Axis magazine November 2023 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally November 2023

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE NEARLY THERE...

Hertford’s Lea Wharf close to completion

SHOPPING NEWS

All the latest from our high streets

FAMILY FAVOURITES

Book your tickets now for this year’s pantomimes

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Your guide to the Christmas lights switch-ons

FESTIVE DINING

Plan for Christmas with our food and drink pages

Your leading high quality local news magazine since 2003

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WELCOME

NOVEMBER 2023 | NO. 250

What’s inside this issue ABOUT AXIS

05-10 y Briefing We bring you up to date on the major local developments

11-16 y Shopping news Artist Donna Reeves opens her new shop and studio in Ware

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

We are the independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters in and around eastern Hertfordshire and we aim to provide a concise, useful guide to local life.

Our editorial content is targeted towards readers’ interests, to maximise readership and gain the best exposure for our advertisers.

The magazine is delivered to homes and businesses in selected areas and copies can also be picked up free from venues across the area.

CONTACT US

Axis Magazine, Lyric House, 6b St Andrew St, Hertford SG14 1JA 01992 500198 info@axispublications.co.uk axismagazine.co.uk

PUBLISHERS:

Aaron Gransby & Justine Woods

DIGITAL EDITION: Read us online at axismagazine.co.uk or issuu.com (search axis magazine)

23-28 y What’s on Your guide to the best events in the run-up to Christmas

29-35 y Food & drink Pre-Christmas dining and the latest new openings

17-19 y HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLBEING: Salons launch new treatments 21 y PROPERTY NEWS: Lea Wharf apartments available for rent Front cover images (clockwise from top) Snow Forest by Suman Gujral, showing at Present Arts in The Gallery at Parndon Mill (p25); Hatfield Park’s Fantastical Christmas Revels (p26); French onion soup at No.5 Eat and Drink in Hertford (p29); Trolls Band Together, showing at local cinemas now (p26); Ben Parsley as Silly Billy in Beauty and the Beast at Harlow Playhouse (p25); Lea Wharf in Hertford (p5 and 21).

SUBSCRIBE For just £30 per year we’ll send you your own copy of Axis by post upon publication each month.

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

ADVERTISE

Here at Axis we look to build long-lasting relationships with local businesses that understand the benefits of advertising to an affluent and intelligent audience on a regular, ongoing basis.

To find out more about promoting your business with us please call 01992 500198. axis magazine 3

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BRIEFING

NEWS WORTH KNOWING

Lea Wharf: first openings before the end of this year The first units at Hertford’s flagship Lea Wharf development are now expected to open before the end of the year, with the remainder following in the first few months of 2024.

Lea Wharf is a mixed commercial and residential development from Welwyn Garden City-based Chase New Homes which has replaced the former Bircherley Green shopping centre between Railway Street and the riverside.

The wharf-inspired architecture features two buildings, each containing commercial units at ground level with smart one and two-bedroom apartments above, either side of a walkway through to the river that includes a new public square.

The biggest retail unit in the development is to be occupied by Boots, which is set to open before the end of the year. Almost opposite it in the development will be an enlarged new GP surgery and health centre, run by the current Wallace House practice in St Andrew Street.

That too is now due to open before the end of the year. The hoardings currently in place just beyond WH Smith in Bircherley Green will be moved back beyond Boots and the

medical centre when they open to allow access for customers and patients.

Chase says the whole development is due to be completed in February 2024, including the remaining commercial units which will then be handed over to their new tenants.

Their individual opening dates will then depend upon their own fit-out schedules.

As previously reported by Axis, these include riverside restaurants Vault and Loungers, as well as Loco gym and Card Factory.

The public car park, which has been closed since the demolition of the old Bircherley Green Centre, will reopen in February.

Apartments for rent

Meanwhile, as Axis went to print, just seven of the 41 apartments in Charter House, one of the two blocks, remained for sale, with many residents already in place.

Chase has now decided to offer all 44 apartments in the second building, named Navigation House, for private rental.

For full details of this, see our property news page on page 21 of this magazine.

A bird’s eye view of Lea Wharf as it approaches completion

Cheshunt Lakeside in limbo as developer goes into administration Inland Homes PLC and Cheshunt Lakeside Developments Ltd, the company that it set up to deliver the planned redevelopment of the 30-acre former Tesco HQ site in Cheshunt, have gone into administration.

The Cheshunt Lakeside scheme, which received outline planning permission from Broxbourne Council back in 2019, is one of the biggest regeneration schemes the borough has seen and is set to provide up to 1,725 new homes along with new retail, leisure and office facilities and a new primary school.

The site, which lies immediately to the north of Cheshunt Station, runs

parallel with the West Anglia main railway line between Windmill Lane and Cadmore Lane.

The development is being built in phases.

So far, 195 affordable homes for rent and shared ownership through housing association B3 Living, plus 22 private apartments for sale and a supermarket unit have been completed.

Inland Homes PLC signalled its intention to appoint administrators at the end of September.

London-based Kroll Advisory have been appointed administrators for Cheshunt Lakeside Development Limited.

While the future for the overall

scheme is not clear at this stage, it is likely to be of interest to other developers and it is possible that administrators could sell the project on.

In the meantime, on learning the news, B3 Living published an update for residents who have already moved into the completed phase of the site. It says residents may be affected as Inland Homes will no longer be able to coordinate any repairs needed within properties, something they would normally be responsible for within the first year.

There are also garden area works yet to be completed.

The housing association says it will help wherever it can. axis magazine 5

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BRIEFING

County council draws up plans to keep budget on track as costs continue to rise Hertfordshire County Council has drawn up plans to balance its books while protecting essential services in the light of a predicted £16.4million overspend in the financial year to March 2024.

The authority says it also faces financial pressures into future years.

Last year (2022/23) it delivered a balanced budget despite a backdrop of rising costs of materials and energy and a higher demand for its services.

However, inflation remains high, and demand has continued to increase, especially in children’s services where the council, in line with many others across the country, says it is seeing the children it supports experiencing higher levels of need, and the cost of that support increasing.

The council plans to use £10million from contingency budgets to bridge the spending gap this year, leaving £6.4million to be found from a variety of internal cost-saving measures.

These include a freeze on all but essential posts, initially until March next year, in what it calls a “recruitment prioritisation exercise” whereby recruitment will be largely limited to statutory posts and considered on a case by case basis for other vacancies. It is hoped that this could save between £1million and £3million.

All council departments are also

Ware votes Yes in Neighbourhood Plan referendum

County Hall and, below, council leader Cllr Richard Roberts

being asked to identify “underspends”.

Now and in the future further savings are expected to be made through the ongoing transfer of services from County Hall to the council’s Stevenage campus.

Hertfordshire County Council leader Cllr Richard Roberts said: “We are not in the same position

as some other councils who have declared financial distress. In February of this year we set a balanced budget, but as you would expect, the external challenges we’ve faced mean that we are forecasting a shortfall this year. While the pace of change in our financial picture is demanding, I’m confident that our proactive and proportionate approach will enable us to deliver a balanced budget by the end of the financial year while continuing to deliver excellent council services for all.

“This can’t be done by sitting still. We have acted decisively and have already started making bold decisions and identifying significant savings and opportunities to positively transform the way we operate.”

‘Hamburger’ roundabout among plans to improve A10 Major road improvement works could help to tackle congestion and air pollution along the A10 in Broxbourne if a bid to the Department for Transport for funding is successful.

Working with the Borough of Broxbourne, Hertfordshire County Council, which is the tier of local government responsible for highways, is leading on a project which is proposing measures to tackle congestion at three junctions with the road – at Church Lane, College Road and Lieutenant Ellis Way/ Winston Churchill Way. Under the plans, which are currently being worked up, right-turn movements onto the A10 would

be banned from Church Lane in Broxbourne.

At the junction between the A10 and College Road a new southbound left filter lane would be created into College Road which leads towards Cheshunt’s Old Pond.

And at the junction between the A10 and Lieutenant Ellis Way a new ‘hamburger’ style roundabout would give priority to those travelling north-south towards the M25.

There are a range of other improvements also proposed, including for pedestrians, cyclists and buses, within the package of measures.

The A10 is designated a part of the

UK’s Major Route Network and as such, an important road linking local A roads to the national strategic road network (ie motorways and trunk roads).

It is regularly congested and tackling this will not only speed up travel but reduce pollution and ensure the area is prepared for the new homes and jobs expected to be created locally in the next 10 years.

In October, Broxbourne Council agreed to commit £7.9million towards the changes. It is hoped the Government will provide the remainder of the £30million needed for the works. If it does so, work could begin early in 2026.

