredible attention to detail – and in their VE Day 80th Anniversary yarn bomb you’ll spot everything from Spitfires and a Sherman tank to Princess Elizabeth driving her ambulance, Alan Turing with a code-breaking machine and Winston Churchill.
As ever it’s in aid of a good cause –this time the Royal British Legion. Visit ssohc.co.uk to find out more and for a link to donate.
l For details of local events marking VE Day see page 23.
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Spare keys are not hidden outside (use a lockbox)
Windows & Access Poiints s
All windows have working locks
Ground-level windows have reinforced security film or sensors
Open windows are not left unattended
Alarms & Moonniitorring
Home is protected by a monitored security system
Motion-detecting security cameras are installed
Video doorbells are in place for visitor verification
Alarm system is regularly tested & maintained
Liightiing & Visibility y
Outdoor motion -sensor lights are installed
Entrances and pathways are well-lit at night
Trees & bushes do not obstruct views of entry points
Emeerggency Alerts
Smoke & CO detectors are working & up to date
Household members know the emergency security plan
Important numbers (security company, emergency contacts) are easily accessible
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YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD WRITES FOR AXIS MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH
Why the Government was right to recall Parliament and act to ensure the future of steel-making in this country
Parliament paused for Easter Recess last month, which was a great opportunity to focus on constituency work.
However, we saw an important interruption to Easter Recess –when both Houses of Parliament were recalled to debate emergency legislation to secure the future of British Steel.
This followed the announcement that British Steel – sold to the Chinese company Jingye Group under the previous Conservative government – planned to close its blast furnaces. This would effectively shut down Britain’s steelmaking industry, with thousands of jobs at stake.
Retaining the ability to make our own steel is essential for defence and infrastructure, and for our economic and national security.
The Government therefore laid emergency legislation before Parliament to grant ministers emergency powers which they could then use to keep the blast furnaces running and keep British Steel alive.
It’s right that the Government acted at pace to take control of the situation as Jingye Group accelerated plans to close British Steel’s blast furnaces.
I was pleased to play my part in passing this emergency legislation to save British Steel and the jobs it provides and secure the future of steel-making in Britain.
Celebrating a Hertford Town FC legend
It was great to join residents at Hertford Town FC’s match against Flackwell Heath last month to celebrate the birthday of 93-yearold volunteer John Staines. Having raised John’s more than 60-year dedication to the club in Parliament, and the club’s drive to get 1,000 people down to the game to mark his birthday, it was heartwarming to see our community turn out to recognise him. A huge well done to the organisers and thank you to John for his years of service.
Visiting GlaxoSmithKline
It was a pleasure to visit GlaxoSmithKline’s site in Ware last month. One of the largest employers in our local area, it was interesting to find out more about how their work on-site fits into GSK’s
global supply chain, and how our residents help to drive it. I especially enjoyed sitting down with young people benefiting from their diverse skills offer to hear how it had built their confidence and helped them find a new career path.
My sadness at death of the Pope I was saddened by the news of His Holiness Pope Francis’s death last month. I know that his compassionate leadership in challenging times will be sorely missed.
I want to take this opportunity to offer my most sincere condolences to the Catholic community across Hertford and Stortford.
Saturday 17th May: Ware
Friday 30th May: Sawbridgeworth
Please email josh.dean.mp@parliament.uk with your name, address including postcode and as much detail about your case as possible
The first of this season’s crowd-pleasing family events that Love Hoddesdon BID is involved with brought in an astonishing 4,500 people to the town centre. The Hoddesdon Spring Fayre and Heritage Day was held on Saturday 12th April and was a collaboration between Broxbourne Council’s events team and the BID.
As a Business Improvement District, one of the most important functions Love Hoddesdon has is to encourage footfall into the town centre to support as many local businesses as possible. And these large-scale public events are an important way of doing this, bringing in thousands of people to have a great day out and – crucially – see what the businesses in the town have to offer.
Whilst the obvious beneficiaries of such events are coffee shops and restaurants, many traditional retailers also report an increase in trade on the busy event days, while businesses of all types benefit from increased visibility. The Spring Fayre and Heritage
Day was blessed with good weather and featured arena entertainment throughout the day as well as a wide range of community stalls.
Among the extra value Love Hoddesdon BID brought to the event were displays of vintage lorries, fire engines and ambulances; free bus tours on 60-yearold Routemaster buses; heritage walking tours; street barrel organs from the 1920s; street magicians and balloon modellers and children’s rides and games.
Stephen Harris, chair of the BID’s Events and Promotions Committee, said: “If I could bottle the tremendous atmosphere that was created on the day I would, and I would open the bottle whenever anyone spoke negatively about the town.
“Our volunteers and I constantly received positive comments throughout the day.
“But most of all, the event was about the vibrancy for the town’s businesses, and to see the retailers and cafés having good support from the public was a sight to treasure.”
The next event that Love Hoddesdon is involved with organising is a series of free outdoor cinema showings on Saturday 17th May, which will run in the High Street close to Fawkon Walk from 10.30am to 6.30pm.
Three films will be shown at different times, beginning with Paddington in Peru at 11am. This will be followed at 1.30pm by Moana 2 before a Wicked Singalong showing at 3.30pm which will be bound to bring the town centre to life!
Routemasters,
Hoddesdon has welcomed some new businesses to town in the last month. BounceBED is a reformer pilates studio that runs exercise classes to music and opened on Saturday 26th April in The Pavillions in High Street. Owner Claire Blue is looking forward to bringing this great form of exercise to her home town.
Also new in town, at 99 High
Street, is The Butchers Corner, a new butchers shop based where Ripleys used to be. For more on this opening, see page 16 of this magazine. And Teens Unite, which moved its HQ from the old police station building earlier this year, is back in town with a new charity shop in Fawkon Walk. The BID wishes all three new shops every success!
YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR BROXBOURNE WRITES FOR AXIS MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH
Local people need to have a meaningful say over new housing targets but this Government is letting us down
At my very first opportunity after last year’s election, I asked Sir Keir Starmer to reassure me that my constituents will have a ‘meaningful say’ over new development in the green belt in their area.
