Living Magazines - Berkhamsted Summer 2023

FROM PILGRIMS TO PARTY-GOERS

If the walls at Ashridge could talk, they’d have many tales to tell…

THE HISTORY OF THE WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

We chart the rapid evolution of one of football’s most loved competitions

SALAD DAYS

Plant your own salad vegetables to enjoy over the warmer months

Welcome to the Summer issue!

As this magazine arrives through your letterbox the local Coronation events will be a happy memory - but hopefully the sense of community they created will linger...

There’s plenty more to look forward to this summer - see our local focus and round-up of local events and days out in our What’s On section for some ideas to keep you and the family entertained over the next few months.

Plus there’s a chance to win a meal at Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen and Garden in Berkhamsted or a family alpaca amble at Park Hill Farm in Tring.

Our garden feature focuses on growing easy salads - perfect for a summertime supperand we’ve rounded up 13 easy ways to help you stay sustainable. Our walk explores Ashley Green and Hockeridge Wood. If you’re out in the countryside, look out for some of

the area’s stunning butterflies, like the Green Hairstreak featured on our cover. Visit the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust for more details on local butterflies.

If you have summer birthdays to buy for, take a look at ‘shop local’ for ideas - our local retailers will appreciate your support, we’re sure.

As always, the magazine includes lots of local news, while our local history feature focuses on the fascinating 800-year tale of Ashridge House.

If you want to be involved in the next issue, please email Naomi at editorial@livingmags. info with your news prior to our autumn issue.

Happy reading!

Free summer kids’ activities

Berkhamsted Town Council is planning a programme of free children’s events, which will run one day a week for six weeks in the summer holidays. These events will be funded from the proceeds of the Coronation raffle and will be aimed towards primary school children aged five-plus. Details of the events and how to book will be announced in June but will include a reptile event, craft day and magician/entertainer. Keep an eye on social media and www. berkhamstedtowncouncil.gov.uk for updates.

Get gardening for nature and win!

Berkhamsted Town Council is inviting local residents to get involved in the Berkhamsted Gardens For Nature Competition.

Encourage nature into your front garden, doorstep, window box or communal area for your chance to win a £50 Capital Gardens Gift Voucher.

Open to any front garden, doorstep, window box or communal area on view from the pavement or road. The judging panel from Berkhamsted Town Council, Transition Town and the local Wildlife Trust will award points for: encouraging wildlife; incorporating plants to attract wildlife; sustainability – water and waste re-use; and best use of space.

A £50 Capital Gardens HTA gift voucher will be awarded in the Castle, West and East Wards and in the community garden category.

Closing date 30 June. Gardens will be judged between Monday 3 July and Friday 14 July.

To enter, email your name and address to projectofficer@berkhamstedtowncouncil. gov.uk or call 01442 800146.

Visit www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk/ wildlife-gardening for ideas on how to incorporate nature and encourage wildlife into your garden.

Congratulations to Berkhamsted’s Returned to Glory, which has been nominated in the Muddy Stiletto Awards, in the Best Sustainable Shop in Herts and Beds category.

Hector’s Talking Group launches

the world is currently throwing at you. It’s said a problem shared is a problem halved, and that’s really our aim. To have you leaving the group carrying less than when you came in.’

The group meets for an hour at The XC Centre, Jarman Way, Hemel Hempstead every first and third Wednesday of the month from 7.30pm.

If you are interested, fill in the form at https://tinyurl.com/5n8c6p3v and the group will get in touch.

Mental health support charity Hector’s House is introducing a new group, to help men come together and talk.

Hec-Talk Group is, says the charity, ‘a place free of judgement, and free of any pressure to ‘fix’. Simply turn up, listen up, and if you want to, open up. You’ll soon realise that you’re not alone in going through whatever stress and anxiety

Also running is HGMC (Hector’s GentleMan’s Club), a monthly event that includes an activity, and some time to talk about anything and everything on anyone’s mind. So far, there have been walks, a tour of Tring Brewery and a climbing session at The XC.

Find out more at https://hectorshouse.org. uk/hectors-gentle-mans-club

A monstrous read for kids!

ABerkhamsted author has published his first children’s book - The Monster of Gubblecote - with all proceeds going to charity.

Stephen Robinson promised he would write a book for his two daughters, inspired by a weekly family tradition of passing by the village of Gubblecote and marvelling at its unique name.

He said: ‘My promise to my daughters has been fulfilled, and I couldn’t be happier to share this story with you.

‘As a newcomer to the world of writing, I have created a story that I would personally love to read. I wanted to make sure it was full of adventure! I worked hard to create a story that would be both captivating and enjoyable for kids to listen to or read.’

Proceeds will go to PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide, a charity that is close to Stephen’s heart.

The book, which is both written and beautifully illustrated by Stephen, can be ordered on Amazon, and the author says he is keen start on the next one!

Kitcheners Bowls Club scores 100!

business, well-known for producing chemical sheep dips.

As part of the celebrations, the club will be running an invitation-only open triples gala on 10 June.

A Centenary Match will be held on 1 July, when other clubs will be invited to join in the celebration.

When Coopers was taken over by The Wellcome Foundation, the club changed its name to Wellcome. It was then sold to Roussel Uclef in 1993. It had another change of name in 1996 when it was taken over by Agrevo, which closed the site down.

Kitcheners Bowls Club celebrates 100 years of bowling in Berkhamsted this year.

The club was formed in 1923 under the name of Coopers. It was one of many industrial clubs in the area, and named after Cooper

McDougall & Robertson Ltd - a local veterinary

The members then leased the bowling green from Berkhamsted School and decided to call the club Kitcheners after the playing field in 1998.

The club’s most accomplished member so far is Fred Winfield, who played for England in 1953.

If anyone is interested in playing bowls they can email brian.rumph@btinternet.com.

Berkhamsted unwrapped for open days

The town’s popular Heritage Open Days are back for 2023.

Presented by Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society, the annual talk and walks will run from 8-17 September.

The theme for this year’s event is Berkhamsted Creativity Unwrapped. Discover the creative heritage of our town and join in the free tours, walks and activities that will open up its creative past and present. Discover Berkhamsted’s authors, actors, architecture plus poets, painters, musicians, and dancers.

Most of the usual tours will be available with a creative twist, plus some interesting and exciting new ones. Including:

• A Walk Back in Time - a guided tour of Berkhamsted’s historic town centre

• The Lost Wharves of Berkhamsted

• St Peter’s Church with beautifully crafted stained-glass windows and the timber-framed Court House

• Berkhamsted Foundling Hospital

• Amersfort - a fine Arts and Craft Garden

• Clay tile workshop in St Peter’s church.

Free tickets are available via Eventbriteall places must be booked beforehand. Watch out for further events and details coming soon.

Stringer Mann teaches good finance habits

Robert Stringer and Ed Evans of Stringer Mann Chartered Financial Planners recently completed a series of free, fun and engaging financial education workshops for Year 9 students at Berkhamsted School, to help them build brighter financial futures.

Aimed at children aged 13-14, the workshops, called Your Future, were interactive and highenergy, incorporating strategic game play and discussion-based learning. The young people learned about risk and reward, saving, banking, budgeting, borrowing, lending and more.

Robert Stringer, partner of the Berkhamstedbased firm and founder of Hector’s House, a suicide prevention and mental health

awareness charity for young people, said: ‘It’s reported that 96% of British teenagers worry about money daily. And we know now that money habits can begin to form in children as young as seven, so the younger we start educating them the better – not only for their financial futures but for their mental health as well.’

Sarah Gledhill, head of sociology & head of personal development at Berkhamsted School, commented: ‘We recognise the role that effective financial education can play in overall wellbeing and feel that these sessions have been a valuable addition to our personal development curriculum this year.’

Get in the swing and sing!

The next concert will be held on Saturday 2 September, again at St Peter’s, and will include Mozart’s Missa Brevis and other choral classics.

Rehearsals are held at 8pm every Tuesday evening at Swing Gate Infants School. No experience is necessary - just a love of music and an interest in singing – no audition necessary. See www.berkhamstedchoral.com or email berkhamstedcssecretary@gmail.com.

Following on from the success of its spring concert, Berkhamsted Choral Society is inviting new members to join the throng. The choir performs three concerts a year and goes on an annual tour - this year it’s in France. An audience of around 240 enjoyed the last concert at St Peter’s Church, which was supported by members of the English Philharmonia.

