MiMagazine APR MAY 2024 issue

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• Redbourn Autos – Car scams… don’t be their next victim • Time to SIPP into financial freedom?

• Family mediation – how the process works • Coffee, cake and BSL

• MiMagazine chats with... Simon Robinson, a director of Town and Country • PUZZLES • WHAT’S ON • DIRECTORY OF SERVICES

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Nikki, Phil & The Team Welcome you...

SELECTION OF GIFTS AND TREATS FOR THE HOME.

2 4 1 ON EAT IN FRESH DOUG D H

HURS FROM M 5.

"For Food & Gifts we Love!"

TAKE AWAYS ~FUNCTIONS~LARGE CAR AR PARK~ & MORE E! RESERVATIONS: 01582 872460

"AAn Award rd Wiinnning Pu Pub ub witthh Great View iewss! s!".... www.thebellinstudham.co.uk Dunstablle Rd, Studham, Beds. LU6 2QG Ema ail: info@thebellinstudha am.co.uk Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes freshly prepared ITALIA AN N & ENGLISH FOOD~DRINK~GIFTS~HOME DECOR~GIFT VOUCHERS~

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Learning bowls needn’t be a pipe dream...

Can you name a sporting world champion who won their medals while smoking a pipe? As much as the thought of Tiger Woods conquering Augusta while enjoying a puff makes me smile, as anyone familiar with lawn bowls will tell you, it was the late David Bryant CBE. He is widely regarded as the greatest lawn bowler England has ever produced, winning 19 world and Commonwealth gold medals in total.

But the sport is not just about medals and titles, it is also a great way to relax and make new friends – and it embraces all ages and all abilities.

Throughout the area, clubs are now preparing for their open days, which will provide a great opportunity for newcomers to go along and experience the fun and skill of bowls.

Open days and other ‘taster events’ are being held in the coming weeks. To find out when your local club is running theirs, turn to pages 28 and 29 – discovering a new sport needn’t be a ‘pipe dream’.

MiMagazine also sat down for a chat with Simon Robinson, a director of Town and Country estate

agency in Caddington, who tells us why he thinks the greatest TV show ever is the comedy Curb Your Enthusiasm, why he will be running a couple of ultra­marathons this year, and why he has a tattoo of the Sycamore Gap tree that was vandalised and felled.

And Sue Ferguson explains how a group for the deaf and hard of hearing, and those learning British Sign Language, has gone from strength to strength since it was formed less than 12 months ago to provide an opportunity to socialise and meet new people over coffee and a cake.

Paul Jacques Editor paul­jacques@ntlworld.com 07939 005218

A new community messaging system called Herts Connected (which is part of the Neighbourhood Alerts System) becomes active from April 1st and is replacing OWL (Online Watch Link).

To register visit https://hertsconnected.co.uk/ Residents currently signed up to OWL will continue to receive messages until March 31st.

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Caring for the

community

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f you are local to Redbourn and have driven through the High Street and under the bridge in the past few months you may have noticed that the old Medivet building, as was, (Bridge House) has had more than a lick of paint and is now occupied again after sitting quietly empty for many years.

Protea Business Centre brings some new companies, a meeting room and a charity hub to the village.

It is a new home for By Your Side, a CQC rated ‘outstanding’ domiciliary care company.

Previously based in Hemel Hempstead, it provides home care services that include companionship calls, supporting people with

personal care and activities, respite care and live­in carers.

By Your Side specialises in dementia care and supports people in Hemel Hempstead, Redbourn, St Albans and the surrounding areas.

The centre is also a hub for the By Your Side charity, The Pad Project UK, which supports individuals who are living with incontinence, offering the recycling of unwanted continence and healthcare items, such as wheelchairs, walking frames and much more.

It is a charity trying to reduce the wastage of care items by passing them onto people who really need them.

The charity takes donations of incontinence pads and medical equipment and supports people living with pad poverty.

The business centre is now home to the Sarah Parkins Academy too, which is an interactive hub for the care industry.

It supports carers with training, policies, documents and resources.

The academy offers personalised training courses and its signature course, The Carer to CEO programme for carers wishing to advance their career in the industry or agencies who want to check practices.

The academy also provides courses for families on various subjects such as dementia and moving and handling/assisting.

The centre boasts a new meeting and training room, which seats eight in boardroom style. This is available to the community to book for meetings, training and events, with discounts to Redbourn groups.

By Your Side is currently seeking new carers.

If you are a carer or are interested in a career in care you can contact them on 01442 970460.

Alternatively, if you have a relative who needs support or a little help to maintain their independent living, please get in touch on the same number.

For donations to the Pad Project UK or if you or a family member require support with incontinence supplies or healthcare items, please contact them on 07936 448044.

The new centre is on the left, just after the bridge as you come into the village, opposite the Nickey Line steps, so if you’re local please pop in and see us for more information on our services and have a cuppa.

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Car scams… don’t be their next victim

By Melanie Wooding Jones – Redbourn Auto Solutions – Caring for you, and your car

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uying a car can be one of the second largest investments we make, but with fraud surging in the first half of 2023 by 74 per cent compared with the same period in 2022, we need to review how we buy, sell, and maintain our cherished vehicles.

Why have the numbers surged so significantly?

Figures published by Lloyds Bank demonstrate a sharp increase in car and van fraud citing that vehicles (and their accessories, such as car parts) are now the most common type of online shopping scam reported by victims in the UK. Statistics from Lloyd’s Bank show each victim loses on average £998 to vehicle­related scams.

It’s a lucrative business for fraudsters.

Criminals look for opportunities that give them the fastest, easiest way to extract money from unsuspecting people leaving no trace, or ability to get your money back.

Cars are high value items with a huge target audience. Just look down your road: How many cars do you see? One, two or three­plus per house?

A tough economic climate and an undoubtable squeeze on our household

budget leaves consumers searching for the impossible deal. Sadly, this environment unlocks a playing field of opportunity for criminals to find their next naïve victim.

What do they do?

They are masters of deception and utilise new technology to their benefit and prey on your insecurities. Below are some of the most common scams whether buying, selling or maintaining your current car.

BUYING A CAR Fraudsters have this uncanny propensity to convince you that they are the answer to achieving your dreams. With more than two­ thirds achieving this by advertising on Meta­owned platforms such as Facebook (including Marketplace) or Instagram. And with a further 15 per cent using eBay, it’s even more relevant now to ensure they don’t draw you into their scams.

Below are some of the common tricks…

Fake car ads on social media Fake ads for cars are placed on social media at low prices, some for as little as 50 per cent of its market value. The photo can be of a genuine vehicle appropriated from another

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7 site. False address and personal details are added to give the impression of an authentic seller.

Once an interest is shown in their product, they need to convince you to part with your cash. They will pose as a trustworthy individual and even show you fake documentation to convince you that the purchase is real.

There will be a raft of excuses why you can’t collect the vehicle, but they will conveniently offer to deliver it once payment has been made. Then the pressure sell will start. There will be other buyers, or lots of interest, but they will reserve it for you. They will either get the full price out of you or at least a deposit.

You will never see the car… it didn’t exist.

Their profile disappears and you have no come back. Social media marketplaces appear not to offer safeguards from this type of fraud.

Virtual vehicle scams You respond to an ad where it transpires that the vehicle is currently located abroad. They will then direct you to a fake website which will handle the transfer of funds and shipping costs for you. In theory, when the car is received, they transfer the funds.

In reality, they have your funds, and the car will not arrive.

Fake car sales websites These can be very convincing. Fake car sales websites often have similar sounding names or logos to genuine dealerships.

They are populated with details and photos of real cars that are for sale elsewhere. They will be offered at a fraction of the market value with ‘massive savings’ or ‘big discounts’ that will be hard to resist.

