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AFrom the Kerry Lewis-Stevenson Editor
s the year draws to a close, it’s time to pause, reflect, and celebrate everything that makes this season so special. Whether you’re decking the halls, lighting candles, or simply taking a moment to appreciate life’s blessings, we at Pulse wish you peace, joy, and hope this December—and a Happy New Year to come.
This issue is packed with stories to make your heart sing and your spirits soar. For many, Christmas simply wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the pantomime. Our intrepid writer Sammy Jones has scoured the region to bring you a roundup of the best shows—so grab your tickets for an enchanting mix of magic, humour, and larger-than-life characters.
We’re also shining a light on those in our community making a real difference. Willen Hospice has launched a heartfelt campaign this month, giving you the chance to double your donation and help fund its invaluable services. It’s a brilliant way to give back during the season of giving.
For those without a safe space to call home, the holidays can be especially tough. UnityMK is tackling homelessness in Milton Keynes with compassion and innovation, providing vital support to those most in need. Their incredible work reminds us of the true spirit of togetherness and generosity.
On a lighter note, we’re celebrating 50 vibrant years of Stantonbury Theatre—a local treasure that has brought unforgettable performances to the stage. Take a look back with us at its remarkable history and the people who’ve kept its spotlight shining bright.
Of course, our What’s On section has all the details to keep your calendar full of music, theatre, and festive fun.
Here’s to a season filled with kindness and community. From all of us at Pulse, have a wonderful December!
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.
MK Pulse is distributed door to door to homes and businesses across: Aspley Guise, Aspley Heath, Bancroft Park, Blakelands, BlueBridge, Bolbeck Park, Bow Brickhill, Browns Wood, Caldecotte, Carlton, Castlethorpe, Clifton Reynes, Deanshanger, Emberton, Emerson Valley, Filgrave, Furzton, Gayhurst, Giffard Park, Great Linford, Hanslope, Harrold, Haversham, Kents Hill, Kingsmead, Lavendon, Lathbury, Loughton, Middleton, Monkston, Monkston Park, Newport Pagnell, Newton Blossomville, Oakridge Park, Oakgrove, Odell, Old Farm Park, Olney, Pennyland, Ravenstone, Shenley Church End, Shenley Brook End, Shenley Lodge, Sherington, Simpson, Stoke Goldington, Tattenhoe, Turvey, Tyringham, Walnut Tree, Walton Park, Wavendon Gate, Wavendon Village, Weston Underwood, Whaddon, Willen, Willen Park, Woburn, Woburn Sands, Woughton on the Green and pick up points across MK.
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Milton Keynes hospitality shines at MK Food and Leisure Awards 2024
The MK Food and Leisure Awards 2024 spotlighted the finest talent in Milton Keynes’ hospitality sector, reaffirming the city’s reputation as a vibrant culinary and cultural hub.
The Delta Hotel in Kent’s Hill provided the setting for a sold-out celebration last month as the MK Food and Leisure Awards marked their 12th year. The prestigious event recognised the exceptional talent and creativity that have placed Milton Keynes firmly on the map as a destination for food and leisure.
Guests enjoyed a three-course gala dinner as the city’s best venues, chefs, and attractions were honoured. Eileen’s was named Best Restaurant, Wheatsheaf claimed Best Pub, and Maaya secured Asian Restaurant of the Year. Newcomer Panzini Restaurant and Bar was also recognised, while Andy Slater of The Oakley Arms took home the coveted Chef of the Year award. Daytona Motorsport, meanwhile, was celebrated as Best Attraction.
Steven Dryden-Hall, the event’s founder, praised the industry’s dedication: “It was a joy to see the passion in the room and bring people together to celebrate all things food and drink in Milton Keynes—my home for over 40 years.” The evening also raised over £3,000 for
the MK Food and
Awards
the diversity and innovation
as a leading culinary destination.
Harry’s Rainbow, a local charity supporting bereaved children and families, highlighting the community spirit that defines the city. Now a staple in the hospitality calendar,
Leisure
2024 encapsulated
driving Milton Keynes’ reputation
The team from Eileen’s proudly celebrate their victory after being named Best Restaurant
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Double your donation to Willen Hospice this December
Christmas has come early for Willen Hospice, with online donations to the local charity being doubled from 3–31 December.
It all kicks off with The Big Give (3–10 December), a national organisation that brings together larger donors with the giving public to match donations for charities. Then, thanks to local philanthropists, donations will continue to be doubled until the end of December. All donations must be made to www.willenhospice.org.uk/christmas to be doubled. The Hospice is encouraging local people to think of them at this time of giving, and help raise funds for their community service, Willen at Home.
Willen at Home gives local people with a lifelimiting illness the specialist care and support they need to stay in their own home and live well until they die. This service alone costs the charity £1.4 million every year and currently receives no NHS funding.
Willen at Home Clinical Nurse Specialist Anita Parker shares what it’s like to care for patients in their own home at Christmas, and how it feels to work for a service which is entirely reliant on charitable donations.
“I never quite know what to expect when I walk through someone’s front door. Although we check in on our patients regularly in person and by phone, their condition can change very quickly. Someone might feel confused about what’s going to happen to them after a recent diagnosis, or a carer might be scared because their loved one is struggling to breathe. As a team we made more than 1,200 ‘SOS’ same-day visits to patients last year, on top of our routine visits.
“We visit patients 365 days a year, so Christmas feels like just another working day for most of us. But there are certain moments that stick in your memory. I remember
visiting a lady on Christmas Day who was approaching the end of her life and needed medication. She was lying in bed, surrounded by her family, who were all talking about happier times.
The house felt so full of love. They say a person’s hearing is the last sense to go, so I’m sure it gave her comfort to die in her own home, listening to the familiar voices of her loved ones.
“I’m only able to care for local people in their own homes because of charitable donations. Relying on donations makes it really hard for us to plan to be here for future generations. It breaks my heart to imagine Milton Keynes without Willen at Home, where local people facing the end of their life can’t call us for specialist advice when they’re in pain or upset. Many of our patients don’t know
who else to turn to, especially when local NHS services are under so much pressure.
“I hope you’ll support our Christmas appeal today to secure the future of Willen at Home.”
The Hospice recently launched their ‘Care at Home? Who Cares?’ campaign, which has received a huge amount of support, in order to secure fairer funding for this vital service. Until then, they are reliant on the generosity of the Milton Keynes community. Scan the code to donate or visit: www.willen-hospice.org.uk/christmas To find out more about how it works visit: willen-hospice.org.uk/ matchedgiving/
Anita Parker, Willen at Home Clinical Nurse Specialist
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E-ACT Ousedale Sixth Form: Kindness within our community
It is easy to highlight the tradition of academic excellence that E-ACT Ousedale Sixth Form has upheld for many years. However, we are equally committed to fostering kindness and community spirit. Claire Tierney, Sixth Form Coordinator, has worked closely with the Sixth Form Pupil Leadership Team and our Community Engagement Leaders for the past six years on a range of projects within the local community.
Engaging Beyond the Classroom
At E-ACT Ousedale, we are proud of our “Experiences Curriculum,” which incorporates a range of extracurricular and super-curricular activities. One area you may not be aware of is our work within the local community. You may have seen posts about this on our social media platforms.
We are committed to forging strong relationships with our local community partners and are extremely grateful to the local organisations that have provided volunteering opportunities for our pupils.
Making a Difference in the Community
E-ACT Ousedale Sixth Form pupils are already making a tangible impact in the local community. Currently, we have pupils volunteering at the Willen Hospice charity shop, local primary schools, and a nearby care home.
Joseph, a current Sixth Form pupil, shares his experience volunteering at the local care home: “I have been working with the Activity Coordinators to decorate for events and help with activities like arts and crafts. Doing something for the community is so rewarding. I love seeing how much joy the residents get from the activities we have helped with.”
A Community of Kindness
We are continually impressed by the maturity and commitment shown by our pupils in their volunteer roles. It is truly inspiring to see the drive and enthusiasm that our pupils bring to making positive contributions to the local community. Their kindness and consideration for others is heartwarming. We are always eager to hear from local organisations that may need volunteers, so please get in touch if you think we could create a strong partnership. Contact Claire via email at: claire.tierney@ousedale.org.uk.
Students are: Well prepared to leave Sixth Form and pursue their goals… Sixth Form students feel that sta support them well. Students appreciate the varied sessions on personal development… Committed teachers use their excellent subject knowledge to ensure that all pupils, and particularly pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve well.
Discover More
Prospective pupils and parents can learn more at our Open Evening on 9th January 2025. For details and to book your place, visit www.ousedale.org.uk.
• Bursary funding available, including travel
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50 years in the spotlight, and counting
During its half century of entertaining locals, Stantonbury Theatre has welcomed a diverse array of leading names to its stage. Sammy Jones looks back at its colourful history with those who have steered the creative ship...
Jazz stars George Melly and Stephane Grappelli, stage and screen comedian Tommy Trinder, singer Helen Shapiro and astronomer Sir Patrick Moore have all taken the stage in times past. But when the doors opened for the very first time in 1974, Dame Cleo Laine and Sir John Dankworth played the first concert.
A note from the event programme, written by Mr Ireland, the Chair of Bucks County Council, read: ‘The County Council is proud to associate with the Borough Council and the Development Corporation to provide facilities which will meet some of the leisure and cultural demands of the community as a whole as well as serving the educational needs of the next generation.”
Of course its stage has hosted countless numbers of drama students, too – learning their craft, and feeling their way, and Roy Nevitt was there from the start, working as Director of Drama and Theatre at Stantonbury Campus.
In fact, when Roy assumed that position, building work was still ongoing, and aside from the physical build, this new place
of learning was also about setting new standards of inclusivity: “...the design of an innovative curriculum, a flexible timetable, a culture that enabled everybody on Campus to be on first name terms, no uniforms, no punishments, lots of drama, music, dance and the visual arts as well as maths, science, languages and technology,” is the recollection.
Roy turned his attention to the theatre plans which then allowed for 200 seats.
“My first action was to double the seating capacity by introducing collapsible bleacher units that could be wheeled into any or all of the other three sides of the stage and put back in the dock when not needed. I added a lid to the orchestra pit. When fitted, the stage extended to the front row of the raked seating. When removed, there was room for a small orchestra or a band,” he remembers.
Expanding the seating capacity to a maximum of 400 was not the only advantage, The other was flexibility, making theatre-in-the-round and traverse theatre possible.
“There were three directors: Geoff Cooksey, in charge of everything: Hilary Davan Wetton,
The theatre in its opening year
in charge of Music, and me, Director of Drama. Hilary and I were given complete freedom to develop our roles as we saw fit.
“We shared the theatre space. My backstage dressing rooms doubled as his music teaching and rehearsal rooms. On Saturday mornings, the entire space was filled by the Music Centre and his orchestras and choirs used the theatre for performances. Otherwise the theatre was my drama teaching space, my theatre rehearsal space and, of course, my principal performance space.”
Roy spent 27 years at Stantonbury, “... learning something new every day,” he says.
“Ever since I had seen Peter Cheeseman’s great musical documentary plays at the Victoria Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent, researched, written and performed by a team of professional actors, musicians, lighting, sound, costume and set designers under Peter’s direction, I had wanted to achieve something as good using children, teenagers, teachers and other adults from the local community.
“Stantonbury Campus Theatre and the context of the new city made it possible.”
Roy’s departure at 60 coincided with his recovery from ill health, but Roy had his eye on the next venture – a theatre fit for our growing new town, as Milton Keynes was then.
The seeds of MK Theatre were being sown.
“By the time we were ready to proceed, funding had dried up under Thatcher’s Government,” Roy said, “With the help of Shaun Hennessey, who had worked for MKDC and then MKC I set up a Milton Keynes Development Company with myself
as Chairman and a board that included Sir Peter Thompson and the actor Kevin Whately. For a moment we thought we had secured Richard Branson’s money to build the complex but he withdrew his funds even as we were salivating over the architect drawings and models.
“Luckily John Major introduced The National Lottery which awarded us £20m. The Commission for New Towns gave us another nine million pounds which left us a few million pounds to raise.
“That was the moment for me to hand over Chairmanship of the Company to Sir Peter Thompson who was capable of raising the extra millions, while I kept responsibility for the Theatre Committee, which included choosing who to run it. I ignored the big commercial companies and chose instead Howard Panter and Rosemary Squire, who had one theatre in Woking and called themselves Turnstyle Theatre.
“Once installed in Milton Keynes they changed their name to Ambassadors Theatre Company and with MKT as its showcase venue, rapidly grew to probably the biggest and most successful theatre producer in the world,” which is quite the legacy.
Looking back on those Stantonbury days, Roy declares it was ‘a brief golden age.’
Vera Lowe began working at the venue in the mid-1990s: “It was a place I had been part of for many years, having first performed on the stage there in 1975, and then working with various local groups. The opportunity was my ideal job and my experience with local groups was what Roy and his wife Maggie wanted - so we could expand the number of hirers using the venue so it
MK was also a very exciting place to be as somewhere that was developing its arts and cultural identity without the boundaries of tradition.”
would become a part of the MK community, which it did,” she remembered.
