Hannah Stephenson heads to Canada for a skiing holiday and is amazed by British Columbia’s slopes.

Cruising down Highway 33 in the heart of British Columbia, we stop to take in the fresh air and admire the snow-capped Monashee Mountains.

It’s snowing quite heavily, but we’re not worried, as there’s no traffic, no danger of anyone spinning out of control and careering into us. But then Highway 33 is no ordinary carriageway.

In fact, it’s just one of the 118 runs which make up the ski haven of Big White, a little-known gem of a family resort with plenty of snow all season, even at Easter when we visit.

Tied to school holidays, in Europe we’d been used to packed pistes, teeming with out-of-control skiers.

We’d opted for Big White after hearing that, not only does it have the emptiest pistes when it’s half-term hell in Europe, but also lashings of snow and little slush, even towards the end of the season.

An hour’s drive from Kelowna Airport, the resort was built in the Sixties and centres around a single main street.

It’s a magnet for powder hounds, with an annual dump of more than 24ft of light, fluffy, champagne powder - no snow cannons here because they simply don’t need them - while more leisurely skiers can comfortably tackle the network of tree-lined groomed green and blue slopes to the village centre.

We arrive for the last week of the season, and the slopes are largely deserted as locals, we’re told, are now busy polishing their boats and servicing their camper vans in preparation for summer, having long since packed away their skis.

The region of Kelowna is actually better known as a summer resort, when families holiday around the stunning 80-mile-long Okanagan Lake, set against the ancient mountains of the Okanagan Valley, home to many watersports and activities including bird-watching and mountain-biking.

Legend has it that the lake is also home to the Ogopogo, a close relative of the Loch Ness Monster!

While there are some more challenging runs, hard-core skiers in search of blacks can venture to the larger and more popular resorts of Banff and Lake Louise nearby, but they’ll be faced with bus rides, whereas at Big White you can ski to your hotel door.

From the minute we hire our equipment we feel we’re on another planet. The rental staff couldn’t be more accommodating, with an ethos of ‘How can I help you?’, rather than the ‘What do you want?’ attitude so prevalent in some European resorts.

We’re introduced to Byron, our mountain host for the morning and an ebullient, enthusiastic, larger-than-life ski guide, who shows us much of what Big White has to offer, from its gentle blues and greens to the more challenging powder bowls.

At the summit, we ski past eerie snow ghosts - trees covered with snow which has frozen solid and assumed weird shapes in the wind.

Byron eagerly leads us to Telus Park, an area comprising jumps and obstacles suitable for skiers and boarders alike, and the kids can’t wait to leave the starting blocks.

Even the designated chairlift for this dare-devil park is designed with families in mind, displaying a sign requesting people to refrain from smoking or swearing while using it.

On another day, we enjoy a family ski lesson, and as the week progresses, my children - William, 13, and Grace, 12 - both competent skiers, decide to try a snowboard taster session.

The beginners’ learning area is perfect for this, with a young, fun instructor and a magic carpet (a conveyor belt in the snow) to take the learners up the nursery slope.

There are plenty of other highlights for kids, too, including the Mega Snow Coaster - Canada’s largest resort tubing park, where you can zoom down specially built lanes in big inflatable rings!

There’s also a mini skidoo track, and bigger snowmobiles for grown-ups - fantastic if you want to feel like James Bond for an hour. We come away shaken, but not stirred!

Other activities include ice skating and a climbing ice tower. More sedate is a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the peaceful, tree-lined terrain.

For indoor family fun you can head to Happy Valley Day Lodge, a big building a short gondola ride from the village centre, where activities range from Wii competitions to carnival nights, and the restaurants serve up everything from burgers and fries to top class Alberta steak and fine local wines.

Grizzly Lodge, the condo-style hotel where we’re staying, is spacious and comfortable with a truly alpine feel, and amazing views of the mountains.

Our holiday also consists of a short stay in Silver Star, Big White’s sister resort, some two hours away.

It’s even quieter than Big White with one small main street, but offers the same amount of ski terrain, and is so colourful; the shops and hotels painted in a rainbow of bright colours, giving the place a Wild West-meets-Disney feel.

The trademark cinnamon buns from Bugaboos cosy bakery, where ski guides share stories with visitors about the best runs and the snow conditions, are delicious.

Our accommodation here is at the impressive Snowbird Lodge. Situated right on the slopes, it’s a real luxury, with a hot tub on the balcony, fully fitted kitchen and spacious lounge.

Everyone knows everyone here, so you can’t get lost, and the ski school is easily-located in the centre of town.

The front of the mountain at Silver Star is ideal for perfecting those parallel turns on green and blue runs, but venture to the back and you have a more challenging playground, with blacks and fun trails which suit kids who like jumps and bumps amid the trees (don’t miss Peanut Trail for this).

Both resorts are also havens for cross country skiers who want a good workout surrounded by nature.

We don’t spot any brown bears, but we’re assured they live in the mountains, along with chipmunks and grouse.

These two family resorts may be little-known to British ski hounds, because there are no direct flights to Kelowna from the UK. You have to fly to Calgary then hop on a short connecting flight.

But it’s worth it to escape the crowds. Plus, we feel as though we’ve discovered our own private winter wonderland, and the atmosphere is incredibly friendly and welcoming.

That’s what I call ski-tastic.