The customer is asked to pay for them in advance of seeing them to secure the deal and the dealer promises to deliver them once payment has been made. The payment is made, the car is not delivered, and the seller

becomes uncontactable.

What Car? Found one fake dealership in Scotland, advertising 79 vehicles for sale to people in the south of England. This increased their chances of being paid online rather than travel to see the vehicle.

Clocked cars The process of reducing a cars mileage to increase its value has been around for years. But spotting a clocked car is more difficult in the digital world.

Check mileage against the Government MOT History Check service or enlist a vehicle checking service that will provide sufficient details of a car’s history and should give you an annual record of mileage.

According to Lloyds Bank, the five models reported most often as part of vehicle scams in 2023 were: • Ford Fiesta • BMW 1 Series • VW Transporter (van) • Mercedes Sprinter (van) • Audi A3 SELLING YOUR CAR Criminals will take every opportunity to help you release your cash to them. They are bold and fearless and will have the audacity to not only cold call you, but also come direct to your door.

Fake car buyers You put your car onto the internet for sale and you are then contacted by a car buyer.

Typically, they will have the ‘ideal buyer’ for you who is offering the asking price or sometimes an unrealistic higher price. They will ask you to contact a shipping company on their behalf and pay you by banker’s draft (which can be forged).

You ship the car; the bank rejects the bankers draft; and you’re left with no car or payment and the fraudsters leave with no trace.

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8 Vehicle matching scam Similar to fake car buyers, the car is advertised in a shop window, magazine/paper or online.

The seller is contacted and promised that they have a list of buyers lined up who are looking to buy that exact car. All you must do is pay the ‘matching fee’ up front, and they’ll introduce the ‘definite buyer’ to you to complete the sale.

Any payment is lost, and there is no buyer.

The Office of Fair Trading has said that consumers lose nearly £3 million a year on this kind of fraud.

Payment by cash If you have achieved a successful sale and the buyer offers cash, you may be inclined to take it? Most serious buyers parting with a substantial amount of money will opt for the safer transaction of an immediate bank transfer – it protects them and you.

Shield yourself against a potential money launderer and insist on bank transfer.

Dirty oil trick Often when selling a car, buyers will try to bring down the price by pointing out any defects. In this scam, the aim is to make you believe the engine is faulty. The criminal will arrive with a friend or relative to view the car.

One will distract the owner, the other will pour oil into the coolant reservoir, causing smoke to pour out of the engine during the test drive leaving the buyers demanding a huge discount due to the fault. You give a discount, and they are left with a car that they can fix and sell on, pocketing your money.

Be aware of suspicious behaviour from any potential buyers and be confident to refuse the sale if you are doubtful. Report it to the police and call your garage to rectify the oil contamination.

Theft It’s not just your money they’re after, but they also target your car, removing them from your drive with ease. They use advertising platforms as catalogues to find cars to order.

They may enter into conversation with you and even come to view the car, before removing it from your drive.

Currently, keyless entry cars are the favoured and easy targets. High value and easy to remove using signal relay equipment. The equipment picks up the fob’s signal from outside a home and is used to unlock and start vehicles without physically having the key.

Be aware of unusual activity such as vans with a car towing dolly or tow trucks. All they need to do is roll the front two wheels onto the dolly and they’re off. Just because they act with confidence, doesn’t mean they should officially be there. Trust your gut feel, ask questions and report it!

Another valuable item which is also very accessible is the catalytic converter, which holds valuable metals. These are removed in moments with hydraulic pincers. Much easier on higher vehicles such as 4x4s and vans, which give good access, but also older cars that were made with additional valuable materials before cars became more efficient and demanded less.

Be careful when you share your address and what is shared in your conversation. It is easy to inadvertently say that you watch your son play football every Sunday morning at the local club… you’ve just told them where the car is and how long you will be away!

So, what can we do?

Prevention is better than cure, so protect yourself and try to stay safe from all forms of vehicle scams, by being vigilant:

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9 • Always do your own research on who you are buying the car from.

• Don’t give personal details or card details to people you don’t know.

• Never hand over paperwork until you have the money in your account. CHAPS/BACS/ PayPal/direct money transfer all happen immediately.

• Check documents. Ask to see the seller’s V5C logbook. This is your verification that the seller is the legitimate owner.

• Stop, think and be sceptical if there are promises putting you under pressure to make a decision.

• Don’t be distracted. If you suspect foul play, stop the sale. If possible have two people available when the car is viewed and be aware of the buyer’s ability to tamper with the bonnet or exhaust.

• Only use official websites. Check the web address you are redirected to. Do your research.

• If you think you’ve been the victim of a crash for cash scam, act as you would do in a genuine accident – gather the other party’s details. Report the incident to the police and your insurer stating that you think it was a staged accident.

• Only buy car insurance from bonafide companies.

• Report fraudsters – Don’t give them the ability to scam others.

Sadly, no one is impervious to a cleverly put together scam. It is emotionally tough to feel that someone has played on your good nature.

The reality is, these people don’t care that you’ll be left out of pocket, as long as they’re lining their own.

Don’t be the next victim of crime. The safest way to buy a new or used car is from a well­ known, approved dealer that is known to you.

If a deal looks ‘too good to be true’, it usually is.

If you need any help with buying or selling your car, or would like the reassurance of a safety check on your new purchase, give us a call. We’re happy to help.

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MiMagazine chats with... Simon Robinson Simon Robinson is a director of Town and Country estate agency in Caddington and has been working in the business since 1998. He lives in Caddington with his family and tries to support local projects and work within the community.

Why estate agency? I started at a Luton town centre agency in the mid­90s and immediately enjoyed the cut and thrust of agency. Over the years I’ve learnt about all aspects of property transactions, from the legalities of letting to the after­sale process and everything between. I enjoy the day­to­day of helping folks move into their dream home and being there to assist in all aspects of moving home.

First job? As a kid I worked paper rounds but my first real job was in the coffee shop at Boots in the Luton Arndale – I enjoyed it but it was never a long­term option.

Hobbies/pastimes For many years I produced a radio show for Luton and Dunstable radio (formerly at the hospital) but gave this up a few years ago. I’m a passionate fund­raiser for Keech Hospice where myself and the T&C team have been responsible for more than £30,000 in fundraising for the charity. I’m a keen runner and trekker – in 2023 I trekked Hadrian’s Wall for the third time, visited and climbed the Yorkshire three peaks, summited Snowdon twice with my 16­ year­old son, ran an ultra­marathon (35 miles) and the beach head marathon – plus I ran over 1,300 miles in the year – mostly for Keech sponsorships. This year I plan on running a couple of ultra­marathons (one of 70 miles) and will visit more of the country with walking boots in tow. Did you know I recently got a tattoo of the Sycamore Gap tree

that was vandalised and felled as I was leading a group who were the last people to walk by it (the day prior to its felling).

Favourite drink? I don’t drink alcohol, but enjoy a nice Costa mocha or Pepsi Max. Favourite meal? A simple mushroom omelette please. I have a very sweet tooth so enjoy most deserts, but my favourite is either pancakes with lemon and sugar or an apple crumble with custard.

Book you most enjoyed? I don’t read at all; if I think about it, it’s possibly only a couple of books ever, so would have to say either ‘Where’s Wally’ or ‘Where’s Wally 2’ – there’s no reading to do and the pictures are great.

They’re good fun!

❛I recently got a tattoo of the Sycamore Gap tree that was vandalised and felled as I was one of the last people to walk by it | Film/TV show you most enjoyed? The greatest TV show ever is the comedy Curb Your Enthusiasm starring Larry David – I think he is a genius! Film wise, I’m a Star Wars geek who loves everything Superhero related as well. On the serious side, I’m a fan of The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather and Goodfellas.

Best holiday? Its got to be Disney World in Florida, but any Disney park will do – a big kid at heart this is the best place to go, bar none.

