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Baldock Issue 143 September 2026

www.onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk Baldock, Ashwell, Weston and surrounding villages

Welcome .Welcome to our September Issue We hope you all had a lovely summer and managed to enjoy some sunshine, whether you stayed close to home or headed off for a well-earned break. It has been a busy summer here in Baldock, with plenty going on locally. The Baldock Events Forum hosted its Open Air Cinema for the second year running, this time at their new venue, Hartsfield School. Three films were shown over the course of the event and it was really well attended. It was great to see so many people coming along and enjoying the evening. We look forward to seeing what they have planned for next year. For those of you who received exam results over the summer, we hope you got the results you were hoping for. It's also a big change for those parents whose children are heading off to university in the next few weeks. You may suddenly notice that the fridge stays fuller for longer, the washing basket doesn't fill quite as quickly and the house stays a little tidier! Our household has some changes ahead as our granddaughter is starting St Johns this year, which is a big step for her. She is also celebrating her 5th birthday in September, so there is plenty to look forward to.

Our four-legged friend has had a bit of an eventful summer too. He needed a small operation to remove the dreaded grass seed that had embedded itself in his front paw. With the dry summer we've experienced, there seem to have been more problems with grass seeds this year. After his trip to the vets, he came home looking rather odd, as they had shaved the rest of his paws and with the rest of his coat still long, it looked like he was wearing high heeled shoes. There are also plenty of local events coming up over the next couple of months. One of those is Baldock Rocks which takes place on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th September, with more than 50 bands and acts performing across outdoor stages around the town. Entry is free, Finally, we'd like to say a huge thank you to all our fantastic advertisers and to everyone who sends in articles and stories. .

Paul & Jacqui info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk or 07973 788418

SEPTEMBER

2026

A Great Success for 2026! So folks … as it's now four weeks since we struck up on the Thursday night in the rugby club clubhouse and then enjoyed three days of great folk and roots music I thought it me to give you a few thoughts and also thanks for the success of this years second Baldock & Letchworth Folk Fest…… Well to start with, this year we raised around £2500 for MND HERTS, for which the charity have asked me to pass on their thanks to the generosity of Sponsors, Ar sts and Audience alike which given numbers was most generous, especially it would seem on the Saturday night when also most alcohol was consumed!! The Standard of the Acts was phenomenal throughout and my thanks to all of you who performed this year and without excep on we would be happy to ask you back again if your diaries allow it. Next year's fes val is scheduled for JULY 22/25 2027. If you know you are available please let me know now! as planning begins here.

I think the ar sts would agree that the PA Staging and James the Sound Engineer were real quality and provided a great sound even when we had to take down the Dome on the Sunday. Also the clubhouse stage worked well and I d like to thank Ciaran P for all his efforts on the Saturday. Teresa, Ace and their bar and kitchen team did a phenomenal job over the weekend and as promised there was no rip off in terms of food and drink. Also all the food vendors who came and provided great food. Val must be men oned in hun ng down two extra kegs of Guinness on the Sunday. Many thanks to Rob at the Tree for providing these. To all our Sponsors, namely Ashe Roofing, Mc Cole's Accountants, New Holland Sheet Metal , Munford Print and Design, Norman Fleet, the members of Sandbach Rugby Club and several others who all helped. It is much appreciated. To my gang of fellow helpers in our whats app group, Gary and Paula, Shakey,

Teah and Kirsteen , Carole, Josh M Shelagh and Tony from the Folk Club, Viv from MnD. To all members of the Cambridge Champagne Breakfast Club who again provided such a great start to the day and make it such a memorable event. Also all of you who helped sell fes val shirts, programmes etc, Kirsteen, Madame Fiﬁ and all the others and for making Sunday so special for the memory of Chris and John and the others who have passed to the celes al champagne breakfast. To all who came and enjoyed themselves and the relaxed atmosphere. Numbers were up but there is always room for more! So please pass it on by word of mouth and tell all your friends. We do this for Community Craic and Charity! Brian Burke - El Pres

SEPTEMBER

2026

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Neighbourhood Policing Team My name is PC Durham and I am one of the three dedicated Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) oﬃcers for Baldock, working alongside PCSO Gordon and PC Ensor. Our role is to work with residents, businesses and partner agencies to tackle the issues that ma er most to our community. This includes an social behaviour, nuisance vehicles, shop the , community safety concerns and crime preven on. You'll o en see us carrying out highvisibility patrols, speaking with residents, a ending community events, delivering educa onal talks in schools and providing crime preven on advice to local businesses. Alongside this, we work behind the scenes to gather intelligence, safeguard vulnerable people and address longterm issues aﬀec ng the town. I hope to use this column to keep you updated on local policing ac vity in Baldock and Clothall Common.

