MK Pulse August 2022

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Issue 154 | August 2022

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County-wide news, views and stories

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LOCAL NEWS | FASHION | FOOD & DRINK | HOME & GARDEN | MOTORING | COMPLIMENTARY

CONTENTS

From the

Editor

August 2022

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

C

reativity is in the air. Forty talented youngsters are busy rehearsing for October’s grand final of this year’s search to find a future star for the MakeBelieve Talent platform. Good luck to them all.

26

Sadly, some young lives weren’t long enough to realise their full potential. The infected blood scandal has affected thousands including Rosemary Calder from Northampton and her family. A new treatment offered hope after her son Nicky was diagnosed with haemophilia as a small child, only to be dashed when they discovered that his treatment had exposed him to HIV. Sadly, he died more than 20 years ago but Rosemary continues to campaign and runs a support group for other families that have been affected.

OB City football club aims to improve the mental and physical health of its members. This month they will be playing their part in a charity match to support Football for Foodbanks MK. Rather than paying match fees players will be donating food parcels and would like their supporters to do the same.

That’s a clever idea.

Another ingenious initiative is the charity Medical Detection Dogs or MDD. Did you know it’s based on the outskirts of Milton Keynes? At the forefront of research to fight cancer and other life threatening diseases MDD’s Bio-Detection and Medical Alert Assistance Dogs are saving lives. More puppy socialisers are urgently needed – could you help train a puppy?

You’ll enjoy Pete Winkelman’s fond memories of Stephen Groom who spent decades at Great Linford Manor when it was a historic house and during its later life as the recording studio Pete took over in the 1990s. Officially odd job man and gardener, Pete says he was simply an honest, warm and wonderful human being. That’s a touching tribute.

Whatever you’re doing this month, have a fantastic time.

Kerry

Read previous editions online: www.pulsemagazine.co.uk 01908 465488 mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 17 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks MK46 5EA Connect with us on socials: /pulsemagazines @pulsemagazines mkpulsemagazine FINISHED READING? PASS PULSE MAGAZINE TO A FRIEND OR PLACE IT IN THE RECYCLING.

The deadline for advertising in the next edition of Pulse Magazine is MONDAY MONDAY8TH 8THFEBRUARY AUGUST Published by MK Pulse Limited MK Pulse cannot take responsibility for the content of the advertisements, editorial or the services provided by the advertisers. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. All artwork is accepted on condition that permission has been given for use in MK Pulse. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. ©MK Pulse

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4

NEWS

12

LEGAL

14

GOLF

18

NEWS FEATURE

26

CHARITY

30

PULSE PICS

34

BEAUTY

35

FASHION

40

FOOD & DRINK

42

HOME & GARDEN

50

MK COUNCIL

54

MUSIC

57

THEATRE

58

WHAT’S ON

61

FILMS

63

PUZZLES

64

YOUR STARS

40

59

MK Pulse is distributed door to door to 32,000 homes and businesses in: Aspley Guise, Aspley Heath, Blakelands, Bolbeck Park, Bow Brickhill, Browns Wood, Caldecotte, Carlton, Castlethorpe, Clifton Reynes, Deanshanger, Emberton, Emerson Valley, Filgrave, Furzton, Gayhurst, Giffard Park, Great Linford, Hanslope, Harrold, Haversham, Kents Hill, Kingsmead, Lavendon, Lathbury, Loughton, Middleton, Monkston, Monkston Park, Newport Pagnell, Newton Blossomville, Oakridge Park, Oakgrove, Odell, Old Farm Park, Olney, Pennyland, Ravenstone, Shenley Church End, Shenley Brook End, Shenley Lodge, Sherington, Simpson, Stoke Goldington, Tattenhoe, Turvey, Tyringham, Walnut Tree, Walton Park, Wavendon Gate, Wavendon Village, Weston Underwood, Whaddon, Willen, Willen Park, Woburn, Woburn Sands, Woughton on the Green and pick up points across MK.

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

Visit your local Milton Keynes Showroom today.

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We offer an extensive range of stylish windows, doors, conservatories and orangeries; all of which are available in a wide choice of colours, and are backed by our 10 year guarantee.

We are local company that prides ourselves on going the extra mile for our customers and providing a truly brilliant service.

With a combined floor space of over 15,000 square feet, our indoor showroom is filled with a comprehensive range of beautiful windows, doors and conservatories, all available for you to browse at your leisure.

01908 233 433 | info@windor.co.uk | 20 Dunsby Road, Milton Keynes, MK6 4AD | www.windor.co.uk

LOCAL NEWS

Here’s looking at you… but Dmitri has a species to save Grrr-eetings.. Meet Dmitri, a magnificent 165kg Amur tiger who is settling into his new life at Woburn Safari Park.

D

mitri arrived from nearby ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, a move that has been carefully coordinated between Woburn and Whipsnade to support the welfare and future of this critically endangered species.

Four-year-old Dmitri shares his reserve with Minerva, Woburn’s existing female Amur tiger, and replaces the park’s old male Tiger Elton who died in January.

Minerva is currently ranked as one of the most important females in the captive tiger population in Europe. The Amur tiger is classed as critically endangered and Woburn and ZSL Whipsnade both hope that Dmitri will also become

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Fewer than 500 Amur tigers remain in the wild, according to estimates, and coordinated captive breeding has proved both important and effective

an important member of the international breeding programme.

Fewer than 500 Amur tigers remain in the wild, according

to estimates, and coordinated captive breeding has proved both important and effective.

Ben Davies, Acting Head of Section: Carnivores, said;

“Woburn Safari Park is synonymous with tigers and Dmitri’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better time,” says the park’s head of carnivores ben Davies. “His joining us is the start of an amazing new adventure for all the team here.

He and Minerva will be able to assist in our fundraising campaign coinciding with the Year of the Tiger and we are sure that our visitors will love him.

“For the Woburn team, it will also be lovely to once again have another tiger at the park.

Hopefully, one day we will also see Dmitri become a father to his own set of cubs to help safeguard the future of this iconic species.”

As he roams his nine-acre drive-through reserve at Woburn, visitors will be able to tell him apart from Minerva by his notable size difference. The Amur tiger is the largest big cat on the planet and males can reach a huge 320kg (50.3 stone) in weight compared to the females, which typically reach around 180kg (28.3 stone).

Each tiger has its own unique stripe pattern and the pair also have individual facial markings.

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

5

LOCAL NEWS

Young stars shine brightly at Midsummer Place’s Make-Believe talent search Forty of the most talented youngsters in Milton Keynes are rehearsing, rehearsing and rehearsing ahead of the grand final of this year’s search to find a future star to join the MB Talent platform.

R

un by talent agency The Make Believe Group, the competition saw more than 150 children arrive in Midsummer Place shopping centre eager to showcase their talents in the hope of winning a part of the £1,000 cash prize and the opportunity to join the MB Talent platform.

The singing and dancing auditions were judged by managing director Joel Kern and industry experts. The auditions were judged across junior (6-9 years old) and senior categories (10+) and were whittled down to 40 finalists who will compete for the crown and £500 each at Stantonbury Theatre in October.

Previous winners have gone on to become stars, with 2018 finalist Klaudia Gjergji

The competition saw more than 150 children arrive in Midsummer Place shopping centre eager to showcase their talents

starring in West End production ‘On Your Feet’ this year and 2017 winner Charis Tetteh taking a role in ‘School of Rock’ since last year.

“The event was a huge success, and it is incredible to see the huge array of talent we

have in Milton Keynes,” says Midsummer Place’s marketing manager Kirsty McGiff.

“Well done to everyone that took part whether you were a finalist or not.”

Book your tickets to watch and support the finalists at www.tickettainment.com

Is a Kitchen re-spray the new way to update and save?

M

any of us have thought about repainting our kitchen cupboards as a way of refreshing them without replacing, especially now we have had more time at home lately.

“Can any kind of kitchen can be refinished or is respraying just for solid wood?” As long as your kitchen is in reasonable condition, FX-SPRAY MK can refinish it., even carrying out minor repairs and changing handles as part of the process.

But concerns over the finish achievable and how well the paint would last usually puts us off making a mess of things.

Jason Thompson, FX-SPRAY MK

Why replace when you can refinish?

Now local company FX-SPRAY MK is offering a complete professional paint spray service for kitchens.

It is a quick and simple process that leaves your kitchen looking brand new, says FX-SPRAY MK. The company removes and sprays 90 per cent of the kitchen off site, which means that very little work has to be done in your home, in turn meaning minimal disruption. An average kitchen can be completed within a week and home owners continue to use it during the process.

Suitable for solid wo od and MDF wrapped doors MONEY SAVING

AFTER BEFORE

We can colour match to all major paint brands!

Save thousands by having your kitchen professionally refinished to a factory Standard. Your colour choice, minimal disruption and minimal waste with a quick turnaround!

FX-SPRAY MK only use specialist products and having the latest spray equipment means the company delivers that brand new factory finish. A colour matching service to all major paint brands gives a huge choice - you can even go with a two-colour scheme.

6

FX-SPRAY MK also treats doors, windows and furniture.

For more information or a free quote, email jason@fxfinishing.co.uk or visit www.fxfinishing.co.uk

Email for a quote or visit our website for details; Call Jason: 07980 320162 email: jason@fxfinishing.co.uk

www.fxfinishing.co.uk 14

WE ALSO SPRAY:

Fitted furniture & Joinery Composite doors *booking now for spring 2022 PVCu windows *booking now for spring 2022

February 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light all fully fitted in less than a day from just £444! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our watchwords

are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been

referred to us by our existing customers - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9552 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

Need more storage space?

INSTALL A LOFT LADDER AND USE YOUR LOFT!

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Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile.

Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement.

Customers are no longer needing to risk their windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the road, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have

All C2C employees operate a strict social distancing policy.

any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.

When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window

once the unit has failed. Stephen commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www.cloudy2clear.com

Have Your Windows Steamed Up? Replace the pane, not the frame!

All glazing backed by our

“I really liked the fact that they were a local community run business” Janet Beard

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Love Your Home - Protect Your Windows - Save Money For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

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Quality Kitchen Facelifts

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Why replace when you can reface?

• Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks and taps • Made to measure custom-built doors and units • Installed by local skilled tradesman

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13/12/2021 For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022 14:329

LOCAL NEWS

A Way With Media Productions Proudly Presents

The Car Wash Co. is offering a range of cleaning and valeting options from a straightforward exterior clean to a high-end showroom exterior and interior sparkle

Adding sparkle to your shopping One of the UK’s largest hand car wash and valeting companies is now operating in centre:mk’s multi-storey car park.

T

he Car Wash Co. is offering a range of cleaning and valeting options. Their smart, eco-friendly car cleaning technology utilises their own highly effective “Little drop of brilliance” cleaning solution, which has been developed after many years of research.

“We are constantly looking at ways we can offer our guests an even better experience at centre:mk,” says centre director Kevn Duffy. “Whether it’s the convenience to have their car cleaned while they shop or providing services to make their trip more enjoyable, we are committed to making everyone feel welcome and we will continue to listen to our guests’ suggestions to bring in more services to meet their needs.”

The car wash and valeting service is another addition to the extensive range of services at centre:mk. As well as electric vehicle charging points in the car park and paperless parking payment through the centre:mk’s app, the guest services lounge is home to a Collect Plus point, quiet room, parent and baby zone complete with changing mats, bottle warmers and interactive play area, mobility scooter hire and a Changing Places toilet with hoist.

Stantonbury Theatre, Milton Keynes Saturday 10 September stantonburytheatre.co.uk – 01908 324466 @domjoly

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Improve your home with Custom Glaze Visit our showroom to see a range of our home extensions, garden rooms, window and door options. Or visit our website to arrange a quote and enjoy first class service and our best price first time, every time – no gimmicks, no hassle.

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

Your trusted local

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LEGAL

Practical advice for anyone buying their first home Getting on the property ladder can be daunting. It is one of the most expensive purchases you are ever likely to make. Everyone seems to have an opinion, using jargon you’re expected to understand.

Awais Mahmood and the Heald conveyancing Department deal with all elements of purchasing or selling a property.

Artemis House, 4 Bramley Road Milton Keynes MK1 1PT

At Heald Solicitors, we help first-time buyers avoid common pitfalls and wrong turns. We are always happy to answer your questions. We do so clearly and concisely. It is important that you understand what you are signing up to.

We are here to help you.

Here are some (not all!) of the key things you should know.

First-Time Buyer Schemes The government has several schemes to encourage home ownership. We can help you use any of them.

Schemes include the Help to Buy Equity Loan, where the government provides some of the mortgage funds, the Lifetime ISA, where the government provides a 25% boost to your savings, and the Shared Ownership Scheme, where you can buy part and pay rent on the remainder of the same property.

Mortgage This is a loan secured against your property. If you don’t make the monthly payments, the lender may take over ownership of the property (known as repossession). Mortgages can be used with the FirstTime Buyer Schemes mentioned above and the lender will set conditions before they loan the money to you.

We can help ensure that these conditions are met in time for you to buy your home.

The above information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

Heald Solicitors disclaims and excludes any liability in respect of the contents of this article or for action taken based on this information. If you need legal advice, please contact a solicitor.

Deposit You will usually need to provide the deposit before your mortgage is available, as it has to be paid at exchange of contracts. A Seller will expect a deposit of 10% of the purchase price, although they might agree to accept less.

Survey It is a good idea to instruct a specialist surveyor to carry out a structural survey of the property for you before exchange of contracts. While your lender might carry out a survey, this might not be as detailed as you need and because it is done for your lender, you might not be able to rely on this if something goes wrong.

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) SDLT is a tax paid on property transactions. The amount payable is based on several criteria, including the property’s value. To encourage first-time buyers, no SDLT is charged on purchases under £300,000.

Service Charges and Ground Rent Many properties have hidden charges. Ground rents are paid to the landlord of a lease (usually where you are buying a flat). They can vary from several hundred pounds a year to a nominal amount (a peppercorn).

Houses and flats may also have to pay service charges to cover the maintenance of communal areas. The amount can vary substantially and change each year, depending on what work is required. We will carefully check the documents to advise you of any issues and to ensure you are fully informed of your financial obligations.

Search Fees Various searches need to be carried out when you buy a property. These ensure, for example, that the property has been built legally, that it is not in flood risk area and that it is connected to the mains drainage and water supply. We conduct the searches on your behalf and check the results for you. Currently, the cost for a complete set of searches is around £300.

If you are looking for a high-quality conveyancing service that will give you peace of mind, our residential conveyancing team would be delighted to help you.

You can find out more by visiting our website or calling Awais or Elaine on 01908 662277.

Find out more at: www.healdlaw.co.uk 12

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

BATHWORKS JULY_© Fish Media 30/06/2014 09:33 Page 1

The bathroom you have always dreamed of!

The bathroom you have always dreamed off!

The bathroom you have always dreamed of!

