ABOUT ATFORD

Summer 2019

Big Events return to this summer watfordbigevents.co.uk Welcome to the summer edition of About Watford.

According to an Office of National Statistics study last year, Watford residents were the happiest in . Although not everything is perfect about our town, there are lots of great things about living in Watford. We have excellent local schools, good transport links, a strong family friendly community and fantastic parks and green spaces.

Often residents tell me one of the favourite things about living in the town is Peter Taylor our parks. In Watford, we have the highest number of Green Flag awards for our Elected Mayor of parks and green spaces in Hertfordshire. Park is one of the most Watford popular parks in the country and it regularly wins national awards. None of www.watford.gov. this has happened by accident. Despite big reductions in funding from central uk/electedmayor government, we have invested in improving our parks and green spaces, which are so important to people living in our town.

You can read in the pages of this edition of About Watford about how we are continuing to invest in making our parks even better. We have started work on improving Park, including building a new café, creating new children’s play areas and skateboarding facilities for local young people. This work is already underway and the new facilities will be completed next year. This will provide activities for residents of all ages but particularly our young people.

Throughout the summer, there’ll also be plenty of free events for residents to enjoy. This includes our popular Big Screen and Big Beach events on The Parade at the top of town as well as free swim and gym sessions for under 19s to take advantage of. I’m pleased that we are continuing to invest in the things that really matter to local people. You can find out more at watfordbigevents.co.uk.

I hope everyone in Watford has an enjoyable summer and fingers crossed the weather will be as good as last year!

If you have an issue that you think I might be able to help with, please get in touch at [email protected] or call my office number on01923 278371.

Published by . This magazine is printed on chlorine free paper, made from sustainable forests and costs 22p to print and distribute. Please recycle it when you have finished with it. This magazine is available on our website. It can be downloaded as a PDF document and also as an audio file.

2 About Watford Summer 2019 ABOUT ATFORD

Features Election update - Borough elections roundup 4 Audentior Awards - Celebrating the people of Watford 5 Watford’s green and pleasant land - Get out and about this summer 6 Getting green fingered this summer - Allotments and green gym 7 Young people inspired by Kicks Cup - Social inclusion for 6 - 19 year-olds through the power of football 8 Mayor’s Small Grants Fund - Apply now for up to £3,000 9 Dementia Friendly Watford - Give us your views to help improve the services on offer to people with dementia 10 Major projects update - St Albans Road, Clarendon Road, Watfod Riverwell, Croxley View 12 Waste and recycling - Help us to keep Watford green and clean 16 Get into the swing of things - At West Herts Golf Club 18 Big Bandstand - Head over to Cassiobury Park this summer to enjoy some great live entertainment for free 22 Combatting rough sleeping in Watford - Working with partners to help the homeless 24 News in brief - Pensioners’ Forum, tackling modern slavery, Herts Pride 26 What’s on! 28 Trishaw rides - For our elderly residents 30 Your councillors 31

WE’RE HERE TO HELP IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS Sign up to our www.watford.gov.uk e-newsletter to Email: [email protected] receive Telephone: 01923 226400 Watford Borough Council, Town Hall, Watford, WD17 3EX information of Customer Service Centre open Monday to Thursday 8.45am to 5.15pm and Friday 8.45am to 4.45pm interest to you. Visit www.watford.gov. uk/newsletter watfordcouncil

www.watford.gov.uk 3 Residents have their say in 2019 local elections Five new councillors have won seats in the recent local elections and a new honorary Chair has been appointed to the council for the coming year who will carry out a range of ambassadorial and charitable duties on behalf of the town.

13 out of 36 councillor seats were l Oxhey – Cllr Imran Hamid l Tudor – Cllr Joe Fahmy (Liberal contested in the recent local (Liberal Democrat) Democrat) election on 2 May. Each ward – or l Stanborough – Cllr Tim Williams l Vicarage – Cllr Jagtar Singh area of town – is represented by (Liberal Democrat) Dhindsa (Labour) three councillors. Residents in Watford voted for one councillor The new Chair of Watford self-sufficiency skills and looking for each of the wards (except for Borough Council has been after their children’s health and Meriden ward where there were named as Cllr Asif Khan education. two vacancies). (pictured below) who represents Leggatts ward. Cllr Khan said: “I am honoured Five new councillors and privileged to be made elected Cllr Khan will spend his year Chairman of the council. I will in office fundraising for his work with my fellow councillors, l Callowland – Cllr Dawn Allen- chosen charities. These are the the whole community and Williamson (Liberal Democrat) Starfish paediatric ward at West charities to advocate and l Holywell – Cllr Favour Ezeifedi Hertfordshire Hospital NHS Trust highlight the very best of Watford (Labour) and the Rwandan Sisterhood, a - a town that is inclusive, tolerant l Meridan Cllr Jennifer Pattinson small charity in Rwanda set up and caring for all its residents.” (Liberal Democrat) to support and educate women For a full list of councillors and their contact l Park – Cllr Jessica Stiff (Liberal about their health, developing details, see page 31. Democrat) l Woodside – Cllr Richard Wenham (Liberal Democrat)

Seven councillors retained their seats l Central – Cllr Rabi Martins (Liberal Democrat) l Leggatts – Cllr Asif Khan (Labour) l Meriden – Cllr Amanda Grimston (Liberal Democrat) l Nascot – Cllr Mark Hofman (Liberal Democrat)

4 About Watford Summer 2019 Celebrate the stars of our town!

Do you know an individual, group or organisation who is working to make Watford a better place to live and work in? If so, nominate them for an Audentior Award, which recognises and celebrates their commitment, hard work and positive impact on our town.

