Klvillagermay2014

PRICE 30p ISSUE No: 264 May 2014

A

the monthly newspaper for Kings Langley and surrounding district - since 1992

IN THIS MONTH'S ISSUE

HRH Princess Anne Visits Pickles Folly

Community Award Winners

t the Annual Parish Meeting held on Thursday 10th April, Ron Smith, Chairman of the Parish Council, along with Gerry Angiolini congratulated and presented all the nominees for the Community Award with a framed certificate for their efforts within the village.

The following are the actual nominations:

Eric Martin

Eric is active in an exceptionally wide range of community activities. He is currently chairman of the Kings Langley Charities and of the Pastoral Care and Development Team of All Saints Church, of which he was also a treasurer for a while.

He is a past chairman of the

2014 Community Award Winners

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Take Away Service

Tel: 01923 263823/262405

Come and visit our Pool and Spa Showroom

Spas available from ÂŁ2,599 Open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm and Saturday 9am - 3pm (Winter 10am - 2pm) www.chiswellpools.co.uk Email: Sales@chiswellpools.co.uk Visit us at:

126 Hempstead Road, Kings Langley, WD4 8AL

Telephone 01923 269822 / 262908 THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 1

Parish Council News New Councillor

The Parish Council is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Councillor, John Morrish, who takes the place vacated

by John Biggs, who left the Council recently because he has moved outside the village. John has lived in the parish for over 30 years and led the Youth Club for 25 years, was a Community Award winner in 2011, and is actively involved in village groups.

Village Garden

the Great Park estate, then it makes their journey rather more difficult. Your help in this is appreciated. (PS. Parking over one of these is an offence prosecutable by the police.).

Dog-Litter Bags

The Parish Council provides dog-litter bags, free of charge to people who live or walk their dogs in Kings Langley. These are available from the Council office. Please clean up after your dog and deposit the bags in an appropriate bin. It is particularly important not to leave bags anywhere near farms, as farm animals can choke on them. There are still too many dog owners who are not cleaning up after their dogs who need to be encouraged to make use of the bags.

Dacorum Borough Council

There has been a lot of work in the garden over the past year or so, mainly to remove “deadwood” and ivy etc, and there is lots more still to do, the plan being to open and brighten it and introduce more colour. The garden is now more visible from the main road from where you should be able to see the latest addition, a 6m x 4m shrub / flower bed containing around 150 plants. It’s early days, but the flowers should be in full bloom soon. All this hard work has been carried out by the Village Warden, so well done and thank you to him.

And our thanks also to RES who gave the Council a grant towards these and other plants.

Green Park / The Nap – a repeat request

Some of you may know this as Blackwell Park. In recent weeks, there has been a lot of damage to the public toilets, walls and a number of items of furniture have been dumped (fly-tipped), then moved around and sat on by some of the younger members of the community. If you want to do something about this, please report it to Dacorum Borough Council (see details below).

Kerb Drops

We are sure that many villagers will be aware that we have a number of disabled or partially disabled residents who use mobility scooters. What you may not realise is that they rely heavily on the small kerb drops at road junctions to cross those roads and if these are blocked by vehicles, and they often are, particularly on

01442 228000 is now the single number for all contact with Dacorum Borough Council.

It is now automated with voice recognition. So for your Housing needs, Council Tax enquiries etc and other issues, such as litter / fly-tipping, illegal parking, abandoned vehicles, overgrown hedges and missed collections, this is the number to call. If you wish to contact the environmental team, you can still do this via email cleansafegreen@dacorum. gov.uk, the website www. dacorum.gov.uk/cleansafegreen or Clean, Safe & Green, Cupid Green Depot, Redbourn Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 7BA.

Hertfordshire County Council (Herts Highways)

For highways issues, such as potholes, unlit lamp columns, etc., contact Hertfordshire County Council (Highways) on 0300 123 4047, or on-line at: http://www. hertsdirect.org/actweb/hfr/ Contact the Police on 101 for all non-emergency calls in Hertfordshire, including vehicles that are parked dangerously and / or causing an obstruction. You can also contact the members of the Community Policing Team on this number.

Forthcoming Meetings Full Council – Tuesdays – 3rd June Planning & Licensing Committee – Tuesdays – 20th May, 3rd & 17th June

Kings Langley Parish Council, Charter Court, Vicarage Lane, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 9HR. Office hours: 09:30 to 12:30.

Telephone: 01923 261828.

E: klpc@kingslangley-pc.gov.uk, www.kingslangley-pc.gov.uk

PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

Warden's News

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lue tits in the Parish Council Offices situation report, as promised; there aren’t any! Several people have stopped me whilst I’ve been out and about in the village and have shared with me their blue tit stories. It appears that our experience is not unusual, lots of activity and then at the last minute the birds disappear, perhaps they didn’t like the view?

I wonder if it is the same pair of blue tits who have moved in to one of the nesting boxes in the Village Garden. The view there is, I must be honest, a significant improvement on the view at the Parish Council Offices, particularly as all the flowers have now been planted in the new flower bed.

If you’ve not seen it, the Village Garden and/or its new flower bed, then next time you have 5 minutes to spare why not pop in and have a look?

It’s at the junction of Church Lane and the Watford Road, opposite the Rose and Crown and is just like Arkwright’s; open all hours.

Not unusually for this column, I now have to make an apology. I’m not sure if the findings of the Leveson Inquiry extend to this revered

publication, particularly when the issue under discussion is “Who made the chocolate cake for the firefighters’ sponsored car wash?” I thanked Terry’s Mum for her efforts in this regard last month, whereas I should have thanked Will’s Mum for the chocolate cake.

However, I do need to thank Terry’s Mum for the Easter themed cup cakes we had a couple of weeks ago at our weekly Drill Night, they were very much appreciated.

That is not to say that the chocolate cake that Will’s Mum made wasn’t appreciated, or was appreciated less than Terry’s Mum’s cupcakes, far from it, they were both appreciated equally and consumed with identical amounts of enthusiasm and speed.

(NB. It is always a good idea to keep the cake makers happy; they are a very sensitive crowd and need to be nurtured.)

By the time you get to read this the Carnival on the common will only be a few weeks away, so I’m off to train the Warden’s dog in anticipation of there being a disobedience class of some sort in the dog show!

George

Coffee Morning A

coffee morning will be held on Wednesday 4th June at 10.30am at

the Zion Chapel, Waterside.

Everyone is welcome

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FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

. . . continued from front page -

Community Award Winners

KL and District Probus Club, for several years secretary of Kings Langley Christian Aid and treasurer of the Good Neighbours Assn. He is also heavily involved in the running of the Evergreens Club.

Eric discharges all these functions with balance, wisdom and sound judgement. Experience gained in a senior management position with Kodak has equipped him well to guide colleagues through complex and challenging situations in the voluntary and charitable sectors. He is trusted as a highly competent and painstaking person.

Consequently, his services are much sought after. Some people commit themselves whole heartedly to one or two major concerns; Eric makes significant contributions to the KL community and beyond on several fronts.

Nominated by: Alan Noyes.

and received grants from trust fund organisations which have enabled him to improve the hut and its facilities. Peter has also organised quiz evenings to raise money. The improvements are double glazing to the south side of the hut and a wider access to accommodate wheelchairs, also a new and strong emergency door on the north side. The kitchen has been modernised and upgraded and the toilets are to be modernised when funds are available. The other improvement is a large and high metal mesh fence, surrounding the hut which hopefully has made it secure and vandal proof with locked gates.

I trust this information will give you an insight into all the hard work Peter has put into this project for the continuation of the guiding movement in our lovely village.

Nominated by: Mrs E V Hitchcock

Bala – Postmaster

In recognition of his work in maintaining and recording the history of Kings Langley in his work with the History Society, but in particular with the publications on farms, shops, public houses, transport, etc Nominated by: B & J McLeod Members of the KL Local History & Museum Society would like to nominate Alan Penwarden for the Community Award.

He has made a considerable contribution to the community in his long standing membership of the Society joining in 1969 its first year and as a past Chairman and Council Member for many years. He has also had an association with KL Players for very many years. As a senior archivist for this society, he has written and produced seven

Since the closure of the sorting office, Bala has provided the undelivered letters/parcels service for KL residents thus avoiding the need to go to Watford, an impossible task for some. Royal Mail consistently fall down in delivering parcels to Bala, but he cheerfully manages both non and at times massive late deliveries.

The service he and his staff provide in postal and banking services keep Kings Langley going.

Nominated by: David Peacock

Peter Kircher

I wish to nominate Peter as he has worked tirelessly for the upkeep and vast improvements to the KL guide hut over a period of years. He has applied for

Alan Penwarden

Contacts for

The Villager Editorial Julie Barton, Charter Court, Vicarage Lane, Kings Langley, WD4 9HR Phone: 01923 270160 e: julie@villagernews.co.uk Advertising Julie Barton, Charter Court, Vicarage Lane, Kings Langley, WD4 9HR Phone: 01923 270160 e: julie@villagernews.co.uk Reporter Joy Mann Phone: 01923 264298 Accounts e: accounts@villagernews.co.uk Sign up for our additional weekly email, full of lots of useful informtion for Abbots Langley, Kings Langley and surrounding areas.

Contact events@villagernews.co.uk to be added to the mailing list or sign up through our website:

www.villagernews.co.uk

Sport Editor Tony Thompson The Hornets, Croft lane, Chipperfield. WD4 9DU Tel: 01923 265690 Features Andrew Selby, 8 Belham Road Kings Langley WD4 8BY Tel: 01923 264479 Collection points for copy in Abbots Langley Eve Durtnall, 1 Popes Road, Abbots Langley or Abbey Pharmacy High St., Abbots Langley The Publishers take all reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of the content of The Villager but cannot accept responsibility or be held liable for any errors or claims made by advertisers. The Publishers also ask you to note that they do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors Reproduction in whole or part prohibited without permission

Copy deadline for next issue: strictly Friday 23rd May

booklets on the history of the village which have provided authoritative information for everyone in the community and beyond. This is an exceptional achievement.

Nominated by: Richard Garnett Harper and members of the KL Local History & Museum Society.

Donald & Sheila Abbott

Sheila and Donald Abbott moved to Kings Langley in the early 1990's. It was not long before both Sheila and Donald became involved with many aspects of life in the village.

They are both members of All Saint's Church and over the years have actively been involved with much of the life in the Church including serving on the PCC and in many other different roles. Sheila organised the last major flower festival at the Church in 2012. Donald was also a Parish Councillor and Chairman for some time.

They both also became quickly involved with Kings Langley Good Neighbours and Sheila has been a committee member for over 20 years. Sheila is a Careline operator, co-ordinates home visits and interviews new volunteers whilst Donald is a volunteer driver, helping those in our village who need transport to medical appointments in the area and to the Evergreen club socials.

