Life in Harpenden in WW1...
In the Duisans British Cemetery in the French commune of Etrun you will find the grave of Thomas Luxon, one of the many of Harpenden’s young men who joined the Army and went off to fight in World War 1 and, sadly, did not return. A private in the Norfolk Regiment 7th Battalion, he was wounded in the abdomen on April 28, 1917, and died the next day, aged 20, in France.
The Rector wrote in the Parish Magazine in June 1917: “The Roll of honour has been lengthened... Thomas O Luxon, an old choir boy and afterwards bell ringer at the Parish Church, has laid down his young life. He was a very gentle, lovable lad, and his death has caused many sad hearts…”
When war was declared on August 4, 1914, Harpenden became an important training ground for thousands of troops; more than 4,000 soldiers were billeted there, with cows strolling past machine guns and searchlights on Harpenden Common.
And ready to support, the ladies of Harpenden volunteered for the Voluntary Aid Detachment, were trained by local St John’s Ambulance and served in the town’s first hospital. It was initially located in the grounds of Rothamsted Park under tents before finally taking over a large house at 38 Milton Road where it became known as the Rosemary Hospital.
Fascinating stories such as this can be found in a special exhibition at Harpenden Museum, running from February until April, where you can discover what life was like in Harpenden during World War 1, when the population in 1914 was only 6,000. Did you know, for example, that Scouts played a vital role in entertaining the injured and convalescing troops, travelling between hospitals and performing in what became the foundation for the still very successful annual Gang Show.
For more details on this special exhibition visit https://www.harpenden‐history.org.uk/
Paul Jacques Editor pauljacques@ntlworld.com 07939 005218
Every paw and claw accounted for...
Every animal, from mammals and birds to fish and invertebrates, is being counted in Whipsnade Zoo’s Annual Stocktake, as the zookeepers kick off
ZSL’s – the zoo’s international conservation charity – 200th anniversary. With 2025 proving to be a bumper year for births at the zoo, the count features precious additions to global conservation breeding programmes – the most recent being a newborn Southern white rhino calf (pictured), born on New Year’s Eve. The baby boy, who is yet to be named, was born to mum Jaseera and dad Sizzle and brings the conservation zoo’s total to ten white rhinos.
MiMagazine chats with... John Turkentine
John Turkentine is a qualified bowls coach and lives in Redbourn with his wife, Jenny. A ‘Suffolk lad’, he worked in most forms of construction management for more than 50 years. He has three children and now four grandchildren, with another soon to arrive!
What inspired you to take up bowls? Rather than what, it was who. The who was the late David Bryant, he was world champion at all forms of the game. Ever since watching him on the TV back in the 70s and 80s I wanted to emulate him, but time was not on my side, only joining a club nine years ago – I left it too late, as do many others.
What does your current role involve? I coach at Harpenden & District Indoor Bowling Club (HDIBC) as well as Batchwood Hall BC and support the Hertfordshire Bowling Coaching Society (HBCS). It keeps me very busy. I took up bowls coaching seven years ago, due to a need for coaches at HDIBC. I put up my hand to take the course and became totally enveloped by the game and its environments. The role is one of assisting either new or impaired bowlers to learn the ropes enough to integrate within the club with more experienced players. Helping others to enjoy this fascinating game gives me a lot of satisfaction. I also work with HBCS to develop skills in clubs throughout the county and help with junior development within the county at Riverain BC. I’m a keen supporter of the recruitment of new bowlers at both clubs. We are always ready to accept and encourage new members.
Most memorable moment in bowls? Passing my CoachBowls level 2 assessment practical at Chelmsford after weeks of study and roleplay.
What was your first job? Trainee surveyor for a small building and civil engineering company in Suffolk.
Any hobbies or pastimes? I like reading (a freshly awakened pleasure, overlooked for too long). I enjoy taking long walks and gardens (mine and visiting others). I’m a member of the RHS and the Rose Society.
Book you most enjoyed or that inspired you? Rather than a book it would be the author PG Wodehouse. His humour, particularly in the Jeeves and Wooster stories, captivated me and still does.
Film/TV Show you most enjoyed? Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid would be the film, every aspect of it especially Burt Bacharach’s musical score. TV shows would be any with Ronnie Barker, and Dad’s Army!
Favourite drink? It must be a decent cuppa; strong builders’ tea.
Favourite meal? I was asked this recently and to my surprise a meal I had when celebrating my 18th birthday came to mind straight away. I can only remember the main course; it was hollowed out pineapple filled to the top with a creamy chicken curry, no idea what it was called but that’s top of a long list!
Best holiday or weekend break? Early trips to Cornwall and the Gower with the kids, when sun, sea and sand was all we needed. We also spent three weeks in a Winnebago touring Western Canada and the Rockies –which came close!
