Community Board

 

To celebrate going back to the 20's Jiveswing.com are running a special 1920's Charleston workshop on Saturday 4th January 5.30pm - 6.30pm. The Barn Studio, Watford.

The workshop will take you through some of the history of the Charleston with some classic moves combining in a solo routine with some added partner fun!!

Tickets only £10 in advance or class pass can be used - all bookings must be made in advance in class or online www.jiveswing.com/booking

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Hosted by Training4paws Puppy Classes and Dog Training Watford.  This 4 week puppy course starts Thursday 9th January from St Mary's church, Waford at 6:30pm - 9.30pm.

Cost is £80 for 4 week course.

Pups need to have had their injections and still be under 20 weeks at the start of the course.  Please call Jane to book 07914 909280 or email jane.lovatt@hotmail.co.uk

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Join Gambado Watford for their exclusive FREE SEND & Autism friendly session on Friday 10th January from 6.45pm.

Play on their exciting play frames and have unlimited turns on their carousel and dodgems. Tickets are free for guests with SENDs and parents.

Sibling tickets can be purchased for an additional £5

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A 45-minute Nordic Walking session that will help you understand just how beneficial Nordic walking can be and how it is far more than just walking with poles!! Get a taste of how light you will feel on your feet, how the whole body is mobilised and why you need to take the time to learn the technique.

Meeting at Leavesden Woodlands Cafe  on Saturday 11th January from 2pm - 2.45pm.  Pole hire is included. 

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The first Bumps and Babies session of 2020 is on Monday 13th January from 12.30pm - 2.30pm. Hosted by NCT Watford.

Come for a chat and a hot drink with other parents. This month Lydia from Water Babies will be along to tell you all about the benefits and tips about taking your baby swimming so if that's something you plan to do in the New Year then do come along.

All welcome with bumps and babies up to 18 months - you don't need to be an NCT member to come along to any of their events.

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Peter Taylor will be hosting a Drop In Surgery on Friday 17th January at 1pm at the Mencap Cafe at Watford Central Library.  If you've got an issue you think he could help with, please drop by.

The Cafe in the Library is an exciting way for Watford Mencap to provide support and services to people with a learning disability and their families in Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere.

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Bring your confidential waste to Humphreys during shredathon week,  and have it shredded for a donation to these two great causes; W3RT Community fund and Watford Workshop.

Open weekdays 8am - 4pm - Saturday 10am - 2pm

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Tuesday 21st January at 2:30pm, Peter Taylor will be joined by Watford Chief Inspector Matt Phillips for a Facebook Live session on crime and policing in our town: https://www.facebook.com/petertaylorwatford/

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Visit the Leavesden HIVE, located within Leavesden Country Park this January to see memorabilia and artefacts, and learn more about the history of the hospital that once stood in the park.

The next open session is Wednesday 22nd January from 10am - 3pm.

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Come and master the power of Fitness Nordic Walking poles and gain your FREEDOM PASSPORT on Thursday 23rd January from 10am - 11.30am in Cassiobury Park.

Nordic Walking is a full-body workout that provides fast results. It is essential you learn the correct technique first and their award-winning courses are a structured teaching program, suitable for all levels.

This enables you to join not only our regular group walks but also those of any other NWUK instructor in the country. Your Passport also entitles you to FREE membership with Nordic Walking UK for the first year.

It covers the following in a 90 minute session:

Gear 1: The fundamentals of Nordic Walking technique. Mastering the arm swing, upper body engagement and pole plant angle.

Gear 2: Gaining propulsion from the pole and toe push, adapting pole position for hills and tailoring technique to your fitness, mobility and personal goals.

For further details and to book a place: https://exercise-anywhere.com/event/144113-LEARN-TO-NORDIC-WALK-SESSION-1-(WATFORD-BOROUGH-COUNCIL)?fbclid=IwAR3KNJtzn_m2OhkHrs3XQMXgqBR8cGtz0CTAPBNS1fqSDn9iA7HtgHyjOI4

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The NAWT would love you to join them throughout January (January 1st - 31st 11am - 4pm) to either donate your unwanted gifts or come and swap it for something in their onsite charity shop.

Please park at the Mercure hotel where parking is free but please ensure you register your car in the Mercure Reception when you arrive, in order to avoid a parking fine.

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Sunday walk and talk are free and are informal, relaxed, inclusive and open to all, to create and provide a regular chance for people to meet others in the community in a different way; on a walk in nature.   The next walk is Sunday 26th January and as always they meet at the Cha Cafe at 1pm for about a two hour walk.

At these community events, you'll find yourself in a friendly atmosphere with other local people.  There are no attendance fees or barriers, please just book in to attend, come along and join them.  Why not bring a friend too?