He said then that the Government will “work with communities”. Disappointingly, the Planning and Infrastructure Bill that came before Parliament last month could not be further from that promise.
In East Herts and Broxbourne, housing targets are increasing by more than 20%.
Protections for unrestricted sprawl around villages have been removed, and I know this is of particular concern for my constituents in Brickendon, Hertford Heath, Great Amwell, Stanstead Abbotts and St Margarets.
At the same time, targets are going down in London, where they have the infrastructure to cope.
These plans simply don’t add up.
The Government have said that ‘limited infrastructure delivery is adding real-world costs to working people’s lives’, and I completely agree.
It is far too common for new housing to be built without new capacity in public services to match.
In our area, thousands of new homes have been built in the last few years but new or expanded infrastructure, to take the strain off our already over-stretched services, is nowhere to be seen.
This new legislation is seeking to make it easier to build ‘major’ infrastructure, but what Ministers define as major is too narrow. What is ‘major’ to my constituents is whether they can get a GP appointment or school place, but there is nothing about providing new powers for councils to ensure this kind of infrastructure is in place before new housing.
In the Commons, I challenged the Housing Minister on what he was doing to ensure existing residents have a role in deciding what is built in their area and urged the Government to prioritise vital upgrades to local services before any more new housing is built.
My first Older Persons’ Fair was a great success
Last month I was delighted to host my first Older Persons’ Fair in Cheshunt.
Hundreds of local residents attended and received valuable information and advice from service providers and charities. I will be hosting similar events in the future across the constituency –so watch this space!
Pictured right: Lewis meeting local people at his first Older Person’s Fair in Cheshunt last month
I continue to hold regular in-person surgeries to discuss issues and concerns with constituents. If you have a problem you’d like to raise with me, please contact my office at lewis.cocking.mp@parliament.uk or by phone on 01992 845335. In addition, if you own a business or are involved in a local organisation and you would like me to come and visit, then please let me know!
French & Day, the independent delicatessen in Ware’s High Street, has been shortlisted for the High Street Hero award at this year’s Small Awards.
The popular deli, which was opened by husbands Thomas Day and Tom French during the pandemic in October 2020, champions bold flavours, independent producers and proper good food.
It has been chosen as one of just eight finalists for the award which celebrates the nation’s stand-out independents that play such a key role in their local high streets and within their communities.
The Small Awards champion the success of Britain’s small business-
es, with 11 different awards for small firms leading the way across everything from sustainability to digital adoption, showcasing all types of businesses including social enterprises, family-owned businesses, sole traders and start-ups.
Thomas Day said: “We’re so excited to be shortlisted for the High Street Hero award and are proud to represent Ware’s small business community on a national platform, proving that independent retail on the High Street is vibrant and thriving.”
The awards ceremony will be held at St Mary’s Church, an events venue in London’s Marylebone, on Thursday 22nd May.
Hoddesdon High Street has a new independent butchers.
The Butchers Corner opened last month at 99 High Street, taking over the premises that had previously been home to the former Ripley’s Butchers. Owner Frankie Marzell has given the shop a full renovation to create a modern and inviting space. Promising friendly customer service, she is selling a wide selection of high quality meats, including
Aberdeen Angus steaks and ‘proper’ lamb chops, as well as speciality cuts, and is happy to take custom orders.
With summer round the corner and a warm spring already underway, The Butchers’ Corner is also selling a wide range of pre-packed barbecue items that are already proving hugely popular.
The shop is open Tuesday to Saturday. Call 01992 678525 for further information.
u Experienced with various Accounts Systems Self-Employed and flexible to requirements References Available CHRIS STIGWOOD 07814 096789 chrisstigwood@hotmail.com
Flowered Up, the florist studio and shop based in one of Hertford’s most iconic buildings, is celebrating its first birthday.
Owner Wendy Shipton opened her business in The Verger’s House, the former Beckwith’s antiques shop building in St Andrew Street last year, and since then has seen it go from strength to strength. Walk in through its historic doors and you will you find yourself in a floral haven filled with not only flowers and plants but also themed art prints on the walls and an increasing range of gifts.
These include greeting cards, soaps, dried flowers, wrapping paper and Flowered Up’s own range of vegan-friendly candles and diffusers created in collaboration with local maker Memory Scents, whose profits are donated to the Alzheimer’s Society.
Flowered Up caters for events, weddings, funerals and everyday life in a style described by Wendy as “bold, feminine and earthy”. It also stocks beautiful bouquets that you can walk in and buy at very reasonable prices. Flowers can also be ordered for
delivery, including for the same day if orders are placed before 3pm.
Wendy also hosts a series of workshops and floristry classes which have been proving hugely popular – check the website for the latest series of these which were just being
confirmed as Axis went to print.
After the shop reached its first birthday Wendy said: “It has been a fabulous first year here. I am so grateful to all our customers and suppliers for their support and am really looking forward to another
exciting year of growth and development ahead.”
Flowered up is at 43a St Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1HZ. Call 01992 845098 or visit floweredup.co.uk to order or for more information.
Next to Flowered Up, in an adjoining section of The Verger’s House building, a new artisan cheese business opened its doors towards the end of April.
Janette Heal, who used to work for Britain’s oldest and best-known cheesemonger Paxton and Whitfield, launched her business, called A Little Bit of Cheese, last year. She specialises in selling British and Irish artisan cheeses produced by small independent farmers and cheesemakers and is hugely passionate about them, giving customers background and information on how the cheeses are made and about the makers themselves, offering a real insight into the food journey.
She sells at pop-ups and markets, including at a recent maker’s and baker’s market at Hertford Corn Exchange on the first Sunday of the month, and at Hertford Farmers’ Market on the second Saturday
of the month. She has also had a pop-up on some afternoons at The Secret Garden tearoom in Bengeo.
Janette is now basing herself at The Verger’s House to showcase what she offers enabling customers who order via her website to collect from the shop.
