Issuu

32,000

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Issue 172 | February 2024

County-wide news, views and stories

The magazine at the heart of Milton Keynes and Bucks

What’s going on in your local area

CONTENTS

From the

Editor

FEBRUARY 2024

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

here’s plenty going on this month. If you haven’t watched or taken part in the Olney Pancake Race, it’s surely time you did! Put Tuesday 13 February in your diary for a pre-race pancake breakfast. The town’s ladies will be ‘flipping’ fantastic and you can enjoy stalls, music, the grand raffle and children’s races in the Market Place. 2024 is a leap year, so traditionally ladies can propose to their partners. If you’re planning to ‘pop the question’ on Valentine’s Day our ‘Bride Guide’ is essential reading. There’s something for everyone involved in making the happy day a perfect one. And remember, the Willen Hospice Bridal Boutique offers beautiful, preloved wedding dresses and accessories. With children at home for half term this month, there are plenty of ideas to keep them entertained in our ‘What’s On’ section. Try walking in Roman footsteps or checking out our feathered friends.

22 4

NEWS

PROFILE

HISTORY

FEATURE: RSPCA

LEGAL

PULSE PICS

BRIDE GUIDE

BEAUTY

Are you a cat lover? The RSPCA Milton Keynes and North Bucks want you to know about the increasing number of homeless cats and kittens. Last year over 700 needed adoptions. One way you can help is by being sure to neuter your cats to reduce the number of unwanted kittens on our streets.

FASHION

FOOD & DRINK

HOME & GARDEN

Have fun this February!

MK MAYOR

MUSIC

THEATRE

WHAT’S ON

FILMS

YOUR STARS

For the adults there’s the brand new musical celebrating Stock Aitken Waterman (SAW) – ‘I should be so lucky’ – at Milton Keynes Theatre in early March. Enjoy over 30 famous SAW songs delivered in a completely new way. Noughties favourites, The Zutons, are back this month too and you can enjoy some new material at MK11 on the 15th. If your business deserves some recognition now’s the time to enter this year’s SME awards, led by the Bedfordshire Chamber. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your achievements and possibly go to the National Awards.

Kerry

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.

The deadline for advertising in the next edition of Pulse Magazine is MONDAY FRIDAY 9TH 8THFEBRUARY FEBRUARY Published by Lunar Publishing Limited MK Pulse cannot take responsibility for the content of the advertisements, editorial or the services provided by the advertisers. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. All artwork is accepted on condition that permission has been given for use in MK Pulse. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. ©MK Pulse

MK Pulse is distributed door to door to 32,000 homes and businesses in: Aspley Guise, Aspley Heath, Blakelands, 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.

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

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LOCAL NEWS

he Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce has announced its new role as the primary organiser of the SME Bedfordshire Business Awards, previously a key sponsor of the event. This development marks a significant milestone for the Chamber and adds a notable event to its annual calendar. The decision to lead the awards stems from the Chamber’s commitment to offering local businesses a platform for recognition and celebration of their achievements. The initiative aims to foster closer engagement with businesses entering the awards, while also enhancing the visibility of entrants, sponsors and winners through strategic PR and marketing efforts. Justin Richardson, Chief Executive of the Chamber, highlighted the importance of the awards in recognising the diverse and innovative businesses in Bedfordshire, many of which are yet to gain widespread recognition. He emphasised that the awards are an excellent opportunity

Bedfordshire Chamber leads SME awards to spotlight local business achievements In a significant move for the local business community, the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce takes the lead in organizing this year’s SME Bedfordshire Business Awards, promising enhanced recognition and opportunities for innovative local businesses.

‘The awards are an excellent opportunity for Bedfordshire businesses to showcase their achievements’

for Bedfordshire businesses to showcase their achievements. Participation in the SME Bedfordshire Business Awards also opens the possibility for

businesses to advance to the SME National Business Awards Final later in the year, offering further opportunities for regional

and national recognition. The launch event for the awards took place on 17th January at The Pavilion in Luton, providing attendees with valuable tips on preparing strong award entries to maximise their chances of success. Further details about the award categories and entry process can be accessed by scanning the provided code. This initiative by the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce is set to enhance the profile of local businesses and celebrate their successes in a more impactful way.

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February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile. Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to risk their windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the road, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have

any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems. When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money. The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window

once the unit has failed. Stephen commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”. For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www.cloudy2clear.com

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Sportage & Soul EV: £1,500 towards your PCP Finance Deposit Contribution on Sportage (Excluding PHEV models) or Soul EV or EV6 & Niro EV: £1,000 towards your PCP Finance Deposit Contribution on EV6 and Niro EV. Offer available between 14.12.2023 and 01.4.2024. Retail Sales only. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle. Kia reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time without prior notice. Finance T&Cs apply. Subject to status. 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Kia Finance RH2 9AQ. 7 year / 100,000 mile manufacturer’s warranty. 2 years free servicing offer available on EV9, EV6, Niro EV, Soul EV or Sportage orders placed in the United Kingdom between 14.12.2023 and 29.02.2024. Only eligible on an annual mileage of up to 10,000 miles. Kia Charge Plus: Free 12 month Kia Charge Plus offer available on EV6, Niro EV, Soul EV or EV9 orders placed in the United Kingdom between 14.12.2023 and 01.04.2024. Retail Sales only. Kia UK Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference number 731457 for credit broking and is a credit broker and not a lender. Kia UK Limited introduces customers to its appointed dealers who act as credit brokers in their own right and who may introduce customers to Hyundai Capital UK Limited, trading as Kia Finance, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference number 581186 as a lender. Our appointed dealers will typically receive a fixed fee from Kia Finance for this introduction. However, the amount of commission received by a dealer does not impact the amount paid by a customer under the credit agreement. Kia UK Ltd is registered in England & Wales No: 4415807. Registered Office: Walton Green, Walton-On-Thames, Surrey, KT12 1FJ.

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PROFILE

Raise Your Smile with Implant Treatment at Northlight Dental

issing and failing teeth can be the source of considerable anxiety. Hiding your smile because of visible gaps or not being able to enjoy the foods you love can be so disheartening. Those with poorly fitting and uncomfortable dentures often report a dramatic drop in their general quality of life. Dental implants have revolutionised the replacement of missing teeth, offering solutions that are as natural as possible. Dr Sunil Passan of Northlight Dental addresses commonly asked questions for those considering implant treatment.

But Do Implants Last? With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last several decades. Our highly experienced dentists have placed over 3000 dental implants over the last 10 years, with an over 97% success rate.

What is a Dental Implant? Essentially, a dental implant is a small sturdy, titanium post that acts as the root would for a natural tooth. It is placed in the jawbone beneath the gum line, providing a base for a replacement tooth or teeth. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation. This not only allows the implant to hold a replacement tooth or bridge firmly in place, but also helps maintain the jawbone's shape and density. The result is a durable and long-lasting solution that can help restore function and aesthetics making eating, speaking, and smiling feel completely natural again.

Why Choose Northlight? We believe in a personalised treatment and a ‘One Size Fits One’ approach. During the initial consultation, we will discuss any specific needs. Following a thorough examination, a detailed treatment plan is provided outlining the procedures required, timelines, and costs. At Northlight Dental, we're not just about restoring teeth; we are about restoring confidence. We have commitment to excellence and a passion for changing lives using state of the art treatments.

How a dental implant works

This All Sounds Expensive Everyone deserves access to quality dental care. That's why we offer flexible financing options. Using our interest free payment plan, patients can get the treatment they want from as little as £119 per month, that’s less than the cost of a latte per day!

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Is the Treatment Painful? In the majority of cases, having a dental implant placed is much easier than you think. In fact most patients following the procedure report that having the tooth removed was worse! For a simple case, the procedure can take less than half an hour and is carried out under local anaesthetic, usually requiring minimal pain relief afterwards. Patients normally return to work the next day.

Take the First Step with A Free Video Consultation We understand that often the first step on any journey is the hardest. Dr Passan is available for a free video consultation to discuss your dental concerns and how we can help. Just use the QR code to book an appointment for an informal chat. Alternatively, call our friendly Dr Sunil Passan and knowledgeable team on 01908 584461 to find out more and schedule a consultation at our beautiful practice in Aspley Guise. We offer How Long Before I Get a Tooth? evening and weekend Treatment usually takes around four months. appointments Where more advanced procedures are for those with a required, then it may take a little longer. busy schedule. In some cases, ‘immediate smile’ treatment may even be an option. This is where the failing Start Raising Your tooth or teeth are removed, and a new implant Smile Today! tooth is fitted the same day.

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LOCAL HISTORY

‘Bring out your dead’ was the chilling call Sammy Jones takes a look at the dark days of the plague and how it struck hard in this area...

he Covid pandemic was traumatic, divisive and incredibly difficult to navigate, and that was despite all of the modern day tools at our disposal, and the supposed ease of information dissemination. But with no quick means of sharing information, no real understanding of how it was spread, and a one in three prognosis of death, the plagues which devastated communities centuries ago would have been utterly terrifying. 12

Being bled with leeches was a common treatment, but certainly didn’t help symptoms, and while children were encouraged to smoke to keep the sickness at bay, as we now know, that only creates its own issues. 1666 wasn't only a stand-out year in the history books for the Great Fire of London. It was also the time of the most catastrophic plague in the capital for more than three hundred years; not since the Black Death of 1348 had such devastation been felt. Like so many of our own ills, this episode of the bubonic plague – which began in 1665 - didn’t discriminate. The lymph nodes in the armpits, groin and neck were attacked, with buboes, or swellings, quickly presenting themselves. Headaches, fever and vomiting would also affect the afflicted.

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

The statistics made for scary reading; sufferers had a 30% chance of dying in just two weeks. When someone was infected, whole families were locked in the home together, which was marked with a red cross to make everyone aware that illness had arrived. It was an attempt to prevent the disease spreading further, but was a death sentence for the entire family as person to person transmission was a breeze and they were left to perish. Under the cover of darkness, the cry of ‘Bring out your dead’ was the call, and corpses were loaded onto carts for disposal in so-called plague pits. There was panic on the streets of London, and those who could, fled to what they presumed were safer areas – King Charles II

LOCAL HISTORY

left for Oxford, accompanied by his courtiers, and many doctors, merchants and lawyers also deserted the sick city, leaving the poorest in situ to take their chances. Town Councillors stayed too, to enforce orders, while watchmen locked and kept watch over infected houses. Just as they did during our own pandemic, parish officials distributed food and provided aid. All trade with infected towns ceased, and business with other countries was paused, which in turn led to mass job losses. At its height, in one week in London more than 31,000 lost their lives. People believed the plague was spread by felines and canines and the slaughter of dogs and cats was ordered by the Lord Mayor of London. It has been estimated that 40,000 dogs and a staggering 200,000 cats were slaughtered under orders. With their foes being eliminated, rats - who hosted the plague carrying fleas - thrived. They were helped further by very low levels of personal hygiene and cleanliness, open sewers and filthy rivers, and houses which were made of wood and easy to traverse. In a futile bid to wipe out the plague, bonfires burned in the streets to purify the air, which of course made no impact. Inevitably, the plague came to these parts. A report from August 1666 said that only several hundred people, approximately half of the town’s population, were left in Newport Pagnell. Initially children had fared particularly badly, but from thereafter adults bore the brunt, with more female losses than men. Burials had risen from an average of 37 in 1665 to 697 in 1666. That July, as temperatures increased, so too did losses, 257 deaths were registered, with the victims believed to be laid to rest on Bury Field. With no time to prepare coffins (indeed many of those makers were probably lost to the indiscriminate disease too), and keen to prevent further spread, the deceased would have been buried in simple shrouds, and with little ceremony. Even after the plague was in remission, recovery in the town which had been ravaged

