On 8 April, a six month pilot scheme started which aims to better link MK Connect vehicles to existing bus routes. The scheme’s primary aim is to reduce waiting times, especially for those in rural areas.
During the pilot, most MK Connect vehicles will cover one or two of three zones, rather than the whole city. This avoids situations where, for instance, a driver drops off one passenger in the south such as in Bletchley then immediately collects another in the north such as in Olney.
Some passengers who travel from rural northern areas of Milton Keynes currently wait up to 70 minutes to be collected. Zoning the service may reduce rural wait times by more than three quarters, to around 15 minutes.
For more information on this pilot scheme visit:
getaroundmk.org.uk
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More than 600 people have already signed up for the cow-themed Midnight Moo this year and you can still register for 5 or 10 mile night-time walks from Midsummer Place to raise much-needed funds for Willen Hospice. Put Friday 12th July in your diaries.
Would you recognise an ichthyosaur? You’re unlikely to see one in a nearby lake because they’ve been extinct for 95 million years. Milton Keynes Museum has launched a crowdfunding campaign to give one of our oldest known residents a home. Then everyone can see the skeleton of this wonderful creature for themselves.
Not quite as old, but just as interesting, the Old Lawnmower Club holds its annual Festival at Milton Keynes Museum this month. With almost 200 years of lawn mowing there are some really quirky and unusual designs to see.
If you’re already feeling the summer ‘vibe’ then make sure you don’t miss the kaleidoscopic Northampton Carnival on 8th June. It’s a ‘Festival for All Cultures’ so there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the Racecourse in the Town Centre will be full of food, fun and festivities. Be transported to the Caribbean, Asia or Africa for the day.
If you’re in need of a little extra adrenalin then try out the colossal ‘Mammoth’ obstacle course at Aqua Parcs instead. From 4th May we can all enjoy the thrill of the 20ft ‘cliff jump’. You have a chance to win one of five pairs of tickets to try it and all the park’s other attractions for free. Just scan the QR code to enter before the end of the month.
Last, but certainly not least, it’s time to cast your vote in the new Buckinghamshire Food & Drink Awards. Let’s celebrate our best brewers, bakers, butchers, beverage makers and the finest local eateries.
There’s so much to see and do this month – we can’t wait. Kerry
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A new local radio station for Milton Keynes is getting ready to launch on 1 June.
Prepare to tune in to a revolutionary radio experience as The New Horizon Radio gears up for its highly anticipated launch on June 1st. Set to captivate audiences across Milton Keynes and beyond, this dynamic new station promises to redefine the airwaves with its eclectic mix of music, engaging content and unwavering community focus. Available on DAB Digital Radio, online streaming platforms and smart speakers, The New Horizon Radio will broadcast live from its state-of-the-art studio nestled within the vibrant Midsummer Place shopping centre.
Behind this exciting venture is Chris Gregg, (inset), a familiar voice in Milton Keynes’ radio scene with nearly two decades of experience in the city, including launching MKFM and steering the programming of Heart and the former Horizon Radio.
“I’m thrilled to finally be able to unveil the launch of The New Horizon Radio on June 1st,” said Chris. “We’ve listened to what people want to hear and carefully
crafted a station for today’s listeners with a fresh sound, useful content and a strong presence in our community.”
The station’s lineup boasts a stellar team, with former Chiltern Radio breakfast duo Tony Dibbin and Emma Saint set to brighten MK mornings, while local comedian Dan Mayo brings his unique flair to drivetime, plus a
weekly showcase of local musical talent and coverage of grassroots sports as well as live broadcasts from local events.
In a nod to the digital age, The New Horizon Radio will embrace a multimedia approach, delivering captivating video content across social platforms, YouTube and TikTok, alongside enriching audio podcasts and on-demand material. Committed to nurturing the next generation of media personalities, the station will offer professional training for aspiring radio hosts, podcasters and YouTube creators.
As the flagship station of the new Milton Keynes DAB multiplex, Horizon Radio will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with a diverse array of exciting new radio stations, each catering to different local communities, music preferences and cultural backgrounds.
To discover The New Horizon Radio and other new services, simply press the ‘rescan’ button on your digital radio.
> Find out more at horizonradio.com
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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”.
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Join Willen Hospice’s biggest fundraiser, the Midnight Moo returns on Friday 12 July - and over 600 people have signed up already!
The Midnight Moo, sponsored by Specsavers Milton Keynes, is a 5 or 10 mile night-time walk, starting at 10pm from Midsummer Place, Central Milton Keynes. 5 milers finish at the half way mark at The Good Gym in Kiln Farm, and the 10 milers continue on to complete a circular route, returning in the early hours of the morning. This year, the charity is celebrating 15 years of their Midnight Moo fundraising event. To commemorate the occasions, they are asking everyone to embrace the cow theme, with udder-ly amazing fancy dress!
Nikki Poole, Willen Hospice Community and Events Fundraising Manager says, “The Midnight Moo is one of MK’s best charity events. We have people returning year after year and that’s because the atmosphere is just amazing. If you haven’t walked the Midnight Moo before, then I encourage you to sign up and take part for your local Hospice.”
As a charity, Willen Hospice receives only 15% of their ongoing funding from the NHS, which means they need to raise almost £6 million every year. The local charity is kindly asking everyone taking part to set themselves a fundraising target of £100. This will help fund the Hospice’s running cost of providing specialist end-of-life care and support for local families.
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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 lightall 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!
What happens when irresponsible owners decide they no longer want that gorgeous guinea pig now she’s not quite so little, or that beautiful bunny who takes more looking after than its owners were up for?
That’s when the phone rings and Louise Norman and her husband Steve have to jump into action, as Sammy Jones discovered...
For the past seven years, Louise has run Hartwell’s Homeless small animal sanctuary from her home, picking up the pieces and saving lives.
“I became involved in animal rescue as a young child, when I would go out with my nan to trap feral cats and kittens for the Cats Protection League,” she told Pulse, “I was always bringing home injured wildlife, and the strays who seemed to find me.”
Showing compassion for our smaller breeds is a family trait – her parents Maisie and Brian are also active at Hartwell’s Homeless and have given up space at their own home to help with the saving and rehabilitation of animals, and Louise has friends who foster and help however they can.
“I set up the sanctuary because I was suffering from severe ill health and needed a focus,” Louise explained, “Having numerous health issues, I always had a passion for helping animals with medical problems and wanted to give them the best life possible.
“We are dedicated to helping the small animals most at risk of euthanasia or in immediate danger, specialising in animals with complex health and behaviour problems that are unable to be rehomed by rescues, and we offer them a permanent sanctuary with us.”
HH is not a rehoming centre, instead working as a foster space for those animals who can be rehomed: “We act as the middleman and keep them here until rescue spaces become available,” said Louise, who works with a number of local rescues for the good of those in need – regularly teaming up with Bunny Angels, The Excellent Adventure Guinea Pig Sanctuary, RSPCA Inspectorates and local RSPCA branches.
Though they are based in Hartwell – a stone’s throw away from Salcey Forest – they cast their net wide in the support of animals, working across Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes because of the woefully small number of reputable small animal rescues.
“My husband and I, my parents and friends all muck in together with the cleaning out, medicating and vet runs, and we go out trapping abandoned and stray animals...
“We currently have 20 rabbits, eight guinea pigs, two hamsters, and one chinchilla, and always try to squeeze in additional rescue cases,” she admitted, “Eight of the rabbits currently in our care were dumped in the wild.
“Since Covid, the rescue world has gone crazy. So many people took up breeding when there was already an animal crisis. The sad reality is there aren’t enough homes and
rescue spaces for the animals already here, without bringing more into the world.”
Louise is dreading the upcoming school holidays – or rather the fallout that follows each year.
“We always see an increase in small animals being dumped or needing to be rehomed after the school holidays,” she sighed, “Sadly, people see them as disposable and we get asked to take them in because the children are bored and the parents don’t have the time to care for them.
“Everyone wants them while they are cute babies and they get rid when they reach adulthood. We have had sick animals handed in because it is cheaper to buy a new pet than get veterinary care for the existing animal!
“Small animals are seen as easy to care for, when in reality they are costly, time consuming and complex.”
Right now, bunnies are faring especially badly.
“The situation with rabbits is the worst I’ve ever seen, and they are incredibly misunderstood animals. Years ago, hutches were used to keep rabbits in at the bottom of the garden and they were used for meat. Sadly, the practice of keeping them all in tiny hutches is something we still see and pet shops and breeders need to better educate people on the welfare requirements when considering taking on a rabbit.
“A permanent home for a rabbit should be 3x2x1 metres, predator proof and full of natural enrichment,” said Louise, sharing the essentials, “Both sexes need to be neutered to prevent cancers, spraying and hormonal and behavioural issues, and so that they can be bonded with other rabbits. “They are incredibly social creatures and need the company of their own kind to communicate with.
In 2023, Hartwell’s Homeless intakes were...
51 guinea pigs
11 hamsters
•
•
2 tortoises
3 gerbils
32 rabbits
6 budgies
• 4 mice
• 3 chinchillas
2 ducklings
“They also need annual vaccinations to protect against illnesses – we often get ‘aggressive’ females arriving here that people no longer want because of their territorial behaviour, when in reality they are hormonal, lonely and need neutering so they can then be bonded with a friend – when that has been sorted you will meet a calmer, much happier pet.”
The continuing crisis with soaring numbers of people wanting to give up their pets means there has been a huge spike in people abandoning them in the wild.
“It’s a weekly occurrence,” Louise told us, “Owners think that if they abandon them into a field or hedgerow they will live a lovely wild life. “The reality is that as a prey species they are killed by predators or hit by cars.
“A couple of years ago we were called to assist the RSPCA catch six baby rabbits abandoned at Knowlhill. Sadly, most were killed by dogs, or drowned in the water as they tried to escape the dogs. We caught two of them – and one died of shock soon after.”
There was only one survivor, and lucky little Knowl, as he was christened, now lives at home with the Norman family.
Teggy is another resident, and has been with the family for a year, He arrived in appalling condition.
“Teggy was found straying with back teeth that had huge pointed spurs, and just one wobbly front tooth.
“His mouth was so painful he was barely able to eat and was drooling so badly that he had painful sores on his chin and front legs,” she remembered, “He didn’t move at all and was terribly malnourished. He wasn’t strong enough to survive the surgery he so desperately needed.
“After a seven day stay at the vets we brought him home and syringe fed him to get his weight up.
“He slowly improved and became strong enough for surgery to burr down on the spurs on his back teeth. He now looks and acts like a totally different rabbit,” she smiled.
It’s a lovely little story of success against the odds, but if people were responsible to begin with, little Teggy – and others like him – wouldn’t need to endure such horrible situations.
Especially when the answer is so simple.
“We are having to turn away animals weekly from people desperate for help,” Louise admitted, “If people went to rescue centres to adopt animals it would create a space to save another life.