Roy’s departure led to Hilary Rhodes’ arrival. She spent 17 years at the venue, joining in 2000.
“The attraction? The passion of the campus management to make a difference in young people and the community’s lives and the the opportunity to lead the theatre into its next stage after the retirement of Roy Nevitt and the recent opening of MK Theatre, which meant Stantonbury was no longer the only theatre in MK,” Hilary remembered, “It was like being given an endless supply of your favourite chocolate.
“MK was also a very exciting place to be as somewhere that was developing its arts and cultural identity without the boundaries of tradition. The ‘we can do this’ attitude was so refreshing and inspiring.”
Together, Hilary and Vera grew the theatre, ‘bringing the best small to mid scale touring productions to the stage, together with Stantonbury Theatre being the go to venue for local amatur groups, orchestras, choirs, bands, dance schools and many more other organisations.”
What was special about the theatre for Hilary?
“The chance it gave for students to experience first hand what professional theatre and theatre production was all about by engaging with it both on and off stage as participants and audience. It really was at the heart of the community, offering incredible opportunities for local professional and amateur groups to perform and contribute to the MK cultural scene. Plus, it was the perfect size to be able to programme some of the most innovative and exciting touring theatre at the time.”
Hilary developed the celebrated children’s theatre programme Theatre4Kids, and secured Arts Council Funding for a dance initiative which saw children and young people directly engaging with leading lights like Glyndebourne Opera, Northern Ballet and Milton Keynes Theatre, all of which she holds dear.
The very first brochure from 1974
Roy Nevitt (above); Vera Lowe and Hilary Rhodes (below)
But sometimes it’s an individual who makes the biggest impact: “One time I was thanked by a parent who had never been in a theatre before as they didn’t think it was meant for them. He had come to see his daughter perform on our stage and was overwhelmed by the experience. That made my cry.”
Away from the stage, there were obstacles to be navigated successfully: “Convincing the public that Stantonbury did have a life after the opening of MK Theatre and reestablishing it as more than just ‘a school theatre,’” was a big one, “It had become Stantonbury Campus Theatre and it was my challenge to get it back to being Stantonbury Theatre without losing the special nature of its place on the campus,” Hilary said.
She nailed that particular challenge, and will be back for a celebratory glass of fizz at this month’s anniversary show. In hindsight, what do you think it is that makes smaller community theatres so important – they really have their place too.
“I think principally, it’s the intimacy they offer audiences to engage with what’s on stage. Although it’s increasingly challenging to make the books balance, they do have the ability to be more challenging in their programming and producing.
“They are vital to the lifeblood of theatre in the UK, it’s where emerging artists/ writers/producers often get their first chance. Without them there would be no development to the mainstream, the West End etc. Too many small theatres are closing, you will suddenly miss them when they are not there.”
And she has words of warning for all of us: “The arts are more than just performing, they are the gateway to a whole new world of imagination, confidence building, creativity and personal development particularly for young people, and they are precious and under threat, don’t let them fade under the pressure of economics.”
When Hilary moved on, Vera guaranteed the theatre’s safe running, ‘ensuring it had the same ethos for the local community as a venue to watch performances as well as to perform in.’
Vera stayed in the role until lockdown, and she remains rightly proud of her time at the helm: “Stantonbury Theatre will always be in my heart,” she said, fondly.
As the venue prepares to toast its special anniversary, Theatre Administrator Ryan Truscott said: “Stantonbury Theatre has had
its fair share of ups and downs over the years but has always continued to exist for the performing arts scene in Milton Keynes.
“After the pandemic hit all theatres badly, it is wonderful that we have come back and are going from strength to strength,” he said, reflecting on those traumatic times from a few years back.
“It is testament to the place that Stantonbury Theatre has all the hirers, local theatre groups, orchestras and dance schools, together with new hires utilising our venue.”
And Ryan has been intrinsically linked with the venue for decades: he is fully invested.
“Having parents and family that performed on Stantonbury’s stage, then treading the boards myself from when I was seven, later working on the technical side and now in administration, Stantonbury Theatre has been a big part of my life.
“I am delighted that we are here for the community today in the same way that the theatre has been for the last 50 years. My greatest hope is for the theatre to be standing in years to come and for it still to be used by the community, for the community.”
> Stantonbury Theatre marks its 50th anniversary concert on Friday, December 6.
Performances will come from Carabosse, Company MK, The Living Archive Band, Pepper’s Ghost Theatre Company, Milton Keynes Theatre of Comedy and the Wolverton Gilbert & Sullivan Society.
Fifty years to the day since her parents played the opening concert, singer Jacqui Dankworth will headline the show.
“I was not even a teenager when my parents opened Stantonbury Campus in the 70’s - 50 years ago,” Jacqui said.
“Where has the time gone? I remember them talking about it, the beginnings of Milton Keynes and the creative opportunity the theatre would bring to the new city. I feel truly honoured to have been asked to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this lovely theatre. My dad would be proud!
I will be performing an intimate set with Memphis born pianist and singer, Charlie Wood, on piano. We will perform a program of some classic songs like The Windmills Of Your Mind from my new album and some golden oldies like The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. We will also be performing some swinging, pared down, duets from the American songbook like Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing and Beginning To See The Light. It will be a fun, intimate set with some beautiful songs. I’m very much looking forward to being a part of the celebrations. Long may the theatre continue!”
To book, visit stantonburytheatre.co.uk
Jacqui Dankworth - following in the footsteps of her parents who opened the venue 50 years ago
Just a selection of show flyers from the last 50 years, including the first performance, by Cleo Laine and the John Dankworth Quartet
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THUR 30th JAN ‘25 - 2025 Brochure Launch!
Join is for our 2025 Brochure launch! 09.00am- 15.00pm
The Ridgeway Centre, Featherstone Road, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes MK12 5TH To attend call us on 01908 613000.
SAT 8th FEB ‘25
Birmingham International Tattoo
£62.00 per adult, £60.00 per senior, £59.00 per child 2-16yrs. Includes entrance fee. BP Pulse Live Arena- Birmingham. Britain’s biggest indoor international tattoo with over 1,200 performers. With marching bands, exciting displays, and culminating in the spectacular grand finale featuring all the performers in a spectacle of pomp and pageantry.
*Please be aware that the seating area is accessed by 29 steps and then a further 2 steps per row*
*Please note full payment is required at time of booking*.
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 15.00pm
CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 15.20pm
Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 15.40am Birmingham at 11.30pm
WED 12th FEB ‘25
Kew Gardens Orchid Festival
£47.00 per adult, £42.00 over 65s. Includes entrance fee.
This vibrant celebration of colour will brighten the winter months, featuring a stunning Peruvian theme this year, showcasing exotic orchids and cultural highlights from Peru’s rich biodiversity.
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 9.00am CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 9.20am Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 9.40am
Kew Gardens at 16.00pm
THUR 13th FEB ‘25
Welford Park Snowdrops with lunch
£75 Per person, includes entrance fee to Welford Park and two-course lunch at the local pub. *Please make us aware of any dietary requirements*
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.45am
CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 9.05am
Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 09.25am
Welford Park at 15.30pm
SAT 15th FEB ‘25
Apsley House and Wellington ArchLondon with Fish and Chip Lunch
£85.00 per adult, £81.00 per concession, includes entrance fee and guided tours at both sites. *Please make us aware of any dietary requirements* Apsley House - Formerly ‘Number 1 London’ and home to the Duke of Wellington, Apsley House showcases opulent interiors. Disabled access is limited due to minimal ramps and lifts. Wellington Arch - Built as a royal entrance, this arch celebrates Wellington’s victory over Napoleon, topped with Europe’s largest bronze sculpture. Panoramic views await on its balconies. Note: A 1-mile walk separates Apsley House and Wellington Arch.
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.30am
CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.50am
Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 9.10am London at 16.00pm
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Milton Keynes set to celebrate neurodiversity with colourful umbrella installation
In a vibrant celebration of neurodiversity, Milton Keynes will transform Midsummer Place in 2025 with its most ambitious public art display to date, the Milton Keynes Umbrella Project. Picture it: hundreds of brightly coloured umbrellas, each symbolising the diverse beauty of the human mind, suspended high above in a stunning celebration of uniqueness and potential.
This dynamic installation, a partnership between Jane Lambert of ECG Healthcare and the ADHD Foundation, champions the intelligence, talents and strengths of the neurodivergent community. It highlights varied experiences, including Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism, Dyscalculia, Tourette’s Syndrome and Dyspraxia, urging us to view neurodiversity not through a lens of limitations but as a rich spectrum of perspectives and capabilities.
“A Celebration of Human Potential”
Through the Milton Keynes Umbrella Project, organisers aim to change perceptions and challenge stereotypes, engaging both the public and business communities.
Dr. Tony Lloyd, CEO of the ADHD Foundation, explained, “Our brains are as unique as our fingerprints. No matter your age, race, sexuality, faith, or nationality, 1 in 5 of us is neurodivergent – many without even realising it.” The project shifts the focus from traditional “deficit models” of neurodiversity to a strengths-based approach, spotlighting what neurodivergent individuals contribute, rather than challenges they may face.
As the largest display of its kind in the UK, Milton Keynes’ installation will be a joyful burst of colour across Midsummer Place, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all to enjoy.
Calling All Local Businesses and Community Champions!
The project encourages local businesses and organisations to get involved, offering sponsorship opportunities that include logo placements on individual umbrellas. Jane Lambert, project coordinator, is calling on the community
to take part: “We want everyone in Milton Keynes to see how they can be part of this celebration,” she said. “Neurodiversity deserves the same recognition and respect as other forms of diversity.”
Local schools are also involved, with children decorating umbrellas to showcase their own unique strengths. Some mini installations may even pop up in classrooms, inspiring discussions on the value of diverse perspectives and the contributions of the neurodivergent community.
Creating a Legacy of Inclusivity for Milton Keynes
At its core the project aims to create a lasting legacy for MK – an inclusive place to live, work and play. Local businesses will be invited to sign up to a Neurodiversity Charter to deliver more neurodiversityaffirming practises in the workplace.
About the Milton Keynes Umbrella Project
This installation is part of a broader UK initiative led by the ADHD Foundation, which has seen similar displays in major cities like London and Liverpool. With each umbrella suspended, the project invites us to recognise neurodiversity, raising awareness, understanding, and shifting perspectives on education and employment.
Want to Get Involved?
For more information on supporting or sponsoring the Milton Keynes Umbrella Project, please contact Jane Lambert at jane@ecgtraining.co.uk.
Get ready, Milton Keynes – this promises to be a celebration like no other!
Jane Lambert, project coordinator for the Milton Keynes Umbrella Project, invites the community to join the celebration of neurodiversity
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50 years and counting for the Gilbert & Sullivan devotees
As they celebrate a very special anniversary year, Pulse's Sammy Jones investigates Wolverton's long-running musical theatre aces...
Keeping anything operational for half a century is no mean feat, and so it is credit to the members of Wolverton’s Gilbert & Sullivan Society (WG&S) that they are currently marking 50 years of entertainment. London-based dramatist Gilbert and composer Sullivan (a particular favourite of HM Queen Victoria) successfully pooled their talents, collaborating on 14 comic operas which were delivered over 25 years, to 1896. It was their innovations in content that helped to influence and shape the development of the musical theatre genre
in the century that followed, and well in excess of a century later, their creations are still delivered on the stage with regularity. Even if you aren’t familiar with their work, you will probably use some of the turns of phrase attributed to them; sayings like ‘short, sharp shock’ and ‘let the punishment fit the crime’ are commonplace, but began with Gilbert & Sullivan.
Wolverton’s G&S Society was founded by Arnold Jones (left), who was employed by the Works, but in his spare time worked as the musical director with Wolverton Orchestral Society. Enlisting the help of his friend, Fred Cornford to chair the first meeting for this new group, actions soon replaced words and the group delivered its first performance, of HMS Pinafore, in May 1975.
A 2016 performance of Pirates of Penzance
“At first, the society was organised mainly by the local men but they were well supported by their hard working wives, family members and friends, all of whom became heavily instrumental in raising the funds for and taking part in the society’s first production, which was performed for three nights at the Wolverton College of Further Education,” said the group’s publicity officer, John Bailes.
Jazz ace Sir John Dankworth, himself newly settled in the area at that time, became one of the new group’s vice presidents.
Ticket prices were somewhat different then – just 45p would secure a seat in the rear stalls, 60p for the front stalls. If you wanted a programme, that was another 10 pence from your purse!
One of those stepping to the stage to let her voice loose at that debut performance was a young singer, Angel Bowen. Five decades on and she remains a President of the society and was among the cast who sang at the 40th anniversary show.
“In 1974 it was a new experience to sing and take part in Gilbert and Sullivan. Wolverton G&S always had a family feel to the membership which continues today,” Angela recalled, “I was lucky to play most of the character roles over the years and I was an active member. It is always good to support local companies and especially one that gave me so many opportunities and friendships. I am very proud to have been President of the Society twice; it’s lovely to be able to continue supporting the society and promoting music in the area.”
