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Woburn Safari Park is holding a new fundraising fortnight for charity Tusk with activities that include a rare twilight walk into the Duke of Bedford’s private estate with engendered Asian elephants.
Woburn Safari Park is home to five Asian elephants, a species that is endangered in the wild largely because of human-elephant conflict, habitat loss, deforestation and loss of vital food and water resources.
Endangered Asian elephants will roam the Woburn Estate
The Park has provided us this exclusive video footage of the elephants enjoying a roam around the Duke’s private estate.
Special activities to raise funds for the charity have been organised, with mini VIP trips to see the majestic animals up close and a unique evening event that includes an exclusive guided tour of the park, a twilight walk with a herd of endangered Asian elephants in the woodlands of Woburn’s private estate and a special conservation talk from Charlie Mayhew MBE, the CEO of Tusk.
There will also be daily games and face painting sessions in the Foot Safari, and all profits from the events and activities will be donated to Tusk. HRH the Duke of Cambridge and Lord Robin Russell, the Duke of Bedford’s brother, are also royal patrons of the charity.
Tomorrow (Thursday August 25), the Bedfordshire park will open its gates for a rare evening walk with a herd of Asian elephants in the woodlands of the Duke of Bedford’s private estate. Accompanied by park keepers, guests will enjoy exclusive access to the elephants’ playground, follow the female herd and watch them feed, dust, bathe and play together in a serene woodland environment. There will also be the chance to meet 23-month old elephant calf, Tarli.
Endangered Asian elephants will roam the Woburn Estate
The experience also includes an exclusive after-hours tour of the Road Safari reserves to see the big animals, as well as a conservation talk in the Safari Lodge by Charlie Mayhew MBE, founder and CEO of Tusk. The talk will reveal the charity’s fascinating work behind 50 field conservation projects in 18 African countries. There will then be a delicious barbeque with two complimentary drinks on the terrace, which boasts breath-taking views over the Desert Springs meerkat enclosure and Swan Lake.
And until August 29 special mini VIP Trips will allow visitors to come face-to-face with the animals in the Road Safari or Foot Safari.
For more information visit the website.

VIDEO: Endangered Asian elephants roam Duke’s private estate


Woburn Safari Park is holding a new fundraising fortnight for charity Tusk with activities that include a rare twilight walk into the Duke of Bedford’s private estate with engendered Asian elephants.


Gade Valley Harriers once again took over Jarman Park Athletics ground to pit themselves against The Magic Mile last Wednesday.
The Harriers were asked to guess how fast they could each run one mile on the track and were awarded penalty points for each second they were adrift of their guesses.
Gade Valley Tri triathletes Dean Kidd, Andy Terry Jon Roberts and Guy Woollett. PNL-160822-132059002
At the end of the races the penalty points were added up and were compared men against ladies, with the team with the lowest number of penalty points being awarded The Captains Cup.
There were 26 competitors this year and the men were closest to the mark retaining the Captains Cup for the second year in a row. There were great performances all round on the night, including new club records for Tracey Cotton in the FM35 category (6:26) and Andy Cook in the MV50 group (5:41).
Gade Valley Tri triathletes Dean Kidd, Andy Terry .Jon Roberts and Guy Woollett pushed themselves to the limit on Sunday competing in the gruelling Cotswold Classic Half Iron Man Triathlon.
First back for the team was Jon Roberts posting 37:33 for the swim, 2:35:40 for the bike ride and 1:40:15 for the run. Next home was Wollett in 34:57, 2:41:55 and 1:39:36. Kidd completed the 1.2 mile open water swim in 48:06, the 56 mile bike ride in 2:53:31 and the 13.1 mile run in 2:30:23, giving a total time of 6:17:01, setting a new PB by over 31 minutes. Team mate Terry showed respectable times of 45:21, 3:17:45 and 2:09:57.
The swim section started at Ashton Keynes water park in the heart of the Cotswolds, then the two lap bike section bike section left the water park and headed out of the area on a flat and fast course into some of the Cotswolds’ most beautiful and quiet villages.
For the final run section the athletes were treated to a mixture of tarmac and hard pack pathing for the 13.1 mile route that took in lakeside paths, as well as local village routes before finishing back close to the lakeside transition in the finishers area.
Serena Harrap from GVH took on the infamous Tough Mudder obstacle race on Sunday for the fourth time. Harrup dug deep to get round the 12 mile course and through the 20+ obstacles including mud pits, rope swings and their trademark electric cables.
Competing at the Kimbolton Half Marathon in Cambridgeshire, James Birnie raced around the 13.1 mile course in the beautiful and historic village of Kimbolton, pushing hard to set a time of 1:36:06.
Braving the unseasonal rainy weather 28 Gade Valley Harriers took to eight different parkruns at the weekend
There was a great turnout of 18 Harriers at the St Albans parkrun, with many new PBs and club records being smashed. The first club record was the Senior Ladies 5K record, now held by Ladies Captain Gemma Bitaraf, posting 19:52 (PB) and securing first lady home. Also taking a title was Tracey Cotton, who took top spot in the GVH FV35 category in a time of 22:03 (PB).
The full list of finishers was Anthony James 17:52, Matt Ashby 18:04 (PB), Anthony Willcox 19:14 (PB), Ed Price 19:18, Steve Newing 19:49, Vince Ellerby 19:52, Gemma Bitaraf 19:52 (PB), James Thomson 20:09, Simon Wallis 20:47, Paul Reilly 21:48, Gary Mullery 21:56, Gareth Tucker 21:57, Tracey Cotton 22:03 (PB), Russ Bailey 24:45, Tom Roberts 24:31, Paul Buxton 24:33, Charlie Costin 29:13 and Paul Rumble 29:44.
Scott Dixon took second overall place at the Gadebridge Park parkrun, posting a quick time of 19:27. Dixon was followed by Bill Hawes in 20:29 (PB), Andy Bishop 26:17 and Emma Nash 45:20.
Tilgate in West Sussex saw Peter Tucker from the Harriers set a time of 30:39, while in Oxford, his daughter Sam, clocked 24:40.
There was one Harrier apiece at the Tring, Cassiobury Park, and Burnham parkruns with Tom North setting a time of 21:12, Andy Button 25:51 and Mark Crabtree 18:02 respectively.

Magic mile runs from Gade Valley Harriers


Gade Valley Harriers once again took over Jarman Park Athletics ground to pit themselves against The Magic Mile last Wednesday.


The guarantee by the Treasury that farming will continue to be financially supported by the British government up to 2020 in the wake of Brexit has given much needed clarity to farmers, and this is welcomed by the National Farmers Union (NFU).The news should mean that farmers can count on receiving financial aid for, amongst other things, agri-environmental schemes already in place, to take them through to their conclusion.
NFU president Meurig Raymond said he was extremely pleased to hear the news following his discussions with Secretary of State Andrea Leadsom, her department and the Treasury over recent weeks. He said this was good news for farmers and certainty in the short term now allows time for the industry and DEFRA to formulate a domestic agricultural policy that is fit for purpose.
Mr Raymond said: “ We’ve been emphasising to the government at all levels that the success of the UK’s largest manufacturing sector - food and drink - worth £108 billion to the UK economy, is underpinned by the farming sector. With the agricultural budget now retained and agri-environment agreements honoured, I am delighted that the Prime Minister and DEFRA have understood the importance of farming and food production.”

FARMING MATTERS: Guaranteed support for farmers following Brexit


The guarantee by the Treasury that farming will continue to be financially supported by the British government up to 2020 in the wake of Brexit has given much needed clarity to farmers, and this is welcomed by the National Farmers Union (NFU).The news should mean that farmers can count on receiving financial aid for, amongst other things, agri-environmental schemes already in place, to take them through to their conclusion.


Rock-bottom Watford Ladies suffered a frustrating 2-1 defeat to struggling rivals Millwall Lionesses in the FA Women’s Super League 2.
Anne-Laure Davy’s equalising goal on 53 minutes looked to have secured a share of the spoils for Watford after Ashlee Hincks’ opener.
But just eight minutes after the leveller, Millwall’s Lucy Loomes scored what proved to be the winner.
Watford scorer Davy said:
“It’s a very disappointing result for us. We got back in to the game, kept pushing and pushing and we were very motivated.
“We had the belief and we thought we could go on and win the game but it wasn’t enough.
“After they scored again, we tried very hard to get it back, but that’s football, we tried hard to make it 2-2 but we didn’t do quite enough today.
“It’s frustrating for all of us because it was a massive game for us and for them, we knew that.
“We kept possession very well in the second half. Everybody worked very hard and that’s why it’s so frustrating to come away with nothing. But I think it will come.
“We worked really hard we just need that little break. Everything will fall into place eventually.”
The defeat leaves Watford four points adrift of Millwall at the bottom of the table.
Watford team: Watford: (4-5-1): Lucy Gillett; Lauren Jordinson, Ruby Baxter Nicole Pepper, Amber Tullett; Jordan Littleboy, Anneka Nuttall, Charlotte Kerr, Phoebe Read, Adekite Fatuga-Dada; Anne Laure-Davy. Substitutes: Otesha Charles for Anne-Laure Davy 61, Stacie Donnelly for Jordan Littleboy 81, Mollie Burgess for Lauren Jordinson 90. Substitutes not used: Weronika Baranowska, Mollie Burgess, Hannah Samuels.

Watford Ladies cut adrift after Millwall loss at Berko


Rock-bottom Watford Ladies suffered a frustrating 2-1 defeat to struggling rivals Millwall Lionesses in the FA Women’s Super League 2.


