SEPTEMBER 2018 - ISSUE 166

FHarpendenorum Town Council’s Quarterly Newsletter

IN THIS ISSUE

AUTUMN DIARY page PHOTO COMP page GANG SHOW page OF A BAT 8 WINNERS 10 TURNS 70! 14 SEPTEMBER 2018 - ISSUE 166

FHarpendenorum Town Council’s Quarterly Newsletter FOCUSSING ON

OUR PRIORITIES IN THIS ISSUE I’m writing this at the beginning of August, which is just over 2 years from when I first started HERTS OPEN page GANG SHOW page CHRISTMAS page in my role at the Town Council. Before I started here I had the impression that was a STUDIOS 12 TURNS 70! 14 IS COMING! 18 vibrant place and that the Town Council was committed to making it even better in the future. Front cover image - Tommy Silhouette It was only when I joined that I realised just how much there is going on across the area at Batford Green and just how many dedicated people there are out there that make the place what it is. It really is a pleasure and an honour to be Town Clerk here. The Town Council continues to deliver a huge amount across the Town and credit must go to the officers and volunteers that help us to do so much. I often think that it is not quite understood how much the Town Council does across the Town so maybe we need INFORMATION to shout about that some more. We have a business plan that sets out our priorities up until 2020. This includes six DOCUMENTS key aspirations and many initiatives that sit below them and aim to bring them to life. The Town Council has a requirement to produce The initiatives vary massively in terms of size and complexity which is one of the things certain documents. These documents are approved by I love about working here. Whilst they all vary, what they all have in common is that they Full Council and are available on the Council’s website. will help deliver positive outcomes across the Town. Hard copies are also available at the Town Hall. Details of where to find our business plan and annual report can be found elsewhere on this page. I’ve also set out below some of most recent work: Public and Statutory Documents AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT FORMER WESTFIELD ALLOTMENTS – For some www.harpenden.gov.uk/documents/public-and- time the Town Council has had the aspiration of developing affordable housing at the statutory Former Westfield Allotment site. Our area is in desperate need for affordable housing in particular socially rented dwellings. In July we were successful in securing outline This section also includes details on the General planning permission for the construction of 24 affordable dwellings consisting of 16 Data Protection Regulations and the Council’s Policy houses and eight flats. At least seven of these dwellings will be available for social rent Statements. with the remainder being other forms of affordable housing. Our next step on this is to Business Plan – this document aims to give work with a third party to develop the scheme. a clear picture as to what the Council is trying to HARPENDEN NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN – After 1000’s of residents’ contributions achieve between 2017 and 2020. to its development, we were able to submit a Final Neighbourhood Plan for examination earlier this year. We now have an independent examiner appointed and they will be Financial and Transparency Documents going through their examination process in the next couple of months. I hope to be able www.harpenden.gov.uk/documents/financial to have a community referendum on this in late 2018/early 2019. ‘THERE BUT NOT THERE’ TOMMY SILHOUETTES – A much smaller initiative This section also includes details on Auditors’ Reports, but one that we felt it was important to be involved in. We have installed three Tommy Grants Awarded and Transparency Payments. silhouettes in the High Street, Southdown and Batford as a way of commemorating those Annual Return 2016/17 – which that made the ultimate sacrifice in WW1. The front cover image shows the one at Batford. summarises the Town Council’s transactions for Our work isn’t just about delivering things ourselves as we play an important role in 2016/17 and includes its Annual Governance supporting other organisations to deliver their priorities. A good example of this is the Statement. They are prepared in accordance with the exciting future plans for the Leisure & Cultural centres and the NHC Health & Wellbeing Hub. We also see it as our job to comment on proposals from others that impact on required code of practice and accounting standards for Harpenden in a negative way. There are two current examples of this below. smaller local authorities. INCINERATOR CHILTERN GREEN ENERGY PARK – We are very concerned about Annual Governance and this proposal and have written to those that wish to bring it forward. It will have a Accountability Return 2018/19 – significant impact on Harpenden such as air pollution problems, excessive HGV activity summarises the Town Council’s financial position on roads and a risk to the River Lea and our chalk streams. for 2018/19 and includes its Annual Governance LUTON AIRPORT EXPANSION – The plan is to double passenger numbers from 18 Statement and Accounting Statement. They are million passengers per annum using the existing runway. We already have concerns in prepared in accordance with the required code Harpenden with the current operation but the potential impact that the expansion could of practice and accounting standards for smaller have on noise and other environmental matters is worrying. We have contributed to a recent consultation on the expansion. local authorities. At the time of going to print, this document was an unaudited statement. I hope you enjoy reading Forum and discovering more about the great things that are going on. As ever if you wish to get in contact with me about anything please feel free to Budget 2018/19 – which sets out the budgets do so using my contact below. All the best. Carl for the service areas and the precept for the Town Carl Cheevers, Town Clerk, Harpenden Town Council Council. Further details were produced in the March Email: [email protected] Tel: 01582 768278 edition of Forum.

2 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX Seniors Forum celebrates 10th Anniversary Harpenden Seniors Forum organised a very special afternoon tea back in May to mark its 10th anniversary. The tea was a sell- TOWN MAYOR’S out, and nearly 100 members attended COMMENTS as well as HSF Life Since taking office in May calendar including our President Alan Cox, I have had the privilege of fantastic ‘Wild West’ Summer his wife Rita and the serving as Town Mayor of Carnival, the 25th anniversary Mayor of Harpenden, Harpenden for nearly four Classics on the Common and Councillor David months and it has been a very the Harpenden Lions Highland Heritage. busy time so far! Gathering where I had the A giant cake was privilege of acting as Clan decorated with the In June I was very honoured area. Membership is free, Chief for the day. Harpenden Seniors Forum logo, to welcome Her Majesty’s and members receive a free and it was cut by Alan Cox, Lord-Lieutenant of I also held my first charity newsletter twice a year hand pictured with Cllr David Heritage , Robert Voss event of the year in July, delivered by volunteers. Esq CBE and Mrs Voss to my the ever-popular charity and HSF Chairman Fiona Gaskell. Every year there is a programme Civic Service at St Nicholas quiz. My sincere thanks to Fiona Gaskell said “We are very of free events including the Church. This was an especially everyone who participated pleased with the success of Seniors Fair, which this year is significant occasion as it in and supported this event, this event, which demonstrates on 16 October. Seniors can join coincided with the church especially to our talented how the Forum has grown and Harpenden Seniors Forum free of celebrating its 800th birthday. quizmaster Ginny. I was developed over the past 10 charge by calling 01582 462926 St Nicholas Church is at the able to raise £1600 toward years. Alan Cox deserves all the between 10 a.m. – 12 noon centre of Town life in many my nominated charities, credit for his drive and initiative Mon-Fri or by visiting ways and it was a pleasure Herts Young Homeless and in getting the Forum going and www.harpendenseniorsforum.org to celebrate this anniversary Harpenden Mencap. I am establishing it as a well-known looking forward to hosting Sadly, in June, Alan Cox passed with them; I think everyone local organisation. By happy away following a long battle particularly enjoyed the another event later on in the coincidence the event was held year, details will follow! with illness, which makes his Grove School Samba Band on Alan and his wife’s 54th attendance at the anniversary who added a Latin flavour to Two other landmark events wedding anniversary, so it was a party even more poignant. the proceedings! for the Town that I have very special day for them.” The Forum was Alan’s brainchild The summer is always a busy recently attended are also Harpenden Seniors Forum and its continued success is a time for the Mayoralty and detailed on this page. has nearly 1500 members, true credit to Alan’s drive and I attended a number of key Best wishes. all living in the AL5 postal determination. events in the Harpenden Councillor David Heritage CITIZENS ADVICE IN HARPENDEN The Town Council is delighted to be able to play an integral role in the Citizens Advice service returning to Harpenden. Citizens Advice are running a drop-in service and pre-booked advice sessions on Mondays and Thursdays between 10am and 1pm at the High Street Methodist Church in the town centre. The service was formally relaunched by the Town Mayor Councillor David Heritage in June this year. Having this service back in the town means that local people will no For those that aren’t aware of Citizens Advice, they offer free longer have to travel to St Albans to seek help. This is particularly confidential and impartial advice on a wide range of subjects including important for some older people and those with disabilities who have benefits, debt, housing and consumer matters. They also offer found it tough getting to St Albans. campaigns on issues like scams awareness and lower energy costs. The Town Council will be contributing £5k per year to the Although the service has only been open for three months, there service which is 50% of the annual running costs. The service is are already signs that the demand for their advice will be strong in also receiving generous support from local churches and other Harpenden. If this remains the case, then Citizens Advice will explore organisations. ways to provide more sessions each week. Volunteers remain at the heart of the advice service and without Adviceline – Tel: 03444 111 444 or Tel: 0300 3300650 from a them it would not be able to be delivered. mobile.