You can pace yourself, stick around for half an hour or go all the way.  It is suggested you have a brunch or an early lunch, or take snacks and water with you.

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The North Watford Library is now CLOSED for essential electrical maintenance works from until Friday 31st January.

Items can be returned to any Hertfordshire library, renewed online at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries or by calling 0300 123 4049.

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This Stay and play group, run by volunteers takes place at the Cassiobury Hub on Monday 3rd February from 10am - 11.30pm.

Free play time activities for babies and toddlers. No booking required, just turn up!  However there is a suggested donation of £1 to help pay for resources.

Adults must supervise their children during the session.

 

Trackplay is a fun and entertaining time for kids who love trains, on Sunday 16th February at Watford Leisure Centre - Central. With over 500 feet of Track and over 100 Thomas and his friends trains to choose from.  Kids will be raving about the experience for a long time.

Book a time slot to suit and then on the day sit back and enjoy a hot drink whilst the kids all have fun with trains.

https://www.trackplay.co.uk/events/watford?fbclid=IwAR26cwGacHbV2e_KIwn_YLJCsjdi0cWgi7JnrZfFIIJbkd6nFFdhDEPI3VM

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Jack & the Beanstalk at Cassiobury Hub - Tuesday 18th February from 1.30pm - 2.30pm.  Come and listen to the story of Jack & the Beanstalk, plus game and planting a seed to take home.

Activities suitable for 2-5 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult.  Meet at the Hub's education space at 1:30pm.

Booking is required use this link to book your child's place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/storytime-adventure-jack-the-beanstalk-pm-session-tickets-90299874355?fbclid=IwAR1vZQzrFl6qIHju_GjHkZTEh28_bzGuphDYnFaNXKHzL5Dnoe0PolzU_88

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LEGO Alive! is at Bushey Library on Wednesday 19th February 2pm until 5pm.  Bring LEGO to life at the library with Code robotics with LEGO Boost and enter the world of virtual reality and augmented reality.

 

Teen Reading Group is held at North Watford Library Wednesday 19th February from 5pm - 6pm. 

If you enjoy a book and want to meet others that have the same passion for reading come along to this Teen Reading Group, suitable for ages 13-16 years.

This is a free walk-in session on the third Wednesday of the month between 5-6pm, where you can discuss with others, or simply just read.

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If you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids this half term, then look no further than Intu Watford!

From 17th to 23rd February, children can take part in a series of fun and FREE activities including face painting and a treasure hunt out on the mall.

Whether they want to be a superhero or a butterfly, a tiger or a unicorn, Intu Watford’s talented face painters have got them covered on Friday 21st February.

To take part in the treasure hunt, just head to the customer information desk to collect an activity sheet and then set off on your way. At the end, your little ones can collect a small prize for their efforts!

 

Learn how to identify trees in their winter state on Thursday 20th February from 10am - 3.30pm in Cassiobury Park.

At this Winter Tree Identification Workshop you will spend the morning in the classroom, learning to identify trees using bud and twig characteristics. Then you will work through the various keys available and practice on a collection of cuttings. In the afternoon, take a walk around Cassiobury Park to identify the trees in the park and the nature reserve.

Suitable for beginners - adults and older children welcome.  Lunch can be purchased in the cafe or bring your own.

£7 per person. Booking essential as spaces are limited: https://www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk/events/2020-02-20-winter-tree-identification-workshop?fbclid=IwAR371iRbXeMqonr-kqPrUtonDMf0phLo30yBS_qe8I20x0j4ykbzEUV92Bk

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Under the Virtual Sea is at Abbots Langley Library Friday 21st February 2pm to 5pm.

Explore the sights & sounds of an underwater world.  Plus code with Cubetto the robot through an undersea adventure.

Drop in - no tickets or booking required.  Free but donations welcome.

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The Random Cafe is at the Meriden Community Centre on Saturday 22nd February.  You can enjoy a coffee or tea, cake and other snacks whilst having a chat, and then do some shopping at their food boutique table from 1pm - 3pm. 

The Random Cafe is a pop up cafe and part of The Real Junk Food Project.  Diverting food destined to be thrown away.  All items are available on a pay as you feel basis.

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Why not go along and get your car cleaned at Watford Fire Station and help them raise money for a great cause. Sunday 23rd February from 11am - 2pm.

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Cassiobury Stay and Play is run by volunteers and offers free play time activities for babies and toddlers. It takes place in the education room at the Cassiobury Hub (above the spash pools), on Monday 24th February from 10am - 11.30am.

There is a cafe on site if you wish to purchase tea, coffee or cake or you can bring your own child snacks.

Cost is free, but there is a suggested donation of £1 to help pay for resources.

