Decision day looms for Harpenden The WINTER edition November 2014

Also in this issue: Harpenden House Hotel update

New Conference and Events facility in HarpendenPension advice on the 2015 reformsThe future of cricket on the Common

Foodbank Christmas and New Year openings. Launch of the AT Society Charity Calendar

Harpenden residents have until Nov 23 to register their views about the Strategic Local Plan:• You may want to see the Town expand with

more housebuilding especially ‘affordable homes’

• You may be concerned about the loss of green belt land.

• You may wonder why the infrastructure does not match the needs of the growing population.

Use this opportunity to register your thoughts on line or via the printed document.STAY THE SAME OR CHANGE FOR THE BETTER!

Start Christmas at the Carnival Harpenden’s Christmas Carnival on Sunday Nov 23 will be another spectacular event starting at noon both live events and the Farmers Market.Read the full story on page 6.

It’s also the time to plan your Christmas shopping with a visit to the local independent retailers who have joined a campaign ‘Make Christmas Shopping easy here in Harpenden’. See all the details inc the FREE PRIZE DRAW on page 4

From the Editor.November 17 2014.

With a growing population in the whole SADC region there is an immediate need for land to be found to build new homes now and in the future.

Some homes will have to be built in Harpenden. You have the power to influence decisions-take it.

Editorials in this issue give the views of various local groups.

With Christmas not far away there’s a lot happening on the Harpenden High Street. Check out what local stores have to offer before making journeys elsewhere.

A big thank you to all the contributors and the writers who have contributed to this edition.

Ron Taylor.info@harpendia.com

Harpenden news updates Check out the Harpendia web site daily

www.harpendia.com

News about the new secondary school in Harpenden will be

announced early in 2015

The Secondary School Trust is already working co-operatively among the three existing senior

schools and all three head teachers to ensure the new school is the equal of all senior schools in

Harpenden.

Follow the ongoing story atwww.harpendia.com

All change on the Harpenden High Street.

PLUS Harpenden House Hotel updates

Follow the ongoing stories at

www.harpendia.com

ST ALBANS and DISTRICT FOODBANK - Christmas opening arrangements

The Foodbank will be open and operating as normal on non Bank Holiday days however, many of the agencies issuing vouchers for the The St Albans and District Foodbank will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period perhaps making it difficult for clients to obtain vouchers and therefore vital food boxes.

As the Foodbank can issue its own vouchers it will be offering a food box delivery service on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve for people in need in the District. The service will be by appointment only, ie, you will need to call to arrange a food box, you will not be able to just turn up.

If during the holiday period you need help with food, please contact the Foodbank direct on 07787 867703.  The Foodbank is open to anyone in crisis, whether you are employed or on benefits.

For more information please call 07787 867703 or staadfoodbank@yahoo.co.uk

LOCAL MP PETERLILLEY URGES HARPENDEN RESIDENTS TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON NEW LOCAL PLAN

Following the publication of the St Albans District Draft Strategic Local Plan, Peter Lilley is encouraging locals to have their say. The plan, which will determine what can be built in the area and where, is open for consultation until 5pm on Sunday 23rd November. “The planning system means that if we do NOT have a Local Plan it will be far harder to resist developers wherever they propose to build,” said Peter. “We will lose control, not just of the amount of development, but where it takes place if we cannot say “the Plan does not allow development there”. And to get a Plan in place we need to have the approval of the planning inspectors. They will not give that approval unless the Plan includes a reasonable number of new dwellings. “Independent consultants have estimated that we need to build 436 new homes a year across the whole of the St Albans District area over the next 20 years. I understand

that this number is significantly below the ‘indicative’ figure from the Office of National Statistics. To defend it our Councillors will need robust evidence that can withstand scrutiny. At the end of the day we will have to accept our share - not more than our share - of the new homes needed to cope with the chronic housing shortage this country faces. Our local councillors have the invidious task of finding the least bad places to build homes. To resist all development would leave us in the worst possible position: no Plan and therefore unable to defend the environment which makes Harpenden such an attractive place to live. “It is extremely important that the final plan is sensitive to the views of local residents and that everybody has the opportunity to have their say on a document which will shape our local area over the next 20 years. As well as raising concerns, this is also an opportunity to specify what you would like to see built – primary schools, smaller and more affordable homes, redevelopment of public building etc. I encourage everyone to have their say on the content of the Local Plan and submit their views on the Consultation Portal.”www.stalbans.gov.uk/slp  

Views on the Strategic Local Plan

The Harpenden Green Belt Association have prepared a statement of their views with help on how to respond.Click here to find out more:http://www.harpendengreenbelt.org.uk/howtorespond.html

The Harpenden Society are preparing a statement of their views. Click here to find out more:www.harpendensociety.org

Supported by many of Harpenden’s independent retailers the promotion will launch on the Harpenden High Street on Sunday Nov 23rd. There’s a great range of shops in Harpenden and they want to encourage local residents to do their Christmas shopping in Harpenden. Look out for the posters and showcards in the shops to identify the participating shops.

