St Albans Times issue 56

ST ALBANS TIMES INDEPENDENT, INSIGHTFUL, INFORMATIVE LOCAL NEWS CITY CENTRE STREET TRADERS FACE 1,000% HIKE IN FEES

TREES FELLED IN LATEST VERULAM ESTATE ROW

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Editor's Note

Highlights 4-6 Street traders 8-11 Verulam Estate 20-21 Herts Big Growth 34-35 Interiors 36-37 Theatre review 44-46 Wine 47-50 Q&A 51 Nostalgia

The Maltings Shopping Centre manager Phil Corrigan retires this week after almost 25 years in the role. We look at the career of a local legend in this week’s issue.

It’s only February, and I’ve never been busier!

The pages of this week’s edition are packed with local news stories - the majority of which you won’t read anywhere else - and as we’re already working on material for next week it doesn’t look like things will be slowing down anytime soon.

Issues like changes to fees for street traders, the destruction of trees on the Verulam Estate, flooding in Harpenden town centre and the debate over teenagers using smartphones are sure to resonate with our readers, and providing a platform to raise awareness is very much at the heart of our remit as a local news media.

Perhaps the greatest affirmation of our work to date came at the end of last week with the revelation that the St Albans Times has been shortlisted in the Community-Orientated Business category for this year’s Mayor’s Pride Awards, and I can only thank all of those people who took the time to nominate us. It really does feel as though we’re doing something right!

Alongside news stories highlighting major issues affecting our community, we’re also keen to provide a spotlight for businesses and individuals who are doing something remarkable to change lives, as seen in this week’s features on Souvlaki City and Judith Leary-Joyce. If you know of an organisation or individual worthy of appearing in our pages please get in touch via the usual email address of editor@stalbanstimes.co.uk and we’ll endeavour to cover them.

MATT ADAMS Editor

62-65 Theatre review 66 City Diary 68 Feelings Forum 76-80 Sport

This issue's contributors include: Jon Wilson Cooper, Laura Bill, Darren McCabe, Luke Murray, Karen Snook, Emma Kosh.

Front page photo: Roger Morton Published by St Albans Media Partnership Ltd. The St Albans Times and its journalists are committed to abiding by the Editors' Code of Practice. If you have any complaints about the content of this magazine, please email editor@stalbanstimes.co.uk.

Street traders face 1,000%+ increase in pitch fees Street traders in St Albans city centre are facing a

Wider proposed changes to the market could also see a

massive increase in fees which could devastate their

move towards operating seven days a week with 10

businesses.

regular traders, although these are expected to be mainly

The mobile outlets could see their annual fees skyrocket

food stalls.

from a few hundred pounds to well over £5,000

A council spokesperson explained: “Street traders

depending how many days a week they trade.

currently operate under street trading consents. These

To compound the problem, they have only been given a

are issued under the Local Government Miscellaneous

few weeks’ notice of the proposals, with a consultation

Provisions Act 1982 and only allow us to recover our

letter sent out on February 5 for submission by Monday

costs.

(February 26).

“Currently, there is an annual fee of £552, discounted to

The move is part of a bid by SADC to tackle a massive

£419 on renewal. The pitch fees proposed for the

budget shortfall, but traders have been given no option

additional markets are £15 a day on Monday and

about whether to support or reject the measures, and

Tuesday and £30 on Thursday and Friday.”

have merely been asked to comment ahead of a meeting

There is an additional fee of £35 for Sundays when other

of the strategy and resources committee on March 7.

markets are not taking place. SADC will also charge extra

Ironically, the markets manager who can answer

for double pitches, so some traders could pay

questions about the plans is on holiday until February 28

approximately £13,000 per year.

– after the consultation period ends.

But although there is an option to increase the number of

Should the proposals be approved, they will be presented

traders during the week, this is being done without

as information to the licensing and regulatory committee

proper consultation with the businesses adjacent to their

on March 19 for implementation at the start of April.

pitches.

This means businesses who have already budgeted for a

The spokesperson explained: “Many of the same traders

year of fees at the previous rate have the choice of paying

are likely to be operating, just under a different

the massively increased figure or close up shop. To put

permission, so there has been no need for a wider

things into context, the equivalent situation would be a

consultation.

high street retailer being told with just a few weeks’

“We are in regular contact with high street shops,

notice that their rates were going up by more than 1,000

restaurants and other businesses in any case and they are

per cent.

free to approach us about any issues they may have.

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“Existing street traders will be offered pitches on additional market days before we advertise any vacancies.”

However, many existing shops and restaurants are already unhappy with the positioning of vans on Charter Market days as it restricts their visibility. The smell and general food provision infrastructure, including bins, has caused issues, as has the use of café and pub chairs and tables by customers of street food vendors.

The St Albans Times was contacted by one local businessman, who asked to remain anonymous, but said: “I could understand that the considerable investment in permanent premises through rent and rates that people pay for their shops/restaurants might be considered to be undermined by this initiative which I guess is seen as a revenue generator for SADC. “I think there is a case to say that food stalls on their own will not bring anyone additional to the city centre, it will just reduce the spending in the existing permanent premises.

“I believe businesses are generally accepting of the existing arrangements even if it could be better administered, but I can’t see a more permanent food market being accepted without considerable thought as to how it could be made to

would encourage SADC to enter and maintain a dialogue

work alongside existing businesses, which would mean having

about future ideas for any market day expansion with high

a meaningful consultation.”

street shops, businesses, and restaurants to ensure their voices

Vivien Cannon, manager of St Albans BID (Business

and issues are heard.

Improvement District), which represents all companies

“BID will continue to work with all parties to have updates on

operating in the city centre, responded to the proposals: “BID

any changes.”

IN OTHER NEWS...

Police to monitor crime and anti-social behaviour if parks not locked Plans to cease locking city centre parks to save £14,475 a year have been met with a cautious response from police.

The decision to leave Clarence Park, Vintry Gardens and the Municipal Gardens (Rose Garden) open overnight could increase anti-social behaviour, and is due to be ratified by full council at the end of the month.

It is just one of many proposals put forward to help SADC balance a multi-million pound budget shortfall for 2024-2025.

St Albans police have pledged to monitor the parks to see whether leaving them open increases anti-social behaviour (ASB) and criminal activity.

St Albans district Neighbourhood Inspector Paul Caro said: “We have consulted with the district council and will continue to work in collaboration.

“Locking and not locking the park gates each come with their own challenges. We will monitor any changes with the district council in regards to crime, ASB and public safety and a joint review will be conducted in three months’ time.

“Historically, there have been issues with crime and ASB at these locations. Some of these risk factors have now been removed and there is also increased CCTV now in place. We will review any increase in crime or ASB or crime, and if appropriate, take immediate action.”

Chris Traill, SADC strategic director for community and place delivery, said: “Most of our parks and green spaces, including Verulamium Park, are not locked at night and can be enjoyed in the evening by residents.

“Evidence suggests that leaving parks open at night deters antisocial behaviour as they are still used by dog walkers,

commuters and other law-abiding people while the police can easily patrol should the need arise.

“Parks that are locked can be a target for those intent on antisocial behaviour as it is easier to carry out dubious activities in a closed off space away from others.

“We will, of course, monitor the impact of these proposals should they be implemented, and as usual work closely with the police.”

Trees destroyed as part of bid to develop estate’s green space Prospective developers have hacked down mature trees

Resident Jenny Rose is one of many people who has been

on the Verulam Estate as part of a bid to build on

fighting prospective planning permissions and tree

pockets of green space.

felling ever since.

Saturday’s destruction of trees in Windridge Close comes

She fumed: “At the start of January on a patch of land

despite two years of calls for SADC to impose Tree

next to 24 Lindum Place we witnessed tree felling by an

Preservation Orders (TPOs) on the trees, and has

individual with no safety equipment and complete

provoked fury amidst the local community.

disregard for public safety. The police attended and

Vast swathes of what was previously thought to be public

requested the felling to stop due to the public footpaths

land were sold across the Verulam Estate in June 2021.

and lack of safety, signage and barriers.

These green lungs were crucial elements in the original

“Two days later the new owner of the land returned to

plan for the estate, providing openness - both visually

continue the destruction by pulling a tree down with a

and spatially - as an integral part of the character of the

rope attached to his car! We have been left with the

Verulam area.

unsightly piles of trees now for over five weeks.

They included one lot around Mayne Avenue, Samian

“I emailed our MP Daisy Cooper for her to come and

Gate, Flavian Close, Icknield Close, Glenum Close,

witness the destruction and to find out why more TPOs

Hadrian Close, Lindum Place, Augustus Close, Claudian

were not given and to advise the residents what is being

Place, Antonine Gate and Ermine Close, and a second in

done. Her admin responded in a nutshell saying it’s not

the vicinity of Windridge Close, Westfields, Deva Close,

her remit! Council leader Cllr Chris White has also never

Dubrae Close, Rowlatt Drive, Mayne Avenue and

responded.

Corinium Gate.

“As you can imagine, the residents were again completely

Ownership of the land should have been formerly

disheartened when tree surgeons turned up on Saturday

adopted as highways land and transferred to St Albans

to fell three trees behind an ‘illegally erected’ fence on

council around 50 years ago, but this was not carried out,

the corner of Windridge Close. We waited all morning

meaning these pockets of green space are up for grabs by

for the TPO paperwork to be rushed through but alas, no

developers.

one was available to sign the paperwork!

“Three more trees destroyed and an illegal fence still

the late 1970s to commemorate and celebrate Queen

standing since Nov 2022! SADC knew what was

Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee. What is happening now

happening on this land and have had two years to sort

seems a very shabby way of remembering her and her

TPOs.

life of public service. Surely we can do better than this?”

“Our council has been far too slow, uncommunicative

Ward councillor Edgar Hill said: “I share residents’ anger

and to be honest a complete embarrassment. So much

and concern at the events of [Saturday]. Ward councillors

for supporting constituents. Lies and lip service more

have been called away from their families over

like!”

Christmas, at weekends, and at the most inconvenient

Timothy Beecroft, chair of Verulam Residents

hours, times purposely selected by those concerned to

Association, responded to the recent vandalism: “The

cause maximum inconvenience.

destruction of these much-loved trees has only added to

”Whilst attending on Saturday, ward councillors were

the frustration and anger felt across the Verulam Estate

able to get the council’s enforcement officer and tree

and beyond at what is happening to our green spaces.

officers to attend the site and we were able to delay work

“The delay in getting Tree Protection Orders more

whilst fighting to establish if we could get a TPO in place.

widely used across the estate has been an issue for far too

Sadly, our efforts were in vain. Possibly given more time,

long. And now we are starting to see the sad

we could have prevented at least one of the trees from

consequences of that failure.

being felled.

“National guidance on Tree Protection Orders says that

“Ward councilors have called in all the relevant planning

they can be served not just on individual trees, but also

applications so, they may be scrutinized by committee

on groups of trees if their removal or changes to them

and thus far no applications to build have been approved.

would have a significant impact on the local

A full review of the estate has been promised prioritizing

environment and its enjoyment by the public.

TPOs for trees that qualify, and remain vulnerable.

“How can anybody sensibly argue that what we are

“We continue to stress the urgency of the situation, whilst

seeing now isn’t having a significant impact?

working within the bounds of the legalities of the

“Many of the threatened trees were, we know, planted in

privately owned sites."

Before and after the trees were chopped down in Windridge Close.

Chris Traill, SADC strategic director for community and place delivery said: “If works are being carried out on private land, as in this case, the district council will not usually be involved. However, we had a team of people working on this matter over the weekend at various points, including two officers on site, as we could see that it was of concern to local residents, and we wanted to help if we had the powers to do so.

“But the council only has legal powers to protect trees on private land if there are Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) in place giving them statutory protection. Unfortunately, none of the trees on that parcel of land were suitable for such orders.

"It is important to note that only trees deemed to have a high public amenity value can be considered for protection by a TPO. They must also be in good condition, have a life expectancy of 20+ years and ideally not be growing in a location where overly repetitive pruning is required to clear structures or a road.

"We are reviewing other parcels of land on the Verulam Estate to see if there are trees there that would be suitable for TPOs. There is also a continuing investigation by our Enforcement Team in relation to the erection of the fence.

"The council does not have legal powers to stop works on private land. If works are being carried out by a company or contractor and the necessary health and safety measures are not being followed, that is a matter for the Health and Safety Executive."

IN OTHER NEWS...

County vows to tackle flooded road after three years of problems

After three winters of extreme flooding, residents of a small village lane can look forward to the problem being resolved.

Homeowners in Longmead Lane in Ayot St Lawrence have endured a "river" of rainwater rushing past their houses every time there is a deluge.

One resident, who asked not to be named but is in her eighties, said: "It's been really bad for at least the last three winters, despite four reports to Herts county council, and nothing ever happens.

"There's a drain outside in the road which is completely blocked with detritus, but nobody comes out to clear it, even when they resurfaced the road. We were told it was a different department carrying out that work so they couldn't help."

Just before Christmas the resident had to call out an ambulance for her husband, but it was unable to reach the house because of the flooding so the crew of paramedics had to wade through the water to reach them.

"Just recently a district nurse became stuck in it. She called the police to help but they couldn't reach her so she had to wait for a breakdown truck. I know there are far worse cases, with some poor people who have their houses flooded, but something really needs to be done about this.

"The rain water breaks up the road, causing potholes, it destroys the verges, and the lights in our drive need replacing every time it rains as the water blows the fuses when it washes up our drive."

But after being contacted by the St Albans Times, the county council has revealed work will be taking place to resolve the issue.

