Axis September 2025 issue

The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally

September 2025

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE

FLAGS & PROTESTS

HOW THE ASYLUM ISSUE IS PLAYING OUT LOCALLY

ROXY MOVIES

NEW CINEMA SET TO OPEN IN STORTFORD

FREE SHOW TICKETS

VISIT THIS YEAR’S IDEAL HOME SHOW CHRISTMAS

MEET THE ARTISTS

OPEN STUDIOS EVENTS ACROSS HERTFORDSHIRE

WELL WORTH A TRIP THE COCK OPENS ITS DOORS IN HITCHIN

TALKING TO CHILDREN ABOUT A GRandparent’s DEMENTIA

By Laura-Jane Hughes Communications Manager, B&M Care

When a grandparent is diagnosed with dementia, it affects everyone, including the youngest members of the family. Even if children don’t fully understand what dementia means, they will often notice when something feels different. A grandparent might forget names, lose their place in conversation, or act in ways that seem unusual. For a child, these changes can be confusing.

For parents and carers, this creates an important but sometimes difficult task: how to talk to children about dementia in a way that is both honest and reassuring. Done well, these conversations can help children process their emotions and continue to enjoy a loving relationship with their grandparent.

Why Children Need Honest Conversations

Children are quick to notice changes in behaviour, and if no explanation is given, their imaginations may fill the gaps. Left in the dark, a child might believe they have done something wrong, or that the situation is far worse than it is. Talking openly about dementia helps them feel secure, respected, and included. Children usually cope well with the truth if it is explained gently. It can help to say that dementia is an illness that makes it harder for people to remember things, think clearly, or behave in the way they once did. What matters most is reassurance that their grandparent still loves them, even if they sometimes struggle to show it in familiar ways.

Helping Everyone Stay Connected

Even when memory fades, time spent with grandchildren can remain deeply meaningful. Looking at photo albums, singing songs, drawing, or simply sitting quietly together are all ways of creating positive moments.

If a grandparent lives in a care home, staff can help prepare children for visits and suggest age-appropriate activities that feel both engaging and comforting. These visits often spark happiness and sometimes even prompt memories.

The benefits of intergenerational interaction are significant. At B&M Care we welcome visits from the whole family, and we also partner with local schools, nurseries, and baby groups in our local communities. The joy shared between children and residents is invaluable for wellbeing on both sides.

How B&M Care Supports Families and Residents

The impact that a dementia diagnosis has on not just the individual, but their family and loved ones, can be overwhelming. That’s why at B&M Care we host free events for the public, including the Virtual Dementia Tour®, an immersive training experience that allows participants to step into the shoes of someone living with dementia. Alongside this, we run dementia awareness sessions and webinars to

give families the knowledge and confidence to understand the condition better and feel equipped to support their loved one, sharing our expertise.

As a family-run organisation with 50 years of experience, our ethos has always been “Let our family care for your family.” This principle guides everything we do, from creating warm, homely living spaces, to ensuring relatives feel welcome and involved. Families are encouraged to visit often, join in activities, and share in everyday life within our homes so that time together remains meaningful.

We have utilised our decades of experience to design homes with dementia in mind: our spaces are thoughtfully planned to reduce confusion, improve wayfinding and create a sense of calm. Our teams are trained in specialist dementia care so that residents receive personalised, compassionate support every day, and have access to a wide range of activities and events tailored to their preferences.

Continuing the Conversation

Talking to children about dementia may never feel easy, but with honesty, patience and encouragement, it can become a constructive and even comforting experience. By helping children understand what their grandparent is going through, families can preserve those special bonds and ensure that meaningful moments continue. For someone living with dementia, maintaining ties with younger generations can be a powerful way of boosting mood and stimulating memory.

At B&M Care, we are committed to providing support to both our residents and their loved ones. If you would like more information about our free events or our care homes, please visit our website.

Inside your September magazine...

05-12 y Briefing

Protesters on the streets outside Delta Marriott hotel in Cheshunt

33-39 y What’s on

The best events from Heritage Open Days to artists’ Open Studios

20-32 y Home improvements

Ware Shares, Ideal Home Show Christmas tickets & local specialists

40-43 y Food & drink

Why The Cock in Hitchin is a new gastropub worth a trip out for

14 & 15 y FROM PARLIAMENT: Our MPs write exclusive columns for you 42 & 43 y FOOD & DRINK GUIDE: Support your local restaurants

Front cover images (clockwise from top)

Stills from the new British indie movie Signs of Life, and the blockbuster Downton Abbey The Grand Finale, both opening this month in local cinemas (p38); Artwork by Andrew Keenleyside who is exhibiting as part of Herts Open Studios, and Parndon Mill in Harlow which is holding its own Open Studios event (p35); The Bell Hotel in Epping, focus of asylum hotel protests (p5&7).

ABOUT AXIS

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)

SUBSCRIBE

For £25 for six months or £45 per year we’ll send you 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

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To find out more about promoting your business with us please email advertising@axispublications.co.uk

Join us this September and October for taster events in art, culture, and creativity

– MOST ARE FREE!

From painting, creative writing, and sewing, to theatre workshops, upcycling, jewellery, candle-making, puppetry, blacksmithing, Halloween fun, and planetarium shows – THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

https://yourvoice.eastherts.gov.uk/arts-in-east-herts

BRIEFING

THE ASYLUM CRISIS: HOW IT’S PLAYING OUT ON OUR STREETS

Broxbourne vows legal action to halt the use of Delta Marriott hotel to house asylum seekers

As the nationwide asylum issue takes centre stage locally, Broxbourne Council says it intends to take enforcement action over the use of Cheshunt’s Delta Marriott hotel to house asylum seekers. The local authority first announced on Tuesday 19th August that it was taking legal advice, shortly after the High Court granted neighbouring Epping Forest District Council an interim injunction blocking asylum seekers from being accommodated at The Bell Hotel in Epping. For some ten days at least (the injunction was later to be overturned by the Court of Appeal) Epping’s success spurred local authorities across the country to consider their own options, Broxbourne being the first to announce it was doing so. It also sparked a renewed wave of public protests outside other asylum hotels – including at the Delta Marriott in Cheshunt over the August bank holiday weekend.

The Epping picture

The Bell hit the headlines in early July after an asylum seeker was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. Regular protests were held outside that on occasions became violent, meaning the hotel has remained in the headlines throughout the summer, becoming a symbol of the broader national immigration debate.

The Government, which has a legal duty to house asylum seekers while their cases are being decided, has said it intends to end the use of hotels to do so by the end of 2029. But in the meantime, local authorities, into whose areas the hotels fall, find themselves having to deal with any impact on their communities. Epping Forest Council, which had long argued that the hotel was not a suitable location to house asylum

seekers, achieved the outcome it was looking for on planning grounds, arguing that the hotel’s owner Somani Hotels did not have planning permission for what amounted to a material change of use of the building. It applied to the High Court for an injunction restraining the use of The Bell, and an interim injunction to the same effect until the main case could be heard. The latter was granted with the effect that asylum seekers were to be moved out of The Bell by 4pm on 12th September.

How Broxbourne reacted After news broke of Epping’s temporary injunction, Broxbourne Council was the first of many across the country to say it would now take legal advice as a matter of urgency on taking similar action.

The Delta Marriott has been housing asylum seekers since the end of 2022. This meant, like The Bell, the hotel has not been open to paying guests from the local and wider community – with its bedrooms, dining, function and wedding facilities closed to the public.

The council said it had opposed the use of the hotel for this purpose from the outset but was advised that action was unlikely to be successful at that time.

Council leader Cllr Corina Gander said: “The placement of asylum seekers at the Delta Marriott hotel is inappropriate.

“The Delta Marriott should be used for its intended purpose as a hotel. Its ongoing use as asylum seeker accommodation adds pressure to local services and risks heightening community tensions.

“We will consider all legal options to prevent this and continue to press for a long-term solution that works for our residents.”

She said she was also writing to the

Home Office seeking an assurance that no asylum seekers from The Bell Hotel in Epping will be moved to Cheshunt. Later, on Thursday 28th August, the council issued a second statement saying that it intended to take enforcement action.

What happened next

Just a day later the Court of Appeal set aside the temporary injunction that would have led to the 138 resident asylum seekers leaving The Bell.

Epping Forest District Council’s

application for a permanent injunction will still be heard in October but Lord Justice Bean said that the High Court judge had made a number of errors in principle. These included the fact that: “The judge’s approach ignores the obvious consequence that the closure of one site means capacity needs to be identified elsewhere in the system.” He also said the judge should not have given as much weight to protests taking place outside the hotel, as this could incentivise “further lawlessness”.

FLAGS & PROTESTS: TURN OVER TO PAGE 7

Police officers move to contain protesters in Cheshunt on Friday 29th August

The Bell Hotel in Epping Broxbourne leader Cllr Corina Gander

Police out in force as two sets of protesters face off outside hotel housing asylum seekers

On the night that the Court of Appeal’s judgment was announced around 250 protesters gathered outside the Delta Marriott hotel in Cheshunt.

Opposite them, on the other side of the road, around 100 counter protesters under the banner of Stand Up To Racism also gathered.

Chants on repeat of “Save our kids!”, “Stop the boats!”, “Send them home!” and “Kier Starmer is a w*****!” competed with “We are black, white, Muslim and we’re Jews!” and “Say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here!”

While the evening passed without major incident this was not least down to some diligent policing. There were a number of occasions when some protesters attempted to march along the road outside of the designated protest areas.

