Celebrate:MK June 2018

Page 1

June 2018. Issue 19

MK

Because Milton Keynes is worth celebrating

CELEBRATE: lifestyle magazine

new cancer centre

INSIDE! Summer photography tips, Robbo on the World Cup, food, theatre, fashion, music, business, new MK Herald page and more!

FR EE !

MK Hospital Charity launches appeal for final ÂŁ2.5m needed


2

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

5 NEW CANCER CENTRE MK Hospital Charity launches appeal to raise £2.5million

Contents

42

12 SUMMER PHOTO TIPS Top local photographer Catherine O’Donnell shares her expertise

16 SPENCER IS INSPIRED MK chef Spencer Ollington reviews a Riverford ‘Master Veg’ class

19 ROBBO ON ENGLAND Karl Robinson wants Spurs’ England players to start in the World Cup

12

29 AMP ROCKS PREVIEW Vicki McCarthy on the Ampthill Festival, featuring Bananarama

19

42 NEW! SPOOF NEWS PAGE Satirical news from The MK Herald

Best Foot Forward Information Event 21st June 2018, 6.30pm - 7.30pm Join us for an information evening with Mr Michael Wardlaw, Consultant Podiatric Surgeon, who specialises in Foot and Ankle surgery. • Benefit from advice from a specialist consultant • Learn about the full range of surgeries available • Have a tour of the facilities The evening includes a presentation, Q&A with Mr Wardlaw and refreshments. To book your place call 0808 278 9725

@BlakelandsHosp

/Blakelands Hospital

blakelandshospital.co.uk

Blakelands Hospital


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

3

June 2018

Welcome from the Editor

20,000 MAGAZINES GO OUT TO MK HOMES, BUSINESSES AND PICK-UP POINTS EACH MONTH

Where to Get a Copy

How to Subscribe We have more than 2,000 subscribers to the free digital edition of Celebrate:MK. To join the subscription list, email the word ‘Subscribe’ to jon@celebratemk.co.uk

How to Advertise To advertise in Celebrate:MK, email jon@celebratemk.co.uk or call 07928 027444. We offer adverts from as little as £50 a month for a classified advert, up to a double page spread for £550.

How to Contact Us Telephone: 07928 027444 Email: jon@celebratemk.co.uk Website: www.celebratemk.co.uk Social media: @CelebrateMK

W

hat a time to be alive. And what a time to be living in Milton Keynes. Summer is here and our glorious city/ town (I don’t want any arguments) has pulled out all the stops to make sure its residents have a host of red-hot events to enjoy as the weather warms up. In June we have the new Soap Box Derby, the annual Dragon Boat Festival and DachshundTown – all of which you can read about in Sarah Bygrave’s Cool Events column (page 7). There are also loads of local food events to make your mouth water (page 6), amazing theatre shows (pages 25 & 27) and the brilliant Ampthill Festival just up the road (page 29) – with Bananarama, Example and Reef headlining! The World Cup kicks off this month too so we have Karl Robinson’s thoughts on who Gareth Southgate should pick in his England starting XI (page 19). Talking of football, I played in a charity match at Luton Town’s

What a time to be alive. And what a time to be living in MK Kenilworth Road stadium recently and was photographed in this rather unfortunate position (above). Comments have ranged from “I didn’t know you were trying for another baby,” to “you could have at least bought him a drink first.” Very funny. But even funnier is our new spoof news page from The MK Herald (page 42). I hope you have a fun-filled June.

Jon Boyle

Printed in Milton Keynes by Regal Litho Tel: 01908 270400 www.regallitho.co.uk Unit 3, Enigma Building, Bilton Road Denbigh East, Bletchley, MK1 1HW


web, app, print & brand design


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

5

June 2018

Hospital needs £2.5million from the community to fund new cancer centre

MK Hospital Charity launches new cancer centre appeal

M

ilton Keynes Hospital Charity has launched a fundraising appeal to bring in the final £2.5million needed for a new cancer centre. The charity is calling on the community of Milton Keynes to get involved and support the new appeal, which will help transform cancer care for patients, their families and the staff who treat them at Milton Keynes University Hospital.

The new centre will mean so much for so many people but we can’t do this alone. We need the people of Milton Keynes to get behind us and support the appeal

The new £15million cancer centre means the hospital can better support each and every cancer patient. It will be a dedicated space offering treatment and a wide range of information and support services to anyone affected by cancer, all within a more spacious, comfortable and welcoming environment. Importantly, the centre will bring together most treatments under one roof – where currently cancer care is provided in three different locations across the hospital. Last year in Milton Keynes more than 4,000 people were told the devastating news they had cancer. Head of Cancer Services at the hospital, Sally Burnie, said: “For the past five years or more our teams have been working tirelessly to improve the services available in the

existing facility. But with the growing population and higher incidence rates of cancer, the facilities we have currently will no longer be able to cope.” Leading on the appeal from the hospital is Head of Fundraising, Vanessa Holmes (pictured on the cover, centre). She said: “This is a once in a lifetime chance for us to make huge progress in the fight against cancer in our region. “The new centre will mean so much for so many people, but we can’t do this alone – we need the people of Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas to get behind us and support the appeal.” Money raised from the appeal will make sure the centre is the best of its kind, and worthy of the people of MK. The appeal will be officially launched on June 7 at intu shopping centre. To find out more, fundraise, donate or volunteer, visit www.mkhcharity.org.uk or call 01908 996220. Milton Keynes Hospital Charity is a registered charity number 1048297.


6

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

Enjoy a wood-fired pizza evening and much more locally in June

Have a pizza these food events

J

une is a great month for local food events, kicking off with the Eat Street MK streetfood event at York House in Stony Stratford on 1st June, writes Hazel Roberts. There will also be plenty of hot food on sale at the Big Lunch event in Stony Stratford on 3rd June at Wolverton Road Recreation Ground. On 10th June the Sunday Streetfood Session will be in the MK Pavilion Middleton from 12-4pm and, on 15th June, Newport Pagnell Streetfood Friday returns to Market Hill from 5pm. Also on 15th June you can relax with a wood-fired pizza

and a glass of something at Wharf Distillery for their Pizza Evening from 5-8.30pm, courtesy of Stu’s Oven. There are a host of big foodie events just outside of MK too in June. 3rd June is Leighton Buzzard’s Food Festival,

9-10th June is Towcester Food Festival, 16th June is Taste Bedford, and 16-17th June is Feast at Waddesdon Manor. If you are looking for food courses this month then check out the Claire Clark Academy in Bletchley for a variety of one day and evening classes on things such as afternoon tea, chocolate truffles, French patisseries and ice-cream. Coldsmoking Cookery School has courses on meat curing, sausage making and food fermentation, while Sugarstarz will be holding cupcake decorating courses at The Old Bathhouse in Wolverton.

Your friendly dance shop in Stony Stratford stocking top of the range

professional quality products for all your dancing needs. Dance leotards from all the well known brands plus Ballet, Pointe and Tap shoes all professionally fitted, jazz shoes, ballroom, practice shoes, turners, dance trainers all in stock plus dance tights, hot pants, ballet skirts, dance bags, accessories & much much more.