Special Christmas Promotion by Harpenden Retailers inc Free Prize Draw

FOUR WEEKLY DRAWS TO WIN PRIZES DONATED BY LOCAL RETAILERSGood Sports: £10 voucher x 4Nice: £10 voucher x 4Fonehouse: fonehouse mobile phonecaseGodfreys Chip Shop: Takeaway meal for4 (up to the value of £30) to be used inone transaction.All Floors: £100 voucher on a £300 spendBreathing Space: Voucher for Anti Stress Back Ritual – value £70Silver Palate: A festive food and drinkhamper worth £75Oui: November 28th a Oui Necklace,December 5th – Styling session and 25% off a Christmas sweater ready for the 12th December – National Christmas Sweater Day, December 12th Pair of Dyrberg Kernearrings, December 19th 25% off everything in store – an early Christmas present.Serena Hart: 4 x £10 Serena Hart GiftVouchers20/20 Eye Care:Nov 28 – Adidas ladies sports sunglasses.

Dec 5 – Nike mens sports sunglasses.Dec 12 – Gant mens sunglasses.Dec 19 – Guess ladies sunglasses.Rollings Wine. 1 bottle of NyetimberClassic Cuvee 2009 English SparklingWine. 4 x £5 Tasting CardsThat Little Place: A £30 voucherLoveweds; 2 x Sterling silver crystalpendant, chain with matching sterlingsilver crystal ear studs.Healthy & Wise: 2 x £10 Healthy & WisevouchersDanielle 2: 4 x £10 Danielle 2 GiftVouchers.Status: A Men’s tie of your choice. Apair of Bamboo socks.Purple: £25 Purple Voucher.The Vine Leaves: £20 Voucher for 2people for Breakfast or LunchListers: A Designer CushionMusical Images: Pioneer Micro SoundSystem worth £150Fullwoods: £10 voucher off any fullpriced item.Creature Comforts: 2 x £10 vouchersSabrina: Gel Nails plus Wash & blowdryHow to enter: Fill in an entry form at any of the above participating retailers.Draw dates: Nov 28; Dec 5; Dec 12; Dec19.

Supported by

Keep in touch with what’s going on in the Harpenden High Street this Christmas.

Retailers will be posting news on their offers...gifts for Christmas and other exciting information.

Details of the FREE PRIZE DRAW each week will be announced

Christmas events will be announced

You can find out more on facebook. Log on today...

then CLICK ‘LIKE’ to help spread the word AND KEEP POSTED

www.facebook.com/HarpendenShopping

Every year, the switching on of the Christmas lights heralds the countdown to Christmas, and this year is no exception! So whatever the weather we hope you will join in the fun on Sunday, 23rd November 2014.

The 2014 event starts at 12.00 with the monthly Farmers Market, giving a wonderful opportunity to purchase Christmas presents or home-made Christmas fare for loved ones. Most of the local High Street shops will be open during the day, and all the local cafes and restaurants will serve delicious food and drink making sure you have a great day out.

The Colts will be running a ‘Beat the Keeper’ event from 12.00 noon where anyone proud of their goal scoring prowess will have chance to put one past a Colts goalie. The highlight of any keen footballers day will be the chance to ‘Score a Shot’ from Jack Wilshere, the Arsenal and England midfielder.

During the afternoon, there will be a programme of entertainment on the stage from 1.00pm to 6.00pm. Enjoy the Carnival atmosphere with small scale fairground rides, a bouncy castle for the kids and music from the stage. There is even a chance that Father Christmas will make an appearance at Santa’s Grotto in Thompsons Close. The highlight of the day will be the Celebrity Cruises Christmas Carnival Procession, with majorettes, a brass band, local Brownies and Cadets and lots of local groups helping put

everyone into the Christmas spirit as they process down the High Street led by Father Christmas.

