LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
PROPERTY NEWS
MAY 2021
UK BEACH GUIDE
THE BEST SEASIDE AREAS TO VISIT THIS SUMMER SUMMER SKIN CARE LOOK AFTER YOUR SKIN IN THE WARM SUNSHINE
HOT INTERIOR DESIGN THE LATEST INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS THIS YEAR
SPRING BANK HOLIDAY GREAT DAYS OUT FOR ALL THE FAMILY
MAY GARDENING GUIDE OUR GUIDE TO WHAT TO PLANT THIS MONTH
CONTENTS LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
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Best UK beaches We’ve put together a list of the best seaside areas in the country to visit
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Spring bank holiday Our top ideas to help you get the most out of your long weekend
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May gardening guide With our handy guide we have laid it all out for you
Our latest instructions Take a look at a selection of our latest properties on the market
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Screen Free Week Some ideas to include in your downtime from screen time
About us Get to know our team a little better and see why we are your agent of choice
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World Bee Day It’s vital to raise awareness of the importance of bees
PROPERTY
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Hot interior design Now’s the time to think about your home decor, we have the latest trends for this year
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Summer skin care The sun is out, but what are the best ways to protect ourselves from its harmful rays?
The sun is out, but what are the best ways to protect ourselves from its harmful rays?
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hether it’s a long-overdue holiday to a wave-lapped tropical shore or just an afternoon in the garden, there’s nothing quite like lounging in the sun, catching a few rays. A beer, a book, a basting session, it’s what summer’s all about, right? Well, no. Because what you do in the warmer months may well dictate how you look in later years. You may feel like a sun-kissed Greek god for a couple of weeks but, in a few years, there could be wrinkles, skin discolouration and any number of problems which could be a prelude to skin cancer. Short-term gain, long-term misery.
FOOD
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Buzzingly good food Celebrate World Bee day with these wonderfully sticky honey recipes
SPORT
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The finals countdown the football season heads into its ‘business end’ with trophies on the line
WELCOME TO THE MAY ISSUE!
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he UK is slowly awakening from its imposed slumber. BBQs in the back garden with friends and family (following social distancing guidelines) are back on the cards, as are drinks in a beer garden. Non-essential shops are open again as are gyms and swimming pools. This month, with the weather heating up, we have an in-depth article about how to look after your skin in the sunshine and to tie-in we have a fantastic guide to some of the best UK beaches to visit over the summer. With the kids already having spent so much time at home this year, we have a feature full of idea for the Spring Bank Holiday, and if you are
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planning DIY jobs to take advantage of the long weekend, we have a guide to the hottest summer interior design trends. May is a busy month for your garden, and we have our monthly gardening guide to help you with advice of what to plant and sow now, and we also celebrate World Bee Day with an article about its history and some buzzingly good honey recipes. It is also a busy month for sport, with finals in a whole host of competitions, so we are looking at the potential winners of the cup competitions and we also look into the importance of Screen Free Week. Jonathan Wheatley Editor
Of course, we heed all the warnings: we’re coated in sun cream from head to foot, we feel we’re well covered, and we’re not going to sit out in direct sunlight too long. But what happens? You get comfortable, the book’s too good, and because you’ve moved to a shady spot, there’s no need to cover-up or re-apply the Factor 30. Is there? Come the end of the day, though, you’ve discovered a little tenderness around the neck – it couldn’t have been anything to do with that welcoming breeze which sprang up, could it? – and your ears are burning like someone’s having a good moan about you. And yes, it was a mistake to keep a bracelet on. Experts have been warning us for years that too much exposure to the sun is a danger to the skin, not only in the peak summer months but as outdoor temperatures and daylight hours start to increase. And while sunshine brings many benefits, such as an increase in Vitamin D, too much of a good thing isn’t necessarily ideal. Vitamin D can improve brain function invigorate muscles and bone health, and lower high blood pressure while the levels of serotonin, triggered by sunlight hitting the retina, helps to improve mood, helping a person feel calmer and less stressed. And
COVER-UP JOB the sun’s rays are also good for helping to battle such skin conditions as eczema, acne and jaundice. The disadvantages to over-exposure come in later life with unsightly solar lentigines (often called age spots or liver spots and are similar to freckles), solar elastosis (where the ultraviolet radiation breaks down the skin’s elasticity and causes vertical creases, deep wrinkles and sagging), melasma (a darkening of facial skin), and poikiloderma (reddish-brown pigmentation common on the neck and chest). It sounds scary but there are a number of ways, requiring minimal effort, to help you stay safe in the sun this summer.
and 3pm so limit your exposure time, or even use a higher-factor sunscreen during those hours if you need to be outside or add a thin layer of clothing. A T-shirt provides an extra barrier between the sun and your skin, also protecting sensitive areas such as shoulders, back and chest – areas prone to over-exposure and PRIORITISE LIGHT where the application of sunscreen is habitually hit and miss.
There’s nothing quite like lounging in the sun, catching a few rays
Wide-brimmed hats protect the face, neck and ears, and with sunscreen, provide a good all-round shield, particularly What you do in the if moving about in direct warmer months sunlight, while long-sleeved may well dictate swimming tops are ideal for how you look in children who like to spend a later years lot of time in the sea or pool.
The most obvious is sunscreen. Using a lotion with a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF) provides an increased level of defence, although with children it is always best to stick with 50-plus as their skin is so much more delicate. It is best applied at least 15 minutes before you go outside, allowing it to soak in, and should be re-applied regularly, particularly if you are sweating or have been swimming – even water-resistant creams need a top-up. Be careful with the time of day. In the UK, the sun is at its strongest between 11am
Shades and shade: Eye protection is all-important as UVA and UVB rays are particularly threatening from light, reflective surfaces. Polarised sunglasses absorb that glare, while seeking shade will not only protect your skin from direct light but also keep you cool. It almost goes without saying that babies and toddlers should be kept under cover as much as possible. And don’t forget to hydrate. Sweating is nature’s way of keeping the skin cool, so you will need to replenish lost fluids with lots of water. Not wine. Or beer.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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t doesn’t feel five-minutes since the kids were on Easter holidays, however, here we are again with some more time away from school. Being only a three-day break, however, time is short, so here are our top ideas to help you get the most out of your extended weekend.