If you could invite any four people to a dinner party, who would they be? Top of that list would be the late Northern Irish international and Wolves centre forward, Derek Dougan – ‘The Doog’, my boyhood football hero; Rachael Heyhoe Flint, England women’s cricket captain and Wolverhampton Wanders FC ambassador, she was always promoting the women’s game even when she became Baroness Flint; Michael Parkinson, ‘Parky’, his latenight TV interviews still outstrip any that are on screen today – what stories he would tell; and, of course, David Bryant!
Has Your Double Glazi Steamed Up?
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Sustainable landscaping: Making practical choices that last
For many of us, the garden is more than just a patch of green. It’s where we relax after a long day, where children and pets play, and where we spend time with friends when the weather allows. Over the years, one question I’m asked more and more is how to look after a garden in a way that’s better for the environment, without it becoming complicated or expensive.
In reality, sustainable landscaping is usually about simple, practical choices. It’s about working with local conditions rather than fighting against them, choosing plants that suit the soil and climate, and building features properly so they last. Gardens designed this way tend to be easier to maintain and look better year after year.
Early spring is an ideal time to assess your garden. With plants only just starting to grow, it’s much easier to see what’s coped well over winter and
what hasn’t. Issues such as poor drainage, compacted soil, or tired planting often become apparent now. Planning changes at this stage means you can prepare properly, rather than rushing fixes later in the season.
Working locally has taught me just how much gardens can vary, even a few miles apart. Soil, drainage and exposure all play a part, and choosing the right plants for the right place makes a huge difference. Plants that belong where they’re planted need less watering, less feeding and generally look healthier.
Sustainable gardens don’t have to be complicated. With a bit of thought and good planning, they can be practical, wildlifefriendly and enjoyable spaces that really stand the test of time.
Andy’s Landscape Gardening Informal chat: 07484 143719
Email: andyslg@outlook.com
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Why do I need a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?
If you lose mental capacity through illness (for example a stroke, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease), or an accident, and haven’t created an LPA:
• You will no longer be able to choose who makes decisions and act for you (such as your spouse and children). You can only make your LPA while you still have mental capacity.
• A stranger appointed by the court such as a solicitor would end up making crucial decisions about you and your assets – where you will live, whether to accept medical treatment to keep you alive, what you eat and wear, and will control all your finances and your property.
• Your spouse, children or friends would have to apply to court to get
permission to make decisions on your behalf and act for you – which is far more expensive and timeconsuming than making an LPA and the court could refuse the application.
If you still have mental capacity, LPAs are a simple, inexpensive, and legally robust way of giving someone you trust the power to make decisions and act for you – either temporarily or long term should you lose capacity in the future.
To plan for this, you must create an LPA now whilst you still have mental capacity and so make things much easier for other people in your life.
Westminster Law are specialists in organising this.
Five ways to maximise tax year-end planning opportunities 2025/26
Smart financial moves to consider before the tax year ends on 5 April 2026
As the 2025/26 tax year-end approaches on 5 April 2026, now is the time to review your finances to ensure you’ve maximised all available allowances and reliefs.
Tax yearend planning can help you save money, improve your longterm investments, and make better use of government incentives before they reset in April. Here are five key areas to consider before the deadline.
1. Make the most of your ISA allowance
Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) remain some of the most effective methods to protect your money from tax. For the 2025/26 and 2026/27 tax years, the annual allowance is £20,000. Any returns earned from an ISA are completely free from Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax. You can allocate your allowance among different types of ISAs, such as cash, stocks and shares, or innovative finance, or use it all in one. The key is to act before 5 April 2026, as unused allowances cannot be carried forward. When the new tax year begins on 6 April, your allowance resets, offering a fresh opportunity to save or invest taxfree.
2. Boost your pension contributions
Pensions remain one of the most taxefficient ways to save. In the 2025/26 tax year, you can contribute up to £60,000 annually or 100% of your earnings, whichever is lower. The annual allowance includes all contributions, such as those from your employer. However, the 100% earnings limit applies only to personal contributions that qualify for tax relief. Contributions benefit from tax relief at your highest marginal rate, meaning every £80 contributed by a basicrate taxpayer effectively becomes £100 in their pension fund. Higher and additionalrate taxpayers can claim further relief through selfassessment, but only on contributions matched by income taxed at those rates.
If you have unused allowances from the past three tax years, you could use the ‘carry forward’ rule to make larger contributions. Even those who are not earning can contribute up to £2,880 each year, with the government adding £720 in tax relief. Boosting your pension contributions before the
end of the tax year can lower your taxable income and enhance your longterm retirement savings.
3. Use your personal allowance wisely Everyone has a personal allowance, currently £12,570, which is the amount you can earn each year without paying tax. Married couples and registered civil partners can also benefit from the Marriage Allowance, which allows a nontaxpayer to transfer a fixed £1,260 of their personal allowance to a partner who pays basicrate tax. This could save up to £252 in the 2025/26 tax year, and claims can be made retrospectively for up to four years.
If one partner pays less or no tax, and if appropriate, you might think about holding savings or investments in their name to reduce overall tax liabilities. Remember that unused personal allowances cannot be carried forward, so careful planning can help maximise the use of both partners’ allowances each year.
