harpenden NOW Dec 14

harpenden December

2014

NOW promoting local businesses organisations and events since 2006

choose local first

NOW for a Panto Get Your Skates On NOW Where’s Santa Festive Music

The Christmas Truce NOW at the Cathedral NOW for a Walk or Two

What’s on and lots more

read ‘the NOW magazines’ monthly

Christmas Trees & Handmade Wreaths Logs, Kindling, Gas & Coal

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Welcome to December

NOW for a Panto A big thank you to all who have advertised in and contributed to ‘the NOW magazines’ during 2014, and not forgetting our loyal readers.

Have a browse through the magazine, there’s so many fun festive events happening from Ice Skating and visits to Santa to Pantos and Festive Music, there’s definitely something for everyone.

We’d like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year...and don’t forget if you need a local business just pick up ‘harpenden NOW’ or read it every month online. jane & wendy wendy@theNOWmagazines.com www.theNOWmagazines.com

rtise call To adve 13 / 291 3 8 8 07983 5 line Dead 8th Dec for Jan:

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It’s behind you!

Get Your Skates On

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ice skating for everyone

NOW Where’s Santa 14 ho, ho ho

NOW for some Festive Music 16 carol singing, choirs and more

Charity at Christmas 22 get involved this festive season

NOW it’s Christmas 24 all things festive

The Christmas Truce 26 Christmas Eve 1914

NOW for a Christmas Read 28 Christmas all wrapped up

NOW at the Cathedral 32 carols, tours & services

NOW for a Walk or Two 36 walk off those Christmas pounds

What’s on in December 42 & January 44 Index of Businesses accountants to windows & doors

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NOW for a Panto Peter Pan 5th Dec - 11th Jan Milton Keynes Theatre This year’s pantomime will be a magical delight for all ages with Bradley Walsh back as Smee, Captain Hook’s hapless first mate.

Joining him on the decks of the Jolly Roger will be Street Dance sensations Flawless as a group of pop-locking, hip-hopping pirates. Get ready with your loudest boo and hiss, for this year’s Captain Hook, David Bedella (Rocky Horror Show)....there will definitely be some fun for those big kids who never grew up! www.atgtickets.com

Jack and the Beanstalk 5th Dec - 4th Jan The Alban Arena, St Albans With a top-quality West End cast, stunning sets, comedy, audience participation and breath-taking special effects (there’s even a break-dancing pantomime cow!)

Starring Steve McFadden as the evil Fleshcreep, CBeebies’ Rebecca Keatley as Fairy Sugarsnap, ‘Morecambe’ star Bob Golding as Dame Trott and St Albans’ favourite Princess, Jemma Carlisle. www.alban-arena.co.uk

Cinderella 6th - 31st Dec The Radlett Centre A sparkling traditional pantomime with fabulous live music, hilarious comedy, dazzling costumes and lots of audience participation. Join in the fun, songs and laughter, and follow Cinderella's magical story with her lovable friend Buttons, her nasty ugly sisters, a handsome prince, a pumpkin, a glass slipper, mice...and, of course, a friendly Fairy Godmother, a perfect Christmas treat for all the family! www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs 12th - 22nd Dec Harpenden Public Halls Starring Go!Go!Go!'s Steve Leeds (Nick Jr), Tony Howes (Midsomer Murders) and local singing sensation Sophie Massie. Join in with the audience participation! Packed with great singing and dancing, fabulous scenery and beautiful costumes, a fantastic live band, and the corniest of jokes, the perfect way to start Christmas! Hi ho hi ho, it’s off to the panto we go…..! www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

Sleeping Beauty 20th Dec - 3rd Jan Hawthorne Theatre, Welwyn Garden City Written and directed by Olivier Award-Winner, Guy Masterson, this family show features local favourites Helen Crosse and Mike Totton as Carabosse and Welwyn Willy, and joining us this year is sensational Nick Collett as Dame Kitty La Quiche. www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

Snow White 22nd - 25th Jan Harpenden Public Halls It’s off to work we go! The Hurst Children’s Theatre Group are back with their traditional panto. As usual, they’ll have their own spin on the old yarn, not least Princess Ana from Frozen who keeps turning up in the wrong story! Harpenden’s finest 14-17 year olds are playing the main roles, the boisterous cast of 100 younger children will knock your socks off with their unrivalled singing. Old vaudeville songs, modern songs, some rock n roll and of course an audience singalong, will have you toe-tapping all the way home with a smile on your face. www.hurstchildrenstheatregroup.co.uk

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Get Your Skates On Westfield London Ice Rink up to 3rd Jan Westfield Shopping Centre, Shepherds Bush Family entertainment, themed sessions, DJs and live performances. Children can hire penguin and seal-shaped stabilisers to keep them upright. Sessions are an hour long with 40 minutes on the ice. www.uk.westfield.com/london

Eyeskate up to 4th Jan EDF Energy London Eye Situated in Jubilee Gardens, in the shadow of the London Eye. Sessions last 45 minutes. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. Booking recommended. www.londoneye.com

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink up to 4th Jan Henry VIII's sixteenth-century pad makes a picturesque backdrop especially when lit up after dark.

Non confident skaters can hire an ice guide, and lessons can be booked in advance. www.hamptoncourticerink.com

Ice Skating at Wembley Park

up to 4th Jan Wembley Stadium's iconic arch will be glittering away above this new outdoor ice rink. A German Christmas market will also pop up for the festive season, and every skater gets a free hot chocolate after their session. www.iceskatingatwembleypark.co.uk

Natural History Museum Ice Rink

up to 4th Jan The beautiful backdrop of Alfred Waterhouse's buildings, trees dripping in fairy lights and a majestic Christmas tree in the middle of the ice makes for a most enchanting place. The 1,000m square rink adjoins a smaller one for children needing a gentler space to practice in. A café bar overlooks the ice with live music on Thursdays and there’s a fairground carousel for the children. www.nhm.ac.uk

Ice Skating at Van Hage up to 5th Jan For the first time the ice rink will be covered by a ‘clear skies cover’ allowing you to skate in all weathers! It will be surrounded by a fully heated marquee with a café, comfortable seating and a skate-exchange desk with top-quality skates of all sizes. www.vanhage.co.uk

Skating at Somerset House up to 11th Jan The grand eighteenth-century courtyard is a stunning location for this 900-metre-square outdoor rink.