You can nominate time to working in the following behind the scenes at categories: local sporting clubs and groups. Carer of the Year Chairman’s This award Culture Award recognises the For an individual or selfless carers who organisation that has have gone above contributed to raising and beyond to help the profile of the others - whether as arts in Watford; art, Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor (centre), with Watford Observer part of their job, as Editor Victoria Birch (second right) and previous Audentior Award winners amateur dramatics or a volunteer or as a family music. This person may be member looking after a loved one. someone who takes pride in their the star of the show or they could local area by creating community work behind the scenes, helping to Charity Worker of the Year gardens, painting local spaces, make it happen. This award recognises the upcycling or encouraging others amazing contribution a volunteer to recycle. Mayor’s Award or paid worker has shown to A very special achievement the charity sector. Whether it’s Young Achiever of the award celebrating a person for volunteering in a shop, fundraising Year (25 and under) their outstanding contribution or operating a helpline, there are The winner of this award could and dedication to the town. The hundreds of people in Watford be a young person who has Elected Mayor will nominate three giving back on a daily basis. overcome personal difficulties and people and the public will vote for now helps others to make good their favourite. Public Service Award choices; someone who organises This award could be an out-of-school activities to divert Nominations close outstanding teacher/teaching young people away from crime; or Friday 19 July 2019 assistant, a police officer who an outstanding apprentice. has shown remarkable courage/ Shortlist is announced and bravery or a dedicated NHS Contribution to Sport and public voting for the Mayor’s worker. It could also be a Healthy Living Award starts Friday firefighter or bus driver that has For an individual or club that has 6 September 2019. gone the extra mile. contributed to helping people Awards dinner: Friday 11 in Watford to lead healthier lives Pride in Watford by promoting or encouraging October 2019 at Watford This award recognises residents more participation in sport or Collosseum. who dedicate their time and by representing Watford in their Nominate and vote at: energy keeping Watford clean and chosen sport. It is also to celebrate audentiorawards.co.uk green. Get nominating if you know and thank those who give their

www.watford.gov.uk 5 Enjoy the award-winning great outdoors in Watford 12 of Watford’s 40 parks and open spaces have been recognised by the national Green Flag Award Scheme as being amongst some of the best in the country. For the fourth year running we have more flags than anywhere else in Hertfordshire!

Watford’s Green Flag Parks

Cassiobury Park, Woodside Playing Fields, Cheslyn House and Gardens, Waterfields Recreation Ground (centre), Callowland Recreation Ground, Orchard Park, Oxhey Park, St Mary’s Churchyard (left), Goodwood Recreation Ground (centre, bottom), Paddock Road Parks and open spaces play Allotments, a crucial role in enhancing Cemetery and Harwoods the quality of life for local Recreation Ground. communities in Watford. By providing attractive and Construction has welcoming places for people to started at Oxhey meet, parks and open spaces are a great way of bringing our Activity Park Watford communities together.

Most parks and open spaces are open seven days a week and have fenced off children’s playgrounds. For more information, visit www. watford.gov.uk/parks

Last year, the jewel in Watford’s crown - Cassiobury Park managed by Watford Borough Council and Veolia - had an overwhelmingly successful year, receiving five accolades. Along with the Green Flag, the park was awarded the People’s Choice, Building For more information, visit Futures, Landscape Institute and oxheyactivitypark.co.uk Horticulture Custodian Awards.

6 About Watford Summer 2019 Getting green-fingered this summer Do you enjoy getting out and about in the fresh air and being active? Here in Watford there are plenty of opportunities for you to explore the great outdoors and, while doing so, you’ll be helping to keep our community and yourself in great shape! There’s nothing better than working in the great outdoors with a group of like-minded people, so whether you want to learn some traditional countryside skills, grow your own food, or just want to get out in the fresh air and burn some energy, there’s something for everyone. This includes:

Allotments - Watford has a thriving allotment community with around 800 local people regularly growing their own produce at one of the 12 well-established sites in Green Gym - This unique scheme Become a volunteer… - We need the town. helps local residents to get fit and different types of support from healthy through conservation volunteers to help maintain There are currently spaces work such as tree planting, step local parks and open spaces. It available to anyone interested in construction, path improvements could be helping with planning taking up allotment gardening. A and hay making. Volunteers have future management, clearing typical plot rental ranges from £27 been working in Cassiobury Park, river banks, conducting wildlife to £54 per year depending on size. and along the River surveys or consultation with Our partner Veolia manages the Colne, helping to transform these users. If you want to get involved, allotments and the renting of the areas and support the habitat for visit www.watford.gov.uk/ plots. To apply visit: www.watford. local wildlife. Visit www.watford. parksvolunteering for more gov.uk/allotments gov.uk/greengym information.

Friends in Green Spaces (FIGS) Funding – Veolia and Watford Borough Council want to do more to support everyone volunteering in our green spaces, so a small fund of £1,500 is available to help with your projects in parks. To apply, visit www.watford.gov.uk/ parksvolunteering

www.watford.gov.uk 7 Young people inspired by Premier League Kicks Cup

A social inclusion project - Premier League Kicks – is being delivered by Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust (The Trust) across Watford, Harrow and Hillingdon to inspire and engage young people aged 6-19.

Offering a range of activities including: sports, dance, coaching, youth club and educational and personal development sessions, the scheme aims to help local authorities to create safer, stronger and more respectful communities.

The Trust’s team of qualified coaches provides young people with work experience Crystal Palace on penalties. The is showing great dedication and opportunities, voluntary competition had more than enthusiasm towards volunteering positions and the chance to 700 young people representing and demonstrating real maturity study for nationally recognised 65 professional clubs coming beyond his years! qualifications. They also raise together to play football and form awareness of current issues friendships. To find out more please contact including: substance misuse, knife [email protected] crime, healthy living and cyber Aaron has attended the Kicks or call 020 8421 4676. bullying. session at the Meriden Community Hertfordshire based sessions Centre from 2015 and since then l Kicks - Monday 6pm-8pm The project also increases he has represented the Watford (Ages 11-19) – Meriden playing opportunities through FC CSE Trust in an U14 Matchday Community Centre representing the Trust in 11-a-side Package, completed the Junior l Mini-Kicks – Tuesday 5pm-6pm fixtures against other Premier Football Leaders Award, coached (School Years 3, 4, 5 & 6) – League clubs, at regional the Mini-Kicks sessions, been Meriden Community Centre tournaments and matchday nominated as a Watford FC CSE l Dance for Girls – Tuesday 5pm- packages, creating invaluable Trust Champion and named 7pm (Ages 8-14) – Meriden Community Centre opportunities for participants, as winner of the Jack Petchey l Mini Kicks – Thursday 5pm-6pm well as referrals into the Trust’s Achievement Award. (School Years 1 & 2) – Meriden Player Development Centre. Community Centre Daniel Proberts, Football and l Kicks – Friday 6pm-8pm (Ages 11- In April, the U16s representing Sport Project Officer said “Aaron 19) – Woodside (Watford Leisure the Trust won the Premier is a highly regarded individual Centre) League Kicks National Cup 2019 at the Meriden Community l Kicks – Friday 7pm-9pm (Ages at Warwick University, beating Centre. At a very young age he 11-19) –

8 About Watford Summer 2019 Communities are invited to apply to the Mayor’s Small Grants Fund

Did you know that if you run a ‘not for profit’ community group in Watford you can apply to the council for a grant of up to £3,000? This can help fund a project or community initiative or be used to purchase a piece of much-needed equipment.

