MK Pulse January 2022

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Issue 147 | January 2022

The magazine at the heart of Milton Keynes and Bucks

County-wide news, views and stories

What’s going on in your local area

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CONTENTS

From the

Editor

January 2022

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

T

here's plenty coming up to see and do.

Willen Hospice has opened a new store selling locally donated pre-loved and new items. The charity has temporarily taken over the former North Face unit in Midsummer Place, so it will be easy to find, and you can help to raise funds for those who are still affected by the pandemic.

Local actress, Natalie Kassanga, will be putting the good advice to ‘remember where you came from’ into practice as she returns to star as Deena Jones in the multi-award winning musical Dreamgirls at Milton Keynes Theatre in January.

Before Milton Keynes was ever imagined there was already a great tradition of colourful characters who also called North Bucks home during the 19th and 20th centuries. You can learn more about them in Sammy Jones’ interview with local historian, John Taylor.

Although Shrove Tuesday, on 1st March, is still a few weeks away, it seems appropriate that the Pancake Parlour in Olney, home to the oldest and best Pancake Race, has been recognised as the best coffee business and café in Milton Keynes. Everyone loves a pancake!

Talking of things to look forward to, it’s time for Veganuary again – last year more than half a million people pledged to try a vegan diet.

Why not change to plant-based food this month? You could discover a whole new way of eating. And remember, it’s the Bletchley Vegan Market on 8th January where you can explore vegan street food, artisan bakers, and craft brewers, along with ethical jewellers, zerowaste champions and environmental charities.

While we’re thinking about the environment, did you know that Olney has its own family-run refill store? At Green Way 2 Shop you can top up your own containers with cleaning products and dry foods.

Enjoy a sustainable January everyone!

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 WEDNESDAY MONDAY 8TH 12TH FEBRUARY JANUARY 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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NEWS

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INTERVIEW

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RELATIONSHIPS

22

LOCAL HISTORY

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PULSE PICS

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HEALTH & FITNESS

37

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BEAUTY

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FOOD & DRINK

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HOME & GARDEN

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MK MAYOR

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WHAT’S ON

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PUZZLES

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YOUR STARS

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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.

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NEWS

Willen Hospice to open new pop up boutique shop in Midsummer Place, CMK Willen Hospice has opened a new store in the Midsummer Place shopping centre in Central Milton Keynes.

I

t has taken over the former Northface unit on a temporary basis after being offered the opportunity by Midsummer Place management.

It is a “unique” opportunity for the charity to raise vital funds after continuing to be severely impacted by the pandemic, the hospice says.

Mark Rawlins, associate director of commercial at Willen Hospice, said: “We are incredibly excited by this opportunity to expand our retail presence in Milton Keynes.

This will be the first charity shop to open in a high-end retail shopping centre and this will be reflected in the range we have on offer.”

The store will sell “pre-loved” and new items donated locally to the hospice, including clothing, accessories, toys and exclusive vintage and retro items.

Mr Rawlins said the hospice’s ability to raise the £4.7 million it needs every year to deliver its specialist end of life care had been hit hard by the pandemic. “Our fundraising income generated through retail and events has been severely impacted over the

Willen Hospice - This will be the first charity shop to open in a high-end retail shopping centre

past 18 months. This new store is a light at the end of a tunnel and we are very grateful to Midsummer Place for their generosity.”

Creative production company BCQ Group, based at Buckingham, has sponsored and produced the in-store point of sale, signage and digital signage.

Midsummer Place’s general manager Shelley Peppard said: “We have always been an integral part of our local

community and it is a great pleasure to welcome Willen Hospice into the centre.

As we have an empty store, it seemed the perfect opportunity to help our local community.

“Their store will give our shoppers an enhanced choice and a chance to support a very worthy cause.”

The shop cannot accept any donations due to the limited floor space available.

Supporters wishing to donate should drop any unwanted good-quality, clean items at the Kiln Farm Distribution Centre. Donation bookings can be made by visiting www.willen-hospice.org.uk/ donate-items or any of the other 12 Willen Hospice shops in the area.

Mr Rawlins said: “Throughout the pandemic, our commitment to our patients has not wavered. This retail opportunity is so important to help generate vital income needed to continue delivering our compassionate care for people at the most difficult time in their lives.”

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NEWS

A

new campaign is under way to tackle loneliness and isolation across Milton Keynes.

The Imagine Having No One campaign is being run by Age UK Milton Keynes, an independent charity that supports the local over-55 population. Its aim is to highlight the plight of almost 17,000 older people who live alone in the borough and to raise funds to continue the work of the charity, its staff and army of 400-plus volunteers.

Age UK Milton Keynes had more than 21,500 interactions last year, delivering support through its services such as Independent Living, Befriending, Information & Advice, Emergency Support and Hospital Aftercare. The charity also helps clients to access to welfare benefits – more than £800,000 in total during 2021.

Demand for the charity’s services has risen considerably in the pandemic, including delivery of more than 4,600 cooked meals.

“The pandemic may end but loneliness continues,” says Age UK Milton Keynes’ development manager Paula Ayers. “Many older people are still reluctant to go out and most people can relate to that because we have all felt isolated and alone at some point over the past couple of years since the pandemic began.”

Age UK Milton Keynes is a partner of the national Age UK organisation but is independent and responsible for its own funding, which comes from donations,

‘The pandemic may end but loneliness continues’ The charity Age UK Milton Keynes has launched a campaign highlighting the plight of the lonely and isolated across the borough and needs your support to continue its vital work.

Left to right: development manager Paula Ayres and executive director Denise Stygal-Watson

legacies, fundraising and revenue from seven shops across the borough and the Home and Furniture store at Kiln Farm. Although the charity employs 143 people, only 19 are full time.

“We are struggling financially and we want to make more people aware of what we do.

We need this campaign to work so we can continue to support our growing client base,” says Denise Stygal-Watson, the charity’s executive director.

“Everybody has gone through or may still be going through a feeling of loneliness, isolation and having nowhere to turn.

“We need to create some funds and the campaign is about that and making people aware of what we do. But above all the campaign is about highlighting loneliness and isolation and their effect on people across the city.” >> Find out more about the campaign at www.ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk

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INTERVIEW

Natalie’s dream role in Dreamgirls Pics: Matt Crockett

Multi-award winning musical Dreamgirls makes its Milton Keynes debut in January as part of its first ever tour of the UK, and the cast features a familiar face; MK actress Natalie Kassanga. Natalie talked with Pulse’s Sammy Jones about her burgeoning career.

T

he first time Natalie appeared on the MK Theatre stage, she was among an ensemble of ‘sewer kids’ in a touring production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Fast-forward a little longer than a decade, and Natalie is back, starring as Deena Jones in the altogether more glitzy Dreamgirls. In the movie version, that role was taken by Beyoncé.

She is following in the footsteps of music royalty and it’s fair to say this is a dream role for our girl.

“Absolutely. Dreamgirls was a huge part of my childhood,” the 24-year-old actress tells me during a break from rehearsals, “I remember watching the film for the very first time back in 2006, when I was nine-years-old, and being in such awe of what I was seeing and hearing.

“It really inspired my love of music...”

Dreamgirls tells the story of three talented young singers, the Dreams, back in the turbulent 1960s. It was a revolutionary time in American music history, and ticket-holders will follow Effie, Lorrell and Deena as they embark 12

upon a musical rollercoaster ride through a world of fame, fortune and the ruthless realities of show business. It’s a journey that also tests their friendships to the limit.

The show has some great big musical numbers like Listen and And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going, but it tackles some heavy subjects and comes with a weight of responsibility for its cast.

“It does carry a lot of weight,” Natalie agrees, “There is a lot of responsibility to portray the story in the correct way, but also in a way that audience members can take away the history, and an understanding of how pop culture works, and of the experiences American artists encountered back in the 60s to the late 70s; the struggles they faced to be seen, heard and accepted.

“It’s not just about the glitz and glamour, the outfits, the music and the fame. It’s about manipulation, and adjusting to what you think is right for you, and seeing the struggles they go through as a family,” Natalie says.

“Dreamgirls have grown up with each other, especially Deena and Effie. They both share the same dream, but they let this man come in between them, and Deena especially loses her way in the industry and doesn’t see where she belongs anymore.

“Finally finding her ground and her voice within the show is something extremely powerful and very inspirational. It’s very educational,” she says, “It does definitely show discrimination and the lack of equality in regards to people of colour and black music and trying to cross it over to the pop charts.

It was extremely difficult to win over the white stations and white listeners.”

Natalie grew up listening to the vocal prowess of icons including Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Diana Ross, and now she’s playing a role said to be loosely modelled on The Supremes vocalist.

But it’s not the first time. Natalie previously enjoyed a turn as Diana Ross in Motown: The Musical, too. How did it feel landing that role?

“I can honestly say to you that I never ever would have seen that coming – to be playing a lead, but not only that, to be playing an iconic artist. It’s not a character and isn’t based on fiction, it’s a big responsibility I never thought I could achieve.

“I’ve been raised in a family who taught me to be humble, and to never see myself as anything bigger than I am, and to be given the

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

INTERVIEW

opportunity to put myself in Diana Ross’ shoes was amazing...and I’ve gone and bloody done it!” she says with an excited laugh.

Does she feel a certain affinity with Miss Ross?

“She stays with me wherever I go,” giggles Natalie.

The nature of her work means Natalie is frequently in London, but her roots are here in the new town, and she still commutes daily from her home in Bletchley.

“Coming home really takes me out of the lifestyle of being in this industry, it takes me away from the noise and the drama, and puts me back into reality. It humbles me.

“Rather than Oxford Circus and Bond Street I can just go to MK1. I love that. London is my second home, but to come back to MK to be with my family and my friends helps me to stay grounded.”

And though her career is going from strength to strength, this actress isn’t about to be swept up by the industry nonsense.

“As cliché as it may sound, the best advice I was given was, ‘Remember where you came from and remember those who made a huge contribution to your career.’ It’s very easy to forget your core background, and forget those that helped you get where you are today - and that’s not just family, it includes teachers, friends and those who were a part of your training.

“That was honestly the biggest advice and I’ve never forgotten that.”

... the best advice I was given was, ‘Remember where you came from and remember those who made a huge contribution to your career.’

Natalie, who made her West End debut as a 10-year-old, starring as Young Nala in The Lion King, took what she calls ‘a diversion’ in her career a few years ago, stepping on board The X Factor juggernaut in 2015, competing as part of the girl group, Alien.

“The X Factor was something I always wanted to be a part of. I always think everything happens for a reason, and think I needed that detour.

