st albans NOW March 18

st albans March 2018

NOW WIN

Easter Fun Lambing Weekend

Dinner at

Fit for Life

Out & About NOW for some Music NOW at the Local Theatres

What’s on & lots more

promoting local businesses, organisations and events since 2006

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To Adv

NOW at the Alban Arena

Welcome to March

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music, comedy & auditions

Spring is nearly here, and it’s so lovely to see the daffodils poking their heads up! To celebrate we’ve got a great offer from Bills; a chance to win Dinner for Two in their newly refurbished restaurant in St Albans.

Last month brought us the Winter Olympics, with some fantastic medals won by Team GB, how can we not be insprired by them and also by Jordans’ story on page 4.

So whatever you fancy doing we’ve included a number of choices this month, from cycling around London and the Muddy Mayhem to tracking down the elusive March Hares and Water Vole Monitoring! Challenge yourself to trying something new, as the 18th century politician, William Cobbett said “You never know what you can do till you try”.

And don’t forget if there’s something you need or want doing, have a look through the magazine to see if some of our local businesses can help.

Jane & Wendy 07983 588291 jane@theNOWmagazines.com www.theNOWmagazines.com

NOW for some Music

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rock, classic & folk

Do Something for Charity 16 thinking of others

Fit for Life! 18 get active this month

NOW for some Nature 20 talks, walks & workshops

Easter Fun & More 24 for all the family

NOW at the Local Theatres 28 drama for everyone

Out of Town 30 exhibitions, talks & more

Live Cinema WGC 32 opera & Shakespeare

Out & About 36 walks, talks & birdwatching

What’s on in March 42 & April 44 Index of Businesses 46

To be in the April editions just email jane@theNOWmagazines.com

aerials to Womens Institute

Deadline: 10th March

WIN Dinner at

restaurant in St Albans has been transformed, and to celebrate they are offering one lucky couple the chance to enjoy a complimentary dinner for two.

The restaurant still offers the same welcoming atmosphere and fresh seasonal British food, but with a great new menu, including an expanded weekend brunch menu, a sharing supper served from 5-9pm perfect for groups and families.

Evenings will see Bill’s become a must-visit venue for dinner and drinks. With a new seated bar area and exclusive bar menu, enjoy drinks and nibbles before hitting the town, or settle in for an evening of classic cocktails and snacks with friends.

For your chance to win simply email BILLS to wendy@theNOWmagazines.com by 17th March Open: Mon - Thurs: 8am - 10.30pm Fri - Sat: 8am - 11pm, Sun: 9am - 10.30pm Bill’s, 2 Chequer Street, St Albans AL1 3XZ www.bills-website.co.uk T&C - One prize available: Dinner for two including drinks up to the value of £100. Must be pre-booked in advance. There is no cash alternative to this prize and it is non-transferrable. Prize must be used by 30th April and excludes Mother’s Day.

To Advertise: 07983 588291 jane@theNOWmagazines.com

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NOW at the Alban Arena Mountain Film Festival 1st March 7.30pm An evening of short films, following expeditions of some of today’s most incredible adventurers, see footage of adrenaline packed action sports and be inspired by thought-provoking pieces shot from the far flung corners of the globe.

Jimmy Osmond: Moon River & Me 2nd March 7.30pm Andy Williams tribute show starring Jimmy Osmond, with songs that made Williams so loved by millions including Music To Watch Girls By, Happy Heart, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, May Each Day and, of course Moon River.

Odyssey & Heatwave 3rd March 8pm An evening of live, non-stop, dance floor anthems. Heatwave present the definitive boogie night with spine-tingling falsettos on Mind Blowing Decisions, Always and Forever and Too Hot to Handle. While Odyssey take us back to our roots with Native New Yorker and If You’re Looking for a Way Out. Auditions: Beauty & the Beast 4th March Ages 7-11: 10.30am - 1pm (registration from 10am) Ages 12-18: 1.30pm - 4pm (registration from 1pm) Run as a workshop with singing, dancing and acting, no need to prepare anything.

The Wizard of Oz 8th - 10th March 7.30pm Sat: 2.30pm & 7.30pm With Rare Productions Youth Theatre Group Elkie Brooks 11th March 7.30pm Performing her biggest hits including Pearl’s

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A Singer, Lilac Wine, Fool (If You think It’s Over), Don’t Cry Out Loud and No More The Fool.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 13th March 8pm Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member, Mick Fleetwood, this is ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups.

Jonathan Pie 14th March 7.30pm Pie hosts a night of serious discussions on current affairs, join him for a night of political comedy that will soon descends into chaos.

Paul Chowdhry 15th & 16th March 8pm Comedy powerhouse and star of Taskmaster, Live at The Apollo and Stand Up for the Week, Chowdhry brings us his new stand-up show.

Hertfordshire Wedding Fair 18th March 11am - 4pm With over 70 quality exhibitors plus two professional fashion shows.

The Sensational 60s Experience 23rd March 7.30pm Without doubt the most explosive 60s show touring the UK. Dr John Cooper Clarke 24th March 8pm A mix of classic verse, extraordinary new material, hilarious ponderings on modern life, good honest gags, riffs and chat, witness a living legend at the top of this game.

Peppa Pig’s Adventure 30th March 4pm 31st March 10am, 1pm & 4pm Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with her school friends, and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of games, laughter and live music!

The Alban Arena AL1 3LD 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk

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NOW at the Cathedral Talk: Shakespeare’s Women 1st March 8pm, £10 Women play a small but significant part in Shakespeare’s plays. By studying some of our favourite female characters, we find insights into the social and moral importance of women in Shakespearean drama and how they affect and are affected by the male characters.

Russian Choral Masterworks: Joint Schools’ Choral Society 7th March 7.30pm St Albans School and St Albans High School for Girls join leading baritone Matthew Stiff, to perform a series of powerful Franco-Russian choral masterworks.

Exhibition: Museums and Galleries Trust Young People’s Photographic Competition 10th - 17th March St Albans Camera Club hosts its photographic competition, open to students studying at local schools and colleges, this exhibition will display all submitted images.

Lunchtime Organ Recital 14th March 12.30pm Short recital given by Charles Andrews. Free Talk: Revelations of Divine Love 15th March 8pm £5 On her death bed, Julian of Norwich, a 14th century Christian mystic, experienced 16 mystical visions. Performed by the Julian of Norwich Theatre Company, blending music and dance to explore her visions.

St Albans Bach Choir - St John Passion 17th March 7.30pm Written for a small congregation in Germany 300 hundred years ago, this is a testimony to the power of music to transcend time and place.

The Liturina Ensemble 24th March 7.30pm Performance of classical, period Chamber Music by some of the greatest English and Italian composers.

