Wheathampstead Businesses

11/02/2026

🌟 Welcome Wednesday 🌟

We’re delighted to welcome St Albans High School for Girls – Prep to the Wheathampstead Businesses network! 🎓✨

Located in the heart of Wheathampstead on 18 acres of beautiful fields and woodland, STAHS Prep is a selective independent girls’ school for ages 4–11, combining academic excellence with exceptional pastoral care in a warm and supportive community.

At STAHS Prep, girls are encouraged to discover a love of learning through an inspiring curriculum, vibrant co-curricular opportunities and expert teaching — without the pressure of 11+ exams, enabling them to thrive both academically and personally.

With a broad range of clubs, wrap-around care options and a focus on confidence, resilience and curiosity, STAHS Prep offers a wonderful start to every pupil’s educational journey.

We’re proud to have such a forward-thinking and community-minded school as part of our local network!

10/02/2026

🌟 Member Mention Spotlight 🌟

This week, we’re featuring Ellie McCarthy Sports Therapy — your local expert in personalised treatment and hands-on care here in Wheathampstead! 💪✨

Whether you’re managing a sports injury, tackling niggles from everyday life, or simply looking to improve your movement and performance, Ellie offers professional, tailored therapy designed to help you feel and move better. With a friendly, supportive approach, she takes the time to listen, assess and treat in a way that suits you.

From muscle tension and joint pain to mobility challenges and recovery – Ellie’s focus is on helping you feel stronger, more comfortable and more confident in your body.

Supporting local well-being services like this makes our community healthier and happier. 🙌

09/02/2026

It's always good to hear from a member how their Premium membership has benefitted their business. Alex Thomas Independent Financial Planner told last week's breakfast meeting that he was really pleased with the engagement he'd received from our social media posts about him, particularly on LinkedIn.

Read the full story:

Alex Thomas's Premium member social media posts produced lots of engagement

08/02/2026

✨ Shop Local Spotlight – The Barbers Yard ✨

It’s time to treat yourself to a fresh cut and sharp style right here in the village! 💈✂️

The Barber's Yard is your local destination for classic and contemporary men’s barbering — from precision haircuts and beard trims to stylish grooming that leaves you looking and feeling your best.

With friendly service and a welcoming chair in the heart of Wheathampstead, this independent barber shop is the place to support local craftsmanship while keeping your look on point. Whether it’s a trim before the weekend, a tidy beard, or just some well-deserved self-care, they’ve got you covered.

Keep it local — and walk out with a fresh finish!

03/02/2026

Great advice here from Alex Thomas Independent Financial Planner about ensuring you use all your tax allowances

In recent weeks I have had a few questions relating to investing for children. With this in mind and tax year end around the corner on April 5th, below are some options available.

JUNIOR ISAs

Any child under the age of 18, and who lives in the UK, can have a Junior Individual Savings Account (JISA). Like adult ISAs, there are two types of JISA: cash JISAs and stocks and shares JISAs. The maximum you can pay into either type tax-free is £9,000 for the 2025-26 tax year. Income and gains from a JISA are free of UK tax and not subject to parental tax rules. Note that children can gain control of a JISA at 16 but usually can’t withdraw anything until they’re 18.

PERSONAL PENSIONS

You may think your own pension is a world away, let alone your child’s. However, if you’re looking to secure your child’s financial future in the long term, you may wish to consider opening a Junior Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP). Junior SIPPs/Pensions are eligible for 20% tax relief; the maximum you can pay in per year is £3,600 (i.e. £2,880 with 20% tax relief).

TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF TAX-FREE ALLOWANCES

As we have seen, JISAs and Junior SIPPs will enable you to invest a set amount each tax year, without either a) incurring tax on interest or gains or b) losing valuable tax reliefs. It is therefore advisable to take maximum advantage of these allowances before moving onto other types of investments that may incur tax.

Gifts of money do not incur IHT if the donor lives for seven years after gifting. Lifetime gifting is a good option for grandparents, for example, who wish to contribute financially to their grandchildren’s future while reducing the value of their own estate for IHT purposes. There are also additional allowances, available which can reduce the Inheritance tax burden.

