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CHILDREN’S BALLET, TAP, STREET/JAZZ, STREET DANCE AND MUSICAL THEATRE CLASSES

MORNINGS Mondays in FOR AGES Tuesdays in Hatfield Road 18 MONTHS - 5 YRS Fridays in Cottonmill Lane (PAY-ON-DOOR) Saturdays in Jubilee Centre (Catherine St)

Mondays in Cottonmill Lane AFTER SCHOOL Tuesdays in Hatfield Road & Highfields Charters YMCA CLASSES FOR Wednesdays in AGES 3-15 YEARS Thursdays in St Stephens, Watling Street (opp King Harry pub) Saturday mornings in Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street, Pilates Workshop at Magenta, Ronsons Way

2 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Neighbourhood NEWS In this issue...

Chair’s report 4-6 Marshalswick Community Centre 27 Councillor Janet Churchard A listing of activities and regular hirers Jersey Farm Woodland Park 7 Jersey Farm Community Centre 28 Summer Celebration A listing of activities and regular hirers Saturday 30th June, 1-5pm Spencer Hall 29 Parish Council meetings 2018 8 A listing of activities and regular hirers Dates and venues of Sandridge Parish Council meetings Supporting Sustainability Week 9 Sandridge Village Hall 31-32 A listing of activities and regular hirers Enjoying and caring for our environment Back to nature 10 Local church news 33-34 Find out what’s going on at your local churches Woodland Yoga at Heartwood Forest Hertswise 11 Supporting local residents with dementia and memory loss 35 Noticeboard - Summer 2018 12 In full bloom A listing of contact points What’s been going on Who do I contact? 13 at Heartwood Forest? Useful numbers for many local issues that arise in our parish Jersey Farm Woodland Park 14-15 The beginning and development Education news 16-18 Find out what’s going on at your local schools Parish Council Precept 37 Sandridge Neighbourhood Plan 19 Where your money goes An update on progress Want to inspire others to read? 39 SandPit Theatre news 21 Volunteering opportunities in Marshalswick library Cracking events coming up this summer holiday Probus Club of St. Albans 41 MP profile 23 A forum for retired business and professional people Bim Afolami, MP for and Stagecoach Holiday Workshops 43 Unlock your child’s potential Projects in Free pensioners’ bus timetable 44 Sponsored by Sandridge Parish Council the parish Serving the community 45 It’s been a busy Weekly clubs and groups at Marshalswick Community Centre season! 24-26 Volunteering in the parish 46 Would you like to join a regular volunteering programme?

Cover photo - Woodland Yoga at Heartwood Forest (taken by Judith Parry) Published for and on behalf of Sandridge Parish Council

Published by: LOCAL PUBLISHING LTD Tel: 01727 757475 Circulation: Over 4,750 homes in Marshalswick, Jersey [email protected] Farm and Sandridge. This is equivalent to all of the www.localpublishing.co.uk AL4 9-- postcode area. Editor: STEFANIE HAYES [email protected] EDITORIAL DEADLINE Advertising: NICK HAYES [email protected] If you have an article you would like to be considered for the AUTUMN 2018 issue, please email it to the Address: Neighbourhood News, c/o Sandridge Parish editor by Thursday 16th August 2018 Council, Marshalswick Community Centre, COPYRIGHT - Items in this publication are subject to copyright. The Ridgeway, St. Albans, AL4 9TU Copying in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Unless specifically stated, views expressed in Neighbourhood News are not necessarily those of the editor or of Sandridge Parish Council. While sponsored by Sandridge Parish Council, Neighbourhood News is an independent publication. The editor reserves the right to shorten, modify or reject submitted material. All advertisements, photographs and artwork supplied to Neighbourhood News are accepted in good faith (free of copyright). Neither Sandridge Parish Council nor the editor can be held responsible for goods or services advertised.

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 3 Chair’s report Councillor Janet Churchard

HIS is a report about some of the Manager to bring this project to a successful many activities of the Parish conclusion within a tight budget. Also at TCouncil over the past twelve months. Marshalswick, the toilets adjacent to the It would be impossible to include everything, Parish Office have been refurbished. but I hope this will give an insight into how The Jersey Farm Community Centre the officers, councillors and volunteers have continues to be a popular venue for a variety worked to maintain and improve facilities of activities. within the parish. Sports and Recreation Community Centres The Parish Council continues with its The Parish Council manages the maintenance and development programme Marshalswick and Jersey Farm Community of play areas in all parts of the parish. In Centres. There are activities every night of addition, there are regular inspections and an the week and during most days in the week. independent safety assessment of all At weekends they are used by a variety of equipment. groups and for private parties and events. At Jersey Farm Adventure Playground, the Charges are intended to cover the day to Aerial Runway has been replaced, while at day running costs of the centres so that they Harness Way Recreation Ground, there is a provide useful and attractive facilities at new basketball area. affordable rates. Major improvements to the centres are funded from the Council Tax. Jersey Farm Woodland Park As well as regular maintenance, the toilets The Woodland Park has a five-year at Marshalswick Community Centre have management plan. The current one expires been refurbished to a very high this year, so our Tree Warden and committee standard and with no disruption members have been involved in deciding the to users. The Project priorities for the next five years. and Amenities Much of the basic work, such as tree Officer worked planting, paths and bridleways, has been with the done, but there is still plenty of development Community in the new plan alongside the regular Centres maintenance. A new oak ‘Welcome’ sign has been installed at the Chiltern Road entrance.

4 The Woodland Park achieved the Green The draft plan is currently on the parish Flag Award for the sixth year running, and website for your comments. the committee and officers work hard to maintain the standards required to gain Planning Matters acknowledgement that our park is one of ‘the While the Parish Council has no power to best green spaces in the country’. approve plans, we do review and comment Community involvement continues to be on plans to the District Council. During the very important with regular Task Force Days year we have opposed what we have seen as and Guided Walks. Taking part in over-development and will continue to do so. Sustainable St. Albans Week is a way of The Parish Council created a Planning inviting residents from beyond the parish to Committee in February 2018 to look at come and enjoy our Woodland Park. The applications, in an effort to allow more time Summer Event, held last June, was greatly for discussion. enjoyed and looks likely to become an annual fixture. Council Precept (Tax) For 2018/19 there has been an annual Parish Paths and Environment increase of less than £2.30 in the amount of The Parish Environmental Assets and precept paid to the Parish Council for a Band Paths Committee (PEAP) is responsible for D property. Sandridge still charges one of the helping to secure improvements to the lowest precepts in the District. We aim to footpaths and to help enhance areas of strike a balance between keeping the precept environmental importance such as Skys low and providing services to the community. Wood. PEAP now has a Management Plan, Our Clerk and Deputy Clerk are excellent and the Parish Map they produced has been at finding savings that don’t have a negative delivered to every house in the parish. The impact on residents and achieve value for Parish Map outlines four local walks of varying lengths. We would encourage as money. An example is our use of a single many of you as possible to try them. contractor for grounds maintenance work in You may have noticed that Skys Wood has partnership with Harpenden Town Council been tidied up with coppicing and clearance and St. Albans District Council. work. As a result, the area has been opened up and is looking good. There is a new Grants wildlife information board at the Sherwood As well as those activities directly funded Park entrance to the wood. by the Parish Council, we have also provided grants to local organisations. Some of these Neighbourhood Plan are ‘one off ’ and others are an annual grant. In 2014, the Parish Council set up working Among the grants given are to St. Mary’s parties to develop a Neighbourhood Plan. Holiday at Home, St. Leonard’s Church This has required an enormous amount of Cemetery maintenance and Marshalswick time and effort from volunteers and Youth Project. councillors working together. The result is We are always pleased to receive that we now have a substantial amount of applications for grants from local information about the parish and how our organisations so please contact the Parish residents would like to see it develop. Office if you would like more information.

