Living Magazines - Berkhamsted Summer 2025
Summer is finally here! It’s the time for holidays, and where better to travel but to the first joint European Capitals of Culture, Gorizia and Nova Gorica – find out more in our travel feature. There’s also a chance to win a family ticket to a wonderful new show at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Local history focuses on the lost watering holes of Berkhamsted, plus we look at the wonders of Wimbledon. As always, we include our local news, shop local section, and a calendar of forthcoming events. Visit our website for more at www.livingmags.info. The only local magazine offering guaranteed delivery to o 11,517* addresses in the HP4 Berkhamsted postcode area. *Royal Mail postcode data.
Summer is finally here! It’s the time for holidays, and where better to travel but to the first joint European Capitals of Culture, Gorizia and Nova Gorica – find out more in our travel feature. There’s also a chance to win a family ticket to a wonderful new show at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Local history focuses on the lost watering holes of Berkhamsted, plus we look at the wonders of Wimbledon. As always, we include our local news, shop local section, and a calendar of forthcoming events. Visit our website for more at www.livingmags.info. The only local magazine offering guaranteed delivery to o 11,517* addresses in the HP4 Berkhamsted postcode area. *Royal Mail postcode data.
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BERKHAMSTED
ISSUE 95 SUMMER 2025
LIVE | LIFE | LOCAL
SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES SINCE 2001
TIME GENTLEMEN
PLEASE!
The lost pubs of
Berkhamsted
WIMBLEDON
The wonders of the
world’s most famous
tennis tournament
GARDENS
The hidden
perils of popular
garden plants
The Crown Inn in the foreground,
with the Swan next door during
its time as a public house.
© Unknown/Alamy
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Welcome to the
Summer issue!
BERKHAMSTED
SUMMER 2025
o
The many sunny days since Lyn arrived
in the UK in early March have been so
welcome. Let’s hope they continue way
into summer and beyond.
It’s the time for holidays, and where better
to travel but to the first joint European
Capitals of Culture, Gorizia and Nova Gorica,
which straddle the two magnificent countries
of Italy and Slovenia. If you are staying
home, we have some weird tips for creative
gardeners, such as repurposing coffee
grounds as fertiliser. If you are renting a
home, we have ideas about what can be done
to alter the space so you still achieve a sense
of individuality and homeliness that can
often be missing.
Summer would not be summer without
Wimbledon. Read our special feature about
the heady first two weeks of July when the
dni
CONTENTS
4 News and views from
Berkhamsted and
surrounding villages
16 Shop local – before you head
online
19 Motoring – the truth about
manual gearbox tricks
20 The new and old wonders of
Wimbledon
23 The lost pubs of Berkhamsted
28 Garden plants with hidden
dangers
29 Unusual tips to keep your
garden growing
Down Under
deretrahC naM regnirt
great and the good of tennis – that’s players,
coaches and those who love their strawberries
and cream – descend on South-West London
for the greatest tournament the sport has to offer.
Our history feature focuses on some of
the pubs that have been lost to the past
in and around the town, as well as one
establishment’s mischievous ghosts. And with
her own ghostly experience in a former inn
on the other side of the world, you can read
more about Lyn’s supernatural experience in
this issue too.
Enjoy your summer reading.
Lyn and
Naomi
Owner & Editor
32 Make a rented property
feel like home
33 On-trend interiors ideas
34 Win a family theatre
ticket
35 Kids’ puzzles
36 How to help children
understand world issues
37 Students – make the most
of your final year
38 Codeword
39 Puzzle page
40 Crossword
41 A ghostly tale of an inn
42 10 ways to help you live
longer
44 Discover what your socks
say about you!
45 Travel to the joint European
Cities of Culture this
summer
46 Eclectic summer reads
from local authors
48 Seasonal treat –
try this summer
pudding recipe
50 What’s on
54 Local
Services
The only local magazine offering shrink-wrapped guaranteed delivery to 11,517* addresses in the HP4 postcode area,
by Royal Mail every quarter. *Royal Mail postcode data . Published quarterly in March, June, September & December
The Team: Publisher: Lyn Drummond / Editor: Naomi MacKay / Designer: Neil Randle
Registered Address: 376 High Street, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 1HU. Living Magazines are published by independent publisher Lyn Drummond.
CONTACT US
01442 824300
INFO@
LIVINGMAGS.INFO
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited without permission. The publisher will not be held responsible for
P s’semaJ .tS any errors ylno or omissions. stneserper Opinions expressed dna by fo authors evitatneserpeR and advertisers in this detniopA publication are not na specifically si endorsed by Living Magazines.
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Enjoy our heritage for free!
Booking opens this summer for the popular
Berkhamsted Heritage Open Days,
which see free walks and tours running
in September.
This year’s event runs from 12-21 September,
with the theme ‘Architecture’.
Berkhamsted History Society will once again
be hosting Heritage Open Days Walks and
Tours. There are new walks planned around
the architecture in Berkhamsted, as well as old
favourites such as Memories of the Foundling
Hospital, a visit to Berkhamsted Place, a tour
of St Peter’s Church and the Tudor Court
House, Canal walks, Amersfort Hall garden,
and a visit to The Old Hall and Chapel of
Berkhamsted School.
Booking opens on 18 August.
See the History Society website for dates and
times at https://berkhamsted-history.org.uk,
and book your free spot at www.eventbrite.co.uk.
While events are free, you must have booked
a place.
Award in the cards for Naomi
An 80-year-old Berkhamsted
tarot card reader has
won an award for her
continued contribution to charity
Comic Relief.
The Nosey Awards champion
those who have gone above and
beyond to raise life-changing
funds and spread joy across their
communities.
Naomi Stevens won the 2025 Solo Superstar
award, having raised over £4,000 since she began
fundraising for Comic Relief in 1985.
Her commitment began when, while
teaching computer skills as a single parent
to support her two daughters, she visited a
student’s office and discovered they were
supporting the first Red Nose Day. With her
tarot cards in hand, she spontaneously offered
a reading for a donation. Everyone loved
the idea and it quickly became a longrunning
tradition.
Naomi now arranges local sessions in the
lead-up to Red Nose Day, always arriving in
Comic Relief-themed outfits she has carefully
collected and customised over the years.
4 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
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Service Dogs UK launches New
Thames Valley Training Hub
Service Dogs
UK is urging
local Armed
Forces and Blue Light
veterans to contact
Veteran
Nick with
the charity for support
assistance
as it opens its new
dog Benji
training hub for
Herts/Bucks.
Service Dogs UK is a charity dedicated to
supporting Armed Forces and Emergency
Services veterans with PTSD (post-traumatic
stress disorder).
The charity partners with veterans to transform
dogs, mainly from rescue, into highly skilled
PTSD assistance dogs.
Veterans living with PTSD can apply to
be paired with a dog and learn how to navigate
daily life with greater independence
and confidence.
Visit www.servicedogsuk.org or contact
getintouch@servicedogsuk.org.
‘Lush’ prize up for grabs for Gavin & Stacey fans
What’s
occurrin’?
Well, a
rare piece of Gavin &
Stacey memorabilia
will go to the winner
of a raffle launched
by Herts-based
charity, DENS.
A call sheet
for the hit TV
show’s last-ever
scene, signed by the leading cast and featuring
a farewell message from creators James Corden
and Ruth Jones, has been donated to DENS by
star actor, Adrian Scarborough, in celebration
of his appointment as the charity’s first-ever
patron. The prize also includes a script of the
final episode.
The award-winning actor, known for playing
Pete in Gavin & Stacey, has also appeared in
Vera Drake, Gosford Park, Miranda and
The Chelsea Detective.
Reflecting on his new position at DENS,
Scarborough said: ‘It’s a true honour to become
the first ever patron of this amazing charity. I’ve
had the privilege of seeing the incredible work
they do to support vulnerable people across the
community – and their services are needed now
more than ever. I’m excited to work alongside
the great team at DENS and do whatever I can to
help grow their impact.’
DENS helps rebuild the lives of people facing
homelessness, poverty and social exclusion by
providing a range of vital, integrated services.
The raffle is now open, with entries costing £5
each. It closes on 30 July. See
https://bit.ly/dens-gavin-stacey for details.
6 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
Award recognises ‘dynamic duo’
Brian Buckell, a
dedicated volunteer
from Berkhamsted,
has been named Volunteer
of the Month by Hearing
Dogs for Deaf People.
The award recognises
volunteers who
consistently go the
extra mile, or who make
invaluable contributions
behind the scenes.
Brian and his wife Mary
were inspired to join
Hearing Dogs as volunteers
after attending a tour of the
charity’s southern training
centre in Saunderton. Inspired by what they saw,
they signed up to look after and train Kasper, a
cocker spaniel puppy.
Since then, Brian – affectionately known as
‘Uncle Brian’ – has become an indispensable
member of the Hertfordshire volunteering team.
Mary provides quiet, but invaluable support in
Berkhamsted Castle continues to attract
people, both to enjoy its beautiful location
and also to learn more about its almost
1,000 years of history, in which it has been
owned by kings, queens, princes and princesses,
as well as having connections with the likes of
Geoffrey Chaucer and Thomas Becket.
Until the end of September, at weekends and
bank holidays, there will be exhibits detailing
this long history. In addition, stewards will be on
site to answer any questions you may have.
the background, supplying everyone with her
amazing baking.
Recognising a need among his fellow
volunteers, Brian created his own bespoke doggy
daycare and walking service, offering crucial
support for those attending appointments where
they are unable to take their dogs with them.
Victoria Leedham, head of volunteering for
Hearing Dogs said: ‘Brian’s personal kindness
knows no bounds, and supported by wife Mary,
they form a dynamic duo who could not be more
highly regarded and appreciated within our
Hertfordshire volunteer community’.
Brian said he and Mary were overwhelmed,
but extremely proud: ‘It’s an absolute privilege
to help these incredible pups grow into fullytrained
partners for deaf people. I’ve been
fortunate enough to meet several Hearing Dog
recipients and, without fail, they’ve all said the
same thing, “Thank you so much – my hearing
dog has changed my life’’.’
Find out more about volunteering at
volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk or call
01844 348129.
Still time to learn about Berkhamsted
Castle’s history
So, if you have always wondered why William
the Conqueror’s half-brother decided to build a
castle at Berkhamsted or simply why there is so
little of the castle walls remaining, then you have
time to pay a visit.
The castle is open every day 10am to 6pm until
25 October; after that it closes at 4pm.
LOCAL
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Summer 2025 / 7
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Berkhamsted among ‘best places to live’
Berkhamsted
has been
named in The
Sunday Times Best
Places to Live
2025 guide.
Berkhamsted
was the only
Hertfordshire location out of 72 included.
Chorleywood and St Albans featured in 2024.
Petersfield, Hampshire, was the regional
winner for the Southeast of England, and
Saffron Walden, Essex, best in the UK.
Describing Berkhamsted, the guide said:
‘Berkhamsted is the perfect chichi commuter
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town, with easy links to London for work or play
but plenty to keep you busy closer to home.
‘It’s surrounded by lovely Chilterns
countryside, has a healthy historic pedigree but
also a buzzy café culture and lots of sporty and
wellness activities.
‘There’s more than a dash of culture,
too, notably at the Rex Cinema, as well as
two theatres, an art society and various
music groups.’
The newspaper’s judges visited all the locations
and assessed factors from schools to transport,
broadband speeds, and mobile signals to culture,
as well as access to green spaces and the health
of the high street.
‘We talk to locals to find out what they love
most about the places they call home,’ said
the guide’s editor Helen Davies. ‘This could
be anything from high-achieving schools and
reliable commuter links to cafés and culture or
somewhere wonderful to walk the dog. More
than anything else, what we are looking for are
towns, villages and cities with strong, hardworking
communities who love where they live.’
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A golden opportunity
Rennie Grove Peace
Hospice Care is
appealing for
donations of gold and
silver jewellery, coins, watches
and silverware to raise money
to fund local hospice care.
Barrie has been volunteering
with the charity for around 15
years. After starting as a volunteer in one of the
charity’s shops, he later offered to share his 30
years’ experience as an antiques dealer to help
the charity realise the value of donations of
jewellery, silver and other precious metals.
All donations that are received in the
charity’s shops within Buckinghamshire and
Hertfordshire are sent to the retail hub where
Barrie assesses, values, cleans and mends
donations as required.
