Carpenders Park Residents Association Autumn Winter 2020

CPRA NEWS AUTUMN/WINTER 2020 CPRA NEWS is also available on line. Visit our website: www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk Printed August 2020

In this Issue INTRODUCTION ST. MERYL SCHOOL .......................................... 33 FROM THE CHAIRMAN....................................... 3 THE LITTLE LOCAL BOOK HUB ........................... 35 WATFORD & THREE RIVERS FAMILY CENTRE ..... 37 AROUND CARPENDERS PARK NOISE FROM CONTRUCTION SITES ................... 37 FROM THE AUTHORITIES RESIDENTS VOLUNTEERING................................ 5 HELPING A LOVED ONE AVOID SCAMS.............. 39 FROM OUR BUSINESSES..................................... 9 NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH............................... 41 LOCAL LOCKDOWN TREASURE ......................... 11 DEAN RUSSELL OUR NEW MP........................... 45 CARPENDERS PARK COMMUNITY HALL ............ 13 FRANCES BUTTON GOODBYE FROM THE ASSOCIATION ................. 13 COUNTY COUNCILLOR’S REPORT ...................... 46 CARPENDERS PARK HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY .. 15 ANGELA ARNOLD PARISH COUNCILLOR ............ 49 CARPENDERS PARK LADIES‘ CLUB..................... 17 MICHAEL REVAN PAVILLION BOWLS CLUB .................................. 17 DISTRICT & PARISH COUNCILLOR...................... 51 CARPENDERS PARK AND SOUTH OXHEY KIRSTY BARNES PARISH COUNCILLOR ............... 52 METHODIST CHURCH....................................... 19 LOCAL ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES................... 52 MESSY CHURCH ............................................... 19 LETTERS & ABOUT CPRA CARPENDERS PARK CHURCH ............................ 21 COPY FOR NEXT ISSUE...................................... 38 ATTENBOROUGH SURGERY .............................. 23 TREASURER’S REPORT FOR 2019 ...................... 53 LED STREET LIGHT............................................ 27 USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS ........................ 55 FAMILY & WELLBEING CPRA NEWSLETTER DISCAIMER ........................ 56 THE HEALTHY HUB........................................... 31 CPRA COMMITTEE ........................................... 56 USING PLAY AREAS & OUTDOOR GYMS SAFELY DURING COVID-19 ........................................... 31 Advertiser index ADAMS EYE CARE ..................................... 34 L COOK FLORIST ..........................................5 ALL LOCK SECURITIES................................ 20 M.C.P. ELECTRICAL APPROVED BELL CARPENTRY & JOINERY..................... 48 CONTRACTORS.......................................... 26 BUSHEY DRIVING RANGE .......................... 40 M.K. GINDER & SONS ............................... 51 CARPENDERS PARK BUILDERS (CPB)............ 4 MAC BUILDING SERVICES ............................7 CARPENDERS PARK FENCING .................... 38 MRK PLUMBING & HEATING ..................... 50 CARPENDERS PARK NURSERY ................... 36 P.A. BARHAM LTD .......................................8 CARPENDERS PARK NURSERY U-FLORIA ... 30 PEACE HOSPICE CARE........................... 42-43 DB JONES PHARMACY............................... 25 PHYSICS TUITION—TERRANCE SPINKS ....... 20 DEFINITION .............................................. 10 ROOTS HAIRDRESSERS .............................. 22 DRIVEBCMT.UK ........................................ 32 SAW GENERAL BUILDERS........................... 14 FIRST CLASS LEARNING ............................. 12 SPICERS CARPETS AND BEDS ..................... 18 GEM TREE MANAGEMENT SERVICES.... 28-29 T.J. WATSON............................................. 14 HARROW GARDENING SERVICES................. 9 TARRANTS TIMBER LIMITED ...................... 48 JOHNSON’S WINDOWS TOE-TAL FOOTCARE .................................. 22 CLEANING SERVICE................................... 24 TREVOR WARNER...................................... 16 KEN HODSON COMPUTERS....................... 26 VJG ROOFING SPECIALIST ............................3 KP ROOFING..............................................44 2 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

From the C h a i r m a n INTRODUCTION Chairman: David Coltman Email: [email protected] Phone: 07775 696087 Valerie and I moved to Carpenders Park some 23rd March because of the coronavirus 20 years ago. Many of you will remember me pandemic, have given truly invaluable support until recently as a District and Parish to residents. Councillor. We are all indebted to the staff at the Co-op, Raj No one could have been more surprised than me and his able staff at the Chemist, the Postmen, when at the last Book Sale on 29th February Ron the Refuse collectors, Attenborough Surgery and Bobbie Wilson asked me to join the CPRA and the never-ending band of deliverers from and take up the position of Chair, which I the online shops. St Meryl School has been readily accepted. Oh! those happy times when open for the children of frontline staff of the we had a Book Sale, a Welcome Cup Café and a NHS and the emergency services, without fully operational Community Hall; rest assured whom we would not have survived. we will endeavour to get them back when things return to some form of normality. In the meantime, the CPRA Committee look In the meantime, I must thank our willing forward to meeting you all again as and when frontlines who, since the national lockdown on we return to some sort of normal life, I sincerely hope. David Vaughn Gatrell Mobile: 07985 359543 Tel: 0208 386 0426 3 Oulton Way, WD19 5EJ. Carpenders Park Specialists in: • Tiles & Slates Replaced • Gutter Cleaned, Repaired & Renewed • Re-cement Work of Chimneys, Stacks, Hips & Ridges • Flat Roofs Renewed & Repaired REF: 1M024262 CPRA NEWS 3

All general building work undertaken • Extensions • Patios • Driveways • Block Paving • Drainage and all ground work • Garden Landscaping • Fencing • Roofing Call for a free estimate DAN / SHANE 07738 021 857 (Both owners are Carpenders Park residents) 4 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Residents AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Volunteering My name is Sian Cozens and I have lived in Carpenders Park for fourteen years. In March I found myself unable to work because of the covid-19 pandemic. I am a registered childminder and normally have up to five children in my home during the day. I was worried about my elderly neighbours who could not get out because of isolating, so I posted notes through their doors offering my help and contact details. Also, I read on Facebook about a group set up local area. As I was off work, I was looking by Colin Ingham called South Oxhey and for something to keep me occupied, so I Carpenders Park Covid-19 Outreach group. started to help Colin, I helped by delivering He was asking for volunteers to deliver food parcels, prescriptions and collecting leaflets to the vulnerable and elderly. So, I food donations. started by posting them in my road and in the CPRA NEWS 5

