Archive

  • Bowls club in crisis

    A 50-year-old Whetstone bowls club is in crisis after being told it has to vacate its premises, despite previous assurances from Barnet Council that it did not have to move. Nortel Bowls Club in Denham Road, Whetstone, has been given the ultimatum by

  • Debate reopens on Partingdale Lane's closure

    Angry words were exchanged over the proposed reopening of Partingdale Lane ahead of a key meeting to discuss its future last night. Barnet Council was due to discuss the reopening the controversial Mill Hill road and former rat-run, which has now been

  • Amwell Day

    Local fundraisers helping the elderly of Wheathampstead; all the fun of the fair, horse coach rides, morris dancers; The Elephant and Castle, Amwell Lane, Wheathampstead; 11am to 4pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Hogarth painting goes on the march for £4m

    The famous William Hogarth painting March of the Guards to Finchley has been sold for £4million to a new London museum. The 1749 satirical masterpiece has been acquired for the new Foundling Museum in London. It was paid for by large grants from the Art

  • Maximum R 'n' B

    A mighty line-up with The Manfreds, Long John Baldry, Chris Farlowe and Colin Blunstone; Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans; 6pm and 9pm; tickets 13.50 to 17.50 from the box office on 01727 844488. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Borehamwood: charity dog show

    Thousands of people are expected at a special charity dog show to be held in Borehamwood's Tempsford Green on Sunday, June 23. Movie star Jenny Seagrove will help to judge the competition, along with other well-known figures. There will be 12 novelty

  • Borehamwood and Radlett: Dance project

    Young people's theatre company Traffic Lights Productions is looking for performers to take part in a dance choreography project. People with a background in Jazz and contemporary dance would be welcome. Rehearsals will take place on Tuesdays and Sundays

  • Borehamwood: Film Evening

    The Elstree Film Evening, celebrating 75 years of production at Borehamwood's studios, will be held at the BBC Elstree Centre on Saturday, June 29. The event will feature celebrity guests, the BBC Elstree Concert Band and film clips. Tickets 4 in advance

  • Date at the Palace

    Seven Barnet residents were celebrating after being given gongs in the Queen's Birthday Honours list this weekend. Eric Shearly, 82, of Granville Road, Barnet, was awarded an MBE for his work as a teacher at Queen Elizabeth's School for Boys. "I'm fortunate

  • Borehamwood: BBC Elstree Concert Band

    The 40-piece BBC Elstree Concert Band will perform music from American composers Henry Mancini, Jerome Kern and George Gershwin, along with a Frank Sinatra singalong and other pieces at Allum Hall, Allum Lane, Elstree from 7.30pm on Monday, June 24. Tickets

  • Zigger Zagger

    Watford Grammar School for Boys, Rickmansworth Road, Watford; Thursday, June 20 to Saturday, June 29, 7pm; tickets 4 adults, 3 conc. Tel: 01923 208900. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Classic Concerts

    A soiree musicale, concert supper; St Edmunds Church, Pinner Road, Northwood Hills, Sunday, June 23, 7pm; tickets 10 supper or 3 concert only. Tel: 020 8866 4610. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • An Evening of Film Music

    Hosted by Terry Pettigrew; Prince Edward Hall, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield; Sunday, June 23, 7.30pm; tickets 12. Tel: box office 01707 284004. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Three Rivers Chamber Orchestra

    Presents an evening of English Music to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee ; St Mary's Church, Church Street, Rickmansworth; Saturday, June 22; tickets 7, 1 for accompanied children available at the door or tel: 01923 772627 for further details. June

  • Nifty 50's Club

    Meets for badminton, bowls, Scrabble and other activities; YMCA, Charter Place, Watford; Wednesday, June 26, 2pm to 5pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Verulam Writer's Circle

    Meets for the chrystal decanter competition; St Michael's Church hall, St Michael's Street, St Albans; Wednesday, June 26, 8pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Women's Club

    Meets for personal development for the 21st Century by Melody Cheale; Cassio Lodge, The Avenue, Watford; Tuesday, June 25, 8pm; membership is open to any woman who is working or on a career break. Tel: Membership Secretary on 01923 236775 for more details

  • Kings Bridge Club

    Meets for friendly duplicate bridge for players of all levels, no partner necessary; All Saints Church, Kings Langley; Monday, June 24, 1.30pm. Tel: 01923 262802 for further details. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • St Albans YHA Group

    Meets for a day walk in the Chiltern Hills; meet at St Albans War Memorial; Sunday, June 23, 10am or Wendover station car park, 11am. Tel: 01707 335803 for further details. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Royal Razmatazz Summer Fair

    At the Little Chalfont Combined School, Oakington Avenue, Little Chalfont; Saturday, June 22, 1pm to 4pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Sir James Altham Class of 82

    20 year reunion all mid-80's pupils welcome, disco and food; Labour Club, Henbury Way, South Oxhey; Saturday, June 22, 7pm to midnight; admission 10 on the door. Tel: Gill Clarke 01908 647577. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Denham Giant Car Boot Sale

    At the Denham Roundabout, Main A40; Saturday, June 22, 11am to 4pm; cars 8. Tel: 07947 121336 for further details. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Spotlight

    For budding singers, dancers and drama enthusiasts; Orbital Community Centre, Haines Way, Leavesden; Saturday, June 22, 10am to noon; admission 5 payable on the day. Tel: 01923 894444 for further details. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Shenley: Pregnancy and Baby Fair