“The more people continue to buy from breeders and pet shops, the more they will continue to breed them for money.”
While you might be able to turn the page on this story, Louise can’t switch off from her work: “The only rest I get is when I’m asleep, but I often go to bed feeling awful at the animals I haven’t managed to help, and wake up full of anxiety.
“There are many days we feel like giving up and going back to a ‘normal’ life, but every single life matters and while we can’t save them all, we can make a difference to as many as possible and will keep fighting for them,” she said resolutely.
It’s not just a generosity of time that Louise and her family give – they use their own funds to care for and feed the animals. Simply, there are no paid staff. They do have an Amazon wish list where you can purchase supplies, or if you’d prefer, donations can be made directly to their veterinary account.
> Visit Hartwells Homeless Small Animal Sanctuary.
Attention thrill-seekers and water enthusiasts! Get ready for an adrenaline-packed summer as Aqua Parcs announces the return of its colossal ‘Mammoth’ obstacle for the 2024 season, starting May 4th. Standing tall at 30ft with a daring 20ft ‘cliff jump,’ the Mammoth promises heart-pounding excitement at Milton Keynes’ top attraction, as awarded in 2023.
In celebration, Aqua Parcs is giving you the chance to win one of 5 pairs of tickets, granting lucky winners access to the biggest summer attraction in MK. Winners will have the chance to conquer the Mammoth and explore the park’s new features in the Union, Aqua Glide, and Airspace sections.
Suitable for anyone aged 6 and over, 1.1m tall and able to swim 25m, Aqua Parcs is the award-winning family fun experience that is guaranteed to make a splash with the kids!
Safety remains a top priority at Aqua Parcs, with stringent measures in place and a Gold accreditation from The Royal Life Saving Society.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action – enter the competition now for a chance to win tickets to Aqua Parcs and make this summer one to remember!
Further details about booking and preparing for a visit can be found at www.aquaparcs.co.uk
Connect with Aqua Parcs on social media at: Facebook: www.facebook.com/AquaparcsUK Twitter: @aquaparcs Instagram: @aquaparcsmk
The
Milton Keynes Museum has launched a crowdfunding campaign to finally bring the area’s oldest known resident home to the history hub.
The Ichthyosaur fossil – believed to be in the region of 160 million years old - was revealed during excavation work for Caldecotte Lake, in 1982.
“When the Ichthyosaur was discovered, it was difficult to find somewhere suitable to display it - nowhere seemed anxious to take it,” said Museum director Bill Griffiths, “Fortunately, the library could offer the security needed. Now we are aiming to tell the history of our City in one place and the Ichthyosaur is a key part of that story.”
The fundraiser will allow the Ichthyosaur to become a permanent part of the Museum’s impressive new galleries which are set to open this autumn.
The Museum needs to raise £25,000 through the Art Fund backed appeal – and only has until May 20th to do it.
“It’s not as easy as simply removing the display case and bringing him to Wolverton,” said Bill, “If only it was!
“The fossil needs to be removed, examined and conserved so we don’t lose any of it, and to prevent it from corroding. We need to restore it
to pristine condition, and the structure housing it needs to be replaced.
“We really hope the public of Milton Keynes will rally and help us to raise the funds necessary for the restoration,” Bill said, “Our supporters are wonderfully loyal, and every penny really will count. “This is the oldest exhibit we’ll have in the Museum. It is intriguing for all, and will spark the imaginations of children, which is wonderful.
“That Milton Keynes had Ichthyosaurs swimming in our warm seas when the Dinosaurs ruled the land is part of our true history and that is what we are about.”
People donating to the fundraiser can choose from a number of incentives and awards – from enamel badges and limited edition artwork to hand-on experiences with never-beforeseen fossils.
You will even be able to suggest a name for MK’s friendly monster!
“It will be absolutely fantastic to have the Ichthyosaur coming to take centre stage in the story of ancient Milton Keynes,” added Bill, “It will welcome visitors just as Dippy, the Diplodocus, did in the Hall of the Natural History Museum.
“The Ichthyosaur and Dippy are about the same age, and while it may not be a dinosaur, and may not be as big as Dippy, unlike Dippy, our Ichthyosaur is a real fossil - not just a cast.
“If we are successful, I know that for years to come visitors to the Museum will take the Ichthyosaur to their hearts.”
> To donate to the campaign, please visit www.artfund.org/mkfossil
On this month's history pages, Keith Wootton speaks to Sammy Jones about the attraction of the humble grass cutter....
It's the club that really is a cut above the rest; The Old Lawnmower Club is all about the collection, preservation and display of old mowers.
This month at Milton Keynes Museum the annual Lawnmower Festival will see fans of the machinery assemble to inspect the many different lawnmowers housed on site, and to show off their own collections.
This year, a light will be shone on more unusual mowers too; and with almost 200 years of lawn mower development there have naturally been some odd designs that never quite caught on –quirky, unusual and impractical choices will also be shown.
“Before I became a regular volunteer at the museum, volunteers Neil Loudon and Arthur Finbow had acquired and restored a fairly extensive collection of mowers,” remembers Keith Wootton, one of the clubs' founders.
“In 1988 we were thinking of ideas for new events and I suggested “mowers” as something a bit different. We duly organised a get-together at the museum in May 1989 and this was attended by various people I had managed to find through local museums and vintage clubs.
“One of these was Andrew Grout from Aspley Guise and in a chat with him at the event we came up with the idea of forming a club. Andrew has been a member from the start and is now our chairman.”
Back in those early days, the museum served as the base for the club, but while that hasn't been so for the past couple of decades, the upcoming on-site rally remains an integral part of the museum's event calendar, and the history hub owns its own sharp collection of retro mowers.
Keith's own collection must surely make fellow hobbyists green with envy – he has amassed a large number of examples: “I have around 100 of them,” he says, “Twenty-five of which are motorised and the rest are hand-powered or push-along. Most of the mowers date from the 1920s and 30s and the hand mowers from the 1850s to the 1930s.
“Many members have several hundred machines in their collections and many of us have machines that are unique in some way and these are always interesting. However, there are plenty of members who are happy to have just one machine, perhaps a personal
connection or memory prompts this, and for them that is enough.”
The sound of the mower and the smell of freshly cut grass epitomises hazy summer days, and even though we don't all enjoy dragging the cutter around, we all love the results of a tidy and trim garden. But most of us relish the moment of putting the machines back in the shed. What is the attraction of mowers beyond that?
“Actually, my original interest was farming machinery and stationary engines. My first engine was given to me by my grandfather, a farmer at Deanshanger, and I took it to my first rally in 1978 a few days after my 15th birthday. When looking for the next 'project' my father suggested “that old mower” in the back of a shed at home. This turned out to be a 1921 Atco, the first year they were made, and when I took it to a steam rally with my engine it proved much more interesting to other exhibitors and visitors. I was offered several mowers as a result and that was how I started off.
“More generally, the interest is simply in the combination of old machinery and gardening.
The variety of designs is relatively large and there are plenty of mowers to collect, many at sensible pocket money prices.”
While some mowers will be available for dare we say, cut price figures, are there any examples that hold real value?
“Some of them have become quite valuable – but only a few very select models where the collectors know that the mower is very rare and they are unlikely to find another one.
“Most of those mowers will date from the 1850s to 1900. High values rely on several members wanting to buy them when they are available. For these, we might be talking about a thousand pounds or two. However, the vast majority are nowhere near this value and it is still possible to get a mower made well over 100 years ago for £10 or £20. Motor mowers made in the 1920s can be bought for under £100.”
And, just like many a collection, the holy grail of mowers varies from one person to another.
This
The club might exist to celebrate machinery which keeps things trim, but the club's membership is something that is flourishing – it now boasts more than 800 people worldwide.
“Most are relatively passive in that they don’t actively participate in the activity of the club. In general, everyone is interested in mowers and the collection, preservation, and display of them. We attend a number of events around the country as a club; museums, garden shows, vintage/steam rallies, and these are supported by our members.”
While individuals can amass large collections of mowers, the club itself owns no mowers, and is unable to accept donations, so don't start emptying out that garden shed in readiness. But if you do have aged examples to donate, the Old Lawnmower Club will certainly try to find the machines a new home among its membership.
“Our members have varied interests so a dream mower for one might not be of much interest to someone else,” Keith explains, “However, many of our members are always looking for Victorian hand mowers. We are aware of several models that were made in the very early years - say 1830s to 1860s - where we have never seen an example. So unearthing one of these would cause quite a stir.
“One type that I know many would want – but we know of no examples – is a genuine steam mower. These were made c1900 by just one or two manufacturers and I guess there were not very many made. There is one real example in a museum in the UK and another which is a copy of the same machine, but that’s it.”
With so much passion for the retro garden machinery, how do you feel about modern life – today, remote control mowers are all the rage. Thoughts on those?
“No problem with this at all, especially if removing the need to mow the lawn leaves more time for something more interesting,” Keith thinks, “In fact, there were attempts to produce remote controlled mowers in the 1950s. At one of our early rallies one of our members brought along a solar powered mower made just a few years before which was the forerunner of modern machines.”
Keith and his fellow collectors are obviously passionate about his grass roots movement, but what would you say to anyone who might think it a bit of a geeky hobby?
“Of course it is,” Keith agrees, “But so is collecting or obsessing about anything!”
> The club holds its annual rally at Milton Keynes Museum on Saturday, May 18 & Sunday, May 19.
> To find out more about The Old Lawnmower Club click to oldlawnmowerclub.co.uk
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It may be small, unused, overgrown and unloved… but that small parcel of land on your property that you have never really known what to do with could prove to be a goldmine.
Developers across Milton Keynes and the wider region are searching for available land on which to build. And if you are thinking about selling, take some professional advice on your options from a leading estate agent in the city.
Thomas Connolly Estate Agents is already advising property owners across the borough. There is a range of possibilities, which can include simply selling off land to the developer, working with the developer so the new building is one you are happy to have next door or, indeed, to build your dream new home on the plot before selling your current property.
“So many people have side gardens that they never use but they probably do not realise that anything with eight metres clearance from your house can be built on,” said Thomas Connolly’s managing director Joe Connolly. “We have developers waiting for land to become available and if anyone is interested in finding out about the possibilities for their plot, we would be only too happy to take them through the options.
“People have different ways of approaching this and we can help them every step of the way.”
Some are happy to sell the land to a developer and take the profit. Others are after more control and involvement in the building process all the way through. Some prefer to maintain a share in the project, with an agreed share of any profit after completion.
The specialist Land and New Homes department at Thomas Connolly Estate Agents - the fastest growing estate agency in Milton Keynes - has already completed a range of such deals. Its connections with developers are
also creating other opportunities - conversions of ‘quirky’ buildings such as chapels or a telephone exchange, for example.
It is talking to pub operators and breweries on options for outside space and car parking on their premises.
