#Stevenage April 2018

# STEVENAGE April 2018

STEVENAGE STEVENAGE FC: FC: HAVE HAVE THE THE BORO BORO JUST JUST M MADE ADE THEIR THEIR BEST BEST SIGNING? SIGNING?

TOLLERS: SPOTLIGHT ON OUR LEGAL EXPERTS

WHAT A A VIEW: VIEW: WHAT STEVENAGEIN IN STEVENAGE PICTURESBY BY PICTURES BRENDAN FALVEY FALVEY BRENDAN

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What's on in

#Stevenage

INDOOR M ARKET Wh at 's on in St even age

DO YOU REM EM BER EARLY DAYS OF TOWN? We look back w it h Old M em or ies of St even age 2

DEBENHAM S DELIGHT New st or e w in s t op aw ar d

FOCUS ON TOLLERS Solicit or s w h er e ser vice an d deliver y ar e alw ays except ion al

PARKRUN POWER Get ou t at t h e w eek en d

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AM AZING PICTURES OF STEVENAGE

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Look at som e of t h e r em ar k able pict u r es by Br en dan Falvey

I can't support a scheme where the public sector offer 90% of the land for 10% of the homes I have regular contact and meet with the Chief Executive of Stevenage Borough Council to discuss this and many other issues. We have an excellent working relationship, but it does not mean we always have to agree.

I have explained I cannot support a scheme whereby the public sector is providing 90% of the land and getting less than 10% of the homes back in return, because the money is being invested in new Labour Council Offices. I have asked him to work with me to deliver a real regeneration scheme that starts in Queensway, as local people want new shops, not

fancy new Council Offices.

I believe local people need to be involved and it is important to understand that the majority of the population of our town, do not shop in Stevenage town centre. Local people want to see new shops, it is the biggest issue on the doorsteps and I am afraid Stevenage Borough Council?s car parking charges are the biggest barrier to increasing footfall. Every developer I have spoken to, say they want to see an element of free parking. Debenhams opened in Roaring Meg and refused to come to the town centre. I have consistently called for 3 hours free parking in the

"Local people want to see new shops, it is the biggest issue on the doorsteps and I am afraid Stevenage Borough Council?s car parking charges are the biggest barrier to increasing footfall."

- Stephen McPartland town centre to match that of the Old Town and Roaring Meg.

Stevenage Borough Council refuse, as they take more money in parking revenue locally than they do in Council Tax. I have urged them to build multi-stories at the railway station, but they say they do not have the money. Now I accept they are one of the smallest local authorities in the UK, they have an annual budget of just over £8.5million, not much more than my secondary schools. However, their accounts show that since 2010 they have increased their total usable reserves from £10million to £58million in 2017. It is not an issue of finance, but a lack of aspiration. It is not about politics, it is about creating change.

Please remember that SG1, is the latest in a long line of broken promises over the last 23 years. The heart of the plan is fancy new Labour Council Offices, while the shops in Queensway, the centre of the town, remain the same. There will be 1,000 flats with less than 10% made available as affordable homes for local people and local NHS facilities could be compulsory purchased by Stevenage Borough Council on behalf of the developers.

In terms of your comments on housing, I am pro-housing and my

St eph en M cPar t lan d M P w r it es exclu sively f or #St even age

website has many examples of housing developments I have supported. I am particularly proud of the scheme at Wedgewood Way, the old Du Pont site, it is 240 affordable homes and made possible by a £6million grant I secured from the Government.

However, in Stevenage Borough Council?s Local Plan, which I have on hold, we will lose 70% of our Greenbelt, including Forster Country.

I am proud to be the Member of

Parliament for Stevenage and to have won three General Elections, increasing the number of votes and vote share at each election, because I have a reputation for standing up for local people. Over 50% of them voted for me at the last General Election and it was humbling to gain more votes than all the other candidates put together. I will continue representing local people and campaigning for real regeneration so we have a town centre fit for the 21st century.

Breathing new life into the town and enhancing our proud history The SG1 scheme represents a major step forward for the town bringing ÂŁ350m private investment into our town centre, creating new shops, restaurants and cafes, a new park, another square in the heart of the town, fantastic public spaces. A new hub for public services ? a brand new library, upgraded and integrated health services, exhibition space and much more. And all funded through this regeneration scheme.

At our launch, there were so many people and organisations who, like our Stevenage residents, see the regeneration of Stevenage town centre as their top priority. It is clear that we all share the same ambition to make this an even more successful town in the years ahead. Today marks

Sh ar on Taylor on t h e SG1 Regen er at ion a key moment as we deliver against these ambitions, with a regeneration scheme which brings together the best of the old and the new. Breathing new life into the town, but also finding ways to celebrate and enhance the proud history of Britain?s first new town. It is a pleasure to introduce our development partner Mace. Mace have worked so hard during the last few months to understand the heritage of the town and use this to inspire the proposals they have

brought forward and reimagine a bright future.

We have some fantastic assets. The first new town, adorned with modern buildings and sculpture from Barbara Hepworth, Franta Belsky, Henry Moore. The new towns movement was ahead of its time but aimed for a town that was built for ordinary people to make a future for their family and their community.

We have business ? great and small ? to be deeply proud of with expertise in engineering, healthcare, space and pharma. Research centres and development that have an international impact and are developing world beating technologies in their fields.