Items can be donated to the charity’s retail
support hub, Bainbridge House (2 Northbridge
Rd, Berkhamsted), on Tuesdays and Thursdays
from 10am-4pm or to any Rennie Grove Peace shop
between 10am-4pm each day that the shop is open.
Get back to nature
Rectory Lane
Cemetery will be
taking part in
Berkhamsted’s Great Big
Green Week with its
Great Big Nature Hunt.
The event, on Saturday
15 June from 10am-1pm, is specially designed
for families. Knowledgeable volunteer guides
will help children to discover wildlife: newts,
tadpoles and other pond dwellers, insects,
butterflies, bumblebees, honey bees, trees.
Living Magazines wins
Prestige award
Berkhamsted &
Tring Living
Magazines
are proud to
announce that we
have been named
Lifestyle Magazine
Publication of the Year – Hertfordshire at the
South England Prestige Awards 2024/2025.
This latest accolade recognises our commitment
to delivering high-quality, engaging, and
relevant content to the local communities of
Berkhamsted and Tring. It follows our recent
success at the Southern Enterprise Awards,
where we were honoured as Best Community
Magazine Publisher 2024 – Hertfordshire.
The South England Prestige Awards celebrate
independent businesses and organisations
that consistently excel in their industry, with
winners chosen for their dedication to service,
innovation, and community impact.
We are incredibly grateful to our readers,
advertisers, and contributors, whose support
allows us to continue producing magazines
that truly reflect and celebrate life in our
wonderful towns.
Thank you for being part of our journey –
we look forward to bringing you even more
great content in the year ahead!
Children can get creative and make mini nature
collections and everybody will be able to enjoy
home-made refreshments.
The event is free but donations will be
appreciated to help keep this community
space going. Book your free places at
https://tinyurl.com/2s3fmzxc
10 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
Knitters tell the Longest Yarn
LOCAL
Volunteer knitters from across the world
have contributed to a wall art exhibition
that will be unveiled at Chiltern Open Air
Museum in August.
The Britain at War exhibition – The Longest
Yarn 2 – will feature 61 panels all made by
the volunteers.
Britain at War examines how Britain navigated
the war from 3 September, 1939 to VE Day on
8 May, 1945. The panels show all aspects of life,
including rationing, evacuees, The Blitz, terrible
headlines, when Britain was looking at ‘The
Darkest Hour’, and the euphoria when peace was
declared. The exhibition runs from 2-31 August.
Find out more at www.coam.org.uk
Have a laugh and a curry…
In July 2023, the Ashlyns Festival was
unexpectedly affected by adverse weather,
requiring the ASA (Ashlyns School’s PTA)
to pivot and adapt a key fundraising event. The
outdoor Saturday Festival was cancelled, but the
ever-popular (sell-out) Comedy & Curry Night
was relocated inside the historical building of
Ashlyns School.
Friday 11 July will see the sixth Comedy &
Curry Night, with another stellar line-up of
professional comedians, ensuring a night
of laughter, fabulous freshly-cooked curries
courtesy of Culinera, and a fully licensed bar.
The line-up, menu, and tickets are available at
https://ashlynsfestival.co.uk.
‘The Festival traditionally kicks off with
Friday’s Comedy Night, and we hope to continue
into Saturday with various community-led
fundraisers (watch this space),’ said Dhrooti
Mills, Ashlyns Festival lead.
The ASA is eager to build stronger partnerships
with local businesses, offering sponsorship
opportunities with a chance to showcase your
business. Your support could make all
the difference with its fund-raisers,
which are vital in helping to provide
tools and experiences to enrich the
education of Ashlyns students.
Email asa@ashlyns.herts.sch.uk.
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Save the date: Friday 11 July
Pre-show drinks and
food from 6pm
Acts on stage from 8pm
Drinks interval between
every set
Ian Stone Nevermind the Buzzcocks and
Live a the Comedy Store
Zoe Lyons Mock The Week and Live At The Apo lo
Jonny Awsum Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist
Mark Row Circuit regular and your MC
Ashlyns School, Berkhamsted Strictly over 18s only
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A
project to restore
ancient woodland has
reached its next stage
at Ashridge, with the planting
of 1,600 trees.
The project to restore 42
hectares of ancient woodland
has seen the National Trust
carefully removing non-native
conifers from some of the
most inaccessible and
ecologically vulnerable
parts of the landscape.
Matthew L’Estrange, area
ranger at Ashridge Estate, said:
‘Over the past two years, with
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1,600 trees set to be planted at Ashridge
more sunlight reaching the forest floor, natural
regeneration has already begun in the woodland,
leading to exciting ecological improvements.
The rare spotted flycatcher has returned, and
primroses and foxgloves have emerged from the
woodland floor and are now flowering.’
This year, work is underway to replant
Ringshall Copse with a mix of native broadleaf
species, including oak, hornbeam, crab apple,
hawthorn, cherry, hazel and lime trees.
Matthew added that as the trees establish, he
would expect to see an increase in other wildlife
such as bats, butterflies, bees and hoverflies.
Other areas of the estate will be subject to
similar projects in the next few years.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate
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Luton airport expansion gets green light
Plans to
expand Luton
Airport,
almost doubling
its annual capacity
to 32 million
passengers, have
been approved.
The Planning Inspectorate had recommended
that the plans be rejected on environmental
grounds, but Transport Secretary Heidi
Alexander announced the approval of the
expansion in April.
It’s estimated that the airport could see 77,000
more flights a year than last year – with planes
flying over every 15 minutes, rather than once
every half hour as they do currently.
The airport expansion will see new airside and
landside facilities, and a new terminal built on
the site.
Luton Borough Council has also stated that
the expansion could create 6,000 jobs in Beds,
Herts and Bucks (as part of 11,000 new jobs
across the country).
Victoria Collins, MP for Harpenden &
Berkhamsted, said the decision was ‘a major
blow’ for our local community.
‘It’s set to raise noise pollution levels for local
residents, add pressures to our infrastructure
and inhibit the fight against the climate crisis,
in a move experts have already suggested won’t
improve growth.’ she said.
‘It’s alarming not only for the trajectory of
cutting carbon emissions and protecting our
local environment, but will be deeply worrying
for areas across Harpenden and Berkhamsted
already plagued by noise pollution. For the three
years prior to 2019 we saw Luton Airport violating
their aircraft noise limits, and with added capacity
this issue is only set to worsen,’ she added.
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Berkhamsted
Sports Grounds
Charitable
Association has
welcomed Berkhamsted
Bowls Club to its
membership, joining
other premier sports
clubs of the town.
The club is a flat lawn
bowls club situated in the
centre of Berkhamsted
next to the tennis and
football clubs. It is
celebrating its 40th
anniversary this year, and over the decades has
risen to being one of the finest clubs in the
county, thanks to the quality of its facilities and
bowls green.
The club has enjoyed competitive success at
District, County and even National level. The
Pub pours itself into the record books
Berkhamsted pub
The Lamb has
made history
and become a new
Guinness World Records
title holder – joining
Heineken and 114 pubs
and breweries across the UK to set a unique
world record for the most people pulling a pint at
exactly the same time.
The Big Pour saw 114 pubs across the country
pour pints of Heineken 0.0 and Heineken
simultaneously and in perfect sync. All involved
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Bowls club joins sports association
bowls club also celebrates diversity, counting
the world bowls blind champion Sarah Marshall,
who has been winning competitions out
in South Africa and New Zealand, among
its membership.
Berkhamsted Bowls Club is a progressive club,
which engages with the community through
experiences on and off the green. It welcomes all
ages and abilities to ‘come and have a go’, so they
can see for themselves what this relaxing but
competitive sport can do for their mental and
physical wellbeing.
The club joins the other members of BSG:
Berkhamsted Football Club, Berkhamsted
Raiders Community Football Club, Berkhamsted
Lawn Tennis and Squash Racquets Club,
Berkhamsted Golf Club, Berkhamsted Cricket
Club, Berkhamsted & Hemel Hempstead Hockey
Club and Berkhamsted Rugby Club.
For information about the BSG charity see
www.bsgca.org
are now the proud holders of the Guinness
World Records title for the most people pulling a
pint online simultaneously.
This modern record attempt was made possible
through online videos, as 114 publicans and pub
managers from Scotland to Surrey, joined The
Lamb to pour their pints together in real time
under the watchful eyes of an official Guinness
World Records adjudicator.
The Big Pour celebrates the installation of
Heineken 0.0’s 1,000th tap, making Heineken 0.0
the most widely available 0.0% beer on draught,
with more installations than any other brand.
14 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
Local plan inspectors appointed
The Secretary of State has appointed
Inspector Thomas Bristow BA Msc
MRTPI and Inspector Matthew
Birkinshaw BA (Hons) Msc MRTPI to carry out
the independent examination of Dacorum’s
Local Plan.
Dacorum Borough Council submitted its local
plan for the sustainable growth of the borough
to the government in March.
The independent planning inspectors
will assess whether the local plan has been
properly prepared, is effective, and aligns with
national policies.
The examination will take place over the
next few months, and will include a series of
public hearings.
A final decision may not be reached until early
2026, and if deemed sound, the local plan will be
presented to the Council for adoption.
Cllr Adrian England, portfolio holder for place
Controversy, drama – and Winnie the Pooh!
The Arts Society Gade Valley opens its
2025/26 lecture season this September,
promising a fascinating journey through
art, history and culture. Whether you’re drawn
to the gritty realism of New York’s Ashcan
painters, the controversy surrounding the Elgin
Marbles or the drama of 19th-century opera,
expert speakers will bring these topics vividly
to life.
This season’s highlights include an exclusive
behind-the-scenes look at international auction
houses, revealing the intrigue of the art market,
and a special lecture celebrating the centenary
of Winnie the Pooh, exploring the legacy of this
much-loved literary icon.
The society meets at Potten End Village Hall on
the third Wednesday of the month at 10.30am,
offering thought-provoking lectures, lively
discussion, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere,
whether you’re a long-standing member or new
to the society.
at Dacorum Borough Council, commented: ‘This
local plan is a vital step forward in ensuring
that Dacorum grows in a coherent, sustainable
and protected way. It provides the framework to
achieve that, and I am confident that it will stand
up to scrutiny in the examination process.
‘Our communities deserve developments
that are well-integrated, supported by the right
infrastructure, and considerate of the needs of
both current and future residents.
‘This plan sets out a clear vision for the
borough’s future, balancing the need for homes
and economic development with the protection
of our environment and local character.
‘Finally, I would like to add a big thank you to
everyone who responded, and a special thanks to
our staff who have worked tirelessly on this.’
You can view a copy of the submission at
https://letstalk.dacorum.gov.uk/hub-page/
newlocalplan
For full details on the
programme and membership, visit
theartssocietygadev.org.uk or email
membersgadev@gmail.com.
LOCAL
SHOP LOCAL
Don’t just head
online, visit your
local High Street.
Here’s some
ideas!
01
02
04
05
03
08
09
06
07
xx
10
11
12
13
14
16 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
LOCAL
15 16 17
Bailey & Sons - Berkhamsted
01 Et Toi Moi laboratory grown engagement
ring £POA
02 9ct gold Organic pendant £370
03 Silver gold plate enamel Copenhagen
earrings £45
Debbie Shrimpton Illustrates -
Berkhamsted
04 Bespoke illustration commissions from
£150
05 Loved local landmark framed prints £55
Fancy That - Tring
06 Jellycat summer from £23
07 Jellycat Mooliet £30 Board book £9.50
08 Lined journal £8
09 Large strawberry jug £22.50
Gems and Jules - Tring
10 Sterling silver butter knife cuff £245
11 Sterling silver ornate sugar tong
bracelet £110
12 Sterling silver gingko cuff £108
18
Notion Jewellery - Tring
13 Silver bracken pendant 18-inch chain £61
14 Silver small beech leaf pendant 18-inch
chain £54
Puddingstone Distillery - Tring
15 Box Moor Gin £40 (£2 from the sale of
every bottle goes to the Box Moor Trust)
Vinegar Hill - Berkhamsted
16 Empire Gin Glasses set of 2 £23.50
17 Beach Bag £43.99
18 Jamida Drinks Tray £39.99
Whilst we have made every effort to ensure these details are correct,
you must confirm directly with the retailer.
