harpenden NOW March 17

harpenden

NOW

March 2017

Lambing Weekend Treat Your Mum NOW at the Local Theatres

Bubble Rush 2017

NOW for Some Art NOW at The Public Halls

What’s on and lots more

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NOW at the Public Halls

Welcome to March...

music, films & pipers

Treat Your Mum

...such a lovely month with spring flowers popping up, and warmer days and lighter evenings to look forward to once the clocks go forward. And of course time to treat our lovely Mums to something special.

Once again there’s lots of events happening from Mothers Day afternoon teas, art exhibitions and local theatre productions to aircraft events, murder mysteries, magic shows, a lambing weekend, walking and much more.

As always we have really enjoyed putting the magazines together this month, and are thankful to all our advertisers, contributors and readers for continuing to indulge us in having such a lovely job!

Happy reading and remember you can always read the NOW magazines every month on-line.

Jane & Wendy 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com www.theNOWmagazines.com

champagne, flowers & tea

NOW at the Local Theatres

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drama, music & pottery

NOW for Some Art 10 an exhibition or 3

Lambing Weekend 12 Oaklands College

NOW for some Music 20 organs, classical & more

Medicine, Music, Magic & More! 24 March fun for all

NOW for a Walk or Two 30 rides, walks & talks

Deliciousandreal 32 something simple

Bubble Rush 2017 36 bubbles of fun

Just email wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

to be in the April editions

Deadline: 10th March

NOW at The Alban Arena 40 music, comedy & more

What’s on in March 42 & April 44 Index of Businesses 46 accountants to windows & doors

Please call

01582 766728 for seasonal opening times

Spring Plants

Now Available

To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW at the Public Halls Film: Hunt for the Wilderpeople cert 12A 1st March 8pm £5 Raised on hip-hop and foster care, defiant city kid Ricky gets a fresh start in the New Zealand countryside. He quickly finds himself at home with his new foster family: the loving Aunt Bella, the cantankerous Uncle Hec. When a tragedy strikes, he and Hec go on the run in the bush. As a national manhunt ensues, the newly branded outlaws must face their options: go out in a blaze of glory or overcome their differences and survive as a family.

Mind Body Spirit 4th March 10am - 5pm Phoenix MBS Events offers an exciting introduction to the way holistic living works and can change your life. With free talks and demonstrations from knowledgeable and experienced professionals.

For further information and tickets visit www.phoenixmbsevents.co.uk Paul Lamb & The King Snakes 8th March 7.30pm £15 Acknowledged as being among the finest purveyors of Rhythm & Blues. Mixing traditional blues, R&B and roots-rock with a unique British perspective, the band has come up with an original and invigorating sound that plays particularly well on stage, and are often heralded as one of the few remaining true blues acts.

Oye Santana 11th March 7.30pm £16 Presenting four decades’ worth of hits from ‘Black Magic Woman’ and ‘Oye Como Va’ via ‘Carnaval’, ‘Dance Sister Dance’ and ‘She’s Not There’ to ‘Smooth’, ‘Maria Maria’ and ‘Corazón Espinado’ all played with power, passion and perfection. Prepare yourself for guitar wizardry, keyboard mastery, astonishing vocals and powerhouse brass, and a rhythm section with more groove than you could shake a pair of maracas at.

Absolute Bowie 24th March 7.30pm £18.50 Europe’s Finest David Bowie Tribute continue to celebrate the life and music of the Starman with a spectacular show uniting Bowie fans across the UK. The band has toured Europe for the last 8 years, faithfully performing the music of David Bowie with uncanny accuracy. The audience are taken on a journey experiencing the different personas of Bowie, from Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane through to The Thin White Duke and the late 80’s.

Rory Bremner ‘Partly Political’ 21st April Sold Out

Red Hot Chilli Pipers 28th April 7.30pm £22.50 A genuinely unique experience; a fusion of traditional pipe tunes and contemporary anthems, tracks include the likes of 'Clocks' by Coldplay, Film: Love and Friendship cert U ‘Chasing Cars’ by Snow Patrol, ‘Let Me Entertain 9th March 8pm £5 You’ by Robbie Williams, Queen's 'We Will Rock Set in the 1790s, this film centres on beautiful You', a rock medley of Deep Purple's widow, Lady Susan Vernon, who has come to the 'Smoke On The Water' and AC/DC's estate of her in-laws to wait out colourful rumours 'Thunderstruck'. Plus, 'Flower of Scotland', about her dalliances circulating through polite ‘Amazing Grace’ and 'The Hills of Argyll' get a society. While there, she decides to secure a look in too, Chilli style of course! husband for herself and her rather reluctant debutante daughter.

