June 2015
-1-
In this issue:
Exclusive interview with Roland Gift
HR Column from Consensus HR
Curwens Column
Relationship Advice
Art Column
Win Tickets to see Pongos Party
Janey Lee Grace Sitting Correctly
Car Test Mini JCW
Hero Cheese of the Month
Big Barn Food Column
Listings Herts, Beds & Bucks
Page
4
8
11
12
14
16
18
20
22
23
24
the Welly club in Hull, it was a venue we all used to go to it was kind of our little
hang out, and our keyboard player gave The Beat a demo tape and they liked it so
they took us on tour and we did about 10 dates up and down the country, it was
fantastic fun, it was really good.
How did the Fine Young Cannibals come about? The Beat had split up and our
group had split up too and I had moved to London and I did not know but Dave and
Andy had been looking for a singer and had had this thing running on MTV searching
for a singer and they had not had any luck. One of them remembered me from the
Akrykykz days, even though I was mainly playing sax, although I did do one song,
and they managed to track me down. Then they invited me up to Birmingham to
meet them and talk to them plus they had some backing tracks which I took away
and managed to get about 1 songs out of them. I would go up to Birmingham for
a couple of days at a time to work together.
How did the name Fine Young Cannibals come
about? There was a film called All the Fine Young
Cannibals. We had been given the front cover by
Blues and Soul magazine but we had not got a
name and if we did not sort out a name we were
going to lose the front cover so thats how we got
the name.
In1990 you were named by People magazine as one of the fifty most beautiful
people in the world, how did you feel about that? Yes what a curse, I thought it
was funny, a lot of things get said about you when youre well known and that was
just one of them and that has been one that has stuck around.
You then went from singing to acting in a film called Sammy and Rosie Get Laid,
how did you find acting? It is a funny thing acting, I do enjoy it although I dont do
it that much, but it can be sort of hit and miss, like you are a gun for hire when
youre acting, whereas when you do music youre creating your own work - which I
find more interesting than showing up and doing somebody elses thing. I dont
think my personality is suited to the life of an actor. When it is your band it is your
show. I did a tour of Romeo and Juliet where I played Romeo, it was fun in some
ways but the whole day is dominated by the play you have to do that night because
it was a 3 hour production so you kind of feel life is not your own. I was round a
friends house the other day and this couple had just had a baby and he has got a 5
year contract on a TV thing that is filmed abroad, so 7 months of the year he has to
be out of the country, I think you have to have the right kind of personality. Dont
get me wrong I have done acting jobs which I have really liked; doing Sammy and
Rosie was absolutely fantastic so was Romeo but I could do that then as I was not
settled, I did not have kids or anything like that. I do really love acting but I like
that thing where you create your own work, I am more in to writing and being in
stuff I have written.
So is there a play/film you yearn to be in at the moment? Yes there is this one
called Return to Vegas it is something I have written, at the moment I have
adapted the script for a stage musical and there will be an album which comes with
it . Hopefully it will all be ready by 2017 but a lot of the songs I am playing live at
the moment will be part of the soundtrack.
She Drives Me Crazy was a number one in the USA and across the world but not in
the UK? I would rather have a number one in USA in a way, back then it felt more
of an accomplishment, because it is a bigger country and people used to say to
break America would be amazing. We did very well in the States we had a number
1 album too.
When was the last time your toured the UK? I did a little mini tour in September
2014
Is there anyone you would like to work with? Not really, although I once did a duet
on French TV with Lionel Richie which was fun. I am always open to things but it
would have to come from the song.
What would you say has been the highlight of your career so far? One night that
was fun we did a performance on the Wogan Show and then caught the plane up
to Glasgow and performed at Barrowlands the same night.
It highlights what can happen when an intended joke has severe repercussions.
Here are the first fives cases discussed. Look out for next months article for the
other four and what actions employers should take.
Employer not liable after employee set fire to colleague during horseplay
1. Graham v Commercial Bodyworks Ltd (Court of Appeal)
In this 2015 decision, the Court of Appeal held that an employer could not be held
liable for injuries caused by a prank gone wrong in the workplace after one
employee set fire to another during horseplay.
Two workers in a bodywork repair shop were joking about when one set fire to the
other with a cigarette lighter and flammable thinning agent, causing serious injury.
The worker who was injured claimed that his employer was liable to compensate
him for the injuries caused by the perpetrators actions.
The Court of Appeal reviewed the case law on employer liability for employees
acts of violence and concluded that frolicsome but reckless conduct cannot
normally be said to have occurred in the course of employment, meaning that it
was inappropriate to impose liability on the employer in this case.