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday 11.30am - 6pm Saturdays 9.30am - 5pm

Address : 1 Swinfens Yard, High St, Stony Stratford MK11 1SY Call : 01908 260909 Email: dance@soul2soledancewear.co.uk Facebook:www.facebook.com/soul2soledancewear


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

7

June 2018

Enjoy a Killah summer Cool

events

This month

A

s we welcome the summer months to MK the events calendar is filling up fast! Forget your bog standard beer garden, it’s time to get out and try something new this summer! Here are my picks for June... Saturday the 9th will see MK11 host an intimate performance from rap royalty, Ghostface Killah. A member of the legendary Wu Tang Clan, his live performances are renowned for being extremely powerful. Described as ‘sharp unpredictable symbolism’, this show is not to be missed. Tickets are available from seetickets.com, over 18s only. Ever watched the Red Bull Soap Box race on TV? Well, get ready to witness some extremely creative

Ex BBC entertainment writer Sarah Bygrave wants you to try something new this summer by watching rap royalty, attending the Soap Box Derby, a sausage dog day and more... engineering as MK hosts its very own Soap Box Derby on the 16th June. The three races, open to juniors and adults, will be held on Midsummer Boulevard and are in aid of Willen Hospice. Search for the event on Facebook for information about entering, volunteering or attending the race. If you, like me, are a dog lover, then Kents Hill Pavilion has just the thing for you. DachshundTown is the event celebrating all things sausage dog! During the jam-packed day there is loads on offer including show classes, activities, trick performances, splash pools and even a Dachshund beauty pageant. Tickets for the event on Saturday the 9th are available from chihuahuatownevents.

co.uk, where there is also information on other events coming up. Finally, Willen Lake hosts the 17th Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival on the 23rd of June from 10am. The festival is open to anyone as no experience is required. All you need is a group of friends and buckets of enthusiasm! It’s a great day out for participants but also for spectators as there is food and musical entertainment along the banks for everyone to enjoy. Visit dragonboatfestivals. co.uk for more information and I'll see you there! If you are running or hosting an event and want to get in touch with Sarah, you can tweet her @sarah_celebrate


Father’s Day Treat Sunday 17 June • 12.00-9.00pm

Treat your father to a bottomless Indian buffet this Father’s Day at Maaya. Free* dRinK FoR dad !

13.95

Per Person

6.95

unDer 10’s

FREE unDer 5’s

*T&Cs APPly

Please book to avoid disappointment by calling 01908 242665

01908 242665 maayamiltonkeynes.com

f

The Hub, 2 Rillaton Walk MK9 2FZ


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

9

June 2018

Double award joy for Bell & Bear

T

he Bell and Bear was the big winner at the Milton Keynes Food and Leisure Awards 2018, scooping both the Pub of The Year and Best Use of Local Produce prizes. Jon and Sophie (pictured), owners of the Embertonbased pub, were overjoyed at their double triumph at the prestigious ceremony at The Holiday Inn, CMK. Here’s a list of all the winners on the night... 2018 WINNERS – LEISURE Best small hotel: M Gallery by Sofitel, Woughton House. Best large hotel: Doubletree by Hilton. Best attraction: MK Theatre. Best cafe: Nonna’s.

Best pub: The Bell and Bear (Emberton). Best bar: The Craufurd Arms. FOOD Best local food product: Atelier The Brigadeiro – Chocolate Brigadeiros. Best local drink product: The Fruity Farmer – Seville Orange Gin.

Best use of local produce: The Bell and Bear (Emberton). Best family restaurant: MK Buffet Village. Best Asian restaurant: Calcutta Brasserie. Best branded restaurant: Turtle Bay. Best newcomer: Fratelli’s (Woburn). Best restaurant: The Brasserie (MK College). PEOPLE Best waiter: Aaron Gates – The Cross Keys (Woolstone). Best waitress: Amanda Hennelly – Loch Fyne (The Hub). Best street food: Bandit. Best chef: Shane Clarke – The Swan, MK Village.

MK to host its first Bonsai tree show

The Parks Trust and Quantum Theatre Present

The Reluctant Dragon

By Kenneth Grahame Adapted and Directed by Michael Whitmore

Sun 1 July 2018 Campbell Park Canalside Gates open: 3pm Performance starts: 4pm £13 adult I £8 child I £34 family For further information and to book tickets: 01908 255379 events@theparkstrust.com www.theparkstrust.com

M

ilton Keynes will host its first ever Bonsai show on June 30 at the Central Library from 10am-3pm The Bonsai and Ikebana show has been organised by the MK Bonsai Society and is a chance to gain an insight into this

fascinating art. The word ‘Bonsai’ literally means ‘tree in a pot’ as growers try to emulate wild, rugged and ancient trees in miniature form. Entry is free. Read the full article online at celebratemk.co.uk


We are Shapers, Makers and Life’s Painters We are Movers, Initiators and Life’s Game Changers We are Webber; Educators, Motivators and Future Creators Pre-Prep & Prep Open Day Tuesday 19th June - 9:30am to 11:30am

Senior & Sixth Form Open Day Wednesday 20th June - 9:30am to 12:00pm Scholarships Available*

RATED

* Subject to qualifying criteria.

FIND YOUR FUTURE

AT WEBBER INDEPENDENT

PLEASE CALL US ON

01908 57 47 40

www.webberindependentschool.com

GCSEs: 92% A* - C in 2017

Soskin Drive Milton Keynes MK14 6DP

A Levels: 100% secured their first choice university

Private day school for girls and boys aged 4 to 18.


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

11

June 2018

Leading MK home improvement company appoints new Operations Director

Talented Adam is the perfect fit to energise The Door Studio

L

eading local home improvement company The Door Studio has appointed a talented new Operations Director to take the business to the next level. Adam Beechey has been tasked with energising the Fenny Stratford-based company in its next chapter of growth and success from its Wharfside HQ and showroom. Adam brings with him a wealth of experience in both the home improvement and commercial construction sectors after graduating from Aberystwyth University nine years ago with a degree in business management. He told Celebrate:MK: “I am excited to join the team at The Door Studio and am looking forward to building on the progress already achieved, with the aim of

I’ll develop new relationships with suppliers to ensure our prices continue to be the most competitive in the region

delivering superb products and service to all of our clients, at the best price. “As part of my commitment to offering the best, I will use my skills and industry knowledge to broaden our portfolio of home improvement products. “This includes a new range of modern and traditional over-door canopies and complementary windows in a spectrum of artisan colours – from the contemporary and popular anthracite grey through to the traditional chartwell green. “I also intend to work with existing suppliers and develop new relationships with suppliers to ensure our prices continue to be the most competitive in the region.” Adam will engage with existing and prospective clients to understand their requirements in terms of a product and service offering.

He is also tasked with rebranding The Door Studio to a fresh, contemporary new look, which will be rolled out across stationery, websites, workwear and vehicles over the coming weeks. “Our ethos at The Door Studio is to transform our customers’ homes through our sensational range of quality products, fitted by our time-served and dedicated installers,” said Adam. “It is our mission to ensure that we offer the best product, at the best price, with the best service. “Contact us today to see how we can help transform your home.” Call Adam at The Door Studio on 01908 645566, email adam@doorstudio.org or visit www.doorstudio.org Alternatively, drop in to see him at the showroom at 27-30 Wharfside, Fenny Stratford, MK2 2AZ .


12

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

These are the days of our lives Award-winning local photographer Catherine O’Donnell offers advice on how to capture the magic of childhood this summer...

B

ritish summers are made for children and children are made for summer. Come rain or shine the summer holidays mean freedom for our children – finally they are free to run, skip, splash, climb, dance, build sand castles and secret dens, play, explore, devour ice creams and just be the gorgeous sticky little souls that they are. And that’s why more than anything I love photographing children this time of year and capturing that beautiful sense of joy and wonder. If you want to make your children’s memories last this summer make sure you grab your camera, they will thank you for it in years to come. And when you capture that special photograph that fills your heart with joy; print it, frame it, enjoy it. In fact, print off a whole set, make an album or a scrapbook, your children are going to love looking back on this time with joy in their hearts as they relive special family memories. Try and capture your little ones simply having fun and being themselves, be discreet, and remember children don’t need to be smiling to create a beautiful photograph, though if you do want to capture a little smile (without a forced grin), engage with them, ask them to tell you a joke (my trick is often to tell children

not to smile, this often causes a sudden outburst of laughter). And try different angles too, get down low, take pictures from above, enjoy the process. Go for a walk with your children on a warm summer’s evening, head to the park, or if you’re on holiday take a sandy walk along the beach, and when the sun begins to sink in the sky and the light turns all golden and gorgeous, this is your chance to capture your

family in the most beautiful light, not only making for magical memories but beautiful photographs too. Catherine O’Donnell won Best Photographer ‘Gold’ at the Smallish Design Awards 2017 and has been published by Vogue Italia. She specialises in creating beautiful bespoke lifestyle portraiture and also teaches photography tutorials. For further information visit www.catherineodonnell.co.uk


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

13

June 2018

Win a family photo shoot with Catherine worth £300! Competition

C

elebrate:MK has teamed up with Catherine O’Donnell Photography to give away an exclusive lifestyle photo shoot experience for your children or the whole family (up to 6 people). For your chance to win this amazing prize with award-winning photographer Catherine, plus the chance to create beautiful artwork to last a lifetime, simply email jon@celebratemk.co.uk with

the words ‘Enter Catherine O’Donnell Competition’ in the subject box. Or you can enter by liking and sharing/retweeting the

competition post on our social media channels @CelebrateMK. Terms and conditions apply, which you can find on our website. Good luck!

headonist MK’s first 5* Good Salon Guide salon

01908 609898

www.headonisthair.com 313 Avebury Boulevard Milton Keynes MK9 2GA


Get a taste of Summer at

TheOFF Tanning 25% YOURShop FIRST 25% OFF TANNING LOTION your first tanning lotion

LIVELOVETAN The tan you want starts now!