Southdown Road, Howard Jones 10th March Sold Out Harpenden AL5 1PD 01582 767525 www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

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Spring Special 25% off Shutters 20% off all Blinds, Awnings, Poles & Curtains

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Treat Your Mum! Giant Flowers Workshop 26th March 10am - 11am & 11am - 12 noon Make giant tissue paper flowers for Mothers Day and discover the importance of wild flowers and how they affect wildlife. Children will need a grown up with them, but there will be helpers around to assist and supply the materials. £4, booking essential Chilterns Gateway Centre, Dunstable Downs LU6 2GY www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Champagne Afternoon Tea 26th March 12pm, 1pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 4.30pm Treat mum this Mothering Sunday and enjoy a Champagne afternoon tea in the Manor Restaurant.

Served with a dainty cakes and pastries and a selection of savouries.

Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk

Afternoon Tea 26th March 1pm & 2.30pm Treat mum to a well-deserved freshly baked Afternoon Tea in this delightful setting, with a chance to explore its grand rooms and a free gift for mum!

Please book £19.95, child £9.95 The Shuttleworth Collection, Beds SG18 9EP www.shuttleworth.org

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NOW at the Local Theatres Maltings Arts Theatre St Albans AL1 3HL Dan Raza, Danny Pedler and Rosie Butler-Hall and Saul Bailey 3rd March 8pm Dan Raza is one of the leading lights on the UK singer songwriter and folk roots scene.

Danny and Rosie are young folk musicians their music is characterised by flowing melodies and intricate harmonies. Saul Bailey describes his repertoire as ‘a mix of dance stuff, fast stuff, furious stuff and ridiculous stuff.’ £10, concs £8 / £6

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turns out to be an old British classic from the 1940s. As the young viewers absorb the adventures of the characters in the film, they begin to discover what their own ‘great expectations’ might be.

01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

Sandpit Theatre

The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX DCPG Pottery Open Day 4th March 9.30am A day of lectures and practical demonstrations from; Walter Keeler, Christopher Taylor and Felicity Aylieff. A must for all potters, ceramicists and artists. £30, students £10 Splendour Big Book Tall Tales 16th - 18th March 5th March 2pm & 23rd - 25th March 7pm This story takes place in a A Western photojournalist forgotten tattered library. Enjoy an awaits the return of the dictator adventure that will have you falling to take his portrait. The through the pages of a huge book, dictator’s wife, her best friend discovering washed away words and an interpreter wait with her. and helping the caretaker find the All four women harbour secrets story! £6, concs £4 and suspicions and all are in Don’t Dribble on the Dragon! danger. £12, concs £11 / £7.50 12th March 2pm The James Brothers Based on a new book by Steven and Shorelark Lee with magic designed by much 31st March 8pm loved Paul Daniels, this musical Playing the music of their roots adventure about growing up and and telling jokes without fear of the importance of family is a feel good show for being told off. That’s the James Brothers. Two adults and little ones alike. men. Two Voices. Two Instruments… No Sheilas. £8, concs £6 Shorelark are a new young folk duo, inspired by Chemistry Show influences from Brazilian to Baroque.

14th March 6pm £10, concs £6 An evening filled with loud noises, flashing lights 0333 666 3366 and lots of mess! Free www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk What’s The Matter? A Quantum Comedy Abbey Theatre 15th March 6pm St Albans AL1 2DL An unexplained cat theft from a physics laboratory leads scientist Smithy on a journey through his own Rope 24th February - 4th March Two Oxford undergraduates, Brandon and Granillo, experiment. With physical comedy and scientific slapstick, be prepared for a very silly show about murder a fellow student for no other reason than an intelligent subject! For ages 8-108! ‘the fun of the thing’. £8, concs £6 The Pirates of Penzance 15th - 18th March Oklahoma!

A strong and lively cast with the St Albans 25th March 2.30pm & 6.30pm Chamber Opera orchestra and chorus, it promises Performed by West Herts Youth Music Theatre to be a wonderful evening of melodies and fun. £9 concs £7 The School Film 22nd - 24th March 8pm 01727 799565 Presented by The Company of Teens A school assembles to watch ‘the school film’ which www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

01727 298

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NOW for some Art

Exhibition: Root and Branch 4th March running until 2018 11am - 2pm Showcasing some of Ashridge’s best and most fascinating trees. Featuring stunning photography from National Trust regional volunteer photographer, Hugh Mothersole. Learn about the history of some of these trees, and how they are looked after. On 4th March join the rangers at 12 noon on a two hour guided walk to see some of the veteran trees. This event is free, but please pre-book for the guided walk on 01442 851227. picture courtesy of Hugh Mothersole Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, Herts HP4 1LT 01442 851227 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate

Exhibition: Harpenden Photographic Society 11th March 10am - 4.30pm HPS is the leading photographic club in the area. They hold an annual exhibition each spring. This year they will be showing 200 images covering a wide range of subjects from around the world. The public are invited to vote for their favourite image. So go along and be inspired, meet their members and find out about joining this local award winning club.