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 5 Neighbourhood News The Parish Office and Parish Website As this is the heart of our organisation we Our Parish Magazine continues to be well have increased signage to help people find us. received by our residents. Those who have The office is at the Library end of been reading it regularly in recent years will Marshalswick Community Centre. There is have noticed the greater number and variety also an access ramp for those who need a of articles. This is largely due to the pro- little, or even a lot, of help. active approach our independent editors There is a bright tub of plants at the take. Please contact the editors, or the Parish entrance and a warm welcome from the Office, if you have an article you think will officers working inside. These four people are be of interest to others. The Parish Council website and Facebook The Parish Clerk, The Deputy Clerk, The page continue to be well used, making Community Centres Manager (who also communication between the Council and manages the website) and The Projects and our residents smoother. Amenities Officer. On behalf of all councillors, I would like Asset Transfers to thank them for keeping everything going During the year, the Parish Council has during another busy year. Their positive, continued to process the transfer of areas cheerful and helpful attitude is much within the parish from the District Council. appreciated by councillors and residents The William Bell Recreation Area has alike. been transferred this year. Marshalswick Community Centre, the area around it and the car park next to Marks and Spencers Foodhall are about to complete. We believe Kanga and Roo we can manage them well for the benefit of our residents. Areas of concern There are a number of concerns that residents tell us about. Over-development, the state of the verges, irresponsible parking and speeding are some of the issues we regularly take up on behalf of residents. The Oaklands development is now imminent, with all the concerns about traffic, school places etc. Also, four of the main concerns I reported last year are still very much with us: • The expansion of Luton airport and aircraft noise • Symondshyde development to include 1,130 dwellings and traveller site • Speeding in Sandridge and along Sandpit 01727 835949 Lane www.mbfc.org.uk • Bus services

6 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Rural Crafts & Beekeeping

Equestrian Display from Sandridgebury Stables

Dog Show & Amazing Birds of Prey

Tug of War

Live Music & Stalls

Outside Yoga & Guided Walk

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 7 Parish Council meetings 2018 Dates and venues of Sandridge Parish Council meetings

Wednesday 13th June - 7.30pm Wednesday 10th October - 7.30pm Wednesday 11th July - 7.30pm Wednesday 14th November - 7.30pm Wednesday 12th September - 7.30pm Wednesday 12th December - 7.30pm All meetings will take place at Marshalswick Community Centre

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8 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Supporting Sustainability Week Enjoying and caring for our environment

IVING healthily, and enjoying and the Heartwood Forest and Nomansland, caring for our environment - these visiting the ancient Langley Wood and Well L were the key themes of the Parish Wood resplendent in bluebells nearing their Council’s contribution to St. Albans peak of bloom. Sustainability Week. We paused at the Climbing Tree on We opened with a delightful film, Nomansland Common and saw the 15th ‘Babette’s Feast’. A story of a Parisian Chef Century Pudding Stone by the cricket field. who, in the 19th century, went to live in a If you missed it, get a map from the Parish Scandinavian religious community and Office and try it. It’s Walk number 4. prepared a magnificent banquet for the inhabitants without the need for any plastic Talks packaging. Staged at the splendid SandPit Theatre, now renowned for its BBC ‘Spring Wise’, our final contribution to the Question time, it included a sensitive story of week, was held on Jersey Farm Woodland unrequited love and was a moving Park. The day was wet but some twenty experience. hardy souls participated and were treated to Walk an excellent talk on bee keeping by Tom Meadows. Other events planned for that day Sunday 22nd April was one of the finest will be included in our Summer Event on days of the year with brilliant sunshine and Sunday 30th June. a fresh warm breeze. This was the setting for our Spring Walk. Fifty of us strolled around Councillor Neil Harris

The Parish Council supported Sustainable St. Albans Week with a grant of £500 towards their expenses. 45 Back to nature Woodland Yoga at Heartwood Forest

ORKOUT fads come and go, but virtually no other exercise Wprogram is as enduring as yoga. It’s been around for more than 5,000 years! It does more than burn calories and tone muscles; it’s a total mind-body workout that combines strengthening and stretching poses with deep breathing and meditation or relaxation. Woodland Yoga is very excited to be offering a full timetable of classes over the summer at Heartwood Forest. Come and join us for dynamic flowing classes, quiet and still yin yoga, 8 week beginner courses, workshops that witness and honour the seasons and mini retreats to help you to rediscover wellbeing [email protected] from the inside out. www.woodlandyoga.wordpress.com

10 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Hertswise Supporting local residents with dementia and memory loss

HE Hertswise dementia service exercise, seated cricket, quizzes, arts & crafts, launched back in 2017 to provide tea parties and much more. In recent weeks Tsupport for people across there have also been two visits from local living with dementia, memory Police Community Support Officers to the loss and mild cognitive impairment, as well group to talk about community safety. as their families and carers. The service is run countywide by a Advice partnership of organisations including Age Staff members from the household and UK Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire gardening chain Bunnings have also very Independent Living Service, Herts Mind kindly attended to take part in flower and Network and Carers in Hertfordshire, with a herb planting. As well as these activities, the locality worker leading on the service in the Carers Support Worker will also come along district of St. Albans. occasionally to talk to carers and provide Wellbeing practical information and advice. The community group is very well The groups provide a safe and enjoyable supported by both Park Side View and group atmosphere to take part in various activities attendees, although we are always looking to to promote both physical and mental involve the local community in volunteering wellbeing. Having support from the North at the group. If you are interested in giving Herts Home scheme in Park Side View in your spare time for a volunteering Chiltern Road, Marshalswick, the local St opportunity, please get in touch. Albans group is able to run weekly for both For more information about the group and residents and the local community to enjoy. other support available, contact Hertswise on In the past, the group have enjoyed taking the Herts Help telephone number 0300 123 part in activities such as singing, chair-based 4044, Monday to Friday from 8am-6pm.

