MK Pulse Magazine June 2025

JFrom the Kerry Lewis-Stevenson Editor

une in Milton Keynes is anything but quiet – and we wouldn't have it any other way

From twilight walks in aid of an exceptional cause to highoctane live shows and cultural celebrations, this is a month made for getting out and taking part. And truly, what better way to begin than with the return of the Midnight Moo? Willen Hospice’s biggest fundraiser of the year steps off on Friday 20 June, this time from a new starting line at Middleton Hall in centre:mk. Whether you're walking five miles or pushing on for ten, this moonlit stroll isn't just a wonderful show of support – it’s a moving reminder of how fiercely this city backs its own. Last year, more than 1,200 joined the herd. Let’s see if we can top it.

The sense of shared experience continues throughout the summer, not least with the return of IF: Milton Keynes International Festival, landing from 18–27 July. It’s bold, brilliant, and never fails to surprise. Expect circus feats, daring installations, big laughs and big names, all threaded through parks, pavements and pop-ups across the city.

Then, if you’re already humming Girls Aloud hits – you’re not alone. Nadine Coyle will be taking the stage at MK Pride Festival 2025, which returns to Campbell Park on Saturday 13 September. It’s completely free and wholly fabulous, and if last year was anything to go by, it’ll be a proper explosion of pop, pride and joyous community spirit.

Elsewhere in this issue, Sammy Jones explores the vital role of Milton Keynes University Hospital, past, present and future. With our city's population growing fast, it’s more important than ever to understand what’s happening behind those hospital doors.

Add in our usual packed music pages, lively What’s On listings, and a few surprises besides – and it’s clear: this month, Milton Keynes is on the move.

See you out there.

Read previous editions online: www.pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 01908 465488 mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 17 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks MK46 5EA Connect with us on socials: /pulsemagazines @pulsemagazines mkpulsemagazine

FINISHED READING? PASS PULSE MAGAZINE TO A FRIEND OR PLACE IT IN THE RECYCLING.

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Specsavers backs Milton Keynes’ biggest night-time charity walk for 8th year

Willen Hospice’s much-loved Midnight Moo returns this June — and Specsavers Milton Keynes is proudly stepping up as sponsor once again.

Now in its 8th consecutive year of support, Specsavers MK is partnering with Willen Hospice to champion the Midnight Moo, the charity’s biggest night-time fundraiser. The twilight walk, which lights up the redways of Milton Keynes, is set to take place on Friday 20 June at Middleton Hall, centre:mk, with more than 1,000 people expected to ‘join the herd’.

Participants can choose to walk a 5 or 10-mile route, setting off at 10pm, in a show of solidarity and support for the hospice, which provides free, specialist care to people and families affected by life-limiting illness.

Specsavers — with branches in centre:mk and Newport Pagnell High Street — has been a loyal advocate for the hospice’s work. Their continued sponsorship underscores a strong community spirit and heartfelt support for a cause that touches so many lives across Milton Keynes.

“We always enjoy sponsoring the Midnight Moo. It’s a fantastic event, and we’ll have our own Specsavers team walking on the night,” said Steve Moore, Director at Specsavers Milton Keynes. “As a local business, we know many customers and employees who have benefitted from

the incredible support offered by Willen Hospice, and it’s an honour to be involved.”

Tickets are priced at £25 including a Midnight Moo T-shirt, or £20 without. To take part and help support Willen Hospice’s vital work, visit: www.willen-hospice.org.uk/moo

Stay in the loop with everything

Florence the Cow, Willen Hospice’s beloved mascot, joins the team from Willen Hospice and Specsavers MK at the centre:mk store as they prepare for this year’s Midnight Moo

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New appointment to boost city centre safety in Milton Keynes

MyMiltonKeynes has announced the appointment of Sam Bradley as its new City Centre Safety & Operations Lead, bringing with him more than 17 years’ experience in policing, crime prevention, and community safety.

Sam joins the Business Improvement District (BID) following a distinguished career with Thames Valley Police. Most recently, he served within the Violence Reduction Unit, leading safeguarding initiatives to support high-risk young people in Milton Keynes. Throughout his policing career, Sam has led major projects, built strategic partnerships, and introduced innovative crime prevention strategies.

In this new role, Sam will oversee the BID’s crime and safety agenda, working closely with Thames Valley Police, Milton Keynes City Council, and city centre businesses. His responsibilities include developing the City Centre Emergency Plan and MK Ready to Respond programme, managing the BID’s private security team and radio network, and further advancing the City Bar Watch scheme.

One key initiative under Sam’s leadership will be the introduction of a Live Facial Recognition pilot project, aimed at reducing repeat offending within the nighttime economy—a proactive step forward in tackling city-centre crime.

He will also chair the Crime Task Force Meeting, bringing stakeholders together to coordinate city-wide efforts to enhance safety, resilience, and public confidence.

“I’m thrilled to be joining MyMiltonKeynes,” said Sam. “This role allows me to apply my experience in a way that directly benefits the businesses and communities I care deeply about. I’m looking forward to building on the BID’s fantastic work and helping to create a safer, more welcoming city centre.”

Jill Farnsworth, CEO of MyMiltonKeynes, welcomed Sam to the team: “Sam brings a wealth of frontline experience and a

genuine passion for community safety. His proven track record in delivering impactful programmes will be invaluable as we work with partners to ensure Milton Keynes City Centre remains a safe and thriving place for all who live, work and visit.”

> To find out more about MyMiltonKeynes and its safety initiatives, visit www.mymiltonkeynes.co.uk.

Sam Bradley, newly appointed City Centre Safety & Operations Lead at MyMiltonKeynes, brings over 17 years of experience in policing and community safety to the role

Get ready to be amazed!

IF: Milton Keynes International Festival is back!

Mark your calendars! The brilliant IF: Milton Keynes International Festival is returning this summer for 10 glorious days from Friday 18 to Sunday 27 July, promising a feast of creativity and unforgettable experiences across Milton Keynes.

This isn’t your average festival; it’s a dazzling biennial event bursting with everything from jaw-dropping installations and captivating performances to spectacular outdoor shows, circus thrills, comedy gold,

mesmerising cabaret, live music that will get you moving and heaps of free fun for the whole family.

Festival highlights announced to date include:

Deabru Beltzak: Symfeuny (Friday 18 July, 9.45pm)

The Festival kicks off with a bang! Deabru Beltzak’s exhilarating pyrotechnic and drumming promenade performance will ignite the city centre, leading you on a vibrant journey that culminates in spectacular fashion at Campbell Park.

Michael Pendry: Les Colombes (open daily throughout the Festival) Find a moment of peace and reflection in Middleton Hall at centre:mk (the Festival’s headline partner). Michael Pendry’s beautiful multi-media installation will fill the space with thousands of delicate white paper doves. This moving artwork explores connection and belonging, with opportunities for everyone to get involved in creating and displaying their own doves across the city.

Michael Pendry: Les Colombes

Klub Girko: Human Time – Tree Time Pic: Jona Hanischmacher

Transe Express: DNA Vertical Odyssey:

(Friday 25 & Saturday July, 9.45pm)

Prepare to crane your necks in amazement beside The Point! Transe Express will present a truly breathtaking spectacle. A 40-metre-high sculpture suspended in the night sky becomes the stage for a mesmerising vertical choreography of climbing, aerial dance and circus artistry, all accompanied by electrifying live music.

Luke Jerram: Mars

(open daily throughout the Festival)

Journey to the red planet without leaving Milton Keynes! Luke Jerram’s stunning planetary sculpture, featuring real NASA imagery and a captivating soundscape, will be on display throughout the Festival for everyone to enjoy.

Architects of Air: Terceradix

(Thursday 24-Sunday 27 July)

Step into a world of wonder in Campbell Park! Architects of Air’s monumental walkin sculpture is a beautiful and intriguing maze of light and colour, promising a truly unique and immersive experience for Festivalgoers of all ages.

The Stables Spiegeltent: (daily throughout the Festival)

Located in Campbell Park, this iconic venue will once again be at the heart of the Festival’s nightlife, hosting a dazzling array of comedy stars including Lou Sanders and La Voix, fabulous music from the likes of The Demon Barbers, The Selecter and Roachford, family fun with Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall and the Rubbish Shakespeare Company, and a whole lot more!

Klub Girko: Human Time - Tree Time (Friday 18-Sunday 20 July)

Lose yourself in the enchanting woodlands copse in Campbell Park as Klub Girko present an awe-inspiring acrobatic performance. Two artists will gracefully interact with the trees, their movements highlighting the delicate and vital connection between us and nature, and the urgent need to care for our planet.

Kamchàtka: Fugit

(Thursday 24-Saturday 26 July)

Get ready for an immersive daytime adventure through the streets of Wolverton with the return of the acclaimed Kamchàtka. Their UK premiere of Fugit invites you to step outside your comfort zone and place your trust in strangers, a poignant tribute to those who bravely embrace the unknown.

YUCK Circus

(Friday 18-Saturday 19 July)

Girl power takes centre stage in The Stables Spiegeltent! This all-female Australian troupe will deliver a riotous show packed with incredible acrobatics, hilarious comedy, and captivating dance, championing the female voice with power and style.

Pagrav Dance: One Sky

(Saturday 19 July)

Feel the joy and energy of India’s vibrant kite festivals as Milton Keynes’ very own Pagrav Dance Company brings their spectacular UK premiere to the MK Rose in Campbell Park.

Utopia in Verse

(Thursday 24 July)

Commissioned by the Festival and centre:mk, Milton Keynes-based poet Maureen Onwunali will unveil a brand-new work at this dynamic poetry jam. The event will feature talented guest artists and live musicians, exploring themes of hope and collective liberation.

Family Focus

Both weekends of the Festival will be packed with free, pop-up events across the city for all the family to enjoy. Look out for NoFit State Circus’s Bamboo, a high energy show using only human bodies and bamboo. Osadía’s hair art performance Whose Hair Dares will invite audience members to sit in barbers’ chairs and

be transformed into living sculptures with original and provocative hair and make-up.

This is just a tantalising glimpse of what awaits you at this year’s Festival – there’s much more to come! The full programme will be announced in early June. So get ready to immerse yourself in 10 days of extraordinary arts and culture that will inspire, transform and connect our city like never before!

Festival information

You can find details of all events and sign up for updates on the Festival website at ifmiltonkeynes.org

To book tickets call the Festival box office on 01908 280800 or book online at ifmiltonkeynes.org

Transe Express DNA Vertical Odyssey

Nadine Coyle to Headline MK Pride Festival 2025 and you’re intived!

Ready for some pop magic in the heart of Milton Keynes? Well, brace yourself — because Nadine Coyle, yes the Nadine from Girls Aloud (aka the soundtrack to your noughties), is headlining MK Pride Festival 2025! And trust us, it’s going to be epic..

This year’s free festival (yep, you read that right — completely free) hits Campbell Park on Saturday 13th September, transforming the city’s green heart into a joyful explosion of colour, love, and high-octane pop bangers. Think pride, pop, and proper good vibes — all rolled into one unforgettable day.

A Stage Set for a Pop Queen

With her powerhouse vocals and signature sass, Nadine will be lighting up the Main Stage with a glittering setlist packed full of Girls Aloud classics — Sound of the Underground, Love Machine, Something Kinda Ooooh (go on, hum it, we know you want to). Add in her solo hit Go to Work and you’ve got yourself a pride set with serious sparkle.

“Nadine’s incredible energy and iconic catalogue make her the perfect choice for what’s set to be our biggest and boldest festival yet,” says Festival Director Keith Emmett III. “We’re thrilled to welcome such a well-loved artist and proud LGBTQ+ ally to MK Pride.”

Community, Celebration, and One Heck of a Party

MK Pride isn’t just a festival — it’s a statement. A proud, powerful, glitter-filled celebration of love, equality and community spirit, open to everyone. Whether you’re dancing your heart out at the main stage, soaking in the community vibes, or just there for the atmosphere (and maybe a cheeky glitter tattoo), there’s something for you.

And here’s the kicker — MK Pulse Magazine is the official media partner (we’ll be the ones grinning ear to ear in the front row, notepad in one hand, rainbow flag in the other). Keep an eye on our socials and the festival’s feeds @mkpridefestival for all the latest updates, surprises and announcements.

Want to Be Part of It?

There’s still time to get involved behind the scenes. If your business or organisation wants

to fly the flag for inclusion and community, a few sponsorship slots are still up for grabs. Just drop the team a line at info@mkpridefestival.com and let them know you’re in.

So, mark your calendars, polish your dancing shoes, and get ready for a celebration like no other. We’ll see you in the park.

As an

Nestled

Our hospital’s healthy outlook

Everyone wants to have access to it, and yet for the most part, noone wants to have to visit. But we will all make use of its services and expertise during our lifetime. With the new city’s rapidly expanding population, Milton Keynes University Hospital is serving more and more people. Pulse’s Sammy Jones looked at its history, and spoke with chief executive Joe Harrison CBE about its future.

In the early days of the new town, residents had to make the journey to Northampton or Stoke Mandeville for their treatment needs.