Companies who are creating DNA engineering techniques that can melt cancer cells and rebuild brain cells after strokes. Aerospace specialists who are not only putting satellites into orbit, but building the Mars Rover. Defence engineering whose leading edge technology is ensuring our country stays safe and peaceful in the way we have come to enjoy.

We enjoy great quality of life here too, with a green lung for the town in Fairlands Valley Park, green flag parks and space to breathe and enjoy throughout the town, not to mention our 40km of cycle ways a wonderful piece of infrastructure which we are lucky to inherit from our far-sighted early planners.

And so, as custodians of Stevenage, our work on regeneration is at the forefront of all that we do.

"As custodians of Stevenage, our work on regeneration is at the forefront of all that we do. It is our ambition to mix the best of the old along with bright and bold plans for the future ? making the town centre a great place"

It is our ambition to mix the best of the old along with bright and bold plans for the future ? making the town centre a great place for people to live, work and enjoy.

Here in Stevenage, being a cooperative council is at the heart of what we do. Working together to get the best results. And I must thank a number of colleagues have worked hard with us to create a shared vision for the future of Stevenage ? the county council, chamber of commerce, the LEP, the chamber of commerce, colleagues from health, large and small businesses and community groups.

This partnership working has led us to put in place a vision for the revitalised town centre ? working with renowned master planners David Lock Associates to put together the Stevenage Central Framework. This gives six different opportunity areas for regeneration and development that can come forward in years ahead.

A vision to create a thriving and

- Cllr Sharon Taylor modern town centre, with an upgraded leisure and cultural offer. A 24 / 7 modern town centre, improving retail, creating an evening economy, celebrating our culture and heritage, and enabling us to lobby for investment in infrastructure.

SG1 marks a key moment for the town, as we start to deliver the first instalment of this vision.

Our developer partner Mace have a superb track record. Some of their recent projects include building the

Shard, Birmingham New Street Station, the regeneration of Bracknell Town Centre, regeneration schemes in Greenwich, Oxford and East London...

And probably more divisive in Stevenage, the new Tottenham Hotspur stadium.

These are exciting times for Stevenage as at last we start our long-awaited journey to our new town centre. We look forward to working with Mace, through thick and thin, to deliver this exciting scheme.

Chief exec signing may be crucial for the Boro M y #St even age by Dar r en Ist ed There has been a lot of change taking place at Stevenage FC in the past few months but the biggest step may just have been taken this week.

In a season which has seen a raft of player changes, confirmation that a new North Stand will be built and then the surprise of a managerial departure with the club in mid table (Was he sacked or just reshuffled?) - it is the latest announcement this week which really caught my eye.

On Monday the club announced that Alex Tunbridge has been named as CEO of the club. Alex, who many may recall from his local links and his role at the community section of the club, has really made his name in the past year with a remarkable stint at Newport County.

Now don't get me wrong, chief execs don't select great teams, they don't bang in the goals and they don't stand firm to hold on to a 1-0 lead. But for those who think football clubs are only reflected by those who wear the shirt on the field - a new realisation will soon be dawning.

Off the field the Boro management have whinged for some time that the club has to be run as a business, that you can only spend what you make and that the quality of players is only a reflection of the amount of money the club has at its disposal. Given the fact that Boro have entered the Football League, hit the heady heights of Division One and still seen attendances flatline and now dip to just 2,000 there has been a feeling that this is a club which is slowly going nowhere.

Fortunately, somewhere a lightbulb has flickered. Someone at Boro (and I have my suspicions) has realised that there is a disconnect with Boro's place in the community of Stevenage and that no matter how well (or badly) the club perform the fanbase is not going to get any larger and progress will never occur.

Enter Mr Tunbridge.

His background in Boro is impeccable and his role at

Newport, a fragmented fan owned hot mess which was a cert for relegation last year has been nothing short of miraculous.

The Exiles of course went on the save themselves and after a close season of readjustment off the field, have this season banked ÂŁ1m in a remarkable FA Cup run which ironically also put paid to a strong league campaign.

So Boro have swooped, but what are they getting? Well you only have to walk up to the ground on a Saturday and stand on the East Terrace to know we need someone who can change the whole matchday experience.

We've already used the word disconnect but it's as good as any to sum up just how little interaction there is before and during a game. And connecting with your fans isn't a Saturday and Tuesday night thing. Boro need to communicate more effectively, in a more modern way and with information and offerings which not only keep current fans happy but attract much bigger numbers. The excuse of being too close to Arsenal and Spurs won't wash now - we have a club ideally placed to attract a whole new generation of home town fans and a ground which will give us genuine pride - we now need a community focus and strategy to see that fanbase rise again - over to you Alex.

SLL clinch national recognition with Quality Award success SLL W ins Nat ional Qualit y Award for Second Time Stevenage Leisure Ltd (SLL) has received further national recognition for the high quality of its operations with the award of ?Top Performing Organisation with 11-30 Quest Registered Centres? for the second time. The award was presented at the Quest NBS and CIMSPA Evening Networking and Award Event, held earlier this year in London.

SLL delivers a wide range of leisure, health and cultural

activities across 23 centres to over 3 million visitors each year. The centres reach across Stevenage, North Hertfordshire, Central Bedfordshire and Rutland.