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 3 YOUNG MISCELLANY FOLK DANCE GROUP Young Miscellany (YM) is a local Folk YM is a truly family affair, and many of dancing group for ages 5-16 which has the dancers’ parents are also involved been performing English Folk dance in providing music and practical help, since 1992. so the activity is not just restricted to Unlike the majority of adult Morris children. We rehearse two Sunday mornings a month in Dancing sides, who specialise in just We perform at local events and Harpenden at Park Hall, Leyton Road between one or two styles, YM’s aim is to give national festivals throughout the UK, 10.30am-12.30pm, and try to ensure that our children an experience of several including,Folk by the Oak at Hatfield the whole experience is fun for our children. styles, including Cotswold Morris, House. This year we actively took part in Each practice includes a break, drink and a team Border Morris, Clog, and Maypole to the Harpenden Carnival Procession and game. If you would like to find out more about name a few. There are many benefits provided free dance workshops on the YM or try out a free taster session there are to children learning dance with us in Common throughout the day. We were various ways to contact us. terms of fitness, enhanced confidence, also interviewed on CBBC Blue Peter in Tel/Text: 07961 853717, co-ordination and team work as well May, when we were included in a feature email: [email protected], visit our as making new friends outside of their on the Joint Morris Organisations’ day of website: www.youngmiscellany.co.uk, Facebook: normal peer group. dance in Peterborough! Young Miscellany or Twitter: @YMfolkgroup

Maypole Dancing at Harpenden Carnival With Blue Peter presenter Lindsey Russell

DOGS TRUST DOG SCHOOL NOW IN HARPENDEN Last year over 20% of the dogs taken in by This year, Dog School Hertfordshire has set up a class in Harpenden, Dogs Trust rehoming centres (3,000 dogs) were offering fun, informative classes to teach the key skills that prepare handed in for behavioural reasons, 200 of these dogs for the ‘real world’ and encourage good decisions in different simply because their owners couldn’t handle their situations. There are courses specifically designed for three types puppy’s behaviour. The charity is hoping Dog School of dogs, each with unique requirements: puppies, rescue dogs and training classes will help owners live a harmonious adult dogs. life with their pet pooches and avoid more dogs A recent survey by Dogs Trust found that a quarter of dog owners finding themselves homeless in 2018 as a result of a lack of training. wish they could teach their dog to settle when out and about and Maria Wickes, Head of Dog School at Dogs Trust says, “Dogs Trust 18% wish their dog would come back when called. These are just two Dog School classes are an amazing resource and through our team of the components of Dog School training class content delivered of expert behaviourists, we helped over 6,000 dog owners train their in each course. Some other parts of the course include walking on a four-legged friends last year”. loose lead and being more comfortable with veterinary handling. The course costs £50, but for rescue dogs it is only £40. Courses include five weeks of practical training, plus a free induction week at the start to go through some of the basics like canine body language. There is a maximum of 6 dogs per class and at least two professional coaches, so there’s plenty of individual attention for each owner and dog to help them achieve their potential. To enquire further about Dogs Trust Dog School, visit the website: dogstrustdogschool.org.uk, email [email protected] or phone 01582 807524

4 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX The Harpenden Trust turns 70! The Harpenden Trust is 70 in News in brief... October! Who would have • Enabled 32 children in thought in 1948 when George Harpenden schools to go on VI was on the throne and curriculum-related trips Clement Attlee was prime • Delivered 150 Christmas minister – that volunteers parcels to more than 150 from this unique Harpenden residents organisation would, within the last 12 months have: • Provided a befriending service • Enabled 433 families to be for residents who don’t see assisted financially and in many people other ways, and helped 40 • Delivered around 10,000 people with furniture needs Christmas Appeal envelopes • Organised three coach in 260 roads and then outings and a tea party for collected them – involving 133 elderly people 220 organisers and collectors. • Run a trip to Wicksteed Park It was the money generously for 62 children, carers and donated in those envelopes volunteer helpers that allowed us to do all the • Ensured that 80 people things above. But equally received help with their important are the people utility bills who volunteer. Tel: 01582 460457. E-mail: [email protected] think about joining us! Web: www.theharpendentrust.org.uk

HARPENDEN ROVERS FOOTBALL CLUB CELEBRATES ITS 90TH ANNIVERSARY SATURDAY 17 NOVEMBER Music, refreshments and buffet will all be on offer along with the opportunity to renew acquaintances with old friends from Harpenden Rovers Football Club. 7.00pm at Bennets Club/Harpenden British Legion. Tickets and information available from Robert Trevor Mob: 07456 552490 or email: [email protected] or Paul Greene. Mob: 07917 834350. Email: [email protected]. Join a Leisure Course at the Harpenden WEA If you are interested in the world, keen to keep your brain active and want to participate in an activity with like minded people then a WEA leisure course may be just what you HARPENDEN RSPB GROUP are looking for. The Harpenden branch of the WEA (Workers’ Education Association) The group was formed in 1973 with the aim of organising runs courses on a wide range of topics. Each course comprises 8-11 weekly daytime events for people living in Harpenden who are interested sessions, each session lasting 1 ½ or 2 hours. No qualifications are required to attend; in birds and birdwatching. Every year around 30 walks and there is no homework and no exams. Fees are payable, but those on means tested birdwatching trips are organised and a series of illustrated benefits or a low income have their fees waived. Our participants find their WEA talks held at All Saints Church, Station Road. The group also courses an affordable, friendly, informal and enjoyable experience, with many returning manages to raise funds for the conservation work that the year after year. The courses meet at the Harpenden Trust Centre, 90 Southdown Road RSPB undertakes throughout the UK and overseas. (although one course meets at the Plough and Harrow pub opposite). Ample parking is The group is friendly and sociable and is open to everyone, available at the Co-op car park nearby. There is a break for the schools’ half term. whether RSPB members or not. We welcome those with Courses run in the Autumn and Spring terms. The courses for the Autumn term starting all levels of experience, from beginners to experts. Once a week commencing 17th September are as follows: month, on the first Sunday, an early morning walk along the River Lea from Batford, takes place. Other walks and Mondays 10am – 12noon The British Raj in India (Part 1) 11 weeks trips are on Wednesdays. A new season of illustrated talks Mondays 2pm-4pm Art History: The Tudor Spin Machine 8 weeks starts on the 20th September, when Emily Woodfield from and The High Renaissance w/c 1/10 the RSPB will talk about their work with Tropical Rainforest Tuesdays 11am – 1pm The English Musical Renaissance 1899-1934 11 weeks Conservation. Every year a printed programme is hand Tuesdays 2pm – 3.30pm Current Affairs / Talking Politics (Part 1). 10 weeks delivered to the homes of more than 800 RSPB members in A lively discussion. w/c 24/9 Harpenden, Wheathampstead and Redbourn. Full details of Wednesdays 2pm - 4pm The English Parish Church from 11 weeks all events are available on the RSPB website: Reformation to the 20th Century www.rspb.org.uk/groups/harpenden.or contact group leader, Thursdays 2pm – 4pm Contemporary Literature (Part 1) covering a 11 weeks Geoff Horn on Tel: 01582 765443 for more information. diverse range of novels, poetry and non fiction This Autumn there will also be two one day courses: Saturday 20th October Russia from the Cherry Orchard to Putin. HARPENDEN AND DISTRICT LOCAL An exploration of leadership in Russian politics and culture. HISTORY SOCIETY Saturday 17th November A Historical Guide to the Reading of Music - Tracing the development Mounts quarterly exhibitions in Park Hall, Leyton Road of the ‘language’ of music with some ‘audience participation’ from 2.30pm – 4.30pm on the first Saturday of March, If you would like to find out more about any of these courses please visit our website: June, September and December. For further information www.weaharpenden.org.uk or contact Bob Spence: - by phone on Tel: 01442 254375, or membership enquiries contact Alan Bunting Tel: 01582 by email: [email protected]. 760564. Web: www.harpenden-history.org.uk