Workplace pranks: a history of violence
It has long been established that employers can avoid liability for practical jokes in
the workplace if they can show that the jokers were acting on a frolic of their
own, for example by doing something totally unconnected with work.
Two contrasting cases from the 1950s show this principle in action:
2. Smith v Crossley Brothers (Court of Appeal, 1951)
As a practical joke, two mechanics removed a colleagues trousers and inserted a
rubber hose into his bottom. The rubber hose expelled compressed air, causing
serious injury.
The Court of Appeal found that the employer was not liable for the resulting
injuries as there was nothing that the employer could have done to prevent such
unpredictable actions.
3. Hudson v Ridge Manufacturing Co Ltd (Court of Assizes, 1957)
An employees wrist was broken when a colleague wrestled him to the ground as a
practical joke. The colleague was a known practical joker and had a reputation for
playing pranks. The employer had been aware of this for years.
The employer was found to be liable for the injury because it was obvious that the
joker posed a danger, but it had done nothing to prevent him from committing
further pranks.
Male manager fairly dismissed for attempting to touch a colleagues testicles
and bottom
4. Charlton v Orange PCS Ltd (employment tribunal)
A sales manager at a call centre was accused of attempting to touch a colleagues
testicles and bottom. The two men had a history of conflict.
The sales manager denied that he had done this, although he did admit that he
liked pranks and could not rule out that he had made a rugby gesture.
The manager was dismissed and claimed unfair dismissal. The employment tribunal
rejected his claim, deciding that the employer had a genuine belief based on
reasonable grounds that the claimant was guilty of the alleged misconduct, and had
carried out a fair disciplinary procedure.
Managers wheelie-bin prank recorded on CCTV
5. Adamson v Mitchells & Butlers Retail Ltd (employment tribunal)
An employees workplace prank can undermine the employers trust and
confidence in him or her, and warrant summary dismissal, as this case
demonstrates.
A large company dismissed the pub manager of one of its flagship venues. He was
recorded on CCTV being pushed around in a wheelie bin by a female colleague. He
fell out of the bin and embraced the woman. Damage to a door was later
discovered.
The employment tribunal concluded that, although the manager was apologetic
and admitted that getting into the wheelie bin was a ridiculously stupid act, his
dismissal was fair because the employer had lost all trust and confidence in him to
manage the premises on its behalf.
If you think that you have a similar situation within your workplace, speak to
Consensus HR for professional, unbiased HR advice. Contact Matthew on 01462
621243 or email him via matthew@consensushr.com.
10
If you are married, your spouse would be entitled to the first 250,000 of
what you own at your death. Anything more than 250,000 will be divided
into two halves - one half still going to your spouse, and the other half being
shared equally between your children.
If you are in a long term relationship, but are not married, your partner will
get nothing
if you are separated from your spouse, but still married, you spouse will still
be entitled to their share of your assets
other family members or close friends will receive nothing (unless you have
no spouse or children, and then your assets go the next of kin according
to the Rules)
So the Rules of Intestacy do not provide for each persons personal circumstances
and individual wishes - but your Will can. As it is a personal document, designed
specifically for you, your Will can explain your funeral wishes; clarify who will
organise and deal with your estate; state who will inherit your personal belongings;
and even set out who will look after your children.
So, whether you want to provide for your unmarried partner, stepchildren, other
relatives, close friends, charities or even a pet, it is really important to prepare a
Will.
If you want more information on making a will, please contact our Jeff Dunne on
01992 631461 or email him at jeff.dunne@curwens.co.uk
Curwens LLP is your local firm of solicitors offering a wide range of legal advice
based in Royston, Hoddesdon, and Enfield. www.curwens.co.uk
11
What is Mediation?
Many people in life find themselves grappling with a problem or issue with another
person that they find hard to resolve no matter how hard they try. This may be
because the other person is very black and white in their thinking and cannot
shift their position, or it may be that both parties find it hard to se through the
noise of the problem. It is at times like this that Mediation can help.
Mediation is a method of alternative dispute resolution. It is a voluntary process
and will only take place if both parties agree. It is an extremely effective way of
choosing to resolve disputes without the need to go to court and incur the
enormous expense entailed, and risking the uncertain outcome. Mediation involves
an independent third party - a trained mediator - who helps both sides come to an
acceptable agreement.
Mediations are completely confidential and the information discussed within them
cannot be used in Court or in any other legal action issued at a later date.
