FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE 48

THE THREAT TO CUFFLEY’S GREEN BELT The Parish Council is totally against the proposed massive encroachment by Metropolis

onto green belt land immediately adjacent to the village of Cuffley.

WHAT IS YOUR VIEW?

If you object to the proposed development, by Metropolis, of 635 dwellings on Green Belt land on the western edge of Cuffley then,

once the application has been submitted, you should let Planning at Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council know of your views. Addit ionally,

your MP should be informed in order for him to see the degree of reaction and resistance there is to this disproportionate proposal.

Many will have attended the exhibition recently mounted by the developer, in January. Their timeline for actual submission of these

proposals to Welwyn Hatfield Council indicated that this will take place in March. This gives you ample time to do three things if you

wish to object:-

1. Sign the petition against this. This is available in the Parish Council office, Tuesday to Friday 10 to 12.30, and on Saturdays

from 9.00 to 10.00.

2. Write [BUT NOT UNTIL THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN FORMALLY SUBMITTED - EXPECTED TO BE IN MARCH] expressing your

views, to the Planning Department at WHBC. Individual letters are taken more seriously than any other form of objection, so

there is no "standard letter" to copy. However, to assist your thoughts, many reasons are given below, some of which you

may agree with and may wish to emphasise in your letter and in your own words.

The address to write to is: Tracy Harvey, Head of Planning, Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Offices, Campus East, Welwyn Garden City, Herts. AL8 6AE.

The suggested heading for your letter is: "Proposed development on land at Northaw Road East"

3. Write to your MP, Charles Walker MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, asking that he press Nick Boles, Planning

Minister, and David Cameron, to ensure that regardless of whether a community is currently devoid of a Local Plan and/or a

Neighbourhood Plan, if their flagship "Localism" policy is to mean anything, then where local views have been clearly and

strongly-expressed, they must be recognised as a valid consideration and taken into account in Planning decisions.

The Parish Council intends to hold a public meeting on 21/22 March 2014 (see separate notice) at around the time the application is

planned to be submitted. The intention is both to give our resistance a final push and to introduce residents to just how our defences

against any such future proposals, may be strengthened.

In the meantime, to assist with your responses, this notice is accompanied by a summary, within,

of what seem to be valid objections, so far identified, which you may wish to select from to

support your objections - preferably in your own words.

F E BRUARY 2014 I S SUE 48

THE THREAT TO CUFFLEY’S GREEN BELT

WHAT IS YOUR VIEW? If you object to the proposed development, by Metropolis, of 635 dwellings on Green Belt land on the

western edge of Cuffley then, once the application has been submitted, you should let Planning at Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council know of your views. Additionally, your MP should be informed in order for him to see the degree of reaction and resistance there is to this disproportionate proposal.

Many will have attended the exhibition recently mounted by the developer, in January. Their timeline for actual submission of these proposals to Welwyn Hatfield Council indicated that this will take place in March. This gives you ample time to do three things if you wish to object:-

1. Sign the petition against this. This is available in the Parish Council office, Tuesday to Friday 10 to 12.30, and on Saturdays from 9.00 to 10.00. 2. Write [BUT NOT UNTIL THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN FORMALLY SUBMITTED - EXPECTED TO BE IN MARCH] expressing your views, to the Planning Department at WHBC. Individual letters are taken more seriously than any other form of objection, so there is no "standard letter" to copy. However, to assist your thoughts, many reasons are given below, some of which you may agree with and may wish to emphasise in your letter and in your own words.

The address to write to is:Tracy Harvey, Head of Planning, Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Offices, Campus East, Welwyn Garden City, Herts. AL8 6AE.

The suggested heading for your letter is:"Proposed development on land at Northaw Road East"

3. Write to your MP, Charles Walker MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, asking that he press Nick Boles, Planning Minister, and David Cameron, to ensure that regardless of whether a community is currently devoid of a Local Plan and/or a Neighbourhood Plan, if their flagship "Localism" policy is to mean anything, then where local views have been clearly and strongly-expressed, they must be recognised as a valid consideration and taken into account in Planning decisions.

The Parish Council intends to hold a public meeting on 21/22 March 2014 (see separate notice) at around the time the application is planned to be submitted. The intention is both to give our resistance a final push and to

introduce residents to just how our defences against any such future proposals, may be strengthened.

In the meantime, to assist with your responses, this notice is accompanied by a summary, within, of what seem to be valid objections, so far identified, which you may wish to select from to

support your objections - preferably in your own words.

The Parish Council is totally against the proposed massive encroachment by Metropolis onto green belt land immediately adjacent to the village of Cuffley.

FEBRUARY 2014 ISSUE 48

THE THREAT TO CUFFLEY’S GREEN BELT The Parish Council is totally against the proposed massive encroachment by Metropolis

onto green belt land immediately adjacent to the village of Cuffley.

WHAT IS YOUR VIEW?

If you object to the proposed development, by Metropolis, of 635 dwellings on Green Belt land on the western edge of Cuffley then,

once the application has been submitted, you should let Planning at Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council know of your views. Addit ionally,

your MP should be informed in order for him to see the degree of reaction and resistance there is to this disproportionate proposal.

Many will have attended the exhibition recently mounted by the developer, in January. Their timeline for actual submission of these

proposals to Welwyn Hatfield Council indicated that this will take place in March. This gives you ample time to do three things if you

wish to object:-

1. Sign the petition against this. This is available in the Parish Council office, Tuesday to Friday 10 to 12.30, and on Saturdays

from 9.00 to 10.00.

2. Write [BUT NOT UNTIL THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN FORMALLY SUBMITTED - EXPECTED TO BE IN MARCH] expressing your

views, to the Planning Department at WHBC. Individual letters are taken more seriously than any other form of objection, so

there is no "standard letter" to copy. However, to assist your thoughts, many reasons are given below, some of which you

may agree with and may wish to emphasise in your letter and in your own words.

The address to write to is: Tracy Harvey, Head of Planning, Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council Offices, Campus East, Welwyn Garden City, Herts. AL8 6AE.