Contact advertising@livingmags.info to find out how you can
promote your local seasonal products here for free.
What our advertisers say:
I just wanted to say a massive ‘THANK YOU’ for
adding our charity information to your magazine.
We have gained 4 extra volunteers so far just from
the one editorial piece and I cannot thank you
enough for helping to make this happen!
Hector’s House
What our advertisers say:
Always very helpful, used for years
for my advertising.
A Aerial Fix
What our advertisers say:
Being part of a publication that is delivered
directly to peoples' homes via a reliable postal
service is really important to us as a small
business that has a supportive local customer
base. We find it useful to have a presence in
print media as well as online to strengthen
our position reaching those not online and
increase touch points for those who engage
with us on and off line.
Puddingstone Distillery
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 17
MICHAEL
Notes of
spice, juniper
HANNABY
and citrus with a
hint of colour
and sweetness
without the use
of sugar
Notes of
spice, juniper
and citrus with a
hint of colour
and sweetness
without the use
of sugar.
FURNITURE RESTORATION
07989 672 610
CAMPFIRE CASK AGED GIN
Head over to our distillery shop on
Friday or Saturday to discover
our full range of award winning gins.
PUDDINGSTONE DISTILLERY
Wilstone, Tring, Herts HP23 4NT
puddingstonedistillery.com
What our
advertisers say:
We always know when we
stop advertising as our
enquiry levels drop off.
Quite considerably.
Tierra Designs
What our readers say:
One of the few things I do
read that comes through
the door because of its
local content and it has a
really good look and feel as
'hard copy'.
Chris
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The only magazine
delivering to every
single postcode
in Berkhamsted
Serving the community and
supporting local businesses
since 2001
The truth about manual gearbox
tricks – do they actually work?
Coasting
The idea: By shifting into neutral and letting
the car coast, you reduce engine load and
save fuel.
The reality: This technique was more
relevant in older carburettor cars, where
cutting the fuel supply completely wasn’t
always an option.
Modern fuel-injected cars, however,
automatically reduce fuel delivery when the
throttle is closed, meaning coasting actually
wastes fuel rather than saving it.
Worse, it removes engine braking, reducing
control and increasing wear on your brakes.
Oh, and coasting downhill is technically
illegal under Rule 122 of the Highway Code, as
it reduces control over the vehicle, so best
avoid this one!
Double-Clutching
The idea: This involves pressing the clutch,
shifting to neutral, releasing the clutch, then
pressing it again before shifting into the next
gear. It’s supposed to improve gear changes
and reduce wear on the gearbox.
The reality: This was essential in older cars
with non-synchronised transmissions, but
today’s modern synchros do the job for you.
While double-clutching
can reduce wear slightly
and smoothen shifts in
certain performance or
classic cars, for everyday
driving it’s unnecessary.
Short-Shifting
The idea: Changing
up gears earlier than
usual to keep revs low
and save fuel.
The reality: This one
actually works… to a
point. Keeping revs too low
can strain the engine and lead to
‘lugging,’ which isn’t great for performance or
efficiency, but shifting up smoothly and
sensibly (without labouring the engine) can
improve fuel economy.
ALL THE GEAR,
NO IDEA?
Rev-Matching on Downshifts
The idea: Blipping the throttle when
downshifting to match engine speed to the
lower gear, ensuring a smoother transition.
The reality: This works, reducing drivetrain
shock, making downshifts smoother and
kinder to your gearbox. It won’t save you fuel,
but it can extend the life of your clutch and
make for a much more enjoyable drive.
Engine Braking
The idea: Using the engine’s resistance to
slow the car down instead of relying solely on
the brakes.
The reality: A good technique when used
properly. Modern engines shut off fuel when
decelerating in gear, making this an efficient
way to slow down. Plus, it reduces brake wear.
However, relying on it too much can cause
excessive wear on your gearbox, so balance is key.
Living Magazines
Summer 2025 / 19
WHO TO WATCH AT
WIMBLEDON
The first two weeks of
July sees the great and
the good of tennis – that’s
players, coaches and
those who love their
strawberries and cream
– descend on South-West
London for the greatest
tournament the sport has
to offer
Regardless of whether you’re a tennis
enthusiast or not, the word ‘Wimbledon’
evokes visions of blazing summer sun
warming up verdant grass courts, glasses of
champagne and a flurry of fine fashion (also,
possibly, the Wombles if you are of a certain age).
Yet for those participating, it is a
thing of bright anticipation and
hope, for to conquer the oldest
tennis tournament in the word (the
first championship was held in 1877) is to
truly be a master of your game.
Men
Novak Djokovic
He is widely considered as the
GOAT (greatest of all time) and
his July appearance will be the
20th since his 2003 debut.
Yet will the super Serb
claim his eighth Wimbledon
title, or at 38 years old – and
with big rival Carlos Alcaraz looking to make
it three victories on the spin – will this be the
sunset of his illustrious career?
Current ranking: 5
Total grand slams (as of March 2025): 24
Wimbledon wins: 7
Jannik Sinner
He’s the Italian sensation who
has quickly become a household
name, and in 2024 the ambitious
23-year-old had one of the
greatest seasons any player
has ever had in the history
of the sport, winning the US
and French titles and climbing to no.1 in
the world.
Having played Wimbledon six times, he will
have his eye on the big prize this year.
Current ranking: 1
Total grand slams (as of March 2025): 2
Wimbledon wins: 0
Women
Elena Rybakina
The impressive Russia-born
Kazakhstani shot to fame after
her stunning victory at
Wimbledon in 2022. Since the
start of her professional career
in 2014, she has made almost
constant progress and hopes are high that this
may be a repeat of her 2022 triumph.
Current ranking: 8
Total grand slams (as of March 2025): 1
Wimbledon wins: 1
Aryna Sabalenka
The Belarusian bombshell is
one of the most famous tennis
players in the world. With a
career that boasts three major
singles titles – 2024 US Open
and Australian Open wins in
2023 and 2024, as well as two
major doubles titles (2019 US Open and 2021
Australian Open). However, Wimbledon
remains elusive and her 2024 withdrawal
from the tournament after a shoulder injury,
will make her hungrier still. Could this be
the year?
Current ranking: 1
Total grand slams (as of March 2025): 3
Wimbledon wins: 0
WIMBLEDON
20 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
THE
WONDERS
OF WIMBLEDON
WIMBLEDON
We may not always
win – in fact we very,
very rarely do! –
but over the years,
British tennis players
have always helped
make Wimbledon the
magical experience
it is
WIMBLEDON
Henman the hopeful
Talented and adored as he was,
the chips never fell the way
Tim Henman would have
liked. But Wimbledon was the
stage for the Brit’s most
memorable performances, and
‘Tiger Tim’ was never short of
fans cheering him on.
He reached the SW19 semi-finals four times
(1998, 1999, 2001 and 2002), each time igniting
hopes of a British champion at the All England
Club. Despite never getting over the line, his
consistent performances and unwavering
determination made him a national icon, and
Henman Hill is the name many still use when
referring to the viewing area grounds where
pass users can watch the on-court action.
Fred Perry the legend
Most young people of today
associate the name Fred Perry
with very trendy polo shirts,
but the man himself is
arguably the most iconic
British tennis player in history.
Born in 1909, Perry’s career spanned a brief
but triumphant period in the 1930s. He won
three Wimbledon titles (1934, 1935 and 1936)
and achieved the rare feat of securing all four
Grand Slam singles titles by winning the
Australian Open, French Open and US Open.
Perry’s prowess and determination on the
court made him a global tennis superstar, but
for us Brits, Perry – the son of a cotton
spinner – represented hope and ambition for
anyone who sets their mind to it.
Murray the man of the hour
It’s 20 years since the
now-retired super Scot turned
pro, and what an exceptional
list of accomplishments he
tucked under his belt during
those two decades.
Murray finally got his major
breakthrough at the 2012 US
Open, where he claimed his inaugural Grand
Slam title by defeating Novak Djokovic in a
thrilling five-set match.
This victory made him the first British man
to win a Grand Slam singles title since the
aforementioned Fred Perry in 1936.
Within a year, Murray achieved what many
consider his greatest triumph by winning
Wimbledon. Victory over Djokovic in the final
ended Britain’s 77-year wait for a male
Wimbledon champion.
He won another Wimbledon title in 2016 and
also secured two Olympic golds for Team GB in
2012 and 2016. Not bad for a wee lad from Glasgow.
The young radical, Raducanu
Born in 2002, Brit superstar
Raducanu burst onto the
global tennis scene with her
extraordinary victory at the
US Open in 2021. At just 18
years old, she became the first
qualifier in history to win a
Grand Slam singles title, and
while injury and the pressures
of fame have thwarted further significant
rewards, her youth and determination make
her a hopeful for the future of British tennis.
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 21
RS0634
Happiness
is a home designed with you in mind
Find your
nearest
community
Welcoming features at our
retirement developments
Every McCarthy Stone development is cleverly
designed to make life easier - now and in years
to come. With sought-after locations, friendly
communities and helpful on-site staff, you really
can live life your way.
You'll also be free of the burden of maintaining an
older property is a garden that's too much to
manage. Instead, you've move time to do more of
the things you love.
But don't just take our word for it, come and see for
yourself and find out more about our developments
near you. We'd love to show you the benefits of
living in one of our communities. Visits are by
appointment only and we look forward to showing
you around.
Call 0800 185 5674
to find out more or visit
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LOCAL
HISTORY
Old Grey Mare
Images: with thanks to Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society
TIME
GENTLEMEN
PLEASE!
If you did a pub crawl around Berkhamsted
now, you’d have imbibed more pints than
most of us could handle, but Berkhamsted
has seen many more licensed premises over
the years that are no longer in operation.
According to historians, The Swan’s location
on the junction between the old Roman Road
Akeman Street (High Street) and the main
route between Berkhamsted and Windsor
Castle (Chesham Road) suggests it could
have been one of the town’s earliest inns.
Members of the Northchurch Football Club,
which was was formed in 1904, had no changing
facilities, so used to change in the chalet at the
rear of the Old Grey Mare
Berkhamsted and
surrounding villages are
blessed with plenty of
watering holes, but back in
the annals of history there
were even more inns…
During the 18th century most inns and ale
houses brewed their own beer, and the Swan’s
brewhouse was at the back, on what was
known as Grubbs Lane.
John Edward Lane senior (1808 –1889) is
well known in the town’s history. He was
a horticulturalist who built up the family
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 23
business, John Lane Nurseries (where Wood’s
Garden Centre is on the High Street). The
company name was recognised across the
country, and was well known for its awardwinning
roses, fruit trees, shrubs, and
bedding plants. The Nurseries even bred
a special apple variety – the Lane’s Prince
Albert apple – to mark the 1841 visit of Queen
Victoria and Prince Albert to Berkhamsted.
John Edward Lane was quite an
entrepreneur, and he also had a side hustle in
brewing beer, He bought a number of inns in
Berkhamsted, including The Swan.
You can find John’s gravestone in Rectory
Lane Cemetery.
In more recent history, the Swan became
one of the town’s principal hotels, but closed
in the 1980s, and is now home to the Swan
Youth Project charity, which supports local
young people.
The Boote Inn was at 37 Castle Street. In
1871, Mary Margrave was listed as licensee.
Her stepchildren had a rather sad history.
One of them, John Margrave, is also buried
in Rectory Lane Cemetery. There were seven
children, and their father George was a
shoemaker and a beer retailer. Their mother
(also called Mary Ann) died in 1841, when
John was only 10. His younger sister Ann
died the same year, and the children were
distributed to relatives – John and his brother
George to his paternal grandparents in the
High Street, while 16-month-old Sarah went
to her maternal grandparents in Northchurch.
Joseph, 16, and Elizabeth, 14, and Thomas, five,
stayed with their father.
In 1844, John’s father married again, to another
Mary Ann, and they had five more children.
John continued as a shoemaker, got married
and had seven children. He was declared
bankrupt in 1869 and unsuccessfuly tried
to follow his father into the licensed trade,
by taking on the tenancy of The Swan in
Dudswell, but was refused a licence.
The Boote closed after the First World War
and became a bric a brac shop.