H

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9 9 YOUR DESIGNER BATHROOM

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Visit our showroom and see some of the latest bathroom ranges.

Our experienced advisors are on-hand to discusswyour requirements and give advice.

196 High Rd, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9EF tel: 020 8504 1765 www.bathworks.co.uk

YOUR DESIGNER DESIGNERBATHROOM BATHROOM YOUR o

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oVisit our our showroom showroom and see some some of the the latest latest bathroom ranges. ranges. o see 9 x Visit and of 9 x9 bathroom x YOUR DESIGNER BATHROOM Our experienced experienced advisors are on-hand to discuss youryour requirements and give advice.

Our advisors are on-hand to discuss Visit our showroom and see some of the latest bathroom ranges. requirements and give advice. arrange Email info@bath-works.co.uk an appointment. w & fit.

Bathworks can offer supply only,toormake supply Opening hours: hours: Monday 10am - 4pm Tel: 01908 225535 Opening Monday--Saturday Friday 9.30-5.30pm, Saturdays 10am - 4pm.

42 Alston Drive, Bradwell Abbey, Milton Keynes MK13 9HB www.bath-works.co.uk 196 High Rd, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9EF tel: 020 8504 1765 www.bath-works.co.uk

o

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

13

GOLF

Experts can help golfers get into the swing

L

eading golf retailer, AFGolf Store is certainly hitting the sweet spot with its expanding services, new staff signings and growing business.

The team at AFGolf Store, which has thriving golf superstores in Milton Keynes, Peterborough and Cambridge, has now revealed plans to branch out with its premium delivery service, new online retail store and the evolution of its workshop.

Managing director Alan Fletcher, believes these additional services, staff members and ways to purchase will make AFGolf Store the premier destination for golfers.

“Our business is very simple. We aim to create a fun, enjoyable environment for golfers to shop and for staff to work, whilst providing competitive prices and working towards a range of unrivalled services.”

The company’s workshop and build centre is the brainchild of Alan and sales director Oliver Fullerton. It means, for an additional charge through the premium delivery service, golfers

14

can have custom-built golf clubs available in just seven days.

Oliver Fullerton says: “It has been a tough and eventful road setting up the workshop and working with partners to gain access to club components to be able to offer this service, however totally worth it. We have invested in equipment and staff to ensure that our customers can access this service and we are now seeing its expansion and have plenty of opportunities to grow in the next year.”

A recruitment drive has enabled the company to expand its service. Appointments include Jack Yetton who joined AFGolf Store from Titleist.

Alan says: “Jack’s experience in custom clubs and love of custom-build along with his undeniable desire for quality has allowed us to look forward with the workshop and build centre quicker than we were hoping.

“We believe that each customer should be given choice. That is choice of which club options to try and be fitted for, through

The team at AFGolfStore is growing!

to choosing to be able to upgrade their delivery time.”

Buying online has been another growth area with the appointment of Chris Hattersley to Ecommerce and Marketing Manager in June.

Staff including PGA professionals are at the heart of the company’s ongoing success, “The expertise of passionate PGA professionals is key to our customers enjoying their shopping experience with us,” says Alan.

“We have recruited some great PGA Professionals with a range of passions from retail, fitting and coaching which is another key arm to our business.”

Latest recruits are professional Mark James, who joins with experience of retail and fitting and Advanced PGA Professional Mark Sturgess who joins the Cambridge team to enhance the golf lesson experience. > For more information visit the AFGolf STORE website www.afgolfstore.co.uk Follow AFGolf Workshop on Facebook for the latest updates.

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

The all-new fully electric Kia Niro EV. Take the lead. Drive electric.

6.9% APR Representative Order by 30th September 2022 BELLS KIA NORTHAMPTON

BELLS KIA BEDFORD

Bedford Road, Northampton NN1 5NT Tel: 01604 621363 or visit www.bellskia.co.uk

Riverfield Drive, Bedford MK41 0SF Tel: 01234 360666 or visit www.bellskia.co.uk

Fuel consumption in mpg (I/100km) for the model shown: Combined not applicable, CO2 emissions 0 g/km and electric combined range of up to 285 miles, to a city range of 375 miles. These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The Niro EV is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging.

MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. The figures shown here are for limited comparison purposes; electric range and CO2 are tested using WLTP. Only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. For more information about WLTP please refer to kia.com/uk. Model shown: Niro EV ‘4’ 64.8 kWh lithium-ion 201bhp 1-speed auto at £42,490 including the Steel Pack and premium White Peal paint at £745. Kia Niro EV range available from £36,245 Specification is subject to change without notice. Offer available on purchase of a new Kia Niro EV in the United Kingdom between 01.07.2022 – 30.09.2022. Retail Sales only. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle. Kia reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time without prior notice. Finance T&Cs apply. Subject to status. 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Kia Finance RH2 9AQ. 7 year / 100,000 mile manufacturer’s warranty. For full terms and exclusions visit kia.com/uk/owners Bells Kia trading as Bells Motor Group Limited are a credit broker (not a lender) for the purposes of this financial promotion and can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

15

FRI 5th AUG ‘22

West Midlands Safari Park

Price: £40 per adult, over 65: £37 child: £35 (3-15yrs). Includes entrance fee.

The park has a wide collection of magnificent animals including rare white lions, elephant, rhinos, tigers, Zebra, wild dogs from Africa and many other wonderful animals.

Explore The Land of the Living Dinosaurs and don’t miss the theme park with its rollercoasters and many other amusement rides and, for younger children. *Please note wristbands for rides are not included but can be purchased on arrival.

Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 8.30am and leaves West Midlands Safari Park at 7pm.

MON 8th AUG ‘22 Southend on Sea Price: £25

per adult, £15 per child (3-16yrs).

Enjoy traditional seaside fun in the shape of award-winning beaches and attractions, to the worldfamous pier with its mile long railway.

Adventure island offers a wide range of thrill rides.

Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 8.30am and leaves Southend on Sea at 5pm.

MON 15th AUG ‘22

Cirencester - Market Day

Price: £25 per adult, child £15 (3-16yrs).

Includes entrance fee to flower show.

Cirencester is often referred to as the capital of the Cotswold as it was the second largest town in Britain during Roman times. Cirencester’s market town status was mentioned in the Doomsday book of 1086.

Traders set up their stalls every Monday in the town selling local produce, crafts and antiques market.

Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 9am and leaves Cirencester at 4.30pm.

THUR 1st SEPT ‘22 Sandringham Estate with Afternoon Tea

Price: £73 per adult. Includes entrance fee and afternoon tea.

Built in 1870 by the Prince and Princess of Wales, later King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, Sandringham was once described as ‘The most comfortable house in England’. Knowledgeable guides in every room of the house and acres of beautiful gardens to explore while the Museum houses extraordinary collections of Royal vehicles, rare ceramics, photographs and memorabilia. *The museum is currently closed to the public. **Please make us aware of any dietary requirements at booking, please note Sandringham estate cannot cater for a vegan diet.

Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 8.30am and leaves Sandringham Estate at 5pm.

info@billscoachhire.co.uk | www.billscoachhire.co.uk Stacey Bushes, 1 Hollin Lane, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK12 6HT

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Purchase tickets online: www.stantonburytheatre.co.uk 16

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

: 01908 324466

I

LOCAL NEWS

ain Stewart, right and Ben Everitt are pictured enjoying a cuppa outside the Houses of Parliament as the public vote begins. They are inviting cafés from across Milton Keynes to enter the competition and those who sign up will battle it out to be named MK’s Best Café.

The competition is aimed at promoting and support local cafés after a difficult couple of years due to Covid lockdowns and the impact of the global cost of living. Residents can vote either through an online form or by sharing a photo of themself at their favourite café using the hashtag #MKBestCafe on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

“It is wonderful to see many cafés from across Milton Keynes sign up to compete for the title of MK’s Best Café and I would like to wish all involved good luck,” says Mr Stewart, MP for Milton Keynes South.

Adds Ben, who represents Milton Keynes North: “I hope everyone will get involved and help promote our fantastic cafés across Milton Keynes. We know how much businesses had a tough time throughout the pandemic and the effect the global cost of living is having so let’s get out there, support local and show some love to MK’s business scene.”

Cast your vote at https://forms. gle/9S1BAjhYs4coDpjC7

Show some love to your favourite café

Get voting…that’s the appeal to Milton Keynes from the city’s two MPs as they launch their MK’s Best Café competition.

The competition is aimed at promoting and supporting local cafés after a difficult couple of years due to Covid lockdowns and the impact of the global cost of living

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We can carry out all types of repairs for classic and vintage Mercedes-Benz. From minor servicing work to full restoration in association with our local bodyshop.

We can carry out servicing, repair and modifications to performance MercedesBenz vehicles including AMG models. Our technician is fully certified by MercedesBenz to work on SLS Coupe, Roadsters and fully qualified for fitting of all Brabus parts to all Mercedes-Benz models. Any Brabus parts from a foglight to a full engine modification or full body kit.

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

17

NEWS FEATURE

‘You can’t believe it is happening to you’ W

The Infected Blood scandal has robbed thousands of families of their loved ones and caused unimaginable pain. One lady from Northampton lost her son to HIV more than 20 years ago, and only now feels ready to share his story as she fights for justice in his memory. She spoke with Pulse’s Sammy Jones.

18

hen their son bumped his head at nine months old resulting in a significant lump, Rosemary Calder and her husband Ray were concerned enough to take Nicky to hospital.

“Initially they suspected his dad and I of abusing him,” Rosemary recalled, “But after blood tests they told us he had haemophilia. To be honest, I was convinced he had leukaemia, so although I didn’t know much about the condition, I was relieved,” she remembered.

Haemophilia is a rare genetic disorder affecting the blood’s ability to clot.

The usual bumps and scrapes all toddlers get into are harder when you have the

condition and Nicky was given a crash helmet to wear to protect his head, and trips to the hospital were frequent for the clotting factor, cryoprecipitate to be administered.

Then, when Nicky was three or four, his parents were told of a ‘super new treatment’ called Factor VIII. “They said I would be able to treat Nicky at home and that it was a much more pure treatment. How wrong can you be?” she sighs, “You listen to the doctor and think they are the ones in the know, so whenever he got a bleed, there I was, pumping this stuff into him.”

Due to insufficient buildings and equipment to be able to produce enough of our own Factor VIII, the UK was buying it in from

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

NEWS FEATURE

America where people were paid to give blood.

Many of those stepping up to donate were drug addicts, sex workers and prisoners.

“Had this information been put onto the little bottles we were making up and putting into our children would we have still given it to them? Of course we wouldn’t,” Rosemary said.

“We had no idea until even after Nicky died that this was happening.”

In the early 1980s news broke about a new virus in America and how it was affecting groups including haemophiliacs.

Concerned, Rosemary sought reassurance from the experts. She was told to continue the treatment.

“They said the risks of anything happening were absolutely minimal.”

But Rosemary did reduce treatment, only administering it when ‘absolutely necessary’ despite the protests of hospital staff.

During a visit to collect supplies, a doctor told Rosemary, ‘By the way, we took some blood from Nicky in April to test for the virus but they’ve lost it.’

“I hadn’t been informed they had tested for it the first time, but they did do another test...”

In early September the same year, Nicky was excited at starting his new secondary school in Kenton. But the day before he donned his smart new uniform, a letter dropped onto the doormat.

He could have gone off and got a First Class Honours Degree as far as I was concerned because I was so, so proud that he had managed to achieve his dream under the most awful circumstances.”

Nicky had tested positive for HTLV-III, an early name for the virus now known as HIV. “It was indescribable,” Rosemary says, remembering taking in those words for the first time, “I had this little 11-year-old boy ready to start high school the next day, and I had no idea what life would now hold for him.

“The letter also said words to the effect that they were unsure of the implications, but that ‘we think children will not go on to develop AIDS from this virus.’”

She spoke to her GP who said only, ‘You have to dig deep into your reserves and find the strength to cope,’ and somehow that is what she did.

Rosemary and her husband protected Nicky and kept the news a secret.

“We didn’t tell anybody. We were totally isolated, you never knew what people’s reactions would be,” she remembered.

“At the time there were all these awful adverts on TV with the tombstones, and I knew that the little boy sitting next to me had been involved in this absolute horror.

Nicky in his crash helmet

“You can’t believe it is happening to you.”

The family later moved to Milton Keynes, and when Nicky was 14 years old his parents decided they couldn’t shelter him forever. He was a growing teen, and relationships would soon enter the equation. His parents now had the unenviable task of shattering Nicky’s innocence, “...although to be honest, he didn’t seem that surprised. I think maybe Nicky knew a little more than we thought he did,” Rosemary said, “He knew he could always talk to us, but quite honestly he just got on with his life as if nothing had changed.”

He was also a petrol head who loved Formula 1. He was never happier than when sat behind the wheel. Because of his haemophilia, he was able to take his driving test at 16 years old and passed the first time.

Later, he swapped his nice red Metro GTi for a bright orange beetle. He was a familiar sight around Newport Pagnell.

Rosemary Calder

“You could hear him coming down the High Street because it would go ‘bang, bang,’” Rosemary laughed, “He just loved his cars.

“I used to say to him, ‘can you go and post a letter for me, Nick?’ The letterbox was about three houses down from where we lived, but I would hear him go out and get in his car, drive to the bottom of the lane and turn around - just so he could come back and post the letter in the box.

“He always wanted to be behind the wheel of a car.”

Nicky’s ambition was to drive HGVs. It was, says Rosemary, all he ever wanted to do.

But his condition meant that was a dream unlikely to be realised – until his father used his redundancy money to set up a business in industrial machinery removals. It meant that when Nicky wasn’t well enough to work, he could rest without fear of losing his job.

“It boosted his self-esteem that he was able to go out and earn a living rather than living on benefits.”

Nicky got his HGV licence when he was 21 at the first attempt.

“He could have gone off and got a First Class Honours Degree as far as I was concerned because I was so, so proud that he had managed to achieve his dream under the most awful circumstances.”

It would have been easy to be full of vitriol for those who failed him, but Nicky turned his attention to living his life. He was a popular lad with many loyal friends, and he enjoyed the festivity of Christmas, always taking the time to buy lots of presents for his nearest and dearest.

And when his illness put up walls, Nicky would find another way through.

“He never let things get the better of him, never. He was always happy. I can see him now shuffling down the stairs on his bottom when he couldn’t put weight on his leg.”

At 18, Nicky had met the lady who would become his wife, and he later became a father too.

But soon after, his health began declining.

Medication often created more problems.

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

19

‘We want justice...’

NEWS FEATURE

The Infected Blood Inquiry is investigating why people in the UK were given imported, infected blood and products, how authorities responded and whether there was a cover up.

More than 3000 have died after being infected by HIV and hepatitis C. Addressing the inquiry in late June, former Prime Minister Sir John Major said victims of the scandal had suffered ‘incredibly bad luck.’

