Issue 23

September 2014

In this edition of The Sticks

Exclusive interview with Chas Hodges of Chas & Dave fame Win tickets to see Viva La Drag Our new Hero Cheese of the Month BBC Radio 2’s Janey Lee Grace’s Platinum Awards We review The Swan at Salford We road test the Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV And much more Plus pages of events listings across Herts, Beds & Bucks

- 1 - 22 Welcome to the September edition of The Sticks Magazine!

The most talked about magazine in Herts, Beds & Bucks

With over 16,000 readers a month

In this issue: Page Exclusive interview with Chas Hodges 44 Curwens Column 77 Win tickets to see Viva La Drag 88 Better and Better, Higher and Higher 99 Art Column 1111 Reflections on Spiritual Developmentt 1212 Car Test – Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV 1515 Janey Lee Grace‘s Platinum Awards 1616 The Swan at Salford 1818 Big Barn Food Column 2222 Hero Cheese of the Month 2323 Listings – Herts, Beds & Bucks 2424

Contributors: Janey Lee Grace, Terry Sullivan Donna Obstfeld, Andrew Merritt-Morling, Julie Sale, Sharon Struckman See you in October!

Editor & Sales: Terry Sullivan

Tel: 07756 274444 Email: [email protected]

www.the-sticks.co.uk

Follow us on twitter @thesticks9 www.facebook.com/sticksmag

Listen to The Sticks Radio Show at 10am on Mondays on Secklow Sounds www.secklowsounds.org

33 Exclusive interview with Chas Hodges

Chas Hodges is a musician and singer, probably best known for being one half, and lead vocalist, of the musical duo Chas & Dave. He currently lives just outside Stevenage in Hertfordshire.

What did you do before joining up with Dave as Chas and Dave? They recently did a nice documentary on BBC 4 where they went all through my career, right through from the early days when I was with Mike Berry and the Outlaws and touring as Jerry Lee Lewis’s bass player, and Gene Vincent. Then I joined Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers, toured with the Beatles, then joined Albert Lee’s band “Heads, Hands and Feet” - so quite a bit! I knew Dave for about 8-9 years before we decided to get together and all that time I was doing all that. I did a show just on my own recently at the Borderline in London, it was a show with all the acts that recorded with producer Joe Meek that included playing with Cliff Bennett. I also go gigging as Chas and his band.

You must have some great stories about Jerry Lee Lewis etc? I wrote my autobiography called “All About Us” and the first part is Chas before Dave - all the stuff I had done up until me and Dave got together, the other one is the Chas and Dave story. I really enjoyed writing that and you can read read all the tales in there.

You also played in a band called the Rockers along side Roy Wood, Phil Lynott and John Coghlan? Yes that’s right and I have become a friend of Roy’s, I think I first met him when I was with Cliff Bennett and he was with the Move. Roy told me the story of their song Flowers In The Rain (the first record ever played on Radio One) - it was during Harold Wilson’s government and the tax laws and he gave the royalties away so he makes nothing out of that song.

Is it true you learnt to play the piano by watching Jerry Lee Lewis? Yes I had started to learn before that. I was a bass player and had started to learn on me mum’s piano by watching her, I learnt a couple of bits and I made a start on the piano and when I was on tour with Jerry Lee just watching him everynight and then I used to try it out as soon as the gig had finished - I used to jump on the piano and think that’s how he does that bit. So I always say he taught me the piano which he did but he did not know he was - it was just me watching him, what a great teacher! A lot of people don’t realise how good a piano player he is.

Are you still a Spurs fan? Yes I was born a Spurs fan as I was born almost outside the ground and in those days you suported the team that was local to you.

You’re back on the road again after deciding to retire from touring together? No I never decided to retire, I am never going to retire, feel like I am going to live forever. Dave packed up when his dear wife died in 2009 but I carried on, as Chas and His Band and I still do the odd show, in fact I did one last Saturday for Charity in an old place my mum used to play in Edmonton, as time’s gone on Dave has felt a bit easier and he has come back to do a few gigs, it all works well together.

44 You did a charity single for the Premier League Darts recently? That’s right, Barry Hearn who we met years ago when we did “Snooker Loopy”. He rung me up and said “let’s have a meeting somewhere I’ve got an idea. I now manage all these darts players” and to cut a long story short I wrote this song “I Got My Ticket for the Darts” - it done alright and the royalties are for the children’s hospice in Woodford, had some fun doing that.

Which is your, passion the darts or the snooker? Neither, I just like the music we did for it!

There is an old myth going round that you were involved in the Fools and Horses theme tune, is it true? There is truth in it; John Sullivan originally wanted us to do the music for it, but at the time we were in Australia. “Ain’t No Pleasing You” was number one and just everything was happening, but in those days, unlike today where you through the internet could record it anywhere, in those days the communication was not so easy. Basically, we said we would do it if we could write it but it was already written so that’s the main reason we did not do it. It turned out to be John himself singing on it. We met John later on and he became a good friend and we actually did a version that was played on Capital Gold and he rung me up afterwards and said “that’s the way is should had been done”. On a Fools and Horses episode “The Jolly Boys Outing” John wanted to use our song Margate so we took Del Boy and Rodney in to the studio and recorded a special version which they used on the show.

You have recently recorded a solo album? Yes, I went to the Western Star studios in Bristol, it features tracks from all the people I have worked with over the years, it is titled “Together We Made Music” it has songs in tribute to Cliff Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis and Gene Vincent.

How would you describe your musical style? Well it is honest, unlike early in my career when I was singing in an American accent and I changed and that was the beginning of the “Rockney” style and I write songs about things I knew and when I got together with Dave I said to him, I have an idea about writing songs, so it is honest, good entertainment and we pride ourselves on being good musicians so it can last forever which it has. We have never been fashionable or unfashionable we have never gone with the trends. I do have affection for the music hall as mum played the piano and my uncle Alf singing all Harry Champion songs and that was one of the things me and Dave had in common when I first met him.

Away from the music business what do you do for a hobby? I have an allotment and have written a book about keeping one called “Chas and His Rock and Roll Allotment”

See Chas and Dave on tour at

Watford Colosseum on Saturday 13 September Bedford Corn Exchange on Thursday 16 October Aylesbury Waterside on Thursday 20 November

www.chasndave.net

55 - 6 - DOES DIVORCE ALWAYS MEAN ATTENDING COURT?

Family breakdown is unfortunately a common occurrence. There is no way of completely eliminating any stress or cost from the process. However, it is possible to deal with any issues in an amicable and cost-effective way without attending any court hearings.

What are the options ?

To obtain a divorce, there has to be an order of the court (Decree Absolute) made at some point. However, this can be a paperwork exercise with no-one having to attend any actual court hearings.

To resolve any issues regarding children and finances, there are plenty of alternatives to ending up in court:-

(1) Mediation You and your ex-spouse meet with a specially qualified Family Mediator who helps you find a constructive way in which to talk through the issues, and try and find an agreed solution. There can be as many meetings as needed, but usually you would expect 3 or 4.

(2) Collaborative Approach You and your ex-spouse each instruct a specialist Collaborative Lawyer and everything is discussed at round table meetings. Instead of lengthy letters between solicitors, minutes of the meetings are agreed and circulated, and if there are any urgent matters, the lawyers would usually try and resolve them quickly by telephone.

You can have as many round table meetings as you want, but you would usually expect a minimum of three. The Lawyers will bring in other experts if needed – such as Financial Neutrals oror Family Consultants – to assist with financial advice or emotional support respectively.

(3) Arbitration You and your ex-spouse jointly instruct an experienced and specially trained Family Arbitrator who acts as a private judge - giving a decision on the particular issue you have raised with them. The details of what evidence you each provide and how the decision will be made are agreed in advance.

Are these Alternatives Binding on us ?

Any agreement you reach within Mediation, the Collaborative Approach, or through Arbitration can be put into formal terms to become a legally binding court order on you both. Again, this does not require anyone attending a court hearing, but simply the papers being approved and sealed by a family Judge.

It is important to find the right approach for you and your ex-spouse. There is lots of useful information at www.resolution.org.uk (the national body of family lawyers and other professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes)

If you would like more specific information on divorce or the alternative approaches suggested, please contact: [email protected]

Curwens have offices in Royston, Hoddesdon and Enfield.

77 Win a pair of tickets to see VIVA LA DRAG! With special guest Sam Buttery of BBC1’s The Voice

We've teamed up with the producers of brand-new stage show Viva la Drag! to give a lucky reader/listener the chance of winning a pair of tickets to see the spectacular production at the Grove Theatre Dunstable, on Saturday 18 October~ 8pm..

Directed by Kylie Minogue’s creative director, featuring songs especially composed by Boy George, starring Sam Buttery from TV’s The Voice, the latest hit show from London’s West End – Viva la Drag! – is coming to town.

If you’re ready to party like you’ve never partied before, Viva la Drag! comes fresh from a critically-acclaimed West End run. It’s the ultimate girls’ night out. . . with added extras!

The outrageous party night stage show to die for packs in more chart toppers than any other. Glee-style mash-ups blend classic hits with current No1s: Single Ladies, Stop in the Name of Love, Car Wash, Rolling in the Deep, Survivor, We are Family, songs by the Andrew Sisters and scores more.

Starring sweet harmonies, wondrous costumes and cutting-edge variety – including exquisitely-ripped male eye-candy – the famous dragtacular boasts real musical pedigree: directed by Kylie Minogue’s creative director; songs especially composed by Boy George; musical direction from No1 hit songwriter for the Sugarbabes, Emma Bunton and Kylie; vocals by arranger to Girls Aloud and Danni Minogue, costume design by Kylie’s famed world tours team.

Viva la Drag! charts the rise from rags to the queens of drag of an all-male/female close harmony group. Their razor-tongued manager navigates band splits and solo hits, against a backdrop of glitz, hits, fun and kitsch in the show of the year. Over-16s advised.

