GLPC Parish Councillors, the wards they represent and their contact details.
All Councillor email addresses: firstname.surname@great-linford.gov.uk
Councillors can be contacted on 01908 606613
Conniburrow
Jimmy El-Zamek
Joan Pickhaver
Rooda Abihdilia
Downhead Park & Willen Park North
Mubina Chakera
Ed Nixon (Chair)
Downs Barn
Janet Brindley Vacancy
Giffard Park & Blakelands
Sandra Trew
Wangu Bothongo Vacancy
Great Linford
Christine Onan
Donna Nicholls
Rick Dunn
Leigha Britnell
Neath Hill
Martin Burgess
Sean Porter
Pennyland & Bolbeck Park
Derek Harvey
Tony Blake
Redhouse Park
Franco Iannotta
Willen Park South
Tara Jefferies
Summer2024
Comment
Welcome
I’m afraid that start this edition’s column on a sombre note: our Vice Chair, Trevor Heale, has sadly passed away.
Since joining the council in 2016, Trevor’s contributions have been invaluable, particularly his passion for environmental issues. His dedication, drive, and friendship will be deeply missed. Perhaps the best way to remember Trevor’s contribution is to forge ahead with those environmental ideals that he was so passionate about, many of which continue to be important to our community life in the Parish. Please turn to pages six and seven for a special tribute from some of those who knew him best.
Also in this edition of the magazine, we are sharing details of the development of the Conniburrow Community Programme, with news that the new Hub will offer a space for a Community Fridge, a Wellbeing and Community café, youth activities, and outreach programmes. It will also serve as a distribution centre for MK Food Bank and Girl Pack, and host various advice sessions. The Hub is designed to create a lasting legacy, fostering sustainable activities and events for residents to benefit from for years to come.
Back in March, we hosted the inaugural Community Forum session, with strong participation from MKCC Landscape, Waste, Resident Engagement, City Councillors, Thames Valley Police, and Neighbourhood Watch. The event fostered lively debates and generated numerous questions, underscoring its success. We encourage all residents to attend future sessions.
Nationally, we have a summer of major sporting events to look forward to, with the Olympic Games, Wimbledon, and the recent Euros causing excitement, and I am sure many will be inspired to get involved with sports and leisure activities as a result. We are fortunate that the Parish offers some truly great facilities, and we take a closer look at what’s on offer in the local area. Do get involved – sport can be fun!
Our goal is to continue building a strong, cohesive community. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and remain dedicated to supporting and enhancing the lives of our residents. Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
I hope you enjoy this issue of Your Parish Magazine.
Cllr Ed Nixon Chair, Great Linford Parish Council
Getting saucy with TOMATOES
Cooking with homegrown produce gives you a satisfaction that is missing when you pick up your groceries from the supermarket – and what you grow in your back gardens and greenhouses tastes so much better too!
Last issue we met Jean Cocker who works a large allotment space on Conniburrow. She spoke passionately about the benefits – both physical and mental – of growing her own vitamin rich veggies, and this time she has thrown open her recipe book to show how to utilise those vegetables with an easy, nourishing family staple.
“My dinner plate contains homegrown produce almost every day,” Jean said, “It’s satisfying to think, ‘I grew that’, and you know it has been grown free of pesticides, and it hasn’t been flown in from other countries, as so often happens. “The taste is unbeatable too!” she said, “I grow so many tomatoes and make lots of sauces for myself, and my family – all of the vegetables and herbs in the recipe are self grown, and with a little bit of work, it’s easy to grow them yourself. It is so much healthier than shop bought sauces too, because it’s all fresh produce and no added sugar. The little tiny tomatoes you get are so sweet – I don’t bother sitting down with a bag of sweets, I have a bowl of tomatoes instead. They are delicious!”
Jean’s brilliant bolognese
Sauté two large onions and two large peppers Add 500 grams of lean mince beef and one beef stock pot, or vegan/vegetarian mince alternative and vegetable stock pot)
Add 500 grams of chopped tomatoes,fresh four cloves of chopped garlic, a large bunch of oregano or two tablespoons of dried oregano and one large tablespoon of tomato purée.