“We are not talking about acres of land or unused fields,” said Joe. “We have developers crying out for parcels of land or for land with barns or brick buildings for conversion or development and we want to hear from people who might have land that can be used.”
Contact Thomas Connolly Estate Agents for advice on your options is Joe’s call to landowners. Finding a profitable way to bring unused land back into use creates a welcome injection of cash, he added.
“But it often takes an expert eye to identify the potential.
“We work with some of the largest and most recognised names in property development in the UK who are keen to invest in land for building. If we can help people turn a profit on land they are not using, that is a win-win.”
Thomas Connolly Estate Agents is a specialist in property sales, lettings, land agency and new homes. Its team of experienced staff based in The Hub, Central Milton Keynes, are on hand to advise clients on buying and selling, managing and letting property and on overseas purchases.
> To find out more contact
Joe Connolly on 07769 586332, email joe@tcmk.co.uk or visit www.tcmk.co.uk
Selected by a jury of 100 distinguished automotive journalists representing 29 countries, the World Car Awards recognised the Kia EV9’s innovative design, spacious sevenseat interior, and competitive price point. Based on the E-GMP platform, the EV9 is the first Kia to feature fourth-generation battery technology for improved performance.
Established in 2003, the World Car Awards are renowned globally as a premier standard for automotive excellence and leadership, celebrating remarkable accomplishments within a rapidly changing automotive industry. Prior to the 2024 event, Kia had already claimed three wins at the World Car Awards – the Telluride as World Car of the Year and the Soul EV as World Urban Car in 2020, along with the Kia EV6 GT taking World Performance Car of the Year in 2023.
The 2024 Kia EV9 has achieved a remarkable dual victory at the 2024 World Car Awards. Revealed during a live announcement at the World Car Awards ceremony at the New York Auto Show, the EV9 secured prestigious titles for both World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle.
“We are hugely honoured that the 2024 EV9 has been named the World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle. This triumph is a testament to our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and design excellence. The Kia EV9’s continued success will drive us to keep delivering exceptional vehicles that redefine the driving experience for customers around the world,” Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia said. Two wins in the World Car Awards add to an already impressive haul of accolades for the 2024 Kia EV9. Since its introduction as Kia’s first dedicated three-row EV SUV, the EV9 has
collected a number of prizes, including winning the ‘Family Cars’ category of the Golden Steering Wheel Awards, the 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, and ‘Best Premium SUV’ at the 2023 Newsweek Autos Awards.
“EV9 is a clear representation of Kia’s vision, and further evidence of our dedication to quality. This award cements Kia’s standing as the frontrunner in sustainable mobility solutions that go beyond conventional automobiles.
We share this honour with our global teams who contributed their utmost efforts to drive EV9’s success,” said Sean Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America.
This month’s Pulse Pics is all about the birds and the bees... in a manner of speaking!
Some truly amazing images, and all snapped in our locality...
“You don’t
. See more of his images on Twitter: @PhillCrowe and Insta: @uk_birds_and_wildlife
But the buzz doesn’t usually extend to her car! “Not what we were expecting, but what an amazing thing to see,” Mandy said of her brush with a bee swarm.
Luckily, David Odell – who runs the Odell business in the town – is a beekeeper and safely removed and relocated them. Apparently, they were all well be-hived!
Moreton-In-Marsh Market Day
£27 Per person.
The largest street market in the Cotswolds with many stalls selling anything from leather goods, books, fresh produce, clothing and much more. Visit this lovely Cotswold town and bag a bargain.
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 Moreton-in-Marsh at 15.00pm
Hunstanton
£27 Adult, £17 per child 16yrs or under.
The elegant resort of Hunstanton is the ideal base to enjoy Norfolk’s superb coastline. Its excellent beach offers ideal conditions for playing on the sand, exploring rock pools and enjoying the sea.
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 7.30am
CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 7.50am
Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.10am
Hunstanton at 17.00pm
Stratford Upon Avon Leisure Day
£27 Adult, £17 per child 16yrs or under.
Explore Shakespeare’s birthplace, visit his grave at Holy Trinity Church, enjoy a scenic cruise on the River Avon, and experience the charm of this historic town’s quaint streets and vibrant culture.
Adventure island thrill rides not included in the price.
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.00am
CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.20am
Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.40am
Stratford Upon Avon at 16.00pm
Waterperry Gardens
£35.00 Per person, includes entrance fee and Garden tour which lasts approx one hour. Made famous by Beatrix Havergal who established her School of Horticulture for Ladies there from 1932 to 1971, it’s now home to 8 acres of beautifully landscaped ornamental gardens, a quality plant centre and garden shop, gallery and gift shop, museum and tea shop. Wander through stunning floral displays, explore the peaceful orchards, attend a gardening workshop, and relax in the serene atmosphere of this botanical paradise.
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 9.30am
CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 9.50am
Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 10.10am Oxford at 15.30pm
Kensington Palace
£55 Adult, £50 Over 65s, £32 per child 5-15yrs, £17 per infant 4yrs and under. Includes entrance fee. Kensington Palace was the favourite residence of successive sovereigns until 1760. It was also the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria. Today it contains the offices and London residences of The Prince and Princess of Wales, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, The Duke and Duchess of Kent and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent and is home to the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection, with items dating from the 18th century to the present day.
Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.30am
CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.50am
Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 9.10am London at 16.00pm
daytrips@billscoachhire.co.uk | www.billscoachhire.co.uk
Stacey Bushes, 1 Hollin Lane, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK12 6HT
Looking good on the outside starts with what’s going on inside – and getting plenty of shut-eye is imperative for the skin. They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing! But what to do if you are sleep deprived? Here are some clever ideas. Putting this page together was a dream job...
Love Hemp Sweet Dreams Night Time
Gummies are a sleep supplement to support relaxation and aid the quality of your pillow time. This month-long supply of CBD gummies bring together cannabidiol extract with five slumberenhancing ingredients including lavender, valerian root and passionflower. Each gummy contains 10mg of CBD and they are completely plant-based.
Enjoy their pleasant cherry flavour between 60 and 90 minutes before bedtime to aid relaxation and get you ready for shut-eye.
Get it: lovehemp.com
RRP: £24.99
Lush has quietly sold its Dream Time Temple Balm exclusively in its spa stores for years, but now the blissful brand has made it available at all its stores. Lush promises its balm will ‘bring you down gently,’ and means you can enjoy comfort on the go, and it contains chamomile blue oil to induce sleepy time. You can enjoy cosy clouds of sweet lavender with the Lush Sleepy Bubble Bar, with its reassuring embrace of lavender, tonka, and ylang ylang oils. Crumble under the tap while you run a bath and then reap the rewards.
Get it: lush.com
RRP: £10 (balm) £7 (bubble bar)
Once you’ve let the bath water caress your skin, finish off your night-time routine with Botanics’ Sleep Nourishing Massage & Body Oil
Warm between your palms and massage into your skin – Botanics harness the power of plants to soothe mind and body, and this oil utilises the power of sweet marjoram, and Bulgarian lavender - known as much for its medicinal properties as its fragrance.
Get it: boots.com or stores in centre:mk in Milton Keynes or in Northampton’s Grosvenor Centre
RRP: £9.50
Silvan Skincare has a soothing Sleep Balm to help you escape into the land of dreams. Massage into your temples, chest, back and feet and let the goodness do its thing. Shea butter, apricot oil, oat extract, chamomile and soothing sandalwood will calm and relax. Sleep Balm doesn’t have to be avoided until bedtime though – if stress is creeping in, reach for it in the day too, to restore calm.
Get it: counterculturestore.co.uk RRP: £18.50
Soothe away the stresses of the day in a warm bath with Soap & Glory’s Perfect Zen Calming Bath Milk and relax!
This bath buddy is fragranced with a blend of lavender and tonka bean, and the vegan formula is a hydration success. It can also be used as a shower gel and body wash and makes going tension free that little bit easier.
Indulge in a cocoon of calm.
Don’t mind if we do.
Get it: boots.com or stores in centre:mk in Milton Keynes or in Northampton’s Grosvenor Centre
RRP: £6.99
Artah Sleep Tonic delivers a sedative, soothing effect, but with none of the ‘next morning’ drowsiness that often follows prescription remedies. Calming and mood enhancing, it’s great for bedtime support, but can also come to the aid if jet lag or anxiety is a consideration. Take 3ml with water half an hour before bedtime and dream on.
Get it: artah.co RRP: £32
Costumes Performances Music
Saturday 8th June
From 12 Noon to 7.30pm
Racecourse Park Northampton, NN1 4LG
Live Entertainment on stage
Spectacular Parade
Exciting Fun Fair
Wide range of Stalls
Carnival is coming… and we’re getting into the rhythm!
Get ready to immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of cultures and celebrate diversity at Northampton Carnival 2024! As the town gears up for its annual extravaganza, Northampton invites you to join in the festivities and experience the magic of “A Festival for All Cultures.”
Mark your calendars for Saturday 8th June as The Racecourse, Kettering Road, Northampton, transforms into a hub of excitement and cultural exchange from 12 noon onwards. Step into a world of entertainment on the Main Stage, where a stellar lineup awaits to captivate audiences of all ages.
We are delighted to announce the headliners this year is the awesome REPRO JAM SQUAD! Sway to the classical melodies of Ebony Mae Pallister, and the dynamic contemporary performance of Malcolm Dunn & Friends. Joining the lineup are African Drummers, CBlock Muzic, Shirley-Marie and a host of Visiting Troupes, ensuring an unforgettable musical journey around the globe. Plus, enjoy the beats spun by resident DJs from Inspiration FM and DJ Decka from Set It Off Sounds
Prepare to be dazzled as the parade sets off from the park at 2 pm, adorned with a stunning array of costumes representing cultures from every corner of the world. From Kettering Road to Abington Square, and
back via Wellingborough Road and Abington Ave to The Racecourse, witness the vibrant tapestry of Northampton’s cultural heritage come to life before your eyes.
No carnival experience is complete without indulging in delicious global cuisines. Satisfy your taste buds with authentic Caribbean, Asian, African, and traditional English delicacies, alongside tempting treats for the sweet tooth. And while you’re there, enjoy the thrills of the funfair, explore ethnic arts and crafts, and discover a wealth of local information and well-being stalls.
Join us in celebrating diversity, inclusion, and community spirit at Northampton Carnival 2024. Whether you’re representing your heritage or simply embracing the richness of cultures from around the world, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Scan the code to find out more or visit us online at: northamptoncarnival.co.uk
Put the date Saturday 8th June in your diary to attend the Northampton Carnival at The Racecourse, Kettering Road, Northampton, NN1 4LG. You won’t want to miss this magical day …the perfect outing for the entire family!
SUMMER’S drawing closer, and soon to be ruler of wardrobes, is all things grande, geometric and topped with gold.
