harpenden NOW April 17

harpenden April 2017

Tickets for the

Red Hot Chilli Pipers!

NOW

Easter Fun for Everyone Luton Hoo Walled Garden NOW at Verulamium Museum Bubbles, Jousting, Dragons & More!

Walk, Talks & More What’s on and lots more

read ‘the NOW magazines’ monthly promoting local businesses, organisations and events since 2006

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Garden’s Revival Beautiful gardens without the diggers, just plants • Beautiful plants • Luscious plant combinations • Long lived planting • All year round interest and mainly just a beautiful garden to enjoy!

If the above is what you want from your garden then don’t hesitate to contact Garden’s Revival, we offer a planting design service focusing on rejuvenation of plant borders or creation of new planting schemes.

For your FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION Please contact Jitka

07521 715638 www.gardensrevival.co.uk

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Welcome to April

Easter Fun for Everyone choc-o-bloc fun

Red Hot Chilli Pipers Competition It’s sunny and warm, there’s colour in the garden text to win tickets and everyone you meet seems happier because spring is here! Not only that, but Easter is a time NOW in the Garden for reflection so whatever your thinking, from the April tasks Christian perspective and meaning of Easter to Bubbles, Jousting, Dragons & More! simply enjoying family time and Easter Eggs, you April fun for all can’t help but appreciate all that we have at this Walk, Talks & More time of year. rides, walks & talks This month we’ve had lots of calls from new NOW for some Music advertisers and lots of positive feedback from you organs, classical & rock the readers saying how much you enjoy and use NOW at Verulamium Museum the magazines - so thank you to everyone for exhibition, talks & crafts your support and words of encouragement. We both enjoy working hard putting the magazines NOW at The Alban Arena together and are pleased when we hear you find music, comedy & more them so useful.

Luton Hoo Walled Garden Happy reading and remember a work in progress the NOW magazines are What’s on in April published monthly and are NOW at Shuttleworth always available to read on-line.

Just email cars, plants & tea wendy@theNOWmagazines.com Jane & Wendy NOW at the Cathedral to be in the 07983 588313 Easter services & more wendy@theNOWmagazines.com May editions www.theNOWmagazines.com What’s on in May Deadline: 6th April

4 6 22 24 32 34 36 38 40 42 43 43

44 Index of Businesses 46

accountants to windows & doors

To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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Easter Fun For Everyone Easter in Christopher Place 1st April Mr & Mrs Easter Bunny are giving away Easter treats from 12 noon 15th April Petting Farm 11 - 4pm 22nd April Bee and Butterfly event with free wildflower seeds being given out 11 - 4pm Christopher Place Shopping Centre St Albans AL3 5DQ www.christopher-place.co.uk

Eggstravaganza 1st - 17th April Choc-o-bloc family fun with the Easter Bunny, Easter Eggs and Bunny Hunts, shows, adventure play and farmyard fun.

Willows Activity Farm, St Albans AL4 0PF www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Holiday Activities 4th - 13th April 10am, 11.15am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm Craft activities and baking for ages 4+ £3.50 Mill Green Museum, Hatfield AL9 5PD www.welhat.gov.uk/millgreenmuseum

Art & Craft Show 15th & 16th April Saturday 10am - 4pm / Sunday 11am - 5pm Exhibition and sale of original paintings, stalls, live music, children’s colouring competition, refreshments, raffle and young artist of the future competition. There’ll also be an Easter Egg Hunt and Treasure Map Hunt in aid of Keech Hospice.

All other proceeds towards funding for a replacement surface for the bowling green and other facilities at Redbourn Leisure Centre.

Redbourn Village Hall www.redbournvillage.org.uk

Easter Egg Festival 17th April 2pm - 5pm The earliest known record of eggs being cooked and given to villagers to celebrate Easter was in 1285, during the visit of Edward I to Chenies Manor. To celebrate this tradition there will be a children’s entertainer, an Easter bonnet parade, egg & spoon and sack races and an Easter Egg Hunt.

Chenies Manor, Bucks WD3 6ER www.cheniesmanorhouse.co.uk

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The Olde Watermill, Barton Le Clay MK45 4RF

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Win a pair of tickets to see the Red Hot Chilli Pipers!

Red Hot Chilli Pipers - Anniversary Tour Celebrating 15 years of Bagrock!

Harpenden Public Halls 28th April 7.30pm Bagpipes with attitude, drums with a Scottish accent and a show that should carry its own health warning! Known for their infectious style of feel-good music, the band have sold out shows across the globe. Described as 'the most famous bagpipe band on the planet', they have performed for A-listers including Paul McCartney, Samuel L Jackson, Ewan McGregor, and even Her Majesty The Queen.