Entry to see the work is free.

Picture ‘Jokulsarlon Beach - Iceland’ by Trish French

Methodist Church Hall, High Street, Harpenden www.harpendenphotographicsociety.co.uk

Exhibition: British Wildlife Photography Awards until 26th March 10am - 4pm Free Established to recognise the incredible talents of British photographers, while at the same time highlighting the great wealth and diversity of Britain’s natural history.

This highly acclaimed exhibition will captivate you with its outstanding and beautiful imagery.

Stockwood Discovery Centre LU1 4LX www.lutonculture.com

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Gary Rackley High Quality Decorator Interior & Exterior Insurance Work Undertaken Established 26 Years City & Guilds Qualified 01923 460701 07721 624326 garyrackley@hotmail.co.uk

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 Matthew Hayden 01582 270715 07970 720911

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Aircraft Galore de Havilland Museum Reopens 5th March Why not visit the oldest aviation museum in the UK dedicated to the preservation and display of de Havilland Aircraft. The de Havilland Aircraft Company played an important role in the history of aircraft development in 20th century Britain, creating world beating aeronautical innovations. This included many iconic aircraft such as the de Havilland Mosquito - The Wooden Wonder, the Comet - the world’s first jet airliner, the Tiger Moth - the backbone of the RAF’s Shuttleworth Collection training aircraft in WWII and the Airspeed Murder Mystery Evening Horsa Glider - used extensively by our 11th March 7pm airborne troops in 1944 during D-Day, Arnhem ‘Mystery in History’ have written a new Murder Mystery and the Rhine crossing. based around the history of Shuttleworth House…. go back It’s a working museum where the aircraft are to the 1930s, learn about the Shuttleworth family and actively restored by volunteers who are estate… and use your little grey cells to solve a most always willing to talk and answer your dastardly crime! The night’s entertainment includes a three questions. If you’d like to volunteer there are course dinner. £45 often positions available in Marketing and Research, Site Maintenance, Carpentry, Metal Talk: Restoration of a Regency Gem Work and Restoration. Why not get in touch to 26th March 11am - 12 noon find out more about getting involved.

Explore the history, creation and restoration of the Swiss de Havilland Aircraft Museum, Garden, from Lord Onglely’s ‘Swiss vision’, the Shuttleworth London Colney AL2 1BU family’s interventions and future plans for the garden in this www.dehavillandmuseum.co.uk fascinating talk by Swiss Garden Manager Corinne Price.

Includes a slide show of historical images recent restoration work. Please book: talk £9.95 / talk & tea £26.95, ages 16+ The Shuttleworth Collection Nr Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9EP 01767 627933 www.shuttleworth.org

RAF Museum London International Women's Day 8th March Learn about the pioneering women who shaped the RAF and aviation, followed by a special screening commemorating the women behind Spitfire manufacture during WWII. Access the Avro Vulcan Last Tuesday of each month - next dates: 28th March & 25th April Climb into this magnificent aircraft, a rare opportunity for any Vulcan fan. Your experience will last 15 minutes. Once inside the crew area you can take photos and ask questions, after that you’ll climb the ladder leading to the cockpit where you can sit in the pilots seat. £30, age 16+ RAF Museum London NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london 020 8205 2266

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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

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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 ~

before

after

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World Book Day 2nd March In celebration of books and reading, National Book Tokens in partnership with schools all over the country, will be handing out more than 15 million £1 book tokens to children.

When you receive your book token take it to your local bookshop and swap it for one of the ten World Book Day books. Or get £1 off any full price book instead. It’s your choice, just as long as the book or audio book costs at least £2.99, then all you have to do is take it home and enjoy the read.

World Book Day book tokens are valid from 27th February - 26th March

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To Advertise: 07983 588313 wendy@theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW for some Music Prokofiev and Tchaikovsky 11th March 7.30pm St Saviour's Church Sandpit Lane, St Albans, AL1 4DF Prokofiev: Love for Three Oranges Suite Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Prokofiev: Symphony No 5 Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto is one of the best known, and is considered one of the most technically difficult works for the violin.

Prokofiev wrote his Symphony No.5 in one month in the summer of 1944, in the midst of World War II. He intended it as “a hymn to free and happy Man, to his mighty powers, his pure and noble spirit”. £16, £11,students £5, child £1 01582 873920 www.saso.org.uk JamJar 14th March 8.30pm - 1am Attic Bar, University of Hertfordshire AL10 9AB Discover new music, whatever your tastes. www.uharts.co.uk

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The King Shall Rejoice 18th March 7.30pm FREE Tickets for Young People High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden The Hardynge Choir would like to encourage young people to come and experience the joy of choral music and are offering free tickets for those 16 years and under to this, its opening concert of 2017.