In 1979, a four-ward community hospital opened, but it didn’t take long to realise that demand far exceeded what was available.

‘Milton Keynes is dying for a hospital’ was the campaign leading slogan in the late 70s and early 80s, and the call was answered in 1984, when the foundation of the hospital we know today opened its doors to the first patients.

Back then, the hospital had just less than 300 beds to serve a population of 115,000.

The build and equipment, offering the very latest in technology, had cost £20million.

Less than a decade later, Phase 2 of the hospital launched, with a further six 28-bed wards, four more operating theatres, a new MRI unit and a refurbished Accident and Emergency Department among the welcome additions.

In 2005, the Macmillan Unit opened with support from the national charity, and a substantial

donation from Marshall Amplification founder, Jim Marshall. The locally-based businessman with the international reputation contributed £750,000 to Macmillan Cancer Relief, which enabled the opening of the Macmillan unit.

The £12million treatment centre had four theatres and 60 beds.

Two years later the hospital received NHS Foundation Trust status.

The former main entrance to the building was replaced by a new facility near to the Outpatients area during the 2010s, and under the direction of Joe Harrison CBE (left), the hospital has continued to expand on its early promises.

Joe has been at the heart of the health hub since his arrival in 2013.

“It does not feel like 12 years ago!” he told Pulse, “A lot has changed, in particular the number of patients we are treating every day alongside the number of clinicians that we employ here.

The hospital might change, but the same caring attitude remains

At the cutting edge – a surgery robot in use at MKUH

“In addition, the size of the hospital estate and the range of healthcare services we offer has also significantly grown. During this time we also became a University Teaching Hospital, training the next generation of NHS professionals.”

Today those students, and staff, have state-of-the-art simulation suites where they can get to grips with ‘real life’ situations, practicing skills and learning; a lecture theatre and seminar rooms make education all the easier.

In 2020 the hospital opened its new Cancer Centre, and all cancer services were able to be provided in one building.

And then the pandemic hit. Covid thrust healthcare systems the world-over into uncharted territory. As the leader of the hospital, Joe was a familiar spokesman during those dark days.

Away from the spotlight, Joe was personally affected, too.

“Like others, I felt a combination of sadness for those affected, who included my mum who died of Covid, and pride in the way the public and our team here at MKUH responded,” he remembered, “We witnessed masses of innovation from NHS staff who had to respond to unprecedented circumstances, and that still influences us today.

“The same positive, can-do attitude helps us respond to current challenges,” he said.

Aside from your role at MKUH, you are a board member, chair and vice chair of various health-sector companies. How do you juggle so much comfortably?

“I have a lot of support from a brilliant team!” he says, with no hesitation, “My other work is an opportunity to look outside MKUH and access people or ideas to feed into our local plans. For instance, leading on the development of the NHS App puts me at the centre of conversations about how digital innovation can improve patient experience. I am thrilled that many people in MK have embraced the App and would encourage everyone to give it a go. There is support available – search nhs.uk/nhs-app.”

In 2024, the hospital toasted its 40th anniversary – four decades spent at the very heart of the community, extending a supporting arm around us all in our times of need.

People are rightly fiercely passionate about the NHS. We all feel a sense of ownership,

don’t we? But we also love to moan about waiting times as much as we like to defend it as an establishment. How does it feel to head up something that is much-loved and yet often complained about?

“Our health is our most precious asset so, understandably, patients feel strongly about getting the care that they need,” Joe reasons, “If the NHS does not meet expectations then people are, rightly, going to let us know.

“We actively invite patient feedback because we care, and we use it to shape services. The majority of patients I speak with understand that we’re facing local population growth and financial pressures which make it harder to reduce waiting times.

“I am pleased to say that we have brought down our longest waiting times significantly in the past year, and we will do our utmost to keep going in this direction.”

Today, two diagnostics centres operate from different locations in Central Milton Keynes to further improve the patient experience.

In January, Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care confirmed that plans for a new hospital building would go ahead for Milton Keynes.

Construction could start this year, with building work set to continue through to 2030.

It is another significant milestone in the history of the hospital story.

And as Joe looks to the future, what does he see?

“The hospital will expand on our current site and also further support the delivery of health and care in our community. Technology will continue to transform how we work, from how our doctors and nurses communicate with our patients through to the clinical interventions that will become available to our patients.

“In the coming years, technology and AI-powered services will feature even more prominently and be responsible for further improvements to patient care.

“What I hope will never change is the reason why people come to work in our hospital - to provide high quality care to our patients.”

Finally, given such a high-profile and, no doubt, stressful position, how does Joe look after his own health?

“A great question! Being a dad motivates me to look after my health,” he says “I aim for a balanced diet, with enough exercise and time to relax when I can.

“Working in a hospital actually helps - my step count is pretty good because I walk around a lot, and our catering team always has something nutritious to eat for lunch.

“I also take full advantage of the NHS screening on offer,” he adds, inadvertently giving us all a nudge to take up those health check invitations that we might be ignoring. The time is now.

An artist impression of the new hospital – given the green light by the Government earlier this year Out with the old –

How people enter the hospital today

MON 2nd JUN ‘25

Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre

£40 p/p, includes entrance fee.

Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre offers 60 acres of rare and beautiful trees, shrubs, and bamboos, alongside a café for breakfast or lunch and a gift shop for plant lovers and garden enthusiasts.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.45am, MK K4 bus stop at the Point 9.05am, Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 9.25am Batsford at 3pm

FRI 6th JUN ‘25

Wells-next-the-Sea

£30 per adult, £20 per child 0-16 yrs, £95 family saver, based on two adults and two children 0-16 yrs. Situated in the heart of the North Norfolk coast – a designated area of outstanding natural beauty with over 40 miles of glorious beaches, unspoiled landscapes, and protected wildlife habitats.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 7.30am, MK K4 bus stop at the Point 7.50am, Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.10am Wells-next-the-Sea at 5.30pm

SAT 7th JUN ‘25 Chapel Down Winery - Vineyard Tour with Lunch

£40 p/p, includes vinyard tour and lunch *Please make us aware of any dietary requirements at time of booking* Restaurant is accessed by 30 stairs. Vineyard tour will last up to 2 hours and includes tasting up to 5 different wines.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8am, MK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.20am, Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.40am Tenterden at 5pm

SUN 8th JUN ‘25 Clacton On Sea

£30 per adult, £20 per child 0-16 yrs, £95 family saver, based on two adults and two children 0-16 yrs.

Visit the largest town on the Essex sunshine coast boasting a pleasure pier, arcades and theatres.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 7.30am, MK K4 bus stop at the Point 7.50am, Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.10am Clacton at 5.30pm

TUE 10th JUN ‘25 Bognor Regis

£30 per adult, £20 per child 0-16 yrs, £95 family saver, based on two adults and two children 0-16 yrs. Visit this wonderful seaside town and stroll along one of the oldest piers in the UK.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 7.30am, MK K4 bus stop at the Point 7.50am, Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.10am Bognor Regis at 5pm

THUR 12th JUN ‘25 Hastings

£30 per adult, £20 per child 0-16 yrs, £95 family saver, based on 2 adults and 2 children 0-16 yrs. Steeped in history with Norman ruins, a vibrant old town, shingle beach, and award-winning pier.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 7.30am, MK K4 bus stop at the Point 7.50am, Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.10am Hastings at 4.30pm

daytrips@billscoachhire.co.uk | www.billscoachhire.co.uk

Stacey Bushes, 1 Hollin Lane, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK12 6HT

Keeping your cool:

Why your car’s air conditioning deserves more attention

It’s easy to forget about your car’s air conditioning system during the cooler months. Tucked away under layers and scarves, few of us give it a second thought until the first warm day arrives, only to find it’s not blowing quite as cool and fresh as we’d like. But, like many things in life, a little regular care goes a long way, and your vehicle’s air conditioning system is no exception.

Although most modern cars come equipped with air conditioning as standard, it remains one of the most overlooked systems when it comes to routine maintenance. Left idle for months on end, the system can quietly deteriorate, leading to reduced cooling performance, weakened components, and even refrigerant leaks. Unfortunately, those problems tend to make themselves known just when you need the system most – on the hottest day of the year or halfway through a long summer journey.

Why regular use matters

You might be surprised to learn that even in winter, it’s good practice to switch on your air conditioning every now and again.

Regular use keeps the system’s internal components lubricated and helps prevent seals from drying out, reducing the risk of leaks and mechanical issues. Plus, air conditioning is handy for quickly clearing condensation from the windscreen on cold, damp mornings – something every driver in the UK can appreciate.

Environmental considerations

It’s also worth remembering the environmental impact of air conditioning systems, especially in older vehicles.

Many still use fluorinated gases (F-gases), potent greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change if released into the atmosphere. These gases can leak during poorly managed servicing or at the end of a vehicle’s life, which is why the safe handling and disposal of refrigerants has become such an important issue. Governments and manufacturers are actively working to phase out F-gases, promoting more sustainable alternatives. However, with many older vehicles still on the road, responsible servicing remains crucial. That’s where skilled, qualified technicians play an essential

role, ensuring systems are maintained correctly and harmful emissions are kept to a minimum.

How professional care makes a difference

While there are simple things you can do to help keep your system running smoothly – such as using it regularly and replacing cabin filters when needed – a professional service is key to long-term performance and efficiency.

Our technicians at Soul Garages are fully trained and equipped with the specialist tools required to work on even the most advanced modern air conditioning systems, including those found in hybrid and electric vehicles. We also offer a free air conditioning performance test.

From there, services range from a simple antibacterial clean – designed to purge the system of unpleasant odours that build up over time – to a full system service. This ensures that not only is your vehicle’s air conditioning running efficiently, but also that the air quality inside your car is fresher and healthier for everyone on board.

A valuable asset all year round

As we head into the warmer months, many of us will soon be reaching for that familiar blast of cool air on our travels. But air conditioning isn’t just a summer luxury, it plays an important role all year round, helping maintain comfort, improve visibility, and even support better air quality inside your vehicle. By giving your air conditioning system a little care and attention now, you can avoid those inconvenient summer breakdowns and enjoy every journey in comfort –wherever the road takes you.

Celebrations for a marvellous milestone

Olney's Church of St Peter & St Paul is celebrating a very special birthday in 2025 – its 700 year anniversary. Sammy Jones learned more about its history with the help of churchwarden Malcolm Jones.

Long before the first ever pancake was flipped in the town or the Roundheads and Cavaliers were at war, residents had been worshipping at the church which is located on the southern approach to the historic town, although Olney’s original church is believed to have been located at the northern end.

The style of St Peter & St Paul provides the clues necessary to date the building, and the belief is that it was constructed between 1325 and 1350, when the Gothic style was very much in favour.

“There are no records of cost or architect but the Manor at the time was owned by Ralph, Lord Basset of Drayton, who was a great builder of churches, so it was almost certainly instigated by him. The spire is typical of Northamptonshire churches and the interior is very similar to Emberton Church, so it is thought they had the same builders. There was once a separate ‘Chantry Chapel’ to pray for the soul of Ralph Basset after his death in 1390, which strengthens this connection,” says Malcolm.

The church stands on the bank of the River Ouse, but apparently that wasn’t always the plan.

Local legend says the church was originally planned to be closer to the main road, which is where the foundation stones were laid.

“One night they mysteriously moved to the next field, where the church is now,” Malcolm (inset, left) told Pulse History, “They were moved back, but then on another night it happened again, so this was taken as a sign from God that the church should be built in its current location.”

Before they were linked in the 13th century, Olney comprised two settlements – and as mentioned earlier, an 11th century Saxon church was believed to have been in use.

“The deeds of the old Castle Pub, now Maya restaurant, mention the old churchyard walls as their boundary. One story tells of a beam uncovered in the church in 1800 which was inscribed ‘This beam laid up by Ben Marriott and Michael Hinde churchwardens July 17, 1718, and 700 years from its first building,” Malcolm said. In the 13th century, while not the bustling town it is today, Olney would still have been a busy place, and it was affluent –records state that it had 56 burgesses, or prosperous middle class landowners.

Thanks to its impressive spire, the church is announced before your arrival in the town – it stands 185ft tall.

“The sides are slightly converse to give the impression of being flat, or entasis,” Malcolm explained, “Without this technique, the spire sides would appear to bow inwards. Another design feature is that the chancel inclines slightly to the north, all churches

are built on an east/west axis. This is said to symbolise Christ’s head on the cross leaning to one side.”

Religious or otherwise, few buildings remain unchanged through time, and the Church of St Peter & St Paul is no exception. The 19th century renovation of the church was mainly due to the architect Sir Gilbert Scott. Gawcott born, Scott’s career began as a designer of workhouses before he moved into the design and renovation of churches and cathedrals.

Scott was also the architect of the Midland Grand Hotel, now known as London’s St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.

“He tended to ‘scrape’ churches to get back to the medieval stonework, so much earlier wooden decoration has been lost,” Malcolm explained, “The Nave roof has also been lowered so the church is very unusual in that the chancel roof is higher than the nave.”