They have played at BBC Proms in Hyde Park, the Rugby World Cup and the Bahrain Grand Prix. Get ready for an utterly unique experience as the Chilli Pipers fuse traditional Scottish music with rock and pop anthems including Don’t Stop Believing and We Will Rock You. This will be a performance to remember! £20 www.redhotchillipipers.co.uk

Just text ‘Chilli’ to 07983 588313 by 10th April to be in with a chance of winning, texts will be charged at your normal rate

Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PD 01582 767525 www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

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01727 298

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Project Management, Renovations and Refurbishments Prompt and reliable service Recent works on Facebook: ACR.Build Testimonials and references from our happy clients on our website Please call Andy today to discuss your requirements 07971 544886 01582 203520

www.acrbuild.co.uk www.acrelectricalltd.co.uk

01582 864138 / 01727 453019 10

Freephone: 0800 688 9576 07950 975848

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DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd 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

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New Bike Shop NOW Open Cycle Tech Hertfordshire is proud to announce they have opened a bicycle shop in Bricket Wood, St Albans to complement their successful mobile repair and service business.

Owners Mike and Mo Narramore felt this was the right time to start offering a wider range of products to the cycling market. The shop has a fully fitted Service and Repair Centre providing a service from a simple puncture to high end technical. Technicians are professionally trained and Di2, BOSCH certified.

Distributors of Orbea, Diamondback and Raleigh bikes with a great range from kids, youth, adults covering the Leisure, MTB, Road and e-bikes market.

A full range of BBB parts and accessories, a highly respected brand within the biking community are available.

You can be guaranteed a warm welcome, and with a small ‘Kids Zone’ area where younger children can play, you can browse at your leisure when you bring the family.

Conveniently located on Old Watford Road – close to the M25 and A405 junction – easy to find and with FREE parking it couldn’t be easier. Why not pay us a visit!

97 Old Watford Road, Bricket Wood, St Albans AL2 3UN 01923 674555 sales@cthcycles.co.uk facebook.com/CTH Cycles

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An Independent Bike Shop to Suit All

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STYLISTS AND TECHNICIANS

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THE COVE SPA All your treatments in one place Specialists in results driven skincare, relaxing holistic therapies and industry leading beauty treatments Experts in anti-ageing, lines and wrinkles, scarring, acne, pigmentation, loss of elasticity, broken capillaries and more.

Complimentary skin analysis sessions Environ Skin Analysis events using the world-class Visia machine Multi-award winning Cove Spa 17 Russell Ave AL3 5ES 01727 833 808 www.thecovespa.co.uk

St Albans | Hitchin | Chiswick | North Finchley

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Harpenden Window Cleaning Fully Insured Gutter Vac (Gutters ● High Access Cleaned) ● Fully Experienced Window Cleaners ● Inside Windows Cleaned (if required) ●

Lots of recommendations and references from Harpenden customers Based in Milton Road 07757 499296 01582 450934 www.harpendenclean.co.uk

Kimpton Art Show 28th April - 1st May Part of Kimpton May Festival Weekend.

Paintings, ceramics and glass, with works from £20, there's something for everyone.

28th: 6pm - 9pm £5 includes a glass of wine 29th: 11am - 5pm £1 30th: 12.30pm - 5.30pm £1 1st May: 10am - 3pm £1 The Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul SG4 8RS www.kimptonartshow.co.uk

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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 Ironing collection / delivery on request Reliable key-holders Proficient in alarm systems

Phone for a free quotation 01582 750995 07719 657125 www.merrivac.co.uk ~ Taking Care of Your Home ~

To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW in the Garden •April is a good time to plant new shrubs and perennials, take a good look at your borders and plan changes before growth starts in earnest.

•Save money by lifting and dividing summer flowering perennial that have outgrown their space. Replant the divided plants into groups of three or five. April showers should take care of watering, but if it’s dry, water the relocated plants regularly.

•Weed borders; it’s dull but it has to be done once the temperature rises and weeds start to germinate. Remove every part of the roots of perennial weeds such as dandelions because any pieces of root left will grow into new weeds. And that’s frustrating!

•Mulch borders after weeding and replanting, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

•Put plant supports in place in the border where needed. Supports made from pliable hazel pea sticks blend in well. Tie in the shoots of climbing and rambling roses horizontally to encourage side shoots to develop along their length. More side shoots = more flowers.

•It should be warm enough now to repair bare patches in the lawn by reseeding. Choose a seed which matches the existing lawn and prepare the ground by weeding, removing any large stones, levelling, and raking to a fine tilth before sowing.

Star plant for April: Amelanchier lamarckii A small tree or multi stemmed shrub. Abundant white blossom and bronze coloured new leaf growth (pictured).

Vanessa Blain www.vanessablaingardendesign.co.uk

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Harpenden Bowling Club Open Day: 30th April 10.30am - 4pm Open Evening: 2nd May 5.30pm Harpenden Bowling Club invites beginners and existing players to come along and try their hand.

2016 was another successful season for the Club when individual’s or teams won titles at District and County level.

Players of all abilities and ages are welcomed by the club and everyone gets to compete at a level they are comfortable with.

Why not come along, wearing casual clothes and flat soled trainers, and have a go.

Spenser Road, Harpenden AL5 5NN www.harpendenbowlingclub.co.uk

07813 172888 01727 864815 hello@vanessablaingardendesign.co.uk www.vanessablaingardendesign.co.uk

 Imaginative and practical garden design  Elegant and innovative planting  Garden renovation  Ongoing maintenance "Thank goodness we found Vanessa!

Her thoughtful and expert guidance has been invaluable. She has listened to our ideas and helped in every way possible.”