You are also welcome to pop in to try the cheeses, so you can find out how different artisan cheese tastes. Whether your preferred cheese is hard, soft, blue, goat’s or sheep’s, Janette will have something for you.
Keep an eye on her website and social media for up-to-date opening hours which have recently been Wednesday mornings, Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Janette says she hopes to run cheese-tasting events in the future too. Visit alittlebitofcheese.co.uk to order and find out more about the cheeses available.
A new book has been published by local journalist Paul Boughton which tells the colourful life story of Lady Valerie Meux, who lived at Theobalds Park in Cheshunt until her death in 1910.
The book is entitled Spice of the Devil: The Outrageous Life of Lady Valerie Meux and is available now on Amazon.
Valerie Susan Langdon, who was the daughter of a butcher, married Sir Henry Meux, a member of one of Britain’s richest brewing families, after meeting him when she working as a banjo-playing barmaid at a casino. The match was never approved of by his family or polite society and she went on to live a hugely controversial life.
Author Paul summed her up thus: “Butcher’s daughter; chorus girl;
barmaid; prostitute; mistress; social pariah; owner of a ‘cursed’ mummy; antiquarian collector; Derby winner; patriot; property magnate and one of England’s richest women.”
At Theobalds, which was her main home, she was responsible for famously installing Temple Bar, the old gateway to the City of London, on the estate, where it stood until 2004 before finally being returned to stand near St Paul’s.
After her death, Lady Valerie was buried in Cheshunt. Despite everything she achieved she is largely forgotten today, perhaps best known for the James McNeill Whistler portraits of her. The book is available in paperback and ebook format from Amazon, at £19.98 and £11.99 respectively.
The Range opened a new store in Bishop’s Stortford in April in the Stansted Road premises formerly home to Homebase.
The grand opening on Good Friday, 18th April, was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Bishop’s Stortford Mayor, Cllr Richard Townsend.
The Range’s parent company CDS Superstores acquired the Homebase brand and a number of its stores from administration in 2024 and the Bishop’s Stortford branch of The Range is a new format that features The Range’s popular homeware and furnishings ranges along with a new gardening hub,
The Garden Centre by Homebase. CEO of CDS Superstores, Alex Simpkin, said: “The introduction of the Garden Centre by Homebase in this new store format means we can offer customers everything from stylish homeware to outdoor living solutions, all under one roof. We’re excited to continue providing great service and value to the Bishop’s Stortford area.”
The store features a click and collect service allowing customers to shop online at homebase.co.uk or therange.co.uk and collect in store within 60 minutes. Well behaved dogs are welcome too. You will find it in Stansted Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 5PP.
A new studio in Nazeing is a professional recording and production space dedicated to delivering high-quality audio experiences across music, podcasting and multimedia projects.
The brainchild of musician and qualified recording and mixing specialist Alex Cuffaro, Glasshouse Studios has been built from the ground up with passion and precision so it can become the go-to venue for emerging artists, established bands and podcasters looking for clean, polished audio. Alex says the studio offers a creative and collaborative environment for artists, producers and content creators at every level. It can be hired for recording, mixing and production services that are suitable to a wide range of genres and projects. Whether you are laying down your first track, an established artist working on a new album or a podcaster looking to professionalise your sound, Glasshouse Studios provides the tools, expertise and atmosphere to bring your vision to life.
With its mix of industry-standard equipment and Alex’s years of hands-on experience, the studio focuses on capturing great sound in a creative and inspiring environment.
Glasshouse Studios
Lakeside Nursery, Paynes Lane, Nazeing EN9 2EU 01992 919017
glasshouse-studios.co.uk
The studio also offers guitar lessons for players of all levels. Whether you are picking up a guitar for the first time or looking to refine your technique, all lessons are tailored to your individual goals and musical interests.
A wide range of styles is covered, from rock and blues to acoustic fingerstyle, helping students develop not only their technical ability but also their musicality and confidence.
Alex’s journey began humbly, mixing music in his bedroom with a simple set-up: a laptop, a Focusrite 2i4 interface and a pair of Beyerdynamic headphones. And his passion for music led him to pursue a formal education in recording and mixing. During his time at university Alex gained valuable experience by mixing and recording podcasts while also working at the Metropolis Studios in Chiswick. Still pursuing his own musical career, he also served as a music technician at Hertford Regional College, supporting the next generation to develop skills in mixing, recording and performance, something that further developed his understanding of both the technical and educational sides of the industry.
Alex said: “The last 10 years have taught me invaluable lessons, both personally and professionally. I’m always eager to collaborate with others who share a genuine passion for music and creativity, and I always give every project my full commitment and energy.”
SageWard Lettings is celebrating 15 years of successful trading since opening its doors in Hertford in 2010.
Under the leadership of Lisa Ward, the company has grown from a one-person operation to a thriving business with a dedicated team of six professionals. Adding to their list of achievements, SageWard Lettings has once again been recognised as the Best Letting Agent in Hertford by the British Property Awards – an honour they have now received for the fourth year running. Lisa says this achievement reflects their unwavering commitment to exceptional service, strong landlord-tenant relationships and expert property management.
A challenging market
The lettings market has seen a change, particularly within the last year, with fewer new landlords entering the industry due to challenges such as rising buy-
to-let mortgage rates, increased taxation, and the uncertainty surrounding the former government’s proposed Renters’ Reform Bill. These factors have contributed to rising rental prices.
Lisa said: “SageWard Lettings is committed to supporting both existing and prospective landlords through these changes, offering expert guidance and reassurance. With a focus on compliance and landlord protection, SageWard Lettings removes the stress of tenancy management amid ever-changing regulations. Our affordable and competitive fully managed services ensure landlords meet their legal obligations while maximizing their investments.”
Despite the challenges in the current market, SageWard Lettings continues to thrive, maintaining its reputation for excellence and dedication to its clients.
Visit sageward.co.uk for more information.
New business from architectural designer Stephen Widgery can help owners remodel, extend and improve their properties
Ever wondered how much potential your home has for extending or remodelling?