4. Review your Inheritance Tax position Inheritance Tax (IHT) is levied at 40% on estates exceeding £325,000, a threshold that remains unchanged until April 2030. An additional £175,000 residence nilrate band applies if you pass on your home to direct descendants. You can reduce future IHT liabilities by making gifts during your lifetime. Everyone has an annual gifting allowance of £3,000, which can be carried forward for one year if unused, along with the
ability to give unlimited small gifts of up to £250 per person. Larger gifts may also be exempt if you live for at least seven years after making them. Regular gifts made from surplus income, such as paying a grandchild’s school fees, can also fall outside your estate if structured correctly. Reviewing your estate plans annually ensures you are maximising these allowances.
5.Manage your capital gains
If you hold investments outside of tax wrappers, consider reviewing them before the end of the tax year. The Capital Gains Tax (CGT) annual exempt amount is £3,000 (a maximum of £1,500 for trusts) for 2025/26. Gains exceeding this threshold are taxed at 18% for basicrate taxpayers on any gain falling within the basic rate band and 24% for higher and additionalrate taxpayers (or basic rate income tax payers where any gain falls above the basic rate band when added to income).
Couples can transfer assets without tax to optimise both exemptions. Making strategic disposals before 5 April could help realise gains efficiently and reduce potential tax liability in future years.
THIS ARTICLE IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE TAX, LEGAL OR FINANCIAL ADVICE. TAX TREATMENT DEPENDS ON INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES AND MAY CHANGE IN THE FUTURE. A PENSION IS A LONG-TERM 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. INVESTMENTS CAN FALL AS WELL AS RISE IN VALUE, AND YOU MAY GET BACK LESS THAN YOU INVEST.
t: 01582 414514 e: info@capitalmanor.co.uk
Retired major crime detective recognised in King’s New Year Honours List
Aretired Hertfordshire
Constabulary detective from the Major Crime Unit was honoured in the King’s New Year Honours List for her outstanding service to policing.
Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins (pictured right) was awarded the King’s Police Medal (KPM) for her inspirational work.
One of her most notable investigations was Operation Reactivate. This related to the horrific sexual assaults of two teenage girls more than 20 years ago in Harpenden.
The first victim, a 16yearold girl, was walking along Piggottshill Lane on Sunday April 7, 2002, when a man grabbed her, dragged her into a nearby wood and sexually assaulted her before forcing her to perform sexual acts.
Two months later, on Wednesday June 19, a 17yearold girl was walking along Wheathampstead Road, when a man forced her into a car, drove down Piggottshill Lane and took her to the wood where he sexually assaulted her and forced her to perform sexual acts.
Over the previous decade Justine had regularly reviewed the evidence hoping that forensic advances would provide DNA opportunities. When the breakthrough came, a suspect, Alec Housden from Dunstable, was identified following a DNA match. He was subsequently convicted of numerous offences against the two now adult women and jailed for 16 years in December 2023.
Operation Reactivate was showcased in a BBC documentary series and more than two million viewers tuned in to see Justine and her team bring the predatory offender to justice through outstanding determination and resilience.
All the jobs she worked on showcased her commitment to securing positive results for victims and their families while holding those
responsible to account. Often described as one of the “nicest, approachable and committed detectives”, she retired in December after 30 years’ service.
Reflecting on the news of her KPM, Justine said: “I am overwhelmed and delighted with this recognition. I’ve had lots of lovely messages from everyone.
“I received a phone call and an email a few months ago about the award. I was sworn to secrecy, which was pretty difficult to keep, but I did manage it.
“While this is in my name, the teams I have worked with have been awesome and nothing is about one person alone. Thanks to all who have worked with me over the years.”
The KPM is one of the highest awards in policing and is awarded to members of the police service in all four nations of the UK for a specially distinguished record in policespecific services of conspicuous merit.
Justine was named Hertfordshire Police Investigator of the Year in 2024 for her work on the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit. She led more than 40 murder investigations as well as many serious and complex crime investigations.
Chief Constable Andy Prophet said: “I was delighted to hear about Justine’s success in being awarded the KPM in the 2026 New Year Honours list. This is a fantastic achievement for Justine, and is testament to her skill, dedication and leadership as a senior detective in Hertfordshire and major crime for many, many years.
“On behalf of everyone in the constabulary, I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to Justine for her richly deserved recognition.”
Why is your h but your loft i
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Buy Cheap, Buy Twice….
By Melanie Wooding Jones – Redbourn Auto Solutions – Caring for you, and your car
In an uncertain and financially challenging world, we are all feeling the pinch. So, offers to ‘save money’ or ‘buy cheap’, are very appealing, but are they all they claim to be or do they in fact lead to greater expenditure?
