Families Herts July-August 2013 Issue 51

FREE Issue No. 51 July/August 2013

The Big Summer 5 fab Holiday! competitions 路 Summer events & activities 路 Tips for Travellers 路 Old Dog, New Baby 路 Surviving the Summer Slide The Herts magazine with the information young families want

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From your Editor…

In this issue:

Summer is here at last – or is it? No matter what the weather is like outside, inside our pages summer has well and truly arrived. We’ve brought you lots of summery information for when you are at home and when you are away.

For when you are at home: our Summer Events & Activities Feature and What’s On listing is full to bursting (we couldn’t fit it all in!) so do make sure that you also check out the online listings as you will find even more to do (www.familiesherts.co.uk).

For when you are away: the Families Magazines Editors, who between us have children aged from three months to early twenties, have pooled our experience to present a really useful and realistic guide for family travel that has been expertly put together by Robina Cowan.

Turn to page nine to see five phenomenal competitions with truly amazing prizes; enter them all, you could be the winner!

I hope that you get some space to relax and to enjoy some well-earned down time with your family – because you’re worth it.

Here’s to a fabulous summer!

Education: 6 Babies & Toddlers: 8 Competitions: 9 The Big Summer Holiday: 10 Summer Events: 11 Summer What's On: 13 Sept/Oct deadline: 30th July Next Issue: Schools and Clubs & Classes

Shelley Where are we? Baldock, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Chorleywood, Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware, Welwyn GC. Pick it up from cafes, playgroups, nurseries, schools, activity groups, selected shops, surgeries, leisure centres and libraries. Get in touch to request copies for your venue.

News & Views: 4

Don’t miss a copy. Families Herts by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email for a subscription form.

Image courtesy of: © Marzanna Syncerz / Dreamstime.com

Families Herts, PO Box 434, Pinner, HA5 9AH Tel/Fax: 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesherts.co.uk

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News & Views Name Your Child's 'Stuff'

Catching up on MMR

The summer holidays offer a wonderful chance for children to kick off their shoes and enjoy carefree days - which is great until they mislay their shoes, outer layers, swimming goggles etc.

Ann-Maree, founder of Labels4Kids (pictured), advises parents to label everything - "because kids lose stuff! Better still, label it twice - once inside a pocket or on the care label, and once on the collar so there is no doubt who things belong to."

Ann-Maree was recently invited to be a member of No 10 Downing Street EU E-Commerce task force along with ASOS to give her advice on e-commerce. Labels4Kids' own re-lauched website makes it easier for you to find your way to the right products.

Choose from brilliant, named stick-on clothing labels, easy iron-on labels and woven ironon labels, vinyl labels for hard surfaces and selection packs.

READER OFFER: Families readers can save 10% when using the code 'families' at the checkout: www.labels4kids.com/fam.

The MMR catch-up programme, run by Public Health England (PHE), NHS England and the Department of Health, aims to prevent measles outbreaks by vaccinating as many 10-16 year olds as possible. This age group is the most at risk of measles due to the fall in coverage of MMR that occurred in the late 1990s and early 2000s when concern around the discredited link between autism and the vaccine was widespread.

The catch-up programme aims to ensure that at least 95 per cent of 10-16 year olds (about 300,000 children) have received at least one dose of MMR. The programme also wants to reach another third of a million who need a second dose of MMR to give them full protection, and a further third of a million children below and above this age band who need another dose.

The most recent figures published by PHE show that the numbers of measles cases in

Tilda Kids

– the new rice range

Ann-Maree Morrison

Tilda Kids new range allow busy mums to give their kids a healthy and nutritious diet. The rice and vegetable range includes: Cheese & Tomato, Sunshine Vegetable, Sweet Vegetable & Wholegrain and Mild & Sweet Curry.

Each 125g pouch provides 1 of their 5-a-day and takes only 40 seconds to cook in the microwave. The range has been developed to cater for a child’s taste pallet and

England are still high with 288 cases in April (compared to 175 in April 2012), bringing the total number this year to 962. However MMR coverage among five year olds in England is very high with 94 per cent receiving one dose and 90 per cent receiving two doses.

Professor David Salisbury, Director of Immunisation at the Department of Health, said: "The best way to beat measles is to protect people before measles catches them.

The best thing that parents can do, if their children have not had two doses of MMR, is to make an appointment with the GP now.”

To find out more about vaccinations go to www.nhs.uk/Conditions/vaccinations

growing appetite.

They can be eaten on their own or with meat or fish.

And because they contain a blend of hidden vegetable puree and small pieces they’ll satisfy fussy eaters.

View the new Tilli animation and download the free activity book from www.tilda.com/kids

Best School of Acting makes its first scholarship awards St Albans-based Best School of Acting has made awards of three full scholarships in memory of local actor Philip Madoc.

"Daiyaan Simeon of Harpenden, Natasha Fowler-Ekar of St Albans and Kayley Green of Welwyn Garden City all showed huge potential at our recent audition workshops and we are delighted they will be joining us as our first Philip Madoc scholars." said Lisa Schulberg, the school's Principal.

Such was the talent and commitment on show at the workshop that Best felt it right to make a number of bursary offers too.

Since its launch last autumn, the school has already grown close to capacity. "We wanted to attract some of the best actors that the area has to offer - those who love acting and want to be the best that they can be. So far it is proving a winning formula. It's a very

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The successful scholarship and bursary students, with Kayley, Natasha and Daiyaan ( front row l-r).

exciting place to be for staff and students alike."

To find out more visit www.bestschoolofacting.com or call on 0845 901 1908

Dads’ Postnatal Depression leads to Bike Elation!

Jason (l) and Matthew (r))

Matthew Barbrook and Jason Tyers have being training hard for The Global Adventure Challenge 300 mile London to Paris bike ride to raise funds for Hertfordshire Postnatal Illness Support (HPIS). Both their wives experienced postnatal depression and Puerperal Psychosis and the men want to raise awareness of the condition and much needed

funds for the charity.

Jason explained,’ My wife, Sally, suffered from postnatal illness after the birth of both of our children but made a complete recovery with the help of HPIS. That’s why I want to support their amazing service.’

Starting from Croydon on 17th July, the pair must cycle over eighty miles each day to ensure they reach Paris on 20th July.

Charlotte Wilmer-Barbrook and Sally Tyers and their families will be in Paris to welcome their husbands. Charlotte and Sally said, ‘We are both so proud of our husbands and the support they gave us when we were very ill.

Their love kept us strong and we love them for highlighting the work of our charity in Hertfordshire.’

HPIS is a charity that provides information, support and advice to families coping with postnatal illness. There is telephone, group and email support available.

To sponsor Jason and Matthew go to: www.bmycharity.com/jasontyers, or click on the Paypal donation button on the charity’s website at www.postnatalillness.co.uk.

Have you experienced an iPaddy?

Six in ten parents punish gadget-obsessed kids with tech bans and three quarters believe children get too attached to their gadgets.