Project 4 Architecture can help. You don’t always need to move to find your perfect home – reconfiguring your existing space, or extending it, could be a more suitable solution, and one that will add value to your property should you sell in the future.
Project 4 Architecture has been set up by Stephen Widgery, an architectural designer with more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, working for a number of practices, including as a director of Essex-based Chapman Widgery Architects.
His recent portfolio includes the design of Chelmsford town centre’s Bond Street – featuring a John Lewis department store, Everyman cinema plus restaurant and retail units. Other work has included a major extension to the head office campus of a leading manufacturing company and a number of conversions of town centre, including listed, premises. He has also been commissioned by an increasing number of property owners looking to unlock the full potential of their current home.
Project 4 Architecture will enable Stephen to concentrate on work he enjoys best – helping home owners and commercial clients to realise the full potential of their property or land. Whether you’re looking to build a new home, extend or remodel an existing property or create a granny annexe, the process will always begin with Stephen paying a visit to the site. Here he can discuss your ideas while sharing his knowledge of the planning system and making you aware of how location (for example in the green belt or a conservation area) might influence your project.
A sketch scheme can be produced showing how your aspirations could be made a reality.
Stephen Widgery has produced an impressive portfolio of work throughout a 30-year career
With several decades of experience of dealing with planning authorities and their requirements, Stephen can also prepare and submit any planning application for you, seeking pre-application advice or meetings as required from the local authority.
Stephen said: “So often people wonder what they could realistically do with their property but are daunted by not knowing how the process works.
“They might also worry that the constraints of their property – its size, listed status or location – will restrict what they can do.
“It’s the part of the job that I really enjoy, using my knowledge and skills to advise clients. Every site has its challenges but also a wealth of possibilities.”
To find out more, call Stephen on 07774 944814, visit project4architecture.co.uk or email stephen@project4architecture.co.uk.
Thursday 8th May will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe –VE Day – and the Government is urging people around the country to come together at community events and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK, Commonwealth and Allied Nations. Our local councils are organising a series of free events for residents to attend to mark VE Day; here is our guide to what’s taking place:
A free event is being held in the grounds of Hertford Castle from 5.30pm. Organised by Hertford Town Council and hosted by the Mayor of Hertford, Cllr Rachel Carter, there will be food and drink stalls in the grounds, including fish and chips – the nation’s traditional favourite dish which was rationed during World War Two. A programme of entertainment will begin at 6.30pm featuring Just love to Sing, The Barn-ettes and The Rock Choir. At 9.30pm, the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE, will read a tribute and a beacon will be lit to accompaniment from Hertford Choral Society.
Ware Priory Gardens hosts a free celebration event from 6-9.30pm, organised by Ware Town Council. It will feature live music from The Miss Jones Jazz Band and interactive performances from SwingdanceUK.
Visitors can make their own Spitfire plane and design their own bunting too, while fish and chips and other refreshments will also be available, ahead of a flag ceremony and beacon lighting.
The Borough of Broxbourne is holding a programme of entertainment in Grundy Park, Cheshunt from 6pm, including local singers and the Enfield Brass Band, activities for children and promotions by local uniformed organisations. Military vehicles from the era will be on display and fish and chips will be on sale. A beacon will be lit at 9.30pm.
The following day, Friday 9th May, The Spotlight theatre will show The Darkest Hour starring Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill at 2pm and 6pm. Tickets are £8 and can be booked at thespotlightvenue.com.
In Hoddesdon, a special VE Day service will be held on Sunday 11th May at St Catherine’s and St Paul’s Church at 11am.
In Bishop’s Stortford, events begin at 10.50am at the War Memorial in Castle Park where the Royal British Legion’s local branch is organising a commemoration. Then from 7pm, South Mill Arts in South Road hosts a celebration event featuring Five Star Swing performing wartime tunes and singalong songs. Tickets for this are £20 from southmillarts.co.uk.
In Sawbridgeworth, at 6.30pm church bells will accompany a parade through the town to the Bell Street car park which will host a community event with entertainment before a beacon lighting to the singing of I Vow to Thee my Country at 9.30pm.
Harlow holds its celebration event in Playhouse Square from 3.30pm to 9.30pm. There will be food and drink including a licensed bar, as well as music and entertainment throughout the day, before a beacon lighting at 9.15pm.
Hertford Museum is holding a drop-in session on Saturday 10th May from 10am to 3pm to commemorate VE Day, featuring music, food tasting and other activities. Free entry, donations welcome. The museum is at 18 Bull Plain, Hertford SG14 1DT. Visit hertfordmuseum.org for more information.
Ware Town Council Presents: Thursday 8th May
6:00 - 9:30pm
Flag ceremony & beacon lighting
Live music from The Miss Jones Jazz Band Interactive performances from SwingdanceUK
Make your own Spitfire plane and design your own bunting Fish & chips & refreshments available
www.waretowncouncil.gov.uk/whats-on/ Follow us on socials for the latest updates Free Entry
Family Fun at Henry Moore Studios & Gardens
Discover creative activities, from playful art sessions to hands-on sculpture workshops, all inspired by Henry Moore. Explore, create, and let your imagination run wild in Moore’s unique landscape.
Find out what’s on each week, and during the school holidays at henry-moore.org
HENRY MOORE
STUDIOS & GARDENS
Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE
Living Crafts returns to Hatfield Park for four days from Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th May. Now in its 51st year, the festival features hundreds of artisans from across the UK. You can buy direct from the makers of contemporary arts and crafts, including ceramics, wood, metal, jewellery, textiles, furniture and original art, while there are also demonstrations, workshops and entertainment.
Living Crafts is open daily from 10am to 5pm and entry includes access to the gardens and parkland surrounding Hatfield House. Advance tickets are now available at £12 – they will be £14 on the day.
Visit livingcrafts.co.uk.