According to GoCompare.com, more than half of us have been succumbed to false economy decisions. These range from paying the minimum amount off your credit card to purchasing multibuys! Out of the 20 ranked in their Top 20 Biggest False Economy list, seven are relevant to carrelated issues:
•Buying counterfeit goods (ranked 2, 51%)
•Lying on your insurance application to get a cheaper premium (ranked 3, 48%)
•Not having your car serviced (ranked 5, 45%)
•Comparing only price, not quality (ranked 10, 38%)
•Not having breakdown cover for your car (ranked 11, 33%)
•Buying a cheap car (ranked 13, 27%)
•Doingityourself rather than employing a tradesman (ranked 18, 14%)
We see more than 80 cars a week and have seen many examples where consumers have tried to save money, but where it often leads to higher repair bills as the mistakes are put right and the original issue fixed.
As with anything, where there is an opportunity, there will be someone waiting to take advantage of the situation. Sadly, it is happening with increasing regularity.
Counterfeit parts
This area is growing exponentially: people want to run their cars cheaply, and counterfeiters are only too happy to oblige. Research published last year by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) estimated that
counterfeit vehicle parts imported to the UK were worth almost £2.2 billion in 2021. These parts are unauthorised fake copies and are designed to defraud consumers and businesses. They look genuine but are constructed with vastly inferior materials and manufacturing process, posing significant safety risks. They are not subject to rigorous testing required for genuine products, making them far more likely to fail and cause accidents. There are no safety guarantees, and they put motorists and those around them at risk.
A survey by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) revealed that one in six motorists had bought a counterfeit part in the previous 12 months. Of those who bought a fake part that they thought was genuine, 45% found out through their garage after the part faulted and around 30% became aware the part was fake during routine service checks.
The IPO survey also revealed that the most commonly purchased counterfeit parts are those which pose the most significant safety risks. Of those admitting to buying fakes: 25% purchased car batteries; 23% tyres/wheels; 12% brake pads or discs; and 14% airbags. The survey doesn’t disclose if they were being bought by consumers, mechanics or garages increasing their margins.
The parts industry is unregulated and to offer you the ‘cheapest’ price, a garage or individual may turn to cheaper parts to gain your custom. These are often a false economy, with poor quality, illfitting parts leading to longer labour hours, and can compromise safety. These inferior parts are increasingly available on auction websites and, like many counterfeiters, they are incredibly good copies.
Car servicing
This has been covered at length in previous articles (available on www.RedbournAuto Solutions.com). Unlike the annual MOT, car servicing is not a legal requirement. However, regular servicing is likely to save money in the long run (WhatCar). This is because servicing enables effective maintenance of moving parts, and minor faults to be found long before they develop into more major defects that could cause breakdown or lead to major faults and expensive repairs. If brake pads wear beyond the recommended limits, not only do you impair your stopping distance putting yourself and others at risk, but also face premature replacement of the brake discs, which are costly and avoidable.
A regularly serviced car is less likely to be involved in an accident and is proof that you have taken reasonable steps to protect yourself and other road users. So, should the unexpected happen, your insurance is not invalidated.
An MOT is not the same as a service. An MOT is a visual safety check to ensure the car is roadworthy on that day.
Comparing price not quality
The old saying, “you get what you pay for” is absolutely true here. There are only a few ways garages/mechanics can make a saving in what they are selling you: Labour time or parts. Labour time is reduced with the right skills and knowledge that accurately diagnose issues quickly and effectively. Technicians need to be currently competent, which involves a lot of expensive training. Technicians need to work with mechanics, electrical engineering, computing and even explosives! Couple with this the wide range of
knowledge required within a fastmoving technological background and it becomes obvious why training is crucial.
However, some prefer to save time by cutting corners or, where not currently competent, parts are thrown at the car without testing or diagnosing accurately, leading to repeat visits with similar outcomes.
Working with the latest equipment ensures the technicians can test, repair or replace parts effectively.
Know who you are leaving your car with and make sure they are trustworthy. The motor trade is unlicensed, so anyone can set up as a mechanic or a garage and work on your pride and joy.
Buying a cheap car
If a deal is too good to be true, there is usually a reason for it. Always buy from a reliable source and at the very least ensure you have a warranty. Any car sold from a forecourt comes with a minimum 3month warranty, but if you purchase from an auction or auction site, you have no ability to go back. Buyer beware!
DIY repairs
The DIY/You Tube expert who works on their own car is to be applauded. Even entertaining this idea for most motorists goes way beyond where they feel comfortable. It is not for the fainthearted and if you don’t have the right equipment or knowledge, it is not recommended. Most have a stealthy start and then when it becomes difficult, seek help.
So, is it ever cost‐effective to buy cheap?
Approach anything that is ‘too good to be true’ with caution. It rarely ends up being cheaper. However, there are steps you can take to avoid the higher costs: •Use a mechanic or garage that you trust. Don’t just go by the big names, ask for recommendations and look at their reviews. Look for genuine reviews: Anyone can write a review, including friends, family and those who haven’t even visited… and from numerous accounts! Go and talk to
them and feel comfortable that you can trust them. Don’t listen to hearsay, actually find out for yourself.