Like the Boote, so many closed-down
pubs have second (and maybe third) lives in
different incarnations. The ale house the Fox
The Boote
The Swan
The
Gardener’s
Arms (left) in
Castle Street
is one of a
pair of mid-
19th century
houses
originally built
as ale houses
but first used
as shops
24 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
The White Hart
and Hounds sat next to Grooms the bakers,
in Potten End. When it closed it became a
transport cafe, called Fred’s Cafe.
Of course some buildings are no longer
there. Take the White Hart, which sat next
to the Town Hall and was built in 1861 to
echo the style of its neighbour, designed by
architect Edward Buckton Lamb, who has
been described, as being in the ‘Rogue-Goth’
camp of architecture. Two cottages owned
by Berkhamsted School were demolished
to make way for the inn, and it’s believed
to be on the site of an even older inn – the
medieval Saracen’s Head, which became the
George during the reign of Henry VIII and
was renamed the Prince’s Arms in 1806.
The Highfield road area was a good
place to buy a drink – at the top was the
Chaffcutter’s Arms, the drinking den
of choice for local farm labourers. An
interesting mix of bare-fist fighters and
businessmen frequented the nearby
Five Bells, and with circuses held behind
it, surely there would have been some
interesting clientele at the Red Lion too.
The Royal Oak was a small alehouse next
to the Sayer almshouses, and when you tired
of that you could cross the road to the Star
and Garter.
The Riser picks up prize
Berkhamsted pub The Rising Sun, has
been named Mid-Chilterns Campaign for
Real Ale (CAMRA) Cider Pub of the Year.
The pub, known by locals as The Riser,
impressed both with its extensive
range of ciders and its location and
atmosphere. This Victorian alehouse on
the Grand Union Canal (at lock 55) has
been around since the 1850s.
As it announced the award, Mid-
Chilterns CAMRA said: ‘The Rising Sun is
known locally as a bastion of inclusivity,
an ethos that quite literally trickles down
to the pub’s incredible drinks selection.
A back bar of exotic spirits and liquors
accompanies an award-winning range of
cask ales and keg beers. And then there’s
the ciders.
‘We’re confident that The Rising Sun
could be in the top 10 cider pubs across
the UK. A cellar of close to 20 changing
ciders offer the drinker a choice of
traditional styles, fruit flavoured tipples,
modern fancies and rare perrys to boot.
‘When paired with a freshly renovated
beer garden and gorgeous canalside
exterior, the pub’s cider and perry
offering make ‘The Riser’ an absolute
staple of summertime imbibing
(recommended in all seasons, in fact!).’
As we’ve mentioned, Berkhamsted was
on the main route to and from London, so
coaching inns were plentiful and they had
their fair share of noble visitors. The Red Lion
offered accommodation and stables to weary
travellers, but out of sight of its wealthy
visitors was Red Lion Yard, which had a very
different story. There were up to 18 little
cottages behind the pub at one time, rented
out as tenements to families. In 1886, the
overcrowding of the homes had caught the
attention of the sanitary authority,
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 25
The Black Horse was known by the insalubrious
name The Doss House, even as late as the 1960s.
In 1839 it was listed as being owned by Sarah Cox
and William Pocock. It closed in the 1980s and is
now The Curry Garden
according to the Bucks Herald: ‘The Inspector
reported several houses in Red Lion Yard,
Berkhampstead, as being over-crowded,
and orders were made in the cases of Thos.
Belcher, George Kingston… and Emma
Dolling to abate the overcrowding.’ Typhoid
was reported in 1874, and by 1886, a Dr.
Saunders stated that four houses there were
‘filthy and dilapidated, and quite unfit for
human habitation’.
Still open for business
The Bull is the town’s oldest operating pub
and dates back to some time before 1535
(When Henry VIII was on the throne). After the
construction of the Grand Union Canal at the
end of the 18th century, it was mostly used by
working canal folk and had bunks in its rafters
for sleeping stop-overs. The cellar is said to be
haunted by two mischievous boys – who like
to grab people’s ankles and trip them up – and
even turn off the gas when the pub is busy
serving customers!
Turn to page 41, to read our new publisher Lyn
Drummond’s tale of the haunted inn she owned
in Australia!
In 1889 the Red Lion pub was sold to Edwin
East, who ran an antique shop until the
building was demolished in 1939.
As late as 1911, there were still 15 cottages
housing 77 people in Red Lion Yard.
Running club
raises thousands
for local hospice
A
local running club, founded over a
decade ago by Paul Owen, a partner
at Machins Solicitors and family law
specialist, has quietly become a force for good
– raising over £23,000 in donations for The
Hospice of St Francis.
Paul, who has completed more than 100
marathons and authored two books on running,
started the club with a simple idea: bring people
together to enjoy running while supporting a
good cause. Since then, more than 300 runners
have taken part. Around 30 runners meet every
Wednesday, exploring a mix of road and trail
routes in and around Berkhamsted and Tring,
improving fitness and enjoying plenty of laughs
along the way.
There’s no joining fee – just a simple tradition:
each week, runners pop a small donation for
the hospice into the boot of Paul’s car. These
contributions have added up to vital funds
supporting the hospice’s care.
But for Paul, the best part of the club isn’t the
routes or the races – it’s the people: ‘We don’t
talk about work or bills – we talk shoes, gels, and
races! It’s a cracking mix of personalities and
abilities, and the support everyone shows one
another is what I really love.’
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just
starting out, all are welcome.
To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/
TheHospiceRunningClub or email
paul.owen@machins.co.uk
Award Winning Family Solicitors
Legal Excellence, Human Understanding
Separation & Divorce
Children
Mediation
Cohabitation
Financial Matters
Separation Agreements
Civil Partnerships
Pre & Post Nuptial Agreements
01442 872311 enquiries@machins.co.uk
machins.co.uk
Machins Solicitors LLP
Lockhart House
295-299 High Street
Berkhamsted HP4 1AJ
@machinslaw
@machinslaw
machinssolicitorsllp
POISON
IVY
alkaloids that can cause dilated
pupils, sensitivity to light,
blurred vision, tachycardia, loss
of balance, and hallucinations.
Ingesting even small amounts
can be fatal, but you can’t say
the name didn’t warn you.
Foxglove
The surprisingly poisonous plants
that are right here in the UK
Fans of Agatha Christie will be aware that
nefarious characters of yesteryear had a
penchant for poison. Terrifying
tinctures, savage serums and potions of ill
portent were popular in the periods before
modern medicine, and with the lack of
laboratories to create chemicals, apothecaries
and poisoners relied on humble plants to both
heal and kill.
Foxglove: A striking plant with tall spikes of
tubular flowers, often seen in gardens and
woodlands. Despite its allure (and charming
name), every part of the foxglove is highly
toxic. It contains compounds called cardiac
glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting,
hallucinations, and potentially fatal heart
problems.
Giant hogweed: An invasive species that can
reach up to 5 metres in height, its sap contains
toxic chemicals called furanocoumarins,
which can cause severe skin burns and
blistering when exposed to sunlight. Contact
with this plant should be avoided, and any
exposure should be treated with immediate
medical attention.
Deadly Nightshade: Also known as
belladonna, this plant bears attractive, shiny
black berries and purple bell-shaped
flowers. However, its beauty masks
a deadly secret; the entire plant is
highly toxic, containing tropane
Yew: The yew tree is a common sight
in churchyards and parks, known for its
evergreen foliage and red berries. But despite
its pleasant facade, all parts of the yew, except
for the flesh of the berries, contain toxic
alkaloids called taxines. These can cause
symptoms ranging from dizziness and dry
mouth to severe cardiac and respiratory
distress, potentially leading to death if
ingested. Who knew?
Monkshood: Also known as wolfsbane, this
is a tall, herbaceous plant with striking blue
or purple flowers. Despite its beauty, it is one
of the most poisonous plants in the UK. The
plant contains aconitine, a potent neurotoxin
that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea,
convulsions, and heart arrhythmias,
potentially leading to death. If you think you
monkshood, you definitely shouldn’t.
Lily of the valley: This delicate plant is
often associated with springtime and is
commonly used in floral arrangements.
However, it contains cardiac glycosides
similar to those found in foxglove. Ingesting
any part of the plant can lead to symptoms
such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and
irregular heartbeats.
Hemlock: Hemlock is a tall, branching plant
with small white flowers and fern-like leaves.
It is notorious for its role in the execution of
the philosopher Socrates. The plant contains
potent alkaloids, including coniine,
which can cause symptoms such as
muscle paralysis, respiratory failure,
and death. Not a smart way to die.
28 / Berkhamsted Living
Monkshood
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GARDENS
Sometimes the internet
makes suggestions
that are too strange
to be believable;
however, the following
gardening hacks are
actually pretty useful
TOTALLY WEIRD
TIPS
Coffee grounds
Let’s start with one that’s pretty well-known,
and that is repurposing coffee grounds as
fertiliser. They are rich in nitrogen, which is
great for your soil, and all you need to do is
simply scatter them around the base of your
plants or mix them into your compost pile.
Banana peels
You’ve heard of a rose among the thorns, but
have you heard of a rose among the banana
peels? Packed with potassium, which is
essential for plant health, burying banana
peels near the roots of your rose bushes will
promote lush blooms as the peels decompose
and release nutrients into the soil.
Eggshells
No one likes walking on eggshells, especially
pests like slugs and snails. Scatter the crushed
shells around the base of your plants. The
sharp edges will deter these pests, whilst also
providing calcium to your soil.
Fish poop
If you have an aquarium, don’t throw out the
dirty water during cleaning. This water is rich in
nutrients from fish waste and can be used to feed
your plants, giving them a natty nutrient boost.
Milk
Powdery mildew can be a common problem
for many plants. Use a mixture of one part
milk to two parts water and spray it on
affected plants. The milk helps to prevent the
fungus from spreading… weird but true!
Nappies
Place a clean, unused (it is important that
it is not used!) nappy at the bottom of your
plant pots before adding soil. The nappy will
help retain moisture, keeping your plants
hydrated longer.
Tin foil
Do plants believe in aliens? Who knows, but
they certainly appreciate the protective power
of tin foil. If you’re growing plants indoors
and they need more light, create a reflective
surface using tinfoil. Place the foil around
your plants to reflect light back onto them,
helping them grow stronger.
Human hair
Believe it or not, human hair can deter pests
like deer and rabbits. Scatter it liberally
around your garden and the scent will keep
these animals at bay.
Cinnamon
Sprinkle cinnamon on seedlings to prevent
damping-off disease, a fungal infection that
can kill young plants. Cinnamon has natural
antifungal properties that protect your plants,
with not a pumpkin-spiced latte in sight!
Citrus peels
Finally, save your citrus peels and use them as
biodegradable seedling pots. Fill the peel with
soil and plant your seed then, when it’s time
to transplant, you can plant the entire peel in
the ground. It will decompose, thus enriching
the soil.
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 29
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HOME IS
WHERE YOUR
ART
IS
Polaroid pictures will add a retro
feel and are a great way to
remember special moments. You
can also add a little cheer to your
fridge by attaching pictures with
magnets.
Tips to give a rental home a
little more of your personality
For many, renting is an inevitable aspect
of modern life. Yet the prohibitive nature
of what can and can’t be done to alter the
space can often take away that sense of
individuality and homeliness.
Fear not, with these top tips for perfect, nonpermanent
ways to brighten up the place, you
can be resplendent in your own surroundings
without risking that security deposit.
Lights
Ceiling lights tend to really suck the life out of a
room, which is why lamps are so good for creating
mood and style. Investing in a large lamp for
the lounge or a few well-placed desk lamps can
really help enhance personality of a space.
LED fairy lights have also become an
affordable option and come in a huge array of
styles and colours. A bundle of batterypowered
lights placed in a glass vase, or a
non-functioning fireplace, is a nifty style hack.
Snaps
Photos are a fantastic way to personalise a
place. If putting up a lot of picture frames is
problematic for your landlord, consider instead
a simple coloured string with photos
attached by tiny pegs.
Washi wonders
Washi tape is a versatile and colourful
tool that can be used to add a touch of
creativity to any room. Use it to frame pictures
or create geometric patterns on your walls.
You can also decorate your furniture, such as
outlining the edges of a bookshelf or adding
designs to a plain table, door or even just a lightswitch
fitting. And fret not, washi tape is easy
to remove, making it a perfect option for renters.