70TODAY Stores REGISTER AT Nationwide THETANNINGSHOP.CO.UK Milton Keynes Online booking now available! Below Premier Inn, 801 Avebury Blvd, MK9 3JT 01908 234512 Register Today Kingston: 52 Wood Street KT1 1UW REGISTER TODAY AT THETANNINGSHOP.CO.UK

thetanningshop.co.uk Tel. 020 8546 4070

*Terms and Conditions: Subject to registration and consultation. Over-18’s only. Discounts can only be used on UV equipment & bottles of lotion. Discount cannot be used on Unlimited Memberships or in conjunction with any other offer. Discounts only valid for 7 days from registration. Free session length is determinded by skin type and tanning history. Offer excludes Lakeside and Enfield. Student discount valid on packages only. Not in conjunction with any other offer.

60+ stores nationwide


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

15

June 2018

Nothing Miserables in June Local lifestyle blogger Ginger Mum is decluttering her wardrobe for Fashion Re:Boot and has news of a huge theatre show coming to MK

J

une is one of my favourite months of the year and it’s here already! First things first, I’m having a mahoosive house clear out in time for summer and that has left me with bags of amazingly wearable-but-notquite-me-anymore togs. This coincides with a rather fabulous visit from the supercool Fashion Re:Boot pop up in association with Southwood Social Hub on Friday June 8th at 7pm. What the heck is Fashion Re:Boot? Well, in a nutshell it’s bloggers, stylists and boutique owners amongst others, all selling their high end pre-loved and brand new wardrobe gems at knock down prices! Entry is a mere fiver (includes free G&T for the first

100 guests) and you could walk out with a celebrity worthy wardrobe! Some of the loveliest women will be there and, if you want a fab feel-good night out and some spanking new togs, get yourself over to the @fash_reboot Instagram or contact me for more details! Sun’s out buns out but if you want to keep it classy, this divine pink maxi dress (pictured) from Marks & Spencer at centre:mk is my pick of the month! At £69 it’s a great price and a piece which will last the test of time. I reckon stock won’t stick around long as it ticks all the trend boxes: floral, girlie and maxi, so don’t be slow – if you’re not fast you are last! We are lucky that we have a fantastic theatre in Milton Keynes and it has a really exciting run of shows coming up! I’m thrilled to let you know that none other than smashhit show Les Miserables will

be coming this time next year – and you know those tickets are going to get snapped up! Tickets are on general sale on 21st June so set those reminders and if you are lucky enough to be an ATG card holder you can snap them up from 12th June! Killian Donnelly, who plays the lead in the West End sell out show, will be heading up the cast at Milton Keynes – who says it all happens in London? MK is where it’s at! Don’t forget you can follow my daily musings on my Instagram stories over @gingermumstyle and I’ll see you back here in July!


16

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

Riverford masterclass inspires Spencer to live life on the veg Riverford’s local ‘Master Veg’ classes have been earning rave reviews so we sent along top MK chef Spencer Ollington, owner of Eat With Spencer, to review one for Celebrate:MK. He found it invigorating and veg-tastic...

D

o you want to bring your five a day alive and make it more interesting? Well get yourself booked on to a Riverford veg masterclass! I was asked to pop along to one of their Saturday classes to see what they were all about – and I found the morning refreshing, informative and fun. Myself and fellow foodies were greeted by the wonderful and ‘veg-tastic’ Vanessa Cook, MK’s Riverford franchisee, who shared her passion for vegetables and the magic they bring to the table. Riverford offers top quality produce from their farm to your fork with seasonal surprises, encouraging you to cook from scratch every week without the fuss. Vanessa got us all stuck in with peeling and chopping vegetables as she guided us through a few tasty dishes. Someone even had the pleasure of massaging some cabbage, although I’m not sure

who enjoyed that more. I was jealous! Our first delight was the forever versatile Romesco sauce with slow roasted leeks, which really packed a punch. The recipe was modified with chickpeas rather than breadcrumbs to meet the needs of our gluten free friends. I think this sauce is a perfect staple for your fridge and will keep well for a good few days. Things then hotted up in the kitchen as we learnt how to make a delicious roasted cauliflower curry. We enjoyed discussing the best ways to use vegetables, how to chop them and the endless variations of the ingredients we worked with. As a passionate foodie myself, I found this experience incredibly inspirational. I left invigorated and ready to use that energy in my own menus. Last up we explored the health benefits of eating raw

vegetables in their finest and most nutrient-dense form by making a raw pad Thai salad, using that wonderfully caressed cabbage. I’m fascinated in this arena as we all lead busy lifestyles and look for extra ways to regenerate our bodies. Our taste buds couldn’t handle waiting any longer. Vanessa had the table laid already as we all sat around and shared our delightful creations. If you are keen foodie and want to take your veg knowledge to the next level, book yourself on to one of these classes – I will definitely pop by again. In the meantime, check out their website at riverford.co.uk or try out one of their organic vegetable boxes – it’s like having an allotment without all the digging! For more on me, see spencerollington.co.uk

Call Vanessa on 01908 238100 to book a place on a forthcoming Riverford ‘Master Veg’ class


on displAy in our showroom

Anthracite Grey Composite door with two side panels • Made to measure • Anthracite Grey Frame • Anthracite Grey Door • Satin Glass • Two side panels • Brushed Stainless Steel Long Bar Handle

Only £1699 Fully installed including VAT within 21 days

www. doorstudio.org so much more than doors

SHOWROOM OPEN 7 DAYS The Door Studio, 27-30 Wharfside, Fenny Stratford, Milton Keynes MK2 2AZ 01908 645566


Specialising in commercial and industrial electrical installations ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AUDIO AND AV SYSTEMS EMERGENCY LIGHTING MAINTENANCE FIRE ALARMS DATA INSTALLATIONS TESTING MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS Telephone: 01908 569691, 07780 Website: www.virelectrical.co.uk 333261 or 07535 577020 Address: 12 Cochran Close, Email: info@virelectrical.co.uk Crownhill, Milton Keynes, MK8 0AJ


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

19

June 2018

Oxford manager Karl Robinson, who lives in MK, talks about the World Cup

‘England play better when the core of the team is from 1 club’

I

Robbo’s Column

’m looking forward to the World Cup but England will have to overcome lots of barriers if they are to do well in Russia. The players only needed to be at 70% to win most of their qualifying matches and I see England players in friendlies whose main aim is to avoid getting hurt, and I understand that. But then all of a sudden they go banging into a World Cup game and they are asked to play at their best and find their fluidity, which is impossible. I know Gareth Southgate quite well and I think he has done a good job as manager so far. But one hurdle he will have

I’m hoping that Gareth will build the team around the core of Tottenham’s England players

Dele Alli should play behind Harry Kane for England, says Robbo to overcome is ensuring he puts a unified, compatible team on the pitch in Russia. It was interesting to hear the comments from Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard about how they used to sit at different tables when they played for England because of their club rivalries. That’s hard for a coach to resolve. But when you look at England at the moment, their best performances have come when the team is densely populated with players from one club. Why? It’s about training the neurological, psychological and physiological parts of the human body. When you see a team do things without thinking, it’s a joy to watch. But the problem is that England’s players don’t train together day in, day out, so it’s extremely tough to find

fluidity in the international set-up. I’m hoping that Gareth will build the team around the core of Tottenham’s England players, because they are so used to playing well together. When you look at England’s most successful team in recent years it was when they had a core of Manchester United players, including David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand, and Liverpool’s Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard linking up well at the top end of the pitch. Applying that thinking to the current England team, I would put Dele Alli behind Harry Kane up front, Eric Dier at centre-back, with Danny Rose and Kyle Walker as fullbacks, then only one player needs to learn the back-four. It’s about connections all over the pitch and working out a compatible formula.