To win tickets please answer this simple question: Viva la Drag is coming to which local theatre? The first entry drawn will win a pair of tickets to the show.

Send your answer by email with your name, address, email address and daytime phone number to: [email protected] Closing date: Noon Wednesday 15thth October

The prize will go to the first entry drawn on 15th October. There is no cash alternative. Usual your publication rules apply. Editor's decision is final.

To buy tickets contact: The Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Dunstable LU5 4GP Tickets: £21.50 Concessions £19.50 Box office: 01582 60 20 80 grovetheatre.co.uk easytheatres.com Facebook.com/VivaLaDrag Twitter.com/VivaLaDrag

88 Better and Better, Higher and Higher As business owners, we should always be striving to improve our business; as individuals, we should always be striving to improve ourselves. The number of self help books and business improvement books being sold not only in the UK, but across the world, continues to sky rocket and all in the interest of making us, our children or our businesses better.

So why is self improvement so important? What is it that drives people to perform better, look better or feel better?

If I had the answer to that question, then I could probably also be selling books – but I don’t, so here I focus on employees and their needs for self improvement and career progression.

Employees need and want to feel valued, no matter what level of job they perform or where they are in their career. A lot of employees are also fickle, so treat them badly and the best are the first to jump ship, as they find alternative jobs more easily. However, treat them well and they will keep on giving. So how do you treat staff well? Pay them; recognise their contribution, their value and their career and personal aspirations?

Going back to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, once people are getting the basic pay they need to feel they are being paid what they are worth, other needs will kick in. Where the office is based, whether there is travel involved, how much work life balance can be achieved, the social life, the office environment, parking spaces, company car, healthcare, green credentials, career development opportunities and so on.

As an employee, it is worth thinking about where you are on your hierarchy of needs. What you want from an employer, what you need from an employer and what would make you chose between two identical jobs with equal pay.

As appraisal season approaches, as many businesses begin to think about budgets for next year, as an employee, you need to take a step back and evaluate what help you need to feel better and better within yourself and move higher and higher within your career.

DOHR is an HR practice working with the business, education and charity sectors to “make the workplace a better place to be”. 01923 504100 www.dohr.co.uk [email protected]

99 1010 PS ARTS AND SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE WILL BE HOSTING 17 TALENTED ARTISTS FOR THIS YEARS HERTS VISUAL ARTS OPEN STUDIOS

Herts Visual Arts open studios start on 6 September until the 28 of September this year. This annual art extravaganza encompasses the whole of Hertfordshire which becomes a gallery! 154 artists exhibiting in 94 unique exhibitions! Artists from the width and breathe of our beautiful county open up their home, studios and art galleries are bulging at the seams with all their talent. PS Arts gallery is no exception. This year, they have 17 artists exhibiting under theirir roof; from Ceramics, jewellery, sculptures, photography, textiles to amazing oils, acrylics and watercolour paintings; it’s a magnificent display of vibrant colour and talent. For nature-lovers enjoy Jane Sleator’s perfect ceramic pieces which are thrown on the wheel and then decorated with wood bark designs that resonate and work well for modern and traditional interiors. Michael Cull’s oil and acrylic figurative and amazing abstract work are definitely not to be missed. If you love animals, Sue Patient working in oils, acrylic and graphite pencil cleverly brings out the personality and soft textural characteristics of her subjects: she specialises in animal portraits or discovers the unique work of Jenny Leslie, a textile artist that uses nature to create her fabulous scarves and other textile items. As part of open studios, Linda Lipinski, artist and Sculptor will be exhibiting in Southern Hemisphere exhibition centre with her fantastically inspired solo African art exhibition entitled; “Khanya” bringing light to the Southern Hemisphere. This exhibition show cases her amazing talent as a Sculptor as well as her artist skills. During Open studios a number of the artists will be demonstrating their craft, so why not come over and try your hand at pottery, making silver charms, painting or sculpture. Just go to PS Arts website (www.psarts.co.uk) for more detail.

Make PS Arts and Southern Hemispheres exhibition Centre one of your “art” destination while planning your route around Hertfordshire. The art gallery has a delightful vintage tearoom where you can enjoy a cup of tea and cake or relax in our beautiful up-cycled art garden. All you need to create your own self-guided tour – or series of trips with friends or family – is the Herts Open Studios brochure containing venues and opening times. Find this at main libraries, tourist information centres and local galleries or view online. www.hvaf.org.uk/Open-Studios Entry to all exhibitions is free. If you like something you see, why not spoil yourself or a friend and make a purchase - or commission a special piece direct from the artist.

Contact Sharon Struckman, PS Arts gallery owner for more details on 079 29 23 06 23 or email her on [email protected]

1111 Reflections on Spiritual Development by Julie Sale Psychotherapist and Co-Director of Local Counselling Centre

My friend dropped me an email yesterday asking ‘What’s with all the spirituality stuff?’ She was responding to my social media promotion of Local Counselling Centre’s upcoming event ‘The Psychology of Spiritual Development’. She may well be thinking that this is another example of my famous ‘deep and meaningful streak’.

Although I can get happily absorbed in girly gossip talk of which brand of chocolate we like best, the superficial world of fashion or the predictable silliness of a romantic comedy, I have always spent a lot of my thinking time wondering about the bigger questions of life …. what our purpose is, what happens after death, how can we be at peace with ourselves and with others? These questions come to most of us at some point in our lives, maybe as part of a life-long examination of existential ideas, or at a midpoint in life when the career, house and car we have been working for suddenly seem meaningless, or even as a fleeting thought between washing the breakfast dishes and doing the school run.

Although very often linked to religion, spirituality for me goes beyond the formal observance of religious faith. Spirituality is ‘that which relates to or affects the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things’ so, for me, spiritual development is the engagement in activities that stir my soul and bring my mind and body into closer rapport with one another. Although Green and Blacks plain chocolate, a boutique dress and an A lister film can lift my spirits temporarily, they can’t sustain me long term or on their own. Finding meaning and purpose beyond the everydayness of every day provides that sustenance.

In the 1940’s Abraham Maslow proposed that humans have a ‘hierarchy of needs’. Represented as a pyramid, starting at the base with our physiological needs of breathing, food, water and sleep, the pyramid works up through the need for physical and financial security to love and belonging and self esteem. At the top of Maslow’s hierarchy is what he terms ‘self actualisation’, by which he meant the realisation of our full human potential. Maslow believed that we had to have all of the lower levels of need met and understood before we could self actualise. In the 1970’s Gregory Bateson, anthropologist and social scientist, also placed spirituality at the top of his ‘Logical Levels of Thinking’, in a similar model to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Bateson, however, emphasised the strong and pervasive influence of the higher levels of thinking on the lower levels. Clearly, in our culture, focusing on spiritual development exclusively is not likely to help us to pay the bills, but having an awareness of the importance of spiritual development may help us to maintain the energy to work or even find that job that meets some of our soul needs as well as the mortgage payments.

So I am really looking forward to the 23rdrd September when Local Counselling Centre presents a full day of short lectures on the subject of The Spirituality of Psychological Development – a day to feed the mind and soul (and stomach as lunch is included!).

LCC would like to extend the discount code LCC2014 to all Sticks readers and listeners giving a £40 saving on the ticket price of our lecture day The Psychology of Spiritual Development being held at The Hitchin Priory on 23rdrd September. For more details and booking go to www.localcounsellingcentre.co.uk/events or phone Kathy Saunders on 01462 674671.

1212 Chris Barber, Georgie Fame and John Taylor to headline

Herts Jazz is pleased to announce the line-up for the 2014 Herts Jazz Festival taking place on 12-14 September at the Hawthorne Theatre, Welwyn Garden City.

The three headliners will be the Big Chris Barber Band, the John Taylor Quartet and Georgie Fame with the Alan Skidmore Quartet. There are plenty of other big names from British jazz on the programme including Ben Castle, Art Themen, Jean Toussaint, Orphy Robinson & Anthony Kerr, Clark Tracey, James Pearson, JJ Wheeler and more.

This will be the fourth Herts Jazz Festival and will have a similar format to last year’s which was so popular, with free of charge sessions in the foyer during the session intervals and after hours.

Festival Director, Clark Tracey said, “We are proud to have established the Herts Jazz Festival as part of the British jazz calendar. I think we’ve got something for every jazz- lover over the weekend, from the legend that is Chris Barber (who was born in Welwyn Garden City) to up and coming new star JJ Wheeler.”

£95 (£85 Herts Jazz members, £30 students)

Tickets are on sale via the Festival website – www.hertsjazzfestival.co.uk and at the Hawthorne Theatre box office (01707 357117).

For more information about the Festival go to www.hertsjazzfestival.co.uk..

Herts Jazz Festival 12-14 September Programme

Friday

8.30-11.00 The Big Chris Barber Band, 11.00-12.30 Brian Dee Trio

Saturday

11.30–12.30 James Pearson Trio – A history of jazz piano, 1.00-2.00 Art Themen Quartet 2.00-3.00 Nigel Price solo, 3.15-4.30 Ben Castle Quartet, 5.00-6.15 Jean Toussaint's Blakey Tribute, 6.15-7.30 Michael De Souza duo, 7.45-10.15 John Taylor Quartet 10.30-12.00 Leon Greening Trio

Sunday

11.30-12.30 Herts Youth Jazz Ensemble, 1.00-2.00 Clark Tracey Quintet, 2.00-3.00 Mike Gorman solo, 3.15-4.30 JJ Wheeler Quintet, 5.00-6.15 Orphy Robinson/Anthony Kerr, 6.15-7.30 Alan Barnes/Dave Newton, 7.45-10.15 Georgie Fame + Alan Skidmore Quartet

1313 1414 Road Test - Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV By Andrew Merritt -Morling

Less than £15k is enough to secure you Ford’s new EcoSport SUV

Ford’s Fiesta-based EcoSport SUV is now available to buy, with prices starting from £14,995. The EcoSport will complete what Ford describes as an unrivalled small car line-up as it sits alongside the Fiesta and B- Max MPV. The EcoSport is described by the company as rugged, practical and agile.