Over the coming months, I'll share news about police opera ons, successful outcomes, community projects, crime preven on ini a ves and the work being done to address local concerns. One of the best ways to stay informed and keep in touch with your local policing team is through Herts Connected. This free messaging service provides updates from local officers, crime preven on advice, informa on about community events and opportuni es to tell us about issues affec ng your area. You can sign up at www.hertsconnected.co.uk Having worked as the neighbourhood officer for Baldock over the last few years, I've had the pleasure of mee ng many residents, business owners and community groups who care deeply about our town. If you see me, PCSO Gordon or PC Ensor out and about, please do stop and say hello.

To report an -social behaviour or other non-emergency concerns, visit www.herts.police.uk/report or call 101. Every report helps us build a clearer picture of local issues and target our eﬀorts where they are needed most. Always dial 999 in an emergency. Stay safe and thank you for your con nued support. . PC 1706 Durham - Baldock Neighbourhood Policing Team

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2026

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Dry Spell I am hopeful that by the me you read this, we will have had enough rain to at least turn the grass green again. We normally talk about our “summer” in inverted commas; we are used to umbrellas, not sunshades, and perhaps a light jacket or cardi rather than as li le clothing as we can legally get away with. Our cars are covered in an inch of dust, well mine is, because we haven't been able to get the hosepipe out for fear of the secret society of lawnshamers, who will report you to the water police. And who, in their right mind, would be standing out the front cleaning the car with a bucket of water in thirty-eight-degree heat anyway? I've heard stories of people scooping out their used bathwater to keep their prized petunias from shuﬄing oﬀ this mortal coil. If I were a prized petunia, I might prefer death to that. I'm not sure I'd fancy a bathwater cocktail either, but needs must when the rain clouds refuse to cooperate. Meanwhile, the ducks in the local ponds have had to stand by and watch as their luxury lakes shrink to the size of muddy puddles. They look thoroughly unimpressed, paddling around what is essen ally a large puddle with aspira ons.

Can you imagine if our homes did that? One minute you're si ng comfortably in the lounge, the next you're ankle-deep in mud wondering where the kitchen went. The RFU has delayed the start of the rugby season un l 26th September because of the lack of rain. Now I know a few of you don't really care about this, but I do. For at least the past ten years I have produced a fixture list for all senior sides for Letchworth (I make it sound a bigger effort than it is, because of my need to sound busy and important), and every year the RFU changes something just as I send it to the club so we can arrange catering and inform the players. Some mes the RFU changes it two or three mes before they are happy. This year was the first me that they got it right first me. No changes, everything in place, and I can't tell you how happy I was to press send. Two days later came the big announcement and I had to start again. It is the right thing to do; the pitches are rock hard and look like the Gobi Desert. Clubs that have watered their pitches throughout the summer are s ll repor ng hard pitches, and it has cost them an absolute bomb to be in the same posi on as clubs that didn't.

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We've even had a Na onal Emergency Warning from the government to tell us to be careful. I thought we were under nuclear threat and was about to ini ate Plan Get The Hell Ou a Dodge. Then I read it and calmed myself down by popping into the garden for a fag (ex nguished responsibly, of course). When the rain does finally arrive, I fully expect a complete deluge of water from the Heavens. There will be biblical floods and, if Noah was s ll around, the animals will be figh ng for ckets on the cruise. All hail the Bri sh climate. You can never rely on it to do what you need. Always have a sun hat and wellies in the car.

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VW Transporter Sportline For more than 20 years, the Volkswagen Transporter Sportline has been the UK's original sports van, combining prac cality with eye-catching style. The new 2026 model builds on that reputa on, offering sharper looks, improved technology, and a wider choice of powertrains, including diesel, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric op ons. The latest Sportline is available as either a panel van or Kombi and stands out thanks to its lowered Eibach suspension, aggressive body kit, glossblack detailing, Matrix LED headlights, and striking 19-inch alloy wheels. Volkswagen has also introduced a limited-run Sportline 75 Special Edi on to celebrate 75 years of the VW Bus, finished in exclusive Moss Green paint with bespoke styling touches. Inside, the Sportline feels significantly more modern. A 12-inch digital driver display is paired with a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Mul ple USB ports and charging points improve everyday usability.

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Eco-leather sports seats with red s tching enhance the cabin's premium feel, while the redesigned layout increases storage space. An electronic parking brake and steering-column gear selector free up room between the seats, making the cabin feel less clu ered. Load space has also grown, with the short-wheelbase model oﬀering up to 5.9 cubic metres of cargo capacity and the long-wheelbase version providing 6.6 cubic metres, enough for three Euro pallets. Kombi models beneﬁt from twin sliding doors and removable rear sea ng, allowing easy conversion between passenger and cargo use. The all-electric e-Transporter Sportline comes with either 218PS or 286PS. It takes 8.6 seconds to reach 62mph for the 218PS variant, whereas it takes only 7.4 seconds for the higher-powered variant. The diesel range includes a 170PS 2.0litre TDI engine coupled with an eightspeed auto transmission. Although slower to accelerate, taking 14 seconds to hit 62mph, it provides excellent midrange power and is ideal for longdistance load-lugging.