    A Pregnancy and Baby Fair, hosted by the Radlett, Shenley and District branch of the National Childbirth Trust, will be held at the Old Chapel, in Porters Park Drive, Shenley, on Saturday, June 29. The event, between 11am and 3pm, will feature stalls

  • Borehamwood: charity annual general meeting

    A Borehamwood charity helping young families will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, June 27. Home Start Borehamwood and District, based in Berwick Road, will present certificates to newly-qualified volunteers and those who have served for a year. Future

  • Radlett: Summer art exhibition

    Radlett Art Society will present its Summer Exhibition from Saturday, June 22, at The Radlett Centre. The exhibition features pieces from all members of the society wishing to show their work. Admission free. Open 3.30pm to 6pm on June 22, 10am to 4pm

  • Borehamwood: Amateur musical and dramatic society

    Elstree Productions, the amateur musical and dramatic society, is looking for more people to take part in its exciting spring show, Cabaret. Actors, singers (especially a male tenor) and dancers, aged 16 or above, are required. The society is also searching

  • Credit card fraudster jailed for 21 months

    A STUDENT from Garston who helped defraud almost £250,000 by copying 120 credit cards while working in a shop in Hatfield's Galleria was jailed for 21 months on Friday, June 14. Ross Lee, 21, of Louvain Way, admitted that while working as a cashier at

  • Wiseguys rob football hardman

    FORMER Chelsea football club hardman Dennis Wise had his Radlett home burgled after a back window was smashed to gain entry. The former England representative, who plays for Leicester City, had his house broken into while away on holiday. Hertfordshire

  • Writer's factory film dreams go according to script

    THE Ovaltine factory could be captured on celluloid if a former Kings Langley resident has his way. Mr Paul Croston, of Goodwood Avenue, Watford, has spent five years penning a film script featuring the site in Station Road. The 35-year-old, who teaches

  • Derelict land earmarked for flats

    A BLOCK of flats is to be built on a strip of derelict land in north Watford to meet desperate housing needs. Plans for a two storey building of eight flats and two bungalows in Diamond Road were granted planning permission by Watford Council on Tuesday

  • Company 'mislead' public about train incident

    A TRAIN operator has admitted misleading the public about an incident that left 150 passengers stranded. Chiltern Railways told The Watford Observer in early June it decided to divide the 11.54pm train from Marylebone to Aylesbury after its driver discovered

  • Proposal could see car dumping skyrocket

    FEARS of a massive outbreak of car dumping across Hertfordshire have been sparked by a Government proposal. Under new plans that follow a European Union (EU) directive, the most recent owner of a vehicle will be forced to to pay for its disposal. If adopted

  • Jubilee baton on its way to Watford

    THE Queen's Jubilee baton is to be carried through the Watford area on Friday, June 28. The baton relay started from Buckingham Palace on March 11 and is a 19-week journey through 24 Commonwealth countries including Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, Australia

  • Watford FC in dire financial state

    THE future of crisis-hit Watford FC is on the line after a senior director revealed if the Hornets were involved in any other business "we would be stopping it". This dire prognosis was issued by chief executive Tim Shaw, who also refused to rule out

  • Fair trade call

    WATFORD MP Claire Ward called on Prime Minister Tony Blair to ensure developing countries are not exploited by global trade rules after meeting with 30 constituents who travelled to London to tale part in a lobby organised by the Trade Justice Movement

  • Creative hubbub

    STUDENTS from the Creative Industries Hub at West Herts College are celebrating the end of their academic year with an exhbition of their work at Leavesden Technology Park from noon until 8pm on Thursday, June 27. June 21, 2002 13:30

  • Stepmum who killed Lauren to serve five years less

    A New Barnet man is taking a defiant stance after his neighbours demanded he remove a bench he erected in memory of his late wife. Jim Wilson, 72, of Shaftesbury Avenue, is furious at the lack of compassion shown by three of his neighbours who claim the

  • Stepmum who killed Lauren to serve five years less

    The wife of former Potters Bar mechanic Craig Wright, who was jailed for 15 years for killing her stepdaughter Lauren Wright, had her sentence cut on Friday. Tracey Wright, of Welney, Norfolk, was jailed in October last year after inflicting years of

  • Freehold was a real bargain

    Former Barnet Council leader Alan Williams is completely wrong to say that "anybody who has a lease has the right to purchase the freehold and Barnet FC are no different" (No cover up', June 13, 2002). A leaseholder simply has no such right. A landlord

  • Damage done by last council

    As the newly-elected Conservative councillors for Underhill, we read Mr Sawyer's letter about Barnet FC's planning application for a second stadium with interest ('Listen to majority', May 23). As Mr Sawyer makes clear, the damage was done when the planning

  • We want to stay

    The new Conservative regime at Barnet Council, led by councillors Lyon and Coleman, seem to be calling offside' on the democratic vote in favour of Barnet FC's planning application for a new stadium to the south of Underhill and crying foul' on the football

  • Wrong to do deal without telling public

    In response to the Barnet & Potters Bar Times ('No cover up', June 13) the question of whether the sale of the existing football ground to Barnet FC by the previous administration was wrong is for determination by the investigation which is to be

  • Calvert gets England call

    Luke Calvert, of Finchley ABC, will represent England against Scotland, Wales and Ireland, in the Four Nations Junior tournament at Glasgow next week. It's the first representative honour for Luke, 17, who was called up for training with the England squad

  • Harriers may send 11 to Commonwealth Games

    Shaftesbury Barnet will be strongly represented in the Commonwealth Games next month. Seven athletes have been named in the England team, and the total should exceed double figures with the announcement of the Scottish and Welsh squads. Competing for

  • Barnes make the most of being let off the hook

    Barnes 177 Barnet 129 Middlesex County League Division Two Barnet had Barnes on the rack at 100-7, off 41 overs, but lost their grip in the face of a powerful onslaught by the visitors who added 77 runs off the next 11 overs for a total of 177. This proved

  • Slimming Magazine Club.