As long as the funding is used for filmmakers. He’s doing it again this the benefit of local people, any year with the film festival taking group can apply for the grant at place on 27 and 28 July at Watford www.watford.gov.uk/mayors- Museum and the Pump House smallgrants. The applications Theatre. deadline for this financial year is 14 January 2020. Here are just Other beneficiaries of the Small some examples of projects that Grants Fund include the Watford have benefited from funding in the Interfaith Association who used the past. funding to create a Peace Garden in Cassiobury Park, Playskill who Electric Umbrella is a vibrant, created an additional play session unique co-creation between adults members, we’re really out to for disabled children in Watford and with learning disabilities and challenge perceptions of people Small Acts of Kindness to provide professional musicians used the with learning disabilities.” 150 ‘Warm in Winter’ gift bags fund to pay for their music tour for distribution to older people in around Hertfordshire. Charlotte The Watford Short Film Festival Watford who are identified as being from Electric Umbrella said: “It’s was launched with of support cold in their homes. helped massively, we’ve been able from the 2017-2018 Small Grants to set up this wonderful annual Fund. Former event - our music tour around the student James Dyer was able to county. We try and target groups bring his ambitions to life and that wouldn’t normally get access put his hometown on the map by to live music and showcase our hosting a competition for budding

Get in touch at www.watford.gov.uk/ mayors-smallgrants

Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor with members of Electric Umbrella

www.watford.gov.uk 9 Making Watford dementia friendly When Mayor Peter Taylor took office last year he set out his vision to make Watford a dementia friendly town, to better support the 1000+ residents who have the condition and the people who care for them. A testament to that commitment is the town’s first ever Dementia Action Week which took place in May. Delivered with a range of The week kicked off with an things a talk on the power of partners, Dementia Action exhibition at intu and included mindfulness. Week featured five days of a virtual reality dementia bus events and activities aimed at experience which gave an insight Over 80 people attended a people with dementia and their into the isolating world that so therapeutic singing session carers, Watford residents and many Watford residents currently delivered by charity Herts Musical its business community. The experience every day. Memories at the newly refurbished ambition was to raise awareness St Mary’s Church on the High of the condition but also to show Watford FC and the Watford & Street which partner Alexis how important it is to provide West Herts Chamber of Commerce Neighbour from Home Instead activities, places and services and Conscience hosted a described as the highlight of the that people with dementia and Celebration of Carers lunch at the week: “The feedback we received their carers can access and enjoy football club with over 50 carers from carers and people living so they continue to be included from across the town taking part with dementia was absolutely in our town. and enjoying amongst other fantastic. We have already booked the church in early December for Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor lending his support at one of the sessions during Dementia Action Week another session to take place.”

Key to making the town dementia friendly is to get as many residents and workers in Watford to join the Dementia Friends campaign which aims to transform the way the nation thinks, talks and acts about the condition. Residents and business people attended the Dementia Friends sessions and plans are underway to hold more sessions over the coming year.

The week finished with a ‘Pampering Day’ at intu shopping centre for people with dementia and their carers.

10 About Watford Summer 2019 Dementia can have a huge impact on someone’s life and on those around them. That’s why I’m passionate about Watford becoming a dementia friendly town. There are many little things that organisations, businesses A resident who is a carer said: engaged with the Dementia and individuals across “I’ve attended three events during Friends campaign and related the town can do to make Dementia Action Week (the virtual training, creating a social space the lives of those living reality dementia bus, Watford FC in the town centre specifically for event and the Dementia Friends people with dementia and their with dementia and their session). I’ve learnt small facts carers and creating an information carers a little easier and that will help my dad. It’s good to hub that lists all of the activities, that includes this share experiences with others. events, clubs, places and spaces council. I’d definitely recommend these that are dementia friendly across sessions and it’s good to see Watford and neighbouring areas Elected Mayor Peter Taylor Watford changing and listening.” and all of the organisations who are providing support. What comes next? Survey launched to find For more information go to www. out how town can be Over the next year Watford dementiafriendlywatford.com improved for people living Borough Council and partners will with dementia be working towards Alzheimer’s Partners Society accreditation as a Watford Borough Council has dementia friendly town. l Everyone l Watford FC launched a new survey specifically Active l Watford and l Home Instead West Herts aimed at people living with We will focus on three things: l intu Chamber of dementia and their carers. We’d getting all of the business l Alzheimers Commerce and like to hear your views about Society Conscience community and their staff things you find challenging while out and about in the town and things that could be improved.

Fill in the survey at surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ dementia-survey-2019

www.watford.gov.uk 11 Major Projects update Watford: a Premier League town in more ways than one

With its thriving town centre, fantastic shopping, nightclubs and restaurants, a Premier League football team, theatres, award-winning parks and a global business community, Watford continues to be a fantastic place to live, work, visit and do business in. Watford Borough Council and footpaths, upgrading the Eat, drink, have fun, has ambitious plans to keep traffic lights, lamp columns and repeat! intu Watford just the improvements coming, street furniture and enhancing keeps getting better working with partners to the overall look and feel of the deliver multi-million pound junction to create an improved Two new restaurants - Côte regeneration schemes that ‘gateway’ to the town centre. Brasserie and The Florist - have continue to transform our town. joined the new £180m atrium Here are just some of the new These works represent the first in extension of intu Watford, developments and projects: a series of major improvements which features a nine-screen being carried out along Clarendon IMAX Cineworld, Hollywood Gateway to town centre Road to Watford Junction until Bowl, restaurants, shops, and a significantly improved March 2025. The key aim is to brand new three-storey flagship create a sense of arrival for the Debenhams. Significant improvements have millions of people coming through now been completed at the Watford Junction every year. intu Watford is one of the region’s junction of Clarendon Road and Improvement works between largest indoor shopping and Beechen Grove in Watford. These Beechen Grove and St Johns Road leisure destinations, with over include resurfacing the road are planned for July. 140 retailers such as Karen Millen, Apple, Zara, H&M and variety of fantastic places to eat including Gourmet Burger Kitchen, TGI Fridays, Yo!Sushi and MOD Pizza.