At one point, some tried to enter the car park area of the hotel. A number of flares were lit and eggs thrown. Police also used their vans to close off the nearby roundabout while they ensured the situation remained under control. Both groups left peacefully although some shouts of “See you at Epping” were audible.

Along with much of the country, Hertfordshire has seen flags appearing on buildings, lampposts and roundabouts in almost every town and village.

While some say they’re nothing more than acts of patriotism, amid the asylum hotels tensions others say they are a political statement against immigrants that could leave some residents feeling intimidated.

The past few weeks have seen Union Jacks and St George’s flags raised on the streets of Bishop’s Stortford, Harlow, Hertford and Ware.

In Sawbridgeworth a flag of St George was painted on the mini roundabout where London Road and Station Road meet while in Hoddesdon town centre persons unknown with a clearly more substantial stash of red paint have painted the zebra crossing and junction markings close to the clocktower.

Flying the flag: National symbols begin to appear everywhere from lampposts to zebra crossings

Flags fly in Harlow, while road markings and a zebra crossing were painted with the St George’s cross in Hoddesdon

Council admits teething problems as complaints roll in about new bin and recycling collections roll-out

Things can only get better as the saying goes – a sentiment no doubt being expressed at East Herts Council following a not entirely smooth roll-out of its new waste and recycling service last month. The changes, which came into effect from 4th August and which are designed to meet new Government recycling requirements, have seen the introduction of a new weekly food waste collection plus other waste needing to be divided into three ‘streams’, each of which is now stored in a separate wheelie bin and collected on a three weekly cycle.

For households with a brown garden waste bin there is another fortnightly collection. Throw in the fact that for some households the collection day has changed, not to mention an August bank holiday, and there was always the potential for some confusion. And the council, aware that households not putting the correct bin out on collection day could ultimately end up with six weeks’ worth of waste awaiting collection, had been trailing the changes for months. But while for many households the change came and went smoothly, others failed to receive their new bins by the start date of the new regime, leading to the council’s switchboard and social media being deluged with complaints.

There were also widespread reports that brown food caddies had arrived broken and were generally of poor quality, and of missed collections.

East Herts operates a shared waste and recycling service with North Herts Council and there were similar complaints there. Both local authorities posted messages on their websites warning of the high levels of calls being received.

What East Herts has said

When asked by Axis, East Herts Council didn’t comment on how many households had reported problems or how satisfied it was with the roll-out of the new regime.

But the council’s executive member for environmental sustainability, Cllr Tim Hoskin, confirmed he would be providing an update to the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 16th September with a full report to follow later in the year.

Thanking households for getting to grips with the new system, he offered an insight into the scale of the work required to get the new system up and running saying: “The new bin deliveries were organised by our waste contractor, as part of the mobilisation of new services and commenced well before the start

More street lights to be switched off at night

More than 1,000 streetlights across the county that Hertfordshire County Council has identified as having been on the wrong setting – staying on all night when they shouldn’t have been – will now be turned off. The 1,293 street lamps wrongly on ‘full night light’ setting span all areas of the county with the exception of St Albans and City District where no incorrect settings were found.

date for the new approach.

“They worked with the only company that completes bin deliveries for the UK to deliver this service; it has been a mammoth task with over 300,000 container deliveries taking place.

“Due to the varying needs of residents, some streets have had staggered deliveries, for example residents who required additional capacity have had a separate delivery to those who had a standard bin delivery.

“We are aware a minority of residents did not get all the containers they needed ahead of the service starting and our team have been out across the district inspecting areas and are continuing to work on rectifying any remaining issues.

“As with all new services and route changes, we are working with our contractor to iron out any teething issues, including any missed collections. We would encourage residents to report these to us via the website.”

He said that the brown food caddies are the same type that North Herts residents have been successfully using for several years.

The council, along with many others across the country, have operated a part night lighting policy for more than a decade now with streetlights serving key locations such as junctions, traffic calming features and other safety critical areas left on throughout the night. Other areas are part night lit meaning they switch off for part of the night typically between 1am and 5am. The council has not provided details of when the changes, which will be carried out through a simple reprogramming process, will take place other than to say the transition is planned for summer/autumn 2025. The changes are being made on county council maintained roads as well as some private roads with public rights of way.

By ensuring all street lights align with the council’s street lighting policy, it said there would be a saving of some 8.6 tonnes of carbon and £14,000 in energy costs each year.

A relatively small number of lights affected are in Bishop’s Stortford and Hertford with the vast majority within the Axis coverage area falling within the borough of Broxbourne, and in particular around Hoddesdon – in streets including Geddings Road, West Hill Road and College Road.

The new bins roll-out has been fine for some, not so good for others

Cllr Tim Hoskin

Private Chapels of Rest

STEVENAGE • 01438 316623

HITCHIN • 01462 438422

KNEBWORTH • 01438 812365

BUNTINGFORD • 01763 274111

WELWYN GARDEN CITY • 01707 390018

WELWYN • 01438 714686

HERTFORD • 01992 582052

WARE • 01920 468551

LETCHWORTH • 01462 684292

HODDESDON • 01992 471709

HARWOOD PARK • 01438 812515

HARPENDEN • 01582 762570

New cinema set to open in Bishop’s Stortford this month

Bishop’s Stortford is to have its own cinema once again – potentially as early as this month – after independent company Roxy Movies announced plans to re-open the former Empire Cinema building in Anchor Street.

The town has been without a cinema since the Empire’s parent company went into administration two years ago and Bishop’s Stortford was one of six of its venues to close with immediate effect. Since then, local residents have had to travel to Cineworld at Harlow or Braintree to see first release films. Roxy Movies is set to bring these back to the town while also promising showings of classic films and the hosting of film-inspired events.

The Bishop’s Stortford cinema will be the eighth for the company and comes hot on the heels of the opening of a new cinema in Middlesbrough in July.

Director Alejandro Whyatt, whose family has a long history within the cinema business, said he and fellow director Ruchira Pathirana hoped

to get the doors open at Bishop’s Stortford as soon as possible. While there are longer term plans to stamp their own aesthetic on the building over time, he said the premises, having been shuttered so suddenly, were in good shape. “It was almost like the place was in a time capsule!” he said. And despite the demise of Empire as a whole he said trading figures he

had seen for Bishop’s Stortford suggested it had been performing well. You can keep up to date with the opening news at roxymovies.co.uk and on Facebook (Roxy Movies Bishop’s Stortford).

There’s a hope that it might even be in time for the release of this month’s blockbuster Downton Abbey The Grand Finale which comes out in mid-September!

It’s all change at the new-look Ware Lido

The much anticipated new changing village at Ware Priory Lido has opened – further increasing the attraction of what is now a hugely popular year-round local facility. The area includes individual cubicles and family changing rooms as well as accessible changing spaces and toilets.

There are new and improved hot and powerful showers, new hairdryers and a swimsuit dryer to spin the water out of swimming costumes and trunks before you take them home.

A new air handling system has been installed to improve air quality and new lockers are also in place – you’ll just need to bring your own padlock or buy one from the reception. The low season timetable beginning on 1st September is now online –find it and book at warepriorylido. co.uk. Cold water season (when the new showers will no doubt be hugely appreciated!) runs from Thursday 2nd October to Sunday April 26th 2026.

Ware Priory Lido is in Priory Street, Ware SG12 0DE.

Sawbridgeworth Town Council faces electoral shake-up

Changes set to be introduced by the time of the next town council elections in 2027 will see

Sawbridgeworth Town Council divided into four wards.

At the current time councillors are elected on a whole-town basis, a situation mirrored in Buntingford which will also be changed.

But this is unusual, with the norm nationally being that smaller areas or ‘wards’ will vote, depending on the size of population, for one or more named councillors to represent them on the town or parish council. East Herts District Council has recently undertaken what is known as a Community Governance Review looking at the parish arrangements within the district.

The town council area will now be divided into four wards: South ward with five councillors, Spellbrook ward with one councillor, Central ward with two councillors and West ward with four councillors.

Planning service to ‘return to normal’

East Herts Council says it expects the time it takes to register planning applications from homeowners and developers to return to normal in the autumn after a period over the summer when it was without a single working member of permanent staff in its validation team.

It currently takes up to 20 working days for applications to be registered, rather between three and ten days normally.

A council spokesperson said: “We’re working hard to clear the backlog that built up when the validation team was short staffed with support from colleagues in the wider planning service,” adding that new staff have now been recruited.

The former Empire cinema is being taken over by independent Roxy Movies

East Herts confirms chief exec appointment

East Herts Council has announced that Helen Standen, its interim chief executive since late 2024, has been appointed to the role permanently. The recruitment process to find a new chief executive following the resignation of Richard Cassidy last September began in June of this year with a final decision made at a meeting of the full council on Wednesday 20th August.

East Herts said Helen brings a wealth of experience and deep understanding of the district, having joined the council in 2016 as a corporate director.

Her extensive career in public service also includes over eight years at East Sussex County Council as head of children’s centres, leadership roles at Wealden District Council in IT and customer services, and time spent as a principal advisor to the government of St Helena.

East Herts Council leader Cllr Ben Crystall said: “Helen was the successful candidate amongst a very strong field. She is an exceptional

local government officer with a deep commitment to public service and to East Herts in particular. We are very much looking forward to working together as we continue to deliver on our priorities and make East Herts an even better place to live and work.”

Helen said: “It has been a privilege to lead the organisation on an inter-

im basis, and I’m excited to continue working closely with the leader, councillors, and our dedicated team of directors and staff.

