Living Magazines - Berkhamsted - Spring 2021

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ISSUE 78

BERKHAMSTED

SPRING 2021

YOUR QUALITY LOCAL MAGAZINE

SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES SINCE 2001

GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT!

BERKHAMSTED IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS SEE OUR NEW BUSINESS DIRECTORY INSIDE

Grow your own veg and edible ornamentals

ENCOURAGING INDEPENDENCE

Tips that will help your teens stay safe, and help calm your nerves!

WALKS AROUND TOWN

Explore the Ridgeway this weekend

BERKHAMSTED’S QUALITY QUARTERLY MAGAZINE. DELIVERED BY TO 11,293 HOMES IN BERKHAMSTED & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

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Take a step in the right direction.

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Long-term financial security for you and your loved ones is your priority, and it’s ours too.

Navigating the savings allowances and exemptions available to you at tax year-end can have a big impact on achieving your goals. It’s our job to guide you and provide expert advice.

Contact us before 5 April, and together we can plan the route to your future.

STRINGER MANN CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNERS Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

Tel: 01442 874888 Email: stringermann@sjpp.co.uk www.stringermann.com

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.

The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives.

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Welcome to the Spring issue!

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BERKHAMSTED SPRING 2021

fter a long winter we are all looking forward to brighter days ahead this spring. As we go to press, we are still in lockdown 3. But hopefully, by the time you read this, those measures will have eased as the vaccinations continue.

Whatever is going on in your life right now, there are some constants - teenagers always grow up, and always want independence, so we have some great tips to help them as they venture out. Gardens will burst into life in spring whether we are in lockdown or not, so we look at growing veg that both looks and tastes good.

Many of us will continue to try to keep fit and healthy, and after a long winter lockdown, we’ve come up with some quick and simple healthy habits that should get you moving in the right direction. And if you’re hoping to move house, we have some expert

advice for anyone wanting to get on the property ladder.

We do have something new for you too - a crossword by Ian Bateman, based around local place names. We hope you like it, do let us know what you think!

As always, the magazine includes local news, events (where possible) and features. We love to hear from local people, groups, schools and organisations, so please email Naomi at editorial@livingmags.info.

Also, remember it’s the first digital Census day on March 21!

We hope this issue finds you safe and well and wish you happy reading.

Alison and Naomi ditor Owner & E

29 The latest books from our

CONTACT US 01442 82430 0

32 Grow veg that looks good

42 Get on the property

CONTENTS 4

News and views from Berkhamsted and surrounding villages

18 Support your local high street

IN LIVINGMAFGOS@ .INFO

region’s authors - and a chance to win!

enough to eat

21 Bake these colourful cookies 34 Discover the Ridgeway from Wendover 22 Victorian tales 36 Healthy habits you will stick to!

25 B2B Directory: Find local companies that can help your business 40 Keeping teens safe

ladder

45 Try our new crossword - and win Catherine Alliott’s latest book

46 Local events this spring 50 Essential local services

The only local magazine offering shrink-wrapped guaranteed delivery to 11,293* addresses in the HP4 postcode area,

by Royal Mail every quarter. *Royal Mail postcode data . Published quarterly in March, June, September & November The Team: Publisher: Alison Page / Editor: Naomi MacKay / Designer: Neil Randle Registered Address: Jubilee Gardens, Tring, Herts HP23 4JG. Living Magazines are published by independent publisher Alison Page Marketing.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited without permission. The publisher will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

Opinions expressed by authors and advertisers in this publication are not specifically endorsed by Alison Page Marketing.

For exclusive offers & updates between issues go to:

WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO

LOCAL FOCUS SEND US YOUR NEWS / TELEPHONE: 01442 824300 / EMAIL: EDITORIAL@LIVINGMAGS.INFO / NEXT DEADLINE: 20/4/21

Letter from the Mayor Fellow Residents,

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y the time you read this, it will have been almost 12 months since the first COVID-19 lockdown. It’s been a pretty torrid time, especially since the autumn, with families unable to get together for Christmas and everyone locally in Tier 4, then an extended lockdown so the virus doesn’t overwhelm the hospitals. Lockdown during last summer was a foretaste of what it would be like to shut shops and businesses, but even with grants from the Government many people have struggled to keep their businesses afloat. Our high streets are already displaying ‘To Let’ or ‘For Sale’ signs so we can expect to see ‘pop-up’ shops while landlords find willing tenants.

I mentioned in the last edition the plan to make some changes to Berkhamsted High Street to improve social distancing, help our shops to gain more custom (the Borough has a team working on high street regeneration) and create a café culture that could attract more visitors who would support our shops. We have a few hurdles to jump before we can bring this to a public consultation, which will be undertaken with help from the County Council.

Coming back to lockdown and job loss, the Town Council has a budget to support local charities and volunteer groups. While it’s not possible for the Council to support individuals seeking help with bills or food, a good organisation to call is Dacorum Community Trust on 01442 253216.

Finally, a huge thanks to all staff keeping schools, play groups and shops open, and those volunteers helping with food deliveries to our vulnerable communities. Not forgetting all those unsung heroes – our paramedics, NHS staff, the Police and our Borough staff collecting bins and keeping the roads safe.

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Local Plan consultation ends

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s Berkhamsted Living went to press, the deadline came to an end on the public consultation process for the Dacorum Local Plan.

The plan drafts out the future of local communities (from 2020 until 2038) setting out where new facilities, homes and infrastructure will be provided.

The Plan promotes building nearly 17,000 new homes with major development to the South & South West of Berkhamsted and to the East of Tring.

The Chilterns Countryside Group, Chiltern Society and Berkhamsted Rotary have questioned a number of points on the plan, including the fact that the government is still working on the planning reforms proposed in the recent White Paper 2020: Planning for the Future and a government announcement that planning reforms will prioritise development of brownfield and urban sites, which will aim to protect our green spaces.

Find the plan at www.dacorum.gov.uk, and the CCG’s objections at www.chilterncountrysidegroup.org

Dentist saves a life

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tars must have been aligned one day in January when Nirav Dalia was running late for work and stopped to read a text while walking down Berkhamsted high street.

As Nirav, a dentist at Bow House dental surgery stopped, he heard a call for help from Nash Estate Agents, where a woman had collapsed.

When Nirav’s attempts to resuscitate her didn’t work, he rushed to get the defibrillator from the Bow House surgery. The patient was taken to hospital by Air Ambulance and survived.

Dr Edward Masheder, owner of Bow House in Tring and Berkhamsted is now looking to introduce training of basic life support as this incident has shown how vital it is. Nirav, meanwhile, has been nominated for various community awards.

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

LOCAL FOCUS SEND US YOUR NEWS / TELEPHONE: 01442 824300 / EMAIL: EDITORIAL@LIVINGMAGS.INFO / NEXT DEADLINE: 20/4/21

Doing what comes naturally O

ne consolation of the past 12 months must be our intensified connection with nature.

In the darkest days of the pandemic people have found strength and comfort in the stunning countryside that makes the Chilterns so special.

Yet this connection also has consequences.

Home working is here to stay, meaning people can live away from the urban sprawl, driving the demand for new housing and infrastructure. And our desire to be outdoors has seen nature reserves and private landowners alike appeal for visitors to stay on paths and take litter home.

This is an irony not lost on charities such as the Chiltern Society, which has been on a 50-year mission against the threats of overbearing development, wildlife habitat loss and climate change.

‘Covid-19 has changed the way we work, travel and spend our free time,’ says Tom Beeston, chief officer at the Chiltern Society, ‘There is an opportunity to put nature at the heart of our recovery and mitigate some of the risks facing the Chilterns.’

One development the Society is closely watching is the Dacorum Borough Council Local Plan, which plans on building another 16,899 (+28%) houses in Dacorum by 2038. The Plan promotes building nearly 17,000 new homes with major development to the South & South West of Berkhamsted and to the East of Tring.

Yet Tom is positive. ‘Chiltern Society has a growing army of members and volunteers helping improve and protect the area,’ he says.

‘Whether it be business reducing their carbon footprint or volunteers maintaining pathways, we are lucky people care so passionately and

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want to join us on our mission to protect the countryside.’

To get involved with Chiltern Society campaigns or to become a member visit chilternsociety.org.uk

Tony goes on tour B

erkhamsted resident Tony Evans, known for his voluntary work as front of house director at the Court Theatre Tring, has set up a long-distance cycle touring business.

Glaudax Cycle Tours has been created in partnership with Tony’s brother, Richard, an ultra-distance cyclist who has cycled round the world.

Find out more at www.glaudax.co.uk.

Happy birthday to us!

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t’s a big year for Living magazines! We will be celebrating our 20th anniversary this winter and would love you to join in our celebrations.

We are calling for local people, organisations and businesses to tell us about Berkhamsted 20 years ago. Perhaps you have photos from the high street 20 years ago, that show how it has changed. Maybe you belong to a local organisation and have photos from that year.

Or maybe your own business or organisation is celebrating a special anniversary this year too.

Please email stories, information and images (high-resolution please) to editorial@livingmags.info

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

FROM

£30

FOR FULL MEMBERSHIP PACK

PHOTO: CHRIS HOWE

Join today to preserve, celebrate and campaign for the Chilterns

Members are helping to: l build a cleaner, greener Chilterns l restore, enhance and protect Chilterns wildlife l maintain access to nature to improve our health and wellbeing l bring Chilterns heritage and arts to life

Visit chilternsociety.org.uk or call 01494 771250 CONSERVING • CAMPAIGNING • PROMOTING

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Abbot’s Hill gets top marks!

Growing plans in Northchurch

e saw teachers, full of enthusiasm for their subject, delivering pacey lessons, helping each individual pupil achieve their very best. Dedication is not in doubt.’

So reads one of the many highlights in the January 2021 Good Schools Guide review of Abbot’s Hill School, an ISI rated ‘Excellent’ 3-16 girls’ school. The school is nestled in 76 acres of parkland in Hemel, but is within 20 minutes of Berkhamsted.