Quest is Sport England?s leading national quality scheme for leisure centres across the UK.The Quest scheme sets the standards for the industry and encourages the ongoing success and development of leisure facilities by focussing on the people using them. Its rigorous assessments challenge the very best centres in the nation.

Ian Morton, SLL?s Managing Director, said: ?I?m delighted that we have won this award for a second time. SLL had tough competition and it is a testament to the hard work our employees put in that we are able to be classed Top Performing Organisation again.?

Special mention also needs to be given to Royston Leisure Centre who achieved 10 year continuous accreditation with Quest. This award was also presented at the ceremony.

Tollers, the exceptional team at the very heart of their community Tollers Trust s and Est at es t eam: Dedicat ed t o support ing t he St evenage communit y The largest team in our Stevenage office is our Trusts and Estates team.

They are able to assist on all aspects of wills, trusts, tax and estate planning, lasting powers of attorney, Court of Protection applications and estate administration.

Making a will need not be daunting or stressful and enables you to set out clearly what your wishes are for after you pass away. You can provide for your family, state your funeral wishes and name guardians for children. Our team pride themselves on making the process as easy and simple as possible and can provide advice on tax and trusts when required to ensure your estate is passed on in the most tax efficient way.

Many people are not aware of the importance of having a power of attorney in place. Whilst a Will takes care of your affairs after your death, a power of attorney is required during your lifetime. It enables you to choose who you trust to be able to assist you with your property and financial affairs and any health and welfare

issues as and when necessary.

If someone does not have a power of attorney and becomes unable to deal with their own affairs, perhaps due to a stroke or dementia, then it may be necessary to make an application to the Court of Protection in order to obtain permission to assist that person.

When a loved one passes away it can be an emotional time for all concerned. We can help ease the stress by offering advice in relation to one-off issues or dealing with all or part of the estate on your behalf.

Sharon Brown and Chris Lucas

"The t eam t ake part in many l ocal event s and of f er mont hl y f ree l egal advice cl inics at Age Concern and Garden House Hospice."

(pictured above) work alongside Fiona Nash in the Trusts and Estate team.

Sharon is a fully accredited member of Solicitors for the Elderly and is a trustee of Stevenage Community Trust. She has strong ties with the local community having lived in Stevenage all of her life. Chris also lives locally and is an affiliate member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners and an associate member of Solicitors for the Elderly.

The team take part in many local events and offer monthly free legal advice clinics at Age Concern and Garden House Hospice.

For more information on how our Trusts and Estates team can assist you with any requirements you may have? .Talk t o Tollers on 01438 901095 and the team will happily assist you.

Except ional People ? Except ional Service ? Except ional Delivery.

PAUL FRY on # St evenage

Loving the regeneration plan but why the need for a shiny new office?

I look at the plans for the SG1 development, announced to much fanfare last month, and can?t help thinking that it might all represent yet another false dawn.

The developers, Mace, who built London's Shard, are talking it up, as they would. So are the Labour-controlled council.

But they don't and won't have Tory MP Stephen McPartland on board with the ÂŁ350 million scheme - and he has the powerful ear of Communities Secretary Sajid Javed.

Last year McPartland said there would be no public money to pump-prime private investment until new plans were drawn up which focus on developing shops rather than civic amenities and flats.

He also said he wanted to be on the body that delivered a ÂŁ1 billion upgrade to the post-war town centre, which has endured a slow, painful decline in recent decades while successive refresh plans fell by the wayside.

Mace say their plans would create

600 homes, set among boulevards, town squares, a library, health services under one roof, and council offices on top of their current Danestrete site, with the bus station shifted to the site of the former bus garage.

There is widespread agreement that something must be done. The town centre is tired and has become home to pound shops and charity outlets ? while the anchor stores the place has so badly needed have set up shop just down the road at the Roaring Meg, in a clear and obvious indictment on past, enduring failures to bring the likes of Debenhams to the town centre.

There is still precious little broad agreement on what should be done, despite Mace's new vision.

And the real possibility remains that, with all the opposing tensions, the can will be kicked into the distance while a once-proud, flagship area stagnates further.

As a child of the New Town, whose parents were 1960s pioneers, I

find it sad that this town of great post-War vision and enterprise is now stuck in a time-warp, and its inhabitants - judging by social media - remain implacably divided on its future.

I find myself curiously in agreement with the MP in some respects, such as the fact that it does feel somewhat like the council will merely be getting big, shiny new offices while everything else is bolted on. You have to wonder, with council budgets shrinking and functions being outsourced, they could not almost operate out of a phone box. Why the need for a new building?

McPartland may be being partisan in his approach to the council and he is right to some degree that the development must be retail-led in order to bring in investors.

The council have an agenda here as they know that business rates go wholly to central government, with just a portion then being returned to them. They would, though, benefit hugely from having a big new housing estate on their

doorstep, through council tax from thousands of new tenants.

While there is undoubtedly a dire need for more housing, Stevenage's history teaches us that genuinely affordable social housing is what is required to build a proper community; one in which people stay and bring up their families for generations, rather than hop from one short-term let to another, uprooting their families all too frequently.