The “Switch on” at 5.00pm from the Stage on Church Green, will be carried out by the Town Mayor Councillor Mary Maynard and the winner of the Mayor’s Christmas Poster Competition.

Organised by Harpenden Town Council the event has attracted up to 10,000 people, and this year’s is bound to be bigger and better than ever before.

So make it a date and we’ll see you there. For further information please contact Alexandra Baron - Event Officer at Harpenden Town Council on 01582 463668 alexandra.baron@harpenden.gov.uk

Come and join Harpenden’s Christmas Carnival on Sunday Nov 23

With the build up to the festive season only weeks away, Harpenden’s only new car dealership, Brayley Kia and Mazda, has put together some tips for motorists, to help

prepare them for the darker months.

According to James Darby, Brayley’s Service Manager, booking your car in for its regular service, particularly at this time of year, will not only improve its reliability, safety and environmental performance but also significantly protect its re-sale or trade-in value:

“A vehicle’s service history is important not only for the reliability and safety aspects but also its potential trade-in or resale value. The absence of a service history may

reduce this by £500 or more.”

.

Remember car service as well as carol service

!

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Article concludes...Brayley’s tips for winter – remember ‘BESTFEB’

BATTERYAs good as modern car batteries are, they do suffer at this time of year, particularly in cars that do short journeys on cold mornings. Conserve power by switching off auxiliaries such as lights, wipers, radio and air-con/heater before turning your engine off. This allows extra charge to run into the battery. Use a car battery charger to check your battery's condition. ENGINEDepress the clutch when starting a cold engine, as this disconnects the engine from the gearbox so there's less drag. Check the coolant reservoir under the bonnet once a week or before long journeys. If the level is below the minimum mark, top up with a 50/50 mixture of water and anti-freeze.SCREEN wash and glassAlways use a proper additive at the right concentration. Never use washing up liquid as it clogs the jets and freezes almost as fast as water. An old sheet, secured by the doors and wipers makes a perfect deterrent against overnight ice. Never use a kettle to defrost car glass. Boiling water can crack a windscreen and will just refreeze as it cools, either on the screen or on the ground where you're standing.Use the air conditioning to clear the screen and keep it de-misted, it’s not just for hot weather.TYRESThe minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm, but at least 3mm will provide better grip in wet and icy conditions. Check tyre pressures when they’re cold and inspect regularly for any bulges, cracks and objects stuck in the tread. Always inflate to the recommended pressure for the vehicle. Details can be found in the handbook.FUELTry not to run your fuel tank right down in the cold months as you never know when you might get caught up in difficult driving conditions and traffic jams. At least you'll be able to run the engine and keep warm if kept stationery for a while.

EQUIPMENTCarrying a few items in your car could come in handy in the event of a breakdown. These include:Scraper and de-icerWarning triangleFirst aid kitReflective hi-visibility jacketCoat and glovesBootsJump leadsChocolate and a bottle of fresh waterMobile phone and in-car charger Tow rope and shovelBlanketBODYWORKWash your car more frequently this time of year to get rid of road salt. Check for stone chips as rust forms very quickly in cold, damp weather. A squirt of WD40 or similar spray in the door locks will stop them freezing.Brayleys  17 Luton Rd, Harpenden, AL5 2UA Phone:01582 464100www.brayleys.co.uk

“I can recommend Brayleys for car servicing” says Ron Taylor, Editor of Harpendia.

“Having used other local garages in recent years I decided to try Brayleys when my BMW needed an 80,000 mile service. Booking in over the phone was easy and when I arrived at Service Reception I was greeted with a big smile, then the offer of coffee whilst they checked me in. Three hours later I received a call telling me the car was ready. Not only had the service been completed on time but my car had been washed and valeted as well. I waited in reception and read the papers whilst the payment went through. All in the comfort of their reception lounge with a TV. Absolutely no comparison with other local garages. I’ll be booking another service soon.”

BRAYLEY MAZDA17 Luton Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2UA01582 447361 www.brayley-mazda.co.uk

BRAYLEY KIA17 Luton Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2UA01582 447361 www.brayley-kia.co.uk

Brayley

Sales - Service - PartsCall now or visit us online at

www.brayleys.co.uk

BRAYLEY HONDA ST ALBANSLyon Way, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0LQCall: 01727 722000 or visit www.brayleys.co.uk

BRAYLEY HONDA HEMEL HEMPSTEADTwo Waters Road, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP3 9BXCall: 01442 233455 or visit www.brayleys.co.uk

Harpenden's Byker Grove - Youth Connexions Making a Difference.By Amanda Thomas

The lament of many young people in Harpenden is that there is nowhere to go. Yet for those who hang around outside Sainsbury's or under the tree by the library, they are within a stone's throw of one of Harpenden's best kept secrets. Many, however, do realise that the Youth Connexions sign above a doorway next to the library is the entrance to the new Youth Drop-In Centre, which is about to celebrate its first anniversary.