The Fortnum's Lodge will offer champagne and afternoon tea, there will ‘Club Nights’ and ‘Glad Tidings’ Tuesdays offering a merry evening of traditional Christmas entertainment and treats. www.somersethouse.org.uk

Canary Wharf Ice Rink up to 27th Feb Canada Square Park An iced path allows skaters to dash off from the main rink and glide below sparkling trees around the square's Big Blue' sculpture designed by Ron Arad. Barbecue food, wintry cocktails, craft beer and hot chocolate are all available. www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

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St Albans Christmas Market 27th November - 21st December Sun - Weds 11am - 6pm Thurs - Sat 11am - 8pm Following the success of last years fantastic first Christmas Market, this years promises even better, with up to 60 traditional wooden chalets selling high quality gifts and products. There’ll be a wide selection of traders bringing you the best of British-made and international wares. Focusing on the quirky, handmade, unique and individual, you should find something for everyone on your list, from pocket-money toys and stocking fillers to beautiful statement pieces for the home.

The market is set in and around the beautiful Vintry Garden, adjacent to the Cathedral.

Entertainers, twinkly lights and plenty of Christmas cheer will add to the festive atmosphere.

Why not come along and browse the stalls while enjoying a mug of hot mulled wine. www.stalbanscathedral.org

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NOW Where’s Santa

Santa Spectacular at Willows Farm 26th Nov - 24th Dec Visit Santa in his grotto and receive a golden key to his toy shop to choose a gift. Join in with the nativity story, hop on the festive wood ride and write a letter to Santa in the Elves House and receive a reply! Have fun on the Magical Synthetic Ice Rink, festive funfair rides, indoor play and reindeer hunt with prizes for all. www.willowsactivityfarm.com Christmas at Gulliver's 29th Nov - 23rd Dec from £9.95 Christmas rides, shows and attractions including the popular Elf School. Don't miss the chance to become an honorary elf or visit Mrs Christmas' kitchen to cook up some delicious treats. www.gulliversfun.co.uk A-maze-ing Christmas Event Capel Manor Gardens 6th - 7th Dec 10am - 4pm Adult £6.50, concs £5.50, child £3.50 Go on a magical journey around the enchanted Christmas maze and gardens, searching for fairies, reindeer, lost presents and Santa. Visit the children’s zone for crafts, magic shows, face painting and tractor rides. Take a guided illuminated moonlight walk and see the gardens at their most striking or visit the shopping village for unusual Christmas presents and treats. www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk Santa Specials Leighton Buzzard Railway 6th, 7th, 10th, 13th 14th, 17th, 20th & 21st Dec Adult £8, child £8.50 Enjoy a ride in a festive steam train, on a railway that is nearly 100 years old. Walk through the Magic Tunnel to receive your present from Santa.

Enjoy hot punch and mince-pies afterwards.

New Year Cheer 29th & 30th Dec, adult £6.50, child £3.50 www.buzzrail.co.uk

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Meet Father Christmas Dunstable Downs 7th, 14th & 21st Dec Help Father Christmas' elves make magic reindeer food and then meet the man himself! Don't forget to think of what you would like to ask for this year!

11am -3pm, child £5 (includes gift and reindeer food) www.nationaltrust.org.uk Sunday Lunch with Santa Knebworth House 7th, 14th & 21st Dec 12.30 - 3.30pm Enjoy a two-course festive lunch in the Cobbold Barn with a gift from Santa for each child.

Booking essential, adult £24, child £10 www.knebworthhouse.com Essendon Country Club 10th Dec A unique event combining golf and your golfing knowledge! Enter online as teams of 4 or individuals. £10 www.essendoncc.co.uk Visit Father Christmas Ashridge Estate 13th - 21st Dec A visit to Father Christmas, a Christmas craft making session and a present.

Adult £2.50 (includes a glass of warm spiced apple juice), child £6. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Farm-tastic Santa at Lee Valley 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd Dec See Santa in his grotto and meet his reindeer, visit the farm and hold some of the smaller animals.

Booking essential. Enjoy soft indoor play and fun Christmas crafts! www.visitleevalley.org.uk The Snow Centre Hemel Hempstead, 0844 770 7227 Every weekend until Christmas & 20th, 23rd & 24th Dec Step on the Santa Express departing every half an hour to visit Santa in his igloo at the top of the slope!

Play in the snow and receive a gift before returning on the train. £10 www.thesnowcentre.com Lunch with Father Christmas Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, Harpenden

01727 298007

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NOW for some Festive Music Bach’s Christmas Oratorio Sat 6th December 7.30pm High Street Methodist Church Amici Voices, a chamber choir of 8 talented young singers will be joined by Amici Baroque Players; 20 of the UK’s finest period instrumentalists, to recreate Bach’s festive masterpiece as it might have been heard in his day. The Christmas Oratorio is a series of six cantatas each intended for performance on one of the major feast days between Christmas and Epiphany. The parts are colourfully orchestrated and describe the birth of Jesus, the annunciation and adoration of the shepherds, the naming of Jesus, and the journey of the Magi. adult £15, child £5 01582 462024 Sun 7th December 4pm Family Carols 7pm Carols by Candlelight Harpenden Public Halls 01582 713031

Tues 16th December 7.30pm High Street Methodist Church This year, in commemoration of the First World War Centenary, The Harpenden Choral Society present their Christmas concert with a difference to celebrate the message of peace on Earth, and honour the sacrifices of those who fought to preserve it. With carols for choir and audience from England, Scotland, Ireland and Germany, and readings of accounts from eyewitnesses of the 1914 Christmas Truce.

Adult £10, concs £3.