Throws and rugs
Another peril of renting can be ending up with
less-than-ideal upholstery and carpets, but the
solution is easy. Rugs can cover up grim and
worn carpets or floors, while throws and
blankets will conceal faded sofas and chairs.
Cushions are another great way to add
personal flair and, as an extra bonus, those
additional layers of fabric will protect the
property, saving you money on cleaning at
the end of the tenancy.
Plants
If your house is lacking lustre, get some
plants in there – you can use unconventional
containers like teacups, tin cans, or even old
shoes to house your plants.
Decorate the containers with paint, fabric
or other embellishments to give them a
unique touch. Not only do plants
brighten up the place and
create colour, but they
also purify the air:
double win.
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INTERIORS
The new frontier of home
interiors: sleeker, smarter,
greener, and all geared at
improving your quality of life
Celestial walls
If the state of the world today has you
wondering what it all means, then this trend
for celestial wallpaper may ease your
existential dread. Starry skies, suns, moons
and zodiac motifs all feature against that
ever-so-calming deep-blue backdrop
associated with the universe and all its
infinite secrets.
LATEST HOME
TRENDS
breathable fabric – with soft
lighting, curvaceous lines and
calming colours that soothe the
senses and soul.
Flex your tech
Our living spaces are becoming
smaller, but we are using them for more
things. This means that certain areas must be
used as workspaces without disrupting the
integrity of the room’s original use.
With that in mind, designers are becoming
more flexible, finding savvy ways to make our
homes adaptable without feeling as if you’re
living in the office. Coffee tables or consoles
that can fold out to become a desk, discreet
plug and USB sockets and lighting which can
be controlled from your phone in order to
create the desired mood (work, relax, play), are
just a few ways you can have both your
worlds existing comfortably side-by-side.
Living nature
An abundance of plant life, sustainable wood,
plenty of natural light and materials, which
remind us of the great outdoors (wool, stone
and granite), are all becoming effective ways
in which interior designers look to bring the
outside in. With many of us working from
home and the insulative nature of the digital
world, this is a great way to deepen your
connection with Mother Earth while still
staying connected.
Wellbeing wonders
Given the amount of time we spend in our
homes, it seems sensible that our
surroundings ought to be designed to boost
our health and happiness. Furniture that
combines style and ergonomic comfort is
essential – so neither that hard chaise longue
or enormous squishy settee, but something
in-between: a wooden-framed settee with
deep, soft cushions in a natural and
Serpent time
In the Chinese Zodiac it is the year of the
snake, but be not afraid, for wisdom,
elegance and transformation are all
represented by its seductive, slithering
form. Mirrors gilded with silver
serpents will have you channelling
Medusa and an abundance of reptilian
prints in wallpaper and art, remind us
of more glamorous times when snakeskin
handbags and cocktail hour reigned supreme.
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 33
Run away
with the
circus!
COMPETITION
We have a family ticket
for four for Cirque:
The Greatest Show –
Reimagined on Wednesday
6 August at Aylesbury
Waterside Theatre
Cirque - The Greatest Show has been
Reimagined and is back for 2025 –
bigger, bolder, and more electrifying than ever!
Get ready for a dazzling fusion of musical theatre and jaw-dropping circus
acts, taking the original circus-meets-musical-theatre spectacle to thrilling
new heights. Experience iconic West End showstoppers paired with
awe-inspiring circus acts showcasing their breathtaking feats of agility.
This all-new production promises to transport you on a vibrant,
kaleidoscopic journey bursting with colour, energy, and excitement. Featuring
stunning vocalists and world-class circus performers, this family-friendly
extravaganza is a must-see for 2025!
To enter our competition, answer the question below at
www.livingmags.info/competitions by 6 July 2025.
Who was the main subject of the movie
The Greatest Showman?
a) W.C. Fields b) P.T. Barnum c) J.K. Rowling
We have one family ticket (four tickets) to give away.
Terms & Conditions apply. Refer to website for details.
For your chance to win simply
answer the relevant question -
scan the QR Code or visit www.
livingmags.info/competitions
Spring winners: Tracy Lerpiniere and Charlotte Panayiotou each won a pair of tickets to the
Saturday show at Chilfest on July 5. Hope you enjoy it!
34 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
Connect
the
Dots
Transportation
Wordsearch
BIKE
BOAT
BUS
CAB
CAR
PLANE
SHIP
TRAIN
TRUCK
Transport
i-Spy
Count all the items in
the puzzle
PARENTING
In today’s interconnected
world, children are increasingly
exposed to global issues. As
parents, it is essential to guide
them in understanding these
complex topics in a way that is
age-appropriate, informative
and fun!
Work out where they’re at: Before diving
into discussions about global issues, it
is crucial to assess your child’s current
understanding and awareness, so ask openended
questions to gauge their knowledge
and feelings about the topic. This approach
not only helps you tailor the conversation, but
also ensures you glean any misconceptions or
fears they may have.
Environmental awareness: When you’re
ready, why not steer the conversation away
from terrors of global warming and instead
explain the positive effects of environmental
conservation, and how small, local actions can
make a big difference.
Discuss topics that your child can actively
change, such as climate change, pollution, and
wildlife preservation. Use examples such as
recycling, conserving water and protecting
animals to illustrate your points.
Understanding inequality: Discuss the
importance of fairness, justice and equality.
Talk about issues such as poverty,
discrimination and human rights. Use stories
and examples from around the world to
highlight the struggles and triumphs of
different communities, and focus on what
unites us rather than what divides us.
CHILDREN OF THE Be age-aware: Try to tailor
WORLD
all discussions to your child’s
age and developmental stage.
For younger children, use
simple language and concrete
examples they can relate to.
For older children, you can delve
deeper into the complexities and
encourage critical thinking.
Encourage curiosity: When they inevitably
come, create a safe space for your child to ask
questions. Guide their inquisitive minds and be
patient in addressing their inquiries. If you don’t
know the answer, it’s okay to admit it. Use it as
an opportunity to explore the topic together.
Instil empathy and compassion: Encourage
your child to empathise with people affected
by global issues. Discuss how they can
help, whether through charitable actions,
raising awareness, or simply being kind
and understanding. Highlight stories of
individuals who have made a positive impact,
inspiring them to believe in their ability to
contribute to change.
Reach out with role play: A great way
for helping your child’s understanding of
these themes is to work on role-playing
and hypothetical scenarios. This interactive
approach allows them to explore different
viewpoints and consider the consequences of
various actions.
This will also ensure important
learning such as this is accessible
and fun!
Utilise educational tools:
Finally, there are numerous
child-friendly resources
available that present global
issues in an engaging and
understandable manner. From websites to
children’s books and even puppet shows and
kids’ theatre experiences, it’s all out there for
parents devoted to making the next
generation truly global citizens.
EDUCATION
How to navigate that crucial last
year of university so that it can
most benefit your future
Your final year of university is a pivotal
time in your life, and not just because
it’s arguably your last chance to sample
the carefree realities of student life.
More than this, it is a period filled with
anticipation, opportunities and crucial
decisions that will shape your future. Having
said that, it can also bring a level of terror as
life outside academia looms large on the
horizon… which is why it’s worth thinking
early-on about what you hope to achieve.
Plot your career path: By your final year,
you should have a clearer understanding of
the career you wish to pursue. Take this time
to research the job market, refine your CV and
build your professional network.
Attend job fairs, consider creating an online
professional presence, and seek internships
that align with your career goals. Engaging
with alumni and attending industry
networking events can provide valuable
insights and connections.
Conquer your course: Your academic
performance in your final year can
significantly impact your future
opportunities. Aim to excel in your
coursework and complete any remaining
degree requirements with diligence. Seek help
from professors and utilise campus resources
like tutoring centres and study groups.
STEER YOUR
FINAL YEAR
Maintaining a strong academic
record can set you up for
graduate programmes,
scholarships, and job offers.
Broaden your horizons: If you
are passionate about a particular
field of study, consider pursuing
graduate studies. Research various graduate
programmes, their prerequisites, and application
deadlines. Preparing for standardised tests,
gathering recommendation letters, and crafting
a compelling statement of purpose are essential
steps in the application process. Preparation is key!
Discover new lands: If you are keen to
travel, studying abroad is a fantastic way to
experience a new culture and explore the
global job market, and many universities have
exchange programmes or partnerships with
international institutions.
Remember to research the curriculum,
course credits and language requirements of
the options you are interested in. Bear in mind
that studying abroad can be expensive, but
there are numerous scholarships and financial
aid options available. On that point, applying
for financial aid early can help alleviate the
financial burden.
Prepare for the final destination: Finally,
transitioning from university to the
professional world can be daunting. Take
advantage of career services offered by your
university, such as resumé workshops, mock
interviews, and job placement assistance. Start
your job search early, apply
for positions that align
with your career goals, and
prepare for interviews.
Mostly, relish the
challenge – the beginning
of something great where
new experiences await
around every corner.
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 37
Codeword
Each letter of the alphabet has been
replaced by a number shown in the grid,
with the first few entered for you.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 3 4 7
2 6 6 8
6 9 10 11 11 11 1 6 4 10
4 10 12 13 10 9
14 10 15 13 16 9 10 6 16 14 10
1 10 17 18 11 13 6 17
19 17 13 10
20 10 9 3 20 7 13 21
20 6 1 1 10 16 14 3 10 4 3
3 8 6 16 6 11
4 13 13 8 11 20 13 11 17 13
7 6 13 14
10 15 13 16 18 10 5 13 16 13 14
1 2 3 4
C
C O S E
1 2 3 4 5 6 75 8 96 10 117 12 13 8 14 15 16 17
A B C D E F G H 9 I J K10 L M 11 N O P 12Q R S T U
O
13 14 15 16
E
S
17 18 19 20
21
A B C D
E F G H
X
I J K L
M N O P
X
Q R S T
X
U V W X
Y
X ZX
Answers on page 49
Puzzle Page
Across Clues:
5. Providing or obtaining food (9)
8. Plant used for flavouring (4)
9. Having the ability to attract (8)
10. To extend (7)
11. A condition (5)
13. Excessive pride (5)
15. Those who suffer from harmful event (7)
18. To increase (8)
19. Without covering, exposed (4)
20. Assigned to a lower position (9)
Down Clues:
1. A thin film of soapy water (6)
2. A facial expression showing discomfort (7)
3. Male deer (5)
4. Secret (6)
6. A luxurious apartment (9)
7. A natural, often permanent mark (9)
12. Container used for holding burning coals (7)
14. Fashioned into a specific form (6)
16. A small, flat electronic device (6)
17. Cooked by dry heat (5)
Word Ladder
Word Ladder
Make your way from COLD to HARM by changing
Make your way from COLD to HARM by changing
one letter on each step to make a new word!
one letter on each step to make new word!
COLD
HARM
Quick Crossword
5
1 2 3 4
6 7
8 9
10 11
13 14 15 16
18 19
20
17
What Country are
you in if...? Quiz
1. You are snorkelling in the Great Barrier
Reef?
2. You are exploring the Amazon
Rainforest?
3. You are walking through Red Square?
4. You are touring the Alhambra in
Granada?
5. You are visiting the Statue of Liberty?
6. You are shopping in the Grand Bazaar?
7. You are exploring the ancient ruins of
Petra?
8. You are gazing at the Moai statues on
Easter Island?
9. You are climbing to the top of Table
Mountain?
10. You are taking a safari in the Serengeti
National Park?
12
ANSWERS: (COLD, HOLD, HELD, HERD, HARD, HARM)
Answers on page 49
General Knowledge Crossword
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9
10
11 12
13 14 15
16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24
25 26
27
28 29
Across Clues:
7. Ahead in progress (8)
9. To secure or finalise something (6)
10. Part of a corn plant (3)
11. Larvae of a beetle (8)
12. Slanted text style (6)
13. A tough band of tissue connecting muscle to
bone (6)
15. Chemical element in air (8)
16. One who strives for flawlessness (13)
20. Italian-style omelette (8)
22. A comfortable sitting room (6)
25. A vehicle on runners (6)
26. An aggressive entrance (8)
27. Abbreviation for stock launch (3)
28. To remove skull (6)
29. Midday (8)
Down Clues:
1. Cling to something (6)
2. A narrative song (6)
3. To seek or gather through effort (8)
4. Written text (6)
5. Large, tube-shaped pasta (8)
6. An unintended event (8)
8. A public display of a skill (13)
14. Abbreviation for a famous holiday (3)
16. Lines that are equidistant (8)
17. A device used to keep teeth in place (8)
18. The state of being forgotten (8)
19. Star (3)
21. Small, sap-sucking insects (6)
23. Disruptions or surprising outcomes (6)
24. Dark or dismal (6)
Answers on page 49
The Golden Fleece
Living Magazines publisher Lyn Drummond recalls
her experience owning a haunted inn in Australia
I
once owned a former inn, reputed to be
haunted. It is in the small village of Binalong
in the State of NSW, about an hour’s drive from
the Australian capital, Canberra. The inn was
built in 1851 on what was then the main Cobb
and Co coach route from Sydney to Melbourne.