•Find a garage where there are senior technicians on site who can deal with complex issues should you have one. Make sure they are trained and competent.
•A good garage will only use parts from established sources, whether direct from the manufacturer or from a wellestablished motor factor. They will source the best deal for you.
•Make sure you understand the pricing structure of any service or repair ensuring comparisons are like for like and that they are using quality parts and there are no hidden costs (some add labour and VAT separately).
•Many have certifications such as Trust My Garage, Which or Trading Standards, but look out for certifications that encourage the garage to upsell their product!
•Always buy a car from a source you trust, preferably from a dealer who will: check the car over for safety before handover and give you at least a 3month warranty. You will also benefit from legal support should anything go wrong.
It’s not just about getting something ‘cheap’, it’s about ensuring your vehicle is safe for you, your family and friends, and those around you. Some garages will help you prioritise repairs to help you spread the cost.
If you are buying cheap, ask yourself what is being compromised? Does the technician have the expertise? Are quality parts being used? Do they have the right equipment to work on your vehicle?
Next time you are on the motorway or travelling to do the shopping, look around at how many cars, vans, lorries you see and how confident would you be that they have all been checked thoroughly and are safe to drive? Make sure yours is – It is the best way to avoid an accident from those who haven’t. Previous articles available on our website
Will Kimberley Garden Services
Harpenden Trust Seniors Fair
The Harpenden Trust is hosting the popular Seniors Fair at the Eric Morecambe Centre in Rothamsted Park, Harpenden, on April 1, from 10.30am to 1pm.
More than 30 exhibitors are expected to attend, including charities, voluntary and commercial organisations offering a range of support, health, medical and welfare services, and social activities of interest to seniors.
Society, will be open during the Seniors Fair. There will be a special exhibition on Harpenden in World War 1.
Entry to the Seniors Fair is free.
Refreshments and cakes will be available (donations to the Rennie Grove Hospice). Come and discover what is available for yourself, a family member, friend or neighbour.
EV charging at home
Harpenden Museum, run by Harpenden & District Local History
Eric Morecambe Centre, Leyton Rd, Rothamsted AL5 2FR
Residents in St Albans District can now apply for a licence to run electric vehicle charging cables through a channel from their home safely across pavements. They can then benefit from domestic energy tariffs, which tend to be significantly cheaper than the cost of using chargers at garages and other commercial outlets.
The pilot scheme will run in the AL1, AL2, AL3, AL4 and AL5 postcodes.
To find out more visit https://www.hertfordshire. gov.uk/services/highways‐roads‐and‐pavements/ changes‐to‐your‐road/cross‐pavement‐channel/cross‐pavement‐channel.aspx
Community news...
Markyate Local History Society’s first talk of 2026 is entitled ‘Eleanor, Her Life, Love & Legacy, The Eleanor Crosses’, on February 5 in The Baptist Hall, Markyate at 7.45pm. Eleanor of Castile, King Edward I’s beloved first wife, died suddenly in Harby, Nottinghamshire, in December 1290. He led her funeral procession some 200 miles to Westminster over many days, including travelling through Markyate. The Eleanor Crosses were elaborate medieval stone monuments, built by the King between 12911294, marking the nightly resting spots of his wife during the journey. In all there were 12 of these, including at Dunstable and St Albans. Today, only three still remain, at Geddington (pictured, courtesy of Wikipedia), Hardingstone near Northampton and Waltham Cross. All are welcome to what promises to be a fascinating talk; £3 for nonmembers, £1 for members, including refreshments.
past years. As is customary at Christmas, tea, coffee and punch (nonalcoholic!) was served with festive eats.
The Society meets on the first Thursday of the month at 7.45pm for 8pm start at The Baptist Hall, Buckwood Road, Markyate, from February to April, usually with an exhibition in May, then a summer break resuming from September to December. For details of meetings see the Facebook page or phone David on 07913 884256.
The Walled Garden Project presents ‘Talks on Monday’ at Luton Hoo Estate. Join them on the last Monday of each month for a fascinating talk on a variety of subjects:
23 February 2026 – Lady Wernher, a widow before, during and after WWI, was supported by invaluable female staff. They were so important that they are celebrated with monuments flanking the Wernher Mausoleum. Talk coincides with International Women’s Day, 8 March.
The Society’s December meeting was a talk by John Mein from St Albans & Hertfordshire Architectural & Archaeological Society entitled ‘From Pint Pot to Coffee Pot, The Temperance Movement in St Albans’. John spoke of the rise of pubs/beer houses in St Albans; 89 in 1870 and the fall to only 64 in 1914, due mainly to Swinford Francis who led the ‘Blue Riband Army’ temperance movement, persuading people to take the pledge. A very interesting talk on a very different subject. The speaker was preceded by a rendition of part of ‘Toad of Toad Hall’, by three former pupils of Redbourn School, who last performed this 60 years ago. The retiring chairman was then presented with a book as a thank you from the Society for holding the reins over the
30 March 2026 – 1900: A new century and a new reign, a time of gaiety and optimism. The talk looks at the ambitious schemes undertaken by Sir Julius Wernher after his purchase of Luton Hoo in 1903 and the subsequent upheavals to the Estate caused by two World Wars.
