Residents show support for proposal for new museum

Residents are behind plans to build a new museum in St Albans city centre, research has shown. A survey of museum visitors has shown that people want a more participatory and social site with both permanent and temporary exhibits. St Albans District Council will use the findings to support its application for Heritage Lottery Funding. Read more here

Father Christmas to make an early visit to St Albans

Father Christmas and his elves will be taking a break from their festive preparations on Friday 21st Dec (Tomorrow)  to visit St Albans. Face painters and balloon artists will also be entertaining crowds at St Albans City Station between 1pm and 3.30pm. Children will be able to meet Santa and tell him any last minute Christmas wishes before receiving a free present.

Taken from St Albans & Harpenden Review

CVS Membership Deal

We have so much to offer community and voluntary organisations in St Albans & District!

If you like what you see, why not join the CVS? It's easy and great value!

We are now offering membership to April 2014 for £30.

Why not take advantage of this fabulous deal?!

(Membership normally costs £20 a year).

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing our knowledge and services with you. More about reasons for joining here

St Albans commuters urged to help a child at Christmas

A community project in St Albans is urging commuters to dig deep and donate a present to give to to a vulnerable child just in time for Christmas.

Alban Play Station community group is launching a toy drive to raise awareness of Home Start, a charity dedicated to supporting families with young children, who need some extra support during difficult times.

Volunteers will be spreading Christmas cheer in both St Albans City Station and Harpenden train station by handing out sweets and gift tags on Friday, December 14, between 4pm and 7.30pm.

Read more

Children's free drama workshops

Aspiring movie stars will be able to have a go at acting at FREE workshops in St Albans this weekend.

The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy will be offering free drama sessions for children in Westminster Lodge on Saturday. The workshops will run between noon and 3pm.

For more information contact Amy on 0771 0171851.

From St Albans & Harpenden Review

New community cafe in St Albans

A new community cafe in St Albans opened its doors for the first time today. Mayor Eileen Harris and the Archdeacon of St Albans Jonathon Smith officially opened the cafe in St Julian’s Church in Abbots Avenue.

Councillor Harris said: “I am very pleased to support this new community café.
“It will meet a real need in the Cottonmill area for a welcoming place where people can meet and socialise.

“I hope many people will enjoy meeting old and new friends here.”
The cafe, which offers wi-fi access, will open every Thursday between 10am and 3pm.

Taken from St Albans & Harpenden review

Things to do in November

The Big Lunch have come up with 8 things to do this month using the first letters of the word "November" find out what they are here

New information signs to go up in city centre

Visitors to St Albans will be able to explore the city easier, thanks to new information signs.
The district council will install signs in St Peters Street highlighting the main historic landmarks.
If the scheme is successful, more will be rolled out across the city centre next year.

Read more

Passengers could benefit from computer tool designed to deal with FCC train delays

Passengers travelling on First Capital Connect train services may benefit from a new computer tool designed to speed up the time it takes to deal with failed trains.

Engineers at FCC has developed a computer tool, which could lead to fewer cancellations and - if necessary - the quicker evacuation of passengers.

There is hopes the new system will save 45 hours worth of delays in its first six months of introduction.

Read more here

Issues affecting oldest and youngest residents discussed at conference

Representatives from community groups have met to discuss the district’s oldest and younger residents.

The annual Community Conference, which is organised St Albans and District Strategic Partnership, was held on November 1 with the theme Bridging the Generation Gap.

A host of guest speakers gave presentations on a number of issues including health and housing at the event, which took place in Rothamsted Conference Centre in Harpenden.

Councillor Julian Daly, chair of the St Albans and District Strategic Partnership, said: “This conference was aimed at developing intergenerational understanding.

“It brought together residents and community groups to discuss how issues affecting younger and older people may be overcome.

“The Strategic Partnership will now consider taking some of the ideas that emerged forward in its work in the community.”

Taken from St Albans & Harpenden Review

Advice centres planned to help residents with benefit changes

Advice surgeries could be held across the district next year to help residents understand the changes to the benefit system.

The district council plans to set up the service to assist the 2,500 people that the changes will affect.
Next year the Government will alter the council tax benefit system.

Plans to set up the advice surgeries will be discussed by the council’s cabinet on Wednesday, November 14.

Read more

Face to Face Event

St Albans Faith and Culture Enterprise (FACE) Invite you to: Face to Face

An event for the voice of faith and culture groups to be heard.

On Sunday 18th November 2012 From 2.30 pm

At Verulam School, Brampton Road, St Albans AL1 4PR

 

Dates for Christmas light switch on in Harpenden announced

With the festive season approaching fast Harpenden Town Council is preparing to brighten up the streets with Christmas lights.