59% of parents say they have experienced an ‘iPaddy’ when they try and forcibly end their kids’ gadget game time. Researchers at online retailer Pixmania.com found restricting use of gadgets is now the preferred form of punishment for eight out of ten parents in the UK. This new trend for tech-punishment has led to the coining of the term ‘iPaddy’, bad behaviour brought on directly from children having their gadgets confiscated.

Confiscating smartphones and tablets were revealed as the most hated form

of punishment as they stopped children having contact with friends and enjoying entertainment. It comes as nearly six in ten parents have actually banned their children from playing on gadgets – or have taken them away for a period of time.

The most popular tech item for children to own was a games console (owned by 46%), followed by an iPod or mp3 player (30%) and smartphone (30%). The average child was found to spend nearly two hours a day playing with tech products and over a quarter of children were revealed as using gadgets for 4+ hours per day.

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Education

Surviving the Summer Slide

By Janet Sherlock

Children look forward to the excitement and adventure of the summer holidays.

What they do not understand is that whilst those days may relax and energise, they can also stress them academically. Recent studies have indicated that many students can go an entire summer without picking up a book. This is known as the summer slide.

When children mentally go on holiday for the summer, they are often at risk of losing one to three months of education, with some dropping behind by as much as two to four national curriculum points. These students enter the classroom in September significantly behind their classmates which makes it challenging for teachers to meet the needs of their students. Parents can help to minimise this loss.

• Support learning at home You do not have to be a teacher to support your child’s learning, any experience can be turned into a learning opportunity. Have them find a book about the play they are studying at drama camp. Participation in a football or rugby camp can be turned into a journaling activity. Maths can be practised through a trip to the grocery store.

• Support learning through summer programmes Sometimes, children need more support than you can give at home. In this instance turn to an established summer school programme where learning is directed in a setting with real, live teaching, and in small classes that allow your child to receive individualised tuition. Enrolling your children in a vibrant and stimulating programme will provide an opportunity to revise learning from the previous school year, extend learning and prepare for future challenges such as entrance exams.

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• Support learning through the library Local libraries present opportunities to participate in reading programmes, group discussions, or other literacy events. Use your local library to find grade level appropriate books and activities. Sign up to the Summer Reading Challenge (see page 11).

Janet Sherlock is head tutor at Leaders are Readers, the award-winning Saturday and Summer Schools. www.leadersarereaders.co.uk

www.explorelearning.co.uk

Join Explore Learning in July and get 25% off the first month’s fees!* Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities, and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation. The centres are open 7 days a week, are Ofsted registered, and accept Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership. Children attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis, meaning that sessions fit easily into busy schedules.

Children work with tutors who are enthusiastic about learning and also are fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet their needs, and all Explore courses are mapped to the National Curriculum. This combination of benefits has led to the company being named Supplementary Education Provider of the Year at the Education Investor Awards for the past two years.

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join Explore Learning, as parents across the country look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the summer break. *Available at participating centres.

To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre. (See advert on page 7)

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Babies & Toddlers

Old Dog, New Baby You are an experienced dog owner but you will soon become an inexperienced new parent! The Dogs Trust offers useful advice to help you help your dog to adjust to this big change.

• Dogs like routine so get your dog used to changes before the birth so that he won’t associate the baby with upheaval.

• It’s essential that your dog associates the baby with positive feelings. If you are going to use baby gates and make some rooms ‘dog free’ start doing this before your baby is born.

• Get your dog used to staying in a safe place with his bed and a tasty chew for short periods every day. There will be times when you’ll be busy with the baby, so training your pet to be happy on his own will help him cope with the changes.

• Your family or health workers may encourage you to part with your dog thinking it will be easier for you. If your dog is friendly with people then you should be able to introduce your new baby to the family dog quite happily.

• Involve your dog in as much family life as possible so he feels included.

• To make dog walking as easy as possible use a baby sling to leave your hands free to hold the dog’s lead.

• Dogs find it tricky to differentiate their toys from a baby’s, so keep the dog’s toys separate. You could smear a blob of peanut butter on them.

• Being a new parent is time consuming, but always give your dog some of your undivided attention (stroke or groom him) away from the baby.

Image courtesy of Andy Catterall

Sunshine, Vitamin D and tired tots It is important to apply sunscreen and keep babies and children out of the sun in the middle of the day, but children do need some sun to ensure healthy levels of Vitamin D. We know that a lack of Vitamin D can lead to poor bone health but a new study has found that there is a correlation between excessive daytime sleepiness and Vitamin D. The researchers found that sleepiness increased as blood levels of vitamin D decreased. According to The Department of Health, Vitamin D deficiency is a concern, particularly for pregnant women, infants and young children under five and they advise that supplements should be taken by those groups. This is because breast milk, on average, contains only 10% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin D. Other studies have shown that more vitamin D during infancy can help reduce the risk of major health concerns later on in life.

The Golden Rules

• Never leave your dog alone with your child • Never punish or shout at your dog for approaching your baby • Always praise your dog for behaving gently with your baby/child • Always keep your child well away from your dog’s food bowl • Never let your child interrupt his sleep or take away his toys • Never let your child shout in your dog’s face or pull his tail

To find out more and to download the “New Baby” factsheet go to www.dogstrust.org.uk Dogs Trust works with schools to educate children about staying safe around dogs. www.learnwithdogs.co.uk

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World Breastfeeding Week: 1st – 7th August This year’s theme is Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers and it concentrates on the benefits of breastfeeding counselling.

The one-to-one support of a counsellor can help women overcome breastfeeding difficulties and encourage women not to give up. Councellors are trained to answer questions and help with issues that arise. For more about World Breastfeeding Week go to: worldbreastfeedingweek.org. For information about breastfeeding go to www.nct.org.uk You can find your local support group at www.hertsbreastfeeding.org.uk

Competitions

Enter at www.familiesherts.co.uk

Win a Portrait Photography Session worth £280!

Candyfields Photography is a team of photographers, lead by Chris Welsh, specialising in bespoke location portraits for your family, children, maternity or teens.

We don’t just take photographs; we believe that your family is the very heart and soul

of your life. Together we will create a unique experience of being photographed at a location of your choice and capture those precious childhood memories.

We are offering three readers a portrait session and a 7x8” print worth in total, £280.

Sessions include a pre-consultation and two hours of photography. For maternity sessions, a makeup artist is provided.

Terms & Conditions: Photo session is for up to 4 persons, for example two adults and two children or up to four children. Prize must be redeemed by 31st October 2013. Prize is non-exchangeable for cash. Locations within Hertfordshire.

To see our images go to www.candyfieldsphotography.com Keep up to date with us and get some great tips at www.candyfieldsphotography.com/blog If you are not lucky enough to be a winner you will receive a 10% discount code.

Closing date: 31st August

Win 10 Caterpillar Music Sessions

Win 4 tickets to see

Caterpillar Music classes for babies and young children offer a unique introduction to music with exciting weekly themes, colourful instruments and amazing puppets. Now, Sonia George, is very excited to be opening a new Caterpillar Music class in the Cheshunt area.

The Caterpillar class (0 to 36 months) is a fun class with mixed age groups for young babies and toddlers to enjoy together developing language skills, rhythm social skills and fine motor skills.

