Tring Living Magazine - Autumn 2020 by Magazine

g n i v i L

ISSUE 53

TRING

AUTUMN 2020

YOUR QUALITY LOCAL MAGAZINE

SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES SINCE 2007

WELCOME BACK! Autumn what’s on guide

Make the most of your space indoors and out with design, Feng Shui, ergonomics and more

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME TRING’S QUALITY QUARTERLY MAGAZINE. DELIVERED BY TO 10,572 HOMES IN TRING & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

TRING

Welcome to the Autumn issue!

AUTUMN 2020

s we are all getting used to our ‘new normal’ we’re happy that what is still normal, is this magazine dropping through your letterbox. We may be wearing masks and keeping a social distance where appropriate, but at least we can meet you through the pages of the magazine. We hope - as we go to press - that the children will be back to school soon, many of them after an absence of several months, and school may be quite a different place. With that in mind, we have gathered together some expert advice on how to support children and teens this term. Many of us have realised we need more space, after weeks of being at home together, so we hope we can inspire you with our feature on garden rooms, and our ideas for making the most of your garden as the nights draw in.

And finally, if pounding the streets is not your idea of fun, we offer you more gentle ways to get back into exercise after the summer holidays. Things are ever-changing, so our what’s on section is a mixture of real world and online events. Do check with organisers before making a journey. Visit our website at www.livingmags.info for local daily news and event updates. And sign-up to receive our monthly newsletter at www. livingmags.info/sign-up-to-our-newsletter. We wish you happy reading.

Alison and Naomi Editor Owner &

CONTENTS 4

News and views from Tring and surrounding villages

14 Shop Local 17 Local history: The story of the Bly family

19 Butternut squash cake from Beechwood Fine Foods

22 Ease yourself into exercise

26 Stuck for space at home? How to create an extra room

34 Enjoy your garden this autumn

38 Support your kids as they go back to school

42 Be a winner in this issue’s competition

EDITO LIVINGMARGIAS.L@ INFO

44 Walk over Pitstone

Hill and through the Ashridge Estate

45 What’s On 47 The latest books from our region’s authors

48 Essential local services

The only local magazine offering shrink-wrapped guaranteed delivery to 10,572* addresses in the HP23 postcode area, by Royal Mail every quarter. *Royal Mail postcode data . Published quarterly in March, June, September & November The Team: Publisher: Alison Page / Editorial: Naomi MacKay / Photographer: Adam Hollier / 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: 7/10/20

Moving forward

iving caught up with local businesses to find out how they had fared over lockdown and what the future looked like… Tring Together says: ‘Some businesses remained open during the whole period and continued to be busy like the Tyrechangers – a mobile tyre fitting service. Beechwood, the town’s deli, moved to a delivery service and changed the café area into food and grocery space to support locals’ shopping habits during lockdown. Many other businesses and retailers offered free local deliveries and our town really stepped up to the mark. ‘What would now help is if people continued to support these retailers and businesses by shopping locally. Tring Together holds a Shop Local Day each December and we will certainly be doing something in that vein again this year. Watch this space… Over at Tring Brewery, a drive-through and delivery service has saved the day, says Jared Ward. ‘Our customers had the attitude that if they couldn’t go the pub, the pub could go to them!’ And the business has recently set up its website, so that orders can be taken online. Meanwhile, at Tring’s Fancy That gift shop, which is also continuing its delivery service, social distancing has been maintained by an ingenious invention of owner Jon Edwards. A remote-control traffic light at the door lets customers know if there is room for them to come in. His wife and co-owner Sam Edwards says: ‘We are incredibly lucky being in a town like Tring, where there is a great feeling that people want us to do well and to survive.’

4 / Tring Living

Advice for local businesses Jonathan and Pippa at SR Consulting suggest three ways in which businesses can weather the Covid storm. 1. Gain a deep understanding of your customers’ needs. Ensure you are offering the right products and services at the right time with an exceptional level of service and experience. 2. Take a step back from your business and review it warts and all. Start thinking about what you were and are doing right. Can you provide your services in a different way? Can you improve delivery times, or prioritise the customers most in need? 3. Pinpoint the core purpose of your business. A lot of businesses are thriving despite the major challenges presented. The common thread is their authentic commitment to a purpose that goes beyond profitability. www.sr-consult.co.uk

Station upgrade

f you’ve been on the train recently, you will have seen that Network Rail has completed the £5.8 million ‘Access for All’ upgrade at Tring Station, which includes new lifts, ramps and new footbridge, making the railway more accessible for people with additional mobility needs. Step-free access to all five platforms is now available for the first time. See details and pictures at www.livingmags.info.

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

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LOCAL FOCUS SEND US YOUR NEWS / TELEPHONE: 01442 824300 / EMAIL: EDITORIAL@LIVINGMAGS.INFO / NEXT DEADLINE: 7/10/20

Letter from the Mayor Dear Tring

NEWS IN BRIEF

ow that lockdown is easing and life in Tring returns to a new normal, it is important that we remember how fortunate we are. The majority of the people of Tring have stayed well; our sympathies go to the family and friends of those who lost their lives or were very ill in the pandemic. As a community we have stayed strong and supportive. The community spirit that we found during lockdown will help us to stay close knit and a town that others will envy.

I know that some of you have found it very difficult and I encourage you to seek help. I hope that we will all continue to support the businesses in Tring and surrounding villages. Tring Town Council will continue to support the High Street and encourage local enterprises where it can. We are working with larger councils and prompting national government to help. Unfortunately, during this period Councillor John Bowden, a Tring and a Dacorum Councillor, passed away. He will be missed for his determination to help those in his ward and his work as Chairman of the management committee of Tring Community Centre. Many people have visited our wonderful areas of natural beauty, unfortunately, some have not been careful about their litter. During the autumn I will arrange litter picks around the town and liaise with others in outlying areas. You can contact the Mayor at any time at admin@tring.gov.uk. Roxanne Ransley, Mayor, Tring Town Council

New team at Tring Corinthians

Tring Corinthians AFC has appointed a new management team. Jamie Roberts and Andy Hockley join as Joint Managers with a wealth of experience in the Spartan Leagues and excellent coaching skills. Joining them is Richard Kyson as Director of Football, who has worked as a professional scout and currently works closely with a football agency as a consultant.

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LOCAL FOCUS SEND US YOUR NEWS / TELEPHONE: 01442 824300 / EMAIL: EDITORIAL@LIVINGMAGS.INFO / NEXT DEADLINE: 7/10/20

The wraps come off Tring Together pivots during lockdown

f you’ve been watching the building work at Tring’s Natural History Museum with interest, you’ll be glad to know it’s scheduled to be finished by the time you read this. Paul Kitching, head of the Natural History Museum at Tring, tells Living: ‘The building is the home of the National Ornithology Collection. The skeletons of the pigeons that Charles Darwin bred as part of his experiment to prove his Theory of Evolution are housed there. There are more modern specimens, such as red kite from their reintroduction to the area.’ The roof of the building, which was built in the 1960s and 1970s, has been renewed, and insulation, solar panels, new doors and windows have been added. The changes have been made to make the building more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, while providing the long-term preservation of this important collection.

he folk at Tring Together had to quickly adapt and think on their feet when lockdown was implemented. Three weeks of events for the Spring Fayre had to be turned into virtual experiences. An integral part of the Spring Fayre was the commemoration of VE Day, but all those plans had to change and a short four-minute film showing the folk of Tring commemorating VE Day can be seen at www.tringteamparish.org.uk. Sadly, the annual Tring Summer Carnival celebrations in June were also affected by the lockdown measures. But Tring Together asked Tringites and Tringalings alike to submit their photo of Carnival days from way back. Photos can be seen, starting from 1968, at www. tringtogether.org.uk. The hard work continues behind the scenes for celebration favourites such as the Apple Fayre and the Christmas Festival.