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 5 HARPENDEN RFC WHO BOASTS FOUR CURRENT SENIOR INTERNATIONALS ON ITS CV Tucked away on the fringes of Last season the club just missed out on ; and Jack Singleton – all England the town on Redbourn Lane lies promotion to a higher league by a single point Internationals. Each played here as teenagers Harpenden Club, but it is confident that the future is bright. and has left his mark. now one of the most successful The main story of the year is the decision The club now caters for women’s and girls’ junior clubs in Hertfordshire to accept the Rugby Union’s proposal of rugby and has impressed in the short time that over the past two decades the provision of an all-weather pitch, with it has been in operation (Harpenden Ladies has been going from strength to floodlights, in exchange for a specified use of RFC is now in its fifth year). The club’s policy strength. Formed just under a hundred years the facilities when not being required by the is to extend membership to all persons from ago and following a couple of homes in the club. One of the consequences of this decision the age of 5 years and upwards, but for those town over the years, has firmly established is that the HRFC will be able to guarantee who want to play Womans’/Girls’ Rugby itself at its permanent location comprising a all-year rugby the club also has sides clubhouse and five pitches, together with the to a variety starting at Under 13 level provision of three squash courts. From the of personnel. going up to an Under 18 outset the aim was to create a family This includes XV’s. atmosphere so that when one had finished local schools; Participation in women’s with rugby, squash could be played in the Disability Rugby; rugby has doubled in club’s facility adjoining the main clubhouse Girls’/Women’s the past 10 years, the and/or golf next door (at ‘Hammonds End’). Rugby; HRFC England women’s team Nowadays, there is still a strong link between league matches won the World Cup last the golf and rugby clubs, with squash having a etc. Its main summer and, with the quieter time than it used to have. aim is to spread enthusiasm generated by The past 50 or so years have seen a revolution the popularity Team GB at the rugby 7s in the way the club operates. Following the of the sport in Rio, there’s never been move of almost half of the 1st XV to paying and to provide a useable facility in all a better time for women and girls to give the clubs in the area, a decision was taken that weather conditions. Both internal and sport a try. changed the mould at the club. Junior and external improvements have been planned to accommodate this change in use. In the Under 13 to Under 18 levels, HRFC Mini rugby was adopted and one of the very currently offers rugby for girls aged 12 first displays in the country was conducted The ethos of the club is enjoyment and fun, upwards and we are keen to establish a senior at Redbourn Lane. The current strength of together with great participation in the local ladies team to provide continuity. Specifically, the Junior and Mini sections bears testament community as can be witnessed especially we have squads at Under 13 (school years to the wisdom of that decision. HRFC boast most weeks by the attendance on Sunday 6-8), Under 15 (school years 9-10) and Under one of the biggest junior memberships in mornings. Support for the club is fantastic 18 (school years 11-13). Beyond 18 the girls the South of England and has distinguished at all levels and this translates into the can play senior rugby for the newly formed itself with many honours including winning number of successes the club membership senior team. The camaraderie that the girls the National Under 17s Cup when England achieves in a variety of competitions. It also develop means that some of these girls will be International, Owen Farrell, ran the line as he led to the club being seen as the type of friends for life: players who put their bodies on was unable to turn out for Harpenden due to place that attracted members who were to the line for their team often create a special a rule that prevented top quality players from become ‘stars’ in their later careers. The most unbreakable bond of friendship. The section participating in the final! recent have been Owen Farrell; George Ford; finished on a high note last season with the Under 15s reaching the National finals after an exciting match against Ellingham & Ringwood, only one match away from being National Winners – not bad for a club that was started a mere five years before. If you would like to be a part of HRFC’s journey, take a look at the club’s website on: hrfc.com where details of the various activities can be found. Or follow us on Twitter @HarpendenRUFC or HRFC on Instagram.

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133 Southdown Rd, AL5 1PU

6 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX HARPENDEN LIONS CLUB LIFE SKILLS PROGRAMME BENEFITS 27 LOCAL SCHOOLS Earlier this year, Harpenden Lions Club support for families with pre-school age with workshops around marked the 25th Anniversary of its Life children. The programme currently supports the theme of drug abuse Skills Programme and the important 27 schools with a reach of approximately and resisting peer pressure. Sir John Lawes milestone of having raised and donated 10,000 children. School bought in the services of a theatre £250,000 to local schools to support Life Harpenden Lions work closely with company to deliver a presentation with Skills Education. Hertfordshire County (Herts for Learning) workshops themed around relationships. The Lions Life Skills programme was set up Wellbeing Team to help fund staff training St Dominic RC Primary school used the in 1984 by Lions Clubs of Great Britain and and consultancy services for local schools funding to deliver a multicultural event Ireland to support schools across the U.K. in Funding for the Programme comes aimed at increasing children’s awareness addressing issues of drug and alcohol abuse partly from Harpenden Lions Club direct and understanding of, and respect for, other amongst school age children. Harpenden fundraising activities such as the Highland cultures, Flamstead Village School used Lions Club joined the programme in 1992 Gathering and partly from grants by local the funding towards the cost of joining and quickly extended their remit after and national charitable trusts and local the Herts for Learning Healthy Schools consultation with local schools to identify businesses that recognise the importance of programme. Watling View School used the local needs and issues. Life Skills education. donation to purchase a range of resources The aim of the programme is to equip Each year, depending on funding designed to develop emotional resilience young people with the skills they need projections, schools are approached and in children with profound and multiple to lead fulfilling adult lives and take their asked to submit plans on their Life Skills learning difficulties. place as responsible members of society. priorities for the coming year. Provided Life Skills Education has been recognised by these meet the agreed criteria funding Funding was provided for Herts for Learning the World Health Organisation and UNICEF is released and the progress of the plans to set up and run three sessions of training as being of crucial importance and in U.K. monitored. Some schools have chosen to for school staff on managing mental health schools is delivered through the Personal update their existing teaching and learning issues in children. The training sessions Social Health and Citizenship curriculum resources, others have invested in teacher were attended by 38 representatives from (PSHCE). training whilst others have developed 21 of our local schools. Harpenden Lions Programme supports their curriculum to deepen awareness of In the coming academic year Harpenden contemporary issues such as e-safety, cyber all mainstream nursery, primary and Lions plan to work to a budget of £10,000 secondary schools in Harpenden and the bullying or relationship and sex education. Life Skills funding has also helped eight to support 13 primary, secondary, nursery surrounding villages of Redbourn, Markyate, and special needs schools and to work Flamstead, Wheathampstead and Kimpton. local schools to achieve Healthy Schools with Herts for Learning Wellbeing Team in The programme also includes the three status under the Hertfordshire Healthy special needs schools serving Harpenden, Schools Programme. setting up a school training programme. St. Luke’s, Watling View and Heathlands. Last academic year Roundwood Park School For further information visit the dedicated Additionally, local Children’s Centres are bought in the services of an educational webpage www.harpenden-lions.co.uk/ included in the programme to provide theatre company to deliver a production services/schools/ HECTOR THE HARPENDEN