Key facts - Big White and Silver Star Resorts

Best for: Champagne powder, quiet pistes and family entertainment.

Time to go: Any time in winter, even the school holidays.

Don’t miss: The eerie ‘snow ghosts’ at Big White.

Need to know: In Canada tips are not usually included in the bill. The normal amount to tip is around 15% but don’t feel obliged if the service is poor.

Forget: Your lip protection, to keep blisters and dryness at bay.

Travel facts

Hannah Stephenson and her family travelled courtesy of Tourism British Columbia and leading Canada tour operator Canadian Affair, which offers Big White & Silver Star Ski Holiday this winter from £1,399.

Package includes return flights ex-Gatwick into Calgary, Westjet return connection to Kelowna, four nights at Grizzly Lodge, Big White, three nights at Snowbird Lodge, Silver Star, and transfers.

Return connecting flights to Gatwick ex-Glasgow and ex-Manchester from £140.

Various offers apply for early bookers on departures from Jan 2013, incl under-12s ski free, free ski carriage on plane, adult lift passes from £42 per person per day, lessons from £29 per person for a two-hour group lesson.

For reservations call 020 7616 9999 (London) or 0141 248 6777 (Glasgow), or visit www.canadianaffair.com

Ruby Sparks

This is either the ultimate paean to creative anxiety and morality, or it’s a pretentious chick flick that is a woe is me schmaltz fest.

Thankfully, thanks to some great performances and some neat writing the audience is left to make up their own mind entirely, which suits.

Paul Dano plays a successful, but lonely and blocked writer who imagines the perfect girl only to find her come perfectly to life.

The girl is played by the film’s writer Zoe Kazan and the chemistry is superb, and both actors, lovers in real life, don’t flinch from the dark results of messing with nature.

It’s the first film from directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris since their smash, Little Miss Sunshine and it’s another superb piece of Indiewood drama. Maybe.

Hotel Transylvania

You will be pleased to know that Adam Sandler has more to offer in animated form than he has in live action releases of late, but that’s not saying much.

This is decent enough kids fare about a hotel resort, where the owner is Dracula and he has to deal with his daughter falling for a stray boy tourist.

Harmless hokum but worth seeing for the majestic Steve Buscemi’s turn as the wolf henchman.

Private Peaceful

Adapted from Michael ‘War Horse’ Morpurgo’s novel, Private Peaceful, directed by Pat O’Connor, is trying, despite its protests, to be Britain’s answer to Speilberg’s War Horse adaptation. Unfortunately, much like our weather, America defeats us in this battle, but only just, writes guest reviewer Alison Devlin.

Opening the film in a small cell, prisoner Tommo Peaceful (George McKay) recounts his early life leading us to the reason for his imprisonment and the resulting execution.

Beginning as a young boy, the audience joins Tommo in his adventures through brotherhood, love, tragedy and the events in a First World War trench.

Starring alongside McKay is a recognisable cast including Harry Potter’s Richard Griffiths as the malevolent Colonel, Skins’ Jack O’Connell as Tommo’s charismatic brother Charlie Peaceful and The Iron Lady’s Alexandra Roach as the mischievous and flirtatious love interest Mollie.

What could be a great story is let down by poor pace and weak rendering of the narrative. Failing to focus and communicate the senselessness of war and ineptitude of commanding officers, fluttering between illegitimate pregnancy and a broken heart, the film fails to make an impact leaving the audience disappointed.

Despite the slowness of the film, it’s hard to follow all the different storylines that are thrown into the mix and you’re left wondering: “Was that resolved in the end?”. It’s not a life-changing film, nor even a day-changing film, it’s just an attempt at cashing in on the cash cow that is War Horse.

If you’re looking for a bit more creativity, see the play, a one-man show that brings over half a dozen of the main characters to vivid life that returns to the West End this autumn.

Recent figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders reveal a buy-to-let profit increase of five per cent in the second quarter of 2012 which is good news for current property investors.

Experts predict that this will prompt a surge of new landlords to the market helped by the government urging everyone to provide a pension for our old age and people weighing up ways of investing their money.

Kate Faulkner, spokesperson for The Property Investor Show, who has written six books on property, gives her top tips for first time landlords.

1) Plan your property investment

Before purchasing a property, be sure about why you are investing. Make a serious decision over how you plan to make your money and whether you want the income every month, capital growth or if you want to invest your savings and put them into a pension fund.

2) Pick your property type

Research what type of property you are going to buy and in which area. Be aware that flats are typically leasehold and under this agreement you may not have permission to rent them out.

If a property’s value appears too good to be true it usually is, so when considering the price, watch out for the drawbacks.

Leases with 80 years left or less are difficult to get a mortgage for and often require the buyer to pay cash. Renewing a lease can also prove costly so know this from the outset.

Many flats often have service charges and ground rent and the landlord is frequently liable, along with the freeholder, for keeping the flat in good order. When possible opt for freehold and, if you have enough money, choose a house over a flat – it will give you more flexibility.

3) Property rules and regulations

Find out the regulations stated by your local council. Never buy anything without a gas safety certificate, an energy performance certificate and always make sure you protect a tenant’s deposit. Also understand the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) outlined by your local authority.

4) Property costs

When buying a property it isn’t enough just to consider the initial price. Know what maintenance work will be required throughout the lifetime of your ownership and calculate this within your budget.