    Meets in the town hall assembly rooms, St Albans; every Tuesday, 6.30pm and 7.15pm; details from Ann on 01582 733271. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Modular test for cabbies will get them on the road sooner

    TRAINEE mini-cab drivers who spend months committing the streets of Watford to memory will be able to get on the road sooner with the introduction modular test that will allow them to do The Knowledge in stages. It is hoped the new test, which was brought

  • Barclays woe

    Barclays 181 Southgate 184-4 Middlesex County League Division Two Barclays lost an intriguing mach against unbeaten leaders Southgate by six wickets. Opting to bat, Barclays could only total 181, with Evert Ferreira (66) providing the basis of the innings

  • Village stay in touch

    Mill Hill Village 192-8 Calthorpe 176-7 Middlesex Championship DivisionTwo Mill Hill Village remained in touch with the leaders with a hard-fought draw against Calthorpe on Saturday. Rhodri Jones (50), Mark Saunders (32) and Richard Crowther (52) batted

  • Mobile jobs service arrives

    JOB-HUNTERS will soon find opportunities coming to them with the setting up of a mobile job information service. Hertfordshire Jobcentre Plus is working in partnership with Arriva Buses to develop the Jobs Bus, launched at Watford Jobcentre in St Albans

  • Sutherland spins in

    Sunbury 128 Brondesbury 129-3 Evening Standard Trophy second round Sunbury launched an early blitz on Brondesbury's seam attack, racing to 90-1 off 14 overs. But the introduction of spinner Charlie Sutherland (5-25), aided by a magnificent stumping by

  • Afternoon Tea Dance

    Dancing and social club, over 50s welcome, every Thursday; Catholic Church Hall, Beaconsfield Road, St Albans; 2pm to 4pm; details on 01727 857106. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Leaders kick-start another bad weekend for Finchley

    Finchley 166 Teddington 168-2 Middlesex County League Division One Finchley suffered another gloomy weekend. After losing by eight wickets at leaders Teddington in the league, who stretched their winning sequence to six, Finchley bowed out of the Evening

  • St Albans Abbey Folk Dance Club

    Meetings every Thursday; St Stephen's Church hall, Watling Street, St Albans; every Thursday, 7.45pm to 9.45pm; all welcome; for more details call Brenda on 01727 846606. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Tough start to new season

    Barnet, fancied to make a bold challenge for a play-off slot in the coming campaign, face a tough early programme. On Saturday, August 17, they kick-off away to Doncaster, who finished fourth last season pipping the Bees on goal difference after both

  • Royal visit

    The Earl and Countess of Wessex will be visiting the North London Hospice in Woodside Avenue, North Fincley, on Wednesday next week to help mark the centre's tenth anniversary. Their Royal Highnesses will meet inpatients, staff and volunteers and have

  • Grant to help get children out of B&Bs

    Homeless families in Barnet received a welcome boost this week after the Government announced a £360,000 grant to reduce the number of families in bed and breakfast accommodation in the borough. Under proposals announced this week, almost £23million is

  • World War II Evacuees

    Did local children get on well with the evacuees? How long did they stay? June 21, 2002 13:00

  • World War II Evacuees

    Did local children get on well with the evacuees? How long did they stay? June 21, 2002 13:00

  • Exotic meats find a home in Mill Hill

    Mill Hill is to become the ostrich centre of Britain after a company signed an exclusive deal to import and distribute 'the healthiest meat you can eat'. Plantation Trading Ltd in Flower Lane, has become the sole agents of ostrich meat from the Klein

  • Chemists on duty

    The chemists on duty in Barnet for this weekend (June 22) are as follows: BARNET Sunday: 11am-12.30pm: Parry Jones, 61 High Street. (020 8449 0169) FINCHLEY Sunday: 11am-12.30pm: Pickles Chemist, 73 Ballards Lane. (020 8346 0923) NORTH FINCHLEY Sunday

  • Hornets in crisis

    LUCA VIALLI would still be Watford's manager if it was not for the ITV Digital disaster, Tim Shaw has claimed. Faced with a shortfall in income of up to £3 million for the next two years, the chief executive maintains the club could no longer afford the

  • About the Clock Tower

    I HAVE had a query about the history of the Clock Tower, in particular in the 1930's. When was the No Entry sign put there? When did Halfords have their shop next door, and when did Halfords' windows change from bay or bow style to a more modern design

  • Fans react to Vialli's dismissal

    CHIEF EXECUTIVE Tim Shaw and the board of directors have come under fire from some Watford fans following Luca Vialli's sacking on Friday, June 14. In the wake of the manager's dimissal, we asked supporters to email their views on the Hornets' crisis.