11 Notice Board - Summer 2018 A listing of contact points throughout the neighbourhood

PARISH COUNCILLORS DISTRICT/COUNTY COUNCILLORS SANDRIDGE VILLAGE WARD Lyn Bolton: DISTRICT - 20 Harefield Place, Natalie Kemp: Blenhame, House Lane, Sandridge, St. Albans, AL4 9JQ Tel: 01727 834699 St. Albans, AL4 9EG Tel: 07884 492 597 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Annie Brewster: COUNTY (Sandridge village) John Newton-Davies: Forge Cottage, 3 Church Fairways, Firs Drive, Gustard Wood, AL4 8LB End, Sandridge, AL4 9DL Tel: 01727 837507 Tel: 01438 832255 Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Janet Churchard: DISTRICT (see Parish list) JERSEY FARM WARD Tom Clegg: DISTRICT - 33 Furze Avenue, St. Albans, AL4 9NF Tel: 01727 835004 Stefania Estacchini: 11 Harefield Place, Jersey Email: [email protected] Farm, St. Albans, AL4 9JQ Tel: 01727 751325 E-mail: [email protected] John Hale: COUNTY (see Parish list) John Hale: 37 Chandlers Road, St. Albans, AL4 9RT Frances Leonard: DISTRICT - 14 Rose Walk, Tel: 01727 837371 E-mail: [email protected] St. Albans, AL4 9AF Tel: 01727 861860 E-mail: [email protected] Bernard Roberts: 5 Pollicot Close, Jersey Farm, St. Albans AL4 9YL Tel: 01727 835509 Beric Read: DISTRICT - 34 Windmill Avenue, E-mail: [email protected] St. Albans, AL4 9TF Tel: 01727 760060 E-mail: [email protected] Jennifer Roberts: 5 Pollicot Close, Jersey Farm, St. Albans AL4 9YL Tel: 01727 835509 E-mail: [email protected] CLERK TO THE COUNCIL Simon Thwaites: Marshalswick Community Centre, MARSHALSWICK NORTH (EAST) The Ridgeway, St. Albans, AL4 9TU Tel: 01727 831871 Janet Churchard: 58 Pondfield Crescent, St. Albans, E-mail: [email protected] AL4 9PF Tel: 01727 860368 E-mail: [email protected] DEPUTY CLERK Claudio Duran: Woodland House, St. Helier Road, Frances Grant Sandridge, St. Albans, AL4 9LQ Tel: 07789 485 052 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] John Foster: 29 Chiltern Road, St. Albans, AL4 9SW PROJECT & AMENITIES OFFICER Tel: 01727 862079 E-mail: [email protected] Rebecca Pannese E-mail: [email protected] June Reid: 43 Windmill Avenue, St. Albans, AL4 9SJ Tel: 01727 837953 E-mail: [email protected] HALLS FOR HIRE MARSHALSWICK NORTH (WEST) The following halls located in the Parish are all Julie Booth: 31 Craiglands, St. Albans, AL4 9AH available for hire by the public. Please telephone Tel: 01727 759066 the relevant contact person for more information. E-mail: [email protected] Marshalswick & Jersey Farm Community Centres Geoff Churchard: 58 Pondfield Crescent, St. Albans, Martine MacRae Tel: 07399 403 650 AL4 9PF Tel: 01727 860368 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Marshalswick Baptist Free Church Cath Cresswell Tel: 01727 861121 Neil Harris: 73 The Ridgeway, St. Albans, AL4 9NR E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01727 760781 E-mail: [email protected] St. Mary’s Church Hall, Sherwood Avenue Graham Leonard: 14 Rose Walk, St. Albans, AL4 Mrs Mary Smith Tel: 01727 866877 9AF Tel: 01727 861860 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Sandridge Village Hall VERY URGENT 999 Mr Brian Ollis Tel: 01727 867417 POLICE E-mail: [email protected] Non-emergency calls/report local incidents 101 Spencer Hall Calling 101 will take you to a call centre, your call will be Nigel Rump Tel: 01727 835506 routed to the correct part of the service

12 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Who do I contact? Useful numbers for many issues that arise in our parish

ISSUES WITH GRASS VERGES, POT HOLES ST. ALBANS HOUSEHOLD WASTE AND PROBLEMS WITH STREET LIGHTS AND RECYCLING CENTRE (RONSONS WAY) Hertfordshire County Council 0300 1234 051 (Wasteaware) www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/home Opening days are Monday, Thursday, or call 0300 123 4040 Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Summer times 10am-6pm. Winter times 8am-4pm OPEN SPACES AND RECREATION GROUNDS SEMI EMERGENCY HEALTH ISSUES - DIAL 111 Please call the Parish office on 01727 831871 or email [email protected] PROBLEMS WITH FLOODING Not all the open spaces are owned by Hertfordshire County Council Sandridge Parish Council but we are www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/home.aspx or happy to be the first point of contact. call 0300 123 4040

ISSUES WITH FLY TIPPING BUS TIMETABLES AND ISSUES St. Albans District Council on WITH PUBLIC TRANSPORT [email protected] Can be reported via the Intalink website or call 01727 809019 www.intalink.org.uk/#

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 13 The beginning and development of Jersey Farm Woodland Park

Jersey Farm House This is the first in a series of articles outlining the beginning and development of the Woodland Park up to the present.

’s milk rs Corner Dr and M 37 ervice 19 delivery s have done my best to be accurate but the area that is now Jersey Farm Woodland would be very happy to hear from Park remained as farm land. This peaceful I those involved in the campaign to save co-existence between agriculture, the new the Open Space if errors have occurred. My estate, Sandridge village and Marshalswick particular thanks go to Eddie Roberts who was disrupted in November 1988 when provided me with information and the Sandridge Parish Council alerted residents names of early activists. to a proposal to develop the Open Space as The farm that was sold and the land partly a sports facility. developed as housing was known from the The Old Albanians Rugby Club wished to 1930’s as Jersey Farm, hence the name of the buy the land from the District Council and estate. had plans to develop four rugby pitches, Before that it was called Evans Farm and flood lighting, a large pavilion, rifle range appears on a 1776 local map. Dr Corner, and car park. This was not well received by who bought the farm, changed its name local residents. because, although an eminent brain surgeon, he specialised in rearing Jersey cattle. At this Discussions time, Jersey Lane was the access road to the Farm House. Later, ownership passed to an Sandridge Parish Council arranged two insurance company. public meetings to establish local opinion, which was loudly and vigorously against the Objections plans. Following these meetings, many letters were sent to the District Council leading to In 1974, the Secretary of State granted further discussions and scaled down plans provisional outline planning permission for being offered. housing development after an appeal by However, the District Council’s Leisure developers and despite strong local objection. Committee decided to consult Sandridge This led to the production by the County Parish Council and Jersey Farm Residents Council and the District Council of the Association before making a decision. Jersey Farm Development Brief. At this point it is important to mention The Secretary of State had ruled, and the Basil Filmer. He was a former Deputy Mayor Development Brief agreed, that a substantial of St. Albans, lived locally and had been portion of the land be designated as Major involved in the Jersey Farm Development Open Space. In April 1976, about 88 acres Brief. He knew a good deal about the land of land was sold by the Royal London in question and the covenant details Mutual Insurance Society to St. Albans prohibiting any development of the land. Council. The cost was a nominal £500 per He was the founder of Jersey Farm acre. It is stated in the conveyance document Residents Association. By the end of 1989, that this land should remain as Permanent plans for the first real battles to protect the Open Space. Open Space were underway. The following years saw the development of Jersey Farm Estate and, during this time, Councillor Janet Churchard

Next: The Battle for Jersey Farm Woodland Park www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 15 Education news Find out what’s going on at your local schools

Sandringham School Dates for your diary

Mon 18th - Fri 22nd June S part of British Science Week in March, the whole ANNUAL ACTIVITY WEEK school took part in our third major activity (following Year 10 on work experience A from speaking to Tim Peake on the ISS in 2016 and Year 9 in Germany sending a high-altitude balloon into near space in 2017). This Year 8 in France involved every student (and staff) planting at least one tree in th Heartwood Forest to complete the ten-year Woodland Trust Tues 26 June - 6pm project of creating one of the largest indigenous forests in YEAR 7 PROJECT . FAYRE SHOWCASE School Hall This was an amazing week (despite the wet weather), and each student added a personal note with their tree which Fri 29th June - 6.30pm added to the impact of the activity and remind them of the YEAR 11 PROM importance of sustaining our planet for future generations. We were privileged to have been involved in planting the last Tues 3rd July - 6pm trees as part of this project and would like to thank the ART OF CREATION EXHIBITION Woodland Trust for helping with this large-scale project. Art Block The school is about to embark upon the next major phase rd of its development as part of Hertfordshire Council’s Tues 3 July - 7pm Secondary Expansion programme. Work will begin on a full- SUMMER MUSIC CONCERT sized flood-lit 3G pitch at the rear of the fields, shortly SandPit Theatre followed by a new drama block. We will keep you posted on Thurs 5th July - 7pm future developments. IGNITE ~DANCE SHOW The school is open everyday to visitors. Secondary transfer Lower School Dance Show will begin soon, and I would strongly recommend that SandPit Theatre families consider looking around during the school day. Simply contact the school to arrange a visit. Fri 6th July - 10.30am Alan Gray, Headteacher ANNUAL 5 MILE CHARITY RUN Everyone welcome