The people of Ware voted in favour of a new Neighbourhood Plan for the town at a referendum held at the end of September.

The result of the Yes vote was announced after the poll, held on Thursday 28th September, and saw a 91 per cent majority in favour of the plan.

There were 2,221 votes for Yes and 225 for no, with two votes discounted. The turnout was 16.6 per cent of eligible voters.

The plan sets out planning policies for the area, which are then used to help decide planning applications. The point of a Neighbourhood Plan is that it is written and approved by the local community, people who know and care about the area, rather than by the local planning authority (East Herts Council). The plan becomes a powerful tool that helps to ensure the community gets the right types of development, in the right place.

The Ware Neighbourhood Plan has been actively worked on since 2019 by a steering group made up of members of the local community and involved public consultations in which hundreds of residents took part.

The Mayor of Ware, Cllr Thomas Day, said: “I’d like to offer my huge congratulations and thanks to the Ware Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group for their tireless work and dedication over the years in creating this comprehensive document. They have carried it along the challenging road to approval at the referendum. Their dedication to the town is an excellent example of the community spirit that makes this such a special place to live – a place worth protecting.”

The Neighbourhood Plan will now be adopted by East Herts Council and will become part of the statutory development plan against which relevant planning applications will be determined. axis magazine 7

BRIEFING

Council Chairman stands down in social media row Nick Cox (pictured below) wants to protect chalk streams, like this one in Wareside

Green candidate calls for action on chalk streams Nick Cox, the Green Party Parliamentary candidate for Hertford and Stortford, has called on the Environment Agency to review housing developments planned in Hertfordshire to protect the county’s rare chalk streams.

Chalk streams are among some of our most beautiful rivers. Their pure, clear and constant water from underground chalk aquifers and springs, flowing across flinty gravel beds, make them perfect sources of clean water – and ideal for lots of wild creatures to breed and thrive.

But constant development can lead to the chalk streams being both polluted, because of the increase in population, and depleted because they are often used to supply water for homes.

In June, the agency objected to planning applications for around 5,000 homes in Cambridgeshire, arguing that the water supply for them posed a risk to chalk streams and wetland habitats.

But they haven’t, as yet, made the same objections to some developments planned in Hertfordshire, even though the county has between 10 and 20 per cent of the world’s 240 chalk streams.

Mr Cox said: “Although the Environment Agency has objected to the development of 1,800 homes in Ware, they haven’t raised any objection to the Gilston development for 10,000 homes just five miles to the east. And although they have objected to the Bengeo Field development in Hertford, it’s on the grounds that there’s a risk of pollution to groundwater, it’s not about water supply issues.

“They urgently need to review all of these developments together.”

Cllr Martin Butcher has stepped down from the role of Chairman of East Herts Council after five months following a storm over comments on social media.

Mr Butcher, who was elected in May as a Green Party councillor, retweeted comments that were interpreted by political opponents as criticising Israel following Hamas’s 7th October attacks.

Mr Butcher also directly criticised Ukraine’s President Zelensky, posting a reply to the president’s condemnation of the attack that said: “Funny, I had believed you were against the belligerent occupation of other people’s land.

Clearly you’re not.”

He faced immediate criticism from Hertford and Stortford’s Conservative MP Julie Marson who wrote to council leader Ben Crystall and chief executive Richard Cassidy to ask what action would be taken against him. She said Mr Butcher’s actions were “deplorable”.

And Hertford and Stortford Labour Party issued a statement calling upon him to resign as both Chairman and a councillor.

A brief statement from East Herts Council followed within days which stated: “Cllr Martin Butcher has announced his resignation as Chairman of East Herts Council with immediate effect.”

East Herts Council’s leader, the Green Party’s Cllr Ben Crystall, said: “I would like to thank Martin

Cllr Martin Butcher

for his service to date. Over the past six months, Martin has supported the council in fulfilling its civic duties and championed various local initiatives. However, it has become clear that he wishes to ensure recent events do not distract from the pressing local matters we are confronting here in East Herts, and I respect his decision to stand down.”

Cllr Calvin Horner, Liberal Democrat councillor for Bishop’s Stortford Parsonage ward, was elected as the council’s new Chair, with Cllr Maura Connolly, Green member for Hertford Kingsmead, elected as Vice Chair.

Mr Butcher will continue to represent Ware St Mary’s ward, though he is now listed as an Independent rather than a Green Party councillor on East Herts’ website.

He also remains a Green Party councillor on Ware Town Council and Deputy Mayor of Ware.

Henry Moore Foundation gains permission for new learning centre The Henry Moore Foundation has secured planning permission for an exciting project that will transform the Sheep Field Barn Gallery at Henry Moore Studios and Gardens in Perry Green, near Much Hadham.

The existing gallery will be developed into a dedicated learning and exhibition space open to all visitors to the venue, which showcases the life and work of the renowned sculptor at the home he lived and worked in for much of his life.

The Foundation worked with architects DSDHA on the plan and says the planning approval marks a significant milestone in its 8 axis magazine

commitment to visitor engagement and education.

The project will create two state of the art exhibition spaces, offering cutting-edge facilities for immersive learning experiences. DSDHA’s proposal is for a simple, unified building which retains the structure of the existing barn, extending and overcladding the existing steel frame building. The extension will provide views of the sheep fields beyond the barn and aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to sustainability by contributing to its aspiration of becoming carbon net-zero.

Work is set to start in spring 2024.

An external view of the proposed new centre

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BRIEFING

My month’s work – from constituency to conference

JULIE MARSON

MP FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Repair Café in Sawbridgeworth, who managed to repair my broken British Legion commemorative military figure. It was a fiddly job but Chris expertly managed it! They have a great setup there and have the most lovely cakes too. Thank you to Chris for his excellent repairs and thank you to the entire team at the Repair Café for hosting me.

Banking updates

I’m delighted that Ware will soon have a much-needed banking hub. I’ve campaigned for a shared infrastructure bank following the

unfortunate loss of all six high street banks in Ware, something which also prompted my campaign to save our High Street Post Office.

I met with Link, the organisation responsible for assessing access to cash needs, to specifically consider Ware’s case. Link conducted a comprehensive review and, after careful evaluation, agreed with my assessment, recommending Ware as an ideal location for a new banking hub.

I’m grateful to Link for acting on our request. This hub will undoubtedly make a significant difference to our community. Access to cash in Ware is vital, especially

Mercedes-Benz Specialist

I was helped by Chris at Sawbridgeworth’s Repair Café

after losing our high street banks.

I’m delighted that we will soon have banking services available at the re-opened Post Office and the shared infrastructure bank.

I’ve asked Link to also look at both Hertford and Sawbridgeworth for similar solutions, given their recent bank closures. I want to hear your views on both of these, so please take part in my banking surveys at juliemarson.org.uk.

On the buses

I am pleased that the government are investing a further £80million to protect essential bus services that will enable local authorities to make travel improvements in their communities. Hertfordshire County Council will receive nearly £1.5 million in funding. Across east Hertfordshire our bus services are vital for many residents who are unable to drive, including many older or disabled residents.

A useful conference

I was at the Conservative Party conference last month, where I had the opportunity to speak to the Alzheimer’s Society about the

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incredibly valuable work they do on behalf of patients. Alzheimer’s is one of the six major conditions in the government’s new Major Conditions Strategy, with funding for Alzheimer’s research set to reach £160million next year. The recent clinical trial results for new drugs which demonstrate a reduction in the rate of decline in memory and thinking are truly encouraging to see.

I also dropped in to see the National Farmers Union. We talked about the importance of food security and sustainable farming and how beloved our farmers are, with the public now ranking farming as one of the most favourable occupations, second only to nursing. I am always happy to show my support for British farmers and growers and the high-quality, environmentally friendly and nutritious food they produce.

How to get in touch

If you ever require assistance, have concerns, or wish to share your thoughts, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at julie.marson.mp@parliament.uk.

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SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

Artist Donna Reeves opens new shop and studio in Ware A new working studio, shop and creative hub has been opened in Ware by ceramic and mosaic artist Donna Reeves. & by Donna Reeves is located in the Baldock Street premises formerly home to the Niko Brown gallery which sold the work of the Hertford-based glass artist along with that of other local artists and makers. Niko has relocated her home and glass business to the Cornish coast.

Donna is an established and recognised mosaic artist. After graduating with a degree in art she received a scholarship to study in Ravenna, the home of mosaics in Italy, before setting up her business Donna Reeves Mosaics in 1996 and designing and installing mosaics for interior designers, public bodies and private clients in the UK, Far East and US. Her commissions have included mosaic works for Sir Terence Conran’s restaurants, George and Olivia Harrison’s private office and Channel 4, who commissioned her to lead a community art project.