I was struck by the kindness and generosity of The trouble was my house was being some people in South Oxhey and Carpenders overtaken with donations of food and Park, who messaged me daily offering food toiletries, so I had to find a premise to store it donations. I was beginning to get terribly all. That is where Luckett’s of Watford came busy and delivering sometimes ten food to the rescue with temporary premises. I parcels every day. I needed some help so put knew they had recently started a Charitable a post on Facebook asking for volunteers, to trust. They also donated a substantial amount my sheer delight offers started to come in, so of money, so I was able to get supplies while in the end there were seven ladies helping, Colin Ingham organised a grant from Three Lulu, Louise, Sharon, Julie, Niki, Paula, and Rivers Council from the localities budget and Sarah, they were amazing angels and now I donations from residents. We were incredibly could concentrate on making up food parcels, grateful for Luckett’s generosity and help. finding donations of food and money for food and going shopping for supplies. After a short time, I found a more permanent food hub from William Waite who kindly offered the Scout hut in South Oxhey, which we still use to date. We have been helping at Ascend and delivering to their lunch club, as well as Woodhall School parents. It has been such a busy time but now things are returning back to normality we have slowed down a bit. I am back at work but Colin and the ladies that are left volunteering are still working Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. They are mainly 6 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

AROUND CARPENDERS PARK helping Woodhall School’s low-income families and a few vulnerable residents. Over the last fourteen weeks we have delivered over 400 parcels as well as prescriptions. Some of the volunteers have made friends with elderly residents. On VE Day one volunteer, Lulu took a cream tea to an elderly lady in South Oxhey and social distanced in her front garden to celebrate VE Day. Lulu still visits her weekly and has made a lovely friend. It has been an extremely rewarding experience supporting my local community and especially my elderly neighbours. I have gained many friends over this period and enjoyed meeting many people in my local community that I would not normally have met. Sian Cozens CPRA NEWS 7

Plumbing, Heating & Gas Engineering • Boiler Maintenance & Installation • Boiler Servicing • System Upgrades • Breakdown Repairs • Chemical Power Flushing Email: [email protected] www.pabarham.com Call: 07831 363182 8 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

From our AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Businesses emergency services in line with NHS England Focus Eyecare is a local independent Optician advice. From mending children’s glasses to who opened their doors last year in August delivering replacements and adjustments to 2019 by the new parade at Carpenders Park those vulnerable, we catered for emergencies Station by two local residents, Diran Halai with full PPE. On top of that there are and Jamil Pirani. accounts, paying bills (they don’t stop!) to developing our website and social media “We expected our first year to be challenging pages. This was our new ‘normal’ for a as we geared up into action to provide our while.” services to the local community however we never imagined closing due to a worldwide Until more recently, the health crisis. government decided with NHS England that opticians could On 23rd March, we closed our open their doors again and start independent practice and routine services from the 17th June following cancelled all further routine eye strict operating procedures. Optometrist and tests as advised by the General Optical owner Diran Halai completed a course with Council. That same evening the country went the Association of Optometrists on infection into lockdown. control and prevention to ensure safe practice when re-opening. Initially we couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with the severity and risks we “We are spreading appointments apart giving are all facing with the spread of the virus. We us time to clean and prepare between patient faced the possibility of being closed for visits to ensure a safe and friendly experience months but we couldn't have been more for you and your family. We are delighted to wrong! be open again and grateful to all those supporting small local businesses.” On a daily basis there was always something to do or someone to help. As listed key Diran Halai workers we began to offer essential and Harrow Gardening Services Complete Garden Care, Rubbish Cleared, Pressure Cleaning, Gutters Cleared 18 Dorchester Avenue, North Harrow HA2 7AY Tel: 020 8427 2857 Mobile: 07973 250 926 www.harrowgardeningservices.co.uk CPRA NEWS 9

DEFINITION UNISEX HAIR, TANNING 020 8428 8151 All aspect of hairdressing Specialists in colour Latest in fashion cuts Keratin smoothing treatments from £150 Retired charges Tuesday & Wednesdays Reduced children’s cutting prices Stand up sunbed Clean COVID safe environment Staff barbicide trained wearing PPE and using screen dividers Gift vouchers available Appointments advised but not always necessary Follow us on Facebook for regular promotions @Definition Hair Salon 18 The Parade Delta Gain, Watford, WD19 5BL 10 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Local Lockdown AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Treasure remains of an iron gate that may have been Many of you have not had the opportunity to part of the pig farm that was historically travel further than the local area in recent located in the area. If you continue along this months due to the lockdown measures in path you will exit onto Watford Heath. place by the Government. The second path takes you parallel with As a result, I have identified a number of Prestwick Road and leads to Green Lane. local walks and paths that lead to exciting This incorporates steps leading down to the locations that you may not have been aware stream and enchanting woodland. of previously. Bushey Rose Gardens Here are a few that I have found within fairly easy walking distance of Carpenders Park. This hidden gem is accessible by car as it is Woodland Walk approximately 2 miles from Carpenders Park This is accessible between No 1 and No 3 with an entrance on The Mead, opposite Delta Gain Car Park and London Road opposite leads to the Cemetery and onto Oxhey Lane. Bushey Golf and The footpath takes you through woodland Country Club. It is leading to a lake with a selection of wildfowl possible to walk and is around half a mile in distance. through the gardens and enjoy many Footpath No 17 colourful rose bushes. This is accessible from the top of Delta Gain There is seating within which leads to the Cow Arch. Here you will a lawn area and benches to enjoy the find two footpaths that explore both sides of tranquillity of the garden. It was originally the railway line. designed by Thomas Mawson for artist Hubertvon Herkomer and is now owned by The first path is a very Hertsmere Borough Council and restored by Heritage Lottery funding. narrow path that runs Haydon Hill House alongside the This is located on Merry Hill Road Hartsbourne stream accessible as a walk through a gate on Oxhey Lane opposite By The Wood. where you may The house was purchased by the Attenbor- glimpse egrets on the ough family in 1870 and they remained there during the 1920s and 30s when David and overhanging tree Richard were children. During the war the house was commandeered by the RAF branches. It is also together with nearby Bentley Priory and was used as a mapping centre during the Battle of possible to locate the CPRA NEWS 11

Britain. Post-war the house was converted into a retirement home by Harrow Council. In the late 1980s it was sold and converted into a series of spacious luxury apartments. The area is named Attenborough Fields in honour of its former neighbours. Valerie Coltman 07887 550758 First Class Learning Call us now on 07931 230155 12 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Carpenders Park AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Community Hall Just to let you know I am writing this in May the railway to put the rubbish in there as that so when you read this, things should have is what they are for, not our land. We changed, for the better I hope. constantly have to pick up a carrier bag of rubbish a fortnight and place it in the correct With the Hall closed we have not had such a bin in Gibbs Couch. good year obviously but we had signed a contract for Solar Panels to be installed and so Since we don’t know when we can start have gone ahead with the installation this reletting the Hall again, we could be losing May. money for a long time yet. The Hall has not had any income for all of I have informed the Committee that I want to lock down time but we shut off the electricity stand down from all duties in the Hall as I and so had no expenses from that. However have been doing it for 10 years and I will let the Insurance became due and we had to pay someone else have a go. So if anyone would our accountant's fee and install new electric like to join and help out, we would be glad to sockets to bring the Hall up to a good have you on board. standard, this work was already in the Three Rivers District Council has written to pipeline and had to be paid. us informing us that the Community Hall has We are still waiting to hear when we can start been accepted as a Community Asset. This opening again as I’m sure a lot of our regular will last for the next five years, quite what users are too. this means to the Hall we have no clear understanding. Perhaps someone reading this The grass still grows so that has to be cut and article will be able to clarify this accolade. I would like to ask all those people who use our grass as a dumping ground for their We on the Committee have always considered rubbish to kindly use the bins on both sides of the Hall to be an asset for the community. Ron Wilson Goodbye From the Association All the Committee were very unhappy to lose the Association with Maurice Bunce as our Chair. Maurice and great expertise of Hilary moved away into a retirement village editing our Newsletter and to be near their family. He was not in the for a number of Chair for long but he proved to be a very years. His knowledge competent and dedicated Chair taking the of the printing and responsibility extremely seriously. Maurice publishing trade you are greatly missed. proved invaluable to Another very special person, many of us on the publishing of our the Estate knew before he and his wife moved magazine and he and Ann left a big void to Dorset, was John Fowler. He was our within our community. previous News Editor. Sadly he passed away Bobbie recently. He was a very important member of CPRA NEWS 13