Handel - Dettingen Te Deum Handel - The King Shall Rejoice Boyce - Symphony No. 1 Carter - Musick’s Jubilee £14, students £7, child free 0845 475 1664 www.hardyngechoir.org 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

www.arlandscapes.co.uk

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

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Medicine, Music, Magic & More!

Old Time Music Hall 2nd - 4th March 8pm £14 A performance by Kimpton Players, a thriving amateur dramatic group started in 1943 who have raised thousands of pounds for good causes. They also have an energetic youth section, the Junior Kimpton Players, who produce their own shows and participate in some of the productions. They’re always looking for new members from 11 years and over to cover all aspects of putting on a show from acting and stage management to painting scenery.

If you’re interested in joining call 01438 832 620.

Kimpton Memorial Hall, Hall Lane, Kimpton SG4 8RD www.thekimptonplayers.co.uk

Stable Yard Antiques and Collectables Market 18th March 10am - 5pm Why not visit the first monthly antiques market of 2017 in Hatfield House Stable Yard, offering a huge range of antiques and collectibles. Pick up unusual curiosities including furniture, mirrors, hats and ornaments. Free entry Hatfield House www.hatfield-house.co.uk

Exhibition: ’We Love 90's Film' until 30th April free In celebration of the ‘We Love 90's Film Festival’, local artist John Pritchard has created a series of paintings inspired by each screening and celebrating this decade of outstanding cinema. John is a 22 year old artist who mainly works in alkyd oil and acrylic paint. It can take him weeks to paint a single frame from a film; he hopes his paintings not only create a sensation for the viewer, but also serve as a testament to the effort and energy that so many people from so many disciplines put into creating a film - from the Casting Director to the Catering Department and everyone in between working together.

The Hat Factory, Luton, LU1 2EY www.lutonculture.com/hat-factory

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The Roald Dahl Museum Biffsquiggling Brains 5th March 12 noon, 1.30pm & 3pm Discover how Dahl was something of a brain scientist and join in with some brain games then make something crafty for your mind. £3 per child, ages 4+ Marvellous Medicine with Roald Dahl’s Doctor 11th March 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm Dahl was fascinated with medicine, join Professor Tom Solomon, who uses Roald’s stories to explain how the body works, what can go wrong and how we can fix it. He describes how Roald invented a medical device and new treatment still in use today.

You’ll also produce Gobblefunk and learn how to make your own marvellous medicine. £3, ages 4+ Discover Dahl’s Archives 11th March 12 noon, 1pm & 2pm A unique behind-the-scenes peek into the archive store, housing Dahl’s original letters and manuscripts. £1, ages 8+ Marvellous Medicine Trail 11th & 12th March 11am - 5pm Free with Museum entry Signed Stories Day 12th March 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm & 3.30pm Enjoy BSL signed storytelling from Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes, try out ‘Signly’ the sign language app, and meet some hearing dogs between 11am and 5pm as part of Disabled Access Day. Free with Museum entry.

Make Some Marvellous Medicine 18th March 12 noon, 1.30pm & 3pm Find out about Roald Dahl’s interest in medicine before making your own marvellous concoction!

What will your mixture be the cure for? £3, ages 4+ The Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden www.roalddahl.com

Dodos Exhibition until 25th June Free See one of the few dodo skeletons in the world.

Explore displays and play games to learn about the new discoveries that have been made from these old bones.

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

Mill Green Museum Woodturning Workshop - Adult Taster Day 4th March £45 Learn from local craftsman Colin Smith about different woods, use a lathe and produce at least one item to take home. Refreshments, equipment and all materials provided. Booking essential.

Easter Decorations Workshop 18th March 10am - 4pm £35 Make a variety of Easter decorations by working with different craft materials. Learn the basics of homemade decorations from an experienced tutor who will guide those wishing to improve their needlework skills. Booking essential.

Other workshops and taster sessions are available in the beautiful setting of Mill Green on subjects as diverse as photography, quilting, bee keeping and more. They are all friendly, practical and taught by experts, dates and times by arrangement.

01707 357850 Mill Green Museum, Hatfield AL9 5PD www.welhat.gov.uk/millgreenmuseum

Waddesdon Manor Forgotten Tales 11th & 12th March 12.30pm & 2.30pm £8, child £6, family £22 Help the world’s most forgetful storyteller invent a brand new tale in this hilarious show for the whole family. He’s forgotten his storybook. He’s forgotten how to start a story. He’s even forgotten his packed lunch. Luckily he has got a big box of silly costume bits and an imaginative audience brimming with ideas. Every performance of is unique, unplanned and unrepeatable!