Mr and Mrs Offord, Harpenden

www.arlandscapes.co.uk

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Bubbles, Jousting, Dragons & More Callisto #7

St George's Festival 22nd & 23rd April 10am - 6pm Celebrate the story of England at the biggest St George's Day celebration in the country.

Gasp as the lances shatter in the medieval joust; feel the earth tremble as the Roman Soldiers march; marvel as feathers fly in the falconry; and chortle at the cheeky jester.

Have a tea party with Georgian ladies, mind your manners with the manor house butler, meet a roaming monarch or two and watch fearsome fellows battle it out with club and shield in the Clash of Knights. Kids can have a go at circus skills, knight school, arts and crafts and more. The highlight is England's most legendary battle - see gallant St George upon his mighty steed take on his fiery green nemesis in England's ultimate show down. Throughout the day, wander the medieval encampments to see, smell and hear what life was like for the English hundreds of years ago.

Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HR www.english-heritage.org.uk

PAW Patrol 8th & 9th April A weekend of PAW Patrol fun as characters Chase and Marshall celebrate the opening of the new African hunting dog exhibit. There’s also special Meet and Greet Pup Boogie sessions for families to show off their best doggy dancing moves! The sessions are free on a first come, first served basis, available at 10am and 12 noon. Normal admission charges apply.

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable, LU6 2LF www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo

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27th & 29th April 8pm & Sat 3pm Harpenden’s High Street Players have been granted permission to perform Alan Ayckbourn’s family play Callisto #7. This is thought to be the first time it will be performed by an amateur group. A thrilling comedy adventure set on the edge of the final frontier on the outermost moon of Jupiter! Inside Dome #7 of the remote Callisto Science Station, 14 year-old Jodi and her young brother Jem wait for rescue following a serious systems failure. Where are their parents?

What's happening to the rest of the team? Are they the only ones left alive? Or is there something else out there on the moon's surface? £8, £9 on the door High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden www.ticketsource.co.uk/hsplayers

Chiltern Open Air Museum A Truly Scrumptious Day Out 14th - 17th April Celebrate all things sweet and sticky! Make delicious traditional treats, discover the origins of Easter traditions, make an Easter-themed craft, and dress up in decorated bonnets and more.

Springtime Lambs 22nd & 23rd April Meet the spring lambs born at the Museum and explore the traditional Chilterns farm and lambing fold. Learn about the lambing traditions of the Victorian Chilterns in the historic working farm and get involved in fun family craft activities.

Elizabethan Artillery 30th April & 1st May Learn about life in the 16th century, watch Elizabethans duel for your entertainment, and see exciting displays of artillery from the longbow to the gun in this family friendly, living history event.

Take part in the Children’s Bill Drill and see if you’ve got what it takes to be a member of the militia.

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

ore NOW at Knebworth House

The Amazing Bubble Man 15th April 11.30am & 2pm Louis Pearl, the Amazing Bubble Man has been delighting audiences of all ages around the world for thirty years, with his unique show of art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. He explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and spellbinding bubble tricks to keep you mesmerized. From square bubbles, fog and helium bubbles, giant bubbles, volcanoes, tornados and trampolines, Louis conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages. £11, family £42 Hertford Theatre SG14 1PS www.amazingbubblemanuk.co.uk

Carriage Tours at Woburn Abbey 8th April & 6th & 7th May Ride in an historic Landau Carriage around the grounds and gardens. Experience history brought to life as horses hooves are heard on the courtyard cobblestones.

Enjoy breath-taking views across the grounds of the Abbey from the comfort of the carriage which was frequently used here in the mid-1800s. Tours depart from North Court, where the Estate's blacksmith was once housed. The ride takes take you through the deer park and gardens as well as areas not usually accessible to the public. Timed slots run from 10.30am until dusk. £125 for up to 4 adults, includes tea / coffee and cake and entrance to the Gardens.

Please book 01525 290333 Woburn Abbey, Beds MK17 9WA www.woburnabbey.co.uk

Easter Trail 14th & 15th April 11am Explore the Maze and Dinosaur Trail.

Try the slides, zip wire and splash water play features at the huge Adventure Playground. Visit the gift shop and tea room for Easter treats and have a go at the Easter quiz trail, find the symbols in the Garden and Park to claim your reward.

Easter Medieval Jousting 16th & 17th April 11am Jousting displays, both days: 12.30pm & 2.30pm See knights on warhorses in a display of horsemanship as they demonstrate their skills in hand to hand combat. Try your hand at archery with the Green Dragon Bowmen, there is a small charge for 6 arrows.

Hertfordshire Garden Show 29th April - 1st May 9.30am See a wide variety of exhibitors including some of the best nurseries and specialists across the region. Talk to the growers for inspiration and new ideas.