The EcoSport joins the UK Ford range in anticipation of the company’s projection that sales of SUV’s will increase by more than a fifth (22%) by 2018. It hopes to take advantage and believes that the rate of smaller SUV’s, the sector in which the EcoSport sits, will grow even faster: by a staggering 90%.

The EcoSport has been developed entirely in Latin America and will be the company’s first global SUV. It will replace a model that has been sold in the region since 2003.

Under the bonnet will be a choice of either a 1.0-litre 124bhp petrol unit, a larger capacity but smaller output 111bhp 1.5-litre petrol unit or a 89bhp 1.5-litre diesel unit. The smaller capacity 1.0-litre unit is of particular interest since output from the three-times winner of the International Engine of the Year award is equivalent to the performance achieved by a traditional 1.6-litre engine. However, it emits just 125g/km of CO22 and returns up to 53.3mpg on the combined cycle. The 1.5-litre petrol unit produces 149g/km of CO 22 and achieves up to 44.8mpg, whilst the diesel emits 120g/km of CO22 and returns up to 61.4mpg.

If truth be told, to the eyes of first4auto, the styling is ungainly, but we readily accept that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Its styling is almost certain to divide opinion with its short bonnet, steeply raked windscreen pillars and a face that is dominated by a very obvious, chrome-bedecked five-piece grille. At the other end, a full-size spare wheel is mounted on the SUV tailgate door to emphasise its SUV credentials. This also allows the boot to offer a practical 375-litre capacity with the rear seats in place. If you wish to take your EcoSport swimming, it will be able to wade to a depth of 550mm.

The EcoSport is one of the first vehicles introduced by the European arm of the company to be fitted with the Ford SYNC infotainment system with AppLink. This system allows its driver to utilise voice-control smartphone apps, including the well-known music selector, Spotify. www.first4auto.com www.facebook.com/first4auto Twitter: @first4auto

1515 2014 PLATINUM AWARDS

For the Best of the Best in Natural Beauty, Health, and Wellbeing.

Janey Lee Grace, No 1 best-selling Natural health Author and Natural Living expert presents the 2014 PLATINUM AWARDS for the Natural Health and Beauty World. Janey herself is votedd Number One Personality in the Natural Beauty Yearbook 2013 / 2014 Janey, her panel of Experts, testers, and consumers have scrutinised hundreds of products to arrive at a definitive list of the Best of the Best. The ‘JANEY LOVES’ 2014 PLATINUM AWARDS will be published in full at www.imperfectlynatural.com

Skincare and Beauty Janey Lee Grace reminds us that ‘Our skin is the body’s largest organ – what we put on our skin goes within’ Tiny companies jostle alongside multi-nationals to compete for the prestigious awards. The coveted Best Natural Cleanser award went to a small company – Pure Lakes Skincare for their Rosehip Soapfree cleanser. The Best Anti-ageing Facial product winner is Synergy Skinfood for the luxurious Seven Serum Skinfood – joint winners were Tiana Fair Trade Organics for the Rose Fresh Coconut TLC Best night cream went to B2 Beauty for the SKN-RG Restructure Night Cream Two of the biggest established companies Green People and Weleda both won awards again; Green People won the Best New Summer Product with the Gradual Tan Moisturiser. The coveted Best Conditioner award went to Weleda for the Oat Replenishing Conditioner. Inlight whose founder is the skincare guru Dr Mariano Spiezia won for the second year running with their Organic Firm and Tone oil – brilliant for cellulite!

Make-up and Hair Natorigin stormed the make-up categories yet again winning the Best Make-up foundation and Best Mascara. Sante won for the first time with the gorgeous natural Coral Pink lipstick. PHB Ethical Beauty won the Best Natural Lipgloss Conscious Skincare won for the Best Eye Make-up Remover. The Best Natural Shampoo went to Essential Care for the first ever certified organic shampoo and Tabitha James Kraan won the Best Specialist Hair Product with the Organic Dry Shampoo for fair hair.

Supplements Supplements were given an accolade too with Optibac winning Best Probiotic Supplement and Viridian Nutrition won the award for Best Beauty from Within award with their Organic Ultmate Beauty Collection. Well established companies like Sun Chlorella won Best Wholefood Supplement and the Best Superfood went to Live Wheatgrass (innovative frozen wheatgrass shots delivered to your door) The unbeatable Cherryactive picked up the Best Health Drink for the second year running with the Cherryactive Concentrate. Hippocrates said ‘Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food’ and there were also winners in the Healthy Food and drink categories including Seed and Bean (great organic chocolate) Artisan Bread and Steenbergs Organics

Janey Lee Grace says ‘The average home is more polluted than a busy street – make natural choices! To that end Chuckling Goat won for the Probiotic Multi Surface cleaner, Allergy Cosmos, Water for Health, Naturally Structured Water and UK Thermomix were all given accolades. The Healthy Office Innovation went to Backapp for a brilliant Adjustable Desk. Babycare companies were given recognition too such as Mummalove Organics, Babycup and Bickiepegs and Neuners and Natural Birthing Company were joint winners for the Best New Mum’s Product

1616 September is National Organic Month

It’s hard to imagine that when I wrote my first book the Amazon number one best seller ‘Imperfectly Natural Woman’ nearly ten years ago, there were only a few natural skincare companies, only three companies offering natural and organic make-up, and only one or two companies offering natural and eco cleaning and laundry products.

Organic food was available but not always affordable and still seen as rather elite. Thankfully now the choice in organics is massive and the quality of the new products seems to be getting better and better. Why is there such increased interest? People are starting to ditch the ‘pill for every ill’ mentality and are genuinely interested in taking more responsibility for their own health and wellbeing. There’s a definite increase in awareness of ecology and sustainability and organic farming supports these principles. With food, the vegan society reports a burgeoning interest in the vegan lifestyle and the Vegfest festival saw an almost 45 per cent increase in footfall with over seven thousand visitors.

On the beauty side, a recent Mintel report claimed that the rise in spending in organic skincare and beauty products was over 40 per cent in two years and it really seems that despite an economic down-turn people are interested in health and sustainability, but they don’t want to compromise on taste and quality in food, and efficacy and ‘luxury’ in skincare, beauty and personal care products.

The old adage is true your skin is your bodies largest organ and ‘What you put on your skin goes within’; scientists say at least 60 per cent. If you find that hard to believe then consider how hormone replacement therapy cream works, one ten pence sized blob is another to completely change a woman’s hormonal picture! They do say, ‘Don’t putt anything on your skin that you can’t eat’. That’s not as hard as it may sound when you can opt for raw extra virgin coconut oil moisturisers for example. You can also savee money by making your own DIY skincare recipes and go old style with the cleaning, ditch the chemicals, use kitchen cupboard ingredients and remember the one forgotten cleaning aid elbow grease is organic!

Beware the companies who have high-jacked the word organic though, bear in mind that while organic food has high standards its possible for a beauty product to be misleading; a well-meaning friend once proudly offered me a bottle of Organic Aloe Vera shampoo, saying ‘I know you like organic products’, it contained only one per cent of organic aloe vera alongside a whole host of potentially toxic chemicals.

So always look for the certification symbols and check the ingredients on skincare and beauty products as closely as you would when checking for additives and GMO in your food products. If you want to ‘think global act local’ check out organic producers at the local Herts farmers markets, make sure you frequent the independent health stores and check out some of my fave Herts based companies, see my recent Janey Loves Awards for more at www.janeyleegrace.com

For news and events on Organic Month see www.soilassociation.org

1717 Restaurant Review - The Swan at Salford

The Sticks first visited The Swan at Salford back in March 2012; we thought we would make a return visit to see if the food and service were as good as before.

The Swan Salford is an attractive Edwardian pub in a lovely village setting, 10 minutes from central Milton Keynes and just 1 mile from junction 13 of the M1. It’s perfect for a drink after work and as somewhere to meet, eat and drink with friends. The Swan combines top quality pub food with modern brasserie dishes with a large a la carte menu, a specials board and themed nights (Wednesday night, the night we visited is Aubrey Allen steak night.)

To start with I chose from the specials board - fresh Crispy Cornish Squid, Pickled Samphire with Saffron Aioli which was tender and not overcooked or rubbery; my colleague selected from the A la carte menu - Brixham Crab & Whipped Avocado on Toast with Granny Smith Salsa – a very generous portion of crab combined with the salsa and avocado to give a light, full flavoured dish.

For mains we had dishes from the main menu - Sticky Rack of Dandy Beef Ribs, Cajun Potato Wedges, Corn on the Cob & Slaw, Bourbon Ketchup and Grill Garnish of Roast Field Mushrooms, Garlic & Thyme Plum Tomatoes & Beer-battered Onion Rings (this is definitely not for the faint-hearted) - a large portion of tender tasty beef that fell off the bone with great sides; and Cornish Lamb Cutlets, Apricot Cous Cous, Baby Aubergine, Garlic & Mint Yoghurt – the lamb was just done with the hint of pink as

1818 requested and with the exquisite flavour that you only get from fresh lamb. To accompany both dishes we had a wonderful False Bay Sauvignon Blanc.

For desert we had Valrohona Chocolate & Cherry Pannacotta with Honeycomb - wow what a wonderful dessert chocolatey but not too rich; and Warm Peach Melba Tart, Toasted Almonds & Raspberry Sauce – a juicy half peach in a light shortcrust pastry surrounded by golden sponge.

To round off we had 2 lattes with smarties - a great way to end a meal!

With the skills and flair of Head Chef Mark Austin and under the direction of General Manager Lee Hall I was hoping the food and the service was going to be as good as last time but in fact it was better, which I did not think possible. As always the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. This is a must visit restaurant whether for business or pleasure.

Swan 2 Wavendon Road, Salford MK17 8BD Tel: 01908 281008 www.swansalford.co.uk

1919 2020 2121 Herbs Week

Fresh Greens & Herbs

Full of Flavour

How many times a week do you reach for your pot of ‘mixed herbs’ from the cupboard, not giving a moment’s thought to what’s actually in it?

