The Harpenden Guide - latest news and updates from this unique Community App

Harpenden Christmas Market

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 13:55:12 GMT

First Christmas Market Celebrates Local Makers and Community Spirit

Saturday 22nd November, 10am–5pm at The Eric Morecambe Centre

We Are Harpenden, in partnership with The Eric Morecambe Centre, are thrilled to invite the community to their very first Christmas Market on Saturday 22nd November, from 10am to 5pm, showcasing the best of local creativity, craftsmanship, and festive spirit.

The market will feature a delightful range of local independent businesses, each bringing their own touch of seasonal magic. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, artisan food, festive homeware, and meet the talented people behind these small, local brands. There will also be wreath-making workshops and a festive photo pop-up, making it a perfect day out for families and friends.

“This event is all about celebrating and supporting our amazing local makers and small businesses,” said organisers Katie and Sabine from We Are Harpenden. “It’s a chance to shop small, connect with our community, and enjoy some Christmas cheer — all under one roof.”

In the spirit of giving, the market will also feature a charity raffle to raise funds for Youth Talk, a local organisation providing free, confidential counselling to young people. Local businesses have generously donated prizes, and organisers welcome further support from those wishing to contribute or sponsor the event.

�� Date: Saturday 22nd November, 2025
�� Time: 10am – 5pm
�� Free Entry
�� Venue: The Eric Morecambe Centre, Leyton Road, Harpenden
�� More info here: harpenden.thewearecommunity.co.uk/christmas-market

Come along, discover local treasures, support independent businesses, and help make this first independent Christmas Market a truly festive celebration for Harpenden!

The Harpenden Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative to support local people. It's provided as a 'not-for-profit' initiative by local businessman Peter Barker and his family and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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Harpenden Set To Sparkle

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 09:54:16 GMT

Harpenden Set To Sparkle At The Christmas Carnival

Harpenden’s Christmas Carnival will take place this year on Sunday 23 rd November from 12pm-6pm, and promises to be an exciting, festive celebration. The Town Council is delighted to invite people of all ages to come together to enjoy the Christmas Carnival and all that Harpenden has to offer in its vibrant Town Centre. Around 20,000 residents and visitors are expected to attend.

Included in this year’s event are engaging Christmas workshops suitable for all ages, food and drink stalls, outdoor bars, fairground rides and walkabout entertainment from cheeky elves and stilt walkers dressed as clockwork ballerinas. The Christmas Farmers’ Market will also be a main feature of the High Street, plus Young Enterprise Stalls and of course Santa will be waiting to see the children in his Grotto!

The Procession will begin at 3pm; from Lydekker Park it will travel along the High Street up to Vaughan Road. The Pipes and Drums will lead the parade as tradition dictates, closely followed by Santa and his elves. Joining them are clockwork ballerina stilt walkers and entertainers, Brownies and Rainbows groups, Police Cadets, entertainers, musicians, community groups and the cast of this year’s Harpenden Panto.

Live entertainment will be performed on two stages with community groups and music entertainment performing on both of these. Main Stage performances include Rock Choir, Hurst Children’s Theatre, Top Hat, SASA School of Performing Arts, Number 7, Harpenden and Wheathampstead Gang Show and the cast of the Harpenden Panto. We are also delighted to welcome to the Mini Stage: Threefold, Abbie Gathard and the Cheeky Elves Show. The Town’s Christmas Lights will be switched on at 5pm by The Town Mayor, Cllr Beth Fisher, together with the winners of the Mayor’s Christmas Card Competition 2025 and 2024, a design competition open to children in Harpenden. This is always a show stopping moment for the Town and a time to appreciate the hospitality and breadth of the best of Harpenden.

Stewart Matthews, Managing Partner and Head of Commercial Law, Neves Solicitors (Principal Sponsor of the event) said, “We’re delighted to be sponsoring this year’s Christmas Carnival. Having had an office in Harpenden since 1957, we feel firmly rooted within the local community. This festive celebration promises to be a wonderful event for everyone to enjoy.”

Cllr Beth Fisher, Mayor of Harpenden, said, “Harpenden's Christmas Carnival is a truly magical event, bringing people together to enjoy the festive season. It is always wonderful to be amongst so many people celebrating this time with family and friends. I would like to thank the community groups, charities and local businesses who contribute so much to this event and really help to make it a special day. I'm especially looking forward to taking part in the procession, meeting the Young Enterprise Companies, and accompanying the Christmas Card Competition Winner when turning on our magnificent Christmas

lights. I hope to see you there!”

Alongside the event, the fantastic Christmas Emergency Services Open Day will also be taking place again this year at the Harpenden Fire Station. Further information is available on the Town Council’s website calendar: www.harpenden.gov.uk

Free parking for the event will be available at the Station car park starting at 12 noon; because of expected high attendance the Town Council encourages people to walk to the event where possible.

For families attending with young children, there will be free lost child wristbands available at the Town Council Information Tent.

Further information updates will be available on the Harpenden Town Council website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

The Harpenden Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative to support local people. It's provided as a 'not-for-profit' initiative by local family business Big Buzz Solutions and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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Poppy Appeal 2025

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 09:33:57 GMT

Annual Poppy Appeal 2025

Royal British Legion Annual Poppy Appeal 2025 – Volunteers Needed

Can you spare an hour or so at a time that suits you to help the Poppy Appeal as a volunteer collector in Harpenden, Wheathampstead or Redbourn?

The Street collection Licence runs from 25 ^th October to 8 ^th November and more volunteers are needed to collect donations on behalf of the Royal British Legion.

The Royal British Legion helps members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families. The annual Poppy Appeal is vital to fund their work.

If you would like to help please contact Harpenden RBL Appeal Organiser Rosemary Crofts on 07983 429771

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Summer Carnival - a roaring success

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 21:04:56 GMT

Harpenden Summer Carnival - A Huge Success

Harpenden’s Summer Carnival is huge success

The 58 ^th Harpenden Summer Carnival on Saturday didn’t fail to deliver on its promise of a fantastic community event with something for everyone. Residents and visitors attended in their thousands to enjoy music, entertainment, food and drinks, and family-fun.

The Carnival took place on Harpenden Common, in glorious sunshine. Highlights included entertainment by award winning Cha Char Chimps, world famous circus performer Richard Filby and live music on stage by Sam Lewis, Strike Free and The Carnegies. Funfair rides, a bubble performer, archery, a climbing wall and laser tag kept the children entertained which the wide variety of food and market stalls, and outdoor bars, with community seating.

Liam Stanbridge, Director of Mortgages at Turtle Mortgages, this year’s Principal Sponsors, said:

We were proud to support this year’s event in Harpenden and be part of such a brilliant local celebration. It was great to meet people from the community and explain how we help people feel confident and informed at every stage. Whether they’re getting their first mortgage, remortgaging or investing. Lots of people were pleased to hear we don’t charge any fees for our advice. Big thanks to the organisers for such a well-run and enjoyable day, we loved being involved.

Cllr Beth Fisher, Harpenden Town Mayor said, “Thank you to everyone who attended the Harpenden Carnival on Saturday. It was a fabulous day in the sunshine and it was lovely to see so many people enjoying the free entertainment on Harpenden Common. Harpenden's community events are so important to the Town and it was a real pleasure for me to be involved in such a great event, presenting the prize on behalf of our Principal Sponsor Turtle Mortgages and collecting donations with our dedicated volunteers.

The charities supported this year include my chosen charities the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline and the King's Pantry Foodbank, plus other good causes selected by the Round Table who will all really benefit from the funds raised. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, stallholders, participants and visitors, money raised over the years has supported countless organisations."

Following the disappointing cancelation of this event a few weeks ago, due to predicted bad weather, the Town Council rescheduled the Summer Carnival so are especially pleased to have brought such an exciting event to the Town.

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Harpenden Summer Carnival

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Sun, 25 May 2025 08:14:07 GMT

Join Us at the Harpenden Summer Carnival

Picture Credit: Steve Collins

Harpenden Town Council is delighted to announce that the 58th Summer Carnival will take place on Saturday 7th June, 12-6pm . This exciting event is always a well-supported community occasion, welcoming thousands of people to Harpenden’s vibrant Town Centre and Common.

Highlights this year include family entertainment by award winning Cha Char Chimps, world famous circus

performer Richard Filby and hooptastic hooler-hooper Angie Mack. The impressive Music Stage programme includes current hits, rock, pop, indie and original compositions as well as popular crowd pleasers from Sam Lewis, Threefold, Maida Cales and The Carnegies.

Funfair rides, inflatables, a bubble performer, archery, a climbing wall and so much more will be open throughout the day as well as a variety of exciting market stalls.

Food stalls this year include delicious BBQs, street food from around the world from Greek mezze to South African, vegan delights, smash burgers, pizza and so much more. Outdoor bars, situated by the Performance area and Stage, will complete the day. Back by popular demand frozen cocktails will be served!

Liam Stanbridge, Director of Mortgages at Turtle Mortgages, this year’s Principal Sponsors, said: “We’re thrilled to be the principal sponsor of the Harpenden Summer Carnival, especially as Turtle Mortgages was

proudly hatched right here in Harpenden just last year. With both of our directors having grown up in the town, our connection to the community runs deep, and we’re excited to give back and be part of such a fantastic local event.”

Cllr Beth Fisher, Harpenden Town Mayor said, “It is always wonderful to see so many people enjoying themselves in Harpenden and we are really looking forward to hosting this fantastic event once again. The Summer Carnival is a real highlight of our events calendar which offers incredible free entertainment for all the family. Community events are so important for many reasons: they help us to support local businesses, bring vibrancy to Harpenden, and importantly help us to raise vital funds for local charities supporting people going through a difficult time. I would like to thank Principal Sponsors, Turtle Mortgages,

whose generosity allows us to host this exciting celebration.”

The Carnival is a huge fundraising event for worthwhile charities which this year includes the Town Mayor’s chosen charities Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline and the Kings Pantry and other good causes selected by the Round Table who also play a key role. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, stallholders, participants and visitors, money raised over the years has supported countless organisations.

Alongside the Carnival, Art on the Common will be situated on Harpenden Common outside Park Hall from 10-5pm. This is a popular event in support of Cancer Research and showcases over 60 local artists. The perfect chance to meet the artists and purchase pieces from a range of genres.

Further information

The event brochure, including site map and timings, is available to download from the Town Council website:

www.harpenden.gov.uk. Visitors are encouraged to walk to the event where possible. Free parking is available at the Station car parks with grateful thanks to Thameslink, and there are additional Town Centre car parks operating pay and display.

Wrist bands for children and vulnerable adults will be available from the Town Council’s Information Tent near the Bull Road crossing.

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Join Us for The Highland Games

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 12:59:13 GMT

Join Us at the 2025 Highland Games

Get ready for a day filled with excitement, tradition, and fun at the Harpenden Highland Gathering 2025 on 13 July 2025 at Rothamsted Park.

Experience the thrill of the Highland games, enjoy live music, indulge in delicious food, and immerse yourself in Scottish culture. Whether you're a fan of caber tossing, tug-of-war, or simply want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, there's something for everyone!

Highlights:

Traditional Highland games
Live music performances
Food stalls with Scottish delicacies
Family-friendly activities
Craft and merchandise stalls

Ticket Sales:

Advance tickets: £8.00
On the day: £10.00
Accompanied children (16 years and under): Free

How to Buy Tickets:

Visit our website: https://harpenden-lions.co.uk
Tickets are also available at the entrance on the day of the event.

Directions to the Event:

By Car: Use postcode AL5 2LX for your satnav. From the M1, exit at Junction 10 and follow the A1081 to Harpenden. Proceed along the High Street, straight across the mini roundabout at The Harpenden Arms, and at the next roundabout, go straight across passing The Silver Cup on the right. Within 50 yards, turn left into the car park.

By Train: The event is a few minutes' walk from Harpenden Railway Station. Exit the station and walk along Station Road to reach Rothamsted Park.

We need your help to make this event a success! Volunteer with us and be a part of this incredible experience. Your support will ensure the event runs smoothly and creates lasting memories for all attendees.

Follow us on Facebook for updates, sneak peeks, and more exciting announcements. Stay connected and be the first to know about all the fun activities we have planned! https://fb.me/e/858b5soSG

Don't miss out on the Harpenden Highland Gathering 2025 – it's going to be an unforgettable day!

You can also find out more at the website here...

See you there!

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Happy New Year from The Harpenden Guide

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 11:35:04 GMT

Happy New Year from The Harpenden Guide

As we step into 2025, we want to take a moment to wish all of our wonderful app users a Happy New Year! We hope your year is filled with joy, success, and plenty of exciting local adventures.

Reflecting on 2024, it’s been fantastic to see how the Harpenden community has embraced the app. From finding the best local events to discovering hidden gems in town, your engagement has been inspiring. We are so grateful for your support and feedback, and it’s your involvement that drives us to keep improving and expanding what The Harpenden Guide offers.

What's coming in 2025?

We’ve been busy behind the scenes working out some new features that we think you're going to love. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:

1. The Harpenden Health Hub
Health and wellbeing are always important, and in 2025 we’re excited to be working with our Headline Sponsor TP Health & Fitness Coaching to introduce our brand-new Health Hub feature. This section of the app will be dedicated to helping you stay active, healthy and informed.

2. Business Directory Revamp
Our business directory will be getting a refresh this year to make it even easier to find local services and shops. We’re adding more categories, updating profiles, and introducing new listings so you can quickly connect with businesses that match your needs. Whether you're searching for a tradesperson, a boutique, or a great new café to try, we’ve got you covered.

3. Community Spotlights
In the spirit of keeping things local, we’re working on a new series of community spotlight features as part of building out our blog. We’ll be looking to highlight a local business, initiative, or individual making a difference in Harpenden. We know there are so many amazing stories to share, and we can't wait to bring them to the forefront.

Your Input Shapes The Future

The Harpenden Guide is all about the community, and we’d love to hear your ideas for new features or content. If there’s something you’d like to see more of, drop us a message through the app or via our website.

Your feedback is invaluable and helps us continue to make the app even better.

Here’s to a fantastic 2025, full of growth, connection, and community spirit. Thank you for being part of The Harpenden Guide family. Let’s make this year the best one yet!

Cheers to a bright year ahead,

The Harpenden Guide Team

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Voluntary Social Media Manager

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 15:52:29 GMT

Voluntary Social Media Manager for The Harpenden Guide

We're looking for a Voluntary Social Media Manager to get involved in supporting The Harpenden Guide.

This is a great opportunity for a small social media business looking to raise it's profile and put something back into the local community, and get a great case study too, or a social media student looking to get some CV experience as well.

The Harpenden Guide is a unique not-for-profit community initiative designed to support local people and businesses through our vibrant community mobile app.

We're all about connecting our Harpenden community, making it easier for residents to discover local activities and events, local businesses, services and things to do in Harpenden.

The Role: Voluntary Social Media Manager

Are you a social media whizz looking to make a real difference in your community? Or perhaps you're starting out in the social media business and need a fantastic case study to showcase your skills?

We have the perfect opportunity for you!

We're on the hunt for a passionate and savvy volunteer to manage our social media presence across Twitter (X), Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You'll also get to flex your writing muscles by managing our blog on the website too.

This role is ideal for someone with a flair for creating engaging content and a keen interest in supporting local communities.

What You'll Be Doing...

Social Media Management : Create, schedule, and post content across our social media platforms using tools like Hootsuite.

Content Creation : Develop and curate engaging content that highlights local businesses, events, and community stories.

Community Engagement : Interact with our followers, respond to comments, and foster a sense of community online.

Blog Management : Write and publish blog posts that promote and support local causes and keep our audience informed and engaged.

Analytics : Monitor and report on social media performance, helping us understand what's working and what needs tweaking.

Who We're Looking For...

Social Media Enthusiasts : Whether you're a student, a budding social media professional, or simply someone with a passion for connecting people online, we want to hear from you!

Creativity and Flair : If you have a knack for crafting compelling content and a good eye for visuals, you'll fit right in.

Community Spirit : An understanding of Harpenden and our local community is a plus, but not essential. What's important is your enthusiasm for supporting local initiatives.

Tech-Savvy : Experience with Hootsuite or similar tools would be advantageous, but we're happy to provide training.

Commitment : There's no set time commitment for this, but it's probably around a 2-3 hours a month to suit your schedule. We're completely flexible and appreciate any time you can offer.

What's In It for You?

Experience : Gain valuable experience managing social media for a community-focused initiative.

Portfolio : Build a strong case study to add to your CV or business portfolio.

Training : Receive full training and ongoing support.

Community Impact : Make a tangible difference in your local community.

Expenses : Out-of-pocket expenses will be covered.

How to Apply

Ready to join us in making Harpenden even more amazing? We'd love to chat!

Call Peter on 07976 609551 for an informal chat for more information or send us a quick note about yourself and why you’re interested in the role to enquiries@harpendenguide.co.uk - we can't wait to hear from you!

Together, let's make a positive impact on our community one post at a time!

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Images of Harpenden Charity Calendar

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 09:07:53 GMT

Here's a great Xmas gift for a great local cause too

Support this fabulous charity initiative by Students from Katherine Warington School.

Celebrate Harpenden’s charm all year round while making a meaningful impact in our community.

The 'Images of Harpenden' 2025 Calendar features stunning professional photographs of our beautiful town - one captivating image for every month. Find out more here...

This project is proudly led by students from Katherine Warington School , who are participating in the Dragon’s Apprentice Challenge to raise funds for the local charity Communities 1st.

All proceeds will support the charity’s heartwarming ‘Communities Thirst’ project, helping local people gain skills and opportunities through a unique community coffee cart initiative.

Order Now to Avoid Missing Out! Find out more here...

Calendars are just £12.99 , plus £2.50 delivery. Stock is limited, and to ensure delivery before Christmas, please place your order by 12th December .

Don’t wait - once they’re gone, they’re gone!

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Christmas Fun in Harpenden

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:38:46 GMT

Get Ready for a Festive December in Harpenden!

It’s hard to believe, but December is here and the festive season is knocking on our doors!

As the days grow colder and the twinkling lights appear, it’s time to embrace the Christmas spirit. To help you make the most of this magical time, we’ve been working behind the scenes on something truly special at the Harpenden Guide Community App.

Download the free Harpenden Guide Community App .

Introducing: Festive Fun in Harpenden

This year, we’re thrilled to unveil the updated Festive Fun in Harpenden feature—a one-stop guide designed to make your holiday season as merry and stress-free as possible.

Our team has been busy scouting the local area to uncover the best of Harpenden’s Christmas magic. Whether you’re searching for Santa’s next stop, looking to attend a sparkling Christmas market, or planning a family outing to a pantomime, we’ve got you covered.

This year’s feature includes:

Where to Find Santa: From his grottos to festive appearances, find out where the jolly man in red will be.

Christmas Events & Activities: Discover everything from tree lightings to local fairs and community caroling.

Pantomimes and Shows: Plan a magical outing with friends or family to see the season’s best performances.

Festive Music and Entertainment: Enjoy local choirs, live music, and more to fill your heart with Christmas cheer.

How to Join the Festive Fun

Getting into the holiday spirit has never been easier. All you need to do is download The Harpenden Guide App to your mobile device and dive into the Festive Fun in Harpenden section. It’s packed with all the details you need to plan a season full of joy and excitement.

So, grab a warm drink, cozy up with your family, and explore what Harpenden has to offer this Christmas. From festive outings to magical moments, we’ve rounded it all up for you in one convenient place.

Don’t Miss Out! Let’s make this December a time to remember.

Download the app today, and let’s get the Christmas magic rolling. With The Harpenden Guide Community App in hand, you won’t miss a single merry moment.

Happy holidays from all of us at The Harpenden Guide! ��

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Christmas Carnival 2024 Cancelled

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 18:11:34 GMT

Important Notice from Harpenden Town Council - Carnival 2024

It is with much regret that we have had to take the decision to cancel the 2024 Harpenden Christmas Carnival due to take place this Sunday.

We have been closely monitoring the weather this week, including the wind speeds and gusts, and have been working hard to deliver the Carnival safely. Yesterday we made modifications to the plans which we hoped would enable the event to go ahead.

However the Met Office has today issued new national severe weather warnings for the weekend which have a heightened impact on Harpenden. This includes higher gusts of wind which are now consistently forecast to be above the upper limits that allow us to erect farmers market stalls, music stages and fun fair rides. The safety of residents, traders and event staff is always at the forefront of our decisions even though we appreciate how disappointing this is to everyone.

The pre-booked craft activities in Park Hall will be going ahead, as will the Santa’s Grotto which is now located in Bennets Main Hall.

Santa’s Grotto is open from 12noon until 6pm (with a break from 3pm to 3.30pm) and you can turn up and join the queue. Tickets are £3 per child and include a small gift from Santa.

The Town Centre Christmas tree and Christmas lights will be switched on at some point during Sunday however this will not involve any countdown event.

If you would like further information please contact Harpenden Town Council:

Telephone: 01582 768278

Email: harpenden.town.council@harpenden.gov.uk

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Harpenden Banking Hub Gets The Go Ahead

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 14:50:19 GMT

Banking in Harpenden

Photo Credit: Steve Collins

Harpenden Town Council Celebrates Banking Hub Campaign Success

Harpenden will be getting a Banking Hub! This announcement follows close to three years work by the Town Council to secure what will be a vital community asset.

Back in February 2023, the Town Council made an application to the relevant bodies setting out the case for a Banking Hub in Harpenden. Unfortunately this application was rejected due to criteria imposed on assessors that we believed were not fit for purpose. Rather than accepting this knock back, the Town Council embarked on a lobbying campaign for changes to the criteria that would see a Banking Hub secured for the Town. This has included liaison with the previous and current Government and national financial institutions including the Financial Conduct Authority.

Councillor Pip Liver, Mayor of Harpenden, said “Confirmation that a Harpenden Banking Hub will go ahead is

excellent news for our Town. The diminishing banking services has been hugely detrimental to residents and small businesses in Harpenden and neighbouring villages who rely heavily on Harpenden Town Centre. The Town Council’s resilience in its campaign to secure the Banking Hub has now been rewarded and will make an incredible difference. We would particularly like to express our gratitude to local resident and industry expert, Derek French, who has played a vital role in securing this essential service.”

What is a banking hub?

A Banking Hub is a place where the public and businesses have daily access to face-to-face counter service, with the same transactional banking facilities that the high street banks offer. This includes the opportunity for scheduled private consultations with individual bank representatives. They are organised and funded by banks and would not be funded locally using public funds.

A hub is a dedicated and appropriate banking space, open to customers of all retail banks, situated in the centre of town and aims to be accessible to everyone.

Why does Harpenden need a banking hub?

Across the country, high streets have seen many changes over recent years and ours in Harpenden is no different. One of the big changes is the reduction in banks and the services that they offer. Harpenden Town Council engaged local people in 2022 which helped to identify the key reasons a Banking Hub is needed in Harpenden:

Significant volume of closures so far have already made it very difficult for local people and businesses to access banking services;
Reduction in banks has had a detrimental impact on High Street retail footfall
Local people and businesses are unable to bank in the way that they would like;
Impact is felt across age groups but more so in the over 55’s;
Clear demand for transactional services (cash withdrawals above ATM and PO limits, need for denominated cash, regular or event related large cash deposits, depositing high value and foreign currency cheques);
Clear demand for in person expertise (account problems, including digital), proof of identity, bereavement procedures, Power of Attorney registration, opening new accounts or adding/removing names, resolving fraud issues, signing/authorisation changes to charity accounts, arranging large - including international - payments/transfers).

Who would own, fund and operate the hub?

It would be owned by Cash Access UK, funded by the banking industry and operated by the Post Office (but in a separate location).

Where will the hub be located and who finds the appropriate property?

They are situated in the centre of town and aim to be accessible to all members of the public. There should be at least 1,000 sq ft, able to be secure and have appropriate back-office space.

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Christmas Carnival Set To Sparkle

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 22:39:18 GMT

Harpenden set to sparkle this Xmas

Harpenden’s Christmas Carnival will take place this year on 24 November from 12pm-6pm, with magical festivities planned throughout the Town Centre. The event promises to be a fantastic celebration for all – it’s free to attend and will have something for everyone. The event has become a wonderful symbol of the start of Christmas celebrations. As one of the Town Council’s main events of the year it welcomes around 20,000 residents and visitors.

The Christmas Carnival is a lively occasion with an abundance of live entertainment, activities, food and drink, outdoor bars and music as well as the Christmas Farmers’ Market. Santa and his cheeky elves will be at the event again this year and there will be the opportunity to see them in the Procession as well as in his Grotto.

The Procession will begin at 3pm; from Lydekker Park it will travel along the High Street up to Vaughan Road. This year its theme is 'A Harpenden Winter Wonderland' and the Town Council has opened the opportunity to join in to even more groups than before, making it an even bigger showstopper at the event. The Pipes and Drums will lead the parade as tradition dictates, closely followed by Santa and his elves. Joining them are stilt walkers and entertainers, Brownies and Rainbows groups, Police Cadets, Harpenden Colts FC, schools, entertainers, musicians, community groups and the cast of this year’s Harpenden Panto.

Live entertainment will be performed on two stages with community groups and music entertainment split between the two. We’re delighted to welcome SASA School of Performing Arts, Hurst Children’s Theatre Group, Rock Choir, the Gang Show and many other fabulous local performers to the main stage. The Mini Stage on Harpenden Common will include a variety of music and children’s entertainment including the Elves Show and Strike Free, talented musicians from Roundwood School.

The Christmas Lights will be switched on at 5pm by The Town Mayor, Cllr Pip Liver, together with the winner of the Mayor’s Christmas Card Competition, a design competition open to children in Harpenden. This is always a show stopping moment for the Town and a time to appreciate the hospitality and breadth of the best of Harpenden.

Craft Workshops will take place as usual in Park Hall, including children’s Christmas stocking decorating, Christmas sack printing, and wreath making. Further details about how to book these popular activities which are free of charge will be announced soon.

Cllr Pip Liver, Mayor of Harpenden, said “The Christmas Carnival always brings festive cheer and excitement to Harpenden and we are really looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors. It is wonderful to see so many people will be taking part from young performers on stage, incredible community groups in the procession and a diverse range of small businesses. This event is a fantastic way to bring people together and of course enjoy our vibrant Town.”

