NH Now - Autumn 2018

NOW 1

O

NH

CT

O

BE

R

20

18

YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

NEWS

EXHIBITION SHEDS A LIGHT ON LOCAL SUFFRAGETTES

VIEWS BEST BEFORE CAFE TACKLES FOOD WASTE

EVENTS

CHRISTMAS SHOWS, THEATRE, MUSIC, FAIRS AND MORE!

NH Now October 2018

1

2

Keep up to date with @NorthHerts NHDC has launched a new way of keeping up to date with news and information about its services. It’s an email newsletter bulletin service, called @NorthHerts, which delivers news from the Council straight to your inbox. There are a range of topics so you only need to sign up for what interests you, and you can change your preferences at any time.

Topics include latest news, events, waste and recycling, North Hertfordshire Museum and Active North Herts.

You can also use it to find out about any disruption to services or to find out what job opportunities there are at the Council.

CONTACTING NHDC

It is quick and easy to sign up, simply visit the www.north-herts.gov.uk/ subscribe sign up page to find out more.

2

Welcome to our new digital magazine – NH Now! We want to tell as many people as possible about all the great things that are happening in North Herts and so we have created this new digital magazine to help spread the word.

You will still be getting your regular copy of Outlook magazine through your door, three times a year, but we felt it was important to also try and reach residents who prefer to get their community news online, or through social media. By publishing a digital magazine we can also include live links to websites and video content to help bring local stories to life.

We hope you like what you see and we would love to hear your feedback. Email us at: pressoffice@northherts.gov.uk or leave us a comment on our social media channels.

We are on the lookout for great community stories so if you have ideas for content for future editions, we would love to hear from you.

Sarah Kingsley, NHDC Communications Manager

Most NHDC services can be accessed online. Find out how to report an issue, apply for a licence, pay a bill or apply for benefits, all through our website: www.north-herts.gov.uk

Other ways to contact us:

01462 474000

www.facebook.com/northertsDC

@NorthHertsDC

In person: Council Offices, Gernon Road, Letchworth, SG6 3JF

NH Now October 2018

3

NH Now interview

Cllr Needham In this first edition of NH Now we take a sneak peek into the life of NHDC Council Leader, Cllr Lynda Needham.

NH Now October 2018

3

4

Can you tell us a little about your early life and how you came to live in Letchworth?

I have lived in Letchworth since I was 10. I spent two years at secretarial college after 6th form, then went to work for the company we now know as BAE. I then spent two years in South America, and came back and managed a fashion house in Bond Street, before starting a family. I then spent the rest of my career working in various roles for Lloyds Bank, as the working hours were more suited to family life.

I have two grown up children, both with families of their own. Both were educated in Letchworth, both went to University. One works in London and the other one works in Cambridge. My daughter lives in the district and my son lives in Suffolk.

How did you get into local politics?

I was heard at a debate locally in Letchworth and was approached and asked if interested and the rest as they say is history. I became a North Herts Councillor in 1990.

NH Now interview: Cllr Needham

Politics have changed a lot in favour of women, both in the local and national arenas.

4

How have things changed over the years for women in politics?

Politics have changed a lot in favour of women, both in the local and national arenas. It has definitely not moved or changed far enough though, and I still often sit down in many meetings where there is only one woman.

What advice would you give to young women wanting to get involved in local politics?

Do it! By all means do it. One of the most fascinating things for me is the breadth of which the local authority has influence over so many things in the district.

What do you think are the best things about living in North Herts?

Look at the variety… we’ve got Hitchin in the Domesday book, you’ve got the joy of a town that has just grown up naturally; then you’ve got Letchworth, a town that was an absolute leader in town planning, then you’ve got Royston and its history and all the listed buildings that most people are not really aware of; then you’ve got Baldock with mentions in famous novels and diaries all down through the ages and then I may be biased, but we have the most beautiful villages in the county.

NH Now October 2018

5

When my three grandchildren visit from Suffolk they only ever want to go to one place and that is Howard Park and Gardens, because they are desperate to run through the water!

Are there any hidden gems?

We’ve got a lot of hidden gems, but one of the problems is you never visit what is on your doorstep and I have to stick my hand up and say it’s on my list to go to the Royston Caves and I have never been.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

What spare time?! With my son living in Suffolk we go to visit him and my grandchildren.

I’m a crossword fiend, and I am also a science fiction anorak, so if there is anything on at the cinema in that ilk then I will go along.