Rosemary Calder was sitting opposite him when he made that comment which was met by gasps of disbelief from families who were in the room to hear evidence.

“There is a lot of anger from his comment.

A lot of anger,” she emphasised, “It’s not the first time we have been kicked in the teeth like that by the powers that be and by those who should have had our children’s, our husbands’, our brothers’ and our fathers’ welfare at heart.

“To say it was incredibly bad luck? It might be bad luck if you trip over a paving slab and break your leg,” she said, clearly astonished at the lack of empathy.

“There has been a cover up. I have sat through the evidence, and they just do not want to acknowledge what they did wrong. They are never going to lay the blame at any one door because it was clinicians, haemophilia centre directors, the Department of Health, the Government, the Civil Service and the pharmaceutical companies.

“Many want to see people charged with what we consider manslaughter and murder.

“They knew the risks involved, but they took those risks anyway. It was about money. There was one piece of evidence we heard from one pharmaceutical company that they made two grades of Factor VIII – a basic one and a more purified, safer one. We’ve seen documentation where it was said to import the cheaper one.

“We want justice and contrition from those who acted the way they did without the care that they should have had.

“I want them to acknowledge the lives that have been lost and ruined.”

Nicky, as his mum would like him remembered – the loving husband on his wedding day (above) and pictured alongside his brother (left)

“He was on about 40 tablets a day. As we know now, a lot of the medication at the time was experimental and made people more ill than the virus. It was a really horrendous regime to try and stick to.”

Whenever he was well enough, Nicky would be found behind the wheel working those HGVs. He was a first class fork truck driver. But one morning when he couldn’t get out of bed the doctor was called.

It wasn’t so unusual; ‘probably another bout of pneumonia,’ thought Rosemary. He had been hospitalised twice with the same thing, and very nearly missed his wedding because of it.

“We thought they would get him on antibiotics and he would be home for Christmas.”

But Nicky never came home.

20

“The doctor told me that he was very, very ill and he was moved to a side room. He had been in the hospital for about two hours when he died.”

Nicky passed away on December 20, 1999, aged 25 leaving behind his wife and 13 month old son. For them, and for his devastated parents, and brother and sister, things would never be the same again.

More than two decades on, lives are still being lost and for the many thousands affected by this scandal, the suffering continues.

Today, Rosemary lives in Northampton and heads up a support group for parents who also lost their children through the same ordeal.

“Nicky’s is one story, but there are so many, and so much heartache. One boy was seven years old when he died, another one was 10.

“Life meant something to them and to all those who loved them. It was all snatched away.”

On paper, they are statistics in an enquiry.

But every one of those boys and men who lost their lives, or who are living with the effects of infected blood are so much more than that.

They are treasured individuals who had the same hopes and dreams as us all, but who never had the chance to see them realised. Nicky passed away because he was unnecessarily infected with HIV and hepatitis C, but that wasn’t who he was.

“I would like Nicky to be remembered for the person he was, and still is in my mind; as a beautiful, happy and loving son, father, husband and brother.”

Nicky Calder

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

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LOCAL NEWS

New store makes a Point on sustainability Shoppers are feeling the pinch as the cost of living soars. Now a new shop opened by Willen Hospice is aiming to help those in the market for clothes.

T

he hospice is welcoming its first visitors to its new clearance store at The Point in Central Milton Keynes. Over the past few months the downstairs area that formerly housed the bingo hall at The Point has been transformed and repurposed into a vast retail space.

The refit has enabled the Hospice to raise funds from the sale of wooden and metal fixtures that were left behind in the premises.

Only the colourful bingo hall carpet remains, reminiscent of an exciting atmosphere and a time when numbers were ceremoniously called out and winners celebrated.

And it has happened thanks to contributions from city businesses, which have donated time and resources to help with the refurbishment and upgrade.

Clothing is on sale from £1. “Our customers are definitely feeling the economic pinch, with soaring energy bills and rising prices making

The downstairs area that formerly housed the bingo hall at The Point has been transformed and repurposed into a vast retail space

shopping for everyday items a challenge,” says the hospice’s associate director commerce Mark Rawlins. “We are offering more choice at affordable prices. We are not only at the heart of our community, we are also in the heart of the city, looking to make a difference.”

Selling donated pre-loved clothing means the hospice can provide sustainable fashion to customers who choose to reuse and recycle clothing that might otherwise have ended up in landfill. “Sustainability is important to Willen Hospice,” says Mark. “Anything we cannot resell is either ragged or recycled to raise funds.”

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The hospice is also looking for volunteers to man the new shop. “Even if it is just a few hours a week,” says Mark. “Willen Hospice supports people in the local community when they are facing end of life illnesses and in turn we depend hugely on our community to help us in our shops.

“Volunteering is really rewarding. It can help to build your confidence, you’ll be learning new skills, working with amazing fashion and it’s a fantastic way to socialise.”

To find out more, email Volservices@willenhospice.org.uk or visit www.willen-hospice.org. uk/volunteering

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

25

CHARITY

The OB City line-up at a recent match

Give food, watch footie!

Ordinarily, you go to the match and pick up a pie to fill your belly while you simultaneously get your fill of footie, writes Sammy Jones.

B

ut a charity match happening in Milton Keynes this August is about to turn that on it’s ‘ead, son!

OB City has two teams playing league football, and a third which concerns itself only with friendlies and charity games, with the aim of the club to ‘improve the mental and physical health of its members’.

That team recently hit the pitch to play against Green Machine, swelling the coffers for Macmillan Cancer Support.

So when they were approached by Football For Foodbanks (MK) for a charity game, they were only too keen to do their bit. Instead of paying match fees, players will be donating a food parcel before having their kick about.

The teams want to see as many supporters on the day, and are hoping that you will want to add to their food donations with canned produce, with pasta and other non-perishables.

“It’s free to attend and the food donations would make a massive donation towards MK Foodbanks at a time when their services are more in demand than ever before,” said Simon Prockter, OB exhibition team manager.

“Times are hard for everyone just now, but if you are able to give a little, we can pull together to make a whole lot of difference.”

26

In fact, it was after experiencing his own difficult times that Simon made his connection with the team: “When I first came to OB City I was going through a very difficult few years personally,” he said, “I’d been dealing with health problems, low fitness, was struggling with low self-esteem and I hadn’t played football for more than four years.”

It took a fair bit of courage to make contact with the club, but it wasn’t really a choice – he knew he had to make that positive change.

“I just knew I needed to play football and be part of something bigger than me.”

Simon Prockter So he laced up his boots, warmed-up - mentally and physically - and rose to the challenge.

It’s safe to say things have been going pretty well.

“Less than two seasons later – and a month after my 47th birthday, I am fitter than I have been in years, I’m goalkeeper for the OB 2nds and will be playing league football next season!” he said, clearly thrilled with his current position.

It has been, and continues to be a blast, with all of the associated highs and lows that come with the beautiful game.

“I have played at a championship ground, kept clean sheets, been sent off, made horrendous mistakes, made some good saves, have made really good friends and I now manage the exhibition team.”

It might sound easy on paper, but it took Simon to reach out and make it happen, and that wasn’t so easy. Which is why he wants to encourage more of you to sign up.

“We are always looking for players,” Simon told Pulse, “Especially for the exhibition team which is perfect for getting back into football, perfect for losing weight, perfect for bettering your mental health and feeling part of a team again.

“Do you have confidence issues? Low ability?

Haven’t played in 20 years? Do you feel like you maybe aren’t good enough? Please do what I did - drop us a message on Facebook and one of the team will get back to you.”

There is no ladies team yet, but Simon thinks it’s a case of ‘when’ not ‘if’ that will happen.

“With women’s football growing all the time and the Euros being held here in Milton Keynes, I am sure it’s just a matter of time,” he said, “OB City also run a women’s netball team, mixed running and cycling clubs and provide mindfulness sessions.”

If your confidence is shattered or you feel that you wouldn’t fit in, you need to heed Simon’s words and get in touch. It’s not just a football club, it means a bit more than that – as Simon knows only too well.

“I’m so proud to be where I am today and be a part of this club,” he added, “It shows that with hard work and good people around you, you can achieve the goals you never thought were possible whilst having fun and getting fit too.”

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

> OB City will play Football For Foodbanks (MK) at Linceslade Grove Sports Grounds in Loughton on Sunday, August 14. Kick off is at 2pm. > For more about OB City click to FB: @obcitycic

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27

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

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The workshop is hosted jointly by HR Solutions and The Qoob Group.

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PULSE PICS

Eyes to the skies for the Red Arrows, and to the ground for some marvellous mazes.

Add to that a beautiful butterfly, the beautiful game, fantastic Mr Fox and our first look at this year’s panto and you’ve got Pulse Pics...

Things you are most likely to find on your doorstep; an Amazon parcel, perhaps? An unwanted cold-caller, maybe?

But definitely not an inquisitive fox! This amazing image shows the magnificent creature was quite pleased to meet Faye Alicia and her family in Wolverton.

“He was really gentle and so brave and curious,” Faye told Pulse, “He was very interested in my phone when I was taking the pics.”

When the Red Arrows displayed in the skies above Silverstone for F1, Scott Newitt was ready in Hanslope and captured all the action: “I was at the limit of my 500mm lenses, but was aware of their routing and time so was prepared,” he told Pulse.

He did a fantastic job too, as this image shows.

Ace-snapper Colin Kempster took this image of a Green-veined White butterfly at Linford Lakes Nature Reserve, blending perfectly with its environment.

See more pics: Instagram - pixbycurvy

Pic: The Patch MK

Urban Farm The Patch is famous for its sunflower and pumpkin events, but that’s not all – this summer they’ve celebrated our monarch’s Platinum Jubilee with a rather special corn maize maze.

Organically grown, it is bursting with wildflowers as well as the corn. The perfect way to get lost in nature. But beware the ginormous visitors who will feature in The Lost World dinosaur maze!

Pic: UEFA

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The UEFA Women’s EURO England 2022 Football Championship has been a roaring success everywhere, including here in the city, with a number of matches held at Stadium MK. Spain played Finland during the first match on local soil and came away victorious – winning 4-1.

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

It was 31˚outside so naturally thoughts turned to Christmas at MK Theatre during the heatwave!

Rob Rinder, Lesley Joseph and Paul Chuckle were among cast members visiting the city to promote this year’s panto, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Pic: Sammy Jones

Now taking registrations

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Call today to have your oven, hob, extractor or Aga professionally cleaned Contact Harvey Rainbow on Tel: 01908 911635 Mob: 07450 088303 Email: harveyrainbow@ovenwizards.com www.ovenwizards.com

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For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

31

FEATURE

Sniffing out problems with clever puppies!

They are called man’s best friend with good reason, but until the launch of the charity Medical Detection Dogs (MDD) many didn’t realise just how much canine companions can help us.

MDD launched in 2008 and what a long way they have come since then – but their success means they need your help, as Sammy Jones found out.

M

DD is at the forefront of research into the fight against cancer and other life threatening diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and bacterial infections. Simply, their Bio-Detection and Medical Alert Assistance Dogs are saving lives and changing lives.

Limitations because of the pandemic hindered progress, but now those restrictions have been lifted, the charity is on a big recruitment drive – they urgently need more puppy socialisers.

Could you help with a pup’s training?

After spending 30 years in the services, you might think John Marchant would like to spend his retirement relaxing. Instead he is raising two youngsters from his home here in Milton Keynes; an 18 month old yellow Labrador 32

called Jules, and an 11-week-old cockapoo called Phoenix.

John is relatively new to work with MDD, but he has previously worked with another animal assistance dog charity.

“I did breeding for Guide Dogs, I had a brood bitch which I kept. She was with me all her life and last June I had to put her to sleep because she had come to the end of the road. Like everyone else, I said, ‘I’m not having another dog,’ and three weeks later I got Jules from Medical Detection Dogs!’”

The appeal of pooches?

“I prefer them to most people I know, present company excepted, of course,” he quips.

“Why do it? It’s to give something to somebody else, “ he says, “These are very valuable animals to someone and can change

their lives. If I can do a little bit to help them along, here I am.

“One lady I know has a condition where she will just black out for no reason. She has a dog, and his use of smell means he can alert her that she is going to black out, with a seven minute warning.

“If she is in a shop, for example, she is able to tell the staff, ‘don’t be alarmed, but in seven minutes I am going to black out, and I am just going to make myself comfortable,’ which must be a hell of a weight off her mind.”

As a puppy socialiser, your role will be to prepare the dogs for the next stage in their career; as either a Medical Alert Assistance Dog, or as a Bio Detection Dog. “There is a basic set of training terms, which everybody uses, so everything is standardised,”

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

FEATURE

Medical Detection Dogs by numbers...

In 2021, 60% of the team were Labradors 14 different dog breeds were working as Medical Alert Assistance Dogs The puppy supply team donated 3960 hours of dog training 26 new puppies joined the team The charity is based on the outskirts of Milton Keynes, but it has clients with Medical Alert Assistance Dogs in 41 counties

Jules is an 18th month old yellow Labrador currently being trained up by John.

John said, “When they are puppies it can be quite difficult, but it is amazing how quickly they learn. Only a very few fail.”

You’ll have probably bumped into one of the MDD puppies in town, perhaps at a garden centre, a pub, or trotting around the shops with their trainers, looking posh in their red jackets, which politely ask members of the public not to give them a fuss as they are learning.

“We’ll go up the city centre and do an hour of work up there; walking to heel, we ‘do’ stairs, we ‘do’ lifts, we have to make him sit and lay down and stay there away from everybody else, that sort of thing.”

And these days, shoppers tend to leave them to their learning.

“Years ago it was a nightmare, but the majority of people now understand that they

are assistance dogs and to leave them alone.

“We have dogs now that detect Covid, which I think is incredible. We have many operational ones, and some more under training, but how they do that bio side of things, I don’t know,” John says, “I just concentrate on doing my bit with the dog.”

And ‘his bit’ is where everything starts from.

It’s really important.

There is no point in applying if you aren’t available for the dogs and can’t give them the necessary time, but if the Great Horwood based charity think you are a suitable match, they will be there to support you every sniff of the way!

“They are excellent,” John promises, They give you bags of support, and doing the job doesn’t cost you anything financially...” he pauses, and realises that’s not true in his case, “Well it does because you buy treats and things like that!” he giggles, “But it doesn’t have to cost you anything. They provide all the food, all the vet services. Whatever you need, they’ve got it.”

How does being a socialiser enrich your life?

“It is really the feeling of having done something that will help somebody else,” he says without hesitation, “It’s as basic as that.”

The dogs enjoy life too – they are highly valued by the charity which simply couldn’t do its groundbreaking work without them. And happy dogs make happy workers.

They also enjoy lots of down time.

We have dogs now that detect Covid, which I think is incredible. We have many operational ones, and some more under training...

“They are not always working – at some stage they have to be a dog,” John said, “Jules and I went out at 7 0’ clock this morning. We had a walk and then he had a free run off the lead, we were throwing a ball and enjoying play time for an hour or so.