Alongside the event, the fantastic Christmas Emergency Services Open Day will also be taking place again this year at the Harpenden Fire Station. Free parking for the event will be available at the Station car park starting at 12 noon; because of expected high attendance the Town Council encourages people to walk to the event where possible.

For families attending with young children, there will be free lost child wristbands available at the Town Council Information Tent. Further information updates will be available on the Harpenden Town Council website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

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Free Wellness Event in Harpenden

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 07:17:25 GMT

Keeping Fit and Well in Harpenden

Everyone Active, in partnership with Age UK Hertfordshire, is hosting a free event for older persons at the Eric Morecambe Centre (EMC) on Monday 30th September.

The event, running from 12 noon to 3pm, is designed to showcase the wide range of activities and services available to older adults in the community, all under one roof.

This special occasion coincides with the International Older Persons Day on 1st October and marks the launch of Age UK Hertfordshire's Age Friendly campaign, which aims to remove barriers for older people throughout Hertfordshire.

The event also marks the start of Everyone Active's annual 'Age is Just a Number' campaign. Now in its fourth year, celebrates the senior demographic by showcasing their fitness stories and proving what can be achieved by staying active into later life.

Everyone Active – which manages leisure facilities in Harpenden and St Albans on behalf of St Albans City and District Council – is hosting a variety of physical activity tasters including netball, pickleball and table tennis.

The event will also invite visitors to trial a selection of Everyone Active’s unique sessions such as classes specifically for those with Parkinsons and GoodBoost, an app-based therapeutic exercise programme designed specifically for people with limited mobility and musculoskeletal conditions.

The EMC's function rooms will host talks and workshops focused on living longer, better and staying active.

Gusto will offer hot food and drinks available for purchase, ensuring attendees can enjoy refreshments throughout the event, providing a welcoming space for socialising.

As an added attraction, the EMC's museum exhibition will be open to attendees free of charge.

Kirsty Jones, Area Activity and Wellbeing Manager at Everyone Active, said: "The aim of the event is to engage older people, combat inactivity, and inform attendees about the wealth of opportunities available in the area.

“We are excited to open our doors and welcome senior members of our community to meet them wherever they may be in their fitness journey. Whether they are looking to try a class to help with an existing condition, are wanting to socialise with likeminded individuals or are searching for something new to add to their current exercise regime, we will be on hand to encourage people of all abilities to get involved to help improve their physical and mental wellbeing.”

Natalie Kelly, Age-Friendly Lead, Hertfordshire, said: "We are partnering with Everyone Active to launch Age-Friendly Hertfordshire, an exciting initiative dedicated to making our county the best place to age in, where residents can live healthier, happier, and safer lives for longer.

“To kick off this initiative, this special event will be filled with a variety of activities for people to try, designed to encourage health, happiness, and community connection among our older residents. We invite everyone to join us for a day of fun, engagement, and the start of an exciting future for aging in Hertfordshire."

While the event is free, attendees are encouraged to reserve their spots in advance.

For more information about the event please email stalbansactivecommunities@everyoneactive.com or to book please head to: https://forms.office.com/e/UQg7pufpte .

To help Age UK identify community needs and areas for improvement and assist them in working towards removing barriers that can make aging harder, please visit: https://forms.office.com/e/kUb6WP5xEc

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Festival Celebrates the best of Harpenden Food & Drink

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 22:56:19 GMT

The Best Food & Drink in Harpenden

Festival celebrates the best of Food and Drink in Harpenden this September!

Harpenden Town Council is excited to announce the return of the Harpenden Food and Drink Festival on Saturday 14th September, 12-6pm.

This event has grown to become one of the Town’s most popular festivals, bringing a wonderful carnival atmosphere to picturesque Harpenden. The event showcases the very best of food and drink, including street food, outdoor bars, market stalls and entertainment to accompany a vibrant day.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the Festival which will be situated across the Town Centre, Harpenden Common and Rothamsted Park with the addition of the Sustainability Market this year.

Rayden Solicitors, local specialist family law firm, have joined the event for 2024 as Gold Sponsors; their support helps to ensure that the Food and Drink Festival is bigger and better than ever and offers an unbeatable day for people of all ages.

Paula Butterworth, Executive Partner, Rayden Solicitors Harpenden said “Rayden Solicitors, local specialist family law firm, is delighted to be supporting the Food and Drink Festival. This is a fantastic annual event and we are so pleased to be part of it this year, and looking forward to meeting as many festival visitors as possible.”

The Festival will include outdoor bars and street food, community seating areas, market stalls, the Statty funfair, DJs, ferret racing, street entertainment, and a live Music Stage with performances by Strike Free, Pat & the Butchers as well as Number 7. This year’s Children’s Zone will include soft play, Sandy Art, outdoor games, arts and crafts with ArtShed and children’s entertainer Cha Char Chimps. Additionally the Cookery Theatre is back - an exciting demonstration stage featuring exceptionally talented chefs sharing tips and recipes.

The Harpenden Beer Festival is back for its 11th year. The event will coincide with the Harpenden Food and Drink Festival and includes over 50 real ales, perries and ciders.

Harpenden Town Mayor, Cllr Pip Liver said: “It is great to welcome so many people to Harpenden at this exciting Festival. With a fantastic variety of food and drinks, plus wonderful entertainment, this is an event that includes something for everyone. We are delighted that so many local businesses are taking part; events like this one really showcase the very best of Harpenden including fantastic independent businesses, beautiful green spaces and of course our vibrant Town Centre.”

Free parking will be available at the Station Car Parks for the duration of the event, with thanks to Thameslink.

Further information about this event, is available on the Harpenden Town Council website: www.harpenden.gov.uk and updates will be shared on the Town Council’s social media channels.

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Lydekker Park Music returns for 6th year

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 11:36:08 GMT

Free Music Event in Lydekker Park

Free ‘Music in Lydekker’ event returns for its sixth year

Music in Lydekker will be returning to Lydekker Park in Harpenden on Saturday 24 th August 2024, 12pm-4pm.

This FREE event will include incredible live music, performed by two exciting bands in the beautiful surroundings of one of Harpenden’s most picturesque green spaces. This year we're welcoming big band The Rockin Appellos with their selection of hits from the 50s and 60s and Harpenden favourite Number 7 showcasing hits through the decades.

This popular summer highlight, organised by Harpenden Town Council, is a fantastic opportunity for Harpenden residents and visitors to unwind and enjoy the afternoon sun (fingers crossed!). Delicious food provided by Greeko Grill and fabulous drinks by Wills Horsebox Bar will compliment the day and help to ensure a relaxing, enjoyable event.

Cllr Pip Liver, Mayor of Harpenden said “Music in Lydekker is one of my favourite events to enjoy with family and friends and I’m delighted that the Town Council is hosting this exciting event for the sixth year. Lydekker Park is the perfect backdrop for live music. It is important that we are able to provide free events such as this one which is available to everyone and we look forward to seeing people of all ages enjoy this wonderful afternoon.”

Music in Lydekker is a free event, booking is not required, but attendees are encouraged to arrive on foot where possible as parking at Lydekker Car Park is limited.

Further information updates will be available on the Harpenden Town Council website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

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The Great St Albans Challenge is launched

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 21:33:08 GMT

A unique event for all the family...

Get ready to channel your inner Sherlock, as a brand-new interactive treasure hunt is coming this September!

THE GREAT ST ALBANS CHALLENGE is a fun-packed one-day event where teams race around the city as part of a unique GPS treasure hunt.

The family-friendly, entertaining, and immersive event takes place on Sunday 29 September 2024 where teams dash through the city’s historic streets, tackling challenges, cracking clues and racking up points to be crowned champions! Whilst there is a time limit, winners are crowned on points, not speed, which makes it even more fun, and inclusive.

Starting and finishing at the St Albans Cathedral, teams are taken across the city centre on foot. All they need is a mobile phone and a sense of fun as they find ‘hotspots’ and complete the ‘tasks’ generated via the App.

The event culminates with a prize giving at the Cathedral, where the winner’s trophies are presented, and all participants receive a limited-edition medal!

Local company Wildgoose has launched the event to offer people something a bit different and to raise money for a local charity, with all profits supporting Youth Talk which provides free, confidential counselling for 13–25-year-olds in St Albans, Harpenden and surrounding areas.

Peter Barker, Operations Director at Wildgoose, said: "As a proud local business with a global reach, we understand the significance and importance of giving back to our community. We're thrilled to launch the inaugural 'The Great St Albans Challenge' as an exciting opportunity for local people to enjoy a great day out whilst showcasing St Albans and supporting such a deserving local charity too.”

The event has a rolling start time of 11.30 – 12.30 pm and once started, teams have 2.5 hours to explore the city and complete the fun challenges, with plenty of time to refuel with a cuppa and snack en-route. The clock stops at 3.00 pm when teams must be seated at the Cathedral for the grand finale event to find out who will be crowned the 2024 challenge Champions.

David Barker, Chief Executive of Youth Talk said: “I can't begin to tell you how excited we are about the Great St Albans Challenge. Not only will it be a fabulously fun afternoon for residents, businesses or organisations across the district of St Albans, but it will play a vital part in supporting our local young people and the work of Youth Talk - win, win!”

Organisers aim to raise £10,000 to support Youth Talk which has helped thousands of young people with free counselling services since 1997.

The headline sponsor for this year is The Maltings Shopping Centre. Richard Marrett, Centre Manager said; "We are delighted to sponsor The Great St Albans Challenge as part of our commitment to support the local community through the valuable work of Youth Talk.”

Enter a team now!

Book before August 31st to take advantage of an early bird offer of £40 per team - teams can be between 4-6 people. Register a team and find out about sponsorship opportunities at www.charitychallenge.events

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Hour Hands joins The Harpenden Guide

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 10:13:42 GMT

Introducing Hour Hands - a new Gold Partner

Unlock Your Business Potential with Hour Hands in Harpenden

Running a business in Harpenden and feeling overwhelmed with admin tasks? Hour Hands is your go-to solution! They offer a range of services designed to give you back your time, so you can focus on what you do best – growing your business.

Bookkeeping Services : From managing accounts payable and receivable to payroll and management accounting, Hour Hands takes care of all your bookkeeping needs. They ensure accuracy and provide insights to help your business thrive.

Business Support : Need help with administrative tasks, marketing, or project management? Hour Hands has a team of virtual executive assistants ready to handle everything from diary management to research, allowing you to concentrate on your core business activities.

PA Services : Imagine having a personal assistant who can handle your home and family administration. From organising parties to booking appointments, Hour Hands PAs manage your personal to-do list efficiently.

Why Choose Hour Hands?

Expertise and Experience: Their team is skilled in various administrative and financial tasks.
Flexibility: Outsourcing means no additional employment costs or overheads.
Peace of Mind: Reliable, professional service ensures tasks are completed to the highest standard.

Client Testimonials : Businesses rave about Hour Hands' ability to seamlessly integrate into their operations, providing valuable support that feels like an extension of their team.

Don't let admin tasks hold you back. Get in touch with Hour Hands and see how they can transform your business operations.

Visit Hour Hands to learn more!

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Meet TP Health & Fitness Coaching

Sat, 20 Jul 2024 07:30:08 GMT

Introducing TP Health and Fitness

Introducing TP Health and Fitness Ltd: Your Inclusive Personal Training Studio in Harpenden

As we've recently announced TP Health & Fitness Coaching as our new Headline Sponsor we thought it would be worth sharing a few more details about the services they provide.

At TP Health and Fitness Ltd, we believe that everyone deserves a welcoming and supportive environment to achieve their fitness goals. Located in the heart of Harpenden, our top-of-the-art facility offers a unique blend of personal training, one-to-one and small group sessions, as well as comprehensive nutrition and accountability coaching.

Our mission is to transform lives through strength training and holistic wellness. Whether you’re a fitness novice or a seasoned athlete, our expert trainers are dedicated to helping you reach your potential. We focus on creating tailored programs that not only enhance physical strength but also improve overall health and wellbeing.

What sets TP Health and Fitness Ltd apart is our commitment to fostering a fun and inclusive community.

Unlike traditional gyms, our studio is a safe haven where everyone feels welcome and motivated. We understand that the journey to fitness is personal, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Join us and experience the difference of a fitness community that cares about your success. Transform your life with TP Health and Fitness Ltd—where strength, health, and wellbeing come together in a safe and welcoming environment.

Find out more at https://tphealthfitness.com

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Harpenden's Teddy Bear's Picnic is back!

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 22:19:07 GMT

Time for your Teddy Bear Picnic

One of Harpenden’s most popular events for young children, the Teddy Bears’ Picnic, will take place in Rothamsted Park on Wednesday 7th August, 11am – 2pm.

Harpenden Town Council is delighted to once again host this event, organised to coincide with National Play Day – a national celebration of children’s right to play and a campaign to highlight the importance of play in children’s lives.

This year’s exciting event will include a variety of activities and entertainment for children, their families and carers, and of course their teddy bears!

This year’s Gold Sponsor ‘Nursery on the Green’ Manager, Carli Toal explained; “The Teddy Bear’s Picnic is a fantastic way of promoting communication and language skills, socialisation and imaginative play amongst children and we are hugely excited to be sponsors this year. We are really looking forward to getting out and about in the community and meeting lots of local families, as well as celebrating National Play Day as part of the occasion.”

FREE entertainment and activities already confirmed include: award winning interactive musical fun show ‘Cha Char Chimps’, an exciting show and activities by The Little Gym, Storytime with Harpenden Library, a bouncy castle and soft play. Regular attendees of the Picnic will also be pleased to hear that the much-loved Teddy Bears’ Hospital will be open. In addition, interactive stalls hosted by the Eric Morecombe Centre, Harpenden Child Contact Centre and Youth Talk will be joining the fun.

The Town Council organisers will be handing out lost children’s wrist bands on the day at the Information desk. Attendees will also be able to purchase tickets for Sandy Art and Fantastic Faces Face Paint.

Cllr Pip Liver, Harpenden Town Mayor said “The Teddy Bear’s Picnic is a wonderful Harpenden occasion. It is always so exciting to see children engaged in fun activities in Harpenden’s beautiful Rothamsted Park. The Town Council is proud to organise events for young families, helping to make memories, and importantly ensuring events like this are free to attend and available to everyone.”

This event is extremely popular and permanently moved to Rothamsted Park in 2023 to accommodate the growing number of attendees. This move also allowed the event to spread to the woodland themed play area in the Park.

Attendees are encouraged to bring along a picnic blanket, refreshments, bags of energy and of course their favourite bear!

For more information visit www.harpenden.gov.uk

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Announcing our New Headline Sponsor

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 09:28:32 GMT

Introducing our Headline Sponsor

We're delighted to announce that local business TP Health and Fitness Coaching has come on board as the new headline sponsor for The Harpenden Guide Community App.

Gaining the support of local community-minded businesses has been a vital part of developing this community initiative and we are delighted that Teighlor and the team at TP Health and Fitness Coaching are now on board.

We've got some exciting updates that we'll be working on together to bring a new 'Health and Fitness Hub' in the app with great information, advice and tips from local businesses in this space. Our goal is to provide local people with helpful information to promote wellbeing and help 'Get Harpenden Fitter'!

Peter Barker, Founder of The Harpenden Guide said: 'I am delighted that TP Health and Fitness Coaching are supporting this unique community resource. We started this voluntary community project during the pandemic to support local people and local business and this support is vital in ensuring the ongoing success of this unique community resource. We're looking forward to working with Teighlor to develop a new 'Health and Fitness Hub' as part of the App and are excited to have her and the team on board'.

Teighlor Pengelley, Founder of TP Health and Fitness Coaching, said: 'As a local Harpenden business it has always been important for us to be supporting our local community. We've been following and supporting The Harpenden Guide over the last few years so becoming the Headline Sponsor seemed a natural fit. The app is full of useful information and links for local people and a great pocket guide to Harpenden for all ages.

We're looking forward to helping promote the app across Harpenden and working with Peter to develop a new 'Health and Fitness' feature in the app too'.

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Harpenden On-Street Parking Charges

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 13:58:50 GMT

Have Your Say on Harpenden Street Parking!

Hey Harpenden residents!

Mark your calendars for an important date: Monday 22 July at 7:30 pm . The Town Council will be hosting an Extraordinary Council meeting at Park Hall, and are keen to hear your views!

What's on the Agenda? The big topic of discussion will be the proposed changes to 'on-street' parking policies and charges on Harpenden Streets. These changes are being proposed by the St Albans City & District Council (SADC).

Why Should You Care? Though Harpenden Town Council isn't the decision maker here, they are a key consultee. They'll be discussing and deciding on their official stance regarding these proposals, which they will then submit to SADC as part of the consultation process. Your voice matters in shaping that position!

Got Something to Say? The Town Council want to hear from you!

There's a chance for the public to speak at this meeting, but there's a process to follow so you can get all the details from the Town Council Website here...

SADC is expected to launch the public consultation with the specific parking proposals on 18 July.

This is your chance to review them and prepare your thoughts before the meeting.

There is also a petition of Change.org too that you can sign here...

Let’s come together to discuss these changes and ensure our voices are heard.

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Old Albanians Cricket Club Celebrity Event

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:27:46 GMT

Lashings World XI come to the OA's

Old Albanian Cricket Club v Lashings World XI

Join us for an epic cricket showdown as Old Albanian Cricket Club takes on the formidable Lashings World XI! This thrilling in-person event will be held at the OAs cricket ground, Harpenden Road, St Albans AL3 6BB, UK.

Get ready to witness some breathtaking cricket action from legends of the game such as Gordon Greenidge, Saqlain Mushtaq and Adam Hollioake to name but a few. Cheer on your hero's or your local side.

A truly great experience for all cricket enthusiasts. Don't miss out on this exciting event. Mark your calendar and be there to capture the spectacle! Let's make it a day to remember!

PLUS...

OACC shirt sponsor, BTCC race team, EXCELR8 Motorsport, will be proudly displaying the official 2024 Hyundai BTCC race car. Accompanying this we will be privileged to share the company of 2022 BTCC champion Tom Ingram.

We are also proud to announce that the pre match captains coin toss will be conducted by local MP Daisy Cooper.

Tickets are available now...

Advance - £5.00

On the gate - £7.00

Car Parking - £7.50.

We are proud partners with local charity Youth Talk. They provide free, confidential counselling to 13-25 year olds in St Albans and surrounding areas. In aid of Youth Talk we have arranged for some exclusive memorabilia which we are pre selling via this site.

ALL profits from these additional sales will be going to Youth Talk to help raise funds and awareness for the charity to support the ongoing work they perform.

Car Parking

Purchase your parking tickets on the ticket page

Blue badge holders = Free

Main Car Park = £7.50 per car

Further details and tickets can be obtained here...

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Fundraising for the Skate Park continues...

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 22:03:00 GMT

Support the Harpenden Skate Park

We Need Your Help to Build Harpenden's New Skate Park!

The Playpark Action Rothamsted Committee (PARC) is buzzing with excitement because their fantastic project for a brand-new Skate Park at Rothamsted is in full swing!

But they need your help to make it happen.

This isn’t just any skate park; it's a space that will bring joy and a sense of community to Harpenden for years to come. Imagine the fun, the skills, and the friendships that will be made here!

Here’s how you can be a part of this amazing project:

Buy a Brick for £100: How cool would it be to have your family’s name, street, or organization displayed in the park? Not only does it contribute to a great cause, but it also leaves a lasting legacy in our town.

Become a Named Sponsor: Fancy seeing your name or your company's name on a permanent wooden plaque by the Skate Park? This is your chance to shine and show your support in a big way.

Make a Private Donation: Every bit helps! If you'd prefer to pledge a private donation, we'd love to hear from you.

Just drop us an email at emailparc@gmail.com or view more details and make a donation here - https://parc.charity/donate/

Let’s come together and make this dream a reality. Spread the word, tell your friends, and let’s build something incredible for Harpenden!

Thank you for your support!

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Harpenden Carnival Details Announced

Mon, 20 May 2024 21:45:55 GMT

57th Harpenden Summer Carnival announced

Exciting news – the Harpenden Summer Carnival is back on Saturday, June 8th, from 12-6 pm. It's one of the biggest highlights of our town's calendar, and we can't wait to see you there!

This year, the event will be showcasing the very best of Harpenden with a day full of free fun for everyone. Not only is it a blast, but it’s also a huge fundraiser for some amazing charities. The event is supporting the Town Mayor’s chosen charities, Youth Talk and the Harpenden Trust's Wellbeing Hub, along with other great causes picked by the Round Table. Thanks to our generous sponsors, stallholders, participants, and all of you wonderful visitors, the event has raised loads of money over the years for fantastic causes.

Douglas Sleaper from Savills Harpenden, the event's lead sponsor this year, is just as escited about the event as we are. He says, “Harpenden Carnival is a great celebration of our local community and we’re proud to have been involved for several years. As well as being a lot of fun for all the family it also raises a considerable amount of money for so many good causes. This year promises to be no exception and we can’t wait to welcome as many people as possible.”

Now, let's talk entertainment!

There's a fantastic lineup on the Music Stage, featuring vintage Rock’n’Roll band James and the Blue Moon, the super talented Sam Lewis, and local favorites Number 7 and Maida Vales. Over at the Performance Zone, get ready for jaw-dropping acts from world-famous circus artist Richard Filby, hilarious comedy juggler Matt Bernard, the award-winning Cha Char Chimps for the little ones, and the fabulous Cotter Academy of Irish Dance.

And that’s not all!

The Bubble Wizard is making a return by popular demand, plus there’s soft play, a climbing wall, archery, fairground rides, face painting, bungee trampolines, inflatables, ferret racing, mini golf – you name it, the Harpenden Carnival has got it!

Feeling hungry?

They've got you covered with a variety of food stalls offering BBQs, souvlaki, Indian street food, sourdough toasties, soul food, and a range of vegan delights.

Need a drink?

The Engineer Pub will be hosting a lively outdoor bar, and you can also enjoy frozen cocktails near the Music Stage.

Our Town Mayor, Cllr Pip Liver, is thrilled about the event. She says, “The Harpenden Carnival is an exciting summer tradition and the Town Council is delighted to organise such a vibrant and diverse event. The Carnival helps us to support local businesses and community groups, whilst raising considerable sums for charity. It is always great to see such community spirit on Harpenden Common. I’d like to thank our sponsors this year, Savills, Harpenden Dental Centre and Lyndhurst Financial Management whose generosity allows us to host such an important and enjoyable event.”

Don’t forget to stop by the Information Tent opposite the Music Stage. Town Council Officers will be there to greet you, and parents and carers can pick up a lost persons wristband for children and vulnerable visitors. You can also find out more about other Town Council events.

And guess what?

Art on the Common is happening on the same day from 10-5 pm right outside Park Hall. This popular event supports Cancer Research and features over 60 local artists. It’s the perfect chance to meet the artists and buy some amazing pieces.

So mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and join the rest of Harpenden for a day of fun, food, and fantastic entertainment at the Harpenden Summer Carnival!

See you there!

The Harpende n Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative to support local people. It's provided as a 'not-for-profit' initiative by local family business Big Buzz Solutions and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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Harpenden Welcomes New Mayor

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Mon, 20 May 2024 21:19:16 GMT

Introdcucing the new Mayor of Harpenden

Harpenden Town Council’s Annual Council Meeting took place on 13th May 2024. This is the first meeting of the Council’s Municipal Year and included election of the new Town Mayor, Cllr Pip Liver, and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Gill Haynes.

The Mayoral Chain was presented to the new Town Mayor by Cllr Fiona Gaskell, Past Town Mayor of Harpenden for 2023/24, who gave a valedictory speech and offered her congratulations to Cllr Liver on her new position. Cllr Liver in return presented the Past Town Mayor’s Badge, Certificate and Album to Cllr Gaskell.

Harpenden Town Mayor, Cllr Pip Liver, said “It is a privilege to become Mayor of Harpenden and an honour to serve its people. I am very much looking forward to supporting our community and representing the Town Council throughout the year.”

Civic guests included Mr Gerald Corbett, DL and Mrs Virginia Corbett for the Hertfordshire Lieutenancy, The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster and The Mayor of Houghton Regis, Cllr Jimmy Carroll.

The Town Mayor is the Chairman of the Council and carries out a civic role by representing Harpenden at events outside the area, as well as attending events in the Town such as prize givings, public meetings, official openings and civic occasions such as Remembrance Day.

In addition, the Mayor hosts a number of charity events and fundraising activities through their mayoral year to raise funds for their nominated charities. The Mayor’s charities this year are Youth Talk and the Harpenden Trust’s Wellbeing Hub.

Information about the Mayor’s Charities

Youth Talk has helped thousands of young people through tough times for over 26 years by providing a free,

confidential counselling service. Their vision is to ensure that every young person can talk to someone, who can help with whatever’s worrying them and their mission is to provide the best possible mental health support to young people in St Albans and the surrounding areas.

The Harpenden Trust Wellbeing activities are an integral part of the overall Harpenden Trust Care Fund. The Trust works with the Harpenden Health Primary Care Network, MIND in Mid Herts and a number of both national and local charities on a wide range of initiatives across Harpenden supporting the wellbeing of AL5 residents of all ages.

Information regarding Harpenden Town Council, Town Councillors and the Mayor’s Charities can be found online: www.harpenden.gov.uk/the-council/councillors

The Harpende n Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative to support local people. It's provided as a 'not-for-profit' initiative by local family business Big Buzz Solutions and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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Batford Neighbourhood Survey

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Sun, 19 May 2024 12:22:46 GMT

Batford Residents... Our Town Council Wants to Hear from You

Hey there, Batford residents!

Harpenden Town Council is seeking your views to help make our community an even better place to live.

The Council has recently launched a new survey for Batford residents and they want to hear directly from you about what’s working well and what could use a little TLC.

Instead of guessing what improvements are needed, the Council has created a survey to gather your thoughts. Your feedback is super important in helping them shape the future of this local neighbourhood.

Got a few minutes?

They would love for you to take the survey. It's quick and easy, and your input will make a real difference. Just click the link below to get started.

The survey closes on 30th June 2024, so don’t miss out!

Prefer a paper copy? No problem! You can grab one from the Town Hall on Leyton Road or Shezzo's Cafe at 106a Lower Luton Road in Batford.

Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts.

The Harpende n Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative to support local people. It's provided as a 'not-for-profit' initiative by local family business Big Buzz Solutions and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App..

Harpenden Guide App Updates

Thu, 02 May 2024 20:29:15 GMT

App Updates are now live...