Retiring collection for Help for Heroes. www.harpendenchoralsociety.ticketsource.co.uk.

01582 419379

Christmas Carol Charity Concert

FestiveLea

Carols by Candlelight

Sat 13th December 3pm High Street Methodist Church Music Makers Choir with Wood End School Choir, proceeds to Harpenden Trust.

Adult £12, concs £10, students £5 07834 484989

A Venetian Christmas Mon 15th December 8pm St Johns Church, Harpenden The Hardynge Choir perform a programme of carols, Christmas music and festive readings for choir and audience. The theme for this year’s concert is ‘a flavour of Venice’.

Adult £12, child £6 Tickets include seasonal refreshments 0845 4751664

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A Celebration of the Christmas Truce

Tues 23rd December 7.30pm Harpenden Public Halls Last year's concert was a roof-raising sell-out, with £700 raised for local charities.

This year's concert features traditional Christmas favourites as well as more unusual Christmas music, extracts from Britten's Ceremony of Carols and Jazz. The concert promises lots of singalong opportunities, which can be enjoyed with mulled wine and mince pies, included in ticket prices.

This year The Lea Singers have lived through a cancer scare with one of their dearest and most longstanding choir members.

So it seems right for them to support Rennie Grove Hospice Care at this year's concert.

Come and enjoy an evening of uplifting music, just in time for Christmas.

Adult £15, concs £5 www.leasingers.co.uk

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NOW for a Christmas Treat Panforte de Siena A traditional Italian Christmas treat packed with nuts, figs, honey and warming spices. It can be made a couple of weeks before Christmas just wrap well in greaseproof paper and store in an airtight container.

150g whole blanched almonds 125g pistachio nuts 175g dried figs, chopped Grated zest of 1 orange 75g plain flour 2 tbsp cocoa powder

2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground cloves 115g caster sugar 175g runny honey Icing sugar, for dusting

You can replace the fruits and nuts with chopped candied peel, dried apricots or glace pineapple and toasted hazelnuts.

Preheat the oven to 150°C/130°C fan/gas 2. Grease a deep 18cm square tin and line the base with baking parchment. Toast the almonds under a medium grill until just golden then roughly chop.

Mix in a bowl with the pistachios, figs and orange zest, sift over the flour and cocoa powder, stir well then add the cinnamon and ground cloves.

Put the caster sugar and honey in a heavy-based pan and heat gently until the sugar dissolves.

Bring to the boil and let the syrup bubble gently for about 5 minutes, without stirring the mixture, until it begins to thicken. Remove the pan from the heat and quickly add the nut and flour mixture stirring well. Spoon into the prepared tin and smooth the surface using the back of a damp spoon.

Bake for about 1 hour then remove from the oven and leave in the tin until completely cold.

Remove from the tin, peel off the lining paper, dust thickly with icing sugar and cut into squares.

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NOW at Rye Meads Christmas Party 13th Dec 11am - 1pm Join us on a winter wonderland walk, followed by party time, with games, Christmas craft activities and more.

Simon’s Wildlife Walk 20th Dec 2 - 3pm An informal tour taking in birds, insects, plants and more! Just turn up, meet in the Visitor Centre, free.

Natural Christmas Crafts 20th & 21st Dec 2 - 4pm Drop in and make festive decorations and presents. £4 Meet Father Christmas 20th & 21st Dec 2 - 4pm Come along for a winter wander round the reserve and visit Santa in his grotto. £4, present included.

Wildlife Watches 13th & 14th Dec 10 -12 noon 27th Dec 2 - 4pm Join the experts in the hides to spot and identify birds and other wildlife.

Test their knowledge with any questions, free just turn up.

Rye Winter Walk 2nd Jan 11 - 3pm A 7/8 mile walk of the local area to shake off Christmas excess and start the January bird lists!

Dogs welcome. Bring lunch. £3 When are we open 9am - 5pm or dusk every day closed Christmas and Boxing Day Where are we Rye Meads Nature Reserve Stanstead Abbotts, Herts SG12 8JS 01992 708383 rspb.org.uk

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Wallace & Gromit’s BIG Bake 1st - 7th December Roll out your rolling pins, whip out your whisks and preheat your ovens to help raise some dough for children’s hospitals and hospices.

The BIG Bake supported by Homepride Flour, aims to get the great British public baking to raise money for Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity. The charity works with hospitals and hospices supporting projects such as family accommodation, art, music and play therapy, sibling support and state of the art medical equipment. Whether you bake cupcakes or cheesecakes, pies or pastries, brownies or bloomers, or your own unique showstopper, rise to the occasion and register to support this cracking fundraising event.

This is an event for everyone, you can take part at work, school, with friends and family or even within your local community Don’t forget to enter the Cracking Bakers competition to be in with a chance to win some fantastic prizes!

Charity Christmas Card Shop Open until 16th December Mon - Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm Sat 9.30am-3.30pm Harpenden United Reformed Church Vaughan Road Harpenden www.cardsforcharity.co.uk

Sponsored SleepOut Friday 5th December Come and spend a night sleeping out at St Albans Abbey from 9pm - 7am and raise awareness of homelessness and raise funds for ten local charities dedicated to helping homeless people.

Since the Sleepout began it has raised more than £500,000, so why not get involved this year and help raise even more money for this very good cause this year. www.abbeysleepout.org

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NOW it’s Christmas

Santa Claus and t Christmas Adven

St Albans Mummers Take on the Dragon

Stockwood Christmas Fair 7th December A traditional Christmas craft fair and yuletide celebration.

Craft Activities Help create a giant Christmas tree from recycled materials Cooking Decorate a gingerbread man with lots of yummy sweets and icing Simon The Snowman Look out for Simon who loves to chat and have his photo taken so make sure you stop to say hello Shambles Big Band 17 piece Big Band, 11am & 1pm Storytime Enjoy classic and contemporary Christmas tales and re-live stories old and new Main Stage Live entertainment from CBBC’s JezO The Slammer with his high energy comedy and magic.