Having their cake…

ongrats to Toby and Sarah Murray, who celebrated the 10th anniversary of Beechwood Fine Foods recently. Covid-19 put paid to the planned party, so they shared homemade birthday cake with customers, friends, suppliers and colleagues at the Frogmore Street shop.

8 / Tring Living

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

LOCAL

Smiths puts the brakes on after 60 years

e’re sorry to say that a Wiggington coach company has ceased trading after more than 60 years. Owner John Smith told Living: ‘The business was started by my father, Geoff. I came into the business full-time when I left school at 15 in 1978. It is all that I have done for my working life and therefore feels a bit raw at the moment. ‘My Dad was establishing the business, while juggling his family life with his wife, Sheila, and three children. Dad was chairman of Watford Spastic Society for a number of years. He was also vice-chairman of Watford FC for several years under Elton John.’ Mr Smith met his wife Lynne at the football club. They have been married for 34 years and have three daughters Kelly, Lucy and Sophie. ‘We have been left with no work or income since 20 March. The decision has not been made lightly. It comes with a sad and heavy heart that we have had to close our family business after so many years.’

Honking for Hope

heddington coach company Masons joined more than 500 vehicles that descended on London over the summer for ‘Honk for Hope’. The protest was drawing attention to the plight of the UK coach industry, which has suffered over the pandemic, with most companies not eligible for help from the government’s Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund. It followed a meeting where Candice Mason was one of five representative of the coach industry who hoped to convince the Minister for Roads that they needed help. The protest was organised after Baroness Vere refused any special help. Candice told Living: ‘The story that is John Smith’s is replicated from here to Wales, to Scotland.’ Candice and the convoy also garnered the support of local MP Greg Smith who helped to raise its profile within the House of Commons Masons, which runs regular day trips and holidays from Tring, will need to treble its trips next year to make up for the shortfalls of the pandemic. She asked that if people are concerned and wish to help, they should write to their MP. See their updated list of trips at masonscoachhire.co.uk

Up the Junction

ood to see that throughout the summer the Grand Junction Arms has been kept open, albeit at a reduced level inside with only six socially distanced tables. However, in the large canal-side beer garden, there’s plenty of room for dozens of outdoor tables, with a temporary hospitality terrace and viewing platform. They’ve been serving drinks throughout the week and providing a limited menu from their grill van at the weekend.

Run by Éamonn Borg-Neal (pictured left with bartender Sam Gough, right) , the son of Peter, the chairman of the locally-founded national pub group, Oakman Inns, the apple has not fallen far from the tree as he, too, pursues a career in the hospitality industry.

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

Autumn 2020 / 9

LOCAL FOCUS SEND US YOUR NEWS / TELEPHONE: 01442 824300 / EMAIL: EDITORIAL@LIVINGMAGS.INFO / NEXT DEADLINE: 7/10/20

Book fest on camera

en Moorhouse from Our Bookshop in Tring was a familiar figure on his bike over lockdown, as he delivered reading material to hungry bookworms.

‘There was an essence that books were the fourth emergency service,’ he recalls. ‘The safest place to hide from what was going on was behind a good book.’ The delivery service is here to stay, as are Ben’s author interviews for the shop’s YouTube channel. And the good news for anyone looking forward to November’s Book Festival is that he has plans for that too. ‘I am toying with the idea of having socially distanced venues set up, where you will buy an online ticket that will include the book.’ A three-camera setup will provide virtual guests with a fabulous view. And finally, look out for a ticketed online event in September with Ann Cleeves (the writer behind TV hits Shetland and Vera). Keep up to date with the book shop news at www.tringbookfestival.co.uk/bookshop

1HL

A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

The generation game Prudent financial planning should cater for the needs of all family members, from the youngest to the oldest.

hen the Queen turned 94 on 21 April 2020, she served as a very public reminder of how much longer, as a society, we are living. In her own family, four generations are now all alive at the same time, from the Queen herself down to her latest great-grandchild. An increasing number of families now find themselves in the same position, which has implications for financial planning. As a nonagenarian, Her Majesty is far from alone. The number of people over 90 years old rose by 44% between 2008 and 2018, according to the report Estimates of the very old, including centenarians, UK: 2002 to 2018, published online by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in September 2019. We are now witnessing a phenomenon where the baby boomers – those born in the post-war era and in retirement – represent the wealthiest generation in society. However, whilst they enjoy the fruits of their labour, they are sandwiched between elderly parents facing the challenges of old age and children struggling with the hangover of university debts and rising house prices.

For those born after the Second World War and in the 1950s, the economy of their working years was benign and kind to them; but it was less so for those born in the 1980s and 1990s – the so-called ‘millennials’ – who are finding it harder to get jobs and to get onto the property ladder. Increasing life expectancy and major social change mean many need their wealth to work harder for the whole family While our children are struggling with their finances, our parents are living longer. This has led to an increase in the need for long-term care, which is likely to be financed from accumulated savings, selling the family home or with support from younger generations. A study into intergenerational wealth and retirement planning, which combined ONS data with an Opinium Research survey of 4,000 UK adults in April 2019, estimated that the number of families with multiple generations in retirement at the same time will exceed one million in the next 20 years. This means people may need to

start reassessing how they plan for the later stages of life. Traditionally, wealth has passed from one generation to the next upon death. However, intergenerational wealth management challenges that notion and looks at how families can use their wealth more collaboratively to support each other during their lifetimes. This offers legitimate estate planning and tax mitigation opportunities, whilst providing the much-needed assistance to help alleviate the financial burdens of everyday life. St. James’s Place provides a range of family-oriented financial products and services, enabling families to work collaboratively to support each other across the generations. Financial support need not be in the form of a handout; it can become an integral part of generational financial planning. Whether you would like to help your children onto the housing ladder, contribute to a grandchild’s education or wedding, or help your parents with later-life planning, careful consideration can ensure your wealth works harder for all your family without putting your own security and retirement comfort at risk.

01442 874888 stringermann@sjpp.co.uk www.stringermann.com

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 websitewww.sjp.co.uk/products. The title ‘Partner Practice’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. H2SJP0672 07/20

LOCAL FOCUS SEND US YOUR NEWS / TELEPHONE: 01442 824300 / EMAIL: INFO@LIVINGMAGS.INFO / NEXT DEADLINE: 7/10/20

Ditch the plastic

ast year, Joseph Stopps set himself the personal challenge of going plastic free for one month. Now he is calling on Tring residents to join him on his mission. ‘I didn’t quite achieve becoming 100% plastic free but I came very close. One of the rewarding things was discovering great local shops that I didn’t know about and the high quality of food they had to offer. “Fast forward to 2020 and I confess that, due to lockdown, I have slipped back into old habits. So I am setting myself the challenge again this year, but inviting others in Tring to join me.’ Sign up to the challenge at www.plasticfreeseptember.com

Independent Living returns

here’s a not-so ‘new kid on the block’ in New Road, Princes Risborough. Independent Living (ILC) has relocated back into the town and the increase in customer numbers confirms that it is the right move. The folk at ILC are celebrating their return with a new logo and some long-overdue improvements to their website. Everything else remains as it was: the fully-trained team continues to be led by a retired health and social care professional with more than 30 years of experience working in local acute hospitals and the surrounding community. They carry a wide range of mobility and personal care products; their friendly, trained staff are available to assist customers in making an informed choice when seeking a solution to a temporary or long-term mobility or personal care need. www.ilcmobility.co.uk