The suggested heading for your letter is: "Proposed development on land at Northaw Road East"

3. Write to your MP, Charles Walker MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, asking that he press Nick Boles, Planning

Minister, and David Cameron, to ensure that regardless of whether a community is currently devoid of a Local Plan and/or a

Neighbourhood Plan, if their flagship "Localism" policy is to mean anything, then where local views have been clearly and

strongly-expressed, they must be recognised as a valid consideration and taken into account in Planning decisions.

The Parish Council intends to hold a public meeting on 21/22 March 2014 (see separate notice) at around the time the application is

planned to be submitted. The intention is both to give our resistance a final push and to introduce residents to just how our defences

against any such future proposals, may be strengthened.

In the meantime, to assist with your responses, this notice is accompanied by a summary, within,

of what seem to be valid objections, so far identified, which you may wish to select from to

support your objections - preferably in your own words.

2

Dear Parent

St Joseph's In The Park is set in beautiful rural surroundings right on Hertford's doorstep in the village of Hertingfordbury, close to Cuffley and Northaw. The space, ease of access by car through the lanes from all directions and our proximity to the county town's amenities and road and rail networks make our school a popular and well-loved place for your children to learn and grow.

We are immensely proud of our reputation. Traditional values, academic standards and innovative approaches to teaching and learning have defined St Joseph's In The Park over a history which stretches back to 1898. Throughout the course of this history we have remained true to a simple core belief that happy children learn and as a result they are well prepared to be active and successful members of their senior schools and beyond.

From our origins in Hertford, through our move to Hertingfordbury Park in 1957, we have not stood still and have maintained our development as a school. Recent building development has provided the children with excellent Music facilities, Science, Art and Design Technology rooms and has enhanced our outstanding Early Years provision. Because happy children learn, we champion support for learning across the ability range and our highly skilled staff are experienced, knowledgeable and provide exciting and engaging learning experiences.

You are always most welcome to come and visit us. Walking through our school and meeting children and staff will give you a better sense of the atmosphere that makes us so unique.

Yours faithfully

Neil Jones Head

WELCOME TO THIS SPECIAL FEBRUARY EDITION OF UPDATE

Inside This Issue:The Threat to Cuffley’s Green BeltResponse to MetropolisThe Annual Parish MeetingLetter From The Parish Council ChairmanCuffley School 75Th AnniversaryClerk’s Update Home WoodDid You Know? Volunteers NeededSCANGB (Save Cuffley And Northaw Green Belt)Details of Local Organisations And Societies

Page 1Page 4 - 6Page 7Page 9 - 10Page 12Page 13 - 16Page 16Page 17Page 17Page 18Page 19

3

Travis PerkinsSupplies more than 100,000 product lines including general building

Materials, timber, plumbing & heating, kitchens, bathrooms,

Landscaping materials & tool hire.

Next day delivery service

Branch Manager Assistant Manager Sales RepresentativeGreg Santer Paula Edwards Trevor Petts 07712878746

Why not take advantage of the Northaw & Cuffley Parish CouncilCash Card which offers discount on all our product lines.

Simply bring in a copy of this advert.

4

edge of Cuffley, contains claims and prospects which at this stage are not supported by any detail and appear unlikely, in reality, to be fulfilled.

Such a scheme would also be a major encroachment onto the Green Belt to provide many

in fact, quite a lot of proven resistance to these proposals. There is no evidence of residents

village is already self-contained.

This land has been designated as Green Belt to protect its openness for its own sake

To build in the Green Belt, developers must prove 'very special circumstances'.

inappropriate use within the Green Belt

evidence is there that this is achievable?

There is also no statement as to whether householders are to be given a choice of fuel supplier

transmission of heat from such a system over such a long distance been proved to work elsewhere.

Given the above doubts, if the scheme were to fail, this would knock a huge hole in the carbon- neutral claims. However,

The Borough as a whole is aiming to increase its housing supply by approx. 14%, but this proposal

635 homes would severely impact upon the character of Cuffley and Northaw. The residents have

Further, a 38% increase.

Density

wide roads, and large front and back gardens which probably average 10 units per acre, with few

RESPONSE TO THE METROPOLIS PROPOSALS

5

A development of 635 units on this site would be at a density well above this, involving building typologies not currently seen in Cuffley, including large apartment blocks (223 apartments of which 78 would be in a retirement village) and terraced development. The inclusion of allotments within the scheme seems an unusual feature for a rural scheme but can perhaps be explained if many of the properties have small private gardens, and allotments are seen as a substitute for this provision.

The proposed location abuts an existing development and open countryside and because of the high ground will be highly visible when approached from the West and South. It must therefore be considered a sensitive site which, if developed, must respond sympathetically to the setting.

At the proposed densities the scheme would be out of place in many suburban settings, and would certainly not reflect the existing character, and sensitive rural location, of Cuffley: in fact, it would have characteristics more frequently seen in many inner city schemes! Given the potential alien nature of the development, its totally separate identity would be reinforced by a lack of permeability from the existing village development. In fact, it could very easily be perceived from within and without as an enclave, and not really part of Cuffley at all!

Starter Homes

There has been no statement regarding what percentage of the above, if any, would be included as social housing and, if none, what proposals there are for compliance with planning housing targets in this respect. Normally, the Council would expect around 30% of any new dwellings to be "affordable". There is also no indication as to where any such housing would be positioned, and in what proximity to the existing roads and pathways in adjacent parts of Cuffley.

At the present time, Cuffley is an aspirational village: people don't expect to be able to purchase their first home in such a village, but may aspire to live there as they progress in life. There are many nearby areas which do contain such homes, and it is therefore believed that it should be acceptable to value and maintain an area as one in which people aspire, eventually, to live.

Infrastructure There is no mention of dealing with the impact such a sizeable development would have on already- overburdened sewerage and highways links, and this would only exacerbate transport problems which are already of major concern. Affinity Water seems already to have a water supply issue to the village.

The approach roads into and out of Cuffley are already running at full capacity, particularly during rush hour and school pick-up times. Even road improvements would not ease the amount of traffic, and these extra homes would generate (possibly 2 car families) at least another 1,000+ cars which would manifestly increase car-based journeys. Cuffley quite often gets gridlocked even now, without this extra burden on our roads, and it should be noted that traffic volumes are due to increase anyway through other approved house-building schemes in the near vicinity. It is also considered that the proposed access roundabout could adversely affect access into and from the sports field, which is already difficult: it is known that a roundabout for an earlier proposal in this position was indeed rejected by Highways.

