Tourism

1st August sees the formal launch of an exciting new website celebrating the ‘living history’ of the Sopwell area of St Albans. Funded by the National Lottery the website, www.sopwellmemories.org.uk, contains stories and photographs contributed by local people, as well as an extensive and increasing archive of oral history interviews with both recent and long-standing residents. It aims to capture memories of living in Sopwell as it changed from a rural farming community to a culturally diverse suburb of St Albans.

A few years ago, I asked Imogen de la Bere what she would consider to be the essence of life. 'Truth' was her answer. Interestingly, the OVO philosophy of theatre is that the 'emotional truthfulness of the acting should supply everything.'

St Albans city has had its share of ghosts and spooky tales of bygone days. This year, the St Albans Tour Guides have lined up an exciting week of Ghost Walks suited to all ages.

There is a special gold trophy which weighs 4 pounds, stands 17 inches tall and known to the whole world as The Ryder Cup. Many locals are unaware that its founder Samuel Ryder was one of the greatest citizens that St Albans has ever had; as a business man, politician and churchman.

More on events to be enjoyed in St Albans (May 2011)

Last year, an ambitious new opera came to St Albans, premiering in the Abbey, the opera told the little known story of Alban himself, the first English martyr. After a sell out run, Alban the Opera is travelling to London for four nights only in October this year before heading to the US in 2011.

This week is special for St Albans Abbey and Cathedral as an incredible 2,400 graduates from the University of Hertfordshire will be celebrating their acedemic success there.

Hertfordshire has played its part in papal affairs. In the 12th century, a young boy from Abbots Langley near St Albans, called Nicholas, lived on a farm like many of his peers. Little did he know that as a result of unforeseen disappointments and his own strength of character, he would be the only Englishman to become a pope. This September marks the 850th anniversary of Nicholas Breakspear’s death.

If you were at the St Albans' Market last saturday, you may have found yourself seduced by the tunes of one of the top musicians of the West End.

Today Pope Benedict XVI has landed in Scotland for the first of a four day state visit to the UK. Although St Albans won't be graced by his presence, many local catholics are set to see him in London.