NH Now interview: Cllr Needham

Where do you like to take your grandchildren when they visit?

What is your favourite science fiction film?

r Wars series of Well it’s got to be the Sta d the new ones. films - both the old ones an rm trooper in my Is there a cardboard sto loft? Of course there is!

What has made you stay in the district as long as you have?

Living in South America was a real eye opener for me with no such thing as a waste collection or someone who comes to sweep the pavements or the roads. When I came back here it suddenly makes you realise how fortunate we are, to live somewhere as fabulous as North Herts. It is truly a very nice area to live, and I think that is one of the reasons why I am happy to be a Councillor, to do my little bit to try and make sure it remains as good a place to live as it is now.

When I came back here it suddenly makes you realise how fortunate we are, to live somewhere as fabulous as North Herts.

NH Now October 2018

5

NH Now feature

6

Best Before Cafe Do you eat food past its best before date?

This new Letchworth cafe is proud to serve it!

If you’ve strolled past the Mrs Howard Memorial Hall in Letchworth recently, you may have spotted that there’s a new cafe in town - the Best Before Cafe.

A new ‘pay-as-you-feel’ cafe, which pops up every Wednesday from 10am – 1pm.

The Cafe is part of The Real Junk Food Project - a UK-wide anti-food waste project which partners with other retailers, restaurants, farmers, and food charities, the aim being to send as little produce to landfill as possible.

6

NH Now October 2018

7

We had a chat with volunteer Suzy Holding, the brains behind the cafe.

Suzy and a couple of the Best Before Cafe team currently volunteer at the Letchworth Foodbank. Suzy said: “Our mission is to reduce food waste.

We campaign to make our food system fairer and more sustainable by supporting our local community”.

As much as 15 million tonnes of food are wasted every year across the UK. That figure includes produce thrown away at home as well as by retailers.

Since the cafe opened its doors they have rescued 200kg of food from going to landfill each week.

In order to rescue surplus food from supermarkets, the Best Before Cafe had to apply to intermediary organisations such as FareShare and Neighbourly. com. These companies ensure that processes involving food transportation, storage and redistribution are appropriate and safe. Every week Suzy and her team trawl the local branches of Lidl and Tesco to take their unwanted goods which would otherwise go to waste. The produce is then put out on display and customers are invited to select what they like on a pay-as-you-feel basis.

As much as 15 million tonnes of food are wasted every year across the UK.

The cafe is evolving constantly. “When we first opened, we used to put all the food out at 10am, but it was like a jumble sale and everyone went a bit mad! Now we stagger it, we put food out at 10am, 11am and 12pm. When people arrive we welcome them with a coffee and a pastry and encourage them to sit down and have a cuppa with us. As there are no prices and it’s a Pay As You Feel cafe, people fill their baskets and donate as much or as little money as they can afford. Some people do weekly shops for a fiver, some donate over the odds as it’s for a good cause, some don’t pay at all and might donate the week after and others take a bag of shopping in return for doing the washing up!” The Best Before Cafe team offer their time, energy and commitment on a voluntary basis. “We are not for profit and all the money donated goes back into our little company to pay for rent, travel expenses and fund raising events.”

The choice of groceries on offer is just phenomenal: crates of potatoes, strawberries, avocados, baskets of breads, tinned goods, cereals and lots of cake! Suzy continued: “With all the food we intercept and which is donated, we are really careful to follow all the usual food hygiene regulations. “A ‘Best Before’ date is about food quality while a ‘Use by’ date is about food safety. Ultimately, our customers make the decisions about the food they put on their table.”

NH Now October 2018

7

8

To get the cafe up and running, Suzy applied to NHDC’s Letchworth Area Committee for a grant to purchase all the essential equipment she needed– from table cloths, to kettles, toasters, cutlery, glasses and mugs. When asked about the process for applying for a grant Suzy said: “I went along to the Letchworth area committee meeting and gave a presentation, it was a bit nerve racking, but all the Councillors were really on the ball, asking lots of good questions.” Suzy also managed to secure a grant from the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation which she is using to cover the first six months rent at Mrs Howard Memorial Hall.

What’s next?