The train service from Cuffley is already very busy for commuters, yet there is no evidence of any consultation with Network Rail and the operator, First Capital Connect, to establish whether such a vast increase in demand could be satisfactorily addressed in terms of both train capacity and parking problems at or around the station. All aspects of existing infrastructure are already over-stressed.

6

New Shopping Centre There are concerns as to the possible impact such an alternative centre would have on shops in the current village centre, some of which are known to be struggling already: the proposed shops on the development

would seriously impact on the finely balanced economy of the village which needs to be safe -guarded.

Primary School What evidence is there that this would be viable, and acceptable to the local authority, bearing in mind its proximity to the existing primary school and that under-occupancy of the existing schools in the area has lead to children increasingly having to be transported to them from Cheshunt and Enfield, adding to the already dreadful traffic congestion at peak times. A new primary school in this location would be a high generator of car trips in rush hour and would exacerbate the existing traffic problems associated with the existing primary school and Northaw Road East.

Site Drainage It is well-known locally that this site is highly problematic in terms of land drainage, with torrential spillages of muddy water on to the highway and into the road sewers a frequent occurrence, and yet this scheme places a huge reliance upon natural drainage without any recognition of the problem, including, as it does, balancing ponds and permeable paving "allowing the water to drain through the surface to reflect the field conditions that exist currently."

Residential Accommodation for the Elderly We are not aware of any established need for this. Indeed, it is understood that Greenfields is not entirely occupied in this way, due to lack of demand.

Local Bus Route This appears to be another promise without any evidence as to whether any transport company has been consulted, or has offered to supply such a service, bearing in mind that no such service exists through the rest of the village, and that the service along the main B156 itself seems hardly viable.

Leisure Centre etc The proposal indicates only that there is the potential for a leisure centre including a swimming pool. There is no guarantee that this would be built or that any private sector organisation would be prepared to invest in and run such a venture, especially in the long term. We are not aware of any marketing exercise to establish the likely take-up by residents.

New Doctors' Surgery How realistic is this when the current Cuffley doctors practice has openly declared that it wishes to decamp fully out of Cuffley to its other premises in Goffs Oak. Further, putting a GP surgery in this location is sub optimal as it is remote, with difficult pedestrian access

Why Here? In terms of housing need, this development would cater for far more than local needs. This would be tantamount to the creation of a whole new village. For instance, in terms of number of newly created dwellings, this development alone is over three times the size of the village of Northaw.

Is this the only suitable site? This is effectively a new "self-contained" village which could be built anywhere: without very good reason, it should certainly not be simply planted in the Green Belt

which is so vital to this neighbourhood.

New Primary School

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ANNUAL MEETING OF THE PARISH OF NORTHAW & CUFFLEY

Friday 21 March at 7.30 to 10.00pm

OR

Saturday 22 March at 2.30 to 5.00pm

At Cuffley Hall, Maynard Place, Cuffley.

THEME: “THE THREAT TO OUR GREEN BELT”

and the need for a Neighbourhood Plan

The Metropolis Scheme

635 dwellings and a new village centre proposed on Cuffley’s western border

What can we do about it now?

How do we prepare for future threats?

Proposed Neighbourhood Plan

[If you wish to research this in advance, enter “planning portal neighbourhood planning”]

What could it include?

What should it include?

How you would wish future development to be dealt with.

An opportunity to get involved in the making of a formal plan.

REFRESHMENTS

With Licensed Bar on the Friday event!

THIS IS THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS BUILDING YOUR PREFERENCES INTO A

FORMAL PLAN WHICH WILL THEN, BY LAW, BECOME PART OF THE FORMAL PLANNING PROCESS.

8

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION!In order to compile a database of residents’ E-mail address so that we can send you news and information etc electronically, if you are happy with this, would you please send an E-mail to:- northawcuffleycouncil@gmail.com Please note that this is a new addresswhich is quite separate to our normalbusiness E-mail addresses.

Jason GrocockClerk to the Council

Life Church - Potters Bar Campus: Oakmere Community Centre, Sunday Service at 10.00 am. Life Church - Cuffley Campus: King James AvenueSunday Service at 11.00 am.

one church meeting in two venues

Further information: e: office@lifechurch.uk.com t: 01707 876060 w: www.lifechurch.uk.com

Oakmere Estate

Potters Bar

Our Latest Venture

Did you know that 13 million people live below the poverty line in the UK?

Every day people in the UK go hungry for reasons ranging from redundancy to receiving an unexpected bill on a low income.

In response to this growing need, Life Church has set up a Foodbank on the Oakmere Estate, Potters Bar in partnership with the Trussell Trust.

If you are interested in helping or providing donations, please email or contact the church office for further information.

NORTHAW VILLAGE HALL

Northaw Village Hall continues to provide a community facility for all to use. There are many clubs using the hall at present and the list is shown below. There are vacancies at certain times and on certain days, particularly at the weekend and bookings can be made through our bookings secretary also shown below.

The following are clubs that run regularly:-

Monday. 9.30-11.00am. Yoga with Sally Norfolk Monday. 1.00- 2.45pm. Great Wood Children’s Centre – Debutots and

Heartbeeps Happy House (Children Walking to age 4.) Mondays. 7.00-10.00pm. Wing Chung Martial Arts with Barry Hawkes Tuesday. 10.00-11.00am. Pilates with Keti Snee Tuesday. 7.00-10.00pm. Cuffley Industrial Heritage Society (2nd Tuesday of the month.) Wednesday. 9.30-10.30am. Yoga with Paula Gardiner Wednesday. 1-30-2-45pm. Sport for Youngsters. Wednesday. 3.15-5.00pm. Ballet with Miss Loizana Kyriacou (Age 2 upwards.) Wednesday. 6.15-7.15pm. Yoga with Paula Gardiner Wednesday 7.30-8.30pm. Davina Gutteridge, Pilates. Thursday. 9.30-10.30am. Zumba with Judy Martell Thursday. 7.00-10.00pm. Women's Institute (2nd Thursday each month) Friday. FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR BOOKINGS. Saturday. Sundays. 9-15 to 12-00. From 2nd March Dog Training Classes. Enquiries to the Booking Secretary

in the first instance. Hire prices are Monday – Friday up to 6-00 pm. - £13 per hourFriday 6-00 pm. to Sunday night - £20 per hour.