“Together we will rise to the challenges ahead and remain firmly focused on delivering high-quality services during this time of significant change and opportunity for local government.”

Hertford Town Council achieves gold award

Hertford Town Council has achieved the highest level of recognition from the National Association of Local Councils.

In August the local authority announced that it had achieved a gold award in the association’s Local Council Award Scheme. The status demonstrates the council is at the forefront of best practice and achieves excellence in governance, community leadership and council development.

Hertford barber Dave brings Perrin’s back to town

After nearly two years running the popular No.5 Eat & Drink in Hertford’s Old Cross, owner Dave Perrin took the decision during the summer to change direction and return to what he has done previously, reopening the premises as Perrin’s Barber Shop.

Dave originally set up Perrin’s in Buntingford in 1999 before moving to his prominent Old Cross address in Hertford in 2002, going on to establish his traditional barber shop as one of the county town’s longest-running businesses.

In 2023 he decided to convert the building to No.5 Eat and Drink, creating a coffee shop by day, bistro by night experience that offered something a little different to other coffee shops in town.

However, Dave readily admits that the long hours took their toll on him and his family and so he decided, with a heavy heart, to call time on the venture. He said: “We didn’t know it would take over our lives in such a way and that we would have no time for family and friends.

The past two years have been 24/7 and anyone who has a family will understand that family comes first.”

And so, Perrin’s has returned! As a traditional barbers, you don’t have to book, just turn up and wait your turn. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

Perrin’s Barber Shop

5 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1HX 01992 500010

Ware-based Kitty & Rose launches Mix and Match gift sets

Ware-based online retailer Kitty & Rose has launched a new Mix and Match collection which allows customers to curate a bespoke gift box from a hand-picked selection of quality goods, providing a unique and thoughtful gift for any occasion. Owned and run from her home by Helen Murtagh, Kitty & Rose is a small, independent business dedicated to bringing style and comfort to customers’ homes through a selection of home décor products, stylish accessories and gifts, all with a focus on quality, design and understated elegance.

These include candles, ceramic pots, photo frames, vases, eye pillows, socks, soap, shower gift sets, planners and notebooks. Helen has introduced the new Mix and Match service in direct response to a growing demand for more personalised and meaningful gifts. Customers can now select three or four items from a curated range to create a unique gift box tailored to the recipient’s personal taste and interests.

To see the full range, and find out more about the business, visit kittyandrose.co.uk.

Josh Dean MP

YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD WRITES FOR AXIS MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH

How I have been engaging with our community during the summer Parliamentary recess

From hosting inspiring young people to holding roundtable meetings over SEND provision, I have been busy working with local residents

Connecting locally during recess

Parliamentary recess has given me the chance to spend more time engaging with residents across Hertford and Stortford.

It’s been inspiring to meet young people from our community and hear their ideas for driving positive change.

These experiences help shape what I focus on in Parliament and remind me how important it is to make sure local voices are heard.

Westminster Insight Day for Young People

One of my recent highlights was hosting my first Westminster Insight Day for 12 young people from our constituency.

The day began with a guided tour of Parliament, followed by a Q&A session where they asked thoughtful questions about the role of an MP. For many, it was their first time visiting Parliament, and it was great to see their enthusiasm and engagement with local and national issues. They also met members of my team, who shared their career journeys and insights into working in politics. I hope the students left with an idea of what they might want to do in their careers, and advice on how to get there.

I’m looking forward to running more sessions like this to help young people find their voice and feel confident about their future.

Driving SEND reform together

Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) have long been let down by an underfunded system.

After years of struggle under the previous government, Labour is committed to change.

We’ve restructured the Department for Education, invested £1 billion in high needs budgets, and launched Best Start Family Hubs to support families.

As someone raised by a SENDCO and recently diagnosed with ADHD, I know how vital the right support is.

I’m dedicated to ensuring every child has access to the tools and environment they need to thrive.

That’s why I invited parents, carers and educators to join local roundtable discussions ahead of the Government’s further SEND reform later this year.

These sessions were a chance to speak openly about what’s working, what’s not, and how we can build a more inclusive and supportive system together.

Meet Josh at his constituency surgeries

To book an appointment, please email josh.dean.mp@parliament.uk with your full name, postal address including postcode, a contact number and as much detail about your case(s) as possible.

Josh welcomed 12 young people from his contituency to Westminster for Insight Day and has continued to engage with constituents during recess

Lewis Cocking MP

Why university should not be the only route for our school-leavers to take to succeed in today’s world

As schools return this month, and just weeks after pupils in Year 11 and Year 13 received their results, I have found myself thinking back to when I was deciding what to do after secondary school.

I left school in an era where it was simply expected that you would go on to university. And that’s what I did – but it wasn’t the right route for me.

On the job training, with the promise of a full-time job at the end of it, is a fantastic way for so many young people to kickstart their careers.

I’m proud of the work taking place in my constituency as part of this: Hertford Regional College in Turnford offers a wide range of post-16 professional and technical programmes and apprenticeships. And I’m pleased that, from September 2025, three schools in Broxbourne will offer T-Level pathways. But there is still more to do, and as businesses increasingly turn to artificial intelligence, the system must adapt.

Too many students are embarking on low quality university courses, with little prospect of finding good employment opportunities relating to their degree when they graduate. Industries from hospitality to the trades are rightly calling for greater flexibility in the delivery of apprenticeships and more freedom in the way the apprenticeship levy can be spent, enabling more employers to offer better opportuni-

ties for young people.

I want to see wider changes to the education system too, so that it’s geared much more towards preparing students for the modern working world. We should be thinking outside the box to help students learn the curriculum in far more practical and creative ways. Connecting successful local business owners with schools, so they can

share their experience and get pupils thinking about how they would scale up their own ideas, would help pupils develop Maths and English skills without even thinking about it.

How to grow the economy

The Government claims to want growth – but in their first year in office, their decisions to raise tax on

Meet Lewis at his constituency surgeries

I continue to hold regular in-person surgeries to discuss issues and concerns with constituents. If you have a problem you’d like to raise with me, please contact my office at lewis.cocking.mp@parliament.uk or on 01992 845335 In addition, if you own a business or are involved in a local organisation and you would like me to come and visit, then please let me know!

employers and increase regulation haven’t matched their words. To really achieve a faster growing economy, we need to have a laser focus on developing the next generation of entrepreneurs, who will create new jobs and invest in their communities. As Parliament returns from its summer break, that’s the message I’ll be sending to those in charge.

Lewis pictured outside his old secondary school, John Warner in Hoddesdon

How to sell your home in

Navigating the property market during an economic downturn can be challenging, but with the right strategies, selling your home is still achievable. Here’s how to make your property stand out and attract buyers, even when the market seems sluggish:

Price It Right: Setting the correct price is crucial. Overpricing can deter potential buyers, while underpricing might lead to financial loss. Conduct a thorough market analysis to determine a competitive price that aligns with current economic conditions.

Maximise Kerb Appeal: First impressions count, especially in a buyer’s market. Enhance your home’s exterior by maintaining the garden, painting the fence and ensuring the entrance is inviting. These small improvements can significantly affect a buyer’s perception.

Focus on Home Improvements: Address minor repairs and make cost-effective upgrades. Simple actions like fresh paint, fixing leaky taps and ensuring all lights work can increase your home’s appeal.

Stage Your Home: Staging helps potential buyers imagine themselves living in your space. A wellstaged home appears more inviting and can make rooms look larger and brighter.

Be Flexible and Patient: Flexibility with showings and negotiations is essential. Be prepared for lower offers and longer negotiation periods. Patience is key, as sales processes may take longer than usual.

Highlight the Positives: Emphasise your home’s unique selling points, whether it’s the location, recent upgrades or energy efficiency. Ensure these are highlighted in your marketing efforts. Effective Marketing: Use various marketing channels to reach potential buyers. Online listings, social media, virtual tours and professional photography can enhance your property’s visibility.

Consider All Offers: Be open to considering all offers. While you shouldn’t accept a lowball offer, being open to negotiation can lead to a successful sale.

Work with Experienced Professionals: Partner with a real estate agent experienced in downturn markets. At Peter Cuffaro Estate Agents, our expertise and market knowledge can provide valuable insights and advice.

Selling in a downturn requires a strategic approach, focusing on pricing, presentation, and patience. By understanding market conditions and adjusting your strategy, you can successfully sell your home. Remember, every market has its buyers – it’s about finding the right one for your home.

SageWard Lettings prepares to mark a major milestone this year

This December marks a major milestone for SageWard Lettings – 15 years since opening its doors in 2010.

Founded by Director Lisa Ward, SageWard began as a one-woman operation driven by a clear mission: to do lettings differently.

After gaining experience in various letting and property management companies, Lisa saw an opportunity to raise the standard, so she set out to create a company with a lettings-only focus, built around dedication to landlords, tenants and their properties.

Fast forward to today and SageWard has grown to a six-strong team, with more than 200 fully-managed properties and continues to go from strength to strength.

The company has earned multiple accolades, including:

l Best Letting Agent in Hertfordshire (ESTAS Awards, multiple years); and

l Best Letting Agent in Hertford (British Property Awards, four years running).

What sets SageWard apart?

It’s their unwavering commitment to treating

every landlord and every property – whether one flat or an entire portfolio – with the same high level of care.

Their priority is to to protect the landlord’s investment and ensure full compliance with ever-changing lettings legislation.