“Taking that time out, and being in that experience reminded me that my love for musical theatre is a lot heavier than the music industry,” she says, although her Spotify playlist reflects her passion for r&b, soul and pop, and she admits she hasn’t kicked the door shut on a music career forever.

But with the X-Factor experience behind her, Natalie wanted to reconnect with her first love. She didn’t even have an agent when she bagged that aforementioned role in Motown: The Musical.

Natalie Kassanga stars as Deena Jones in Dreamgirls at MK Theatre

“When I was told I would be playing the role of Diana Ross my response was, ‘Are you sure?’” Natalie remembers, giving credit to renowned casting director Pippa Ailion, “She really saw something in me and believed in me.”

Dreamgirls is a plum job with the tour rolling right the way through to 2023. And then? The sky’s the limit.

“I mean, who knows, you might see me as Tina Turner! Who bloody knows?”

Natalie laughs.

“It’ll be good to branch out of that spectrum and to do something to have that full circle moment – being back in The Lion King as older Nala would be amazing,” she considers.

Natalie’s passion for musical theatre is obvious, but it has taken her a while to understand what others have long seen in her. Dreamgirls has finally given her that self-belief: “I always said to myself that I would love to be a Dreamgirl,” she admits, “To land a second leading role confirmed I am meant to do this. This is my life and I am loving it...”

> Dreamgirls plays at Milton Keynes Theatre from January 25 to February 5, 2022. Visit atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes to book.

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

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RELATIONSHIPS

Five points to consider before a divorce or separation If you are wondering whether to proceed with a divorce or separation, it is always a good idea to think things through carefully first. We take a look at what to consider if you are contemplating a divorce and how you can prepare if you do decide to go ahead.

Keshini Rajendra and the Heald Family Department deal with separations and divorces with kindness and good sense.

Artemis House, 4 Bramley Road Milton Keynes MK1 1PT

1. Where do you want to be in five years’ time?

It can sometimes help to look ahead and ask yourself what you want from life. If you are going through a difficult patch in a relationship, is it something you feel you want to work through, or do you see yourself moving on without your spouse?

If you come to the conclusion that you do want to separate, then it may helpful to try and look at matters from a practical point of view and start putting a plan into place. You will need to consider issues such as where you will live, how you will support yourself and what steps to take next.

2. Children If you have children, then a major concern is likely to be how they will deal with a breakup. If you do decide to separate, then try and make a plan together with their other parent dealing with the difficult issues of telling them and sharing the parenting as you move into the next phase of your lives.

If you are able to agree a parenting plan with their other parent, it is a good idea to put this in writing, so that you can refer back to it in the future if necessary.

3. Find the support you need It goes without saying that this is likely to be a difficult time. Finding support will help, whether this is from friends or family or professionals, such as a counsellor and a solicitor. Professionals will be able to set out your options for you. A counsellor can help you analyse what action you want to take, while a family lawyer will be able to talk you through the steps you will need to make prior to a divorce and explain what you might expect from a financial settlement.

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.

4. Decide on your approach If you do decide to divorce, you need to be clear on the approach you will be taking. You can deal with some issues yourself, but there is a risk that you could lose out if you take certain steps in the wrong order or if you agree to something that is not in your best interests.

A family law solicitor will be able to ensure that your rights and interests are observed and can often

negotiate on your behalf with your spouse or their solicitor to agree on contentious issues such as finances, property and children.

It is important to take legal advice before agreeing to a financial settlement to ensure that you do not lose out. By way of example, pensions form part of the matrimonial assets to be shared on divorce, but they are sometimes forgotten or not included by individuals who undertake a DIY divorce.

It is also the case that if you take on some of the work yourself, the process could stall, and you may end up waiting a long time for matters to be finalised. It might also end up costing you more in the long run with a lawyer having to look over all the paperwork, piece together what is outstanding, and rectify any mistakes that are made. If part of your financial matter has been dealt with without advice, it might also be difficult or impossible for a lawyer to undo this and it may affect the outcome of your case.

5. Preparation You can start collating your paperwork so that if you do decide to go ahead, you have your records ready. You will both be required to fully disclose your finances to each other. This means providing documentary evidence of all of your assets and liabilities.

For expert advice contact our experienced divorce solicitors At Heald Solicitors, our family law team are friendly and approachable as well as being experts in divorce law and associated issues such as arrangements for children and financial agreements.

If you are considering divorce or separation and you would like to talk to us about your options and what might happen next if you decide to go ahead, please feel free to get in touch.

Speak to our head of family law, Keshini Rajendra, by emailing her at keshini.rajendra@healdlaw.com or call her on 01908 662277.

16

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

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SAT 8th JAN ‘22

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Bicester Village home to more than 160 stores from leading British & International designers. With names such as soho home, charlotte Tilbury, Manolo Blahnik, Mulberry, Smythson, Vivienne Westwood and more all offering year round savings.

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SAT 15th JAN ‘22 Silverstone Experience

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At the end of your visit, you can experience the thrill of speeding around Silverstone alongside racing heroes in a dramatic, immersive show, ‘The ultimate lap of Silverstone’ with commentary by Murray Walker.

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Includes ticket. 2:30pm performance – Seats After the coveted Glitterball Trophy has been awarded for each series, fans look forward to seeing a selection of celebrities and professional dancers hit the road in the new year to showcase their best performances recreating all the smooth moves and magic live on stage. In addition to the incredible chorography and wonderful music that Strictly is revered for, the tour offers an evening of dance entertainment that’s full of glitz, glamour and excitement.

Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 11am and leaves from Birmingham at 5.30pm.

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Call 01908 613000 to book or for more information.

History comes to life at MK Museum, with fascinating stories, memorable events, exhibits we encourage you to touch and loads to see for every age and interest! > Browse our Street of Shops > Explore toys from another age in our Story of Childhood exhibit > Call your friends in the Connected Earth Gallery > Experience a WW2 air raid in our Anderson Shelter > Join a lesson in our Victorian Schoolroom > Challenge the family to a game in the Farmhouse > Meet the famous concrete cows > ‘Ride’ the world’s largest steam tramcar in our Hall of Transport and much, much more!

Opening hours 10.30am-4.30pm, Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday from January 5, 2022, Wednesday - Sunday from February 16, 2022

Visit: McConnell Drive, Wolverton, MK12 5EL – PARKING IS FREE Discover more: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk Be social with us! @mkmuseum @miltonkeynesmuseum 20

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

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21

LOCAL HISTORY

The Almshouses at Great Linford Pic: The Parks Trust

The faces who occupied the places we now call home M The lives of the colourful characters who called this part of North Bucks home during the 19th and 20th centuries are being remembered and their stories told in a series of new books. Sammy Jones delved into the pages written by historian John Taylor.

22

ilton Keynes might not officially be a city in name yet, but it has all of the associated success, concrete and bustle of one. Big business brands flock here, new housing estates seem to appear almost overnight, and even our once clean skyline is being encroached upon.

Looking around us today, it can be hard to imagine a time when life here was far more rural, and even harder to imagine the lives of those who lived, loved and worked in our villages and towns.

John Taylor has spent 50 years writing about our local history, and his new Village Stories series is a wonderfully warm and thorough way to retrace local steps of our predecessors.

“With the city now well established, many present day residents seem to think it perhaps just wafted down from the heavens ready built and aren't aware that previously the area was predominantly agricultural, with village communities and a way of life which existed for centuries,” John said.

“As one who remembers 'how it used to be,' my intent is just to tell something of the people and places of those past communities, before they, and their rural way of life, are forgotten.”

And his writing tells stories of day-to-day life, tales of wealth and success, and others of tragedy.

John's books explore the marvellously mundane (details of fetes and galas, and minor brushes with the law) through to the

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

LOCAL HISTORY

celebratory (of marriages and children) and the decidedly sombre as death comes calling – and sometimes it does so in particularly cruel and gruesome ways.

Broughton's volume sheds light on the passing of Percy Adams, a dairy farmer, who took his own life in 1927 with his sporting gun.

His death left a widow and three sons and three daughters in mourning, but an inquest held at the family home of Broughton Manor Farm the day following his death found that Mr. Adams had suffered fits of depression and had talked of suicide on many occasions, and despite there being no money worries, he would often fret over 'trifling things' because of his condition.

Chief medical officer Dr Bailey, from Newport Pagnell, said the deceased had been a hard working man who became overworked, had a heart degeneration and had suffered a nervous breakdown.

Tragically, with the business proving too much for him, he had often spoken that his family would be better off without him.

Another story shares the loss of life of stockman Morian Alfred Noah Trumper, who spent nearly 20 years in employment at the

As one who remembers 'how it used to be,' my intent is just to tell something of the people and places of those past communities, before they, and their rural way of life, are forgotten.

The couple who served their community 'with love, laughter and song' Copies of An Horrod Lad by Terry Smith are currently for sale in Milton Keynes Museum shop.

Terry wrote the book, which records village life in Little Horwood in the period immediately after WWII, as a tribute to his mother and father, Albert and Mary.

“I realised that I was the 'last man standing' who could tell the story of a special generation of people,” he said.

“It's the story of a girl from Henley Workhouse and Bledlow Children's Home and a Dr Barnardos boy who came together in a field at Warren Farm in wartime and who served their community with love, laughter and song – and downright hard work – for 62 years thereafter.

“They found themselves in the middle of 'The Secret Wireless War' working for George Gee, a mega London builder who bought up many farms in Little Horwood between 1937 and 1938, all of them on high ground where wireless masts could be erected...”

The book is particularly personal for Terry, given that it includes his parent's story written in their own words, together with the timeline of notable history of the village.

Albert & Mary on their wedding day at Newport Pagnell registry office on 4th November 1941 (above) and a celebration party at Little Horwood Manor, Christmas 1945 (below)

farm. In 1938 he suffered a splinter in the base of his thumb while using a fork to load manure. An insignificant 'wound' you might think, and he must have done too, for it was some time before he consulted a doctor and attended hospital where an inch long splinter was discovered still embedded in the thumb. A tetanus infection was diagnosed and treatment started, but bronchial pneumonia set in and less than three weeks later, Morian passed away.

A verdict of accidental death was recorded.

John and Ann Marsh would also meet a untimely end; when driving their carriage in early 1858, part of the harness snapped, their horse broke into a furious gallop and the carriage hit a high kerb with such force it threw out Mr Marsh and, as the carriage toppled over, Mrs Marsh was jerked out. She suffered a blow across her face, 'by which the gold plate retaining her artificial teeth was driven into her throat.'

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

23

LOCAL HISTORY

It sounds awful, and so it proved to be – for while the gold plate would be removed, it wasn't enough to save her and she died a few hours later.

The horse was badly injured and the coach was written off.

Just short of a month after the accident, Mr Marsh succumbed to his injuries, which included fractured ribs and several contusions.