Herbs can make a huge difference to a meal, and yet so many of us just sprinkle a few dried dregs into our dishes. A small herb garden is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to bring a whole new dimension to your cooking.

Hardy herbs such as sage, rosemary, thyme and marjoram normally live on throughout the year, even in the winter, so they are the perfect starting point. Then, in the summer, you can plant up basil, parsley, mint, chives and tarragon to bring a whole wealth of flavours to your food. Sometimes a bit of mint, or snip of chive can liven up even the most boring meals or side dishes so don’t discount their importance. Click here to discover lots of recipe ideas and advice on growing and cooking with herbs, with lots of advice from experts and chefs. Plus, the health benefits of herbs are also not to be ignored, so a few snips or sprinkles here and there could also improve your health!

More herb facts: - Fresh herbs contain more antioxidants – substances that fight cancer and heart disease – than some fruit and vegetables - Rosemary is rich in antioxidants which help to maintain vitality & slow the ageing process - The Romans believed that the consumption of mint would increase their intelligence and the smell of mint in their houses was also a symbol of hospitality - Growing a pot of basil in the kitchen may smell good to us but it doesn’t to nuisance flies and mosquitoes who are repelled by the aroma - Mint leaves or oil deters ants and so a few scattered leaves in your cupboards can prove a useful, natural solution - Fresh herbs aid the digestion of food – especially fat – and help with the elimination of toxins from the body - Chives have a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, lowering blood pressure - Dill is effective for the treatment of colic, gas and indigestion - Parsley is a natural breath freshener, particularly in combating the potency of garlic - Ancient records reveal recipes for herb infused oils and creams in the tombs of legendary beauties such as Cleopatra

2222 Hero Cheese of the Month -Džiugas

We are proudly presenting this Baltic and lactose- free, cheese which has become a bit of a favourite with our customers. Beautifully crumbly and rich in flavour, this Lithuanian national treasure has been going since 1924. Calcium salt crystals add a little crunch to what could be described as 'vintage Gouda meets artisan cheddar'.

Pronounced 'Dew-gas', this cheese is remarkable, produced in maturations of 12 and 36 month age profiles, the 36 month mature has a close texture, slightly bouncy consistency, very reminiscent of a young parmigiana, although sweeter and less crunchy. For those dairy intolerant cheese lovers, your dream has come true, a first class cheese that's also lactose free!

Winner of various world-wide awards, most notably the Sial Innovation 2013 grand prix, a first for any products from this particular country.

Apart from the accolades handed to this cheese, the most remarkable thing is that it hails from, of all places Lithuania!

Ideal for any bakes, pasta sauces or sandwiches, Džiugas has become an increasingly popular choice for wedding cheese cakes too, with some couples - dare we say it - even dropping the cheddar tier altogether and going for Dziugas instead. Whether you want to take that far or not, this cheese is certainly worth a try.

Try with an English ale or perhaps a good dry sherry such as a Barbadillo.

26 High Street, Buntingford, Herts, SG9 9AQ

www.thecheeseplate.co.uk

Tel: 01763 271533

Email: [email protected]

2323 Herts Listings Skool Disco - Fri 5 Sep 8pm to 2am Go back to school with our Skool Disco! We’ll be playing lots Textured Lives - till Monday 29 Sep AnAn of fantastic songs from the 70s, 80s and 90s to exploration of the textured world using help you recreate ‘the best days of your life'. As photography. An exhibition of work by Charlotte well dancing along to the music played by our Prior. Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, wonderful DJ, why not try the Karaoke where Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW you can sing along with your old school friends to the hits of your youth? Don your skool uniform Ashridge Autumn Trail - Mon 1 Sep to Fri 3131 and get ready to dance the night away! Tickets: Oct Join us for a stroll through the woodland £5.00 Over 25s only Watford Colosseum, discovering more about Autumn time at Ashridge Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 and complete some of the 50 things to do before 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk you’re 11 3/4 on route. Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre HP4 1LT Jongleurs Comedy Club Watford -Sat 6 Sep, Sat 13 Sep, Sat 20 Sep, Sat 27 Sep Walkabout, Hitchin Art Club annual exhibition - Tues 2 to Watford WD17 1AW Thurs 25 Sep The annual exhibition from one of the first art clubs to be founded in Hertfordshire Parent, Baby and Toddler Show - Hertfordshire. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Sat 6 Sep will showcase the very best products Arcade, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW and services provided by local companies. The first 100 visitors will each receive a goody bag Stevenage Family History Society - “Visiting Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG13 1PS The National Archives at Kew” - a talk by Mike Coy- Wednesday 3 Sep Society member Mike Hoddesdon Home & Leisure Show - Sat 6 Sep will give a brief history of Public Records stored The Hoddesdon Home & Leisure Show is back for in the National Archives and offer some tips on its 2nd year and gives the chance for locally how to search the Catalogue, with examples of based companies and organisations to promote what may be found. Friends Meeting House, themselves to the community. High Street, Cuttys Lane, Stevenage SG1 1UP Hoddesdon EN11 8TL

National Trust Watford and District Association The Sounds of the Glenn Miller Era - Sat 6 Sept - Thurs 4 Sep Adam Smith talks about Two The lights soften, the mood settles. An audience Georgian Country Houses in the Chilterns. waits for that first moment of sound. The Big Stanborough Centre, St Albans Road, Garston, Band is poised, relaxed, but with eyes anxious Watford WD25 9JL for the lead. Then, as if giving body to an echo, the murmured notes of ‘Moonlight Ceri Dupree - Thu 4 Sep To celebrate thirty Serenade’…and the night, it seems, is suddenly years on the stage, female impersonator Ceri full and timeless. There are those who watch and Dupree stars in this sensational new show paying listen who tap a shy finger to the melodies, homage to some of his favourite ladies.You can others who follow with a silent foot-beat, still expect side splitting comedy and a visual feast of others who murmur softly through the lyrics, and spectacular, eye popping and jaw dropping those who simply permit a fleeting smile. But costumes. The show provides over two hours of common to all are memories. With a full line-up musical parodies, dazzling quick changes and of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, a rhythm rapid-fire stand up at a pace that will leave you section and special guest vocalist Georgina amazed. The first half celebrates stars from Jackson, the Nick Ross Orchestra will faithfully around the world and the second half pays recreate the wonderful sounds of such Big Bands tribute to the best of British. If you love a touch as those led by Glenn Miller, Count Basie, of class, Hollywood glamour and a laugh out loud Tommy Dorsey and Syd Lawrence.Tickets £21.50, giggle fest all culminating in an exciting and £19.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, breath-taking finale this is not to be missed! Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 Tickets £19.50, £17.00 Watford Colosseum, www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Open Studios - Sat 6, Sun 7, Fri 12 to Sun 14 Sep Open Studios is a great opportunity to Sandridgebury Square Dance - Fri 5 Sep Let experience excellent work by local artists in an your hair down with the Square dance in informal setting. 7 The Quadrant, Letchworth Sandbridgebury. Sandridgebury Lane AL3 6DB SG6 4TY

2424 Open Studios Hertfordshire - Sat 6, Sun 7, Fri "boogie Boy" Lee .Club De Havilland, Hatfield 12 to Sun 14, Fri 19 to Sun 21, Fri 26 to Sun 28 Business Park, Hatfield AL10 9EU Sep During September, Donna Roche, together with Janet Gardner another local artist, is One Night of Queen - Fri 12 Sept Performed by opening her studio to the public. Donna’s work is Gary Mullen and The Works. In 2000, Gary Mullen inspired by nature. She creates pieces in many on ITV’s “Stars In Their Eyes” Live Grand Final, mediums.Naturals Barn, Foxholes Farm, London with the largest number of votes ever received in Road, Hertford SG13 7NI the shows history. The record of 864,838 votes was more than twice that of the runner- Stevenage Wedding Fair - Sun 7 Sep Come and up. Gary began touring on his own and in 2002 join us for the first Wedding Fair at a brand new formed a band ‘The Works’, to pay tribute to venue, The Forum, Stevenage a luxurious rock legends Queen. Since May 2002, ‘Gary banqueting facility seating up to 625 guests. Four Mullen and the Works’ have performed flexible function rooms fully air conditioned. The throughout the UK, USA, Europe, South Africa Forum Banqueting Suites, Danestrete, Stevenage and New Zealand to sell-out audiences. The SG1 1EJ outfit have also twice rocked the prestigious BBC Proms in the Park, in front of a very enthusiastic Beauty in Older Women: Photographs by Edo crowd of 40,000. One Night of Queen is a Zollo - Tues 9 to Mon 29 Sep This stunning spectacular live concert, recreating the look, exhibition has received national acclaim, both in sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the the press and on television. Photographer Edo greatest rock band of all time. This show will Zollo set out to capture the beauty of older ROCK you! Tickets: £20.00, £16.50 Watford women -- and has succeeded brilliantly. Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW Chas & Dave - Sat 13 September Back By Ladies’ Night - Thu 11 Sept 8pm Calling all Demand - The Tour Chas & Dave began writing ladies! An evening full of gorgeous male and performing songs together in 1972, having entertainment, a cheeky drag queen, a devilish been friends since the early sixties. Now cocktail on arrival and a scrumptious three- celebrating their 50th Anniversary by recording course meal - the night is set to tantalise all your their first original album in 27 years which is a senses! In September, get ready for the return of mixture of vintage rock & roll songs and new Miss Dot Com and prepare to be titillated by renditions of their own rockney classics. The performances from Louis Vin Dangler and Rob album also features special guest stars such as Knight. Over 18s only. Contains nudity. Tickets: Jools Holland, Buddy Holly's drummer Jerry £30.00* includes 3-course meal and the evening’s Allison & Hugh Laurie. They reached the top entertainment Watford Colosseum, twenty in 1979 with “Gertcha”, which became a Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 nationwide catchphrase. This was followed by 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk “The Sideboard Song (Got my Beer in the Sideboard Here)". In 1980 they hit the charts Grove House Fashion Show - Thurs 11 Sep Join with “Rabbit”, which reached No. 8 in the charts us for an evening of high fashion at bargain and a No. 2 record in 1982 “Ain't No Pleasing prices. A chance to kick start your You”. This was followed by further hits Autumn/Winter wardrobe without breaking the “Margate”, &“London Girls”. In 1986 they had a bank. All proceeds from the ticket sales go to top six record with “Snooker Loopy”. They have Grove House. Grove House, Waverley Road, St also written title songs for TV shows ‘Till Death Albans AL3 5QX Do Us Part’ and ‘Only Fools & Horses’ Chas & Dave are great musicians and know how to give Hot Pepper Entertainments Present - Thank an audience a good time. They have gained a You For The Music, The UK number 1 ABBA cult audience of both young and old and due to Tribute Show - Fri 12 Sep Thank You For The public demand they are about to be seen Music is the most amazing ABBA tribute show together on stage once more. Tickets: £24.50, starring the UK number 1 ABBA tribute band, £22.50. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth ABBA Sensation. Cuffley Hall, Maynard Place, Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 Cuffley EN6 4JA www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