The Butterfly class (18 months to 4 years) encourages toddlers to pre-schoolers to further develop their motor skills and co-ordination.

Because parents and carers actively join in, children benefit even more from this interaction.

Classes open from 8th July on Mondays at St Andrew’s Church Undercroft (Cuffley) at 09:40 and on Wednesdays at Burgess Hall (Cheshunt) at 09:30. Sonia will also be opening classes at venues in St Albans and Brookmans Park soon.

To find out more contact Sonia George on 01992 622 910 or 07966 208 270, e-mail sonia.george@caterpillarmusic.com or visit www.caterpillarmusic.com Closing date: 5th August

Win an ‘Off to School’ set To help you get ready for the new term Easy2Name are giving away 5 ‘Off to School’ label sets: each set is worth £18.90 and contains 30 waterproof stickers, 30 iron on name tapes, 1 set of shoe covers, 1 bag tag and 1 shoe bag.

Enter for a chance have a personalised set for your child. You will be able to choose from a red, lilac or blue shoe bag.

The full Easy2Name range can be seen at www. easy2name.com Closing date: 11th August

‘Thank You For The Music’ ‘Thank You for the Music’, the incredible ABBA tribute show, will be at Hertford Theatre on Saturday 21st September (7.45pm) with a brand-new show celebrating 40 years of fabba-ulous ABBA hits.

ABBA’s live shows are faithfully reproduced as hit follows hit, including: Dancing Queen; Super Trouper; Waterloo; Knowing Me, Knowing You; The Name of the Game; Mamma Mia; Take a Chance on Me and Thank You For the Music.

This theatrical romp takes the audience through the decades with glittering costumes and superb musicianship. So, polish up your platforms and prepare to be dazzled by this amazing show.

Great for a mums’ night out or for families (with children aged 8+).

To book go to www.hertfordtheatre.com or call 01992 531500 Closing date: 31st August

Win a Family Day Pass to With the recent opening of their bijoux new home at Willows Farm Village, some silly sheep and goofy goats went exploring and ended up getting lost in the maze.

Children visiting during the Summer Spectacular (20th July to 1st September) can help Willows’ Farmers, Andrew and Anna, to find them.

The maize maze, covers four acres and may reach over six feet by high summer! With its thrilling twists, turns and dead ends, finding the animals won’t be easy – but is guaranteed to be ‘a-maize-ing’ fun! See all the events at www.willowsfarmvillage.com or call 0870 129 9718 Enter for your chance to win 1 of 2 Family Day Passes.

Closing date: 28th July

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Summer Feature The Big Summer Holiday

- Tips for Travellers

By Robina Cowan

Yippee! It’s the break we’ve all been dreaming of and looking forward to through the dank winter and spring months – here comes this year’s summer holiday. Hands up who remembers when it was just you and your beloved, grabbing a cheap deal, filling a backpack at the last minute and heading for the sun? Those were the good old days... Now you’re a family, there’s a third ‘p’ to add to ‘passport and packing’ – ‘planning’.

Here at Families (now a mighty group of 40 local magazines), the editors have children spanning all ages from three months to the early twenties, so you could say we’ve been there, done that. We put our heads together to pool our experience and best ideas for you. Happy travelling!

BEFORE YOU GO * Label your child’s clothes, towels and backpacks, especially if you will be using kids’ clubs – they WILL go missing. Labels 4 Kids (www.labels4kids.com/fam) and Easy 2 Name (www.easy2name.com) both stock packs of instant labels so the job’s a breeze and it’s a much cheaper solution than replacing lost items. They also have ID wristbands so you can label the children with your contact details * Use Google Street View with the children to look round your planned location and help get familiarised with the landscape, ‘foreign’ signs and local attractions.

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* Photocopy everyone's passport and keep the copies in a different place.

If the originals go missing, proof that you had passports will make it much easier to tussle with overseas authorities when it's time to come home * Have up to date pictures of your children on your phone - if they go missing you can show authorities what they look like * Freeze food to await your return - even fresh milk can be frozen - so you don't come home to an empty kitchen. Some very organised mothers even do an online shop towards the end of their holiday, for delivery on their first day home. Now, that's organisation! * Lost luggage is a nightmare. Rather than filling one suitcase per person, pack a couple of daytime and evening outfits for everyone in each case so you can all get started while the hotel/airline tracks down the missing bag * Involve your children in the packing even if just a small part is their responsibility. It occupies them while you are busy and gets them into the holiday mood. Then check their choices: you may find fancy dress costumes and nothing sensible (OK, I admit this is from experience!) * Add a small ‘emergency bag’ to your hand luggage, with plasters, tissues, sachets of paracetamol, cotton wool, needle and thread, safety pins, wetwipes and a few sweets (for bribing and wiping away tears). Oh the

© mangostock - Fotolia.com

satisfying feeling to have what you need just at the right time! * Pack spare clothes in your hand luggage in case of ‘accidents’ * Leave a spare set of keys with a friendly neighbour in case of home emergencies, losing yours or locking yourself out (I’ve done that just when we were about to leave!) * Cancel the newspapers and ask your friendly neighbour to return the wheelie bins to your property on collection day, so you’re not advertising an empty home.

ON THE WAY * Long car journeys are not all about being plugged into gadgets. Try story tapes - as a family, we are all totally addicted to the ‘How to Train your Dragon’ series. The ‘Michelin I-Spy’ activity books are great fun, as are the free downloads from www.rac.co.uk/advice/ car-knowledge/top-ten/car-games/. * For flights, Usborne’s ’50 Things do on a Plane’ will keep them occupied, rrp £5.99, while the Top Trumps range is great for older children, especially if you're willing to join in

* Flying is the one time I am relaxed about screen time - if you have electrical gadgets, use them. Make sure you have some child friendly headphones to hand so as not to 'share' your child's love of Peppa Pig with the entire plane * Sucky sweets (as they are known in our house) are great for little ones who struggle with their ears on take off. Give babies a bottle (or breastfeed) to stop their ears popping * Planes can be chilly and children won't relax if they're not cosy so pack an extra layer for the flight. * If your child is crying on the flight, don't panic. Most passengers will be either parents or grandparents and will have sympathy for you. Your priority is settling your child in the best way you can. If your child has a favourite teddy or comfort blanket, make sure it's in your hand luggage. It may help calm them and that in turn will calm you.

Summer Events & Activities PSST...

Explore the

Perform Summer Experience Perform are offering a 10% discount to our readers if they quote Families Magazine when booking!

WHILE YOU'RE THERE * Resist the temptation to Facebook your day's antics - you're advertising that you are away and your home's empty. Not a good idea * When packing to come home, check the back of every drawer, cupboard and even under the beds for favourite toys that might be lurking unseen. Have a quick rifle through the hotel/resort Lost Property box for mislaid hats/t-shirts etc (patting yourself on the back for labelling them beforehand).

WHEN YOU RETURN * Take your holiday laundry for a service wash - it's a small price to pay for not having to sort, wash and dry all those gritty beach towels and sunscreen covered t-shirts.