Mediation is a flexible process that can be used to settle disputes in a whole range
of situations such as:
Divorce settlements
Consumer disputes
Workplace disputes
Contract disputes
Family disputes
Neighbourhood disputes
The role of the mediator is to help parties reach a solution to their problem and to
arrive at an outcome that both parties can live with and accept. Mediators are
neutral and do not make judgement on the issue or give advice. They simply open
up effective communication and understanding between the parties so that they
can reflect on why the dispute has happened and how it can be resolved. The focus
of a mediation meeting is to reach a common sense settlement agreeable to both
parties. There are no winners or losers
If parties are unable to reach agreement, they can still go to court. Details about
what went on at the mediation however will not be disclosed or used at a court
hearing.
Both parties share the cost of mediation, which will depend on the value and
complexity of the claim.
12
Clients often leave mediation with a much clearer understanding of the issues that
led to the dispute and often report closure of the emotions they have experienced.
Most people are relieved not to go to court.
Mediation at LCC
If you feel that mediation could help you, please contact Joanna Coker who is an
Accredited Mediator on joanna.coker@localcounsellingcentre.co.uk or contact
Kathy Freemanthe Practice Manger on 01462 674671 option 2 or
hello@localcounsellingcentre.co.uk
13
14
15
Today is the day that Pongo has been waiting for that's right, it's his birthday!
He's been dropping hints to his friends all year, so is looking forward to a fantastic
party ... but the trouble is, nobody seems to remember!
16
Molly-Moo the Cow is making a mess baking, Sheena the Sheep is rehearsing with
her band, Sally the Scarecrow is in the middle of decorating and even Marty
MacDonald is tied up with his parcels - whatever can they be up to?
Come and help make Pongo's Party a day to remember, by joining in a show full of
fun, songs and laughter - take part in the towns biggest ever game of pass the
parcel and join the largest children's band!
"Pongo's Party" is fully interactive and set in a vibrant, colourful & imaginative
farmyard with loveable puppet characters. It is particularly suitable for ages 3-7
and combines some of the countrys best talent in childrens entertainment. We
also use Makaton signing with singing so everyone can join in! www.makaton.org
To be entered into the prize draw with the chance of winning a family ticket
to a performance of your choice, just answer the following question:
Justin Fletcher recorded the voice for which puppet character?
a: Porky the Pig
b: Peppa Pig
c: Pongo the Pig
Send your answer by email with your name, address, email address and daytime
phone number and which venue you would like to see Pongos party
to: thesticks9@gmail.com
Closing date: Noon on Friday 10th July.
First 2 correct entries drawn will win a pair of tickets to the venue of their choice.
There is no cash alternative, usual publication rules apply and the Editor's decision
is final.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
www.the-sticks.co.uk
To advertise your event, show, restaurant or business on our website or in our
digital magazine. Prices from 10 per month
17
Sitting Correctly
Sitting is the new cancer according to Tim Cook the chief executive of Apple, its
a timely warning to coincide with the marketing of the new Apple Watch which
costs around 300 the watch monitors the users movements and sends a small
pulse reminding them to get up and move ten minutes before each hour is up. His
choice of expression was met with some disdain but its not just marketing spin,
The Department of Health call sitting a silent killer and say its as dangerous as
smoking, its thought that if you sit for more than 8 hours a day it can increase
your risk of heart disease, diabetes and early death by 15 per cent.
Hands up here! Guilty your honour!, I sit hunched at a computer, or using a
smartphone, I sit in the car and on the train, at work and again at night, I do take
regular breaks, go for walks and do some exercise but when I add up the work time
which has to be at a desk where my computer is, I realised something had to
change.
Fortunately I met Mike Dilke from Relaxback UK based in Hertfordshire. He is a
civil engineer who became fascinated by the body as structure and so he
researched into the huge rise in back problems, he believes this is, at least in part,
down to poor posture and sitting for too long in the wrong position. He now sells
The Back App chair an ergonomic chair which forces you to sit in the correct
position by providing a motion which enables you to remain active while seated - it
feels not dissimilar to riding a horse slowly!
Whats really changed for me is the installation of
an adjustable height desk, seems so simple but it
means I can make phone calls, use the computer
and do everything standing.
For my office
companions (the rest of the family) who dont
want to stand they can simply press the button on
the side of the wooden desk and it slowly lowers
back down. Simple!
When Im feeling sorry for myself and wanting a
bit of pampering at the end of the day I will
legitimately be able to say Im exhausted, Ive
been on my feet all day No doubt I hear will
hear the chorus you chose it!