Hugely popular with families, the centre offers a range of activities for children including Rock Up, an indoor climbing experience and regular free events and activities provided by intu throughout the year. Visit www.intu.co.uk/watford Rock Up Clarendon Road and Beechen Grove junction and Beechen Grove Road Clarendon

12 About Watford Summer 2019 The Florist

Local residents and It is used by thousands of people think this stretch of St Albans businesses share their every day and many businesses Road could be improved. Make ideas on revitalising St and residents are based there. sure you have your say at www. Albans Road We want your views on how you stalbansroad.co.uk.”

Watford Borough Council has allocated £400k of funding to improve a key stretch of St Albans Road (from Brixton Road to Balmoral Road) and we are asking local businesses, and residents to share their views on the improvements they’d like to see. Ideas so far include: new street furniture, improved paving, tree planting, more cycle friendly routes and changes to the look and feel of the area. St Albans Road Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “St Albans Road is a key route into and out of our town.

www.watford.gov.uk 13 Major Projects update First residents find their new homes at Watford Riverwell

Watford’s Riverwell development celebrated another significant milestone in May as it welcomed the first residents to their new homes on the Woodlands site.

Woodlands, the first residential zone to be delivered as part of the overall Riverwell scheme, comprises 95 homes across three buildings, offering one, two and three-bedroom apartments in a wooded setting, overlooking the River Colne. The new neighbourhood includes extensive soft landscaping to complement the picturesque woodland surroundings, along with car parking and cycle storage.

One of the three Woodlands which are owned and managed by Taylor), who currently works as an buildings is dedicated to affordable Watford Community Housing. Ear, Nose and Throat specialist at housing, with 29 apartments Watford General Hospital, is one of made up of a mixture of shared Dr Farrukh Mohammad (pictured the new residents. As a first time ownership and rented homes above with Elected Mayor Peter buyer, Dr Mohammad decided on a home at Woodlands after a four year long search for his perfect property.

He said: “My property search has been on-going for a number of years purely because I have been moving around a lot due to my work placements at various hospitals. I looked at a mix of established homes and new build developments and decided that I wanted a new property with a contemporary, fresh finish. After being stationed at Watford General Hospital for the last 18 months, I finally found a home that met all of my requirements.”

14 About Watford Summer 2019 Major Projects update Hart Homes celebrates the completion of its first homes

Watford Borough Council and Watford Community Housing’s ground-breaking joint development venture, Hart Homes, celebrates the completion of its first new affordable housing development.

Situated on Tolpits Lane in Watford, the development is delivering much-needed affordable homes for local people across two phases. The first phase of the works on Croxley View is now complete, and residents have moved into their new homes.

The new residential blocks that make up the development are Buckskin Court, which contains 14 one and two-bedroom apartments, and Pearl Court, which contains 22 one and two-bedroom homes. All of Elected Mayor of Watford Peter affordable homes our town needs. the properties in this development Taylor added: “By working in We’re enabling people to have are offered at affordable rent and, partnership, the council and decent homes of their own and as of April 2019, every apartment Watford Community Housing are creating strong communities, has been allocated to people in making better use of our land which is so important.” need of a home. and delivering the modern and

www.watford.gov.uk 15 Delivering a greener, cleaner town One of Watford Borough Council’s key priorities is to create a greener more sustainable town. Here are just some of the things you can do – whether it’s reusing or recycling materials, clothes swapping or refilling water bottles – to help us achieve this goal.

Have you heard about Refill? Items which we can’t collect in your blue-lidded bin You may already know that many restaurants and cafés in Watford Items such as clothes hangers, toys, garden furniture offer free tap water refills in your and storage containers can’t be recycled in your reusable bottles, to cut down on blue-lidded bin. Instead, take them to your nearest single plastic use. We’re working Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) or on increasing the number of donate to your local charity shop. Your nearest businesses in the local area HWRCs are: signed up to Refill, which means l Waterdale (Garston) Household Waste Recycling that they’ll have a sticker displayed in their shop Centre, St Albans Road WD25 0PR front window to let you know that they’re taking l Rickmansworth Household Waste Recycling part in the scheme. Find out more about Refill Centre, Riverside Drive WD3 1FS at www.watford.gov.uk/refill

Clothes recycling banks or charity shops

Good quality clothes can be donated to charity shops, or sold online through websites like eBay, Gumtree, Freecycle or social media community groups. But if you have clothes with holes, or items that are beyond repair, take them to your local clothes banks. Clothes donated here will be shredded and broken down and made into something else. A council-owned clothes bank is located next to Watford Central Library, but there are many others in the town. Visit the Recycle Now locator at recyclenow.com/local-recycling.

Thank you to the 300 Watford Come along to our next clothes swap residents, businesses, schools We’re holding another clothes swap on Thursday 26 and community groups for helping to clear 72 bags of September 2019. Come along with your good quality litter and 20 bags of recyclable unwanted clothes and swap them for others – for free! litter such as plastic bottles More details coming soon. Please keep an eye on and drinks cans as part of the www.watford.gov.uk/clothesswap for more Great British Spring Clean. information.

16 About Watford Summer 2019 Recycle your batteries Did you know that these can be recycled? Just take them to your nearest recycling point, which can be found in most shops that sell batteries. Find your nearest at bringbackheavymetal.co.uk.

Electrical bank You can get rid of small electrical items that have a plug – such as toasters or hairdryers or items that use batteries – such as children’s toys at electrical banks or at a Household Waste and Recycling Centre. You can find a council-owned electrical bank next to Watford Central Library.