In February 2020, the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that Abbot’s Hill is ‘Excellent in all areas’ while also boasting an Ofsted-rated Outstanding day nursery.

ge UK Dacorum, in conjunction with Sunnyside Rural Trust, is creating a Community Allotment Plot on Sunnyside’s Northchurch site. The plot is intended to be used primarily by Age UK Dacorum clients and their carers, and in particular those experiencing early signs of dementia, as the sensory smells and touch of nature are very calming and memory soothing.

There will also be an opportunity for people to plant and dig their own fruit, vegetables, plants and flowers or simply relax and observe the changing colours and produce during the seasons.

Thanks to the generosity of Berkhamsted Town Council, Northchurch and Berkhamsted County Councillors, a summer house will also be available to enjoy.

Berkhamsted School, meanwhile, has donated benches to enhance the area.

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Peru captured in pictures

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erkhamsted photographer Tony Hutchings used last year’s lockdown to complete a project started almost 40 years ago.

Tony has published a unique collection of photographs taken on his six month 15,000km journey around Peru in 1982, much of it driving a second-hand VW Beetle.

‘Having fallen in love with Peru, its people and its spectacular scenery in 1982, I felt compelled to provide a photographic record in print, so people can share some of my experiences,’ said Tony.

He became fascinated by Peru after seeing a film about the Andes, reading National Geographic articles and hearing stories from Peruvians living in London.

Peru 1982 documents Tony’s incredible adventure, exploring Peru’s cities, villages and some of the most remote parts of the country, including Iquitos, the Amazon city of half a million people, only accessible by air or boat.

Find out more at www.livingmags.info/ peru-1982

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Heritage doors open

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eritage Open Days are always a popular event in the Berkhamsted calendar - so make sure you save the date for this year’s events.

This year’s festival is due to take place between September 10 and 19, with the national theme of Edible England. Look out for details of a number of local free guided history walks/ tours around the town and countryside.

Watch this space (and www.livingmags.info) for more details.

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

LOCAL

Bid to save Crystal Palace

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he Berkhamsted Castle Trust continues to battle to save Berkhamsted’s Crystal Palace Pub. The building, in Station Road, has been earmarked for development as its owner Punch Partnerships Ltd claims it is not viable as a pub any longer and wants to convert it into three dwellings.

However, according to the Trust, the pub chain has failed to recognise the significance of the building. The Crystal Palace pub was built

by John Edward Lane (see our history feature on page 22 for more on the Lane family) whose nursery won many medals at the ‘real’ Crystal Palace in London. Mr Lane knew Joseph Paxton (who designed the London landmark) personally.

He also ran a successful brewing business and owned several pubs in Berkhamsted, including the Crystal Palace - whose design paid tribute to the original - see picture above right.

Adrian Barham, Chairman, Berkhamsted Castle Trust, told Berkhamsted Living: ‘We have recently had confirmation from Dacorum Borough Council that our nomination to have the Crystal Palace listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) has been rejected on the basis that the Council was of the view that there was no evidence that the pub was used in the years prior to its closure to further the social well-being or social interest of the local community.

‘We continue to be of the opinion that an alternative operating model, combining a new visitor centre for the Castle/heritage facility with continued operation of the pub on a community involvement basis would be a viable proposition, and are exploring how best we might still put this in place.

‘An indication of a way forward to purchase the freehold from Punch was made as part of our ACV submission. Given Punch’s ultimate owner, Patron Capital Partners, makes a significant point of emphasising its charitable and community credentials, we

are surprised that Punch seems determined to ride roughshod over the community and Town Council’s very genuine concerns at their proposal to convert the pub to residential property, which will result in the loss of an anchor of the Conservation Area of over 160 years standing.’

Punch Pubs MD Andy Spencer commented: ‘We continue to explore our options concerning the Crystal Palace pub in Berkhamsted and the site’s potential development. We can confirm that the Berkhamsted Castle Trust has not been in contact with Punch Pubs & Co.’

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

Spring 2021 / 9

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Helping the arts during lockdown T he arts in our area have been hard hit by the pandemic and successive lockdowns. We are lucky to have a broadranging creative community around us, so we caught up with some of them...

Cellist Clare O’Connell told us: ‘I have felt huge local support for my Behind The Mirror series - I have a very loyal following who feel like they know me personally (lots of them do!) and right from the start when I had to cancel concerts in the first lockdown a few donated their ticket prices anyway.

‘Every concert I have put on since the first lockdown has, unsurprisingly, sold out, partly because people are starved of live music and social events where they get to go out and have a communal experience.

‘I also have a friends scheme where people get extras in return for donations.’

Clare and Elainer Turner have been developing and recording some new music.

Find their first track on ‘Bandcamp’.

Neil Kennedy at Berkhamsted Music told us: ‘Berkhamsted Music has paused but plans to restart socially-distanced chamber music concerts as soon as possible; hopefully this month (March) with the Ruisi String Quartet.

The concerts that were not possible because of lockdown have been rescheduled for April

10 / Berkhamsted Living

and May, extending our usual season. We are grateful to our audience for their support and their donations, which have helped keep live music going. See www. berkhamstedmusic.co.uk.’

If you have discovered or re-discovered a love of art of any kind during the past few months, consider joining Berkhamsted Art Society, a welcoming group of friendly artists of all abilities who are keen to share their interest and knowledge to encourage each other to be creative.

The group holds regular (temporarily Zoom) coffee mornings with an optional themed art fun challenge. A recent online oil paint demonstration was of an alleyway scene in Fez in Morocco. See www.berkhamstedartsociety.co.uk

A brazier and barbecue bubble

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arie and Robert Laken, who run The Faith Works Trust are opening it up for family and support bubbles to safely enjoy the open air.

The 30-acre Christian Retreat and Resource Centre is just outside Berkhamsted at Spring Meadow Farm.

Marie said: ‘We have had to re-think the opportunities we can present to people and have come up with a brazier and barbecue bubble.

People can keep warm and safe, enjoy food together and the children can run freely, play with the water spiral and ride the woodland bumps.’

Groups (only one allowed at a time) should book via the website and there is a suggested donation of £10 for three hours.

They may also offer camping in spring and summer so get in touch via the website at www.faithworkstrust.org.uk

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

CBD success

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hen Berkhamsted student Harry Ephremsen discovered a product that helped his stress and sleeping issues at university, he became so passionate about it that he quit his studies to set up his own brand.

Harry, 20, discovered CBD during a period of bad anxiety while he was at university, and found it helped him manage his stress levels and improved his sleep.

Through his brand Hide & Seek, Harry wants to demystify CBD, and explain what it is and how it can help people with conditions such as insomnia and joint inflammation.

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These felines are the cat’s whiskers!

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Advertorial

hen cats are abandoned, lost or lose their owners, the lovely folk at the Cats Protection Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted branch are there to help them.

Meet two lovely cats who are looking for a home at the moment. They have lots of other friends who would love to find a new owner.

Contact the branch on 0345 3711851 if you would like to give one a new home.

Lady P: Lady Penelope, (Penny to her friends) is a very sweet, lovely, affectionate little lady; a real purr machine. When she is near you she will stand on her back legs for strokes or is always happy to just sit with you. She loves her toys, her food and her bed. But above all she loves a lap to curl up on and a human to follow.

Pepita: This beauty is five-year-old Pepi (Pepita). Pepi has moments of craziness when she runs around - and then needs to rest. She loves people’s company and curling up with you on the sofa. She is a bit

The silent pandemic D

omestic abuse can affect anyone and it’s on the rise. In fact it’s now being called the Silent Pandemic. The need to stay home or self-isolate has meant more victims are stuck in lockdown with their abusers, unable to escape. What’s worse is that more children are witnessing the abuse.

It’s not just about physical violence, abuse can be about controlling behaviour, financial control,

12 / Berkhamsted Living

overweight so would need someone who is happy to keep an eye on her treats and do a bit of playing to get those love handles off!

Website: www.cats.org.uk/dacorum

Protect your pets from theft

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ollowing the theft of Benny the Pomeranian from Tesco Tring car park on 17 December, Inspector Nicola Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Crime Reduction Team, told Berkhamsted Living: ‘Concerns have increased around dog thefts during lockdown as the demand for pets has grown.

‘While thefts in Hertfordshire have remained relatively low, across the country there has been growing concerns over the theft of dogs from homes and breeders’ kennels. Dog owners should join Hertfordshire’s Neighbourhood Watch to get the latest alerts and advice: www.owl.co.uk/herts.’

For more advice head to www.livingmags. info/dog-thefts

threats, sexual violence or combinations of all of these and many other things.

We welcome calls from anyone – victim-survivors, men as well as women, those in same-sex relationships, BAME, the elderly and those with disabilities, concerned friends, family members and work colleagues, as well as professionals.

Domestic abuse is everybody’s problem. It’s time to make it stop.

If you would like more information about domestic abuse please go to www. hertsdomesticabusehelpline.org.

Call us free on 08 088 088 088 to talk to us confidentially – we won’t ask your name and contact details. You can talk through the issues that concern you and we’ll give you some phone numbers to call when you are ready. If you prefer you can send us a confidential email at Kim@mailpurple.org

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

Carmenta Adult & Baby Medical & Wellbeing Centre. 10 years of therapeutic services

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hat an incredible journey it has been for Carmenta Life from conception to a fully-grown, 10-year-old, vibrant and forward-thinking Medical and Wellbeing centre! Conveniently situated in the heart of Berkhamsted, in one of the most historic and tranquil areas of the town, Carmenta has made an impact and contributed to the health and wellbeing of many men, women and families in the area.

During this time, our experienced team of medical and wellbeing practitioners have been providing outstanding quality care and services in a comfortable and relaxing environment offering an extensive range of physical and mental health therapies for adults and children as well as a wide variety of fertility, pregnancy and baby services.