During medieval times the church had a wooden rood screen which separated the chancel and the nave. This feature was destroyed during the reformation, although some wood from it was still retained in the early 19th century.

But there is more mystery associated with the rood...

Pic: Derek Martin

“One fascinating mystery is the painting of ‘Elijah and the Ravens’ which is said to have adorned the rood screen in medieval times. After the reformation and its disappearance from Olney, a painting of the same subject appeared in the records of Talley Abbey in South Wales, and it is thought that this is the same painting, subsequently restored, which is now in St David’s Cathedral in Pembrokeshire. Both Talley Abbey and the church in Olney had links to the Earls of Warwick, which may account for the painting’s preservation.”

One of our most favourite things to do is to visit ancient cemeteries, and the one in Olney has lots of historic examples of headstones and memorials, with the oldest dating back to around 1700, and the most famous of all the names resting there is John Newton – the man responsible for penning Amazing Grace. Lesser known is in the input by Henry Gauntlett into one of our most well-known Christmas carols. Gauntlett was the church organist at just nine years old – when his father was minister.

In later life, Henry became one of this country’s foremost church musicians.

A year after Cecil Frances Alexander penned the poem Once In Royal David’s City – in her hymn book Hymns for Little Children – Henry discovered the words and set them to music.

Many of you will have seen the installations – by artist Wayne Warren – which are colouring up the interior and exterior of the church, but there are also postcards encouraging you to get creative as part of the installation event, and limited edition art works are available to purchase.

How to join in with the 700 year anniversary celebrations

The church is marking its milestone birthday with a week of events planned between June 28 and July 6. Highlights include:

Peal of Bells

Saturday, June 28, 2pm

The celebrations will begin with a peal of 5,700 ‘Stedman Caters’ which will be quite the event. Beginning at 2pm, the full peal of bells will take just under four hours in all!

Church Ale

Saturday, June 28, 7pm-10pm

A 700th anniversary ale is being brewed and the church will welcome you for food, a roast and a chance to sup the special ale – you can buy bottles and souvenir glasses. Numbers will be limited.

Olney Cherry Fair

Sunday, June 29, Midday

Events, activities, food and stalls – a real ‘for all the family’ event

Flower Festival

Sunday, June 29 – Sunday, July 6

Petal power available to view inside the church during daylight hours – the floral displays will be based on the anniversary.

History Day

Saturday, July 5

Olney Archaeological Society will present a talk by Professor Stephen Upex on the church in the Olney landscape, between 10.30am and 11.30am.

A chance to investigate Liz Knight’s papers on the history of the building, which her family have gifted to the church, will follow at 2pm.

700th Anniversary Concert

Saturday, July 5

The Sheppard Singers present a range of sacred and secular music from the last 700 years.

Milton Keynes Museum is one of the best interactive museums, a perfect outing for all ages, staffed by friendly volunteers, and highly recommended by visitors on TripAdvisor. This feature was written by Milton Keynes Museum. Find out more about forthcoming events and see our opening times at: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Pic: Derek Martin

Beer and buns, ‘flagging up’ a significant anniversary, charity endeavours and a step back in time for man and canine. Here are your Pulse Pics...

Downhead Park residents commemorated VE Day 80 by having a Union Jack cut into the gloriously green grass of its park. The striking image is best captured from the air, and aerial photographer Chris Read did the honours with this brilliant shot.

See more on Instagram – search @droneovermk

The annual Bradwell Village Beer and Bun Race – a Good Friday tradition since the 1960s – continued in fine style this year, with many villagers and visitors lining-up to partake. Those who returned with the most beer still in the pint glass after an eight minute route around the village were crowned winners.

And no, it’s not as easy as it sounds!

Milton Keynes Museum’s history weekend was an opportunity for visitors to speak with ancestors from throughout the ages; from the Romans to the Suffragettes. The reenactors did a fabulous job, entertaining one and all, including attending pooches who thought it was tail-waggingly brilliant!

If you are going to do a pub crawl, you want to make it an event, and The Great British Pub Crawl is precisely that! This is ‘one couple’s quest to visit all of the UKs amazing pubs’, and having already popped into 5819 watering holes, they added another 13 to their tally with a visit to Newport Pagnell. Here they are at The Dolphin pub

Chris Curtis MP made great strides for charity – completing the London Marathon in four hours and 16 minutes. His sterling efforts have swelled the coffers for Willen Hospice, to the tune of £3,700. Nice footwork, Chris!

this

for

fundraising

Learn more at mssociety.org.uk/miltonkeynes

The MS Society Milton Keynes were at centre:mk earlier

month

their regular

session. Jo Newall, pictured, was among those rattling tins.

Pic: Sammy Jones

Pic: Sammy Jones

Pics: Sammy Jones

Pic: The Great British Pub Crawl

Pic:

Chris Read Aerial Photography

YOUR MOO

Eyes That Never Blink; Why AI-Powered CCTV Is the Future of Protection

In today’s increasingly complex security landscape, safeguarding people, property, and peace of mind is no longer optional — it’s essential. Leading this transformation is a powerful advancement in surveillance: monitored CCTV enhanced by artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Traditional CCTV has long served as a basic deterrent, but its limitations are clear — it records events but does little to prevent them. AI-powered, remotely monitored CCTV changes that. These intelligent systems don’t merely observe; they analyse, identify, and respond — in real time.

With cutting-edge algorithms, AI surveillance can differentiate between harmless movement — a cat crossing the driveway — and genuine threats, such as an intruder scaling a fence. These systems learn continuously, reducing false alarms and allowing monitoring professionals to intervene only when necessary. This shift not only boosts accuracy but also speeds up response times dramatically.

When integrated with a professional Alarm Receiving Centre

(ARC), AI CCTV becomes a formidable line of defence. Operators can issue live audio warnings, alert emergency services, or notify keyholders within seconds. In critical moments, those seconds matter.

Beyond the technology itself, the benefits are measurable. Businesses can prevent theft, reduce damage, avoid costly insurance claims, and protect their reputation. Homeowners enjoy peace of mind knowing their property is watched over day and night. Local authorities gain a robust tool to enhance public safety and reduce antisocial behaviour.

Security today is no longer about reviewing footage after a break-in. It’s about stopping the incident before it happens. With AI-powered monitored CCTV, we’re not just watching — we’re actively defending. Because in a world of increasing risks, having eyes that never blink isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

Contact Lee: leedorman@tindallsecurity.co.uk

Next issue: Security is not just a product; it’s a strategy

Lee Dorman: Security Expert CEO Tindall Security

Step into the studio: Bucks Art Weeks is back this June

Ever wondered what magic looks like up close? Not the pull-arabbit-out-of-a-hat kind—but the kind where a blank canvas becomes a wild landscape, or a lump of clay transforms into something you want on your mantelpiece. That kind of magic is exactly what you’ll find at Bucks Art Weeks, returning this June for a two-week creative takeover across the county.

From 7th to 22nd June, Buckinghamshire will be buzzing with paint-splattered studios, pottery wheels in motion, and the welcoming chatter of artists throwing open their doors (and occasionally, their conservatories, barns, and garden sheds too). This is your backstage pass to creativity—a rare chance to see where the magic happens and meet the makers behind it all.

Not your average gallery hop

What sets Bucks Art Weeks apart? Well, it’s not just the sheer scale (we’re talking hundreds of artists dotted from Olney to Burnham) or the fact that it’s completely free. It’s the heart. The whole thing is organised by Visual Images Group—a dedicated bunch of volunteers who are artists themselves and passionate about celebrating the county’s talent. And this year, they’re throwing an extra-big party because it’s their 40th anniversary (that’s four whole decades of making art more accessible, friendly, and frankly, fun).

You’ll find painters, photographers, ceramicists, textile artists, sculptors—even people doing things you didn’t realise were art until you saw them doing it. Some offer demos, others host workshops, and many serve tea and biscuits while you browse. It’s a bit like visiting old friends—if your friends also happened to be brilliantly talented and surrounded by stunning artwork.

A day out with soul

Whether you’re an art lover, curious wanderer, or a parent looking for something wholesome to do with the kids, this is the sort of day out that doesn’t just fill your afternoon—it fills your cup. There’s a community spirit that runs through every venue (yes, even the ones tucked behind bustling high streets) and a real sense of discovery. You might come away with a one-of-a-kind piece, a head full of ideas—or just the warm glow of having chatted with someone who’s turned their passion into a way of life.

Planning your visit is a breeze. Head to www.bucksartweeks.org.uk where

you’ll find an interactive map, artist profiles, and themed trails to help plot your perfect route. Maybe you’re after inspiration. Maybe you fancy dipping a toe into collecting. Or maybe you’re just in it for the cakes and good company (no judgment here).

Mark the dates, meet the makers

Art is popping up in every corner of Buckinghamshire this June—and it’s calling your name. So pull out your diary, text your mates, and plan a day or two (or ten) of colour, creativity, and connection. Because this isn’t just an event. It’s a celebration. And you’re invited.

Fresh for summer

Creams, fluids, sprays, serums and more. This month’s beauty choices will make it easier to FACE your day...

No7 is the UKs leading skincare brand, and it has just added to its portfolio with the launch of its Future Renew Night Serum

Clinically proven to reverse visible signs of skin damage, this serum combines the brand’s worldfirst super peptide blend with the active Lindera Strychnifolia. It might sound complicated, but you can leave that stuff to the scientists, and simply make great use of their hard work!

No7’s most scientifically advanced night-time formulation to date is ready to be let loose on your skin during the dark hours.

Get it: £49.95 (50ml) £39.95 (25ml)

RRP: Boots stores in centre:mk in Milton Keynes

dark circles and puffiness that blight so many of us.

The fluid ‘energises, smoothes, revitalises and illuminates the eye in a single stroke,’ and Sisley is a master when it comes to rejuvenation.

Its Black Rose Skin Infusion Cream is a daily delight to restore the skin’s bounce and promote luminosity. Nature’s nice contributors here include Hibiscus flower extract, Alpine Rose extract and Shea and Camelina Oils. People leave their skincare in Sisley’s hands because the brand is tried, tested and trusted. Give your skin the TLC it deserves with some Sisley magic.

Get it: £182 (Infusion Cream), £128 (Contour Fluid)

RRP: Sisley-paris.com or H Beauty in centre:mk

The market leading loveliness delivered by Sol de Janiero has now bottled the spirit of summer with three new Mistica Perfume Mists –these are the obsession you don’t yet know you need, promises SdJ! Feel like sunshine in a bottle? Reach for Flor Mistica, want to cool off with a splash of summer? Then Agua Mistica is the refresher, or invite Danca Mistica into your life. It’s a twilight for the senses. A word of warning though, these fragrant fancies are strictly limited edition, and won’t last for long.

Get it: Stockists nationwide or at cultbeauty.co.uk

RRP: £24

RMS Beauty ReDimension Hydra Powder Blush unites skin-loving ingredients with powerful pigments in a gel to powder complexion enhancer. Reach for the Hydra Powder Blush for a glow with just a hint of colour. Choose from shades including Hanky Panky, Crystal Slipper and Maiden’s Blush.

Get it: cultbeauty.co.uk

RRP: £35 (Refill £28)

Image’s new skincare collection, AGELESS+ Retinol is out to deliver ‘smoother, more radiant skin with every use,’ and its AGELESS+ retinol overnight masque is an ultra-hydrating masquemoisturiser to strengthen your skin barrier and boost internal hydration. Its proprietary XOSM™ Technology will work hard while you are in the land of nod, leading to plumped and smoother skin. One of those rare occasions when you snooze, but definitely won’t lose!

AGELESS+ Retinol pure liquid retinol 0.3% is a serum bringing together the best in technology and natural botanicals to help show lines and wrinkles the exit.

Perfect for those with combination or oily skin, this daily use serum won’t irritate. Image has harnessed vitamins and minerals from olive squalane, sea buckthorn, moringa, grape seed, avocado, argan and sunflower to aid a soft, supple complexion.

Get it:

imageskincare.co.uk

RRP: £116

Ageless+ Retinol, £118 AGELESS+ retinol pure liquid retinol 0.3%

WELCOMING NEWRESIDENTS

The Applewood is a beautiful new care home which offers residential and dementia care for older people. It is a place where kindness is more than a word. It is a belief that caring for you means caring about you through actions and choices that are guided by a heartfelt desire to support you to live better each moment of every day.

Please get in touch to find out more about life at The Applewood and how we can help you to live your best life.

The Power of 3 runs through the core of OCM as we have three professional disciplines brought together allowing us to deliver such a powerful client focused proposition.

As an Independent Chartered Financial Planning Firm, a Discretionary Asset Manager and Tax planning specialist, we utilise the power of 3, to ensure we deliver a seamless and first class, cost and time efficient service to clients. This is because at OCM we truly believe Our Clients Matter.

CHARTERED Financial Planners

& Accounting

Your opinion matters.

MK Pulse and NN Pulse magazines are here to bring you the best in local news, events, and stories –and we’d love your feedback to make them even better.

Tell us how you read, watch, and interact with media, and how we can make your favourite local magazine even better.