Stir together and simmer for 10 minutes before transferring to the slow cooker for four hours. Serve with a pasta of your choice. Enjoy!
A cress-endo for the windowsill!
Parish
School will soon be out for summer, and finding ways to keep little minds occupied can be tricky – but you can help spark their interest in the pleasures of growing food with these fun window cress tubs.
Packs of cress seeds are easy to find – if you can’t get to a garden centre, Amazon has lots!
Lisa Warner, Communications Officer with Great Linford Parish Council, has been helping her granddaughter Mia to find the fun in cress growing.
“I remember doing this in primary school, and it was fun now seeing it through the eyes of my youngest family members,” Lisa said, “To start, I helped the children wash out some used yogurt pots, which they then decorated using cotton wool, coloured pens and coloured paper. Then we filled the pots with cotton wool balls which had been soaked in waterkitchen roll works just as well, but remember to squeeze out the excess. Pop a teaspoon of cress seeds into the pot and leave them to do their thing in a dry, well-lit space – window sills are ideal,” Lisa said. “Remember, the cotton wool or kitchen wool needs to be kept moist for the cress seeds to grow.
“The children were delighted when the cress heads grew tall in just a few days – and they got to eat their handiwork, of course!”
Let's get PHYSICAL!
If your idea of a good start to the day is a 5K run through our green spaces, or making swift actions with a tennis racquet, you'll know already the power of sport on the mind and body.
But if you were among the brigade who detested school PE lessons, you've possibly carried that negativity into adulthood. We did too!
Make no mistake though, sport is good for us – and it can be fun.
Sporting and fitness activities in the Parish are plentiful, and when the sun shines it can be more of a motivator to get out, enjoy the fresh air, and treat your body the right way. Whether you want to do a spot of dribbling, be bowled over or do the Downward Dog, there are groups in our Parish who can help you on your way. We have cricket teams, football clubs, softball sessions and a tennis club
– not to mention yoga classes and fitness groups, all offering ways to maintain or increase fitness, and increase those feel good endorphins.
At the Marsh End Drive Sports Pavilion and High Street Pavilion, cricket teams including the Printers and Last Man Stands are among the regular bat wavers.
Football fans buoyed up by the recent Euros might like to lace up for a kick about, and Marsh Drive also accommodates teams including Great
find MK Royals Football Club.
Additionally, there are regular opportunities to enjoy softball, tennis, and yoga, and fitness classes including pilates and circuit training.
It can be daunting approaching an established group as the 'new person', but the teams active in our 12 estates would warmly welcome new faces – even if you are only seeking more information and don't want to commit in the first instance.
“Fitness is for everyone of all ages,” said Jane Hefferon, owner of Jane's Fitness, which is active in the Parish, “Really, it is fitness in disguise as we have lots of fun dancing to popular and latin rhythms.”
Jane's classes are open to everyone – new people are always welcome.
“We have occasional social meet ups for afternoon tea, or a coffee, so it's a great way of making new friends,” Jane encouraged. “We are lucky to have so many green spaces, and purpose built places for residents of all ages to be able to get out and enjoy a large number of sporting activities within our estates,” said Parish Manager Eirwen Tagg. “The positive reactions, both physical and mental, can't be underestimated and it is also a great way to get out and meet new people in a social setting.”
Want to start your own club?
Perhaps you would like to hire one of the Great Linford Parish halls or grounds to launch a new sport club, or any other sort of club – because exercising the mind is every bit as valuable as exercising the body.
Sports can be played at the High Street Cricket Ground and Marsh Drive Sports Ground in Great Linford, but any indoor activity can take place in The High Street Pavilion, Marsh Drive Community Centre and Community Centre’s in Conniburrow and Giffard Park.
With a selection of venues, which are all shapes and sizes, we probably have a building just right for your needs.
Visit great-linford. gov.uk/venues-to-hire for further information.
Let’s never get complacent
Is there something in the Parish that is getting you hot under the collar? Whether it’s a speeding issue, anti-social activity or a concern about a proposed new build, we can help if you talk to us.