AND FINALLY Work on a 70:30 ratio. Holidays are not effortless when you have children, just as life at home is not effortless. If you can enjoy 70% of the time you are away together, that's a result. 30% will be about tantrums, tiredness and bad moods. But if you come home knowing that for most of the time, you relaxed, laughed and enjoyed the time spent together as a family, it's been a success!

This summer’s Reading Challenge has a spine-tingling theme waiting to be explored.

Children need to read six library books to discover the secrets of the Creepy House and meet the hair-raising residents who live there.

The challenge starts on 13th July until 7th September. Pick up a starter pack from your local library and mobile library. Children will get sticker rewards along the way and those completing the challenge will receive their medal and certificate at a special presentation ceremony.

There will be a launch day with free activities at Watford Central Library on 13th July. Other events happening over the summer include ’Meet the Creepy House creepy crawlies’ drop-in sessions at Stevenage, St Albans and North Watford libraries, and a ‘Catch the Reading Bug’ day at the Butterfly World Project in Chiswell Green on 1st August.

To find out more visit www.hertsdirect.org/ libraries or call 0300 1234 049. Visit www. creepy-house.org.uk for fun games and more.

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Summer Feature St Albans Celebrates Magna Carta 800th Anniversary This summer, St Albans commemorates the 800th anniversary of its unique place in the history of the Magna Carta, the historic document setting out fundamental rights that still underpin many legal systems across the world.

On 4th August 1213 in St Albans, Churchmen and barons, led by Stephen Langton the Archbishop of Canterbury, held their first meeting to discuss their grievances against King John. This historic meeting eventually led to the articles that became the Magna Carta, which was sealed at Runnymede in 1215.

Dino Diner Opens at Rye-Assic Adventure Park The Dino Shack is the latest Fant-Assic addition to Rye House Kart Raceway’s RyeAssic Adventure Park. The shack is located within the outdoor play area and is the ideal place for youngsters and their parents to enjoy milkshakes, frozen slush drinks, ice creams and more. There’s an outside jungle terrace and indoor seating. Or eat in the spooky cave if you're brave enough!

The park is designed for children aged 0-9 years old and it features a host of fun activities including life size model dinosaurs, the Lost in Time crazy maze, outdoor trampolines, crazy golf, a play zone centred around a pirate galleon, super safe Quad-zilla electric quads for 3s and over and an indoor soft play centre.

Rye-Assic Adventure Park is open year round from 9.30am to 5pm. Admission is £3.95 weekdays and £4.95 at weekends. Play sessions are offered at the following times: 9.30am to 12noon, 12noon to 2.30pm and 2.30pm to 5pm. Visitors can just turn up but it is best to book or to check the online calendar because it does get busy.

To find out more, to book and to see the online calendar go to www.ryehouseadventurepark.co.uk or call 01992 460895 ext 1

You will be able to see an original copy of the Magna Carta on display. The historic document will be on show in St Albans Cathedral from 3rd to 29th August. Tickets can be purchased on the door (Adults £4; Concs £3) or in advance at www. enjoystalbans.com (Adults £3; Concs £2).

Under 16s are free when visiting with an adult. The Magna Carta Medieval Festival will be held in Verulamium Park from 3rd to 4th August (10am - 4pm). The festival will feature an encampment and re-enactment of the conflict between the king, the barons and the

They’re the Tops!

Hertfordshire-based Top Talent Agency is launching a Britain's Got Top Talent Tour to find the next Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson – and the first stop will be The Forum at the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield.

Top Talent will be inviting children to attend auditions on 18th August. For those who can’t make that date, there will be another audition at the Dominion Theatre in London’s West End on 20th August.

The agency has 300 children on its books but agency director, Warren Bacci, is keen to give more talented youngsters the chance to embark on the road to a performing career.

Top Talent supplies child actors to popular TV shows such as EastEnders, Holby City and Call the Midwife, as well as West End shows and major films.

Parents who think their child has what it takes to tread the boards or act in a major TV drama, should first apply online for a place at one of the auditions at www.toptalentagency. co.uk.

Warren is also the Principal of Top Hat

Warren Bacci & Top Hat students

Stage School, which has part-time performing arts schools throughout Hertfordshire including in St Albans, Harpenden, Potters Bar, Welwyn, Stevenage and Hertford.

This summer Top Hat Stage School is offering a summer course based on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Children will put on a show in just a week! All are welcome and no experience is needed just plenty of enthusiasm.

Dates and locations are: Potters Bar - 5-9 August; Wheathamspead - 12-15 August; St Albans - 12-16 August and 19-22 August.

For more information, go to www.tophatstageschool.co.uk.

Pony Trekking in the Lee Valley Enjoy a Pony Trekking Experience at the WaterWorks Centre. You’ll be guided by Lee Valley Riding Centre instructors through the beautiful sights of the WaterWorks, on wellschooled horses and ponies for children. You’ll learn the basics from mounting to riding, all in a relaxed and safe environment. No special kit is required as hats and boots are available to borrow for free.

Families, friends and groups are welcome to experience this wonderful activity. Sessions

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church. There will be equestrian, combat and archery displays and fun family activities. For more information go to www.enjoystalbans.com and www.magnacarta800th.com

will begin from 19th July. To book and for further information, visit the website www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Summer What's On THEATRE BROXBOURNE CIVIC HALL High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE 01992 441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ whatson CINEMA: Oz the Great and the Powerful (PG) 30 July – 2D 10.30am, 3D 2pm Jack the Giant Slayer (12A) 6 Aug – 2D 10.30am, 3D 2pm The Croods (U) 13 Aug – 2D 10.30am, 3D 2pm Epic (U) 27 Aug – 2D 10.30am, 3D 2pm Tickets: £3.10-£7 THEATRE: Postman Pat 21 Aug – 1pm & 3.30pm Tickets: £12, Child £10, Babes in Arms £5, Family £42 HAWTHORNE THEATRE Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk Treasure Island 10 Aug – 11am & 3pm A play with songs. 5 yrs+.

Tickets: £8

WATERWORKS NATURE RESERVE Lammas Road (off Lea Bridge Road), Leyton, London E10 7QB 0843 208 062 www.dot-productions.co.uk Finding Alice 27 July – 3pm Outdoor family show based on Lewis Carroll’s classic, with music and sing-a-longs.

Tickets: £7, Under 14s £5, Family £20 THE WESTON AUDITORIUM University of Hertfordshire, De Havilland Campus, Hatfield AL10 9EU 01707 281127 www.herts.ac.uk/artsandgalleries Heart of Flame concert 6 July – 7.30pm New and familiar music performed by local residents, including Philomusica youth orchestra, community choirs and dance items. Tickets: £9, Child £6 Arrietty (U) 13 July – 10am (workshop), 11am (film) Age 5+. Film plus arts & crafts workshop. Film: £2.50 per child (up to two adults free).