The Booking Secretary is Charlotte Jeffery on 07789 558928 ……………………………………………………………………………………………..

9

Proposed major development on western boundary of CuffleyNaturally, this is the first item to mention, and you will see elsewhere in this edition our draft response to this scheme which was displayed to the public, by Metropolis, in January.

We are publishing our draft response in order to help you with your written submission (should you be so inclined) to Welwyn Hatfield Planning, once an application is formally submitted – anything sent in before this date would just be a waste.

I must also take the opportunity to correct some misperceptions on this topic:-

1. The Parish Council has NOT given permission for this (as some agitated emails have assumed) and never could – it is not within our remit to do this, as that is the role of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council.

2. Metropolis was only exhibiting its proposals for pre-application comments – the scheme has not yet been submitted and has certainly not been approved.

3. The itemised petition with around half a dozen items and panels for your comments, asking for you to drop this into the Parish Council office, was NOT issued by us – we’d be obliged if anyone producing anything like this in future would make it clear that it has not been produced by the Parish Council, as we received much criticism for what appeared to be a weak response on our behalf – It wasn’t us guv.!

This item will also form the basis for next month’s Annual Parish Meeting, which we are doubling-up on owing to the numbers expected to attend. Please attend on only one of the dates (21 or 22 March) as per the Notice of this which again appears elsewhere in this issue.

The meeting will also introduce you to the concept of a Neighbourhood Plan, which will eventually form part of the statutory process which Planners must adhere to, and we’ll be seeking your thoughts and ideas as to what items this should cover, as well as its general approach.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Leaving UsI’m sorry to have to report that Borough Councillor Colin Couch and Parish Councillor Linda Couch are leaving us for pastures new, on the south coast, to be near members of their family. They will both be a huge loss to our community.

Colin has served us well as one of the seven-member Cabinet of Welwyn Hatfield and our influence at that level can only be diminished by his departure. He has also been hugely influential in motivating people to get involved in various aspects and organisations over the years, so at least his legacy in that respect will continue for some time.

As for Linda – She has been my right hand man, so to speak, since I joined the Parish Council some four years ago when she was its Chairman. I found myself elected Chairman a few months later and as my Vice Chairman her help has been invaluable since, both in the links she has with our past and the unwavering support she has maintained over those years.

She has chaired our Planning Apps Committee since its formation, and has played a full role in both our P&R Cttee and our Neighbourhood Plan Working Group. Her input in all these respects really will be missed as, of course, will her willingness to get involved to the fullest extent in all the one-off social and other activities we hold from time to time.

The loss of Linda and Colin leaves the community bereft of the qualities of application and commitment they both so willingly contributed, for which I offer my heartfelt thanks. We’re all sorry to see you go, but we do understand why, and I can only offer our very best wishes to you both in your “retirement”.

Be a Parish CouncillorOf course, this means we really would welcome contact from anyone who feels they would like to become a Councillor. The four year term of this Parish Council ends in May next year, so this would be the ideal opportunity to get your feet under the table for a year before deciding if you would wish to stand for a further four years after that.

The commitment involves, as a minimum, attendance at the bi-monthly evening Council meetings, and participation (approx bi-monthly) in the Saturday Surgery Rota, manning the office from 9 to 10.00. Beyond this, you could become more active by joining all or any of the Planning Applications Cttee, the Policy and Resources Cttee and/or the Neighbourhood Plan Working Group, and representing the Council on various outside organisations, such as Cuffley Hall or Northaw Village Hall. Of course, over-riding all of this would be the enhanced interest you’d naturally take in the activities of your community and approaches from residents from time to time.

Letter from the Parish Council Chairman – Adrian Prest

10

If the idea appeals to you, please make early contact with our Parish Clerk, Jason Grocock, at the Council office in Maynard Place, or email northawcuffleyclerk@btconnect.com

Disgraceful BehaviourI’m afraid that once again we were faced with some disgraceful behaviour and absolutely uncouth language from the same man and wife team we unfortunately find at every meeting. If I could ban them I would, but I don’t have that power.

A number of people were quite offended and upset to witness this and I must, therefore, further tighten control in order to minimise their opportunity to disrupt our otherwise very constructive meetings.

In accordance with our Standing Orders, only one (previously submitted) question is allowed per person, not a string of questions which become a diatribe: if more than one question is submitted then only the first one will be read out. This will be adhered to with these two, with no supplementaries, and no casual opportunities to ask spur-of-the-moment questions or to join Member debates in any way. I’ve been a little too easy with them of late (in an effort to gain any constructive input) but to no avail.

We learn from our mistakes, don’t we? Well, some of us do!

Councillor SurgeriesOur County Councillor’s monthly surgeries are held on the second Thursday of the month at 5 to 6.00 in the Parish Office in Maynard Place.

We also hold a Borough or Parish Councillor surgery every Saturday morning from 9 to 10.00

MeetingsThe Parish Council meets usually on the third Tuesday of alternate months from January to November at 7.30 in Northaw Village Hall and all are welcome to attend and observe. Questions are only permitted if submitted by the deadline: see Parish Council Notice Boards for further details and Agendas which appear at least a week before each meeting.

You will be made very welcome at Cuffley Hall on the 3rd Wednesday of

each month from 9-30 a.m. until noon, to join us at Cuffley “Homemakers”.

We are not just a cosy ladies’ circle as perhaps our name might imply,

but we meet for coffee, a chat with friends in a comfortable hall,

enjoy a good raffle, and browse through books and articles on the

bring-and-buy stall; followed by invited speakers who keep us both

informed and often amused, on many topics. A nice morning out!

Most important to us all is that our profits go to support the Isabel Hospice

in WGC where this caring effort is very much appreciated.

Want to give us a try? More details are available

From Maureen, on 01707-872498

You will be made very welcome at Cuffley Hall on the 3rd Wednesday of each month

from 9-30 a.m. until noon, to join us at Cuffley “Homemakers”. We are not just a cosy ladies’ circle as perhaps our name might imply, but we meet for coffee, a chat with friends in a comfortable hall, enjoy a good raffle, and browse through books and articles on the

bring-and-buy stall; followed by invited speakers who keep us both informed and often amused,

on many topics. A nice morning out!