Tring in the Media Matt Baker kept it local on BBC’s Countryfile as he walked by Tring Reservoirs and along the Grand Union Canal. He walked through the Tring Gap between Cow Roast and Marsworth. He praised its ‘olde-world charm, untouched by progress’, then hitched a lift on a pair of working boats delivering gas, oil and fuel to the boats on the canal. They mentioned Bulbourne, and stopped off at the lock at Startops. He also highlighted Tring reservoirs as ‘some of the best bird watching spots in southern England’. He stopped at Tringford pumping station and went inside, meeting Charles Baker, ‘the engineer who keeps it all working’. Startops reservoir also got a name check. Countryfile, 5 July 2020

12 / Tring Living

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

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SHOP LOCAL Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our selection of great things to buy in Berkhamsted, Tring and the villages 01

08 10

14 / Tring Living

www.livingmags.info

13 LOCAL

Fancy That - Tring 07 Beatrix Potter Soft Toys £15 & £20 08 Chess sets £24 and £30 09 Shut the Box £7 10 Raindrops Kids Umbrellas £12.99 17

Beechwood Fine Foods - Tring 01 Cheyney’s Chilli Sauces, sweet and subtle or hot & spicy £4.95 02 Percy’s luxury biscuits, a modern twist on classic flavours £3.95 03 BCP - Sarah’s homemade seasonal preserves £2.95 Creative Collective - Berkhamsted 04 Mallow & White, award winning, all natural hand sanitiser with 70% alcohol - In £5 & £12 bottles Debbie Shrimpton Illustrates - Berkhamsted 05 Signed & framed illustrations of local landmarks £45 06 Bespoke signed & framed home illustrations £95

Number Twenty - Berkhamsted 11 Ginko accordion lamp £47 12 Blue glass tea light holders £5.75 13 Yellow chair £325 and cushion £35 each 14 Powder bamboo trainer socks £7.50 Gems and Jules - Tring 15 Sterling silver fused wire heart bracelet £55 16 Sterling silver daisy toe ring £15 17 Sterling silver turquoise charm ankle chain £18 Puddingstone Distillery - Wilstone 18 Campfire Gin glass £6 for one or £30 for a box of 6 19 Hertfordshire Cook Book by Meze Publishing featuring Hertfordshire restaurants and food producers. RRP £14.95 available online and instore for £13

Autumn 2020 / 15

LOCAL

SHOP LOCAL

Puddingstone Distillery Wilstone 20 Domestique Gin £33 Tring Brewery 21 Raven King IPA £2.50 22 Lunardi’s Oatmeal Pale £2.50

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

16 / Tring Living

www.livingmags.info

Bly spirit The Bly family has a long association with the town of Tring, as John Bly explains

‘T

he Bly’s first connection with Tring dates back to the 1440s when a group of French noblemen, their sires and assorted retinue arrived in the area and settled here. ‘And when a descendant of Stephen of Blois married into the Manor of Tring his name was pronounced as spelt - Bloy. Signed with a cross ‘By the middle of the 18th century the spelling had changed to Bligh, which in turn was changed to Bly in 1863. ‘Despite noble origins, we soon descended into trade and commerce; upholstery in London, pottery decorators in Lowestoft, seafarers - most notably Captain Bligh (of Mutiny on the Bounty fame). In Tring we were general dealers, shepherds, cattlemen, innkeepers, fellmongers, horse traders and finally in the 1870s my great grandfather declared that he had been an antiques dealer since the reign of William IV. ‘Most lived in Frogmore Street and had The Black Horse, The White Horse, The Dolphin and The Victoria pubs to drink in. Next to The Black Horse was one of many bakeries (now Hughes & Co, Solicitors) where my grandfather was born. He was teetotal but was supportive of those not of that persuasion. ‘Probably just as well for he might otherwise

LOCAL HISTORY

have fallen out with the rest of the family; particularly a cousin Arthur ‘Bumper’ Bly, a rotund and jolly horse dealer. ‘Legend has it that he decided to paint two mangy chestnut ponies with whitewash to make them more attractive. Two revellers come out of the ‘Black’un’ and bought Bumper’s horses. All was well until it rained before they got home! As a result Bumper left town and ended up in London where he started the first horse-drawn pantechnicon (a large van) service out of Euston Station. Tring Mayor ‘From an equally humble beginning my grandfather rose to become Mayor of Tring. He co-founded the Tring YMCA, opened the first cinema in Akeman Street and the new Fire Station on the corner of Akeman and High Streets. ‘From pushing a handcart to Aylesbury market and back, loaded with furniture to sell in his shop in Albert Street, grandfather Bly moved to the High Street and owned horses and a cart. He did maintenance work for Lord Rothschild having learned cabinet making, restoring porcelain and metalware.’ ‘The first Friday after Grandfather John died in 1936, my father was surprised to see a line of people waiting outside our shop. The first person asked if young Mr Bly would continue to give the weekly shilling for a portion of fish and chips on the market, as Mr Bly senior had done.’ Do you have a story about your family’s history in Tring? Contact us at editorial@livingmags.info

Autumn 2020 / 17

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BUTTERNUT SQUASH CAKE Ingredients: • 300g self-raising flour • 300g light muscovado sugar • 3 tsp mixed spice • 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 175g sultanas • ½ tsp salt • 4 free range eggs, beaten

For the frosting:

• 200g butter, melted and slightly cooled

• 200g full fat soft cheese (Philadelphia)

• finely grated zest 1 orange

• 85g butter, softened

• 1 tbsp orange juice

• 100g icing sugar, sifted

• 500g butternut squash flesh, grated

• finely grated zest 1 orange • 1 tsp orange juice

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4/fan oven 160C. 2. Grease and line a 23cm spring-form cake tin 3. Put the flour, sugar, spice, bicarbonate of soda, sultanas and salt into a large bowl and stir to combine. 4. Beat the eggs into the melted butter, stir in the orange zest and juice, then mix into the dry ingredients until combined. Stir in the grated butternut squash. 5. Pour the mix into the tin and smooth the top. 6. Bake for 50-60 mins, or until golden and springy to the touch. 7. Meanwhile, make the frosting. Beat together the cheese, butter, icing sugar, orange zest and juice till smooth and creamy, then set aside in the fridge. 8. When the cake is done, leave to cool for 15 mins then turn it onto a cooling rack. 9. When completely cold, spread the frosting over the top of the cake. NOTE: As the frosting is made with cream cheese the cake will need to be stored in the fridge. With thanks to Sarah Murray from Beechwood Fine Foods in Tring for this scrumptious recipe.

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RECIPE

Make this scrumptious squash cake as a seasonal treat for Hallowe’en.

Visit the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new independent bookshop and home of the Tring Book Festival. We stock all new books. Any orders made before 5pm will be in stock the next day. Join the mailing list and see our events. www.tringbookfestival.co.uk

87 High Street, Tring HP23 4AB Tring 827653

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TAKE IT EASY ON

YOURSELF You don’t have to pound the streets or whizz up and down country lanes on two wheels to get fit. Here’s our guide to a more gentle way of exercising

here were two kinds of people over lockdown – those who busily posted up their latest 10km run route, and those who busily took a walk to the fridge and back! If you have got out of the habit of exercising there are plenty of ways for men and women to get back into gentle exercise. Want you back for good Pilates is well known for being good for backs, but is definitely a whole body exercise. It promotes a balanced, toned, flexible and strong body, by increasing muscle strength and tone. If you thought Pilates was just for girls, think again, as Liz van Hullen at Tring Pilates Studio, explains: ‘Joseph Pilates invented Pilates when working with hospitalised prisoners of war, on their rehabilitation. It was designed by a man, for men. There are even some Pilates movements that bear specific considerations for men.’ Well loved by ballerinas, rugby players, event riders, and golfers, Liz says: ‘Pilates is

22 / Tring Living

recognised for its qualities in promoting flexibility and managing back pain – neither issues that are specific to women.’ It’s great for people who sit at a desk all day, and you can start off with a really low level of fitness. Breathing techniques also help to improve aerobic health. You don’t really get sweaty, so it’s perfect for a lunchtime workout. And if you’re a stranger to exercise? ‘It’s never too late,’ says Liz. ‘Pilates generates a mind to muscle connection and goes on to lengthen, stretch and strengthen.’