Workshop: £3.50 per child

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Summer What's On WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar EN6 2HN 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk CINEMA: Epic (PG) 2D: 5 & 6 Aug – 11am, 1.30pm, 7 Aug – 1.30pm. 3D: 7 & 8 Aug – 4pm Despicable Me 2 (PG) 12-15 Aug – 1.30pm (2D) & 4pm (3D) Monsters University (U) 27-30 Aug – 1.30pm (2D) & 4pm (3D) Tickets: £3-4

SUMMER CAMPS ACT NOW! Trestle Arts Base, Russet Drive, St Albans AL4 0JQ 07920 855410. www. actnowperformingartsschool.co.uk Weekdays 5-16 Aug – 9.30am-4.30pm. Performances 15 & 16 Aug – 7.30pm.

Musical theatre course. Les Misérables. 9 to 19 yrs, no experience required. £210. Existing Act Now! students: £180.

Sibling discount: 10% ARTSKOOL ACADEMY Tues at Civic Centre, Welwyn AL6 9AS. Weds & Thurs at Artscape, Southdown Ind Estate, Harpenden 07890 575828 www.artskool-kids.com Dates from 23 July-21 Aug – 10am-12noon Drop off arty holiday sessions.

Book in advance. £12 per session per child. £20 for 2 places, £32 for 3 places BARRACUDAS ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS Various locations in Herts 0845 123 5299 www.barracudas.co.uk Summer holidays – 8.30am-5.30pm (8am-6pm can be arranged) Multi-activity day camp for children aged 4½ -16. Whole weeks or individual days.

See website for cost details BEDAZZLE PERFORMING ARTS: POP SCHOOL 13 Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG 07841 990609 www. rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 29 July-2 Aug – 10am-3pm Performance: 2nd Aug – 6pm Be a pop star for a week! £100 for the week, includes one ticket for the show

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BEST THEATRE ARTS Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX 01727 759634 www.besttheatrearts.com 22 July-9 Aug – 9.45am-12.30pm (4-6 yrs). 10am-4pm (6-16 yrs) Theatre fun. New theme each week. £85-£150 per week BIRCHWOOD LEISURE CENTRE PLAYSCHEME Longmead, Hatfield, AL10 0AN 01707 262023 www.hatfield-herts.gov.uk 25 July-3 Sept – 8.30am-6pm Ages 4-11 (Year 7). Bouncy castle, badminton, karaoke, face painting, netball, arts & crafts, cooking, football, Hatfield Kids Funzone. £20.50 per day. Hatfield Resident £14 per day CELTIC HARMONY BUSHCRAFT SUMMER CAMPS The Iron Age Settlement, Brickendon Lane, Brickendon Herts SG13 8NY 01438 718543 celticharmony.org Archery; fire lighting; shelter building; cooking over an open hearth; animal tracks; outdoor games. Children 8+. 9.30-4.30pm.

3 Day Camp: 22-24 July, 29-31 July, 5-7 Aug. 2 Day Camp: 25-26 July, 1-2 Aug, 8-9 Aug. 1st child: £40 per day. Extra children: £37 per day Family Camp (5 yrs+) Build your shelter, sleep in it & cook your food (bring your own).

10am Sat-4pm Sun. 27-28 July, 3-4 Aug Adult £79, Child £49, Family £249 CENTRE 4 EXCELLENCE 07919 067343 centre4excellence@btconnect. com Concerned about your child’s reading? Summer course to boost skills. 5-16 yrs.

COURTYARD ARTS CENTRE Port Vale, Hertford SG14 3AA 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk Art & Clay Workshops for Children 30 July-30 Aug (Tues to Fri) 5 yrs+ From £8 per class EVERYONE ACTIVE HARTHAM LEISURE CENTRE Hartham Common, Hartham Lane, Hertford SG14 1QR 01992 584000 harthaminfo@everyoneactive. com www.everyoneactive.com

Colleagues vs Customers Rounders!

13 July – 1pm All abilities and ages welcome.

Refreshments provided.

Free FINE ART 4 KIDS! St Michaels Parish, St Michaels Street, St Albans AL3 4SL 020 8275 0360 www.fineart4kids.com Holiday workshops. 5-12 yrs. £15 per 2-hr class GOSLING SPORTS PARK Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6XE 01707 384303 ajohnson@goslingsports.co.uk School holidays – 9am-3.30pm.

8am-6pm can be arranged.

Sport camps for ages 4-14. Half days for 3 yr olds.

KOOL KIDZ CAMPS St John Fisher School, Hazelmere School, St Albans AL4 9RW 0845 603 2858 www.koolkidzgroup.co.uk Weekdays 29 July-30 Aug Ages 4-12. Half or full days.

See website for prices LEE VALLEY ATHLETICS CENTRE Meridian Way, Edmonton, London N9 0AR 020 8344 7230 visitleevalley.org.uk/athletics Star Track 29 July-2 Aug, 5-9 Aug, 19-23 Aug – 10am-2pm Week-long holiday courses offering expert tuition from javelin to long jump. 8-12 yrs. £52-£62 THE MARKET THEATRE SUMMER SCHOOL Sun Street, Hitchin SG5 1AE 01462 433553 www.markettheatre.co.uk 12-16 Aug – 9.30am-12.30pm (8-11 yrs), 1.30pm-4.30pm (1215 yrs) Workshops leading to a show at the end of the week. £100 for the week PERFORM Aladdin. Drama, dance & singing for 4-8s.

Fleetville Junior School, 228 Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4LW 29 July-2 Aug – 10am-12pm, 19-23 Aug – 10am-12pm Christ Church Vision Hall, Watling Street, Radlett WD7 7JJ 19-23 Aug – 2-4pm £145. 25% sibling discount.

Perform T-shirts required (£7.50)

PHOENIX THEATRE SCHOOL Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG 08456 800 640 www.phoenixtheatreschool.co.uk 18-24 Aug – 10am-4pm Performance: 24 Aug – 8pm Blast! For ages 11 (School Year 6 leavers) to 18. £125 (T-Shirt included). Tickets to performance: £9, Conc £7 PLAY IN THE PARKS 01727 819531 (Sport Development Team), beth.tyler@leisureconnection.co.uk www.stalbans.gov.uk School holidays Play activities in 13 parks & open spaces. Age: 5-12. Under 8s must be with an adult. Free STAGECOACH Sir Frederic Osborn School, Herns Lane, Welwyn Garden City AL7 2AF 020 8441 5922 www.stagecoach.co.uk Musical Mayhem 5-9 Aug – 9.30am-3.30pm (6-18 yrs), 10am-3pm (4-6yrs) A week of singing, dancing, acting & fun! £125. Sibling £75 See ad on pg 11 for dates of your local Stagecoach Holiday Workshops SUPER CAMPS Various locations in Herts 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Mon-Fri during school holidays.

Extended hours from 8am to 6pm can be arranged.

Multi Activity Camps 9am-5pm. 4-14 yrs. £40 per day. £160 per week RAW Adventure Camps 9.20am-4.30pm 5-day courses for 7-14 yrs.

Survive and thrive in the outdoors. £180 per week A Passion For… Holiday Workshops 9.20am-4.30pm. 5-day courses for 6-16 yrs. For budding artists, inventors, chefs or performers, or those who just want to try something new. £180 per week SUPERKIDS The Sitting Room, 117 Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JS 07775 565220 www.superkids.me.uk 8-12 yrs.