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Peter Taylor - Mayor ofWatford will be talking about the exciting number of cycle-related projects Watford Council have planned at this upcoming Watford Cycle Forum on Wednesday 26th February at West Herts College Business Lounge, from 6.30 to 8pm.

If you are interested in attending please contact kathryn.robson@watford.gov.uk or call 01923 278077.

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Join the Random Cafe for a relaxing cruise down the Grand Union Canal on Saturday 29th February from 11.30am - 4pm.

Tickets include a fish and chip supper, soft drinks and tea and coffee. You can just sit and relax or have a go at steering the boat or operating the locks. £20 per person and places are limited.

Meet at the Waterways Experience, Nash Mills Recreation Centre, Red Lion Lane, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 9TE.

To book contact them at: randomcafeuk@gmail.com

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A reminder that Watford Football Club have an evening home match this Saturday 29th February against Liverpool (Kick off 5.30pm).

Parking restrictions will be enforced and traffic delays can be expected before and after the match.

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Ever wanted to know how to shoot food photography like the pros. Come and join in at this workshop, where they will show you the best techniques on how to make food appealing when taking photos.

This workshop is taking place on Friday 6th March from 12 noon - 2pm in the Cassiobury Park Hub which is part of the paddling pool complex.

The first half an hour they will talk about the rules and show you examples. You will receive a guide sheet after which you will be shooting from a scene they have set up for you to practice.

You will then have an hour and a half to take photos of the scene and ask any photography / marketing related questions.

 

Bumps and babies is Hosted by NCT Watford. Come for a chat with other parents on Monday 9th March from 12.30pm - 2.30pm. There will be toys for the babies to play with plus hot drinks and cakes.  Your first drink is on them but there is also a selection of cakes available to buy.

This month they offer a pre-mothers Day pampering session from reflexologist Louise plus hopefully other therapies.
All welcome with bumps or babies up to 18 months - you don't need to be an NCT member to attend.

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Watford Borough Council is working in partnership with Watford & Three Rivers Trust to invite Watford residents to the next Pensioners’ Forum on Tuesday 10th March from 2pm - 4pm at Watford Town Hall.

It is free to attend the Pensioners' Forum and it is a great way for residents in Watford to meet new people and chat over tea and cake.

For more information, email watfordpf@w3rt.org or call 01923 216967.  Visit www.watford.gov.uk/forum for a video of the last Pensioners' Forum in November 2019.

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This Photographic Early Spring Nature Walk is a guided walk through Cassiobury Nature Reserve led by Andrew Lalchan (local photographer), on Wednesday 11th March from 11am - 1.30pm. You can explore spring in the woods & nature reserve.

This walk offers opportunities to take nature photos and Andrew will be on hand to provide advise. As it's likely to be muddy in the park, strong footwear is needed.

They will meet at the Cassiobury Park Hub which is near the paddling pool.

Cost: £5, click through on the ticket link which goes to Meetup, you can then pay using Paypal (£4) or you can pay cash £5 on the day.  https://www.meetup.com/Watford-Photography-Meetup/events/266917855?fbclid=IwAR0DECKG_XW2vutVH9wCKnJ4Nhn1AkseReZYaGXxvexv8SR4c_ZYQRqCGvg

If paying by cash email info@andrewlalchan.co.uk to let me know you are coming.

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Lego Club at North Watford Library is being held on Wednesday 11th March from 4pm - 5pm. Come and join them in the Children's Library for some lego fun.

£2 a child per session.  Suitable for ages 5-11 and can be pre-booked in the Library.  Limited spaces available.

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Join B&M Care on Friday 13th March from 10.30am at Montrose, for their Memory Cafe hosted in partnership with Alzheimer's Society.

Aimed at people who live with dementia, as well as their families & carers, this unique cafe is a great way to share experiences and stories, and to get help, advice & support from the home's specialist dementia team.  No need to book - just turn up!

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Write, draw & model in 3 dimensions at North Watford Library. Saturday 14th March 10am to 2pm. Plus free fun for children and adults with Virtual Reality, Code a Cubetto and play with LEGO Robotics.

Book a place on one of the workshops - Tickets £3.00 per child available from the library (for ages 6+ - under 8s must be accompanied by an adult) https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/services/libraries-and-archives/events-and-things-to-do/north-watford/3d-pens.aspx

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 Cancelled

Watford Football Club have a home match on Saturday 14th March against Leicester City (Kick off  12.30pm).   Parking restrictions will be enforced and traffic delays can be expected before and after the match.

The police will close of the section of Vicarage Road, between the junction with Fearnley Street and the junction with Harwoods Road.  This will be for a period before and after the match.

Further information about fixtures and other activities at Vicarage Road Stadium, can be found on the Watford Football Club website

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This bird watching walk in Cassiobury Park is on Sunday 15th March from 9am - 1pm.  A spring introduction to the sights and sounds of birds in the Park with the Friends of Cassiobury Park.