A stained glass window commemorating the couple was placed in Broughton Church later that same year.

Great Linford is steeped in history, and John has managed to fuse some of its better known moments with forgotten stories of many of its most colourful characters like Jim Gloster, the village 'horse whisperer' and Jack Pool, the man who delivered cutting edge music in the very truest sense with his musical saw!

The village's picturesque almshouses, which overlook the ancient village pond, were built at the end of the seventeenth century, at the request of the lord of the manor, Sir William Pritchard.

Following Sir William's death, his wife gave £6 annually to provide each of the six occupants 'a gown and breeches, or gown and petticoat, dependent on gender,' every Christmas.

Bishop Thomas Jenkins

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Group photo of the Jenkins family

Each resident had a fireplace flanked by cupboards, a washstand and a through corridor. Primitive, but undoubtedly appreciated by those fortunate enough to be living there.

The substantial look at Shenley includes an in-depth focus on those who called Shenley House home over the years.

The impressive Jenkins family from the village who all excelled in their chosen fields have their stories told too; Thomas moved to America and became a Bishop, Alfred became a distinguished headmaster, and Harold was a renowned Shakespearean scholar.

Loughton, Shenley & Tattenhoe also casts light on the not so right and proper activities of the wayward masters of Kingsland School, accommodated at Shenley Park House.

“The actual villain of the piece was a character once associated with it, with a tale of bankruptcy, fraud, imprisonment, and the running of a series of private schools in a script akin to Keystone Cops meets St Trinians!” John teases.

...one wonders what those characters of yesterday would think of the place we call home today...

By making good use of public records, searching the archives of newspapers, and by scrimping on no detail, John has turned back time on our corner of North Bucks and brought colour to times past.

Investing some time in these chapters allows you to share in the lives of the men, women and children who called this area home long before us.

But though we can look back, one wonders what those characters of yesterday would think of the place we call home today... > Great Linford, Loughton and Shenley & Tattenhoe and Broughton Village Stories are available from Waterstones in Central Milton Keynes, or can be purchased at Odell in Stony Stratford and Mrs B's Emporium in Wolverton.

Online orders can be made from the publisher at magicflutepublishing.com

Milton Keynes Museum is one of the best interactive museums, a perfect outing for all ages, staffed by friendly volunteers, and highly recommended by visitors on TripAdvisor.

This feature was written by Milton Keynes Museum. Find out more about forthcoming events and see our opening times at: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

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

ONE MONTH RENT FREE Live safe and well at The Hawthorns, a warm and friendly all-inclusive rental retirement community for the over 70s and enjoy your seventh month on us.*

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Treading a new path in 2022?

I Emily Pope Solicitor - Divorce and Family Law Neves Solicitors LLP Aurora House Deltic Avenue Rooksley Milton Keynes MK13 8LW

01908 304560 www.nevesllp.co.uk

t’s the New Year! For family lawyers everywhere, the typical cliché rings true that this is the busiest time of year, as couples inevitably re-evaluate their relationships over the festive break and, in some cases, take the decision to separate. There are so many things to consider when you take the first step of announcing your decision and undoubtedly if you are reading this article you will be feeling a little daunted about what needs to happen next.

It is always a good idea to seek advice as to the things you should be considering and the most appropriate way forwards both legally and practically. As a minimum, we would recommend booking an initial fixed fee consultation with a solicitor to help you understand your options following a relationship breakdown. Even if you then choose to negotiate arrangements between yourselves, an understanding of your position will help you to make future plans with confidence.

Consulting a solicitor is something that many people rarely ever do, unless purchasing a property or making a will.

The prospect of going to see a solicitor can be a daunting one. This article should help to alleviate some of your concerns, by giving you an overview of

26

the sorts of things we would discuss with you in an initial consultation and how it can help you to navigate your separation.

We will usually start the appointment by asking you a little bit about why you have come to see us and the events leading up to you booking an appointment. Do not worry - we are not expecting a perfect account, just an overview of the situation which has caused you to consult a solicitor.

We will then ask for basic details for yourself, your former partner and your children.

For married couples, consideration will need to be given as to whether to start the divorce process. For some, particularly in relationships which have ended with hostility, this will be a priority to enable them to move on with their lives. Others would prefer to wait until they have been separated some time. We will talk you through the process, practical considerations and costs.

After separation, it will also be necessary to start having conversations with your partner about how you are going to deal with joint assets following your separation. It is important to consider how both

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

of you are going to meet your needs moving forward. We will ask you a number of questions about the assets that yourself and your partner own and give you a steer as to where you stand legally and what a sensible way forward might look like. We will also give you tips on how to maximise your income following separation, including advice on child maintenance, state benefits and (where applicable) support from your former partner.

Last, but most definitely not least, we may ask you some questions regarding the arrangements for your children. It can be really difficult to co-parent after a relationship breakdown and ensure that children are not affected by any underlying tensions or emotions that parents feel towards one another. Sorting out arrangements for your children is always a priority and often something which parents are able to agree between themselves. However, if you are struggling to have contact with your children following a relationship breakdown then we can advise you of the best way to proceed to reestablish a pattern of contact.

We hope that this guide will help if you are considering taking legal advice but are hesitant to take that first step.

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Are you ready to rethink retirement?

Covid-19 has caused people to re-think what’s important to them, including how they spend their later years.

Meet the communities where over 65s are making the most of the freedom retirement brings and possibly living the best years of their lives.

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he pandemic has encouraged us all to re-evaluate our lives and what matters most to us, and interestingly we have seen a large uptick in enquiries to live in one of our villages,” says James Cobb, Director at Inspired Villages, the award-winning retirement villages' operator partnered with Legal & General and NatWest Group Pension Fund.

The retirement communities Inspired runs offers stylish homes and apartments discreetly designed to accommodate older owners, with leisure and wellbeing facilities right on their doorstep, as well as optional home support services. With a particular focus on delivering an enviable lifestyle for over 65s that supports a holistic wellbeing.

Cobb believes the uptick in enquiries is partly because people have realised they want to live somewhere right for the retirement they dream about. “The size of their house and the burden that it has become is often a catalyst to ‘right size’ – finding something more suitable,” explains Cobb. “And with all the services and facilities available in a retirement village in reality it often feels like an ‘upgrade’.”

Inspired Villages currently operates six retirement villages across the UK spanning

'Stylish homes and apartments discreetly designed to accommodate older owners'

from Devon up to Cheshire, with a few more due to open in 2022 including Elderswell near Turvey in Bedfordshire.

For many residents and their children one of the benefits of a retirement village is the peace of mind you get from knowing the village team is there to provide security and support if needed. From housekeeping and property maintenance to local transport and checking in on your home while you ‘lock up and leave’ for an extended break, there is a team member more than happy to help.

This secure environment gives residents the freedom to relax, have fun and take up new hobbies. There are numerous activities and events organised by the Wellbeing Navigators in the villages to help residents make the most of their free time.

It is also a great way of keeping healthy as you age.

Veronica, a resident at Inspired’s Exeter village Millbrook, says: “I feel fitter here now than I’ve ever done.” She swims in the pool at Millbrook every day and goes to the gym three times a week.

Experiences like this chime with research done by Aston University that shows living in a retirement village leads to a 46% decrease in planned GP visits, a 31% decrease in planned hospital admissions and a drop in hospital stay durations from 8-14 days to 1-2 days.

Community, security, wellbeing, fun, and freedom. It’s not hard to see why enquiries from people wanting to live in an Inspired village are rocketing up. As many residents like Tricia say, it’s the “best move we’ve ever made”. >> To find out more about living in an Inspired village visit www.inspiredvillages.co.uk

Book your appointment online today

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

29

PULSE PICS

Animals great and very, very small, celebrity faces, and much missed places – here are this month’s Pulse Pics...

A tiny Panther chameleon has been hatched at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The 3cm-long baby chameleon was photographed by zookeepers perching on pencils and scampering up a keeper’s finger.

The little lizard has been nicknamed “Titch” by keepers, until they are able to identify whether it is male or female.

Pic: ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Woburn Safari Park’s Asian Elephants have been enjoying their own catering service; tons of tree cuttings from local gardeners Carol and Robert.

They have spent the last 20 years delivering an array of branches and leaves to the herd, including their favourite willow and silver branch. Keepers estimate that so far the elephants have consumed more than 240 tons!

Emma Street captured this stunning early morning shot from Caldecotte Lake, looking towards the Brickhills.

“I’ve never driven the car so fast to make sure I got there in time to catch it!” she said. It was well worth the dash!

Pic: Woburn Safari Park

The Point turned 36 years old, and there was much excitement as the much-loved building was illuminated again.

Jason Brunel Ayres took this great shot: “I was completely overwhelmed seeing its famous pyramid red lights gleaming, and reliving some fantastic memories of meeting friends and going inside to enjoy the fantastic facilities,” he said, “Then a moment of sadness thinking this is probably the final time as the whole building is now closed and its future is bleak.”

When funnyman Harry Hill stopped off at Wavendon venue The Stables to promote his new page-turner, Fight! he had some support – Nikki Bloomer, area events support with Waterstones, kept the till ringing with book sales.

Celebrity gardener and TV presenter Charlie Dimmock visited McCarthy Stone’s Jupiter House Retirement Living development in Milton Keynes, sharing gardening tips with residents.

“We had a wonderful time discussing an eclectic mix of gardening questions covering how to maintain colour and greenery in the colder winter months, as well as a few Garden Rescue questions,” Charlie said.

30

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

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he, world is full of preconceived ideas about what we should be doing, how and when we should be doing it.

Here at Home Instead we're challenging those views and throwing away the unwritten rule book when it comes to our CAREGivers.

We celebrate the individuality of our CAREGivers, it's the very essence of what makes us human. It's these traits that make us who we are and will make a real difference to our clients' lives. Our CAREGivers don't just turn up to make the tea or make the lunch, they bring themselves to the conversation, their personality, their life experiences, their interest in our clients' lives.

Studies have shown how positive relationships and shared activities contribute to our wellbeing.

Equally, loneliness and social isolation increase health risks in older people (Age UK). Big life events such as retirement, bereavement and ill health play a part as we age and our social networks ultimately reduce in size. While evidence is not yet conclusive, research points towards social engagement reducing the risk of dementia. When you think about it, it makes perfect sense that having meaningful social interactions with friends and family, means you're using your brain. So the phrase, "use it or lose it" has never been so important when it comes to cognitive decline as we age. It is well accepted the importance of physical fitness and movement of our bodies but our brains often get forgotten.

Fundamentally we seek to interact with other humans and our clients at Home Instead need this now more than ever.

You could be that person to make a real difference.