If you could have any four people to a dinner party who would they be? I’m not a big fan of parties, but if I had to I’d go for a very musical party and bring back Johnny Cash and John Lennon (if allowed), along with Bruce Springsteen and Dave Grohl from the rock band Foo Fighters. That would be interesting – especially if they all bought the guitars along!

Do you know a local personality who would like to be featured in MiMagazine Email paul‐jacques@ntlworld.com

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Raising champions Louis Downie explores the positive impact of junior golf on your child’s future. s a parent, envisioning the future success and happiness of your child is a heartfelt aspiration. Enter the enchanting world of junior golf, a realm where beyond mastering the nuances of the sport, your child embarks on a transformative journey that shapes character, builds discipline, and lays the foundation for a promising future.

This exploration dives into the diverse ways children immersed in golf reap benefits that extend well into adulthood, offering insights into why junior golf could be a pivotal investment in your child’s future!

Picture your child gracefully navigating the fairways, not just mastering the swing but engaging in a delightful form of exercise.

Junior golf provides a low­impact, physically beneficial activity that enhances motor skills and coordination. Moreover, the mental demands of the game cultivate focus, strategic thinking and problem­solving – skills that contribute to a well­rounded and healthy adult life for your child.

Golf, often deemed a patient person’s game, imparts essential lessons in discipline and patience to your child from an early age. The wait for the opportune moment, the dedicated practise to refine skills, and the ability to cope with occasional setbacks become foundational. These qualities, nurtured through junior golf, have the potential to shape your child’s character, fostering the ability to set goals, make deliberate choices, and gracefully navigate life’s challenges.

Beyond the solitary strokes on the course, junior golf becomes a social arena where your child learns to navigate interpersonal dynamics. Engaging with fellow competitors fosters communication skills, sportsmanship, and the forging of lasting friendships. These social skills cultivated during junior golf lay the groundwork for your child’s ability to

PICTURE: REDBOURN GOLF CLUB

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collaborate, negotiate, and form meaningful connections in both personal and professional realms as they grow into adulthood.

Golf, with its unpredictable nature, becomes a platform for your child to cultivate resilience and emotional intelligence. The challenges of the course, the management of unexpected setbacks, and the celebration of victories contribute to emotional maturity. Through junior golf, your child learns to handle pressure, adapt to change, and develop a balanced perspective on success and failure – qualities that prove invaluable in navigating the complexities of adult life.

Parenting is a journey of providing your child with tools for success and happiness. Junior golf, with its meticulous pathways and transformative experiences, offers more than just a sport – it’s an investment in your child’s future. Beyond mastering the swing, your child gains physical fitness, discipline, social acumen, and emotional resilience through junior golf. It becomes a gift that shapes them into a well­rounded adult, ready to navigate life’s intricate landscape with confidence, grace and success. Consider junior golf not just as a pastime but as a meaningful investment in your child’s holistic development.

Louis Downie is a PGA Golf Professional at Redbourn Golf Club. Email Louis@ldgolf.co.uk Redbourn Golf Club Kinsbourne Green Lane, Redbourn AL3 7QA

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Tring Brewery supporting mental health charity Tring Brewery’s charity of choice for 2024 is Hector’s House.

Based in Berkhamsted, just down the road from the brewery, Hector’s House aims to prevent suicide and reduce mental health stigma through education, awareness and support.

Hector’s House was founded in 2016 to campaign in the name of Hector Stringer, a Tring local who sadly took his life aged 18.

Tring brewer and Hector’s House ambassador Sam explains why this partnership is more than skin­deep: “Hector and I were best friends The residents in Oldhill Wood, Studham have lost their regular “amazing postie”.

Robin retired after delivering their mail for 18 years. The residents had a collection for him and raised £480, which he was given at a celebration presentation earlier this year.

growing up and it was a huge shock when he took his own life.

“I have always tried to support Hector’s House where I can, from helping with their initial logo design, to using my role now at the brewery, to nominate them as our charity of choice for 2024.

“All of the team at Tring Brewery are excited to assist Hector’s House where possible; our hope is to amplify the amazing work that they do for mental wellbeing in the local community.”

Monthly specials, fundraising events and more are planned for the very near future.

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Family mediation Richard Phillips explains some key points about family mediation and how the process works.

Family mediation – What is it?

Family mediation is designed to assist divorcing or separating couples reach an agreement in relation to financial and/or children matters that arise as a result of their relationship breakdown.

Who conducts family mediation?

Family mediation is conducted by a trained mediator, who acts as an independent third party and helps to facilitate conversations between couples with a view to reaching an agreement. The mediator has to remain impartial to both parties and is not able to advise one party in preference to the other.

What happens during family mediation?

Prior to the commencement of family mediation, each person meets with the mediator alone in order to explain the situation from their point of view. Following this time, the mediator then assesses whether the parties are suitable for mediation, and if so, invites the couple to start attending joint sessions where they can begin discussing issues together. There may be occasions where it is appropriate for your solicitor to be involved in the mediation process alongside you with the mediator talking to you and your solicitor and then talking separately to your former partner and his or her lawyer.

Confidences can be kept if you don’t want the mediator to repeat these though not financial information or anything that may risk significant harm to someone. This can often be done in one day rather than over a number of separate shorter meetings. This is called hybrid mediation.

Do I need to sit in the same room as my ex‐partner?

No. Most mediators offer a service called ‘shuttle mediation’ where each party sits in a separate room and the mediator goes back

and forth between the parties during the session. This is particularly helpful in cases where there has been domestic abuse, but the victim is willing to have discussions to try to resolve the matters in dispute.

How much does mediation cost?

The cost of mediation will depend on the mediator appointed by the parties. Most mediators will give an estimate of costs at the start of the process and the couple will be expected to pay at the end of each session in such shares as they agree. It is much cheaper than court proceedings and cheaper than protracted correspondence between solicitors.

Is mediation a quicker way to resolve my dispute?

Invariably it is much quicker than lengthy solicitors negotiations and certainly court proceedings. Sometimes the issues can be resolved in one or two meetings. In other cases, there may need to be several mediation sessions before a set of proposals is reached.

The couple should then consult their legal representatives for advice and to make the mediated agreement into a binding order.

Does mediation always work?

Usually couples will reach agreements or resolve most of the issues. Where that is not possible they will need legal advice and possibly start court proceedings or use another process such as arbitration.

If you would like more information or would like to discuss the options regarding mediation or alternative dispute resolutions please contact Richard Phillips, Senior Consultant Solicitor, Accredited Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer, by email on richard.phillips@machins.co.uk

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18 RETIREMENT

TIME TO SIPP INTO FINANCIAL FREEDOM? ‘I WANT TO TAKE CHARGE OF MY RETIREMENT SAVINGS’ A Self‐Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) is more than just a pension. It’s a gateway to financial freedom, offering you an unparalleled level of control. With a SIPP, you are at the helm of your investment decisions, determining how your money is invested and your pension pot grows. Whether you make regular contributions or occasional lump‐ sum deposits, even a modest start can significantly impact your retirement nest egg.

IPPs come with the bonus of tax benefits, matching those other pensions offer. For instance, a contribution of £8,000 to your SIPP attracts a £2,000 top­up from the government. If you’re a higher­rate taxpayer, you can gain even more through tax relief.

S

onwards. This is an essential factor to consider before opting for a SIPP. In most cases, you can contribute up to £40,000 a year of your earnings tax­free. There’s no ‘right’ age to start saving for a pension, but starting early allows your money more time to grow.

Tax situation The government substantially enhances up to 45% (or 47% for Scottish rate taxpayers) as tax relief on any contributions you make. This means your money can grow more efficiently and provide a larger nest egg for your retirement. However, remember that your specific tax situation will depend on your circumstances and may be subject to pension and tax law changes.

