harpenden now May 13

harpenden may 2013

NOW

WIN tickets see page 4

view ‘the NOW magazines’ online

promoting local businesses organisations and events since 2006

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YOUR LOCAL PLANT CENTRE

Now Open Every Day

01582 766728 2

Bedding and Basket Plants Perennials Roses and Shrubs

welcome to may

Spring is finally here and the songbirds are singing which means summer’s just around the corner. Time to get out and involved in what’s going on locally, with a host of sporting and outdoor events just have a flick through.

Don’t forget to get your entries in for Harpenden in Bloom and the Wildlife Photography Competition!

Congratulations to last month’s 4 lucky readers who each won a family meal at PizzaExpress. This month why not have a go and try your luck for tickets for the Herts County Show...just text us to win!

Don’t forget you can read ‘the NOW magazines’ each month online at www.harpendennow.com

jane & wendy to advertise call us NOW 07983 588291 07983 588313 cover picture courtesy of Ben Parker

Kimpton May Festival 8 wall to wall family fun

Harpenden’s History 12 history on our doorstep

Midnight Walk 16 walking in the pink

Art Expo Radlett 20 1 day art fair

Films for You 20 must see films

Harpenden in Bloom 22 get your entries in quick

A Sporting Selection 24 cycling, golf & volleyball

NOW at the Public Halls 26 music, comedy & more

NOW at Dunstable Downs 36 songbirds, butterflies & kites

What’s on in May 40 & June 42 local events for everyone

Index of Businesses 46 accountants to window cleaners

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JU S

TT EX TT O

WI N

WIN One of 6 Family Tickets (2 adults & 2 children)

just text “HERTS COUNTY SHOW HN your name & phone number” to 07983 588313 closing date 10th May

WIN

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

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get ‘your’ business noticed in ‘the NOW magazines’

This is the best and most effective paper advertising that we do, it definitely works for us” TaxAssist

07983 588313 07983 588291 view ‘the NOW magazines’ photo courtesy of Ben Parker

calling all pet lovers! 10th May is the Blue Cross Annual Tea Party Event and it’s going to be 6

bigger than ever. Register now at www.bluecross.org.uk and download our tea party host pack. It has been designed to make planning your event fun and easy, no matter how large or small. So put the kettle on, sit back, relax and get inspired with our ideas, recipes and stories to help you plan a successful tea party. www.bluecross.org.uk

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Kimpton May Festival

Kimpton village is hosting its 49th May Festival from 3rd to 6th May.

in the past helped launch a few showbiz careers, with hopefully some more this year. Sunday night showcases local brilliance of the cerebral kind at ‘Brains of Kimpton’ while the new ‘Music Night’ has music galore with ‘Oasiz’ providing a great tribute act, supported by ‘Nick and the Sun Machine’ together with other local bands.

This four day event starts on Friday with the Art Show opening night in the 13th century church Children’s activities include fairground rides, a and an exclusive English Wine Tasting Event football tournament, maypole dancing, the hosted by Mark Buckenham of The Wine Society. comedy clown duo ‘Wacky Tumblairs’ and sheep The Festival theme this year is ‘Toy Box’, what dog herding, not sheep, but geese - good luck was your favourite toy growing up, maybe it was Shep! There will also be jazz bands, a 10k funa board game or a cartoon character? Saturday’s run, a craft fair, barbecues, bars, a giant charity street procession of up to 30 themed floats will auction and Morris dancers, it certainly promises almost certainly include some of your favourites. to be wall-to-wall fun for the whole family.

Saturday night’s concert ‘Kimpton Entertains’ has www.kimptonmayfest.co.uk

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Harpenden in days gone by...

Harpenden is a thriving town, but to older residents it remains ‘the village’.

Many of the buildings and other landmarks from that earlier era are still with us, though their history is sometimes not readily apparent. Other important features from the past are now only memories, but Harpenden & District Local History Society seeks to keep these alive, by bringing Harpenden’s heritage to a wider audience. In the Society’s archive collection are many thousands of historical pictures, books, maps and other fascinating documents and artefacts.

‘The History Centre’ at Park Hall is open on Tuesday afternoons for anyone wanting to know more about the area and it’s community through past decades, and indeed centuries, to the present day.

Supported by Harpenden Town Council, the Society plays a vital role in giving Harpenden its unique identity.

Evening meetings are held at Harpenden Public Halls, with talks by invited speakers on a variety of topics (listed on the website).

These are usually on the fourth Tuesday of the month, except in July, August and December. Non-members are welcome.

Afternoon exhibitions on a variety of local themes are held quarterly on the first Saturday in March, June, September and December at Park Hall, Leyton Road, 2.30 - 4.30pm, using pictures, photos, documents and other objects from the Society’s archives.