NEWS IN BRIEF

You may remember we published an article in the Spring edition about Sarah Marshall’s attempt to retain her bowls World Champion title. Well, she did it! Sarah won the B2 Category for bowlers with limited sight. A great achievement we’re sure you’ll agree!

The DENS Castle Walk returns LOCAL

Whether you’re a serious stepper or a roving rambler, there’s something for everyone with a choice of two, five and 10-mile routes.

Take in the beautiful Chiltern countryside and picturesque villages, while showing your support for DENS to rebuild the lives of vulnerable people in the community.

Most people know DENS as the homeless charity for people in Dacorum, but it does much more than just provide a roof and a bed.

It’s the first port of call for people in Dacorum who are facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion; to support and empower them to take the next positive step in their lives, secure and maintain a long-term housing option and be an active member of their community.

Back by popular demand on Saturday 1 July, this charity walk event is the perfect summer’s day out for all members of the family, including four-legged friends.

The charity ensures individuals have access to temporary and short-term accommodation, emergency food and provisions.

Register now at www.dens.org.uk/walk

Everybody needs good neighbours

As part of its merger with Peace Hospice Care, Rennie Grove is bringing the Compassionate Neighbours project to Dacorum - and looking for new volunteers.

Compassionate Neighbours is an awardwinning social movement that sees volunteers matched with community members in their area, to offer friendship and emotional support to people who are lonely, ill or isolated due to lifelimiting illness or bereavement.

Fiona McGregor has been volunteering for two years. She says: ‘My first Community Member was isolated due to illness and didn’t have family living nearby. I visited her at home once a week to offer company and friendship. I feel we both gained so much from the friendship, and I am now looking forward to a similar relationship with my new local match.’

Compassionate Neighbours are asked to commit to around one hour per week to support a carefully matched Community Member, which could include visiting them at home for a chat, taking them out locally or simply sharing an activity together, such as a short walk.

Volunteers don’t need any kind of experience or relevant background, as full training and support is given.

To find out more about either accessing the support of a Compassionate Neighbour or offering your time, email compassion@ peacehospicecare.org.uk or call 01923 330 330

Ashridge Home Care celebrates award

Ashridge Home Care has been recognised at the annual Home Care Awards. Ashridge was shortlisted for three awards and won the Live-In Care expertise category. It was also shortlisted for Recruitment and Training and received Finalist recognition for its marketing efforts.

Newly appointed managing director Louise Joslin and care-coordinator Chloe Timberlake received the accolade at a celebratory lunch in Bickenhill’s National Conference Centre.

Company founder Trudi Scrivener said: ‘I have an amazing team of carers who look after their clients with the utmost attention to detail, making sure their life is fulfilled and all their needs are met. Everyone goes out of their way to ensure clients are happy, safe and living life to the full and it is a real pleasure to share this recognition with them!’ She continued: ‘Industry awards are brilliant recognition, but positive client feedback is second to none.’

fno i ecned

Investing can be daunting. Where’s the best place to put your savings? What level of risk are you willing to take? How might fluctuating markets affect your investment? And how can you monitor performance?

We understand. Which is why we aim to take the stress out of the process. At St. James’s Place, our distinctive approach to investment management calls on the expertise of some of the world’s leading fund managers. Which means healthy long-term investment performance is within your grasp. What’s more, being local means we’re here to help whenever you need us.

The value of an investment with SJP will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select, and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

LOCAL FOCUS

It’s showtime!

Ateam of six novice growers who all took up growing at Sunnyside Allotments, Berkhamsted, will be taking their garden design to RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival in July.

Their ‘Sunnyside of Life’ allotment garden aims to highlight the beauty of homegrown, seasonal flowers and promote sustainable floristry. By repurposing old vintage tools, galvanised tubs for rainwater collection and growing spaces, (like Cindy’s painted pink claw foot bath at her allotment!), and woodchip paths, they want to convey the importance of reusing and recycling and celebrate the rejuvenation that is felt by spending time outdoors focused on nature and the joy of a social, community space.

Having seen an instagram post inviting submissions for RHS Hampton Court Flower Show they decided to submit a design to highlight growing beautiful, often scented flowers on an allotment, which they use to create beautiful bouquets and arrangements for themselves, family and friends.

The group began growing at the allotments two years ago. Since then, friendships have bloomed through a shared love of flowers. They are all from different working backgrounds

(NHS nurse, home beauty salon owner, wedding planner and gardener, school admissions officer, event producer and volunteer at Returned to Glory) and all parts of the globe. Cindy is from South Africa and Puri is from Spain.

Along with seed sowing and growing, bunting is being made from fabric found in charity shops and they are gathering recycled and reused props. Independent shop Cook & Butler has loaned a beautiful, recycled greenhouse for the seedlings and pelargoniums at the show.

‘I am loving the opportunity to work with a fabulous group of ladies, passionate about flowers, sustainability, support of wildlife and recycling.Hampton Court is such a special event on the gardening calendar and I am thrilled to be able to tell my children and grandchildren one day that I was a part of it,’ said Cindy.

BOOKING DEADLINES 2023

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Ashlyns Festival returns for feast of family fun

and have fun but it also helps us fund some really important school resources – from transportation for sporting fixtures to specialist equipment for children with special educational needs. It also allows us to support our local charity partners who will be running activities for their own important causes,’ said ASA chair Gary Illingworth.

Ashlyns School and grounds are being transformed into a magical, fairy-light strewn festival playground for the Ashlyns Festival, which returns for familyfriendly fun in July.

Run by the Ashlyns School Association (ASA), with profits going directly back to the school, it promises to be even bigger and better than before with comedians fresh from the professional circuit, live music, an activity-filled FunZone, a fully licensed bar, a sizzling array of local food and the ever-popular Glow Up Tent.

The event usually attracts around 2,500 visitors. The festival gets off to a spicy start on Friday 14 July with a Comedy and Curry Night (for adults only) led by Paul Sinha, The Sinnerman. Curries come from Berkhamsted’s Fat Buddha restaurant.

Music takes centre stage on Saturday 15 July with live performances all day and into the night. There will be a range of games and activities on offer for youngsters - and the young at heart - in the new FunZone, and festival-goers will be encouraged to get their glitter on in the Glow Up Tent.

‘This joyful family event is not only an opportunity for the community to get together

He added: ‘The Festival Committee will also be working closely with Transition Town Berkhamsted to ensure the event will be as ‘green’ as possible. With around 2-3,000 visitors expected to come through Ashlyns’ gates, they will be supporting us on the day as litter pickers and advising us in the run up to the event on sustainability issues such as waste and recycling.’

Tickets from ashlynsfestival.co.uk. For sponsorship and pitch opportunities contact the ASA Ashlyns Festival Team at ashlynsfestival@gmail.com.

Herts ‘one of the top five safest places’

Hertfordshire has been officially recognised as one of the safest places to live in England and Wales.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire David Lloyd welcomed the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) which show the county has the fifth lowest overall crime rate.

Measured across 43 police force areas, Hertfordshire registered 63.3 crimes per 1,000 residents, which is two thirds of the average. It is the lowest in the Eastern region with Cambridge scoring 80.7, Essex 91 and Norfolk 75.7.

The highest regions in the country were Cleveland, West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester. The only places lower than Hertfordshire are Wiltshire, North Yorkshire, Devon and Cornwall and Surrey.

Mr Lloyd said: ‘Often the fear of crime is higher than the reality, so I welcome this report which shows Hertfordshire really is one of the safest places to live. We are outperforming our neighbouring areas and it is reassuring to see that the chances of residents in our county becoming a victim of crime are among the lowest in England and Wales.’

• Hertfordshire has, however, been revealed as one of the five places most susceptible to cybercrime in England and Wales.

A study by cyber security experts CloudTech24 analysed the latest data available from the

National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre to see which areas reported the highest levels of cybercrime for every 10,000 people.

It found that residents of the Greater Manchester area were most susceptible to cybercrime, with the Hertfordshire area in fifth place. In the past 13 months, there were 648 cybercrime reports or 5.42 reports per 10,000 people. Social media and email account hacking were the most common reports, followed by computer viruses or malware cases.

Clare joins the team

The combined Berkhamsted team of Emily Banks (physiotherapist), Karen Goddard (osteopath) and Samantha Chamberlain (pilates), has recently been joined by osteopath Clare Adams (pictured).