Ride in a Giant Bauble Pretend you’re in a giant bauble in our icy lake! Don’t worry, you won’t get wet! Adults and children can ride, only 1 person per ball.

Craft and Gift Stalls Santa’s Grotto Snow Zone - Come and play in the snow outside the Discovery Halls.

Wrap up warm – its cold outside!

Stockwood Discovery Centre

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Boxing Day St Albans Mummers started in 1967, performing a traditional play from Hertfordshire, in which St George fights a dragon, a giant and a Turkish Knight. The play is performed in five venues in St Albans city centre. Mumming Plays are seasonal folk plays performed by groups of actors known as mummers, a term that dates to the medieval times. Trevor Adams, from St Albans Mummers, said: “Our play has become a firm part of Christmas in St Albans. The play is fun, both for the audiences and players and we welcome anyone who would like to try their hand.”

The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmassness 14th December A fantastic new family show celebrating everything Christmassy, from fir trees, fairy lights, stockings and sleigh bells to cookies, crackers, presents and puddings!

Meet a snowman who lives in the fridge, try and spot some naughty elves, hear the tale of the first Christmas Tree, play hunt the brussel sprout and endure the world's worst Christmas jumper.

Craft workshops: 10am, 12 noon, 1pm, 3pm ages 5+ £4, full £10, concs £8 The Weston Auditorium, University of Hertfordshire, de Havilland Campus, Hatfield,

Watford Colosseum 29th November 24th December The adventure takes plac Santa’s HQ in the North P The Reindeer Sat Nav is programmed, the toys are high on the sleigh and Sa ready to go when sudden chaos strikes! Rudolph is missing and the Elves are no good. Will Santa ever the presents to all the boy girls?! This new magical adventure filled with song nursery rhymes and storie promises to be the Christm treat you won’t want to mi A truly unforgettable expe which includes the magica moment when snowflakes over the audience – a guaranteed white Christm every show! Children can Santa after the show and receive a special present.

Now Where's Santa?

‘NORAD Tracks Santa’ is an annual Christmas programme, which was set up in 1955 by the North American Aerospace Defense Command. Every year on Christmas Eve, "NORAD Tracks Santa" tracks Santa Claus as he leaves the North Pole and delivers presents to children around the world. Visit the website from 1st December to start the official countdown to Santa’s launch www.noradsanta.org

Santa Claus and the Christmas Adventure Watford Colosseum 29th November 24th December The adventure takes place at Santa’s HQ in the North Pole.

The Reindeer Sat Nav is programmed, the toys are piled high on the sleigh and Santa is ready to go when suddenly… chaos strikes! Rudolph is missing and the Elves are up to no good. Will Santa ever deliver the presents to all the boys and girls?! This new magical adventure filled with songs, nursery rhymes and stories promises to be the Christmas treat you won’t want to miss.

A truly unforgettable experience which includes the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience – a guaranteed white Christmas at every show! Children can meet Santa after the show and receive a special present.

Now Where's Santa?

‘NORAD Tracks Santa’ is an annual Christmas programme, which was set up in 1955 by the North American Aerospace Defense Command. Every year on Christmas Eve, "NORAD Tracks Santa" tracks Santa Claus as he leaves the North Pole and delivers presents to children around the world. Visit the website from 1st December to start the official countdown to Santa’s launch www.noradsanta.org

Running for a Good Claus 7th December The Jingle Bell Jog and Reindeer Run return with hundreds of local residents preparing to fill the streets of St Albans dressed as Santas and reindeer.

For the past seven years, the event has raised muchneeded sponsorship for Rennie Grove Hospice Care, a charity offering support to patients with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses across Herts and Bucks. Last year, 400 people took part and raised £10,000, enough to fund 500 hours of nursing care.

The 1.5km Reindeer Run starts at 11am and is perfect for younger children to run, walk or toddle! It costs £10 which includes reindeer antlers, a flashing nose and a medal at the finish line.

The 5km Jingle Bell Jog, for ages 10+ starts at 11.30am and sees participants racing around St Albans in Santa suits complete with beards, which are included in the £17 entry fee along with a medal.

Participants meet at Waterend Barn, St Albans where there will be guest appearances by stars from the Alban Arena pantomime and music from Heart Radio DJs. To register visit www.renniegrove.org/jinglebelljog or call 01442 820740

HO, HO, HO Santas Wanted!

14th December Get into the festive spirit and take part in The Hospice of St Francis Santa Dash at 10am at Riverside, Hemel Hempstead.

The annual Santa dash sees hundreds of adults and children wearing Santa suits running the 2.5 mile course. It costs £15 to register for adults and £5 for children or the whole family (including the dog!) for £35. Santa outfits are included and participants are asked to raise as much as they can in sponsorship to help the Hospice raise the £4.7 million it needs annually to fund its care for patients with serious illness in Herts and Bucks. 25% of patients come from Harpenden and St Albans.

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German soldiers of the 134th Saxon Regiment and British soldiers of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment meet in no-man's land, 26th December

was less damaged by shell fire.

Williamson recalled the Germans singing Silent

The Christmas Truce

by Alison Runham Christmas Eve 1914. The Western Front. Weeks of rain have ended and mud is becoming ice.

Despite calls for a Christmas ceasefire, fighting has continued throughout December, although today it seems half-hearted in many places.

Staff Sergeant Clement Barker is in his trench with his comrades. Across No Man’s Land, the Germans are decorating tiny trees sent from home with candles as they sing Stille Nacht (Silent Night). “The trenches were a blaze of Christmas trees,” one Tommy recalled, “and our sentries were regaled for hours with traditional Christmas songs.” In some places, English troops decide that they “ought to retaliate in some way.” “So we sang The First Noël... they all began clapping; and then they struck up another favourite of theirs, O Tannenbaum.”

At Barker’s trench, a German soldier appears.

