Issue 43 of Redbourn News Autumn

The Newsletter of Redbourn Parish Council Autumn / Winter 2017/18

Redbourn Parish Council Redbourn Parish Centre, The Park, Redbourn, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 7LR

The Parish Council office, normal opening hours: Monday – Thursday: 10.00 - 4.00 Fridays: 10.00 - 1.00 Classics on the Common, see page 9 Tel. 01582 794832 CLOSED: 25th – 29th Dec, & 1st Jan

ALSO IN THIS EDITION OF CLERK TO THE COUNCIL: Nish Khanna [email protected] REDBOURN news: DEPUTY CLERK: Chris Kenny FACILITIES OFFICER: Zoe Urrejola Green Belt development latest, p 2 COMMUNITY OFFICER: Becky Firth

WEBSITE: Redbourn Neighbourhood Plan: www.redbournparishcouncil.gov.uk public consultation announced, p6 TWITTER: @Redbourn_Parish FACEBOOK: Redbourn Parish Council Redbourn Christmas events p 5 & 25 ROOM BOOKINGS: 01582 794832 Hire charges on page 26

COUNCILLOR CONTACTS: See back page AND MUCH, MUCH, MORE INSIDE! CHAIRMAN & NEWSLETTER EDITOR: Cllr. David Mitchell

The staff and councillors of Redbourn Parish Council wish you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!

Page | 1 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

CHAIRMAN’S NOTES Cllr. David Mitchell

Yet another update on housing!

St Albans District Council is having to start again with a new Local Plan for development in the district. The government inspector failed the previous draft plan saying SADC hadn’t fully co-operated with neighbouring planning authorities, and in June the High Court upheld his view. The government has since announced that it is introducing a standardised methodology for deciding on housing needs figures. This will see a requirement to build many more houses in the district, with the annual housing number being raised from the previous figure of 435 to around 913. Whilst recognising that housing is much needed, it is a worry that all the additional development sites will be on Green Belt. In the previous plan, 4000 houses were proposed on the district’s Green Belt, but now the figure will probably be over 11,000 i.e. nearly three times as many. Exactly where development will take place has yet to be decided but it’s likely that many of the new houses will be allocated to sites in and around Redbourn Parish. In addition, Dacorum Borough Council is considering building 3000 new houses on Green Belt north of Hemel Hempstead. The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), amongst others, argue that housing needs in the south east can be met by using brown field sites without raiding the metropolitan Green Belt. Redbourn Parish Council will continue to oppose extensive loss of our Green Belt in order to maintain the rural nature of our Parish. Neighbourhood Plan Working with local residents, Redbourn Parish Council has prepared a Neighbourhood Plan, with approximately 144 new houses around the village. We believe this will meet local housing need but clearly little of the St Albans District’s need or London’s overspill. Our Neighbourhood Plan will be available to view on our website and elsewhere during a regulation 14 public consultation running from 2nd January to 16th February 2018. Do take a look and let us know what you think, good or bad. More details can be found on page 6. New Hertfordshire County Councillor Following the May 2017 elections, we now have a new County Councillor, Annie Brewster. Congratulations to her, and we look forward to working with Annie on matters relating to Redbourn. Herts County Council is responsible for road, schools and libraries amongst other things, so if you have any relevant issues, you can contact Annie directly at [email protected]. New MP And following the recent retirement of former cabinet minister, Peter Lilley, we also have a new MP for Hitchin and Harpenden, the constituency which includes Redbourn Parish. Congratulations to the new incumbent, Bim Afolami. In his election campaign he said that education is one of his main areas of interest. He also expressed his commitment to protecting the Green Belt. To contact him, you can find his details on the back page. Award for the Common One of the things that Redbourn residents value the most is our Common. Redbourn Parish Council owns the land having been given the Common in 1948 by the Earl of Verulam, and we look after it for the benefit of the local community. I’m pleased to say that, thanks to it being nominated by Redbourn-In-Bloom, Redbourn Common has been awarded the Eastern Region’s Biodiversity Award 2017. This is a tribute to the hard work of our RPC staff, the Commons Committee, chaired by Cllr Colin O’Donovan, and our contractor and groundsman, John Pigeon. It’s also great to see the Common being used for numerous community events such as Folk on the Common, the Classics Motors Show and most recently, the Fireworks Display. There is no doubt that the Common is a great asset to Redbourn. And for good measure, Redbourn also won Gold in the Anglia-in-Bloom small town category. Many congratulations all round! Pictured left to right, Cllr Colin O’Donovan and John Pigeon Finally … I would like to wish everyone in Redbourn a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! And if you’re going to the Redbourn Christmas Market on 3rd December – keep an eye out for the Nutcracker soldier!

Page | 2 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

CLERK’S CORNER

Well, it’s been another busy year for the Team!

Over and above our everyday activities, we have had several projects on the go. These include repairs to the museum, planning the refurbishment of the Flamsteadbury Lane play area with an outdoor gym, extending a car park on the Common, important and historic document scanning and continuing our major tree works program.

Over the last couple of years, we have implemented some tighter processes around finance and administration which resulted in an unqualified audit for 2016-17 – which, oddly, is a good thing!

The Parish Centre continues to be a popular venue for private and commercial hire and we often receive great feedback on this wonderful village asset. Please contact us if you are planning a family celebration or require a meeting room for your business/organisation. I’d like to thank Chris, Zoe and Becky for all their hard work this year – I and Redbourn are lucky to have such a dedicated team – and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Nish Khanna, RPC Clerk

Left to right: Chris Kenny, Deputy Clerk; Becky Firth, Community Officer, Nish Khanna, Clerk, Zoe Urrejola, Facilities Officer

Ken Hodson

Computer Hardware and Software Repairs, Individual Tuition Upgrades and Advice for Home and Business Tel. 07974 156743 / 01582 794723 Email: [email protected]  No fix, no fee for all repairs – you have nothing to lose.  Low hourly rate.  Most repairs carried out in your home, if not the computer will be picked up from and delivered back to you.  Problems with Windows / Applications / Games / Internet / networks fixed.  Friendly training and instruction available in plain English  Advice given on upgrades – many older computers can be upgraded at a fraction of the cost of a new machine.  Upgrades of hardware and software carried out.

Page | 3 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

COMMONS COMMENTS Cllr Colin O’Donovan, Chairman of Commons & Open Spaces Committee

PARKING You may have noticed that we have repaired and reinstated the car park at corner of Lybury Lane to its original size. The reasoning behind this is to make more parking spaces available around the Common as parking on the Common continues to be an issue. The overflow car park by the Cricket Club has now been closed – there should be no reason for people to park on the Common other than in the allocated areas.