Confidence Building Programme.

22-26 July.

Daily 10am-12noon Brain Skills Programme 5-9 Aug. Daily 10am-12noon £95 per programme

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Summer What's On TENNIS FOR MINIS Meadow Park, Brook Road, Borehamwood WD6 5HG Call Rafa on 07762 786820 tenezus@gmail.com 29-31 July – 9am-12noon Summer camp for ages 4-10.

Also, weekly tennis club on Saturdays at 12.30pm.

THEATRE SKOOL Ware Drill Hall, 17 Amwell End, Ware, Herts SG12 9HP 07957 406930 www.theatreskool.co.uk Rule The 'Skool Workshop 29 July-2 Aug. Daily 10am-3pm Create, run and manage your own show. Ages 6-16, no experience necessary. £100 per child. Siblings £85 TICK TOCK St Albans Scout Hut, Chene Drive, off Waverly Rd (follow signs for Oak Tree Manor care home) 07933 153054 www.ticktockmusic.co.uk 31 July, 7 & 14 Aug – 9.45 & 11.15am 1 child £6, Sibling 6 mths-1 yr £2, Sibling over 1 yr £3.50 TOP HAT STAGE & SCREEN SCHOOL 01727 812666 www.tophatstageschool.co.uk Potters Bar: 5-9 Aug, Wheathampsted: 12-15 Aug, St Albans: 12-16 Aug, 19-22 Aug. Put on a show in a week! Beauty & the Beast. 4-17 yrs 4 & 5 yrs: £100, 6-17 yrs: £150 (£130 for existing Top Hat students) WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF 01908 209217 Weekdays 18 July-30 Aug (except Bank Holidays) – 8.30am-5.30pm. 8am-6pm can be arranged 3-12 yrs. Exclusive play rooms plus all the fun of Willows Farm Village. Includes lunch, hot evening meal, drinks & snacks.

Full price details online, eg 5 consecutive days £159 per child

FARMS & WILDLIFE PARKS ALDENHAM COUNTRY PARK Aldenham Road, Elstree WD6 3BA 020 8953 9602 www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk 9am-6pm daily. Some activities Fridays & weekends only.

Rare breeds farm. Pony grooming & rides. Find Pooh and his friends

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in 100 Aker Wood. Bookable Monkey Nets (age 3+) and Tree Climbing (5+).

Farm entry: £3 with animal feed.

2 yrs & under free. Family £10.

Some activities extra charge. Car park £3.50 BUTTERFLY WORLD Miriam Lane, Off Noke Lane, Chiswell Green AL2 3NY 01727 869 203 www.butterflyworldproject.com Daily 10am-5pm (Last entry 4.30pm) £7.50, Concs £6.50, 3-16 yrs £3.30, Under 2s free CHURCH FARM Ardeley, Nr Stevenage SG2 7AH 01438 861447 www.churchfarmardeley.com Daily from 9am Buy some feed and feed the animals yourself. Woodland play area. Cafe.

Free entry & parking Campfire Weekends 20 July & 24 Aug Bonfire, shelter marquees and local musicians playing through the evening. Bring own BBQ, games & tent. Camping for a night: Adult £10, Under 16 £8, Under 2 £2. Book in advance GRAVELEY FRUIT FARM Graveley, SG4 7EQ 01438 727709 www.graveleystrawberries.co.uk Daily in July – 9.30am-5pm. Late season – Wed & Sat only Pick Your Own fruit. Adventure play area. Pigs. Tractor rides most weekends. Café.

HATFIELD PARK FARM Hatfield House, Hatfield AL9 5NQ 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk Tues-Sun & Bank Holidays – 10am-5.30pm Traditional breeds. Tractor rides.

Miniature train ride (11am-5pm weekends, bank holidays & school holidays.) Adventure play area. £4.50, 3-15 yrs £2 HITCHIN LAVENDER Cadwell Farm, Ickleford, Hitchin SG5 3UA 01462 434343 www. hitchinlavender.com Daily 10am-5pm until 15 Sept Children love to run up and down the rows of lavender!

Refreshments. £4, Child £1 LANGLEYBURY CHILDREN’S FARM Langleybury Lane, Nr Kings Langley, Herts WD4 8RW www.langleyburyfarm.co.uk

Easter to Halloween – 11am-5pm (Weekends, bank holidays plus weekdays in school holidays) Feed the pigs, sheep, deer & goats. Play area, bouncy castle, putting green & café. £3.50, Child £2. Cash only. Free parking LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF. Rail: Cheshunt.

01992 892781 visitleevalley.org.uk/farms Meet sheep, husky dogs, reindeer, pygmy goats, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs, long-necked llama and a meerkat family. Toboggan run, indoor & outdoor play. Café.

Peak tickets: £8.50, 2-16 yrs £7 Peppa Pig 31 July – 10am-5pm African Antics 7 Aug – 10am-5pm Exotic African animals.

Oh I do Like to be Beside the Seaside 14 Aug – 10am-5pm Donkey rides, Punch & Judy, sandcastle competition.

Love British Nature Day 21 Aug – 10am-5pm Minibeast hunting, conservation activities, owls, bats & bees.

American Antics 27 Aug – 10am-5pm North and South American animals (no crocodiles!). Find out how the animals are linked to the continents’ different cultures.

WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com Daily 10am-5.30pm (last entry 4.30pm) Adorable animals, indoor & outdoor adventure play, fairground rides and children's shows.

Mike the Knight 7 July Summer Spectacular 20 July-1 Sept Track down the animals in the twists, turns and dead ends of the A-maize-ing Maze!

WIMPOLE HOME FARM Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW 01223 206000 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ wimpole-estate Daily – 10.30am-5pm Working farm. Rare breeds & shire horses. Groom the donkeys and drive a mini tractor. £7.90, Child £5.20, Family £23.70

PLACES TO GO ASHRIDGE ESTATE Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT 01442 851227 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ashridge-estate Daily dawn-dusk. Visitor Centre 10am-5pm Beautiful landscape of open downland and woods.

Ashridge Summer Trail Until 16 Sept – 10am-4pm Answer questions along the way and earn your reward!

Child £1 Booking essential for the following events except where stated.

Creatures of the night 12 July – 9pm Look for bats and other nocturnal creatures, followed by a moth trapping session. £10, Child £6 Butterfly Walk 14 July – 10am £8, Child £5 Explore Ashridge 20 July & 24 Aug Guided walk £7, Child £5 Totally Batty 24 July – 9pm Bat hunt £10, Child £6 Summer Fun Tuesdays 6, 13, 20 & 27 Aug A different craft activity each week. No need to book.