Planning law is being abused by developers. The designated 'affordable' portion of any new development can be cut to near-meaningless levels.

The law was changed in 2012 to ease the requirement for affordable homes so that developers can be allowed to make ?competitive returns?(in practice, 20 per cent profit) on any development.

And the government has engineered something of a casino environment where there are big profits for builders from banking land, strangling supply to hike prices and encouraging buy to let rather than funding proper pensions.

Its 'Help to Buy' scheme benefited higher earners and the builders themselves, with the chairman of Persimmon making a hefty bonus last year, largely on the back of this Government-funded incentive scheme. The bonus was meant to be more than ÂŁ100m but he evidently thought that to be a bit much, so he generously took a cut.

There is a serious lack of genuinely affordable properties at a time of rising levels of homelessness.

Yet while McPartland pushes the line that there should be plenty of affordable housing in SG1, his

party has presided over an appallingly sniffy attitude to social housing, fearing that it provides boltholes for breeding Labour voters.

The number of council homes in Britain is at a record low, with fewer properties to rent from local authorities than at any point in 50 years. The stock of council houses across England, Scotland and Wales has dropped to just two million and has more than halved in the past 20 years, according to government statistics.

More than 170,000 council homes

The town?s first planners were fortunate to be able to work with a blank sheet of paper as they designed a town fit for the future.

But the future of retail looks decidedly shaky, with the recent losses of Woolworth?s, C&A, BHS and, more recently, Claire?s Accessories, Maplin, Multiyork and Toys R Us. Even the pound chains are said to be feeling the pressure as peoples' incomes are squeezed by unending austerity. There are expectations that Gap may go, while Mike Ashley's Sports Direct could soon

"The MP said St evenage peopl e want ?regenerat ion t o be new shops, not f ancy new Labour council of f ices?. But t hat ship appears t o have sail ed down t he road t o Roaring Meg. And if you want t o f ut ure-proof t he t own cent re, is ret ail -l ed devel opment real l y t he way ahead?

Shopping is going onl ine." have been lost since 2010 alone, under the Coalition and now Theresa May's government.

The average house price is now 7.6 times average salaries (it was about half that 20 years ago) ? so even the bank of mum and dad is feeling stretched.

The MP said Stevenage people want ?regeneration to be new shops, not fancy new Labour council offices?. But that ship appears to have sailed down the road to Roaring Meg. And if you want to future-proof the town centre, is retail-led development really the way ahead?Shopping is going online.

Many big retailers have gone and others will surely follow.

up its stake in Debenhams and take control. The big supermarkets have shed staff, as have M&S ? something once unthinkable.

People?s buying habits are changing fast and the pace of change is only likely to accelerate.

Shoppers often browse in stores, then go and buy at the best price from the comfort of their living rooms.

It would be interesting to see how many even make purchases while sitting in a town centre coffee shop that has taken the place of a big retailer.

Eight years of austerity has seen a rise in cheap-priced shops to meet demand from stretched wallets.

We now have clothes you could

take on holiday and leave there.

So who do the planners have in mind for these retail spaces? More charity shops?

Who will be able to afford the rents, when businesses across the UK are already squeezed and hugely disadvantaged by rates and other costs when it comes to competing with eBay and Amazon and other online stores, which are largely unencumbered.

Do they think Amazon might open one of their new state-of-the-art stores there?There needs to be more debate and honest disclosure of this vision, rather than vague statements about this retail-led Utopia.

If the town is not to outgrow even this shiny latest new vision in a decade or so, we need to seriously ponder the future of retail.

Is it to be a homogenous mall of the kind we now see mostly out of town all over the country? Or something that considers the need

"Who wil l be abl e t o af f ord t he rent s, when businesses across t he UK are al ready squeezed and hugel y disadvant aged by rat es and ot her cost s "

for instant gratification, with ordering and collection in-store and speedy home delivery - in which case, motor access would be key.

Or will there be lots of places to eat and drink and be merry, with 1,000 new homes on site? We don?t need a place that becomes a vast dormitory; a ghost town after 6pm ? or one where residents can?t get a good night?s sleep.

Serious thought about the future of retail and the social offering of the marketplace is needed - not bland statements from developers with their fancy 3D modelling software. They won?t be living

there or shopping there. Real people will.

On the upside is the fact that, despite all the naysayers, Mace's flagship Shard now has full occupancy and has drawn spin-off businesses to a former run-down area of Southwark Stevenage is not Southwark, but it has been wrestling with what to do with SG1 for too long.

I don't profess to have the answers but whatever happens, it must be for the greater benefit of all those who live there now ? not just the few thousand who may move there later.

Or a few dozen councillors.

Phot ography by Brendan Fal vey Only onnect A walk in Forst er count ry

If you have enjoyed t hese images of #St evenage 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

Drum and Bluebells Pryor's Wood

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

Phot ography by Brendan Fal vey St Nicholas Church

Reflect ion Beningt on Lordship Est at e

If you have enjoyed t hese images of #St evenage 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

Fairlands Valley climbing frame

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

Focus on t he West gat e Cent re

Tailor made quality at The Curtain Shop A popular double act in the Westgate Centre are Martin and Bob who are well known for their tailor made curtains and blinds at The Curtain Shop.

Martin and Bob are legendary in the town having first opened in the Indoor market 45 years ago before moving on to premises in Park Place.