All events cost £9.50 per person, family £34 which includes entry to Fort Knebworth, the Adventure Playground, the Gardens, Park and Dinosaur Trail. www.knebworthhouse.com

Stockwood Country Fair 16th & 17th April 11am - 4.30pm This family-friendly fair has something for everyone, from archery and animals to fresh breads and pies at the farmers market. While creative craft stalls offer a shopping experience with a difference with unique, hand-made jewellery, art and knitwear for perfect gifts and treats. £4.50, concs £3.50, under 5s free Stockwood Discovery Centre LU1 4LX www.lutonculture.com

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GREENSHOUSE & GARDENS Fencing, Supply and Installation Gutter Clearance and Repair Power Washing Summerhouse and Shed Bases Sheds and Summerhouses Supplied and Erected Decking Landscaping Gardening, Tree, Hedge and Plant Care Property Maintenance Qualified Electrician Fully Insured

Call Roger 07949 969446 or 01582 400408

Verulam Fencing  All Fencing Products  Top Quality Fencing  Repair & Maintenance  Fence Painting & Treatment  Gates & Trellis  All work Guaranteed  Free Quotations  Friendly Reliable Local Service Call Nick 07737 284711 nick.morgan87@googlemail.com Please visit Verulam Fencing on Facebook for reviews and pictures www.facebook.com/verulamfencing 28

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St Albans Girls' School, Sandridgebury Lane, St Albans AL3 6DB

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Walks, Talks & More

Ashridge Events Easter Crafts 3rd - 7th April 10am - 4pm Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre HP4 1LT £2 per craft Cadbury Egg Hunt 10th -13th April £3, 14th -17th April £5 10am - 4pm Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre HP4 1LT

Five Miles to Fabulous Bike Rides 8th April & 6th May leaving at 9.30am If you want to get fit and look fabulous this summer, the answer is simple…. 5 Miles to Fabulous women only cycle rides, who are celebrating ten years of fun, fabulous rides this year. The rides are on Saturday mornings, leaving Morrisons, Hatfield Road, St Albans (meet at the cycle stands).

South Herts Cyclists also organise mixed Saturday morning ‘Saunters’ and longer all-day Sunday rides. www.southhertsctc.org.uk

Sherrardspark Wood, Welwyn Garden City This wood covers about 200 acres and is one of Hertfordshire's largest and most important oak and hornbeam woodlands.

Spring Bird Walk 22nd April 7am With Geoff Ralph, Wood Warden.

Cowslips and Bluebells Walk 29th April 2pm With Neale Holmes-Smith, Environmentalist and Wood Warden.

Woodland Photography Walk 14th May For beginners and improvers, with photographer David Foster, please book for start details.

Walks start from Pentley Park entrance AL8 7SF Donation £3, under 15s free, please wear suitable footwear and keep dogs on leads.

To book call 01707 324718 www.sherrardsparkwoodwardens.org.uk

Fish Surveying on the River Ver 25th April 7.30pm - 9.30pm Talk on fish surveying by George Horne from the environment agency with an emphasis on brown trout. Just turn up, donation £2 St Stephens Parish Centre, Bricket Wood AL2 3PJ

Redbourn Through the Centuries 29th April 3pm - 5pm Talk by Kate Morris, local historian, author and former Mayor of St Albans on the 18th Century with as much reference to Redbourn as possible!

Parish Centre, Redbourn www.redbournvillage.org.uk

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Dawn Chorus Walk 29th April 5am - 7am Experience and identify early morning birdsong in a glorious setting with the rangers, breakfast at Bownlow Café included. £15, child £10, please book Dockey Wood Bluebells HP4 1NF 29th & 30th April & 1st, 6th & 7th May 10am - 4pm Visit the wonderful bluebells and learn more about this special forestry plantation. Countryside staff and volunteers will be on hand to chat about conservation at Ashridge and what they are doing to protect the special natural habitats.

Entry outside the times given is free.

Adult £3, child £1 Ashridge Estate, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate 01442 851227

Gary Rackley High Quality Decorator Interior & Exterior

M&M Decorators Fully qualified City and Guilds Over 20 years experience All interior and exterior work undertaken Specialist in all types of wallpaper All work finished to a high professional standard Free quotations at competitive prices

Insurance Work Undertaken Established 26 Years City & Guilds Qualified 01923 460701 07721 624326 garyrackley@hotmail.co.uk

Matthew Hayden 01582 270715 07970 720911

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NOW for some Music Heinrich Schütz St Matthew Passion Performed by Carillon Chamber Choir. The work is sung in English and performed as part of the two churches’ observance of Lent. Free 2nd April 6.30pm St Johns Church, Harpenden AL5 1DJ 9th April 6.30pm St Mary’s Church, Old Welwyn AL6 9LX www.carillonchamberchoir.org

St Albans Organ Theatre Organ Concert 8th April 7.30pm Phil Kelsall MBE, President of the Theatre Organ Club brings the 'Blackpool' sound to St Albans. £10, under 11’s £5, please book Musical Sunday Afternoons 9th April & 14th May drop in 2pm - 4.30pm £7, child £3, family £15 03003 656565 www.stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk

Boot Led Zeppelin 15th April 8pm - 11pm The Horn, St Albans AL1 3TE The UK's leading Led Zeppelin tribute band capture the magic and excitement of their

concerts from the early 70's. They perform classic songs, from mellow acoustic tracks such as 'Going To California' and 'That's The Way' to epics such as 'Kashmir' and 'Stairway To Heaven'.

With costumes, stage props and multimedia stage production come and enjoy the ultimate Zeppelin experience.