Note that if you want the plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) version, you'll have to wait, as it won't be available un l later this year. But whichever powertrain you go for, the lowered Eibach suspension improves body control and agility, helping the Sportline feel composed and confident on the road. The electric model uses an 83kWh ba ery and offers a WLTP range of up to 206 miles. Rapid charging at up to 125kW allows a 10-80% recharge in around 30 minutes. Diesel versions return approximately 34mpg. Overall, the 2026 Volkswagen Transporter Sportline successfully modernises the sports van formula. It combines great styling, advanced technology, strong prac cality, and a choice of efficient powertrains, making it an appealing op on for both business users and lifestyle buyers.

Fast Facts New 2026 VW Transporter Sportline (diesel as tested: Ÿ Max speed: 109 mph Ÿ 0-62 mph: 14 secs Ÿ MPG: 34 miles Ÿ Powerplant: 2.0-litre TDI Ÿ Power (PS): 170 Ÿ CO2: 216-220 g/km Ÿ Price £62,752 (£52,360 excl. VAT) for the Panel Van & £65,128 (£54,340 excl. VAT) for the Kombi

SEPTEMBER

2026

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Now that autumn's here After a dry and arid summer Wet days will appear (So long as Saturdays are dry!) Baldock Bard We're back 6.30 sellers, 7 am buyers See you there!

Baldock Oktoberfest 2026 A er a brilliant and very entertaining Baldock Beer Fes val in May, we're now gearing up for Baldock Oktoberfest 2026 on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th October at the Baldock Community Hub, right in the heart of Baldock. You must understand that Oktoberfest is not merely a celebra on of beer, it is a carnival of music and merriment. We've got a full weekend of Bavarian fun lined up with fantas c entertainment from the high-energy brass act, the Munich Maestros, our amazing Oompah band, and Baldock's

very own G 'Balstock' La Roche leading the fes vi es as our compere. Tickets: £20 for Friday night £20 for Saturday night £16 for Saturday a ernoon Every cket includes entry, your ﬁrst drink, and your very own Stein to take home! We'll be serving proper Bavarian lager, along with wine, spirits, so drinks, and non-alcoholic beer, keeping you well refreshed while you sing, dance, and conga your way through your me with us! On the Bavarian food menu we will have

Käsespätzle, grilled bratwurst, amongst others and a vegetarian op on. Fancy dress isn't compulsory, but it's absolutely encouraged. Dust oﬀ your Lederhosen for men and Dirndls for the ladies and join the Bavarian style fun! Tickets are only available at baldocktoberfest.org We hope to see you there… Prost!

Would your daughter age 5/6 be interested in joining brownies once she turns 7? 1st Baldock Brownies will have spaces for new girls in the coming years and would encourage anyone interested to add their daughter to the wai ng list now. We meet on Thursdays during term me 6 - 7.30pm at Baldock Guide HQ. Register online here: h ps://www.girlguiding.org.uk/ informa on-forparents/register-a-child/

SEPTEMBER

2026

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into the grey

practical magic 2

Out 9th September

Out 11th September

Written and directed by Guy Ritchie ‘In The Grey’ follows a covert team of elite operatives who live in the global shadows,. When a ruthless despot steals a billiondollar fortune, the team is sent to steal it back on what would be for anyone else a suicide mission. What begins as an impossible heist gets much worse, spiraling into an all-out war of strategy, deception and survival.

Practical Magic 2 returns to a world steeped in moonlit mischief and powerful ancestral magic, as the Owens sisters must confront the dark curse that threatens to unravel their family once and for all. The story takes place over 25 years after the original movie. Sally’s daughters, Kylie and Antonia, are now grown up and exploring their own magical powers.

Certiﬁcate 15

Certiﬁcate PG

Running Time 97 mins

Running Time 110 mins

heart of the beast

runner Out 11th September

Out 25th September

Hank Malone, a former soldier and high-end courier, is thrown into a brutal race against time when a critical medical delivery makes him the target of a ruthless cartel. He has only three hours to transport an organ (a new liver) to save a sevenyear-old girl. The mission turns deadly when the leader of a notorious crime syndicate becomes hell-bent on claiming the valuable cargo.

