After standing empty for almost three years, one of High Barnet's historic High Street buildings has been re-opened as the flagship cafe in a local chain of Costa Coffee houses.

High Barnet's great tradition of Christmas carol concerts and services was given a boost with what was described as a marvellous musical performance by the choir and orchestra of Queen Elizabeth's Girls' School.

Two years in the making but all the better for that is a detailed plan to repair and refurbish the abandoned pavilion in Tudor Park, in Tudor Road, New Barnet, so that it can be reopened for public use.

Two regulars at the Ye Olde Monken Holt in Barnet High Street have transformed one wall of the pub into an illuminated display in readiness for a series of Christmas and New Year fund raising events.

High Barnet's celebrated road sweeper Dougie Shrubb, who carried on working long after retiring age, has finally called it a day at the age of 71.

A residents' campaign to "Save The Spires" is urging Barnet Council to intervene to provide safeguards about the long-term future of High Barnet's shopping centre amid continuing uncertainty about the financial status of its owners.