  • 'Stunned' Vialli was not willing to walk

    LUCA VIALLI was "stunned and surprised" when his employment was terminated on Friday, June 14. The Watford manager, with two years of his contract to run, appreciated that by axing Ray Wilkins and three backroom staff the board may have had a hidden agenda

  • 'Back your heart' Shaw urges fans

    WATFORD are pleased by the 7,500 season tickets sold to date, but Tim Shaw has urged fans who are still considering whether to buy one to put their hands in their pockets, if only to help the Hornets during their troubles. "I have been very, very encouraged

  • About Dr Jim Jameson

    LAST week's query about Dr Jim Jameson has been promptly answered by his son, Michael. He told me his father first worked as a doctor in St Albans in 1928, and was in a practice at 105 Victoria Street until he moved to the city hospital in 1949, after

  • Librarian gets senior position at British Library

    A LIBRARIAN from St Albans has been chosen to spearhead a high profile senior position at one of the world's most famous libraries. Ms Julia Stocken, has been appointed head of science, technology and innovation at the British Library in London. She will

  • Dophina dive into action

    DOLPHINA GYMNASTICS CLUB held their annual Club Competition at Watford Leisure Centre, Horeshoe Lane on Saturday, June 15, with almost 50 girls competing for medals in both individual and overall age-group events. As well as competition though, the senior

  • St Albans man competes in San Francisco triathlon

    A ST ALBANS man of 44 competed in one of the top triathlon events in the world in San Francisco last Sunday (June 16). Mr Mark Cathcart of Chestnut Drive finished 909th overall, and 81st in his age group, out of about 1,500 contestants in the Escape from

  • DiPaola hones in on international target

    ENGLAND international archer Adrian DiPaola is hoping not to find out why it is harder to retain a title than win it when he flies to Johannesburg, South Africa, next month to defend his World 3D Championship crown. "I'm looking forward to shooting against

  • Calling former pupils of Chater School

    WE would love to hear from any other former pupils of Chater School who were in the year group that started in September 1960 and who left in July 1964. Just over a year ago in the Nostalgia section you published a photograph of a 1961 Christmas play

  • Calling former pupils of Chater School

    WE would love to hear from any other former pupils of Chater School who were in the year group that started in September 1960 and who left in July 1964. Just over a year ago in the Nostalgia section you published a photograph of a 1961 Christmas play

  • Rice dishes out Bushey blow

    CHORLEYWOOD romped into the last eight of the The Watford Observer Knockout Trophy with a nine-wicket demolition of Bushey on Tuesday, June 18. Wood's success was built upon a disciplined bowling display that strangled the Bushey innings from the outset

  • Champions start is style with Berko win

    NORTHWOOD began the defence of their Slazenger Chess Valley League Division One title with a convincing seven-wicket win over Berkhamstead on Sunday, June 16. A fine-all-round bowling performance led by Wijesuriya, who picked up three wickets including

  • Where are Ray and Dorothy Middleton?

    CAN anyone supply information as to the whereabouts of Ray and Dorothy Middleton, formerly of 9, Little Oxhey Lane, Oxhey, Herts? They had a son, Michael, who would be aged in his late 50's by now. Dorothy's maiden name was Loader and Ray was Canadian

  • Nifty 50's Club

    Meets for badminton, bowls, Scrabble and other activities; YMCA, Charter Place, Watford; Wednesdays, 2pm to 5pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Bushey Meads Women's Club

    Meets for various speakers, demonstrations and outings; United Reformed Church Hall, High Street, Bushey; every Wednesday, 7.15pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Who knows William Frederick Hunt?

    WILLIAM FREDERICK HUNT, who was killed in 1921, was a former Hertfordshire constable who joined the Royal Engineers during the Great War and was commissioned into the Royal Enniskilling Fusiliers in 1916. After the war in 1920, he joined the Royal Irish

  • Harvest End Women's Club

    Meets at Meriden Community Centre, Garston; every Wednesday, 7.30pm. New members very welcome. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Batsmen secure Area spot

    LANGLEYBURY produced another awesome batting performance to dispose of St Margaretsbury by seven wickets in the National Village Championships on Sunday, June 16, and march emphatically into the Area Final. Chasing a challenging but acheivable total of

  • Late lapses cost OMT

    OLD MERCHANT TAYLORS' generous declaration cost them dear as they ended up losing a Morrant Thames Valley League game to Chiswick & Latymer on Saturday, June 15, that they had dominated for long periods. OMT continued their policy of batting first

  • Commons column: Saffron Walden MP Sir Alan Haselhurst

    The air is full of rumours about airports and runways. This state of affairs is likely to continue for several months as important reports are expected. Demand for air travel is set to rise substantially over the next thirty years. This may mean as many

  • Extension work ready to go ahead

    PLANS to extend facilities at Mountfitchet High School in Stansted are set to get underway later this year. The first stage of the development is a £2.2m sports centre, work on which is due to start during the summer holidays. The school also plans to

  • Watford's finest sent to camp

    THE most promising of Hertfordshire's young sporting talent will travel to Norwich this weekend (June 22/23), to take part in the regions first Active Sports Talent Camp initiated by Sport England. More than 1,000 youngsters between the ages eight and

  • Open Mic Session

    Every Wednesday, hosted by local band organised by St Albans blues/rock trio Mojo, guest performers and floor spots are welcome and all performers get a free drink get there early to book your place; Mermaid pub, Hatfield Road, St Albans; admission free

  • Traditional Music Sessions

    Every Thursday mainly English and Irish traditional tunes and songs everyone welcome to listen or to play; Rose & Crown, St Michael's Street, St Albans; 9pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Body found at Welsh Harp

    The partly decomposed body of a man was found on Wednesday in undergrowth down a steep embankment in the Welsh Harp open space. A post-mortem held this morning proved inconclusive but police are not treating the death as suspicious. Police were called

