#Herts November 2018

# HERTS Su b-h eadin gs

November 2018

All t h e t op even t s an d f eat u r es in #Her t s

We select t h e best f ood an d dr in k in #Her t s

Au t u m n's on it s w ay an d w ildlif e is on t h e m ove

Select you r pick of t h e pan t os

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What's on in #Herts PANTO PICKS Have you book ed yet ?

FOOD IN #HERTS Sh ar on St r u ck m an visit s Ru m p an d Wade in Old St even age

ON SHOW New at Hen r y M oor e

CHRISTM AS PLANS? We f ocu s on t h e deligh t f u l Lau r a Ash ley Hot el Th e M an or

LORD LIEUTENANT Tim e w it h t h e police

UNLIM ITED FILM S

COVER STORY

Win Cin ew or ld t ick et s

Th e season s ar e ch an gin g an d w ildlif e is r espon din g

FOOD AND DRINK

Dining out at Rump and Wade in Old Stevenage This month we had the pleasure of dining out in Stevenage Old Town at the Rump & Wade Brasserie situated within the Cromwell Hotel.

It has been pleasantly decorated with comfortable seating; the wallpaper depicting the ?Cromwell era?with Cromwell himself, and many other famous faces from that period looking down upon you in wonder as your scrumptious food is served.

They have several starters all around £5.00 offering a vegetarian option. We opted for the Maldon sea salt and black pepper squid lemon aioli, sweet chilli sauce and rocket salad, which was cooked to perfection. My dining partner enjoyed Ham hock, chorizo and cheddar terrine, piccalilli and onion bread, which she exclaimed was definitely moorish. Other starters on the menu were, Soup of the day with warm bread (v) Baked feta with chilli and lemon, sundried

tomatoes, toasted pitta(v), Crab, chilli and fennel macaroni, onion crumb and Prawn and crayfish cocktail Marie rose, granny smith, and avocado.

We ordered their famous Shin of Beef at £13 and the Pork Belly was £12.50. I had the Slow cooked pork belly with apple slaw, roasted peach and

RUMP AND WADE HIGH STREET STEVENAGE. HERTFORDSHIRE SG1 3AZ PHONE: 01438 775888 EMAIL: info@rumpandwade.co.uk Websit e: www.rumpandwade.co.uk

sweet potato all cooked perfectly with just the right amount of seasoning and crackling that was faultless! The

Slow cooked shin of beef, baby onion, chestnut mushroom and pancetta sauce, celeriac mash and savoy cabbage were

mouth-watering to say the least. Some of the other mains included, Ale battered haddock crushed minted peas, sea salt

All pict ur es by Shar on St r uckm an

chips, homemade tartar sauce, and crispy capers (Also available without batter). Their new big seller, roast spatchcock chicken with rosemary and garlic, roasted new potatoes or fries, coleslaw and salad, chargrilled tuna steak, niçoise, sundried tomato, lemon, feta, courgette and spinach linguine, parmesan and rocket crisp (v) wild mushroom and asparagus pie, chive cream sauce, sweet potato wedges, green beans (v We were already full but how can anyone resist pudding!

From apple and mixed berry crumble with vanilla custard (v) chocolate brownie salted caramel ice cream with chocolate sauce (v) gin and grapefruit parfait with mint granite and biscotti, chocolate honeycomb and salted caramel sundae or the traditional sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and gingerbread ice cream. They also offer an English cheese board of 3 cheeses, frozen grapes, fig and honey chutney with crackers, all around £5 £7.50.

Personally, I do not like grapefruit, but they guaranteed the gin and grapefruit parfait with mint granite and biscotti was delicious, so being the foodie that I am, I gave it a try.

The different textures from the crunchy mint granite to the smooth and soft grapefruit parfait, I was in pudding heaven! We also tried the chocolate brownie salted caramel ice cream and chocolate sauce (v), which was

also delectable.

Rump and Wade is going from strength to strength and its place on the High Street in the Old Town is the place to have a quick brunch or dinner for that special occasion. They cook good, honest, flavourful food that is British at its heart.

They pride themselves in offering seasonal dishes that are locally sourced where possible and work closely with Stickleback fish suppliers in Welham Green to ensure they have the pick of the market as soon as the boats come in. They home smoke their own salmon and source their pork from Dingley Dell Farm which has a superb reputation for producing the highest quality meat.

You can see that their chefs have a passion for cooking and creating delicious unusual dishes. Offering amazing value for money on their normal priced menu, but they also have daily offers which makes it

affordable for everyone.

Tuesday night sees a free dessert with every main course purchased and Wednesday sees ?Burger night?where you can enjoy a drink included in the price of a burger. Thursday you get a free bottle of wine if you order two steaks and Prosecco Friday sees a bottle of fizz for only £15.

As Christmas is nearly upon us, they have already started taking bookings from 2-20 and have a separate festive menu where they are offering 3 courses for £25. Pre-booking is required. The hotel will be running its ever-popular Party nights in the Cromwell Suite with returning artists Vicky Jackson, Michael Clews, Live Wires and Uche Eke. Some nights sold out many weeks ago, so you must book early to get in!

The next time you?re looking for a new place to dine, Rump and Wade will not disappoint!

So much to see and do in #Herts whether the weather is good or not M y #Her t s by Dar r en Ist ed Confession time - from where I live in #Herts you can see the planes from a host of airlines as they make their final descent earthwards or ascent skywards as they head to and from Luton airport.

Many's the time I've looked up, during the day and in darker hours, in warm weather and when it's cold, and thought what fun it would be to be on one of those planes - not heading home of course, but setting off.

Of course with the myriad of routes now available at very low cost, one could be heading off to Europe and beyond and at any time of the year could be preparing to land in a country which may well be sub zero or roasting in 40deg and above.

But just think about it for a minute. The experience of having that pre-flight drink at the airport may be pleasurable enough - and even buying some excess(ive) duty free which you may not require is all part of the jolly mood, but what about the queue to get on the plane, the flight which may be delayed and the journey at the other end?