Child £2 Pond Dipping 6 Aug – 10.30am Child £3 Minibeast Hunt 13 Aug – 10.30am Child £3 Track Wild Animals 14 Aug – 10.30am Child £3 Pitstone Hill Archaeology Walk 15 Aug – 6.30pm £7, Child £5 BROXBOURNE CIVIC HALL High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE 01992 441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ whatson Teddy Bears Picnic 8 Aug – 12-3pm Prizes for the best dressed Teddies, The Crazy Bears Show, competitions, arts & crafts. £5.50 (£4.75 in advance), Family £17. Under 2s free

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Summer What's On Children’s Pet Show Bollescroft House, opposite Civic Hall 14 Aug – 1pm register small pets, 1.45pm register dogs £1.50 per class entered, £5 for 4 classes BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RAILWAY CENTRE Quainton Road Station Quainton Bucks HP22 4BY Book at www.ltmuseum.co.uk Call 0207 565 7298 Discover Forgotten MetroLand 3-4, 7 Aug Family Fun Days to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the London Underground. Enjoy rides in vintage carriages pulled by steam trains, miniature railway, storytelling sessions and craft workshops. Children can also go inside the Night Mail carriage which was used by the Post Office.

Adults: £12 (advance £10), Children: £9 (advance £7), SC: £11 (advance £9), Family (two adults and up to 4 children) £33 (advance £31), Group:10% discount for parties of 15 to 24 people. All tickets also allow 50% discount to another August 2013 event at Buckingham Railway Centre.

HATFIELD FOREST www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatfield-forest Bat Walk 8 & 22 Aug – 8pm More info: 01279 870678, brian.dunn@nationaltrust.org. uk Booking essential: online or 0844 2491895 8 yrs+. £7, Child £5 Treasure Island 26 Aug – 2.30pm. Workshop for 5-10 yrs – 1pm Open air family musical. Children can wear their best pirate fashions for a photo with the cast. £13, 3-15 yrs £10, Family £40.

Workshop £2 HATFIELD HOUSE Hatfield, Herts AL9 5NQ 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk Art in Clay 07751 296625 www.artinclay.co.uk 5-7 July – 10am-5.30pm (5pm Sunday) See and buy beautiful ceramic items for indoor and outdoor use. £9 (£8 in advance), Conc £8.50 (£7.50 in advance), Under 15s free

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Battle Proms Concert 20 July, gates open 4.30pm Classical picnic proms featuring Spitfire, Blades acrobatic team, cannons, cavalry and fireworks. £34 until the day before the concert. 5-15 yrs £16. Age 4 and under free Folk by the Oak festival 21 July, gates open 1pm £35 in advance, £39 on the day.

5-15 yrs £16. Age 4 and under free. Family £94 Treasure Island 22 Aug – 3pm Open air family musical. Children can wear their best pirate fashions for a photo with the cast. £12, Child £10, Family £40 THE HENRY MOORE FOUNDATION Perry Green, Much Hadham, Herts SG10 6EE 01279 844104 www.henry-moore.org Wed-Sun & bank holidays – 11am-5pm until 27 Oct Sculpture gardens. This season’s exhibition compares Moore’s work with one of the pioneers of modern sculpture – Auguste Rodin. £12.50, 5-18 yrs £6, Under 5s free, Family £27 Book & Card Making Workshops 7 July – 12-4pm All ages. Children must bring an adult. Drop in.

Free as part of general admission ticket LEE VALLEY 08456 770 600 visitleevalley.org.uk A unique area that extends from London through Essex and Herts.

A great place for a family day out. From London 2012 venues to heritage sites, cycling, walking, white water rafting, horse riding, nature reserves and open spaces.

A Walk in the Park 7 July – 10.30am-12.30pm River Lee Country Park (Pindar car park), Windmill Lane, Cheshunt EN8 9AJ See how the industrial past of the park has influenced the natural history of today.

Free Doggie Sponsored Walk 14 July – 12noon River Lee Country Park (Pindar car park), Windmill Lane, Cheshunt EN8 9AJ To enter your dog email jackiekitchener@tiscali.co.uk

Lee Valley 10k & Family Fun Run 14 July – from 10am (Fun Run 11am) River Lee Country Park Showground, Highbridge Street, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1AB £10 (10k), £5 (Fun Run) Giant Haystacks 17 July – 10am-2pm Three Mills Island, Three Mills Lane, London E3 3DU Join the annual management to improve the meadows and collect seeds to grow at home.

Free Paper-makers 20 July – 11am-2pm Waterworks Nature Reserve, Lammas Road (off Lea Bridge Road), Leyton, London E10 7QB. Booking required: 020 8988 7566 or waterworks@leevalleypark. org.uk Make paper using ingredients found in the nature reserve. £4 per child (must be with an adult) Top Dog 21 July – 9am-2pm Gunpowder Park, Sewardstone Road, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 3GP Drop in dog handling clinic.

Free Songs from the Shows 21 July – 6-8pm Myddelton House Gardens, Bulls Cross, Enfield EN2 9HG £7.50, Conc £6 International Horseball Competition 27-28 July – 10am-5pm Lee Valley Riding Centre, Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, London E10 7QL 080 8566 2629 Exciting equestrian sport, like basketball on horseback!

Free for spectators Family Cycle Ride 28 July – 10.30am-3pm River Lee Country Park (Old Mill & Meadows), Station Road, Broxbourne EN10 6LX A leisurely 15 miles. Free Wild About Wetlands 30 July – 10am-3.30pm Waltham Abbey Gardens, Abbey View, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1XQ Pond dipping, dragonfly hunts, natural arts & crafts and a treasure trail. Owls, bats & bees too! Free A Walk in the Park 4 Aug – 10.30am-12:30pm River Lee Country Park, Fishers Green Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF Explore the historical properties

of trees around Fishers Green Island. Free Survival Skills 10 Aug – 7-9pm Waterworks Nature Reserve, Lammas Road (off Lea Bridge Road), Leyton, London E10 7QB. Booking required: 020 8988 7566 Learn skills such as gathering; cooking; building shelters.

Children must be 8+ and with an adult. Free Kite making 17 Aug – 11am-2pm Waterworks Nature Reserve, Lammas Road (off Lea Bridge Road), Leyton, London E10 7QB. Booking required: 020 8988 7566 or waterworks@ leevalleypark.org.uk £4 per child (must be with an adult) Nocturnal Night 23 Aug – 7-10pm Waterworks Nature Reserve, Lammas Road (off Lea Bridge Road), Leyton, London E10 7QB. Booking required: 020 8988 7566 A walk around the filter beds to discover what creatures come out after dark. £5 per person B Mills and Wildlife Boon 24 Aug – 10am-2pm Three Mills Island, Three Mills Lane, London E3 3DU Help prepare the wildlife area for bulb and tree planting in the autumn. Install bat and bird boxes. Free Waterways World Outdoor Leisure Show 24-26 Aug – 10am-6pm River Lee Country Park Showground, Highbridge Street, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1AB Showcasing Britain’s great outdoors.