Publications include a detailed history of Wheathampstead and Harpenden in six parts from pre-Roman to Victorian times; monographs on topics such as Harpenden Races, the Society’s newsletters, and Theodora’s Journals.

‘Around the Common’, follows the same pattern, concentrating on 16 sites around that part of Harpenden Common closest to the town, Town walks including the 175-year old Silver Cup Pub and Two new free illustrated pocket guides to the Harpenden Hall, parts of which date from ‘living history’ of Harpenden have recently been medieval times. published, focussing on the High Street and Copies of the new guides are available from buildings facing Harpenden Common.

Harpenden Town Hall, the Public Library and ‘A stroll along Harpenden High Street’, with its St Albans Tourist Office and City Museum. annotated street plan, describes 14 key locations For more information about the Society or between the Harpenden Arms and Sun Lane. becoming a member please contact Most are buildings from the first half of the 20th Alan Bunting Century or earlier, depicted in photographs that arbunting@btinternet.com serve as a reminder of Harpenden’s heritage as a 01582 760564 largely rural village. www.harpenden-history.org.uk

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Harpenden Blinds We Supply & Fit All Types of Blinds Awnings & Shutters Curtains Tracks & Poles Specialising in Bay Windows

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Spring Sale!

25% off Patio Awnings 20% off all Blinds Shutters Poles & Curtains

Love Language of Luton Alison Sesi, BA (Hons), QTS

Languages Teacher German and French GCSE Mandarin also offered

Holiday Revision Easter / Summer Adult and Younger Learners welcome Individuals or groups Teresa & Kevin Buckler

01582 461639 kevin.buckler@fit-ex.com www.fit-ex.com/hertfordshire 20 Bewdley Close Harpenden

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survival tips for small businesses

businesses. Visit www.taxassist.co.uk/directdebits for more information.

factoring or invoice discounting: Invoice discounting can be a way of drawing money against your invoices. Your business can remain in control over the administration of your sales ledger but it could provide a cost-effective way to improve your cashflow. Alternatively, a factoring package could provide you with the working capital and positive cashflow your business needs to flourish. credit review: Could you be on better credit terms with your suppliers? If you are able to increase payment times, this may help with cashflow, especially if you have a long-standing relationship with them.

If the current economic environment is affecting your business or you think it will in the future the following tips from Mike Melling, owner of TaxAssist Accountants Harpenden may come in handy.

The quick win that any business can focus on has to be cashflow and there are a few elements to consider: credit control: If customers are not paying you for the services or products you have provided then it's time to call in these outstanding payments. If the time period agreed has been exceeded and you have given them fair warning, it may be prudent to consider using a debt recovery service to give them a nudge. Most cases are usually resolved amicably and quickly. invoicing: Ensure you send out invoices promptly! Poor organisation can significantly impact cashflow. One way to increase cashflow and make your pricing more attractive is to offer your clients payment by monthly direct debit. Most banks offer this service if your turnover is high enough, TaxAssist Accountants also offer this facility specifically for small

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The next area to consider is cost-cutting. It's always important to ensure you are receiving the best value for money. The following are necessary costs but ones that could be reviewed: insurance: Most businesses need some form of insurance. Significant savings can be made by shopping around for the best deal. leasing: Do you own your vehicle? Leasing a vehicle could make good business sense in the long term and there are some great deals to be had. If your business uses machinery or equipment then leasing may be beneficial here too.

TaxAssist Accountants is a national network of accountants who are experts in helping small business owners and self employed individuals with their tax and accountancy needs. We service over 42,000 clients and have a wealth of experience in the small business market. We specialise in all businesses with a turnover of £2m or less which means we are right for you.

To find out more contact Mike Melling on 01582 760154 or mikemelling@taxassist.co.uk www.taxassist.co.uk/harpenden see advert on back cover

‘Harpenden House Hotel’ and ‘Harpenden Spotlight on Africa’ are holding a fundraising event with a difference. On the 6th June there will be a handbag auction at the hotel in aid of this amazing Charity. Further information on this event will follow in our June edition. In the meantime, they are looking for donations of handbags – old, new, pre-loved or un-loved. All handbags will be turned into cash with bids starting at only £1. If you have any ‘old bags’ that you no longer want, please drop them off at the hotel for the attention of Carrie Wilson. Alternatively contact Carrie on 07738 097679 and she will arrange to collect locally.

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Midnight Walk This year, the event on 11th May will start and finish for the first time at St Albans Football Club, Clarence Park. There will be a choice of 10 or 5 mile walks around the streets of St Albans starting at 10pm. Men are welcome to join the ladies and are encouraged to wear something pink!

