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Blue Door theatre group aims to recreate dark, supernatural world of Macbeth for autumn performance at Bull Theatre, High Barnet

High Barnet’s acclaimed drama group is busy rehearsing for their autumn production — an imaginative presentation of The Tragedie of Macbeth, William Shakespeare’s play about the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition and political power.

Macbeth is a classic tale about a murderous medieval king which director Siobhan Dunne says seems so relevant to the events of today in a world troubled by despots, bullies and tyrants prepared to murder to get power.

Her innovative production aims to break new ground with original live music and projections designed to recreate the dark, supernatural world of the weird sisters – the three witches who appear to Macbeth and Banquo.

After several recent sell-out productions retelling the history of Barnet, the Blue Door Theatre Company are determined that their interpretation of Macbeth will be another milestone for one of the Bull Theatre’s most exciting and original community theatre groups.

There will be four performances from Thursday 16 October to Saturday 18 October – just the right timing for any local students for whom Macbeth is a set text for GCSE English.  (Tickets £15 via www.thebulltheatre.com)

For Siobhan Dunne this will be a first – the first time she has produced Macbeth with a full theatrical company.

Together with other members of her production team – above, from left to right, movement director Naomi Richards, Siobhan Dunne and composer Nick Godwin — they are planning a performance which will conjure up a supernatural atmosphere full of music, sound and eye-catching projections.

“Shakespeare’s intention in Macbeth was for us all to hold a mirror up to ourselves and what better time to delve into the corrupting effects of war and power-hungry despots,” said Siobhan.

“For anyone studying Macbeth, our production should be particularly exciting and rewarding as the key features of the story are perfectly underlined.”

The two lead characters — Macbeth (Francesco Giacon) and Lady Macbeth (Claire Fisher) — recognise the challenge they face in getting to grips with two of the most demanding theatrical roles.

Francesco agrees that it is no easy task trying to understand Macbeth’s character and then think how best to play the part.

“I am having to make a personal assessment of how to portray a complicated and perplexing role, someone who is ambitious, a murderer, paranoid and resigned to his fate, but then defiant when he realises the game is up.”

Claire Fisher, whose first play Mary Livingstone, I Presume? was performed at the Bull Theatre earlier this year, is relishing the chance to perform a celebrated Shakespearean role.

“I am trying to find the right balance between Lady Macbeth’s ambition for Macbeth and for herself, and she is not a very nice person.

“Together we have some intense scenes, and we have to pitch it right. We are a married couple in a very tempestuous relationship egging one another on to destruction.”

Claire said that after the challenge of writing the drama about the ghost like presence of Mary Livingstone, inside Livingstone Cottage on Hadley Green, she was so enjoying the opportunity to take part in Macbeth.

“Shakespeare’s words and poetry have such a wonderful rhythm. They are certainly easier to learn than anything I might have written.”  

In Shakespeare’s day there were not many props in his productions as most of the interpretation was through the acting but over the years scenery has had an increasingly significant role, which has presented a challenge for another Blue Door stalwart.  

High Barnet drama group to stage Macbeth at Bull Theatre and aim to recreate the dark, supernatural world of a Shakespearean tragedy.

Sculptor and artist Cos Gerolemou (above) who has worked behind the scenes on so many of the company’s productions, has been preparing some blood-thirsty props – including Banquo’s mask.

“Perhaps the grisliest of all is Banquo’s head in a sack. I think it is pretty realistic.

“What has been so fascinating for me is thinking whether Shakespeare would approve of what I’ve created.

“There weren’t many props in Shakespeare’s day but with the passage of time there is greater interpretation of his works and that’s where props and scenery play their part.”

Siobhan is sure the audience will be wowed by the amazing masks which Cos has made.

“One of the key aspects of Macbeth is that the characters don’t show their true selves.

“So, to have hooded or masked characters is a classic Shakespearean ploy for people who are not presenting themselves as they truly are.”

Another innovation for the production is the original musical score composed by Nick Godwin who plays guitar for the North London group The Silencerz.

“I hope what I am creating with the music and chorus is the right mood for a Shakespearean tragedy like Macbeth,” said Nick.

“All the texts are there for the songs in Macbeth but the music that was played at the time of those first performances has disappeared over the years.

“So, it is a real privilege for me coming at this afresh and trying to put music to the words.

“The musical score has a real part to play. For example, the three witches are played in so many different ways. They can be fairly childlike or frightening and intimidating. So, the composer has a choice.”

Nick has put together a team of musicians including violinist Helen Brown and bass player Ned Wilkins.

Siobhan says the Blue Door group is also so pleased to have support and advice from Naomi Richards who has become movement director for the production.

“For ten years, Naomi performed and toured with the percussion group Stomp, so she knows all about the importance of physical theatre.

“This will be of real help in advising the cast. We are all trying to recreate the dark surroundings and supernatural world of Macbeth. We are determined our audiences will get to see a unique production.”

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Pub of the year award regained by The Mitre as Barnet’s real ale enthusiasts voice concern over closures in neighbouring Enfield

After missing out on the award for several years, Barnet’s oldest hostelry Ye Olde Mitre Inne has been voted pub of the year for 2025 by the Enfield and Barnet branch of the Campaign for Real Ale.

At a presentation evening, CAMRA members said they were pleased to be back at The Mitre which has recently been refurbished by the brewers Greene King.

Peter Graham (above, right), chair of the Enfield and Barnet branch, handed over the award to Harrison Smith, team leader of the bar staff.

Since the Enfield and Barnet branch was established in 1975, The Mitre has won the pub of the year award more than any other local pub, its reputation for real ale having been well established by a previous landlord Gary Murphy.

Mr Murphy relinquished the lease in 2021 after spending 13 years building up The Mitre’s offer of real and craft ales.

He became a cheerleader for publicans across the country and campaigned against the plight of 15,000 tied landlords struggling against exorbitant rents and additional beer charges.

In presenting the award, Mr Graham said it was great to be back at The Mitre. They still missed Mr Murphy but were keen to congratulate the staff on winning the award.

In a poll of members, The Bohemia in North Finchley was placed second and third was The Elephant Inn, also in North Finchley.

Mr Graham – seen here with fellow CAMRA members – said that real ale pubs in the Barnet area seemed to be trading more successfully than those in the Enfield area.

“We have had some closures recently of pubs around Ponders End and Enfield Wash and this is of concern, so we are pleased that across in Barnet the pubs do not seem to be struggling as much.”

The only current closure is of The Lord Nelson in West End Lane, Barnet, but the tenancy is being advertised by Punch Pubs and CAMRA members hope it will be trading again before the end of the summer.

Harrison Smith said customers at The Mitre thought its recent refurbishment had been a success.

“Some people were worried when they heard that improvements and alterations were being made to such an historic old pub, but once they were back inside, they seem reassured.”

New beer pumps were installed and improvements made in the cellar. The original windows facing onto to the High Street were retained and the opportunity take to repair a stained-glass window at the front of the pub.

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Armed forces open day gave Barnet’s army reservists and cadets a chance to welcome residents to look around St Albans Road reserve centre

Displays and training demonstrations by reservists and cadets filled the parade ground at the Army Reserve Centre in St Albans Road, Barnet, in celebration of Armed Forces Day.

Members of 240 Transport Squadron of the 151 Royal Logistics Corps were on hand to welcome visitors to their first open day since a restoration of public events following the covid emergency shutdown.

Sergeant Major Mark Smith said the 50-strong Barnet reserve squadron – who all have full-time jobs – had been looking forward to the chance to show residents the range of their military equipment, training and activities.

Members of the Barnet squadron march on Remembrance Sunday from the St Albans Road reserve centre along the High Street to the war memorial at Barnet Parish Church and they said the open day was a valuable opportunity to reach out to the town.                                                                                                                  

In addition to being a base for the reservists, the centre is also home of Barnet Army Cadet Force.

Sergeant Anya Wallis (above, right), an instructor in resuscitation techniques took her fellow cadets through the procedures for CPR and the use of a defibrillator.

Anya, a former pupil at Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School, joined the Barnet force of 30 or so cadets seven years ago and trained as an instructor.

“We teach first aid at different levels and there are a range of qualifications which are available to the cadets.”