SaW General Builders Steve and Warren Kelly, Family run business Extensions • Refurbishments • Patios • Fencing • Carpentry • Roofing • Brickwork • Painting • PVC Facia • Driveways • Decking • Loft Rooms Call: Warren 07976 445056 Steve 07956 386827 References available from Carpenders Park Residents. View our work on our web site. www.SaWgeneralbuilders.com EXTERNAL / INTERNAL DECORATIONS LOCAL SERVICE Web: decoratorinwatford.com Email: [email protected] Telephone: Office: 020 8428 6550 Mobile: 07973 256 978 14 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Carpenders Park AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Horticultural Society We have decided that we cannot hold our Another plant that has annual show this year with the uncertainty of given me great joy this Covid-19 and the proximity of the exhibitors year is Rose Campion and our visitors in the Community Hall. This (Silene coronaria). is a real shame but we would still like to A colleague gave me a share what you have grown and made over plant a few years ago the year with the rest of Carpenders Park. We and it got crowded out are asking people who have exhibited in the by other plants and past and anyone on the estate to email died. I collected some photographs and we will share these on our of the seed heads and planted the seeds. Most Facebook and other media. These will seemed to grow and when big enough I hopefully be based on previous areas of the planted them around the garden. As it is a competition, but we would also love to see biennial or short-lived perennial I had to wait pictures of your garden. Also don't forget to a year but my work has paid off. I know this include paintings, drawing and baking. It is a relatively easy plant to grow and it can be would be a shame for others not to see how seen in lots of gardens around the area, but I you have used any extra time you may have felt a real sense of achievement. had during the lockdown period. A plant that Now I am enjoying doesn't seem very the flowering popular but I feel perennials, shrubs should be used for and annuals. I grow summer bedding a lot of my annuals is Coleus. These from seed and this colourful leafed year while looking at plants are easy to grow and brighten up any seeds my daughter flower bed or planter. Again I grow these picked up a 20p from seed and so from a packet of seed you packet of seed from can get 100 plants. I generally only sow half Wilko called Fairy Bouquet the packet and carefully seal up the packet for (Linaria maroccana) or toadflax. It claimed it next year's display. was easy to grow and they were right! I love Some annuals are so good they self-seed. I the spikes of small snapdragon-like flowers, have been lucky enough to have Nasturtium and the height of 20-30cm high is ideal for growing in my raised bed for years and the the raised bed and planters I have put it into. hardest part is pulling out the extra ones I The plants had a range of both bold and don't want! pastel colours and the packet claimed it I have also enjoyed working at the allotment would flower throughout summer which at and I am convinced that being outdoors and time of writing is true although I have started growing flowers and crops is good for the deadheading some of the plants to encourage mind and body and helped me through these more flowers to form. difficult times. Robert Tunwell CPRA NEWS 15

Below are a selection of other flowers in my garden. Can you identify what they are? Answers: Alyssum, Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), Forget-me-not (Myosotis), Heather (Calluna), Pieris, Hyacinth, Daffodil (Narcissus), Strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum), Verbena, Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus), Welsh Poppy (Meconopsis cambrica),Primrose, Honesty (Lunaria annua),Tulip, Wallflower PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Trevor Warner A HANDYMAN to know [email protected] 079 5621 8747 / 020 8386 1660 16 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Carpenders Park AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Ladies’ Club We do hope all our members have kept well Profitable’ and is about the life and career of and safe during these very difficult months for Agatha Christie. everyone. As our very interesting programme for 2020 had to be curtailed in March, I can For the year-end meeting in December, we only give an outline of the forthcoming events will once again be entertained by ‘Just A that we have planned and which we hope will Cappella’, led by Marian Taylor, which is an take place, if lockdown eases further. award winning vocal group based in Hemel Hempstead, singing songs from the 1930s to In September the Author Brian Carline will be the present time. our speaker. His talk is based on his book “Tripe ‘N’ Trotters”, tales of a post-war We look forward to welcoming all our Northern childhood. members back as soon as we are permitted to open. If you are new to the area or would like The Toastmaster, Steve Litson, will be more information about joining, please give making a return visit to our club in October me a call. Our meetings are held in the and talking about the ‘Trials and Tribulations Community Hall on the first Monday evening of a Head Teacher’. of the month, except on Bank holidays. Our speaker for November is Geoff Bowden, Angela Tongue – Admin Secretary whose talk is entitled ‘Murder Most 020 8428 4552 Pavilion Bowls Club Green Lane, WD19 4LU Passed the Tennis Courts Hello to all, and let you know that Pavilion forget where we are, by the tennis courts Bowls is looking forward to 2021 being a South Oxhey playing fields. We hope to see fresh new season for us all. The past year new interest from our community. \"lest we forget\" will be forever on our minds, In the meantime \"stay safe and alert\" all our functions and games were cancelled Contact: Ann Cox on either 02084289460 or and only limited rolls ups allowed by the ruling of social distancing in place until 07852 369935 [email protected] \"normal service can be resumed\" Do not CPRA NEWS 17