Emily Banks said: ‘We’re delighted to welcome Clare to our team. By combining her osteopathy and pilates training, she’ll add another dimension to what we offer. Branching out on your own can be a daunting experience, but we are thrilled to be supporting her through this transition; her clients new and old will be in safe hands.’

Herts Girl Guides launch police badge

I would like to congratulate Hertfordshire Constabulary for launching the Girlguiding Policing badge and thank them for being part of such a special day for Berkhamsted District. The girls had a brilliant time. We want to see more young women joining the police service and I think earning the Police Challenge Badge is a great step to help us in promoting policing careers to girls and young women

Around 100 Hertfordshire Girl Guides aged from five to 14 became the first in the county to earn the Girlguiding Policing Challenge Badge recently.

Catherine Roper, a long-serving Guide Leader for Girlguiding in Berkhamsted and the National Police Chief Council lead for Children and Young People, was joined by Hertfordshire police officers and staff with Rainbows, Brownies and Girl Guides at Thomas Corum School in Berkhamsted.

Together, they spent an afternoon undertaking a series of activities including a crime solving exercise; how to keep themselves safe; and understanding the vehicles and equipment used by frontline policing teams, including a drone demonstration from Hertfordshire’s Rural Operational Support Team.

Catherine Roper, who is now Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police, said: ‘I worked with Girlguiding UK to develop and launch the Girlguiding Policing Challenge Badge in London and the South-East in 2019 and have been encouraging the launch in other parts of the UK since. From a personal perspective I was so pleased to launch the badge in Hertfordshire, where I’ve been a Guide Leader for some years.

‘The Girlguiding Police Challenge Badge offered an ideal opportunity to get the local

Guiding units of all ages to think about the values of policing and public service.

‘I would like to congratulate Hertfordshire Constabulary for launching the Girlguiding Policing badge and thank them for being part of such a special day for Berkhamsted District. We want to see more young women joining the police service and I think earning the Police Challenge Badge is a great step to help us in promoting policing careers to girls and young women.’

Hertfordshire Chief Superintendent Nick Caveney was there with his seven-year-old daughter, who joined the Police Challenge. ‘Feedback from the day was great, my daughter learned about what the police do, had some fun with pieces of equipment and spoke to lots of officers. For Dacorum Safer Neighbourhood Team and our Rural Operational Support Team it was a great opportunity to give something back to the local community and to demonstrate what policing should be doing to build public confidence,’ he said.

Walk this way to volunteer

Anew summer programme of Hertfordshire Health Walks has started in Berkhamsted and Tring, and volunteers are needed!

The walks offer participants the chance to enjoy the local countryside and green spaces in trails led by qualified volunteer leaders. They can meet new people and enjoy the many health and well-being benefits walking provides. Walks are volunteer-led, friendly and local – everyone (aged 18 years and above) is welcome!

All walks are free and they are graded between 20-30 minutes (First Steps) and up to 90 minutes (Grade 4) unless otherwise stated, while Grade 4+ progression walks can last up to 2 hours.

To attend you can register at www. hertfordshire. gov.uk/ healthwalks or turn up 15 minutes before your first walk and complete a New Walker Form.

View the Berkhamsted timetable at https:// tinyurl.com/yrss6fvp.

If you are interested in volunteering, email healthwalks.cms@hertfordshire.gov.uk, call 01992 555 888 or visit the website.

Supportive child psychology

Recent data from the NHS has revealed that as of December 2022, the number of people waiting for an autism assessment has increased by 40%.

In Hertfordshire and surrounding counties, children may wait for one to three years for an autism assessment and even longer to receive the right support in school.

To address the growing waiting lists and lack of support for children with special educational needs, Your Way Psychology and Education has recently started supporting children and families in Tring, Berkhamsted, and surrounding villages by providing private autism assessments and

support services. Their approach mirrors that of NHS services but with a wait list of a few weeks and not years.

Autism may present itself in a number of ways, including difficulties with friendships, communication, adjusting behaviour to suit various social contexts, and picking up on social cues; restricted or repetitive behaviours; an unusually deep fascination in a topic or object, and being under or over-sensitive to sounds, lights, texture, and smells.

Receiving an autism diagnosis is just the first step in getting the right support in school. Your Way Psychology and Education help parents work with schools and find a way forward for their child to receive the necessary support.

Find out more at www.yourwaypsychology.co.uk

Alura

Bailey

PE

16 Belvoir non-alcoholic cocktails from £4.50

17 Creative Juices Brewery from £3.30

18 Chiltern ice cream £5.95

19 Goats of the Gorge products from £3.50

20 Home produced honey mustard and BBQ sauce £3.75

21 On Angel Wing cards £3.50

Puddingstone Distillery - Tring

22 Campfire Gin Gift Pack 3 x 10cl bottles £32

23 Canteen Honey Gin 70cl £39

Tring Brewery - Tring

24 Bionic Bull Coffee Roasters ‘House Blend

Whole Bean Coffee’ made with Ethiopian, Colombian and Brazilian varietals. 250g £12

25 Chiltern Cider Company ‘Black Lab Medium Dry Cider’ 6.5% ABV 500ml £3.50

26 Wye Valley Meadery ‘Pure Honey Mead’

‘Honey & Elderflower Mead’ ‘Honey & Rhubarb Mead’. 4.0% ABV, 330ml £3.25

Whilst we have made every effort to ensure these details are correct, you must confirm directly with the retailer.

Across Clues:

5. Food substance for spreading (9)

8. Lift your foot (4)

9. Currency, domestic transactions in China (8)

10. Scatter (7)

11. Notational symbols (5)

13. Significant (5)

15. Obvious (7)

18. A machine that controls another (8)

19. Town (4)

20. Decisive victory (9)

Down Clues:

1. Production (6)

2. Finished (7)

3. Period of time (5)

4. Obtain (6)

6. Speech (9)

7. Dislike intensely (9)

12. Total (7)

14. Relating to the eyes (6)

16. 10 years (6)

17. Musical composition for a solo instrument (5)

With thanks to Nigel Bradshaw for his assistance with this feature

From pilgrims to party-goers

Nigel Bradshaw has worked at Ashridge House for many years, and is an expert on its history. He says: ‘This was at a time when myths surrounding the Holy Grail were at their height - and in terms of fame and popularity, the phial was more important than the Shroud of Turin- it was a really big deal!’

It was also Edmund who created the deer park at Ashridge - the current deer on the estate are descendants of those original animals.

Today, Ashridge House is home to a restaurant, the Bakehouse cafe, and is well known for its Christmas lights display.

But 800 years ago, it was a favourite destination for a different kind of visitor. Ashridge’s history began with a holy relica phial of the blood of Christ is said to have been collected at the crucifixion.

In 1283, Edmund, Earl of Cornwall, (grandson of King John - of Robin Hood fame) founded a monastery at Ashridge in order to create a place of pilgrimage for a phial of the Sacred Blood of Jesus Christ that he had acquired while travelling in Germany.

The Priory was abolished during the dissolution of the monasteries, in order to allow Henry VIII to become head of the Church of England, and marry Anne Boleyn. Henry decided to keep the land as his own, thanks to the presence of the Ashridge deer. Although he did not spend much time there, his three legitimate children, Mary, Elizabeth, and Edward, lived at Ashridge on and off over the next few years.

It was to Ashridge that Elizabeth fled from her sister Queen Mary (Bloody Mary) who saw her as a threat to the throne - and it was there that Elizabeth was arrested and taken to the Tower of London on suspicion of treason. She never returned to the estate.

If the walls at Ashridge could talk, they’d have many tales to tell - having witnessed visitors and residents include Elizabeth I, Winston Churchill and even Oscar Wilde

After her death the house was bought by Lord Chancellor Thomas Egerton and it stayed in the family for generations. One of the descendants was Francis Egerton. He was kept away from the running of the estate and instead sent to learn with a tutor (as his mother thought him sickly and not very bright). One of the lessons he learned was the power of the canal systems in Italy.

The family had inherited an estate in Cheshire and Francis, now the Third Duke of Bridgewater, and James Brindley created the first man-made canal to transport coal from the family’s estates. It made him a very wealthy man - and when he died he left a £2m fortune. So much for not being very bright!

The money left allowed his cousin John Egerton, who became the 7th Earl of Bridgewater, to create the house we know today in the Gothic Revival style.

The 7th Earl of Bridgwater had no children, so in 1851 when his great nephew, Viscount Alford inherited, he and his wife The Lady Marian brought new heights of splendour to the house.