LONDON
London, in essence, is everything and anything you want it to be. No two trips to London can possibly be alike due to its vast scope of diversity, and if you’ve never been before, now’s the time to visit, because right now is when London is gearing up for a fabulous summertime.
A visit to this enchanting archipelago on your extended weekend would be perfect for all the family or even just as a couple, for there is plenty to enjoy
With eight fantastic royal parks, there is ample outdoors space for picnics, walks or just plain-old sightseeing, for you can see many of London’s prime landmarks from a simple park bench, including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. Whether it’s a play, an opera, a tour, a burlesque show, a sporting event, a wine tasting class or anything else which may tickle your fancy, London will have something for you.
BEACH WALKS – THE WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER AND CORNWALL
Even when the weather isn’t perfect, a walk down the beach – either alone, as a couple or with the family – can be one
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PROPERTY NEWS
of the nicest, most relaxing activities to engage in. The water gently crashing up against the shoreline as you stroll alongside the ocean, looking out to the distant horizon. It’s also something the kids will absolutely love whilst they’re off from school, as most children love simple walks down the beach. Whether it’s skimming stones across the sea or looking for rare and weird washedup artefacts on the sand, children will always have a fun experience, and what better place to do this than Dover? The White Cliffs are a spectacular marvel and the best way to see them is to take a walk along the coastal path towards South Foreland Lighthouse. Guided tours are available too to get the most out of these breath-taking views. Moreover, the UK owns some tremendous white-sand beaches, and many of them are just as beautiful as those we travel half way around the world to see. Cornwall is another great destination to visit to take in some magnificent stretches of white sand.
THE LAKE DISTRICT
By far the most popular mountainous region in England and possibly the UK, the Lake District is a much-loved holiday destination for families everywhere, with
SPRING
BANK HOLIDAY IDEAS This spring bank holiday is going to be a special one; it’s going to be one for us all to let our over-grown hair down and have fun in the sunshine and bask in our freedoms!
more than 19 million visitors each year. Largely famous for its lakes, forests and mountains, it is also well-known for its associations with William Wordsworth and other Lake Poets, as well as Beatrix Potter and John Ruskin.
sailing, kayaking, swimming and fishing. Alternatively, soar through the national park on your mountain bike before refuelling with a slice of the famous Kendal Mint Cake.
THE ISLES OF SCILLY
All the land in England which is higher The Isles of Scilly are considered by many than 3,000 feet above sea level exclusively to be the most underrated of the British lies within the Lake District National Park, Isles. COVID regulations permitting, a including Scafell Pike visit to this enchanting which is officially the archipelago on your highest mountain in extended weekend Camp in the right England. The deepest would be perfect for all spots, and treat it (Wastwater) and largest the family or even just like an adventure, (Windermere) natural as a couple, for there is lakes in England are plenty to enjoy. and you’ve got here too. With hotels, yourself a truly camping sites, and The Isles of Scilly lie just wonderful time various exhibitions to off the coast of Cornwall, offer, it will be a winner but are a world apart for any family. in every way. They are a natural wonder, like a cluster of precious The Lake District is also a fantastic ocean jewels, where nature thrives and camping spot. Camping is essentially the soul is inspired. huddling up together under tents outside, but this can be so much more COVID-restrictions permitting, it may be than that. Camp in the right spots, and possible to travel abroad on the cusp of treat it like an adventure, and you’ve got this summer. So, for a two or three night yourself a truly wonderful adventure. For stay, we recommend places like Paris, those feeling active, spend an afternoon Brussels, Amsterdam or Copenhagen, in Ullswater, which is England’s second or indeed many other oversea locations largest lake and offers a magnitude nearby, for many of these destinations can of watersport opportunities including be reached in less than an hour by plane.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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THE BEST
BEACH BREAKS THIS SUMMER As we move towards Summer, heads will inevitably turn to getting away on a much deserved break
A UK beach getaway might be the safest, and most popular way forward
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PROPERTY NEWS
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owever, with question marks remaining over whether overseas holidays will be possible this year, a UK beach getaway might be the safest, and most popular way forward. So, whether you love fun in the sand, or walks along coastlines, we’ve put together a list of the best seaside areas in the country to visit.
PERRANPORTH, CORNWALL
Situated on Cornwall’s rugged North Coast, this town is perfect for anyone who wants to combine having fun with scenic views. The beach itself stretches for over three miles, and is manned by the RNLI, making it a safe, and clean place to spend your time. This place is about more than just its sandy beach though. Towards the town end of the beach, there are rock pools and caves to explore. But if you’d prefer to truly relax on your getaway, then why not pay a visit to ‘The Watering Hole’ - an all-year-round pub, situated right on the beach, and providing live music performances on its outdoor stage. And only a stone’s throw away, the small high street offers a variety of shops and cafes, meaning that one never has to travel too far in order to find something to do in Perranporth.
BOURNEMOUTH, DORSET
The sun-drenched town of Bournemouth enjoys seven miles of sandy beach, and is the ultimate destination for families. As well as the array of water sport activities on offer, it’s only a short walk to the famous Bournemouth Pier. Complete with an arcade and a variety theatre, Bournemouth, amongst many other seaside towns, does not lack in family entertainment. And that’s not to mention the PierZip at RockReef - the world’s first pier-to-shore zip wire. The 250m long wire is also dual-wired, so it’s possible to race others, whilst making the most of the view. And if you’re looking to unwind, then take a stroll towards BH2 Leisure. This modern complex houses a cinema, as well as a selection of restaurants. If you needed any confirmation of how attractive a proposition Bournemouth is, its beach has been named as TripAdvisor’s 20th best beach in the world in 2021.