CUMBERLAND GARDENS Repairs have been carried out to the pathway at both entrances of the Gardens. Grounds and gardens continue to be maintained and will be used to host the Christmas Market on 3rd December. Please note that dogs should be kept on a lead whilst walking through Cumberland Gardens as well as picking up mess. PLAY AREAS Flamsteadbury Lane We are pleased to inform you that the replacement and refurbishment work on this area will be starting this month and should be finished within the month. This will include a designated toddler and junior area with 2 new climbing frames, a roundabout net, springers and swings – hopefully something for everyone! We have plans to install an outdoor gym and goal posts (outside of the play area) however, there will a delay in installation due to planning permission issues. We are hopeful this will happen in early January 2018.

NICKEY LINE We are in the process of obtaining quotations to repair the entrances on the Nickey Line at Chequer Lane. ST Albans District Council has taken over the running of this area but we still have some money in the budget for these repairs.

IGAS Heating Ltd, your local, honest and reliable plumbing, heating and gas specialists.

No job too big or

small; from leaky taps to full central heating installations.

Call today for FREE quote or friendly advise.

M: 07380 803 642 Email: [email protected] T: 01727 537076 www.herts-heating.co

Page | 4 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Redbourn Christmas Market Sunday 3rd December, 11am – 5pm This year will be the 6th annual Redbourn Christmas Market - come along and support this fantastically festive community event and kick off your Christmas. Stars from Harpenden Public Hall’s panto will be opening the event.

This year there will be over 90 stalls selling a great variety of products, many made within our community. Food and drinks will also be available to keep you refreshed, including a BBQ and beer by the Cricketers and mulled wine and mince pies. We have some great entertainment planned throughout the day, including Ebony Steel Band – Europe’s leading steel band, as well as local performers. There will be many activities to keep the children entertained too, including Christmas craft, Santa’s grotto and toasting marsh mallows. This year we have some amazing raffle prizes on offer, including a John Lewis hamper worth £250 – please do buy a ticket as this is one of the main ways we raise funds for the event. The Christmas lights in Cumberland Gardens will be switched on by our new local MP around 4:15pm. Look out for the free Programme with event details that will be dropping through your letter box a couple of weeks before Market Day or visit our website: . redbournchristmasmarket.com Your support is greatly appreciated and we really look forward to seeing you on the day. We are still looking for volunteers to help us with the event from baking cakes, to car park monitoring and selling mulled wine. If you can spare an hour, please get in touch: [email protected] The Redbourn Christmas Market is a not for profit event organised by volunteers for the benefit of the community. All the funds raised go towards event costs and funding Christmas lights for Cumberland Gardens.

Alex Schofield

Redbourn Cars Private Hire/Taxi

Your Village Service for over 25 years

Local, Long Distance and Courier Service

AIRPORT SPECIALIST Volvo Saloon and Estate Cars

Accounts Welcome

Bookings 01582 793268 Richard & Louise

www.redbourncars.co.uk

Page | 5 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN latest news Work on the Neighbourhood Plan was temporarily put on hold for 6 months as a result of St Albans District Council’s (SADC) legal battles over the Strategic Local Plan (SLP). A Judicial Review was held in June and the judge dismissed the Council’s case, meaning the plan has been withdrawn and they will have to begin the process again. As a new SLP may take a few years to complete, the working party has decided to push on now with work on Redbourn’s Neighbourhood Plan. Redbourn Neighbourhood Plan Recap A Neighbourhood Plan is a community-led document which shapes and influences future growth and development in an area. It allows local people to have a say over where they want new homes, shops and offices to be built, provides the ability to protect green spaces and identify the infrastructure needed due to new development. As a result of several community engagement events and projects over the last few years, the Redbourn Neighbourhood Plan working party has identified 4 sites providing residential development of approximately 144 homes. The residential sites are: Land to the east of Redbourn at Ver Meadows (approx. 100 homes), land off Blackhorse Lane (11-14 homes) land off Dunstable Road by the Leisure Centre (12 homes ) and land at the back of Scout farm on Dunstable Road (approximately 18 homes). One site identified for employment use off Gaddesden Lane has been discounted now and so this and other issues of parking in the village are being further explored by the working party. Next Steps On 2nd January 2018 the Redbourn Neighbourhood Plan working party will be launching a public consultation which will run for just over 6 weeks until 16th February. More in depth details will be shared with the community at local events, plus information provided on noticeboards, websites and via social media. Copies of the draft plan will be also be made available for people to read at various locations in the village.

For more information see: www.redbournplan.org.uk or contact Becky Firth, Community Officer on: 01582 794832 or via email: [email protected]

Redbourn Community Library in Lamb Lane is now completely run by volunteers. If you are not a member please do visit us and we will show you what the benefits are. As well as books we have magazines, computers, printer, scanner, fax machine and photocopier and our very friendly and helpful volunteers will be happy to help you. We have a small number of new books on display each week and a display section of ‘themed’ books so you can try a new author. At present it is ‘Autumn Reads’. If you want a book that we don’t have in the Library we can always order it for you. You may have seen some of the volunteers in white t-shirts or grey sweatshirts/hoodies with our new library logo on. The logo was designed by two children in the village following a competition earlier in the year. We have a number of activities for children on Fridays and also had over 100 children taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge. As a community library we need to raise our own funds, so we sell nearly new books in the library and at local events including at U3A meetings. So please come along and buy or if you have any nearly new books that you no longer want please donate them to us. You will see us next at the Library stall at Redbourn Christmas Market. Lesley Hall

Page | 6 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Page | 7 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

New Working Parties

Calling all RESIDENTS of REDBOURN, LOCAL BUSINESSES

and COMMUNITY GROUPS High Street Regeneration Communications in the Community COMMUNITY GROUPS Shops and businesses being converted into We want to improve the quality of communications residential – Planning Policy! between both the Parish Council and the team in the Parish Centre with you, the community. Are we easy to High business and rental rates – can deter communicate with? potential new businesses! Do you know what we are responsible for, and what the Do you shop in YOUR High Street? District and County Councils do? If not, what would entice YOU to shop in YOUR How can we simplify, speed up and provide effective High Street? contact with the Parish centre? It all sounds a bit dramatic, but it’s a real concern Are the web sites for the village and parish council and one that can worsen! effective? The Parish Council have set up a working party to Can we make better use of social media such as look at how the High Street can better serve its Twitter, Facebook and Instagram? residents and local businesses. It a tough ask due to many external factors that our out of our control, These are some of the challenges that the we can only try and you never know, a small “Communications in the Community” working party will change can make a big difference! be tackling in 2018. We need you to tell us! Your thoughts, ideas or suggestions will be most welcome, email: [email protected] [email protected]