Clearly this G&S stuff has an allure, but what is it?
“It’s witty and satirical, with great music and lyrics,” John said, “There’s romance, melodrama, comedy, unrequited love, ghosts and plenty of scope for dancing!”
In all, the society has taken to the stage to perform 85 times; including 55 Gilbert and Sullivan musical comedies, 25 other musical concerts and two pieces that were written by Sullivan, but with a noticeable absence of his creative partner; Cox and Box, and The Zoo
Some performances have packed added punch, some of it certainly not planned –during one showing of Trial By Jury back in 1979, a bomb scare disrupted the production as it reached its climax!
It’s one thing to stage productions before devotees, but things can only move forward positively with new members, and with young blood. How do you attract youngsters to the G&S offering?
“Our productions are directed by a range of different people who all bring their own take on the show – sometimes modern and sometimes traditional, which helps to keep the material fresh. We’re a friendly and sociable society, open to anyone with a love of music, and we have accessible rehearsal and performance venues.
“The society is a thriving and successful amateur music group and our strength is our
membership,” John added, “Each year we welcome new faces and new talents, so, please do not be afraid to contact us. You will receive a very warm welcome.”
They do cast their net wider, material wise, sometimes too.
“We don’t just sing G&S – we also stage other productions such as Godspell, Jack the Ripper and Follow that Girl, as well as joining Wolverton Light Orchestra for their Christmas concert,” John said.
“In terms of attracting young people to our audience we still sell tickets to under 14s for five pounds.”
Currently, Wolverton Gilbert & Sullivan Society has a very healthy membership of 55, with Life Members and Patrons who swell the group away from the stage.
The most recent production boasted performers in their 20s and all the way through to their 80s. That’s the definition of a successful collective.
What is it about the work of those two men that has ensured their deliveries have manoeuvred through the ages, to stand the test of time.
“Gilbert & Sullivan loved to make fun of the establishment of the day – and the themes and lyrics are still relevant and extremely funny today,” John explained, “From the Lord High Executioner’s ‘little list’ in Mikado to the Peers in Iolanthe, the shows always seem to match the current climate.”
The Pirates of Penzance is the piece leading the chart for ‘most performed’ by the WG&S, but who knows whether the title will hold if the collective makes it through another 50 years?
The group is definitely planning on being around then: “We hope to still be sharing our love of Gilbert & Sullivan with future generations, bringing people together to sing and dance or to enjoy these timeless musical comedies, the forerunners of the musicals of today,” John promised.
> For more information about the society, or if you would like to find out how you can join them, visit wolvertongands.co.uk
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
Performing Jack the Ripper, 2023
WG&SS – Celebrating their half century in 2024
Delivering the Mikado in 1995
Unit 6B, Pineham Farm, Haversham, Milton Keynes, MK19 7DP
Christmas Trees: Germany’s Gift to the UK
Believe it or not, the Christmas tree wasn’t always part of a British Christmas. In fact, it was a German export, and it was Queen Victoria’s German-born husband, Prince Albert, who first put one up at Windsor Castle in the 1840s. Soon, trees festooned with candles, tinsel, and baubles were popping up in living rooms across the country. Now, almost two centuries later, we’re still at it – decking our halls and wrestling with fairy lights every December!
Those “12 Days of Christmas” Start... After Christmas!
No, the “12 Days of Christmas” don’t lead up to Christmas Day, as we tend to think. They actually start on Christmas Day and last until 5th January, Twelfth Night. In years gone by, this period was full of feasting, theatre, and merrymaking – basically one long party to ring in the New Year. Some areas in the UK still celebrate Twelfth Night with plays and community gatherings, keeping the spirit of the season alive just a little longer.
The First Christmas Card Was a Postal Promotion
In 1843, British civil servant Sir Henry Cole needed a clever way to encourage people to use the new postal service. So, he hired his artist friend, John Callcott Horsley, to design a festive card showing a family celebrating around a table. The result? The world’s very first Christmas card – and the start of a tradition that now sees billions of cards sent every year. Thanks, Sir Henry!
Stockings by the Fire? Thank, Saint Nick
Hanging stockings by the fire has its roots in a sweet little legend about Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop. According to the tale, Saint Nick heard about a poor man who had no money for his daughters’ dowries. In the dead of night, the kind-hearted saint dropped gold coins down the chimney, which happened to land in the daughters’ stockings that were drying by the fire. And voilà, a Christmas tradition was born!
Boxing Day: Not Just for the Shops
While we now associate Boxing Day with shopping and football, its origins lie in an old custom where wealthy households would “box up” gifts or money for their servants, who’d worked on Christmas Day. Boxing Day was a chance for them to celebrate with their own families, and the spirit of charitable giving has lingered ever since. So if you’re feeling extra generous on the 26th, you know why!
Dreaming of a White Christmas? Thank Dickens
The whole idea of a snow-covered Christmas is largely thanks to Charles Dickens. When he wrote A Christmas Carol in 1843, Britain had just seen a few unusually snowy winters, which gave the holiday that quintessential snowy vibe. It stuck, and now, despite the UK’s oftenmild December weather, we all picture Christmas with a dusting of snow. Cheers to you, Dickens! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Pantomime: The UK’s Christmas Comedy
Ah, the pantomime – a British Christmas staple! With slapstick humour, audience shout-outs, and a dash of ridiculousness, pantos are pure family fun. They stem from the Italian commedia dell’arte tradition, but have evolved into the classic tales we know and love, like Cinderella and Jack and the Beanstalk. And of course, no panto is complete without a loud “Oh no it isn’t!” from the crowd. It’s not Christmas without one!
Christmas Crackers: A British Bang
Christmas crackers, those little paperwrapped surprises that explode with a bang, were invented by London confectioner Tom Smith in the 1840s. He wanted to add a spark to his sweet-filled bonbons, so he added a small explosive snap. The tradition caught on, and now no Christmas dinner is complete without a crown on your head, a terrible joke, and a tiny toy that’ll inevitably get lost by New Year’s.
The Royal Christmas Message: A Tradition Since 1932
The Christmas Day speech is a timehonoured tradition that started with King George V in 1932. Today, millions gather round the telly to listen to the King (or Queen) reflect on the year’s events and offer good wishes for the festive season. It’s a rare moment of shared reflection that’s as much a part of Christmas Day as the turkey and mince pies.
Mince Pies: Sweet Treats with Savoury Roots
Though mince pies are sweet today, they originally featured meat – yes, really!
The earliest versions contained mutton or beef alongside fruit and spices. Over time, the meat got the boot, leaving behind the fruity, spiced pies we know today. In the UK, it’s good luck to eat one on each of the 12 days of Christmas – so stock up!
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Panto pizzazz and all that jazz!
Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without pumpkin carriages, naughty crocodiles, fairies and baddies and simply bonkers humour, would it? For many of us, a trip to the pantomime seals the yuletide deal! Pulse’s Sammy Jones fought Captain Hook, kicked the Ugly Sisters to the curb and battled the giant at the top of the beanstalk to deliver your round-up of the seasonal shows you can’t afford to miss!
Peter Pan
Starring: This is one production that will truly sparkle, with Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood in the role of Captain Hook, and comedian and ventriloquist Max Fulham in place as Smee. West End star Ross Carpenter is Peter.
Where: Milton Keynes Theatre
When: Friday, December 6, 2024 –Sunday, January 5, 2025
What to expect: “A strong cast, some incredible musical theatre performers, Craig flippin Revel flippin Horwood, and some bloke with puppets - it’s a nice balanced cast,” promises Max.
They say: “Why come? It’s a really great story, it has a moral, it is a great tale for children, it has flying in it, it has crocodiles in
it, it has lots of singing, lots of dancing, and it is very, very funny,” Craig promised Pulse, “And we’ve also got a monkey this year as well!”
Who’s it for? “Everyone,” promises Zara Mackintosh, who is starring as Tink, “It is often kids’ first experience of theatre ever, and for three or four generations of one family to come and watch one show together is so special.”
And another thing: “Monkey’s rider is mostly bananas, and the odd easy peeler,” says his stage pal Max, “That’s a lesser known fact about monkeys – they also like easy peelers!”
Book: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
Cinderella
Starring: Strictly Come Dancing champion Joanne Clifton will wave the magic wand as The Fairy Godmother, with Cbeebies’ favourite Andy Day stepping up as Dandini
Where: Northampton Derngate
When: Friday, December 6 –Tuesday, December 31, 2024
What to expect: Hilarious jokes, and lavish sets and costumes - a show packed with fun for all the family!
They say: “I just love panto – it’s full-on, 100 percent, and there’s something for everyone,” says Andy, erm we mean Dandini.
Who’s it for? It’s the perfect trip for all the family – children, parents, grandparents –as well as schools and groups of sorts.
And another thing: This is the fourth pantomime that Royal & Derngate have co-produced with Evolution Productions, who are run by husband and wife team, Paul Hendy and Emily Wood.
Book: royalandderngate.co.uk
Pan’s people are spending Christmas at Milton Keynes Theatre
Jack and the Beanstalk
Starring: Little Wolf Entertainment will bring this to the stage.
Where: The Core at Corby
When: Friday, December 13 – Sunday, December 29, 2024
What to expect: Everything you want from a full-scale pantomime, but without the large ticket price.
Little Wolf Entertainment are award-winning pantomime specialists, who create truly magical worlds, and transport you on a whirlwind adventure.
Dame Trott and her family have been selling ice cream at the annual fair for as long as anyone can remember. But when the ginormous giant puts the rent up, the family are forced to sell their beloved cow Pat for just a handful of beans…
Can Jack get his head out of the clouds for long enough to save the day? Will this huge adventure take them to new heights? Can Dame Trott stop life at the funfair being so unfair? It’s the biggest panto of them all, full of marvellous moo-sic, cow-ntless costumes and an udderly ridiculous Dame with giant size jokes!
They say: “We’re delighted to be bringing this larger than life show to the beautiful Corby
Cube. It’s a little gem of a theatre, and a brilliant place to watch pantomime,” said producer Alan Bowles, “We have loads of surprises in store, a beautiful cow who can’t wait to meet you, and a really impressive Giant! You simply must come and see this gigantic spectacle, which we can’t wait to share with our loyal audience.”
Who’s it for? All Little Wolf pantomimes are written with the whole family in mind. A fast paced, exciting story will keep the kids entertained, with loads of mucky slosh scenes, but above all our
shows are crammed with bucket loads of jokes – meaning mums and dads enjoy it too. There’s no smut – just loads of funny characters, high energy dance routines, amazing costumes (especially the Dame) and incredible special effects – something for everyone from three to 103!
And another thing: “Our show features a huge ice cream making machine, which Dame Trott and Silly Simon must learn how to use,” Alan said, “… but it does tend to go wrong, and things can get VERY messy!”
Book: thecorecorby.com
Have a ball at The Derngate with Cinders and co.
Bean there, done that - Jack and the Beanstalk in Corby
Peter Pan
Starring: Colin Ridgewell and Chris Wills are back on the stage together.
Where: The Old Savoy, Northampton
When: Friday, December 6 – Sunday, December 29, 2024
What to expect: This is a take on the much-loved tale of the boy who refused to grow up, and the venue is proud to present a swashbuckling spectacular for all the family. “There will be some fantastic local young performers joining the cast on stage this year,” they promise.
spectacular flying, thrilling sword fights, knockabout comedy, a dastardly villain and of course ... a ticking crocodile!”
They say: “As Peter Pan is a familiar and much loved tale we have tried to be true to the story whilst including all the favourite pantomime elements,” said director Keith Myers, “Expect an engaging story,
Who’s it for? The pantomime brings a magical twist to the classic tale of Peter Pan Combining humour with adventure makes it enjoyable for children and adults alike.
Dick Whittington
Starring: This is another great Paulerspury Players production
Where: Paulerspury Village Hall, Towcester
When: Wednesday, February 19 –Saturday, February 22, 2025
What to expect:
“A traditional pantomime full of songs, jokes, slapstick and the odd inflatable palm tree,” promises musical director Ian Taylor, “Dick is joined by all the traditional characters you would expect: Fairy Bowbells, the Fitzwarren family, the Alderman, Dame Flossie, Alice and Idle Jack. They are up against the evil Queen Rat and her henchmen. What role will the pirates play, good or evil? All we can say with confidence is this adventure will take you
from London to Morocco and you will have loads of fun, laughs, music and dancing along the way. Dick and his cat need your help to make sure the right side wins – we need your cheers for the good guys and your boos for the bad guys.”
They say: “Imagine a comedy hurricane, wrapped in glitter, fuelled by slapstick, and carried by a chorus of giggles—that’s our pantomime for you!”
Who’s it for? “Children, families and those who love fun pantomimes, and those who like an enjoyable evening, or matinee, of fun,” Ian promises.
And another thing: The Players group started as a group of mums and dads performing to support the village school. Thirty-five years later, they’ve delivered nearly 200 performances, sold 18,000 tickets and raised £90,000 for local charities. Show your appreciation when you go!
Book: paulerspuryplayers.com
And another thing: As we mentioned, one of The Old Savoy’s panto favourites Colin Ridgewell is returning this year. He will be hanging up his dame costume and make up this time though, in favour of playing Captain Hook!