The centre is open on Mondays, Thursdays and Friday from 3.30 pm to 6.30 pm and then from 7.00 pm to 10.00 pm; soon it will be open at the weekends as well. It is manned by Phil Francis and the place is overseen by youth worker Robert Brown. I met Robert at the centre to find out more.

Youth Connections (www.youthconnexions-hertfordshire.org) is a lifeline for young people between the ages of 13 and 19. It offers advice and support on almost anything and also helps

with careers guidance and youth work such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and the National Citizen Service. Most students will have heard of Youth Connexions as it is a prominent presence in Hertfordshire schools and Robert even drives a snazzy bus around on his mission to spread the word about the support Youth Connexions can give young people at this confusing stage in their lives.

"It's all about being positive, and not negative," Robert stressed. "The challenge is to ensure we are providing activities that the young people want to do and not their parents." In fact when a parent arrives at the centre to pick their offspring up at the end of a session, Robert ensures that they wait downstairs. "This is their space." It is quite an extraordinary area, too. Set in what was once the storage area for Argos, the centre comprises a huge communal area, including a dance studio, cafe, computer suite with free internet access, activity area with pool table, and a kitchen. There is also a multi-purpose room where the Youth Town Council holds meetings, but which can just as easily become a film room. There is also a smaller interview room and plenty of toilets.

Robert emphasised that one of his main tasks as a youth worker is to listen and not judge. He is swift to nip problems in the bud and to notice when conflict arises. If he notices friction and perceives an issue then he may even organise a relationships session, to teach young people about appropriate behaviour. Other workshops also take place and can include first aid, Article continues on next page...

Article concludes...emotional wellbeing, smoking, Aids, but also local democracy. The last Local Democracy Week took place between 13 and 19th October. This is always an important time for Robert as it is an opportunity to raise the importance of the voice young people have in Harpenden.

Robert's other passion is National Citizen Service. This is now part of the secondary school curriculum and Youth Connexions provides many opportunities to help with community projects. Robert is keen to make this experience as fulfilling as possible but he is also aware that any engagement in public service is extremely useful for young people applying to university. Robert organises all sorts of activities and one of those which sticks out most in his mind was the work one of the groups recently undertook with the St Albans homeless charity, Open Door. "Despite the fact this is an affluent area, there is enormous depravation here," Robert explained. He went on to describe how the group of volunteers set themselves up in Morrisons in St Albans, organising a display and talking to shoppers as they arrived at the supermarket. The group received trolley after trolley full of food donations, which covered the entire floor surface of the Drop-In Centre when they brought everything back to Harpenden. All the food was then donated to Open Door where volunteers were able to meet and talk to homeless people. "They made a difference," Robert added.

In October half term 40 more young people from Year 12 will be attended the centre for National Citizens Service. At the time of our interview, this had not yet taken place and Robert was not able to divulge exactly what

they would be doing, but in the past activities have included visits to the extreme sports facility, XC, at Jarman Park in Hemel Hempstead and the Herts Young Mariners Base. Here groups can experience caving, canoeing, potholing and even white water rafting as it is close to the Olympic Park facility. "It's all about team building."

Robert has been a youth worker for around 20 years. He grew up in South London where he first experienced the benefits of helping others by volunteering when he was at school. He now works across the St Albans area, and not just in Harpenden. "I go all over the place," he laughed, adding, "I spend a lot of time driving a bus and listening to rock music!" He clearly loves the job and sees the future as a challenge. "The world is changing, but the main thing is to make sure that what we do benefits young people - and the local community."

Most jewellery shops in Harpenden are very traditional and boringly the same.Not so at Loveweds!

Mitchell Barres, the owner is younger and full of new ideas to help in your search for something that will be really different whether it’s a wedding band, an engagement or eternity ring or even ear rings, bracelets and watches.

Mitchel likes to spend time with his customers, getting to know them so he can assess their personality to ensure the jewellery fits more than just their finger. You can sit and enjoy a coffee or two whilst looking at samples and discussing the designs.