For all your building improvement, renovation and maintenance:  New Build  Extensions of any size  Carpentry and Construction  Beautiful Bathrooms  Roof repairs and guttering  Fencing and Landscaping  Plumbing and Heating  UPVC replacement doors, windows, fascias and soffits  Certified Electrical Work

 Fabulous Kitchens  Loft Conversions  Refurbishments

Call 01582 794079 or Mobile 07776 233 650 email [email protected] website: www.hauskraft.co.uk 80 High Street, Redbourn, AL3 7LN

Free estimate and advice. All work guaranteed, insured and carried out by skilled tradesmen. NHBC Registered Builders NAPIT Registered Electricians – all electrical work undertaken

Page | 8 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN CLASSICS MOTOR SHOW

Redbourn Classics Motor Show was held for the first time on Redbourn Common on 16th September and despite the weather raised just under £8,000 after expenses, a great success! The money raised was divided between The Friends of St Mary’s (a conservation charity which conserves St Mary’s Church and grounds for use by the village) and Redbourn Care Group (a charity which aims to combat loneliness and increase mobility for residents of Redbourn). These were not the only organisations that benefitted, as 22 local voluntary organisations raised money with their stalls. The museum also hosted a selection of supercars and a transport exhibition. In addition to 200 classic vehicles including cars, trucks, motorbikes and tractors, there were other activities such as a bell ringing tower, kiddie’s go-karts and a bouncy castle as well as the Redbourn Fire Brigade. Entertainment was provided by Redbourn Jazz Band, Streams of Brandy and Flibbertigibbet, Tilly’s Dance Factory and Mr Collie Wobbles, while the local library issued reading scheme certificates. The success of the event demonstrates how caring Redbourn is and many people have commented on the friendly, happy atmosphere and the numbers of people at the event on the day. This was a great day for classic cars and a great day for families. We would like to thank our sponsors: Redbourn Auto Solutions, Redbourn Parish Council, The Holly Bush, Statham’s Motor Engineers and St Albans van hire for supporting the event. We will do it again next year but we do need an army of volunteers to make it successful. So if you would like to be involved please contact [email protected] The Organising committee would like to thank everyone who supported us to a make the day a success. Jenny & Nick Gilmore; Wendy Bloisi; Chris Little; Deana Barge; Samantha & John Statham; Barry Welch; Peter Robey; Ian Wooding-Jones; Teresa Finnigan; Peter Rowland and Brian Gunson

Wendy Bloisi

Page | 9 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

A Great Win for Redbourn Bowls Club

Redbourn Bowls Club crowned its 2017 season with victory in one of the two competitions held every October at Warner Hotels’ Lakeside Resort on Hayling Island. Over 100 bowlers participated including 12 from Redbourn Bowls Club. In the first competition between teams of four bowlers, the Club’s three teams won two of their three opening matches but could not progress to the later knock-out rounds. But in the second competition, between teams of three bowlers, one of the Redbourn teams moved steadily into the Final where their opponents were from a Southampton bowls club that boasts more than 200 members compared with Redbourn’s 40. The Final was a closely fought encounter with an enthusiastic audience cheering every good shot. Not what we are used to at the Redbourn Leisure Centre but the team held its nerve and won by the narrow margin of two shots. The Redbourn team (pictured left) was Martin How, Margaret Davis and Vic Allen (skip). Back home, the Club’s Winter League is held at Woodside indoor Bowls Centre at Garston from November until February and then it will be only weeks until the start of the new season.

A number of our more experienced bowlers will not be available next season. We shall be making every effort to attract new members to strengthen our resources for 2018. The Club would love to hear from anyone interested in the game, whether a seasoned bowler or a complete beginner. He or she can be assured of a warm welcome and given every opportunity to enjoy the challenge of bowls and the companionship that goes with it. And the 2018 season is likely to end with a return trip to Lakeside and, who knows, with another competition triumph. Martin Howe, Chairman, tel. 01582 792074 CHRISTCHURCH Christmas is Coming! CCR By the time you’re reading this, Redbourn Fireworks display will have happened and that means the official count-down to Christmas has started in our household! In fact, we’re thinking of getting a (chocolate, of course) advent calendar for November… to count-down to Advent! Christmas is a fantastic time of year and one of the reasons I enjoy it so much is the wonderful variety of things happening at Christchurch. We’re using our page this month to let you know what’s going on during festive season. Further information (and booking details) can be found on our website (www.christchurchredbourn.org.uk). All are welcome to our services and events. Please do come along – we’d love to meet you. Friday 1st Dec: Munch and Natter (our over 55’s group) Christmas Lunch. A wonderful occasion that you definitely want marked on your calendar asap! Do remember to book your place (details online). Sunday 3rd Dec: Redbourn Christmas Market. We’ll be there, in a marquee, with lots of free, fun activities for all ages. Come along and say hello! Sunday 10th Dec: Family Carols. Come and enjoy our Starfish (parents + toddler group) nativity, part of a family friendly, lively, Christmas service. Service starts at 10.30am, Redbourn Junior School and is followed by yummy festive refreshments! Saturday 16th Dec: Gingerbread House Making. It’s back again! Our ‘Family/All Age’ building session is 3.30pm – 5.30pm and then the ‘Adults & Teens’ session follows on from 7pm – 9pm. Check out our website (under What’s On’) to download a booking form or email [email protected]. Places are likely to go quickly so don’t hang around booking! Sunday 17th Dec: Carols by Candlelight. New for 2017! This will be a more traditional carol service, held at our Fish Street building at 7pm. All are very warmly invited to this. Monday 25th Dec: Christmas Day. Join us at 10am (at Redbourn Junior School) for a 45min, all age service to celebrate the birth of our Saviour. Lou Bailey – Member of CCR congregation

Page | 10 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

th Quiz Night at The Cricketers Sun. 26 November The Cricketers Pub is very kindly holding its next Quiz night in aid of Redbourn in Bloom. Teams of 6, tickets £10 each including food & a bottle of wine per table. Book your table now by ringing 01582 620612. If you would like to join one of the Redbourn in Bloom teams, (our tables will be on the ground floor), please ring Pat Schofield on 793096. Holiday in the Shropshire area 7th – 11th May 2018 Join us on our 5 – day coach tour in May. We shall be travelling to the Shropshire area and visiting some beautiful gardens and places of interest each day, including on the outward and return journeys.. We still have some vacancies! We shall be staying at the Mercure Hotel, Bewdley Heath, (near Kidderminster), on a half- board basis. The cost is approx. £450 per person, plus entrance fees as required. Non – members are very welcome. If you are interested in joining us, or would like to find out more, please contact Sue or Mike on 01582 793376 or email [email protected]. Open Gardens 16th & 17th June 2018 We are already looking forward to this very enjoyable village event, which is held biennially. We would welcome a few more gardens – large or small, well established or still developing – to join the list. If you would be interested in opening your garden, please contact Janet Lang on 01582 792907, email [email protected]. Anglia in Bloom We are delighted to report that Redbourn again won GOLD in the regional campaign for 2017, in the Small Towns category. Redbourn Common also won the special award for Biodiversity. Redbourn Infants’ School received a nomination in the Young People’s category, and Rita Green in the Mike Ames Award for her long and outstanding contribution to the “in Bloom” effort.