18 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Carpenders Park & AROUND CARPENDERS PARK South Oxhey Methodist Church, (CPSO) 122 Prestwick Road, South Oxhey, WD19 6LA FILM CLUBS: Pre-pandemic films included: Minister: Rev. Richard Lowson: 01923 223906. From Time to Time, The Help, and Downton Website: cpsomc.org.uk Abbey. Opera Film Club has shown The (Bus: W19 and No.8 stops in Prestwick Road, Barber of Seville and The Mikado. Films (all almost outside the Church). are PG to 15) are followed by tea, coffee and Church contact: Jenny (0208 428 6375) cakes. ALL AREAS OF THE CHURCH ARE FULLY THURSDAY Club: 3rd Thursday of each ACCESSIBLE FOR THE DISABLED. month: film starts at 1.15pm., CORONAVIRUS: PLEASE CONTACT JENNY TO ENQUIRE IF THE SUNDAY SATURDAY Club: 3rd Saturday of each SERVICE & ACTIVITIES WILL BE month: film starts at 7.15pm. RUNNING SUNDAY MORNING SERVICE 09.30 (3rd OPERA Film Club: Saturday 3 times a year: Sunday NO SERVICE) film starts at 7pm. All activities are free of charge (donations Occasional Children’s film’s during school welcome) and open to all. holidays. BREADMAKING. Bakers meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month. Coffee at 09.30 is CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL (4th – 6th followed by bread making until 12 noon. Pre- December) We hope to hold this popular event virus we took home Loaves (white, brown or IF the virus situation allows. Please put the half & half – your choice), Mini Panettone and dates in your diary and check our Notice Gingerbread Christmas Trees. Board and Website “CPSOMC.org.uk” nearer the time POP-UP CAFÉ opens on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 10.30am – 12 (Our halls are available for regular hire, and noon. We’re a small and friendly group; It’s a for ‘one-off’ bookings e.g. a business meeting good place to chat and enjoy tea and coffee and or children’s party. Groups meeting on our some home-made cakes. Come and join us! premises include: Kliks Dancing, Karate, First Class Learning, Tai Chi, Weightwatchers, Girlguiding, Messy Church.) Messy Church run by members of the churches in Carpenders Park and South Oxhey. SUBJECT TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC. home, pop the children into a bath or just (games, craft, children’s worship, meal) is tuck them into bed, without the hassle of preparing a meal. run by members of churches in Carpenders Park and South Oxhey. Bliss! As is usual with churches, We meet at 3.45pm at the Methodist there is no charge, but donations are Church, Prestwick Road (WD19 welcomed to help towards our costs. 6LA) on the 3rd Sunday of the Call Jenny: 0208 428 6375 to check month (except August). when we will be open again. At 5.30pm (having enjoyed a meal together), it’s time to wend our way CPRA NEWS 19

ALL LOCKS SECURITIES We offer a complete service from non-destructively gaining access to covering locks on windows, doors, garages, safes and outbuildings. We open, supply, fit, replace and repair any types of locks ensuring the security of your property or premises, 24 hours a day 7 days a week, providing you with all round peace of mind. • 24 hour Rapid Response • Gaining Access • Lock Repairs • Burglary Repairs • Lock Fitting • Glazing • Insurance Work • Double Sealed Units For FREE quote please call: Office 020 8386 1036 Mobile 07973 638006 Special Rates for Carpenders Park Residents PHYSICS TUITION to GCSE & A-Level Terence Spinks PhD (Carpenders Park) £35 per hour (one-to-one sessions) DBS Certified Tel 07443 543 568 Email: [email protected] 20 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Carpenders Park AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Church Bible might mean, in relation to their life What’s been your Coronavirus story? story – no one person has a monopoly on Turning all our expectations on their head, truth. we’ve found ourselves in different stories. For some, your story might be that this time At Carpenders Park Church, we knew that has been a blessing, a chance for quiet and even if we couldn’t meet together during calm and reflection. For others, you may lockdown, it was still so important for us to have been through unimaginable pain. We’ve be thinking about how the Bible’s story seen in our community such stories of caring, might have something to help us make sense but also ones of sadness, and perhaps, at of what we’re going through. So, we’ve been times, selfishness. Charles Dickens’ famous recording sermons/talks and sending them quote seems apt: out to our congregation. People have listened over breakfast, or out walking on Merry Hill ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of and letting themselves think about how those times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the words of the Bible, written so many years age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, ago, still have something so pertinent to say it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the to us. season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of Reading all these stories we see some despair.’ common threads: that there is a God who does love and engage with the world, and We all live in multiple stories, and make who cries out in pain at the wrong done to sense of our lives through these stories. But the vulnerable. Those people that often those themes of wisdom alongside society overlooks, God sees and values all foolishness, light alongside darkness and they do. Doesn’t that seem so relevant to our hope alongside despair all find their echoes society? in the stories of the Bible. Some times, the Church has let people down and made it We don’t yet know when we’ll be able to get seem that the Bible is simply a book of rules, to meet together as we normally do (at St something to make people feel bad about Meryl School, the Mead, Sundays at 11am), themselves. But the Bible actually contains but we’d love to have you join us one multitudes of stories, about rich and poor, morning to explore with us, making sense of women and men, and people of all races. The the story of our lives, and the Bible’s story. stories are not simply of the powerful and Until then, if you would like us to send you grand, but the lowly – people who, in the our talks by email, do let our secretary/elder world’s eyes, are deemed insignificant. The Bryan Jukes know by emailing Bible does not shy away from the reality of [email protected] and we’ll add you pain and suffering, nor allow us to kid to the list. ourselves that there is no injustice in the world. If we read it with open minds, we may find it helps us to reflect on our own life stories, and what we may wish to change, having been challenged by it. It helps too, to hear other people’s perspectives on what the CPRA NEWS 21

• His & Hers, Cut & Blow Dry • Hi-lights, Low-Lights • Semi-Permanent Colouring, Tints, Perm • Styling for weddings & Special Occasions CHILDREN WELCOME! Call us 020 8428 6862 4 The Parade, Carpenders Avenue, Carpenders Park, Watford WD19 5BL Graham Spendlove MCFHP, MAHFP For all the family, for the treatment of Corns, Callus, Ingrown or Thickened Nails, Nail Trimming and other complaints. For an appointment that will last between 40 minutes and 1 hour, at a cost of £30 in your own home at a time to suit you, book now on 07799 033974 22 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

AROUND CARPENDERS PARK NEW PATIENTS ARE WELCOME TO REGISTER Surgery Website www.attenboroughsurgery.co.uk Telephone lines open Monday to Friday at 08.00 (Wednesday 07.00) Local Hospitals Watford General Hospital 01923 244366 Mount Vernon Hospital 0l923 826 I 11 St Albans City Hospital 01727 866122 Hemel Hempstead 01442 213141 Community Nursing District Nurses 01923 686815 Health Visitors 01932 235322 Monday Bushey Medical Carpenders Holywell Tudor Tuesday Centre Reception Park Surgery Surgery Surgery Wednesday 020 8428 0355 01923 243130 01923 223724 Thursday 01923 231 633 08.00 - 12.30 08.00 - 18.30 08.00 - 18.30 Friday 08.00 - 18.30 14.30 - 18.00 08.00 - 18.30 08.00 - 18.30 Most Saturdays 08.00 - 12.30 08.00 - 18.30 08.00 - 18.30 each month 08.00 - 18.30 14.30 - 18.00 08.00 - 18.30 08.00 - 18.30 Most Sundays 08.00 - 12.30 08.00 - 18.30 08.00 - 18.30 Check dates 07.00 - 18.30 14.30 - 18.00 08.00 - 12.30 CLOSED CLOSED 08.00 - 18.30 14.30 - 18.00 08.00 - 12.30 CLOSED CLOSED 08.00 - 18.30 14.30 - 18.00 09.00 - 13.00 15.00 - 19.00 CLOSED Pre-booked 09.00 - 13.00 CLOSED Pre-booked The GP Partners at Attenborough Surgery This gives our patients access 24 hours a would like to thank all our patients for their day/7 days a week to an Online Consultation patience and support during the COVID-19 Form that can be sent into the GP at any Pandemic. It has been a difficult time for all time and will be assessed by the end of the Staff working in the NHS but the response next working day. The Doctor will contact from our patients to new ways of working you via a phone call, text or video including telephone and video consulting has consultation and where necessary a face to been truly inspiring. As you are aware we face appointment can be provided if have been open to all patients throughout the required. We have already introduced this as crisis and would continue to encourage our a pilot service which has been very patients to contact us should they have any successful and we would now encourage all medical issue that needs to be discussed. our patients who have access to the internet As a result of the success of our telephone to contact us in this way. and video consulting we have been able to CHANGES TO OUR CLINICAL TEAM introduce our ONLINE CONSULTATION We have recently been able to recruit in- OPTION which can be accessed via our house Physiotherapists, Mental Health Website at www.attenboroughsurgery.co.uk CPRA NEWS 23