The annual switch on will take place in the town centre on Sunday, November 25.
Southdown will follow on Friday, November 30 and Batford on Sunday, December 2.
Each area of the town will display a locally grown tree covered in festive lights.
Harpenden’s town mayor Nicola Linacre said: “This year our lights will be bigger and better than ever.

“We have gradually improved the lights every year based on feedback from our residents."

“Last year we had an estimated 10,000 people at the town centre switch on, making it the most successful community event in Harpenden, so come along and enjoy the celebrations.”


From St Albans & Harpenden Review

Hotel to host Christmas fair to raise cash for charity

A Christmas fair will be held in a Chiswell Green hotel this month to raise cash for two charities.
The organisation Doing it for Charity is holding the fundraiser to collect much needed funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Willow Foundation.

More here

Harpenden event will benefit Grove House and Children with Cancer UK

Women in Harpenden are joining forces to organise a Christmas gift fair to raise money for charity.
Cash collected during the fundraiser, which will be held on November 23 and 24, will be given to Breakthrough Breast Cancer and Harpenden Seniors Club.

The event, which is now in its 38th year, is being set up by members of the Harpenden Ladies Circle.
More than 50 stalls will be set up in Harpenden Public Halls selling a variety of gifts including ceramics, jewellery, accessories and cards.

There will also be a tombola featuring prizes donated by local businesses.

Last year the fair raised more than £12,700 for Grove House hospice and Children with Cancer UK.

From St Albans & Harpenden Review

St Albans Polish Association invites you to St Andrew's Night Celebrations

St Albans Polish Association invities you to St Andrew's Night Celebrations (known as "Andrzejki") on Saturday 10th November at 7.30pm, at The Townsend Tennis and Bowls Club in St Albans (8 Waverley Road, AL3 5PA).

Learn about Polish traditions and play fortune telling games accompanied by Polish food and music. The event is supported by St Albans City Council.

Tickets are £7 per person and need to be purchased in advance. Book tickets by email here. Please state your name, contact number and number of people in your party.

Have your say on improving Harpenden Town Centre

Residents are invited to come along and have their say on how Harpenden Town Centre can be improved. Members of the Harpenden Society have been looking at how Harpenden Town Centre could be improved for the benefit of all members of the community.

Residents and businesses are invited to the public meeting to learn about plans to reinforce the town's identity, enliven the High Street, improve the quality of community facilities and better access.

Tim Riley, Director of RCKa Architects, will present the proposals, where he has identified nine sites in the High Street for possible development.

There will also be a chance to debate over the future of the Public Hall and offer suggestions for shopping facilities, a ‘Park Café’ in Rothamsted Park and parking.

The meeting, Suggestions for a Harpenden Town Centre Community Plan, will take place on Thursday October, 25 in Park Hall, Leyton Road at 7:30pm until 9:30pm.

For more information contact 01582 760625 or visit www.harpendensociety.org

From St Albans & Harpenden Review

Call to give unused toys and games to help needy children

With the festive season drawing closer, residents are being asked to make donations to help disadvantaged children this Christmas.

Access Self Storage in St Albans has launched a Christmas toy appeal in aid of The Children’s Society.

It is asking people to donated unused games and toys that can be sold in the charity’s shops to raise cash.

Access Self Storage St Albans store manager Neil Hutchinson said: "Last year was such a success as we had over 100 gifts donated. "Hopefully we can do even better this year."

More here

Nominations open for Hertfordshire Wildlife Trust's 2012 Volunteer Awards

A wildlife trust is on the lookout for people who have made a difference to nature in their area.
Nominations for Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust’s 2012 Volunteer Awards are now open.
Organisers are hoping to find people who have completed practical work, raised the trust’s profile, or simply encouraged people to enjoy the outdoors.

Anyone who has volunteered for the trust over the last year can be nominated.
Nominate someone you know here

St Albans & Harpenden Review

BIG ENERGY SAVING WEEK MONDAY 22 to SATURDAY 27 OCTOBER 2012

Citizens Advice is running Big Energy Saving Week(22-27 October 2012)- a national campaign to help people cut their fuel bills and get all the financial support they are entitled to. St Albans District Citizens Advice Bureau will be holding a number of events to help people save money on their energy bills before winter kicks in. Please see below for details.

Advisers will be helping people check they are gefting the best deal from their energy company and are on the cheapest way to pay; and explaining how they might be able to save more money by switching suppliers. Plus they'll also be giving energy saving tips and talking about help available to insulate your home.

The drive comes on the back of the success of the first Big Energy Week in January this year which gave advice to over 75,000 people nationally.