This is then doubled when you return, the loss of a day from anywhere in the world as you make it to the airport, check in, wait for the flight, get to the airport in the UK, get through and then get home again.

Such thoughts occur to me as I watch these planes from the glorious #Herts countryside. We live in such an amazing county, country even for that matter, why not make the most of what we have to offer here?

For four days during the summer I hosted a family of relations from Australia. They had already spent two nights in London and hated it! So could we please them with a more relaxed stay? Of course we could.

With the exception of a punt on the Cam, we stayed ultra local, and what a great time they had.

While I visited Perth at the turn of the year (their home city) and enjoyed every minute of it, they were blown away by what we had to offer. Visits to Knebworth House, the house, Stableyard and garden of Hatfield House, St Albans Cathedral, the market and of course Ye Olde Fighting Cocks. We also crammed in meals at The Boot, Kimpton and the Rusty Gun just outside of Hitchin. They were amazed and so was I. We really do have so much to enjoy on our doorstep - so whatever the weather, lets leave the airport alone and get our walking boots on.

Celebrate Christmas in style at Laura Ashley Hotel The Manor Imagine spiced mulled wine, decadent festive feasts, and warm mince pies in a plush armchair by the fire.

From mouth-watering dining and glamorous parties to a memorable Christmas mini break with all the trimmings, make this year one to remember - and let us take care of the rest.

Our peaceful setting in 10 acres of beautiful gardens and woodland provides the perfect backdrop for a winter wonderland with views of the London skyline twinkling in the distance. Stay with us from Christmas Eve until Boxing Day, and experience the magic from the moment you arrive, with endless delicious treats in sparkling Laura Ashley designer surroundings. At

Christmas time, Laura Ashley The Manor is draped in stunning festive dĂŠcor from floor to ceiling, creating a truly magical Christmas atmosphere, especially when the lawns are glittering with frost and cool champagne is being poured to welcome you into the warmth.

For Christmas parties and festive family gatherings, dine in our award-winning Cavendish Restaurant, where you can feast on our mouth-watering festive menu, sip on fine wines, and enjoy what will be a holiday hideaway experience.

The Main Event

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great events to catch in #Herts

Dark Art s at Warner Bros.

St udio Tour London- The Making of Harry Pot t er 28TH SEPTEMBER - 11TH NOVEMBER 2018 Throughout the Hallowe?en season, visitors will discover the filmmaking secrets behind the wizarding world?s Dark Arts. The iconic Great Hall set will be decorated with over 100 pumpkins suspended from the ceiling as well as a Hallowe?en feast dressing the long tables.

Visitors are invited to try out their wand combat moves against Death Eaters in a live duel demonstrating how battle scenes were directed, all before walking down a darker, spookier Diagon Alley.

19 ? 21 Oct ober | Cooking and Carafes at Bet hnal & Bec Join us for a weekend filled with Italian food and wine to ignite your culinary senses in the breathtaking surroundings of Bethnal & Bec. Together, we?ve created a two day cooking course where you?ll learn how to make pizza and pasta from scratch, along with simple but traditional Italian sauces that are packed full of flavour.

On arrival a foodie welcome gift from Filippo Berio will be waiting for you, so your weekend starts as we mean it to go on.

Enjoy an aperitivo and sharing platters as we talk through the

menu of the day for Saturday.

You?ll then make a three course lunch using local produce, fresh eggs from Bluebell (Bethnal & Bec?s resident hen) and other quality ingredients. As you take a seat in what was once the dairy of the Cottered Farmhouse, you?ll taste perfectly paired wines with each dish.

Check out on the Sunday, and before you leave get ready to knead! You?ll make pizzas for lunch and pasta to take home with you.

Book your st ay t oday by calling Bet hnal & Bec on 07790 901051 or email me kat e@cookingandcarafes.co.uk ÂŁ570 per couple includes a 2

The Main Event

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great events to catch in #Herts

night stay and 2 day cookery course. See the full itinerary on our Facebook event Privat e Peaceful 25 Oct ober, 19:30 26 Oct ober, 10:30 (Schools performance) Commemorating the 100th year anniversary of the end of World War One, Private Peaceful relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. During the night he looks back at his short but joyful past growing up in rural Devon: his exciting first days at school; the accident in the forest that killed his father; his adventures with Molly, the

love of his life; and the battles and injustices of war that brought him to the front line.

Winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year, Private Peaceful is by the third Children?s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo. His inspiration came from a visit to Ypres where he was shocked to discover how many young soldiers were court-martialled and shot for cowardice during the First World War. ?Private Peaceful at the theatre is a moving experience that not only tells the story of a young soldier?s final day in World War One, but perhaps more importantly conveys the strength of human spirit.?? Michael Morpurgo.

has extended his UK tour for the fourth time due to overwhelming demand!

Omid is intelligent, sometimes provocative and always entertaining. His stand-up is a hugely energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. His credits range from Hollywood to television, the West End Stage to his critically acclaimed performance as Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof.

This performance will include a fantastic support act.

OMID DJALILI Sat urday Oct ober 27 Let chwort h Broadway Award winning comedian and actor Omid Djalili, known for his legendary stand-up performances,

Tickets ÂŁ24 Runtime 95mins Fest ival of Light , Monday 29 Oct ober For one night only we will be

The Main Event

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great events to catch in #Herts

illuminating part of Tring Park for a truly magical evening. See the trees in a different light, with floodlit branches and striking shadows. A brand new feature will come to this year?s festival of light, a secret symphony. Think silent disco, but with sounds of the woods that you haven?t heard before. All to be finished with a hot chocolate around a campfire.

Various time slots are available from 17:30-20:30. Advanced booking is strongly recommended as this is a popular event and tickets are limited.