Scan the QR code below to complete a quick questionnaire – it only takes a few minutes! Your feedback will help us continue to deliver what matters most to you.

Together, let’s make MK Pulse and NN Pulse the heartbeat of your community.

email: gdadscollectable@aol.com www.gdadscollectables.com

Unit 6B, Pineham Farm, Haversham, Milton Keynes, MK19 7DP

Smoky prawn & avocado tacos

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 5 minutes

Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS

150g red cabbage, sliced as finely as possible

1 shallot, sliced as finely as possible

½ lime, juice, plus extra wedges to serve

1 tsp honey

2 tsp Waitrose Cooks’ Ingredients chipotle paste

4 tbsp soured cream

8 Santa Maria mini coconut tortillas

220g pack cooked Waitrose Extra Large King Prawns

1 tbsp vegetable oil

¼ tsp hot smoked paprika

1 avocado, thinly sliced

Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose. Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

METHOD

1. Toss the cabbage and shallot in a bowl with the lime juice, honey and a good pinch of salt, then set aside. Mix the chipotle paste and soured cream in a separate bowl and set aside.

2. Heat a large frying pan over a high heat. Warm the tortillas for 30 seconds on each side, then wrap in foil to keep warm. Leave the pan on the heat.

3. Pat the prawns dry on kitchen paper, then toss with the oil, paprika and a pinch of salt. Transfer to the pan and fry for a minute on each side, until just coloured. Pile into the warm tortillas with the cabbage and shallot, avocado and chilli soured cream. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over the tacos.

COOK’S TIP

You can add all sorts of extra vegetables to these tacos: try roasted sweet potato, shredded iceberg lettuce or slices of red pepper and cucumber.

DIGGING DEEP

You say tomato, I say tomahto...

let’s just get

them

in

the ground!

Pulse gardening expert Ralph Westmoreland talks us through his current green-fingered activities, to inspire you to get busy in your own outdoor space...

Some tomato plants at school are growing outside on raised beds, tied to canes 150cms tall, while others are in large pots. Three plants are in a tomato growing bag against the south facing wall of the summerhouse.

A second ’crop’ of these most popular of veggies (well, let’s remember a tomato is a fruit!), placed in individual pots, are hardened off for a few days, before being planted into deeper holes and firmed in to leave the plant in a dip, so that any water runs down to the roots.

Yellow fruited varieties should be considered, and can be a healthy alternative, but they do not contain the powerful antioxidant lycopene, found in the red varieties which is associated with various health benefits.

There are now a few varieties, including Moonglow, Hawaiian Pineapple and Orange Roma. Even the names sound yummy!

We are going to carefully dig up a few of our early potato plants to see if the tubers are above egg-sized and worth lifting. They have the best flavour.

Plant out leek seedlings on well-prepared ground, with organic matter and a dressing of a general fertilizer. Trim off any roots to about 5cm / 2” and water in. Adjacent onions should be weeded carefully, as they are shallow rooted – use an onion hoe!

of them in one of the surprise cold nights in April. They were potted into 5” pots and are growing well.

They have an interesting feature for teaching, with both male and female flowers on the same plant. The male flowers must be picked off and are easy to spot, lacking the obvious fruit swelling behind the flower which is noticeable on the female flowers.

Carmen, Diva and Mini Munch are examples of all-female varieties.

Now is the time, if you have the space, to sow seeds which like warm soil, either in drills in the soil or in containers to plant out soon. Draw out drills with the rake or hoe and plant seeds singly or in twos or threes, later removing the weakest seedlings.

I am hoping to have a sense of success with cucumbers this season, despite losing one

Suitable seeds include kale and white cabbage, such as January King, Marabel and Savoy, runner beans ‘White Lady’, climbing French bean ‘Eva’, courgette Tuscany, and winter squash Honey Bear. Seeds of the biennials can be planted later in the month; Wallflowers, Forget-me-nots, Foxgloves (left) and Sweet Williams will grow well after being pricked out and can be transplanted in the autumn into their spring-flowering positions in borders and beds.

Hanging basket compost only feeds plants for a few weeks, so the basket will need feeding when you water weekly, making sure

it penetrates the compost and doesn’t just run off the foliage!

How is your gardening doing? My lawn is recovering from ‘No-mow May’, and the daisies, buttercups and primroses have taken enthusiastically to the new management programme!

Mowing frequently, with gradually reduced settings of the mower blades, will increase the density of the turf and improve its resistance to dry weather. The whole appearance of the garden will be improved if you trim the edges, either with a flat spade, a half-moon edging iron or long-handled edging shears. The grass roots must be stopped from encroaching into the border.

The primulas looked so beautiful in April’s sunshine, but have become bulky plants, and can now be dug up, divided and replanted along the edges of borders.

I have a long, high hedge of box and numerous topiary box balls. Last year’s fright about box blight still concerns me! A fungicidal spray did the trick, while box moth caterpillars, if suspected, can be prevented or treated by specific nematodes.

This is preferable to a general insecticide spray, which will kill all insects, (including those which, in a balanced ecosystem, are preyed on by birds, or are garden-friendly, such as ladybird larvae). Feeding the box bushes also helps it to withstand attack.

On the south side of my greenhouse is a large, deciduous Acer Flamingo tree, now in full leaf, which gives shade through the summer, negating the need to apply white shading paint to the glass to help lower the temperature.

Your greenhouse should have the door and windows open every morning to help air circulation; wet the floor, too, as it will cool the air as it evaporates.

And during these longer days, spend some time in the shade yourself, enjoying your preferred drink!

Father’s Day

Let’s be honest — dads aren’t always the easiest to shop for. But before you default to another pair of novelty socks or a panic-bought bottle of whisky, take a deep breath. We’re here to help.

Whether you’re celebrating your dad, stepdad, grandad, or anyone who’s been like a father to you, we’ve rounded up a bunch of brilliant gift ideas to make him feel seen, appreciated, and maybe even a little bit spoilt. Think keepsakes with meaning, gadgets he’ll actually use, indulgences he wouldn’t buy for himself, and accessories cool enough to make your siblings jealous.

No matter his vibe — or your budget — there’s something in here with his name on it. Ready to

Vintage Camera Tin, £8

King Of Dad Jokes Mug, £7.99 shop.tenovuscancercare.org.uk

BBQ Wooden Pepper Mill, £84.99

Athena Rustic Planter, £26.50 thewisteriatree.co.uk

Italian Summer

Style That Sips, Strolls & Soaks Up the Sun

Souk Wall Mounted Water Feature, £22 coxandcox.co.uk

Mediterranean Floral Outdoor

Filled Cushion, £22 laredoute.co.uk

It’s not just a vibe—it’s a way of life. Italian Summer is the style mood that whispers slow down, pours you a spritz, and lets you bask in the sheer joy of doing absolutely nothing (and doing it beautifully).

Inspired by the age-old art of la dolce far niente—the sweet, unhurried pleasure of simply being—this trend invites you to press pause on the hustle. Picture it: golden light spilling over terracotta rooftops, linen tablecloths dancing in the breeze, the soft clink of glasses beneath a canopy of olive branches. You’re not rushing. You’re revelling.

This season, it’s all about effortless elegance with a sun-kissed soul. Think earthy hues straight from the Tuscan hills, hand-painted ceramics that tell a story, and natural textures woven with care. Lemon motifs bring a zest of playfulness, while easy, floaty silhouettes promise to keep things cool (and chic) even when the heat is dialled up.

Whether you’re actually heading to the Med or just pretending from your back garden with a gelato in hand, this trend is your passport to laid-back luxury and old-world romance.

Just add sunshine.

Diamond 6 Piece Plastic Drinking Glass Set, £63 wayfair.co.uk

Artisan Lemon Stoneware Fruit Bowl, £15.99 giselagraham.co.uk

Tuscany Bistro, £249 dobbies.

Faux Potted Fruiting Olive Tree, £360 coxandcox.co.uk

Wallpapered Ceilings

Elevating interior design to new heights

ICeilings can help distribute pattern or colour evenly in a room, preventing designs from becoming too bottomwww.covethouse.eu

n the ever-evolving world of interior design, the ceiling (long dubbed the "fifth wall") is finally receiving the attention it deserves. A growing trend in both residential and commercial spaces is the use of wallpapered ceilings, a bold yet sophisticated design move that’s turning heads and lifting eyes upward. Once reserved for ornate mansions or theatrical spaces, wallpapered ceilings are now finding their place in modern homes, boutique hotels, and stylish offices.

Traditionally, ceilings have been treated as blank canvases, painted in flat white and forgotten. But as minimalism makes room for maximalist and eclectic styles, homeowners are looking for new ways to add character and drama to their spaces. Wallpapering the ceiling offers an unexpected visual twist, creating depth, warmth, and a more immersive environment.

Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262 www.millsandkinsella.com

Interior designers use wallpapered ceilings to completely transform the feel of a room. A floral or botanical print above a bed brings in a dreamy, romantic ambiance, while geometric or metallic designs in dining rooms or hallways add contemporary sophistication. With the resurgence of vintage aesthetics and a love for curated, personalised interiors, wallpapered ceilings are having a true design moment.

There are a few key reasons why this trend is gaining traction. A wallpapered ceiling draws the eye upward, enhancing the perception of height and space. It also serves as a statement piece, even in otherwise simple rooms.

heavy or cluttered along the walls. In bedrooms, nurseries, or reading nooks, wallpapered ceilings can make spaces feel more enclosed and serene, ideal for relaxation; and incorporating wallpaper in unconventional places (especially overhead) signals confidence and creativity in design.

From classic damask to celestial themes, the variety of wallpaper options makes it easy to tailor this trend to individual tastes. Try botanical prints for some natural serenity, art deco patterns for glamour and drama, textured or faux finish wallpapers that mimic wood, tin, or fabric to add an earthy, grounded element to a room. Muralstyle wallpapers can turn ceilings into works of art and peel-and-stick wallpapers have made the trend more accessible for renters and DIY enthusiasts, allowing for reversible and less labour-intensive installations.

Despite its beauty, wallpapering a ceiling is not without challenges. Installation can be tricky due to gravity and requires precision to avoid air bubbles or misalignments.

Professional installation is recommended for intricate patterns or large spaces. Additionally, the chosen wallpaper must be lightweight and appropriate for overhead application to prevent sagging or peeling over time. Rooms with high humidity, like bathrooms or kitchens, require moistureresistant wallpaper or protective coatings to ensure durability.

As homeowners and designers continue to seek ways to express individuality through interiors, the ceiling is poised to become an increasingly important design element. Wallpapered ceilings may soon be as common as accent walls or statement lighting, helping to craft spaces that are both striking and unique. In a world where design trends can sometimes feel overdone, the wallpapered ceiling is a fresh reminder that creativity still has room to grow (even if it’s upward).

Artist spotlight Sherree Valentine Daines: From canvas to life

As the Summer calendar fills up with its traditional sporting and social events - Royal Ascot, test cricket, Wimbledon, and more- here at The Rose Gallery, these events bring to mind one artist who captures the spirit of these occasions in a way no one else does.

‘The Face of Modern British Impressionism,’ Sherree Valentine Daines captivates art lovers worldwide with the poignant moments she captures, whether of family trips or classic British sporting and social events. Her bright and bold style brings landscapes to life, often painting outside to authentically reflect natural light and moments of beauty as they happen.

Born in Surrey in 1956, Sherree comes from an artistic family—her father a sculptor and stonemason. She studied at Epsom School of Art and quickly made her mark, she has won multiple competitions and awards. Her approach blends classical training with an impressionistic sensibility, showing us not just physical appearances but her own impressions of her subjects. Her brilliance is that Sherree paints real life as it unfolds before her, demonstrating beautifully captured glimpses. Whether

setting up her easel outdoors to paint landscapes and those who wander into them, or inviting people to sit for portraits, her pieces reflect authentic moments. Capturing both the physical scene and the emotional atmosphere, she creates truly evocative pieces.

Beyond the canvas, Sherree balances her prolific career with family life. Married to fellow artist Mark Rowbotham, she enjoys time with her grandchildren and elderly parents. We’ve witnessed this as, through the pandemic, her daughters, grandchildren, and even son-in-laws modelled for her in her stunning countryside garden. This creative atmosphere has obviously influenced her children, with her son Charlie also a painter, daughter Lettice a worldrenowned violinist, Bunty a sculptor and fine artist, and Felicity an artist and ceramicist.

Natalie Trembecki Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

byhaleys.com

Welcome to our new Mayor

Councillor James Lancaster, the new Mayor of Milton Keynes for 2025-2026 tells us a little about himself and outlines his theme of leisure, sport, and cultural services for his mayoral year.

Imoved to Milton Keynes in 2016, after finding myself at a crossroad, not knowing what I wanted in life. Before then, I had spent most of my time in North Yorkshire, visiting Milton Keynes to see my Granny and Grandad.

My Granny used to tell me, “Milton Keynes is a land of opportunity” and so I found myself taking on her advice, and she was definitely right.