This time Citizens Advice has joined forces with Energy Saving Trust to give people expert tips and information on how to cut the amount of energy they use.

Big Energy Saving Week is funded by the big six energy companies and supported by consumer groups, the Government and Ofgem.

Details of Events:

Tuesday 23rd October, 9.30am - 1pm , St Albans Central Library

Wednesday 24th October, 9.30am - 1pm, StAlbans Civic Centre

Friday2 6thO ctober,9 .30am- 1pm,T he Co-operative Supermarket, Southdown, Harpenden

Local Demorcracy Week - This Week!

Young and older people in St Albans encouraged to bridge the gap in generation

A group dedicated to bridging the gap between young and older people together in St Albans is inviting residents to come along and learn more.

Residents and community groups are invited to attend the annual Community Conference with a theme of “bridging the generation gap - celebrating younger and older people in the District”.

There will also be an ‘Active Listening’ session where organisations will raise issues on economic sustainability,inclusion and equalities,community safety,health and well being, environment, and young and older people.

The community conference will take place on Thursday, 1, November at the Rothamsted Conference Centre in Harpenden from 10am to 2pm.

Read more here

Proposals for new council tax support scheme to be discussed at public meeting

A new council tax support scheme which will replace the current council tax benefit in St Albans will be discussed at a public meeting next week.

The public meeting will take place on Thursday, 18, October in the council’s offices at the Civic Centre, St Peter’s Street from 7pm where feedback will be received following a consultation on a proposed new system of council tax discounts.

Find out more here

Town Hall to host arts and craft market

An arts and crafts market will be held in the city centre this weekend.
St Albans Town Hall will welcome 40 stalls on Saturday selling a variety of gifts and goods.
The market will run from 10am until 4pm.

Found in St Albans & Harpenden Review

Redbourn prepares for annual craft fair

The horticultural society in Redborn will hold its annual craft fair later this month.
A variety of stalls selling jewellery, toys, ceramics and other items will be set up in the Village Hall.

Visitors will be in with a chance of getting their hands on a selection of prizes in a raffle.

The fair will be open between 10.30am and 5pm on Saturday, October 20 and 11am and 4.30pm on Sunday, October 21.

Taken from St Albans & Harpenden Review

St Albans Dragon’s Apprentice Challenge begins

Teenagers across the district will be testing their business skills over the next few weeks in an apprentice competition.

This year’s St Albans Dragon’s Apprentice Challenge has been launched.
In total 27 teams of Year 12 pupils will attempt to set up businesses over the next five months to make cash for charities. Read more 

Round Table on the lookout for new members

The district’s Round Table is on the lookout for new members to join its ranks as it prepares for its annual Christmas fundraising. St Albans Round Table is open to men younger than 45 who live in the area.

Find out more

Musicians prepare for Harpenden Rocks concert

Local musicians will take to the stage in Harpenden next month to raise cash for charity.

Hubcap Moon and The Low Laps are set to perform at this year’s Harpenden Rocks concert.

The fundraiser, which will take place in the Royal British Legion in Leyton Road, has been organised to raise money Macmillan Cancer Support and The Neil Murphy Sailing Trust.

Freddie Mercury impersonator Steve Curtis will take the headline spot at the event on Saturday, October 6.

During the evening there will also be a raffle and auction with prizes including an iPad, a round of golf and a signed rugby ball.

The Neil Murphy Sailing Trust is a new charity that was set up in memory of a man who was killed in a motorbike crash.

His partner Madlen King created the charity based on his passion for sailing, and it now works to provide courses for young people who would not normally have the opportunity.

Tickets, which are £5 in advance and £7.50 in the door, are available at www.harpenden-lions.co.uk.

Article taken from here

Residents in St Albans invited to drink coffee to raise money towards the battle against cancer

Residents in St Albans are being invited to come along and drink coffee at a coffee morning next week to raise money towards the battle against cancer.

More details here

Social Media Course in Libraries

Social media is becoming increasingly more popular and useful as a platform for communicating, engaging and staying in touch with people. Recognising this, from September Hertfordshire Libraries are going to be offering training sessions to those who want to find out more about social networking through the use of websites such as Twitter and Facebook. These latest additions to the range of taster sessions on offer are aimed at those with little of no experience of using a computer. There will also be one to one training sessions for those wanting to get to grips with basic computing.
Find out more, either for yourself, friends or family here

This post was taken from here

Free painting, exercise and holistic therapy sessions for older people in St Albans next month

A free event for older people at St Albans Town Hall to mark UK Older People’s Day next month. Older people are invited to join in the fun and learn about activities that are being run across the district for their age group.

Read more here

The free event will take place from 10am to 2pm on Monday, October,1, at the Town Hall, St Albans, organised by St Albans District Council.