Since opening, our range of services has

extended to meet the needs of the community.

BodyRefine corrective and rehabilitation exercise, massage and personal training have been popular additions, plus our regular adult and baby Osteopathy, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Massage, Counselling, Coaching, Ultrasound Scanning, Medical Consultations and Private GP services. This year we also welcome experienced Five Elements Acupuncturist David Thorpe.

Over the years we have added specialist baby services, such as Tongue Tie assessments and division by Lactation Consultant, Julie Carden alongside our regular FREE weekly Breastfeeding support and antenatal courses for the NCT, plus Hypnobirthing classes.

Adult Yoga and Tai Chi are now firm fixtures, along with our usual Parent and Baby Music, Massage and Pre and Postnatal Yoga Classes.

Advertorial

LOCAL

Carmenta Adult & Baby Medical & Wellbeing Centre

Here for you.

A confidential freephone number for anyone affected by domestic abuse.

Contact us and we will signpost you to the help you need.

Services Include: General Practitioners Physiotherapy & Osteopathy Sports & Deep Tissue Massage Personal Training Pilates & Yoga Counselling & Psychotherapy

Freephone 08 088 088 088 Monday to Friday: 9am–9pm Weekends: 9am–4pm

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www.hertsdomesticabusehelpline.org Registered charity number: 1184899

Reflexology & Acupuncture

Chesham House, Church Lane, Berkhamsted, HP4 2AX

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

www.carmenta-life.co.uk 01442 872 591 03300 886020

Spring 2021 / 13

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LOCAL

Family Law myths

by Georgina Allen, Solicitor at Rayden Solicitors, Berkhamsted

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often get asked about family law myths so here I share two of the more common ones.

It’s important to dispel these myths because often misconceptions lead to bad decisions, which can have a serious impact on someone’s life.

We’re not married but I am a common law spouse This is one of the most common myths I hear repeated to me. It is a mystery how it has attained mythical status but let me be clear – there is no such thing! Okay, so there was such a thing but it was abolished in 1753 - nearly 300 years ago!

The simple position is that when a relationship of two people who are not married or in a civil partnership breaks down, the Courts’ powers are limited. Separated partners can ask the Courts to deal with the regulation of ownership and sale of property on principles of Trust and Property Law. They can potentially seek financial support from their ex-partner for the benefit of their children and can apply for Child Arrangements and other Court Orders under the Children Act 1989. Unfortunately for separating partners, this is largely the extent of it. The Courts are not concerned with fairness, the overall picture or maintenance for the benefit of one of the former partners.

However, the good news is that a proposed Bill, the Cohabitation Rights Bill, has started its journey through Parliament, receiving its first reading in 2020. But the second reading is yet to be scheduled so if the draft Bill does make its way into law, it isn’t going to be any time soon!

Pre-nuptial agreements - not worth the paper they are written on!

This is no longer true, but as with many things in law, the answer isn’t straightforward. While there is no legislation dealing with pre-nuptial agreements in the UK, there is a growing body of supportive case law.

Georgina Allen

English law currently states that pre-nuptial agreements are not automatically binding.

However, if properly prepared, they may well be upheld. So what does ‘properly prepared’ mean?

Well, these are the key criteria for a pre-nuptial to be capable of being upheld (although there is still no guarantee): 1. The agreement must be freely entered into (with each party taking independent legal advice).

2. The couple must understand the implications of the agreement (which means full financial disclosure from each other so they understand what future claims either may be giving up).

3. It must not be unfair to uphold the parties to their agreement in the circumstances at the time of the divorce. Pre-nuptial agreements are more likely to be upheld in short marriages - there is less chance of the agreement becoming out of date or being superseded by unforeseen events during the marriage.

This area of law is in desperate need of reform. In 2014 the Law Commission made recommendations for pre-nuptial agreements to be legally binding. However, anything is yet to come of it.

So, couples considering a pre-nuptial agreement should each seek independent legal advice, and make sure the agreement is done properly. If they do this, there is far more chance of the agreement being upheld.

FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES AND MORE GO TO WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/NEWS

Spring 2021 / 15

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Caroline brings food festivals home Keeping it loql

Local foodies will be pleased to hear March’s box is themed ‘The Chilterns’ and features a selection of scrummy local delicacies.

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ring businesswoman Caroline Stranders has launched Taste Treats, a new monthly subscription box targeted at discerning foodies.

Caroline explains: ‘Our foodies receive a themed box every month filled to the brim with a surprise selection of exciting new food and drink samples.’

scheme started by a Berkhamsted man, with the aim of helping the high street benefit from digital orders, is going from strength to strength.

Loql was created by Matt Lindop, along with a worldwide group of digital natives.

So far Petals, toy shop Hamlins, Berkhamsted Sports, Creative Collective, The Olive Tree and The Meating Room are on board. The scheme has just taken its 1,000th order.

But it’s about more than just online shopping, says Matt. Next up is an electric cargo bike for local deliveries.

See more at: https://berko.loql.ly

Advertorial

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all?

That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value.

Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.

The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light - all fully fitted in less than a day from just £355! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.

us by our existing customers - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make

that happen for every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9558 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to

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SHOP LOCAL Here’s our selection of great things to buy in Berkhamsted, Tring and the villages

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Bailey & Sons - Berkhamsted 01 Silver Knot Bangle £55.00 02 Silver Hoops £19.50 03 Silver & Gold Plated Bee £65 Beechwood Fine Foods - Tring 04 Bakedin Home Baking Kit £3.45 05 Diforti Italian Style Pastries £3.50 06 Sawuchay Table Sauces £3.25 Berkhamsted Arts and Crafts - Berkhamsted 07 Macrame Planter Kit £15.40 Creative Collective - Berkhamsted 08 Cotton Velvet Robes £95 09 Organic French Soaps & Hand Creme Gift Set £26 10 Velvet Cushions £38 to £40 Debbie Shrimpton Illustrates - Berkhamsted 11 Framed Illustration of Berkhamsted Cricket Club, Ashlyns School and Berko Over The Rainbow £45 each.

Doodleshoe Paper Goods - Berkhamsted 12 Sausage dog birthday card, Cat birthday card and Playing cards birthday card £2.75 each

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Fancy That - Tring 13 Jellycat Fuddlewuddle Elephant Baby £12.50 and Medium £20 and Matching Book £11 14 Harry Potter Dobble £14.99 15 Dunoon Fine Bone China Mugs from £14.50 16 Padi Cushion £15 Gems and Jules - Tring 17 Dreamcatcher earrings £29 18 Bohemian orbital pendant and earrings £145 Wigginton Village Shop - Wigginton 19 Yvette’s Chocolates Potten End from £4.95 20 Bee Bombs wildflower seeds £7.99 21 Dionne’s Garden bird nesting boxes £19 If you would like to present your seasonal products in our Shop Local section, get in touch: info@livingmags.info

Spring 2021 / 19

Notes of spice, juniper and citrus with a hint of colour and sweetness without the use of sugar.

Notes of spice, juniper and citrus with a hint of colour and sweetness without the use of sugar WILSTONE | TRING | HERTS | HP23 4NT

Produce available from over 30 local suppliers!

CAMPFIRE OLD TOM GIN

Head over to our distillery shop on Friday or Saturday to discover our full range of award winning gins.

PUDDINGSTONE DISTILLERY

Wilstone, Tring, Herts HP23 4NT puddingstonedistillery.com

Home produced lamb & beef Heygates animal feeds & pet foods Relax in our tea room and browse our produce

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LEGENDARY BEER FROM HERTFORDSHIRE VISIT OUR BREWERY SHOP  DRAUGHT & BOTTLED BEER TO TAKEAWAY  LIMITED EDITION & EXPERIMENTAL BREWS  GIFT VOUCHERS

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In 2021 our Monthly Specials will be raising funds and awareness for Chilterns Dog Rescue Society.

Dunsley Farm, London Road, Tring HP23 6HA N 01442 890721 D www.tringbrewery.co.uk

RECIPE

RAINBOW COOKIES

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n this issue, Victoria Chidgey of Little Tring Cakes, who opened Waters Edge earlier in the year (previously Bluebell Tea Rooms) at Marsworth Reservoir, shares with our readers how to make one of their most popular items - Rainbow Cookies. Perfect for some family baking over the Easter weekend!

Method Pre-heat the oven to 160 C fan, 180 C 1. Cream together the butter and sugar, until light and fluffy.

2. Gradually beat in the egg and vanilla.

3. Add the sifted dry ingredients to form a stiff cookie dough mixture.

4. Let the cookie dough rest in the fridge for at least an hour.

5. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll into balls.

6. Dip each ball into the smarties and then place onto a baking tray, ensuring they are well spaced apart (to allow for spreading) 7. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown in colour.

8. Once out of the oven leave the cookies to cool on the baking tray.

For the cookie dough: • 260g Plain Flour • ½ tsp Bicarbonate Soda • ½ tsp Baking Powder • 0.180 kg Butter

• 225g Caster Sugar • 1 Egg • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract • Smarties to decorate

Waters Edge serves cakes, barista made coffee and selection of savoury food (all homemade and locally sourced). They plan to serve an all-day brunch menu, wine list supplied by Tring Winery, a cocktail list, premium draft beers and an evening ‘small plates’ menu.

Do you have a family or favourite recipe that you would like to share with our readers? Maybe you have a recipe for a local speciality or heritage dish? Email us at editorial@livingmags.co.uk Spring 2021 / 21

Fruit pickers at the nurseries of horticulturalist John Edward Lane senior (©BLHMS)

Discovering our Victorian ancestors

Berkhamsted’s Rectory Lane Cemetery can tell some fascinating tales, as Community Engagement Office Kate Campbell explains

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he previously neglected Rectory Lane Cemetery has been transformed over the past three years ‘from a dead space to a living place’ with the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the work and dedication of many volunteers and professionals, shining a light on those who are buried there and providing a community heritage asset and green haven in Berkhamsted.

