Redbourn Fireworks see pages 6-7
Lord’s. Owing to the coronavirus CHAIRMAN’S NOTES: restrictions, no spectators were allowed. However, like many others, REDBOURN RESPONDS I watched it on TV and it was a thrilling and close match. I would like Cllr. David Mitchell to congratulate captain Ed Hales and the rest of the team for a fantastic I have been very heartened by the infrastructure achievement – you made Redbourn way that Redbourn came together to provision, and proud! deal with the coronavirus pandemic. the impact on the environment. The Finally, I would like to wish you all a At the last ‘physical’ council meeting Government Inspectors’ agreed with Merry Christmas and a Happy New in March, we discussed a plan of many of our points, as well as Year! action with various organisations in highlighting a failure of a ‘Duty to Redbourn to ensure that our more Cooperate’ requirement. The result is cllr.david.mitchell@redbourn- vulnerable residents would get the that the draft Local Plan is now dead pc.gov.uk help they needed. We gave a grant to in the water. A new Local Plan will the newly formed Redbourn be undertaken with a new Greenbelt Coronavirus Volunteers so they and Review and a greater emphasis on the Redbourn Care Group had the sustainability and climate change funds to meet the challenge. Since issues. Everyone knows that we then they have done a fantastic job, need new houses as soon as so well done to all those involved. possible, however I will continue to campaign to make sure that When the Parish Centre closed Redbourn isn’t the sacrificial lamb in during the first lockdown, I decided the planning process. we could use the foyer as a foodbank Redbourn Parish Council collection point and I would take the In the meantime, we have decided to The Park, Redbourn, Herts, donations in the boot of my car to the press on with our AL3 7LR
Vineyard Foodbank in St Albans. NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN which However, the first time I did it, I had been put on hold pending the We are still open for business! underestimated the generosity of outcome of the draft Local Plan. We Redbourn residents! I needed the have decided we can’t wait for the Please see our opening hours: Care Group minibus and two cars to next Local Plan to be delivered, so get everything there. This was we are aiming to finish the NP by Mon - Thurs 10 am - 2 pm repeated many times, so thank you this time next year. Fri 10 am - 1 pm everyone. REDBOURN YOUTH PARISH Tel: 01582 794832 Unfortunately, it isn’t possible to COUNCIL continue using the Parish Centre for In the past we have had a thriving collections, but you can still donate youth council, and we would like to Clerk - Chris Kenny directly to the foodbanks both as get one going again. If you would individuals and as streets: see [email protected] like to get involved and are aged www.thevineyardchurch.co.uk/feed between 16 and 19, contact me at Deputy Clerk - Vicky Kidd or www.dens.org.uk/get-involved/ my council email address or call the food-donations. If you need food [email protected] Redbourn Parish Council Clerk on parcels or any other help, please call 01582 794832. The aim is to allow Facilities Officer - Zoe Urrejola the Redbourn Care Group on 01582 the youth of Redbourn to have a 794550. [email protected] voice in local decisions and interact SADC DRAFT LOCAL PLAN with the main Council. I would also Community Officer - Becky Firth REJECTED like to hear from any ‘over-19s’ who [email protected] would be willing to help facilitate the Earlier this year, St Albans District youth council. Council’s draft Local Plan went to the Website official Examination to assess its CONGRATULATIONS TO soundness. The Plan included REDBOURN CRICKET CLUB www.redbourn-pc.gov.uk proposals for over 3000 new houses As I am sure many of you already on Redbourn Parish’s greenbelt. We, Facebook know, the Redbourn Cricket Team the Parish Council, had put forward reached the final of The Cricketer www.facebook.com/ many objections about the greenbelt Village Cup which was staged at redbournparishcouncil site-selection process, the lack of
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CONTEMPLATIONS OF THE CLERK
Chris Kenny
In this edition of the newsletter the occasion didn’t pass by without initiatives our everyone will be talking about what a being marked. creative and weird, challenging, difficult year we inventive Outdoor yoga on the common has have just had so I am not going to Redbourn proved very popular too and we have talk about that (although I do agree!) residents come up become a village that grows its own Instead I want to focus on how with. The Parish vegetables as the 3 allotment sites amazing Redbourn residents have Council is always looking at ways in are now at full capacity. Perhaps they been in the way we have risen to the which to facilitate such things and should have a stall at the very challenges to support those in one way is through the grant process. successful monthly Redbourn Market difficulty and adapt to a new way of I am pleased to say that this year we at the Village Hall? And talking of life have provided financial support for achievement who’d have thought that the following: Redbourn Community Redbourn Cricket Club would be call (see page 14), Redbourn Care playing a match at Lords! (see page Group and the Coronavirus 10) volunteers (pages 4 and 11), new As our new community library has storage for Redbourn Community remained closed because of covid, a Library, extra play equipment resourceful resident has stepped into Redbourn Preschool, bulbs and the breach and created a doorstep bedding plants for Redbourn in library, Redbourn Book Hub which Bloom’s village planters , a new
has proved popular particularly with sound system for Redbourn Players families. (page 4), security lighting for Redbourn Tennis Club, new Although equipment for Redbourn Bowls Club the (page 17) , funding for the Village Hall Firework Did you know for instance that to become a covid secure venue Display Cumberland Gardens became the (page 24), boundary hedge had to be go to dojo for karate and tai chi maintenance for the Allotments, an cancelled classes? Whilst being transformed outreach service for Citizens Advice this year, into a concert hall by night for a (page 8), money for Christmas not to be discouraged Redbourn performance by a local wind quintet. hampers (page 22). In total that residents have devised a covid safe comes to a whopping £26,000! Not to be deterred, we still managed way to enjoy Halloween which is to commemorate the 75th anniversary always a highlight in the calendar for However all of this is only possible of VE day by dedicating a tree on the children. Welcome to the Redbourn because of the great community spirit common for people to display Pumpkin trail – may this be the first of we have here in this village with thoughts, memories, photos of many! passionate and committed volunteers relatives. This along with the socially who readily give up their time to make As the parish clerk I am fortunate to distanced street parties meant that Redbourn a good place to live. have an overview of all the great