Tues 10th July - 5.45 - 8.45pm SECONDARY TRANSFER OPEN EVENING

Mon 16th July - 7pm

SPORTS AWARD EVENING SandPit Theatre

th www.sandringham.herts.sch.uk Fri 20 July - 10am -12pm SCHOOL SPORTS DAY Awards and new beginnings It’s been a busy time for Wheatfields Junior School

E are delighted to be able to say over time is also an important part of science that we have just been awarded and the children have had an ideal Wthe Primary Science Quality opportunity to be able to do this. Mark, Silver level. In order to gain this award, we have had to audit science Football provision across the school and to meet a Both our girls and boys have had an wide range of standards in terms of teaching, outstanding season of football. The girls learning and resourcing. There also has to be recently reached the finals of the Wix Cup, a clear plan for further developing the subject a really tough competition, and were runners in the coming weeks and months, and there up. Although disappointed to lose in the is a lot to look forward to. final, they should feel very proud. Both boys Vicky Lopez Bernal, Science leader in the and girls also won their respective leagues school, takes much of the credit for leading and the St. Albans Cup, all of which are this work and for raising the profile of science major achievements. at Wheatfields. We’ll now be using the Lastly, I would like to say well done to all PSQM logo with pride! of our Year 6 children, who will start New Life secondary school in September. The have just taken their end of primary school SATs The children in Year 5 are all very excited tests in English and Maths, and they have about the recent arrival of chicks and gone about these in a very mature way. tadpoles. As part of their science unit, they All we ever ask of the children is that they have been learning about life cycles and are apply themselves and give of their best, and taking a great deal of interest in finding out they have certainly done that. Again, we all about habitats, diet and how best to care for feel very proud of them. the chicks and tadpoles. Observing changes Lyndon Evans Headteacher

17 Wheatfields Infants & Nursery School

HE children have been enjoying the built the shed, but has also built a bug hotel recent warmer weather and making on one of the sides. Tuse of our new ‘Pine Cabin’ which is located next to our school pond. The Awards cabin was kindly donated by Mrs Jane Whitehurst, our previous Headteacher. Having already gained two Eco Schools Green Flag awards, our six Year 2 Nature Sustainable Ambassadors are now working towards the Woodland Trust School Tree At Wheatfields, the children are Awards. encouraged to be outside as much as possible Mr Evans and the children are currently and make the most of our outdoor learning cultivating this year’s crop of giant environments, through forest school, nature sunflowers for this year’s District Schools in club, and our class gardens. The Pine Cabin Bloom Competition organised by St. Albans enables the children to learn outside, despite District Council. the typical British weather! We are very proud that we have won the Mr Evans, our Sustainable Environmental tallest sunflower category for the past three Learning Assistant, not only designed and years and are hoping to win again this year!

18 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Sandridge Neighbourhood Plan An update on progress

HANK-YOU to everyone who has for managing how sites approved by the commented on our initial draft District Council are developed. TNeighbourhood Plan - all the We are using the feedback received from comments received have been considered. residents and the councils to produce a draft We have also met with officers of Neighbourhood Plan for consultation. This St. Albans District Council and is taking longer than we had hoped, but we Hertfordshire County Council to discuss how are working hard to get a draft plan ready our plan will interact with their plans. The this summer. This will be a final opportunity meetings were very positive and we are for residents to comment before the plan goes grateful for the input received from both to the District Council and then to an councils. Inspector to be examined. Opinions Challenging Earlier this year, the District Council consulted on issues and options for its Local Preparing a Neighbourhood Plan has been Plan, and we are monitoring their progress a far more challenging project than anyone closely. As the government has required the thought when we started. We are District Council to plan for building more approaching the end and I would like to new homes, the District Council has also thank everyone who has been involved to asked landowners and developers to identify date for their input. sites that could be used for housing. If you would like to be kept informed on progress or have comments on the draft Feedback Neighbourhood Plan please contact the Parish Council. Most of those sites are in the green belt, Councillor John Hale and we will be watching closely as to which ones get approved. The Sandridge On behalf of the Neighbourhood Plan Neighbourhood Plan should provide a means Task and Finish Group

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 19 Performing Arts SANDRIDGE Workshops for adults PARISH COUNCIL DANCE • DRAMA • MUSIC www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Release your creativity Work towards a performance VISIT OUR WEBSITE St. Mary’s Church Hall, Sherwood Ave AND FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK Fridays 9.30-10.30am (begins 7th Sept) For news and information from the Parish Council Contact Krystal or Nicki on 01727 847344 and the surrounding areas [email protected]

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20 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SandPit Theatre news Cracking events coming up this summer holiday

hunt for a gourmet picnic spot! These THE SAND DRAGON - TUES 24TH JULY, 11AM & 2PM comical characters, along with a capricious Join Edie and her Daddy on their summer Maid with Mop, make entertaining company holiday at the seaside by booking tickets for for all ages. Expect hilarity, eye-watering ‘The Sand Dragon’, and experience the recitation, song and slapstick from magical adventure awaiting them. Immerse Theatrerotto in a salty combination of yourself in the fantastic story told by Paul theatre and haute cuisine. There is a free Batten of Theatrix Arts, with the clever use workshop at 12.30pm on the day (limited of puppets, changing scenery, music and spaces are available so please ring the Box sound effects. After the performance you can Office to book space). meet the puppets and create your very own Adults - £8, Children & Concessions - £6 puppet! Adults - £6, Children & Concessions - £4 COCO (PG) - WED 1ST AUGUST, 10.30AM

In this delightful film, aspiring musician THE JUNGLE BOOK - THURS 26TH JULY, 10.30AM Miguel, confronted with his family’s Based on the novel by Rudyard Kipling, this ancestral ban on music, enters the Land of Walt Disney animation is a beloved classic. the Dead to find his great-great-grandfather, The return of the man-eating tiger Shere a legendary singer. All children’s tickets also Khan to the jungle threatens Mowgli’s include a free juice carton. existence, forcing the abandoned child to Adults - £3, Children & Concessions - £2 overcome his reluctance to leave his wolf Tickets for all events are available to book family. He is joined by Bagheera the panther through the box office on 01727 799565 or and by the carefree bear Balloo, and with online at www.sandpittheatre.co.uk their help he braves the jungle’s many perils. Adults - £3, Children & Concessions - £2 Jonny Downs, Theatre Manager www.sandpittheatre.co.uk THE WALRUS & THE CARPENTER - MON 30TH JULY, 2.30PM

Directed by Samuel Dutton, this musical show is based on Lewis Carroll’s famous poem from ‘Alice Through the Looking Glass’ and is set to accompaniment on the accordion. “The time has come” to accompany the Walrus and the Carpenter, with some eager Oysters, on their

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk 21 22 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk MP profile Bim Afolami, MP for Hitchin and Harpenden

