harpenden NOW Sept 25 by wendy robertson

harpenden

Welcome to September

With the children going back to school why not sort out those jobs around the house and garden, as always we’ve got lots of local businesses from Accountants to Window Repairs to help you out, so have a look through to see who you might want to call.

To make sure you don’t miss out the magazines are available to read online every month. If you run your own business we‘d love to include you it’s so easy, just book your space online today.

Jane & Wendy

@theNOWmagazines

It’s free to get the magazines each month in your inbox visit www.theNOWmagazines.com to subscribe

Advertising Rates

12 months 3 months

£33 per edition

£40 per edition

£49 per edition

£43 per edition 1/4 page

£52 per edition 1/3 page

£64 per edition 1/2 page

£84 per edition £110 per edition Full page other options are available

Book your advertising online NOW Deadline 8th Sept for Oct editions wendy@theNOWmagazines.com 07983 588313 www.theNOWmagazines.com

Out & About

by Marc Aspland

Exhibition: Harpenden in WW2 until 30th Sept free

Open Tues, Thurs & Sats 11am-3pm

Using photos and personal testimonies, see how the town and its people adapted to the war. Harpenden Museum, EMC, Rothamsted Pk AL5 2FR

Lecture: Farming in Hertfordshire by Ian Pigott

23rd Sept 8pm £5 suggested donation High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden www.harpenden-history.org.uk

Whipsnade Zoo

This month the Zoo is honouring a variety of different animals, why they are important and how ZSL is helping them.

1st Sept International Primate Day

20th & 21st Sept International Red Panda Day 22nd Sept World Rhino Day

Included in admission cost £29, child £20.30 Dunstable LU6 2LF www.whipsnadezoo.org

The Art of Sports Photography -

An Evening with Marc Aspland

2nd Sept 8pm

Talk with Harpenden-based, Chief Sports Photographer for The Times and The Sunday Times. Harpenden Trust Hall, Southdown Road www.harpendenphotographicsociety.co.uk

Wednesday Wander

3rd Sept arrive 11.45am, walk 12 noon £6

Enjoy a guided walk and see the diversity of wildlife that call the reserve home at this time of year. Wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear Rye Meads, Hoddesdon, Ware SG12 8JS www.events.rspb.org.uk

St Albans Museum + Gallery

Play with Clay!

3rd Sept 10am - 3.45pm £6.50 per child

Create a model from air drying clay. Age 5+ Tour: Mayors, Magistrates & Museums

10th Sept 2.30pm

Hear about the galas and balls in the Assembly Room and the Cells where prisoners were held, and discover the hidden stories of this local landmark.

Talk: Fakes, Frauds & Forgeries

18th Sept 7pm £10 / Zoom £6

Join the Museum Curator as he recounts some of the many hoaxes perpetrated over the years, from Pilddown Man to the Cardiff Giant, and the Amarna Princess to the Golden statue of Tlazolteotl.

St Peter’s Street, St Albans AL1 3DH www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Let’s Do This

The Harvathon 4th Sept £12.50 - £35

This lapped event is great everyone, with 7 hours to run or walk as many as you like.

Kings Walden Road, Hitchin SG5

Hitchin 5k 28th Sept £12

Explore the historic market town of Hitchin on this fast, flat 5k, making it ideal for those looking to achieve a new PB.

Market Place, Hitchin SG5

www.letsdothis.com

Mayor's Annual Charity Quiz

5th Sept 7.45pm

Tables of 8, £20 includes fish and chips.

Park Hall, Leyton Road, Harpenden

www.harpenden.gov.uk

Adventure Cinema 5th - 7th Sept from £10.65

Outdoor cinema showing The Greatest Showman, Wicked, The Gruffalo/Stickman, Pretty Woman and Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration.

Adventure Cinema customers can enjoy 2 for 1 on tickets to Knebworth Gardens, Park, Adventure Playground and Dinosaur Trail

Knebworth House, Stevenage SG1 2AX

www.adventurecinema.co.uk

Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care

I & G Golf Day 5th Sept

Enjoy a round of golf and raise vital funds for Rennie Grove Peace and Crohn’s & Colitis UK. Includes coffee and bacon rolls, 18 holes of golf and a 2 course meal. Team of 4 - £100 per player

Verulam Golf Club, London Road, St Albans AL1 1JG

Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge

14th Sept 8am - 5pm £16, child £10, family £50

An unforgettable day in the Chiltern Hills, this is a challenge for everyone from experienced hikers to families looking for a fun day out and those walking in memory of loved ones.