Investing in a SIPP means securing your funds until you reach a certain age – currently 55, but set to increase to 57 from 2028

Investment options SIPPs are accessible to anyone under the age of 75. Even without an income, you can contribute up to £2,880 each tax year and still qualify for tax relief.

For parents, a Junior SIPP offers a way to start investing in your child’s future.

Remember, though, access to these funds will only be available once they reach the minimum age—again, 55 now, rising to 57 in 2028.

SIPP schemes offer a broad selection of investments you can manage independently

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19 or with our expert guidance. They provide a more comprehensive range of investment options, including company shares (UK and overseas), collective investments such as open­ended investment companies (OEICs), unit trusts, investment trusts, property and land. However, residential property is excluded.

SIPP, there’s no legal obligation for them to do so. This pension scheme allows you to make informed decisions about your savings and where to invest them, standing out from standard employer’s pension schemes.

THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE AND SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON AS SUCH.

Accelerating growth Remember, as with any investment product, the value of your pension may fluctuate. You might not get back the amount you originally invested. Additionally, choosing how to reinvest dividends could also accelerate the growth of your SIPP pension pot, outpacing some employer­based pensions that don’t offer the same control and flexibility.

While your employer may contribute to your

A PENSION IS A LONG­TERM INVESTMENT NOT NORMALLY ACCESSIBLE UNTIL AGE 55 (57 FROM APRIL 2028 UNLESS THE PLAN HAS A PROTECTED PENSION AGE).

THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENTS (AND ANY INCOME FROM THEM) CAN GO DOWN AS WELL AS UP, WHICH WOULD HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE LEVEL OF PENSION BENEFITS AVAILABLE. YOUR PENSION INCOME COULD ALSO BE AFFECTED BY THE INTEREST RATES AT THE TIME YOU TAKE YOUR BENEFITS.

t: 01582 414514 e: info@capitalmanor.co.uk

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20

Spring ‘to-do’ list

By Roger Runswick, Director at The 50plus

T

he snowdrops, daffodils and primroses are out and the bluebells are on their way the days are getting longer, which can only mean one thing – it is spring. There is nothing quite as satisfying as having a good clean­up before you emerge from your winter hibernation. Ideally, a spring to­do list will include jobs in the garden, as well as a spruce up indoors, and perhaps a spot of redecorating to brighten up a room or two.

Garden must‐dos: Clear the gutters and check the downpipe filters – Safely access your gutter and then remove any debris or leaves, wiping down the outside as you go.

Mow the lawns – The first mow of the season is important. Before you start, check for any hedgehogs or other wildlife who may have taken up residence in your garden. For the first mow, take just a small amount off the top of your lawn to prevent causing stress to the grass. Gradually over the next few weeks of mowing you can cut more off.

Smarten up the lawn edging – Creating a sharp edge around your lawn not only prevents grass from creeping into borders, it also provides the finishing touch to your freshly cut garden. Wait until the soil is dry as working on wet soil will compact it and damage the lawn.

Tackle the weeds – Removing weeds early means you avoid them setting seed.

Remove any sycamore seedlings – Preventative action is needed with sycamore seedlings. Leave them on the ground and they will set seed and become saplings making them harder to pull out.

Rake up any seeds on the ground as soon as possible and apply weedkiller.

Clean out the pond pump – The pump is the heart of your pond and giving it a clean and an

examination for any wear and tear ahead of the new season will ensure an optimal flow of water keeping your pond healthy and clean.

Clear the patios and driveway ready for power washing – Before you reach for the power wash, it is always best to clear the workspace first by removing any furniture, plants, pots and other items from your patio.

Clean the garage doors – Regular cleaning will extend the life of your garage door, as well as keep it looking smart. Use mild soap and water and scrub both sides of the door with a non­abrasive cloth and hose it down gently.

Check the fences and repair them as necessary – The winter weather can take its toll on fences. A good place to start in terms of maintaining them is to check all along the base for any signs of rot including the posts.

Wash down and check any paintwork – A good clean can give the appearance of a newly painted exterior without going to the trouble of repainting.

House to‐dos: • Scrub the kitchen cabinets • Deep clean the fridge • Deep clean bathrooms • Clean the carpets • Clear any clutter from the house Choose a room in the house to spruce up with fresh décor – You can repaint a room in a day if it is just a freshen­up and if you choose a colour not too dissimilar to that existing.

Spring cleaning can be an overwhelming task but break it down into small chunks over the space of a week or two and you will be reaping the benefits of all your hard work in your sparkling home in no time. www.the50plus.co.uk

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21

4-16 4 16 yard SKIP S HIRE 20-40 yard ROL LL ON/OFF HIRE TRADE TIPPING WELCOME

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24

Sue Ferguson explains how a social group for the deaf and hard of hearing, and those learning British Sign Language, has gone from strength to strength since it was formed less than 12 months ago.

Coffee, cake and BSL

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ess than a year ago, we set up new social group in Redbourn for the deaf or hard of hearing and those who have studied British Sign Language (BSL).

The group is primarily run by myself and supported by Silvia Panico, Liz Brindley and Lyn Marsden­Day. It was established in May 2023 by a group of students after they had completed their BSL Level 1 award with the Redbourn­based company DeafSigns.

Half the group are continuing their BSL journey and are currently studying the Level 2 award and others, although not still formally studying, still wanted the opportunity to continue to meet with each other to practise BSL skills.

So, when we finished our Level 1 course we went for a celebratory cuppa and cake in the local tea room and hatched a plan to set up a Facebook group to try to encourage a few others in a similar situation to join us to practise, and most importantly, to encourage deaf and hard of hearing people in local communities to come too.

The aim of the group is to socialise, meet new people and provide an opportunity to practise, retain and update our skills in a safe and enjoyable environment.

We had our first meeting in June 2023 and the plan originally was to meet once a month.

However, the group took off so fast with lots

of members joining the Facebook group that

by July we swiftly decided to change the frequency to every other week because if you missed a meeting, two months was too long to wait.

We now meet every two weeks on Saturdays between 10.30am and 12.30pm at the Queen of Herts tea room in Redbourn High Street.

The owner Andrea reserves space for us, usually in one of their upstairs rooms or downstairs if we have anyone attending who cannot manage the stairs. The cost to attend is £6, which includes a hot or cold drink of your choice and a small sweet treat or £9 to supersize your cake!

The Facebook group has quickly grown from our initial ten students to 72 people from Redbourn, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Bushey, Watford, Aylesbury and further afield.

It has surpassed our expectations and is growing every day.

We have made some amazing new friends with people whose interest in BSL ranges from complete beginners who want to get a taste for the language before arranging to learn, to others who are close to completing Level 6 and are on the path to becoming BSL interpreters.

It is so great to be in a room where everyone is at such different stages of their learning and so helpful to each other. As well as finding

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25 many new hearing friends who are studying BSL, we now have some amazing new deaf friends who regularly join us and are pleased to help us all to understand deaf culture – and also some different vocabulary that we may not learn in class.

The founding group learnt BSL with DeafSigns, which has deaf teachers offering courses ranging from introductory level up to Level 6. They teach both in person and remotely via online platforms and more information can be found at their website deafsigns.co.uk/ or by contacting info@deafsigns.co.uk.

❛Who would have thought a

conversation about us getting together to keep up our sign language skills would evolve into this fantastic group | Last year, BSL was officially recognised as a language in the UK and it was such good news to hear that from September 2025, BSL will be taught as a GCSE option available to all pupils.

Personally, I feel it is just a start and will be an amazing day when BSL is taught in primary schools as I think it is such a natural language for young minds to easily absorb in those early years.

Here are some comments from just a few members of the group:

Lauren: “I am profoundly deaf and I can sign language and I love go there when I can and help people who willing learn sign language – and they have a lovely choice of cake and coffee... yummy!”

Rosie: “I joined to improve my very basic skills so I can communicate better with my deaf friend. The group is very friendly and inclusive.”