Sheila was Vice Chairman of Good Neighbours from 2005 until she was made Vice President in 2013. In the past two years Sheila has also been an active volunteer with the Evergreen Club as

Receptionist welcoming the members as they arrive for each event. Sheila is also a member of the Patient Participation Steering Group at Haverfield surgery. Everything that Donald and Sheila do is carried out with friendliness, efficiency and compassion.

Nominated by: Ann Martin

Bob Davis and Taylors Tools

I would like to nominate Bob Davies and Taylors Tools for all the support given, not only to the Parish Council, but to lots of other charities and organisations in the village. They are always unstintingly generous in giving valuable raffle prizes to a whole host of charity events that take part in the village. The firm is a great asset to the village and as such I have no hesitation in nominating them for a Community Award.

Nominated by: Cllr Gerry Angiolini

Barry Denmead

I would like to nominate Barry Denmead for all of the financial support that he has been given to the Parish Council over very many years. Wilden Services Ltd sponsor the Parish Council’s Christmas Lights Festival every year, which without this generous donation would not be the very successful event it is. We would certainly not be able to stage such a large festival without their support therefore I have no hesitation in nominating Barry for a Community Award.

Nominated by: Cllr Gerry Angiolini

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NEW MOWER RANGE NOW IN STOCK Open Monday - Friday 8 -5.30pm, Saturday 8 - 12 noon Home Park Works, off Station Road, Kings Langley, WD4 8LW

01923 265211

www.oliverlandpower.co.uk THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 3

Parliamentary Diary Backing local business

It was interesting to visit Mechanix Direct in Apsley’s Kents Avenue recently. I met with owner Gavin Woodley to discuss the challenges facing his business and his plans for the future. There are changes in vehicle registration in UK and Europe and it is always good to hear first-hand how these will impact on local businesses.

Despite the recession, Gavin has been able to expand his business into new larger premises which means

they can now service cars and vans.

The Apsley Industrial Estate is establishing itself as a hub for independent vehicle MoT, servicing and parts companies, with six companies already on the site.

You can find out more about Mechanix Direct on their website: http://www.mechanixdirect. co.uk/ Another Dacorum business that has undergone an expansion and rebranding is the Red Squirrel Brewing Company which is based at Boxted Farm. I was very

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

pleased to be invited to officially re-open the brewery after the refurbishment and thoroughly enjoyed a pint of their ‘London Porter’ afterwards!

The brewery’s ‘London Porter’ ale was recently judged bronze in its category in the 2013/14 London and South East Area Champion Beer of Britain competition and CAMRA presented the award at the re-opening.

If you’ve never been – I would certainly recommend a visit on one of their tours. www.redsquirrelbrewery. co.uk

YOUR MP Working for you Need help with a problem?

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Please phone Mike's office for an appointment

Garrad House Said Goodbye To A Very Special Volunteer …

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or the last 11 years Rick Hogger has been Chair of the Trustees at Abbeyfield’s extra sheltered housing unit for older people, in Kings Langley.

Rick used to live in the village and after he first retired he looked around for something to fill the gap left by not working.

He tried golf but ‘found it boring’. He bought a canal boat and this helped but the winters were long and good fortune washed him onto the shores of Garrad House.

Originally as a volunteer handyman but his talents were soon spotted and he was encouraged to join the Trustees. Eventually he took over the helm and has been running Garrad House ever since, on a voluntary basis.

Rick said he was motivated to volunteer because he thought it really important to ‘have a place like this in Kings Langley for older people who do not want to be lonely and wish to remain independent and still living in the community ‘.

He said his greatest challenge was bringing

Garrad House up to date.

He brought his IT skills and knowledge of running a small company and worked closely with Sheila Brown the administrator. He recruited a great staff team who were not only good at their roles (cooks, sleepover staff etc) but were kind and caring to the residents.

Rick also attracted a group of enthusiastic and caring volunteers who provide the residents with a fun programme of activities.

On top of this he has built up a core group of talented volunteer Trustees who have helped him to run Garrad House Rick has been a dedicated and kind volunteer, the residents love chatting to him and he enjoys their company.

Geoff Ascott said ‘ I have an incredibly high opinion of Rick, I think he has done marvellously, I even like his jokes’. Not everyone does but they always bring a smile, or is it a moan?

A goodbye party was organised for Rick by all the friends he has made at Garrad House. They

Rick Hogger with Sheila Brown and Sharon Goodman presenting part of his leaving gift - note the birthday hat ... it was his birthday too joined together and have commissioned a painting of his beloved boat by the artist Anne Rea, as a token of their appreciation for all that he has achieved at Garrad House. Rick will be missed but he hopes to continue for a while as our volunteer

handyman.

Garrad House are keen to work with volunteers in all types of roles, to find out more why not attend our volunteer recruitment evening on June 2nd.

Ring for more details 01923 270791

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THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 5

Kings Langley Fire Station Open Day Wednesday 28 May, 2pm to 5pm

W

atch Commander Matt Day and his crew would like to invite you all to an open day at Kings Langley Fire Station during half term week, where there will be the opportunity to demonstrate your skills with a fire hose and enter a competition or two (help choose a name for the fire

engine, guess its weight and a smoke alarm hunt in the High Street). Light refreshments will be available and you will also have the chance to check out the fire engine and fire station.

Keep your eyes open for the posters in the village for more details.

Are You Free on Sunday 1st June?

Runners and Marshals Required for Kings Langley Puffaten

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y the time you read this, the Puffaten will be only a couple of weeks away.

The Puffaten is back this year on Sunday 1st June after a break of many years to raise funds for after school activities at Kings Langley Primary School. The event is being generously supported by award winning restaurant the Cinnamon Lounge, the Parish Council and County Councillor Richard Roberts, who is also taking part in the event.

There will be three races, a 10K, 3K and 1.5K. The closing date for entrants is 22nd May, (please note that the school will be closed for half term) but entries are able to turn up on the day at a premium.

All entry fees will be donated to the primary school and other local good causes.

Alan Johnson, organiser of

the event said “We want as many local people and their families to take part, but desperately need marshals along the route or volunteers on the school site. The Rotary and Lions Clubs, together with the 1st Kings Langley Scout Group, have offered some support, but we will need the help of as many people as possible to make it a memorable day for the village.”

The application form is downloadable from the primary school website www. kingslangley-pri.herts.sch. uk (click Parent Pages) or available from the school office. For those wanting to help, Alan Johnson can be contacted by email at a.johnson@kingslangley-pri. herts.sch.uk or through the school office on 01923 263321.

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Email: express-taxis@live.co.uk www.express-taxis.co.uk PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

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Old Palace Pals Saddle Up for Hospice F

our drinking pals will be swapping their bar stools for their bicycle saddles after signing up for a 100-mile cycle challenge to raise funds for the hospice that cared for a good friend.

The chums, regulars at The Old Palace Pub in Kings Langley, will be retracing the route of the London Olympic road race when they take to the streets for the RideLondon-Surrey100 challenge in August.

Calling themselves The Old Palace Crew, the foursome will be saddling up to raise funds for The Hospice of St Francis, where their friend, nurse and mum-of-three Geraldine Flowerdew spent her final weeks before losing her battle with cancer in July 2012.

Team member Gill Garratt, from Hemel, explains, “My boyfriend Ian and I did the ride last year and it was just incredible. I can still picture the surreal scene at first light of hundreds of bikes all moving in the same direction towards the start line.”

The pair raised £1,350 for The Hospice in last year’s event but mum-of-three Gill, 50, admits, “When Ian first suggested we do it, I said: “You what? Sit on a razor blade saddle for 100 miles?

You must be joking! But I went out and bought a road bike just so we could go out and do something together at weekends and now we’re fanatical.

“Cycling is such a healthy and interesting hobby and having a goal really makes you train. We can’t wait to do it again to raise funds for an amazing Hospice, which was like a home from home for Geraldine. If ever you’re in that position, that’s where you would want to be.”

This year, also for the second year running, pal John Ozwell, 54, from Kings Langley, will be joining them.

John raised £1,200 for the Hospice in last years’ event.

But, this year, the trio have persuaded BBC location technician Steve Jackson, 53, from Bennetts End to get on his bike too.

Says Steve: “I was too busy to join them training last year but this year, I can’t wait. I’ve been training on my treadmill since January but I really need to put some miles in on the road and hopefully, with the longer days and better weather, we’ll be able to go out training as a group in the evenings.

“My father died two years ago in a hospice, which not only gave him proper

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Old Palace Pals ready for 100 mile cycle ride caring but also supported me, my mum and my sister afterwards. The whole thing was brilliant so anything I can do to support my local hospice, I will.”

The Hospice, which cares for people living with life-shortening illnesses in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, is keen to hear from anyone interested in signing up for a cycling challenge to help raise the

£4.6m it needs annually to fund its free care.

It has 7 places left up for grabs in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey100 challenge as well and a few for this year’s London-Paris Bike Ride (2nd-6th July).

To sign up or find out more, call 01442 869555, email fundraising@stfrancis.org. uk or visit www.stfrancis.org. uk/i-want-to-help .‎ Deadline for entry is early May.

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THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 7

From PCSO 6012 Ian Martin Good news 6 men arrested for ‘phone scams

S

ix men who were arrested on Wednesday, April 2 have been charged and remanded in custody.

The men were arrested following a number of warrants being carried out across North London by the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit, These warrants were designed to target those suspected of being involved in phone scams in Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Surrey.

A large number of

officers from Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk took part in the warrants at seven addresses.

They were supported by the Metropolitan Police Service.

The following men have been charged with conspiracy to commit fraud: • Ibrahem Charary, aged 18, from Stanhope Street in North London • Gael Masidi, aged 19, from Royal College Street in North London • Marlon Thompson, aged 18, from Margery Street, Islington • Abdullah Hajji, aged 19, from Flaxmen Terrace, Camden • Langangi Amani, aged 19,

from Lloyd Baker Street in North London • Rakeem Worthingon, aged 18, from Islington All men appeared at Cambridge’s Remand Court on Friday, April 25 and were remanded in custody.

They are due to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on Friday May 2.

If you are suspicious about a telephone conversation you should end the call and contact police via the nonemergency number, 101.

Remember to use a mobile phone or a friend’s phone or wait at least five minutes before calling to ensure you aren’t reconnected to the offender.

Contact Ian on: 01442 271012 or via 01707 354192.

(You may have to leave a message for him to call back) Police Non-Emergency No:

101

Kings Langley Church Lane School Reunion Country Market Friday 20th June, 12 noon

T

he annual Church Lane School Reunion will take place on Friday 20th June from 12 noon at the

Kings Langley Services Club.

Anyone who attended the Church Lane School in Kings Langley is welcome to attend.

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PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

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Billy’s Wish Receives Support from Police and Crime Commissioner

I

t was a great week for Billy’s Wish at the end of March! Following the presentation of the High Sheriff Award, we are delighted to announce that we have also been awarded a grant of £8,000 from the Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner, David Lloyd.