We only know about the issues affecting you if you tell us. One of the best ways to tackle local issues is by getting in the room together, and the next opportunity to do that is Wednesday, September 11th at 7pm at the Conniburrow Community Centre for the next Community Forum. This is the perfect chance to have your say, ask any questions you have, voice concerns and collaborate with residents and local agencies on the issues that matter.
“The forum began as a trial to improve the attendance of the Police Community Forum,” explained Councillor Tony Blake, charged with making the changes, “Some of the questions being asked of the Police were not ones they were able to answer and would have been best directed to the Council. Our first revamped session was a big hit with residents and the room was packed.
“If you have ever thought, ‘Why did the Council do that?’, ‘How do they spend my taxes?’ or ‘I want some answers but don’t know who to talk to,’ this is your opportunity to speak to the right people and get those answers, face to face. A number of official bodies will be present and there is no need for emails and letters – this is the quickest way to get the ball rolling.”
Attendees at the last forum included City Councillors, Parish Councillors, representatives from Thames Valley Police and Neighbourhood Watch. Managers from Landscape and Waste also joined us to form the guest panel and they will be invited to join us again, together with other departments.
“That last meeting also brought about some quick successes and easy fixes – the manager from Waste addressed a problem from the floor and put the solution into practice the following day – so it really does make a difference. But while some issues can be resolved directly by the Parish Council, not all problems have a quick fix or an easy answer. For matters outside our remit, we can raise the issue with MKCC Officers, or signpost people to other agencies. Together as a community, we can find solutions to the problems,” Tony said, “At the Community Forum meeting we will update residents on the progress that is being made – and these details will also be shared on our website.”
The Community Forum will be held quarterly, at rotating venues in the Parish in order to make it as accessible as possible to everyone. Even if you are unable to attend in person, you can contact us at the Parish Office to register your questions or concerns, which will be raised on your behalf.
“Essentially, we have started something which allows the elected Councillors to meet their electorate and explain any decisions that have been made in the interest of the Parish, or hear their concerns with the opportunity to respond and react swiftly, and with transparency. We want to keep the momentum and welcome as many people as possible to the event on Wednesday, September 11th at 7pm at the Conniburrow Community Centre,” Cllr Blake added, “I love our Parish, and it’s clear from the response to the last meeting that so many of us do. Let’s keep striving for betterment and never get complacent.”
Linford Football Club and Real MK. Over in Conniburrow you’ll
Details of all the clubs operating in the Parish – and how to contact them directly - can be found on our
TOP: Councillor Tony Blake
Remembering Cllr Trevor Heale
As many of you will know, Councillor Trevor Heale sadly passed away in May.
His passing was unexpected and came shortly after he had celebrated his 66th birthday.
His colleagues and the many members of the community that he served so wholeheartedly since joining the Parish Council share in mourning his devastating loss.
We wanted to pay tribute to a special man who applied himself for the betterment of the Parish, and who brought an unrivalled energy and joy to his role, and to all that he did.
Originally from Kent, Trevor had spent 30 years in Milton Keynes; first setting up home in New Bradwell, which is where he met his partner, Jennie Vucelic. He asked Jennie out in 1997, but it would be a whole year before they stepped out for that drink. “Trevor always referred to that as our gap year!” she said, laughing at the memory.
Trevor had worked as a driving instructor for a time, and still kept his hand in, teaching friends’ children to pass their tests, giving the gift of freedom to many. It was one of many selfless tasks that he took on.
Later, his working life saw him employed by the Geo-data company Fugro, working on simulations for underwater vehicles.
Trevor joined the Parish Council in 2017 – it was the perfect fit for a man keen to making positive change, even if Jennie was surprised by his new position, initially: “I never imagined him sitting in council meetings, but he took to it like a duck to water,” she remembered fondly.
Indeed, Trevor became an active, invaluable member of the GLPC team –he was passionate about our community and would always step forward with a positivity that made working with him a delight.
He was Vice Chair of the GLPC for a number of years, and also sat on the Finance Committee and the Community Services and Environment Committee.
A keen environmentalist for a long time, Trevor had become even more invested in the subject in recent years and was very well informed. That knowledge helped to inspire many with his vision for a sustainable future. He practiced what he preached, and his electric car was a source of pride.