We're super excited to let you know about some cool updates we've just rolled out for our mobile app to keep it all fresh and up to date!

Our tech team have been working hard to make the app better, faster, and a whole lot smoother for you.

Here's what's new:

We've switched our push notifications over to a new provider - this means you'll get updates more reliably and efficiently.
We've sped up how quickly things load after you log in or sign up, making everything feel seamless.

We've squashed some bugs that had been highlighted, like the iOS splash screen not showing up right, and some occasional issues with the push notifications.

The app's code has been updated too, so it works better with the latest Android and iOS updates.

We added a little extra margin on the sides for iOS devices to make sure everything displays perfectly.

And, of course, we've beefed up our security to keep all data safe and sound.

Don't forget that you will need to update your App to the latest version (V1.1) to take advantage of the new updates. You device should prompt you that there is an updated app on the store but if it doesn't you can quickly and easily update the app nanually by going to the iOS App store or Android App store.

We really hope you'll love these updates as much as we do. Your feedback means the world to us, so don't hesitate to reach out with your thoughts, concerns, or just a quick hello!

Happy updating

The Harpende n Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative to support local people. It's provided as a 'not-for-profit' initiative by local family business Big Buzz Solutions and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App..

Could you be our next Sponsor?

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 16:22:08 GMT

Could you be our next Sponsor?

The search has begun to bring on board a new headline sponsor for the Harpenden Guide Community App.

After three fabulous years, Lyndhurst Financial Management will be handing over the reigns to a new sponsor in the near future and we're now accepting statements of interest from local companies who may be interested in coming on board and supporting this unique community initiative.

Sponsoring the App is a great way to support our local community and with over 4,500 people having downloaded the app, it's a great way to get your brand infront of local people too.

Introduction

We are reaching out to secure the support of one local company to become the headline partner of The Harpenden Guide, a unique community app dedicated to supporting local people and providing a comprehensive, pocket-friendly guide to our town.

This not-for-profit community initiative offers an indispensable resource for both newcomers and long-time residents, showcasing all that Harpenden has to offer. By becoming a sponsor, your business will play a pivotal role in sustaining this free resource, while also benefiting from targeted local exposure and engagement.

Your investment will help maintain and improve The Harpenden Guide, ensuring it remains a valuable asset for the community. In return, we offer the following exclusive benefits to our headline sponsor:

1. Headline Feature on The App

As a sponsor, your brand will be prominently featured on the main landing screen of the app. This includes the integration of your company’s logo and details plus a dedicated page to promote your business ensuring high visibility to all our app users. This prime positioning not only enhances brand recognition but also showcases your commitment to supporting the local community.

2. Monthly Sponsor’s Blog Article

Each month, you will have the opportunity to feature a blog article on our dedicated website ( www.harpendenguide.co.uk/news ). This platform will allow you to share insights, company news, or industry-related content with a broad audience. These articles will not only engage readers but also drive traffic to your website, increasing your digital footprint and SEO ranking.

3. Push Notifications to Users

We offer our headline sponsor the opportunity to leverage our app's technology each month by sending push notifications directly to the smartphones of our users. This feature allows you to promptly inform them about your latest offers, events, or news. It’s an effective way to keep your business top-of-mind and stimulate immediate interest and action.

4. Promotion of Local Offers

The app provides a unique feature where you can promote special offers and discounts for your business. This not only helps to attract new customers but also rewards app users, creating a loyal customer base that appreciates the value added by your business.

Partnership Impact

Sponsoring The Harpenden Guide Community App is a great way to increase your local presence and consumer engagement and also highlight your commitment to giving back to the community. Furthermore, your support will directly contribute to the continuous development and enhancement of this essential free community resource.

We are excited about the possibility of your business joining us in this community-focused initiative and look forward to discussing this opportunity with you in detail. If you would like more details or an informal chat please contact Peter on 07976 609551 or send an email to enquiries@harpendenguide.co.uk.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on Harpenden.

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Welcome to Bounce Harpenden

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 22:08:19 GMT

Welcome to ((Bounce)) Harpenden

We're delighted to welcome ((BOUNCE)) Harpenden to The Harpenden Guide as a new Silver Partner.

((BOUNCE)) is the world's leading mini trampoline fitness brand! Routines are performed to banging tunes in a welcoming, motivating, environment.

((BOUNCE)) improves weight loss up to 3 times faster than floor-based exercise due to the addition of gravity and g-force, it builds core strength quickly, is a cellular workout and detoxifies the body efficiently thanks to the lymphatic system being pumped as we jump. There's oodles of scientific research on the health benefits of rebounding, but most impressively we're aiming to lose over 700 calories per session, and have fun of course.

Locations
Harpenden - Woodend Primary School AL53EF
Harpenden Central - The Grove Infant School AL51QD

Booking link
https://linktr.ee/bounceharpenden

FACTS
((BOUNCE)) is 3 times more effective than floor based exercise
87% of the impact is absorbed by the trampoline making it super low impact
The best way to drain your lymphatic system of dead sells and toxins
((BOUNCE)) 50% more effective than running.

Please do support this small local business and don't forget to mention The Harpenden Guide if you pop along!

Full details can be found in the Business Directory in the App under the Health, Fitness & Well Being section.

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April Update from our Sponsors

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 17:12:54 GMT

Thank you for your support

After three fabulous years as the headline sponsor for The Harpenden Guide Community App, Lyndhurst Financial Management will be handing the reigns to a new headline sponsor who will be joining us next month.

We'd like to take this opportunity to thank Lyndhurst (in particular Adam Cook) for the great support and backing Lyndhurst have provided for this community initiative since it's initial inception. Without their support the community app would never have come as far as it has over the last three years.

We are already in discussions with a number of local businesses who have expressed an interest in taking up the reigns of this unique community initiative, and will be providing further details in due course, but if your business would like to find out more about this unique local opportunity to raise your local profile, and get infront of local people then please contact us at enquiries@harpendenguide.co.uk and we'll be happy to share some more details.

We'll be introducing you to a new headline sponsor in due course but in the meantime a huge thank you to Lyndhurst Financial Managment for their continued interest and support.

Watch this space for updates!

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Enjoy the Summerton Whisky Festival

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 21:15:00 GMT

Whisky Festival Returns...

Explore a world of fantastic whisky, try different brands and regions, and find new favourites at the Summerton Whisky Festival on 18th May.

Taste over 50 whiskies from at least 15 brands, including Wolfburn, Mackmyra and The Oxford Artisan Distillery.

Those who have attended our previous festivals will know what to expect – an event packed with awesome brands showing off their latest expressions, masterclasses with expert whisky insight and discussion, and great food – all in the eminent company of like-minded whisky lovers and Summerton Club members.

TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FOR EITHER THE AFTERNOON (12-4PM) OR EVENING (5-9PM) SESSIONS, AND INCLUDE ALL YOUR WHISKY SAMPLING AND A TASTING GLASS TO TAKE HOME.

The exhibitors and masterclass line-ups are being finalised as we speak, and updates will be detailed on the website as they are confirmed.

Date: Saturday 18th May

Time: 12noon-4pm and 5pm - 9pm

Location: Lower Red Lion, Fishpool Street, St Albans, AL3 4RX

Tickets and more info: www.SummertonClub.com/Festival

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March Update from our Sponsors

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 18:09:43 GMT

The Herts Business Growth Show

Lyndhurst Financial Management, was delighted to be able to support the highly anticipated Herts Business Growth Show again this year at Rothamsted Conference Centre.

This annual event, now in its second year, was a fabulous opportunity for over 200 like-minded business owners to spend the day together learning, connecting and growing.

The Herts Business Growth Show has carved a niche for itself as a beacon of opportunity for local entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses to come together under one roof. It's not just an exhibition; it's a great meeting of business minds designed to motivate and inspire Hertfordshire Businesses.

Lyndhurst Financial Management was delighted to be one of the sponsors for the event as it very much supports our company's commitment to supporting local businesses and people.

The event was packed with a series of workshops, keynote speeches, and networking sessions designed to equip business owners with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of today’s business landscape.

The team at Lyndhurst were hands-on, engaging with participants, sharing insights into financial best practices, and exploring innovative solutions to help businesses maximise their growth potential.

The Herts Business Growth Show has once again proven to be a huge success and we look forward to the event in 2025. More details can be found here - www.hertsbusinessshow.co.uk.

Adam Cook

Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

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PARC Skateboard Design Competition

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 00:13:17 GMT

Harpenden young artists celebrate Skatepark competition win

Congratulations to the three winners of the PARC Skateboard Design Competition who were

awarded an exciting and unique prize, their design made into a real skateboard, presented by

Harpenden’s Deputy Mayor Cllr Pip Liver and Rod Cooley, Co-Chair of PARC at a prize giving

ceremony which took place on Friday 1st March 2024.

Local charity, PARC (Playpark Action Rothamsted Committee), ran the very popular competition to

help promote their fundraising campaign for the much-needed redevelopment of Rothamsted Park’s

Skatepark. PARC, together with Harpenden Town Council, hope to create a modern, inclusive facility

with good wheelchair access, features for all abilities and ages, and suitability for different users

including skateboards, BMX bikes, WCMX (adapted wheelchairs), and scooters.

The prize giving event was sponsored and hosted by Thompson’s Gallery, Church Green in

Harpenden, who welcomed winners: Genevieve from Harpenden Academy school winner of the 7

years and under category; Florrie from Katherine Warrington School winner of the 8-11 years

category; and Galax from Roundwood Park School winner of the 12-16 age group. Each winner was

delighted to see their design come to life as a skateboard.

Deputy Mayor of Harpenden Cllr Pip Liver said, “Congratulations to all of the winners of this exciting competition and well done to everyone who took part as the standard of creativity is incredible. The Town Council is very pleased to be working with PARC on such a worthwhile project; the skatepark provides such an important facility to so many young people in particular. Thank you to PARC members who are working incredibly hard to fundraise; their dedication to this project deserves our upmost respect and admiration. Together with PARC, I would like to encourage Rothamsted Park users, residents and local businesses to get in touch if they are able to support the fundraising appeal, even small donations are so important.”

Andrew Hingston, PARC Trustee, said, “We would like to thank the Thompson’s Gallery owner Megan Thompson for funding the manufacture of the winning skateboards and for hosting the prize giving event. Thompson’s Gallery is a great example of a Harpenden business supporting a local charity and we hope that other Harpenden businesses will also sponsor PARC. We would also like to thank everyone who entered

the competition and were thrilled to have received so many entries. The winning designs feature

imaginative concepts, fabulous use of colour and individual style.”

The overall budget for the new skatepark is £250,000 with Harpenden Town Council committing £100K and the remainder relying on local fundraising.

PARC is making progress with raising funds but needs more help from local people and businesses to make the Skatepark a reality. Options to help fund this project include buying a brick which would be personalised with a name, street name, group’s name or whatever you choose, and the charity has also set up a text service: text SKATE to 70450 to donate £20 or NEW to 70450 to donate £10.

There is also a donor board where businesses can display their company logo for a donation.

Further information can be found on PARC’s donations website: www.parc.charity/donate

email emailparc@gmail.com or call 07955 027524.

PARC is a registered charity (No. 1179147) established in July 2018 by a group of Harpenden parents

and grandparents, initially formed to raise £250 000 to redesign and replace Harpenden’s flagship

playpark, situated in Rothamsted Park. PARC raised £110,000 through their fundraising efforts and

with the support of Harpenden Town Council, who pledged a further £150,000, the play area was

completed and opened to the public in July 2021.

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Helping Hornbeam Wood Hedgehog Sanctuary

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 23:30:20 GMT

Hedgehog Sanctuary needs your help!

Hornbeam Wood Hedgehog Sanctuary needs your help!

This local family run registered charity looks after Wild Hedgehogs and is based in Harpenden. They cover Harpenden and the surrounding areas. The charity rehabilitates wild hedgehogs and orphaned baby hoglets that are sick, injured, or underweight.

They are desperate for a new sit on lawnmower to maintain the meadows, fields, and paths and have started a crowdfunding project aimed at raising £3,300.

Their fundraiser Donation Link can be found here: https://www.avivacommunityfund.co.uk/p/new-lawnmower-hedgehog-sanctuary and 100% of donations go to help the hedgehogs.

Their old sit on lawnmower has given up on and although they have tried to maintain and fix it continuously over the past 8 years or so, it is now at the end of its life This old lawnmower was originally very kindly donated to the Charity by a local Scout group.

It is a vital bit of machinery that helps to maintain many areas at the sanctuary and allow access to fields and meadows and upkeep, but they don't have the funds to replace it.

Please help them to reach their goal - any donation amount is greatly appreciated. Aviva will match fund any unique donation up to £250 pounds too.

Please do help to spread the word as any support will be a great help. The santuary is hoping to raise enough funds to purchase a new John Deere X107 42 107cm Deck Lawn Tractor.

Registered Charity No. 1190048

The Harpende n Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative to support local people. It's provided as a 'not-for-profit' initiative by local family business Big Buzz Solutions and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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February Update from our Sponsors

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 22:03:35 GMT

A Guide to Year End Tax Planning

We often talk about developments within our business and our involvement in community projects and we are looking forward to supporting many of those again this year, so watch this space to hear about those in future posts.

This post focusses on our core activities which is helping clients make better financial decisions. February and March are typically busy months of the year for Lyndhurst as we look to help clients identify planning opportunities in the lead up to the tax year end on the 5 ^th of April 2024.

We have A Guide To Year-End Tax Planning on our website that helps to identify some of the key financial planning and tax planning areas to consider in the lead up to the tax year end.

For people who are fortunate enough to have accumulated large pension pots and are over 55 there are some key considerations regarding the recent changes to the lifetime allowance. The industry as a whole including our advisers and technical team are busy understanding the impact of the changes and we have a number of training sessions organised to ensure we can fully communicate the options available to those affected. If you feel you might be affected, then please get in touch.

In other areas, our team have been investigating the use of pensions to help those who have young children and earnings in excess of the limits for free childcare. The rules around free childcare are set to change and for people with children under the age of 4 there are some key dates and earning thresholds to be aware of. We have looked at some case studies of people earning over £100,000 who would normally lose out on additional childcare allowances making pension contributions before the Tax-Year End, to regain access to the additional free childcare. If you fall into this category and wish for our team to crunch some numbers and explore your options please get in touch.

It is also important to consider if you are a higher rate taxpayer and have made personal pension contributions in the tax year, possibly through a work scheme, depending on how the contributions have been made, you may be able to claim a portion of the tax back with a simple letter to HMRC if you don’t currently submit a tax return.

The above is just a flavour of some of the challenges faced and some planning opportunities to understand. Please recognise this doesn’t constitute advice as individual circumstances are different in every case we look at, so seeking the right advice for you is what is important. Our friendly advisers are happy to help or point you in the right direction.

Lyndhurst Financial Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

The tax implications of pension withdrawals will be based on your individual circumstances, tax legislation and regulation which are subject to change. You should seek advice to understand your options at retirement. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax planning.

Adam Cook

Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

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Our new Social Media Superstar

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 19:42:34 GMT

Meet Amy - our New Social Media Superstar

We're delighted to welcome Amy Saunders to our team at The Harpenden Guide to support our social media updates and posts. Amy will be working to grow our social media following and to keep people up-to-date on all things Harpenden.

Amy has been working as a self employed content creator and social media manager since May 2023 under her business brand of 'Pink Amy'. She has been in the marketing industry since 2021 where she started her journey at Amber Mountain Marketing. You can find out more about Amy and her business here - https://pinkamy.co.uk

Amy said 'I'm delighted to be able to volunteer my time to this exciting local community initiative and am really looking forward to helping grow this and keeping local people up-to-date with all things Harpenden. I love working to support small businesses and being able to support the local community as part of this is great too. The Harpenden Guide has already attracted a strong following and I'm looking forward to helping grow that over the coming months'.

Peter Barker, Founder of The Harpenden Guide said 'We're delighted that Amy has come on board to help us grow the awareness of the Harpenden Guide Community App. We started this voluntary project as a local community initiative during Covid and it continues to go from strength to strength. With well over 4,000 people having already downloaded the Harpenden Guide App, we know that Amy's experience and creative insight will help us continue growing this important local community resource'.

Keep your eyes out on our Instagram , Twitter (X) , Facebook and LinkedIn channels for future updates.

The Harpenden Guide Community App is a free local resource and community initiative provided by Big Buzz Solutions . It can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

January Update from our Sponsors

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 09:28:16 GMT

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year

Happy new year from all at Lyndhurst, we hope you had an enjoyable time over the festive period and, like us, are raring to make 2024 a memorable year.

Before looking forward to the year ahead let’s reflect on 2023 and some of the good news that often doesn’t get much media coverage.

China’s carbon emissions are likely to start falling in 2024 a full six years ahead of when emissions were originally predicted to peak. The reason for this epochal shift? The country’s unprecedented buildout of 300 GW of solar and wind in 2023, almost double that of 2022. It’s the largest ever single deployment of energy in our species’ history!

In March of last year, 193 countries reached a landmark deal to protect the world’s oceans in what Greenpeace called “the greatest conservation victory of all time”.

So, despite the tragic wars that continue to blight our planet there are some really good news stories out there. (I have another sixty four of them!).

At Lyndhurst we have been helping our clients make a difference through fund managers that invest their money in a range of private and public enterprises that develop renewable energy, lease new ambulances to the NHS and many other sustainable strategies.

So, what of 2024?

Well, it’s the time of the year for making resolutions although at my age the best I can do is “don’t buy green bananas!”. Many of our clients take the time to review their personal and financial objectives with their Lyndhurst consultant and make any changes needed based on their personal circumstances.

In terms for the financial world one major change will come on the 6th April when the pension Lifetime Allowance is abolished, as ever the legislation is more complex than the simple headline and we recommend that you review the impact on your financial plans with your financial adviser. (The Finance Bill has a hundred pages dealing with the subject!).

Another major discussion point is the direction of interest rates and the impact on those with mortgages. I’m not in the business of crystal ball gazing but we are already seeing some of the big mortgage providers reducing their rates on certain products in an attempt to gain market share, I expect that will continue throughout the year.

And finally, good news story for 2024 is that malaria vaccines have arrived in Africa, the holy grail of global health, and UNICEF will start distributing to millions of kids during the year.

From all at Lyndhurst we wish you a very happy new year!

Geoff Newman

Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

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All the Christmas Fun in Harpenden

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 20:16:08 GMT

Festive Fun in Harpenden

Wow, can you believe it? We're cruising into December faster than Santa's sleigh!

And guess what?

We've got something super special brewing in the Harpenden Guide Community App just in time for the most wonderful time of the year!

Picture this: a one-stop festive guide right at your fingertips.

Once again this year we've scoured the local area to find out wha't happening and we've whipped up an awesome 'Festive Fun in Harpenden' feature in the Harpenden Guide Community App that rounds up everything you need to know about the local Christmas buzz in Harpenden.

From where to find Santa's local hideouts to the lowdown on all the local Xmas events and festivities plus details of events, pantomimes and music too.

So, if you're ready to get into the festive spirit, make sure you download The Harpenden Guide App to your mobile device and dive into the new 'Festive Fun in Harpenden' feature for the lowdown on all the details,

Don't miss out on the merry moments and let the Xmas magic begin.

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Harpenden Publican Receives Prestigious Award

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 23:52:28 GMT

Pub Award for The Engineer

The publicans of a much-loved Harpenden local have received a prestigious award to mark more than two decades at the helm.

The award from the pub’s owners – Star Pubs & Bars – recognises the contribution that Harpenden born-and-bred Pete Mann and Mike Fisher – who comes from St Albans – have made to The Engineer on St John’s Road and the community since taking over in 2002.

Pete was just 23 and a regular of The Engineer when the duo took it on. Recalls Pete, who lives down the road from pub: “I’ve known the Engineer all my life – it’s a lovely pub and was where I had my first pint with my friends as young man, so it’s very special to me. I’ve worked in pubs since my early teens and, when The

Engineer became available, I jumped at the chance to take it on with Mike and give it the new lease of life it needed to keep it thriving for the long-term.”

Over the years, Pete and Mike have remained true to their goal, investing more than £750,000 to turn The Engineer into a top quality local that caters for all ages and occasions. The pub – which dates back to the 1860s* – now boasts: a spacious bar with comfy sofas; a separate sports bar kitted out with darts and screens showing Sky and TNT Sports; a dog-friendly family room complete with board games, and an

elegant dining and function room that hosts family celebrations, ranging from birthdays to baby showers for local residents.

During the challenges of the pandemic, Mike and Pete refused to “call time”. Instead they gave the garden a major makeover so it was ready to welcome people back when restrictions allowed. As well as a teepee and outside bar, the garden has heated and lighted pods, a pretty terrace and two grassed areas, one with a wendy house where children can play.

Whilst The Engineer is known for pulling a perfect pint and its freshly prepared food – the Sunday roasts, house burger and fish & chips are favourites – the friendliness of its 26 staff is another a major reason why customers remain loyal. Many have been regulars for well over 20 years and three generations of some Harpenden families frequent the pub.

Mike and Pete put on a host of activities to bring residents together, including quiz and music nights. The duo also support the wider town, helping run the Harpenden beer festival, sponsoring the cricket club and donating to schools.

Adds Pete: “We never thought we’d be here this long and now can’t envisage leaving. We still love running The Engineer, and that’s down to our fantastic staff and customers. Like any good local, there are lots of laughs and fun, but people look out for each other and help each other through any difficulties. Our customers are incredibly supportive of the pub; we can’t thank them enough.”

Comments Dan Hayward, Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager for Harpenden: “This is a very well deserved award. Pete and Mike care about the community and have put their all into The Engineer, creating an outstanding pub that meets everyone’s needs. They never rest on their laurels and are always coming up with new ideas to keep The Engineer at the top of its game. We wish them many more happy years behind

the bar.”

* Believed to have been built by 1865, The Engineer is said by some locals to have originally been called ‘The Bird in Hand’ but become known as The Engineer after the nearby railway from London to Bedford was built in 1868.

December Update from our Sponsors

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 12:55:19 GMT

Wishing you all a very Happy Xmas

It’s that time of year again, the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement has come and gone and we are in the final few weeks before Christmas, when Lyndhurst offices will be closed from 23 ^rd December until the 2 ^nd of January.

Reflecting on the announcements in the autumn statement, thousands of words have been written in the media and so I won’t repeat them, other than to pick out one area that may well have been missed by some but could have a long term effect on pension savings.

In the Spring Jeremy Hunt announced the abolition of the lifetime allowance on pension contributions and this November he followed up with proposals to give workers the right to nominate which pension plan their employer pays their pension contributions to.

With increased mobility of the workforce the number of small pension pots has increased significantly and according to estimates there are 20 million inactive pension pots of less than £10,000 representing around £30bn in savings.

At Lyndhurst we have been helping our clients consolidate their various pensions into one manageable pot for many years and will continue to do. We do welcome the proposals although for smaller companies this could be quite an administrative burden, only time will tell.

I’ll finish by congratulating our MP, Bim Afolami, on his appointment to the post of Economic Secretary to the Treasury following in the footsteps of his predecessor Lord Lilley and wishing all in the Lyndhurst family a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.

Geoff Newman

Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

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The Postbox Toppers are coming...

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 23:26:01 GMT

We're supporting this year's fundraiser

The local Xmas campaign to spread some joy around the local area in St Albans and Harpenden is back for it's sixth year - and we're getting involved once again...

Since it's inception this fabulous community initiative has raised over £100,000 for worthy local causes. This year the team are aiming for more toppers and raising even more for their two chosen charities – Herts Mind Network and Cancer Hair Care .

They'll be over 50 post boxes 'topped' as part of this fabulous event and Harpenden will be an important part of this fun-filled festive activity with around 7 post boxes in the town being suitably dressed for the festive period too.

And The Harpenden Guide is getting involved too and sponsoring the postbox in the town centre (outside Bar Azita)...

And you and your business can get involved too.

Sponsor a Postbox

There are still a number of local postboxes in Harpenden and St Albans that will be decorated and given a festive make over so if you'd like to get involved and sponsor one of this year's Harpenden Postbox Toppers simply e-mail the team at hq@stalbanspostboxes.org.uk to register for one and make the donation on the link below...

This is a fabulous local campaign to raise money for worthy local causes so please do help spread the word. You can find out all the details here...

https://www.stalbanspostboxes.org.uk /

Follow the Trail

There will be a great festive trail to follow to find all the local toppers (there will be over 50 in St Albans and Harpenden) so it's a great fun way to enjoy a family day out.

All the details about the trail and a map showing their location can be found here - https://www.stalbanspostboxes.org.uk/find-a-postbox/ .

All the money goes directly to the chosen charities so please do get involved.

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Compassionate Cafe launches in Harpenden

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 22:37:17 GMT

The Compassionate Café is launched

The Harpenden Guide is delighted to share the following details about the launch of a fabulous new community resource - The Compassionate Cafe.

The cafe is being launched by Rennie Grove Peace Hospice in collaboration with the Harpenden Trust and aims to provide a space for local people who have been affected by bereavement or any kind of loss to meet others by coming together for a coffee and a chat.

The cafe opens for the first time on Tuesday, 7 November 2023, and will then be open on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 2:00 to 3:30 PM.

The Café is open to all and the gatherings are designed to provide a sanctuary where individuals can connect and chat over a comforting cup of tea. Volunteers, trained by the skilled team at Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care, will guide each session.

The initiative is not new to Herts. Having witnessed the positive impact of such cafés in Watford and beyond since December 2021, the expansion into Harpenden brings this valuable resource into our local fold. The approach is simple yet profound: come as you are, stay for as long as you wish, and leave when you're ready, no referrals or bookings needed.

Sara, one of the volunteers at the Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care Compassionate Café says:

“The cafes are a friendly and safe environment for people to meet others and have a chat. They are a great way of making friends or being signposted to local events of interest. I find that the sessions give people an opportunity to talk about their loss or bereavement and how they are coping. People really benefit from the peer support of sharing with others who are going through something similar. Compassionate Cafés are open to everybody – you don’t need to be referred to them or book a space in advance – you can just come when you want, stay for as long as you need and go when you want”

Alison May, Community Engagement Manager at Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care, says:

“It has been wonderful to see the impact our Compassionate Cafés have had on both volunteers and attendees in our existing locations, so we’re really looking forward to bringing this to Harpenden.