Choose from a 7, 10.5 or 18.5 mile route. Princes Risborough School HP27 0DR www.renniegrovepeace.org

RAF Museum

Virtual Spitfire 10k 5th - 23rd Sept £18 - £30

Take part and collect a Spitfire 10k medal while supporting the RAF Museum and marking the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. This virtual race can be completed any time during the three-week period.

Battle of Britain 85 Weekend

6th & 7th Sept 11.30am £30 age 13+

See the historic Fighter Four aircraft, watch The Battle of Britain film (1969) and enjoy a buffet lunch and tea and coffee.

Barnet Food Festival 13th & 14th Sept from £5

Enjoy live music, children’s activities and food stalls, then explore the Museum’s amazing aircraft displays. London NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk

photo

Out & About

Waddeson

Outdoor Cinema

gates 6.45pm, film 8.15pm £15.50

5th Sept Dirty Dancing / 6th Sept Wicked Sing-ALong / 7th Sept Grease Sing-A-Long Immerse yourself in the magic of the movies, bring a picnic, camping chairs and blankets.

A Forage Around Waddesdon Estate 13th Sept 5pm £150

This unique dining event features a menu crafted from fresh, locally foraged ingredients, offering a true field-to-table experience.

Books at the Barn - Wendy Joseph KC 17th Sept 6pm £17.50

Author of Unlawful Killings: Life, Love and Murder: Trials at the Old Bailey, a Sunday Times bestseller and former Old Bailey judge, will talk about her new book Rough Justice. Includes a personal book signing session.

Waddesdon Manor, Bucks HP18 0JH

www.waddesdon.org.uk

The Culture Trust

Hat Factory Arts Centre LU1 2EY

LutonAid 20 5th & 6th Sept Fri £11, Sat £16, both days £22

20th anniversary of this local music festival, as favourites from the local live music scene reunite to perform, and welcome new talent, while raising funds for Keech Hospice.

Comedy Bar: An Audience with Airline's Jane Boulton 19th Sept 8pm £6 16+

A behind-the-scenes look at the iconic British TV series Airline.

Materials Market 20th Sept 10am - 6pm free entry

Browse and buy sustainably-produced materials for millinery or other design.

NOASIS ‘The Definitive Oasis Tribute Band’ 27th Sept 8.15pm £18.50

Stockwood Discovery Centre LU1 4LX

Artisan Craft & Food Market 14h Sept 11am - 5pm free entry

Hat Works LU1 2NQ

Exhibition: Making Headway: Celebrating

Sustainability in Hats 20th Sept - 15th Nov

Mon - Thurs & Sats 10am - 5pm free

The British Hat Guild show the incredible hats of many leading UK milliners.

Wardown House LU2 7HA

Music In The Museum 21st Sept 2pm £16.50 zerOclassikal presents an afternoon of South Asian classical ragas.

www.culturetrust.com

Brambleton Model Railway Open Day

6th Sept 2pm - 5.30pm

Showing off what the club is all about, while running

the railway as it was originally intended. £4, child £2

Off Highfield Oval, Ambrose Lane, Harpenden www.brambleton.org.uk

Bedford Running Festival 6th & 7th Sept

Choose from the Raring2go Mini-mile, Bedford 5k, Twilight 10k, Bedford Half Marathon or Bedford 20, all alongside live music, food and drink, outdoor cinema, health and well-being area, kids zone and a fun fair.

Russell Park, The Embankment, Bedford MK40 3RH www.bedfordrunfest.co.uk

IWM Duxford

Battle of Britain Air Show

6th & 7th Sept £49.50, child free

Step back to the summer of 1940, see historic Duxford come to life, both in the air and on the ground, marking 85 years since the Battle of Britain. Discover the sights and sounds of Spitfires, Hurricanes and more in flight, music and dance, living history groups and activities for all ages.

Duxford In a Different Light: Battle of Britain 85 25th Sept from 5.30pm £90

Photography event dedicated to this pivotal moment in history. Spitfires, Hurricanes and more will be brought to life against the backdrop of Duxford's historic buildings to create photographic opportunities

Duxford CB22 4QR www.iwm.org.uk

Enjoy your free time and let us do the hard work for you

General household and office cleaning

Moving in / out cleans

Experienced in elderly or housebound clients

Reliable key

Proficient in alarm systems

Phone for a free quotation 07909 091325

~ Taking Care of Your Home ~

 A great way to meet new people

 No need to read music

 No auditions

 Not for profit

Harpenden

Salvation Army Hall AL5 2TG

Wednesdays 10.45am - 12.15pm

Wheathampstead Mead Hall AL4 8BP (free parking) Mondays 1.30pm - 3pm

Out & About

Chiltern Open Air Museum

Crafts & Skills of the Iron Age

6th & 7th Sept 10am - 5pm from £13, child from £10

This full-sensory journey into the Iron Age will leave you with a newfound respect for the ingenuity, resilience, and culture of our ancient ancestors.

