Ambulance staff and volunteers have been thanked for their hard work during another busy bank holiday weekend.
The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) received more than 9,100 emergency calls during the long weekend (27th – 29th August) – 9% more than the 2015 August bank holiday weekend.
The busiest day of the weekend was Saturday with 3,299 calls across the East. The Trust received 2,776 calls on bank holiday Monday.
Community first responders attended almost 300 medical emergencies over the weekend.
Sandy Brown, Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality, said: “Whilst most people were enjoying a long weekend in the sun, our staff and volunteers were working hard to help patients across the East of England.
“I’d like to thank everyone for their efforts over the weekend.
“We continue to experience an increase in demand, but we coped well to provide the best possible care to patients over the bank holiday.”
County breakdown of number of calls over the bank holiday weekend compared with 2015:
Bedfordshire – 873 (849)
Cambridgeshire – 1,123 (1,095)
Essex – 2,992 (2,626)
Hertfordshire – 1,463 (1,491)
Norfolk – 1,444 (1,301)
Suffolk – 1,276 (1,019)

More than 9,100 calls to ambulance service over Bank Holiday weekend


Ambulance staff and volunteers have been thanked for their hard work during another busy bank holiday weekend.


“Stable leadership” is the priority at West Herts Hospitals, after the Gazette met new chief executive Katie Fisher for an exclusive interview.
Mrs Fisher spoke to this newspaper on Friday, just six weeks after taking up the reins.
But while she is under no doubts about the challenges leading a trust that is in special measures, she also praised the numerous positives that she has already encountered.
Mrs Fisher said: “What we need is stable leadership. The trust and the staff need a bit of love and someone who is on their side, so that we can do our best.
“I know that sounds cheesy but I don’t make any apologies for that. We’ll take the best of what we have and use it to inspire everyone to improve.”
She added: “One of the most striking aspects is how committed our staff are. It’s been a very bruising experience for them since the trust was put into special measures, but the vast majority of staff still take a great deal of pride in trying to provide the best possible care for all patients.
“Then there are outcomes which perhaps we haven’t been so good at shouting about in the past. West Herts Hospitals have the 11th best mortality rates in the country. That’s been a real focus over the last three years.
“We’ve had no MRSA bacteremia this year, and we’ve had no Grade 4 pressure ulcer acquisition over the last 18 months while Grade 3 are down 80 per cent.”
While this is Mrs Fisher’s first chief executive role, she has worked as a director in the NHS for the past 13 years.
Her previous employer was the Royal Free Hospital in north London, most recently as director of service transformation, a role which gave her executive responsibility for Chase Farm Hospital in Enfield.
The biggest story for health campaigners in 2016 has been the Your Care, Your Future review of the future of healthcare in the region.
Patients have even drawn up their own proposals for a brand new hospital, equidistant from West Herts’ current sites in Hemel Hempstead, St Albans and Tring.
While Mrs Fisher was careful not to take a view which could prejudice the review she did acknowledge the need for reform, with investment of £110million needed to simply maintain the current buildings over the next five years.
She said: “We will need to deliver big changes, but that’s about pathways of care as well as buildings.”


“Stable leadership” is the priority at West Herts Hospitals, after the Gazette met new chief executive Katie Fisher for an exclusive interview.


It’s not a classic combination but a young woman who personalises customers’ clothes at Topshop has won a national award for mixing heavy metal with quilting.
Lily Goulding, 22, who lives in Berkhamsted, scooped the award in the Graduate Showcase at the national Festival of Quilts in Birmingham.
Her final project – Heavy Metal – was a collection of heat transfer prints combined with hand and digital embroidery.
She was awarded the £1,000 Quilters’ Guild BA Bursary Prize 2016, to further her textile studies and membership of the guild.
“Receiving the award has been a real confidence boost,” Lily said. “It was a great opportunity to talk to other exhibitors, visitors and the judges, who were really complimentary about my use of colour, variety of materials and experimentation.”
Lily, who graduated from Arts University Bournemouth, now works at Topshop in Oxford Circus.
She said: “I’m really enjoying using my embroidery knowledge and skills in a fast-paced retail environment, personalising customers’ garments with monogramming and embroidered patches.”
As part of the award, Lily will be exhibiting at the Festival of Quilts in 2017.
The Quilters’ Guild is an educational charity which brings together quilters to promote quilt-making in all its forms across the UK.

Sew far sew good as Topshop seamstress wins national award


It’s not a classic combination but a young woman who personalises customers’ clothes at Topshop has won a national award for mixing heavy metal with quilting.


After a victorious Olympic Games in Rio, Mo Farah and Usain Bolt were among the big names who made an appearance at a popular festival – well, in straw form.
The golden duo were among dozens of impressive scarecrows which sprung up at the annual Flamstead Scarecrow Festival, which is now in its 15th year.
Flamstead Scarecrow Festival 2016 Usian Bolt PNL-160819-181529009
Funds raised are still being counted but they will be split between The Friends of St Leonard’s and the Herts Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre.
Claire McMurdo, who works at the centre and helped organise the festival, said: “We were very pleased – it was a really good event.
“Thank you to everyone who came along and supported it because it is the people who make it happen. Regardless of the weather, people enjoyed it and it was lovely on Sunday. It’s quite a big event which takes a lot of effort but it helps us keep costs down for everyone that uses the centre.”
Along with the straw Olympians, there were some eye-catching Pokemon scarecrows, the Wizard of Oz cast and even a man sat on the loo! Groups including the Chilterns 20s 30s Walking Group, made sure they stopped off at the festival over the weekend. People voted for their favourites and first place, fittingly, went to the Olympians – created by the Thompson family.
Flamstead Scarecrow Festival 2016 Pokemon Crow! PNL-160819-182416009
Runners-up were the Jenkins family who made a superb Pirates of the Caribbean scene and third place went to the Eency Weency Spider at Wilton Cottage.

Crow Farah does the Mobot at popular scarecrow festival


After a victorious Olympic Games in Rio, Mo Farah and Usain Bolt were among the big names who made an appearance at a popular festival – well, in straw form.


Being stuck in a dead end job by your early 40s is bad for your health.
Having an unrewarding job as you start out on the career ladder makes you more depressed, worried and had more trouble sleeping.
And if you stay stuck in positions with low levels of job satisfaction it affects you not just you mentally but physically too, including catching more colds, having a bad back and poor heart health.
But if you are happy in your job or finally get your dream job as your career progresses your overall health gets a boost.
The study by Ohio State University sociologists found job satisfaction in your late 20s and 30s has a link to overall health in your early 40s.
While it impacts on physical health, its effect was particularly strong for mental health.
Lead author and doctoral student Jonathan Dirlam said: “We found that there is a cumulative effect of job satisfaction on health that appears as early as your 40s.”
The study highlighted the importance that early jobs have on people’s lives.
Associate professor of sociology Dr Hui Zheng said: “You don’t have to be near the end of your career to see the health impact of job satisfaction, particularly on your mental health.
“The higher levels of mental health problems for those with low job satisfaction may be a precursor to future physical problems.
“Increased anxiety and depression could lead to cardiovascular or other health problems that won’t show up until they are older.”
He added the study was carried out before the credit crunch and said: “The recession almost certainly increased job insecurity and dissatisfaction, and that could have resulted in more negative health effects.”
The study used data from 6,432 Americans followed from the ages of 14 to 22 as part of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979.
Researchers examined job satisfaction trajectories for people from age 25 to 39 and their health on turning 40.
Participants rated how much they liked their jobs from 1 - dislike very much - to 4 -like very much.
They were then divided into four groups: consistently low and consistently high job satisfaction, those whose satisfaction started high but was trending down and those who started low but were trending higher.
About 45 per cent of participants had consistently low job satisfaction, while another 23 per cent had levels that were trending downward through their early career.
About 15 per cent of people were consistently happy at their jobs and about 17 per cent were trending upward.
Mental health was most affected by people’s feelings about their jobs with those in the low job satisfaction group throughout their early careers scored worse on all five of the mental health measures studied.
They reported higher levels of depression, sleep problems and excessive worry and were more likely to have been diagnosed with emotional problems and scored lower on a test of overall mental health.
Those whose job satisfaction decreased were more likely than those with consistently high satisfaction to have frequent trouble sleeping and excessive worry, and had lower scores for overall mental health.
But they didn’t see an impact on depression scores or their probability of being diagnosed with emotional problems.
Those whose scores went up through the early career years did not see any comparative health problems.
Those in the low satisfaction group and those who were trending downwards reported poorer overall health and more problems like back pain and frequent colds compared to the high satisfaction group.
But they weren’t different in physical functioning and in doctor-diagnosed health problems such as diabetes and cancer.
As with mental health, no effects were seen on physical health for those trending upward.
The findings was presented at the annual meeting of the American Sociological Association in Seattle.