Tower Tours 24th March 10am,11.30am,1pm, 2.30pm 25th March 2pm, 3.15pm, 4.30pm Taking you to the top of the Norman Bell Tower via the north transept gallery, the ringing and bell chambers, before a final climb out onto the roof, please book, £9.50. www.stalbanscathedral.org

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NOW for some Music UHArts Fantastic Pictures 25th March Artist and illustrator James Mayhew explores a fantastic symphony with the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra.

Concs £20, £15, child £8, student £6 UHArts, Weston Auditorium, Hatfield AL10 9EU www.herts.ac.uk

Maltings Arts Theatre The Daria Kulesh Quartet, Ben Moss & Bow by Bow 2nd March 8pm With strong Russian and Ingush heritage, Daria Kulesh is unique on the folk scene, with a mix of instruments, cultures and innovative arrangements and dramatic story-telling. Ben Moss sings both traditional and original songs and plays the fiddle, the melodeon, concertina and bouzouki. Bow by Bow have been busking on Oxford’s streets for five years, playing traditional English, Scottish, Irish and Breton tunes on the fiddle and cello. £12 / £11 / £7.50 Company of Players 23rd & 24th March 8pm An evening of Shakespeare and song, with award-winning folk group the Company of Players, a ten-piece, multi-instrument group celebrating Shakespeare’s works through the creation of original music, inspired by the words of Shakespeare. £12 / £7.50 Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans AL1 3HL www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk

St Albans Symphony Orchestra 10th March 7.30pm Vaughan-Williams: Five Variants of Dives and Lazarus Dvorak: Serenade for Winds Dvorak: Symphony No7 £16, £11, concs £5 & £1 St Saviour’s Church, Sandpit Lane AL1 4DF 07976 800445 tickets@saso.org.uk www.ticketsource.co.uk

St Albans Organ Theatre Len Rawle M.B.E. Concert 10th March 7.30pm Musical Sunday Afternoons 11th March & 8th April 2.30pm - 4.30pm Richard Hills F.R.C.O Concert 14th April 7.30pm www.stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk

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Hardynge Choir 17th March 7.30pm High Street Methodist Church, Harpenden Featuring the Stabat Mater by Haydn, taken from a thirteenth century anonymous poem, and Seven Last Words which Haydn considered to be one of his greatest works. In between these two works the choir and soloists will sing the Mass in G, D167 by Schubert an astonishingly great work by the eighteen-year-old Schubert.

The Paean Orchestra will be conducted by Musical Director Rufus Frowde Charlotte-Anne Shipley: Soprano Kate Symonds-Joy: Contralto Graham Neal: Tenor John Holland-Avery: Baritone Adult £14, students £7, child free 0845 475 1664 tickets@hardyngechoir.org www.hardyngechoir.org The Horn The Smyths 18th March 7.30pm The best tribute to one of the UKs most important bands. The Smiths band of Smiths fans for Smiths fans playing all the hits.

Guns 2 Roses 31st March 9pm £12 Playing together since 2002 and approved by members of Guns N Roses as their number one tribute band in the country, they even have the original GNR drummer Steven Adler playing with them sometimes!

The Horn, St Albans AL1 3TE www.thehorn.co.uk

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£50 off 3D Lipo Ultimate

Time With Mum Saturday Stories 10th March 11am - 12 noon Come and enjoy some lovely stories to celebrate Mothers Day with your Mum. Ages up to 8, suggested donation £1 No need to book but spaces are limited.

Harpenden Library AL5 2RU

Vintage Tea Party 11th March 12 noon & 2.30pm Celebrate Mothers day with your Mum with a cream tea in the iconic Victorian Mansion while relaxing to the sounds of a bygone era with vocalist, Alison Carter. Adult £25, child £10 Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB www.bletchleypark.org.uk

Sunday Afternoon Tea 11th March 12 noon, 1pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm & 4.30pm On Mothers Day show Mum how much you love her by treating her to afternoon tea and a glass of sparkling wine in the historic Manor Restaurant. Adult £25, child £10 Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk

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Come and Join Kingsbury WI Make Some New Friends We meet every 3rd Tuesday 9.45am - 12 noon Dagnall Street Baptist Church Hall Excellent Speakers Walking Group Book Group and Scrabble For more information please call Pat Legerton on 01727 822157

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Overhaul Your Lawn

small areas, drive a garden fork into the lawn every 4-6 inches, then ease the handle back and forth to enlarge the holes.

Then, mix some sieved garden soil with horticultural sand (about one-part soil/loam to nine parts sand) and brush across the lawn into the holes you’ve made. The result is a drainage system in the compacted areas.

It has rained so much in recent months that lawns have taken a battering. Over-wet conditions can cause roots to die off and will reduce oxygen in the soil. Worse still, any areas of the lawn you’ve walked on will have become compacted. Meaning the air spaces in the soil are reduced, and the heavier the soil is, the worse the problem is likely to be. So, if you want lovely green grass that’s ready for summer, it’s time to get to work.

If your grass needs cutting, make sure you don’t set the blades on the mower too low for the first few cuts, as this weakens growth and makes weed invasion more likely.

After mowing, you can relieve some of the soil compaction to allow air down to the roots. For

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If the soil is quite heavy or contains a lot of clay, the whole lawn will benefit from aerating. Use a ‘hollow-time aerator’, either a hand operated one, a machine or a mower attachment. This cuts cylinders of soil and when filled with the soil/sand mix will result in longer-lasting drainage channels.

Any moss should be removed, so apply moss killer and then rake it out. The lawn will look worse initially, but it allows more air to the roots of the grass, giving them more space to grow.

Lawns that have suffered from waterlogging benefit from feeding. Choose a spring lawn food (granular or liquid), which will be formulated to give the balance of nutrients needed now.

Granular feeds must be watered in unless it rains shortly after application. To repair bald or thin patches, roughen up the areas with a rake and sprinkle on a suitable seed mix. Once all the work is done, keep off your lawn for a few weeks to allow it to take advantage of all that TLC.

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Do Something for Charity

The Hospice of St Francis There’s a number of great fundraisers planned this year, what will you choose?

Brighton Marathon 15th April If running’s your thing, why not take a trip to the seaside, the Hospice has a number of places available for this event.

Rennie Grove Flower Arranging Workshop 19th March 2.30pm - 4.30pm Following a demonstration, you will be given the chance to design and make your own decorative table centre piece, ideal for Easter. £35 includes container, flowers, candle and refreshments, please bring secateurs.

To book call 01727 731010 Grove House, St Albans AL3 5QX www.renniegrove.org

Bubble Rush Herts 29th April Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead Everyone from tots to teens and grownups to grandparents can enjoy the masses of multi-coloured pink, yellow, green and blue foamy bubble stations on the 5km bubble-filled fun run route whilst raising funds for local Hospice care.