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HEALTH AND BEAUTY Go with the flow ‘Tai Chi is more than just a physical exercise, it is beneficial for mental health and well-being,’ says Catherine Birkinhead, who teaches in Berkhamsted, Tring and Cheddington. Sometimes referred to as meditation in movement and originally an ancient Chinese Martial Art, many people turn to this gentle and yet powerful form of exercise for its health benefits. ‘It is particularly complementary for recovery programmes of illnesses including Covid-19 as it can help to strengthen the lungs and chest cavity as well as the immune system,’ explains Catherine. Its relaxed, flowing movements are low impact and can develop flexibility, strengthen joints, tendons and muscles, develop coordination, balance and core strength, and also ease stress. Catherine adds: ‘It can easily be adapted to your own ability level and slow mindful movement means students are unlikely to overdo exercises and hurt or injure themselves during training.’

Get some help If you don’t know where to begin with exercise, getting an expert to help you is a great idea.

Joseph Pilates invented Pilates when working with hospitalised prisoners of war, on their rehabilitation. It was designed by a man, for men. There are even some Pilates movements that bear specific considerations for men.

“

Train your mind and body As well as the physical benefits, yoga can help manage stress, improve sleep, reduce headaches, help to ease back and neck pain and improve immune function. If you are new to yoga, or returning to exercise after a break, Pauline Gibbons at Tring Yoga Studio recommends beginner classes to ‘introduce you to basic postures and allow you to move on to a more challenging class or stay where you feel happy.’ Classes vary enormously in intensity. Some are very meditative and gentle such as Yin or Kundalini. Others are more challenging such as Flow, Ashtanga or Strength Core and More (originally designed for men but now open to all).

And the good news is it’s never too late to start yoga. Pauline says: ‘We have members of all ages, shapes and sizes. We believe in adapting and modifying any practice to suit the individual rather than trying to get the individual to suit the practice.’

Autumn 2020 / 23

HEALTH AND BEAUTY Personal trainer Adele Lambert, who has her own private studio in Tring, explains: ‘For someone a bit older who wants to get back into exercise, the key is doing something they enjoy, listening to their bodies and bearing in mind any health, mobility or joint issues.’ She suggests indoor cycling as it takes pressure off the knees, and provides a cardiovascular workout. Kettlebell workouts offer all-round cardiovascular exercise while targeting specific muscle groups Adele says: ‘Personal Training sessions work particularly well for people getting back into exercise. People are engaged more as they know they are doing exercises that are designed specifically for them. They see results quicker and are more likely to stick to their plan. ‘If someone hasn’t exercised for a while they need to be careful of overdoing it and putting themselves off or injuring themselves. Personal

training can help you exercise safely and effectively if you have medical issues, have been pregnant, and are post or peri menopausal.’ There are many other gentle forms of exercise to consider. Enjoy a social game of golf, a leisurely cycle ride or a swim. Great for cardio fitness and kind on the joints. Whatever exercise you choose to do, have fun and as Adele Lambert says: ‘Reap the benefits of the endorphin rush and feeling better, looking better, being more agile and having less postural issues or joint problems as you age.’

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Autumn 2020 / 25

OWN A ROOM OF ONE’S

Did lockdown make you realise your house isn’t big enough? A garden building could be the answer. We show you how to create a ‘man cave’, a games or playroom, an office, gym or guest room

s so many of us have spent a lot of the spring and summer at home, you may have finally realised that you need more space! You could move or extend, but these options require a pretty hefty cash injection - despite the stamp duty holiday. So, adding a garden room is a good compromise. It isn’t as pricey as an extension, nor does it involve much upheaval. In fact, specially designed garden rooms or offices can start from just under £10,000. If you don’t want to stretch the budget that far, you could consider using a large shed or summerhouse, especially if you already have one that could be converted. With the addition of a sofa bed, some teamaking facilities – and even a spare toilet if funds and planning allow, your garden room could make an extra space for guests to stay though do check our ‘planning points’ on the next page.

Make a man cave If you didn’t get a lot of say in the decoration of the main house, take the opportunity to make

26 / Tring Living

your man cave as masculine as you want. A classic American ‘den’ features plaids and stripes in deep greens, dark reds and browns. A man cave should reflect your interests. It may be where you keep your guitar and music collection, it could be a creative area for a hobby, where you can hide away your materials and tools from the kids, or perhaps you’d rather have your own bar, complete with bar stools, optics and beer pumps.

Games or playroom Extra space for the children to play can be a lifesaver, especially if you only have one reception room. A playroom allows space for bigger toys such as toy kitchens and workbenches. You can also set up activities in the playroom, rather than having them take over the kitchen or living room. If your home has a neutral palette, take the opportunity to be bright and bold in the playroom. Get creative and paint a fun mural, or order some fun giant decals of favourite cartoon characters for the walls.

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Set up a painting/creation station with lots of drawers for craft materials, and make sure there is space in front of the playroom for water and messy play.

Office Taking your office out of the house and into the garden has so many benefits. You can work away from everyone else’s noise and it allows you to make noise away from everyone else – perfect if you like to get up early or work into the wee hours. It also has the benefit of allowing you to ‘close the door’ on work at the end of the day. Make sure you have a decent Wi-Fi signal – if you can’t get decent internet, you’ll be back at the kitchen table in no time! A Wi-Fi extender is an easy option but its reach will be limited. A powerline network uses the electrical power cable to link between the house and garden room. If you are having electricity laid to your garden room, get an ethernet cable laid at the same time for a more reliable and secure connection. Decorate your garden office in colours that inspire you - yellow is supposed to be stimulating, green energising, and soft peaches and pinks are said to boost creativity and focus.

Gym Release your exercise bike from its duty as clothes hanger and pop it into the garden room. A garden room can give you room to lay out an exercise mat, and if you enjoy exercise videos and streamed classes, make sure you have a TV and an internet connection in the room. The best bit about a home gym is that you can choose your equipment – if you just do cardio work, you can include a bike, a rowing machine and plenty of space to do aerobics, boxercise or whatever your favourite exercise class is. Remember to include a decent fan too, for when you get a sweat on! Planning points Paul Smith, director at Milton Keynes-based Apex Planning Consultants, explains that your garden room may be covered by permitted

development, meaning you don’t need to apply for planning permission. However, he says: ‘the use of the outbuilding must be incidental to your home – so if it is being used as an extra bedroom, that is unlikely to be classed as incidental. Experience shows that the interpretation of what is ‘incidental’ can subtly vary depending on your local planning authority, so it might be prudent to seek its preplanning advice. Alternatively, you can submit an application for a Certificate of Lawful Proposed Use or Development, which would confirm that the building work is lawful – useful if you ever sell up.’ Find out more at www.apexplanning.co.uk.