Nigel tells us more about Lady Marian: ‘She was the daughter of the Marquess of Northampton - she was quite high born and spent the first 17 years of her life in Rome. She would invite playwrights and scholars to Ashridge House - they would have very cultural parties - Oscar Wilde was a regular visitor.’

When Lady Marian’s son Lord Brownlow and his wife died, having had no children, the estate was sold - by this time there were 18 villages within the estate! There were plans to knock Ashridge down and build a housing estate, but instead it was bought by MP Urban Hanlon Broughton as a gift to the Conservative party to commemorate the life of Prime Minister Andrew Bonar-Law. The Memorial Trust came into being and Ashridge House opened as a College. This was a project that John Buchan, the author of The 39 Steps was involved in.

In 1939 the house was taken over by the Ministry of Defence and became a very important military headquarters. France’s Charles de Gaulle was billeted in a safe house in Little Gaddesden in 1939 - and Winston Churchill was a constant visitor to Ashridgenegotiating with De Gaulle to bring him back into power.

During both wars, Ashridge House was also a wartime hospital with more than 20,000 patients coming through its doors. Between 4,000 and 5,000 babies were also born in the makeshift maternity ward.

In another connection to the military - a battalion of American soldiers were camped out in the woods in Ashridge. There’s still a tree engraved with the home counties of everybody that was stationed there, along with the date - April 1944 - and the word ‘victory’! Find out more about Ashridge’s history at www.livingmags.info/features

TINY TRAVELLERS

Holidays with children don’t have to be a drag –follow these tips to relieve the travel tedium

Travelling with children can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be challenging. Fortunately, there are small steps you can take to make your vacation a memorable experience for the right reasons (not the meltdowns at the airport!).

Plan ahead

Before you travel, research your destination to find out what activities are available for kids, where you can access child-friendly restaurants, and what amenities are available for families. This will help you to plan your itinerary and ensure there is as little room as possible for boredom to creep in.

Pack wisely

When packing for a family trip, make sure to bring along all the essentials such as nappies, wipes, medicine and extra clothes. Pack snacks and drinks to keep your kids fuelled and hydrated during the journey.

Games, books, tablets and toys are essential for long waits or flights.

Choose kid-friendly accommodations

When deciding where to stay, look for hotels or resorts that offer child-friendly areas such as kids’ clubs, pools, and playgrounds. This will help keep your youngsters entertained and allow you to relax too, knowing that they are safe and having fun.

Involve your kids in the planning process

Let your little ones in on the planning process by encouraging them to choose some of the activities or destinations you will visit. This will help them feel more invested in the trip and give them something to look forward to… not to mention acting as a helpful incentive for good behaviour!

Be flexible

Travelling can be unpredictable at the best of times, and doubly so when children are involved, so it’s important to be flexible and willing to change your plans if needed. Be prepared for delays, unexpected tantrums, and other challenges that may arise.

Make safety a priority

Every parent’s worst nightmare is losing contact with your children or them becoming ill in an unfamiliar place. Make sure your kids are always supervised and that you have a plan in case of an emergency. If travelling abroad, make sure to research any health or safety risks and take the necessary precautions.

Take breaks

Travelling can be exhausting, especially for smaller children. Be sure to take breaks throughout the day to give your kids a chance to rest and recharge. This will help prevent meltdowns and ensure that everyone stays in good spirits.

Bring buggies and scooters

If your child is still young enough to use a buggy or is used to riding on a scooter, remembering to pack them can be a godsend. It will make navigating through crowded airports or busy tourist destinations much easier!

Be tech savvy

While it’s important to limit screen time, technology can be a lifesaver when travelling with kids. Bring along a tablet or other device loaded with age-appropriate games and

videos to keep your kids entertained during long flights or car rides.

Enjoy the ride

Travelling with kids can be stressful, but it can also be a lot of fun. Remember to take time to enjoy the experience and make memories with your family. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a successful and enjoyable trip with your kids.

SALAD DAYS

Spring into summer by planting your own salad vegetables to enjoy over the warmer months

As we prepare to enter that golden summer season in our garden, you may well experience that tinge of disappointment when seeing some plants not flourish to their full potential, and there are always a cluster of seeds not sown that could now be full of life.

That’s what makes salad plants so appealing – not only is their success rate high, but there may still be time to get them in the soil as they grow quickly and, of course, are ideal accompaniments to that classic summer escape – the barbecue!

So as the weather warms up, consider planting these super salad plants to ensure that you have fresh and healthy ingredients on hand this year whenever you need them.

Lettuce

A salad staple, lettuce is also one of the easiest salad plants to grow, and it can be sown directly into the soil in the spring and summer months. There are many different

types of lettuce to choose from, including crisphead, butterhead, and looseleaf.

Lettuce prefers cool weather and partial shade, so make sure to keep it well-watered during hot spells.

Rocket

Rocket has launched itself into the hearts of UK salad eaters, and it’s not hard to understand why.

Peppery and vibrant, the leaf also known as arugula adds a lot of flavour to any dish and is quick to grow. Just be sure (as with all fresh veg) to give it a good wash before you serve it.

Radishes

You may think radishes are rad; or you may think they taste very, very bad. Regardless, this crunchy and peppery root vegetable is easy to grow and can go from seed to serve in as little as four weeks. Offering a decent dose of vitamin C, these red rebels can add flavour

You may think radishes are rad; or you may think they taste very, very bad. Regardless, this crunchy and peppery root vegetable is easy to grow and can go from seed to serve in as little as four weeks

and texture to salads, are strangely superb on toast, and can be pickled to enjoy later. Just make sure you plant them in welldraining soil.

Spring onions

When it comes to livening up dull dishes, the humble spring onion is a powerhouse of flavour and versatility.

Spruce up stir-fries, make a delightful dip or even whizz up a delicious summertime soup.

Another good thing about these awesome alliums is that they require very little space or soil, making them ideal for pots and even windowsills.

Spinach

Spinach may be known for its super-strength giving properties, but the plant itself is rather sensitive, requiring six weeks of cool weather from seeding to harvest.

Be sure to keep your plants in the shade, and well-watered during this time.

Once harvested however, you should have an abundance of nutrient-rich leafy greens that can be used in salads, smoothies, and soups.

Mizuna

Spice up your life with Mizuna, a Japanese salad green that has a slightly fiery and peppery taste. For a continuous supply of leaves, sow small batches regularly and thin

Radishes

out the seedlings along the row to prevent overcrowding – for example 10–15cm (4–6in) apart for regular pickings of small leaves.

Chard

You’ll be pleased to know that it isn’t particularly hard to grow chard. A stunningly beautiful and vibrant plant that loves the sun and takes up very little space, its glorious colouring will also complement the late summer blooms in your flowerbeds.

A stunningly beautiful and vibrant plant that loves the sun and takes up very little space, its glorious colouring will also complement the late summer blooms in your flowerbeds

WIN A MEAL FOR FOUR THIS SUMMER AT LUSSMANNS

Summer is here, and what better way to enjoy the longer days and warmer weather than a meal with friends at Hertfordshire’s most sustainable independent restaurant, Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen And Garden, in Berkhamsted?

The popular Berkhamsted restaurant is situated on the High Street in a charming Grade II Listed building, and has recently celebrated its first birthday.

Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen restaurant group (which has five restaurants in total across Hertfordshire) has won multiple awards for its sustainability ethos over the past 20 years: it uses renewable energy, recycles its waste and only uses suppliers who practise humane and responsible fishing and farming.

The Berkhamsted eatery has a cosy bar area for pre-dinner drinks as well as pretty private and semi-private dining areas, and an expansive, light-filled conservatory room, which leads out onto one of the largest restaurant walled-gardens in the area – it’s a real sun-trap!

You could win a delicious three-course lunch or dinner for four people at Lussmanns Berkhamsted. Extra courses and beverages are not included in the prize. For a chance to win simply answer the following question and go to our website for more details. www.livingmags.info/competition.

How many restaurants does Lussmanns have across Hertfordshire?

Terms and conditions apply, visit website for details. Closing date: 14 July 2023.

TAKE AN ALPACA FOR AN AMBLE!

Up for grabs is a family Alpaca Amble for up to six people - worth £90.

The Living Magazines team visited Tring’s Park Hill Farm recently to try out the experience for ourselves.