Statement of burials in Newport Pagnell In 1665 - 37 In 1666 ( January to May) - 35 June – 102 July – 257 August – 205 September – 67 October – 16 November and December - 15 Total Number: 697

Fleas hosted by rats carried the plague

Inevitably, the plague came to these parts. A report from August 1666 said that only several hundred people, approximately half of the town's population, were left in Newport Pagnell.” by the disease would have been slow, with a community left stricken, reduced in number and with families devastated by the loss of many loved ones. Newport Pagnell had been an important thoroughfare and a place for travellers and traders to rest for centuries – In 1204 King John had visited, followed in 1224 by Henry III. But its importance as a bustling town and place of many inns would have contributed to its troubles. While the memories of those people whose footsteps we now walk in have long since been forgotten in the passing of time, they do remain in the pages of the Parish Registers. There are other quiet remnants of those dark days to be found. Frederick Bull wrote in his page-turner A History of Newport Pagnell, ‘on a cracked freestone under the lowest window on the North Side of the North Chapel of Great Linford Church is an inscription commencing with a Greek phrase as to the mortality of mankind and continuing: ‘Here lyeth the Bodies of Richard and Martha Peter, who as they were here joyned in Marriage,

Anno 1636, so it pleased God to lay them together in this bed of Mould, Anno 1666, both dying in this parish, She on the 14, He on the 16 of Sept; being removed from Newport by Reason of a Raging Plague.’ It would have been a subdued Newport Pagnell that welcomed the famous diarist Samuel Pepys, on Monday, July 8, 1666, who visited on a journey from London via Bedford. He spent the night at The Swan Hotel and recorded of his stay, ‘At night to Newport Pagnell, and there a good pleasant countrytown, but few people in it. A very fair and a like cathedral church; and I saw the leads, and a vault that goes far underground; the town, and so most of this country, well watered.’ Willen, Great Woolstone, Little Woolstone and Bow Brickhill all escaped the ravages, seeing as how they were all located away from main roads. Conversely, Shenley and Wavendon didn’t escape unscathed, and Bletchley, which at that time included Fenny Stratford on Watling Street, saw an average annual increase in deaths from 20 to 126. The ancient town of Fenny Stratford had hosted a weekly market for many years, but the main Chester to London route that had run through the town was rerouted as a result of the plague, and the market ceased. The plague devastated families, ruined livelihoods and caused distrust, panic and fear. As we now know from our own experiences in recent years, recovery would be a slow process. Research: historic-uk.com History of Newport Pagnell by F.W. Bull

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

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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t Northampton High School, we believe in a complete education that’s made for girls and young women. Everything about our school is carefully considered from our purpose-built site to our inspirational teachers and our first-class pastoral care. Our school is bursting with spirited students who we encourage to learn without limits. We’re not here to pigeonhole or conform to stereotypes. Instead, we encourage our girls to be curious and independent, resilient and brave; to lead and be individuals whilst recognising the value of collaboration and teamwork. In doing so, we turn “can we?” into “we can!”, unleashing the potential in a generation of girls and young women who can go on and define a future on their own terms. We are Northampton High School, and we are Made for Girls. Come and visit us. Whole School Open Days on Friday 8 March and Friday 3 May. Find out more on our website: www.northamptonhigh.co.uk 01604 765765.

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February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

MON 12th FEB ‘24 London Museums/ London Leisure Day

Price: £27 Per Adult £17 Per Child 16yrs or below. *Free entry into all the museum, but please check each museum website as you may need to book an entry time* Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.30am CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.45am Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 9am London at 17.00pm

THUR 22nd FEB ‘24 Churchill War Rooms

Price: £55 Per Person. Includes entrance fee. *This is a self-guided tour with audio guide* Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 9am CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 9.20am Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 9.30am London at 15.00pm

FRI 8th MAR ‘24 Call the Midwife Tour

Price: £75 Per Person. Includes entrance fee & Fish & Chip Lunch. *Please make us aware of any dietary requirements at booking* Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8am CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.20am Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.40am Chatham at 15.30pm

TUE 12th MAR ‘24 Lichfield Cathedral

£45 Per Person. Includes entrance fee and one hour guided tour of the cathedral. Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 7.45am CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.05am Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.25am Lichfield at 15.30pm

WED 20th MAR ‘24 Knole - National Trust

£50 Per Person- Non-National Trust members £32 Per Person-National Trust members, membership cards must be shown. Includes entrance fee & guided tour. 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 Kent at 16.00pm

SAT 23rd MAR ‘24 Birmingham Shopping

£27 Per Person The Largest Primark in the WORLD opened its doors in 2019, featuring a beauty studio, Barbers salon and 3 amazing dining experiences, including the Disney Café. 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 Birmingham at 17.00pm

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We offer a full supply & installation service or supply only. For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

FEATURE

A group of kittens found dumped in the new city just before Christmas

Casper was recently looking for a new home through the charity

Poor Inky was dumped in a box with a prolapsed eye

Tackling the

cat-astrophic rise in unwanted babies

RSPCA Milton Keynes and North Bucks (RSPCA MK & NB) branch tell Pulse Magazine about the difficulty of dealing with increasing numbers of unwanted cats and kittens – and every cat owner can play their part in helping to turn the tide, as Pulse’s Sammy Jones discovered... 16

veryone loves a cute kitten, right? Those little fluffy bundles of beauty melt hearts. Sadly, their cuteness is also their downfall, as people introduce them into their homes without really thinking about those kittens turning into bigger balls of fluff that can sometimes live for the best part of a couple of decades, and the associated expense of food and veterinary costs over their lifetime. We’ve talked about the importance of getting your pet neutered before, and yet the message never quite reaches everyone. It’s not an option. It’s a necessity. People love their pets, but when the household purse strings need to be tightened, or when their kitty’s belly starts bulging because they didn’t get her spayed?

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

It turns out that not everyone loves their feline friends quite as much as they claim – and they can be discarded to fend for themselves. And that, quite simply, has led to a crisis in stray cats and kittens with charities like the RSPCA left to manage the fallout. “It’s not a time to be complacent about neutering,” says Caroline Wells from RSPCA MK & NB branch, “We’ve taken in more pregnant cats and nursing queens than ever. “During Covid, more people took on animals and since the pandemic rescues like ours have been left to pick up the pieces – there are too many animals in a country now struggling with the cost of living crisis.” And the numbers really are staggering: “In Milton Keynes in 2023 we re-homed more than 700 animals, and of those 300 were kittens!

FEATURE

“Sadly we’ve suffered some losses too - most of those have been long term foster cats whose medical conditions have deteriorated or kittens that had little or no chance of survival. Although we get some cats brought in from out of our area and linked to Inspectorate cases, the majority of cats we take in are from Milton Keynes.” Irresponsible cat owners will always find a reason to leave their cat intact; ‘I can’t afford it,’ or ‘My cat doesn’t go outside’ are two of the most familiar excuses. But they hold little weight with charities buckling under the pressure of so many felines to care for. “There are many health issues linked to cats being ‘entire’, so even if your cat does not go outside, in order to reduce the risk of testicular cancer in males and pyometra and ovarian cancer in females, you really should consider getting your pet neutered,”

Why neuter? Prevents females from coming into season, attracting unwanted male attention which can lead to pregnancy or false pregnancies. Prevents the risk of testicular cancer in males and uterus infections and cancers in females. Reduces urine marking and roaming in male cats. Reduces mess - unspayed female animals can be messy when they come into season, as they can bleed for up to three weeks. Stops birth defects. Reduces the risk of theft - neutering can reduce the risk of them being stolen for breeding. Avoids expensive vet bills for problems during or after pregnancy.

Frosty was recently trapped and taken off the streets of Milton Keynes

encourages Caroline. “If you are concerned about the costs, you may be able to come to an arrangement with a veterinary practice, or you can consider contacting the major cat rescues to see if they are running any schemes that might be able to help you financially. “The secondary effects of neutering are very positive - cats may be more inclined to roam a smaller area or just stay home. Male cats won’t smell, cats often become more affectionate, and because animals are less likely to roam and consequently fight for territory, they are less likely to catch other transmitted diseases such as FIV.” What about those with religious beliefs who don’t agree with neutering? How would you encourage them to change their viewpoint? “We understand that some believe neutering is prohibited or forbidden under certain religions. Some of this links to how the operations may have been performed in previous times. Thankfully 21st Century medicine has progressed to the point that spay and neuter surgeries are humane and painless, and remove the problem of unwanted pets. “Pet ownership has increased immensely year on year, and alongside this, so has the population of animals without homes. It benefits people of all cultures to have an understanding of the current crisis and, no matter what their religious beliefs, to consider what a positive impact neutering their own animal will have to society.” It doesn’t take long for a little issue to become an overwhelming problem when cats are ‘thrown away.’ “In 2023, we took more than 50 cats from the estate of Fishermead. We were very lucky that we had a team of volunteers and support from some of the community who helped us bring in cats that were living as ferals. Sadly this happened because just a couple of cats weren’t neutered a few years ago and then spent year on year procreating. “Each year the young from these litters then bred too. Campbell Park Parish Council supported our proposal to hold an Animal Advice Clinic and as a result of this several more cats were spayed.”

Kittens Willow and Spike were born feral, but are now tame kitties

At the mercy of the elements and predators, stray cats and kittens suffer unnecessarily too: “We are seeing more and more situations where cats are born with illnesses linked to cat flu - this can cause problems with various aspects of the kitten’s health, but in particular eyes and respiratory issues. Sometimes these conditions are so severe the kittens don’t make it. It is heartbreaking for all the team at RSPCA Milton Keynes and North Bucks branch to lose any animal but especially when situations like this could have been completely prevented if the mother cat had been spayed. “Last year we saw kittens killed by foxes, cats and kittens knocked down crossing the grid roads, and others being dumped. “One thing that has been really sad for our volunteers is that some members of the public are obstructive. On odd occasions we may need to access an area in a private garden or ask a householder if they can remove food that has been left out. Our volunteers are often met with negativity and, on occasion, actual abuse.” Ask Caroline for heartbreaking stories and she could relay desperately sad tales all day long. “One cat had been straying in an area for several months. It was only when residents noticed the cat was limping that it was brought up on a residents page. One of our volunteers was notified and the same day went out to investigate. The following day the volunteer was back with a trap and we had two members of our trapping team on site trying to catch the cat. “After two and a half hours the cat was finally trapped and taken to Vets Now for emergency treatment. Heartbreakingly, after a seven day stray hold the cat, named Frosty by our volunteer, was diagnosed as being in liver failure by our vets and was humanely euthanised.” RSPCA MK & NB group are doing all they can to trap and bring cats in from the streets of the new city, but every cat abandoned can result in many more kittens to contend with. “We really are appealing to the entire population of Milton Keynes to play your part in this animal crisis and get your pets neutered,” Caroline added, “Please don’t leave it to others to pick up the pieces – join us to help resolve this awful situation.”

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

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February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust! These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in. The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light all fully fitted in less than a day from just £444! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our watchwords

are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job. Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford. Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been

referred to us by our existing customers - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles. At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’ So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9552 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

LEGAL

Residential Lease Extensions

Welcome to Heald Solicitors’ guide on residential lease extensions. As experts in property law, we’re here to navigate you through the intricacies of extending your lease, ensuring your property retains its value. This guide covers everything from current regulations to expected costs and upcoming legal amendments.

Kirsty Szulc and the Heald Residential Department deal with residential and conveyancing matters whether you are buying or selling a property.