More than grid prints, giant jewellery and jauntily-placed dodecahedrons, the trend sees prints in opulent colours, meet decadent details. Think: rich orange, lilac, purple and the reds I’ve mentioned for a few issues now, plus protractorshaped pleating and metallic finishing touches that want to look you square in the eye.
To wear it, learn from the fun logo play at Fendi, checkerboard sequins at Versace, Missoni’s warped take on its favourite stripes, and the blurry digital prints at Bottega Veneta. See the runways at Tove and Missoni for sunset-hued geo-prints, where patterns were on repeat, headto-toe.
Just don’t forget: whether you choose checks, zig-zags, or abstract shapes, add a touch of class with statement gold, sun-catching accessories. Grade A Summer dressing.
(Bedford Village- Near Olney)
Working on a Contracted and Ad hoc shift basis as a *Freelance Female Personal Assistant*
Enabling a lovely lady to live independently by assisting her in her home and in the community as required. (No care experience necessary as training is given)
You will be: Reliable,Trustworthy,Compassionate and possess Client Relation Skills as it is a 1-1 role.
You must be: A Non-Smoker, Physically Fit and have a Full UK, Clean Driving Licence and be a Competent Driver.
You must have: Your own vehicle to run errands. You will be insured to drive the client in her Motability Vehicle.
Applications by Email to Hope: hope.empathycare@btinternet.com
Providing details of your working background, your availability and suitability for the role. References and checks will be required. (Private Advert-we are not a Care organisation)
Providing 1-1
Empathy & Care
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Serves: 2
2 tsp olive oil
2 x 200g packs Waitrose Early British Asparagus, trimmed and cut into 4cm lengths
Bunch salad onions, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 pointed spring cabbage, halved and shredded (thick core discarded)
1 green chilli, sliced
Few drops lemon juice
20g feta cheese, crumbled
4 Waitrose British Blacktail Free Range Eggs
1. Heat a large frying pan over a high heat. Add 1 tsp oil, season the asparagus and fry, turning now and then, until charred in places, for about 3 minutes; lift out of the pan and set aside.
2. Lower the heat, add the remaining 1 tsp oil and sauté the salad onions, garlic and cumin for 1 minute. Throw in the cabbage and half the chilli, season and fry for 3 minutes, tossing regularly. Add the lemon juice, half the feta and the asparagus. Turn the heat to medium-low.
3. Using a spoon, make 4 holes in the mix of vegetables, then crack in the eggs. Cover the pan with a large sheet of foil (it doesn’t need to be very tight) and leave for 5-7 minutes, until the whites are set but the yolks are still soft. Uncover, take off the heat and season the eggs. Serve scattered with the remaining chilli and feta.
A limited crop of British early asparagus is available in April (the main crop is May). It has a slightly sweeter flavour and subtle purple tint to the tip.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose. Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.
At last – spring is here! We may cautiously begin to ventilate the greenhouse as daytime temperatures rise. The door and louvres may be opened slightly during the day and closed overnight. A thermometer is essential for recording maximum and minimum temperatures. A moderate range is desirable.
We have sown more courgettes, pumpkins and squash seeds in our collection of recycled pots with much success. We have also made sowings of a mixture of salad crops at fortnightly intervals in a series of large pots to see if we can produce a succession of leaves over a long period of time.
We are potting on the tomato plants, variety Sun Baby, a yellow fruited cherry tomato, with the intention of growing some in a growing bag in the greenhouse, some in large 20lt pots and others in a row in a raised bed. We will plant these deeply, as the extra root growth will help to anchor the plant more securely.
If you’ve a passion for gardening and want a new challenge to get stuck into, Simpson Garden Club is ready and waiting to hear from you.
The club is relatively small with just less than 30 members, but with your help things can grow – quite literally!
The club has been active for the past 13 years and the results of members’ handiwork can be seen across the pretty village. “The open spaces that we look after include the War Memorial which we have planted up with roses and heuchera, and we look after a larger piece of land close to the village hall,” said social secretary Jane Anderson, “... over the years that had been a wildflower meadow and a herbaceous border, but they both proved tricky to maintain so recently we have grassed it and planted four fruit trees in a nod to the history of the village, as Simpson used to have a few orchards,” explained Jane.
perennials, bulbs and herbs. The space is home to three of our heritage apple trees.
“We also look after the village signs and the street signs which have been planted with a mix of bulbs, perennials and seasonal bedding.”
Even when they are not looking after the real blooms by weeding, soil turning and planting, members can be found creating everlasting types: “We have been involved in using red knitted poppies around the memorial during Armistice and other commemorative events,” Jane said.
“There are now three apple trees and one cherry tree in place.”
Just as with our own gardens, there is always something to do in and around the village, and the Simpson Garden Club participants are dedicated – their efforts figure on dinner plates throughout the village, too: “We have planted up two herb beds with a mix of thyme, rosemary, bay, mint and coriander which locals are encouraged to pick, and we have a community garden planted with shrubs,
As with many other gardening groups, Simpson also holds talks, welcoming guests to share their wisdom with the assembled in the village hall. Past speakers have included RHS Gold Medal winners, garden designers, houseplant experts and garden centre managers.
Later this year they will be joined by Martin Towsey, Estates Manager at Woburn Abbey, and The Parks Trust, who will be explaining why hedgehogs really are a gardeners best friend.
“We’re a friendly bunch and members will be able to meet like-minded people with a shared love of gardening,” Jane added, “We never stop learning either, so everyone is guaranteed to gain more knowledge,” she promised.
> For more details on upcoming talks, or membership visit FB and search for SimpsonGardenGroup
The pepper plants face a similar future and they are being hardened off.
The broad bean plants, raised under cloches, will now benefit from having their tips pinched off, encouraging pod development lower down and deterring black fly infestation.
We are continuing to earth-up our potatoes, (three tubers to a large pot) almost all of them showing healthy growth.
The rows of beetroot, carrots, radishes and plug-grown lettuce are thriving, benefitting from careful weeding with a Dutch hoe.
Many tulips will have flowered and should have their dead flowers snapped off at the stalk, which, with the leaves, will send down nourishment to the bulb.
All is well!
With growing concerns about our carbon footprint, and energy prices continuing to rise, many homeowners are turning to solar energy to help power their homes and protect themselves against inflation.
A solar energy system is made up of panels, which harness energy from the sun, inverters, which convert the current from DC to AC so it’s usable in your home, and battery storage, so energy generated during daylight hours is used in the evening, when more people are likely to be home. Excess energy is then fed back into the grid for which you may receive a small payment from one of the energy companies.
If saving money is your priority, the ideal system is one which minimises electricity used from the grid, and maximises the use of energy generated by the installation. If your aim is to help save the planet from carbon emissions you may want to have as large a system as possible given the roof size whatever your own energy usages needs are.
Therefore, it’s important to understand your requirements, current usage, and preferred outcomes in order to specify the best solution and work out potential savings and benefits.
Custom Solar is part of the Custom Glaze group providing energy efficient home improvements for nearly 42 years.
Custom Solar’s MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) installations provide a complete energy solution for your specific roof. MCS is a ‘must have’ for your installation in order to be paid for any excess electricity fed back into the National grid.
Custom Solar’s products, from leading manufacturers, carry some of the longest guarantees available, and ensure high energy yield maximizing return on investment. They work out the size, orientation and angle of your roof and factor in obstructions or shading, in order to design a system to meet your needs and to work out the cost and likely savings. All necessary permissions and certification are obtained on your behalf and they organise their own scaffolding, roofing and electrical experts to complete your installation.
> For a free quote call Custom Solar on 01908 014566 or visit www.customsolarmk.co.uk
With over 35 years experience designing bathrooms, the team at Ripples understands that the process can sometimes be daunting. Its designers are experts on all aspects of bathrooms and here, Designer Erin White from the award nominated Ripples showroom in Towcester answers some of the most commonly asked bathroom-related questions.
QWith Pinterest, Instagram, and other great tools, can’t I just design my bathroom myself? Do I really need a bathroom designer?
Although there are a lot of great tools out there to give you style inspiration these days, there are so many other things to be considered when designing a bathroom. Considerations around plumbing, electrics and room layout are best handled by a professional. If you are anything like me, you will have a lot of images on your Pinterest boards or magazine collection, encompassing a number of different styles. A Ripples designer can work with you to narrow down your choices, incorporating your inspiration into one cohesive scheme. Designers can also take the stress out of sourcing all of the product for your space, using their specialist knowledge to find the
products which will work best for you. This will give you more time to focus on the more fun parts of your project!
Q What lighting do I need in a bathroom?
The first level of lighting needed for all bathrooms will be either downlights or a central light. This is controlled by one switch and gives you the overall lighting needed for general use and cleaning. The next level of lighting is task lighting. This could include lighting within your mirror or wall lights either side of the mirror. Wherever possible, go for side rather than top lighting to give a good overall lighting with minimal shadows – perfect for getting ready on dark winter mornings. The next level of lighting to consider is mood lighting. Low level lighting is key in a bathroom especially one with a bath or in an en-suite. This can be incorporated in soft spot lighting or strip lighting on top of recesses, by a bath or underneath a vanity unit. Having this on a separate switch means early mornings, late nights and even any middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom are not disturbed by bright lights coming on. In a family bathroom, you may also want to consider a PIR (passive infrared) sensor. As children get older, they can then go into the bathroom at night on their own and lights will automatically come on.
Q
What are some quick tips for creating a more eco-friendly bathroom?
Heating: opt for dual fuel heating as this can dramatically reduce energy usage in your home. You can control dual fuel radiators with a timer and use heated towel rails to heat the bathroom, without having to heat the rest of the home.
Lighting: LED spotlights and feature lighting use approximately 85% less energy than traditional bulbs.
Extractor fans: choosing an extractor fan with a built-in timer and/or humidity sensor will use less energy as it switches off when not in use.
Surfaces: glass surfaces are one of the greenest options available as they can keep being recycled again and again.
Cold-start taps: cold-start taps are normal mixer taps which start running cold water first. These are great if you have a combi boiler as they don’t kick in unless you manually change the mixer across to hot.
> Visit Ripples Towcester at 2 Roman Corner, Northampton Road, Towcester, NN12 6LD head to ripplesbathrooms.com or call 01327 368233 for more information.
Cerulean Blue, the hue of tranquil seas and clear skies, brings a breath of fresh air into any home as we approach the summer season. Its vibrant yet soothing presence offers a versatile charm that seamlessly bridges the gap between modernity and timeless elegance.
If you’re looking for ways to refresh your space and add a little more colour into your day to day, explore our curated collection.
FEATURED BRANDS... If you would like to see your brand or business featured in Pulse, in print or online get in touch: mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk
In a world of misunderstandings, explore the transformative impact of youth work. Beyond stereotypes, it empowers and fosters resilience, essential in today’s challenges. Discover how it shapes empowered individuals, offering strength and adaptability in uncertain times.