Book: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Aladdin
Where: Stantonbury Theatre
When: Various dates between Tuesday, December 17 –Sunday, December 29, 2024
What to expect: “A fun-packed, family friendly, festive show,” promises Sam Peterson, who is co-directing and taking on the role of Genie, “Our traditional panto is full of singing, dancing and slapstick ridiculousness, and has a spot of humour chucked in for good measure. It will set you up perfectly for the winter season. Bring all your friends and family down for a couple of hours of laughter and classic entertainment.”
They say: “I’m very excited to be asked back for a third year and love performing at the Stantonbury Theatre,” Sam said, “The audiences are nothing short of amazing and bring such a buzz to the theatre. After successfully helping us defeat the Wicked Queen last year in Snow White, Aladdin promises to be even more exciting, fun and magical. I hope you’re able to join us for the adventure!”
Who’s it for? “Who is it not for?! No matter what age you are there’s a little something for anyone and everyone.”
And another thing: “The very first show is the first time the cast will have said the last line out loud,” Sam promises, “It is incredibly bad luck to say the last line in rehearsals so we won’t be doing that!”
Book: stantonburytheatre.co.uk
You’ll be hooked if you visit The Old Savoy in Northampton
For those who like their Panto done RARE - Aladdin at Stantonbury Theatre
Starring: This seasonal show is being delivered by the team at Rare Pantomimes
A Christmas Tail
Starring: Members of Dizzy O’ Dare, who have been delivering unique interactive circus and theatre productions for 15 years, and are widely regarded as one of the country’s most imaginative and playful companies. You’re in for a treat.
co-artistic director, “Everything about this is super exciting; from performing on a fantastic stage with an incredible team, to interacting with the audiences and creating a magical experience for all.”
Where: The Stables at Wavendon When: Tuesday, December 17 –Tuesday, December 24, 2024
What to expect: A delightful 60-minute family show. From dog days to canine capers, the show brims with laughter, surprises, and endearing moments as the joyous troupe takes you on the ultimate holiday adventure.
They say: “We simply cannot wait to bring the show to The Stables,” said Alana Jones,
Aladdin
Starring: Abbey Community Theatre group
Where: The Abbey Centre, Northampton
When: Thursday, December 5 –Saturday, December 7, 2024
What to expect: “This version of Aladdin is something you will have never seen before, written from scratch and a real change to the original story,” promises Jack Dawson from the creative team, “This pantomime gives different perspectives and you see different stories being told. It is full of comedy, drama and suspense, but does hold that family feel at heart.”
They say: “It’s safe to say the cast and crew have been laughing every rehearsal and with such creative freedom given to us by our director, we are making magical moments every day,” said Jack, who will also be on the stage in the role of Igor, “I love the obvious jokes I get to do, but also the subtle ones that will be appreciated by adults too. It’s not one to be missed!”
Who’s it for? “All ages,” Jack promises, “Every line or joke is time appropriate and can be
Who’s it for? This unique production promises to entertain audiences of all ages with its whimsical absurdity and heartwarming charm – everyone is welcome.
And another thing: Michael Imerson, co-artistic director, has just returned from Busan International Comedy Festival and Sydney Fringe Festival with The Giant Balloon Show, winning awards at both festivals!
Book: stables.org
The Jolly Christmas Postman
Starring: An ensemble cast with plenty of shared pedigree, including Samuel Morgan-Grahame as the titular Postman
Where: Northampton Royal When: Saturday, December 7 –Tuesday, December 31, 2024
What to expect: The Jolly Christmas Postman is a brand-new stage adaptation of the popular book by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, bringing this frosty, fairytale adventure to life, with live music, original songs and a sprinkling of theatre magic. The award-winning story sees the Jolly Postman cycling through the snow to deliver parcels and letters to familiar friends as they prepare for Christmas celebrations, including visits to Little Red Riding Hood, Humpty Dumpty, the Gingerbread Man and the Big Bad Wolf!
enjoyed by children and adults. Aladdin is a massive fan favourite and, even with this adaptation being different, it still has the origins of the story we all love.”
And another thing: This show is being directed by Joe Johnson, he also happens to be the writer, and was responsible for writing and directing the group’s last pantomime, Cinderella.
Book: abbeycommunitytheatre.co.uk
They say: “We have the iconic red bicycle at the ready for the Jolly Postman to jump on board and start delivering some festive fun!” said director Jesse Jones, “We can’t wait for you to join us!”
Who’s it for? All ages, with an emphasis on younger children and their families.
And another thing: The cast of six actors are all talented musicians too, and between them will be playing more than 10 different instruments during the show.
Book: royalandderngate.co.uk
The Jolly Christmas Postman –a first class delivery
A paw-some show for yuletide –A Christmas Tail at The Stables
A different adaptation, with the same great feel, courtest of Abbey Community Theatre Group
This beautiful shot of a male kingfisher was captured by Pulse regular Colin Kempster, who said the bird had teased him for many months before he managed to grab this shot recently. Colin took the image at the FloodPlain Forest Nature Reserve
Stormtroopers aren’t usually known for their kindness, but in a break from tradition, this lone trooper swapped fear for fun, taking to the streets to rattle the charity tin.
“After a hard day looking for droids.
I couldn’t miss this opportunity to raise money for Olney Is Kind, one of the greatest charities in the galaxy,” he said.
There were some truly outstanding entries in this year’s Hanslope Scarecrow Festival including It, Maleficent and Matilda! The event has been an annual staple for the past three years. Obviously, a straw poll decided the winner!
“We raise money for our Christmas Eve Santa run. As the village has grown, we have more children and we want to keep this going,” said committee member Marion Ainsworth, “This year we have also raised money for the preschool.”
Always at the forefront of new technology, a self-driving bus made its debut in the new city earlier this month. StreetCAV is a ‘plug-and-play’ driverless shuttle that will be on the streets in December. If successful, residents could begin utilising the service as early as next year.
Pics: Marion Ainsworth
Animals play major roles in wars too, and in Newport Pagnell, Loki, Havok and Rocket marked Remembrance Day in style, each sporting their own poppy.
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Get Christmas all wrapped up without having to reach for the sellotape –these perfectly sized festive gifts come ready to pop into seasonal stockings...
Enjoy all the fun of a chocolate orange with not a single calorie to count!
Lush’s Chocolate Orange gift combines two of the brand’s popular all-year-round products and sits them in a fabulously fruity packaging. Your recipient receives a tub of body scrub and a pot of Posh Chocolate body wash. Peel your mind and the zest will follow!
Get it: weare.lush.com or stores in Northampton Grosvenor Centre and centre:mk in Milton Keynes
RRP: £15
It’s a seasonal favourite and an annual sell-out, and Snow Fairy is a total Lush delight – give us this over a box of choccies any day.
Exuding confidence, courage and kindness, this four piece candy floss selection pack boasts a Snow Fairy roll bubble bar, shower gel, body lotion and bath bomb, effortlessly taking you on a fragrant journey from 2024 and into 2025.
Get it: weare.lush.com or stores in Northampton Grosvenor Centre and centre:mk in Milton Keynes
RRP: £27
Lush is known for its bath bomb offering, and Penguin’s Christmas Party gift set brings four seasonal characters together – Sleepy Bear, Groovy Snow Fairy, Penguin and Magical Santa.
Simply pop your choice into the tub and it will deliver an explosion of essential oils. Step in, lay back... and relax. Fancy a little easy reading while you soak? This box set includes a little story starring the bath bomb characters. Cute.
Get it: weare.lush.com or stores in Northampton Grosvenor Centre and centre:mk in Milton Keynes
RRP: £24
Spa
and
and tropical, and the perfect size to pop into your pocket or your overnight bag.
Get it: spaceylon.co.uk and amazon.co.uk
RRP: £17
Anyone dreaming of a clear skin Christmas will appreciate this Then I Met You Purify & Plump Duo. The deluxe travel-sized present boasts the Living Cleansing Balm to dissolve makeup and grime, and the Bong² Bounce™ Cream which is rich in Vitamin C, to moisturise and boost elasticity. Not sure of their skin type? No worries there, this is suitable for all.
Get it: SpaceNK.com
RRP: £29
If bigger is better for you, Spa Ceylon have pulled together four fragrances for its Undersea Paradise Perfumed Body Spray collection.
The limited-edition festive bundle unites the cracker trio of fragrances with Bentota – but each is the 60ml size.
Escape to a tropical undersea paradise with every spray, and every sale contributes to the brand’s initiatives to conserve precious endangered marine eco-systems in the Ceylon Seas.
The gift that gives again, and again.
Get it: spaceylon.co.uk and amazon.co.uk
RRP: £36
Ceylon’s Undersea Paradise Island Cracker Mini Trio is the perfect fragrant stocking filler – with three crackers each containing a mini body spray (one each of Mirissa, Unawatuna
Arugam). Exotic
New pothole machine begins fixing more roads in Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes City Council has invested £100k in the new Roadmender Elastomac technology to allow more potholes to be fixed. The new technology will improve the quality of road repairs that will last longer than traditional methods, as well as improving the time it takes to do the work.
The cutting-edge system is also highly sustainable, using recycled materials, reducing waste and carbon emissions. The process uses a pioneering material which bonds to the existing surface without the need of extensive digging, allowing for repairs to take place with less disruption, and it is naturally waterresistant meaning repairs last longer.
Trials of the technology in Milton Keynes and other council areas have shown the approach to be very successful, reducing the cost of repairs and allowing more potholes to be filled as council budgets are stretched.
The new Elastomac machine has now been put into operation and last month was repairing potholes on the Oakhill H5 Portway roundabout alongside other major resurfacing and safety works.
City council to pave the way for electric future
Milton Keynes City Council is set to upgrade its public charging infrastructure to support the growing number of people making the transition from petrol and diesel cars to electric vehicles (EV).
Building on consultations with the local community and EV charging providers, the city council is positioning itself at
the forefront of sustainable transport through the introduction of new superhubs, dedicated charge hubs, and residential charging options. A decision to begin the procurement process to select the providers is expected to take place next week.
The new infrastructure will accommodate the city’s growing EV take up, with electric cars already making up 16% of all vehicles in MK, which is projected to reach nearly 30% by 2030 and almost 100% by 2050. As part of the procurement process, the city council will be looking at providers who can deliver:
Superhub charging stations: high-capacity charging capability located in busy areas that can serve a large number of vehicles at peak times, with a five-minute top up
Dedicated charge hubs: located in both commercial and residential areas, these hubs will create a network that aligns with residents’ daily routines and commuting patterns. Charge hubs will give drivers a top-up within ten minutes – one hour
Residential chargers: further investment in on-street chargers for households without off-street parking, designed for overnight charging.
Pete Marland onsite with the Elastomac machine last month, as it repaired potholes on the Oakhill H5 Portway roundabout alongside major resurfacing and safety improvements
The new Roadmender Elastomac will improve the quality of road repairs that will last longer than traditional methods
By Cindy LGH @CindyLGH
All the Trimmings...
We’re on the countdown to 2025 – this year having gone in a flash – and as usual, it’s time to go out (to work, the shops, or dancing) with a bang; in your shiniest, most special wears.
The Autumn/Winter catwalks were a splash of sequins and all that glitters. From sequinned camo bomber jackets at Gucci, to sparkly knits at Dries Van Noten. There were OTT tinsel cuffs and collars at 16 Arlington and Alberta Ferretti, while Tory Burch sent models out in white, shimmer-fringed maxi dresses - like those fibre optic faux Christmas trees, come to life.
To wear the trend, choose big bow details, ruffles and heaps of beading - from silhouettes that spotlight the wrists and neck, to bedazzled ballerina flats. Most of us have something sequinned at home to pull out, and smart shoppers already know this type of thing lies in excess in local charity shops. Whatever you find, ‘tis the season for more is more, so go ahead and pile it on. Serve party style with
Salmon, leek & dill tartlets
METHOD
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Makes: 36
INGREDIENTS
25g essential Waitrose Unsalted Dairy Butter
1 leek, thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, crushed
170ml tub essential Waitrose Double Cream
1 medium Waitrose British Blacktail Free Range Egg
213g can essential Waitrose Wild Red Salmon, drained
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, plus extra fronds for garnish
2 x 117g packs Waitrose 18 Party Tartlet Cases
1. Preheat the oven to 190°C, gas mark 5. Melt the butter in a small frying pan and add the leek and garlic. Cook over a medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.
2. Beat the cream and egg together in a medium bowl, then fold in the leek mixture along with the salmon and dill. Divide between the tartlet cases.
3. Sit the tartlets on 2 large baking sheets and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is just set. Garnish with dill fronds and serve.
COOK’S TIP
Change the flavour of these tartlets by swapping the dill for chopped fresh chives, or make a selection of both to serve at your party.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose. Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.
The best present of all this Christmas? Somewhere safe to stay
For those of us fortunate to have a roof over our heads and family and friends to share our down time with, Christmas really is the season of goodwill and togetherness.
But for others who have no safe space to lay their heads, Christmas amplifies feelings of loneliness and desperation, writes Sammy Jones.