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to venerate the past 40 years – we setting up The Harebell Club which hold it in the highest regard, we want will retain the logo that so many are to safeguard the legacy of those who so fond of. It will be established for founded the charity to be sure it is those who wish to support and help; sustainable for the next 40 years. members will receive regular communications and be invited to Our experience in working with the events, particularly fundraising ones, wider community during the perhaps a lunch when we can all pandemic has taught us that we are socialise again. Looking to the much more than an organisation that gives help and assistance to the We are also hugely mindful of any Future - A Special elderly, and that changing our name costs involved and have already to Redbourn Community Group would committed to ensuring that is Resolution be a better way to reflect the fact that minimised. We have received we are here to serve everyone and financial support for this which would There is no doubt that 40 years ago not just the elderly. So we asked not otherwise have been donated. when RCG was established the word members to vote. 92% voted in The charity is likely to adopt the Care was a good choice, but favour, which is an overwhelming change of name in the new year but language has changed and we now result. This means we will adapt and of course it depends upon charity have Care Homes and Carers so develop new ways of supporting commission and various other having the word Care in the charity’s people, both young and old. The bureaucratic administrative name is adding confusion. Trustees change will help us build on procedures. Thank you to everyone unanimously agreed that a change of Redbourn’s very strong sense of involved name and logo was essential, community. certainly not to denigrate the past, in Sally Bartlett, Redbourn Care Group fact the absolute opposite – we wish However, it does not mean that the harebell logo is lost. We intend
Don’t miss out on tickets for “Lockdown in Little Grimley”!
Redbourn Players innovative and subject than a drama group in socially distanced production of lockdown staging a play about
‘Lockdown in Little Grimley’ by a drama group in lockdown! David Tristram is now just a few days But that is not all. With Covid away and we are delighted to be able restrictions reducing the to finally bring live theatre back to audience capacity of the Redbourn after so many months of Village Hall by 70%, we are uncertainty. performing the play twice You will also be witnessing a little bit each evening so as many of history. ‘Lockdown in Little Grimley’ people as possible can is a brand new play, designed and come to see it. written especially for Lockdown, and Your safety remains our number one Redbourn Players will be one of the priority, and we want to assure all our first amateur societies in the country audience members that we have Tickets cost just £5 each available to perform it. followed all Government guidelines from Ashtons or by emailing The Players have previously and put in place rigid Covid-19 [email protected] – performed two other plays in the procedures and protocols to ensure but be quick, they are selling fast! ‘Little Grimley’ series and this new that you will be protected and able to facebook.com/redbournplayers one act play again features the enjoy the show in a safe and Covid hapless members of the Little Grimley secure environment. @redbournplayers Amateur Dramatic Society, and their Performance dates are Thurs 3rd, disastrous attempt to re-launch their Fri 4th and Sat 5th December with theatre and raise funds for the NHS performances at 7pm and 9pm. David Howell by staging a touching love story set in Redbourn Players a hospital. Indeed, what better
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COMMONS COMMENTS Cllr Colin O’Donovan
During this year, we have changed continue to maintain them according for the Spring. During this pandemic, both the name and timings of this to our regular inspections. If you we have noticed an increased use of Committee. The name has change to notice any issues, please report to the Common by residents walking, Commons and Green Spaces as this the Parish Council office on running or just playing – we are very better reflects the work that this 01582 794832 grateful and appreciative of this committee does. We now also meet space and it is great to see it being There will be festive lighting in the bi-monthly rather than once a month. used. I would just ask that whilst High Street (albeit limited due to the people are enjoying the area, please By the time you read this, work restrictions in this area) and in be considerate and either take should have now been completed in Cumberland Garden. Although there rubbish home with you or use the Long Cutt Play area where we have will not be a Christmas market, the bins provided (of which there are a replaced very old wire fencing and organisers have agreed to install the number) to dispose of your rubbish – self-closing gates – hopefully you will lighting display – so thank you for this includes picking up after your agree it looks a lot smarter and safer. this! dog/s. Dog litter can be put into the During the second lockdown, play The winter months will be spent general bins as well as the dog bins. areas will remain open and we repairing areas of the Common ready Redbourn Neighbourhood Plan Update
Since the Regulation 14 inspectors. SADC is now set Cllr Teresa Finnigan Pre-Submission Consultation that to start again for a third time. took place back in January/February be considered and The view of the Neighbourhood Plan 2018, we have been working hard to potentially Working Party has been to wait for assemble all the documentation included in this the inspectors response to SADC’s ready to submit the Redbourn revised document under the following Local Plan. After now failing twice Neighbourhood Plan’s Regulation 16 headings: there has been much discussion by to St Albans District Council (SADC) the working party who felt we should • Environment for a public referendum. carry on and get our Neighbourhood • Understandably progress and Plan over the finishing line. Transport decision making regarding Redbourn Before we get to submitting a • Leisure and Wellbeing Neighbourhood Plan has always Regulation 16 to SADC, hopefully been very closely tied up with the • High Street and Business next summer, we felt we should take development and progression of the another look at the plan, as its been a • Non-Policy Actions St Albans Draft Local Plan. Twice in while since this was put together. the last two years their plan has been • Revision of the 4 proposed New issues have arisen over the last declared unsound, most recently in development sites couple of years too that are important February 2020 by the independent to our community, and these will now • Visions and Objectives
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Keith Rowden Citizens Advice Volunteer
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Redbourn Citizens Advice Outreach office is currently closed – but we’re still helping To lower the risk of coronavirus to staff, volunteers and the people who come to us for help, we are currently not offering face to face drop-in services at the Civic Centre Hub in St Albans, Redbourn Parish Centre or the other outreaches in the District. However, we are continuing to provide our full advice service by telephone and online. Contact us about any issues that you need help with, including debt, benefits, housing, employment, consumer, family relationships, immigration, wills and probate, coronavirus. Or if you have a problem, but are not sure what would help, please get in touch. We can help you to understand and respond to letters and complete application forms (e.g. for benefits, grants, council forms and blue badges). We can refer clients to specialist lawyers and other agencies and charities where appropriate. Help with energy costs & efficiency from Citizens Advice St Albans This autumn and winter, we We can offer help in a variety of ways, ranging from are offering free advice to providing leaflets, to one-to-one appointments by phone. help people get the best Examples of issues to be discussed in an advice deal on their energy, deal appointment include:- with fuel debt, identify 1. Switching payment method, tariff or supplier to save eligibility for thermal money; efficiency measures in the 2. Obtaining additional financial help, such as a warm home and other benefits, homes discount worth £140; and to access priority services for vulnerable consumers. 3. Securing a grant to make home improvements for energy efficiency; Energy bills are a big challenge for many people, this year more than ever, and our help could make a 4. Resolving fuel debt issues or complaints against a supplier. significant financial difference.