Lunch and limited transport are being provided for older people attending the Older People’s Day event and must be booked in advance by calling Nicky Flynn on 01727 814602 or on 07770 701801 or by emailing nicky.flynn@stalbans.gov.uk

Aspiring film makers in St Albans given the chance to showcase their work in the city's first ever film festival

Residents in St Albans can look forward to the city’s first ever film festival encouraging aspiring film makers to showcase their work planned to reel out next year.

Read more

Vote for your favourite restaurant, café, pub, bar and local producer

Voting is now open for this year’s St Albans Food and Drink Festival.
Residents can now choose their favourite restaurant, café, pub, bar and local producer in the district.
Mayor of St Albans Councillor Eileen Harris said: "The festival is now in its fifth year and is a wonderful event that showcases a fantastic range of food and drink produced in St Albans."
The winner of each category will be announced during the festival, which begins on Wednesday, September 26.

  See the nominated venues here

Countdown to St Albans Food and Drink Festival

Visitors can tickle their taste buds at the St Albans Food and Drink Festival, which gets underway this month to celebrate the food and drink scene in the city.

Now in its fifth year, the festival promises to give residents a chance to experience diverse tastes during the festival events.

The festival will kick off on Wednesday, September 26, with the city's annual beer festival, which promises 350 different British real ales in the Alban Arena .
 
Read more here

 

Course set up to help adults with children with special needs will begin next week in St Albans school

The seven week course will start on Wednesday (September 12) to help parents with a child or children who have special needs.

The aim of the course is to allow parents to share their feelings and experiences and to help with the challenges they might have.

Find out more here

The course will take place in Fleetville Junior School, in Hatfield Road, from 7pm to 9pm.

To book a place on this course call Sharon Lawton on 01992 446051 or email sharon.lawton@natural-flair.co.uk

Don't lose your right to vote ...

... in the Police and Crime Commissioner elections on 15th November 2012. Residents have until October 31 to fill in their voter registration forms and return them to St Albans District Council.
Anyone who has not received a form or has lost it should call the council’s electoral services office on 01727 819294 or email elections@stalbans.gov.uk

Chance to have your say on Harpenden library plans

Residents in Harpenden will have the chance to give their opinions on plans to move Harpenden library to a new location.

A planning application has been put forward by Hertfordshire County Council to move the library in Vaughn Road to a shop building in 27 High Street, which used to be an Argos store.
Members of the community have until September 6 to comment on the plans. Read more here

Make a comment on this planning application.

Volunteers Needed for Giant Monopoly

The St Albans Giant Monopoly event is now in its 5th year. It involves participants visiting up to 20 different checkpoints around the City Centre and Verulamium Park and taking part in different activities at the checkpoints. Last year we had 1150 participants and this year we are hoping for 1250.

St Albans Giant Monopoly is taking place on Sunday 9th September from 11am to 5pm.

Volunteers are needed to help to man some of the check points at landmarks along the rout from 10.30am to 5.30pm. Prior to the Game Day, you will help with leafleting in the City Centre, as well as attending a briefing meeting at SAASH's offices. So come along, volunteer, get involved in the community, get to know your City better and participate in the most exciting project of the Autumn!

Volunteers need to bring clothing appropriate to the weather, e.g.sunscreen/waterproofs/brollies/wellies!

For more information, contact the St Albans District Volunteer Centre on 01727 852657. You can e-mail volunteering@cvsstalbans.org.uk visit www.cvsstalbans.org.uk

Beach volleyball courts for Verulamium Park

Now that the games are over, some of the sand used in Horse Guards Parade will be moved to Verulamium Park to create new beach volleyball courts.
Councillor Mike Wakely, portfolio holder for sports, leisure and heritage at the council, said: "We are pleased that the council’s bid has been successful and that Verulamium Park has been chosen as one of the six venues to receive the Olympic sand.

Read more

Keech Hospice store needs helpers

A charity shop in St Albans is on the lookout for volunteers who can give up a few hours of their time every week.

The Keech Hospice store in High Street needs new helpers to assist with the day to day running of the shop.

There are shop floor and stock room opportunities available, and shifts would involve working the tills, sorting through and organising donations.

Anyone interested in offering a helping hand should call Kim, the store manager, on 01727 895790.

Taken from St Albans & Harpenden Review

St Albans Giant Monopoly

Sunday 9th September from 11.00am to 5.00pm
Entry is FREE!
See the flyer here

Libraries to give introductory courses in social media

Residents in south west Hertfordshire will soon be able to be trained how to use social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter at their local library.

Introductory lessons in social media will be available alongside basic computing sessions from next month.