Due to the excellent feedback when the Billy’s Wish Anti Knife Crime Education Programme was launched last year, Chief Inspector Mike Pryce from Hertfordshire’s Community Safety and Crime Reduction Department urged Billy’s Wish to roll out the programme across Hertfordshire as soon as possible. This presented a challenge - it would mean working with 500 schools rather than the 70 in Dacorum, and so would require an employee to take on the huge task of speaking to Head Teachers and Governors, preparing

and updating the programme for schools and liaising with local police officers, and also a requirement for an increased supply of tokens that carry vital information for young people; these are handed out at the workshops.

CI Pryce is fully supporting the scheme and is urging Head Teachers to take the Education programme into schools across the county, and David Lloyd has been following the work of the charity since its conception; their support has been invaluable.

As a result of the awards and grants received, Jan Maddern will be standing down as a Trustee and taking on the role of Charity Director, in order to drive the programme forward.

Billy’s Wish is also in contact with senior politicians and organisations with a view to widening the audience further for the Education Programme.

Jan said “We are extremely grateful to the Police and

overner Mark Award

ir of d to Kings rning rded is a k of e first re to h is a p and ndous within I am rning ement oving

ook a which n and was was orous ssors great ment’ essed ement iews, ation , and enge, ny of ough and

orth e date n was ches ngley d be n our the s the h the es for tead

Crime Commissioner for the grant we have received.

We are fully committed to introducing our Education Programme right across the county and beyond. If our workshops save one young person’s life we will have succeeded in our aim.

Hertfordshire Police officers have been outstanding in their support and believe that the Billy’s Wish message is really important to the safety of the community”.

of Alochol and Tobacco

Recent Incidents

Police Helicopter Aids Arrest

You may recollect on Good Friday (2nd April), late at night, around 11.25pm, a police helicopter and lots of sirens in the village.

Hertfordshire Police received a call at around 11.15pm regarding a Road Traffic collision between a purple Ford Focus, a silver Honda Civic and a Mazda Xedos on Station Road where one of the drivers left his vehicle and made off from the scene. He was located at Railway Terrace by the police helicopter who directed officers on the ground. He was detained and taken to hospital. The 36

Kings Langley Neighbourhood Watch web site:

www.klnhw.co.uk

P

olice are appealing for witnesses to a robbery in Spar in Kings Langley year old manduring was arrested for High Street the early driving unfit hours ofwhilst Friday 2nd(drugs) May. and street the hospital Thebailed frontatdoor of the while he continued to receive medical shop was forced open at treatment. approximately 2.30am and a number of items stolen including cigarettes and alcohol.

The shop was closed for a couple 9pm of hours during 16th Between on Tuesday the morning while March and 4am on forensic Wednesday examinations took place.

17th March, offenders gained If you have anyparked information, entry to vehicles on the or witnessed anything slip road to the canal in Link Road suspicious contact to release theplease handbrake and allow Herts the to nonthe carsPolice to rollon down the canal emergency 101a white bank.

Two ofnumber the vehicles, quotingHiace reference Toyota and aD1/14/2597. blue Skoda Felicia were set alight whilst a Black Nissan Micra, a Beige Ford Granada and a silver Honda Civic were damaged.

Arson to Parked Cars

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visits to school. They also praised the excellent work of their clerk Tracey Middleton who had produced much of the documentation required.

Well done to all.

ral Election Hustings at ings Langley School

otice have ll be litical e that

Spar Robbed

constituency.

The Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrat candidates swiftly accepted the invitation to take part in a hustings at Kings Langley School on April 27th.

The school’s Headteacher, Mr Gary Lewis, met all the criteria for chairing such an event- impartiality and substantial experience in handling situations which might become rather lively. He readily accepted the task of conducting an “Any Questions?” style of forum and made sure that a brisk pace was maintained.

An encouraging number of local people attended and put their questions to Ayfer Orhan, Richard Grayson and Mike Penning.

By general consent, it was a useful and civilised event which covered a wide range of issues. It would have been encouraging to have seen some young people present even though only a few would have been eligible to vote.

Churches Together hopes to organise the occasional open meeting when issues of general public interest can be aired..

Large enough to cope small to care Brand new, fully equipped pilates studioenough conveniently located close to Bovingdon, Chipperfield Village and Kings Langley. This Providing quality home studio care to the both community since studio 1994 welcoming and spacious offers 1:1 sessions, sessions (3:1) and mat work classes to people of all ages and abilities.

Homecare enables people to have a choice to remain at home with practical support.

Our trained care workerssoft-tissue can help release you withwork the Yoga classes and fascial stretch/integrative tasks that you are struggling with or unable to do. also availablee We will visit you in your own home so that we can assess your needs and together we can create a bespoke service especially For more information and booking please contact for on you01442 834 672 The Pilates Team We can provide you with a private care package or you can use The Studio, Greinan Farm, Tower Hill, Chipperfield, Kings to Langley, 9LU your direct payments or individual budgets fundHerts yourWD4 care.

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THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 9

Kings Langley Community Choir

K

ings Langley Community Choir is deep into rehearsals with a new repertoire for what promises to be its most varied series yet of summer performances. On Sunday, 18th May the season will get under way when the choir appears on the main stage at the Rickmansworth Festival.

Then, on Monday 2nd June, the choir will perform one half of an evening concert at St John’s, Boxmoor in support of the 20th anniversary of local charity Hope for Children.

Thanks to an invitation by the Rt.Hon. Mike Penning MP, the choir will travel to Westminster on 18th June and perform to Members of Parliament. With the agreement of Mr Speaker, this event will be held in the atrium of Portcullis House.

Three days later, on 21st June, the choir is back in the local community to appear at Kings Langley Carnival.

The summer will conclude in a reflective mode when the choir will lead the communal

singing that will form part of the Back To The Front, Great War commemoration to be held in Kings Langley Village Garden on the evening of 4th August. Songs synonymous of that time – Pack up Your Troubles, It’s A Long Way To Tipperary - and many more which have remained familiar over the succeeding century, will be sung by all.

All this follows on another successful venture into the Watford Festival in March, where the choir was awarded second place. Required to perform two contrasting numbers, the choir first sang the Judy Garland classic Somewhere Over The Rainbow, from the Wizard of Oz. This was followed by the up tempo ELO pop standard Mr Blue Sky which, judging by the audience reaction, seemed to qualify as the favourite of the competition.

For more information about the choir and its summer programme, visit www. kingslangleychoir.co.uk or www.twitter.com/KLChoir.

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

Bard's Birthday Celebrations T

he 450th anniversary of the Bard’s birthday on the 24th April saw an explosion of tributes and performances all around the world. Not to be left behind, staff and students at Kings Langley School celebrated the birthday of the world’s greatest writer with style.

The events started with especially tailored writing workshops led by guest author Robin Price. He is probably best known for the 'Spartapuss' series, which is set in an ancient Rome ruled by cats. He started writing late in 2004 - having previously written songs and then co-wrote a musical version of The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson, which was a massive hit. It toured the UK and ended up on Broadway opposite The Lion King!

Students used Shakespeare’s tales as inspiration and created their own fantasy tales- not only enjoying the Bard’s world of monsters, wizards and witches but also enhancing their skills of creative writing.

Staff and KS3 students got involved by dressing up

in Shakespeare themed costume. This was led by Mr McGuigan who chose to dress up as the Roman emperor Julius Caesar. KS3 students were treated to Shakespeare linked lessons in all their lessons from not only English and Drama but also, History, RE and Music. These activities were thoroughly enjoyed by all and students gained a new appreciation and respect for the Birthday

boy!

The day ended with a celebration in the Hall which included a staff vs. students Shakespeare quiz, a comedy double act performed by Luke Sills and George Calcutt and of course cake baked especially by Miss Scanlan!

A huge thank you goes to all the staff and students who got involved- here’s to the next 450 years!

B

ALFA

etween Sunday 8th June and Sunday 13th July, the twelfth Abbots Langley Festival of the Arts (ALFA) is featuring all manner of performances.

Over two dozen different events featuring all types of entertainment are taking place. There will be music in abundance – a jazz quintet and a chance to join in a session of traditional music; their own local orchestra and students from the local school of music; singing (performed by both children and adults). Flowers are featured - in the garden, in a vase, and as the centre of a large display. Poetry read, and plays performed for your enjoyment. There is also the opportunity to see how clever some people are with display of art and crafts, and even an opportunity to try your hand at making cane weaving!

Historians are also catered for with a rare chance to see old maps books and photographs.

So - there can be no excuse for your not coming to the festival – there are many, many varied and interesting events to see.

All information is available in the Abbots Langley Villager and brochures which can be found in Abbots Langley.

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 11

Transition In Kings Kings Langley WI News O

W

e have had a very busy month this April, as well as being busy organising the Local Food Market for the Carnival, planning a Food Forum later in the year with the brilliant Pam Warhurst from Todmorden's Incredible Edible, Pam Warhurst: How we can eat our landscapes | Talk Video ...

Pam Warhurst cofounded Incredible Edible, an initiative in Todmorden, England dedicated to growing food locally by planting on unused land throughout the community. http://www.ted.com/talks/ pam_warhurst_how_we_can_ eat_our_landscapes and www.incredible-edibletodmorden.co.uk/ We are working towards a permanent monthly Farmers Food Market, tending and planting our secret Community Allotment, and we have also been given the opportunity to grow on a much larger scale! We have been given permission to cultivate some acres close to the village, so we started our dream of creating Short Food Miles for the Village. After

the huge disappointment of Balls Pond Farm, our drive and energy can now be put towards this new venture..and we can start right away!

Thursday morning at 10am is our Community Dig Day, we usually 'dig' for 1-1/2 hours, then go for coffee to one or other of our brilliant Village Coffee shops, to chat about plans for the next week/ seeds etc. If you would like to join in email transitioninkings@gmail. com .

Green Tips.... www.green-england.co.uk/site/ tips What do you think we should do about Climate change?

ur President was very pleased to welcome 6 visitors to our meeting this month.

As usual we will be having a stall at Kings Langley Carnival on the 21st June where we will be selling cakes etc.

There is a Group Meeting and Spring Council meeting this month, several of our members will be attending these events.

Our President will be holding a Light Lunch on the 25th April.

There is also the Mayors Coffee morning at the Civic Centre on the 25th April which we have also been invited too, but will be unable to attend because of our Lunch.

All our various clubs are going well, film club will recommence in September when the nights are darker again, but the rambling club will be starting very soon.

The Competition last month was to make as many words from “Bletchley Park” very successful, lots of entries and

the winner Mrs Moyna Taylor managed 364 words, This was because our speaker for the evening was John Wilson, with a talk on Bletchley Park, giving an outline of the History of the Park and its use during the war, there where also photo’s shown of the Park and the Enigma machines used in their code breaking.