Traditional Leatherwork Demonstrations

20th Sept 10.30am - 4.30pm from £10

See the last traditional bucket-maker in the UK.

Chair Making Demonstrations

21st Sept 10.30am - 4.30pm from £10

Watch local craftsman Tim Harris at work in the Bodger’s Area.

Harvest 27th & 28th Sept 10am - 5pm £16, child £11

A family-friendly event packed with demonstrations and hands-on heritage skills, see a threshing machine in action, heavy horses, Tudor re-enactors, Morris dancing, sheepdogs at work, take a ride on a traditional carriage, apple pressing, visit the Chapel to see the Harvest display, and more.

Newland Park, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk

Bletchley Park

Talk & Book Signing: Dermot Turing 6th Sept 1.30pm £16

A special event celebrating the remarkable and often overlooked contributions of women in World War Two codebreaking. Marking the launch of Dermot Turing’s groundbreaking new book, Misread Signals: How History Overlooked Women Codebreakers, this event shines a spotlight on the female codebreakers whose stories have remained in the shadows.

1940’s Weekend

27th & 28th Sept £25.50, child £17

Experience the sights, sounds and spirit of the 1940s with live music, dancing, activities for families and demonstrations.

Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB www.bletchleypark.org.uk

Potato Shindig

6th - 28th Sept (weekends only)

Get your dungarees on and dig up your free bucket of potatoes at the Potato Patch. With more than 20 tonnes waiting to be harvested (that’s the equivalent of three and a half elephants) there’s enough for everyone, and Spuddy will be back on the Outdoor Show Stage. Admission costs apply Willows Activity Farm, St Albans AL4 0PF www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Herts Open Studios 6th - 28th Sept

This annual event enables artists and makers to open their studio doors, to meet visitors, talk about and demonstrate their work, and engage with an audience of art enthusiasts. Showcasing many different skills and media, including leather work and landscapes, wood turning and watercolours, sculpture and seascapes, plus painters and potters. There is a printed brochure to guide you around the studios, which will be available in supermarkets in August. www.hvaf.org.uk

Mend Your Jeans Crotch

7th Sept 1pm £6.13

A fun and hands-on event with expert instructors. Jefferson Eco CIC, 46 London Road, St Albans www.jeffersoncrafts.com

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre

Steaming Days 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th Sept from 10.30am £12.50, child £8.50

With full-size steam train rides, miniature ride-on trains, the Railway Museum, Visitor Centre, Railway Café and 25-acres of railway land to explore.

Moving the Mail

14th Sept from 10.30am £12.50, child £8.50

Celebrating the travelling post office and carriages, and an opportunity to learn about its role in accelerating the speed of personal and business communications.

Bluey 21st Sept from 10.30am £14.50, child £10.50

Come and meet the lovable Blue Heeler at intervals throughout the day, plus steam train rides and more. Station Road, Quainton, Bucks HP22 4BY www.bucksrailcentre.co.uk

Tring Museum

Museum Highlights Tour 9th Sept 3pm £6

Explore the incredible history of the Museum, hear stories from its past and discover its most iconic specimens.

Treasures of the Rothschild Library Tour

18th Sept 1.30pm & 3pm £15

Take the rare opportunity to look inside the aweinspiring Victorian Rothschild Library containing books dating back to the 1500s.

Tring Natural History Museum HP23 6AP www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/tring

Shaw’s Corner

Afternoon House Tour: Masterpieces

9th Sept 2pm £15

Get up close to the fabulous art collection and hear stories behind the artists and their work.

Day in the Life of a National Trust Gardener 24th Sept 2pm £15

Take a behind-the-scenes look at upcoming projects and get tips on sustainable gardening, how to increase biodiversity and build resilient habitats.

Shaw's Corner, Welwyn AL6 9BX www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Volunteers across the country invite you to experience local history, architecture and culture, all for free, here are some of the local events taking place.

Ashridge House & the Curse of the Bridgewaters 12th, 13th & 20th Sept 9.30am please book

Discover the dark past of Ashridge House, a former monastery used by Henry VIII for his children in this woodland walk.

Ashridge House, Berkhamsted HP4 1NS

Luton Hoo Walled Garden

12th Sept 11am - 3pm free

The garden will be open for visitors, dogs on leads accompanied by well behaved owners are welcome.

Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Luton LU1 4LF

Ayot St Peter Church 13th Sept 10am - 5pm

This beautifully preserved Victorian Arts and Crafts church dating from 1875 will be open for visitors to browse and take photographs.