Rowan: “I am hard of hearing, and my partner works with deaf blind people, so we decided to start learning BSL; we are absolute beginners, but we feel very welcome in the group.”

Alison: “As Rowan mentions above (I’m his partner), we have very basic BSL skills and joined to help improve it, as well as enjoy the social side of this lovely group. I am currently studying Signature Level One in BSL at Oaklands College, with lovely Zahra as my tutor. I am struggling a little as I just don’t practise enough, despite working with deaf, blind and deaf­blind people every day.”

Binita: “I like the club as it helps me practise BSL and learn to communicate and make new friends in a relaxed setting. I also love the coffee and cake.”

Sarah: “It’s so nice that we’re all learning together. Thank you again for this opportunity.”

Liz: “Who would have thought a conversation about us getting together to keep up our sign language skills would evolve into this fantastic group we now have, and that no one is excluded regardless of their level of signing. Andrea is so lovely and welcoming into her tea room.”

Elinor: “I like how everyone is made to feel welcome and beginners in BSL are encouraged as much as possible. I learn a lot of BSL from other people and it gives an opportunity to practise. Everyone is friendly and no meet‐up is ever the same.”

Benita: “I enjoy coming along to practise my signing and keep in touch with a growing group of friends who recognise the need to learn this beautiful, visual language as it will surely become more broadly recognised in our schools and hopefully the wider community.”

n We would love to welcome more new members to the group, who can either join the Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/9114972 96585639 or alternatively by emailing us at redbournbslsocial@gmail.com

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26

Hundreds of cases of domestic abuse tackled thanks to new centre...

A

new project to reduce domestic abuse across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire has already begun helping hundreds of people. More than 230 referrals have been made to the Chrysalis Centre, which works across the two counties.

The centre brings together a range of professionals from health care, criminal justice and behavioural change experts to introduce clinical and behavioural support to prevent abuse.

Interventions are available to anyone who causes harm and is a resident of the two counties, regardless of sex, age or risk level. It is open to self­referrals as well as to individuals or families recommended for help by organisations such as the police, care workers and medical staff.

The Chrysalis Centre was set up in the autumn of last year following a successful joint bid by the offices of the police and crime commissioner (PCC) for Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.

Hertfordshire PCC David Lloyd pledged final funding of £300,000 from his Community Safety and Criminal Justice budget to enable the project to run over the next two years.

There has also been an additional £1.2 million in pledged funding in cash and kind from Hertfordshire Constabulary and multiple local authority partners, including Hertfordshire County Council.

The Chrysalis Centre operates as an intervention hub to work with domestic abuse perpetrators to prevent or break the cycle of their behaviour. This offending type can include spousal abuse, as well as abuse against children and parents.

Mr Lloyd said: “It is great to see the Chrysalis

Centre is already putting into place plans for hundreds of people to prevent domestic violence.

“This new ambitious service is aiming to reduce the number of victims in our county.

The Chrysalis Centre are working with perpetrators to intervene and act before any harm is done. This is part of Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Prevention First strategy, which aims to put in place policies to tackle the root causes of crime.

“I look forward to seeing how the project develops and will be monitoring how it is reducing crime and harm and making Hertfordshire safer.”

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Gilbertson said: “It is encouraging to see so many people in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire making use of the free Chrysalis Centre project designed to prevent domestic abuse offending escalating. We have been encouraging our officers to signpost people at risk of abusing their spouses or children to the project, as part of our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls.”

The project is mostly being funded from a £39 million Home Office scheme, which will see 50 projects rolled out nationally over the next two years, supporting initiatives to stop abusers from repeatedly targeting victims and terrorising vulnerable people.

Many domestic abusers are repeat offenders with 83 per cent of male offenders repeating their offences within a six­month period. This makes intervening to stop their pattern of behaviour paramount to protect victims.

The Chrysalis Centre is now open for referrals, including self­referrals, and more details can be found at https://chrysaliscentre.net/

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28

Bowl up And embrace the fun and skill of lawn bowls, as John Turkentine explains.

F

ew sporting world champions have won their medals while smoking a pipe, but David Bryant CBE did just that as he claimed three world outdoor bowls singles titles and three world indoors titles between 1966 and 1988.

A four times Commonwealth Games singles gold medallist, he is generally considered to be the greatest lawn bowler England has ever

David Bryant produced, winning 19 world and Commonwealth gold medals in total.

I have recently acquired a book written by Bryant, who died in August 2020 aged 88.

It was written in 1990 and although many of the technical issues are similar to today and treated much the same by players and coaches the world over, one phase struck me that was totally out of step with bowls today.

In 1990 Bryant wrote: “…Unfortunately, these days a lot of clubs have a full membership,

that is simply a sign that the game is gaining in popularity.” He goes on to comment on how to deal with the waiting lists that most clubs have.

Today, clubs are no longer in that fortunate position; some are even fighting for survival.

However, there are real signs that the game is coming back and gaining in popularity, but the membership is still low, not helped by events during the Covid­19 lockdown, which resulted in the closing of a number of clubs nationally.

However, there is a fresh resurgence of interest in the game although, unfortunately, not as it was 50 years ago.

There are places at every club, and you will be welcome to join.

We are now just a short few weeks away from starting the outdoor bowling season, something I have been looking forward to since last season closed!

Throughout the area there are many clubs which are preparing for their open days. They will be welcoming newcomers from their local area into their club for a taster session. They will introduce new bowlers to the fun and skill of bowling on freshly­cut grass; something that has been inbred in our nation for hundreds of years.

The greens, gardens and hedges surrounding the sites are receiving their final dressing, being trimmed ready for that late April new season open day. Club members are currently working to spring clean the clubhouse, stores are being sorted and a general spruce­up is underway ready for the new season. The open day at most clubs is an important event as it is a chance to attract new members, invite them to try and, hopefully, embrace what a great game it is.

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29 Throughout the country many clubs are participating in Bowls England’s ‘Big Weekend’. This is a national initiative to make the game more attractive to a wider audience.

Clubs will be opening their doors to the public during that weekend, which runs from 24th to the 27th of May. It is another great opportunity to try a game that gives you access to fresh air and gentle exercise, which embraces all ages and all abilities.

Details of all participating clubs can be found on the Bowls England website https://www.bowlsengland.com Don’t forget that the indoor bowling arenas remain open and welcome new players throughout the summer if you prefer the ‘indoor life’, which can get hot, but you will always remain dry!

As a newly­qualified coach, I should explain what you may experience if you join a club.

Yes, we all want you to enjoy playing the game, but to do that, certain basic information needs to be shared with the new bowler – the fundamentals. The coaching sessions will follow a similar pattern offering an introduction to the equipment and terms used when playing lawn bowls, with the opportunity to play a short introductory game, following up with a club day or evening, which is known as a roll­up, where new and experience players come together for a sociable time and a chance to develop their game.

So, who can play this game? Clubs will, and do, welcome all­comers. I have helped with Herts Youth seven to 18 year old youngsters, coached freshly retired couples, middle­aged competitive sportspersons, and worked with disabled individuals.

In short, all are welcome, and all can play the game.

I look forward to welcoming you to the green.

I have listed a few of the outdoor clubs which have open days and events in the coming weeks. Don’t hesitate to contact your club or clubs of choice and get down and bowl...

CLUBS AND DATES Batchwood Hall Bowling Club Saturday 20th April 2pm ­ 5pm Sunday 21st April 2pm ­ 5pm Sunday 19th May 2pm ­ 5pm Berkhamsted Bowls Club Sunday 28th April 2pm ­ 6pm Friday 24th May 6pm ­ 9pm Harpenden Bowling Club Sunday 28th April 2pm ­ 5pm Tuesday 30th April 5pm ­ 7.30pm Harperbury Bowls Club Saturday 20th April 10am ­ 3.30 pm Little Gaddesden Bowls Club Saturday 27th April 2pm Potten End Bowls Club Sunday 5th May Check with club for times Redbourn Bowls Club Contact website for details St Albans Bowling Club (Clarence Park) Saturday 11th May Check with club for times Townsend Bowling Club Saturday 20th April Check with club for times Please contact the clubs to confirm their open days over the Bowls England ‘Big Weekend’.