“The cafes are very informal in structure – they’re not a support group or counselling session – but people who come along tell us that they get a huge amount out of the peer support, and the chance to meet other people who understand their loss. I’d encourage anybody in the area who has experienced any type of bereavement or loss to come along to the sessions and see what they can take away from them.”

For more information on the Compassionate Café, click here or email compassion@renniegrovepeace.org , or call 01923 330 330.

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Fireworks Displays in and around Harpenden

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 19:14:51 GMT

Get Ready to Light Up November with Harpenden's Fireworks Spectaculars!

Hey there, Harpenden folks! As the chilly November breeze begins to sweep through our lovely town, it's time to gear up for the most exciting and colorful events of the season - fireworks displays!

Let's take a peek at some of the dazzling displays happening right here in Harpenden. Full details are available in the 'What's On' feature in the Harpenden Guide Community App (download details below).

1. Katherine Warrington School - November 3rd, 6-8 pm

The Katherine Warrington School fireworks display on November 3rd promises to kick off the season with a bang. Bring your family and friends for an evening filled with awe-inspiring pyrotechnics. Includes special low bang fireworks for those who want to avoid deafening bangs.

2. Redbourn Fireworks - November 4th, 5 pm

The skies over Redbourn will light up on November 4th. Gather at 5 pm for a fantastic fireworks show and enjoy a wonderful evening with your loved ones.

3. Crabtree School Fireworks - November 4th, 5:30 pm

On the same night, Crabtree School is joining the fireworks party with their display at 5:30 pm. It's double the fun on November 4th!

4. St Albans Fireworks - November 4th, 6:00 pm

Come and enjoy this spectacular display in Verulamium Park, in aid of local charities Youth Talk and Open Door St Albans.

5. Harpenden Rugby Club Fireworks - November 5th, 4 pm

Get ready for the big night at Harpenden Rugby Club on November 5th, starting at 4 pm. Enjoy fireworks, food, and fun!

6. Wheathamsted Fireworks - November 5th, 4:30 pm

Wheathamsted will light up the evening on November 5th with their fireworks display at 4:30 pm. Don't miss this spectacular show!

For all the nitty-gritty details, including ticket prices and event schedules, you can find everything you need in the Harpenden Guide Community App. It's your one-stop resource for all things Harpenden and a handy addition to your mobile phone.

Download it today and stay in the loop with the heartbeat of our community. Let's make this November unforgettable, one explosion of colour at a time!

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Christmas is a coming in Harpenden

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 07:54:56 GMT

Will you be the best dressed this Xmas?

Mayor extends invitation to join Christmas Carnival Procession and offers prize for “Best Dressed”

Cllr Fiona Gaskell, Mayor of Harpenden has extended an invitation to join this year’s Christmas Carnival to all organisations, groups, clubs and societies and is also offering a prize to the 'Best Dressed'.

Over the years, the Carnival Procession has become a spectacular display of creativity and fun and it is hoped that this year’s theme 'Homemade Magic of Christmas' will again inspire interesting and colourful interpretations! From hospital beds, a former Mayor’s ponies and brownies in costumes made of recycled bags, the procession has brought out the best of community spirit and joyful celebration.

The procession will take place at the Carnival on Sunday 26th November at 3pm. Led by the Pipes and Drums, closely followed by Santa and his Elves, this is an opportunity for local groups to join this exciting Harpenden Christmas tradition!

Cllr Fiona Gaskell, Mayor of Harpenden said “The Christmas Carnival Procession is a wonderful opportunity to take part in this exciting festive event; we’re inviting all organisations to dress up, have fun and promote your group while joining in the traditional display.”

The Mayor will select a winner of Best Dressed and award a £100 voucher of the winner’s choice.

Information and the online application form is available on the Town Council’s website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

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Harpenden Charity Fashion Show

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 22:22:29 GMT

Harpenden's Preloved Fashion Show

Are you ready for an unforgettable evening of fashion, style, and giving back?

Mark your calendars for the Harpenden Preloved Fashion Show, hosted by Lou Murphy Style, on November 3rd. This much-anticipated event promises an exciting lineup that's sure to make your heart race and your fashion-loving soul sing.

A Runway of Reimagined Elegance

One of the show's main attractions is the mesmerizing Fashion Show, where a carefully curated collection of preloved outfits takes centre stage. As they strut down the cat walk, these unique pieces come to life, showcasing the beauty of sustainable fashion. Lou Murphy Styles will deliver a spectacular display that's bound to inspire your inner trendsetter.

Expert Insights on Sustainable Fashion

At the heart of this event is the mission to promote sustainable fashion. Karen, the Personal Stylist and Colour Analyst from Style by KPA, will share her wealth of knowledge on sustainable fashion and styling. Discover how to make eco-conscious choices while looking and feeling your best. Karen's insights will not only transform your wardrobe but also your perspective on fashion.

Shop Your Way to a Greener Wardrobe

Harpenden's "sustainable market" is a must-visit for anyone looking to embrace eco-friendly fashion. Browse the pop-up shops and explore a variety of sustainable options to elevate your style while minimizing your environmental footprint. This is your chance to find one-of-a-kind pieces that resonate with your unique style and values.

A Chance to Win and Give

Don't forget to participate in the fabulous raffle! There's a world of exciting prizes waiting to be claimed, and your ticket might just lead to a lucky win. Plus, the best part of the evening is that you get to enjoy it with friends and the local community, all while contributing to a noble cause. The event supports 12 remarkable local charities, making it a win-win for everyone.

The Harpenden Preloved Fashion Show is more than just a fashion event; it's a celebration of style, sustainability, and community spirit. This is an opportunity to come together with friends, indulge in a night of fashion-forward fun, and make a meaningful contribution to the community.

Make sure you secure your tickets now, as they are sure to sell out fast.

You can get all the details from the website here...

Join us on November 3rd for an evening that's not just about what you wear but also how you care.

Together, let's redefine fashion, one preloved piece at a time, and create a more sustainable, stylish, and compassionate world. We can't wait to see you there!

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Harpenden Common Nature Trail

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 13:56:42 GMT

Harpenden Common Trails

Hey there, welcome to the wonderful world of Harpenden Common! ��

If you're looking for a slice of natural beauty on our doorstep in Harpenden, you've hit the jackpot. The Common is a true gem, offering nearly two miles of scenic splendor and a whole lot more.

But did you know Harpenden Town Council has created some fabulous Nature Trails?

This 3.9-mile adventure is split into four fantastic trails that are perfect for all abilities. ��‍♀️��‍♂️

First things first, you can grab a nifty leaflet with a map, insider's guide, and a special "Tree Trail" feature from the Town Hall. Or you can download them here too...

Download the Harpenden Nature Trail Leaflet here...

Download the Nature Trail Map here...

Download the Tree Trail Map here...

Now, let's talk trails:

�� Yellow Trail (1.2 Miles): This one's for folks who prefer shorter strolls near the town. It's nice and flat, taking you through Harpenden's Coronation Meadow, part of the Queen's campaign to revive the UK's wildflower meadows. You'll be surrounded by nature's finest sights and sounds.

�� Blue Trail (2.3 Miles): Get ready to explore our orchard and the rare acid grassland of the region. Plus, take a trip back in time to Harpenden's sports history, featuring golf, football, and cricket clubs that go way back. You might even spot the old horseracing paddock where races were held between 1830 and 1914.

�� Red Trail (3.7 Miles): This one's all about the magic of woodlands and the beautiful colors and fragrances of our trees. It's the full Common experience, complete with interpretation boards and info points. Along the way, you'll pass the golf course, witness heathland restoration, spot orchids in the hayfield, and find a haven for wildfowl at Southdown Ponds.

�� Horse Ride (3.9 Miles): Calling all equestrians and cyclists! This is the only trail on the Common specifically designated for horse riding and cycling. It's undergone some nifty improvements in the last three years, making it more accessible for everyone. Just a heads-up: while you're out and about, be mindful of your fellow Common-goers, especially around the golf course and the horse ride.

So there you have it, your guide to the Nature Trail on Harpenden Common. Get out there, explore, and enjoy the beauty of Harpenden's natural wonders! ��

The Harpenden Nature Trails are provided by Harpenden Town Council - more details can be found here - https://www.harpenden.gov.uk/harpenden-common/naturetrail

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Harpenden Skate Park Fundraising Appeal

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 18:13:18 GMT

Harpenden Charity Champions Skatepark Fundraising Appeal

Skateparks are a place for people of all ages and abilities to socialise, exercise outdoors, challenge themselves and enjoy local green spaces. They are unique in providing an alternative outdoor meeting area, particularly for young people, and it is for these reasons and more that its redevelopment of the Skatepark in Harpenden’s Rothamsted Park is hugely important.

Harpenden charity PARC (Playpark Action Rothamsted Committee) is working with Harpenden Town Council towards this much needed redevelopment. Designs accommodating the need for an inviting and inclusive space with good wheelchair access, features for all abilities and ages, and suitability for different users including skateboards, BMX bikes, WCMX (adapted wheelchairs), scooters and roller skates, were agreed earlier this year.

The overall budget for the new skatepark is £250,000 with Harpenden Town Council committing £100,000 and the remainder relying on local fundraising. PARC is making progress with raising funds but needs more help from local people and businesses to make the Skatepark a reality.

PARC representative Rod Cooley said, “We are asking businesses, local organisations and park users if they could sponsor this important redevelopment; there are various options to help with this and every penny will help us in achieving our goals.”

Options to help fund this project include buying a brick for £100 which would be personalised with a name, street name, group’s name or whatever you choose, and the charity has also set up a text service: text SKATE to 70450 to donate £20 or NEW to 70450 to donate £10. PARC is asking local businesses to sponsor the skatepark.

Any donation would be welcome, but if businesses can donate £2,500 their company name and logo will be put on a sponsor board to be located next to the new skatepark. There is space for ten business names and logos on the sponsor board.

PARC is a registered charity (No. 1179147) established in July 2018 by a group of Harpenden parents and grandparents, initially formed to raise £250, 000 to redesign and replace Harpenden’s flagship playpark, situated in Rothamsted Park. PARC raised £110, 000 through their fundraising efforts and with the support of Harpenden Town Council, who pledged a further £150, 000, the play area was completed and opened to the public in July 2021.

Further information can be found on PARC’s donations website: www.parc.charity/donate email emailparc@gmail.com or call 07955 027524.

The Harpenden Guide Community App is a free local resource and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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October Update from our Sponsors

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 20:55:32 GMT

Once month and counting...

With just one month to go until the Harpenden Personal Finance Conference there is still time to register. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a fantastic morning.

The value of advice in ensuring our security and that of future generations Rothamsted Research Conference Centre, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ.

Friday 20 ^th October 2023

8:45am to 1:30pm – buffet lunch included

Why attend the Lyndhurst Personal Finance Conference?

If you want to make the most out of your financial situation and are considering suitable planning opportunities to invest and protect your wealth now or in the future, then this event is for you.

This year's conference promises to be the biggest and best yet with registrations already exceeding where we were last year at this point. We do still have places available, and we would love for you to be there.

The closing date for registrations is Tuesday 10 ^th October 2023 to ensure we can provide everyone with their dietary requirements for the buffet lunch which is included as part of the event.

We have a fantastic lineup of speakers and presenters including investment experts, solicitors and the Lyndhurst team. Further details are on our website https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/harpenden-personal-finance-conference-2023/ .

Five things you will gain from the event

Reassurance - Whatever your situation there are tried and tested solutions to help you achieve better outcomes.

Insights – You will receive insights into investment trends and discover ways and means to position your investments for the future.

New Ideas – You will gain fresh thoughts and considerations on ways to accumulate wealth and protect your assets.

Inspiration – Our speakers will inspire you to better understand the opportunity to plan and invest in ways that can protect not only you and your family’s wealth but also the planet.

Strength and community – You will see firsthand the strength of the Lyndhurst team but also the resources and experts we engage with to develop our solutions and support our clients.

Event Registration

To reserve your place, please send an email with your name, contact details and any dietary requirements to Sarah Quiggin sarahquiggin@lyndhurstfm.co.uk . Alternatively, you can call our head office on 01582 715777. We welcome friends and family so please indicate if you wish to bring a guest and also include their details. Please ensure your registration is received by the closing date of 10th October 2023.

We very much look forward to welcoming you on the 20 ^th of October 2023.

Adam Cook

Operations Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Harpenden Business Buzz Launched

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 21:15:47 GMT

New Business Networking Group

A new business networking group launched in Harpenden on 28th September. #HarpendenBuzz will be a monthly group meeting in the Harpenden Arms.

Business Buzz Harpenden is a fresh vibe in business networking. This face-to-face drop-in session is a great way to catch up with the local business community in Hertfordshire.

There’s no membership, no pre-booking required, just £8 + VAT payable in advance, or at the event.

Meeting every fourth Thursday of each month between 10am-12pm.

It was a great atmosphere in the room with over 40 local businesses coming together to network and make new connections.

There's more details here...

#HarpendenBuzz #BusinessNetworking

Harpenden Draft Local Plan Proposals

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 21:05:11 GMT

Harpenden Draft Local Plan Proposal

Harpenden residents can review the new Draft Harpenden Local Plan proposals from SADC at Rothamsted Conference Centre restaurant where a mini exhibition is being held from 2pm - 8pm on 13th September.

Chris Briggs Spatial Planning Manager from SADC headed the team on hand to answer questions and give guidance.

Harpenden residents are asked to read the Plan in detail and respond with their views across a wide range of issues listed in the Questionnaire by Sept 25.

People can view the relevant documents, complete a survey and provide detailed feedback through a questionnaire here: https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/new-local-plan

Article Courtesy of Harpendia

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September Update from our Sponsors

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:15:41 GMT

Harpenden Personal Finance Conference

The summer holidays are now over for many, with children returning to school and typically the weather is now blazing sunshine across Hertfordshire.

Personally, despite a fair few days of rain, August was a great opportunity to spend some time with my family surrounded by nature on various trips around the UK. At ages 8 and 4 they are growing up fast and in their play and games, I am always surprised at how much they already understand about our world and the environment around them. It is important to protect this environment and invest in ourselves to understand what we can do to ensure our security and that of future generations.

That leads me to invite you to our 4 ^th Harpenden Personal Finance Conference at Rothamsted Research Conference Center on the morning of the 20 ^th of October 2023.

Our Conference this year is a follow-up to last year’s intergenerational theme which was so well-received but with a different spread of subjects within intergenerational planning and long-term planning. Our intention is that in these uncertain times the messages to come from our speakers will offer reassurance and outline the solutions we use to help plan, invest and protect yourself, your family and future generations.

Full details can be found on our website https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/harpenden-personal-finance-conference-2023/ .

If you are interested in attending please email sarahquiggin@lyndhurstfm.co.uk to book your space.

Myself and the Lyndhurst team hope to see you there.

Adam Cook

Operations Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Harpenden Food & Drink Festival

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 10:28:40 GMT

Harpenden’s Food and Drink Festival returns this September!

Harpenden Town Council is delighted to announce the return of the Harpenden Food and Drink Festival on Saturday 16th September, 12-6pm. This exciting event is always hugely popular, bringing vibrancy and energy to the Town, showcasing the very best of food and drink.

This year’s Festival promises to be another fantastic day for all; thousands of people are expected to attend the event which will be situated across the Town Centre and Harpenden Common.

Not only will the occasion include more than 70 street food and fresh market produce stalls, it will also feature several bar areas, ferret racing, street entertainment, outdoor community seating areas, a DJ on the Concourse, a live Music Stage and the ever popular Children’s Zone.

Harpenden Town Mayor, Cllr Fiona Gaskell said: “The Harpenden Food and Drink Festival presents an opportunity to enjoy some exceptional food and drinks in Harpenden’s wonderful Town Centre and Common, of which we are so proud. We are delighted that so many local businesses will be taking part together with a diverse range of entertainment. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors of all ages to this exciting Festival.”

New for 2023 is the Orange Bar, specialising in summer cocktails, and a fabulous range of street entertainment. Regular visitors to the event will also notice that the Beer Festival will be situated on Harpenden Common, bringing it to the hub of the Festival.

The exciting Children’s Zone will include Cha Char Chimps, award winning interactive musical fun show, Addiventure Play, ArtShed and FizzBug providing arts, crafts and cake and biscuit decorating, and St Albans Bouncy Castle Soft Play will provide further soft play.

The Cookery Theatre, an exciting demonstration stage featuring exceptionally talented guest Chefs, returns and will provide the perfect opportunity to pick recipes, tips and watch the masters at work. The Cookery Theatre line up includes:

12noon Shaanaaz Ayub: Celebrity Chef and author which she manages around her law career, Shaanaaz will be cooking her outstanding vegetable pakora wrap and chilli paneer.
1pm Patti Sloley: Returning to the Festival, we’re delighted to welcome back Patti’s exciting creations and her
infections enthusiasm and energy. She’ll be cooking black eye beans with salted cod and oven baked plantain.
2pm Daniel Fletcher, Vinsanto: Simple recipes using fresh seasonal ingredients from this local favourite food and wine enthusiast.
3pm Matt Dreyer, Bar Azita: A cocktail masterclass from Harpenden’s premier cocktail mixologist.
4pm Oliver Denley, Brad & Dills: Harpenden’s coffee expert demonstrating aeropress and pour over coffee.
5pm Ben Harris: Ben returns as the Cookery Theatre’s Compère, once again bringing creativity and engaging demonstrations and advice to our stage.

Bring your family and friends along for a magnificent day in Harpenden!

Further information about this event, including the event programme, is available on the Harpenden Town Council website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

Free parking will be available at the Station Car Parks for the duration of the event, with thanks to Thameslink.

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August Update from our Sponsors

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 21:51:47 GMT

Local merger finalised...

Pictured – Jermey Eyre – Finance Director at Lyndhurst Financial Management Limited and Veryl Joe of Herts and Essex Financial Services Limited

This month we're delighted to announce that Hitchin based Financial Planner, Veryl Joe, has agreed to merge the business of Herts and Essex Financial Services Limited with Lyndhurst Financial Management Limited, effective 1st August 2023.

Veryl, who has spent the last 2 years researching the local market to find a suitable partner commented “I am excited to be joining with Lyndhurst, whose investment research capability and client servicing technology are first class. I have taken this decision as a result of the increasing administrative demands of running a regulated financial services business and by joining Lyndhurst more of our time will be freed up to spend with our clients”.

Adam Cook, Operations Director of Lyndhurst said “We are delighted Veryl and his team have joined the Lyndhurst family. Veryl shares in our values and will be an ideal fit to help accelerate our business expansion in Hitchin, helping more clients to plan, invest and protect their financial well-being.”

Lyndhurst was founded in 1992 in Harpenden and has had a presence in Hitchin since 2015. The Hitchin office now has 5 financial planners and 7 support staff. In total across the business as a whole, they have a strong management team and a complement of 40 staff, including 16 financial planners and 2 mortgage specialists.

Lyndhurst is a modern, independent financial planning firm with a range of services and solutions to suit clients of all generations and levels of wealth. Loyalty is one of their values and it has enabled them to support their clients through many of the challenges faced throughout their lifetime.

Lyndhurst specialises in helping clients prepare for retirement and understand their retirement options and is also increasingly focused on supporting families to effectively manage the passing of wealth to their children or grandchildren. In the current climate, their expert mortgage team are busy helping clients to understand the impact of the recent interest rate rises and the best options when purchasing or

remortgaging their properties.

Adam Cook
Operations Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Rothamsted Tennis Court Relaunch

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 20:55:53 GMT

Tennis Court Relaunch

To celebrate the relaunch of the Rothamsted Park tennis courts, Harpenden Town Council is organising an exciting event on Saturday 22 ^nd July, 10am to 12noon. Free coaching taster sessions are on offer, as well as food and drinks stalls and craft activities for children. We are also delighted to announce that the Mayor of Harpenden, Cllr Fiona Gaskell, will be officially opening the courts at 10am.

Since the Town Council’s acquisition of the courts, we have been working hard to make big improvements: installing new nets, professionally jet washing and conducting moss treatment to ensure the playing surface is of the quality you would expect, overgrown hedging and scrub from the rear of the courts has been cleared, and grass areas cut so that tennis balls can be easily retrieved. The most significant change to the courts is the installation of a partially funded Lawn Tennis Association ClubSpark booking and automated gate system which enables the courts to be booked and accessed easily by members of the public at their own leisure (visit: Rothamsted Park / Rothamsted Harpenden Hertfordshire Elliswick Amenbury Menace (lta.org.uk) . An upgrade to the floodlighting system is also planned for later this year.

The Rothamsted Tennis Court Re-Launch event is organised to coincide with the Lawn Tennis Association’s Big Tennis Weekends, in association with the Lawn Tennis Association and our free tennis coaches ‘Park Tennis’.

Whether you’re already a committed tennis fan, or would just like to know more about this fantastic local facility, we hope you will join us!

Information about the event is available on the Town Council’s website: www.harpenden.gov.uk and updates will be shared on our social media channels. If you would like to know more about Rothamsted Park, the tennis courts and other facilities visit: https://www.harpenden.gov.uk/green-spaces/rothamsted-park

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July Update from our Sponsors

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 14:43:11 GMT

We've been nominated...

I can't believe it's already July - where is the year going! June was a month of events and we were delighted to be involved with a number of local events (see the June blog for details).

This month I'd like to share some exciting news with you as we are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted in the 2023 Investment Life and Pensions Moneyfacts awards for 'Investment Adviser of the Year'.

As a local business we strive hard to ensure that our team support our clients and provide solid advice so this award is recognition of our commitment to that goal. We are proud of our internal investment team and this is excellent recognition of their achievements.

Find out more here: https://www.moneyfactsgroup.co.uk/awards-and-events/ilp/shortlist/

The finals are in September so we'll keep everything crossed and let you know how we get on!

Have a good July - I hope the sun shines for us all!

Adam Cook
Operations Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Summer begins at the Harpenden Carnival

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 07:58:08 GMT

Free entertainment and activity for all

Harpenden’s Round Table and Harpenden Town Council is excited to again work in partnership on the 56th Harpenden Summer Carnival which will take place on Saturday 17 th June, 12-6pm. This event is always a highlight of the Town’s calendar and the partnership is looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors back to this wonderful occasion!

The Round Table volunteers have worked incredibly hard to ensure that the Summer Carnival demonstrates the very best of Harpenden and offers something for everyone. From the ever-popular Savills Dog Show to bouncy inflatables, craft activities to delicious food and drinks stalls, there will be plenty to entertain all.

James Rose - Carnival Chair, Harpenden Round Table, said “We are proud to bring Harpenden Carnival back again this summer. Bring your family, bring your friends. Not only is Carnival a great day out, it celebrates local businesses and community groups, whilst raising substantial amounts for charity”.

This year, the Arena programme is bigger and better than ever and we are delighted to announce that the programme will include the incredible Black Eagles Acrobats who you may know from CBBC’s Crackerjack; these amazing talented performers promise to be a real show stopper! The Extreme Mountain Bike Show is also appearing – Europe’s number one mountain bike trials / BMX demonstration team. Plus Revellers Steelband, a Carnival favourite, will also be showcasing their vibrant talents.

The Stage also has a wonderful line up of entertainment including fabulous music from Number 7 – guaranteed to get you up on your feet. Sam Lewis will bring his acoustic guitar, guaranteed to help the Summer festival vibe, while high energy trio The Barn-ettes perform fabulous hits from the 40s to 80s.

Also new this year is a free ‘Nerf’ Arena and extra walkabout entertainment courtesy of Rob the Robot, a robot dancer!

Harpenden Town Mayor Cllr Fiona Gaskell said, “The Harpenden Carnival is an exciting summer tradition and the Town Council is delighted to continue our partnership with Harpenden Round Table. It is always wonderful to see such vibrancy and community spirit on Harpenden Common. This event is a real highlight for residents and we’re proud to support some incredible charities.”

Town Council Officers will be ready to greet you at the Information Tent on the day, near the Baa Lambs Car Park. Do come along to pick up a lost persons wristband for children and vulnerable visitors, and to find out about this and other events taking place this year, as well as our other work we do.

The Harpenden Carnival raises around £10,000 per year for charities which is a real testament to the incredible Harpenden Round Table. The event is free to enter but accepts donations. This year, the event is raising money for Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust, PARC, Isabel Hospice and the Mayor’s Charities.

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June Update from our Sponsors

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 07:47:09 GMT

It's all about local events this month...

I can't believe it's already June!

This month is all about supporting local organisations and events for us here at Lyndhurst and we have a number of local activities that we are supporting and sponsoring this month so we hope that the good weather continues and the sun shines.

In Harpenden, we are looking forward to the Harpenden Summer Carnival this month hosted by the Harpenden Town Council and Harpenden Round Table. It looks set to be another fabulous local event and we're delighted to be involved supporting this important local activity. If you see our team out and about please do pop over and say hello!

We are also sponsoring the Hitchin Beer and Cider Festival in Hitchin at Hitchin Rugby Club which begins on Thursday 15 ^th June and runs until the 17 ^th June. That looks set to be another popular community event. If you can’t make that, we are also supporting the Hitchin Cheese and Cider Festival at Hitchin Football Club on 30 ^th June.

Being part of our community and supporting these type of events and organisations is an important part of our business and we're delighted to be able to support these activities this year.

We hope all the events are a success.

Adam Cook
Operations Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Harpenden Mayor announces support for charities

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 10:50:29 GMT

Mayor announces her chosen charities

Herts Young Homeless and Harpenden Mencap announced as official Mayor Charities

The Mayor of Harpenden, Cllr Fiona Gaskell, has announced that she will be supporting two local charities in her Mayoral year: Herts Young Homeless and Harpenden Mencap. Two incredibly worthwhile organisations

supporting local people.

Cllr Fiona Gaskell, Mayor of Harpenden said, “Herts Young Homeless and Harpenden Mencap are fantastic charities that do such important work in our community to prevent homelessness in young people and support people with learning disabilities. It will be a great pleasure and privilege to raise as much money as I can to help them continue to do so.”

Since 1998, Herts Young Homeless has been preventing homelessness and providing education, advice and support to young people in the local community, by providing education in schools and family mediation, through to supporting 16-24 year olds in their first homes and caring for adults of all ages who have mental health issues and housing needs.

Nicola MacKinnon, Community Fundraising Officer for Herts Young Homeless said “We are thrilled to be one of the Mayor of Harpenden’s charities this year. As a local charity supporting vulnerable young people and their families, it will be a great chance to increase the awareness of what we do in Harpenden in the coming year. We are looking forward to supporting the Mayor with all her events this year and hopefully meeting lots of Harpenden residents.”