Being stuck in a dead end job by your early 40s is bad for your health.


Fans of The Kinks are in for a spectacular evening with the arrival of Sunny Afternoon to the area.
The band from North London hit the music scene big time in the early Sixties with hits including You Really Got Me and Lola.
Brothers Ray and Dave Davies formed The Kinks. Ray was the primary songwriter and the band’s definitive sound rocked a nation and influenced generations of music lovers.
Sunny Afternoon has won multiple awards during its run in the West End, and now the show is on tour with stops at The Waterside in Aylesbury and Milton Keynes Theatre.
Producer Richard Darbourne said: “Ray Davies is one of the best British songwriters we’ve ever had. There is an iconic Kinks sound and some amazing song writing. He wrote for a particular age, he was very observational. It resonates with that particular time and it either induces a memory in people today, or brings in new listeners who hear their music for the first time on radio.”
The show promises to have a real concert vibe to it.
Mr Darbourne said: “There is no band in the pit, it’s a quite spectacular event. The actors are musicians as well. Finding the right personnel for any show is a major challenge. We needed four Kinks and their understudies and they have to learn the music and sound like The Kinks with an authentic sound. There is a catwalk that goes into the audience, it’s a logistical nightmare but we’ve kept it for the tour. We felt it was important to retain it and keep the show as it is seen in the West End.”
Sunny Afternoon comes to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday August 30 - Saturday September 3. To book call 0844 871 7652 or visit www. atgtickets.co.uk/miltonkeynes. It then visits Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury from Tuesday September 27 to Saturday October 1. Call the box office on 0844 871 7607 or visit www.atgtickets.co.uk/ aylesbury.

Kinks musical hits Milton Keynes and Aylesbury stages


Fans of The Kinks are in for a spectacular evening with the arrival of Sunny Afternoon to the area.


Dacorum & Tring AC’s resident ultra runner Jan Strachan took on the Hangman Ultra challenge despite having injury setbacks over the last few months.
Taking on a trail and path through Berkshire and Hampshire this picturesque route heads to a replica gibbet that stands in the historic location of a hangman’s gibbet from 1642.
Annette Howard at Kimbolton Castle.
Jan added a couple of extra miles to her route to make it 54 miles in the inaugural event that tackles trail, flint paths and ploughed fields as she trains for her 100 mile event later this month!
Doing what she does best, Kate Crossland tackled another crazy event as she took on Tough Mudder in aid of Myeloma.
Battling electric fences, water and plenty of mud, Kate is no stranger to these obstacle events that are a real test of strength and willpower.
D&T’s most dedicated runner, Annette Howard, took on the Kimbolton Castle Half Marathon coming home in 2:16:49.
D&T runners at Gadebridge.
Plenty of the team turned out to wish Richard Brawn well on his last parkrun (with D&T anyway!)
It was fitting therefore, that he was first D&T home at Gadebridge with a new PB of 20:41 which he credits his team-mates Jamie Saunders (20:42) and Chris Marriott (20:42) with helping him to achieve.
They were followed home by Michael Irving in 22:00, Robert Davies in 22:32, Michael Lamb in 22:46 and Alistair Hinchliff who also scored a new PB of 23:33.
Steve Russell was close behind in 23:41 with Richard Stevens (24:06), Rob Salt (24:35), Phillip Pugh (24:37) and Matthew David Stears (25:54).
We then have a flurry of new PBs from Mustafa Readdie (26:04), Louise Flower who knocked more than a minute off in 26:14, Penny Wallduck (26:28) and Victoria Thornley (26:44).
Up next were Gwen Mostyn (28:39), Patrick Mostyn (29:28), Rob Wright (30:35), Sam Hawkridge with a brand new PB of 31:23, Denise Burford (31:25), Annette Howard (34:47), Kirsty Russell (34:48), Alexis Bunce (36:36), Rebecca white (36:37) and Ant Gomm in a new PB of 42:15.
Gary Sturdy, John Jales, Erica Klein and Tony Reeve were also hand as volunteers for the day.
With such a huge turnout at Gadebridge there was a slightly smaller turnouts elsewhere.
At Cassiobury Celia Findlay was seventh lady home in a time of 22:32 with Esther Hamilton (28:42) and Rachel Lewis (28:51).
John Cooper and Peter Bailey raced round the lake in St Albans finishing in 27:08 and 34:14 respectively.
Rasmi Nanda headed to Fell Foot, Newby Bridge in Cumbria finishing in a time of 25:46 alongside stunning views of Lake Windermere and Janice Briggs took to Ellenbrook with a cracking new PB 26:30.
Husband and wife Keith and Karen Wishart win the battle of best parkrun tourism location as they enjoyed Crissy Field parkrun in San Francisco, California!
Running along the bay with great views of the Golden Gate bridge they finished in 22:36 and 27:51.

Ultra runner Jan warms up for 100 mile challenge


Dacorum & Tring AC’s resident ultra runner Jan Strachan took on the Hangman Ultra challenge despite having injury setbacks over the last few months.


Tring Athletic will feel very disappointed at losing 2-1 after a very good performance at last season’s SSML Premier runners-up London Colney on Saturday.
Athletic have had to readjust after losing a number of key players in pre-season but manager Ian Richardson will be pleased at the response he got from his players who competed on equal terms with an in-form Colney side who sit top after starting the season with a four wins from four games.
Athletic started the game positively winning a corner after only 46 seconds and producing their fair share of attacking football.
Mid way through the half Tommy Twelves, who alongside fellow new signing Lessa Boka slotted impressively into efence, saw his deflected shot drift just wide of the far post.
The visitors then nearly shot themselves in the foot when a poor back pass was seized on by Russell Gallagher but from a tight angle he shot wide of the far post.
Athletic then enjoyed a good spell of pressure with Ryan Sturges and Chris Vardy going close, then the former touched a fine cross just over from close range despite having his shirt tugged from behind by the full back.
But against the run of play Colney opened the scoring in the 38th minute. A long clearance was collected by Ashley Morrissey and from quite a way out he lobbed the keeper in spectacular fashion.
Dave O’Connor smashed a presentable opportunity over the bar but Athletic had a narrow escape when Jon Clements met a cross but put his effort just wide. After a good half Athletic were unfortunate to go in for the break a goal down.
Athletic started the second period on the front foot and there was a call for a penalty, which was ignored, when a Chris Vardy header appeared to hit the raised hand of a defender.
But the visitors didn’t have to wait long for a deserved equaliser, with Chris Vardy latching onto a flick from Dave O’Connor and calmly slotting the ball past the keeper in the 54th minute.
Colney came back strongly and forced keeper Jack Hopwood into a couple of saves but Athletic weathered this mini storm and had chances to win the game with Chris Vardy and Chris Stapleton spurning very good opportunities. With ten minutes left Athletic got caught by another sucker punch when they failed to deal  with a long routine ball down the middle and sub Archie McClelland ran through to score.
The visitors tried desperately to grab another equaliser and another new player Lanrewajh Ladipo, who came off the bench, struck a sweet volley but it went straight at the keeper and Colney were able to see out the game and maintain their 100% start to the season.
Unfortunately a couple of basic defensive errors were to prove costly but there were a lot of positives to take away from the game.
Athletic’s next match is on Saturday when they entertain Leighton Town for a Premier Division fixture. Despite the close proximity of the two clubs this will be their first ever competitive encounter.
Tring: 1 Jack Hopwood, 2 Tommy Twelves (15 Jack Seaton 84), 3 Chris Mason, 4 Luke Dunstan, 5 Dan Steadman (Capt), 6 David O’Connor, 7 Ryan Sturges (14 Jack Sunderland 84), 8 Sam Joliffe, 9 Chris Vardy, 10 Lessa Boka, 11 Chris Stapleton (12 Lanrewajh Ladipo (72). Subs not used: 16 Paul Jeffreys.
Attendance: 63

Tring unlucky to lose at early pacesetters


Tring Athletic will feel very disappointed at losing 2-1 after a very good performance at last season’s SSML Premier runners-up London Colney on Saturday.