Keeping your street neat and tidy

We need your help to keep Watford looking neat l Make sure bin lids are closed and tidy, especially on bin collection days. Follow l Do not put out any extra non-recyclable waste by the these handy tips to keep your street looking side of your bin or on top of it – this will not be collected shipshape: l For information about what to do with extra waste l Number all of your bins visit www.watford.gov.uk/extrarubbish l Put bins out by 6am on collection day or the night l Contact Veolia within 24 hours of your collection before and bring them in from the street on the day online at www.watford.gov.uk/mybinday or same day call 020 3567 6900 if your bin is missed or not l Leave bins on the pavement in front of your property returned correctly

Fly tipping

Fly tipping is the illegal dumping of waste, such as you see a fly tip that requires clearing, you can report bags of rubbish or big, bulky items. This includes it to Veolia on 020 3567 6900 or at www.watford. furniture, large electrical items or building waste gov.uk/flytipping. left beside street bins, recycling banks and outside closed Household Waste Recycling Centres and When you need to dispose of waste, please ensure charity shops. that you use a registered waste carrier. If you employ someone to take away your waste and they fly tip it, If you’re caught dumping waste illegally, you could you could be held responsible for the offence. receive a Fixed Penalty Notice or a summons to Information on licensed waste carriers can be found appear at a magistrates court where you could be at www.watford.gov.uk/flytipping or hertfordshire. fined and have to pay costs. Anyone witnessing fly gov.uk/flytipping. For more information visit tipping in progress should call the police on 101. If hertfordshire.gov.uk/flytipping. Book a bulky waste collection You can book a bulky waste collection service for items such as mattresses, washing machines or fridges by calling Veolia on 020 3567 6900. Find out more at www.watford.gov.uk/bulkywaste

www.watford.gov.uk 17 Get into the swing of things at West Herts Golf Club

Whether you are a seasoned golfer or have recently been inspired by seeing Tiger Woods or Georgie Hall on TV, you may not know that there is a fabulous golf course on your doorstep!

Situated in what was the over the years with a number Cassiobury Estate across the representing both county and canal from Cassiobury Park, country and some even turning West Herts Golf Club was professional and playing on the established in 1890. Over the tour circuit. years the club has been home to a number of influential The club is a great venue for characters including former private functions with the lounge Prime Minister, Lord A J Balfour. bar having the capacity for over 120 people to enjoy a seated meal. The club’s membership is inclusive The recently renovated terrace with thriving ladies and junior Charles Gough, the club pro for offers a stunning view over the sections to compliment a very over 40 years, leads the 6 - 18s course and is the perfect spot for competitive men’s section. The junior academy. One of the largest a summer drink or even a West club has a limited number of in the county, it has over 80 Herts afternoon tea. For more membership vacancies available, members who benefit from weekly information about West Herts Golf but is also open to visitors and coaching and development. It Club, visit: westhertsgolfclub. group/corporate golf days. has produced some fine players co.uk or tel: 01923 236484. Everyone Active As the golf course is run in partnership with Watford Borough Council, if you are a Watford resident, you can get up to 50% off West Herts Golf Club’s standard green fees. All you need to do is have an Everyone Active card. They are available free of charge from Watford Leisure Centre - WOODSIDE on tel: 01923 892710 or Watford Leisure Centre - CENTRAL on tel: 01923 296750.

18 About Watford Summer 2019 WATFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL Free and fun activities this summer holiday Following on from the hugely successful Easter activities, Watford Borough Council is hosting a range of free, fun and challenging activities during the summer holiday for children and young people aged from ive to 15.

The fun starts on Monday 29 July All sessions are free and no booking all the way through to Saturday is required so feel free to turn up to 31 August. as many sessions as you wish. There’ll be a range of activities to Due to recent data protection enjoy including drama workshops, changes (GDPR), it is now necessary dance academy, singing and our for all children and young people popular stage school. to be registered by a parent or You can also let your imagination responsible adult. guide you on an adventure as you For more information keep an eye become a swash-buckling pirate on our website watford.gov.uk/play or how about saving the world as a and don’t forget to follow us on superhero or joining in some Wild Facebook, Twitter or Instagram West fun? Use your creativity in our @watfordcouncil arts and crafts sessions or let out your competitive side in our sport sessions, guaranteed to keep you active. All activities will take place in parks, open spaces and various indoor venues across Watford.

JOIN US THIS SUMMER HOLIDAY . ADVENTURE PLAY .

STAGE . SCHOOL . ARTS & . CRAFTS . WATFORD.GOV.UK/PLAY WATFORD BIG EVENTS

BIG BANDSTAND JULY TO SEPTEMBER OWN THE STAGE JULY TO SEPTEMBER BIG SCREEN 26 JULY TO 9 AUGUST BIG JIVESWING 28 JULY BIG BEACH 16 TO 30 AUGUST BIG SPORTS 7 SEPTEMBER COLOURSCAPE 28 & 29 SEPTEMBER FIREWORKS 2 NOVEMBER

WATFORDBIGEVENTS.CO.UK

watfordcouncil WATFORD BIG EVENTS

BIG BANDSTAND JULY TO SEPTEMBER OWN THE STAGE JULY TO SEPTEMBER BIG SCREEN 26 JULY TO 9 AUGUST BIG JIVESWING 28 JULY BIG BEACH 16 TO 30 AUGUST BIG SPORTS 7 SEPTEMBER COLOURSCAPE 28 & 29 SEPTEMBER FIREWORKS 2 NOVEMBER

WATFORDBIGEVENTS.CO.UK watfordcouncil FREEBIG BANDSTAND FREE live shows in Cassiobury Park throughout the

summer SCAN FOR FULL LISTINGS

Sunday Folk In The 12 - 5pm 7 July Park Day Sunday One Voice 2 - 4pm 14 July Choir Sunday Sienna 2 - 4pm 21 July Melella Sunday Big 10am - 28 July JiveSwing 6pm Sunday Tony Oliver 2 - 4pm 4 August Jazz Days Sunday Music, 12 - 4pm 11 August Manta and Meditation Sunday Grimsdyke 2 - 4pm 18 August Band Sunday Gospal 2 - 4pm 25 August Manna Sunday 1 Rock Chorus 2 - 4pm September Sunday 8 Sam 2 - 4pm September Winston Sunday 15 Trinity 2 - 4pm September Swing Sunday 22 Watford 2 - 4pm September Brass Band

WATFORDBIGEVENTS.CO.UK/BIGBANDSTAND

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The challenge of combatting rough sleeping in Watford Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor explains how Watford Borough Council and partners are working together to support people to get off and stay off the streets and how new government funding is delivering vital outreach resources.