The mornings begins at 10.30am for tea/coffee and a biscuit, with the talk starting at 11am and ending at 12.30pm. Tickets are £7.50 with single tickets available on the day (notice is required for multiple and group bookings) https://lutonhooestate.co.uk/ event/talks‐on‐monday/
The Christopher Inn, French Row, St Albans.
PICTURE: JON MEIN, JANUARY 2012
Wilding project helps butterfly numbers soar by 350%
The butterfly population of parts of St Albans District has increased by 350 per cent in just three years thanks to a wilding programme.
Forty grassland sites across the District were seeded with wildflowers and mowed only once in the late summer to boost biodiversity.
St Albans City & District Council, Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, Butterfly Conservation, Herts County Council and several other organisations were involved.
Twentythree different species were recorded including the Common Blue (pictured above).
The wilding sites are spread across the District and include Derwent Road Open Space and Alzey Gardens in Harpenden and Lybury Lane, Redbourn.
Several additional sites for the project have been identified and were seeded in the autumn. These include Nicholls Close, Redbourn, and Crabtree Fields, Harpenden.
Butterflies are a key indicator of the health of the environment as they are pollinators and help flowers, fruits and vegetables reproduce. They also
provide a vital food source for birds and other wildlife.
Game for a laugh...
Caddington WI held its annual Christmas Party in December. Members all participated and each person brought a plate for the buffet. There was “a very nice” mulled wine with Carol Jones’ secret recipe and a singsong of some Christmas carols together with a couple of readings.
Members then got down to the “serious part of the party” with silly games and gifts for everyone, including ‘pass the parcel’, and the hilarious ‘left and right game’. In a nutshell, each person has a Christmas gift which they sourced themselves and a narrator reads out a story with a lot of left and right in the narrative. Each time you hear right, you pass to the right and if you hear left, you pass to the left. As you can imagine it’s chaos, but you end up with a gift, although not usually the one you started with. Then they played ‘under the chair’ with presents under six individual chairs and at the end of the game the person sitting on a chair gets the gift – not easy as you keep getting turfed off the chair by another member.
New members are very welcome. Please call Carol Jones on 07899 794422 or Linda Edwards on 07761 340108
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AnnualS Annual S ER
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person (7)
mission (5)
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fficult question (7)
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Sovereign’s seat (6)
Shooting star (6)
Card dispenser (4)
Kidnap (6)
Small measure (6)
Republic between Iran and Syria (4)
Plot (6)
Far distant (6)
Hebrew patriarch (5)
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Apprentice (7)
NW Israel (5)
The last of a series (5)
Spire (7)
Preen (5)
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Cinder (5)
repairer (8)
rose (5)
Move back & forth (6)
gesture of respect (6)
discussion (10)
World’s southernmost city (7)
be it (4)
a knot (4)
surgery (8)
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device (5)
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Easy level Sudoku
Fill in the grid in such a way that every row and column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 19.
Brainteaser
What do the following words have in common: revive, banana, grammar, voodoo, assess, potato, dresser, uneven?
And finally...
My wife gave me a new pen that can write under water. It can write other words as well.
If you take the rstfi letter of each word and place it at the end it will spell the same word backwards.
Brainteaser
Community news...
Despite the rain, there were plenty of visitors to the Kensworth Christmas Fayre held in the village hall on Sunday December 7.
There was a very popular Tombola and Raffle and Santa gave out lots of presents to smaller visitors.
“We were delighted to have so many visitors in spite of the rain,” said John Hagen, chair of the Kensworth Village Hall Management Committee. “All our food was sold (thank you Rachna for your gorgeous homemade samosas) and as chairman I’d like to thank everyone who helped us and our visitors too.”
All photographs by Lorna Hagen. For more pictures visit https://photos.app.goo.gl/ GqKTLFWrUt1mdHXGA
Redbourn Folk Club meets each Wednesday from 7.30pm in the Old School Room behind the Hollybush pub. Go along for an evening of music and song. The club kicked off the New Year on January 7 with a “class act” –Daria Kulesh, longtime friend of the club and a regular at Folk on the Common (Picture: Redbourn Folk Club). For full details of this year’s programme, visit www.redbournfolkclub.org.uk/
Redbourn’s Open Garden Weekend will take place this year on Saturday and Sunday, June 20 and 21. In you are interested in opening your garden in this popular biennial event, Redbourn in Bloom would love to hear from you. The gardens can be any size, wellestablished or still developing. Owners have the option of serving refreshments and/or having a fundraising if they wish. To find out
more, please contact Janet Lang: email janetklang@googlemail.com or call on 07966 945480
Caddhist (Caddington Village Local History Group) celebrated Christmas with a meal at Dunstable Downs Golf Club with 63 members coming together for a cosy festive evening. A delicious three course dinner was served and, true to tradition, they rounded things off with a cheerful singalong of The Twelve Days of Christmas. “It was a lovely night shared with great Caddhist company and plenty of seasonal spirit,” the Group said.