I had bought it sight unseen while working
overseas. A friend agreed to attend an open day
at the inn designed to attract buyers. He told me
if I did not buy it, he would. It was a stunning
spring evening when my late husband and I
finally saw it; a setting sun highlighting the pink
roses across the white stone walls.
I later discovered that the former owners, whom
I never met, had stayed in the small flat in the garden
and never in the house because The Golden Fleece
as it was called was haunted. I was not convinced.
One night my son and his friends stayed in the
house. He said he kept hearing footsteps on the
The Golden
Fleece
verandah. His unease grew when he got up to
look in every room and found one room was
much colder than others. It was there we later
heard that the husband of one of the village
residents who lived there with his partner,
had died.
The artist I sold the house to renovated the
property and showed me around when I Iast
visited. Opening one door leading into the main
house, she said it was the only room connected
to the house she used. She told me she did not
live in the actual house because it was haunted,
sleeping instead in the garden flat.
I found whatever energy was there filled me
with a feeling of well-being – but I never slept in
the house.
Last year, the field at the back of the inn was
found to be a sacred Aboriginal burial ground.
Maybe that is where the haunting starts…
MOBILE VETERINARY CARE FOR BERKHAMSTED AND SURROUNDING AREAS
The Lounge Vet is an independent, compassionate
mobile veterinary practice, established by local vet
Katie Hansard. We provide a premium level of care
for you and your pets, making the experience as
comfortable and relaxed as possible.
Get in touch or head to our website for more
information about our convenient new service.
We look forward to meeting you and your pets
T: 01442 927925 E: enquiries@theloungevet.co.uk W: www.theloungevet.co.uk
10 WAYS
TO LIVE AN EXTRA
10 YEARS
We all strive for longevity in life – we want to maximise
each day and each experience
With that in mind, here are the 10 things scientists recently outlined which,
if done properly, can each add a year into life expectancy…
A balanced diet
A diet rich in various nutrients is essential
for longevity. Incorporate a variety of
fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole
grains to ensure a balanced intake of
vitamins and minerals.
For example, the Mediterranean diet is
lauded for its focus on healthy fats, fish and
an abundance of plant-based foods, which
have all been linked to lower rates of heart
disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Regular exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity
can be transformative. It bolsters
cardiovascular health, regulates blood
sugar levels and will even enhance mood
due to the release of endorphins.
Whether it’s brisk walking, swimming
or cycling, consistent exercise can help
maintain muscle mass and flexibility as
we age, all of which are vital for mobility
and independence.
Adequate sleep
Quality sleep is non-negotiable for
good health. It allows the brain to clear
out toxins and supports the repair of
cells. Poor sleep, on the other hand, has
been implicated in a host of diseases,
making those 7-9 hours a night a critical
investment in your future wellbeing.
Good stress management
The impact of chronic stress cannot
be overstated; it accelerates wear and
tear on the body. Techniques such as
mindfulness and meditation can reduce
the production of stress hormones such
as cortisol.
Regular practice of these techniques
can lower blood pressure, improve
heart health and offer a serene mind,
contributing to a lengthened lifespan.
Healthy social connections
Humans are inherently social beings and
isolation can be harmful to our health.
Cultivating friendships and community
ties can provide emotional support,
reduce stress, and foster a sense of
belonging and purpose.
Prioritise relationships and social
activities that bring joy and comfort, as
these can be as vital as any medicine.
Lifelong learning
An active mind is a healthy mind.
Challenging your brain with new
information and skills can stave off
mental decline. Pursuits such as
reading, learning a new language or
playing a musical instrument stimulate
neural connections and can protect
against dementia and memory loss.
HEALTH
Preventive healthcare
Proactive engagement with healthcare
providers for regular screenings and
check- ups can catch problems before
they escalate.
Vaccinations, cancer screenings and
monitoring vital signs including blood
pressure and cholesterol levels are
cornerstones of preventive care. Don’t
overlook dental health, as it can often be
a window to overall health.
No smoking and limited alcohol
Smoking cessation is perhaps the single
most powerful change for those who do
smoke. It significantly reduces the risk
of numerous cancers and cardiovascular
diseases.
If alcohol is part of your lifestyle,
moderation is key. Overconsumption of
alcohol can lead to liver damage,
increased cancer risk and other
health issues.
Healthy body weight
Excess weight,
particularly around
the midsection, is
associated with an
increased risk of
heart disease, type 2
diabetes and certain
cancers. Achieving and
maintaining a healthy weight through
a balanced diet and regular exercise
can significantly reduce these risks and
contribute to longevity.
A positive outlook
Psychological wellbeing impacts physical
health. Optimists, who generally expect
good things to happen, are less likely to
suffer from cardiovascular disease and
can even have stronger immune responses.
That means cultivating gratitude, joy,
and a positive mindset may not only make
your days brighter, but also extend them!
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berko@regentsparkaesthetics.co.uk
SOCKS
APPEAL
Being a lover of simplicity and
order, you find satisfaction in
the harmony that comes with
everything being in its right
place… not least your favourite
pair of black socks.
What do our socks say about us?
The socks you choose each morning can
say more than you may think about
your personality and lifestyle. From
plain to quirky, every choice reveals
something unique.
Plain
Signalling a strong sense of duty and
meticulous attention to detail, with a driven,
disciplined nature, this is a sock wearer who
takes pride in precision.
‘Buzzworthy’
Beauty
& Bliss
Facials . Massages
Electrical facials
Lash & brow treatments
Electrolysis . Waxing
07546 517186
www.beesbeautyandmassage.com
bethany@beesbeautyandmassage.co.uk
10% Blue Light Card discount on Thursdays
FIND US AT: DICKMANS CHEMIST
224 HIGH STREET, BERKHAMSTED HP4 1BB
Athletic
Sporty styles
indicate an
active
lifestyle, as
you thrive on
outdoor
activities such as running, cycling and team
pursuits. Your competitive nature drives you
to excel and achieve goals, but comfort
is crucial.
Odd
Highlighting your creative flair and boldness,
you’re not afraid to break fashion rules, and
are keen to dismiss convention in order to
express yourself. Confident and daring, you
set trends rather than follow them.
Sustainable
Revealing a nature-loving, carefree spirit, you
appreciate simplicity and the natural world,
favouring comfort and subtle, earthy styles. A
relaxed attitude and love for the environment
makes you a refreshing presence with people
drawn to your easy-going and genuine charm.
Humorous
Showcasing your vibrant personality and love
for making others laugh, you’re the life and
soul of the party, always up for new
experiences. Your friends know you for your
humour and
unpredictability,
whether an
original joke or an
amusing pair of festive
toe-warmers.
A
CULTURAL
DIVIDE
Its historic centre, while compact,
exudes an enigmatic, almost
cinematic atmosphere, and its
main border crossing features a
poignant museum. There is also
a nearby monastery, which is
well worth a visit.
Discover Gorizia and Nova
Gorica, the first joint European
Capital of Culture that straddles
two magnificent countries
Observe this delightful city from one of
the hilltop vantage points and be
struck by its strange beauty: medieval
on one side, modern on the other. For this is a
city of not two halves, but two countries:
Gorizia in Italy and Nova Gorica in Slovenia.
Once the frontline of the Cold War, the city is
no longer divided and exploring it is now both
a pleasure and a breeze, though the region
remains a melting pot. Before 1918, it was part
of the Austrian Empire, ruled from Vienna.
After Austria’s defeat in the First World War,
it was handed to Italy and governed from
Rome. Then, following Italy’s defeat in the
Second World War, the area was seized by
Yugoslav partisans and later occupied by
Western Allies.
All this of course, makes it the ideal choice for
the first joint European Capital of Culture,
symbolising how far our continent has come
in its peacetime efforts.
If you’re weary of bustling cities packed with
tourists, Gorizia provides a peaceful and
evocative retreat—an ideal destination to
explore history, culture, and the art of quiet
reflection. Gorizia feels untouched by modernity,
with no flashy chain stores, minimal traffic,
and few contemporary buildings.
In stark contrast, Nova Gorica
displays brutalist high-rise architecture
favoured by Communist regimes worldwide.
Perhaps lacking in beauty of the traditional
sort, it is steeped in historic splendour.
Though once the site of some of the First World
War’s bloodiest battles, the countryside on both
sides of the border is a patchwork quilt of
farms, fields and endless vineyards that are
home to one of Italy’s finest wines, Collio. This
adds another aspect to one’s adventure as you
sip on a glass of chilled white and sample the
local fare, which is Germanic in style. In this
sense, a visit here becomes three-in one: the old,
the new and the timeless.
Getting there: Fly to Venice from London
Heathrow with British Airways, from Gatwick
with EasyJet, or from Edinburgh, Luton, or
Stansted with Ryanair. EasyJet and Ryanair also
operate flights from Bristol and Manchester.
Trains from Venice to Gorizia take 2–3 hours
and cost around €15 each way.
Where to stay: Once the Palazzo Strassoldo,
now the Grand Hotel Entourage. This elegant
rococo building offers old-fashioned charm
with a warm, homely atmosphere. Rooms are
reasonably priced and steeped in history.
Living Magazines
BOOKS
An eclectic collection of reads from local authors,
including everything from mystery and fantasy to
dystopian and surreal fiction
Flume - Bigfoot
Surrealist author Bigfoot has done it again, with this compelling story, set on a
33-minute ride down London’s largest water flume ride.
A ride built by a famous seafarer called Mr Poppy, who died on his first slide
down it.
12-year-old Shanks is no fan of rides like these – nor can he swim – but his uncle
has paid for it as a birthday treat.
He reluctantly pushes off behind his two friends, but in the 33 minutes the ride
lasts, can he make sure they don’t suffer the same fate as the ride’s inventor?
A tale with twists and turns and mystery, Bigfoot has written this for kids and big kids. A thrilling
ride of a read!
Bigfoot is a local author who creates surreal stories for middle school age up to adult. Flume was a
finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards.
Edward IX, The Black Lion - Sandy Berlin
What would happen if the way we live now was taken from us, and we returned
to a world before the industrial revolution?
How would we survive if cities fell apart as all technology was wiped out and we
returned to life in the countryside, surviving off the land, with no electricity and
no modern medicine?
That’s what happens when a man who believes he is the rightful Plantagenet
king takes over not only Britain, but the world.
This thought-provoking tale carries us along with Colonel Alex Rheinhart,
one of Britain’s most decorated female soldiers, who finds herself thrown into this alien world,
and her quest to find the ‘king’ takes her across the globe to discover a horrific world of mind control
and clones.
You won’t want to put it down, and the good news is that the sequel, Edward X: The Gold Lion, is
already out now!
Sandy Berlin is a retired bank manager, who has lived in Northchurch for over 30 years, with his wife
Janet. He says: ‘Writing has become one of my favourite pastimes so far.’ A third book is already in
the works.
46 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
www.austinmacauley.com
£8.99 / €10.95
The Missing Madonna - MH Field
MH Field brings us back to the Chiltern village of Diston St. Peter with another
mystery for the Reverend Robin to solve.
This time an unexpected visitor sends Robin on a quest to find the missing
Madonna statue.
Another cosy, easy read, perfect for indulging in while travelling to your holiday
destination or for a relaxing read sitting in the garden.