The real you We're looking for people that love being who they are and are looking for a change in career to something immensely worthwhile. Your interest in supercharged cars, salsa dancing, gardening, golf, politics, big earrings, your pet, unusual hobbies, is what we value. Do you enjoy conversations about what's going on in the world today?

Forget preconceived ideas about carers, Home Instead cares differently, with a minimum of one hour visits, there’s time to chat away. We ask you to bring your unique skills and interests to the role, whatever they may be. We match clients and CAREGivers to deliver companion-led person-centred care the 'Home Instead way'.

No matter what your background, what you did in your last role, if you're looking for a new challenge, something rewarding, call us today on 01908 774333 or email emily.bartram@miltonkeynes.homeinstead.co.uk. www.homeinstead.co.uk/miltonkeynes #YouCanCare

A career that makes a

difference

Lisa worked in retail over Christmas, she once had a role as a barista and spent some time as a nanny. All of that experience has led her to a rewarding role she feels comfortable with and thoroughly enjoys.

Join our team

Call 01234 01908 567890 774333 or or visit visit https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/milton-keynes homeinstead.co.uk/officelocation

Each Home Instead franchise is independently owned and operated. Copyright © Home Instead® 2021.

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

33

Education

Start your journey with Ousedale Sixth Form

O

usedale Sixth Form has a long tradition of success, consistently achieving excellent results at GCE Advanced Level in all subjects and vocational routes. They have excellent study facilities and all classrooms are fitted with the latest technology. With over 400 pupils in their Sixth Form, Ousedale are proud to offer an ambitious, broad curriculum. Here is what one of their pupils has to say: I am studying Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Further Maths as well as undertaking an EPQ. The dedication of the excellent teachers at Ousedale Sixth Form (especially throughout the pandemic) has made me feel calm and relaxed as I progress to my final exams. I feel involved in my lessons and am confident that I have access to all the resources required for my subjects. I came to Ousedale Sixth Form for the excellent

teaching but I discovered the best thing about it is the positive community spirit of the students and staff. Whilst writing my personal statement and preparing my university application, I was supported and helped by several members of staff and even fellow students. I would recommend studying here because if you aspire to excellence, you will find people here to help you get there.” Ivo - Ousedale School.

Ivo - Ousedale School pupil

Ousedale’s new Sixth Form Prospectus 2022/24 which includes details about their facilities, opportunities available and the courses they will be offering, is now available to view on their website. They will also be launching their new Sixth Form introduction video on Thursday 6th January. >> Visit their website for full details www.ousedale.org.uk

Ousedale Sixth Form

Students are: Well prepared to leave Sixth Form and pursue their goals…

Sixth Form students feel that staff support them well. Students appreciate the varied sessions on personal development…

Committed teachers use their excellent subject knowledge to ensure that all pupils, and particularly pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), achieve well.

OFSTED (January 2020)

Students achieve well at Ousedale Sixth Form: • • • •

Top performing school in Milton Keynes at A Level/vocational courses Typically, a third of students gain a place at Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge Dedicated careers department with established relationships with a range of organisations Dedicated UCAS and ‘widening opportunities’ team

At Ousedale School:

• We consider all applications • We personalise and tailor the curriculum to meet the needs of our students • We believe that Further Education opportunities should be accessible and available to as many young people as possible • Provision includes a wide range of A Level and vocational courses. We also provide extensive opportunities for personal development

Sixth Form students at Ousedale benefit from: • Bursary funding available, including travel

Sixth Form Open Evening

Thursday 6th January 2022, 5.30pm-8.30pm at our Newport Pagnell Campus

Presentations will be held at: 5.30pm, 6.30pm and 7.30pm Presentations will be followed by a tour of the Sixth Form

To book on one of our three presentations, visit our website to register for the event:

www.ousedale.org.uk

Tickets are limited to ensure social distancing, book early to avoid disappointment!

Newport Pagnell Campus - The Grove, Olney Campus - Aspreys, Newport Pagnell MK16 0BJ Tel: 01908 210203 Olney MK46 5LF Tel: 01234 717480 www.ousedale.org.uk Headteacher: Mr Andy Burton

• Specialist staff in a range of A Level and vocational courses • High level of pastoral support and a dynamic Student Leadership Team • A purpose built Sixth Form Centre and excellent IT • Excellent progression rates to Higher Education/Apprenticeships and study facilities • Opportunities to participate and compete in sport and • Wide-ranging enrichment activities including DofE, national competitions, music, ‘InvestIN’ courses and debating perform in the Arts

34

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

SSAT EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES AWARDS 2019 AW

HEALTH & FITNESS

Gynaecological health

Landmark report says that “social stigma” and “lack of awareness” are to blame for thousands of women suffering in silence from gynaecological conditions.

A

new survey published in November has confirmed a lack of awareness, social stigma and the fear of speaking up about gynaecological health contribute to delays in diagnosis and access to specific healthcare services for women.

The findings are part of large survey led by Circle Health Group, and supported by health charity Wellbeing of Women. In total, 10,360 women responded to questions on the wider impact of women’s health on several factors of their lives, including their careers, romantic relationships, sleep and mental health.

The report published on 8 November 2021 concluded that women do not always feel empowered or informed enough to speak up about their gynaecological health issues. Moreover, the report highlights that there needs to be a

'There needs to be a greater level of awareness regarding women’s health'

greater level of awareness regarding women’s health amongst healthcare professionals and the wider population.

While diagnosis times vary by condition, the findings show that women can wait years for a correct diagnosis. In the case of endometriosis, 27% of respondents waited 10 years or more to get a

diagnosis, with an average waiting time of between five and six years.

Across all conditions, a startling statistic of between 10% and 20% of respondents have never been given a conclusive diagnosis.

The report also shines an important light on the wider impact conditions like endometriosis have on women’s professional lives. Of

those that responded, 81% said that they had missed work as a result of their condition and a shocking 90% said that this has affected their mental health.

The research findings go on to show that 22% of women who responded said they felt embarrassed or ashamed to talk about their condition, with some respondents going as far as to say they could not speak openly about it with their friends and family.

Gynaecological problems are also having an impact on relationships, with respondents saying it has impacted the people around them.

In addition, 59% of respondents said it affects their romantic relationships with others saying that a relationship has ended because of it.

The important takeaway from the report is that more women, charities and healthcare professionals are speaking up about the need to inform and support women dealing with gynaecological and reproductive health issues. BMI Healthcare have a network of specialists to help women with their health issues.

To learn more about the research published by Circle Health Group and the Gynaecology services available at BMI The Saxon Clinic, visit: www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/hospitals/bmi-the-saxon-clinic/private-gynaecology-milton-keynes

Heald Law Advert v2 copy2.pdf 15/12/2021 16:54:28

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

35

KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE

FOR BETTER BUSINESS

DO YOU WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR COMPETITIVENESS, SKILLS AND INNOVATION ABILITY? Delivered by the University of Northampton and its trusted partners, Knowledge Exchange for Better Business enables small businesses across Northamptonshire to develop and grow by offering free tailored support packages, including: access to expertise through consultancy, webinars & focused programmes

peer networking & business support organisation memberships

virtual assistants & fully funded internships

access to project management courses, mentoring & coaching Environmental assessments & action plans

TO FIND OUT MORE, CONTACT US ON

BUSINESS.SUPPORT@NORTHAMPTON.AC.UK OR CALL 01604 892328

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund

FASHION

Resolve to update your wardrobe for 2022

E

very Boxing Day onwards into January we get enticed by ‘The sales’ temptiong us both on line and in the high street to buy more and more clothes most of which we rarely or never wear. Often purchased because we ‘forgot’ we had half the clothes we own.

How about a new approach? Only buying what we need for our lifestyle and for the occasions that require us to look more ‘put together’ that show others we mean business!

Lockdown has changed the face of dressing for business considerably.

However, it does not mean we can get away with worn, tired shirts, jackets that look like they have seen better days and trousers, whether they are casual or smart, whose waistband is heading towards your hip line rather than just below your waist due to the excesses of Christmas or lockdown.

Finding quality combined with the correct fit and cut on any garments bought ‘off the peg’ or the internet is virtually impossible.

Lots of Far Eastern countries are making a killing on the unwitting who find it impossible to return garments which might be advertised as your size, but are more likely to fit your ten-year-old son rather than you.

Dean’s experience over 35 years in menswear gives you the confidence to know you are in the expert hands. He understands the requirements of a man’s wardrobe and has a shop where you can spend an sorting all your requirements under one roof. From suits to shirts, jackets to trousers… he can even make you a great fitting pair of jeans.

All the accessories you could possibly need too. Belts, socks, shoes, ties and handkerchiefs - he has it all covered.

This is where it is essential to be measured by an expert, see examples of the finished items and actually spend time planning your next wardrobe purchases with care and attention. Feeling the fabrics, choosing beautiful linings and all the touches that ensure you will stand out from the crowd, whether in the next important business meeting on line or face to face.

Weddings are another important occasion. and many grooms are coming to us as it is becoming impossible to buy a suit anywhere. That also includes the rest of the wedding party who want to look their very best.

Now evening and gala events are coming back on stream, the right type of evening wear is even more tricky to find. Whether it is velvet, tartan or silk, we have a variety of looks and styles to suit every discerning man’s taste and style.

Start 2022 as you mean to go on with thoughtful purchases that add value to your wardrobe rather than just buying clothes because they were in the sale, as those purchases inevitably end up in the charity bag sooner rather than later.

Give Dean a call or you and find out what he can do for you 01604 589907.

NO SALE but we are offering a free made to measure shirt* with every suit or jacket and trouser purchased until January 31 *Not in conjunction with any other offer

Scan to book your appointment

Made-to-Measure | Suits | Weddings | Evening Wear | Smart Casual | Shirts Saint Crispin Retail Village, 22 Kent Road, Northampton NN5 4DR

Visit us online at www.saintcrispin.co.uk or call 01604 589907 For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | January 2022

37

BEAUTY

Make a promise to yourself

New Year resolutions come thick and fast, but we seldom stick to them, do we? Let’s keep things simple; how about making a promise to be kind to ourselves in 2022?

Looking after number one with a beauty regime will make us feel good on the inside and look good on the outside.

Here are a few nice things for the new year...

Little Butterfly Secrets at Starlight Illuminating Night Cream is a pretty little tub bursting with good stuff that works its magic while you are in dreamland. It works to counteract uneven, fatigued or dull looking skin, and its youth-boosting plant extracts and vitamins help to strengthen and repair dry, stressed or damaged skin. Look out fine lines and wrinkles!

Wake up to a morning complexion that is plump and smooth, dewy and radiant.