A spokesperson said: "We are aware of the flooding on Longmead Lane and our drainage team will be visiting the site on 1 March to carry out CCTV surveys of the drainage system and clear out the gullies and ditches as necessary.

We have an annual programme of cleaning out highway drains, however when there is extremely heavy rain of the sort we have seen recently, drainage systems can be temporarily overwhelmed."

Photos by John Andrews.

Call to book: 01727 838003

Authorities ‘washing their hands’ over Harpenden floods Harpenden businesses have been forced to instal flood

life issue and needs to be treated with the utmost

defences at their own expense to prevent rainwater

urgency. I have already witnessed an elder of our

from bursting into their properties every time there’s a

community with a walking frame up to her shins in

deluge.

flowing water as she tried to use the pedestrian crossing

Molasses House art gallery and News 4 U newsagent in

when flooded. When a child or elder falls down the open

Station Road have both resigned themselves to taking

storm drain because the backed-up water pressure has

matters into their own hands after persistent failings by

lifted the cover from its seat the authorities will have

Herts county council to act.

significant issues to manage, not just flooding.

The problem stems from a double drain in the street

“The intransigence of those in authority regarding this

which seems unable to discharge rainwater into the main

matter I find both remarkable and depressing. Everyone

sewage system, instead exploding through a nearby

hides behind each other or excuses and simply places the

pavement manhole cover and rushing down the road in

matter in the 'shoulder shrugging box'. It is not

torrents, leaving a dangerous hole in the pavement

acceptable.

hidden by water.

“I have no recourse against anyone or any authority

Despite months of emails and phone calls to HCC and

other to sit by and watch my business get flooded,

relevant utility companies, Molasses House owner Barrie

pedestrians forced to walk down the middle of the road

Woolston is frustrated by the lack of action.

during moderate rain or find manhole covers unseated

He said: “We are living with the constant threat of

leaving the drain fully exposed for someone to fall into!”

flooding which is totally unacceptable. This is not a

Harpenden MP Bim Afolami is among those in authority

recent issue, it has been going on for years and there is a

who have failed to act to rectify the situation, despite

complete lack of interest on behalf of multiple parties

pleas for intervention from Barrie.

and individuals to resolve. It is not possible to operate a

According to HCC, Harpenden High Street was built on a

business when one is under constant threat of flooding

dry river bed, and water comes down Station Road to

from moderate and/or persistent rain. This is a danger to

join the drainage system there.

Thames Water have checked their drains and ensured the water is free-flowing, as Barrie explained: “The engineer who attended the site confirmed the pipes were clear but revealed the issue is caused by the 10cm pipe which joins the main drainage pipe running down the centre of Station Road.

“Due to the lack of natural drainage caused by the over-development of Station Road, poor management of drains and lack of intent, willingness or financial ability to resolve the matter we once again face a flood threat.”

County councillor Phil Bibby, executive member for highways and transport, has refused to accept the drains are at fault.

He told Barrie: “The reality is that there is a low likelihood of any significant infrastructure changes, especially in the short to medium term, i.e. no magic wand, I regret to say…

“With the topography of the area, much of which used to be a river, and development over the years reducing soakaway potential, it looks as though the flood risk is something we need to manage, rather than have a cure for.

“Even fully functioning drains will be overwhelmed by the heavy rain we are now experiencing, but I have asked officers to check they are on the appropriate cleansing frequencies, with reports of blocked drains responded to by adding them to our dig-out programme. We will remind SADC of their obligation to sweep the

Images provided by Molasses House to illustrate the problem, including floodwaters inside the shop (above) and the burst manhole (below).

streets, to reduce the risk of drains becoming blocked…”

He said HCC’s Flood Risk Management team has committed to look into establishing a flood action group to support Harpenden residents and businesses to become more resilient and facilitate better communications.

County council leader Richard Roberts also refused to accept any responsibility for the issue, passing the buck to the district council.

In correspondence sent to Barrie Woolston on his behalf, he said: “I am sorry to hear of the problem you are facing with regards to drainage in your area. However (and you allude to it in your communication) ‘development’, or to put it another way local planning, and its many facets, are the statutory responsibility of your local district council, rather than Hertfordshire County Council.

“Could I request that you direct your observations to that body? And I hope that you can achieve a satisfactory resolution.”

Barrie responded: “Absolving yourself of responsibility simply because I mentioned a reference to ‘development’ I find incredulous. It is very clear to me and my neighbours, no public authority is prepared to take any responsibility for the flooding issues we face.

“After almost 12 months of considered communication with every public authority within Hertfordshire, it is very clear to me no action will be taken by those responsible, so I will reflect on my next steps to ensure this matter remains front of mind of the statutory bodies with responsibility for such matters.”

(Above) The blocked drains pictured on Wednesday after overnight rainfall.

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire County Council told the

But Harpenden North town councillor Richard Scott does

Times: “Unfortunately the causes of the flooding problem in

not believe enough is being done to resolve the problem,

Station Road are a lot more complicated than a blocked

rather than tackle the consequences.

drain.

“Flash flooding at the bottom of lengthy roads such as

“As Harpenden’s Lower High Street is built on the course of

Station Road are challenging to manage, but it appears that

a dried-up river bed, unfortunately water naturally flows

even short bursts of heavy rain are now leading to serious

down the hill on Station Road towards the High Street.

incidents.

“Normally this isn’t a problem, but when we get sudden

“Maintaining robust drainage systems are the responsibility

extremely heavy rainfall, as we have recently, the drainage

of the Conservative-led Hertfordshire County Council. It is

system can be temporarily overwhelmed as the water cannot

disappointing that the Conservative leader of HCC has

drain away fast enough.

repeatedly failed to address the serious drainage issues on

“We do regularly clean the drains, and we have looked into

Station Road.

the flash flooding problems at this location in some detail,

“These failures have led to flooding and property damage to

but unfortunately the geography of the area means that

much-loved local Harpenden businesses on Station Road

there is no practical way to completely prevent this kind of

including News 4 U and the Molasses House gallery.

flash flood when there is sudden and extremely heavy rain.

“HCC’s management of Harpenden’s gulleys and drains has

“We are taking this issue seriously, and we have

been inadequate for many years. They do not even have a

commissioned the National Flood Forum to work with us,

complete map of their drainage system.

residents, businesses, Thames Water and other stakeholders

“Liberal Democrats county councillors representing

to fully understand the impacts of the flooding and work

Harpenden recently proposed new investment in

through what can be done to manage the flood risk in this

maintenance and infrastructure but this was rejected in early

area.”

February by the Conservative administration.”

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A view from the footpath from Burydell Lane to Hedges Farm, looking south towards Radlett - this area will become warehouses . It also shows the area nearest the camera cleared of trees and hedges by Segro contractors.

Judge casts doubts over county sale of rail freight land The campaign to stop a huge freight terminal being

Herts CC sold 300 acres of Green Belt on the former

built on Green Belt in St Albans received a huge boost

Radlett airfield to freight company Segro in June. Fight

this week after a judge ruled that a legal challenge

the Freight claim the sale was flawed because a series of

against the sale of the land will be decided in court later

covenants show the land, bought by HCC in the mid-

this year.

1980s for £1, should be permanent open space.

The campaign group Save St Albans: Fight the Freight

A judge will now hear verbal evidence from Save St

had argued that there were serious flaws in the way Herts

Albans: Fight the Freight, HCC and Segro at a date

county council sold the former Radlett Aerodrome. After

sometime in the summer.

considering written evidence from Fight the Freight,

Segro have already started work on the site but have

HCC and the developers Segro, Mrs Justice Thornton has

angered residents after twice reneging on a commitment

ruled that there is a case to answer. If the court rules in

to set up a consultation group to keep local people

favour of the campaigners, the sale of the land will be

informed about the development.

overturned.

“Both HCC and Segro have treated local people with total

“This is a really important decision,” said one of the Fight

contempt, “said Cllr Webb. “Herts ignored all the

the Freight campaign leaders Cllr Nuala Webb. “We have

evidence we gave them about why this sale was flawed.

long argued that this area of Green Belt has been

Segro have started work, even though the development

designated as permanent open space and that HCC had

could be blocked but won’t talk to the people who live

no right to sell it for development. The council ignored

nearby as they had promised to do.”

us and tried to argue that our case had no legal merit but

Save St Albans: Fight the Freight are stepping up their

Mrs Justice Thornton’s decision shows that they are

campaign and need to raise money to pay legal fees. “Mrs

wrong.

Justice Thornton ruled that our submission comes under

“We knew we had a strong moral argument about the

the Aarhus convention which caps the amount of costs

way the sale was conducted. This decision shows we have

that could potentially be awarded against us should we

a strong and valid legal argument as well.”

lose. But we still need to raise £25,000 to fund this next

and final challenge,“ said Cllr Webb.

“A lot of people locally and at County Hall thought the fight was over and the freight terminal was unstoppable. But this ruling shows very clearly that it is not the case, and that this unwanted and unnecessary development can be blocked once and for all.”

A spokesman for Hertfordshire County Council said: “We continue to be confident that the sale of the land in Radlett to Segro for use as a strategic fright rail interchange was undertaken in accordance with all due processes.

A spokesperson for Segro said: “The law in the UK has provisions for a judge to review the way public bodies make decisions and we are fully aware of the judicial review application challenging Hertfordshire County Council’s sale of land in Radlett to Segro. As an interested party, we have already provided initial representations to the judge, and now we have more clarity on the next steps we will be pleased to contribute further evidence to the hearing once scheduled. This does not change our current position and we will not be commenting comment further while the process is ongoing.”

Work on clearing land for the proposed rail freight terminal has already devastated idyllic countryside as seen below.

‘MR MALTINGS’ RETIRES FROM SHOPPING CENTRE AFTER ALMOST A QUARTER OF A CENTURY

It was in March 2018 that Phil Corrigan finally left the sleeping village of Aston Abbotts in Buckinghamshire and moved to St Albans. He had already been manager of The Maltings Shopping Centre since September 12 1999, and was to remain in the role for almost 25 years.

But this week the local legend is gracefully entering retirement and passing the baton over to Richard Marrett, who has been operations manager at the centre since September 2022.

Working with Phil for the past two decades is centre marketing manager Liz Pearce, who accepted our request to honour the man many have come to know as ‘Mr Maltings’.

“Phil has not only been a joy to work with but has also become a dear friend.

“He has always become embedded in the local community wherever he is living, swapping from being founder and organiser of AstonBury Music Festival and editor of The Chronicle, Aston Abbotts’ parish magazine, to a real St Albans hero!

“Since moving to St Albans, Phil has been involved in everything community.

“He supported the Community Hero Awards which ran from 2015 to 2019, and was instrumental in the Maltings Art Prize, a local schools art initiative which has gained

momentum since its launch in 2019. He was a member of St Albans District Chamber of Commerce and was one of the founder members of St Albans BID (Business Improvement District). Phil is currently a board director at radio station MIX 92.6, and he may become more involved in this non-profit company following his retirement. We may even hear him on air!”

Liz was happy to share some special memories of her time working with Phil, some of which he might not have wanted to see in the pages of this news magazine!

“At the St Albans Chamber of Commerce St George’s Day lunch in April 2017 both Christopher Place and The Maltings Shopping Centre bid to sponsor Guide Dogs puppies in a charity auction. Something Phil didn’t remember much about, which may have had something to do with Champagne, and it came as a bit of a shock the following day when he received a call giving him the news that he’d won a dog! He named the labrador golden retriever pup ‘Malty’ and he went on to become a fully qualified Guide Dog. “In October 2022 Phil was treated to a Spitfire flight, courtesy of Boultbee LDN, owner of The Maltings Shopping Centre.

“He said at the time that it was ’an absolute thrill and privilege to fly out of Goodwood in this 1944 Spitfire today - I even got to fly it for a while. And you get to wear a lifebelt and a parachute!’ Needless to say, he loved it.”

Liz said Phil’s lifelong loves are music, art, history, galleries, museums, fast cars, and great food, Oh and of course – Champagne!

She elaborated: “Phil has a great passion for music, it is a massive part of his life, and always has been, nurtured initially by his late uncle and good friend, Johnny. Phil has seen countless iconic bands over the years from concerts in Hyde Park and Eel Pie Island in the ’60s and ’70s to Cadogan Hall and more recently Ronnie Scott’s, and everything in between! The enormous list of bands that Phil has enjoyed is enviable.”

Then there is Barcelona.

“Ah… Barcelona, in Phil’s own words ‘I have yet to see Barcelona without a hangover’. Phil has spent many hours feeling the thrill of the F1 racetrack in many countries but his favourite by far is Barcelona, or as he put it: ‘Warm and sunny, great F1 testing, hangover from hell!’ Phil is also a member of Goodwood and has spent many hours over many years enjoying the cars and atmosphere.”

Liz added: “Phil has remained great friends with his old school buddies, who are very special to him. The gang meet regularly and are always there for each other, no matter what. A rare and very special thing.

“His favourite restaurants are Dylan’s in St Albans and Randall & Aubin in Soho. If he’s not in one, you’ll probably find him in the other!

“Phil loves London. He grew up with the great city as his backyard and playground. He spends as much time as he can in London and as a member of the numerous museums and galleries, spends many hours immersing himself in art and culture.

“Enjoy your retirement Phil. Do more of the stuff you love: music, art, culture, food, fast cars… and fizz!”

Oaklands College public footpaths set to re-open soon Just weeks after the St Albans Times highlighted the

“This will be managed on a case-by-case basis in

ongoing problems surrounding restricted footpath

collaboration with Hertfordshire County Council and

access at Oaklands College’s Smallford campus, it seems

communicated to our neighbours, students, and staff

they will soon be reopened for public use.

with as much notice as possible.