The Big Jive Spectacular - Fri 12 Sep Featuring Piccotts End Medieval Wall Paintings - Sat 13 The Jive Aces + Cody Lee and The Retro Boys and Sun 14 Sep This is a rare opportunity to see Plus DJ Paul "Get In The Swing" Jackson, dance these important 15th century wall paintings. 132 lesson from www.JiveSwing.com and Cody Piccotts End, Hemel Hempstead

2525 Redbourn Village Museum and Family History Instrumental, a tribute to the therapeutic Centre - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep The Redbourn powers of music, as well as a fascinating insight Experience explains the history of a into the lives of some of the great composers. Hertfordshire Village through the centuries Last year James performed at Latitude Festival, through local finds and in pictures, maps and toured to Hong Kong and Vienna and presented objects. Redbourn Village Museum and Family and performed in the acclaimed television History Centre, Silk Mill House, The Common, documentary Notes from the Inside which aired Redbourn AL3 7NB on Channel 4. James is currently releasing his 5th studio album called 5 and filming his new Redbournbury Watermill - Sat 13 and Sun 14 series for Channel 4 which is due to air this Sep Eighteenth-century restored working September in the UK. Tickets £20.00, £15.50. watermill, producing organic stone-ground flours Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, and bread. Museum, milling demonstrations and Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 artisan bakery on site. Redbournbury Lane, St www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Albans AL3 6RS Berkhamsted Town Hall - Sun 14 Sep Victorian Ware Museum - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep Ware Gothic market house and town hall. Architect Museum is an independent museum opened in Edward Buckton Lamb - built in 1859, extended 1986 in the former Victorian lodge house of Ware in 1890, restored 1983-1999. 196 High Street, Priory. The museum is entirely volunteer run. Berkhamsted HP4 3BA Priory Lodge, 89 High Street, Ware SG12 9AL Berkhamsted Castle Guided Tours - Sun 14 Sep Scotts Grotto - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep Scott’s Guided tours of Berkhamsted Castle, a typical Grotto in Ware is a series of six interconnected motte and bailey Norman castle, built originally chambers decorated with thousands of shells, as a timber structure by William the Conqueror’s flints and pieces of coloured glass. Scotts Road, half-brother. Berkhamsted Castle, Berkhamsted, Ware, SG12 9JQ Claire Lloyd Properties - Sun 14 Sep 173 High St Albans South Signal Box and Railway Museum Street, formerly Figgs the Chemist, is the oldest - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep The Grade II listed known urban timber frame building in the Midland Railway signal box built in 1892 has been country, its timbers dating from the late 13th restored and is fully open to the public. It is the century. 173 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 3HB only preserved main line signal box with public access. Ridgmont Road, St Albans AL1 3AJ Chilterns Countryside and Food Festivals - Sun 14 Sep Come along to our annual festival to Isabel Hospice Starlight Walk 2014 - Sat 13 Sep celebrate the different crafts, industries and Join Isabel Hospice for their 10k Starlight Walk wildlife associated with the Chilterns with an Awesome 80s theme. Come on and grab countryside. Enjoy a day of mouth-watering local those legwarmers, deely boppers and glow sticks produce stalls. Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre and help them make this a night to remember! HP4 1LT Fanshawe Pool and Gym, Ware SG12 0DP Potters Bar Fire Walk - Sun 14 Sep Can you take Autumn Family Fete - Sat 13 Sep A great family the heat? Would you walk on hot coals to help fun day, We have Talk to the Animals attending, Peace Hospice Care support people with a life- who will be bringing a range of Tropical Animals limiting illness in Potters Bar and throughout for the children to touch. Rowans Primary South West Hertfordshire? Elm Court Youth and School, Rowans, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1NZ Community Centre, Mutton Lane, Potters Bar EN6 3BP James Rhodes Live - Sun 14 Sept 7.30pmJames Rhodes has had an astonishing life. After a Family Fun Bike Ride - The Harpenden traumatic childhood, he found his salvation "MacCycle" Day - Sun 14 Sep A Sunday bike ride through classical music. With sheer in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support (Harpenden determination he overcame his experiences and and District). Safe cycling for all the family along went on to become a writer, commentator, TV the old railway line tarmac cycle path. presenter and renowned concert pianist, Harpenden to Luton. Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, performing sold-out concerts around the world. Piggotshill Lane, Harpenden AL5 1JP Using his trademark ‘stand-up style’, insights and anecdotes on classical music, maverick pianist T Rextasy I Love to Boogie - Sun 14 Sep James Rhodes comes to Watford Colosseum with In 1973 a record was released which would his highly unique show. This concert tour bridge the generation gap and become a rock celebrates the release of his memoir, anthem to both young and old – ‘20th Century

2626 Boy’ was written and composed by Marc Bolan. please stay away! Over 18s only. Tickets: £20.00. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage Arts & Leisure Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Hertford Heritage Day - Sun 14 Sep The Castle will open its doors to the public with a medieval Jason Manford - First World Problems - Fri 19 encampment and falconry display on the lawn. Sept Jason Manford is back at the Colosseum Hertford Castle and Town SG14 1HR with a wealth of comedy anecdotes, comic misunderstandings and audience banter Ware Brass - Sun 14 Sep Enjoy listening to Ware delivered with his trademark likeable charm and Brass play on the magnificent Priory Grounds, teasingly intelligent wit. After his opera singing Ware SG12 9AL turn saw him emerge the winner on Born To Shine, Jason put his new found talent into The Little Hadham Antiques Fair - Sun 14 Sep practice joining Alfie Boe on tour prior to a well- An established fair known for its wide range of received run in the West End hit musical quality antiques, jewellery, silver, furniture etc. Sweeney Todd. However, his comedy bones at reasonable prices. Little Hadham Village Hall weren’t completely idle as he enjoyed (Signposted off the A120 between Puckeridge & appearances on QI, Big Fat Quiz of the Year and Bishop’s Stortford) SG11 2BP Comedy World Cup. Jason said: ‘Some of you might think I’ve had a career change what with Mill Green Mill & Museum - Sun 14 Sep Take a all the opera and musical theatre I’ve been doing look behind the scenes, tour the stores and see lately. Not a chance, I’m excited to be getting the work of our collections staff and back to what I really love the most – stand-up!’ volunteers. Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD Tickets £23.50 Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 Tour of the Priory Building - Sun 14 Sep Have 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk a guided tour around The Priory building, a building once home to Friars. A one off tour of Sikes and Nancy - Fri 19 Sep A tale of high the Historic Priory Building which is not usually melodrama featuring the story of the ill-fated open to the public. Ware SG12 9AL Nancy and her brutal end at the hands of Bill Sikes in Dickens’s masterpiece Oliver Twist. Hellfire Comedy Club - Wed 17 Sept 8pm What Letchworth Arts Centre. 2 The Arcade, a great night! A curry and three of the finest up Letchworth Garden City SG6 3EW and coming comedians to entertain you .In September we'll have Andrew Bird; one of those Vivace - Art inspired by Music - Fri 19 to Sun rare comedians who makes friends with his 21 Sep Vivace means lively and exciting in audiences in an instant with his engaging mix of musical terms, which describes our exhibition of childhood stories and more recent anecdotes. work inspired by music. Gravelly Barn, Gravelly He'll be joined by solid stand-up, Paul McCaffrey Lane, Braughing SG11 2RD and Bryan Lacey, who mixes observational material, silly stories and quick gags with some The West End Experience - Sat 20 Sept AA excellent improvisational skills. Tickets: £18.00 Showcase of the Musicals, Starring Asa Elliott (includes curry and the evening’s entertainment) from ITV’s Benidorm! Transporting you on a Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, journey through the musicals and into the heart Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 of London’s theatreland! Performed by a cast of www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk sensational artists direct from London’s West End and a superb live band, this all-singing, all- Roy Chubby Brown - Thu 18 Sept Who ate all dancing production features over 140 dazzling the Pies! Live. Roy Chubby Brown returns with costumes, beautiful vocal performances & his bluest show yet! He’s still rude, he’s still thrilling choreography as it showcases West End crude and this time he’s turning headlines into musicals past & present. Featuring smash hit punch lines as his rip-roaring brand of banter songs from … Chicago, Phantom Of The Opera, continues to burst bellies across the country. Les Miserables, Grease, Mamma Mia, We Will Chubby doesn’t hold back from sharing his Rock You, The Lion King, Wicked, Dirty Dancing, outlandish views on news, women and gender, Jersey Boys…and many more; this truly sailing so close to the mark, even the most spectacular show promises to be the perfect seasoned of fans will be left gob-smacked! As musical extravaganza to suit all! Tickets £22.50, politically incorrect as ever ‘The World’s Most £19.50. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Outrageous Comedian’ is far too rude for TV, so Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 this live performance is the only place to catch www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk the flamboyant comedian! If easily offended