Workers and House Dieticians who will Care Alliance. Work alongside our clinical team of Doctors, Contact our Reception Team for details of Nurses, Pharmacists, Health Care Assistants, any of the above services you may require. Health Coaches, Social Prescriber and Travel advice and immunisation service Receptionists. The new members of the If you have an overseas trip booked please Team will be available across all our sites. ask our Reception Team for an appointment We also work closely with all other members with our Travel Nurse for advice and of the local Community Health Team. immunisations as appropriate, ideally at least HEALTH CARE SERVICES AVAILABLE six weeks in advance of your trip. TO ALL OUR PATIENTS Patient Group Contraception services including coil and The Surgery would like to recruit new implant, Anticoagulation (Warfarin) members to our Patient Group. Please Monitoring, Minor Surgery, Joint Injections, contact Ceara Keane at the Surgery if you Physiotherapy, Counselling, Midwifery and are interested in becoming a member. Antenatal care, Carers Health Checks, Extended Hours appointments (Saturdays NEW: FOLLOW ATTENBOROUGH and Sundays), Video appointments and SURGERY ON FACEBOOK access to evening and weekend appointments as part of our joint working with Watford CALL US 07513 659442 Specialists in: • DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL • GUTTER CLEANING AND REPAIRED • CONSERVATORY ROOF CLEAN • PATHIO CLEANS 24 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

AROUND CARPENDERS PARK CPRA NEWS 25

Looking For An Electrician? M.C.P. Electrical Approved Contractors 24 hour Emergencies - Rewires - Fault Finding Immersion Heaters - Showers - Cookers - Sockets Lights - Fuse Boards - Telephone Points FREE Visual Inspections and Quotes Any Size Job Welcomed Special Rates for Senior Citizens Garden Electrics - Storage Heaters Fax/Tel: Marc on 020 8421 5756 Mobile: 07958 402371 Ken Hodson Computers Computer Hardware and Software Repairs PCs and iMacs Upgrades and Advice for Home and Business No fix, no fee all repairs - you have nothing to lose. Low hourly rate. Most repairs carried out in your home If not, the computer will be picked up and delivered back to you [email protected] Telephone: 01582 794723 Mobile: 07974 156743 26 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

LED AROUND CARPENDERS PARK Street Light lamps. I was not so lucky on this one, it was I am sure anyone who has been outside at a flat answer of \"no new lamposts will be night will have noticed that the yellow glow installed\". One point I couldn't understand of the old sodium streetlights is no more. was why some roads have much brighter Carpenders Park now has the new LED lamps than others, for example St ultramodern LED replacement. This has Georges Drive has higher powered ones been done to save energy, cause less light than By The Wood - a bus route. The simply pollution as well as being more reliable. But answer was, \"lamps were replaced on a like as someone who walks most evenings the story isn't that simple. When they for like basis\" and again they were were first introduced I noticed the not going to upgrade lamps. amount of light provided by the If you have got this far in the article lights was very different around the you have done well. The next part is estate, with some areas almost actually interesting, the dimming completely in darkness. Especially policy! Lights come on at dusk and poorly lit areas were Alva Way will be on full power until 9.00pm. and By The Wood. In many areas They are then dimmed by 50% until the footpath path was in darkness 11pm and then by a further 30% to and it was difficult to determine 1.00am when they are turned off the colour of cars. completely. This final dimming I expressed my concerns at the according to HCC is 2 Lux and this Local Area Forum and sent letters compares to a Full Moon on a clear to the HCC. Thankfully Frances day of about 1 Lux. These details Button took up the case and she can be found in the Minutes of a joined me with a Council Officer to County Council Cabinet Meeting view the area at night. So the first held on the 22nd October 2018. I thing I found out was that the could not find this information on footpath is classed as part of the highway. the internet and so had to ask for it directly The lamps fitted in Carpenders Park had a from HCC. When I questioned this policy baffle to stop light deflecting backwards with the engineer he said people don't and limiting the light output. If you look at generally walk around after 9.00pm and the lampposts in our area you will notice most people can't tell that the lamps have that they are all placed at the front, close to been dimmed! the road. This explained why the paths were The final problem is lots of lamps are in darkness. The engineer agreed to remove shielded by trees which block out the light. the baffles if this was requested by our They will not be cut back unless it is County Councillor and this work has now all reported to HCC. This can be done online been completed. The Officer agreed that https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/home.aspx areas of the estate have large gaps between or by phoning 0300 123 4047. lampposts with some areas clearly missing Robert Tunwell CPRA NEWS 27

28 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

CPRA NEWS 29

30 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

AROUND CARPENDERS PARK CPRA NEWS 31

32 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

St. Meryl FAMILY & WELLBEING School Seven days before schools were asked to The next chapter was “the return to school” on “close”, I received a phone call from our Chair June 1st. We created groups of no more than of Governors. She was pleased to offer me the 15, called bubbles. Classrooms needed to be role of Head Teacher at St Meryl School. rearranged to follow the then 2-metre rule. Looking back, those seven days were a blur, as Soft furnishings and soft toys were removed. we prepared for the first “new normal”. Two staff members were allocated to each When Lockdown began, I was faced with our bubble, as we could not open the kitchen or first challenge. How can we connect to our welcome back our mid-day supervisors. In- children when they are at home? On a whim, I stead, teachers in each bubble had to negotiate made an online assembly. In it, I naively breaks with their co-adult. Essentially, they promised that I would be making one every were with their bubble groups for the whole day until things got back to normal. It became day. part of my daily routine, and At this time of writing, we going by the feedback I got, it have finished 5 weeks teaching quickly became part our chil- in this way. We will be invit- dren’s routine. When I needed ing the rest of the school for help, teachers all banded to- the final week, as part of tran- gether to be a part of them as sition. On the final day, we are well. inviting only Year 6 in. Whenever I read about Amidst all this change, we still “schools reopening”, I have a want to say goodbye properly wry smile. The truth is, we to our leavers – a fantastic have never been closed. From group of children. March 23rd, we have been open to key workers Throughout this, people have reminded me of and vulnerable children, even through school my “baptism of fire”. Yet, I feel strangely holidays. Teachers, on a rota basis, came in to proud. Proud of being part of an overwhelm- look after these pupils. Between March and ingly encouraging Carpenders Park communi- June, every class had daily online work up- ty, who have constantly sent messages of sup- loaded to our website. New class email ad- port. Proud of the best staff in the world, who dresses were created, so that teachers could have not rested – working above and beyond give feedback to the work handed in. The lap- both at home and at school. But most of all, top became the new classroom for teachers. proud of our children. I am astonished at the They worked tirelessly to answer every ques- resilience, adaptation and positivity of the St tion, mark every piece of work. For those chil- Meryl pupils. If they can cope with the last dren without access to the internet, work was few months, I feel very confident about our printed off and offered for collection at a “safe future. Our whole community should be proud zone”. Some pupils without laptops were even of them. given old school ones to borrow. Craig Davies CPRA NEWS 33