Haunted by PTSD from his military days, Special Forces officer James Belmont (Brad Pitt) suffers an inflight medical emergency that causes his plane to go down in a remote, brutal region of Alaska. accompanied by his fiercely loyal German Shepherd, Odin, Cut off from rescue, they must journey across 58 miles of brutal terrain to make it back to civilization

Certiﬁcate PG13

Certiﬁcate 15

Running Time 97 mins

Running Time 101 mins SEPTEM JU B LE YR

2026

1 25 1

M AY

2026

Baldock Gardens This month, I've struggled to find anything interesting to write about. All my customers who usually feed me with requests or enquiries have only been talking about the drought, the heat or when it's going to rain- if ever? I started to give it some thought, then while watching our local Look East news program, there appeared a large, beautiful moth, a wonderful hovering moth that everybody was getting very excited about. It turns out it has visited our area many times, and in fact we had an instance of it here at the garden centre back in July, on the 3rd and again on the 12th. The hummingbird hawk-moth is the most exciting moth to watch, even for those of us who don't usually get too enthusiastic over that sort of thing. Unusually for a moth, it hovers while using its very long proboscis to sip the nectar from the flowers. Elephant hawk-moths are another one to watch out for; this very pretty moth is most likely the culprit behind your badly eaten fuchsias. Sometimes found where rose bay willowherb grows at the edge of old woodland. Another species you might find is the Painted Lady butterfly; it comes from sub-Saharan Africa/Southern Europe, and it will have an extended breeding season and, along with southerly winds, will take to the wing to find a more reliable food source. As adults, the butterflies will collect nectar from a wide selection of plants, mostly purple coloured and clustered blooms. The caterpillars will only eat from a selection of their host plants: thistles, mallow and nettles. In the UK, you may see them from May to June; peak numbers will be July to August; and final sightings will be in September. There have been many sightings this year, one of the biggest years for Painted ladies. As far as I know, there are no official sightings in Baldock, but there have been in many parts of Hertfordshire, so they must be here waiting to be identified and reported.

The amazing detail is its full route, starting in Sub-Saharan Africa — North Africa — Mediterranean —Europe — United Kingdom — Scandinavia — Arctic Circle. Then the next generation will fly a reverse trip, all the way back—an enormous trip length of over 9000 miles. So when you see them, please treat them with great respect, as this trip is the equivalent of us flying from London Heathrow all the way to Mombasa in Kenya, and then the second generation will fly all the way back. There is another butterfly migration of similar length in America, Canada, and Mexico; it is called the Monarch butterfly migration. This migration is much larger in size than the painted lady migration, as they can be seen flying in vast clouds. Every year in March, the Mexican overwinter roosting site comes alive and starts its journey north, heading to North America and some into Canada. They start their return migration in September, and very impressive it is. In 2014, Susan and I were sailing the Rideau Canal in Canada when, while crossing the enormous Cranberry Lake, we came across a strange cloud slowly approaching us; it was the first wave of the Monarch southern migration heading back to the mountains of mid-Mexico, a total of 2100 miles. We were also lucky enough to see a mass Migration of African Monarchs while staying in Arusha, Tanzania; the hotel staff told us that you could tell the date by them, and you could more or less set your watch by them coming over the hotel. Sure enough, within an hour of the expected time, we were standing in the gardens surrounded by butterflies, a magnificent experience similar to being in a room when someone fires a confetti cannon; they were everywhere. The next day they had all gone. African Monarchs: As caterpillars, they feed on milkweed plants, which contain cardenolides, a toxic compound that they store, making the adult butterflies unpalatable to predators. Many other butterflies mimic the African Monarch, tricking anything that might eat them into thinking they are poisonous.

African monarchs are very occasionally seen in Britain when we have strong southern Sahara winds like this year, so we might be very lucky and get reports of them getting here; it is doubtful that they would get as far as North Hertfordshire. Eastern-bordered straw is a visitor this year; while classed as a rare visitor, the strong southern winds have brought them over, and they have been seen as far north as Derbyshire in a first sighting ever there. North Hertfordshire sees a surprising number of rare or unusual insect visitors, thanks to its warm chalk landscapes, farmland mosaics, and proximity to key migration corridors. Based on current records and verified Hertfordshire wildlife sources, these are the most notable rare visiting insects you can realistically encounter in Baldock, Letchworth, Hitchin, Therfield Heath, and surrounding areas. Purple Emperor — Now breeding in Hertfordshire woodlands after being historically absent. A spectacular but elusive butterfly, with males descending to feed on droppings and salts. Best seen in early July Clouded Yellow — A classic migrant from continental Europe. Some years bring large influxes; other years only a handful appear. Often seen on chalk grassland around Therfield Heath. ”Hypulus quercinus” is a nationally rare beetle; luckily, we have a few in Baldock. Herts presence: Only a few county records; one of the rarest beetles confirmed in Hertfordshire. Habitat near Baldock: Found in ancient oak woodland, deadwood in mature hedgerows. Weston Hills, Wymondley Wood, Ashwell Bury woodland edges. This species is tied to old oak ecosystems, exactly the type scattered around Baldock's chalk escarpment. Lastly, how about this one for a real local: Conopalpus testaceus, an extremely rare beetle, actually nationally rare, but found at Clothall Common, Weston Hills, Ashwell Bury woodland.