Suzy and the team plan to move to a room in the Mrs Howard Memorial Hall with a kitchen. This will enable the cafe team to prepare simple meals for customers. She says: “Yet again, NHDC has been extremely helpful in supporting us take the required steps to prepare food at Best Before Cafe. One of NHDC’s Environmental Health Officers has already made a visit to the café and has been really helpful in sharing her knowledge of food safety & hygiene.

Date for the diary: Supper Club, Wednesday 21 November As well as juggling the cafe, Suzy has been busy rustling up a ‘supper club’ event at the Garden City Brewery in Letchworth. The head teacher, Richard Palmer and head chef, Mohammed Essakhi at St Christopher’s School, Letchworth will be cooking up a three course veggie supper.

How to get involved: If you are a local business and are able to donate food or offer storage space, Suzy would love to hear from you.

Contact:

Photos: Charlotte Murphy Photography www.charlottemurphy.com

Follow the Best Before Cafe on Facebook for updates, email: bestbeforecafe@gmail.com or visit: www.bestbeforecafe.co.uk

8

NH Now October 2018

9

Museum Uncovers Lost Links to Fight for Women’s Vote A new exhibition at North Hertfordshire Museum will tell the story of the women in our area who campaigned for their belief that women should have the right to vote.

‘North Herts Undaunted: Our Fight for the Vote’ opens on 13 October and sheds a light on local suffrage experiences. Elizabeth Impey of Hitchin was arrested for ‘disorderly conduct’ in 1907, just for walking three abreast outside Parliament, whereas Letchworth’s Jane Short became more militant.

She had previously broken the windows of both Baldock and Hitchin Post Offices and was later imprisoned for arson. Meanwhile, Lady Constance Lytton of Knebworth House was force-fed so harshly that her health never recovered.

North Hertfordshire Museum is fortunate to have a collection of Mrs Impey’s suffragette letters and mementos. These include her Holloway badge, her Votes for Woman rosette and scarf, and an autograph book signed by famous suffragettes such as Christabel Pankhurst, Annie Kenney and Millicent Fawcett. All three came to speak at Hitchin Town Hall, causing near riots in the town - on several occasions mounted police reinforcements had to be brought in from other parts of the county.

You can find out more about this exciting exhibition by watching our video from Ros Allwood, NHDC’s Cultural Services Manager:

NH Now October 2018

9

NH Now feature

10

Wonderful

Wildlife

Images: Countryside Management Service

Think the autumn and winter in North Hertfordshire doesn’t have much to offer in the way of wildlife watching?

Think again. It’s a time of year when there is an abundance of wildlife. The trick is knowing where to look to find it.

10

NH Now October 2018

in North Herts

11

We are very lucky to have so many different habitats for wildlife to live in across the district: woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, freshwater and farmland. Some are located deep in the countryside, some are found on the edge of or even in the centre of towns. During the autumn and winter months, these habitats provide vital sustenance and shelter to help wildlife survive the harshest of conditions.

Oughtonhead Common Local Nature Reserve in Hitchin provides a bountiful harvest of food for our feathered friends. Visiting fieldfares and redwings arrive from Scandinavia during October and November to feast on blackthorn, hawthorn and buckthorn berries. Kingfishers patrol the river, eagerly looking for a swimming snack.

Travel to nearby Purwell Meadows Local Nature Reserve in Hitchin during the winter and you may be lucky to see a common snipe wading through the marshy wet grassland in search of its next meal. Look out for little egret, part of the heron family, stalking its prey along the River Purwell, which runs through the site.

Just up the road is Letchworth’s Norton Common Local Nature Reserve.

The Common is a jewel in the crown of Letchworth and a wildlife oasis. Here you will spot or hear great spotted woodpecker, tawny owl and Muntjac deer. Letchworth is also famous for its population of black squirrels and many can be spotted on the Common at this time of year, collecting food to stash away for the winter months.

Move to the north east of the district and you will find Ashwell Quarry and Quarry Springs. A Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT) Nature Reserve, it is great for watching wildlife at all times of year. If you visit in the autumn you can spot species of butterfly including comma, peacock and red admiral flitting their way across the grassland. Visit in the winter and you may spot yellowhammer and goldcrest at the site. Contact HMWT about access to this Reserve before visiting.

To the east of the district is Fox Covert Local Nature Reserve managed by HMWT. Nestled next to Therfield Heath, Royston, this small beech woodland is classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to the variety of species found there. In the autumn, amongst the golden leaves of the beech trees, you can spot chaffinch, while during the winter months keep an eye out for blue, great and long-tailed tit, goldcrest and treecreeper.