Your local Opticians in South Oxhey for over 30 years Due to redevelopment, we are closing mid March 2020 and transferring all our patients’ personal records to our branch in Harrow weald. 411 High Road, Harrow Weald, HA3 6EL Tel 020 8427 3201 Opposite Waitrose & Iceland Supermarkets with free parking up to 2 hours As our valued Patients, on your next visit to us at Harrow Weald, we will offer you special discounts for your valued loyalty for so many years. We will of course continue to offer and provide the same, if not better, optical services to all the existing and new Patients. All Regular staff members at South Oxhey will be at the Harrow Weald branch to welcome you. Extra £10 off Voucher On purchase of a complete pair of Spectacles On production of this voucher. Terms & conditions Apply 34 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

The Little Local FAMILY & WELLBEING Book HUB “Like an open-air library. Except you don’t have weather). These posts are shared on local groups, to be a member. And you can keep the books if and members of the public are able to send mes- you want to.” sages and ask questions of the team. The original idea was simple. Back at the begin- The response from local communities has been ning of May, Monique Hershkorn decided to put overwhelmingly positive, with people saying that a box of her unwanted books on the front lawn of it has saved their sanity during lockdown, many her home in Leavesden Road, Stanmore, so that hubs having return visitors and people requesting other residents in her street could enjoy them. particular titles or authors. Unsurprisingly, while There were just 7 books in total, as she reads schools have been closed or with reduced intake, most of her books on her Kindle. She children’s books are especially popu- posted on a local Facebook group, lar, with all ages from babies through inviting locals to stroll by and grab a to teens and young adults being ca- free read. She suggested they could tered for. leave a book they had finished with in exchange, a kind of unofficial “The local communities have been book swap. amazing and so generous in joining and supporting this initiative. It’s Sarah Burns, a friend from Edgware, brought connections with people mentioned that she would like to do living close who we never knew the same thing, and freelance graphic before,” says Monique. Sarah adds, designer Monique quickly whipped “the hubs have been more successful up a logo so they could link up under than we ever dreamed, and we feel the same brand. Friends of theirs privileged to have helped people, quickly followed suit, and The Little especially children, who have been Local Book Hub was born. When off school for months, to access Borehamwood proof-reader Tonie books at this difficult time.” Tonie is Jascourt joined the team, they were particularly proud of the way visitors able to take their social media posts leave reviews on the Hub page, say- to a new level, with professional ing how important it has been for looking, streamlined posts across them during lockdown. several Facebook groups. As people from other areas expressed an interest in access to books The Hub team is starting to look to the future, during lockdown, the idea spread until there were trying to decide what the Hubs will look like Hubs not only across NW London and Hertford- when the world evolves towards a “new normal”, shire, but also as far afield as Ipswich, Glouces- when everyone goes back to their lives, jobs and tershire and Cornwall. routines, when schools and libraries reopen. But for now, with nearly 30 Hubs around the country, Once half a dozen hubs had been set up, they and more enquiries every day, they invite anyone created a Facebook page to link them all, and this interested in starting a Hub, or any local business page has over 1,300 followers, and rising. They wanting to sponsor a hub with a donation of new also have a presence on Instagram, Twitter, a books, or weatherproof storage boxes, in ex- website and even a YouTube channel in which change for a shout out on social media, to email people are invited to read picture book for ‘Story them [email protected]. Time From the Hub’. Hub team members post on the Facebook page www.littlelocalbookhub.uk daily, with engaging photographs of their current facebook.com/littlebookhub stock and their opening hours (some hubs are Twitter.com/littlebookhub weatherproof, others are only open in good Instagram.com/littlebookhub CPRA NEWS 35

36 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Watford & Three Rivers FAMILY & WELLBEING Family Centre Service—Facebook page Our NEW LIVE Virtual Timetable! Don't forget we are also running interactive zoom sessions! Where you can enjoy your Some of our Early Start Workers will be go- favourite sessions online! To find out more, ing LIVE from their homes, each week to drop us a Facebook message! bring you all of your favourite sessions. From singing and dancing to reading stories, why not join in with your little ones for some ** Please note that to watch a Facebook Live fun! you simply need to go onto our page at the Don't forget, you can send in your song re- scheduled time and the Live session will ap- quests! pear as a post at the top of the newsfeed! Noise from Construction Sites tion and demolition sites to be limited to: • Monday to Friday – 08:00 to 18:00-hrs Construction noise is part of development and • Saturday - 09:00 to 13:00-hrs therefore a restriction on working hours is pre- • No works on Sundays or Public Holidays scribed as part of their planning permission, however The Control of Pollution Act 1974 If you are intending to do large scale DIY gives powers to the Council to restrict working please ensure you inform all your neighbours hours and allow conditions to be stipulated on who may be affected by noise. Give them ad- the types of machinery/ plant that are used on vance warning of the works and inform them construction sites. of the duration and type of works that you in- The Council expect noisy work on construc- tend to carry out. CPRA NEWS 37

Copy for the next issue If you like to write an article for the next edition, please let us know. We are always happy to hear from the residents. Be aware deadline for next submission is: Saturday 2nd January 2021 Early submission is always very welcome. Illustrations, logos and photographs are always very welcome. Please note submissions should be sent to [email protected] 38 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Helping a loved one FAMILY & WELLBEING Avoid scams When it comes to In more normal times I do a lot to help my your mother’s elderly mum, like picking up shopping, finances, if you sorting out her finances, making important supply an calls and organising her post. But organisation with a unfortunately with lockdown in place I’m letter of authority not able to see her as frequently, and from the account holder, this may allow you though I’ve still been able to drop off her speak to them on her behalf. This may not shopping, I’m no longer able to help her always be accepted, so if you find yourself with the other things. I’m particularly needing to take over your mother’s finances worried about how much I’ve read about in the future, it’s worth looking into a long scammers at the moment, and I wondered term solution like a Power of Attorney. whether there’s anything I can do from a distance to help protect my mum? It’s also vital that you chat to your mother to There are a few steps you can take from a help her spot the marks of a scam herself. At distance to keep your mother safe and lessen Citizens Advice we always advise the your need to worry. following: With your mother’s permission you can register her landline with the Telephone Be suspicious if you’re contacted out of Preference Service. It’s free to register and the blue, even if it’s from a name you doing so will reduce the amount of unwanted recognise sales and marketing calls you receive. This If it sounds too good to be true it won’t block all unwanted calls (it won’t work probably isn’t on calls from abroad or companies she’s Never give out your bank details unless given her number to already, for example), so you are certain you can trust the person your mother will need to continue to remain contacting you vigilant, but it’ll certainly lessen the number Don’t be rushed – you never need to of them. make a decision straight away and if you You can encourage your mother to talk to her feel pressured say “no”, hang up the phone provider to see what privacy services phone, or close the door. and call-blocking services are available. These services aren’t always free but are Lastly, if your mother is receiving care from useful in ensuring any call coming through is her local authority and you think she might from a trusted or known source. be being scammed, it’s worth reporting your In terms of unwanted post, with your concerns to their Adult Safeguarding team. mother’s permission you can contact the Mailing Preference Service to have her name For further help and advice, please contact taken off of any marketing lists. You can also your local CAB: Oxhey Drive, South Oxhey, contact Royal Mail and opt out of receiving WD19 7SD any leaflets or unaddressed promotional We are currently closed for face to face material. Attaching a ‘no junk mail’ sign to advice. Please contact us by telephone her front door may also help with this. CPRA NEWS 39

Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm on 03444 111 Our CAB needs you! If you can spare 2 half 444 (county wide service) or on 0344 245 1296 days a week and are interested in finding out (local line for Three Rivers residents only). more about training, please get in touch. Alternatively, you can contact us directly via Email: [email protected] email on our website Full training given. Free refreshments. Travel www.threeriverscab.org.uk. You can also get expenses reimbursed. Lovely company! CAB advice via email or webchat using the national service at www.citizensadvice.org.uk CPRA NEWS is a free magazine that enable It is useful guide to local businesses. local businesses to target local customers in a cost effective manner. It is truly local. The majority of the Free listing in our website: advertisers operate in or closer area. There is www.carpendersparkresidets.org.uk evidence that local services are preferred by CALL: 07773 912160 the UK population Or email: [email protected] Our rates: 1 issue 2 issues 1/2 page £ 40.00 £ 80.00 full page £ 80.00 £ 160.00 40 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Neighbourhood Watch FROM THE AUTHORITIES Lockdown, Covid-19, social distancing ~ able to complete any door knocking words we didn’t know about six months ago. campaigns in Carpenders Park as we planned, Yet, four months down the line, here we are to speak with and register new members, but slowly getting our lives back to normal, we should be able to start up those activities whatever that may look like. It has been a before too long. challenging and sometimes depressing journey, but looking back over the period and During June we ran a “Nominate a Special despite the seriousness and sadness of the Person who has been kind, thoughtful or situation, there has been so much “good” that caring” campaign across the county and has come out of it from a Neighbourhood Three Rivers submitted the most nominations. Watch point of view. I personally presented 8 certificates and 33 special Thank You postcards to residents who Firstly the way the whole community has had been nominated and a further 3 special pulled together, helping out neighbours and cards were posted to children who had been elderly residents who were isolated in their involved with fund raising for the NHS or for homes, helping with shopping, collecting a other kind deeds they had performed during morning paper or posting a letter. has been amazing. the lockdown. Many of the Secondly, the support groups recipients of the certificates which have sprung into were volunteers who had existence offering support offered to help out with the with the collection and Covid Support Groups, and delivery of medicines and that made me think a lot food boxes have been so about the value those people professional and a real life-saver to many. had gained from volunteering. Then there were the socially distanced street “Clap for the NHS and Key Workers” We have so many dedicated Watch gatherings on Thursday evenings or to coordinators in Carpenders Park who look celebrate Easter and VE Day, which gave after the database on OWL, greet new everyone some company and social contact residents when they move in, or who help out albeit for a short period of time. Some when we have events and functions at the residents got to talk properly to their Community Hall. Our Three Rivers NhW neighbours and many new friendships were Association benefits greatly from two co- struck. opted volunteers who offer their secretarial and financial skills to act as secretary and Further by-products of these strange times, treasurer respectively. One lady in my road when everyone was working from home or volunteers hours of work to make up the self-isolating or on home schooling, was the Welcome Packs that are distributed around decline in incidents of domestic burglaries the county ~ over the last few years she has and anti-social behaviour and a reduction in made up over 40,000! And I have to thank my car crime ... and the fact that you could get a husband, who comes out with me from time parking space near the station and the shops to time to put up new or replace broken NhW and you managed to chat freely with others in street signs in our area. the queue for the pharmacy, the Co-op or the post office if you happened to be there when A big thank you to them all! it was busy!! However, NhW hasn’t been Carpenders Park North Sue Thompson 0208 428 3384 [email protected] CPRA NEWS 41

42 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

FAMILY & WELLBEING CPRA NEWS 43

44 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Dean Russell FROM THE AUTHORITIES Our new MP I was only ten weeks into the role as the Mem- how important it is to tackle loneliness. It has ber of Parliament for Watford when Covid-19 become one of the most pressing challenges of started developing into the all-encompassing modern society, and with the Coronavirus issue it is today. It was important to me from lockdown, there is even more urgency to tack- the on-set that I spend time supporting our le it – but there may be hope. businesses, our Hospital and the most vulnera- I have also met with a number of businesses ble in our society. that have diversified and adapted really well to the crisis. Since the start of lockdown, I have worked with the Treasury and other gov- ernment departments to ensure our local busi- nesses could access grants worth up to £25,000 alongside business rates relief. Almost 22,000 people in Watford have had their wages paid for by the Government as part of the furlough scheme. The Self- Employment Income Support Scheme, which provides grants to the self-employed, has been worth £18.9 million in Watford alone. Most recently I launched a new initiative, 'Get Reducing homelessness should be an absolute Dean on Your Team', where I do shifts with priority, and this was made abundantly clear local businesses. My goal is to help boost our when we were all instructed to ‘Stay Home to town's local economy and build the relation- Save Lives.’ For those sleeping on the street ship between small business and Westminster. they do not have a home where they can iso- Now is the perfect time to shine a light on late. It was a pleasure to work alongside both local businesses that need our support. A few New Hope and the council to secure funding weeks ago I was delighted to take part in my in order to house dozens of rough sleepers, first ribbon cutting of 2020 to open L Cook and I am incredibly grateful to both Trave- Florist on The Parade and welcome them to lodge and One YMCA for providing a safe Carpenders Park. place for them to stay. I have met and worked with so many wonder- ful charities, organisations and individuals across the constituency since being elected. We have armies of volunteers who have prov- en they want to help their neighbours which is really encouraging. Thousands of hot meals and essential items have been delivered across the constituency by people willing to donate their time for the benefit of others. Joining these volunteers has reminded me just CPRA NEWS 45