Matt Adcock reviews David Brent: Life On The Road (15)
“I’m gonna roll you over, and rock you stupid, and leave you there just humming...”
David Brent is back. I never thought I’d write those words but here is the middle-aged master loser – on the big screen as a documentary team follow his dream of a ‘rock tour’ to save him from life as a sanitary products sales rep.
The Office was incredible TV, that made you wince and laugh in equal measure, the likes of which we haven’t fully seen since.
David Brent: Life On The Road picks up the potent unfulfilled dreams of Slough’s favourite office manager and presents the full horror of what happens when Brent cashes in his life savings and pensions to finance a tour for his band Foregone Conclusion. The good news is that this the best Gervais has been in years – capturing the brilliant comedy/pathos at the heart of The Office and delivering big time both in the laughs and the cringe inducing awfulness of Brent’s socially awkward overdrive.
This isn’t for those who are easily offended or just after some gentle humour – Life On The Road is a comedy-tragic-em-up that will rip your heart out even while you’re spitting popcorn.
This older Brent is a lonelier than ever, his hired bandmates won’t socialise with him or even let him on the expensive tour bus he’s shelled out for; he even has to pay them to have an after show drink with him at one point.
The expected adoring crowds don’t exactly turn up and the record company scouts are more interested in the genuinely talented aspiring rapper Dom Johnson (Doc Brown) who Brent has guest rap on some of his songs in an effort to make them both ethically friendly and youthful.
The excellent Tom ‘Love & Friendship’ Bennett is great as Brent’s one Lavichem office pal and Diane ‘Charlie Brooker’s Weekly Wipe’ Morgan has a fun cameo as a PR tasked with the impossible job of making Brent ‘cool’.
Doc Brown, though, steals all his scenes with looks to camera of such sheer uncomfortableness that I’d love to see him get his own spin-off movie.
Life On The Road takes mid-life desperation and blows the door off it in fine comic style.
You’ll laugh, you might even cry but be warned you might also very well hurt yourself due to the unsafe levels of cringe.

Review: Cringeworthy David Brent brings tragedy to comedy


Matt Adcock reviews David Brent: Life On The Road (15)


The most popular pet name in the UK is Charlie, according to new research into the names we choose for our animals by Pets at Home.
Pets at Home surveyed more than 800,000 pet owners through its My VIP club and has found the top 50 most popular names for each pet type. Whether the pet is a bird, cat, dog, fish, horse, reptile or small animal, Charlie was the clear winner with almost 34,000 of British pet owners choosing this name for their animal friend, topping the list of most common names for birds, cats and horses.
Poppy also proved to be a popular choice for many pets, particularly canines and felines, ranking at number one for dogs and number two for cats. Other common selections include Alfie, Bella, Billy and Molly.
George also ranked highly across all species with almost 10,000 of those taking part choosing this name within the top 50, again regardless of pet type, suggesting the young Prince’s influence may not end with toddler fashion and toys.
The world of entertainment, particularly children’s cartoons, appear to have had an effect on the names owners select. Bird based film Rio saw the film’s title rank in 10th place for birds, while classic cartoon character name Tweety came in at number 32.
Bestselling book A Cat Called Alfie may have inspired cat owners, with Alfie being the eighth most popular name for cats. Winnie the Pooh fans are meanwhile drawn to Tigger, which ranked at 11 in cat names. Demonstrating that classic films can still influence our decisions, Thumper, who appeared in the 1942 film Bambi, is still the seventh most chosen name for rabbits. Nemo, is the second most popular name for the nation’s fish following Goldie in first.
Gavin Hawthorn, Group CRM Director, said: “It’s interesting to see that just as popular culture and famous faces influence what we name our children, likewise, these trends can help the nation’s pet owners select a name for their animals. It seems likely that children being allowed to name their first animal friend forms a big part of the naming process, particularly among the film and TV inspired monikers.
“However, it also seems that books and even the Royal family are also helping Brits to decide on what to call their pet. Meanwhile Charlie and Poppy scored highly across species, suggesting that cute, traditional names will always appeal when it comes to naming our pets.”
Top 10 names for British pets by species
Top 10 names for dogs
1. Poppy
2. Alfie
3. Bella
4. Charlie
5. Molly
6. Max
7. Daisy
8. Bailey
9. Ruby
10. Lola
Top 10 names for cats
1. Charlie
2. Poppy
3. Molly
4. Bella
5. Oscar
6. Daisy
7. Tilly
8. Alfie
9. Millie
10. Smudge
Top 10 names for small animals
1. Daisy
2. Fudge
3. Nibbles
4. Poppy
5. Rosie
6. Charlie
7. Thumper
8. Fluffy
9. George
10. Harry
Top 10 names for reptiles
1. Spike
2. George
3. Rex
4. Charlie
5. Sid
6. Monty
7. Bob
8. Leo
9. Rango
10. Sheldon
Top 10 names for fish
1. Goldie
2. Nemo
3. Bob
4. Bubbles
5. Fishy
6. George
7. Fred
8. Jaws
9. Dave
10. Tom
Top 10 names for horses
1. Charlie
2. Jack
3. Rosie
4. Molly
5. Harry
6. Alfie
7. Billy
8. Poppy
9. Murphy
10. Lady
Top 10 names for birds
1. Charlie
2. Joey
3. Billy
4. Bobby
5. George
6. Blue
7. Alfie
8. Rosie
9. Sky
10. Rio


The most popular pet name in the UK is Charlie, according to new research into the names we choose for our animals by Pets at Home.


Berkhamsted comfortably notched their first away win of the SSML Premier season on Saturday thanks to two fine strikes from Adam Mead at Holmer Green.
They made three changes from the side that went down in midweek at London Colney. Scott Bonner replaced the injured Danny Ryan at centre back, Ashley Lewis made his first start of the season in midfield and Ikem Odeh started at centre forward.
Holmer Green v Berkhamsted. Picture: Ray Canham
Berko headed the first chance wide after a fine cross from Dan Jones. At the other end, James Burrell struck the outside of the post with a shot from a cross, after Dan Weeks was dispossessed receiving a pass from Carl Tasker.
At the lower end Alex Campana beat his man twice and lobbed the keeper but it was cleared at the back post. Mead came forward and struck a 25 yards shot to the right of the post.
An Odeh shot was deflected for a corner as Berko had the majority of the possession. Both sides rattled the metalwork in the closing stages of the goalless first half. A Jones shot struck the cross bar for Berko and Greg Deer clipped the bar at the other end for Green.
There were plenty of chances compared to Berko’s previous matches this season. Tasker saved with his legs at one end and a shot on the turn from Odeh cleared the bar.
Holmer Green v Berkhamsted. Picture: Ray Canham
Michael Green got the only yellow card of the game for bringing down Odeh just outside the penalty box. Mead made the home side pay with a perfectly struck shot from the free kick, that cleared the defensive wall and gave keeper Mopntel Joseph no chance. Weeks came forward and headed wide from a deep cross as Berko had the confidence from getting the opening goal for the first time this season.
There was a flurry of home substitutions before Mead sealed the points with another sweetly struck shot as the ball was played across the front of the penalty area into his path. Ashton Campbell got his international clearance from the USA this week and he looked lively when he came on for Berko, with Joseph saving his shot after good work by Mead and Campana. Mead tried a 40 yard free kick for his hat trick but this time the wall did its job. At the other end Green hit the bar and tasker tipped the rebound over to earn Berko’s first clean sheet since April,
The home side put several chances at the back post wide in the closing stages with Deer wasting the best of them.
Next up
Holmer Green v Berkhamsted. Picture: Ray Canham
Berko: Tasker, Mead, Weeks, Baldry, Bonner, Rodrigoe, Jones (Carter), Hawes, Campana, Lewis (Carbery) Odeh(Campbell). Unused subs, Canham & Deadman.


Berkhamsted comfortably notched their first away win of the SSML Premier season on Saturday thanks to two fine strikes from Adam Mead at Holmer Green.


One of the most recogniseable voices in British music can be heard when she brings a concert to Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre next month.
Singer Jane McDonald takes her new show across the country and visits the Waterside on Thursday September 8 at 7.30pm.
The show is entitled Making Memories and is packed full of world class songs and arrangements, featuring an extravaganza of musicians and singers.
After receiving five star reviews for her performance as Grizabella in CATS, Jane will introduce Memory into her concert act, as well as including full versions of some of her own songs, including The Hand That Leads Me, written as a tribute to her mother.
Expect new amazing medleys, old fan favourites and some exciting additions guaranteeing you will be on your feet time after time.
By popular demand, Jane is finally introducing full versions of some of her own songs including Some You Win (from her platinum Number One album) and her most recent composition, The Singer Of Your Song, which was written for her fans.
She rose to fame with her appearances in the 1998 series The Cruise and was also a regular panelist on the ITV series Loose Women between 2004 and 2014.
Tickets to the concert are available from £31. For more information or to book in advance, call the box office on 0844 871 7607, or go online at www.atgtickets.com/ aylesbury.

Jane McDonald creates memories at Aylesbury


One of the most recogniseable voices in British music can be heard when she brings a concert to Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre next month.


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Young people across Herts are being offered a meningitis vaccination so that they are protected against the disease.


It could cost airline passengers £25 for making a complaint, following the introduction of new aviation rules.
Passengers traveling with British Airways, easyJet and Thomas Cook will be charged £25 if any claim they make is unsuccessful, as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will no longer mediate between customers and airlines.
Previously, the CAA would act as the ‘middleman’ in negotiations between customer and airlines in disputes regarding flight delays and cancellations or missing or damaged luggage.
British Airways, along with easyJet and Thomas Cook, have signed up to the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR), which charges customers a £25 fee for unsuccessful claims for compensation.
However, passengers with other airlines, including Flybe and Ryanair will be able to pursue complaints without fear of financial loss as these airlines have signed up with the Retail Ombudsman which does not charge customers to use the service.
Also, Eurowings and Lufthansa will use German company Söp, which similarly does not charge a fee.

BA and easyJet passengers could pay £25 charge for flight delay complaints


It could cost airline passengers £25 for making a complaint, following the introduction of new aviation rules.


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 Berkhamsted’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.


Police are searching for a teenage boy who escaped from police custody on Bank Holiday Monday.
Michael Casey, 17, from Waveney, Hemel Hempstead, was arrested the previous day on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and driving while qualified following an incident in Belswains Lane, Hemel at around 4.50pm.
He was taken to Hatfield Police Station for questioning and escaped custody at around 2.30pm on Monday.
Searches are being carried out to trace him with the assistance of dog units and the helicopter, and anyone who sees him or who knows of his whereabouts is asked not to approach him but to contact police immediately. It may be he has found access to a vehicle.
When he was last seen he was wearing a grey tracksuit and bright yellow sock. He was not wearing shoes.
The circumstances around how he managed to escape are currently being investigated.
Anyone with any information should contact Herts Police on 101.