The courses will be aimed at people with little or no computing experience. Find out more here

Visitors invited to Heartwood Forest event by Woodland Trust

Bird box making, willow weaving and a teddy bears' picnic are just some of the things that will be on offer at this year’s Heartwood Festival. The Woodland Trust is holding the fourth annual event at Heartwood Forest, Sandridge, on Saturday, August 25. Read more

For more information visit http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/en/support-us/appeals/england/heartwood-forest/events/Pages/coming-soon.aspx

Volunteer from St Albans nominated for YOPEY award

A student who has taken time away from her university studies to volunteer at a hospice in St Albans has been nominated for an award.

Ashwini Ponnampalam, 19, who is studying law at Cambridge University, entered herself for the University of Hertfordshire Young People of the Year award, (YOPEY), which highlights the hard work of young people in their community. Continue reading

Ashwini Ponnampalam

Police on the lookout for new special constables

Hertfordshire Constabulary is on the lookout for new special constables to help look after some of the county’s rural areas.

As part of a recruitment drive to add 150 new specials, the force is looking for people with knowledge of the countryside.

Read more

Special Constable Kate Solomon

Harpenden volunteers help at Olympic Games

Hundreds of people from across the world have descended on Harpenden to volunteer their time to help the London 2012 Olympic Games run smoothly.

http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/news/9852833.Harpenden_volunteers_help_at_Olympic_Games/?ref=eb

Sign up for this year’s Herts 10K Challenge

Runners across the county can now sign up for this year’s Herts 10K Challenge.
The seventh annual race, which raises cash for Grove House, will take place on Sunday, October 14.
Participants can walk or run the course around Rothamsted Research in Harpenden.
To sign up for the event, which costs £17, call 01442 820741 or email herts10k@irgh.org.uk
For more information visit www.herts10k.com

Taken from the St Albans and Harpenden Review

Your Right to Vote

Concert in aid of Home-Start

On Saturday 8 September 2012
7.30pm at St Saviours Church, Sandpit Lane,
St Albans, AL1 4DF. Tickets £12.50
More info and a booking form here

Local Hospice Charity Seeks Chair of Trustees

Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care (IRGH) offers specialist 24/7 hospice at home care.
IRGH is seeking a new volunteer Chair with experience of leading a significant business or charity to lead the team of trustees and be an ambassador for the organisation. 

More here

Event at Butterfly World for bereaved children

A bereavement network in St Albans has held its first open day for children at Butterfly World.

The St Albans and District Bereavement Network invited families who have recently suffered the loss of a loved one to the centre on Saturday. Read more

Sky Ride Local rides taking place on Sundays

Free community bike rides encouraging people to explore St Albans got started at the weekend.
Cyclists of all ages from beginners to experienced were invited to get out on urban and rural routes, led by British Cycling-trained ride leaders.

Sky Ride Local began on Sunday (July 15) and will take place every Sunday until October.
For more information, please visit www.goskyride.com

Taken from St Albans and Harpenden Review

Could you support stroke victims?

St Albans & Harpenden Stroke Club are looking for volunteers. If you would like to help people regain their confidence and find means of communicating again, then you are just the person who would enjoy volunteering at the St Albans and Harpenden Stroke Club. No special qualifications or training required, just a caring disposition, a sense of humour and a willingness to be CRB checked.
More here

Former St Albans Student visited school to show off Olympic Torch

A former St Albans pupil has returned to her old school to show off the Olympic Torch she carried during the relay.

Dressed in full torchbearer uniform, Katherine Deal met with year seven children at Beaumont School on Thursday. More here

Train users asked their views on Thameslink service

The district council has set up a Working Group to help develop the response to a government consultation about the franchise. Read  more

As part of the group’s work residents are being asked to send in their views and ideas for improvements.

Suggestions should be sent to Catherine Comfort, Scrutiny Support Officer, Civic Centre, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3LD by July 24.

Residents can also email their thoughts to scrutiny@stalbans.gov.uk

Olympic Torch runner in St Albans

With local girl Caitlin Hutton

Do you enjoy organising events or fundraising activities?

St Albans Bereavement network needs an Events Co-ordinator. Find out more

Hundreds gather for annual community sports day

More than 300 people gathered at Westminster Lodge on Sunday for the eighth annual event, which was run by Churches Together in St Albans and the district council. Read more

Jobs Fair

11th July at Oaklands College. More information here

Redbourn residents asked to take part in survey on the village’s future

Residents in Redbourn have the opportunity to have their say on what they want for the future of the village. The parish council has joined forced with residents’ focus groups to compile a survey, which includes sections on facilities, parking and recycling. To complete the survey visit www.redbournparishcouncil.gov.uk

From St Albans & Harpenden Review: http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/news/9791148.Redbourn_residents_asked_to_take_part_in_survey_on_the_village___s_future/?ref=eb

Friends of the Earth to hold public meeting

The St Albans branch of Friends of the Earth is holding a public meeting to debate environmentally sustainable solutions to economic problems in the city on Tuesday 3rd July in the evening.
Find out more here

Would you like to volunteer at St Albans CVS?