There were eight reports of rape at Hertfordshire schools – including one of a boy aged under 13 – in just four years between 2011 and 2015.
Figures provided by Herts Police show there was a total of 68 alleged sex offences reported in the period, which also included allegations of sexual assaults, grooming and exposure.
And of the reported rapes, three girl victims were aged under 13. On one particular day, there were four separate reports that boys under the age of 13 were sexually assaulted.
Children’s charity Plan International UK said students are being let down by the government because sex education is not mandatory in schools.
Kerry Smith, the charity’s head of girls’ rights, said: “We’re failing young people when it comes to learning about healthy relationships and consent.
“Quality sex and relationships education helps young people to develop healthy attitudes towards sex and relationships while helping to tackle inappropriate and aggressive sexual behaviour.
“While any cases of suspected sex offences in schools is troubling, the rise in cases may be attributable to children being made more aware of what constitutes normal relationships.”
She added: “It is worth recognising the work that has been done by police, schools and other authorities to encourage children to report such allegations so they can be investigating thoroughly. Only by doing so will we create the safe and secure learning environments our children deserve.”
Although Plan International UK obtained figures from police forces across the UK, the charity said figures are not comparable as the systems used for recording and capturing figures are not generic.
Nationally, the number of sexual offences reported in schools each year more than doubled between 2011 and 2015.
Other national findings include 66 per cent of alleged victims are female, 94 per cent of alleged offences are committed by males, and 15 per cent of alleged offences are thought to be committed by school staff, including teachers.
A spokesman for Herts County Council said: “All Hertfordshire schools work closely with the police and the Hertfordshire Safeguarding Children Board to ensure that the safeguarding of children and young people is their highest priority.
“Schools have regular training on safeguarding and we provide help to deliver a quality PSHE curriculum which includes education on safe sex and healthy relationships.
“We have also developed, in partnership with school nursing, a toolkit for school staff to increase their confidence in talking to young people about sex and relationships and to provide support to young people who need it.”
The council spokesman added that Youth Connexions provides workshops in schools to help prevent child sexual exploitation and the Unplugged programme, which ‘develops resilience in young people’ is currently being piloted.

Eight rapes reported in schools since 2011


There were eight reports of rape at Hertfordshire schools – including one of a boy aged under 13 – in just four years between 2011 and 2015.


Kings Langley and Frome fought out an uncompromising 2-2 draw in wet and windy conditions which was perhaps understandably short on flowing football.
Kings paraded two new signings in the Southern League Premier clash, with Jorell Johnson forging a good partnership with Kyle Anthony at the back and Tom Nyama influential in midfield when coming off the bench.
Kings Langley v Frome. Picture: Chris Riddell.
Kings had the better of the early stages with Lewis Toomey just failing to convert a Sean Coughlan cross, but went ahead on 21 minutes when Jack Waldren added to his debut goal four days earlier.
Emmanuel Folarin and Gary Connolly combined on the right to cross to Waldren, who brought a good save out of Darren Chitty, but the wing back calmly netted the rebound.
The lead was to last but six minutes as Frome skipper Dan Cleverley rose to a sweeping left wing free kick to head firmly past Xavi Comas, but Kings continued to press with Gary Connolly just wide on a Jack Waldren cross, answered by a close Darren Jefferies header at the otherend.
Then Sean Coughlan made a direct, weaving run into the box and when he was brought down, Lewis Toomey converted from the spot shortly before half time.
Lewis Toomey scores. Picture: Chris Riddell.
Coughlan missed a Toomey cross by inches and a Dean Hitchcock free kick was held as Kings closed the half in control.
A similar story continued after the break, a Lewis Toomey angled shot from the right went just wide and Sean Coughlan’s finish to a flowing move going the wrong side of the post.
Jack Waldren’s cross was tipped onto the post by Chitty and Jorell Johnson headed over, but as the game became more physical, Lewis Toomey was forced off with a head injury after an unpunished challenge and the Robins, having ridden the storm, came back into the game to dominate the last 20 minutes with the wind behind them.
Kings defence gave the ball away and Mitchell Page broke clear to pick out Jake Jackson, who converted from close range.
Gary Connolly for Kings Langley. Picture: Chris Riddell.
Danger man Darren Jefferies came close on two occasions to grabbing the winner, being foiled by a Xavi Comas save at the end to ensure a scoreline that was probably a fair result on the day.
Kings Langley visit Redditch on Saturday.

Kings Langley battle out draw with Frome


Kings Langley and Frome fought out an uncompromising 2-2 draw in wet and windy conditions which was perhaps understandably short on flowing football.


It may be early days but Tudors fans are preparing themselves for a National League South relegation battle as Poole won 4-2 on Saturday with an impressive show of finishing.
For 35 minutes it was Hemel who looked most likely to score with Scott Nielson, Johnny McNamara and Sam Corcoran all spurning decent chances.
Hemel v Poole. Picture: Terry Rickeard.
Poole scored against the run of play after 36 minutes when sub James Granger hit a first time shot from 25 yards into the top corner and within a few minutes they could have been three up as Hemel capitulated after the shock of going a goal behind.
A corner was almost headed into his own net by Harley Wise, then on 40 minutes a brilliant effort from inside his own half by Steve Devlin was tipped onto the bar by Jonathan Henly.
With Poole now on top, another corner wasn’t dealt with and Luke Burbidge pounced on a poor clearance to make it 2-0 just before the break.
Hemel created little in the second half and a mistake by Wise let in Luke Roberts who fired home just after the hour mark.
Scott Neilson in action against Poole. Picture: Terry Rickeard.
The Tudors cause wasn’t helped when Arnaud Mendy received a second yellow to reduce them to 10 men and on 83 minutes Ryan Case headed home to make it 4-0 and it looked like game over.
Two late goals within a minute by Corcoran and Robinson reduced the deficit and they almost made it 4-3 but Robinson shot wide and Poole saw the game out.
Hemel head to Hungerford Town on Monday.
Hemel 1: Jonathan Henly 2: David King 3: Jack Kelly 4: Arnaud Mendy 5: Tony Diagne (16: Jordan Rose) 6: Harley Wise 7: Scott Neilson 8: Sam Corcoran © 9: Jake Robinson 10: Jonny McNamara (15: James Potton) 11: Matt Spring (12: James Koloczi) Subs not used 14: Mitchell Weiss 17: Kai Stonnell.
Jake Robinson has a goal disallowed. Picture: Terry Rickeard.
Poole Town 1: Nick Hutchings 2: Ryan Case 3: Lewis Lindsey 4: Michael Walker © 5: Will Spetch 6: Carl Pettefer 7: Luke Burbidge 8: Steve Devlin 9: Luke Roberts (12: Ollie Davis)10: Jamie Gleeson (14: Jamie Granger) 11: Lee Wort Subs not used: 13: Tom Ress 15: Abdulai Baggie.>
Match rating 4/5 Attendance 327 Star man : Ryan Case (Poole Town)


It may be early days but Tudors fans are preparing themselves for a National League South relegation battle as Poole won 4-2 on Saturday with an impressive show of finishing.


Berkhamsted may be teeming with great places to eat but if you are looking for good honest Italian food with a contemporary twist in a great setting then look no further than Carluccio’s.
A popular eating out destination for people from across the Home Counties, Berkhamsted has won a number of awards for its high street offering in the past.
Carluccios is the brainchild of the godfather of Italian gastronomy Antonio Carluccio
To that end it has a reputation to protect.
Carluccio’s - the brainchild of the godfather of Italian gastronomy, Antonio Carluccio, may be yet another chain - and yes the high street does need to maintain its tradition of having some great independents - but it doesn’t feel like one and in many respects has local at its heart.
For a start Berkhamsted’s Carluccio’s is nestled away in the Listed Old Town Hall building on the high street, making it one of the best and most interesting settings to enjoy a nice meal.
Cosy and inviting inside, the staff offer as warm a welcome as the table filled with a host of delicious desserts which greets you as you walk in.
Carluccio's Grandioso platter
The menus cater for all ages and are genuinely exciting. It is the sharing platters that steal the show, though. There are meat and veggie versions, the meat version is particularly delicious and boasts succulent freshly sliced meats like Parma ham, salami from Naples and Milan, herb-roasted ham and mortadella. And if you can manage it, the meat is accompanied by olives, caperberries and home baked focaccia.
But don’t miss out on the arancini, a taste sensation which is essentially Italy in a stuffed rice ball. Coated with breadcrumbs and then deep fried, the arancini are balls of gorgonzola and courgette or nduja and buffalo mozzarella, both served with a tomato sauce.
A range of fantastic classic Italian dishes from a hearty traditional lasagne, lobster spaghetti and homemade ravioli, as well as gluten-free pasta, adorn the menu and the mix is just right without offering too much choice that you find yourself overwhelmed. The menu also includes Italian grill dishes of flattened chicken breast topped with Parma ham and mint-marinated lamb cutlets which is a must.
The dessert offering is typical Italian fare with a zesty lemon tart, chocolate cake, tiramisu and meringue to choose from. There is also a collection of Carluccio’s own branded products on offer and you can take some sweet treats home with you if you like too.
Bistecca Di Fesa
Another aspect which gives the chain a local connection is its picnic service.
There are freshly made meat and vegetarian picnic meal platters available at £45 each, which generously feed two people, as well as a children’s version with a mini pizza, cake and juice for £10 and it all comes in a nifty coolbag. So if you are going out to enjoy the fine summer weather we are experiencing at the moment you can place your order over the phone and collect the picnic basket four hours later.
People might ask did Berkhamsted need another chain? Maybe not, but it definitely needs its Carluccio’s.
Traditional, hearty lasagne
Sweet treat: Carluccio's tiramisu

Eating Out: Carluccio’s puts Italian soul into Berhamsted’s award-winning high street


Berkhamsted may be teeming with great places to eat but if you are looking for good honest Italian food with a contemporary twist in a great setting then look no further than Carluccio’s.