Ayot St Peter, Welwyn AL6 9BG

St Charalambos Greek Orthodox Church

13th Sept 12 noon - 6pm please book

See this beautiful former Anglican Church built in 1841, and now the sole Greek Orthodox Church in Bedfordshire.

Lower Harpenden Road, Luton LU2 9QS

Panshanger Park 13th & 14th Sept 10am - 4pm please book

A weekend of activities celebrating the history of the Park, from former home of the Cowper family in the 18th century to its restoration as a nature reserve today. Dive into the fun with walks, talks and tours.

Hertford SG14 2NA

Pre-Reformation Wall Paintings in a Grade I Listed 16th Century Hall House

13th & 14th Sept 11am, 12 noon, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm please book

A rare opportunity to see these unique early 16th century wall paintings, recently featured on Celebrity Antiques Roadtrip. Learn what they tell us about the religious turmoil in the area on the eve of Henry VIII's Reformation.

Piccotts End, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AU

St Albans South Signal Box

13th & 14th Sept 10am-5pm

Visit the largest preserved Midland Railway signal box

in the UK and one of the few open to the public and next to a busy main line railway. Signalling demonstrations are run on the operating floor when requested.

5 Ridgmont Road, St Albans AL1 3AG

Rothamsted Manor 14th Sept 10am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm please book

Enjoy a visit to this Grade I listed Manor house, set in the beautiful grounds of Rothamsted Estate which is rarely open to the public.

Harpenden AL5 2BG

Smallford Station & Hatfield & St Albans Railway 14th Sept 11am - 4pm

Celebrating the 160th anniversary of the railway opening and environment refurbishment project, exhibition, artefact collection and guided walks.

Smallford Station Car Park, St Albans AL4 0HF

Walk: Battle of St Albans II 1461 14th Sept 2pm please book

Explore this fascinating Wars of the Roses battlefield with the Battlefields Trust.

St Albans Museum & Gallery AL1 3DH

Berkhamsted Castle Guided Tour 14th, 17th, 18th & 20thTours: 11am - 2pm

White Hill, Berkhamsted HP4 1LJ

Explore the ruins of this fine motte and bailey castle, with many royal associations, led by experienced volunteers. Please book

The Lost Wharves of BerkhamstedGuided Tour of Yesterday's Canal 15th & 17th Sept 10.30am please book

See the sites and hear the stories behind the many wharves which once existed along the banks of the canal and led to the growth of Berkhamsted in Victorian times.

The Bridge, Berkhamsted HP4 2NB

'A Walk Back in Time' - History of Berkhamsted in 10 Historical Buildings

16th & 19th Sept 2pm please book

A guided tour of this historic town centre, pointing out strategic places and buildings of interest.

Berkhamsted Castle, White Hill HP4 1LJ

Frogmore Paper Mill

20th Sept 11am & 2pm please book

See the world's oldest mechanised paper mill; the birthplace of paper's industrial revolution.

Fourdrinier Way, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RY

St Albans Clock Tower

20th & 21st Sept 10.30am -5pm

Discover 600 years of history with a visit to the only medieval town belfry in England. Climb the 93 steps to the roof, see the medieval bell, the Victorian clock, and the architecture display, grotesques, vaults and a cockerel.

Market Place, St Albans AL3 5DR

Hertford Castle 21st Sept 12 noon - 4pm free

Step back in time and experience the Castle lawn transformed to include a small settlement of interactive medieval encampments. There will be entertainment and the chance to discover the history within the Castle. Castle Street SG14 1HR

30th Sept 2025

We care about your small jobs too!

●Electric and Power Showers Fitted

●Ball Valves and Overflows

●Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and Basins

●Repair/Renew Stopcocks and Taps

●Plumb in Washing Machines and Dishwashers

●Repair Leaking Pipes

●Outside Taps

Dean Herrington 01727 764217 07830 159010

info@djmplumbing.co.uk www.djmplumbing.co.uk see our main advert on the inside back cover

NOW for some Entertainment

EMC

Exhibition by Harpenden Artist Hillary Taylor 2nd - 29th Sept Mon-Sat 10am - 2pm free Work including music-themed, asemic and other drawings, sketches and photography.

From Gold to Rio 13th Sept 7.30pm £28

An evening of the greatest hits of Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran.

Elizabeth Gowing: The Silver Thread: Silver Filigree & Traditional Arts in Kosovo 17th Sept 8pm The Arts Society Harpenden Evening

Sandy Burnett: The Age of Jazz 18th Sept 10.30am

With The Arts Society Harpenden Area

Uptown Girl: The Billy Joel Collection 19th Sept 7.30pm £29

With hits including My Life, Just the Way You Are, She’s Always a Woman, Piano Man, We Didn’t Start the Fire and, of course, Upown Girl.