Make sure your property will continue to deliver. If you expect it to deliver capital growth above inflation of say, three per cent each year, that’s the average overtime. If not, you might be better putting your money elsewhere.

Once you have found a property, know how and when you can get out of this investment and what will trigger this.

If your aim was to put down a deposit of £30,000 and then sell it at a profit of £30,000 within ten years, and it meets this in five years, then it may be worth selling up. If your property doesn’t meet your expectations, look at what rental options you have, for example is renting rooms more profitable than renting the whole property?

Have a plan for your buy to let investment to survive for 15 to 20 years and track your properties return to make sure they deliver against your objectives. Have contingency plans, for example, do you know what to do if mortgage rates hit 7 per cent?

5) Legal and tax implications

It is important to take specialist legal and tax buy-to-let advice when purchasing your property. Typically, if you are husband and wife you buy under ‘joint tenancy’ but if you invest with a business partner or friend, it is better to buy under ‘tenants in common’.

It’s essential not to just buy a property and rent it out as there are continually changing legal letting rules and every authority interprets these differently. Make sure your letting agent is ARLA or NALS Registered so if they run off with your money their insurance should protect you from any losses.

If you don’t go through an agent, become a member of a residential landlord association to protect yourself and to keep up to date with the ever changing laws.

SATURDAY

Paddy McGuinness hosts another series of the unashamedly addictive dating show which sees a bloke bare his soul in front of shrieking, stiletto-heeled beauties and does everything he can to stop them losing interest in him and turning their lights out.

Those who are hoping to impress this week include a pair of Cambridge twins trying to nab a double date, a yoga instructor and a farmer.

SUNDAY

Friday Night Dinner 
(Channel 4, 10pm)

The concept of Robert Popper’s semi-autobiographical series is simple – each episode takes place over the course of a Friday night, as twenty-something brothers Adam (Bird) and Jonny (Tom Rosenthal) went round to their parents’, Jackie (Tamsin Greig) and Martin Goodman (Paul Ritter), for dinner.

This week, Grandma (Frances Cuka) introduces the family to her new boyfriend, who soon upsets everyone with his rude behaviour.

Dad cannot stand him and hides in his shed, but nobody is prepared for what happens when the guest suddenly loses his temper.

MONDAY

Sing For Your Life 
(Channel 4, 8pm)

You must have noticed that Channel 4 is on a bit of a mission right now? And as the broadcaster continues its fundraising campaign with Cancer Research UK, you’re about to learn a heck of a lot more about terminal illnesses that claim eight million lives every year.

As part of week-long campaign Stand Up to Cancer, this programme in particular focuses on the Big C Choir which is made up of an inspiring group of people, who have all been or are receiving treatment for cancer.

There are 35 of them getting set to show what they can do with a sell-out concert at the Royal Albert Hall.

TUESDAY

The Great British Bake-Off (BBC Two, 8pm)

Gingerbread coliseums, cakes that slice open to reveal a whole new design, beef Wellingtons that look like something you’d normally find in a medical textbook – we really have seen it all during this series.

But now the contest is drawing to an end and just three wannabe master bakers remain to battle it out for the title.

To clinch it, they are going to have to impress Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood with a signature pithivier (that’s a puff pastry pie to non-baking experts), a batch of fondant fancies, and their final showstopper, which will be made using the notoriously difficult chiffon sponge. Who will rise to the challenge? Wednesday 17/10/12

WEDNESDAY

Emmerdale (ITV1, 7pm)

This week the randy rural soap is turning 40, and marking the milestone with a live episode. There are two weddings and two new arrivals on the cards, so there’s lots of action in store – but watch out for the weather, as there are outdoor scenes planned and there’s no plan B if the heavens open.

THURSDAY

Hebburn (BBC Two, 10pm)

New six-part sitcom takes place in a small Tyneside town, with rising comic Chris Ramsey, Vic Reeves and Gina McKee all in the cast. Think Gavin & Stacey meets the Likely Lads – it looks promising.

FRIDAY

Stand Up to Cancer 
(Channel 4, 7.30pm)

Now Alan Carr, Davina McCall and Christian Jessen host a marathon fundraiser they hope will inspire people to hand over the cash needed to help researchers trying to find a cure.

The all-star line-up, which includes Cheryl Cole, Leona Lewis, Derren Brown, David Hasselhoff, The Simpsons, Bradley Cooper, Kylie Minogue, Tom Daley, Jimmy Carr and Anna Friel, plus many more.

Carr says: “I’ve seen exactly how destructive the big C is. I’ve lost two people already this year to cancer. We need to raise a lot of money.”

Vintage ice cream van Elsie now has a little sister to help her owner survive during winter.

Hilary Gardener, 44, of South Park Gardens, Berkhamsted, began Elsie’s in March and has since been booked to cater for weddings, film sets and more.

But she said: “Elsie is a 1970s van and does not like starting when it gets cold, so I thought I would get Little Elsie for indoor events in the winter.”

Hilary has now passed control of her other business, Ladies With Ladders, to husband Steve Atkinson, 49, so she can concentrate on Elsie’s.

The window-cleaning business has since been renamed Lads with Ladders.

Ice cream bicycle Little Elsie did her first event on Sunday at a fundraiser for Northchurch-based The Hospice of St Francis at Norrington End, Redbourn.