For this talk we were pleased to welcome a few of the member’s husbands.

Our meetings are held at 7.30 in the Community Centre, the 2nd Tuesday in the month The next meeting will be on Tuesday the 13th May. All ladies welcome enquiries to: - Mrs Linda Brady 01442 831763 or Mrs Diana Addy on 01923 264171.

The cut off date for the next issue is Friday 23rd May

Let TiK know your answers by email, to: transitioninkings@gmail.com

The Royal British Legion Abbots Langley Branch We welcome all those interested to join us. Monthly meetings are held at the Abbots Langley Men's Club in Trowley Rise on the 1st Monday of the month (except on Bank Holiday when we assemble on the 2nd Monday) at 8pm.

Everyone welcome.

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St Paul's Church, Langleyury

I

n November 2014 St Paul’s Church Langleybury (WD4 8QQ) celebrates the 150th anniversary of the consecration of the Church Building.

The present community of St Paul’s Langleybury is marking this special year with a series of services, talks, exhibitions, concerts and other events.

One of the highlights of the year is an anniversary Flower Festival which will run throughout the weekend of 20th – 22nd June.

The theme of the Flower Festival is “1864” which aims to bring to life the year the church was built in flowers! Contributors from the local community, Churches in Abbots Langley and across Watford, St Albans Abbey, and St Paul’s Church and School will create floral tributes to the events, politics, art, music, literature and notable names from the year 1864.

As you explore the displays you will be given a shapshot of the births, deaths, publications, scientific discoveries, business, sport and industry of the year.

Refreshments will be served each day and there will be music, stalls to browse (including home produce and home grown plants), plenty of activity and areas for quiet reflection

including a memorial tree for visitors to remember loved ones, and all those who over the years have contributed to this local community.

Opening Times and special events each day:

Friday 20th June: 11am – 3pm 8pm, Organ Recital given by Fr Neil Kelley, Rector of Bushey Saturday 21st June: 10am – 4pm 2pm, recital given by the choir of St Paul’s VA Primary School Sunday 22nd June: 12noon – 4pm

In the 1950’s a Green Line bus conductor described St Paul’s Church and Church Yard as ‘Paradise Corner.’ Come and enjoy a little bit of ‘paradise.’

For more information about St Paul’s Church and anniversary events please see the Church’s website www. stpaulslangleybury.org or Facebook page.

Jenny

07716 118614

to arrange an appointment

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The cut off date for the next issue is

Friday 23rd May

Advice Column From Your Local CAB I have heard in the news about going through assessments to obtain my ESA benefit. What are these and what should I expect?

No one knows when an accident or ill-health could have a dramatic impact on their life. Last year the Government added an extra step to the process for applying for sickness and disability support.

The Work Capability Assessment (WCA) process, which has come under fire for lengthy and unfair decisions since it was introduced in 2008, will now include an extra step before sick and disabled people can access financial support through Employment Support Allowance (ESA).

If your sickness or disability prevents you from working, then you could be entitled to ESA to help you manage

your day to day living costs.

Since October last year, the Government introduced a new 'mandatory reconsideration' phase to ESA. This extra step in the process takes place after you receive a decision on your initial application for support and you can't lodge an appeal until it is completed.

It is supposed to take about two weeks to go through the reconsideration period but unfortunately some of our clients have said it can take much longer than this.

You won’t be able to claim ESA during the reconsideration phase but you can apply for Jobseekers Allowance. We're concerned that some people will find this difficult and be left with no financial support – leading to people in already trying circumstances being subjected to even more anxiety.

If you're in this situation then you should go to your local Citizens Advice Bureau for help on how to manage your finances and make sure your application is dealt with fairly and promptly. Once the reconsideration process has taken place, you may well get a positive decision about your application. If you are unhappy with the decision, you can appeal.

Appealing against a decision can seem like a daunting prospect but advisers in your local Citizens Advice Bureau can help you to deal with this.

Abbots Langley CAB The Old Stables St Lawrence's Vicarage High Street Abbots Langley Three Rivers Residents:

0844 245 1296

Opening Times: Mon 10am-4pm Tue and Thu 10am-3pm Wed and Fri 10am-1pm WE OFFER AN EMAIL ADVICE SERVICE PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.threeriverscab.org.uk Dacorum CAB Dacre House 19 Hillfield Road Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP2 4AA Phone(s):

08444 111 444 From Mobile:

0300 3300 650 Web pages: www.adviceguide.org.uk , www.dacorumcab.org.uk/

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 13

French Leave by Voyager Comparisons with life in France from a former resident

You kip, they'll vote . . .

J

ean-François is a baker in a seaside town on the northern shore of the bay of Biscay. I sometimes wonder why anyone chooses this as a career. It’s more a way of life than a job, with crippling hours, most of which are spent standing up. His is the largest bakery of three in a town with a popluation of about 1,400 in winter, rocketing to 20,000+ during the summer season.

This is typical of Breton coastal towns and is a real headache for the local authority, because it has to provide services for all the visitors, even if the busy season only lasts about eight weeks. (If you visit France regularly and have wondered what the “taxe de séjour” on your hotel or camping bill is, it funds those services.)

A bruising job, indeed. J-F starts just after midnight six days a week, for eight months of the year, closing during the winter months. He has a greyish pallour, almost that

of the prison house, from long hours under artificial light aided and abetted by constant exposure to flour. He is coming up for sixty and the lined face shows that time and the furnace have taken their toll.

I have only recently got to know him and while he’s a nice enough chap, he is, in the words of the song, a man of constant sorrow, notwithstanding a charming and seemingly more optimistic younger wife, and a couple of very agreable kids.

He wasn’t always a baker, he is at pains to tell me, but a cheating business partner in an earlier life left him no choice but to retrain. Being from a generation not used to resting on its laurels (pronounced bottom) he chose baking because it seemed like a good bet for the 15 years up to retirement, for the love affair of the French with their baguette continues undiminished.

Now he regrets it. Why? Well, it’s the economy stupid. In the

PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

years since our bonus-loving bankers screwed the world economy and most of us with it, he has seen his profitability drop dramatically. In the first five weeks of his current baking season, turnover fell by about 20,000€, which follows on a similar drop in 2013.

He blames the government, though I’m not sure how much better it really was under Mr. Sarkozy. However, with official figures showing unemployment nudging 3.5 million, coupled with consistently poor economic results and steadily rising prices (which toxic cocktail is dutifully drip fed by the telly) fewer people are going on holiday.

As our doomladen relationship has evolved another looming catastrophe has descended upon his already bowed shoulders: the possible success of Marine Le Pen’s reformed and reforming Front National. His concern is less about their policies, which I have the impression don’t bother him too much, rather the social catastrophe that he believes will engulf la belle F if they sweep the board.

There is, of course, a parallel with the rise of UKIP in the UK, with whom Ms. Le Pen recently proposed an alliance.

There are clearly many people who are disenchanted by the EU and, in particular, overregulation, the free movement of labour and immigration. And they are equally disenchanted with a political class that chooses to ignore their point of view. 10 years ago, the French voted against the new EU constitution in the referendum that cost the then PM, JeanPierre Raffarin, his job. (As soon as he was entrusted by Chirac with delivering a “yes” vote, he was a condemned man, much as M. Ayrault has been sacrificed at least in part to the fantasies of his boss M. Hollande.) What happened ? The political class forged on, found a way round it and ignored the people.

I was struck this month during a visit to the UK how the UKIP band wagon has rolled on since my last visit in November. It is always difficult to discern the extent to which media hype is inflating its importance, but it is very clear that Mr. Farage, like Ms. Le Pen, is touching a chord with a lot of people. As I write this, Mr. Farage is under further

attack about racist remarks by some of his candidates— reading these, one is forced to wonder which planet these people were born on—and bizarrely in a spat with Ms. Le Pen about anti-semitism in her Front National.

But the Front National did well in the recent local elections and they look set to do well in the European elections too.

Though Ms. Le Pen is avowedly anti-immigration and anti the Schengen accords, which permit the free movement of labour, she has, at least on paper, moved her party away from the overtly fascist and anti-semitic views of the old Front National of her father.

Now, regardless of whether you believe in the leopard’s ability to change its spots, it’s clear that at least some of the messages resonate with a lot of ordinary people, who are not necessarily either racist or antisemitic (though the swelling numbers will undoubtedly include some who are). The response of the political class here is the standard reflex of unreasoning revulsion at the NF and all it stands for, apparently having failed to recognise that it and the world have moved on a bit. No one has responded to the detailed policies on its website, which is the only way to counter her arguments and those of Mr. Farage (more effectively than Nick Clegg did). So a significant proportion of the population feels sufficiently abandoned by mainstream politicians, who are sleeping at the wheel. It is likely that unless they wake up and demolish the Front’s arguments one by one, it will make significant gains in the Europeans. You kip, they’ll vote.

So to return to Jean-François, his concern is not so much the policies, rather that the left will take to the streets and cause social chaos, with all the social disruption that implies, which he fears is likely to reduce the number of tourists still further and thus his turnover and profitability. As I predicted in March, France has a new government, led by the former interior minister, Manuel Valls.

Mr. Valls is very able, but will he effectively counter the FN’s arguments and bring back voters to the mainstream? Like most of the issues on his desk, it will not be easy.

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 15

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THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 17

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THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 19

All Ready for Glorious Hospice Garden Party P

imms, cream teas, stalls-a-plenty, live music and children’s entertainment will be on offer at the annual Hospice of St Francis Garden Party, taking place in the beautiful grounds of Ashridge House on Sunday 1 June, 1-5pm.

The Garden Party, sponsored by international law firm D A C Beachcroft and last year attended by more than 3,000 people, is a chance to show support for your local Hospice and help it to raise much needed funds.

The Berkhamsted based charity needs to raise £4.7 million annually to help fund the care it provides for people living with life-shortening illnesses in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

At this year’s Garden Party there will be live music in the garden from popular jazz quartet, the Jolly Jazzers with the choice of lunch from the BBQ on the terrace or afternoon teas in the historic Dining Room. The popular Pimms stall will be well stocked out on the lawns whilst the bar will offer locally brewed beers inside the beautiful Wyatt Room.

There will be a wide variety of quality stalls with many local suppliers and businesses offering a tempting array of speciality food & drink, gifts and handmade craft items, jewellery, fashion and home accessories, summer bedding and herbaceous plants. There’s also plenty to entertain small people including the delights of a traditional flea circus, Punch and Judy, Face Painting from Tiny Acorns, ice cream and a circus skills workshop.

Sarah Adjer, Community Fundraiser, at The Hospice of St Francis, comments, “The Hospice Garden Party is a fantastic afternoon out for all the family and is our biggest community event of the year that raises important funds as well as awareness of our vital work.