Get it: solbeauty.co.uk

RRP: £42 We all know about the art of a good brow these days, and Rubis Six-Star Tweezers – available in gold, silver and rose gold – will add a little sparkle to your beauty routine.

Rubis is a ‘go to’ brand for celebrities and make-up artists, and is known as the king of tweezers with good reason.

Originally used in the watch industry for brands including Rolex and Cartier, these will help you achieve immaculate precision for the perfect pluck!

Get it: allcures.com

RRP: £29

Natural oils and ingredients wellknown for their health benefits have been selected for Eresos CBD Isolex Drops. While not intended to treat or prevent diseases, the synthesis of premium quality CBD and MCT oil is designed to calm, soothe and ease your mind, body and soul.

Use Monroe London’s Exfoliator & Pore Minimiser twice weekly after cleansing, and leave for 10-15 minutes while its combo of granular and chemical exfoliators work to smooth, refine and deep-clean pores, and vitamins A, B and E will protect and reduce environmental damage.

Chamomile will take care of sensitivity leaving skin soft and clarified. Can be used for blemish prone skin too.

Get it: solbeauty.co.uk

RRP: £39

Get it: eresos.co.uk

RRP: £55

Turn dreary January into a colour sensation with OPV Beauty’s Bloom Eyeshadow Palette which has been inspired by the beauty of flowers.

This palette includes duo chrome, matte and shimmer and is for those who aren’t scared to strike a pose and go bold.

Striking eye make-up sizzled on the SS2022 runway – here’s your chance to get your own statement look.

Get it: opvbeauty.com

Lush is back with a bang for 2022, or rather back with a bomb...six of them, to be precise!

The brand is offering transformative experiences that invite you to recharge your batteries.

‘The only thing you’ll want to pop a plug in is your tub,’ is the promise.

Choose from Lakes, Diamond Dust, Luxe, Unicorn Poop, 4:20pm and Black Rose.

Get it: All are available at Lush stores in Milton Keynes (thecentre:mk) and Northampton (Grosvenor Centre)

RRP: £5.50-£8.50 38

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

RRP: £29

RELATIONSHIPS

No fault divorce is coming No fault divorce is due to come into effect in England and Wales on 6 April 2022.

From this date couples will be able to get divorced without one person needing to blame the other. This change will also apply to civil partnership dissolution.

T

he Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 will be the biggest reform of divorce law in 50 years and means you’ll no longer have to make allegations about your partner’s conduct to obtain a divorce.

Currently one spouse must allege adultery or unreasonable behaviour to prove the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage or wait at least two years.

Under the new law, irretrievable breakdown will remain the sole basis for divorce but the need to give a reason will be removed. Couples can make a joint application where they both agree the relationship has broken down or, alternatively, one person can apply. There will be a minimum of 20 weeks between issuing a divorce petition and reaching the first stage of the divorce to give the couple a period of reflection and the possibility of reconciliation.

This long-awaited reform to the law will enable couples and their lawyers to focus on positive uncoupling rather than allocating blame, especially when a parting of ways is a mutual decision and there are children involved. Children undoubtedly cope better with a separation when their parents are not in conflict and can see a joined-up approach to their parenting. This continues into adulthood and their life events such as graduations, family events – perhaps even their own weddings.

According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, the average duration of a marriage at the time of divorce is 12.3 years for opposite-sex couples. This is a long time to share your life with someone and often having a good relationship with your ex and with wider family and friends is high priority, but this can be ruined by the legal process or the wrong approach by a lawyer. A good divorce lawyer will listen to what is important to you and work with your spouse and their lawyer, as well as other professionals you may need to support you along the way.

Under the new law, irretrievable breakdown will remain the sole basis for divorce but the need to give a reason will be removed.

Caroline Watson, national head of family law at Shoosmiths

Caroline White-Robinson, head of Shoosmiths’ organisational and personal development team

A good divorce will also require personal reflection and allow you to prioritise your wellbeing. Understanding how you are feeling will encourage you to consider the impact on your ex or children and the emotion involved in decision making.

Our coaching service

There is a lot to think about before you even issue a divorce petition, so we recommend you get advice early.

Our coaching service is delivered by Caroline White-Robinson, head of Shoosmiths’ organisational and personal development team for the last fifteen years. Aside from impeccable professional qualifications and membership of the British Psychological Society, Caroline also has direct personal experience of the aftermath of relationship breakdown and so truly understands what couples may be going through.

There are different tax rules depending on whether you are married, separated, or divorced. Tax advantages may only apply in the current tax year and therefore it is important to take tax advice before 5 April.

Caroline has since re-married and so also understands the stress of blended families and how the range of emotions, whichever side of the fence you sit on, can encompass hurt, guilt, anger, sadness, disappointment, and frustration.

Should you wait for no-fault divorce to start?

What next?

• For an initial, free consultation and to find out about our fixed fee divorce, or to find out more about Shoosmiths’ relationship coaching service, please contact us: 03700 868686 or by email yourfamilymatters@shoosmiths.co.uk • Read our free information about tax on divorce and separation here: www.shoosmiths.co.uk/tax-on-separation • A useful source of support to help parents journey through separation, divorce and beyond is Resolution’s Parenting Through Separation Guide. You can download a copy from their website: www.resolution.org.uk/parenting-through-separation

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

39

FOOD & DRINK

Grilled miso mushroom and grain salad INGREDIENTS

METHOD

2 tbsp Benecol Buttery Taste spread

1. Preheat the grill to high. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp spread with ½ tbsp miso paste, 1 tsp honey and the garlic. Arrange the mushrooms on a foil-lined tray and brush all over with the mixture; season and set aside. Mix the remaining 1 tbsp miso paste, 1 tsp honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar and 1 tsp water to make a dressing; set aside.

11⁄2 tbsp white miso paste 2 tsp clear honey 2 cloves garlic, crushed 4 large portabella mushrooms, cleaned and any thicker stalks trimmed 1 tsp toasted sesame oil 1 tbsp rice vinegar 1 small leek, finely sliced 250g pouch ready-cooked spelt, quinoa, red rice and wild rice 1 tsp sesame seeds 1 carrot, peeled and julienned or coarsely grated

2. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp spread in a saucepan and gently fry the leek with a pinch of salt for 5-6 minutes until soft. Add the grain mix and cook for 1 minute. Tip into a bowl and set aside. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for a few moments till golden, then tip into a bowl and set aside.

3. Meanwhile, grill the mushrooms for 4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Toss the grains with the carrot, radishes and avocado and divide between plates. Top with the mushrooms (spooning over any juices), then spoon over the dressing and scatter with sesame seeds to serve.

100g radishes, finely sliced 1 small avocado, chopped Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Serves: 2

40

COOK’S TIP Any grain would work well in this salad. Try wild rice or quinoa instead of the grain mix if you prefer.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose.

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

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

FOOD & DRINK

On your marks… Pancake parlour reveals its recipe for success It is home to the oldest – and the best – Pancake Race in the world.

So it seems only right that Olney should be home to the best coffee business and café in Milton Keynes.

This year’s race is due to take place, as usual, on Shrove Tuesday (March 1). And Olney Pancake Parlour will be ‘flipping’ ready.

S

Now taking registrations

isters Gillian and Jennifer Donaldson, who manage the Olney Pancake Parlour, are pictured with kitchen manager Faye Hynes as they received the award for the Best Coffee Business/Café at the glittering Milton Keynes Food & Drink Awards 2021 in November which acclaimed the cream of the local food, drink and hospitality sector.

They put their success down to three factors: Great service. Great food.

Great teamwork.

Gillian’s and Jennifer’s dad Barry, who with wife Sandra supports the girls behind the scenes, is delighted that the award is the result of a ‘secret shopper’ judging process. “It verifies the focus that we are giving to the service and the food,” he says. “It is a proper award and really worth shouting about.”

Olney Pancake Parlour lies within a grade II listed building in Market Place. It dates back to 1651 and has been home to a bakery, florist, Chinese restaurant and the café Beans until the Donaldsons took over the building in 2016.

The Olney Pancake Parlour has been a long-standing dream of the family. They have lived in Olney since 1995 and are well aware of the

Fun is an essential ingredient at Hampstead Gate Day Nursery and Preschool where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as our colleagues who provide them.

FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS OPEN 7.30AM TO 6.30PM

Please call 01908 101070 or email hampstead.gate@childbase.com Hampstead Gate Day Nursery and Preschool, 1 Eelbrook Avenue, Bradwell Common, Milton Keynes, MK13 8RD

WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU www.childbasepartnership.com

Sisters Jennifer (left) and Gillian Donaldson receive their MK Food & Drink Award for Best Coffee Business/Café.

Also pictured is kitchen manager Faye Hynes (right).

important link between the town and pancakes. There was a gap, they say, for a pancake destination and a stunning mural of the 1948 Pancake Race is a centrepiece of the café, highlighting its importance to the town.

The family converted the building into separate areas: the parlour itself, furnished with booths, and a snug area popular with grandparents, parents and children alike. “Parents bring their kids in and kids bring their parents in,” says Barry. “Everyone loves a pancake.”

Business was doing well until the pandemic struck. “We’d made a profit and we hoped we had sussed it,” he says. “We were looking onwards and upwards but now we have had to adapt to a changing world.”

When the café reopened in between lockdowns, its opening hours reduced from 8am-5pm to 10am-3pm every day. “We cut our hours, we reduced our menu because we had to in order to focus on the quality and we introduced table service. But that proved to be a winner because it means that we are receiving gratuities from customers, which means our service is what they want. It has changed the business.”

Tastes have changed too during the six years since the Olney Pancake Parlour opened. “Gluten free has become more relevant since we opened and more people are choosing a vegan lifestyle so we have more of those options and dishes on the menu,” says Barry. “It is Veganuary this month and we think our menu will satisfy all requirements.”

As the post-pandemic recovery continues, Barry, his daughters and staff have a clear plan to keep Olney townsfolk and visitors fed and watered.

“These are changing times but we will move with those times, listen to our customers, continue to deliver great food and service and embrace the town,” he says.

• For all Rewiring, Power, Lighting, Plumbing & Heating Requirements • Bathroom Re-fits • PAT Testing • No call-out Charge*

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

41

THE CHOICE FOR MK

SALES, LETTINGS & MORTGAGES

Established over 17 years ago Contact us today for a FREE market appraisal

Sales & Lettings: 01908 304480 www.cauldwellproperty.co.uk

We are proud to support

£50

DONATION For every valuation booked in January

VEGANUARY

Meat-free

doesn’t mean

taste free

I

n 2021, more than half a million people signed up to Veganuary pledging to try a vegan diet.

It’s a movement that has grown hugely in recent years, as people move away from animal products and towards better health by making the change to plant-based food.