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Are you a drill sergeant, a worshipper, a skipper or a teammate? Experts have identified four types of parent when it comes to teaching their children how to DRIVE.


A man in his 20s was threatened and beaten up by a gang when he refused to hand over his belongings.
The victim, in his 20s, was cornered in an alleyway off Northridge Way, Hemel Hempstead, at around 12.50am on Saturday, August 20.
As he walked towards Chaulden Lane, four people approached him and demanded he hand over his belongings.
When he refused, one of the men reportedly said he had a knife and gestured towards a bag.
The victim refused once again and the gang then attacked him, leaving hime with pain to his face, ribs and leg.
Two people then walked through the alleyway, disturbing the offenders who picked up the victim’s bag and ran off.
One of the suspects is described as wearing a black hoodie with white writing down the arm.
Another is described as being aged around 20, with a tattoo on his hand and was wearing a black hoodie and black jogging bottoms.
A third member of the group was wearing a black hoodie and light coloured three-quarter length jeans.
PC Laurence Harwood from Dacorum Local Crime Unit said: “I would like to reassure people that we are doing all we can to identify those responsible.
“I am keen to trace the two people who walked through the alleyway as they may have information which could greatly assist the investigation. If this was you, please get in touch.
“I would also like to hear from anyone else who may have information about the incident, or anyone who saw a group of people in the area around the time, matching the descriptions given.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dacorum Local Crime Unit on non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference D1/16/5998.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will never need to go to court.

Gang threatens man with knife in late-night robbery


A man in his 20s was threatened and beaten up by a gang when he refused to hand over his belongings.


An author and grandmother is studying for a masters degree for the first time at the age of 80.
Hilary Chalkly, of Swing Gate Lane in Berkhamsted, will enrol on the two-year MA course in creative writing at Kingston University next month.
She will be enrolling at the same time as thousands of excited 18-year-old ‘freshers’ across the country, but the mother-of-two believes you are never too old for higher education.
Mrs Chalkly, who lives with husband Syd, 76, and is mum to daughters Gill and Libby, said: “I want to impress on people that 80 is the new 60.
“I applied to Kingston tongue-in-cheek but I was absolutely gobsmacked when I got the email to say I had been accepted. I was thrilled!”
The course will be held one day a week over two years at the campus in South London, and is one of several writing-related courses Hilary has done since leaving school at the age of 15.
The grandmother-of-one, who spent 15 years working on Hemel Hospital Radio, said: “I’ve always dabbled in writing all my life. I was good at essays at school and I wrote a couple of articles for Melody Maker.
“I worked locally for many years before I retired. Then back in 2010, I was sat at the kitchen table with my two daughters and they said: ‘Mum, you’re vegetating’.
“It took someone to jar and jerk me to make me realise that I had become static,” said Hilary, who was born-and-bred in Berkhamsted.
Hilary, who is working on her first novel, flicked through a course prospectus for West Herts College and settled on creative writing.
Hilary got the studying bug so after the Dacorum course, she and her friends enrolled in a Workers’ Educational Association course in Leverstock Green.
Following a City Lit course which finished in July, Hilary and her pals set up their own writing club and now meet regularly in Holborn to critique each others’ work.
“Having others read your work is a really eye-opening experience,” said Hilary.
“I’m currently in the throes of a novel which is inspired by my grandparents’ house, where I used to go in the school holidays.”
Hilary is looking for fee sponsorship. If you can help, email thegazette@jpress.co.uk

Grandmother, 80, accepted on to university course


An author and grandmother is studying for a masters degree for the first time at the age of 80.


Jobseekers have been handed a welcome boost after Herts County Council received a £5.5 million grant to develop skills required to secure work.
The cash comes from The Big Lottery Fund and the European Social Fund to support the Building Better Opportunities programme which tackles poverty and promotes social inclusion.
It means jobseekers in Herts will receive intensive one-to-one support to address barriers to learning and employment.
Teresa Heritage, cabinet member for public health, localism and libraries, said: “We hope the programme will reach around 2,250 people in Hertfordshire over the next three years.
“There are many barriers to employment that people find hard to overcome.
“This programme will help to boost their confidence and iron out some of the problems they face.”
The Building Better Opportunities programme aims to tackle the root causes of poverty and unemployment, such as physical and mental health issues, homelessness and addiction.
It brings together public, private and voluntary organisations to create one of the biggest partnerships in the county.
The three strands of the programme are STRIVE (barriers to memployment), MILE (financial confidence) and Youth Motivator (young people).
Partners in the project include Herts MIND Network, DrugLink, SOVA, the Prince’s Trust and housing associations.
The bid was led by Hertfordshire Adult and Family Learning Service (HAFLS), part of Herts County Council, in conjunction with Children Services and Community Action Dacorum.
For more information about the Building Better Opportunities programme, go to www.biglotteryfund.org.uk


Jobseekers have been handed a welcome boost after Herts County Council received a £5.5 million grant to develop skills required to secure work.


Party plans are afoot to celebrate Olympic gymnast Max Whitlock’s Rio success in the coming weeks.
Dacorum Borough Council is currently in talks with Max’s parents Brian and Madeleine, who run Flower Pots Nursery in Adeyfield Road, and although plans are still under wraps they will be shared with the public once Max returns from South America.
Jessica Stretton, who will represent Great Britain in the Paralympic archery team next month
Andrew Williams, leader of Dacorum Borough Council, said: “I am sure I speak for everyone in Dacorum when I say we are truly proud of Max’s extraordinary success in Rio and for becoming the most decorated Olympic gymnast in British history.
“Max is a great role-model and shows that with hard work and dedication you can achieve greatness.
“We had the honour of celebrating Max’s success in 2012 for the London Olympics and we look forward to honouring our local hero again after the phenomenal results in Rio.
“Well done to Max and all those that supported him in his early career and on the path to Olympic glory.”
In just two hours on Sunday Whitlock, 23, scooped two gold medals – the first Olympic golds ever won by a British gymnast.
Whitlock was born in Hemel and got the taste for tumbling at the Sapphire School of Gymnastics in Mark Road, before focussing his efforts on gymnastics and aspiring to one day win Olympic gold.
Speaking after winning his second gold, former Longdean School pupil Max said: “I’ve completely outdone myself – it’s just incredible.
“You put hours and hours in the gym for years and years and you only get about one minute to show what you’ve ben working on.
“To do it today, at the Olympic Games, I don’t know what to say. I’m just so, so happy.
“Making history is an incredible feeling and for team GB and British gymnastics, hopefully it can inspire youngsters to come through.
“The results can spur them on, and hopefully the future is bright.”
BBC broadcaster Gabby Logan was among a whole host of celebrities who congratulated Whitlock. She Tweeted: “Incredible, just a phenomenal achievement. Another gold for magic Max. Sir Max Whitlock?”
Hemel Hempstead MP Mike Penning added his congratulations. “What an incredible achievement for Max,” he said. “I’m an honoured to have met him and his wonderful family several times and I am delighted at this result.
“He’s a great guy and worthy Olympian. He has truly made GB Olympic history.
“It shows what dedication and hard work can achieve.
“Local club Sapphire Gym, where Max started out his gymnastics career, can truly be proud of the part they played in helping him achieve his Olympic dream. It doesn’t get better than that.”
There were further Olympic success stories from Herts, as Joe Clarke, who trains at the Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Cross, won gold in kayak K1 class, and Steven Scott, who trains at Nuthampstead Shooting Club, won bronze in the men’s double trap shooting.
Teresa Heritage, cabinet member for public health, localism and libraries at Herts County Council and chair of the Hertfordshire Lifestyle and Legacy Partnership, congratulated the athletes.
She said: “Well done to Joe, Max and Steve on their wonderful achievements, which are testament to their hard work and dedication.
“We’re very proud to see Hertfordshire’s athletes making such a huge contribution to Britain’s success on the biggest sporting stage of all.”
But 23-year-old Max is not the only former Longdean School pupil to achieve great things in the sporting arena.
Jess Stretton, 16, earned a place on GB’s para-archery team after winning the World Championships in 2015, so the town will be cheering her on to bring back the gold when the Paralympics starts on September 7.
Jess will also be one of thousands of teenagers receiving their GCSE results next week.
For details about Max’s celebration, follow @DacorumBC on Twitter, search for Dacorum Borough Council on Facebook or visit www.dacorum.gov.uk


Party plans are afoot to celebrate Olympic gymnast Max Whitlock’s Rio success in the coming weeks.