In the wake of a spate of looming energy price rises, landlords are being urged to take advantage of new energy efficiency initiatives.

Energy company British Gas has joined SSE, which trades as Scottish Hydro, Swalec and Southern Electric, in announcing that it will increase its domestic gas and electricity prices.

British Gas will raise its prices by an average of six per cent next month and it is predicted that the other energy suppliers will follow suit.

The NLA encourages landlords to help their tenants find solutions to the rising cost of energy by taking advantage of the Government’s Green Deal scheme.

Under the Green Deal, the cost of energy efficiency improvements, such as loft and cavity wall insulation, will be paid through a loan attached to the property’s energy bills. Due to the energy saved by the improvements, the energy bill will never be higher than it would have been if the work had not been carried out.

NLA chairman David Salusbury said: “The energy company price rise is now a twice-yearly affair and naturally a cause of concern for many. Landlords looking to help their tenants reduce their energy bills should take advantage of the Green Deal.

“The Golden Rule of the Green Deal means that tenants’ energy bills will never be more than if the energy efficiency measures had not been installed.

“We hope that the Green Deal will help tenants reduce their energy consumption, in turn easing the impact of any energy price rises”.

{http://www.landlords.org.uk/news-campaigns/campaigns/green-deal|Click here for more information about how landlords and tenants can take advantage of the Green Deal}

The Akeman in Tring is hoping the Olympic and Paralympic games and the Tour de France this year will inspire people to take part in its Cycle Sportive 70k or 50k challenge.

The event is taking place for the second year and this year’s route on Sunday, October 21 will take cyclists on a circular route from The Kings Arms Hotel in Berkhamsted through Great Gaddesden, Aldbury, Wendover and Northchurch before heading back to the hotel.

Registration opens at 7.30am.

Are you dancing in your street? Or does the state of your street give you the hill street blues?

Living Streets has launched The State of Our Streets Awards to find the best and worst-kept streets in the UK.

Whether you’re quietly fuming about cracked and broken pavements or if you love the street where you live, this is the opportunity to make your nomination for the Living Streets’ State of Our Streets Awards.

The national charity is inviting the public to upload their photographs or videos of the local streets they love or loathe to find the best and the worst examples of street maintenance in the country.

An independent judging panel will announce the ‘winners’ of each category in mid-November and the best overall submission will win a digital camera.

Living Streets chief executive Tony Armstrong said: “This is an opportunity for the public to show how important their local area is to them either by highlighting an example of neglect, perhaps a long outstanding repair on their street or a lack of crossing points for pedestrians on a busy road; or by celebrating something which enhances the urban environment and makes walking more enjoyable, maybe a pedestrianised area in their local town, attractive planting on their street or seats which might be a boon for older people.

“Not only will this give a snap shot of how the UK’s streets look, but we hope this will also demonstrate to local authorities that people do care about their streets and they are an important priority for local communities.”

{http://www.livingstreets.org.uk/SOSawards|For further information or to upload your photograph of the part of your local streets you love or hate visit click here}

Step this way for a ride on an express elevator to hell…

Meet Frank. He’s a small-time drug pusher, played with a wide-eyed, realistic feeling charisma by the excellent Richard Coyle – who, incidentally, looks a lot like my good pal Mike.

In just one week, Frank’s life completely falls apart, and the film takes viewers along for the nail biting, ill-fated ride.

This is an English language remake of a Danish tale of the same name by Drive director Nicolas Winding Refn.

If you know the original then you’ll know exactly what to expect – a big deal is on the offing which goes wrong and leaves Frank in a £55,000 hole to Milo – Zlatko Buric reprising his menacing role from the original.

With just two days to pay back the money, Frank begins to desperately call in favours from his friends and family – and when his last chance risky drug import plan from Amsterdam goes belly up, he has to resort to crazed violent measures in order to try and save his kneecaps.

Pusher looks the business, a fantastic blend of drab lesser-seen parts of London mixed with throbbing neon-lit clubs and stark interiors.

The visual flair of the film is great, if you look carefully, there are icons such as the face of Jesus, skulls, subliminal messages and the like, hidden – and some not so hidden, mirroring Frank’s increased desperation – on walls, in paintings, on windows and the like.

This is a brilliant move as it gives a whole extra level of depth to the proceedings.

The soundtrack has been amped up, too, thanks to dance music legends Orbital who have created a superb album of tracks to go along with the movie.

As Frank’s life falls apart before his very eyes, his long suffering girlfriend Flo – the gorgeous model turned actress Agyness Deyn – doesn’t know whether to stick with him or cut her losses and run.

So we have a scary escalation of violence that feels disturbingly plausible.

Crime boss Milo is a walking, talking one-man government anti drugs campaign, if having anything to do with drugs means mixing with such monsters.

Director Luis Prieto delivers a very watchable, gritty and exciting crime odyssey – but even with great performances and cool flashy visuals, this can’t quite match the sheer energy of the original.

Don’t do drugs, do go see Pusher.

Recent details of applications made to Dacorum Borough Council for planning permission to carry out development include the following proposals.

Applications and accompanying plans can be viewed at Planning Reception, Ground Floor, Civic Centre, Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, from 8.45am to 5.15pm Monday to Thursday and from 8.45am to 4.45pm on Friday.