She has written several books on mosaics and featured in interior design publications and on TV home improvement shows. & by Donna Reeves was originally born out of her need for a working studio and retail space to sell her own work. But the idea quickly developed into more ambitious plans and the shop also offers items, handpicked and curated by Donna, from other artists specialising in art, fashion and the home.

While there is a supportive bias towards items created in Donna’s home town of Ware as well as the wider county, Donna plans to introduce new brands and designers from across the UK and Europe.

She has also created rentable artists’ ‘pods’ within the shop offering local artists the opportunity to become an ‘artist in residence’ for a period and promote their work.

The inaugural artist in residence is Eva Rueda, a Spanish painter who specialises in watercolour portraits and digital painting.

There are also regular art workshops for all ages – with the leadup to Christmas offering sessions in lino printing, clay decoration making and Christmas wreath making to name but a few.

Outside the shop is a vending machine where you can get a little piece of art on demand.

An ingenious idea – in exchange for two pound coins the machine delivers a piece of ‘pocket art’ created by an artist whose name will be revealed on the box and which could be anything from a miniature lino print to a keyring or pair of silver earrings.

During November the shop is open from 9.30am to 7pm on Wednesdays and from 9.30am to 5pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. & by Donna Reeves 27a Baldock Street, Ware SG12 9DH 01920 405058 07809 332241 andbydonnareeves.com

Poundland replaces Wilko and O2 prepares to open store in Jackson Square Poundland has taken over the premises formerly home to Wilko in Bishop’s Stortford’s Jackson Square shopping centre.

The new branch of the discount retailer opened on Saturday 21st October just three weeks after Wilko closed its doors in the wake of the chain’s collapse. A number of former Wilko staff have secured positions within the new store.

Poundland offers household essentials, beauty products, stationery and seasonal goods with a mix of branded and own brand products.

The opening comes alongside news that O2 is also set to open a new shop at Jackson Square.

The company is refurbishing the Potter Street premises previously home to Accessorize. It promises the latest phones and an accessory bay with demo products, including gadgets and speakers. An O2 spokesman said: “We are putting the finishing touches to our store in Bishop’s Stortford, which is set to open on 15th November. We look forward to welcoming both new and existing customers.”

Phone and tech shop O2 opens in Bishop’s Stortford on 15th November axis magazine 11

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM LOVE HODDESDON BID

Thousands flock to town centre to keep Hoddesdon thriving Love Hoddesdon BID manager Claire Bayless updates us on a busy season of events

Over 7,000 people Rocked Around the Clock Tower

As always, we have been very busy in Hoddesdon.

In August we held our first outdoor cinema event in conjunction with Broxbourne Council which was attended by more than 500 people.

We then held our third Rock Around the Clock Tower event with The Hoddesdon Allstars which was attended by more than 7,000 people and raised an amazing £21,000 for Great Ormond Street Hospital.

In September we held our third Love Hoddesdon Food and Drink Festival, bringing street food to the town centre along with DJs and children’s entertainment.

Remembrance Sunday Parade Sunday 12th November Hoddesdon town centre has always prided itself on the turnout for our remembrance parade and service with an average of 2,000 people attending and preparations for this year are well under-

way. Love Hoddesdon has also taken on the role of organising the Poppy Appeal for our town to help the Royal British Legion until they can find a replacement organiser.

Hoddesdon Loves Christmas Saturday 25th November This is our biggest event of the year and, in conjunction with Broxbourne Council, we will have a full day of celebration, stalls, a funfair and entertainment. The evening will start with the Christmas parade through the town centre at 4.45pm. This will be followed by a special performance by the Jersey Boys (sponsored by Nonna’s Kitchen) then the lights switch-on and firework display at 6pm.

New Year Street Fair Friday 29th December to Tuesday 2nd January This will run through the New Year period.

BID manager to go full-time Note from the BID manager, Claire Bayless “The time has come for me to give my full attention to Love Hoddesdon BID and, with this in mind, I will be starting full-time from the beginning of December, having previously worked three days per week since taking over earlier this year. I will be leaving my part-time role

as Community Champion in the Morrisons Hoddesdon store after 10 years but will be forever grateful for the opportunities and contacts it has given me. I look forward to working with the business in Hoddesdon town centre along with our voluntary members in 2024. My aim is to work closely with businesses making sure we can provide support and guidance and make Hoddesdon an exceptional place to work and shop.”

We will always find ways to help our businesses A message from our chair, Kevin Brooks “You only have to read the papers or watch the news to realise that life is very difficult for many at the moment and that applies to businesses as well as individuals. Nevertheless, there are still opportunities to be seized and Love Hoddesdon’s role is to help businesses do that.

“We obviously cannot tell people how to run their businesses, but we can provide help in a number of ways.

Prior to the pandemic we ran various training courses – free of charge to our members – and we are in the process of starting those again.

“We are also looking at ways of bringing more people into the town and our Events and Heritage committees are discussing how that can be done in new and varied ways. Ultimately, our role is to help Hoddesdon businesses be more successful and that, in turn, will help make our town more vibrant. Equally, if we can make our town more vibrant then that, in turn, will help make our businesses more successful!”

Come along to our next networking breakfast Our next networking breakfast will be on Thursday 16th November at the High Leigh Conference Centre. Attendance is free to both BID levy payers

and voluntary members, with a charge of £8 (including breakfast) for non-members. If you are interested in attending, please email lovehoddesdon@outlook.com.

SANTA’S GROTTO • SNOW GLOBE • FATHER CHRISTMAS PARADE AND FIREWORKS • STALLS • CATERING • FUN FAIR RIDES • ENTERTAINMENT THROUGHOUT THE DAY

For details, please call 01992 785655 or visit www.broxbourne.gov.uk 12 axis magazine

SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM BISHOP’S STORTFORD BID

Christmas 2023 in Bishop’s Stortford

The anticipation is building and the festive season is almost upon us!

Madeleine Lees from Bishop’s Stortford BID previews what’s on offer in the town this year BARRINGTONS

BISHOP’S STORTFORD TOWN COUNCIL

A Festive Fun Day will begin celebrations before a Christmas Fayre and Barringtons’ Jingle Bell Sleigh. There will be a Christmas tree in Market Square

Shopping and gifting

Our businesses and retailers have lots on offer this Christmas. Explore the different parts of town, check out gift ideas and support the high street.

Stuck for a present? Pick up a Discover Stortford gift card, available from Tourist Information and online and accepted by 40+ businesses. For more details, visit discoverstortford.co.uk/ gift-card.

Don’t forget the Click and Collect services available in Bishop’s Stortford, including Waitrose (John Lewis), Marks and Spencer, Next, Sainsbury’s and Ruby Room.

Northgate End is convenient for parking with over 500 spaces.

All-day parking is available.

BID Christmas launch event

There’s a whole host of festivities planned in Bishop’s Stortford this Christmas, kicking off with our Festive Fun Day on Sunday 19th November, from 12-4pm.

Soak up the atmosphere and get into the Christmas spirit! There will be fun and entertainment for all the family, including performances from local groups in Market Square, free face painting in Florence Walk, hot roasted chestnuts in South Street, cheeky elves, giveaways and Cinderella turning on the tree lights. discoverstortford.co.uk/events More festive season ideas

There’s so much going on in Bishop’s Stortford in the run-up to Christmas. Here’s a flavour of what else is on offer: Storytime with Mrs Claus on Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th November in Jackson Square Community Space. jacksonsquareshopping.co.uk Christmas Fayre on Saturday 2nd December, 9.30am-4.30pm, organised by Bishop’s Stortford Town Council, with a funfair, Santa’s Grotto, performances,

specialist stalls and food and drink traders. bishopsstortfordtc.gov.uk/events Lights of Love remembrance service on Sunday 3rd December at 4pm in Market Square with Herts & Soul Choir and refreshments afterwards. isabelhospice.org.uk/lightsoflove

An ice rink is coming to Bishop’s Stortford – from Thursday 28th to Saturday 30th December in Charringtons car park! Look out for details. discoverstortford.co.uk

Barringtons’ Jingle Bell Sleigh in support of Isabel Hospice on Friday 8th December from 5-7pm. For details, including the route and stop off points, go to @barringtonsfuneraldirectors on Facebook or Instagram.

Santa’s Grotto from Saturday 9th to Sunday 24th December at South Mill Arts. southmillarts.co.uk Cinderella, the most loved of all pantomimes, is running at South Mill Arts from Saturday 8th December. To book, visit southmillarts.co.uk.