HOPPER BUS IS RETIRINGwaiting passengers rather than The Harpenden Hopper is a community bus service that has been let them down. That is the level successfully run by local volunteers for local people of all ages for of service we aim to provide for the past two years. Set up by the charity Harpenden Connect, with our passengers but Hector is letting the side down. the support of the county council, this popular service has been running three days a week from 9.30am till 4.30pm on a route Each time Hector goes for a check-up, the around Roundwood, which is the least served area by existing long-term prognosis is not encouraging. Rather than offer passengers public transport. an unreliable service, a decision has been made to put Hector out to Passengers who have been using their regular bus passes or paying grass, and to suspend the current Hopper service for the remainder £2 for the trip have expressed their satisfaction of this service, of the year. adding that they like the community feel of the bus – it’s an This will give Harpenden Connect the time to: opportunity to get out into town, meet fellow passengers, go to Source a shiny new bus (and ideally a backup vehicle) the shops, have a coffee and avoid the cost and hassle of parking • in town. • To amend the current route to town from Kinsbourne Green The positive feedback from the initial pilot scheme has been through Roundwood overwhelming and Harpenden Connect is proud of its fleet of • To perfect plans to extend the route to include Eastmoor Park and trained volunteer bus drivers, the efficient team of operators, a Southdown well-organised rota system, an enthusiastic team of supporters and a • To factor passengers’ suggestions into a new and improved regular group of Hopper passengers. However, although the Hopper scheme team and the bus system are firing on all cylinders, Hector the Passengers can look forward to the return of the Harpenden Hopper Hopper Bus isn’t! in the Spring of 2019! Keep an eye on the news on our website If you are a regular passenger you will know that Hector has been www.harpendenhopper.co.uk misbehaving several times over the past couple of years and he gives no notice when he is going on strike. On one such occasion an Or contact Tel: 01582 638007 or [email protected] inspired volunteer driver drove the route in his own car to collect

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 7 Wildlife WATCH Common Pipistelle Credit Harry Hogg Towards the end of the autumn, the search for a hibernation place begins. Bats need somewhere that is cool but will remain at a constant temperature THE AUTUMN DIARY throughout the winter months. Historically bats used caves, rock fissures and trees for roosting. More recently, OF A BAT bats hibernate in a wide range of human built structures such as in our roofs, cellars, railway tunnels and bridges. Bats are fascinating animals that account for nearly a quarter Bats may roost on their own or in small groups, but it is of all mammal species in the world; over 1300 species have thought that bats return to the same site year after year. been discovered. This article will give you an autumnal insight It is amazing how little we actually know about the into ‘A Year in the Life of’… our British bats. hibernating habits of our British bats. Take the common There is an awful lot going on right now…. pipistrelle as an example - one of the most commonly Autumn sees the start of the mating season. The males seen species in the UK. It is recorded in large numbers are ‘clicking’, ‘buzzing’ and even ‘purring’ to attract a mate. over the summer, but the small number of hibernation Even though mating is taking place now, remarkably, the roosts found by ecologists simply does not reflect their eggs will not actually be fertilised until May next year. population. Where do they all go? Female bats store live sperm in their bodies throughout the Sadly, bats have declined by as much as 70% since the entire winter season and it is not until they produce an egg 1970s. Urban expansion has destroyed feeding areas; in the spring that it is fertilised. This process is known as increased use of insecticides in farming may have delayed fertilisation. Why do they do this? Well, the late reduced bats’ prey and roosts in buildings are lost during spring and summer months alone do not give enough time redevelopment and modernisation. As a result, all bats for mating, gestation, lactation, weaning and fattening up all and their roost sites are now protected by both British before hibernation. The bats overcome this by mating now and European law. and storing all the necessary ingredients to continue the Over the past few years, Herts and Middlesex reproductive process, as soon as enough food is available for Wildlife Trust has been working closely with the gestating females. This fascinating reproductive strategy only Herts and Middlesex Bat Group to protect habitat, occurs in a small number of other mammals. roosting, and foraging opportunities for bat species. Bats are also busy building up fat reserves. In the autumn The Trust is working with partners to create a and winter the number of insect prey dwindles. To increase ‘Living Landscape’ where wildlife habitats are bats’ chances of survival over the winter, they eat as much as linked thought the landscape – really important for possible now, building up a reserve of fat that can carry them animals like bats which forage over great areas. through the winter while hibernating. Hibernation, or torpor, are long periods of deep sleep. A bat will actually lower its body temperature and basic metabolic rate during torpor, so they use less energy and can survive on reserve fat alone. Interestingly, a bat may not take a breath for a few minutes and its heartbeat can drop to 10 beats per minute. Eating as HOW YOU CAN HELP BATS much as possible now is critical. There are several ways that you too can help bats in Harpenden. Never knowingly disturb any hibernating bats. If they wake, it can take them up to 30 minutes to rouse properly and be ready for flight. This uses up vital energy reserves, that if they don’t replenish immediately, they will not survive. If you are planning any building works that may impact on bats, then you should always check for bats first, with the help of a suitably qualified ecologist. Wildlife friendly gardening is something we can all do! Designing your own garden with a wide range of flowering plants that flower throughout the seasons will attract night-time flying insects and in turn attract and support our bats. Adding a pond is also one of the single most important habitats for insects that will in turn provide food for bats. Finally, one of the most exciting things you can do now is to get out there and enjoy a night-time safari. Bats are in their largest numbers at this time of year and busy building up those fat reserves! Harpenden Common and Batford Springs Nature Reserve are good places to start. Why not have a night-time exploration with friends, beginning at sunset checking your garden or local area first. If you do spot or hear a bat, please remember to report it to the Herts Natural History Society who are collecting records Long-Eared Brown for a new book on bat distribution. Credit Tom Marshall www.hnhs.org/submit/mammals-amphibians-and-reptiles

8 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX HARPENDEN COMMON PROJECT DAYS Would you like to become a conservation volunteer and help manage Harpenden Common? Volunteering is a great way to experience wildlife, keep fit, Common Pipistelle learn new skills and meet new friends. We carry Credit Harry Hogg out practical management tasks and ecological surveys all year round. Everyone is welcome and no experience is necessary. UPCOMING PROJECT DAYS: Monday 24th September Tuesday 25th September Monday 19th November Monday 22nd October Tuesday 20th November Tuesday 23rd October Monday 17th December All project days run from 10am Tuesdayto 3pm. You18th can December come along for an hour or stay the whole day. Refreshments and lunch are provided. For more information contact the Commons and Greens Officer on Tel: 01582 463667 or NATIONAL BAT email [email protected] MONITORING PROGRAMME With the support of volunteers, Harpenden Town Council helps to monitor the UK’s bats by carrying out surveys every July at Batford Springs Nature Reserve and on Harpenden Common using bat detectors pictured above. These field surveys particularly look at how 4 species are faring across the UK: noctule, serotine, common and soprano pipistrelle. To conserve bats we need to establish the size of current bat populations, working out which bats are where and how they are responding to the threats and pressures they face. This year we recorded all 4 species at Batford Springs Nature Reserve and both species of pipistrelle on Harpenden Common. If you would like to join in the surveys for next year then please contact the Commons and Greens Officer on 01582 463667 or email [email protected] No previous experience is necessary!

Wildlife Friendly Garden at Grebe House, Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. Photo by Josh Kubale

Noctule Credit Tom Marshall

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 9 Best Independent Business and Best Overall – David Whitbread

PHOTO COMPETITION WINNERS Harpenden Town Council this year launched Best its first photo competition inviting the Wildlife Town’s budding photographers to enter their – Gill photographs into one of the competitions Gwatkin six categories. The Judging Panel made up of Town Mayor Councillor David Heritage, Town Clerk Carl Cheevers, Harpenden Photographic Society Chairman Peter Stevens, Sophia Barrett and Heather Scott, officers of the Town Council, had lots of photos to deliberate on. The winning photographs are featured here.