He was an advocate for the power of wellbeing, and a keen yoga instructor – something he had taught for two decades. When Covid put the brakes on the physical sessions, he switched online and those classes proved so popular that he continued with an online offering.
“The whole dictionary is not big enough to praise him,” said Vilas Sirah, who attended his Friday morning classes. “He was one of the kindest, most helpful people. He had a good sense of humour, was respectful, encouraging and full of
Trevor Heale: ‘Gentle, supportive and unique’
healing knowledge that yoga could offer. He also encouraged me to become a Councillor for GLPC and guided me in the role whenever I needed support. I miss Trevor immensely and pray that he is as happy in heaven as a yoga angel, as he was here.”
Meg Vischer worked alongside Trevor at those yoga sessions. “Trevor was what you could call ‘a real genuine character,’ she told Your Parish Magazine, “He was ebullient and knowledgeable, teaching his own eclectic version of yoga incorporating aspects of Tai’Chi. He also had a personal mission to help peopleparticularly those with problems of health or physical ability. He also reached a wider group of people remotely through zoom sessions even as far away as the USA. “It is hard to believe he is no longer with us, he is already sorely missed.”
Valerie Rose also came to know Trevor through his work in reiki and yoga: “Trevor has always given his time and experience very generously to the local community and many people have benefited from his kindness, expertise and support, including myself,” she said.
“His loss will leave a big gap in all these circles and he will be remembered for his generosity in so many ways.”
Unsurprisingly for someone so invested in helping others, spare time was limited but when it allowed, long car drives were a favourite pastime and afforded a chance to listen to his music – The Beatles, ELO and Alice Cooper were among his most favoured.
It was Trevor’s wish that there would be no funeral, but instead a celebration of his life was held at Giffard Park Community Centre earlier this month.
“Trevor was the very essence of community and when Covid hit, Trevor, working with volunteers and the office team went above and beyond to deliver food parcels, prescriptions and more importantly a wicked smile and sense of humour,” said Parish Manager Eirwen Tagg. “He was always there to lend a calming hand at every event; litter picks, recognition events and public activities – nothing was ever too much hassle. I will miss clerking his meetings - he had a unique and quirky style, but it was focused, everyone had the opportunity to say their piece and it was important and chilled all at the same time. Trevor was a gentleman, and he was gentle, supportive and unique. We have lost a great example of a Councillor and a friend,” Eirwen added.
“Trevor was very happy in Milton Keynes and was wholeheartedly dedicated to the things he was invested in,” Jennie said, “Trevor just went around being himself, but at the same time he made an impression with so many people. He was always ready to lend a hand or support others. He always wanted to help people and get people involved in things and the Parish Council was a good place for that and for him to make a contribution where he could. Trevor was a very kind and caring person. He was honest and straightforward and very entertaining. He was very funny - will miss his sense of humour, “ Jennie added.
Trevor is survived by Jennie, his sons James and Tim, and four grandchildren.
A JustGiving page has been set up in Trevor’s memory, raising funds for the British Heart Foundation. To donate, please visit justgiving.com and search Trevor Heale.
CONNIBURROW Community Plan
A significant milestone for our community
In the last issue of Your Parish Magazine, we were delighted to be able to share plans for The Conniburrow Community Plan (CCP), following the news that Great Linford Parish Council had been awarded funding from the Big Local Programme for the benefit of Conniburrow residents.
Funding came from the unspent budget of the Big Local Conniburrow which was transferred to GLPC by the local trust. Decisions on how those funds are spent are made collaboratively, with significant community input through consultations and feedback mechanisms.
The CCP is for all residents of Conniburrow, with particular emphasis on inclusivity. It aims to involve people from all demographics, including youth, families, and the elderly, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate and benefit.
Following that announcement earlier this year, we are pleased to share more details for the future of the hub, which is set to open next month, and will work to deliver around three key themes –Physical and mental wellbeing, environmental and community togetherness.
It’s important to realise that this won’t just be GLPC delivering for the community – it’s your community and your input will be key to its success. “Residents can get involved by participating in community meetings, by providing feedback through surveys, and by joining working groups or committees associated with the CCP,” said Asma Moustaoui, GLPC Community Development Coordinator, “We absolutely welcome that, to ensure that the offer
we provide is the right one. The CCP is designed to directly address the needs and aspirations of residents,” Asma continued, “It empowers them to take an active role in shaping their community, leading to improvements that reflect their collective visions and priorities.”