Artemis House, 4 Bramley Road Milton Keynes MK1 1PT

f you own a flat, it is most likely that you hold it as a long leaseholder. Owning a property in this way allows you to live there for a set number of years, when this period expires, you have to give ownership back to the Landlord. Most leasehold properties are sold with a 100+ year lease, with some having a 999-year lease, which is seen as a virtual freehold. However, if the lease term drops to less than 80 years, it can become difficult to sell or remortgage. This is because, in order to extend a lease of less than 80 years, you would need to pay the Landlord 50% of the marriage value, which is the increase of value of the property the lease extension generates. In other words, if by extending the lease, the value of the property increased by £20,000 then you would have to pay the Landlord £10,000. Therefore, it is generally seen that once the lease term is less than 90 years you should consider whether to apply for a lease extension. Current Rules

What are the costs?

To be able to extend your lease you have to have been the registered owner for at least 2 years. You can ask for the lease to be extended by 90 years and the ground rent to be reduced to zero (a peppercorn). You will need to have valuation survey undertaken on the property to establish the premium payable to the freeholder to extend your lease. Once the valuation has been undertaken you can instruct solicitors to serve a Section 42 Notice on the Landlord. Your Landlord will have 21 days to request further information, such as proof you have owned the property for 2 years, and carry out their own valuation. They can send a Section 45 Counter Notice within 2 months of receiving your initial notice. The Section 45 notice will do one of the following:

A lease extension can be quite expensive, however the increase in value of the property usually is more than the costs, especially if the lease is extended prior to dropping below 80 years. The things to consider

• Agree to your request on the terms set out in the Section 42 Notice • Agree to your request but propose different terms, for example a higher premium • Not agree to your request, and set out the reasons why

The above information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Heald Solicitors disclaims and excludes any liability in respect of the contents of this article or for action taken based on this information. If you need legal advice, please contact a solicitor.

There then maybe some negotiation in order to agree on terms; if they can’t be agreed upon, you have the option to apply to the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal for a determination. When agreement has been reached, the Landlords solicitors will draft a new lease, which will then be reviewed and agreed by your solicitors. This can then be signed and a completion date agreed. After completion the new lease will be registered at the Land Registry.

• Costs of the valuation • Cost of your legal fees • Cost of your Landlords legals fees – these generally have to be covered by you • Stamp Duty Land Tax – this is only usually relevant on second homes which are charged at the higher rate. • Premium • Marriage value – only if the lease has less than 80 years to run. New Rules The government is currently looking at changing the law in this area to make it easier and fairer for leaseholders to extend their leases. The legislation in its current form proposes • Increase the number of years the lease can be extended to 990 years • Abolish the marriage value • Abolish the need to have been the owner for two years. • Stop the Leaseholder having to pay the Landlord’s legal fee. Currently, it is unknown when these changes will come into effect, and it is possible that the above proposals may change again. At Heald Solicitors we are happy to assist you with your lease extension.

Find out more at: www.healdlaw.com

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

PULSE PICS

‘Water’ wet month it has been, and we’ve got some simply ‘splashing’ pics for you – including some fab sunrises, marvellous motors and clever Cormorants – in this month’s Pulse Pics… Nice weather for ducks! This aerial shot of a very flooded Newport Pagnell on New Year’s Day is courtesy of Nick Eldridge. These spectacular early morning images were captured by Philippa West in Campbell Park – look at the colours!

The annual Vintage Stony Stratford car show on New Years Day saw petrol heads and lovers of gleaming bodywork flocking to the historic town for an eyeful of the cars and motorcycles on display. The event – raising funds for Willen Hospice – included ‘one minutes noise’ with a cacophony of engines involved.

Pic: Nikita Jacobsen

Mark Kerr grabbed these gruesome but great images of a Cormorant making a meal out of a pike, at Emberton Country Park. A full belly for the bird, but a bad day for the pike!

Veganuary got off to a flying start in Bletchley, which hosted a Vegan Fair showing that while meat-free is cruelty free, it most definitely doesn’t need to be taste-free. It was rather a fresh day, but that didn’t put off four-legged lovely Murphy from staying for the duration.

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February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

Say ‘I do’ to stress free wedding planning

024 is a leap year, and if you subscribe to the tradition, it means that ladies can propose to their partners – an opportunity that only presents itself once every four years, so get cracking girls! But irrespective of who is doing the asking, once the question has been popped, and provided the answer is the right one, thoughts turn to organising the big day. It’s fine if you decide to run away somewhere on a whim or if you want to stand on a sun kissed beach at sunset with only you and your partner to consider while you exchange vows.

But for everyone who intends to have a more traditional day for friends and family to share in, wedding planning is famous for being notoriously stressful. Pay attention to our guide and you can enjoy all the wedding wows with none of the woes...

Get organised There are so many things to work through; invitations, guest numbers to consider, wedding venue, reception venue, attire, flowers... and that little lot is just for starters.

Write a list that can be added to as often as you like. Just get it down on your laptop or in a pad and refer to it always. Out of the mind and on the page will keep your head clear and make things much more manageable. If you plan a long lead in time, the temptation might be to leave things for a while, but don’t be complacent – wedding cakes don’t make themselves, a good flower arranger will be in demand by more couples than just you, and photographers might be many, but which is the right one for you? Finding the correct people in plenty of time is great for them, and for you, and avoids disappointment. Think ahead. Continues on page 26 >>

February 2024 | Pulse Magazine | Bride Guide

BRIDE GUIDE

Get your perfect wedding dress for less from the Willen Hospice Bridal Boutique!

estled upstairs in their Leighton Buzzard store for over four years, this dedicated bridal boutique has been a haven for brides looking for the perfect dress, without breaking the bank. With a wide range of styles to suit all tastes and sizes, brides-to-be can browse the vast collection of new and pre-loved dresses with prices starting from as little as £85. The knowledgeable team also work with a local alteration company to ensure the perfect fit and have a variety of accessories on offer too. Laura Hamilton is one of the many brides who recently got married in a dress bought from the Willen Hospice Bridal Boutique and can’t speak highly enough of her experience saying “My dress was all I ever could ask for, at a fraction of the cost and all for a wonderful cause. As a family we have always supported Willen Hospice, but my choice of shop was made even more significant as my mother-in-law passed away in the Hospice. She came with me to choose the dress so got to see me in it.” Laura is so thankful for the care and

support that her family and her motherin-law received, “We were so supported and there was a personal touch with letting us come and go as we please to be with her at the end. Forever grateful to a wonderful place.” Stay updated on new stock and find inspiration on their bridal shop Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ WillenHospiceBridalBoutique Extend the celebration to family and friends with the newly opened Occasion Wear department based in Olney. The wide selection of clothing, shoes and accessories are perfect for special occasions. You can also tick off wedding favours off your list your and add a thoughtful touch by choosing Willen Hospice scratchcards which are available in all Willen Hospice Stores or online for £1 each, by visiting https://lottery.willen-hospice.org.uk/ Willen Hospice relies on the generosity of local people to provide its compassionate care, with only 15% of costs met through NHS funding. By supporting the Hospice, you are helping families at what is possibly one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Laura Hamilton on her wedding day

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Bride Guide | Pulse Magazine | February 2024

BRIDE GUIDE >> Continued from page 24

Start a spreadsheet With so much to consider, your brain will quite possibly feel that it’s stuffed full of confetti on occasion! Keep on track; use a spreadsheet – inputting all tasks, contacts and responses means you have everything in one easy place and can keep tabs on what needs doing and when it needs done by.

Know when to take a break If you’ve been scrolling through wedding car suppliers for hours on end, or in the bridal shop having a crisis over the all important dress, take a step back. We never make our best decisions when we are exhausted and fraught. Don’t be rash, take your time and it will fall into place. Every bride wants to look her best on the big day, and saying yes to the dress that you aren’t smitten with, won’t lead to confidence as you head down the aisle.

Ask for help... There is a reason many people choose to enlist the support of a wedding planner – they take the strain and allow you to enjoy the wedding countdown.

If you are in a position to utilise their skills, then go for it. But it really doesn’t matter if your budget won’t stretch that far – ask your friends and family for their support. They’ll be keen to help, and many hands make light work. Do make use of those who know lots – whether it’s your wedding venue, clothes for the bridesmaids, worries over the wedding dinner or any number of other worries, the venues, dressers and chefs in question will have heard it all before. Weddings are their business, so who better to ask than the experts?

...and know when to politely ask people to step back Some well meaning pals and relatives can be a bit too keen to help, and an overbearing personality can leave you feeling just as stressed. Remember, this is your wedding, and you need to be in the driving seat. Being polite, but firm is the way to go if you need to ask someone to back up a little.

The Maestro!

Introducing Mr Lincoln Noel A top-drawer entertaining personality, premier league pedigree as a pianist, engaging Master of Ceremonies and comprehensive weddings expert (entering his 45th year in this field!) Looking to create special memories? Engaging ”The Maestro” will be one of your finest decisions!

Call 07967 441503 Email Tinklinlincoln@gmail.com 26

February 2024 | Pulse Magazine | Bride Guide

If you are struggling, ask for help - wedding service providers will be happy to advise you

Check, check and check again Regularly referring to that aforementioned spreadsheet will ensure any errors and oversights are picked up with ease, and remedied. It might not be all hearts and flowers, but it will avoid stress.

BRIDE GUIDE

Be in the moment When the big day arrives, it can be easy to be swept away on a tide of vows, relatives, organisation and speeches, and all too soon the curtain comes down on your special day. No matter how busy things get, remember to stop, look around and take in everything. Enjoy yourself. You’ve hopefully got a lifetime of togetherness to follow, but you only get one wedding. It’s your special day, and you’ve worked hard for it, so savour every bit! The important thing to remember enjoy your day, it will go by in a flash

Delapré Abbey crowned Wedding Venue of the Year 2024 in Business UK Awards: A Triumph in Elegance and Excellence

elapré Abbey stands as a captivating venue, steeped in history, offering bespoke services for both indoor and outdoor weddings. Nestled in Northampton, our neo-classical mansion presents rustic, luxury, and country house options, creating a one-stop destination for couples. The choices are abundant, from a flowerfilled Walled Garden ceremony to intimate country estate vows or a blend of both. Our award-winning executive head chef, Bart Polinski, and the Michelin-trained Hibiscus restaurant craft exquisitely presented dishes with locally sourced produce, emphasizing sustainability. Couples can select from variety of rooms

within the Grade II* listed house or our 550-acre green expanse, overseen by our meticulous wedding planner. With payment plans and consistent pricing year-round, Delapré Abbey ensures budget-friendly celebrations. Our historic Library, Salon, Drawing Room, and grand Dining Room, alongside medieval kitchens and cellars, provide diverse settings. Exclusive use of our Walled Gardens and on-site accommodation in the new wedding cottage add to the allure. With a commitment to personalization and a limit of 25 weddings annually, Delapré Abbey promises a unique and tailored experience, having hosted over 200 weddings since 2017.

Wedding Fayre Come and enjoy a viewing of all our hotel has to offer on Sunday 18th February, 11am - 2pm

Enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival. Meet our suppliers and see our fabulous indoor and outdoor wedding set ups. For more information contact our wedding specialist on 01536 416666 or events@ketteringparkhotel.co.uk

Kettering Parkway, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN15 6XT ketteringparkhotel.co.uk | danielthwaites.co.uk

Bride Guide | Pulse Magazine | February 2024

! e v o l h s u Lots of L BEAUTY

Lush’s loved-up Valentine’s Day collection boasts 34 products in total, and we’ve picked a few of our favourites. Remember you need to self-love too – so treating yourself is just as important as showing affection for another!