Join Redbourn in Bloom Membership of Redbourn in Bloom costs only £5 per household per year. You will receive a quarterly newsletter, reduced entry fee to some of our events, and a 10% discount at Hertfordshire Garden Centre. We are also looking for new volunteers to help with our planting and weeding, or to assist at events. We especially need a few strong people to help occasionally with heavier tasks associated with our planting schemes, or to help set up tables and chairs. One or two new committee members with ideas to contribute would also be very welcome. Please contact: Pauline Williamson, Membership Secretary, on 01582 792931, email [email protected], or Mike Thain, Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 01582 793376, email [email protected] Pat Schofield

Page | 11 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

We are open every day including Weekends - 9am - 5.30pm DOGS are welcome. See you soon, Lindy & Simon

Also open at the “Bike Loft” 70 High St., Redbourn, AL3 7LN 9.00am - 6.00pm, Open Mon to Sat Call Andy on 01582 742900 to Book your Winter Bike Service

Page | 12 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Established in 1980 to help combat loneliness and improve mobility for residents

www.redbourncaregroup.co.uk Registered Charity no. 297955

Proud Winners in the ‘Community’ category, CPRE ‘Rural Living Awards’ 2016

Are you missing out on this local Taxi Voucher Scheme? The Taxi voucher scheme is still running and is currently half way through the year so only half the vouchers will be issued until renewal in April. Taxi Vouchers valid from the 1st Oct – 31st March to the value of £30.00 (15 x £2 vouchers) are available to St Albans City & District Council residents if you are: A resident with a permanent disability and • Do not have regular access to a private car Or • A resident who is over 75 years of age and • Do not have regular access to a private car. Write with your address to Katy Keay, Assistant Regulatory Support Officer, Community Services, St. Albans City & District Council. Or call: 01727 781815. We also have a few spare application forms in our office at the Village Hall where additional help is available.

What a show!! What a fantastic event the Redbourn Classics Motor Show in September turned out to be? If you weren’t there then you missed a great afternoon out for all the family. The cars, tractors, bikes and commercial vehicles were the headline star attractions, but there was a multitude of stalls, activities and entertainment for kids and adults, making it the best village fete in Redbourn for many years. Numerous volunteers helped to make the event a great success and we cannot thank them enough. The generosity of the public, together with the commercial and parish council sponsorship ensured that the Care Group and Friends of St Mary’s benefitted from vital funds raised for their charitable purposes. We ran a free competition to ‘Find the Care Bus’ and our congratulations go to villager, Mrs Kerry McGeachy, who won a round of golf for 4 people, courtesy of Redbourn Golf Club. We thank the ‘Friends’ for including the Care Group as a beneficiary. For our part it was a privilege to organise and supervise the marshals & bucket collectors on the day. Grateful thanks also to 20 of our members who helped as volunteers throughout the day. What a team!!

Could you be a Friend to Redbourn Care Group? Not everyone can help us in a practical way by driving or otherwise helping our clients, but some supporters do want to help in a financial way throughout the year. You too may be thinking about making a regular contribution to the benefit of Redbourn residents. If so, why not phone or go to our office and ask for one of our Standing Order forms which enable you to make a small monthly donation to the Care Group or the Care Trust. All donations are gratefully received and help make a difference to the service we are able to provide.

Care Bus Outings – a wonderful treat for people in need of some good company. We have up to ten places on the bus twice monthly, which is good news for twenty people to have a change of scenery each month. We provide a door-to-door service for a very reasonable cost of just £3. If you would like to try it out, call our organiser Annie Lowe on 01582 794615 for enquiries and reservations. Some mobility is a must for this service. Next dates are:- November 2nd & 16th plus a Christmas Lunch on December 12th. Our full programme resumes in March 2018.

Help us with your Time and Talents  We are always looking for additional support from villagers. Please speak

to or email our office to learn more. Come and join a great team of volunteers! Funding Plea  Our running costs average £25,000 each year. If you could raise some money for us or consider a legacy in your will, please contact our office for more information. If You Need Us  The Care Group Office at the Village Hall is open 9.30 –12 Mon-Fri or phone 01582 794550. Please give at least 48 hours notice for lifts wherever possible. Non urgent enquiries can be sent to [email protected]

Barry Welch, Chairman; [email protected]; 01582 626443

Page | 13 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN

FIREWORKS NIGHT

Thank you to all of you who came and watched the firework display this year! Each year Fantastic Fireworks put on a display that surpasses the previous year – I hope you agree! This display is a brilliant example of what a community event should be. It is a self-funding event and is only possible through the hard work of the Firework Display working party along with a band of volunteers on the night. Without their commitment and energy, it would not happen. Which is why it is important that we have local business sponsors, bucket donations and the raffle. Therefore, we would like to thank the following people:

 Fantastic Fireworks  Our local celebrity Sara West for her excellent (and funny!) commentary  All the sponsors (as shown opposite) and raffle prize donators (shown below)  Redbourn Scouts for the refreshment stall and loan of equipment  Brendan of BME AV for providing the excellent sound system and his support  Big thank you to Ian Wooding-Jones of Redbourn Autos for his help in transporting and setting up the car park lighting  Hertfordshire Steam Club for their loan of stakes for fencing  All the volunteers who helped in whatever way possible from setting up on Saturday morning, rattled buckets, sold raffle tickets, ensured safe car parking and road management and counting up monies from the buckets.  Mario Violentano who is chair of the working party and ensures that the event all comes together.