Contrary to popular belief, youth work is so much more than playing ping pong. When done right, youth work is the vehicle to empower young people to advocate for their rights, to challenge the structures and systems that oppress them, and to provide a trusted adult relationship that can be transformational for young people who don’t have their emotional needs met elsewhere. Youth workers interact with young people in a way which centres them and their experience, often at odds with other professionals in their lives, and this unique way of working is vital if we are to build resilient and independent young adults.
At YMCA Milton Keynes & Northamptonshire, we work on the principle that we all have nine emotional needs which we will find a way to meet either positively or negatively. This is based on the Human Givens approach devised by Joe Griffin and Ivan Tyrrell. These nine emotional needs include security, attention, control, meaning and purpose, privacy, community, intimacy, status and achievement. One of the reasons organised crime groups are so successful at targeting, grooming, and exploiting children and young people is because so many of them are not
having their emotional needs positively met leaving them vulnerable to the offer of security, community and status that a gang offers regardless of the potential risks.
They also prey on the developmental stage that all teenagers go through. Dr John Coleman shared in his book The Teacher and the Teenage Brain that our brain develops at the same fast rate as it develops from 0–3 years old during puberty. Throw in that the teenage brain is wired for seeking risk and reward and primarily focused on social interactions and how we are perceived by others, and we can see that this is a crucial time to ensure children and young people are getting their emotional needs met in a positive way.
The well documented decimation of youth work across the country has left a gap of positive activity on the ground
in local communities that those with more nefarious aims have seized upon. Young people used to have regular contact with a variety of trusted adult role models, but since COVID, more and more young people are choosing to only access social spaces online. There is a place for digital youth work, and this is a growing and exciting field, but there is also an urgent need to see a return to regular youth work sessions in the local community that provide opportunities for young people to develop their emotional and social skills in a safe physical environment with adults they respect and trust.
YMCA Milton Keynes has been very grateful for the support of Milton Keynes Community Foundation, who have provided funding that has enabled us to develop our youth and community offer.
Kat Newman Director of Youth and CommunityIf you would like to find out more about our work or wish to share your thoughts with me on any of the above, please do get in touch. Email: kat.newman@mkymca.com
Milton Keynes is known internationally for being at the forefront of growth in Tech and Artificial Intelligence in recent years. We are home to the world’s largest fleet of our much-loved autonomous delivery robots and have even hosted the European Robotics league competition twice, in 2019 and 2023!
We have recently announced that Milton Keynes City Council and The Open University are teaming up to promote MK as one of the world’s leading smart cities through the successful MK:Smart initiative.
With more than 20 organisations involved, MK:Smart began ten years ago, with the aim of introducing large scale technology trials to Milton Keynes in order to research and demonstrate how cities around the world could improve standards for their citizens through innovation, with specific work into sustainable transport, energy use and water consumption. The initiative saw Milton Keynes become the first place in the UK to trial a driverless car and laid the foundations for our popular much-loved delivery robots.
While high tech research projects continue today in the city, MK:Smart as a project officially ended in 2017. Now, partners will be returning to MK:Smart to remind the academic and business community that Milton Keynes is a brilliant place to run ‘living laboratory’ tests and trials. A new MK Smart website can be found at www.mksmart.org.
We don’t plan to stop anytime soon – currently, we have several live trials taking place in the city such as self-driving shuttles, urban drone deliveries which could revolutionise the supply of emergency medicines and advanced radio communications, furthering our enviable smart city reputation. The city is even developing its own dedicated 5G network solely for research use.
It is only fitting that the first multi-national agreement on the future of Artificial Intelligence – the Bletchley Declaration – was signed in our city at Bletchley Park, a site of global significance for technological revolutions. Milton Keynes had already been identified as having “clear scope to be a global destination for future waves of innovation-led growth in the application of AI.”
The MK AI Report identified Milton Keynes as a UK leader in AI and outlined the city’s investment in educating the next
generation of talent through MK College’s Institute of Technology and with our plans for the Open University.
The City Council has also published a five-year Technology, Smart City, Digital and Creative Industries Strategy to grow the city’s global reputation as a smart city and home of innovation. The new Strategy sets out a vision for how Milton Keynes can build on this strong position by, among other goals:
• Creating a Smart City, Tech, Design and Innovation Quarter in Central Milton Keynes.
• Generating new opportunities that will create skilled local jobs and develop home-grown creative talent.
• High profile events such as a new commission by Skymagic – the world’s leading drone light show company – who later this year will present a spectacular new performance exploring the future of the city.
• Making the case for Milton Keynes to be the home of the UK hub for AI regulation and standards.
• Focusing on artificial intelligence, data science, smart city technologies, robotics and advanced communications.
CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 252442
Email: peter.marland@milton-keynes.gov.uk
Facebook: @mklabour
ADDRESS: c/o Milton Keynes City Council, Civic Offices, 1 Saxon Gate East, Milton Keynes MK9 3EJ
As their mayoral term concludes, the departing Mayor and Mayoress fondly recall significant visits from their year in office. From community initiatives to cultural exchanges, they reflect on the moments that defined their service to the city.
We are approaching the end of our Mayoral year and we have had an amazing time. We have met some inspirational people and it has been a real pleasure seeing lots of organisations across the city and beyond making a real difference to their communities. We are proud to live in a diverse, vibrant and community-based city and hope we have been the ‘window to the world’ for these organisations, shining a light on their incredible work. You make a real difference to people’s lives and we thank you for everything you do to make our city a better place. You give our city a heart and a soul!
So, even though it is a bit like asking a parent to choose their favourite child, in our last column this month we select some of our highlights to share with you.
Our two charities, child bereavement support specialists, Harry’s Rainbow and SOFEA, who tackle food insecurity and food waste, have worked hard alongside us, raising funds through the half marathon with Harry’s Rainbow, the charity golf day, charity disco bingo and much more, collectively raising in excess of £25K (final figure to come soon). We are proud of all you do to make life better for so many people.
The Half Marathon, was an amazing achievement for the Mayor, who trained tirelessly over six months, with support from Redway Runners and The Good Gym
Health, Milton Keynes Voluntary Sector Alliance and YMCA MK and welcomes guest speaker and author Steve Chalke. She was also proud to be invited to speak at the launch of The Lodge, a group set up by Scott Poulter, to provide mental health support for women, following the phenomenal success of his mental health support for men, The Man Cave. More than 180 women attended which shows what a massive need there is this type of support.
It was incredibly hard coming uphill through Campbell Park to the finish line. Around £18K was raised by the 87 runners who took part in this Mayoral fundraising event for Harry’s Rainbow. Well done to everyone who joined us.
Through our Health and Wellbeing Theme, the Mayoress has raised awareness of mental illness and worked hard to reduce the stigma by sharing her own inspirational journey. She enjoyed bringing together more than 20 of the organisations supporting young people with their mental health and wellbeing, to look at the issue creatively. This has culminated in a joint event planned for May with Public
Selecting some events that have had a big impact on us: the Mayor has loved going back to his schools, Abbeys Primary School and Lord Grey, sharing stories of his school years and progress from pupil to Mayor, inspiring young people to think about what they also might be able to achieve in life, whatever their starting point.
The Mayoress worked in community arts for the first 20 years of her career, so particularly enjoyed the IF: International Festival 2023, her favourite show being Place des Anges and its mesmerising overhead night sky spectacular. The beautiful hanging flowers in the Middleton Hall, The Place Between - an installation created by community groups and residents from across the city with artist, Rebecca Louise Law and soundscapes by Jason Singh. Incredible. India Day with 15,000 in the audience in
Campbell Park with its colourful and vibrant dance and music performances. MKIAC Codes of Light illuminated the city centre with its colourful projections and parade to Campbell Park.
The Mayor and Mayoress both enjoyed the year supporting MK Dons F.C. who, following last season’s drop in division will (hopefully) go back up this season, if not in the automatics then the play offs next month. Fingers Crossed!
It was also great to see the whole city come together to achieve the Guinness World Records’ record for the longest line of cans, led by MK Food Bank and the inspirational Louisa Hobbs, who was acknowledged for this achievement with Outstanding Contribution Award for MK Can at this year’s Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards
We are such a Can Do City!
We have also made history with our first Youth Mayor of Milton Keynes, Chloe D’Souza and she has set an extremely high bar for future Youth Mayors to follow, such an incredible public speaker. We have just been to the ceremony for the handing over to the second Youth Mayor, Maggie Beckett and we wish her success for her term of office. And we must not forget MK shining on the world stage with the AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park. Incredible.
As we continue to enjoy our last few weeks in office, we sign off saying, thank you to everyone in Milton Keynes who brought our year to life in such an incredible way.
Councillor Mick Legg, Mayor of Milton Keynes mayorsoffice@milton-keynes.gov.uk 01908 253601 mayorMK
What happens when you are given the privilege of delivering a video for one of the most iconic songs ever written?
Luke McDonnell and Dan Gibling, directors of Stony Stratford-based Chiba Film, told Pulse’s Sammy Jones.
Some songs are simply so big that they outgrow the genre in which they are seated. Deep Purple’s Smoke on the Water is one of those songs. The opening riff is instantly recognisable, and the track has a chorus to match.
It’s a rock belter considered one of the best tracks of all time – hardly surprising then that it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2017.
More than 50 years since its release and the band has just issued its first video for Smoke on the Water Chiba Film were tasked with delivering a visual treat to match the sounds.
“As custodians of the visuals for one of the greatest rock songs of all time, we had to get it right, both for the new and older fans,” Dan told Pulse, “The weight of the task wasn’t something we took lightly.
“Attention to detail was key - every depiction of the band, every historical reference, and every easter egg for the fans had to be perfect.
“Luke and I worked on it full time for four months, and the animators and rest of the team for about two months. It was quite an endeavour, but it has paid off well in terms of people’s reactions,” Dan explained.
“The modern style of illustration and animation really helped give us an aesthetic that we felt a younger audience would latch
on to, so we tried to utilise this form to allow for as much of the fantastical, trippy and fun as we could - without eroding from the initial cool of a song from an era where music videos did not even exist,” he added.
“It was a fine line to say the least, and one that caused a great deal of re-draws and discussion,” explained Luke, “The song is itself a story, which meant we had no shortage of inspiration for the scenes that accompany the music.
“Our idea for the video is centred around the fact that the band were under pressure to make this record on time after the events that unfolded at the casino. We wished to depict all these events and band members respectfully, but also elevate the music video into an exciting action packed chase that sees the band pursued by the stylus as they ride along the deep grooves of the record.
“On their journey we visit the places and heroes mentioned in the song, as well as encounters with fire, water, smoke, police and even dragons as they strive to take control of the record stylus and cut their track into the vinyl...we hope we have created an accompanying adventure that existing and new fans will feel honours the gravitas of this song.”
Chiba had already delivered two well-received videos for Deep Purple.
Smoke on the Water, unsurprisingly, is set to eclipse those earlier successes.