Routes between between Sandpit Lane and Hatfield Road

“The date they will be reopened is being finalised

providing a vital link from the Alban Way to Jersey Farm

between the college and HCC and will be communicated

have been closed to the public since last year.

in due course.

The links are bridleways known as North and South

“The college is aiming to reopen the pathways prior to

Drive and the footpath known as East Drive, all of which

the end of the current closure agreement which runs

traverse Oaklands College grounds.

until the end of March.

Although an alternative footpath was created, it was

“As the current phase of development is scheduled to

largely impassable due to muddy conditions.

finish by October 2024, the college will be applying for

But now the college has announced that the original

an extension beyond the existing agreement, limited to

routes will be reopened imminently.

the temporary closure of the footpaths, only when major

Claire Dolan, Deputy Principal (Strategy, Partnership &

works are being undertaken and where it is in in the

Business Development) revealed: “The college is excited

interest of public safety.

to announce that most of the heavy building work has

“It is very unfortunate that we have had to close the

now taken place towards our new Construction Hub

North Drive and a section of our alternative woodland

which will be ready for students as planned in the

walk, due to the contamination from the neighbouring

autumn term of 2024.

housing development.

“Therefore, the footpaths that connect the campus will

“This is not related to any of the building works taking

be reopened for the vast majority of the time, closed

place on our campus. We are working rapidly with the

only when building works dictate that for health and

concerned parties so North Drive can be reopened safely,

safety reasons, relating to the construction works, they

as soon as possible. We are sorry to be in this unforeseen

must be closed.

position.

“We would like to thank those members of the public

“But questions remain over whether the existing routes

who are supporters of the college and our mission to

will be restored to their previous status and if the new

transform lives. We would ask that as the pathways

route will be a dedicated bridleway rather than merely a

reopen that members of the community champion and

substitute for the existing rights of way.

advocate for the college by reporting any public

Cyclist Mike Hartley, who has campaigned for the routes

inappropriate behaviour and stick to the designated

to reopen, said: “I’m very happy that Oaklands have

routes. We will continue use of the popular alternative

finally seen sense on reopening the Oaklands bridleway

pathways and will continue works on these to make them

and footpaths, returning a vital off road route to the St

even better for the public.|

Albans Cycle route network. However given Oaklands’

“It has always been the college’s intention to strengthen

responses during the closure debacle I'll only believe it

our community relationships and extend the

when I can ride to the Alban Way on my commute.

opportunities to open the campus for community

“I look forward to Oaklands’ stated intent to listen more

involvement. Throughout 2023 there were several

to the community, which I hope is a lesson learned from

community events including the annual Oaklands

their failings during this problem. The new route around

Summer Festival, charity cycle rides, Lambing Weekend

the edge of the campus, once properly finished and

and the inaugural St Albans Foodies Festival which saw

dedicated as a right of way will be a good addition to the

more than 10,000 visitors come to the campus. Not to

existing routes for walkers, cyclists and equestrians.

mention open days through the year, sporting activities

“I would like to thank Herts county council Rights of

for all ages and the opening of the Oaklands Zoo every

Way team, Jim Watson from Marshalswick North

week to the public. In 2024 the college will be

Residents Association and county councillor John Hale

introducing several additional community events to

for their untiring efforts in showing how valuable this

build on the significant number of visitors to the college

route is to Oaklands and the St Albans Times for

last year.”

publicity to St Albans’ residents.”

Meanwhile, Marshalswick North Residents Association

closures, we would not have an objection, provided the

says there are still issues on the Smallford campus site.

conditions for closure are fully stated in the TTRO, are

A spokesperson said: “The college has advised that most

vetted in advance and enforced by HCC.”

of the heavy construction works have now been

MNRA insists Oaklands must clearly define within the

completed and, in the future, the college will only

TTRO that:

require the public rights of way to be closed for safety

1. Any closure is only implemented if the Construction

grounds for limited periods.

(Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015)

“The college also states that it will be making an

construction phase plan prepared by the relevant

application to extend the current Temporary

contractor substantiated the need for the closure.

Traffic Restriction Order (TTRO) which expires at the

2. Closures are for the minimum time when construction

end of March 2024. They state that the application makes

works are being undertaken.

it clear that the routes will only be closed when necessary

3. Closures are applied to all users, not just members of

to protect the safety of path users and will remain open

the public.

at all other times.

4. Routes are opened as soon as it is safe to do so and are

“This would appear to be good news for all the users of

available out of normal construction times, in particular

the public rights of way who have been denied access to

at weekends and evenings.

the paths since August 2023.

The spokesperson added: “If the college are to regain the

“However, even after the issue of this update, the college

trust of the local community, they need to adhere to

have not provided the same information to their security

their commitment to keep the paths open to all users at

guards. Consequently, throughout the last weekend, the

all times when necessary construction works are

guards were still denying public access to all routes. This

not being undertaken.

appears to be contrary to their stated commitment.

“They should also be notified a set period in advance to

“We can all understand that during major construction

the local community via residents associations, local

works, there may be a need to occasionally close public

councillor representatives etc.

rights of way for safety reasons. Were the college seeking

“MNRA will be working with all the other residents’

a further unrestricted path closure as local people have

associations, groups and individuals representing local

endured for the last five months, MNRA would object

people who have been making their views known since

strongly to the extension.

the right of way closures took effect to achieve a

“If, as stated, the college are only seeking very occasional

satisfactory outcome.”

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‘The government today is still talking about ‘immigration’ as its primary agenda. They mean people of colour. Getting rid of them.’

The awestruck faces of children Priest and Jamaica

I’ve visited a lot of museums in my time but never have I

stared up at a huge map of the Caribbean while their

been so immersed in any exhibition like this one.

grandad Naran McCallum talked about the 8,000-mile

Before entering however, a member of museum staff

journey he made at just eight years of age. It was too

told me I was forbidden to take in a lidded cup of coffee.

much for me not to take the opportunity to have an

As I threw the full cup in the bin and wandered up the

impromptu chat with the three.

stairs I was once again struck by the stupid things this

I was visiting the Becoming Us: African Caribbean St

country focuses on while the people that actually matter

Albans exhibition, curated by LeeAnna’s Wish CIC and

are overlooked. As if not taking my coffee in would

Active Lifestyles. It captures the experiences of the

somehow make this horrible miscarriage of justice any

passengers of the HMT Empire Windrush, which arrived

better.

in the UK in 19948, bringing with it many immigrants

One of the features of Becoming Us are listening posts

from what were then known as the West Indies, and

where you can hear recorded voices of St Albans people

shares the stories of those individuals who settled in St

revealing their personal histories.

Albans both from that ship and on subsequent journeys.

Some of them explained how they came to the UK,

The exhibition, at St Albans Museum + Gallery, is the

arriving here as children by plane or boat, dressed up

accumulation of passion, hard work, dreams and

very smartly in suits as that was their perception of how

conversations which have been taking place for years.

British people dressed. Their older voices sounded

Naran, who is part of what has come to be known as the

broken but strong and the emotion as they spoke was

Windrush generation, openly and emotionally shared his

powerful to hear.

personal stories of coming to Britain and growing up in

People shared how they thought the streets would be

the country during the 1950s and ‘60s.

cleaner and the houses would be nicer. They had not

One of the most poignant things he said was that while

anticipated living in one tiny room. One woman

the Post Office Horizon scandal is both shocking and

describes it as “an eye- opener” having seen photographs

awful and everybody has been moved by it since the

from Britain that made her think the “streets were paved

television drama was shown, victims of the Windrush

with gold”.

scandal - in which many Black people who built modern

She remembers the shock of having to share bathrooms

Britian were detained and/or deported - are still waiting

and kitchens in contrast to her previous experiences in

to be compensated for their horrendous treatment.

the Caribbean.

Naran McCallum and his grandchildren.

Many of the Windrush generation worked in public

I learn that many people who settled here to work and

services becoming the backbone of St Albans’ former

who contributed huge amounts to the St Albans we know

mental health and learning disability hospitals, which

today were initially turned away by landlords because of

were the largest long-stay hospitals in Europe.

their skin colour. It shocks me that it was only in our

A reconstructed 1970s West Indian front room, featuring

recent history that this explicit racism was prevalent.

original ornaments and furniture, forms part of the

Signs such as “no blacks, no dogs, no Irish”… seem almost

exhibition and the orange swirls of the mat reminded me

unfathomable to my 21st century mind.

of a carpet I had in my lounge as a child.

The cold was a shock too. One woman told the story of

Naran showed his grandchildren the small black and

not having seen snow before and her classmates laughing

white television and explained that this room would not

at her. Imagine coming from a beautiful sunny country

have been accessible to the children most of the time,

to the grey misery of England? They shared how the

and that the door would only be open on special

gloominess had not been what they had anticipated when

occasions for visitors.

they were sold the dream of coming to the UK. I

I asked him if that would have also been the case in his

considered how this must be true for a lot of immigrants

homeland and he said it wasn’t the case, but a certain

today too.

sense of pride emerged once people had built up a home

Having overcome so many changes and working so hard

for themselves here in England and that they wanted to

in often low paid and demanding jobs which were often

protect it. The living room also provided a sanctuary

shunned by English-born citizens, in 2018 many

from the racial prejudice which could found in

Windrush immigrants were faced with the threat of

restaurants, clubs and pubs at the time

deportation back to a country that did not feel like home,

I walked down a corridor which features a whole wall of

where they had no support, no work, nowhere to live, no

stunning portraits by photographer Stephanie Belton: a

friends or family. And for what? Why?

powerful collection of local faces and names who have

Naran spoke emotively about this: “A lot of people died.

been affected by Windrush in some way. Some who have

They were told they didn’t belong here. They did the

travelled here, some who were born here. Many faces I

jobs people over here didn’t want after the war.

recognise. I see a powerful and possibly painful story

“The government today is still talking about

behind each portrait, yet a sense of pride and keenness to

‘immigration’ as its primary agenda. They mean people

share within a collective piece.

of colour. Getting rid of them.”

Parts of the Becoming Us exhibition include items loaned for displnica Caribbean families, and photos of influential Black people from within the local community.

He spoke to me about prejudices faced on a daily basis by

These are the conversations I have had in the past which

Black people: “I used to get pulled over by police all the

have helped me to be more aware of the actualities faced.

time when I was younger. I was the only Black boy in my

I want to know. I want to hear. If I am not part of the

school when I arrived at Camp School. Things are better

solution then I part of the problem and that is why we

today but we still face prejudice.”

must seek out experiences such as this exhibition in

I sometimes think I can comprehend what it is like to be

order to be useful and active allies.

part of a minority group – I remember feeling very different and misunderstood being an identical twin

Cottonmill-based community group LeeAnna’s Wish

growing up, for example, when everybody else didn’t

was recently shortlisted as a finalist in the Inclusive

have another human their age who looked and sounded

Communities Award Category in this year’s Mayor’s

exactly like them.

Pride Awards which recognises individuals and projects

But racism runs far deeper. The subtleties, the wanting-

that unite people of different backgrounds and abilities.

to-challenge but not wanting to feel like a trouble-maker

Speaking at the preview of the Becoming Us museum

or to perpetuate a stereotype, the ignorance woven

exhibition director Antoinette Strachan said: “We are so

through most of our society because of the inequality of

proud to be nominated once again by our community.

our judicial system, social injustices such as poor housing

Community is the heartbeat of our work and at the core

and lack of educational support, the fact that if you are

of our every act we do.

black you are three times more likely to

“Thank you for your belief in us and recognising us

be put in prison (Census 2021).

once again.”

Emma Kosh is an Interior Designer and award winning Designer on CBBC's The Dengineers. Emma has a passion for creating one of a kind Interiors and Empowering people to celebrate their uniqueness through design.

She joins us to share her thoughts on Home and Interior Style.

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE BELTON

PREPARE FOR SPRING

It is the most wonderful time of year for me as the signs of spring have started to pop into view. The crocuses and the daffodils popping up and the blossom appearing on the trees. As things start to wake up and be seen in a brighter light you may have noticed all the things that need sorting around your home, this week I am here to inspire you to get busy and make some fun changes for spring.

DISCO ANYONE?

Anyone who knows me, knows that I have a mantra, ‘more is more’ - so when the colourful wreaths and twinkling lights disappear from my front door post Christmas everything takes a turn for the mundane. I have decided that my mission for the next few weeks is to make some small changes to spread the joy of spring around the home In my home the sun rises at the front and sets at the back which means we benefit from the most stunning morning sunlight streaming through our windows at the beginning of the day. It is breathtaking especially when the skies are candy floss pink and fluffy.

To make the most of this light from the brightest source I have bought a disco ball, I have positioned it right by the window so that the light can be reflected in tiny fragments all around the room. It is already giving me joy and the sun hasn’t even really kicked in yet.

ALL YEAR ROUND COLOUR If you’re like me and like your greenery low maintenance, go fake. Faux is also great for all-weather doorstep greenery. There are so many great imitations on the market and they add instant colour and texture. Use them in planters or cover unsightly things with fake living wall panels.

Check out ‘Blooming Artificial’ for a good selection of plants. Make your own wreath or check out @uniquequirkywreaths on Instagram for a local faux wreath maker. (Wreath pictured 365wreathsUK from Etsy £75) @emmakoshinteriors @ownithome

www.emmakosh.co.uk www.ownithome

PREPARE FOR SPRING WARM WELCOME

If you’ve ever driven down Marshal’s Drive you may have seen the house with the Barbie Pink door and noticed that some people in St Albans are making bold moves when it comes to front door colour. Why not choose your favourite colour and paint your door?