Please get in touch with us if you need help. We’re here on the phone and online. St Albans Citizens Advice: 01727 811118 Telephone opening hours: are Mon -Thurs 10 am - 4 pm or Friday 10 am - 1 pm otherwise leave your contact details for a call back. Visit www.castad.org.uk for information, webchat and email advice. Herts Citizens Advice for general advice: 03444 111 444, or from a mobile: 03000 3300 650 For help claiming Universal Credit phone 0800 1448444. For more information on energy savings visit [email protected]
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Never has it been more important for going the extra mile within our Genuine agencies and companies neighbours to look out for each other. community, organising and never ask you to provide PIN The need continues and thank you to volunteering their time in support of numbers, bank account details or everyone who has done their bit to the Coronavirus Pandemic. Many transfer money to locations you do keep their neighbours and streets of awards were presented. not positively know and have verified. Redbourn safe. Unless you are absolutely sure, In March, NHW joined the Redbourn don’t do it without checking via a The NHW membership currently Coronavirus Volunteers Steering different communication method. covers 60% of the village. Committee chaired by Redbourn You can report Cybercrime to Action Care Group. It was a privilege to be Fraud at Not a member? We welcome you to part of a true team effort and witness join. Please register at the generosity of the village www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or or contact us. www.owl.co.uk residents. phone 0300 123 2040 This year, to our surprise, Redbourn Please continue to follow the Please stay vigilant. Be aware of NHW was awarded a “Heroes of Covid rules to protect yourself, uncharacteristic activities. For more Hertfordshire” certificate, presented family and friends. This is more information visit by HM’s Lord Lieutenant of important than ever. www.herts.police.uk/ Hertfordshire, for the service we have protectyourhome supplied to the people of the village. Cyber Crimes still increase. Computers, tablets, phones should Malcolm Wickens National Neighbourhood Week be protected with up to date NHW Ward Coordinator Redbourn could not be celebrated as planned protection software. Stay alert for [email protected] this year, so we requested emails or phone calls that are not nominations for awards for those from whom they originally appear.
As I write this article, it is 200 days since the beginning of “Lock Down” no. 1. At this, all the activities of the Redbourn U3A with its 40 plus Interest Groups came to a halt. However, it was only a brief pause! Our Group leaders continued to keep in touch with all their members via Zoom, emails, WhatsApp and other means of communication. Quizzes were set, virtual meetings took place and tasks were given out. Obviously, our monthly talks have had to be put on hold. However, we have now started on-line lectures which we hope have been enjoyed by our members. For those unable to have access to a computer or missed it, the Newsletter has included a precis of these talks. A monthly “Chairman’s Notes and Information” has been sent out to all our 350+ members. We have even held a virtual AGM! So, you can see we have continued to keep in touch with our U3A members. Who knows what will happen in the future, but one thing we do know, our Redbourn U3A will continue to flourish. Our U3A will always welcome new members. For information visit: www.u3asites.org.uk/redbourn or contact our membership secretary at: [email protected] Margaret Ormerod
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We are all so proud of Redbourn Cricket Club
The whole team in front of the famous Lord’s pavilion
A special recognition, socially distanced, presentation Lord's team came through your was held at Redbourn Cricket Club on Saturday junior ranks. 31st October. The event was in honour of the Club’s 31 October. The event was in honour of the Club’s In reply, the Chairman spoke outstanding national achievement this summer. Event outstanding national achievement this summer. Event about the experience saying, organiser County Councillor, Annie Brewster, explained organiser County Councillor, Annie Brewster, explained “Ed and his team have thrilled "We were all so proud Redbourn CC made it through Ed Hales celebrating his century at Lord’s "We were all so proud Redbourn CC made it through and entertained the community, Ed Hales celebrating his century at Lord’s seven gruelling rounds all the way to the final of the seven gruelling rounds all the way to the final of the culminating in an amazing final at Lord’s, in what has National Village Knockout Cup at Lord’s. However, we National Village Knockout Cup at Lord’s. However, we otherwise been a pretty dismal 2020. Although we didn’t are equally heartbroken no one could come and support are equally heartbroken no one could come and support quite get over the line, Ed’s century at Lord’s was an you in the match due to COVID-19 restrictions. Having you in the match due to COVID-19 restrictions. Having outstanding innings, which started in a remarkable attracted over 600 spectators to your semi-final, I'm sure attracted over 600 spectators to your semi-final, I'm sure fashion with a six off his very first ball. It was a privilege the entire village, and much of Hertfordshire, would have the entire village, and much of Hertfordshire, would have to be one of just 15 people from each team allowed into flocked to Lord's in any other year". Despite team flocked to Lord's in any other year". Despite team Lord’s. It's also a great honour to be able to welcome captain, Ed Hales, scoring the first century in the final captain, Ed Hales, scoring the first century in the final such distinguished guests come to Redbourn to since 2016, the club lost to Colwall Cricket Club from since 2016, the club lost to Colwall Cricket Club from recognise the club’s Herefordshire on the very last ball of the match. Herefordshire on the very last ball of the match. and Ed’s The senior dignitaries in Hertfordshire were right behind achievements.” the team and felt their achievement needed to be the team and felt their achievement needed to be The High Sheriff of recognised more formally so the Lord-Lieutenant of recognised more formally so the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Henry Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE, presented a Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE, presented a Holland-Hibbert, also commemorative signed cricket bat to the Club Chairman, commemorative signed cricket bat to the Club Chairman, presented a Antony Mauder, saying "you have made your village and Ed being presented with his commemorative bat by Antony Mauder, saying "you have made your village and Ed being presented with his commemorative bat by commemorative signed Henry Holland-Hibbert, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire commemorative signed the entire county of Hertfordshire extremely proud. Henry Holland-Hibbert, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire the entire county of Hertfordshire extremely proud. bat to century-scoring Congratulations to everyone in the team and, indeed, all Congratulations to