Graham

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5 minutes with... ...Aisha Omar from Hi, I’m Aisha Omar, a registered osteopath with a Master of Osteopathy (M.Ost) from the University College of Osteopathy. I have a par cular interest in chronic pain and rehabilita on. Alongside hands-on osteopathic treatment, I incorporate my training in APPI Clinical Pilates to help pa ents understand their pain, regain confidence in movement and get back to doing the things they enjoy. *Why did you become an Osteopath? I've always wanted to work in sport and healthcare, but a er fracturing my knee at 17 during my A-levels, I saw an osteopath who completely changed my perspec ve. Her k n ow l e d ge o f a n ato my, h a n d s - o n t re at m e nt a n d rehabilita on inspired me, and within two sessions I knew osteopathy was the career I wanted to pursue. *What makes your job worthwhile? Every pa ent who books an appointment has already taken the first step towards their recovery. The most rewarding part is seeing them realise they are the biggest part of that journey—regaining confidence, becoming more resilient, and achieving things they didn't think were possible. *What is unique about how you work? Every pa ent will receive clinical Pilates exercises from me. From scapular isola ons to pelvic rocks, each exercise programme is tailored to your ability, condi on and goals.

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2026

*Who has influenced you most in your career as an Osteopath? My family have been my biggest supporters from the very beginning, encouraging me throughout my studies. Professionally, my tutor and disserta on supervisor, Dr Danny Miller, has had the greatest influence on my approach to pa ent care. He taught me the importance of building genuine rela onships with pa ents, listening to their experiences, and understanding how pain affects every aspect of their lives—not just the structures involved. *What is the piece of advice you give to your pa ents most o en? “Consistency beats intensity.” Small, regular steps are o en more effec ve than doing too much too soon. Understanding your pain and building confidence in your body is a key part of recovery. *What do you enjoy doing when you are not at work? Outside of work, you'll usually find me in a Pilates class, trying out new cafés or travelling to run around a er my nieces and nephew!

What's mine is yours.

Ge ng a divorce inevitably involves making some important decisions, but does ge ng divorced automa cally mean spli ng the finances 50/50? Katharine Scoot, head of the family law team at HRJ Foreman Laws Solicitors in Hitchin, tells us more. How are finances divided in a divorce? Although many people assume that divorce automa cally means everything is divided equally, the posi on is more nuanced. In England and Wales, the court's aim is to achieve a fair outcome. In some cases, that may mean an equal division of assets. In others, fairness may require a different arrangement, depending on the family's circumstances. Does everything get split 50/50 in a divorce? A 50/50 division may be treated as the star ng point, par cularly where there has been a long marriage. However, it is not a fixed rule. The court will consider whether an equal split meets the needs of both par es and any children, and whether it produces a fair result overall. For example, one person may need a larger share of the assets if they are the main carer for the children and need to provide them with a suitable home. In another case, there may be a significant difference in income or earning capacity, which could affect how finances are divided. The court will look at the full financial picture before deciding what is fair. What does the court take into account? The welfare and financial needs of any children will be a key considera on. The court will also consider each person's income, earning capacity, property, savings, pensions and other financial resources.

It will look at each party's financial needs, obliga ons and responsibili es, as well as the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage. The age of each person, the length of the marriage, any physical or mental disability, and the contribu ons made by each party will also be relevant. Contribu ons are not limited to financial contribu ons, caring for children and managing the home are also important. What assets are included in a divorce se lement? A divorce financial se lement will consider all assets and liabili es held by both par es. This includes the family home and any other property, savings, investments, pensions, business interests, vehicles and valuable personal possessions. It will also include debts such as mortgages, loans and credit cards, as well as trusts, inherited wealth and assets owned before the marriage. Pensions can be one of the most valuable assets in a marriage, but they are o en overlooked. They may need to be valued carefully, and specialist input may be required to decide whether they should be shared, offset against other assets, or dealt with in another way. What is a Financial Consent Order? Once an agreement has been reached, it is important to make it legally binding through a Financial Consent Order approved by the court. A Financial Consent Order records the financial se lement between the par es. It can deal with the division of property, savings, pensions, debts, maintenance and other financial arrangements. Where appropriate, it can also provide for a clean break, meaning that neither party can make further financial claims against the other in the future.