A group of new recruits described how valuable they were finding the sessions – above, from left to right, Marie Iacovou, Ben Newton, Sharaddha Kori and Nuen Wang.

The Barnet force, which is attached to the Middlesex and North-West London Cadet Force, offers places for youngsters up to the age of 18. They get a taste of life in the armed forces, and some go on to join the regular army.

Marie and Sharaddha said they liked the experience of being army cadets.

Their lead instructor Captain David Cawrey (above) – a teaching assistant in civilian life – said their aim was to open up opportunities for Barnet’s youngsters.

“Most of the new recruits join by word of mouth, perhaps after hearing about us from friends or fellow pupils at school.

“We are a community cadet force, and we offer the cadets a range of experiences, with lots of activities.

“If they are interested in signing up to the forces, we can point them in the right direction and hopefully the training they receive will enhance their job prospects in civilian life.”

A demonstration which attracted intense interest was a display of the armaments used by the squadron by Corporal Chris Hatt (above), who has been a reservist for over 20 years. 

All the weapons were safely secured – a machine gun, personal weapon, pistol and night sight for use during exercises.

Another eye-catching display was of the latest CBRN combat kit for the hazards of modern warfare providing protection against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear attacks.

The display intrigued Barnet resident Roger Hedgecoe, a former parachute officer and major in the Royal Signals, who left the Army in 1992. “I am very impressed by the kit they are issued with today – far better than in my day.”

Above, from left to right, Sergeant Major Mark Smith, CBRN instructor, Sergeant Jason Smith and Roger Hedgecoe.

Armed Forces open day first chance for some years to look around St Albans Road Army Reserve Centre and see training for Barnet's reservists and cadets.

The reservist on duty at the St Albans Road entrance to the reserve centre is training to become a vehicle mechanic – a far cry from her civilian job as a data analyst.

“I joined the reserves eight months ago and completed the basic training. Now I am training to become a vehicle mechanic and building up my experience on military vehicles.

“The attraction of being a reservist is that it gives me a chance to add to my skills set plus the time outside, the adventure training and chance to make new friends. The camaraderie and friendships are important.”     

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New initiative from Barnet’s Incredible Edible campaign – a festival to celebrate the brilliance of the humble bean

A celebration of the joy of growing and eating beans organised by members of Barnet’s innovative Incredible Edible campaign group was a journey from start to finish – from seed to plate.

Despite the sustained drought of recent weeks, a patch of runner beans in a community garden beside St Mary’s Church in East Barnet was in great shape with the first beans almost ready to eat.

Wendy Alcock (above left), founder of a much admired local initiative to encourage home cultivation in gardens and on unused land, had organised what she described as a celebration of the brilliance of beans.

St Mary’s community halls in Church Hill Road presented a beanfest — starting with advice on sowing and growing beans followed by cooking demonstrations and a tasting competition for a range of dips.

“We wanted to hold the event when there is still time to plant beans and get a crop by the late summer.

“We also wanted to demonstrate the great versatility of what is a favourite vegetable for so many people.”

Betty Greenwood (above left) and Elaine Jackson were on hand to describe the many varieties to choose from. Their plant display included borlotti beans, dwarf French beans and white runner beans.

They agreed it had been a difficult year because of the lack of rain. Bean plants needed to be watered regularly, and their water butts were nearly exhausted.

“If we go on getting such dry summers perhaps, we shall have to switch to some of the French and Italian varieties which adapt better to sustained hot weather,” said Betty.

In another room, community nutritionist Filomena Komodromu (above right) had prepared three different dips from beans and pulses – from green peas, red lentils and white beans and visitors were asked to rate them.

“My role is to advise people how to eat healthily and, on a budget, and beans and pulses are a great source of protein, they have lots of fibre, iron and Vitamin B.

“The one tip I always give people is that when they use tinned beans, they should be thoroughly rinsed first before eating.”

Beside the church halls is the council owned Church Farm Open Space where Wendy Alcock has established a community garden, one of four developed across the borough with the help of Barnet Council.

“We got funding for this project last year and the aim is to develop more community gardens across Barnet after people have been on a free eight-week course to gain experience of growing plants and vegetables.”

Jennie Bradford (above, left) signed up last year for the East Barnet course, and has taken on the leadership this year.

Wendy said the aim of this initiative – “Ready, Steady, Grow!” – was to show people how to grow vegetables in their gardens or public spaces.

“We do now have four new community gardens across the borough, but I would like to see many more.”

The July course is fully signed up but there are vacancies for the course in September. Further information and a sign up available at www.yourhealthbarnet.org or email food@barnet.gov.uk

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Relaunch of Barnet’s folk dancing club to focus on widening interest and appeal of Balkan folk dance culture  

Barnet’s long-established international folk dance club is being relaunched to take advantage of the growing popularity of the traditional folk music and dancing of the Balkans with the hope of attracting a wider membership.

Their experience in recent years – despite having built up a repertoire of hundreds of folk dances from around the world – is that Balkan dancing continues to attract by far the greatest interest.

In future the club will be known as Dunav: Barnet Dances Balkan and a revamped programme kicks off with their annual summer party at 7.30pm on Friday 25 July at Church House, High Barnet.

Two long-standing members, Margaret Luck (above left) and Irene Nichols have been helping to organise and promote the event – an evening of live Balkan music and buffet to which all are welcome. (Entrance fee £10).

Barnet International Folk Dance Club was established in 1962, initially meeting in Hendon, before moving to High Barnet, and from the start the founder members were fascinated by the intriguing rhythms of Balkan dances.

With the gradual opening up of travel to Eastern Europe, and with the freedom of movement following g the enlargement of the EU, group members began visiting countries in the Balkans and became even greater admirers of their folk-dance culture.

Such was the club’s interest that their sessions at Church House regularly featured an appearance by leaders of a Bulgarian ensemble — artistic director and dance teacher Iliana Bozhanova and music director and accordion player Tudor Yankov (see above).

Brian Dowsett, who led the Barnet group for many years, helped to establish a flourishing Balkan dance scene in London which now features a monthly Balkanplus event at Cecil Sharp House in Camden, home of the International Folk Dancing Society.

Charlotte Clare, a member of the Barnet club, teaches simplified versions of Balkan dances with live music from the band Ygra.

Barnet's long established international folk dancing club is rebooting to celebrate popularity of Balkan culture of folk dancing and music

Another band that often visited Barnet was Dunav – see above – that specialised in the music of south-eastern Europe.

Irene Nichols said that for their regular dance evenings – on the second and fourth Fridays of the month – they take advantage of a mini-iPad which is loaded with a full range of music.

“Balkan dancing is by far the most popular and Charlotte teaches accessible versions on their dances.

“Our great admiration of Balkan dancing was reinforced by a trip we made to Bulgaria.

“We went around the villages which have still have an active folk dance culture – so we experienced at first hand dancing together in village squares with local residents and their brass bands.”

Margaret Luck, a founder member of the Barnet club, said they hoped that by focusing on Balkan dancing they could build up the membership of the group.

“We are hoping to attract new members, and for example, we would love to welcome residents of the Bulgarian and Romanian communities living here in Barnet and around North London.

“They know the music and understand the rhythms of the dances.”

Another event in the club’s rebooted programme is a visit in September by Ziko, a famous Serbian accordionist.

For more information about joining the club or attending the summer party email: irene.nichols@gmail.com

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Looking for inspiration through the windows of High Barnet’s historic buildings was challenge for Festival of Architecture art workshop  

An art workshop arranged as part of the London Festival of Architecture combined the idea of dreams and visions seen through notable window frames of historic buildings in and around High Barnet.

Just visible looking out from an appealing window in the High Street were some of the swifts which swirl around high above the town each summer – an expression of the freedom of nature which was the inspiration for a painting by Eric Moules (above).

Eric was one of the participants in the workshop held by the Loop the Loop Art Club at The Stable in Salisbury Road.

For the club’s founder, Heather Ellis (far right), this was the second mixed media art workshop she has organised as part of the Festival of Architecture.

This year the challenge was Windows of Dreams: linking ideas for dreams to the architecture and history of High Barnet.

To help those taking part, she had photographed the windows of historic buildings such as the Tudor Hall, the parish church, houses at Monken Hadley and for more modern designs the windows of The Spires shopping centre and geometric windows above Iceland supermarket.