Meet outside the Hub (above the splash pools) on the patio, close to Daisy's Cafe at 9am.  Sorry no dogs allowed and remember to bring binoculars if you have any.

Limited places, booking essential. Tickets on sale from 1st March: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/birdwatching-walk-at-cassiobury-park-registration-91760324601

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Toddler Tales is the perfect step on from Baby Rhyme Time (held on Friday afternoons), with a mix of lively stories and rhymes for you and your child to join in with.  Held at North Watford Library every Tuesday from 11am - 11.30am.

Sharing stories and rhymes with your child helps to develop their listening skills, language and imagination.  Enjoy the stories together by sitting with your child during the session and then spend time browsing and borrowing from their extensive range of picture books.

The stories chosen are aimed at toddlers and pre-school children but babies are welcome too.

This activity is free; however they do welcome a voluntary contribution of £1 per family.

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Join the rest of the country on Thursday at 8pm in a massive applause for the NHS!

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Creative learning are offering an online digital skills course so if you're wondering how to pass the time while at home, this could be the course for you.

The 12 hour course is completely FREE and can be accessed from home www.creative-learning.org.uk or
email learning@communityactiondacorum.org.uk

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Hertfordshire Adult & Family Learning Services (HAFLS), have a range of online courses starting in April! and they're all totally FREE.  Visit their website to browse the full range! www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/haflscourses

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You have a week to enter their Online Pet Photo competition. The NAWT want to see photos of your pets in their forever home!

Enter a photo of your pet in to one of the categories below for a chance to win a rosette, certificate and a year’s sponsorship of an animal area (kennel or cattery) worth £60.

Categories:

Forever Friends – A photo of your pet/s happy with their friends cuddled up or chilling out.

Caught in the Act – A photo of your pet causing trouble and making mischief.

 

 

Supermarket chains have revealed new rules and opening times for shoppers across the country. All supermarkets reduced their opening hours when the Coronavirus lock-down was introduced last month.

Asda which used to open 24 hours, started closing at 8pm. Stores will now be open Monday - Saturday 8am - 10pm. Normal Sunday trading hours will remain the same.

Aldi opening hours have now been extended until 10pm at almost all stores.

 

The Watford FC Lockdown Quiz will be arriving this Saturday, 25th April at 8pm.  Brush up on your Watford FC knowledge.

There will be trivia, pictures, music and even a video round on all things Watford FC.

This will be live on the Hornets Nest Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hornetsnestwfc/

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Do you know someone on the COVID-19 Ward at Watford General?  Fr Peter is the chaplain to this ward and is willing to pass on any personal messages to those who are on the ward from family and friends.

They do not have to be parishioners or Catholic. It does not need to be a blessing or prayerful.

Please call the parish if you'd like Fr Peter to do this for you: 01923 223175

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Stuffed toys are being placed in windows to give children a fun and safe activity while walking around their neighbourhood with parents once a day.

The game is a way to entertain children in isolation and the psychological boost is real; uniting neighbourhoods and giving children an exciting, social-distancing-safe scavenger hunt activity during the lock-down.

Play-dates might be on hold, but seeking out the stuffed animals is the new bearable activity – Join the hunt!

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On Friday 8 May 2020 Britain will be commemorating the 75th anniversary of VE Day when the guns fell silent at the end of war in Europe.

You can make your own special VE Day 75 ‘Great British Bunting’ to display in your window at home. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4TrqYDyf4PMdLypxzyTwGDg/great-british-bunting

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The Royal Air Force, London and National Museum of the Royal Navy have put together a full programme for their Virtual VE Day 75 Festival which is now available!

Join them for three days of talks, tales and tutorials as they commemorate the end of the War in Europe on 7th, 8th & 9th May.

http://www.nam.ac.uk/series/ve-day-75?

You can download the full programme here: http://www.nam.ac.uk/sites/default/files/attachments/VE-Day-75-Digital-Programme-FINAL.pdf

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Here you’ll find home workouts and training plans that gives you hints and tips on how stay fit and healthy at home. This will include family activity and home workouts to complement your exercise regime and activities with a healthy lifestyle. https://www.everyoneactive.com/content-hub/home-workouts/

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Active Watford and Three Rivers Online self referral scheme. Each participant will receive;

Online or telephone consultation.

Suggested suitable activities which they will be able to do at home.

Text and email support for 12 weeks.

Contact alison.goodchild@watfordfc.com or call 07710 096 398

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Some ideas to do with children whilst your stuck at home

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The garden centre have just made a range of summer bedding now available to purchase on their Webshop! along with a selection of houseplants available to order online for local delivery!

They aim to make contactless delivery within 7-10 days. Deliveries to local HA and WD postcodes only.