5 Mistakes That Changed History 20th Sept 7.30pm £24.50

This hilarious historical storytelling show performed by historian and comedian, Paul Coulter, about five people and how their mistakes (big and small) changed the world.

Tom Smith 24th Sept 7.30pm £27.50

An intimate show of songs from his debut solo record and his Editors catalogue.

The George Michael Legacy 26th Sept 7.30pm Wayne Dilks and his band pay tribute to the late George Michael in this stunning show.

Eric Morecambe Centre, Harpenden AL5 2FR www.everyonetheatres.com

Watford Palace Theatre

The Illegal Eagles 4th Sept 7.30pm from £36.50

Featuring Eagles’ classics Hotel California, Desperado, Take It Easy, New Kid In Town, Life In The Fast Lane and more.

The Nat King Cole Story 5th Sept 7.30pm from £30

With Nat’s best-loved hits Nature Boy, Smile, Mona Lisa, Route 66, L-O-V-E, and Unforgettable, all set to a backdrop of rare archival images and footage.

Wannabe: The Spice Girls Show

6th Sept 7.30pm from £25, 12+

Recreating the era of Girl Power with hits from Spice Up Your Life to Who Do You Think You Are?. Enjoy a journey that will make you Zig-A-Zig-Ahhhh.

Wifi Wars 7th Sept 3pm from £14

The live comedy game show where you play along: Log in with your smartphone and compete in games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes!

Mythos Ragnarök - Theatre meets Wrestling 20th Sept 7pm from £15

Part myth, part muscle, total mayhem!

Viking storytelling with high-octane action.

Backstage Tours 21st Sept 11am - 4.15pm free, please book

From its origins as a Music Hall in 1908, discover how this beloved venue has grown and transformed. 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

The Alban Arena

Arrival: The Hits of ABBA 4th Sept 7.30pm £29

From Waterloo and Mamma Mia to Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! and SOS, every song will have you singing and dancing in the aisles. Arrival recreate the feel and thrill of a live ABBA show.

Discos For Grown Ups 13th Sept 7.30pm £23 18+

Get glittered up for a fun, fab and feel-good night of dancing to the best 70s disco, 80s pop and 90s dance floor classics!

Ultimate Classic Rockshow 19th Sept 7.30pm from £33.50

Enjoy classic rock anthems from artists including Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Queen, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, The Eagles, Jimi Hendrix and more!

Jive Talkin’ 20th Sept 7.30pm £30

A chance to hear all the great Bee Gees hits; Tragedy, Night Fever, Massachusetts, Stayin Alive, Jive Talkin and more.

An Evening with Katie & Kerry 30th Sept 7.30pm from £29.50

Having been friends for over twenty years, Katie Price and Kerry Katona share stories of marriage and divorce, bankruptcy, ‘I’m A Celebrity’, the importance of family, their constant press attention and turning their lives around, plus a Q&A. St Albans AL1 3LD www.everyonetheatres.com

Barn Theatre

Magic at the Barn 5th Sept 8pm £10

An evening of illusions and entertainment, with renowned magician Darren McQuade bringing a mix of close-up magic and stage wizardry.

Jazz at the Barn: Lauren Bush Trio 12th Sept 8pm £12

Renowned for her enchanting delivery and impeccable phrasing, Lauren is hailed as a true standout on the international jazz scene.

The Herd 19th - 27th Sept 8pm £16

A hilarious and heartfelt look at a family coping with mental and physical disability.

Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST www.barntheatre.co.uk

The Radlett Centre

Magic & Marvels 6th Sept 2pm £12.50

Whether you're a fan of mind-boggling illusions or heart-stopping circus acts, this promises to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Bobby Davro - Everything Is Funny If You Can Laugh At It 6th Sept 7.30pm £27.50 18+

A masterclass in stand-up from one of Britain’s best loved comedians at the top of his game.

Griff Rhys Jones: The Cat's Pyjamas 9th Sept 7.30pm £29

Join Griff as he shares funny observations and comic stories.

Aldenham Ave WD7 8HL www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Taster Evening 9th Sept 7.45pm free

The choir would like to recruit new members, singers can be sure to find challenge and inspiration as well as having great fun singing with a friendly group of people. A basic ability to read music is needed to follow the scores, but previous experience of choral singing is not necessary. Please email membership@harpendenchoralsociety.org

URC Church, Vaughan Road, Harpenden AL5 4ED

The Old Town Hall

Austen’s Women: Lady Susan 10th Sept 8pm £16 age 12+

Return to the Regency (or rather, Georgian) in this wickedly funny tale of society and the women trapped within it; their struggles, their desires, their temptations and manipulations, and at the vanguard, Lady Susan: charming, scheming, witty and powerful; taking on society and making it her own.