Being a big sport fan, especially of rugby, I got stuck straight in with MKRUFC. This helped me to learn so much about this amazing city and opened me up to experience its incredibly rich culture, creativity and innovation.

In 2021 I married my beautiful wife Sophie, and we live in our wonderful home in Milton Keynes with our dog Buddy. I also have a Twin Brother, older Brother and Sister as well as my Mum, plus my extended family across the UK. I have been serving the residents of the Tattenhoe ward since 2019, a part

I couldn’t be prouder to live in a city that has such strong passion and love for its own diversity, culture and innovation.

of Milton Keynes I am very fond of, working with many community groups, businesses, schools and local residents. Over the next year, in my role as mayor, I will be focusing on promoting the amazing leisure, sport and cultural services that our city offers.

I couldn’t be prouder to live in a city that has such strong passion and love for its own diversity, culture and innovation. During my term as Mayor, I will be championing our great grassroots clubs we have here in the city, but also helping to inspire the next generation of superstars who are homegrown from MK!

We have some wonderful facilities and it’s so important to promote our leisure activities and surroundings that can be used for many benefits, such as towards the great celebration events we have across the year.

Within tradition, the mayor’s consort is a family member - I am that delighted my wife Sophie will be accompanying me to some events. I also will be having a Mayor’s Chaplain with Rev Mike Morris, who will be assisting with my Civic service this year.

I’m extremely pleased to be supporting Camphill MK as my Charity of the Year. Camphill provides support and a meaningful working life for adults with a wide range of learning disabilities. Their aim is to create a safe and stimulating environment, fully integrated into the surrounding community that allows individuals to develop in

accordance with their own needs. Emily’s Star and Henry Allen Trust will also be receiving support as my supplementary charities.

I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible over the next year, and thank the city of Milton Keynes for all its support.

> To support Camphill MK please visit: www.justgiving.com/page/mayor-ofmilton-keynes-camphillmk or scan the QR code below.

The new Mayor of Milton Keynes, Councillor James Lancaster, pictured with his wife and Mayoress, Sophie Lancaster, as they begin their year of civic service championing leisure, sport and cultural life across the city

Recognition for Council-run Furze House care home

Council-run children’s home praised for outstanding care and management

Following an inspection by Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills, the team at a children’s home run by Milton Keynes City Council have been commended for the care provided to children and young people.

The 18-strong team at Furze House in Furzton provide care and accommodation for up to 10 children between five and 18 years old offering residential short breaks and day care for children with learning disabilities. Stays in the home can vary from a single night to regular visits on consecutive days.

Inspectors visited the home in March and spoke with staff, children and their families, social workers and local school staff about their experiences.

In its subsequent report, Ofsted rated the children’s home as ‘Good’ with the effectiveness of leaders and managers graded ‘Outstanding’. The report highlights that children have fun, make friends and learn important social skills to help them to progress.

Staff at Furze House were also commended for their positive relationships with children and care which is tailored to each individual child and their needs. One parent commented that staff “really took the time to understand my views and my child’s needs”. Another parent described how her child used to be withdrawn but is now more outgoing thanks to the efforts of the team.

Since the last inspection, the City Council has invested in the building with extensive renovation and redecoration. Whilst more work is planned to further personalise the children’s bedrooms, Ofsted described Furze House as a ‘home from home’ for children.

Free energy upgrades for low-income households in Milton Keynes

The City Council is encouraging eligible local residents to apply for free energy-saving home improvements under a new Warmer Homes Grant scheme.

The scheme offers insulation, low carbon heating systems, solar panels, and other energy efficiency upgrades – all fully funded for those who qualify. The programme is funded by the UK Government in partnership with Milton Keynes City Council.

This scheme replaces the previous grant and now has wider eligibility, meaning more people could benefit. While only households without gas heating qualified before, the updated criteria now includes those with gas heating as well as those on a means-tested benefit and living in a home with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F or G. The grant is available to landlords as well as private tenants.

Residents who think they may be eligible are encouraged to visit the Warmer Homes website to check and applywww.warmerhomes.org.uk/eligibility

City Council makes £12,500 donation to local hospice

Milton Keynes City Council has stepped in to ensure a local hospice is receiving a £12,500 boost thanks to a national scheme which recycles metal left behind after cremations.

Willen Hospice supports the families of end-of-life patients with bereavement and emotional care as well as caring for people in the local community who have life-shortening illnesses. They work closely with GPs, hospitals, community nursing staff and social workers to ensure that local care is co-ordinated, informed and supportive at all levels.

When a bereaved family gives permission, the city council works with the ICCM (The Institute of Cemetery and Cremation Management) to raise funds from the sale of metals recovered after cremations at Crownhill Crematorium. The metals come from items such as medical implants and artificial joints.

MK City Council has nominated Willen Hospice to be the latest recipient of funding raised through the scheme. This brings the total donated to local charities through metal recycling to more than £65,000 since 2014.

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 252442

Email: peter.marland@milton-keynes.gov.uk

Facebook: @mklabour

ADDRESS: c/o Milton Keynes City Council, Civic Offices, 1 Saxon Gate East, Milton Keynes MK9 3EJ

Pete Marland Leader of Milton Keynes City Council

Milton Keynes residents may qualify for energy efficiency upgrades to their homes under the updated scheme

On your marks for Bowl action

Bludfest – What is it?

A festival curated by the self-confessed industry disruptor Yungblud.

Who's On?

Aside from Yungblud himself, this year's billing – the second time the event has been held - will include Chase Atlantic, Denzel Curry, Rachel Chinouriri, Jxdn Peach, PRC, Luvcat, Master Peace and Cliffords.

When

Saturday, June 21

Where The National Bowl

And another thing...

Speaking after his momentous headliner at the haunt last summer, Yungblud said: “What we created this year was unimaginable. You start an idea inside your head and you never believe it will come true but then it does all because of the fu**ing people and the fundamental idea that we all just wanna be together.

“This wasn’t just a show, we built a fu**ing world.

“I truly want to thank all who came this year. You make each other shine, you emit such a light - a light that I believe is the answer to all the bullsh*t that is going on in the world.

“We did it and we’re gonna do it all over again...”

And true to his word, that's exactly what he's going to do: “This year, we’re breaking boundaries, smashing genres, and turning up the energy. No pretentious nonsense, no

corporate boll**ks—just raw, unfiltered creativity, music, and community. It’s not just about the music. It’s about the connection. The feeling of being part of something electric and unforgettable.

Dive in. Be different. Be loud. Be part of something unforgettable.

This is YOUR Bludfest. OUR Bludfest. Let’s make it legendary,” is the invitation. You in?

How to get tickets bludfest.com

Forever Now – What is it?

Who’s On?

Kraftwerk, The The, Billy Idol, Death Cult, Johnny Marr, Peter Murphy, Psychedelic Furs, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Happy Mondays, The Damned, Public Image Ltd, Berlin, Theatre of Hate, She Wants Revenge, Chameleons, The Motels and UK Decay will perform, with three stages bringing the music

When Sunday, June 22

Where The National Bowl

And another thing

‘A true celebration of alternative culture, the event – a sister to the US success Cruel World - will explore the cultural phenomenon of the dark side of creativity, featuring many of the greatest pioneers of new wave, postpunk, psychedelia and alternative rock,’ promise those bringing the bash.

‘The festival will be a unique gathering for fans of post-punk music, fashion and literature, with a line-up unlike any other in the UK.’

How to get tickets forevernowfestival.co.uk

Yungblud – Pic: Tom Pallant

Johnny Marr Kraftwerk

Billy Idol – Pic: Steven Sebring

Let's talk about it

As part of the Forever Now Festival offering, intimate literary stage The Echo Chamber will feature conversations with some of post-punk, gothic rock and new wave’s influential figures.

Journalist and author John Robb will lead the chats with artists including The Damned’s drummer Rat Scabies, The Chameleons’ frontman Mark Burgess and Terri Nunn, actress and vocalist with Berlin.

Theatre of Hate’s Kirk Brandon is another of those who will be interviewed, and Kirk will reminisce about playing The National Bowl stage fifty years to the day of Forever Now.

John, who has his own musical pedigree as bassist and singer with The Membranes, won’t be the only one asking questions on the day though – Visit FB: Forever Now Festival UK to submit your own.

With John chairing the sessions, you can be sure of some clever chats and insights into the artistry, movement and culture of the scene.

John told Pulse Music more about what you can expect...

What sets Forever Now apart from the pack of festivals?

The bands that are playing! It looks like the dream fantasy lineup for the post punk generation.

It is a bill of bands that you would think would be impossible to play the same event but here they are and it’s also easy to get to and not a mud bath!

Explain a little about how The Echo Chamber will work It will be a series of conversations conducted by me, and some by Eugene, the editor of Vive Le Rock with key players in many of the bands. Each interview will be 30 minutes and give you a real flavour and idea of the person we are speaking to. A chance to take a break from the noise and excitement of the gigs, rest and recharge and get to know the people behind the noise!

Who are you most looking forward to digging deep with during the interviews?

All of them! I find doing interviews endlessly fascinating! What makes these people tick, where does the magic stuff come from.

If you could interview anyone at all on the bill, who it be, and what would the most probing question be?

Kraftwerk ‘Wie ist es, ein Roboter zu sein?’

Still Orbsessed after all these years!

The Orb have been colouring up musical minds since 1990, and in 2025, co-founder Alex Paterson is still giving fans plenty of reasons to be cheerful.

Read his biography, and it will tell you that Paterson is ‘one of music’s true originals, not averse to celebrating past triumphs but still always watching the skies and looking to the future.’

It's no lie of course. The electronic outfit has delivered 17 albums to date and still maintains the freshness that goes AWOL in so many acts in much less time.

Alex, now joined in creativity by Michael Rendell, will be bringing the tune-age to MK11 on Friday, June 6. DJ Minali will also play.

You’ll not be surprised that tickets are disappearing fast. Act quickly if you want in.

The Orb aside, and the venue is looking heavy on the tribute shows this month.

Here's What's on, when...

Decades Daytime Disco – 80s, 90s and 00s hits – June 7

Total Rex – A tribute to glam guru Marc –June 13

Pulp's & Blur 2 – Parklife and more –June 14

Absolute Bowie –Getting Ziggy with it –June 20

Friday Night Live: Summer of Love –June 20

Motley Crude –Dr Feelgood visits – June 21

The Black Charade & Fell Out Boy – June 27

The Freddie & Queen Experience –

Ay-Oh – June 28

Family Silent Disco –Ages four and up for this lunchtime session – June 29

> Visit mk11kilnfarm.com for more info and tickets

Which one band will you definitely be stage front for?

I will only get to see snatches of bands as I will be on my stage most of the day, interviewing people or talking to them. UK Decay would be great to see as they don’t play much these days…

What festival essentials do you always take?!

A toothbrush, my curiosity and ‘always carry a light bulb’.

Johannes visit proves a night to remember

Alain Johannes delivered an exceptional show of entertainment at The Craufurd Arms, with a beautiful evening that heard solo material, choice cuts from the Eleven catalogue and musical tributes to his much-missed friends and collaborators, Mark Lanegan and Soundgarden’s Chris Cornell laid bare in the live.

The man whose talents as a writer, musician and producer have been called on by artists including Queens of the Stone Age, PJ Harvey and Arctic Monkeys, was joined in play on the UK tour by Edinburgh’s Earl of Hell, whose self-titled debut album was issued in April.

> Images of Alain in last month’s issue should have been credited to Tom Bronowski. We apologise for any distress caused. www.tombronowski.com

Pic: Anna Buscaglia

John Robb – appearing at Forever Now

There are some stellar players ready to make a roar at The Craufurd Arms this month, including Nu Metal flavoured impersonators, great artists from the locality, and an icon who has been raising temperatures for decades. And Miss Boo is passing through, too. Pulse's Sammy Jones has the details...

He is the God of Hellfire –and he's headed our way

Things get up and erm, Rollin’ with Durst & Co. impersonators Stiff Bizkit (June 6).

‘Stiff Bizkit takes you to the Mathews Bridge and Beyond, back to a time when Red Caps ruled the earth!’ they promise.

Absolute sticklers for imitation, this lot are; the real Bizkit cancelled their planned appearance at The National Bowl back in 2001 and Stiff Bizkit cancelled their planned date here at the Craufurd earlier in the year. Or might that just be coincidental!?!?

Pulse Music favourites Space Pistol are back with their only MK show of the year, and it will be a masterclasss in performance.

The band cut loose their debut album, Leave With Everything last year, which delivered on so much early promise, and remains a regular companion for our ears.

For this show (June 7) our trio of boilersuited brilliance will be joined by Kraken Waker and Hammer; three bands who made each other’s acquaintances at the Bloodstock bash last summer.

If you’ve not been in the vicinity when Space Pistol have sizzled in the past, do it for this show and make up for missing out!

Snake Eyes will be at the Wolverton haunt (June 8) as they tip the halfway mark on their current UK jaunt.

The band will doubtless find time in their set to air their current single, Jar Full of Wasps, which must surely have created a bit of a buzz. Could hardly fail to, with a title like that.