Another source of inspiration were the voices of significant women with strong connections to High Barnet – Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the hospice movement; novelist Fanny Trollope, who lived on Hadley Green; local school founder Elizabeth Allen; Julia Hyde, who established the Hyde Foundation Library in Church Passage; and Gwyneth Cowing, whose family owned the Barnet Press.

The life of Miss Cowing, who lived at Whalebones in Wood Street – where arched whalebones stand at the entrance — fascinated architectural student Aravin and inspired his contribution to the workshop.

Framed by a gothic window from a house opposite Monken Hadley parish, his illustration included a whale and the face of the High Street clock above the front door of what was the Barnet Press office and is now Costa Coffee.

Heather Ellis said the idea for the Windows of Dreams challenge had come from the early life of Dame Cicely Saunders who nursed a Polish Jewish refugee who bequeathed her £500 in 1945 to be “a window for her dreams”.

She used the money to help build the hospice movement and founded St Christopher’s Hospice in Sydenham where her work is commemorated with a “window of dreams”.

Art workshop celebrating London Festival of Architecture reflected inspirations seen from historic windows in High Barnet

Harvey Roe — above right with Carolyn — chose a window in The Spires to frame his dreamy picture of a scene in the countryside.

Illustrations produced during the workshop will be on display at The Stable in

Salisbury Road during June.

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1st Barnet Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association awarded seven King’s Badges in exceptional year of achievement  

Seven Barnet winners of the King’s Badge – the highest award in the Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association – were honoured at a special service at Barnet United Reformed Church after an official presentation at Guildhall in the City of London.

The award of as many as seven King’s Badges is an unprecedented achievement for the 1st. Barnet Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association whose members have previously won a total of only four over the preceding 50 years.

They were congratulated on their success at a prize giving evening where awards and certificates were handed out by Dan Tomlinson, Labour MP for Chipping Barnet, and Martin Russell, representative Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Barnet.

Alan King, the brigade captain, said that in the 50 years that he had been with the brigade only four members had won what was the Queen’s Badge and is now the King’s Badge.

“We have usually secured one of the badges every ten years or so. Therefore, to get seven awarded in one year is very rare and very special for our brigade.”

Mr King said the success of the seven was down to the fact that they had worked together as a group and had taken part in every activity the brigade had to offer.

“Almost half of them joined as five-year-olds and they have been dedicated members for the last 12 to 15 years.”

Mr Tomlinson (above, left) added his congratulations to the King’s Badge holders and paid tribute to the work of Alan King and all the other volunteers.

“It is people like you Alan, and the people who run the brigade, who make our community stronger. As an MP there is nothing that I can do which can compare with the work you do day in and day out to make our community even stronger.”

Exceptional year of achievement for 1st Barnet Boys' Brigade and Girls' Association in being awarded seven King's Badges.

Among the other awards was the presentation by Martin Russell of the Deputy Lord Lieutenant’s certificate of appreciation to colour sergeant David Hay who had been a Boys’ Brigade member for over 12 years.

He congratulated David for an outstanding contribution to the brigade which included over 400 hours of voluntary service with the junior section.

Earlier in an address the minister, the Reverend Dominic Grant, said the presentation of awards was a testament to everything which united the world-wide fellowship of Boys’ Brigades and Girls’ Associations.

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An all-comers dog show again a highlight at the annual Arkley village fayre

Arkley’s annual village fayre attracted even more entrants than last year for its all-comers dog show – and the class for golden oldies among local canines proved especially popular.

First prize went to Tracey with Teabag, her eleven-year-old Bichon Frise.

Another old timer, Raffi, took second place – Sue’s 15-year-old Chinese crested hairless.

Katie’s nine-year-old Pomeranian Nala was awarded the rosette for third place by judge Ruth Treweeks.

Rachel Burke (right) of dog groomers Beauty Barks of Borehamwood, who organised the dog show, said the turnout for their second year at Arkley had been great.

Show volunteer and organiser Mel (left) with her eight-year-old English bull terrier Arnie, was delighted with the support they had received from residents and traders

Dog show again the highlight of Arkley annual village fayre.

Vicar of St Peter’s Arkley, the Reverend Cindy Kent, spent much of the afternoon behind a microphone as a show compere.

She stressed the important contribution made by the annual village fayre.

“It is a lovely event on the field at the village hall and really does bring the community of Arkley together.”

Organisers said the fayre raised “a significant sum” which will be split among community projects such as the cost of maintaining the village hall and field; providing an accessible entrance to the garden of rest at St Peter’s Church; and cost of maintaining the defibrillator installed by the Hearts of Arkley in Rockways, a cul-de-sac just off the Barnet to Arkley main road.

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Eight summer concerts for Barnet music lovers – a festival of chamber music and outdoor opera at Jack’s Lake 

Opening the fifth annual High Barnet Chamber Music Festival will be a family concert at St Mark’s Church, Barnet Vale, a new venue for this summer’s event.

The first of the festival’s four concerts will be free to the public at St Mark’s on Saturday June 7 at 3pm with a programme specifically to appeal to young audiences.

In addition to the festival of chamber music, there will be another musical attraction this summer – four outdoor concerts beside Jack’s Lake at Monken Hadley Common starting on Saturday June 14 at 7pm.

Organised by the internationally acclaimed opera singer Ilona Domnich, the Jack’s Lake concerts are sponsored by the Monken Hadley Common Trust.

The opening concert in the chamber music festival has the title Birdsong and is described as a playful introduction to chamber music for families, featuring Hannah Gillingham on flute and Luke Lally Maguire on piano.

Joshua Balance, the festival’s artistic director, says that while the flute and piano programme of the opening concert will appeal to everyone, there is a particular emphasis on introducing the over-sevens to chamber music.

For the second concert on Friday June 20 (8pm), the contemporary ensemble Mad Song will make a return visit to the Barnet parish church of St John with New Zealand baritone Jonathan Eyers. Music will include Peter Maxwell Davies’s theatrical Eight Songs for a Mad King.

A Sunday afternoon concert will be held on Sunday June 29 (3pm) at the Friends’ Recital Hall at Queen Elizabeth’s Boys School with baritone Hugo Herman-Wilson and pianist Richard Gowers, featuring music by Vaughan Williams and Madeleine Dring.

The festival ends with a final concert to be given by Ensemble Pro Victoria, with music by Monteverdi, Strozzi and le Jeune, at the parish church on Saturday July 5 (7.30pm).

Tickets for the chamber music festival are on sale at www.hbcmf.co.uk/2025

Summer concerts of chamber music and opera to entertain Barnet music lovers.

Another summer of concerts by Jack’s Lake opens on Saturday June 14 (7pm) with an evening performance entitled Voices in Nature.

Opera singer Ilona Domnich, who established the concerts with the Monken Hadley Common Trust, will appear with singer Emma Kershaw and Charles Mutter on violin and piano.

Jack’s Lake concerts are free with a suggested donation of a minimum of £10 towards the preservation of the common and a bursary for a young musician.

Another three Jack’s Lake concerts will be held on Sunday July 6 at 7pm; Sunday July 20 at 6.30pm; and Sunday August 3 at 6.30pm

Use entrance in Northfield Road, New Barnet, to reach Jack’s Lake.

Enquiries: ilonadomnich@gmail.com

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Ten fire engines and 70 firefighters tackled blaze that swept through historic house being renovated on Hadley Green

Fire engines and crews from around north London were called to a massive fire which engulfed one of the large Georgian houses beside Hadley Green.

Such was the ferocity of the blaze that for several hours water had to be pumped from Brewers’ Pond just across the green.

Hours after the fire was brought under control just before 5am on Bank Holiday Monday morning, a fire crew on turntable ladder was still damping down smouldering roof timbers.

Hollybush House, a Grade II listed mansion which it is thought went for an estimated £4.5 million when last sold in 2020, was in the process of being renovated and refurbished. A new roof had recently been completed and new windows installed.

Ten fire engines and 70 firefighters were called to the fire in Hadley Green Road, close to the junction with Sydney Chapman Way at around 1am.

Next door neighbour Richard Holmes, who lives in another historic property attached to Hollybush House, was woken by fire crews at 1.10am. 

“I was in bed, fast asleep and was amazed to find what was happening. It was what firefighters call a ten-pump shout, there were fire engines everywhere.