Best Young Person’s – James Austin Best Seasonal – Steve Collins

Best Highlighting Harpenden – Steve Collins Best Social Media – Chrissie Adam

10 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX MEET BIM AFOLAMI MP FOR HITCHIN AND HARPENDEN

Parliament, holding the my children to work with me real impact on peoples’ lives. government to account on (although it is far too much Weekends don’t really exist spending taxpayer’s money. fun to be considered work!). for MPs, but I always find The circus-like atmosphere of The royal wedding party at time to spend with my wife, Prime Minister’s Questions Offley Place Hotel was a two children, and the rest isn’t representative of the real brilliant event, with special of my family. Westminster work that goes on behind the guest Princess Elsa from is described as a bubble, When I was elected as your scenes, and it gives people the Frozen, and I recently attended and that can be so true, so MP just over a year ago, I wrong impression of what the Harpenden Carnival, which I cherish going back to my could never have imagined world of politics is like. was so well organised and normal life, even if it’s only for how much my life would enjoyable. a small amount of time! change in such a short space I recently led a debate in of time. Being a Member the House of Commons I also hold regular surgeries It can be tiring and hectic of Parliament is like no on Thameslink’s timetable in the constituency, normally sometimes, and I know other job in the world, but changes that are affecting on Friday afternoons, which every MP says representing its uniqueness makes it so Harpenden, as part of my give constituents time to meet their constituency is the incredible. And I am extremely ongoing campaign to get with me personally to discuss best job in the world, but I fortunate to represent the this problem fixed. During their concerns. I receive a huge think representing Hitchin wonderful seat of Hitchin this debate I asked the number of emails and letters and Harpenden is a hard job and Harpenden, including Rail Minister several direct from constituents, but meeting to beat. some of Hertfordshire’s most questions about the details people face to face gives us a You can contact me on: lovely villages. of these changes, and raise chance to really get to the root Tel: 01582 761796, Email: personal concerns of my A lot of people ask me what of the issue. These surgeries [email protected] constituents in the House. it is like to be an MP, and are a key part of my week, and or visit my website: In my opinion, this is the core what I get up to everyday, I think allow politics to make a bimafolami.co.uk purpose of Parliament – we so I thought I would take are your representatives in this opportunity to give my constituents a taste of what Parliament, and we must I do in an average week work for our constituents’ (although each day is different interests. Also in Parliament, to the next!). there are typically several votes each week on proposed I generally spend Monday laws. Before the summer to Thursday working in recess we voted on numerous Parliament, and the rest of pieces of legalisation getting my week in the constituency the country ready for Brexit, or with my family. Balancing legislation on cutting down family life can be tricky when energy bills, and complicated you’re away from home so legislation getting extra much, but I am very fortunate money for Hertfordshire that my constituency is close County Council. to London, so I can go home most nights. I don’t have a After a busy few days flat in London, so I get the of meeting, media and train from Harpenden into debate, I head back to the Parliament, or if votes run constituency. There are a very late (sometimes into the number of serious issues early hours of the morning), affecting Hitchin and I drive back. Harpenden at the moment, A huge part of my role as an including concerns about MP in Westminster is being train services, Luton airport part of the Public Accounts expansion, the proposed Committee, which I am very incinerator at East Hyde, and privileged to be a member of. worries about the Green Belt, The role of the committee is but I also find time to do to scrutinise public spending, some slightly more relaxing and make sure the taxpayer activities! is getting value for money. The summer events around The committee is the oldest Hitchin and Harpenden have committee, set up in 1861, been fantastic, and given and really gets to heart of me an opportunity to take

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 11 FRIENDS OF COSNE One of the fortunate aspects of visiting our French Twin Town of over 30 years is the town’s proximity to the famous wine areas of Sancerre and Poilly Fume, both long standing Appellation Controlee wine areas. Achieving this accolade in recent years is a third wine type, Coteaux de Castle at historic town of Moulins Gennois. The Friends of Cosne recently visited Cosne and were HERTS OPEN able to bring back some wine from all three areas as we travelled by coach! When we arrived in Cosne we were greeted by our smiling faced hosts. As usual we STUDIOS 2018 were beautifully looked after, some of us with friends of long standing and others with new, but equally Discover more this September hospitable friends. On our first day we were taken to Herts Open Studios 2018 will run for 3 a historical town of Moulins where we were guided weeks from Saturday 8th to Sunday 30th round the interesting features of the town. Lunch was September 2018 inclusive. This popular taken at the National Costume Museum followed by annual event connects art-lovers and an opportunity to see the fabulous theatrical costumes artists and is even bigger this year, with including some of those worn by Rudolf Nureyev. 150 artists taking part at almost 70 solo On Sunday our hosts entertained us and we attended and group venues across the County. As a soiree in the evening which was preceded by a always, visitors will be able to enjoy a rich civic reception given by the Municipality of Cosne mix of free-to-enter experiences including and its Mayor. He wanted to meet anyone on the personal studios, live demonstrations, visit involved with British local government. We had exhibitions and more. Hosted by Herts Visual Arts and established almost 30 years ago, it’s a unique opportunity for inspiration and Honorary Alderman Alison Steer with us, who is a discovery - a popular fixture of Hertfordshire’s annual art calendar. former Mayor of St. Albans and Cllr. Gill Clark, our Chairman. With help from our visit organiser whose French is excellent we were able to discuss local What can Open Studios democracy matters. Monday morning saw some sad faces as we met at the Mairie ready for the visitors expect? journey home. Our artists, artisans and designer- If you are interested in experiencing French life and the makers across Hertfordshire offer privilege of staying with French families or hosting on enormous choice and opportunities. their return visit, please get in touch – details are on With painting, drawing, sculpture, our website www.friendsofcosne.com/ or contact the printmaking, glass, photography, Town Council to give you a contact number. ceramics, textiles, jewellery, a blacksmith and more in the 2018 The Friends of Cosne-Cours sur Loire is planning to #HertsOpenStudios mix, visitors will host a Wine Tasting evening on Saturday 20 October be able to plan amazing personal art in Park Hall, Leyton Road. Details of this and other trails. Our artists are ready to show, events on our calendar can be found on our website. demonstrate or talk about their work, or just allow quiet browsing if preferred. Regardless, a warm welcome Councillor Gill Clark, Monsieur Michel Veneau, Mayor is assured at every venue. of Cosne, Honorary Alderman Alison Steer and Christian This year’s sought-after Open Studios brochure is again in the new A5 Vennink, Chairman of the Cosne Town Twinning Group format that proved so popular last year. An amazing mine of reference information about individual artists, venues and opening hours, including demonstrations, refreshments and accessibility information. Widely available at public locations across the county as well as from participating Open Studios Artists, the brochure is also available on-line via the Herts Visual Arts web site. To help plan visits and personal trails, there’s also a central at-a-glance mini-guide listing all venues, dates and art forms. Whatever your interests, there’s bound to be somewhere local to visit, from individual studios to larger mixed groups. Welcome to Open Studios 2018 - what’s not to like?” Web: www.hvaf.org.uk Twitter: @HVAF #HertsOpenStudios Facebook: @HertsVisualArts

12 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX WORLD WAR I COMMEMORATION To commemorate the Centenary of the St Nicholas Church are taking part in end of WWI and to remember the sacrifice Battle’s Over – Ringing out for peace! and of millions of men and women, Harpenden will ring their bells at 7.05pm along with is participating in the national ‘Battles over 1,000 other churches and Cathedrals Over, A Nation’s Tribute’ Beacons of nationally. Light event. Harpenden Town Council has installed A WWI Beacon of Light will be lit on three “There But Not There”, six foot Methodist Church. They will be removed Harpenden Common, (on the area tall silhouettes of WWI ‘Tommies’ in after Remembrance Day. between the Harpenden Arms PH and Bull remembrance of the sacrifices made. A further event to commemorate this Road), at 7.00pm on Sunday 11 November These are a temporary addition to the land mark is an exhibition on the two 2018. Five minutes before this, a bugler town and can be seen by the Concourse World Wars by the Harpenden and will sound the last post. More than 1,000 in the High Street, by the Station Road District Local History Society on Saturday Beacons of Light will be lit throughout the junction in Batford, as featured on the December 1 in Park Hall, Leyton Road . front page, and in Southdown near the from 2.30 – 4.30pm.