Give Mike a call to arrange a demo on 07979 248286
www.relaxbackuk.com
18
19
The hot hatch was originally unveiled at the Detroit motor show in 2014 and stays
largely true to the concept car. Externally, it features a large apron with large
cooling air inlet, chunky body kit with distinctive side sills and a rear end complete
with John Cooper Works rear spoiler. It sits on 18-inch alloy wheels that are
reminiscent of the stripped-out, limited-edition MINI GP model, and full LED head
lamps, wheel arch surround with distinctive contours. A red accent line is included
in the grille.
Thanks to that impressive uplift in power, when mated to the new six-speed
Steptronic automatic gearbox, the MINI JCW can demolish the 0-62mph sprint in
just 6.1-seconds, with the six-speed manual version trailing by one-fifth of a
second at 6.3-seconds. This is enough to beat the Fiesta ST and recently launched
Vauxhall Corsa VXR. That acceleration is possible thanks to the 236lb ft of torque
available from between 1,250 and 4,800rpm up 23% on the outgoing model.
Accelerating from 50-75mph an ideal measure or overtaking ability has been
improved by 10% over the previous model, reducing the time to 5.6 seconds. Top
speed is rated at 153mph.
The 1,330 automatic gearbox is also the most efficient option too, returning
49.6mpg whilst emitting just 133g/km. Very respectable. The manual boxed
20
version can only manage 42.2mpg whilst emissions climb considerably to 155g/km.
Both measures are approximately 20% improved.
The impressive efficiency have been created by the
introduction of MINIMALISM technologies, as diverse as
stop-start, gear-shift indicator, energy recovery, reduced
power usage by the coolant and fuel pump and an
electromechanical power steering system with Servotronic.
The John Cooper Works edition has exclusive use of a highperformance exhaust system which has been created to
help make the new MINI JCW sound like a sports car when
accelerating. Of more substance is its ability to boost power
to help it keep up with rivals like the Renaultsport Mgane
and Golf GTi.
Like the regular MINI, the JCW offers a huge range of customisation options to help
ensure that owners can tailor their cars to their personal preferences and help it
stand out from the crowd. A Chili Red roof colour is available, for example, as is a
Harmon Kardon sound system.
www.first4auto.com
www.facebook.com/first4auto
Twitter: @first4auto
21
Picture: Toby with Sophia" - The Cheese Plates new delivery vehicle
22
Egg Week
23
If you havent experienced the joys of keeping chickens I highly recommend it.
They may be our nearest relation to T-Rex, and not very cuddly but are very funny
and can be great pets.
I had a chicken that used to climb the stairs to my office every day and sit on the
chair next to me watching me work. Unfortunately, despite my numerous warnings,
she eventually got taken by a fox (the risk of complete free range), but had a much
better life that the average battery hen.
Chickens are also a fantastic way to help children understand where our food
comes from, and I believe every school should have some, preferably in an
allotment to also learn about fruit and veg.
The Thrifty Cook has been at it again and we cant wait to try her delicious vanilla
ice cream, the perfect way to use up left over eggs.
A delicious, rich vanilla ice cream recipe which uses egg yolks, cream, sugar and
vanilla. So different from most commercial ice creams which arent even made
with cream! An amazing old fashioned flavour how ice cream used to be. Makes
pint/900ml
Ingredients
6 large free range egg yolks or 8 smaller ones
6 oz/175g golden caster sugar
1 vanilla pod or 2 tsp vanilla extract
pint/420ml double cream
pint/420ml full fat milk
Method
Chop the vanilla pod into small pieces.
Put the milk, cream, sugar and vanilla in a large heavy based saucepan. Heat
through until almost boiling, stirring regularly.
Beat the egg yolks until thick and pale.
Pour the hot milk through a sieve onto the egg yolks, stirring constantly.
Return to the pan and stir continuously over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes
until the custard thickens a little.
Pour the mixture into a pyrex or metal bowl, cover with clingfilm and leave to
cool.
When cold, freeze.
Before serving, leave the ice cream in the fridge for about 20 minutes to soften a
little.
24
25
Herts Listings
Aldenham
26
A Laugh a Minute with Nicholas Parsons Sat 6 Jun Nicholas Parsons demonstrates his
unique ability as a solo performer and
raconteur in this anecdotal entertainment
based on his life working in the various media
of an unpredictable and always fascinating
profession. Hertford Theatre, The Wash,
Hertford SG13 1PS
27
28
Hertford Choral Society Summer Concert Sat 20 Jun Voices & Accordions; HCS together
with the Quintet Accordions5 explore the
music of Bizet, Dove, Trenet, Mozart, and
more.All Saints Church, Hertford SG13 8AE
29
alongside
entertainment
from
local
dance/theatre groups. The event is held in
the pedestrianised area of the town centre
and free to visitors so bring along the family.