“They were lined up all along the road. The fire crew on the top of the turntable ladder were being supplied with additional water from Brewers’ Pond just across the green.

“The crews did a great job. They managed to stop the fire at the wall of my house which is attached to Hollybush House.

“At one point they feared they might have to take the slates off my roof, but they have now said it is ok. There is no sign of the fire having spread to my roof timbers. I have had the all-clear.”

Mr Holmes’ house, close to the Wilbraham’s alms houses, has a blue plaque commemorating the time when Fanny and Anthony Trollope resided at the property.

Nearby on the other side of Hollybush House is Livingstone Cottage where the Victorian explorer Dr David Livingstone and his wife Mary lived in 1857.

Hollybush House, built in the late 1700s, was in the process of being renovated by Seacon Ltd, specialists in refurbishment projects.

Work began at the house – which is surrounded by protective hoardings – 18 months ago. The property had nine bedrooms.

London Fire Brigade — which released this picture on Twitter of the scene at the height of the fire — said later In a statement, that the entire roof, as well as the first and ground floors, were alight and that subsequently the building suffered a partial collapse, but there were no reports of any injuries.

Helping to guide the crew on the turntable ladder was one of two drones being operated by London Fire Brigade.

Roads leading across the eastern side of Hadley Green and through Monken Hadley all had to be cordoned off.

The crew that operated the pump taking water from Brewers Pond – which was once part of Hadley Brewery — said that even after two to three hours the level of the pond was about the same.

“It seems the pond must be replenished naturally all the time by the ground water level or a spring,” said one of the crew.

Fire engines and firefighters from around North London tackled blaze which swept through historic house being renovated on Hadley Green.

 

Crews from New Barnet, Southgate, Finchley and other surrounding fire stations were called in to tackle the blaze.

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Enfield flood drainage work helping to create a wetland habitat in woodland on Monken Hadley Common

Reeds and other wetland grasses and flowers have been planted along the edges of flood relief drainage work in Hadley Woods which has been carried out by Enfield Council with the help of volunteers from Monken Hadley Common Trust.

New pipework and other excavations are designed to end flash flooding in Parkgate Avenue, off Camlet Way, and improve badly drained marsh land close by in the woods which is often inaccessible in wet winter weather.

Plans were first drawn up in 2018 to relieve flooding in nearby houses.

After discussions with the Common Trust and Barnet Council, Enfield gave the go ahead for the construction of a new surface water drainpipe under the footpath that leads to the common at the junction of Parkgate Avenue and Crescent.

A wetland cell – or holding pond – has been created along with a water course through the woods which connects up to Green Brook and leads on to the stream that runs close to Jack’s Lake.

Footpaths around the area have been raised and laid out with wood chips so as to provide year-round access through the woods.

Michael Shorey, Enfield’s senior engineer in water courses, briefed volunteers before they set to work.

He explained that the aim of the scheme was to divert excess flood water through the new pipe under the footpath so that it entered the wet land cell and could then spill into a floodable landscaped wetland area reducing the flow into Green Brook.

Martin Jones (far right), a landscape architect with Enfield Council, said the importance of wetland and marginal aquatic planting was that it enhanced the water quality and added to biodiversity.

A range of pond-edge plants and wildflowers could be used in such locations and could tolerate periods of dry weather.

Roger De La Mare, co-curator of Monken Hadley Common, welcomed the completion of Enfield’s sustainable drainage scheme for Parkgate Avenue and the chance to carry out aquatic planting.

“We have had to lose several mature trees to make way for the pipework and the holding pond, but it has opened up an area which now has great potential, especially with the new raised footpaths.

“The tree canopy in much of the common does make it very dark below and that leaves us with a lot of brambles and holly, so a wetland area like this which has been laid out with aquatic plants is very appealing.”

A chance to take part in the scheme was an opportunity for Anna Colligan (left) to work with Enfield engineer Sarah Dillon to discover more about urban drainage schemes.

Anna is studying water management and the environment at Queen Mary University and was keen to volunteer.

Two Trust volunteers – Peter Davies (left) and David Littlewood – said they were pleased to see such a good turn out as it helped to get across the message that they wanted local people to get involved in looking after Monken Hadley Common.

Wetland habitat is being created within woodland on Monken Hadley Common after Enfield complete flood drainage work in Parkgate Avenue.

Nearby residents Maurice and Esther Kurland said the completion of the drainage scheme would be a great relief to some of their neighbours who had suffered from flash flooding in their properties.

“At long last there is now in place a drainage system to take the surplus water and we know how much that will be appreciated.

“Sorting out the drainage and building up the footpaths is a great improvement as this part of the common is often impassable in the winter because of all the mud. Hopefully that will all be sorted and the landscaping and planting will be a real improvement.”

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MP joins in congratulations for contribution of Barnet Environment Centre towards introducing children to nature and wildlife

Barnet Environment Centre’s three wildlife ponds are one of the most popular attractions for school pupils and students who visit the seven-and-a-half-acre nature reserve and environment education centre off Byng Road.

Robyn Stern (above), a science and biology teacher, who takes children around the reserve, was praised for her inspirational work at an event celebrating the centre’s 50th anniversary.

Guest of honour Dan Tomlinson, MP for Chipping Barnet, congratulated Robyn on her contribution to the centre’s mission of introducing and explaining the importance of nature conservation and wildlife.

“I’m the lucky one,” said Robyn. “I get all the fun from seeing how excited children get when they see things for the first time.

“Pond dipping gets an amazing reaction as the children discover what lives just below the surface of the water.

“One child rushed over claiming he had just found a baby dragon. It was a baby newt which he had never seen before.

“He and the rest of his class were amazed to discover all the tiny larvae and beetles that were living in the pond.”

One disappointment this year is the absence of frog spawn – a worrying development said volunteer Tony Pearson who helps manage the ponds – and is working with volunteers on constructing a fourth.

“We do have lots of newts again this year, although sadly no frogs but there is still lots to see once the children dip into the ponds.

“There are water beetles, larvae of dragonfly, midges as well as caddisfly larvae and damselfly nymphs.” 

Bernard Johnson, a vice chair of the centre, welcomed guests including members of Barnet Council, to join in the 50th anniversary celebrations and to tour the nature reserve to see the work they did giving children an experience of nature.

Again, this academic year the centre expects to be visited by around 2,500 children from 30 plus local schools and colleges.

Students on BTEC, GCSE and A level courses are among the visitors as well as Scouts and Guides – and soon Brownies – who want to complete badge work.

One recent improvement was the installation of a rubberised footpath around the reserve which was wheel-chair friendly and increased the accessibility for children next door from the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.

Mr Johnson thanked the Hadley Trust and the Elstree Masonic Lodge for all their financial support; without their assistance the centre would not be the success it was.

In congratulating the centre on its work, Dan Tomlinson, MP – who cut the 50th anniversary cake – said it was an amazing achievement to think that 2,500 children a year were getting the chance to visit the reserve and study nature.

“A chance to be outdoors at a place like this is so important for today’s youngsters. It is why we should cherish a nature reserve like this.”

Mr Tomlinson called for a round of applause for the volunteers who assist Robin Stern during school visits, helping to clean up afterwards and keep the centre tidy for the next visit.

Praise for role of Barnet Environment Centre in introducing local school children to nature and wildlife at centre's 50th anniversary party

He also praised the management of the centre which is currently being shared by its three vice chairs (from left to right), Dick Elms, Dan Tomlinson MP, Bernard Johnson and Geoff Lee.    

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Barnet’s deputy mayor parades along the High Street in an open top Bentley on his way to classic car show at The Spires

Riding along in an open top Bentley, Barnet’s Deputy Mayor Councillor Danny Rich just about made it to the top floor of The Spires Car Park for the official opening of the 10th annual Barnet Classic Car Show.

So packed was the show with a near record turnout of 147 vintage and classic cars and motorcycles that the Bentley was getting a little hot by the time it had finished the parade through the High Street and reached the top of the car park.

“Luckily we got the mayor there just on time,” said Paul Griffin, owner of the 3-litre Bentley.

“The parade of cars was rather slow going up from Barnet Playing Fields and she was getting rather hot, but luckily didn’t boil over.”