We are always looking for more volunteers and if you are interested in joining the working party or just helping on the day, please contact Chris Kenny on 01582 794832 If you could not find a bucket donation collector on the night, it is not too late to donate. You can bring your donation into the Parish Centre, simply place in an envelope marked ‘Redbourn Fireworks’. Many thanks. Chris Kenny on behalf of the firework display working party Raffle winners: Red letter day donated by Firework working Party Martin Wiggley Meal for 4 donated by Hollybush Pub Anne Mundye Meal for 2 donated by Cricketers Elaine Meal voucher for £30.00 donated by The Chequers Ursula Bradley Meal for two donated by Old Cottage Chip Shop Pat Schofield Glenfiddich whiskey donated by The George Andrew Bottle Prosecco donated by Co-op Jennifer Tickets to show donated by Redbourn Players Godfrey Floral display donated by Arrangements Simon Voucher donated by Atelier John Turpentine Voucher donated by Ge Ge Hair and Beauty Bridget Jones Hair cut donated by the Village Barber Barry Welch Boxed gift donated by Crown pharmacy Alex Urrejola Animal gifts donated by Nine Lives Vet Tracy Carr Voucher coffee/cake donated by The Hub Vickers Box of Quality Street donated by Co-op Mrs Buckingham Box of Celebrations donated by Co-op Jane Owen

Page | 14 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Our grateful thanks go to our fireworks NIGHT sponsors

CHANGING VIEWS REDBOURN MOT CENTRE Making beautiful handmade curtains and blinds. No repairs - just a fair test! High Street, Redbourn 01582 794138 01582 794000

HOPTON & FURLONG REDBOURNBURY MILL Bespoke jewellery, Engagement & wedding rings. Redbournbury Mill is pleased to make a contribution to Redbourn Firework Display 2017. 01582 799040

B&M CARE STATHAMS MOTOR ENGINEERING LTD Care home for older people. Transport Solutions Commercial vehicle recovery and repairs St Matthews, Chequer Lane, Redbourn Commercial Yard, Watling Street, Dunstable, LU6 3QP 01582 792042 01582 843220 www.stathamsrecovery.co.uk

REDBOURN AUTO SOLUTIONS CRICKETERS PUB Industrial Estate, High Street Redbourn, AL3 7LG The Common, Redbourn

01582 679300 [email protected] 01582 620612

RPM BUILDERS ADVICEWORKS Established in 1978, we carry out anything from We offer bespoke life planning and financial solutions. property refurbishments to hard landscaping, loft 01582 799087 conversions and new builds. 01582 794481

RS HARDING REDBOURN BUSINESS SYSTEMS LTD Chartered Accountant Powering AdvantageNPF, the integrated CRM, Fundraising, Membership, Alumni and Event database Mercer House, 5 High Street, Redbourn solutions. The Priory, High Street, Redbourn 01582 794864 www.rsh-accounts.co.uk 01582 794229 www,advantageNFP.com

HALLS VEHICLE SERVICE HERTS STEAM CLUB For all your servicing, mechanical and MOT repairs. www.hertssteam.co.uk 01582 794836

REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL GRANTS 2018 Each year Redbourn Parish Council awards grants to local residents and organisations to support events and projects that benefit the Redbourn community. If YOU need help with funding, we may be able to help. Contact the Clerk for further details: [email protected] or tel. 01582 794832

Page | 15 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN VILLAGE MUSEUM

How Redbourn Museum celebrated the 1700s

This year our events have had an 18th Century theme because we are now in the seventh year of our Redbourn Through the Centuries project. We started in April with an overview of the Georgian era through a fascinating talk from Kate Morris. This gave us the idea of a guided walk around Redbourn so that we could hear about the historic buildings whilst seeing them for ourselves. Mario Violentano was the leader for two very successful walks in September and October and he brought the coaching era alive for us in the High Street and explained how Redbourn has changed since.

“Redbourn Town”, as it was known, was an important staging post in the 18th Century and transport was a theme for several other museum activities this year. The annual Redbourn in Steam event always draws crowds to see the traction engines that helped to build our roads. This year, we had full size and miniature engines in equal

numbers on one of the hottest days of the summer.

In contrast, bringing us right up to date was a stunning display of Ferrari cars as part of the first ever Redbourn Classics event. This attraction helped to bring over one hundred visitors into the museum and others enjoyed the lovely garden for their picnics. st The garden was also used by 1 Redbourn Guides for their centenary celebrations and we are very keen for other village organisations to hold exhibitions and events at the museum in the future. Our final event of the year will be the screening of the film of Jane Austen’s “Sense and Sensibility” which will lead us into the next century of interest and the industrial revolution of the 1800s in 2018.

If you are not already a Friend of the Museum, why not join and benefit from concessions on outings and events? Apply at the Museum, which is open weekends, 2 – 5 pm until Nov 26th.

Pauline Ridgwell, Museum Trustee and Events Organiser

Redbourn Village Museum Presents: “SENSE AND SENSIBILTY” 2.30 pm Saturday 2nd December 2017 Redbourn Parish Centre Tickets at the door £6 (Friends £5) Ice creams during the interval and mulled wine and mince pies after the performance. Advance booking: Pauline Ridgwell (01582 626055), [email protected]

Page | 16 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Neighbourhood Watch has been active within the village for over 10 years and we are continuing to expand the membership which is good news for all of us. What is your role in being a member, you may ask. You may recall that Neighbourhood watch is run by residents for residents, this means keeping a watchfull on what is going on around you and if you see any thing suspicious calling the police on either 101 for non emergancies, or 999 if there is an ongoing incident. We are the eyes and ears that help the police keep us safe.

If you are not registered and would like to become a member, you can do so by registering on www.owl.co.uk

One of the most frequent issue we come across is petty theft from motor vehicles and mostly this is down to the owners not locking their cars. Modern security for cars is nominally very good and a key is required to steal them, but if it is left unlocked they become a pandoras box of loose change, possibly there for parking, charging cables for phones/gadgets, clothing, the list goes on. So please secure your vehicles when you leave them, even on your drive during the day. With crimes like these the police can only be reacative.

As the evenings draw in, the tempretures drop and the curtains are drawn we need to say vigulant and be aware of uncharacteristic activities around our areas. For more information you can visit the following web site www.herts.police.uk/protectyourhome Unfortunately, Cybercrime is still on the increase with phishing emails, identity fraud, spyware and ransomware so please make sure you do not become a victim. ‘Don’t Open the Door’ has been largely replaced by ‘Don’t click on that link!’... Think before you click and that includes attachments! Technology also offers us opportunities to defend ourselves against crime. Just think of the simple smart-phone – it enables you to call for help from anywhere, while GPS technology can pinpoint your location to within a few feet. Most importantly a smart-phone means a camera in your pocket, which can be used to report crime and antisocial behaviour at the time we see it. Computers, tablet and phones should be protected with up to date protection software, are yours? If you are in receipt of a cybercrime activity please forward it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or ring them on 0300 123 2040 Stay warm and safe this winter and keep your home and valuables protected. If you wish to receive any advice on NHW please contact me: Malcolm Wickens NHS Ward Co-ordinator Redbourn [email protected]

Page | 17 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Run Redbourn!