“He said that if (we) did not fire, they wouldn’t in the morning,” Barker wrote later. Next morning, Barker’s men cautiously venture out to retrieve and bury their dead. No shots are fired. Soon they’re shaking hands with the Germans and exchanging gifts, and then “a football is kicked out of our trenches, and Germans and English play football.”

Henry Williamson, who later wrote Tarka the Otter, also recalled football matches, but behind German lines; if British and German troops played together, he made no mention of it.

However, despite the myths surrounding Truce matches between both sides, some are welldocumented in letters. Two soldiers of the 6th Cheshires described a huge, free-for-all match in Wulverghem, Belgium, where No Man's Land

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Night, too, before inviting the English closer. His unit suspected a trap. “We crept out... expecting any moment to fall flat with the machine guns opening up. And nothing happened.” Both sides were soon exchanging gifts and greetings, and similar scenes were occurring at many points along the Front. Cigarettes, rations, uniform buttons and even addresses were exchanged.

One English trench received a German chocolate cake, together with a ceasefire request and an invitation to an impromptu concert. “Just think,” wrote one soldier to his family, “while you were eating turkey I was talking and shaking hands with the very men I had been trying to kill a few hours before!”

The truce at Williamson’s position held for four days before orders arrived to end fraternisation, while the Germans were warned to expect visits from senior officers; they sent a message across, explaining that they would have to fire their machine guns, but would fire high to avoid hitting anyone.

For Barker, peace lasted a little longer too.

“Night came and still no shots. Boxing day the same, and has remained so up to now,” he wrote a few days later. But gradually fighting resumed.

Captain J.C. Dunn’s account of resuming hostilities is poignant: “I fired three shots in the air and put up a flag with "Merry Christmas" on it, and I climbed on the parapet...[the Germans] put up a sheet with "Thank you" on it, and the German Captain appeared... We both bowed and saluted... he fired two shots in the air, and the War was on again.”

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NOW for a Christmas Read

We’ve got Christmas all wrapped up this year, with a choice of books designed to cover every aspect of the holiday. If all else fails there’s always the option of packing it all in and doing a runner…and we’ve thought of that as well!

The Tree: ‘The Giving Tree’

by Shel Silverstein What better kind of spruce this festive season than ‘The Giving Tree’. Loved by children and adults alike, this is a story about a little boy who grows up under the branches of a tree. You're bound to shed a tear or two when you read it. It’s such a simple and touching story about our capacity to love and it’s perfect for some fireside snuggling up with someone special this Christmas.

The Gift: ‘The Gift’ by Cecelia Ahern If you ever thought there weren’t enough hours in the day then meet Lou Suffern, a man who constantly needs to be in two places at once and is struggling to keep up. He finds it impossible to really ‘be’ in the present, whether it’s at work or at home with his family. One day he meets a homeless man called Gabe and, taking pity on him, sorts him out with a job in the post room. But there’s something not quite right about Gabe. He always appears to be

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in more than one place at once. It’s a bit ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ for modern times, and goes to prove that as we suspected, time really could be the greatest gift of all.

The Food: ‘Great British Bake Off: Christmas’

by Lizzie Kamenetzky Christmas simply can’t go wrong with Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry helping you along your merry way. There are master class recipes as well as contributions from all four previous winners and other memorable contestants. It’s packed with plenty of inspiration without causing you too much perspiration while slaving over a hot stove. It could be a present to yourself…or whoever you’ve talked into doing the cooking this year!

The Weather: ‘Let it Snow’

by John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle Here are three touching and romantic stories that all stem from one incident, as a young girl decides to ditch the stranded train she was travelling on and heads out into the blizzard. The tales then take place over the following few days as the residents of Gracetown struggle to cope with the Christmas Eve storm.

Written by some of today’s best -selling authors they are like three perfectly wrapped little

stocking fillers.

The Family: ‘A Proper Family Christmas’

by Chrissie Manby Whenever someone tells you this is what they want, they mean the nostalgic Christmas card, cookie cutter image. They don’t mean the arguments, tears and recriminations that can go hand in hand with the festive season. This is the story of two clashing families, brought together by the need to help the Buchanan’s seriously ill daughter, Izzy. The matriarch, Annabel, was adopted and so needs to find her own biological parents to see if Izzy can be saved. It sounds like a tearjerker but it’s a warm and fuzzy one for Christmas.

The Escape Plan: ‘Eat, Pray, Love’

by Elizabeth Gilbert If all else fails and you really can’t cope with your in-laws, or even your husband for any amount of time past Boxing Day, then why not just escape from it all? At 3am, Elizabeth’s seemingly perfect life is keeping her up and making her depressed. So, she ups sticks and heads off in pursuit of happiness. Her travels take her to Italy, India and then on to Bali, finding food for her soul and her belly along the way. It’s the perfect antidote to what can

The perfect shop to buy that special Christmas party dress Special Occasion Wear Elegant Evening Gowns One off Designs Prom & Ball Dresses Playful Party Dresses Wedding Attire Hat Hire Accessories Handbags Available On-line Hair & Make-up Advice Personal Service Dresses ÂŁ20 - ÂŁ90

Seymour Styles 19 Seymour Road St Albans AL3 5HN by appointment Mon - Fri 4pm - late Sat 11am - late 07443 562313 01727 839658 sharon@seymourstyles.co.uk or shop on-line www.seymourstyles.co.uk

Have you ever considered writing your life story for your family and close friends?

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For more information and a free introductory meeting contact Sally Gray on 01582 861407 / biographies@resource24.net www.boundbiographies.com

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NOW at the Cathedral Come and join us to celebrate this special time.

Services and Carol Concerts suitable for young children are marked with a star *.

Advent Procession 30th November 6.30pm Sung by the Cathedral Choir. A beautiful candlelit service of readings and music, marking the start of Advent.