Imagine the wash of happiness you’d feel when returning home, I painted my door peacock blue and I’ve never regretted it.

Could you paint the inside of your porch like the picture on the right - making the front door feel like an extra room to dress with greenery and lights.

What does your door mat say about you? A new fresh mat can add colour, pattern or even warn visitors about your antisocial dog, there is so much choice. A new mat is an inexpensive way to add colour and a refresh.

REMOVE THE GUNK I love green but not when it comes in the form of that green gunk that seems to set in on every garden item over the UK winters. My sister in law Anita drew my attention to a product called ‘wet and forget’ Wet & Forget removes contaminants such as mould, lichen, moss, and algae without using harsh methods. It is suitable for cleaning a variety of surfaces such as artificial grass, patios, driveways, tarmac and more.

They have various grades and strengths to suit so it would be wise to use a product like this now to prepare your outdoor spaces for the better weather- get it from wetandforget.co.uk or via amazon. You just wet...and forget.

It could save you a lot of jet washing hassle in the coming months - you're welcome!

WORK WITH US E M B A R K I N G

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contact@emmakosh.co.uk

THEATRE REVIEW

ST ALBANS GANG SHOW DEBORAH HEATH CELEBRATES ALL THAT IS GREAT ABOUT THE ANNUAL TEEN SHOWCASE

They say variety is the spice of life and this year’s St Albans Gang Show proved this by celebrating not only diversity in their Scouting and Guiding cast, but their ability to plan, rehearse and deliver a fantastically varied revue show.

In the days of music hall, an audience could expect to see a series of “acts” ranging from magic, to bawdy songs and comic skits. The Gang Show always brings this formula into the 21st century by sandwiching large-cast popular music and dance medleys, with small group acts such as punbased sketches to singing showcases. I was very impressed with the overall structure of the show - there was simply something for everyone and no time to get bored!

With approximately 100 young people performing, it must have been no mean feat organising a rehearsal schedule, let alone deciding on acts that would showcase all this young talent.

I take my hat off to producer Hermonie Drew and her creative team for balancing the programme so well. It is testament to the spirit of the Scouting movement that this show is completely run by volunteers from technicians, to the costume and prop team to front of house. All adults were there to give the kids this marvellous opportunity and it was touching to see.

I cannot possibly comment on every section of this show and would like to commend every single cast member for their performing skills and “have a go” attitude. The beautiful harmonising in ‘Go Your Own way’ was an early high point for me. Also in Act I, I loved the Cluedo-themed medley including Shaggy’s ‘It Wasn’t Me’ and Sophie Ellis-Bexter’s ‘Murder on the Dancefloor’.

The creative way in which songs had been connected via a theme throughout the show was impressive, although in this case it would have been even more brilliant to end with a song that told us who the murderer was! The set design here was outstanding as indeed it was for the rest of the show.

The bird medley opened Act II in a spectacular fashion.

The costumes were not only bold, and bright but the manner in which the performers employed them during choreographed sections was breathtaking. The flamingo head-pieces on the dancers’ hands was a masterstroke, as were the fan peacock tails.

Last year, I felt there could be more comic songs and I was pleased to see at least three in this show. A comic song really highlights a singer’s diction skills – without them, the joke is lost.

There was no such worry here as they were all expertly executed, for example in ‘Hats, Hats, Hats’. I was not alone in the audience in enjoying not only the IKEA song but the sketch leading up to it which was performed with great vocal clarity and comic timing.

The police station sketch which was crammed full of lovely puns was another highlight for me.

A better resolution would have elevated it higher but it was still really enjoyable. Another audience favourite was the English Class scene, especially “I have a very small vocabulary” which was frequently repeated with an increasing laughter reward each time.

There weren’t many good things to come out of the musical ‘Grease 2’ and certainly the song ‘Reproduction’, although hilarious, would have been a tad inappropriate here, but I was glad to see ‘Who’s that Guy’ being used in a new way.

Lanyard guy and his team of admiring Pink Ladies were very amusing.

Often overlooked, I cannot finish this review without praising the superb live band.

They turned their hands to everything from jazz to hip hop with skill and professionalism. I am still unclear as to whether the musicians were parents, leaders or friends of the Scouting community but they did a great job.

Going forward it would be even better to see musically gifted Scouts and Guides being given the opportunity to be in the band too. Singers were celebrated a lot in the show but showcasing young instrumentalists would have been the icing on the cake.

I enjoyed this show tremendously for its energy, jolliness, and imaginative programming. I am sure that if you were watching as part of the Scout and Guiding family, you would also feel the warmth of a great community which is completely based on goodwill.

What a marvellous experience this was for the young performers and I send out a big thank you to all who made it possible and a hearty pat on the back to the multi-talented and dynamic cast.

Well done!

All photos by Roger Morton.

The family restaurant giving something back to St Albans At the heart of the ethos of Fleetville Greek restaurant

These supplies include white oregano sourced from a

Souvlaki City is a desire for customers to feel they have

village outside Athens, plus Greek-produced pita bread,

not only been welcomed into the owners’ home, but are

olive oil, feta cheese, wines and beers, all with the aim of

enjoying a meal at their table whilst feeling part of the

capturing the genuine flavours of their homeland.

extended family.

Before leaving Greece, Giorgo worked in the security

In fact family is another driver for Giorgo and Maria

systems industry, but had always harboured a desire to

Nasso, as not only was one of the reasons behind them

create an authentic Greek restaurant where he would

moving from Greece to the UK being to give their

enjoy eating. Souvlaki City captures that vision and

children better opportunities, but they also embrace their

bottles it.

staff as members of that same close-knit family.

“The recipes all came from my grandmother, who lived

The couple moved to the UK in 2017, collected the keys

to the age of 96, and reflect my real passion for food. It’s

to the Hatfield Road restaurant in March 208, and

like cooking at home. We don’t use chefs because they

opened their doors for business in January 2019. After a

have their own ideas about the dishes and would change

successful first year, they had just started working with a

the recipes. I want food as I like it, and if it’s not good I

renowned takeaway delivery service when the pandemic

can’t serve it.

hit, a move which saved them through the various

“We have a team who have been with us for more than

lockdowns.

four years, and are happy working here. It’s a real family

“It was very hard for everybody, not just us,” Giorgo says

feel.”

gracefully. “We source our meats from local farmers, but

Giving something back to their loyal customers - many

80 per cent of our ingredients and supplies come direct

of whom are neighbours from the immediate area – as

from Greece.”

well as the wider St Albans community, has always been

reflected in the way the restaurant has supported local

“We’re surviving, but it’s tough with the energy crisis and

schools like Fleetville and Mandeville with vouchers for

the cost of supplies, and we need more time to establish

raffles, or their incredible generosity helping the work of

ourselves. We closed for a week at Christmas because it

Open Door and St Albans Action for Homeless.

was so quiet.

During the pandemic Souvlaki City provided hot meals

“Fortunately the community in Fleetville have helped us

for users of Open Door night shelter, and although that

out a lot, using us for collections and deliveries if they

service ended when Covid restrictions lifted, Giorgo and

couldn’t eat in the restaurant.”

Maria continued providing food for SAAFH, just recently

Maria adds: “We’re so very grateful for the way the

providing 20 portions of meatballs in pasta.

community has supported us. We’re trying our best to

“Everybody should have access to food,” Giorgo insists.

make the restaurant feel like our house, our home, and

“Nobody knows if it will happen to them, we’re all just a

our customers are our family.”

few steps away from being homeless, and we try to do

Sharon Linney, community action officer at SAAFH,

what we can to help.

said: “Giorgio and Maria offered to help us last year and

“It’s a hard situation with the cost-of-living, it’s a struggle

they regularly feed our homeless friends and anyone in

for everybody.

need at our food runs, held every Friday and Saturday

“We never used to see trolleys parked up outside

evening outside Barclays Bank in St Peter’s Street at 8pm.

Morrisons, but now there are rows of them as everybody

“With rising costs and so many businesses struggling we

is shopping with baskets because they can’t afford to buy

are so thankful for their kindness and generosity. I hope

as much.

readers of the Times will support them in turn!”

(Below) People waiting for food outside Barclays Bank could receive meals provided by Souvlaki City (see previous page)

Wine Times DARREN MCCABE OFFERS HIS WEEKLY WINE RECOMMENDATIONS (@DMC_UNCORKED)

Blandy’s Madeira – a legacy of excellence This week Penny Edwards and her wonderful team at Cellar Door Wines have me exploring the diversity of Madeira.

Madeira wine hails from the Portuguese Madeira Islands, situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 500 km (300 miles) west of Morocco’s coastline. These islands have a rich winemaking history dating back to the Age of Exploration when Madeira served as a crucial port of call for

ships voyaging to the New World and the East Indies. The unique climate, diverse bioclimates, and volcanic soi contribute to the distinctiveness of Madeira wine. Most vineyards are concentrated along the southern and eastern coasts of the island, where steep sun-facing slopes provide optimal exposure to sunlight.

How is Madeira wine made?

Madeira wine follows a unique

production process that sets it apart from other fortified wines. The vines are grown on low trellises called “latade,” which raise the grapes above the ground. This approach minimizes fungal disease due to heavy rainfall and humidity. Vineyards are often placed on steep sun-facing slopes to optimize exposure. Different grape varieties are macerated and fermented, with variations based on the grape type.

For instance, the driest white variety, Sercial, and red grapes like Tinta Negra and Complexa are fermented without the skins to produce a light wine.

Madeira’s distinctive flavour comes from its aging process, known as ‘estufagem’. The wine is heated and oxidized, mimicking the effects of long sea voyages. This imparts Flavors of caramel, nuts, and dried fruits. The result is a wine that ages gracefully and is virtually indestructible.

Types of Madeira Madeira wine is typically monovarietal, with each white varietal representing one of the four styles: dry, medium-dry, medium-rich, and rich. Historically, Madeira wines were divided into two categories: generic blends and single-grape varieties (Colheita or Vintage) but today we see: Madeira Types by Age: 3, 5, 10, and 15-Year-Old: These age-labelled Madeiras are the workhorses of the wine world. The number on the label signifies the age of the youngest component in the blend. Crafted primarily using the estufa system, they offer a delightful spectrum of flavours. If the wine hails from one of the classic grape varieties - Sercial, Verdelho, Terrantez, or Bual - it proudly declares it on the label.

Otherwise, expect a blend centred around the widely grown red Tinta Negra grape, with sweetness levels clearly indicated.

additional aging—up to a minimum of 20 years—wouldn’t significantly enhance their already impressive profile.

Most labels list the grape used, and if one is mentioned then the contents have to contain at least 85% of this variety.

Single Harvest: A Vintage Gem Introduced by The Madeira Wine Company, “single harvest” wines are treasures from a specific vintage.

These gems spend five to 10 years maturing in casks within the Canteiro system. While they cannot bear the “vintage” label due to their shorter aging period, their quality is undeniable.

Vintage: The Pinnacle of Madeira: Vintage Madeiras represent the zenith of craftsmanship. These singular wines age for at least 20 years, often far longer—up to 40 years or beyond—in the Canteiro system. Their rarity adds to their allure. When finally uncorked, they reveal a symphony of flavours: nuttiness, caramel, toffee, marmalade, and raisins. Yet, their bright, crisp acidity ensures they never become cloying. These bottles are not just wines; they’re time capsules, preserving freshness and appeal for generations.

Look out for the name of the grape variety on the label of your bottle of Madeira.

Blandy’s Madeira: A Legacy of Excellence The best way of introducing yourself to Madeira, is the Blandy’s 5-YearOld Madeira Tasting Pack (£11.95 from Cellar Door Wines), featuring four distinct styles. Blandy’s stands out as one of the most renowned producers on the island.

Founded by John Blandy in 1811, it remains a family-owned business with over two centuries of fine wine production. Blandy’s Wine Lodge, located in the heart of Funchal, ages the finest Madeira wines using the traditional canteiro method. Each room in the Lodge offers unique aging conditions, resulting in diverse wine profiles.

Colheita: The Art of Balance: Colheita wines are single-vintage expressions that mature for approximately 12 to 18 years in Canteiro casks. Bottled as a standalone vintage, these wines strike a harmonious balance. The blender carefully

Blandy’s 5-Year-Old Sercial: A white grape usually grown in the coolest vineyards at heights of up to 1,000 metres on the north side of the Island. It is the same grape as the 'esgana cao' (literally translated as dog strangler) which is grown on the Portuguese mainland. Due to the height at which it is grown, sercial ripens with difficulty and makes a dry and acidic wine.

Fresh and dry, it reveals delightful flavours of citrus, wood, and dried fruit. The finish is both nutty and refreshing. Enjoy it as an aperitif with olives, or perhaps smoked salmon or Indian cuisine.

Blandy’s 5-Year-Old Verdelho A white grape also predominately planted on the cooler north side of the island, tends to produce a medium-dry to medium-sweet wine, perhaps with a slight caramel tinge.

More mellow than sercial, it retains the acidity.

A medium-dry wine with a complex nose of raisins, dried fruits, wood, and spices. Ideal as an aperitif but pairs beautifully with soups, ham, and pâtés.

Blandy’s 5-Year-Old Bual A white grape grown in warmer locations on the south coast of the island, it reaches higher sugar levels than both sercial and verdelho.

Produces a dark, medium-rich raisin and caramel wine which again retains its acidity.

The aromas include dried fruit, vanilla, wood, and toffee. It strikes a balance between medium sweetness and acidity, leaving a smooth finish.