Fran Martin, Senior Events Manager said, “We want to get 2,500 people enjoying the thrill of the bubbles this year and, if everyone raises, just £10 a kilometre, we’ll smash our fundraising target, raising over £125,000 to support local people living with a life-limiting illness!”

Cycling Day or Night?

If you fancy taking on a cycling challenge this summer, the Hospice are looking for people to saddle up for two of London’s most iconic cycling events.

Nightrider on 9th & 10th June the chance to explore the capital by bike at night, or the Prudential Ride LondonSurrey 100 on the 29th July starts in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and follows a 100-mile cycling route through London and into Surrey’s stunning countryside.

If you think you can go the distance and want to raise money for the Hospice, contact claire.jones@stfrancis.org.uk www.stfrancis.org.uk

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UK registered charity no 297489

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Fit for Life!

Sport Relief Challenge

Local Paralympian Wins Talisker Challenge Phenomenal Paralympian, St Albans Army Veteran, Jordan Beecher and teammate Jon Armstrong have just won the pairs entry of the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge. The pair rowed 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean with only three legs between them! Not only did they win, but they smashed the world record!

Jordan lost his leg in 2012, on his third deployment in Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device blew it off 12cm below the knee. He has since won four Invictus Games gold medals, trained with the GB rowing team and competed in the Henley Royal Regatta. They aim to raise £100k for Blesma The Limbless Veterans, which supported Jordan after the injury, Dreamflight, the sick children’s holiday charity and the Gurkha Brigade Association.

If you’d like to donate please visit uk.virginmoneygiving. com/Team/row2recovery

Five Miles to Fabulous 10th March 9.30am South Herts Cyclists women only ‘Five Miles to Fabulous’ rides are back after their winter break, celebrating with a ride on International Women’s Day. Starting at Morrisons, Hatfield Road, St Albans, near the cycle stands. It will be a five to ten mile loop with a coffee stop, at an easy pace using traffic free routes and quieter roads.

For regular riders there’s a ‘further faster’ ride going 15 to 20 miles. Any type of bicycle is fine, but before you go please check it over and make sure the tyres are pumped up and the brakes work. www.southhertsctc.org.uk

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Be part of an epic national challenge to beat one billion steps a day, every day from 17th - 23rd March with the Sport Relief app. To make your steps count just decide how you want to take part: Set a Step Target Whether it’s 10km per day or Paris to London, get sponsored to step on your own or as part of a team Compete with Others Set up a league and have a step off with friends or colleagues with a prize for the winner Join a Challenge Get sponsored to take on one of the celebrity challenges in the app either as an individual or as part of a team How Far Will You Go: Step as a Team Paris to London: 623,040 steps / 475km Edinburgh to London: 1,056,430 steps / 805km John O Groats to Lands’ End: 2,112,860 steps / 1610km Step it Solo Climb Kilimanjaro: 58,750 steps / 47km Don’t delay download the app from the app store and start raising money for a very worthwhile cause www.sportrelief.com

SPECIAL OFFER FOR FIRST CLASS BRING A FRIEND FOR ONLY £5!

SUNDAYS AT 10.30-11.30AM - STARTING 4 MARCH 2018 A fusion of aerial arts, traditional yoga and pilates, aerial yoga helps you work with gravity to increase flexibility, mobility and strength.

Suitable for beginners, from ages 18 and up £15 per class Only nine places available!

To book your place, email ali@stalbanstrapeze.co.uk or text 07885 859130 The Grove Junior School 10 Dark Lane, Harpenden AL5 1QA WWW.STALBANSTRAPEZE.CO.UK

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NOW for Some Nature Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust Talk: Gardening for Wildlife 1st March 7.30pm - 9pm An introduction to the local conservation work of HMWT with Reserves Officer Rob Hopkins on how you can help wildlife by planting for pollinators, creating habitats and increasing the visitors to your garden. Suitable for both beginners and more experienced gardeners.

For adults and older children.

Jersey Farm Community Centre AL4 9RG March Hares and More 11th March 10am - 12 noon A trip to see the elusive March hare, join the Mid Herts Local Group for a trip to Monks Green, a wildlife friendly farm set in wonderful countryside.

Please book: davies481@gmail.com Monks Green Farm, Hertford SG13 8QL Easy Access Oak Walk 14th March 10.30am - 12 noon Join volunteer David Neal, for a short walk from Panshanger House around the ‘Great Oak’, taking in the Orangery and views over Repton's landscape, as you find out about the local area and the families who lived here.

Panshanger Park, Nr Welwyn SG14 2WN Pruning Workshop 24th March 9.45am - 3.30pm Learn to prune fruit trees, with the Orchards East Project, a collaborative project working with county orchard groups to encourage new volunteers in all things orchard. Open to people with some understanding of pruning apple and pear trees.

Free, please book: gen@orchardseast.org.uk Tewin Orchard Nature Reserve AL6 0LY Beginners Water Vole Monitoring and Surveying Training 31st March 10am - 1pm Learn to complete a water vole survey and spot signs of them, they are Britain's fastest declining

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wild mammal and have now disappeared from many parts of the country. HMWT are working hard to save the water vole by improving riverbank habitats, controlling mink and being involved in water vole reintroduction schemes. Volunteers are needed to help with monitoring populations. Spaces are limited, please only apply if you’re interested in becoming a water vole surveyor.

Tewinbury, Hertford AL6 0JB www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

Heartwood Forest Final Planting Session 11th March 10am - 3pm Under 16s to be accompanied by an adult Bring a spade if possible Final Tree Ceremony 25th March 12.30pm - 3pm Celebrate 10 years of hard work and happiness at this amazing woodland. Witness the final tree being planted, visit the exhibition and more.

Want to get involved at Heartwood?

Volunteer to help with hedge laying, general maintenance and other important tasks.

Check out the Woodland Trust volunteering opportunities for more information. And if you’d like to support Heartwood Forest with a donation, please consider their appeal.

For parking use post code AL4 9DQ www.heartwood.woodlandtrust.org.uk

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before

after

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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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Easter Fun & More Harpenden Easter Egg Hunt 30th March 1pm - 4pm Come and hunt for eggs and meet the Easter bunny.

There’ll be candy floss, face painting, glitter tattoos, a cafe and raffle. Hosted by the Friends of Harpenden Academy. All ages £5, includes Easter egg and craft activities.

Harpenden Cricket Club, Harpenden Common AL5 1DT

Easter Trail Easter Hunt 31st March 10am - 12 noon Collect tokens scattered through the woods and exchange them for a chocolate treat.

All ages, dress for muddy paths.