Music isn’t something to do until you ‘grow out of it’ – it’s a lifelong dedication, and you need only look to The Crazy World of Arthur Brown (June 19) for verification.

Betty Boo is back, and will be Doin’ The Do (June 11) when she hits the stage to celebrate the re-issues of her 90s albums Boomania and GRRR! It's Betty Boo.

Incredibly, this visit falls as part of her first ever UK tour, preceding some tasty slots in UK capital cities later this year.

The man who raised temperatures back in 1968 with that chart-topping Fire, has always been present, following that track with the prog-festival freak show Kingdom Come before stoking the music scene with his kaleidoscopic world of wonder in his solo career.

Eighty two years young and the man whose fellow associates have included Hendrix, Zappa, The Who, Hawkwind and Alice Cooper is still smashing it out the park – as visitors to last year’s Desertfest Berlin saw directly.

This God of Hellfire has collaborated with artists as varied as The Stranglers, The Alan Parsons Project and The Prodigy, and he is rightly considered a pioneer of shock rock.

Forget those bland wannabes, and ohso-samey nasal singer-songwriters. Music should be edgy, exciting and real – and that is everything that Arthur is.

‘Psychedelic individuality, ingenuity and madness featuring great musicians, stunning visuals, and sonic adventure,’ is the promise. Don’t let Arthur have all the fun though; dress flamboyantly too if the mood takes you.

> Visit thecraufurdarms.com for tickets.

Music has never been far away though, and even when not presenting her own sounds, she worked, pen in place of mic, writing pop players for others. Betty is back, and last time we were really impressed

This pioneering hip-hop lady first came to attention back in 1990, and by the time she walked away from the spotlight, she did so with a Brit Award in hand.

Arthur Brown – imitated, but not bettered

Space Pistol – pretty in pink

Betty Boo – back to do the do...

Pic: Marvin Stang

Pic: Neil McCarty

Blues for Brain Tumours returns

Josh Cox and his band Sleepwalk have been making strides back home in the ’fampton and over here in the new city for his astoundingly good ability at the guitar.

The rise of this blues ace in the making has been a joy to listen to over the past 18 months or so, and he’s back in play this month, bringing his Blues For Brain Tumours promotion to us, and this is a cause close to his heart – the initiative was

Remember Hear’Say’s Pure and Simple?

That was Betty. She has also written for artists including Girls Aloud, Louise and Dannii Minogue. Now the Ivor Novello holder is back to do her thing, her way, for us. She’s a legend, and one who has recent elpees to pull from too; check out Boomerang, and last year's Rip Up The Rulebook The Anchoress has enchanted artists including The Cure’s

set up to raise funds for charity after Josh's dad was diagnosed with a terminal Grade 4 Glioblastoma in the summer of 2023.

“He had a sudden seizure at work and got rushed to hospital,” Josh said, “It completely changed my family’s life.”

Given the option to have a highly risky surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible and have 12-18 months to live, or forgo treatment and have less time, his father opted for the former.

A few weeks after surgery he began chemo and radiotherapy. It was tough, and keen to contribute a chink of light into an incredibly dark and difficult time, Josh teamed up with his friend, Louis Humphreys and the charity venture got off to a flying start; the first date, held at The Charles Bradlaugh in the ’fampton, raised £1000.

“The gig was made even more special because my dad was able to attend,” Josh told us.

Sadly, over the summer, his father’s health deteriorated, and he passed away in October.

“That further strengthened my desire to help fight to stop others going through

Robert Smith and piano man Elton John who called her second elpee, The Art of Losing, one of his favourite releases of the year. She has toured, and collaborated, with Manic Street Preachers and her limited Versions opus saw her take on material by The Cure, Nirvana, R.E.M, and our childhood faves, All About Eve, with the track Martha's Harbour. Join the multiinstrumentalist at play on June 12.

what my dad and my family had to go through... I wanted to run an even larger event and raise even more for The Brain Tumour Charity.”

On June 14, a year to the day since that Charles Bradlaugh date, Blues For Brain Tumours will visit The Craufurd Arms to further swell the coffers and make a difference where it matters most.

This time around the line-up will comprise MK-based neo-soul, indie blues peddlers The Chess Pieces, with Sleepwalk and their altblues rock following on.

Ramblin’ Preachers will headline with their southern rock flavoured fabulousness, as heard on the album Sins & Virtues

This will be the last Preachers show for who knows how long, with the band then stepping away from their instruments for the foreseeable future.

It’s a fantastic bill for a fantastic cause. Money is tight just now, but if you can give even a small amount, please do. Lots of little will make a lot for this

The Anchoress – Friends in high places

Bluesy and brilliant – Sleepwalk

Let’s get ready to Ramble – the Preachers will down instruments after the charity gig

Pic: Chris Griff

Pic: Ella Charleworth

Toby's choice guitar picks!

It’s my job and my hobby, and attending gigs is something I do A LOT of.

But few in 2024 left me as impressed as a date by virtuoso guitarist Toby Lee, whose Craufurd Arms show was next level, writes Pulse Music’s Sammy Jones He has stage-shared with luminaries including Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa, Slash, Billy Gibbons and Peter Frampton, starred in a West End production of School of Rock, guested stateside on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, is endorsed by Northampton’s cool Blackstar Amps brand, and has racked up more than 500 million views on social media.

Oh, and then there was that time when he joined Jimmy Page, Johnny Depp and Blur’s Graham Coxon to launch Gibson’s custom Jeff Beck Yardburst 1959 Les Paul Standard. He issued his first album of original material, House on Fire, last October. And he’s still only 20 years old!

Toby will play The Stables at Wavendon early in June, and if you call yourself a fan of the blues, you can’t afford to miss him at work. Simple as.

He told Sammy about the five most memorable artists he has performed with, and what made those dates so special...

Ronnie Baker Brooks

This is the jam that put me on the map at a very young age. In 2018 I was invited to perform at the Blues Heaven festival in Denmark. I was given the opportunity to jam with Chicago bluesman Ronnie and remember it was really late at night and I was falling asleep! Our jam was really popular online and reached one million views

overnight - to date it has been viewed 119 million times. I have a lot to thank Ronnie for!

Joe Bonamassa

Joe has always been a big inspiration of mine and he made a comment on the Ronnie Baker Brooks video saying I was a future superstar of the blues, which was very flattering to say the least.

A few years later I was playing a festival in Palm Springs and received a text from Joe asking if I would like to join him onstage at the Royal Albert Hall a few months later. It was an incredible experience. I also joined Joe on his Mediterranean cruise with my band which was a trip I’ll never forget. We were also on the same bill at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville in April.

Peter Frampton

I’ve always been a huge fan of Peter. Frampton Comes Alive is one of my favourite albums. I was invited to the Namm Show in California by Gibson Guitars and got to jam with Peter. The following year we filmed a documentary at his studio where I got the chance to play his famous Gibson Les Paul ‘Phenix’.

Lukas Nelson

The first time I met Lukas Nelson - son of Willie - was at the Garden Jam Festival in Indian Wells, California where we were on the same bill. Lukas and his band, Promise of the Real, are such incredible musicians!

I feel really privileged to call him a friend and to have been able to share the stage with him in California, London and in Boston - I’ll always be thankful for the support he has given me.

Jools Holland

I first met Jools when I was recording for a movie that was all about how different countries inspired blues music. Jools is one of the main people still playing that music to big crowds. They wanted someone from the youth element of the music to tell how it affected them, and asked me. That was the first time I met Jools.

We got on really well with our joint love of all things music and classic cars, and it was the start of a very strong friendship. Soon after, I had an email from his team asking if I would be interested in going on tour with Jools for 30 shows, which turned into 65!

I spent the whole year touring the UK and Europe with Jools and his incredible R&B Orchestra! I’m so thankful to have been a temporary part of the Jools Holland family. I rounded off the year by playing on his Hootenanny, which was an incredible experience that I was so honoured to be able to be a part of.

> Toby Lee plays The Stables on June 3. Visit stables.org for tickets.

#WhatsOnPulse

Classic Stony

Sunday, June 1, 9.30am-4pm

Informal gathering of classic, vintage and interesting vehicles in the historic market town of Stony Stratford, Free entry Top Gear: classicstony.co.uk

Singing for the Brain

Monday, June 2

Singing for the Brain® from Alzheimer’s Society uses singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity. It is held at Heron’s Lodge Guide Centre in Loughton Lodge with both a morning and afternoon session available

Contact: 01908 232612 or email miltonkeynes@alzheimers.org.uk

Toby Lee

Tuesday, June 3

The Young Blues Artist of the Year has bagged that title three times, the first triple winner of the accolade. If you see him, you’ll know why. Exceptionally gifted, this self taught prodigy has played with Buddy Guy, Billy Gibbons, Peter Frampton, Slash, and Joe Bonamassa. House on Fire: stables.org

Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra

Wednesday, June 4

Jools returns to MK Theatre with his 20-piece rhythm & Blues Orchestra, former Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis, and singers Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Sumudu Jayatilaka.

Enjoy yourselves: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Women’s Walking Network: Floodplain Forest

Thursday, June 5, 10am

Explore the Floodplain Forest at this monthly walking group for women, the route will take you through the reserve and along the Grand Union Canal. Adults only, free. Best foot forward: theparkstrust.com

Divorced, Beheaded, Died –

An Audience with King Henry VIII

Friday, June 6 & Saturday, June 7, 7pm-9.30pm

This immersive show invites you to come faceto-face with the infamous Tudor monarch, breaking the fourth wall as Henry directly interacts with the audience. Stay for the lively Q&A session where you can ask the King anything!

I will first take a little sleep: delapreabbey.org

Sam Carter

Friday, June 6, 8.45pm

Midlands-born Sam Carter is a BBC Folk Award-winning singer-songwriter and guitarist renowned for his narrative-rich songwriting. One of the genre’s brightest talents. Silver Horizon: stables.org

The Orb

Friday, June 6

The psychedelic ambient house innovators –who first took attention more than 35 years ago, visit Kiln Farm. Little Fluffy Clouds: mk11kilnfarm.com

Delapré Food Festival

Saturday, June 7 & Sunday, June 8

Artisan food and drink stalls, a professional chef demo stage and outdoor bars, cocktail workshops, cheese masterclasses and more, including entertainment for the kids. Tours of the Abbey are included in the ticket price. Feeling peckish?: delapreabbey.org

A rare chance to speak with Henry VIII! –see June 6 & 7

Classic Stony will be wheelie great on June 1

Pic: Jack Abbot

Milton Keynes Model Railway Society

Saturday, June 7, 10am-4.30pm

A chance for visitors to enjoy operating layouts from within the club and visiting clubs and individuals. A variety of trade stands, demo, preservation societies and local railway groups displays will also feature.

On track: mkmrs.org.uk

Space Pistol

Saturday, June 7

The only local show of the year for MK’s fast-rising alt-rock trio. Support comes from Kraken Waker and Hammer.

One Click: thecraufurdarms.com

The Signatures

Sunday, June 8

The official backing band for many of Northern Soul’s original artists comes to town, with Eddie Holman.

Rescue Me: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Beckets Park Dog Show

Sunday, June 8, 11am-3pm

Categories include cutest pup, prettiest girl, waggiest tail, best rescue, and golden oldie. Entry is £2 per class, also raffle, saleables and tombola.

Ruff justice: animals-in-need.org

Denton & District Gardening Club

Monday, June 9, 7pm

Don Witton will be talking about ‘Euphorbias and other Vibrant Perennials’ There will be plants for sale, and a raffle and refreshments. This will be followed by the A.G.M, Denton Village Hall, Vicarage Lane, Denton NN7 1DT Bloomin’ lovely: 01604 890875 or email m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk

Sounds of the 60s Live

Monday, June 9

Tony Blackburn OBE hosts the live version of his hugely popular radio show, celebrating music from the much-loved decade. The AllStar Band and Singers will perform hits from some of the era’s biggest artists and there will be lots of reminiscing.

I Heard It Through the Grapevine: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Lee Mead: The Best of Me

Tuesday, June 10

The stage star, who came to prominence on the BBC TV reality show Any Dream Will Do, steps out with his live band to perform songs from his musical influences and previous album releases. Wicked: stables.org

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Friday, June 13

The ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most memorable groups comes to the Derngate – and this collective is personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member, Mick Fleetwood.

Go Your Own Way: royalandderngate.co.uk

Happy Café

Saturday, June 14

Enjoy a friendly space where you can chat, meet new people and connect with others in the community, at The Square, Duston Community Centre, 10am-midday.

One lump, or two, in your tea?