Councillor Rich, who was accompanied by the Deputy Mayor Laura Lassman and Councillor David Longstaff (Barnet Vale), described what he said had been an exciting journey up Barnet Hill and along the High Street.

“We were being cheered all the way, which is unusual for a councillor – but of course, the cheering was for the magnificent Bentley car and not for me.”

Howard Pryor, one of the show stewards welcomed Councillor Rich, who said he was delighted to open the classic car show which had become a real local institution, run entirely by volunteers who enjoyed organising such a popular event.

A display of Jaguar cars – many from the 1960s and 1970s – was this year’s highlight.

There were plenty of admiring eyes looking inside John Bishop’s 1969 Jaguar E type 4.2.

Joekan Kanaan (right), who used to be a Jaguar specialist calling himself Jaguar Joe, complimented Mr Bishop on the car’s condition. “It is in immaculate order,” he said.

Deputy Mayor of Barnet Councillor Danny Rich arrives in open top Bentley to officially open 10th annual Barnet Classic Car show at The Spires

Stewarding the cars on their arrival at The Spires was long-time club member Paul Johnson (above) who now lives in Cirencester but returns every year for the show.

“I love coming back to Barnet for the show and seeing everyone. It is a wonderful club, so friendly, and great fun to help with the show.”

Chris Martin, one of the show organisers, said the final count of the cars and motorcycles on display was 147 which was an exceptionally good turnout.

“We were vastly overbooked this year and had to turn people away – that’s an indication of how popular the show has become.”

Proceeds from the event were in aid of the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.

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Ample space for car parking and a free shuttle bus service for visitors to Barnet Medieval Festival over June 7 and 8 weekend

Moving the Barnet Medieval Festival – to be held on Saturday and Sunday June 7 and 8 – to a new site on farmland off Galley Lane has attracted heightened interest among military re-enactors who are looking forward to having more space for Wars of the Roses camp sites and displays.

Promotion of this year’s festival – which is being supported by a free shuttle bus service from The Spires shopping centre – is in full swing.

Festival director Dr Susan Skedd – seen above with supporter Peter Brown – believes the stage is set for what could be the largest medieval camp and re-enactment display staged in the town since the start of recent events to commemorate the 1471 Battle of Barnet.

A 12-acre field at Fold Farm – home of Lewis of London Ice Cream – offers access via Galley Lane which can be approached by re-enactors and visitors without having pay the ULEZ charge.

Moving to a new site for Barnet Medieval Festival -- to be held on Saturday and Sunday June 7 and 8 -- is attracting heightened interest among military re-enactors.

A free shuttle bus to the festival site will leave every 15 minutes from a stop in  Stapylton Road at the rear of The Spires between 10.30am and 6pm – pre-booking advised via www.barnetmedievalfestival.org

There will be a full programme on Saturday and Sunday of battle re-enactments, displays by mounted knights in combat, cannon firing and archery together with living history encampments and a medieval market, craft stalls and food and drink.

A special feature will be an exhibition of medieval art by Graham Turner.

Organisers hope the enlarged festival site at a new location with ample space for car parking will make up for the disappointment following the forced cancellation of the event last summer.

Dr Skedd said the move from the Byng Road playing fields to farmland off Galley Lane has given the organising committee an ideal opportunity to grow the festival and widen its appeal.

Entry is free for children under 12 years; £5 for children aged 12 to 17; £10 for adults.

Tickets sold on the gate or in advance via the website.

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Re-opening of Prince of Wales public house will help “restore” the heart of East Barnet village after over a year’s closure

After fearing the worst when the Prince of Wales closed its doors in February last year, residents of East Barnet village now have access to a public house and dining area which has been extended and refurbished as a result of multi-million-pound investment.

Kitchen staff joined the rest of a newly recruited workforce of around 60 full-time and part-time employees who were ushered in by general manager Rory McMonagle on the first day of business.

He told them to enjoy the experience of helping to launch the latest pub and restaurant to be opened by the Heartwood Collection which is expanding its chain of licensed premises with dining areas.

Early last year it had seemed touch and go when there were fears as to whether the former owners, Stonegate Group, might sell pub and its site for residential or commercial development.

So concerned were local residents they might lose the last pub in the village that East Barnet councillor Phil Cohen (above) worked with East Barnet Residents Association to raise a petition with over 3,000 signatures calling for it to be saved.

Barnet Council stepped in by registering the Prince of Wales as an asset of community value – a move which gave local councillors and residents time to see if they could find a way of rescuing the pub.

“The community campaign was so important because we think it helped persuade Stonegate that the Prince of Wales should be handed on to another pub group rather than sold for redevelopment,” said Councillor Cohen.

“It demonstrates how community groups and their representatives can have a real influence.

“Luckily Stonegate sold it to Heartwood who specialise in rescuing pubs facing closure and then in redeveloping their dining areas.”

Mark Derry (second from right), chairman of Heartwood, said he made the decision to recommend the purchase of the Prince of Wales because it was at the heart of a real community, and he thought that with the right investment it had great potential.

“We are very much a food-led business, and we are partners with Brasserie Blanc so we are a food-led business with a great tradition of cooking every meal from scratch.”

Mr Derry was joined for the opening ceremony by Councillor Cohen, East Barnet Councillor Edith David and Chipping Barnet MP Dan Tomlinson.

Councillor Tony Vourou, Mayor of Barnet, cut the ribbon to open the pub – aided by the Mayoress, Mrs Caroline Vourou, and general manager Rory McMonagle.

The Prince of Wales has a restaurant with 90 covers plus another 70 to 80 covers in the bar and terrace outside.

Mr McMonagle said he could assure East Barnet village that everything had been done to ensure that local residents would feel at home.

“We have kept the traditional bar area with the same layout as before, so it will be familiar to regular customers.

“Our bar has reasonable prices, in line with the local licensed trade, and our bar menu is affordable.

“We know that the Prince of Wales has always been a great community pub – a place where there have over the years there have been countless family celebrations, birthday parties and wakes.  So, we are here to welcome everyone.

“We have around 40 full-time and part time staff in the front of house and 20 in the kitchen and at least 80 per cent of the staff live in the locality and probably know the area and the community.”

After the official opening there was a ceremonial pulling of the first pint – led by Dan Tomlinson under Mr McMonagle’s guidance.

Councillor Edith David said she was delighted the Prince of Wales had been saved.

“It’s a pub at the heart of the community. It’s where generation after generation have enjoyed a drink and some food whether after a wedding or some other family event, which explains why we were all so anxious to save the Prince of Wales.”

Prince of Wales re-opens after closure for over a year and East Barnet village regains its long lost public house after multi-million refurbishment.

There is now a new sign for the pub which is on a site – close to the junction of Church Hill Road and Cat Hill — where there have been licensed premises since 1876.

The first licensee was William Jackson who built houses in the adjoining Jackson Road.

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Pupils share Hindu and Muslim affirmations of faith at Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School commemoration day service at Barnet parish church

Barnet Parish church nave and chancel were filled with the orchestra and choir of Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School for the annual commemoration day service.

Under their musical director, Mrs Gabrielle Wong the congregation was treated to an ambitious and well-accomplished programme including performances by the full orchestra, string quartet, piano quintet, chamber trio and a piano solo.

Team vicar Father Samuel Rossiter thanked all the performers and singers who had led the service “so beautifully”.

In his welcome, he congratulated QE Girls’ for the school’s excellence in education, music and community relations, attributes which he said were all the more important in a world which devalued the relationships which held people together.

He had a personal message for the pupils.

“There are girls like you who do not have schoolteachers and education support, girls who are not allowed to go to school, and who don’t have safety and fairness.

“Even here in the United Kingdom and the USA the world does not always feel kind or just.

“When you go out into the world, realise you have privileges, that you will have the power to change things, and that you will have the voice to decide whether countries should have schools for girls.

“So, use your privilege to make the world fairer than my generation is manging to.”

Father Sam said QE Girls’ should be congratulated for its diverse community where there were many beliefs, beliefs which were shared with a shared affirmation of faith during the commemoration service.

Nidhi Singh, a year ten pupil, affirmed her belief as a Hindu in the teachings from the Ramayan, one of Hinduism’s greatest scriptures.