Volunteers Wanted THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION The Royal British Legion is currently recruiting for volunteer caseworkers across Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire. Case workers HARPENDEN BRANCH play a vital role in enabling the Legion to deliver our Welfare services and are often the only person who will meet with our REMEMBRANCE 2018 beneficiaries face to face. The role involves visiting Service On Saturday 27 October at 11.00am we will be opening the personnel, reservists, veterans and their families in their home, Field of Remembrance at the Garden of Remembrance, next and completing our application for assistance. Case workers also to the War Memorial, High Street; saying “Thank You” to all write a narrative report and complete an outcome star covering those who served in the First World War in this Centenary six areas of need; Finances, Well-being, Health, Housing, Activities Year and launching the 2018 Harpenden Poppy Appeal. All are and Social Life. After completing their report, case workers make welcome to join us for this small ceremony. recommendations to a paid member of staff, a Case Officer, This is then followed on Remembrance Sunday 11 November as to what kind of assistance may be required. This can include with a Service of Remembrance at the Town War Memorial, financial grants, referrals to internal specialists (debts, benefits, High Street commencing at 10.50am. War Pension/Armed Forced Compensation Scheme, mental health, If you would like to join the parade you are more than independent living, criminal justice etc.), referral to external and welcome, the parade will form up in Rothamsted Park at statutory services and referrals to internal services (break centres, 10.20am. care homes, adventure breaks etc.). After a volunteer is finished with a case, they are able see all the actions taken with a case Fantastic news for the Harpenden Poppy Appeal 2017. A new through our online Case Management System (CMS). record has been set in Harpenden; to date we have raised £31,020.89 and still have until the end of September to Full training is provided, and expenses are covered, including increase this. travel up to 45p per mile. All of our volunteer caseworkers are DBS checked. Looking forward to our 2018 Poppy Appeal. If you are able to spare an hour or two to help with collections at local We are looking to recruit people with good social skills, who are supermarkets, railway station etc during this year’s appeal able to drive to visit the clients’ homes, and who are comfortable from Saturday 27 October to Saturday 10 November, using a computer. If you are interested in the role, or would like PLEASE give our Poppy Appeal Organiser Rosemary a ring on some more information, please contact us on Tel: 0333 011 4480 Tel: 07983Harpenden 429771. House small 90mm x 70mm advert.pdf 1 18/03/2017 13:08 TP-Ador [email protected] 90x70.qxp_Ad 90 x 70 25/01/2016 11:08 Page 1

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Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 13 Celebrating 70 years of the

HARPENDEN GANGAnd every SHOW show has been performed in since 1949 - some for just one show, the Harpenden Public Halls. The first In January 2019 the Harpenden Gang one for 17! These days the maximum was in October 1949, the second Show will be celebrating a momentous age of anyone on stage being 18, the in January 1951 and every January 70 years! It’s the longest running most shows anyone can be in is nine since then. The 70th show runs from recognised Gang Show in the world - – still quite an amazing achievement. Tuesday 8th – Saturday 12th January 70 years without a break. And none of these youngsters have ever 2019. The box office opens to the During these years there have been just had to audition – it’s an all-inclusive public at the beginning of November. four producers, each with their own show. And we’ve calculated that about Tickets can be purchased via incredible commitment and enthusiasm 129,400 proud parents, friends and the - Eric Thair 1949 - 1968, Jack Skinner general public have been lucky enough www.hwgangshow.org.uk at this time. 1969, Marilyn Hudson 1970 - 1993, to see a Gang Show! Producer Ewan Murray has been Ewan Murray 1994 to present. Each and Girls first joined the Gang in the 20th involved with the Gang Show for every one of the Gang is so thankful to show in 1969, when 16 Ranger Guides 46 years having first been on stage these four for the amazing experiences were invited to take part. In 1979 the as part of the Gang in 1972. He has and opportunities that they have been Ranger Unit become Venture Scouts, been Musical Director since 1989 and given. and so the show reverted to being an producer since 1994. Speaking of a A staggering 3,596 young people have all Scout show. lifetime of Gang Show experiences performed on the Gang Show stage Ewan commented: “I am so proud and privileged to have been part of the Gang, in one form or another, for so long. There’s no buzz quite like the Gang Show buzz – whether back stage, on stage or watching. The sheer joy on the faces of the young performers is a sight to behold, and the audiences come back from far and wide every year. That’s why we are still here after an incredible 70 years.” For more information please contact Colette Eagles – Colette.eagles@ virginmedia.com – 07533 209208

14 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX HARPENDEN EVENTS STATTY FUNFAIR Tuesday 11th to Saturday 15th September HERTS 10K Invitation to attend our Sunday 14th October

Seniors Fair CIRCUS Monday 29th October – Tuesday 16th October 2018 Sunday 4th November Harpenden Public Halls REMEMBRANCE SERVICE 10.30am – 1.30pm Sunday 11th November Free Entry CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL Over 30 local organisations have taken stands to promote & LIGHTS SWITCH ON their work at this popular event. Sunday 25th November Visitors will find a mix of charities, voluntary & commercial organisations. SOUTHDOWN LIGHTS Come along and find out what’s available locally, & LANTERNS EXTRAVAGANZA either for yourself, a family member, friend or neighbour. Friday 30th November Refreshments by Harpenden Village W.I. in aid of a local charity. BATFORD LIGHTS SWITCH ON Join HSF for FREE Sunday 2nd December Your source of information about local amenities, groups, services, organisations and tradespeople. Contact us on: 01582 462926 (10-12 noon Mon-Fri) Email: [email protected] www.harpendenseniorsforum.org LET'S or visit our website: S.C.R.A.P. FLY TIPPING!

We ALL have a DUTY OF CARE, to ensure our household or business waste is disposed of legally and not fly tipped. Avoid an UNLIMITED FINE by following the

FARMERS MARKET S uspect ALL waste carriers S.C.R.A.P. code: DATES C heck with the Environment Agency on 03708 506 506 10.00am to 2.00pm that the provider taking your waste away is licensed R efuse unexpected offers to have waste taken away SUNDAY 23rd SEPTEMBER A sk what will happen to your waste SUNDAY 28th OCTOBER P aperwork should be obtained – get a full receipt SUNDAY 25th NOVEMBER (12-6PM) SUNDAY 23rd DECEMBER

Around two thirds of fly tips are household waste. These are all examples of fly tipping which YOU could be fined or prosecuted for.

For more information on preventing fly tipping or to report fly tipping hertfordshire.gov.uk/flytipping For information about the Household Waste Recycling Centres

wasteaware.org.uk

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 15 SUPPORTING INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES HARPENDEN BEAUTY HUB

Harpenden Beauty Hub came along. I wanted to create a place where people could have quality beauty treatments with someone reliable and who they could trust, also somewhere that they would feel comfortable enough to totally relax and switch off from the daily grind. My clients have been so loyal to me when I started this journey, with regards to the search for finding premises to work In the heart of Harpenden on the High Street tucked away in a from, they are so delighted that I joined forces with Body secluded spot nestles a brand new beauty business, Harpenden Mechanix at 69b High Street. We now have our own health Beauty Hub. and wellbeing clinic in centre of Harpenden. With it being Carley Whawell has 17 years of practical knowledge and such a great location (behind THC) on the High Street it gives experience in the beauty industry. She has worked as a off a sense of exclusivity, secrecy and privacy to our clients. therapist and spa trainer in prestigious spas such as the famous The clinic also offers Osteopathy, Sports Massage and Pilates.” Sanctuary Spa in Covent Garden and managed the iconic The Beauty Hub provides treatments such as Waxing, SiennaX Breathing Space Spa in Harpenden. She has trained with seven Spray Tanning, Bio Sculpture Gels, OPI Manicures/Pedicures, different skincare companies, four self tanning houses and three LVL Lash Lifting and Facials. “My clients have described nail companies. Harpenden Beauty Hub as an ambience of calming tranquillity “After the closure of Breathing Space I knew I didn’t want to and elegance.” work for someone else, I was ready to be independent and It is open Monday-Saturday with late night Wednesdays. wanted to carry on performing quality treatments for my You can follow the Hub on facebook and Instagram. clients so I decided to set up my own business, That’s how Website www.harpendenbeautyhub.com