4/00717/12/Fha and 4/00718/12/Lbc, Conversion Of Barn Into A Games Room And Installation Of Swimming Pool In The Garden, Delmerend Farm, Delmerend Lane, Flamstead, Al3 8Er

4/01564/12/Ret, Pergola, 32 Egerton Road, Berkhamsted, Hp4 1Du

4/01589/12/Ful, Mezzanine Floor, Unit 4, Maylands Business Centre, Redbourn Road, Hemel Hempstead, Hp2 7Es

4/01617/12/Fha, Retention Of Single Storey Extension. Cctv Cameras And Construction Of Bin Shelter, 20 Butterfly Crescent, Nash Mills, Hp3 9Gs

4/01677/12/Mma, Demolition Of Existing Garage, Swimming Pool And Fitness Room And Construction Of New Detached Dwelling, Minor Material Amendments To Planning Permission 4/00629/11/Ful To Allow Loft Conversion, Land At 111, Belswains Lane, Hemel Hempstead.

4/01757/12/Fha, Single Storey Link Between House And Garage, Highfield, Shootersway Lane, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3Np

4/01775/12/Res, Submission Of Reserved Matters (Appearance, Landscaping, Layout And Scale) Pursuant To Outline Planning Permission 4/00152/12/Moa (Demolition Of Existing Unit And Construction Of Replacement Retail Unit With All Matters Reserved Except Access), Former Mfi Site, Redbourn Road, Hemel Hempstead, Hp2 7Ba

4/01779/12/Ldp, Raise Gable Wall, Rear Dormer Window And Velux To The Front Roof Slope, 37 Tresco Road, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3La

4/01780/12/Ful, Application For Temporary Planning Permission For Use Of Land For Filming: Works To Include Formation Of A Mobile Rig And Associated Structures, Use Of Area Of Hardstanding For Parking And Storage And Associated Access, Bovingdon Airfield, Chesham Road, Bovingdon

4/01785/12/Ful, Demolition Of Existing Function Hall, And Redevelopment With Six Houses ( Four X 3-Bed And Two X 2-Bed) With Associated Parking And Amenity Space, New Mill Social Centre, Gamnel, Tring, Hp23 4Jl

4/01788/12/Drc, Details Of Site Completion Report As Required By Condition 7 Of Planning Permission 4/02804/07/Ful (Six 2-Bed Dwellings), 250 Cotterells, Hemel Hempstead, Hp1 1Jp

4/01798/12/Ful, Change Of Use From B1a (Office) To A2 (Financial Services), Suite 1 & 2, The Bridge, 1-11, Bridge Street, Hemel Hempstead.

4/01799/12/Fha, Single Storey Front Extension And Removal Of Chimney Stack, Bremhill, The Common, Potten End, Hp4 2Qf

4/01800/12/Mfa, Demolition Of Existing Building And Construction Of 36 Bedroom Residential Care Home With Parking, Tree Protection And Gardens. Kings Langley Delivery Office, 32 High Street, Kings Langley, Wd4 8Aa

4/01802/12/Fha, Two Storey Rear Extension, 34 George Street, Berkhamsted, Hp4 2Eg

4/01804/12/Fha, Three Rear Dormers, First Floor Rear Infill Extension And Privacy Screen To Existing Roof Terrace, Grey Stoke, Cross Oak Road, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3Na

4/01807/12/Ret, Construction Of Wooden Shed In Rear Garden, 8 Frances Mews, Nash Mills, Hp3 9Gr

4/01809/12/Drc, Details Of Car Parking Layout And Site Management Plan For Control Of Traffic Entering And Leaving The Site As Required By Conditions 2 And 3 Of Planning Permission 4/00062/12 (Change Of Use Of Garage/Store To Shop), Hemel Food Garden, Central Nursery, Two Waters Road, Hemel Hempstead, Hp3 9By

4/01811/12/Fha, Single Storey Rear Extension, 97 Longfield Road, Tring, Hp23 4df

4/01812/12/Ful, Construction Of Two Storey Dwelling To Rear, 97 Adeyfield Road, Hemel Hempstead, Hp2 5Eb

4/01813/12/Sco, New College, Food Superstore And Petrol Filling Station - Request For A Scoping Opinion Under Regulation 13 West Herts College And Civic Centre, Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead.

4/01815/12/Ful, Change Of Use From Shop (A1) To Estate Agent (A2), 14 High Street, Bovingdon, Hemel Hempstead, Hp3 0Hq

4/01817/12/Ful, Change Of Use Of Vacant Public House To Dwelling House. Royal Oak, Bovingdon Green, Bovingdon, Hp3 0Lz

4/01822/12/Ldp, Rear Dormer Window, 13 Queens Road, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3Hu

4/01824/12/Tpo, Works To Horse Chestnut Trees, 1 Ballinger Court, Upper Ashlyns Road, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3Bx

4/01825/12/Fha, Single Storey Rear Extension, 31 Delmar Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, Hp2 4Lz

4/01827/12/Tpo, Work To Trees, 9 Barncroft Road, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3Nl

4/01829/12/Ful, Construction Of Two 3-Bedroom Dwellings With Off Road Parking (Amended Scheme), 11 Bank Mill, Berkhamsted, Hp4 2Er