“It offers the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon wandering around the stalls and exploring the beautiful gardens of Ashridge House before enjoying afternoon tea or a glass of Pimms and soaking up the atmosphere.”

Dolores Kelly, Marketing

Manager of Ashridge House adds, “We are delighted to welcome back The Hospice of St Francis for its annual Garden Party and look forward to welcoming local people to enjoy the beautiful gardens and parkland of Ashridge. This year we’ve increased the number of parking spaces available to help keep traffic moving through the Estate and are ready to welcome the crowds.”

Laurence Markham of DAC Beachcroft, sponsors of the event, added, “A family member of one of our staff recently experienced the care the Hospice provides. The Firm wanted to show our appreciation by contributing towards this fantastic day out. We wish the event every success and hope it raises a significant sum to fund the work of this wonderful organisation.”

Tickets to the Garden Party are available to buy in advance from Hospice Love to Give shops and Returned To Glory priced at £5 each for adults or on the day at £6.

Children under 16 are free.

For further information visit www.stfrancis.org.uk/ gardenparty or call 01442 869555.

PAGE 20 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

Crowds at Ashridge in 2013

OBITUARY

Lesley Evans L

esley Evans, 70, of Langley Hill, very sadly died on 9th April. Lesley and her husband Brian have lived in Kings Langley for 46 years and are known by many in the Village.

Lesley grew up in Northwood Hills and attended the local primary school, subsequently moving onto the Harrow College for Girls in 1952, where she took her O-levels. Between 1959 and 1961, she undertook secretarial studies at the Harrow Technical College, learning shorthand, typing and book-keeping.

Her career followed several paths and started out in 1962 with Moss Bros in Covent Garden, where she was secretary to the Personnel Manager. In 1965 she moved to Cresta Press in Watford but left in 1969 when she had her first child, Diane. Lesley and Brian went on to have three more children, Paul, Christine and Robin. Looking after four children became her priority

but she continued to work part-time in various sectors including Welfare Assistant at both Chipperfield and Kings Langley schools, School Secretary at Potten End School and Secretary at the Physiotherapy Department at Watford General Hospital.

In parallel with her professional career, Lesley developed her interests in helping others with their fitness. During the 1980’s Lesley became an Aerobic Instructor, taking up to six classes per week. Later in the 1990’s, up to 2008 she led the thriving fitness class with Sportspace, at the Kings Langley Senior School.

During that period in 2004, she qualified as a Community Sports Leader. Lesley continued with these classes while she was physically able, but had to stop when the progression of Parkinson’s Disease made it too difficult for her.

Lesley and Brian met 53 years ago, when she was

just 17 and he was 22. They married in 1966 and had their four children, Diane, Paul, Christine and Robin and they have 7 grandchildren. Lesley was a devoted mother and grandmother.

One of Lesley and Brian’s Australian friends, June MacDonald, recently aptly characterized her as: “Lesley had a smile and a twinkle in her eye that could light up a room. She was a warm and emotionally generous person.

She made my time in England so much easier and I would have been lost without her friendship. We had such fun together. Squash, badminton, trampolining, swimming, taking the kids to different places, Bekonscot, the Zoo. We went to movies, cooked biscuits and just hung out like two mums do when you have young kids that need attention. In those days, she took everything in her stride, full of laughter, energy and fun. Not too much got her down. She didn't gossip, she

wasn't high maintenance and her kids meant the world to her. She gave of herself generously.”

Lesley’s funeral took place on 24 April at the Garston Crematorium, attended by family, relatives and her many friends – she will of course be sadly missed, by the many who knew her.

Andrew Selby

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 21

P

Royal Visit

rincess Anne arrived at South West Herts Narrowboat Project in Hunton Bridge on 2nd April to visit the new narrowboat Pickle’s Folly. The Princess Royal was due to visit the site last October but a very wet day cancelled her arrival.

Princess Anne was greeted by trustees of the local charity spending time with each member to discuss their part in Pickles Folly. Peter Lincoln, Chairman of the Trustees for SWHNP, guided HRH round the site and onto the recently built Pickles Folly to view the internal facilities.

She spent some time talking to volunteers and pupils from Bushey Meads School who have used Pickles

Folly for a trip asking them various questions. A posy of flowers was presented by Lee Keogh to HRH, Lee being the first wheelchair user of Pickles Folly.

Overall, the visit was a success with Princess Anne taking great interest in the charity and made an effort to talk to almost everyone on site.

Dicks Folly and Pickles Folly is available to youth and community groups for day or weekend trips along the Grand Union Canal.

For more details, please visit the website www. swhertsnarrowboat.org.uk Photo shows HRH Princess Anne with pupils from Bushey Meads School

Christian Aid ‘Intern’ Speaks Of Her Visit To Colombia

C

hristian Aid were delighted to host a visit from this year’s ‘Intern’ Hannah Thompson on 6th April at Christ Church Baptist.

Hannah spoke of her visit to Colombia where she saw the excellent work that Christian Aid’s partner, ‘The Inter Church Commission for Justice and Peace’ is doing there.

Since the civil war many millions of the poorest people have been forced to leave their homes. The Inter Church Commission risks their lives as they stand and speak out for these communities. They give legal advice and also work with the ‘Peace Brigade International’ who accompany the Commission when they visit displaced people in the

‘humanitarian zones’ where they go for safety. One of the leaders, Fr. Alberto, said: ‘to stand by and do nothing that would be treason to my Christian faith’.

Hannah spoke powerfully of the affect the visit had on here and then shared with the young people some more information about the visit, why Christian Aid is involved in this work and what they could do to support it.

Coffee Morning: 17th May 10.00 to 12.00, Christ Church Baptist, The Nap.

Hannah Thomson in Colombia

PAGE 22 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

Paul Tucker

A Most Unusual Primate I

doubt whether The Most Reverend Justin Welby, Primate of All England and Archbishop of Canterbury, is a household name up and down the country; neither is it likely that he will be much talked about in your average pub or club. Yet the story of his life so far is remarkable.

He came into public prominence when he was chosen, after only nine months in post as bishop of Durham, to lead the Church of England at one of the most troubled points in its history. He had enjoyed a successful career as a business executive on a very large salary. In Durham he had made a deep impression for his business acumen and, more importantly, his concern for the underprivileged.

Few could have predicted how his career has developed since his housemaster at Eton described him as “a model pupil but quite undistinguished. (If I were Welby, I would frame that assessment and hang it over my desk.) At that stage in his development he was apparently an aggressive atheist.

Although Welby junior did not become aware of it until much later in life, his father was a Jew who concealed his ethnicity and made a large fortune, quickly lost, from bootlegging liquor during the prohibitionist era in America.

He died from alcoholic poisoning and as a bankrupt.

Consequently, the fees for young Welby's final two years at Eton were unpaid.

While he was an undergraduate at Cambridge University, Welby was converted to Christian faith

by an evangelical charismatic group there, some of whose members went on to launch the Alpha Project from Holy Trinity, Brompton.

After several years of indecision, Welby went on to develop a promising career as an oil executive. During that time, he married Caroline Eaton. Their first of six children was tragically killed in a car accident. Welby's business background equipped him to castigate greedy bankers in their own language.

There was a memorable exchange when George Osborne asked rhetorically, “Can I congratulate you on your appointment as archbishop”? With a wry smile, Welby replied, “I'm not sure that you can”. He knew what awaited him.

He quit his lucrative business career to train for the priesthood. His first experience of parochial life took him to a run-down neighbourhood in Coventry.

From there he was profoundly influenced by the cathedral's work centred upon peace and reconciliation.

Some aspects of his life as a businessman and priest read like an adventure story for boys. He and his wife went Bible-smuggling behind the then Iron Curtain. They risked their lives in harrowing journeys through the dangerous war zones of South Sudan and The Democratic Republic of the Congo. The bodies of 22 members of the cathedral staff in The Sudan were lined up waiting for Welby to bury them in a mass grave. Whilst working in Coventry, he travelled almost everywhere where Christians

were killing or being killed.

He made more than 70 visits to dangerous regions in Nigeria.

Several times he texted his wife because he thought he might be imminently killed.

Now, I think it will be agreed that this is not the sort of life which we usually associate with archbishops.

It is against this background that some of his public utterances must be set. “Grace is at the heart of the Christian faith, not law. The Church isn't principally about rules.

It’s about a relationship with Jesus Christ and he shapes people's behaviour.... The Church is not a place where good people go. It's a place where bad people go to meet God. It's a refuge for sinners.”

Another great archbishop of Canterbury, William Temple, said much the same thing when he remarked that “the Church is the only body known to me which exists primarily for the benefit of nonmembers”.

So what has he achieved during his tenure of the throne of St Augustine? His most solid and irrevocable success has been to lead the Church of England past the General Synod's calamitous failure to approve the appointment of women bishops. The first of these will probably be consecrated next year.

Then in the summer of 2012 he started a national conversation about loan sharks and got people thinking of the Church of England as an organisation more concerned about the evils of payday lending than of sex. What endeared him most to many people in his Durham diocese was his

evidently genuine concern for the underprivileged. This concern was again reflected in his Easter message from Canterbury.

This represents considerable progress- but he has spoken recently about his anguish caused by the murderous homophobia in such provinces of the Anglican communion as Nigeria and Uganda. If he is too outspoken in his criticism of the hatred engendered by bigoted opponents of homosexual relationships, he risks shattering the already fragile unity of the worldwide Anglican Church.

Both in his business career and in his ministry, he has gained a reputation as a reconciler of opposing factions.

It is reported that when he and Pope Francis first met, the opening part of their meeting was marked by laughter and joke telling. The two men seem to be kindred spirits.

One of Francis's close friends is a rabbi while Welby has invited a group of Roman Catholic nuns to take up residence in Lambeth Palace as a praying community.

With these two tough, determined and pragmatic men at the helms of their respective churches, future developments look deeply interesting- interesting enough for The Guardian newspaper, not known for its Christian sympathies, to devote a full three-page spread to charting the progress of this refreshingly unstuffy archbishop. I have drawn heavily upon those pages.

“Cometh the hour, cometh the man”?

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T

Arriva Honours Local Legends

he family, friends and colleagues of murdered teenager Billy Dove and policeman Frank Mason were amongst the very special guests as Arriva unveiled its new fleet of buses named after local heroes from across the Hemel Hempstead area.

The new fleet of single deck vehicles were finally launched at a moving event this weekend after a hugely successful appeal revealed the titles that the local community most wanted immortalised on the new vehicles that are currently in operation on the number 2 route.

The voting reflected the continuing wealth of public feeling towards both Billy and Frank’s tragic deaths, whilst also paying respects to many of the area’s current personalities, including Simon ‘Arky’ Fancourt, Group Scout Leader for the 1st Apsley Scout Group, and Jack Gatehouse, who was one of the chosen torch bearers in the run up to the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Arriva’s Regional Marketing and Communications Manager, Linsey Frostick said: “The response to our appeal was truly amazing and we received some incredible feedback from a number of people who have campaigned tirelessly in hope of seeing their friend, family member or local hero immortalised on one of our buses.