Ave, WD17 3PD (120 spaces, open from 5.45pm) - Fullerians Rugby club, Coningesby Drive, WD17 3PB - Sun Sports & Social Club, Bellmount Wood Ave, WD17 3BN 11 November funfair rides, bungee trampolines and a bouncy slide.

3pm

The event is FREE so please give generously to the volunteers who will be collecting on behalf of local charities.

West on Audit orium

Cassiobury Fireworks

To keep everyone safe no sparklers, fireworks or alcohol are allowed in t he park.

3 November 2018, from 6pm

Getting to the park:

Cassiobury Park

There is NO PARKING in the Gade Avenue car park from 3pm, apart from a limited number of blue badge spaces, which are available on a first come first served basis. There are also parking restrictions on surrounding roads to the park from 7am to 11pm, so you are advised to park in one of the public car parks in the town centre.

Join us in Cassiobury Park at Hertfordshire's largest FREE fireworks display. The event is organised by Watford Borough Council with support from Vibe 107.6FM who compere the stage.

There will be entertainment and live performances on stage.

Our huge bonfire will be lit at 7pm followed by a spectacular firework display at 7.30pm.

There will be a variety of food and drink outlets, kiddies

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Car parking, at £5 per car, is available at the following locations: -

Cassiobury Junior School, Bellmount Wood

Admission £18, £15 concessions To mark the centenary of the end of the First World War, the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra presents this unique and profoundly moving concert featuring music composed by Butterworth, Gurney and Vaughan Williams around the time of the Great War. Violinist Savitri Grier returns for a performance of Vaughan Williams??The Lark Ascending?, and works by wartime contemporaries George Butterworth & Ivor Gurney epitomise rural life in England at the time of this ?war to end all wars?. The concert ends with Vaughan Williams?Pastoral Symphony, dramatically interpreted in live paintings by James Mayhew and interwoven with classic war poetry.

Hunton Park launches secret party event The Mercure London North Watford Hunton Park Hotel hosted a Secret Garden Party recently, to celebrate the launch of their new Garden Marquee, one of the largest event spaces within 20 miles of Central London.

Guests were invited to attend the event to view the marquee which can accommodate up to 500 guests for a seated banquet and 700 guests theatre style. The marquee was decorated for the event by Dress It Yourself, and different themes were created, including Christmas, Meetings, Weddings and Teambuilding.

Guests enjoyed canapes provided by recommended caterer, Premier Banqueting and themed food bites by Hunton Park?s own team of chefs. In the Christmas area guests indulged in traditional Christmas dinner bites with brussel leaf and cranberries, and mini fish and chips, sushi, crab, avocado & gazpacho and scallops with black pudding in the other themed areas.

Guests also enjoyed themed cocktails including Rose in the Clouds, Aviator, Baby Bellini and Elderflower Fizz.

Tours were provided of the Hazelwood Suite event space which is currently being refurbished and the exciting latest addition to their bedroom collection ? a family suite with a famous wizard theme ? Hunton Park is located just 5 minutes from Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour.

A real highlight of the event was the entertainment which really embraced the secret garden party theme. There was a unicorn on arrival, woodland creatures including two flower fairies, a tree stilt walker and a faun, as well as the Hedgemen who were a huge hit with guests. Guests were also kept

entertained by magicians Lee Smith and Luke Clough, by Zing Events who provided garden games and by young, modern musical duet, Acoustik.

Stewart Graham, General Manager said, ?The launch of our brand-new Garden Marquee wasa huge success, and I want to thank everyone who took their time to attend our Secret Garden themed party. I wasincredibly proud of my team and I wasreally pleased to hear so many positive commentsof Hunton Park Hotel after itsjourney over the past year.

We received fantastic feedback from each of the guests regarding the new space, and we were able to unveil the exciting addition of our new family suite.

We will be updating guestsand clients

soon on the extension to our Hazelwood Suite, which will be completed next month.?

Mercure London North Watford Hunton Park Hotel is part of the Accor Hotels Mercure brand portfolio and is managed by Countrywide Hotels. The hotel is in Kings Langley, near Watford, 15 minutes by train from Central London and just off the M1 and M25. It has 61 bedrooms, a restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool, 18-hole pitch and putt course, croquet lawn and 22 events spaces including the beautiful Orangery, Terrace Marquee and new Garden Marquee. The grand Garden Marquee has a spacious entrance hall and a unique curved structure, one of only five of its kind in Europe. It is beautifully decorated with a suspended hardwood floor, elegant pleated ivory lining on the walls, an ivory LED star cloth ceiling canopy and 14 twinkling chandeliers.

For further information on Hunton Park Hotel please visit www.huntonparkhotel.com

Understanding the full implications of Lasting Powers of Attorney W hy have a Last ing Powers of At t orney ? Tollers are here t o help.

We would all like to imagine that we will always be capable of managing our affairs, but what happens if through mental or physical impairment we cannot? Planning ahead is essential and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA?s) are a vital part of the process.

The team at Tollers Solicitors Stevenage are experienced in assisting and guiding our clients through the process of making an LPA to ensure their wishes are respected.

Here they answer some common questions concerning Lasting Powers of Attorney: Q: W hat is a Last ing Power of At t orney?

A: A Lasting Power of Attorney (?LPA?) is a document appointing a person (an ?Attorney?) to manage the affairs of another person (the ?Donor?) and can continue to have effect even when the Donor has lost mental capacity.

Q: Are t here different t ypes of LPA? A: Yes - there are two different types of LPA: Lasting Power of Attorney for finance and property The Property and Financial Affairs LPA usually relates to dealings in respect of the Donor?s house, bank accounts shares etc. It can remain in effect if the person it relates to loses mental capacity at a later date.

If someone owns a business or has an interest in a business they can also make an LPA to appoint a suitable

application would normally be made when all parties have signed.

Q: Are t here safeguards?