“The last video clocked up a million views in six months, and the Smoke video has already been viewed more than one and a half million times, and the comments have been amazing,” Dan smiled, “It blows my mind to think how many people have engaged and watched our work, and seemingly how much pleasure it has given
to people. It is so nice to be involved in a project where the feedback and love for the work matches the effort put in.”
Directing this video might have been all consuming, but it was the ultimate labour of love for its creators: “It was a dream job!” Dan says, quick as a flash, “Most of our team are musicians and play in bands, and we all grew up on rock music.
“This song is huge and to have the opportunity to make the music video for it has been incredible.
“I listened to Smoke about 100 times whilst coming up with the idea for this video. I don’t see how you can get inside a song fully and manifest visuals to it unless you can understand every single musical nuance, crescendo, groove and accent.
“We pushed ourselves hard for this, but then it is arguably the greatest rock n roll track in the world...”
> For the latest Deep Purple news visit deeppurple.com
A show with plenty of bark and bite
Ferocious Dog will release their new album on May 17, and to support Kleptrocracy the band has announced a 14-date tour, which comes to MK11 at the end of the month.
Kleptocracy is the follow-up to the thought provoking, politically charged sextet’s album, The Hope, which made it straight to the top spot in the official UK & Ireland Folk Album Charts.
In a statement, the band said, “Kleptocracy delves into themes of societal injustices and the enduring struggle against exploitation, echoing the band’s commitment to shedding light on the issues plaguing Broken Britain and our world today. In typical Ferocious Dog fashion the album is a mix up of all sorts of genres!
“To name a few of the influences that appear: Celtic folk, gypsy folk, blues, dissident folk, pop punk, full on hardcore punk, and
straight up rock. However, despite the many styles, primarily this album in particular goes back to a more classic folk punk sound.”
The band’s line-up has been refreshed, and so too has their sound – but it definitely will still appeal to the fans: “...even though this album has the same undercurrent as all Ferocious Dog albums, it is faster, more rocky and a closer reflection of our live show,” they promised.
Ferocious Dog will play the venue on May 31.
Also coming to the Kiln Farm venue this month, a tidy number of tributes:
Ed Sheeran Songbook with Jack Bowater – May 10
Motley Crude – May 17
Rammlied – The Rammstein Party – May 18
Special Kinda Madness – May 25
Chasing Mumford – May 26
> Visit mk11kilnfarm.com to secure your tickets.
If you’ve got the ills, this lot have got the cure!
The Cureheads (May 3) have spent the best part of 35 years playing homage to Robert Smith’s crew, and their Craufurd Arms show sees them following in the footsteps of the real deal – The Cure played the Wolverton haunt way back in 1979.
The Lovecats will be purr-fectly accompanied by Siouxsie and the Budgiees
Following time on the road with The Damned in 2023, post-punkers The Nightingales are coming our way to play (May 5), as part of their dubiously titled Off The Beaten Track tour. This date is the closest they’ll get to the big smoke on this jaunt. Support is coming from comedian Ted Chippington
“As sure as eggs is eggs, it will be a cracker,” is the promise. Best scramble for tickets – it’s a Bank Holiday weekend too, so no excuses to stay home.
InMe (May 6) are back in the Keynes with the Dave McPherson led rock mob saying the show – part of the Secret Superpower tour – marks a new chapter for the band.
“A new beginning. We’ve written the best album of our lives, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Come and hear some brand new music from our new album which is out later this year, as well as all of the classics and bangers.”
The noisiest night of the month will be owned by the sludgy, doomy extreme metal of Tuskar (May 10), aka Tyler Hodges (drums and vocals) and Tom Dimmock (guitar).
“It’s always a pleasure to return to the Craufurd Arms, a place that started it all for us,”
Tyler said, “We can’t wait to bring our pals Wallowing with us and turn it up...”
You’ll not find more fun anywhere for eight quid. That’s a promise.
10 Years Too Late will be back in the venue (May 11) with a night of emo anthems made popular by My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, Paramore and Jimmy Eat World.
Skinny jeans on, black up those eyes and enjoy the Still Emo 2024 tour date.
Last year, Theatre of Hate toured Stateside with The Mission and The Chameleons for three months. And they still haven’t lost the urge! The Kirk Brandon crew will be in Wolverton on May 14.
Post-punkers Topographies (May 16) swap San Francisco and Los Angeles for the new city and hope to impress you with their leanings towards New Order and the Chameleons while also fusing elements of industrial, EBM, and shoegaze into a sound they are calling ‘nostalgic and contemporary.’
Hardcore aces Sick of It All is all sold out (May 17) because, simply, they are awesome.
The same evening, Johnny Moped will be live in the bar, and a day later Dale will headline the venue.
An all-dayer for heavy heads to cut loose to is the offering on May 26, with May/Hem Hardcore Festival
The queer inclusive/LGBTQIA+ all-dayer will blow away the cobwebs with heavy hardcore, beatdown and extreme metal players Goodcop, Street Grease, Depravity, Bind, Verminthrone, Mortal Wounds and Mass Graves, with more names to be announced.
Two decades since they broke through with their album Cultura, Flamenco metallers (not words placed next to each other too regularly!)
Breed 77 are back with a new single, End of the Line, and they play the venue on May 27.
> For all your Craufurd needs tap to thecraufurdarms.com
Yungblud has announced a spanking new festival to get excited about – and he’s chosen to host Bludfest here in the new city.
The British artist and musician has curated the billing that he will top, and it’s eclectic and cool, with Grammy-nominated Atlanta rapper Lil Yachty, Brit rock duo Soft Play, and punk aces The Damned, who quite rightly occupy the icon slot on the billing.
US riser Nessa Barrett, powerhouse pop player Lola Young and future pop artist Jazmin Bean will all get their time on the National Bowl stage on the day, as Yunglud carves out a bill to appeal to a new generation of gig-goers, and –we quote – ‘a younger generation of music fans who don’t necessitate their taste with genre categorisation, with a live setup that facilitates maximum crossover and collaboration, to forge an unforgettable celebration of music’.
“Five years ago we imagined a world of our own,” Yungblud, aka Dominic Harrison, said, “In Bludfest we have physically built one. It feels like the next logical step for me. I want to create a physical safe space where people can come and celebrate the ideologies of this community - where unity, individuality and love is the main focus and we bring the world of Yungblud to f**king life right before your eyes.
“I wanted to build an experience where anybody can be completely themselves, with their friends, their family or completely on their own.
“Bludfest will blur the lines of genre and destroy the limitation of imagination. It will be a festival that cuts the corporate bo****ks and is all about the people.”
And this is just the start – he’s already looking beyond the MK date on August 11: “My plan is to take it worldwide but this summer is the first one and it’s gonna be something no one has ever seen before in the UK,” he promised. A ‘Make a Friend’ tent, free photo booths and a Yungblud Museum will all feature at the event.
Last year, Take That released their ninth studio album, This Life, and announced a new stadium tour for 2024. Now the wait is nearly over, with Gary, Mark and Howard returning to the Stadium:MK stage on May 30.
The band is one of the most successful in Brit history, with worldwide sales of more than 45 million, and 12 number one hits in the UK alone. They last played at the home of the MK Dons in 2019, as they toured to celebrate their 30th anniversary with their Greatest Hits Live jaunt and a beast of a production.
The band had enjoyed earlier dalliances with the new city though – who remembers when they visited the long-defunct Rollers complex when they were just starting out on their musical journey?
And then there was an epic two-day stay at The National Bowl in 2006.
Support this time will come from Olly Murs
> Grab those tickets through ticketmaster.co.uk
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, or rather everybody is talking about the rising talent who is currently starring as the teenager in the award-winning smash hit show.
And when Ivano Turko steps to the stage at Milton Keynes Theatre next month (June 10-15) he’ll be playing to his home crowd, having grown up here in the new city. It was while singing in church in these parts as a youngster that Ivano first set his sights on performing.
So, that’s how it started, and it’s been going gloriously well since; having graduated drama school in 2020 he was personally chosen by Lord Lloyd Webber to be the male lead, Prince Sebastian, in Webber’s hotlyanticipated new musical, Cinderella, in the West End.
From there, he transformed into reggae icon Bob Marley for the bio-musical Get Up, Stand Up! - with just two weeks to get everything ship-shape and fit for the stage.
“The first Bob had a year to prepare … so for me to try and get all that work done in two weeks was … a challenge,” he laughs.
Playing Jamie is particularly fulfilling, says Ivano: “It’s the closest character to my actual character that I’ve played.”
That’s in part because, playing the gay teenage hero and aspiring drag queen, Ivano is getting to embrace his queerness in a way that he hasn’t on stage before.
“I really wanted to be able to experience playing within those realms, and to not have to put on several layers to try and be somebody else.”
One of the other aspects of the role that really resonates with Ivano is Jamie’s close relationship with his mother.
“For the most part I grew up in a single parent household with my mother as well, so we really had that kind of connection,” he says, “I know what it felt like to have a dream that was different from everyone else’s.”
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie was an undisputed season highlight when it debuted here in 2022. If you’ve seen it before, you’ll not be surprised. It’s a belter! To date it has enjoyed a recordbreaking three year West End residency, and being a modern, fresh delivery it has opened the theatre doors to a new audience, too.
Jamie New is 16-yearsold and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. He doesn’t quite fit in and is terrified about the future.
But Jamie is going to be a sensation, and he gets there with the support of his mum and friends. Catchy pop tunes soundtrack the coming-ofage musical, penned by Dan Gillespie Sells, lead singer-songwriter with The Feeling, and writer Tom MacRae.
turned theatre hot-property, Kevin Clifton is signed up as Hugo/Loco Chanelle “It’s inspiring, uplifting and infectious and I can’t wait to jump into Hugo/Loco Chanelle’s heels across the country,” Kevin said, “I’m proud to be part of a show that carries such an important message and celebrates everyone for who they are.”
Right now, Jamie is occupying Ivano’s working life, and he doesn’t have too much time to look beyond this dream role. Safe to say the phone will ring with opportunities for this stage star when he leaves Jamie behind. But just now, he’s having a ball and proving that life need never be a drag if you have true belief and genuine support.
“This role is my chance to put all my techniques that I’ve learned over the years and over these other shows into overdrive, as this character is so much closer to me,” he says again, “I feel like there’s a lot more power with it that I’ve been afforded.”
Ivano is joined by an equally stellar cast on this feel good journey.
X-Factor winner Sam Bailey also returns to our stage, as Miss Hedge, and Strictly Come Dancing ace
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie returns to Milton Keynes Theatre from Monday, June 10 – Saturday, June 15.
> To book tickets visit atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
It has one lamp, three wishes and infinite possibilities – and Disney’s Aladdin is currently enchanting audiences at Milton Keynes Theatre, with tickets selling fast. The curtain won’t come down, but the magic carpet will fly off for the last time on Sunday, May 19.