And with firms working to meet demand by introducing new products, ditching the meat and dairy has never been easier.

As Veganuary 2022 approaches, Pulse’s resident vegan Sammy Jones checked the numbers and spoke with a couple of the businesses in Milton Keynes helping to ensure that meat-free doesn’t mean bland and boring...

Veganuary launched in the UK in 2014 and is focused on changing consumer behaviours and attitudes, while providing all the information and practical support required to make the transition to veganism as easy and as enjoyable as possible through the month.

More than 580,000 people from 209 countries took part in Veganuary 2021 by signing-up to give plant-based food a try.

Knowing that around 10 times as many people usually take part in Veganuary than officially sign-up through the website, means more than five million people gave vegan eating a go!

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, and television presenter and conservationist Chris Packham are among those supporting the initiative.

Chris said: “Trashing the planet does none of us any good, as the coronavirus pandemic shows all too clearly.

But we can emerge from this stronger and wiser, with a renewed commitment to protecting the environment, its inhabitants and our own futures. Being vegan is a great

40% of Veganuary participants plan to stay vegan 75% of those not staying vegan are reducing meat by 50% or more Reasons for taking part in 2021: 46% Animals, 22% Health, 21% Environment Plant-based dairy grew from £300m in 2017 to £608m in 2021, while plantbased meat alternatives grew from £308m in 2017 to £616m in 2021

Chris Packham and New York City Mayor Eric Adams (inset) are backing Veganuary

way to support the natural world and to live sustainably.”

Last year, thousands of businesses took part in Veganuary, while more than 825 new plant-based products and menus were launched including Pret’s Meatless Meatball Hot Wrap, M&S’ No Salt Beef Pretzel Roll, Subway’s Tastes Like Chicken Sub and Domino’s Chick-Ain’t pizza.

Want to give it a go for 2022? Sign up by visiting veganuary.com/try-vegan

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

43

VEGANUARY

The perfect

Chinese takeaway

(and yes, it’s vegan)

A

mong the coffee shops, fast food outlets and charity stores selling their wares in Bletchley’s main high street is a real star of the vegan movement; Veggie World.

The fully vegan Chinese takeaway offers delicious food three days a week, or you can order from its wholesale business and cook up your own storm at home.

But Veggie World didn’t follow the pound signs of a fast-growing industry; they were the first to make a change.

“Of course there are plenty of vegan takeaways now,” says owner Jeckie Yee, “But we say that we were the first vegan Chinese restaurant in the UK.” Jeckie’s move to being meat-free started when he attended a Chinese house temple. It was a lightbulb moment for the man who, up until that point, thought nothing of tucking into a burger or a piece of fish.

“I went to the society and read a book about Buddha, and from that point I thought I should be a vegetarian. Of course when I went home and told my wife, she was shocked!” he recalled.

Vegan Salt & Peper Shrimp

44

lots of customers who use that option. But we “I turned vegetarian in one day. It just made have a veggie chicken, and a vegan chicken. sense - I don’t want to kill to eat,” Jeckie said.

“The first thing I try to do is help meat eaters And it was mind over matter: “For me it was to become vegetarian, so we need to make a pretty easy because it was of the mind, not the stepping stone for them, otherwise it is very desire – I loved the taste of meat, but my mind hard to promote veganism,” Jeckie said. had switched.”

“People still don’t understand what vegan At the temple, Jeckie soon became beef or vegan chicken is though,” acquainted with meat-free alternatives; he says with a laugh, “Some long before vegan food became Vegan Crispy people still try to avoid it, a staple on supermarket Shredded Beef because they don’t believe shelves, the temple had been that it really exists in a importing vegan food for vegan form!” its users; they were years The plant-based ahead of the curve. movement has When Jeckie was given exploded in recent the opportunity to take times, but of course over the business, he for many people, sitting jumped at the chance; down for that Sunday relishing the opportunity roast, or grabbing a to supply healthy, tasty burger and fries means alternatives to restaurants, meat, and meat only. monasteries, temples and Jeckie says that education individual consumers. He took the is key to helping people to change reins on January 1, 2000, and runs those eating habits: “It’s not the animal the business with his wife, Rachel. that you want to eat,” he says, “For example Jeckie went vegan more than a decade if you want chicken, that’s not the taste you ago and then started converting many of his want, it’s what they put on the chicken itself. businesses’ vegetarian products to vegan. The “If I buy you a chicken breast and boil it and Veggie World takeaway is fully vegan, but the give it to you, you won’t eat it – what you are wholesale business does cater for those of a eating is how the chicken has been made to vegetarian persuasion too. taste – and we can also make you a version “We still sell vegetarian options in our of that. wholesale and retail business – we still have

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

VEGANUARY

Jeckie Yee, owner of Veggie World in Bletchley and (inset) their Sweet & Sour Chicken

“Hot dog doesn’t mean meat, burger is a name – it’s not meat, but we are given these every day and learn about them from birth, so to change mindset isn’t easy, but we will support people to make that change.

“Even though we try our very best to promote veganism, we know that not every case will be a success, but we are not giving up,” he promises, “We have meat eaters who love our food and that makes us so happy.

“At the end of the day I have done my part and I can sleep nicely at night.”

And the number of all-vegan Chinese takeaways is on the rise too, thanks in no small part to Jeckie who helps other business owners on their way to success.

“They come to Veggie World and learn what we do, and then they go to another town and open another takeaway or restaurant. Five or six others have already opened.

The first thing I try to do is help meat eaters to become vegetarian, so we need to make a stepping stone for them, otherwise it is very hard to promote veganism.

They stay with us for a week or two, and learn from us and because they see the business is growing they have the confidence to set up too.”

Nowadays, Jeckie and his wife concentrate on the wholesale side of the operation, which offers an online ordering service for consumers, but the restaurant is still family-run.

From duck in yellow bean sauce to sweet and sour mutton and prawn in Szechuan sauce with chilli, Veggie World caters for every taste, and as with any menu, there are a couple of firm favourites with consumers: “Chicken balls and sweet & sour ribs,” Jeckie says.

On my travels a few days after speaking with Jeckie, I visited Potts Coffee & Kitchen (pottscoffee.co.uk) in Liverpool for breakfast.

“We don’t have anything like this in Milton Keynes,” I told one of the staff members, “But we do have a vegan Chinese takeaway...” at which point another employee replied: “The one in Bletchley? Their chilli beef is the best!”

Tickle your tastebuds: veggie-world.com

Mother Nature gives Gosh! their goodness Gosh! Food is a familiar name on supermarket shelves for its tempting range, which includes burgers, bites and sausages. The business runs its operation from here in Milton Keynes, with a staff force of around two dozen office personnel and a production team of 100.

In 2020 Gosh! acquired its second Kingston site to meet the growing demand of plantbased food.

It currently offers more than 20 products and also supplies direct to cafes and restaurants through its foodservice business.

“At Gosh! We only use 100% natural ingredients in our tasty, plant-based food,” said a spokesperson, “No nasties, fakes or additives. All we do is use the best ingredients from Mother Nature and create a flavour sensation that’s ready for you to eat.”

The company also operates an allergen free site, and is passionate about feeding into projects in the locality. In Milton Keynes it

actively supports the Community Fridge: “This is really important to us, as a food business that wants to help make healthy eating accessible, being able to donate surplus stock to our local community is fantastic,” they added.

Visit goshfood.com

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

45

VEGANUARY

‘I feel it is the right lifestyle for me’

V

eganism has grown in popularity over the past decade and people are choosing the vegan lifestyle for a range of reasons.

“Mine being health,” says Sophie, a member of the Daily Bread Co-operative in Northampton. She opted to become vegan six years ago.

“I had been a vegetarian near enough all my life but I decided overnight that I would become vegan from the next day. Initially it was for my health but I learned that the benefits also include reducing my carbon footprint and helping to save animals so I feel it is the right lifestyle for me.”

More than 125,000 in the UK signed up to the Veganuary campaign last year and such is the growth in demand for vegan food that it is now impossible for retail outlets and food delivery services to ignore.

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Alternatives to meat are more expensive but plantbased wholefoods such as beans, nuts and grains The Daily Bread Co-operative aims to offer a are both affordable range of products for Vegans and (inset) Sophie and nourishing.

A wide variety of vegan Year award at this year’s Weetabix food is now available.

Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards.

“We are spoilt for choice and it is never “I have worked for this bustling been a more appropriate time to tackle wholefood shop for over four years,” says your taste buds with new, exciting foods,” says Sophie. “We source our suppliers and Daily Bread member John Clarke. stock carefully and sell plenty of items that The Christian wholefood are usually hard to find elsewhere. co-operative, founded in 1980, “I would encourage readers and friends is committed to providing not and family to sign up to Veganuary in only a wide range of choice for 2022,” Sophie added, “Even if you just vegans but also for particular added more plant-based wholefood dietary requirements sources into your diet, you are doing including gluten free. The yourself, the animals and the planet shop is in Bedford Road, close some good.” to Northampton town centre and customers can order www.dailybread.co.uk online too.

Facebook: Daily Bread sponsored the facebook.com DailyBreadNorthampton Vegetarian/Vegan Product of the

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

VEGANUARY

Great for the planet and purse

W

e’ve written about the benefits of vegan eating, but there are other ways to help the planet too – and another fast growing market is the trend for refill shops.

We should all be recycling; it’s easier than ever to do it, but the sheer volume that fills our bins and bags every week is still scary.

Refill shops, where you bring your own containers, are the way forward. There is zero waste and zero packaging going off to landfill.

Olney now has its own refill store, The Green Way 2 Shop. The family-run business opened in August, but while the shop may be new, their passion is nothing new.

“My Dad Danny also has a Solar Panel business, The Greenway Solar, so I grew up being very aware of renewable energy and why it is necessary,” said Caitlyn Hirst, who is joined by her dad, mum Helen and sister Emily in the venture.

Caitlyn came up with the idea for the store nearly a year ago, while studying at Oakgrove Sixth Form.

“Plastic pollution is a very key issue that our planet faces and I wanted to help combat that in some way. Having a zero waste shop means people can buy foods and liquids with no plastic whilst also buying the quantities they need which reduces food waste. It’s my

belief that the shop will not only allow me to do tenth, nearly all of our customers always my bit, but will help other people to do theirs grab some chocolate!” Caitlyn said. as well.”

“We have refillable liquids, and our Neroli And inviting people to switch from Laundry Liquid and Ginger Washing throwaway plastic to Tupperware Up Liquid is very popular. We and reusables has been easy. also have unique hazelnut “People come in wanting spread and peanut to make a change, and butter machines they love the idea of which customers bringing their own are fascinated by. containers and pots, They are a healthier so it hasn’t been alternative to branded hard at all,” Caitlyn nut butters.” told Pulse.