Ware Priory Lido is gearing up for its summer season, with swimmers encouraged to check online and book their sessions in advance as opening times will be a little different this year. The recent closure of nearby Fanshawe pool has led to an increase in block bookings of swimming sessions by local schools, which has led to changes to public opening times, which will vary from week to week. The pool will be heated from May through to late September. Book your session online at warepriorylido.co.uk.
Eco Fest is a free event at Hertford Castle on Sunday 11th May that is designed to raise awareness of the small changes we can all make to reduce our carbon footprint, while protecting our natural environment. It is organised by Hertford Town Council as part of a wider programme of sustainability events in the town.
The event runs from 12noon to 4pm and will include garden games, junk modelling, a smoothie bike (pedal to make your own smoothie!), repair stall, information, advice, talks, workshops, food, drink and craft stalls and live entertainment. You can find out more about the wider list of Eco Fest events online at hertford.gov.uk.
‘Plantsman’s
garden’ to open to raise funds for National Gardens Scheme in May
Ware resident Peter Laing is once again opening his garden to the public under the National Gardens Scheme (NGS), this time on Sunday 25th May from 2pm to 5.30pm. The garden is at The Pines, 58 Hoe Lane, Ware SG12 9NZ. Teas will be available and visitors can park in Hertford Rugby Club’s car park in Hoe Lane, near the garden entrance. The NGS is a major supporter of medical charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support and Marie Curie and last year openings such as Peter’s helped the NGS raise a record sum of £3.5million.
At The Pines, you will find a plantsman’s garden, created by its present owner over 30 years. It has a formal front garden with a fountain, plus mature trees, herbaceous borders, island beds, a gravel garden pergola and an obelisk. More at ngs.org.uk.
Horticulture exhibition at Lowewood Museum
The Glasshouse Legacy is an exhibition tracing the story of horticulture in the Borough of Broxbourne and can be seen at Lowewood Museum in High Street, Hoddesdon until Saturday 28th June. The museum is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4.30pm. For more info visit lowewoodmuseum com.
Bringing the Arts to Life
The umbrella organisation for all local voluntary Arts, now in its 25th year! Broxbourne
Art, Dance, Drama, Music, Talks, Courses and Workshops.
A huge range of groups with three u3a branches
Themed Lunches:
May 16th Changing Tastes, June 18th Gently Zimmering, July 18th The Happiest Days of Our Lives. Sept 19th Your Kind of Music.
Children’s Summer Holiday Camps in Dance and Musical Theatre
Anything Goes
Tuesday 13th – Saturday 17th May 7.30pm, Saturday matinée 2.30pm
Tickets from £17
Woman Like Me –The Little Mix Show
Friday 30th May, 7pm
Tickets £19
An Evening with That’ll Be The Day’s Trevor & Gary
Sunday 8th June, 7pm
Tickets £27.50
Wyllyotts Box Office: 01707 645005
Wyllyotts Theatre, Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar EN6 2HZ wyllyottstheatre.co.uk
The Manfreds –Keeping it Live in ‘25
Featuring two of the original Manfred Mann members! Thursday 1 May, 7.30pm
Thank Abba for the Music
An epic two-hour ABBA-fest! Friday 16 May, 7.30pm
The Pasadena Roof Orchestra (matinee performance)
Step back into the glamorous world of the roaring ‘20s and ‘30s Saturday 17 May, 3pm
The Overtones –Up Close & Personal
Classic songs by some of the greatest artists of all time! Friday 23 May, 7.30pm
Milkshake! Live Sunday 25 May, 11am
The Dinosaur that Pooped a Rock Show Wednesday 28 May, 12noon and 3.30pm
Fireman Sam – The Great Camping Adventure Saturday 31 May, 11am and 2pm
Stevenage Football Club hands over the keys to its Lamex Stadium this late May bank holiday for an unmissable weekend of live music.
KB Concerts will present SMR 25 – featuring three days of great shows that will see nearly 10,000 people head to Stevenage to enjoy a huge rock line-up on Friday 23rd with Skindred headlining; a pop-dance line-up on Saturday 24th headlined by chart-topping Ella Henderson, and a legendary roster on Sunday 25th headed by Richard Ashcroft, famous frontman of The Verve.
Friday 23rd May
Skindred will take to the stage with their ragga-metal sound that has seen them wow crowds at every festival from Download to Reading and score four UK top 30 albums. Also playing on the Friday will be multi award-winning alternative punk duo Bob Vylan; Welsh rockers Those Damn Crows and punk-infused alt rockers Snayx.
Saturday 24th May
Pop and dance fans will be in their element with billion-streaming Ella Henderson headlining
The Bob Dylan tribute band The Bob Villains are playing a rare Hertford show at Hertford Corn Exchange on Sunday 4th May, with doors opening at 2.30pm. The band, who have been performing their homage to Dylan for 15 years, will be supported by an unplugged set from Brett Marvin and the Thunderbolts.
Tickets £12 in advance from cornexchangehertford.co.uk or £15 on the door.
Saturday’s concert. With number one albums and singles, plus collaborations with some of the industry’s biggest names, she is truly modern pop royalty! Platinum-selling JP Cooper, Sigala and rising star Eirra will also be performing.
Sunday 25th May
Bona fide indie legend Richard Ashcroft was the frontman for The Verve, writing seminal tunes such as Bittersweet Symphony and The Drugs Don’t Work, and he has continued that success into his solo career. In support will be
The Zutons (writers of the classic Valerie), The Futureheads, whose cover of The Hounds of Love was NME’s single of the year, and local indie rockers Optimist.
Venue & ticket info
The Lamex Stadium is in Broadhall Way, Stevenage SG2 8RH and each day will run from 3pm to 10.30pm, with last entry at 8pm.
Tickets start at £40 for the Friday and £50 for the Saturday and Sunday shows.
Find out more and buy tickets at smr.uk or Eventbrite.com.
Tribute group Thank ABBA for The Music, featuring Ware resident Kaitee as Agnetha, promise a great night out for fans of the Swedish super troupers at The Spotlight in Hoddesdon on Friday 16th May at 7.30pm. The two-hour concert features all of the band’s iconic hits, including Dancing Queen, Waterloo, SOS, Take a Chance on Me and many more. All tickets £27.50 from 01992 441946 or at thespotlightvenue.com.