MH Field has lived in a village in the Chilterns for over 40 years. After a life
working in the financial sector and commuting into London every day, they have
now retired and enjoy travel and photography. This is their second book about the Reverend Robin
and his wife Penny. The first book, A Difficult Truth, was published in 2024.
years since the Sommer lings –
gue – vanished from Elbion.
e by a great evil, they retreated
oors, down into a hidden
gical, so enchanting, that they
nd guarded them, forbidding
urn to Elbion on pain of death,
s break, then the evil would
eturn to Elbion: strangely
al realm, creeping curiously
ors to walk amongst the fields
n night fell. But the greater
he had a name… Morgalene, a
threatens to destroy not only
the hidden realm of faery.
f the Sommerlings, the spirit
re and so save both kingdoms
te destruction?
PRINCE OF THE SOMMERLINGS E. L. Grant
PRINCE OF THE
SOMMERLINGS
BOOK ONE
Kingdom of Elbion
E. L. Grant
Prince of the Sommerlings - E.L. Grant
The Sommerlings – or faeries – vanished from Elbion thousands of years
ago, when a great evil drove them from their homes and into a magical,
hidden kingdom.
They were forbidden to return to Elbion on pain of death, in fear that the evil, a
terrible creature called Morgalene, would re-awake. But they did return, and she
did awake – putting the magical faerie land in danger.
Now, they must hope that the Prince of the Sommerlings, the spirit of nature,
will rise once more to save both kingdoms.
The author paints a wonderful picture of the worlds in his book, and the story is well-paced – with
the action speeding up as we approach the finale. Even if you’re not a huge fan of fantasy fiction, this
makes for an easy read, and it’s a fabulous read for fantasy aficionados.
The author and his partner Denise have recently moved house, to live on the edge of Ashridge
Forest. He works for John Lewis, is an avid Arsenal fan, and enjoys cross country running, pubs and
Caribbean cooking.
His dream is to be writing full time from a luxury cabin in the bottom of the garden and to see his
work make it onto the big screen.
Man Trouble: Belonging / Behaviour / Biology -
David Algar
In this interesting read, David looks at what it means to be a man in today’s
society. He combines personal experience in an engaging, very honest and often
humorous way. For men of a certain age, his essays on losing glasses, the prostate
and keeping chickens will definitely be relatable! Younger readers may get a taste
of what’s to come!
Written as a series of essays, the book is easy to dip in and out of, as and when
you wish, to read about everything from drinking culture and the boys’ trip to
nicknames and banter, as well as David’s very honest account of his own cancer battle.
An engaging read for anyone, whether you’re a man who can relate, a teenage boy finding your
place in the world, or someone who wants to find out more about the way their male partner or
friend, son, or brother interacts in society.
David Algar is a Bucks-based author with a degree in psychology and politics, a long career in
industry, a wife, two kids, five chickens, their bikes and a kayak!
Local authors! Let us know about your book releases. Email editorial@livingmags.info
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 47
RECIPE
Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 • Serves 6 •
ANGELA NILSEN’S
SUMMER
PUDDING
Ingredients
• 1.5kg British summer fruits
(e.g. raspberries, strawberries, blueberries,
blackcurrants, redcurrants)
• 175g golden caster sugar
• 5tbsp crème de cassis
• Five slices of thick white bread, 3-5 days old
• Double cream, to serve
Author of The
Cake Decorator’s
Bible, Angela
Nilsen offers
this stunning
take on a classic
British pud
1. Hull the strawberries and cut them in
halves or quarters. Strip the blackcurrants
and redcurrants – keep both the
currants separate from the other fruits.
2. Tip the sugar into a wide, not too deep,
saucepan. Measure in 3 tbsp water and
the cassis. Put the pan on a low heat
and cook, stirring often, until you can no
longer hear the crunch of sugar grains
on the bottom of the pan. Next turn up
the heat to medium-high and let the
mixture bubble away for about 8
minutes. Let it go syrupy but don’t let it
change colour or caramelise.
48 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
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For more recipes scan the
QR Code and find them in our
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3. Tip the blackcurrants and redcurrants
into the hot syrup, then bring everything
back up to a lively simmer and let it
bubble again for no more than a minute,
just to lightly burst and soften the
currants without losing their shape. Take
the pan off the heat.
4. Gently stir in the strawberries and
raspberries – a large metal spoon is best
so they don’t break up – and let the
fruity mixture sit for about half an hour
so the juices all mix in.
5. Trim crusts off bread. Cut a little square
(about 4cm) from one slice and put it in
the bottom of a 1.2 litre pudding basin.
Using a big, slotted spoon, put a layer of
fruit (about 3 spoonfuls) over the
bread. Next lay a slice of bread in
the centre over the fruit trimming
to fit and fill any gaps with trimmings
of bread so the fruit is covered.
Continue layering with more fruit,
more bread, then a final layer of fruit.
Spoon over a few spoonfuls of juice.
Cover the fruit with a final layer of
bread, press down to compact
everything, cover with cling film, and
put a weighty cover over the top. Leave
in the fridge overnight.
6. To turn out, go round the edge of the
pudding with a round-bladed knife to
release it, then invert it on to a plate.
Enjoy!
CODEWORD, CROSSWORD,
PUZZLE Codeword AND QUIZ ANSWERS
solution
#052
CODEWORD
Each letter of the alphabet has been replaced
by a number shown in the grid, with the first
few entered for you.
C H I N W A G G I N G
H A A L
A B O S S S C A N O
N O K E O B
D O V E R B O A R D O
C O T P S E A T
U T E O
F O B I F G E M
F A C C O R D I O N I
I L A R A S
N E E L S F E S T E
G A E D
O V E R P O W E R E D
WHAT COUNTRY
ARE YOU IN?
1. Australia - 2. Brazil -
3. Russia - 4. Spain -
5. USA - 6. Turkey -
7. Jordan - 8. Chile -
9. South Africa -
10. Tanzania
WORD LADDER
Cold, Hold, Held, Herd,
Hard, Harm
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE
General Knowledge Crossword Solution
CROSSWORD
#052
A B S S R A
A D V A N C E D C L I N C H
H L R E A R G C
M E A L W O R M I T A L I C
R A U O P T D
T E N D O N N I T R O G E N
Y G S N N
P E R F E C T I O N I S T
A E R B U
F R I T T A T A L O U N G E
A A P T I P L
S L E I G H I N V A S I O N
L N I P O I E O
B E H E A D N O O N T I M E
L R S N S Y
Answers:
Across: 7. Advanced, 9. Clinch, 10. Ear,
11. Mealworm, 12. Italic, 13. Tendon, 15. Nitrogen,
16. Perfectionist, QUICK 20. CROSSWORD
Frittata, 22. Lounge, 25. Sleigh,
26. Invasion, 27. IPO, 28. Behead, 29. Noontime.
Down: Adhere, 2. Ballad, 3. Scrounge, 4. Script,
5. Rigatoni, 6. Accident, 8. Demonstration, 14. NYE,
Across: 16. Parallel, 17. 5. Retainer, Nutrition, 18. Oblivion, 19. Sun,
21. Aphids, 23. Upsets, 24. Gloomy.
8. Herb, 9. Magnetic,
10. Stretch, 11. State,
13. Boast, 15. Victims,
18. Escalate, 19. Bare,
20. Relegated. Down:
1. Bubble, 2. Grimace,
3. Stags, Covert, 6.
Penthouse, 7. Birthmark,
12. Firepan, 14. Shapen,
16. Tablet, 17. Baked.
CHILTERN OPEN AIR MUSEUM
Explore Our 45-Acre Outdoor Museum
Exciting Special Events Programme
Visit www.coam.org.uk for Full Details
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park,
Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles,
Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 49
WHAT’S ON
MONDAY 2 JUN
Talks: Cameo Lunch
Club
Tring Garden Centre,
every Monday 11.30am-
1.30pm. No need to book.
A club for social contact
for individuals who
would like conversation,
laughter, friendship
and maybe some food.
www.facebook.com/
groups/773041230629254
Talks: Full Council
Meeting
The Council Chamber,
Berkhamsted Civic
Centre, 7.30pm. www.
berkhamsted-tc.gov.uk
TUESDAY 3 JUN
Comedy: Rich Hall -
Chin Music
Dembe Theatre, 7.30pm.
‘Chin Music’ has two
meanings. One is idle talk.
The other is a brushback
throw in baseball or
cricket to intimidate the
batter. Both describe Rich
Hall’s comedy. www.getstuffed.biz
WWW.LIVINGMAGS.INFO OR SCAN
THE QR CODE FOR DAILY UPDATES
ALWAYS CHECK with the event organiser beforehand. Opening times may
vary. If you would like to include your event in future magazines complete the
form at: www.livingmags.info/submit-event
Dance: Scottish Country
Dancing
Potten End Village Hall,
8-10pm. Weekly. A fun,
social activity, no need
for a partner. Regular
classes run for beginners.
berkhamstedreelclub.org
Talks: Alcoholics
Anonymous
Corpus Christi Church
Hall, Langdon Street, Tring,
8-9.15pm. Every Tuesday.
Help@aamail.org
WEDNESDAY 4 JUN
Dance: Care to Dance
Berkhamsted Civic Centre,
1.30-2.30pm. Weekly
dementia-friendly dance
classes. Suitable for all
those living with dementia
and their caregivers,
dance seated or standing.
dacorumdance@gmail.com
Talks: Hec-Talk Group
The XC Centre, Jarman
Way, Hemel Hempstead,
7.30-8.30pm. Every first
and third Wednesday of
the month. Open to all men
to come together and talk.
Register via link. tinyurl.
com/5n8c6p3v
Talks: Alcoholics
Anonymous
The Swan Building, 137 High
Street, Berkhamsted, 8pm-
9.30pm. Every Wednesday.
Help@aamail.org
FRIDAY 6 JUN
Music: Tony Christie - The
Great Farewell
The Dembe Theatre, 7.30pm.
Tony is performing a select
handful of shows along
with his band in 2025 in
commemoration of his
triumphant 60+ year career.
dembetheatre.org
SATURDAY 7 JUN
Talks: The Great Big
Green Week
To 15 Jun. Berkhamsted
and Tring and are joining
together to bring you a
programme of events and
activities for our whole
community so as many
people as possible can join
in. www.sustainabletring.
org.uk
Fundraisers: Open Door
Repair Café
Open Door Berkhamsted,
9.30am-12.30pm. Bring
along your broken items
and let the experts take
a look, in exchange for
a donation. No need to
book. Refreshments
available while you wait
from donations café.
opendoorberkhamsted.
co.uk
Markets & Sales: Pop Up
Bazaar
Berkhamsted Town
Hall, 10am-4pm. Dogs
welcome. Fab indoor
market home to
independent market stall
small businesses plus onsite
cafe. Email if you would like
a stall. popupbazaarberko@
outlook.com
Markets & Sales: Tring
Arts & Crafts Market
Victoria Room, Victoria
Hall, Akeman Street,
10am-3pm. A place for
locals to showcase their
talents. Handmade crafts,
accessories, homeware,
art, jewellery, candles,
sweet treats and more.
tringartsandcraftsmarket@
gmail.com www.
facebook.com/profile.
php?id=61558152523480
Music: Karen Street
BJazz at the Civic Centre,
Berkhamsted, 8pm. Jazz
inspired by French swing,
Latin and Tango alongside
original compositions
and jazz standards, led by
the UK’s leading virtuoso
accordionist. www.bjazz.org
50 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
SUNDAY 8 JUN
Talks: Eco Hub
Quaker Meeting House,
Berkhamsted High Street,
2.30-5pm. Great Big
Green Week event. www.
theecohub.org.uk
Fundraisers | Music: Live
at the Movies
Aylesbury Waterside
Theatre, 4pm. An afternoon
of iconic movie soundtracks
performed by Aylesbury
Vale Concert Orchestra
in support of Florence
Nightingale Hospice
Charity. atgtickets.com/
aylesbury
Talks: Alcoholics
Anonymous
High Street Baptist Church
Hall, Tring, 7-8.15pm. Every
Sunday. Help@aamail.org
TUESDAY 10 JUN
Talks: Tring U3A Monthly
Meeting
Victoria Hall, Akeman St,
10am. This month’s talk is
about the Berkhamstedbased
charity Hector’s
House. www.tringu3a.
org.uk
WEDNESDAY 11 JUN
Talks: The Three Great
Game Changers of 19th
Century Opera
Arts Society Tring Park,
Berkhamsted Civic
Centre, 10.30am. In the
19th century, three men
revolutionised the art form
of opera - Verdi, Wagner
and Puccini. Speaker:
Jamie Hayes. artssocietytringpark.co.uk
FRIDAY 13 JUN
Fundraisers: Walk of
Light
Waddesdon Manor,
6.30pm. Walk 5km or 10km
alongside friends and
family, honour loved ones,
and show your support for
the incredible nurses at
the Florence Nightingale
Hospice Charity in this
meaningful experience.
www.fnhospice.org.uk
SATURDAY 14 JUN
Markets & Sales: Tring
Farmers Market
High Street, Tring, 9am-
12.30pm. 2nd and 4th
Saturday of the month.