2727 Soul Legends is coming to Hoddesdon - Sat 20 St Albans Cathedral Flower Festival: Music in Sep Billed as “the feel good show of the year”, Bloom - Thur 25 to Sun 28 Sep For four days in brand-new smash-hit, Stateside spectacular Soul September, St Albans Cathedral will be Legends is coming to town. Broxbourne Civic transformed into a stunning oasis of colour and Hall, High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BE sound when the 2014 ‘Music in Bloom’ Flower Festival opens. St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Andy and Mike’s Tick Tock Time Machine - Sat Yard, St Albans WD19 6UH 20 Sep Starring Andy Day from Andy’s Wild Adventures (CBeebies) alongside comedy partner Autumn Equinox - A Celebration of Gratitude: Mike James. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, An Evening of Sacred Sound - Fri 26 Sep InIn Hertford SG13 1PS Autumn it is traditional to give thanks for the bounty that the year has provided us with both in Outdoor Cinema - Sat 20 Sep and Sun 21 Sep terms of the natural year and also our own lives. Classic films (Grease and Top Gun) on a giant Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall, The Forebury, screen in the Park. Bring a picnic and a Sawbridgeworth CM21 9BD rug. Knebworth House SG1 2AX The Haunting of Hill House - Sat 27 Sep AA Arkley Village Scarecrow Fete - Sat 20 SepFun chilling and mystifying study in mounting terror for all the Family with games, dressing up, Beat in which a small group of psychically receptive the Goalie, tombola, raffle with fabulous prizes. people are brought together in Hill House, a Lots of international food stalls, Pimms stall, brooding, mid-Victorian mansion. Hawthorne Black Horse micro-brewery, ice cream. Arkley Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City AL8 Village Hall, Brickfield Lane, off Barnet Road, 6BX Barnet (opposite Gate Pub) EN5 3LD Monthly Table Top Sale - Sat 27 Sep Hoddesdon NCT Nearly New Sale - Sat 20 Sep Sale of good Methodist Church run a monthly (last Saturday of quality ’nearly new’ baby and children’s wear, the Month) Table Top Sale in the Methodist maternity clothes and nursery equipment. Great Church Hall Middlefield Road Hoddesdon EN11 bargains can be found. Kingshott School, Hitchin 9ED. SG4 7JX The Big Model Show - Sat 27 and Sun 28 Sep StSt Jasper Carrott - Stand Up and Rock- Sun 21 Albans Model Engineering Society the Big Model Sept Stand Up And Rock does what it says on the Show Free miniature train rides; Model tin....Jasper is back to his very best....mic in locomotives & Stationary engines in steam; hand regaling the audience with his 'new' stand Model boats; Free ‘Have-a-go’ radio controlled up routines before introducing his musical model. Townsend Church of England School, High compatriots that have been 'rockin' audiences all Oakes, St Albans AL3 6DR over the world. Bev Bevan, as well as been Jasper's mate has rock star credentials that most Stevenage Family History Society - Family dream of...... Trevor Burton of The Move, the History Open Day - Sat 27 Sep Join us at first band played on Radio 1.....Geoff Turton Stevenage Museum and find out how to uncover lead singer of the Rockin Berries.....Joy your family roots. Guidance will be available on Strachan-Brain the lead singer of one of the UK's how to get started in family history research. finest Celtic rock bands Quill.So do not miss this Stevenage Museum, St. Georges Way, Stevenage, unique show that gives the opportunity to see SG1 1XX and hear great legendary artistes belt out a night of fantastic songs and Jasper back where he The Mercure London Watford Hotel Wedding belongs...... making us laugh!! Tickets: £28.00. Show - Sun 28 Sep A chance to meet local Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, suppliers to help put that finishing touch to your Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 075 3993 special day! A41 Watford Bypass, Watford WD25 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 8JH

Cupcake Decorating - Mon 22 Sep Learn to Autumn Wedding Exhibition - Sun 28 Sep The decorate fun and delicious cupcakes with a Castle will open its doors for couples to be variety of decorations. We will teach you the inspired for their special day. With an array of secrets of perfect rose piped and classic peaked suppliers exhibiting under one Royal roof, the swirls using whipped buttercream. 99p flake Castle will host photographers, bridal wear. cakes. Grove House, Waverly Road, St Albans AL4 Hertford Castle SG14 1HR 9EJ

2828 Beds Listings Evening with a Medium - Sat 6 Sep Denise Newman will be leading this special evening. A-Maize-ing Maze At Mead Open Farm - till Whipsnade Village Hall, off B4540, LU6 2LG Tues 30 Sep Is it left or is it right? Find your way through Mead Open Farm’s A-Maize-ing Maze Airshow: Shuttleworth Pageant - Sun 7 Sep The with over 4 acres of corn fun. A fun activity for Shuttleworth Pageant showcases all of the all ages! Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Collection’s aircraft and vehicles and this year Billington LU7 9JH there will be an emphasis on items collected personally by Richard Shuttleworth. The Summer fun at Woodside - till Tues 2 Sep Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome Holiday fun including tractor rides, meet and SG18 9EP feed the animals, animal handling and demonstrations with reptiles, owls and much Stondon Classic Transport Festival - Sun 7 Sep more, chick and bunny cuddling, indoor play Classic cars, lots of family fun, bouncy castle, barn, outdoor play areas. Mancroft Rd, Aley face painting, paint balling, craft stalls, school Green, nr. Luton LU1 4DG game stalls, refreshments, food stalls, BBQ and lots more. Stondon Recreation ground Bedfordshire Youth Opera Presents Mozart’s ’Magic Flute’ - Wed 3 to Sat 6 Sep Bedfordshire Business Networking Event - Tue 9 Sep Do you Youth Opera return to The Place Theatre with a like to network in the Luton & Bedfordshire area? new production of Mozart’s classic fairytale, The Why not join us with 8 Business Networking for Magic Flute. Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE some relaxed and informal B2B / B2C sessions. G Casino 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE Free social media and networking event -Thur 4 Sep Come along to the free event for the Moggerhanger Park - Thur 11 Sep Experience chance to network and learn about social media the unique history of Moggerhanger Park on a best practices. Four social media seminars will house tour. There is so much to discover here at be given. Viking Self Storage, Caxton Road, Elms the original home of the Thornton family, Farm Industrial Estate, Off Goldington Road, designed by Sir John Soane. Moggerhanger Park, Bedford MK41 0HT Park Road, Moggerhanger MK44 3RW

Flitton and Greenfield Gala Day - Sat 6 Sep John Bunyan Museum and Bunyan Meeting - Flitton and Greenfield Gala is an annual event to Thur 11 to Sat 13 Sep John Bunyan, author of raise funds for the village hall and is a fun day The Pilgrim’s Progress, is one of Bedford’s most for all to enjoy. This year’s theme is famous sons. Visit the Museum and Church and commemorating the start of World War One. take a walk through Bunyan’s life and times. Flitton & Greenfield Village Hall and Recreation Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU Ground, Greenfield Road, Flitton MK45 5DR Guided tours at Bromham Mill and Cafe - Fri 12 Relay for life Cancer Research UK - Sat 6 Sep to Sun 14 Sep Bromham Mill is a late 18th or Family fun packed weekend. Stalls. Raffles. early 19th century rebuilding in brick, timber Teams of friends and family relay for life walking and stone on the site of earlier mills. It had two 24 hours. Candles lit for survivors and waterwheels. Bromham Mill, Bridge End, remembrance Saturday evening. Stockwood Park Bromham, Bedford MK43 8LP Luton LU1 4BH Queen Anne’s Summerhouse - Fri 12 to Sun 14 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk - Sat 6 SepWho will Sep Hidden in a pine wood on the edge of the you walk for this September? Join us in Priory Shuttleworth estate is this intriguing folly with Country Park, home of our special Bedford high quality 18th-century brickwork. The Memory Walk. Come along and you’ll be helping Warren, Shuttleworth Estate, Old Warden, raise much-needed funds. Priory Marina, Biggleswade SG18 9EB Bedford, MK41 9DJ Luton Hoo Walled Garden - Sat 13 Sep Designed Tom Jones Tribute - Sat 6 Sep Join in our by Capability Brown for the 3rd Earl of Bute in weekend entertainment with Simon Abbotts as 1769 and now being restored to its former ‘Tom Jones’ performing LIVE in our bar area. splendour. The Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Luton Reaching the finals of BBC One’s The One and Hoo Estate, Luton LU1 4LF Only, Simon became the essential sound-alike. G Casino 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE Lime Kiln Vault, The Higgins Bedford - Sat 13 Sep A rare opportunity to access the lime kiln vault which forms part of the Castle Quay