It’s a sad fact that while we hunt for that ‘must have’ Christmas gift, there are others in our community whose greatest wish is to find somewhere to rest without fear.
Here in Milton Keynes, UnityMK is working hard to be the change for good.
The charity, launched back in 2010 and until late 2023 known as the Winter Night Shelter, has a simple vision – to end homelessness in the new city, working to support those who are already in the grip of homelessness, or those at risk of becoming homeless.
But societal issues have led to a worsening situation, and with rising numbers of people struggling with the issues that can lead to homelessness, UnityMK has responded by delivering welfare services that are operational all year round.
As numbers of people accessing the services rise, how do staff and volunteers maintain a positive outlook?
“Our guests may be experiencing extremely challenging circumstances in their lives, but we get to be a place where everyone is welcome,” said the charity’s CEO, Emma Johnson.
“Our team has the privilege to listen as guests share some of their journey, to show empathy, to show we care. Our aim is that they feel seen and provided with support.
“Sometimes the team can feel overwhelmed when they see the increasing number of newly homeless guests or sometimes the complexity of help needed. But as a team we celebrate every small step forward. Anyone who has spent time in our centre will know that, more often than not, you will leave feeling uplifted.”
UnityMK works hard to make the difference for its users, but the charity is itself in need – times are tough, and when society struggles, the impact is felt by support networks too: “It is becoming increasingly challenging for charities like ours in the current climate,” Emma
admitted, “Our services are in high demand due to the cost-of-living crisis, and we face increased running costs and challenges in securing grant funding. We are very grateful for the support of our local community and it’s more vital than ever.”
Running out of Unity Park Station, or ‘the old bus station’ to many, the Welfare Team is on hand to assist with practical help like food and clothing, sleeping bags and toiletries and they can help to find long term solutions.
During this most challenging time of year, the charity can also source emergency accommodation in local venues for those otherwise facing rough sleeping.
There is still an element of society that shows no empathy, and believes the issue of homelessness is brought about by the individuals in need. How do you answer those people?
“Some of our guests do have substance dependencies, often as the result of childhood trauma,” Emma acknowledged, “But many of those who come to our centre have become homeless due to relationship breakdowns and an increasing
The Unity Place welfare centre
number come who have never been homeless before. The increasing cost of living, a sudden redundancy, health issue or eviction from a rented property can cause people to just be a step away from being homeless.
“It really could happen to any of us, at any time, particularly in light of the current economic climate. The stereotypical views of homelessness are often outdated, and there will be people we all know who are struggling financially and worrying they could be at risk of homelessness in the future.”
On any given week, Unity MK welcomes around 200 guests who access its services at the aforementioned Unity Park Station, and volunteers to ensure the smooth running are always welcomed.
In figures
3036 meals were served during the winter season of 2023/24
420 volunteers support the charity throughout the year
1581 beds were made during the 2023/24 winter season
“Throughout the winter months, we have a range of roles in our welfare centre and our circuit night shelters, which operate on different nights in multiple venues across Milton Keynes.”
And how is the next 12 months shaping up for UnityMK?
“Immediately, we are focusing on getting our night shelters up and running and fully staffed with volunteers - ensuring we can provide up to 15 beds each night for people who would otherwise be facing nights out on the streets.
“Our daily welfare service will also continue to operate from our centre at Unity Park Station, providing practical access to hot food, showers, laundry services, etc., as well as supporting our guests to access accommodation and employment pathways.
“We also plan to continue our renovation of a building in Wolverton that, once ready, will focus on both preventative work and providing ‘the next step’ for guests we have already supported into accommodation.”
Emma has a message for anyone who might need to call on UnityMK: “Our services are open to anyone—you don’t need to be experiencing homelessness to access our support,” she told Pulse, “The sooner you approach us for help, the more options we have available to support you.”
> To learn more about the charity and its mission, and to see how you could support its work by donating, visit unitymk.org
> If you are interested in fundraising for the charity, drop an email to fundraising@unitymk.org
One man’s story
‘I first came to UnityMK around four years ago after being evicted from my home,” John* told us, “Since then, I have been in and out of accommodation. I have sometimes had challenges accessing official help, and UnityMK has supported me when I often felt I had nowhere else to turn.” Losing your home and being forced onto the streets is a terrifying thought, but what is it like to find that a reality?
“It’s scary, frightening, and dangerous,” John said, “It is very difficult to find somewhere to stay, and you constantly worry about things like where your next meal is coming from and if you will be moved on.”
What did UnityMK do for you?
‘UnityMK saved my life. They took me off the streets and gave me a bed in their night shelter service more than once. As well as their direct welfare support, they also referred me to partner organisations, like ARC who continue to help me in my recovery from addiction difficulties.
“I still have challenges in my life, and UnityMK has continued to support me throughout.”
John says that UnityMK’s support was unwavering when he most needed help, and he is now reciprocating, by donating his time to the charity.
“I wanted to give back, so for the last few years, I have also been a volunteer with UnityMK, which I really enjoy. I am often found manning reception, organising laundry, or helping to run the food bank service.”
As a community, why should we support their work?
‘It’s the only place I know of locally that is a one-stop shop of support for anyone who needs it,” John added, “They help with accommodation, finances, hot meals, showers, clothing, sleeping bags… the list goes on and on.”
*Name has been changed to protect the identity of the individual
A Unity Place volunteer greeting a guest
Night shelter room
The evening meal being served at the Night Shelter
DIGGING DEEP
The holly and the ivy (and the poinsettias...)
Ordinarily, we would be endorsing you getting outside and getting busy in the garden, but it’s Christmas, so in a break from tradition, we’ll allow you to down tools for a few days.
Instead, this month we suggest bringing the garden in from the outside, or at least some choice pieces!
These days, we shop for plastic trinkets and other non-environmentally friendly seasonal decorations to decorate our homes, but nature was traditionally always the way to mark yuletide in style.
Christmas trees remain the focal point in many of our homes, with firs, spruces and pines looking stunning and providing nature’s perfect festive aromas.
Famously, it was Prince Albert who was credited with introducing them in this country, back in the 1840s, but Queen Charlotte was dressing trees for the festive season in Windsor some forty years earlier!
While they usually sport baubles these days, in earlier times candles would glow from the branches – not to be advised!
‘Deck the halls with boughs of holly,’ goes the carol, and large branches of holly can certainly deliver the wow factor if you have the space.
If your home is more petite, holly can be woven into table settings, displayed in small
How does your garden grow?
Although the days are still getting shorter, there are plenty of jobs to do in the garden – this is a good time to winter-prune apples and pears to control their size and shape and to increase their productivity, while they are in a dormant state. Grape vines can have the main framework secured and the side shoots cut back to two buds, with no risk of ‘bleeding’ (the sap leaking from the cut surfaces). Climbing roses can also have the main stems carefully tied in place and the side shoots pruned to two or three buds, while bush roses can have most of last year’s growth removed, as well as any spindly, dead or diseased wood.
tubs and of course its glorious green leaves and striking red berries look wonderful in any wreath.
Using conifers, holly and ivy in decorative form can deliver an easy wow factor, and it’s sustainable too – waste free and wonderful. Further enhance your displays with dried fruits and pine cones for a unique, impressive table centrepiece, a welcoming front door display or to give furnishings an easy festive flair.
It is your choice alone as to how sedate or extravagant you go.
Mistletoe is another popular seasonal berry, and the parasitic plant is used to steal a Christmas kiss beneath – a tradition dating back a couple of hundred years.
It is said to bring bad luck to refuse a peck – so if you don’t want to engage, be sure to avoid a sprig above your head. But when all the berries are gone? The tradition goes there can then be no more puckering up!
If you are looking for something much simpler, and would rather shop for your displays, there are plenty of plants that scream Christmas – and top of the list is the poinsettia.
With its dark green leaves and striking red bracts, it is a popular seasonal gift, but don’t discard them when the decorations come down – with a little bit of TLC, your plant will stay healthy all year round. Just like dogs, poinsettias are for life, not just for Christmas!
Our choice is always a Christmas cactus, which requires minimum attention – they like humidity, and so long as you don’t overwater, they’ll be a perfect window companion.
Show them a little love, and in turn they will show their appreciation with a terrific show of flowers every yuletide, and they can last for decades. Ours have, and they are bloomin’ marvellous!
Leave some piles of fallen leaves in a spare corner, to rot down naturally and provide protection for wildlife of all sorts.
Two gorgeous small evergreen shrubs in flower at present are Coronilla glauca citrina (inset) and Sarcococca hookeriana. Both are fragrant. The former is a sun-loving bush with lemon, peashaped flower clusters, and can also be trained up a trellis, while the latter grows well in shade and has small, pink-flushed white flowers. It is happy growing in a pot.
It is a good idea to cut the leaves of hybrid hellebores down to the ground – it prevents the spread of a fungal disease – and put the leaves in the municipal bins. This means that these stunning flowers can be clearly seen in the next few months, when they will be very popular with early-flying insects.
Gold Feather Place Card Holder £3.95 melodymaison.co.uk
Deauville
Florence and Kensington Dining Set - A Sparkling Christmas £699 furnitureandchoice.co.uk
Set the scene for an unforgettable festive feast with our Christmas Hosting round-up, featuring everything from elegant candles and stylish placemats to festive crackers and themed ceramics - all you could possibly need to take your table setting to the next level. It’s all about those thoughtful finishing touches that bring the magic of the season to life, transforming any gathering into a special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or an intimate dinner, these carefully curated pieces will make your holiday table shine.
2
Christmas Glasses with Snowflake Design £2 poundland.co.uk
Champagne Glass Set of 2 £14 procook.co.uk
Christmas Tableware braided-rug.co.uk
Pack of 6 Silver Christmas Symbol Metal Charms for
Christmas Stags Napkins (Set of 4) £19 sophieallport.com
Octopus Stand and Glass Bowl £169.95 annabeljames.co.uk
Crackers
Mastering the Art of Layering
As the world of interior design shifts toward cosy, personalised, and thoughtfully designed spaces, one trend that is making waves in 2024 is layering. Rooted in texture, depth, and diversity, layering isn’t about simply piling items on top of each other; it’s an art that transforms rooms into comfortable yet sophisticated spaces, effortlessly blending luxury with lived-in charm.
Layering is all about creating a multidimensional space using textures, materials, colours and patterns in a cohesive and intentional manner. It’s the strategic placement of decor elements that add depth, character and comfort to a room without overcomplicating it. Think of it as composing a symphony with different instruments—the key lies in balancing these elements to create a harmonious yet captivating space.
To achieve a balanced, refined look, start by focusing on colour. Colour can be used to subtly guide the eye and create atmosphere.
Use a neutral base such as beige, grey, or white to ground the room, then add in a range of complementary colours. Try adding warm hues as blinds, curtains, cushions, blankets, rugs, or accent chairs. The key is to let the colours flow smoothly across the room, rather than have them clashing.
Patterns bring rhythm and variety, perfect for making a statement in a subtle way. When layering patterns, start by using accents like cushions or wallpapers with small, geometric repeats or place an abstract rug beneath a coffee table or sofa to add an extra dimension without overwhelming the eye. To keep it cohesive, stick to a similar colour
www.coxandcox.co.uk
palette, varying the scale of patterns (largescale florals paired with small checks, for example) to achieve a balanced look.
Textures are the foundation of layering, as they invite tactile interest and visual intrigue into a space. Mix plush throws, smooth leather, woven baskets and crisp linens for a blend that’s inviting and luxurious. Even minor textural additions like velvet cushions on a linen sofa or a jute rug beneath a sleek, shiny coffee table can subtly elevate a room’s appeal.
Layering lighting can transform a flat room into a dynamic and atmospheric space. Combine overhead, ambient lighting with task lighting (such as desk lamps and reading lights) and accent lighting (wall lights and LED strips) for a balanced effect. Use dimmable fittings to create a customisable, flexible, warm ambiance that can shift with the time of day or the occasion.
Smaller decorative items, such as books, plants, vases and sculptures, play an essential role in layering by adding personality. Use items that reflect your style and arrange them in varied groupings to avoid visual clutter. Combine objects of different heights and materials to keep the look visually engaging.
The trend toward layering is fuelled by a desire for curated and inviting homes. Layering creates a warm, enveloping feel, perfect for unwinding in the evening. Soft textiles, plush rugs, and clever lighting cultivate a space that’s both sophisticated and welcoming. By layering, we add a unique and intentional touch to our homes, making the space feel authentic and lived in.
Layering doesn’t have to mean symmetrical placement. For example, group accessories in odd numbers or arrange items of varied heights together for a more natural and balanced look. You do not want your space to appear too orchestrated. A crowded palette or clashing patterns can overwhelm the senses too. Stick to a cohesive colour scheme and limit bold patterns to one or two focal points.
Layering is more than a passing trend. It’s a reflection of our desire for comfort, authenticity and creativity. In 2025, this trend will continue to evolve, becoming an enduring staple of thoughtful and personalised interior design. With an emphasis on sustainability and quality, layering encourages us to select items with intention, blending the old with the new, to create spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. So, whether you’re redecorating a single room or your entire home, layering offers a versatile, stylish way to make your space feel like a true reflection of who you are. Embrace this trend, play with textures and colours, and at the very least, during these colder months, enjoy an excuse to surround yourself with tactile blankets and cosy cushions!