Stone Foundation: Acoustic 13th Sept 8pm £22

An intimate acoustic gig with 4 members of this soul band. Expect some of their classics, alongside racks from the new album, Revival of Survival.

The Ayoub Sisters 14th Sept 8pm £21

These Scottish/Egyptian musicians are recognised for their ability to unite different musical genres and cultures through their unique compositional style making an exciting new generation of classical crossover artists.

Sam Avery: Thunderstorm 20th Sept 8pm £20 16+

In his trademark punchy style, Sam takes you on a journey through the chaos of the modern world, from parenting disasters to conspiracy theories.

National Theatre Live: Inter Alia 23rd Sept £15 2pm & 7.30pm

Oscar-nominated Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl) is Jessica in this searing examination of modern motherhood and masculinity.

Ria Lina: Riabellion 26th & 27th Sept £20 16+

Expect a relentless stream of hilarity as Ria explores the state of the world, the eternal battle of the sexes, and the delight of throwing life up in the air after years of following the rules.

The Old Town Hall, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE www.oldtownhall.co.uk

The Unfriend

12th, 13th & 17th - 20th Sept 8pm & 14th Sept 2.30pm £15

While on a cruise, English couple Peter and Debbie befriend Elsa, a lusty, Trump-loving widow from the USA. As they part they agree to stay in touch, without ever intending to do so. But when Elsa invites herself to stay, they look her up online to find out more about her. Too late, they learn the terrifying truth. How do you protect all that you love from mortal peril without seeming, well, a bit impolite? This is an excruciatingly hilarious modern comedy of manners.

Abbey Theatre, Holywell Hill, St Albans AL1 2DL

www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

St Albans Organ Theatre

Robert Wolfe: Organ Concert 13th Sept 3pm £15

Resident Organist at the Thursford Collection.

Mechanical Instrument Concert 14th Sept 3pm

Camp Road AL1 5PE

www.stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk

Come & Sing With Us! 15th Sept 7.30pm

Free Open Rehearsal with The Hardynge Choir

Dvořák: Stabat Mater

Mendelssohn: Oh For the Wings of a Dove

This friendly and supportive choir offers adult singers of any musical background an unauditioned chance to sing quality classical and contemporary choral music. They have rehearsals on Mondays term time at 7.30pm, and give regular concerts locally as well as joining forces with other choirs for larger scale performances and participate in community events. They also meet for singing weekends and socials.

St Helen's CE Primary School, Brewhouse Hill, Wheathampstead AL4 8AN

www.hardyngechoir.org

Amadeus Chamber Orchestra

50th Anniversary Concert

27th Sept drinks 6.45pm, concert 7.30pm

Mendelssohn: Hebrides Overture

JS Bach: Brandenburg Concerto no. 4

Mozart: Wind Serenade in C minor K388

Beethoven: Symphony No. 4

On the door

£18, in advance £15, child £1

St Saviour’s Church, St Albans AL1 4DF

www.ticketsource.co.uk

We are a small friendly law firm and understand that when facing a legal problem it can be stressful, so our aim is to make you feel as comfortable as possible and assist you with achieving the results you desire by listening to you. We specialise in Conveyancing, Family Law, Immigration, Litigation, Landlord and Tenant, Road Traffic Offences and Private Client, and our rates are very reasonable for this area. Book a free 20 minute appointment to discuss how we can help. There is free parking for an hour right outside. Prepare for the future and protect yourself and your family.

NOW at the Cathedral

International Organ Festival Recital 20th Sept 6.30pm free

Recital by James Orford, Organist of St Paul’s Cathedral. Includes William Walton’s Spitfire Prelude and Fugue, and music by Ralph Vaughan Williams and Herbert Howells. Donations welcome

Exhibition: Art, Conflict & Remembering: The Murals of the Bogside Artists 23rd Sept - 9th Oct

Featuring the twelve murals in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland painted between 1994 and 2006 by Tom Kelly, William Kelly and Kevin Hasson, known together as the Bogside Artists. These powerful murals tell the story of the Troubles as experienced by the local community, from the Civil Rights marches of 1968 to the signing of the Peace Agreement in 1998. On 22nd Sept there will be a Q&A with Tom Kelly, at the Cathedral Crossing at 7.30pm. Free, donations welcome.

Talk: The Stolen Crown: Treachery, Deceit & the Death of the Tudor Dynasty with Tracy Borman 25th Sept 7.30pm £20 In person & online In March 1603, Elizabeth I, the last Tudor monarch, lay dying at Richmond Palace. Almost with her last breath, she whispered that James VI of Scotland should succeed her. She died shortly afterwards and the throne of England passed peacefully from Tudor to Stuart. Or so we've been led to believe. In this illustrated talk based on her new book, bestselling author, historian and broadcaster Tracy Borman will reveal the shocking truth behind one of history’s best-kept secrets.