The vibrant changing leaves of the lime trees that tower over the various walkways and pathways of the Common make a stunning sight to behold – indeed other features of autumn, such as the shorter days and the brisk breezy (and often) wet weather are hardly as enticing and desirable. But whatever the conditions, whatever the season, members of Run Redbourn! battle through and they do so in bright tops, and with witty conversation, glitzy running gear, and head-torches if necessary. The club, founded by local resident Rachel Mackie, celebrated its one year birthday in May and its base continues to grow. There are now an average of 8 runs each week - most starting and stopping at the Cricket Club - and 139 active members who have already clocked up more than 3,000 kilometres this year. I joined shortly after moving to the village in 2016 after having hung up my running shoes for nearly 3 years. At the time, parenting had got the best of me and things (healthy or otherwise) had taken a backseat. I joined the groups’ Facebook page with the best of intentions but it actually took me several weeks to appear in the flesh, ready to go. Once I did, I was hooked. It didn’t matter that I was slow, out of shape, and that I spoke a different language (American)…Run Redbourn! caters for runners of all abilities and everyone is welcome.

Of course it’s not just about running. The community spirit, the club’s values, and the social element is an inviting combination - and one that serves to motivate and inspire. To cite an example of this all coming together one has to look no further than in early October where Run Redbourn! completed a parkrun take-over in Heartwood Forest. Around twenty of its club members took over the reins and delivered a delightful parkrun – and not for the first time.

If you are new to running, are a speedy gonzales or, like me, have done some running in the past and need that bit of motivation to get back out there – why not come down one evening and join us. David Vaughan

Page | 18 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN POLICE The long and dark winter months will soon be upon us (dare we mention Christmas?) and as always we would like to remind everyone to take the necessary precaution to stay safe and crime free both at home and when out and about. The Police office will be opened regularly (pending operational requirements) and all are welcome to attend for tailored made advice. Please see local posters while on the High Street and at the Parish Council or visit http://snt.herts.police.uk/Home/ViewTeam for further information and dates. Following a recent incident and concerns from residents, a temporary Antisocial Behaviour Camera will be installed at the very end of the High Street in Redbourn, near the bridge just before the Roundabout junction with the A5183 in order to discourage further incidents. Pc Austin is currently dealing with an unusual number of dog related incidents. Please visit the following link for more information in relation to Dog related Offences: www.gov.uk/control-dog-public. Our Rural Officer Ps Flemons is continuing to tackle our fly tipping issues in partnership with St Albans District Council. Following a fly tipping incident in HOGG END LANE in June 2017, evidence was found within the waste and traced back to a female in London. The offender pleaded guilty at SAMC in September 2017 and fined a total of £635 (including costs). Poaching and hare coursing remains an issue at this time of year with offenders using catapults to shot pheasants and running dogs to chase and kill hares. These are serious offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The offenders are often aggressive towards farmers, causing damage to fields and gates, and drive around country lanes in a dangerous and reckless manner. If you suspect such offences are happening, call the police on 999 with as much detail as possible including location any landmarks, vehicles being used and description of persons and dogs.

Pcso Peduto

Need some information or advice? Come to Citizens Advice in Redbourn

The outreach service in Redbourn Parish Centre has now been running for over a year. We are there every fortnight, and see people between 10am and 12 noon; you can drop in or we can arrange an appointment.

We provide free, confidential and impartial advice. We try to help everyone find a way forward, whatever problem they face. People come to us with all sorts of issues. You may have money, benefit, housing or employment problems. You may be facing a crisis, or just considering your options. We will try to help you sort things out.

Dates coming up are 27th November, 11th December and 5th January. A full list of dates is on posters around the village and on our website.

Citizens Advice St Albans District (CASTAD) Website: www.castad.org.uk Tel: 01727 811118

Anne Brautigam

Page | 19 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN SCOUT GROUP

Redbourn Scout Group (RSG) is one of the biggest youth organisations in the village, providing exciting and challenging opportunities and experiences for over 150 young people: Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Being Scouts that means lots of camping, and this year we undertook a huge inventory of all our equipment, refurbishing/repairing what we could and identifying gaps. The Parish Council very kindly provided us with grant money for some new equipment and funding towards our first ever Easter Egg Trail. This was a huge success, getting large numbers of families from Redbourn and beyond, out and about in the fresh air on Easter Sunday and Monday, using their map reading skills, working out clues and learning about our village and history.

We have also refurbished the Scout hut this summer thanks to a grant funded by the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation London Luton Airport Ltd fund. We spent several weekends at the Scout hut going through the back rooms and sheds in preparation for this and found some very interesting old photos and records.

There are fascinating diaries from previous Scout leaders dating back to WW2 and we now know that there has been a Scout Group in Redbourn since 1928. We discovered that RSG ran an annual pram race, carnival float and there are photos of a Cub football team dating back to 1960.

We’d love to know who the people are in the photographs and/or hear from old Cubs/Scouts or leaders. In 2018 RSG will be 90 years old, so it would be

great to have an event to mark this anniversary. Please do get in touch by

phone or email below if you would like to get involved or can shed any light on

the history or photos. Whilst there have been huge changes in the world around us in 90 years, what is particularly interesting is that in term of everyday issues in Scouting, not much has changed (with the exception of the addition of Beavers and of course girls!) The main topics of discussion were and still are: camping, equipment, fundraising and leader recruitment. Adult help is always needed in order to give young people the opportunity and adventure that is Scouting. We are currently looking for new Cub and Scout leaders and you would be joining a team of fun, committed and experienced leaders with training and support available. Want to find out more? Please contact Becky Firth (Assistant Group Scout Leader) on 07796 332335 or email [email protected].

Page | 20 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN YOUTH CLUB Registered Charity 302451

The Redbourn Youth Club is for 7-13 year olds and meets every Tuesday in term time, from 6.30 to 8.30pm at the Redbourn Parish Centre.

The subs are £3 per session and there is a reduction for siblings. Members enjoy a wide variety of activities including games, music, dance and film - not forgetting the ever popular tuck shop. Or, members can just chill out with friends. New members always welcome!

Page | 21 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Frankie Says “Come to the Panto!”

Incredibly the Panto season is nearly upon us, and this year the Redbourn Players have a spookily special surprise in store. Following hot on the heels of Halloween, the Players are performing a hauntingly original Pantomime entitled ‘Frankenstein’. Now this may seem an unusual choice of subject for an evening of family fun but this is no trick. In fact it’s a treat!