An affirmation of the Muslim faith was given by year-eight pupil Tawakol Abdessalem who explained to the congregation that charity was important and that one of the five pillars of their faith was to give to the poor, needy and other causes.

For the act of commemoration, headteacher Mrs Violet Walker, read from a text first delivered at the school’s commemoration day service in 1923 – a custom which has been followed in recent years.

Mrs Walker’s recognition of the importance of the annual service of commemoration is shared by leaders of the Queen Elizabeth’s Guild, which represents former pupils at the school.

Barnet parish church nave filled with orchestra and choir for annual commemoration day service for Queen Elizabeth's Girls' School

Judy Wilson (far left), who is keen to keep the title guild chairman, and guild secretary Gill Williams (far right), were welcomed by the Mayor Barnet, Councillor Tony Vourou and Mayoress, Mrs Caroline Vourou.

The two former pupils who now lead the guild said they started together on the same day in the autumn term of 1957.

“Back in those days the school had only 600 pupils and we could all be accommodated quite easily in the church,” said Judy.

“We used to parade up the High Street to the church with the Police stopping the traffic.

“We were so pleased when Violet (herself a pupil at QE Girls’) became headteacher and started bringing back the old traditions. They do mean so much today.”

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Tea and cakes at Barnet parish church after climbing the tower – just one of the celebrations for the 80th anniversary of VE Day

There could hardly have been a better way to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day than to climb the tower at Barnet parish church, admire the view, and then round off the visit with a glass of Pimm’s or a piece of cake and a cup of tea.

There was a steady stream of parishioners and visitors walking up the spiral stone steps to enjoy a special VE Day celebration at St John the Baptist Church.

Sunny weather in the late afternoon and a light wind ensured almost perfect conditions to look out over London and Hertfordshire with magnificent views of landmarks such as The Shard, Canary Wharf and the Wembley stadium arch.

Keeping busy on the cake stall – see above – were Catherine Liu (left) and Kris Webb with the support of the team vicar, Father Sam Rossiter-Peters.

Whenever the tower is open to the public there is usually no shortage of people ready to climb to the top catching their breath halfway up in the bell ringing chamber.

Resting before the final climb were Bruno Roncarati – see above –who at the age of 90 was determined to take in the view. With him was his son Paolo.

Two guides at the top of the tower – Ian Peacock (left) and Jim Jenkins – were on hand to point out the sights.

Opening the tower to visitors was just one of the VE Day celebrations organised by local churches.

The anniversary was celebrated at the Monken Hadley Church of St Mary the Virgin with an evening concert of music and songs dating back to the 1945 with plenty of wartime numbers.

A ceremonial lighting of the beacon rounded off the evening.

Celebrations for 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day included visits to the top of the tower at Barnet parish church.

Brookside Methodist Church in East Barnet hosted an impressive display of wartime posters by members of the Barnet U3A painting group.

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Around 80 classic and vintage cars to parade though Barnet High Street ahead of annual show on the top floor of The Spires Car Park

A display of Jaguar cars will be the highlight at this year’s Barnet Classic Car Show on Sunday 18 May on the top deck of the car park at The Spires shopping centre. It will also be a special moment for club stalwart, Chris Nightingale.

In previous years, Chris has usually been busy assisting as a steward, but this year’s show will be a chance to exhibit his rare New Era Mini which is already looking spick and pan – see above — in preparation for the day.

A recent edition of the magazine Mini World devoted several pages to the history of the car — one of three versions of an early variant of the mini and the only one of its kind still in existence.

Preceding the show, which opens at 11am, will be the traditional parade of classic and vintage cars along Barnet High Street starting from 10.30am.

The final car in a parade of about 80 vehicles will be a 1930s open top Bentley which will have as passengers the Deputy Mayor of Barnet, councillor Danny Rich, and councillor David Longstaff.

Organiser Chris Frost is expecting about 150 cars to be on display on the top floor of the car park and the Deputy Mayor will open the show.

After giving pride of place last year to a display of Lotus Cars to highlight Barnet’s link to the Lotus founder Colin Chapman, the club is keen to display a range of Jaguar cars, a firm favourite with classic car enthusiasts.

One of the club’s Jaguar owners, Emile, is the proud owner of a Jaguar 420 which he purchased in 1994 as a rolling shell in which he installed an engine and manual gearbox.

He had the car repainted from Balmoral green to BRG green and has made other adjustments to update the car without compromising its integrity.

Display of Jaguar cars to be highlight of Barnet Classic Car Show after 80 cars parade along Barnet High Street.

Chris Nightingale’s entry, his New Era Mini — registration number POP 22 – was one of the early minis.

It was converted by his father Kenneth Nightingale at his garage in Birmingham which specialised in re-tuning cars.

When the mini was launched in 1959, Kenneth developed three prototypes of what he hoped would be a retuned and modified mini.

“My father specialised in tuning and body conversions and with the help of some panel beaters from the Austin factory at Longbridge, he streamlined the body work at the front of the mini and hoped to build up a successful range of mini variants.

“Unfortunately, my father was unable to attract sufficient investment so there were only the three prototypes and POP 22 is the last of the line – and can claim to be the only one of its kind in the world.”

Chris started the show in 2014 with the help of the club’s founder Owen Jones and says that such events are unmissable for classic car enthusiasts.

“For the enthusiast, the chance to look over a classic or vintage car is a moment of nostalgia, jogging the memory and taking us back to happy days.”

As in past years, the show will raise funds for the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.

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Garden decoration helps to highlight High Barnet events to commemorate 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day

Celebrations for VE Day marked with impressive garden decoration at High Barnet's historic alms houses

There is no mistaking an imaginative commemoration for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day on the lawns of the historic Wood Street alms houses of Jesus Hospital Charity in High Barnet.

A large V incorporating the figure 80 has been laid out on one lawn with a massive poppy on an adjoining lawn.

The displays are the work of gardener Robert Fenton.

His floral decorations are widely admired not only by residents of the alms houses but also passers-by in Wood Street who have been treated over the years to a succession of impressive displays for major state occasions.

A royal cypher and crown were marked out on the lawn to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in June 2023. 

Robert, who is helped by fellow gardener Brian Hewitt, works to scale drawings prepared by his partner Kate Walsh.

“The VE display of the V and the figure 80 is the official design and it has to be done to scale. My partner Kate makes sure they are dead right.”

Robert uses the charity’s 100-year-old hand-pushed cylinder lawn mower to cut the grass extra short so that the display stands out.

“It is hard work, cutting back the grass, and keeping it looking good, but every so often it is great to commemorate the big events, and we know how much these commemorative displays are appreciated by local people.”

In addition to King’s Coronation display, Robert marked out the Olympic rings for the 2012 games in London, did displays for the late Queen and one for Prince Harry and Meghan – an H and M with a heart in between.

Robert has been a gardener at the alms houses for over 20 years and takes care of lawns and gardens in Wood Street, Monken Hardley, Potters Lane, and Grasvenor Avenue.

Barnet Parish Church of St John the Baptist is commemorating VE Day with a tower opening from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday 8 May with a glass of Pimm’s, cakes and tea to follow.

A concert of music and songs dating back to 1945 with plenty of wartime numbers is being held that evening at the Monken Hadley Church of St Mary the Virgin followed by the ceremonial lighting of the beacon at 9.15pm.

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Summer events planned at Barnet playing fields at Underhill include a circus and music and community festivals   

Zippos Circus will be at Barnet playing fields for five days in mid-May – one of several attractions to be staged this summer at a much-prized open space where Barnet Football Club has applied to build a new stadium.

Organisers who have previously presented music and community festivals at other nearby sites such as Trent Park and Oak Hill Park, are switching to the playing fields at Underhill because of what they say is excellent access to public transport.

Other events already being advertised at the playing fields for later in the summer are the Eagle Festival of music over the weekend of June 21-22; the Ghana Party in the Park festival and the Mauritius open air festival which will be staged separately on the Saturday and Sunday of July 12 and July 13.

So far there is no indication when Barnet Council will make a decision on the application to build a new football stadium at Underhill.

Opinion is divided with Bring Barnet Back campaigning for the club’s return but with equally strong opposition being voiced by those against the loss of such a large open space which is within the Green Belt and beside the Dollis Valley green walk.