Better by design Emma Holbrook from Berkhamsted’s Soden Style offers design tips: • Keep it simple, less is more both inside and outside and makes the space feel bigger • Create a Pinterest board of your likes and get inspired by a theme • Think about crafty storage to keep the space decluttered and welcoming • Remember adequate electrical sockets and lighting plus heating and plumbing • Invest in great comfy seating that can be turned into an extra sleeping space • Get as much natural light as you can, then add task/atmosphere lighting • Ensure your ‘walls talk to you’, so any art you love, photography, treasures from your travels, loud wallpaper…

Get as much natural light as you can, then add task/atmosphere lighting, says Emma Holbrook

Autumn 2020 / 27

BRING HAPPINESS AND CALM USING FENG SHUI

ow that we’re spending extra time at home, having a calm and happy environment has never been more important. The ancient art and science of Feng Shui can help you create an everyday living space that supports you and all members of the family. Using Feng Shui generates more peace and harmony, while encouraging productivity and helping you be more creative. Just a few Feng Shui tweaks can produce effective changes. Here are my top Feng Shui Tips for a calmer and happier home. 1) Remove all clutter from around the front door. The quality of Qi (pronounced chi), or energy, that flows in though the entrance sets the tone for the rest of the house. If your front door, either inside and out, is blocked by shoes, boots, coats, or worse still rubbish, the Qi will be messy and disturbed. Clearing the entrance and hallway way will encourage calm and free flowing Qi. This creates more harmonious Qi that can then flow around your house. 2) Are you or your family members sitting or sleeping under a pointed lightshade or a light fitting with sharp edges? This creates agitated Qi where people don’t feel settled, or can even become argumentative. Change to smoother, rounded shapes and enjoy a less stressful atmosphere. 3) Working from home? Move your desk so that you have a solid wall behind you. This creates good Feng Shui support so that you can be

28 / Tring Living

Feng Shui Specialist Denise O’Dwyer offers five tips for a happier home

more focused and productive, and less tired at the end of the day. If you sit in line with a door, either move to another place or make sure you close the door when you work. Sitting in line with an open door puts you in the path of fast-moving Qi, which depletes your personal energy. This also applies to children studying at home. 4) Bedroom Feng Shui is important because that’s where we spend around a third of our lives. Make sure your bedroom door is closed when you sleep. This slows down the Qi and creates a restorative and healing environment for sleeping. Never sleep in line with an open door, and always keep any ensuite door closed to stop the Qi draining away. If the quality of your sleep is not as good as you would like it to be, remove the TV or other electronic devices from the bedroom. Cover the TV with a cloth or scarf when you sleep if you must have a TV in the bedroom. 5) Finally, take a look at your garden. If there are any broken items or stagnant water, clear them away. Garden Feng Shui also has an effect on your life. So put on your Feng Shui glasses and if anything looks or feels negative remove it to make sure your Feng Shui is as harmonious as possible. Give Feng Shui a try. You could be surprised by the results. Denise O’Dwyer, Feng Shui Specialist www.FengShuiElement.co.uk. 07905 9099037

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WORKING FROM HOME – THE NEW ‘NORMAL’ Ergonomics expert Laura Clark offers tips on how to set up a home office for comfort and health

lot of us have been faced with the new challenge of working from home and not everyone is well kitted out for this. Some people are lucky enough to have some kind of designated office area or building, but some are having to make do with the sofa or dining table. From an ergonomic viewpoint, this is far from ideal. Because working at home may continue for some time, it is imperative to ensure that the home set-up is good, or as good as it can be. Over time, incorrect set ups can lead to areas of discomfort developing and worsening, if not addressed. Follow these simple tips for a home working environment that is comfortable and offers the correct support.

Breaks Working in the comfort of your own home often means you get up less frequently than at the office. There is no one to go and speak to, and communication is done via Zoom, phone or email. Plus you are generally more relaxed. The body is designed to move and, even with a good set-up, it can start to go wrong if regular and consistent breaks aren’t taken. Lunchtime needs to be away from the working area. Top tip: Leave your work area a minimum of once an hour, even for a few minutes. This gives the eyes a rest from the screen, keeps the muscles active and blood flow stimulated.

Laptop or PC use Laptops aren’t very ergonomic inventions. You need to make sure the screen is at the right height so your head and neck are looking straight at it, not downwards, which can cause headaches and upper back issues. A laptop stand, or even some thick books can be used to raise it. A separate keyboard and mouse should be used

because the built-in options cause a lot of wrist, elbow and shoulder issues such as RSI. Have the keyboard and mouse within easy reach and a little gap in front of the keyboard to rest your wrists when typing. Top tip: Use the laptop essentially as a PC with screen at the correct height, and separate keyboard and mouse. The same rule for screen height applies to a desktop computer.

Chair If you are lucky enough to have an office chair, avoid perching and leaning forwards, and sit nice and upright with your back fully against the backrest. This provides optimal support. Armrests should be positioned just under your arms when they are at a 90-degree angle. This relieves the strain on the shoulders. Top tip: Avoid using the sofa if possible and if you really have to use a dining chair, try to use a cushion in the lumbar area, and make sure you get up regularly. Laura is a self-employed workstation assessor. Normally she travels to workplaces to carry out workstation assessments for employees who are experiencing discomfort or who need more specialist attention but at the moment she is offering a ‘Workstation overview’ service for companies that want to make sure their staff are well set up at home. All that is needed is a photo of each end user at their home set-up. laura@lauraclarkergonomics.co.uk, www.lauraclarkergonomics.co.uk

Autumn 2020 / 29

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EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR GARDEN

Summer may be coming to a close, but you don’t have to head indoors and hibernate. Clever use of autumn planting, lighting, outdoor heating, garden buildings – even cosy blankets – can help you enjoy your outdoor room throughout the autumn

uring lockdown, lots of us got busy making our outdoor space a lovely place to spend time in, so it would be a shame if we headed back inside, just because ‘summer’ is over. A few alterations will help you enjoy your garden right through the autumn and even into the winter.

Let there be light Jules Cant of Tierra Designs says: ‘Winter lighting can be used to highlight parts of the garden that are often overlooked, be it the gnarled bark of a tree or the seedheads still standing late into the year. The key is using subtle lighting to illuminate the bits you want to highlight, rather than blanket lighting the whole garden.’ Umbrella lights can be attached to your patio parasol, so they can light up a table. Hang single lights in the trees like baubles, and place uplighters at the base of architectural plants. For a modern look, try running LED strip lights underneath a bench, or steps. But do remember to turn off mains-powered lights before you go to bed, both for safety and so that they don’t disrupt wildlife.

34 / Tring Living

The heat is on Don’t let the party end because everyone gets chilly. If you tend to pop out in the garden for an hour or so after work, a heater that you can just switch on and off is ideal. If you are choosing an electric heater look for an infrared one – it will heat your body, rather than the air around you, so is perfect for breezy weather. Freestanding heaters are handy as they can be moved where you want them – even inside sometimes - although a wall-mounted one might be better if you have younger children. Gas heaters can be very effective, but remember that the gas canister can make them heavy. Sitting around a fire pit or chimenea can make you feel like you are camping – and of course it’s what you need to toast marshmallows! Some can double up as barbecues with the addition of a suitable grill. Or sit a Dutch oven on the fire to cook warming stews and even bread.

Give me shelter Creating a little shelter from the wind and light rain can open up many more hours of

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GARDENS

Autumn stunners Jules Cant of Tierra Designs recommends his favourite autumn plants. ‘Grasses will often hold their seedheads well into the autumn as well as offering some nice golden tones in the low winter sun. Molinia caerulea subsp.arundinacea ‘Skyracer’ is a tall grass that turns a warm yellow and even looks great when covered in frost. ‘Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ is another late flowerer with arching bottlebrush flowers – it’s also quite well behaved so ideal for the smaller garden. Panicum grasses also come late to the party and offer some good autumnal interest.

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garden time. A huge cantilever parasol can cover a big table and give some shelter from a bit of drizzle. If you want something more permanent, there are plenty of custom-made and DIY wooden gazebos to choose from. Or how about a covered reading seat, ideal for just one to enjoy a book before the sun goes down. If you want to cover a larger area of patio, a cheap way to do this is a with a waterproof patio sail. 