If you own a business and would like to put joined the me to work please do get in touch using All-Party Parliamentary Groups for Mental [email protected] Health, Loneliness, Knife Crime and the Loan It has been a hectic time, some of you may Charge. have seen that I am on the Health and Social My focus remains firmly on serving my con- stituents that put their faith in me to serve as Care Select Committee. I have also joined the their MP, a job which is a privilege and an Joint Committee for Human Rights as these honour. platforms enable me to hold the Government to account and ensure Watford constituents have their voices heard at the top. I have also Best wishes, Dean Russell MP Frances Button County Councillor’s Report COVID 19 has had an impact on every said, quite justifiably, in praise of aspect of life, and on every aspect of outstanding front-line NHS staff. Hertfordshire County Council’s services too. Our Carers have also been under huge Once again the Carpenders Park community pressure and I salute them. They work in our has responded magnificently, caring for each Residential Care Homes, they make home other. visits to those who otherwise could not Safe social distancing and safer shopping manage to live at home, and for those with will be with us for a while, and we are lucky the pavements in family members or friends Delta Gain are so wide. who need help, a Carer’s age Whilst no-one likes queuing, can range from a young child there is plenty of space for looking after a poorly parent queues outside our shops, before and after the school without blocking pavements. day, to an elderly frail person Those local shops that were caring for a more frail spouse. able to stay open throughout If you have helped someone did a wonderful job. Many of less able than yourself, you are our local shops and services a Carer. have been frustrated by not During Carers Week, which being able to re-open earlier, this year was 8 – 14 June, The so please ‘shop local, shop Queen recognised the safe’ to support them all. contribution carers make. In a Our local schools too have done an excellent broadcast, Her Majesty spoke to Carers job. Parents have strongly supported across the country and thanked them all for teachers in home learning – I am lost in the massive contribution they make. admiration for teachers and parents. I also As I write this, whilst the pandemic is still want specifically to thank each and every far from over, thoughts are turning towards person with caring responsibilities. recovery. Until an effective vaccine or The County Council has overall antidote is found, there is concern to avoid a responsibility for Children’s and Adults’ second peak. Hertfordshire County Council Social Care and for Public Health, and is has prepared its Outbreak Plan, building on consistently working towards an Integrated existing ways of keeping safe and putting in Care System with the NHS. Much has been place ways to contain and combat another peak. Might one perhaps arrive in October, 46 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

combining with flu’ as winter approaches, or FROM THE AUTHORITIES come from a localised outbreak elsewhere. Care at £335 million accounts for more than This is therefore a plea for residents to 40% of the total. continue to take great care of themselves and Highways Update: Roads, pavements and their families and to keep well. potholes continue to be maintained, and tree Hertfordshire County Council staff have been maintenance has been ongoing. Please do working flat out, keeping services going continue to report any highways faults on while supporting those front line areas of 0300 123 4047 or on the County Council’s work related to COVID. For example while highways fault reporting section of the library buildings have been closed, those staff website. Many thanks to residents who have not working behind the scenes organising the been watering trees near their homes. on-line library services have been An update on street lighting too – these have volunteering to support Adult Social Care, now all been converted to LED lighting telephoning vulnerable adults who might which is much cheaper to run and which have been shielding or suffering from mental allows more timing flexibility. The lights health issues. The Fire & Rescue service, now stay on an hour later at night until 1am, while continuing to cover all their emergency and will be coming on an hour earlier in the call outs, have sent volunteers to help the morning at 5am instead of 6am as soon as it East of England Ambulance Service. is no longer light that early. These new lights The Finance Team have been ensuring that are directed to shine directly on the pavement the additional costs are both understood and below, and not into front gardens or the under control, and have applied to the middle of the road. As a consequence, where Government for more financial support. the light columns were in the grass verges, it Today (at the end of June) the county wide was the verges that were initially being cost to date is anticipated at £64 million, and illuminated and not the pavements behind. In the Government has so far confirmed an February, before lockdown, I called a site additional £47.9 million towards this. This meeting locally and the highways lighting leaves a short fall of £16.1 million. To put team have now adjusted all our lights which this in context, the County Council’s budget were in the verges to ensure the pavements for this year is £810 million, of which Adult are well lit. [email protected] CPRA NEWS 47

TARRANTS TIMBER LIMITED Harrow Garden Centre, Headstone Lane, Harrow HA2 6NB Telephone: 020 8421 5989 We carry large stocks of sawn and prepared timber, skirting, cladding etc. Also a full range of sheet materials, i.e. MDF, Plywood, Chipboard etc. We also have a cutting service. Vast selection of Fencing, Decking and Garden Sheds All competitively priced. Daily Delivery Service FREE PARKING Website: www.tarrantstimber.co.uk E-mail: [email protected] • LOFT LADDERS FITTED BELL CARPENTRY & JOINERY • LOFTS BOARDED 0208 386 3068/07973 177736 • HATCHES ENLARGED • KITCHENS FITTED www.bellcarpentry.co.uk • GENERAL REPAIRS • FREE ESTIMATES GARY M BELL 12 Foxleys, Carpenders Park, Watford WD19 5DA EASY ACCESS TO YOUR LOFT BY USING A THREE PIECE ALUMINIUM LADDER WITH SUPPORT HANDLE CITY & GUILDS QUALIFIED CARPENTER SEE ADVERTISMENT IN THOMPSON LOCAL & YELLOW PAGES 48 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk

Angela Arnold FROM THE AUTHORITIES Parish Councillor schools and charitable organisations but a The Conservative Parish Councillors for detailed application is required to be seen Carpenders Park are Angela Arnold, Kirsty before decisions are made. We voted for Taxi Barnes, Donna Duncan and Mike Revan. vouchers for disabled and elderly residents Donna and Mike are also District Councillors who are without access to transport. This has for Three Rivers District Council (TRDC). been vital to help these people attend GP The current Parish Councillors meet with the appointments or Hospitals in recent months. Liberal Democrat Councillor and the Labour These vouchers need to be applied for every Parish Councillors at Watford Rural Parish year to the Parish administrative team by the Hall in South Oxhey on a regular monthly residents who are eligible for them. basis to deal with Parish business with Gareth Williams, the Parish Clerk. There are 14 Local events like the fun days were being Councillors in total. organised every year and we look forward to having one in the Parish with the children in The Parish role is an unpaid role and 4 of the the future when we can all meet in larger 5 Conservative Councillors were elected by groups. Carpenders Park residents. Any resident can attend these Meetings which are held There is a representative from the normally on the first Wednesday of the month Neighbourhood Police team to update us on except in August (currently we are holding the work they are doing in the area at our Zoom meetings). The Meetings are advertised Parish Meetings and it gives us and residents with the Agenda on all Parish noticeboards, an opportunity to discuss areas of concern. including the one in Carpenders Park. The Parish Clerk is supported by three team If any resident wanted to speak on a non- members. A reminder, that there is a weekly confidential item on the Agenda, they would subsidised lunch for retired people in the need to inform Gareth Williams, the Parish Parish Hall, which is an opportunity for local Clerk before the Meeting. You are however people to meet and chat over lunch. always welcomed to attend these Parish meetings and watch local democracy at work. The Carpenders Park Councillors work as a team and regularly meet up to discuss all At the full Parish Council, the Councillors kinds of issues that affect Carpenders Park look at Planning Applications in the WRPC residents. If you have concerns, please call us. area and can request that such applications are Our contact numbers are in CPRA News brought before TRDC Planning Committee to under Local Elected Representatives. be determined by its members. We look forward to meeting This process is known as “calling it in”. As a you at local events at the Parish Council we have the right to comment Community Hall (when it on any planning application which affects the can re-open) or around Watford Rural Parish area, that includes Carpenders Park. Carpenders Park. Angela Arnold Parish Cllr We also vote on giving Grants to local 07951031806 CPRA NEWS 49

High quality Softener Salt : 10kgs, 25kgs and block salt 50 www.carpendersparkresidents.org.uk