An ice rink will be coming to Charringtons car park

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

@StortfordBID

@DiscoverStortford

www.discoverstortford.co.uk axis magazine 13

ou C r n om e e di w b & sp a se la th e ys ro om

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SHOPPING & BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM DOBSONS

Book your free place now for Christmas cookery event hosted by Dobsons and Neff Dreaming of new appliances to cook the perfect Christmas dinner on? Or looking for some top tips on how to use your existing Neff appliances?

Then join Dobsons’ free live Neff cookery event on Saturday 18th November where one of Neff’s home economists will demonstrate how to make the perfect Christmas dinner.

Dobsons, which was established in 1935, has a large showroom in Cheshunt which features exclusively Stoneham hand-built kitchen furniture showcased in large room sets to give each one the feeling of a real kitchen.

At the event, a Neff home economist will provide a live cookery demonstration to show you how to make the most of your oven’s functions, including steam and combination cooking, as well

as demonstrate induction hob cooking and a variety of other Neff appliances.

The theme will be Christmas cookery with dishes such as roast turkey, Christmas cake and roulade featured.

There will also be tastings, recipes and Q&A sessions to answer any specific queries you might have.

At the end of your session, you can enjoy the food that the home economist has cooked for you.

If you are thinking about buying Neff, or have recently purchased Neff appliances and want to know how to get the most from them, then this is the perfect event for you.

The session will run from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

To book a place please email enquiries@dobsonshome.com.

A Neff home economist will offer tips on cooking fabulous festive fare

Places must be booked in advance as numbers are limited.

Car parking is available on site at the Turners Hill showroom.

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

Join our

Christmas Cookery Morning Saturday 18th Novem ber See our website for more details

Visit our inspirational showroom and start your journey to a beautiful home

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LET’S MAKE IT A LOCAL XMAS Support your local businesses throughout the festive season this year!

CRATES OF WOOL WARE

CHAPTER 79 HERTFORD

MARK WINES ANTIQUES HERTFORD

Crates of Wool is a lovely, local, bricksand-mortar yarn store in the heart of Ware that offers superb personal service. It is a treasure chest of yarns of all kinds: natural fibres, locally dyed yarn, standard acrylic, baby yarns and more, as well as all you need to go with them. They also host a range of workshops in knitting, crochet, and macrame. The shop is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4.30pm.

Crates of Wool also offers a mail order service – you can order online or by phone.

For the last 17 years, Chapter 79 have been designing and making bespoke jewellery, specialising in custom engagement and wedding rings. From their on-site workshop in the heart of Hertford, they can repair and restore almost any of your treasured pieces. They also supply beautiful rings and other jewellery from some of the finest jewellery houses in Europe, such as Furrer-Jacot, and stock the most current and unique pieces from Chlobo, San, Quinn, Hot Diamonds and many more.

Mark Wines has been established in the antiques trade for over 30 years and offers a varied selection of antique 18th and 19th century furniture from his shop in Hertford’s historic St Andrew Street. Items bought and sold vary from Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian pedestal desks, chests of drawers, coffers, boxes, bureaus, and tables to antique longcase, mantle, wall and carriage clocks, writing slopes, silver, glassware, copper and brass, trivets, fenders and candlesticks.

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1 St Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1HZ 01992 534522 / 07970 480031 info@markwinesantiques.co.uk

LANDSEER PICTURE FRAMING WARE

CANNON TRAVEL HODDESDON

POST & PACKING HERTFORD

Landseer Picture Framing in Ware can frame all your memorabilia from medals, badges, rosettes, programmes and tickets to sports shirts for adults or children. And, of course, they can frame any of your photos and artwork.

The shop also sells handmade earthenware and stoneware sculptures produced by local artists, as well as a wide selection of framed prints and many ready-made standard sized photo frames.

Cannon Travel offers a wealth of knowledge, expertise and advice to help you find the right holiday. Formed in 1991 and based in Hoddesdon, Cannon Travel has considerable experience and only works with fully ABTA bonded and ATOL protected operators.

Whatever you are looking for, you can book it with Cannon, including dream holidays, exotic tours, luxury cruises, city breaks and coach holidays. You will always get fantastic independent advice and benefit from invaluable expertise.

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 Evri, 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.

27b Baldock Street, Ware SG12 9DH 01920 486522 landseerpictureframes.co.uk

96 High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8HD 01992 441521 cannontravel.co.uk

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

16 axis magazine

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLBEING NEWS

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM PELLE AESTHETICS

Pelle Aesthetics offers medically-led treatments for your skin Pelle Aesthetics is a Hertfordbased clinic led by Dr Sabrina Valentino that specialises in providing discreet and bespoke services to those looking to enhance the health of their skin, prevent the effects of ageing and find solutions to common skin problems.

Dr Sabrina, the founder of Pelle Aesthetics brings over a decade of medical experience and is a qualified GP. She holds memberships in the General Medical Council, the Royal College of GPs and is an associate member of CMAC (Complications in Medical Aesthetics Collaborative). She has recently decided to step away from her GP career to focus on providing skin wellness and anti-ageing treatments and has moved across Hertford from Castle Street to smart new premises at The Townhouse in Fore Street.

Treatments available

Dr Sabrina provides medical-grade skincare services alongside injectables such as anti-wrinkle injections, skinboosters, Profhilo, dermal fillers for volume loss and facial sculpting and medical microneedling.

Her approach is that “less is more”, and she likes to focus on improving the overall health of your skin to minimise the amount of injectables so that patients continue to look like themselves with full expression – but with healthier, more radiant and youthful skin. She has carefully selected her treatment menu to include only treatments which

are shown to be clinically proven and safe; more recently taking an interest in regenerative options which cause rejuvenation by utilising the body’s own ability to create collagen and elastin, giving revitalising results.

The Cutera Secret Pro

Dr Sabrina has invested in one of the industry’s most cutting edge technologies, the Cutera Secret Pro, becoming the first clinic in Hertfordshire to offer it.

This skin revitalisation treatment uniquely combines two proven technologies – fractional CO2 lasering and radio-frequency microneedling – to safely and effectively treat all layers of the skin. It is ideal for revitalising skin affected by scars, wrinkles and stretch marks while enhancing skin tone, improving pigment and texture.

Arrange your consultation

If you’re ready to work with Dr Sabrina you can arrange a 30-minute consultation appointment with no commitment to treatment. You pay a £50 deposit which is redeemable against your treatment.

At this meeting, Dr Sabrina will listen, discuss your options and recommend the most appropriate treatments. Clinic days are Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, when she also works from her satellite clinic at Cucumber Fields wellness centre in Essendon.

For an appointment, email drsabrina@pelleaesthetics.com, call 07487 319688 or visit pelleaesthetics.com.

Start today, for the skin you'll love tomorrow The Townhouse, 114-116 Fore Street, Hertford @pelleaesthetics

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axis magazine 17

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLBEING NEWS

New treatments launched at Blush Face and Body Hertford-based beauty salon Blush Face and Body has launched two new sets of treatments.

The first of these is Cryopen therapy, which enables the painless removal of any kind of skin imperfection with minimal fuss.

This revolutionary therapy can treat skin tags, age spots, moles, warts, veruccas and pigmentation marks and it does so by literally freezing the imperfections off, eventually leaving you with fresh, clear skin.

Each treatment only takes a few seconds and the procedure is quick, safe and effective, eliminating the need for any type of surgery or anaesthetic. It is also one of the least invasive treatments of its type available.

Clinical data has shown that the results are permanent after one or two treatments.

Blush is also now offering treatments and products from a new ethical UK skincare brand, Slow Ageing Essentials.

The brand has been created by beauty industry pioneer David Lieber and his wife Margot, who is a yoga teacher, natural chef and student of naturopathic nutrition.

Slow Ageing Essentials was born from a lifelong passion for pure essential oils, natural botanicals and their combined effects on slowing the skin’s ageing process.

They believe in using the very best

Arlene Armstrong (pictured above right) opened her beauty salon almost 20 years ago and is still innovating

sustainably sourced natural ingredients, crafted to create the most effective formulations that work on all ages, genders and skin types that are kind to the planet as well as to the skin.

They have eight core products, including a face moisturiser, face wash, face balm, bath and shower essence and gentle cleanser, which are used in the Slow Ageing Facial that Blush is now offering.

This deeply relaxing facial increases skin oxygenation for a healthy glow; detoxifies skin for increased brightness; exercises facial muscles to improve tone and relaxes the mind.

Blush Face and Body, which is run by owner Arlene Armstrong, opened in Hertford’s historic St Andrew Street in 2004, so is now rapidly approaching its 20th anniversary.

Arlene and her team offer a wide range of contemporary therapies for you to choose from, including skincare, bodycare, hair removal, eyebrow, eyelash and nail treatments, make-up and massage.