One of our noted Victorian burials is horticulturalist John Edward Lane senior, who developed the family’s Lane’s Nurseries business, founded in 1777 into an enterprise well-known across the country and beyond.

Trains were laid on for Londoners to visit their rose gardens; they exported grapes to France and Belgium; they exhibited prize-winning plants far and wide and their nurseries provided employment to many in Berkhamsted.

He also diversified into beer brewing and established a number of public houses,

22 / Berkhamsted Living

including the Crystal Palace (the pub which is now the subject of a campaign to save it from residential redevelopment). He embellished it with a grand frontage in honour of his friend Sir Joseph Paxton’s great exhibition halls in London, at which the Lanes exhibited. Sadly, Lanes ceased trading in the 1960s.

Next to the Lane memorials is one of our finest tombs - ‘Sacred to the memory of Mrs Anne Hewson of Woburn Place, Russell Square, London … erected by Mr William Parkins (of this town) in grateful remembrance of his aunt’s affectionate kindness to himself and family.’

Anne was the sister of the first Sexton of the Cemetery. She inherited a substantial sum of money through a relationship with a candlemaker. She put her nephew William through school and paid for his apprenticeship as a stationer, a successful career which culminated in him establishing, with his partner Mr Gotto, Parkins & Gotto, the first department store in Oxford Street.

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LOCAL HISTORY

for pre-match drinks, having ‘appointed their two captains; he that ruled over the floury men being a jolly baker one Edward Kingham; and he to whom the knights of the cleaver gave allegiance was Thomas Tompkins a merry butcher’. They then formed a procession to the cricket ground, where ‘great multitudes Berkhamsted’s William Parkins founded Oxford Street’s first department store, of people were attracted by thanks to his sister’s generosity the noise of the instruments At 46, Anne married Thomas Hewson, and the novelty of the spectacle’. The cricket match a London surgeon nine years her junior, itself appears to have been pretty short before undertaking to pay for all the expenses of their everyone returned again to the Crown for more Woburn Place residence. Did he want greater conviviality, dancing to the band and singing. access to her wealth? Twenty years later Hewson It sounds like quite an event! We wonder what was acquitted at the Central Criminal Court of trades or occupations would be represented in ‘conspiring to procure an order for the confinement of an equivalent match today in Berkhamsted – a person of sound mind in a Lunatic Asylum.’ estate agents and coffee shop owners, maybe?

The Rectory Lane Cemetery project is indebted to the volunteer Unfortunately, Anne didn’t escape the lunacy researchers who unearth the fascinating stories of the people charge – after Hewson’s death an inquisition who lived (and died) before us and shaped this town. To declared her to be of ‘unsound mind’. To repay discover more go to www.rectorylanecemetery.org.uk the debt, William moved into Woburn Place to look after her and, on her death, brought her back to Berkhamsted.

There are others of humbler occupation from that era, such as Thomas Tompkins, from a long line of butchers, and Edward Kingham, a baker like his father before him. The Herts Advertiser and St Albans Times of August 1892 reported an event of friendly rivalry – a match of Bread v Meat: ‘Ye merry butchers have challenged ye jolly bakers to a game of ye old English cricket, in costume’ which attracted not ‘less than a thousand spectators, and there was much cordiality and fun and genial banter’. Accompanied by St Peter’s Hewson memorial brass band, everyone met at the Crown Inn

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THE

MAGAZINE B2B DIRECTORY

O

ur new B2B directory is designed to help local business owners get the message about their services and products out to other business owners. With more people than ever working at home, it’s a great way to get in touch with other business owners...

Not only are they just around the corner if we need help, or have to pick something up, but with few networking groups running virtually during this lockdown, it’s a great way to make contact with like-minded people while so many of us are working from home.

Shopping local has kept our favourite shops and eateries in and around Tring and Berkhamsted afloat over the past year.

We have invited our favourite B2B providers to make contact through our B2B Directory. We’d love to make this bigger as time goes on. If you would like to be included in the next edition, please email us at info@livingmags.info

When Dee Fagg of 3DVA happened to mention that she, and no doubt many other businesses, was really missing the leads and referrals generated by business networking, we put our heads together to come up with a solution.

Now so many of us are working from home and some running companies from our home offices or kitchen tables, it makes sense that we try to shop local for our business needs as well.

Here at Living Magazines we thought that we were all missing a trick - of course we should be using our neighbouring businesses to help us with the products and services we need to keep our businesses running smoothly.

So read on to find the best service and product providers for all your business needs - right here on your doorstep!

It is really important that businesses understand where their enquiries have come from. If you contact a company advertising or mentioned in this magazine, please mention our name. It’s just a little thing, but a really important one.

Berkhamsted is Open for Business 3DVA

ActionCOACH West Hertfordshire

Business & Professional Services

Business Coaching Practice

Present your business in a consistent professional way with a range of bespoke documents, helping you to look good & save time. Reports, slides, processes, user guides, data tables & graphs, fillable forms, infographics & memes, created for you.

We pride ourselves on being Hertfordshire’s Complete Business Coaching Practice. Our coaches are experts in doing whatever it takes to make the life of an SME easier & more effective. Our coaches will help you to add insight into your business no matter its size.

Suite 8, George House, High Street, Tring, Herts HP23 4AF | 07549 900447 | hello@3dva.co.uk | www.3dva.co.uk

68 High Street, Tring, Herts HP23 4AG | 01442 773310 | westherts@actioncoach.co.uk | www.westherts.actioncoach.co.uk

Alison Page Marketing

Chuffed Productions

Marketing Agency

Video Production

Looking for marketing assistance to help your business grow? We are a team of experienced professionals who provide bespoke strategic marketing services, combined with sound business sense, to SME’s in Herts, Bucks & Beds.

Helping brands & businesses produce high quality, engaging video content, delivered on time & on budget.

Testimonial, Case Study, Brand, Product, Training & Instructional Videos. Animated Explainers & Live Streaming.

4 Jubilee Gardens, Tring, Herts HP23 4JG | 07963 002065 | hello@alisonpagemarketing.co.uk | www.alisonpagemarketing.co.uk

2nd Floor, Aldbury House, Dower Mews, High Street Berhamsted, Herts HP4 2BL | 01442 601709 | hello@chuffed.video | www.chuffed.video

DENS

GS2 Design

Charity

Graphic Designers

DENS support people in Dacorum facing homelessness, poverty & social exclusion. Refer to the next page for details of the DENS Business Partnership programme & become part of our legacy.

An ideas led, full service graphic design agency creating…impactful graphics, strategic print & digital marketing, websites that attract & perform, branding, packaging, signage, display & more…

The Hub, Paradise, Hemel Hempstead, Herts HP2 4TF 01442 800268 | fundraising@dens.org.uk | www.dens.org.uk

George House, 64 High Street, Tring, Herts HP23 4AF 01442 827727 | hello@GS2Design.co.uk | www.gs2design.co.uk

HJP Chartered Accountants

Lloyd Donnelly Solicitors Limited

Chartered Accountants

Solicitors

Helping Ambitious Business Owners Scale & Grow.

Business Mentoring • Tax Planning • Accounts Compliance • Payroll & Bookkeeping • Xero Gold Partners • Experts in Tax, Business & People.

At HJP Everybody Counts.

Local friendly law firm specialising in employment law, consumer affairs & contracts. We can advise on all aspects of employment law inc Employment Tribunal claims for disputes relating to unfair dismissal, contracts, discrimination, whistleblowing, holidays & redundancy.

Audley House, Northbridge Road, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 1EH | 01442 872878 | angela@hjpchartered.com | www.hjpchartered.com

64-66 Akeman Street, Tring, Herts HP23 6AF | 01442 915260 | info@lloyddonnelly.co.uk | www.lloyddonnelly.co.uk

Matz Skoog Coaching

Naomi MacKay, Creative Copywriter

Performance Coaching

Copywriting, Social Media & Editing

Former dancer & Artistic Director, performance coach for ambitious professionals looking for clarity, confidence & courage for decisive actions in business & in life; helping you go further than you thought possible.

Creative copy for all business communication. Great copy tells a story – let me tell your business story, whether that’s on your website, in blogs, social media, or brochures. I can also refresh & revitalise your existing web copy & other marketing materials.

New Kingswood Cottage, Swan Lane, The Lee , Bucks HP16 9NU | 07833 335038 | matz.skoog@gmail.com www.matzskoog.com

17 Mill Road, Slapton, Beds LU7 9BT 07802 426594 | naomimackay@gmail.com | www.naomimackay.co.uk

SR Consulting

Stringer Mann Chartered Financial Planners

Business Advice

Chartered Financial Planners

Practical advice for ambitious, time poor business owners. Help in 3 ways: • Support to gain clarity on your business plan • Delivery of a ‘grown up’ tool kit to guide your day to day • Advice on how to make the most of your time & pin down your priorities.

We provide a wide range of wealth management services in both the private & corporate financial services sectors, allowing us to provide specialised advice & guidance to our valued clients.

c/o Haines Watts, Milton House, Gatehouse Road, Gatehouse Industrial Area, Aylesbury HP19 8EA 01296 340404 | jonathan@sr-consult.co.uk | www.sr-consult.co.uk

Travel Impressions of Tring

236a High Street, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 1AG 01442 874888 | stringermann@sjpp.co.uk | www.stringermann.com

THE

Travel Agent (Independent) An independent travel agent located behind Costa Coffee on Tring High St. We can help with booking holidays & cruises worldwide as well as closer to home.

We offer a friendly, personal service & use only fully bonded companies.

Suite 4, George House, 64 High Street, Tring HP23 4AF 01442 890265 | enquiries@travelimpressions.co.uk | www.travelimpressions.co.uk

MAGAZINE B2B DIRECTORY

Become part of our legacy!

Join our Business Partnership today and work with us to increase our positive impact in the community and together, we can help rebuild more lives.