They have been in Westgate for the past five years and believe it to be 'The best place to trade in the town.'

At The Curtain Shop they are renowned for producing bespoke curtains and blinds which are fitted free of charge. They also have a great reputation for net curtains which can be purchased safe in the knowledge that all alterations will be free of charge as well.

They have many books of fabrics to chose from, and with their experience in the business they make sure of the very best job offering final measure and fit too.

Some new amazing Spring additions to The Curtain Shop will allow you to brighten up your home and add a splash of colour with some gorgeous materials. They have a large choice in fabrics and all curtains can be tailor made in their workshop with Martin in the shop and Bob out and about fitting and measuring Sometimes the simple things work best! Blinds make and finish a room perfectly and Martin and Bob can help you find the right style, colour and look for your home!

Come and see them in the Westgate,

Stevenage they are open Monday Saturday 9am-5.30pm.

01438 725288

Focus on t he West gat e Cent re

Make Mahers your first choice for repairs, keys, and so much more Based in Unit 2a, in the Westgate Centre in Stevenage, Mahers, has over 30 years of experience.

Come t o us for keys Mahers cut a huge range of specialist keys including Yale Superior keys and offer a single household or cylinder key at ÂŁ5 or two for just ÂŁ7.50. We also stock: - House keys - Car keys - Security keys - Licensed fun keys Engraving and t rophy supplies Don't forget t he t rophies for your end of season present at ion. Mahers is one

of St evenage's leading suppliers of t rophies, medals, cups and awards.

We have a large collect ion for you t o browse.

- Trusted supplier to many clubslocally - Offer competitive prices - First classcustomer service.

Shoe repairs All types of repairs: - Heels - Solesand heels - Leather solesand heels.

Ot her services - Watch batteriesand repairs - Engraving on jewellery and plaques - Locksmithsand auto-locksmiths For furt her det ails cont act : Tel - 07446 102570 Email MaherService@yahoo.com

Opening Hours Mon 9am-5.15pm Tues-Fri 9am-5.30pm Sat 9am-5pm

Focus on t he West gat e Cent re

Focus on t he West gat e Cent re

Focus on t he West gat e Cent re

Celebrating 30 years of the Westgate - were you at the opening?

This year marks the 30th birthday of the Westgate Centre.

amongst the crowds of hundreds, mainly schoolgirls who were hoping to get a glimpse of teen soap star idol and pop star Jason Donovan who briefly visited the centre to open the new Wrygges store before being rushed away amid the chaos.

It is amazing to believe that on 11 April 1988 the Centre first opened its doors to the public.

The Centre was officially opened on Wednesday 26 October 1988 by television presenter, Debbie Greenwood and Mayor of Stevenage, Cllr Alf Luhman when they unveiled a plaque to commemorate the official opening of the ÂŁ20 million scheme. Debbie Greenwood was not the first choice to open the scheme but stepped in at the last minute when Sarah Greene broke both her legs and an arm in a serious helicopter crash with her partner, also a BBC television presenter, Mike Smith.

The shopping Centre was designed to give a light, airy and spacious feel with its open spaces, palm trees and 55ft glass atrium.

At the time the emphasis within the shopping centre was oriented towards fashion. Do you remember the original line up of

We were also lucky enough to welcome soccer superstar Kerry Dixon, who dropped in to open the former sports retailer Olympus.

Chelsea Girl, Hammels, Principles, Olympus Sports and Scottish ladies wear Wrygges? Were you

Unfortunately, with the continuous changing times of retail we have seen the disappearance of several of our original line up from the market

Focus on t he West gat e Cent re place altogether including Hammels, Chelsea Girl, Wrygges, Athena, Olympus, Optional Extras, George Davis Opticians and Terry?s Jewellers.

Changes have been made to the Centre over the last 15 years or so, with the addition of a further mall cafe, Esquires, as we have witnessed the growing trend of coffee shops and our customers' needs for trendy coffees.

The ownership of the centre has also changed in the last 5 years from previously being owned by insurance giants Norwich Union to now being privately owned by an independent landlord. The new landlord has made his own mark on the centre by removing the

original tired and out of date mall cafe to create an open space for independent traders and events.

He has also created a 20,000 sq ft store for H&M by knocking 3 shop units together and creating a floor above by reconfiguring the car park layout, without compromising actual number of car parking spaces.

The increase in internet shopping creates its own challenges for us but with the recent announcement of the ÂŁ350m regeneration of Stevenage Town Centre, we are looking forward to the Westgate Centre being part of the retail offer in Stevenage for many years to come.

Get involved to make Stevenage Festival 2019 the best celebration yet 2019 is the 25th anniversary of the Stevenage Festival. This was originally set up to showcase the voluntary arts groups which have grown up since the beginning of the New Town in 1946.

Some of these groups have now been in existence for over 60 years.

Over the years the festival has grown to 2 weeks of performances by member groups and other organisations in the Gordon Craig theatre. There is also a growing fringe element to the festival featuring smaller performances in many different parts of the town.

As it will be a special anniversary in 2019 the festival want to reach out to as many groups as possible.

They would welcome interest from anyone who has something to showcase. We will help to arrange venues and any events will be included in the festival programme.