Blush is also currently selling Christmas gift sets and gift vouchers.

You can find out more about all their treatments, and book online, at blushfaceandbody.co.uk.

Blush Face and Body 17 & 19 St Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1HZ 01992 558878 blushfaceandbody.co.uk

Dobsons’ pamper evening raises almost £2,000 for Helping Herts charity A Pamper and Prosecco evening in which women attending enjoyed beauty treatments and other activities has raised almost £2,000 for the Helping Herts charity.

Kitchen and bathroom business Dobsons organised and held the event, in September, at its showroom in Cheshunt.

The showroom was transformed for the evening into a salon and shopping boutique and the event was supported by several female-run local businesses, including Mint of Hertford, Potter’s Pinkies, Centrepiece Cakes by Kerry and Anna Figgins.

Those attending enjoyed beauty 18 axis magazine

treatments, cupcake decorating classes and tarot readings.

The event raised £1,903.50 which will benefit the 12 children’s charities that Helping Herts currently supports.

Dobsons’ director Helen Dobson, who organised the evening, said: “We were delighted with the success of the event and the fantastic turnout it attracted. Most importantly, we are thrilled to have raised so much money for the charity and we would like to thank everyone who attended and all the ladies who contributed and displayed their products on the night.”

Helen Dobson (second right) and colleagues present their cheque

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axis magazine 19

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PROPERTY NEWS

Navigation House apartments at Lea Wharf released for rental With just a handful of the first release of properties at Chase New Homes’ Lea Wharf development in Hertford left to be sold, the housebuilder has announced that the 44 homes in a second block, Navigation House, are to be offered for rental.

If you’re interested in one though you’ll need to get in quick with sales and marketing director Paul Bennett reporting a “staggering” response to the announcement with 12 apartments let within just eight days of the announcement in mid-October.

The soon-to-be-completed Lea Wharf development sits on the site formerly occupied by Bircherley Green shopping centre.

It’s in the heart of the town with easy access to local shops, bars and restaurants yet also on the riverside as well as close to the open spaces of Hartham Common which can be seen from the upper floors of the development.

The decision to offer properties at Navigation House for let comes at a time of increasing demand for rental properties in the south east.

It follows the setting up of new rental property company Chase Living six months ago which has already been successful in letting 226 apartments in another Chase development One One

Six in Cockfosters. Gary Barton, managing director of Chase New Homes, said: “It has been exciting to see how strong the appetite for high-quality, professionally managed rental homes has been at One One Six. We are thrilled to now be making stylish, contemporary homes available to renters in Lea Wharf as well.”

The 44 one and two bedroom riverside rental apartments at Navigation House feature a high-end specification including designer fitted kitchens and contemporary flooring. Some have private balconies, there are lifts to all floors and allocated parking is available with a number of apartments.

Chase Living says that as well as exemplary properties, renters at Navigation House can expect a management service that keeps the development in exceptional condition.

To find out more about renting at Lea Wharf, contact agents Steven Oates on 01992 303300 or email hertford@stevenoates.com.

At the time that Axis went to press there were just seven apartments remaining for private sale in the first block, Charter House. For information on private sales contact agent Lanes Exclusive Homes on 01992 940955 or leawharf@ lanesexclusivehomes.co.uk.

Bellway set to launch ‘premium’ King George’s Vale in Cuffley Bellway North London is about to launch a new 121-home premium development in Cuffley.

King George’s Vale will feature a range of high-end two, three, four and five-bedroom houses on a 12-acre site off Northaw Road East, to the north of King George V playing field.

Ali Maruf, managing director of Bellway North London, said the high-quality homes would offer residents “a luxurious rural lifestyle within walking distance of village amenities and Cuffley station”.

The five-bedroom properties, for example, will feature spacious accommodation over three floors with three of the five bedrooms having their own en-suite facilities.

Downstairs, these homes will include a study, living room, utility room and open plan kitchendining room with doors to the garden.

Sustainable features across the development will include Google Nest smart thermostats, electric vehicle charging points and solar panels.

As part of the planning agreement with Welwyn-Hatfield Council, Bellway has agreed to contribute funding of £2.2million towards local services, including significant amounts to education, healthcare, highways and sports facilities.

Areas of open space will be provided throughout the development, while existing trees and hedgerows will be retained wherever possible

Homes at King George’s Vale are due to go on sale shortly

and the main street through the development will be lined by trees on both sides.

The first homes at King George’s Vale are due to go on sale this autumn with the first properties set

to be completed and handed over to their owners next year.

For more information about the development, visit bellway.co.uk or call the sales team on 01707 524334. axis magazine 21

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WHAT’S ON

THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO VISIT

Town centres prepare for Christmas lights switch-on events Hertford’s gala and market

Hertford kicks off its celebrations with its annual Christmas Gala event on Friday 24th November, when the town centre will be filled with festive and food stalls, live music and performances. The Christmas lights will be switched on from a stage in Salisbury Square at 6pm.

The grounds of Hertford Castle also host a Christmas Market from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th November, which will be open 3.30pm to 8pm on Friday, from 11am to 6pm on Saturday and from 11am to 5pm on Sunday.

Hoddesdon Loves Christmas

Hoddesdon Loves Christmas on Saturday 25th November features a whole day of fun and celebrations in advance of the lights switch-on and Christmas parade of floats through the town centre.

The High Street is filled with stalls and there is live entertainment on stage throughout the day. The parade begins at 4.45pm and is followed by a live performance from the Jersey Boys, the lights switch-on and a fireworks display at 6pm.

Highlights from 2022: Bishop’s Stortford’s Christmas fayre; Liberty X’s Michelle Heaton switches on the Hoddesdon lights and thousands throng the streets of Ware for the ever-popular Dickensian Evening

Ware’s Dickensian Evening

Ware’s famous Dickensian Evening takes place on Friday 1st December from 6.30pm, with local roads being closed from 6pm to allow for the festivities which see thousands of people on the streets shopping, mingling and eating and drinking. There are stalls galore and entertainment – and the shops stay open late too.

Christmas in Bishop’s Stortford

In Bishop’s Stortford the town’s BID organises a festive fun day on Sunday 19th November from 12-4pm in the town centre, culminating in the switching-on of the lights on the Christmas tree in Market Square. Then, on Saturday 2nd December, the Bishop’s Stortford Christmas Fayre is held from 9.30am to 4.30pm, with a

funfair, Santa’s Grotto and stalls throughout the town centre.

Christmas lights switch-on and fayre in Sawbridgeworth

A Christmas fayre with stalls, a trampoline and fairground rides launches Christmas in Sawbridgeworth’s Bell Street on Saturday 25th November from 3pm with the lights switched on at 6pm.

Where to see the best fireworks displays this year Ware’s annual fireworks display is on Saturday 4th November at the corner of High Oak Road and Kingsway. Gates open at 5.30pm, the bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm and the fireworks display will begin at 7pm. On the night prices are £10 for adults, £5 for children under 12 and £25 for a family. warefireworks.org.uk

Enfield Town Park in Cecil Road, Enfield hosts an evening of fireworks and fun on Saturday 4th November from 5pm to 9pm. The event includes a live brass band, fire dancers and food stalls.

Tickets are £12.50 for adults, £8.25 for children aged 6-16, £3.25 for under-5s. dugdaleartscentre.co.uk

Bishop’s Stortford Rugby Club at Silverleys holds its display on Saturday 4th November from 5pm (fireworks at 7pm). Tickets must be booked online and are £19.25 for a family of four, additional adult £7, additional child £4.50. bsrfctickets.co.uk

Harlow Council’s annual fireworks display takes place on Sunday 5th November and is free to attend. The bonfire will be lit at 6.15pm and the fireworks are at 6.30pm. It is held at the Showground in Harlow Town Park. harlow.gov.uk

The display at Harlow Town Park last year

axis magazine 23

November events @

The Illegal Eagles Thursday 9 November, 7.30pm All seats £33.50

The Elvis Years

The Story of The King

Saturday 11 November, 7.30pm

Jongleurs Comedy Night Thursday 23 November, 8pm All tickets £15

Standard £27, Friends of The Spotlight £24.70

All seats £25 (4 for 3 offer £75) Friends of the Spotlight £23

thespotlightvenue.com 01992 441946 (Monday-Friday 10am-2pm)

The D-Day Darlings Christmas Special (Matinee)

Wednesday 29 November, 2.30pm All seats £22. Friends of the Spotlight £20

AUTHENTIC STONE BAKED

Italian Pizza

Doors and bar open 1 hour prior to event start.

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Buddy Holly & The Cricketers Sunday 26 November, 7.30pm

Why not enjoy a relaxing pre-show drink and a slice of our delicious...