Most important to us all is that our profits go to support the Isabel Hospice in WGC where this

caring effort is very much appreciated. Want to give us a try? More details are available

From Maureen, on 01707-872498

You will be made very welcome at Cuffley Hall on the 3rd Wednesday of

each month from 9-30 a.m. until noon, to join us at Cuffley “Homemakers”.

We are not just a cosy ladies’ circle as perhaps our name might imply,

but we meet for coffee, a chat with friends in a comfortable hall,

enjoy a good raffle, and browse through books and articles on the

bring-and-buy stall; followed by invited speakers who keep us both

informed and often amused, on many topics. A nice morning out!

Most important to us all is that our profits go to support the Isabel Hospice

in WGC where this caring effort is very much appreciated.

Want to give us a try? More details are available

From Maureen, on 01707-872498

CUFFLEY FLORAL ART CLUB

Do you like flowers?

Then why not come and enjoy the companionship of Cuffley Floral Art Club?

We are a friendly club that meets every 2nd Tuesday in the month at Cuffley Hall, Maynard Place

from 8pm - 10pm. Doors open from 7-pm when you find a welcoming cup of tea or coffee.

Then just sit back and enjoy the love of flowers. We have approximately 8 flower demonstrations,

a garden meeting, a social evening and an outing during the course of the year.

Why not try it as a visitor; we would love to see you.

For further information please ring our Secretary, Jackie Robinson on 0208 441 3663

Forthcoming events:

11th March 2014 'The Owl and the Pussycat' by Ione Woodger-Smith

8th April Can you remember by Carol Campbell

13th May. Floral Odyssey by Margot Cooper

10th June. Summer Opulence by Elfleda Dew

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~ New Residents Information Packs ~

If you have recently moved into Northaw or Cuffley, you can obtain a Parish Information Pack from the Parish Council

Office. This pack includes details of local organisations throughout the district, contact telephone numbers etc. and general information about the Northaw & Cuffley

Community.

A warm welcome awaits you in the office and there is always time to help with your enquiries,or you can ring the

office on 01707 875825

You can also contact us via our own website: www.northawcuffleypc.co.uk

(Our out of hours contact for emergencies only is 0770 252 0527)

If you have a new neighbour, who you think might appreciate an Information Pack, just let them know that

they are available free from the Council Office, at 7 Maynard Place, Cuffley, EN6 4JA.

Jason Grocock, Clerk to the Council

MONTHLY SURGERY SESSION BY YOUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR:MARK

We are very pleased to report that our County Councillor, Mark Mills-Bishop is continuing to hold

his very helpful monthly surgery session in the Parish Council Office on the second Thursday of

each month. The sessions run from 5-00 p.m. to 6-00 p.m. and there is no need to book an appointment -

just call in at 7 Maynard Place, Cuffley. The March session will be on the Thursday 13th and the April session will be on Thursday 10th.

Please note that there will be no Surgery on 8th May due to the Borough and European

Elections later on 22nd May.

For further information please contact:Jason Grocock

Clerk to the CouncilNorthaw & Cuffley Parish Council

7 Maynard PlaceCuffley.

EN6 4JA01707-875825

MILLS - BISHOP

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CUFFLEY SCHOOL 75TH ANNIVERSARY

On Friday, 6 June 2014, Cuffley School will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary. We would like to invite past pupils and former members of staff, as well as local people to join us. The afternoon celebrations will begin at 1.30 pm until 5.00 pm. Please come and listen to live bands, have some tea and enjoy our traditional stalls. Later in the evening, from 7.00 pm there will be a party for staff, former staff, any past parents and pupils over 18 years old (sorry no young children). The afternoon is not a ticketed event, but the evening will be. Tickets will be on sale at a later date and will be limited. If you have any souvenirs, photos, reports or uniform, we would love to borrow these items. Please get in touch via the school website where there is a Facebook link, www.facebook.com/Cuffley School, or email: 75years@cuffley.herts.sch.uk and tell all your friends (old and new). The staff really want to make a success of the day and are sending out a plea to local businesses to donate raffle prizes (we are aiming for 75!). Please get in touch to find out more and if you can offer help in any way. We will be very grateful. If you are able to donate a prize and would like to place an advert in our programme we will be happy to do this for you as a thank you!

CUFFLEY SCHOOL A Foundation School

Headteacher: Wendy Heyes Deputy Headteacher: Janice MartinTheobalds Road, Cuffley, Hertfordshire EN6 4HN

Tel: 01707 888100 Fax: 01707 888101

Email: admin@cuffley.herts.sch.uk Web: www.cuffleyschool.org

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Northaw & Cuffley Parish Council

CLERK’S UPDATE ON ITEMS SINCE THE LAST EDITION Northaw War Memorial refurbished for the Rememberance Day Service which was extremely well attended on Sunday 10th November 2013.

The Cuffley Christmas Lighting Ceremony on 29th November 2013 was very well supported, with the Lights switched on by our County Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop – aided by his Granddaughter! Tea & warm minced pies again provided courtesy of Cuffley Co-Op.

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The “Smarten up Cuffley” project work is almost completed.

New Hanging baskets in Station Road/Maynard Place:

Drug den near on boarder of Parish cleared:

New peddle operated Dog Waste Bin provided at the entrance to Footpath 1:

Community Party, on 16th January a great success with almost 100 elderly residents attending. The new format & extensive buffet was much praised, and stars of the event - the Cuffley School Choir:

Millennium Garden Wall rebuilt and protective barrier fitted:

Parish Council provided more Salt Bins in Northaw and Cuffley:

New Public Notice Board purchased for Maynard Place

New Book out now - £25= from

Wackett & Son in Station Road, Cuffley.

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Millennium Garden Wall rebuilt and protective barrier fitted:

Parish Council provided more Salt Bins in Northaw and Cuffley:

New Public Notice Board purchased for Maynard Place

New Book out now - £25= from

Wackett & Son in Station Road, Cuffley.