Once payment has been made, delivery will be made within 7-10 days. Their driver will leave your items at the front door and take a picture as proof of delivery: https://www.carpenders.co.uk/

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The Chelsea Flower Show is moving online. Every morning of the virtual event between 18th and 23rd May, a leading designer, florist or gardening personality will provide a tour of their own private gardens.

Daily "school gardening clubs" will take place to provide activities for families to garden together, while "potting bench" demonstrations will show techniques for growing and maintaining plants.

Lunchtimes will see RHS advisers being joined by a special guest for an interactive Q&A session, while a special series of programmes celebrating the show will be broadcast on BBC One and Two throughout the week.

UK growers who would have been at the event will also provide behind-the-scenes tours of their nurseries and some will replicate the displays they would have had in the Great Pavilion.

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My Local News is a monthly magazine and you can keep up to date with all the local news in your area by clicking on the following link: https://www.mynewsmag.co.uk/

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Everyone's favourite astronaut, Tim Peake, will be live from his home on Earth, Tuesday 26th May at 5.30pm.

As someone who has spent 186 days working on the International Space Station, Tim will share his very valuable tips on dealing with lockdown life.

Tune in to ask your questions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3B2UqlCXCOA&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR1SWu_UdPQllVlAyHUW5mtzuwuC2yLnhSjjfS-vJ4cDwdS7mxz0_46U0QI

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Join the rest of the country tonight at 8pm in a massive applause for the NHS! Join in to show your appreciation.

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There is a quiz being hosted weekly, every Thursday at the same time on Zoom with the following link. https://zoom.us/j/267678492 and everyone is welcome to join them.

Their meeting link is a repeated event, so the link they have will be the same every week. It also means it’s easy to share if there’s anyone you would like to invite to take part.

Their meeting will be open from 7.30pm. The host asks that you please sign in by 7.45pm so team allocation can be done by the time the quiz is due to start at 8pm.

 

Whilst many of the most vulnerable in our town will be part of the government’s national shielding programme and will have received a letter directly from the NHS to signpost them to where they can access help, residents who require additional support or don’t fall within the government’s scheme, whether it be with shopping or just someone to talk to, are encouraged to register online at www.watford.gov.uk/covid-support

Those Watford residents who do not qualify for the government's shielding programme can access support via Watford Council and their our online form.

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There was a great response from everyone to the first Watford Together quiz. Over £1k raised for charities doing vital work on the front line of this crisis in Watford.

Peter Taylor, Mayor of Watford will be hosting another Virtual Pub Quiz on Sunday  at 8pm with Hornets legend Luther Blissett.

This again will be to raise money for the Community Fund, which support the fantastic charities involved in the COVID-19 relief effort in the town.

These include groups supporting victims of domestic abuse, groups giving emergency support to rough sleepers and groups helping deliver food to vulnerable people.

To donate £3, text WATFORD to 70331.

To join the quiz, simply go to his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/petertaylorwatford/ at 8pm on Sunday and join the live broadcast.

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Morrison's doorstep delivery service is available to vulnerable and elderly members of the community, unable to go shopping in-store.

Call 0345 611 6111 and select option 5 to place your order. Any order placed before 4pm they will aim to deliver the next day.

In order to use this service you must live within 10 miles of a Morrison store. There is an limit of three per item whilst using this service.

Deliveries will adhere to the current social distancing rules so to avoid contact we strongly encourage contactless card payments only, if this isn't possible chip and pin card payments are available but no cash payments can be accepted.

Please see below for the list of essential items which you can order.

 

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Morrisons have introduced essential food boxes for those unable to book a delivery slot or get out to access supplies.

There are Five options:

Vegetarians food box - A selection of food suitable for vegetarians, plus essential household items. £35 plus a £5 delivery fee.

Meat eaters food box - A selection of food including fresh meat, plus essential household items. £35 plus a £5 delivery fee.

Market Kitchen Square Meals box - Eight complete main meals - four different dishes.£30 plus a £5 delivery fee.

Market Kitchen Meal Maker box - Eight main meals - four different dishes. Add your own rice, pasta or potatoes to complete the meal. £30 plus a £5 delivery fee.

Family Meat Box - Create and enjoy hearty meals for the family - includes various fresh meat packs such as chicken, beef and pork £45 plus a £5 delivery fee.

They can deliver your box the next day if you order before 3pm. https://www.morrisons.com/food-boxes/boxes

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Hertfordshire Constabulary is warning residents to be cautious as a number of Coronavirus related scams have been reported. These include:

Text messages being received from Gov.uk stating that the recipient has breached regulations and will be sent a fine in the post.

Emails claiming that people can donate to the efforts of the World Health Organisation or the centre for Disease Control to combat the virus, by asking people to pay via a bitcoin link.