Gillian Barnett, Fundraising and Marketing Director at Grove House said, “Each year the Midnight Walk team are amazed by the array of people who come out and support the charity. From the heavily pregnant, to the people in wheelchairs, the recently bereaved and to those in remission from cancer; all find that the event has a special meaning to them.�

Registration is open to anyone over the age of 10; entry costs ÂŁ17 and includes a t shirt and goody bag, to find out more just visit www.midnightwalk.org

Contact Louise Miller on 01727 731 028 email louise.miller@grove-house.org.uk or for further details visit our website

www.grove-house.org.uk/makeyourwill Registered Charity No 1003462

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the spring fair Hertfordshire Garden Show Knebworth House 4th - 6th May

Why not pop along to Leyton Green on Saturday 11th May between 10am and 2pm, where the Salvation Army will be holding their 3rd annual Spring Fair.

There will be an array of stalls and while you mingle you can enjoy entertainment from local musicians and a light lunch served in the Salvation Army Church.

To book a table, for a donation of just £10 please contact Capt Ralph Walker on 01582 469399.

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This three-day event offers everything for gardeners with over 100 exhibitors including several Hampton Court and Chelsea participants, floral and craft marquees, demonstrations, plus a large range of plants and products on display and for sale.

6th May - Garden Show and Cream Teas Enjoy a cream tea in the Cobbold Barn between 3 - 5pm and see a demonstration from the Gardens Team. Booking is essential. adult £19, child £15 includes entry to the garden show, gardens and park.

26th May - Dino Day Come and be a palaeontologist and follow our special dinosaur trail, meet the Knebworth dinos and claim your prize. £1 per child payable on the day. www.knebworthhouse.com

enjoy your free time and let us do the hard work for you General household and office cleaning Regular or special cleans Moving in / out cleans Landlord/end of tenancy cleans Experienced in elderly or housebound clients Ironing collection/delivery on request Reliable key-holders/proficient in alarm systems Fully insured with public liability cover of ÂŁ2,000,000 Phone for a free quotation 01582 750995 www.merrivac.co.uk 07719 657125 - taking care of your home -

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films for you

Thursday 9th May Anna Karenina cert 12 Atonement director Joe Wright's bold new vision of the classic Russian love story stars Kiera Knightley, Jude Law and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.

Thursday 23rd May Untouchable cert 15 Award winning, emotionally uplifting French subtitled comedy about the unusual friendship between a white middle class quadriplegic and his male black carer. A story of friendship and acceptance.

Thursday 6th June Beasts of the Southern Wild

cert 12

A spectacular, magical film about the effects of Hurricane Katrina on rural New Orleans, and the world of intrepid six year old girl Hushpuppy. A must see film!

Wednesday 19th June Goodbye Lenin! cert 15 Delightful German subtitled comedy When Alex's mother wakes from her coma in 1989 the doctors warn him that any shock could bring on a fatal heart attack.

To safeguard her health he pretends the Berlin Wall has not fallen, and East Germany still exists. What starts as a white lie soon escalates.

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Harpenden Film Society Harpenden Public Halls, 8pm www.harpendenfilmsociety.co.uk members ÂŁ3.50, non-member ÂŁ5

Harpenden Window Cleaning • • • •

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Gutter Vac (Gutters Cleaned)

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entertaining angels enter this years Harpenden in Bloom For entry forms contact 01582 768278 harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk Best Wildlife Photography Deadline 17th May Best Front/Back Gardens Best Communal Garden Best School Garden Best Public House Displays Deadline 3rd June Tallest Sunflower Deadline 10th September www.harpenden.gov.uk/harpenden-in-bloom

by Richard Everett 16th, 17th & 18th May 8pm The Memorial Hall, Marford Road, Wheathampstead For years Grace loyally stood by her husband and played her full part as the wife of the local vicar.

Suddenly finding herself widowed, she initially finds her new found freedom almost liberating until her sister returns from missionary work in Uganda and makes an unexpected confession, forcing Grace to come face to face with her innermost feelings which she has previously never allowed to surface. She finds herself asking if God can be trusted to get anything right or has her life been one long trial with far too many errors?

Richard Everett has produced a multi facetted play which has had audiences laughing and crying at the same time and possibly leaving theatres asking themselves questions about their own approaches to life.

Tickets: Manor Pharmacy, Wheathampstead / Harpenden www.wheathampsteaddramaticsociety.co.uk 07943 903016

Beating the Bounds

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The ancient ceremony of Beating the Bounds will be re-enacted on 5th May at 2pm starting from Kingsbury Watermill in St Michael’s Village, St Albans. The procession, led by the Mayor and officers of the District Council, including the Town Crier, will follow the medieval boundary of the town as defined in 1327. At key points, various dignitaries will be ‘bumped’! It’s free to join the walk, the route is just over 2 miles long and takes around 2.5 hours.