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Work on the Budget & Precept 2014-15 completed with further savings and an increase below inflation of just 2% rise

Preparation for the Annual Parish Meeting with protection of the Green Belt and the Neighbourhood Plan being the main theme

this year

Jason Grocock, Clerk to the Council E-mail: northawcuffleyclerk@btconnect.com

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HOME WOODThe volunteers had their annual meeting on the 22nd January to discuss their priorities and programme of work for the year ahead.

The Wood Warden volunteer group continues to meet every Monday morning normally at the Tolmers Road entrance at 9.30 am to carry out maintenance and development tasks in the Wood.

We aim to be a sociable group providing some moderate physical exercise in the open air whilst contributing a valuable community service.

We welcome any new volunteers, who should contact the Parish office or phone 01707 888546to get in touch.

Brian Russell. Senior Home Wood Warden.

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Work on the Budget & Precept 2014-15 completed with further savings and an increase below inflation of just 2% rise

Preparation for the Annual Parish Meeting with protection of the Green Belt and the Neighbourhood Plan being the main theme

this year

Jason Grocock, Clerk to the Council E-mail: northawcuffleyclerk@btconnect.com

Gardening Do You

NEED a strong pair of hands for those gardening jobs? NEED your vegetable garden dug? NEED your grass cutting? NEED logs moving/splitting?

Please ring Paul Curson 01707 875622 £7 per hour

POLICE SURGERY Don`t forget that the Police Surgery is held on the first Wednesday of every month at Northaw & Cuffley Parish Council Offices, 7 Maynard Place,

Cuffley, EN6 4JA.

Between the hours of: 10am – 12 noon

Come and meet your local officers: PCSO Mark Randall PCSO Dan Kinsella

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DID YOU KNOW?In April this year it will be 21 years since we opened our Northaw & Cuffley Parish Council, “One Stop Shop” at 7 Maynard Place, Cuffley!

160 Darkes lane, potters bar,

en6 1af. 01707 651460

we are able to assist in

all of your cycling needs.

offerING both sales and

servicing.

We look forward to helping you in any way

we can.

Cannondale and giant stockists.

By Cycle

DID YOU KNOW?

In April this year it will be 21 years since we opened our

Northaw & Cuffley Parish Council, “One Stop Shop” at

7 Maynard Place, Cuffley!

Opening of “One Stop Shop and Office”,Maynard Place, Cuffley, April 1993

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

The delivery of Update to every property

in the Parish is dependant entirely on

volunteers from you, the residents of

Northaw and Cuffley!

Please help us to get Update delivered

to every house quickly by volunteering.

The commitment is not great with only

4 issues per year, so why not contact

us now in the Parish Office by ringing

01707-875825 or E-mailing

ncpc@btconnect.com

Many thanks in anticipation of your help.

Jason & Carol

Peters Wood Walks Applications from residents for the next walk in Peters Wood, Cuffley,

are now invited:

On Wednesday 19th March 2014

The start time for this walk is 2-30 pm

Further walks will follow on 18th June and 17th September.

Please note that only 10 residents are invited to join each walk, and must stay in one group with the walk

leader. If you are interested in joining the walk, please make your application in writing to the Clerk to the

Council, at 7 Maynard Place, Cuffley, EN6 4JA, or E-mail northawcuffleyclerk@btconnect.com, providing name,

address, and contact phone number.

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SCANGB (Save Cuffley & Northaw Green Belt)

www.facebook.com/scan.gb

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT IN CUFFLEY

You will no doubt have heard of the proposals to build some 635 dwellings on green belt land in Northaw Road East. This would represent an increase of some 30% to the population of Cuffley.

In response to this we have formed an action group SCANGB (Save Cuffley And Northaw Green Belt) to represent the concerns of all residents and co-ordinate our collective response.

To kick this off we are holding a series of meetings that we intend will:

1) Update residents on what we know to be the current thinking behind the plans from the developer

2) Agree on a way forward to address these plans

3) Represent the wishes of Cuffley and Northaw residents

4) Provide a focal point for communication and all activity relating to this development

At the moment we are just a few residents who are looking to bring all interested groups (the Parish Council and Residents Association) together with residents who have shown a concern about these proposals.

We have arranged 2 sessions each to be held at Northaw Village Hall, Northaw on

April 5th 12 midday-1pmApril 5th 2.30pm-3.30pm

And 2 sessions each to be held at Cuffley Hall, Maynards place on

April 10th 5pm-6pmApril 10th 7.30-8.30pm

It would help with managing numbers if you could confirm your attendance at one of these meetings to scangreenbelt@gmail.com

Our website www.facebook.com/scan.gb We believe in saving the green belt but without your support this will not happen.

If you believe in retaining Cuffley as a village we need you with us.

We look forward to seeing you at one of these meetings.

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Northaw & Cuffley Parish Local Organisations and Societies

Brownies:

1st CuffleyAmanda Hollis01992 633701

2nd CuffleyMrs Rebecca Watt01707 872061

Churches : St Andrews & St Thomas a BecketChurch OfficeSt Andrews Church Cuffley01707 872677

Life Church CuffleyKing James AvenueCuffley01707 876060

St Martin de PorresCatholic ChurchChurch CloseCuffley01707 873308

Local Organisations:

Cuffley Art SocietyMrs. MarianHandford01707 874232

Cuffley Badminton (Tuesdays 8.30 –11.00pm)Mr or Mrs S Paine01707 875387

Cuffley Care at Home Service:Liz RuaneYouth & Community Centre, Station RoadCuffley EN6 4EY01707 876197

Cuffley Industrial Heritage SocietyMr Don Munns. 01707 873680

Cuffley Floral Art ClubMrs Pat Grainger01707 875100

Cuffley Football ClubSecretary for SeniorsMr Brian Gruenewald01992 425750

Cuffley Football ClubSecretary for YouthsMrs. Debbie Borley01707 875273

Cuffley Football ClubSecretary for Juniors & general enquiresMr. Kevin Borley 01707 875273

Cuffley Friends of Cancer Research UKPat Lovatt01707 873060

Cuffley Hall Tea DancesMr. G. Sexton01707 874577

Cuffley HallThe ManagerMaynard PlaceCuffley EN6 4JA01707 875389

Cuffley HomemakersMrs. Jill Beale01707 875079

Cuffley Hall Short Mat BowlsMr Alan Kelley01707 874959

Cuffley Horticultural SocietyMr Roy Papworth01707 874357

Cuffley Karate ClubMr. Allan Chaston01707 874389

Cuffley & Northaw Youth & Community CentreThe ManagerStation RoadCuffley EN6 4EY 01707 872642