The Spotlight, High Street, Hoddesdon, Herts, EN11 8BE

A Traditional Family Pantomime

Musical Director Aron Sood Choreographer Emma Rogers

Written & Directed

by Marc Day

Supported by Love Hoddesdon

Don’t miss out on seeing this festive feast for all the family!

Tickets from £18 Box Office: 01992 441946 | thespotlightvenue.com The Spotlight, High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE

24 axis magazine

WHAT’S ON

It’s nearly Christmas, so it must be time for panto...!

The heroes are getting ready and the Dames are putting on their make-up, which must mean it is time to book your panto tickets for the festive season!

Here is a quick guide to what’s on where at our major local venues this year…

Cinderella The Spotlight, Hoddesdon

The Spotlight’s production of the all-time great panto tale of Cinders, her Prince and the ugly sisters runs from Tuesday 12th through to Saturday 30th December this year. Tickets start at £18 and can be booked at thespotlightvenue.com or by calling 01992 441946.

Beauty and the Beast Harlow Playhouse

The Playhouse’s panto is always a spectacular one and this year’s offering of Beauty and the Beast is no different. Running from Fri-

day 1st December until Sunday 7th January, tickets start from £15 and can booked online at harlowplayhouse.co.uk or through the box office on 01279 431945.

Snow White Wyllyotts Theatre

Snow White, that enchanting panto story, comes to Potters Bar’s Wyllyotts Theatre from Friday 15th to Sunday 31st December. Ticket prices start at £16.50 and you can book your seats now at wyllyottstheatre. co.uk or on 01707 645005.

Cinderella South Mill Arts

Cinderella is also being staged at South Mill Arts in Bishop’s Stortford, from Saturday 9th December until Tuesday 2nd January.

Tickets are from £23.50 and can be booked at southmillarts.co.uk or by calling 01279 710200.

Getting into character at The Spotlight, Wyllyotts and Harlow Playhouse

Our pick of the arts and concerts Present Arts

Present Arts at The Gallery at Parndon Mill in Harlow perfectly combines gift buying with art.

The exhibition features affordable artwork including paintings, ceramics, prints, jewellery and cards by a variety of artists that make ideal presents. It runs from Thursday 9th November until Saturday 23rd December. Visit parndonmill.co.uk for opening times. Admission is free.

Ware Musical Theatre

Ware Musical Theatre presents It’s Showtime!, a cabaret event featuring jazzy numbers from 42nd Street, Chicago and Porgy and Bess. Performances take place at Ware Drill Hall in Amwell End SG12 9HP on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th November at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinée at 2.30pm. Tickets are £20 (evenings), £18 (afternoon) including food. Book at waremusicaltheatre.org.uk.

Broxbourne Community Choir

Broxbourne Community Choir

Present Arts is at Parndon Mill

present It’s Beginning to Sound a Lot Like Christmas, with Christmas carols and festive songs, at Christ Church, New Road, Ware SG12 7BS on Saturday 2nd December at 3pm. Admission is £10 for adults, £3 for children.

Tickets available from Gabby on 07875 221543.

Ware Choral Society

Ware Choral Society present A Starry Night, an evening of Christmas music, at The Drill Hall in Amwell End, Ware SG12 9HP at 7.30pm on Saturday 2nd December. Tickets £15 from warechoral.org.uk or on the door. axis magazine 25

WHAT’S ON

Book now for Hatfield Park’s Christmas Revels Hatfield Park has announced its new Christmas experience for the festive season…. Fantastical Christmas Revels hosted by Queen Elizabeth I, a unique visitor experience influenced by the rich Tudor history and heritage of Hatfield Park.

The event will run from Thursday 30th November to Sunday 31st December (but will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day).

Visitors will be able to experience Queen Elizabeth I’s reign as they step back in time through a series of meticulously crafted installations that pay homage to the Tudor period, an age of regality and wonder.

Highlights include a life size Tudor carriage adorned with intricate details; mummers performing traditional plays; live

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music from Tudor musicians; a banquet table laden with lavish decorations; the Christmas Kissing Bough adorned with holly, ivy and, of course, mistletoe; and the grand finale – a towering, imposing figure of Queen

Elizabeth I herself.

Tickets are £28 for adults, £14 for children aged 5-15; £72 for a family of up to two adults and four children.

To book your tickets, visit hatfield-house.co.uk.

Santa is coming to Paradise Wildlife Park Book your tickets now to see Santa at Paradise Wildlife Park during December. Father Christmas will be in situ at the zoo in Broxbourne every weekend from Saturday 2nd December and then every day from Wednesday 20th until Sunday 24th December. Entry to Santa’s Grotto is included in your day ticket. Book now at pwpark.com.

Films: The best new movies to see this month Trolls Band Together (U) Now showing

Poppy discovers that Branch was once part of the boy band BroZone with his brothers Floyd, John Dory, Spruce and Clay. When Floyd is kidnapped, Branch and Poppy embark on a journey to reunite his brothers and rescue Floyd from something worse than pop-culture obscurity.

The Marvels (TBC) Out on Friday 10th November

Captain Marvel, aka Carol Danvers, teams up with Ms Marvel and SABER to save the universe.

Because one Marvel is clearly not enough.

26 axis magazine

Teens Unite Santa Dash

Dream Scenario (TBC) Out on Friday 10th November

Hapless family man Paul Matthews (Nicolas Cage) finds his life turned upside down when millions of strangers start seeing him in their dreams.

Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (12A)

Out on Friday 17th November A prequel to the Hunger Games, this is the story of a young Coriolanus Snow.

AUTHOR REBECCA WAIT AT HERTFORD LIBRARY

Hertford Library is hosting its first Winter Reads promotional event on Thursday 9th November at 7pm when Rebecca Wait, the author of one of 2022’s hottest books, I’m Sorry You Feel That Way, is visiting. Rebecca will be interviewed about the inspiration behind her comic and affecting drama. Tickets are £7 from the library in Dolphin Yard, Maidenhead Street on 01992 531992.

BIRDER MIKE ILETT TO TALK AT RSPB GROUP

Top Herts birder Mike Ilett is giving a talk, entitled Birds of Hertfordshire – 10 Years On, to the RSPB’s SE Herts Group on Tuesday 28th November at the United Reformed Church Hall in Mill Lane, Broxbourne. The talk records the changes seen in birdlife in the county in the decade since he wrote his book Birds of Hertfordshire. Doors open 7.30pm for an 8pm start. £4 members, £5 non-members.

URC BROXBOURNE MARKET

Wish (TBC) Out on Friday 24th November

Walt Disney introduces the magical kingdom of Rosas.

The charity Teens Unite, which supports young people overcoming cancer, is seeking entrants for its Santa Dash at Broxbourne Sports Club on Sunday 17th December. You can walk, jog or run the 5k route, and pushchairs and dogs are welcome. A free Santa suit is supplied for every entrant.

It starts at 10am and tickets are £11 for adults, £8 for children or £32 for a family (2+2). To sign up, visit teensunite.org.

Young Coriolanus in Hunger Games

The United Reformed Church in Broxbourne also hosts a market on Saturday 2nd December from 10am to 1.30pm, featuring crafts stalls, gifts, collectables, home baking and preserves, plus refreshments and light lunches.

Scan the QR code to book now

Experience the captivating allure of Queen Elizabeth I’s reign as we guide you through a journey of meticulously crafted installations that pay homage to the Tudor period. This exclusive Christmas event is designed to enchant, educate, and transport you to an age of regality and wonder.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT WWW.HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK/CHRISTMAS/

FOOD & DRINK

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS

No.5 Eat and Drink brings bistro-style dining to Hertford October saw the opening in Hertford of No.5 Eat and Drink.

Owned by David and Teresa Perrin, it is an intimate neighbourhood-style bistro offering food and drink to eat in or take away.

It has a handful of tables upstairs along with a window seat that’s the perfect spot to sit and watch the rest of the world peer enviously in on a cold day.

Downstairs, there are more tables in a cosy basement dining area.

The whole place can seat 24, or 26 at a push.

Open Monday to Saturday it offers breakfast from 8am to 11am – everything from a breakfast baguette with sausage and bacon or a ham and cheese croissant to assorted French pastries including croissants and pains au chocolat.

Lunch is offered from 11am to 3pm and features a selection of speciality sandwiches that currently include Pastrami with Emmental cheese, pickles and Dijon mustard and Brie with apple and honey; as well as Croques

Monsieur and Ratatouille.

There are several types of tea, (really good) coffee, matcha, chai and turmeric lattes as well as soft drinks and fruit juices.