Willow Foundation Carol Concert 2nd December 7.30pm An evening of carols and readings featuring the Hertfordshire Chorus. The Willow Foundation will be joined by Life Presidents Bob and Megs Wilson. Adult £13.50, child £5 Christmas Tower Tours 3rd Dec: 12.30pm & 2pm 6th Dec: 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm 10th Dec: 12.30pm & 2pm This spectacular tour takes you to the top of the Norman Bell Tower via the north transept gallery, the ringing and bell chambers and onto the roof of the tower. Book early to avoid disappointment, restrictions apply, see website for details. £8 Mosaic Chamber Choir 6th December 7.30pm Seasonal music in the Lady Chapel Adult £15, child £10 Christingle Service* 7th December 3pm Children and adults alike love this enjoyable service, which ends in candlelight.

St Albans Bach Choir Christmas Carols 13th December Christmas music and readings.

Family Concert, 3pm: adult £5, child £1 Carol Concert, 7pm: adult £10, concs £5

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Carols on the Hour* 20th December On the hour, every hour from 11am to 4pm Come and enjoy a very special Cathedral event, Just 30 minutes, enough time to sing some uplifting carols with the Cathedral choirs and get a real taste of Christmas. No tickets required.

Christmas Eve Crib Service* 3pm Lively carol service intended mainly for young families, where children can also visit the crib.

Choral Evensong for Christmas 5.30pm A beautiful, quiet and reflective service sung by the Abbey Girls Choir, marking the end of Advent and the beginning of Christmas. Not suitable for very young children.

Midnight Mass 11.30pm (doors open 10.50pm) The first celebration of Christmas, with carols and the glorious singing of the Cathedral Choir.

Christmas Day Eucharist with Carols 8am Parish Eucharist for Christmas Day* 9.30am Christmas service for all ages with crèche and children's activities.

Matins for Christmas Day 11.15am A service sung by the Cathedral Choir.

Eucharist 12.30pm A quiet service without music following Matins.

Following the 12.30 service the Cathedral will be closed for the rest of Christmas Day, but is open daily throughout the rest of the Christmas period.

Boxing Day Eucharist 9am & 12pm Carols on Boxing Day 4pm Drop in if you're out for a walk and enjoy this short and informal carol service.

andrew@arlandscapes.co.uk

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Jim Buttress, former royal gardener and judge of BBC TV's 'The Big Allotment Challenge' is the guest speaker at the Harpenden Gardening Society's meeting on Tuesday 2nd December at 7.45pm. Jim is one of the UK's leading gardening experts. He was superintendent of the Royal Parks for 25 years and his clients included Her Majesty the Queen and his old friend the Queen Mother. Jim's love of gardening began when, having been excluded from class, the naughty youngster was set to work in the school's walled garden. There's nothing Jim doesn't know about planting and growing. His dedication has seen him judging competitions all over the world and sharing his knowledge with the public is his greatest passion.

At any one time only 63 people in the world hold the Victoria Medal of Honour, the highest accolade in horticulture. Jim is one of them. He was also head judge for 'Britain in Bloom' for 25 years, where he was known as 'Judge Dread'.

Roundwood Park School, Harpenden AL5 3AY, Members free, guests ÂŁ3 www.harpendengardeningsociety.org

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Great Garden Gifts For new gardeners, basic tools are always well received, especially good quality, sturdy ones, so think fork, spade, hoe or rake, difficult to wrap but worth the effort.

A heated propagator makes a fantastic gift. With tomatoes, peppers, aubergines and many of the fancier ornamentals needing to be sown soon, it’ll be a gift put to use straight away. Gardening gloves are always handy! From the gauntlet style for thorny jobs to those with gripping pads or leather toughened strips across the knuckles.

A peanut bird feeder, nest box or bird table will bring interest and attract birds to the garden.

For those less inclined to work in the garden, why not give them a garden lounger or hammock. Alternatively give them a personal gift by planting a container with a selection of their favourite plants, including some bulbs to bring extra delight next year.

Finally, houseplants such as poinsettias, cyclamen, indoor azaleas and jasmines are perfect for some bright colour indoors at this time of year.

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NOW for a walk or two Christmas Burn off Walk Dunstable Downs 26th December 11am £2 Enjoy the spectacular views and fresh air as you walk off those extra calories with the countryside team on a guided walk over the Downs.

Ashridge Christmas Walk 27th December 10am adult £7, child £6 Enjoy a scenic post-Christmas walk at this magical time of year followed by mulled wine and mince pies.

New Year's Resolution Walk Dunstable Downs 1st January 11am £2 Was your New Year's resolution to get outdoors more?

Exercise more? Get fitter? Take the time to enjoy nature?

If so then enjoy a breath of fresh air on this 1.5 hour walk led by one of the rangers.

Booking essential, dogs on leads welcome. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Hertfordshire Health Walks Enjoy the countryside and local green spaces with the free Hertfordshire Health Walks led by qualified volunteer leaders

Highfield Park Charters Health Club Car Park Mondays 9.30am Hill End Lane, opposite Spar AL4 0DB Wheathampstead Tuesdays 10.30am Meet at the public car park behind The Bull, East Lane AL4 8BL

Highfield Park Charters Health Club Car Park Tuesdays 1.30pm Hill End Lane, opposite Spar AL4 0DB

Hatching Green Thursdays 10.30am (except 25th Dec) Redbourn Lane, Harpenden AL5 2JP on road parking only Greenwood Park Fridays 2pm Meet outside Greenwood Park Community Centre, Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green AL2 3HW Batford & The River Lea 6th Dec 2pm Meet in Marquis Lane Car Park, Marquis Lane AL5 5AA Heartwood Forest 21st Dec 10.30am Meet in Heartwood Forest car park, Sandridge AL3 6JB The walks cater for all abilities and are graded from easy to challenging. Further explanation is available on the website. You don’t need special equipment, just suitable shoes, waterproofs and a drink. www.hertfordshirehealthwalks.org

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Make a Victorian Chimney Sweep Tree Decoration This idea from Germany, is a jolly little black chimney sweep, with his broom held high in the air. He wears a paper hat and carries a bag filled with goodies. He is made entirely of prunes, one for the head, two for the body, one for each arm, one for each hand, two for each leg, and one for each foot.