Cuffley & Northaw Youth & Community CentreOver 50 Club01707 870854

Cuffley & Northaw Sports & Social ClubMr. Kevin Borley01707 875273

Cuffley Operatic SocietyMrs A Rule01707 888415

Cuffley PlayersMrs H Harris01707 873113

Country DancingMrs A Wilkins01707 875313

Friends of Northaw Great WoodSecretary – Liz Hart0208 366 2703Email:secretary@ fongw.orguk

GuidesMrs Alison Woodman01992 632174

Kidston Institute Mr. Brian Shrewry01707 642354

Neighbourhood WatchElizabeth Stredwick01707 880967

Northaw TransitionAngelina Khan01707 655059www.northawtti.webs.com

Homewood Volunteers GroupBrian Russell01707 888546

Northaw & Cuffley Residents AssociationMr Ken Golding01707 873953

Northaw & Cuffley Bowling ClubMr Ray Brewer01707 87277

Northaw & Cuffley Lawn Tennis ClubMr Ken Munday07802 724008

Scouts1st Cuffley Scout Group Beavers & Cubs Mrs Maureen WardGSL 01707 873519

1st Northaw Scout Group Beavers & Cubs & Scouts Toni Marsh GSL 01707 642780

Northaw Women’s InstituteMrs C Summerhayes01707 874443

Northaw Village HallBookings: contactMrs Charlotte Jeffery07789 558928

Schools, Pre Schools, and Nurseries:

Cuffley SchoolTheobalds RoadCuffley. EN6 4HN01707 888100

Northaw CE Primary SchoolVineyards RoadNorthaw EN6 4PB01707 652869

Cuffley Pre-SchoolPlay Group07508 707155

Four Corners Pre School07947 438232

Northaw Pre-SchoolSquigglesNikki: 07885 426220Danielle: 07545 908201

Musical TeapotsContact Mandy07800 818444

Cuffley Community Centre Pre-School07806 331187

SparklersFor babies & toddlers aged0-4 yrs. with parent or carerTuesday afternoons at Cuffley Life Church 01707 876772

Froebel Family Support Group (CVS)Tents, Tunnels, Toys for Toddlers, Tea and help for Mums/Carers01707 875016 or 01707 870009 ---------------------------------Northaw & Cuffley Parish Council Offices can be found at:7 Maynard PlaceCuffleyHertfordshire EN6 4JATel: 01707 875825

Email contacts:Council Clerk & Proper Officer:northawcuffleyclerk@ btconnect.com or

Deputy Clerk:ncpc@btconnect.com

Visit our Web Sitenorthawcuffleypc.co.uk

Offices Open Tues to- Fri 10.00am-12.30pm Saturday 9.00am –10.00am

Every Saturday a different local Parish or Borough Councillor holds a surgery in the Council Offices.

Update is designed and published by Northaw & Cuffley Parish Council, Maynard Place, Cuffley.

Editor: Jason Grocock.Clerk to the Council.

Advertising & copy to Carol Branigan please.E-mail: ncpc@btconnect.com

12/02/2014

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Art Club – Monday afternoon & Tuesday eveningBadminton sessions – Monday morning & Tuesday morning, afternoon and eveningFolk Dancing – Monday afternoonsShort Mat Bowls – Monday evenings and Wednesday afternoonsFloral Art - Tuesday evenings, monthlySpiritual Healing – Every 3rd Tuesday morning of the month.Line Dancing – Wednesday evenings 7 pm- 10pmTea Dances – Alternate Thursday afternoonsHorticultural Society – Thursday evenings monthly Residents Association –Thursday evenings monthly Weightwatchers – Friday morningsBallet & Dance School – Friday afternoons, & Sunday mornings.

Visit our website for more information:www.cuffleyhall.co.uk

Cuffley Hall is available to hire for weddings, Parties, family functions, seminars, clubs, and Societies.

For Bookings tel: 01707-875389 or E-mail info@cuffleyhall.co.uk

CUFFLEY HALL - IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS NORTHAW & CUFFLEY PARISH COUNCIL FEES & CHARGES - NO INCREASE SINCE JUNE 2013!

LAMBS CLOSE RESIDENT PARKING PERMITS

PROPERTY OWNERS:First vehicle per property £25= p.a.

Second vehicle per property £40= p.a.Third vehicle per property £60= p.a.

TENANTSFirst vehicle per property £12.50= for 6 months.Second vehicle per property £20= for 6 months.Third vehicle per property £30= for 6 months.

ALL RESIDENTSMotorcycles £10= p.a.

Business/Trade Vehicles £225= p.a.Charge for reissue or change of vehicle £3.50

Heavy Duty Permit Holders £1=

GARDEN WASTE SACKSPer pack of 5 - £5.50

DOG WASTE BAGS50 bags @ £3.50 or 10 bags + Scooper @ £4.50

BOOKING PUBLIC TENNIS COURT£10= per hour

Plus £20= deposit for key

Jason GrocockClerk & RFO, Northaw & Cuffley Council7 Maynard Place, CuffleyHerts, EN6 4JA01707-875825

All in Cuffley Hall with an 8-00 p.m. start

27 February,Call That an Allotment?!

George Dunnion - as seen on "Gardeners World” TVtalks on the way that he and his partner Serge have created a stunning outdoor space featuring a huge collection of roses as well as exotic plants and 30 different vegetables. You can visit under the NGS Open Garden scheme. 700 people did on one day last year!

20 MarchBugs! To conserve, kill or co-habit?

Ian Bedford, passionate research entomologist, with the John Innes Research Institute talks about the diversity of garden bugs that we live with in the UK: the plant pests and some of the beneficial bugs whilst unravelling some of the sometimes confusing messages on wildlife gardening, versus growing healthy plants.

24 AprilThe Chelsea Fringe

Tim Richardson, founder of the "alternative gardening festival", on how it started and how it has progressed, from 100 events in 2012 to some 250 in 2013. Tim will explain how he was driven by a realisation that a new generation looks upon gardening as not so much a hobby, but as means of improving urban areas and making local friendships. He will also provide a flavour of the kinds of event in the festival, which is entirely independent of the RHS and Chelsea Flower Show.