4/01830/12/Lbc, Insertion Of Reversible Internal Ancillary Accommodation With Mezzanine Terrace Above, Within Existing Ancillary Barn Space Retaining Parking And Internal Garden To Unconverted Third Bay. Great Barn, Castle Hill Farm, Castle Hill, Berkhamsted, Hp4 1Hh

4/01831/12/Fha, Part Single Storey, Part First Floor Rear Extension. First Floor Window To Front Elevation 81 Shrublands Avenue, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3Jg

4/01834/12/Drc, Details Of Materials And Landscaping Required By Condition 3 & 5 Of Planning Permission 4/00817/12/Ful. Land At Minoan Drive, Hemel Hempstead

4/01836/12/Ful, Construction Of A Poppy War Memorial, Land Outside 244 And 246, Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, Hp1 1Bj

4/01838/12/Ful, Steel Framed Agricultural Building, Land At Berrybush Farm, Langley Lodge Lane, Kings Langley, Wd4 8Qn

4/01839/12/Fha, Single Storey Rear Extension 11 Mountfield Road, Hemel Hempstead, Hp2 5Dr

4/01842/12/Fha, Conservatory, 8 Wrensfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hp1 1Rn

4/01843/12/Tca, Fell Sycamore, The Hollow, Toms Hill Road, Aldbury, Hp23 5sa

4/01845/12/Drc, Details Of Condition 2 Samples Of Materials (For Garage Only) Associated With Permission 4/02045/11/Fha And 4/02124/11/Lbc (Replacement Single Storey Rear Extension. Rear Dormer And Internal Alterations. Detached Garage), 12 Ringshall Road, Ringshall, Hp4 1Nd

4/01846/12/Fha, First Floor Side Extension And New Roof Over Existing Dormers (Amended Scheme), 30 Finch Road, Berkhamsted, Hp4 3Lq

4/01847/12/Fha, Alterations From Crown To Hipped Roof, Kilve, Megg Lane, Chipperfield, Wd4 9Jw

4/01848/12/Adv, Non-Illuminated Signage To Customer Collection Pod And Canopy, Tesco, Jarman Way, Hemel Hempstead, Hp2 4Js

4/01849/12/Cac, Demolition Of Existing Building And Construction Of 36 Bedroom Residential Care Home With Parking, Tree Protection And Gardens, Kings Langley Delivery Office, 32 High Street, Kings Langley, Wd4 8Aa

Buyers who are considering purchasing older properties or undertaking renovation projects can now access greater information about the overall condition of the property with the new RICS Building Survey.

Consumers are becoming increasingly less inclined to rely purely on lender information when taking out mortgages, and older or more unusual homes often require a greater level of repair and improvement.

The RICS Building Survey has been designed with this type of property in mind and provides the buyer with a comprehensive analysis of the property.

Armed with this information, the buyer then has the option to potentially renegotiate the price or take or leave an offer with increased confidence about their investment. I

In April 2012, the consumer magazine Which? recommended that consumers commission RICS members to carry out structural surveys when buying, selling or improving a home.

The survey provides a comprehensive and easy to understand report on all aspects of the property, including a full breakdown on the fabric and condition of the property, with a diagnosis of defects, and repairs and maintenance advice.

Mortgage lenders, estate agents and solicitors recognise their role in providing buyers with best advice about obtaining their own independent survey over and above a valuation for the lender and the need to speak to a chartered surveyor to establish what type of service is best suited.

Estate agent John Pocock said: “Older or more unusual properties often require more renovation work than newer homes. When purchasing a property like this, or taking on a development project, it is important that buyers know exactly what they are getting themselves into.

“The new RICS Building Survey offers a detailed assessment of a property’s condition and is designed with more unusual homes in mind. Commissioning a survey helps homebuyers to make a more informed decision on their purchase, and gives them greater negotiating power.”

Harvest time at Frithsden Vineyard attracted crowds of neighbours who help to pick and process the grapes every year to make local wine.

There was not as much work to do at the weekend in comparison to previous years because the cold wet summer had resulted in yield which has been reduced by half.

The workers were treated to a chilli con carne as a thank you for their efforts.

It was the same story last year for the vines behind The Alford Arms pub but it hasn’t put off owners Simon and Natalie Tooley from hosting an opening and fair this Saturday at the Vineyard from 12pm to 5pm. People will be able to try and buy their Chiltern White, Chiltern Flint and Chiltern Rose.

Natalie will also be selling pieces from her clothing range Calla Lily and entertainment will be provided by Morris dancers.

More than £300,000 will be spent on restoring Tring Park to transform it from a quiet beauty spot into a major visitor attraction for the town.

Its 19th century lime avenue and parkland as well as the chalk grassland habitats will be spruced up.

It is part of a project to link it with the Natural History Museum on Akeman Street so together they can become an experience similar to the Ashridge Estate.

The target is to increase visitor numbers three-fold from 25,000 to 75,000 with a campaign to promote what will be called Experience Tring.

The vision is for people to go on guided walks and learn about the park’s history and heritage. There will be welcome signs at the park and information points and signs around town directing people to it.

A planning application was submitted at the beginning of the year to turn Dawes Meadow off Hastoe Lane into a car park.

The Woodland Trust, which manages the park, and the museum are getting the £329,000 project under way thanks to a Heritage Lottery Fund grant.