The prunes are strung together with a coarse needle and thread. If, when made, he wont sit up, give him a backbone by running a thin stick through the back of his head and body. Give him a paper hat shaped like a cone, and a paper face, then tie a bag across his shoulders, fasten at the side with a safety pin and fill the bag with sweets. The broom can be made from a wooden toothpick with a bunch of dried grass or straw tied on one end. Then sit him in the branches of the Christmas tree for all to see.

(From: "Christmas Tree Decorations, Good to Eat & Good to Look Upon". The Delineator

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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

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What’s on in December 42

26th Nov - 24th Dec NOW Where’s Santa see page 14 27th Nov - 21st Dec St Albans Christmas Market see page 8 29th Nov - 24th Dec Santa Claus & The Christmas Adventure see page 25 30th Nov - 26th Dec NOW at the Cathedral see page 32 2nd Talk: The Central Royal Parks see page 34 Christmas Magic and Sparkle Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club 2pm, visitors welcome 3rd Hal Cruttenden Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, 8pm, £17 (16+) 4th Town Mayor’s Christmas Musical Dinner Alwickbury Park Golf Club, 01582 463662, 7.30pm, £28 Songs From My Suitcase Abbey Theatre Westminster Lodge, St Albans, 01727 857861, Juliet Lawson plays original material from jazz to folk to blues, 8pm Film: A Christmas Carol Harpenden Public Halls www.harpendenfilmsociety.co.uk 5th Sponsored SleepOut see page 22 5th Dec - 25th Jan NOW for a Panto see page 4 6th Bach Christmas Oratorio see page 16 Nicholas Martin - Theatre Organ Concert St Albans Organ Theatre, Camp Road, St Albans, 03003 65 65 65, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, adult £10, child £5 Hyde & Seek Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans, 0333 666 3366, 8pm, £10 6th Dec - 11th Jan Exhibition: Eastern Approaches Museum of St Albans, 01727 819340 Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm, Sun: 2 - 5pm 6th, 13th, 20th Walk: Christmas Markets meet outside the Old Town Hall, 2pm, adult £4, child £2 www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk 7th Festive Fun Museum of St Albans, 01727 819340, seasonal stories & Christmas crafts, 2pm - 5pm, £2, ages 3 - 11 years Carols by Candlelight see page 16 Stockwood Christmas Fair see page 24 The Jingle Bell Jog & Reindeer Run

see page 25 Christmas Fair Ashridge Visitor Centre, 01442 851227, 10am - 3.30pm 10th Walk: Ghosts & Ghouls meet outside the Old Town Hall, 8pm, adult £4, child £2 Tots Tales Museum of St Albans, 01727 819340, story, craft activity & museum hunt, 11am - 12noon & 1.30pm - 2.30pm, 2 - 4 yrs, £1 12th Christmas Fair YWAM, Highfield Oval, Harpenden, stalls & live music, free 12th & 13th Food of Love at Christmas Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans, 0333 666 3366, seasonally themed jazz from Sinatra & Simone to Fitzgerald, 8pm, £10, £7.50 12th - 22nd Snow White & the Seven Dwafs see page 30 13th Christmas Carol Charity Concert see page 16 13th & 14th Saturnalia Swags Verulamium Museum, 01727 751810, make evergreen garlands with Roman style decorations, free Arts For Herts Markets St Albans Town Hall, Craft Fair & Tea Shop, Sat: 10am - 4pm, Sun: 9.30am - 3.30pm 13th - 27th NOW at Rye Meads see page 20 14th Santa Dash see page 25 St Albans Farmers Market 9am - 2pm The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmassness see page 24 15th A Venetian Christmas see page 16 16th A Celebration of the Christmas Truce see page 16 23rd FestiveLea see page 16 26th St Albans Mummers see page 24 Christmas Burn Off Walk see page 36 27th Ashridge Christmas Walk see page 36 28th Hansel & Gretel Trestle Arts Base, Russet Drive, St Albans, a beautiful rendition of this favourite fairytale, 2pm & 4.30pm, adult £12, concs £10, family £4 Harpenden Farmers Market 10am - 2pm 30th Reminiscence Museum of St Albans, 2pm, free 30th & 31st Winter Holiday Activities Mill Green Museum,

Give the ‘Gift of Confidence’ this Christmas

educational and safe environment. Small class sizes and experienced teaching staff ensure As Christmas draws closer, it’s time to start every child is given the attention they deserve thinking about Christmas gifts. Children’s gift lists and the opportunity to reach their full potential, seem to be getting more and more high tech all while making new friends and having lots of each year and many people are worried that fun. technology could be replacing traditional play.

Stagecoach Harpenden runs classes at Sir John If you are looking for something a little bit Lawes School, Manland Way on Fridays and different for your child, grandchild, niece or Saturdays during term time. School Principal nephew and want to spark their creativity, get them active and develop their imaginations, why Liz Blower says “Stagecoach Harpenden will be showcasing their end-of-term Presentation at the not consider a Stagecoach Gift Voucher? end of the Spring term and after 20 years of Starting at just £25, they will be valid until 31st success, wouldn’t you want your family to be December 2015 and can be redeemed against involved? Join us for our exciting plans for 2015 term fees or a two week trial at the start of term. and think about the gift of confidence and how these vouchers would make a great Stagecoach Theatre Arts is the UK’s largest Christmas gift!” network of part-time performing arts schools for 4 to 18 year olds. With over 600 schools To find out more about your nationwide, Stagecoach teaches children and local Stagecoach school, young people to act, sing and dance in a fun, call Liz on 01525 717567 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/harpenden

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What’s on on in in January January What’s