The Festival is grateful to the following patrons for their support: The Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, The Lord Cobbold, Martha Lytton-Cobbold, Rebecca Hughes, Councillor Richard Henry, Simon Speller, Professor Howard Burrell, Marie Joy Taylor, Ellen Terry May Craig and Helen Craig.

For more information please get in touch with Hilary Spiers at hilaryspiers9@gmail.com

Total of 276 beat the grey skies for Parkrun Stevenage Parkrun March 24 Event #93 Run Report.

Another Saturday another glorious park run, with thanks to our sponsors for making this happen for free. The spirit of park run was epitomised by the participation of the runners and volunteers who provided enthusiastic participation, encouragement and brightly coloured clothing. Otherwise the weather was resolutely grey and overcast and slippy underfoot.

The weather didn?t deter the 276 park runners who attacked the course with determination including many first timers. There were 58 personal bests a fine achievement in such tricky conditions.

First place was Jonathan Parr with a PB of 18.24s, second place was Darren Purchase in a time of 18.43s and third place was Kris Whitmore with a PB of 18.44s.

Steve Wells got the best male age graded score of 79.69% with a time of 19.27s.

First place for women was Claire Emmerson in a time of 22.53s, second place Helen Elizabeth Hoyle in a time of 23.22s and third place Jan Valenzuela in a time of 24.19s.

Frances Levy got the best female age graded score of 75.73% with a time of 25.37s.

Special mentions to Megan McGrotty who beat her last PB by nearly 5 minutes and Manny Adolph for her 50th park run! Justin Hill clocked his 115th run, Daniel Burczyk his 117th, Terry Sargent his 121st, Ellie Scott her 165th and Verity Fisher her 205th.

Well done all, that's dedication for you!

Thank you to our volunteers Alan FORD - Chloe MARSHALL - David SCOTT - Esperanza CASTRO - Garry

WALLACE - Hazel JONES - Helen HARRIS - Jack LUNNON - James MARSHALL - Louise CHANCELLOR Matt RINGER - Matthew PATTMAN Molly-Rose FISHER - Nathan HADFIELD - Sarah FRITH - Tony RANDFIELD - Tracy NORRIS Directors note- Please please all remember not to take away the finish tokens with you, we found our tokens are diminishing so please ensure you do not take them home with you Parkrun t akes place at Fairlands Valley Park every Sat urday st art ing at 9am.

What 's on in # STEVENAGE INS: Every Friday afternoon, So Healthy, a gentle exercise class takes place from 1.30pm to 2.30pm at Bedwell Community Centre. Please contact the INS for more information on 01438 725400 or emailinfo@irishnetworkstevenage.org.ukor follow the group on Facebook or Twitter.

St evenage Fl oral Art Societ y: Call Margaret 01438 880086 for more details.

St evenage Liberal Synagogue: For further information phone 01438 300222 or visitstevenageliberalsynagogue@gmail.com St evenage Fibromyal gia Support Group:Meet on the second Wednesday evening, 7.30 to 9.30pm, and last Tuesday of the month, 12.30pm to 2.30pm, at Poplars Community Hall. A weekly coffee drop in from 1pm to 3pm takes place on Wednesdays at Encore Coffee House, in the foyer of the Gordon Craig Theatre. Call the helpline 0844 8872 373 or 355 for more info. All welcome.

St Andrew and St George:Parish Mass on Sunday at 10am. A toddler group takes place on Wednesdays from 10am to 12pm. All welcome. For further details please email Kimcuttylanegroups@gmail.com.Morning Prayer Monday to Thursday at 9.30 am. Weekday Masses on Monday at 10am, Tuesday at 12.30pm and Thursday at 10am. Compline at 8:30 pm on Thursdays. For more information

visitwww.stevenagechurch.org.

Debt ors Anonymous:Meetings are held every Tuesday evening at 8pm at The Living Room, No 15 The Glebe, Chells Way. For more information visit:www.debtorsanonymous.org.uk St evenage Corey?s Mil l Lions Cl ub:Lion are part of the world's largest community based Service Organisation and are looking for more members to assist with the work in the community as volunteers. Meetings are held on the second Monday of the month in Symonds Green starting at 7.45pm. Membership fee is nominal. To find out more call 01438 489247 or 07903 444052 or visit the group on Facebook.

St arl ight Dance Academy:Adult tap dance classes, for all ages, with a fully qualified teacher take place from 1.15pm every Friday at the Community and Arts Pavilion, Roaring Meg Retail Park, Stevenage.

Age Concern, St evenage:Pop in for a cuppa every Monday, 10am to 12pm, at Swingate House. Age Concerns provides bookings for Britannia Coaches,a hire service for mobility scooters and wheelchairs during opening hours. Free 20-minute appointments for benefits and legal advice, and a footcare clinic are held every Tuesday and Thursday (fee payable). Age Concern's offices are open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 3pm and Thursday 9.30am to 1.30pm, ground floor, Swingate House, Stevenage town centre.Call01438 314164 for more.

St evenage Museum:St George?s Way, Stevenage, hosts a wide range of events throughout the year for families, children and adults. Open 10am to 4.30pm Wednesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm Saturday. Call 01438 218881 or emailmuseum@stevenage.gov.ukfor more.