Karl Robinson writes exclusively for Celebrate:MK lifestyle magazine – MK’s quality monthly magazine


20

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

Signature silhouette on show MK fashionista SoCal Val wants you to showcase your natural hourglass shape and wear accessories that make you sparkle

SoCal fashion

T

he sun is out, fashionistas! I hope you’ve been enjoying the warm weather that arrived fashionably late this season. Though as I stressed in last month’s column, summer is no excuse to slouch when it comes to style. I believe in looking ladylike no matter the temperature! For this month’s look I’ve put together an elegant ensemble that’s perfect for a city break. My signature silhouette is on full display here and it’s my favourite for a reason! A soft, lightweight blouse is cinched in with a swingy skirt that contains my absolute favourite feature on any skirt in creation: an elasticated waistband! It is literally a built in cinch belt that enhances a woman’s

natural hourglass shape. Though it’s fun to play with trends in different eras I thank the good Lord I wasn’t around for the shapeless drop waists of the 1920s or the boxy cut dresses of the 1960s! I think we as females… make that femme fatales… should celebrate our curves and be proud of our bodies! Which doesn’t mean showing too much skin. It’s more about putting the spotlight on your body type in a classy way. A quick note about accessories before I let you get back to enjoying cocktails in the sun (which I hope you are!)… let’s talk about the amazing acrylic clutch I’m featuring here! Super on trend and a total conversation starter, this is the type of bag that will polish off any look this season. Add some mirrored sunnies and sparkly statement earrings from my designer girl crush of the moment Rosa Pietsch (www.rosapietsch. etsy.com) and you’re done! Et voila! Instant daytime glamour. Now, I usually focus on fashion in this column but I’ve got several beauty related questions on social media lately.

Top: Vintage Skirt: @sorryimdifferentofficial Bag: @duetluxury

Photography: @MrLeicaCom So I’ll leave you with one final tip for warmer temps: SPF should be your BFF this time of year. Because wrinkles are an outfit’s worst enemy… and they really don’t match with anything in your closet. Stylishly yours,

Follow SoCal Val’s blog at www.valeriewyndham.net or on social media at @SoCalValerie

Book advertising in Celebrate:MK for a minimum of three months for a 10% discount. Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

21

June 2018

A new home for The Dress Empire Ann Marie Davies is moving her shop to the lovely village of Woughton on the Green

P

rom season may be over for some of you but, for those whose big day is in July, there is still time to grab yourself a bargain! At The Dress Empire we have stock that is reduced to half price. The month of June is all about the rose and, did you know, a pink rose means happiness? I’m so happy this month because we have some amazing news... The Dress Empire will be moving to a beautiful new location at 2 Turpyn Court, Woughton on the Green, MK6 3BW.

of the month

We are collaborating with L’Beau Clinique so, ladies, you can book in for a beauty treatment and grab yourself a dress at the same time. Take the hassle out of shopping and get everything done in one place! Very soon we’ll be stocking a selection of dresses ideal for the weekend, starting from around £30. And do keep a look out for our new accessories and shoes! Check us out on socials @TheDressEmpire or call 07841 163238 for an appointment.

This sky blue Jora Collection dress is also available in black, ivory, pink and red from The Dress Empire

Telephone Marketing is still one of the most effective ways to secure new business! Xen Consultants specialise in the creation of bespoke marketing campaigns to create qualified new business opportunities with your ideal customers OUR SERVICES:

OUR CLIENTS TELL US:

• Appointment Setting

• “Our business wouldn’t be the same without your business” • “98% of the people Xen introduce to us go on to request a quote” • “One order secured was for the value of £8,000 with our ideal brand”

• LinkedIn Lead Generation • Data Cleansing for GDPR • Sales Training Courses • Market Research

Get in touch with us now on 01908 223330 or email info@xenconsultants.co.uk to receive your FREE marketing review


Electric Roller Garage doors Single Door

Single Door

£999

£999

up to 2.3m and 2.3m high

up to 2.3m and 2.3m high

Fully installed including Vat

Fully installed including Vat

Remote-controlled Roller Shutter Door. Fully guaranteed. 55mm double skinned aluminium foam insulated roller shutter. Aluminium side runner Internal manual overide.

Remote-controlled Roller Shutter Door. Fully guaranteed. 55mm double skinned aluminium foam insulated roller shutter. Aluminium side runner Internal manual overide.

TV

VIEW US ON

thedoorstudio.t

£1899

Two Single Garage Doors

£1699

Double Width Garage Door

Fully installed including Vat

v

£1899

Two Single Garage Doors

Fully installed including Vat

Wide choice of colours Anthracite Grey

Fir Green

Red

Blue

Black

Chartwell Green

Silver

White

Fully installed including Vat

doorstudio so much more than doors

Instant Online Quotes

www.doorstudio.org The Door Studio Showroom 27-30 Wharfside Fenny Stratford, Milton Keynes MK2 2AZ

What a massive change!!!

£999

Brown

TV

VIEW US ON

thedoorstudio.tv

BEFORE

up to 2.3m and 2.3m high

Fully installed including Vat An amazing transformation by our own skilled craftsmen, and installation completed with 28 days of order confirmation.

AFTER

Call our Brochure Line now on 01908 645566


Bi-folding & Sliding doors PremiLine £999

2 Section

PremiFold £750

per leaf section

up to 2.4m wide and 2.2m high

Fully installed including Vat

Fully installed including Vat

Revolutionary slide and swing door system.

Packed with technical features the Kommerling 70 is a fantastic door with an aluminium reinforced central section for increased security, durability and tightness.

PremiLine £1699

PAS 24 certified.

TV

VIEW US ON

4

Section

thedoorstudio.t

up to 3.6m wide and 2.2m high

v

Document Q compliant. Available in Kommerling 070 profile.

PremiDoor 88 £1250 per metre

Fully installed including Vat

Fully installed including Vat

Packed with technical features this 070 is a fantastic door with an aluminium reinforced central section for increased security, durability and tightness.

Capable of incredible opening sizes Up to 6.5m wide Two pane Up to 2.7m high. It offers outstanding thermal, acoustic and weather properties.

Bi-fold

Bi-fold

£2980

£2980

up to 2.7m and 2.2m high

Fully installed including Vat An amazing transformation by our own skilled craftsmen, available in a wide selection of RAL colours and installation completed with 28 days of survey.

up to 2.7m and 2.2m high

Fully installed including Vat BEFORE

AFTER

2, 3, 4 or 5 door variations available Maximum vision – minimal sight lines Single or dual colour to any colour Sash size of 1200mm

TV

VIEW US ON

thedoorstudio.tv

Brickwork removal with Bi-fold

£3500

up to 2.7m and 2.2m high

doorstudio BEFORE

Fully installed including Vat An amazing transformation by our own skilled craftsmen, and installation completed with 28 days of order confirmation.

so much more than doors

Instant Online Quotes

www.doorstudio.org AFTER

The Door Studio Showroom 27-30 Wharfside Fenny Stratford, Milton Keynes MK2 2AZ

Call our Brochure Line now on 01908 645566


Your June crossword

Solution on page 30

UPLIFTING ENTERTAINMENT AT MILTON KEYNES THEATRE! WIT H IN ASS OCIA TION FIER Y ANG EL MPTON NGA TE, NOR THA ROY AL & DER PRE SEN T

BY AG AT HA

CHRI ST IE & FR

ANK VO SP ER

TUE 3 – SAT 7 JUL

MON 9 – SAT 14 JUL

MON 16 – SAT 21 JUL

0844 871 7652* ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*

*Booking fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

25

June 2018

Hannah’s hilarious murder mystery show kills it in MK Richard Bateman, owner of award-winning creative agency, westfourstreet, held a Q&A with Little Chico Productions’ creative director Hannah Bloch after being blown away by the brilliance of their last MK show. They return to MK Theatre in June with another comedy murder mystery masterpiece...