SEVEN SISTERS, SUFFOLK
To completely contrast with the buzz of Bournemouth, The serene Seven Sisters stand between Seaford and Eastbourne on the south coast of England, and is the perfect destination if you want to be at one with nature. It boasts a stretch of white chalk cliffs, and the area takes its name from the seven peaks of these cliffs. This dramatic landscape provides the perfect opportunity for a country walk, and will test even a seasoned hiker’s stamina. The Seven Sisters country park is also a popular area for activities such as bird-watching, canoeing, and wild swimming. So if you’re of this persuasion, this could be the perfect getaway for you.
BROAD HAVEN, PEMBROKESHIRE
Moving into Wales, the town of Broad Haven also falls into the category of ‘having something for everyone’. The water is suitable for swimming, and there are numerous rock pools, so this beach is a hit for children. If staying on the beach isn’t for you, then you’ll be thankful that you’re right in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, offering several exceptional nature walks to choose from. And what’s more, the town of Broad Haven became the object of numerous UFO sightings in the 1970s, and has since been humorously nicknamed the ‘Broad Haven Triangle’. So, if you’re a budding believer of extraterrestrial life, a trip to this town could give you more than you bargained for.
STONEHAVEN, ABERDEENSHIRE
And finally, for those wanting to venture into Scotland, Stonehaven could just be the place for you. The beach itself is very popular among water sports enthusiasts. So if you’re a keen surfer, diver, or sailor, then why not take on the brisk waves of the North Sea? Aside from the beach, the town of Stonehaven boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool, so that the whole family can keep warm during the Scottish summer. And if you’re looking for something more cultural, Stonehaven is steeped in history. Take a trip to the beautiful Dunnottar Castle which sits atop tall cliffs. Although this castle fell into ruins nearly three hundred years ago, it has lost none of its charm, and is well worth a visit to learn about Scottish history.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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CORE VALUES
Now’s the time to think about your home’s decor
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hey say a change is as good as a rest. And although there will be no respite when it comes to actually getting down to do it, there can be no doubt that, once finished, a home makeover is good for the soul.
Less is more seems to be the key phrase when it comes to furniture, particularly if you are after a vintage look
The dilemma is whether to follow the herd and opt for the latest fashion, knowing next year you’ll be out of date and will need to do it again. Or opt for comfort and personality, with the emphasis on longevity. Therefore, it won’t be a surprise to learn there are wildly differing schools of thought when it comes to this year’s summer trends. The first is all about comfort and nostalgia, and has been dubbed Cottagecore, because we can’t live without labels. This is a romantic interpretation of simplistic rural life
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PROPERTY NEWS
with splashes of glamour – granny chic meets rustic vogue, according to the influencers – with muted, pastel tones offset by statement gold accessories and vintage-style wallpaper. As for furnishings, it’s traditional-shaped sofas with the accent on curves, rather than angular edges, and deep cushions, large footstools and statement lighting. Plus full-length curtains on wooden poles, something of a throwback to the Eighties. In the opposite corner is Japandi, a blending of the modern, pared back and functional Japanese and Scandinavian styles with simple shapes, rattan and natural wood dominant. Stoneware and ceramics are particularly important with bold, abstract prints on plain grey or white walls adding splashes of colour. Boucle – a tactile fabric popular in the Fifties and now fashionable again -
adds texture and softness to upholstery while, instead of flowers in vases, replace blooms with elegant grasses. Similarly, tall vivid green houseplants, such as palms, weeping figs or yuccas are also suitably eye-catching.
Less is more seems to be the key phrase when it comes to furniture, particularly if you are after a vintage look. Antique, repurposed or salvaged pieces all have their place, but the key is to provide plenty of contrast and that can only come gradually. Interior designers say it’s a look which needs layering so a few rich fabrics and statement lighting will help retain a modern note until the look is complete.
As for paint, Dulux’s colour of the year is Brave Ground, a warm natural tone which is the perfect backdrop for sage green - which is Boucle – a tactile expected to be particularly popular Some pieces, such as fabric popular in the in kitchens – as well bookcases or cabinets, Fifties and now as pale pinks. Earth are useful for displaying fashionable again colours are said to ornaments and - adds texture and give us courage to sentimental objects, softness to upholstery embrace change, so if but are not as effective you’re having a radical as floating shelves, rethink, at least it will particularly if they are give you confidence tiered. Being at home to carry on! more over the last year has made us look at what we have, and treasure them Industry-standard Pantone, on the other accordingly, while there is something hand, went for two shades: Illuminating therapeutic about choosing favourite – a bright yellow – and The Ultimate Grey items, moving them around into – a soft neutral – which, when combined, different patterns and orders. present a warming and optimistic colour scheme certain to lift spirits, Plus, they will look good as a backdrop and both are equally appealing when to your next Zoom call from the homeused on feature walls or in alcoves. Last working space you have managed to year’s colour, Classic Blue, still remains create behind that little bit of wall that relevant, however, and along with burnt juts out in your not-so-regularly shaped orange, provides a welcoming feel to living room, which you’ve never worked sitting rooms and snugs alike. out what to do with. You can zone the different areas with rugs, artwork lighting Alternatively, muted colours with folksy or plants and even paint the wall a slightly and characterful prints creates a modern darker shade to the rest of the room just vibe to brighten a window wall. to give it the feel of a separate area.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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MAY GARDENING GUIDE
May is a wonderful month for your garden, and with our handy guide we have laid it all out for you
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pring is fully underway. There should be no more frosts and the temperature is steadily getting warmer, which is bliss for your garden. With more sunshine, your plants should get stronger and healthier and the colours should start to look really vibrant. However, if you have a new space or a blank space, we are on hand to guide you through the best flowers and plants for your outdoor space.
FLOWERS
The vibrant and bright colour of flowers is what makes a garden. And now is the time to sow seeds directly outdoors.