On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays the doors re-open at 7pm through to 11.30pm with a supper menu of light bites – perfect fare to enjoy alongside a Belgian, French or German beer, or a glass (or bottle) of wine.

No.5 is fully licensed so you can just pop in for a drink but with classic bistro-style dishes including a French onion soup (£7.95); quiche (£6.95); baked Camembert served with a basket of bread, olives and pickles (£9.95); and cheese and meat boards (£9.95), we predict you’ll stay awhile.

To guarantee a table, especially if there are more than two of you, booking is advised.

No.5 Eat and Drink 5 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1HX 01992 500010 07703 692177

Camra publishes new guide to real ale pubs of Hertford and Ware The South Hertfordshire branch of Camra, the Campaign for Real Ale is urging people to support their local pubs with the publication of a new, free guide to the real ale pubs of Hertford and Ware.

In leaflet form, the guide, featuring Hertford on one side and Ware on the other, highlights 50 pubs in the two towns and nearby villages with a brief description of each that includes its opening times, details of the cask-conditioned beers available and, very usefully, bus routes that will get you close to the door!

The information was collected by local Camra surveyors in the spring and summer of this year.

It has been distributed to all of the featured pubs, to tourist of-

fices, museums and libraries and can also be found on Camra’s South Hertfordshire website.

Branch spokesman Les Middlewood said: “Many pubs are continuing to struggle under the difficult economic conditions that prevail. High taxation on alcohol, unfair VAT on pubs, the return of challenging business

rates, heavy price discounting by supermarkets and high energy costs are just some of the problems faced.

“Yet pubs hold an important place in our communities – a pint and conversation with friends, a place to celebrate and perhaps enjoy a meal. It’s still an appealing prospect.

“We must support our remaining pubs, too many have closed in recent years.

“We hope the guide will lend a hand and will encourage people to discover or re-discover what pubs can offer.”

Pictured on the left is a favourite of real ale drinkers in Hertford, The Old Cross Tavern in St Andrew Street, which the guide describes as “an excellent town free house offering a warm welcome with up to six real ales usually including a dark beer and a fine choice of Belgian bottle conditioned beers. No TV or music here, just good old fashioned conversation.”

You can find out more about the local Camra group at southherts.camra.org.uk. axis magazine 29

CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

Y N

OVEMB

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Curry night Every Wednesday throughout November Curry & Drink from £15.50

2 course meal

plus coffee & mince pies - £29.50

3 course meal

Weekday set menu 2 courses £12.95 3 courses £15.95 Tuesday to Friday lunch Tuesday to Thursday dinner Available until the end of November

plus coffee & mince pies - £34.50 £15 pp deposit required for bookings Are you planning a Christmas party or family get together?

Why not celebrate at The Golden Fleece?

Call 01920 823555 to book now.

THE GRANDISON, 18 BURY LANE, BRAMFIELD SG14 2QL

01992 554077

20 Green End, Braughing, Hertfordshire SG11 2PG Tel: 01920 823555 • www.goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk

The Golden Fleece - 92.5mm x 125mm Oct/Nov 2023 Axis Advert_Final.indd 1

info@grandisonpub.com • www.grandisonpub.com

26/09/2023 17:32

Book now for

Christmas

Our Christmas menu offers a great choice of dishes: 2 Courses £26.95 | 3 Courses £31.95 See website for full menu details Burnt Mill Lane, Harlow CM20 2QS 01279 424180 | www.dustymillerharlow.co.uk Free onsite parking 30 axis magazine

FOOD & DRINK

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM PIRCIO

Christmas at Pircio: a great venue for friends and family

If you are looking for a local restaurant for a Christmas gathering which puts family at the heart of everything it does, then book Pircio in Bishop’s Stortford.

This family-run restaurant is based in the town’s historic Drill Hall building.

It is an excellent place to go if you want to celebrate: beautifully designed and cleverly thought out, so that you feel happy and at home here wherever you are seated. The owners have pulled off a difficult trick – making what is in reality a large, cavernous building seem much smaller and more intimate.

And it’s not just the stunning interior design that is welcoming – the staff here give fast, efficient service with a smile.

When it opened seven years ago, Pircio began with a bold and unusual strategy – that of running full and extensive menus from two cuisines side by side.

One side of the menu offered Italian food, the other side Turkish.

They still do it. And it not only works but it gives Pircio that point of difference that helps keep its regulars coming back time and again.

There are also different menus for lunch and dinner, there is a kids’

menu, a gluten-free menu, plus the drinks list and separate cocktail menu… this is truly a place where you are spoilt for choice, as well as just spoilt.

Christmas menus

Pircio’s Christmas menus have just been released – there are two available, both with a wide range of choices for starter, main and dessert.

Christmas Menu One offers three courses for £55 and Menu Two has three courses for £50 – both offer a reception drink for another £5.

The menus feature a selection of

both Italian and Turkish dishes which will be enough to offer something for everyone, from the classic chicken shish kebab to grilled salmon or the Pizze Pircio to a spicy prawns pot among the main courses for example.

You can see full details of both menus, as well as the a la carte menu which is also available throughout the festive period, online at pirciorestaurant.com.

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

~ MEDITERRANEAN GRILL ~

Choice of two Christmas menus at £50 or £55 per person for three courses –

Book now for a fabulous festive feast!

The Drill Hall, Market Square, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU

01279 898181 • pirciorestaurant.com

axis magazine 31

FOOD & DRINK

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM RONI’S

Roni’s: a very special restaurant with a quality all of its own Modern day Christmas is a special time, a time for family and friends, a time for looking after ourselves and those we love – and Roni’s is certainly one special restaurant that is made for the festive season.

Roni’s is a locally-owned independent fine dining restaurant in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford’s North Street, which has now been open for three years.

Its success is showing how the concept of fine dining can be adapted to our current times.

The food here is excellent. The surroundings are stylish without trying too hard to be overly opulent, the service is attentive and informed whilst still friendly, and the layout of the restaurant has left more than enough room between tables so you enjoy the buzz without overhearing every word of other conversations.

Roni’s unashamedly sets out to offer a memorable fine dining experience, one in which you will feel looked after and unrushed, yet one that is far from stuffy.

The menu, of modern European fare, is large enough to have something for everyone, with all dishes freshly cooked using local ingredients where possible.

The Christmas menu

While the a la carte menu remains available, diners can also choose from a Christmas menu offering three courses with a glass of Prosecco for £65.95.

Starters include honey roast pumpkin soup; parma ham halloumi; duck and orange pork liver paté and seared scallops.

Christmas main courses feature roast turkey and all the trimmings if you fancy a traditional option, as well as slow roast pork belly; Moroccan stew; chef’s special lobster linguine and a 30-day matured 10oz sirloin steak.

Christmas pudding with brandy butter heads the festive menu’s dessert list, but if you’re saving that one for Christmas Day itself you can still feast on sticky toffee pudding or panettone bread and butter pudding, which are among six tempting options.

Wine tasting sessions

Roni’s also has its own sommelier, Raffaele, a charismatic wine enthusiast who is happy to recommend wines with your meal. If you are seeking a unique pre-Christmas experience for family or friends, you could also book one of his wine tasting sessions, which take place in a private room and are for a minimum of six people. They can be booked any time from Tuesday to Thursday and each session lasts up to three hours. Raffaele has a lot to work with – Roni’s has an excellent and extensive wine list.

Private dining

The restaurant also has three private dining rooms upstairs – perfect for a private dinner party or small function, including the 12-seater Blue Room.

Roni’s 16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856 ronisrestaurant.co.uk

Make your Christmas extra special – BOOK OUR CHRISTMAS MENU NOW 3 courses plus a glass of Prosecco for

£65.95

16 NORTH STREET, BISHOP’S STORTFORD CM23 2LQ

01279 508856

32 axis magazine

FOOD & DRINK

The Three Horseshoes now part of Peach Pubs’ portfolio Peach, the pub company behind Brookmans in Brookmans Park, has acquired its third pub in Hertfordshire, The Three Horseshoes in Letchmore Heath, Radlett.

Established more than 20 years ago Peach has a collection of pubs throughout Bedfordshire, Oxfordshire, Surry and Warwickshire, each with its own character and style, and several with rooms.

In Hertfordshire it has successfully run both The White Horse in Harpenden and Brookmans since 2011, creating two stylish and characterful pubs that are at the heart of their communities.

Chris Stagg, brand operations director at Peach Pubs, said: “The Three Horseshoes is an absolutely gorgeous pub that occupies a special place in the village and is enjoyed by guests from across the county, and we are thrilled to say

it is now one of ours.

“We are known as being a collection of really great pubs, in market towns and villages in the heart of England, with two wonderful pubs already in Hertfordshire, that serve good quality, fresh, honest food and drink in relaxed, friendly surroundings.