Can’t decide on the words to write? Don’t worry – send this fresh, handmade Love Letter bath bomb instead. It’s bursting with softening cocoa butter and coconut milk and you can secretly post it to the one you admire. Moisturising, sweet, creamy and light, this bomb shares its fragrance with Strawberry Feels Forever massage bar. Fruity and fun. RRP: £4

How about this Love Burger bath bomb for a filling gift? Its three courses deliver the ultimate bathing feast; a zesty Sicilian lemon burger patty bubble bar, layered with rhubarb & custard scented salad soaps, cuddled between cherry-fragranced bath bomb buns! The heart-shaped tomato soap inside is made with real tomatoes. Saucy! RRP: £14

Lush has assembled a floral threesome for its With Love gift, which is inspired by romance and roses, and includes a Passion shower gel, a Tisty Tosty bath bomb and Ro’s Argan body conditioner. There are no thorns here, only perfectly harnessed petal magic. RRP: £22

Lock your loved one inside this heart-shaped box to enjoy a sweet and sensual selection of seven luxurious body care, bath and shower products. This Lots of Love gift includes a Passion shower gel, Strawberry Heart soap, Posh White Choc and Rose body wash, Strawberry Crumble bubbleroon, Love Letter bath bomb, Sex Bomb massage bar and Sex Bomb bath bomb. Forget that bottle of bubbly, and bathe in the bubbles instead!

Perfect for puckering up, Sweet Talk lip scrub isn’t only sweet for the lips, but the environment benefits too; the raspberry seed oil used is processed from a company keen to achieve zero-waste production – these seeds are a byproduct of the fruit juice and jam industry. Jammy, and then some. RRP: £7

RRP: £55

It’s a viral sensation and it is back with a new look in time for Valentine’s. The Lush Flower Bombshell bath bomb is ready to wow your senses with its signature Rose Jam scent, and soothe the skin in a nourishing, shimmery bath filled with confetti-like flowers, petals and buds. RRP: £14 28

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine

Kiss Me Quick shower jelly is new to the romance range; shower in juicy kisses and fresh strawberries with this flirtatious vegan shower jelly, scented with spicy clove bud oil and sweet mimosa absolute. A kiss for the skin. RRP: £7 > All products are available at Lush stores in centre:mk in Milton Keynes, the Grosvenor Centre in Northampton, and online at lush.com/uk

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

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February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

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Exquisite menu Live entertainment Chocolates & a rose

Valentine’s Day

PERFECT ROMANTIC VENUE Wednesday 14th Feb 2024

Enjoy Valentine’s Day with your special someone in the lovely settings of our Grade II - listed chapel. A special evening of sumptuous food from our à la carte menu and live romantic music.

BOOK YOUR TABLE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

CALL 01908 566577

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7 St Paul’s Court, High Street, Stony Stratford, MK11 1LJ T: 01908 566577 E: info@calcuttabrasserie.co.uk For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

FOOD & DRINK

Dark chocolate mini cakes

INGREDIENTS Ingredients for 12 small ones or one large cake of 22cm 50g dark cocoa powder 125g caster sugar 125g dark brown soft sugar 250g Self Raising Flour 250g boiling water 125g salted butter 1 tsp vanilla paste 30g freshly brewed coffee – about an espresso (optional)

METHOD 1. Place cocoa, sugars, butter and water into a large bowl. Using a hand whisk, combine well before adding the remaining ingredients, with flour being the last. 2. Pour the batter into a prepared lined cake tin, or mini bundt cake tray. 3. Bake at 160°C/Gas mark 4 for about 20 minutes for the mini bundt cakes or longer for the larger cake, until a wooden skewer comes clean.

2 large eggs

4. Let cool down into the tin first, before finishing to cool down on a cooling rack. Before serving dust with icing sugar.

Icing sugar to dust

5. Keeps for 4 days into an airtight container.

Our recipes come from MK Pulse food writer, Sofia Gallo, an acclaimed local chef, food writer and teacher at Milton Keynes Cookery School. She has recently won the ICG Cooking Competition and was a contestant on BBC’s Masterchef. Follow Sofia: Instagram: @in_cucinacon_sofia FB: incucinaconsofia www.lamiacucina.co.uk 32

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

RESTAURANT & BAR

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

HOME & GARDEN

DIGGING DEEP Everything’s coming up roses! L ast month, we met keen amateur tomatoes being a great example of that, then gardener Debbie Keating, who took an over time it does fill up. overlooked outdoor space, and turned “Only the massive pile of empty pots behind it into a little haven. This month, the shed testify to the sheer volume of death Debbie shows off her finished garden that has happened out there!” which is a beautiful and calm creation. The journey to green perfection has Debbie had used a free gardening design been a lengthy one, but the results speak app to map out her plans, and employed the for themselves. muscle power of family members to help with “It has taken about seven years to almost the initial hard work. finish,” she admits, “Now there are bits that “The bedded area surrounding the perfect need to be repaired or replaced, but when it’s oval lawn was dug up, and then soil was summer and tidy, it is an amazing space and mixed up with topsoil and compost to break more like an outside room, rather than just a the clay up and make it more habitable,” she parking zone for those bins.” recalled, “I then covered those areas with The space has a real buzz about it too... weed fabric and a generous layer of wood “I try to pick good pollinator plants,” Debbie chippings, which is a much more bug friendly agrees, “We have far too many paved gardens mix than gravel. nowadays, and the massive decline in “I have difficulty staying focused insects in recent years is going to be on one task effectively for the downfall of us all. A real lawn long periods of time, so any is also far cooler underfoot in garden work needed to be the summer months.” broken down into much Debbie’s garden is also smaller tasks that could a private spot to indulge in easily be picked up and a caffeine fix before work then parked when I ran out nowadays. Talk about starting of steam. the day the right way. “Did I mention that I’m not And there are other good with plants?” she smiles, benefits too... Debbie’s jar of Random Red “Well, I believe about 80% “I have redcurrant and of what I plant either dies or blackcurrant fruit bushes which never grows. It doesn’t make for a good track are a vital ingredient for Random Red, my record, but as long as I replace the gaps each favourite vodka,” she smiles. year, and don’t keep getting the same plants The absolute best reason to raise a glass to over and over again in delusional optimism, her efforts! 36

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

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February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

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OUR2024 2024 CATEGORIES CATEGORIES

NOMINATIONS

NOW OPEN Nominate inspirational individuals or businesses who deserve to be recognised for their hard work within Milton Keynes.

About Nominations for the Milton Keynes inspiration awards 2024 are now open. Inspiring businesses and individuals can now be nominated for ther tireless hard work within the community. The prestigious black-tie event recognises nominees in their respective elds of diversity including MK Inspired, Performing Arts, Sports, Charities, Creative Arts/Media, Emergency/Health Services, Food and Beverages, Business, MK Equality and Education. Nominations are now open and close March 31st, 2024 - so don’t Nomin miss out on your chance to get involved! We are also proud to announce MK Pulse magazine as our media partner. To nominate simply visit www.mkinspirationawards.co.uk or our Facebook page.

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HOME & GARDEN

Save BIG on Rising Energy Bills with T&K Home Improvements Facing soaring energy costs and a living cost crisis in the UK, T&K Home Improvements offers vital energy-saving solutions with their 45th-anniversary

ith the Energy Price Cap rising on the 1st January, freezing temperatures and the continuing cost of living crisis; it has made everyone in the UK take stock of their monthly outgoings. With many homeowner bills over double what they were a year ago, they are becoming high priority for people to reduce quickly. T&K home improvements are celebrating 45 Year’s of installing energy efficient products this month and have some clever ways to start saving on rising bills and reducing your carbon footprint. Energy Saving Calculator For this reason, T&K Home Improvements, double glazing specialists based in Wellingborough, have developed a bespoke Energy Saving Calculator. Found at www.tkhi.co.uk/energy-calculator It collates data from leading sources including the BBC, House Beautiful and My First Property to create an easy to use calculator that estimates the potential savings on your energy bills. “Almost every homeowner we speak to asks us about how we can improve their energy efficiency,” says Adrian Timbers, T&K Sales and Marketing Manager. “It’s the number one reason to replace older windows and doors so it became our top priority to help new and existing customers understand what can be potentially saved. “Our calculator demonstrates just how effective double and triple glazing is and the real savings that it can be made of future years.” The average detached UK home upgrading single-glazed timber windows to new double glazing uPVC windows could save an estimated £14,700 over 25 years and almost £30,000 over 50 years. 40

You might be shocked how much you could potentially save on your energy bills with Double or Triple Glazing from T&K Home Improvements

And that’s with energy costs as they are now. Why Double and Triple Glazing Works So Well Energy-efficient double and triple glazing acts as an excellent insulator to keep warm air inside the home and prevent cold air from the outside from getting through. Compared to single glazing, double-glazed windows benefit from an extra space between two panes of glazing, which is filled with argon gas (or similar). This significantly reduces the transfer of heat in either direction. As a result, double glazing means the heat you’re generating in your home will stay where you want it and won’t escape. So you’ll find yourself reaching for the thermostat less often. Triple glazing adds a further layer of warmth, improving energy efficiency even further. T&K Home Improvements’ commitment to the highest-quality glazing is part of a wider focus on sustainability. This includes an investment in fuel-efficient vehicles and their aim to cut all plastics and packaging by a further 30% before 2024. Sustainability Starts At Home “We know that our customers are as committed to sustainability and ‘going green’ as we are,” says Adrian. “So we’re encouraging everyone to be aware of their energy usage and how to reduce it. “Whether it’s to save money on heating bills, reduce your carbon footprint or protect

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

the planet, it’s clear that double and triple glazing in the home is an excellent, effective investment.” T&K Home Improvements’ tailor-made Energy Saving Calculator shows real, datadriven statistics and predicted savings that, as Adrian explains, customers have been amazed by. “They can’t believe how much they are actually going to be able to save,” he says. “It will make a real difference to customers’ lives – no exaggeration. Times are hard right now. When we help customers to understand the true benefits of double-glazed windows and what it can save them, we see a weight lifted off their shoulders and a smile on their faces.” Scan the QR code to use their online Energy Calculator and see how much you can save. Or call 01933 677 444 or visit www.tkhi.co.uk to find out more about their FREE Triple Glazing Upgrade and 45th Anniversary Sale.

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INTERIORS

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antone antone has declared Peach Fuzz as the Colour of the Year 2024, a comforting hue situated between pink and orange. This choice reflects a desire for community and cosiness in uncertain times. Peach Fuzz, a blend of orange, yellow and white, serves variously as a base, neutral, or accent colour, particularly effective in muted or dark interiors. Its softness comes from the white component, while its natural origin adds a comforting and consoling aspect. Peach tones, ranging from light pink to deep coral, bring balance and serenity. They pair well with colors like olive, sage green, navy blue and aubergine in dark interiors. Peach and mid-grey form a pleasing combination, whereas extremes of grey create a dramatic contrast. Peach and white offer relaxation, while peach with aqua or cyan hues of blue, or gold, creates a rich, celebratory ambiance, ideal for function rooms and personal spaces like bathrooms. In home décor, peach works well for walls, accent pieces, and furniture, particularly in entrance halls or living rooms. It is also a fitting choice for kitchens, bedrooms, and even exterior home design, complementing white woodwork. Black tones add sophistication, and wood tones achieve an earthy feel, suitable for playrooms or nurseries. For those who prefer subtler touches, peach is also popular in rugs, lampshades, curtains, bedding and cushions. Retailers like Oliver Bonas, Toast, Ian Snow, Next, Dunelm, The Cotswold Company, Anthropologie and Heal’s offer a variety of peachthemed items. Peach’s positive psychological effects include enhancing communication and calmness. Alphapedia highlights its role in promoting positivity and rejuvenation. The term ‘peach’ for color first appeared in the 16th Century, and its association with health and well-being dates back to that era. While Peach Fuzz is the trend for 2024, its historical roots and enduring appeal in interior design suggest a timeless quality. When incorporating peach into your home, consider your personal preference and the lasting joy it brings, beyond its current trend status.