First we met the three boys - the tallest one, Winston was happily humming to himself. With him were Freddie and Albie. Once we had said hello, the boys got their harnesses on and we had a lovely stroll around the field, stopping for them to enjoy some new grass and some nibbles. Owner Sam has set up stopping stations around the field, where she will explain more about alpacas, where they are from, how they live in the wild and so on.

After your amble you could stop off for a cuppa at the Stable Shack Tea room. The little cafe has also become well-known for its afternoon teas, with home made cakes and sandwiches.

The farm also offers an Alpaca Picnic, and Unicorn adventures too, for younger guests. A wonderful way to get away from the stresses of everyday life, get out in the countryside and enjoy time with these beautiful animals.

For a chance to win simply answer the following question and go to our website to enter www.livingmags.info/competition.

What are the three alpacas’ full names?

(Find the answer at www.alpacaandunicornadventures.com)

Terms and conditions apply, visit website for details. Closing date: 15 July 2023.

THE BOYS

‘Stay baggy’ tapered jeans

Tapered baggy denim is back. After the likes of Pete Davidson and Justin Bieber pushed the look hard in 2022, the industry has responded by rolling out a delectable depth of dynamic denim that will drive that classic stonewashed look this year.

Baggy jeans not only look good as streetwear, skate wear and as voluminous vintage, they’re ultra-comfortable too!

Plain shorts

Whereas in previous years the shorts vibe has varied from sport to camouflage, summer 2023 will see a return to simple cotton, straight cuts and uncomplicated designs.

Men’s attire may not hit the heady or extroverted heights associated with women’s fashion, but there’s plenty to be excited about this summer for the man who has a fashion plan. Here are some must-have items that could be making a path to a wardrobe near you.

Light jackets

The return of what some might consider an Eighties throwback akin to shell suits and outrageously colourful ski wear has been provoked by the appearance of a Quiksilver jacket in the town of Hawkins, in hit Netflix drama Stranger Things.

The item was crafted as part of a collaboration with the costume department of the hit show, reminding us of arcades, skateboards and retro summer vibes from a simpler era.

Surf and ski aviators

The classic Top Gun aviators have undergone something of a redesign in recent years, with surf and ski versions moving this iconic classic from the high-octane fast lane and onto the rather more salubrious climes of Val Thorens and Courchevel.

Functionality is being taken to be as important as flair, so expect durability, simple shades, pocket space aplenty and, of course, a cool and comfortable feel.

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66

We’ve all been invited to a party that brands itself under the ‘smart/casual’ tag, and it often feels like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 was designed for every gathering.

There is no better nor more iconic fashion trainer than the Tiger – with a variety of colours ensuring an appropriate match with any dress code, any time, any place.

Lightweight shirts

This summer will see the return of the roomy, flowing shirt. Whites, greys and sky blues will dominate the high streets, putting to one side those dark, dusky tones and styles that seem to have patterned our social outings for the past couple of years.

The fact lightweight fabrics will rule the roost must imply we’re in for a summer of high temperatures and radiant sunshine. Perhaps the fashion fraternity know something we don’t!

BOOKS

Heading off on holiday? Take one of our books from local authors to read!

Local authors! Let us know about your book releases. Email editorial@livingmags.info

The Empire Theatre Murders

If you love a murder mystery, the theatre and period dramas - this is the book for you.

Set in the 1920s, it features Kit and Mary Aston who are asked to investigate threatening letters that have been sent to the performers in a seaside variety theatre, and temperamental magician, Javier Gonzalo, has lost his head, quite literally, mid act. Can Kit and Mary identify the murderer in time?

The author creates a wonderful eerie atmosphere within the pages, and the themes of revenge, illusion, mystery and magic just add to its compelling nature.

Jack Murray was born in Northern Ireland but now lives in Berkhamsted.

The World Outside My Window

Laura is unable to leave her house, and instead is reduced to looking out the window and relying on her husband Jim and best friend Debbie to help her. But one day Jim doesn’t come home.

And when he has still not returned after a week, Laura has no choice - she has to leave the house and find her husband.

But she’s not alone, her local community rally round her - and when they discover that Jim might have been hiding some secrets, Laura has a choice – retreat back behind her window, or start living her life.

Another emotional, page-turner from our former Living Magazines’ editor!

Clare has written seven women’s fiction novels, and lives in Berkhamsted.

Tring Rural Village in the Twentieth Century

Jenny and Alan Warner interviewed 13 long-term residents of Tring Rural Villages, as part of their voluntary work for the website Tringruralhistory.co.uk.

Within its pages you can discover what life was like in Long Marston, Puttenham and Wilstone during the Second World War and proceeding years. From bombs dropping on a village school, and the secret life of the airfield at Long Marston, to legendary parties in the village hall and Father Christmas appearing on a horse and cart on Christmas morning.

It’s wonderful to read these memories from longstanding residents, and to know they have been preserved for future generations.

The book is available to buy from Tring Local History Museum.

Outwitting the Enemy

A couple of years ago, we featured Mike’s book Doing One’s Duty - a thrilling tale about the British Intelligence Service.

The main character, Andrew, is back in Mike’s latest book. In this tale, he is sent to spy on the building of the submarine pens for a possible raid by the RAF later in the year, then parachuted into northern France on another mission.

Mike Walsham is an author who lives in Ringshall, Little Gaddesden. He published his first novel, Monique, in 2020.

Pirate Word Scramble

1. EPRTAI…………….

2. DREMIAM……………..

3. RRTAPO……………..

4. EAURTERS PMA………………….

5. LYLOJ REGOR…………………..

6. MSPASOC………………..

Make New Friends Learn New Skills

• FUN, EASY, STEP-BY-STEP

• Develop impressive new skills in a warm and friendly atmosphere

• 3 hour sessions, morning or afternoon, for 3½ months

• Learn how to make Art you can give as gifts or sell at craft fairs

• Get Arty and make The Seasons your favourite day of the week!

“It’s brilliant, now I can draw my grandchildren!!!”

Sue, Shrewsbury

‘It’s so nice to meet such fabulous new people.”

Liz, Poole

“Don’t miss out. You will love this course!”

Gary, Newbury

Want to play your part in helping the environment this summer but unsure where to start? Here are 13 easy routes to green greatness…

Reusable water bottle

Hydration is vital in the summer months, but do it whilst ensuring you have a reusable water bottle that breaks the habit of constantly buying plastic disposables in shops.

Eat local

If you can source local producers from which to buy your food, the positive effect on the environment is huge. Not only will what you eat have real provenance, it will also be fresher having travelled a shorter distance to the plate.

Composting

Composting is a sure-fire way to reduce waste, whilst reinvesting in matter that will complete the circle in helping your garden grow.

Use natural energy

Using a fan instead of putting on the air conditioning will save on electricity; and why not return to the traditional outdoor clothesdrying methods rather than using appliances indoors.

Collect rainwater

It seems in the UK even the smallest stint of warm weather is followed by the threat of a hosepipe ban. So instead of draining the mains water supply, collect rainwater and store in barrels - it can then be used when needed to water your plants and garden.

Use less water

Consider cutting back on water usage, if possible. Shower instead of bath –installing a water-saving showerhead – use bathing water from pets on plants, and definitely turn off water whilst shaving or brushing teeth.

Pick up a picnic

You can be as green as the park you’re sitting in if everything you use can be recycled – think paper plates, napkins, straws and reusable cups.

Great grass management

If you have a petrol-driven lawnmower, change to electric and reduce the emissions you’re putting out in your green space. If that’s not possible, let the grass grow a bit longer – that’s good for garden dwellers as well as the environment.

Change your car

The big drive is to adopt electric vehicles, but even switching to a smaller car, or removing from your vehicle items you don’t need that add weight and use up fuel, can have a really positive effect on the environment.

Keep up the (tyre) pressure

Similarly, make sure your vehicle’s tyres are correctly inflated. Flat or poorly maintained tyres require more energy, meaning greater fuel consumption.

Make sure your vehicle’s tyres are correctly inflated. Flat or poorly maintained tyres require more energy, meaning greater fuel consumption

Planting wildflower seeds in the spring will see them appear the same year, encouraging bees and insects and improving your environmental ecosystem

Grow wildflowers

Planting wildflower seeds in the spring will see them appear the same year, encouraging bees and insects and improving your environmental ecosystem.

Check your home for draughts

While you’ll truly feel the benefit of draught exclusion in the winter months, there’s all-year-round benefit from ensuring heat isn’t escaping from gaps in your home.