50p all proceeds go to the Woodland Trust Wick Wood, Marshals Drive AL1 4RE

Easter Adventure Quest

30th & 31st March 11am - 5pm Follow the trail symbols around the Gardens and Dinosaur Trail and complete the quiz sheet to claim your Easter reward. £1 (in addition to admission price) You can also explore the Maze, have fun at the Adventure Playground with astro slide, drop slide, zip wire and the splash water play features. Or maybe just enjoy the spring flowers and visit the Gift shop and Tea Room.

Knebworth House SG1 2AX www.knebworthhouse.com

30th March - 2nd April 11am-5pm Calling all valiant adventurers this Easter weekend to join in the hunt for legendary dragon eggs. Set off with an intrepid character from the past to crack the clues and claim your chocolate reward. £1 plus entry cost Adult £10.90, concs £9.80, child £7.50 Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HR www.english-heritage.org.uk

Hatfield House

Easter Egg Hunt

Dogs and Daffs Charity Walk 25th March 9.30am - 4pm Banish those winter blues and put your best foot forward. Register your pooch, stroll the beautiful grounds of Hatfield Park, and enter your hound in the fun dog show. Register from 9am, each category is £2 to enter, and you can enter as many of the 10 categories as you like. Proceeds go to Digswell Place Group Riding for the Disabled Association. www.hatfield-house.co.uk www.dogsanddaffs.weebly.com

30th March - 2nd April 11am - 4pm On this trail discover the science of plants and learn why the Victorians were so fascinated by them. Follow the clues to claim your chocolate prize. £2.50 per trail Claydon House, Bucks MK18 2EY www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claydon

Eggciting Easter 30th March - 2nd April 10am - 5pm Join in fun family crafts and activities, with an Easter hunt around the Museum. Discover the origins of Easter traditions and customs. Dress up in decorated bonnets - take a selfie and send it to the Museums Facebook page!

Chiltern Open Air Museum Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk

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Garden Open for Charity 24th March 11am - 5pm As part of the National Gardens Scheme, you can enjoy the spring bulbs in the lime walk, sundial garden and view the famous Old Palace garden, childhood home of Elizabeth I. The woodland garden is at its best in spring with masses of daffodils and bluebells.

Beautifully designed gifts, jewellery, toys and more can be found in the Stable Yard shops or just relax at the Coach House Restaurant. Adult £6, child free

The Clock Tower Open 30th March - Sept The clock tower and its fine bell is the only surviving medieval tower in England and has survived over 600 years of use. There are 93 steps to climb to the top, but the view over the City and the surrounding countryside is breath-taking, and definitely worth the climb.

Adult £1, child free

Easter Eggstravaganza 24th March - 15th April Choc-o-bloc family fun with the Easter Bunny, Easter Egg and Bunny Hunts and chocolate prizes.

Plus adventure play and farmyard fun with all the animals including chicks and bunnies, the usual shows, fun fair rides, inflatables, tractor rides, acres of outdoor and under cover activities and Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground. Promising a fun packed day out for all the family.

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

The Amazing Bubble Man

British Science Week 12th - 17th March 11am - 3pm This year’s British Science Week is dedicated to the physics of flight. Why not go along and get involved with one of the free workshops.

Ages 6 -12, free RAF Museum London NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk

31st March 11.30am & 2pm £12 Louis Pearl, the Amazing Bubble Man brings us his unique show, with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. He explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep you mesmerised. From square bubbles, fog and helium bubbles, giant bubbles, volcanoes, tornados and trampolines to people inside bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.

Hertford Theatre SG14 1PS www.hertfordtheatre.com

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt 30th March - 2nd April 10am - 4pm Tumble down the rabbit hole and learn about animals that have lived at Ashridge throughout the ages and get a chocolate prize at the end. £5, just ‘hop’ in between 10am - 4pm Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berkhamsted HP4 1LP www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge

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Easter Workshops Gymboree Play & Music St Albans is pleased to add another award winning class to their curriculum this Easter! This drama, dancing and singing based workshop will challenge children who wish to expand their interests. Due to the nature of this drop-off class children will need to be between 3-6 years old.

In both Key Stages 1 and 2 of the UK Schools' National Curriculum, music, dance and drama are seen as a way to develop control, coordination, poise, expression of feelings, expression of moods, expression of ideas and response to music. Gymboree Play & Music St Albans Theatre Arts workshops develops all of these important skills and in doing so promotes independence and school readiness. The workshop itself will have elements of Art, Music, Drama and equipment-based learning throughout.

performance day, parents, friends and family are invited to come along and watch.

“Absolutely fantastic classes, the children made all the sets, props/costumes, and learned the songs. My daughter loved every minute (and was exhausted each day!) I can't recommend it highly enough, and it really helped break up the days for me (I went and worked in the Courtyard Cafe next door)”.

“Eliza absolutely loved it, came home every day very excited about what she had done that day! I would recommend it.”

Spaces are limited so please book in advance.

For more information please contact: stalbans@gymboreeclasses.co.uk 01727 831551

Week One: Pirate Adventure: Tues 3rd April - Fri 6th April Week Two: Farmyard Fun: The 4-day workshop builds each child’s confidence, and offers a short performance at the Tues 10th April - Fri 13th April end of the week. The class is one hour and Times: fifteen minutes long and held at their beautiful Tues 12.30pm - 1.45pm, Weds 3pm - 4.15pm, permanent site in St Albans city centre. For the Thurs 12.30pm - 1.45pm, Fri 11.15am - 12.30pm

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NOW at the Local Theatres Old Time Music Hall 2nd & 3rd, 8th - 10th March A performance by the Kimpton Players, a thriving amateur dramatic group who have raised thousands for good causes. They also have an energetic youth section, the Junior Kimpton Players, and are always looking for new members from 11 years and over to cover all aspects of putting on a show from acting to painting scenery.

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

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

Abbey Theatre My Fear vs The World by Ian Jordan 8th & 9th March 8pm This production by the Company of Teens explores many of the fears, both big and small, that young people face today. As you travel through the different stages of life, you meet a range of characters and an even greater host of fears.

This piece that asks questions about our fears as we grow up.

Maltings Arts Theatre The Deep Blue Sea 8th - 10th & 15th - 17th March 8pm It’s 1952, and Hester Collyer is found by her neighbours in a flat in Ladbroke Grove after a failed suicide attempt, the story of her affair with a former RAF pilot and the breakdown of her marriage to a High Court judge emerges. With it comes a portrait of need, loneliness and long-repressed passion. £12 / £11 / £7.50 Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans AL1 3HL www.maltingsartstheatre.co.uk

The Sandpit Theatre The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde 8th & 9th March 3pm & 7.30pm Thrilling production of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde brought to you by Blackeyed Theatre Company. £12/£10 Chemistry Show 13th March 6pm Part of National Science Week, enjoy this explosive showcase of science. Ages 6 -11, £1 Oliver the Musical 24th March 2.30pm & 6.30pm Performed by West Herts Musical Theatre. £10/£8 The Sandpit Theatre, St Albans AL4 9NX www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Barn Theatre

Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss 21st - 24th March 7.30pm 24th: 2.30pm & 7.30pm St Albans Chamber Opera presents this comedy of confused relationships and mixed identities, Die Fledermaus, or the Revenge of the Bat. The production is full of memorable tunes, including the Champagne Chorus, Brother Mine, the Laughing Song, The Czardas and many more.

Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

Let the Right One In 23rd - 31st March A chilling vampire myth telling the story of Oskar, a lonely, bullied teenager, and Eli the troubled girl who moves in next door. The pair become firm friends. When a series of brutal killings take place, the shocking truth about Eli tests Oskar’s loyalty and love beyond all imaginable limits in this chilling tale of loneliness, love and legend. Not for the fainthearted, strong language and lots of blood! £13 Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST www.barntheatre.co.uk

The Radlett Centre

UHArts

Cats 6th - 10th March 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm Musical based on T S Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, presented by Radlett Musical Theatre Company. Feline fun for all ages.

The Radlett Centre WD7 8HL www.radlettcentre.co.uk

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Bringing Arts Alive in Hatfield 24th March 7pm An exciting performance supported by various arts organisations, schools and professional creative practitioners . Adult £6, concs £4, child free Weston Auditorium, Hatfield AL10 9EU www.herts.ac.uk

Get Ready to Rock A brand new rock school is being launched this month, but the founder is not Jack Black!

Classically trained musician Angela Han is behind the schools in St Albans, Harpenden and Hatfield, which will teach 7-18-yearolds how to sing, play drums, guitar, bass and perform in a rock band.

Angela explained that she wanted to inspire young people to take up music by making the school fun and relevant. “I feel it is important that every child has a strong musical foundation in their lives, I learned piano and violin when I grew up in China and taught music while living in the USA and taught my son how to play both instruments.

Moving to England, I wanted to help bring music into the lives of more young people which is the motivation behind The Rock Project.”

During the two-hour classes, students will learn all types of popular music from rock classics to contemporary chart-topping favourites, tutored by professional musicians. “All the tutors are musicians who play in bands, so they have that blend of musical skills and performance,” Angela said. “This combination will help the students grow in confidence as well as developing their musical skills. The students learn to play in front of their tutor, their band mates, and finally we will have a big end of year rock concert!”

There’s already interest in the school with a number of students signed up for each school.

The schools will be divided into juniors, for 7-11 year olds, and seniors aged 12-18. One half of each two-hour session involves the students being tutored in their chosen instrument, while in the second part they put what they’ve learnt into practice to come together and play as a band.

The sessions will be held on Mondays at St Philip Howard Primary School, Hatfield, Tuesdays at Camp School, St Albans, Wednesdays at Roundwood Park School Harpenden and at Wheatfields Infant School, St Albans on Thursdays.

For more information contact Angela Han or Andy Collins on 07340 688525 or email herts@therockproject.com www.TheRockProject.com

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Out of Town Bletchley Park 1940’s Boutique, Vintage Hair and Make-up Workshop 3rd March 10am - 3.30pm Expert vintage hair and make-up artist Sarah Dunn will show you how to recreate an iconic style of the 1940s in full, from victory rolls and glamorous curls through to the perfect red lipstick. Learn the history behind the style and pick up practical tips to help you achieve a great vintage look. £70 Exhibition: Hut 11A: The Bombe Breakthrough 24th March - 1st March 2020 9.30am Tells the story of the Bombe machines in the actual location that housed the machines which broke Enigma and explains the challenges posed by Enigma and shows how Alan Turing and others devised a machine to solve it. Some of the documents in the exhibition have never been seen by the public before. Free Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB www.bletchleypark.org.uk

Shuttleworth Collection Flying the DH88 Comet 3rd March 10am The chief pilot will explore the process Shuttleworth went through to assess the risks of operating this aircraft from Old Warden aerodrome. A tour of the House will precede the talk, followed by a tour of The Collection including Q&A. Age 14+ £55, includes light lunch

Knebworth House Muddy Mayhem 5k Obstacle Run 17th March Have fun with friends and family as you run, jog, clamber, crawl and climb around the route set in this scenic Park. This mudtastic event is raising money for Garden House Hospice, which provides a wide range of services for patients, their carers and families facing a life limiting illness. Last year over 700 runners raised £55k for hospice care, this years target is to beat that.

Team of 4 adults £80, Adult £25, Youth (14-17 yrs, must run with a participating adult) £17 Sign up now to guarantee your space.

Knebworth House SG1 2AX www.knebworthhouse.com

Waddesdon Manor Events 21st March - 28th October Talk: Meet the Aviary Keeper Weds - Fri 2pm free Learn about the exotic collection of rare and endangered birds at Waddesdon and the important conservation work of this registered zoo. Restored in 2003, examine the intricate detailing of this 19th century Aviary. Join the birds up close at feeding time and meet the famous Rothschild Mynahs. With experts on hand to answer questions.

Glorious Years: French Calendars from Louis XIV to the Revolution Weds - Sun 12pm - 4pm Free with house and grounds admission A celebration of the power of the printed image Workshop: Easter Floristry before photography. An exhibition of rare calendars 24th March 10am -12.30pm published in Paris in the 17th and 18th centuries, Led by advanced Floristry students from Shuttleworth from their golden period under Louis XIV through to College, learn how to create an arrangement for your the Revolution, when time itself was re-invented, with Easter table, or a hand-crafted gift. Age 16+ £25, new ways of illustrating and naming the days and includes all materials and refreshments years.

The Shuttleworth Collection, Beds SG18 9EP Talk: The History of Rothschild Wine www.shuttleworth.org Weds - Sun & bank hols 11.30am & 2pm free Talks are conducted by expert house guides, who will Ashridge take you on a journey through the history of over Exhibition: Voices 3rd March - Feb 2019 15,000 bottles of wine in the cellars, dating back to Celebrating the centenary of women’s suffrage 1868. Explore the cellars afterwards, and the guides in 1918 showcasing some of Ashridge’s most will be available to answer questions. influential women. Free Ashridge Visitor Centre, Berkhamsted HP4 1LP Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury HP18 0JH www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge www.waddesdon.org.uk

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NOW for Some Art Exhibition: British Wildlife Photography Awards until 25th March 10am - 4pm free This highly acclaimed event captivates visitors with outstanding beautiful imagery. It’s a celebration of British wildlife, as well as a showcase for the country’s leading nature photographers.