A: The advantage of an LPA is that the Donor chooses the people to manage their affairs (the Attorneys). The Ch r is Lu cas an d Sh ar on Br ow n f r om t h e Toller s St even age of f ice can h elp w it h LPA's Donor can also include within the LPA person to make decisions concerning binding instructions or non-binding their business interests when they are advice for their Attorneys. There is unavailable or lack mental capacity. also provision for family members to be notified that the LPA is being Lasting Power of Attorney for health registered. and care The Health and Welfare LPA relates to decisions such as where the Donor lives, life-sustaining treatment, medical decisions, medication and social care.

Q: W hen can an individual make an LPA? A: If someone has mental capacity they can make an LPA at any time. If they lack mental capacity then someone else cannot make an LPA on their behalf but instead an application would need to be made to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship Order.

Q: Can t he Donor st ill manage t heir own affairs?

A: If an LPA is in place the Donor can still manage their own affairs providing the Donor has mental capacity. If the Donor loses mental capacity the appointed Attorneys will then take over the management of the Donors affairs.

Q: W hat happens if t he Donor dies?

Q: Can an LPA be used as soon as it has been signed?

A: If the Donor dies the LPA automatically comes to an end. The Attorney should send the original LPA and the death certificate to the Office of the Public Guardian as soon as possible.

A: No. An LPA must be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian (the government body who administer LPAs) before it can be used. An

Talk t o Tollers and find out how we can assist you t o put t hese import ant document s in place, by cont act ing t he t eam on 01438 901095.

Pick your panto please!

Snow W hit e and t he Seven Dwarfs

Website Snow W hit e and t he Seven Dwarfs

The Gordon Craig Theat re, St evenage Art s & Leisure Cent re, Lyt t on Way, St evenage, SG1 1LZ 30th Nov 2018 to 27th Jan 2019 Starring Matt Lapinskas (Eastenders & Dancing on Ice) Hannah-Jane Fox (CBBC's Millie Inbetween), Stevenage's favourite Dame Paul Laidlaw and back by popular demand Aidan O'Neill.

Harpenden Public Halls, Sout hdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PD 8t h Dec 2018 t o 30t h Dec 2018 This enchanting fairytale of magic and joy will captivate audiences of all ages and is the perfect festive treat for the whole family. With spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects and plenty of audience participation.

Website The Ast onishing Advent ures of Pinocchio Hert ford Theat re, Hert ford Theat re, The Wash, Hert ford, SG14 1PS 1st Dec 2018 t o 6t h Jan 2019 Chock full of sensational, splintering songs; bursting with beautifully turned dances and packed to the rafters with timber-splitting fun: The Astonishing Adventures of Pinocchio is a wood-not-miss Christmas present for all the family!

Website Sant a Claus and The Magical Christ mas Journey Wat ford Colosseum, Rickmanswort h Rd, Wat ford W D17 3JN 1st Dec 2018 t o 24t h Dec 2018 It's Christmas Eve, and Santa Claus is flying high above the clouds delivering presents to all the good boys and girls around the world. Hiding in the back are two naughty elves, Charlie and Kara, who have snuck on-board for the ride?!

Website

Hert s AL1 3LD 6t h Dec 2018 t o 6t h Jan 2019 St. Albans' favourite Bob Golding is back (and this time he's wearing the trousers), with a star studded cast soon to be announced.

Snow W hit e and t he Seven Dwarfs Wat ersmeet Theat re, High St reet , Rickmanswort h, Hert s W D3 1EH 7t h Dec 2018 t o 31st Dec 2018 Sam Attwater (EastEnders, Dancing on Ice) as Prince Simon. Join us on a magical adventure to meet a Wicked Queen with a jealous streak and a handsome prince who's searching for the fairest of all damsels in distress.

Website

Aladdin The Radlet t Cent re, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlet t , Hert fordshire, W D7 8HL 8t h Dec 2018 t o 3rd Jan 2019

The Spot light Theat re, High St reet , Hoddesdon, Hert s EN11 8BE 14t h Dec 2018 t o 31st Dec 2018 Starring kid's TV legend Dave Benson Phillips Packed full of fabulous tunes, stunning dancing, fabulous costumes plus lots of festive sparkle and chances to join in, this is going to be one Christmas panto not to miss.

Website Jack and t he Beanst alk W yllyot t s Theat re, W yllyot t s Place, Darkes Lane, Pot t ers Bar, Hert s EN6 2HN 15t h Dec 2018 t o 6t h Jan 2019 This year's magical extravaganza once again promises you live music, stunning sets, sensational costumes, slick choreography and spectacular music.

Don?t miss out on another Wyllyotts hit!

Website

Classic panto tale of the boy who finds a magic lamp. Open sesame!

Aladdin

Website

Hawt horne Theat re, The Campus, Welwyn Garden Cit y, Hert s AL8 6AE 15t h Dec 2018 t o 6t h Jan 2019

Beaut y and t he Beast

Website

Rhodes Art s Complex, 1-3 Sout h Road, Bishop's St ort ford, Hert fordshire CM23 3JG 8t h Dec 2018 t o 5t h Jan 2019

Cinderella

Classic panto tale of Belle and the Beast.

The Alban Arena, Civic Cent re St Albans

Dick W hit t ingt on

Website

Jack and t he Beanst alk Wat ford Palace Theat re, Clarendon Road, Wat ford, W D17 1JZ 5t h Dec 2018 t o 5t h Jan 2019 A lavish spectacle with live musicians on stage, stunning sets and costumes, song, dance and slapstick, performed straight from the heart by a talented company of new faces and Palace favourites.

Website

Starring Welwyn Garden City's favourite Dame, Michael Totton. Packed with songs, silliness, audience participation for the whole family and all the fairytale magic of traditional pantomime!

Senga Nengudi set for Henry Moore exhibition The first solo institutional exhibition of the work of Senga Nengudi outside the United States, this exhibition brings together pioneering work from 1969 to the present, alongside a new installation.