“We have been very touched by the support we have received and are honoured to have been able to give something back to the residents of Hemel Hempstead.”

The final seven chosen names are: • John: Honouring John Dickinson, who founded leading

stationery company John Dickinson Stationery Limited in the 19th Century.

• Frank: In memory of offduty policeman, Frank Mason, who was killed during a bank raid in 1988.

• Billy: In memory of 21-year-old Billy Dove who died protecting a friend from a knife attack during a night out in Hemel Hempstead in 2011.

• Arky: Marking the contribution of Simon ‘Arky’ Fancourt, a group scout leader known to hundreds of young people throughout Hemel Hempstead.

• Tom: In memory of Tom Price, former editor of The Hemel Hempstead Gazette, who sadly passed away following a long illness.

• Jack: After 15 year old Jack Gatehouse, an inspirational young local man, who despite suffering from both Downs Syndrome and chronic Epilepsy since birth, became one of Hemel Hempsteads chosen torch bearers in the run up to the London 2012 Olympic Games.

• Brocks: To reflect on the former Brocks Firework building, which used to be located on the site of Woodhall Farm.

An eighth bus is also to be named after Dave Gill, a dedicated Green Line driver and member of Arriva’s Hemel Hempstead team for over 20 years who sadly passed away in November 2013.

Paul Dove, the father of Billy, was in attendance at the event, and said: "We are really honoured to have a bus named after our beloved Billy. This shows the strength of feeling in the town, and the love that is still here for him over 2 years after his death.

PAGE 24 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

"While nothing will ever bring back my son, we are doing all we can to make sure the people of Hemel never forget him. Billy's legacy will live on.

Thank you so much to all the people who voted."

Simon Fancourt, who was shocked to discover a vehicle was to be named in his honour, added: "I was bowled over to hear that I had even been nominated - to think that someone thought to put my name forward is lovely. We have a strong team of leaders at 1st Apsley and with their help we have grown our Scout Group to almost 300 members over the last 20 years.

"Thanks to everyone who voted, I was speechless when I received the message that a bus will be driving around Hemel with my name on!"

Having invested £1.2m into the introduction of the vehicles in November 2014, Arriva was keen to officially mark their launch by giving each bus an individual and unique identity that will aptly reflect the local community.

The new single deck buses

Simon 'Arky' Fancourt are currently in operation on the number 2 route in Hemel Hempstead. With great value travel from as little £10 a week, these new buses mean it is time to leave the car at home and give the bus a go.

For more information about routes and services across Hemel Hempstead, please visit www.arrivabus.co.uk

Billy Dove's family on board the bus named in his honour

Scouts Celebrate St George at the XC O

n Wednesday 23rd April over 600 members of Hemel Hempstead District Scouts gathered together at the XC to Celebrate St George, have fun and renew their promise to Scouting. St George’s Day is traditionally one of the biggest events in the Scouting year, and this year demonstrated a fresh approach that was a million miles away from the days of marching through the town with flags.

Early in the evening the Beavers and Cubs (age 6-10) arrived to try climbing, circus skills and the skate park, while others took advantage of a special craft and games area. At 7pm the Scouts, Explorers and adult members joined them and all 600+ members assembled in the skate park area, to make their annual promise renewal. Hemel District was delighted to welcome Scouts from neighbouring areas who came to join them. The promise renewal was witnessed by parents and friends, and was in the presence of representatives from Hertfordshire Scouts.

After the formal part of the evening the Beavers and Cubs went home and over 200 Scouts, Explorer Scouts and adult members headed off to various parts of the XC – high ropes, caving, bouldering and climbing, the skate park (with scooters, BMXs, skateboards, skates), circus skills, coordination games and craft.

Scouting in Hemel Hempstead is on the increase, with more young people than ever before joining the organisation, and the District is enjoying its highest ever membership figures – 1,174 people in uniform, which doesn’t include parent and occasional helpers. 1st Kings Langley and 1st Apsley

are both reporting higher numbers than last year and are still recruiting both children and adults.

To join the adventure of Scouting in Hemel Hempstead please contact 07860 848603 or email join@ hemel-scouts.co.uk

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 25

A Ground Breaking Play For Kings Langley Players A

fter a season of comedies the Kings Langley Players are excited to present, as their next production, a serious play about serious events and a serious man: Breaking The Code by Hugh Whitemore (84 Charing Cross Road, Pack of Lies, Stevie). When Breaking The Code won awards in the West End and on Broadway in the mid eighties it pushed the envelope of popular acceptability – and brought to world attention a different kind of World War Two hero.

Not a dashing man of action but a man of thought, a visionary mathematician.

Also, at a time when to be gay was against the law, a convicted homosexual. The man who saved thousands of British lives by breaking the Enigma code used by the German U boats. The enigmatic Alan Turing.

“That’s not to say it’s by any means doom-and-gloom” says director Jean Balmforth, “Hugh Whitemore tells Turing’s story in a series of tight scenes, mainly one-toone conversations that move backwards and forwards in time. It is an elegant construction and plays out as tensely as a thriller.

There is an ironic English sensibility at work, a wry sense of humour that means this is so much more than a story of state ingratitude and persecution of a man

who’d been instrumental in saving it. This reflects the man himself, Turing had an irreverent sense of humour and was not down and out because of his fall from grace.”

It was only a few months ago that Turing made headlines when he was granted a royal pardon (and he even received a nod in the Budget with the Chancellor announcing the setting up of the Alan Turing Institute to do big data and algorithm research). His remarkable originality of mind (which envisioned the Universal Machine a decade before the first computer was built) is reflected by his refusal to stay within boundaries – either of accepted sexual conduct or the bounds of one scientific discipline. He produced ideas that didn’t fit neatly into one compartment of thought.

“It is timely to flesh out people’s image of the man who is continually making headlines over fifty years since his appallingly early death at 41. In Breaking The Code we encounter Turing’s mother, his boyhood friend, his almost girl friend, the young man who brings him to disgrace ... We meet the real man and discover his eccentricity and his lovability.

Rehearsals are an intensive process – but so much fun!

All the cast are relishing the chance to deliver a play with

Back Row (l to r): Mike Crow, Andrew Knight, Mischa Attias Front Row (l to r): Alan Yates, Sally-Anne Rafferty, Dave Barron (Alan Turing), Catherine Ball, Jamie Yates photo by Ron Balmforth real emotional heft.”

And Jean reckons they can have no greater motivator than Dave Barron (the forlorn Beast in KLP’s panto and the outrageous Sir Percy Shorter in Habeas Corpus) in the leading role of Alan Turing.

Not only has he committed himself to learning a huge chunk of words, as Turing is in every scene but one; he is also sacrificing his cherished beard and rocker’s locks to the demands of clean-shaven forties’ style!

The Players’ intriguing

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and exciting production of Breaking The Code will be on stage at Kings Langley Community Centre 22-24 May 2014.

The online box office is live twenty-four seven! Just go to the website at www.klp.org.uk to book exactly the seats you want, for the performance you want – at the click of a mouse!

(If you’re not on-line you can, of course, still ring the KLP on 07906 695959.)

an event you would like us to advertise?

Contact Julie on 01923 270160 Most event listings are free

Ice Skating Show F

amilies and friends were able to witness a spectacular performance of skaters at Planet Ice in Hemel Hempstead on Saturday 26th April.

Skaters of various levels took part with different themed dances such as the Hairspray, Annie, Aladdin, Matilda, Wizard of Oz, Fame, Singing in the Rain, Lion King as well as many solo dances at the ice rink at Jarman Park. The event was organised by Courtney Gowers, one of the coaches at Planet Ice. Planet Ice will be closing soon for refurbishment but they will be back again

Girls and boys perform Hairspray at Planet Ice

in the early autumn with all their various skating lessons, birthday parties, after school skating, junior

disco, parent and toddler and lots more.

For more information on their activities, prices and

opening times please visit www.planet-ice.co.uk or telephone 08458 725 799.

Billy Dove

Fun Day

I

n November 2011, former Kings Langley School pupil Billy Dove was murdered in Hemel Hempstead. His father Paul set up a charity to fight knife crime, and a football team, Doves United, made up of Billy’s family and friends to celebrate Billy’s life.

Doves United has gone from strength to strength and has in their second season has finished as champions of the Berkhamsted Sunday League First Division.

On Saturday 21st June, to celebrate Billy’s life and to promote positive activities for the young people of Hemel Hempstead, we are holding the 3rd annual BILLY DOVE MEMORIAL CUP AND FUN DAY at Hemel Hempstead Town Football Club. Special guests the UK 3 LIONS will be taking on the might of Doves United for the cup, and entertaining the crowds late afternoon.

The UK 3 LIONS is a team made up of ex professional players, TV presenters, musicians and rappers, who love their football and their music. After the hugely successful event last year, we have moved the event to a larger, more central venue.

The afternoon will be host to a six a side football tournament and plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.

More details will follow next month.

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 27

Car Ramps Stolen From Olivers

P

olice are appealing for witnesses and information after two car ramps were stolen in Kings Langley.

The offence occurred between Monday, March 17th and Wednesday, March 19th in Oliver Sons LTD home park works on Station Road.

Offender(s) have entered the premises and have taken two metal car ramps that were stored outside the building.

The ramps are described as metal with aluminium framework and 18 inches

wide and 10 feet long. They had aluminium slats to form the drive on surface, which is used to attach to the rear of flatbed trailers to allow the loading of vehicles.

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact Herts Police non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference number C2/14/573. Alternatively call Crimestoppers, the independent charity, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Kings Langley School Plans

lans were on display at Kings Langley School on 30th April for their rebuild which is due to start in February 2015 and complete in March 2017.

A steady flow of visitors from opening at 3.30pm until 7.30pm saw local parents and residents who are generally interested in the plans.

The new building looks quite impressive and has been designed to high environmental standards, including some solar panels on the roofs.

Various people, including

architect, designers and teachers were on hand to answer many questions. A popular subject was the loss of the swimming pool but which will be kept open until all the new builds are ready for use and the old buildings to be demolished.

The Education Funding Agency has now appointed Interserve Kajima to construct the new school.

Drawings can be found on the school website at http:// www.kingslangley.herts.sch. uk/

Impressive steady stream of residents visited the school to see the plans for the new school build

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Kings Langley Football Club Tuesday 25th March SSML Division 1 Cup Quarter Final Baldock Town 1 (Harman 27) Kings Langley 2 (Carter 44, Bateman 98) (after extra time) Another Cup tie and Kings made six changes, bringing in keeper Steve Bourke and current Under 18 players, Tom Bourke and Matt Bateman. Starting with an unfamiliar back four formation, Kings found the going tough and Steve Bourke had pulled off two good saves before an optimistic 60 yard back pass saw his underpressure clearance fall nicely for striker Lee Harman, who kept his cool to give Town the lead. The away management responded by changing tactics with Lee Burgoyne left of a back three and the impact was immediate. Tom Carter, who had been just off target earlier, put a shot on the run just over and Matt Bateman had a snap shot well saved by Nicky Stillwell. However, the latter was powerless when Carter’s fierce shot took a deflection to loop over him on the stroke of halftime.