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MK MAYOR

It’s all in a day’s work The Mayor and Mayoress of the city of Milton Keynes look back on a busy and eventful few months in their roles; visiting schools, hosting charity evenings and joining local events.

very day is so different in Civic life, and the volume of events varies considerably, 102 events during November and December, with a wealth of festivities and fun to a quieter January, so we thought we would pick a day to reflect on from last 3 months to share a taste of what we do. Reflecting on a date in early November, starting with some speech preparation for the day’s events, then off to a primary school assembly, 400 children smiling and waving a wonderful welcome, pure joy to see. It was UK Parliament Week, the children were learning about democracy and decision making in our country and were eager to know what the Mayor might do about some of the issues the children faced in their lives. They had prepared some questions, like what can be done about the road and cars outside their school, so scary for the children, worried about being knocked down, how can we help the families struggling to feed their children and how does it feel to be Mayor of our city? So inspiring! Whilst I returned to work, the Mayoress welcomed two groups of new citizens into the UK with the fortnightly Citizenship Ceremonies, spending some time talking to

Pic: Jane Russell

each new Citizen to find out more about each persons journey to Milton Keynes. Some people coming as families, some alone, some have been in Milton Keynes a very long time before deciding to become UK citizens. Then home to eat and get ready for the evening events, a quick social media post about tomorrow’s charity, Disco Bingo event. We are hoping to see a full house! We hear a new baby has been born in our wider family, lovely news! Then on to the evenings events, first, Worktree Volunteering Awards, hearing about companies supporting this amazing charity in its endeavours to bring career conversations to every young person in schools multiple times to give them possibilities, what they can’t see, they can’t be! We shared our own routes into careers, I spoke of my route from Youth Training Scheme to Mayor and the Mayoress about her route into a 20 year community arts career, following a chance invitation, as a young person, to join a steering committee to organise an International Year of Young People event. Last event of the day was the Patchwork Poetry Spoken Word Event organised by Milton Keynes Islamic Arts & Culture in Mezabaan restaurant. We caught the end of the poems and a beautiful song that captured our hearts, powerful and pure. The prepared speech as so often happens, replaced by a heartfelt connection to the room, a reflection on words heard from the previous speaker, ‘Communities so different from our eyes but so the same from our hearts’, this resonated so powerfully and brought some hope, where what we might see in the news, brings much sadness and a feeling of powerlessness. We have to believe humanity can do better.

A busy November and December: Camphill MK Christmas Jumper Jaunt (top left), Redway Runners Santa Saunter (top right), Boxberry Gardens Lights (above) and Olney Christmas Tree Festival (bottom left)

Sharing food before we left, time to chat with the audience and organiser, Anouar, who as always, was telling us about his next big idea, bringing refuge women to a space where they can share their talent for cooking, Ukrainian, Syrian, Afghan refugee women, coming together, building community and empowerment through food and conversation. Then home to sleep. Tomorrow another day. We love how this role unfolds each day, sharing parts of ourselves, shining a light on all the awesome work being done in this city, what an amazing opportunity! This month I am busy training, as I am running the half Marathon in the MK Festival of Running, March 17th. I am looking for a team of people to join me to raise money for Harry’s Rainbow. You can run 5K, 10K, Half Marathon or 20 miles. Get in touch through the Mayors Office if you would like to take part.

Councillor Mick Legg, Mayor of Milton Keynes mayorsoffice@milton-keynes.gov.uk 44

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

01908 253601 mayorMK

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MPS OUT & ABOUT

A positive start to 2024

his month, almost 30,000 families in Milton Keynes will receive their third Cost Of Living payment totalling £900 over the last 12 months as part of the Government’s support package for the most vulnerable people across our city. On top of this more than 37,000 pensioners across Milton Keynes will have now received Winter Fuel Payments and Pensioner Cost of Living Payments, worth up to £600.

The Government has also increased Local Housing Allowance for private renters on Universal Credit or Housing Benefit in Milton Keynes. I know housing costs are the number one outgoing in terms of bills each month so this extra support from the Government for those who most need it in MK is absolutely vital. £450 Tax Cut For Milton Keynes Workers In January, workers across Milton Keynes benefited from a Government tax cut, worth £450 a year to the average worker. I’ve been lobbying the Government for a long time to ensure people get to keep more of the money they earn and in the Autumn Statement, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt confirmed a cut in the main rate of National Insurance contributions from 12% to 10%. In Milton Keynes the median annual wage for a worker is just over £35,000 a year which will mean a tax cut of £450 thanks to the Government’s largest ever National Insurance tax cut which will benefit 27 million people across the country. This is on top of cutting and simplifying tax for two million self-employed people, cutting business taxes and freezing alcohol duty to support the hospitality sector, plus lots more. We’ve supported the most vulnerable through the cost of living increase caused by the significant amount of money spent keeping people in jobs during the pandemic and Putin’s evil war in Ukraine and now after halving inflation, we can deliver the tax cuts that will get our economy growing again. Access To Dentistry I know access to dentistry is something many of my constituents are concerned about at the moment and I have recently met with Dentistry Minister Andrea Leadsom about the issues we are facing in Milton Keynes. I am grateful for her support on the issue and I am looking forward to seeing the Government’s recovery plan for dentistry which it plans to set out shortly.

Ben Everitt at Whitehouse Community Diagnostic Centre

£9 Million Boost For MK Schools Schools across Milton Keynes are set to receive a boost of more than £9 million over the next year as education funding reaches a record high. England’s core school budget will reach almost £60 billion in 2024-25 – its highest ever level in real terms – with Milton Keynes set to benefit from a total funding increase of £9,332,534 in 2024-25 compared to 202324. Thanks to the Government’s widespread education reforms, England has risen up the global rankings in maths, reading, and science. Just this month, England was ranked 11th in the world for maths, up from 27th under the last Labour Government in 2009, placing England as one of the top performing countries in the western world, and in May last year, England was named ‘best in the west’ for primary reading. Community Diagnostic Centres Update Last year we secured two brand new Community Diagnostic Centres for Milton Keynes to help us deliver more checks, tests and scans every year. Our Community Diagnostic Centre in Whitehouse is already up and running and is capable of delivering an extra 52,550 tests, checks and scans a year making sure patients can get a diagnosis and care as soon as possible. The Government has confirmed that we have now delivered more than 6 million of these checks at CDCs across the country. The second Community Diagnostic Centre for our city will be based at Lloyds Court in Central Milton Keynes and will be able to deliver an extra 221,214 checks.

Ben Everitt MP for Milton Keynes North

Ben discussing MK dentistry with Dame Andrea Leadsom

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 686830 Email: ben.everitt.mp@parliament.uk www.beneveritt.com | Facebook: beneverittmk Suite 102, Milton Keynes Business Centre, Foxhunter Drive, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK14 6GD

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

MUSIC

Meryl Streek (left) will be at The Craufurd on Feb 24, with Xentrix (right) dropping in earlier in the month

Why Meryl is simply ‘Streeks’ ahead of the pack Sammy Jones turns up the volume for a busy month of sounds...

anchester’s IST IST starts February’s music menu at The Craufurd Arms (Feb 1). The band has been in play since 2014, but only released its debut album during the pandemic. Architecture was delivered through their own Kind Violence records. They’ve been a productive unit since too; album number two The Art of Lying followed toward the end of 2021, and in 2023, the third release Protagonists followed. The noisy indie quartet – recently seen out on the road as guests of The Mission – are starting 2024 off the right way; in all they are playing four dates as part of IVW, and two of them sold out before Christmas. There’s a buzz about these guys, and rightly so. Grab a ticket. Back in the day we used to be stage front whenever Xentrix played at The Pitz, and while that venue has been defunct for a long time, the band is making its MK return as part of a special anniversary; 35 years since the release of their Shattered Existence debut. Back in the day the band toured with Annihilator, opened for Sepultura, and caused a commotion with their version of the Ghostbusters theme. Happy days. “It’s great to be playing in MK once again, it’s been a while,” said guitarist Kristian Havard, “The old Pitz (Woughton centre) gigs we did in the late 80’s and early nineties were always great fun and would get very physical and would generally end up with someone from the pit on their way to A&E. We always looked forward to those Pitz gigs as the crowds never disappointed us and really enjoyed themselves to the max which made us have a great show. We can’t wait.” Thrashcore mob Tortured Demon are tour support. 46

IST IST (above) kick things off at The Craufurd Arms on Feb 1, while Buckcherry (right) are already sold out for Feb 4

Buckcherry (Feb 4) sold out months ago, so we’ll not take up precious column inches telling you what you can’t see if you don’t already have a ticket. Stray (Feb 16) return to the stage following some uniformly warm responses for their current album, About Time, which came out last September. “I think I am right in saying that the last time we played at The Craufurd was March 2020 just before the Coronavirus struck and everything ground to a halt,” frontman Del Bromham told Pulse, and he ain’t wrong. “It was a great show, it was packed out and the audience were brilliant, so obviously it was high on the list for us to go back and play again,” he said, promising that plenty of new

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

material will feature amongst the set list. Thr3e will support. Notts Bad Movie Club are out on tour, and heading our way with a showing of Spice World The Movie (Feb 17), with a great load of spicy karaoke to pair it with. Essentially, this is a place for people who love laughing at terrible films to go to and have some fun. ‘Enjoy mocking the worst of cinema with friends and one or two drinks,’ invite organisers, and it’d be rude not to take them up on the

MUSIC

offer. Not least when faced with Halliwell’s horrible acting skills. There will be ‘play along with the film’ games, a Spice Girls quiz and a prize for the best rubbish fancy dress. Take up the invite and Say You’ll Be There... The magnificent Meryl Streek (Feb 24) was last at the venue a year or so ago, with an angry, articulate and awesome show, and it was clear from the intensity and quality of the material that the politically-outspoken avant garde punk chap was going to be a highlight of the year, even at that early stage. And so it proved to be. We came away that night clutching a vinyl copy of his superb debut album 796 which is as brilliant and real as it is challenging. The pr blurb calls it ‘an emotionally volatile and heart-wrenching collection of cutting edge punk that pushes genre boundaries

while traversing extremely challenging political subject matter with aplomb and vitriol,’ and frankly, we can’t better that. Since his last visit to the new city, Meryl has been making friends and influencing people quicker than lies drop from politicians’ mouths. Exactly. He’s had a great year, including a tour with PiL, fronted of course by another outspoken chap, John Lydon. If you want to catch a fella on the up and up, you won’t want to miss this. Antarctic Monkeys do the tribute thing in the venue the same night and Monmouthshire trio Bug Club (Feb 29), will tell tales of the everyday that we often take for granted, shot through with humour and riffs-a-plenty. > A sterling month. Go get those tickets at thecraufurdarms.com

Pic: Lee Scriven

Del Bromham’s Stray will be at The Craufurd on Feb 16

Why don’t you come on over and see The Zutons?

et’s rewind to the 2000s and The Zutons delivered three albums in quick succession, becoming a multiplatinum selling band in the process. Two Top 10 hits, Why Won’t You Give Me Your Love? and Valerie, later to become a triple-platinum hit for Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson was the icing on the cake. It has been 16 long years since The Zutons last spoiled us with new material, but that drought is about to come to an end. The Big Decider will be out in April, and has been sprinkled with plenty of working magic; the band’s original producer Ian Broudie was back, along with Nile Rodgers. As you would expect, plenty has happened during their time away, and the opus was born under the weight of family tragedies, lives lost and created, reality checks and home truths faced up to and stared down. “Working with Nile was just an amazing experience, he gave me a confidence that I’ve never felt before making a record,” said guitarist and lead singer Dave McCabe, “He’s very laid-back as a person and a good listener. On the song ‘Disappear’, I wrote a spoken word piece about The Zutons travelling the stars and galaxies asking the most powerful question in the universe, “Why?” “I asked Nile if he’d read it out over the top of the end section of the song, thinking he’d just say no. But he jumped in the vocal booth with his chain around his neck and his sunglasses on and did about 20 different takes, all in different styles of himself. It was mind-blowing! It was as though he really does travel around the universe in some spaceship and just makes music in his spare time. He’s just one of the coolest people I’ve ever met.”