Harpenden Mencap helps those with a learning disability lead independent and fulfilling lives by providing

occupational opportunities, supporting residents in its purpose-built flats or from their own homes in the community and running the Britannia Club, a club which provides an environment where there are opportunities to meet friends, share experiences and participate in group activities or individual pursuits.

Angela Duce, Chief Executive Officer, Harpenden Mencap said “We are delighted that the Mayor has chosen

Harpenden Mencap as one of her nominated charities for the year ahead. We look forward to working together to raise our profile and make Harpenden one of the best communities for learning disabled people to live.’

Part of the Mayor’s duties include hosting a number of events to raise funds for their nominated charities. The first of these will be the traditional fundraising Quiz Night on Friday 1 st September. This is always a popular, lively night, with an entertaining Quiz Master, fish and chip supper and a well stocked bar. Individual and team tickets are available from the Town Council: email jane.juby@harpenden.co.uk or find further information on the Harpenden Town Council website: www.harpenden.gov.uk

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May Update from our Sponsors

Thu, 11 May 2023 12:03:01 GMT

Growing Our Team

Lyndhurst have been recruiting and supporting the internal growth and development of our Lyndhurst Family. We are pleased to announce Charles Sebuliba has joined the firm as a Financial Planner and Business Protection Specialist. Charles will be based in our Harpenden office but is visiting Hitchin frequently to assist clients there also.

We also look forward to Sophia Karunwi joining the Hitchin office later in June. Sophia will be helping with technical support to the advisers as well as having a management overlay to help the expanding support team in Hitchin.

Jerry Williamson has achieved the position of Financial Planner. Jerry has been working closely with a number of our experienced advisers in Harpenden as an Assistant Financial Planner. I am now delighted to say he is now certificated as a Financial Planner.

You may also have noticed the changes to our signage on the front of our offices in Harpenden and Hitchin. We have updated our logo and look forward to including our new logo on some of our other sponsoships throughout the summer. We have just approved the artwork to go on the glasses at the Hitchin Beer Festival which will be held at Hitchin Rugby Club on 15 ^th June – 17 ^th June 2023.

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Harpenden's Retailer's Coronation Trail

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 19:22:17 GMT

Celebrate the Coronation around the town

Harpenden’s Retailers Celebrate with a Royal Challenge

To help celebrate the Coronation of King Charles and the fabulous shop window displays around Harpenden and Southdown, 26 shops have joined together to make a Coronation Trail.

The Trail is an exciting competition suitable for everyone starting in Southdown and ending in Harpenden’s High Street. Participants can follow a map and answer the coronation-themed questions displayed in each shop window. The winning entry will receive a locally-sourced coronation themed hamper, perfect for this wonderful royal occasion.

Maps are available from the Town Hall or can be downloaded from Harpenden Town Council’s website

www.harpenden.gov.uk/coronation.

Entries must be in the Town Hall’s post box by 8pm on 12 th May and the winner will be selected at random from the sheets with the most correct answers.

The participating shops are:

Jelleys Meats, Rennie Grove Southdown, Emilio’s, Milehams, Cove Spa, Studio 117, Harpenden Cycles, Allders

Opticians, Oxfam Books and Music, Dogs Trust, Harpenden Building Society, Beat School Uniforms, Threads, Perrys Florist, Godfreys, The Home and Garden Edit, Skye Optometrists, CY Hair, Serena Hart, Oui, Rennie Grove

Harpenden, Healthy and Wise, The Blue Cross, Wine Rack, Good Sports and Stephanie Randall The Flower Studio.

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Promoting the Harpenden Guide

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 11:30:32 GMT

Promoting The Harpenden Guide

The sun is shining, it's a Bank Holiday and we're out promoting The Harpenden Guide Community App today.

If you live in and around Farm Avenue and the surrounding area give us a wave if you see us!

There's so many great things happening in our lovely town and The Harpenden Guide Community App was created as a unique community intiative to be able to share local information about events, business, what's on, news and so many other things linked to our town.

Don't forget that if you have any events, organisations or businesses to promote locally then we're here to help.

You can advertise your events free of charge by completing this online form...

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April Update from our Sponsors

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 11:19:30 GMT

Supporting Local Business Events

We are delighted to once again be sponsoring The Harpenden Guide Community App which is now in it's third year. Being at the heart of our community is an important part of our business and it's great to be able to support this unique community initiative designed to support local businesses and keep people informed and up to date on all things Harpenden.

We're looking forward to seeing The Harpenden Guide Community App continuing to grow and provide local people with information and updates about everything happening in our local town. We're delighted that the app has already received well over 4,000 downloads and is regularly used by local people to keep up to date.

Don't forget that if you have a local event happening you can advertise it for free on the Harpenden Guide so take advantage of this unique local resource to help you promote your local community events.

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Win tickets to the Herts Business Show

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 15:38:06 GMT

Win a ticket to the Herts Business Show

The Organisers of the Hertfordshire Business Growth Show, taking place at Rothamsted Conference Centre on 27th April, have provided the Harpenden Guide Community App with two free tickets to giveaway to local business owners.

The Hertfordshire Business Growth Show - www.hertsbusinessshow.co.uk - will be a unique mix of keynote speakers, Business Workshops, Networking and Ask the Expert sessions, all designed to help and support local business owners.

T he n o t-for- profit event is being organised by a number of local Entrepreneurs and Business Owners who were all keen to put something back into the local business community. The aim is to create a unique and exciting event to support local business owners and provide them with a unique mix of business ideas, insight and networking opportunities.

Local Business Owne r (and Founder of The Harpenden Guide Community App) Peter Barker, is one of the Founders of the event, and said…

”As an Entreprene ur you never stop learning and who you hang around with matters, alot, so we’re excited that this unique event will provide like-minded business owners with a unique opportunity to Learn, Connect and Grow. There’ll be some amazing Keynote speakers, Business Workshops and local business experts on hand throughout the day to help and support people with their businesses. Plus we’re a lso being joined by a Polar Explorer and world record holder too!”

Lyndhurst Financial Management Limited are backing the event as the headline sponsors and were keen to be involved in this innovative event to support small business owners. Adam Cook, Operations Director said…

“We recognise building relationships and bringing communities together in Hertfordshire as one of our core values, therefore, when we saw the opportunity to help bring this inaugural event to business owners across Hertfordshire as the headline sponsor we were delighted to be involved. We’re looking forward to welcoming people on the day.”

In addition to the event supporting local business owners it’s also nominated two local charities to benefit from the day and Youth Talk and Homestart Herts will be benefiting from 10% of all the ticket sales plus will be there on the day to promote their charities too.

The Harpenden Guide has 2 x tickets to give away to local business owners for free!

If you are a local business owner and would like to benefit from this event simply complete the details below and we'll draw two names from the hat on Saturday 15th April 2023.

Winners will be notified by email and the results will also be posted on this site too - good luck!

The Harpenden Trust raises £63,000

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 16:19:28 GMT

Thanks to Harpenden People...

On 17 March 2023, the Harpenden Trust expressed its appreciation to the local community for their exceptional generosity, announcing a total of £63,000 in donations for their annual appeal.

The contributions to the Harpenden Trust have made a significant impact by enabling the Care Fund to provide financial and practical support to local families and residents. The Trust carries out over 660 visits annually to assist with various aspects, including food expenses, school uniforms, and vital appliances.

In recent years, the Harpenden Trust has become increasingly aware of the issues of isolation and loneliness within the community. To address these problems, they have provided befriending services to over 90 local residents, organized three outings for 143 seniors annually, and arranged coffee mornings twice a week for people who want to socialize. They have also granted utility assistance to 80 low-income local residents each year, providing much-needed support.

Furthermore, the Trust has partnered with MIND and local GP surgeries to support over 100 residents across different age groups through the Harpenden Wellbeing Hub. They have initiated several programs to improve local residents' wellbeing, including the Frazzled Café at the Eric Morcambe Centre, the Arts on Prescription initiative, the Memory Lane Dementia Café, and local youth wellbeing projects that cover ages 4-25.

Richard Nichols, the Harpenden Trust Chairman, expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the annual appeal. Despite financial challenges that many people are facing, the community has continued to provide their generous support, making a significant impact on their neighbors. The money raised will make a tremendous difference to people in need across Harpenden and will enable the Trust to continue its various initiatives that support the community.

Lynn Kennedy, the Appeal Director at the Harpenden Trust, acknowledged that the annual appeal could not happen without the kindness and generosity of the community who donate, the volunteers who collect donations, and the local shops and businesses that support them. She expressed her gratitude to all these stakeholders.

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World Book Day Celebrated in Harpenden

Sat, 11 Mar 2023 08:29:23 GMT

World Book Day in Harpenden

World Book Day is an annual event that is celebrated across the globe. This day is dedicated to promoting the love for reading and encouraging people to read more.

In Harpenden, World Book Day is a special occasion that is celebrated with enthusiasm in schools with various events and activities to celebrate the day. These events include book readings, storytelling sessions, book fairs, and literary quizzes. Children and adults alike are encouraged to dress up as their favorite book character and you'll see many people dressed up on their way to school today!

Harpenden library plays a significant role in promoting reading on World Book Day. The library encourages people to come in and explore the collection of books available and to get reading. They also organise reading challenges and book clubs to engage readers of all ages.

Find our more about our local library in Harpenden and about World Book day too.

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March Update from our Sponsors

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 08:03:24 GMT

Supporting Local Business Events

We are excited to be sponsoring a number of local events in the next few months across Harpenden and and Hitchin.

On the 27th of April, we will be at the Hertfordshire Business Growth Show at Rothamsted Conference Centre helping support local business leaders and businesses to get ahead and maximise their potential. If you are interested in attending we can offer a discounted rate on tickets up until 14th March so please get in touch to book your place. If you are a local business owner you can grab a ticket here - www.hertsbusinessshow.co.uk .

On the 23rd of March, we will have a stand at Sir John Lawes School in Harpenden as part of their careers day. We hope to help young people understand the opportunities available within the financial sector and encourage the next generation to consider a career in finance. We also offer a number of work experience slots throughout the year.

If you know anyone who might be interested in gaining a better understanding of the career opportunities available and what Lyndhurst can offer, please get in touch.

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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New Local Restaurant feature launched

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 16:12:48 GMT

'Book a Table' feature coming soon...

The Harpenden Guide Community App is all about supporting our local community.

So we're delighted to announce a new feature in the App to make it easy for local people to quickly find and support our local restaurant businesses.

The 'Local Restaurants' feature will enable you to quickly and easily find your favourite eatery and book a table at a wide range of local restuarants, cafes and food establishments in and around Harpenden.

The feature has been developed based on feedback from users who like the idea of quickly and easily being able to find information and book a table.

The new 'Book a Restaurant' feature will enable you to search through the local listings and then quickly dive into their website to book a table directly. Quick, easy and hassle free!

No more fumbling around to find telephone numbers or trying to 'Google' their name to find them and make a booking, we're aiming to provide you with a 'one-stop shop' to make finding and booking a table for a night out quick and hassle free.

Watch this space in the knowledge that eating out locally is just about to get so much quicker and easier!

If you own a local eating establishment and would like to claim your listing you can find all the details here...

The Harpenden Guide App is a free local community resource and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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If you've not yet got The Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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February Update from our Sponsors

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 22:46:33 GMT

Supporting Local Business Events

W e're delighted to be the Headline Sponsor for The Hertfordshire Business Growth Show

We recognise building relationships and bringing communities together in Hertfordshire as one of our core values, therefore, when we saw the opportunity to help bring this inaugural event taking place in Harpenden to business owners across Hertfordshire as the headline sponsor we were delighted to be involved.

At Lyndhurst, we offer a full range of financial products and services to help support you through your financial journey.

We support those who want an uncomplicated sense check of their finances, through to managing large investment portfolios, drawing on investments in retirement and the passing of wealth to family members supported by our firm of legal experts.

We recognise the challenges faced by businesses and can assist with advice for company pension schemes, business protection including key person cover and shareholder protection as well as investment management for companies to name just a few.

We'll be at the event ready to welcome you with the team and we look forward to sharing a great day with you and answering any questions you may have.

If you are a local business owner you can grab a ticket here - www.hertsbusinessshow.co.uk .

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Hertfordshire Business Show comes to Harpenden

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 22:51:59 GMT

A must attend event for local business owners

New Business Event launched to support Small Business Owners

An exciting and brand new business event to support local small business owners has been launched this week.

The Hertfordshire Business Growth Show - www.hertsbusinessshow.co.uk - will be a unique mix of keynote speakers, MasterClasses, speed networking and ask the expert sessions, all designed to help and support local business owners.

The event will be taking place on 27th April 2023 at Rothamsted Conference Centre, in Harpenden and tickets are now on sale with a special Launch Offer available until 14th March.

The show is being organised by a number of local Entrepreneurs and Business Owners who were all keen to put something back into the local business community. The aim is to create a unique and exciting event to support local business owners and provide them with a unique mix of business ideas, insight and networking.

Local Business Owner Peter Barker, one of the Event Founders, said…”As an Entrepreneur you never stop learning and who you hang around with matters, alot, so we’re excited that this unique event will provide like-minded business owners with a unique opportunity to Learn, Connect and Grow.

“There’ll be some amazing Keynote speakers, MasterClasses, a fast-paced Speed Networking activity and local business experts on hand throughout the day to help and support people with their businesses. Plus we’re also being joined by a Polar Explorer and world record holder too!”

Lyndhurst Financial Management Limited are backing the event as the headline sponsors and were keen to be involved in this innovative event to support small business owners.

Adam Cook, Operations Director said… “We recognise building relationships and bringing communities together in Hertfordshire as one of our core values, therefore, when we saw the opportunity to help bring this inaugural event to business owners across Hertfordshire as the headline sponsor we were delighted to be involved. We’re looking forward to welcoming people on the day.”

Tickets for the event are now on sale and likely to sell out so head to www.hertsbusinessshow.co .uk to reserve your place.

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January Update from our Sponsors

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 08:00:02 GMT

Happy Xmas from Lyndhurst

Happy New Year from all at Lyndhurst Financial Management Ltd.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to reassess how to reshape your personal financial journey. Whatever your circumstances and needs, we’re here to listen to your future plans and support you in achieving them.

When considering your options to save and invest, a key date that comes around quickly is the tax year end on 5 ^th April 2023. It is a good idea to understand your tax allowances and if you haven’t considered using part or all of them then it may be something to discuss with your financial adviser.

There are many ways that you can save or invest. Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) are an incredibly effective means of shielding your money from both Capital Gains Tax and Income Tax. To utilise your ISA allowance, you should make use of it before the tax year end deadline. There can also be benefits of using your allowances just after the tax year end for the following year deadline to maximise the opportunity for growth in a tax efficient environment.

Pension savings allowances also run between tax years and you might consider what contributions you have made during the period, especially as a business owner, as there could be benefits in making further contributions before the deadline.

There are limits to the amount you can contribute into tax efficient savings vehicles such as ISA’s and Pensions, so it is always a good idea to seek advice in these areas from a professional.

Lyndhurst wishes you a successful 2023 and if you need any help with your financial planning we have two offices on Harpenden high street and an office in Hitchin. Please pop in and see us.

Lyndhurst Financial Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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The Harpenden Guide Highlights of 2022

Sat, 24 Dec 2022 12:22:24 GMT

Merry Xmas from The Harpenden Guide

Wow - another year is drawing to a close and it's a chance for us to take stock and reflect on everything we have achieved this year here at The Harpenden Guide.

Our goal was always for The Harpenden Guide Community App to be a free resource for local people to keep them informed and also to help support local events and local businesses. This year has been no exception and we've continued to grow our following locally to help keep people informed of all things local.

Here's just a few highlights from 2022...

Our plans are for bigger and better things in 2023 so watch this space!

#localcommunity #charitysupport #smallbusinesssupport #harpenden

DON'T FORGET

If you've not yet got The Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

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Santa Claus is visiting Harpenden

Sat, 03 Dec 2022 14:51:49 GMT

Sant's Rounds in Harpenden

Santa Claus is Coming to Harpenden Town - and that's official!

It's that time of year when the Local Round Table pull out all the Christmas stoppers to help Santa make the long journey from the North Pole all the way to Harpenden!

And he's back this year supporting Herts Young Homeless, Cleft Lip and Palate Association and Against Malaria Foundation.

This annual Harpenden event is a highlight for so many children (amd parents too!) each year as Santa makes his way around the town during the December evenings to greet local families.

You can follow his progress on the live site here - https://harpendensanta.uk - so check it out to find out where he'll be and when.

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December Update from our Sponsors

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 21:27:49 GMT

Lyndhurst celebrates 30 years

During November we celebrated the 30 ^th anniversary of the founding of Lyndhurst with a dinner for staff and partners and it got me thinking about the changes we have made to the business over the last 30 years and also how the UK economy has fared during that time.

1992 was an inauspicious time to be starting a financial services business, property prices had slumped by more 20% in the past two years after the boom in the late 80’s. Inflation had been around 10% for the previous decade and the bank rate was over 10%, plus Sterling had just left the ERM (Exchange Rate Mechanism) and the Bank of England was yet to gain full independence!

Against this backdrop, three brave souls set out to conquer the then murky world of financial services and during their journey, they encountered six different regulators each of whom had a different view of how to protect the consumer.

Our current regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority, is introducing Consumer Duty which “sets higher and clearer standards of consumer protection across financial services and requires firms to put their customers’ needs first” (FCA website). We would argue that for the last thirty years we have always done that, however, anything that brings the overall standard of our industry to a higher level is to be lauded.

In 1999, during the dotcom bubble, the team established its head office in Lyndhurst House and the team grew from three to eight by March 10 ^th 2000 when the bubble burst and NASDAQ the US tech index lost 78% of its value by October 2002! Luckily, Lyndhurst was built on bricks and mortar rather than clicks and continued to prosper opening an office in Barnet in the early years of the decade.

Then the financial crash occurred in 2008 and a period of consolidation followed. During this time our regulator was the Financial Services Authority which at the end of 2012 introduced the “Retail Distribution Review” among other things banning commissions on retail investment products. This we wholeheartedly supported as a way of modernising our industry.

Moving to the current day we have survived the global pandemic and helped our clients do the same, growing to thirty-eight in the team across offices in Harpenden and Hitchin that along with our two thousand or so clients make up the Lyndhurst family.

It was indeed a happy birthday.

Geoff Newman

Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Harpenden Christmas Carnival

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 21:20:36 GMT

Harpenden Council plans a spectacular Christmas Carnival

Harpenden’s Christmas Carnival will take place this year on Sunday 27th November from 12pm-6pm, with festive entertainment and activities throughout the Town Centre. This event promises to be a fantastic celebration for residents and visitors of all ages and we are delighted to announce that local UK Solicitors Practice, SA Law, will continue to be the Principal Sponsor of this exciting celebration.

Gill Garrett, Harpenden resident and Partner, Director of Finance and Business Support of the Carnival’s PrincipalSponsor SA Law, said "The Harpenden Christmas Carnival is an integral part of our seasonal celebrations; with many SA Law staff members being residents who enjoy the carnival year after year. It’s a pleasure to be able to contribute to the Town's Christmas experience in such a positive way. Importantly, many elements of the Carnival are free to attend and enjoy, making it an accessible and inclusive event. We are delighted to be supporting our community by helping to spread some festive joy.”

Following the popularity of previous Christmas events, the Carnival will include the features that Harpenden’s

residents and visitors have come to expect such as a Santa's Grotto, food stalls, outdoor bars, the Christmas market, entertainment, a traditional procession and, of course, the spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On at 5.00pm.

The procession is always a highlight of this event and this year will be no exception. The Town Council is delighted that the Pipes and Drums will again lead, closely followed by Santa and his elves. Joining them are stilt walkers and entertainers, Police Cadets, Brownies and Scout groups, The Little Gym and Showtime Circus.

The procession begins at 3pm; from Lydekker Park it will travel along the High Street up to Vaughan Road.

Live entertainment will be spread over on two stages: the Community Stage entertainment will include the Hurst Children’s Theatre Group, Harpenden and Wheathampstead Gang Show, SW Dance, Showtime Circus, Musicale, the Harpenden Panto and St Albans Rock Choir. On the Music Stage we're delighted to announce the return of singer Simon Cragg and cover band Right as Rain, two Harpenden favourites to get the crowds in the mood for a festive celebration.

Additionally, the funfair will be situated along the High Street and Church Green, and the Farmers Christmas

Market, outdoor bars and food stalls will also be along the High Street.

Aside from the live entertainment, children can expect Christmas themed craft workshops and, of course, Santa will be greeting children at his Santa’s Grotto from 12.30-5.30pm.

The Christmas Lights will be switched on at 5pm by The Town Mayor, Cllr Lisa Scriven together with the winner of the Mayor’s Christmas Card Competition, a design competition open to children in Harpenden. This is always a show stopping moment for the Town and a time to appreciate the hospitality and breadth of the best of Harpenden.

In addition to the Carnival, St Albans and Harpenden Volunteer Police Cadets and Harpenden Fire Station will be hosting a Christmas Emergency Services Open Day at the Fire Station in Leyton Road.

Harpenden Town Mayor Cllr Lisa Scriven said, “The Christmas Carnival is a really exciting event in Harpenden with a wonderful festive atmosphere. It is always a pleasure to see residents and visitors of all ages enjoying the entertainment, food and drinks, as well as doing a spot of Christmas shopping. We would like to thank SA Law for supporting the 2022 Carnival as our Principal Sponsor and helping to make this year’s event such a success!”

Free parking for the event will be available at the Station car park starting at 12 noon; because of expected high attendance the Town Council encourages people to walk to the event where possible. For families attending with young children, there will be free lost child wristbands available at the Town Council Information Tent.

Further details can be found at www.harpenden.gov.uk.

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Join the Festive Fun in Harpenden

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 16:33:46 GMT

Where to find the Festive Fun in Harpenden..

Wow - we're already in November - how did that happen!!

As we edge nearer to the Festive Season, we thought it would be helpful to collate details of all the festive fun that's taking place in Harpenden this year. So we've created a fabulous festive feature for the Harpenden Guide App that provides details of all the Christmas festivities in Harpenden.

Whether you're looking for local places to visit Santa, want to know what Xmas Fairs are taking place or just want to see what events are happening locally in Harpenden just dive into the Harpenden Guide App and click the 'Festive Fun in Harpenden' feature for all the details.

So if you're looking for details on all the festive events in Harpenden then make sure you've downloaded the Harpenden Guide Mobile App (it's a free community resource!) and make sure you are up to speed with all the festive fun in Harpenden this year.

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November Update from our Sponsors

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 16:04:30 GMT

Lyndhurst celebrates 30 years

We are delighted to be celebrating thirty years in business for Lyndhurst Financial Management.

During this time our team has grown from three to over forty staff members in three different offices in Harpenden and Hitchin servicing over 2,000 clients nationwide.

We strive to treat everyone as one of our own and our employees and clients often say they feel part of the Lyndhurst family. Based on our core services of financial planning including mortgages and wealth management over the last 30 years, we have achieved our growth through innovation, strategic acquisition and bringing in the best expertise through rigorous recruitment and technological developments.

In other news, we have collected feedback from our 3 ^rd Harpenden Personal Finance Conference where we had over 100 attendees. It is fair to say it was an overwhelming success and provided guests with greater insight to overcome the challenges of intergenerational wealth transfer and the investment markets.

The videos of the presentations can all be viewed here too for those that missed them.

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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Firework Displays in Harpenden

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 15:44:01 GMT

Remember, remember the 5th of November..

Remember, remember the 5th of November....

With fireworks and bonfire night almost upon us, we thought it would be useful to list details of the public firework displays that are taking place in and around Harpenden. This year we've received details from six local organisations about a number of public displays in Harpenden, Redbourn, Wheathamstead and St Albans.

We've listed full details of these displays taking place on the 4th, 5th and 6th November in The Harpenden Guide Community App 'What's on' feature, with full details and links so check out the App (download it to your mobile phone from the link below if you've not aready got it!) for all the latest information of the fireworks displays on in and around Harpenden this year.

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Clarendon Fine Art comes to Harpenden

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 21:50:59 GMT

Largest Gallery Group comes to Harpenden

Clarendon Fine Art, the world’s largest gallery group has opened a brand-new state-of-the-art

gallery in Harpenden on Friday 30th September.

The gallery, at 37 High Street, Harpenden, offers an exclusive experience in art acquisition and specialises in unique original works and limited-edition statement pieces from some of the world’s most dynamic and talented street, pop, and contemporary artists.

The gallery specialises in original works, limited editions and sculpture from the finest emerging and established contemporary artists, alongside a superb collection of rare signed editions from 20th century masters including Picasso, Hockney and Warhol.

Its services are designed to make art acquisition an uplifting and refreshing experience, and include; personal appointments in the gallery or your home, artist commissioning, interest free credit, bespoke insurance, gift list services and many more.

Find out more at https://www.clarendonfineart.com/galleries/harpenden/

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October Update from our Sponsors

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 12:15:34 GMT

Thinking about your Personal Finances

Welcome to our October update.

With the squeeze on all our finances, and the turmoil in the markets off the back of the Government's latest announcements, now is the time to think about your longer term financial planning.

As mentioned last month, Lyndhurst Financial Management is delighted to be hosting its third annual conference at Rothamsted Conference Centre on Friday 14 ^th October from 08:45 to 1pm . This is a great way to help you think about and address your longer term financial future.

This year’s theme is “From early years to later life - supporting our community through every stage of life's financial journey” and as ever we have organised a great selection of speakers from illustrious firms; JP Morgan, Mishcon De Reya, abrdn and Foresight along with our MP, Bim Afolami.

Over the last couple of years many of us have had time to reflect on what we really want from life, and how priorities have changed. The importance of living every moment, cherishing our relationships with our family and friends, and appreciating what we have in the world around us has perhaps never seemed so paramount.

Many people are increasingly looking to provide security not only for their own mid and later life but also for the younger generations who face such an uncertain future. The theme of this year's Conference allows us to reflect on the variety of financial solutions available to clients of all ages and from all backgrounds. Junior ISAs and pensions for grandchildren, financial support for university fees and first-time mortgages, inheritance tax mitigation including Business Relief, and financial security to cover later life needs are all strategies that we frequently discuss during our meetings with clients.