L.C. WESTON FUNERAL DIRECTORS The Only Independent Funeral Directors and Monumental Masons In The Area Personal attention Home arrangements available 14 Leyton Road Harpenden 01582 712865 (24 hours)

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St Albans Charity Cycle Ride Sunday 19th May

Organised by the Rotary clubs of St Albans to raise money for local charities.

The ride starts and finishes at Oaklands College Campus, Hatfield Road and offers the choice of 10, 20, 30 or 40 mile routes.

A free t-shirt, medal and certificate are guaranteed for all pre-registered riders completing the course.

Register on line at www.saccr.co.uk 01727 852260 Twitter @SACCRide Facebook ‘SACCR St Albans Rotary Charity Cycle Ride’

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Harpenden Lions Club Charity Golf Day 17th May Aldwickbury Park Golf Club

Get on your bike for Grove House!

Following the popularity of cycling inspired by Team GB’s successes last summer, Grove House is introducing ‘The Herts Cycle Challenge’ giving local residents the chance to show their cycling skills while raising money to support local families dealing with life-limiting illnesses.

The Challenge will take place on 21st July, starting and finishing at the Old Albanian RFC, St Albans. The event offers two different routes covering 10 or 50 miles and caters for experienced cyclists as well as novices, families and children.

Both routes will take you through the beautiful countryside of Hertfordshire, with plenty of opportunities to refuel and take in the stunning scenery surrounding the local villages. All participants will be awarded a medal and t-shirt on completion.

To register please visit www.hertscyclechallenge.org

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All profits this year will go to ‘Combat Stress’ the UK's leading charity specialising in the treatment and support of British Armed Forces Veterans who have mental health problems.

Cost is £260 per team of four which includes lunch, a Stableford four ball competition and a three course dinner. There are prizes for the winning team and awards for the longest drive, nearest the pin etc.

To enter call 07909 990277 www.harpenden-lions.co.uk/golf www.combatstress.org.uk

urban beach weekend

Verulamium Park in St Albans is one of six venues to gain new beach volleyball courts after the Olympics, made with sand taken directly from Horse Guards Parade and the training courts in St James' Park.

To mark the opening of the courts on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May St Albans City and District Council will be hosting an ‘Urban Beach Weekend’ of free beach activities for the whole community to enjoy including free taster sessions, free tournaments and free coaching with local club coaches. Once the courts are officially open, an extensive programme will be put in place to ensure maximum use. www.stalbans.gov.uk/beach-courts The project will be funded by Sport England and the investment forms part of Volleyball England's grassroots ‘Go Spike’ campaign aimed at

increasing participation in volleyball and beach volleyball by creating more facilities and running free 'come and try' taster sessions across the country.

Lisa Wainwright, Chief Executive of Volleyball England, adds "We are hoping that the buzz around the London 2012 Olympic Games will inspire more people to try out beach volleyball as a fun and exciting new sport, so it's important that we provide accessible facilities to encourage more regular spectators and players. This project will help to create a legacy for volleyball and encourage young people in the St Albans area to adopt healthier, more active lifestyles, creating a sporting habit for life."

To find out more about Volleyball England's ‘Go Spike’ campaign, and volleyball opportunities in your area, please visit www.gospike.net

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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NOW at the Public Halls

Saturday 4th May 7.30pm T’Pau 25th Anniversary Tour See T’Pau the successful pop/rock band fronted by Carol Decker. With a plethora of worldwide hits, including “Heart & Soul”, and “China In Your Hand”, which occupied the number one slot in the UK for five weeks. £18.50

Friday 24th May 7.30pm The Searchers Now celebrating their 50th Anniversary, The Searchers remarkable career continues. With classic hits as Sweets For My Sweet; Needles and Pins and When You Walk In The Room, this concert includes all their famous hits and more. £19

Wednesday 8th May 8pm Richard Herring It’s an object of shame and pride; it inspires laughter and fear; it’s a symbol of power, yet it’s incredibly fragile; it can be a pound of flesh or an ounce of winkles, it can be used to express both love and hate; it creates life and it can do wees as well. How can one tiny flap of sponge and sinew be all these things?

Richard Herring intends to find out in this critically acclaimed show that exposes the truth about men and their flutes of love. £15

Wednesday 29th May 7.30pm Derek Acorah One of the most respected Spiritualist Mediums of a generation. £17.50 Harpenden Public Halls 01582 767525 www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

Friday 10th May 7.30pm Domnic Kirwan Bringing his own inimitable style to rich musical heritage of his homeland, in his brand new show ‘My Ireland’. Throughout a memorable evening spanning Folk, Country and Popular music, he also revisits days of the showband era. Sure to be a hit with lovers of Irish music everywhere. £17.50 Tuesday 21st May 7.30pm Spring Awakening 15-year-old Melchior is chased out of town for acts of hedonistic, lewd and despicable moral character.