They are looking for volunteer for four different roles. Find out what they are here

St Albans Folk Festival

This fun fortnight began on Monday. More ...

New Harpenden Website for Mums

The website was created  by four local mum's. Aimed at mothers and grandparents, it covers the whole of childhood, from antenatal to offspring leaving home. Read more

See the Mums website here

National Neighbourhood Watch Week

This is National Neighbourhood Watch Week1(6th-24th June)

http://www.thebiglunchers.com/index.php/2012/06/national-neighbourhood-watch-week/

Voluntees and Sponsors needed for It's a Knockout

Could you help Crohn's and Colitis UK with their It’s a Knockout Event on 22nd July at the Old Albanians Rugby Club in St Albans? They need volunteers to help out on the day as well as companies to sponsor the event and teams of people to participate.
Contact: Bev.Loczy@CrohnsandColitis.org.uk

Redbourn's Torch Relay

Redbourn held its own version of the Olympic torch relay this weekend to start the countdown to this year’s games. More than 60 members of the community were selected to carry the flame around the village on Saturday. Continued here

Meet your County Councillors for Harpenden

Bernard Lloyd and Teresa Heritage will a hold drop-in session at Park Hall in Leyton Road on Saturday, June 30, to hear how residents would like to see the £180,000 available spent. Read more

Are you between 16 & 19 and thinking about your future?

Come along to a Volunteer Speed Matching event at cafe Nes, the one next to the Alban Arena on 19th June from 6:00 to 8:00

 Contact Emily emily@cvsstalbans.org.uk 01727 852657 to book your place.

Make a difference in your community

Use your postcode to open up a bright new way of looking at life where you live with Your Square Mile

Make isolation History today

The world's eyes will be on the UK over the next four months of the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics. What kind of society will they see? More

St Albans is a beacon of fun for Royal Jubilee

A DIAMOND Jubilee beacon will be lit on the roof of the St Albans Town Hall in St Albans as the city centre hosts a massive street party on Monday. Read more

Thinking about volunteering over the summer

Check out our summer and short term volunteering opportunites here

College tutor from Harpenden chosen to carry Paralympic torch

A COLLEGE tutor from Harpenden, who dedicates her time to supporting students with disabilities, has been chosen to take part in the Paralympic torch relay. More here

Radlett Brownies make their own bunting ahead of Diamond Jubilee celebrations

Brownies have been getting in party spirit ahead of the Diamond Jubilee by making their own bunting which will be put up next week. Read more

Help set allowances for St Albans district councillors

VOLUNTEERS interested local government can help set the level of allowances councillors receive for their work.

St Albans District Council is inviting people living or working in the district to become members of the Independent Remuneration Panel.

Find out more

Verulamium Museum in St Albans to celebrate fashion from the 50s

FASHION from the 50s, the decade Queen Elizabeth II came to the throne, will be the focus of a special history event at Verulamium Museum next month. Read more

Staff and parents from Redbourn school chosen to carry Paralympic flame

A GROUP of teachers and parents from a Redbourn school have been chosen to play an prominent part in the Paralympic torch relay. More here

Hats for Headway Day

Help Headway Hertfordshire by wearing a hat for a day on Friday 18th May. Make a donation or raise sponsorship.

Headway is a charity dedicated to supporting people affected by brain injury. Every year they run Action for Brain Injury Week, which has Hats for Headway at its climax. This year, there is a particular focus on raising awareness of the challenging and vital role of family and carers and the huge impact that brain injury can have upon their lives too. You can read more about the work they do here.

Make your view heard

Make your view heard about Health & Wellbeing services.
Fill in a survey here

Young People's chance to make their mark on local politics

Herts1125 is a new initiative for youths aged between 11 and 25 years old who live, work or study in the Hertfordshire area to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives. More here

Creative Olympics Exhibition

Date:	04 to 08 May 2012
Location:	The Town Hall, Market Place, St Peter's Street, St Albans AL3 5DJ

The Creative Olympics Exhibition

Opening night Friday 4th May 18:00-21:00
Saturday 5th May 10:00-17:00
Sunday 6th May 12:00-16:00
Bank Holiday Monday 7th May 10:00-16:00
Tuesday 8th May 10:00-17:00

FREE entry
Work will be for sale by auction bids with 10% of the proceeds going to
Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care

School’s annual summer fair

Go-karting, bouncy castles and karate demonstrations are just some of the activities that will be on offer at Bernards Heath Junior School’s annual summer fair.
The school is inviting residents to get involved in this year’s event, which will be held on May 26.
To make the event a success, organisers are currently on the lookout for prizes which can be raffled off the visitors.