Deck the walls with art:
enjoy more than just tinsel this Christmas
When do you put up your Christmas tree?
Traditionally, families waited until the start of Advent (the fourth Sunday before Christmas) to decorate their homes, but many households now do it much earlier. While the first weekend in December is still a popular time to unpack the baubles, an increasing number of us are declaring Christmas in November. What about you?
Decorating for Christmas is a wonderful tradition—a way to bring warmth and cheer into our homes as the days grow shorter and darker. We string up twinkling lights, hang our decorative stockings, and place our favourite festive figurines on shelves. But have you ever considered adding another layer of magic with festive artwork? Thinking beyond the traditional baubles and tinsel, seasonal artwork offers a beautiful way to personalise your home at Christmas, bringing a truly unique and joyful atmosphere.
More than just decoration, festive art can set the mood with a vibrant winter landscape or a whimsical Santa scene, summoning a sense of holiday cheer. Not only that, but these pieces create lasting memories, becoming a treasured part of your family's Christmas traditions for years to come.
But what would you choose? Snow-covered cottages and frosty landscapes, hares and foxes under a midnight sky, or whimsical illustrations with snowmen and lanterns— there’s so much choice. Whether you're drawn to traditional themes or something more modern, festive art can perfectly capture the spirit of the season, ensuring a touch of individuality in your Christmas décor.
At this time of preparation, families come together to unpack the decorations, remember past celebrations, and look ahead to the Christmas festivities to come. Changing the art on your walls can become another part of that ritual—putting away the pieces that have been with you all year and enjoying once again gifts from loved ones and purchases from the past, each bringing its own memories and emotions.
What’s the most important thing on your walls at Christmas?
Natalie Trembecki Gallery Correspondent
www.therosegallery.co.uk
Beans means
Beans on Toast; a nutritious meal for those on a budget, or a right earful of modern folk, depending on whether you get yours from a can, or from the stage!
No stranger to these parts, Beans on Toast has spent nearly two decades writing simple songs about complicated subjects, and he'll be playing lots of those tracks when he returns to MK11 in Kiln Farm on December 5.
The same week, Beans will release his new album, Wild Goose Chasers, the latest in a very long line of albums that are too numerous to list in the here and now.
Aside from the music, Beans has written children's books and coloured up festivals here, there and everywhere – last year he delivered a speech for the Campaign of Nuclear Disarmament from the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury!
Fans will be listening to a very different elpee from the Essex-based creative with the tongue twisting lyrical quips on Wild Goose Chasers
“These songs are about trading modern society for a wilder, more feral existence,” Beans said, “Songs that dig deep into the meaning of life and our purpose on Earth. They provide an exit strategy from a boring dystopia by gambling the flood for a fairy tale. This might sound pompous, but such is life, and such is the wild goose chase.”
Those close to him say the album is his 'most unadorned, unconventional, and daring release yet.'
folk fantastique!
Also at the venue in December
Go your own way, or go MK11 way for Fleetingwood Mac in the main room (Dec 6), while bar side BandE-Oke is back – a chance to join the live band for a spot of karaoke. If you want to bust out your best Meatloaf or Neil Diamond impression, the stage awaits, but there's no obligation to take the mic. If you'd rather rock up and enjoy the music making of others' while grabbing some grub, you can do that too – entry is free.
The Killaz UK do their Brandon Flowers thing (Dec 7) and a night of modern country classics will unravel with the Luke Combs tribute (Dec 19). Beer Never Broke Your Heart is one of his biggies. He's not wrong.
The Freddie & Queen Experience (Dec 20) will bring the regal feel – and if you want in for this extravaganza celebrating Mercury, May, Taylor and Deacon, jump to it; their last four shows here have sold-out.
Another mob who are usually accompanied by the 'sold-out' sign are MK's Mad Mods & Englishmen (Dec 21) who promise they will be getting Christmassy for this particular show out.
Madonna is given the tribute experience at the hands of Tasha Leaper (Dec 22) and she is bringing all the wardrobe changes and unparalleled attitude that Madge is known for. A Celebration and a half awaits. Swifties will be in for a pre-Crimbo stroll through the biggest pop players in recent times with So Taylor doing the business (Dec 23). Ready for it?
When you've spent a couple of days indoors with the folks, when you are sick and tired of festive reruns on the box, the games have broken and the sight of another Christmas pud turns you green, that's your cue to vacate the premises – take a trip to MK11 and get involved in the Live Jukebox Night (Dec 27) with house band Francis at the fore,
taking your requests and delivering bespoke renditions of anthems and party favourites. Boombastic's Daytime Disco will fill that weird gap between Christmas and New Year (Dec 28) with an afternoon session of some of the 80s, 90s and 00s greatest hits. Don't cruise your way into the new year, croon it with Mark Daniels, starring as Michael Buble
His show, cunningly titled Ultimate Buble (Dec 29), will deliver all of the charisma, powerful vocals and wit that you want. Last up before 2025 is Simply Floyd (Dec 30), yup with the Pink Floyd show –and they'll be delivering a special extended set.
> For tickets and more info on any of these shows, click to mkllkilnfarm.com
Beans on Toast - ready to deliver a fibre-rich set at MK11
Torus turn up the volume for Crimbo show
Torus visit Northampton for a precrimbo bash at The Lab (Dec 13) following a magnificent couple of months which has seen European dates, sell-out shows supporting Fu Manchu and the release of their debut, self-titled album, which we've covered every step of the way.
Word is spreading, and they've now picked up coverage on the radio stations that count, and amongst the national music media.
“We’ve been told by different people that putting out a full length 12 track album is quite a bold thing to do,” Alfie told me, “This was the most important thing to all of us in
our lives so far - we had to make our debut album count, so we really rolled up our sleeves and booked shows for the rest of the year and decided we need to get our album in people's hands.”
They made that ambition a reality.
And now?
“We’re loving every bit of it, we have done some amazing shows with the likes of Fu Manchu and South Arcade, and have done everything we’ve set out to do this year, which feels great,” he said.
“It was amazing to speak with Fu Manchu and to hear them singing our praises; having frontman Scott Hill watch our whole set in
'A hyper traditional new Christmas song' for you
Alex Wesley, frontman with Francis and all round busy music maker on the new city scene has a Christmas present for you all – the release of a brand new self-penned seasonal song... and you thought Mariah Carey had the market all sewn up. Think again!
'I Know That Christmas' is an easy play that could find itself as the backdrop to one of those cosy yuletide films that you snuggle up with while clutching a steaming hot chocolate, or your other half!
“The song is about being in love at Christmas,” Alex told me, “I have been in love at Christmas so it would be impossible for this to not pull from something that’s been in my life at points, but collectively it’s a work of fiction I guess.
“Who will it appeal to? Hopefully everyone,” he hopes, “It’s just a hyper traditional new Christmas song. It nods to so many things and references so many other things and Christmas songs. I guess it’s just my contribution to the period,” he smiled.
Bristol really made it for us. That was special, a dream come true!”
Alfie smiled.
Now, following shows with The Virginmarys and Skindred comes this date at The Lab. And as the new year comes into view...
“We are feeling more ready than ever, and don’t really wanna do anything else,” Alfie said of his music-making.
Weirdo riffers Predeceased will support the new city trio at The Lab date. This lot have toured with the mighty Quicksand, and the inimitable Henry Rollins is a fan. Couple of credible boasts, right there!
Fuzz-rock quartet Sun Child are also signed up with a sound said to 'blend ideas from the likes of Alice in Chains to Slowdive.'
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The track was recorded in Silverstone, at Afterglow Studios, with Alex Preston on bass and Kev Hickman behind the kit.
'I Know That Christmas' will be available on all the usual streaming platforms from December 1.
Proceeds from the release will be donated to Willen Hospice – so get downloading, peeps.
Festive fella Alex Wesley
Grade 2 start the Christmas countdown at The Craufurd Arms, bringing the raw power of old school punk to the new generation.
Signed to Hellcat Records (the label set up by Rancid's Tim Armstrong) is a nice place to be, and their second release on said label (but third album overall) is the eponymous 15-track delivery 'melding the uncompromising ethos of punk with the howl of contemporary injustice, personal identity and frustrations of Gen-Z youth.'
“Like everyone else, 2020 left us properly f*cked off,” says frontman Sid Ryan. “Yet we were able to channel every ounce of that despair into every second of this record."
The Isle of Wight natives will be seeing you on December 5.
The Woodentops (Dec 10) have celebrated their four decade anniversary this year, and yet, 2024 has been particularly fruitful: '... the most loaded with fresh releases, remixes, film, collaborations and general newness in any year since our beginning in 1984. Radio plays, video streams and digital audio action have been really satisfying, so we are rounding off with a week of UK dates to top it off,' the band said.
And in preparation, they've been cherry picking from their back catalogue, while also lining up a nice selection of the new recordings to share.
Broken Castles will be back on the stage before Santa shows his face, too: “In what has now become an annual Christmas tradition, we are limbering up to play The Craufurd with our rock and roll brothers in crime, Space Pistol,” explained drummer, Graham, “We also plan to debut some brand
Have yourselves a Lemmy little Christmas
new material for this show, ready to end the year with a sufficiently raucous bang!”
Join the musical pairing on Friday, December 13, unlucky for some, but not for you.
David Gedge Acoustic Duo (Dec 14) is a chance to see the founding member of The Wedding Present play some of the tracks from the band's extensive catalogue in an intimate setting.
David will be on acoustic guitar, with WP guitarist Rachel Wood on electric. Together they will deliver a different approach to the songs fans love.
Christmas comes early for this music fan, with the return of veteran doom slingers Eyehategod (Dec 16).
“Some people think Eyehategod is completely negative 24 hours a day,” said frontman Mike IX Williams, “And we
Kunt and the Gang - turning bleak subjects into raucous sing-along moments
definitely give off those negative vibes when we play. But really, this band was always meant to be fun for us and it still is fun. Back in the ‘90s, when I didn’t know if I was going to make it another day due to excessive chemical and alcohol abuse, I enjoyed life on the edge and living day by day...however this is better. I’m actually loving being alive.
“I hate to use the word positive, but I kind of think what we do is about clawing through the misery of life and making it to the next day,” he says. “And there are definitely exciting, positive moments along the way. Me and Jimmy always said when it stops being fun that’s when we’re done.”
Thankfully, the fun continues...
If you are easily offended, you'll want to sit this next one out. Those with a sense of humour who see things for what they are will probably have already bought their tickets for Kunt and the Gang's Craufurd Arms return (Dec 21), anyway.
Famous for their sweary protest song about Boris Johnson (remember now?) which hit the Top 5 in the UK Christmas chart in 2020, they followed that a year later with a second Boris tune which also did the business.
They've since delivered more establishment unfriendly singles which have all gone Top 20, and they've done so with no radio airplay, no PR company spinning things and with no marketing budget. Imagine that.
The band's Basildon-born 'songwriter, frontman and puppeteer in synthpop comedy act' pulled together a band to record the sweary debut album, Punk In Your Face, and more recently, they've pieced together the soundtrack to the controversial film, Shannon Matthews: The Musical... The Movie
If you've seen them live, you'll know what a smile inducing bunch they are. The Kunts' live show cheerfully rattles through their own ridiculously sweary protest songs alongside some of their best known dark
comedy hits, turning the bleakest of subjects into a raucous sing-along that you’ll almost certainly find yourself guiltily humming the next day.'
Hum them at work, by all means, but maybe don't get lyrical at your desk.
Last up for 2024, Motorheadache (Dec 29) play tribute to the much-missed Lemmy and his legendary band, with particular emphasis on the Fast Eddie Clarke era, but
not exclusively, so in addition to Bomber, Overkill and Ace of Spades, you'll get bangers like Victory or Die and Killed By Death The perfect way to escape the family after a Crimbo cooped up, wouldn't you say?
> To get mitts on tickets for shows, visit thecraufurdarms.com
Headcharge readies the new breed
The Headcharge promotion is also back at The Craufurd Arms (Dec 28). The new band showcase is “another opportunity for young creatives and artists to connect through each other's art, and for you to network with your favourite bands and people, in a safe space for everyone,” says organiser Alfie Glass. Here's who is on, and a little teaser for each.
Priest Strangler: Straight up, old school savage black metal in the vein of bands like Venom and early Celtic Frost
Blue Wall: Emotive and expansive driven rock with hints of Radiohead Daybreak: Commercial indie rock with gritty, raw tones and a melodic touch
Vandervalls: Super new indie soft rock players from Northampton
Within Reach: Uncompromising melodic screamo metallers – and Headcharge regulars might recognise lead guitarist Bailey Dopson from his other band, Scarper
Bones Ate Arfa: Brighton-based fuzzy
Royal Blood-esque riffs and straight up rock bangers
“Aside from that full programme of music, we will be working towards our next Zine, so if you've any feedback you would like to give us, or anything you want to say to the camera for that matter, please don't be shy,” Alfie urged, “We are doing this for you guys!”