Encounters is the title of a season of events being held at Henry Moore Studios and Gardens in Perry Green near Much Hadham this spring and summer.
The season will celebrate the inspiring and transformative encounters between the renowned 20th century sculptor and the people, objects and ideas in his orbit during his active career and beyond.
This month, Moore, Architecture and Public Space is a discussion exploring Moore’s collaborations with architects and his role in developing the symbiotic relationship between sculpture and architecture that helped change public perceptions of public space in the built environment.
The conversation will be introduced and moderated by Laura Barlow, senior curator of collections and research at Henry Moore Studios and Gardens. It will be held in the Aisled Barn at the venue (SG10 6EE)
on Thursday 8th May at 5pm. Tickets are £10.
This season also sees an expanded offering of family activities with free activity packs and sheets for children and handson activities for them and their adults taking place daily. All activities are included in the price of your admission ticket which then gives you unlimited entry for 12 months. Prices are £19.50 for adults, £9 for children, from £32 for a family.
Moore’s home and the surrounding land where a large selection of his sculptures are displayed in the landscape in which they were created, will be open from Wednesday to Sunday and bank holidays until 2nd November this year.
Visit henry-moore.org for more information.
Broxbourne Arts Forum, known locally as BArts, is celebrating its 25th anniversary of providing an annual arts programme for the borough.
BArts is a voluntary community organisation which acts as an umbrella group for a variety of local arts groups – its current membership consists of 25 such groups, including most of the local dance and theatre schools, plus three local u3as and around 70 patrons and friends, whose subscriptions help to sustain its annual programme of events.
BArts is both a promoter of the arts in Broxbourne (publicising information through three printed programmes and a monthly e-newsletter called The Broadsheet) and an arts provider, organising a series of events through the year.
These have included a mixture of professional and amateur events, with classical music concerts, opera, open-air Shakespeare,
watercolour classes, art exhibitions, dance galas, literary events, themed lunches, workshops and competitions.
Since its foundation back in the year 2000, BArts has consistently provided an enhanced arts programme in Broxbourne.
And under the title The Artful Badger, it has helped to improve facilities and opportunities for local schools and initiated annual awards for excellence in arts subjects. It also provides four annual grants to help outstanding students with equipment,
examination or audition costs. Among this year’s programme will be an open-air production of Alice in Wonderland on Saturday 23rd August at The Spotlight. To find out more about the organisation, visit broxbournearts.org.uk.
Join us from 23-27 July, to celebrate the rich tapestry of folk music in all its forms.
The Roman Open Air Theatre season at St Albans returns for its 11th year this summer.
Presented by acclaimed theatre production company OVO, the 2025 outdoor festival promises a series of unforgettable performances in one of the UK’s most historic settings – and it’s right on our doorsteps here in Hertfordshire.
Set against the backdrop of the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, this open-air festival takes place in the UK’s oldest producing theatre, dating back to 140 AD, and features innovative adaptations of classic plays and vibrant musical performances.
Shakespeare is at the heart of the Roman Theatre programme and this year OVO presents a 1970s musical adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, followed by a lively and comedic production of Hamlet by The Pantaloons. Classic plays this summer will include Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables and a fresh take on F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby that will be performed with a live jazz soundtrack capturing the energy and excess of the 1920s.
Local and youth groups will also be performing, with Herts-based Act 4 presenting A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The
Forum, and OVO’s youth ensemble putting on Lord of the Flies. Together with musical nights ranging from An Evening with Mark Morriss of The Bluetones to live 80s band Our Friends Electric, there should be something for everyone this summer. The festival runs from 6th June to 31st August and ticket sales are now open, including for season tickets which give entry to all five main theatre shows just £75 for adults, £50 for under-18s. Book, and find the full programme, at ovo.org.uk. The Roman Theatre of Verulamium is in Bluehouse Hill, St Albans AL3 6AE.
The 72nd Open exhibition organised by Hertford Art Society will be held this month. More than 300 works of art will be shown at Cowbridge Halls in Cowbridge, Hertford SG14 1PG from Saturday 3rd to Saturday 10th May. The exhibition will be open daily from 10am to 8pm, apart from Sunday, when it will be open from 10am to 5pm. One of the most prestigious Opens in the south-east, the exhibition features works by both professionals and talented amateur artists. For more details visit hertfordartsociety.co.uk.
Hertfordshire Festival of Music 2025
The Hertfordshire Festival of Music returns from 7th to 14th June. The year’s theme will be Shadows to Light: Musical Journeys in Conflict and Peace, and will feature a combination of high quality performances, discussions and outreach projects that will be centred on Hertford. The box office will open in May. For further information, visit hertsmusicfest.org.uk.
Made In Dagenham, The Musical, by Broxbourne Theatre Company, runs at The Spotlight in Hoddesdon from Wednesday 7th to Saturday 10th May. The story is about women fighting against discrimination at the Ford Motor Company. Tickets are £17.50 and £19.50 (family of four £60 and £64). Curtain up is 7.30pm each evening with a matinée on the Saturday at 3pm. Call 01992 441946 for tickets or visit broxbournetheatrecompany.co.uk.
Thunderbolts (12A)
Now showing
A new superheroes film based on Marvel Comics and this time featuring the team Thunderbolts. After finding themselves ensnared in a death trap, this unconventional team of antiheroes must embark on a dangerous mission that will force them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts. Florence Pugh heads the cast.
Mother’s Pride (12A)
Now showing
An independent British comedy drama starring Mark Addy, Jonno Davies, Martin Clunes and James Buckley about a failing pub, a divided community and a grieving family whose lives are changed by brewing real ale and entering the Great British Beer Awards. The comedy royalty cast is further enhanced by Josie Lawrence, Miles Jupp and Gabriella Wilde.