“But as soon as I put his coat on, he knows – ‘this is it, we’re working now.’”

That’s not to say they aren’t cheeky on occasions – Phoenix embarrasses himself during our conversation: “Hang on,” John tells me, before I hear ‘Don’t do that!’

He returns to our call, “Phoenix is chewing my table! It’s a 150 year old family table!”

But it can hardly come as a surprise to anyone with any knowledge of puppies that they can get up to occasional mischief!

Listening to John chat about Jules and Phoenix, it’s clear that he is more than a little fond of his temporary house guests.

But in three months Jules will leave John and continue training elsewhere.

After having worked together so closely for 18 months, is it not a wrench when the time comes to say goodbye?

“I’ve been doing it long enough that I can get away from that, so for me it’s not a problem, but for a first timer it could be a little more difficult because you do get attached to them,” he admits.

But John has the perfect answer.

“What you do is take a younger model and do it all over again!”

Would you like to be a puppy socialiser?

Cute and clever - Phoenix

Would you like to follow John’s ‘lead’ and become a puppy socialiser? It’s hugely rewarding work and you’ll know that your input will change, or save someone’s life.

Visit the Medical Detection Dogs website where you’ll find much more information about the role, and can make contact with one of the MDD team. Click to medicaldetectiondogs. org.uk/volunteer/puppy-socialisers/

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

33

BEAUTY

Skin deep

beauty

Our choice of skin care goodies that will soothe, boost your glow and perfectly tan...

Origins have just launched the GinZing Glow-Boosting Mask which uses Caffeine from Coffee Beans and Panax Ginseng to naturally energise skin for a revitalised, radiant look.

The mask’s essential oil blend of Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon and Spearmint awakens the senses too.You’ll be buzzing by the results!

Make the most of the summer sunshine by all means, but don’t take silly risks in search of a golden tan. Trust us, it’s really not worth it.

RRP: £33

Instead, investigate St. Moriz’s range of tanning options. Stay safe, look sensational.

Get it: origins.co.uk

SBC’s Green Caviar Perfecting Moisturiser melts instantly into the skin promising a clean, green wave of hydration.

The silky gel-cream texture locks in moisture and the Green Caviar, aka Sea grapes is naturally rich in amino acids and minerals and works in harmony with other good stuff to hydrate thirsty skin, regardless of type.

RRP: £25 The Bedew brand is relatively new to the market, suitable for all skin types and mixed in small batches.

The company founder began formulating products to treat her own acne after products she tried failed to give great results. She trained as a skincare specialist and gained additional knowledge from her role as a clinical research analyst in wound care. Now we can all enjoy products like the Pink Clay Glow Up Mask which Bedew says is ‘a thick and dreamy treat for the skin.’

Infused with cranberry and strawberry extracts, it’s a smoothie for the face!

Struggling with blemishes and spots? The mask is good for solving those issues too.

Affordable, but hard working on problem areas.

The brand’s Vitamin C Boost Face & Body Serum is great for brightening the tone of the skin and tackling signs of ageing.

Choose from the Advanced Spray in a Can which gives you a golden colour without the salon price tag, the professional one-hour Fast Tan Lotion for those of you who need to get the job done without delay, and the Advanced Gradual Oily Skin Self Tanning Serum which helps to rebalance oil at every stage of the skin cycle.

There’s a tan for everybody and every body which will give you the perfect sun kissed glow.

It’s all about the spraycation!

RRP: Tan In A Can £12.99 (Boots) Fast Tan Lotion £4.99 (Superdrug) Self Tanning Serum £12.99 (St Moriz)

There is no need to use excessive amounts, and the serum is easily worked into the skin with no nasty residue or sticky feeling.

Brighten up your beauty regime, lock-in moisture and get to work on reducing those dark spots.

RRP: £32 > SBC items are cruelty free – the way it has been since the British-based company launched in 1990. Another reason to shop the brand.

Find both products at sbcskincare.co.uk

RRP: £8.99 (30ml) £19.99 (80ml) You exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, but sometimes your efforts can worsen problems – spreading bacteria and aiding breakouts.

Bedew’s Instant Enzyme Peel will dig deep to sort your exfoliation needs using fruit enzymes to get you sorted. A ‘powerhouse peel’ that is still gentle enough for sensitive and easily irritated skin.

RRP: £8.99 (30ml) £19.99 (100ml) Shop at bedewskin.co.uk 34

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

‘How do you say thank you?’

FASHION

A two hour introductory style and colour session with Jane at her Olney studio will transform how you think about your wardrobe

T

his month I have decided to share with you two lovely messages received from ladies who were looking to update their look with out changing out of all recognition.

“–Thank you are two simple words, but with such a big meaning. I was so ready for a challenge and to change the way I look at clothes and you gave me all that.

My husband loved the things I bought and today he has bought the trousers and shirt so, as he said, ‘looks more in tune with me’.

He was surprised I was looking at things I normally would never have looked at, and we both decided what I really needed was a ‘virtual Jane’ that I could pop into my handbag and bring out when required! Perhaps one day technology will go that far. I think rather than high street stores I need to look at more specialised brands, as there was little in MK that inspired me – like the things you showed me. Yes, it may take time to find the right items but at least I know what I'm looking for and if it goes pear shaped I know I can contact you. I am truly grateful. Thank you Jane.”

Sandra “I had a colour analysis session with Jane as I was struggling with how to develop my wardrobe. Jane was warm and easy to talk to and got me set up with some great tips and guides to follow, and enough information to move me to the next level without being slavish to strict rules.”

Mia Spencer Making the first contact with me can, I know, seem a little scary but I promise that you won’t regret it. Initially you will receive a lifestyle questionnaire from me to see what challenges you face when trying to buying clothes. (This is

normally why so many women hate shopping).

I will then have a much clearer picture of how I can help you best and the brands that will work for you and your budget – It is definitely NOT designer labels. Most women I help are working on a very limited budget. For some the first part is to give you advice on style to suit your body shape, for others it’s all about colour.

Next is working out what you already have in your wardrobe that does work for you BEFORE rushing out to buy more clothes. By going through this process you will gain a valuable insight into what does and does not suit you.

No more relying on friends, family, or unhelpful shop assistants only looking for a sale. You will be able to make good judgements based on the expert advice I provide.

I am passionate about helping women find the perfect capsule wardrobe tailored for your life. With the autumn/winter season fast approaching why not call or email me to find out how I can help you save money and fall back in love with shopping once more.

Jane Sumner Image Matters 07779 585323 www.imagemattersuk.com

Two hour introductory colour and style session for just £99 Normally £150, available from Monday 15th August - 27th September 2022 Quote MK or NN Pulse when booking your appointment.

Image Matters | Fashion Styling | Colour Analysis | Personal Styling

Email Jane on: jane@imagemattersuk.com or call: 07779 585323 www.imagemattersuk.com For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

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FASHION

River Island £12

Tu @ Sainsbury’s £17

<< New Look £13.99

SALE << Zara £25.99

Hot Right Now

W

ith the weather working hard to keep us undressed, it’s time to think strategically about what to wear. Trying to look hot while keeping cool in the latest trends might have us doing a meltdown every morning in front of the wardrobe, otherwise.

Be proactive and take inspiration from the catwalks - think thin straps and cute cut-outs, a la the looks at Michael Kors, Christian Siriano, Altuzarra, and Rejina Pyo. And if you can brave it, swap your shorts for a mini skirt, as seen in Prada, Dior and Versace.

Showing skin is so ‘in’ right now, and with lots of options (modest, courageous, crazy, understated) on the high street (and in your wardrobe already, probably) there’s little reason to sweat over your outfit.

strappy instead should try binding themselves in a bikini, worn under a blazer or open shirt - one of the hottest looks to take you from day brunching to the poolside or out for Instagrammable dinners.

All Items River Island

Just pair with denim, wide leg trousers or chunky sandals to come over all casual, else sass things up with a strappy heel and big earrings.

Whichever way you plan to go, you’re sure to keep your wardrobe looking cool, and in competition with the temperature til summer’s over.

F&F @ Tesco £22 New Look £27.99

Just choose well-placed cutouts that suit your shape, like those that reveal your upper ribs, the triangle at the top of your torso, or which fall just over the hip - silhouettes that compliment your figure and provide enough style and ventilation for strolls around the shops or along a shore somewhere. Shy ones who want to go super

River Island £35

River Island £40 River Island £35

River Island £40 >>

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Monsoon £170

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

Zara £29.99

TRANSITION TOWN

Sustainable Holidays and the Carbon Impact of Flying Although it’s still the case that half the UK population is not taking an international flight in a typical year, we Brits fly abroad more than any other nation in the world.

The question is: Do we realise the environmental damage we are making with our choice of holidays?

How planes heat up the planet The International Council of Clean Transportation reports that around 2.4% of global CO2 emissions come from aviation, and together with other gases and the water vapour trails produced by aircraft, the industry is responsible for around 5% of global warming. So it’s sad to find that a flight from London to Edinburgh can be five times cheaper than travelling by train, and yet can release more than five times the amount of greenhouse gases.

A question of social justice?

Only a very small percentage of the world flies frequently. In fact, in richer countries like ours, 70% of flights are taken by just 15% of the population. With (predominantly wealthy and business) frequent flyers creating the brunt of the problem, the “A Free Ride” campaign has an interesting perspective on fairness in flying.

They point out that whilst flying is the fastest growing cause of climate change, the UK Government gives an annual tax subsidy to air travel of more than £11 billion. The campaign identifies that by charging a bit more tax for each extra flight in the form of a Frequent Flyer Levy, it would allow everyone one tax-free return flight a year.

Mile for mile, flying is the most damaging way to travel for climate For those of us that do fly, it is likely to make up a significant slice of our personal carbon footprint. According to research from Lund University, a return flight from London to San Francisco emits around 5.5 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e) per person.

Flying is likely to make up a significant percentage of our personal carbon footprint

The International Council of Clean Transportation reports that around 2.4% of global CO2 emissions come from aviation, and together with other gases and the water vapour trails produced by aircraft, the industry is responsible for around 5% of global warming Astoundingly, that equates to more than twice the emissions produced by a family car in a year, and about half of the average carbon footprint of someone living in Britain.

easiest routes, cheapest tickets, and where to book, and also includes information on the (increasingly popular) Eurostar night-train options, and ferries to Europe.

There are now a plethora of eco-labels for travel and holiday destinations worth exploring. Travel journalist Helen Coffey's book Zero Altitude is an inspiring resource to learn to travel without flying and provides ideas for sustainable holiday solutions that address some of the problems that tourism can bring too. For example, she points to travel company Much Better Adventures as a more sustainable option for booking your holiday to ensure tourist money flows to local economies instead of being captured by the multinational companies who run hotels and resorts and often import products to meet tourists’ demands.

Opting for more sustainable travel options There is a joy in slower travel for opening up a new world of experiences. Taking longer journeys by train for example, can make the journey itself an exciting part of a holiday.

Man in Seat 61 website is great for info on

> For more information on Transition Town Milton Keynes, visit: www.transitiontownmk.org or email: transitiontownmk@protonmail.com

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

37

SHOPPING

Adding sparkle to centre:mk New luxury diamond, jewellery and watch brand, Loupe, has launched its flagship boutique at centre:mk in Milton Keynes.

Pulse went to take a look.

B

eaverbrooks, the 103-year-old family-owned jewellers with 71 stores nationwide, is expanding its portfolio with the launch of a new carefully curated concept luxury diamond, jewellery and watch brand – Loupe, which opened the doors of its highly anticipated flagship boutique on Thursday 9th June at centre:mk in Milton Keynes.

Set across 5,029 sq ft, Loupe Milton Keynes features a dedicated showroom for prestigious watch brand, ROLEX. The boutique also has a luxurious watch room housing its other Swiss watch brand partners, OMEGA, HUBLOT and ZENITH. These sit alongside Loupe’s own collection of diamonds and contemporary fine jewellery, hand-selected by its experienced buying team, and distinguished by its own hallmark. It will also showcase several one-off pieces with rare, coloured gemstones and striking modern designs. Other jewellery brands that can be found in the boutique are Mikimoto, Gucci Fine Jewellery, Hearts on Fire and Royal Asscher diamonds. Loupe is a stockist of ROLEX, HUBLOT, ZENITH, Mikimoto and Royal Asscher in the Milton Keynes area.

Loupe is a carefully curated concept designed to meet the rising demand for immersive, highly personal luxury retail. From the luxurious macarons and cocktails served at its very own bar, to the Italian cotton velvet and

classic twill furnishings – every element has been considered for a delightful shopping experience.

For a truly personalised touch, Loupe even boasts a secret room, ‘The Drum,’ which is completely private and allows clients to listen to their own playlist through its media wall.

Clients can also explore a specially curated diamond space, to discover more about the Loupe brand and how our experts hand-pick the brand’s unique diamond collection.

Anna Blackburn, Managing Director at Beaverbrooks, who has spearheaded the development of the Loupe brand, added: “We are beyond excited to launch our luxurious new boutique brand, Loupe in Milton Keynes and are exceptionally proud to launch this new venture in partnership with ROLEX. “While the brand was due to launch in summer 2021, we subsequently identified an opportunity to significantly expand our Milton Keynes boutique, which has now almost doubled in size since the original plan, to make it an even more impactful and prestigious shopping destination.

“Following the rising trend for experiential retail, and bringing a fresh approach to the luxury sector, Loupe has been carefully developed to offer the personal and immersive experience that we know is incredibly important to clients purchasing higher value items and investment pieces.

“Even the name itself – which signifies the magnifying glass used by jewellers and watchmakers – has been chosen to break conventions and be memorable. It represents the concept of looking through a portal into an exciting new world and

Loupe is a carefully curated concept designed to meet the rising demand for immersive, highly personal luxury retail

magnifying craft and beauty, offering luxuriously delightful experiences for both new and existing clients.”

Milton Keynes-born, Daniel Bailes, Boutique Manager at Loupe Milton Keynes, has worked in the watch and jewellery industry for 16 years. He commented on the boutique opening: “This is an incredibly exciting new brand concept for the jewellery and watch market, and we’re delighted that Loupe’s flagship boutique is set to open in Milton Keynes.

“The new boutique combines high specification fixtures and finishes with a chic, contemporary layout, designed to create an inspirational retail environment where clients can relax and spend time exploring the collections. We are looking forward to welcoming clients in Milton Keynes to enjoy a memorable and personalised retail experience like no other.”

Kevin Duffy, centre:mk’s Centre Director, added: “Loupe’s selection of centre:mk to launch its new luxury diamond, jewellery and watch brand cements the centre’s position as one of the top 10 retail destinations in the UK, serving an affluent catchment and committed customer base who will no doubt thoroughly enjoy this new concept.”