Advance tickets £12 www.thehorn.co.uk/tickets

Faire is the Heaven 22nd April 7.30pm St Nicholas’ Church, Church Green, Harpenden A concert by the Music Makers Choir of Harpenden. Come and enjoy a beautiful collection of choral masterpieces from across Europe, including works by Lotti, Bruckner, Rachmaninov, Finzi, Howells and Harris. £12, concs £10, student £6 07887 968 063 or on the door.

The Live Music Project 4th Birthday Bash 29th April 7.30pm £5, age 14+ An amazing line-up with headliners The Trailer Trash Orchestra bringing their blend of fuzzed up guitars, voodoo-swamp drumming and lap-steel, fiddle and mandolin that instils spine tingling delirium wherever they play. The Project is run by local music promoter/supporter, Denise Parsons. If you’d like to volunteer for the event or sign up to perform, please contact her at theparsonsknows@outlook.com Trestle Arts Base, St Albans AL4 0JQ www.trestle.org.uk

Geno Washington & The Ram Jam Band

Saxophone Teacher Currently in the 2nd year of a music degree at LCCM £15 half hour Happy to teach any age Please call Isaac 07715 862094 34

30th April 7.30pm Bedford Esquires MK40 2QG Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band (pictured) became established as the most exciting live band in Britain, regularly topping the bill over world famous artists. His latest live double album “It’s Geno Time”, recorded at the legendary Half Moon in Putney, is widely regarded as his best work to date. £15 www.seetickets.com

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NOW at Verulamium Museum

Exhibition: All in it Together until 30th April Featuring the reflections of local students on the role of our diverse community in the two world wars and beyond. Inspired by recruitment posters including those produced by St Albansbased printers, Dangerfield Printing Company, free for local residents.

Holiday Activities for Ages 6 - 11 please book, £6 Keep Calm and Colour On 4th April 10.30am - 12.30pm & 2pm - 4pm Design a T-shirt inspired by the famous wartime slogan and discover the impact of posters both in war and in peacetime.

Memories and Mementos 5th April 10.30am - 12.30pm & 2pm - 4pm Hear stories from the home front and from soldiers writing home. Discover the mementos that became so special and create your own keepsake inspired by ‘All in it Together’.

Front Page News - Tales and Tabloids 12th April 10.30am - 12.30pm & 2pm - 4pm Turn reporter for the day and design your own newspaper front page splash to take home.

Crafty Capers 6th, 7th, 13th & 14th April 2 - 4pm Inspired by ‘All in it Together’, make your own ‘Visit St Albans’ poster and an aeroplane mobile.

Ages 3+, accompanied by an adult.

Drop in activity, £1.50 Paper Engineering Workshop 11th April 10.30am - 3pm Make pop-ups with illustrator and paper engineer John O'Leary. Inspired by ‘All in it Together’, create 3D designs exploring ideas of change, transformation and misdirection. Bring a packed lunch and advise of any food allergies when booking. Ages 8 - 13, £15 Meet a Roman Soldier 15th April 2.30pm & 3.30pm Meet Marcus Aurelius Saturnius, a Roman merchant selling olive oils and spices. Originally from Carthago in North Africa, Marcus served in the Roman army for 25 years as a centurion.

Drop in, free.

Talk: Muslims in the First World War 26th April 7pm - 8pm Learn about the experiences of the Muslim soldiers who fought for Britain during WWI. Historian and former advisor to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Jahan Mahmood will use his 'travelling military museum' to lift the veil on their forgotten histories. Please book, £5 Mosaic Workshop for Adults 29th April 10am - 4pm Taking inspiration from the roman mosaics, create your own mosaic masterpiece. Audrey Montet, of Montet Designs, will show you how to make a mosaic pot or board. Using glass, ceramic and stone tiles. Please book, £75 Verulamium Museum www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk 01727 751810

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10% off with this advert SHUTTERS, BLINDS AND CURTAINS

Spring Special 25% off Shutters

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NOW at the Alban Arena The Sensational 60s Experience 1st April 7.30pm Seven legendary names take to the stage for a night never to be forgotten. Herman’s Hermits, Chris Farlowe, New Amen Corner, The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Fortunes, The Ivy League and Alan Mosca from Freddie and The Dreamers.

Naomi’s Wild & Scary 5th April 1.30pm Children’s TV presenter Naomi Wilkinson brings her show packed full of fun and surprises as she’s joined on stage by ‘Animal Mark’, and some of his scariest creatures. Ages 5+ Champions Of Magic 7th April 7.30pm Witness the impossible, including disappearances, teleportation and a heart stopping finale that sees one performer walk through the spinning steel blades of a giant industrial fan, all presented with lighting and pyrotechnics to rival the biggest arena productions.

New Jersey Nights 9th April 7.30pm A spectacular celebration of the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

Dick & Dom Live!

10th April 10am & 2pm A show not to be missed! Live on stage and bringing their unique bundle of fun and anarchy to life!

Robin Hood 12th & 13th April Another laugh a minute, all-singing, all-dancing roller coaster ride through pantoland.

Living The Dream Easter Showcase 15th April 6.30pm A variety showcase created by young people who want to make a difference through the arts, having fun, growing in talent and confidence and feeling empowered to believe in their dreams.