Without a court-approved Financial Consent Order, financial claims may remain open even a er the divorce has been finalised. This means an ex-spouse could poten ally make a financial claim years later. Can financial arrangements be agreed without going to court? Many couples are able to reach an agreement without contested court proceedings. This can o en reduce stress, delay and cost. Some couples nego ate through solicitors, with each party receiving advice and proposals being exchanged. Others use media on, where a neutral mediator helps both par es discuss the issues and work towards an agreement. Collabora ve law is another op on, involving face-to-face mee ngs where both par es and their lawyers commit to resolving ma ers without going to court. If an agreement cannot be reached, the court can make a final financial order. However, court proceedings are usually treated as a last resort because they can be me-consuming and expensive, and because the final decision is placed in the hands of a judge. How can HRJ Foreman Laws help? Dividing finances on divorce is rarely as simple as spli ng everything down the middle. A fair se lement will depend on the circumstances of the family, the needs of any children, the assets available and each person's future financial posi on. Our family law team can help you understand your op ons, nego ate a fair financial se lement and ensure that any agreement is properly recorded in a legally binding Financial Consent Order. To schedule an appointment email info@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk or call 01462 458711 SEPTEMBER

2026

Baldock Rotary Welcomes New President Baldock Rotary Club has welcomed its new President for the 2026-2027 year. Thirty-ﬁve Rotary members, wives, partners and guests a ended a handover dinner at Letchworth Golf Club. A er an excellent meal outgoing President for 2025 - 2026 Paul Brown reviewed ac vi es undertaken over the last twelve months which included the long-standing tradi on of installing the town's Christmas lights and taking Father Christmas and the sleigh around the streets of Baldock and surrounding villages, organising Open Gardens and con nuing the establishment of the second Rotary Wood in grounds adjacent to the Equestrian Centre. Paul went on to say that on the fundraising front the Christmas sleigh street collec on, the Jazz Concert and Open Gardens had generated signiﬁcant funds from which charitable dona ons have been made. He thanked those who had organised fundraising and social events throughout the year and everyone who had supported Rotary's ac vi es both those who are members of Rotary and all those people from within our community who

SEPTEMBER

2026

gave their me and effort to make our Rotary events such a success. Paul commented on how being a member of Rotary provided fellowship and companionship in a world that can some mes feel unforgiving. During the past year dona ons have been made to numerous charitable causes. Interna onal chari es have included ShelterBox, empowering kids in Kenya, and par cularly Convoy4Ukraine. Closer to home some examples of dona ons made were to the Bri sh Heart Founda on, Resolve, an addic on charity, Na onal Axial Spondyloarthri s Society, Her ordshire Police Historical Society, Kidney Research and Addenbrooke's Kidney Pa ents Associa on. Locally dona ons were made to schools and nurseries, churches, Baldock Museum, Scouts and Guides and Garden House Hospice. Outgoing President Paul Brown then handed the Presiden al chain of office to new President John Wilburn who thanked Paul for his year of office and went on to outline his hopes and vision for the club in an ever-changing world.

President John went on to say that we will con nue to do the things that we do well and we will introduce new ventures and ac vi es to improve the appeal of the club in an effort to a ract new members, which remains one of our biggest challenges. President John then concluded the evening by giving the final toast to “Rotary and peace the world over” If you are interested in any aspect of what Rotary has to offer, please contact us on our website, Baldock Rotary Club, or contact our Membership Secretary, Michael Muir, tel. no. 07909 002631, email michael.muir@north-herts.gov.uk Rotarian - Paul Lucke

Too much choice out there? Spend more time deciding what to watch than actually watching something? LET BALDOCK'S RESiDENT TV GLUTTON HELP YOU ON YOUR MiSSiON!

Margo's Got Money Troubles – Apple TV Apple TV+ has built a reputa on for finding unusual stories and giving them a premium shine, but Margo's Got Money Troubles may be one of its most intriguing gambles yet. Adapted from Rufi Thorpe's bestselling novel and brought to the screen by David E. Kelley, the series takes a premise that sounds like the set-up for a broad comedy and turns it into something far richer: a funny, moving and surprisingly insigh ul look at modern adulthood. At the centre of it all is Margo Millet, played with enormous charm and emo onal intelligence by Elle Fanning. Margo is twenty, bright, ambi ous and convinced that life will eventually work itself out. Unfortunately, life has other ideas. A er an affair with her English professor leaves her pregnant, her college plans collapse, her finances disappear and she finds herself trying to raise a baby while barely holding her own life together. That might sound grim, but Margo's Got Money Troubles never wallows in misery. Instead, it finds humour in despera on and warmth in dysfunc on. Margo's a empt to keep the bills paid leads her into the world of online content crea on, where she discovers that a en on is o en more valuable than talent. As her unlikely venture begins to take off, her life becomes increasingly complicated, forcing her to balance motherhood, money, morality and internet fame. The show's secret weapon is Nick Offerman as Jinx, Margo's estranged father.