If you would like to reserve a place at the conference email sarahquiggin@lyndhurstfm.co.uk

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

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We're live in The Forum Magazine

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 13:35:55 GMT

Getting noticed in Harpenden...

We were delighted to open up the pages of Harpenden Town Council's Quarterly Newsletter that goes to all households in town and see The Harpenden Guide being promoted by the Town Council!

It's so good to see our community initiative continuing to grow and be adopted by more and more local people. As a local family, our goal was always to provide a great free resource for our local community and to help support local businesses too so it's great to see the Town Council continuing to get behind this as well.

We have so much happening in our wonderful town and being able to provide a 'pocket guide to Harpenden' via this free mobile app is something that we will be continuing to champion and grow over the coming months.

Please remember that all lcoal community organisations can advertise on the App free-of-charge and promote their local events too. Local businesses can have a unique business listing for a small free and the people of Harpenden can download the App free-of-charge from the iOS and Android App stores to keep up to date.

Thanks to you all for your continued support - please do continue to help us spread the word.

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Harpenden Food and Drink Festival

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 15:53:42 GMT

Harpenden's Premier Food Festival

A celebration of the best of Food and Drink at Harpenden’s premier festival

Harpenden Town Council is delighted to announce the return of the Harpenden Food and Drink Festival on Saturday 17th September, 12-6pm. This exciting event proved to be hugely popular last year, welcoming around 15,000 people, and again promises to be a highlight for residents and visitors to the Town.

Not only will the occasion feature more than 70 food stalls, from fresh market-stall produce to a diverse array of street food to suit everyone’s taste, the weekend will also include outdoor community seating areas, a DJ playing summer time hits, a live music stage and a children’s zone featuring Captain Fantastic entertainment, face painting, outdoor games, soft play, and Storytime by Harpenden Library. The Harpenden Arms will run two bars, Oktoberfest will offer an authentic German experience at their bar and Eden events will be serving frozen cocktails.

A real hit in 2021 was the live music and this year should be just as much a highlight with bands performing

throughout the day. There will be performances from duo cover band Leader, Right as Rain pop rock, and indie rock from The Maida Vales.

Harpenden Town Mayor, Cllr Lisa Scriven said: “The Harpenden Food and Drink Festival presents an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy all that Harpenden has to offer – showcasing local businesses, and our beautiful green spaces and High Street, of which we are so proud. We look forward to welcoming everyone young and old.”

Check out the 'What's On' feature in the App for More details...

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September Update from our Sponsors

Sat, 27 Aug 2022 10:13:20 GMT

Join us for our Personal Finance Event

Welcome to our September update - I hope you have all enjoyed a good summer. As our thoughts turn to the autumn months I wanted to focus this month's update on our forthcoming personal finance conference.

Lyndhurst Financial Management is delighted to be hosting its third annual conference at Rothamsted Conference Centre on Friday 14 ^th October from 08:45 to 1pm .

If you would like to reserve a place at the conference email sarahquiggin@lyndhurstfm.co.uk

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

Music in Lydekker Park Returns for 4th Year

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 18:40:09 GMT

Music in Lydekker Parks returns for a fourth year

Music in Lydekker will be returning to Lydekker Park on Saturday 27th August 2022, 12pm-4pm.

This FREE event will include incredible live music, guaranteed to get the audience on their feet, performed in the beautiful surroundings of one of Harpenden’s most treasured green spaces.

Performing this year are Tennessee Boogie Boys and Threefold, bands that are guaranteed to get the crowds up off their deck chairs! Tennessee Boogie Boys promise upbeat authentic 1950’s rock ‘n’ roll, rockabilly, country with a little bit of blues added in; with hits from Elvis, Bill Haley, BR549, Fats Domino and many more.

Threefold is an exciting acoustic covers trio who explore interesting takes on songs, classic to contemporary, with smooth three part harmony as a specialty.

Food will be provided by Hertfordshire family business Dough with the Flow, simply the best woodfired pizzas

around, while drinks come courtesy of Little Italy Bar Co.

This popular summer highlight, organised by Harpenden Town Council, is a fantastic opportunity for Harpenden residents to unwind and enjoy the afternoon sun. Music in Lydekker is a free event, booking is not required, but attendees are encouraged to arrive on foot where possible as parking at Lydekker Car Park is limited.

Further information updates will be available on the Harpenden Town Council website and their social

channels: www.harpenden.gov.uk

Keeping in touch with Harpenden Town Council

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 07:42:41 GMT

Keeping you up-to-date with your Town Council

As part of the continuous development of The Harpenden Guide Community App, we've now added a brand new feature to help you all keep up to date with the work of Harpenden Town Council.

When you now launch the App you will find a link on the home page called 'Harpenden Town Council' and that will take you through to a number of areas and link directly to the Town Council's website.

At present this includes links to...

The Council - general information about the work of Harpenden Town Council.

Community and Initiatives - information and updates on current initiatives the Council is undertaking.

Green Spaces - information on all the local green space areas and developments across Harpenden.

Council News - latest news and updates from Harpenden Town Council.

Events & Markets - details on all the local events taking place and information for the monthly Harpenden Farmer's Market.

This new feature will evolve over time but the aim is to provide local people with quick and easy access to the work of the Town Council through a number of dedicated links.

We hope that you find it of help in keeping up to date on all things Harpenden.

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

Ready, Teddy, Go... Time to head to Lydekker Park

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 13:39:08 GMT

It's a Teddy Adventure in Lydekker Park

It's that time of the year when Teddies pack up their picnics and head to Lydekker Park in Harpenden for the Teddy Bears' Picnic. So make sure you head down there to enjoy a fun event on 3rd August.

The Teddy Bears' Picnic is organised to coincide with National Playday, a national celebration of children’s right to play and a campaign to highlight the importance of play in children’s lives.

Teddy Bears' Picnic

Lydekker Park – August 3 ^rd - 11am – 2pm

Free entertainment and engaging activities for children including:

The Little Gym

Sandy Art

Face painting (please note that tickets are limited for this one)

Bouncy castle and soft play

Herts Family Centre craft activities

Bear Discovery Trail

Teddy Bears' Hospital.

There'll be two Story Time sessions at 11:30am and 12:20pm, roll up-roll up for the fabulous Showtime Circus Show which starts at 12 noon and expect a lot of fun with Funny Bones at 12:45pm!

Harpenden Town Mayor Cllr Lisa Scriven said “Teddy Bear’s Picnic is a Harpenden favourite enjoyed by young children and their bears alike. It is always a delight to see so many children engaged in fun activities in one of Harpenden’s most treasured green spaces. We’re very proud to be able to host this type of celebration and, as a Harpenden parent myself, I know how important fun-filled and free events are during the school Summer holidays.”

This event really is a highlight of the year in Lydekker Park. Bring along a picnic and don’t forget to invite your favourite bear!

This is the first of two FREE events in Lydekker Park this Summer: Music in Lydekker takes place on Saturday 27thAugust and is an exciting opportunity to enjoy some fabulous music by Tennessee Boogie Boys and Threefold with a picnic or delicious food and drink from the food vendors.

For more information about Teddy Bears’ Picnic and other Harpenden Town Council events visit

www.harpenden.gov.uk/events-calendar .

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August Update from our Sponsors

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 11:41:57 GMT

Growing the Lyndhurst Family

In these challenging times we are finding more people are reaching out for assistance with their financial

matters and have expanded our team to ensure we have the time and resource to help.

Offering a personal service and building relationships is key to what we do and one of our core values is Loyalty. We have a huge amount of loyalty from our clients which we very much appreciate and equally from our Lyndhurst Team (often referred to as the Lyndhurst Family). It is therefore always exciting to welcome new people to the Lyndhurst Family and hopefully they will enjoy their careers with Lyndhurst as much as I have, for many years to come and play a big part in helping our clients make better financial decisions.

We have recruited 2 Junior Paraplanners in the last 3 months, Karl Osborne in Harpenden’s head office

and Adeola Akinjomo in Hitchin. Both are keen to complete their qualifications and support our advisers

with technical report writing as their careers develop.

Jack Manders joined us at the end of July as a Junior Investment Analyst and supporting our investment committee research.

We have also recruited Forhad Hussein as an administrator to help in our 64A High Street office in Harpenden which now houses 6 team members.

In total we will have 39 team members collaborating and supporting our clients across our 3 offices in

Hertfordshire by the time you read this article in August!

See our full team on https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/team/

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

Classics on the Common in Harpenden

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 09:46:08 GMT

The Classic Event of the Year

If you are looking for a real spectacle event to enjoy then make sure you get yourself along to this year's 'Classics on the Common' in Harpenden.

It's the biggest event of the year and a superb event for the whole family as Harpenden Common comes alive for a day with more than 1000 classics cars, motor cycles and scooters.

There you’ll find a Chevy Bel Air rubbing shoulders with a 1927 Trojan, and a rare 1978 Matra Bagheera with a 1959 Berlinetta. Plus 10,000 admiring spectators.

Little wonder Classics on the Common, in Harpenden, is one of Britain’s biggest mid-week classic car shows, ranks among the top events of the classics calendar.

Get all the latest details and information here - https://www.classicsonthecommon.com/

Download the iOS App...

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Check out our Sponsored Flowerbed

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 19:07:34 GMT

Our sponsored flowerbed...

It was so lovely to be out and about in the sunshine in Harpenden today enjoying the monthly Farmer's Market. It's so good to see so many people supporting this regular event and the stalls were buzzing with people keen to see what was on display.

The Harpenden Farmer's Market is a really important event in our town. It's organised each month by Harpenden Town Council and the Market hosts an array of artisan and local traders selling home-made or locally sourced goods and produce.

Whilst we were ambling about today we also thought we'd pop by our sponsored flowerbed (located outside W H Smiths in the High Street) and we weren't disappointed!

The sponsored flowerbed is looking beautiful (well down Harpenden Town Council!) and it's great for us to be able to support the town in this small way.

We hope that you enjoy all the lovely flowers that are planted to make Harpenden bloom for us all!

Download the iOS App ...

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July Update from our Sponsors

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 18:04:36 GMT

An update from our Sponsors

It's been another busy month here for the team at Lyndhurst Financial Management and it's been good to be able to get out and about as well to support a number of community activities. In particular we were delighted to be represented at the local charity golf day to help raise funds for the men's mental health charity - Movember.

Our team of golfers on the day representing Lyndhurst were Adam Cook, Jeremy Eyre, Lee Garner and Ed Corrie.

My golf was hit and miss (Adam!), Ed was the best player in our group and whilst we didn’t trouble the winners on the day, we all enjoyed the event and it was for a good cause too.

The day was really well organised by Tony Fields from The Katalyst Coach and the teams maintained a good pace for the round too. The ham, egg and chips our team enjoyed at the end of the day also hit the spot perfectly too!

The longest drive was a monster I think 308 yards on the tracker. Our best was a good 20 yards behind that.

Jeremy, our Finance Director, won the Lyndhurst donated prize in the raffle would you believe so, like good sports, we put it back in for another guest to win!

Tony said he was going to try and make it an annual event and we sincerely hope he does that as Lyndhurst are happy to support it with a team entry again next year.

We hope the money raised helps this important charity and look forward to the next one.

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

New App Feature - Local Crime Update

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 17:06:30 GMT

Check out the local crime statistics

Following quite a few requests about what features people would find helpful in The Harpenden Guide Community App, we've recently added a brand new feature that provides information and statistics from Hertfordshire Constabulary on the local crime figures for Harpenden and district.

If you head over into the app and check out the 'Local Crime Update' you'll find a new feature that links directly to the website for Herts Police and the statistics for Harpenden.

We hope that you find it a useful addition to this unique community resource.

As always, if you have any other insights and ideas for features that you would find helpful, please do contact us as we'd love to hear from you.

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

Harpenden Guide live on Linked In

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 19:49:18 GMT

Harpenden Guide Live on Linked In

It's always good to be able to shout about our local community and The Harpenden Guide. That's why I was delighted to accept the offer to chat about this on a LinkedIn Live session at the end of this month.

Since it's inception at the height of the pandemic, The Harpenden Guide has drawn lots of interest not just locally but further afield too. Indeed, I've received calls from people as far afield as Chelmsford, Leeds and even Cape Town from people looking to establish similar local community apps for their own areas too.

And they look to us, here in Harpenden, as leading the way with this unique community initiative.

The Harpenden Guide was always intended to be a community resource for local people run by local people. The idea of providing the local community with a 'one-stop shop' of information was always at the heart of the idea in addition to providing small local businesses with the opportunity to promote themselves too.

And it continues to be nothing short of a huge success that others are emulating too.

If you're on LinkedIn and would like to join us for the live on 29th June just use this link to join or reach out to me on LinkedIn too and I can let you have further details - it should be an interesting chat!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterbarker2/

Hope to see you there!

Download the iOS App...

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June Update from our Sponsors

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 14:34:33 GMT

An update from our Sponsors

It's been another busy month here for the team at Lyndhurst Financial Management and it's been good to see so many local people out and about in Harpenden enjoying the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebrations. There's so many great events that take place here in Harpenden and it's great to see these being promoted on The Harpenden Guide Community App too.

As a local business, being at the heart of our local community is really important to us which is why we are always keen to get involved in local community initiatives. This month we're delighted to be supporting The Katalyst Coach's Charity Golf Day on 23rd June at Redbourn Golf Club.

The event will be raising money to support the men's mental health charity Movember UK and we're delighted to be fielding a team in this local charity event.

I think there are still a few places left so if you'd like to get involved in this important local event (and take on the team from Lyndhurst too!) then please do take a look at the details in the app or contact Tony Fields on 07977 918862,

Hopefully, we'll see you on the course!

Speak soon!

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

Harpenden Platinum Jubilee Celebrations

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 09:09:00 GMT

The Party of the Year...

Wow - what a great few days that was celebrating The Queen's Platinum Jubilee in Harpenden. If you managed to get out and about over the long bank holiday to witness the Harpenden Jubilee Celebrations we're sure you'd have had a great time.

From the live music and entertainment, food and drink stalls, games, face painting interactive games and so much more, Harpenden's Platinum Jubilee Celebrations really provided a fabulous community spirited activity for local people.

In keeping with the long tradition of celebrating the very best of Royal occasions, it was also fabulous to see Harpenden taking part in the national beacon lighting on 2 June 2022. Hosted by the Mayor of Harpenden, it was a memorable and exciting occasion on Harpenden Common.

Congratulations to everyone who organised parties, events, celebrations and activities to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Harpenden Sustainability Market

Sun, 15 May 2022 20:54:48 GMT

Raising awareness of sustainability

It was great to be out and about today exploring the delights of the Harpenden Sustainability Market

The Market was part of the District's 2022 Sustainability Festival - https://sustfest.org/

The Sustainability Festival is run by the people of the St Albans City and District – a collaboration of individuals and groups holding dozens of events all over the district, encouraging each other to live with a lighter impact on the planet.

2022 is going to be another great year for sustainability in St Albans District and we're looking forward to seeing the wide range of events throughout May.

At the Market in Harpenden today it was great to see the following people showcasing their wares...

Eco Essentials stalls

Jefferson Crafts, My Refill Life, Trade & Retail, Stem The Tide

Greener Gifts stalls

Jackie Vine Jewellery, Bee & Wild, The Garden Box Company, Cosy Rosie Candles, Sweetsteruk, Sahara Bee, Vegan Upcycled Crafts, We Gorgeous

Sustainable Self-Care stalls

Balmy UK, KtP Organically, Real Inspiration, Zen Studio Therapies, Deroiste Natural Beauty, So Natural, toothbrush Club,

Hot and cold takeaway vegan food & vegan food products stalls

Dosa Clique, The Rustic Bakehouse, Chilli Gold, Millins, Rudi’s Chilli Jams, The Vegan Treats Company, Nurhu, Lukka Boutique Cakes, Eat Wholefoods, unpcd

Sustainable Textile Goods stalls

Tommie & Lottie, The Preloved Edit, Tikauo, The Hat Gallery, Dawn’s Boutique

Electric bikes, recycled bikes and bike assessories stalls

Flit, Botox Bikes Community Bike Shop

Environmental Charity and Community Group stalls

Herts Wildlife Trust, Playing Out, Soroptimists (with second hand books), RSPB, Sustainable St Albans, Plantlife, Rojiroki, Community Action Dacorum, Save North St Albans Green Belt, St Albans Greenpeace, Heart Community Group, St Albans and District Footpath Society

And with great music provided by 'Change The World Through Music' it was a fabulous day.

Download the iOS App...

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For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

The Katalyst Coach Charity Golf Day

Fri, 13 May 2022 21:03:09 GMT

Raising funds for Men's Health Charity Movember

If you love playing golf, and love raising money for charity, you are going to really enjoy this event.

A very sad reality is that men are three times more likely than women to die from suicide. Men aged 40-49 have the highest suicide rates.

Men's mental health charities play such an important role, and this golf event will be a chance for men to enjoy a relaxing day together, and to raise money for an important cause.

The event (at Redbourn golf club) will include a bacon roll on arrival, 18 holes of golf and then dinner and prizes.

The Katalyst Coach, is hosting a charity golf day to help raise money for the leading men's mental health charity Movember UK !

12.00pm Arrival; Tea / Coffee and Bacon rolls
12.30pm Welcome; Competition format, prizes, and purpose of the day
13.00pm – First group tee off
17.30pm – Return of first group
18.30pm – Meal, drinks, and prizes

Contact tony@thekatalystcoach.com or call on 07977918862 for more details.

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

May Update from our Sponsors

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 21:11:30 GMT

An update from our Sponsors

After a pleasing and busy couple of months leading up to the tax year-end, we now have an opportunity to look forward to some of the other things we are supporting in our community during May.

We will have our first two work experience students arriving this month for a week each from Roundwood School and Sir John Lawes. We look forward to giving them an insight into financial services and how we help our clients make better financial decisions.

We will be setting up our banners and supporting Roundwood Primary School at their Roundwood Primary Ball – ‘A Night at the Oscars’ at Aldwickbury Golf club on 13 ^th May. I believe this is the first big event since 2019 for the Roundwood PTA events team due to the pandemic, so I’m sure everyone is looking forward to it and we are pleased to be part of the sponsorship.

Hopefully, we can all experience some drier warmer weather to help with all the local events taking place this month which can be found in the Harpenden Guide.

Speak soon!

Adam Cook
Operation Director

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

Happy Easter from The Harpenden Guide

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 10:08:59 GMT

Wishing you a 'Blooming' marvellous Easter

Happy Easter to you all!

The sun is shining and we're excited to be out and about around Harpenden over the Easter break. There's a number of local activities happening - everything from the holiday fun fair on the common through to Easter Egg hunts too.

Don't forget to check out the 'What's On' feature in The Harpenden Guide App for details of these local community events.

And whilst you are out and about this weekend we hope that you spot and enjoy the fabulous flowerbed that The Harpenden Guide sponsors in the town. It's looking lovely and giving us all some pleasure as we head into warmer days and spring.

We hope you have a fabulous Easter break. Don't forget that you can get any of your local events added to the App by completing this local event form here and if you've not yet downloaded the mobile app the details are below.

The Harpenden Guide App is a free local resource and can be downloaded from the Android and iOS App Stores. If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

And our 2022-2023 Headline Sponsor is...

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 12:30:59 GMT

Our 2022-23 Headline Sponsor

We're delighted to report that Lyndhurst Financial Management have agreed to be our Headline Sponsor for another year. As a local community initiative, we're delighted that this local business has, once again, seen the value of partnering with The Harpenden Guide Community App.

Peter Barker, Founder of The Harpenden Guide said...

'Over the last year, The Harpenden Guide has become an important local community resource for local people. Over 3,200 local people currently use the App to get information about Harpenden and we have more exciting plans this year to continue that growth.

'So much has happened since we launched the App in 2021, at the height of the pandemic, and the feedback we've received on this community resource has been fabulous. We're very much looking forward to working with the team at Lyndhurst Financial Management this year to take our community app to exciting new heights too'.

Adam Cook, Company Director at Lyndhurst Financial Management said...

'As a local community focused business, we're delighted to be supporting The Harpenden Guide Community App again this year as their Headline Sponsor. We're looking forward to working with the team to support the continued growth of this local initiative and also provide local people with helpful information, advice and updates to support them in their own financial wellbeing.

'We look forward to another fruitful year of supporting this important local community initiative'.

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

For more information about our Headline Sponsor visit them here...

Our Most Popular Mobile App Feature is...

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 08:15:58 GMT

Our 'Local Business' Feature tops the bill

It's Official - the 'Local Business' feature in The Harpenden Guide App was the most popular feature in the last year that was accessed and used by the growing user base of the App (currently over 3,200 local people).

That was closely followed by the 'What's On' feature and the 'Local News' feature followed closely behind in third place.

The original aim of The Harpenden Guide Community App, right from the outset, was always to be a local 'pocket-guide' to Harpenden to provide local people with helpful and interesting information about our fabulous town.

We think we've achieved that well and in the last year there were over 26,000 visits to the App by people looking to get helpful local information and updates.

We have some exciting plans to continue our growth this year too and we're excited for what the future holds for this important local community resource.

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

Monthly News - Lyndhurst Financial Management

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 21:43:52 GMT

Sir John Lawes School Careers Day

News, Updates and helpful Financial Information from our Headline Sponsor

Lyndhurst Financial Management

We had a great day out yesterday at Sir John Lawes School in Harpenden talking to students in years 10, 11 and 12 from Sir John Laws as well as students from Priory Academy, Robert Barclay Academy, Samuel Ryder Academy, Roundwood Park School and St George’s School.

It felt like there must have been close to 900 students passing through the main hall, some of which we were fortunate enough to talk to and were interested in considering a career in financial services. Jo Haigh one of our chartered financial planners supports the Chartered Insurance Institute in promoting careers and was able to offer some great guidance and documentation for the students to take away about apprenticeship schemes, study paths with the CII and the type of roles that are available outside of what Lyndhurst can offer in insurance, such as an Actuary, Loss Assessor or Cyber Analyst amongst others.

It was an incredibly well organised event and I was impressed by the way the students conducted themselves. Of the ones we spoke to, many were excited to work in a role that helps others which is what we do, helping our clients to make better financial decisions. Lyndhurst are happy to support the students in finding their career through work experience which we offer to local schools as much as possible.

We hope to be invited back next year and look forward to it.

Adam Cook

Operations Director

Lyndhurst Financial Management

https://lyndhurstfm.co.uk/

Our 7 Day Free Prize Draw is now live...

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 17:39:50 GMT

Lift Off for our Free Prize Giveway...

We have lift off... The Harpenden Guide's fabulous 7 Day Free Prize Giveaway is underway and we'll be giving away some fabulous prizes to local people over the next week to celebrate our first birthday.

We've got literally thousands of pounds of prizes to giveaway so make sure that you get your free entry submitted each day to stand a chance of being a winner.

Everything from luxurious jewellery, aerial photos of your home, GPS treasure hunts, Life Coaching Sessions, Pet Consultations, Health and Fitness Sessions and even a fabulous holiday for two are up for grabs.

Head over to our Birthday Bonanza page to find out more and make sure you download the App and take part.

You've got to be 'innit to winnit' so download the App today and take a look.

We have some exciting birthday news...

Sat, 08 Jan 2022 13:49:25 GMT

Celebrate with us and win, win, win...

To celebrate our first birthday, we'll be giving away thousands of pounds of fabulous prizes to local people in Harpenden (and the surrounding area) in our free Birthday Bonanza Giveaway.

Our daily free prize draw kicks off soon so keep an eye on The Harpenden Guide App and our scoial media channels as we announce some fabulous prizes that will be up for grabs from local companies.

Everything from beautiful jewellery, superb 1-2-1 personal training sessions, stunning aerial photographs of your home, life-changing life coaching sessions, unique GPS treasure hunts PLUS an amazing week's holiday for two people!

And it's super easy to enter - and completely FREE too!

Simply Download The Harpenden Guide App and keep an eye out for the 'Birthday Bonanza Giveaway' entry form that will be appearing very soon and you could be the lucky winner of one of our special birthday prizes each day.

GET READY FOR SOME GREAT GIVEAWAYS

If you've not yet got The Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

Happy New Year from The Harpenden Guide

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 18:22:53 GMT

Happy New Year - 2022 here we come...

Wow - we can't quite believe it's 2022... And what a year 2021 turned out to be...

Happy New Year to you all from us all at The Harpenden Guide Community App.

We can't quite believe that it was almost a year ago when we decided that our family's annual 'community project' would focus around supporting small local businesses and helping local people stay connected during Covid.

And so the idea for 'The Harpenden Guide Community App' was born.

As we near the first anniversary of this free local community resource, we continue to be overwhelmed with the response it receives locally. With over 17% of the local population (aged between 18-65) now using the app, the fun facts above prove it has clearly met a need for our locally community.

Our plans are for bigger and better things in 2022 so watch this space!

#localcommunity #charitysupport #smallbusinesssupport #harpenden

DON'T FORGET

If you've not yet got The Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

Santa is on his way around Harpenden...

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 09:17:37 GMT

The big man is in Harpenden...

Ho ho ho... the big man is doing his annual round of pre-Xmas visits to do his bit for local charities - and you can find out where he'll be visiting this year on a dedicated website here...

The local Harpenden Round Table are, once again, pulling out all the stops to ensure that Santa gets around as many areas of Harpenden as possible. And at the same time Santa is doing his bit to support some great charities with his visits around the district.

Last year they raised over £14,000 for three great charities and this year they'll be supporting The Ollie Foundation, Round Table Children's Wish and Save the Children.

Don't miss out this year and find out more about this fabulous local initiative here...

If you've not yet got The Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

The Postbox Toppers are back...

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 08:46:26 GMT

Festive fundraising for local causes

The Post box Toppers are back and here to provide local people with some festive smiles.

We were delighted to be able to support this fabulous local initiative last night and head out on a stealth mission, under the cover of darkness, to brighten up the post boxes across the District with these fabulous toppers.

This year the campaign hopes to raise even more funds for two fabulous local charities – Youth Talk and ADD-Vance . So many people have been involved to make this happen and it's been great to be able to play a small part in this lovely Xmas initiative.

This year there are 82 fabulously festive post boxes beautifully adorned with a festive topper all around Harpenden, St Albans, Wheathamsted, Park Street, Redbourn, London Colney, Colney Heath and Sandridge.

And you can get involved and make a donation to this fabulous festive project by clicking the button below...