everyone in the team and, indeed, all captain, Ed Hales. On receiving the bat, Ed said “I am the coaches and families behind your success. I'm so the coaches and families behind your success. I'm so overwhelmed by this honour, but our success is thanks impressed you have over 250 boys and girls at Redbourn impressed you have over 250 boys and girls at Redbourn to the entire team and the incredible club we have behind CC and it is testament to the club that the majority of the CC and it is testament to the club that the majority of the us. It is such a community club and our team is really a Henry Holland-Hibbert, High Sheriff of Hertfordshire; Gerald Corbett, Chairman of the MCC, Henry Holland-Hibbert, High Sheriff of Hertfordshire; Gerald Corbett, Chairman of the MCC, Antony Mauder, outgoing Redbourn CC Chairman; Ed Hales, Club 1XI Captain; Annie Brewster, group of friends happy to play cricket together. The Antony Mauder, outgoing Redbourn CC Chairman; Ed Hales, Club 1XI Captain; Annie Brewster, group of friends happy to play cricket together. The County Councillor; Robert Voss, Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire (from left to right) County Councillor; Robert Voss, Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire (from left to right) experience of Lord’s was insane, thinking of the cricketing greats who have played there.” The final word came from Redbourn resident and ex- High Sheriff, Gerald Corbett, who is soon to step down as Chairman of the MCC. He applauded the team saying his particular delight was that it was such an exciting, close game, everything one wants in a national final, even though it could only be viewed on YouTube this year. Antony Mauder, Chair Redbourn Cricket Club
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nter iew with eline well e irth
It seems apt that this interview with have reached out to Celine Powell, founder of Redbourn many more people in the Coronavirus Volunteers must take village than has ever place over the telephone, because at been possible before. the time of writing it is the 5th of Heroes of Hertfordshire Certificate Together during lockdown, they November. Yes, Bonfire Night for their service to the people of made several hundred calls to obviously, but notable also this year Hertfordshire. residents who were self-isolating, as the first day of the second living alone or in need of some lockdown! When asked how she felt company and someone to talk about lockdown 2.0 and what this to. Approximately 38 residents would mean for the Redbourn continue to have "Friendly Calls" and Coronavirus Volunteers, Celine have kept in contact with their caller replied it was: “business as usual”. on a regular basis. Her modest and seemingly Volunteers delivered an estimated nonchalant response belies the 1150 prescriptions and weekly food immense amount of time and effort parcels to 10 families in need during involved in setting up and running the lockdown. The food parcel the group in the first place. deliveries and prescriptions are Moreover, it is a testament to the continuing, although on a small scale joined-up thinking and planning that (60-90 prescriptions each week) with went into building the infrastructure additional emergency food parcel of the service the first time around. collections as required. From the influx of replies to Celine’s initial Facebook post suggesting her idea of a coronavirus volunteer group, she quickly recognised the value in joining forces with Redbourn Care Group and working closely with the Health Centre, Pharmacy, St Mary’s Church and Neighbourhood Watch in order to pool knowledge and resources. This meant they could start helping people without Celine has had roughly 500 delay. As an established charity with new volunteers sign up and longstanding knowledge and estimates that in total they experience of volunteers working in Such a large undertaking required responded to 1208 assignments in the community, Redbourn Care co-ordinated weekly meetings with a and around Redbourn between Group was ideally placed to provide core team comprising of Celine and March and August. This help was not expertise and act as the central point her deputy Kathie Grant, Sally only to elderly residents but people of contact for those requiring support Bartlett, Claire Louise Lawlor and of all ages who were shielding and/or as a result of the pandemic. Celine’s Peta Gunson (Redbourn Care households who were self-isolating new team of Coronavirus Volunteers Group), Sandra Parsons (Health because of covid symptoms. In fact, have swelled helper numbers to Centre), Reverend Will Gibbs, their hard work and dedication was approximately 169 (up Malcolm Wickens (Neighbourhood recognised this summer by the Lord 48%) meaning that collectively they Watch) and Gary Atkinson Lieutenant who awarded them a
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(processes and technical support). Coronavirus Volunteers delivered Together they were able to identify shopping to a Redbourn couple in new people or households in need of quarantine after their eventual return assistance and Gary developed home following an initial lockdown in systems and processes to follow in Australia. order to ensure the service was run Aside from the immediate health safely, smoothly and professionally. issues of protecting services users and volunteers from the virus, the Redbourn Care Group and Coronavirus Group also had to come up with ways of dealing with money for buying shopping safely and put strict procedures in place for the benefit of everybody. Grant funding from Redbourn Parish Council to buy card readers and selfie sticks meant nobody had to deal in cash. The selfie sticks being used to convey Secondly, in light of the success of bank cards from a safe distance to their joint work with the Coronavirus card readers to take payments to the Volunteers, Redbourn Care Group Care Group bank account. voted unanimously at their recent Volunteers would then be reimbursed AGM to rename themselves on submission of receipts. ‘Redbourn Community Group’. Going Although restrictions eased over the forward this means greater support summer months, Redbourn for people of ages living in Redbourn. Coronavirus Volunteers have Whilst an initial household leaflet If you would like to volunteer your continued to provide a smaller drop was essential to publicise the time or you are self-isolating and though steady flow of services to service and find volunteers, and need help with shopping, collecting residents in need and Celine expects fortnightly newsletters have kept prescriptions or a friendly phone call demand to increase again with people informed and entertained, please ring 01582 794550 open from lockdown 2.0. However there have Facebook has helped connect with 10 am until 2pm. Email: been some incredibly positive other demographics and relatives [email protected] or outcomes that have arisen out of all outside of Redbourn. In fact, they join their Facebook page this worry and uncertainty. Firstly, the were even contacted by people in www.facebook.com/ new relationships fostered between Australia – twice! One relative RedbournCareGroup. volunteers and their neighbours, wanted to make sure their family which Celine says she knows will member was looked after, and continue beyond the pandemic.