Wendla, his 14-year-old love, dies during a tragic abortion thrust upon her by narrow-minded parents.

But Melchior is the brightest boy in school and knows sex is just a natural act that ends in the beauty of childbirth. Crushed by Wendla's death and persecuted by the authorities (and even his own parents) Melchior battles through purgatory where he confronts the ghosts of his past. £12, concs £10

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TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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NOW at the Hawthorne Sunday 19th May 7.30pm A concert of thundering rhythms on huge taiko drums with mysterious masked choreography, inventive lighting, muscular synchronisation and infectious belly laugh humour, all in a spellbinding display of pure energy & sheer athleticism.

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers

Hawthorne Theatre Welwyn Garden City 01707 357 117 Tickets ÂŁ20, concs ÂŁ18 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

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TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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Julia Reading BSC (Hons) MChS, HPC Registered Podiatrist

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points, but they are essentially solitary, or if interactive, participants look at Speech issues are screens, not each increasing amongst other. There are children and the most now television frequent is indistinct screens in enunciation and sparse bedrooms, the vocabulary. Often the kitchen, even the result of immaturity, car, all distracting these should improve children from with time and a focussed broadening of listening. experiences, building So try to make the both vocabulary and most of your time with playing, singing and chatting confidence. your baby, face-toto children is fun and Pronunciation difficulties face contact is crucial. never time wasted are better identified as It's not conversation, but children mature, so although exchanging sounds and chatter substitution of the initial letter sounds of words is which is the start. Babies study your face moving common, as are lisps and stammers, children while listening. Try singing, the tune is grow out of them. However, as you are so tuned in unimportant, just the sounds, the articulation and to your child, it can take an outsider to point out the interaction. If you think you don’t have time, how best to correct mispronunciations early (as remember that playing, singing and chatting to soon as the child can differentiate between the children is precious and fun, and never wasted sounds they hear) rather than let bad habits linger. time.

Mandy Wilkins Research routinely finds that low income families Mandy is head of the Montessori nursery at Beechwood do not have the means to access all available opportunities, but wealthier families do not always Park School, Markyate, near St Albans. She has more than ten years experience in working with help their children’s speech. Frequently travelling and teaching nursery and reception by car, children sit in safety seats, not seeing age children. anybody else’s face or they sit in front-facing

time to talk

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The British Wildlife Photography Awards recognise the talents of photographers practising in Britain, while at the same time highlight the great wealth and diversity of Britain’s natural history.

British Wildlife Photography Awards closing date 4th May

Now in its fifth year, this highly acclaimed and prestigious competition has captivated the nation with outstanding and beautiful imagery. It is a celebration of British wildlife as Redwings by Andrew Parkinson well as a showcase for photographers. The competition is open to everyone from professional photographers to amateurs, young and old.

All images must have been taken in the UK, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands.

In addition to still photography there is a great opportunity to capture wildlife in action and win an amazing prize. Young photographers aged 18 and under may enter the Young Peoples Awards - up to 4 images free.

With a prize fund of £20,000 and £5,000 cash for the overall winner, winners and commended entrants will be notified by mid July and have their work showcased in a national touring exhibition and stunning book. The exhibition will tour various galleries, please see the website for further details www.bwpawards.org

NOW at Dunstable Downs dawn chorus guided walk 5th May 4.30am - 6am Listen to the songbirds singing at the start of a new day. International Dawn Chorus Day is an annual celebration of the world's oldest wake-up call, the dawn chorus and the beauty of bird song.

Join us on the Dunstable Downs and listen to the song birds singing at the start of a new day. Meet at the Chiltern Gateway Centre.

kite competition 18th & 19th May 10.30am - 5pm Come along and watch the fantastic STACK UK Kite Competition. Numerous teams compete against each other in spectacular displays each morning.

And in the afternoons the public can have a go themselves and receive advice and coaching. A Family Fun weekend with craft stalls, fun fair and more.

butterfly walks

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8th & 25th May 11am - 1pm Discover something amazing and join us on these fun and informative guided walks to look for the butterflies that thrive on the rare chalk grassland of Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade.

You might be lucky enough to see the beautiful Chalkhill Blue butterfly flying in the spectacular setting of the Downs. Meet at the Chiltern Gateway Centre. £2 per person, booking advisable.

Dunstable Downs, Chilterns Gateway Centre, Whipsnade Road, Dunstable, Beds LU6 2GY 01582 500920 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstabledowns

DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd We care about your small jobs too! ● Electric and Power Showers Fitted ● Ball Valves and Overflows ● Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and Basins ● Repair/Renew Stopcocks and Taps ● Plumb in Washing Machines

and Dishwashers ● Repair Leaking Pipes ● Outside Taps

Dean Herrington 01727 764217 07830 159010 info@djmplumbing.co.uk www.djmplumbing.co.uk see our main advert on the inside back cover

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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NOW at the British Schools Museum up to 2nd June Exhibition: The Crucible of Fire The Life and Work of Sir Henry Bessemer The story of a local boy made good!