Tel: 01908 668621 73-75 Silbury Arcade, The Centre:MK, Milton Keynes, MK9 3ES Email: miltonkeynes@loupe.co.uk @LoupeUK on Instagram, www.facebook.com/LoupeUK on Facebook or @LoupeUK on Twitter.

Curated to perfection, the Loupe fine jewellery collection has its own unique story to tell

Loupe Boutique Team Ribbon Cutting.

From left to right - Gemma Cawood, Robyn Messenger, Stuart Whitefield, Wendy Lim, Daniel Bailes, Assunta Pozzuto, May Zin, Elizabeth Harrison

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

NO WORRIES

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FOOD & DRINK

Tomato & horseradish toasts METHOD

INGREDIENTS 400g pack Waitrose Cherry Vine Tomatoes, halved 2 cloves garlic, sliced 2 ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil A few thyme sprigs Pinch of brown sugar 4 small slices sourdough bread 2 tsp hot horseradish sauce 1 ½ tbsp reduced fat crème fraîche Handful basil leaves, to serve

Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 25 minutes Serves: 2

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1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Toss the tomatoes, garlic, oil, thyme and sugar in a medium roasting dish and season well.

Roast for 25 minutes, stirring gently halfway, until the tomatoes are collapsed and juicy.

2. Just before the tomatoes are ready, toast the sourdough and arrange on plates or a board. Remove the tomatoes from the oven and gently stir through the horseradish and crème fraîche, taking care not to break up the tomatoes too much.

3. Pile the tomatoes onto the toasts (discarding the thyme sprigs), grind over a little black pepper and scatter with basil leaves to serve.

COOK’S TIP Boost the protein content of this meal by serving sliced steak, cooked prawns or soft-boiled eggs on top.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose.

Recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

FOOD & DRINK

W

hen Craft and Skewers first opened in my hometown of Newport Pagnell a few years ago, I actually turned down the chance to visit for a family meal; having a nut and coconut allergy means that I have previously been reluctant to visit Indian food establishments due to the risks of cross-contamination. My Mum and brother jumped at the chance, however, and returned from their dinner absolutely stuffed to the brim, sharing with me the manager’s confident and exceptionally allergen-friendly approach to the menu. I vowed to visit with them the week after (testament to how much they’d enjoyed it!) and, safe to say, I wasn’t disappointed.

Craft and Skewers Craft and Skewers is an Indian ‘restro-pub,’ boasting delicious and well-priced food, cocktails and sundry craft beers in a super relaxed environment. On arrival, there’s no doubt that ‘restro-pub’ is the perfect description – rustic and quirky, Craft and Skewers is the perfect combination of casual dining spot, lively sports bar and homely pub, making it the ideal place to visit with family, friends or other loved ones. My brother, an amateur mixologist and self-professed ‘cocktail snob,’ is a huge fan of the cocktails at Craft and Skewers, proving that it’s not just food that the Indian ‘restro-pub’ excels in! Although

Cocktail of the month:

King's Beeswax

This cocktail is a real taste of Summer – created using honey syrup (homemade by heating 2 parts honey to 1 part water) and garnished with fresh honeycomb, this cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet and sour.

Initially this cocktail was created for my sister; still wanting to join in the weekends merriments, she had asked for something

I arrived feeling a little nervous, this dissipated as soon as I spoke to the waitstaff who set my mind at ease immediately, sharing the handful of dishes to avoid and providing me with total confidence in my order. It’s fair to say we ate, drank and made merry!

After this first visit, I have eaten at Craft and Skewers a multitude of times and made my way through the vast majority of the menu. Never once have I chosen anything I even remotely disliked! Some menu highlights include: Lamb Bhuna – served Delhi-style, rich with warming spices and deep flavour; Green Lamb Curry or ‘Palak Gosht’ – succulent pieces of lamb simmered in spinach, garlic, mild spices and cream; Bhindi Do Pyaza – a vegetarian North Indian Dish made from Okra, onions and spices; Chilli Paneer – soft Indian cottage cheese (similar in texture to halloumi) which is marinated, fried and tossed with onions, peppers and spring onions, served in a sweet and tangy chilli sauce and the Butter Chicken – a Punjabi-style rich and creamy tomato-based curry laced with chicken tikka pieces. From the Tandoor, both the Chicken and Salmon Tikka are, in my opinion, unbeatable!

If you are after ‘the star of the show,’ you absolutely must order the Onion Bhajis – this isn’t a recommendation, it’s an order! They are genuinely THE best bhajis I have ever eaten

– huge, crispy, not-at-all greasy and so very flavoursome. Although I can’t personally vouch due to the allergenic ingredients, my brother always orders the fragrant Goan Fish Curry and my Nan (who’s a bit of a spice-avoider) loves the creamy and mild Chicken Korma.

On my most recent visit, I ate a plethora of food, drank two exceptionally tasty alcoholic drinks and the bill, including service (which is always impeccable) came to just over £21 each – yes, you read that right! Craft and Skewers is always absolutely astounding value with no compromise at all on flavour or portion size. If you’re yet to visit, make it your priority and I am sure, like me, it’ll become one of your favourite local eateries.

Craft and Skewers 122 High St, Newport Pagnell MK16 8EH 01908 617100 www.craftandskewers.co.uk > If you would like your restaurant reviewed get in touch mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmaroseeats

to make her feel a bit better. Lemon, honey and ginger being the medicine, the ‘King’s Beeswax’ was born. It’s one of the few cocktails I have mixed that is heavier on the liqueur than on the base spirit. The result is a really tangy cocktail, perfectly balanced with sweetness – to cure all ills!

Recipe 50ml Ginger Liqueur @thekingsginger 25ml Rhubarb Vodka [Homemade] 25ml Honey Syrup [Homemade] 25ml Lemon Juice Shake and serve straight up

Follow Lewis on Instagram: @sundaycocktailclub

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

41

HOME & GARDEN

DIGGING DEEP Pond Life!

I

have always loved the mystery and beauty of a pond. Today I appreciate their calming appeal and the way they support our wildlife. As a youngster, I loved watching tadpoles and froglets darting around, peering into the underwater life.

Only recently I spent ages sitting at the side of a pond watching the juvenile frogs on their journey, and I recently enjoyed the delights of my friend Nikki’s charming country garden.

Nikki and Andy’s pond - with Frankie the pooch

Bees were still gathering the last of the pollen for the day, butterflies danced among the blossoms and birds arrived to drink and bathe as the heat retreated on the hottest day of the year.

Ponds are a great way to improve outdoor spaces, but as with any home improvement, you’ll need to do your homework before constructing this garden feature; will your pond be lined with waterproof material or concrete?

What shape will it be?

And where is the best place for it?

Constructing under the shade of a tree is a bad move, with fallen leaves guaranteed to bring problems.

Do your research and take your time – you don’t want to rush and regret later.

Ponds are a fantastic way to welcome frogs, toads and newts to your garden. Plants around the edge will provide shelter and security for the amphibians, and they look aesthetically pleasing.

Of course froggies aren’t the only creatures you might welcome; the common pond skater, water snails, water beetles, water boatmen and dragonfly larvae are among the many invertebrates that will likely be spotted.

How does your garden grow?

T

he growing season is well under way, but it’s not too late to sow some seeds!

Quite a few vegetables and flowers Aquatic plants will maintain thrive if sown in August. the health of your pond Even if you only have a windowsill, why not sow some pea shoots, as served in the best Nikki and Andy’s pond was wisely restaurants? They only take a week or so to created with shelves at different depths sprout, and you harvest them by cutting, and when they built it 20 years ago. then let them grow back for a second cut, “There was a fair bit of aquatic soil before sowing a new batch. added prior to the pond being filled They are delicious in stir-fries and salads, but with water and plants,” Andy said, don’t let them grow too big or they will taste “This ensured the plants would spread bitter. More culinary crops to try are rocket, naturally without being confined to cress, coriander (Green Aroma), basil, dill, and pots. We made sure there was a good cut- and- come again salad leaves. circulation of water with no dead spots within it.

If you have space in an outdoor plot, the We don’t over-filter it because we don’t have too choice is even greater. many fish.”

Nikki added: “This allowed us to add in a mix Now is the time to sow hardy annuals that of mostly native planting and marginals. We survive our winter, such as pot marigolds have bullrush, flowering rush, marsh marigold, and cornflowers.

Iris, water mint, water forget-me-not, and water Also, try biennials that lilies, to name just a few plants. The pond is flower in their second also home to a surprisingly large population year, such as sweet of newts, toads, water-boatmen and the williams and Pea shoots are a great addition occasional frog - and is a haven for wallflowers,forgetto stir fries and salads dragonflies and damselflies as well as me-nots and providing bathing and drinking facilities foxgloves. If for a multitude of garden birds. you already “I love the way the pond’s inhabitants have foxgloves and plants change over the seasons - it in the garden, needs a good tidy up once every few choose Suttons months and the water levels topping up Apricot, or Pam’s in very hot weather, but is relatively easy to Choice to add to the look after now it is established.”

Pic: flickr colour palette.

One word of warning though, don’t dash out Edibles to sow at this next spring to bring in spawn from another time are all the plants in the pond to your new water feature – it’s an easy way to bring in disease. cabbage family, such as cauliflower and Instead, sit back and let nature take kohlrabi, plus radishes, turnips, beetroots, its course. spring onions and carrots. Leafy vegetables for winter harvesting, which can also be sown now, are spinach, lettuce and Swiss chard - try the Bright Lights variety. It does what it says on the tin!

Top Tip...

Pic: flickr

42

If you are considering a pond, make sure to offer gently sloping sides - it will help young amphibians to leave the water and will be a lifesaver should any hedgehog take a tumble in by accident.

Jan Taylor > Bletchley Garden Club (BGC) meet each month. New members welcome. For details visit bletchleygardenclub.org

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

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Advertisement Feature

The driving force in bid to end plastic waste

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Oltco came up with a unique solution to help tackle the issue of plastic waste littering the globe in 2019 and has used the equivalent of 200 million plastics straws in Recycle Bound projects throughout the UK so far.

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HOME & GARDEN

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49

MK Council

Supporting families through the cost-of-living crisis

T

his year we have all experienced soaring interest rates, crippling fuel prices, and hugely expensive food shops.

Sadly this cost-of-living crisis is set to continue and have a continued impact on our communities, so the Council is stepping in to mitigate this impact wherever possible.

sessions are being run on a first-come-first-served basis, and they must be booked with the providers directly. Those who want to find out what sessions are being ran this month, and book onto them, can visit www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/children-youngpeople-and-families/holiday-activities-and-food-2022.

Aside from providing support with energy bills and council tax, we are also helping families with upfront childcare costs and helping them to buy school uniform at a reduced cost. Last year, prior to the onset of the cost-of-living crisis, the Council’s Poverty Commission found that almost 23,000 children were living in poverty in Milton Keynes. We are committed to tackling child poverty and supporting the most vulnerable, and I have outlined some of the ways we are supporting our local families below.

Homework help and a healthy meal Once the summer holidays finish, schoolchildren will also be able to make use of the Council-funded Homework Plus Club which allows children to socialise, get help with their homework and eat a substantial meal after school. There is currently one club at the Youth Network in West Bletchley, and a second club is set to open at The Mead Centre in Newport Pagnell next month. These sessions will provide families with free or low-cost afterschool care, and their child will have dinner provided for them. You can find out more information about the Homework Plus Club by visiting www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/HAF.

Thousands of free activities for local children This month, Milton Keynes Council will be offering thousands of free activity sessions to local children as part of the return of the highly anticipated Summer of Play. The Summer of Play will run until 25th August allowing all children, young people and their families to enjoy a day out and a healthy meal. These sessions were initially prioritised for children in receipt of benefit-related free school meals, but the Council has provided extra funding to ensure that that everyone can access them.

There will be a wide range of sports, crafts, cookery, music and activities for children of all ages, from toddlers to teens. Last year, our Summer of Play programme included over 30,000 individual activity sessions across MK with 28,000 free meals served throughout August. This year, the programme is set to be bigger and better – we are working with even more providers across 50 locations and have even more activities available. The 50

The Council provides advice and support to residents struggling financially. Find out more by visiting www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/cost-living-support.

Pete Marland Leader of Milton Keynes Council CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 252442 Email: peter.marland@milton-keynes.gov.uk Facebook: @mklabour ADDRESS: c/o Milton Keynes Council, Civic Offices, 1 Saxon Gate East, Milton Keynes MK9 3EJ

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51

MPS OUT & ABOUT

Tackling knife crime

and a letter from Her Majesty The Queen

Operation Deter will see Thames Valley Police adopt a zero tolerance approach to knife possession offences for offenders aged over 18

A

The race is on to find the best café in Milton Keynes as the ‘MK MP’s Best Café Competition’ gets underway with 22 cafés currently battling it out to get the title of best café

s summer continues I hope this month’s column finds you well and that you are soaking up the summer sunshine with friends and family.

Over 55s Fair – On Friday 2 September, Ben Everitt MP and I have organised an Over 55s Fair which will showcase the many opportunities that are available in Milton Keynes to individuals that covers health, safety, wellbeing and leisure.

The fair will run from 10am to 3pm at St Paul’s Catholic School and I would like to invite you down to meet some of the exhibitors. Please do keep an eye and ear out for more information on my website and social media about the fair.

MK MP’s Best Café Competition – The MK MP’s Best Café competition is underway with 22 cafés across Milton Keynes currently battling it out to get the title of best café.

At the time of writing this there have been over 2200 votes cast and the tallies are close. A couple of votes could see a café change position.

In July, I enjoyed visiting all the cafés in Milton Keynes South that are competing to learn why they think that they are the best in Milton Keynes. If you have a café that you think deserves to win the competition, I would encourage you to vote for them. For more information on which cafés are competing and how you can vote, please visit my website.

Letter from Her Majesty The Queen – As I am sure you already know, Milton Keynes was granted city status by Her Majesty The Queen as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. In response to that, I wrote to Her Majesty to express my heartfelt gratitude and the many thanks from residents for giving city status to Milton Keynes.

52

I am pleased to share that Her Majesty The Queen has received the letter and has responded saying: “This message comes to you, and to the people of Milton Keynes, with Her Majesty’s warmest good wishes.” You can find a copy of the letter and the response received on my website.

Operation Deter – I welcomed the deployment of Operation Deter in Milton Keynes, and I am sure residents across the city will welcome it too.

Focused around Milton Keynes, Operation Deter will see Thames Valley Police adopt a zero tolerance approach to knife possession offences for offenders aged over 18, with the objective being that any knife possession offences are proactively charged and remanded to court by TVP while the suspect is still in custody.

Over the last few months, I have been working with Government Ministers, the Thames Valley Police & Crime Commissioner and Thames Valley Police to see what we can do to tackle knife crime in Milton Keynes.

Operation Deter is one of the outcomes of my conversations and it will make positive steps in the fight against knife-carriers and deterring individuals thinking of carrying a knife.

As ever, if I and my office team can be of any help, please do get in touch with us using the contact details below.