All welcome. Admission Non-members £1 Members FREE

All in Cuffley Hall with an 8-00 p.m. start

27 February,Call That an Allotment?!

George Dunnion - as seen on "Gardeners World” TVtalks on the way that he and his partner Serge have created a stunning outdoor space featuring a huge collection of roses as well as exotic plants and 30 different vegetables. You can visit under the NGS Open Garden scheme. 700 people did on one day last year!

20 MarchBugs! To conserve, kill or co-habit?

Ian Bedford, passionate research entomologist, with the John Innes Research Institute talks about the diversity of garden bugs that we live with in the UK: the plant pests and some of the beneficial bugs whilst unravelling some of the sometimes confusing messages on wildlife gardening, versus growing healthy plants.

24 AprilThe Chelsea Fringe

Tim Richardson, founder of the "alternative gardening festival", on how it started and how it has progressed, from 100 events in 2012 to some 250 in 2013. Tim will explain how he was driven by a realisation that a new generation looks upon gardening as not so much a hobby, but as means of improving urban areas and making local friendships. He will also provide a flavour of the kinds of event in the festival, which is entirely independent of the RHS and Chelsea Flower Show.

All welcome. Admission Non-members £1 Members FREE

CUFFLEY & DISTRICT WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON CLUB

Northaw & Cuffley Youth & Community Centre1.30pm - 4.30pm

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

Come.

SNOOKER - TABLE TENNIS - BOARD GAMES - CARDS - ART ROOM

/ £ * ♦ J ^

♦ ♦;x

MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES: John White TEL: 01707 875589

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News from Isabel HospiceMarch /April 2014

I would be really grateful if you could include the following forthcoming events in your next publication. If you have any queries please telephone Gill Macdonald on 01707 382500.

ISABEL HOSPICE

MARCHSaturday 29 March – Mayoral Civic Dinner in support of Isabel Hospice.. 7.30pm. Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club.

A fantastic chance to attend this fabulous Civic Dinner and support Isabel Hospice. The dinner will be held at the Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club. For more information please contact Renee Friend on 07854 374481.

Sunday 30 March - Annie’s Adult Aquathon in aid of Isabel Hospice. 12.00 – 14.00.Haileybury College Swimming Pool.

This is a 300m pool swim followed by a 3k undulating run all in the grounds of Haileybury College in aid of Isabel Hospice. It is organised by Annie Thomas, a long standing Hospice supporter.

The distances are designed to encourage new-comers to Aquathlon as well as being an early season sharpener for more experienced aquathletes. Suitable for entrants age 18 and over.

£20 entry fee. For more information please contact Isabel Hospice on 01707 382500. Entry forms can be downloaded at www.isabelhospice,org.uk.

APRILSaturday 5th April. 7pm- 10pm. Sponsored Swim to raise money for Isabel Hospice. Haileybury College Swimming Pool.

Come and join Isabel Hospice for this great evening of splashing fun! The sponsored swim is in aid of Isabel Hospice and is suitable for children and adults of all swimming abilities. Entry fees are £15 for Adults and £5 for children under 16. Under 14’s must be accompanied by an adult. Entry forms are available online at www.isabelhospice.org.uk or call Isabel Hospice on 01707 382500 for more information.

Saturday 19th April and Monday 21st April. 2pm – 5pm. Teas in the Garden. Mill House, Welwyn.

The Gardens of Mill House, Welwyn will be open to the public on Saturday 19th April and Monday 21st April from 2pm - 5pm. Admission is £3.50 for adults, children free,. Proceeds from the teas will go to Isabel Hospice.

27th April. Rotary Club Walk. Campus West Car Park, Welwyn Garden City.

A fun and healthy day out and a chance to raise sponsorship as well. Please support Isabel Hospice by making us your chosen charity. For more information please contact John Hopley at the Rotary Club on 01707 330902.

Many thanks, Gill Macdonald - Press Officer, Isabel HospiceTel 01707 382500 gillian.macdonald@isabelhospice.org.uk

CUFFLEY HALL

AGM

13 March 2014 7.30pm

All residents of Cuffley are invited to attend the AGM (bar open)

Nomination Forms for election to the Management Committee are available from the reception desk in the Hall.

Nomination forms must be returned by 3rd March 2014

Age: 2-5 years

Nikki: 07885 426220 Danielle: 07545 908201

Email: northawpre-school.squiggles@hotmail.com

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COS (Cuffley Operatic Society)

Almost 40 Years of Musical Theatre in Cuffley Hall!

Next year will be our 40th anniversary (more of the celebrations later!) and for the last 39 years we have offered two musical theatre performances a year in Cuffley Hall. We enjoy variety, so sometimes it has been a classic show like ‘Oklahoma’, sometimes a more modern show like ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ and sometimes a concert based on a theme.

After a gloriously successful year in 2013 when our two productions – ‘Sing it again, Cuffley’ (May) and ‘Smokey Joe’s Café’ (November) played to rave audiences we are once again in rehearsal for our May 2014 production (7th to 10th).

‘Stepping out – the musical’ tells the familiar story of the lives, loves, and laughs of a group of women (and one man) attending a weekly tap class in a dingy church hall. Mavis, the ex-professional dancer who runs the class; bubbly Sylvia; nervous Andy; snobby but well meaning Vera; confident, attractive Maxine; fat, plain Lynne; anxious Dorothy; larger than life Rose and Geoffrey, the lone widowed male; all accompanied on the piano by lugubrious Mrs Fraser. The tappers all improve with the show climaxing with a big glitzy tap routine number!

Our November show this year will see the return of our successful ‘Music Hall’ format themed on the songs, poetry and events duringthe years 1910 to 1920 and including a reference to Leefe Robinson and his importance to the history of Cuffley.

Support your local theatre and come and join us! We always welcome new performing members, but you don’t have to appear on stage to support us. We also need back stage crew for set production, costumes, make up, help with publicity – the list is endless! But most important you can support us by joining our audience in Cuffley Hall. There is raised seating, comfortable chairs and a bar!

Contacts for all enquiries or to book tickets for our next show:cuffleyoperatic1@gmail.com or 01707 888415

Or look us up on the web and Facebook!

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