At Loveweds you can even have your own concept converted into the finished product in the Hatton Garden jewellery quarter by specialist craftsmen.

BelowStud earings from Diamond Geezers. Get your man to join the celebrity set with a pair of diamond stud earings or maybe just one for starters from just £200 a pair. A Christmas present he’ll never forget.

All I want for Christmas is... By Ron Taylor

“Time for a cup of coffee?I’d love to show you what Loveweds can offer so why not pop in for a coffee with me Mitchel Barres.” Loveweds’ owner.

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Article concludes...

White gold for a Christmas Wedding. There’s still time to have the rings you’ve always dreamed of!

Loveweds Jewellers69c High Street, Harpenden. AL5 2SL. T. 01582 761866. M. 079 5633 4262

Christmas Stocking Filler

Sterling silver crystal pendant, chain with

matching sterling silver crystal ear studs.Normal price £50.

Christmas Special ONLY £20

Make a resolution to make a New Years Eve proposal with an extra special engagement ring for your loved one.

Whatever you want...Make it happen and contact Mitchel soon.

You will have no doubt seen in the news over the last few months the next set of pension reforms that are due to take place from 6th April 2015.

When George Osborne initially announced these changes to the UK defined contribution pension system in his budget speech earlier in the year they were described by commentators as the most far reaching reform to the taxation of pensions since the regime started in 1921, the year before my father in law who is still a pensioner was born!

By removing the effective requirement to buy an annuity which will be introduced from April 2015, people will have greater flexibility and choice about how they can access their pensions. Those who want to guarantee a regular income for life will still be able to purchase an annuity. The changes affect those over 55 who have savings in a defined contribution (DC) pension scheme, such as a personal pension. In a DC scheme, the pension depends on the amount of money you, and perhaps your employer, have saved in the scheme.

The position for those in defined benefit (DB) – or final salary – pensions is unlikely to change, although there may be a restriction preventing people in public service pension schemes from transferring into a DC scheme.

What does all that really mean? As the Chancellor said in October people will be able to use their pension pots “like bank accounts”, dipping in whenever they need some income. Of course as it is treated as income, with the exception of the first 25% of each withdrawal, it will be taxed at each individual’s marginal tax rate.

Much has been made in the press that people will take their life savings and spend it on a Lamborghini and certainly there is research available that suggests that 200,000 people will “blow their pensions” next year and 500,000 intend to use it to repay their mortgages. Well it is their money and why shouldn’t they be allowed to do want they want with it say many people?

To counter that, research by one of the large insurance companies suggests that while some people may opt to take their pensions and put it in their bank account, this is likely to make sense only for those with the smallest pension pots and their research indicated the majority of people still want a guaranteed income.

Which all suggests to me that you will get the answer that you want if you ask the question in the right way! In some respects the whole change raises as much a moral as a financial question, can we be trusted not to blow our pension and then expect to fall back on hand outs from the government when our money runs out?

I believe we can be trusted, however, we do need to have all the facts at hand when making decisions that will impact the rest of our lives. Consequently, seeking expert advice from Allan Brown, one of Hertfordshire’s top pensions’ practitioners here at Lyndhurst, will ensure you enjoy a retirement that you can afford.

Lyndhurst Financial Management Ltd.Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Pension’s reform By Geoff Newman.( below) Director. Lyndhurst Financial Management Ltd.

A team of British Servicemen from 20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps. and Harpenden based children’s charity The A-T Society are celebrating the launch of their first charity Calendar. The charity, which supports children and young adults devastated by the disabling and life shortening condition Ataxia-Telangiectasia (A-T) hopes the bright and beautiful calendar will raise awareness of A-T and valuable funds for research towards a cure.

Charity CEO William Davis said “This calendar goes to the heart of the British Army’s aim to “Be the Best”.  These soldiers gave their free time, their skills and their energy to help children and young adults living with a devastating disabling condition. People have huge respect for the army and it gave the children a real lift to be interacting with soldiers in uniform. This is an incredibly positive reflection on both the soldiers and the Army’s work within the community.  It will make a lasting difference for people with A-T and we thank everyone who enabled the creation of this calendar.”

The resulting calendar is a gorgeous moment in time designed to make you smile.  The soldiers would love the calendar to ‘go viral’ and ask you to help it do so. You can find out more about the calendar and purchase your copy at: www.atsociety.org.uk/products

Cricket in Harpenden will be a whole lot better if the proposed new building receives planning approval in early 2015.