It ticks all the boxes. We have a nail-biting plot (the end of Redbourn as we know it!), an evil baddie (Frankenstein), a classic Dame, a dashing hero, a beautiful heroine, an incompetently comic duo, a band of brave villagers, some very talented children, an axe-wielding parish council official, a vampire, a monster,

songs, dances, colourful costumes and a final denouement in an eerie castle near Flamstead. What more could you possibly want?

Audience participation is also an essential part so you need to know your lines. You must boo the baddie, cheer the hero and say ‘Oh yes it is!’, ‘Oh no it isn’t’, ‘It’s behind you’ and ‘Aah’ in all the appropriate places. Most importantly, though, you must laugh at the jokes, and if you can’t laugh because they really are that bad, then a resigned groan will be enough!

Redbourn Players have a rich history of Pantomime in the village and last year we were pleased to perform a very well received adaptation of ‘Cinderella’ for the hugely successful ‘Living Advent’. Frankenstein is also very much a local production and all but a few of the actors and backstage crew are from the village.

If you fancy a fun, entertaining and inexpensive Christmas night out then please come and support us at Redbourn Village Hall. Performances on Thursday 7th, Friday 8th December at 7.30pm Saturday 9th December at 2pm and 6pm. Tickets cost £10 and £8 (conc.) and are available from Ashtons Estate Agents and Arrangements Florists or by phone on 01582 622667.

David Howell, Chairman

St Matthews, they call us not a care home, but a home. We have some exciting news to share. We have been taking notice of the recent documentary BBC 4 that shows the benefits of having seniors and children 4 and under to communicate, play and have fun with the seniors. All seniors, regardless of dementia or age connect with young children and the children connect with them.

The St Matthews Age No Limit Club is open to mums and babies and youngsters. They will be able to come and chat to the residents; they can bring pets (approval before) but yes bring everybody. This will be so much fun for everyone! In the Club we will be inviting local people to donate their time. We have lined up already kindly donating, a musician, a magician and also a pottery play lady. In good weather, there will be outside play for the children in a safe and secure environment. Already mums in the local community are keen to take part. This will benefit everyone: one young mum said ‘my little ones don’t have grandparents and so they are looking forward to it. They will be making home-made biscuits to bring in.” JANET CRAWLEY

Page | 22 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

By the time you read this Newsletter Redbourn Village Hall will have finished being one of the local chosen Charities who benefited from the Co-op Local Community Fund. A sincere thank you to everyone who swiped their Co-Op Membership card when they shopped. 1% of what you spent on Co-op branded goods was collected in a fund and divided equally between the three chosen charities. However, if you selected RVH to be your nominated charity then all off your 1% was allocated to RVH, we hope you enjoyed spending your 5% too.

The money raised will be used to replace and update the hearing loop and sound system in the Main Hall so that everyone who uses the Hall can enjoy a great sound and feel fully included. To say thank you to Redbourn residents, RVH will be hosting a free "Afternoon Tea Dance" and a “Children’s disco” (separately!) Dates for after Christmas will be confirmed soon.

It is proving to be very difficult to let all Redbourn residents know what is on in RVH, so RVH has a new outside notice board, please keep checking it. RVH also has a new website and Facebook page, plus RVH news is shared in the monthly Common Round too. There is lot’s going on in RVH and we hope to see you here soon.

Season’s greetings from RVHMC Jane Owen, Chair RVHMC

Clerk to RVHMC Office Open: Mon, Wed & Thur 9.30am to 11.30am (during school term time only) Please email/leave a message at all other times Email: [email protected] Office: 01582 792822 RVH Mobile: 07712 658587

New website: www.redbournvillagehall.org.uk Facebook: Redbourn-Village-Hall

FOLK on the COMMON 2017 The rain stayed away this year, and we had a bright and breezy day, which was quite a challenge for the sound crew. But it was another fine afternoon of music, enjoyed by many local families, Redbourn residents and others from further afield. This year’s programme was a showcase of local singers and musicians including regular performers at the Redbourn Folk Club, with m/c Malcolm Hobbs. Pete Morton, who had travelled down from the Midlands, set the concert off to a lively start and was joined ‘on stage’ by a very small dancer from the front row of the audience! Steve and Andy McClennon continued with a selection of well-known pieces, and Julian Mount entertained us with some of his amusing self-penned songs, including ‘How Do You Like My Hat?’ Flbbertigibbet are a trio from Hemel Hempstead who perform regularly in the area and were also ‘on stage’ at the recent Redbourn Classics on the Common. Hannah, Jess and Kathy started singing together while they were at school in St. Albans. They now sing at concerts and festivals up and down the country as Said the Maiden, and recently produced their second cd of traditional songs A record crowd gathered on the grass with picnic baskets and blankets this year, and our thanks to the Redbourn Cricket Club for opening their bar and toilet facilities and to the team from the Cricketers Pub for setting up the burger stall again. Many thanks again to Redbourn Parish Council and Herts, County Council for their financial support, and to Town & Country Estate Agents for the printing and distribution of advertising flyers. Thanks also to our local sponsors, Redbourn Auto Solutions, Redbourn MOT Centre, Saffron Indian Restaurant, and Orchard Farm Cattery – and to our friends Yolande Steger and Tim and Lesley Brooks for their generous financial help. The bucket collection at the end of the day raised almost £300, which is ring-fenced for next year’s event, and we are now making plans for another fine afternoon of music. Thanks again to the Cricket Club for including the date in their Fixture List. Jenny McNaught (Redbourn Folk)

FOLK on the COMMON Sunday June 10th 2018

Page | 23 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Redbourn U3A

continues to grow and thrive!

We have a record number of members who are involved in huge variety of activities, with new groups starting regularly! Since May’s edition of Redbourn News, our monthly meetings have hosted speakers on a variety of topics, from crossing Africa on foot to Amy Johnson, and from a personal recollection of life to a history of the Music Hall. Members have also taken part in holidays to Orkney and Bournemouth, Interest Group visits have included Highgate Cemetery, the Hindu Temple in London, the Charterhouse and Bletchley Park. Members enjoy meals out and social activities such as a Canal trip and a BBQ, and a variety of theatre trips for productions such as Cabaret, Sunset Boulevard and She Stoops to Conquer. Members have also been involved in charity fund raising activities, such as the Race for Life and a Quiz Evening. As well as being very busy with Redbourn’s U3A activities, we sent a team to the U3A Herts Network Quiz in September, where they came in 4th! Well done to them! Now that Christmas is approaching, the pace of events for members is increasing, and we are looking forward to a visit to the Frost Fayre at Hatfield House and a Christmas Lunch – not to mention all the activities planned for the festive season by the Interest Groups themselves. Although membership is currently closed, if you are interested in joining us please contact our Membership Secretary, Ian Caldwell, via email on [email protected] and your name can be placed on our Waiting List. We continue to welcome visitors to meetings, with prior notice given to Anne Finnis at [email protected]

