17 Jun 2026
We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Helen Whittington, co-owner of DJ’s Play and Play Putt, member of the Association of Indoor Play, and event coordinator for St Albans Community Pantry.
Where do you walk when you want to think?
Clarence Park is my walk of choice, but I rarely walk my dog alone and love to catch up with friends or business people in a Netwalk (See https://thecuriousmentor.com). Childwickbury for a quieter hour of contemplation.
Where do you go to listen to music?
I got to Zumba with Crishi or Tony Zumba, to exercise dance music! Or if I fancy a sing-a-long, there’s a Karaoke VIP Lounge and Bar at Play Putt, choose my own Play List!
How often do you check your phone?
Every hour of the day – unfortunately, although it keeps me connected through socials and allows me to run my business or network, from home or when out, giving ultimate flexibility. I am always available to my colleagues, customers and family – communication and location is key.
What is your favourite single item of clothing?
Depends on the weather, but currently anything bright pink, as it fits with my brand.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in the district?
Herts Sports Village, my beloved gym. Or DJ’s Play Jungle as my place of work – although I’d rather be enjoying a lunch at the Potting Shed or a drink at Villa2 Lounge Bar. I support local through @FirstThurs business networking group – next on is Thursday July 2 at Lussmanns!
What’s your favourite St Albans car park?
It’s got to be free parking, wherever I can find it – mostly at The Quadrant in Marshalswick.
Where would be your preferred place locally to get married?
St Michael’s Manor is where we got married and I still find it the most authentic hotel and garden in St Albans – hope to return for an afternoon tea there soon.
Odyssey or Netflix?
Odyssey – they rightly won the Entertainment and Lifestyle category of the recent St Albans Retailer of the Year Awards, which we were nominated finalists for. Plus they do dementia screenings.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an ice cream man – since I played the Lemonade Stand Tycoon game. I suppose that’s where my entrepreneurship started. I tried a Mr Whippy machine – too hard to clean! Now I have slushy machines, many flavours of ice cream and a full licensed bar at Play Putt.
Most inspirational St Albans person – living or dead?
It has to be Sharron Linney – SHE DOES MORE THAN EVERYONE. She’s known for sharing on the socials, but currently she’s fronting and championing many charities, including St Albans Action for Homeless, St Albans Community Pantry, Cottonmill After School Play Café, The Pioneer Club, Round Table Santa’s Float and Hope House. Ethos is family, strong community partnerships and BE KIND!