Little Chico Productions are well known for murder but, before our readers panic, perhaps you could explain yourselves and what it is your company does? Little Chico Productions has been running for 6 years, providing outrageously silly interactive murder mystery evenings. At the beginning of the night you will witness a murder; we then invite you to become detectives by speculating about the clues left, interrogating the characters and making accusations, before ultimately deciding who you think dunnit! Our actors are professional, with extensive West End and UK touring credits to their names but, more importantly, they are friendly, warm, silly individuals who are there to enjoy the evening. Our mission is to bring exciting, affordable theatre to those looking for an entertaining night of theatre and mystery! You came to MK Theatre in February (due to return on June 10 and 17) to sold out audiences. Each audience will no doubt be different. How do you react and adapt to this during a murder mystery evening?

Performance dates: June 10 and 17 Tickets available from ATG Tickets The first 30 minutes of the evening takes place over a welcome drink where actors mingle in character setting the scene. This is a great opportunity to not only set up the story, but it also gives the actors time to gauge who wants to get really involved in the action and who is happier sitting back and watching the story unfold – the last thing we want is for someone to feel uncomfortable. The evening is part scripted, part improvised so there is plenty of room for individuals to join in with the fun if they wish. We aim to give each individual the experience they want on the night, and our actors are very good at deciphering who wants what! How supportive have MK Theatre been to your company? MK Theatre have been fantastic! They have given

us a platform to reach so many more theatre-loving individuals in Milton Keynes. We have performed almost all of our scripts at the venue, with access to all areas, sometimes even using the stage when it is dark. The wonderful staff have been accommodating to our requests and we hope to continue our strong partnership with them for many murders to come! What’s next for Little Chico? There will be another script coming out this year, taking our repertoire of Murder Mystery scripts to 8. We hope to continue bringing professional and affordable entertainment to those that want to enjoy a hilarious evening with a murderous twist!

Read the full interview at celebratemk.co.uk


DISCOVER EVERYTHING DAVID LLOYD CLUBS HAS TO OFFER

VISIT DAVIDLLOYD.CO.UK OR CALL 0345 129 6807 TO BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY David Lloyd Milton Keynes Livingstone Drive, Newlands, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK15 0DL


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

27

June 2018

show stoppers

Mad about Matilda The Musical Nancy Stevens previews the musical theatre show and global phenomenon taking over MK Theatre this month

M

atilda The Musical is the BIG show at Milton Keynes Theatre this month. Winner of 85 international awards, including 16 for Best Musical, the RSC’s touring production plays from June 5 to June 30. It will be accompanied by a new education programme for young people. From a travelling library of stories led by Mrs Phelps, to whole school takeovers of Matilda, the RSC aims to reach over 15,000 children in collaboration with touring theatre partners. The show begins with a chorus of children boasting about being their parents' miracles. The ballroom dancingobsessed Mrs Wormwood gives birth to a baby girl, Matilda. Matilda – an avid reader who is dark, clever and funny – lives unhappily with her

parents and older, gormless brother Michael. The Wormwoods are oblivious to her abilities and frequently mock her. Left to her own devices, Matilda spends all her time at the library. She discovers she has telekinetic powers and uses these and yearns to attend school, but her parents refuse. In retaliation, she starts playing tricks on her father. He relents and lets Matilda attend a run-down school, Crunchem Hall, run by Agatha Trunchbull, the tyrannical principal. Matilda discovers Trunchbull's violent nature, who punishes students by locking them in ‘Chokey’, a cupboard lined with sharp objects. Fortunately, her teacher Miss Honey likes Matilda, recognising her incredible genius. Moved by her mistreatment

at home, she asks if Matilda can stay with her. Meanwhile, Mr Wormwood has made himself an enemy of the Russian Mafia by trying to swindle them but they are impressed and moved by Matilda's intellect and agree not to harm the Wormwoods. Mr Wormwood allows Matilda to live with Miss Honey. "Trunchbull is the kind of villainess children can enjoy, because she is too ridiculous to be taken seriously and yet really is mean and evil,” said Catherine Mallyon, RSC Executive Director. “We are thrilled that our home-grown miracle has become a global phenomenon.” Listen to Nancy Stevens’ award winning local arts show on Secklow Sounds 105.5FM on Sunday nights from 6pm-8pm. Listen again at spreaker.com/ show/stevens-on-sunday

20,000 copies of Celebrate:MK are delivered to homes, businesses and busy pick-up points in MK every month


28

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

What's inside Pandora's Box? Jason Day previews the rerelease of a silent film about Lulu, the new Jurassic World movie and more cinema releases in June Pandora's Box (out on June 1) elected cinemas are rereleasing this dazzling silent drama about Lulu (Louise Brooks), whose sexual precociousness arouses and destroys everyone around her. Brooks would pay the price for challenging the Hollywood system, but she left us with an unforgettable clutch of performances along the way. Read more about her and the film at bit.ly/pandorafilm Book Club (June 1) A top-flight female cast (Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Mary Steenburgen) star as a group of pals who spice up their private lives by group reading mummy-porn S&M novel Fifty Shades of Gray. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (June 6) You’d think it was difficult to top the first World film. But, judging by the trailers, this one will thoroughly trample over it. Chris Pratt returns as the dinosaur ‘trainer’ who must help when the beasts from the now abandoned dino theme park cause mayhem in the outside world. Hereditary (June 15) Toni Collette is the doll’s house designer whose mother dies. A series of mysterious events then start to happen, centred around Collette’s strange, quiet daughter. Is the grandmother haunting her family? This has enough chills to go

er w e i v e r l Ree

S

down and back up your spine. Freak Show (June 22) Sting’s missus Trudie Styler assumes the megaphone duties here. A ‘gender-obliterating’ teen who likes dressing up, starts at a High School in a southern state in the US. People are hostile, but he is determined to tackle this and become Prom Queen. Alex Lawther is the boy/girl and Bette Midler is shameless as his drink-loving mom. Ocean’s 8 (22 June) Another top-line actress led

movie (Sandra Bullock, Anne Hathaway) for this crime caper. Bullock is the recently released convict who teams up with shady Cate Blanchett to rob the Met Gala ball. Or more precisely, the $100m diamond necklace around guest Hathaway’s neck. You can read more in-depth reviews from Jason by following him on Twitter: @Reelreviewer

Demi’s fans will Lov Brooke

T

eenage MK singer Brooke Layla is set to perform on Demi Lovato’s world tour this month. The 13-yearold, who shot to fame as a semi-finalist on The Voice Kids

TV show, will perform at Birmingham Arena on the platinum selling artist’s tour. Brooke also supported Harry Styles in April. You can follow her on Twitter @Brookelayla3


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

29

June 2018

Go bananas for Ampthill Festival Music reporter Vicki McCarthy features AmpRocks, a decade-old event with Bananarama, Example and Reef headlining on June 29

W

ith the recent sunshine, you can be forgiven for thinking about summer days on the beach. But for me, the arrival of sunshine simply means ‘festival season’ and that brings a big smile to my face! I love attending music festivals, big and small, and the rise in local festivals not only brings the music to my doorstep, but also keeps the cost down. One of the local events I attend each year is the fantastic Ampthill Festival. Just a mere hop, one junction down the M1 from MK, this festival has actually been going for 40 years. But the last ten years has seen it take its current format, spread over three days, suiting music-lovers perfectly. I chatted to Mark Tiana, Chairman of AmpRocks, the event that takes place on the Friday night. Previous acts include The Happy Mondays, Busted, The