HEN I was elected as your MP in After a busy few days of meeting, media June last year, I could never have and debate, I head back to the constituency. Wimagined how much my life There are a number of really serious issues would change in such a short space of time. affecting Hitchin and Harpenden at the Being a Member of Parliament is like no moment, including concerns about train other job in the world, but its uniqueness services, Luton airport expansion, and makes it so incredible. I am incredibly worries about the Green Belt, but I also find fortunate to represent the wonderful seat of time to do some slightly more relaxing Hitchin and Harpenden, including some of activities! Recently I planted a tree at the Hertfordshire’s most lovely villages. official opening of Primary School, which was a great honour! Balance I also hold surgeries in the constituency, which gives constituents time to meet with A lot of people ask me what it is like to be me personally to discuss their concerns. I an MP, and what I get up to everyday, so I receive a huge number of emails and letters thought I would take this opportunity to give from constituents, but meeting people face to my constituents a taste of what I do in an face gives us a chance to really get to the root average week (although each day is different of the issue. to the next!) It can be tiring and hectic sometimes, and I generally spend Monday, Tuesday and I know every MP says representing their Wednesday working in Parliament, and the constituency is the best job in the world, but rest of my week in the constituency or with I think representing Hitchin and Harpenden my family. Balancing family life can be tricky is a hard job to beat! when you’re away from home so much, but I am very fortunate that my constituency is [email protected] close to London. www.bimafolami.co.uk Debate

I recently led a debate in the House of Commons on Thameslink’s timetable changes that are affecting Harpenden. During this debate, I was able to ask the Rail Minister a number of questions about the details of these changes, and raise personal concerns of my constituents in the House. This is the real purpose of Parliament in my opinion - we are your representatives in Parliament, and we must work for our constituents.

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 23 Projects in the parish PRING has been a busy time of year with lots of multi-tasking. As well as organising our own Summer Celebration, here are Ssome projects that have been taking place in the parish.

New Welcome Ladder Boards everyone to be responsible and look after our parks and open spaces. We have installed two more Welcome Ladderboards in the Jersey Farm Woodland New Information Signs Park - one at the entrance on St. Helier Two new signs have been placed on the Road, and one at the Jersey Lane entrance. multi-use courts at Spencer Meadows. This We now have three in total around the helps to improve the image of the courts and park. They are not only beautiful and has clearer information on how to book welcoming, but they provide a great them. opportunity to advertise upcoming events in The design and colours are coordinated the A4 panels. Keep a lookout for what’s with other signage across the parish. We coming up! have recently also replaced the tennis nets and have two new five aside football goals. New Open Spaces Welcome Boards Please get in touch with the Parish Office or Village Stores if you would like to hire the Three new welcome boards have been courts or have any queries. installed at William Bell, one in Damson Way, and two are ready for St. Leonard’s (these will be installed once the new leisure Trees in Marshalswick facilities are in place). Five new trees have been planted on These are colour co-ordinated with the verges in Sandridge Parish. Although lower Spencer Meadow welcome board, so we than the original amount we would have now have continuity of colour and design liked, the process of getting permission from across the parish. Hertfordshire County Council, scanning the We hope these boards encourage residents verges, and organising the planting has to enjoy the facilities, whilst also reminding finally come together! Continued... The following trees have been planted in player, and an audio induction loop for the these locations; hard of hearing at the Community Centre. • Corner of Ridgeway and Hazelmere It is hoped that these new additions will Road – Acer Campestre benefit regular hirers and also bring the • Chandlers Road on the large verge – Community Centre up-to-date with Malus Floribunda technology. • Corner of Hazelmere and Sherwood Avenue – Betula Pendula New play equipment in the parish • House Lane large verge by Woodcock We are always looking at ways of Hill – Quercus Robur x 2 improving our facilities, and increasing We hope to be able to continue to plant outdoor leisure time for the young people of trees in the parish, and we are hoping to start our parish. We have the following items a volunteer programme to maintain the trees planned for installation this spring/early on our verges. Please refer to the article on summer; volunteering on page 46 for more • New Multiplay in St. Leonard’s (this is information. funded by section 106 monies from the New PA system local garage redevelopment) • Installation of a basketball post with A new PA System has been installed in suitable surface (similar to the one in Jersey Farm Community Centre. We now Harness Way), and an outdoor table tennis have two large mounted speakers, amplifier, table in St. Leonard’s open Space. an iPhone dock, wireless microphone, CD • New wetpour surface under play equipment in Harness Way that is currently subject to flooding in wet weather. • Replacement goal post for Harness Way Open Space

Sustainable St. Albans Week events

Better vision for a better life Sandridge Parish Council hosted three events in partnership with Sustainable • We provide eye examinations St. Albans across the week Saturday 21st - • Delivering exceptional service th and treatment Sunday 29 April. • Large selection of frames We have a separate article on these exciting to suit your budget events by Councillor Harris on page 9. • Swimming pool goggles These are just some of the projects that • Prescription glasses • Contact lenses have kept me busy over the past season! I am • Specialist referrals now looking forward to a busy summer. for cataracts and Life as a Project Officer at Sandridge glaucoma Parish Council is always busy (and fun!).

47 The Quadrant, Marshalswick, Rebecca Pannese Tel: 01727 858 405 [email protected] Project & Amenities Officer

26 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Marshalswick Community Centre Activities and regular hirers Martine MacRae Tel: 07399 403 650 TO BOOK THIS HALL CONTACT E-mail: [email protected]

MONDAY 9.10am - 12.10pm MARSHALSWICK PRE-SCHOOL & NURSERY (2-5 YEARS) (term time only) Nita Patel Tel: 07421 321994 5.30pm - 7.00pm BROWNIES Mrs Pearson Tel: 01727 861158 7.30pm - 9.30pm CARPET BOWLS Les Fielding Tel: 01727 831586

TUESDAY 9.10am - 1.10pm MARSHALSWICK PRE-SCHOOL & NURSERY (2-5 YEARS) (term time only) Nita Patel Tel: 07421 321994

2.00pm - 4.00pm EXTEND (exercise for the over 60s) Mrs M Blackman Tel: 01727 853001 5.00pm - 7.00pm WEIGHTWATCHERS Tel: 0844 507 5051

7.00pm - 10.00pm ST. ALBANS FLOWER CLUB (once a month only) Lesley Marsh Tel: 07932 035033

WEDNESDAY 9.10am - 1.10pm MARSHALSWICK PRE-SCHOOL & NURSERY (2-5 YEARS) (term time only) Nita Patel Tel: 07421 321994 2.30pm - 4.30pm PENNY WATERMAN SCHOOL OF DANCE (Ballet/ballroom) Penny Waterman Tel: 01727 858632 4.30pm - 5.30pm TAI CHI Sally Golding Tel: 01727 837697 7.00pm - 10.00pm ST. ALBANS ART SOCIETY (1st, 3rd, 4th week in month) Edward Tel: 01727 862472

7.00pm - 10.00pm CITY W.I. (2nd week in month) Barbara Harvey Tel: 01727 865631

THURSDAY 9.10am - 1.10pm MARSHALSWICK PRE-SCHOOL & NURSERY (2-5 YEARS) (term time only) Nita Patel Tel: 07421 321994 2.30pm - 3.30pm MEDAU MOVEMENT Mrs R Smith Tel: 01727 864577 6.00pm - 7.00pm RAINBOWS Louise Smellie Tel: 01727 848101 7.30pm - 10.00pm ELIZABETHAN CLUB Mrs S Brooks Tel: 01727 830639 FRIDAY 9.10am - 12.10pm MARSHALSWICK PRE-SCHOOL & NURSERY (2-5 YEARS) (term time only) Nita Patel Tel: 07421 321994