Perfect as an after-dinner drink, served at room temperature it pairs well with fruit, milk chocolate, fruit cakes, or hard cheeses.

Blandy’s 5-Year-Old Malmsey A white grape produced mainly in the warmer locations on the south of the island around Camara de Lobos to the west of Funchal. Produces a

richly sweet wine that avoids being cloying due to maintaining the high level of acidity found in all Madeira wines. Serve at room temperature with rich fruit cake, chocolate, or coffee desserts.

On the nose its full of dried fruit, vanilla, wood, and toffee. It offers a rich, sweet finish with excellent f ruit-acidity balance. Perfectly suited to desserts—especially fruit, cakes, rich chocolate puddings, and cheeses.

In summary, Madeira wine is a testament to centuries of craftsmanship, unique aging techniques, and the passion of dedicated winemakers. Cellar Door Wines offer a broader range of Madeira wines, including some wonderful 10-year classics, so don’t delay, pop in today!

If you’re looking for even more wine recommendations, then please follow me on Instagram @dmc_uncorked. And if you are a wine retailer or a drinks PR company who would like me to feature your range of wines, then please contact me via mccabetwe@gmail.com

10 FROM 50 SARAH CLARKE We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Sarah Clarke, a BAFTA winning series producer who has made a number of entertainment, reality and kids shows in a 26-year career. She is also a resident DJ at local Indie Club Nights, Common People, Get Free and It’s A Sin (www.indienights.co.uk) She grew up in St.Albans and is now raising her own family here.

What is your most missed St Albans shop, pub, café or restaurant?

Full disclosure: I’m about to cheat massively answering this question. Not only am I going to choose more than one place - I’m even going to allow myself a pick that wasn’t even in St Albans. I’ll accept whatever punishment comes with such flagrant disregard for very clear rules.

All of the places I’ve picked are not just nostalgic throwbacks to my youth, but they are places I wish were still here for my own kids.

There’s such a lot to love about St Albans - but not so much if you’re a teenager.

The In Shops: What’s now TK Maxx used to be an emporium of what any teen wanted from their local town. Records, posters, band tees, cheap makeup, shoes, clothes, jewellery and all sorts of random trash. Great to browse and spend a bit of pocket money. There really isn’t anything catering for the kids now. Other than the whole of the internet, which to be fair is probably slightly better than tacky indoor shopping precinct, but lets ignore that for now.

Rocket: Rocket was the coolest place to buy gifts, was a big step up from the

There really is nothing better than flicking through vinyl in a record store and we’ve got one of the best.

random trash of The In Shops and sold cool clothes too. Plus it was owned and run by the much-missed ray of sunshine, Annie Hunniset.

OK my kids love Shaken Cow, but I bet they’d have loved what was there before even more.

The Marlborough Club and The (original) Hatfield Forum: My 17-year-old daughter’s head almost exploded when she found out that Radiohead played at a social club in Cottonmill in the ‘90s and I didn’t even go.

Somehow I missed that, but was there to witness Whigfield play the Hatfield Forum, which still seems like an incredibly strange booking for an indie club full of teenage goths.

Yes, The Horn is still going strong (and put on some great band nights for 14+) and the new investment in The Pioneer Club is really exciting too. But there’s no regular teen music night, and that makes me sad I met my lifetime best friends at The Forum indie nights on Friday and Sunday nights. And while it wasn’t my scene, even Batchwood put on underage club nights every Thursday. What a shame our kids don’t have the same.

CD, vinyl, download or streaming?

All of the above. And let’s not forget cassette tapes, which are making a big retro comeback.

My first love will always be vinyl: our small house has records stuffed in every orifice, of all genres. So many of them collected trawling record stores, charity shops and car boot sales when no one wanted them. It makes them extra special, the sheer effort involved in finding them. Despite having lost so many of our independent shops over the years, it fills me with joy that St Albans still has Empire Records.

There really is nothing better than flicking through vinyl in a record store and we’ve got one of the best.

However, no music lover can deny the magical convenience of having access to literally all music on your phone as a walkman upgrade. And no DJ who has lugged around flight cases of vinyl can deny the sheer convenience of having your entire collection of music on a MacBook.

I wonder if there’ll ever be a Mini Disc revival?

Who is your favourite St Albans musician or band?

I’m a big fan of Friendly Fires - their homecoming gig at the Alban Arena last summer was absolutely epic. And I love Aluna George too.

But my actual favourite St Albans-linked band are The Metatrons (www.themetatrons.co.uk) who are incredibly talented friends of mine, making the exact type of music I love.

Which is very handy for me really. Go check them out!

What TV did you watch as a child?

I could fill this whole edition of the St Albans Times with nostalgic memories of watching TV as a child - but don’t worry I won’t.

I loved TV. So. Much.

My first favourite TV show was The Muppet Show - a strong start. I adored Worzel Gummidge and his many heads. I had a letter read out on The Wide Awake Club and almost exploded with excitement. I fought hard for permission to watch Marmalade Atkins. I loved the US soaps via osmosis from my Granny - not just Dallas and Dynasty, but their spin off shows too: shout out to Knots Landing and The Colbys. And I was the exact right age to be fully obsessed with Neighbours and Home & Away when they came along. I still know all the words to Suddenly by Angry Anderson and I’m still not over Daphne dying.

My Dad used to moan at me for spending hours “rotting my brain” in front of the box.

Turns out I was actually in training for my future career, so ha, in your face Dad! (And also - hi Dad - thanks for inspiring my obsession with comedy - love you).

My first paid job in TV out of uni was on The Big Breakfast, which I’d actually studied as part of a Media Studies GCSE at school years before.

I started as a runner and was a producer by the time the show finished. I felt so lucky to be learning my trade from the people who’d made my absolute favourite show from my teenage years, The Word.

Ironically, now I work in TV I don’t have time to watch as much TV as I’d like and live for podcasts. And also for sleep. Strange how things work out.

Do you ever Google yourself?

I’m not famous, and have incredibly ubiquitous first and last names, which I share with a pretty wellknown American actress. So yes, of course I’ve Googled myself. If only to check and confirm all of the above.

Who was your first best friend?

Technically, my first best friend was a boy called Francis from whom I was inseparable until my family moved to St Albans when I was six. I actually think we’re still engaged. But as this is a St Albans publication, I’m going to shout out to my first St Albans best friend, who is still my best friend today: Sara Hill.

Sara and I both joined St. John Fisher primary school in Marshalswick in what would now be called Year 1, but what we (far more logically) called Infant 2. We immediately bonded, probably because we had very-nearly the same name.

Or possibly Sara was simply an incredibly astute six-yearold, with the foresight to know I’d be the perfect future companion for backpacking around Thailand; attempting to smoke at the bottom of my garden using A4 lined paper and loose leaf tea; or successfully bunking off school to buy a jumper from Benetton on Oxford Street that she literally could not

live without, or indeed wait for the weekend to buy.

Despite going to different secondary schools and having different friend groups, different careers (and Sara now rather inconveniently choosing not to live in St Albans), she is still a much loved and appreciated ever-present in my life.

Should we both find ourselves single or widowed in later life, the plan is to recreate The Golden Girls.

Which sounds so much fun, I have to remind myself that my number one choice is actually for my partner to stick around and grow old with me. Perhaps I need to prep him for the possibility of needing a Sara-annex built on the side of the house…

How often do you check your phone?

All the time. Genuinely. But I’m not one for denouncing all screen-time as evil. Why are they even still called phones? The last thing I want to do with my phone is phone someone on it. I want to listen to music, podcasts, watch TV, take photos. To read the news, follow the football, chat to friends on socials. I want to play Pokémon GO (I’m very committed and I have not yet caught them all, because they keep releasing more).

But for me, it’s also a medical device. My son has Type1 Diabetes and via a monitor in his arm, we get constant blood glucose readings to our phones. This tech is not just a game-changer, but a life saver: alerting us when his blood sugars are headed dangerously high or low.

Am I nostalgic for the halcyon days of freedom and being unshackled from a devise? Absolutely not, I love my phone and feel very lucky to have it.

Do you remember your first kiss?

Surely everyone remembers their first kiss? Or perhaps not everyone returns to the scene of their first kiss with quite such regularity as me.

I had my first kiss at a STAGS/Verulam disco. They were the height of the social calendar for school kids in the late ‘80s/early ’90s; and would alternate from being in the banging venues of the Verulam Canteen and the STAGS hall. This particular disco was at my school, STAGS. And after dancing together to classics like Ride On Time and Pump Up The Jam, my dance partner - let’s call him Alex (because that’s his name) - asked if I’d like to “go outside” with him. That was the height of romance for a tweenager back then.

And that’s how I ended up having my first kiss outside my school canteen, to the brilliantly incorrect soundtrack of I Feel The Earth Move, by Martika.

Unfortunately, despite my thinking “bye losers, never gonna come back here ever again” when I left school after my A-Levels, it turns out I have spent most of my adult life living very close to STAGS, and my daughter goes there. And every time I drive in, and pass the outside of the canteen, I’m reminded of that seminal moment.

The recipient of my first kiss emigrated to Australia, which I hope was unrelated.

What object would you save first if your house was on fire?

In reality this is a wholly impractical item to save in an emergency situation, particularly a fire; but I’d be gutted to lose my grandfather clock.

It stood for years in my Irish grandparents’ house in Berkshire, but was made by a friend of my great aunt, in St Albans.

I’ve done my research (phoned my Mum) to refresh myself on the details, and this is the story: Mr Grisson had a shop on Victoria Street, which sold typewriters and chocolate (there aren’t enough office supply and confectionery stores around these days if you ask me).

It turns out that Mr Grisson was also a talented carpenter in his spare time, and in 1908 he made a grandfather clock from an oak tree that had grown locally. My aunt worked for Mr Grisson and inherited much of his belongings when he passed, with the clock finding a home with my grandparents, and now me.

I love having a little bit of local history in my house.

If you could go back in time and offer your younger self some advice, what would it be?

As a child of the late 1980s, I think the only correct answer to this question is that I would gift myself a Sports Almanac and advise myself to take up gambling.

Yesterday Once More: photos from our archives This week’s images feature a farewell to former Alban Arena manager David Capel-Jones, presented by then Mayor Peggy Hughes in approximately 1991-1992, accompanied by new manager Mike Davies and Colin Curl. Our second photo shows six-year-old Simon Sanders, grandson of the chairman of St Albans Model Engineering Club, taking engine Juliet for a spin at St Albans Hospital summer fete. At the time Simon lived in Hordle Gardens in Fleetville. Does anyone recognise him? All photos from the archive of Tony “Greg” Gregory.

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‘WE’RE WARMED, WE’RE SAVING MONEY ON BILLS, OUR HOUSE IS WORTH MORE AND WE’RE HELPING THE CLIMATE’

Three years ago, future ‘Instagran’ Judith Leary-Joyce embarked on a home renovation at her Warwick Road property which was to change her life in a variety of ways. Not only did she end up with a luxurious new property built to exacting green standards, but she found herself embarking on a post-retirement career as author, speaker and blogger promoting the benefits of eco-renovation.

Her Damascan moment came when Judith and husband of 40 years John decided to knock down an old conservatory and build an extension in its place, a decision which was to lead them down a rabbit hole of environmentally-focused home improvements.

“We'd found a builder, and I remember distinctly it was the August after Covid had started, so we'd had the first big lockdown and we were still having to social distance. He walked through into the garden one Sunday afternoon and said I can either start on Thursday or it'll be next April.”

At the time it was a case of taking down the conservatory and putting up a new room in its place, but Judith was concerned about creating an open plan space because of how much energy it costs to heat it.

She compromised with John to employ an eco-builder to design the project, which involved using wood fibre insulation, but when they were part way through the work the entire emphasis shifted.

“We were standing in here one day after the architect had come. He’d said this part [of the house] is going to be lovely because it would be warmed using a heat pump. He said the rest of your house is really leaky, but I think it will be good enough.

“I'm never keen on good enough. So that evening, John and I just sat in the middle of what was a complete building site, trying to work whether we were prepared to be good enough or not. We decided we weren't.

“So the next morning we said to the builders that we were going to retrofit the rest of the house. Fortunately they were very flexible, but they were still ordinary builders, there are very few builders that know anything about this.”

The couple installed an air sourced heat pump, a piece of equipment that pushes air out so draughty spaces can be filled.

Although there still needs to be air flow the aim is to control this through a heat recovery ventilation system, which also stops the build-

up of condensation.

“One of the big differences is air-tightness, which is essential, because if you just insulate you’ll still get drafts. What we have here is a bubble of heat, so you make sure you don’t open the door lots.”

Most of the house is kept warm using underfloor heating, but there are also radiators in a couple of rooms.

“Using an air source heat pump means it never gets as hot underfeet as ordinary underfloor heating. We primarily heat this room and that then heats the rest of the house, together with a towel rail in our ensuite and the other bathroom, and we have a nest thermostat which switches off automatically.

“The air source acts just like a gas boiler except you don’t keep switching it on and off.

It’s the difference between a marathon runner and a sprinter. So a gas boiler is like a sprinter, it wakes up before you do in the morning and goes like the clappers, then goes cold again and does the same when you’re coming home.

“The air source heat is like a marathon runner, it goes at a slower speed at lower

temperatures but it just keeps going steadily all the time. So it gets cooler in the evening and at night but it never goes off completely.

Eventually it heats the fabric of the house, whereas the gas boiler heats the air, which means you get cold quickly but also warm quickly.