To the west are the villages of Lilley and Great Offley which sit within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The AONB is managed by the Chilterns Conservation Board. Not only is this a stunningly beautiful part of the district to visit, but it is a great place to see red kites. This majestic bird of prey was driven to extinction in England by human persecution at the end of the nineteenth century but was gradually reintroduced to this area in the early 1990’s. Keep scanning the skies and you may spot one gliding about looking for its next meal on the ground below.

If you are interested in helping care for our precious green spaces, you can become a volunteer with the Countryside Management Service (CMS) - visit www.hertfordshire. gov.uk/cms volunteering to find out more.

NH Now October 2018

11

12

Walk the Image: Countryside Management Service

HOOP

Pull on your walking boots and enjoy the countryside walks North Hertfordshire has to offer. Each is unique and provides vantage points to get up close with wildlife and the natural environment.

The Hitchin Outer Orbital Path, affectionately known as the HOOP is a 12 mile (19.3km) route which follows rights of way that link together some of the town’s green spaces.

It was created by Hertfordshire County Council’s Countryside Management Service (CMS) on behalf of North Herts Ramblers Group. It allows walkers to explore the history of Hitchin and the surrounding villages, by circling the far reaching outskirts of the town. If you want to break the walk into shorter segments you can do this using local roads or buses, that run to and from the town centre.

NH Now feature

The HOOP kicks off at the Old Market Square in the centre of town (point A on the map). Food markets have been held in this area since Saxon times and the nearby Arcade was originally the entrance for horse drawn coaches to stables which were located at this site.

12

The second stop on the HOOP is Oughtonhead Common Local Nature Reserve (point B on the map.) The River Oughton runs through the site, its pure and clear waters are derived from nearby chalk springs from the Chiltern Hills. Reedbeds, dry grassland and woodlands provide further habitat, making it a haven for wildlife. Look out for flashes of electric blue as kingfishers whiz by. Arrive in the reedbeds during the summer months and listen out for the drumming of great spotted woodpeckers. Drop into The Garden Gate cafe at Oughtonhead Farm to pick up refreshments for the walk ahead.

The HOOP then takes you towards Ickleford to the north of Hitchin. Stopping at Cadwell Farm, home to Hitchin Lavender (point C on the map). Its aromatic purple fields are a feast for the senses at the height of summer. Lavender growing in this area was at its height in the nineteenth century when hundreds of acres were grown around the town of Hitchin.

This ceased in the 1960’s and Cadwell Farm reinstated this age old farming tradition to North Herts in the 2000’s.

NH Now October 2018

Image: Josh Kubale HMWT

13

The 12 mile (19.3km) route follows rights of way that link together some of the town’s green spaces

Moving towards the north east of town, the walk touches the edge of Letchworth at Wilbury Hills (point D on the map). Reach the top of the hill here and you get an inspiring view across Hitchin and Ickleford, and a sense of Hitchin Outer Orbital Path achievement for getting there!

Then follow the route along the Icknield Way, known as one of the oldest roads in Britain, with history dating back to Neolithic times (4,000 to 2,000 BC).

Walk the HOOP

Distances and Accessibility

The HOOP follows public rights of way, ents to form countryside paths and some pavem n town a 12 mile (19.3km) route around Hitchi . The route centre and surrounding countryside local can be broken down into stages using easier. roads to make walking the HOOP much along most There are also bus stops available town centre. main roads taking you to/from the

Purwell Nine Springs Nature Reserve, managed by Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust (point E on the map) is the fifth stopping point on the HOOP. With open water, reedbeds, fen meadow and wet woodland this little nature reserve has a lot to offer.

et place) )

Section 1 – Hitchin Town Centre (mark to Ickleford Church – 4.5 miles (7.2km

ridge Road ) (Hitchin Garden Centre) – 3 miles (4.9km

Section 2 – Ickleford Church to Camb

Public Transport

Garden Section 3 – Cambridge Road (Hitchin (4km) Centre) to Wymondley Road – 2.5 miles

Further Information

n Town Section 4 – Wymondley Road to Hitchi ) Centre (market place) – 2 miles (3.2km Follow the ‘HOOP’ logo along the route.