John Turkentine is a CoachBowls Level One Coach at Harpenden & District Indoor and Batchwood Hall Outdoor Bowling Clubs. He can be contacted at jt0740@gmail.com

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30

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Last journeys on the Nickey Line

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he last scheduled official passenger train ran on June 16th 1947, but from the 1950s until the 1970s there were special passenger excursions organised by the Locomotive Club of Great Britain. Their signboard (visible on the front of a Hemelite locomotive) is now in the Redbourn Museum.

The Hemelite company continued to use the line to transport ash from power stations to their block making plant at Cupid Green. The last Hemelite train to run was on June 28th 1979. For a short while ash was still transported by road to Redbourn and then by train to Hemelite, but this was stopped due to the poor condition of the track.

The train track were finally removed in 1982 and the route turned into a walking and cycling path.

The museum is open on Saturday and Sunday, 2pm to 5pm, from February to November.

Courtesy of Redbourn Village Museum.

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S W H G N I M R A W I E A M E T S T F O S R T B U L B D S R K W I I R E M A E G U O I S K M A Y I E G W N M D Q L S D R S E K I B P R N O P Y Y M J U N E A A W A K E Q E U N D I E E S W E E T E U B N L R A N E W S B T E Y C S G I W T H A W E The theme for this issue’s Wordsearch puzzle is Spring

Across 9 Corpulent (5) 10 Extreme surprise (9) 11 Souvenir (5) 12 Inherent (9) 13 Possess (3) 14 Hebrew minor prophet (5) 15 Eg, wine goblets (9) 16 Bush (5) 18 Double birdie (5) 22 Large mass of sliding snow (9) 25 Renounce (5) 27 Open mesh fabric (3) 28 Staff (9) 29 Mistaken (5) 30 Weaken insidiously (9) 31 Passageway (5) Down 1 Highest singing voice in women (7) 2 Affluence (6) 3 Recent arrival (8) 4 Phrase (6) 5 Book end, perhaps (4,4) 6 Exceptional intellect (6) 7 Convince (8) 8 Adhesive label (7) 16 Frenzied rush (8) 17 Single­celled organisms (8) 19 Conceal with decorative paper (4,4) 20 Neither solid nor liquid (7) 21 Abrade (7) 23 Part of a group (6) 24 Followed (6) 26 Cardiff International Airport (6)

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‘Poor maintenance to blame for potholes, not traffic density or climate change’ The article in our last edition – Potholes: the big, the bad and the ugly... – prompted an interesting response from Flamstead resident Paul McMahon.

“Data from https://roadtraffic.dft.gov.uk/local­ authorities/78 – see below – shows that road traffic densities in 2022 were lower than 2016 and that over the past decade road traffic density had increased by around 15 per cent.

However, the significant reduction in traffic during the two years of the pandemic means that overall road usage over the past decade is probably no worse than that of the previous decade.

“What has happened over the past decade, which was not suggested in the article as a reason, is that with the increase in the number of electric vehicles from zero to

around seven per cent of the rolling stock, the average weight of cars on the road has increased, although it is still probably within that of the numerous small trucks and lorries that drive around our roads and for which the roads are designed.

“This suggests that the changes in traffic density are not a major contributor to the increase in the number of potholes we see in

our roads. Traffic using the roads without doubt contributes to the wear and tear, but I don’t believe it is reason for the increase in potholes that we are seeing, and the available evidence suggests that it is no worse now than it was 20 or more years ago.

“Regarding climate change. Yes, our climate is changing but again the evidence suggests that the cited increase in rain and freeze/thaw cycles as the prime cause of the increase in potholes is not apparent from the available evidence.

“Cold weather conditions and the resulting freeze/thaw cycles undoubtedly contribute to the means by which the road structure is destroyed, but the increases in average temperatures over the past 50 years or so suggest it is probably not the primary cause of the increase in the number of potholes.

“In my opinion, the principle cause of the rapid deterioration of our roads is not traffic density or climate change but the lack of proper funding to allow local government to do its job properly. To suggest that other factors are the cause of the increasing number of potholes that we see on the roads is just sticking our heads in the sand.

“There is an old saying, ‘A stitch in time saves nine’. The roads have deteriorated to such a state that it will now cost significantly more to repair them than it would have done to maintain the properly.”

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35 Markyate Care Group Help Line – 07972 152279 Care Bus – Sue and Malcolm Davies – 01582 840554 Markyate Singers are back every Thursday7.30‐9.30pm 8-9.30pm at the meet every Wednesday at YK2 Hall Cavendish Rd! the village hall.

UTIfSRQP ECAMGK SNMLO SKOJGK SQPFcan SFEOhold SEQPDO SCGBSyou SDMGKSDQGKtoS youSTOON enjoy singing and a tune areSCwelcome @MFE CSTCGFCD?= join Sour friendlyST<MOGBNR group. SK<QP;:SFEOGS;NOCDOS=Q9OSCGBS8QMGSPD7S 6AO<RQGO SMDS@ON=Q9O SQTSCNN SCKOD7 SSUFS<OCNNRSBQODG5FS9C4O<S We sing for fun but also enjoy a challenge! @OFEO< OAOGMGK3details.

SRQPLin S=CGon SDMGK SQ<SGQF:SMFSMDSCifSNQAONR SDQ=MCNSfurther Please call 07969322726 you require

Slip End Tennis Club 2S1OSC<OSCSD9CNN:ST<MOGBNRS=NP0SQ;OGSFQSCNNS ages. Membership enquiries: Steve Lyons (01582 414162) Coaching enquiries: Sally Parry (07979 433688) Gardening Club:S1OSC<OSCSD9CNN:ST<MOGBNRS=NP0S@EM=ES9OOFDS /AOS?9ODS;O<SROC<: <:S.;9S,NM;S6GBS+MNNCKOS*CNN3SS)PODFSD;OCLO<DS QGSKC<BOGMGKSFQ;M=DSC<OS0QQLOBSTQ<S9OO?GKD3SS1OSQ<KCGMDOS FEOS+MNNCKOS(;OGS)C<BOGD5S'CRSCGBS&NCGFS,CNOSMGSCNFO<GCFOS years. Enquiries to Rosemary Wickens 01582 423622.

Flamstead Computer Friendly Drop-in – for free and friendly help for RQP<S=Q9;PFO<: <:SFC0NOFSQ<SD9C<F;EQGO3SS%M<DFS1OBGODBCRSQTS FEOS9QGFESCFSFEOS,;Q4OBS'QK:S%NC9DFOCBS$#"!#2$ "!#3 (P<S=QGFC=FSBOFCMND"S( =OS#$ S $ ! : www.computerfriendlystalbans.org.uk

Caddington Caddington and Slip End Runners S%<QGFS,F<OOF:S,NM;S6GBS 8pm Call 07587 189260 CaddingtonCare Good Neighbour Scheme CBBMGKFQG C<OS=QG?GPODSFQS<PGSMFDS=Q<OSDO<AM=OSS QGBCR2 Friday between 9am and 4.30pm. Please call 07548 264672.

The Library in Caddington,SEONBSMGSFEOS NNQF9OGFS*PFSQ S Folly Lane reopened on Thursday 5th August and runs from 10 am to 12 noon on alternate Thursdays. There is a large DONO=?QGSQTS0QQLDSCGBS8MKDC@D3S Q OO:SFOCSCGBS0MD=PMFDSC<OS also available.