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Dire Straits Experience 19th April 7.30pm Chris White and Terence Reis collaborating again, with a stellar band of some of the finest professional musicians the UK has to offer.

An Audience with Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe Somewhere In Time 21st April 7.30pm Strictly’s favourite couple are back with a bang with a mix of Ballroom and Latin, fun filled entertainment and a close up history of all things related to their life.

Cinderella 22nd April 2.30pm Vienna Festival Ballet presents the classic tale of Cinderella, one of the bestknown rags-to-riches fairy tales of all time.

Spamalot 25th - 29th April 7.45 pm Sat 2.30pm Presented by St Albans Musical Theatre, inspired by the classic, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, this tells the legendary tale of King Arthur, his squire, Patsy and a selection of knights, who go on an epic quest to find the Holy Grail. This musical diverts from the traditional version of the legend as Spamalot features a flatulent Frenchman, beautiful dancing girls and killer rabbits! 2 for 1 offer on front stalls on Tuesday evening.

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain 30th April 7.30pm Pure entertainment, dead-pan British humour and foot-tapping music. Always doing the unexpected, whether re-imagining folk songs, twisting classical music favourites, uncovering quirky versions of rock covers, or playing the performers’ own all-original compositions. www.alban-arena.co.uk 01727 844488

EXPERIENCING HARDSHIP FINANCIAL OR OTHERWISE? DO YOU LIVE IN THE AL5 POSTAL AREA? IF SO WE MAY BE ABLE TO HELP CONTACT US AT THE HARPENDEN TRUST 90 SOUTHDOWN RD HARPENDEN AL5 1PS 01582 460457 email: help@theharpendentrust.org.uk Registered Charity No 1118870

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Easter at Benington Lordship 16th & 17th April 12 noon - 4pm After the Snowdrops have faded in late March the gardens are covered by Scilla bithynica, a dainty relative of the Bluebell that’s just as invasive as its wild cousin. With large clumps of Daffodils flowering at the same time Easter is a good time to visit, the orchard in particular is a carpet of blue and yellow. £5, under 16's £2, under 12's free.

Benington Lordship, Stevenage SG2 7BS www.beningtonlordship.co.uk

HeronWatch Each weekend and bank holiday until 14th May from 11am - 3pm, volunteers with telescopes will be available in Verulamium Park to show you the heronry on the lake's islands. Last year there were nine active Heron nests and two Little Egret nests.

There’ll be information available about Herons, the RSPB and local nature so why not pop along and have a look. If you'd like to volunteer please email st-albans-rspb@hotmail.co.uk www.rspb.org.uk/groups/stalbans

Luton Hoo Walled Garden Open Day & Plant Heritage Fair 22nd April 11am - 3pm Spring has sprung at Luton Hoo Estate Walled Garden so why not go along and purchase those all important plants for your garden, there’ll also be free children's activities and tea, coffee and cake.

Tours are run to give an insight into this volunteer led garden revival. Go along and see how the garden has evolved since the project began in 2001.

Entrance £3, under 5’s free, tours £2

Open Wednesdays 3rd May - 27th September 10.30am - 4pm An opportunity for visitors to see the progress being made while the volunteers are at work.

A £5 entry fee includes a guided tour of the garden, a tour of the Victorian farm buildings will also be available. Produce and plants from the garden will be on sale including Luton Hoo honey. Talks and tours for groups can be arranged on Wednesdays and also at your own venue. Visit the website for a list of topics.

Access via the A1081 between Luton and Harpenden, West Hyde Road/Newmill End turning LU1 4LE not via the hotel. www.lutonhooestate.co.uk

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What’s on in April

2nd Luxury Wedding Show www.luxuryweddingshow.co.uk 3rd - 13th Play in the Parks see page 30 4th All Kinds of Anything by Lorraine Sanders Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, 2pm 5th Open Day Chenies Manor, Bucks WD3 6ER 2 - 5pm www.cheniesmanorhouse.co.uk 6th LitFest17: Zoo Lab Harpenden Library, Zagara: interactive story session & animal handling, 2-3pm, £5 6th - 8th Loserville www.abbeytheatre.org 7th Harpenden Writers Meeting Quaker Meeting House, Southdown Road, 01582 760564, 10am - 12 noon www.harpendenwriters.com 7th - 9th Swimathon www.swimathon.org 8th Record Fair Harpenden Public Halls 10am - 4pm, free entry Family Volunteer Day Celtic Harmony Camp SG13 8NY please book, free, 10am-1pm Childrens’ Pony Pampering Day Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary HP4 3RJ 12 - 2pm, please book, £5 www.twooaksponysanctuary.wixsite.com 9th Circus Workshop The Hat Factory LU1 2EY ages 7+ 11am - 12pm, £2 Rye Meads Spring Fun Day RSPB Rye Meads Nature Reserve SG12 8JS, 10am - 4 pm, £2