Woodland Trust spokesman Chris Hickman said: “One of the first things we will be doing is recruiting people. A project officer will overlook the works and take on volunteers.

“We need community people, who know the history of the town and park, to promote it to groups, schools and organisations.”

Volunteer opportunities include conservation, helping to raise awareness, and delivering educational activities.

A tender has gone out for the work, which is expected to start in the New Year and take three to four years to complete.

Mayor of Tring Councillor Nick Hollinghurst said: “The Woodland Trust has a good track record in preserving and enhancing the natural environment while improving.”

A Mr Stink extra said that people in Hemel Hempstead town centre gathering around to watch the filming made the experience even more enjoyable.

Philip Bailey was hired to do a walk-on part in the adaptation of the children’s book by David Walliams, which was filmed in locations around the town last week .

He joined stars Pudsey the dog and Sheridan Smith outside the Marlowes Shopping Centre last Wednesday where they filmed scenes for the film, which is planned to be aired on BBC1 at 5pm on Christmas Day.

He said: “It was exciting because of the fact that I lived in Hemel Hempstead for 10 year since 1977 and worked at Lucas Aerospace, which was a major employer in the town, so there were a lot of friends, former colleagues and acquaintances stopping to say hello and not actually realising I was being filmed.”

Philip, who lives in Luton, had a walk-on part with Gavin and Stacey star Smith, who plays the mother to the main character, 12-year-old Chloe.

He said: “They needed a black person to walk past while Sheridan was making a speech. When she said ‘I have a dream’ I had to stop in my tracks but then she starts going on about how asylum seekers should go elsewhere so I get disinterested and continue walking.

“I also saw Pudsey the dog and other stars but I didn’t approach anyone because that’s not the etiquette for extras.

A website has been launched to attract more visitors to towns like Berkhamsted and Tring.

The Visit Chilterns site that went live on Tuesday features Tring Local History Museum, The Grand Union Canal, College Lake and Tring Brewery as places to visit.

For Berkhamsted it highlights The Graham Greene Festival, Ashridge Estate and the castle among other attractions.

The Chilterns Tourism Network, which is made up of more than 100 businesses in the region, is hoping that the increased profile of the UK achieved by the Olympic and Paralympic games will boost tourism to the area.

The website – www.visitchilterns.co.uk – is the first of its kind for the Chilterns and it also has a section called Sense Of Place to help businesses market themselves.

A youth worker who couldn’t get funding to set up a youth club has taken matters into his own hands and launched a charity shop to bring in the cash he needs.

George Kufa opened the doors of the Kingdom Power Charity Shop in Hemel Hempstead’s High Street yesterday to start his campaign to inspire and encourage young people in the town.

Mr Kufa – a pastor of the Kingdom Power Church – has already set up The Winners Youth Club in Bletchley and wants to reach out to more youngsters.

He said: “I approached Dacorum Borough Council but have found that funding for church charities is quite restricted but I love what I do and decided to find another way of raising the money.

“I have a big passion for empowering and inspiring young people.

“Through my work I know that they need people to speak to and share their views. It’s important to understand them and create a platform for them.

“The youth club will be more than a venue with games.

“What we are trying to do is mentor and inspire them.

“We’ll bring in successful people to talk to them and also coaches to teach dance, music and other activities they may want to learn.”

Mr Kufa needs enough money to hire a venue, buy equipment and pay a youth worker but he hopes to be up and running early next year.

In the meantime he will find out what the area’s youth want.

He would also like to organise trips abroad for them so they can see a bit of the world.

He said: “I have already had some people asking about the club and so far five kids have listed their interest so we are doing our best for them.”

In the meantime he is appealing for volunteers to help out. Contact him on 01442 450465 and visit www.winners.weebly.com.

Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted

The king is on the loose again in the delightful and funny third film from the Madagascar set, writes guest reviewer Alison Devlin.

Brought to you by DreamWorks, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted is set to be a real crowd pleaser.

With its new characters and exciting adventures, the gang of escapee animals begins their adventure running riot on the streets of Monte Carlo attracting unwanted attention from a super cop, Captain Chantel DuBois (voiced by Frances McDormand), in their attempt to get back to The Big Apple.

Loosely following on from the events of the second film, Alex the Lion (Ben Stiller) and his friends are still stranded in Africa waiting for their ride back to New York. After having a bad dream about growing old and still waiting, Alex takes it into his own paws and the group set off around Europe, bringing with them disruption, laughter and a whole lot of animal antics.

If not taken too seriously, this can be an enjoyable and humorous film for family of all ages.

With comedy talent such as Stiller, Chris Rock (Marty the Zebra), David Schwimmer (Melman the Giraffe) and Jada Pickett-Smith (Gloria the Hippo) you’re guaranteed ninety-three minutes of entertainment.

As usual, the returning cast is top notch, though scenes with our favourite Lemur-king and his sidekick Maurice are rare. That doesn’t stop them having their own storyline in which our crazy dancing monarch falls in love with someone who you wouldn’t imagine to be his type…

Fun loving, family-friendly and children pleasing, Madagascar 3 will be the talk of the playground in the next coming month.

Frankenweenie

It seems that by returning to his roots, Tim Burton has found his mojo again.

This stop-motion fable is a feature-length adaptation of Burton’s own short film, one of the shorts that brought him to attention and prominence at the start of his career. It’s good to see him tackling his own stories again, and going hands on, tactile, rather than adapting and using CGI lazily.