Learn about his remarkable life.

Marvel at the scope of his work. See how his ingenuity changed the world.

6th May 10.30am - 12.30pm May Day Celebrations Maypole and Country Dancing, plus a visit by Offley Morris Men. Free

18th May 10am - 2.30pm Victorian Fete Travel back in time for some oldfashioned fun and games, steam engines, Victorian bicycles and Punch and Judy. ÂŁ3

29th May Make and Play: Games from the Past 10.30am - 2.30pm (last entry 1.30pm). ÂŁ3.50

22nd June The Fair in the Square The Museum moves into the Old Market Square for the annual day of fun, food and fine fare.

41/42 Queen Street Hitchin SG4 9TS 01462 420144 www.hitchinbritishschools.co.uk

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www.humblestreeservices.co.uk

andrew@arlandscapes.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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what’s on in may 40

2nd Rejoice & Sing Concert St Albans Abbey, 01727 860780, in aid of Grove House, 7.30pm 3rd - 6th Kimpton May Festival see page 8 4th T’Pau 25th Anniversary Tour see page 26 4th - 6th Hertfordshire Garden Show see page 18 5th Beating the Bounds see page 22 Dawn Chorus Guided Walk see page 36 7th Harpenden Floral Decoration Club Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, demonstration 'Movies from the Mansion', 2pm 8th & 25th Butterfly Walks see page 36 9th Film: Anna Karenina www.harpendenfilmsociety.co.uk Reginald D Hunter - In the Midst of Crackers The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 8pm 9th & 11th Dido and Aeneas 9th: St Leonard's Church, Sandridge 11th: St John's Church, Harpenden 01582 621603, Purcell's only true opera, presented by St Albans Chamber Opera, 8pm 9th - 12th Living Crafts see page 44 9th - 18th The Cherry Orchard Abbey Theatre, St Albans, 01727 857861, daily 8pm & matinée 2.30pm on 12th May 10th Paws for Tea see 6 10th -12th Nickelodeons Dora The Explorer Live The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, £14 - £18 11th Frithsden Vineyard Open Day Frithsden, Hemel Hempstead, 01442 878 723, wine tastings, vineyard trail & more, 12 - 5pm Spring Fair see page 28 Salvation Army Spring Fair see page 18 Midnight Walk see page 16 Carillon Chamber Choir St Saviour's Church, Sandpit Lane, St Albans, 7.30pm, adult £13, concs £11 1920’s Special Themed Night St Albans Organ Theatre, 320 Camp Road, St Albans 03003 65 65 65, entertainment provided by The New Foxtrot Serenaders, 7.30pm

11th & 12th Stotfold Mill Steam Fair & Country Show Stotfold, Beds, 10.30 - 5pm, adult £6, concs £3 Indoor Market The Old Town Hall, Market Place, St Albans, 9am - 5pm 14th Talk: ‘Wrest Park - 300 years of Garden History’ by Dr Twigs Way, Roundwood Park School, Harpenden Horticultural Society Meeting, 8pm, £3, 01582 761222 www.harpendenhorticulturalsociety.org 16th, 17th & 18th Entertaining Angels see page 22 17th Harpenden Lions Charity Golf Day see page 24 18th Grand Vintage Fair Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street, St Albans, 01582 831481, 10 - 4pm 18th & 19th STACK UK Kite Competition see page 36 19th Wheathampstead 10k / 2k Family Fun Run www.wheathampstead10k.co.uk Art Expo Radlett see page 20 St Albans Charity Cycle Ride see page 24 23rd Film: Untouchable www.harpendenfilmsociety.co.uk Talk: 'Jeux des Fleurs' Harpenden Evening Floral Group, All Saints Church Hall, Station Road, 01582 761277/873196, 7.30pm 24th The Searchers see page 26 Beechwood Park School Open Morning www.beechwoodpark.net 25th Dancemania Abbey Theatre, St Albans, 01727 857861, street dance, hip-hop & breakdance to contemporary & street jazz, 2pm & 8pm 25th & 26th Urban Beach Weekend see page 25 Hertfordshire County Show see page 4 26th Harpenden Farmers Market Lower High Street, 01582 768278, 10 - 2pm 29th The Lumberjacks The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 8pm, £16 30th Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra The Alban Arena, 01727 844488, 7.30pm, £27.50 standing, £34 seated

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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what’s on in june 42