Cycl e UK St evenage:Starter cycle rides will set off from Costello?s Cafe by the Sailing Centre in Fairlands Valley Park at 10.30am every Saturday.

Evening rides from the green by Springfield House Community Centre take place every

What 's on in # STEVENAGE Wednesday at 7.15pm. For more information go towww.stevenagectc.org.ukor call Jim on 07939 687509 or Jill on 07816 625901.

St evenage Writ ers:Meet every Wednesday from 5.30pm to 7pm in The Snug Bar at The Dun Cow, Letchmore Road, Stevenage. Mutual support for writers at all levels, something for everyone. Next two months the group is working on getting their Annual together. For more details contact Tony Burtonponytailpoet@gmail.com.

Pl ay Go:Takes place every Tuesday from 7.30pm in Letchworth or Stevenage on alternate weeks.

Persons under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. For more information, visithttp:/ / www.letchworth-go.org.uk/ letchgo St Hugh and St John's Church: Blaze Youth Club for anyone aged 7 to 14 takes place every Thursday during term-time from 5.45pm to 7.15pm. Have fun playing games, sports, making crafts, baking, cooking, and art, The first Thursday of the month is family night where families are invited to come for a meal and a short service. ÂŁ1.50 per week.

Roundabout ers Count ry Dance Cl ub:English country dancing every Thursday, 8pm to 10pm, at Friends Meeting House, Cuttys Lane SG1 1UP. Newcomers are always welcome, both beginners and experienced dancers. To find out more call 01438 727239, visitwww.roundabouters.org.ukor just come along.

St evenage Bridge Cl ub:New players are needed at Stevenage Bridge Club and Springfield House Friday Bridge Club. Stevenage Bridge Club meets at 7.30pm to play Duplicate Bridge at the Priory Nursery, Stanmore Road, Old Stevenage. Contact Phil Cooper on 0795 7813434. Springfield House Friday Bridge Club meet on Friday afternoons at 1.30pm to play cut-in Chicago Bridge at Springfield House. Contact Richard Bean on 01438 221517.

Mol l y Vickers School of Dance:Lessons in Ballet, Tap, Freestyle and Contemporary at Bedwell Community Centre, Stevenage. For children (18 months+) and adults, first trial class is free! For

more details call Lisa Holt on (01438) 723450 or Stacey Hurst on (01438) 315580.

Oval Communit y Circl e:Come along to a free social group held on the first Thursday of the month anytime between 9:30am and 11am at the Oval Community Centre, Vardon Road. For more information contactenquiries@ovalcommunity.comor 01438 359404.

Love t o Dance:Fun and friendly sessions for anyone aged 50 and over take place every Friday from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at Hampson Park Community Centre, Webb Rise, Stevenage, SG1 5QU. Just ÂŁ5.50 per session. For more information call 0203 675 7215 or emailclarebellchambers@saracens.net St evenage Spirit ual Group:Meet every Sunday (except Bank Holidays) at Springfield House, Stevenage Old Town. Sunday meetings take place from 7.30pm till 9pm with a different Medium each week. All welcome.

Just Sing Communit y Choir:Come along and sing every Thursday during term time from 7pm to 9pm, at Grace Community Church. Hydean Way, Stevenage. First taster session free and no auditions are required. Contact 07785568463 or visit the websitewww.justsingcc.org.uk Pil at es:Sessions take place at Datchworth Village Hall on Thursdays from 1.30pm to 2.30pm/ Beginners are recommended to attend an introductory class. Call 07732897404 for more information.

Wou ld you lik e t o pr om ot e you r gr ou p or even t f or f r ee?

Do you w an t t o sh ow t h e people of #St even age you r gr ou p in act ion ?

Sen d you r copy an d pict u r es t o dar r en @spit f ir epr .com an d w e w ill do ou r best t o pu blish t h em in Wh at 's on in #St even age

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Th e f am ou s m u r al ou t side Th e Lon gsh ip

OLD M EM ORIES OF STEVENAGE 2 Ou r t h an k s t o t h e adm in s on t h e Old M em or ies of St even age 2 Facebook Gr ou p f or per m ission s t o u se t h ese pict u r es.

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Above: Th e bu ildin g of St An dr ew an d St Geor ge Below : Tw in Foxes 1973

Tasty treats on offer in a feast of entertainment and fun in town centre Sale are now offering high street clothes at discount prices. Bichitos have also expanded and is now called The Wedding Fairy, and together they offer some special childrenswear.

We?re always looking for new traders and stalls are available from ÂŁ52 a week for the first six months so do email if you?re interestedindoor.market@stevenage. gov.uk

We have some mouth-watering treats coming to Stevenage in April with street food lunches offering a whole range of tasty meals.

Every other Wednesday from 11 April there will be stalls in Stevenage Town Centre by the fountain, from 11am to 3pm, offering everything from toasties and crepes, to soul food, and more.

There are more new stalls at Stevenage Indoor Market where J.A.M.

The Indoor Market is 45 years old this year and is keen to hear from anyone with memories or objects from its history for an exhibition to mark the anniversary in December.If anyone has any memories or anything related to the market, such as objects which are more than 20 years old, please email us at the address above with the subject title ?History of Stevenage Market?and you could be part of the exhibition. Thank you in advance for

your help.