Scan the the QR code to check for The Zutons returns and other gig tickets in February

And being back in the room with Mr Broudie was its own reward. “It was great to reconnect with Ian Broudie on this record as well,” Dave added, “He told me the demo of Big Decider brought a tear to his eye and that’s why he said yes to working with us again. It was one of the first songs we wrote for the album so getting that reaction from Ian made me feel like we were doing something right. The song spoke for itself.” > The Zutons play MK11 in Kiln Farm on February 15.

Also booking at MK11 this month: Sunbirds – Feb 2 Oas-is – Feb 3 Ferris & Sylvester – Feb 8 Old Dirty Brasstards – Feb 9 Metallica Reloaded – Feb 10 Clearwater Creedence Revival – Feb 16 Rocket Max – Feb 17 Kings of Lyon + The UK Strokes – Feb 24 > To book tickets click to mk11kilnfarm.com

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

MUSIC

Sanctuary Forever bash

will be history in the making

t’s bonkers to think that this year is the 20th anniversary of the closure of The Sanctuary, but a whopping reunion is planned for November 2 and ready to raise the roof at the Marshall Arena, writes Sammy Jones. The venue originally opened its doors back in 1991 and was the birthplace of the legendary Dreamscape raves. It became a hub for ravers who flocked to the new town from around the country to enjoy mammoth 12 hour sessions of sounds. Despite its warehouse persona The Sanctuary was a palace for ravers and shaped the electronic scene before it was razed to make way for the MK Dons stadium. The curtain came down on the venue on July 10, 2004 with a momentous last visit by Slammin Vinyl. Grant Smith, Slammin Vinyl director recalled the venue in the pages of Milton Keynes Wired For Sound: “It wasn’t a corporate venue like so many places these days, so you didn’t have the litany of rules and regulations that sometimes make current day venues seem quite oppressive. “The music policy across our period was drum n bass, hardcore, old skool, hard trance and techno. “We booked virtually everyone who was a name in the rave scene, from Grooverider and Goldie to Slipmatt and beyond. “We made the site as big as possible,” he said remembering that very last date, “I won’t say how many we packed in, but we sold out a month in advance and could probably have sold 25,000 tickets if we’d had the space.” Its loss in music was a devastating blow, but it has always remained at the forefront of the 48

memories of the many thousands who spent time dancing their socks off at the haunt. It was more than just a place to congregate. It was a thriving social scene bringing the very best of the genre to the ears of the masses.

A flashback to the last show at The Sanctuary before the venue was razed

The original superstar DJs will be playing in a warehouse only 600m away from the original site of The Sanctuary. We’ll have 5000 like-minded individuals celebrating as one.”

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

This November, for one night only, Sanctuary Forever: The Return to V7 Saxon Street will set hearts racing once more. Organisers are calling it ‘history in the making’ and quite right, too; the brand returns not only to the same city, but on the same land and at the same address where The Sanctuary once stood. Quite simply, this bash will be the biggest 90s rave reunion for the past 20 years. “The Sanctuary was the mecca of the rave scene and the home to both Dreamscape and Helter Skelter who were the biggest rave organisations in the UK and pioneers of the scene. It holds so many memories for so many across the country of their first experiences of raving,” a spokesman for the event told Pulse Music, “This event had to be put together to once more bring a national audience to our fair city to celebrate the amazing dance culture that MK had much influence in evolving into what we all now see as the global dance music movement and phenomenon.” Organisers are pulling out all the stops for the sold-out 11-hour rave which will take place at the Marshall Arena. It will be a sensational meeting of musical creators and disciples, with headliners including Fabio & Grooverider and a very special guest. “Revellers can expect magic, plain and simple! “The original superstar DJs will be playing in a warehouse only 600m away from the original site of The Sanctuary,” the spokesman added, “We’ll have 5000 like-minded individuals celebrating as one.” > For the latest information make your way to the official FB page: @sanctuaryforevermk

THEATRE

h t i w e m i T n I k c a Step B I Should Be So Lucky I Should Be So Lucky is on at MK Theatre from March 5-9

tock Aitken Waterman (SAW) filled the pop charts with gargantuan tunes and soundtracked a generation with era-defining songs from Kylie, Rick Astley, Jason Donovan and a whole heap of others. Now that music is making its way to theatre stages with the world premiere of the SAW musical, I Should Be So Lucky. The upbeat delivery will bring some colourful cheer to the stage in Milton Keynes in early March. The worlds of theatre and music share many of the same disciplines, but it’s not necessarily an easy transition, as Pete Waterman found out. “This is a very different genre for us – musical theatre – it’s hard work, it’s one of the hardest things I’ve done in my life,” Pete told us, “My admiration for the cast is unbelievable. The hours they work and the detail they put in. “The last thing you want is the writers of the music to sit in the audience frowning, but they’ve got to understand that these are our children, songs that are very special to us. “We’re writers, but we’re now also the custodians of people’s memories, so we are touchy about how those songs are treated.” The idea for a SAW musical had been suggested before now, but it had never been right. To coin a phrase, this time they knew it was for real.

“I’d previously worked with a couple of people on it, but I think we’d never seen a story that was of any interest to us,” Pete admits, “Nobody came up with a story that we thought was emotional enough – they are very emotional songs and I think people didn’t get that. “Working with the cast in the theatre recently took Mike (Stock) and I back to when we wrote the songs. When you hear someone do a song slightly differently, the lyrics get to you. “I guess nobody before had understood why the lyrics were so poignant,” he realises, “Yes, they were hits, but they were more than hits to the people that bought them; they were statements, particularly for young people. “We’ve always guarded that, we never wanted to spoil that memory. I think that the people we talked to in the past didn’t see the depth of the songs, they just saw that they were hits, and that didn’t work for us.” That titular song aside, this fresh musical is crammed with other SAW favourites – 30 of them! Some have been reworked and even caught their creators by surprise, thanks to the creativity of musical director George Dyer. Debbit Isitt, writer of I Should Be So Lucky the Musical with Pete Waterman. Pic: Mark Waugh

Scan the QR code to visit the MK Theatre website >>

“What he’s done is absolutely great, you sit back and think, ‘I never saw the song like that,’” Pete said, “Sonia’s song, ‘Never Stop Me Loving You’, I have never seen the way they do it in this musical. You just go, ‘Wow, why didn’t I think of that?’. The musical had me in tears.” While she won’t be with us in the new city, Kylie does play her part in the musical too, which will thrill fans. And let’s face it, we could use a little lift right now, couldn’t we? “I hope audiences have fun with this show,” Pete adds, “This musical couldn’t have been timed better. We’re currently in a world that’s all over the place, I mean, we just need a bit of uplift as we’ve got enough grief.” I Should Be So Lucky Milton Keynes Theatre, March 5-9 Book up: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

THEATRE

h t i w s n r u t e r s i r h C Sammy Jones walks you through a busy month of onstage action in the new city...

e told you about it last month, but a little reminder that performances of Matthew Bourne’s Edward Scissorhands continue at Milton Keynes Theatre through to Saturday, February 3. As with everything Bourne sprinkles his magic on, his take on the classic Tim Burton movie is cutting edge. Perhaps this one more than most, given the story.... Chris McCausland is back on the road in a brand new show, and Yonks! stops off at the theatre on February 5. These days he’s seldom off the box, and his Channel 4 travel series, Wonders of the World I Can’t See was great... almost as fab as when he took the Mastermind trophy. His chosen subject? The band Pearl Jam. If you saw him on his last road trek, a 140 date sell-out, you might be expecting more of the same this time. You’d be wrong. “All the material is different, but different in a lot of ways,” Chris said, “The last show was pretty personal. There was a lot about my experiences of being blind, being a dad, being a husband, and doing all of that in the dark. This show has none of that really, this show is really quite daft. “It’s about loads of funny stuff, everything from my hatred of Shakespeare to my love of Schwarzenegger, from Jesus to doughnuts, and A.I. to turnips.” Truth be told, Chris still can’t believe his luck with this career stuff. “I tried stand-up, just as a bucket list dare, but then that became a hobby, then a job, and here we are and I am promoting my second national

y n n u f f o t r o s t n e r e f a dif stand-up tour which is still pretty nuts to me,” he admits, “I just wish people still bought videos at Christmas.” In typical Agatha Christie style And Then There Were None (Feb 6-10) will keep you on the edge of your seats. Ten strangers are lured to a solitary mansion off the coast of Devon. When a storm cuts them off from the mainland, the true reason for their presence there becomes horribly clear. Will any of them make it off the island? After a record breaking West End season, the courtroom comes to MK with Twelve Angry Men (Feb 12-17). A jury has murder on their minds and a life in their hands as they decide the fate of a young delinquent accused of killing his father. But what appears to be an open and shut case soon becomes a huge dilemma, as prejudices and preconceived ideas about the accused, the trial, and each other turn the tables every which way. Romesh Ranganathan’s four-day stay is all sold-out, so we’ll skip that and tickets for Tom Allen (Feb 22 & 23) aren’t much more common than hen’s teeth either. Shrek the Musical (Feb 27 – March 3) is an ogre-sized sensation that will bring the feel good – just what we need during a dreary February, with Antony Lawrence as Shrek and Joanne Clifton as Princess Fiona. Grab a ticket or be green with envy! The Magic of Terry Pratchett is explored at The Stables (Feb 10) when author and comedian Marc Burrows takes a closer look

Ian Smith drops in at The Cannon in Newport Pagnell

Getting snippy with it (top left) - Edward Scissorhands is back in the new city, and enjoy turnip chat with Chris McCausland (above) - Feb 5

at the late author’s life, influences, impact, wit and wisdom, from his days as a school librarian to his time as a trainee journalist to his untimely death from Alzheimer’s in 2015. On February 14 go and see comedian Janey Godley – far better than a meal and flowers with someone you’ll not even be with in 12 months from now*! Over to Janey whose public battle with cancer was inspirational (though she might not agree) and thought-provoking: “...whilst on my tour in 2021, I found a giant tumour in my ovary giblets and had to FIGHT to stay alive. Never one for the conventional path in life, I am still not dead yet and bringing my tour back on the road...now it’s time to laugh, live and celebrate after beating this dreadful disease.” Multi-award winning comedian Ian Smith is out on his debut national tour, and brings Crushing to The Cannon in Newport Pagnell (Feb 18). The hour-long session is about stress, love and driving a tank in Slovakia with your hairdresser. Three timeless themes, then. A chance to see the sell-out Fringe show on your doorstep, and still be home in time for a cup of cocoa, or another gin, before bed. *possibly

> Book tickets:

The Magic Of Terry Pratchett comes to The Stables - Feb 10

Milton Keynes Theatre: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes The Stables: stables.org The Cannon: wegottickets.com