North Herts Ramblers Association

e group We are the local North Hertfordshir al charity. of the Ramblers’ Association a nation all levels We cater for walkers of all ages and of of ability. We have a varied programme events weekly walks in this area, plus social Walking is and holidays in the UK and overseas. countryside a healthy way to enjoy our beautiful e. and to meet new like-minded peopl

going home to put your feet up!

ine on

North Herts Ramblers Association

– www.nhrg.org.uk

Hitchin Outer Orbital

North Herts This leaflet has been produced by the Countryside Ramblers Group with support from grants from Management Service (CMS) and using Herts District the Parish Paths Partnership, North The Parish Council and the Ramblers Association.

by CMS and Paths Partnership is administered il. funded by Hertfordshire County Counc e works with The Countryside Management Servic them care Communities in Hertfordshire to help information for and enjoy the environment. For rdshire’s on further opportunities to enjoy Hertfo visit countryside including Healthwalks 5.

45939 www.hertslink.org/cms or ring 01462

For a more detailed route description of the HOOP visit our website – see link on back page.

The North final stop takes you to the Herts Ramblers Association charming, peaceful hamlet of Charlton (point F), famous as the birthplace of Henry Bessemer of iron The Hitchin Outer Orbital Path – smelting fame and once home to HOOP allows you to explore the ng gone surroundi in and a foundry a now long of Hitchin historybuilt tiful beau gh throu villages, travelling windmill. tryside and

Hertfordshire coun mpassing a wide range of From enco Charlton you can make your wildlife habitats. The route is km) to the 12 miles ately way back to where you(19.3 started, oxim appr can be walked in several stages and market square, ectio for nsaonwell deserved local roads with bus conn drink into aHitch nearby cafe re. or pub, before in Town Cent

Walk the HOO

For travel details contact Intalink Travel k 0871 200 2233 or www.intalink.org.u

e (E) managed by Purwell Nine Springs Nature Reserv supports a wide the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust, open water to range of habitats and species. From nd this small site reedbeds, fen meadow to wet woodla on the reserve and has a lot to offer. Kingfishers breed water voles frequent the ditches.

lly a medieval “cow Oughtonhead Common was origina grazed their common” where Hitchin “commoners” and is of little use cattle. The land is prone to flooding now a wetland Local for agriculture or development. It is District Council Nature Reserve, owned by North Herts

and is grazed by native Longhorn cattle. known ‘Hitchin Cadwell Farm (C) is home to the well its height in the Lavender’. Lavender growing was at acres were grown nineteenth century when a hundred renowned around the town of Hitchin, becoming in the area nationally. After centuries of being grown farmed in the 1960’s, lavender eventually stopped being Farm. beginning again in 2000 at Cadwell road in Britain, The Icknield Way is known as the oldest

ace of Henry The hamlet of Charlton (F) is the birthpl the windmill was Bessemer of iron smelting fame and The Windmill Pub converted to a foundry at one time.

River Hiz rises at now occupies the windmill’s site. The Wellhead just outside the village.

Download a PDF of the HOOP leaflet and map here.

North Herts Ramblers Associat

NH Now October 2018

13

14

The clock is ticking to secure funding from Hertfordshire Warmer Homes The Hertfordshire Warmer Homes Scheme aims to help heat the homes of home owners and private sector tenants with young families, those who are over 75 or have a long-term health condition such as respiratory diseases. Some elements of the scheme are also available to all Hertfordshire residents.

Colin Felstead is 77 years old and had an 18 year old boiler that didn’t work properly, resulting in a very cold home for him and his wife.

Through the Herts Warmer Homes Scheme, funding was secured to provide Mr Felstead with a new combination boiler, smart clock technology and radiator controls, saving him an average of 25% a year on his annual gas bill.

He said: “I can’t thank Herts Warmer Homes enough for their help. They were so quick to act on my first enquiry. The radiators are on all the time and I’ve never known them to be so warm. I am very pleased with the whole installation.”

Assistance is available for: • Advice on switching to cheaper energy tariffs • Loft insulation • Cavity wall insulation • Solid wall insulation

NH Now life

• Oil boiler replacement

14

• LPG boiler replacement • Repairs to heating and hot water systems Hertfordshire Warmer Homes, which is funded by energy companies, was launched in winter 2017

by Hertfordshire County Council in partnership with 10 district councils, including NHDC.

NH Now October 2018

The scheme is due to close on 31 October, so be quick and apply if you think you might be eligible.

To apply or to find out more call 0300 123 4044 (local rate) or email info@hertshelp.net

15

Do you have something missing in your life?