  • Welwyn Hatfield At War

    A new exhibition about life in the area during the First and Second World Wars; Welwyn Hatfield Museum, Mill House, Mill Green, Mill Green; Tuesdays to Fridays 10am to 5pm, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays 2pm to 5pm; admission free; until July 14

  • Wife fears for the safety of missing Jerzy

    A Friern Barnet woman this week said she feared the worst for her husband who has been missing for almost three weeks after walking out of a psychiatric unit. Monica Madrzyk made another emotional plea for her husband Jerzy, who is suffering from depression

  • The Philharmonic at UH

    An evening of Film Music hosted by Terry Pettigrew; Prince Edward Hall, Hatfield Campus, University of Hertfordshire; Sunday, June 23, 7.30pm; tickets 12 from the box office on 01707 284004. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Herts Jazz

    John Colliani Trio; The Fairway, Fairway Suite, Old Herns Lane, Welwyn Garden City; doors open 7.30pm, music starts at 8pm; admission 5 for members and 5 for non-members. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Oboe and Piano Recital

    Featuring Hannah Grant and Terence Rodbard in aid of Romanian Care; New Hall, Aldwickbury School, Harpenden; 5.30pm; admission free. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • St Albans Chamber Opera

    A varied programme of arias and ensembles ranging from Mozart to Mentotti; Rothamsted Manor, Harpenden; 7.30pm; tickets 13.50 from 01582 621757 or 760463; all proceeds to The Children's Society. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Paper Making Workshop

    An intriguing session for all the family; Museum of St Albans, Hatfield Road, St Albans; one hour sessions throughout the day; cost 3.50 per person. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Radlett: Art Society Summer Exhibition

    Radlett Art Society will present its Art Society Summer Exhibition from Saturday, June 22, at The Radlett Centre. The exhibition features pieces from all members of the society wishing to show their work. Admission free. Open 3.30pm to 6pm on June 22,

  • Radlett: Midsummer Miscellany

    The Radlett Players will perform at Shenley's Walled Gardens on Friday, June 21, Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23. The Midsummer Miscellany will feature extracts from A Midsummer Night's Dream, the Mad Hatter's Tea Party, Private Lives, a Cricket

  • Borehamwood: fire and ambulance open days

    Borehamwood fire and ambulance stations will hold open days on Saturday, June 29. At the Elstree Way police station, from 2pm to 5pm, visitors will see major incident equipment, and find out more about becoming a special constable, security, motorcycle

  • Borehamwood:Festival Quiz Evening

    Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council's Festival Quiz Evening, which will take place at 7pm on Friday, June 28, at the Three Ways Community Association, Arundel Drive, Borehamwood. Entry is free and there can be up to five people in each team, and a licensed

  • Borehamwood: Festival baby show

    A Festival baby show will be held at Allum Hall, Allum Lane, Elstree, from 1.30pm on Tuesday, June 25. Babies can be entered on the day. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Borehamwood: free concert

    An orchestra of young musicians from Fontenay-aux-Roses, Borehamwood's twin town, will perform a free concert at Hertswood School's Cowley Hill site from 8pm on Saturday, June 22. Performers from the French town's College des Ormeaux took part in last

  • Elstree: Rock and Roll Night

    A Rock and Roll Night will be held on June 22, at Allum Hall, in Allum Lane, at 7pm, featuring live music, a jive school and dance displays. Audience members are invited to wear 1950s clothing. Tickets cost 5 in advance. 020 8207 1382. June 21, 2002 21

  • Painting Exhibition

    Presented by Novgorod artist Yuri Eryshef; Palace Theatre, Green Room, Clarendon Road, Watford; runs until Saturday, July 6. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Summer Exhibition

    Presented by Friends of Bushey Museum; Bushey Museum and Art Gallery, Rudolph Road, Bushey; Saturday, June 22 to November 3; open 11am to 4pm, Thursday to Sunday only; admission free. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Neighbours war over memorial bench

    A New Barnet man is taking a defiant stance after his neighbours demanded he remove a bench he erected in memory of his late wife. Jim Wilson, 72, of Shaftesbury Avenue, is furious at the lack of compassion shown by three of his neighbours who claim the

  • The Hollybush Folk Club

    Presents Singer, songwriter and musician Sandra Kerr; The Old School Room, The Hollybush PH, Church End, Redbourn; Thursday, June 27, 8.15pm; admission 4. Tel: 07710 471862. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Watford Folklore Society

    Meets for lecture by Tom Doig entitled The Folklore of Births and Baptisms; Oracle Centre, 12 Market Street, Watford; Thursday, June 27, 8pm; visitors welcome, admission 4.50. Tel: 01923 229784. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Park Street Bridge Club

    Meets for friendly duplicate bridge for players of all levels, no partner necessary; Holy Trinity Parish Church, Frogmore; Thursday, June 27, 1.30pm. Tel: 01727 867460 for further details. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Abbots Langley Art Club

    Meets for painting and drawing; Manor Lodge, Gallows Hill Lane, Abbots Langley; Wednesday, June 26, 8pm to 10pm; new members welcome. Tel: 01923 662204. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • North Watford Air Rifle and Pistol Club

    Welcomes safe and enthusiastic new members to shoot indoors at six yards and ten metres range; Christ Church hall, St Albans Road, north Watford; Wednesday, June 26, 7.30pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Buckinghamshire Pottery and Sculpture Society

    Meets for a talk and demonstration by Sean Miller; Chorleywood Arts Centre, Chorleywood; Wednesday, June 26, 8pm to 10pm; visitors welcome, admission 5. Tel: Sarah O'Niell 01494 782240 for further details. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Phoenix Circle (Afternoon) Club