Teenager escaped from police custody after car theft arrest


Police are searching for a teenage boy who escaped from police custody on Bank Holiday Monday.


Singer songwriter James Walsh is preparing for his first visit to Berkhamsted next month, where he will perform fresh material and old Starsailor favourites.
The former Starsailor frontman, who hails from Wigan, is headlining family-friendly festival Berkofest at Berkhamsted Cricket Club on Saturday, September 10, and he says it ‘should be a good one’.
The 36-year-old, who has sold more than three million albums, said: “The closest I’ve got to Berkhamsted is Luton, when I did an interview on BBC 3 Counties Radio.
“I met Charlie [Hussey, Berkofest organiser] then and it was great to hear the passion he has for it. I’m looking forward to playing in Berkhamsted, it should be a good one.”
James is perhaps best known for being one quarter of post-Britpop band Starsailor, but he released his first solo album in 2009 and has been touring on his own too.
But Starsailor fans will be pleased to know he will be playing some of their hits at Berkofest, as well as some fresh material.
The dad-of-two, who lives with wife Lisa and children Niamh, 14, and eight-year-old Cillian, said: “I think it’s important to strike a balance.
“I want to show people what I’m working on now, but I don’t want to gloss over my past. I want to say, I’m still part of that, but I’m also doing this.”
The artist, who first played the piano aged 12 and started writing his own songs at 14, cites Tim Buckley, Jeff Buckley, Oasis and Blur as just some of his early influences.
And even though he’s performed all over the world, the musician admits he still gets nervous before gigs.
He said: “It’s not a bad nervous, more like adrenalin. I always find gigs exciting and intriguing, because you never know what the audience is going to be like.”
Buy tickets to see James play at www.berkofest.com

Berkofest performance will be plain sailing


Singer songwriter James Walsh is preparing for his first visit to Berkhamsted next month, where he will perform fresh material and old Starsailor favourites.


UK motorists have been hit by a near-20 per cent rise in insurance costs in the last year, new figures show.
The average driver now pays £715 a year for fully comprehensive cover, up 19 per cent on the same time last year.
The figures were revealed by the Confused.com car insurance price index, which tracks quarterly and annual trends.
After dropping for several years from a high of £843 in 2011, insurance costs have been rising since the start of 2015. The latest figures, for the period from April to June 2016 show that costs have risen by 6 per cent since the start of the year and drivers are paying an average of £115 more for their insurance than they were in the same period last year.
Northern Irish drivers have been worst hit by the latest rises, seeing their premiums climb 25 per cent year-on-year. They now face an average premium of £863.
Also feeling the impact badly are motorists in parts of Scotland - the Highlands and Islands saw rises of 24 per cent and drivers in the Hebrides were hit with a staggering 42 per cent annual increase.
Conversely, Orkney’s capital - Kirkwall - was one of only two places to see a drop in costs, with a quarterly fall of four per cent. Hereford, in the West Midlands, was the only other place to see a fall in quarterly premiums - down two per cent on the first three months of the year.
While younger drivers might face the highest premiums overall, they have actually escaped the worst of the rises. Drivers aged 17 saw an annual rise of just eight per cent - the lowest of any age bracket - but still face average premiums of £2,013. A the opposite end, 61-year-old drivers saw a 24 per cent rise - the highest of any age group - but still only pay £418 a year.
And the gender gap persists, with male drivers facing annual rises of 21 per cent in comparison with the 18 per cent faced by women. This continued difference means the gap between the sexes is growing as men pay an average of £92 a year more - up from £27 in 2013.
Confused’s motoring editor, Amanda Stretton, said: “We’ve not seen price rises of this magnitude for five years - a 19 per cent annual increase is substantial to say the least. And these price rises are being felt across the board, for drivers of all ages and genders, across all UK regions.
“If prices continues to rise at the rate we’ve been seeing, we could be facing the possibility of average comprehensive premiums reaching a high not seen since 2011. This, combined with rising fuel prices and increased motoring costs across the board, could result in a sizeable dent in drivers’ pockets.”

Car insurance costs soar nearly 20 per cent in 12 months


UK motorists have been hit by a near-20 per cent rise in insurance costs in the last year, new figures show.


A collection of glass ornaments were stolen from a grave last week.
The theft of six glass butterfly ornaments, similar to the one pictured, took place between 2.45pm on Sunday, August 21, and 9.30pm on Thursday, August 25 at St Albans Cemetary in Hatfield Road.
PC Paresha Maniar said: “The victim discovered the butterflies had been taken when she visited her daughter’s grave and this has understandably left her extremely upset.
“I am appealing for anyone who may have seen the ornaments being stolen or anyone who may know who is responsible to get in touch.”
Anyone with information about this theft is asked to contact PC Maniar via the Herts Police non‐emergency number 101, quoting crime reference F1/16/3228.
Alternatively contact the independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111, or through their anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers‐uk.org No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court.


A collection of glass ornaments were stolen from a grave last week.


NHS bosses are encouraging people to think ahead of the bank holiday weekend.
Pharmacists can offer advice on common illnesses and the best medicines to treat them, while also saving you time in the waiting room.
Di Pegg, head of primary care for NHS England in Herts Valley, said:“Your local pharmacy can help you with more than you might think. Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals, who can offer expert, confidential advice and treatment for many minor health problems.
“Remember to order any medication you need in plenty of time so that you have a good supply during the bank holidays.”
Opening times on Bank Holiday Monday:
Boots Pharmacy, High Street, Berkhamsted, 10am-4pm;
Lloyds Pharmacy, The Queens Square, Adeyfield, Hemel Hempstead, 10am-4pm;
Sainsburys Pharmacy, London Road, Apsley Mills, Hemel Hempstead 9am-7pm;
Speedwell Pharmacy, London Road, Apsley, Hemel Hempstead, 11am-6pm;
Tesco Pharmacy, Jarman Way, Hemel Hempstead, 11am-4pm.


NHS bosses are encouraging people to think ahead of the bank holiday weekend.


A large Bank Holiday Monday crowd saw Kings Langley fail to break this season’s home hoodoo when they went down by the odd goal in three to local rivals Chesham United.
Although Kings made four changes, there were remarkable similarities to the contest two days earlier, as United got off to a quick-fire start, with Xavi Comas palming a shot from Dave Pearce round the post in the first minute and Mat Mitchel-King firing over from the resultant corner.
Benji Crilley caused some alarm with a solo run and shot, but Kings started to find the room to play their brand off interpassing football and gradually gained in confidence.
That was to change on 19 minutes when another corner proved their undoing, the kick from Pearce being headed on by Darren Purse to Adam Martin, who planted his header wide of Comas.
Within three minutes, the home defence appealed in vain for offside as Brad Wadkins ran through the middle and calmly lobbed the keeper.
Kings were in disarray and struggling against a powerful defence, with too many promising midfield moves breaking down with a loose final pass and it was not until the 37th minute that Oran Swales got a shot on target for the home side.
The break saw the introduction of Dean Hitchcock inmidfield and Stevie Ward down the right and a difference in attitude gradually became apparent.
Connor Toomey had a clear chance when put through by his brother, Lewis, but Ashlee Jones did well to block the shot with his legs.
United’s attacks became more rare and although Kings were breaking well down the wings, Lewis Toomey was finding it tough going in the middle as he laboured manfully against the powerful presence of Purse, Martin and Mitchel-King.
The striker’s perseverance paid off though when he took a cross from Emmanuel Folarin to turn on a sixpence and fire an unstoppable shot past Jones. With six minutes of normal time to go, there was once again the possibility of an unlikely comeback, but the experience of United’s defence was able to dispel that illusion, condemning Kings to a barren Bank Holiday weekend.
Kings host Sporting Bengal United in the FA Cup First Qualifying Round on Saturday.

Kings Langley record double Bank Holiday home defeats


A large Bank Holiday Monday crowd saw Kings Langley fail to break this season’s home hoodoo when they went down by the odd goal in three to local rivals Chesham United.


Leverstock Green came off second best to Cockfosters on Saturday, losing their SSML Premier clash 2-1.
Levy were missing Shane Wood, Brima Johnson and George Biggadike at the back as a couple of slips let their visitors through to score from corners.
However the Green side produced little at the other end to threaten the Cockfosters keeper, their onyl goal coming deep into injury time.
Two new signings from Northwood, defender Rowland Smith and forward Issouf Coulibally made their debuts.
There was little in the way of chances at either end before Cockfosters took the lead in the 22nd minute when Carl Resch clipped a low shot through a crowd of players into the net from a corner.
Leverstock’s best moment came in the last minute when Zak Howells pulled the ball back for Curtis Donaldson, but he shot over the bar.
The visitors had another great chance to double their lead with little more than a minute played in the second half as Jerry Maja ran onto a pass from Cameron Ferguson and took the ball past Jahn, but his shot was blocked by a defender.
At the other end six minutes later Lacey produced a dangerous ball across goal which had to be cleared by Melford-Rowe, and Donaldson floated a good free kick to the far post but Lewis Bowers headed over.
Cockfosters finally added their second midway through the second half with a corner dropping down to Maja, who again shot through a crowd of players with little challenge.
For the last five minutes Cockfosters played with ten men, having suffered an injury after using all three subs, but they were denied a third goal in the last minute as Jahn pulled off a great save to deny Ramone Cassidy-Sinclair.
Deep into stoppage time Leverstock pulled a goal back as Lewis Bowers hit a shot which went in off the far post.
On Saturday Leverstock travel to Edgware Town in the SSML Premier.


Leverstock Green came off second best to Cockfosters on Saturday, losing their SSML Premier clash 2-1.