People across West Herts are being urged to take part in an online survey about planned changes to hospital services.
Your Care Your Future is reviewing acute hospital services, and patient feedback will help to form the eventual preferred plan.
Health bosses currently have a number of options on the table, including a proposal put together by local patients for a new super-hospital equidistant from Hemel Hempstead, St Albans and Watford.
To take part, visit https://app.citizenspace.com/yourcareyourfuture/survey
For more information on Your Care, Your Future visit www.yourcareyourfuture.org.uk


People across West Herts are being urged to take part in an online survey about planned changes to hospital services.


A TV company is on the hunt for separated families and parents across the UK, to take part in a new Channel 5 series.
The show, with the working title of The Modern Family, wants to talk to people who would like help resolving any issues they feel are getting in the way of co-parenting, or getting on with an ex-partner for the sake of their children.
Separation affects around a quarter of children in the UK, with the common belief being that being brought up by both parents after separation, where safe and possible, is in the best interests of a child.
“Breaking up with a spouse or partner is one of life’s biggest upheavals,” said a spokesperson for producers Pulse Films. “The difficult part is getting to the stage where separated parents are still able to do things for the sake of the child, like arrange a joint birthday party, or attend a parents’ evening together.”
So the team at Pulse want to film with separated mums and dads who may have moved on to other relationships, and are keen to sort out the issues with their ex for the sake of the children.
Francine Kaye, relationship expert, family mediator and author of Divorce Doctor said: “Kids don’t divorce, parents do. Paradoxically couples need to understand each other more during and after separation, than they did when they were together - in order to parent effectively.”
Working under the guidance of a trained therapist, anyone who has children with an ex and has difficulty with the complicated relationships this has created, can get more information by texting ‘FAMILY’ or call: 07983 640463 / 07555 242 993, by emailing: modernfamily@pulsefilms.co.uk, or by calling Janette Hodds or Lyttanya Shannon on 0207 426 5700.


A TV company is on the hunt for separated families and parents across the UK, to take part in a new Channel 5 series.


Gazette reporter Becca Choules has won a national award after passing her NQJ examinations to become a senior reporter.
Becca, who joined the Gazette team 18 months ago, won the Society of Editors’ award for the best news interview.
She said: “I was absolutely over the moon to learn I had passed my NQJ exams, because I was so sure I’d have to re-sit. It was even more of a shock to be told my news interview paper had been chosen for the Society of Editors’ award. It was the icing on the cake.”
The senior examiner said: “Rebecca showed she has a good nose for hard news. She captured the drama of the story, but did not forsake the details. Her phrasing was excellent.
“She captured the reader’s attention immediately with a strong intro and backed it up with a compelling read from start to finish. Congratulations.”
Gazette content editor Ben Raza said: “It has been a real pleasure to work with Becca since we both joined the team 18 months ago.
“It’s rare to meet a reporter with so much pride in their local community, and such personal integrity. As a Tring girl born and bred she knows the patch extremely well - I couldn’t imagine a better chief reporter.”

National award for the Gazette’s Becca Choules


Gazette reporter Becca Choules has won a national award after passing her NQJ examinations to become a senior reporter.


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Neighbourhood Watch is offering advice to residents approached by door-to-door pedlars at their homes.


Nodding off in the middle of the day may be down to pollution generated by traffic, suggests new research.
The study shows exposure to traffic pollution is a trigger for daytime sleepiness - and may also trigger SNORING.
More than 12,000 adults were included in the Respiratory Health in Northern Europe (RHINE) study.
The findings show that people exposed to high levels of pollution had a 65 per cent greater chance of suffering from daytime sleepiness, compared to those who had no exposure.
Traffic noise in the bedroom was also a trigger - with people 46 per cent more likely to feel sleepy in the day if exposed.
And the research also suggests that people are also 29 per cent more likely to be a habitual snorer if they are exposed to traffic noise while they sleep.
Daytime sleepiness affected one in five people involved in the study, while one in four reported habitual snoring.
Ane Johannessen, an epidemiologist at Bergen University in Norway, wrote the study together with Professor Thorarinn Gislason and other Northern European researchers.
She said: “Exposure to traffic should be taken into account when planning treatment for patients with sleep disturbances, because reducing noise and pollution exposure in the bedroom may have a beneficial effect.
“Reducing exposure through relocating the bedroom away from pollution sources or making the bedroom more soundproof to protect against traffic noise, as well as mapping alternative and less polluted outdoor everyday routes may help patients with their sleep disorders.”
The study also showed that men, older subjects, smokers and those with lower education were more likely to report habitual snoring.
They were usually less physically active, with a higher BMI, and more likely to have a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
Women, older people, smokers, and those with lower education were more likely to report daytime sleepiness.
The new research is due to be presented at the European Respiratory Society’s International Congress in London next month.
Professor Jorgen Vestbo, President of ERS and Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Manchester, said: “The question of who snores may be a running joke in some households but for many snoring is a serious issue, with direct links to physical and mental well being and the same is true for daytime sleepiness.
“We want people to think more about the environment around them and the impact it can have - from the way they sleep to the air they breathe.”
To coincide with Congress, the ERS will be holding some free public lung function testing, starting in Trafalgar Square on September 2 and 3.

Sleepiness linked to traffic noise and pollution


Nodding off in the middle of the day may be down to pollution generated by traffic, suggests new research.


Kings Langley turned on the style to outplay Biggleswade Town and secure their first win in the Southern League Premier on Tuesday.
On a pitch of Crown Bowling green standards, Kings were finally able to demonstrate the qualities that have been the foundation of their rapid rise through the divisions and win 4-0.
A similar formation to the previous match saw Lewis Toomey and Immanuelson Duku again paired up front and this time Toomey was the provider, with an astute through ball from a Callum Adebiyi pass which Duku ran on to and took past defender and keeper, netting with confidence on 16 minutes.
Four minutes later it was his persistence, after approach work by Lewis Toomey and Dean Hitchcock, that doubled the lead when he chased a seemingly lost cause to outmuscle Russell Short and place a precision shot past keeper Ian Brown.
Robbie Parker had a shot tipped round the post by Xavi Comas and Gavin Hoyte put a header just over as the Waders tried to find a way back, while Callum Adebiyi came close at the other end.
Any thoughts of again letting a two goal lead disappear were quickly dispelled as the central midfield trio of Gary Connolly, Dean Hitchcock and Ollie Cox simply took control after the interval.
The new wing back pairing of Jack Pattison, back after a lengthy injury and Jack Waldren, making his debut, grew in confidence as the match progressed, culminating in King’s third goal by the latter on the hour.
Ollie Cox swung a high centre into the box, the keeper got his punch to the ball above the head of Toomey, only for it to fall to Waldren on the edge of the box to fire home via post and Brown’s fingertips.
Town’s woes increased when Craig Daniel was shown a straight red for a high challenge that left Cox with sore ribs and Inih Effiong blasted over in a rare attack.
Kings introduced Sean Coughlan, David Hutton and Oran Swales and they combined for Coughlin to blast home a Swales cross for the fourth as the substitutions increased the visitors dominance.
A breath-taking all round performance that went a long way to answering some of the questions asked by the management.
Kings host Frome on Saturday.

Kings Langley outplay Waders to win first Premier match


Kings Langley turned on the style to outplay Biggleswade Town and secure their first win in the Southern League Premier on Tuesday.