The Extraordinary Miss Flower (12A)
Out on Friday 9th May
This brings to life the remarkable story of the extraordinary Geraldine Flower and the discovery of a suitcase of letters sent to her in the 1960s and 70s which
suggest she may have lived a secret double life as a spy. The discovery inspired the acclaimed Icelandic singer-songwriter Emiliana Torrini to return to the studio, and she performs 10 songs during the film, also acting alongside Caroline Catz (as Miss Flower). Richard Ayoade and Nick Cave appear in a diverse cast that features the voice of Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning (12A)
Out on Wednesday 21st May
Tom Cruise is IMF agent Ethan Hunt again in the eighth instalment in the franchise, and the direct successor to the seventh – Dead Reckoning Part One. Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Vanessa Kirby and others also reprise their roles from previous films. Hunt and his team go on a mission to stop a man named Gabriel before he can obtain an AI program that could weaken the world’s stability. Might be a bit late – an elected US President has already done that.
Lilo and Stitch (U)
Out on Friday 23rd May
A live action reimagining of
The Phoenician Scheme (12A) Out on Friday 30th May
The unique Wes Anderson is back. His latest, an espionage black comedy, is written and directed by Anderson from a story he conceived with Roman
Coppola. The expected strong cast includes Mia Threapleton, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Scarlett Johansson and Benedict Cumberbatch and the story follows wealthy businessman Zsa-Zsa Corda who appoints his only daughter, a nun, as sole heir to his estate.
As Korda embarks upon a new enterprise, they soon become the target of scheming tycoons, foreign terrorists and determined assassins.
Lighthouse is a new arthouse cinema series running at BEAM Hertford, showcasing films that have something extraordinary to say. The Lighthouse-branded films will be shown every other Thursday at 7pm and will focus on stories that matter and that are steeped in BEAM’s foundational values of being bold, kind and aware. Tickets start at £6. The series was due to launch on Thursday 1st May with the showing of Young Hearts, which sees 14-year-old Elias make friends with his new neighbour Alexander before finding himself confused by his romantic feelings for him.
The next two films are: Thursday 15th May: An Army of Women (15) – documentary
about a class action lawsuit against the US city of Austin by victims of sexual assault let down by law enforcement.
Thursday 29th May: Ernest Cole: Lost and Found (15) – an unflinching examination of the life and work of influential South African photographer Ernest Cole, including detailed references to the brutal acts of the Apartheid regime.
Patrice Robinson, BEAM’s cinema programmer, said: “Lighthouse brings you a variety of arthouse films that you won’t always see elsewhere. You’ll discover encouraging, enriching and engaging stories that are often off the beaten track, but right here in Hertford, every fortnight. Book at beamhertford.com.
Spoil the father figures in your life with a delicious three-course carvery lunch in the stunning Lakeside Pavilion. Relax and enjoy great food, good company and beautiful surroundings.
Sunday 15th June, 12.30pm – 2.30pm
Adults £45, children under 10 £22.50, under 4 £15
Discover the history and beauty of our eclectic Japanese and formal gardens, with a guided tour led by our talented gardener Amber. Followed by an indulgent afternoon tea in our Jacobean mansion.
Sunday 25th May at 11.30am, 1pm, or 2.30pm
Afternoon tea between 12.30pm - 4pm
Adults £42.50, children under 10 £20
01920 460511 fanhamshall@exclusive.co.uk exclusive.co.uk/fanhams-hall
Fanhams Hall Road, Ware Hertfordshire SG12 7PZ
‘A moment to remember, an estate you’ll never forget’
Brookmans in Brookmans Park has launched a collaboration with celebrity chef and author Gemma Ogston to add bright and beautiful plant-based dishes to its spring menu.
Brighton-based Gemma is a chef, recipe developer and writer who is passionate about plant-based living and community wellness, and is also the founder of Gem’s Wholesome Kitchen, a public health initiative offering workshops and resources to help families on a budget, as well as the author of two best-selling cookbooks.
One of the highlights of Brookmans’ new spring menu is one of Gemma’s best-known and best-loved dishes, her famous Rainbow Lasagne. One of the first dishes she created, and loved by anyone she has ever cooked it for, it is both colourful and comforting – basically spring on a plate!
Packed with seasonal veg, béchamel and fresh pesto, it features 15 different vegetables from sweet red pepper to butternut squash and comes with a cashew sauce for added protein. Brookmans is donating 25p from every Rainbow Lasagne it sells to Fareshare UK, which fights hunger and food waste.
The pub’s manager, Jamie West, said: “Gemma’s passion for nourishing food that’s as good for the soul as it is for the planet means that her values align perfectly with ours – thoughtfully-sourced ingredients, bold seasonal flavours and taking care of the people who make it happen.”
Gemma Ogston said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to be working with such a good bunch of people. I really love this pub, the energy, the vibe and the menu. The ethos around using really good quality
meat and veg and around eating seasonally is fantastic.”
As well as Gemma’s Rainbow Lasagne, other options on the new menu that offer wellness and great taste are the new Nourish Bowl – buckwheat, cumin roasted sweet potato, smacked cucumber, citrus ponzu and sesame – and a zingy watermelon, edamame and rice noodle salad with chilli, peanuts and tom yum dressing.
The Brookmans menu also features starters such as Devon crab and leek tart with free range poached egg and watercress, and mains including Cornish lamb shepherd’s pie.
The new spring menu will be served every day until mid-June.
Brookmans Bradmore Green, Brookmans Park AL9 7QW 01707 664144 brookmanspub.co.uk
The George IV is combining great food with great music on Friday 9th May when singer Cara Beard will be appearing live at the Great Amwell pub from 7.30pm. The George, which serves excellent restaurant food in a relaxed atmosphere, is also home to Dart Club, which is located in its rear courtyard. This interactive darts game is available for exclusive use for up to 20 guests and costs £10.50 per person per hour –great for fun with friends and family or team building exercises. Call 01920 870039 to find out more or book.
Nolaki in Stansted has launched a great value lunch menu, offering an opportunity to experience its Turkish cuisine during the day at very attractive prices.
The two-course lunch is just £14.95 with a three-course option for £17.95.