Harpenden Cricket Club which is celebrated its 150th Anniversary in 2013 is now more popular that ever and wanted to encourage continued support from players and local residents by building a new home worthy of the club.

The new look will provide players with fully equipped changing rooms and facilities, plus a new catering section for both players and the public.

Cafe on the CommonThe cafe/restaurant will be open on match days during the April - August cricket season. But that’s only the start ... it is also planned to be open during the rest of the year for both public use and private hire.

What a fabulous place to eat lunch or dinner looking out across Harpenden Common.

There will be space for 50 upstairs and 120 downstairs.

Local supportMany local councillors have already offered their support as have community groups including the Scouts and other sporting organisations.

Geoff Newman, the Cricket Club President said, “One of our objectives is to provide an architecturally well designed community facility that fits naturally into the Common landscape.”

The Planning application is due to be heard.....Details will be announced soon

New Cricket pavilion planned for Harpenden Common

The ‘magic’ of Photosynthesis by Ron Taylor. Editor

Q. Where does the oxygen we breathe originate. A. PlantsWe humans breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, plants take in carbon dioxide and pump out oxygen. A process which sustains life on earth--animals eat plants or other animals and humans eat animals or plants. Thanks to the energy of sunlight, photosynthesis and chlorophyll plants are able to synthesise energy rich foods to eat and oxygen to breath. It sounds simple but it is highly complex process.It is also highly inefficient as the percentage of light energy converted into sugars by most plants is only 1%. So what can be done to improve the situation and help increase the yields of the plant kingdom?

A visit to the labs at Rothamsted ResearchThe scientists at Rothamsted Research are now working on a project to develop more efficient photosynthesis. Professor Jackie Hunter, BBSRC Chief Executive, commented: "Photosynthesis is the basis for almost all life on Earth, yet it has the potential to use the sun's energy so much more efficiently. There is a great opportunity for improvement and this study and other research is working towards realising a potential that could benefit us in many diverse ways, from producing more food to fuels, materials, useful chemicals and much more."

Professor Martin Parry, lead scientist at Rothamsted Research, said: “We are truly excited about the findings of this study.”

i had a tour of the laboratories recently with Dr. Alessandro Occhialini to see the experiments with tobacco plants and how the complex process is monitored, tested and analysed. “I was thrilled to see that these tobacco lines were photosynthetically competent and that the faster cyanobacterial enzyme was active in plant tissue.These engineered plants represent a very important step towards the improvement of plant photosynthetic performance.”

For more info; A faster Rubisco with potential to increase photosyntheis in crops. Nature, 17 September 2014http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/nature13776 & For more information about BBSRC, our science and our impact see: www.bbsrc.ac.uk

Dr. Alessandro Occhialini at work in the Rothamsted labs. Above top. Tobacco plants growing under artificial light.Above and right. Data analysis inc the use of high powered microscopes.

THE Venue in Harpenden with more to offer By Ron Taylor

Aldwickbury’s unique setting in acres of parkland golf sets the scene that you and your guests will never forget. Combined with the recently extended function facility they can now handle conferences, meetings, private dinners, award presentations and weddings of up to 200 seated guests with confidence. Ample car parking is available.

They can help you create an event to remember, providing immaculate service and menus designed with the best of local produce, all within your agreed budget.

Meeting the needs of the local communityWith the demise of Harpenden’s two hotels there are scant places for local business and community groups to hold meetings. NOT ANY MORE! Harpenden Rotary, Probus groups, Harpenden Lions, Harpenden BNI and Inner Wheel use the facilities on a regular basis for both small and large groups.

A Wedding Day to rememberWhether you want a small intimate group or a large gathering, Aldwickbury with its idyllic setting will give you a day to remember. They are now licensed to hold civil wedding ceremonies, partnerships and renewal of vows ceremonies in the Fenwick-Ames Suite. “We recently held our Wedding Reception at Aldwickbury Golf Club in the newly opened suite. We could not have been happier with the venue, which is beautiful and the gorgeous views across the golf course provided a wonderful back drop to our day. All our guests commented on how great the food was and the fantastic choice of venue. A special thanks to Liz, who organised the whole event and could not have been more helpful and the rest of the team who ensured that everything went smoothly on the day and were very friendly, helpful and professional. We would not hesitate to recommend Aldwickbury to anyone looking for a lovely venue for any occasion. Thank you Aldwickbury, we will treasure the memories of our day.”