HCPC Registered Skye Optometrists CLINIC - 6 DAYS A WEEK Independent Optometrists and Contact Lens Practitioners HOME VISITS AVAILABLE Corns & Diabetic Assessments Designer frames & sunglasses Full contact lens service Glaucoma screening Retinal photography Custom Made Orthotics / Insoles Vision related dyslexia assessments Fungal Nail Treatment • Nail Surgery Routine Nail Care • Verrucas tel: 01582 712845 6 Piggottshill Lane, Harpenden AL5 1LH www.skyes.co.uk Tel: 01582 766614 1 Bowers Parade, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 2SH www.harpendenpodiatry.co.uk

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16 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX SUPPORTING INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES OUI OF HARPENDEN

Oui opened in 1995 on Bowers Parade in the town centre, behind Please pop in and take a look in a relaxed environment with no the sensory gardens. Oui offers ladies contemporary clothing and pressure to buy, the main goal of Oui is that you are happy with accessories in sizes 8 to 18. It’s the largest independent stockist your purchases every time! If you don’t see anything to suit one of Oui and Set in the UK. time then have a cuppa with the team and visit us again. The shop was set up by a mother and daughter team, a family For the month of September 2018, Oui is offering a 15% discount run business. Fiona graduated from London College of Fashion off purchases in the shop. To claim this discount just take along a in Fashion Product Development, and always wanted to run her copy of this page and one of the team will be more than willing own retail business and invited her mum Pam to join and leave to help. her civil service job, they’ve never had any regrets. They ran it Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5.00pm together successfully till Pam’s passing of Parkinson’s disease last Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm year. Fiona continues to work full time in the business and enjoys Instagram: @ouiofharpenden the variety of running her own business. She loves customer contact, styling, buying, visual merchandising and giving optimum Email: [email protected] customer service. The shop is renowned for being child friendly Telephone: 01582 766142 The shop on Bowers Parade and their toy box keeps any little one happy, the only problem is getting them to leave them! Fiona is excited about working in the community and often hosts fashion shows and colour events for various charitable and social events for groups or charities within Harpenden. Please don’t hesitate to give Fiona a call if you would like her to host an event for your charity or social group. We stock fashion from Oui and Set, footwear from Ilse Jacobsen a Danish brand and Lisa Kay Shoes a local footwear designer. Fiona is always on the look out for jewellery designers and changes her stock regularly so you can always update an outfit quickly from as little as £20. Fiona believes in a capsule wardrobe for optimum wear and a low cost per wear ratio. Clothing deliveries are every 2 weeks, so there is always something new to look at. Oui also offers an alteration service for that made to measure service.

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Ken Hodson Local Computer Hardwar e and Software Repairs, Riverbanks_Harpenden Forum.indd 1 04/03/2015 13:22 Upgrades and Advice for Home and Business Te l. 07974 156743 / 01582 794723 Email [email protected] www. kenhodsoncomputerservices.co.uk •No fix, no fee for all repairs – you have nothing to lose. • Low hourly rate. •Most re pairs carried out in your home, if not the computer will be picked up from and delivered back to you. •Problems with Windows / Applications / Games / Inter net / networks fixed . • Friendly training and instruction available in plain English. •Upgrades of hardwar e and software carried out . •Prevent children viewing inappr opriate inter net sites.

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 17 HARPENDEN FARMERS MARKET FOCUS ON A CHRISTMAS IS COMING: Harpenden STALL HOLDER Christmas Carnival WILLOW TREE Sunday 25 November This year’s event will once again be held in conjunction with the monthly Farmers DISTILLING Market. The event will run from 12 noon to 6.00pm, stage acts on the stage area at Church Green from 1.00pm and the main event of the switching on of the Christmas Lights from the stage at 5.00pm. In all the fun don’t forget to witness at 3.00pm, the arrival of the Town Mayor in the walking procession along the High Street, which is always a spectacle not to miss. Why not join the procession! Established in 2016, the Willow Tree Are you part of a group that is active in Harpenden? Would you like to take part Distilling journey has begun with our first in the Christmas Carnival walking procession? No special equipment is needed, product, Willow Tree Gin. This innovative just enthusiasm and a little imagination. We particularly welcome groups who gin was launched in June last year and are musically talented to help bring the procession alive with sound and colour. is produced on our farm in Bedfordshire; It is your opportunity to show off your organisation to the Town. Please contact our family’s home for the past 40 years. Harriet Tamke at the Town Council on Tel: 01582 463668 or Email: harriet. Willow Tree Gin is a premium spirit, [email protected]. lovingly handcrafted in small batches. We use a unique combination of 12 The Harpenden Christmas festivities botanicals including freshly picked herbs from the family farm. Our process of don’t just stop there! selectively smoking botanicals, using special wood from the farm gives Willow Tree Gin Don’t forget Southdown’s its distinctive flavour. Christmas lights are to be To savour Willow Tree Gin at its best as a switched on at 7.00pm classic G&T, we recommend this ‘perfect on Friday 30 November serve’ - Pour 50 ml of Willow Tree Gin over as part of the Southdown plenty of ice. Add 100 ml of a premium Lights and Lanterns tonic water and garnish with a slice of Extravaganza event where lemon and a Kaffir lime leaf, gently bruised. you will see a lantern Enjoy! parade, carols, children’s fairground rides and Come along to Harpenden Farmers market more! Batford’s Christmas to meet Willow Tree Gin’s distiller and lights are to be switched sample this unique gin. You can also find us on at 5.00pm on Sunday at www.willowtreedistilling.co.uk. 2 December.