Scepticism is cast aside by a passionate and light touch, and beautifully crafted animation. It lacks the depth of his best work but it is a return to form.

The story revolves around a young boy, Victor, heartbroken over the death of his beloved dog. He finds a way to bring the pooch back to life and at the start it’s fine, his companion is back, but it’s what he has brought back with him, and what has been unleashed that starts to cause mayhem. A strong voice cast, filled with actors rather than stars, adds some weight, and it just feels, well, Burton-esque. Good to have him back, let’s hope he is here to stay

Paranormal Activity 4

Really? It’s still going on? People still want it? But it’s no good. The first one wasn’t even that good. So why? Oh money. Ok. The fourth instalment is no improvement on the previous three.

SATURDAY

The Jonathan Ross Show 
(ITV1, 10.20pm)

This week, as king of chat Wossy wraps up another hugely successful series, we can expect good humour from comedian and actor David Mitchell, who’ll be plugging his new memoir Back Story.

Bradley Cooper, star of The Hangover movies, will be promoting his new film, Silver Linings, and no doubt be discussing what it means to be one of the sexiest men on Earth, while Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry promote new album Music from Another Dimension! which is released next month. Singer-songwriter Emeli Sandé provides the music for the evening after a fabulous year of appearances at the Olympics and becoming one of Scotland’s most recognisable stars.

SUNDAY

Surprise, Surprise (ITV1, 7pm)

Holly Willoughby will be giving well-deserving members of the public the biggest surprise of their lives as Cilla Black’s classic show returns, minus the flame-haired diva herself.

We have been promised a number of tear-jerking surprises and dramatic family reunions as Holly and guests help make some dreams of a lifetime come true.

In the opener, a soldier faces his biggest fear, and a friend gives his best mate the gift of life.

The Saturdays surprise a devoted fan and a couple are reunited with something very special after more than four decades, plus guest appearances by Gareth Malone’s acclaimed vocalists the Military Wives, and British racing champion Jenson Button.

MONDAY

Jamie’s 15 Minute Meals (Channel 4, 5pm)

If you caught Jamie Oliver’s 30 Minute Meals, you’ll have a good idea of what it’s about as the frantic foodie shows how, in the time it takes to heat up a ready-meal, a delicious feast can be cooked from scratch. He’s cooking the meals in real time and has been careful to reduce calorie content as much as possible.

He says: “We all want food that’s healthy, gorgeous and super quick, so I’m going to show you a whole new way to cook – amazing meals that you can do in just fifteen minutes, time-saving tricks and multi-tasking to the max

TUESDAY

Rolf’s Animal Clinic (Five, 8pm)

Rolf Harris is back with a six-part series that sees him come face-to-face with more furry friends at the University of Liverpool’s Leahurst campus, home to one of the UK’s top veterinary colleges.

The first patient is Millie, a family’s pet horse, who is brought in with a life-threatening case of colic and needs emergency surgery.

WEDNESDAY

Brazil With Michael Palin 
(BBC One, 9pm) ****

The comedian-turned-actor-turned-globetrotter may has more stamps in his passport than most people, but there’s one place he’s never been to, and it happens be the fifth-biggest country on the planet – Brazil.

Now he’s about to put that right by journeying there for a new, four-part series.

THURSDAY

Hatfields & McCoys (Five, 9pm)

Epic fact-based Western with Kevin Costner as the intriguingly named Devil Anse Hatfield looks well worth investigating. Also involved is director Kevin Reynolds, who called the shots on Costner’s biggest cinema hits.

FRIDAY

Piers Morgan’s Life Stories: Burt Reynolds (ITV1, 9pm)

The former tabloid editor tries to shed some light on the hirsute hunk whose million-dollar grin and trademark ‘tache once left women the world over weak at the knees.

Burt bounced to fame in the 1970s, and his role in disturbing thriller Deliverance is still a standout success – but more often he’s been played the comedy card, and is as well-known for his love life as his acting career.

Will Piers be able to probe beneath his affable exterior and tease out something new?

A date has been set for the community to officially say well done to its Paralympic star.

Tring Town Council has organised a reception for sitting volleyball player Martine Wright to take place in Church Square on Saturday, October 27 at 11am.

The mayor councillor Nick Hollinghurst will do a speech, which will be followed by some words from the athlete.

Martine, who lives in Beaconsfield Road, lost both her legs on July 7, 2005, when suicide bomber Shehzad Tanweer blew himself up at Aldgate underground station.

She took up sport as part of her recuperation and competed with the GB squad this year.

Her journey has been used as an inspirational story of courage and determination leading up to the Games, and her resilience defined just what the Paralympics is all about.

Deputy mayor councillor Roxanne Ransley said: “It’s the perfect opportunity for people to meet and congratulate our local star. So bring your flags.”

A Frithsden pub has been named Hertfordshire Dining Pub of the Year in the Good Pub Guide 2013.

The Campaign for Real Ale gave the accolade to The Alford Arms in its new guide.

The guide says: “This pretty Victorian pub has a chic interior, good food from an imaginative menu, and a thoughtful wine list.

“Standing by a village green and surrounded by lovely National Trust woodland it’s usually full to the brim with cheerful diners.”

The guide came out last month.