There are tangible rewards too: • An exclusive DENS Business Partner Logo to display on your website

By providing a regular financial commitment, you can help us plan for the future, knowing that this provides a reliable, steady income throughout the year.

• Official DENS Certificate to display on your premises

By partnering with us, you can display your commitment to our cause and create positive publicity and PR for your organisation.

• Priority CSR Corporate Volunteering opportunities at our services

Please set up a monthly donation today and you and your business can become part of our legacy.

• Pride in the knowledge that your organisation is creating social impact and making a positive contribution in your community

• Visibility and recognition on our website and click-through to your website

• DENS presentation to staff

Membership No. of Employees

Monthly Donation

1-3

4-10

11-50

51-100

£15

£25

£50

£75

101-150

151+

£100 £150

For more information, please email business@dens.org.uk or call 01442 800268 Your support is greatly appreciated Thank you.

www.@dens.org.uk Registered charity number: 1097185

BOOKS

The latest books from our local and regional authors

Catherine Alliott, queen of romantic comedy

As bestseller and Tring author Catherine releases her 16th novel, Behind Closed

the queen ofDoors, Living caught up with her to talk about her favourite places around the area Catherine Alliott

Catherine’s latest novel, Behind Closed Doors, is set in Oxfordshire, when her heroine moves in with her elderly parents after being unexpectedly widowed. But she says, ‘I’ve kept the area vague. It’s in the Chilterns and about half an hour from Thame - which we are here! I purposely keep my locations vague otherwise people call up and tell you that your character couldn’t possibly have caught a bus from here or there because the bus service stopped three years ago. It’s so lovely here why wouldn’t I set my novels around the Chilterns - and setting them somewhere I didn’t know would take such a lot of time to research!’

t know where to turn.

Favourite walk: ‘We live right next to the Ridgeway. It’s beautiful, we are near Ashridge so walk along there and towards Pitstone Hill and down onto the Downs.’ returns home. Her parents' Favourite restaurant: ‘On special occasions The King’s Head in Ivinghoe. We still mourn the loss of fe throws her in the path of an decades.

The Regal Chinese restaurant in Berkhamsted.’ (Ed’s note – so do we all!) ask questions.

Favourite Takeaway: ‘We’ve just discovered a wonderful Indian restaurant called Papad, in Chesham.’ ething far worse behind ...

On Tring High Street: ‘I love the hardware shop Metcalfes. It has a lovely, old-fashioned feel, as you enched in Catherine’s collect picture hooks or whatever and place them in a paper bag! I like the Market House for things seph’s lead Mother’s Day such as linen napkins and milk jugs and Almars is very good too.’ all, second chances.

Favourite place for coffee: ‘I meet my friend in Waitrose in Berkhamsted and when we have filled our - Marian Keyes trolleys we have our coffee there and sit and chat. You feel like you’ve done something useful, not just phie Kinsella had coffee!’ mes • Win a copy of Catherine’s latest novel! See page 45 for details.

Mail

Telegraph

hless’ - Red romance’ - Time Out

cluding About Last Night, My cret Life of Evie Hamilton, and in Hertfordshire.

adharajan 62 | @sriya__v

Die in the Dark

by Dave Sivers, Ivinghoe A vicious homophobic attack sees the start of a new investigation for Aylesbury Vale detectives Lizzie Archer and Dan Baines.

Dave is a founder of the annual BeaconLit festival of books and writing.

Your Kids are Boring

By Tom James, Berkhamsted A wry, light-hearted look at modern parents’ obsession with their children.

Tom also wrote Fifty Shades of Gravy: The Cookbook, and the comedy podcast I am Idiot.

Prince of Dragons - Book one of the Ashridge Adventures

By Pam Howard, Little Gaddesden Thrilling fantasy adventure set in Ashridge Forest. The book’s castle is based loosely on Ashridge House. For ages nine and over.

Pam lives in Little Gaddesden and was inspired by walks in Ashridge Estate. She says: ‘It’s a truly magical place and if I close my eyes I can imagine elves flitting through the trees and dragons flying high above.’

Local authors! Let us know about your book releases. Email editorial@livingmags.info

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Olivia, 20, a student from Berkhamsted, has moved to a remote Scottish island - the Isle of Cumbrae with boyfriend Harry.

Read the full story at www.livingmags. info/island-living.

LOVE YOUR GARDEN BUT NOT GARDENING? Knowledgeable female gardeners offering garden care and advice at affordable prices Call Lisa on 07707 377925 or email hello@eden-gardencare.com

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EAT! GOOD ENOUGH TO

Did you dabble with growing your own fruit and veg during last year’s lockdown? Take it to the next level this year with some edible ornamentals and new varieties…

Gareth Richards, editor of the RHS Grow Your Own newsletter, offers his top tips...

1. Sow salad plants like lettuces and radishes regularly in small quantities, to ensure a steady supply of harvests.

2. Club together with friends and neighbours to swap seeds.

3. Remember to feed crops in pots with liquid plant food for better harvests.

4. Try growing strawberries in growbags for a decent crop from a small space.

5. Don’t be tempted to sow seeds of outdoor crops too early. Tender but quick-growing things like courgettes, sweetcorn and runner beans need to be sown late April at the earliest.

Find out about the RHS GYO newsletter at rhs.org.uk/gyo

32 / Berkhamsted Living

I

t’s incredibly satisfying to grow your own, with whatever space you have. All kinds of veg can be cultivated in containers, and micro salads and herbs can also thrive in a spot on a sunny kitchen window, so you don’t even have to have any outside space!

Sunnyside Rural Trust’s* Matt Felix and Catherine Jones have this great advice to get you started: ‘The easiest are types of root veg, where some tubers can be saved back and replanted for the next year’s crop, and almost forgotten about for the growing season. These include plants such as potatoes, Jerusalem artichokes and ocra, a special South American root vegetable that grows well in UK summers. Many have beautiful flowers and foliage to admire before your harvest and have a lot of nutrients in them too.

‘The most important rule of growing your own food is to only grow what you like to eat! It seems

www.livingmags.info

“

“

GARDENS

The most important rule of growing your own food is to only grow what you like to eat! simple but it’s easy to plant so many things that you may end up not eating. Select your top five favourite veggies and stick to them as a starting point.’

Plan your seed sowing It’s easy to go mad, and sow a whole pack of carrot seeds at once - but the problem is that you will have a whole patch of carrots ready at the same time. Sow every couple of weeks and you’ll have a continuous supply. And remember, carrots come in all kinds of colours - which may tempt young picky eaters. ‘Cosmic Purple’ has purple skin and is light orange inside, or look for a seed selection that also includes yellow and white carrots - Thompson & Morgan’s Carrot ‘Sweet Imperator Mix’ for example. Salad leaves are probably one of the easiest things to grow - and you’ll save a packet if you usually buy bags of leaves from the supermarket! Just remember to sow regularly.

Where to grow?

If you have plenty of space in your garden, you can have a proper veg patch. Divide into beds, using sleepers or proprietary raised bed kits - and make sure you leave enough space for you to sow, tend to, weed, and harvest without stepping on surrounding plants.

Raised beds are great, especially if you have a bad back or other mobility issues. And because the beds are filled with fresh compost you don’t have so many issues with weeds and stones.

White butterflies away from cabbages and broccoli - and you can use the petals in salads.

Other good looking, and edible plants include: Kale ‘Jardin Mixed’ - vegetable plant of the year 2020, this pretty brassica will surprise you with frilly leaves ranging in colour from purple to green and white.

Bronze fennel (Foeniculum vulgare ‘Purpureum’) has fern-like foliage and yellow flowers.

Globe Artichoke - majestic thistle-like plants with wonderful purple flowers and silvery green leaves.

Chard - a reliable and useful crop. Choose the multicoloured stems of ‘Bright Lights’ for maximum good looks.

Peas - choose the variety ‘Blauwschokker’ for its pretty lilac and purple flowers and deep purple peapods.

Chives - easy to grow, the pink-purple flowers brighten up a dull corner - use them to make onion fragranced, pretty pink chive vinegar.

Note: Correct identification of edible flowers is essential - see https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/ profile?PID=764 for advice. * Sunnyside Rural Trust is a charity and social enterprise offering training and work experience for vulnerable people.

They grow fresh veg that is sold in their shops either fresh, or in jams and chutneys. Most of the 30-plus types of vegetables, plus soft fruit and herbs are grown on the Northchurch site.

They also run a veg box scheme from April to December. Find out more at www.sunnysideruraltrust.org.uk

Edible ornamentals Your veg plot can look pretty and be functional.

Grow French marigolds around beans, sweetcorn and tomatoes to keep aphids away.

Multicoloured nasturtiums will lure Cabbage

Chives

Spring 2021 / 33

WENDOVER WOODS AND BACK

WALKS AROUND TOWN

We’re lucky to have some great halfday and full-day circular walks taking in stretches of The Ridgeway on our doorstep. The one we have chosen for this issue is from the Chilterns Country Views of the Vale collection.

Points of Interest

The 7-mile circular Walk to Wendover Woods and back follows part of The Ridgeway National Trail. The Woods have wonderful displays of bluebells in late April and early May. There is also a cafe at the main car park, a children’s playground and an ancient hillfort, now rather overgrown. The café is currently open for takeaways.

Start point: Wendover Railway Station, Grid Reference: SP849067 Distance: 7 miles, allow 3½ to 4 hours.

Accessibility: Uphill for about 2 miles.

There are no stiles or kissing gates on this route. About a mile of the section from Wendover to The Hale is considerably uphill. There is an All Ability Trail suitable for wheelchairs near Wendover Woods main car park.

1. Leave Wendover railway station by the road and turn left past the Shoulder of Mutton pub. Continue along Wendover High Street past the shops. Cross the road at the pedestrian crossing and continue down the High Street.

2. Just after the last shop turn right onto a footpath (signposted Ridgeway), which passes through a park alongside a stream – continue to follow Ridgeway signs.