Born in Chicago in 1943, Nengudi has been a trailblazer in sculpture for fifty years. A vital figure in the African American avant-garde scenes of Los Angeles and New York in the 1960s and 1970s, her work is characterised by a persistently radical experimentation with material and form.

Building upon a legacy of abstraction, Nengudi is a leading figure of Postminimalism making sculpture embedded with human, philosophical and spiritual concern. Her assimilation of traditional African forms and Japanese Gutai within Western Modernism has also been especially significant.

Among Nengudi?s earliest works are the ?Untitled (Water Composition)? sculptures from the late 1960s /1970s. Unseen for forty years, a number have been recreated especially for this exhibition. Made from heat-sealed transparent vinyl and filled with coloured water, their abstract forms rest on the floor, on plinths or are fixed to a wall.

Undermining the static and industrial tendencies of Minimalist sculpture, the water sculptures instead hang and flop with the weight of a body, mimicking flesh while responding to the viewer?s touch.

Much of Nengudi?s work has been informed by her long-standing interested in spiritual rituals across cultures and the use of objects. ?Ceremony for Freeway Fets?(1978)

comprises eleven photographs documenting a performance Nengudi initiated with David Hammons (b.

1943), Maren Hassinger (b. 1947) and members of the Studio Z collective at a Los Angeles freeway underpass. The performance incorporated many different objects Nengudi constructed out of what became her signature material ? nylon tights. Other photographs, including the triptych ?Performance Piece?(1978), show Hassinger, a long-time collaborator and choreographer, interacting with the R.S.V.P. sculptures, perhaps Nengudi?s best known body of work.

Significant examples from the R.S.V.P. series will be included. Begun in 1975, they are made with nylon tights.

Stretched, knotted, filled with sand and mounted on the wall or between opposing walls, Nengudi has referred to these sculptures as ?abstracted reflections of used bodies?.Of great influence to artists more recently, they remain powerful, yet humble, icons of the triumphs and traumas of the human body, especially the female body: Nengudi initiated the series after becoming pregnant.

Also included is ?Bulemia?, a room-filling installation made from

collected and overpainted newspaper, unseen since its original presentation in 1990, and a new ?Sandmining? installation made for this exhibition.

Building upon a series begun in the 1990s, the ?Sandmining?is shown alongside elements from the Wet Night ? Early Dawn ? Scat Chant ? Pilgrim?s Song series from the same decade. The two bodies of work explore the artist?s long-standing interest in the commonalities of different belief systems and pilgrimage.

Offering the most expansive overview of Nengudi?s practice to date and shedding light on the work of a figure fundamental to Postminimalism, this exhibition asserts Nengudi?s vital position within a generation of artists who redefined the possibilities of sculpture and representations of race and gender while drawing upon a tradition of abstraction.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a special edition of the Institute?s Essayson Sculpture series with contributions by Laurence Sillars, Head of Henry Moore Institute Programmes and curator of the exhibition; Whitney Battle-Baptiste, Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Adelaide Bannerman, London-based artist and curator.

HERTFORDSHIRE FOOD AND DRINK by Sharon Struckman

Businesses show star quality in top awards HERTFORDSHIRE FOOD AND DRINK BUSINESSES BRING HOME 46 STARS FROM THE ?GREAT TASTE AWARDS 2018? ?Congratulations?you have made us proud!

Great Taste is organised by the Guild of Fine Food and is the acknowledged benchmark for fine food and drink. It has been described as the ?Oscars?of the food world and the ?epicurean equivalent of the Booker Prize?.

Quite simply the Great Taste logo is the sign you can trust when buying food and drink at your local retail outlets.

In 2018 over 500 judges, including specially trained food writers inputting judges? comments, came together at 65 judging days from March through to early July. Judging took place at Guild HQ in Dorset and at their permanent office, event and judging venue close to Borough Market in London. Judging at specialist test centres for tea, filter coffee and espresso. The judges, from all corners of the food world, blind-taste in teams of 3 or 4 ensuring they get a balance of expertise, age and gender.

Winning is important to the producers as it differentiates their products from the norm and means you, as the customer, have a guarantee that the products you buy have

a reliable seal of approval based upon great taste and not marketing.

The winners are all genuine food people who care about the quality of food and drink they produce. Those producers entered 12,634 products with only 192 foods achieving the highest and most coveted rating, three stars. They had 1,207 foods grabbing 2 stars

and 3,254 were awarded a 1 star. That means only 37% of entries were accredited ? it?s tough but our Hertfordshire producers did exceptionally well.

Bringing home three gold stars for their Brazilian Chilli and Coconut Sauce, a magnificent achievement by Ben Jackson and his team at Capsicana Ltd based in Hitchin.

Twist Teas followed with two stars for their Passionfruit and Rose tea and a phenomenal six more, one-star awards for their Chamomile Yawn, Summer Berries, After Eat, Mint Humbug, Mint Choc Chip and Banana Shake teas.

Funky Elephant Tandoori Marinade Paste by Funky Elephant, Nourishingly Nutty

by Dizzy Bee Kitchen, Chili Jam

by Crumbs 'n' All Caribbean Cakes & Chutneys, Pure Ceylon Green Tea by Mortier's Fine Tea, Chocolate Buttercream Cake by My Little Cake Tin were also outstanding, all being awarded two stars.

Lulu Coffee Roasters Ltd from Ware trumped home with two stars for their Type B Espresso and one-star awards for their Northwest Espresso, Stag Espresso, High street Espresso and Jaffa Cakes - Decaf espresso.

Ruci - Taste of Sri Lanka Ceylon Mix by RUCI Foods and Lean Caffeine Mycotoxin Free Swiss Water Decaffeinated by Lean Caffeine each winning one star.

Another great achievement was from Woodford & Warner Ltd winning two, one-star awards for their Sorrel & Citrus drink and Sorrel & Citrus Cordial.