Work has been continuing throughout the spring and summer, and the official opening of the hub is set for 27th August.
“This event will mark a significant milestone for our community, and we want to encourage as many members of our community to engage with it,”
Asma said, “Conniburrow deserves to have this wonderful facility, and am thrilled that it will soon be enhancing the local area, and the lives of the people who call it home.”
This isn’t just work for Asma – this project is a real passion, as is evident by speaking with her. “I am passionate about the CCP because it embodies the principles of community empowerment, equity and engagement,” she smiles, “It is an opportunity to make meaningful, positive changes in Conniburrow to break down barriers, ensuring that every resident feels valued and heard in the development process. This programme is about building a stronger, more connected community, and I am committed to seeing it succeed.”
If you share Asma’s passion for this exciting new venture, please scan the QR code to see how you can get involved –enthusiastic volunteers are being sought to help in many areas.
What you can
expect from the Conniburrow Community Plan
In a GLPC survey, 91% of residents stated the importance of a community centre where free and low cost activities could be accessed, and the CCP will deliver on that requirement.
It will be a place where the Community Fridge can be hosted, together with equally important groups including The Food bank and Girl Pack. Community groups will also be able to utilise the space for meetings, and simply for socialising. Among the assets will be:
Community Hub Cafe
Open every weekday (9am-3pm) it will provide a convenient and accessible space where community members can gather to socialise, and of course enjoy food and beverages.
Light meals and snacks will be served throughout the day, which will support local businesses and employment opportunities. The cafe will be at the heart of the community it serves.
Heego Community Welfare Action Community Evening Cafe
Continuing that theme of togetherness, this cafe will be a relaxed space where community members can gather, socialise, and build connections. It will strengthen community bonds and relationships, promote social cohesion and integration, create opportunities for networking and friendship-building, offering a supportive environment for community members to share experiences and ideas, and enhance the overall sense of belonging and togetherness.
Heego Community Welfare Action After School Homework Club
A structured after-school programme where students will be able to receive academic support, homework assistance, and tutoring in various subjects.
The club is set to provide a conducive environment for students to complete their homework, receive help from qualified tutors, and engage in educational activities.
Raspberry Cookery School for Youth and Children
Learning how to cook and form smart eating choices is the way forward for health, and the Raspberry Cookery School will impart cooking techniques, nutrition education, and how to prepare a variety of dishes. Participants will learn about food sourcing and how to be creative in the kitchen environment.
Sports Mind Activities for Youth and Adults
Incorporating sports and physical activities with mental exercises aimed at improving cognitive functions, concentration, and decision-making skills. Activities may include sports such as football, basketball, or tennis, combined with mental challenges, puzzles, and strategy games.
Arts for Health for all ages
The benefits of art have long been known; artistic expression promotes mental and emotional well-being, and all ages will be invited to explore their creativity and improve their overall health by attending these sessions – social interaction and community engagement will be an important offshoot.
The Conniburrow Community Hub will be opened on August 27 with a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by a community lunch, from midday-4pm. Find the Hub: 37-39 Conniburrow Boulevard, Conniburrow MK14 7DX
We
ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE OF COUNCILLOR?
Great Linford Parish Council currently has Councillor vacancies in Downs Barn and Giffard Park & Blakelands, and we are seeking dedicated individuals to step up and take on the challenge.
If you want to make a change in your community and improve the lives of those around you, this opportunity is for you.
“Becoming a Councillor is about being the voice of your community, advocating for positive change, and working tirelessly to address the issues that matter to those you represent,” said Parish Manager, Eirwen Tagg. “It’s about being a leader, a problem solver and a champion for progress. You will have the chance to shape policies, allocate resources, and implement initiatives that directly impact the lives of residents in your community,” Eirwen added, “Becoming a Councillor allows you to be the change you wish to see in the world. It’s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, to create a brighter future for generations to come, and to make a real difference in the place you call home.”