There won’t be time to get comfortable though, with a week of one nighters following, starting with The Chicago Blues Brothers in The Cruisin’ For A Bluesin tour (May 21), the magnificent Johannes Radebe who delivers House of JoJo (May 22), funny fella Ed Gamble brings his Hot Diggity Dog stand up (May 23), the Dreamboys (May 24) will show off their oiled muscles and then What’s Love Got To Do With It? takes you on a journey from Proud Mary to Simply The Best as singer Holly Bannis pays homage to the late Tina Turner.
We’re looking forward to seeing The Syndicate (May 28-June 1) and Kay Mellor’s final stage play couldn’t be in safer hands –with Kay’s daughter Gaynor Faye making her directorial debut.
Millions of us enjoyed four series of The Syndicate, but if you somehow missed out, it’s time to set things right.
Sammy Jones shares this month’s top choices on a stage near you – including work by the sublime pen of the much-missed Kay Mellor, a Disney classic and some giggle bringers.... >
The Syndicate is a moving comedy drama which tells the story of five supermarket workers whose lottery syndicate numbers come in, just as their jobs and livelihoods are under threat. Will a share of the jackpot make their dreams come true, or their nightmares a reality? The win of a lifetime will certainly change the lives, loves and relationships of the syndicate members forever.
Kay – who was also responsible for creating TV aces Band of Gold and Fat Friends – passed away in 2022, which makes this delivery all the more poignant.
“It is extremely special to be a part of this new theatrical version of The Syndicate and one which my mum was really excited to stage,” Gaynor said, “Having acted in the last series on TV, when she asked me to assist her on directing the show – I jumped at it. Now, it has become my first solo directing role and whilst I am so sad not to be doing it with her, I am also very proud and excited to bring mum’s vision to the fore... we’re going to reach for the stars and make mum’s wish come true - bringing another Kay Mellor classic to theatres across the country.”
A strong cast is in place, with Emmerdale’s Samantha Giles and Corrie star Brooke Vincent leading the way.
Over at Stantonbury Theatre The Pirates of Penzance (May 1-4) is being staged by Wolverton Gilbert & Sullivan Society, with the comic opera ‘packed full of sentimental pirates, blundering policemen, absurd adventures and improbable paradoxes.’
Not A Game For Girls (May 16-19) tells the dramatic story of Dick, Kerr’s Ladies who were
one of the most famous and successful football teams during WWI. So popular were they, The Football Association tried to get them banned!
Don’t Panic! We CAN Save The Planet! Exclaims James Campbell with the title of his new live comedy show, based on his book by the same name which comes to The Stables on May 4.
The afternoon perfomance is for youngsters aged six to 11 years old, and anyone who wants to swap being an Eco Worrier for being an Eco Warrior.
James will share his real-life experience of living off the land in an off-grid caravan, but it’s not a po-faced lecture. ‘It’s a positive, funny, life affirming show,’ is the promise.
The same evening funny fella Andy Parsons will be feeling Bafflingly Optimistic, and Griff Rhys Jones is in town for two nights (May 11 & 12) with The Cat’s Pyjamas
‘The show always varies as Griff rambles on the developing national permacrisis. Age. Family. Fraud. Nostalgia. The Tik Tok generation. Crocodile smuggling and noodling in Australia. Travel, dogs, hotels, drink and midnight trains.’
He’ll be taking your questions too.
More funny business is ahead with dates including Steve Bugeja (May 18) with Self Doubt (I Think) and Rosie Holt’s (May 24)
That’s Politainment, meaning that you’ve plenty of opportunity to crack a smile before May is out.
Milton Keynes Theatre: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
Stantonbury Theatre: stantonburytheatre.co.uk
The Stables: stables.org
Stables Screening: One Life
Wednesday, May 1, 7.30pm
Helena Bonham Carter, Johnny Flynn, Anthony Hopkins and Lena Olin start in this film about British stockbroker Nicholas Winton. He visited Czechoslovakia in the 1930s and formed plans to assist in the rescue of Jewish children before the onset of World War II, in an operation that came to be known as the Kindertransport. Bring the popcorn: stables.org
The Pirates of Penzance
Wednesday, May 1 –
Saturday, May 4, 7.30pm
Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera is packed full of sentimental pirates, blundering policemen, absurd adventures and improbable paradoxes – and Wolverton G&S will bring this production to you.
Walk the plank: stantonburytheatre.co.uk
John Reilly & Lewis Nitikman
Thursday, May 2
Get set for a uniquely intimate gig created by John’s intensely profound lyrics and stunning vocals enhanced by the incredible piano skills of Lewis. Expect a very special evening of moving and inspirational music.
Amazing Life: stables.org
Flint Fire – The Keith Flint Prodigy Tribute
Friday, May 3
The Black Prince welcomes the chaotic live tribute to the Keith Flint years of The Prodigy which has been curated by ‘Royle Eddy’ –formerly of The Jilted Generation. Expect classics and rarities and you’ll leave happy. No Good: sbdpromotions.com
New Purple Celebration –
The Music of Prince
Saturday, May 4, 7.30pm
A nine-piece band who have been playing tribute to the man and his music for 20 years. A non-stop brilliantly funky set is a given. Little Red Corvette: theroadmender.com
The Nightingales
Sunday, May 5, 7.30pm
Post punk legends stop off in the new city as part of their Off The Beaten Track tour.
The Last Laugh: thecraufurdarms.com
Katherine Priddy
Tuesday, May 7
Earlier this year, Katherine released her sophomore album, and now the Guy Garvey and Richard Thompson approved talent visits Wavendon to play material from The Pendulum Swing Anyway, Always: stables.org
Breezy Rodio
Tuesday, May 7
They went down a storm at the Bletchley Blues Club when they supported the Cinelli Brothers, so small surprise to learn that they are being brought back as headliners. Shooting the breeze: bletchleybluesclub.uk
What Lies Beneath?
Wednesday, May 8, 6pm-8.30pm
This Parks Trust run freshwater exploration is being hosted at the Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve.
The practical, adults-only workshop will demonstrate effective sampling techniques used to measure the health of water systems and you’ll be able to get up close with some freshwater invertebrates. Pre-booking is essential.
Bug life: theparkstrust.com
Blues Jam
Wednesday, May 8
Step up and show your flair – just bring your sticks, guitars, basses, mics and the like. Beginners are welcome, and a friendly environment is a given.
Free flow: bletchleybluesclub.uk
West End Now
Friday, May 10 & Saturday, May 11
Northampton Musical Theatre Company brings song and dance from some of the West End’s most loved shows including Six, Les Misérables and Dear Evan Hansen to the stage of The Royal. Look Down: royalandderngate.co.uk
Alina Orchestra: Summer Nights
Friday, May 10, 7.30pm
A very special summer concert celebrating the 80th birthday of Alina Orchestra’s Musical Director, Hilary Davan Wetton who will conduct, with soprano Rebecca Bottone. The show will feature some of Hilary’s favourite works – from a Mozart Symphony to pieces by Delius, Berlioz and Mendelssohn.
Nocturne: stables.org
Mercury – The Ultimate Queen Tribute
Friday, May 10, 7.30pm
Incredibly, it’s 50 years since Queen released their debut album, but though time flies those stellar tracks don’t age, and Mercury visits The Old Savoy to sate fans with one hit after another.
Royal approval: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Tuskar
Friday, May 10
Sludge duo with riffs aplenty make their Craufurd Arms return with support from Wallowing.
Matriarch: thecraufurdarms.com
Mugenkyo
Wednesday 15 May, 8pm
Mugenkyo are widely recognised as the groundbreaking pioneers of taiko, the exciting Japanese drumming art-form, and have thrilled audiences across the world.
Swinging at The Cotton Club
Friday 17 May, 8pm
Don’t miss this action-packed show celebrating the music and dance of New York’s most celebrated nightclub of the 1920s and 30s.
Rosie Holt:
That’s Politainment Friday 24 May, 8pm
Following a hugely successful Edinburgh Fringe season, Rosie takes her brand new show on the road to tightrope the thin line between politics and entertainment.
The Americana Revue
Thursday 30 May
A celebration of many of the world’s best loved Americana and country rock artists and some of the most inspiring songs of a generation.
The Stables Wavendon
Milton Keynes MK17 8LU
Box office: 01908 280800 stables.org
Walking Festival: Litter Pick
Friday, May 10, 10am
Help clear the ancient woodlands of Howe Park Wood of litter – all equipment will be provided, including special pickers for children. The pick is expected to last for around an hour. Keep Britain Tidy: theparkstrust.com
Whole Lotta Shakin’ –
The Shakin’ Stevens Story
Saturday, May 11, 7.30pm
West End star Rebel Dean will guide you through a full audio-visual spectacular with his live band, including rare footage and images which tell the story of the rockin’ Welsh boy and his rise to chart-topping superstardom. This Ole House: stantonburytheatre.co.uk
An Evening of Burlesque
Saturday, May 11, 7.30pm
Roll up, roll up for a scintillating night out at the Derngate, promising an extravaganza of glitz, glamour, fun and fabulous costumes. Cabaret o’clock: royalandderngate.co.uk
Handbag Heaven Club Night
Saturday, May 11, 7pm
A riot of memories, camp fun and iconic tunes hosted by Radio Northampton’s Bernie Keith, it’s a return to the dance floors we grew up with. Four hours of non-stop dancing at The Deco.
Ready those moves: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Denton & District Gardening Club
Monday, May 13, 7.30pm
Janette Merilion will be talking about ‘Birds, Bees and Butterflies’ – how to make your garden more wildlife-friendly. There will be plants for sale, a raffle and home-made refreshments. Entrance is free to members, £3 for visitors. Everyone is welcome, Denton Village Hall, Vicarage Lane, Denton, NN7 1DT
Enquiries to 01604 890875 or email m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk
Big Azza & The Jukesters
Tuesday, May 14
Harmonica fronted Blues band playing top quality R&B, Swing, Jump Jive & Blues. A mix of quality covers and originals to keep your feet tapping, and keep you dancing all night long.
Boogie on: bletchleybluesclub.uk
Descriptive Guided Walk: Gyosei Art Trail
Thursday, May 16, 6pm-7.30pm
Not A Game For Girls
Thursday, May 16 – Sunday, May 19
Pepper’s Ghost Theatre Co. tells the dramatic story of the Dick, Kerr’s Ladies – one of the most famous and successful women’s football teams during the First World Warso popular The Football Association tried to ban them.
Back of the net: stantonburytheatre.co.uk
Topographies
Thursday, May 16, 7.30pm
Post-punkers from San Francisco and Los Angeles with a sound that manages to be both nostalgic and contemporary visit The Craufurd Arms.