Hibiscus Lily Ltd won a star for their Hibiscus & Pomegranate Jelly and Beechwood Fine Foods Ltd won a star for their delicious Apricot jam and Cranberry and Redcurrent sauce.

Bourbon Select and Espresso reserve were each awarded a star, produced by The Hessian Coffee Company.

Dark Sea Salt Chocolate Almonds by Amelie Chocolat

and Gooseberry and Orange Jam by Twee also awarded one star.

Traditional Free-Range Bronze Turkey by Potash Farm Foods, Organic Darjeeling - "Delicate Collection" and Organic Jasmine Pearls -"Delicate Collection" by Hope and Glory, English Saffron by English Saffron. My Little Cake Tin was also awarded one star for their "Berry Nutty" Granola. The final one-star winners were The Walnut Tree for their glace apricots, Old Vodka. Premium, plain, produced by Old Vodka.

Pesvebi Ltd and last but not least, Chocolate & Raspberry Brownies by The Choc Spot.

By Sharon Struckman www.whatishootieat.co.uk

Her majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss CBE

Finding just what an excellent job the police do to keep us all safe I have been fortunate to recently spend two days with the police in Hertfordshire as well as a third day with the ?Mini Police?.

On day one I spent some time in the huge and very impressive Force Communication Room (FCR) at Welwyn HQ. The volume and variety of both 999 and 101 calls coming in from all over Hertfordshire is overwhelming and the manner and speed with which the calls are taken, assessed, handled and dispatched by the highly experienced team is most impressive.

After sitting in on a briefing it was out on patrol in the cars. Much as I enjoyed speeding down the A1 at well over 100 mph ?blue light flashing and siren sounding-I soon realised what a vital yet difficult job the ?boys and girls in blue?do 365 days a year. They face danger and intimidation every day yet need to be approachable and aware of individual situations all the time. In one evening I realised that they have no idea what will face them whenever they start their shift.

The manner in which they patiently yet firmly handled a number of tricky situations on my one night ?on duty?made me appreciate the difficult yet rewarding job these men and women do.

My second day was again in the FCR but this time with the Mental

Health Triage Team listening to incoming calls and then out to an incident of a young man threatening to commit suicide.

The compassion and care shown by the team-especially the mental health nurse assigned to the police-managed to defuse the situation and have the young man helped with future counselling.

This part of policing is vital as I was told that up to 25% of incidents

involve people with potential mental health issues whose cases can bypass the judicial system and be dealt with by the Mental Health Trusts-saving time, money and a lot of anguish.

Finally a day with the Mini Police-primary school children who have spent several weeks learning about the police and ?helping?with their duties. It was a pleasure to see them all receive their awards at Welwyn HQ-and more importantly meet the police dogs? !

Despite some obvious challenges-I can now begin to appreciate what a wonderful job the police do to protect the people of Hertfordshire.

#Herts based Old Vodka is winning taste The Old Vodka awards cabinet is growing. The authentic Hertfordshire brand based on a Georgian recipe has scooped a Gold Star for their ?Old Vodka?at Great Taste Awards and the Quality Food Awards 2018.

Old Vodka has a fantastic selection of premium vodkas, 11 in total, from Caramel, Coffee, Rhubarb to passionfruit, they have a taste to titillate any discerning vodka palate. Enjoy chilled, over ice, as a shot or in a cocktail. All their Vodkas are available in 700ml, 200ml and 50ml bottles and gift sets of two and three bottles, a perfect gift for any occasion or even at Christmas.

Great Taste, the Oscars for food and drink, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, is the world's largest and most trusted food and drink awards for the fine food and drink industry. Over 400 judges blind tasted 12,500 products, each one vying for one, two or three stars.

Their Premium Vodka is handcrafted using local spring water and quality ingredients. Making small batches which are triple filtered ensures an exceptional taste.

The judge?s comments were as follows: A very well-made vodka with a pleasing taste Merab Salamashbili, is the third-generation grandson to Mate Salamashvili, and is now producing his treasured 200-year-old family recipe from his Hertfordshire base distillery at Church Farm, Ardeley.

He believes that Great Britain is a

Phone: +44 (0)1438 861 777 Email: info@oldvodka.co.uk www.oldvodka.co.uk Pesvebi Ltd. Church Farm, Ardeley, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG2 7AH

place of freedom and opportunity, where skilled people and ambitious businesses are encouraged and can succeed. ?It?s great to see that people enjoy our vodkas so much - and appreciate all the passion that goes into making them. Old Vodka is fast becoming the top brand for quality and taste," he said.

Make the most of the Unlimited Card to enjoy Cineworld benefits ENJOY UNLIMITED FILMS Watch all the films you can handle at any Cineworld for just one monthly fee SAVE ON SNACKS AND DRINKS Get 10% off all in-cinema food and drink. Plus get 10% off at Cineworld Starbucks licensed stores.

ACCESS TO PREVIEWS Be the first to see a movie with special Unlimited member advance screenings SAVE ON EVENT CINEMA We don?t just show movies. You can also get selected discounts on live Opera, National Theatre, live sport and gigs PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP After a year we?ll upgrade you to a premium membership for free, giving you 25% off in-cinema food

and drink and unlimited 3D movies at no extra cost

Start enjoying Unlimited films and great offers

RECOMMEND A FRIEND

Unlimit ed: How t o apply in person

Unlimited members can get free months of membership when they recommend Unlimited to their friends!

Step 1 Visit one of our Cineworld cinemas Step 2

Unlimit ed: How t o apply online Step 1 Make sure you have your bank details and a recent passport photo Step 2 Complete the easy application process and use your temporary pass straight away Step 3 We will post your Unlimited card to you Step 4

Find a member of staff or use a sign up tablet in cinema Step 3 Complete the easy application process and use your temporary pass to start enjoying Unlimited movies Step 4 Start enjoying Unlimited and related offers We are delight ed t o t eam up wit h Cineworld St evenage t o offer you t he chance t o win five pairs of 2D t icket s t o any film (subject t o availabilit y).