The store also Aside from being carries stocks of environmentally sound, gluten free products, a trip to The Green Way coffee, jams, preserves 2 Shop is also a way to and much more, and it It’s easy to stock up at The Green Way 2 Shop save money too, isn’t it? has proven a big success.

“Absolutely!” Caitlyn “The response has promises, “What shocks people been phenomenal,” Caitlyn most is the prices of our herbs and spices. acknowledges, “Olney has been incredibly On average a pot comes in at between 10 and supportive and residents are eager to 20 pence, whereas in a shop you sometimes make their individual changes. It’s already pay at least £1.50.” an eco conscious town, so we knew it was Perhaps unsurprisingly, chocolate is a big a perfect place for our shop. Its reputation winner here too. is now spreading to wider villages outside “Our most popular items are the chocolate of Olney, which is amazing!” covered nuts, fruits and honeycomb. Whether it’s someone’s first time in the shop or their Visit thegreenway2shop.co.uk

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

49

HOME & GARDEN

DIGGING DEEP Gardening with Pulse Thoughts will soon turn to freshening up the home after a December of festivities, and the garden needs your attention too – putting in the work now helps set you up for a blooming good year ahead, and besides, the crisp fresh air will do wonders for the senses!

T

he new year is a time for fresh starts, and preparing for the months to come, and that means ensuring you have the tools to hand. Are yours rusty and worn? Go treat yourselves to replacements.

If you have tired netting, or fences that have fallen during the harsh winds that have battered the outdoors in recent months, now is the perfect time to repair or replace. Check to see if your climbers are still safe and sturdy, and boost their support as necessary, and also confirm compost levels and identify the seeds you want to sow – preparation is key.

Remember to keep feeding the birds visiting your garden over the winter

Top Tip...

Letting the eyes enjoy a heavily flowering English garden during summertime is a joy for the soul, but to ensure that petal power is plenty when the sun shines, you need to get to work now.

January is the ideal time to plant seeds for sweet peas, begonias, petunias, geraniums and dahlias. A cosy windowsill with a balanced temperature is a good spot to use. Reach for the seed trays and use new compost. Checking them often will prevent any problems from taking hold.

If you want a different sort of heat, now is also a time to plant chilli seeds – they will be ready for harvesting from July.

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We mentioned last month that if snow should arrive, you need to deal with the aftermath; that means clearing heavy bursts from greenhouses, and from conifers and hedges. Excessive amounts of the white stuff can damage and snap branches. If we are lucky, we’ll escape a snowstorm and this advice won’t need to be heeded!

Perhaps you have grand plans for your outdoor spaces in 2022 – a redesign, adding a water feature, or establishing a new flower or vegetable patch. Start thinking about how you want it to work, and what you need to achieve the results.

If you have wisteria, rose bushes, or overgrown honeysuckle, now is the time to prune them, and pay attention to the constant problem of weeds. It pays to keep on top of chores.

A reinvigorated attitude means new energy in the garden and if you surrender the time now, you will reap the rewards all year long.

Do continue your support of our wildlife.

Leave some areas of your outdoor space uncut until warmer weather comes in, and supply food for our feathered friends who currently have twice the woes to contend with – less readily available food, and a real chill factor.

How does your garden grow?

Bletchley Garden Club has been hosting Seed Swaps since 2009.

“By saving and swapping seeds, gardeners help to keep alive the genetic diversity of flowers, herbs and vegetables. They also enjoy the adventure of growing something new or unusual,” explains Jan Taylor, chair of the Bletchley Garden Club (BGC).

“Seed Swaps can also offer varieties that do well in the local environment.

“Commercial seed companies must pay a fee to register each seed variety that they sell.

Understandably, they choose to sell the seeds that will be most profitable. It is illegal to sell seeds that are not registered on the European or National Seed Lists.

“It is also illegal for Seed Swaps to sell seeds as they are not registered, so instead we ask for small donations for packets of seeds.

Organised Seed Swaps began in Canada in the 1980s, but gardeners have been swapping seeds informally for centuries.

The first seed swap organised in England was in Brighton, in 2001, and, known as Seedy Sunday it has grown and flourished - rather like the seeds themselves, one hopes!” Jan added.

The 13th Bletchley Seed Swap takes place on Saturday February 12th 2022, between 10am and 2pm at Freeman Methodist Church Hall, Buckingham Rd, Bletchley MK3 5HH. Entry is £1.

How it Works Take along your home-gathered seeds and any unwanted commercial seeds.

If you’ve no seeds to swap, the club suggests a donation of 50p for each packet taken home.

There will also be a Gardeners’ Bric-a-Brac stall, plant stall and book stall. Refreshments will be served.

For more details visit bletchleygardenclub.org

January 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 | January 2022

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

HOME & GARDEN

Local company wins national Best Fabricator of The Year award

Local family run business Emplas have been named Best Fabricator at this year’s prestigious G21 Glazing Awards.

H

eld at the Hilton Park Lane, London the Glazing Awards are a celebration of achievement and innovation in the window and door industry.

In a very challenging year for the industry, Emplas claimed the highly contested Best Fabricator Award, fighting off stiff competition from many of the industry’s top manufacturers, to bring the title home to Northamptonshire for the second time in six-years.

Collecting the award, Managing Director, Ryan Johnson, paid tribute to the team, its customers and supply partners. He said: “The last two years haven’t always been easy. We’ve faced some big challenges, but we’ve adapted, overcome problems and been agile in our approach, changing the way we have run our businesses, so that ultimately, we are stronger and better placed for the future.

“This award is testimony to the hard work of the whole Emplas and T&K teams. We are incredibly lucky in that we employ some the industry’s most knowledgeable, passionate and committed people.”

Although not immune from the severe disruption and demand that continues to hit the window, door and conservatory industry, Emplas has continued to invest in its offering. This year they launched a brand new aluminium range, which it’s retail business, T&K Home Improvements is already installing in local homes in Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes.

To win this award, Emplas had to be one step ahead of the competition. They significantly invested their IT systems, bringing new transparency to their offering, with real-time visibility of capacity, new lead generation tools and customer CRM. “We didn’t really stop. We’ve just kept going through what have been some very big challenges”, continued Ryan.

“We are delighted to have picked up an award, but seeing so many colleagues from the industry, catching up in person, and letting our hair down with was great to do after all this time” “We’re not out of the woods yet, there are more challenges ahead as an industry, however, we’ve demonstrated that we’re incredibly resilient. Customers are having to be a lot more patient now, as the supply chain has been badly affected this year and it looks set to continue” However, with almost 43 years of experience, and another award to their name, Emplas and T&K are well placed to weather the storm. >> T&K Home Improvements and Emplas have been providing quality Windows, Doors, Conservatories and Extensions since 1979 in the Northamptonshire and surrounding areas, to find out more visit www.tkhi.co.uk

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Email: jim@urbanrootsmk.com www.urbanrootsmk.co.uk For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | January 2022

53

MK MAYOR

Joining Father Christmas for the festive lights switch-on

The crocus planting volunteers at MKUH

Moments with The Mayor Our regular catch-up with Mayor of Milton Keynes, Cllr Mohammed Khan

A

t the Mayor Making ceremony back in May, I was honoured to be able to represent our fine town. As the months have passed and I have been privileged to meet so many more members of our community, and gain an understanding of the fabulous initiatives and charity ventures running locally, my pride at our brilliant town has only increased.

It’s impossible to mention every event I have been lucky enough to have attended since my last column for this magazine, but I’d like to share just a few of the highlights.

On a fresh October morning I joined with members of the Rotary Club of Milton Keynes (RCMK) in my role as an honorary member to plant crocuses outside the MK University Hospital Cancer Centre in an initiative to mark World Polio Day. In 2020 the RCMK planted 2000 of the flowers. This year, with the assistance of local scout and cub groups they are set to double that number.

It was wonderful to play a part in the project, and to know that by spring, these bulbs will have blossomed.

Crocuses aren’t the only thing I have planted recently – Community Trees Milton Keynes donated 500 trees to The Parks Trust who then arranged a week of planting at Middleton Wood Meadow.

The great green event – part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative – was supported by schools across Milton Keynes, and I attended with Lady Howe Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, and the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire to ensure some of the young trees got rooted in.

Back in June, DREAMSAI Milton Keynes and the Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living (MKCIL) were announced as recipients of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. They were among 241 charities and voluntary groups nationwide recognised for their outstanding work – the former for helping the homeless and those in temporary accommodation, and the latter for their support of people with disabilities.

Spare a thought for those who will spend the festive season working hard for us; the emergency services keeping us safe, and those working in care homes, in the community and in retail.

In October I attended the presentations to both organisations, and I would like to take the opportunity to once again say ‘congratulations’ to everyone involved for their inspirational work.

While on the subject of awards, we recently welcomed not one, not two, but six recipients of British Empire Medals to the Civic Offices for their official ceremonies, with the awards themselves presented by Lady Howe.

On November 11, there was a poignant service at the MK Rose to mark Armistice Day, and it was wonderful to see such a magnificent turnout, with army and navy cadets joining with the general public and dignitaries to remember all those who have given their lives in the service of our nation.

On Remembrance Sunday, I attended a number of parades; two in Bletchley, one in Stony Stratford and another in New Bradwell.

After last year’s very small commemorations because of the pandemic it was fantastic to see so many people in attendance once more.

At the Milton Keynes Centre for Integrated Living QAVS presentation

The weather might be miserable of late, but those who know me will know I am an avid fan of our MK Dons, and no matter how chilly the weather turns, I intend to continue taking a spot in the stands as often as possible to cheer on the team at Stadium MK. A few weeks ago I was invited to turn on the My Milton Keynes Christmas lights which bathed the town in festive illuminations, but even more marvellous was a chance to meet Father Christmas!

Christmas is a time for togetherness, for families and friends to enjoy some quality time and for indulging in good things.

But please spare a thought for those who will spend the festive season working hard for us; the emergency services keeping us safe, and those working in care homes, in the community and in retail. We all owe them our thanks.

And please remember those who won’t be spending the festive season in their own homes, those who are homeless, or without friends and family. A little bit of kindness can make such a big difference – and it’s just as good to give as it is to receive.

Pop a mince pie across the road to that elderly neighbour, put some loose change in a collection bucket or donate a tin or two to a food bank or an animal charity.

If we all do a little something, we can make a big difference this Christmas and beyond.

Finally, I’d like to wish Pulse’s readers a Merry Christmas, and a very Happy New Year.