DILL
Looking to create a wild field look in your garden, then you can’t go wrong with cornflowers. These bright blue annual flowers can grow up to a metre high and give a vibrant wild meadow look to your beds. May is the final month to sow them, to get them to bloom this year.
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Towering sunflowers are exciting annuals to grow in your garden. Children love them and they are really easy to plant and look after. Also, with so many varieties available with different colours, shapes and sizes, they create a simply gorgeous summery border in your space.
SCABIOUS
If you love butterflies fluttering around your garden, then these gorgeous scabious flowers, which come in shades of purple, pink and blue, Homegrown veg simply are perfect. Some tastes better than shopvarieties are hardy perennials, which bought veg. It’s a fact and means they’ll come if you don’t believe us, back year-after-year cucumber is the perfect while some tender veg to test the fact species are annuals.
Dill is an airy annual that not only looks great but is also used in cooking. If you are looking to attract wildlife, this is a great little plant that hover-flies are particularly attracted to. You can sow it directly into your beds, ready for summer blooms.
CORNFLOWERS
SUNFLOWERS
BISHOP’S FLOWER
Keeping with the wild meadows theme, the bishop’s flower is a very pretty annual plant that grows to roughly 1m in height. Sow these flowers en masse and when they come into bloom, you will have graceful white cloud formations on top. Grown amongst cornflowers, the contrast in colours looks simply stunning.
VEGETABLES
Similar to flowers, with the frosts having passed, many veggie seeds can now be sown directly outdoors.
BEETROOT
Beetroot is a purple root vegetable that is packed with essential nutrients. Even better, they are really easy to grow in your garden. The seeds don’t need much encouragement to germinate, and they require little maintenance once established.
SWEETCORN
Perfect for the BBQ, sweetcorn is another great plant that needs to be planted this month at the latest. Containing lots of fibre, sweetcorn is extremely healthy too. Simply sow the seeds in small pots or modules before planting them into rich, moist soil in a sunny spot.
CUCUMBER
Homegrown veg simply tastes better than shop-bought veg. It’s a fact and if you don’t believe us, cucumber is the perfect veg to test the fact. Sow cucumber seeds in peat-free compost and keep them in a warm spot. Once the seedlings have developed their first ‘true’ leaves, plant them outside with a bamboo stick for support.
SPROUTING BROCCOLI
Extremely robust, sprouting broccoli produces nutrient-packed succulent spears, which are perfect for steaming, boiling and grilling. Simply sow the seeds into small pots. Once the seedlings are coming through, prick them out and put them into larger pots. Then once they are between 7-9cm tall, plant them in rows in your garden.
With more sunshine, your plants should get stronger and healthier
CARROTS
A true garden and cooking staple, the honest carrot is an exceptionally easyto-grow vegetable, which is perfect for a whole host of dishes. Simply sow carrot seeds sparingly in drills in prepared soil before covering with a thin layer of soil and water sparingly. Seeds should germinate in a few weeks.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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TAKE SOME DOWNTIME FROM SCREEN TIME
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Making the most of Screen Free Week
od knows we’ve all been indulging in a massive amount of screen time over the last year, including our televisions, computers and phones. What a perfect time, then, to celebrate Screen-Free Week! In 1994, the week was first championed by TV-Free America, which then became the centre for SCREEN-TIME Awareness. Since 2010, the name has officially been Screen Free Week. It is an annual event which campaigns to have screens turned off and life turned on. Reading, daydreaming, exploring, enjoying nature, and spending time with family and friends are all activities encouraged. This year, Screen Free Week runs from the 3rd May until 9th May. The objective of the week is to create as much opportunity as possible to reflect on our relationships with our electronic devices, put them down, and enjoy all things natural and social.
The objective of the week is to create as much opportunity as possible to reflect on our relationships with our electronic devices, put them down, and enjoy all things natural and social
HERE ARE SOME UNIQUE AND THOUGHTFUL IDEAS, PERFECT FOR YOUR SCREEN FREE WEEK
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• Write a letter to an elderly family member.
• Go on a picnic, and make all the food yourself from scratch.
• Lay a blanket out in your backyard and stargaze.
• Call a friend who’s going through hard times to let them
• Read aloud to your kids, even if they think they’re
know that you’re thinking of them.
too old for it.
• Go find a local body of water. A river, pond or ocean will
• Recreate your favourite restaurant meal at home.
restore your spirits.
• Make your own postcards and mail them to far
• Write a short story from start to finish.
flung friends.
• Challenge your kids to create their own board games, and
• Make a flower bouquet from your own garden, even if
then be willing to play the games.
it’s mostly greenery.
• Take a nature walk in your own neighbourhood and take
• Go for a long hike.
close up photos of the plants and flowers.
PROPERTY NEWS
WE’RE BUZZING ABOUT WORLD BEE DAY World Bee Day is on the 20th May 2021
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s it does every year, World Bee Day will take place on May 20th, to coincide with the birthday of Anton Janša, who pioneered modern beekeeping techniques in the 18th Century. And with the pandemic having negatively impacted the beekeeping industry, it is more vital than ever to raise the awareness of the importance of bees.
WHAT ARE POLLINATORS?
Pollinators are animals that transfer pollen between plants, and they play a huge role in allowing food crops to reproduce. There are different pollinator species in the world, but some of the most common are butterflies, bats, hummingbirds, and of course, bees.
WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?
The most popular pollinators in the world are bees. In fact, pollinators, like bees, impact 35% of the world’s agricultural land, meaning that over a third of food has been at least partly pollinated by animals. And it’s more than just food that pollinators are useful for. Pollination also contributes to the creation of medicines, biofuels, fibres such as cotton and linen, and construction materials.
But the 25,000 to 30,000 species of bee are under threat. Due to human impacts, current extinction rates are 100 to 1000 times higher than normal. If this trend were to continue, many crops such as fruit and nuts would become less readily available, meaning imbalances to the human diet, and a lack of biodiversity.