Duston-pc.gov.uk or call 01604 583626

The Longest Johns

Tuesday 17 June, 8pm

Known for their rousing sea shanties and maritime tunes, The Longest Johns have captivated audiences around the world. This new tour coincides with the band’s latest project, Pieces of Eight

An Evening without Kate Bush

Wednesday 18 June, 8pm

Howl with the Hounds of Love and dance on the moors with Wuthering Heights! Sarah-Louise Young pays glorious homage to the music, fans and mythology of one of the most influential voices in British music. (10+)

Scummy Mummies

Weds 25 & Thurs 26 June, 8pm

Mum’s Night Out! Helen and Ellie are back with a brand new comedy show that will have you laughing till you wee. From menopause to mansplaining, teenagers to Tinder, no subject is safe. Featuring brand new songs, sketches, standup, and of course, sparkly new catsuits. (16+)

Simon Amstell

Sunday 29 June, 8pm

Bafta nominated comedian Simon Amstell headlines a very special evening of comedy! As a presenter, Simon has fronted hugely popular programmes such as Channel 4’s Popworld and Never Mind The Buzzcocks for BBC Two. (16+)

The Stables Wavendon

Milton Keynes MK17 8LU

Box office: 01908 280800 stables.org

Fingerpicking good – Sam Carter visits The Stables on June 6

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac –Going your way on June 13

Pic: Thom Atkinson

Peggy Seegar – Final Farewell Tour

Saturday, June 14

The grande dame of American and British folk music embarks on her last ever concert tour alongside her sons, Neill and Calum MacColl. The same week she plays the Wavendon venue, Peggy will turn 90. Song of Choice: stables.org

Milton Keynes Barrio Fiesta

Saturday, June 14 & Sunday, June 15, 10am

The annual Filipino Festival returns to Campbell Park, bringing a vibrant celebration of culture to the green space. Stalls and food, dance, live music and a May Flower Parade. Entry is free.

Wolverton and Greenleys Day

Sunday, June 15

Games, activities, food and drink stalls and live entertainment, hosted in the grounds of MK Museum. Everyone together: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

The Searchers –Thank You Tour

Sunday, June 15

Noted as the longest serving pop group in British history, The Searchers have toured continually for more than 67 years since choosing the title of the classic 1957 John Wayne movie as a name for their skiffle group.

Sweets For My Sweet: royalandderngate.co.uk

Singing for the Brain

Monday, June 16

Singing for the Brain® from Alzheimer’s Society uses singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity. It is held Heron’s Lodge Guide Centre in Loughton Lodge with both a morning and afternoon session available

Contact: 01908 232612 or email miltonkeynes@alzheimers.org.uk

Bat Out of Hell

Monday, June 16 – Saturday, June 28

The music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf combine to lead this ‘back by popular demand’ musical, making it a rock n’ roll feast.

Dead Ringer for Love: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Community Litter Pick: Great Linford Manor Park

Thursday, June 19, 10.30am

Get outdoors, enjoy a little light activity and connect with similar people – all while supporting the environment. Free. Bag it up: theparkstrust.com

The Crazy World of Arthur Brown

Thursday, June 19

The master of theatrical performance brings his operatic voice and unrivalled show to Wolverton.

The God of Hellfire: thecraufurdarms.com

NC Jazz – Nigel Price

Organ Trio – tuning up on June 28

Pic: Ron Milsom photography

Midnight Moo

Friday, June 20

Willen Hospice’s biggest fundraiser of the year returns – last year, more than 1200 joined the herd to help swell funds.

This year’s event will start from the new location of Middleton Hall in centre:mk Moo-vellous charity support: willen-hospice.org.uk

What’s the Story?

Saturday, June 21

A daytime indie disco for the over 30s! The biggest britpop revival of them all is imminent, but if you missed out tickets, this will give you some of the same feelgood. Champagne Supernova: theroadmender.com

Michael starring Ben

Saturday, June 21

Celebrate the music and the moves of the King of Pop with Ben Bowman, who looks the part and has perfected the moves that were synonymous with Michael. Thriller: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Forever Now 2025

Sunday, June 22

A brand new festival for the National Bowl with artists including Kraftwerk, The The, Billy Idol, Death Cult, The Damned and PiL. What the World Needs Now: ticketmaster.co.uk

Delapré Abbey Tour –Medieval History

Sunday, June 22

Join Sister Brigitte as she guides you through those who lived at the Abbey through the centuries, starting in 1538, at the end of the Abbey’s life as a Cluniac Nunnery. Abbey-ness: delapreabbey.org

Wakefire – A Midsummer Celebration

Tuesday, June 24

Two of the most inventive acts on the English folk scene, Lady Maisery and Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith, return with their next alchemic collaboration: an essential incantation to the summertime. Morris, mayday and magic: stables.org

Olney Open Gardens 14 –15 June

Feel inspired by visiting private gardens. £7.50 Entry fee.

Midnight Moo 20 June

Walk 5 or 10 miles at night for Willen Hospice!

Midday Moo 17 August

Walk 5 or 10 miles in the day, with pit stops on the way!

Cycle Sportive 31 August

Sign up to ride 35, 65 or 100 miles!

Scan the QR code for more details >>

willen-hospice.org.uk

Follow us on Socials: willen-hospice

Willen Hospice fudraisers are ready to Moo-ve it – see June 20

Meet Paddington at Milton Keynes Museum

Saturday, June 28

Come and say ‘hello’ and pose for a picture with the muchloved children’s character who was a close personal pal of Queen Elizabeth II. Marmalade and merriment: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

NC Jazz: Nigel Price Organ Trio

Saturday, June 28

Collectively, Nigel, Ross and Joel are one of the most hard hitting, dynamic and exciting jazz groups around, and they have the awards to back it up. It’s On!: royalandderngate.co.uk

Mozart Solemn Vespers, Mozart Divertimento in D major & Haydn Nelson Mass

Saturday 28th June 7.30pm

St Mary’s Parish Church, Woburn, MK17 9PG

Danesborough Chorus rounds off its 50th anniversary season with a performance of Haydn’s Nelson Mass accompanied by Alina Orchestra with soloists from the Royal College and the Royal Academy of Music.

Tickets via:

wegottickets.com/ event/643841 danesborough.org.uk

Women’s Walking Network 5 June, 10am

Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve

A friendly group walk seeing the sights of a different park each month.

Inclusive Strolls 9 June, 12pm | Furzton Lake

The Freddie & Queen Experience

Saturday, June 28

Enjoy the best of Mercury, May, Taylor and Deacon from the band who always sells out. Innuendo: mk11kilnfarm.com

Movie Musicals

Saturday, June 28

A celebration of the most iconic movie musicals ever brought to the big screen –from Mamma Mia and Moulin Rouge to Rock Horror and Hairspray You Can’t Stop The Beat: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Simon Amstell

Sunday, June 29

The super talented comedian, presenter, screenwriter, and director makes it to MK –sharper than any knife in any drawer, and capable of holding his own with any pop diva, which made for sterling episodes of Never Mind The Buzzcocks Set free: stables.org

Mad Hatter Afternoon Tea

Sunday, June 29, 1pm

Visit with your canine pals and help to raise money for Animals in Need - there will be two sittings for tea, at 1pm or 3pm. Pine Tree Farm, NN8 2EH Yappety-yap for tickets: 01933 278080

Duston Fun Day

Sunday, June 29, 11am-5pm

Stalls, world food zone, makers’ marquee, bouncy castle, face painting, Ark Farm, live music with Grande Quattro, Hollie-Marie & Tim Winstone, party games and more.

St Luke’s Field, Melbourne Lane, free entry. Family fun for all: duston-pc.gov.uk

Guided walks offering accessible routes and facilities, for all ages and abilities.

Community Volunteering: Wildflower Warriors 21 June, 2.30pm & 3.30pm Campbell Park

A chance to help improve the biodiversity of Campbell Park’s wildflower meadow.

Parks & Ride 22 June, 11am Great Linford Manor Park

A familyfriendly cycling series explores a variety of leisure routes.

More info, booking and full listings: theparkstrust.com/ events

The charity caring for Milton Keynes’ parks

Sharp and sensational – Simon Amstell is in town on June 29

A bear-illiant afternoon at MK Museum – June 28 Paddington™

Film Reviews

OCEAN

/5

At 99, Sir David Attenborough continues to defy the laws of time, biology, and probably scheduling. Ocean with David Attenborough is yet another dazzling feather in his already plumage-rich cap — a film as meditative as it is quietly enraging. The camera plunges us into the deep with the grace of a blue whale and the precision of a drone with a PhD. There are jellyfish that look like alien chandeliers, sea slugs that could model haute couture, and enough breathtaking wide shots to make even the most hardened cynic feel a twinge of awe.

But it’s not just an aquatic screensaver. This is storytelling with purpose. Attenborough isn’t just guiding us through the wonders of the deep — he’s holding up a mirror. We see the wreckage: coral reefs bleached like ghost towns, whales tangled in fishing lines, the relentless rain of microplastics. His voice, somehow both grandfatherly and godlike, never lectures, never scolds — he simply shows. And that’s far more powerful. By letting nature do the talking (and occasionally the screaming), the film lands with a deeper emotional thud than any statistic ever could.

There are moments of real heartbreak — a baby turtle struggling across a plastic-strewn beach, or a reef system that took thousands of years to grow now reduced to rubble. But miraculously, the film never tips into despair. There’s hope here, tucked in the crevices like shy octopuses. Marine reserves are working. Species once on the brink are returning. The ocean, it turns out, is a remarkable healer — it just needs us to stop stabbing it.

The cinematography is predictably stunning (this is Attenborough, not a BBC budget leftover), and the pacing is deliberately slow, like waves lapping at the shore. Some might find it meditative to the point of soporific, but that’s sort of the point — you’re supposed to feel the rhythm of the sea, not binge it like reality TV.

In the end, this isn’t just a documentary. It’s a parting gift from a man who’s spent his life trying to get us to look, to care, and — hopefully — to act. The ocean has never looked so beautiful. Or so wounded.

THUNDERBOLTS*

Star Rating: 3.5/5

Turns out trauma bonding makes for decent team-building. This ragtag squad of Marvel antiheroes — led by Florence Pugh’s perma-sarcastic Yelena — is sent on a morally dubious mission under a government programme that definitely didn’t read the fine print. There’s betrayal, brooding, and surprisingly meaty dialogue wedged between punch-ups and drone shots. Wyatt Russell broods. David Harbour grunts. Ghost is still… glitching. Yes, the villain could’ve been replaced by a cardboard cut-out and the finale descends into CGI soup, but there’s charm and some bruised heart beneath the rubble. Marvel fatigue is real — this, at least, feels caffeinated. ✪

Star Rating: 3.5/5

No one does fatalism with flair quite like this franchise, and “Bloodlines” keeps the absurdity flowing like blood from an overly pressurised espresso machine. A college student sees a disaster before it happens (this time involving scaffolding, glass, and poor choices), saving her friends — but death’s cosmic admin system doesn’t like interference. Cue a conveyor belt of elaborate accidents involving things like fire extinguishers and ceiling fans. The plot’s thinner than dental floss and the characters exist solely to perish theatrically, but that’s the game. It’s dumb, loud, completely daft — and honestly, still a ridiculous amount of fun. ✪

Star Rating: 3/5

Somewhere between a broken fairy tale and a council estate fever dream, Bird watches a young girl stumble through adolescence amid parental chaos and economic gloom. Nykiya Adams is the soul of it all — sharp, guarded, utterly magnetic — as she clings to her younger brother while their father (played with volcanic restraint) melts down around them. Enter Franz Rogowski, possibly magical, possibly delusional, definitely shirtless. Arnold’s 16mm camerawork gives it texture and grime, and while the plot’s threadbare, it’s stitched with aching humanity. Not everyone will connect — but those who do will carry it with them, wings frayed and all. ✪

Star Rating: 2.5/5

Eight teenagers. One snowy lodge. A supernatural threat. And a time loop that kills them repeatedly — and not always creatively. Based on the hit game, this adaptation wants to be both slasher and brain-teaser, but ends up in no man’s land between Scream and a lukewarm episode of Black Mirror. Ji-young Yoo makes a solid lead, but the rest of the cast feel like templates from a haunted script generator. The scares are predictable, and the twist feels less clever and more inevitable. Atmospheric enough to keep the lights on, but not memorable enough to leave you looking over your shoulder. ✪

UNTIL DAWN

‘It

brings together the misfits and the outsiders’

“It’s a bit like going to a gig but with a great story that’s being told,” says Glenn Adamson, star of Bat Out of Hell – The Musical, which roars into Milton Keynes Theatre imminently.

This reimagined production will be an absolute blast, Glenn promises: “Audiences are in for an absolute rock and roll party. It’s larger than life and an absolute riot.”

It features the music of songwriter and producer Jim Steinman and Meatloaf, and that first album remains one of the bestselling in history, with more than 70 million copies sold.

Not simply a jukebox musical, there is a story here too, based on the book by Steinman.

Bat Out of Hell is set in the dystopian city of Obsidian, which is ruled over by tyrannical leader Falco. The DNA of the Lost boys and girls has been frozen so that they are destined to remain 18 forever, living in the tunnels beneath the city. Then the fearless leader of the Lost, the immortal Strat, locks eyes with Falco’s daughter Raven and the immensity of their love-at-first-sight obsessions threatens to destroy both of their worlds.

Glenn stars as Strat in this high-intensity delivery: “He is sort of like Iggy Pop meets Peter Pan, stuck at age 18 for eternity,” he says of the character, “He falls in love with Raven, but she’ll continue to age while he can never grow older. It’s a dilemma, to say the least.”