The choice of leaf-based beverages on offer has mushroomed in recent years, from builder’s tea or nothing, to every flavour from peppermint to rhubarb & ginger.
Now, a third generation of teas is brewing. This will concentrate less on exotic new flavours and more on health benefits as producers look to capitalise on a market that remains huge – with 165 million cups of tea consumed in Britain every day – but faces growing competition from coffee.
Tetley has looked into the tea leaves and predicts we are in for a range of “remedy” teas – enriched with medicines, from painkillers to antibiotics – some of which may even be offered as cures for hangovers and remedies for tiredness, the report suggested.
We can also expect tea to be consumed through an array of alternative “delivery mechanisms” such as tablets, jellies, sprays and sorbets, according to a new report Tetley has done with so-called futurologist consultancy Future Foundation.
“Britain’s love affair with tea is enduring. The way we consume tea has gradually evolved since the 17th century, but now we are entering a period of rapid change,” said Laurent Sagarra, head of product innovation at Tetley.
“The way we consume tea has gradually evolved since the 17th Century, but we are now entering a period of rapid change,” she said.
“We’re constantly innovating, grading, blending and tasting and now’s the time to see what’s next for the iconic British cuppa,” she added.
The proliferation of teas will give High street coffee shops a run for their month, the report suggests, with “tea-total” outlets offering a range of exotic tastes and flavours.
Nick Chiarelli, director of the Future Foundation, said: “Our report predicts that exciting and satisfying new tea formats will develop, and that tea will evolve to deliver personalised health benefits.”

New generation of teas could cure hangovers, report suggests


The choice of leaf-based beverages on offer has mushroomed in recent years, from builder’s tea or nothing, to every flavour from peppermint to rhubarb & ginger.


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Additional support for Hertfordshire’s social workers


Newly-qualified social workers are being offered additional support by a countywide scheme.


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Shoppers at the Marlowes Shopping Centre are being invited to have their favourite image of Hemel transformed into stunning graffiti art.


Tring Athletic earned a decent point in a 1-1 draw at home to Welwyn Garden City on Saturday.
Although City probably had more possession during the game, and look to have high expectations in the SSML Premier this season, they had few clear chances, with Athletic defending well against a well organised side and then creating a number of chances themselves.
The home side started the game with a first team debut for striker Adam Scotcher and without the injured Dan Steadman.
The first few minutes saw City on the front foot, winning a free kick and two corners but it was Athletic who nearly opened the scoring. Following a back pass visiting keeper Joe Croft had his clearance charged down by Chris Vardy with the ball hitting the post before being hacked away.
There was little flow to the game although the visitors were seeing more of the ball.
In the 31st minute City opened the scoring. A free kick was floated into the area eluding everyone except Sam Doolan at the far post who easily planted the ball into the net.
Athletic looked to improve at the start of the second half and equalised just nine minutes into the restart. The ball was played to Adam Scotcher who ran into the penalty area before being brought down for a blatant penalty. Skipper Sam Joliffe stepped up and scored with confidence.
The visitors came right back putting Athletic’s defence under pressure, keeper Jack Hopwood pulled off a great save following Josh Brontis’ powerful long shot. Athletics Chris Vardy was played through down the left but City managed to clear the danger.
Athletic then had their best spell of the game. First Luke Dunstan saw his superb header just clear the goal and then Chris Vardy’s shot was blocked by some desperate defending.
Tring host Wembley in the SSML Premier on Saturday before visiting Leighton in the Premier Division Cup on Tuesday.

Athletic fight back to earn point against Garden City


Tring Athletic earned a decent point in a 1-1 draw at home to Welwyn Garden City on Saturday.


A pastor and a Rolls-Royce aerospace engineer are among the 12 hopefuls competing to win the 2016 series of The Great British Bake Off.
The amateur bakers, competing to follow in the footsteps of last year’s champion Nadiya Hussain, will again seek the approval of judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.
However the seventh series could be the last on the BBC. Its three-year deal with producers Love Productions expires at the end of this run and ITV is bidding to poach the format.
Ms Berry, 81, hinted at tensions behind the scenes between the new batch of contestants donning their aprons. She said: “They know the standard that it is, which is now pretty high. And I think they were slower to bond this year than they were in the past.”
The bakers include Andrew, 25, originally from Northern Ireland, he now lives in Derby and works as an aerospace engineer for Rolls-Royce. A Cambridge University graduate, Andrew has set his heart on designing a baguette concorde.
The oldest contestant in this year’s lineup will be Lee, a 67-year-old who has worked in various pastoral ministries for the past 30 years – most recently as the pastor of his local church in Bolton. A former builder, he had a complete change of direction in the mid 1980s, when he turned to theology and took up baking.
The youngest baker is Michael, a 20-year-old from London who is studying politics and economics in Durham. He enjoys making “big grand cakes” and making Greek pastries inspired by his Cypriot heritage.
Teaching Assistant, Benjamina, 23, who started baking aged 14 just for fun, recently graduated with a 1st in Economics & lives in south London.
The contestants also include 66-year-old former primary school head teacher Val, and 31-year-old secondary school PE teacher Candice. Mother of two Kate, 37, is a farmer’s daughter from Norfolk, is a qualified nurse and works on an acute respiratory ward. Candice, 31, from Bedfordshire, was taught to bake by her beloved Nan, and strives to emulate her bakes aiming to be “even half the lady she was.”
Hollywood said Nadiya’s success – she is judging a junior version of the series and is presenting a documentary on her culinary inspirations – had raised the bar for this year’s batch.
“Nadiya went to a whole new level, and because of that I think it put the pressure on them more, and I think we felt that in the tents as well,” the judge said. “But actually they came out tops.
They started quite nervously but once they settled down they got into it. Then the baking started to flow and the standard got really really good.”
The Great British Bake Off launches on August 24 on BBC One at 8pm.

Great British Bake Off contestants: Rolls-Royce engineer and pastor join 2016 lineup


A pastor and a Rolls-Royce aerospace engineer are among the 12 hopefuls competing to win the 2016 series of The Great British Bake Off.


Motorists now change their car more often than they switch their mattress or even their mobile phone, suggests new research.
The length of time motorists keep a car has plummeted from around five years to two years or less, reveal latest figures.
The data produced by automotive experts, cap hpi, shows that some car makers now see average returns of vehicles in 24 months, and there is evidence of a growing number of 18-month leases in the market.
Mattresses should be changed every seven or eight years to ensure a good and healthy night’s sleep, according to chiropractors, while mobile phone contracts are on average between 18 and 24 months.
Expert say car manufacturers are managing volumes in the used market by varying contract lengths by model and remarketing channels.
Philip Nothard, retail and consumer specialist at cap hpi, said: “What we are seeing is the ‘iphonification’ of the car industry as consumers increasingly pay to drive rather than pay to own their vehicles.
“It’s the same model as the mobile phone industry where people are comfortable paying a monthly fee - only they are now doing this with their vehicles as well as their mobiles.”
He said the growth of personal contract purchase (PCP) and other finance options is having a “profound” effect on the car industry.
Personal Contract Hire (PCH) is also increasing, as motorists increasingly look towards usership rather than ownership.
Around four out five new car sales (80 per cent) are now on finance, according to estimates by cap hpi.
Mr Nothard added: “Not so long ago it was fairly common for motorists to have their cars for a minimum of five years or longer, but that has now changed dramatically and dropped to just two years for millions of motorists.
“After buying a house, the car was usually the biggest outlay for most consumers but now they are far more likely to change their car more often than their mattress.
“Consumer demand remains strong in the used car market and there are lots of used bargains waiting to be snapped up.
“As PCP becomes more popular and accessible in the used market, motor dealers expect its use to double in the future so we’re going to see people changing their cars with increasing regularity.”

Motorists change their car more often than their mobile phone


Motorists now change their car more often than they switch their mattress or even their mobile phone, suggests new research.


In this job I am frequently sent over exuberant press releases extolling the virtues and talents of various musicians.
So when yet another landed in my inbox telling me about an award winning Elvis impersonator called Ben Portsmouth I didn’t rush to read it, writes Heather Jan Brunt.
That is, until my eye caught the image attached to the press release (see right). The guy resembled Presley to such a degree I was convinced the press officer had actually attached an image of the real Elvis by mistake.
Then I noted a link to a live performance given by Ben at the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Memphis in 2012. Surely a guy who looked this much like the king of rock and roll couldn’t also actually sound like him and pull off a realistic live performance?
Wrong. The link was so impressive, I’m off to see Ben at the Watford Colosseum when he performs there at 8pm on Friday (September 2). If you’re lucky there might be a few tickets left, so get onto the box office right now, 01923 571102 if you are an Elvis fan.
There was only one Elvis, but tribute artists are now the only way to experience a live stage concert, and Ben is seriously close in terms of his looks, voice and on stage charisma. His father was an avid Elvis fan and Ben grew up on a diet of Presley songs. His triple octave vocal range and perfect pitch allows him to hit the most challenging high notes, and his guitar virtuosity enables him to authentically recreate Elvis’s 1968 comeback concert. In 2006 he was voted best Elvis at a prestigious international festival in Wales wear he was the youngest competitor, didn’t need a wig and was wearing the most authentic outfits flown in from America. If you miss out on his date at Watford, take a trip to High Wycombe to see him at The Swan on Saturday September 24. Box office 01494 512000.

Award winning Elvis tribute artist at Watford Colosseum and Wycombe Swan


In this job I am frequently sent over exuberant press releases extolling the virtues and talents of various musicians.


The internet is 25 years old today and we take a look at 25 things the world wide web changed forever.
Happy 25th birthday to the internet! In August 1991, British computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee published the first web page.
And on August 23, 1991, he gave the public access to it.
Handily, the page told readers how they could set up their own website, whatever the heck a website was.
You can view a version of that original web page here. Compared to what we have now obviously it is very basic but will go down in history as one of the most important developments of all time.

The World Wide Web is 25 today: Here’s 25 things the internet changed forever


The internet is 25 years old today and we take a look at 25 things the world wide web changed forever.