Newcastle Thunder ran in 13 tries as they dominated Hemel Stags to win 66-10 at Penine Way on Sunday.
Hemel looked a decent side when they were in possession but in truth they saw very little of the ball. Stand off Lewis Young bagged a hat trick and showed class all afternoon as Newcastle bossed the middle of the park.
Hemel were not allowed to settle as the visitors chalked up two tries in the opening six minutes, the first in the corner for Blair and a power play on the last getting Young his first of his three.
Hardcastle bagged the easier second conversion, he was to be successful in six of his 12 kicks in the windy conditions.
Hemel had been caught cold but got on the front foot and started to trouble Thunder, Maloney fed Mitch Vincent on 14 minutes who danced his way to the line. Steady conversion bringing the Stags to within four points. The gap was soon stretched by Thunder as Olpherts broke free to feed Young who went in under the sticks.
Newcastle were on a roll now and tries by Joe Brown in the corner and Thorburn with a clever scoot effectively put the game to bed.
Ex-Hemel player Derrel Olpherts made the final try of the half with another speedy run, Gioele Celerino benefitting from his pass to canter over the line.
Thunder started the second half as they did the first, an unconverted try for Centre Joe Brown restarting the scoreboard ticking four minutes in. Almost straight away Thunder scored again as Hemel kicked out on the full from the restart, Craig Robertson finishing the move.
Tries by Aldous, made by Young, then Rhys Clarke brought up the visitor’s half century. A length of the field move ended with Ruediger dotting the ball down then Rennie got a clever try before Young finished his hat trick on 70 minutes, dancing through the Hemel defence that had just held out for three repeat sets.
Hemel never gave up and with five minutes to go a nifty kick through by Vincent was collected by himself and he ran through for four points.
Hemel were left to rue their slow start to the game and Newcastle will have taken a lot of positives towards the play offs to come.
Stags head to South Wales Scorpion next on Sunday, September 4.
Hemel Stags: 1 Josh Spearing, 5 Paul Beckett-Stewart, 3 Harrison Brough, 4 Bj Swindells, 18 Tala Petelo, 6 Mitch Vincent, 7 Ben Stead, 10 Dom Maloney, 9 Jono Burns, 8 Aaron Hall, 11 Dave O’Connor, 17 Reece Williams, 13 Malakai Lloyd-Jones,
Subs, All Used: 21 Dylan Readman, 15 Liam O’Callaghan, 23 Mike Stewart, 16 Matt Ross,
Scorers: Tries, Vincent (14) (75); Goals, Stead 1/2


Newcastle Thunder ran in 13 tries as they dominated Hemel Stags to win 66-10 at Penine Way on Sunday.


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Police are re-appealing for help to trace Michael Mason, who is wanted for failing to appear at court and in connection with allegations of making threats to kill.


Berko smashed five without reply past toothless London Tigers on Saturday to go third in the SSML Premier
Berkhamsted kept faith with the eleven that won at Holmer Green and they again kept a clean sheet.
The first half was competitive with Berko having the lion’s share of possession and it was the metalwork that saved the Tigers twice. Adam Mead struck the cross bar and Scott Bonner did too as Berko pressed for the opening goal.
The breakthrough came when a defender tripped Ikem Odeh inside the penalty box at the canal end, with Mead netting from the spot kick despite a brave dive by Ini Amagebe in the visiting goal.
Ten minutes into the second half Alex Campana scored a special solo goal waltzing through the defence, beating five men in a mazy run before firing into the net. He had another shot kicked off the line as Berko were now rampant.
The introduction of Ashton Campbell demoralised the visitors as he struck two goals in a 10 minute spell. His first was a close range volley after another substitute George Carbery had tricked his way behind the defence while his second was a shot from further out with a clinical piece of finishing.
Berko were now spraying the ball around nicely making use of their time on the ball. Connor Deadman was released with just the keeper to beat but one of several fine saves kept the score down.
Amagebe was again exposed and got a yellow card for bringing down a forward who was about to shoot. Berko’s top scorer Mead took the free kick and curled it over the wall to round off the scoring.
On Saturday in the SSML Premier Division Berko go to Cockfosters, a team that are only behind them on goal difference.
Berko: Tasker, Mead, Weeks, Baldry, Bonner, Rodrigoe, Jones, Hawes, Campana (Deadman), Lewis (Carbery), Odeh (Campbell). Unused subs - Ryan & Carter.


Berko smashed five without reply past toothless London Tigers on Saturday to go third in the SSML Premier


QUIZ: How well do you know your retro games?


Can you get 10/10 in our retro games quiz?


Kings Langley are still searching for their first home win in the Southern League Premier after a 2-1 reverse against Redditch United on Saturday
Redditch got off to a lively start in this fixture, switched to Kings Langley because of ground problems. But Kings had the best early chance when keeper Brad Catlow was forced to save a Connor Toomey shot with his feet.
A tight game flowed from end to end, chances for United seeing Jazz Luckie going close and Kyle Anthony heading off the line from the resultant corner and an acrobatic Danico Johnson shot flashing past the post.
Langley also had their fair share with Sean Coughlan hitting a first time shot on the run just off target and heading an Emmanuel Folarin cross the wrong side of the upright. United made another quick start to the second period with Xavi Comas beating out an Eli Bako shot and Dean Hitchcock clearing the second effort off the line and then Liam Spink hit the post when through.
Kings weathered that particular storm and then applied ten minutes of almost constant pressure with Lewis Toomey and Ryan Plowright testing Catlow, but when United did get off the ropes, it was to devastating effect.
Just past the hour Comas made a superb save from a point blank shot, but the ball fell kindly for Eli Bako, whose fierce volley took a deflection past the recovering keeper.
Sean Coughlan almost immediately hit a post at the other end after being put through by Lewis Toomey and Langley looked more than capable of restoring parity, while Xavi Comas pulled off a flying save to put him in the running for Kings’ star award.
Then it all went wrong for the home side with quarter of an hour to go as another long ball for the speedy Danico Johnson resulted in a coming together with Comas, just outside the box.
The keeper was red carded and Reece Hales planted a low free kick past stand in Kyle Anthony into the right hand corner.
The ten men threw caution to the winds with three up front, dominating possession and questioning United’s apparent lack of further ambition.
They were rewarded in the final minute of normal time when Oran Swales left wing run found Lewis Toomey, who squared for Sean Coughlin to run the ball in, but there was to be no fairy-tale comeback, as the whistle sounded minutes later leaving Kings still chasing that first elusive home win.


Kings Langley are still searching for their first home win in the Southern League Premier after a 2-1 reverse against Redditch United on Saturday


Bryony Page may have wowed crowds by becoming the first Brit to win an Olympic medal on a trampoline.
But new research suggests injuries sustained from indoor trampoline parks are an “emerging health concern”.
The warning comes after a study recorded 40 children needed medical treatment at one hospital in the space of just six months after trampoline accidents at an indoor park.
Last week 25-year-old Bryony won a silver medal in Rio, performing twists and turns at a staggering 30ft.
But while many youngsters may wish to emulate her, researchers stress the danger of using indoor trampoline parks, where many kids bounce simultaneously, on beds placed in close proximity to each other.
Researchers reviewed the medical records of Australian children under 17, who sought medical treatment at a children’s emergency care department between July 2014 and January 2015.
The team focussed solely on injuries sustained whilst at a trampoline park.
During a six month period, the team recorded 40 child patients, 55 per cent of which were girls, requiring treatment for their injuries.
The average age of each child patient was 10, but the youngest was just a year old.
Most of the injuries, a third, occurred while the child was on the trampoline.
And a fifth - 18 per cent - of the injuries were caused by a failed landing.
But in eight cases, the injury was the result of several different children of different sizes using the trampoline at the same time.
The research, published in the journal Injury Prevention, revealed over half of the children (52.5%) injured were simply jumping and not attempting any flips or somersaults at the time.
Six children injured themselves by landing awkwardly on something on the trampoline, such as protective padding designed to prevent falls.
Bruising and sprained ankles were the most common injuries, with 55% of the children’s medical records detailing these.
A third fractured elbow and ankle bones.
But for five children, their injuries were more serious and required surgery and a hospital admission.
Author Dr Christopher Mulligan, from The University of New South Wales said: “Most children were injured while involved in simple jumping activities (52.5%).
“However, five children (12.5%) were injured while attempting somersaults or flips.
“Six children were injured when they came into contact with something while on the trampoline.
“This included two children who landed on balls, and four children who landed on, or caught their feet in, the less elastic padding surrounding them or the hard surface floor.
“In terms of the injuries observed, the majority of patients presented with a soft tissue injury or sprain ( 55%) or fractured bone(s) (37.5%).
“One child sustained a lip laceration. One child presented with concussion, and one with chest pain.
“The lower extremity was the most frequent site of injury (67.5%), followed by the upper extremity (15%).
“The most common sprains were of the ankle. The most common fractures were supracondylar fractures of the elbow and fractures of the ankle.
“There was one fracture/dislocation of a cervical vertebra. No patients sustained a loss of consciousness.”
He added children using trampolines at home are more at risk of falling off it as they are raised above the ground or falling through the padding.
But at centres “double bouncing, or multiple users on a single trampoline, carried a significant risk for injury.
“This occurred particularly when small children were jumping with larger peers
or other adults.”
The study was published in the BMJ’ s Injury Prevention.