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AIR’s response to COVID 19 and their plans College in Hemel for 2021 Hempstead plus our own COVID-19 stopped us in our tracks. All our special Xmas-themed planned events were cancelled. But we were not workshops run by local completely lost. In April, along with Redbourn residents. For more Care Group we produced a 12 page booklet ‘How information visit to keep physically and mentally well while self- www.newleafcollege.co.uk isolating’ and delivered it to every Redbourn If COVID-19 allows, we home. hope to run a community event based around the Our “Live Well with AIR” Wellbeing Workshops Redbourn Mile in addition to restarting weekly Health walks. In 2021will re-instate what we had planned to do in
have had over 25000 hits. They provide free of charge Facebook Live on-line classes for all. 2020. These are a Conkerthon in early Spring, support Subjects included Pilates & Supple Strength, the Redbourn Fun Run in May, the Fete du Velo in Yoga, Song and Dance, Nutrition and multiple Summer and continue fund raising for our water fountains wellbeing techniques. campaign. You may wonder how we can run a Conkerthon in Spring out of the Autumn conker season – We reckon that each week we reach up to 50 we have frozen 500 conkers! isolated residents with our Redbourn Community call (see opposite). And finally... We are always looking for new active members for AIR to AIR UPDATE What we are planning for 2021 help us in achieving our goal, which will always be to help As part of our campaigning efforts AIR initiated a the active be even more active and happy. Above all, we petition to support the provision of a long needed seek to support those who are not so fit and who struggle cycle/path way between St Albans and Redbourn to be in good shape - both physically and mentally. – 2060 have signed up and the campaign to galvanise Herts CC into action continues. Contact Ivan Hickmott: 07977 476692 Email: [email protected] Look out for a “Laughterthon” on Zoom – a pre- www.activeinredbourn.co.uk th Christmas 30 minute slice of family fun on the 19 www.facebook.com/activeinredbourn December. The next phase of Live Well with AIR www.youtube.com and search for ‘activeinredbourn’ programme will promote a wide range of Wellbeing Workshops, offered by New Leaf
PREPARATION FOR HARPENDEN JIGSAW FESTIVAL HELPS LOCALS IN LOCKDOWN Local residents have been busy during the pandemic assembling jigsaw puzzles, not only for their own enjoyment and helping to overcome loneliness and possible boredom, but as part of the Harpenden Jigsaw Festival (HJF). The Festival, the first in Harpenden, which will be held on 4 & 5 June next year, is a charity event being organised by Our Lady of Lourdes and High Street Methodist Churches. Hundreds of jigsaws will be displayed and available for sale or simply to view. All the proceeds will be divided equally between Azalea (a Luton based charity which reaches out to women trapped in sexual exploitation) and Workaid (a Chesham charity which collects and refurbishes unwanted tools for use in disadvantaged communities abroad. An event organiser, Jon Carr from the Developing World Group, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, who suggested the idea after witnessing a similar event in Lancashire, is delighted that during these difficult times the local community is already coming together to help preparations. All from young to old are welcome to participate in this community event now by assembling their own or donated jigsaws, or by donating jigsaws themselves for others to make up. If you can help, please contact the Harpenden Jigsaw Festival organisers on 01582 713068 or by email at [email protected], our website www.harpendenjigsawfestival.co.uk or follow us on our Facebook page – Harpenden Jigsaw Festival.