Barnet Playing Fields to host summer events including a circus, music festival and community fairs

The potential appeal of the playing fields as a location for music festivals and large community events might well be one of the considerations that the planners take into account when deciding whether the site should be redeveloped.

Advertisements promoting events at Underhill – previously held at Trent Park and Oak Hill Park – say the playing fields off Barnet Lane are an ideal location with excellent public transport nearby including eight bus routes, High Barnet tube station and New Barnet rail station.  

Zippos Circus is currently touring locations in and around London with its new show Bravo!

It will be at Acton Green from April 30 to May 6 and East Ham from May 9 to May 12 before moving to Barnet Playing Fields for five days – May 15 to 19.

The Eagle Festival (June 21-22, from 12noon to 10pm) is billed as a two-day celebration of “music, community and unforgettable events” with 20 “incredible artists”.

Facilities installed at the playing fields for the weekend of July 12 and 13 are to be shared between the Ghana Party in the Park on the Saturday (12noon to 8pm) and the Mauritius Open Air Festival on the Sunday.

The Ghana Party claims to be the biggest gathering of Ghanaians in the diaspora and attracts support from across the UK and Europe.

The Mauritius Open Air Festival offers the best of “Mauritius culture, music and flavour”.

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Wide array of attractions and refreshments promised for the return of Arkley village fayre and fun dog show

After the success of last year’s revived Arkley village fayre, the organisers are planning an even more ambitious event for Saturday 31 May at the village field in Brickfield Lane, Arkley.

An all-comers dog show will again be a highlight of what Hearts of Arkley are hoping will be another vivid demonstration of the friendly spirit and engagement within their community.

A host of events are being arranged including face painting, live music, children’s games plus a wide variety of refreshments.

The organisers are adding the final touches to the programme – seen above at the field village, from left to right, the Reverend Cindy Kent, vicar of St Peter’s Church, Arkley, Maureen Stevens, Karin Read, Iris Auburn and her dog Amber, Mel Garfield and Sue Rich.

Arkley Village fayre promises to be bigger and better than last year on Saturday May 31 starting at 12 noon

Last year’s fun dog show, which was run by Rachel Burke of dog groomers Beauty Barks of Borehamwood, has established itself as a firm favourite and once again locally owned rescue dogs might be among those competing for the rosettes.

Mel Garfield said they were determined this year’s fayre would be bigger and better than last May with an amazing array of attractions and hot food.

Raffle prizes will include items donated by Morrisons supermarket in Borehamwood which together with estate agents Statons is sponsoring the fayre.

For more information see www.arkleycommunityevents.co.uk or email info@arkleycommunityevents.co.uk

Proceeds from last year’s fayre are helping support several local initiatives including the construction of a safe, accessible entrance to the garden of rest of St Peter’s and the ongoing cost of maintaining the village defibrillator which is available for use 24/7 in Rockways, a cul-de-sac just off the Barnet to Arkley main road.

Karin Read, a trustee of the Arkley Association, said the fayre was the only summer event organised for the village and its revival last year had been widely appreciated by the local community.

Proceeds from the fayre also help to defray the cost of maintaining the village hall.    

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Barnet High Street about to become a much-admired showcase once again for the historic Battle of Barnet banners  

Recently restored and repaired medieval banners commemorating the 1471 Battle of Barnet will once again decorate the High Street during the summer months after Barnet Museum intervened with financial support.

A contractor will start the two-day process of hanging the banners from lampposts the length of the High Street from the evening of Monday 14 April – the 554th anniversary of the battle.

Each of the 76 heraldic banners illustrates the coats of arms of royalty and noblemen whose troops fought in the battle just to the north of Barnet on what is Greater London’s historic battlefield.

The return of the banners is a timely reminder of the annual Barnet Medieval Festival which is being held over the weekend of Saturday and Sunday June 7 and 8 at a new location on farmland off Galley Lane.

A 12-acre field will offer more space for Wars of the Roses re-enactments and camp sites for the opposing Yorkist and Lancastrian armies.

Organisers hope it will be the largest celebration in the town since the start of the recent events to commemorate the battle as more military re-enactors are expected to attend than ever before.

This summer’s re-appearance of the banners along the High Street had been touch and go because Barnet Council’s street lighting contractor told the museum that it was no longer able to afford the installation cost.

After the council found an alternative contractor who offered to do the work at a much-reduced rate, the museum agreed to fund the work from its reserves on a one-off basis.

Barnet High Street about to become resplendent once again with display of historic banners from 1471 Battle of Barnet

Museum trustee Scott Harrison – seen above in the museum’s shop in The Spires shopping centre – said there had been great uncertainty as to whether it would be possible to hang the banners in the High Street for what will be their sixth year on display.

“We have been so fortunate in the past in having the annual installation cost met by the council’s lighting contractors, but we were told earlier this year that the company had decided this was no longer a sustainable expense.

“Barnet Council found another contractor who would hang the banners at a much-reduced cost, but the museum is having to fund the bill of several thousand pounds.

“We have agreed to pay up this year, but we will have to find a sustainable source of funding. Perhaps we can arrange an appeal each year or find sponsors who will meet the cost.

“We do hope the people of Barnet value the banners so much that they will help to contribute towards the expense involved in hanging them along the High Street.”

As well as the 76 banners that will decorate the High Street, others from the collection of 107 banners will be on display in The Spires and at the museum.

A team of volunteers led by the museum’s deputy curator Hillary Harrison spent the winter repairing and repainting the banners. Those on display in the High Street are also reglazed each year to given them an extra coat of protection.

Each banner with its emblems or coat of arms belonged to an individual who took part in the battle and the challenge for the museum’s historians has been to bring to life each member of the royalty, nobility and gentry whose troops fought at Banet.

Sometimes symbols were used to represent people’s names or occupations and indicate their wealth and status.

The research conducted at Barnet – and so vividly displayed each summer in the High Street – has attracted considerable interested.

The latest group to visit Barnet for a walk along the High Street to identify – and admire the banners – are members of the Anglia Heraldry Trefoil Guild who are planning a visit in July.

Barnet Museum’s celebration and commemoration of the Battle of Barnet is not without cost. Currently the museum is applying to the National Heritage Lottery Fund for a £50,000 grant towards the cost of installing a new heating system and repairing leaky windows.

Because of the museum’s inability to maintain the correct humidity an exhibit on loan from the British Museum – displaying the Earl of Warwick’s seal and arrows from the Battle of Barnet – has had to be returned until the heating system has been fixed.     

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Barnet parish church hosts launch of historical novel by painter and art lecturer with a lifetime’s interest in paintings by Caravaggio

A lifetime’s fascination with the work of the prominent early Baroque painter Caravaggio has led to an unexpected twist in the career of High Barnet painter and art lecturer Keith West.

Because of his frustration at the failure of art historians to provide answers to unresolved questions about Caravaggio’s troubled life, West has written an historical novel – Caravaggio’s Boy – in which he explores the meteoric rise and fall from grace of the greatest Italian painter of his generation.

West is well known locally for his own religious paintings which over the years have been displayed at Barnet Parish Church, St Alban’s Cathedral, St Martin-in-the Fields, St Margaret’s Church, Westminster, and other settings and galleries.

His oil painting depicting the 1471 Battle of Barnet was unveiled at the Barnet Museum shop in 2019 during the 30th anniversary celebrations for The Spires shopping centre.

Holding the High Barnet launch of Caravaggio’s Boy at the parish church was an added honour because West’s painting Majestas Domini (Christ in Glory) is about to rehung in the parish church’s Ravenscroft side chapel which will also display his next painting, a newly commissioned Madonna and Child.

West (77), a long-time High Barnet resident, was formerly a lecturer and head of arts at the Camden Institute.

He came up with the idea of writing an historical novel about Caravaggio during the Covid lockdown, after his retirement from teaching.

“Since a teenager, I have always been fascinated with work of Michelangelo Merial de Caravaggio and his model Cecco de Caravaggio.

“I had acquired so much material during my research and preparation for lectures, that I realised I should have a go myself at answering some of the unresolved questions about his life.

“In the many books about Caravaggio, art historians offer their individual take on the who, when, where and what about Caravaggio, but they don’t answer the why, and they fail to explain why he became such a violent, touchy and provocative man.