And there's a fabulous competition as well to spot them all over the coming weeks.

Simply download the 'Eyes for St Albans App' by scanning the QR code and head to the St Albans Postboxes link for more details.

Find out more at www.stalbanspostboxes.org.uk. #stalbanspostboxes

Help raise a smile for kids in need this Christmas

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:59:36 GMT

Local people bringing some Xmas cheer to kids in need

We're delighted to be supporting this fabulous local initiative this year, organised and co-ordinated by a local Harpenden family (pictured above) to help provide some love and support to local children in the Farley Hill area of Luton this Xmas.

Farley Hill, in Luton, is in the top 10% of deprived areas in the UK and Christmas presents are often a luxury that families living in that area can't afford.

This innovative project, providing gifts for families in need, is being organised and co-ordinated by local businessman Tony Fields (The Katalyst Coach) and his wife Melissa who are collecting presents donated by local people for distributing to less fortunate families this year.

Would you love to make Christmas magical this year for 300 children living in poverty locally?

Then here's what you can do...

Simply head over to Amazon to see the 'Gift Lists' that have been created for different ages groups. Simply make a purchase and the gift you have made will be sent directly to Tony & Melissa who are collecting and co-ordinating the gifts, donated by you, to sort and distribute to needy families in the run up to Xmas day.

What can I buy?
Here's some ideas on gifts to purchase that have been put together as Amazon gift lists for each age group.

0-2 years
https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/12QE4IKK41MKW

2-4 years
https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2Z4K4PSYGWSHE

5-7 years

https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/1G1ZTVNK3Q9AA

8-10 years

https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2SQ1T34SLBQ23

10-12 years

https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/38HAELVKF6QF2

12-14 years

https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/5XTY9J01TZR0

14-16 years

https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/31MPQ4HBTDPD7

16-18 years

https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/365HQYACJ43G

From the comfort of your own home all you have to do is click through to make a purchase and help make a difference this Xmas. All the gifts will be delivered directly to Tony and Melissa for distribution to needy families in the run up to Christmas.

Please note that the final date for ordering presents is 12 ^th December . The Field Family are delivering them all on the 16 ^th December and will need a few days to do all of the wrapping!

If you need any further information on this exciting local initiaitive please do not hesitate to contact Tony Fields - tony@thekatalystcoach.com or on 07977 918862 .

Creating a Positive Impact in Harpenden

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 22:21:16 GMT

Making a Positive Impact

Well, we didn't bring home the trophy this time but are so proud of being a Finalist and Runners Up in the 'Positive Impact Award' at the Hertfordshire Business Awards. We were pipped at the final post by a great community initiative called Bambuubrush (https://bambuubrush.com) who won on this occasion.

Kath and Peter were away on holiday on the night of the awards so Jess and Oli held the fort and had a great evening at the Awards Ceremony at Hunton Park Hotel in Watford.

When we launched The Harpenden Guide Community App we never dreamed that it would gain such traction so quickly and we're delighted that the support for and interest in the app continues to grow each week.

We'll be continuing on our mission to support the local community and local businesses in and around Harpenden and thank you all for your continued support.

Supporting the Postbox Toppers Charity Fundraiser

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 18:10:28 GMT

We're supporting this year's fundraiser

The local Xmas campaign to spread some joy around the local area in St Albans and Harpenden is underway...

Last year this local 'yarn bomb' was a phenomenal success, raising over £25,000 for worthy local causes. This year the team are aiming for more toppers and raising even more for their two chosen charities – Youth Talk and ADD-Vance.

They'll be over 50 post boxes 'topped' as part of this fabulous event a nd Harpenden will be an important part of this fun-filled festive activity with around 7 post boxes in the town being suitably dressed for the festive period too.

And The Harpenden Guide is getting involved too and sponsoring the postbox in the town centre...

And you and your business can get involved too.

Sponsor a Postbox

Note: A minimum donation of £100 is required to sponsor a single postbox. If you wish to choose the location then the minimum donation is £125. Please contact the team if there are any queries.

This is a fabulous local campaign to raise money for worthy local causes so please do help spread the word. You can find out all the details here...

https://www.stalbanspostboxes.org.uk /

Follow the Trail

There will be a great festive trail to follow to find all the local toppers (there will be over 50 in St Albans and Harpenden) so it's a great fun way to enjoy a family day out.

All the details about the trail and how to get involved will be published on the website so make sure you register to take part and you might even win som fabulous prizes!

Find out more about the competiton here - https://www.stalbanspostboxes.org.uk/the-competition/

Make a Postbox Topper

If you'd like to get involved in knitting/crocheting a topper it's not too late – email hq@stalbanspostboxes.org.uk for all the details. But you’ll need to move quickly as the team need them completed in early November! They can provide wool, some patterns and ideas so drop them a line!

All the money goes directly to the chosen charities so please do get involved.

If you've not yet got the Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

Could we be an Award Winning App?

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 22:06:27 GMT

Creating a Positive Impact...

Wow - we're delighted to announce that The Harpenden Guide Community App has been shortlised for an Award - The 'Positive Impact' Award - at this year's Hertfordshire Business Awards .

When we launched the App at the height of the Covid lockdowns earlier this year, we wanted to create something that helped local people and supported local businesses. It felt timely as part of our annual commitment to put something back into our local community.

After sounding out a few people we took the plunge and in January 2021, The Harpenden Guide was launched as a free Community App to help local people and to support local businesses.

Little did we know at the time that in less than 6 months, nearly 3,000 local people would be regularly using the App on their mobile devices to keep up-to-date with local news, community information and updates.

And that's continuing to grow every day.

Everything from 'What's On' and 'Covid Updates' to providing a directory of local businesees to help them promote themselves to local people.

And now The Harpenden Guide Community App has been shortlisted as a Finalist for the 'Positive Impact' Award - WOW!

There's nothing more rewarding than 'giving back' and helping to make a difference in the lives of others and we hope that the small contribution we have made to our local community spurs others on to do the same.

Of course, we're over the moon that 'The Harpenden Guide' Community App has been recognised in this way and hope that the App goes all the way and wins the Award but, more importantly, continues to keep making a positive impact on our local community.

Keep everything crossed for us at the Awards Ceremony on 28th October when the winners will be announced!

Peter, Kath, Jess & Sophie
The Harpenden Guide

New 'Book a Table' feature coming soon

Sat, 31 Jul 2021 10:02:06 GMT

'Book a Table' feature coming soon...

As The Harpenden Guide continues to innovate and grow, we're delighted to let you all know that we're currently working on an exciting new feature that will enable you to quickly and easily 'Book a Table' at a wide range of local restuarants, cafes and food establishments in and around Harpenden directly from the app.

It'll take us a little while to get this built out and set up but our new 'Book a Restaurant' feature will enable you to search through the local listings and then quickly dive in to book a table online. Quick, easy and hassle free!

We'll be running an awareness campaign with local restuarants and eating places over the next few weeks to get them all signed up and added and once that's done we'll be launching this exciting new feature.

Watch this space in the knowledge that eating out locally is just about to get so much quicker and easier!

If you own a local eating establishment and would like to claim your listing you can find all the details here...

If you've not yet got The Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App.. .

Supporting Local Charities & Voluntary Organisations

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 18:05:52 GMT

Claim a Free Charity Listing on The Harpenden Guide

As The Harpenden Guide App continues to grow and be adopted by more and more local people, we wanted to be able to support local charities and voluntary organisations to help them raise awareness of the work they do.

As such, we've expanded the 'Community Directory' in the App so local charities and voluntary organisations can easily get listed. We've also added a new page to the website so they can easily claim their free-for-life Bronze Listing in the App or take advantage of a 50% discounted Silver or Gold Listing.

If you are involved in a local charity or voluntary organisation then simply head here to claim your local listing .

In addition local organisations can promote and publicise their event in the 'What's On' feature in the App free of charge too. Simply complete the form here and we'll get the details of your event programmed into the app to share with the thousands of local people who now use it to find out what's going on in Harpenden.

If you've not yet got The Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Defibrillator Locations in Harpenden

Sat, 24 Jul 2021 16:28:38 GMT

Local Defibrillators in Harpenden

Thanks to local resident Phil Tredinnick for the suggestion that we include details on local defibrillators that can be found in Harpenden.

We've done alot of searching around and whilst there isn't a single definitive list of these, there are a few different online resources that provide details. As such, we've linked to the National Defibrillator Database from the App so simply add the postcode of your location into the search box and you will then be able to view registered defibrillators in Harpenden and the surrounding areas.

You can also use the following sites to gain information on defibrillators in Harpenden too.

National Defibrillator Database

Heartsafe Map

A defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy electric shock to the heart of someone who is in cardiac arrest. This high energy shock is called defibrillation, and it's an essential part in trying to save the life of someone who’s in cardiac arrest. A defibrillator may also be referred to as a defib, an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) or a PAD (Public Access Defibrillator).

4 steps to take if someone is having a cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrests can happen to anyone, at any time. The following steps give someone the best chance of survival. If you come across someone in cardiac arrest:

1. Call 999

2. Start CPR

3. Ask someone to bring a defibrillator if there’s one nearby (if no one is available to get one, listen to the emergency operator for further instructions)

4. Turn on the defibrillator and follow its instructions.

For more information, read this guide to defibrillators from the Resuscitation Council .

If you've not yet got the Harpenden Guide app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

We're dropping through your door...

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 21:16:12 GMT

Shouting about the App...

We've been out pounding the streets again this weekend to help share more details about the Harpenden Guide with local people.

With the app now living on over 2,500 local peoples' smart phones we're still working hard to raise awareness so more local people can benefit from this unique app.

Whether you're looking for things to do, need the help of a local business, want to catch up on the local news, need to check the latest Covid advice or just want to know what's happening then The Harpenden Guide can help.

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Local Job Opportunities Feature Now Available

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 10:07:08 GMT

New Job Vacancies feature launched

As The Harpenden Guide continues to grow and evolve we're delighted to bring you a brand new feature to link you to local job opportunities in Harpenden and the surrounding areas.

We've linked up with the number one recruitment site 'Indeed' to focus on local jobs being advertised in and around Harpenden. I f you are looking for a local job opportunity then don't forget to take a look at the 'Job Vacancies' feature that is now available in The Harpenden Guide Community App.

If you have any feedback, thoughts or ideas then feel free to share them with us at any time. The App continues to go from strength to strength based on your feedback and ideas so please do share your insight with us.

We hope you find this new feature helpful.

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Flower Power wins the day in Harpenden

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 10:27:26 GMT

Our Sponsored Flowerbed is blooming marvellous

Who doesn't love some pretty flowers to brighten up their day?

Well we love them so much we decided to sponsor one of the flowerbeds in Harpenden to help bring some colour to the lives of local people! And we're delighted with the result!

Our sponsored flowerbed has now been completed and is looking stunning. As a community initiative, being at the heart of Harpenden life is really important to us and supporting our local community is an important part of what we do here at The Harpenden Guide so it's great to see this in full bloom.

We hope that this brings some brightness to your days as you wander through the town.

And if you're passing our flowers, why not take a selfie by the sign, send it over to us and we'll give you a shout out on our social media channels!

What a blooming marvellous initiative the 'Harpenden in Bloom' is - well down Harpenden Town Council!

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Over 2,500 local people can't be wrong...

Sat, 19 Jun 2021 12:42:56 GMT

App downloads hit a new high...

We hit a new milestone this week when the downloads of The Harpenden Guide tipped over 2,500!

That's over 10% of the local population over 18 that now have downloaded this unique community app to their mobile phone so clearly The Harpenden Guide is earning it's place as the 'go to' resource for information, updates and insight into what's happening in our local town.

We continue to be buoyed by the level of interest and enthusiasm for this local community resource and will continue to develop and grow it based on the feedback we get from you, the people of Harpenden.

Whether you are looking for details on 'what's on' locally, need to find a local business, want to get information on local schools or community organisations, are looking for a place to go or simply just want to keep up to date with what's happening in Harpenden then this unique community app is the place to go.

Please do continue to 'share the love' and tell your local family and friends about this community resource. We continue to have some great plans for the app to keep putting Harpenden on the map so if there is anything you want to see included just let us know.

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Shouting about The Harpenden Guide

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 17:10:26 GMT

Pounding the streets of Harpenden

With such a sunny weekend we thought we'd once again get out and about pounding the streets of Harpenden to help shout about The Harpenden Guide Community App. And what a productive few hours we had too!

Not only did we mange to deliver several hundered postcards to local homes (if you live in the Eastmoor Park and East Common area you might have seen us!) we also spoke to a number of local shop owners too who have kindly agreed to put up posters promoting this unique community resource too.

We continue to be over whelmed with great comments from local people who have downloaded the free community app to their Smartphones. It really spurs us on to continue driving this community initiative when we hear from you all so please do continue to share your thoughts, feedback and ideas too. The Harpenden Guide is a unique community resource that belongs to us all so please do use it and suggest ideas that you'd like to see too.

Hope you've all had a lovely weekend in the sunshine!

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

A Blooming Success for The Harpenden Guide

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 21:26:34 GMT

Everything is coming up roses...

Who doesn't love a nice colourful flowerbed to brighten up the place?

Well here at The Harpenden Guide we love to see a splash of colour to brighten the place up with some flowers that's why we're delighted to be sponsoring one of the flower beds in Harpenden this year as part of the 'Harpenden in Bloom' initiative.

The sign has now gone up and we're just waiting for the bed to be planted with some lovely flowers (anyday soon) to help bring some colour to the area as people stroll through the town. As soon the bed has been planted out we'll post some pictures but needless to say we're looking forward to seeing the area come to life shortly.

If you're walking past W H Smiths in the town, our flower bed is just on the end by the path so do take a moment to stop and enjoy the sights and smells as part of this fabulous initiative to brighten up the town.

We love supporting our local community and if in return a few more people benefit from seeing details about The Harpenden Guide that's a good thing all round.

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Three New Gold Partners join The Harpenden Guide

Sat, 22 May 2021 12:02:07 GMT

Welcome Aboard

It's been a busy week here at The Harpenden Guide ! Not only have we updated the 'What's on' feature with details on a range of local events, we've also welcomed three new Gold Partners to the guide and have now uploaded all their business details. So, welcome aboard to Harpenden Tutors, Jeve Group and IGM Plumbing and Heating.

One of the key reasons for starting The Harpenden Guide Community App was to provide local businesses with a unique way to promote themselves to local people and we're so pleased to see this growing as the App goes from strength to strength. We now have over 150 locally owned small businesses promoting themselves on the App and that's growing as each week passes.

And with 2,361 local people having now downloaded the App to their phone to date, The Harpenden Guide is fast becoming the 'go to' resource for local people to find out everything and anything about our town and the local area.

Please do use the services of these local businesses and support them. You can find out more and get further details under the 'Local Buinsess' Directory in the App. They are all based in and around Harpenden and it's always good for local people to shop local and support this important part of our local community.

And don't forget to encourage your local family and friends to download the App too so they don't miss out either!

If you've not yet got the app downloaded on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

The Story so far - highlights of our journey to date...

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Fri, 07 May 2021 09:32:22 GMT

Some highlights so far...

Wow - we can't quite believe it's been 5 months since we launched The Harpenden Guide Community App - time certainly flies when you are having fun! As we've just hit another great milestone of over 2,250 people downloading the app, we thought we'd share some details on our milestones so far...

As of today, 2,278 people have the App downloaded on their mobile phone - that has already hugely exceeded our initial expectations which is fabulous! That's over 13% of all local people between 18-64! ( Source: City Population ) which is an incredible statistic in a relatively short period of time!
We have welcomed over 150 local businesses and organisations onto the guide with unique business listings.
We have supported local organisations helping them to promote their events and activities.
We have welcomed a local 'Headline Sponsor' and are delighted to be working with Lyndhurst Financial Management on growing the App.
We have delivered promotional postcards promoting the App to over 3,000 homes in Harpenden and that is growing each day.
We have given away a holiday to Spain as part of our launch competition - well done Tracy Wilkins, Local Resident and Business Owner of Fusion Childcare Services.
We have 'bounced back' after a huge fire at the data centre that hosts out App services and took us offline for over a week.
We have provided local people with a range of helpful resources to support people during the Covid-19 pandemic.
We have had over 1,000 people start following us on our social media channels.
We have added new features to the App based on user feedback including the locations of local postboxes, local properties for sale, local walks and made regular updates throughout the app on local offers and what's on locally too.
Our website - www.harpendenguide.co.uk - has received over 6,700 visitors and over 13,000 page views.
We have been featured on local radio, local websites and also had an article written about the App in the local 'Forum' Magazine that's delivered to every household in Harpenden.
We have agreed to sponsor one of the flowerbeds in the town (just near W H Smiths) - who doesn't love some nice pretty flowers!
We have circulated posters to local shops and stores to continue raising awareness and will be continuing with that now they are opening up more.
We've had so many lovely comments from local people saying how much they love this unique 'pocket guide to Harpenden' so huge thanks to you all too!

Phew - that's quite alot in a reasonably short period of time! And we have so many good ideas still to implement to ensure that The Harpenden Guide continues to flourish and become the 'go to' resource for ALL local people on all things Harpenden.

Please do continue to shout about and share details of this local community app. It's success is driven by you, our app users, so please continue to share your thoughts, requests and updates as the exciting journey continues.

If you've not yet got the app downloaed on your device (it's free!) then you can get it here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Over 2,250 Harpenden folk now have the App!

Wed, 05 May 2021 08:51:55 GMT

Over 2,250 local people can't be wrong...

This week 'The Harpenden Guide' has hit a new high and over 2,250 people now have the App on their mobile device... and that's still continuing to grow every day!

That's over 13% of all local people between 18-64! (Source: City Population ) which is an incredible statistic in a relatively short period of time!

When we launched The Harpenden Guide Community App at the start of the year, we were hopeful that local people and local businesses would adopt it and find it a great local resource to keep up to date with all things Harpenden. And whilst we didn't really know what the take up would be like until we got it out there, it has exceeded all our expectations.

Since those humble beginnings we've had so many great comments from local people who have downloaded the App and are using it to keep up-to-date with local news, businesses, events and so much more too. We've been active locally on social media too and attracted over 1,000 social media followers and our local postcard campaigns have also helped us get the message out there too.

The Harpenden Guide has firmly secured its place within the local community and is here and here to stay!

Please do continue to shout about this community initiative and help us continue spreading the word so more local people can benefit from this free community resource too.

If you've not yet downloaded the free app, click the links to the iOS App Store and Android App Store today...

Onwards and upwards!

House Hunting in The Harpenden Guide

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 20:47:27 GMT

Harpenden Houses for Sale

Looking to move home in Harpenden? Then you'll love the new link we've provided in The Harpenden Guide to link out to local houses on the market.

Thanks to all those people who suggested that this would be a useful feature, this has now been added to the App. The feature will enable you to see an up-to-date list of all the local properties currently listed by Right Move.

Simply open the App and tap the 'For Sale' feature to link straight through to Harpenden properties for sale.

So, if you're looking to move home or buy a house locally (or are just wanting to be nosey!) then check out the latest new 'For Sale' feature in the app.

If you've not yet downloaded The Harpenden Guide Community App you can do so here...

Download the iOS App...

Download the Android App...

Harpenden Covid Testing Information

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 06:54:39 GMT

Local Testing Information

As life starts to get back to some sort of 'new normal' it's clear that Covid Testing and vaccinations will continue to be a normal part of day to day life. As such, we received a request from one of our App Users to provide information in The Harpenden Guide about local testing and where people can easily get hold of lateral flow test kits too.

So, as part of our wish to continually develop and grow the Guide with helpful information, we've included some new information on 'Testing for Coronavirus' under the 'Covid Resources' section of the App. The local details that you can now find are as follows...

Information on Coronavirus Testing
PCR Tests - how to book
Lateral Flow Tests - Local Suppliers

Thanks to Judith Newton for suggesting this new addition and to others too for the helpful feedback and suggestions we have received to date. The Harpenden Guide Community App will continue to grow and add new information based on your feedback so please do continue to provide ideas on things you'd like to see in the App.

And thanks Judith for sharing your thoughts - it is appreciated!

If you've not yet downloaded The Harpenden Guide Community App you can do so here...

Celebrating 2,000 App Downloads

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 22:38:21 GMT

Over 2,000 local people can't be wrong...

WOW - The Harpenden Guide has now been downloaded by over 2,000 local people... and that's still continuing to grow every day!

That's about 12% of all local people between 18-64! (Source: City Population ) which is an incredible statistic in a relatively short period of time!

Last month we were also delighted to welcome onboard our Headline Sponsor - Lyndhurst Financial Managment - and we know that the App will continue to go from strength to strength.

The Harpenden Guide has firmly secured its place within the local community and is here and here to stay!

Please do continue to shout about this community initiative and help us continue spreading the word so more local people can benefit from this free community resource too.

If you've not yet downloaded the free app, click the links to the iOS App Store and Android App Store today...

Onwards and upwards!

Celebrating the reopening of local businesses

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 19:41:39 GMT

Grab a Discounted Business Listing

Hooray - shops and businesses will be re-opening again on Monday!

We're so excited and to help kick start this momentous occasion we're offering any local business a great opportunity to get listed on The Harpenden Guide .

Yes... for the next week only, we'll be providing a unique 25% discount for any local business taking out a Bronze, Silver or Gold Listing on The Harpenden Guide Community App.

Some interesting facts...

Over 1,800 local people now have the App downloaded on their mobile phone.

Over 1,000 local people follow us on our social media

So, if you get listed on the Guide you'll be putting your business infront of a great audience of local people and only ever be an arm's length away from potential customers.

Remember, this offer ends on 18th April so make sure you act today...

Great Walks around Harpenden

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 20:00:08 GMT

Enjoy getting out and about in Harpenden...

As the weather starts to improve, we're delighted to be able to bring you some great new additions to the 'Where to Walk' feature in The Harpenden Guide .

We're so lucky to have some great spaces in and around Harpenden to get out and enjoy the fresh air and a lovely walk. So, as part of our continuous development, we've expanded the 'Where to Walk' feature in The Harpenden Guide to include some great planned walking routes in and around Harpenden in addition to the more general areas to enjoy a walk.

By teaming up with the popular local website Your Harpenden we've been able to list some of the popular planned walking routes that they feature on their site too.

We're planning on adding to this popular feature over the coming weeks and months so take a look at the 'Where to Walk' feature (listed under the Local Directories) in T he Harpenden Guide to unlock some great walks and discover new areas in and around our fabulous town.

If you know of any great walks too then please do contact us and we'll add them to this section to share with the rest of our users.

Not got the App on your phone? Then download it using the links here...

Know your Harpenden Post Boxes

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 16:37:17 GMT

This is a great 'post' for local people!

We've all been there - we're out and about and forget to post that important letter that we need to get sent off today before 5pm. But you're not going to be back in time to post the letter before the final collection at your local Harpenden post box!

Well fear not... After a number of requests from The Harpenden Guide App Users we're delighted to have now added an interactive map showing you the location of all the local post boxes in an around Harpenden. Where known we've also included the last posting times to help you make sure you never miss a posting deadline again! You can view the Harpenden Postbox feature from the App's main page so we hope that it is another helpful addition to your local pocket guide to Harpenden.

We love to get feedback and ideas from our App Users so thank you soo much to all those poeple who have taken the time to share their ideas to date. The Harpenden Guide will continue to develop and grow off the back of your ideas and feedback so thanks and please do keep sharing your ideas.

We hope that this proves to be another useful addition to your local app but if there's any queries please do just let us know!

Download the App on Android

Download the App on iOS

Announcing our Headline Sponsors

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 22:04:54 GMT

Announcing our Headline Sponsor...

Today may be 'Good Friday' but for The Harpenden Guide it's a 'Great Friday'!

Why? Because the news is out and today we're delighted to welcome our brand new Headline Sponsor of The Harpenden Guide. Please step forward and take a bow Lyndhurst Financial Management ...

Founded in 1992 Lyndhurst Financial Management is based in Harpenden and has grown to become one of the leading independent financial planning and advisory firms in Hertfordshire. As a company they focus on helping clients at all stages of their financial journey to achieve their financial goals in life.

As a unique and new community resource, we were always keen to find a suitable local business to partner with us as a headline sponsor and it's great to be able to partner with this established and community-focused local business

Peter Barker, Founder of The Harpenden Guide said.. 'we're delighted to be partnering with Lyndhurst Financial Management as the Headline Sponsor for the Harpenden Guide Community App. As part of our search for a suitable sponsor, we were really keen to bring on board not just a local business but one that recognises the importance of supporting the local community too.

'We've been overwhelmed with the positive feedback the App has received from local businesses and local people since it launched in late January and we're looking forward to working alongside the team at Lyndhurst to ensure that the App continues to grow and becomes the 'go to' resource for local people on all things Harpenden'.

Adam Cook, Operations Director at Lyndhurst Financial Management said 'the team at Lyndhurst Financial Management are delighted to be supporting the developers of The Harpenden Guide Community App in providing our local community with a valuable “one stop shop” for all things Harpenden. Both Peter and Kath share our commitment to putting something back into the community and helping make Harpenden and the surrounding area a great place to live, work and play'.

Watch this space as our partnership to support local people and local businesses continues to flourish over the coming weeks and months.

In the words of 'Take That'... We're 'Back for Good'!

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 21:10:08 GMT

Welcome Back... We've missed you...

WOW - In the immortal words of 'Take That', we're 'Back for Good'!

After what has been a challenging, frustrating and difficult couple of weeks, following a huge fire at the data centre that holds and hosts our App, we're finally back up and running. And we have big plans to make up for lost time.

When the fire first hit we thought we may be off line for a few days but as the damage was surveyed it quickly became clear that it would be a huge operation to restore all the services. And whilst we think The Harpenden Guide is the most important thing in the world, big banks, international businesses and even Google jumped the queue in front of us to get their services up first - how rude!

Still, we're back online and fired up (excuse the pun) and we'll be making up for lost time and have soooo much to update you all on over the coming weeks.

So, welcome back!

We missed you and we have some great plans in place starting with some exciting news to announce later this week so keep 'em peeled' and watch out for some exciting announcements.

Spreading the word across Harpenden

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 22:21:39 GMT

Local 'Forum' Magazine features The Harpenden Guide

We were delighted to be approached by the Editor of 'The Forum' Magazine to be interviewed about the Harpenden Guide Community App. Since it's launch it's created alot of interest locally and the Magazine was keen to run a feature to raise awareness of the App to local people.