Could you foster a child?

Hertfordshire County Council’s fostering recruitment team has launched a powerful film highlighting the urgent need for more foster carers in the county.

Currently, there are approximately 900 children looked after by Hertfordshire County Council, 70 per cent of whom, at any one time, are in foster care.

The majority of these children are over 10 years old.

To highlight the needs of these children and the transformation that foster parents can bring to their lives, the county council has created a moving film as part of its Something Missing Campaign.

The story follows the plight of a 12-year-old whose mum is unable to care for her, and is left feeling neglected, scared and needing help. It also tracks the lives of a couple who have the time, space and desire to welcome someone else in their lives.

NH Now life

Go to: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/somethingmissing, where you can find out more information about how to foster.

NH Now October 2018

15

16

WallJAM A North Herts based tech entrepreneur has made a major breakthrough after signing an agreement with Real Madrid World of Football.

Kimpton based Tim Worboys has spent a number of years developing an innovative rebound wall which is now starring in a five-year global tour, taking the world famous Spanish football La Liga brand to 15 cities across the world.

Having already worked with Nissan, Carabao and adidas, and seen his wall situated at Alton Towers and the National Football Museum in Manchester, Tim said of the Real Madrid World of Football agreement: “We are delighted to underline the place of WallJAM on a global stage and that we have been recognised by arguably the greatest brand in world football, who, with more than 600 million fans globally, are keen for their supporters to take on our challenge.

“It is our aim to see as many people of all ages engaged with the wall, showing that they can rise to the physical challenge and that they have the competitive spirit to beat not only their best scores but also that of their peers.”

Developed over a number of years, the wall registers the power, accuracy and speed with which users strike the ball against it and provides them with an instant score after each game, allowing people to compete against either their friends or against top players.

NH Now life

After an amazing journey in which he turned down the chance to appear on TV’s Dragon’s Den and used crowdfunding to develop his idea, Tim is now looking to take this North Herts born idea worldwide.

16

NH Now October 2018

Tim continued: “Player engagement through gamification is the key to driving social competition in sport and bringing out the competitive spirit in us all. This agreement provides a great shop window for WallJAM across the globe and we look forward to entering new markets and attracting new licensees.”

For further details contact Tim Worboys on 07753 719311.

17

Pickleball at Norton Common Free-to-use courts for an exciting new racquet sport called pickleball are now open for all to play on Norton Common, Letchworth. The three courts, funded by NHDC are already generating a buzz in the town with over 30 regular players.

Pickleball courts are the same size as badminton courts, with a net similar to tennis. A hollow plastic ball is struck using table tennis style paddles. The rules are simple and the game is easy and fun for beginners to learn, but soon develops into a fastpaced, competitive game for experienced players. Pickleball is an ideal game for youngsters to learn hand-eye co-ordination prior to taking up similar sports such as tennis, and is also great for those wishing to keep active in later life. New players can enjoy the sport and experience long rallies on the first day of playing and players with racket-sport experience find that their skills transfer immediately.

Active Letchworth, part of the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, funded equipment for the club and a group of enthusiastic volunteers have been instrumental in getting the club up and running. There are always new people turning up to learn the game and the first session is free. For more information visit the North Herts Pickleball Facebook page or email: northhertspickleballclub@gmail.com

Pickle your fancy?

Pickleball enthusiast and ambassador, Ruth Tomlinson said: “Pickleball is a sport that can be played by all ages and a variety of different skill levels. It is thought to be the world’s fastest growing racquet sport, so I am excited that these courts in Letchworth are now available for everyone to use for free.”

Ruth is also Chair of North Herts Pickleball, a club that runs regular two-hour sessions indoors in sports centres in Letchworth on Friday mornings and Hitchin on Sunday afternoons.

NH Now October 2018

17

NH Now life

18

Community

Transport scheme

The Community Transport scheme is a service which helps less able residents of North Herts and Stevenage solve their transport problems. It uses a dedicated team of volunteers who all use their own cars in their free time, to transport passengers who live locally to their required destination. All of the drivers are paid a mileage rate to cover the distance they travel, which is currently paid at 45p per mile.

18

NH Now October 2018

19

Managed by North Herts CVS, the scheme is aimed at individuals, both elderly and young, who have difficulty using other passenger transport. This may be because of age, frailty, a disability or other mobility problems - or simply because there is no alternative form of passenger transport available. The journeys undertaken can include hospital appointments, GP and other healthcare appointments, day centres and clubs etc.