> Tickets for the big bash are £6 in advance, and doors open at 6pm.
Eyehategod - positively brilliant doom noise as standard
Christmas Jazz Special with Olney Jazz Club favourites
Tuesday, December 5
8pm-10.30pm
Swing into the seasonal mood with live music from UK live jazz stalwarts Tad Newton’s Jazz Friends.
The line-up for December is big on the national as well as the local scene, including Richard Exall (clarinet and sax), Amy Roberts (sax, flute and clarinet), and a host of special guest artists, including Dave Browning on piano.
Richard and Amy regularly play as a duo and have been enthusiastically received in top jazz clubs both in the UK and across Europe. All in all, a top flight line-up of talented musicians again playing live locally here in Olney.
Entrance only £15.00 and drinks at affordable prices.
Call 01604 858549 for tickets and info email tadjazzfriends@gmail.com
Olney Jazz Club (Carlton House Club) High Street, Olney, MK46 4BB Live jazz – USE it or LOSE it
Mental Elf Festive Fun Run
Sunday, December 1
Join Mind Northamptonshire on their first Mental Elf 5K family fun run at Irchester Country Park, registration opens at 10.30am, run start time is 11.30am
On your marks: northamptonshiremind.org.uk
Dickens of a Christmas
Enjoy a meeting with Santa as part of a Victorian Christmas at MK Museum
Santa’s Grotto at MK Theatre
Sunday, December 1
(also Dec 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 & 15)
Join Father Christmas and his merry elves
Singing for the Brain
Monday, December 2
Singing for the Brain® from Alzheimer’s Society uses singing to bring people
Walk & Talk: Winter Tree ID
Tuesday, December 3
As trees are most commonly identified by their leaves, this beginners session as part of National Tree Week, will demonstrate other ways to identify trees in your local parks. Discover different types of bark and tree profiles to become a more observant naturalist.
Suitable for adults only
Barking: theparkstrust.com/events
Mediaeval Baebes
Tuesday, December 3
Celebrating the festive season, ‘The Ceremony’ will bring a remarkable evening of joyous music, dance and theatre. Enjoy harmonious vocals accompanied by a truly unique collection of exotic and period instruments; carols, traditional folksongs and innovative settings of ancient romantic poetry. Lighting of the chalice: stables.org
The Puppini Sisters
Wednesday, December 4, 8pm
The neo-burlesque pioneers mark their 20th anniversary by hitting the gig circuit some more, which brings them back to Wavendon. Did we mention their fans include HM King Charles and Michael Buble? True.
Jeepers Creepers: stables.org
WI Festive Coffee Morning
Friday, December 6, 10am – midday
Join friends for a pre Christmas gettogether, enjoy a coffee with a mince pie or homemade WI cake, at WI House, 71 Park View, Moulton, Northampton, NN3 7UZ, £4. All are welcome. Bring your used postage stamps. First class: northamptonshire.thewi.org.uk
world class music & entertainment
December highlights
Cats in Space
Wednesday 11 December, 8pm
Imagine a heady mix of Queen, ELO, Elton John and all things 70s… then you have Cats in Space – a band brimming with majestic songs, boasting soaring vocal harmonies, power chord guitars, thundering drums and bass as well as huge, symphonic keyboards.
Dankworth Family
Christmas Show
Saturday 14 December, 8pm
Started by the legendary Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo more than 50 years ago, this seasonal celebration led by Alec Dankworth features a host of family, friends and special guests. Much-loved vocalist Ian Shaw will be presenting the evening.
original, A Christmas Tail is the perfect festive treat for the whole family to enjoy. Fusing comedy, circus and puppetry, and interwoven with music and songs, this is one tail-wagging adventure you and your children won’t forget in a hurry!
been at the forefront of the UK Americana, folk and country music scenes since 2015. Tonight, they present an intimate evening of festive songs, stories as the band perform seasonal favourites as well as their own material.
Remember to take your stamps to the WI Festive Coffee Morning in Northampton – December 6
20 years and counting – The Puppini Sisters visit the new city on December 4
Bingo Loco Northampton
Friday, December 6, 6pm
Prepare for a night of bingo madness with hilarious hosts, DJs delivering the best of 90s and 00s music, confetti showers, dances offs, lip sync battles and the chance to bag big prizes – from international holidays to lawnmowers! Full house: theroadmender.com
Stantonbury Theatre 50th Anniversary
Friday, December 6
Celebrate the theatre’s half century with guests including Carabosse Theatre Company, Company MK, The Living Archive Band, Pepper’s Ghost Theatre Company, Milton Keynes Theatre of Comedy & Wolverton Gilbert & Sullivan Society. Jacqui Dankworth will headline. Birthday wishes: stantonburytheatre.co.uk
Northampton Art Society’s 107th exhibition
Saturday, December 7 (until Feb 2025)
Featuring work by professional and celebrated local artists, this year’s exhibition will also include pieces by nonsociety members which bring an exciting edge to an already popular show, and adds to the rich variety of styles and media from the cream of Northamptonshire artists. Making a splash: Visit the Museum & Art Gallery on Guildhall Road.
Kickin’ It Country
Saturday, December 7, 8pm
A rip roaring Nash bash of Country Anthems in a seasonal ho ho hoedown special!
Country goes Christmassy: theroadmender.com
Carols at the Cathedral
Sunday, December 8, 2pm
Enjoy an afternoon of live performances, storytelling, hot drinks and sweet treats, at the Tree Cathedral in Newlands. Tree-mendous fun:
Antiques Centre Building 1, The Royal Ordnance Depot, Weedon Bec, NN7 4PS
Comedian Alfie Brown – tells us ‘Life is beautiful’ – December 8
Woburn Sands Band
Sunday, December 8, 4pm
The Christmas Concert will include arrangements of some of our best-loved seasonal melodies.
Big puff: stables.org
Alfie Brown:
Open Hearted Human Enquiry
Sunday, December 8, 8pm
Ed Byrne
Thursday, December 12
His TV career is now in its third decade, and Ed is still bringing the funnies before avid live audiences, and the leading laugh specialist is back with his Tragedy Plus Time. Show us the funnies: thestables.org
Torus & Predeceased
Friday, December 13
Upcoming Events
Santa Dash 15 December
Willen Hospice
The award-winning comedian separates his failures from his misfortunes, and arrives at the conclusion that ‘life is beautiful.’
Captivating and subversive: royalandderngate.co.uk
Wolverton Light Orchestra –Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 8, 7.30pm
WLO will be joined by the Wolverton Gilbert and Sullivan Society for an evening of Christmas favourites, popular classics, and of course, the audience carols!
On song: stantonburytheatre.co.uk
The Comedy Crate
Thursday, December 12, 8pm
Get the funnies with Nathan Caton, Jessica Fostekew, Kev Mud and Ben Briggs, at The Charles Bradlaugh in Northampton. Gis a smile: thecomedycrate.com
The Milton Keynes trio sold out The Lab in 2023, and look likely to do it again with their return visit, which follows the release of their self-titled debut album. When It Comes: sbdpromotions.com
The Dankworth
Family Christmas Show
Saturday, December 14
Started by Sir John Dankworth and Dame Cleo more than 50 years ago, this seasonal celebration led by Alec Dankworth features a host of family, friends and special guests, including Kevin Whately, Lorna Dallas, Peter Fisher, Jacqui Dankworth, Emily Dankworth and The Dankworth Family Christmas Band. Jazz up your weekend: stables.org
Christmas with the Chorale
Saturday, December 14, 5pm
Celebrate Christmas with MK Chorale at St Mary & St Giles, Stony Stratford. Enjoy a mince pie and hear them sing the uplifting John Rutter’s Gloria with a fabulous brass and percussion ensemble accompaniment. Mark Jordan - conductor Alex Aitken - organ
Tickets available now from www.ticketsource.co.uk/mkchorale or scan the QR code below or via www.mkchorale.org.uk
Run for a good ‘Claus’ and join hundreds of Santas for a ‘dash’, walk or jog around Willen’s North Lake.
Christmas Grotto Willen Hospice 13 - 15 & 20 - 22
December
Meet Santa in his festive grotto in the tranquil Hospice gardens. Ideal for any Christmas lovers looking for a quieter experience. Open to all ages.
Christmas Tree Collection
3 - 5 January 2025
Book your collection now!
The Big Willen Hospice Quiz, The Ridgeway Centre, Thursday 6 February 2025
Test your general knowledge at one of MK’s biggest quiz nights!
Double your donation to Willen Hospice this December
Scan the QR code >> willen-hospice.org.uk
Follow us on Socials: willen-hospice
Carols in the Cathedral at the Tree Cathedral in Newlands, Milton Keynes
David Gedge Acoustic Duo
Saturday, December 14
An hour long set of Wedding Present songs delivered in the intimate confines of The Craufurd Arms.
Brassneck: thecraufurdarms.com
Blackpit Christmas Comedy Night
Saturday, December 14
Comedy stars Angel Barnes, Tom Ward and Olaf Falafel bring the funnies at Blackpit Brewery, situated between Silverstone & Stowe. Have you heard the one about...: blackpitbrewery.co.uk
Carol Service
Sunday, December 15, 6pm
All welcome at All Saints Church in Lathbury for a traditional sing song.
Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band
Sunday, December 15, 8pm
To mark the 40th anniversary of their artistic relationship, Maddy and The Carnival Band return to Wavendon for a celebration but also a farewell, the last time they will undertake such an outing. Expect a mix of ancient and modern instruments and rich vocal harmonyand plenty of humour.
I Saw Three Ships: stables.org
Singing for the Brain
Monday, December 16
Singing for the Brain® from Alzheimer’s Society uses singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity, at Heron’s Lodge Guide Centre in Loughton Lodge, morning and afternoon sessions available.
For more information: Contact 01908 232612 or email miltonkeynes@alzheimers.org.uk
Eyehategod & Goatwhore
Monday, December 16
Stalwart sludge metallers Eyehategod make a very welcome return to Wolverton venue
The Craufurd Arms following a ferocious show out in 2023. It will be noisy, it will be hot, it will sell out.
High Risk Trigger: thecraufurdarms.com
Northampton Philharmonic Choir
A Christmas Celebration
Music & Carols for Choir and Audience
Wednesday, 18 December, 7pm
St Michael’s & All Angels, Perry Street, Northampton, NN1 4HL
Tickets (including programme and interval refreshment):
Individual: £13, U16: £6 Family: £32
Available online via the website or scan the QR code (no booking fee) or on the door northamptonphilharmonicchoir.co.uk
The Wandering Hearts: Driving Home For Christmas
Thursday, December 19, 8pm
A three-piece vocal harmony collective delivering an evening of festive songs, stories and laughter in a jolly send off to 2024. Wild Silence: stables.org
Crib service
Tuesday, December 24, 5pm
A family service with carols, Christmas songs and readings all celebrating the Nativity and birth of Jesus.
Flock together: The Church of St Peter and St Paul, Newport Pagnell
Christmas Day
Wednesday, December 25
Merry Christmas from all of us at Pulse to all of you and your friends and family!
Angela Barnes, Olaf Falafel and Tom Ward – Blackpit Christmas Comedy Night – December 14
Film Reviews
GLADIATOR II
FILM OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4/5
Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II struts back into ancient Rome with all the pomp and spectacle you’d expect, handing the baton to Paul Mescal as Lucius, the nowadult nephew of Commodus. The stakes are high, and thankfully, Mescal’s brooding yet captivating performance shoulders the weight. Lucius battles both literal and metaphorical demons, bringing depth to a story riddled with themes of revenge, legacy, and redemption.
Scott proves his mastery of epic filmmaking, crafting grand battles drenched in sweat, blood, and cinematic beauty. The Colosseum roars with CGI grandeur that mostly avoids feeling artificial, while Hans Zimmer’s triumphant score revives the pulse of the original and adds new emotional resonance.
But the film stumbles in quieter moments. Supporting characters, often reduced to caricatures, lack the intrigue needed to anchor subplots. The
Star Rating: 4/5
Andrea Arnold’s Bird is a quiet powerhouse, a deeply human exploration of loneliness and resilience. Nykiya Adams stars as Bailey, a young woman balancing the weight of her past with the grind of city life. Adams is magnetic, her silences louder than words, while Arnold’s intimate direction strips back the barriers between viewer and character. Cinematographer Robbie Ryan, Arnold’s longtime collaborator, captures the urban landscape in its gritty splendour, finding beauty in bleakness. The film flits between tender moments and piercing despair, often in the same breath. The pacing meanders at times, but its raw emotional depth makes up for narrative hiccups. Arnold weaves a story of survival with piercing sincerity, crafting a bittersweet reminder of human connection in a disconnected world. ✪
Star Rating: 3/5
Paddington Bear returns in Paddington in Peru, delivering another heartwarming and hilarious adventure. This time, the lovable bear travels to his homeland, exploring themes of family and belonging. Ben Whishaw’s voice work remains delightfully charming, and Peru’s vibrant landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for Paddington’s antics. The story treads slightly familiar ground, but it’s packed with heartfelt moments and plenty of laugh-out-loud humour. While the absence of some returning cast members is felt, Olivia Colman’s eccentric new character adds fresh energy and fun. Joyous, witty, and brimming with heart, this is classic Paddington at its best. A nostalgic, feel-good treat that’s sure to delight audiences of all ages. Bring tissues – and marmalade. ✪
second act sags with repetitive politicking, though it’s redeemed by a finale that deftly balances nostalgia with fresh emotional stakes.