High Street, Waltham Cross EN8 7AN
Marsworth Steam & Classic Vehicle Rally Sun 21 Jun Treat Dad to a fun day out on
Fathers Day! A great day out for all the
family. Startop Farm, Marsworth HP23 4LL
St Albans Custom, Classic and Food Show Sun 21 Jun We are launching a new kind of
show, 2 for the price of just one,, now thats
value for money. With live music, fantastic
hot foods to choose from, craft stalls, vintage
stalls, shopping stalls, and auto jumble.
Oaklands College Campus, Hatfield Rd, St.
Albans AL4 0JA
30
Jackies Drop In Funday - Sat 27 Jun 11am 5pm. Pirates and Princesses, with the
legendary Soul Man, fun, games and
entertainment for the entire family. Free
entertainment throughout the day. Jackies
Drop-In Centre, St Micheals House, Norton
Way South, Letchworth SG6 1NY
31
Beds Listings
32
plants.
Edible
Ornamentals,
Cherwood
Nurseries, Blue Bells, Chawston MK44 3BL
Airshow Featuring The Light Aircraft
Association (LAA) - Sun 7 Jun Enjoy live
music as aircraft from the Collection and LAA
members aircraft take to the skies. Our
annual airshow brings together aircraft from
the Collection that are sponsored by the Light
Aircraft Association such as the Boxkite. The
Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden SG18
8EP
Carlton Open Gardens & Scarecrow FestivalSun 7 Jun 1.30-5.30pm come and wander
round the beautiful village of Carlton, have a
browse around the open gardens and try and
spot the scarecrows! Teas and cakes served at
Carlton Village Hall. Adults 4, under 12s
free. Carlton Village Hall, The Moor, Carlton
MK43 7JR
33
Riseley Lower School PTA Summer Fair Riseley-by-the Sea - Sat 20 Jun This years
theme is Riseley by the Sea. There will be
something for all the family including live
entertainment, Childrens games. Riseley
Lower School, Church Lane, Riseley MK44 1EL
34
Bucks Listings
Lutes, Lyres and Ukeleles - til Sat 20 Jun
Spectacular display of historical musical
instruments; ukuleles, guitars, lutes, harps
and hurdy-gurdys, created by musician and
instrument maker, Zachary Taylor. Free
entry. Buckinghamshire County Museum and
Roald Dahl Childrens Gallery, Church Street,
Aylesbury HP20 2QP
35
Stony Arts Caper - Family Arts Workshop Sat 6 Jun 10am-4pm at York House Centre,
Stony Stratford: Making capering creatures
from the mythological George & the Dragon
story out of cardboard! York House Centre,
London Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1JQ
Vale Harvest Local Food Market - Sat 6 Jun
A market featuring a range of award-winning
produce from across the Aylesbury Vale. With
over 20 stalls each month selling a wide
variety of hot and cold food and drink. Banks
Park, Haddenham Village Hall, Haddenham
HP17 8EE
The Taming of the Shrew Open Air Theatre Wed 10 to Sat 13, Wed 17 to Sat 20 Jun
Performed in the glorious parkland setting by
the Chiltern Shakespeare Company. Although
the actors are in the open air, the
auditoriums raked seating is protected by a
tented awning. Hall Barn, Old Beaconsfield
HP9 2SG
36
West Wycombe Park, Village and Hill Summer Solstice Big Camp- Sat 20 & Sun 21
Jun A family night out under canvas!
Storytelling, campfires, star gazing. Wake up
to the earliest dawn chorus of the year!
Breakfast is included as well as free entry to
the Fathers Day Outdoor Show on Sunday.
West Wycombe Park, Village and Hill, West
Wycombe HP14 3AJ
The Power of Two - Sat 20 Jun Enjoy a
concert featuring a musical pot pourri from
the duo Farandol featuring Zachary Taylor
and Alan Hamilton. Tickets 7.50. Call 01296
331441 to book. Buckinghamshire County
Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP
Northern Ballet: Elves and the ShoemakerSat 20 Jun Following the fantastic sell-out
success of Ugly Duckling and Three Little Pigs,
Northern Ballet is delighted to announce our
latest ballet for children, Elves & the
Shoemaker. Waterside Theatre, Exchange
Street, Aylesbury HP20 1UG
37
The Waddesdon Archive at Windmill Hill Thu 25 Jun Join Head Archivist Catherine
Taylor, to learn more about the lives of those
who lived and worked on the Waddesdon
estate or at the Manor. We will use staff and
tenants records from the archive to explore
life behind the scenes at Waddesdon.
Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon HP18 0JH
38
39
40