11th Harpenden Gardening Society Talk & Plant Sale Roundwood Park School, 8pm, £3 wwwharpendengardeningsociety.org Family Bird Safari RSPB Rye Meads Nature Reserve SG12 8JS, please book, £6, child £3 12th Hippity Hoppity Easter at Burston see page 2 South Sudan St Mary's Church, Childwickbury AL3 6JJ St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society, 8pm 14th - 17th Vintage Easter Weekend Bletchley Park MK3 6EB activities free with admission, 11am - 2pm Easter Fun Fair Harpenden Common, 6pm- 10pm 21st - 29th The Matchgirls The Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST www.barntheatre.co.uk 22nd & 30th Introduction to Phonescoping RSPB Rye Meads SG12 8JS learn to take pictures of birds with your mobile & a telescope, please book 25th AGM & Talk: Treasures of the Archives Harpenden Public Halls, Harpenden Local History Society, 8pm 27th Floral Demonstration: Off the Wall by Jilly Griffin, All Saints Church, Harpenden, 7.30pm 28th April - 1st May Kimpton May Festival kimptonmayfestival.co.uk 29th The Live Music Project 4th Birthday Bash pg 34 29th April - 1st May Hertfordshire Garden Show see page 25 Bubble Rush www.stfrancis.org.uk/bubblerush 1True Grit www.onetruegrit.com

Ken Hodson Local Computer Hardware and Software Repairs Upgrades and Advice for Home and Business ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

No fix, no fee for all repairs - you have nothing to lose!

Low hourly rate Most repairs carried out in your home, if not the computer will be picked up and delivered back to you.

Problems with Windows / Applications / Games / Internet / Networks fixed Friendly training and instruction available in plain English Advice given on upgrades - many older computers can be upgraded at a fraction of the cost of a new machine Upgrades of hardware and software

07974 156743 / 01582 794723 enquiries@kenhodsoncomputerservices.co.uk www.kenhodsoncomputerservices.co.uk

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NOW at Shuttleworth Classic Rally and Autojumble 2nd April 10am - 4pm A vast array of classics on display from the pre and post war era, as well as some of the best loved cars of the 80’s. With witty commentary in the live arena and judges awarding class winners and ‘Best in Show’, plus trade and autojumble stands and craft stalls. There’ll also be flying displays of large scale RC models from The Old Warden Model Club. £8, child £4, family £24 Workshop: Garden Design 8th April 10am Learn the basics of garden design and pick up expert tips from garden designer, Philippa Pearson, RHS and Chelsea Flower Show award winner. Using the Swiss Garden as a base for looking at garden layout and landscape design, this workshop will include practical sessions and a tour of the garden.

Refreshments and lunch included. £40

NOW at the Cathedral 1st April St Albans Bach Choir 7.30pm Dvořák - Stabat Mater £30, £25, £18, and £12 6th April Family Discovery Morning Space: The Final Frontier 11.30am Explore space, the stars and medieval astrology with activities ranging from winding up the clock and making stained glass windows.

For ages 3 -11, accompanied by an adult.

NGS Open Day 22nd April Enjoy the garden in all its spring colour. £8, concs £7, child free

6th April The Devil’s Passion 7.30pm A new and engaging play depicting the Passion from the Devils point of view. www.justinbutcher.co.uk/devilspassion

Talk: Celebrating National Tea Day with Malcolm Ferris Lay 23rd April 12pm & 1.30pm With nearly 50 years of tea experience, Malcolm provides great insight into the history of tea and how to grow it. There will be tasting pots and demonstrations on blending tea followed by afternoon tea in the House. Please book £26.95

8th April Come and Sing: Stainer’s The Crucifixion rehearsal: 2.30pm, performance: 6.30pm Learn Stainer’s The Crucifixion with the Master of the Music, Andrew Lucas, for a performance in the evening. To take part £12, performance £5

Mad Hatters Tea Party 30th April gates open 11am There’ll be Morris and Maypole dancing, crafts and storytelling, croquet and picnics and entertainment from Alice in Wonderland characters. Enjoy a performance of ‘Down the Rabbit Hole – Adventures in Wonderland’. Join Alice as she meets some strange characters. Follow the white rabbit into a world of magic and make believe and have a cup of tea at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Bring your own Mad Hatter picnic and dress up if you can, mad hats at the very least! £10, child free.

The Shuttleworth Collection, Beds SG18 9EP www.shuttleworth.org

26th April Lunchtime Organ Recital 12.30pm 27th April Talk: Climbing Everest 7.30pm £10 Rob Lucas one of the leading supporters of the Alban, Britain’s First Saint project became one of the first mountaineers to reach the summit of Mount Everest since Nepal closed the area after avalanches and an earthquake killed 16 guides and 19 climbers.