1st June - 15th September Exhibition: Magna Carta 1213: The Journey Starts Here Museum of St Albans, find out how a meeting of barons & clergy in St Albans 800 years ago led to signing Magna Carta 1st The Dark Blues Golden Summer Party Herts Showground, money raised to Iain Rennie Grove House, 8pm - 1am, £25 2nd Wheathampstead Car Boot Sale East Lane Car Park, behind The Bull Pub, 01582 832602, 10 - 1pm Herts Heavy Horse Show Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield, 08456 122122, 10 - 5pm 3rd - 5th Georgian Picnic Party Wrest Park, Beds, 0870 333 1183, www.english-heritage.org.uk 6th Film: Beast of the Southern Wild www.harpendenfilmsociety.co.uk Handbag Auction see page 14 Blooming Marvellous Floral Demonstration, Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 621757, 2pm 8th Harpenden Carnival parade from High Street to Rothamsted Park, 12 noon The Planets St Albans Symphony Orchestra, St Albans Cathedral, 01727 857422, 7.30pm, £12 - £20 Harpenden Art, Craft and Antiques Fayre Methodist Church Hall, Harpenden, 10 - 4pm Concert: Kickin’ the Clouds Away St Nicholas Church, 01582 767836, Children’s Society event, Rufus Frowde & Richard Hill, music for 2 pianos, organ improvisations on request, 7.30pm, £15, includes a glass of fizz & strawberries & cream 9th Harpenden Golf Club Fun Day Redbourn Lane, BBQ & games for children, open to members & visitors, the club is keen to recruit new members, especially junior boys & girls Sir Cliff Richard – Still Reelin’ and a Rockin’ Hatfield House, 0871 220 0260, doors 5.30pm, on stage 8.30pm, £45 - £90 St Albans Half Marathon see page 46 www.stalbanshalfmarathon.co.uk 15th Harpenden Common Discovery Day 01582 463665, 10 - 5pm 15th - 16th Art Exhibition on the Common Harpenden Common, 10am - 5pm (Sat) 11am - 5pm (Sun) free

16th Redbourn in Steam Redbourn Museum, traction engines, model exhibition & train rides, 11am - 5pm Flying Day Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Nr Biggleswade, Beds, 01767 627927, adult £25, child free 19th Film: Goodbye Lenin! www.harpendenfilmsociety.co.uk 22nd & 23rd Alban Weekend Sat: Alban Pilgrimage city centre Sun: Street Party St Peter’s Street St Albans Folk Festival www.stalbansfolkmusic.org.uk 25th - 26th Harpenden Common Walk annual walk around Harpenden Common, 01582 768278, 6.30pm 29th Armed Forces Day Common Triangle, outside the Public Halls, 01582 768278, Veterans Parade, climbing wall & more Welwyn Harmony Summer Fayre Harpenden Methodist Church Hall, cakes, arts & crafts, plants & produce, books, fun competitions & singing, of course! to book a sales table call 01727 764701 or email gill_malin@yahoo.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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the midsummer aquathlon Hertfordshire based Triathlon club, Tri-Force is now accepting entries for the ‘Tri-Force Midsummer Aquathlon’ taking place at Hertfordshire Sports Village, Hatfield on 15th June.

Distances: Pool Swim: 400m Run: 5K Start Time: 5pm A presentation at 6.30pm will be made for: 1st to 3rd - Male and Female / Fastest Veteran - Male and Female / Fastest Junior - Male and Female The 400m swim will be held in the Hertfordshire Sports Village pool and the 5k run will be over the HSV May Triathlon 2013 course providing the perfect blend of enjoyment and competition. This is an ideal event for anyone wanting to try multi sport for the first time without the financial commitment of having to purchase a racing bike. Each entrant has their own individual swim start time based on ability and the 5k run is on a fast and flat course. This makes the event ideal for both beginners and personal best chasers! www.tri-force.org

NOW at Burston Burston Garden Centre is celebrating its 35th Anniversary this year.

We are an independent family run business and our friendly and knowledgeable team take pride in delivering more than just value for money. First class advice and extensive product ranges mean we can provide everything you need for your garden.

While visiting the centre why not stop for a well deserved break in our newly refurbished restaurant.

The restaurant is open daily for breakfasts, snacks, lunches, high teas and much more.

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We are very proud to announce that we have won a number of prestigious Garden Centre Association Awards.

- 6th Best Garden Centre in the Country - Centre of Excellence 2012/13 - Best 'Grow Your Own' Department - GIMA Award Best Garden Product Retailer - Top 3 Bedding and Plant Areas - Best Environment and Community Award

Our newest member to the team is the Burston Gorilla called Boris. At 9 foot he stands very tall, dark and handsome. If you want to get in touch with Boris why not tweet him @Boris_Burston or come in store to visit him, he’s very friendly...

And don’t forget to visit us on 23rd May for our ‘Spring into Summer’ event, with lots of fun for all the family, live music and tasty food to try....see you there!