The Watford Strategic Homelessness Forum has been playing a key role. Brought together by Watford Borough Council in 2016, it is a 16-strong network of key organisations doing fantastic work in Watford to combat homelessness and rough sleeping.

These partners working together have: l Brought new government funding into the town to work directly with rough sleepers on the streets. The new outreach team will be starting work in the next few weeks whilst the intervention team is continuing to provide support to several dozen people who are either rough sleeping or in danger of l Worked with local faith groups rough sleepers currently in hostels doing so. to hold a very successful winter to move on to and preparing to run night shelter for rough sleepers a further four month winter night Watford Strategic every night over the period 1 shelter from 1 December 2019. Homelessness Forum December 2018 to 31 March 2019. New Hope, GROW, OneYMCA, How you can help hertsyounghomeless, JobCentre l Published a set of best practice Connect the rough Plus, Citizens Advice Watford, guidelines for working with Watford Community Housing, rough sleepers which is sleepers you see to New Hightown, Aldwyck, Origin available on the council’s Hope or volunteer with Housing, the Meadowell Surgery, CGL Spectrum, website. or donate to one of the Hertfordshire County Council, charities offering support NHS Hertfordshire Partnership The work of Homelessness Forum services in Watford. University, Watford Borough partners is not stopping there – it’s Council, the Watford Community looking at applying for further Safety Partnership newhope.org.uk funding for homes for former

24 About Watford Summer 2019

NEWS IN BRIEF

Councillors unanimously agree to adopt anti-modern slavery charter

Watford councillors have agreed to support the movement to eradicate modern day slavery which affects over 40 million people worldwide including one in four children. They have signed up to a new charter that requires all council contractors and suppliers to comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015. The council’s procurement team will also undergo training so they can better understand the issues and challenges.

First Pensioners’ Forum takes place at Town Hall

Watford Borough Council, in partnership with Watford & Three Rivers Trust, held its first Pensioner’s Forum in March.

Hosted by Deputy Mayor, Councillor Karen Collett, the forum gave people the opportunity to have their say on a range of issues, to hear about what’s happening in the town and to receive advice. A second forum is being held on Tuesday 9 July from 2 to 4pm at . To book a place or find out more visit: www.watford.gov.uk/forum. You can also email [email protected] or call 01923 216967.

26 About Watford Summer 2019 Celebrate diversity at Herts Pride 2019

Hertfordshire’s Biggest and Best LGBT*Q festival is back in Watford for 2019. Celebrating equality and diversity, it brings different communities together from across the county for a day of family fun and friendship.

Key features of this year’s event include a big top packed full of live entertainment, a dog show and a health and wellbeing marquee - all of this alongside, food stalls, a market and funfair attractions. Pride takes place on Saturday 31 August in Cassiobury Park from 12pm to 10pm. www.hertspride.co.uk (L-R) Paul Richmond, Watford Community Housing; Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor; Sara Bedford, Leader of Council; Clive Duffey; Tyson Martin, Herts Pride Founder hat’s on in and around Watford

July whilst raising money for Watford FC’s Community raise funds for the Firefighters Charity. Sports & Education Trust’s Shape Up programme. britishfirefighterchallenge.co.uk Own the Stage Book online shapeupherts.com/step-up / 01923 July to September 2019, FREE 496391. Watford Short Film Festival High Street, Watford 27 - 28 July 2019, FREE FREE performances taking place in the High Street, Watford Pump House Theatre and Colne River from dancing to singing – come and watch or take Room part. Showcasing some of the best local, national watfordbigevents.co.uk / [email protected] and international filmmaking talent. Open to an audience of avid film fans and film-makers alike. intu screen viewings facebook.com/WatfordShortFilmFestival From 1 July 2019, FREE intu Watford, Atrium Music events Throughout the summer, intu Watford will have a 27 July, 1 September and 28 September 2019, 10am large screen set up in the Atrium with deck chairs Pensioners’ Forum – 4.30pm, FREE so customers can sit and watch in comfort. All the 9 July 2019, 2 - 4pm, FREE intu Watford, Atrium big sporting events like Wimbledon and the Rugby The pensioners’ forum is FREE to attend and a intu Watford will be hosting local musicians in a World-Cup will be shown! No booking required – great way for residents to meet and have their say series of music events working with West Herts just turn up. on a range of issues and chat over tea and cake. College, Vibe Radio and Watford Borough Council. intu.co.uk/watford/whatson www.watford.gov.uk/forum email No booking required – just turn up [email protected] or call 01923 216967 Annie Kids / The Little Mermaid JR Big Jiveswing 2 – 6 July 2019 , 7.30pm with 2:30pm Sat matinee Girls Like That 28 July 2019, FREE Watford Pump House Theatre 11 – 13 July 2019, 7.30pm Cassiobury Park Come and treat the family to a double bill from the Watford Pump House Theatre The Big JiveSwing is a great family day out with Pump House Children Theatre Company. An explosive play that explores the pressures on live cabarets, dance classes for children and adults ticketsource.co.uk/pumphousecyt or phone 0333 young people today in the wake of advancing and a vintage photo booth, all for FREE! 666 3366 technology. ticketsource.co.uk/pumphousecyt / watfordbigevents.co.uk 0333 666 3366 Rum & Reggae Festival 2019 6 July 2019, 7.30pm, tickets £15.00 Heritage talk at The Hub - Moses Cook 20 July 2019, 2 - 3pm, £3 Soak up the Caribbean vibes with an evening of Cassiobury Park Hub DJs, a live reggae band, carnival dancers, rum A talk focusing on Moses Cook the inspirational cocktails and authentic Caribbean food. gardener to the long lost Earls of Essex who was watfordcolosseum.co.uk / 01923 571102 active in the mid- to late-17th century. Much of his inspirational planting design for the Earl’s Estate - now Cassiobury Park, can still be enjoyed today. To book email [email protected]