Human League, Scouting for Girls, Cast and The Lightning Seeds to name but a few. So what’s AmpRocks about? “It’s a home-grown festival, run by great volunteers,” Mark said. “AmpRocks is a decade old next year and we’ve brought some great acts to our town. We put on a concert where there’s something for everyone.” Taking place in Ampthill’s Great Park, the area’s linked to the royal family and is steeped in some fine history. Due to the hard work of Ampthill Festival volunteers the park is creating modern history too. “The festival’s a real community event,” Mark added. “We’re a committee and we work together to provide a diverse weekend for all, with AmpRocks on Friday, the Proms on the Saturday and finally, a free family gala day on the Sunday.” And it benefits charities? “Yes, many!” Mark said. “Local charities, from the Scouts,

The scene MIND and the Park Fund, for example. All other money goes back into the kitty towards funding next year’s festival.” So this month, AmpRocks has a stellar line-up again, with headliners announced as Bananarama, Example and Reef, crowds are expected in their droves. Even better, the organisers book a local high-school band to open up for the headliners, this year that honour goes to The Kazoos. What’s next? Well, 2019 is AmpRocks’ ten year celebration and Mark says they plan to make it bigger and better. Watch this space. So grab your tickets fast, support your local music scene and let’s keep on making history! Tickets are on sale now at ampthillfestival.co.uk

Call 07928 027444 or email jon@celebratemk.co.uk if you are interested in advertising in Celebrate:MK


30

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

The importance of consistent online content for businesses Heather Murphy, owner of the excellent PR & Marketing agency Brand Mission, talks about ‘hero moments’ and more this month...

M

arket research suggests people encounter 5-7 positive touch points with businesses before they become paying customers. This happens through a series of marketing approaches; from creating brand awareness, encouraging trust and showcasing a good reputation by producing consistent content across all marketing channels. Social media growth continues at warp speed, but how does your business leverage your platforms in the most effective way? Social content gives your brand an identity, allowing you to use relevant language

to connect to your audience – but getting the balance of how many posts and publishing at the right time can prove challenging. If your goal is to reach more people and drive traffic, keep content fresh and relevant to your product/service and optimise posts for times when your audience is most likely to see them. It’s important to maintain consistent content but avoid flooding your followers’ newsfeeds. If your priority is to reduce the cost of acquisition, increase revenue, grow

website traffic or convert leads into customers, your strategy should include constant content to keep the drum beating with hero moments throughout the year. Our team of experts can help your brand be heard in a crowded space by developing integrated campaigns and creating content. Get in touch to see how we can help. Contact Heather and her team at Brand Mission by emailing info@brandmission.co.uk Follow the team on Instagram @brand_mission

Crossword solution for June Dental care of the highest standard in calm and relaxing surroundings General Dentistry, Implants, Tooth Whitening, Specialist Care, Sedation for Phobics

Call us on 01908 569949 Visit mkdentalspa.co.uk or find us on Facebook

You can find this month’s crossword on page 24. No peeping at the answers until you’ve finished!


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

31

June 2018

Stephen back on track thanks to Response Business Finance Stephen Farr, owner of appliance repair company MK DART, explains how he reached a ceiling of where he could take his business to. However, after getting in touch with Response Business Finance, he’s moving forward again

I

started MK DART (Milton Keynes Domestic Appliance Response Team) in September 2015 after being forced to give up a successful career in sales due to family issues that year. This had an adverse effect on my credit rating. I have always had to work hard for what I wanted and starting MK DART from scratch was no exception. After two and a half years, I built a company where my wife looks after the accounts, Steph (our admin lady) arranges the bookings and I am out in the field, working alongside our apprentice (Jack), on a full-time basis. The business had reached a ceiling of where I could get it to. Taking time to train

T

Jack was slowing me down. I needed to get him trained and

Matthew Stapleton Associate at Response Business Finance. How we helped MK DART

his is a typical, familyrun business with all hands to the pump. Stephen had initially been too busy to get back to me but I eventually gave him my address and invited him to my home for a “sitdown”. What I found was a profitable little business with aspirations to expand and put some requisite contingencies in place.

We at RBF were keen to assist and exhaust any and all options to get this profitable business the funds it needed. If you want to know more about what MK Dart do, visit them at www.mkdart.co.uk or, if you want to know more about how we helped the business and chart their progress, visit us at www. responsebusinessfinance. co.uk/news.

have him generating revenue for the business rather than being an additional cost. After requesting assistance on LinkedIn, Matthew Stapleton from Response Business finance contacted me. The ‘can do’ attitude of Matthew and Mark at Response Business Finance was second to none. They took the time to sit with me to discuss my business, my future plans and eventually came up with a solution that has enabled the business to expand. Jack has since been booked to attend a training course in June which will give me the freedom to concentrate on growing the business and building partnerships with local landlords, housing developers and even the local council with our new ‘ABC’ initiative.

To contact Response Business Finance, call 01908 597937, email info@rbfinance.co.uk or visit responsebusinessfinance. co.uk. Follow them on social media at @RBFinanceMK


Now with over 1800 everyday essentials.

essential Waitrose is a range of hundreds of everyday shopping items at everyday, affordable prices. And even though the prices may take you by surprise, every item is sourced and produced without ever compromising on the quality you’ve come to expect from Waitrose.

waitrose.com/Oakgrove Not available in motorway service stations.

Visit your local branch of Waitrose at Oakgrove, Milton Keynes

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 7am-10pm, Sunday 11am-5pm


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

33

June 2018

New MK private members club sets the standard for luxury travel

From London to MK: Travel the world the Alpha way

P

rivate members clubs are increasingly impressing their clientele with bespoke, luxury ‘money can’t buy’ travel experiences. The Alpha Club, which is soon to be launching its first venue outside of London in the CBXII building in central MK this summer, recently whisked an elite group of its London club members away on an exclusive VIP safari, taking in Botswana, South Africa and Zambia on what was a truly bespoke trip. One Alpha Club member suitably impressed was Travel de Courcey business owner Adrian de Courcey. The demands of running a £16million business mean there’s often little time left to think about planning the finer things in life. For Adrian and his wife (pictured inset), guests on the recent safari trip, this is where membership of a club like Alpha has proved a sound choice. Adrian describes the uncompromising attention to detail of every aspect of the trip as being what set the Alpha Club holiday apart from other luxury travel he has experienced before. “For me, it was genuinely the trip of a lifetime,” he said. “The food was out of this world. The whole thing really was incredibly well done.”

This commitment to excellence is what The Alpha Club aims to bring to every part of its offering. As well as the incredible travel opportunities – the next trip planned is to Vegas, for those drawn to the bright lights – the club is fast building a reputation for its incredible gourmet food and experiences here in the UK too. For the ambitious professionals the new club hopes to attract, membership will provide stellar opportunities not just for networking with other like-minded people, but also a first class venue for both business and leisure. For those like Adrian de Courcey, The Alpha Club has already proved how valuable the opportunity is to be part of a group so committed to truly luxury concierge services outside of London

for the first time. Of the recent safari trip, he added: “For my wife and I, it wasn’t just that the big things were taken care of, but even the small things! Every tiny thing was thought about, and taken care of for you.” While many people dream of taking a ‘once in a lifetime’ trip, the reality of planning every last detail is so often out of reach for today’s busy professionals. With the ambition of transforming the way business is done in MK, The Alpha Club will serve incredible food too as Michelin starred executive chef Adam Simmonds has been appointed. The first class food Adrian experienced on his luxury trip promises to be central to the club itself. Fine food, luxury travel, exquisite events – the Alpha Club has it all covered.