 

‘Breastfeeding Support & Introduction to Solid Foods’  Are you in need of some one to one breastfeeding support or looking for advice on how to introduce solid food to your baby?

The Family Centre Service professional and qualified team are now able to provide tailored one to one support to families over the phone.

Please ring them on 0300 123 7572 to speak to a member of the team who will re-direct your call (please select your district first, followed by option 2)

Please note that phone calls can be answered between 10am – 4pm

 

For adult men of any age, this fun 6 week online course looks at how to improve lifestyles through exercise, eating habits and general lifestyle changes.

The course includes opportunities to prepare healthy lunches and lifestyle plans for the future.

Starts 16th June - 21st July; 10am - 1pm. Call Jane to book your place and enrol 07483 104910

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Some of  Watford family centre services Early Start Workers will be going LIVE from their homes, each week to bring you all of your favourite sessions.  From singing and dancing to reading stories, why not join in with your little ones for some fun!

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As a special offer to cheer up these uncertain times Miniature Railway in Cassiobury Park are offering discounted Multi-Ride Tickets ready for when they reopen.

The Tickets have no expiry date, can be used on any/multiple days and can be used for individuals, families or groups - any combination that adds up to the number of rides on the ticket.

10 Ride Tickets are £15 and 20 Ride Tickets are £25

Buy them @ http://watfordrailway.co.uk/shop/ - they will be posting them out (free) as long as the local postie keeps going!

N.B. These are only available to buy online - they won't be available to buy at the railway when they reopen.

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West Hertfordshire Hospital NHS Trust are setting up the following helplines to enable families and carers to keep in touch with relatives:

Family liaison call back service - Due to demands on clinical staff they are providing a family liaison call back service for patients who are in the isolation areas or ITU. The family liaison team will link closely with clinical areas and will update relatives about patients.

Visitor Helpline - They have also established a visitor helpline on 01923 436799. Relatives can call this number for answers to general queries or for signposting. Lines will then be available 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm and managed by clinical and administrative staff.

 

 

Don't forget to join Peter Taylor and Watford FC legend Luther Blissett for a live Virtual Quiz every Sunday. They will be joined by Electric Umbrella every week who will do the music round.

They are fundraising to help support our COVID-19 Relief Fund, helping charities in the town on the front line during this crisis.

To donate £5, text WATFORD to 70970 or go to bit.ly/watfordcovidappeal

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The news many of you have been waiting for! The New Hope Watford shop will be open for donations ONLY (please no furniture) from 6th July to 10th July (between 10am and 12noon).

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Every day at 11am, you can listen one of David Walliams’ World’s Worst Children stories, so sit down, take a break, and enjoy 20ish minutes of pure fun! https://www.worldofdavidwalliams.com/elevenses/

 

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A reminder that Steve Backshall will have Live Q&A wildlife sessions every Wednesday morning  at 9.30am on Facebook live and YouTube

https://www.facebook.com/stevebackshallofficial/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm-URP49TgSgyIU1rgh2m7A

He will be answering your wildlife questions, and there may even be some mystery guests...

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Watford Mencap supports local people with learning disabilities to reach their full potential.  They have extended their hours of service for children and adults with a learning disability and their family and carers.

Email advice@watfordmencap.org.uk or call 01923 713632 Monday - Friday 8am - 8pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am - 4pm.

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Watford Foodbank already supports people who are in hardship, and will continue to do so during the Coronavirus outbreak.

For more information, please visit the Foodbank website at watfordfoodbank.co.uk or phone 01923 804435 10am to 1pm, Monday to Saturday.

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Gokula which is owned by Food For Charity have been given permission by Watford Community Housing (WCH) to use the Meriden Community Hub, 149 York Way (down the side of the Co-op) to supply FREE hot nutritious meals for the community.

These will be for residents on a low income and those in need, to come along once a week on a Friday between 11am and 3pm for a take-away meal.

They act upon guidance of the World Health Organisation and will be taking the necessary measures to protect volunteers and their needy customers with social distancing.

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Peter Taylor the Mayor of Watford will now be hosting Facebook Live Q&A's weekly every Friday at 2pm.

Peter has given two Facebook live Q&A's. Thousands of residents tuned into the Mayor of Watford Facebook Live broadcast about the town’s response to Coronavrius and he will be doing these live Q&A's every Friday at 2pm.

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We know many families are looking for ideas to keep children entertained. To help the The Woodland Trust has pulled together some simple, nature-based activities you can enjoy together at home or in your garden http://ow.ly/GqrD50ziO05

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Hosted by Watford & Three Rivers Family Centre Service, join  Georgie every Wednesday for songs and stories at 1pm, live from her home: https://www.facebook.com/WatfordThreeRiversFCS/?