    Meets for various speakers, demonstrations; St Peter's Church Hall, Bushey Mill Lane, Watford; Wednesday, June 26, 2.30pm; new members welcome. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Watford Floral Society

    Meets for a country weekend demonstration by Jacky Eyre; St Thomas Church hall, Langley Road, Watford; Wednesday, June 26, 7.30pm; visitors welcome, admission 3. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Bridge Club Deaf Club

    The Harebreaks, north Watford; Monday, June 24, 9.30am. Tel: 01923 720105. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Bricket Wood Art Club

    Meets for a working evening; St Lukes Church hall, South Riding, Bricket Wood; Monday, June 24, 8pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Dawn's Open Garden

    Also cake table, bric-a-brac and plant stall; 2 Winchfield Way, Rickmansworth; Sunday, 23 June, 2pm to 6pm; admission 1.50. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Borehamwood: Give blood for Joely Bear

    People across Hertsmere are being invited to give blood at an event in Borehamwood later this month. The Joely Bear Appeal has organised a donor session at Elstree and Borehamwood Synagogue in Croxdale Road, from 10am until 4.30pm on Sunday, June 30.

  • Borehamwood: Town Festival

    Elstree and Borehamwood Town Festival will launch on Saturday, June 22, with the Festival Parade, which has been shortened to accommodate more people on foot and will be led by the Air Training Corps cadets. This year's route will take in Gateshead Road

  • Radlett: Theatre school

    Young people who would like to improve their singing, dancing and acting skills can attend Youngstars Theatre School at Allum Hall, in Allum Lane, Elstree. Classes are held every Saturday during term time for eight to 16-year-olds. Coralyn Canfor-Dumas020

  • Hertsmere: Art Fun Weeks

    Hertsmere Borough Council's Summer 2002 Art Fun Weeks run from Monday, July 29 until Friday, August 23, and will include T-shirt printing, model making, drama, dance, music and games. The courses will be held in Borehamwood, Shenley and Radlett and will

  • Danny's bike heartbreak over thanks to generous gift

    A FAMILY'S faith in human nature has been restored after kind-hearted Watford residents queued up to help a nine-year-old boy, whose brand new bike was stolen. Danny Phillips was "utterly distraught" after callous thieves took the new £100 bicycle from

  • Borehamwood: Live Bands Gig Night

    Young bands are invited to play at a Live Bands Gig Night on Sunday, June 30, at Boreham Wood Football Club, as part of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council's Festival 2002. Audience tickets, costing 1, can be bought in advance from the council in Brook

  • Solution to crossword 1765

    Published in The Watford Observer, Friday, June 14. Across: 1,7. Sour grapes; 8. Gang; 10. Tip; 11. Rambler; 12. Inn; 13. Ropes; 17. Idler; 19. The; 21. Ransack; 22. Aga; 23. Echo; 25. Rammed; 26. Step. Down: 1. Sugar; 2. Urn; 3. Tramps; 4. Applied; 5

  • Solution to crossword 1766

    Published in The Watford Observer, Friday, June 21. Across: 1. Begonia; 4. Dabs; 6. Unarmed; 9. Abacus; 11. Proud; 12. Nimble; 15. Israel; 18. Cheep; 19. Tender; 21. Derrick; 23. Crew; 24. Carry on. Down: 1. Blueprint; 2. Glamour; 3. Ire; 4. Disarm; 5

  • Corps wants us

    MATURE people with business skills are being recruited in the Watford area by The Experience Corps, a Government-backed scheme to get people aged 50 and over to volunteer their services to benefit their communities. For an information pack, telephone

  • Restored school celebrates with summer fete

    A WATFORD primary school held its first summer fete since it was almost completely destroyed by a fire three years ago. Nin per cent of Knutsford Primary School in Knutsford Avenue was consumed by an electrical fire in November 1999. Although it took

  • Discovering Egypt

    Exhibition based around life and death in Ancient Egypt; Museum of St Albans, Hatfield Road, St Albans; Mondays to Saturdays, 10am to 5pm, Sundays 2pm to 5pm; admission free; until October 20. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Semi-acoustic weekend wind down

    Floor spots welcome, free drink to performers; The Blue Angel Acoustic Caf; The Horn, Victoria Street, St Albans; every Sunday 7.30pm to 10.30pm; admission free. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Ten-point penalty leaves Stanmore rock bottom

    Stanmore 200 Richmond 90-8 Middlesex County League Division One Stanmore have incurred a ten-point deduction for including two players, Dhammika Prassada and Umesh Valjee, who were not registered in time to be eligible. The penalty has left them bottom

  • Striker set to Agogo for Bees

    Peter Shreeves was a happy man last week when he was given the number one target on his transfer shopping list. Junior Agogo, a 22-year-old striker, signed on the dotted line last Friday to give the Bees' forward line a real boost ahead of pre-season

  • Williams: sale was above board

    Former Barnet Council Leader Alan Williams has denied there are any further "skeletons in the closet" following the sale of the freehold of Underhill to Barnet FC. Victor Lyon, the leader of Barnet Council, has instructed council chief executive Leo Boland

  • Police hunt sex attacker

    A TEENAGE girl was sexually assaulted after being forced into a car and driven to woods in Harpenden on Wednesday night (19 June). The teenager was subjected to a terrifying ordeal when she was attacked and made to perform indecent acts. It is the second