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‘Later-flowering perennials include Schizostylis, Asters, Heleniums, and Rudbeckia, which not only flowers late but holds its seedheads right through winter, offering great colour and texture for the last quarter of the year. ‘The seedheads of Phlomis russelina stand right through winter and offer an amazing spectacle on a frosty morning. ‘For larger shrubs and trees, nothing quite beats Rhus typhina or the sumach tree for vibrancy. Abelia grandiflora, meanwhile, provides beautiful scent well into November.’

If your garden is particularly windy, use existing features - the walls of the house, or a hedge - to create a more secluded area. A very sociable area can be created with a sunken seating area surrounding a fire pit.



Cosy up Keep a pile of suitably soft and snuggly blankets in a pretty basket by the patio door so that you can slip one around your shoulders, or over a cold seat, as the sun goes down.

Autumn 2020 / 35

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I wanted to thank you again for donating the ad space to us in your recent Tring and Berkhamsted Living editions. As you know we used it as an opportunity to promote our Buy a Bale campaign and did see donations increase as the magazine was distributed. It also prompted a few volunteers and supporters that had previously been involved with us to reach out and say hello which was lovely. Thank you again for supporting us. Karen Gosen, Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled Centre.

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HAVE A

HAPPY BACK TO SCHOOL

As children go back to school – many of them after a break of almost six months - it will be important to support them

‘W

hen they have a big change, children can have underlying anxiety,’ says Gayle Hamill, integrative psychotherapist and founder of Tring-based Circle Therapy. Gayle explains what parents can look out for as children return to a school that may appear different in many ways to the one they left: ‘For primary school children, what you’ll see is some regression in behaviour. They could be irritable, and be oppositional at home, less willing to take part in things and help out. ‘You also need to watch out for them withdrawing from family activities that they would normally have engaged in, and they may be more emotional. For instance, challenges with friendships may come across as being more of a problem. ‘When children can’t express themselves, you’ll see them acting out, snacking more (because they are after a dopamine hit), and more resistant to coming off screens.’ Older kids and teens For secondary-age children, parents should keep an eye out for them becoming more withdrawn. ‘They will be angrier and less tolerant – it could

38 / Tring Living

be about what they eat or what they have to do around the home. ‘They will want more screen time and be more withdrawn from things they would normally enjoy.’ So, what can parents do to help? Gayle says parents should ‘be more curious’ about how children are feeling, but give them space, rather than interrogating them. She suggests talking in the car, so it feels less pressured, and giving them some positive control. Perhaps letting them choose some treats to go on the shopping list, being allowed to choose the film for a movie night or deciding on a destination for a day out. Particularly for older children, avoid heated exchanges, and encourage communication with friends and other trusted family members. Mindfulness Mindfulness can be a good way to ease anxiety. Mindfulness helps you to ‘be in the moment’ concentrating on what you are doing and letting go of all the other things on your mind – school, work, exams, friend problems and so on. Colouring is a great mindfulness activity for children who can sit still long enough, Baking is also good. Gayle explains that it is ‘grounding’

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More advice Sarah O’Brien, from Hector’s House, the Berkhamsted-based suicide prevention and mental health awareness charity offers more advice: Validate: Validate every emotion they present to you. If they tell you that they are feeling anxious, angry or upset - reassure them that the emotion is normal, welcomed and accepted. Tell them it’s okay to not feel okay right now, because everything is different and that’s hard to deal with. Tell them by allowing their negative emotions space, the quicker they will pass - because all feelings, good and bad, come and go as long as we recognise them. Physical feelings: If they are struggling to communicate how they are feeling emotionally, ask them how it feels physically. This is much easier and ‘real’ for young people to explain. Are they feeling a tightness in their chest? Feel like they need to cry or shout? Is their heart racing? Again, remind them these feelings are common signs of stress or worry, and help them through it using techniques mentioned by Gayle (such as colouring, mindfulness, etc). It’s not black and white: Remember that children and young people have limited life experience, and this means they are more prone to catastrophising situations. This is very common with exam-age young people, who may be worried about the amount of time they’ve had to prepare. Sit down with them and ask what they are worried about, and write down the absolute worst case scenario and the absolute best. Help them to recognise these are

KIDS

When children can’t express themselves, you’ll see them acting out, snacking more (because they are after a dopamine hit), and more resistant to coming off screens

“

and has many sensory properties as well. Older children might like to try journaling, and exercise is really important too. You could even try lying down and looking up at the clouds, watching them float by, and talking about what you see in them, how they make you feel. Teens might be happier listening to a podcast such as Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place or the Headspace app for guided meditation and mindfulness.

“

both pretty unlikely, and something in the middle is much more probable - and easier to handle. Inform your child: Give them as much information about the new school system as you can before they go back so that they are well prepared. Create a safe space at home: Going back to school will be exhausting, so they will need downtime. Don’t nag about untidy bedrooms or homework and allow them to rest. Create a healthy bedtime routine too. Active listening: If your child or teenager begins to open up to you, if possible, drop everything you are doing and listen. Non-direct conversations are usually best, so if you can, go for a walk or a drive to avoid the awkwardness of eye contact and body language. When your child opens up to you, remember your 4 P’s: Praise, Praise, Praise and Patience. Be honest: It’s oddly reassuring to a child to know their parents don’t always know the answers, so be truthful about that. It will remind them you are human too and that it’s okay to not know the answers! You are not alone: If you are seriously concerned about a young person’s well-being, there are countless number of helplines out there for you and your child. • Call Young Minds Parent Helpline for advice: 0808-802-5544 • Remind your teenager of helplines such as texting HECTOR to 85258 if they want someone anonymous to talk to. • Email hihector@hectorshouse.org.uk for any tailored advice or help you may need. We are here for you.

Autumn 2020 / 39

Balance and pace While it is true that children have missed classroom time, trying to ‘make up for lost time’ with intensive work will prove overwhelming. The school day will be draining, and your child will need plenty of time to rest in the evenings and at weekends. They may well be resistant to doing anything additional to their homework, and if so then avoid pushing them. Once they are feeling settled, you may like to introduce some practice at home. Reading together, quick-fire mental maths in the car, helping you to measure while cooking – all are simple ways to consolidate key learning without it feeling too much like a chore. Family board games and entertaining puzzle books, such as crosswords or Sudoku, are also fun options.

RETURNING TO THE CLASSROOM WITH CALM AND CONFIDENCE Going back to school after the long summer holiday is never easy, but for many children the return this year will be the hardest yet! Here’s how you can help Preparation is key Leading up to the new term, begin re-implementing routine. Aim to spend a regular amount of time each day on educational activities. Replace some video game or TV time with reading, creative projects or puzzles. A set bedtime routine will help to minimise sleep disruption due to nerves or over-tiredness when school starts. If your child is anxious about going back to school, encourage them to reframe this feeling as excitement – after all, both can feel like butterflies in your tummy! Picking out pretty stationery, a cool new school bag or uniform shopping can morph nerves into looking forward to a fresh start. Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) offers a range of tools that can aid children in managing their feelings, such as the Learning State and anchors.