With significant changes on the horizon for rental law, SageWard is already prepared and their systems are in place to support landlords and help them stay compliant with the latest legal requirements.

What do SageWard offer?

The rental market remains strong, with demand for quality properties continuing to outpace supply.

To celebrate their 15th year, SageWard is offering a special promotion for new landlords:

Two months free management fee (on a fully managed service based on 9% plus Vat of the monthly rental)

This is SageWard’s way of proving their value – by showing you first hand how professional, transparent and effective lettings should be.

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF SAGEWARD LETTINGS

Whether you’re:

l Acquiring your first buy-to-let;

l An accidental landlord or have inherited property;

l Unhappy with your current agent; or

l Tired of self-managing and ready to hand it over to experts... SageWard is ready to help. Get in touch for expert advice or to discuss your needs: 01992 504058 info@sageward.co.uk sageward.co.uk

Offering a one off exclusive thank you to new landlords who come on board with us for the remainder of 2025. 2 months free management fee (based on 9% plus vat)

WHY USE SAGEWARD LETTINGS?

• Multi-Award Winning agency, voted Best Hertford Agent for 4 consecutive years

•Property letting experts with extensive knowledge of the market

• Unbeatable customer service

• Competitive rates at 9% (plus vat) + a one off set up fee of £200.00 (plus vat)– Fully Managed

• Based in the heart of Hertford covering many surrounding towns and villages

• We’ve got you covered at all times especially with Compliance and the new proposed Renters' Rights Bill

Music festival Rock Around The Clock Tower brings thousands to Hoddesdon town centre

Hoddesdon town centre came alive for a hugely successful Rock Around The Clock Tower event on Sunday 17th August.

Organised by Hoddesdon Allstars, and supported by Love Hoddesdon BID, the day-long music festival created an electrifying atmosphere that showcased all that’s good about Hoddesdon, with everyone from families and young children to seasoned music-lovers enjoying the day.

The free-to-attend festival attracted an estimated 6,500 people across the day to watch a series of bands play on the main stage in the High Street with further live performances at The White Swan and The Bell 1940s Tea Room.

There were also a range of family attractions including a ferris wheel and children’s funfair stalls, which were organised by Love Hoddesdon BID to make it even more of a family-friendly day out.

The town’s cafés, restaurants and takeaways reported one of their best trading days in recent times, while for those who wanted food on the go there was a good selection of street food caterers on hand as well.

The event raises money for the Great Ormond Street Hospital charity and Hoddesdon Allstars have reported that the total amount raised this year was a staggering £26,000.

A total of 22 Love Hoddesdon volunteers were involved carrying

out various duties over the weekend including promotional and road closure set-up, as well as clearing up during and after the event.

Love Hoddesdon BID’s Events and Promotions Chair Stephen Harris said: “A rocking big thank-you to all our volunteers who played their part in the success of Rock Around The Clock Tower. We could not have managed the event without them and their contribution is very, very much appreciated.”

Love Hoddesdon BID Manager Aaron Gransby added: “The feedback from businesses again showed that these crowd-pleasing events also play a vital role in helping to support so many of our local shops and eateries.”

Food & Drink Fest and Charter Fair Celebration are next events in town

Food and Drink Fest

The Love Hoddesdon Food & Drink Fest will be taking place on Saturday 13th September. This annual festival will feature dozens of food stands and vehicles on pitches across the town centre, offering everything from street food to cupcakes and more. Many event regulars from previous years are returning.

Charter Fair Celebration

The beginning of October will see a selection of fairground rides roll into town over the weekend of Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th October to celebrate the historic

charter that allows Hoddesdon to stage a fair.

Take part in Christmas Parade

This year’s Hoddesdon Loves Christmas event takes place on Sunday 30th November with the crowd-pleasing Father Christmas Parade beginning at 4.45pm for its tour through the town centre before the fireworks finale. Local groups and businesses are invited to enter a float or walking display into the procession. Anyone interested should contact the Events and Promotions Chair Stephen Harris on 07889 194090 or at stephenharris.sh52@gmail.com.

Stortford Rising: the hidden charms putting this market town on the map

With a wave of spirited independents breathing new life into the town, and joining the line-up of long-established family-run businesses, Bishop’s Stortford is increasingly becoming a destination for quality craftsmanship, global flavours and community spirit.

From interiors to indulgence, the town’s businesses are led by local people who bring passion, personality and precision to everything they do.

Pho-nomenal food arrives

No recent conversation about Bishop’s Stortford would be complete without mentioning Cyclo Pho & Vietnamese café, which opened its doors on Church Street to an eager crowd in June. Founded by local residents Annie and Ricky – she, Vietnamese, and he, from Hong Kong – their love for authentic cuisine and quality ingredients shines through in every bowl. Specialising in pho, Cyclo has already drawn food lovers from across the region. The vibe? Cosy and relaxed.

Out of this world cocktails

Astra Cocktail Bar is tucked away in Riverside Walk, just off South Street, and run by dynamic mother-and-daughter duo Louise and Georgia.

Small in size but vast in imagination, Astra dazzles with space-themed interiors, seasonal liqueurs (plum, at the time of writing), and a cocktail list that

marries innovation with timeless elegance.

Keep up to date

For town centre news, including new openings and events, follow @discoverstortford on Instagram and Facebook.

Any questions?

Email Madeleine Lees at mads@bishopsstortfordbid.co.uk

Craft, care and character: established favourites

F J Zelley

The town’s long-established, family-run enterprises have laid a strong foundation for the new kids on the block. From Barnes Flooring to Edwards Interiors, Fast Feet and F J Zelley the Jewellers to Albany Kitchens, these enduring local businesses have not only shaped the town’s commercial landscape but continue to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Heritage runs deep at F J Zelley in Market Square. This family-run workshop and jewellery emporium is now in its fourth generation, still serving customers with personal charm and skilled craftsmanship, with brothers Philip and Martin Zelley at the helm. From fine jewellery to welding, wristwatches to ear piercing, Zelley’s ethos is refreshingly sustainable: repair and recycle rather than replace. Step into the basement workshop and you’ll often find Martin, the craftsman behind the magic, hard at work in his “hap-

py place”. Upstairs, customers are welcomed like old friends by Philip, Martin and their team, including Julie the dog.

Albany Kitchens

Albany Kitchens on Hadham Road, founded in 1997, is the longest-running kitchen showroom in the town. This family-run business, consisting of skilled local tradespeople – Gary in cabinetry, Andy in the building trade and Luke in software design – offers more than just kitchen design. It delivers a fully managed, bespoke experience. Whether you’re after contemporary elegance or classic charm, Albany caters to all budgets. Their aftercare and longstanding relationships with local architects and developers have earned them a reputation that stretches far beyond Bishop’s Stortford. Visit their showroom for expert advice or to browse electrical brands, solid worktops and sinks and taps, as well as kitchen furniture.

Ware Shares offers chance to borrow tools cheaply for home improvements projects AUTUMN HOME

Local residents are being invited to sign up for an innovative new service that will enable you to borrow useful tools for home improvement projects.

The Ware Shares scheme, which is set to be launched on Monday 6th October by Ware Town Council, will be based at Wodson Park Sports and Leisure Centre in Wadesmill Road and is open to anyone from around the area who can reach the centre. Its aim is to help households save money by borrowing a tool for a small fee rather than having to buy it, in turn freeing up space in sheds and garages where so often items that are bought but later rarely used sit and gather dust! The initiative will also help in the fight against climate change by reducing waste and emissions from the manufacture and eventual disposal of tools that could instead be borrowed.

How it works

Borrowing an item couldn’t be easier – having signed up, you simply go online, find the item you’d like to borrow and reserve it for the date(s) of your choice. Items can be hired from £1.50. On the relevant day, head to the

sports centre where your item will be awaiting collection along with a simple user guide, in the special Ware Shares lockers to which you return it after the hire period. The lockers will be accessible seven days a week with varied opening hours including from

7am to 10pm from Monday through to Thursday. It’s not just tools that can be hired. As well as DIY products that include drills and jet washers there will be garden and leisure items such as hedge trimmers and even sewing machines.

How Ware Town Council and Library of Things made it happen

Ware Town Council has partnered with social enterprise Library of Things, which has been loaning items in neighbourhoods of London for the past decade, to bring the service to the area.

It’s the first of its kind outside the capital, and the tech that runs the Ware scheme will be provided by Library of Things with Ware Town Council purchasing the

‘Things’ and employing its own dedicated technician to ensure they are properly maintained.

Cllr Kirsty Taylor-Moran, pictured below left, has been instrumental in setting up Ware Shares. She said: “As a Green Party councillor it is so important that we help local residents fight climate change. Ware Shares will do just this while also saving money.

“As Green councillors we are so pleased that this project is now coming to fruition. It wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of local councillors and officers, including Ware Town Council’s hardworking Climate and Biodiversity Officer, who has managed this project in challenging circumstances so skilfully.”

Ware Shares is open to anybody in Ware and the surrounding areas who is able to collect and return at Wodson Park. There is a one-off membership fee of £5, with a current Earlybird offer reducing that to £1 when you reserve your first item. You can register now, ahead of the launch by visiting: wareshares.co.uk

Dobsons celebrates 90 years of excellence

Family-run business that was founded in Cheshunt in 1935 is still going strong today

2025 is a special year for Dobsons, as it marks the 90th anniversary of the Cheshuntbased family business.