Stockwood Discovery Centre, Luton LU1 4LX www.bwpawards.org

Exhibition: AlbanArt - A Year in the Life of St Albans Arts Team 1st March - 30th April St Albans Arts Team are part of 1Life and deliver arts events and projects on behalf of St Albans City & District Council. Over the year they are responsible for programming live music and street theatre artists at major events including the Alban Street Festival, the Food & Drink Festival, St Albans Christmas Market and the St Albans Christmas Launch. They also manage the popular Larks in the Parks and IOFringe events as well as organising participatory community projects. This outdoor photography exhibition is a snapshot of their last year, and will be on the railings adjacent to The Fighting Cocks pub, and in Verulamium Park, St Albans.

Calling All Young Photographers Closing Date: 29th March Children and young people in St Albans, Harpenden and the surrounding areas are invited to take part in “Living St Albans”, a photography competition showcasing sustainability throughout the district. Prizes include £100 for the winner of each age category, plus prizes for the best combined entry (e.g. a photo montage) from a school, year, class, or youth group.

Themes for submissions: Health and Happiness  Equity and Local Economy  Culture and Community  Land and Nature  Sustainable Water  Local and Sustainable Food  Materials and Products  Travel and Transport  Zero Waste  Zero Carbon Entry forms from www.sustweek18photocomp.co.uk

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Live Cinema WGC The Royal Opera House Live: Carmen 6th March 6.45pm Carmen, by French composer Georges Bizet, is one of the most famous operas, and includes well known songs such as the Habanera and the Toreador Song.

The opera's heady combination of passion, sensuality and violence initially proved too much for the stage, and it was a critical failure on its 1875 premiere. Bizet died shortly after, and never learned of the spectacular success his Carmen would achieve.

National Theatre Live: Julius Caesar 22nd March 7pm & 28th March 8pm Caesar returns in triumph to Rome and the people come out to celebrate. Alarmed by his popularity, the educated élite conspire to bring him down.

After his assassination, civil war erupts on the streets. Nicholas Hytner’s production thrusts the audience into the street party that greets Caesar’s return, the congress that witnesses his murder, the rally that assembles for his funeral and the chaos that explodes in its wake.

The Royal Opera House Live: Bernstein Centenary 27th March 7.15pm The royal ballet celebrates the centenary of Bernstein's birth, he was eclectic in his sources drawing on jazz and modernism, the traditions of Jewish music and the Broadway musical - and many of his scores are remarkably well suited to dance. Particularly associated with Jerome Robbins, their credits together including Fancy Free and West Side Story. To celebrate this centenary year, The Royal Ballet has united all three of Its associate choreographers to celebrate the dynamic range and danceability of Bernstein's music. Both symphony and ballet are inspired by WH Auden's masterful modernist poem, itself written in response to the atmosphere of disillusionment and uncertainty that followed the end of World War II. Welwyn Garden City Cinema AL8 6BX www.cwentertainment.co.uk

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A Good Read World Book Day 1st 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 World Book Day book tokens to children and young people.

When you receive yours: - Take it to your local bookshop and swap it for one of the ten World Book Day books - Put it towards one of the five novels for teens which are only £2.50 each - Or get £1 off any full price book or audiobook costing at least £2.99 Then just take your book home and enjoy the read!

Tokens are valid from 26th Feb - 25th March www.worldbookday.com

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St Albans in 50 Buildings

by Kate Morris Explore the rich history of St Albans in this guided tour through its most fascinating historic and modern buildings. The Roman town of Verulamium was one of three important Roman cities in Britain and the site of the execution of the early Christian martyr, St Alban. The town fell into decline following the departure of the Roman Army in the 5th century; however, in the early medieval period a monastery was established at the shrine of St Alban and the town of St Albans grew around it.

The Norman Conquest redeveloped the monastery and it became one of the leading abbeys in the land. At the dissolution by Henry VIII many of the abbey buildings were destroyed but the church was taken over by the town and survives as the cathedral today. St Albans’ proximity to London and position on major routes out of the city ensured that it continued to enjoy growth and prosperity into the 18th century with many large buildings surviving from this era.

Today St Albans is again thriving and has a number of noteworthy modern buildings standing alongside its more historical structures.

St Albans in 50 Buildings explores the history of our fascinating city through a selection of its most interesting buildings. Including the Roman Theatre and Verulamium Museum, the Cathedral, the Clock Tower and Kingsbury Barn from the Middle Ages, the 16th and 17th century Pemberton Alms Houses, Tudor Tavern, the Georgian Romeland House and Abbey Mills, the 19th century Town Hall and Old Stationmaster House, and the 20th century Odyssey Cinema, Express Dairy and post-Millennium Westminster Lodge Swimming Pool.

Purchase from Waterstones, St Albans £14.99

Email: concordeaerials2@gmail.com

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RSPB Walks & Talks

Ghosts and Ghouls 7th & 21st March 8pm Meet in front of the Old Town Hall, St Peter's Street, St Albans AL3 5DJ There's More to the Tudors than Henry VIII 30th March 2.30pm Meet in front of the Old Town Hall, St Peter's Street, St Albans AL3 5DJ Fishpool Street: Rags and Riches 31st March 2.30pm Meet outside Verulamium Museum AL3 4SW Adult £5, child £2 , under 5's free. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

Harpenden Lea Valley Walk 4th March 8am -10.15am * Guided walk identifying local birds. Meet on the bridge over the River Lea at the junction of Crabtree Lane and Marquis Lane.

Please call to confirm attendance 01582 715420 Talk: Wildlife Conservation in Hertfordshire 8th March 8pm £3 All Saints Church Hall, Station Road, Harpenden Illustrated talk by Tim Hill, Conservation Officer for Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust Visit to Amwell Nature Reserve and Rye Meads RSPB Reserve 21st March 10.15am - 4pm * Full day of birdwatching with Ann and Roger Doubleday, please call if planning to attend 01582 764226.

Meet in Amwell Lane, Ware SG12 9SN parking on the east side near the War Memorial.

Morning Walk in Brocket Park 28th March 9.45am * Half day birdwatching walk led by Ann and Roger Doubleday, please call for details 01582 764226. *Free and run by volunteers, donation of £1 to RSPB is appreciated www.rspb.org

Hertfordshire Health Walks

Discover The Hertfordshire Way

Out and About St Albans City Walk

Led by trained volunteers the walks take place whatever the weather, cater for all ages and abilities and are a fantastic way to stay active, have a good natter and improve general wellbeing. Best of all they are free. To find a walk near you visit www.hertfordshirehealthwalks.org

Passing through peaceful fields, quiet footpaths and lovely villages, The Hertfordshire Way is a long-distance waymarked path that guides you all the way around the county. It’s now easier than ever to enjoy, thanks to a new full-colour edition of the official guidebook which divides the route into 16 manageable legs of between 9 and 15 miles.