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

WHATS ON

#WhatsOnPulse Material Matters Until Sunday, February 25 Showcasing artworks by Alison Goodyear, Michelle Keegan and Michael Evans, whose collaborative works embody the synergy between the mechanical, the digital, and the handcrafted. Material Girls: northamptomuseums.com The Story of Guitar Heroes Thursday, February 1 Expect classic hits from artists including Chuck Berry, Hank Marvin, Jimi Hendrix, Brian May and Slash in this loud homage to some of the most influential and iconic guitarists of the past 50 years. Fret-ful: royalanddergate.co.uk Storytime – The Grumpy Frog Thursday, February 1, 10am A story for children up to the age of five, followed by rhymes and songs. Led by Harch Chaggar at The Library, 5-7 Church Street, Stony Stratford. Free admission. StonyWords: stonywords.org.uk

Flipping marvellous - the Olney Pancake Race runners will be lining up on Tuesday, February 13

Annabel Abbs – 52 Ways to walk Saturday, February 3, 1pm Annabel shows how walking strengthens our bodies, calms our minds, and raises our spirits. It can also improve our vision, hearing, respiration, blood pressure, and cognition. Upstairs at The Library, 5-7 Church Street, Stony Stratford. Stony Words: stonywords.org.uk

Stony Playreaders Thursday, February 1, 7pm, free – donations welcome Exploring the story of John Hooten, a stable lad at the Bull Hotel in 1822, written by Sheila White and performed by the Stony Playreaders, upstairs at The Library, 5-7 Church Street, Stony Stratford. Stony Words: stonywords.org.uk Women’s Walking Network: Furzton Lake Thursday, February 1, 10am – midday A route taking participants around Furzton Lake and Teardrop Lakes as Parks Trust leaders set the pace for a 4.5 mile walk around the area. Free. Step up: theparkstrust.com

Kirsty Sedgman - In conversation at Stony Words, February 3

Kirsty Sedgman – On Being Unreasonable Saturday, February 3, 2.30pm In a world where we all think we’re being reasonable, how can we figure out what is actually right? Looking back through history and around the world, On Being Unreasonable argues that sometimes you do need to act unreasonably to bring about positive change. Upstairs at @The Library, 5-7 Church Street, Stony Stratford. Stony Words: stonywords.org.uk

Antiques Centre

Building 1, The Royal Ordnance Depot, Weedon Bec, NN7 4PS

OPEN: Wed to Mon 10am-4pm, CLOSED: Tues Facebook: @vintiqueltd Instagram: vintique.limited T: 01327 341 980 E: info@vintique.co W: vintique.co 52

Washboard Resonators are appearing at Bletchley Blues Club this month

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

Xentrix Saturday, February 3, 7.30pm Thrash metallers Xentrix make their Milton Keynes return, with support from Tortured Demon. For Whose Advantage? thecraufurdarms.com Mr Simpson’s Little Consort Sunday, February 4, 3pm Mr Simpson’s Little Consort offers a potted history of carolling in words and music. The show is an eclectic mix of songs from the 4th to the 20th centuries with bells, whistles, crumhorns, and (almost) the kitchen sink. Upstairs at The Library, 5-7 Church Street, Stony Stratford. Stony Words: stonywords.org.uk Jimmy Regal & The Royals Tuesday, February 6 A tough and howlin’ harmonica-led three piece from South London, with a sound from Mississippi to New Orleans to Mali to Canvey Island. Sounds great: bletchleyblues.uk Community Litter Pick: Kents Hill Park Tuesday, February 6, 10am The pick will be led by a member of The Parks Trust and will last for around an hour. It may be muddy in areas so do dress appropriately. Help your environment and get some exercise. Free. Help keep our parks clean: theparkstrust.com Ferris and Sylvester Thursday, February 8, 7.30pm The husband and wife duo visit Milton Keynes as they ready the release of their second album, Otherness, which delivers psychedelic folk and blues to rock and soul. Superhuman: mk11kilnfarm.com Fastlove - a tribute to George Michael Friday, February 9, 7.30pm Playing all the hits from his glittering career, this is a show for George fans to delight in – featuring Wham! numbers alongside those solo successes. Too Funky: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Life and Art: Elke Pollard Retrospective Saturday, February 10 – Sunday, April 28 Art and design highlights from the life of the influential and prominent Northampton artist who was well-known for her gregarious personality. Marvellous mixed media: northamptonmuseums.com Twelve Angry Men Monday, February 12 – Saturday, February 17 A jury has murder on their minds and a life in their hands as they decide the fate of a young delinquent accused of killing his father. The verdict is in: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes Denton & District Gardening Club Monday, February 12, 7.30pm Elaine and William Portch will talk about The National Garden Scheme (NGS Yellow Book) and more. Denton Village Hall, Vicarage Lane, Denton NN7 1DT Visitors £3, raffle and refreshments Taking root: Call 01604 890875 for more info. Olney Pancake Race Tuesday, February 13 Pop along and witness the famous tradition when women of the town race the 415yard course, from the Market Place, down the High Street, coming to an end outside St Peter and St Paul Church. Pre-race there will be a pancake breakfast, stalls, music, grand raffle and races for children taking place in the Market Place. Flippin’ great: olneypancakerace.org The Washboard Resonators Tuesday, February 13 Martin Roper and Jack Amblin visit Bletchley to deliver foot-stomping blues, ragtime, swing and folk music. Ragtime roars: bletchleyblues.uk

Old Dirty Brasstards Friday, February 9, 7.30pm Pop-punk classics from the 90s/00s performed by a 10-piece tweed-clad brass powerhouse. Oi Oi: mk11kilnfarm.com

Walk & Talk: Romans in your Parks – Bancroft Roman Villa Tuesday, February 13, 2pm-3.15pm Explore the footprint of the Roman villa at North Loughton Valley Park, and pop under the road to the site where a Temple Mausoleum was discovered. Booking required. History on your doorstep: theparkstrust.com

Chloe Petts Saturday, February 10, 7.30pm Following her hit run at Edinburgh Fringe and Soho Theatre sell-out debut, Chloe visits Northampton Underground to amuse with a show which she promises will be really rude. If You Can’t Say Anything Nice: royalandderngate.co.uk

Janey Godley: Not Dead Yet tour Wednesday, February 14, 8pm Enjoy voiceovers and anecdotes, straight from the woman wouldn’t die or shut up. Join Janey back on the stage, doing what she does best. The woman who answered back: stables.org

February Highlights Cregan & Co Thursday 15 February

Jim Cregan co-wrote, co-produced and musically directed for Rod Stewart for almost 20 years. More than 40 years on, he has formed his own band Cregan & Co to present the very best of Rod’s music. The Amazing Bubble Man Monday 19 February

Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences around the world for more than 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. This is a show with spellbinding tricks to keep audiences of all ages mesmerised. Pete Firman: TrikTok Saturday 24 February

With over 175 million online views and countless TV appearances under his belt, Pete Firman is firmly established as the UK’s top comedy magician. Expect an evening of jaw-dropping magic and laugh-out-loud comedy. Funk Soul Orchestra: James Brown v Prince Thursday 29 February

A unique and exciting live music performance that celebrates the genius of two of the most legendary and iconic names in funk and soul music. The Stables Wavendon Milton Keynes MK17 8LU Box office: 01908 280800 stables.org

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

WHATS ON

Long Road Home Tuesday, February 20 Members of Storm Warning, The Shufflepack and The Steve Summer Band come together in a blues rock band that blends in soulful and jazz elements. One more song: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Was Your Ancestor a Criminal? Thursday, January 29, 10.30am-midday An illustrated talk by Dr Colin Chapman who will describe examples of offences in Northamptonshire regarded as crimes in past centuries. Booking essential: northamptonmuseums.com

Connor Burns - Vertigo Thursday, February 22, 8.30pm A punchline-packed show featuring ugly dogs, relationships and the inevitable family drama. Hilarious, relatable, and a bit rude in places. Belly laughs: stables.org Songs of Self Expression Friday, February 23, 10 – 11.30am, 11.30am – 1pm, 1.30-3pm, 3-4.30pm Creative songwriting for beginners, encouraging youngsters ages between seven and 12 years old to unleash their inner creative. Verse and Chorus: northamptonmuseums.com The Zutons Saturday, February 24, 7pm As the band prepares to release its first album in 16 years they visit the Roadmender to share the new tracks and play the old favourites including THAT one! Why don’t you come on over: theroadmender.com

Pic: Ed Moore

Ian Smith brings his fringe show to The Cannon in Newport Pagnell on Feb 18

Stray Friday, February 16 A hometown show for the stalwart rock band which will feature many tracks from their extensive back catalogue and new material from the current disc, About Time. All In Your Mind: thecraufurdarms.com

Meryl Streek Saturday, February 24 Irish avant garde punk producer who is firmly on the rise, visits Wolverton. A special night awaits from the man responsible for injecting a shot of freshness into the punk of today. False Apologies: thecraufurdarms.com Woof Walk: Kents Hill Park Saturday, February 24, 10am A Parks Trust Ranger will lead the way as you discover MK’s green spaces with your dog, and both you and your pooch can socialise and meet others. Entry £1. Walkies: theparkstrust.co.uk

Our Feathered Friends Trail Saturday, February 17 – Sunday, February 25, during regular hours Enjoy a bird themed trail around Abington Park Museum to discover more about our feathered friends. Spot all the birds and win a prize, and then enjoy some bird watching in the park. High-flying: northamptonmuseums.com

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra: Dvořák’s Symphony No.9, ‘From the New World’ Sunday, February 25, 2.30pm Artist-in-residence Zlatomir Fung will perform Haydn’s Cello Concerto in C Minor, in a concert also including Beethoven’s Overture Leonora No.3 and that Dvořák delivery. From the Hovis advert to your ear: royalandderngate.co.uk

Ian Smith: Crushing Sunday, February 18, 7.30pm A 60 minute show about stress, love and driving a tank in Slovakia, as Ian brings his critically acclaimed, sell-out Fringe show to The Cannon in Newport Pagnell as part of his debut national tour. Finding the funnies: wegottickets.com

Shrek the Musical Tuesday, February 27 – Sunday, March 3 Join Shrek and his trusty sidekick Donkey as they set out on a quest to defeat the fearsome dragon and rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona. I’m a Believer: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

Come & Sing Carmina Burana Saturday 2nd March 10am - 4pm Mary Adams Hall, Woburn Sands MK17 8NN Join Danesborough Chorus for a choral workshop exploring this perennial favourite under the expert direction of conductor Ian Smith. Tickets: www.wegottickets.com www.danesborough.org.uk

Northampton Philharmonic Choir COME & SING: CHORAL CLASSICS St Michael’s & All Angels Church, Perry Street, Northampton,NN1 4HL

Saturday 16th March 2024 Tickets £15 including music – online or on the door. Come along and join us for the day and enjoy singing some choral classics. Timetable for the day: 10:30am – 11am Registration 11am – 1pm Rehearsal 1pm – 2pm Lunch 2pm – 5pm Rehearsal 6pm Concert northamptonphilharmonicchoir.co.uk

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Film Reviews by Jordan Adcock

Image: https://www.rollingstone.com

FILM OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4.5/5

If it’s not too late for New Year’s resolutions, Hollywood should live up to Godzilla Minus One’s standard in 2024. Compared to Tinseltown’s recent attempts at Godzilla films, or most of its blockbusters in general, this Japanesemade one takes its material seriously to craft serious tension, fear and thrills, while telling a story with sympathetic characters you want to see overcome their challenges. Our main character is Kōichi (Ryunosuke Kamiki), a kamikaze pilot who flees his mission in the last days of World War II, only to escape the reptilian monster on a Pacific island as nearly everyone else gets killed. Haunted by survivor’s guilt, he rebuilds his life in the ruins of post-war Tokyo, supporting and partnering the orphaned woman Noriko when Godzilla returns to devastate Japan, leaving him obsessed with stopping him.