WHAT CAN I DO?
Protecting bees can start at home, and it’s really easy to get involved! Planting bee-friendly plants like daisies and heather can help to attract them to your garden, and once they’re present, do your bit by helping them to flourish. You can achieve this by leaving a dish filled with water and pebbles, in case they get thirsty. Furthermore, by leaving a section of your garden to grow wild, this will provide the bees with much-needed shade when the weather heats up. It’s also critical to not use pesticides, fungicides or herbicides anywhere in your garden, as these can prove extremely harmful to bees. And, if you know one, choose to buy your honey from a beekeeper, and help local businesses! If you want to go even further, you can visit ‘worldbeeday.org’, and take part in one of their annual meetings, which will be held virtually this year.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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THE FINALS
COUNTDOWN It’s showdown time for football’s major prizes
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n what seems a faster time than it takes VAR to sort out an offside decision, the football season heads into its ‘business end’ with trophies and relegation issues on the line. The compressed season has had more than its share of twists and turns, although there is an air of inevitability about where the honours are heading. Take the major domestic knockout trophies, the Emirates FA Cup and the Carabao Cup, for example. Neither has been won by a side outside the Premier League’s Big Six since 2013, when Wigan Athletic and Swansea City respectively had the audacity to buck the trend that suggested football was becoming a playground for the rich and mega-rich. Normal service has, sadly, been resumed, to the extent that since Wigan’s intervention, the FA Cup has become the property of just four clubs – Arsenal, who have won it four times, Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City. And it will take a brave man to bet against that stranglehold being broken at Wembley on May 15th. (To further deflate the romantic notions of anyone hoping for an upset, since Wimbledon’s mind-boggling triumph in 1988, only three other teams – Everton in 1995, Portsmouth in 2008 and Wigan – have prevented the Cup from falling into the clutches of a Big Six which also embraces Liverpool and Tottenham).
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The Carabao Cup is, of course, an even cosier clique: Since Swansea, it has been won by either City or a side managed by Jose Mourinho. Such is the Premier League’s clout and perceived strength, it is tempting to think that dominance has spread across the English Channel into the European competitions. Indeed, the same names keep occurring… only they are Spanish. In the last 10 years, there have been just two English winners of the Champions League, Europe’s premier club competition - Liverpool in 2019 and Chelsea in 2012 – although Tottenham, in the all-Premier League final two years ago, Manchester United and Liverpool have reached the ultimate showdown. In that time, Real Madrid have won it four times, with Barcelona and Bayern Munich scoring two triumphs apiece, although this year’s final on May 29th is at the Ataturk Stadium in Istanbul, a venue etched deep into the Merseysiders’ folklore. It was there, in 2005, that the Reds overturned a 3-0 deficit to beat AC Milan on penalties to complete one of the great sporting comebacks. Of all the competitions, the marathon slog that is the Europa League could be the one to be wearing seldom-applied colours after the final in Poland’s stunning Gdansk Stadium on May 26th. Sevilla (four-time champions) and Atletico Madrid (twice) were notable absentees from the latter rounds, leaving the stage clear for unheralded champions.
BUZZINGLY GOOD FOOD Celebrate World Bee day with these wonderfully sticky honey recipes
1kg carrots 25g butter 2 tbsp clear honey 5 lemon thyme sprigs, leaves picked, plus extra to serve (use ordinary thyme if you can’t find lemon)
3 thyme sprigs , leaves roughly chopped 2-3 rosemary sprigs, leaves roughly chopped 2 fat garlic cloves , lightly bashed ½ tsp black peppercorns 4 duck leg (about 800g) 750g duck fat 2 bay leaves sunflower oil., for covering the duck, if needed 4 tbsp clear honey
HONEY & THYME CARROTS Keep this succulent recipe for when your homegrown carrots have started to produce. Tip the carrots into a wide shallow pan so they are no more than a double layer. Add the butter, honey and about 500ml or 2cm of water, the leaves from the thyme and a pinch of salt. Partly cover with a lid, turn the heat up high and boil everything down until the carrots are tender, cooked through and sticky with honey. If they aren’t tender enough by the time the water has evaporated, add a splash more. Once glazed, turn them over in the sticky juices and serve, with extra thyme on top.
HONEY-ROAST CONFIT OF DUCK Serve your carrots with this wonderful French classic with meltingly tender meat with crispy skin. Mix together the thyme, rosemary, garlic and peppercorns with 2 tbsp flaky sea salt. Tip half into a large baking dish, top with the duck legs, then sprinkle over the remaining salt and massage well into the duck. Cover with cling film and chill for 24 hrs. Heat oven to 140C/120C fan/gas 1. Take the duck legs out of the dish, wipe off the salt mixture with kitchen paper, then set aside. Melt the duck fat in a flameproof casserole dish until just bubbling. Add the bay leaves and duck legs, and bring to a gentle simmer. The legs should be completely covered, so top up with olive oil if needed. Transfer the dish to the oven and cook for 2 hrs 30 mins. To check whether the duck is cooked, insert a skewer into the thickest part of a leg – it should go in easily. Leave the duck to cool in the fat. Can now be chilled for up to 2 weeks. While the duck cools, make the Puy lentils & pancetta (see Goes well with, right). Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Lift the duck legs from the dish, scrape off the fat and place, skin-side up, in a shallow roasting tin.
All recipes from the BBC Goodfood website Images for illustrative purposes only
Spoon 1 tbsp honey over each duck leg and roast for 25-30 mins until the skin is browned and sticky. Serve with the Puy lentils & pancetta.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
15
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Oakwood Road, Bricket Wood £230,000
JW&Co are pleased to offer this one bedroom GROUND floor apartment in the charming village of Bricket Wood. The property is finished to a nice, modern standard. The property comprises a good sized bedroom with built in storage, Kitchen with breakfast bar, bathroom and a generous sized Living Room. This property is offered CHAIN FREE. This property is conveniently located close to bus links into Watford and St Albans. Short walk to a local parade of shops and a friendly local pub. Great links to both M1 and M25 motorways.