Fine produce from around
the district.
www.tringfarmersmarket.
co.uk
Fundraisers: Tring Lions
Club Charity Car Boot
Sale
Market Square, Brook
Street Tring. Set up from
9am, open to the public
from 10am. 07833 158090
info@tringlions.org.uk
www.tringlions.org.uk
SUNDAY 15 JUN
Markets & Sales:
Berkhamsted Farmers
Market
High St, Berkhamsted,
10am-2pm. An opportunity
for local customers to buy
high quality produce direct
from the producer. www.
facebook.com/berkofm
Fundraisers: Bubble Rush
Gadebridge Park, Hemel
Hempstead, 10am. A 5k
fun run through colourful
bubbles to benefit The
Hospice of St Francis. The
course is family friendly and
suitable for pushchairs and
wheelchairs. www.stfrancis.
org.uk
Kids: Great Big Nature
Hunt
Rectory Lane Cemetery,
Berkhamsted, 10am-1pm. A
free family-friendly Great
Big Nature Hunt - children
can safely explore three
green acres, discover
wildlife, learn fascinating
facts about pondlife, insects,
butterflies, bees, trees;
collect their own treasures
and do nature-related
craft activities. tinyurl.
com/2s3fmzxc
Fairs / Festivals:
Marsworth Steam Rally
Startop Farm, HP23 4LL.
11am-5pm. Over 20 full-sized
steam engines, vintage and
classic vehicles, vintage
fairground, horse-drawn
rides, live band, family
entertainment, beer
and tea tents, food and
snacks, stalls, crafts and
more. All proceeds to local
fundraising and charities.
www.marsworthsteamrally.
co.uk
Music: Tring Chamber
Music - In Tchaikovsky’s
Hands
Hastoe Village Hall, 7.30pm.
Haydn Piano Trio in E flat
No 45; Caroline Shaw ‘In
Manus Tuas’ for solo cello
(2009); Prokofiev Grand
Waltz and Winter Fairy
from Cinderella; Tchaikovsky
Piano Trio in a minor Op 50.
Bubble Rush - 15 June
Great Big Nature Hunt -
15 June
Paul Barritt violin, Joely
Koos cello, Daniel King
Smith piano. www.
tringchambermusic.co.uk
WEDNESDAY 18 JUN
Business: Tring
BusinessMart Breakfast
8am. Join the friendly
BusinessMart networking
group for a morning of
enjoyable but productive
networking and the
chance to meet new
business associates. info@
tringtogether.org.uk
www.tringtogether.org.uk
Talks: London Bridged-
3500 Years of Crossing the
Thames
Potten End Village Hall,
10.30 am. membersgadev@
gmail.com theartssocietygadev.org.uk
Living Magazines | 01442 824300 | info@livingmags.info Summer 2025 / 51
SATURDAY 21 JUN
Walks: DENS Woodland
Trail
Berkhamsted Castle,
8.30am- 3pm. Walk or run
your choice of 5- or 10-mile
routes. Immerse yourself in
beautiful woodland and
nature on a summer’s day.
Help local people facing
homelessness, poverty and
social exclusion. www.dens.
org.uk
Fairs / Festivals: Summer
Fest
Waddesdon Manor,
Aylesbury. A two-day
festival of performance,
art, music, food and drink.
waddesdon.org.uk
Fundraisers: Repair Café
High Street Baptist Church
Hall, Tring. Third Saturday
of each month, 10.30am-
1pm. A place where people
can gather and fix those
objects from everyday
life that would otherwise
end up in landfill. www.
sustainabletring.org.uk
Fundraisers: MSAR
Charity Darts
Tournament
Berkhamsted Football
Club, registration from
6.30pm. In support of
MSAR (Midshires Search
and Rescue), a voluntary
group who assist the
police to locate missing
persons in Bedfordshire
and Hertfordshire. www.
midshires.org.uk
WEDNESDAY 25 JUN
Exhibitions: Earth Photo
Waddesdon Manor,
10am-4pm. This powerful
exhibition showcases
shortlisted works that
explore themes such as
nature, people, places,
forests, land and seascapes.
waddesdon.org.uk
Sport: Tring Midsummer
Fun Run
Tring Park Cricket Club,
access from Station Road.
Arrive from 4.30pm, races
start 5.30pm. Runners
of all ages, abilities and
backgrounds welcome.
www.tringrunningclub.
org.uk
THURSDAY 26 JUN
Business: Berko
Interchange
Waite & Rose Café
Berkhamsted, 8-9am.
Informal and free business
networking over coffee.
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/
berko-interchangetickets-547768158307
SATURDAY 28 JUN
Music: Chiltern Chamber
Choir Summer Concert
St. Peter’s Church,
Berkhamsted 7.30pm.
Summer choral concert.
www.chilternchamberchoir.
com
Music: Jivin Miss Daisy
BJazz at the Civic Centre,
Berkhamsted, 8pm. Sextet
delivering a rousing evening
of classic music from
Gershwin, Cole Porter and
Ellington through to Nat
King Cole and Ray Charles.
www.bjazz.org
SUNDAY 29 JUN
Comedy: The Tringe
Roving Comedy Night
Four venues full of comedyloving
audiences, four
groups of comedians made
up of professionals and a
group of locals who have
trained for the scariest and
most exhilarating night
of their lives. Now is your
chance to take part. www.
get-stuffed.biz
FRIDAY 4 JUL
Music: Chilfest
Cow Lane, Tring. Totally
Tribute Friday featuring
Noasis, Flash (Queen trubute),
The Marley Experience,
Bootleg Bee Gees, Blur2 and
Duran Duran tribute. Sat 5:
Adam Ant, Kim Wilde, Peter
Hook, Haircut 100, Bad
Manners, The Real Thing,
The Hoosiers and DJ
Brandon Block. chilfest.co.uk
SATURDAY 5 JUL
Music: Tring Choral
Society Summer Concert
St Peter & St Paul’s church,
Tring, 7.30pm. A sung
arrangement of Vaughan
Williams’ classic ‘The Lark
Ascending’; Paul Barritt is
playing the solo violin with
the chorus as orchestra. Also
John Rutter’s ‘Magnificat’
for soprano soloist, chorus,
chamber orchestra, organ,
harp and percussion. www.
tringchoral.org.uk
MONDAY 7 JUL
Talks: Full Council Meeting
The Council Chamber,
Berkhamsted Civic Centre,
7.30pm. www.berkhamstedtc.gov.uk
WEDNESDAY 9 JUL
Talks: The Bird in Art
Arts Society Tring Park,
Berkhamsted Civic
Centre, 10.30am. See birds
depicted in Aboriginal rock
decorations millennia ago,
right up to the present day.
Speaker: Frank Woodgate.
artssociety-tringpark.co.uk
THURSDAY 10 JUL
Talks: Tring U3A Monthly
Meeting
Victoria Hall, Akeman St,
10am. A Journey in India -
An illustrated talk by Alison
Mees. www.tringu3a.org.uk
FRIDAY 11 JUL
Fundraisers: Ashlyns
Comedy & Curry Night
Ashlyns, Berkhamsted.
Save the date for this
fundraising event hosted
by the Ashlyns School
Association, to celebrate
the end of term and the
start of the summer. www.
ashlynsfestival.co.uk
SATURDAY 12 JUL
Fairs / Festivals:
BeaconLit Book Festival
2025
Ivinghoe Town Hall
and Community Hub, 9am.
The BeaconLit Book Festival
has been raising funds for
Beacon Villages Community
Library since 2013. This
year’s treats include
bestselling authors,
fabulous new writing
talent, crime writers who
set their novels in exotic
places, poets and a fun
writing workshop.
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
52 / Berkhamsted Living View all our editions at www.livingmags.info | Like us on Facebook
Fairs / Festivals: Tring
Summer Carnival Day
Pound Meadow, Tring. www.
tringtogether.org.uk
Fundraisers: Canines
& Cakes
Chilterns Dog Rescue
Society, Bromley Heights,
St Leonards Road, Tring,
HP23 6LD. 12-4pm. Also
Sun 13. Afternoon tea and
cakes, Pimms & beer, stalls
and music. All welcome.
chilternsdogrescue.org.uk
SUNDAY 13 JUL
Music: Tring Chamber
Music - Beethoven Raz 3
Hastoe Village Hall, 7.30pm.
Mozart String Quartet No
19 in C major ‘Dissonance’
K.465; Gershwin Lullaby;
Beethoven String Quartet
Op 59 No. 3 ‘Razumovsky’.
Paul Barritt violin, Catherine
Yates violin, Robin Ireland
viola, Nick Roberts cello.
www.tringchambermusic.
co.uk
Music: Emerging UK Jazz
Artists
BJazz at the Civic Centre,
Berkhamsted, 8pm.
Showcasing Emerging
Talent: two 1-hour sets, each
featuring rising stars of the
UK Jazz scene. Expect to
see award-winning players
at the start of their careers
and a closing jam session of
them all. www.bjazz.org
THURSDAY 17 JUL
Business: Hospice of St.
Francis Corporate Partner
Network Meeting
Garden Marquee, Hospice
of St. Francis, 5.30-7.30pm.
Refreshments provided.
New businesses welcomed.
claire.larkin@stfrancis.org.
uk www.stfrancis.org.uk
SUNDAY 20 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
Comedy: Marcus Brigstocke:
Vitruvian Mango
Dembe Theatre, Tring, 8pm.
The multi-award winning
comedian asks ‘What are
men for?’ www.get-stuffed.biz
TUESDAY 22 JUL
Business: Tring
BusinessMart Breakfast
8am. Join the friendly
BusinessMart networking
group for a morning of
enjoyable but productive
networking and the
chance to meet new
business associates. info@
tringtogether.org.uk
www.tringtogether.org.uk
WEDNESDAY 23 JUL
Music: Albert Lee
The Dembe Theatre,
7.30pm. One of the most
respected and renowned
guitarists in music history,
Albert Lee has worked with
The Everly Brothers, Eric
Clapton, Emmylou Harris
and The Crickets over his
long and illustrious career.
dembetheatre.org
SATURDAY 26 JUL
Music: ELO Encounter
Face the Music
Dembe Theatre, Tring,
7.30pm. Roll over Beethoven,
because the greatest tribute
to Jeff Lynne’s Electric
Light Orchestra is here!
dembetheatre.org
THURSDAY 31 JUL
Business: Berko
Interchange
Waite & Rose Café
Berkhamsted, 8-9am.
Informal and free business
networking over coffee.
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/
berko-interchangetickets-547768158307
SATURDAY 2 AUG
Fairs / Festivals: Long
Marston Village Show
Long Marston Village
Hall and Recreation
Ground, 2pm. Traditional
horticultural show in the
hall and village show in
the recreation ground with
family fun, games, crafts,
plant stalls, rock choir, bee
keeping, raffle, dog show,
BBQ, beer & Pimms tent and
much more. 07940 127450
lmvillageshow@gmail.com
SATURDAY 9 AUG
Markets & Sales: Tring
Farmers Market
High Street, Tring,
9am-12.30pm. 2nd and
4th Saturday of each
month. Fine produce from
around the district. www.
tringfarmersmarket.co.uk
THURSDAY 14 AUG
Talks: Tring U3A Monthly
Meeting
Victoria Hall, Akeman St,
10am. This month’s talk is
Walking Land’s End to John
O’Groats by Nick Heath.
www.tringu3a.org.uk
SUNDAY 17 AUG
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
THURSDAY 28 AUG
Business: Berko
Interchange
Waite & Rose Café
Berkhamsted, 8-9am.
Informal and free business
networking over coffee.
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/
berko-interchangetickets-547768158307
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