Indian Food at its finest Planning an evening out with friends, a romantic dinner or Sunday buffet with the family, a warm welcome is always waiting for you here at The Cherry Tree

Large Conservatory for parties up to 50 people A large selection of authentic dishes including fish, duck and vegetarian Sunday Buffet 12 noon - 5pm Adult £8.95 Under 12 £4.95 Opening Hours

Delivery Service Available

Mon - Thurs 5pm - 11.30pm Fri - Sat 5pm - Midnight Sun 12 noon - 11pm

within 3 mile radius minimum order £15

10% Discount on collected orders over £15

The Cherry Tree 261 Lower Luton Road Wheathampstead AL4 8HW 01582 832398 / 832342 www.thecherrytree.co.uk

Fully Licensed and Air Conditioned

Good Food and Good Service Come and enjoy Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi Cuisine Cooked Daily with Fresh Meat, Chicken and Vegetables from Local Suppliers

Special Gourmet Nights £9.95 Tuesdays and Wednesdays

FREE HOME DELIVERY on orders over £10 with 4 mile radius

15% Discount on collected orders over £10 2 Grove Road, Southdown, Harpenden, AL5 1PX

01582 467676 / 469191 Easy Parking Available

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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index of businesses

Accountants Hicks TaxAssist Accountants

15 back cover

Aerial Installations Concorde Aerials Harpenden Digital Services Appliance Repairs / Sales Appliance Refrigeration Leigh Hibon

23 23

Art Classes Creative Space

8

Artificial Grass Grass UK

39

Beauty Lavender & Stone Bicycle Repairs Allied Cycles Cycletech Hertfordshire Blinds Harpenden Blinds Builder David Lewis

Counselling / Sex Therapy Michael Stock DJ Hire Marvel Functions

33 2

Education Love Language

13

Electricians I & B Electrical MLC Electrical Selmon Electrical Services

10 11 11

Kindergarten / Nursery Artisans Kindergarten The Kinsbourne Common Nursery & Pre-school

41 19

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorating N.S. Decorating

17 17 17

Pet Care Personal Petcare Plasterer A. Merson Plastering

24 25

Flooring Creative Wood Flooring LP Flooring

13 13

Funeral Directors LC Weston Funeral Directors

Plumbers DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd Prestige Plumbing & Heating Services

23

Gardening / Landscaping AR Landscapes Ltd Garden Life Landscapes Lanwarne Landscapes

Pond Maintenance Women With Waders

39 42 43

Printer PrintShop

Garden Nursery / Centre Bridge Valley Nursery Burston Garden Centre

2 43 37

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Cabinet Makers Sequoia Bespoke

5

Car Body Repairs Prestige Paint Shop Ltd

27

Car Servicing / Repairs M Chapman Auto Services Ltd Pan Auto Services

Gas K25

27 3

Health & Fitness Harpenden Holistic Health Herts Pilates Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Classes The Fit Lab

16 35

Chiropodist Julia Reading

33

Cleaning Big Yellow Cleaning Company Harpenden Power Wash Merrivac Mobile Maid Services Mollymaid Murray’s Cleaning Services

21 21 19 18 19 21

33 31 30 31

35

Oven Cleaning Ovenmaster

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13

34

Lawn Maintenance Lawn Science

15

15

Children’s Development Classes Gymboree Play & Music

4

Financial Management AMR Financial Management

Business for Sale Extra-Help

Charity Grove House Hospice

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11 10

Computer Repairs Ken Hodson

9 38 37 / 47 37 9 28

Property Maintenance DGS Maintenance Green’s House & Gardens Mr Handyman Nick The Handyman Simply Jobs

7 9 6 7 7

Rubbish Clearance Clear A Waste.co.uk

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Security Maximum Security Systems

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Slimming Lighter Life

29 47

Hearing Services The Hearing Healthcare Practice

32

Tiling Cedar Ceramics

Indian Restaurants Shapla Restaurant The Cherry Tree

45 45

Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Services.co.uk Paul Humbles Tree Services

39 38

Tyre Fitting Big D’s Tyres

26

Window Cleaner Harpenden Window Cleaning

21

Interior Furnishers Michelle Reid Interiors

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

DJ&M PLUMBING SERVICES LTD ●

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Complete Bathroom, Cloakroom and Shower Installations

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Local Family Run Business, Over 30 Years Experience

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Honest and Reliable Service Free Consultation/ Quotation for all Enquiries

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Tiling Plastering Electrical

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Discounts On All Bathrooms Supplied

Electric and Power Showers Ball Valves and Overflows Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and Basins Repair/Renew Stopcocks and Taps Plumb in Washing Machines and Dishwashers Repair Leaking Pipes Outside Taps

Dean Herrington 07830 159010 info@djmplumbing.co.uk

01727 764217 www.djmplumbing.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT 07983 588313 or wendy@harpendennow.com

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