The Magazine is published by Harpenden Town Council and is delivered to every household in the District so it was a great way to help raise awareness of this exciting new community resource and local initiative.

We've launched the App to help support local businesses and keep the local community up-to-date during the pandemic and it's been great to see how well this has been received.

You can download a copy of the feature by clicking here...

Large data centre fire causes App issues

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 07:55:25 GMT

Data Centre fire causing widespread issues

A large fire at the global data centre in Strasbourg where our app databases are stored has caused widespread outages and problems too for The Harpenden Guide . As such, the app is currently unavailable and users will experience issues trying to access information.

The provider is working hard to ensure that their data recovery and back up plan swings into action but we are expecting continued issues whilst services are restored. You can read more about the fire here...

We're sorry for any inconvenience this causes people but I'm sure you understand that this is totally outside of our control. We will post updates as soon as we have more information.

UPDATE - 24th March 2021

It is now nearly two weeks since the fire and this is the latest update we have so far. This has been a frustrating time that has had a big impact on us and progress from our data centre provider has been much slower than we would have expected. A lot of servers in SBG3 (where our services are stored) are now being restarted so we are hoping that we'll be back on soon. The map here shows the server locations that have been restored so far - http://status.ovh.com/vms/index_sbg3.html - and from our understanding our services are based in S341 so you can see that things are restarting there. As soon as we have any further updates we'll update things here so do feel free to check back at any time.

UPDATE - 22nd March 2021

Well, it's been over a week now that our services have been hugely impacted and we are still not yet back up and running following this huge fire. Services are now being restored and the data centre provider has provided this link so we can see how the server restarts are being updated. http://status.ovh.com/vms/index_sbg3.html . Fingers crossed that we see better progress this week. We apologise for the ongoing disruption to our app.

UPDATE - 17th March 2021

The latest news is still that services are aiming to be restarted from Monday 22nd March. The delay has been caused by a number of the service back ups having been destroyed so we've just got to wait until our original server data is restored. As soon as we are back up and running we'll be shouting loud and picking up where we left off with the App!

UPDATE - 15th March 2021

Work is continuing to to restore services following the fire at the data centre. We have established that our data was held in the SBG-3 data room and work is progressing to re-power this room at present. We are expecting another week of disruption I'm afraid but it appears that they are expecting services to be gradually resumed this week. All the latest details can be found here... https://www.ovh.ie/news/press/cpl1786.fire-our-strasbourg-site

5pm - Latest Update

We have been given the following schedule from the data centre so it looks like we may be in for another week of disruption....

16th March – Power will be permanently re-connected to the building where our servers are located. The new network room will also be activated.

17th March- The internal network will be redeployed to reconnect our servers to the internet.

19th March – The process of restarting the servers will begin.

22nd March- Services will be back online.

UPDATE - 12th March 2021

Our App continues to be affected following the fire. Whilst some services are being partially restored and some areas of the app may now be accessible, we are still experiencing sporadic outages which we expect to continue over the next few days. We will continue to monitor the situation.

Clearly this has affected ALOT of people - even Russia is blaming this fire on Google not being available too! https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-56345589

Over 1,500 people can't be wrong...

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 07:13:38 GMT

WOW - over 1,500 downloads and counting...

WOW - who'd have thought it...

Over 1,500 local people have now downloaded The Harpenden Guide to their phones... And that's growing everyday!

When we first came up with the concept of designing and creating a unique 'Pocket guide to Harpenden', we really had no idea whether people would find it a useful resource. Our initial conversations with a few local people and businesses suggested that it would definitely fill a need and be a good resource but whether anyone would download such a resource was anybody's guess!

Well, that was only 6 weeks ago and the response has been great! We hit another milestone at the weekend when we tipped over the 1,500 download mark and we now also have over 800 followers on our social media too! Clearly The Harpenden Guide is here to stay!

Add to that, this week we'll be announcing our 'Headline Sponsor' - a local business who was keen to get involved in this community initiative. Watch this space as we'll be unveiling the name of this local business this week!

Thank you all for your support, words of encouragement and ideas. Please do continue to 'shout' about The Harpenden Guide to local family, friends and neighbours so they can benefit too! And watch this space for details of our Headline Sponsor announcement later this week!

The Harpenden Guide Leads the Way...

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 19:03:24 GMT

We lead... Others follow...

Well, it's been another interesting week here at The Harpenden Guide and it's been great to see the number of local people downloading the app continues to grow.

A few highlights...

Welcome to Keech Cottage Hospice Care - we're delighted to welcome this amazing local charity to the App. Do check out their listings in both the Community and Business Directories.

We lead, others follow - it was great to receive calls from other App Developers from across the UK this week all looking for advice and guidance on establishing a local guide App (like The Harpenden Guide ) in their own local areas. Clearly we're leading the way in Harpenden as we received calls from App Developers in Chester, Harrogate, Aylesbury and Chelmsford all keen to 'pick our brains' about creating similar apps in their own areas. Success leaves clues and good news travels first!

Dropping through your door - we've been out in the sunshine too this weekend as part of our continuing 'Neighborhood Postcard Campaign'. This weekend we've been out and about around Moreton End Lane and the surrounding area!

Downloads continue to grow - thank you to everyone who has been shouting about The Harpenden Guide . This week we passed the milestone of over 1,250 downloads of the App and that's growing everyday.

App Sponsorship - we've had three local companies reach out to us asking about how they can get involved as the Headline Sponsor for the App so watch this space!

So, all in all another successful week. Don't forget to share your thoughts on things you'd like to see in the App and don't forget to 'Share the love' with all your local family and friends too!

Have a great week!

What's new in the App this week...

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 23:22:42 GMT

Latest updates and features...

What a week it's been!

We've not only hit our initial goal of over 1,000 downloads in the first four weeks, we've also announced the winner of our great competition to win a holiday in Spain plus we've been beavering away behind the scenes to to develop some great new features off the back of feedback and ideas from you.

So, this week we've added the following updates...

We've welcomed new businesses to the Business Directory - in particular welcome aboard to our new Gold Partner Insideoutrefurb Ltd and our Silver Partner Kenyon Property Maintenance
We've researched and added in listings for Local Nursery/Pre-Schools to the Community Directory
We've announced our Competition winner - well done again Tracy Wilkins!
We've added an additional Play Area - Wood End (don't know how we missed that one!)

And we're working on some other new great ideas thanks to feedback from you too.

Please do continue to 'shout about The Harpenden Guide to your local family and friends!

WOW - 1,000 Downloads and counting...

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 18:07:14 GMT

1,000 local people can't be wrong...

Wow, Wow, Wow... We've done it!

Our initial goal of getting over 1,000 local people to download The Harpenden Guide Community App in the first month has been achieved. And with a day to spare too! :-)

We launched the App on 23rd January 2021 and at 10pm on 19th February 2021 we reached that landmark with 1,004 local people having downloaded the App to their Smartphone. The feedback has been fabulous and we're a little bit overwhelmed that this community initiative has generated so much interest locally too.

What was simply an idea last year to support our local community and local businesses is now alive and kicking and living on the Smartphones of so many local people - and that's continuing to grow by the day!

Our goal was to simply provide local people and businesses with a unique local resource that provided them with local information at their fingertips. And from the feedback we've had we've clearly achieved that and so much more too.

The App will continue to be developed based on your feedback, comments and thoughts and we'll be introducing some great new features too as the App continues to grow and get more traction with local people as well.

Clearly 1,000 downloads is a great start but we're ambitious to make this the 'got to' local resource for all local people so w e'll be pushing now for our next big hairy goal of 2,500 downloads!

Please do continue to spread the word and encourage all your local family and friends to download and start benefiting from The Harpenden Guide . It's a unique free local resource designed by local people for local people so please so shout about it too!

Thanks for your support so far - this really is just the beginning...

Announcing our Competition Winner

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 18:59:53 GMT

We have a Winner...

We're delighted to announce the winner of our fabulous competition to win a holiday in Spain... Drum Roll please...

Please step forward... Tracy Wilkins, Local Resident and Business Owner of Fusion Childcare Services.

You were the lucky winner in our competition draw that took place live on our Facebook Page on Valentine's Day. Tracy will be able to enjoy a lovely weekend in the sun (when we can all travel again!) in Nerja, Spain.

Tracy was over the moon at winning and said...

"Thank you so much - the last time I won a prize I was 10 in a school raffle so winning a holiday is amazing. The Harpenden Guide Community App is a great initiative for local people and I hope that it continues to go from strength to strength. We will continue to shout about it so other local people benefit from this community initiative too".

If you missed the draw you can watch the recording below...

Have you won a Holiday to Spain?

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 09:35:10 GMT

Competition winner announced at 5pm!

Today's the day!

At 5pm this evening we'll be making a Live Draw for the Winner of our launch competition and a fabulous holiday in Spain!

If you're local and you've not yet entered our free competition make sure that you get your entry in before 4.30pm today and you could be jetting off for a romantic week long break once we can all travel again!

The Live Draw will be taking place on our Facebook Page at 5pm tonight so join us there to see if you are the lucky winner!

Full details of the apartment can be found at www.discovernerja.net and the entry form can be completed in the App so download it today!

Get the download links here...

New features launched this week

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 20:45:46 GMT

Weekly Update...

Wow - what a busy week it's been for The Harpenden Guide . Here's just a few highlights to keep you all in the loop with some of the exciting updates and developments...

Recycling Information Added - Thanks to the suggestion of one of our App Users - Deborah Carroll, we've now added a great new section under the 'Community Directory' that provides you with all the local recycling points plus details on the days for local street collections (never forget which bin is being collected on which day again!). Plus we've also listed the local charity shops that take donations too.

Welcome Aboard - Welcome aboard to all the new businesses who have listed on the Business Directory this week. Special welcomes to our new Silver and Gold Partners - Heartwood Garden Design, Showtime Circus, STANTA and Rothamsted Enterprises. Plus a special mention too for local charity Hornbeam Wood Hedgehog Sanctuary (we never knew there was a Hedgehog Sanctuary in Harpenden)!

Ofsted Inspections - We've finished adding links to all the Ofsted Inspections for all local schools. Simply look up the schools in the 'Community Directory' and you'll find a link out to the latest Ofsted inspection.

Dropping through your door - Our local postcard campaign got underway and over 750 households in the Southdown area have now received details about the app. This marketing campaign will be continuing over the coming weeks to ensure that local people don't miss out and are aware of this fabulous new local resource.

Social Media - Our Social Media Genius - Georgia has been busy keeping the world up-to-date on our social media channels so if you're not following us yet on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter do that now!

'Latest Updates' now added to the App - We've linked out to this Blog directly from the App and incorporated a 'Latest Updates' feature so you can keep bang up-to-date with all the latest additions, new features and updates that we've added to constantly improve and develop the App.

The Harpenden Guide really is the 'gift that keeps giving' so keep 'em peeled for more updates and don't forget to share the love and shout about The Harpenden Guide to all your local family and friends too.

Only five days left to win a fabulous holiday

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 19:03:06 GMT

Fancy a week in the sun in Spain?

There's only five days left to enter our unique launch competition to win a unique holiday in Spain!

We'll be drawing the lucky winner from the virtual hat at 5pm on 14th February live on our Facebook page so if you've not yet entered, download the App NOW and get your entry form submitted.

Entry is free and the lucky winner will be able to enjoy a week in the sunshine at a fabulous one bed apartment in Nerja on the Costa Del Sol (post lock down!).

We've been overwhelmed with the initial interest in The Harpenden Guide and the feedback has been great so make sure you download the free App from the stores today. And you never know, you could be heading out to the sunshine when we are all able to travel again!

Download the App today to find out more about this exciting competition and make sure you get your free entry sent over to us in time for the grand draw on 14th February.

Good luck!

Shouting in Southdown... despite the snow

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 15:25:37 GMT

Our Postcard Campaign goes live

Despite the cold and flutters of snow, we've been out and about this weekend promoting The Harpenden Guide in and around Cross Farm and Southdown.

If you live in that area then you'll have received one of our promotional postcards with a few more details encouraging you to download this exciting new community app.

If you've received your card please do shar the news with local family and friends. Over 500 people now have downloaded the app and the feedback has been superb.

Not only have we received great feedback we've also had some great suggestions for new features too so we'll be reviewing all these and adding details over the coming weeks and months. And with over 500 downloads already The Harpenden Guide is clearly having a great impact locally!

It's been a great start and we remain committed to supporting local businesses and making The Harpenden Guide the 'go to resource' for local people to keep them up-to-date with all things Harpenden.

If you see us out and about on our travels please do say hi!

Coming to a letterbox near you soon...

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 22:56:49 GMT

Our Post Card Campaign is live...

Don't forget to keep an eye out on your letter box this weekend....

Why?

Because we'll be out shouting about The Harpenden Guide as our unique postcard marketing campaign gets underway locally.

We'll be out pounding the streets from house to house launching our latest campaign to raise awareness of our exciting new community Smartphone app and to provide local people with more information about this unique 'Pocket Guide to Harpenden'.

We'll be bringing our campaign to your door so if you live locally watch out for these unique postcards dropping through your letterbox over the next couple of weeks.

And don't forget that our unique competition to Win a holiday in Spain (after Covid of course!) is open until 14th February so download the app for further details and get your entry in today!

And don't forget to 'share the love' and tell your local family and friends about The Harpenden Guide too!

Over 400 Downloads and counting...

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 16:23:13 GMT

A big 400 'thumbs up' so far...

Today The Harpenden Guide hit another milestone... And we're delighted!

Even though it only launched last week, the App has today tipped past the 400 download mark which means nearly 2% of the entire local target market (the 22,000 people over 20 living in Harpenden) have downloaded the App.

Since we had the initial idea of producing this App as a local resource to help local people and support local businesses, we've been delighted by the feedback. And clearly over 400 local people agree with us that this is a great 'Pocket guide to Harpenden' for local people.

Our postcard campaign begins next week too so we're looking forward to more people coming on board and using the app to get helpful information about all things Harpenden.

And we're now gunning for our next goal of 500 downloads!

Please do help us 'share the love' and 'spread the word' about The Harpenden Guide - our free Smartphone App for Smart Local People...

The Harpenden Guide hits the airwaves

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 12:43:34 GMT

Interview on Radio Verulam

The Harpenden Guide went live on the radio airwaves today during an interview on Radio Verulam - our local radio station.

It's been great to see the level of local interest over the last few days since we launched the new Community App. And it was great to be able to be interviewed today on our local radio station to talk about The Harpenden Guide App.

We're encouraging all local people to get behind our community initiative and 'shout about the App' so as many local people as possible benefit from this unique resource. It's a great way to keep up to date and have local information at your fingertips too.

If you missed the interview you can listen to by clicking the image below.

And if you've not yet downloaded the app you can get more details here as well. ..

Please do share the love and shout about The Harpenden Guide to all your local family and friends too!

Over 200 downloads in 24 hours...

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 13:30:50 GMT

The Harpenden Guide is LIVE...

WOW - what a great start....

The App went live on 23rd January and there were over 200 downloads in the first 24 hours.

We've been really buoyed by the initial feedback we've received from people with some lovely comments as well as ideas for new features too so thanks to everyone who has contacted us since we launched the App at the weekend.

We're committed to making the App the 'go to' for all things Harpenden so please do 'share the love' and help spread the word by telling your other local family and friends about the The Harpenden Guide.

And don't forget if you download the App before 14th February and help us shout about it on your social media too you could win and amazing holiday in Spain too.

Check out the details here...

The Final Countdown has started...

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 23:46:30 GMT

7 days until we have lift off...

The clock is ticking and we're on the final countdown to the launch of The Harpenden Guide Community App...

And we're getting very excited!

Months of hard work is coming to a head as we finalise the features, update the content and work to get the App published on the App stores (iOS and Android) ready for our launch date of 23rd January 2021.

There is going to be some fabulous information and features to help local peoiple in Harpenden and the surrounding area really get the most out of our local town. Whether you're looking for a local business, want to see what's on at the weekend, need to find a place to take the kids to play and even get the latest statistics and guidance on Covid-19.

The Harpenden Guide really will be a unique 'pocket guide to Harpenden' and like nothing you've seen before.

Keep your eyes peeled this week on our social media as we'll be giving you a sneak preview as we countdown to lift off plus we'll be launching a unique competition as well with an amazing prize so watch this space!

If you want any details before then simply contact us and we'll be happy to help...

The Harpenden Guide appears on Staylocal.tv

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 18:49:43 GMT

Interview on Staylocal.tv

We were delighted to be interviewed today for one of the 'Community Insights' features on Staylocal.tv.

It's great to see the interest that has been generated around the forthcoming launch of The Harpenden Guide and it was a good opportunity to share some more details about this exciting community initiative.

Mike asked some interesting questions that gave us a good opportunity to showcase the app and provide people with more insight on what's coming in the run up to the launch later this month.

The interview is published above - in the meantime keep your eyes peeled for further information as the launch date gets closer.

Local Covid-19 Information to be featured in the App

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 00:10:42 GMT

Local Covid-19 Information to feature in App

As we enter another national lockdown, and with the launch of The Harpenden Guide due in the next couple of weeks, we've decided to include a unique section to support you all with information, advice and guidance on the Covid-19 pandemic.

We're currently working hard to build out this feature so it can be included at launch and it will provide you with all the up-to-date information on local, regional and national Covid statistics plus details on keeping healthy, ideas for lockdown activities and much more.

We recognise that this will be vital information for local people over the next few months so that's why we're working hard to include this dedicated section as a new feature at launch.

If you want to be kept up to date with information and news on The Harpenden Guide in the run up to the launch then complete this form and we'll add you to the list.

The Harpenden Guide is going live this month...

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 13:47:32 GMT

Going Live this month...

Wow - it's 2021 - Happy New Year to you all...

It's also an exciting time for us as The Harpenden Guide goes live this month...

In a few short weeks, we'll be seeing all our hard work come to life when the App goes live. We're still beavering away in the background tweaking features, adding content and we've got the polish out as well to ensure that everything is all sparkling and bright ready for the launch of the App later this month.

We've been blown away by the initial interest in the app and are excited that we already have nearly 100 local businesses listed plus of course loads of information programmed on places to go, where to walk, local offers, latest news and so much more.

We'll be keeping you all up-to-date as we get nearer the launch of the App but in the meantime don't forget to check back here regularly for updates.

And it's not too late to claim your business listing or promote your event too.

Event Listings for 2021 now open - grab yours today!

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 08:41:56 GMT

Shout about your 2021 Events

With the launch of The Harpenden Guide Community App drawing ever closer we're now opening up our 'What's On' feature to enable you to promote your events in 2021!

The Harpenden Guide Community App will be a unique way to keep local people up to date on all things Harpenden - and that includes local events too.

In addition to us listing dates for well established local events - such as The Farmer's Market, Classics on the Common etc - we want local organisations and local people to be able to shout about their events too. That's why we've included a free Event Listing service to help keep people up to date with all that's happening locally.

So, if you're planning a charity fundraiser, Scout jumble sale, community event or simply want to let the local world know of opportunities to get involved in your events then claim your free Event Listing NOW !

All you need to do is head over to our ' Add your Event ' Page, complete the form with your details and we'll look after the rest!

Over 70 Businesses Registered and counting...

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 23:48:17 GMT

Local Businesses flock to register

We've been delighted at the response from local businesses with over 70 businesses now on-board...

Clearly people have seen the benefit of getting listed and claiming their free listing on The Harpenden Guide Community App which is great. This is going to be a great way to expose your business to local people so you'll need to act fast to take advantage of the 'Early Bird' offer that expires in the next week.

We've been busy doing leaflet drops to local businesses and the App is on schedule for a launch in January which is great. We're working hard at present to get everything built and programmed so that it becomes the best 'go to' resource available for local people.

In addition to the free Bronze Listings on offer, we've been delighted to see a number of businesses upgrade their listing to Silver options which gives them the additional benefits of enhanced descriptions, social media links, images and a more comprehensive listing so that they can stand out from the crowd.

And of course the Silver Listing provides those businesses with the opportunity to list a 'special offer' in another section of the App outlining a range of local offers that will help drive business to their door. The 'Local Offers' will be a popular feature of the App and will be a superb way of promoting your offers to a wider audience too.

The initial offer of a free Bronze Listing ends on 20th December so make sure you've grabbed your listing before then.

And don't forget... 'You've got to be 'in it to win it' so get listed today.

Word is out about The Harpenden Guide

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 18:00:47 GMT

The word is getting out there...

This weekend has been busy...

We've been out pounding the streets locally as part of the 'Phase One' pre-launch of The Harpenden Guide to local businesses. We 150% committed to making this local resource a great tool for local businesses to promote themselves to local people and that started in earnest this weekend.

If you're local, you may well have seen us out in the town visiting every shop in the town centre to leave further details with them so they can take advantage of this Community App to help them promote their business.

And on Sunday we were out and about in Southdown with a similar message for the shops and local businesses there too.

The initial feedback on this initiative has been great and we've been really buoyed by the general sense from all that The Harpenden Guide will be a great local resource for all.

Our goal is to make it a complete 'one stop shop' whereby local businesses can promote their wares and local people can get really useful information about out town and local area.

Don't forget that if you're a local business you can grab a completely free listing for your business for the next 12 months so take advantage of this unique opportunity now. And if you're part of a local community organisation or charity then you can get a 'Free for Life' listing too!

We'll be out and about again in the run up to Xmas so if you see us please do stop us and grab a leaflet of simply say 'hi' as we'd love to hear your thoughts on The Harpenden Guide .

First Harpenden Businesses claim their Business Listings

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 23:30:23 GMT

Coppers Boots and Shoes become The Harpenden Guide's first Silver Listing...

Great News...

It's only been five days since we launched 'Phase One' of The Harpenden Guide, and started promoting it to local businesses, and we've been delighted with the response. Already our social media platforms have sprung into life with new followers and local businesses have responded well to this exciting new Community initiative.

Already we've received a good number of responses from local businesses claiming their FREE listing on The Harpenden Guide plus we've also had our first 'Silver Listing' confirmed too.

Congratulations Coppers Boots and Shoes - a well established and traditional family business that's taking advantage of a Silver Listing and is already working up a Special Offer to launch to local people through the App too.

The business has been a familiar part of Harpenden's High Street since 1989, and was formally Blindells dating back to the 1940's. It provides quality footwear for men and women with a contemporary twist whilst upholding the highest level of customer service.

Brands include Ecco, Gabor, Reiker, Geox, Fly, Loake, Josef Seibel, Birkenstock and more. A new range of fine English unisex leather bags for business and pleasure compliment the range, along with fine french leather care brand Saphir. The prominent high street store is open 7 days a week with parking close by and you'll always be assured of a warm welcome.

Our Business Listings are a great way to promote your business and drive new customers to your door. We're anticipating a huge level of interest when the Community App is launched in January so make sure you take advantage of our early bird offers and snap up your business listing today.

Check out all the details here...

Launch to Local Businesses is all systems go...

Sat, 21 Nov 2020 10:08:07 GMT

We have lift off...

The systems have been checked and the final work done and next week we officially 'lift off' and start promoting The Harpenden Guide to local businesses and across the local community.

Phase One will see us launching our social media campaigns to give local businesses and organisations the opportunity to claim a free listing on The Harpenden Guide .

We're determined to make this Community App the best resource available to help local businesses and to provide local people with a unique way of accessing a wide range of local information too.

So, Phase One is almost live and will be all about shouting out to local businesses to get listed and then Phase Two will kick in to start warming up local people about what's coming and what's in-store!

Please feel free to share this exciting news with any local business that you feel may benefit!

Grab a FREE Listing in The Harpenden Guide

peter@peterbarker.net (Peter Barker) — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 23:19:22 GMT

Secure your Free Listing for Life

As part of our Pre-Launch Promotion, we're offering all local businesses and organisations the opportunity to secure a completely 'Free for Life' listing on The Harpenden Guide .

Our goal is to become the number one resource for Harpenden residents - the 'go to' place for information on anything from local businesses to finding out what's on at the weekend. And we want to promote as many businesses as possible to help support them too.

That's why we're offering all local businesses a completely 'free for life' listing in the App.

If you have a local business that you'd like to shout about then simply complete the form here and we'll ensure that your business is included when the App is launched in January 2021.

Other premium listings will also be available for a small charge for those businesses that wish to upgrade too and give their business greater visibility.

Take advantage of this offer and get your business listed today as it expires on 21st December 2020!

Capturing Images of Harpenden

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 23:28:04 GMT

A picture says a thousand words

It's been an interesting day today...

The sun was shining and we took the opportunity on our morning walk to capture some images for use in The Harpenden Guide . It's great to see just how lovely our town is and it reminded us just how lucky we feel to live here too!

We'll be using these images to design and populate the app with familiar places that we all know and love, so keep your eyes peeled when the App is launched in January as I'm sure there will be some places you recognise!

If you've got any photos you'd like to include in the App showing off our fabulous town please feel free to share them with us by emailing them to enquiries@bigbuzzsolutions.co.uk

The Countdown has begun and it's all systems go...

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 17:58:40 GMT

And we're off...

The countdown has begun and in just over 50 days our fabulous town will have it's very own brand spanking new App - The Harpenden Guide .

The App will transform how people locally find out a whole host of information about our fabulous town - whether it's looking to see what's on at the weekend to reading the latest news or checking the weather. It will literally be a 'one-stop shop' for all things Harpenden.

We're now in the 'Pre-Launch Phase' and our tech team are busy building and creating the app so that when it's launched in January it'll be a 'must-have' resource for anyone living in Harpenden.

Over the next 8 weeks we'll be gather a huge range of useful information to build into the app so that it provides you with a unique resource.

And you can get involved in that too....

If you have a local business to promote.. claim your free listing...
If you are a local community organisation, claim your free listing...
If you would like to advertise with us find out more here...
If you have an event to promote, let us know...
If you want to keep in touch with the latest updates, let us know...
Let us know and we'll let the people of Harpenden know too.

What's happening when?

September 2020 - Initial technical spec and design

October 2020 - Design and build of website

November - Launch www.harpendenguide.co.uk website
Pre-Launch to local business and organisations to promote listings accepted

December - Content research and gather
Pre-Launch - populating app with relevant local content

January 2021 - The App is launched

Keep up to date

You can keep in touch with progress by following all the latest News and updates here and also by following us on Facebook too.

The Harpenden Guide - latest news and updates from this unique Community App

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