Caddington W.I. Now meet 1st Tuesday of each month at 7.30 pm at the Caddington Sports and Social Club. Call Linda Edwards 01582 737036. We do a small amount of business followed by some OGFO<FCMG9OGFSQ<SCSD;OCLO<3SS,Q9O?9ODSCS PM S0PFSCN@CRDSCS =P;SQTSFOCSQ<S=Q OOSCGBS=CLODSFQSOG8QR3S'QS8QMGSPDS2S@OSNQQLS forward to it.

Caddington Local History Group We meet on the ffo ourth Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm MGSFEOS*OCFE/ONBS OGF<O3 OGF<O S QGFC=FS QEGS# !.!

Tai Chi QGDS$3!#;9S S1OBDS ;9SS QGFC=FS E<MD?GOS# . # $ !.

12.30pm Chair Yoga Wednesdays 1.30pm Beginners YYo oga Debbie 07948804031 CADS MDSCGSC9CFOP<SB<C9C?=DSK<QP;SFECFS9OOFDSOAO<RS PODBCRST<Q9S.3##2 3!#S;9SCFSFEOS*OCFE/ONBS OGF<O:S Caddington. We are a friendly bunch and welcome new 9O90O<DS0QFESQGDFCKOSCGBSQ 3 3S

Kensworth Village Hall:SQ S EOS EMNFO<GD:S Q99QGS QCB:S S! S2S Sylvia Inns 07831 538682 Basils Farm Cafe feSCFSFEOS+MNNCKOS*CNNS2S%<MBCRS9Q<GMGKD3SS CNNS 07940 738383 Kensworth Art ClubS2S PODS$;92 ;9SCFSFEOS+MNNCKOS*CNNS@MFES

Sonia Aldridge 01582 872115 Dog Training CFSFEOS+MNNCKOS*CNN ;9S2S$#;9S1OBSOAODS@MFES&CFS)<OKQ<RRS#$ . S. ! $ SQ<S email patgregory2023@gmail.com Millie DanceSpaceSCFSFEOS+MNNCKOS*CNN Tues 4.15 onwards with 30 min group classes. c Ballet to street dance. Email millie.dancespace@ @gmail.com 07429 120383

SS Kensworth Drop-In CSFEOS+MNNCKOS*CNN3SS C92$$C93 OAO<CKOD:S0MD=PMFDSCGBS=ECF3SS69CMNS8QCCG9Q<CG RCEQQ3 co.uk Friday morning snack and chat3SS*Q9OO9CBOSDQP;:SDCPDCKOS <QNND:S0MD=PMFDSCGBSGC4O<SMGSFEOS+MNNCKOS*CNN3 * Baby and To Toddler Group 2S OGGRS# $ S # # SQ<S/GBSPDSQGS %C=O0QQL3SS OOFS1OBDS 3!#C9S2S$$3##CC9:SFO<9S?9OSQGNRSMGS FEOS+MNNCKOS*CNN3SS STQ<SFEOS/<DFS=EMNBSCG GBS $STQ TQ<SOC=ESDM0NMGK3 Neighbourhood Watch – Caroline Streeek 872410 Cricket ClubS S'PG=CGS1MGK/ONBS. !

Parish Council – Pat Mitchell 871178 Community Scheme – 07919 081473 Local History S PNMCS*QNBO<S. !

S Studham FFriends of Studham Common S website www.fo See foscomm.org S Studham Village HallS2S CMGSECNNSCGBSCS9OO?GKS<QQ9S C CACMNC0NO TQ<SEM<O3S QBO<GSLMF=EOG3S =? ?AM?ODSMG=NPBOS <FS STQ

NP0: C0NOS O OGGMD:S S MGKQ:S C<;OFS Q@ND:S,=<C00NO:S,OOGMQ<DS C 1 1Q9OG5D QKC3S QGFC=F"S'ODS,CN9QG:S#$ . S SUGD?FPFOS 1U S Q 8 872082 desstudham@btconnect.com Tennis ClubS S(;OGSFQS9O90O<DSCGBSGQ QG29O90O<D3SS

NNS@ON=Q9O3SS QGFC=FS GB<O@S QGODS G GB<O@38QGOD eexpressvending.co.uk 07833 111682 S www.studhamtennisclub.co.uk See N Neighbourhood Watch – Richard Hodgge 01582 873630

, ,FPBEC9 S+MNNCKOS*CNNS2S PODBCRDS 3!#S2S$$3!#:T<MOGBNRSK<QP;3

W Whipsnade Parish Counc cil OGS%<CG=OS#$ . S. ! S+MNNCKOS*CNNS S,C9S P<<SS# $S

7 761730

R Redbourn R Redbourn u3a meets every month in th he village hall and @MFE @ S9Q<OSFECGS SUGFO<ODFS)<QP;D:SFEOO<OSMDSDQ9OFEMGKSTQ<S OAO<RQGO O SMGSFEOM<SFEM<BSCKOSCGBSGQSNQGKKO<S@Q<LMGKSTPNN2?9O3S %Q< % S9Q<OSMGTQ<9C?QGSAMDMFSQP<S@O0DMFOSCFSE4;" P!CDMFOD3Q<K3 PL OB0QP<G: P SO9CMNSQP<S9O90O<DEM;SDDO=<OFC<RSCF r redbournu3amembership@gmail.com or speak to the chair on 07956 400493 Tennis at Redbourn ClubS2S QMGSQP<ST<MOOGBNRS=NP0SQ S Q<FES nnual membership fee Common in the heart of the village. villag An OOG?FNODS;NCRSCNNSROC<S<QPGB3S O@SOCDRSFFQSPDOS=QP<FS0QQLMGKS DDRDFO93S Q<OSBOFCMNDSQGSGO@S@O0DMFOS2S=NP0D;C<L3NFC3Q<K3PL RedbournTTeennisClub R Redbourn Community Group )SAQNPGFOO<DSQ O<SF<CGD;Q<FSFQS9OBM=CNSC;;QMGF9OGFD:S Q QP?GKD SMGSFEOS9MGM0PD:S;<C=?=CNSEON;SDDP=ESCDSDEQ;;MGKS C S;<OD=<M;?QGSBONMAO<MOD:ST<MOGBNRSFCNNLDSCGBS@CNLD:SCGBS CGB packs for new residents. welcome w Call 01582 794550 or email: info fo@redb bourncg.org.

More volunteers are always welcome.

Redbourn Bowls Club always welcomees new members. If

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36

you JIHGwould FIHEDGlike ECBAGmore @I?AGdetails, DA>=CE<;Gplease :EA=<AGcontact 9I8>=9>Gour IH?GChairperson 76=C?:A?<I8;G Shirley Brooke, 5=?4=?A> G3=2C<;on GI807866 G10/.,149891, G+**1+/;email GA@=CE)shirleyhagart@ G@=?4=?A(D=2C<' hotmail.com, or Jez Cronshaw, Coach, at 07525 867450.

GI?G%A$ G7?I8<6=F; G=>G1+/,/ G.#+!/1& 2C?4C8@ADC=&9I@ F;G7I=96; Redbourn Community Library - open 6 days a week in IH?G:H?:I<A HCE>G9A8>?AG A<CDAG>6AG C?AG >= I8GI A?C84G 4?A=>G?A=D<G I?G=DHE><G=8DG96CED?A8;G:H EC9G9I@:H>A?<;GG :6I>I9I:JC84G=8DG<9=88C84G =9CEC A<G=8DG ?AAGFC &G G JIHGFIHEDGECBAG>IGB8IFG@I?AG= IH>G IC8C84GIH?G>A=@GI G 2IEH8>AA?<;G:I:GC8G=8DG<AAGH<;G9I8>=9>GH<G2C=GIH?G =9A IIBG page or email redbournlibraryvolunteers@gmail.com Redbourn Players i<G=8G=9 2AG=@=>AH?GD?=@= 9G<I9CA>JG :A? I?@C84G>FIG@= I?G:?IDH9 I8<GA2A?JGJA=?GC8G :?C84G=8DG Autumn as well as other local drama events.