Call 01908 354690 or visit alpha-club.co.uk to find out more about the benefits of Alpha Club membership


34

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

Grand Designs brings great ideas

H

Interiors-obsessed blogger Becky Pink to Home showcases Grand Designs' big house House exposition, which has given her inspiration

ave you ever been to a big house expo, like the Ideal Home Show or Grand Designs

Live? I’ve been to a few and always come home filled with inspiration and wishing I was rich! Last month, I went to Grand Designs Live in London and found these beautiful room sets. They are each created by a different interior designer and have gorgeous design details. First up is this yellow and monochrome kid’s bedroom (below) by Little Mill House. It’s so unique, with playful details like the slide leading to a ball pit. What a way to wake up! Little Mill House focus on upcycling and using sustainable materials, which

appeals to me, as I’m so conscious of the mess our poor planet is in! Also, check out how they’ve used astro turf instead of carpet, and the amazing chalk board wall! My creative kids would love it. This beautiful blush pink and green living room (below) is so inviting, isn’t it? This luxe room is designed by Jade Maria Interiors, and contrasts luxurious cushions, curtains and rug with pared back furniture and lots of beautiful plants. Don’t you just want to sink into that velvet sofa? Lastly, the designers from Finch London chose ecofriendly paint and materials to construct this dream kitchen. Also showcasing a gorgeous dusky pink and green vibe,

this stunning kitchen is full of chic, sustainable details like the cork floor and clock. I’d love a living herb wall like this but I suspect mine wouldn’t look quite so lush! And what about that black pantry? I think it’s too pretty to hide away. Which is your favourite look? Grand Designs Live will be on in October, up in Birmingham. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re planning any home projects. Becky Pink is a freelance copywriter and journalist who blogs about her family, life and home at pinkscharming.com. Follow @pinkscharming on Instagram and Twitter

Follow us @CelebrateMK


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

35

June 2018

High street agent or online agent: What’s the difference? Tom King, owner of the award-winning King Estate Agents at Furzton Lake, explains the difference in service offered by high street and online agents...

Column

R

ecently people have been asking me the difference between online and high street estate agents. The first question to consider when selling your home is, do I want to instruct an agent to market my property or to sell my property? An estate agent working on a no sale no fee basis, will be working until completion before they get paid, whereas online agents are often paid upfront, so regardless of the outcome they have made their sale. I don’t view things as clear cut as online vs high street as all estate agents will advertise on portals such as Rightmove, so everyone is online. The location of the branch is largely irrelevant these days as not many clients visit agents in their office. The key factor is more about service. A local agent, that only gets paid on completion will be more proactive in encouraging viewings, gathering better feedback if conducting the viewings themselves and

FOR SALE: This 4 bedroom semi detached house in Beddoes Croft, Medbourne, is available from King Estate Agents for £425,000 they should give a better service with higher levels of communication in progressing the sale through to completion. Online agents, although cheaper, often have all after sale care handled by a call centre, who will not have built any sort of relationship with either the buyer or seller. At King Estate Agents we have seen on lots of occasions this year, where we have built excellent relationships with buyers and sold them properties that they had not initially enquired about. These opportunities simply wouldn’t have emerged with an agent that simply puts your house on Rightmove. Around 51% of people that pay an online agent upfront eventually sell, so they may feel they have saved some money against traditional estate agency fees. However, that leaves a large proportion of people who have paid out money, only to then have to

use a different estate agent to sell their home. Buying and selling houses is an emotional process and a good agent will get to know both a buyer and seller’s needs and work hard to get them the desired outcome. Although technology has had an excellent impact on how people search for houses, it cannot replace the human element of buying and selling houses. This is where an excellent agent can really make the difference. If you have any questions around the current market or what service may suit your needs then feel free to call me on 01908 272724. If you are looking for any specific advice about selling your home or would like a free valuation of your property, call Tom and his team at King Estate Agents on 01908 272724 or email info@kingestateagents.com

Looking to sell your house? Call 01908 272724, email info@kingestateagents.com or visit kingestateagents.com


Digital print deals on your doorstep Fast, friendly and reliable local printers. Internet prices with a personal service. 250 BUSINESS CARDS

1000 A5 FLYERS

1000 A6 POSTCARDS

1000 A4 LEAFLETS

£28

£32

£48

from

from

£22

from

from

REGAL LITHO

Unit 3 Enigma Building · Bilton Road · Denbigh East · Bletchley · Bucks · MK1 1HW

sales@regallitho.co.uk • www.regallitho.co.uk

Tel: 01908 270400

Home Fuels Gas & Oil Plumbing & Heating Services • Full Gas boiler service – £40 with certificate. • Full landlord Gas check – £40 with certificate. • Full Heating Systems. • Complete bathroom installation. • Solar & Heat source servicing. • Breakdowns and maintenance.

Learning the

FUNdamentals of Football

www.LittleKickers.co.uk #MoreThanJustFootball

Tel: 07867 386343 Call or text

Based in Oakgrove, Milton Keynes

Email mk@littlekickers.co.uk

Football fun for 18 months – 7 year olds


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

37

June 2018

MKFM and Destination MK team up for weekend shows The

M

column

ilton Keynes local radio station MKFM and local tourist information service Destination Milton Keynes have announced they will partner to present two new weekend radio shows. The news comes as MKFM has seen a big increase in listeners and online reach over the last 12 months. The dedicated local radio station for Milton Keynes says the new relationship with Destination Milton Keynes will help residents, visitors and business owners alike. Darren Dorrington, MKFM Managing Director, said: “We can't wait to get started, MKFM has a strong listener base inside Milton Keynes as well as a large radio and online reach across nearby counties, including Northamptonshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. “MKFM is all about Milton Keynes and it's fantastic to be able to promote everything that's great and going on across our city.” Destination Milton Keynes is the city’s official Destination Management Organisation, tasked with managing the visitor economy of MK. They deal with local, national and international

Two new radio shows are on their way to MKFM from 9am on Saturday and Sunday, hosted by Steven Gordon-Wilson

enquiries on a daily basis from members of the public, businesses, councils and organisations that want to come and visit the city and do business. DMK runs marketing campaigns throughout the year to drive business for the leisure and business industry in Milton Keynes. It also operates the Visitor Information Centre at centre:mk and provides marketing and business support to its members ranging from restaurants, to leisure attractions, to businesses and now – a radio station. Notably, DMK runs the annual #LoveMK day, which this year launched on the MKFM Breakfast Show. CEO Steven Gordon-Wilson said: “We’re always looking for new ways to engage with the public to promote Milton Keynes and show off what a vibrant, exciting city it is to

visit. I can’t think of a better way than by broadcasting every weekend and talking directly to visitors as they are planning their day in the city. “MKFM is such a great asset to the city and we’re delighted to be partnering with them… plus, I’m a bit of a radio nerd and can’t wait to get the headphones on!” The new Destination MK show will be hosted by Steven Gordon-Wilson, and broadcast on MKFM every Saturday and Sunday from 9am. The station broadcasts on 106.3FM in Milton Keynes, on DAB Digital Radio across the region and worldwide online at mkfm.com, on mobile and on smart speakers such as Amazon Echo. Listen to MKFM on 106.3FM. For more information on Destination Milton Keynes go to destinationmiltonkeynes. co.uk

Celebrate:MK is exclusively the only MK magazine stocked in bulk at David Lloyd Club and Waitrose


MILTON KEYNES PREMIER BODYWORK REPAIRS SPECIALIST & ALLOY WHEEL REFURBISHMENT COMPANY We specialise in repairs to your vehicle’s body work and alloy wheels, making Scuf f N Scratch Solutions the most convenient and cost ef fective way of repairing your car.

10% Discount on all bodywork repairs! Call & quote:

‘PAINT MK’ (T&C’s apply)

Fully insurance approved Locally established business with great reputation

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

Check out our social media for more examples of our great repairs!