Teenager Jonathan Lacey scored a hat-trick at Leverstock Green thrashed St Margaretsbury 5-1 at Pancake Lane on Saturday.
His first half trio ensured Levy got their first league points and goals in the SSML Premier.
Delighted Green manager Paul Hunt said: “Everything just clicked today, and we were unstoppable in the first half.”
Green should have been in front in the third minute, Lewis Bowers putting the ball over the bar from close range after Brima Johnson’s shot had been blocked on the line.
Finally in the 10th minute Ben Butler played a sideways ball to Lacey, who drilled home a shot from the edge of the box to give Leverstock a deserved lead.
Liam Jahn had little to do in the first half, but in the 12th minute had to dive to keep out a shot from George Beattie which was heading for the bottom corner.
In the 16th minute Leverstock doubled their lead as Curtis Donaldson threaded a great pass through to Aaron Lewis, who neatly slotted home his first for the club.
Levy were 3-0 up midway through the half. Lewis was the creator this time, as he played a square ball across the box which Corderoy failed to cut out, and Lacey pounced to smash home his second.
In the 38th minute Donaldson’s corner was headed away, but only as far as Lacey, who watched the ball come down and connected with the sweetest of volleys from 20 yards which flew into the top corner to complete his hat-trick.
Leverstock continued to push forward in the second half. In the 48th minute Lewis was clean through but Corderoy saved with his boot. Ten minutes later a shot from Donaldson was deflected onto the bar after a Lacey corner hadn’t been cleared.
The visitors pulled a goal back in the 68th minute when Courtney Clay hit a shot from the edge of the box through a crowd of players.
Two minutes later Donaldson hit a shot into the side netting, and on 74 minutes Donaldson ran onto a long kick from Jahn but hit his shot across goal and wide.
Finally on 77 minutes Donaldson got onto the scoresheet as Ashley Addison put him through to slot home Leverstock’s fifth.
Two minutes from time a shot from Shaun Owens was deflected wide, and from the resulting corner Lewis Bowers was denied a deserved goal as his header was brilliantly saved by Corderoy.
Despite not scoring, Bowers was named Man of the Match for his performance in leading the line, winning countless headers and flicks and working tirelessly throughout the game.
Next up is the visit of Cockfosters to Pancake Lane for a league match next Saturday.

Lacey hat-trick as Levy Green smash five


Teenager Jonathan Lacey scored a hat-trick at Leverstock Green thrashed St Margaretsbury 5-1 at Pancake Lane on Saturday.


Rush Judo competition squad were back in action in Thetford at the weekend at the BJA Judo East England ranking event.
It was a long but rewarding day with some very tough categories particularly so as this was the last chance for judoka to get ranking points of the season.
The calendar ended with all of the competition pre cadets / cadets ranked in the top 10 of the country.
Gold went to Jessica Rush and Emily Niven with bronze for Haydn Williams, Hannah Niven, Charlie Bennett and Lewis Fryer.
Coaches Laurie Rush and Pete Brent were pleased with the continued great results from the squad members, saying: “The whole squad medalled with lots of big ippons on show. Keep up the hard work and effort going and the rewards will follow!”
Rush Judo is an inclusive club which caters for beginners though to competition players and specialise in teaching people with learning disabilities in partnership with Dacorum Mencap. Contact Laurie Rush on 07949 609569 for more information or visit www.rushjudo.co.uk.

Rush Judo end competition season on a high


Rush Judo competition squad were back in action in Thetford at the weekend at the BJA Judo East England ranking event.


Berkhamsted came from behind to hit five on the road at Cockfosters on Saturday and move into second place in the SSML Premier Division.
From the off Berko were on the front foot and quickly adapted to the dry bumpy pitch.
It was very much against the run of play that the visitors’ defence froze and Cockfosters’ Ioannis Varouxakis stabbed home the loose ball to go in front after 15 minutes.
The visitors peppered the home goal with shots. Tautis Poniskaitis made the first of several fine saves to tip a Campbell shot round the post.
A Dan Jones shot was charged down and Dan Weeks headed over as he got under a deep cross from Alex Campana.
The equaliser finally arrived when the ball was laid into the path of Jones who got his first goal for the club with a rising shot from 20 yards out.
A fine reflex save from a point blank shot from Campbell kept the scores level after Campana won a free kick which Adam Mead took.
Mead is Berko’s top scorer this season and he put the Comrades in front as the interval was approaching. His low free kick from 20 yards went straight through the defensive wall.
In the second half Tom Carter came on for the injured Ikem Odeh. Campbell headed one of his crosses into the keeper’s arms while Jones tried to walk the ball home as chances kept coming.
The third goal was a rising shot from 20 yards by Lewis Rodrigoe. More goals looked likely with Carter shooting weekly when put through by Campana and soon after he ran clear but his lob jut cleared the bar.
Carl Tasker had to make a good save and grabbed the rebound at a forward’s feet on a rare Cockfosters breakaway. Poniskaitis did well to save from Campbell after a corner.
Carter laid the fourth goal on a plate for Campbell and the roles were reversed with Campbell dribbling through and setting up Carter to net the fifth.
After using all three substitutes, Steve Hawes had to come off injured but even a man light Berko were able to attack and Campbell struck the post after George Carbery played him in.
It was a good all round passing display from Berkhamsted, who capitalised on Cockfosters missing many regulars.
This Saturday Berko go to play third placed Hertford Town, who are pulling in good crowds in a fixture that may have an early bearing on where the title goes.
On Tuesday Berko entertain St Margaretsbury in a Premier Division Cup tie.


Berkhamsted came from behind to hit five on the road at Cockfosters on Saturday and move into second place in the SSML Premier Division.


Max Whitlock’s performances at Rio stunned the gymnastics and sporting world.
The lad who slipped on his first gym shoes in Hemel at the age of seven has now reached the pinnacle of the sport with two gold medals at the 2016 Olympics.
British House at Rio Olympics. PNL-160817-154316002
But amid the relentless glare of the world’s media in Brazil he was happy to spend time chatting on the phone to his local paper.
“To be honest it’s not really sunk in yet, it feels kind of surreal. I can’t really explain what it feels like,” Max told the Gazette this week.
“I’ve done a bit of celebrating but we wait till everyone’s finished for some proper celebrations. We have had some more performances to watch and the results have been brilliant.
“My parents just left the other day, so I managed to spend some time with them too.”
Max Whitlock in Rio.
It has been an unforgettable fortnight for the Hemel gymnast.
Competing first as part of the GB mens team who were narrowly edged out of a medal, he then took bronze in the all-around competition – the first British man to medal in it for 108 years.
But more was to come. In less than two hours of a super Sunday the 23-year-old won the floor competition and then the pommel horse. It sent records tumbling – Max becoming the first GB gymnast to win Olympic gold, and with five medals across two Games he is now the country’s most decorated gymnast in history.
Max said he went into Sunday’s competitions with hopes, but not expectations, of success: “You never really know how you are going to do. You just go in there and do your job, do what you have been training to do.
Max Whitlock in earlier competition.
“You don’t go in expecting to win – you can hope to but you can’t expect to.
“I wasn’t really watching any of the other competitors. When Scott (Hann, his coach) turned to me and said ‘You’re Olympic champion’ it was unbelievable. I had no idea! It was very emotional.”
But there was no opportunity for immediate celebrations as just minutes later he had to compete on the pommel horse, the apparatus he was already a world champion in. And an excellent routine saw him take double gold.
Max was full of praise for his coach who has worked alongside him at South Essex Gymnastics Club: “Scott has been unbelievable, these medals are his as much as mine.
Max Whitlock, left, with coach Scott Hann PNL-151031-235858002
“He takes all the stress off me, gets me in the right mindset. These last four years have been a massive learning curve.
“We stepped out of London 2012 and I wanted to prove myself as an all-rounder and I’ve done that. I feel I’ve completed that target now.”
Max’s gymnastic journey began back in Hemel at the age of seven: “I was initially in a swimming club and it was through that where I first got involved in the gym.
“And at first I liked it and wanted to do more of it, I got into the (world class) school when I was nine, so people saw potential in me from that age.”
So was he starry-eyed about Olympic glory from an early age? “No, for me it wasn’t about thinking of going to the Olympics, I was going to do something I enjoyed and that I was happy doing.”
His first major success came with three medals at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and they haven’t stopped coming for the former Longdean School student with European and World Championship medals. At London 2012 he earned two bronze medals, on the pommel horse and in the team competition.
British House at Rio Olympics. PNL-160817-154408002
2015 was a difficult year as Max had to fight glandular fever. He bounced back though to become the first British man to win a World Gymnastics title, on the pommel horse at Glasgow.
His success has been recognised back in Hemel – in 2015 a new pub was named the Pommel Horse in honour of his achievements. “It’s great,” laughed Max. “I’ve been in there, they’ve got pictures on the wall, and it’s really nice.”
Max said he had spent much of his time since Sunday relaxing in the GB House – the headquarters of Team GB at the Rio Olympics
He said: “The place is amazing. It’s a place for us to relax after the competition, the whole gymnastics team are here now and it’s a nice place to come and chill out.
“When you’re competing away from home it’s never as glamorous as it appears. DFS (who created the limited edition Britannia sofa range especially for British House) wanted to make it a home from home and it’s amazing.”
Now the competition was over, Max said: “I want to try to enjoy the place and see a bit of Rio, getting out is not something we normally get to do. So I have five more days here and I’m really looking forward to enjoying it.”
But once that’s done it’s time to fly back to Britain. “I can’t wait to get back home, and be back in Hemel. The whole journey has been unbelievable and I can’t wait to get back and start celebrating.
“I’m a Hemel boy at heart.
“I’m just looking forward to having time with family and friends. I haven’t seen Leah (his fiancee) for over a month, so I want to get time with my family, get back to the gym club. I’m looking forward to getting back into home life again.”
And Max know’s he’s still got lots more to give: “I’m trying to enjoy this first and let it sink in. It’s proving a difficult job! After Rio I will take some time off, and then look forward. There’s a lot I still want to achieve.”
Max Whitlock is currently one of the official Team GB ambassadors for leading UK sofa retailer DFS.

Olympic hero Max Whitlock: a Hemel boy at heart


Max Whitlock’s performances at Rio stunned the gymnastics and sporting world.