Easter Services 14th April Good Friday 10am: Pre-school Children’s Service 12pm - 1.30pm: Preaching of the Passion 1.30pm - 3pm: The Liturgy of Good Friday 8pm: Unity at the Cross 15th April Easter Eve 4pm: Evensong 8pm: Easter Vigil 16th April Easter Day Festival services throughout the day 9.30am: Parish Eucharist 11.15am: Matins 6.30pm: Evensong 17th April Easter Monday Easter Monday Pilgrimage

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www.stalbanscathedral.org

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What’s on in May 44

2nd All Kinds of Everything by Rayna Shiach, Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, 2pm Harpenden Bowling Club Open Evening see page 22 3rd Gentle Bluebells Stroll Ashridge Estate, meet at Ling Ride car park HP4 1NF just turn up, 10.30am -12.30pm, £3 5th Harpenden Writers Meeting Quaker Meeting House, Southdown Road, 01582 760564, 10am - 12 noon www.harpendenwriters.com 6th Talk: Food Traditions of St Albans Verulamium Museum, 01727 751810, 2pm - 3pm, please book, free 7th Mayors City Sprit Triathlon 5km cycle, 200m swim & 3km run, in aid of Rennie Grove Hospice Care www.renniegrove.org 11th Chocolate Replicas Verulamium Museum, learn how museum replica objects are made, includes wine or a soft drink, 7pm - 9.30pm, £20 12th - 14th & 16th - 20th She Stoops to Conquer Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL 01727 857861 a comedy of manners with romantic entanglements & brilliantly comic characters 13th Organ Concert St Albans Organ Theatre, 03003 656565, music & entertainment with Howard Beaumont, 7.30pm, £10, under 11’s £5, please book www.stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk Brambleton Model Railway Club Open Day Highfield Oval AL5 4BX 2pm - 5.30pm 17th House & Garden Tour Southill Park, Beds, 01727 731010, £12, in aid of Grove House 18th Talk: Spies in the Sky: The Secret Battle for Aerial Intelligence during World War II RAF Museum London, NW9 5LL rafmuseum.org.uk 18th - 20th Two Memorial Hall, Wheathampstead play exploring relationships & behaviour of a landlord, his wife & their clientele, 8pm, £10 www.wheathampsteaddramaticsociety.co.uk 19th Ask an Archaeologist - Comedy Night Verulamium Museum, 01727 751810, with comedian & archaeological expert Paul Duncan McGarrity, 8pm - 10pm, please book, £7

20th Rossini - Petite Messe Solennelle High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden AL5 2RU Carillon Chamber Choir, £5 - £15, 7.30pm www.carillonchamberchoir.org Amadeus Chamber Orchestra St Saviours Church AL1 4DF Mozart, Beethoven & Janacek amadeuschamberorchestra.org.uk Nestbox Watch RSPB Rye Meads SG12 8JS 01992 708384, join the Ringing Group checking for chicks, 1pm - 3pm, £8 Enchanted Museum Night Opening Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB 4pm - 8.30pm www.coam.org.uk 21st Wheathampstead 10K & 2k Family Fun Run www.wheathampstead10k.co.uk 23rd Talk: My Dream Job at the BBC Natural History Unit by Mike Salisbury OBE, Harpenden Local History Society Meeting, Harpenden Public Halls, 8pm 27th Herts County Show www.hertsshow.com 27th & 28th Duxford Air Festival www.iwm.org.uk 29th May - 2nd June Make Do & Mend May Half-Term RAF Museum London, NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk

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Index of Businesses

Accountants Hicks

39

Aerial Installations & Repairs Concorde Aerials 12 Art Classes Start Art!

35

Beauty The Cove Spa Lavender & Stone

18 19

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

14

Bicycle Shop CTH Cycles

15

Blinds / Shutters Harpenden Blinds Hepburn Interiors

37 37

Building Services Brockhall Building Services Open Plan Solutions

12 11

Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop

41

Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services

41

Charity The Harpenden Trust Salvation Army Spring Fair

39 44

Chiropodist Kathy Witchard

17

Cleaning Domestique Merrivac Time For You Domestic Cleaning Computer Repairs Ken Hodson Conservatory Roof Solutions Nu-Look Dance & Drama Penny Waterman School of Dance Stagecoach

18 20 21 42 9

31 31

Oven Cleaning Joe Oven Cleaner

20

Electrician ACR Electrical Ltd & ACR Build

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators Gary Rackley 10 M & M Decorators

33 33 33

Fencing Verulam Fencing

Plasterer 28 A. Merson Plastering

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Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

13

Finance AMR Financial Management 39 Furniture & Homeware Zoohause Ltd

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

13 & 47

37 Property Maintenance The 50plus Garden Centres / Nurseries Bridge Valley Nursery 3 Recruitment Burston Garden Centre 2 Open Hairdressing Townsend Nursery 29 Roofing GJ Smith Roofing Gardening / Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd 23 Saxophone Teacher Garden Life Landscapes 29 Isaac Garden’s Revival 2 Security Greenshouse & Gardens 28 Maximum Security John Brodie Gardens 22 Slimming Vanessa Blain Garden Design 23 LighterLife Stairlifts 13 Age UK Stairlifts

Gas Heating Engineer Heatfix Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice

16

Insurance NFU Mutual

5

Kindergarten / Nursery Artisans Redbourn House Day Nursery Lawn Maintenance Lawnscience

30 30

Advertise in the NOW Magazines for as little as £29.41 per month

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Window Cleaner Harpenden Window Cleaning

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Windows & Doors Cloudy2Clear Back Cover Kings Windows 8 Sash Restorations Ltd 8

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We have made every effort to ensure that any material published in harpenden NOW is correct and can accept no liability for any errors or delays in publication or distribution, harpenden NOW accepts no responsibility for its advertisers.

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Loft Ladders Home Counties Loft Ladders

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Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd

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Locksmith Lock Around the Clock

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To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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