6.00pm - 10.00pm ALBAN LACEMAKERS (2nd week in month) Mrs M Carey Tel: 01582 769235

SATURDAY 9.30am - 12.00noon PENNY WATERMAN SCHOOL OF DANCE (Ballet/disco/jazz) Penny Waterman Tel: 01727 858632

SUNDAY 8.30am - 11.30am SOCATOTS (Soccer play for 1-5 year olds) Lauren Tel: 07815 966099

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 27 Jersey Farm Community Centre Activities and regular hirers Martine MacRae Tel: 07399 403 650 TO BOOK THIS HALL CONTACT E-mail: [email protected]

MONDAY 9.30am - 12.00noon PENNY WATERMAN SCHOOL OF DANCE (Baby/Tots ballet) Penny Waterman Tel: 01727 858632 1.30pm - 3.00pm YOGA June Rowlands Tel: 07940 854535

4.00pm - 7.00pm LEA VALLEY KARATE ACADEMY (4 years and over) Daniel Hollister Tel: 07894 528283

7.30pm - 11.00pm ST. ALBANS BRIDGE CLUB Roger Thornhill Tel: 01582 763560 TUESDAY 10.30am - 3.30pm JERSEY FARM DAY CENTRE Lyn Bolton Tel: 01727 834699 Kathy Green Tel: 01727 839565

4.20pm - 5.40pm SOCATOTS (Soccer play for 1-5 year olds) Lauren Tel: 07815 966099

6.15pm - 7.15pm HERTBEATS EXERCISE CLASS Roger Miller Tel: 07879 466079

8.00pm - 10.00pm THE ST. ALBANS CAMERA CLUB Michael Shaw Tel: 01727 862788 WEDNESDAY 9.30am - 11.00am RIDGEWAY CHURCH TOTS TIME Tricia Campbell Tel: 01727 869703

6.30pm - 8.30pm WEIP SOCIAL Adam Garland Tel: 01582 967960

THURSDAY 10.30am - 12.00noon AWARENESS THROUGH MOVEMENT (50+) Miriam Dobson Tel: 01707 371816

Afternoon AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

5.30pm - 7.00pm BROWNIES Ann Dickinson Tel: 01727 850960

7.30pm - 9.30pm CARPET BOWLS Dorothy Shepherd Tel: 01727 834606

FRIDAY 10.00am - 11.30am HARVESTERS PLAYTIME Tim Dale Tel: 07747 062110

2.30pm - 4.15pm RIDGEWAY CHURCH COMMUNITY CAFE Tricia Campbell Tel: 01727 869703

6.15pm - 7.15pm RIDGEWAY CHURCH KIDS CLUB (school years 1-6) Tricia Campbell Tel: 01727 869703 SATURDAY 10.00am - 11.00am QI KWON DO MARTIAL ARTS (4-12 yrs) Jon Curtis Tel: 07825 505099 SUNDAY 9.00am - 12.30pm SOCATOTS (Soccer play for 1-5 year olds) Lauren Tel: 07815 966099

28 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk 30 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Brian Ollis Sandridge Village Hall Tel: 01727 867417 Activities and regular hirers E-mail: TO BOOK THIS HALL CONTACT [email protected]

MONDAY 9.30am - 3.30pm PATCHWORK & EMBROIDERY (South Room) Tricia Tominey Tel: 07740 264469 1.45pm - 4.00pm W.E.A. DISCUSSION GROUP (current affairs) (North Room) Bill Bond Tel: 01727 851152 4.30pm - 6.00pm MARGUERITA HOARE SCHOOL (Beginners Modern & Tap 6-8 years) Rosalie Ollis Tel: 01727 766430 6.30pm - 7.30pm FOREST YOGA (North Room) Louise Neicho Tel: 07887 988 053; 7.30pm - 8.45pm YOGA Jane Hardy Tel: 07779 297 654

TUESDAY 9.00am - 12.30pm START ART CLASS Sarah Saunders Tel: 01727 848463 9.30am - 3.30pm PATCHWORK & EMBROIDERY (South Room) Tricia Tominey Tel: 07740 264469 10.00am - 12.30pm PATCHWORK & EMBROIDERY (North Room) Kathy Osborne Tel: 07831 439 230 1.00pm - 2.00pm PILATES (PRIVATE) Jenny Beckwith Tel: 07814 412 231 1.00pm - 4.00pm PATCHWORK & QUILTING CLASSES (North Room) Judith Wilson Tel: 01582 832679 2.15pm - 3.15pm YOGA Jenny Beckwith Tel: 07814 412 231 4.30pm - 7.15pm MARGUERITA HOARE SCHOOL (Tap Grades 2-6) Rosalie Ollis Tel: 01727 766430 7.15pm - 9.45pm THE HEARTS BRIDGE CLUB (1st Tuesday in month) Shirley Pinner Tel: 01727 811638 7.30pm - 10.00pm SANDRIDGE W.I. (2nd Tuesday in month) Jenny Roberts Tel: 07834 320101

WEDNESDAY 9.30am - 12.30pm ARTFUL DODGERS ART GROUP 10.00am - 12.30pm THE HEARTS BRIDGE CLUB (North Room) Shirley Pinner Tel: 01727 811638 1.00pm - 4.00pm PATCHWORK & QUILTING CLASSES (North Room) Judith Wilson Tel: 01582 832679 4.30pm - 7.30pm MARGUERITA HOARE SCHOOL (Tap Inter - Advanced 2) Rosalie Ollis Tel: 01727 766430 6.30pm - 7.30pm FOREST YOGA (North Room) Louise Neicho Tel: 07887 988 053 7.00pm - 9.00pm LODGE ALBANUS (South Room) Mrs Ann Jensen Tel: 01462 893569 7.30pm - 9.00pm SANDRIDGE VILLAGE HALL TRUSTEES (1st Wednesday bi-monthly) Brian Ollis Tel: 01727 867417

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 31 THURSDAY 9.30am - 10.30am MORNING PILATES Claire Morris Tel: 07921 678 756 1.30pm - 4.30pm U3A IMPROVERS BRIDGE CLUB (South Room) Glenys Vaughan Tel: 01727 831356 2.00pm - 4.00pm U3A CRAFT GROUP (North Room) Judith Wilson Tel: 01582 832679 4.30pm - 7.00pm MARGUERITA HOARE SCHOOL (Modern & Tap Grade 3) Rosalie Ollis Tel: 01727 766430 7.30pm - 9.30pm PLANT HERITAGE (Herts & Beds) (North Room) Helen Haran Tel: 01727 869437 7.30pm - 9.30pm EVENING PILATES Claire Morris Tel: 07921 678 756 FRIDAY 9.30am - 10.30am MORNING PILATES Claire Morris Tel: 07921 678 756 9.15am - 3.30pm PATCHWORK & EMBROIDERY (South Room) Tricia Tominey Tel: 07740 264 469 12.30pm - 4pm SANDRIDGE SILVER THREADS (Fortnightly) Jacky England Tel: 01727 853218 7.30pm - 10.00pm SANDRIDGE CARPET BOWLS CLUB Janice Sankey Tel: 01727 863243 SATURDAY 9.00am - 1.00pm PATCHWORK & QUILTING CLASSES (South Room) Tricia Tominey Tel: 07740 264 469 SUNDAY 9.00am - 6.00pm MARGUERITA HOARE SCHOOL Rosalie Ollis Tel: 01727 766430 8.00pm - 9.00pm MIXED MARTIAL ARTS CLASS Graeme Burnett Tel: 01727 832250 Sandridge Village Hall Management Committee meets on a Wednesday evening every two months. If you would like to help in the smooth running of the Hall, please contact Brian Ollis on 01727 867417.