Nathan Aulsbury found space but hit the base of the post, Tom Bourke had a fizzer from the wing tipped over and Jack Johnson saw his shot cleared off the line as both sides battled for a place in the semis. Louis Taylor spurned a last minute chance for Town when through, but the unwanted guest duly arrived and extra time commenced. Nine minutes in and Kings won a corner on the left, taken by Alex Campana. The ball swung into a packed box and frantic activity ended with Matt Bateman cracking the ball home on what must have been the third attempt.. Campana hit the bar five minutes later, but Town threw everything but the kitchen sink at Kings in the second period of extra time. There was fortune when Baldock were inches away from a connection with the goal gaping, but courage when Steve Bourke pulled off a point bank save at feet.

It was fitting that his was virtually the last touch of a gruelling but entertaining tie, tipping the ball past the post to finally break Baldock hearts.

Line-up (4-4-2);- S Bourke – Hutchins, Ladyman, Collier (J Toomey), T Bourke – Johnson, Hitchcock (Preston),

Burgoyne, Carter – Pritchard (Campana), Bateman Thursday 27th March Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Kings Langley 8 (Carter 3, Toomey 14, Campana 23, 48, 50, 54 Johnson 39, Insley 72) Kentish Town 0 The fixture pile up affects all Clubs and Town were without five regulars, while Kings had already rung the changes on Tuesday and fielded a virtual first choice team. The difference was evident and Kings romped to victory with four goals in each half. Danny Hutchins and Lee Burgoyne combined to give Tom Carter a clear shot on three minutes and Connor Toomey doubled the lead soon after. Philip Ankrah broke through in a rare attack but put his finish past the post, before Jack Johnson provided a cross for Alex Campana to open his account and then scored himself with a deflected shot.

Jamie Prouten pulled off two acrobatic saves, but the onslaught continued in the second half as Alex Campana added three goals in a magic six minutes. The first was a jinking solo run and finish, the second a close conversion from the industrious Toomey’s run and cross and the third a duplicate from Jack Johnson’s build up. As Kings dominated, Toomey hit the bar, but a woeful back-pass let substitute Paul Insley in to round the keeper to complete the scoring and Town’s misery. The predominantly young team were to be applauded for continuing to try to play neat interpassing football to the end and Jordan McFarlane caught the eye with several runs. Kings’ defence of Ant Ladyman, Craig Preston, Dean Hitchcock and Callum Adebiyi will have had harder games, but continue to be the meanest in the division, while Johnson and Burgoyne caused havoc on the wings and Tom Carter and Danny Hutchins showed their versatility in different roles from usual.

Campana and Toomey complemented each other well up front and Kings withdrew the busy Gary Connolly as a precaution, following a knock ten minutes from the end.

Line-up (3-4-1-2);- A Ladyman – Hitchcock (Izzard), Preston, Adebiyi – Johnson, Hutchins, Connolly,

Burgoyne (Insley) – Carter – Campana, Toomey (Bateman) Saturday 29th March Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Chesham United Reserves 0 Kings Langley 3 (Toomey 12, 15, Insley 57) Kings started their fourth game in a week with little sign of tiredness and Alex Campana scraped the crossbar with a dipping shot, before Connor Toomey put them ahead with a bizarre goal after twelve minutes. He lost control of a through pass, prodded a foot to the loose ball and saw it deflected off a defender goalwards. Keeper Jack Hopwood’s intended clearance turned into an air kick and the ball trickled over the line. There was nothing fortunate about his second goal three minutes later however, as he controlled a long Lee Burgoyne through ball, turned, eluded his marker and found the corner of the net. The referee then turned the tone of the match by issuing a plethora of cards for innocuous offences and the half ended with his performance the centre of attention. Fortunately, the break calmed things down and when Lee Burgoyne’s corner was headed back across goal by Craig Preston, Paul Insley’s powerful header effectively sealed the win.

The introduction of some pacy substitutes brought United more possession than they had previously enjoyed and Ant Ladyman dealt well with a snap shot from Tashan Dwyer, while at the other end Hopwood held Gary Connolly’s long shot at the second attempt.

The home keeper drew applause for tipping a Tom Carter drive round the base of the post before time was called on another competent

performance by Kings and another clean sheet.

Line-up (3-4-1-2);- A Ladyman – Hitchcock (Ladyman), Preston, Adebiyi – Pattison, Johnson, Connolly, Burgoyne (Bourke) – Carter – Campana (Insley), Toomey Thursday 3rd April SSML Challenge Cup – Quarter Final Kings Langley 1 (Collier 34) Stotfold 2 (Sagwete 47, 52) With the League a priority, Kings fielded only three regulars and gave debuts to defender Adam Byrne and all three substitutes.

Stotfold were also suffering from the relentless pace, having emerged victorious from the previous round only 48 hours earlier and upped their figure to six regulars. However, as both sides started quietly, it was Kings who were first to up the pace and Sam Izzard had a twenty yard piledriver tipped round the post by Michael Parkin. With Lee Burgoyne in the thick of the action, the home side continued to attack and their lead was richly deserved when Danny Hutchins swung over a pin point cross from the right and Matt Collier climbed to head the ball home. A Hutchins corner resulted in a Bradley Hedges shot narrowly wide and Stotfold had to wait until the last minute of the half for their first real goal threat, when Steve Bourke pushed a Stevie Thomas shot round the upright. An audacious 30 yard lobbed shot from Billy Stevens hit the bar as the second half opened, but suddenly the game turned as the pacy Nyasha Sagwete broke free to outstrip the defence and beat Steve Bourke. Bradley

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 29

Hedges demonstrated sublime skills with a mazy run through three defenders to play in Paul Insley, but his shot was bravely blocked

by Parkin. Minutes later, Stotfold delivered the killer blow as Sagwete, Sinclair and Thomas finally began to look a threat to the home defence and a long throw found the unmarked Sagwete who put a close range header past the keeper. The visitors hit a post a minute later, but the young Kings side rode the storm and inspired by Burgoyne, saw Insley again denied by the impressive Parkin. There was to be no reprieve, but the Cup run has given both vital experience to several young players and valuable options to the management.

Line-up (3-5-2);- S Bourke – Pattison (Trevillion), Byrne, Burgoyne – Hutchins, Izzard, B Stevens, Hedges (J Stevens), T Bourke (McCausland) – Collier, Insley Saturday 5th April Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Langford 0 Kings Langley 8 (Campana 5,17,40, Carter 30, Connolly 65pen,77,86, Insley 85) With the Division One promotion stakes now down to a three horse race, Kings had to be in ruthless mode against Langford, who parted company with their manager on Wednesday. Alex Campana started them on the path to victory with a low and powerful free kick after five minutes and the striker turned and converted a Jack Pattison pass soon afterwards. Langford exerted some pressure on the Kings’ defence with a couple of corners on twenty minutes, but a flowing move from defence between Dean Hitchcock, Tom Carter and Connor Toomey ended with Carter’s low header extending the lead on the half hour mark. A satisfactory first period was then rounded off when Pattison’s cross was blocked, but fell kindly for Campana to complete his sixth hat trick of the season from close range. Langford showed more resolution as the second half opened and Josh Cranwell drew a good save from Steve Bourke when through on goal. Kings then proceeded to waste a string of chances, with Alex Campana and Connor Toomey either putting wide or being foiled in one-on-one situations with Adam Harper. But when Callum Adebiyi went on one of his trademark power surges, the only way it could be halted was illegally and Gary Connolly dispatched the resultant penalty. The skipper

was put through soon after to hook past Harper for number six and when Taylor Rheney and Keiran Ellis muffed a chance on the outnumbered Steve Bourke, home heads went down and Paul Insley flicked in a goal that was the hardest of the numerous chances that had fallen his way. The final act of note came when a mesmerising run across the width of the pitch by Alex Campana ended with his pinpoint cross giving Gary Connolly the easiest of close range headers to complete his own hat trick four minutes from the end.

Line-up (3-5-2);- S Bourke – Hitchcock, Preston (Ladyman), Adebiyi – Pattison, Johnson (Izzard), Connolly, B Stevens (Insley), Carter – Toomey, Campana Wednesday 9th April Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Baldock Town 1 (Harman 19) Kings Langley 2 (Connolly 75, Adebiyi 90+1) With the top two setting a relentless pace, Kings cannot afford to drop any points and the pressure affected them initially at fifth placed Baldock Town. A powerful side allowed them little time on the ball and when they resorted to a long ball game, it played into the hands of a towering, but well marshalled defence. Ian Morrison and Luke Gregson had early shots just over, while Alex Campana and Callum Adebiyi responded at the other end.

Town went ahead with a freak goal when Dean Hitchcock’s attempted high back pass hit the head of incoming danger man Lee Harman and sailed over Steve Bourke into the net, for a lead they were to hold for the best part of an hour. Kings’ luck looked to be

PAGE 30 | THE VILLAGER | May 2014

out when a Callum Adebiyi header then a Craig Preston shot were both cleared off the line, but they began the second half forcing a series of corners, before the speed of Harman broke through, only to be thwarted by the combined efforts of Adebiyi and Bourke. As the clock ran relentlessly down and an equalizer continued to elude them, the management duo rolled the dice, introduced Paul Insley and Sam Izzard and switched to 4-2-4. The Insley impact was immediate, giving pace and width and the home defence came under increasing pressure. With fifteen minutes remaining, they conceded a free kick and the quick thinking of Dean Hitchcock saw a steadying touch of the ball, an instant, defence splitting delivery to Connor Toomey and his low cross converted by Gary Connolly. As Kings went for the unlikely winner, fortune still played hard to get, as a cross saw no less than three consecutive efforts blocked on the line with the keeper beaten. Then on 91 minutes, the ubiquitous Adebiyi returned to the fray after attention for a facial injury and when a Campana free kick was met with the same trio of desperate blocks on the line, he was not to be denied, launching himself and the ball over the elusive line to complete the great escape and keep Kings on the tightrope.

Line-up (3-5-2);- S Bourke – Hitchcock, Preston, Adebiyi (Weiss) – Johnson (Izzard), Connolly, B Stevens (Insley), Carter – Toomey, Campana Saturday 12th April Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Kings Langley 6 (Insley 34,51,77, Carter 52, Campana 59, Weiss 90+1)

Codicote 0 A Paul Insley hat-trick and a second half tsunami finally swept away Codicote after Kings had laboured to a single goal interval lead. The visitors began in a combative style that earned them two yellows and saw the Kings’ physio on the pitch three times in the first 15 minutes.