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BEHIND THE SCENES OF REDBOURN COMMUNITY CALL WITH HOST SYMON VEGRO
by Becky Firth
What is Redbourn Community Call? It’s a big conference call for 30 minutes on a Wednesday at 11 am. You dial a freephone number, enter a pin, and can listen to the conversation. The basic format is a couple of guests: one providing cost wouldn’t be a barrier to people the regular interruptions from Rev. information, the other entertainment, listening. Will Gibbs' dog who likes to be heard! with Rev. Will Gibbs giving us his You make a very good host One of the funniest times was at the thought for the week (inspired by start when we didn’t recognise the Symon - do you have a importance of muting listeners. the ‘Today’ programme) in the background in broadcasting? middle. It is also recorded and Consequently we could hear people available on the AIR Facebook and That’s a funny story actually no I talking in the background, dogs website don’t, but I did have a brief stint on barking, kettles boiling, doorbells www.activeinredbourn.co.uk so, hospital radio in my 20s. I lasted a ringing etc! The worse was one of the total of 2 weeks before I was sacked listeners exclaiming: ‘this is boring!’ you can listen anytime. because they didn’t like the music I Suffice to say we learnt our lesson It’s a great idea - who thought was playing – whole Pink Floyd and everybody is now put on mute of it and why? tracks which weren’t considered unless being interviewed! It was a collective idea of 4 of us from uplifting enough! The call with Bim Afolami was AIR: Ivan Hickmott, Rachel Mackie, Who was your favourite guest? probably the most challenging for me Chris Emmel and myself. It came personally as it was the first but also That is a difficult question because about after one of our regularly as a lifelong Labour supporter and they’ve all brought something weekly brainstorming sessions, which councillor I had to make sure not to different to the calls. But in terms of incidentally are often very amusing bring politics into the discussion! and possibly a community call or information, it has to be Jim podcast in themselves! McManus, Director of Public Health What is the future for Redbourn for Hertfordshire. We were so lucky Community Call? When lockdown hit we wanted to find he took time out of his incredibly busy We have funding from Redbourn a way to reach out and connect with schedule to speak to us. Redbourn Parish Council to cover the costs of people in Redbourn as it was a Players were regular guests who kept the calls until December but we are frightening time, nobody knew how us all wonderfully entertained too. not looking to continue. We reached long it was going to last and we The best one I think was their 'Fawlty approximately 50 isolated residents recognised that many people in the Towers' sketch. village would be lonely and isolated. during lockdown and had some lovely Who was the most challenging feedback from people saying have We originally wanted to create a radio guest? much they’ve looked forward to it station ‘Radio Redbourn’ … but it was each week. However we feel that As it’s live there are times when a complicated and lengthy, not to whilst life is not completely back to things don’t go to plan and I have to mention costly, process and we normal yet the calls have run their think on my feet a lot. It could be needed to reach residents ASAP. It course and it’s time to come up with nervous guests that need coaxing, or was also essential it was free so that something new so watch this space!
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Redbourn Christmas Hamper Providing for those 1. Make a donation facing hardship in We are so grateful for any financial Redbourn this donations towards the scheme. You can make donations online at: Christmas
www.givealittle.co/ Our village community has united campaigns/9767d4ea-38c1-4a0e- brilliantly to assist one another bf6e-74c919c5ce13 through these challenging Covid We prefer to receive online times. Christmas 2020 gives further donations, but if you would like to opportunity to help individuals and donate by cash or cheque (made families in Redbourn who are facing payable to St Mary’s Redbourn financial difficulties. PCC) these can be delivered to the The Redbourn Christmas Hamper Redbourn Care Group office in the Scheme provides those facing Village Hall between 10-2pm hardship this year with a package of weekdays. seasonal foods and treats for a 2. Buy a special Christmas card
special Christmas Day. It aims to of Redbourn Common in the ‘lighten the load’ for those feeling the snow How can I request a hamper? financial strain of providing a special To raise funds for the hamper Christmas dinner. If you live in Redbourn, are facing scheme, local artist Rosie Hodson hardship this Christmas and a How can I help? has designed a card of children hamper would make a difference to We have received a grant from playing in the snow on Redbourn you, please do get in touch. We Redbourn Parish Council to kick-start Common. would love to help you out. this scheme, but we are relying on These limited-edition cards Visit the generosity of those in the village www.stmarysredbourn.org/ cost £5.00 each, though any donation or who are able to help us to provide apply-for-a-christmas-hamper/ is welcome. ring or email: these hampers. 07398 755 954 Cards are available to collect from [email protected]. There are a number of ways to Redbourn Care Group office in the Forms can also be collected from support this scheme: Village Hall between 10-2pm Redbourn Care Group office see weekdays. above.
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such as name the environmental PROVIDING SUPPORT IN logo, true or false environmental facts and naming the environmental issue. LOCKDOWN Emily Russell It was an opportunity for students, families and staff to come together to Summit discuss and learn about important Support Ltd is issues whilst having a fun evening. based in The numerous opportunities available Redbourn and supports children and through a digitally based format adults with learning disabilities to allowed new skills to be learnt such become as independent and as maths and English skills, travel confident as possible through and directions using Google Earth learning and practicing essential and having the chance to discover social and practical skills. more about nutrition and a healthy Coronavirus presented a huge lifestyle. challenge to both staff and students to maintain a high level of support This experience has shown the whilst ensuring safety for all involved. opportunities including quiz nights, a importance of coming together as a film club and a virtual escape room team and supporting one another The which were thoroughly enjoyed by all. during difficult times. importance of providing One of the projects that Summit Summit work within the Hertfordshire social focussed on was Earth Day 2020 catchment area with a diverse age opportunities where our sessions promoted the range from school age to those living became importance of environmental independently or in supported extremely awareness and the changes that can accommodation. To engage with important to be made to improve our impact upon Summit Support, referrals can be combat the the Earth. This content was delivered made through support services or in an interactive format by setting independently raised by contacting challenges such as sending in the office on 01582 967960 or via isolation pictures of activities that help the email: [email protected] that many environment. There were some