Help clean beaches

Finally, whether your local area is a park, a beach, a field or a rocky outcrop, a quick sweep for rubbish once a week – perhaps as part of a local community project – will not only make things visually pleasing, but will help the flora and fauna who reside there.

alk 7

WALKS AROUND TOWN

Ashley Green and Hockeridge Wood

An attractive, mainly level walk, which takes you along paths and quiet lanes through fields and woods: Hockeridge Wood and Pancake Wood have been planted with a wide variety of ornamental and forest trees including traditional native species such as beech, oak, and cherry. Information plates at the base of some of the trees tell you more about them.

Ashley Green and Hockeridge Wood

Distance:

attractive, mainly level walk which takes you along paths and quiet lanes through fields and woods: Hockeridge Wood and Pancake Wood have been planted wide variety of ornamental and forest trees including traditional native species such as beech, oak, and cherry. Information plates at the base of some of trees tell you more about them.

Distance: 4 miles (allow 2 ½ hours)

Start: Parking in the village of Ashley Green. Golden Eagle pub car park (with landlord’s permission). Access: Fairly level walk.

Refreshments: Golden Eagle pub.

Parking in the village. Golden Eagle pub car park (with landlord’s permission).

Information: Fairly level walk.

Refreshments: Golden Eagle pub.

Route

far end of the car park at the Eagle pub, go through a metal gate and cross a field with a hedge right to meet another gate. Go turn right alongside a hedge and downhill to a gate at the entrance Hockeridge Wood.

Go through this track ends, bear left along the

Turn left and follow this quiet lane for about 600m to a footpath sign on your right.

Climb up the steps, go through the gate

1. From the far end of the car park at the Golden Eagle pub, go through a metal kissing gate and cross a field with a hedge on your right to meet another gate. Go through, turn right alongside a hedge and gently downhill to a gate at the entrance to Hockeridge Wood.

track that runs parallel to the

follow the broad path up and along the wood for 850m and down gate onto John’s Lane. ignoring the other road joining it left, and immediately left along a towards Marlin Chapel Farm. passing to the right of the farm, follow come to the end of a lane. along the lane until it meets up lane at Clamber Cottage.

Continue through a series of gates to reach John's Lane. Turn left along the lane for 100m to the main entrance to Hockeridge Wood. Turn right through the side gate and keep straight ahead for over 500m to meet a wide crossing track. Turn right, drop down through the next field to reach the car park of the

2. Go through this gate, follow the broad path up and along through the wood for 850m and down through a gate onto John’s Lane.

bridleway round as it curves to the left,

and walk along the left hand side of the field. a gate and continue uphill along the hedgerow and then turn left through a gate, crossing Golden Eagle pub.

3. Turn right, ignoring the other road joining it from your left, and immediately left along a concrete track that runs parallel to the A41.

4. Where the track ends, bear left along the field edge towards Marlin Chapel Farm.

After passing to the right of the farm, follow the bridleway round as it curves to the left, until you come to the end of a lane.

5. Turn left along the lane until it meets up with the lane at Clamber Cottage. Turn left and follow this quiet lane for about 600m to a footpath sign on your right.

6. Climb up the steps, go through the gate and walk along the left hand side of the field. Continue through a series of gates to reach John’s Lane. Turn left along the lane for 100m to the main entrance to Hockeridge Wood.

Turn right through the side gate and keep straight ahead for over 500m to meet a wide crossing track. Turn right, drop down through a gate and continue uphill along the hedgerow and then turn left through a gate, crossing the next field to reach the car park of the Golden Eagle pub. Download the walk from our website at www.livingmags.info.

• With thanks to the Chiltern Society

THE

HISTORY OF THE

As we approach the ninth edition of the official Women’s World Cup, we chart the rapid evolution of one of football’s most loved competitions

Although the first official Women’s World Cup was held in 1991, it’s appropriate to trace back a further two decades to find the Calcio Femminile Coppa Del Mondo. The tournament, a first attempt to bring together representative female footballers from around the world, was staged in Italy in 1970. It drew significant crowds, perhaps encouraged by title sponsors Martini and Rossi!

Denmark beat the hosts 2-0 in the final, defending their win the following year in front of audiences approaching six figures at Mexico’s six-team tournament, where

a ‘British Independent Ladies’ team –including a 13-year-old winger, Leah Caleb – also competed.

After further iterations in the 1980s, FIFA saw the obvious promise of the event, but it wasn’t until that inaugural official Women’s World Cup took place in China, in 1991 – with the United States beating Norway 2-1 in the Guangzhou final – did the tournament truly ascend its status.

Canada 2015 saw an increase to 24 teams from 16, and offered revenge for the USA as they beat Japan 5-2 in the Vancouver final

Norwegian side would take the plaudits in Sweden in the second edition. Their hugely talented squad of players beat Germany 2-0 at the Råsunda Stadium in Stockholm, with goals from Hege Riise and Marianne Pettersen, as the Lionesses debut ended at the quarter-final stage.

The ‘Stars and Stripes’ would regain the title on home soil in 1999 against China, as Brandi Chastain netted the winning penalty in the 5-4 shootout victory for the United States.

That World Cup was built on the success of the first Olympic women’s football tournament held during the 1996 Atlanta Games, with the 1999 World Cup played in front of an average of 37,000 spectators per match.

The event in 2003 was also held in the US, who stepped in after planned hosts China had to relinquish duties after an outbreak of SARS. Yet there was to be no back-to-back success for the Americans, as they crashed out in the semi-final to a Germany side who went on to defeat Sweden for their first title.

China belatedly hosted the tournament four years later, and Germany were able to defend their 2003 title with a 2-0 victory over Brazil in the Hongkou Stadium. England were knocked out by the USA in the quarterfinals, a stage they just couldn’t get past… yet.

A new name would be on the trophy in 2011 as Japan took this instalment by

storm, beating the hosts and hat-trick-seeking Germans in the quarters, the Swedes in the last four, before coming from behind to see off the mighty Americans on penalties in the final.

Canada 2015 saw an increase to 24 teams from 16, and offered revenge for the USA as they beat Japan 5-2 in the Vancouver final. The tournament was controversial for being played on artificial turf in sweltering conditions.

France 2019 attracted a global television audience of over 1.1 billion, with the United States winning again, this time 2-0 against Sarina Wiegman’s European champions, Netherlands.

With England having trodden that same familiar path under the talented Dutch coach by securing their first international title win in the form of the 2022 Euros victory against Germany, could they add a World Cup final to their resume in Australia and New Zealand?

France 2019 attracted a global television audience of over 1.1 billion, with the United States winning again, this time 2-0 against Sarina Wiegman’s European champions, Netherlands

Method:

Step one

Put the flour, butter, icing sugar and salt in a food processor and blitz into crumbs. Combine the yolk with 1tbsp cold water, then add to the processor and pulse until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two, wrap in clingfilm and chill in the fridge for at least one hour or, better still, overnight.

Step two

Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas mark 5. Roll out one half of the pastry, then butter an 8in pie dish and press in the pastry topped with a sheet of baking paper and baking beans. Bake blind for 30 mins. Remove the paper and beans. Mix the berries, sugar and pour the mixture into your baked pie base.

Step three

Roll out the second batch of pastry and top the pie with it, trimming to fit, and using a fork to seal the edge. Use a sharp knife to create a few slits for steam to escape before brushing with the whisked egg white before topping with sugar. Bake for 30-35 minutes until crust is golden. Leave to cool as filling will be extremely hot!

SUMMER FRUITS PIE

Make the most of summer berries with this delectable pie… perfect with a dollop of fresh cream!

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 225g cold unsalted butter chopped into small pieces

• 350g plain flour

• 50g icing sugar

• Pinch of salt

• 1 large egg yolk

For the filling:

• 800g of berries such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, cherries or blueberries

• 100g sugar

• 2tbsp of cornflour

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• 1 egg white (for glazing)

• 1tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

Top tips:

• If you’re time-starved, feel free to use pre-made shortcrust pastry which is generally as good as homemade, and certainly easier!

• Frozen berries will work in a pinchjust defrost them for half an hour before baking.

• If you don’t have baking beans use cooking weights, dried lentils or rice.

• If you don’t have access to a food processor simply rub the butter and flour together until it is the texture of breadcrumbs.

What our customers say:

Community Action Dacorum, a charity based in Hemel Old Town has recently started holding Volunteer Information sessions in Tring and Berkhamsted… We were overwhelmed by the number of people who came to our event, the majority of whom had found out about it from your magazine.