40 / Tring Living

But what about the Eleven Plus exam? The sensible decision to delay the Eleven Plus (11+) exam means that children now have around seven to eight weeks of preparation time left. While it may seem counter-intuitive, a gentle approach is even more important for these pupils. Pushing too hard now may easily lead to burnout or frustration with the whole process, particularly when they are also managing the return to school. Support, understanding and plenty of rest will be crucial. Need a little help? Flying Start Tuition is an award-winning tuition centre offering classes for children from year one through to GCSEs, including their popular Eleven Plus programmes. Classes and courses run at their main centre in Chesham and at their five satellite centres in Amersham, Aylesbury, Berkhamsted, Jordans Village and Little Chalfont. Flying Start are Ofsted registered and accept Childcare Vouchers and Tax-Free Childcare. Bursaries are also available – please ask for details. For further information, contact: t: 01494 772 898. e: hello@flyingstarttuition.co.uk w: www.flyingstarttuition.co.uk For Berkhamsted tuition, contact: t: 01442 385 896. e: kaitlin@flyingstarttuition.co.uk

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Power up

for the Eleven Plus At Flying Start, we have a unique, holistic approach to tuition that helps to minimise stress and optimise success! Our combination of expert tutors, extensive resources, 11+ Superpowers™ and small classes will leave your child feeling prepared, empowered and ready for the big day!

At Flying Start, we understand that everyone learns in diﬀerent ways. That’s why we oﬀer a variety of tuition options, designed to support your child whatever stage they’re at. From laying strong foundations in Years 2 and 3, through to tailored test preparation in Years 4 and 5, our unique programmes of term-time, holiday courses and mock tests will: • Strengthen competency in core subjects • Grow confdence and ability • Boost motivation • Raise self-esteem • Conquer exam nerves Contact us now and find out how we can help your child Power up for the Eleven Plus! t: 01494 772 898 e: hello@flyingstarttuition.co.uk w: www.flyingstarttuition.co.uk Don’t forget... We are Ofsted Registered and accept Childcare Vouchers!

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COMPETITION

COOK UP A STORM WITH THIS MONTH’S COMPETITION

eatured in our Shop Local pages, up for grabs in this issue are two copies of the justpublished Hertfordshire Cook Book, courtesy of Puddingstone Distillery. Published by Meze Publishing, the book features a number of Hertfordshire restaurants and food producers including Tring’s own Puddingstone Distillery (of course!), Tring Brewery and P E Mead Farm Shop (Chiltern Oils). The book is the latest from the ‘Get Stuck In’ series of regional cookbooks from the publishers. Celebrating the county’s best food and drink producers with more than 35 recipes, it includes bars, cafes and restaurants too, including

Lussmanns, which featured in The Sunday Times’ top 100 favourite eating spots in the UK, and dessert specialists The Pudding Stop in St Albans. Each venue or producer has submitted a recipe for the book. If you’re not lucky enough to win a copy, the Hertfordshire Cook Book is being sold by the producers who feature in it. To find out more and enter head to: www.livingmags.info/competitions. Terms and Conditions apply. See website for details.

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Autumn 2020 / 43

PITSTONE HILL, ASHRIDGE AND ALDBURY WALK

WALKS AROUND TOWN This walk follows the ancient Ridgeway with stunning views from the top of Pitstone Hill before returning through the beautiful woodland of the National Trust’s Ashridge Estate Points of Interest • Tring station was constructed by the railway engineer Robert Stephenson. • The Ridgeway National Trail. • Aldbury Nowers Nature Reserve. • Pitstone Hill. • Ashridge Estate. • Albury

his six-mile walk is moderately stile-free. Surfaces are good but slippery at times. There’s a number of kissing gates and one steady and one steeper climb. This circular walk starts and finishes at Tring Railway Station or National Trust Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre car park. Note: This route follows The Ridgeway path to Waypoint 2. Leave the station, cross the road and turn right along the pavement. Cross over Northfield Road and stay in the same direction along the road edge for 100m to the entrance to Westland Farm. Turn left through the gate, walk up beside the concrete driveway and stay in this direction for 130m to a major path junction. 1. Waypoint 1 - Turn left along the wide track for 550m and bear right uphill past the entrance to Aldbury Nowers nature reserve. Ignore the first path on the left, walk forward a few metres and climb the steps to the left. Follow the path through the woods for almost 1km before passing through a gate on to the grassy hillside of Pitstone Hill. Keep straight ahead climbing round the side of the hill to the top and along the ridge before

descending to the car park below. Cross the road and through the gate opposite. Continue straight ahead, keeping to the left of the fence for 550m to a path junction. 2. Waypoint 2 - Turn right, follow the path uphill, through a gate and on to a path junction at the top. 3. Waypoint 3 - Turn right, go through a gate to the right of the kennels and stay on the wide track (Duncombe Terrace) for nearly 2km to arrive at a tall tower, the Bridgewater Monument, and the visitor centre. 4. Waypoint 4 - Continue in the same direction past them and take the wide path downhill. After about 200m fork right to continue to drop down to a road (Toms Hill Road). 5. Waypoint 5 - Turn right and go over the road junction into Station Road. Walk past the pond, the Post Office and village hall. Just after the church turn right on a path signposted to Pitstone Hill. Go through two gates and left through a third just before a large barn. Follow the path through two more gates to reach a T-junction. Turn left and stay on this path to reach a road. Turn right to return to the station and finish the walk.

SEE OUR WEBSITE WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO FOR FULL DIRECTIONS 44 / Tring Living

www.livingmags.info

WHAT’S ON WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO/EVENTS

As we go to print on the magazine, it is still uncertain on the rules around mass gathering events. Please check with the organisers in advance as to whether their event will be going ahead. If you would like to include your event in future magazines complete the form at: www.livingmags.info/submit-event TUESDAY 1 SEP Charity: The Alternative Mix96 Tour de Vale Bike Ride 2020 In aid of WheelPower, runs from 1-30 September. Register for free. www.tourdevale.com Exhibitions: A New Dawn Black Gallery, Unit 44 The Silk Mill Business Park, Brook Street, Tring. 10am-6pm to 5 Sep. The Hastoe Artists, all members of Bucks Art Weeks, exhibit their latest work. www.instagram. com/2020hastoeartists WEDNESDAY 2 SEP Exhibitions: Roses from my Garden Coach House Gallery, the Stables, Waddesdon. 11am-5pm to 25 Oct. Free with grounds admission. Pre-book time slots online. www.waddesdon.seetickets. com/timeslots/waddesdongrounds TUESDAY 8 SEP Talks: Ann Cleeves Our Bookshop, Tring, 7pm. Celebrating the awardwinning crime writer. See website for latest information. www. tringbookfestival.co.uk/ bookshop FRIDAY 11 SEP Fairs / Festivals: Heritage Open Days Through to Thurs 17 Sep. BLHMS’s HODs include about 10 different events taking place in different locations in Berkhamsted. Events are FREE. Booking required by email or phone. www.berkhamstedhistory.org.uk/heritage-opendays

SATURDAY 12 SEP Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market Church Square, Tring, 9am-12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Fine produce from around the district. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk WEDNESDAY 16 SEP Business: BDCC Champagne Networking Breakfast Berkhamsted Cricket Club, 7.15-9.15am. Informal networking over champagne/ coffee. Elevator Pitch for your business, full English breakfast, speaker. www.berkhamstedchamber.co.uk SATURDAY 19 SEP Fairs / Festivals: Chilterns Heritage Festival To 4 Oct. A series of exciting events across the region, designed to celebrate the diverse heritage of the Chilterns. Booking essential. www.chilternsociety.org.uk/ heritage-festival/

of musical purpose. Berkhamsted Civic Centre 7.30pm SUNDAY 18 OCT Sport: SimplyHealth Great South Run 2020 Join Team WheelPower at the world’s leading 10-mile running event as it returns to Portsmouth, and help provide opportunities for disabled people to lead active lives. www.wheelpower.org.uk FRIDAY 23 OCT Kids: Family Camps Wendover Arm Canal, Bucks to 25 Oct. £15pp. Work outdoors and learn new skills, find out about canal restoration and heritage. Open to families with children aged 6-14. www.wrg.org.uk