faced. fantastic ideas including growing your Summit own plants, recycling and reusing developed water in the garden. Staff also helped innovative develop this thought process by ways to growing plants together and learning deliver how to care for them properly. these Another educational yet enjoyable activity was the ‘Earth Day Quiz’ created by staff that included rounds
Redbourn Bowls Club on the ball with Covid Guidelines In March of this year the members of Redbourn Bowls Club were just starting on their spring clean of the bowls green when the COVID 19 lockdown forced them to abandon the green and all the Club’s fixtures for the summer season, not knowing how long it would be before they could return. In fact it was not until the end of June that we could open the gates again for social bowling, but only after following the advice of the government and Bowls England. This meant that sanitising systems had to be set up so that the basic equipment allowed by Bowls England could be sanitised on every occasion it was used and antibacterial hand gel was supplied. A booking system was set up so that the number of people bowling at the same time was kept within the government rules in place at the time. Only one person on each rink was allowed to handle the mats and one person the jacks. This system was in place for a few weeks and as the virus situation improved slightly over the summer we reinstated our twice weekly roll-ups which continued to be played with social distancing very much at the forefront. So the message is that, in what are still very difficult times, when the opportunities of group exercising are few and far between, bowls is still being played when government guidelines allow at Redbourn Leisure Centre Mondays and Fridays 10.30am -12pm. Do come and have a go. We are a very friendly group and would love to see you. Hopefully we will have a full programme for the 2021 season. Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 48 Autumn / Winter 2020 - 2021 www.redbourn-pc.gov.uk Page | 17 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 48 Autumn / Winter 2020 - 2021 www.redbourn-pc.gov.uk
A Visit from the Paper Boys! By Katrina
‘Twas the night before lockdown, when all through the We also house, not a creature was stirring not even a mouse… appreciate unless you heard the paper boys! All throughout the year the help there is a merry band of hardy young people that get up and at the crack of dawn long before many of us, come rain or support of the Thank you to Charlotte shine to deliver papers to houses all around the village. parents of these Lucking Firth for drawing the Hi Viz elves! During lockdown this has provided a vital lifeline to those young people that have shielding. In actual fact demand for paper deliveries has turned up in the early mornings and lent a hand with actually increased. To the point that some have had to getting everything ready for the paperboys so they can invest in special trolleys that attach to their bikes to take start on their rounds. In particular Jeanette and Callum the extra load. have been outstanding in their support at the weekends, especially when Diane our long-standing weekend lady The paperboys have been an absolutely brilliant bunch of temporarily stepped down. young people, always turning up on time and doing their jobs with enthusiasm, helping each other out wherever So, should you be up early enough one morning and necessary and being kind and helpful to their customers, happen to see one of the young people adorned in their even running small errands for them. Our heartfelt thanks Hi-Viz give them a wave! to these young people for all their hard work during this If you would like a paper delivery, please contact the staff time. at Weymans on 01582 792396 who will be happy to help.
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POLICE SURGERIES information from members of the public, we were able to locate some of the culprits and issues 2 x Section 59’s. OPEN AGAIN AT These are Police warning against both the rider and the REDBOURN motorcycle valid for a period of 12 months. PARISH CENTRE Following a number of reports of theft from fuel (or Bilking’s) an individual was arrested and charged for the
PCSO ALEX PEDUTO offences, vehicle sized, and the individual now awaits his day in court. The last few months have been challenging for all of us for the After many years serving the Harpenden and Rural obvious Health related issues. All community, PC Wilkes has now left our area to become Police led events have been the latest addition to the newly reformed Rural and cancelled, albeit in September we have managed to Operational Support Team. (R.O.S.T) in Welwyn Garden reopen the Police Surgeries (covid safe of course). City. Meanwhile we are still getting reports of Covid 19 PC 2199 Clifton has now joined the team (albeit regulation breaches and now more than ever it is currently on an attachment) bringing with him a wealth of imperative that we all follow governments guidelines to experience having worked in the St Albans intervention help ourselves and each other in these difficult team for a number of years. We wish them both all the circumstances. best in their new positions. In the summer we have had a number of reports of Once again, please continue the follow all COVID 19 nuisance bikes in some of the most remote parts of our guidelines, stay safe, protect each other. area and I am pleased to report that following
Friends of the High Street Action List Update
Cllr Teresa Finnigan
A charity and/or community shop Please do keep an eye out on social media, village websites and noticeboards for further updates. We have been in discussions with a local community organisation regarding a charity shop. These actions need your help, you may be interested in getting involved, we would love to see members of the A High Street cleaning programme and rota community coming together bringing their energy, time High Street is litter picked and litter bins emptied on a and commitment and hopefully making a contribution for daily basis, and a sweeper visits the High Street as and the collective good of our High Street. If there are any when required. individuals or local organisations who would like to get involved, please contact either Ivan or myself, details Street signage improvements below. We took a journey through the High Street looking at the [email protected] signage from both ends – noted current signs that we felt were redundant or damaged and needed replacing [email protected] as well as what we thought we should have, and that current signage appears to be tailored to car traffic and not pedestrians, cyclists and the disabled for instance. Better bus services - environmentally friendly SADC and HCC manage the bus service for Redbourn. Campaign to support local shops and businesses Been promoting shop local through the recent pandemic and we will continue to do so to help and support them get through this difficult time. Traffic flow/parking improvements SADC will be taking a look at our High Street’s layout and design in 20/21. Village Market Village market was back up and running this summer. Please see page 22 in this newsletter for more details.