Iain Stewart MP for Milton Keynes South CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 686830 Email: iain.stewart.mp@parliament.uk www.iainstewart.org.uk Suite 102, Milton Keynes Business Centre, Foxhunter Drive, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK14 6GD

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

MPS OUT & ABOUT

Communities come together and combating knife crime in MK Celebrations aplenty at India Day in Milton Keynes

On my monthly meeting with the Thames Valley Police Chief Constable I was keen to raise residents’ concerns including knife crime, the illegal use of e-scooters and noise pollution and grid road racing caused by local car cruises

I

t’s been a busy time in Milton Keynes over the last couple of months with so many incredible events bringing communities together from all across the city. I’ve had such a fantastic time attending these celebrations of cultures, heritage, community and so much more. From India Day Milton Keynes, MK African Diaspora Festival and the Hong Kong Friendship Festival to the Olney RiverFest, Castlethorpe Duck Race and Newport Pagnell Carnival it’s been wonderful to see so many people coming together after having to spend two years distancing ourselves. We have such a brilliant community here in Milton Keynes and I’m looking forward to seeing even more of you at events in the future!

Cost Of Living Support From The Government I understand people across Milton Keynes are currently worrying about the global rise in the cost of living so I am pleased the Government is providing a significant amount of support which will benefit families here in MK. 30,100 households across MK will receive the Government’s £650 Cost Of Living Payment for those most in need. On top of this 20,300 individuals in Milton Keynes are set to benefit from the £150 disability top-up payment which will land in September.

Earlier this year the £150 Council Tax rebate was introduced by the Government and would have benefitted the 95,890 properties in Bands A-D in Milton Keynes. MK Council was also given further funding from the Government to support vulnerable families who do not live in Bands A-D properties.

This Cost Of Living support is on top of £400 for all households to help with energy bills and in addition to changes to the Universal Credit taper rate and work allowances worth £1,000 a year on average for working claimants and a rise in the National Living Wage to £9.50 an hour.

In further support the Council received a further £1.79 million from the Government’s Household Support Fund to support families most in need between April and September.

The Government has also risen the level at which people start paying National Insurance has risen from £9,880 to £12,570, with 70% of UK workers now paying less National Insurance, even after accounting for the Health and Social Care Levy.

Operation Deter Launched To Combat MK Knife Crime I am absolutely determined to stamp out knife crime in Milton Keynes so I am extremely pleased Thames Valley Police have launched Operation Deter here in the Borough. I have been working closely with the local police and the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner on tackling knife crime and called for anybody caught carrying a knife in Milton Keynes to be locked up. Operation Deter is going to do exactly that. Anybody caught with a knife will be taken into police custody and if they are under 18 years old they will receive a meeting with the Youth Offending Team within 90 minutes of being in custody. The message is clear: if you are caught holding a knife in Milton Keynes you will spend time behind bars.

Milton Keynes MPs Over 55s Fair I am excited to announce an Over 55s Fair in Milton Keynes organised by myself and MK South MP Iain Stewart which will be held at St Paul’s Catholic School in Leadenhall from 10am-3pm on Friday 2nd September. You will have the chance to meet local charities, businesses and leisure groups so you can find new useful services and join some exciting clubs and groups.

Over the last month I also… ▸ On my monthly meeting with the Thames Valley Police Chief Constable I was keen to raise issues residents have been speaking to me about including knife crime, the illegal use of e-scooters and noise pollution and grid road racing caused by local car cruises ▸ I was pleased the police took swift action to move on the illegal encampment at Oakgrove School after I raised the issue as soon as I was made aware.

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

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

53

MUSIC

Solstice - set to play Towersey Festival

Solstice take their goods to Towersey

T

he UK’s longest-running independent festival is happening a mere 20 minutes outside of Milton Keynes at the end of the month, with four days of music and merriment to carry you through the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Artists performing between August 26 & 29 include Del Amitri, Imelda May, Turin Brakes, Kate Rusby, Howard Jones Acoustic Trio, Anais Mitchell, Ferocious Dog, Blazin’ Fiddles, Hackney Colliery Band and many others.

Strictly winner Bill Bailey will also be showing his musicality at the bash, and MK’s own Solstice will be following up an appearance at Glastonbury by taking the stage here.

Fellow new city mobs Togmor, forest of fools and Cock and Bull Band will all be showing their faces over the weekend.

The festival initially launched as a one-off event to raise funds towards the repair of Towersey Hall – that was way back in 1965!

Aside from music, comedy and dance, many workshops will happen, together with circus and theatre shows, storytelling, outdoor games, history and ghost walks and music jams.

This is the first year that the event is being hosted by the Claydon Estate and festival director Joe Heap is thrilled to get back to normal after two years of cancellations.

“With a packed line-up of music, dance, comedy, workshops, food, real ale, crafts, games, workshops, ghost walks - you name it!

- Towersey Festival 2022 is set to be the most exciting yet, a worthy testament to my grandad who founded the festival back in 1965,” Joe said, “With a pristine new site, incredible line-up and our much-loved community atmosphere, we can’t wait to welcome attendees young and old to join our Towersey Festival family.”

Biffy Clyro on a visit to MK

> Tickets can be booked by clicking to towerseyfestival.com

MK Music Archive:

Mon the Biff!

F

resh from their headlining appearance at this year’s Download Festival, Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro announced a huge UK arena tour, but the band spent some of their early times here in Milton Keynes; and long before they supported Foo Fighters at The National Bowl.

Biffy recorded their first two albums at Great Linford Manor studio and hit The Pitz Club for some particularly frenetic, fired-up shows.

There was also a Virgin Megastore in-store. > For more on Milton Keynes’ musical history visit FB @miltonkeyneswiredforsound

Well, I’ll be Damned!

T

he Damned were due to headline The Field of Avalon stage at this year’s Glastonbury Festival, but with a last minute cancellation due to some of the band being struck down with Covid, Captain Sensible decided to use his newly acquired time off to good effect.

Writing on his Facebook page @sensiblecaptain shared his love of MK’s own Stray, saying of their 1970 elpee: ‘I’m cheering myself up by listening to one of the first albums 54

I ever purchased. One I STILL love too - all killer no filler.. full of great tunes, psych, guitar wizardry and fabulously mixed. Can you believe they were even better live - and guitarist Del is still out there doing it!?’

Readers of Pulse Music know only too well that Stray are still out and about, and the next local date for your diary is Friday, November 11 when The Stables presents An Evening with Del Bromham & Stray.

Tickets are on sale now.

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

Stray are the business and the captain says so!

MUSIC

A Multitude of the marvellous

T

he Craufurd Arms has a festival in a day for you this August, with three stages delivering the best of the local rising and breaking acts at Multitude.

If you’ve not been keeping an eye on music-makers from the area, expect to have your mind blown – the scene right now is bubbling with talent and some must surely be on the brink of good things.

“We want to celebrate the multitude of talent in the local and national music scene,” Craufurd promoter Jason Hall told Pulse, “Multitude is very much about all things new, independent and breaking.”

A few of the artists are from a couple of junctions along the motorway, in Northampton.

“It has the busiest scene imaginable at the moment. Every day a new band pops up full of youth, and of the highest quality,” Jason said, “The MK and Northampton scenes have almost merged together and support each other.

The line-up for the event on August 13 runs as follows: Sail stage: Torus (MK), Byker Grove Fan Club, Cusp (MK), Serma (MK), The Mundays (NN), The Mezz (Oxford) Altercation stage: Tragic (NN), Punk Band, TBA, Snayx, TBA, Memes Bare Bones (stripped back) stage: Bare Bones, Low Girl, Manny, Safest Spaces, Eddz, Enjoyable Listens, Nailbreaker Tickets are on sale for a tenner – that’s about 50 pence per band! - and AvegetativeState will be dishing up the best in vegan food. Gourmet topped fries will also help keep hunger at bay on the day, and vinyl junkies will be in luck with a number of stalls offering releases. > Doors will open at 3pm, and tickets can be purchased at thecraufurdarms.com

A Devil in Disguise?

I

t’s the fusion that few thought possible – an Elvis fronted Nirvana ensemble called Elvana.

Apparently, ‘Elvana tear through Nirvana’s catalogue whilst splicing in a grunged up section of the king of rock & roll’s finest moments, culminating in a whopper mash up of overdrive and old school rockabilly.

They went down an absolute storm at this year’s Glastonbury Festival, and A Little Less Conversation and a little more grunge can be yours on August 27 when the band brings Disgraceland to MK11 in Kiln Farm.

We still remember being entertained by Dread Zeppelin, the US reggae rockers who delivered the songs of Led Zeppelin with an Elvis

impersonator up front. That was a Pitz Club night in another life. It certainly feels that long ago.

Tragic play the Altercation Stage

In a spin type of thing

W

hile on the subject of The Craufurd Arms, the venue will host another Record Fair on Sunday, August 21. A chance to flick through the racks in search of an elusive seven-inch, that rare elpee you’ve spent years hoping to track down, or maybe just something you spot on a whim and want to add to the collection.

It’s the only shopping you should be doing on a Sunday! Doors at midday through ‘til 4pm.

Torus are on tour

> Heart of a Coward will play this year’s Bloodstock Festival. The MK heavies will play the Ronnie James Dio stage on Friday, August 12, on a bill also featuring Eyehategod and Discharge.

In preparation, the quintet have announced a hometown warm-up date at MK11, on Thursday, August 11. > Tickets are on sale now at £14 (+bf). Visit mk11kilnfarm.com for details and to book.

W

Pic: Richard Hedge

hen Torus curates their stage at the Multitude Festival (see elsewhere on this page for more about that), it will bring the curtain down on the band’s first tour, in support of the Sail EP, which has just been released.

If you’ve got petrol to burn (yeah, we know!), the trio will play the following dates:

Catch Heart of a Coward at the Bloodstock Festival

July 29 – The Cobblestones – Bridgewater July 30 – The Hat Factory – Luton July 31 – Voodoo Daddy’s – Norwich August 5 – The Star – Guildford August 6 – Suburbia – Southampton August 10 – Signature Brew - London August 13 – Craufurd Arms – Milton Keynes

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

55

MUSIC

Remembering Steve Groom Pulse’s Sammy Jones speaks with Pete Winkelman about the sad loss of a true Milton Keynes original.

A

s tall as he was in stature, Stephen Groom was quiet in nature.

Steve (as he was known) spent decades at Great Linford Manor; first working for the historic house when the Development Corporation took over the premises in the 1970s, then under the management of Harry Maloney who reinvented the building as a recording studio in the 1980s, before Pete Winkelman took control, giving the studio a second wave of success in the 1990s.

“Steve was the odd job man, the gardener, the person who welcomed the groups, but more than that, he was the one who could always be relied upon. I refer to him as the custodian of the house,” Pete told Pulse, “He was an honest, warm and wonderful human being and I think everyone that met him would say the same.

“When you worked with him, you realised that Steve knew everything about everything.”

As anyone who has been privileged to be around the workings of a recording studio will know, alongside bursts of band creativity can come bouts of frustration and high jinx.

It can be a pressured environment and reading the room can be tricky on occasions, but not for Steve, who was always calm and collected.

“He saw unusual things go on all the time,” Pete remembered, “But he had so much discretion. Steve never made anyone feel ill at ease – you could throw him into any band environment and he would be part of the banter.”

It was Steve who was the ‘public face’ of the annual Waterside music festival. He was integral to the success of those popular events.

“It was one of his legacies,” Pete said.

But Steve wasn’t just someone that musicians could lean on. He was a musician himself, playing instruments including the banjo, ukulele and guitar, and he always created personas for his bands.

One of his characters caused alarm when Pete first spotted him in the house.

“During its time as a studio, you never knew who might pop into the Manor. One day I remember walking through the house and there was this really tall, long haired ageing 56

rocker there. I said to my wife Berni, ‘Who the hell is that?’

“We left him to it, but he had definitely caught our attention.

Later, he knocks on our door and comes into the room towering over us and we are both thinking ‘Who is this?’ and then when he started speaking, we realised it was Steve with his alter-ego!”

That was the first time Pete came face to face with the inimitable Jimi Volcano, whose single releases included Never Sit On A SunDial and Kicking Out The Jam. But Steve’s music-making wasn’t limited to Jimi, and fans might remember Bingo, The Trees and Big Laundry Bill among others. Lots of names, but with Steve at the core of them all.

Art was another passion – and something he excelled at.

He studied Fine Art at Leeds Uni and then an MA at the Royal College of Art and his quirky, clever designs had been exhibited widely, including at Milton Keynes Gallery.

Steve’s pieces had equally clever titles; ‘A Nightingale Coughed in Berkeley Square’ and ‘Friday Night Is Bath Night Whether I Need One or Not,’ give an idea of the creative at work.

As a youngster at school, while other kids would use playtime to get rid of excess energy, Steve would sit and draw. It clearly paid off.

“It’s contemporary, humorous, entertaining, surreal, poetic...” he told me during one of many interviews and chats we had enjoyed during my time working with him at the Manor, “There are serious things going on, but overtly it’s quite

Steve Groom: ‘We are all going to miss him terribly’

Steve as his alter-ego, Jimi Volcano

humorous and I try to make my work as accessible as possible.”

He succeeded: In the mid-noughties he exhibited 52 pieces of work at MKG – every last piece sold-out at the private view!

Alt-rockers The Tindersticks used Steve’s artwork on one of their EPs and many artists who passed through the Manor purchased pieces – including PJ Harvey who has some Steve Groom originals in her collection.

“He was an incredible artist,” Pete agreed, “He could draw, he could paint, and he could make games. He would always remember everyone’s birthday every year and would deliver some kind of special toy that he had invented with an irony to it.

“So there were all these personas – the musician who was many different characters, the artist that was very accomplished, and this great friend and confidante of Great Linford Manor.

“The news of his passing was devastating.

Steve was special, and we are all going to miss him terribly.”

Steve is survived by his son, Paul. He was a proud grandfather, and stepfather to four daughters. > Steve’s family are putting together a catalogue of his art and music. Moving forward they would like to hold an exhibition, and maybe release a book of his work in tribute. If you have items of Steve’s art or music in your possession, please take a photo of the item(s) or write your recollections of Steve and email to ursywhite@icloud.com

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

THEATRE

Cher, Cher and

Cher alike!

D

escribed as a fiercely fabulous kickass new musical, The Cher Show makes its Milton Keynes debut (August 9-13), bringing the story of the Queen of reinvention to the stage.

And this delivery really will turn back time, taking fans through the history of her meteoric rise to fame, using three West End stars to span her iconic career.

Olivier Award-nominated Millie O’Connell has previously shown her pedigree in Six and Rent, Danielle Steers has rocked the stage in Bat Out of Hell and Six, and fellow Olivier nominee Debbie Kurup has starred in Prince of Egypt and The Bodyguard.