Gladiator II struggles to escape its predecessor’s shadow, but it finds moments of brilliance. The screenplay dances with familiar beats yet spins them into fresh political and personal stakes. While not flawless, the film is a compelling reminder of Scott’s talent for uniting historical drama with blockbuster spectacle. It’s a worthy successor that lands its punches, if not every swing of the sword.
Mescal’s transformation from a boy in awe of Maximus to a man forging his own path mirrors the film’s bold attempt to bridge legacy and innovation. This is no pale imitation of a classic; it’s an imperfect yet thrilling gladiatorial return. storytelling. ✪
Star Rating: 3/5
Conclave takes us into the Vatican’s shadowy corridors during a papal election, where power plays and morality collide. Ralph Fiennes commands attention as Cardinal Lawrence, portraying his internal battle with faith and ambition with nuance. Edward Berger’s direction builds palpable tension as alliances shift and secrets unfold. While the setup is rich with potential, the screenplay misses chances to delve deeper into the church’s complex politics. Supporting characters, aside from Stanley Tucci’s intriguing role, lack depth, making the stakes feel less urgent. The film’s visual style is restrained, favouring solemnity over spectacle, which suits the material but doesn’t always captivate. Though flawed, Conclave is a solid drama for those intrigued by power struggles and ethical dilemmas. It entertains, but it could have achieved so much more with sharper storytelling. ✪
Star Rating: 3/5
Malcolm Washington’s The Piano Lesson adapts August Wilson’s play with heart, though it doesn’t fully escape its stage roots. Danielle Deadwyler shines as Berniece, a woman guarding her family’s legacy while grappling with her future. Her restrained yet powerful performance anchors the film, delivering its emotional core. The Depression-era setting is beautifully realised, with period details enhancing the story’s sense of history. However, the pacing stumbles, and some scenes feel overly theatrical, making the film feel constrained by its origins. While the dialogue and themes resonate, the adaptation struggles to feel truly cinematic. It’s a solid effort with emotional heft, but it stops just short of greatness. ✪
‘It’s a spectacle
– and theatre needs a spectacle’
Take a classic, fabulously festive ballet, move it to the Cuban capital and you arrive at Nutcracker in Havana, a celebration of joy, life, love and family – the perfect way to introduce a new year of entertainment at Milton Keynes Theatre.
Tchaikovsky’s classic has been given a new spin thanks to the creativity of dance superstar Carlos Acosta, whose company, Acosta Danza have retained the classic story of a young girl transported to a magic world, while incorporating the culture, history and music of Carlos’ home country of Cuba.
A world-renowned dancer who has performed with companies across the globe including 17 years with The Royal Ballet, Carlos has choreographed previous productions including Carmen and Don Quixote.
“I have performed so many versions of The Nutcracker and I think that putting it in Havana creates a production which is totally different from any other production out there,” Carlos says.
“This is not going to be a European feel where you are in a Victorian mansion and everything is period, this is much more Cuba now.”
“We started to celebrate Christmas from the coming to the island of Pope John Paul II in 1998 because before that Christmas was banned.”
And the production also touches on the Cuban diaspora, the thousands of people who fled the island into exile.
“The magician, the Drosselmeyer character, is the uncle who left for Miami 30 years ago and has now returned to Havana with lots of presents and then he brings this kind of magic with him.”
The ballet also has new orchestration of the classic Tchaikovsky score by Cuban composer Pepe Gavilondo.
“When we started to work on the show, I started to play in my mind that we could re-work the score to incorporate Cuban rhythms,” explains Carlos. “That was going to be a significant change because the audience will hear Nutcracker and Tchaikovsky in a completely different light with conga rhythms, guaracha, son - the music of Havana.”
The Nutcracker is set amid a family party on Christmas Eve and yet as a child growing up in Havana, Carlos was unable to take part in such festivities.
“I wanted to give the Cuban people the Christmas they never had,” says Carlos.
When it comes to putting bottoms on seats for this fiery new re-imagining, he naturally wants you there:
“I hope everyone will come. I hope this production pulls from different sectors of the population, from the Latin world, the classical world, the contemporary world, because it’s a melting pot of everything.
Nutcracker in Havana is a co-production between Norwich Theatre and Acosta Danza’s production partner Valid Productions.
“At its heart it is The Nutcracker story that you can expect with all of the magic and joy that goes with that,” says Stephen Crocker, Norwich Theatre Chief Executive and Creative Director.
“It is balletic at its core and it’s pushing the boundaries of ballet by bringing that Cuban feel into it. I’ve joked it’s the only Nutcracker I know where the corps de ballet becomes a conga line. It has a sense of fun and it’s also a spectacle – and theatre needs spectacle.
“It’s an intensely personal show to Carlos and it has been joyous to help him realise that,” Stephen added, “It’s a special moment for somebody whose career has been so ensconced in ballet and who has danced so many Nutcrackers in his life, and with him coming from Cuba there is real heart to this show.”
> Nutcracker in Havana plays at MK Theatre on Friday, January 17 and Saturday, January 18.
To book tickets visit atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
“There’s a lot of humour as well. It is different but it still does what The Nutcracker is supposed to do which is fun and warm, it’s just a show about family and friends.” <<
Dawn Natalie
View from the Far Kerb
Hard Times
Dickens wrote a novel, Hard Times, (more properly known as, Hard Times: For These times), which was originally serialised in, Household Words over a period of twenty weeks. Not only was Dickens the editor of the publication; he owned 50% of the weekly magazine, making him the largest single shareholder, giving him full editorial control.
For readers of Pulse who have not read Hard Times, I shall refrain from writing anything that spoils it. Suffice it to say, it is a gritty story covering much about the difficulties in the lives of many characters within the text.
Dickens was known for his commentary upon the inequities of society during his lifetime. Much of what he perceived was to be found in many of his works. However, I doubt he could have anticipated the hard times experienced by many at this time of the year! Yes, he wrote A Christmas Carol, and it was very moralistic and carried an entertaining but admonishing tone, but did he foresee the difficulty and pain suffered by shoppers as they search for the ideal present?
Probably not. Hard Times is more about dark mills in t’north than brightly illuminated malls playing music to enhance the shopping experience. Misery in both cases.
Finding the right present may be an onerous task, but the reward of a child’s face, radiating pure happiness, is worth the pain. Generally, ideas for wonderful gifts abound, although it can feel as if the whole world is conspiring
to thwart any attempts to purchase something that will be valued. Nevertheless, once a search is started, it may lead to worthwhile results.
Unless you are me. Every year, my idea of Christmas shopping is to bury my head in the ground and ignore the colours, lights and sounds that herald the approach of the Christmas and the holiday period. Then it reaches a point where I can no longer ignore what is coming because I need to arrange what days I am working, or otherwise. Of course, that isn’t the same as properly acknowledging a need to at least buy my wife a present of some sort. One with nice wrapping. Ooo, that means buying wrapping paper. And sticky tape. Maybe a pair of scissors, too, because I have no idea where the pair I used last year went after I put them away, very carefully
Christmas Eve is not the time to buy presents. It is something I tell myself every year. In the past, I have been caught out by 24th December falling on a Sunday – hampering my shopping. Regardless, lastminute shopping is not the way forward, and I most certainly will not be doing it this year.
Looking at the calendar, I see Christmas Eve falls on a Tuesday this year. No matter, I will not weaken. There will be no last-day, panicked, mad dash around the shops for me. It never goes well and has, without fail, always gone wrong and become the Hard Times that Dickens wrote about.
Phil O’Hara
QUICK CROSSWORD
Flavour of the Times - Astrology offers insight into what may unfold in the coming months and years. This month could bring the first signs of progress in many lives. The upbeat tone begins with the new moon in Sagittarius on the 1st, aligning favourably with Mars, giving us all a lift. Pluto entering Aquarius and Saturn going direct mark significant changes, heralding new ideas and ways of living. While these shifts may not yet be tangible, actions taken now hold great potential. The past is behind; it’s time to move forward.
SAGITTARIUS
November 23 – December 22
The new moon in your sign on the 1st gives your spirits a real boost. It’s vibrant and uplifting, sparking optimism, letting you dare to dream once more. The month looks promising, and even the full moon in Gemini won’t rattle you. But don’t get carried away—there may still be lingering shadows of your past that need attention. Clear those corners as brighter days await!
CAPRICORN
December 23 – January 20
Since the financial crash of 2008, you’ve faced harsh lessons and shouldered quite the burden. Now, though this may now be lifting, new challenges await. These will call for a fresh approach, so gently shift gears and recalibrate for December’s fresh start. Embrace the opportunity to realign your focus and let a lighter, brighter path lead you forward.
AQUARIUS
January 21 – February 19
Pluto has firmly settled in your sign for over 20 years, so it’s time to embrace its potential and discover where it may lead you. While you take pride in your radical views and originality, you can also resist change. Pluto will challenge this, urging changes in your mindset and behaviour. Stay open, as transformation will bring fresh growth and unexpected opportunities.
PISCES
February 20 – March 20
The foggy confusion you’ve been living under may lift now as Saturn resumes forward motion from our earthly perspective. It’s a good time to make practical plans, with the new moon in Sagittarius boosting your motivation and helping you shake off sluggishness. The full moon on the 15th brings excitement and energy—a perfect excuse to celebrate and enjoy the moment!
Your Own astrological Forecast
You are bound to be affected personally by some, if not all, of the massive changes taking place this year. Not everyone will be equally affected on a personal level, but you will certainly feel it if you are an Aquarius, Leo, Scorpio, or Taurus.
ARIES
March 21 – April 20
The month begins with a burst of positive energy. Sagittarius energy aligns well with you, and the new moon in that sign, combined with a harmonious Mars in Leo, should provide plenty of fiery energy to get things moving. If it doesn’t, consider what might still be holding you back. Something from the past may still linger, but avoid dwelling on it too much—focus forward!
TAURUS
April 21 – May 21
The month begins with a burst of positive energy. Sagittarius energy aligns well with you, and the new moon in that sign, combined with a harmonious Mars in Leo, should provide plenty of fiery energy to get things moving. If it doesn’t, consider what might still be holding you back. Something from the past may still linger, but avoid dwelling on it too much—focus forward!
GEMINI
May 22 – June 21
Your outgoing nature will thrive under the sociable influence of the Sagittarius new moon. It’s energetic and festive, so Xmas parties should shine! Alternatively, you might prefer to escape it all with a flight to somewhere far away. Either way, this month looks far brighter than the last, as you’re finally able to move past recent challenges and embrace lighter, happier days.
CANCER
June 22 – July 23
Family and close ones may place tricky demands on you as Venus moves awkwardly through Capricorn. Juggling too many responsibilities could leave you feeling resentful. Avoid letting this fester—express your feelings calmly and gently. Remember, your toughness lies in your caring nature, so set boundaries with kindness while keeping your inner peace intact.
An astrological reading of your birth chart can help you understand how these changes might affect you. To really understand what they mean for you during 2024, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation with me. This is completely specific to you and your life. It will illuminate many things that you may not have
LEO
July 24 – August 23
Mars in your sign might spark a desire to show off—or even stir conflict! The new moon adds extra energy to this, so watch how forcefully you present yourself. Channel this energy into tackling tasks before Xmas, ensuring you’re free to celebrate freely at social events. The full moon in Gemini mid-month promises lively parties—an ideal time to unwind and enjoy the festive cheer!
VIRGO
August 24 – September 23
Getting your house in order—literally or metaphorically—might seem like a great idea this month, and you’ll have the energy to accomplish plenty. However, lighten up, or you might miss chances to relax and enjoy yourself. Don’t be a party pooper this Xmas! The full moon in Gemini on the 15th could shine a light on this—so tread carefully. Have fun; you know you want to!
LIBRA
September 24 – October 23
Relationships may seem a little austere this month as Venus trudges through Capricorn, but romance isn’t always smooth. Real love deepens through moments of hardship, teaching resilience and strengthening bonds. These times of difficulty are what make the gentler, more romantic moments all the sweeter—so trust the process and embrace the journey.
SCORPIO
October 24 – November 22
A long period of rethinking lies ahead, so this month’s optimistic energy is perfect for reflecting on your life as it stands. You’ve reached the end of a challenging 20-year phase, and if you’ve yet to redefine your sense of self, now’s the time to get real about it. Pluto’s influence could feel intense over the next few years. Dig deep and embrace transformation!
considered up to now, and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the yearMy prices for chart readings remain the same as they have been for the past five years: starting at £67 for an hour on Zoom or Skype. Visit www.astroguidance.co.uk for more details and to book a session. You can also text or WhatsApp me
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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.