False Desire: thecraufurdarms.com
Big Doggie Do
Saturday, May 18 & Sunday, May 19, midday-5pm
Doggie displays, showing classes, flyball, pet supplies, delicious treats (for pooches and people), tutorials and demonstrations and much more, at Willen Lake. Tails will wag: theparkstrust.com
Join The Parks Trust for a walk of the art trail along the Grand Union Canal, taking in all eight pieces which relate to themes of Japanese connections, canal history and local history. Marvel at the mosaic: theparkstrust.com
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra –Verdi’s Requiem
Sunday, May 19, 7.30pm
The RPO closes its 2023/4 season in Northampton with Verdi’s Requiem. It will be thrilling, dramatic, and blazing with emotion.
Adrian Partington will conduct.
Baton at the ready: royalandderngate.co.uk
Singing for the Brain
Monday, May 20, 10.30am-12.15pm and 2pm-3.45pm
Sessions using singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity.
Contact: chelsea.gadd@alzheimers.org.uk or call 01908 232612 before attending
The School For Scandal
Tuesday, May 21 - Saturday, May 25
Deliciously naughty and outrageously silly, this timeless comedy is a masterclass in social satire and the art of gossip.
Joseph Marcell (Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air, RSC and Shakespeare’s Globe star) stars. So Scandalous: royalandderngate.co.uk
Johannes Radebe: House of JoJo
Wednesday, May 22
TV Dance Sensation Johannes Radebe will be joined by a host of eclectic characters in this brand-new theatrical celebration jam-packed with roof-raising music, dazzling costumes and of course, world class dance. Dance away your troubles: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
Time For Coffee
Friday, May 24, 10am-noon
The Campaigns Committee is hosting the coffee morning when a member of the Nene River Trust will be talking.
All are welcome. Enjoy cake and a chat with other members and perhaps even try your luck with the raffle. No need to book, just turn up. Clean rivers, nice coffee: WI House, 71 Park View, Moulton, NN3 7UZ
Birmingham Royal Ballet 2
Saturday, May 25
RB2 returns to Northampton with more performances of Carlos Acosta’s Classical Selection from some of the very best young dancers from around the world. Toe-tally breathtaking: royalandderngate.co.uk
Parks & Ride: Furzton Lake
Sunday, May 26, 11am
Join The Parks Trust and follow the Tattenhoe Valley, exploring through Furzton and Emerson Valley, heading back to the lake for a lap of honour! Ideal for all the family. Push Off: theparkstrust.com
Liam Ward Band
Tuesday, May 28
Get your mojo working with the epic harpdriven sounds of vintage American dance music: rocking blues, west coast swing and funky, soulful roots music.
Harmonica heaven: bletchleybluesclub.uk
DollyPopz Children’s Show
Tuesday, May 28, 2pm
Join pop culture Princesses Flossy, Blossom and Honey at their high energy Pop Party. Big costumes, big moves and an even bigger playlist of hits.
Chart attack: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Stables Screening: Barbie
Tuesday, May 28, 2.30pm
Eccentric and individualistic, Barbie is exiled from Barbieland because of her imperfections. When her home world is in peril, Barbie returns with the knowledge that what makes her different also makes her stronger. Starring Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie. Life’s fantastic: stables.org
The Syndicate
Thursday, May 28 – Saturday, June 1
Kay Mellor’s marvellous comedy drama takes to the stage, directed by Kay’s daughter, Gaynor Faye and starring Samantha Giles and Brooke Vincent.
Hit the jackpot: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
Emmanuel Sonubi
Wednesday, May 29, 7.30pm
Join Emmanuel on a hilarious and sometimes poignant journey that explores the professions that he’s had prior to becoming a comedian, discussing how those experiences helped shape his comedic voice. Is your CV up to date? royalandderngate.co.uk
Rapunzel
Wednesday, May 29, 2.30pm
With a wicked witch, a feisty heroine, a tap dancing horse and a host of adventures, Rapunzel promises to be a vibrant take on a classic and much loved story. Packed with songs, dance routines and jokes aplenty, it’s a family-friendly extravaganza.
Let your hair down: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Take That
Thursday, May 30
Pop kings Take That make their Stadium MK return, as part of their This Life tour, with support from Olly Murs.
Greatest Day: ticketmaster.co.uk
NC Jazz: The Edison Herbert Quartet
Friday, May 31, 7.30pm
An intimate musical journey will weave through both past and present compositions, treating the audience to engaging grooves, heartfelt ballads, and toe-tapping numbers. Jazz it up: royalandderngate.co.uk
Think of somewhere you have had an amazing meal. A place you have laughed over a pint with friends, or met up with family you haven’t seen in a while over a coffee. Food and drink brings people together in the best ways. Turn those positive connections into celebration.
Check out some of our categories you can nominate a company to win:
• CAFÉ OR TEAROOM OF THE YEAR
• BEST INDEPENDENT BUTCHERS
• BEST ARTISAN BAKERY
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Usually, the view from the far kerb is another kerb. Occasionally, something interesting resides in the road or beyond. Otherwise, it is just another kerb.
It becomes more interesting when that other kerb is a ‘dropped kerb.’ It both denotes the edge of the road and at the same time it allows wheeled vehicles to transfer from a footpath to the road surface without drama.
Wow, that was a boring! Can it get any worse? Well, that depends. They can be handy to facilitate access to your driveway or garage. However, if someone parks across them because they failed to notice them, or they were too lazy to park elsewhere, it can lead to infuriation. It can be quite a ‘thing’ when it happens, but the fact is that it happens rarely. It just seems more common because those affected make a great deal of fuss over the matter. And why not?
To many drivers, the ‘pedestrian’ dropped kerb is merely a hinderance to their freedom to park wherever.
Then there are their small brethren: those not as big in terms of anticipated width of wheeled vehicles passing over them. However, despite their lesser size, they are just as important, if not more so. While it can be a great inconvenience to come home and discover that someone has parked across your drive, it is a bigger issue when trying to maneuverer a laden baby buggy down a full height kerb. To many drivers, the
‘pedestrian’ dropped kerb is merely a hinderance to their freedom to park wherever. Obviously, parking across someone’s driveway is bad, but to park on a corner is okay. At least it isn’t blocking anyone (other than obscuring vision; increasing the likelihood of accidents; inconveniencing others; and being illegal).
Then we get to mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. Unless they are capable of zipping up Ben Nevis on a sunny day, none will be able to negotiate the full-height kerbs either side of anything parked across a dropped kerb. Usually, they will be carrying individuals who don’t have the luxury of a helper to manhandle (personhandle?) the thing up or down the kerb. Indeed, some powered wheelchairs are rather heavy. The idea that the average person could heft one about is quite funny, until realising that such behaviour could lead to serious injury.
The practical solution is to find a dropped kerb further along and drive back down the roadway; passing the offending motor vehicle, and then seeking out another dropped kerb so as to get out of the road and back on the footpath. Other drivers faced with such a wheelchair in the road tend to be quite good about it when seeing them moving slowly ahead. That is just as well because their combined chair/user weight can approach a quarter of a tonne.
Imagine the crash damage to a vehicle if there was a collision! And that is before the social stigma of being known as the driver who ran into a wheelchair user.
Maybe the real social stigma should be the act of parking across, and blocking, such dropped kerbs?
Phil O’Hara
Flavour of the Times - Aries is consistently followed by Taurus, and with numerous planets still clustered in the sky, it presents another upheaval to the system. You might have felt overwhelmed by the influx of new experiences all at once. However, this month offers an opportunity to ground everything and make it manageable. With spring in full bloom, take inspiration from nature and begin cultivating in a practical manner. Whether it’s planting vegetables, fruit, saplings, or intentions for yourself, now is the time. Just like plants, they require nurturing and care, so pay attention to your desires and tend to them with love.
April 21 – May 21
With a grounded, earthy essence also comes a hint of sensuality! This month, as many planets transition from the hyperactivity of Aries into your sign, you might find yourself drawing admirers interested in indulging in earthly delights. Alternatively, you may attract financial opportunities instead. It sounds like a win-win situation to me!
May 22 – June 21
Work hard this month to pave the way for more enjoyment later on, how does that sound? I understand you’re not keen on delaying gratification, but it would be unwise to squander your time in idle chatter when there are pressing tasks at hand. Focus your efforts and stay attentive, and you’ll have plenty of time to socialis come June!
June 22 – July 23
As we transition from the sharpness and irritability of last month’s Aries energy to the sign of Taurus, you might find things feeling more comfortable all around. You’ll likely feel less vulnerable and sensitive, allowing you to harness the grounded energy for practical activities and perhaps even some self-care at home.
July 24 – August 23
The energy of Taurus consistently challenges the Leo lion. It’s not solely about shining, looking good, or seeking excitement. Rather, it’s about genuine, earthy achievement— unassuming yet impactful. Give it a shot this month, and you might be pleasantly surprised by the significant progress you’ve made toward goals that truly matter to you.
August 24 – September 23
Virgo aligns harmoniously with the Taurus energy of this month. You’ll feel capable, organised, and a sense of things falling into place after the chaotic fire energy of last month. Your organisational prowess will be in demand, particularly by those seeking to work smarter rather than harder.
September 24 – October 23
You may sometimes come off as egotistical, that’s not your style! You prioritise building bridges and uphold a strong sense of fairness. This month presents an opportunity to translate your beliefs into concrete action. Getting involved with a campaigning group could be just the thing for you in May, and you might discover a genuine sense of fulfillment in making such a commitment.
October 24 – November 22
Saturn, the planet of control and limitations, advises that you dig deep into your soul this month and make some key decisions. This means rejecting some perhaps long-held imaginings that haven’t really ever worked out. That may be sad but at least you’ve got some space in looking for for new approaches to old problems.
November 23 – December 22
Saturn is not only impeding you but also creating confusion this month. However Mars, the planet of action, is now working for you so you can make progress in your explorations. Its fiery energy should be directed purposefully, though, into those things that are really achievable. Think of what you do as essential stepping stones on your path into the future.
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
December 23 – January 20
As the fire of Aries gives way to the earthiness of Taurus you will feel more comfortable this month. It may not be very easy to see exactly where certain things are going but at least you have recognisable and controllable forward momentum. Make the most of it because June will feel far too frivolous - get the hard work done now!
January 21 – February 19
In the background the changes you have always wanted to bring about are unfoldingbut agonisingly slowly. You can’t afford to just sit back and watch things happen or just talk about it: you have to ‘put in a shift’, do the work and do it thoroughly. So I’d avoid flights of fancy if you are serious about achieving your goals.
February 20 – March 20
The flooding is hopefully over, the ground is becoming workable to it’s time to dig in and work on manifesting your dreams. This is not about dreaming itself, it’s about doing the practical work you need to do to get some real results. Sure, there will be some resistance but that can be overcome if you stick at it. It’s not glamorous but the results just might be.
March 21 – April 20
Now is the month to give solid practical expression and direction to all that fire you have been stoking up. Taurus is as patient as Aries is impatient so your fire now needs to be grounded in practical activities. Imagine the bull (Taurus) sweating as it gives all its energy to pulling that plough across the field. Tenacity is the thing: keep working at it!
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.