SATURDAY 7 NOV Fairs / Festivals: Berkhamsted Rotary Fireworks Berkhamsted Cricket Club. Features a top-class firework display, DJ and music, bar, BBQ and other attractions. www.berkobang.org SATURDAY 3 OCT Fairs / Festivals: Tring Festival of Fire Kids: Fun Palace Virtual event and programme Charity event to raise money to support the local of free online activities. The community featuring The Fun Palace campaign promotes culture at the heart Tring School Swing Band, Rock Chorus and Sweetof community and cornbread, food and drink. community at the heart of www.tringfireworks.co.uk culture. www.dacorum.gov. uk/HYOC2020 Music: Ashley Wass Piano SATURDAY 10 OCT Great critical aclaim and frequently heard on Radio 3. Music: Reiko Fujisawa Berkhamsted Civic Centre Carducci Quartet 7.30pm A masterclass in unanimity

Forthcoming Forthcoming Forthcoming sale dates dates sale sale dates s s s s ss General Sales Sales General General Sales on Saturdays on on Saturdays Saturdays

1st December 2018

1st 2018 Sat 12th Sep2018 ’20 1stDecember December

15th December 2018

15th 2018 ’20 SatDecember 26th Sep2018 15th December 5th January 2019

th 5th 2019 5thJanuary January Sat Oct2019 ’20 19th10 January 2019 th 19th January 2019 19th January 2019 Sat Oct2019 ’20 2nd 24 February 2ndFebruary February th 2nd 2019 Sat Nov2019 ’20 16th 7 February 2019 16thFebruary February 2019 16th 2019 st Sat2nd21March Nov2019 ’20 2nd March March 2019 2nd 2019 th 16th March 2019 Dec2019 ’20 Sat 5March 16th March 16th 2019 30th March 2019 th Sat 19 Dec ’20 30th March 2019

30th March 2019 Viewing Friday Viewing Friday

prior toFriday Sale Viewing prior to Sale 9.30am 6.00pm prioruntil to Sale 9.30am until 6.00pm s s 9.30am until 6.00pm

s Fine Art,s Antique s s Fine Art,Century Antique & 20th Fine Art,Century Antique & 20th Decorative Art Sales & 20th Century Decorative Art Sales Friday Decorative th Art Sales Friday Fri8th4March Sep2019 ’20 Friday 8th March 2019 th Nov ’20 Fri Viewing Thursday 8th27 March 2019 Viewing prior Thursday to Sale We now offer live online prior to Sale Viewing Thursday 9.00am until 8.00pm bidding – please see 9.00am until 8.00pm prior tos Sale our sfor website further 9.00am until 8.00pm s s Market infoTring & viewing details. Tring Market s s Auctions Auctions Brook Street Tring Market Brook Street Tring Auctions Tring Herts Brook Street Brook Street, Tring Herts HP23 5ED Tring Herts HP23 5ED HP23 5ED 01442 826446 Herts 01442 sales@tringmarketauctions.co.uk HP23826446 5ED

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GADDESDEN PLACE RIDING FOR THE DISABLED NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT At Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled (RDA) we provide physical & emotional therapy through horse riding to children & adults with disabilities. Like many charities, due to COVID-19 we unfortunately lost our fundraising revenue and rider income. Thankfully we are now looking at a phased re-opening however, we still need as much support as possible to keep the centre running and our horses fed & cared for.

All donations gratefully recieved! www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/buy_a_bale

rs amazing supporte Thank you to our already donated! & everyone who has Regis

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BOOKS

The latest books from our local and regional authors

A Million Dreams Dani Atkins. Published by: Head of Zeus. Out now The story tracks Beth Brandon and Izzy Vaughan and their mutual families, through love and friendship. Both must make heart-wrenching decisions that will affect the rest of their adult lives. A superb read that will grip you from the first page! Dani lives near Buntingford with her husband, Siamese cat and a Border Collie. She is the author of four other bestselling novels, one of which – This Love - won the Romantic Novel of the Year Award in 2018.

Intact Sue Hampton. Published by: TSL Out now in paperback and e-book Unfulfilled 60-year old Maggie revisits her childhood passions and decides to take control of her own destiny. An entertaining and poignant story based around the arresting character of Maggie, which explores the complexities of modern-day lives and loves. We’re looking forward to the sequel. Sue Hampton lives with her husband and two children in Berkhamsted. This is her 37th novel and possibly her last (which blows our hope for a sequel!) with a view to being a full-time climate, peace and justice activist.

The Hour of Separation Katherine McMahon. Published by: W&N. Out now Christa’s father returned from the First World War to the family home in Watford with a tale of a brave Belgian woman called Fleur who helped to save his life. With the world on the brink of another war, Christa makes contact with the Belgian family, forming a complex web of relationships with Fleur’s family. A combination of romance and mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. Katherine McMahon is a former Watford resident and taught at local schools and the University of Hertfordshire.

The Girl Who Sewed Parachutes Christopher Baker. Available on Amazon. Out now Another wartime tale – this time the subject is 19-year-old Daisy, who is a seamstress in a parachute factory. But soon she is given a special job that she must keep quiet. Daisy is used to keeping secrets, until she decides to act on something she has kept to herself for a long time… A compelling tale of wartime morals, secrets and consequences that will keep you gripped until the end. Chris Baker lives in Dudswell, Berkhamsted. An astrophotographer, this is his first novel, but a book based on his images of space, Photographing the Deep Sky - Images in Space and Time, is published by White Owl Books. COMPETITION We had a record number of entries to our summer reading bundle competition, so well done to winners Moya Willis and Anne Chatterley – and happy reading!

Autumn 2020 / 47

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Many thanks Alison for forwarding the Tring & Berkhamsted magazines. These are so useful to us. I am sure our sight 15:33 impaired listeners must make good use of the information we send out. DTN (Dacorum Talking Newspapers) Audrey,

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LOCAL SERVICES

TV AERIALS

Autumn 2020 / 49

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/tring-essentialservices

Defibrillator machines in the town

centre can be found by The Baptist Church, High Street, Tring HP23 4AB. For a full list of defibrillators in the east of England. For a full list of defibrillators in the east of England, visit our website using the above link.

HEALTH 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

TRANSPORT

Bus

0300 1234050 or visit www.intalink.org.uk 50 to Aylesbury via Wendover (Sun only) 50 to Marsworth via Pitstone (Sun only) to Aylesbury (not Sun) 61 to Dunstable (not Sun) 164 to Aylesbury via Aston Clinton, Weston Turville (not Sun) 164 to Wilstone (not Sun) 194 to Chesham (Wed, one service only) 387 to New Mill (not Sun) 387 to Tring Station, Aldbury and Beech Park, Wigginton (not Sun) 500/501 to Aylesbury via Aston Clinton 500/501 to Watford via Berkhamsted, Hemel Hempstead

Community Action

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. Thursday morning every fortnight to Tescoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Tring.

Train

London Northwestern Railway 0333 3110039 or visit www.londonnorthwesternrailway.co.uk to download the operatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s app To London Euston via Berkhamsted, 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 / Tring Living

Prioritising OUR mental health

These certainly are strange times we’re living in. Now has never been a more important time to make sure you are looking after your mental health. Hector’s House is a suicide and crisis prevention and help resource charity, based in Berkhamsted – set up by the family of Hector Stringer, who took his own life at just 18 years old.

Text HECTOR to 85258 Hector’s House has a free text service for anyone in a mental health crisis. Please, if you are feeling like it is all too much, text HECTOR to 85258 to speak to us. You are never alone.

Speak to your GP Your GP can direct you to important resources that can help.

Contact The Samaritans Call 116 123. Samaritans are on hand 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to listen. Their number is free to call.You do not have to be suicidal to contact them. Talking helps. @hectorshere @house_hectors @hectorshouse.org.uk

HECTORSHOUSE.ORG.UK Registered charity no. 1165588

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