To ent er simply t weet @hasht aghert s using t he hasht ag #Hert scineworldcomp

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Topreleasesfor theupcomingmonths

God save the Queen!

Bohemian Rhapsody

its distributor.

Bohemian Rhapsody is a biographical film about the rock band Queen, focusing on charismatic singer Freddie Mercury's life and leading up to Queen's Live Aid performance in 1985.

There was plenty of pre-release publicity about the film when In December 2017, director Bryan Singer was fired for absence and clashing with the cast and crew; this led toDexter Fletcher being hired to complete the film. Filming concluded in January 2018.

The remarkable performance was filmed by developing a replica of the Live Aid stage in #Herts and complete with a cast of extras.

A British and American venture it is produced by 20th Century Fox, New Regency, GK Films and Queen Films, with Fox serving as

It stars Rami Malek as Mercury, with Lucy Boynton, Gwilym Lee, Ben Hardy, Joseph Mazzello, Aidan Gillen, Tom Hollander, Allen Leech, and Mike Myers in supporting roles.

Jekyll and Hyde tale starring Tom Hardy Venom

Tom Hardy takes centre stage in this Marvel Comics tale of the character of the same name.

Hardy plays journalist Eddie Brock who, after a scandal, attempts to revive his career by investigating the Life Foundation. In the course of his investigation he comes into contact with an alien symbiote with whom he forms a bond, giving him superpowers as long as they share the same body.

Hardy plays both roles and He gave each a distinctive voice: an "aw-shucks American accent" for Brock; and a James Brown "lounge lizard"-like voice for Venom.

Directed by Ruben Fleischer, starring Tom Hardy and Michelle Williams as Anne Weying, a district attorney and Eddie's girlfriend.

Cinewor ld St evenage: 0871 200 2000 www.cineworld.co.uk Br oadway Let chwor t h: 01462 681088 www.broadway-cinema.com Odyssey St Albans: 01727 453088

www.odysseypictures.co.uk Royst on Pict ur e Palace info@roystonpicturepalace. org.uk roystonpicturepalace.org.uk The Rex Ber kham st ed 01442 877759 therexberkhamsted.com

5

Clock w ise: Con k er by Am y Lew is; Balls Wood by Ch ar lot t e Hu ssey an d h edgeh og

by Tom M ar sh all

Nature on the move as seasons start to change The changing seasons As summer begins to give way to autumn, change is afoot and nowhere is this more apparent than when we look to nature.

It?s always an exciting time when days start to cool down, nights get shorter and leaves start to turn golden brown.

There?s something magical in the air; an anticipation for changes ahead and a whole host of fun activities best enjoyed

wrapped up - fireworks night, Halloween and, if we?re lucky, snowball fights!

It?s often the transitionary seasons that put on the best show for nature too; as wildlife awakens for spring with a burst of colour and life, so it winds down for winter with similar vitality. If you know where to look, autumn can be a valuable season for wildlife spotting.

Migrat ion Autumn is a fantastic time to witness mass migrations as up to 50% of UK birds head towards sunnier shores, or conversely arrive to our comparatively warmer shores.

Keep your eyes peeled for redwings in the fields and hedgerows, wetland birds including golden eye, pochard and goosander at our wetland

reserves, like Tring Reservoirs and Rye Meads, and roving flocks of our native birds grouping together for safety as the leafy canopy reduces and food becomes scarcer. Flocks can vary from 10 birds to over 100 in exceptional circumstances, such as when starlings gather together in large murmurations.

Mammals and insect s Our local wildlife such as hedgehogs and dormice are all busy filling up on food to get ready for the cold weather.

Keep an eye where food sources, like fruit, nuts and insects, are plentiful to be in with the best chance of seeing these animals before they hibernate over winter. Insects that are so prolific over the summer, such as butterflies and ladybirds, will now start to venture inside, finding a suitable spot to sleep over winter.

Trees, plant s and fungi.

Ter r y Wh it t ak er

forget the joy of finding a perfect shiny, rich brown conker at their feet during autumn walks in Hertfordshire?

Head to one of our woodland nature reserves like Balls Wood or Gobions Wood to see waxy green leaves turn crisp and fiery in colour. The pallet of orange and red fluttering in the breeze, and the crunch of leaves under foot is one of autumn greatest pleasures.

October is also the perfect time to find fallen conkers from horse chestnut trees; who can

Visit Tewin Orchard on 7t h Oct ober for you own t ast e of aut umn at Hert s and Middlesex W ildlife Trust ?s Apple Day. The free event runs from 12:00-4.30pm and will offer guided walks, children?s act ivit ies and of course lot s of apples!

Above: Hedgeh og by Tom M ar sh all Below dor m ou se by

Keeping the Harwood grounds beautiful When you have a 25-acre memorial garden there?s always plenty of work to be done ? even when the weather is hot, hot, hot! And we?re so lucky that Harwood Park Memorial Gardens is kept looking so lovely all year round thanks to our loyal team of groundsmen.

If you?ve visited the gardens you might well have seen one of the groundsmen cutting the grass, felling trees or trimming hedges. And you might have noticed how happy they look.

Richard, Matthew and Nathan all do a job that they love, which is one of the reasons we?re so happy to have them. Before coming to Harwood Park between them they looked after the grounds at a country club, a sports ground and a golf club.

Matthew even has a special claim to fame ? he kept the most moles off the green at Brocket Hall?s golf course!

As well as being hard workers our groundsmen are special to us because they take pride in what they do. They understand that the memorial gardens serve both as a final resting place for loved ones and also a

peaceful retreat for family and friends to visit. They do everything they can to make the gardens look as beautiful and welcoming as possible. And when you stroll around the gardens you can see their handiwork ? from the carefully pruned roses to the pretty line of cherry trees and the immaculately planted topiary crescent.