Bryony Page may have wowed crowds by becoming the first Brit to win an Olympic medal on a trampoline.


It was a night to forget as Maidenhead comprehensively beat visitors Hemel 5-0 at York Road on Tuesday evening with four goals by in form striker Dave Tarpey.
There was little sign of the carnage to come as both sides created little in the first 30 minutes and with Hemel trying to get their passing game going it was they who just edged the early exchanges, without causing keeper Carl Pentney too many problems.
As the half hour mark approached, Maidenhead’s more direct approach saw them start to create chances and an early warning sign was there for all to see as Tarpey skipped clear of a static defence but his shot from the angle was well saved by Jonathan Henly.
On 37 minutes Tarpey raced clear again down the left and this time he made no mistake, tucking the ball into the corner to make it 1-0.
A minute later and down the same flank, a ball was knocked over the top and with the Tudors back four all looking at each other, Harry Pritchard wasted no time in crossing to an unmarked Tarpey who hammered the ball home from a yard out.
The second period carried on in the same way as the first with Hemel trying to be patient and pass their way forward but it was The Magpies who looked the more dangerous with their pace and direct play.
Just three minutes in, Tarpey beat the offside trap and bore down on Henly, but this time, the forward could only shoot straight at the onrushing keeper.
James Mulley on the other flank was also causing problems for the visitors and he brought two great saves out of Henly in very quick succession and another effort from a freekick by Tarpey was also well kept out by the keeper. At this point Hemel’s custodian was keeping his side in the game but it wasn’t for long and in the 68th minute, it was that man, Tarpey who completed a deserved hatrick when he once again, raced clear of Hemel’s rearguard, rounded the unfortunate Henly and slotted home.
He hadn’t finished there and it was soon 4-0, Hemel had brought on Dave King for a welcome return to right back but before he had even touched the ball the excellent Sean Marks, who had been a brilliant foil for both his partners up front, headed the ball back across goal to Tarpey who tucked the ball home for his fourth of the evening.
The diminutive striker was then subbed and received a standing ovation from the home and healthy following of away fans with ten minutes to go.
Sub Christian Smith then rubbed salt into the wounds by getting the fifth with his first touch in the 84th minute.
Few positives then for the Hemel faithful who have seen their side ship eight goals in two away games without reply and it doesn’t get any easier with a tough trip to Kent to face title favourites and big spenders Ebbsfleet United on Saturday.
The Tudors conceded six in the same fixture last season and the loyal travelling away fans will be hoping their side can start to find some form, sooner rather than later.
It’s still early days and with some players making their way back from injury manager Dean Brennan will be praying it won’t be too long before his side gets back into their winning ways.
Hemel 1: Jonathan Henly 2:Kyle Connolly 3:Jack Kelly 4:Arnaud Mendy 5:Harly Wise 6:Jordan Rose 7:Mitchell Weiss(14: Scott Neilson) 8:James Potton 9:Jake Robinson 10:Sam Corcoran ©(17:Matt Spring) 11: Graeme Montgomery (12:David King) Subs not used 15: Ed Asafu-ADjaye 16: James Kalochi.
Tudors man of the match : Mitchell Weiss
Attendance 483 Tudors fans 50+


It was a night to forget as Maidenhead comprehensively beat visitors Hemel 5-0 at York Road on Tuesday evening with four goals by in form striker Dave Tarpey.


The chance to stay in one of the country’s biggest castles with the promise of Knight School, Horrible Histories and huge looming turrets to explore was like music to my eight-year-old audience’s ears.
“So we get to play all day, then have a knights’ sleepover as well?” Even with mum and dad in tow he knew he was in for something special. And I wasn’t unexcited myself.
At over 1,100 years old Warwick Castle offers its 21st century visitors free reign to explore magnificent stately rooms, dungeons and impressive grounds.
And its owners, Merlin Entertainments have brought history to life with a flaming fireball launch from the trebuchet (the largest in the world ), breath taking displays from enormous birds of prey, blood and guts from the Horrible Histories, spooks and ghouls undergrounds, jousting, archery, knights and endlessly more.
But the best part? Now, you don’t even have to go home. When the castle closes its gates the fun is only just beginning as another exciting adventure awaits – the promise of a sleepover in the shadows of kings.
The castle has been home - and imprisonment - to kings and earls, hosted royal banquets and parties and even has links to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. So the latest addition of year-round camping lodges at Knight’s Village really does mean a sleepover steeped in history.
No time to make it round the maze or see the joust? We can come back tomorrow morning after breakfast. The words are like magic to my little knight-in-training. And even mum and dad are tingling to wake up in such magnificent grounds after enjoying an evening by the river and some of the best views you could ever wish for.
An afternoon arrival showed us that a day at the castle just isn’t enough. But once evening arrived there really was a whole new adventure waiting.
Families can banquet in the great food hall where majestic thrones, flags and plates of armour take you right back hundreds of years. But what really grabbed our attention was the entertainment and chance for children to go wild.
The castle’s brilliant staff pulled everything out of the bag for the youngsters. Circus skills, archery, more knight and sword training – it was a summer Kids Club, but one where the grown-ups are elbowing to get involved as well. Though the less interested still get to enjoy a superb evening relaxing on the porch, watching the fun and basking in the last of the sunshine.
But of course, the centrepiece of Knight’s Village - the lodges. They’re great. With everything from mod-cons (plugs, and WiFi) to replica weaponry and armour, there’s something to keep all ages happy.
Unless you go for the premium, they’re on the cosy side. But with hundreds of years of history on your doorstep, there’s certainly no reason to want to cram inside and watch television.
And of course if it’s sunny and you have a taste for something a bit more medieval, you can get yourself booked up for Glamping and take on a huge cloth tent, complete with four-poster beds and a pair of thrones to watch over the evening entertainment as the sun sets.
It was as peaceful and entertaining a night as you could hope for, with happy children and happy mum and dad all looking forward to a return to the banquet for a hearty breakfast and another go at flag spotting.
The best bit about sleeping among the trees where inspiring history once unfolded? Waking up to stunning views in complete tranquillity. Looking out over the new camping village (which prides itself on not harming the historic grounds in any way and that not one tree was felled in its construction), you really can imagine yourself hundreds of years back in time.
And being able to head back through the gates to do it all again for a second day of exploring.
Warwick Castle’s Knight’s Village is as magical as you could expect from a stay in a truly historic location, and with activities continuing well into the night, acres of grounds to explore, and a historic town just metres outside, there’s no reason not to be excited.
Earning an excited thumbs up from mesmerised children, the stay really delivered as the perfect place to enjoy history on your doorstep this summer.
Warwick Castle’s Knight’s Village offers seasonal stays in Glamping tents or year-round accommodation in its wooden lodges. Prices start from £41.30 per person.
Visit www.Warwick-castle.com to book or more information.

TRAVEL REVIEW: Exclusive sleepover at one of the country’s biggest historical castles


The chance to stay in one of the country’s biggest castles with the promise of Knight School, Horrible Histories and huge looming turrets to explore was like music to my eight-year-old audience’s ears.