Glenn, who has also wowed in We Will Rock You and American Idiot isn’t new to the work, having previously toured Bat Out of Hell in Australia and played the part in the West End.

But he is naturally excited about the opportunity to reprise the role: “It has the most incredible music and it’s a really joyous team to work with. We have such good fun and it’s just an incredible show. It has a great fan base and there’s no feeling quite like being in it.

and wife Rob Fowler and Sharon Sexton originated the roles of Falco and Sloane.

“It has kept all of Jim’s authenticity and music alive,” Rob says of this new delivery, “And from a performer’s point of view, it’s definitely going to be more in-your-face rock and roll. It’s like everybody in this piece is now a rock star.

“The buzz being out there each night is amazing.”

Steinman has incorporated iconic songs from the Bat Out of Hell albums, including the title track, You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth, I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That) and Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, as well as the previously unreleased song What Part of My Body Hurts the Most

“The songs are perfect for a musical because they are so theatrical and poetic,” Glenn points out. “He writes these banging tunes that lend so well to the format. Sometimes in a musical it feels like the songs are shoehorned in, but here they feel they were always supposed to be in a show.”

“Jim’s songs are like a two-act play,” he said, “Every song has its own story and journey, and that keeps the piece moving. It’s like going to your favourite theme park. Every ride is exhilarating, every ride is an adrenaline rush and every ride makes you want to get on it again.”

Bat Out of Hell successfully bridges the gap between gig and theatre show, and it also unites audiences, and families.

“I’ve seen grandparents come along with their grandchildren and they tell us, ‘Seeing the show, it made me go home and share my record collection with my grandkids’,” said Rob, “That’s the power of Bat Out of Hell, both with the music and the story. It brings together all the misfits of the world, all the outsiders, who come and see this show that’s also full of misfits and they all kind of find each other.

“It’s so lovely to see people find new friendships via a show that we’re so proud to be part of.”

> Bat Out of Hell – The Musical comes to Milton Keynes Theatre, June 16-28.

To book tickets visit atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Husband

Pics: Chris Davis Studio

Katie Tonkinson as Raven and Glenn Adamson as Strat lead the cast in Bat Out of Hell – The Musical

Full steam ahead for the psychological thriller

We learned the hard way never to trust someone you meet on a train, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t settle back and get all comfortable for a gripping show set on the tracks coming to a stage near you this month. And comedy? We’ve got it, by the jokeload. Here are this month’s best bits by Pulse’s Sammy Jones.

The Girl on the Train pulls into Milton Keynes Theatre (June 10-14) for a first class performance, with actress and broadcaster Laura Whitmore taking on the role of Rachel Watson in the psychological thriller from the mind of Paula Hawkins.

Rachel longs for a different life. Her only escape is the perfect couple she watches through the train window every day, happy and in love. Or so it appears. When she learns that the woman she’s been secretly watching has suddenly disappeared, Rachel finds herself as a witness and even a suspect in a thrilling mystery in which she will face bigger revelations than she could ever have anticipated.

“I read the book when it first came out and I was obsessed by it,” Laura says, “I love it when you find a book and all you can think about is that story. You wake up a little bit earlier to read the book and stay up too late to finish it. I am excited to show people my portrayal of Rachel this summer.”

In page-turning form, The Girl on the Train has gripped many of you – with more than 20 million copies sitting on bookshelves around the world. And let’s not forget the big screen version which was led by Emily Blunt.

The other big rock n roller this month, is literally that – a two-week stay for the awardwinning rouser, Bat out of Hell (June 16-28).

Rather than us wasting precious column inches here, let your eyes focus on the page facing this one for the detail you need.

Instead, we’ll run you through June’s onenighters at the venue: Enjoy a Fistful of Clary

with funny fella Julian (June 3), boogie-woogie with the inimitable Jools Holland (June 4), Prime Cut Comedy Cow with the promotion carving up slices of Adam Kay, Seann Walsh, Ninia Benjamin and Mark Watson (June 5), or enjoy the lip quivers and leg shivers of A Vision of Elvis (June 6).

And there’s more still; Glitterball winner and all-round funny fella Chris McCausland will turn frowns upside down with Yonks (June 7), Sounds of the 60’s Live is back with Tony Blackburn (June 9) followed by Showstopper! The Improvised Musical (June 30).

So that’s your peek into MK Theatre, but there are some gems hidden alongside the musical moments at The Stables, starting with West End leading man Lee Mead (June 10), back in town with The Best Of Me

Since bagging the top spot on the reality TV show Any Dream Will Do when Lee beat 10,000 hopefuls to wear that Technicolor Dreamcoat in the Lloyd Webber and Rice smash hit, Joseph, Lee has proven a smash hit on stage and screen, and on disc – with several album releases.

This Stables show will celebrate his two-decades long career, with music from theatreland, contemporary hits and tracks from his new EP.

The Scummy Mummies are back for a two night stay (June 25 & 26) with Hot Mess

laughing till you wee.’ Best take some fresh bloomers! There is more funny stuff with Alfie Moore (June 27) and his show, A Face for Radio, before the venue wraps up June with the biggest present of all, a night in the company of comedian, presenter, screenwriter, and director, Simon Amstell (June 29).

Sometimes, when we’re fed up with the humdrum of the daily grind, we go deep into Amstell’s historic put downs of muso’s and wannabees on Never Mind The Buzzcocks, and we always come back up for air grinning broadly. Perhaps Amstell should be available on prescription. Just sayin’.

Over at Stantonbury Theatre, #Hashtag (June 7, 2pm & 7pm) brings a vibrant exploration of modern adolescence to make you think. Plunge into a treacherous world of social media, where instant is the only sufficient, where sharing is a must, and where emotions are reduced to emojis.

The reminder here is that the most authentic moments in life arrive ‘when we dare to look up from our screens and face the unfiltered reality before us.’

> Get your tickets:

‘From menopause to mansplaining, teenagers to Tinder, no subject is safe’ in this show they say will, ‘have you MK Theatre: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Stables: stables.org

Theatre: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

Lee Mead – 20 years bringing the tunes

The Girl on the Train

Simon Amstell Pic: Harry Carr

View from the Far Kerb

Hard and Fast

Ihave taken up bowls –yay, me! – and I would be smiling if I were any good at it.

I’m told that experience is everything. Time will give me the expertise required to place a wood right where I want it. However, I will have to find a way to add 30 or 40 years to the average human life span in order to have the requisite time to do so. My dream is that science will provide a solution. Unfortunately, the situation at the moment is that while I have memorised all the strategies and preferred tactics, I lack the skill or ability to apply it to whatever match I am currently playing.

For instance: if the jack is surrounded by woods belonging to my opponent. I know that I basically have two options. I can either bowl a blinder that sidles up to the jack and gently nudges my opponent aside – a somewhat fantastic fantasy – or, I can send a wood hurtling at the whole collection; hard and fast.

Should I strike the target, the possibility is I might pick up a favourable result in terms of positioning once everything has settled. It is considered a good option by many. In my case, it is more likely my bowl will hurtle towards the gathering of those crowded around the jack, only for it to miss as if with flair and determination due to hopeless optimism on my part.

The idea would have been correct, but the execution will have been lacking something –usually, ability.

A bowl zeroing in on a group of others, hard and fast, can be an

exciting sight. The drama can liven up an afternoon. Some object to their shiny woods being battered, but it is the game.

Generally, however, gameplay is anything but hectic. Each delivery is careful and considered. The better players generally make it seem more casual, but they are merely masking their ability through a smokescreen of nonchalance created over many years of experience.

The beginner will betray their inexperience by openly stopping to target their bowl and exaggerate their swing as they seek to emphasis their adherence to what is thought to be a good technique.

Watching more experienced and sometimes very good players reveals a number of different styles and many that countless books will tell you is nothing but bad, bad, bad!

And yet, the opponent who swings their arm across their body and jerks instead of smoothly swinging that limb, will deposit their bowl at the jack where it will sedately and casually lean against it as if the best of friends with the nice little fella.

If I send my bowl down the green, hard and fast, according to what many might deem to be the best option, I end up looking worse than if I just tried a gentle but ultimately hopeless curving delivery. What I am beginning to understand is that there are no hard and fast rules over what works and what doesn’t.

Phil O’Hara

SUDOKU PUZZLE

Your stars

Flavour of the Times - The first half of June is brimming with sociable energy, making it perfect for connecting with others. With the Sun in Gemini, curiosity, intellect, and variety take centre stage. We’re more outgoing and eager to explore ideas—but this mental buzz can scatter our focus. Too many choices, too much chatter, and not quite enough listening may lead to miscommunication. As the month winds down, the New Moon in Cancer shifts our attention inward. This quieter, reflective energy invites us to reconnect emotionally with those we value most, offering a gentle moment to regroup and recharge.

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

After May’s earthy lull, your social life rockets forward! The month kicks off with Moon and Mars in Leo—perfect for parties and the spotlight. Creativity flows with structure, helping you refine your craft. Just beware of fiery overload; enthusiasm is high, but burnout’s a risk if you don’t pace your cosmic dance steps!

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

Watery vibes are scarce early in June, so don’t dive deep—float lightly instead! Rally the family, host joyful gatherings, and let laughter lead. It’s a fiery start, yes, but fret not: the New Moon on the 25th drifts in with tender tides. Emotional warmth returns, smoothing any spiky edges and reminding you where love lives.

LEO

July 24 – August 23

You’re the life of every party early on, with Mars lending flair and sparkle. But come the Cancer New Moon on the 25th, the mood shifts—less dazzle, more depth. It’s time to nurture treasured bonds and bask in the comfort of those who truly know you. Loud roars soften to purrs as your generous heart seeks genuine connection.

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

Gemini season can feel like wading through noise for clarity-loving you! The air buzzes with chatter, and you’re left sorting signal from static. Your skill? Filtering nonsense to find what fuels progress. Stay sharp, stay curious, and you’ll turn even the fluffiest gossip into useful insight for your next smart move.

Your Own astrological Forecast

You are bound to be affected personally by some if not all of the massive changes that are taking place this year. Not everyone will be equally affected on a personal level but the Pluto energy will be growing stronger for Aquarians, challenging for Leos and even more so for Scorpions and Taureans.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

You value deep connection, but Gemini’s flirty breeze may swirl too many choices your way! If none feel quite right, don’t fret—just enjoy the sociable spell. It’s a season for fun, not forever. As June ends, the Cancer New Moon brings tender vibes and emotional depth—finally, something that speaks your relationship language.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

May may have stirred the soul with secrets and storms, so Gemini’s lighter touch is a welcome breather. Embrace the froth and let yourself mingle—even if it feels a tad superficial. Venus entering Taurus hints at sparks with someone grounded and calm. Don’t underestimate the power of steadiness—it could anchor your depths.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22

Adventure calls, but this month, it’s mental, not physical. With so much stimulation nearby, travel plans may take a backseat. Information bombards you until Jupiter exits Gemini, but clarity may lag behind. What seemed meaningful might unravel into fluff— but hey, not all knowledge needs to be useful to be fun!

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

Early June may feel aimless, but the New Moon in Cancer on the 25th brings focus to home and heart. Watch your Party Pooper tendencies—you can be fun and responsible, promise! Venus in Taurus offers a calming influence, especially where money matters are concerned. You’ll soon find a clearer path forward.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

Mid-June stirs your emotional depths as the Moon lights up your sign. Be brave— share your feelings with those who matter. Vulnerability can be your strength now. Express yourself through your quirky charm and creative flair. Later, the Cancer New Moon adds a softer glow to your relationships, deepening bonds in heartfelt ways.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

Your intuition’s sharp this month—but don’t just dream, act! Opportunities await, but effort’s the key. Start small and confidence will bloom as results appear. You’re entering a creative phase with some practical bumps, yes, but your gentle persistence can turn visions into reality. Magic’s possible when you meet it halfway.

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

With Saturn and Neptune in your sign, you’re being nudged to channel creativity into lasting form. Self-doubt? Ignore it. Artistic or musical pursuits have serious potential—if you’re willing to do the work. Talent plus effort equals magic. Keep practising and you may surprise yourself (and others) with a star-worthy debut!

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

Venus sashays into your sign on the 6th, perfect for a romance that’s steady, sweet, and perhaps even financially comfy. You crave lasting love, not rollercoasters, and your instincts are spot on now. With the right person, your loyalty and sensuality shine. Let things unfold slowly—you do best when love grows like a well-rooted tree.

An astrological reading of your birth chart can help you understand how these changes might affect you personally. To fully grasp their meaning for you, I recommend booking a comprehensive personal consultation with me. This reading is tailored specifically to you and your life, illuminating insights you may not have considered. It will help you take advantage of positive energies and avoid negative ones throughout the year. I charge £1 a minute on Zoom or Skype, and consultations usually last about an hour. You can find more information or book a session at: www.astroguidance.co.uk. Alternatively, feel free to text or WhatsApp me on 07866 727743, or email me at howpark@aol.com for further details.