Markyate
Care Group Helpline – 07972 152279
Care Bus – Sharon Stanley 07774862625 or email Sharon.stanley15@outlook.com
Markyate Singers meet every Wednesday 7.30‐9.30pm at the village hall. If you enjoy singing and can hold a tune you are welcome to join our friendly group. We sing for fun but also enjoy a challenge!
Please call Lin on 07969 322726 if you require further details. Markyate Local History Society meets with a speaker on the first Thursday of the month, Feb to April and Sept to Dec, at The Baptist Church Hall, Buckwood Road, Markyate AL3 8JF at 7.45pm. For more details phone David 07913 884256
Slip End
Tennis Club – We are a small, friendly club open to all ages. Membership enquiries: Chris Kelly (07828 174122)
Coaching enquiries: Sally Parry (07979 433688)
Flamstead
Computer Friendly Drop‐in – for free and friendly help for your computer, tablet or smartphone. First Wednesday of the month at the Spotted Dog, Flamstead 10.30‐12.30. Our contact details: Office 01727 617359, www.computerfriendlystalbans.org.uk
Caddington
Caddington and Slip End Runners – Front Street, Slip End 8pm Call 07587 189260
CaddingtonCare Good Neighbour Scheme
CaddingtonCare continues to run its core service Monday‐Friday between 9am and 4.30pm. Please call 07548 264672. The Library in Caddington, held in the Allotment Hut off Folly Lane runs from 10am to 12 noon on alternate Thursdays. There is a large selection of books and jigsaws. Coffee, tea and biscuits are also available.
Caddington WI
Now meets 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 entertainment or a speaker. Sometimes a quiz but always a cup of tea or coffee and cakes to enjoy. Do join us –we look forward to it.
Caddington Local History Group
We meet on the fourth Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm in the Heathfield Centre. Contact John 07763 832245 Tai Chi Mondays 1.30pm & Wednesdays 2pm Contact Christine 07850914438
12.30pm Chair Yoga Wednesdays 1.30pm Beginners Yoga Debbie 07948804031
CADS is an amateur dramatics group that meets every Tuesday from 8pm‐9.30pm at the Heathfield Centre, Caddington.
We are a friendly bunch and welcome new members both onstage and off.
Kensworth
Village Hall, off The Chilterns, Common Road, LU6 3RJ –Sylvia Inns 07831 538682
Kensworth Art Club – Tuesdays 1pm‐4pm at the Village Hall with Sonia Aldridge. 01582 872115
Dog Training at the Village Hall. 6pm‐10pm Wednesday evenings with Pat Gregory. Call 01582 873614 or email
For editorial and advertising call 07939 005218
patgregory@2023@gmail.com
Baby and Toddler Group – Find us on Facebook. Meet Weds 9.30am‐11am, term time only in the Village Hall. £2 for the first child and £1 for each sibling.
Kensworth Drop‐In at the Village Hall. Thursdays from 9am to 11am. Tea, coffee, biscuits and a chat. Email joanmoran6@yahoo.co.uk
Friday morning snack and chat at the Village Hall. Home‐made soup, sausage rolls, chocolate biscuits and a good old natter.
Neighbourhood Watch – Caroline Streek 872410
Cricket Club – Duncan Wingfield 872743; Parish Council – Pat Mitchell 871178 Community Scheme – 07919 081473
Local History – Julia Holder 873465
Studham
Friends of Studham Common See website www.foscomm.org
Studham Village Hall – Main hall and a meeting room available for hire. Modern kitchen. Activities include Art Club, Bingo, Carpet Bowls, Scrabble, Seniors Table Tennis, Women’s Institute (WI) Yoga. Contact: Des Salmon, 01582 872082 desstudham@btconnect.com
Studham Tennis Club – Studham Tennis Club – We are a friendly family orientated club linked to the Studham Sports & Social Club.
We welcome members of all platying standards and have coaching on Saturdays for kids and adults (members and non‐members welcome).
For more information visit https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/StudhamTennisClub
Neighbourhood Watch – Richard Hodge 01582 873630
Studham Mums and Tots Village Hall – Tuesdays 9.30‐11.30, friendly group.
Whipsnade Parish Council
Ken France 01582 872375; Village Hall – Sam Burr 07921 761730
Redbourn
Redbourn u3a meets every month in the village hall and with more than 45 Interest Groups, there is something for everyone in their third age and no longer working full‐time. For more information visit our website at https://redbourn.u3asite.uk, email our membership secretary at redbournu3amembership@gmail.com or speak to the chair on 07956 400493
Tennis at Redbourn Club – Join our friendly club off North Common in the heart of the village. Annual membership fee entitles play all year round. New easy to use court booking system. More details on new website – clubspark.lta.org.uk/ RedbournTennisClub
Redbourn Community Group RCG volunteers offer transport to medical appointments, outings in the minibus, practical help such as shopping and prescription deliveries, friendly talks and walks, and welcome packs for new residents. Call 01582 794550 or email: info@redbourncg.org. More volunteers are always welcome.