And finally, a plea for help! If you would be able to offer language support to either our German Conversation for Beginners or Italian groups, or some help with a new Bridge group, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Diane Whiskin on [email protected] in the first instance. Many thanks. CAROLINE FOSTER

REDBOURN RECREATION CENTRE & PLAYING FIELDS TRUST Reg. Charity No. 1111215

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EVERYONE ACTIVE. REDBOURN LEISURE CENTRE is holding its first CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR On Sunday, 17th December, 10 am – 3 pm. Many Craft stalls, ideal for buying your Christmas gifts, Santa’s Grotto, Bouncy Castle, Craft Activities, Games & Sports for Children, Raffle, Christmas Music & Carols, Festive Food & Drink … & more! Seasonal fun for all the family! Admission Free

75, Dunstable Road, Redbourn, AL3 7PP Tel. 01582 626202

The Trust has a 15-year management agreement with Everyone Active. We are responsible for monitoring the running of the Leisure Centre on behalf of the local community, and fund-raising for future additions and improvements. If YOU would like to get involved, please contact: Pat Schofield, Chair, Board of Trustees/Directors [email protected] 01582 793096

Page | 24 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

The Magic of Christmas Eve in Redbourn by Hilary Wilson

Let’s start by getting comfortable and imagine it is Christmas Eve. As you open the door to the joyous sound of the carol singers you feel yourself spiritually uplifted by their glad tidings. As you wish them a 'Merry Christmas' you pass round a plate of warm mince pies to keep out the cold. There is great expectation and excitement in the air, even the cat and dog sense it! There are no more chores left to do as the presents are wrapped, the stockings are on the mantelpiece and everything is prepared for Christmas Day. With free time on your hands, you wrap THE NUTCRACKER TRAIL up warm and decide to join the carol singers Fifteen giant Nutcracker Soldiers and their King will be on their merry rounds. positioned at key locations around St Albans, REDBOURN,

Harpenden, Marshalswick and Wheathampstead Eventually you find yourself in the village singing carols around the Christmas Look out for the Nutcracker Trail booklets in St Albans from the tree. There are gold and silver tinsels looping th in-between the branches and the brilliant 18 November. Wander around the city and nearby villages to baubles reflect the colourful decorations of the find the 15 Nutcracker Soldiers and King marked on the map in village shops. At the top of the tree there is a the booklet. As you find each one write his name down on the magnificent angel radiating out pure love for Trail Sheet. Once you’ve found all the names, fill in your details all humanity. We all light a candle and say a and post the Trail Sheet into the St Albans Nutcracker Trail post silent prayer for peace on earth with the box located by the Christmas Market in Vintry Gardens. profound knowledge that our wishes will be heard. As you walk home there is a The Trail will run from the 25th November to the 4th January. wonderful hush, snow is beginning to fall and in the far, far distance you can hear sleigh One winner will be drawn out and will win an iPad Mini. bells ringing. Merry Christmas Redbourn.

Page | 25 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN PARISH CENTRE

Modern, fully equipped Rooms for Hire:

The Main Hall Accommodates up to 100 people, or 80 people seated. Ideal for large meetings, parties, events and activities.

The Conference Room Accommodates up to 40 people or 16 people + tables. Ideal for business meetings, training and seminars.

HIRE CHARGES per room (inc. VAT):

 Residents (private events) and local not-for-profit organisations: £20 per hour  Businesses / commercial use: £25 per hour or £22 per hour for 8+ hours / regular bookings

Discounts if both rooms booked together Discounts for Youth organisations

AV facilities included (please request at time of booking) Use of well-equipped kitchen included For further details contact the Clerk:

01582 794832 [email protected]

MEET YOUR COUNCILLOR:

Cllr Steven Kidd, Chair of the Finance & Policy Committee Despite living locally most of my life, growing up in Welwyn Garden City and living for a while in St Albans, I first became aware of Redbourn when I joined a badminton group playing in the village hall. So when my wife and I started looking to move out of St Albans, I suggested Redbourn as somewhere well worth a look. We bought our house in Brooke End in 2009 and have never regretted it for a day. A year later our eldest arrived and two years after that our second, both girls. And both are loving growing up in Redbourn. I can’t imagine we’ll move away from Redbourn now – it has its hooks well and truly sunk into all of us. I currently work in Hemel, in the head office Finance department of a smallish global company. Before that I worked for 7 years for a hotel group, also in finance, where I met my wife (-to-be). When I have time between work and family I like to play sport as much as my creaking body allows – football is still my main passion but I also play the odd round of golf and do a bit of running. My new year resolution will be to finally get under 2 hours in a half marathon! Or to watch the Wire box set, one of the two.

Page | 26 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

Page | 27 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018

REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL

COUNCILLOR CONTACT DETAILS

Beaumont Ward Nicholls Ward

David Mitchell, Chairman, RPC Dennis Bigham 07973 418124 07944 445350 [email protected] [email protected]

Colin O’Donovan, Vice Chairman RPC Ian Caldwell Chair of Planning Committee Chair of Commons, Footpaths and Open Spaces 01582 794768 or 07528 741947 Committee [email protected] 01582 792382 or 07860 631463 [email protected] Alison Gardner Chair of Management & Communications Committee Steven Kidd 01582 793710 or 07801 658965 Chair of Finance & Policy Committee [email protected] 07738 706679 [email protected] Roger Gray 01582 762914 Teresa Finnigan [email protected] 07968 171654 [email protected] Ivan Hickmott 07977 476692 Maria Maynard [email protected] 01582 793478 [email protected] Pat Schofield 01582 793096 Victoria Mead [email protected] 01582 792280 or 07506 719922 [email protected] ______District Councillors County Councillor Annie Brewster Maxine Crawley 01438 832255 01582 793760 [email protected] [email protected] ______

Victoria Mead - details as above Member of Parliament Bim Afolami Tony Swendell 01582 761796 01582 792076 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.bimafolami.co.uk

REDBOURN news Advertise your business or event in the Redbourn News. Published by Redbourn Parish Council, the newsletter is delivered free to the 2300 homes and businesses in the Parish of Redbourn. Advertisement rates: 1/8 page £25 1/4 page £45 Half-page £85 Full-Page £165 Double-Page £315 Contact the RPC Deputy Clerk for more details: 01582 794832 [email protected]

Page | 28 Redbourn News Published by Redbourn Parish Council Issue 43 Autumn / Winter 2017 / 2018