If you are able to donate raffle prizes or sponsor the event, or if you would like to attend on the day, please contact the school on 01727 856 262.

http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/news/9676238.Preparations_begin_for_school___s_annual_summer_fair/?ref=eb

Fitness and fat loss boot camps will help Motor Neurone Association

A woman from St Albans has decided to run a charity boot camp that will get residents fit while raising cash for a good cause. More here

Diamond Jubilee campaign to encourage wave of volunteers

A Diamond Jubilee campaign to encourage people to give an hour of their time to help good causes could see Britain's biggest mobilisation of volunteers since the Second World War.
Read more here

Walks 2012

Raise awareness and funds for Crohn’s and Colitis UK, on a fun day out with family, friends and even the dog!

More information and a registraion form here

Just one week left to apply for Diamond Jubilee street party

Those planning street parties to celebrate the Queen’s forthcoming Diamond Jubilee have just a week to submit their applications.

The door for applications slams shut next Tuesday, May 1, for the extended bank holiday weekend celebrating the landmark in June.

Hertfordshire County Council will not be charging communities to close residential roads in the county for street parties on either Sunday 3, Monday 4 or Tuesday June 5.

To apply for a road closure to hold a street party in celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, go to www.hertsdirect.org/diamondjubilee.

http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/news/9666547.Just_one_week_left_to_apply_for_Diamond_Jubilee_street_party/?ref=eb

Runners Needed for Fun Run

http://www.stalbansreview.co.uk/news/9662259.Runners_needed_for_Wheathampstead_family_fun_run/?ref=eb

Visit to County Hall

As part of the Getting Involved project you are invited to County Hall for an introduction to the County Council. 

On Thursday 17th May from 10am to 2pm

There will be a presentation from the new Chief Executive, John Wood and there will be someone from the County information unit who will share what they believe they know about St Albans and it’s communities.  You will also have the opportunity to meet and hear from your County Councillor.

Please note that transport is not available and places are limited.  If you are interested please contact Nicky Flynn at nicky.flynn@stalbans.gov.uk

St Albans church to host free community open day

A CHURCH in St Albans will throw open its doors next weekend to the public when it will offer a number of free activities - from zumba dancing and pizza making to gardening advice and the chance to swap home-grown seedlings there will be something on offer for everyone at St Paul's Church.
The community day will be held on Saturday, April 21, between 10.30am to 3.30pm, at the church in Blandford Road.
For more information click here or telephone 01727 846 281.

Giant Jubilee Street Party in Radlett

Street Party to be held on Sunday 3rd June. More about it here

Verulmium Park fun day promotes clubs and sport

Circus skills, zumba and tai chi are just some of the activities that residents will be able to try out at a fun day in St Albans this weekend. Find out more here

Community Sport Day

Community fun day, a great family day out. On 1st July starting at 12.00pm at Westminster Lodge Track, St Albans. Invitation and booking form

Diamond Jubilee Website

The official Diamond Jubilee website was launched by Buckingham Palace on 6th February to mark 60 years since The Queen's Accession to the Throne. The website features the latest news, photographs and announcements about the Diamond Jubilee, along with historical information about The Queen's 60 year reign. Use the website to send a congratulatory message to The Queen and to find out when there's a Royal engagement near you. Visit the site

Get Involved

Youth Volunteers Week in St Albans is from 3rd to 6th April - Look out for our market stall on 4th April. Find out about volunteering. See a volunteer adviser or join a workshop. More here

Team raised £3,006 for St Albans City Youth

Six teams of Hertfordshire students gathered at the University of Hertfordshire to mark the 2012 Dragons' Apprentice scheme. Read more

The winning team, Athena

Interested in becoming a Sporting Hero?

Come along to the St Albans Sports Makers Workshop. Learn new skills, hear inspirational speakers, get a FREE Adidas polo shirt and a FREE bag.

Monday 26th March. From 6.30 to 8.30. At The Commitee Room 1, St Albans City and District Council Offices, St Peters Street, St Albans, AL1 3JE

Register here

Michael Seres chosen to carry Olympic flame

Michael Seres

A man from Radlett who has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity has been selected as an Olympic torchbearer. Read more

Olympic Torch Route Announced

Olympic Torch will go through Hatfield Road, St Peters Street and Folly Lane. More here

Are you inspired to volunteer by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games?