“What we learned during the summer is that when it gets really, really hot we have to open everything up at about six in the morning, and then close it down because it keeps inside and outside separate. So in the winter it keeps the cold out and in the summer it keeps the heat out. So on those 40 degree days last year we were fine.”

The house includes solar panels on the roof, but an existing garden office is set to be replaced with a new shed built with a southfacing roof to provide more solar energy, with a battery storing any excess.

As part of the overall retrofit of the house, they put in sustainable insulation on all of the external walls, took out the chimneys and installed triple-glazed windows where possible, with the whole project taking between 12-14 months as they did it in stages rather than as a whole.

“My nightmare was waking up in the morning and John saying he had another idea. My daughter had a retrofit done and it took six months as they moved out. If you stay in the property you can keep an eye on what’s going on but it takes a bit longer.”

She says the biggest lesson she learned was how worthwhile it was in terms of saving money on energy bills, with the construction completed before the prices of materials, gas and electricity all soared.

“We went from using 25,500 kilowatt hours a year before we did it and now we use just under 6,000. That’s a 75 per cent drop, so it's absolutely worth it.

“We are also considerably more comfortable. I would have had about three layers and a scarf on during the winter, plus the big boot slippers and I’d still have been cold. So we're more comfortable, it's much cheaper to run and it's better for the climate because 21% of UK emissions comes from leaky homes.

“You can now get a whole house plan done by an architect, which will tell you these are the things you need to do and the order to do them in. Because you need to be careful how you do it. You're making a warm airtight box which is just going to get really moist because a family of four will produce 14 litres of vapour a day just by breathing, drying the washing, having a shower, cooking.

“So the airtight box will start condensing if you don't put the ventilation in. The architects will create you a plan where you can do it safely and according to your budget.”

Because they had already planned to build the extension it’s hard to know exactly how much the project cost, but Judith estimates in the region of £30,000.

“We didn’t realise what a difference it would make in our lives, I didn’t set out to write a book, we didn’t know that this would become such a passion.”

But has the retrofit added value to their home?

“I got two different estate agents in to value it.

“One just asked where the internet points were, that’s all he wanted to know, not what we’d done to the house. The second one, his dad was a builder and he said he understood what we’d done and it was amazing. He valued the house at least £90,000 more than the other one did, and said he’d do a whole weekend show house and after that there would probably be a bidding war.

“So we’re warmed, we’re saving money on bills, our house is worth more and we’re helping the climate. I mean, I really don’t see a downside if you’ve got the money to do it.”

Her subsequent book, Beginner’s Guide to Eco Renovation, was a response to the project, not the reason behind it, and followed a lifetime spent campaigning for green issues.

“I feel so passionate about this. I've cared about the environment since the early ‘70s when it wasn’t trendy, but to anyone willing to look it was absolutely clear what we were doing to the planet. So I’ve always been trying to green my life. I didn't feel I could go marching and then come home and be a polluter.

“When I realised the difference this was going to make I thought it was marvellous because it's a major piece of climate action that has no sacrifice with it. Even people who don't believe in climate change would still do this to save the money.

“I think the moment I first thought I'm going to need to write this up was when I found the word retrofit, as the whole thing opened up in front of me at that point.”

It was that terminology breakthrough which made all the difference to Judith, as before then she struggled to find the right words to Google for relevant information. But it also opened up fresh challenges, as she had to wade through complicated articles and data to find relevant information, something she wanted other people to avoid.

“I thought if I can just simplify this down, it will give people a start.

“Lots of people have also asked how do you find good builders? I think the reality is if we educate ourselves and we're informed then we can join forces with the builders because they need educating too.

Before and after the ecorefit of Judith and John’s kitchen area.

“I was thinking a book that gave people just enough confidence to ask the right questions of their builders would be useful. I then found an eco-inspired architect to mentor me through the whole process.

“So she read everything I wrote, added bits, took bits out, and taught me more. She said it was a real lesson to her how I’d written things simply and helped her see how she can sometimes befuddle people with the language she uses.

“Where we ran out of her knowledge, like about the air source heat pump and the glazing and stuff, then I went to those experts and said, ‘Look, will you read this through for me, make sure I'm saying the right things, tell me what I don't understand?’ So I got lots of people to help me. It was a brilliant process, it really was.”

Perhaps the biggest surprise has been her growing social media following.

“The grandchildren now call me ‘Instagran’. A few months ago I had 311 followers, now I’ve got over 30,000.

“I was doing posts which I’ve now learned are not worth doing, it’s all reels now. The first one that took off was me emptying the dishwasher.

“Can you imagine? I was just saying, ‘Here's a good idea, put your dishwasher up high with your cupboards next door so it's easy to empty’.

That's had towards six million views.

“We’ve got a staircase up to the loft that's on counterbalance weights so it just sits upon the ceiling until you pull it down. I did that one and that's over 12 million views. So both of those have really kicked everything else off. I don't think I'll manage to repeat anything like that but it's got me a following now, and really given me a platform to get the message out more.”

Aside from her eco-refit, Judith is constantly looking for new ways to push the environmental agenda.

“I don’t use plastic, I always use refill pantries. I won’t fly anymore, I've done more flying than I should have done and I think if there's flying to be done then the young should do it now. I've had my time. So if we're going anywhere we have to go on the train. But I'm still doing so much in my life now it's hard to even know what’s next.

“We’ve always used natural medicines when we could, and we’re now half-arsed vegans. I'm half-arsed at all sorts of things but I'm doing my best. I've been a veggie for 50 years and in the

last four or five years, being as vegan as I can manage, but occasionally I have an egg.

“I like to cook everything from scratch, so I don't buy any pre-prepared food because they're in plastic. I drive the Waitrose staff mad by going with a box for my olives.

“I also try to educate my grandkids. My grandson said to me, ‘We do stuff about climate at school, but I know far more about it from you.

The next generation are the key, but there's still a lot that the old boomers can do.

“We’re often the ones with money, and part of our thinking was we want this house to be a legacy, so when we're gone, whoever comes into it next, it still will be good for the environment. So there's loads of boomers that could do that now.

“I can feel better by doing something, so the eco-warrior in me comes out to soothe the worrier, and at least then I feel I’m doing everything I can.”

A recent presentation Judith gave to St Albans Soroptimists can be downloaded here: Soroptimist retrofit talk Jan 2024 Judith LearyJoyce, and a Zoom discussion here.

Find her book here and her blog here.

IN OTHER NEWS...

St Albans Times is finalist in Pride Awards

St Albans Mayor Cllr Anthony Rowlands with his partner and Mayoress Annie Stevenson, Deputy Mayor Cllr Josie Madoc and her consort Rhys Madoc.

The Mayor’s Pride Awards presentation will be accessible via the council’s website at https://stalbans.publici.tv/core/portal/home. Highlights will also be broadcast on Mix 92.6FM.

Just over 12 months since it was launched, the St Albans Times has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Community-Orientated Business category in this year's Mayor's Pride Awards.

The news magazine was selected by a panel of judges after being nominated in the category, which recognises businesses in the district that work with the public or local organisations to benefit the community.

The winners of each category will be announced at a ceremony to be held at St Albans Civic Centre on Tuesday March 5 from 7-9pm, where trophies will be presented by St Albans Mayor Cllr Anthony Rowlands.

St Albans Times editor Matt Adams said: "Community is at the heart of everything we do, and to be shortlisted for this prestigious accolade is affirmation of our ethos of celebrating this great city and district in which we live. Thank you to everyone who nominated us for this year's awards.

"Congratulations to everyone else shortlisted for this year's Mayor's Pride Awards - we'll see you on March 5!"

Parents calling for ban on smartphones for young teens A parents-driven grassroots campaign calling for tighter

don’t want their children to be bullied or exposed to the

controls on children’s mobile phone access has reached

worst of social media if they allow them to have a

St Albans.

smartphone.

WhatsApp group Hertfordshire Smart Phone Free

“We know where we stand as parents and where we want

Childhood – itself a spin-off of a national group which

our boundaries to be, but we feel like we may have to

now has more than 4,000 members – now includes local

compromise because of where other parents decide to

chats for St Albans schools including Beaumont,

draw the line. Of course everyone has their own opinion,

Beechwood Park, Bernards Heath Junior, Crabtree

but it’s one of the few areas in parenting where we feel

Infants and Junior, Garden Fields JMI, High Beeches

like other people’s parenting decisions are having an

Primary, Maple Primary, STAHS, Sandringham, St

influence in our home.

Michael’s CofE and Fleetville Junior.

“We know that there’s something about social media that

The group aims to encourage parents not to give their

can lead people to be more bullying or cruel than they

children smartphones until they are at least 14 and

ever would be in a face-to-face situation, and that’s so

restrict social media before the age of 16. It comes in

awful for a child to experience - and as parents we may

response to the normality of providing smart devices

not even know it’s happening.

when children go to secondary school.

“It’s not only terrible for the victim. It’s also tragic for the

The Herts campaign was set up by Fleetville mum

ones being the “troll” - that can’t really feel good, and

Gabrielle Gold, who explained: “I think the main issue is

especially if it leads to harm in the real world, they must

that parents currently face a real dilemma: they don’t

be filled with such regret. These kids are all still

want their children to be socially excluded because they

developing their immature social skills and yet with

don’t have a smartphone and aren’t on social media and

smartphones they are armed with these super-powerful

so are left out of all those social interactions, but they

social devices capable of reaching huge audiences.

It’s like learning to drive in a Ferrari, it’s not fair to them and it doesn’t feel safe.”

St Albans resident Alisa Khakhar is mum to a Year 8 daughter who doesn’t have a smartphone. With 97 per cent of 12-year-olds in the UK possessing one she is in a tiny minority, but is convinced it’s the right decision and national restrictions on phone use will go a long way towards tackling the teenage mental health crisis.

She explained her reasons for not giving her daughter a phone: “I saw the risks associated with childhood smartphone use and I didn’t want to expose my child to that. My sister is assistant head teacher in a secondary school and she told me 90% of the problems she deals with involve social media.

“I wanted a normal childhood for my daughter, where instead of time head down in a phone she continued spending her time reading, playing, relaxing, listening to music, daydreaming, fully observing the world around her, creating, baking… I also didn’t want to introduce a power struggle over phone usage, constantly managing limits etc, into an already busy family life!”

She said she recognised the risks posed by smartphones: “Missing out on childhood with hours spent scrolling, messaging, responding, waiting for a reaction, being worried about that reaction (or lack of!), increased anxiety. Risking exposure to online bullying, inappropriate role models, and altogether making tween/teen life even harder than it already is.

“They are children, their brains are still in early development. As tweens/teens they are in a particularly intense period of development and so it’s such a risky time to expose them to all of this. It’s just so new that the research and regulations don’t exist to protect children yet, but it’s great that these campaigns are gathering momentum.”

Her daughter’s reaction was somewhat predictable: “Of course she course wasn’t happy! She is a tween and wants to be like everyone else, to fit in and belong. But we created space for discussion, shared the research and our reasoning and are always open to regularly reviewing and discussing this topic with her.”

There were also concerns about the reaction from her peers: “We were worried about this and so was she, but on balance we believed the rewards of not having a smartphone far outweighed this small perceived risk.

And they have mostly gone unfounded, she is doing really well at school, enjoys some great extra-curricular activities, has a lovely group of friends who have just got used to her not having a smartphone.

“If they need to get hold of her and she doesn’t have her ‘brick‘ phone (which she doesn’t like to be seen with because it’s so rubbish - we need cooler alternatives for our young people!) they have my number. And to be honest if anyone was giving her a hard time I’d be having broader discussions about healthy relationships - if someone is giving her hard time for this, what else will they give her a hard time for?

“Actually the bigger problem for us has been at school when teachers have asked children to get their phones out to do something with it in class, even though it’s supposed to be a no-phone school, and my daughter has been out at a disadvantage.”

The campaign has also attracted support from other organisations.

“It’s been proved without doubt that the ubiquitous smartphone, with often unfettered-access to social media, contributes to the decline in our children’s mental health”, says mum-of-two Sophia Hermens, St Albans coordinator of Rites for Girls (www.ritesforgirls.com), which mentors girls through their adolescence.

“The pressure on girls especially to conform to internet beauty standards — Instagram face, AI girlfriends, looksmaxxing — is heightened as soon as they begin spending time online. This is happening younger and younger — especially following the pandemic.

“Meeting these societal expectations can be demanding and exhausting for our young people — and they can easily lose sight of who they are, leading to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and self-harm.

“In our monthly Girls Journeying Together groups, we

because our politicians either don’t want to, or can’t resist

offer preteens a tech-free space and opportunity to tune

the corporate pressure to allow them to addict our kids to

into themselves, to belong to a group where they don’t

their products.

have to change anything in order to fit in, as they get to

“Parents think that it’s their fault that they can’t police

know themselves and practise being exactly who they

every minute of the day, and know what their kid is

already are, without external pressures.”

looking at, but this is because companies make it seem

This week the government confirmed plans to ban the

like all the responsibility is on parents - through ‘tools’ to

use of mobiles in English schools, with guidance ranging

safeguard your children - against the companies’ own

from an order to leave all phones at home, handing them

products.

in on arrival, keeping them in lockers or allowing pupils

“Make no mistake, these products will in 20 years have

to keep them providing they are not used or heard. But

maimed a generation’s mental and physical health – just

many parents think the regulations are not going far

so that a few tech billionaires can buy a couple of extra

enough.

yachts.

A St Albans dad, who asked not to be named because of

“Parents locally need to change the norm as tech

sensitivity surrounding his job, said: “As a parent of two

companies won’t forego their profit to protect kids and

little girls, I am scared for their future. I don’t want them

successive UK governments won’t help quickly or deeply

growing up in a world where from age 12, the norm is

enough to make a difference.

that they will have a smartphone.