We’ve seen hundreds of productions over the years, but Debbie’s 2001 turn as Mimi in Rent remains a firm favourite of ours. What a tour that was.

Now though, it’s all about bringing the diva delight!

This is the story of the Armenian American truck driver’s shy daughter who would find her voice, wow the world and become a household name. And it is packed tight with dozens of tracks from the lady.

A gloriously talented team has brought this piece to fruition; it was penned by Rick Elice, who also wrote the gargantuan success Jersey Boys, has been directed by Arlene Phillips, whose many credits include Starlight Express and Grease, and choreography has been handled by two-time Strictly Glitterball winner Oti Mabuse.

“I loved Cher’s music from the first time I heard it, but it’s more than that; Cher is an icon,” says Arlene, “Cher is a woman who right

from the start of her career was ahead of her time. She’s had hits in every decade, she’s a great actress and she’s whip-smart. She has also been a great pioneer for women’s rights,” Arlene added.

“If there’s something to shout about then Cher shouts about it.”

And she sings about it – Cher has racked up record sales in excess of 100 million. Awards?

There have been more than a few of those too.

She has even picked up recognition from The Council of Fashion Designers of America.

And let’s face it, those costumes are nearly as legendary as the lady who wears them.

“The invention and the reinvention and the ability to use her body in a powerful way is inspirational,” Arlene said, “We have clarified every detail and I can’t wait for people to see it.”

Oti Mabuse won’t be on tour with the show – she’ll be out on the road with her own production, but there will be no mistaking her input in The Cher Show – the attention to detail is spot on. “...when I’m dancing, I am only part of the picture, but when you are choreographing, there are so many elements that are so exciting,” she said, “Creating a storyline through dance means you go through the smallest details – is there a connection or a secret between the dancers that we need the audience to share? What props are there?

What is the dancer at the back of the stage doing?

“It will be epic!” Oti promises, “It has to be bigger than anything because it’s her; it has to live up to Cher’s iconic status. She has been such an inspiration to so many people and this musical is going to be a celebration Mamma Mia! of everything people love about her.”

Perhaps we should leave the last word to the lady herself though.

“All of us invent ourselves,” Cher said, “Some of us just have more imagination than others.”

Pic: Matt Crockett

Pic: Pamela Raith

A musical landing in town this month will turn the spotlight on one of the industry’s best-selling artists of all time. Sammy Jones explores the new show about the Goddess of Pop...

Millie O’Connell, Debbie Kurup & Danielle Steers star in The Cher Show

Lucas Rush as Sonny Bono & Millie O’Connell as Babe in The Cher Show

> Also this month...

Mamma Mia! Here they go again! The return of the ABBA jukebox musical is nigh, with ticket-holders transported to a Greek island paradise where a story of love, friendship and identity will play out (August 2-6), and Jane McDonald will stop by (August 28) as part of her Let the Light In tour, in support of her current album by the same name.

Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers returns at the end of the month (August 30-September 3), but we’ll have much more about that, and about Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat (September 1224) right here, next month... > Bookings: Milton Keynes Theatre: atgtickets.com/ venues/milton-keynes-theatre

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

57

WHATS ON

#WhatsOnPulse Newport Pagnell and District Probus Club Tuesday, August 2, 12.15pm A friendly and diverse social club for retired and semi-retired men and women from all walks of life, meeting at the Swan Revived Hotel for lunch and a talk, ‘My life of Crime Tales from a Criminal Bar’,

by Simon Michael.

Get more: Call 01908 605378 or email johnbrimley37@btinternet.com

Mamma Mia! Tuesday, August 2 - Saturday, August 6 Leave the new city for a few hours and touch down on a Greek island when the sunny musical infused with ABBA goodness makes its return to MK Theatre.

Here they go again: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes Abington Animals Until Saturday, September 17 A family exhibition that takes a closer look at some of the animals and birds living in Abington Park – from squirrels to mallards.

This show at Abington Park Museum will inspire youngsters to check in on the wildlife in their locality, and the display features beautiful artwork courtesy of illustrator Simon Watkins.

Quackers: northamptonmuseums.com Pond Dipping at Howe Park Wood Tuesday, August 2 Enjoy a guided family-friendly pond dipping session with The Parks Trust to see what minibeasts lurk beneath the water. You’ll be provided with the equipment and will learn about healthy pondlife and the fascinating creatures you’ll find.

Sessions run from 10am and the last one begins at 2.30pm.

What will you find? theparkstrust.com Refreshments in the Courtyard Thursdays, August 4 & 18, 10.30am-12.30pm Treat yourselves to delicious homemade cakes, a choice of tea, coffee or juice, and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the beautiful 18th century, tranquil gardens.

Refreshments at the Museum: cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk Bethany Clift in Conversation Thursday, August 4, 6pm Author Bethany will be in conversation with Nikki Bloomer at Waterstones in Midsummer Place, talking about the release of her new page-turner Love & Other Human Errors.

Chapter and verse: waterstones.com/events

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The Ed Sheeran Songbook Friday, August 5, 8pm An authentic tribute to the world’s biggest selling pop phenomenon with a promise that ‘Jack Bowater can match Ed stride for stride in vocal ability, guitar playing and stage presence.’

Perfect: thepicturedrome.com Jasmine Burns Friday, August 5 Jasmine laces her warm and rugged vocals around tales of a bruised and heavy heart, all mixed together with a jaunty, foot tapping rhythm, and no doubt composed on her narrowboat on The Grand Union Canal.

Now she is ready to make a splash at The Craufurd Arms as she puts her own spin on the Neo Country genre.

Vibes: thecraufurdarms.com The Big Night Out Friday, August 5, 7.30pm Celebrate the rebirth of variety with an array of amazing talent and unusual acts.

A fast moving extravaganza of singers, dancers, speciality acts, mind blowing magic, hilarious comedy, tributes and more.

Performers will include Mick Miller.

Variety is the spice of life: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Mamma Mia! Here we go again with the hit Abba musical at MK Theatre this August

Bite Street Northampton Friday, August 5 - Sunday, August 7 The pop-up food affair returns to the supporter village at Franklin’s Gardens with vendors, cocktails, great beer and table service. Rain won’t stop play either with a stretch tent ready in case of any inclement weather.

Sounds tasty: bitestreet.co.uk Martha Wainwright Saturday, August 6 Back in play with her new album Love Will Be Reborn, Martha is playing the intimate confines of The Stables in Wavendon, with support from Roseanne Reid. A special night awaits ticket holders.

Don’t leave it to chance: stables.org Willen Hospice Mini-Moo Sunday, August 7 The Mini Moo invites children to run, scoot or walk around Willen Lake North to swell funds for the charity.

Get a Moo-ve on: willen-hospice.org.uk/moo

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

Pic: Paul Dubbelman

August Highlights Martha Wainwright Saturday 6 August, 8pm The beguiling performer and songwriter returns with Love Will Be Reborn, out in August. Not since 2012’s Come Home To Mama has a Martha Wainwright record been so full of original written material.

Debbie Bond brings the distrinct Blues sounds of New Orleans to the Bletchley Blues Club

Song of the Summer Thursday, August 11 Sunday, August 21 A new coming-of-age comedy drama that explores the highs and lows of teenage life. It is set in Northampton in 2006 and features original indie rock inspired by the era.

A cast of local actor musicians bring the piece to life.

Highs and lows: royalandderngate.co.uk

Debbie Bond Tuesday, August 9, 7.30pm Influenced by raw juke joint blues and the famed sounds of Muscle Shoals, the American lady has been deeply influenced by Alabama roots music and her collaboration with British born harmonica chap ‘Radiator’ Rick has added a swampy New Orleans edge to her sound.

Swamp it up: bletchleybluesclub.uk Catch Dan Evans performing at The Arches Theatre in Olney

Walk & Talk: Discover Great Linford Manor Park Friday, August 12, 10.30am A chance to discover more about the ancient origins of the park, including the Veteran Lime Tree, Doric Seat and Haha, which survive from the 18th century English Landscape Garden design of the park.

Step back in time: theparkstrust.com Multitude Festival Saturday, August 13 Bringing the best in new bands and solo artists from Milton Keynes, Northampton and surrounding areas to three stages at Wolverton venue The Craufurd Arms. Enjoy 20 acts for £10 from 3pm. You’ve no excuse not to support live music with entry fees like that.

Check the new breed and rising stars: thecraufurdarms.com Dan Evans Sunday, August 14, 2pm Join the renowned dulcimer player, guitarist and composer as he performs a concert in his locality - at The Arches Theatre in Olney. Expect beautiful arrangements of popular folk songs and his own compositions when he delivers his first local concert for four years.

Let your fingers do the walking: thearchestheatre.co.uk

The Slambovian Circus of Dreams Saturday 20 August, 8pm A rootsy rockin’ psychedelica, the Slambovian Circus of Dreams has been expanding the borders of the Americana genre with their fantastic stories and performance since forming in Sleepy Hollow, New York.

Colosseum Tuesday 23 August, 8pm Colosseum will be on the road again from 2022 with a new line-up consisting of original frontman Chris Farlowe, guitarist Clem Clempson and bassist Mark Clarke. Joining them will be Nick Steed on keyboards, Kim Nishikawara on saxophone and Malcolm Mortimore on drums.

Hats Off To Led Zeppelin Friday 26 August, 8pm Hats Off To Led Zeppelin are the only tribute act in the UK officially endorsed by Marshall Amplifiers. They have received many accolades over the years, including winning Best Led Zeppelin tribute for the eighth year running at the National Tribute Awards and Best Tribute Band In The UK 2020.

The Drifters Saturday 27 August, 8pm The Drifters are back on tour in the UK with a brand-new show performing all their classic hits from the last six decades. The legendary group have previously been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, listed among the Greatest Artists of All Time by Rolling Stone magazine and have produced an incredible list of hits.

The Stables, Wavendon Milton Keynes MK17 8LU Box office: 01908 280800 stables.org

For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

59

WHATS ON

Inner Wheel Newport Pagnell Tuesday, August 16, 2pm A club quiz and bingo afternoon at The Olney Centre, followed by refreshments and an update on the club’s activities for the rest of the year.

Members and newcomers welcomed from Newport Pagnell, Olney and all the surrounding villages.

Get involved: 01908 217356 or email innerwheelnewportpagnell@gmail.com

Greenbelt Festival Friday, August 26 - Monday, August 29 A fantastic line-up of music, comedy, literature, performing arts, workshops and worship and spirituality at Boughton House near Kettering.

Those appearing include Brian Eno, Beans on Toast, Martin Joseph, Thea Gilmore, Kae Tempest, Green Party MP Caroline lucas, comedian Shaparak Khorsandi and writer and speaker Bonnie Greer. Full line-up and more good stuff: greenbelt.org.uk

Linford Eats Thursday, August 18, 5pm-8pm A mini foodie event in the newly restored parkland of Great Linford Manor park.

Well-behaved dogs on leads will be welcome, and you are invited to bring your own camping chairs and picnic blankets.

Very tasty: theparkstrust.com

John Bickley and the Invisible Folk Club Band Saturday, August 27, 2-6pm Folk tradition and the Olney Hymns live in the picturesque gardens and courtyard.

Folking fantastic: cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk

The Slambovian Circus of Dreams Saturday, August 20 The New York purveyors of psychedelia are making their return to Wavendon haunt The Stables as they tour in support of their fresh to the racks album, A Very Unusual Head.

Rootsy rockin: stables.org

Scottish Country Dancing Wednesday August 31st 8pm Classes restart at Shenley Brook End, village hall.

(Classes also held at Bradwell, restart Monday September 5).

Woof Walk: Waterhall Park Saturday, August 27 A chance to exercise your doggies, and for them, and you, to make new pals as you explore the park. Pooches must be kept on a lead at all times. A £1 booking is required to attend. Don’t forget the poop bags: theparkstrust.com

Record Fair Sunday, August 21, midday Vinyl is enjoying a massive resurgence, and if you are on the hunt for that elusive 12” or have spent ages chasing down that rare vinyl elpee that was only released in limited numbered edition on translucent pink vinyl (we’ve all been there), you might just find it here. Entry is free.

Like a record, baby: thecraufurdarms.com Krissy Matthews Tuesday, August 23, 7.30pm Having shared stages with artists including Joe Bonamassa, Joe Satriani, Clawfinger and Los Lobos, Krissy brings his own band back to Bletchley Blues Club.

Blues brilliance: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Fun Dog Show Monday, August 29, 11am (judging from midday) Join Animals in Need at Irchester Country Park as they find the Best Kisser, Prettiest Pooch and Best Veteran (among others) on four legs. All raising necessary funds for the charity.

Going walkies: animals-in-need.org

Look out for our beginners course starting September 19 Please contact Jan Jones 07877 153259 info@rscdsmk.co.uk or intro2scd@gmail.com

Ageing Well Talks – Home Instead Milton Keynes Home Instead Milton Keynes will be hosting a series of talks on Ageing Well by Jitka Vseteckova phD, D.Prof. SFHEA from the Open University. The talks start at 11am and are approximately an hour long (plus time at the end to ask questions).

Elvana, never mind...

Elvana Saturday, August 27 How many times have you thought, ‘If only I could go and see a Nirvana tribute fronted by an Elvis impersonator’? We know, it’s a regular thing, right? Take a trip to Kiln Farm venue MK11 this month and your dreams will come true. You’re welcome. Smells like the devil in disguise: mk11kilnfarm.com Rhythm of the 90’s Saturday, August 27, 9pm The Rhythm of the 90’s have spent years taking tunes that were never intended to be played live and honing them into a show like no other. Step back: unitninemk.com

6th September 2022 Pharmacotherapy While Ageing 1st November 2022 Move It and Breathe 22nd November 2022 - Standing Tall The talks are FREE and are available to everyone – care staff, charities, clubs and societies .

Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite: www.eventbrite.com/e/ageing-welltalks-home-instead-milton-keynes-6sessions-tickets-321267970147 For more information, please email sarah.freshwater@homeinstead.co.uk/ miltonkeynes or call 01908 774333 www.homeinstead.co.uk/miltonkeynes

Jane McDonald Sunday, August 28 Music and laughter from the BAFTA awardwinner who is on the road again in support of her new album, Let The Light In. Enlightening: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes Krissy Matthews

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August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

Film Reviews

by Jordan Adcock

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TOP GUN

FILM OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4/5

The long-awaited sequel to Top Gun is still going great guns at the box office.

Two months after it was released, not to mention thirty-six years after the first film, it’s still the only blockbuster worth watching this summer. Going right into the danger zone with US Navy fighter jets is as thrilling, funny and convincing as the original. It might be the first revival of a classic film/franchise since Blade Runner that bolsters what came before rather than diminishing it. Perhaps even more crucial than bringing back the jets is Tom Cruise as ace pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. Maverick still feels “the need for speed” as he tests a hypersonic concept plane before he’s called in to help train a new set of Navy pilots for the elite Top Gun programme, including the son of Goose (Miles Teller), Maverick’s old radar intercept officer, who resents Maverick for what happened to his father back then.