SERVICES WE PROVIDE Paint work repairs

Vandal key scratch repairs

Dented panel repairs

Full resprays & custom bodywork

Minor crash repairs

Commercial vehicle repairs

Machine polishing/detailing

Alloy wheel refurbishment

Insurance bodywork repairs

01908 377217

scuffnscratchsolutions.co.uk Email: info@scuffnscratchsolutions.co.uk

Monday-Friday 7.30am till 5pm Saturday 9am till 3pm Unit 9, Denbigh Hall, Milton Keynes, MK3 7QT

ALLOY WHEEL REFURBISHMENT

SPECIAL OFFER

£40 + VAT

Per alloy wheel up to 19 inch (T&C’s apply)


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

39

June 2018

Warning! Beware of tyre labels Ray Pantling, owner of Tyres Direct, recommends you to do your research on the tyres you buy, rather than trusting labels

Y

ou might be surprised to learn that while tyre grading labels are now mandatory in the EU, there’s no independent body to verify them. Instead its down to the tyre manufacturers themselves to grade their own products, so does this leave the door open for made-up ratings? I personally make it my business to attend tyre testing track days and have discovered from experience that this is the case in many circumstances, in my opinion. Anyway, the label on each new tyre must specifiy fuel consumption, wet grip and

TyrE Talk noise classification to help you make a more informed decision when shopping. But I would strongly suggest you to look at tests by magazines such as Auto Express (pictured inset, right)

and independent tyre reviews. Unlike the labels, they’re testing all round performance and not just a narrow window. For more info on this, pop in to see us at the address below or visit bletchleytyres.co.uk

SPECIAL OFFERS* TRACKING

£20

CAR PUNCTURE £12 WHEEL BALANCE £7 / WHEEL

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

ISHED O

RS

Call us today on 01908 367770 @TyresDirectBletch www.bletchleytyres.co.uk

BL

R VE

EST A

*only on production of this advertisement!

YEA

UNIT 51 • BARTON ROAD • WATER EATON IND EST BLETCHLEY • MILTON KEYNES • MK2 3BN


40

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

‘Our Workplace Pension is simple to set up online and has perks’

I

Christine Hallett, CEO of Carey Corporate Pensions UK, explains the perks of setting up a Workplace Pension with the Defaqto-rated Furzton business

’m back with another column for Celebrate:MK to give you some further insight into Carey Corporate Pensions UK, and how we can help your business. Rated by Defaqto, we pride ourselves on our customer care and commitment to supporting everyone, from the smallest to the largest employer. We make sure we are resourced to be accessible for you from start to finish, with person to person availability

for every employer and all scheme members for the life of the pension scheme. You won’t find any automated phone systems with us! The Carey Workplace Pension is a qualifying workplace pension scheme as defined by The Pensions Regulator and is suitable for use for Auto-Enrolment; with independent governance at its heart, using independent external trustees. We have a 5 STAR rating for

Auto-Enrolment from Defaqto, which is an independent financial research company that specialises in analysing and rating financial products for consumers. Our Workplace Pension is simple to set up online and has perks including investment options available outside of default, a clear charging structure, transfers in and out and tax relief through payroll. Use our special MK50 offer below to establish your pension scheme for just £50!

directautoenrolment.co.uk/referrer/MK50 All employers with at least one employee must set up a workplace pension. It is the law. We can help 0330 124 1510 Carey Corporate Pensions UK Limited is registered in the UK under Company No 09358998. The Carey Workplace Pension Trust (PSR 12006391) is regulated by The Pensions Regulator.


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

41

June 2018

Tattoos and piercings: A turn on or turn off for employers? Elizabeth McGlone is a Partner and employment legal eagle law specialist at Neves Solicitors in MK. Here, Elizabeth looks at the laws on recruitment and discrimination

Y

ou are recruiting for a sales manager, a customer facing role and the applicant in front of you has a lip piercing, nose piercing and wrist/hand tattoos. Do you... 1. Automatically make the judgement that the candidate is not right for the role? 2. Consider what the applicant would look like minus the piercings and with strategically placed clothing? 3. Proceed to ask the candidate whether the piercings can/will be removed and the tattoos covered up? 4. Look past the tattoos and piercings and consider them as a ‘sign of the times’ or an ‘expression of individuality’? Whatever your personal viewpoint, this is something that employers and potential employers are having to face more frequently as it has become more socially acceptable for people to have visible piercings and tattoos and not consider that this may have an impact on their employability. The key question here is,

can you decide not to recruit someone solely on the basis of your dislike of their tattoos and piercings? The simple answer is yes. If you do not think that the display of tattoos and piercings on an employee is suitable for your business brand or you think it will have an impact on your customer loyalty then you are entitled to make the decision that is best for your business. People often believe that it is ‘illegal’ for a potential employer to cite this is a reason for rejecting a candidate or a ‘discriminatory practice.’ A claim for discrimination can only be asserted following alleged less favourable treatment on

the grounds of a ‘protected characteristic’ (disability, race, religion & belief, age, gender reassignment, marriage & civil partnership, pregnancy & maternity, sex, sexual orientation). On the flip-side of the above, some employers have adopted the attitude that employing people with tattoos and piercings has had a positive impact on their brand image as they are seen to be ‘in touch’ and an organisation that is forward thinking, ‘funky’ and accepting of different types of people. Others simply say that they want the best candidate for the role and therefore look past personal appearance to ensure they do not miss out on talent.

Call Elizabeth at Neves Solicitors on 01908 304560


42

Email jon@celebratemk.co.uk to book your advertising

Adam Lacey, Editor of satirical online newspaper The MK Herald, has three outstanding scoops for his first spoof news page in Celebrate:MK...

Polar bear scheme ‘going well’

T

he introduction of live polar bears to the ski slope in Milton Keynes has been running smoothly for over a week now. The bears are surprisingly tame and don’t seem phased by people using the slope. However, at times they have become a little too relaxed and caused some accidents when laying down for a rest but do seem to “add more realism to the experience.”

Furzton Lake submarine New redway surfaces for the summer speed limit

H

undreds of people waited patiently this morning at Furzton Lake for its submarine to make its annual surfacing. The submarine stays afloat up until late September each

year before descending back to the bottom of the lake. The submarine has lived in the lake for the last 20 years, since 1998, after it was given as a peace offering from Dunstable Council.

B

ad news for cyclists, joggers or slow walkers – the council has announced new health and safety plans to enforce a new 4mph speed limit on our redways. The exciting measure will mean anyone using the routes will not be allowed to go under or exceed the speed limit, or they could face a £50 fine or a ban. Locals are trying to find ways to blame Brexit.

Read more spoof stories on The MK Herald’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ miltonkeynesherald


Visit celebratemk.co.uk for more news from around MK

43

June 2018

To advertise in Celebrate:MK Business Directory email jon@celebratemk.co.uk Beauty & Hair The Tanning Shop.....01908 234512 Dentist MK Dental Spa...........01908 569949 Design Agency westfourstreet...........01908 618639 Education and Training Uni of Buckingham....01280 814080 Electrical Installations VIR Electrical...... .........01908 569691 Estate Agents King Estate Agents.....01908 272724 Fashion The Dress Empire.......07841 163238 Food & Drink Maaya Indian..............01908 242665 Riverford MK..............01908 238100

Health Blakelands Hospital 01908 049665 Sports Massage........07768 892643 Nutritional Therapy 07866 056250 Home and Garden The Door Studio........01908 645566 Home Fuels................07867 386343 Prestige Lawns..........01908 542422 Luxury Members’ Clubs Alpha Club MK..........01908 354960 Motoring Scuff ‘N’ Scratch........01908 377217 Tyres Direct MK.........01908 367770 Pensions Carey Pensions..........03301 241510 Public Relations Brand Mission..............07970 395110

Printers Regal Litho .................01908 270400 Solicitors Neves Solicitors.........01908 304560 Schools Webber Independent..01908 574740 Roofing 1st Call Roofing.........01908 886355 Sport and Fitness David Lloyd Club.......03451 296807 Project:F1t....info@project-f1t.com Taxis Skyline Taxis...............01908 222111 Theatre MK Theatre.................08448 717652 Water Purification Smart Water Filters...01234 889743

Nutritional Therapy For... Better sleep Greater energy Improved mood

For support from a fully qualified Nutritionist call 07866 056250 or visit stresslessliving.co.uk

Body & Mind - Swedish Massage by Claire Sparrow Re-align and rejuvenate, cleansed of toxins and feeling great. Pristine and professional setting and service

Call Claire on 07802 422778 Or email sparrowclaire5@gmail.com


NO CASH? NO PROBLEM! Pay securely using your credit or debit card

.co.uk s i x a t e skylin 85 Est.19

Download Our App Today Milton Keynes Milton Keynes

01908 222 111 Olney

Northampton

Flitwick


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.