Welly Walks Each starts and ends as close to public transport 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st March 11am - 12 noon as possible and is clearly described with a detailed Stories, activities and a chance to explore different map, with watercolour pictures and photos of parts of this fantastic site. Some of the time you’ll highlights along the way. The whole route itself is be outside so make sure you’re suitably dressed. clearly marked with distinctive signposts. £10 + Ages 3 - 7, child £3, adult free £1.50 postage, from the Friends of The Stockwood Discovery Centre Hertfordshire Way. www.lutonculture.com hertfordshireway@gmail.com www.fhw.org.uk

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Deliciousandreal Family Food Harissa Salmon with Chinese Style Veggies This low carb meal has a real kick to it. The harissa is a great addition to a simple salmon steak and the Chinese flavours in the vegetable stir-fry complement it perfectly, full of goodness and easy to make, it’s a perfect mid-week dinner.

2 salmon fillets 1 tbsp harissa paste 1 tbsp honey 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp ginger, minced ½ tsp chilli flakes 1 star anise, broken in half 1 tsp soy sauce 1 tbsp Chinese rice vinegar 2 tbsp oil 1 small cabbage, shredded 1 medium carrot, cut into small batons Handful of fine green beans, trimmed Salt, to taste Combine the harissa and honey in a small bowl, put the salmon on a baking tray and brush with the harissa mixture. Bake in the oven at 180°C for 15 minutes.

Combine the garlic, ginger, chilli flakes and star anise in a small bowl, and the soy sauce and rice wine vinegar in another. Heat the oil in a pan, add the garlic mix to the hot pan; stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant, add the vegetables, stir-fry for one to two minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt, then add the salt and the soy sauce mixture. Cover and cook over high heat for one minute, uncover and stir-fry for 30 seconds.

Oaty Apple Muffins A perfect 'healthy’ treat with ingredients that boast immune boosting properties. Great for an after-school snack, and the oats help keep you fuller for longer. You don’t have to add the flaxseeds, but they are an easy way of getting a little extra Omega 3 (and fibre) in your diet Depending on how sweet your tooth is, you may want to add a little more sugar, or try them without any!

140g plain flour 1 tbsp baking powder 1 tsp ground mixed spice 3 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional) 75g soft brown sugar 175g porridge oats 3 apples, cooking or eating, peeled, cored and finely chopped 2 eggs 125ml milk 125 fresh apple juice 6 tbsp oil Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a 12-cup muffin tin. In a large bowl mix the flour, baking powder, mixed spice and flaxseed. Stir in the sugar, oats and apples. In a separate bowl lightly beat the eggs, add the milk, apple juice and oil and continue to beat until they are combined.

Pour the liquid into the dry ingredients and stir to combine, do not over mix.

Share the mixture between the 12 cases and add a sprinkling of oats to the top of each. Bake for 20 - 25 minutes.

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

St Albans Bun St Albans claims to be the home of the original hot cross bun.

The spicy Easter cake, also known as the Alban Bun is said to originate in St Albans, where Brother Thomas Rocliffe, a 14th century monk at St Albans Abbey, developed the original recipe and distributed the Bun to the local poor on Good Friday starting in 1361. Today you can buy them from mid-February until Easter Monday from St Albans Cathedral shop and Abbot's Kitchen Cafe. www.stalbanscathedral.org

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What’s on in March 42

until 25th March Exhibition: British Wildlife Awards page 32 1st Understanding & Managing Anger in Children Maltings Arts Theatre, St Albans AL1 3HL 7.30pm www.keystoneworkshops.co.uk 2nd Jimmy Osmond - Moon River & Me see page 4 The Daria Kulesh Quartet, Ben Moss & Bow by Bow see page 8 2nd & 3rd, 8th - 10th Old Time Music Hall see page 28 3rd First Aid Course for Teenagers St Albans Fire Station, London Road AL1 1TQ 9am - 1pm www.vistastalbans.org.uk Odyssey & Heatwave see page 4 4th Nuffield Triathlon Nuffield Health, Hemel Hempstead HP2 4NW, £20, registation 9am 6th The Royal Opera House Live: Carmen page 32 6th & 7th Street Party Information Sessions www.ourstreetparty.org 6th - 10th Cats see page 28 7th Richard Herring: Oh Frig, I’m 50 Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 8pm, £17.50 8th & 9th Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde see page 28 8th - 10th & 15th - 17th The Deep Blue Sea see page 28 9th Eddie & The Hot Rods Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, loud & fast Rock n Roll, 8pm, £18 10th St Albans Symphony Orchestra see page 8 Absolute Bowie Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 8pm, £19.50 10th & 11th Lambing Weekend see page 2 Mothers Day Events see page 10 11th March Hares & More see page 20 Elkie Brooks see page 4 12th - 17th British Science Week see page 25 13th Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac see page 4

16th Noasis Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, definitive Oasis tribute band, 8pm, £18 17th JS Bach: St John Passion see page 6 Stabat Mater by Haydn see page 8 Muddy Mayhem 5k Obstacle Run see page 30 18th Hertfordshire Wedding Fair see page 4 21st St Albans, Harpenden & District Philatelic Society Meeting: Displays by Pinner Philatelic Society St Mary's Church, Childwickbury AL3 6JJ, 8pm www.stalbharpstampclub.org.uk 21st & 24th Die Fiedermaus see page 28 FoodSmiles Open Days Hammonds End Farm, Harpenden AL5 2AY a free tour, 1.30pm - 4 pm 22nd - 24th Gangsta Granny Hertford Theatre, SG14 1PS Thu & Fri: 7pm Sat: 11am & 3pm www.hertfordtheatre.com 23rd The Sensational 60s Experience see page 4 24th Dr John Cooper Clarke see page 4 The Close-up Show Hertford Theatre SG14 1PS 8pm www.hertfordtheatre.com Soroptimist Women's Group Quiz Homewood Road Church Hall, St Albans AL1 4BH, 07884 185925, fish & chip supper, bar, £12.50, child £10, in aid of local women's refuges, 7.15pm 25th Final Tree Ceremony: Heartwood Forest see page 20 Dogs & Daffs Charity Walk see page 24 Fantastic Pictures see page 8 29th The Rocket Man: A Tribute to Elton John Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, £20 29th March - 2nd April Easter Funfair Harpenden Common 6pm - 10pm 30th & 31st Easter Trail see page 24 Peppa Pig’s Adventure see page 4 30th March - 2nd April Eggciting Easter see page 24 Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt see page 24 31st The Beginners Water Vole Monitoring & Surveying Training see page 20 Guns 2 Roses see page 8 The Amazing Bubble Man see page 25