We’ve been doing this successfully for over 22 years, winning a slew of awards for our food and drink, how we look after our people and take care of the environment.

“The Three Horseshoes shares many of the same characteristics we have and it is quite simply a natural fit with our ethos and approach. Recently extensively and sympathetically restored, it has a warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly faces serving great quality seasonal food and drink in the bar, eatery and garden, and that will continue to be the same

under Peach.”

The Three Horseshoes offers food all day every day including roasts on Sundays, along with real ales, quality wines and cocktails.

To find out more and view menus including special Christmas menus visit makinglifepeachy.com.

The Three Horsehoses is in The Green, Letchmore Heath, Radlett WD25 8ER. Call 01923 856700 to book.

Ritchie’s wine notes

By Ritchie Tough of Cavavin

Winter Warmers: Some great wines that are perfect for colder evenings As the nights get longer, and we dig out our comfortable jumpers and sit in front of an open fire, here are some wines that are just great for when the temperature drops – and some recommendations of what to enjoy them with.

What all these grapes have in common is they are full bodied with lots of depth and structure, which I just love over the winter period.

VILLA CASETTA BAROLO, ITALY, 2012, £32 This is a full-bodied, rich structured garnet/ruby-coloured wine offering an emerging bouquet of rose petals, cherries, leather, spice box and tobacco.

Food Pairings: Risotto, charcuterie, winter squash, mushrooms, truffles, fancy silverware and food cooked in quenelles.

Cavavin is your local, independent wine shop.

Find it at 22 Maidenhead Street, Hertford SG14 1DR. Call 01992 558311 or visit cavavin.co.uk/hertford

THE STUMP JUMP SHIRAZ, D’ARENBERG, AUSTRALIA, 2018, £13.90 Deep ruby colour. On the nose, the wine is full of cherry and blackberry fruits. The palate is fresh and juicy, with intense ripe

red fruits, flowers and black pepper. A finish sharpened by mineral and graphite.

Food Pairings: Grilled red meats and venison.

CHATEAU DE MAUVES GRAVES, BORDEAUX, FRANCE, 2016, £16.50 Dark cherry, plum, smoke, graphite and game are all fused together with a rounded balance. The palate is mediumbodied with a firm, slightly dry tannin but with plenty of Graves-like character coming through on the cool and classic finish.

Food Pairings: Pepper steak, duck, goose.

AIRFIELD ESTATES OAKED CHARDONNAY, WASHINGTON STATE, USA, 2021, £24.50 Airfield Chardonnay evokes intriguing aromas of fresh pear, honeydew melon, butterscotch and smoked pecans. The wine enters the palate with a slightly creamy mouth feel.

Food Pairings: Chicken, turkey, sea bass, shellfish, cream sauce pasta.

axis magazine 33

FOOD & DRINK

The Atrium launches choice of festive dining options – from Christmas dinner to a small plates charity evening event Located just inside the main entrance of Hertford Regional College is a hidden gem of the local food and drink scene – The Atrium restaurant.

The Atrium is a training restaurant for students at the college, but one where they not only learn the skills required to work in hospitality but also cook and serve food to members of the public, just as if they were working in a commercial restaurant.

The Atrium is an AA College Rosette award-winning restaurant which uses a range of quality local produce and is a great place to meet for lunch or relax over dinner.

To be successful, The Atrium relies on local customers and groups and there are often incen-

tives offered for dining. In turn, by dining at The Atrium you are actively helping to shape the lives of the young students at Hertford Regional College.

During December the restaurant is transformed, with festive decorations and themes – this year the theme is Christmas Around the World.

The students have organised a range of festive events, beginning with a Christmas charity shopping evening on Thursday 23rd November in aid of Helping Herts. Gifts available to buy will include cosmetics, jewellery, personalised gifts and handmade Christmas cakes.

You will also be able to dine from a small plates menu with a mocktail, three plates and dessert

all included with the entry price for the evening, which is just £20.

Christmas dining options coming up include a three-course Christmas lunch, four-course Christmas dinner and a festive buffet on a series of dates, detailed in the advert below.

The menus are designed by the professional chef team and cooked, under supervision, by the cookery students. The front

of house team is led by manager Jo Higgs with her student team who are all studying food and beverage service skills or travel and tourism.

To book, send an email to atrium@hrc.ac.uk.

You can also find The Atrium on Tripadvisor, Facebook and Instagram.

Hertford Regional College is in High Road, Turnford EN10 6AE.

Enjoy Christmas at The Atrium The Atrium is an award-winning, student-led dining experience located just inside Hertford Regional College in Broxbourne

Our Christmas dining options: Christmas Charity Shopping Event & Festive Dining Small Plates Menu – £20pp Thursday 23rd November In aid of Helping Herts

Christmas Dinner – 6.45pm to 9.30pm – £28pp

Thursday 30th November, Thursday 7th December & Thursday 14th December 4 courses

Christmas 3-Course Lunch – 12pm to 2.15pm – £25pp

Tuesday 5th December, Thursday 7th December, Tuesday 12th December & Thursday 14th December

Christmas Buffet Lunch - 12pm to 2pm – £18pp Friday 1st December & Friday 15th December

Book your table now on 01992 411922 or email atrium@hrc.ac.uk 34 axis magazine

DINING OUT GUIDE

ADVERTISEMENT LISTINGS

THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining

BAAN THITIYA Thai

THE GOLDEN FLEECE Pub & Dining

Nestled in the picturesque village of Great Amwell, The George IV offers exceptional restaurant cuisine within a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Oliver and his team serve a menu of seasonal and fresh small and large sharing plates.

The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event. Whether it is an intimate wedding, baby shower, birthday or a special anniversary, there is a variety of dining options to suit any occasion in the private dining room and courtyard.

Baan Thitiya, Bishop’s Stortford’s premier Thai restaurant, is the perfect place for relaxed dining. Close to Bishop’s Stortford town centre, it has a beautiful garden and its own parking while, inside, the restaurant is decorated in a contemporary Thai style. The extensive menu features high quality food prepared by Thai chefs with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and authentic, natural flavours. It also has an excellent wine list. Baan Thitiya is open seven days for lunch and dinner. A warm welcome and great service await you.

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.

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

102 London Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3DS 01279 658575 www.baan-thitiya.com

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

SHISHBOURNE Turkish

THE DUSTY MILLER Country pub

RONI’S Fine Dining

Shishbourne is a Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant on Broxbourne High Road which is open seven days a week and offers a full menu throughout the day from 12noon until closing.

It has a plush and luxurious look with an unforgettable Instagrammable interior, combined with great cocktails and an a la carte menu filled with Turkish classics. It also offers a bottomless dinner option from 6pm Monday to Thursday and a two-course lunch menu from 12-3.30pm Monday to Friday. There is live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings too.

The Dusty Miller is a country pub and casual dining venue just outside Harlow, surrounded by countryside and close to the river. It serves freshly-cooked pub food, including a pie of the day and other pub classics, together with a good selection of gluten-free and vegan dishes.

Thursday night is Steak Night with two steaks and a bottle of wine for £50. The Dusty Miller is open from 12noon to 11pm Tuesday to Saturday and from 12noon to 6.30pm on Sunday when a traditional roast is available.

Christmas bookings are now being taken.

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 gluten-free and vegan menus. There is a set lunch menu as well as the main menu and superb roasts are served on Sundays. Social wine tastings can also be booked for groups of family or friends in the private dining room.

Roni’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon to 10pm, and closed on Monday.

27 High Road, Broxbourne EN10 7HX 01992 313198 www.shishbourne.co.uk

Burnt Mill Lane, Harlow CM20 2QS 01279 424180 www.dustymillerharlow.co.uk

16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856 www.ronisrestaurant.co.uk axis magazine 35

CELEBRATING

CH A

IN -

FR EE

9-13 Parliament Square n Hertford n SG14 1EX

EXPECT MORE n FROM YOUR n ESTATE AGENT

For Sale: Epping Green, Hertfordshire – offers in excess of £1,900,000

An elegant five bedroom Grade II listed residence boasting 4,779 sq ft of accommodation, modernised to a high standard throughout.

The house sits in a gated plot with triple garage, beautiful rear garden and separate courtyard.

For Sale: Digswell, Hertfordshire – offers in excess of £785,000

An extended four-bedroom family home in a sought after village.

Bright and modern with a flexible layout, family-friendly garden with a separate outbuilding, ideal for working from home or additional play room. Fast train links to London from Welwyn North station.

Please call for further information or to book an appointment on 01992 721321

01992 721 321 n www.thomas-childs.com