1st Walk: New Years Resolution see page 36 Walk: A City Revealed Guided meet in front of the Old Town Hall, Market Place, St Albans, visit the well known & lesser known sites of the City, hear about peasants revolting, martyrs, heretics, monasteries & monks, 11am, adult £4, child £2 www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk New Year’s Day Family Concert St Albans Cathedral, St Albans Symphony Orchestra, Rachmaninov, Delius, Mozart & Prokoviev & more, 7pm, adult £8 - £25, students £5, child £1 2nd Rye Winter Walk see page 20 Folk at the Maltings The Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans, 0844 870 0887, 8pm, adult £10, concs £8, child £6 4th Wassail Event Mill Green Museum, Hatfield, traditional Twelfth Night ceremony is re-enacted & promises to banish winter blues, adult £3, child £2 6th -10th Harpenden Gang Show Harpenden Public Halls www.hwgangshow.org.uk 8th Staje in Concert Abbey Theatre, Westminster Lodge, St Albans, 01727 857861, popular jazz, funk, soul & blues big band, 8pm 14th Lunchtime Organ Recital St Albans Cathedral, 12.30pm, free 16th Buildings of the Hat Industry Stockwood Discovery Centre, 01582 548600, a look at some of Luton's most interesting history through film

footage, photos & museum artefacts, 2pm - 3.30pm, £7, £5 16th & 17th, 20th - 24th Théresè Raquin Abbey Theatre, St Albans, 01727 857861, 8pm, adult £10.25 - £12.25, concs £9.25 - £11.25 17th St Albans International Organ Festival Organ Recital St Albans Cathedral, 5.30pm, free Exhibition: Brambleton Model Railway Club Harpenden Public Halls, mix of layouts, preservation stands & traders, 10.30am - 5.30pm 23rd Royal Marines Band Concert The Alban Arena 7.30pm, £24, £20 www.alban-arena.co.uk 24th Frozen University of Herts Galleries, Hatfield, a fun interactive workshop for children, film £2.50, workshop £4 www.herts.ac.uk 24th & 25th Residents First Weekend www.stalbans.gov.uk 25th Harpenden Farmers Market High Street, 10am 26th Nils Lofgren The Alban Arena, 8pm, £38.50, £28.50 www.alban-arena.co.uk 28th Tour: Abbey by Night St Albans Cathedral, a rare chance to explore the Cathedral by candlelight, drinks reception 15 minutes before the tour time, 8pm & 8.30pm, £12 29th - 31st Bugsy Malone The Alban Arena, 8pm, adult £12 £16, concs £12.50 - £14 www.alban-arena.co.uk 31st

Christmas Holiday Multi Sports Camps Roundwood Park School 23rd December & 2nd January Sibling Discount 25% Football Basketball Tag Rugby Badminton Rounders Hockey Athletics Cricket Dodge Ball Bench Ball Tchouk Ball Tennis Silent Ninja, Parachute & more

01582 767063 07973 692664 44

Beauty and the Beast 19th - 22nd & 27th - 30th December A breathtaking retelling of a traditional tale. There’s something for everyone in this delightful Christmas show: it’s funny and moving, but also serves up a delicious dollop of scariness to keep you on your toes! You’ll visit an enchanted palace, meet an insect orchestra that lives in a box and even watch a thought snatcher machine at work.

Abbey Theatre Westminster Lodge, St Albans 01727 857861

ART CLASSES FOR KIDS!

Holiday Workshops and Term Time Classes in ST ALBANS

www.fineart4kids.com

07949 293463

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Index of Businesses

Accountants Hicks TaxAssist Accountants

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Aerial Installations Concorde Aerials Harpenden Digital Services

Conservatory Roof Solutions Nu-Look

15

Counselling / Sex Therapy Michael Stock

Hot Tubs 29 A5 Hot Tubs

11 13 Dance & Drama Stagecoach

Beauty Lavender & Stone

8 Electricians I & B Electrical MLC Electrical 29 Selmon Electrical Services

Biographer Bound Biographies Blinds Colourblindz Harpenden Blinds Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop Ltd

Fencing 21 Verulam Fencing 21 Financial Management AMR Financial 37 Management

Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services Ltd

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Charity Traid Children’s Art Classes FineArt4Kids!

Chimney Sweep Poppins Chimney Sweep Chiropodists Kathy Witchard Cleaning Big Yellow Carpet Brite Domestico Merrivac Mobile Maid Services Murrays Cleaning Services Computer Repairs Ken Hodson

G N I D D U P T U R K E Y

D E M A N G E R E B A I H

E S N O W S T F I G M E O

C N H L S L O R A C I O L

O E R I L L C G O L D T L

23 3 & 47

Indian Restaurant 43 Shapla Restaurant

5 Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

Holiday Village Thatches Holiday Village

Foot Care Golinska Foot Care

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Ironing Ironbusters

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Kindergarten 13 Artisans 10 Ladies Fashion 13 Seymour Styles Outdoor Clothing 12 Complete Outdoors

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45 29 back cover

Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators 8 M & M Decorating

41 19 18

Gardening / Landscaping 20 AR Landscapes Ltd Garden Life Landscapes 45 Greenshouse & Gardens Supagrass

Pet Care 33 Personal Petcare 33 31 Plasterer 34 A. Merson Plastering

Garden Nursery / Centre 38 Bridge Valley Nursery Burston Garden Centre 7 Gas K25 41 39 Goalkeeper Coaching 41 GK Icon 39 Health & Fitness 38 The Fit Lab 39 Hearing Services The Hearing 10 Healthcare Practice

Plumbers 2 DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd 12 & 47 12 35 Girlie Plumbing

R C A G E E E E R T R E Y

A N N H I B I T S A S L H

T I G T G A S I D F T T H

I K E S H S A I R O A S R

O N L S T A T N A S B I Y

N A S G N I K M C R L M M

S R U D O L P H T A E R W

Hidden phrase: Christmas is a time for families. Dorothy Koomson

C F I N M S Y O T F L E S

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Pond Maintenance 12 Women With Waders

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Recruitment Agency 45 KA Marketing

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Security 7 Maximum Security Systems

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Shutters Just Shutters

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Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Services.co.uk

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Tyre Fitting Big D’s Tyres

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Window Cleaner Harpenden Window Cleaning

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Windows & Doors AA Window Repairs Cloudy2Clear Kings Windows Sash Restorations Ltd

19 17 2 15

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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