Feel free to reach out if you are looking for some independent financial advice, prior to the end of the tax year. You can reach me on 07584034634 or email me on [email protected]

02/02/2026

✨ Member Mention ✨

We’re proud to spotlight the Wheathampstead and District Preservation Society, a group dedicated to protecting and enhancing the heritage and character of our village. 🏡🌳

Recently, WDPS celebrated a special milestone — its 30th anniversary. To mark the occasion, a time capsule was buried at Crinkle Crankle Corner, filled with mementoes capturing life in Wheathampstead today, along with letters from local primary schools written for children of the future. The aim is for the capsule to remain buried for the next 30 years, creating a meaningful link between past, present and future generations.

WDPS have also created a video on YouTube showcasing their work and achievements over the last three decades — a wonderful reminder of the vital role they play in our community.

Organisations like WDPS help ensure the character and history of Wheathampstead continue to be valued and protected for years to come.

31/01/2026

🌟 Shop Local Saturday 🌟

This week we’re shining a light on Harpenden Wills Ltd, specialists in wills, probate and estate planning, offering clear, compassionate guidance when it matters most. 📜✨

With a friendly and professional approach, Harpenden Wills help individuals and families put plans in place that protect loved ones and provide real peace of mind. Whether you’re making a will for the first time or reviewing existing arrangements, their experienced team are on hand to offer straightforward advice tailored to your circumstances.

A great example of trusted local expertise supporting our community

26/01/2026

🌟 Member Mention🌟

This week we’re shining a light on Alex Thomas Independent Financial Planner from DGS, a Chartered Independent Financial Planner who works closely with new and existing clients to help turn their financial goals into reality. 💼✨

By taking the time to really understand each client’s objectives and future plans, Alex develops clear, tailored financial strategies. These may include retirement planning, investment opportunities, inheritance tax planning, care fees planning, and ensuring the protection of a client’s legacy — all delivered with a personal and considered approach.

A long-time Wheathampstead, Alex is actively involved in the local community. Alongside being a member of the local business network, he’s also lead coach for his son’s football team and helps with cricket coaching too — when he’s not spending time with his wife Hayley, their three children, and Luna the cockapoo! 🐾⚽🏏

A great example of professional expertise combined with strong community roots.

24/01/2026

✨ Shop Local Saturday✨

Thinking about transforming your home? Ross Lee Architecture specialises in creating spaces that are both beautiful and practical, designed to work seamlessly for the way you live. 🏡✨

Whether you’re considering an extension, refurbishment, loft conversion or a new build, Ross Lee Architecture guide you through every stage of the project — from initial concept through to completion. Their collaborative approach ensures your ideas, needs and lifestyle remain at the heart of the design process.

If you’re planning your next home project and want expert local guidance, why not book a free consultation to explore the possibilities and bring your vision to life?

📞 01582 620698
📧 [email protected]

19/01/2026

🌟 Member Mention🌟

This week, we’re featuring Wheathampstead Dental Surgery, a trusted local practice offering professional, friendly dental care for patients of all ages. 🦷✨

From routine check-ups and hygiene appointments to more advanced treatments, their experienced team is dedicated to helping patients feel comfortable and confident while maintaining excellent oral health. Quality care close to home makes all the difference.

14/01/2026

🌟 Member Mention🌟

Monet Gardening specialise in lawn care, hedge trimming and ongoing maintenance, helping clients transform and care for their outdoor spaces. 🌿🌸

From complete garden makeovers to regular upkeep, their experienced team work closely with clients to create gardens that are both beautiful and practical throughout the year. Local expertise and attention to detail ensure outstanding results every time.

12/01/2026

🌟 Member Mention 🌟

A long-established, family-run business, J.J.Burgess & Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors are known for providing professional, caring funeral service 24 hours a day, 365 days per year to the people of Hertfordshire since 1839.

They offer a 24-hour telephone service, so please contact us immediately a death has occurred. We will offer you comfort, support and clear advice at any time and we will advise you on what you should to do next.

The Burgess family have been part of the Hatfield community for almost 200 years. From clock makers to publicans, have a look at the fascinating family and business history.