Disgusting Creatures 18th & 19th March 12.30pm & 2.30pm £8, child £6, family £22 Storyteller Alex Kanefsky will take you on an interactive safari of creepy crawlies, slimy slitherers and feathery fiends. A funny, innovative and downright disgusting collection of original stories that explores some of the more fearsome creatures scuttling, flapping and slithering their way over the planet. Help Alex answer questions such as ‘where do they come from?’, ‘how did they get here?’ and ‘what are those slugs doing in my bathroom!?’ Age 5+ Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk

Family Fun Day and Fayre 2nd April 12 - 5pm Art and crafts; Little Kickers Football Appearances from Spiderman, Peppa Pig, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Ironman.

XLR8 Dance & Fitness; Dance taster session; Kollection Dance Group performing; Mini disco.

Rides and Stalls, Bouncy Castles and much more. £2, child £1, under 2's free.

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

The Close-Up Magic Show 18th March 8pm An intimate evening of close-up magic, trickery and sleight of hand. This unique event showcases some of the best exponents direct from the shows at The Magic Circle. Audiences will experience magic in the intimate setting of the Studio, often taking part themselves. Prepare to be amazed! £16.50, ages 10+ www.hertfordtheatre.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 26

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Kathy Witchard Chiropodist/Podiatrist Kathy achieved her state registered qualification back in 1986 and worked in NHS hospitals in North London to gain experience.

She then moved on to become a senior manager in the NHS chiropody department in St Albans.

She specialised in surgical procedures and at the same time branched out into private practice, which included the start of a 25 year relationship working from Davenport House doctor’s surgery in Harpenden.

She said: “I can’t believe where the years have gone. I have always enjoyed a great relationship with the staff and doctors there. Although many of my patients are private referrals from the GPs, the majority are simply members of the public who choose to come to the surgery for assessment and treatment.”

Kathy’s typical workload would includes ingrowing toenails, corns, calluses and a broad spectrum of foot related issues.

She says: “Whilst the majority of my patients are inevitably elderly – I have worked with Age Concern for more than 20 years - I also get great satisfaction from working with my special-needs clients.”

Kathy’s home visits enable her less mobile patients to be seen in the comfort of their own surroundings. She covers St Albans, Harpenden and most of the surround areas (Park Street, London Colney, Wheathampstead and Redbourn).

So what advice can Kathy offer following three decades in her profession?

“There are really only two main points. First, if you become aware of an issue, don’t put it off. It is very unlikely to get better by itself. A relatively small cost can relieve pain and anxiety.

“Secondly – always see a properly qualified health professional.

Look out for the ‘HCPC’ qualification.”

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Please Help our Portly Ponies Dogs and Daffs Day 26th March

NOW for a Walk and more Five Miles to Fabulous Bike Ride 4th March leaving at 9.30am South Herts CTC women rides are celebrating International Women’s Day, with a ride starting from Morrisons, Hatfield Road, St Albans, meet by the cycle stands. Enjoy an easy pace ride using traffic free routes and quieter roads. Distance is a 5 - 10 mile loop, with a coffee stop. Any bicycle is fine, but check it before, making sure the tyres are pumped up and the brakes work. www.southhertsctc.org.uk

RSPB Events These events are run by an RSPB volunteer group, and at each one a donation of £1 to the RSPB would be appreciated.

Harpenden Lea Valley Walk 5th March 8am - 10.15am Guided walk identifying local birds.

Meet on the bridge over the River Lea near the 'Marquis of Granby', junction of Crabtree Lane and Marquis Lane.

A Morning Walk in Brocket Park 22nd March 9.45am For meeting point, contact leaders Ann and Roger Doubleday on 01582 764226.

Ashridge Gentle Stroll - Signs of Spring 12th April 10.30am - 12.30pm Join the knowledgeable volunteers to look at Ashridge’s huge variety of plant species. £3 just turn up.

Dawn Chorus Walk 29th April 5am - 7am Experience early morning birdsong in a glorious setting with the rangers who will identify bird sing, breakfast at the Bownlow Café included. £15, child £10, please book.

Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berkhamsted HP4 1LT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate 01442 851227

Talk: Secret Britain Journey through Nature 9th March 8pm £3 by professional photographer Andrew Sands.

All Saints Church Hall, Harpenden AL5 4UU 01582 765443 geoffrhorn@yahoo.co.uk

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Dawn and Darragh are the latest recruits to the Digswell Place Group Riding for the Disabled Association. These Highland Ponies are perfect companions for riders with disabilities as they give a solid ride with no fuss.

To make the most of their skills both Dawn and Darragh need bespoke saddles to accommodate their wide girth. The saddles cost £1500 each, a small price for the amount of enjoyment and confidence they will bring their riders once they have completed their training.

Chairman of the Digswell Place Group RDA, Caroline MacFarlane said: “These two ponies were chosen because of their temperament and their ability to instill confidence in the most disabled of riders. They are gentle and calm and because of their sturdiness, they can carry a lot of weight too. They are already proving popular with the volunteers.”