2929 development next door to The Higgins Bedford, Communities Charity (BRCC) has run the on the site of Bedford Castle. The Higgins vineyard, cared for by volunteers, since 2010; Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD working with other local organisations and schools. Warden Abbey Community Vineyard, Tina Turner Tribute performing LIVE at Bedford Road, Nr Old Warden Grosvenor G Casino Luton - Sat 13 Sep Join in our weekend entertainment with Justine Riddoch Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre and Tea as our ‘Tina Turner Tribute’ performing live in Room - Sun 14 Sep Restored 1846 station house our bar area. Officially The UK’s Number One in Victorian Gothic Cottage Orné style with small Tribute to Tina Turner.35 Park Street West, but growing collection of railway heritage Luton LU1 3BE artifacts in the former booking office. Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre, The Railway Station, Willington Dovecote Celebration: a hundred Station Road, Ridgmont MK43 3XP years with the National Trust - Sat 13 Sep Join with us to celebrate that the spectacular St John The Baptist Church, Cockayne Hatley - Willington Dovecote was given to the National Sun 14 Sep The church of St. John the Baptist is Trust 100 years ago, in 1914. Church End, a lovely 12th century country church situated at Willington, Bedford MK44 3PU the gates of an ancient hall, the ancestral home of the Cockayne family. Cockayne Hatley SG19 Stevington Windmill- Sat 13 Sep Constructed 2EA around a central post so that it can be turned to face into the wind, this impressive postmill was Guitar and Flute Concert - Fri 19 Sep This built in the 18th century. Stevington Windmill, 2 London based duo will be playing light classics Windmill Lane, Stevington, MK43 7QZ and many familiar tunes. Light refreshments available, at start of evening as well as during Moot Hall, Elstow - Step into the World of John the interval. Whipsnade Village Hall, off B4540, Bunyan- Sat 13 Sep A 15th century timber LU6 2LG framed market house set on the village green in Elstow. The Moot Hall was originally built to On Golden Pond - Fri 19, Sat 20, Thu 25 to Sat serve Elstow Abbey but is now a museum. Moot 27 Sep TADS Theatre Group present On Golden Hall, Church End, Elstow, Bedford MK42 9XT Pond. A touching, funny and warmly perceptive study of a spirited and lovable elderly couple Hart House Business Centre - Sun 14 Sep Hart facing their twilight years. Tads Theatre Conger House was built in 1907 as the headquarters of Lane, Toddington LU5 6BT Vauxhall Motors. It is a Grade II listed building, built in William and Mary style. Hart House A Classic Evening Airshow - Sat 20 Sepep Soak up Business Centre, Kimpton Road, Luton LU2 0LB the ambience at our classic evening airshow. The flying display includes a selection of our historic Heritage Walks in a Beautiful Cemetery - Sun aircraft and features visiting aircraft. The 14 Sep We have escorted Heritage walks around Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, the extensive grounds. As the ground is on a SG18 9EP sloping hilly site it is best to wear suitable footwear. Bedford Cemetery, Foster Hill Road, George Michael Tribute performing live at Bedford MK41 7TD Grosvenor G Casino Luton - Sat 20 Sep Join in our weekend entertainment with Pete Valentine Open Church and Mausoleum - Sun 14 Sep StSt as our ‘George Michael Tribute’ performing LIVE Mary’s Church will be open for visitors to look in our bar area. 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 round and listen to the organ. The Ailesbury 3BE Mausoleum and Crypt in the churchyard will also be open. St Mary’s Church, Church Road, Grosvenor’s Got Talent Show Contestant Heat Maulden MK45 2AU - Fri 26 Sep Do you think you have the ‘X-Factor’ or the ‘Skills’ to be the next big thing in Ailesbury Mausoleum and Crypt - Sun 14 Sep entertainment? How about the ability to impress This is a fine example of one of the first our judges and wow an audience? 35 Park Street mausoleum to be built in this country with the West, Luton LU1 3BE earliest parts being built by Thomas Bruce, a descendant of the legendary Robbie! Church Old Tyme Music Hall - Fri 26 and Sat 27 Sep Road, Maulden MK45 2AU Maulden History Society together with Maulden Players are putting on an Old Tyme Music Hall to Warden Abbey Community Vineyard Open Day commemorate the outbreak of World War I in and Wine Sale - Sun 14 Sep Bedfordshire Rural 1914. All profits will go to Forces

3030 charities. Village Hall, Flitwick Road, Maulden Chalfont St Giles Show 2014 - Sat 6 Sep MK45 2DP Cameron Farm, Narcot Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4DX Nearly New Sale (Sale of quality clothes, toys and equipment 0-5/6 years) - Sat 27 Sep Items Day Out With Thomas at Buckinghamshire for sale include baby equipment, Children’s Railway Centre - Sat 6 and Sun 7 Sep On these clothes from birth, bedding, sleeping bags, special days take a ride behind Thomas the Tank quality pre-school toys, maternity clothes and Engine™ under the watchful eye of Sir Topham much much more. Athletic Stadium, Barkers Hatt, The Fat Controller. Buckinghamshire Lane, Bedford MK41 9SB Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY Mice with Glasses Indie Rock Band performing LIVE at Grosvenor G Casino Luton – Sat 27 Sep Jumbled jigsaw trail - Sat 6 and Sun 7 Sep For Join in our payday weekend entertainment with all ages: complete a trail through the Museum to Indie Rock Band ‘Mice with Glasses’ performing uncover a child hidden in the chocolate LIVE in our bar area! An energetic and talented factory. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden covers band. 35 Park Street West, Luton LU1 3BE HP16 0AL

Bucks Listings Chearsley Classic Car & Fun Day - Sun 7 Sep AA fantastic free day for all the family featuring Summer Circus Spectacular - till Tues 2 Sep classic cars from a bygone era. There will be Roll Up, Roll Up! enjoy the fun and excitement children’s rides; pets corner; art and crafts as of the Charles Chipperfield Circus at Odd Farm well as plenty of food and drink. Chearsley Park! Inside the Big Top, marvel at the Cricket Club, Winchendon Road, Chearsley HP18 spectacular human acts. Odds Farm Park, 0DW Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe HP10 0LX Country Fair at Hazeldene Farm- Sun 7 Sep Country Fair at Hazeldene Farm in aid of Chiltern Muggled mirror paintings - Tues 2 Sep For 4+ & Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Lots of years: make some crackling characters using this stallholders, children’s rides. Air rifle range, marvellous mirrored painting technique. Will you Pony Rides, Blow up Slide, go on a farm walk. make a wacky Willy Wonka, or a bright purple Tea & cake. Hazeldene Farm, Asheridge Road, Violet Beauregarde? 81-83 High Street, Great Chesham HP5 2XD Missenden HP16 0AL Wedding Fair - Sun 7 Sep Planning on getting Family History Talk: What’s In The Parish hitched? Come along to the Missenden Abbey Chest? - Weds 3 Sep Richard Ratcliffe looks at wedding fair to browse through a variety of local the wide variety of records which used to be wedding suppliers and see the Abbey set up for a kept in the Parish Chest from the 15th century to ceremony. Missenden Abbey, London Road, Great the early 20th. Methodist Church Hall, Missenden HP16 0BD Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK2 2HB Craft and Vintage Fair - Sun 7 Sep In the lively Bogswizzling bookmarks - Weds 3 Sepep For 4+ Olney Centre, Olney High Street, we present our years: Beat the back-to-school blues and make a Craft and Vintage Fairs, featuring a lovely mix of bedazzling bookmark in the shape of your craft and vintage stalls; something for everyone favourite Roald Dahl character. 81-83 High and every pocket. The Olney Centre, High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL Street, Olney MK46 4EF

Country Fete - Sat 6 Sep Home Produce, Fruit, The Great War Remembered, Living Archive Vegetables, Chutney, Jams, Cakes, BBQ, MK - Thur 11 to Sat 13 Sep An exhibition to Tombola, Raffle, Bric-a-brac, Hat Stall, Books, commemorate the Great War. Featuring Games, Vestry Teas etc. St. Mary’s Churchyard. photographs, stories and artefacts from the Village Road Deham Village UB9 5BB Milton Keynes area. Discover Milton Keynes Showcase, Milton Keynes Library, 555 Silbury Sausage, Ale & Cider festival - Sat 6 Sep Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 3HL Wingrave will be hosting their very first Sausage, Ale & Cider festival - with a great range of Memories of Bletchley Railway Station - Thur beverages to choose from as well as some 11 to Sat 13 Sep An exhibition of photos and fantastic live music and lots to do. Wingrave memorabilia which give an insight into life at Sports and Social Club, Wingrave HP22 4QB Bletchley Railway Station. Bletchley Library,

3131 Westfield Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK2 National Badminton Museum Open Day - Sat 13 2RA Sep Exhibition of badminton memorabilia which is normally on view in National Badminton Bletchley Park Community Days - Thur 11 to Centre. National Badminton Centre, Bradwell Sat 13 Sep Bletchley Park will be getting into the Road, Loughton Lodge, Milton Keynes MK8 9LA spirit of Heritage Open Days by offering free entry to Milton Keynes residents and celebrating Sounds of Georgian Stowe - The Gothic Temple the history which makes local communities The - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep The Gothic Temple is a Mansion, Bletchley Park, Sherwood Drive, splendid, historic folly built in the gardens at Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB Stowe in 1741. Stowe School, Stowe MK18 5DF

Talk: Code-Breaking, Bletchley Park - Thur 11 Bradwell Windmill Open Day - Sat 13 and Sun Sep Talk given by Tom Brigg, Education Officer, 14 Sep Early 1800’s windmill, newly restored to Bletchley Park Museum on Code-Breaking. working order and able to mill by wind-power or Bletchley Library, Westfield Road, Bletchley, electric motor. Bradwell Windmill, Nightingale Milton Keynes MK2 2RA Crescent, Bradville, Milton Keynes MK13 7UE