  • Failed search for new identity

    FOR some, the appointment of Luca Vialli as manager was a mistake awaiting confirmation; an indulgence in style without substance, entered into by an inexperienced board dazzled by the whiff of fame. Others, judging by the season-ticket sales that first

  • Rembering the famous Ginger Mills

    A FEW weeks ago Nostalgia came relatively up-to-date with some memories of St Albans in the early 1960's from Peter Ridley, courtesy of David Broom of the city museum. As well as characters in the local music scene such as Mac MacLeod and Cuddles the

  • 'Quiet times' for Watford caretaker

    RAY LEWINGTON has no immediate footballing concerns after being put in charge of first team affairs following the dismissal of Luca Vialli. The reserve team manager, who stressed he is only "filling in" as caretaker boss until Vialli's successor is found

  • Ross joins Sarries' All Black revolution

    THE expected New Zealand flavour at Saracens this season was given added spice this week with the capture of former New Zealand Under-21 hooker Joe Ross on a three-year deal. The 26-year-old, who turns 27 in two weeks time, is the third along with Craig

  • Big in Japan

    ENGLAND have won the World Cup in Japan. No, really, they have. Inspired by Pinner Hill Golf Club's Matthew Richardson, the England Boys Golf Team lifted the Junior World Cup at the Kashikojima Country Club in Japan on Thurday, June 20. Making his debut

  • Football heroes live in memory

    THE picture published recently in the Nostalgia section of the St Albans Observer print edition of the Bombers, winners of the 1947 Bingham Cox Cup, struck a chord with Mrs Joan Brewer. Her husband Jack was the captain and stands first on the left in

  • Where is Rosie?

    Dog lover William Ashcroft has not slept for weeks after his pet Chihuahua went missing at the Montrose Festival. Mr Ashcroft, 41, of Rushgrove Avenue, Colindale, said his long-haired pet Rosie was the only thing that has kept him going since his mother

  • Legends take to Shenley crease

    THE famous Lashings Cricket Club visit the Shenley Cricket Centre in Radlett Lane, Shenley, on Sunday, June 23, to face a Shenley Lions select XI with the list of participating players reading more like a who's who of cricket, rather than your average

  • Open University students celebrate success

    On Saturday, June 1, 15 Open University graduates from St Albans gathered for a special ceremony at Ely cathedral where they celebrated receiving their degrees. Mrs Louise Heppell of Kingsbury Avenue, St. Albans, has managed to achieve her BSc (honours

  • Shinkwin's mission to Michigan

    THE precocious talent from Bushey Boxing Club continues to grow from strength to strength after two of its promising fighters gained national recognition this week. Bushey Meads School pupil Liam Shinkwin, the jewel in the crown of the club run by Danny

  • Ricketts dressed for success with new deal

    CLAIRE RICKETTS' attempts to climb up the international tennis rankings look to have been boosted two-fold. Off the court, 17-year-old Ricketts, along with Batchwood Tennis Academy partner Katharine Baker, has recently secured a sponsorship deal with

  • League still seeing blue

    APPROACHING the half-way mark of the Watford Outdoor Veterans Triples Bowls League, defending Division One champions Herts Blue are again proving one of the teams to beat, laying second behind Garston Red with a game in hand. Herts Blue won their first

  • Something to sabre

    WATFORD FENCING CLUB hosted their tenth annual National Open Sabre Tournament on Sunday, June 16, at their new venue, the Princess Marina Sports Complex in the grounds of the Rickmansworth Masonic School for Girls. This year the competition, open to all

  • Argentine Tango

    School of Dancing, 14 Nascot Road, Watford; Thursdays, 8pm, followed by practice session; no partner required, complete beginners welcome. Tel. 01923 210016 for further details. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Choosy thieves steal bedding plants

    THIEVES ruined a flower display planted to celebrate the Golden Jubilee by digging up the blue and white blooms and leaving the red ones behind. The choosy thieves took 22 boxes of bedding plants, which had only been planted the week before, and six established

  • Where are Ray and Dorothy Middleton?

    CAN anyone supply information as to the whereabouts of Ray and Dorothy Middleton, formerly of 9, Little Oxhey Lane, Oxhey, Herts? They had a son, Michael, who would be aged in his late 50's by now. Dorothy's maiden name was Loader and Ray was Canadian

  • XRR Photographic Society

    Meets for photographic demonstration by various speakers and competitions; Williams Hall, Seventh-day Adventist Church, St Albans Road, Garston; Wednesdays, 7.45pm; new members and visitors welcome. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Chorleywood frustrated by stubborn Stags

    CHORLEYWOOD second XI were left frustrated in their attempts to collect their second Division Four win of the season by a negative West Herts second XI side on Saturday, June 15. Chorleywood won the toss and elected to bat, but were soon in trouble at

  • North Watford Air Rifle and Pistol Club

    Welcomes safe and enthusiastic new members to shoot indoors at six yards and ten metres range; Christ Church hall, St Albans Road, north Watford; Wednesdays 7.30pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Who knows William Frederick Hunt?