Young golfer Hannah Screen shone in tough conditions to win the Scottish Girls’ U16 Open championship at Aberdour Golf Club – and lead an English one-two-three.
The 16 year-old from Berkhamsted Golf Club led the field after the first day, shooting a one-over par 68, which was commendable given the persistent rain and strong wind.
Her three-shot lead was key going into day two, when gusts were touching 40 mph and there was more rain for the later starters.
Screen shot a 74 in her second round, not the lowest of the day, but her aggregate 142 earned her the St Leonards Cup & Silver Gilt Medal.
She said: “It feels surreal I’m ecstatic. It’s been a tough few days but I really battled hard.
“I thought I was up there with the lowest handicappers but I’ve been off for exams and injuries and so I was hoping for the best and gave it my best shot.
“The par was low for the length of the course and with the wind and rain, it was quite challenging but I loved that.
“Three years ago, I watched club colleague Alice Hewson win this trophy which was lovely, and I now get to follow her and bring it home to the club. It’s such a good feeling.”
England’s Natasha Slater from Furness Golf Club and Roehampton’s Annabell Fuller finished four shots behind having each scored 73 in both rounds, but Slater was awarded the silver medal as she had a better last nine.
Screen, Slater and Fuller are all members of England Golf squads.
Aberdour’s 18 hole parkland golf course has hosted many events over the years including the Scottish Under 14 Championship and the LGU Ladies’ Coronation Foursomes Area Final.
The Fife course has breathtaking views over the River Forth across to Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat.

Hannah battles the elements to win Scottish Girl’s Open


Young golfer Hannah Screen shone in tough conditions to win the Scottish Girls’ U16 Open championship at Aberdour Golf Club – and lead an English one-two-three.


Tring Athletic came from two goals behind to secure a memorable 3-2 derby victory over Leighton Town on Saturday.
A mere 11 miles separates the clubs but despite their close proximity this was the first competitive encounter between them, taking place in the SSML Premier.
With just over half an hour played Leighton Town must have been enjoying their first taste of the Grass Roots Stadium, having scored two goals without reply to put them in a dominant position and well on their way to their first win of the season.
But the visitors were in for a shock in the 20 minute period either side of half time as Athletic mounted a terrific fight back to turn the deficit into a 3-2 lead and take control of the game.
Athletic should have added to their tally in the second half, spurning some very good chances, but they still had enough in the tank to secure victory.
Athletic included new signing George Brinkman in their line-up and the former Barton Rovers player settled superbly into midfield and will be an asset to the team.
After their encouraging performance the previous Saturday against league leaders London Colney the Athletic supporters must have hoped for more of the same but it was the visitors who looked the better side in the early stages.
Leighton Captain Reece Williams produced the first shot at goal after only 52 seconds and a few minutes later Mitchell Hamilton got his head to a fine free kick that fortunately for Athletic went straight into the hands of their Keeper Jack Hopwood.
Athletic did respond with a shot from Chris Vardy that went wide of the far post but generally the visitors were looking the more dangerous.
In the 16th minute Leighton were rewarded for their positive start when their nippy winger Victor Osuba sped down the left and pulled the ball intelligently for Jordan Davis who converted the chance with a cool finish. A few minutes later the visitors should have doubled their lead following a cross from the right but somehow the Athletic defence managed to clear the danger.
Ryan Sturges had the chance to reduce the deficit when he latched onto a through ball but his lob over the keeper drifted wide of the empty net. Leighton centre forward Matt Bateman forced a good save out of Jack Hopwood but the home keeper could do nothing to prevent the same player firing a shot past him in the 28th minute for the second.
Athletic were still struggling to find their form but in the 37th minute they produced a move of some quality to give themselves a life line, with George Brinkman and Jack Seaton setting up Ryan Sturges who struck a superb volley past the keeper.
With their tails up Athletic went in search of an equaliser and Jack Seaton was again involved sending over a great cross that picked out Dave O’Connor who turned on a sixpence and smashed home the equaliser four minutes before half time.
Worse was to follow for Leighton 10 minutes into the second half when a shot from George Brinkman fell to Chris Vardy who calmly slotted the ball home.
Within less than 20 minutes the game had turned on its head with Athletic now bossing things and they should have added to their lead with Ryan Sturges and Sam Joliffe both missing great opportunities.
Not much was seen of the Leighton attack after the break but midway through the half Jordan Davis did test Jack Hopwood with a good shot. Dave O’Connor forced the visitors’ keeper into a fine diving save but with the clock ticking down and with Athletic holding a slender one goal lead the visitors did step up their game during the last 10 minutes.
Jack Hopwood was called into action to push away shots from Davis and Kai Gardner and there were some anxious moments for the home supports as the visitors won some last minute corners but their team were able to hold on and claim all three points which pushed them up to sixth in the table.
Athletic have another tough league match next Saturday when they face highly fancied Welwyn Garden City at the Grass Roots Stadium.
Tring Athletic: 1 Jack Hopwood 2 Jack Seaton 3 Chris Mason (12 Paul Jeffrey 69) 4 Luke Dunstan 5 Dan Steadman (Capt) 6 Lessa Boka 7 Ryan Sturges (16 Joe Naylor 86) 8 Sam Joliffe 9 Chris Vardy 10 David O’Connor 11 Gordon Brinkman (15 Kane Axton 76). Subs not used: 14 Lanrewajh Ladipo 17 Stuart Stedman.
Leighton Town: 1 Jack Sillitoe 2 Tom Roberts 3 Louis Norton 4 Craig Maisiri 5 Jack Elliot 6 Reece Williams (Capt) (14 Kai Gardner 87) 7 Matt Hewitt (12 Omololu Onabolu 72) 8 Mitchell Hamilton (15 James Towell 76) 9 Matt Bateman 10 Victor Osobu 11 Jordan Davis. Subs not used: 16 Craig McKay GK Brad Kirkwood.
Scorers:
Tring: Jordan Davis (16), Matt Bateman (28)
Leighton: Ryan Sturges (37), Dave O’Connor (41), Chris Vardy (55)
Crowd: 77

Superb comeback secures derby win for Athletic


Tring Athletic came from two goals behind to secure a memorable 3-2 derby victory over Leighton Town on Saturday.


Deus Ex has you spoilt for choice.
Mankind Divided and so am I when it comes to reviewing the latest Deus Ex game after its launch last week.
There is so much to rave about in DEMD and I’m still enjoying it now over a week into the game.
But there are a number of elements which do not quite sit right with me.
Let’s start with the positives, though, and there are plenty of them.
There is layer upon layer in this game all expertly crafted together and beautifully designed.
The gameplay stands up to the high standards set by previous Deus Ex games and goes beyond them in many respects.
This is a game that will suit all types of gamers too.
Looking for a quick blast for an hour, you can jump on and get enough done to enjoy the experience, looking for longer, more involved sessions on your console then the gameplay rewards your patience, curiosity and creativity.
You play augmented human Jensen who is essentially the most deadly Power Ranger on the planet. I mean this guy has everything and would even give Superman a run for his money.
There are so many options to negotiate each scenario
And this is where my first problem lies with DEMD.
Sometimes, dare I say it, there are so many options available to you, so many ways to deal with scenarios and enemies and so much in your arsenal, it actually feels a bit ... easy.
‘Ramp up the difficulty setting!’ I hear you cry.
Well yes there’s that but my point is no matter what level you are playing at, Jensen just has too much at his disposal for his enemies to trouble him.
Sometimes, dare I say it, there are so many options available to you, so many ways to deal with scenarios and enemies and so much in your arsenal, it actually feels a bit ... easy. Damien Lucas, gaming columnist
But don’t get me wrong it’s still great fun entering a room littered with foes and walking out past a pile of them without breaking a sweat.
Another thing that doesn’t quite land for me is the Apartheid type references between the humans (naturals) and the augmented race. It is a poor attempt to give the storyline resonance with real life - for example there are posters dotted around saying things like ‘Augmented Lives Matter’ and it just feels a little frivolous.
I’m being hyper critical, though, and Deus Ex will go down as one of the games of the year of that there is no doubt.
Rating: 8.5/10

Console Corner: Deus Ex Mankind Divided review


Fertility experts are calling for tougher regulations around IVF treatment because the solutions used to grow embryos can influence the birthweight and health of babies.
They want firms a clear list of ingredients for the solutions like those used to regulate food such as peanut butter.
The demand follows the results of a trial that shows that the composition of these laboratory cultures influence the health of the resulting embryos and babies.
The trial found that they affected the numbers of viable embryos created, the rates of successful implantation in the womb, the pregnancy rates and the babies’ birthweights.
The findings were published in the journal Human Reproduction, together with a second paper that reviews what is currently known about embryo culture media.
The second paper concludes: “There is a strong case for demanding full transparency concerning the compositions of and scientific rationale behind the composition of embryo culture media”.
The journal’s editor-in-chief, Professor Hans Evers, called for “urgent action” by industry and regulators in the wake of the findings, saying that, just as with foods such as peanut butter, the exact composition of the culture media should be listed.
He said: “Floating an embryo for only a few days in a culture medium affects the birthweight of IVF children nine months later.
“Small differences in birthweight may reflect more subtle disturbances that only will manifest themselves later in life.
“As of today, not knowing the exact composition of their IVF culture media is no longer an option for clinical embryologists.”
Dr John Dumoulin, the IVF laboratory director at Maastricht University Medical Centre in The Netherlands, and his colleagues recruited 836 couples who were scheduled for IVF or ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) treatment at one of 10 IVF centres.
Dr Dumoulin said: “For the first time, by means of a large randomised controlled trial, we have shown that human embryos that are cultured in vivo are sensitive to their environment and that something is programmed into these embryos during those few days before transfer to the womb that still has an effect nine months later.
“This being the case, we must be aware that David Barker hypothesised that the environment in early life, from foetus to the first two years of life, can have a significant effect on long-term health.
“This means that we should be careful and we should no longer blindly accept new culture media, or other alterations in laboratory or clinical procedures, without first rigorously studying effectiveness and safety.”
In the second paper, a working group of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, led by Professor Arne Sunde, of the University Hospital in Trondheim, Norway, made the same recommendations.
Their research showed that culture media vary widely, their composition is usually unknown by the embryologists, doctors and patients, and figures about the influence of the media on outcomes are conflicting.
Prof Sunde said: “The key issue is that we must know the composition of the culture media we use, since it seems to induce differences in the make-up of the children born.
“We have no information about long-term consequences of this, but we cannot rule out that the composition of the culture media may affect the health of children as they grow up and become adults.”
At present, there is no uniform regulation of embryo culture media. In Europe, the majority of media approved for use carry the CE mark, but other non-CE media can still be used.
Prof Sunde added: “It is not obligatory to declare changes and the information we might get is far from sufficient.
“We want to know in detail what changes have been made and the scientific basis for the changes, including animal and human clinical data backing the change.”