3. Go straight on, following The Ridgeway National Trail signs (which are waymarked with an acorn symbol) past the lake and church and along the road. At the crossroads go straight across, up Hogtrough Lane. Continue to follow The Ridgeway, which forks left after Boswell’s Farm into woodland. Follow this forest trail for over one mile gently uphill.

You will eventually cross Hale Road and enter Wendover Woods.

TO DOWNLOAD A MAP OF THE WALK, VISIT WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/TYPE/WALKS 34 / Berkhamsted Living

www.livingmags.info

4. The Ridgeway drops down (via steps) to meet a bridleway in a sunken lane. Turn 90 degrees left here (leaving the Ridgeway) and after some 40 metres take a public footpath to the right. Follow this well waymarked path uphill through the wood until it meets a wider stony track. Turn right along this track and follow it, climbing gently. At a fork of tracks take the right (upper) one, which brings you to the Wendover Woods main car park.

5. Follow the tarmac road to the left (the café is ahead of you where you meet the road) and turn left to follow a wide track for ½ mile, which passes picnic areas with barbecues.

Keep straight on at a sign for Boddington Bank viewpoint. After 300 metres there is a piece of fitness equipment (part of the fitness trail): do not turn left here – go straight on

and follow the track downhill. You will eventually meet another track, turn right and join this track, continuing downhill.

Then carry straight on until you reach the road at the bottom.

6. Turn right and follow the road back to Wendover (please take care if walking on the road). At the junction turn right and after 50m take the path between houses on your left. This brings you back to the park at the start of the walk. Follow the stream and then on to the Heron Path to come out on the High Street by the Clock Tower. Turn left and walk back up the High Street to the rail station.

Thank you to the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for supplying this walk.

You can find out more on the website at www.chilternsaonb.org.

Advertise in Tring and Berkhamsted Living Magazines and your business will be delivered by the Royal Mail to almost 22,000 homes and businesses in the area. We are the only magazine delivering to every postcode in HP4 and HP23.

It couldn’t be easier! Email advertising@livingmags.info or visit www.livingmags.info/advertise.

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Contact: advertising@livingmags.info or telephone 01442 824300

SPRING INTO HEALTHY HABITS!

Spring is a great time to begin your new road to a healthier lifestyle - we’ve compiled some simple ideas that should get you feeling fitter and looking good in no time…

H

ands up who has stuck to their New Year’s resolutions? No, us neither!

January is not the best time to start a new healthier lifestyle. It’s cold, the days are short and have we mentioned lockdown 3.0?

But never fear, spring is a much better time to get started on some healthy habits. According to scientists it takes 66 days to form a habit, so try these easy ideas and they’ll be part of your lifestyle before summer rolls round…

Get a breath of fresh air: ‘My healthy habit over the past few months is my daily lunchtime walk,’ says Claire Foster, community partnerships and wellbeing officer for physical activity and sport at Dacorum Borough Council.

‘Whatever the weather I take this opportunity to get away from my laptop and get some fresh air!

If you want to set yourself a challenge there are lots of virtual events, including Dacorum’s Your Town 5k event run later in the year, that you can work towards.’

36 / Berkhamsted Living

Meditate: ‘Find time every morning to meditate, even if it is just five minutes,’ says Hollie, senior therapist, at Cecily Day Spa in Berkhamsted. ‘This will give you the perfect time to check in with yourself and listen to what your mind/body needs’ If you struggle with the concept of meditation, just sit still for five minutes with your feet flat on the floor, shut your eyes, and breathe.

Get some balance: ‘Grab a chair and sit up straight, holding your core in,’ says Heather Harris, coach at Berkhamsted’s Jog On. ‘Lift one leg out straight in front of you, foot flexed and then lift it higher, slowly 10 times. Swap legs. Repeat this set three times (30 on each leg). Progress by doing the whole exercise standing up holding onto a wall then, as your confidence improves you can step away from the wall and again repeat the leg lifts.

This simple exercise will improve strength and balance.’

www.livingmags.info

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

“

It’s easy to get involved in a Netflix bingewatch or scroll through Facebook before bedtime, but the blue light is not conducive to a good night’s sleep. Leave the TV downstairs and invest in an alarm clock so you can leave your phone elsewhere too!

“

Ditch the screens: It’s easy to get involved in a Netflix bingewatch or scroll through Facebook before bedtime, but the blue light is not conducive to a good night’s sleep. Leave the TV downstairs and invest in an alarm clock so you can leave your phone elsewhere too!

Multitask: ‘Create a new healthy habit based around some activity that’s already part of your daily routine,’ says Karin Voller, event director at Tring-based Run the Wild. ‘Combine brushing your teeth with some balance work (stand on one foot for half the time and then the other), or squats, or perhaps lunges. When you go to the shops, could you walk and carry your shopping home in a backpack? Rather than driving to the local postbox, try walking to one.’

activities such as singing, dancing, music, arts and crafts activities are a great way to improve your mental wellbeing. You can find lots of online creative events and activities by visiting www.creativehertfordshire.com’ Stretch it out: ‘I’m making it a habit this year to start each day with a few yoga stretches before I hit my desk with a large mug of tea in hand,’ says Berkhamsted’s Cecily Day Spa manager Nikki. ‘Beginning my day with a good stretch is a wonderful way of softening some of the kinks we get from sleeping and gets the blood flowing – providing the perfect energy boost to face the day.’

Stock up the freezer: ‘Frozen fruit and vegetables tend to be cheaper than fresh, and don’t compromise on nutritional benefits as the freezing process can preserve nutrients,’ says Karen Lem, director of Hastoe-based Vivo Fitness. ‘Frozen produce is often prepared and pre-cut, saving you time, and is easy to cook or defrost and add to smoothies, cereals, soups and stews.’

Check your posture: With many of us working from home at kitchen tables and on unsuitable chairs, make a note to correct your posture as you sit or walk. Your back will thank you for it.

Dance like no one’s watching: ‘I love dancing to all kinds of music, even in my kitchen or front room,’ says Annie Smith, community partnerships and wellbeing officer for Arts and Culture at Dacorum Borough Council. ‘I recommend putting on some music you like and moving to it in any way you feel! Creative

Run the Wild

Spring 2021 / 37

Advertise in Tring and Berkhamsted Living Magazines and your business will be delivered by the Royal Mail to almost 22,000 homes and businesses in the area. We are the only magazine delivering to every postcode in HP4 and HP23. It couldn’t be easier!

Email advertising@livingmags.info or visit www.livingmags.info/advertise.

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TRING

Contact: advertising@livingmags.info or telephone 01442 824300

PILATES

STUDIO

Fully equipped Pilates Studio based in the centre of Tring.

Highly qualified instructors have first-hand experience of how Pilates can help with: Comprehensive course suitable for all ages and fitness levels developed by the experts at Nordic Walking UK and delivered by qualified instructors.

JOIN US ON A GREAT CHOICE OF FITNESS WALKS AND ONLINE CLASSES FOR ALL LEVELS AND AGE GROUPS Vivo Fitness and Walxridgeway 07766366388 www.vivo-shapehealthlife.co.uk www.walxridgeway.co.uk

• • • • •

Posture correction Dance Pain management Rehabilitation Pre and Post-natal

• Extreme Sports • Increased functionality

• General Fitness

The Instructor to client ratio is 1:3 1:1 sessions available Mat classes.

01442 890214 studio@tringpilates.co.uk www.tringpilates.co.uk

Tring Pilates Studio 66-68 Akeman Street Tring HP23 6AF

LOCKERS PARK “Lockers Park prepares boys for success in the modern world.”

Tatler Schools Guide

VIRTUAL OPEN MORNING - SATURDAY 8 MAY Book your space at lockerspark.herts.sch.uk/openday

Academic focus | Small class sizes | Free wraparound care Pre-Preparatory and Preparatory School for boys aged 4-13 years Boxmoor, Hemel Hempstead 01442 251712

Online Classical Guitar Lessons with Don Adam Perera

Beginner - advanced • All ages welcome Professional and experienced classical guitarist with BMus and MMus. £20 per half hour

Please text: 0789 456 2150 or email: donadamperera@gmail.com

Rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas, ISI Report 2020 ‘Outstanding’ Nursery for girls and boys “Dedication is not in doubt” – Good Schools Guide

Join the school virtually at an Open Event:

abbotshill.org.uk Whole School Virtual Open Day - Saturday 6 March, 10.00am Prep School Virtual Open Day - Friday 12 March, 9.30am

Independent Day School for girls 4-16 years, Day Nursery & Pre-School for girls & boys from 6 months Bunkers Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 8RP Email: enquiries@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

ENCOURAGING

INDEPENDENCE

Y

ou may be nervous when your teen starts going out without you (Covid regulations permitting), but provide them with the right tools to stay safe and you won’t worry quite so much!

Tanith Carey, author of What’s My Teenager Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents* explains: ‘As your child hits adolescence they want more control over their social life.

This is part of the necessary and expected separation away from adults, to find their own tribe. Be warned that the age of 14 is when the Fear of Missing Out on social activities peaks.

Rather than thwart social plans - or trying to wrap your child in cotton wool - it’s better to work with our teens on ways they can learn to stay safe.’

40 / Berkhamsted Living

It can be scary when your young teen starts going out with their friends, but these tips will help them stay safe and help you calm your nerves!

Tanith’s stay safe tips: • Get them used to making short easy trips with friends to the park or running errands.

• Young teens are not aware of how difficult it is for drivers to see them if they cross the road without looking. When you are in the car with them, help them see the driver’s point of view on pedestrians.

• Teens can feel invincible. This means they can take dangerous risks when crossing roads. Be a good role model by crossing roads at designated safe crossing points. Also explain why they must always take their earbuds out when they cross the road - accidents among this age group have soared sharply in recent years for this reason.

• Children are now more likely to be targeted by muggers because they carry more electronics and phones. Talk about

www.livingmags.info

KIDS

•

•

•

•

“

Teens can feel invincible.