Community Action Dacorum

What our readers say: Keep up the good work with the Living magazines - they are always very well used in our house. Cath

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What our readers say: I do like your Living magazines and always learn something new when it comes through my door.

What our readers say:

Thank you very much for your effort for keeping us, residents, in the loop of what’s happening in the area.

WHAT’S ON

WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO FOR DAILY UPDATES

ALWAYS CHECK with the event organiser beforehand. Opening times and restrictions may vary. If you would like to include your event in future magazines complete the form at: www.livingmags.info/submit-event.

TUESDAY 6 JUN

Arts & Crafts: Learn to Draw Peregrines

2-4pm. Suggested donation £3. Settle down with your sketch pad and pencils for an online tutorial on how to begin to observe and sketch our amazing bird of prey, the peregrine. www. hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

Music: Albert Lee Court Theatre, 7.30pm. From £28. Undoubtedly one of the finest guitarists the world has ever seen. courttheatre. co.uk

WEDNESDAY 7 JUN

Talks: An Audience with England Rugby Player Zoe Harrison Berkhamsted School - Kings, 7.30pm. £10. An audience with one of the brightest young talents in English Rugby. tickets.berkhamsted. com

Talks: Hec-Talk Group

Open to all men to come together and talk. The group meets for an hour at The XC Centre, Jarman Way, Hemel Hempstead every first and third Wednesday of the month from 7.30pm. https:// tinyurl.com/5n8c6p3v

THURSDAY 8 JUN

Walks: Hertfordshire Health Walk

Meet on grassed area opposite Millennium Garden, Canal Fields car park, Berkhamsted. Alternate Thursdays 10am. Grade 1-3, 8 & 22 Jun; Grade 3-4, 15 & 29 Jun. www. hertfordshire.gov.uk

Arts & Crafts: Butterflies for Beginners

2-4pm. Learn about some of the common butterflies found in Hertfordshire. Looking at their life cycles, ecology, conservation status, and how to tell them apart from moths. www. hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

FRIDAY 9 JUN

Kids: Stay and Play

Lockers Park School, Boxmoor, 9.30-11am. Children and their parents are welcome to join a fun lesson and play time at Little Lockers (Pre-Prep) and meet the Reception Teacher and Headmaster. www.boxmoor.herts.sch.uk

SATURDAY 10 JUN

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market Church Square, High Street,

Tring, 9am-12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Fine produce from around the district. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

Fairs / Festivals: Tring’s Great Big Green Week

To 18 Jun. Includes everything from cookery to craft, festivals to football matches, shop window displays to school assemblies. greatbiggreenweek.com

Sport: Bowls Centenary Gala

Kitcheners Bowls Club, Berkhamsted. 2 wood triples competition of 5 ends 4 sessions. £5 per player entrants fee (£15 a triples). Dress code casual but flat shoes must be worn. 07708 649164

Talks: Council of Women Temperance Hall, Christchurch Road, Tring, 7.30pm. A warm, welcoming group exploring what it really means to be a woman in the 21st century and how we can impact the world in a deeply female way. www.eventbrite. com/e/council-of-womentickets-559100543777

SUNDAY 11 JUN

Fundraisers: Walk Your Ridgeway

It’s 50 years since the Ridgeway was officially opened as a national trail. Celebrate by joining either a 13-mile or 26-mile local route finishing off soaking up the stunning views of Ivinghoe Beacon. www.stfrancis. org.uk

Sport: Bucks Radio Tour de Vale Bike Ride

Transform lives by taking part in Buckinghamshire’s biggest charity bike ride. Take on 1 of 3 glorious routes (25k, 75k & 110k) that start and finish at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. www. tourdevale.com

Fairs / Festivals: Summer Open Day

Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary, Darrs Lane, HP4 3RJ. Parking on site. Adults £1, kids free. Lots of fun including bouncy castle, face painting, pony grooming, food trucks, licensed bar, music, craft stalls and much more. twooaksponysanctuary. wixsite.com

Music: Piano and More St Peter and St Paul Church, Tring, 3-4pm. Concert by Tring School students, followed by tea. Free entry; donations to expenses welcome. piano-and-more. org.uk

SATURDAY 17 JUN

Music: Beacon Community Choir St Mary the Virgin, Ivinghoe, 7pm. Also Sun 18, 4pm. Performing Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo by Michael Flanders

and Joseph Horowitz - A lighthearted look at the Old Testament story. www. beaconcommunitychoir. co.uk

Music: Matt Telfer Quintet - Them Dirty Blues

BJazz at the Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 8pm. Full Bar facilities. A tribute to the music of altoist Cannonball Adderley, guitarist Wes Montgomery and pianist Bobby Timmons. www. bjazz.org

SUNDAY 18 JUN

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market

High St, Berkhamsted, 10am2pm. Third Sun of every month. An opportunity for local customers to buy high quality produce direct from the producer. www. facebook.com/berkofm

Fairs / Festivals: Marsworth Steam Rally Startop Farm, HP23 4LL. 11am-5pm. Historic Steam Engines, Agricultural, Classic Cars, Bikes & Trucks. Great family day out. www. marsworthsteamrally.co.uk

Music: Tring Chamber Music Summer SeasonDvorak, Birds and a Bull Aldbury Church, 7.30pm. www.tringchambermusic. co.uk

TUESDAY 20 JUN

Business: Tring BusinessMart Breakfast

7.45-9am. Join the friendly BusinessMart networking group for a morning of enjoyable but productive networking and the chance to meet new

business associates. www. tringtogether.org.uk

WEDNESDAY 21 JUN

Sport: Tring Midsummer Fun Run

Tring Park Cricket Club, 4.30pm start. An event for the whole family with races for all age groups from preschoolers to adults. www. tringrunningclub.org.uk

THURSDAY 22 JUN

Gardens: An Afternoon at Moat Farm

Moat Farm, Water Lane, HP17 8XD, 1.30-4.30pm. A relaxed garden party with some classic afternoon tea favourites, along with live music and a variety of stalls. thepacecentre.org

Business: Summer Barbecue

Berkhamsted Boys’ School, Castle Campus, 6-8pm. One of a series of events offering opportunities to join as a community with the School. events@berkhamsted.com

SATURDAY 24 JUN

Music: Summer Sound

Fest

Dudswell, HP4 3TA. Doors 2pm, live music from 3pm. A packed lineup of talented local artists, covering a range of genres from rock, afro beat, folk, jazz, bluegrass and funk. www. stfrancis.org.uk

Fundraisers: Walk of Light 4.30-10pm. £17-£20. Florence

Nightingale Hospice

Charity’s first ever Walk of Light, celebrating and remembering those we knew and loved. fnhospice. org.uk

Dance: The Wild Welcome Temperance Hall, Christchurch Road, Tring,

7.30pm. Every 4 weeks on Saturday. Welcome your wild side with music, movement and free dance. templeofourtime@gmail.com

Fairs / Festivals: Herts Big Weekend

Also 25 Jun. Hertfordshire’s biggest celebration of the year gives you the opportunity to enjoy all that our county has to offer. www.hertsbigweekend.co.uk

TUESDAY 27 JUN

Music: Our House

Boxmoor Playhouse, Hemel Hempstead. To 1 Jul. This very British, Olivier Awardwinning musical is by Tim Firth, writer of Calendar Girls. It features a collection of Madness hits. www. hhtheatreco.com

THURSDAY 29 JUN

Business: Berko Interchange

Waite & Rose Café

Berkhamsted, 8.30-9.30am. Join David Milbourn and Ed Evans of Stringer Mann Chartered Financial Planners, for the Berko Interchange networking meeting. www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/berko-interchangetickets-547761187457

FRIDAY 30 JUN

Sport: Stocks Golf Day Stocks Golf Club, Aldbury. Pepper Foundation Golf Day. www.facebook.com/ pepperfoundation

SATURDAY 1 JUL

Walks: DENS Castle Walk Berkhamsted Castle, 9.30am. This charity walk event is the perfect summer’s day out for all members of the family, including fourlegged friends. www.dens. org.uk

Fundraisers: Chilterns Dog Rescue Society

Open Day

Also Sun 2 Jul. Chilterns Dog Rescue Centre, Bromley Heights, St Leonards Road, Chivery, HP23 6LD. Find out how the rescue centre works, behind the scenes tours. Explore the woodland walk. A variety of stalls and refreshments. chilternsdogrescue. org.uk