Oundle Avenue, Bushey £650,000
Well-presented THREE BEDROOM TWO BATHROOM SEMI DETACHED BUNGALOW situated within this highly desirable location off Chiltern Avenue within proximity to transport facilities. The accommodation comprises of entrance hall, family room with vaulted ceiling and bi folding doors to rear garden, utility cupboard, 20 8 kitchen/breakfast room, opening to sitting room, shower room/ WC, three double bedrooms and family bathroom. Outside the property benefits from a rear garden with summer house and and driveway with off street parking for numerous vehicles.
bushey@jwandco.co.uk | stalbans@jwandco.co.uk | parkstreet@jwandco.co.uk | londoncolney@jwandco.co.uk
St Albans 01727 844444 Bushey Heath 020 8950 3434 Park Street 01727 875555 London Colney 01727 824311
Pinner Road, Oxhey £479,950
Double fronted THREE BEDROOM TERRACE HOUSE situated in the sought Oxhey Village. This property is ideally located for commuters with Bushey Station within walking distance with its fast train to London Euston (18mins). The accommodation comprises 18 10 lounge/dining room, opening to a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room with integrated appliances, three bedrooms and modern family bathroom. Outside the property benefits from a well maintained 6- rear garden. Further benefits include gas fired central heating (new boiler in 2017) and double glazing throughout.
Aubrey Avenue, London Colney Guide Price £500,000
A larger than average four bedroom two bathroom extended end of terrace house situated within a peaceful cul-de-sac and within easy reach of local amenities and well regarded schools. The property offers spacious and versatile accommodation, off-street parking and a private rear garden. The accommodation comprises, entrance hall, living room, dining room, conservatory, kitchen/breakfast room and family room. On the first floor you have four bedrooms and two bathrooms.
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Dunston Hill, Tring OIEO £600,000
A beautifully presented four double bedroom semi-detached house which was completely refurbished in 2016 including a double storey extension, providing well-balanced accommodation throughout. Situated within walking distance to Tring High Street with its numerous amenities. The property benefits to include, large entrance hall, separate lounge, study/playroom, fully fitted kitchen/diner, bi-fold doors leading onto a south eastly facing rear garden, utility room with downstairs W.C and four-piece bathroom suite. Outside you have gated off street parking for several cars and a well-maintained rear garden.
Dunstable Road, Markyate Guide Price £825,000
Situated on a plot of approx 7 acres, New Lodge has the potential to create a delightful home and offers stunning views across open countryside. Nestled away at the old entrance to Cell Park sits this charming 3 bedroom detached cottage which encompasses all the character of the rural setting. Internally, the ground floor accommodation offers kitchen, utility room, sitting room and bathroom with three bedrooms on the first floor. Externally, at the property entrance are tall brick pillars and wrought-iron gates, driveway with parking for multiple cars, rear garden laid to lawn and approx. 7 acres of additional land.
bushey@jwandco.co.uk | stalbans@jwandco.co.uk | parkstreet@jwandco.co.uk | londoncolney@jwandco.co.uk
St Albans 01727 844444 Bushey Heath 020 8950 3434 Park Street 01727 875555 London Colney 01727 824311
Thamesdale, London Colney £550,000
A fantastic opportunity to put your own stamp on this perfectly place four bedroom detached house situated within easy reach of London Colney Shopping Fields and great motorway links. The property occupies the corner plot which offers a larger than average rear garden and potential for expansion S.T.P.P. Available chain free.
Merry Hill Road, Bushey £415,000
MODERNISED AND WELL PRESENTED THREE DOUBLE BEDROOM FIRST FLOOR FLAT, situated in popular Location approximately from the high road in Bushey Heath with its shops, bus stops and local amenities. The property has been improved by the current owners & is presented in excellent decorative order throughout. The accommodation comprises, lounge/dining room, high gloss fitted kitchen with integrated appliances, three double bedrooms, luxury bathroom, garage in block and SHARE OF FREEHOLD.
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David Smith
Tom Smith
Jack Smith
David is a fully qualified chartered surveyor who has 35 years’ experience in dealing with all aspects of property including sales, lettings and property management. He has worked exclusively In the St Albans area for the last 20 years and has been active in dealing with new developments and conversion schemes for many large financial institutions. He is a keen sportsman and is a single figure handicap golfer. Email: davidsmith@jwandco.co.uk
Tom has had a successful career as a professional footballer and has always had an interest in property. The purchase of two existing businesses with extensive local interests was too tempting to resist. This gives him the opportunity to combine his football career with sales and property management. Tom lives in Berkhamsted with his wife Nina and three children. Email: tomsmith@jwandco.co.uk
Jack is very proud to be involved in this exciting and vibrant Company. He has always had an interest in property and is delighted to be able to transfer his skills from professional football to this new area. “We have a very strong team of employees and I am looking forward to working closely with them”. Jack has played professional football for Swindon, Watford, Millwall and AFC Wimbledon and currently lives with his wife Sophie and beloved dog, Lola in Berkhamsted. Email: jacksmith@jwandco.co.uk