The Digswell Place Group RDA has teamed up with the Stable Yard at Hatfield House to hold their third Dogs and Daffs Day to raise the much needed funds for the saddles. Last year’s event raised £4,500 which was used to build a new field shelter at the stables.

During the day walkers can enjoy Hatfield Park exclusively for a small donation to the charity and dog lovers can enter a fun dog show, with a category just for mums, as the event falls on Mother’s Day! There will also be dog displays and scurrying to take part in - again for a small donation to the charity. www.hatfield-house.co.uk

New Lower Prices for 2017

Rothamsted Tennis Club Looking for a friendly tennis club to join?

We have vacancies for new members of all ages to join our local Harpenden club, situated within the grounds of Rothamsted Research

Four all-weather courts set in attractive parkland ÂŁ60 Annual Membership Clubhouse with subsidised bar Social events and L.T.A. affiliated If interested please contact: Peter Hedden: peter.hedden@rothamsted.ac.uk Mark Wilkinson: mark.wilkinson@rothamsted.ac.uk

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Deliciousandreal - something simple Lemon Crunch Yogurt A healthy breakfast that is simple enough for the kids to prepare for Mother’s Day! To make it even better add fresh berries, they make an excellent addition to this delicious morning treat.

Bowl of full fat Greek yogurt A few almonds Sprinkling of chia seeds A dollop of lemon curd Generous spoonful of granola Spoon the Greek yogurt into a bowl, arrange the other ingredients on top. If you have any fresh fruit (blueberries work well) add them too.

Homemade Fish Fingers They other day, I got home from work at 3pm and by 3:15 I had these fish fingers ready to go into the oven. It’s all about preparation and with this recipe it was the breadcrumbs; I save crusts from my loaves of bread, blitz them in a food processor and pop them in the freezer, ready for when I need them. We like them served in a toasted pitta bread with salad – our version of a posh fish finger sandwich! A delicious, easy and nutritious home-cooked dinner for the kids.

1 large salmon fillet (split lengthways and skin removed…if you leave the skin on and don’t breadcrumb it they are just as good!)

Mayonnaise Handful of breadcrumbs Preheat the oven to 180°C Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the salmon fillets Roll them in the breadcrumbs until covered Place on a baking tray and cook for 10-15 minutes

Rock Cakes - Just Like Mum Makes These remind me of being a child, I remember making them with my mum. Such a delightful and easy, treat for children…and adults! I’ve made a few changes to my mum’s recipe - I’ve added coconut and apricots to the sultanas and used a light muscovado for an extra treacly flavour. Soft, sweet and delicious.

40g apricots 100g butter (cut into chunks and softened) 20g desiccated coconut 225g self raising flour 1 egg (beaten) 1 tsp cinnamon Splash of milk 75g soft muscovado sugar 60g sultanas Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking tray Put the butter in a bowl, add the flour and cinnamon Rub the butter and flour together, with your fingers, until it resembles breadcrumbs Add the sugar, fruit, coconut and egg and stir with a spoon Add a little milk to bring the mixture together Use an ice-cream scoop (it’s the perfect size) to put mounds of the mixture onto the baking tray Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown Allow to cool…then enjoy!

For more tasty family friendly recipes follow local mum Claire Gillies Twitter: @deliciousreal16 Instagram: @deliciousandreal Facebook: @deliciousreal

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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 34

01582 864138 / 01727 453019 www.theNOWmagazines.com

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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

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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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NOW at the Alban Arena

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Dave Mason 1st March 7.30pm A show for all fans of rock and 60s culture to witness up close a gifted songwriter, a distinctive vocalist, as well as a masterful guitarist.

Seth Lakeman 2nd March 8pm West Country folk singer, songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Seth, performs songs from his eighth studio album ‘Ballads of The Broken Few’.

Stewart Lee - Content Provider 3rd March 8pm After four years writing and performing in his TV show Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, this is his new full-length show. 16+ So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs?!

4th March 1.30pm Come and test your knowledge against Ben Garrod (the TV scientist in ‘Attenborough and the Giant Dinosaur‘). With TV film footage and photos of his own palaeontological dinosaur digs, he will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about dinosaurs - and more.

Rob Beckett - Mouth of the South 4th March 8pm Back with his new show of funnies taking on big issues like Kit Kats and flatbread!

Hertfordshire Wedding Fair 5th March 11am - 4pm Annie 9th - 11th March 7.30pm / Sat 2.30pm Rare Productions Youth Theatre Group Gilbert O’Sullivan The 50th Anniversary Tour 12th March 7.30pm 2017 marks 50 years since Gilbert O’Sullivan made his first foray into the music business.

Count Arthur Strong ‘The Sound of Mucus’ 16th March 8pm Using stories and other things that are secret, this showbiz legend, pays tribute to one of the best musicals he can remember. Uniquely recreating the salient and poignant moments for your enjoyment.