EDITORIAL COPY DATE AUTUMN 2018 - Issue 90 For inclusion in the next issue, please ensure copy is submitted before Thursday 16th AUGUST 2018

32 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Local church news Find out what’s going on at your local churches

Marshalswick Baptist Free Church

HIS September, Marshalswick Baptist Free Church will be Tcelebrating its 50th Anniversary in Sherwood Avenue. The church was formed by the coming hear from those with memories or souvenirs together of The Tabernacle Baptist Church of the church over its life, and to welcome in Victoria Street, and a joint you at one of the events. Methodist/Baptist group meeting in We also invite you to join us for: Skyswood School. Bazil Meade Gospel Music Academy Choir Built on land donated by the main builder (featuring guests from the London of Marshalswick, Mr T.F. Nash, the church Community Gospel Choir) th first opened its doors on 7 September 1968 Sunday 1st July - 6pm and has been serving the community ever since. Box of Opera Delights for a Summer’s We will be celebrating this important Evening (by the Felici Opera group) Saturday 14th July - 7.30pm milestone with a weekend of events on 15th- 16th September. We would love to see and [email protected] or 01727 857786 Ridgeway Church

HE sun shone on our ‘Away Day’ We also had weekend in May. On Saturday, we refreshment for the soul when we had two Tenjoyed the beautiful surroundings excellent talks on the Saturday, and one on at All Nations Christian College in Ware, the Sunday morning about what the Bible including a walk and a paddle in the ford for has to say about work. some - very refreshing for the feet! We heard from a prison chaplain how the hope of Jesus can be life changing for those www.ridgewaychurch.net who find themselves at such a low point in life. A fascinating insight into prison life. It was a good time to step back from the busyness of life and spend time as a church family enjoying each other’s company and some excellent food for both the spirit and body, as well as the beauty of God’s creation. Tricia Campbell www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 33 St. Mary’s Church, Marshalswick

ARSLEY, sage, Tickets on sale soon. rosemary and Holiday-at-home 6th - 9th thyme... Peppercorn P August for anyone over 75 in Place, St. Mary’s ‘secret’ our parish who is on their own. garden, has been refreshed with fruit trees, two wildlife-friendly Includes lunch, refreshments, areas and new raised beds activities, entertainment and containing vegetables, flowers coach trip. Please book places and herbs (snip some for your in advance. cooking!). Entrance at far end On the second Sunday of of car park. Look for “OPEN” each month we do things signs. differently. Join us for Make St. Mary’s Count coffee/tea and chat from events put the fun in fund- 9.30am, before our 10am raising. Quiz Evening on Second Sunday Service - a Saturday 7th July at 7pm with simpler, shorter version of our loose Shakespearean theme. usual service. All welcome. Church office: 01727 851544 [email protected] www.marshalswick.org.uk St. Leonard’s Church

E’LL be looking for sunshine on Sunday 24th June when we’ll be Wholding the annual St. Leonard’s Summer Fair in the church grounds. Everyone is welcome to come along from 2pm and enjoy a traditional fair, with home-made refreshments and a range of stalls for all the family to enjoy. Inside the church, the famous Sandridge Knitted Village will be on display. Saturday 21st July and Saturday 15th September - Free Craft Church mornings for children aged 4-11, 10am - 12noon. Friday 5th - Sunday 7th October - Flower Festival ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’. Rev Em Coley & Rev Peter Crumpler www.sandridgechurch.org.uk @StLeonards2016 or like us on Facebook

34 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk In full bloom What’s been going on at Heartwood Forest?

EARTWOOD has woken from its Other exciting events at Heartwood this long winter’s sleep, and spring has summer include ‘Heartwoof ’ on Sunday 3rd H once again treated us to a June 11am - 3pm. This promises to be a fun wonderful display of blossom, bird song and day out with your furry friends, where you bluebells. can sample some canine-themed stalls and The Woodland Trust’s ‘Save Our Bluebell’ activities for you and your pooch. Campaign has had another successful year, and we have slowly started to see bluebells Celebrations returning in places where they were once th trampled and trodden and unable to flower. To celebrate Heartwood’s 10 birthday, th If we all continue to keep to the paths and join us on Saturday 7 July 11am - 4pm at keep dogs on leads in the ancient woods, we this beautiful woodland creation site and will be able to enjoy these magical displays enjoy fun activities with crafts and stalls for for years to come - so thank you to everyone all ages. This year, we will be hosting a who has helped to make this happen. wildlife zone showcasing the wonderful nature that call Heartwood home, a health Trials and wellbeing area where you can try out meditation and yoga classes, and a timber We have also been trialling our new series and woodland craft zone for all things woody. of guided walks, and they are proving to be With plenty going on at Heartwood this very popular with many of the walks, summer, we hope you can join us soon. becoming fully booked. We still have lots Check out the website link below for full planned for this summer, so why not come details and if you have any queries, don’t and discover more about our native hesitate to get in touch. arboretum or learn how to take the perfect wildlife and landscape photos on our [email protected] ‘Through the Lens’ guided walk. For the full www.heartwood.woodlandtrust.org.uk list of walks, dates and times take a look at Louise Neicho the website below.

35 Free WEEK trial INTENSIVE SUMMER available SPLASH COURSES: Costs WEEKS BEGINNING from £88 30th July and 20th August per term The Marlborough Science Academy

36 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Parish Council Precept Where your money goes

HE Parish Council Precept is that and grants, £260,000 is the precept and the part of the Council Tax you pay that balance of £7,000 will be taken from Tgoes to the Parish Council. In reserves, if needed. 2017/18, for every £1 of Council tax you paid, just over 3p went to the Parish Council, Charges and the figure is similar for 2018/19. Most of the charges relate to the The precept is used, along with the income Community Centres, which continue to be raised from other activities such as hiring out well used by many organisations. The hiring the community centres, to fund the Parish fees generated are used to offset the running Council’s activities. More details on the costs. The Council also uses some of the Council’s activities are included in the precept each year to maintain and improve 2017/18 accounts and in articles throughout the centres. In 2018, a sound system has been the year in Neighbourhood News. installed in the Jersey Farm Community Centre and LED lighting will be fitted in the Review Marshalswick Community Centre. The Parish Council also manages seven This year, we have managed to limit the playgrounds, each with multiple items, so increase in the total precept to £12,257, there is always something that is coming to which is less than £2.30 for a Band D the end of its life and needs replacing. property. In order to do this, the Parish Therefore, most years we spend some of Council has again reviewed its spending to the precept on new equipment so as to keep identify where savings can be made, without each playground in good condition for our reducing services provided. younger residents to enjoy. Following that review, the Council is budgeting to spend £324,000 this year; Councillor John Hale £57,000 will be raised from charges, interest Chair, Finance Committee

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 37 Situated at Carpenter’s garden centre & farm shop, The Potting Shed Garden Kitchen & Café offers a unique dining experience for food lovers living in the St. Albans and Hertfordshire area.

Open seven days a week, the Potting Shed offers breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.