The film’s total clarity is its greatest strength, compared to so much genre filmmaking which coasts on sound and fury. It gives you everything you need to understand the characters and their dire situation (even before Godzilla shows up), and to follow their journeys as they find the strength to rebuild themselves and their world. Kōichi is particularly compelling because we understand both the futility of his kamikaze duty, or of fighting Godzilla with conventional weaponry, and his painful, fully believable need to redeem himself. That it’s a more human story ironically gives the monster’s appearances much more weight, as we care when he heralds the destruction of their fragile recovery from the war. That’s to say nothing of Godzilla’s ruthless power on screen, realised both digitally and practically, which harks back to the 1954 original film without being in thrall to it. ✪

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM

ONE LIFE

THE BOY AND THE HERON

WONKA

Star Rating: 2.5/5

Star Rating: 2/5

Nicholas Winton’s efforts to rescue Jewish children from Nazi-threatened Czechoslovakia are an extraordinary true story, adapted into this very decent film where he’s played by Johnny Flynn in 1938 and Anthony Hopkins in the 1980s. The famous television moment on That’s Life! where Winton was reunited with those he saved is recreated with special, heartwarming prominence. Hopkins’ reflective gravitas certainly provide the standout scenes here as his older Winton silently agonises over whether he could have done more. The Prague scenes of children and their families suffering squalor as Winton, his colleagues and mother (Helena Bonham Carter’s no-nonsense demeanour provides some laughs) struggle against bureaucracy are suitably harrowing and sad, though the film never escapes the sense it pulls some punches for an overall more comfortable experience. ✪

Famed Japanese anime filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki emerged from previously-announced retirement to direct this new adventure about Mahito, a boy who silently mourns losing his mother during World War II. Stalked by a seemingly sinister heron, he follows the bird into a strange otherworld to save his new stepmother. Combining outlandish fantasy realms with weighty themes of grief and acceptance, The Boy and the Heron is in similar vogue to Miyazaki’s masterpieces Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke. The storytelling isn’t as well-rounded or moving as those films, with less compelling characters or magical worldbuilding, but Studio Ghibli’s luscious 2D animation remains more expressive, even cathartic to watch than most anything else produced today, especially the heron in all its mischievous, morphing forms (memorably voiced by Robert Pattinson in the English dub). ✪

Wonka’s makers must be credited for filming a Willy Wonka prequel that surprisingly isn’t creatively bankrupt. Having the same writer-director as the wonderfully innocent Paddington films, Paul King, certainly helps this musical tale to charm as younger Wonka struggles to establish himself against a confectionery cartel controlling the chocolate trade. Amongst a mostly excellent cast including Olivia Colman as a nightmare landlady, the unfortunate weak link is Wonka himself, played by Timothee Chalamet. The very talented actor goes for whimsical but comes across as insincere, and this Wonka lacks Roald Dahl’s genuine mischief nor enough emotional weight to compensate (despite a couple of scenes with the ever-reliable Sally Hawkins). At least the songs are well choreographed, with some cute lyrical wordplay. ✪

The would-be DC Comics cinematic universe comes to an unceremonious end with this thoroughly okay Aquaman sequel, which also makes it the best DC film for some time. The snipes and banter between Jason Momoa’s irreverent Aquaman and Patrick Wilson as his half-brother Orm are easily the best things about what’s otherwise a fully predictable action adventure to stop an ancient power from rising again, saturated with CGI underwater monsters. Oh, and a mythology that’s so Lord of the Rings-lite you’d rather just watch those films again instead. It’s a relief they don’t bother dragging other DC heroes into this one like The Flash did, not pretending that this failed franchise can be revived. Hopefully Warner Brothers’ next go at a DC Comics universe works much better. ✪

Star Rating: 3.5/5

You can follow Jordan on Twitter (@JordanReview) and read his blog at www.reviewsreflections.wordpress.com 56

February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

PUZZLES

View from the Far Kerb

Last Year

SUDOKU PUZZLE Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no repeats. Good Luck!

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December 2023

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t was around this time, last year, that I first wondered where it was all going. Seemingly, only a day or so earlier, I had been celebrating the New Year with family and friends. The next twelve months were going to be good and life was going to be grabbed with both hands. The coming year promised great things. As February rolled around, the first month of the year had vanished. Its evaporation had taken place without leaving a mark. Had my calendar not recorded the days that had passed, I’d have sworn that the year had barely started. No worries; January was a month that was just a buffer between the old and new and it has always been like that. Besides, the weather is never good enough to do anything, so it was always going to be thirtyone days of treading water, so to speak. The real start of the year was to be February. And that was the first lie to myself. February came and went, becoming March which then led us into what many claimed was spring. It was nothing memorable; always being colder, windier and wetter than anyone expected. The media always predicted a glorious summer every time a particularly good day of weather cropped up during any week. Suddenly it was the end of June. As the days led into July, half of the New Year had gone! Still, there was a whole six months left. With so much time available, there was plenty of opportunity to do things. But then, days of summer arrived, lingering briefly and hardly at all – never seeming to match with those days I was free to enjoy them. As a result, I hankered after them and waited for each.

1 There was hardly a blink of an eye before the colours of the leaves changed and they began to litter the ground. As if having crept up on me, like a cat stalking a mouse, autumn was here. Now over three-quarters gone, the 2023 that had arrived in a flurry of fireworks and celebration, was now edging towards exhaustion. The realisation was rationalised by me as there still being plenty of time left to make the year one to remember.

As November faded into December, the monster known as Christmas reared its head and roared as it took over everyone’s life, time and future.

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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There were many projects and tasks I had lined up for the New Year. The whole twelve months was supposed to allow me to attend to a rather comprehensive list. However, it wasn’t so onerous as to be impossible to fit into the months that remained. And so it was that the second lie to myself was told; much bigger than the first. Things came up that needed to be addressed ahead of the plans I made back before January. Time became scarcer. As November faded into December, the monster known as Christmas reared its head and roared as it took over everyone’s life, time and future. Christmas then came and went, heralding another New Year. All I can say is: somewhere along the way, I had another birthday…

Clues Across 1. Asian temples (7) 5. Place (5) 8. Caustic solution (3) 9. Line of descent (7) 10. Engine (5) 11. Embarrass (5) 13. Thin fried batter (7) 15. Church service (4) 17. Percussion instrument (6) 19. By means of this (6) 22. Type of agate (4)

Phil O’Hara

Solutions to Sudoku and Quick Crossword can be found on page 58

30 31

24. Windpipe (7) 26. Problem (5) 29. Foreign (5) 30. Grounds, causes (7) 31. Also (3) 32. Indications (5) 33. Roams (7) Clues Down 1. Bohemian dance (5) 2. Italian port (5) 3. Former Greek currency (7) 4. Slumbers (6)

5. Acidic fruit (5) 6. Small house (7) 7. Wizardry (7) 12. Male child (3) 14. Pale (4) 16. Bitter plant (4) 17. Broad sword (7) 18. Significance (7) 20. Account for (7) 21. Insect (3) 23. Restricted (6) 25. Clues (5) 27. Beach (5) 28. Corrodes (5)

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | February 2024

Your stars

HOWARD PARKER

THE ASTRO-GUIDE

Flavour of the Times - By the time of the new moon in Aquarius on 9th, we shall be starting to really feel the flavour of the period ahead of us. The influence of Aquarius is getting stronger and by the 17th, things could be in Aquarius overdrive! I’m always wary of making exact predictions because what usually happens is something that comes out of the blue and this is particularly true now with the Aquarius talent for unpredictability. The people most hit by all this will be those of us with planets in the signs of Leo, Taurus, Scorpio and of course Aquarius.

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 19

GEMINI May 22 – June 21

LIBRA September 24 – October 23

PISCES February 20 – March 20

CANCER June 22 – July 23

SCORPIO October 24 – November 22

You might have spent years being a rebel – in your beliefs or dress or making some other quirky statement but now it’s a case of ‘put your money where your mouth is’. Your moment has come but you may still not be ready for it, as you look back at all the years of waiting to be the you that you always wanted to be. But the planets are all lining up in your favour now so get ready!

The big Aquarius moment at the beginning of the month will probably unsettle you but you get some respite on 17th when the sun finds its way into your sign, followed by the full moon that will help you to get your feet back on the ground. There is still upheaval and overthrowing of traditions all around, but a little Piscean softening may help you gain some perspective.

ARIES March 21 – April 20

You will want to go off and start putting all the new Aquarian ideas into action but a bit of caution is advised until you know where you stand. The times are changing for all of us so we need to do more serious thinking than we have been doing recently. The new download of ideas and thoughts will give clues of where we should be putting our actions so think before you leap.

TAURUS April 21 – May 21

Ploughing the same old furrow, as the bull likes to do, is no longer a viable option. Change is being forced upon you and you should try to keep in mind that this is for a purpose – it is so you can grow as a person and become more who you should be. This is going to get rather uncomfortable but it can also be very productive.

Aquarius is more serious in its intent than Gemini and while this climate of airy thinking may appeal to you, it is all for more serious purposes, possibly no less than the salvation of humanity on this planet. You should slow down, wise up and have a close look at where you are headed. Cheap chit chat it certainly is not!

Aquarius wants to nurture humanity, to find ways for us all to work together for the good of all. I think this is something you can work with and you bring a lot of human warmth with you so welcome to the party! Joining in with your community and nurturing its development would seem like a good way to go right now.

LEO July 24 – August 23

The recent full moon at the end of January should have given you a few clues about where we are going this year. It may have touched some personal places deep inside, leaving you rather unsure of where you will be going this year. The early part of the month is particularly unsettling with the new moon and Uranus adding some very potent unpredictability to the mix. Be careful.

VIRGO August 24 – September 23

There’s a comeuppance threatening at this month’s full moon in your sign on 24th, just after the sun has popped into Pisces. This may have something to do with how you responded to some acute weirdness earlier in the month when Aquarius was going rampant. Take time to consider where you stand and, if in doubt, do nothing until the fog lifts.

Your Own astrological Forecast for 2024

PUZZLE

SOLUTIONS

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. 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 7 ( . 6 + ( :

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SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 22

Your general optimism will be happy enough with all this air energy buzzing around. It’s exciting isn’t it? You can add fire to air which is very combustible and all sorts of new ideas will start forming in your mind that may have lain dormant for a long while. The early part of the month is best for all this but perhaps wait until the sun enters Pisces and softens things up.

CAPRICORN December 23 – January 20

All that hard work thrown up in the air! Things may feel a bit like that. You’ve been proceeding steadily up-hill like the mountain goat that is the symbol of your sign and someone calls you and points out that you’re climbing the wrong mountain! Rethinking is the name of the game and you won’t be short of ideas coming thick and fast at you about where you might go next.

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Like Taureans, the Aquarius energy will prove to be very unsettling for Scorpions and no doubt you will feel it at a very deep level. You may feel that others are not very compassionate towards you or are impatient. It is thinking that is favoured this month rather than feelings and ideas can feel very cold for you. That feeling may ease a bit after the full moon on 24th.

you and your life. It will illuminate many things that you may not have considered up to now, and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year. My 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. Please visit www.astroguidance.co.uk for more details and to book a session. You can also text or WhatsApp me on 07866 727743 or email me at howpark@aol.com for more information.

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Aquarius is an air sign but it is much more individualistic, so if you are in a serious relationship you may find yourself looking at any co-dependency issues you may have and realising that you have neglected yourself for the sake of the relationship. What personal needs do you have that may not be expressed within the relationship but which are still important to you?

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February 2024 | MK Pulse Magazine | For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk

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