Video game escapism in its purest form.
No Man’s Sky in undeniably a work of art, but have you got time to look around the whole gallery?
No Man’s Sky launched last week after much hype and billed as quite literally the biggest video game ever made.
The self-perpetuating game, which promises to be potentially endless, was four years in the making by a tiny team in game production terms. And you can tell as it will instantly take your breath away.
Make no mistake there has never been anything like this before. As you fly ever deeper into the universe, new planets and solar systems roll silently into view – some will have been seen before, others discovered for the very first time. And you have 18 quintillion of them to choose from...
Each has its own set of flora, fauna and inhabitants. By exploring, players gain information about the planets that they can submit to The Atlas, a universal database that can be shared with other players of the game and for which they are rewarded in currency each time.
Each planet is a work of art you could spend hours studying, analysing and dissecting. These works of art are housed in an endless gallery and for art connoisseurs it will be Manna from heaven.
However, most people’s playing time will be finite.... unless you’re at university and can afford to miss the odd class here and there to squeeze in just one more exploration of a peculiar alien planet.
And that is where one of the game’s key sticking points comes in. As much as No Man’s Sky takes us to Infinity and leaves us wondering what waits beyond, there is also an almost irresistible itch which you can’t scratch because you can never truly “complete” this game in the traditional sense.
But that is very much a personal take on NMS, many people might enjoy jumping on for a couple of hours here and there, discovering lots of different things and logging it to the Atlas, if anything it could be cathartic but many people like a beginning, a middle and an end to their games.
No Mans Sky is undeniably a work of art
The care, thought, time and brilliance that has gone into this utterly original video game is mindblowing and deserves to be experienced by PlayStation gamers.
It is the purest form of video game escapism we have ever seen and should be celebrated as such.
But it will more likely go down as a cult classic than the blockbuster success it’s craft deserves.


Follow our live updates from across Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted and Tring on GCSE results day.
LAUNCH LIVE STREAM: Click here to get involved, post your results, share your news and pictures and have your say on our live feed covering the GCSE results as they come in from across Dacorum.
If you’re collecting your GCSE results today (Thursday August 25), the date will probably mark the first time you’ve ever picked up formal exam results.
The grades you get will provide you with important qualifications and help you progress onto A-levels or further study. There’s no getting away from the fact that it can be a stressful day so it’s good to be as relaxed and ready as you can.
Here is some great advice from The Student Room website on GCSE results day.
Staying calm for GCSE results day 2016
If you’re feeling anxious about results day, try to look after yourself in the days before. When you’re feeling stressed, getting some exercise can help clear your head. It doesn’t have to be a massive gym session - just a quick jog or a brisk walk will do the job.
Look out for what you’re eating as well. Steer clear of junk food and aim for healthy food such as nuts and veggies. It will help keep your blood sugar levels on an even keel and keep your head clear.
With the school routine a distant memory, late nights can easily become the order of the day. But it’s no fun feeling half-asleep on a day when you really need your wits about you. Try to get some early nights in the run-up to results day, so your sleep pattern gets back to normal.
How to prepare for GCSE results day
On the day, make sure you pack your mobile phone so you can give your parents a call after getting your results.
Pro tip: as you reveal your results to them, read the grades from lowest to highest. Pack a bottle of water and some tissues. Make sure you’re not running on an empty stomach, grab a bit of breakfast before you head down to school.
Decide where you want to open your GCSE results
Imagine your best and worst case scenario, and think about whether you’re happy to experience whatever ‘success’ or ‘failure’ means to you on your own or with friends.”
Some students nip off to a toilet cubicle to open their results, others rip them open in front of their friends and teachers. Everyone’s different, so make sure you’re not peer-pressured into opening your results with friends if you’re not feeling comfortable or confident.
It’s best to be somewhere at school to open your results, so you can get advice from your teachers if you need it. But you can always take them home to open them if you prefer.
You might find there’s a photographer from the local newspaper wanting to get snaps of celebrating (and commiserating) students. If you’re camera shy and private, you’ll want to avoid the hustle and bustle. If not, make sure you read our guide to the perfect results day jump to maximise your chances of local paper glory.
Your GCSE grades and how much they matter
When you first look at your list of GCSE results, English language and maths are the key qualifications to look out for. Getting a C or above is great news; at least a C in English and maths GCSEs is often requested as an essential by sixth-form colleges, universities and employers.
If you’ve missed out on the C grade, especially if it’s by a narrow margin, you’ll want to consider applying for a remark or retakes. You’re allowed to retake English and maths in November, with other subjects you’ll have to wait until the following June.
People often find there are one or two subjects where their grades have slipped a little. If that happens to you, try to focus on the positive grades you’ve got. English and maths aside, having one or two poor GCSE grades is not going to hinder you in the future.
If you’ve performed generally under your expectations, again you shouldn’t worry. If you’ve managed to get into your sixth form college of choice, then it’s time to look forward and not to dwell on your results.
And if your results went well: congratulations! It’s time to celebrate, relax and plan for what comes next. Either way, good luck on GCSE results day.


Follow our live updates from across Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted and Tring on GCSE results day.


Some say lightning doesn't strike the same place twice. But that may not be the case for a Reynolds, North Dakota rancher. Paul Lenz raises SimAngus cattle, and according to livestock specialists what happened on his farm is out of this world.

Rare second set of triplets a surprise for ND rancher


WORTHINGTON -- Members of the Worthington City Council gathered for an early morning meeting Friday to begin discussions on the city’s 2017 budget. It was the first of two budget meetings scheduled within a week, with the second meeting slated for 7 a.m. Tuesday.
Friday’s agenda included overviews by department heads in public safety, engineering and community and economic development, with a brief synopsis of the aquatic center’s fund to wrap up the two-hour meeting.
The overall budget as presented by departments reflects a 19.79 percent levy increase over 2016, with a $4,122,653 net levy, up from the $3,441,568 levied in 2016. Preliminary expenditures in 2017 include a cost of living increase of 2.5 percent for city employees and a 6 percent increase in the city’s share of health insurance.
Worthington City Administrator Steve Robinson said the council will continue to tweak the budget leading up to its Sept. 12 meeting, when it will need to set the not-to-exceed levy for the city. Once the not-to-exceed levy is set, the council has until Dec. 12 to continue working on the final budget.
During Friday’s initial budget discussions, Worthington Police Chief Troy Appel walked council members through a proposed public safety budget of nearly $4.4 million, which includes both the police and fire departments. Among the highlights of the public safety budget is the replacement of five vehicles, including two unmarked and three squad cars, in 2017.
“Five is a pretty high replacement, but we didn’t have any replacements in 2016,” City Finance Director Brian Kolander said.
Appel also discussed the need to replace the city’s civil defense sirens. There are currently nine sirens located throughout the community, and Appel said they would be replaced with five new sirens over a period of eight years, from 2018 through 2026.
“The sirens are an ambitious goal,” Appel said, noting that each one costs $25,000. “The sirens we have are really outdated -- the models … went out 20 years ago and the company will no longer have parts to replace them.”
The five new sirens will provide better overall coverage for the city, unlike the nine in use today, he added.
In addition to funding the first of the new civil sirens in 2018, Appel also noted a $25,000 expense coming in 2018 budget for the purchase of 12 to 13 body cameras for officers within the WPD.
“The state is highly recommending it,” Appel said, adding that there would be enough cameras for each on-duty officer, as well as spares in the event batteries need to be charged or there are problems with a camera. He said there will be a policy for officers on when cameras can and cannot be turned off.
Dwayne Haffield, the city’s director of engineering, presented a budget he described as “largely unchanged” from 2016. Among the planned equipment purchases for his department for 2017 are a computer workstation and replacement of surveying equipment.
Haffield’s department also oversees the city’s Clean Water Partnership fund, which currently has a reserve balance of approximately $800,000. Haffield said the city’s share of a proposed water storage basin on the former Prairie View Golf Links is $146,250, which represents 25 percent of the project’s cost. The Okabena-Ocheda Watershed District applied for a state Clean Water, Land and Legacy grant to fund 75 percent of the project.
“We think we have a good enough project that it should get funded,” Haffield said, cautioning that the state grant may not be awarded for the project in this first round.
The final presentation of the morning was from Brad Chapulis, the city’s director of community and economic development. He said plans are to engage a consultant late this fall to help guide the city through designs and regulations for the Oxford Street redevelopment project.
Chapulis updated the council on new revenues in 2017, including the first homes constructed under the Nobles Home Initiative coming onto the tax rolls, and the addition of the Prairie Holdings building (former Prairie Expo) back on the tax rolls in 2017. Chapulis also mentioned the $116,906 still available through the Worthington Rediscovered program to address blighted properties, and the Worthington Event Center’s current fund balance of $71,800.
“We are projecting to have the (Memorial) Auditorium and the event center paid off in August or September 2017,” Robinson noted.
Robinson also brought up the budget for the aquatic center, which is shared with the Worthington Area YMCA. The city developed a fund for future maintenance and repairs of the aquatic center, putting in $100,000 annually initially, and reducing that to $50,000 in recent years.
“Initially, the idea was to take care of our share of repairs to the aquatic center, but also to put together a depreciation fund to replace the aquatic center at some date many years in the future,” Robinson said, adding that the reserve fund is now built up to $831,000.
The budget discussion will continue Tuesday with a focus on public works, airport and recreation; Prairie View and soccer; Memorial Auditorium and other areas of city government.