“It feels hopeless but there are things we can do. Make a

“It’s really clear from the evidence that teenagers cannot

pact with other parents in the class not to give these

avoid internet content about self-harm, suicide, porn and

smartphone ‘portals to porn’ out to their kids, and ask

violence.

your schools and MPs to get policies in place to stop the

“Locally, kids can be also too easily be subjected to

proliferation of these screens wrecking our kids’

widely shared and inescapable bullying opportunities on

childhoods.”

social media by their school peers.

Another mum of three, who also asked not to be named,

“As a parent I read media stories about the tragic cases

agrees: “I have an 11-year-oldold, due to start secondary

linked to this exposure, backed up by scientific

in September, and I am trying my hardest to not get her

systematic review literature which increasingly links

a smart phone. Already in her class there is a class

mental health and suicidality in adolescents to

WhatsApp group, and the meanness has already started,

smartphone use and social media.

she asked to join twice, not fully understanding it, they

“And why do kids have these phones so early in their

have said there is a glitch and they can't add her!

lives? Because of huge advertising, marketing and design

“After hearing of dramas in Year 6 at other schools, in

budgets of tech companies targeting our kids and us. And

Year 6, within WhatsApp groups she has now said that

she does not want it. Thank God! But how long will that last.

“I don't want her being the only child in Year 7 without a mobile or WhatsApp, or to miss out on meet ups etc, but again I think it will be far more damaging. It would be so much better if there were at least a few children without them so she won't be the only one.

“My daughter has additional needs, is already vulnerable, but can be impulsive and I worry so much she may do something she later regrets if she has a phone. Let's hope this takes off and a lot of other parents are supportive.”

Some parents are now pledging not to buy their children smartphones in Year 6 and instead provide a “brick phone” alternative until they are at least aged 14.

But it is not likely to be an easy decision to make. One St Albans mum, who has already bought one of these phones for her daughter, revealed: “I wish I could say the brick phone had been a success but my daughter hates it and tells us she gets laughed at. Even the teacher picked it out of the basket and said ‘Wow, who’s is this?’ So it’s definitely not an easy journey with so many in her class having iPhones, but we are sticking to our guns for now.”

What can you do to get involved?

A petition to ban smartphones and camera phones for under-16s has reached almost 10,000 signatures. You can sign it here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/655473 Find out more about the national campaign and how you can get involved locally here: https://smartphonefreechildhood.co.uk/

THEATRE REVIEW

THE MACHINE GUNNERS DEBORAH HEATH JOINS THE COMPANY OF TEENS AT THE ABBEY THEATRE FOR THIS WARTIME CLASSIC

It is an absolute pleasure to review St Albans theatre and this weekend I was lucky enough to be invited to two shows in one day!

Leaving the Gang Show behind, I went hot foot to the Abbey Theatre to be treated to a production of one of my favourite childhood novels – ‘The Machine Gunners’ by Robert Westall. Stories do not get much better than this wartime adventure which has everything you want from excitement, humour to tearjerking moments. I was delighted to find out it would be in the hands of such a fantastic youth company.

In fact, one of the most exciting things about the Abbey Theatre is seeing new talent emerging from Company of Teens to Ten and sometimes in fact the overlap, for instance in ‘She Kills Monsters’, their previous production.

In ‘The Machine Gunners’, the young cast performed with a skill and professionalism that belied their age, lead by director Matt Hughes-Smith who wanted to challenge the audience to consider the role of children in wartime past and present. He certainly succeeded in this intention, leaving me considering children caught up in the current worldwide conflicts.

‘The Machine Gunners’ tells the story of five unlikely school friends, who find a shot-down Nazi plane, complete with machine gun which they steal to man their own hideout, “fortress caporetto”.

These five lead actors worked together as a great team and were all at one with their characters.

I got a sense that they had a lot of fun as a group which meant the humour was particularly well timed and intuitive.

This group was headed by Henry Gaskin who had been perfectly cast as lead Chas McGill with an impeccable Yorkshire accent and the skill to command every emotion. I loved Darcey Jones’ sassiness and Ethan Kennington-Smith’s anxiety.

If there is one thing that could have elevated the show even higher for me, it would have been for every character who was supposed to have a Yorkshire accent to use one. However, I do understand that sometimes a directorial decision needs to be made to sacrifice this for the good of the play if accents aren’t spot on. Those who attempted it did a great job and I am sure that Matt Hughes-Short made the right decision for his cast.

On this subject, I was blown away by two young performers’ vocal work throughout the show. Benedict Gaskin, having performed with a perfect German and American accent in previous shows, now sported an absolutely convincing Glaswegian accent as strong man Clogger. Wesley Stow-Hazell as German pilot Rudi was utterly convincing in his role. These two actors demonstrated great strength throughout.

One of my very favourite moments in the play was the touching farewell scene between Rudi and Nicky, played with perfect sensitivity by Sam Jones. This was a brilliant partnership thanks to some spot-on casting.

With such a large cast, I cannot mention everyone but there really weren’t any weak links. Even those in smaller roles impressed me, such as Ash Webb as teacher Stan Liddell and Eva Shipley as Chas’ mother, who both showed a great command on the stage and their character.

It is attention to detail that sets a Company of Ten/Teens show apart. Once again, the set and props were beautifully made. The skilfully made double-decker fortress was wheeled on and off the stage with ease. The fight scenes had been extremely well choreographed and were high points of the show. I also appreciated the soundtrack of well-chosen wartime songs.

It is a shame that the run was short because I would love to spread the word to more audience members. This was a thought-provoking play, in which the story was well told, provoking a range of emotions from the audience. Thank you, Company of Teens, for staging a story that is so close to my heart with such aplomb!

All photos by Nick Clarke.

OBSERVATIONS AND MUSINGS

CITY DIARY

EVENT>

PAVEMENT ADVERT IS A WORK OF GENIUS

BUSINESS>

WILKO REOPENING MOVES CLOSER

Wilko how we’ve missed you! The much-loved home and garden retailer will be reopening its St Albans store on March 29 at 9am.

The national roll-out of new Wilko stores has been continuing across the UK since it was bought out by CDS Superstores, who also operate The Range.

The Wilko store in The Maltings Shopping Centre closed in October, leaving a huge void in the city centre's shopping landscape.

Alex Simpkin, CEO of CDS Superstores, trading as Wilko and The Range, said; “It’s clear that there’s a huge love for Wlko and we’re proud that store doors will reopen in St Albans very soon. We’re also glad to be bringing employment opportunities to the area, and for helping local families and communities to have easy access to all the everyday home and garden items they need once again.”

BUSINESS>

In promoting the forthcoming

NEW THAI RESTAURANT IS OPEN

Summerton Whiskey Festival (running

St Albans' newest Thai restaurant and

across two sessions on May 18 at the

takeaway is now open for business in

Lower Red Lion in Fishpool Street) the

Market Place after months of

marketing team decided on an

refurbishment work.

inspirational approach.

Sukawatee, which also serves Malay

Rather than adopting traditional

food, occupies the former premises of

methods of promotion, they used

Turkish takeaway Picky. It officially

stencils and a jetwash to blast the dirt

opened last Thursday with a packed

off the city’s pavements, leaving an

evening sitting.

environmentally-friendly advert which

The eatery is the sister to another

will fade over time.

Sukawatee restaurant in Hitchin.

IN OTHER NEWS...

Rana Begum joins St Albans junior school's Art Week Internationally-renowned artist Rana Begum was a special guest as part of Bernards Heath Junior School's annual Arts Week.

The week was organised and put together by the school’s art lead, Katherine Taylor and her teaching assistant Anne Naisbitt.

The theme for this year’s Arts Week was the work of Rana Begum, who attended Bernards Heath Junior School in the 1980s after her family moved to St Albans from Bangladesh.

Children undertook various activities throughout the week based on work by Rana, and used a range of media to recreate her work. Children in Year 4 visited St Albans Museum + Gallery to view work by Rana Begum up close at the exhibition Ordered Form.

Pupils worked in mixed aged classes so that the older children could help the younger children, which also gave siblings in different year groups the chance to work together.

Parents and carers who are employed or have interests in the arts were also invited in to help or display their work in the Whole School Art Exhibition.

This year’s exhibits displayed a wealth of talents in painting and drawing, ceramics, crochet, knitting, architecture, tattoo, sewing, jewellery, animation, photography and digital photography.

The school also had extra hands-on help from Verulam GCSE students whilst Sandringham A level students also gave a talk on their artistic journeys to the pupils.

The week culminated in a Whole School Arts Week Assembly attended by many parents and carers. Miss Taylor led the assembly and explained the background to this year’s theme and displayed work completed by the children.

Following Arts Week, Rana Begum came in to talk to the whole school about her career and to view the displays of work created by the children.

Deputy head teacher John Reynolds said: "It was an emotional visit as Rana had not revisited the school since moving on to secondary school in the late 1980s. She was overwhelmed by the work on display and the effort taken by the staff in organising the week for the children.

"Equally, the children were enthralled by Rana’s assembly as she talked through her work. Rana inspired the children by retelling her story of her first few days at Bernards Heath Junior when, not speaking any English, she was given colouring pencils and pens and allowed to draw her experiences. This she said, was where her artistic career started.

"Rana donated several signed copies of her book to the school as a thank you for celebrating her work."

COMING SOON...

Powerful production of friendship, family and resilience is coming to the Abbey Theatre from the Company of Ten

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day in March, the Company of Ten is staging Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling. The story, best known for its 1989 film adaptation staring Dolly Parton and Julia Roberts, centres around the lives of six women across generations as their lives intersect in the town salon.

Beautician Truvy runs her home salon to perfection and it is the hub of social life in Chinquapin, Louisiana. New recruit, Annelle shows promise but is harbouring a dark past which the regular customers can’t wait to unpack. They are joined by M’Lynn and Shelby who are getting ready for Shelby’s wedding and plans for the future are their top priority. Regular customers, Louisa “Ouiser”, the town grouch and her best friend, former town first lady Clairee, make up the group.

The play is a beautiful exploration over three years of family relationships, friendships and resilience. Touching on themes of abuse, health and faith, it navigates these difficult subjects, focusing on the importance of friends and family in rebuilding and moving forward in life.

“The play itself manages to be both heartwarming and heartbreaking - and very funny! At its heart it is a play about

women and our relationships - with our friends, our families, our mothers, our children, our community, and how they nurture and support us. While it is a play about women, it is certainly not just for women It is a true ensemble piece, and the relationships they have built are wonderful to see both on and off stage. I am honestly so excited to share this one with St Albans,” said director, Jenny Kilcast.

Once again the team behind the scenes at the Abbey Theatre has been hard at work and the transformation of the main stage, most recently seen as Narnia and wartime Garmouth, is a work of art as a bright, bustling salon, complete with wash basins, genuine chairs and hairdressing equipment. The cast has also been taking lessons in hairdressing and beauty techniques to ensure a high quality production.

Performances take place on the Abbey Theatre Main Stage: Friday-Saturday March 1-2, 8pm Sunday March 3, 2:30pm Tuesday-Saturday March 5-9, 8pm To book tickets please go to www.abbeytheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01727 857861

THE FEELINGS FORUM WEEKLY THOUGHTS ON FEELINGS AND RELATIONSHIPS BY JON WILSON COOPER, DIRECTOR OF COUNSELLING TRAINING, THE ALBANY CENTRE, ST ALBANS

MEMORIES Without memories who are we? It is our memories which form almost everything of what and who we are.

When we think of memories, we tend to think of conscious memories that we can recall such as conversations, songs, images, or the recalling of facts, but we also have a huge internal library of sensory memories and recollections that are operating below our conscious awareness such as body and muscle memories - the things we do with our bodies, mostly learnt at the very beginning of our lives such as how we hold ourselves, how we move, what we do with our feelings.

Our automatic strategies for dealing with fear and pain rely on early learnt experiences and the actions we now perform as adults in fractions of a second to right ourselves when we are about to fall, and behaviours that click in almost at an instinctual level when we are threatened, developed at that early stage.

There are many different types of memory and without the ability to remember it would not be possible to have language, manage a skill such as walking or cycling, to relate to others, or to have any sense of personal identity.

We do not actively need to recall these aspects; they are automatically available within our nervous system. Some other memories both pleasant, and those we might prefer weren’t part of our story, emerge when triggered by a song, a tone of voice, a smell, or a physical sensation.

If the recollection is of something undesirable then we might attempt to block it before the cycle of recollecting, processing, and filing away the incident is complete.

When we are faced with a disturbing, challenging, and threatening experience we naturally try to make sense of it and effectively solve the problem which presents itself.

Since humans first developed the ability to communicate with each other we would create safe spaces, perhaps around a campfire at night, where we could tell stories about what happened to us, and together would make sense of it, discharge the emotions, and draw conclusions about how to handle similar situations in future.

The experience of doing this with others who are supportive is part of the healing process. Effectively we are hardwired to find meaning in our experience and to solve problems, particularly around our survival.

However, when we block the recollecting, we then don’t get to “solve the problem” and the scenario stays incomplete. This means that these cycles can repeat for us in a bid for resolution. The memories pop up again and again and we subconsciously repeat scenes to finally fix what once went wrong.

Almost everything we are is composed of memories of previous experiences, so it is hardly surprising that we spend most of our existence working from internal models of what to do with what is happening to us right now. Understanding our assumptions and resulting feelings and behaviours is the first step to changing the habits which may be leading to outcomes that we are not happy with or don’t give us what we are really needing.