Call us today to make a reservation on: 01727 856995 Open 9am- 5pm Mon-Sat & 9.30am- 4.30pm Sun

106 Rd, Sandridge, St Albans, Herts, AL4 9LJ www.pottingshedcafe.com

38 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Want to inspire others to read? Volunteering opportunities for young people in Marshalswick Library

F you’ve been into a Hertfordshire have an outgoing and friendly manner and library over the summer holidays, you’ll good communication skills, check out I have seen a Reading Hack - a young www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/readinghack person who does activities and volunteering and help us make this the best Summer to inspire others to read. Reading Challenge ever!! Opportunity

Across the county, over 300 young volunteers join us every summer to support the children taking part in our annual Summer Reading Challenge; just one of the Reading Hack opportunities available for young people aged 14-24 in your local library. Marshalswick Library is now accepting new volunteers for this role! If you’re interested in promoting reading,

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 39 40 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Probus Club of St. Albans A forum for retired business and professional people

ROBUS is a forum to help retired lunch, normally on the last Thursday of each business and professional people month at Verulam Golf Club in London Pmeet others with similar interests in Road. relaxed surroundings. The Probus Club of But it’s not just about meeting for lunch. St. Albans has an associated Ladies Club We have a full programme of activities: which organises its own meetings and outings, rambles, theatre and opera visits, a lunches. computer forum and an annual holiday. Probus Clubs were first formed in early 1965, and the Probus Club of St. Albans was Events established some 20 years later. Following the In April, a group visited the lawn tennis setting up of the very first Probus Club - in headquarters in Wimbledon; in early May Garden City - the idea quickly ramblers descended on Sandridge to visit the spread, and now Clubs can be found in bluebell woods and the new Heartwood nearly all English-speaking countries and Forest before adjourning to the Green Man most of Europe. The concept that had begun for lunch. Also in April, a bus party went to as informal meetings soon developed into see a performance of Don Giovanni at regular lunches, and later speakers were Milton Keynes, and May is the time of the invited to give an added interest. Club’s annual holiday. This year, a group of Members nearly 50 went to Suffolk. For all these events, as well as two special lunches - summer and We are an active, friendly and thriving Christmas - we are joined by our wives, Club with a membership that hovers around partners and friends. 60. We have members who travel from Tel: 01727 854266 , Harpenden, Redbourn, , (secretary Tony Savage) Park Street and . We meet for www.probusclubofstalbans.co.uk

Probus Club of St. Albans rambling group 42 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Stagecoach Holiday Workshops Give your child the opportunity to make new friends and develop new skills

HILDREN and teenagers can make Summer Holiday Workshop friends, have fun and develop new Sir John Lawes School C skills at a Stagecoach Holiday Mon 23rd - Fri 27th July, 9.30am - 4.30pm Workshop. The workshops are designed for 7- Friday session includes a ‘Showcase’ for 18-year-olds, with some areas offering family and friends at 6pm. We are workshops for youngsters aged 4-6 years old. celebrating Stagecoach’s 30th birthday by No previous dancing, singing or acting presenting ‘30 Musicals for 30 Years’. experience is needed, there are no auditions £50 deposit needed to secure the and they are available to non-Stagecoach place. Age range is 7-16 yrs. students. Stagecoach has years of experience in Early Stages Workshop delivering high quality, fun performing arts Mon 23rd - Thurs 26th July, 10am - 1pm lessons to children and teenagers. Their ‘Showcase’ for parents at 12.30pm on professional teachers work with each student to Thursday and the theme is ‘COLOURS’. improve their confidence in all three disciplines. £25 deposit needed to secure the place. As soon as they arrive, your child will start Age range is 4-6 yrs. making friends, having fun and learning some great new skills! By the end of the workshop, 01525 717567 or 07793 206846 your child will be more confident, more socially aware and fitter. [email protected]

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 43 FREE Pensioners’ Bus on Wednesdays Sponsored by Sandridge Parish Council

ROUTE 247 (PPH COACH) - Wednesdays mornings ROUTE 248 (PPH COACH) - Wednesdays mornings OUTWARD JOURNEY - from Sandridge village OUTWARD JOURNEY - from The Quadrant

DEPART DEPART Opposite St. Leonard’s Church 09.53 Hughenden Road (near the dry cleaners) 10.30 Langley Grove / High Street 09.55 The Ridgeway / Kingshill Avenue 10.40 Langley Grove / Shotfield Close 09.58 The Ridgeway / outside 10.42 High Street / Rose and Crown PH 10.00 The Ridgeway / Windmill Avenue 10.44 St. Albans Road / St. Helier Road 10.03 The Ridgeway / Barnfield Road 10.46 Sandringham Crescent / Belsize Close 10.05 The Quadrant (outside the library) 10.48

Sandringham Crescent / Blackberry Jack PH 10.07 ARRIVE St. Peter’s Street 11.00 ARRIVE St. Peter’s Street 10.20 RETURN JOURNEY DEPART St. Peter’s Street (outside Tesco Store) 12.45 RETURN JOURNEY DEPART Return journeys retrace outward routes stopping at The St. Peter’s Street (outside Tesco Store) 12.00 Ridgeway / Windmill Avenue, The Ridgeway / Barnfield Road and outside Marshalswick Library at The Quadrant

44 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk Serving the community Weekly clubs and groups at Marshalswick Community Centre

ERUSALEM’ rings out some option for practical folk who want to see Wednesday evenings at the tangible results from their work. ‘J Marshalswick Community Centre Fitness is also a strong theme. Carpet bowls when the WI is in full voice. is our Monday evening sport, while gentle The Elizabethan Club, another exercise for the over 60s is available at organisation for ladies and a member of the ‘Extend’ (Tuesdays) and ‘Medau Movement’ National Association of Women’s Clubs, (Thursdays). meets there every week with speakers and The marshal art Tai Chi (Wednesday and many other activities. Sunday) can help you to improve your ‘strength, flexibility and balance’, and, if you Youngsters feel the need to lose weight, Weightwatchers can surely help. Weekdays usually start with the Pre-School Play Group, and toddlers are also Survey catered for at ‘Socatots’ on Saturday. Penny Waterman’s School of Dance is ideal for Councillor John Foster and Martine older children eager to dance. MacRae, the Community Centres Manager, Rainbows is for girls aged 5 to 7 yrs, have been carrying out a survey of our followed by Brownies - both of which have Community Centre users to seek their views waiting lists, so book early. on the service we provide. If there are any St. Albans Art Society is new to our issues you wish to raise, please contact them. Community Centre, but this 120-year-old Their contact details can be found on page Art Society is one of the oldest clubs in 12. St. Albans. A full list of activities that take place at The Flower Club offers the opportunity to Marshalswick Community Centre can be found on see exhibits by visiting demonstrators, plus page 27. occasional workshops for participants to develop their skills. Lace making is another Councillor Neil Harris

www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 45 Volunteering in the parish Would you like to join a regular local volunteering programme?

ANDRIDGE Parish Council would programme, have skills and knowledge that like to start a volunteering you can share, or would like to learn a new S programme, that will run regularly skill, please contact Rebecca at the Parish (probably monthly) and focus on improving Office on 01727 831871, or email our green spaces. [email protected]

Maintenance

We currently have task force days through the autumn and winter, particularly on the Woodland Park. We plan to continue these and, in addition, include some maintenance on trees, pond clearance, and general improvement on our Open Spaces (and hopefully rewarded with some delicious refreshments). If you would like to be part of a volunteer

46 SUMMER 2018 www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk www.sandridge-pc.gov.uk SUMMER 2018 47 Published by Local Publishing Ltd. Tel 01727 757475 www.localpublishing.co.uk [email protected]