Georgie will sing a range of songs for you and your little ones to enjoy and will read a different story each week.  You can also request songs and get live shout outs for your little ones too.

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Hosted by Watford & Three Rivers Family Centre Service, Louise's Live Baby Sing and Play is a range of songs aimed at little ones.

Join them every Thursday at 1.30pm. https://www.facebook.com/WatfordThreeRiversFCS/?

Louise will also take request will also take requests and she has different activities each week that you can recreate with your baby in the comfort of your own home.

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A new Facebook page, Community News, has been launched that covers news, events and activities in Watford. Why not check it out? https://www.facebook.com/groups/2668569830092389/

Please do recommend it to friends and family, if you like what you see!

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Whether you're concerned about yourself or a loved one, these NHS helplines and support groups can offer expert advice.

Please click on: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/?fbclid=IwAR1FbMHkegcmA9jc4UowMKHChYqFaeiO6FHg0T8Nq_sAbwOaqERukzenG6U

 

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The coming days and weeks are going to be difficult for families across the UK.  As experts in developing skills and bringing adventure to young people, The Great Indoors want to do what they can to help.

While they normally love the great outdoors, they have pulled together some inspired indoor activity ideas, to keep your kids learning new skills and having fun (and avoid hearing ‘I’m bored’ every 30 seconds)

For some great indoor ideas for children visit:

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/snap-happy/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/storm-in-a-teacup/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/the-leafy-hedgehog/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/be-a-blackout-poet/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/switch-off-challenge/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/mark-my-words/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/fabulous-fancy-frames/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/dear-future-me/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/an-in-tents-year/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/weekly-wins/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/to-foldly-go/

https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/changing-your-coat/

These activities were originally designed for groups meeting face-to-face, so you may have to think on your feet to make them work in the (very unique) situation we’re in. Anyone can be the person leading the game or activity, so why not let young people take charge? Instead of chatting in a real-life group, you could use the internet (safely) or talk to someone at home.

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One Vision have teamed up with Watford Interfaith association to help people with difficulties.  One Vision deliver food very safely - i.e they leave it on the doorstep with no contact.

Annalisa Molteni is part of the recognised group One Vision. There are thousands of people that have signed up to help vulnerable people in various ways.

Please contact Annalisa on 07425 785763 if you need help getting daily essentials, hot food, or in need of online pastoral/wellbeing care, personal stress issues or chaplaincy support.

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The Body Coach TV is everyone’s favourite online personal trainer, Joe Wicks, who has created daily sessions on his YouTube channel live at 9am all ready to get your day started with some exercise.

The videos are all saved to his channel so you can complete them later on in the day or go back and re-do some of your favourite workouts.

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Due to extremely high demand, Gousto can't take any new customer orders right now.  However if you are not sure what to cook for dinner, you can browse through their full library of delicious recipe ideas here: https://www.gousto.co.uk/cookbook/all-recipes

All recipes complete with Ingredients and cooking instructions

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Discover free activities and adventures for children to do at home https://www.boden.co.uk/en-gb/mini-missions#nav  

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Links to support organisations -  Information about essential services and support organisations.

Herts Age UK
Tel: 01707 323272 (Mon-Fri between 09:00 and 16:30)
info@ageukherts.org.uk

Herts Help - network of community organisations in Hertfordshire working together, and helping people in crisis to find support, guidance and information.
Tel: 0300 123 4044
Email: info@hertshelp.net

New Hope
Tel: 01923 210 696
Email: egurney@newhope.org.uk

One Vision Project
Email: ovp@stanboroughpark.org

Small Acts of Kindness
Tel: 01923372717
Email: info@smallactsofkindness.co.uk

Watford Foodbank (Mon – Sat between 10:00 and 13:00)
Tel: 01923 804435 or 07925 813027
Email: info@watford.foodbank.org.uk

Watford Citizens Advice
Tel: 03444 111 444 (Mon-Fri between 10:00 and 16:00)
Visit the Watford CAB website

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Active Herts workouts are perfect for older adults and are also designed for people new to exercise. Simple, heart raising exercises mixed with mobility and stretching.

Andy Rix is an instructor the Herts Sports Partnership knows very well, and who has a wealth of experience! Click on the links below for a taste of what Andy and Active Herts have to offer:

Active Herts warm up (10 mins)

Active Herts main workout (30 mins)

Active Herts cool down (5 mins)

Active Herts stretches (10 mins)

You can find loads more videos and tutorials on Andy’s YouTube page, including chair based and low impact exercises as well as more advanced sessions to aim towards. Enjoy!

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Many of us will know the TV show Ready Steady Cook, and the programme is currently enjoying a revival. The show is about making quick and easy meals on a budget.