This means they can take dangerous risks when crossing roads. Be a good role model by crossing roads at designated safe crossing points

“

•

prevention, staying aware of people around them, keeping electronics out of sight and how pickpockets often use drama and distractions. Talk about why it’s more important to give up their phones or purse than risk serious injury, and assure them you will not be angry with them.

Talk to your teen about the importance of sticking together when they are out, and acting as lookouts for one another.

If they are coming home later for some reason, such as an after-school activity, they should sit in a carriage with other people or behind the driver if they travel by bus.

Update your chats about stranger danger.

Adolescent girls can often be targets. Tell her no one has the right to make her feel uncomfortable or be treated as a sex object to be stared at. Tell her how to stay safe by avoiding empty carriages or platforms and tell her if she is being followed that she is not causing a fuss or being impolite if she asks transport staff for help.

If your teen thinks they are being followed, tell them to cross the road, abruptly change direction, or go into a shop or ring the doorbell of a house until the threat passes. If your teen is being followed in a car, or is asked to get inside, tell them to create as much distance as possible, as quickly as possible and not to be afraid to shout for help.

Explain that a condition of your adolescent having a phone is that they leave the house with it charged and keep it on when they are out so you can get hold of them if needs be.

We asked local parents for their advice: ‘We have a code word/code question. So if she’s out with friends and isn’t comfortable (wants to leave) she texts us this. The plan is we then ring and say she’s got to come home – which gives her an excuse - and/or we meet her.’

‘Use the app what3words which has a share location option and can pinpoint with great accuracy your whereabouts.’

‘I use an App called Life360. I can always see where my daughter is and how to find her.’

‘Always go out with a power bank to charge their phone.’

‘Let them go out a bit hungry, teenagers and food go hand in hand so it means they’re never too long or too far away!’

‘Always take a bank card so parents can transfer money if needed.’

* What’s My Teenager Thinking?

Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin, published by DK.

Spring 2021 / 41

GET ON THE PROPERTY

LADDER It might be harder than ever to buy your first home these days, but it is possible. Here’s how...

Remember the rules One of the first mistakes people make when trying to work out how much they can borrow is that they forget about ‘affordability’ – but the banks don’t.

So while you might think that, because you can afford £1,200 a month in rent, that the banks will easily lend you that much, sadly you’re likely to be wrong.

There are three main rules to remember, explains David.

‘First, remember that for most average earners the bank’s loan-to-income ratio will never be more than five times your salary,’ he says.

‘Depending on your circumstances and the

42 / Berkhamsted Living

“

…banks will consider more factors than just your salary when trying to work out affordability. They will take into account the cost of living…

“

A

t the end of 2020, the average house price had reached an all-time high, but if you’re trying to get your first steps onto the property ladder, don’t despair. There are still ways you can do it.

We find out more from mortgage adviser David Milbourn from Stringer Mann Chartered Financial Planners in Berkhamsted.

bank, it could be less.’ For example, you’re more likely to be offered a loan that’s four times your salary if you’re a first-time buyer with a low deposit of between five and 10 per cent.

Second, banks will consider more factors than just your salary when trying to work out affordability. ‘They will take into account the cost of living, and any unsecured loans you may have,’ explains David. ‘They will also make sure you would be able to pay that amount back if interest rates rose to 7 per cent.

‘Third, they look at how sustainable your income is. So if you’re self employed or do contract work, they will decide whether they

www.livingmags.info

PROPERTY

“

The Help to Buy scheme is basically a government loan of 20 per cent of the property price (40 per cent in London) on new-build homes only, which is interest-free for the first five years. If you then pay it back you’ll never pay interest on it; although you will still owe 20 per cent of the future value…

“

think your current income is sustainable, and either take into account an average for the previous three years or the most recent annual income.’ Commissions and overtime are also likely to be averaged and often must be supported with a P60 showing consistency of earnings.

But there are other ways to buy:

Help to Buy Equity This is a great option for first-time buyers who might have a decent income, yet have no substantial deposit.

If you are earning decent money, but paying high rent, you may not have had the chance to save a big deposit. This scheme could help.

The Help to Buy scheme is basically a government loan of 20 per cent of the property price (40 per cent in London) on new-build homes only, which is interest-free for the first five years. If you then pay it back you’ll never pay interest on it; although you will still owe 20 per cent of the future value, otherwise you will pay interest on it for the next 20 years until it must be repaid in full.

‘This could be the difference between being able to afford to buy your own home and not,’ says David.

Shared Ownership ‘This can be a great option for low or single income families,’ says David.

You can choose to buy a percentage of the property, while a housing association owns the rest and you pay them rent. You can choose to increase your percentage as and when your income rises. This can sometimes also be on a new property; a house builder will build a new development and the housing association will buy a percentage of those properties to offer as shared ownership properties.

‘Some people don’t like the idea of this as it means you’re still paying rent. But this is a great solution because it means you’ve made the first step onto the ladder. It means you can buy a much nicer house than you would be able to afford without this scheme, and you’re also able to ‘staircase’ the amount you own – in other words, if your income goes up, you can choose to buy a larger percentage of the property, usually up to 75 per cent.’

As the price of the property goes up, so does the value of the percentage you own. It also enables people to have stability rather than the uncertainty of renting.

• Stringer Mann can offer a wide range of mortgages from across the market.

Visit www.stringermann.com to find out more.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Spring 2021 / 43

High quality bespoke made to measure furniture

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■

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Dressing rooms... and much more

Complete Fitted Bedrooms, established in 1987 by Richard Phillips, is a family business supplying high quality bespoke made to measure furniture. We pride ourselves in working directly with our customers in the design process so that each unit is tailored to the customers’ needs and maximises the living space.

Berkhamsted Office 354 High Street Berkhamsted Herts HP4 1HU 01442 777111

Amersham Office Sycamore Place Hill Avenue Amersham HP6 5BG 01494 434363

email: sales@completefittedbedrooms.com

www.completefittedbedrooms.com

LOCAL PLACES CROSSWORD ANSWERS TO ‘LOCAL’ CLUES ARE ALL CLOSE TO BERKHAMSTED AND TRING Across Down 8 Setting half-mile leads instead (6) 1 Local colour of prince, reportedly (8) 9 Local donating topless gardener’s tool (8) 2 Miles and I take luxury car or replica (6) 10 A quiet hilltop local (8) 3 Plain kernel of hard nuts turned over (6) 11 Calm saint wears old hat (6) 4 Absorbs summaries (7) 12 Intimidate and harshly criticise local (3,5) 5 Local fruit centres (8) 13 No diversity of colour (6) 6 Simple worker supports endless neglect (8) 14 Local with energy line gradient (3,4) 7 Pig has least ability to come back (6) 17 Merciless villain holds back support at 15 Weird hag troubles local (8) summit (7) 16 Ruined cathedral seen by new local (3,5) The newwas novel 20 Scan peaks to the east (6) 18 warm-hearted Local assembly room tornfrom apartthe at queen of comedy and No 1 bestseller, Catherine Alliott 22 Local soldiers take first train further (8) romanticfirst (8) 25 Less attractive fabrication in wayward 19 Limbless monkey ate me up (7) wig (6) 21 Force breaks enthusiastic return of Behind Closed Doors 26 Discovers a hunter’s collection (8) Jamaican beat (6) 27 Infection team joins Frenchman (8) 23 Even unfit teachers have relations (6) Catherine Alliott 28 Still regularly play on the level (6) 24 Target last produce at town bazaar (6) 4th March | HB/A | 9780241384718 Penguin Michael Joseph | £12.99 #BehindClosedDoors

COMPETITION

WIN A COPY OF CATHERINE ALLIOTT’S But she gets much more than she bargained for when she returnsNOVEL! home. Her parents' LATEST When Lucy is unexpectedly widowed, she doesn't know where to turn.

She seeks refuge with her elderly parents in Oxfordshire, hoping for an escape from past memories - and from her overbearing sister-in-law. bungalow is falling apart, and their surprisingly busy social life throws her in the path of an old childhood friend she hasn't seen for decades. e have three copies of local

W

author Catherine Alliott’s book - Behind Closed Doors to give away!

Is she running away from her grief? Or did she leave something far worse behind . . .

Yet as Lucy begins to move on, others start to ask questions.

Witty, poignant, at times heartwrenching, andhave drenched inbe Catherine’s All you to do to in with a characteristic warmth and humour, this ischance Michael lead Mother’s Day toJoseph’s win is answer the title – a story about love, loss, family, and above all, second chances.

following question at www.

livingmags.info/competitions: Praise for Catherine Alliott: ‘Her writing is both intelligent and sparkling’ - Marian Keyes

Who wrote the Hound of the

‘A huge treat. Hilarious yet poignant’ - Sophie Kinsella Baskervilles?

‘Compulsively readable’ - The Times

Terms and conditions apply, visit website for details. Winners will be ‘Hilarious and full of surprises’ - Daily Telegraph chosen at random.

Closing date Friday 23 April 2021.

‘Classy, wonderfully gossipy and breathless’ - Red ‘Warm, witty and wise’ - Daily Mail

‘An addictive cocktail of wit, frivolity and madcap romance’ - Time Out

Crossword Answers - Across: 8 Milieu. 9 Ivinghoe. 10 Ashridge. 11 Stolid. 12 Cow Roast. 13 Orange. 14 Ley Hill. 17 Meeting.

20 Browse. 22 Mentmore. 25 Uglier. 26 Unearths. 27 Gangrene. 28 Evenly. Down: 1 Wilstone. 2 Mirror. 3 Tundra. 4 Digests.

5 Pitstone. 6 Ignorant. 7 Homing. 15 Hawridge. 16 Lye Green. 18 Northall. 19 Amputee. 21 Reggae. 23 Nieces. 24 Market.

Catherine Alliott is the author of fifteen bestselling novels including About Last Night, My Husband Next Door, A Rural Affair, One Day in May, The Secret Life of Evie Hamilton, and Wish You Were Here. She lives with her family in Hertfordshire.