The company was originally founded by Frank Dobson in 1935 as a general builders and joiners, with a dedicated joinery workshop on the Turners Hill site where the company remains to this day.

Frank was followed into the business by his son, also Frank, and during the early years Dobsons formed part of an emergency repair group carrying out repairs to many buildings damaged in London during World War II.

During the sixties and seventies, following the addition to the business of son Paul and grandson Nigel Dobson, Dobsons developed the business into shop fitting, fitting out many of the early local supermarkets and building societies.

The eighties saw the beginning of the transformation of Dobsons into the domestic home improvement company that it is today, with the appointment of grandson Tim Dobson in 1980. The following year saw the opening of the first showroom on the site, a window and door centre, which saw the company move away from timber joinery into the newly founded UPVC market.

Dobsons then continued to ex-

pand over the years into roofline and conservatories and in the early nineties Dobsons decided to venture into the interior home improvement market for the first time, adding fitted kitchens and bedrooms to their portfolio.

The noughties saw Dobsons further expand into bathrooms and most recently home renovations. During this time the fourth generation of family took over its management, with great –granddaughter Helen Dobson and fellow directors Matthew Rowlandson and Kevin Milne at the helm.

Diversification, service and quality the keys to success

Dobsons believe this diversification, along with their commitment to customer service and quality products, has been the key to their success over the years. They are constantly looking for ways to improve their business and ensure their Cheshunt showroom is always kept up to date with the latest trends.

Another factor in their success is their loyal and dedicated staff, most of who have been with the company for many years.

Dobsons specialise in carrying out high quality projects, individually designed and project managed from start to completion for a perfect seamless finish.

Book your place at Dobsons’ special 90th birthday celebration event on Saturday 27th September and take advantage of a range of great offers

To celebrate this special year Dobsons are holding a birthday celebration on Saturday 27th September, from 11am to 3pm at their Turners Hill showroom.

Events on the day include:

l Live Cooking from Neff & Siemens chef

l Cupcake decorating sessions by Signature Cakes by Selin

l Exclusive special offers available only to sales appointments booked on the day

l £100 Voucher off future orders for everyone attending

l Fantastic prize draw

l Chance to see the amazing new kitchen and bathroom displays

l Refreshments

l Free parking.

Dobsons would love it if you could join them for their celebrations whether you are a previous customer or looking to start a new home project. It’s a great opportunity to see their recently renovated showroom with brand new displays and shopfront.

For more details contact Dobsons on 01992 623066 or visit dobsonshome.com.

Dobsons staff at work through the years

The look of the team has changed a bit over time

Dobsons has remained at the heart of Cheshunt life down the decades

Where

to find the perfect fireplace for your

home

We may well still be enjoying the warm weather, but it won’t be long until autumn is upon us and we start thinking about indoor living and keeping cosy in front of a warm fireplace – whether a contemporary electric suite or a traditional stove.

The Hertfordshire Fireplace Gallery has been helping customers for 25 years with their fireplace needs, and have the most up-to-date modern designs encompassing the latest UK technology in fire realism.

Shown here is one of many stoves from the Newman Fireplaces range with a realistic natural effect beam giving a lovely bright and contemporary look.

FIREPLACES,

Visit their extensive showroom in Potters Bar to view the range plus their full eclectic display of contemporary and traditional surrounds, modern media walls, fires and stoves.

There are options to suit all budgets and tastes, and many ex-display fires are now up to 50% off.

Free local delivery is also available, plus a full installation service for peace of mind by their team of Gas Safe and HETAS engineers.

Hertfordshire Fireplace Gallery 9 Barnet Road, Potters Bar EN6 2QX 01707 657070 hertsfireplacegallery.co.uk

Picture Frames

When you are decorating your house it is the personal, finishing touches that really turn it into your home.

And putting your own stamp on the four walls that surround you is down to so much more than choosing the wallpaper or a paint colour.

Putting up prints or pictures or framing your treasured photographs or memorabilia really helps to show not only your own history and interests but also your true personality.

At the family-run Landseer Picture Frames in Ware they understand that, and have been offering a professional framing

service for years for pictures of all kinds as well as memorabilia ranging from medals and uniform badges to film posters, programmes and sports shirts. In addition to offering an expert framing service and advice, the shop also stocks a wide range of readymade frames and prints and an interesting selection of earthenware and stoneware sculptures that have been created by local artists.

Landseer Picture Frames 27b Baldock Street, Ware SG12 9DH 01920 486522 landseerpictureframes.com

At our Ware workshop and gallery we offer a professional framing service not just for canvases, prints and posters, but treasured memorabilia including medals, uniform badges, programmes and sports shirts We also stock a selection of ready-framed prints and handmade earthenware and stoneware sculptures made by local artists

The Ideal Home Show Christmas

250 pairs of free

tickets

for Axis readers as the ultimate festive shopping experience returns to Olympia London

The Ideal Home Show Christmas is back at Olympia London from Wednesday 26th to Sunday 30th November this year – and Axis magazine has 250 pairs of free tickets available for readers who book online.

Everyone wants their home to be at its best at Christmas time and the much-loved show is the ultimate seasonal destination for shopping, offering everything visitors need to make the festive period magical – from stylish interiors solutions to creative decorations, unique gifts and artisan food and drink.

Shopping opportunities

Shopping opportunities are divided into three curated sections:

Christmas Home – Stylish interiors and clever design ideas to transform your living spaces into a festive haven;

Christmas Decorations – From timeless classics to contemporary statement pieces, discover ornaments, lights and seasonal décor to transform every corner of the home.

Christmas Gifts – Thoughtful presents for everyone on the list including handmade items, stocking fillers and unique treasures not found on the high street.

Talks & demonstrations

In addition, there are festive themed talks, demonstrations and Q&As from celebrity guests and experts at the Christmas Theatre, plus free live demos from top chefs, foodie favourites and drinks experts at the Christmas Kitchen, with timetables for both now live online. There’s a programme of bookable creative workshops, Santa will be making appearances, and there will be a programme of entertainment at The Christmas Bandstand.

Plus, The Ideal Christmas Home, created in collaboration with leading home designer brands,

features beautifully styled rooms capturing the season’s trends with inspiring décor and shoppable looks, inviting visitors to take the essence of the show into their own homes.

Tickets

Tickets, which start from £14, include entry to the co-located Eat & Drink Festival Christmas, an indoor food festival with festive flavours and live demonstrations, and The Cake and Bake Show offering recipes, tips and seasonal treats. You can book tickets, using the offer code on the right, at idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk.

Ware’s own Donna Reeves among show’s experts

Joining the line-up of celebrities and experts at The Ideal Home Show Christmas this year will be Ware’s very own Donna Reeves.

The owner of & by Donna Reeves in Baldock Street will be on the live stage of the show’s Christmas Theatre at 11am on Sunday 30th November, showing the audience how to style a beautiful, eco-conscious Christmas table.

Using foraged greenery, fabric napkins, reclaimed copper and repurposed items, Donna

will share simple, sustainable ideas that add handmade charm to Christmas while reducing waste.

She will also be hosting two workshops that day leading participants in creating a copper foil dove Christmas decoration.

After graduating with a degree in art, a scholarship saw Donna studying in Ravenna, the Italian city renowned for its mosaics, after which she set up Donna Reeves Mosaics, designing and installing mosaics for interior design-

ers, public bodies and private clients worldwide.

She has written books, featured in interior design publications and appeared in a number of home improvement programmes.

She opened & by Donna Reeves in September 2023. It is an artists’ studio and shop selling a curated collection of art, fashion and homeware from selected local artists as well as creators and designers from across Europe, alongside her own handmade ceramics and mosaics.

Exclusive reader offer Axis has 250 pairs of free tickets available to be booked online – Quote: IHSXAXIS. Terms and conditions apply. When the free tickets have gone, Axis readers can use the same code to get any day tickets for £10 each.

T&Cs £10 tickets apply to 26-30 November. Children aged 0-15 go FREE on weekdays (2 children max per adult). Weekends: Children aged 6 and under go free. Children aged 7- 15 years old weekend ticket price £5. £1.70 transaction fee applies.

Visit the largest independent bed showroom in Herts & Essex

Looking for a perfect night’s sleep?

For over 45 years, our family-run business has been your go-to destination for beds and mattresses.

Whether you need a traditional pocket sprung mattress, the latest in foam technology, or even a customized size, we’ll help you find the perfect solution for a restful night.

We stock the leading brands like Relyon, Sealy, Dunlopillo, Rest Assured, Silentnight and Sleepeezee, ensuring you get the best quality and comfort.

Beyond Beds

Explore our extensive collection of home furnishings, from bedside tables and wardrobes to dining tables and sofas, featuring renowned brands including Tetrad.

Handy Location & Parking

We Make It Easy

At Deans we treat our customers like family. Our knowledgeable team will help you select the best furniture or mattress for your needs. Plus, our free delivery service is always to your room of choice and includes unwrapping, assembly and removal of packaging.

Recycling service for old furniture

Just off the A602 in Stonyhills with FREE PARKING on site

Convenient Opening 7 days a week inc bank holidays

Transform your home with Deans Furnishers

Experience the personal touch of an independent bed and furniture shop

Eight years ago, a devastating fire ravaged the historic Deans Furnishers, a family-run business that had been a cornerstone of Ware since 1976. Despite this setback, Dean, Olly and the team have persevered, relocating to a spacious showroom in Stonyhills, where their passion for furniture and dedication to quality service continues to thrive.