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What’s on in April 44

2nd - 13th Easter Holiday Activities St Albans Museum www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk 3rd There Was An Old Lady That Swallowed A Fly The Sandpit Theatre AL4 9NX, 2pm, £10/£8 3rd - 6th Easter Holiday Workshop Hurst Children's Theatre Group www.hctg@live.co.uk 4th & 11th Easter at Burston see page 15 Film: Paddington The Sandpit Theatre, St Albans AL4 9NX £3/£2, 10.30am 4th & 28th Tower Tours St Albans Cathedral, £9.50 5th Peter Pan & Captain Cook The Sandpit Theatre, St Albans AL4 9NX £6, £4, 11am 5th - 7th Just So Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL, St Albans Youth Musical Theatre 7th Darkside: The Pink Floyd Show Harpenden Public Halls, 01582 767525, 7.30pm, £18.50 9th - 13th Easter Crafts Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, £2 per craft, 10am - 4pm 10th Pam Cantellow Harpenden Public Halls, Harpenden Floral Decoration Club, 2pm 11th Gentle Stroll - Signs of Spring Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, guided walk through Ashridge, £3, just turn up, 2.30pm - 4.30pm Ed Byrne: Spoiler Alert Harpenden Public Halls AL5 1PD, 01582 767525, 7.30pm, £24 12th Family Discovery Morning - Easter St Albans Cathedral, 10am, ages 3 - 11 13th Chantel McGregor Harpenden Public Halls AL5 1PD, 01582 767525, 7.30pm, £15 14th The Sixteen Choral Pilgrimage St Albans Cathedral, 7.30pm 18th Lunchtime Organ Recital by Charles Tompkins, St Albans Cathedral, 12.30pm, free 20th Special Kinda Madness Harpenden Public Halls AL5 1PD, 01582 767525, 8pm £18 20th - 23rd Exhibition: Oaklands College - Your Future in Your Hands St Albans Cathedral, exploring

questions raised by political & social changes in the contemporary world 21st Five Miles to Fabulous Women Only Bike Ride meet: Morrisons, Hatfield Road, check your bike before, bring money for coffee, 9.30am www.southhertsctc.org.uk The Messiah St Albans Cathedral, St Albans Choral Society with Orchestra Nova & four soloists, 7.30pm Exhibition: Harpenden Photographic Society High Street Methodist Church, 10am - 4.30pm Street Food Social Harpenden Common, with Emilio & friends, please bring chairs & picnic blankets, 4pm - 6pm Harpenden Record Fair Harpenden Public Halls AL5 1PD, 01582 767525, 10am-4pm, free entry 21st - 29th Sustainable St Albans Week www.sustainablestalbans.org 22nd St Albans Bowling Club Open Day see opposite page 24th Talk: Climate Change & British Wildlife Marshalswick Community Centre, St Albans AL4 9TX, looking at how climate change is affecting wildlife, ages 16+ 7.30pm, please book www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk 26th Double Bill: The Suit & A Dream within a Midsummer Night’s Dream by Ballet Black Weston Auditorium, Hatfield AL10 9EU £12, concs £9, £5 28th The Bootleg Bee Gees Harpenden Public Halls AL5 1PD, 01582 767525, 7.30pm £18.50 Watercolour Workshop paint Ashridge bluebells with artist Liz Rogers, materials & refreshments provided, 1.30pm - 4.30pm, £30, please book www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge St Albans Cathedral Music Trust Young Musicians Competition Winner Concert St Albans Cathedral, 12.30pm 28th & 29th Dockey Wood Bluebells Ashridge, learn more about this special forestry plantation and the bluebells that bloom there, entry to the wood outside these times is free. 10am - 4pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge 29th Bubble Rush Herts see page 16

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St Albans Bowling Club Keep Active, Stay Healthy, Make New Friends - Play Bowls!

St Albans Bowling Club is the oldest bowls club in St Albans, founded in 1903, and located in the delightful setting of Clarence Park. It has historical links with Sam Ryder, who bequeathed a silver cup to the Club long before he discovered golf. There is a current mixed membership of over 100, and the Club is always eager to welcome new members.

Bowls is a sport for all ages, genders and abilities. It’s gaining in popularity as it is inexpensive and easy to learn, and is no longer perceived as an older persons sport. Free coaching is available at the Club for prospective members with all equipment provided. There is an Open Day on Sunday 22nd April when all those who are keen to know more about the Club and the sport are warmly invited to attend. Sessions will run between 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm.

The summer season runs from April to September and throughout this period both single gender and mixed matches are played. These range from internal competitions within the Club to representative matches against other clubs in Hertfordshire and competitions at county and district level. For those who prefer less competitive matches, there are informal sessions called “roll-ups” to be enjoyed during the week.

In addition to actively participating in the sport, the Club prides itself on its sociable atmosphere, and a number of events are arranged during the season and through the winter months in its licensed clubhouse. For more information or if you have any questions please contact Colin and Clare Orchard, on 01727 854129 or email recruitment.training@stabc.co.uk

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Index of Businesses Domestic Appliance Aerial Installations & Repairs Concorde Aerials 35 Sales & Installation MA Washvac Services Beauty Education The Cove Spa 10 Skin & Tonic 11 Kumon

Oven Cleaning OvenMaster

22

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorators

31 31

Plasterers A Merson Plastering

31

Charity Traid

Electrician 33 19 Alban Electrical Services Robinsons Electrical Services 33 19 Fencing Verulam Fencing 45 45 Football Camps St Albans City 39 Youth FC Back Cover 38 Garden Centre Burston Garden Centre 14 41 39 Gardening / Landscaping Garden Life Landscapes 14 16 Justin Leon 47

Children’s Early Learning Gymboree

Health & Fitness 26 Aerial Yoga Classes

18

Chiropodist Kathy Witchard

Hearing Services 11 Hearing Healthcare Practice

Slimming Lighter Life Vision Weight Consultancy

12

Bicycle Repairs Cycletech Herts Bicycle Shop CTH Cycles Bowling Club St Albans Bowling Club Building Services Brockhall Building Services Open Plan Solutions Carpentry / Joinery Chris Smyth Oliver Wood Interiors

Cleaning Daily Poppins Domestique Merrivac

35 47

23 Insurance 23 NFU Mutual 43 23 Life Coaching College Storm McQueen Coaching 5 Oaklands College 29 Locksmith Conservatory Roof Solutions Lock Around the Clock 41 Nu-Look 7 Loft Ladders Home Counties Loft Ladders 17 Dance & Drama Penny Waterman School of Dance 27 Music Lessons 29 Stagecoach 27 The Rock Project Organ Theatre Domestic Appliance Repairs 9 Leigh Hibon 21 St Albans Organ Theatre MA Washvac Services

21

Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd

41 & 47

Pressure Washing Verulam Pressure Washing

22

Removals Stephens Removals

22

Roofing GJ Smith Roofing

39 & 41

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Soft Furnishings Sue Smyth

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