WHAT’S ON WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/EVENTS

As we go to print on the magazine, we are still in lockdown 3. Please check with the organisers in advance to confirm whether their event below will be going ahead. If you would like to include your event in future magazines complete the form at: www.livingmags.info/submit-event.

WEDNESDAY 10 MARCH

Business: BDCC Networking Via Zoom 8-9.30am. www.berkhamsted-chamber. co.uk

Music: Ruisi Quartet Berkhamsted Civic Centre 7.30pm, £16. www.berkhamstedmusic .co.uk

SATURDAY 13 MARCH

WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market The Market Place on Brook Street, Tring. 9am-12.30pm.

2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

Talks: History of Allotments Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society, Wellcome Great Hall, Town Hall, Berkhamsted, 8pm. berkhamsted-history.org.uk

46 / Berkhamsted Living

THURSDAY 18 MARCH

Business: Tring BusinessMart Breakfast Via Zoom 8-9.30am. www.tringtogether.org.uk SUNDAY 21 MARCH

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. www.facebook. com/berkofm SATURDAY 3 APRIL

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Book Fair Court House, Berkhamsted, 10am-4pm. 01442 862011 Walks: Brazier & BBQ Bubbles Spring Meadow Farm, Whelpley Hill, Berkhamsted HP4 2SX. Tuesdays all day and Saturday afternoons. ‘BBQ Bubble’ and health walk across 30-acre eco-farm. www.faithworkstrust.org.uk

Business Planning Webinar

Meet like-minded business owners

Develop your 90-day business plan

Create achieveable goals

Friday 19th March 1-4PM www.westherts.actioncoach.co.uk

SATURDAY 10 APRIL

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market The Market Place on Brook Street, Tring. 9am-12.30pm.

2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

livingmags.info

TUESDAY 13 APRIL

THURSDAY 13 MAY

Business: Tring BusinessMart Breakfast Via Zoom. 8-9.30am. www.tringtogether.org.uk

Business: Tring BusinessMart Breakfast Via Zoom. 8-9.30am. www.tringtogether.org.uk

FRIDAY 16 APRIL

FRIDAY 14 MAY

Talks: A Fresh Look At Wycombe St Leonards Parish Hall, 8pm for 8.15pm. www.cholesbury.com

Talks: AGM followed by Marsworth Polish Hostel 1948-1961 Cholesbury Village Hall, 7.30pm. www.cholesbury. com

SUNDAY 18 APRIL

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. www.facebook. com/berkofm

SUNDAY 16 MAY

THURSDAY APRIL 22

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. www.facebook. com/berkofm

Music: Nine Below Zero’s Greaves & Feltham Court Theatre, Doors & Bar 19.00 Band 20.00. courttheatre.co.uk

Music: The Malone Sibun Band Court Theatre, Doors & Bar 19.00 Band 20.00. courttheatre.co.uk

THURSDAY MAY 20

SATURDAY 24 APRIL

THURSDAY MAY 27

Fairs / Festivals: Tring Spring Fayre Virtual three-week festival celebrating the outdoors.

Includes Henry Grace’s ‘Keep Tring Together Running’. www.tringtogether.org.uk

Music: Brave Rival Court Theatre, Doors & Bar 19.00 Band 20.00. courttheatre.co.uk

SATURDAY 1 MAY

Walks: Brazier & BBQ Bubbles Spring Meadow Farm, Whelpley Hill, Berkhamsted HP4 2SX. Tuesdays all day and Saturday afternoons.

‘BBQ Bubble’ and health walk across 30-acre eco-farm. www.faithworkstrust.org.uk FRIDAY MAY 7

Music: John Verity Court Theatre, Doors & Bar 19.00 Band 20.00. courttheatre.co.uk SATURDAY 15 MAY

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market The Market Place on Brook Street, Tring. 9am-12.30pm.

2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

Open for orders, collection or deliveries, as well as gift subscriptions and author events Mon-Sat 9am to 5pm Sun 11am to 1pm www.ourbookshoptring.co.uk

FRIDAY MAY 28

Music: Spikedrivers plus Tyzack & Tortora Court Theatre, Doors & Bar 19.00 Band 20.00. courttheatre.co.uk SAVE THE DATES! SATURDAY 26 JUNE

Fairs / Festivals: Tring Summer Carnival Pound Meadow, Tring www.tringtogether.org.uk WEDNESDAY 30 JUNE

Business: BDCC Networking and Social Berkhamsted Cricket Club, 5-8pm. Summer Chamber/ Networking Social Event in aid of ‘The Big Five Charities’ in Berkhamsted: Age UK Dacorum, Berkhamsted Town Hall Trust, DENS, Hospice of St Francis and Open Door. berkhamsted-chamber.co.uk

87 High Street, Tring HP23 4AB Tring 827653

LOCAL SERVICES CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

CALOR GAS & FUEL

LANDSCAPING

We stock a full range of

Logs, Coal, Calor gas, & Charcoal P E Mead & Sons Farm Shop Wilstone, Near Tring HP23 4NT

GARDENING SERVICES

01442 828478 Opening Times

Mon-Sat: 9am - 5:30pm Sunday: 9:30am - 4:30pm

www.pemeadandsons.co.uk GARDENING SERVICES

l

LOCKSMITH

Tree Care l Fencing

Contact Robert on:

07585 007109 HANDYMAN

For all carpentry and landscaping!

A friendly, reliable service from a local tradesman! Hourly rate for a small job / daily rate for larger jobs!

Call Ash Sutherland now on:

01296 662138 or 07547 483495 e: info@ahtk.co.uk

www.ahtk.co.uk

I track all our enquiries I can confirm that the Living magazine has been a great source of interested customers. Charles Ashby, Dagnall Container Storage

Your magazine is a valued contributor to the local community. Linda,

BOOKING & ADVERT NEWS ARTWORK DEADLINE DEADLINE

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OVEN CLEANING

PAINTING & DECORATING

PLUMBING/HEATING

Michael Casingena

Painter & Decorator All types of decorative work undertaken.

Excellent rates and references.

25 yrs in the trade.

Call Mike on...

01442 822684 07534 109823 michaelcasingena@hotmail.co.uk

TV AERIALS

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JB Services Plumbing and Heating Small, professional, local business carrying out all aspects of central heating, gas & plumbing work including bathrooms and emergencies.

07790 515 605 jonbasson66@yahoo.co.uk www.jbplumbandheat.co.uk

Ashley Green, Chesham, Bucks HP5 3PL

l

Bird spikes

Its working. People are coming in now that they know we are here and selling quality goods.

Singh at Village Wines in Tring

Excellent publication – love it!

Catherine INSERT DELIVERY DEADLINE

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LOCAL ESSENTIALS Need a number in a hurry?

Keep this page handy Visit our website for more essential services and telephone numbers including opticians, dental surgeries and vets for both Tring and Berkhamsted www.livingmags.info/berkhamstedessential-services

Defibrillator machines in the town

TRANSPORT

Bus

0300 123 4050 or visit www.intalink.org.uk 30/31 to Hemel Hempstead via Ashridge, the Gaddesdens and Potten End (not Sun) 354 to Northchurch (not Sun) 354 to Chesham (not Sun) 500/501 to Aylesbury via Tring 500/501 to Watford via Hemel Hempstead

centre can be found by The Civic Centre, 161 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 3HD. For a full list of defibrillators in the east of England, visit our website using the above link.

502/532 to Northchurch via Sportspace (not Sun)

HEALTH

This service provides older or disabled people who have difficulties in using public transport safe, reliable and accessible transport to a local supermarket. 01442 253935 or visit www. communityactiondacorum.org/door-to-store.

Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday morning of each month to Waitrose, Berkhamsted.

Hemel Hempstead Hospital & Urgent Care Centre (Open 24/7) Hillfield Road, Hemel Hempstead HP2 4AD. 01442 213141 Late Night Pharmacy Open until 10.30pm 7 days a week 172 Tring Road, Bedgrove, Aylesbury HP20 1JR. 01296 432 696

ADDITIONAL USEFUL NUMBERS Police Emergency 999 Police Non-Emergency 101 NHS Medical Advice Line 111 Samaritans Call free from any phone on 116 123 Child Line For free and confidential help for young people: 0800 1111

502/532 to Hemel Hempstead via Potten End

Community Action

Train

London Northwestern Railway 0333 3110039 or visit www.londonnorthwesternrailway.co.uk to download the operator’s app To London Euston via Hemel Hempstead and Watford Junction To Northampton via Leighton Buzzard and Milton Keynes Southern Railway 0345 1272920 or 0208 1850778 from a mobile, or visit www.southernrailway.com To Milton Keynes via Leighton Buzzard To South Croydon via Watford, Olympia and Clapham Junction

50 / Berkhamsted Living

With over 20 years experience in the industry we aim to provide a professional, efficient and reliable scaffolding service to all of our customers. Our team of fully qualified CITB registered scaffolders pride ourselves on our first-class customer service.

We also have an outstanding Health and Safety record, are fully compliant with current Health and Safety regulations and hold £10million public liability insurance.

Contact us for a free competitive quotation today: 01442 872670 / 07833 666861 www.aaronscaffolding.com

Offering the latest in digital technology, Bow House Dental is a state-of-the-art practice providing: Smile Makeovers

Dental Implants

Composite Bonding White Filings

Invisalign® Clear Braces

Cosmetic Dentistry

Facial Aesthetics

Tooth Whitening

Hygiene Services

General Dentistry

BERKHAMSTED 128 High Street | Berkhamsted Hertfordshire | HP4 3AT

TRING 75 Western Road | Tring Hertfordshire | HP23 4BH

01442 878 424

01442 890 384

info@bowhousedental.co.uk | www.bowhousedental.co.uk Follow us on Instagram

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