“I realised I should not try to write another biography but attempt to fill in some of the gaps in Caravaggio’s life story and the background to the incidents that sent him into exile.

“By choosing the form of a novel I had the opportunity to speculate about the background to his paintings and the role of his favourite model, Francesco Boneri, who was known as Cecco.”

In recommending the book, the Very Reverend Jeffrey John, formerly Dean of St Alban’s Cathedral, said West had “imaginatively and convincingly” filled in some of the gaps in knowledge of Caravaggio’s life and that of Francesco, his model, student and lover.

“It is a rollicking story which vividly brings to life the violent contrasts of their time: the opulence and squalor, piety and corruption, sophistication and degradation of 16th and early 17th century Italy.

“Against this backdrop West’s expertise in art and art history gives fascinating insights into the genesis and genius of Caravaggio’s paintings.”

West’s painting Majestas Domini — which is waiting to be rehung in the Ravenscroft chapel at the parish church – is his reconfiguration of the famous Graham Sutherland tapestry, Christ in Glory, which is on display at Coventry Cathedral.

His commission for the painting came from the Rector of St Margaret’s Church, Westminster, where it was on show as part of the Festival of Christ the King in 2012. Later it was displayed at St Alban’s Cathedral and then gifted to Barnet parish church.

An earlier series of eight paintings by West, The Story of the Passion, was first shown at St Alban’s Cathedral in 2008, then St James’s Church, Picadilly and St Margaret’s, Westminster.

He is now working on a new small oil painting of Madonna and Child which has been commissioned for St John’s by the team vicar Father Sam Rossiter-Peters, and which will be hung in the Ravenscroft chapel together with his other painting, Majestas Domini (Christ in Glory).

“Father Sam wants the Madonna and Child to be culturally correct. I have just done the drawing. The baby’s arms are up which would be an anticipation of the crucifixion, and which would marry my Christ in Glory painting.”

West’s lifetime fascination with religious paintings began at the age of 16 on a school trip to the National Gallery when he first saw Caravaggio’s The Supper at Emmaus and realised it was different from every other painting in the gallery.

“When I became an art student, I went all over Italy to see every Caravaggio I could find, as well as to Dublin and New York. I think I have seen everyone.

“There are quite a few gaps in Caravaggio’s life story with all the tensions his immense talents and unique vision caused him throughout his career.

“From envious competitors who resented his popularity and cardinals who recognised his genius but objected to casting the poor as saints and a prostitute as the Virgin Mary.

“Art historians can’t speculate about these gaps and incidents, but a novelist can.”

Cecco, Caravaggio’s model, was the only companion of his Roman years to accompany the master into exile after the duel in which Caravaggio’s opponent, Ranuccio Tomassoni was killed.

It was after he was abandoned in Naples when Caravaggio left for Malta, that Cecco appears to have begun painting commissions.

West’s novel brings Cecco to life in an imagined career pulled together from scraps of information and a catalogue of paintings which indicated he was a talented painter.

Historical novel about famous Italian painter Caravaggio written by High Barnet artist and painter is launched at Barnet parish church

Caravaggio’s Boy, published by Vanguard Press, £14.99, available from Waterstones and Amazon

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Adventurous programme of lakeside concerts is planned for this summer in support of Monken Hadley Common 

Preparations are well underway for the most ambitious programme so far for the popular summer season of concerts beside Jack’s Lake at Monken Hadley Common.

Since the festival was launched in 2021, there has been ever growing support for the open-air musical evenings which are held in a woodland glade beside the lake.

Ilona Domnich (above right), the New Barnet opera singer whose idea it was to give people an opportunity to enjoy music and nature in a magical setting, has arranged dates for four concerts over weekends in June, July and August.

Her aim this summer is to feature more singers from musical theatre, to explore the versatility of the voice, and to include a greater variety of instruments for the chamber music.

Andrew Walker (above, left), chair of the Monken Hadley Common Trust which hosts the concerts, believes the expanded programme will appeal to a wider section of the community and increase attendance.

“We hope the concerts will bring along people who perhaps have never been to the common before.

“That will help us spread the word that the Hadley Common Trust which cares for the woods and lake is run entirely by volunteers.”

The concerts are free, but cash and card donations (£15 suggested minimum per adult) will be collected.

Proceeds will be shared between the trust for the upkeep of the common and for a bursary for a young musician at the World Heart Beat Music Academy in Nine Elms.

The four concerts will be on Saturday 14 June at 7pm; Sunday 6 July at 7pm; Sunday 20 July at 6.30pm; and Sunday 3 August at 6.30pm.

This summer’s theme is to explore different genres with concerts which explore the versatility of the voice in opera and musicals and bring in more musical instruments.

Ilona will be accompanied by Charles Mutter, leader of the BBC Concert Orchestra as well as other talented musicians. All being well they will include a harpist and an accordionist.

“We want the concerts to appeal to a wider audience and attract people who have never been before.”

Each summer Ilona finds the concerts are introducing people to classical music for the first time, including the anglers from the Hadley Angling and Preservation Society who share use of the lake.

“Often, after the concerts, anglers fishing around the lake come along and thank us. One told me that he usually listens to hard metal or rock but had loved the classical music and opera.”

For more details about the Jack’s Lake contacts: https://ilonadomnich.com/projects/hadley-woods-festival-music-on-jacks-lake/

Andrew said the importance of the concerts was that they introduce more people to the common and that gives the trust a chance to spread the word about how the upkeep of the common depends on volunteers.

“There is always a new challenge for us, trimming trees, maintaining footpaths, and looking after the dam to the lake and the weir – all sorts of different tasks.”

“The trust is a charitable institution, and it is the members who elect the trustees who are responsible for the common, so we are always looking for new members to come and join us.

“Holding concerts beside the lake is just one of the ways we can raise our profile and attract the attention of people who can give us financial support or join a working party.

“What better way to get to know Hadley Common than bring along a picnic and a bottle of wine or whatever and sit beside the lake and listen to amazing classical musicians.

“It is a chance to make a donation towards caring for the commons and supporting a bursary for a young musician.”

For details on how to join the Hadley Common Trust or to become a benefactor or concert sponsor go to the trust’s website www.mhctrust.org.uk or email treasurer@mhctrust.org.uk

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Fundraising Dinner

Join the Barnet Society for a fun evening, of delicious food, a raffle and a chance to meet like minded people to talk about local issues.

On Tuesday 21 March at 7pm we will be holding a fundraising dinner at Melange 135 High Street in High Barnet. The cost of the three-course meal will be £35 which includes Starter, Main Course, Dessert, service charge and your donation to The Barnet Society. (As our costs have increased, we have sadly had to raise our price slightly.)

Payment can be made here by credit or debit card or through your PayPal account. Alternatively, if you wish to pay by cheque or bank transfer, please email info@barnetsociety.org.uk to arrange.

Once you have paid, please email info@barnetsociety.org.uk to confirm your attendance and to receive the menu.

The deadline for reservations and menu selection is 14 March so please reserve your places soon to avoid disappointment. Raffle prizes will include some fine wines and delicious treats. All money raised will go towards the work of the Barnet Society to support our local community. We look forward to seeing you at Melange on the 21st March!

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Advice wanted on widening the Bull Theatre’s repertoire

There could hardly be a more opportune moment for a determined push to host new productions and attractions at the Bull Theatre in the hope they might appeal to audiences in High Barnet and widen public support.

In view of the nationwide theatre shutdown imposed by the coronavirus crisis, numerous events will have to be rescheduled and organisers are being reminded that there is an ideal town centre location available for hire.

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Battle of Barnet: beaten by coronavirus

Barnet’s highly successful medieval festival, due to have been staged during the last weekend in May, is just one of the many local events that are having to be postponed or cancelled because of the coronavirus crisis. 

Organisers have rescheduled this year’s festival from its original date of May 30-31 to the weekend of September 19-20.

Continue reading Battle of Barnet: beaten by coronavirus

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Former Barnet MP dies

Family, friends and constituents have been paying tribute to Sir Sydney Chapman, the former Conservative MP for Chipping Barnet for just over a quarter of a century, who died in early October.

His funeral was held (22.10.2014) at St Mary’s Church, Lower Heyford, Oxfordshire, where he had lived for some years since his retirement from politics.

Continue reading Former Barnet MP dies