Redbourn Bowls Club always welcomes new members. If you would like more details, please contact Jacky Jenkins, Secretary, 07796 218537 Email: jackyjenkins1@gmail.com, or Jez Cronshaw, Coach, on 07525 867450.
Redbourn Community Library – open 6 days a week in our purpose‐built centre beside the Fire Station offering great reads for adults and children, public computers, photocopying and scanning facilities and free wi‐fi. If you would like to know more about joining our team of volunteers, pop in and see us, contact us via our Facebook page or email redbournlibraryvolunteers@gmail.com
Redbourn Players is an active amateur dramatic society performing two major productions every year in spring and autumn as well as other local drama events.
We are always looking for new members of all ages, whether you want to act, help backstage, build sets, make costumes, paint scenery or help with publicity.
If you are interested, or just want to find out more, please email redbourn.players@gmail.com for details.
Redbourn Village Museum Silk Mill House The Common Redbourn Herts. AL3 7NB
Patron: Sir Simon Bowes Lyon Museum open February to November Saturday & Sunday 2pm to 5pm Last admission 4.30pm Tel: 01582 793397 Email: redbournmuseum@gmail.com. Visit us on the web at www.redournmuseum.org
Redbourn in Bloom Horticultural Society
Gold Award winner and Best Small Town in Britain in Bloom 2023. Besides planting schemes to enhance the village, we have all‐year‐round activities, including talks, trips, local awards, Autumn Show and Craft Fair. New members and volunteers always welcome. Join via our website, www.redbourninbloom.org.uk or contact Hilary Brown on 01582 793764, email ribmembership@gmail.com To volunteer, please contact Ann Davis, 01582 792518,email ribhelpers@yahoo.com
Redbourn WI meets at 7.30pm on the second Wednesday of each month at Redbourn Village Hall. For further information call Beth Bradley on 07852 452303.
Harpenden
Young Miscellany Folk Dance Group
We meet two Sundays a month at Park Hall, Leyton Road, Harpenden AL5 2LX 10.30am‐12.30pm during term time. Girls and Boys age 6‐18 welcome, no experience required. We dance a range of Morris and Folk dance styles and display at many local events & folk festivals in the South East, & occasionally travel abroad.
Come and join the fun! No need to pre‐book. (free parking behind the hall).
Website www.youngmiscellany.co.uk and email info@youngmiscellany.co.uk for more details.
Gaddesden Row
Baby and Toddler Group/Coffee Morning running from 9.30am‐11.30am every Wednesday.
Gaddesden Row Village Hall, Clements End Road
Parents/carers and toddlers/babies , plus anyone else that might just fancy a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. All welcome. Parent/carer plus one child £3 – additional children 50p each. Coffee/tea and biscuits included plus snacks for the children.
To include your Groups & Societies in our What’s On pages, email paul‐jacques@ntlworld.com
Caddington Baptist Church Luton Road LU1 4AF Coffee mornings on the 2nd Tuesday of each month 10.30am 12 noon
Caddington Gardening Club is a friendly group, meeting monthly to enjoy a shared interest in gardening, swap ideas, discuss gardening successes, the odd failure and pass on advice. We have monthly speakers, some social events and summer trips to fascinating gardens –meeting at the Baptist Hall on Luton Road, 7.30pm. First up this year is: March 10th 2026 ‐ Cottage Gardens a talk by Susan Young Contact Sarah on 01582 419793
Redbourn Village Museum reopens in February. It will be open on Saturdays and Sundays, 2pm ‐ 5pm, until November.
Everyone Active is holding senior dance and ballet classes across the District
The sessions are open to older people of all abilities in a welcoming environment and with experienced instructors. There are classes in Redbourn, St Albans, Harpenden, London Colney, Bricketwood and Frogmore.
Each session costs only £6 and is a great way to get active, improve balance, have fun and meet new people
For further information, including a timetable, and to book a session, email: stalbansactivecommunities@ everyoneactive.com
Caddington Community Shed
A place where people come together to make things. You get to learn/teach new skills as well as socialise in a friendly and welcoming environment. Come along to the Heathfield Centre on Wednesday afternoons – 2pm until 4.30pm. Just £3 per week, with tea, coffee and biscuits all included.
Sarah Claridge
Chartered Physiotherapist Acupuncturist, Certified Pilates Instructor, Reformer Pilates, BUPA/AXA Reg, Sports rehab, Post‐surgical rehab, Equestrian biomechanics and fitness Tel: 07736 319894 info@meadowphysioandpilates.com www.meadowphysioandpilates.com
The Stables, Valley Farm, Valley Lane, Markyate, AL3 8AT