The new menu is available Monday to Friday from 12noon to 4pm.
Nolaki, which is the sister restaurant to Hertford-based Veyso’s and can be found in Silver Street, Stansted Mountfitchet, is also now serving roasts every Sunday between 12noon and 5pm. Call 01279 812964 or visit nolaki.co.uk to book or find out more.
Esquires Coffee has opened in the centre of Hertford, replacing the former Bebo café on the corner of Bull Plain, Railway Street and Salisbury Square.
Technically at no.1 Railway Street, the new coffee shop opened its doors last month after the building had undergone a full refurbishment aimed at making the most of its historic features while creating a warm, modern and welcoming feel.
Esquires coffee shops are operated as franchises rather than a traditional chain.
As well as coffee made with Fairtrade and organic beans, you will find a breakfast and brunch menu of food including everything from poached eggs on sourdough to pancakes with bacon, porridge bowls and smashed avocado. Oh – and a full English and Esquires full vegan breakfast too!
On the lunch menu are fresh sandwiches and jacket potatoes as well as soup, melts and toasties.
To find out more about the story behind the Esquires brand, visit esquirescoffee.co.uk.
Nolaki is a high quality Turkish restaurant that has taken over the former Cock pub in Stansted Mountfitchet and transformed it into a stunning contemporary restaurant with an elegant interior and inventive dishes. Open seven days from 12noon until late, Nolaki offers lunch, dinner, fabulous wines and stunning cocktails. The restaurant is also available for private hire. From Monday to Friday 12-4pm it has a superb value two-course lunch menu for just £14.95 and a three-course lunch menu for £17.95. On Sunday, roasts are served from 12-5pm.
30 Silver Street, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8HD 01279 812964
nolaki.co.uk
The award-winning Veyso’s has long been one of Hertford’s most talked-about restaurants. Its chefs use the finest ingredients and traditional skills to produce innovative signature dishes and desirable cocktails in a bold and stunning environment. Behind the doors of Veyso’s lies an interior as well crafted as the food, with hand-carved wall art, mother of pearl-embedded wall beams – and the iconic Veyso’s staircase that leads to the basement. Open 7 days a week, Veyso’s has a menu for every occasion, from a light lunch to a great celebration.
97-101 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1AS 01992 550055
veysos.co.uk
Ruay Rôt means ‘rich in flavour’ in Thai and that is precisely what the food you can order for takeaway or delivery from Hertford’s newest eatery is. Just down the road from its previous and hugely popular Baan Thitiya restaurant, this new takeaway outlet offers authentic Thai food for you to enjoy at home, continuing Baan Thitiya’s story after 20 years in Hertford. You can order by phone or through the GoGetters and Deliveroo apps for delivery to Hertford, Ware and Hoddesdon. The menu includes many vegan specials. Outside tables are also available on warmer days.
6 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RB 01992 587706
ruayrôt.co.uk
The George IV offers exceptional restaurant cuisine within a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The team serve fresh and seasonal dishes, on both an à la carte and small plate menu, which can be enjoyed on the sun-drenched terrace over the summer months. Dart Club, located in the rear courtyard, is an interactive dart game that’s ideal for birthdays, team-building or just a friendly competition! The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event, such as an intimate wedding, baby shower, birthday or a special anniversary.
Cautherly Lane, Great Amwell SG12 9SW 01920 870039
info@georgeivpub.co.uk georgeivpub.co.uk
Italian & Turkish
Pircio is a family-run independent restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford that offers two different menus of Italian and Turkish cuisine. Both menus are cooked by teams of specialist chefs and diners can choose from pizza, pasta and other Italian classics or dishes such as halloumi, falafel, moussaka and lamb tagine. The historic Drill Hall building has been smartly refurbished and can seat 200 people downstairs whilst there is also a mezzanine for private dining. Pircio is open seven days a week, all day.
Drill Hall, Market Square
Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU 01279 898181
pirciorestaurant.com
No.14, in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is taking Asian Fusion dining and luxury to new heights in the town. No expense has been spared on the interior decor at this three-storey venue. An updated range of menus has been launched, with new à la carte, sushi and Sunday roast menus all available. On Tuesday, you can enjoy limitless sushi, and on Sunday both brunch and roasts are served. There is now also a DJ every Friday, Saturday and Sunday with live jazz every Thursday. Book the Chef’s Table for the best seats in the house.
14 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 597548 no-14.com
Meze Bar & Grill
Based in the former Old Star pub in Wormley, Broxbourne, Manto’s restaurant offers authentic Turkish cuisine with a modern twist, using only the finest ingredients for its dishes. Taking inspiration from the heritage of Turkey and ancient Mediterranean cooking techniques, Manto’s aims to celebrate regional flavours and give a true flavour of the Mediterranean. The restaurant is open seven days a week 12noon to midnight, offering lunch, food throughout the afternoon and dinner. The kitchen closes at 10pm.There is also free parking for customers.
32 High Road, Wormley EN10 6LE 01992 414301 mantosrestaurant.com
The Golden Fleece is an old English pub with a contemporary twist, and one where the food is so good that it has earned an entry in the Michelin Guide for Hotels and Restaurants. Set at the heart of the village of Braughing, Jess and Peter Tatlow’s pub offers a menu of fresh, seasonal and delicious locally sourced food and also caters for diners who require gluten-free meals. As a freehouse at the heart of its community, the Fleece is also able to offer a wide range of real ales, beers, wines and spirits. A takeaway menu is also available.
20 Green End, Braughing SG11 2PG 01920 823555 goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk
Roni’s, set in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is a fine dining restaurant where both the quality of food and the service combine to offer guests a memorable experience. Roni’s offers a wide range of traditional dishes, passionately crafted, including a vegan menu. There is a set lunch menu (Tuesday-Saturday) and a set evening menu (Tuesday-Thursday) while superb roasts are served on Sundays. You can also book the private dining room for your group or family. Roni’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon, and closed on Monday.
16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856 ronisrestaurant.co.uk