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Having first appeared in the Village A nursery from Codicote regularly offer by looking on Facebook and Hall in October 2019, the Redbourn brings a beautiful array of summer local networking sites as well as in Village Market was re-launched as bedding and perennial plants. the Common Round. an outdoor market in June 2020 and has been adding variety to the High Local beekeepers from Heartwood The market is currently organised by Street on the second Saturday of Forest and St Albans bring their two local ladies, with the help of a each month ever since. Operating beautiful jars of honey along every small group of extra helpers on between 10 am and 1 pm in the month. market days. Any other offers of help, with the planning, marketing or Village Hall Car Park, we now have We have locally produced soaps and between 12 – 15 stalls and are set up/clearing away would be much other skin care products as well as appreciated. And if you would like to developing a regular loyal following some jewellery and crafts. of locals who come to chat, shop and take a stall we would love to hear generally enjoy what the market has Each month we offer a local charity a from you too. to offer. space, at no cost, to promote what Contact us by email: they do and raise much needed In the course of the last six months [email protected] funds. Recently we have welcomed Follow us on Facebook : we have had a fantastic range of the Redbourn Community Library www.facebook.com/ stalls, selling: olive oil, cheeses, cold and Redbourn Scouts. meats, chutneys and preserves of all redbournvillagemarket sorts, fresh fruit, bread, cakes, pies There will be a mid-December Cllr Teresa Finnigan and local biscuits, chocolates and market (with a festive flavour), so gins. keep up to date with what will be on Redbourn Museum News We were delighted that Redbourn Village Museum’s garden was awarded First Prize by Redbourn in Bloom in their Community Building category. Congratulations and thank you to our regular gardening volunteers, led by Barry Welch. Line is constructed from many garden We have recently agreed to loan Although the museum has remained implements and general tools from some items of the collection to closed since lockdown in March, the the museum’s collection. We hope Redbourn Primary School as an gardeners have continued to work visitors were impressed and outreach activity, which similarly Covid-safely to keep the grounds managed to identify some of the could be arranged with other groups looking lovely. We encouraged various components and their original or individuals for research purposes. functions. villagers to view the garden from the Please contact curators, Maria Common during their daily exercise Villagers called the train “Puffing Maynard or Diane Whiskin with any and have allowed some groups to Annie” because of the noise the requests via the museum e-mail: meet in the garden for a little more engine made when climbing the [email protected] privacy and chairs for their gradients, especially leaving Hemel gatherings, still limited to 6 people. Hempstead towards Redbourn. We were extremely sorry to have to cancel our 20th anniversary In September we held Open Garden Due to the seniority of many celebration, Steam Day, and other afternoons and unveiled “Puffing volunteer stewards, the Trustees fundraising events, including the Annie”, our new installation, designed have decided not to open the annual outing and film show and by Linda Owen and fabricated by museum for the remainder of the year sincerely hope that these can go Jimmy Millers. This representation of to avoid putting anyone at risk. ahead in 2021. a steam locomotive from the Nickey
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A recent NHS Blood donation session in RVH
Redbourn Village Hall (RVH) will be celebrating its centenary as a community building in March 2021 - a 100 years at the centre of Redbourn life for events, classes, clubs, meetings, groups, socializing, friendship and life celebrations. The Redbourn Village Hall Management Committee (RVHMC) had been planning to celebrate with a weekend of fun events, inviting as many Redbourn residents to visit and enjoy the hall as possible. Unfortunately, these plans have been put on hold due to current uncertain times. Instead the RVH Centenary will focus on expanding the RVHMC to include more of the Redbourn Community, updating the governing document and planning for RVH’s next hundred years! If you have any family photos and stories of RVH or events from the last 100 years please share them with us to record RVH’s Centenary. RVH is run as a registered Charity (No. 302450) with a committee who meet monthly and the day to day running of RVH looked after by the Manager and Caretakers. We are particularly looking for new Committee members with an interest in marketing, fundraising and legal experience, though anyone from the Redbourn community who is keen to support RVH will be very welcome. If you have a skill, idea or project to support and develop RVH we’d love to hear from you. After shutting on the 21st March 2020 RVH re- opened on the 4th of July and it was wonderful to welcome back the activities as the restrictions lifted and to once again have people enjoying the things they love doing. Sadly we’re now in Lockdown 2.0 but as RVH is a “Covid Secure Site” we will be able to open again as and when government restrictions allow. The large Main Hall provides a big space for activities and gives room to socially distance easily. The Centenary Room provides a good space to hold smaller groups when allowed. RVH provides space for people to use safely whilst enjoying their hobbies and sharing the company of their friends after such a long time apart. Jane Owen (RVH Manager) Get in touch: 07712 658587 or 01582 792822 [email protected] www.redbournvillagehall.org.uk @Redbourn-Village-Hall
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REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL COUNCILLOR CONTACT DETAILS BEAUMONT WARD NICHOLLS WARD
David Mitchell Dennis Bigham 07973 418124 07944 445350 [email protected] [email protected]
Colin O’Donovan Ian Caldwell 01582 792382 or 07860 631463 07528 741947 [email protected] [email protected]
Steven Kidd David Fenton 07738 706679 07515 353138 [email protected] [email protected]
Teresa Finnigan Roger Gray 07968 171654 01582 762914 [email protected] [email protected]
Maria Maynard Pat Schofield 01582 793478 01582 793096 [email protected] [email protected]
Victoria Mead Symon Vegro 01582 792280 or 07506 719922 07912 398000 [email protected] [email protected]
DISTRICT COUNCILLORS COUNTY COUNCILLOR
David Mitchell Annie Brewster 07973 418124 01438 832255 [email protected] [email protected]
Victoria Mead - details as above MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
Bim Afolami Tony Swendell 01582 761796 01582 792076 [email protected] [email protected] www.bimafolami.co.uk
Published by: Redbourn Parish Circulation: Redbourn news is delivered Council free to 2300 homes and business in the Printed by: Print Shop St Albans parish of Redbourn
Editor: Becky Firth Advertising rates: [email protected] 1/4 page £45, Advertising: Vicky Kidd 1/2 page £85, [email protected] Full page £165,
The views expressed in Redbourn News are not necessarily those of the editor or of Redbourn Parish Council, unless specifically stated. The editor reserves the right to modify, shorten or not use material supplied. All adverts, artwork, photos submitted are accepted in good faith copyright free. Redbourn Parish Council nor the editor are responsible for goods or services advertised.