SUNDAY 2 JUL

Comedy: The Tringe

To 22 Jul. A wonderful mixture of previews and warm ups of the best comedy shows, mixed in with spoken word events, children’s shows and more. www.get-stuffed. biz/tringe

WEDNESDAY 5 JULY

Talks: Hec-Talk Group

Open to all men to come together and talk. The group meets for an hour at The XC Centre, Jarman Way, Hemel Hempstead every first and third Wednesday of the month from 7.30pm. https:// tinyurl.com/5n8c6p3v

Thursday 6 Jul

THURSDAY 6 JULY

Walks: Hertfordshire

Health Walk

Alternate Thursdays 10am. Meet outside Zoological Museum, Akeman Street HP23 6AP. www. hertfordshire.gov.uk

FRIDAY 7 JUL

Music: Totally Tribute

Tring Rugby pitches, Cow Lane, Tring. With Rob Lamberti, George Michael Tribute, Ultimate Elton, Noasis, The Freddy & Queen Experience and The Dolly Show. chilfest.co.uk

SATURDAY 8 JUL

Fairs / Festivals: BeaconLit Literary Festival

Brookmead School, Ivinghoe. The festival committee has assembled a stunning lineup, which includes authors, writers and broadcasters. www. beaconlit.co.uk

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market Church Square, High Street, Tring, 9am-12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Fine produce from around the district. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

Fairs / Festivals: Wildfest

Cassiobury Park, Watford, 10am-4pm. Learn about local organisations working for wildlife. With activities such as bird watching, sweep netting, tree walks, scavengers hunts, river dipping, nature crafts and storytelling. www. hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

Music: Chilfest

Tring Rugby pitches,

Cow Lane, Tring. With OMD, Thomson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Leee John of Imagination, From The Jam, The Dualers, Dodgy, The South, Blancmange and Big Country. chilfest.co.uk

Talks: Council of Women Temperance Hall, Christchurch Road, Tring, 7.30pm. A warm, welcoming group exploring what it means to be a woman in the 21st century and how we can impact the world. www.eventbrite. com/e/council-of-womentickets-559100543777

SUNDAY 9 JUL

Music: Piano and More St Peter and St Paul Church, Tring, 3-4pm. Helen Godbolt, cello recital. Free entry; donations to expenses welcome. piano-and-more. org.uk

THURSDAY 13 JUL

Fairs / Festivals: Tring Together Summer Carnival Pound Meadow, Station Road, Tring. To 16 Jul. With the Big Tring Quiz on Thursday at 7.30pm and Music in the Marquee on Saturday at 8pm. The highlight is the Saturday Carnival Day. www. tringtogether.org.uk

FRIDAY 14 JUL

Comedy: Comedy Night

Ashlyns, Berkhamsted. Enjoy comedians Scott Bennett, Wayne the Weird, Paul Revill and ‘The Sinnerman’ Paul Sinha. Licensed bar all evening and

pre-show food available. www.ashlynsfestival.co.uk

SATURDAY 15 JUL

Fundraisers: Ashlyns Festival Ashlyns School, Berkhamsted, 12noon-11pm. Family and eco-friendly event with live music, street food stalls, fully licensed bar, activity zone for kids. www. ashlynsfestival.co.uk

SUNDAY 16 JUL

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market

High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. An opportunity for local customers to buy high quality produce direct from the producer. www. facebook.com/berkofm

Exhibitions: Classic Car and Motorcycle Show Dudswell, Tring Road, Berkhamsted, 11am3pm. Featuring a range of impressive cars each lovingly cared for. Market stalls, refreshments and food also available. www. stfrancis.org.uk

Music: Voluspa Berkhamsted Old Town Hall, 7pm. Behind the Mirror presents Eva Þórarinsdóttir, Nicholas Bootiman and Clare O’Connell. www. behindthemirror.org

THURSDAY 20 JUL

Business: Tring BusinessMart Breakfast 7.45-9am. Join the friendly BusinessMart networking group for a morning of enjoyable but productive networking and

the chance to meet new business associates. www. tringtogether.org.uk

FRIDAY 21 JUL

Exhibitions: Make & Mend Exhibition and Events

Open Door, Berkhamsted. To 28 Jul. www. opendoorberkhamsted.co.uk

SATURDAY 22 JUL

Dance: The Wild Welcome Temperance Hall, Christchurch Road, Tring, 7.30pm. Every 4 weeks on Saturday. Welcome your wild side with music, movement and free dance. templeofourtime@gmail. com

SUNDAY 23 JUL

Music: Tring Chamber Music Summer SeasonContrasting Clarinet Trios Hastoe Village Hall, 7.30pm. www.tringchambermusic. co.uk

THURSDAY 27 JUL

Business: Berko Interchange

Waite & Rose Café Berkhamsted, 8.30-9.30am. Join David Milbourn and Ed Evans of Stringer Mann Chartered Financial Planners, for the Berko Interchange networking meeting. www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/berko-interchangetickets-547761187457

WEDNESDAY 2 AUG

Talks: Hec-Talk Group

Open to all men to come together and talk. The group meets for an hour at The XC Centre, Jarman Way,

Hemel Hempstead every first and third Wednesday of the month from 7.30pm. https://tinyurl. com/5n8c6p3v

THURSDAY 3 AUG

Walks: Hertfordshire Health Walk

Meet on grassed area opposite Millennium Garden, Canal Fields car park, Berkhamsted. Alternate Thursdays 10am. Grade 1-3, 3, 17 & 31 Aug; Grade 3-4, 10 & 24 Aug. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

FRIDAY 4 AUG

Fundraisers: Stocks Golf Day

Stocks Golf Course, Aldbury, 9.30am. Starting off with registration and bacon rolls, followed by a shotgun start at 9.30am to kick off your round of golf on the superbly maintained par 73 course. www. stfrancis.org.uk

SATURDAY 5 AUG

Talks: Council of Women Temperance Hall, Christchurch Road, Tring, 7.30pm. A warm, welcoming group exploring what itmeans to be a woman in the 21st century. www.eventbrite. com/e/council-of-womentickets-559100543777

SATURDAY 12 AUG

Markets & Sales: Tring Farmers Market

Church Square, High Street, Tring, 9am-12.30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month. Fine produce from around the district. www. tringfarmersmarket.co.uk

SUNDAY 13 AUG

Music: Piano and More St Peter and St Paul Church, Tring, 3-4pm. Followed by tea and refreshments. Piano recital by Alan Dorn. Free admission, with donations to expenses welcome. pianoand-more.org.uk

MONDAY 14 AUG

Music: Annie KidsSummer School

Boxmoor Playhouse, Hemel Hempstead. To 18 Aug with a performance on 19 Aug, for children aged 7-16 years. www.hhtheatreco.com

SATURDAY 19 AUG

Dance: The Wild Welcome Temperance Hall, Christchurch Road, Tring,

What our readers say:

7.30pm. Every 4 weeks on Saturday. Welcome your wild side with music, movement and free dance. templeofourtime@gmail. com

SUNDAY 20 AUG

Markets & Sales: Berkhamsted Farmers Market High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-2pm. Third Sunday of every month. An opportunity for local customers to buy high quality produce direct from the producer. www. facebook.com/berkofm

Gardens: Open Garden PATCHWORK, Hall Park Gate, Berkhamsted HP4 2NJ. Opening for the National Garden Scheme, 2-5pm. Adults £5, children free. A blaze of colour from dahlias, fuchsias, begonias. Refreshments. Dogs on leads welcome. Plenty of seating and cover. www.ngs.org.uk

THURSDAY 31 AUG

Business: Berko Interchange

Waite & Rose Café Berkhamsted, 8.30-9.30am. Join David Milbourn and Ed Evans of Stringer Mann Chartered Financial Planners, for the Berko Interchange networking meeting. www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/berko-interchangetickets-547761187457

SATURDAY 2 SEP

Talks: Council of Women Temperance Hall, Christchurch Road, Tring, 7.30pm. A warm, welcoming group exploring what it means to be a woman in the 21st century. www.eventbrite. com/e/council-of-womentickets-559100543777

SUNDAY 3 SEP

Fundraisers: Chilterns Dog Rescue Society Dog Show St Leonard’s Hall and Field, Jenkins Lane, St Leonards, HP23 6NW. 12-4pm. Fun dog show, refreshments and stalls. chilternsdogrescue. org.uk

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