If you are inspired by the London 2012 Olympics, this is your opportunity to take part in local Games related activities. You’ll meet new people, learn new skills and feel part of the excitment.

To celebrate the Games coming to the UK, you can join this volunteer programme with your local community, and be part of delivering the best Games ever!

Interested? Click here

Planning a street party

Click here for forms, advice and support

20 new things in 12 months

St Albans District Council challenge you to try 20 new things in the next 12 months! Why not learn a new skill, try a new sport or physical activity, discover and explore new places within the District or do something you've always wanted to but never find the time. Are you ready to take up this 2012 challenge?  Here are some ideas

How your council works

Find out here

St Albans City and District set to celebrate the Paralympic Torch Relay

St Albans, Hertfordshire is one of 34 communities across the country that will host Flame Celebrations as part of the London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay

The first St Albans Inclusive Sports Festival will be held to host part of the nation’s Flame

Over 3500 people nominated across the country to be Torchbearers in campaigns run by BT, Lloyds TSB and Sainsbury’s

150 schools from across the UK taking part in the STEM Challenge 9 to investigate how to create a spark by the energy of human endeavour to light the Paralympic Flame

More here

Hertfordshire prepares to mark Queen's jubilee

Click here to read more

St Albans Faith and Culture Enterprise
Find our more here

City hospital to hold Celebration of Success awards

Patients and visitors to St Albans City Hospital will have the chance to nominate a nurse or midwife they feel has made a special contribution to their care. More here

Your Questions - Business Special

Radio Verulam is recording a Business Special edition. Put your questions to a panel of top businessmen the event will take place on Feb 28 at The Maltings Theatre in St Albans. Doors open at 6 and recording begins at 7.30. Spaces are limited, please register here. The programme will be broadcast on Radio Verulam 92.6FM on 4 March at 6.00 pm. A podcast will also be available from the Radio Verulam website.

Flippin' Good Fun

Register now for for the annual St Albans Pancake Race. This year it also includes a Flippin' Walkers' Race, in which entrants walk while flipping a pancake continuously. The race takes place on Tue 21 Feb at 12 noon. Ring 01727 864511

Young politicians call for better bus services

Members of St Albans and District Liberal Youth are campaigning for improved bus services for young people.    They have started a petition and need to get at least 100 signatures before they can present it to Hertfordshire County Council.  Add your voice to the campaign here if you would like to support them

Look! St Albans

Have you ever considered what St Albans might look like in ten or twenty years time? Do you care about the appearance of new buildings in the city? Have your ever admired new developments in other towns and cities and wished to see similar inspiring buildings in St Albans?If the answer to any of these questions is YES, then now is the time to act. A group of local organisations, including the Civic Society, have asked the Prince’s Foundation to help in articulating specific design rules for new buildings and spaces in the City Centre. The Foundation are inviting the public to share ideas and images. The view is that local residents and city centre users know what looks best in St Albans! 


Visit  Look! St Albans for more information

Youth Volunteering Meeting

St Albans Volunteer Centre is looking for enthusiastic and passionate young people aged between 16 and 19 to help shape the work we do around youth volunteering. We want to develop a youth volunteering webpage and encourage and help more young people to volunteer. 

This is your opportunity to revamp your peers opinions on volunteering, creating new ways of stimulating their interest and creating a night they will not forget!

If you are interested please contact emily@cvsstalbans.org.uk or ring 01727 852657 to book your space by the 20th February.

We will be meeting on the 23rd February at 5:30 in Costa Coffee to discuss ideas.  Refreshments will be bought for all attendees (within reason!)

Getting Involved in making St Albans safer

The Community Safety Partnership, which includes St Albans City and District Council and a number of partner agencies, has been set up to reduce crime and disorder across the District.

Each year we consult with the public and local groups on our plans and priorities for the coming year. This is an opportunity for residents to let us know how they think we can reduce crime and disorder and whether our priorities are correct.

In 2012/13, the Community Safety Partnership aims to build a safer District by addressing these six priorities:

• Reducing crime
• Protecting vulnerable people
• Reducing anti-social behaviour
• Educating on drugs and alcohol misuse
• Managing offenders
• Promoting reassurance and engagement

The short questionnaire about these priorities is available for residents to complete on the Council’s website.

Olympic torch to pass through St Albans

Join in the Olympic celebrations when St Albans City and District plays host to the Olympic Flame on Sunday, 8 July 2012 as part of the 8,000 mile London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Route around the UK.

Everyone in the local community is invited to take part in the celebrations, share in the Olympic spirit and give support to Torchbearers from the local community when the Olympic Flame passes through the District.