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A major Conference CentreThe Fenwick-Ames Suite with its own bar and terrace is large enough for conferences up to 250 guests. There are full A/V facilities and technical support to ensure all runs smoothly on the day. The St. Albans Chamber of Commerce held their annual conference there recently and were extremely satisfied.

Food and DrinkWhether you require a 5 course menu for 20 private guests, a Wedding Breakfast for 200, a simple lunch or just afternoon tea, our experienced team headed by our talented Head Chef will exceed your expectations.

Friendly ServiceOur Events team will look after you from the first moment of contact ensuring all your needs are satisfied and working within your budget.

We want to hear from you.Please call 01582 760112, email info@aldwickburyparkgolfclub.co.ukOr go to aldwickburyparkgolfclub.co.uk

Aldwickbury Park Golf Club is part of Burhill Group Ltd. Privately owned by members of the Guinness Family Burhill Group Limited (BGL), formerly Burhill Estates Company Limited,  was founded in 1926 to manage the estates of the then Lord Iveagh. It has established three divisions: Golf; Leisure and Estates. It is a well-respected business within the golfing community.

Who needs Hotels in Harpenden?

Welcome to harpendenhouse.com, whether you need a place to stay whilst you’re on business, a leisure trip or you need a comfortable home from home whilst relocating, moving house or havingrenovations undertaken, our serviced apartments are a great choice. 

With a number of serviced apartments located in the heart of Harpenden, we are the ideal alternative to a small hotel room and with the centre of London only a 20 minute train ride away, we are theperfect location to explore London and Hertfordshire. 

Our apartments are available for short or long-term stays and are tastefully furnished in a contemporary style offering a comfortable home environment keeping you relaxed when away on business or pleasure. 

Our commitment is to provide our guests with an exceptional stay and offer a unique quality experience in our fully serviced apartments. www.harpendenhouse.cominfor@harpendenhouse.comTel - 01582 761642 

Both Harpenden hotels are now closed with no sign of even one new hotel being developed, leaving a feeling of ‘loss’ amongst many residents. Like all commerce the hotel business is evolving with the decline of the traditional model being replaced with options demanded by the market. It would seem that no market exists in Harpenden. That hasn’t stopped entrepreneurial businesses filling the gaps for ‘hotel services. Aldwickbury Golf Club have completed a major expansion and now offer full conference /event facilities for up to 200 guests. What about accommodation? If you travel to many cities around the UK you will find dozens of SERVICE APARTMENTS which offer all the comforts of a hotel at rates to match. If you know of anyone wanting to stay in Harpenden then they can now stay at a Service Apartment. Find out more in the article below. Ron Taylor. Editor

NEW money saving voucher scheme for HarpendenIn the USA discount vouchers have for decades been a prerequisite of consumer marketing, if you wanted to get your product or service to market a money off coupon was the way to get this done. Americans love discount vouchers and now the same is happening in the UK.

Over the last 30 or 40 years many organisations have tried some succeeded but many failed to bring discount voucher marketing to consumers in the uk. The problem has always been UK consumer scepticism. Unless the voucher had outstanding value or it was from a major brand they were normally shunned by a wary public who often felt shy of producing a piece of paper at the point of purchase to get their money off or saving. The big supermarkets have succeeded over the years getting in store offers into the hands of shoppers as they enter the store or through the post to loyal customers but generally other smaller retailers and service providers failed to get UK consumers to engage with discount vouchers. Now however computers, mobiles tablets and the internet has changed all that. Searching for money off coupons is easy, straightforward and perhaps even deriguir almost half way though through the 2nd decade of the 21st century.

Now some big name discount voucher websites e.g. Voucher codes, ..........(insert 1 or more other names here) and the like are making offer codes and printable vouchers something to be sought after. However these are mostly based on offers from supermarkets and multiple chains there is no opportunity for smaller local retailer or business to get involved.