Painful memories can lead us to avoid similar situations, situations that might be necessary for us to experience to get some needs met. For example, if in our past being close to someone, relying on them and trusting them to be kind to us meant that we were then hurt by criticism, exploitation, or rejection then whenever we feel like we are getting close to someone and want something from them we can become frightened and withdraw or reject them in an attempt to protect ourselves.

This of course ultimately can lead to deep loneliness and only being able to tolerate relatively safe ‘surface’ relationships where our vulnerabilities are not being exposed.

Painful memories tend to re-emerge spontaneously without much effort from us because of our mind’s desire to resolve unfinished business and they can cloud the favourable warm memories which hopefully have also been in our past - the moments of kindness, closeness or even joy.

These memories must also be understood and preserved as part of who we are, but these moments need to be fully felt and experienced as they happen in order to be committed to long term memory; we have to use our memories by actively recalling events and feelings.

When it comes to pleasant recollections, we need use it or lose it! If we work to recall the good times, we can also look at how we created those experiences for ourselves and then get closer to doing it again; just as we hope to learn from painful experiences (as well as more general life experiences) so that we can be more skilful human beings, so too can we learn from the wonderful moments in our lives to empower ourselves to be better at making more.

It’s time for some February Frolics at Willows Activity Farm If you're seeking a surefire way of squeezing every last kilojoule of energy out of your children this half-term break, then look no further than Willows Activity Farm.

A long-standing family favourite nestled on the outskirts of Colney Heath, Willows is really coming into its own again now the weather is taking a turn towards spring (the odd downpour aside) and this holiday they are proudly hosting their February Frolics event.

Held as part of the annual lambing season, it includes the opportunity to meet the farm's newborn lambs, and if you're really lucky, be there when some of them are actually born.

More than 40 pregnant ewes are expecting 35 sets of twins and 15 sets of triplets over the course of the month, and as many as possible have been timed for the February half-term period.

Other activities include shows with Bo Peep, the chance to create a sheep headband in the craft tent, and talks from the livestock team about the farm's new woolly additions.

But a visit to Willows is so much more than just February Frolics. Our youngsters - aged four, eight and 11 - all found something to do there during the course of the day, from romping around the adventure park to jumping on the inflatable pillows, petting the farm's cuddly guinea pigs or bouncing on the inflatables. Then there were the fairground rides, animal feeding, indoor artificial ice rink, digger park, prize quiz trail and awesome soft play to while away a few more hours. We arrived at around 11 and didn't leave until 4.30, by which point all three were absolutely exhausted, guaranteeing an early night which definitely ticked the parents' box for the day.

February Frolics takes place until February 25, so there's still plenty of time to go this half-term. Tickets include all activities, shows and adventure play and can be purchased in advance online with savings on family tickets.

For more information call 0333 331 2060, head to www.willowsactivityfarm.com

ERIS: OPINION WITH BITE The dummy vote The Liberal Democrats are floating ever more exciting ideas solving intergenerational inequality.

Leading Liberal Democrat and former Nick Clegg advisor Polly Mackenzie, has suggested that everyone should have the vote… from birth.

She said: “People should get votes from birth. I think there is no good reason to disenfranchise the under-18s at all and I would be happy to hold that vote in proxy until their child is, say, 10.

“There’s about 11 million people who can’t vote because they’re under 18 and that skews what the democratic system represents…(it) is only capable of representing the views of the over18s and the views of the over-18s about young people.”

It is interesting to consider what the likely views of young people in one local family on this interesting new development.

Jack (17) agrees that the franchise should be extended. “It is completely unfair that I don’t have a say in how much tax I pay. My pet sitting side-hustle now has 50 customers and I’m

giving employment to 20 mates. Now they are trying to tax me and my small company at ridiculously high levels and the amount of paperwork I am having to fill in is outrageous.

We are just walking dogs! It’s barking mad! I would vote either Conservative or Reform. At least they don’t try to burden hard working entrepreneurs.”

Portia (15) agrees that the franchise should be extended. “The older generation just don’t seem to care about the environment. The lovely polar bears are dying and we are all going to burn.

“We need to stop using oil and gas immediately. It doesn’t matter how much it costs or what happens to the economy. That’s irrelevant. I am very disappointed with the major parties who are all backtracking on this. It is the most important issue for young people. We need to protest so everyone understands.

Nobody is talking about climate change. I would vote Green.”

Oliver (13) wants the vote. “I am sick and tired of the moaning – Jack about tax and forms and

Portia on climate change. They need to get real and understand life isn’t fair. It’s not fair that Jack has all this money and still won’t let me near his computer games and Portia has the biggest bedroom.

“I’m voting Labour to ensure people get a fair crack of the whip.

“We need higher taxes and needs based housing for people like me who are suffering from generational inequality.”

Olivia (6 months) said: “Goo, goo, gah, gah” and blew a lovely bubble.

Their mother Amanda is all in favour of votes for the under 18s. She says: “Of course they should get the vote.

“I completely agree with the proposal, but think that parents should hold the vote on their behalf, obviously consulting with them on their views and opinions and selecting the best party to represent them.

“I will give all their votes to the Liberal Democrats, who agree with everything all of them are saying.

“Particularly Olivia.”

Fitness and Wellbeing

WHY IT’S TIME TO BIN THE SCALES

KIRSTEN WHITEHOUSE | WWW.WOLFAPPROACHFITNESS.COM | @WOLFAPPROACHFITNESS

The easiest way to feel happier in your skin (it won’t cost you a thing and will only take a matter of seconds)...

Today, I am sharing my number one tip with you, which – if you follow it - can help you to achieve your fitness and fat loss goals. This advice is based on years of experience in my work as personal trainer and online fitness and wellbeing coach at Wolf Approach Fitness, and many incredible results my clients have achieved thanks to it – so make sure to give it a fair chance!

Here it is: Bin. Your. Scales.

You heard that right: by getting rid of your bathroom scales you can achieve amazing things, such as fat loss, body re-composition (less fat, more lean muscle), being healthier as a result and likely feeling more confident and happier, too.

Why is that?

Most of us are used to getting on the scales more or less regularly to keep an eye on our weight. This is especially true for people who have decided to start a diet.

When clients come to me, often with the wish of ‘toning up a little’ and ‘dropping some fat’, the scales are usually their preferred means of measuring progress (or the perceived lack thereof!).

There is no problem with the scales per se, as long as you appreciate that – as a means of tracking data points – they are actually incredibly unreliable and should be treated as an indicator at best.

To understand why that is, you must first look at the difference between weight (loss) and fat (loss) – as they are two entirely different things.

Weight is the entirety of your body (and what happens to be inside it at the time of weighing) – and that is exactly what the scales will show you.

Fat, on the other hand, is that part of your body that you are likely trying to get rid of, as it can make us look bigger and (if present in too large a proportion) carries a number of increased health risks with it. The scales do not show you how much fat you have in your body (neither do the ones that pretend to do so and cost an extra fiver on Amazon by the way).

The old saying ‘fat weighs more than muscle’ is somewhat misleading: obviously a pound of fat weighs the same as a pound of muscle. What you need to understand, however, is that fat takes up around three times more space in your body than the same weight of fat! You can see, therefore, that the number on your scales can be entirely misleading – your weight may stay the same or even

Kirsten Whitehouse is a local personal trainer and fitness and wellbeing expert, who qualified with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. She runs group and 1:1 sessions out of her studio gym as well as online transformation programmes, and regular fitness retreats throughout the UK. Specialisations include ante/post-natal and peri/post-menopausal fitness, as well as rehabilitation training for those post injury or at an older age. For further details, please contact her via www.WolfApproachFitness .com

increase while you may drop a number of dress sizes at the same time.

Your scales can help you track your weight from one day or week to the next. The problem is that your weight will fluctuate massively for all manner of reasons – many of which are entirely out of your control. These include things like the weather (hot weather = water retention = weight gain), your sleep (less sleep = water retention = weight gain), meals high in salts or carbohydrates (1g of carb will make you retain 4g of water = weight gain, you get the idea!).

Add to this, things like being stressed, where you are on your cycle, or whether you have drunk enough water (conversely to what you may expect – if you are dehydrated, this will make you heavier), and you begin to understand why the number on the scales can fluctuate by multiple pounds daily.

Now, you may feel you are someone who can look at a number on the scales and not be upset if it doesn’t show you the right ‘result’; in my experience, mystical creatures like that are very rare indeed. Most people will look at the number and if it hasn’t shifted downwards – or perhaps even gone up! – they are extremely disappointed; especially if they feel they ‘have done everything right’, have eaten better and moved a little more.

Sadly, for most people, it doesn’t stop at being disappointed: time and again I see clients who have worked hard for a week, stepped on the scales, not liked what they saw and taken the ‘well, I might as well….’ route in response and stopping their health journey before it had even begun.

Unfortunately, we live in a society where we crave instant results and gratification. Few people will look at that ‘wrong’ figure on the scales, look back over their previous 24/48 hours and accept that that number is only temporary and there for a reason (such as any or all of the ones I mentioned above). Instead, we will become despondent and feel low, like a failure, perhaps even fat and ugly.

Why? Nothing could be further from the truth!

If you have just spent a week eating better than before and got some extra movement in, chances are you will already look better than you have done in a long time!

Remember: you do not walk into a room with that ‘magic number’ your scales gave you displayed above your head. No one else knows what that number even was – but they may just guess it wasn’t what you wanted to see, judging by your sad face and hunched shoulders.

Let me repeat that: no one can see what that number even was.

Why do you let it define your mood and feelings?

Instead, imagine walking into that same room without having stepped onto the scales: you had a really good week, having eaten more vegetables and lean protein than you have done in years and you feel healthier as a result already. Your gut bacteria are certainly loving it and your skin is glowing as a result. You have tried to get more movement into your days, and you even got a little sweat on in the gym. You feel stronger and rightfully proud of yourself, and as you walk into that room with your head held high and a big smile on your face, people are noticing your positive everything.

You. Look. Fabulous.

No numbers floating above your head (or inside it for that matter) – just the result of looking after yourself and reaping the instant rewards. You may well inspire someone else to follow your example and you’re definitely motivating yourself to keep going.

The scales are misery makers.

There, I said it. They do nothing for your confidence – you are so much better off taking regular measurements and/or progress pictures. The beauty of the latter is that – along with a leaner and stronger body – you often notice a big smile creeping in, too: and that is what your health and wellbeing journey should really be about.

ROMANS MARCH TO VICTORY OVER SAINTS St Albans City’s unbeaten run ended with a 3-1 defeat at Twerton Park in the Roman Derby.

The Saints started the game with an unchanged line-up. Bath City flew out of the traps and created a chance in the first few seconds.

They continued to have most of the possession in the early phases and had three clear-cut chances in the first 10 minutes.

Some uncharacteristic mistakes from the Saints added to the pressure.

With 35 minutes gone, Shaun Jeffers appeared to have been pulled down as he was readying to shoot within the Bath

City box but the referee waved the Saints appeals away and the Romans were able to clear.

In the 41st minute, Dan Bowry lost his footing and was dispossessed by Ewan Clark who squared the ball to Tom Smith, who had no problem slotting the ball past Michael Johnson to give the Romans the lead at the halftime break.

The Saints started the second half brightly but found it hard to create a clear goal-scoring chance.

Mitchell Weiss was the stand-out threat in the early exchanges as he looked to get in behind the Bath defence.

However, Bath City’s first venture across

the halfway line on 65 minutes led to a goal after Johnson missed his attempted clearance allowing Richard Chin to knock the ball into the empty net.

Bath City finished off the game with their third goal, as James Alabi broke clear and despite his first effort being blocked by Johnson, he was able to head the rebound into the net.

Shaun Jeffers grabbed a consolidation goal in the first minute of added time, after a swivel and shot that found the bottom left corner of Case-Grande’s goal, breaking Bath’s clean sheet streak. Jeffers’ goal makes it 16 for the season in the league.

SAINTS IN THE COMMUNITY As well as St Albans City FC’s success in moving the team up to 6th place in the National League South things have also been busy off the pitch.

The recent form under the interim management of Jon Meakes and Harry Wheeler - carrying on the previous good work by David Noble - has seen the crowd increase to an average of over 1,500.

The Young Saints scheme has seen more than 1,000 parents of Under 12s sign their children up for the scheme which as well as giving Under 12s free entry also entitles the parents to reduced price tickets for all remaining men’s games.

The club has also welcomed more 60 youth teams to participate in matchday activities. Many of the Under 7 to Under 15 teams are from St Albans and surrounding villages, but also from further afield such as Potters Bar, Hertford and Hatfield.

The club has also invited keen footballing refugees to one of our home games.

Away from Clarence Park the club is raising funds and awareness for Youth Talk the local young people’s mental health charity by taking part in the St Albans Annual Pancake race, a quiz night organised by two season ticket holders and the club’s Community Day at

Clarence Park on Saturday April6 in conjunction with St Albans City Youth.

This will see halftime activities organised for younger fans.

The club are also continuing their fundraising for Prostate Cancer UK and raising awareness together with other clubs on National Non-League Day on March 23, looking to add to the £186,000 the club has already raised for the charity.

Find out more about the charities St Albans City FC is supporting on their websites: https://youthtalk.org.uk/ https://prostatecanceruk.org/

(Top) Sandridge Rovers U11 Raiders, (left) St Albans City Youth U10 North, (above) St Albans City FC /Youth Talk St Albans Pancake Race team Ken Moorton, Pat Higgins, Sammy the Saint and Phill Coates.

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