Rob Brydon 17th March 8pm Perhaps best known for TV shows Gavin and Stacey, Would I Lie To You? and The Trip to name but a few!

Lee Hurst Comedy Show No. 9 18th March 7.30pm Back on the road with his 9th comedy show, come along for a night of laughs with that bald bloke you thought was dead.

Miami Pro World Championships 19th March 2.30pm Europe biggest fitness model championships.

Matt Forde It’s My Political Party (And I’ll Cry if I Want To) 21st March 8pm Matt celebrates why it’s great/awful that we’re in/ out of the EU/UK/NATO/whatever the hell happens next.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar 22nd March 2pm & 4.30pm This timeless classic makes its way off the page onto the stage, with 75 lovable puppets.

Jon Richardson: The Old Man 24th March 8pm Star of Live At The Apollo and 8 Out Of 10 Cats complains about the state of the world and offers no solutions. 14+ The Ultimate Civic Disco 25th March 7pm - 12.30am This event sees the return of local Soul legends “Soulfish” down in the “soul cellar” guest DJ’s will be playing the best Dance -Soul -Stax and Motown! Proceeds towards the St Albans Museum project. Over 25’s The Bootleg Beatles 30th March 7.30pm Tracing the Fab Four’s journey through the sixties, every detail is covered from costumes to period instruments; from their witty ‘Scouse’ banter to their ‘inflection perfect’ vocal mimicry.

Magic of Motown 31st March 8pm Prepare yourself for 40 back-to-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship. 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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What’s on in March 42

until 4th March Rope see page 8 until 26th March Exhibition: British Wildlife Photography Awards see page 10 until 25th June Exhibition: Dodos see page 25 2nd - 4th Old Time Music Hall see page 24 3rd Harpenden Writers Meeting Quaker Meeting House, Southdown Road, 01582 760564, ‘New Year Resolutions & other failed promises’ 10am - 12 noon www.harpendenwriters.com 4th Root & Branch see page 10 Mind Body Spirit see page 4 DCPG Pottery Open Day see page 8 Rob Beckett - Mouth of the South see page 40 5th Big Book Tall Tales see page 8 7th Seasons Greetings by Linda Seabrook Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, 2pm 8th International Women’s Day at RAF Museum London see page 14 11th Murder Mystery Evening see page 14 Theatre Organ Concert see page 20 Oye Santana see page 4 Exhibition: Harpenden Photographic Society see page 10 Prokofiev & Tchaikovsky see page 20 12th Gilbert O’Sullivan see page 40 Musical Sunday Afternoon see page 20 Don’t Dribble on the Dragon! see page 8 14th Chemistry Show see page 8 Harpenden Gardening Society Talk: Caroline Tait, Nursery Manager Coton Manor Roundwood Park School, 8pm, £3 wwwharpendengardeningsociety.org 15th Ladies Beginners Running Group www.stalbanshalfmarathon.co.uk French Somali Coast St Mary's Church, Childwickbury AL3 6JJ, St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society, 8pm What’s The Matter? A Quantum Comedy see page 8

15th - 18th The Pirates of Penzance see page 8 16th Talk: Stained Glass in St Albans Abbey: Ancient & Modern St Albans Cathedral, 7.30pm, £10.50 17th Dr Feelgood & The Reformers Bedford Esquires, £16, 8pm www.thepadpresents.com 18th The King Shall Rejoice see page 20 Lee Hurst Comedy Show No 9 see page 40 Brocket Consort sing the Baroque Masters St Albans Cathedral, 7.30pm Antiques & Collectables Market see page 24 Close-up Magic Show see page 25 The Close-up Magic Show see page 24 18th & 19th Lambing Weekend see page 12 19th Chilterns Cycle Challenge 35 or 75 mile route starting from Aylesbury, in aid of Rennie Grove www.renniegrove.org/chilternscycle 21st Talk: The Impeachment of Francis Bacon, 1621 by Simon Healy from the History of Parliament Trust, Harpenden Public Halls, Harpenden Local History Society, 8pm Start Art Monet Acrylic Workshop page 10 22nd The Very Hungry Caterpillar see page 40 22nd - 24th The School Film see page 8 24th Making Tax Digital Aldwickbury Golf Club, breakfast briefing, Visionary Accountants, 7.30am, free, please book emitchell@visionaryaccountants.co.uk Absolute Bowie Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 7.30pm, £18.50 see page 4 25th St Albans Choral Society St Albans Cathedral, 7.30pm, £10 - £25 Mothers Day Crafty Capers Verulamium Museum, ages 3 - 11, 2pm - 4pm, £1.50 Archaeology Apprentices Verulamium Museum, ages 5 - 11, 2.15pm & 3.15pm, free Glow Walk www.keech.org.uk Silent Films with Piano Accompaniment see page 20 26th Mothers Day Afternoon Teas see page 6 Dogs & Daffs Day see page 30 30th Bootleg Beatles see page 40