The Indoor Market is now part of my town centre website which features a great range of useful information about the shops, special offers and events going on. We have special events in the Easter holidays and there?s more going on across the town centre so do have a look at our online events page, and put 19 May in your diaries, when we?ll be holding a street party for the royal wedding!

To stay up-to-date with the events planned in the town centre throughout the year, make sure you?re following @lovestevenagetc on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or if you would like to contact me directly please emailtcm@stevenage.gov.ukto talk all things town centre.

Debenhams' Stevenage store is national winner ROARING TO SUCCESS DEBENHAMS STEVENAGE STORE W INS BEST NEW STORE AT THE RETAIL W EEK AWARDS 2018 Debenhams Roaring Meg Stevenage store was crowned ?Best New Store? last night at the 23rd annual Retail Week Awards 2018.

The Retail Week Awards are a symbol of excellence in the retail sector, providing a platform for industry-wide recognition and a celebration of outstanding work. The awards showcase a diverse breadth of achievement, from senior boardroom leaders to new digital stars, fresh entrepreneurs and local store managers for their achievements over the past 12 months.

The 80,000 square foot store, which opened in August 2017, was the first in the company?s store estate to showcase the retailer?s new Redesigned Strategy. The strategy aims to make shopping confidence boosting, sociable and fun and this is

something which can be seen throughout the store. From how the space is planned to the fixtures used, the store design is exclusive to Stevenage so much so that there isn?t a single fitting there that can be found in any other Debenhams.

Kat Von D, Urban Decay and Benefit, curated Designers at Debenhams ranges including J by Jasper Conran and Savannah Miller, an extensive home wares department and a variety of dining options including Nandos, Patisserie Valerie, Costa and Creams.

Employing more than 80 local people from the surrounding area, the store features a fantastic new beauty hall featuring 8 cosmetic houses including

Gail Chandler, Debenhams Stevenage store manager, said: ?We are thrilled to win the ?Best New Store award.

Since opening the team and I have thoroughly enjoyed welcoming the local community to their new style Debenhams store.?

Debenhams Stevenage store is open: Sunday: 10:30 to 16:30 Monday: 09:00 to 19:00 Tuesday: 09:00 to 19:00 Wednesday: 09:00 to 19:00 Thursday: 09:00 to 19:00 Friday: 09:00 to 19:00 Saturday: 09:00 to 19:00

A closer look at the Roman way of death From professional mourners to elaborate processions, we look at how wealthy Romans said goodbye to their deceased?

Back in the days of Ancient Rome, it was believed that a person?s soul left their body through the mouth ? so the nearest relation would be at their loved one?s deathbed ready to inhale their last breath. Afterwards, the deceased would be lovingly bathed, perfumed and dressed in fine robes then coins would be placed over their eyes or under their tongue.

For the funeral procession, wealthy Romans would have an elaborate affair organised by professional undertakers called libitinarii. At the head of the procession there were dancers, musicians and actors wearing masks signifying the deceased?s ancestors. Also taking part were paid female mourners who wailed loudly while pulling their hair and scratching their faces. Following behind the main procession, friends and relatives transported the deceased in an open cloth-covered bier, or bed-like tray.

The deceased would either be buried or cremated and their ashes placed in an urn within acolumbarium, or dovecote. This was an important part

of the funeral ritual, as the Romans believed that until a body was interred it couldn?t cross the River Styx ? the mythical river that took the deceased from Earth to the Underworld. Nine days later, there would be a feast, during which a libation was poured over the grave or ashes.

After a person?s death, families regularly commemorated their loved ones by gathering around their tomb and making offerings to the spirits.

The Roman state also set aside special

commemoration days during the year so that people could honour their ancestors.

While we may not follow the same traditions as the Ancient Romans, like them we do all we can to give our loved ones a memorable a send-off and to keep their memory alive in our hearts. * For help and support planning a funeral or cremation, please contact us on 01438 316623

19

5

Enjoy a contemporary experience with a stay at the Ibis Hotel

When the day is over, guests at the Ibis Hotel, Stevenage, can relax in their contemporary restaurant and bar - CafĂŠ Green.

All rooms are fully air conditioned, en suite with double shower, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities and free WiFi.

The restaurant is situated on the ground floor of the hotel. Here you will find a tasty selection of light snacks and traditional dishes on a delightful menu, at great value prices.

At a glance:

The informal bar stocks a range of beers and wines, coffee and soft drinks.

Contact the team to find out this weeks' theme and to book your table by calling 01438 779955.

98 fully re-furbished bedrooms King size beds and luxury showers The Ibis

Flat screen TV?s

Modern and inviting, the new Ibis room has everything you need: a comfortable bathroom, modern decor, hardwood floor, internet and a flatscreen TV with the best international channels.

Family friendly Lift Complimentary Wifi Restaurant Parking close by

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

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

Ashr idge Est at e

Facing the Bowling Green in Stevenage?s Old Town, we?re located in a beautiful Grade 2 listed building.

Our mission is to bring modern British cuisine to Stevenage using seasonal, locally sourced where possible produce, with service which is good without being stuffy; a special occasion venue which doesn?t break the bank.

For r esult s t oday speak t o t he com m unicat ion exper t s at Spit f ir ePR Media rel at ions

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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