Connor Toomey then endured ten minutes of frustration when his flying header was narrowly wide, his drive was cleared off the line and a snap shot hit the bar. However, when Dean Hitchcock and Jack Pattison combined to play him in, his unselfish flick set up Paul Insley to open the scoring ten minutes before the interval. After Toomey and Gary Connolly had further good efforts thwarted, the second period opened in similar fashion, with a grounded Billy Barnes saving from Insley. But the striker made no mistake when getting on the end of an Alex Campana cross and sixty seconds later an interpassing move between Campana, Hitchcock and Toomey ended with Tom Carter firing past the overworked Barnes.

Kings then made it three in seven minutes when Callum Adebiyi launched a long through ball to Campana who beat the keeper in a one-on-one and the talisman was then withdrawn as a precautionary measure. A spectacular bicycle kick was just over from Paul Insley, but when a surging run and shot from Jack Johnson was parried, he was on hand to pick up the scraps and complete a deserved hattrick. A James Taylor header was just wide for the visitors and Ant Ladyman made a point blank save from Josh Bronte to preserve his clean sheet. Luke Ladyman slotted

Paul Insley finds the net against Codicote

seamlessly into the central defensive role with a powerful performance and the finale to a satisfactory afternoon’s work was when subs Billy Stevens and Mitchell Weiss combined in the dying moments to give the latter a well taken goal.

Line-up (3-4-1-2);- A Ladyman – Pattison, L Ladyman, Adebiyi – Johnson, Hitchcock, Connolly (Stevens), Carter – Toomey – Campana (Weiss), Insley Wednesday 16th April Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Wodson Park 0 Kings Langley 6 (Toomey 1, 29, Stevens 38, 47, Weiss 44, Jackson 52) Kings Langley replicated the scoreline from their previous match with a scintillating display against a Park side that battled to the final whistle. They got off to the perfect start when Tom Carter’s astute pass fed a Mitchell Weiss run to the corner flag and his precision centre gave Connor Toomey a close range header. The scorer doubled his tally on the half hour mark when his free kick clipped the end of the wall to wrong-foot James Sturgeon and then Weiss repeated his earlier move, calmly picking out Billy Stevens for the former Under 18 to register his first for the club at senior level.

The provider finally got just reward for his efforts on the stroke of half time when Sam Izzard’s powerful shot was palmed away by Sturgeon, leaving the predatory Weiss with work to do before finding the net. The second half opened in similar fashion with a Lee Burgoyne free kick being deftly flicked in via the post by Billy Stevens and an unconventional back-heel by the irrepressible Mitchell Weiss giving Nick Jackson a close range sixth. Wodson Park had also had their moments and the story may have been different if Ant Ladyman had not produced a flying save to tip over a Sam Muir thunderbolt in the tenth minute. The home striker was also just off target as the second half opened, but although Park contested everything in a crowded midfield, they lacked a cutting edge and Kings put together some periods of interpassing in a bid to master a rock hard pitch that was entertaining but produced no further goals.

The night, however belonged to Mitchell Weiss, who seized his chance to stake his claim for more than a bit part in the final run-in.

Line-up (3-5-2);- A Ladyman – Pattison, L Ladyman, Adebiyi (Preston) –

Johnson, Izzard, Burgoyne (Bateman), B Stevens, Carter – Toomey (Jackson), Weiss Saturday 19th April Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Kings Langley 0 Sun Postal Sports 1 (Armstrong 66) The top of the table clash attracted a bumper Easter crowd that was the season’s highest, but they were not treated to an exhibition of football. Sun fielded eight exKings in their starting line-up and although both sides have passed the hundred League goals mark, they’ve both conceded less than a goal per game and it was the defences that held sway for the majority of the match. A tigerishly contested midfield allowed little time on the ball, thus limiting creativity and hurried first touches meant the ball spent an inordinate amount of time in the air.

A dour first half saw Kings have three chances when a Nick Jackson low cross was missed, Mitchell Weiss could have done better with a clear sight of goal and a Dean Hitchcock shot was narrowly wide. Sun had a Jimmy Armstrong break averted, but started the second half with Dan Tomkins finding the net but ruled out for offside and then a Scott Bonner header grazing the bar. It was then Kings turn to up the pressure and when Weiss put Jackson through, the outcoming Ross Hampton pulled off a good save at his feet. The striker then rolled the rebound of a blocked Connor Toomey shot agonizingly past the post and a Weiss shot was well dealt with. However, Sun’s next response was telling. A free kick from a 50-50 clash saw the ball hit the post in a melee and fall to Armstrong, who lashed it home. Steve Bourke’s flying save tipped a Steve Noonan shot round the post, but Kings ensured a frantic closure as they threw everything forward. In the last minute Kings were convinced they had a penalty when Callum Adebiyi was felled, but a decision that could have gone either way was in the negative as far as the referee was concerned.

There was still time for a goal-line clearance with Hampton beaten at last, but Kings were left to review a match that had gone on similar lines to the away fixture. Opposition that made more of less chances.

Line-up (3-5-2);- S Bourke – Pattison, Preston, Adebiyi – Johnson (Insley), Connolly, Hitchcock (L Ladyman), Carter – Toomey - Jackson (Burgoyne), Weiss

Easter Monday 21st April Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Southall 1 (Jibilou 89) Kings Langley 3 (Jackson 1, Connolly 54, Johnson 66) Nick Jackson was inches from converting a Mitchell Weiss pass after just 15 seconds, but atoned within a minute by steering home a Danny Hutchins cross from the opposite wing to give Kings a flying start.

The striker then put in Tom Carter but his shot was wide and Southall gradually played themselves back into the game with a Jerome Ecclestone header just over.

Southall’s approach work was easy on the eye, but their final ball was giving Ant Ladyman little trouble. However, it was apparent that the next goal would be vital and it fell to Kings in somewhat bizarre fashion ten minutes into the second half. It would be fair to say that Tom Carter’s shooting was not at its most accurate on the day and when a jinking Nick Jackson run and cross gave him a clear opportunity, his mis-hit shot seemed to be going high and wide. However, it suddenly dropped like a stone to hit the crossbar, taking everyone by surprise except Gary Connolly, who headed the rebound in from three yards.

Kings effectively wrapped it up when a free kick was partially cleared and Jack Johnson showed the home side how to finish with an accurate drive through a crowded box. Ant Ladyman held Ayouis Jibilou’s fierce free kick, survived Robert Jermaine’s cumbersome attempt to put both him and the ball in the net, but was disappointed not to collect another clean sheet when a free-kick was headed in at the far post in the last few minutes. Three players took further knocks as a season of attrition grinds to a close, but it was a character team performance to bounce back

from disappointment and keep the promotion challenge on track..

Line-up (3-4-1-2);- A Ladyman – Hitchcock (Johnson), Preston, Adebiyi – Pattison, Connolly, Burgoyne (Toomey), Hutchins – Carter (B Stevens) - Jackson, Weiss Wednesday 23rd April SSML Division One Cup – Semi Final Chesham United Reserves 2 (Cameron 62, O’Connor 88) Kings Langley 5 (Jackson 8, Weiss 34,64, Insley 46, Bateman 67) Kings Langley will appear in their third consecutive final of the Division 1 Cup after overcoming a spirited Chesham United Reserves side at The Meadow. Against a backcloth of rain that was to continue for the whole match, Nick Jackson was again quick out of the blocks, this time finishing from close range after Paul Insley’s shot was blocked. Mitchell Weiss showed composure to put Kings further ahead when he latched on to a long ball, wrong footed the defender, rounded the keeper and slotted home. For United, Tashan Dwyer was proving a handful on the left flank and Ant Ladyman had to pull off a brave save at his feet as half time beckoned. But It was Kings who delivered the killer blow in the first minute of the resumption as Danny Hutchins put Insley through and although Jack Hopwood parried his shot, he was powerless to save the rebound.

To their credit, the young

THE VILLAGER | May 2014 | PAGE 31

United side refused to capitulate and as the conditions became more treacherous, the game opened up completely as play flowed from end to end. Reece Cameron reduced the deficit with a powerful shot that skidded past Ladyman, only for an instant reply from Weiss, who was put through again to beat the exposed Hopwood. Chris Mason brought a flying save from the Kings custodian, who needed the help of his defenders to clear two off the line in as many minutes as United threw everything forward. The visitors took advantage of this approach when another Hutchins through ball gave Under 18 striker Matt Bateman the chance to finish with aplomb, but United couldn’t believe it when Ant Ladyman blocked a point blank effort that seemed a certain goal.

A fitting finale saw an Insley shot cleared off the line, before indecision in the Kings defence allowed David O’Connor to slot in Chesham’s second and complete the scoring.

The final is on May 7th at London Colney against Risborough Rangers.

Line-up (3-4-3);- A Ladyman – Collier (J Stevens), Preston, Adebiyi – Johnson, B Stevens, Hutchins, Carter

– Insley, Weiss (J Toomey), Jackson (Bateman) Saturday 26th April Spartan South Midlands League – Division 1 Codicote 0 Kings Langley 4 (Weiss 41,46, Campana 72, Insley 83) On the day that Sun cemented the Division 1 title, Kings continued their battle for the second promotion spot with a win at Codicote.

Nerves were evident in the first half however, as they started brightly with a Danny Hutchins 25 yarder hitting the bar, but Codicote came back to see Steve Bourke recover to save at the feet of Josh Bronti, waste a point blank chance from a corner, and then have Bronti miss a header he should have buried.

But Kings weathered the storm, created chances of their own and produced the defining moment just before half time. As another attack seemed to break down, the persistence and power of Mitchell Weiss robbed the centre back and suddenly he was through on goal. Work was still to be done, but he picked his spot and steered it calmly past Billy Barnes and Kings’ belief flowed back. The second half was a minute old when Gary Connolly

surged out of defence, fed Connor Toomey on the left, and his measured cross allowed Weiss to turn and beat the keeper again. The striker had the ball in the net again shortly after, as did Alex Campana, but both were ruled out and as the home side’s confidence ebbed, their attacks floundered on the defensive wall of Craig Preston and Jack Pattison, although frontman Leeroy Williams was still giving Callum Adebiyi the occasional problems.

Billy Barnes was now called increasingly into action, denying Alex Campana when through and turning a Connolly drive round the post, but he was powerless when Campana latched onto a Paul Insley instinctive header to beat him from fifteen yards and again when Mitchell Weiss’ perfect short through ball gave the industrious Insley a fitting reward.

So Kings go into the final week well positioned and still with all to play for.

Line-up (3-4-1-2);S Bourke – Pattison, Preston, Adebiyi – Johnson, Connolly (Izzard), Burgoyne, Hutchins – Toomey (Insley) – Campana (B Stevens), Weiss

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