A former professional wrestler and recovering addict, Jinx suddenly reappears in his daughter's life just when everything seems to be falling apart. Offerman is pitchperfect, delivering equal measures of absurdity and wisdom. His wrestling background becomes an unlikely source of life lessons, teaching Margo how audiences think, how personas are created and, perhaps most importantly, how survival some mes requires a li le showmanship. Much of the series' charm comes from the wonderfully chao c family dynamic. Michelle Pfeiffer is tremendous as Margo's mother Shyanne, a woman who is glamorous, opinionated and en rely capable of turning every family gathering into a minor catastrophe. Pfeiffer clearly relishes the role, delivering some of the show's sharpest lines while grounding the character in genuine affec on for her daughter. Greg Kinnear provides strong support as Kenny, adding another layer of humour to an already eccentric cast. What elevates the series above many contemporary 'dramedies' is its refusal to judge its characters. Margo makes ques onable decisions. Jinx makes ques onable decisions. Frankly, almost everyone makes ques onable decisions. Yet the wri ng consistently treats them as real people rather than cau onary tales. The result is a programme that feels remarkably human, even when the situa ons become increasingly ridiculous. Elle Fanning carries the emo onal weight of the story superbly. She makes Margo funny without becoming a sitcom heroine and vulnerable without becoming a vic m. It's a performance that anchors the en re series and ensures viewers con nue roo ng for her, even when her life choices become harder to defend. Opposite her, Offerman delivers career-best work, revealing an emo onal depth beneath Jinx's gruff exterior that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. Perhaps the biggest surprise is how relevant the show feels. Beneath the jokes and family squabbles sits a sharp commentary on the economic reality facing younger genera ons. College debt, housing insecurity, precarious employment and the strange opportuni es created by the internet all weave naturally into the story. The series never lectures, but it understands that many viewers will recognise Margo's panic when the rent is due and there simply isn't enough money. By the final episode, Margo's Got Money Troubles has achieved something quite impressive. It starts as a quirky premise and evolves into a genuinely affec ng story about family, resilience and the lengths people will go to when life corners them. It is funny, hear elt and consistently entertaining, powered by outstanding performances and wri ng that is far smarter than it first appears. In short, don't be put off by the tle or the unconven onal set-up. This is one of Apple TV+'s most engaging recent dramas, a show with plenty to say about modern life while never forge ng to entertain. It's messy, hear elt, frequently laugh-out-loud funny and, like its heroine, impossible not to root for. SEPTEMBER

2026

September Gallery

Please send your local snaps new or old to our facebook page or email info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk

Jack & Hannnah looking oven ready - Tiffany Payne

Baldock Belles winning the area nal of the Top Club A wild patch at the junction Letchworth Road Julie Andrews / Weston Way - John Magill Happy Bunny

Hummingbird hawk moth in the garden. Clothall - Amy Felce Baldock Run Talk Run 6th Birthday

When the lm is about to startWallington and you’rerd poppy’s not in your seat, Baldock Outdoor Cinema Stephen Allenfun

Puzzle Break

Christmas Fayre Jane Evans Photography

Our word wheel challenge. Create as many words as you can, Christmas Fayre using the letters once Jane only Evans and always Photography including the letter in the middle of the wheel. Also, can you nd the 9 letter word?

Jane Evans

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be lled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

Matthew & Judy living their best life

When a 3D Printer Becomes a Workshop Bambu Lab H2D There was a me when owning a 3D printer meant spending half your evening levelling a bed, unclogging a nozzle and wondering why the plas c spaghe monster had returned. The Bambu Lab H2D feels like evidence that those days are rapidly disappearing. Calling the H2D simply a 3D printer is slightly misleading. At its heart it is a large, enclosed dual-nozzle machine, but Bambu Lab is pitching it as a personal manufacturing system. Depending on the version you choose, it can also add laser engraving, cu ng and plo ng capabili es. The headline feature for me is the dual-nozzle arrangement. Rather than endlessly swapping filament through one nozzle, the H2D can work with two materials, which opens up far more useful possibili es than simply prin ng something in two colours. Think support materials alongside your main filament, flexible and rigid plas cs in the same project, or simply fewer filament changes and less waste. There is plenty of room to work too. The H2D offers up to a 350 x 320 x 325mm total work area, while the 350°C hotend and ac vely heated 65°C chamber move it beyond PLA trinkets and towards more serious engineering materials.

Bambu also quotes extremely high movement speeds, although, as always with 3D printers, maximum speed and the speed at which you actually want to produce a beau ful print are not necessarily the same thing. What really makes the H2D interes ng is the amount of automa on wrapped around the mechanics. Cameras, sensors, automa c calibra on, ﬁlament monitoring and Bambu's AMS ecosystem are all there to remove the irrita ng li le jobs that tradi onally made 3D prin ng feel more like opera ng laboratory equipment than using a printer. Independent tes ng has also praised the automa c levelling and dual-nozzle implementa on. The op onal laser system pushes things even further. Suddenly the same box can print a component, engrave a design, cut material and poten ally become the centre of a small workshop.