Experience personal service like never before

At Deans Furnishers, you’re not just a customer; you’re part of the family. This independent bed shop prides itself on offering personalised service that you simply won’t find in larger chains. When you walk through their doors, you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable staff who take the time to understand your needs, guiding you through an extensive selection of furniture and mattresses.

And it doesn’t end at the point of sale. If you purchase anything from Deans they will always deliver to the room of your choice, unpack, assemble and remove the old packaging all as part of the service.

Beds and Mattresses: Tailored to your comfort

Finding the perfect mattress is crucial for your wellbeing, and Deans Furnishers is committed to helping you achieve that. The team at Deans have over 100 years’ experience in the industry so you can be sure you will receive sound advice to ensure you get a good night’s sleep! They stock a wide range of beds and mattresses from leading brands such as Relyon, Sealy, Dunlopillo, Rest Assured, Silentnight and Sleepeezee. Whether you need a traditional pocket sprung, the latest foam technology, or a

customized size, Deans Furnishers has something for everyone. Their free delivery and set-up services ensure a hassle-free experience.

Furniture and upholstery: Crafted for your home

Beyond beds and mattresses, Deans Furnishers offers a rich variety of home furnishings. Their showroom features an impressive collection for the whole home. From elegant bedside tables and wardrobes to cosy sofas, each piece is carefully selected for quality and style. Their range includes top brands like Tetrad, ensuring you find the perfect addition to your home.

Sustainability and community

Deans Furnishers is not only dedicated to providing highquality furniture but also to sustainability. They offer

recycling services for your old mattress and furniture, helping you reduce waste and support a greener environment.

Visit Deans Furnishers: Where quality meets personal service

Located just off the A602 in Stonyhills, Deans Furnishers is easily accessible with ample free parking. The showroom is open seven days a week, including bank holidays, and their team is always ready to assist you in finding exactly what you need – check out their 5-star Google reviews!

Make a visit today and experience the difference that a dedicated, independent bed shop can make.

Deans Furnishers

Stonyhills, Ware SG12 0HJ 01920 468887 deansfurnishers.com

Shower, walk-in bath or wet room – which is right for you?

Choosing a new bathroom involves understanding your bathing needs but there are a variety of options to consider when deciding to alter your bathroom. One option is to replace your bath with a low-level shower –this is suited to those with limited mobility and who struggle to step into a traditional bath. Slip-resistant shower trays are available in various sizes, and accessories like shower seats mean you can relax and let the water wash over you.

Grab rails provide further safety and they come in a variety of modern designs, so they won’t make your bathroom feel clinical. However, if you prefer having a bath to a shower so you could consider a walk-in bath. These are available in various sizes and come with moulded seats (sometimes heated), quick fill and drain options and some even have jacuzzi functions to help ease aches and pains.

The third option is a wet room which eliminates obstacles with slip-resistant flooring and a central drain, making them ideal for wheelchair users and care-givers. However, they can be more costly.

It can be overwhelming knowing which solution to choose but AHM Installations have a friendly team of home surveyors who will visit you at home to discuss your bathing needs. They provide free quotations and visuals of how your new bathroom could look. AHM believe everyone should have access to safe, affordable bathing so they will always find a bathing solution to meet your needs and your budget. Call their customer care team on 01992 874391 to request a brochure or to find out more.

AHM Installations 01992 874391 ahminstallations.co.uk

Our qualified and friendly team can create a tailored solution for you.

• Specialists in accessible bathing.

• Free home visits and quotations.

• Full design and installation service.

• VAT free for those with a long-term illness or disability.

• Tailored solutions for arthritis, mobility issues and chronic pain.

• Bath out, shower in service in as little as two days.

• Walk-in baths, wetrooms, bidets and toilet lifters also available.

“AHM were professional, efficient and understanding all the way” Mrs Marion-Russell, November 2024

Discover your one stop shop for interiors and flooring

Fashion Flooring and Interiors is an independent retailer that specialises in all things interiors. Its shop in High Street, Bishop’s Stortford offers a wide choice of flooring including carpets, woods, laminates, luxury vinyl tiles and rugs. And on the first floor you can find curtains, blinds, wallpapers, lighting, accessories and much more. The business is run by partners Kathryn Hughes and Dave Orme, who care deeply about their customers.

They pride themselves on their dedication to their customers and the service they provide, always aiming to give the best experience possible.

Kathryn loves to chat to people so she can find them exactly what they want – even if they don’t know it themselves!

Dave is a bit less talkative, but he knows flooring inside out. He likes everything just right and always makes sure every little

detail has been thought about. Kathryn and Dave like to work with their customers, to make life as easy as possible for them by coordinating everything, so you don’t have to.

They can help with the whole process, from an initial conversation in the shop through to measuring up and having everything made, right through to installation. Using their own fitters, along with people they recommend, they can oversee a whole project if required. You are welcome to pop into the shop to browse – whether you are looking for a vase, rug or that finishing touch to a room, or would like an interior design service for your entire house. Kathryn and Dave are happy to help with as much, or as little, as you need.

And just round the corner, in Potter Street, is their second shop, which stocks even more lighting, accessories and gifts.

1-3 High Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LS 01279 651514

Fashion Flooring & Interiors

Project 4: Helping to realise your property’s potential

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.

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.

Stephen Widgery has produced an impressive portfolio of work throughout a 30-year career

Your dream garden, designed and built to perfection

Picture it: warm summer evenings in 2026, a glass of something cold in hand, surrounded by a garden that’s not just beautiful – but uniquely yours. That’s the magic Jardinia Landscapes brings to life.

Based near Ware, Jardinia is one of Hertfordshire’s leading garden design and build companies, trusted for imaginative design, flawless craftsmanship and exceptional customer care.

Whether you have a clear vision or simply know you want something special, their process is designed to turn your ideas into a stunning reality.

“Some clients arrive brimming with ideas, others come seeking inspiration,” says Kevin Hosier, Design Director.

“Either way, we explore every detail until we’ve uncovered exactly what they want from their outdoor space.”

Once the design is agreed, Construction Director William Carter

takes the plans and turns them into reality with precision, care, and an uncompromising eye for detail. “Whether we’re creating a compact courtyard or an expansive country garden, we approach every project with the same commitment to perfection,” he says. “Our goal is for clients to be delighted – not just satisfied.”

From your first free, no-obligation design consultation to the final flourish of planting, Jardinia ensures every stage is handled with professionalism and passion. It’s why their customers consistently describe them as “second to none” and why so many recommend them to friends and family.

If you’re ready to transform your garden for summer 2026, now is the time to start.

Jardinia Landscapes 07958 704261

info@jardinialandscapes.co.uk jardinia landscapes.co.uk

WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS CRAFTSMANSHIP TO CREATE YOUR PERFECT GARDEN

Ready to fall in love with your garden by summer 2026? At Jardinia Landscapes, we turn outdoor dreams into stunning realities.

• Your vision, beautifully realised – we design gardens that reflect your personality and bring your dreams to life.

• Perfection in every detail – from the first sketch to the final flower, nothing is overlooked.

• Spaces that inspire and delight – gardens you’ll love today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

We work with homeowners across Hertfordshire and neighbouring counties to create spaces that truly shine. Your first design consultation is completely free – and there’s absolutely no obligation.

Security systems can boost house prices by £25,000

In today’s property market, security is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Buyers are increasingly prioritising safety features, and research shows that a high-quality security system can add up to £25,000 to a home’s value. As crime rates fluctuate and awareness grows, demand for properties with robust security has surged. A modern system not only offers peace of mind but also makes homes more desirable. Estate agents confirm that properties with CCTV, smart alarms, door entry systems, and driveway bollards often sell faster and at a premium.

Smart technology is especially appealing. Buyers want integrated solutions that work with home automation, offering remote monitoring, motion alerts, and cloud-based CCTV storage. Many even insist on pre-installed systems when purchasing, making security a key factor in decision-making.

Insurers have also recognised the benefits. Homes with advanced security often enjoy lower premiums, helping homeowners quickly offset installation costs. This means investing in security doesn’t just increase property value, it saves money long-term. Developers and landlords are adapting too. With security now seen as essential, many are future-proofing properties by making systems standard alongside double glazing and central heating. This trend is only set to grow as technology advances. For homeowners, installing a security system is no longer just about protection, it’s a smart, strategic move. In a market where buyers demand more than aesthetics, safety has become both a dealmaker and a value booster.

Tindall Security 0800 433 7748 tindallsecurity.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

Heritage to the fore during month of September

This year’s nationwide Heritage Open Days festival takes place from Friday 12th to Sunday 21st September, with venues around the area covered by Axis opening their doors to the public. Locally, one of the main events will be Hertford Castle’s Heritage Day, held on Sunday 21st September between 12noon and 4pm. The annual event will see the castle lawn transformed to include a small settlement of interactive medieval encampments whilst there will also be a full programme of historical entertainment featuring games, archery and storytelling. Hertford Castle will be open for visitors to explore and there will be stalls including food and drink, crafts and charities. The event is sponsored by Powells funeral directors.

Hertford Town Council has also arranged a series of six themed and guided walks exploring the town this month. These are free and must be booked in advance through the Town and Tourist Information Centre – for details visit hertfordtownshop.co.uk.

About Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community-led festival of history and culture, involving thousands of local volunteers and organisations opening up buildings and putting on events to celebrate and highlight local culture and history.