Fertility experts are calling for tougher regulations around IVF treatment because the solutions used to grow embryos can influence the birthweight and health of babies.


A drug-user claims he was inspired by Breaking Bad to convert his own kitchen into a crystal meth laboratory.
James Stutter, 37, had been paying around £140 for a gram of the drug and thought it would be cheaper to make it himself.
He told St Albans Crown Court:”Having watched Breaking Bad and a couple of documentaries, I thought it would be easy to make. I had a great idea to make it.”
Stutter decided to try to manufacture the drug , which is hard to obtain in the UK, in his two-bedroom flat in Long Chaulden.
When the police raided the address they found a recipe book in which his partner Eleanor Hunt, 26, had written out the ingredients for crystal meth.
Prosecutor Roxanne Aisthorpe, told the jury: “You may have seen the TV series Breaking Bad. That laboratory was quite professional. That was not what happened in this case.”
She said lithium had been drained from batteries and there were traces of ephedrine or pseudoephedrine in a coffee grinder. Among other items recovered were lighter fuel, acetone, goggles, masks, Epsom salts and hydrogen peroxide.
Police raided the Hemel address after a parcel from the United States to the UK was intercepted on March 17, 2014. Crystal meth had been hidden inside the hollowed out portion of a colouring book. The police replaced the drug with a dummy substitute and arrested a man when it was delivered to an address near Hull.
When that man’s iPhone was examined texts were discovered between him and James Stutter.
Stutter, 37, formerly of Long Chaulden, Hemel and Hunt, 26, formerly of Tresco Road, Berkhamsted, now both of Riverside Gardens, Berkhamsted, denied attempting to make methylamphetamine on March 24, 2014. He was convicted, she was cleared by the jury.
He also pleaded guilty to possessing 3.77g cannabis and 1.67g amphetamine with intent to supply.
Recorder Leslie Cuthbert adjourned sentence on Stutter until September 9.


A drug-user claims he was inspired by Breaking Bad to convert his own kitchen into a crystal meth laboratory.


Pokemon GO players who are found to be cheating will have a permanent ban slapped on them, it has been announced.
The game’s developer, Niantic, has altered the terms and conditions to include the condition that a life ban will ensue for anyone caught using trickery to bag Pokemon.
The new clause prohibits: “Falsifying your location, using emulators, modified or unofficial software and/or accessing Pokemon GO clients or backends in an unauthorized manner including through the use of third party software.”
It has been reported that some users have managed to fool the app into thinking they were at a different location. Some Pokemon are region-specific, although taken to extremes, a player could play the game without leaving their home.
“Our goal is to provide a fair, fun and legitimate game experience for everyone,” Niantic said:
“We will continue to work with all of you to improve the quality of the gameplay, including ongoing optimization and fine tuning of our anti-cheat system.”
Anyone believing that have been unfairly banned can access an appeals system.


Pokemon GO players who are found to be cheating will have a permanent ban slapped on them, it has been announced.


The new school year may just be about to start but it’s already time for parents and carers to start planning ahead for next year.
The application process for secondary schools -including upper schools and university technical colleges - opens on Thursday (September 1).
If your child starts primary, or moves on to a junior, middle, secondary, upper or university technology college next year, make sure you apply for a place in good time.
The easiest way to apply for a school place for September 2017 is to visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissions and complete the online application form.
Online applications can be amended at any time up to the closing date and you can access your school offer before allocation letters are received and accept your school allocation online.
Last year, 99 per cent of parents applied this way.
Leaflets explaining the secondary transfer process will be distributed to families through their child’s primary or middle school at the beginning of September. Before making an application, parents and carers are strongly advised to visit schools and attend the information evenings to help them make their preferences. Leaflets outlining all the secondary and upper school open evenings were distributed in July.
The closing date for applications is October 31, 2016. It is vital that parents make their applications on time.
More information about the secondary transfer process is available on www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissions, and families without internet access can request a paper application form that must be returned direct to the admission and transport team. Application forms cannot be returned to primary schools.
The Under 11s application process (for applications to primary, junior and middle schools) opens on November 7 and the closing date is January 15.

Get planning for next year’s school applications


The new school year
may just be about to start but it’s already time for parents and carers to start planning ahead for next year.


A popular pub-restaurant chain has pledged to donate the full net price of every pizza or pasta dish they sell for three days to raise money towards the Italian relief effort in the wake of the Amatrice earthquake.
As the horrors of the Amatrice earthquake continue to unfurl, and the scale of the devastation and the need for assistance becomes ever more apparent, Oakman Inns & Restaurants has pledged to help by donating every penny they get from the sale of all their pizzas and pasta dishes from Tuesday August 30 to Thursday September 1 to the Italian Red Cross.
Oakman Inns chief executive Peter Borg-Neal
The company - which was founded by entrepeneur Peter Borg-Neal at the Akeman in his hometown Tring and operates the Kings Arms in Berkhamsted and The Red Lion in Water End, Hemel Hempstead - has decided to raise funds to help the Italian relief effort. As a result, every one of its 17-strong collection will be telling all customers over the next 48 hours and urging everyone to get on board the social media campaign to #EatForItaly.
CEO, Peter Borg-Neal, said the idea came due to the chain’s strong connections with Italy.
“Much of our menu is inspired by Italy and their traditional cuisine - and we therefore have a huge number of colleagues who are Italian,” he said.
“We have decided that we want to do something really meaningful to help the victims of this disaster. As a result, we will donate the full net price of every pizza or pasta dish sold next week for three days between Tuesday 30th August and Thursday 1st September to the Italian Red Cross. to help provide relief. If we sold our normal amount of dishes we would be sending a cheque for around £20,000 to Italy. I am hoping we will have to write a much bigger cheque.”
If we sold our normal amount of dishes we would be sending a cheque for around £20,000 to Italy. I am hoping we will have to write a much bigger cheque. Peter Borg-Neal, Oakman Inns CE0
Over the past two years, all Oakman Inns have been adding authentic wood-fired Pizza Ovens into their pubs and Peter insists on training his principal Pizza chefs in Italy. “One of our restaurant teams only recently came back from training in Naples, and on Tuesday night, only a few hours before this terrible event, we were holding an internal competition to discover our best Pizzaiolo.”
The 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck at 3:36am on Wednesday morning and devastated the towns of Amatrice, Accumoli and the village of Arquata del Tronto in the northern Lazio region of Italy. The Italian Red Cross and many other Italian and European emergency forces plus thousands of volunteers are providing rescue services and relief efforts for the survivors many of whom have lost everything in the space of a few minutes.
Hopes are dwindling of finding more survivors alive as aftershocks are continuing to hamper rescue efforts, and the number of people killed could yet surpass the last major earthquake to strike Italy in L’Aquilla in 2009 when more than 300 people died.
The mayor of Amatrice, Sergio Pirozzi, said: “Our heart is broken but will be resurrected”, while Italy’s prime minister, Matteo Renzi, added: “Today is a day for tears, tomorrow we can talk of reconstruction.”

Popular restaurant chain’s brilliant gesture in wake of Italian earthquake


A popular pub-restaurant chain has pledged to donate the full net price of every pizza or pasta dish they sell for three days to raise money towards the Italian relief effort in the wake of the Amatrice earthquake.