However now this is changing - from the people who brought you Dor-2-Dor the UK's number one leaflet distribution network, D2D-Print the high quality guaranteed turnaround time print service and Dor-Dropz the local cooperative flyer now available in many parts of the uk comes Saverplaces - the Place for Local Vouchers. Jeff Frankling the founder of Saverplaces said this new marketing opportunity for local businesses initially launching in Harpenden, Hertfordshire is to be rolled out rapidly

across the UK offers local businesses a unique way for them to win new clients via a medium that they can easily monitor its effectiveness. The new Saverplaces internet portal has been designed for ease of use by both consumers and local businesses alike by Jeff's son William Frankling. Saverplaces enables local businesses to post their latest offers for a small charge and consumers to download them freely before visiting a local restaurant or hiring a cleaning company. Jeff Frankling added that whilst some aspects of this new opportunity may not be entirely new we are a highly successful franchise operator (Dor-2-Dor) and utilising this vast expertise will give us the edge in rapidly building a nationwide network, so whether the consumer is in Harpenden or Harrogate they will be able to get the best deals before making a purchase. All in  it's an exciting development for us and with the internet a seemingly boundless place for businesses to operate and following on from our success with channel letterbox we are now utilising our expertise to build channel Saverplaces.saverplaces.co.uk.

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Do you live or work in West Herts and not know where to turn in asking for help and advice? Perhaps you or someone you know feels anxious or vulnerable and needs someone to help on your or their behalf?

As the county’s leading charity for unpaid carers we know that busy GPs, community nurses and social workers can’t always provide you with the information you may need. Sometimes information may only be available online or via the phone at times of day that are not convenient to you.

That is where Community Navigators come in. Navigators are skilled at finding solutions to problems. They will meet with you to discuss your needs and help you to access voluntary sector support as well as health and care services in your area. This will also take the strain off carers looking after the vulnerable as well as carers who may feel isolated in their caring role and unable to access the support they may need for themselves.

Carers in Hertfordshire is delighted to be part of this exciting project funded by Hertfordshire County Council and NHS Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group. We are providing the service in the St Albans area and it will also be available in Dacorum, Hertsmere, Three Rivers and Watford districts.

Andrew Mills, Chair of the Trustee Board at Carers in Hertfordshire, said: “I feel that the time is exactly right for the launch of the Community Navigators scheme in the county. Unpaid carers of family members or friends have been advised and supported by our charity for almost 20 years and our work will continue to be enhanced through the development of such community initiatives. It’s a real privilege for us to have been appointed as the host for the St Albans District – and I say this both as a carer and as a resident of this district!”

Colette Wyatt-Lowe, Executive Member for Adult Care and Health at Herts County Council, said: “This project is a really exciting development.  Individual local groups and charities have a real power to help people.  This new partnership will give us all a better understanding of what community groups across the board offer to help people stay independent and well.”

The navigator service works alongside Herts Help which provides information and advice by telephone, Skype, email or post. Call 0300 123 4044. For more information on the Community Navigator project or Carers in Hertfordshire’s services visit www.carersinherts.org.uk or call 01992 58 69 69.

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Community navigators: here to help

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Did you know …3 in 5 people will be a carer at some point in their life?1 in 3 carers will have to give up work to meet the demands of caring?This unpaid care saves the NHS billions of pounds a year?But this care comes at a cost to the unpaid family carer - physically, emotionally and financially. And that is where we can help.Carers in Hertfordshire is the leading countywide charity for unpaid carers looking after a friend, neighbour or relative due to illness, frailty, mental health need, disability or substance misuse. We support all carers, from children as young as eight upwards, either living or working in Hertfordshire. Carers do not have to live with the person they are looking after to receive help and advice. All our services are free.

The charity was formed in 1995 by carers for carers to give advice, information and support. It is our mission to make carers count by giving them a powerful voice in society and choice in their caring role. The majority of our staff and trustees are carers and understand the demands of caring.

How can we help?Our team of Carers Support Advisors help carers to plan their caring role and access our free services.

We enable carers to take better care of themselves through breaks, leisure and learning opportunities and by ensuring they focus on their own health and well-being.

We give carers training, confidence and a platform to influence decision-makers resulting in positive changes for all carers across the county.

Our Young Carers’ Service works with children and young adults up to the age of 18 and their families to ensure they are receiving the support they need and their voices are heard.

How can you help?We currently support just over 15,000 carers across Hertfordshire, a 23% increase in the last 12 months, but there is a lot more work we can do as there are estimated to be over 110,000 unpaid carers in the county, according to the latest figures. To find out more about volunteering, fundraising or how to make a donation, visit our website www.carersinherts.org.uk or call 01992 58 69 69. Why get involved? Because unpaid carers count.

The Red House, 119 Fore Street, Hertford, SG14 1AX. T: 01992 58 69 69 contact@carersinherts.org.uk www.carersinherts.org.uk Company Limited by Guarantee. Registration number 4131036 (England and Wales)

Making Carers count

Coming in 2015Harpendia Spring Edition

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