It’s a service that is very much for the local community and one that is hugely valuable both for the passenger and the volunteer driver. It helps people who are lonely and isolated and brings much hope and peace of mind.

Commenting on behalf of the scheme, Jon Brown, Community Transport Manager at North Herts CVS said: “I want to send out a big appeal for more volunteer drivers.

We have a fantastic team of volunteers, but more help is needed. If you enjoy driving and helping people and can give just a few hours a week, helping to make the lives of less able residents that little bit easier then please do contact me. I would love to hear from you! The great thing about the role is that you give the time that suits you.”

I very much believe in the role of the volunteer, and giving a little of your time to someone or to a project can be incredibly rewarding, inspiring and encouraging.

For further details email jonbrown@nhcvs.org.uk or call 01462 689402. For more information visit: www.nhcvstransport.org.uk

Case Study Volunteer driver

and to make The chance to get out of the house been a major a real difference to other people has Scheme driver. positive for one Community Transport

been with the Anthony Balls, 73, from Hitchin, has After spotting scheme for the past three years. a church wall a poster appealing for drivers on ment, he has and applying on the spur of the mo enjoyed every minute.

ice and it is Anthony said: “It’s a worthwhile serv . I enjoy being great to get out and meet people t I can make a out in the car driving and know tha ments people real difference. With some appoint that can be a ask me to go with them and I know great comfort. n a taxi but we “Not only are we much cheaper tha appointment, are also there for the duration of the are going to people relax and for those who treatment.” hospital it can take their minds off

viously worked A retired design engineer who pre Engineering, with Royston based Thermal of journeys, Anthony has had a wide variety mate. including one trip with an old school

Alzheimer’s. It “I took a chap recently who had year at school turned out he was in the same ilar industry. as me and had also worked in a sim football we When we started talking about the a good chat. played he recalled a lot and we had great that he His wife said afterwards that it was it made me found something to talk about and happy to be able to help.”

versation is a Indeed being able to enjoy a con explains: “You key attribute of a driver as Anthony ple and enjoy have to be able to engage with peo and many speaking to them. It doesn’t take long you their life people are more than happy to tell story - which can be fascinating.” he receives an Mileage is paid for Anthony and setting out the email at the beginning of the week t seven days. journeys he has planned for the nex e years he has He estimates that in the past thre driven almost 12,000 miles.

NH Now October 2018

19

20

BALDOCK AT

Baldock is a town in North Herts with a rich history and a vibrant and social scene.

From its earliest times in the middle Iron Age, Baldock was a significant settlement and with a large quantity of finds of ancient coins in Hertfordshire, it has a Roman influence as well.

Although there is no entry for Baldock in the Domesday Book, it appears the town as we know it today was founded by the Knights Templar as a medieval market town in the 1140s. It has long been claimed that the name Baldock came from the Old French name for Baghdad: Baldac or later Baudac.

Documents of the time use the spelling Baudac while it is recorded as “Baldac” in the Pipe Rolls of Hertfordshire in 1168. The town of today has a distinct nod to the past, with many buildings dating from the sixteenth century, while some are as early as the fourteenth century.

The town was a major staging post between London and the north and as such, it hosted many coaching inns from the late 18th century and therefore has a wide High Street.

20

NH Now October 2018

Image: Ruth D’Onofrio

21

Baldock market Every Wednesday 9am-4pm

Baldock country market Every Friday 9.30am - 12 noon

Cakes, savouries, preserves, plants, floral arrangements, crafts, free-range eggs The Victoria, 11 Sun Street

Baldock Christmas Fair

Enjoy a community event on Saturday 1 December with music, food and drink, workshops and entertainment for young and old.The fair will take place along the High Street and also at the Community Centre, Arts and Heritage Centre and St Mary’s Church.

Gift shopping

Baldock has some stand-out shops in which to find special Christmas presents. There is fine art at Gallery 1066 in Willow Mews off Hitchin Street, fabulous timepieces at Howard’s Antique Clocks in Whitehorse Street and chic home accessories at Staffy B on the High Street, to name just three.

St Mary’s Church Christmas Tree Festival Christmas trees decorated by residents, schools and organisations in all manner of styles will turn St Mary’s church and hall into a fantastic venue on Saturday, 1 December and Sunday, 2 December. Refreshment and lunches (Saturday only) will be on offer along with home-made cake and biscuits.