Receive a unique code with your ticket for preordering a discounted copy of the book. St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard AL1 1BY www.stalbanscathedral.org

What you need to know when applying for a ‘Child Arrangements Order’

When parents separate one of the most important decisions is where and with whom the children should live, and how they will maintain their relationship with both parents.

If agreement cannot be reached, then one parent may apply to the Court to help them decide, known as a Child Arrangements Order. This sets out the arrangements for the child including with whom they live, how and when they spend time with their other parent.

The Court’s primary concern is the welfare of the child, based on a ‘Welfare Checklist’ which it must consider, the key factors are:

 Child’s wishes and feelings

 Child’s physical, emotional and educational needs

 Likely effect of any change of circumstances

 Child’s age, background, and any characteristics the court considers relevant

 Any harm the child has suffered or is at risk of

 Capability of each parent to meet the child’s needs

 The range of powers available to the Court There is a presumption by the Court that the child would benefit from having both parents involved in their life, unless it would put the child at risk.

The Court will also consider the “No Order Principle” and will only make an order for a child if it believes that it is better for the child than making no order.

Child Arrangements Orders are legally binding, once an order is issued under The Children Act 1989, both parties must comply with the terms. However, a Child Arrangements Order can be varied if circumstances change and the existing order is no longer suitable, or in the child’s best interests.

Katie Skinner Senior Associate & Chartered Legal Executive Rayden Solicitors Harpenden

Out & About

Pioneer Club

Sip & Stich With The Fabric Folk 10th Sept 7pm

Learn mending and decorative hand stitching techniques to give new life to old clothes. Bring along a garment (non-stretchy fabric) you'd like to repair or personalise. £35 adults only

Stich With Your Kids & The Fabric Folk 14th Sept 1.30 pm £15

A playful, hands-on workshop where everyone can learn applique patch stitching using bright threads and colourful fabrics to create fun patches. No experience needed. All ages, under 16s must be accompanied

Escape To The City: Alternative/Indie All Dayer 20th Sept 2pm £25 adults only

A one-day music festival with some of the best new talent in the independent music scene, with styles from alt-rock to folk and cheeky indie to alt-pop. Heathlands Drive, St Albans AL3 5AY www.pioneerclub.co.uk

Statty Funfair 10th - 13th Sept 5pm -9.30pm

Exciting rides and stalls for all. Harpenden Common

Real Harpenden Beer Festival

12th & 13th Sept 12 noon - 10pm

With over 50 real ales, perries and ciders, a DJ on Friday and live music from InterFunk on Saturday. Harpenden Common

Ceramics Exhibition

12th - 14th 10am - 5pm free

Whether you’re a collector or new to ceramics, you will find unique pieces from both emerging and established artists, all reflecting The Guild’s creative spirit.

Kingsbury Barn, Branch Road, St Albans AL3 4SE www.dcpg.org.uk

Bedfordshire Steam & Country Fayre

12th - 14th Sept gates 9am Fri £15, child free Sat & Sun advance £17.50, on gate £20, child free Get an insight into country life at the turn of the 20th century when steam was in its heyday, with many working demonstrations. Visit the beer garden, listen to the band and watch the stage show, marvel at the

showman’s engines generating the fairground rides and attractions and more.

Shuttleworth, Biggleswade SG18 9DT www.shuttleworth.org

Hatfield House

Stately Live 12th Sept 4pm - 11pm £40, child £20

Combining world renowned tribute band, UK Pink Floyd Experience, with lasers, fireworks, lighting and an enchanting drone light show.

For tickets email mail@mlepyrotechnics.co.uk

Live Music at The Coach House Kitchen 12th Sept 6.30pm - 9pm

Tribute act Katie Wilson captures the essence of Adele from heartfelt ballads to powerhouse anthems. Firework Champions 13th Sept 4pm - 10.30pm

Three of the UK’s best firework companies compete against each other with 10 minute displays choreographed to music followed by a finale display.

For tickets email mail@fireworkdschampions.co.uk

Photography Workshop with Pete Seaward 21st Sept 1pm - 5pm £55

The perfect opportunity to hone your photography skills in a stunning natural setting.