If you are ready for the challenge, contact the Parish office on Parish.Manager@ great-linford.gov.uk
CULTURAL FESTIVAL TO MARK BLACK HISTORY MONTH
October is Black History Month, and in the Parish an Afro-Caribbean Food and Cultural Festival, in partnership with the African Diaspora Foundation, is planned to take place at the Conniburrow Community Centre on October 12.
“To help celebrate this wonderful event, we will have a live band, food stalls, a chance to listen to some poetry, expert speakers, bouncy castle and so much more,” said Councillor Sandra Trew, “Come and join us and dance the day away!”
ELECTRA MAKES A SPLASH WITH NEW CRUISE FROM GREAT LINFORD
Community boat Electra is introducing a new midweek one-way cruise from Great
Linford Manor Park to the Warbler on the Wharf in Campbell Park, departing at 6pm.
During the 80 minute journey, the on-board Cafe Bar will be open, before you depart and enjoy drinks or dinner at the pub or in the centre of Milton Keynes.
The volunteer operated all-electric boat has also announced two new food cruises, just in time for summer.
“We will also be running a Sunday Brunch Chill-Out Cruise, with light brunch items supplied fresh by The Game Changer Kitchen in Giffard Park, together with a Midsummer Mezes Early Evening Cruise on Thursday,” explained volunteer chair, Denise Taylor.
“These cruises take you to the newest canal bridge and wharf in Milton Keynes from the oldest, where a canal ‘arm’ once linked Newport Pagnell,” she said.
For more information, or to make a booking, visit bmkwaterway.org/electra
GET IN THE DRIVING SEAT!
The Milton Keynes Volunteer Drivers Service provides volunteers to assist children, young people and their families with various appointments, including school, contact sessions and court hearings.
The service is currently supporting several families locally, and is looking for more drivers in this Parish. Could you spare some time to help?
You will provide use of your own vehicle, and must have a full, clear driving licence,
In return, you’ll be paid expenses at 50 pence per mile, be given full training, a DBS check and have a volunteer manager for support.
You donate as much, or as little, time as you are able to, and your support will make the world of difference to those using the service.
Want to find out more, or put yourself forward? Call 01908 670309 or drop an email to miltonkeynes@ volunteeringmatters.org.uk
GET CRIME ALERTS DIRECT
email messaging system that will provide you with regular crime updates, information on ongoing incidents and crime prevention relevant to your area.
Signing up also means that you can help to make your local area safer, by telling the police what they should be doing where you live, and you can help shape the initiatives that keep people and property safe.
Register at thamesvalleyalert. co.uk to receive messages of local crime alerts, witness appeals and information about the area in which you live and work.
FUN TIMES FOR ALL
Great Linford Parish Council invites you to join us for a Family Fun Day on Saturday, July 27.
The event, packed with free activities and delicious food, is being hosted at Conniburrow Community Centre between 11am and 4pm.
IN MEMORY OF LESLEY MACROW
Lesley Macrow was a muchloved figure in the Great Linford community, known and respected for her tireless volunteer work at the Great Linford Hub.
Her dedication was most evident in her culinary contributions; every Monday morning she would arrive early to prepare a community breakfast, on Tuesdays, she could be found bustling about the kitchen, crafting delicious lunches that brought people together.
But perhaps most poignantly, Lesley dedicated her Fridays to cooking for the homeless, preparing more than 300 meals each week.
Lesley’s efforts provided not just food, but also a sense of dignity and care to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
“Lesley was known for her warm, welcoming nature and great sense of humour, and she had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel at home,” said Cllr Donna Nicholls, a close friend who worked with her at the Hub, “She had an extraordinary talent for bringing people together, creating a sense of belonging and unity wherever she went. Lesley’s presence at the Hub was more than just about the meals she prepared; it was about the connections she fostered and the love she shared.”
In memory of the special lady, a bench has been placed in tribute to Lesley, overlooking
WEEKLY EVENTS
Great Linford cricket pitch. The memorial has been placed there by family and friends and is testament to a life lived with generosity, warmth and a boundless spirit of community.
The bench is more than just a piece of furniture; it is a place for reflection and remembrance, and all those who knew Lesley can visit and recall her generosity, her humour, and her unwavering dedication to her community. Lesley’s spirit lives on in the heart of those she touched, and in the community she helped build.