In July 1966 the England football team was about to pull off the impossible and London was fast becoming the hip, groovy and happening place to be.
High in the charts was The Kinks, with their second hit, Sunny Afternoon. This popular four-piece pop combo, fronted by Ray Davies and his younger brother Dave, hailed from North London, and were to become one of the most influential rock groups of all time.
Sunny Afternoon UK Tour cast
Fast forward almost 50 years and you don’t have to be a Dedicated Follower of Fashion to realise that Sunny Afternoon is back and riding high.
In 2014 Ray’s searingly honest musical slipped onto the genteel stage of Hampstead Theatre, blasted out its silver-haired audience, and won a whole new set of fans, before transferring to the West End, becoming a major hit and winning four Oliviers.
England didn’t make the cut at this year’s World Cup but Sunny Afternoon is set for continued success with a national tour playing in Milton Keynes Theatre from next week (August 30) and Aylesbury Waterside Theatre from September 27.
The cast were putting the finishing touches to the show at rehearsal studios on The Isle of Dogs in East London when I caught up with them.
I watched key cast members Ryan O’Donnell, playing Ray Davies, Mark Newnham, as brother Dave, Garmon Rhys as bassist Pete Quaife and Andrew Gallo playing Kinks’ drummer Mick Avory, going through their paces, including a rousing rendition of Sunny Afternoon before sitting down with them for a chat.
Tousle-haired Ryan, a former member of the Jethro Tull entourage, has already appeared in the 1960’s Who musical, Quadrophenia. He had to pass muster with The Kinks’ frontman Ray before bagging the part.
“I remember meeting Ray backstage once, after I’d got the part, and he said ‘Hi, nice to meet you’. He nodded his head and said: ‘So, you’re doing this are you? Ah’. And we shook hands and that was it, “said Ryan.
“Ray is very hands on. He comes to watch it quite a lot and he’s very supportive. He comes to all the auditions and is involved in casting.
“When you go into the final round of auditions there is this quiet man sitting at the back with a steely glare, passing judgement - which is pretty intimidating.
“I didn’t know much about The Kinks before I saw the show a couple of years ago, but obviously I knew the songs. They’re so iconic. But you don’t realise how many they wrote. It can be overwhelming for audiences. Just one great song after another. It’s a helluva show.”
Garmon, who has recently played Agatha Christie’s young detective, Tommy, and Wilfred Owen in the WWI drama, Regeneration at Northampton, here plays disillusioned guitarist Quaife, who suffers a crisis of confidence at the peak of the band’s success.
“My favourite song in the show is You Really Got Me,” he said, “Because it’s the first time you get to see the band play together as a four-piece properly, when they’re on Top of the Pops and you get a real buzz when you hear those first chords. It’s amazing.”
“I like Set Me Free, which is a pretty sexy tune, with all the trippy vocal harmonies and guitar riffs,” added Ryan.
“I have a constant battle with our music director, in songs like Sunny Afternoon. He comes up to me and says: ‘You are singing it like Ray but could you sing it a bit nicer? A bit brighter? It is supposed to be a happy moment in the show!’
“I say that it’s a lazy afternoon but he says: ‘Yeah, but it’s not a lazy moment in the show!’”
Garmon says that Britain can’t get enough of the 1960s. “It was a pioneering era for culture and fashion, especially British music and apparel.
“It was where a lot of modern fashions were started. Our wardrobe department have had it easy because the clothes and shoes, like the Chelsea Boots, are still in fashion.
“And our audiences are not all in their 60s. We have kids of all ages because everyone loves 1960’s music.”
“The reason Sunny Afternoon has been so successful is that audiences don’t just come to hear amazing songs that they remember but there are a lot of familiar themes - money, homesickness, the class struggle.”
“A lot of people come up to me,” said Ryan, “who were around at that time and didn’t know the full story. This has a strong narrative, is a fascinating play, as well as a great musical.”
Andrew Gallo, who came to MKT with Saturday Night Fever, has an impressive drum solo in Sunny Afternoon which earns the admiration of everyone.
“I was originally up for Pete, Mick and their manager. I had five drum songs to learn plus their scenes and, just in case, another song. I hadn’t touched the drums for a year so I booked myself into a studio and drummed for about four hours solid until I gave myself blisters!”
He first heard The Kinks at the age of 12 after discovering a cache of old cassette tapes while sitting with mates in a neighbour’s attic. “We just played them on a loop. They were amazing”.
Mark, who plays wild Dave, swilling fizz, swinging from a chandelier, bedding the birds and wearing a frock or two, used to play The Kinks songs when he was in a band in Brighton.
“I knew that Ray and Dave had a tempestuous relationship. Their songs are so iconic. It was so magical the way Ray wrote about stuff. He came up with some incredible lyrics. I haven’t stopped listening to The Kinks since I got the job.
“Dave is a real gift to play. He’s so flamboyant and has such a verve for life. And the script is fantastic. You could take the songs out and still have an incredible play.
“I auditioned in front of Ray, which was interesting. I had already auditioned for Pete and Dave. I did my Pete stuff first and had my fringe over one way and then, when I did my Dave audition, I said: “Do you mind if I manipulate my fringe?’ which made Ray laugh.
“I moved it into a centre parting and he said: ‘Oh yeah, you’re playing a different character’. ‘Yeah, I’m playing your little brother!’ and again I made him laugh.”
Sunny Afternoon plays at Milton Keynes Theatre August 30-September 3 and Aylesbury Waterside, September 27-October 1. To book visit www.atgtickets.co.uk/miltonkeynes or www.atgtickets.co.uk/aylesbury,

No lazing on a Sunny Afternoon for new cast ahead of Milton Keynes and Aylesbury dates.


In July 1966 the England football team was about to pull off the impossible and London was fast becoming the hip, groovy and happening place to be.


A study has found that half of parents with children under the age of 14 allow them to drink alcohol at home.
And, perhaps more worryingly, one in 10 respondents to the Churchill Home Insurance survey allow children between the ages of five and seven to drink alcohol.
While it is not illegal for a child between the age of five and 16 to drink alcohol on private premises, it flies in the face of advice from the Chief Medical Officer whose official advice warns: “Children and their parents or carers are advised that an alcohol-free childhood is the healthiest and best option. However, if children drink alcohol underage, it should not be until at least the age of 15 years.
“Parents and young people should be aware that drinking, even at age 15 or older, can be hazardous to health and that not drinking is the healthiest option for young people.”

Do you think it’s okay to allow children to drink some alcohol at home?


A study has found that half of parents with children under the age of 14 allow them to drink alcohol at home.


Hemel Town’s injury curse is striking again giving manager Dean Brennan selection headaches in a hectic August schedule.
The Tudors boss was without seven players going into Saturday’s National League South match at a strong Ebbsfleet United.
And although his side came back twice to earn a hugely creditable 2-2 draw, two more players picked up knocks to add to the list.
Brennan said: “It’s just bad luck. We had seven out already and two more suffered injuries.
“We had to make four changes for Saturday and there will be more changes for this weekend.
“But it was a much better performance from us on Saturday. Ebbsfleet have a fantastic squad, they are a good side, and I’m sure they’ll be up there at the end of the season.”
That inability to field a settled side has meant a mixed start to the campaign for the Tudors – with the misfortune of running up against two rampant goal machines.
That included Maidenhead’s Dave Tarpey who scored four of his side’s goals in a heavy 5-0 victory over Hemel last Tuesday night.
“We seem to have hit strikers in form in our defeats at Maidenhead and Eastbourne. The first at Eastbourne scored three, then at Maidenhead four,” said Brennan.
This weekend sees Hemel play a double header against the two sides promoted from the Southern League Premier.They take on Poole Town at home on Saturday followed by a trip to Hungerford Town on Bank Holiday Monday.
Both have started their campaigns well, which came as no surprise to the Tudors boss: “We’ve watched Poole, and seven of their players we played against back in the Southern League. They’ve been building for five years, they have that consistency.
“It’s the same with Hungerford, they have been together since they were playing back in the Southern League Division One Midlands league. They know each other.
“Only one team was relegated into this division, whereas a number have been promoted, and they’ve got used to winning. There are no easy games in this league.
“We need to get the same team out every week. Saturday was our fifth game in two weeks and we have six more in the next two and a half weeks. With our injuries and so many games it’s probably a good time to play us!
“But we shall concentrate on one game at a time, get people back playing and I’m confident we shall have a good season.”
This weekend could see Jonny McNamara return from injury with Lewis Taafe and Kyle Connolly also possibly available for selection.


Hemel Town’s injury curse is striking again giving manager Dean Brennan selection headaches in a hectic August schedule.


A recruitment firm has been named the best company in the UK for work-life balance.
Financial recruiter Goodman Masson took first place in the list by jobs site Glassdoor, based on reviews submitted to its website by current and former staff.
The company, which is based in London and also has offices in Dusseldorf, was praised by staff for its “huge investment” in staff benefits and “great” parties twice a year.
“The attention paid to the wellbeing of staff is at a level rarely matched elsewhere,” said an anonymous employee working in the London office.
In second place was technology firm Cisco Systems, and in third place was insurer HomeServe.
West Midlands-based HomeServe, which employs 1,200 people at its headquarters in Walsall and has 2.1 million customers in the UK, was commended for its attitude towards the treatment of its staff.
“The salary is very competitive and you are rewarded very generously for your hard work and just for carrying out your role. The company has a great framework for career progression and is always looking to promote people internally for job roles,” said a water supply engineer working at the firm.
Greg Reed, chief marketing officer at HomeServe, said: “We believe if you take care of your people, they will take care of your customers. This means creating a culture where people genuinely enjoy coming to work every day because they feel what they do really makes a difference in our customers’ lives.”
Temping firm LOLA and Screwfix completed the top five. Other companies in the top 20 included Apple, American Express Lloyds Banking Group, Unilever and John Lewis.
Google is known for its plush offices, but doesn’t make the top 20 companies for work-life balance. Its new London office has sleep pods so workers can take a nap, although perhaps this is an indication of long hours.
For a company to have been considered, at least 50 work-life balance ratings must have been submitted by UK-based employees in the past year.
The top 20 companies for work-life balance:
1. Goodman Masson
2. Cisco Systems
3. HomeServe UK
4. LOLA Staffing
5. Screwfix
6. American Express
7. BP
8. Peninsula Business Services
9. ARM Holdings
10. Unilever
11.Thomson Reuters
12. Kantar Worldpanel
13. Atkins
14. Téléfonica
15. Credit Suisse
16. Rolls-Royce
17. John Lewis
18. Waitrose
19. Lloyds Banking Group
20. Apple

Revealed: The top UK companies for work-life balance


A recruitment firm has been named the best company in the UK for work-life balance.


The Cola-Cola glass bottle has been voted as the most iconic packaging on the UK’s shelves.
A study of 1,500 Brits exploring the influence of packaging and branding on shopping habits found that one in six people thought the Coca-Cola bottle was the most identifiable in terms of packaging.
Indeed, it was deemed to be just as recognisable without its logo or the product itself.
The research, commissioned by Easyfairs, organisers of Packing Innovations and Luxury Packaging London, found the Toblerone triangular chocolate bar finished as a close runner up, with Marmite’s glass jar rated as third-best-loved product packaging.
Beauty brands, such as the Tiffany Box and the Chanel No.5 Bottle just missed out on the top ten.
Coke’s success has been attributed to its targeting younger audience, with one in five Millennials selecting the bottle as the most recognisable pack product.Pringles’ iconic cylinder tube, fourth on the overall list, was the Millennial’s second favourite.
The study also revealed barcodes as the greatest packaging invention, ahead of more traditional items such as the cardboard box (21 per cent) - although the younger generation, 18-34 years, voted for 3D printing and re-sealable zips as its top two.
Gerry Sherwood, Event Director for the Easyfairs’ Packaging Portfolio, who commissioned the survey, said: “Millennials have officially passed Baby Boomers as the largest generation in history, and are more personally connected to their favourite brands than ever before. It is therefore not surprising to see 3D printing come out top in our poll for this age group.”
Top Ten Most Recognisable Brand’s Packaging
1. Coca-Cola Bottle
2. Toblerone Triangle
3. Marmite Jar
4. Pringles Tube
5. KFC Bucket
6. Heinz Ketchup Bottle
7. Fairy Liquid Bottle
8. Apple’s iPhone Box
9. Walkers Crisp Packet
10. Amazon Box

Coca-Cola bottle ‘most iconic packaging’


The Cola-Cola glass bottle has been voted as the most iconic packaging on the UK’s shelves.