One Night In Dublin 24 July 2019, 7.30pm, tickets from £26.50 Watford Colosseum Join us for One Night in Dublin and be transported to “Murphy’s Pub” where the house band, The Wild Butterfly Walk - summer butterflies with the Murphys, will be performing. Friends of Cassiobury Park watfordcolosseum.co.uk / 01923 571102 7 July 2019, 2 - 4pm, FREE Cassiobury Park and Whippendell Woods Hairspray Led butterfly walk with local experts. Meet at 25 – 27 July 2019, 7.30pm with 2:30pm Saturday Langley Way Park entrance – weather permitting matinee, tickets from £8.50 the walk will be extended to 6pm for those wishing Watford Pump House Theatre to see late afternoon butterflies. To book email Family-friendly musical piled bouffant-high with [email protected] / phone Peter 078142 laughter, romance and deliriously tuneful songs. To 82356 / email: [email protected] book phone 07914 999984

Step Up for Shape Up - Watford FC stadium stair British Firefighter Challenge Big Screen challenge 27 and 28 July 2019, FREE 26 July to 9 August 2019, FREE 7 July at 7.30pm, tickets from £5 The Parade by the Pond The Parade by the Pond Watford FC Stadium Watford will be hosting the British Firefighter The FREE Big Screen is back at the event space Men, women and children are invited to participate Challenge, which is an annual sporting event by the pond. Come along and watch a wide range in Watford’s biggest step challenge to climb up that pushes firefighters to their limits. Expect a of films – from comedy, action to drama and and down the stands within Watford FC stadium weekend of entertainment for spectators and help animation. watfordbigevents.co.uk

28 About Watford Summer 2019 Myths & Monsters Drama Summer School for 7 - 11s – How to create a Dragon in just one week! 29 July – 2 August 2019, Cost: £100 (sibling discounts available) WATFORD BIG EVENTS Watford Palace Theatre You have one fun-packed week in which to create and perform a play… featuring a dragon! A mix of drama games and magical myths with a performance on the Friday afternoon for friends and family. To book call 01923 225671, email [email protected] or call 01923 810307

Paw Patrol meet and greet 29 July 2019, FREE intu Watford, lower mall outside M&S and Next The Paw Patrol gang are coming into the centre for the day to meet and greet all the little ones of Watford. Tickets go on sale 15 July and are limited. Book online at intu.co.uk/watford/whatson WATFORDBIGEVENTS.CO.UK

Big Beach Seventeen 16 - 30 August 2019, FREE 16 – 21 September 2019, tickets from £10.50 The Parade by the Pond Watford Pump House Theatre The FREE Big Beach is back once again this Adults play teenagers in this funny poignant summer. Come along and soak up the summer sun play that turns the notions of adolescence and on our beach with real sand. adulthood on its head. watfordbigevents.co.uk ticketsource.co.uk/pumphousetheatrecompany / 0333 666 3366 Herts Pride 2019 #PrideandPrejudice Saturday 31 August 2019 12 - 10pm, FREE Clothes swap

Big Bug Tour Cassiobury Park 26 September 2019, drop off between 5 - 6pm, A celebration of Hertfordshire LGBT*Q community, swap between 6.30 - 7.30pm, FREE with live music and entertainment throughout the Watford Pump House Theatre day, Dog Show, Health and Wellbeing, Market area Update your wardrobe with no cost to your wallet and Food Stalls. More information at hertspride. or the environment. Bring along your good quality On With The Show Summer School co.uk clothes and swap them with someone else’s for 29 July – 9 August 2019 FREE. www.watford.gov.uk/clothesswap Watford Pump House Theatre Swim and gym Two week summer project, covering all aspects 29 July - 29 August 2019, FREE The Drifters of putting on a show. Experience and ability not Watford Central and Watford Woodside Leisure 20 September 2019, 7.30pm, tickets from £34 necessary just come and have fun, make friends Centres Watford Colosseum and gain confidence. Under 19s are invited to keep active during the The Drifters are the longest running singing group Book online at owts.co.uk or email school break with FREE access to the Watford in pop history, still performing live, having enjoyed [email protected] Everyone Active leisure centres gyms and over 50 hits world wide. swimming pools during the summer holiday. watfordcolosseum.co.uk / 01923 571102 August everyoneactive.com Jasper Carrott: Stand Up and Rock Big Bug Tour Wat’s On 26 September 2019, 7.30pm, tickets from 1 – 29 August 2019, FREE 29 July - 31 August 2019, FREE £25 intu Watford Watford Borough Council’s programme of FREE Watford Colosseum intu Watford is bringing the outdoors indoors and fun activities and events for children and This tour will see the legendary Jasper to help reconnect people with nature and make young people aged five to 15. The activities will Carrott return with a new stand shoppers happier, with 12 giant bugs around the take place in parks, open spaces and indoor up show alongside his musical centre. intu.co.uk/watford/events locations across Watford. More information at compatriots, the Bev Bevan www.watford.gov.uk/play Band that have been ‘rockin’ Myths & Monsters Drama Summer School for audiences all over the world. 11 - 15s – Heroes & Monsters, five days from comic September watfordcolosseum.co.uk / book to stage! 01923 571102 5 - 9 August 2019, cost £100 (sibling discounts) Big Sports Watford Palace Theatre 7 September 2019, FREE Henning Wehn: Get On With It Unleash your monster imagination with an action- The Parade by the Pond 27 September, 8pm, tickets from packed week of drama, games and theatre-making, Big Sports will be returning to The Parade with a £23.50 where you can be the hero. Bring the world of whole host of sporting and fitness activities for you Watford Colosseum comic books and epic blockbuster films to life with to try out alongside health and wellbeing advice. You couldn’t make it up; surely the a performance on the Friday afternoon for friends watfordbigevents.co.uk German Comedy Ambassador Henning and family. To book call 01923 225671, email Wehn hasn’t bosched out yet another [email protected] or call new show? 01923 810307 watfordcolosseum.co.uk / 01923 571102

The Proclaimers Colourscape 9 August 2019, 7.30pm, tickets from £39 28 and 29 September 2019 Watford Colosseum The Parade by the Pond

It has been 32 years since Scottish twins Craig & The Proclaimers Don a coloured cape and immerse yourself Charlie Reid emerged. The emotional honesty, in a fusion of sound and colour as you wander political fire, wit and sing-along raucousness of through the labyrinth of coloured chambers their songs has fans worldwide. Tickets online at creating your own journey and experience. watfordcolosseum.co.uk / 01923 571102 watfordbigevents.co.uk Jasper Carrott www.watford.gov.uk 29 Breath of fresh air for elderly residents in Watford as trishaw rides are introduced

Older people across Watford will be able to experience the outdoors and nature close-up after an innovative trishaw cycling scheme called ‘The Right to Wind in Your Hair’ was launched in Cassiobury Park by Watford Borough Council, Watford Cycle Hub and Tremona Care Home.