CEO
Chairman
Director
PARK STREET
Danielle Saville
Ruth Bearne MNAEA Sales Director
Trainee Sales Negotiator
Ruth joined JW&Co Langleys in 2014 as a Having joined the company in 2018 Danielle Trainee and has quickly progressed to a Sales Director at our Park Street branch. has already flourished in her role as a Trainee Negotiator bringing an enthusiastic Ruth passed her NFOPP exams with flying colours and is now a member of the approach to sales in addition to bringing National Association of Estate Agents; buyers and sellers together. Under the with over 7 years in the property industry, management of Tim Griggs, she hopes to climb the ranks in the company and become she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. Ruth’s interests a fully-fledged member of the National include travelling to new destinations, Association of Estate Agents, helping her bring an unrivalled level of professionalism good food and wine with friends and to her clients. Danielle enjoys spending family and loves to cook. her spare time with her young family and Email: ruthbearne@jwandco.co.uk reading, her favourite author being Deborah Harkness. Email: daniellesaville@jwandco.co.uk
BUSHEY HEATH
Tim Griggs Sales Director
Tim is Bushey born and bred after attending local schools and still lives in the Bushey area. In 1998 Tim joined JW&Co Langleys. and brings with him his seventeen years’ experience and continues to bring the company forward and develop the business with his initiative and marketing ideas. Whilst Tim currently works in the Bushey Heath office, he has also previously established offices in Bushey and Oxhey village making his knowledge of the surrounding area second to none. Tim goes the extra mile for his clients and builds up great rapport with those he works with. Email: timgriggs@jwandco.co.uk
Nick Tidball
Sales Negotiator Nick started his career in estate agency here at JW & Co twelve years ago, working alongside Tim Griggs across multiple offices. Having left the company in 2006 Nick pursued his career in the buoyant London market selling luxurious homes in Hampstead and surrounding areas. Re-joining the team in our Bushey Heath office for 2017, he returns with a wealth of knowledge and experience within the industry, keen to help drive the business forward. Born and bred in Bushey, Nick’s extensive local knowledge and history of the area is an asset to building new and existing relationships when both valuing and selling properties. Email: nicktidball@jwandco.co.uk
bushey@jwandco.co.uk | stalbans@jwandco.co.uk | parkstreet@jwandco.co.uk | londoncolney@jwandco.co.uk
Bushey Heath 020 8950 3434 St Albans 01727 844444 Park Street 01727 875555 London Colney 01727 824311
ST ALBANS
Meet our team
MNAEA Sales Director
Lettings Manager
Lauren King
Catherine Grimer
Mark joined JW&Co Langleys in 2011 as a Senior Sales Negotiator. He quickly progressed to become Sales Director of both St Albans and London Colney. As a member of the National Associations of Estate Agents, Mark takes an active part in ensuring that the emphasis on training and the expected high levels of customer service, are being delivered. Having worked within the property industry for 15 years, he brings a wealth of experience and insight to the company. He has an excellent knowledge of the St Albans area, and lives locally. In his spare time Mark enjoys travelling, running, going to the gym, watching F1 and dreams of one day, attending the Monaco Grand Prix.
Lauren joined our company as a trainee in 2011 and has worked her way through the ranks. Lauren quickly became a very valuable member of our team. Lauren is now part of our busy lettings team and is a successful negotiator, and prides herself on being helpful, professional and efficient. As a local, born and raised in St Albans, she is an ideal team member, able to offer insight into the local market and what the area could offer you. Email: laurenking@jwandco.co.uk
Catherine joined the company in September 2018 as a Trainee Sales Negotiator in our St Albans Branch. St Albans born and bred, attendee of some of the top local schools - she has an extensive knowledge of the area and is a strong advocate for living in Hertfordshire. A variety of roles in both corporate companies and experience working abroad, has helped her to cultivate a number of different skills. Her knowledge of the local area, work experience and a penchant for property has resulted in Catherine quickly becoming an active and valuable member of staff. Email: catherinegrimer@jwandco.co.uk
Debbie King
Jack Cotton Sales Negotiator
Trainee Sales Negotiator
Debbie joined JW&Co Langleys in March 2015, having previously worked in St Albans in an accounts-based role. Having lived in and around St Albans all her life, Debbie is very familiar with the local fraternity and also brings valuable accounting and administrative skills to the Company, across our Lettings and Sales businesses. Debbie is also involved in processing all Tenant and Landlord payments for our rental properties. Keeping with the family trend, Debbie’s daughter Lauren is also employed in our St Albans office
Jack joined JW & Co Langleys in November 2019. He has worked within the property industry for the past 5 years and has experience in working in both corporate and independent agencies. Maturity shines through Jack, despite his young appearance. He prides himself on providing clients with the best customer service with his personable & friendly approach for both potential buyers and vendors. Jack lives in Kings Langley and is a big football fan, following Arsenal FC. He has a vast interest in music and is a keen gig/ festival-goer.