If you visit the website heritageopendays.org.uk you can search by region, county and town for all the events happening in your chosen area. Other venues taking part locally include Hertfordshire Archives, Codicote Village Museum, Bishop’s Stortford Museum, Panshanger Park in Hertford, Place House in Ware, St Leonard’s Church in Bengeo and Churchgate in Cheshunt.

See behind the scenes

Hertford Museum opens its stores in The Wash, Hertford on Saturday 13th September for a tour offering a chance to find out about the scope of the museum’s vast collections. This is at 10.15am. Later, at 2.30pm at the museum itself in Bull Plain, curator Sara Taylor will give an illustrated talk about the museum and its collections. Tickets for each event are £8 and must be booked in advance. The price includes refreshments. Book through ticketsource.co.uk (search Hertford Museum).

New community boxing club opens its doors

What had been a centre of crime and exploitation has now been transformed into a safe, positive space for the community with the opening of a new community boxing and fitness hub in Bishop’s Stortford

The charity Strong Box, which is funded entirely by donations from its primary trustees, launched the facility at Twyford Business Centre on Wednesday 27th August, International Boxing Day. The refurbished industrial unit is now being put to a better use than it was previously – earlier this year police raided the premises to find victims of modern slavery and £500,000 of drugs in an illegal cannabis factory.

The new Strong Box features a fully equipped boxing development and fitness studio on the ground floor, with Strong Box ABC, an amateur boxing gym complete with competition size boxing ring, on the first floor. Sessions will be led by England Boxing-accredited coaches (volunteering their time), offering everything from fitness-focused classes to competitive amateur boxing. All ages and experience levels are welcome.

The chair of Strong Box trustees is Seb Scilly, a Bishop’s Stortford resident, who said: A growing Bishop’s Stortford deserves a central, bona fide, community boxing club. Our goal is to give young

people an outlet beyond their phones and the streets – boxing is a sport that transcends economic and cultural backgrounds,

chanelling energy in a positive direction.”

All classes can be booked via strongboxgym.co.uk.

Strong Box trustees Mark Mison, Sam Scilly, Seb Scilly and Robert Neal

Hertford Castle’s Heritage Day features medievel encampments

SEASON SUMMER

Art lovers set to enjoy Herts Open Studios

Herts Open Studios, which runs from Saturday 6th to Sunday 28th September, is the county’s annual event that celebrates the talent of Hertfordshire artists.

It returns for the 35th year, enabling artists and makers to open their studio doors, meet visitors, talk about and demonstrate their work and engage with an audience of art enthusiasts.

70 venues will be taking part, with 148 artists represented.

To find out who is exhibiting where, you can find a venue map online or collect a printed copy from Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Asda and Morrisons supermarkets across the county.

Full details are also available

online at the website of the event organisers, Herts Visual Arts, where you can view the venues, search by town or village or look on a map to see what’s on near you.

This year, for the first time, Hoddesdon will be represented at Open Studios, with a group of seven artists led by Herts Visual Arts’ local lead David Wye exhibiting under the name The Hoddesdon Collective at St Catherine and St Paul’s Church. Southern Maltings in Ware will host works by another group of local artists, Ware Creatives. Visit hvaf.org.uk for more information about the event and the artists taking part.

David Wye’s portraits will be showing as part of The Hoddesdon Collective in St Catherine and St Paul’s Church, while other local artists taking part in Herts Open Studios this year include Bengeo’s Jude O’Sullivan and Margaret Crutchley

Parndon Mill hosts Open Studios weekend

Parndon Mill, that hub of creativity across the county border in Harlow, will be holding its own Open Studios event on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September.

With some 40 artists and craftspeople now based at the mill in its 28 studios, this idyllic setting is the perfect place to gain a real insight into different creative processes.

The event offers visitors a chance to see everything from the fine arts of painting and sculpture to craftworks such as glassblowing, glass fusion, stained glass, textiles, calligraphy, stone letter carving, jewellery-making and printing.

The artists, designers and craftspeople will be available to talk about their work and there will be opportunities to ‘have a go’ yourself – including at glassblowing – as well.

Whilst there, visitors can view Parndon Mill’s Summer Exhibition at its on-site gallery, while there is also a showcase exhibition exclusively featuring Parndon Mill’s resident artists in its Project Space building. The event is open from 11am to 5pm both days at the venue which is down Parndon Mill Lane, off Elizabeth Way, Harlow CM20 2HP. Call 01279 426042 or visit parndonmill.co.uk for more.

Courtyard holds Open photography exhibition

Courtyard Arts in Hertford is hosting its first ever Photography Open exhibition and competition. The arts centre in Port Vale last month invited photographers to send in entries, which were due to be selected to feature in the exhibition that will be showing between Tuesday 2nd and Saturday 27th September.

Centre Director Laura Burns said: “We’re very excited to be launching our first ever Photography Open exhibition. Because we all carry highly sophisticated cameras with us on our smartphones, photography has become far more accessible to more people and this exhibition celebrates that.”

Courtyard Arts is at Port Vale, Hertford SG14 3AA, open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm.

The way to Sally’s garden by Nicola Court (View through Mill House) is showing at Parndon Mill’s Summer Exhibition

Hertford Music Club unveils its 85th season

Hertford Music Club is celebrating its 85th anniversary of bringing good music to the town with a programme of concerts for 2025-26 beginning this month. The club holds Sunday afternoon concerts at the Friends (Quaker) Meeting House in Hertford’s Railway Street, featuring both world renowned and local artists. Aspiring local artists that the club has given a stage to include soprano Natasha Page, who is now making her name on the international stage.

The full programme is as follows: Sunday 21st September: Jamie Cochrane, solo piano; Sunday 19th October: Dominic

Alldis Trio, mixing jazz and classical music; Sunday 16th November: Strahinja Mitrovic, double bass with piano accompaniment; Sunday 18th January 2026: She’Koyokh (back by popular demand) – music of central and eastern Europe; Sunday 15th February: Kianush Robeson, solo guitar; Sunday 22nd March: Aaron Akugbo, trumpet with piano accompaniment.

Russell Burley, chair of Hertford Music Club, said: “Audiences regularly praise the youthfulness, brilliance and passion of the musicians and the joy of getting up close and personal in the amazing

acoustic of the Friends Meeting House. We welcome people of whatever age and whether or not they know anything about classical music. It also offers parents the chance to bring children for free.”

For full details of the new season’s programme, plus membership details and ticket prices, visit hertfordmusicclub.co.uk.

Arts in East Herts offers entertainment for all

There’s a packed programme of arts and cultural events on offer throughout September and October as Arts in East Herts makes its return for 2025.

As Axis went to press, there were more than 170 events planned, with more still being added. A total of £40,000 in grant funding was awarded to local creative organisations by East Herts Council to put on events, and the result is a rich and diverse mix of activities, from painting and jewellery-making to theatre workshops and live performances. Most events are either free to attend or provided at low cost, to encourage as many people as possible to take part or attend. Last year more than 5,000 people of all ages participated and the

council is hoping to increase that this year, with new events such as workshops teaching how to upcycle clothing and a pop-up planetarium.

The best way to keep up to date with what’s on and keep abreast of new events is by visiting yourvoice.eastherts.gov.uk/ arts-in-east-herts.

BArts to launch arts café at The Spotlight and hold silver anniversary concert

BArts, Broxbourne Arts Forum, is launching a new initiative, Arts Café at The Spotlight, on Tuesday 16th September. Due to be a monthly event, it will provide the opportunity for local groups and individual artists to show a mixture of paintings, photographs and crafts, some of which will be for sale.

The lack of a dedicated gallery space in Hoddesdon and Broxbourne has been the catalyst for the new event, which will be on from 11am to 2pm at the café in The Spotlight in High Street, Hoddesdon and will also feature live music from pianist Paul Arnold between 12noon and 1pm. The café itself will be open, selling tea, coffee, sandwiches and pastries.

Future event dates this year are 21st October, 18th November and 10th December.

Meanwhile, BArts is also hosting a silver celebration evening at The Spotlight on Wednesday 24th September to mark its 25th anniversary year, with a concert by London Concertante at 7.30pm, following a reception from 6pm for members and invited guests. The society will also be paying tribute to its late chairman Malcolm Gordon, at the event. For tickets, which are £25, visit thespotlightvenue.com.

Pianist Jamie Cochrane and central and eastern European music group She’Koyokh will play at Hertford Music Club

The London Concertante will play a silver anniversary concert for Broxbourne Arts Forum

The Spotlight – where every occasion shines! A taster of our thrilling

The Story of Swing

Swing through the decades with Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Robbie Williams and more!

Wednesday 17 September, 7.30pm

The Rocket Man

A Tribute to Sir Elton John Friday 26 September, 7.30pm

The Ultimate Pop Show Live (matinee)

For kids, teens and families to enjoy together Sunday 28 September, 3pm

Dirty Dusting

The Hilarious Comedy!

Saturday 4 October, 7.30pm

The Elvis Years

The ultimate celebration of The King! Sunday 5 October, 7.30pm

An Evening with Katie Price and Kerry Katona Wednesday 8 October, 7.30pm

Discos For Grown Ups

70s, 80s and 90s disco party! Saturday 11 October

Herbert The Hedgehog

A fun packed puppet musical! Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 October, 10.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm

Doors and bar open 1.5 hour prior to event start.