Her legacy of kindness will endure for years to come.
RIGHT: Brunch pancakes on Electra.
ABOVE Lesley Macrow’s memorial bench overlooking the cricket pitch.
Lesley Macrow.
ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
• BROUGHT TO YOU BY GLPC •
FamilyactivitySessions
Family Activities with Conniburrow Children’s Centre
Conniburrow Community Centre MK14 7DX
Every Tuesday throughout the summer holidays
9.30am – 1pm
Suitable for ages 1-5 years
FREE*
No booking required
Ark Farm
Free
Petting Zoo
Come along and say hello to the sheep, pigs, and goats. There will also be chickens, ducks, geese, and maybe a cow or donkey too!
Conniburrow Community Centre MK14 7DX
Tuesday 6th August
10am – 1pm
SUMMER ARTCLUB
A six-week programme offering creative workshops in bookbinding, painting and drawing, eco-printing, clay and more
Working with professional artists, the club aims to develop confidence and creativity in a social and friendly environment. Participants can book onto all the sessions, or single workshops around their availability.
The Barn, Milton Keynes Arts Centre, Parklands MK14 5DZ
Every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays, 2pm
Suitable for ages 8–12 FREE*
Basketball Sessions
Summer Outdoor Basketball Sessions for the Community with MK Breakers
MUGA @ Conniburrow Community Centre MK14 7DX
Every Friday Throughout August
10am – 11am (8-11 years old)
11am – 12 pm (12-16 years old)
Suitable for ages 8–16
FREE*
Booking via mk-basketball-foundation.classforkids.io/
APFAcTivityCamp
Drop-in session with various sports and activities
Conniburrow Community Centre MK14 7DX
Tues 30th July and Tues 20th August
10am – 1pm
Suitable for ages 10-14 years, although younger children welcome
FREE*
No booking required
Puzzle Corner
Suitable for all ages FREE*
No booking required
Book via: miltonkeynesartscentre.org /events
Mini Fun Day
Inflatable Fun and Face Painting
Includes an inflatable activity centre for younger children, an inflatable football shoot-out, a mega slide, and an adult bouncy castle.
Conniburrow Community Centre MK14 7DX
Tuesday 13th August
KidsActivity Sessions
Drop-in session with activities
Great Linford High Street Pavilion
Every Thursday throughout August 1pm – 4pm
Suitable for all ages FREE*
No booking required
10am – 1pm
Suitable for all ages FREE*
No booking required
Play Session including climbing, sports, creative activities and inflatables.
Conniburrow Community Centre, MK14 7DX
Tuesday 27th August
10am – 1pm
Suitable for ages 10–14 but other activities available for younger and older children FREE*
No booking required
Another opportunity to give your brain a mini-workout with our puzzles – complete the word ladder, solve the anagram, and then get busy with the colouring pens on this summer image
Puzzle answers below.
Try your luck at our word ladder
Can you solve our anagram? THAN US
Local events to look out for
Dates
July
for your diary...
Saturday 27th Family Fun Day at Conniburrow Community Centre, with free activities & delicious food. 11am – 4pm
August
Saturday 3rd Community Litter Pick Neath Hill 10am – 12.30pm
Tuesday 27th Conniburrow Community Hub Grand Opening and Community Lunch MK14 7DX 12pm - 4pm
September
Saturday 7th Community Litter Pick Conniburrow 10am – 12.30pm
October
Saturday 5th Community Litter Pick Giffard Park & Blakelands 10am – 12.30pm
Local events to look out for
Saturday 12th Afro-Caribbean Food and Cultural Festival at Conniburrow Community Centre
Don’t forget our regular weekly events...
Breakfast & Banter, Great Linford Community Fridge, Great Linford Community Hub Community Café, Conniburrow Social Space, Citizens Advice Bureau, Food Bank Top Up Shop, Downs Barn Café, Downs Barn Larder, Great Linford Social Club, MKC Housing Officer, Coffee on the Corner, Conniburrow Community Fridge, Food and Friends, Skills Hub, Downs Barn Community Café and theYouth Café.