With this in mind and with the latest situation, we thought we would share a link to 40 recipes that have been on the show in recent weeks from main meals, desserts, light meals, snacks and side dishes.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/programmes/m000g20l/recipes

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Random Cafe are able to offer their mini market during the week for those who need it. They will be open on Tuesday, Thursday 10am - noon and Saturday from 10am to Noon and then 1pm till 3pm.

 

Audible is the UK's largest provider of digital audiobooks, exclusive and original series, short programmes and more.

Right now, kids everywhere can instantly stream an incredible collection of stories, including titles across six different languages, that will help them continue dreaming, learning, and just being kids.

All stories are free to stream on your desktop, laptop, phone or tablet.  Explore the collection, select a title and start listening.  It's that easy: https://stories.audible.com/

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Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline is still operating normally, this is a free and confidential service for anyone affected by domestic abuse and they can signpost to up to 170 organisations that can help people.

They are there for victims, professionals, concerned friends, neighbours and family members and work colleagues.

Call them on 08 088 088 088 between 9am - 9pm Monday to Friday, and 9am - 4pm weekends and Bank Holidays.

They also operate a confidential email service: kim@mailpurple.org

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Cirque du Soleil have something special for their fans! Since we cannot go to them, they have come to us with a selection of CirqueConnect hour-long specials.

To make it easy for you to watch simply click on the links below: All the links will be on our website.

March 27th: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQ5eUJNXrMw&t=707s

April 3rd : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=allVFq3P-48

April 10th: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VL0TG_nCqzE

April 17th: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zuBpFgxDCI&t=35s

April 24th: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1RDoJp1Sea8

May 1st: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlTCkMMJM6o&t=4s

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Looking for fun family activities that will keep the kids entertained on a budget?

From pretty-in-pink trinket boxes to store all their valuables, to clever money banks that will help them save, here are four craft projects they'll love creating and using!

https://www.asdagoodliving.co.uk/family/things-to-do/kids-craft-ideas?

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Here are 18 meals you can make for under £1, from filling and nourishing meals on a small budget. From homemade pizza to tasty mushroom risottos and a crowd-pleasing chicken fajitas

https://www.asdagoodliving.co.uk/food/features/one-pound-meals?

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Danya Miller and guests will be streaming live bedtime storytelling session every Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30pm.

Link to the stream: https://www.wizardpresents.co.uk/danyah-miller/  This is suitable for the whole family to enjoy!

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Spot the difference:

Can you spot the 10 differences in the picture below?

Can you spot the 10 differences in the picture below?

Can you spot the five differences in the picture below?

Can you spot in the picture below the ten differences?

Can you spot 5 differences in the pictures below?

Can you spot six differences from the pictures below?

Can you spot 10 differences in the pictures below?

The picture below of Bunny and Easter eggs are mostly similar. There are six differences. Can you identify them?

Can you spot 10 differences between these two living room pictures below?

Can you spot the 10 differences in the picture below?

Spot the five differences in the picture below

Five differences to find in the picture below

Five differences for you to spot in the pictures below

Can you spot the five difference in the picture below?

Below the picture has  five differences for you to spot

In the two pictures below there are 8 differences.

Can you spot the 5 differences in the picture below?

Can you spot the 5 differences?

Can you spot 5 differences between the Mermaid?

There are 5 difference in the  picture below to find.

There are 7 differences to spot in the picture below

Can you spot 5 differences below

In the picture below there are ten differences to spot

Can you spot the 5 differences below?

Below the two pictures have 5 differences to spot

Another 5 differences to spot in the pictures below

Can you spot all 7 differences in the picture below?

Can you find the 5 differences in the picture below?

Below are 5 differences to spot in the pictures

Can you spot 5 differences in the pictures below?

Can you spot the six differences below?

Can you spot the 5 differences in the picture below?

10 differences for you to spot below

Spot 12 differences in the picture below

Can you spot the 6 differences below?

Below there are 5 differences in the picture

Spot 10 differences in the picture below

Can you spot 5 differences below?

Can you spot the 5 difference below?

Can you spot the 7 difference in the picture below?

There is 6 difference to spot in the picture below

Can you spot 10 differences below?

Can you spot 6 differences below?

6 differences for you spot in the picture below

Can you spot 5 differences below?

Can you spot 10 differences below?

Can you spot 6 differences below?

Can you spot the 6 differences below?

6 more differences for you to spot below.

Can you spot 5 differences below?

Can you spot the 5 differences below

5 differences below to spot

Another 5 differences for you to spot below

Can you spot the 10 differences below?

There are 5 difference below

 Can you spot the 6 differences below?

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Where's Wally? 

Can you find Wally in the pictures below?  Wally is identified by his red-and-white-striped shirt, bobble hat, and glasses and sometimes a walking stick.

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Random cafe have published some recipes to give a little inspiration for what to do with food.

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