Hatfield AL9 5HX www.hatfield-house.co.uk

St Albans Record Fair

13th Sept 10am -3pm entry free Loreto College, Beaconsfield Rd, St Albans AL1 3RQ

Dragonfly Walk 13th Sept 11am

Join dragonfly experts and dive into the world of these incredible insects as you learn about their lifecycles, hunting techniques and unique resting behaviours. Free, please book Panshanger Park, Hertford SG14 2NA www.panshangerpark.tarmac.com

Harpenden Food & Drink Festival

13th Sept 12 noon - 6pm

Showcasing the best of food and drink, including street food, outdoor bars, market stalls, live music, entertainment and a family zone for children. Town Centre and Harpenden Common

Gigs in the Garden 13th Sept 2pm - 6pm free

Music and entertainment on a summer afternoon. Cumberland Gardens, Redbourn High St AL3 7LN

Open Air Cinema: Top Gun: Maverick

13th Sept 9.30pm from £13.70

Verulam Golf Club, London Road, St Albans AL1 1JG

Sandridge 10k 14th Sept 10am £22 - £24

Taking a scenic trail through the beautiful countryside that surrounds the village, get together to celebrate the spirit of running and the beauty of the great outdoors. Starting and finishing at Sandridge Primary School playing field. www.sandridge10k.co.uk

Out & About

The Garden Party

14th Sept 12noon - 5pm

In advance £8, child £4, on the door £10, child £5 With circus skills, craft activities, a dog show, the Pimms Tent, Shop Local Village selling artisan gifts, live music, food stalls and cream teas. All in aid of The Hospice of St Francis Ashridge House, Berkhamsted HP4 1NS

www.stfrancis.org.uk

The Great Big Walk for Herts

17th & 27th Sept 10am - 4pm

A half marathon walk to support Herts Young Homeless, this circular loop starts and finishes at Brocket Hall, and passes through Heartwood Forest, Coleman Green, Nomansland Common and Sandridge. All funds raised will be doubled. www.hyh.org.uk

Guided Walk: Discover Harpenden

20th Sept 2.30pm

Meet at War Memorial £6, please book www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

The

Hanging of a Mouse

20th Sept 9pm £15 age 12+

Step into the flickering firelight of the Chieftain Roundhouse for a spellbinding evening of myth, music and magic, as the storyteller brings the ancient Welsh tales of the Mabinogion to life. Celtic Harmony Camp SG13 8NY

www.celticharmony.org

Art Course: Needle Felt

26th Sept 10.30am £45

Discover the joy of felting with this workshop for beginners, as you transform your wool into a masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s Starry Night. Please book 01908 714483

Dunstable Downs, Whipsnade Road LU6 2GY

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Drone Show: Space Safari

27th Sept 5pm £19.97, child £15.65

A drone light show experience that will take you on an interstellar journey, using AI and droneswarm technology, this captivating show narrates the adventures of the first animals sent into space. This is an unforgettable voyage across time and space, where the magic of technology

and the beauty of storytelling merge to create a cosmic adventure.

Herts Showground, Dunstable Road AL3 7PT

www.spacesafari.show

Strictly Joyful!

27th Sept 7.30pm from £13.20

An evening of vocal a cappella music with spine tingling harmonies performed by two amazing choruses.

St Peter's Church, St Albans AL1 3HG

The Libraries

Craftea - Monthly Coffee & Craft Social Harpenden 30th Sept 3pm - 4.30pm

Just bring your craft project and join in!

Children's LEGO Clubs £4.40, please book Harpenden: Mondays 3.45pm

St Albans: Fridays 4.30pm

St Albans Library, Level 2, The Maltings AL1 3JQ

Harpenden Library, High Street AL5 2RU

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Volunteering at the L & D

Luton & Dunstable Hospital have opportunities available in the new Charity Hub Shop, and on the Trolley Service which offers snacks and drinks to staff, patients and visitors. If you are interested and over 18 please get in touch CharityHub@bedsft.nhs.uk 07800 711370

SustFest: Travel & Transport

19th - 22nd Sept

To encourage a more sustainable and connected community, we want to show what we’re doing locally, and how we can make a difference. This is a great opportunity to consider and celebrate sustainable travel and transport, visit the website for details, here’s just taster of what’s planned.

Bokashi Composting Workshop

20th Sept 10am £5

Learn about turning food scraps into nutrientrich soil. Developed in Japan, bokashi composting is all about fermenting food waste to supercharge it with beneficial microbes.

The Green House, London Road, St Albans Harpenden Sustainability Market

21st Sept 10am - 3pm Harpenden Common Tea at the Halt 21st Sept 1pm - 6pm free

The disused ghost station of Nast Hyde Halt will be serving refreshments and offering a chance to see images that capture views of the former Hatfield and St Albans Branch Line Railway. Nast Hyde Halt, Alban Way, Ellenbrook Lane, Hatfield AL10 9NS www.sustainablestalbans.org