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What’s on in April

1st Gala Diamond Dinner Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, Harpenden, Soroptimist Women's Group 60th Anniversary, £39 www.sigbi.org/st-albans 2nd Luxury Wedding Show see back cover Classic Rally & Autojumble The Shuttleworth Collection SG18 9EP 10am, £8, child £4 3rd - 7th Easter Crafts Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, HP4 1LT 01442 851227, £2 per craft, 10am-4pm 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 7th Harpenden Writers Meeting Quaker Meeting House, Southdown Road, 01582 760564, 10am - 12 noon www.harpendenwriters.com 8th Workshop: Garden Design The Shuttleworth Collection SG18 9EP learn the basics of garden design & pick up expert tips, 10am, £40 8th & 9th PAW Patrol ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, celebrate the new Hunting Dog exhibit www.zsl.org 9th Rye Meads Spring Fun Day RSPB Rye Meads Nature Reserve SG12 8JS, 10am - 4 pm, £2 10th - 17th Cadbury Egg Hunt Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, HP4 1LT 01442 851227 11th Harpenden Gardening Society Talk: Colin Ward, Swines Meadow Farm Nursery Roundwood Park School, plant sale, 8pm, £3

wwwharpendengardeningsociety.org 12th South Sudan St Mary's Church, Childwickbury AL3 6JJ St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society, 8pm 15th & 16th Easter Art & Craft Show Redbourn Recreation Centre www.redbournvillage.org.uk 17th Easter Egg Festival Chenies Manor, Bucks WD3 6ER 2-5pm www.cheniesmanorhouse.co.uk 21st - 23rd & 25th - 29th The Ride Down Mt Morgan Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL, 01727 857861, exploring themes of truth, betrayal, self-deception & love 22nd NGS Open Day The Shuttleworth Collection SG18 9EP £8 concs £7, child free 25th Start Art Acrylic Workshop: Matryoshka Dolls see page 10 Harpenden Local History Society Meeting Harpenden Public Halls, 8pm 27th Floral Demonstration: Off the Wall by Jilly Griffin, All Saints Church, 7.30pm 27th & 29th Callisto#7 High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden High Street Players, thrilling comedy adventure www.ticketsource.co.uk/hsplayers 30th Harpenden Bowling Club Open Day Spenser Road, beginners & existing players, 10.30am - 4pm www.harpendenbowlingclub.co.uk Mad Hatters Tea Party The Shuttleworth Collection SG18 9EP £10, child free 1True Grit Benington Lordship SG2 7DG www.onetruegrit.com

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

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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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Index of Businesses Accountants Hicks

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Aerial Installations & Repairs Concorde Aerials 35 Art Classes Start Art!

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Beauty Lavender & Stone

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Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Hertfordshire

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Blinds Harpenden Blinds

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Building Services Brockhall Building Services Open Plan Solutions

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Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop

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Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services

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Charity The Harpenden Trust

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Chiropodist Kathy Witchard

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Cleaning Domestique Merrivac Mobile Maid Services Time For You Domestic Cleaning

16 16 17 11

Computer Repairs Ken Hodson

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Conservatory Roof Solutions Nu-Look

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Organ Theatre St Albans Organ Theatre

Dance & Drama Penny Waterman School of Dance Stagecoach

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18 19 Oven Cleaning Joe Oven Cleaner Oven Master

Domestic Appliance Repairs Leigh Hibon

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34 Painters & Decorators CB Decorators Electrician Gary Rackley ACR Electrical Ltd M & M Decorators & ACR Build 34 Plasterer A. Merson Plastering Fencing Verulam Fencing 21 Plumber Finance DJ&M Plumbing AMR Financial Management 41 Services Ltd

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Property Maintenance 47 The 50plus

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Furniture & Homeware Zoohause Ltd

13 13 13 5

Roofing Garden Centres / Nurseries Bridge Valley Nursery 3 GJ Smith Roofing Burston Garden Centre 6 Townsend Nursery 26 Security Maximum Security Gardening / Slimming Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd 21 LighterLife Garden Life Landscapes 27 Vision Weight Consultancy Greenshouse & Gardens Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice Insurance NFU Mutual Kindergarten / Nursery Artisans Redbourn House Day Nursery Lawn Maintenance Lawnscience Locksmith Lock Around the Clock

5 35 31 31

26 Stairlifts Age UK Stairlifts

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Tennis Club 28 Rothamsted Tennis Club

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Tree Surgeons 2 Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd

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Tyre Fitting 18 Big D’s Tyres

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19 Wedding Show Luxury Wedding Show Back Cover 22 & 23 Window Cleaner Harpenden Window Cleaning

5 Windows & Doors Cloudy2Clear Loft Ladders Kings Windows Home Counties Loft Ladders 15 Sash Restorations Ltd

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