It’s refreshing that, like with the first film, the production committed to shooting sequences with real fighter jets, with cameras mounted onto the jets and inside their cockpits. It more than pays off by immersing the viewer deeper into the spectacle than a CGI fest without story or characters attached. And yes, while Maverick’s story is straightforward, revisiting many favourite scenes from the original (plus a debt to the original Star Wars), it works excellently by introducing likeable new characters while not diminishing its established lead.

Speaking of which, Tom Cruise’s still got Maverick’s swagger and charisma down, even as the character’s older and carrying some doubts. Between this and the Mission: Impossible films, he’s still pushing himself to perform the most audacious stunts possible. This film’s incredible entertainment and success is fitting testament to that. ✪

BRIAN AND CHARLES

BLACKLIGHT

Star Rating: 2/5

Star Rating: 1.5/5

Star Rating: 1/5

This small British comedy drama is possibly one of the strangest films I’ve seen in a few years - I’m still not sure if that’s more of a compliment or criticism.

Brian, a would-be inventor living alone in rural Wales, manages to create a functioning humanoid robot called Charles with a mannequin’s head and a washing machine for a torso. Adapted from the filmmakers’ own short film, even at ninety minutes this does often feel like an odd, possibly charming idea stretched too far, including an intermittent mockumentary style that the film itself regularly forgets about. Still, David Earl as Brian deserves full credit for leading the film and making the relationship between him and Charles who quickly “grows up” convincing, quietly absorbing even. ✪

Liam Neeson stars in the umpteenth gritty action thriller featuring his interchangeable gruff persona.

Unfortunately, Blacklight’s less Taken than merely tame. Plenty of the hallmarks are there (he’s a retired secret agent, he’s trying to be a family man, the family is vaguely in danger) but it’s a very thin story about him taking on a corrupt FBI in Washington, D.C., with minimal twists or human element. Maybe those things matter less when these films deliver the action goods, but Neeson himself isn’t exactly challenged here. He’s introduced adjusting his rear-view mirror a few times and it’s only slightly more thrilling from there. He gets just a couple of actual fights, otherwise sharing screentime with similarly rote characters and dialogue. ✪

Where Pixar’s creative potential once seemed to reach for infinity and beyond, nowadays they’re left earthbound just like Buzz Lightyear in this spin-off of their first classic Toy Story. Lightyear posits that it’s the film young Andy saw that made him such a big fan of Buzz. That seems very unlikely given how charmless and frankly bumbling the space ranger comes across here. Woody and the other toys are replaced by far less memorable supporting characters, Buzz is missing Tim Allen’s unmistakeable voiceover (instead it’s a much blander Chris Evans), the whole plot is stuck on a single planet despite the spacefaring potential and there’s even a reveal that ruins Buzz’s arch-nemesis Zurg.

This is surely Pixar’s least inspired film yet; having super-polished computer animation isn’t nearly enough anymore. ✪

“Cut-and-paste” shouldn’t be associated with film productions so expensive or well-starred, but sadly new films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been increasingly flimsy.

Thor: Love and Thunder only accelerates that decline. Taika Waititi, undoubtedly a talented creative, directed the previous Thor instalment, Ragnarok, and all his interests from that film go into overdrive here. The film doesn’t so much have a tone as the need to insert as many gags and ad-libbed quips as possible, while playing Guns N’ Roses over digitallysaturated battles (wasting Christian Bale’s acting on a wholly confused villain in the process). In fact, the whole film feels pieced together to achieve the most immediate effect beat by beat, scene by scene, without caring about character, narrative or world-building consistency whatsoever. ✪

Star Rating: 3/5

LIGHTYEAR

THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER

You can follow Jordan on Twitter (@JordanReview) and read his blog at www.reviewsreflections.wordpress.com For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

61

MOTORING

Testing the Juke ADAM TUDOR-LANE reviews the Nissan Juke Hybrid

W

hile electric vehicles still remain out of reach for many, more manufacturers are opting to go down the hybrid route. But it can often be the worst of both worlds, especially when it comes to plug-in variants, but the new hybrid Nissan Juke bucks that trend.

Priced from £27,250, there are three trim levels, N-Connecta, Tekna (£28,750) and Tekna+ (£30,150). The price increase for the hybrid over the petrol automatic is £1,730. Compared to a manual vehicle, the price difference works out at a chunkier £3,230.

There are a few subtle design differences that set the hybrid apart. The black bar along the front of the bonnet – which is the electrified Nissan brand signature, Magnetic Blue and a Ceramic Grey paint options, hybrid badging on the front doors and rear, and new 19” ‘Aero’ alloy wheels.

Now the Juke Hybrid only packs a 1.2 kWh battery, so don’t expect miracles here. Nissan claims up to 20% savings on fuel with the system, and while it’s hard to verify that on a short launch drive, I saw MPG hovering around the 45 mark over mainly town driving, which is a little way off the claimed 55 combined figure.

But now, the good bit, a 25% increase in power bumps performance up to 142 bhp thanks to the 48 bhp electric motor. When out on the road, you certainly notice the sprightlier nature that torque brings with it; it’s almost turbo-like in the way it delivers the power. While it’s far from g-force inducing, you do notice the extra little shove when accelerating hard.

FACTS AT A GLANCE Top Speed: 103 MPH Performance: 0-62 in 11.8 secs Power: 142 BHP Economy: 55 MPG (Claimed) One thing that is quite incredible is how Nissan meshed the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. Usually, this is done by a CVT (Honda, Suzuki, Toyota etc.), and it’s fine, but you get the occasional random rage of revs, and even though it’s largely smooth, you can notice a mild jolt when the motor kicks in. Not so in the Juke.

The way Nissan have gone about it is to almost combine two gearboxes in one. So the EV element has two gears, while the 1.6 litre engine has four. These can then combine via a clutch system to work in parallel.

Anyway, the main takeaway is that it’s buttery smooth. As hard as you try, you cannot tell when EV power is cutting in or out.

It also enables you to do something incredibly cool, one-pedal driving – just like most EVs. Press the ‘e-Pedal’ button by the armrest, and the Juke Hybrid will slow down to 5 MPH when you let off the accelerator, all without touching the brakes. While that’s normal for any EV, it’s like black magic for internal combustion vehicles.

0-62 MPH drops from 11.8 seconds to 10.1 due to the hybrid boost; not quick, but far better than a regular 1.6 litre Juke. You can drive in EV mode, but only up to 34 MPH and for a few miles at best.

In the driver’s seat, you’ll find the normal rev counter replaced with a ‘Charge, Eco and Power’ gauge along with an energy flow graphic showing what powertrain is in use or recharging as you drive.

Beyond that, it’s pretty busy with pods and buttons; you could say it’s looking a little dated compared to the more minimalist look of the latest gen Qashqai. You get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard, but the 8” touchscreen feels somewhat cramped compared to new offerings.

While it remains to be seen how much fuel the hybrid system will save you in real-world driving, it will undoubtedly help – even if marginally. But in terms of the performance boost, that alone makes the Juke a far more engaging proposition than its petrol brother.

For more car news, reviews and motorsport action visit carwitter.com or follow us @car_witter 62

August 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes

PUZZLES

View from the Far Kerb

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

Whack-a-Mole on Windows

1 3 6

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elect the document to open on my PC; think of which password pertains to it during the brief moment it requires to load; click a mouse button to place the cursor within the white area for the password; let my fingers do their magic as they type that secret word, then click ‘OK’ and sit back and wonder at the splendour of whatever I am seeking.

The above is a very long sentence describing something that is a lot quicker to do than it is to read about.

Except that the dialogue box with that white space to enter my passwords, has recently taken to appearing at random places on my screen.

What madness is this?

It is the madness that is computers! Mine has taken to toying with me. The opening sequence is prolonged by having to grab the mouse and move it in order to follow wherever Windows has decided to display the password entry dialogue box for the current instance of document opening.

It is definitely the computer to blame. If I open the same documents from any other computer or device in my household, the procedure is without having to play the game of whack-a-mole. The space in which the memorised sequence of characters has to be typed will appear where expected. No having to hunt for it. No pauses while it waits for me to jump in the wrong direction like a goalie at a football match facing a penalty kick. No

need to struggle to remember the password as my mind is taken with the task of selecting the randomly placed prompt.

What witchcraft is this?

Seemingly black and evil, for it doesn’t matter if it is the same document, nor whether repeatedly closed then reopened. The password dialogue box will appear in a different place every time, except when it doesn’t. Sometimes it likes to throw in a fraction of a second delay, just to throw me off my game then have the thing sit squarely in the middle of the computer screen, all innocent-like.

What craziness is this?

My hair is thinning as I grab it and pull due to my mind being played with and torn apart by a device that is basically very stupid but very fast at being so.

The computer on which this game takes place hasn’t got a big screen. Therefore the wayward dialogue box can never stray too far. However, it can materialise in such a manner as to make the whole process of opening a password protected document fraught with tension. My computer is messing with me and for the moment it is winning, but I have a plan.

Various expert friends have suggested reasons and some have offered to come and have a try at fixing its unruly behaviour. However, I have come up with a solution that I feel will work and release the demons of frustration that have built up within me.

Do you know of the hammer used in whack-a-mole? Well...

PHIL O’HARA

8

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QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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9

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6

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18 19

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20 22

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Clues Across 1. Pupa (9) 6. Bishop’s diocese (3) 8. Self-important (7) 9. Swear (5) 10. Petty quarrel (4) 11. Offer (3) 13. Back of neck (4) 14. Crawl (5) 16. Russian wolfhound (6) 18. Thin fried potatoes (6) 19. Fruit (5)

13

24

26 28

29

31

21. Ailments (4) 22. Eccentric, slightly mad (3) 23. Prods (4) 27. Extreme (5) 28. Scrubbed (7) 30. Gratuity (3) 31. Pierce (9)

Clues Down

1. Trophy (3) 2. Cuban dance (5) 3. Demonstrate (4) 4. Famous film dog (6)

5. Unwell (4) 6. Exceed (7) 7. Mid-morning snack (inf.) (9) 10. Nickname (9) 11. Concise (5) 12. Condemn (5) 14. Male swan (3) 15. Snoop (3) 17. Type of desk (4-3) 20. Motive (6) 24. Main artery (5) 25. Freshwater fish (4) 26. Mail (4) 29. Colouring agent (3)

Solutions to Sudoku and Quick Crossword can be found on page 64 For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | August 2022

63

Your stars LOCAL NEWS

HOWARD PARKER

THE ASTRO-GUIDE

Flavour of the Times - Leo shines bright in August.

Sunflowers, ripened crops, making the most of yourself and shining in your true light. That sort of thing. The downside, though, is when that tips over into narcissism, arrogance and more than a touch of self-centredness. But it is party time, so you can afford to not worry about it, let your hair down and have fun for a while. The autumn comes up on us all far too quickly not to enjoy it.

LEO July 24 – August 23

SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 22

ARIES March 21 – April 20

VIRGO August 24 – September 23

CAPRICORN December 23 – January 20

TAURUS April 21 – May 21

While this month is when you can shine and be your charismatic, fun self, Jupiter offers a caution: make sure you avoid exaggeration, try not to over-play your hand, don’t promise more than you can deliver – these are all things you should keep an eye on in August.

A little gentle humility can, paradoxically, be quite attractive to others though.

You will like the social side of this month. It’s lively and good for parties and friends, but I suspect that if you listen carefully to yourself, there will be moments when you’d rather be off on your own somewhere more interesting and adventurous and possibly alone. Maybe now’s the time to start planning precisely that for the autumn.

Are you in a bit of a party-pooper mood this month? That’s probably why you aren’t being invited to any events, then! Your over-seriousness of purpose does go a little against the grain at this time of year, so see if you can lighten up a bit. Even if some of the people surrounding you are indeed, idiots!

There could well be a tug of war this month between family obligations and work commitments so taking your phone with you to the beach may be unavoidable. Do not let your responsibilities get in the way of having a good time - you certainly deserve the break after everything that has happened lately.

LIBRA September 24 – October 23

Jupiter, in your opposite sign of Aries, is now heading backwards which makes sticking your neck out this month generally not such a good idea. ‘Nothing ventured, nothing gained’ should be replaced by ‘nothing ventured, nothing lost’ for a while just so that you can make a balanced as to how things stand. Time to take stock of where you are going in life rather than speculate aimlessly.

SCORPIO October 24 – November 22

You may be tempted to take chances or risks, possibly in physical activities this month, which does carry a risk of personal injury, so be careful. In other matters, play your cards close to your chest but you may find yourself in danger of being thrust unexpectedly into a leadership role. You are never frightened of a challenge but is it right for you right now? Think it through.

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 19

Like the Leos, you will probably also experience the feeling that things are not unfolding anything like as quickly as you hoped they would. Just because you can see the vision in your mind, doesn’t mean it’s happening! Progress seems limited and the best advice is probably to find some quiet time to work things out for yourself.

Lying in the sun with a drink works well this month!

PISCES February 20 – March 20

This month may leave you a bit hot and flustered with a real sense of not knowing if you are coming or going. Not uncommon for Pisces folk, of course, but with all the confusion in life, you may feel very sensitive about all this and not really in much of a party mood. The full moon on 11th will probably hit you with some stuff you really have to deal with then and there!

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64

PUZZLE

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SOLUTIONS

To really understand what this means for you on a personal level during 2022, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation that is completely specific to you and your life. This will illuminate many things that you may not have considered and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year. * / 9 @ : ( 3 <

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A good party season for all, if you are in the right mood but you may not be entirely, if you are sensitive to undercurrents. You may have a feeling that all the action is happening somewhere else and that you haven’t been invited. Gate crash the party or stay at home and mess with your phone? A definite choice to make but don’t take it all too seriously.

CANCER June 22 – July 23

Home is definitely where the heart is with Venus in your own sign this month, making you really value time with family and relations. Some people will be going over the top but for you, it should just bring up the warm glow of being with people you love deeply. Take time to enjoy this as fully as you can.

Chart readings with me start at £67 and last for an hour on Zoom or Skype. Please go to 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.

If you are interested in discussing and learning more about astrology, why not pop into my Facebook group The Astrocafe | Facebook.

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New things are being born out of the wreckage right now and there is a sense of urgency for change in the air. However, much of the action will be misplaced and in the wrong direction so there is a good chance of more chaos, I’m afraid. Worse, the involvement of Mars and Uranus can be violent, in the sense that volcanoes are a symbol of violent change to the landscape.

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No point just charging ahead with ridiculous amounts of head-strong optimism this month.

A bit of caution, not to say introspection, is required as you are being invited to pause, at least a little, and even ask if the direction you are headed in is actually the right way to go.

Maybe it is time to just slow down and smell the roses, eh?

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GET INVOLVED...

We are always looking for local stories, news and events. If you want to feature or advertise, please email mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

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