James is our new trainee negotiator, with high aspirations and drive to become an extremely successful individual in the JW&Co Langleys Company. James has gaged a good understanding of the Hertfordshire region living withing many areas of Hertfordshire. James has also just completed his full education studying Business, PE and Maths and is now ready to work towards his career as an estate agent. He is bringing youth, new approaches and teamwork to the company, from his love of sport, he has participated in football, rugby, cricket, basketball, boxing and goes to the gym regularly. James is a peoples person and focuses on achieving his client’s needs whilst providing a professional service
Mark Antony Saville
Property Negotiator
LONDON COLNEY
Email: marksaville@jwandco.co.uk
Accounts Manager
Email: debbieking@jwandco.co.uk
James Simmons
Email: jackcotton@jwandco.co.uk
Email: jamessimmons@jwandco.co.uk
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Scale of Charges SCALE OF CHARGES FULL MANAGEMENT SERVICE
INTRODUCTION ONLY SERVICE PLUS RENT COLLECTION
INTRODUCTION ONLY SERVICE
12% (INC VAT)
11% (INC VAT)
10% (INC VAT)
amount to be deducted from the monthly rental payments received by the Agent
amount to be deducted from the monthly rental payments received by the Agent
of the rent collected for the first six months. Payable for each individual letting where the tenant is introduced through JW&Co Langleys, hereafter referred to as ‘the Agent’
CONTINGENCY RESERVE
A minimum reserve amount of £150.00 (amount to be confirmed) will need to be obtained prior to the initiation of the tenancy as a contingency in the event of any maintenance work. The contingency reserve will be deducted from the first month’s rent and will be held by the Agent. The fees under the above service are payable when any one individual or organisation enters into an agreement to rent the Property as a result of our promotion, introduction, or viewings conducted by the Agent.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
FEE
Tenancy set up and referencing (managed) Inc deposit registration
£230.00 (INC VAT)
Tenancy set up and referencing (let only) Inc deposit registration
£275.00 (INC VAT)
Deposit Registration Fee
£60.00 (INC VAT)
Inventory Service plus check-in & smoke alarm and sensor testing
From £190.00 (INC VAT)
Inventory update plus check-in & smoke alarm and sensor testing
From £150.00 (INC VAT)
Checkout Fee (payable at the end of each tenancy)
From £115.00 (INC VAT)
Legionella Risk Assessment
£130.00 (INC VAT)
Property inspections (Introduction Only Service)
£60.00 (INC VAT)
Utility set up (Introduction Only)
£60.00 (INC VAT)
Energy Performance Certificate
£90.00 (INC VAT)
Annual Gas Safety Certificate
From £75.00 (INC VAT)
Annual Gas Safety Certificate and service
From £135 (INC VAT)
Section 21 Notice
£108.00 (INC VAT)
Section 8 Notice
£108.00 (INC VAT)
Accelerated Possession Order & Court Attendance Rent & Legal Protection for a period of 6 Months
From £840.00 (INC VAT) £96.00 (INC VAT)
Rent & Legal Protection for a period of 12 Months
£192.00 (INC VAT)
Rent & Legal Protection Renewal for a period of 6 Months
£121.00 (INC VAT)
Rent & Legal Protection Renewal for a period of 12 Months Short Lets (Of a duration less than 6 months)
£217.00 (INC VAT) 18% of the rent due (INC VAT)
Tenancy Renewal (Managed)
£90.00 (INC VAT)
Tenancy Renewal (Let only Service)
£250.00 (INC VAT)
Change of tenant
£250.00 (INC VAT)
Arranging Contractors/Maintenance Works (let only)
£45.00 (INC VAT)
PAT testing for the first five appliances
We are required by law to disclose all the charges you will incur during the set up procedure. Please do not hesitate to contact us and one of our dedicated team members will be happy to talk you through the process.
FEES IN RELATION TO A TENANCY THAT STARTED PRIOR TO THE TENANT FEE BAN ON THE 1ST JUNE 2019, UNTIL THE 1ST JUNE 2020 l Checkout fee – from £60 - £102 INC VAT (as stated in the tenancy agreement) l Renewal fee £90 INC VAT (as stated in the tenancy agreement)
TENANCY SET UP & DEPOSIT l Holding fee – one weeks rent that can be refunded or taken off the first month’s rent/deposit l Security Deposit – Up to five weeks rent
ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS FOR TENANTS
l Higher rent payment for pets – additional £50 rent per calendar month l Lost keys / security devices from £2.50 £175 INC VAT
From £150 (INC VAT) price on quotation From: £60 (INC VAT)
l Early exit charge £50 INC VAT
l Tenancy set up and referencing l Deposit protection fee l Inventory make/update and check-in l Checkout Fee l Rent & Legal protection for 12 months
Where the Landlord cancels the Agent’s instruction to provide a management service the Agent will charge. The Landlord will then be subject to to pay a fee of 8.4% (Inc VAT) of the agreed rent for the period not exceeding six months from the commencement date of the tenancy. VAT is payable at the prevailing rate on all our fees. In accordance with consumer legislation it is quoted as included in the prices stated above.
jwandco.co.uk
You should always choose your agent with care, only considering those displaying these trusted accreditations which provide the peace of mind that comes with the knowledge your money is protected and your agent abides by a strict code of conduct.
l Change of sharer / amendment to contract £50 INC VAT (plus the cost of any charges incurred by the company)
DISCOUNTED BUNDLE OPTION £750 (INC VAT) FOR THE SERVICES LISTED BELOW MINIMUM FEE
With nearly 40 years’ of experience and full membership of UKALA, the national Lettings Association (NLA) and The Property Ombudsman, JW&Co Langleys are experts in all aspects of lettings. We care about our Tenants and for that reason we pride ourselves on the level of service we provide.
l Fee for late rent payments – £TBC (up to 3% above the Bank of England base rate)
In the event that a dispute arises under the tenancy deposit scheme, we will undertake all of the administrative responsibilities in resolving said dispute (Introduction Only Service)
Electrical Fixed Wire Testing
TENANT PERMITTED PAYMENTS AS PER THE TENANT FEE ACT 2019
COMPANY LETS l Set up fee £450 INC VAT T&C – A holding deposit is non-refundable when an application is rejected due to incorrect/misleading information given prior to the commencement of references.
Here’s what our customers have to say...
Bob & Pauline
There were no problems; we were kept informed at all times and there was a satisfactory result for everyone. We would recommend this agent to family and friends.
Heidi
I heard of JW&Co Langleys through word of mouth. They’re a real part of the community so they were a natural choice for us to approach. In terms of what we’re looking for in our agent is someone looking out for us and anticipating and helping us with the needs of the whole process - and that’s what Neil gave us, including liaising with our solicitors, and really advocated us through the process.
Carol
I’ve always dealt with them and found their standards to be very, very high and they’ve always been extremely helpful and professional whenever I’ve dealt with them in the past.
Jude
I think the reason JW&Co differs from other lettings agent is that you really do get that personal touch and it’s all a very relaxed situation.
Mark
We met a couple of agents within our area and felt that JW&Co stood out, just because of their professionalism. As soon as they walked through the door, and the advice and the preparation they came with, is what stood out for us.
jwandco.co.uk
Market movers
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St Albans T: 01727 844444 E: stalbans@jwandco.co.uk
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Park Street T: 01727 875555 E: parkstreet@jwandco.co.uk
Bushey Heath T: 020 8950 3434 E: bushey@jwandco.co.uk
London Colney T: 01727 824311 E: londoncolney@jwandco.co.uk