That versa lity will be enormously a rac ve to makers, prototype designers and small businesses, but it also makes the H2D a substan al investment and a sizeable 31kg machine. This is clearly not the printer for someone wan ng to make the occasional Benchy. It is expensive, complex and heavily ed into Bambu Lab's hardware and so ware ecosystem. But the H2D represents something important. Desktop 3D prin ng is quietly turning into desktop manufacturing, and Bambu Lab appears determined to be the company that takes it there.

Matt WWW.THEGADGETMAN.ORG.UK

SEPTEMBER

2026

Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes, Sweetcorn & Basil At Eight, we're fortunate to have some excellent local suppliers on our doorstep, and I always enjoy building dishes around what's looking particularly good. This month's recipe brings together sweet tomatoes, fresh corn, courgettes and basil with beautifully roasted chicken. It's essentially a simple chicken dinner, but with a few little restaurant touches to elevate it. My wife would probably tell you that I tend to turn a straightforward family dinner into a "cheﬀy" plate of food. The girls have become accustomed to asking, “Is this a normal dinner or a restaurant dinner?” whenever I start pulling out too many pans! Thankfully, the dog is considerably less discerning and is delighted with either! This recipe will feed a family of four. Try to buy the best quality ingredients you're comfortable with and try to support local where possible. The Chicken - ingredients Ÿ 4 skin-on, boneless chicken breasts Ÿ 1 tbsp olive oil Ÿ 30g butter Ÿ 2 garlic cloves, crushed Ÿ 2 sprigs thyme Ÿ Sea salt & black pepper Take the chicken out of the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking and pat the skin dry. Season generously. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over a medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and leave it alone until the skin is deeply golden and crisp.Turn the chicken over, add the butter, garlic and hyme, and baste for a minute or two. Transfer to a 180°C fan oven for approximately 10–12 minutes, depending on size, until cooked through. The thickest part should reach 75°C. Remove and rest for at least ﬁve minutes. Roasted Tomatoes - Ingredients Ÿ 400g cherry or heritage tomatoes Ÿ 2 tbsp olive oil Ÿ 1 garlic clove, sliced Ÿ 1 tsp caster sugar Ÿ Thyme Ÿ Salt & pepper Place everything in a roasting tray and toss together. Roast at 180°C fan for 15–20 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to collapse and caramelise.The small amount of sugar simply helps bring out heir natural sweetness.

Sweetcorn & Courgette - Ingredients 2 fresh corn on the cob 2 small courgettes 1 tbsp olive oil 25g butter 1 tsp of smoked or sweet paprika Handful fresh basil ½ lemon Salt & pepper Remove the kernels from the corn and dice the courgettes.Heat the oil in a frying pan and cook the courgettes over a high heat until lightly coloured. Add the sweetcorn, paprika and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Add the butter, season well and ﬁnish with lemon juice and torn basil. Keep the vegetables slightly crisp rather than cooking them until soft. Quick Chicken Jus - ingredients Ÿ 250ml chicken stock Ÿ 100ml dry white wine Ÿ 1 small shallot, sliced Ÿ 1 sprig thyme Ÿ 40g cold butter Ÿ 1 tsp Dijon mustard Using the same pan the chicken was cooked in, gently cook the shallot for a minute. Add the white wine and reduce by roughly two-thirds, scraping up all those lovely caramelised chicken juices. Add the stock and thyme and reduce by half. Remove from the heat and whisk in the mustard and cold butter. Taste and adjust the seasoning. To Serve Spoon the sweetcorn and courgette onto each plate and arrange the roasted tomatoes around it. Slice the rested chicken and place on top, keeping the crisp skin facing upwards. Spoon the jus around the chicken rather than over it, so the skin stays beautifully crisp. Finish with fresh basil and a drizzle of good olive oil. What I love about this dish is that it proves you don't need dozens of ingredients or complicated techniques to make something delicious. And, of course, if you'd rather someone else did the cooking, we're always happy to oblige. Eight in Baldock is here whenever you fancy a seasonal dinner without the washing-up. Enjoy! Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Kish

Chef patron of Eight. SEPTEMBER

2026

8th September

Rosabella

5 Happy Birthday

Doug Hunter

7th September

Lots of Love Sammy

Happy Birthady

Nicola Piper th

11 September Lots of Love mum & Dad

OCTOBER BIRTHDAY ANNOUNCEMENT If someone special celebrates their Birthday in October, email us the details and we’ll print it in the next issue info@onourdoorstepbaldock.co.uk

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2026

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2026

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2026

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