Why not enjoy a relaxing pre-show drink and a slice of our delicious... AUTHENTIC STONE BAKED Italian Pizza

thespotlightvenue.com

01992 441946 (Monday-Friday 10am-2pm)

The best new films to see this month

Signs of Life (15)

Out on Friday 5th September

A new British comedy-drama that won Best Feature at the London Independent Film Festival and Berlin Indie Film Festival. Anne, struck dumb by a dangerous cycle of depression and grief, decides to take herself off on a cheap holiday. But instead of finding peace and beauty she runs into danger before a chance encounter with a fellow traveller offers her an unexpected lifeline.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (PG)

Out on Friday 12th September

Will it really be The Grand Finale? Only time will tell as Julian Fellowes’ huge TV hit returns to the big screen. When Mary finds herself in a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change

Lucas and Albert

Wednesday 17th September at Hertfordshire Studios

Wednesday 1st October, 7.30pm

A Big Bold Beautiful Journey (PG)

Out on Friday 19th September Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell

star in an imaginative tale of two strangers and the unbelievable journey that connects them. David is heading to a wedding in his old car when he meets Sarah, but his car has a unique GPS which sends them off on a remarkable journey.

A special screening of an award-winning film with local connections is being held at Hertfordshire Studios in Hoddesdon this month. Lucas and Albert shocked the film world in 2021 by winning the Best Feature Film award at The National Film Awards. This dark comedy tells the story of two ageing hit men who embark on what could be their last job and stars A G Longhurst and James Osborne, both of whom grew up in Cheshunt. The screening is at 7pm on Wednesday 17th September at Hertfordshire Studios in Brewery Road, Hoddesdon EN11 8HF. Tickets are £10 and doors open at 6pm. To book call 01992 899000 or visit hertfordshirestudios.com.

Thursday 9th October, 7.30pm

The Big Pants Party

Friday

A day at the races for the cast of Downton Abbey

the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the future.

THE BARNET FOOD FESTIVAL

13–14 September 2025

The Barnet Food Festival is taking off this September, so bring your appetite and join us for a weekend of food, fun and fantastic aircraft.

Tickets from £5.00

rafmuseum.org/whatson

FOOD & DRINK

The Cock fuses history with contemporary cuisine to create an attractive gastropub

Just a short drive from the area covered by Axis, the reimagining of a historic 450-year-old coaching inn as a bold new gastropub gives Hertfordshire diners a new destination to visit.

The Cock has just opened in Hitchin High Street and is the first launch from the newly-formed Herts Pub Company. It blends the building’s rich heritage with contemporary culinary flair, with dark wood tables, plush seating and patterned furnishings in the main lounge bar, as well as an elegant 46-seat dining room and The Stables, a 15-cover private dining space. There is also an outside garden patio for warmer days.

The food side of The Cock is led by head chef Alex Corley, formerly of Thompson in St Albans and Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill. Alex works alongside operations director Adam Msetfi, who readers may recognise from his time at the two-AA Rosette pub and restaurant The Tilbury in Datchworth and its sister pub

The White Hart in Welwyn.

The historic building itself has been sensitively restored with nods to the past such as original framed photographs from the pub’s previous incarnations.

On the menu

At its heart is an elevated gastropub menu, shaped by the seasons and where provenance and British produce are very much to the fore. Head chef Alex’s all-day dining menu combines traditional favourites with his own contemporary twists, showcasing quality ingredients from across the British Isles.

For example, starters include Citrus-cured mackerel with rainbow radish, buttermilk and dill sauce; Hand-dived Orkney scallops with a curry sauce and

sweetcorn purée; and Honey balsamic Heritage carrots with goat’s cheese. Mains range from lamb saddle with peas, wild garlic and goat’s curd; to 50-day aged Sirloin in a smoked bone marrow sauce; and Poached chalk stream trout in a beetroot and sorrel sauce. If you’ve a sweet tooth, don’t miss the desserts, such as a British strawberry tart with whipped vanilla custard; or Chocolate mousse with pistachio and olive oil, finished with vanilla ice cream.

Of course, every proper pub needs a standout roast so Sundays

promise to be a treat at The Cock. Combine your visit with a trip round Hitchin’s attractive town centre and walk off your choice of Herefordshire rump of beef; Blythburgh Farm pork belly; North Devon roast chicken; and Goat’s cheese and field mushroom Wellington. All come with crisp roasties, cauliflower cheese, buttered baby carrots, Yorkshire puddings and gravy. If you are just dropping by, you can still sample Alex’s cuisine with bar snacks such as Cornish crab tartlet, elderflower and Granny Smith’s apple; and Brioche doughnuts with pulled

beef, pickled red onion, crispy onions and chives alongside a selection of beers both on tap and bottled. There is also a selection of expertly crafted cocktails and a carefully curated wine list from across the globe.

The Cock is open Wednesday to Sunday; from 4-11pm on Wednesday, 12noon to 11pm Thursday to Saturday and 12noon to 7pm on Sunday, and it is well worth the journey.

The Cock 8 High Street, Hitchin SG5 1BH 01462 539200 thecockhitchin.co.uk

Adam Msetfi and Alex Corley have launched The Cock in Hitchin, which has undergone an extensive refurbishment

New White Swan managers keen to support community

One of Hoddesdon’s most historic pubs has welcomed new managers who are keen to build upon its reputation as a friendly community hub.

Married couple Andy Bingham and Jacqueline Crowley took over at The White Swan in High Street at the beginning of August and were plunged straight into one of the town centre’s busiest months, with events including Rock Around The Clock Tower, for which the pub had a live music stage.

Andy and Jacqueline come to Hoddesdon with 12 years of experience of managing pubs around the south-east, including in East Grinstead, Oxford, Brighton and north and west London. Most recently they took a year out in Dubai to open their own restaurant, but Andy says they missed home and were keen to return, and also to get back to doing what they do best.

‘We love running community-focused pubs that are big on sports and music – that’s what we are good at,” he said.

Their plans for The White Swan include a continued focus on sports and live music, with new TV screens already installed and a new garden and an updated food menu, which will continue to feature traditional pub food, to come.

There is live music every Saturday night and a DJ every Friday. Andy says the welcome they have received in Hoddesdon is what has really stood out so far for them both. So, if you haven’t met them yet, pop down to The White Swan this month – it’s open seven days a week from 12noon.

The White Swan 95 High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8TB 01992 442533 whiteswanhoddesdon.co.uk

The Fox & Hounds is the perfect place to enjoy the festive period, with cosy corners, log fires, seasonal menus and a relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you are getting together with friends or family, having a works do or just fancy a night off from cooking & hosting – we’ve got you covered.

Our popular Christmas Set Menu is available for tables of 6 or more, and our normal seasonal a la carté menu will be running throughout the festive period too.

Get in touch for a copy of our Christmas Set Menu or head to our website for further details… Book now for Christmas at

Barnet Food Festival set to take flight at RAF Museum

The RAF Museum is the setting for a vibrant new event – the Barnet Food Festival, on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September. The event will blend food, entertainment and aviation history and, what’s more, kids go free, making it the perfect family day out.

With more than 40 food and drink stalls, visitors can enjoy a range of global cuisines, from wood-fired pizzas and spicy curries to sweet treats and artisan coffees. The Barnet Beach Bar, operated by Luxuria Events, will be serving cocktails too, with VIP ticket holders able to enjoy a complimentary drink. There will be entertainment for all ages – children can learn circus skills like juggling and plate-spinning with Arthur Hyam, the British Young Juggler of the Year. Meanwhile, live music on the Spitfire Stage will feature performances by Sound of Soul,

Lucy Alexandra, Aruna, The Barn-Ettes and Lara throughout the weekend.

Families can also explore the RAF Museum’s impressive collection of historic aircraft which offer a unique backdrop to the event. Tickets are priced £10 for adults, with free entrance for children.

The RAF Museum London is in Grahame Park Way NW9 5LL. To book visit rafmuseum.org/ whatson.

NOLAKI Turkish

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

VEYSO’S Turkish

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 BY BAAN THITIYA

Thai takeaway & delivery

Ruay Rôt means ‘rich in flavour’ in Thai and that is precisely what the food you can order for takeaway or delivery from Hertford’s newest eatery is. Just down the road from its previous and hugely popular Baan Thitiya restaurant, this new takeaway outlet offers authentic Thai food for you to enjoy at home, continuing Baan Thitiya’s story after 20 years in Hertford. You can order by phone or through the GoGetters and Deliveroo apps for delivery to Hertford, Ware and Hoddesdon. The menu includes many vegan specials. Outside tables are also available on warmer days.

6 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RB 01992 587706

ruayrôt.co.uk

THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining

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

PIRCIO

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

Asian Fusion

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

MANTO’S

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 Pub & Dining

The Golden Fleece is an old English pub with a modern twist. Set in the pretty village of Braughing, Jess and Peter Tatlow’s pub has been a favourite for over 15 years. The menu is updated bi-monthly, allowing for fresh, seasonal and delicious locally-sourced food, and a specials board also offers changing dishes. The Fleece has an exceptional reputation, with plenty of choice for diners with gluten or dairy allergies and vegans/vegetarians, allowing everyone to enjoy a visit. A large, secluded garden with play area is perfect on warmer days or enjoy log burners on cooler ones.

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

RONI’S Fine Dining

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

For Sale: Garth House, Hertingfordbury £1,800,000 Chain Free

A charming Grade II listed Georgian House with mature gardens. The house currently offers five bedrooms, two bathrooms and four receptions with dry cellar and lots of storage areas. The gardens, just over an acre, are a particular feature, abundant with mature trees, plants and flowers. At the end of the garden there is a well-maintained tennis court and a separate access gate to St Marys Lane. The garden also features a large greenhouse and three sheds.