You can place a memorial at Harwood Park even if the funeral didn?t take place here.

When you entrust your loved one to our keeping, you can rest assured they?ll be at peace. * Find out more about Harwood Park Crematorium and Memorial Gardens at http://www.crematorium.co.uk/

19

Support Claire in her shave for charity Rapunzel, Rapunzel ?

Shaved off her Hair!

Claire Austin was born and bred in Stevenage and for the past 20 years has run the family funeral business which was established in Stevenage more than 300 years ago. As a family company, they are very community focussed and are keen to support local charities and causes. Claire has personally taken part in a number of fundraising events including charity work in India and Vietnam and in 2014 ran the London Marathon in aid of our local hospice.

This year, Claire decided to shave her head to raise funds for the Stevenage Community Trust. The Trust was established in 1990 and provides funding and support to charitable organisations and individuals in Stevenage and the surrounding villages. The ?big

shave?took place on Saturday 25th August at the Austin?s Fairytale themed, Family Fun Day. This is an event held every year at Claire?s home for Austin?s staff and their families. Claire was dressed as Rapunzel and during the afternoon had her head shaved in front of 150 guests. The deed was carried out by hairdresser, Jo Gates, who went to Barclay School with Claire.

To date Claire has raised over ÂŁ8,000 but donations can still be

made at www.love2donate.co.uk/claireaustin Alternatively, cheques can be made payable to The Stevenage Community Trust and sent to Claire at Austin?s. ?It was an amazing experience. I received so much support from my family, friends and t he Aust in?s Team. I am delight ed t o have been able t o raise funds for our communit y in t his way?said Claire.

19

A host of top events at Harpenden Public Halls Harpenden Public Halls is set on the edge of Harpenden Common, close to the town centre and train station.

Their entertainment programme is extremely varied and regularly hosts live music, tribute acts, comedy, theatre productions, film screenings, schools concerts and an annual Christmas Panto .

It is also recognised as being the hub of the community and host everything from pre-school activities, youth theatre, dance and exercise classes, antiques fairs and NHS blood donor sessions to a wide variety of club and society events.

Both of the rooms are available for hire. The smaller Southdown Room is a more intimate space and can hold up to 70 persons seated or 100 standing, whilst the larger Eric Morecambe Hall can hold 410 seated or 520 standing.

It is an ideal venue for all types of events ranging from wedding

receptions to fairs and exhibitions to parties and conferences, and the Halls have even been used as a film location.

It has a fully licensed bar, and a

professional kitchen for hire.

For further information please call 01582 762880 or email HPH@1Lif e.co.uk and the team will be pleased to discuss your requirements.

Phot ography by Brendan Fal vey

If you have enjoyed t hese images of #Hert s by Brendan Falvey and would like t o find out how t o order t hem cont act on t he det ails supplied here

Email: bjpfalvey@gmail.com Phone 07572681805 www.brendanfalveyimagery.co.uk

Garden jobs for Autumn For t hose lucky enough t o have rhubarb growing in your garden t hen now is t he t ime t o spring int o act ion t o ensure fut ure crops. Simply divide est ablished rhubarb crowns t o creat e new plant s and you will have a plent iful supply in t he years ahead.

Now is of course the time to get serious on cutting back and make sure that you trim all you can from perennials that have died down It ?s clearly get t ing cooler now t hat t he wint er mont hs are eit her upon us or close at hand, so move t ender plant s, including aquat ic ones, int o a greenhouse or conservat ory Don?t forget for all the hard work that you have put in there is the chance to reap some

Th e # H er t s t eam of ex per t s gi v e you som e t op t i ps an d j obs t o do as t h e gar den st ar t s t o w el com e Aut um n act i v i t y... benefit. So if you have fruit in your garden make sure you harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts that are growing.

It ?s always very sat isfying t o be able t o plant seeds from plant s grown in your own garden so

don't forget t o finish collect ing seeds from t he garden t o sow next year.

It?s probably staring you in the face but there is work to be done on the lawn before the long winter ahead. This is your final chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas, and if work is needed then make sure to renovate or create new areas by laying turf.

Work doesn?t have to be hard to be productive. We?ve made our conference rooms an easy-going, inspirational space with the privacy and tranquillity you need to work in comfort. All our superbly appointed meeting rooms are located in a self-contained area on the first floor, with a range of room sizes and configurations, as well as a dedicated and experienced support team to make your event in Stevenage a success.

The Ibis Forum has a total floor area of 660m2 and ideal for creating stunning exhibitions, trade fairs or public shows; with a welcome foyer for

registrations and refreshments, and break-out syndicate rooms. Our in-house catering team are on hand to provide refreshments, and offer a choice of delicious menus for lunch, from finger buffets to sit-down meals to suit all budgets, or if you prefer you can hire our self catering kitchen.

Weddings A wedding is all about traditions, your individuality, heritage and culture.

The Ibis Forum is the ideal venue for couples seeking a luxury wedding location. Our state-of-the-art banqueting facilities are among the largest and best equipped in the region, and we can accommodate up

to 625 guests. And using the latest technology, with spectacular built in LED lighting and plasma screens as a backdrop, we can give your wedding a real WOW factor.

We understand that you will require specialist caterers for multicultural weddings and here you will find a modern self-catering kitchen for your chosen caterer. Exclusive hire of Forum includes entire floor, Fairview Suite, bar and kitchen. This includes tables and chairs, dance floor, use of the self-catering kitchen and complimentary bedroom in the adjoining Ibis Hotel. Call about special offers : 01438 533018.

Visit our new websit es for more informat ion www.forumcb.co.uk and www.fairviewhot els.com/ hot els/ ibis-forum-st evenage

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Proud publ i sh er of #Herts @h ash tagh erts For al l your mark eti ng and soci al medi a needs: 07539 782979 w w w .spi tf i repr.com darren@spi tf i repr.com @DarrenI sted1 @h ash tagh erts

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