    WILLIAM FREDERICK HUNT, who was killed in 1921, was a former Hertfordshire constable who joined the Royal Engineers during the Great War and was commissioned into the Royal Enniskilling Fusiliers in 1916. After the war in 1920, he joined the Royal Irish

  • Garston Townswomen's Guild

    Meets at Our Lady and St Michael's Church Hall, Crown Rise, Garston; every Tuesday, 7.45pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Five-wicket Doling delights in Wood win

    A SPLENDID bowling display ensured Division Three's Northwood Town romped to victory by 48 runs over a depleted and out-of-sorts Langleybury second XI on Saturday, June 15. In damp conditions, Town were asked to bat first on an early, tricky wicket by

  • Popular artist and teacher dies

    A POPULAR local artist and art teacher from Bushey has died. Mr Arnold Fletcher died on Friday, June 14. He was 81. Mr Fletcher was best known in the area as head of the art department at Bushey Meads School, in Coldharbour Lane, Bushey, where he worked

  • The lock and key in the Queen's Arms

    WHAT was the significance of the lock and key hanging up in the Queen's Arms or was this in the pub of the same name in St Albans Road? If you know the answer, please e-mail Oliver Phillips at Oliphillips@london.newsquest.co.uk or phone him on 01923 216365

  • Hemel maintain rich vein of form

    HEMEL HEMPSTEAD second XI's rich vein of form continued as they ended Abbots Langley's four-match unbeaten run with a 73-run victory in Division Two on Saturday, June 15. Batting first, all of Hemel's top six got into double figures, but no-one went on

  • Larger vehicles will not be targeted, says council

    OWNERS of large cars, people carriers and 4x4s will not be targeted by East Herts Council car park inspectors, despite a change in the rules stating that vehicles weighing more than 1,525kg can be given on-the-spot fines if found to be causing inconvenience

  • Town downed despite third-wicket heriocs

    WATFORD TOWN's inconsistent form continues to halt their Division One progress as they went down to Harpenden in a match that was well within their grasp on Saturday, June 15. Harpenden, asked to bat first by Town skipper Khalid Manzoor, looked set to

  • Does anyone remember Joe Lyons'?

    ON the subject of restaurants, Watford was well-blessed with them. Apart from the ones already the subject of questions, there was Lyons, (Joe Lyons' as we called it). Does anyone remember that? If you can help, please e-mail Oliver Phillips at Oliphillips

  • Bedmond Women's Institute

    Meets at the Bedmond Village Hall, Bedmond; every Friday, 7.30pm. New members are always welcome. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Extension work to go ahead

    PLANS to extend facilities at Mountfitchet High School in Stansted are set to get underway later this year. The first stage of the development is a £2.2m sports centre, work on which is due to start during the summer holidays. The school also plans to

  • Stags sink Saints to go top

    WEST HERTS signalled their Home Counties Premier League Division Two East title intentions with a 31-run win over high-flying St Albans at Park Avenue on Saturday, June 15, that propelled them to the Division Two East summit for the first time this season

  • Hospitals in old Watford

    THE late Mr John Gloag, a former resident of Watford Abbeyfield Society, wrote down his memories before he died. Here he writes about hospitals. The Victoria Cottage Hospital situated in Vicarage Road was built in 1885 and served the needs of the citizens

  • Golden young-stars in a school daze

    WOODSIDE STADIUM once again played host to the Herts Schools Athletics Championships on Saturday, June 15, with medals, and, more importantly, a chance to qualify for the National Schools Championships, up for grabs. More than 1,500 youngsters, from all

  • The boy at the cinema

    IN The Watford Observer, April 12, we published a picture supplied by Mr George Reid, The Brow, Garston, asking who the young boy in the photograph at The Plaza cinema, St Albans Road is. MRS ANN SIMPSON, of The Meridan Estate, Garston, has the answer

  • Harriers raise the bar

    ALTHOUGH British Athletics may be thriving on the track, with the forthcoming Manchester Commonwealth Games boosting the popularity of the sport like never before, the infrastructure of athletics appears to be falling apart at the seams. The likes of

  • Up in the air

    ANOTHER runway at Stansted airport may not be the best way to meet demand for airport capacity, according to Harlow MP Bill Rammell. A national newspaper has reported that the west Essex airport could get an additional runway as part of Government plans

  • Watford Joggers find form

    WATFORD JOGGERS graced the St Albans Half Marathon with a brace of personal bests on Sunday, June 16, from the four runners. Paul Johnson ran a nine-minute best over all age groups in his inaugral event as a vet, clocking 1.35.48. Heather Mitchell was

  • Bowden excels in trial by television

    ADAM BOWDEN enhanced his reputation with two outstanding performances in the Commonwealth Games Trials at the magnificent new City of Manchester Stadium last weekend (June 15/16). The 19-year-old international, ranked only 14th of the 23 elite entries

  • Song Session Group

    Every Monday, traditional and contemporary songs, everyone welcome as singers or spectators; The Bull, High Street, Redbourn; 8.30pm; admission 1; more details from John on 01923 404566. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Sunday Open Mic Night

    Every Sunday, house band plus guests, floorspots, players and singers welcome; The Portland Arms, Portland Street, St Albans; 8.30pm. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Nick Page Trio

    Melodic jazz and bossa nova every Friday in the bar; Batchwood Golf and Tennis Club, Batchwood Drive, St Albans; 8.30pm; entry free. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Traditional and Contemporary Folk and Blues

    A warm welcome for all every Thursday evening at the Hollybush Folk Club; informal singers night; Old School Room, Hollybush pub, Church End, Redbourn; 8.15pm to 11.15pm; admission 2 on the door; further information on 07710 471862 or 07850 163241. June

  • Orbital Dance Club

    Ballroom dancing; Orbital Community Centre, Haines Way, Watford; new members welcome; every Tuesday, 2pm to 4pm. Tel: 01923 681054. June 21, 2002 21:00

  • Tea Dance

    YMCA, Charter Place, Watford; mainly for senior citizens; every Thursday, 2pm to 4pm; admission 1.50. June 21, 2002 21:00