Women’s Football - a brief history - Thur 11 to An Exhibition of Work by Lesley Humphreys- Sun 14 Sep A small exhibition that celebrates Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep We will be opening to the hosting of the 2014 Women’s FA Cup Final at the public with performances, exhibitions and Stadium:MK. Outlining the story of the women’s open studios taking place over the weekend. game since the first recorded match. Pitchside Westbury Arts Centre, Foxcovert Road, Shenley Bar, 2nd Floor, DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Wood, Milton Keynes MK5 6AA Stadium:MK, Milton Keynes MK1 1ST Roald Dahl Day celebrations - Sat 13 Sep For Open Studios and Exhibition at Inter-Action MK all ages: come and celebrate Roald Dahl’s - Thur 11 to Sun 14 Sep Inter-Action MK’s birthday with us! A jam-packed day of events resident artist will have their studios open and and activities, including a Golden Ticket trail, there will be an exhibition of work in our art magic and face-painting and Oompa-Loompa. 81- room space. The Old Rectory, Waterside, 83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL Peartree Bridge, Milton Keynes MK6 3EJ Shakespeare in the Garden - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Milton Keynes Museum - Open Days and Annual Sep We will be open to the public with Beer Festival - Thur 11 to Sun 14 Sep Victorian performances, exhibitions and open studios farmhouse and school room, street of shops, taking place over the weekend. Westbury Arts working telephones, Hall of Transport and much Centre, Foxcovert Road, Shenley Wood, Milton more in a beautiful setting of an historical Keynes MK5 6AA Victorian Model Farm site. Milton Keynes Museum, McConnell Drive, Wolverton, Milton Discover local heritage at the Cowper and Keynes MK12 5EL Newton Museum - Sat 13 and Sun 14 Sep See William Cowper’s Summer House that he fondly Through the Lens, Living Archive MK - Fri 12 called his ’verse manufactory’ in our beautiful Sep A glimpse of the history of Milton Keynes in Georgian garden. Cowper and Newton Museum, moving images compiled from archive footage Orchard Side, Market Place, Olney, Milton Keynes from 1940s to the present day. Milton Keynes MK46 4AJ Gallery, 900 Midsummer Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 3QA Family History Workshop: Your First World Warar Ancestors - Sat 13 Sep Do you need help in Ring of Steel - Fri 12 Sep An opportunity to look finding out what your ancestors did during WWI? at the display of photos that are around the Drop in with their information if you have it: full Concourse. These are school photos as well as name, date of birth, regiment or postal address. individual photos. StadiumMK, Stadium Way Local Studies Library (Milton Keynes Central West, Milton Keynes MK1 1ST Library), 555 Silbury Boulevard, Central Milton Keynes, MK9 3HL The 12th Cock and Bull Real Beer and Cider Festival - Fri 12 and Sat 13 Sep Two dozen real Marlow’s own Last Night of the Proms - Sat 13 beers and ciders - mostly from the local region Sep Marlow will have its very own Last Night of and wines and juices courtesy of the local the Proms on Saturday 13th September. The Fairtrade group (charge for drinks). Free entry to concert features the ever-popular Marlow Music enjoy music York House Centre, London Road, Makers, singing a selection of their recent Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1JQ

3232 material. Christ Church URC, Oxford Road, Handmade Craft Fair - Sat 20 Sep Craft Fair, Marlow SL7 2NL where Everything Is Handmade, and no bought-in or mass produced goods will be found. Items will Little Chalfont Farmers’ Market - Sat 13 Sepep include: Jewellery, Art, Woodcrafts, Stoneware Great selection of quality, locally produced food & Pottery, Fabric & Knitted Goods. British Legion at this monthly market. Buy rare-breed pork, Hall, Queensmead Road, Loudwater, High bacon and sausages, buffalo meat, lamb, game Wycombe HP10 9XA and poultry. Plus seasonal fruit and vegetables. Village Hall car park, Cokes Lane, Little Chalfont From Chesham to Bollywood with a Fairtrade HP8 4UD Cuppa - Sat 20 Sep An evening of food, dance & inspiration hosted by Chesham4Fairtrade. Medieval Re-enactment Fair - Sat 13 Sep Join Fantastic food provided by trendy new Indian us for a unique, entertaining and informative day restaurant Papad with free Fairtrade tea & of medieval displays and re-enactment from The coffee. Chesham Town Hall, Chesham HP5 1DS Lion Rampant. Enjoy a truly exciting day of archery, squire training, dancing, music. Augustus Gloop trail - Sat 20 and Sun 21 Sep Missenden Abbey, London Road, Great Missenden For all ages: go on a hunt for Augustus Gloop’s HP16 0BD chocolate wrappers and find out facts about the Museum.81-83 High Street, Great Missenden Buckinghamshire Railway Centre - Vintage HP16 0AL Train Steaming Open Day - Sun 14 Sep A chance to ride on our historic Vintage Stock dating from Traction Engine Rally Buckinghamshire Railway the 1890s with no extra charge. Buckinghamshire Centre - Sat 20 and Sun 21 Sep Traction Engine Railway Centre occupies an extensive site in Rally An exciting weekend of steaming monsters, rolling Buckinghamshire countryside. side shows, stalls and displays. Buckinghamshire Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Station, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY

Chilterns Countryside and Food Festival - Sun Marlow Food Festival - Sun 21 Sep Now in its 14 Sep Visit the Wycombe Museum marquee and 5th year, the Marlow Food Festival is established discover how some local trades are closely linked as an event that attracts more the 2000 people to the woodlands of the Chilterns. Ashridge to sample the stall’s delights, watch food Estate Visitors Centre, Moneybury Hill HP4 1LXX demonstrations. The Compleat Angler Hotel, Marlow Bridge SL7 1RG Brian Lara Invitational Cricket Day at Wormsley Cricket on the Getty Family Estate - Sun 14 Sep Town Tour and Tea with the Mayor - Sun 21 Raising funds for the Rwanda Cricket Stadium Sep Mayor’s Appeal - Town Tour and Tea with Foundation, with stars including Brian Lara and the Mayor Tours at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm - starting Andrew Strauss. The Wormsley Estate from Wycombe Museum Support the Mayor’s Stokenchurch - just 30 seconds off Junction 5 of Appeal with a guided town tour followed by tea the M40 HP14 3YG and cakes. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue. High Wycombe HP13 6PX Roald Dahl Day challenge - Sun 14 Sep Follow a trail through the Museum and around the village Lunchtime Concert: Robert Cheung (Piano) - of Great Missenden to discover facts about Roald Weds 24 Sep We welcome Robert Cheung, who Dahl. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 enthralled our lunchtime audience last year, and 0AL which made him an irresistible choice for this year’s lunchtime concert series. He will play Tudor Fayre & Charter Day - Sun 14 Sep Tudor works by Beethoven, Liszt. All Saints Church, Fayre and Charter Day - events and activities for Church Square, High Wycombe HP11 2BN all the family in the Museum’s walled garden and Aylesbury’s Market Square. Buckinghamshire Chiltern Painters Art Exhibition - Thur 25 to County Museum & Market Square, Aylesbury HP20 Sun 28 Sep The Chiltern Painters will be holding 2QP their Art Exhibition at the The Market Hall, Old Amersham, HP7 0DP Marlow Carnival - Sat 20 Sep The Carnival is organised by the Marlow Community Association "Woman in Mind" by Alan Ayckbourn - Fri 26 to and has been an annual event for close on 30 Sun 28 Sep Chesham Bois Catholic Players’ years. Well supported by the local community, autumn production of "Woman in Mind" is widely with Bar, BBQ and a Tea Boutique Higginson regarded as one of Alan Ayckbourn’s best plays. Park, Marlow SL7 2AE

3333 The Little Theatre by the Park, Church Street, and exhibitors at your disposal. Berry Hill, Chesham HP5 1HU Taplow, Nr Maidenhead SL6 0DA

Hugless Douglas - Sat 27 Sep Hugless Douglas is ’Looks Like Love’ - Mon 29 and Tue 30 Sep a huggable, lovable young brown bear who wakes Creating Sunshine Theatre Company have up one morning in need of a hug. He tries to find produced a new 60 minute musical called ‘Looks the perfect one, but none of them seem quite Like Love’ written by Mark Britton. Wooburn right. Stantonbury Theatre MK14 6BN Club, 16 The Green, Wooburn Green HP10 0EF

Jazz Supper - Double Bill- Sat 27 Sep This year Aylesbury Farmers’ Market - Tue 30 Sep Find we are pleased to feature award winning fantastic local produce at Aylesbury Farmers instrumental Jazz musician - Craig Milverton and Market on the last Tuesday of every month. Also his trio and the virtuoso vibraphonist Anthony browse the stalls of the Vintage & Craft Bazaar Kerr. Royal British Legion, Flackwell Heath HP10 to find unique handmade, antique and 9NS collectable. Market Square, Aylesbury HP20 1TW

Drawing from Nature: Workshop- Sat 27 Sep 1:30pm - 3:30pm. Observational drawing from natural history specimens led by Katrina van Grouw, author and illustrator of The Unfeathered Bird. Buckinghamshire County Museum and Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP To be included in future listings Wooburn Singers - Come and Sing- Sat 27 Sep Email: [email protected] Musical Director Tom Hammond-Davies has chosen an early work by Handel - Dixit Dominus - Putting ‘Listings’ in the subject line, giving (composed in his early 20’s which predates the details of your event and contact details. Messiah). The Beaconsfield School, Wattleton Road, Beaconsfield HP9 1SJ Deadline for October Issue 1515thth September Moonrakers Celtic Music- Sat 27 Sep ……………………………………………………………………………… Moonrakers (www.moonrakers.net) are four consummate musicians playing harp, fiddle, whistles, guitar, Irish bouzouki and female/male vocals. St Michael’s Church, Stewkley, Nr Leighton Buzzard, LU7 OHL

Mike Teavee trail - Sat 27 and Sun 28 Sep For all ages: hunt for Mike Teavee’s sunglasses www.the-sticks.co.uk around the Museum and discover fantabulous facts about the creation of this television- The No1 what’s on and lifestyle magazine in obsessed character. 81-83 High Street, Great Herts, Beds and Bucks Missenden HP16 0AL Over 16,000 readers every month read about what’s on, where to go and what to do Buckingham Garden Centre Apple Weekend - Sat 27 and Sun 28 Sep Buckingham Garden Promote your event, show, restaurant or Centre’s Celebration of The Apple in all its business in our digital magazine or on our Guises. Buckingham Garden Centre, Tingewick website Road, Buckingham MK18 4AE Call 07756 274444 Sugar and Spice - Sat 27 Sep Why is it a Or email [email protected] ‘Victoria’ Sponge? What biscuits were eaten in Prices from £10 per month World War 1? Join us for coffee and a cake in aid Follow us on twitter @thesticks9 of Macmillan Cancer Research and find out about cakes. Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue. High www.facebook.com/sticksmag Wycombe HP13 6PX Listen to the Sticks Radio show every Monday at Wedding Fair at Taplow House Hotel - Sun 28 10am at www.secklowsounds.org Sep All the needs of your special day under one roof enhanced by a beautiful venue with staff

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