The arrival of the new mode electrical pedal-assist, so there is is a great example of how working of transport was met with no need to be super-sporty to be together with other agencies, enthusiasm from residents and a volunteer. The initiative aims businesses and volunteers can volunteers who participated to increase physical activity and really make a difference to lives. in a try-out of the trishaw on emotional wellbeing for both the I’d encourage everyone to watch Mother’s Day. passengers and cyclists alike. the film at www.watford.gov.uk/ It has been funded through the cyclingwithage. It makes me smile Local resident Marjorie public health partnership between and I am sure it will have the same commented: “It was like a trip Hertfordshire County Council and effect on you. I hope we can get as down memory lane; seeing the Watford Borough Council. many people as possible to benefit dogs and the children in the park, from using these trishaws both as just like I used to do!” Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter volunteer cyclists and passengers.” Taylor said: “I am committed to The trishaw, a rickshaw-style tackling loneliness, improving This project is an expansion of the device, can comfortably seat physical and mental health and very successful ‘Lets Ride’ free led two people and will be piloted helping our ageing population and guided rides for all, which the by volunteer cyclists through continue to be active and enjoy council currently runs in Watford Cassiobury Park. They have our wonderful town. This scheme through partnerships with British Cycling and Watford Cycle Hub. Its aim is to get people more active, more often, through cycling by encouraging riding groups and offering cycling courses for adults and children.

The rides are free with the trishaws currently based at Watford Cycle Hub. Whether you’d like to book a ride for an elderly friend/relative or fancy becoming a volunteer cyclist, please contact Nick at Watford Cycle Hub via email: nickb@watfordcyclehub. org.uk for more information.

30 About Watford Summer 2019 How your council lines up

In Watford we have an Elected Mayor, Peter Taylor, who was elected for a four-year term on 3 May 2018. You can contact the Mayor if you wish to raise an issue with him directly.

Watford Borough is divided into 12 wards. Each ward has three councillors whom you Peter Taylor elect to represent you for a four-year term. Councillors can be contacted on the phone Liberal Democrats numbers shown or by email and are there for you to discuss any issues or concerns you 01923 278371 have about your neighbourhood or the town. [email protected]

Callowland Central Holywell NEWLY ELECTED NEWLY ELECTED

Sohail Bashir Ian Stotesbury Dawn Allen- Stephen Aga Dychton Rabi Martins Nigel Bell Favour Matt (Lab) (LD) Williamson Bolton (LD) (LD) (LD) (Lab) Ezeifedi Turmaine (Lab) 07769 355750 07999 938202 (LD) 07504 824042 07936 404305 01923 228713 01923 256774 (Lab) 07411 153095 sohail.bashir@ ian. 07891 914319 stephen. aga.dychton@ rabi.martins nigel.bell@ 07879 320189 matt. watford.gov.uk stotesbury@ dawn.allen- bolton@ watford.gov.uk @watford. watford.gov.uk favour. turmaine@ watford.gov.uk williamson@ watford.gov.uk gov.uk ezeifedi@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk Leggatts Meriden Nascot NEWLY ELECTED

Bilqees Richard Smith Asif Khan Amanda Jennifer Kareen Jane Johnson Mark Hofman Mark Watkin Mauthoor (Lab) (Lab) Grimston (LD) Pattinson (LD) Hastrick (LD) (LD) (LD) (LD) (Lab) 07976 350871 07931 529164 07702 815172 07515 468580 07785 528380 07815 419910 01923 239893 01923 255715 07958 566037 richard.smith@ asif.khan@ amanda. jennifer. kareen.hastrick jane.johnson@ mark.hofman@ mark.watkin bilqees. watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk grimston@ pattinson@ @watford. watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk @watford. mauthoor@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk gov.uk gov.uk watford.gov.uk

Oxhey Park Stanborough NEWLY ELECTED

Maggie Parker Iain Sharpe Imran Hamid Peter Kloss Peter Jeffree Jessica Stiff Keith Crout Derek Scudder Tim Williams (LD) (LD) (LD) (LD) 07885 (LD) (LD) (LD) (LD) (LD) 07958 518838 01923 440426 07451 989427 760658 07854 842669 07920 095281 07972 912711 01923 492546 01923 663436 maggie. iain.sharpe@ imran.hamid@ peter.kloss@ peter.jeffree@ jessica.stiff@ keith.crout@ derek.scudder tim.williams parker@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk @watford. @watford. watford.gov.uk gov.uk gov.uk Tudor Vicarage Woodside NEWLY ELECTED

Stephen Joe Fahmy Darren Jagtar Singh Mo Mills Nasreen Shah Richard Glen Saffery Karen Collett Johnson (LD) Walford (LD) Dhindsa (Lab) (Lab) (Lab) Wenham (LD) (LD) (LD) (LD) 01923 882181 01923 336450 07803 610441 07956 212238 01923 253783 07891 138833 07939 218788 01923 661616 07910 391375 joe.fahmy@ darren. jagtar.dhindsa mo.mills@ nasreen.shah@ richard. glen.saffery@ karen.collett stephen.johnson watford.gov.uk walford@ @watford. watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk wenham@ watford.gov.uk @watford. @watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk gov.uk watford.gov.uk gov.uk

(Lab) = Labour (LD) = Liberal Democrats www.watford.gov.uk 31