AG=?AG=EF=J<GEIIBC84G I?G8AFG@A@ A?<GI G=EEG=4A<;GF6A>6A?G JIHGF=8>G>IG=9>;G6AE:G =9B<>=4A;G HCEDG<A><;G@=BAG9I<>H@A<;G paint scenery or help with publicity.

If Gyou JIHGare =?AGinterested, C8>A?A<>AD;Gor I?Gjust H<>Gwant F=8>Gto >IGfind 8DGout IH>Gmore, @I?A;Gplease :EA=<AG email redbourn.players@gmail.com details.or email contact our Secretary Pauline (07771for 931086) redbourn.players@gmail.com for details.

Redbourn Village Museum Silk Mill House The Common Redbourn Herts Herts. AL3 7NB Patron: Sir Simon Bowes Lyon Museum open February to November Saturday & Sunday 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Last admission 4:30pm Tel: 01582 793397 @=CE)G?AD IH?8@H<AH@'4@=CE&9I@G C<C>GH<GI8G>6AGFA G=>) www.redbournmuseum.org +*)('&%$#"$#! '' # '% & &% # ' "* IEDG F=?DGFC88A?GC8G 84EC=GC8G EII@G,1,,& A<CDA<G:E=8 84G<96A@A<G>IGA86=89AG>6AG2CEE=4A;GFAG 6=2AG=EE GJA=? ?IH8DG=9 2C A<GC89EHDC84G>=EB<;G>?C:<;G I9=EG F=?D<;G H>H@8G 6IFG=8DG7?= G =C?& ?&G AFG@A@ A?<G=8DG 2IEH8>AA?<G=EF=J<GFAE9I@A&G%IC8G2C=GIH?GFA <C>A;GFFF& redbourninbloom.org.uk db bl k or contact Hilary l Brown on 01582 +* +#!;GA@=CEG?C @A@ A?<6C:'4@=CE&9I@GG IG2IEH8>AA?; ?;G :EA=<AG9I8>=9>G 88G3=2C<;G10/.,G+*,/0.; email ribhelpers@yahoo.com

Queen of Herts 71 High St, Redbourn *# &**$#' # *% #" # *# *% * # *$&*# '# ' )# your Christmas party or family get together. With rooms from just £50 hire and a range of food choices for your gathering with a fully licensed bar - you’ll be booking to come back *# $)# *# "$ '$ #"$ ' * &**$' *% ' & to discuss your requirements with our management team.

Tel: 07359 538454 Te

Harpenden Kinsbourne Green WI Meet 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm in St Mary’s 76H?96G =EEG C8< IH?8AG ?AA8& Email secretarykgwi@gmail.com ffo or details.

Gaddesden Row ')) *%# %'& ' **# '%$"$ . '%$"$ Takes place at the =DDA<DA8G IFG CEE=4AG =EEG 7EA@A8><G 8DG I=D;G =DDA<DA8G IF; F;G ,G# GA2A?JG AD8A<D=J; J;G ?I@G*& 1=@G H8 EG00& 1=@&G =?A8>< 9=?A?<G=8DG>IDDEA?< = CA<G:EH<G =8JI8AGAE<AG>6=>G@C46>G H<>G =89JG=G9H::=G=8DG=G96=>G G=EEG welcome. =?A8> 9=?A?G:EH<GI8AG96CEDG G G=DDC I8=EG96CED?A8G/1:G A=96&G7I AA >A=G=8DG C<9HC><G:?I2CDADG:EH<G=G<8=9BG I?G>6AG children.

Redbourn meets at your 7.30pmlocal on the second To WI include group or Wednesday of each month at Redbourn $' Hall.'%Upcoming %' meetings #* *$ #include '$# * *# * # Village ‘Crafting – Springplease Flowers’ (April) and contact‘AGM us & Games Night Social’ (May). For further information on#07852 #" #Beth *%*call $'#Bradley % * '%# 452303. " # *% " *

Caddington Gardening Club is a friendly group, meeting monthly March to December to share our gardening interests, successes, the odd failure, swop ideas and pass on advice. We have guest speakers at meetings, an annual plant sale, social events and summer trips to fascinating gardens.

More details from Sarah 01582 419793 or Thelma 01582 484496.

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Kensworth Flower & Vegetable Show Dates for your diary 21st June – Quiz Night with Dave Henderson 7.30pm in Kensworth Village Hall 7th September – Annual Show Please contact David Manton for further information 01438 831184 or David.manton@aol.co.uk

Caddington Allotments Plant Sale

10am to 1pm, Saturday 18th May 2024 at The Hut, Folly Lane, Caddington We will have a wide selection of plants for sale on the day, with refreshments available as well.

Studham WI are very excited to welcome Frances Carlaw – the Pearl Lady – to their April meeting on Thursday 4th April, 7.30pm in Studham Village Hall.

Frances gives a fantastic and engaging talk that shares her lifelong love of pearls, and brings along her vast selection of beautiful handmade jewellery for purchase.

A fabulous and enjoyable night, you won’t be disappointed.

All visitors welcome: Ladies – free entry. Gentlemen – £4.

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38 ST GEORGE’S FUN DAY SUNDAY 21st APRIL 11am until 4pm HEATHFIELD CENTRE CADDINGTON LU1 4HF COME ALONG TO CELEBRATE ENGLAND’S PATRON SAINT’S DAY THERE WILL BE LOTS OF STALLS, TOMBOLA, ENTERTAINMENTS, ARCHERY, BIRDS OF PREY, TRAIN RIDES, BRITISH MOTORCYCLES, FACE PAINTING & MANY MORE FUN THINGS TO DO Also, bring along your dog to take part in

THE DOG SHOW

Booking­in for dogs starts at 12 noon and the show starts at 2pm

DELICIOUS FOOD SERVED ALL DAY Something for the whole family to enjoy

FREE ENTRY Our charity this year is Noah, which supports the homeless in Luton

Every Friday during school term times we offer a fun and engaging rhyme time, filled with singing, puppets, smiles, and fun!

CADDINGTON CAR MEET

Caddington Baptist Church Luton Road LU1 4AF Coffee mornings on the 2nd Tuesday of each month 10.30am ­ 12 noon

We are gathering at the Caddington Sports & Social Club Car Park LU1 4HH on Wednesday April 3rd at 7pm Socialise with like‐minded car enthusiasts

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LOCAL TRADESPEOPE Why not advertise in this magazine Visit www.mimagazine.co.uk to book online or email paul­jacques @ntlworld.com

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Caddington Pre‐School Caddington Pre‐School is a small voluntary pre‐school on the site of Caddington Village School, offering places to children from the age of two years old. We are open term time only from 8.45am until 3.30pm; offering morning sessions, morning with lunch sessions, full‐day sessions with an after pre‐school session.

We offer two‐year funded sessions, three and four‐year universal (15 hours) and extended sessions (30 hours). To receive a funded space for the summer term parents must apply and receive their code by 31st March 2024 / for an autumn funded place parents must apply and receive their code by 31st August 2024. Two‐year funding and extended funding for three and four‐year‐olds can be applied for via the Government website. Please see www.childcarechoices.gov.uk for all financial support for childcare.

If you are interested in a place at Caddington Pre‐School please contact us for a visit. caddingtonpreschoolmanager@gmail.com/07719 080377

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Local business? Want more local customers?

Advertise in MiMagazine Visit www.mimagazine.co.uk or email paul‐jacques@ntlworld.com

22

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To arrange a free initial • INVESTMENTS meeting contact: Other services include: The value of investments and • MORTGAGES • INVESTMENTS pensions and the income they • PERSONAL LIFE COVER • MORTGAGES produce can fall as well as rise.

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