Advance tickets: 1 day £5-£9, 3 day £14-£20 LEE VALLEY BOATS Broxbourne Riverside Moorings, Nazeing Road, Broxbourne EN10 6QT. To book: 01992 462 085 leevalleyboats.co.uk Mammals Boat 7 Aug – 10am-12pm, 1-3pm Minibeasts Boat 28 Aug – 10am-12pm, 1-3pm Canal boat rides followed by games & crafts on land. £8.70 per person LYDEKKER PARK Sun Lane, Harpenden 01582 768278 www.harpenden.gov.uk

Teddy Bears Picnic 17 Aug – 11am-2pm Children's entertainer, face painting & bouncy castle. Free ROLLERCITY Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.welhat.gov.uk/campuswest Summer Holiday Skates 25 July-23 Aug, 27-30 Aug – 1-2.30pm & 3-4.30pm £5.25 per session SHENLEY PARK Radlett Lane, Shenley WD7 9DW 01923 852629 www.shenleypark.co.uk Treasure Island 14 July – 3pm. Workshop for 5-10 yrs – 1.30pm Open air family musical.

Children can wear their best pirate fashions for a photo with the cast. Advance via www. cambridgetouringtheatre.co.uk £12, Child £9, Family £38, Under 3s free. Workshop £3. On the gate £14, Child £11, Family £45 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 27 July – 7pm Young, vibrant theatre company, The Pantaloons perform this timeless comedy in their own distinctive and anarchic style. £12.50, Child (3 yrs+) £8, Family £35 Music to Watch the Flowers By 4 August – 12-6pm Family picnic concert. Children’s entertainment, BBQ. Bring your own picnic & drinks. £5, Child over 3 yrs £3. Save 10% through the Park Office (offer until the Fri before) ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL AL1 1BY 01727 860780 www.stalbanscathedral.org Family Discovery Mornings 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Aug – 10am-12.30pm Themed trails & crafts for ages 3-11. Register in the North Transept. Children must be with an adult. Free, donations gratefully received

FAIRS, FETES & FESTIVALS BENINGTON LORDSHIP CHILLI FESTIVAL Stevenage SG2 7BS 08701 261709 www.beningtonlordship.co.uk 25-26 Aug – 10am-5pm Chilli products & plants, delicious cooking & refreshments. £7.50, 12-16s £2.50, Under 12s free. Free parking

BLUES PRE-SCHOOL NURSERY SUMMER FAIR London Road, Bishop's Stortford CM23 3LU 01279 755422 www.bluespreschool.co.uk 7 July – 1-4pm

14 July – 10am-5pm Fun family day out with a Scottish flavour. The largest Gathering outside Scotland. £6 (£3 in advance). Under 16s free when with an adult

BOXMOOR COMMON St Johns Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1JY Carters Steam Fair www.carterssteamfair.co.uk More Info: 19-21 July – Fri 4-10pm, Sat 12-11pm, Sun 12-8pm Vintage travelling funfair.

HEARTWOOD SUMMER FESTIVAL Heartwood Forest, Sandridge www.woodlandtrust.org.uk 24 Aug – 11am-4pm Outdoor family day to celebrate woodland through art. Including Teddy Bears picnic 12.30pm (dress your bears as nature detectives!) and the Great Heartwood Bakeoff. Plus sleepover in the woods and bushcraft for £10 donation per person. Sleepover booking essential (07909 893545, christinajoachim@ woodlandtrust.org.uk)

CHORLEYWOOD CLASSIC & SUPERCAR SHOW The cricket square on Chorleywood Common www.chorleywoodclassics.org 27 July CLASSICS ON THE COMMON Harpenden Common www.classicsonthecommon.com 31 July – Cars arrive from 2pm Over 1,000 classic vehicles on display. Free to spectators COLNBROOK SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR Hayling Road, South Oxhey WD19 7UY 13 July – 11am-2pm Steam train ride, BBQ, bouncy castle, photographer & more. £1, children free CRABTREE SCHOOLS' SUMMER FAYRE Crabtree Lane, Harpenden AL5 5PU 6 July – 11.30am-2.30pm Hog roast, bouncy castle & stalls. £1 DACORUM STEAM & COUNTRY FAYRE Green Croft Farm, Potten End, Nr. Hemel Hempstead HP1 2SG www. dacorummachineryandsteam.co.uk 27 & 28 July – 10am-5pm £7, Child/Conc £4, Family £15 FLAMSTEAD SCARECROW FESTIVAL Flamstead is just off the A5, South of Luton and adjacent to Junction 9 of M1.

Satnav: AL3 8DE www.flamstead-herts.co.uk 16 Aug – 12-5pm, 17 Aug – 10am-6pm, 18 Aug – 10.30am-5pm Over 90 scarecrows - vote for your favourite!

Voting forms: £2, £5 for a family (max 4). Free parking HARPENDEN HIGHLAND GATHERING Rothamsted Park, Harpenden AL5 2HU 0845 833 7426 www.harpenden-lions.co.uk

HERTFORD CASTLE Castle Street, Hertford SG14 1HR 01992 552885 (Nikki) Wonderland 7 July – 12-4pm Alice in Wonderland themed event with rides & stalls. Live stage show 2pm. Free Community Sports Day 21 July – 12-4pm Try a range of sports and activities in the Castle grounds.

(Castle closed to visitors.) Free Rock at the Castle 4 August – 12.30-7.30pm Outdoor charity music festival featuring local bands. Bouncy castle, bar & food stalls.

(Hertford Castle closed to visitors.) Suggested donation £2 Open Air Band Concert and Tours 18 August – 2.30-5pm Traditional band concert from The Watford Band. Guided tours of the Castle. Free HOWLANDS BAPTIST CHURCH SUMMER FAIR The Commons, Welwyn Garden City AL7 4RS 6 July – 12-3pm Inflatables, BBQ, games, face painting. £1, children 50p NORTON OPEN GARDENS WALKABOUT Norton Village, Letchworth Garden City carol.greatorex@ sky.com 14 July – 2-6.30pm Approx. 20 gardens open. Cream teas.

Advance tickets £3.50 (from Bickerdikes Garden Centre & Norton Post Office), £4 on the day

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OAKLAND'S PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAIR Great North Road, Welwyn AL6 0PX 6 July – 11am-3pm Inflatables, displays, arts & crafts, stalls. £1, children free PLAY DAY 2013 Stanborough Park, South Lakes, Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6DQ 01707 357168 www.welhat.gov.uk/playday 7 Aug – 10am-4pm Sports; under 5s zone; bouncy castle; go karts; fishing workshops; music & dance; arts & crafts. Part of national event: www.playday.org.uk Free, some activities may charge.

Car park charges apply ROYSTON KITE FESTIVAL Therfield Heath, Royston www.roystonkitefestival.com 4 Aug – 10.30am-4.30pm Includes children’s entertainment, kite making competition and funfair. £2, children free. Free parking ST FRANCIS CHURCH FETE Church Road, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6HH 6 July – 2-5pm ST JOHN'S CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL FETE Hertford Road, Digswell, Welwyn AL6 0BX 6 July – 3-6pm SANDRINGHAM SUMMER FESTIVAL Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX 13 July – 4-9.30pm Live music; inflatables & games; shopping & food stalls; arts & crafts. Free entry WHEATHAMPSTEAD VILLAGE WEEKEND www.wheathampstead-pc.gov.uk 13-14 July 'Myths and Legends' theme.

Includes Village Day Parade from 1pm Sunday.

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