18 HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL, TOWN HALL, LEYTON ROAD, HARPENDEN, HERTS. AL5 2LX Harpenden Public Halls at 2pm. of Elizabethan England, talk by Visitors very welcome. Details Dr Simon Healy and 27 November, Tel: 01582 621757 Short talks by members. All in the Tuesday 9 - Saturday 13 Small Public Hall, Southdown Road What’s On at 8.00pm. HARPENDEN MUSICAL DON’T MISS A THING! THEATRE - Oliver! For Wednesday 31 to Friday 2 Tuesday 11 further information: www. inclusive SEPTEMBER harpendenmusicaltheatre.com HARPENDEN CHORAL SOCIETY SCHOOL HOLIDAY FOOTBALL Saturday 8 OPEN REHEARSAL - If you are Saturday 13 COURSES – Harpenden Colts/ GUIDED WALK ROUND interested in joining our thriving THE MUSIC MAKERS CHOIR Harpenden Colts OB/Harpenden HARPENDEN with St Albans & and friendly amateur choir and OF HARPENDEN - Presents Rovers in partnership with Watford District Tour Guides - Discover can read music, we invite you to ‘Animal Crackers’, a concert of CSE Trust providing an opportunity the grave of the infamous spy, join us for this rehearsal of the charmingly engaging works on for young people between the hear of the tragic death of the Brahms Requiem. Scores will be an animal theme including: Bob ages of 6 and 11 years to access family doctor, see the oldest provided, admission is free 7.45 Chilcott’s Aesop’s Fables, John football courses for all abilities house in Harpenden. Look at the for 8pm start. Please contact Tavener’s The Lamb, Stanford’s regardless of gender during the old convent, pass the house of Marion Oxley (membership@ The Bluebird, Eric Whitacre’s Seal the celebrated artist, hear about school holidays. The Acre, Cravells harpendenchoralsociety.org). Lullably and Animal Crackers. 8pm Road. For more information visit the famous steeplechase, and St Nicholas’ Church, Harpenden admire the buildings of the world Thursday 20 www.watfordfccsetrust.com/ AL5 2TP. Tickets (including courses renowned research institute. THE ARTS SOCIETY refreshments) £15 adult, £12 All this and more. No need to HARPENDEN AREA DFAS - concession, £6 child/student, NOVEMBER book, just turn up at the War lecture given by Peter Medhurst from Maria tel 07947 800153 and Memorial at 2.30pm and pay the on “I am the very model”, online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ Thursday 8 guide. £5 adults, £2 children, dogs Parodies of Victorian Society in musicmakers, or on the door. HARPENDEN EVENING FLORAL free. More details at Gilbert & Sullivan. For further GROUP - Floral Demonstration www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk details and to join as a member Thursday 18 THE ARTS SOCIETY by Ian Buxton. Harpenden Public Tuesday 11 or attend as a guest visit www. Halls, Southdown Road. 7.30pm. theartssocietyharpendenareadfs. HARPENDEN AREA DFAS - HARPENDEN COMPLIMENTARY org.uk Golden Anniversary Lecture given Visitors Welcome. HEALTH - Nutrition and Health by Mary Alexander on David mini workshop/presentation with Saturday 22 Friday 9 – Sunday 11 Hockney’s Mr & Mrs Clark: Fashion HARPENDEN ARTS CLUB Juliet’s Kitchen, on 9 October, HARPENDEN INDOOR & Lifestyle Icons of the 60s. Using Replacing your Medicine Cabinet, BOWLING CLUB OPEN DAY Hockney’s own commentaries and EXHIBITION - Come and see mini-workshop/presentation - Come and try Indoor Bowling sketches, to explore the characters an exciting exhibition of new, with Theresa Bullock and on any time between 10.00am and and their stories. For further colourful artworks being shown 13 November, Using Crystal 4.00pm at Waldegrave Park. details and to join as a member at the Harpenden Public Halls. for Healing. All at Plough and Beginners and experienced players or attend as a guest, see www. Open 10.00am – 5.00pm Harrow, Southdown Road. 7:30pm are all welcome - we can provide theartssocietyharpendenareadfs. on Friday and Saturday, and – 9:30pm. £5 for non members, bowls and shoes on the day. org.uk 10.00am – 4.00pm on Sunday. includes tea and biscuits. For further information visit our Thursday 25 Admission free, all welcome! Tuesday 11 website: www.harpendenibc.co.uk For more information see HARPENDEN EVENING FLORAL www.harpendenartsclub.org.uk HARPENDEN GARDENING Thursday 27 GROUP - Floral Demonstration SOCIETY – Talk by Bob Brown, HARPENDEN EVENING FLORAL by Theresa Rodrigues. All Saints Saturday 17 November Cotswold Garden Flowers GROUP - Floral Demonstration Church Hall, Station Road. 7.30pm. HARPENDEN CHORAL ‘Plants for Autumn’, on 9 by Barbara Collins. All Saints Visitors Welcome. SOCIETY- presents the October, talk by Johnnie Amos, Church Hall, Station Road. 7.30pm. great Brahms’ Requiem, with Speaker & Broadcaster Q & A Visitors Welcome. Tuesday 25 session and on 13 November, HARPENDEN AND DISTRICT orchestra and soloists. 7.30pm AGM at 7.45pm. Followed by OCTOBER LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY at High Street Methodist Andrew Mikolajski, Author ‘Wall MEETINGS – Life and death Church, Harpenden. Tickets £15 Climbers & Roses for the Smaller Tuesday 2 during the First World War, at (adults), £5 (children, full-time Garden’. All at Roundwood Park HARPENDEN FLORAL Gallipoli and the Somme, as students) including programme School. Non members £3.00 DECORATION CLUB - Floral told by William Leonard Fisher and refreshments, available from entry. Free refreshments. www. demonstration by Moira Neville – talk by Jonathan Sinfield, 23 Tel: 419379 or email tickets@ harpendengardeningsociety.org entitled “Les Fleurs du Temps”. October, The Banana Republic harpendenchoralsociety.org. PARK HALL, LEYTON ROAD AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

IDEAL VENUE FOR CHILDREN’S PARTIES/DISCOS, MEETINGS, CHRISTENINGS, DINNER/DANCES, WEDDING RECEPTIONS, QUIZ NIGHTS, SALES, TRADE FAIRS AND ALL OTHER EVENTS The hall includes a fully equipped kitchen, disabled toilet with baby changing facilities, portable stage and private car park to rear. Fully accessible to disabled users. For further details please contact Harpenden Town Council on Tel: 01582 463664 Email: [email protected] or web: www.harpenden.gov.uk

Telephone: 01582 768278 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk 19 “A vibrant and successful town where people want to live, to work, to invest and to visit” Harpenden Town Council’s vision for Harpenden

Got Something To Say? HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCILLORS Then Forum may be the newsletter to promote it? The Forum Newsletter is not only for the Town Council to keep residents up to date with important current 2018/2019 Town Council projects and initiatives, but it is also the perfect vehicle for groups, Town Mayor clubs and organisations to promote themselves, let the community know what Councillor David Heritage they have been doing or promote an initiative they are working on. Deputy Town Mayor Councillor Brian Ellis So this is your chance to raise awareness about your club, group or organisation NORTH WARD and tell the residents of Harpenden about your forthcoming exciting projects Georgie Calle (Con) and events. t. 07715 993060 e. [email protected] If you would like to seize the opportunity to do this, please contact Heather Scott Pat Kent (Con) at the Town Council on Tel: 01582 463664 or by email on t. 01582 764161 [email protected] to discuss your ideas for what you would like e. [email protected] to have included. Albert Pawle (Con) t. 01582 620617 e. [email protected] LOST AND FOUND SERVICE AT TOWN HALL David Williams (Con) The Town Council offer on behalf of the Police a lost and found property t. 07733 225464 service. Therefore if you have lost an item, please report this to the Town e. [email protected] Council who will be able to document its description as necessary and report SOUTH WARD the information back to the Police as well as possibly reunite the item with Rod Cooley (Con) you if it is handed into the Town Hall. t. 01582 620682 e. [email protected] In addition to this service, we are also able to receive found items which will Brian Ellis (Con) be documented in the same way as any lost property and will be handed to t. 01582 767621 the Police for safe keeping until the owner becomes known. e. [email protected] Direct your enquiries to the Town Council, Town Hall, Leyton Road during Harry Gilham (Con) the opening hours of Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10.00am to 2.00pm or t. 07477 660498 Tel: 01582 768278, Email: [email protected] e. [email protected] David Heritage (Con) t. 01582 761014 If you wish to raise any matters concerning the Harpenden area, this can be done e. [email protected] by contacting the Town Hall at the address on the end of this page. EAST WARD The Town Council Office and the Information Point in Leyton Road are open Rosemary Farmer (Con) between 10.00am to 2.00pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday (closed Tuesday and t. 01582 712076 Thursday) Tel: 01582 768278. Email: [email protected] e. [email protected] Anne James (Ind) Interviews with the Town Clerk at other times by appointment. t. 07817 953173 Forum Editor: Carl Cheevers, Town Clerk. e. [email protected] Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this newsletter was correct Pip Martyn (Ind) at the time of going to print, the Town Council cannot accept legal responsibility for t. 07939 224186 any errors, omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the e. [email protected] standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. Mary Maynard (Con) t. 07774 783509 e. [email protected] HARPENDEN TOWN COUNCIL WEST WARD Chris Canfield(Con) Town Hall, Leyton Road, Harpenden, Herts. AL5 2LX t. 07952 833828 Tel: 01582 768278 e. [email protected] Daniel Chichester–Miles (Con) E-mail: [email protected] t. 01582 768278 Website: www.harpenden.gov.uk e. [email protected] Nicola Linacre (Con) /HarpendenTownCouncil t. 01582 766245 @HarpendenTown e. [email protected] Michael Weaver (Con) Extra free copies of Forum are available from the Library t. 01582 713128 or the Town Hall. e. [email protected] Designed by Splatt Design. 01442 217589. www.splattdesign.co.uk 01442 217589. Designed by Splatt Design.