There will also be a Santa’s grotto.

Variety at Christmas Herts Variety Christmas Show promises songs, fun and a little bit of everything. This year’s event takes place on Thursday and Friday, 13 and 14 December, at Baldock Community Centre. Tickets are £5 (concessions £3.50) from the community centre.

Money raised will go to Garden House Hospice and other groups.

NH Now October 2018

21

NH Now events

22

What’s On

Dear Zoo Broadway Cinema 10– 11 & Theatre, Letchworth Garden City 10 October – 1.30pm 11 October – 10am & 1.30pm Ages 2+ Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell’s best selling lift the flap book makes its stage premiere.

This production will enchant all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction.

Tickets £14, Family £50, school rate available www.broadway-letchworth.com

01462 681088

October Herts Jazz Festival

6 – 7 October, Broadway Theatre, Letchworth

The Broadway Theatre are proud to host the Herts Jazz Festival this year. Acts include Georgie Fame, the Joey DeFrancesoco Quartet and many other jazz artists. Find out more and book tickets for shows at www.hertsjazzfestival.co.uk

Ashwell Book Weekend St Marys Church, Mill Street, Ashwell, Saturday, 6 October 2018 10am - 5pm, Sunday, 7 October 2018 2pm - 5pm

Walking tours of Hitchin 12 October and 11 November, 10.30am to 12pm

12

Wrap up warm, enjoy the autumnal weather and take a history walk around Hitchin town centre. Hosted by the British Schools Museum, find out more and how to book here: https://britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk/discover/whats-on/

Dinosaur World Live

30 October - 1 November, Knebworth House, Knebworth

Broadway Cinema & Theatre, Letchworth Garden City, 28 October – 2pm, 29 October – 11am & 2pm Ages 3+

Wear Halloween fancy dress (children and adults!) and take part in fun games and activities including ‘Whats in the box?’, ‘Terror Tunnel’ and the’Pumpkin Trail’. Complete your Pumpkin Passport to win a prize! Fancy dress competition each day at 3pm. Find out more at: www.knebworthhouse.com/events/ pumpkin-trail-treats/ NH Now October 2018

6–7

Browse and buy from the hundreds of books on offer at bargain prices. Tea, coffee and home-made cakes available. Entry £1.

Children under 16 free. www.stmarysashwell.org.uk/what/future.htm

Pumpkin Trail and Treats

22

6–7

28 – 29

A brand new dino-mite adventure! Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new show for all the family.

Tickets £14, Group rate available www.broadway-letchworth.com 01462 681088

23

Christmas Pantos and productions Pantos Letchworth Pantomime - SPADS perform Aladdin at St Francis College Theatre 27 - 30 December Performances are 1pm & 5pm 27 December through to 30 December and bookings are now being taken. Call Ticketsource on 0845 652 2478.

Market Theatre Hitchin - Hansel and Gretel Go Down In The Woods (adult) 30 November onwards Snow Queen (kids show) 15 - 29 December Tickets 01462 433553 Kimpton Players Aladdin 29 - 30 November, 1 December. A traditional pantomime with a new and original script. Tickets 01438 832620 Queen Mother Theatre Nutcracker & The Mouse King 7-9 December and 14-16 December.

Tickets 01462 455166

Tenors Un Limited

8

8 December

The number one selling operatic trio Tenors Un Limited, will be performing their new Christmas show, as part of the group’s 15th anniversary celebration UK tour. This is fresh from their recent charttopping success with “Who is He?” in aid of The Salvation Army which went in at number one on the iTunes classical chart.

Tickets £21 Broadway Cinema and Theatre, Letchworth Garden City Box Office 01462 681088 www.broadway-letchworth.com

Santa’s New Sleigh 9-11 December

9 – 11

Christmas is fast approaching and Santa’s sleigh is nowhere to be found.

Will Sprocket and Dibs be able to create a new sleigh in time or will Christmas be cancelled? Can you help them save the day? Only time will tell but with audience participation, sing-alongs and a present from Santa for every child it promises to be the perfect festive treat.

Ideal for pre-school and suitable for children up to eight years.

Tickets £13, Family £48 Broadway Cinema and Theatre, Letchworth Garden City Box Office 01462 681088 www.broadway-letchworth.com NH Now October 2018

23