Tree Planting at Middleton Wood Meadow

mohammed.khan@milton-keynes.gov.uk 54

Mohammed Khan, Mayor of Milton Keynes 01908 253601 mayorMK @mayor_mk

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

MK Council

Pete Marland UK’s largest eco village Milton Keynes is one of the fastest growing cities in the UK and has quickly become a hotbed for quality developments. More and more houses are being built, and Milton Keynes Council is keen to ensure that developers are doing all they can to ensure future estates are as sustainable as possible.

We have recently announced our ambition to build the UK’s largest eco village right here in MK. Eco villages are communities that are built with the intention of being more environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable. There are thousands of eco villages across the world, mainly in rural areas, and there could soon be one to the east of Newport Pagnell.

The Council is looking for a developer to build an eco village at Tickford Fields Farm, consisting of 930 new homes, a primary school, open spaces, sports pitches, play areas, and a wellbeing centre.

We are asking potential developers to focus on building the properties to strict carbon neutral or carbon negative standards, to align with the Council’s work to tackle the climate emergency and make Milton Keynes the greenest city in the world.

Another priority for us is to address the current housing crisis, so up to half of the homes could be classed as ‘genuinely affordable’ – meaning the house price aligns with average salaries, rather than the market value.

Building new communities Another development that is moving forward is South East MK. We want to create thousands of new homes and community spaces on a 200-hectare site near to Tilbrook, Browns Wood, Wavendon, Woburn Sands, Green Sands Ridge, and Bow Brickhill.

In November we approved a planning document that acts as guidance to any

Leader of Milton Keynes Council

potential developers, letting them know how we would like the land to be developed to best benefit the community.

It outlines how we favour a sustainable, environmentally friendly development that could consist of around 3,000 new homes, schools, community facilities and other infrastructure.

The Council is committed to delivering highquality infrastructure, housing, and community spaces – and we will work with the community as this scheme moves forward.

Carbon zero Council Just like developers and other businesses, it is important that the Council works to be as green as possible to tackle the climate emergency. In 2019, we launched our Sustainability Action Plan and have since reduced our carbon footprint by around a third. MK Council has been working on carbon reduction schemes such as low energy streetlighting, creating electricity from the city’s waste, and making council properties more energy efficient.

We are looking at even more projects such as electric buses, entirely carbon neutral homes, and solar farms to reduce our carbon footprint

even further – meaning the Council is on track to become carbon zero by 2030.

Helping children in need Tackling child poverty is one of our key priorities, so I am pleased that the Council has been able to support some of our youngest, most vulnerable residents during the school holidays by providing free school meal vouchers and activities.

We have been providing supermarket vouchers for children in receipt of benefitrelated free school meals during the school holidays since December 2020.

And in the week leading up to Christmas, we provided over 9,000 individual play sessions for children, including cookery, climbing, football, and even ninja club. All these sessions included a healthy and nutritious meal. We will continue to help families in need, and provide valuable and practical support throughout 2022.

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

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

55

MPS OUT & ABOUT

Iain Stewart

I

MP for Milton Keynes South

hope you have had a lovely Christmas and I want to take this opportunity to wish you a happy New Year. The month of December was a busy but productive month, meeting with many constituents, organisations and businesses. In this monthly piece, I would like to share with you some of the things that I have been doing.

Blue Light Hub – I visited the Blue Light Hub, in Ashland, to have a tour of the now completed facility that is home to teams from the Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, South Central Ambulance Service and Thames Valley Police. This new facility enables the emergency

Iain with Niftylift's Chairman and Founder Roger Bowden

Iain visits the Blue Light Hub, in Ashland, to have a tour of the now completed facility that is home to teams from the Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, South Central Ambulance Service and Thames Valley Police.

services to work together efficiently and collectively in response to an emergency, anywhere in Milton Keynes. Whilst having a look around the Blue Light Hub, I met with the different emergency service teams who are stationed at the Blue Light Hub. The common message from the team members I met was that they have found the collaborative approach to responding to emergencies to be extremely positive. It is very encouraging that other areas of the country are looking to emulate the Milton Keynes initiative.

REEP Site – Also, I visited the Milton Keynes REEP Site which is home to work coaches that are helping 18-24 year olds and 50+ year olds get into work with local employers through the Kickstart Scheme. The Kickstart Scheme provides employers with funding to create new jobs for 16 to 24 year olds on Universal Credit. I welcomed the opportunity to hear from the work coaches on the work that they have been

doing to help people utilise the vacancies in Milton Keynes. It was great to hear of the positive take up from young people and the success it has brought them to get long term work opportunities.

Niftylift – Niftylift invited me to their facility to meet with the Founder and Chairman, Roger Bowden, and his team.

It was fascinating to have a tour of the site where Niftylift manufacture mobile work platforms, also known as cherry pickers. Whilst walking around the facility, I heard of the 500 high-skilled jobs that are employed on site and met some of them. I was delighted to hear that Niftylift manufacture their goods in Milton Keynes and export them all over the world, including the USA and Europe.

Plus, Niftylift offer opportunities for local school children to come to the site to learn more about STEM and how to get a career in this industry, as well as providing apprenticeships through MK College.

Caroline Haslett Primary School – With it being UK Parliament Week, I was invited to Caroline Haslett Primary School’s assembly to participate in a Question and Answer session. After speaking to the school assembly about the role of a Member of Parliament and about how to become an MP through the election process, I received a range of great questions from different year groups, including what I am doing to tackle climate change and how many hours do I work each day. At the end of the assembly, I was introduced to the Caroline Haslett School Council.

Finally, I would like to congratulate Maya from Bishop Parker Catholic School for being the winner of my Christmas Card Competition. Her beautifully decorated tree surrounded by presents and people has featured on the front of the Christmas cards that I have sent to my family and friends. Thank you to the nearly 400 entrants who participated this year, Milton Keynes has some budding young artists.

As we start 2022, my team and I will be on hand to help you with any issues that you may have so please do get in touch if you require any assistance.

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 686830 | Email: iain.stewart.mp@parliament.uk | www.iainstewart.org.uk CONSTITUENCY OFFICE: Suite 102, Milton Keynes Business Centre, Foxhunter Drive, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK14 6GD 56

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

y a d o t P U sIGN UWCB.UK/PULSE GET FIT IN 2022 8 WEEKS FREE TRAINING RAISE MONEY FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | January 2022

57

MUSIC

‘The only limit to what I can do is me...’

I n the lead up to Christmas, while the rest of us were messing about with tinsel, MK musician Cam Owden was stateside, touring with rising indie success Alfie Templeman.

Carlton-based Alfie has had a phenomenal rise to fame, and when he needed a bassist he remembered the fret-feeler he’d seen in local band Khasia – and made the connection.

“I tried to keep my distance from him, because it seemed like there were so many people trying to ride off his wave, but he got in touch and I thought I’d give it a go.

Now he is one of my best friends and we are getting to see the world together.”

Cam joined Alfie’s band in September of 2019, in a pre-covid world.

Soon after, the diary was emptied and the band forced to put their instruments down and put their feet up as the shutters were pulled on the live music industry.

Thankfully, 2021 proved to be kinder.

“Some of our first gigs were at Boardmasters, Reading and Leeds, and we released a record too. Seeing my name in the credits still hasn’t stopped being cool to me. It has been a dream of mine to hold a physical release I’ve worked on in my hands, so that record means an awful lot to me.

“More than anything though, the highlight is being able to hang out with my mates again.

We all live apart and Alfie was shielding, so that first day back together was really special.”

Pic: @tatianawphotos

Pic: John Owden

Cam playing live with Alfie Templeman

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The trip across the pond was a welcome chance to put their music before a new audience and enjoy work and play.

“The US has definitely been a learning experience,” Cam said, “Playing some of my bucket list venues like The Bowery Ballroom and The Roxy have been incredibly special, given that just last month I was still working a job at Starbucks.”

And he returned home with a memory bank brimming with great stuff.

“A highlight was driving down the West Coast; the scenery was beautiful, the soda cold and the music loud,” he reminisced, “Just road-tripping with my best mates and playing shows was blissful.”

The new year is looking busy too.

“Very busy actually,” he promises, “New music, a lot of shows and hopefully a bit of time to be young. I think it’s

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

important that we take the time to experience life while working hard.”

Then there’s the solo venture.

KC Blackwater has so far delivered the EP Happy Smiling Faces.

“It’s the least doubt I’ve had over anything I’ve ever done,” he said, “It’s just natural and doesn’t feel at all forced... the only limit to what I can do is me.”

If his work with Alfie is indie and melodic, this solo rush makes for altogether heavier listening, and the single Fungi is more than a little bit good. It’s fresh and exciting, fraught and urgent.

It gives Cam a platform to have his say: “People can say anything and somehow their opinions carry the same weight as facts,” he observes, “I wanted to write a track about confronting someone on all the egregious things they’ve said, and make them feel as small and uncomfortable as they’ve made other people feel.”

MUSIC

Purple’s crime spree with MK filmmakers I n late 2021 Deep Purple released their latest studio album, Turning To Crime.

The hard rockin’ machine formed more than half a century ago, but this current opus is another first for the Ian Gillan fronted quintet; it’s a release of cover versions.

Artists given the Purple treatment include Little Feat, Cream, Ray Charles and Arthur Lee’s Love.

And when the band decided to release a video to back their delivery of Fleetwood Mac’s Oh Well, they looked to Milton KeynesDeep Purple’s current album, Turning to based Chiba Film to come up with Crime (above) and Dan Gibling directing Deep Purple (right) the goods.

“The music film for Oh Well was a gargantuan effort which saw us shooting with the band in Germany,” director Dan Gibling Chiba were also engaged for Deep Purple’s told Pulse, “The theme of the album got me cover of Rockin’ Pneumonia and the Boogie thinking about all the best crime films I’ve ever Woogie Flu, originally by Huey ‘Piano’ Smith, seen, and we pulled influence from Tarantino which took the turn of an animation. through to Edgar Wright, also throwing in some “Luke, my partner at Chiba Film, came likenesses of musicians the band has covered up with the concept of ‘the life of a boogie on the album, together with some of our woogie piano’ and we wrote the story out favourite music videos of all time,” Dan said, together as the rise to stardom and then the explaining the concept for the work, which fall from grace of the piano, finally left out in shows the band getting up to criminality. the gutter after succumbing to the rock n’ roll “The film has been well received and is lifestyle, before being resurrected by Deep the first time the band has appeared in Purple and returned to its former glory. a video for years, looking dapper as elite “We worked closely with the band’s criminal gangsters!” manager to pack the illustrations full of

secret messages and hidden features for Deep Purple fans, and Luke slaved over 79 hand drawn illustrations that skilled animator Simon Jeffery then made come to life.”

Dan and Luke also worked on a 40-minute documentary with Deep Purple which features on the DVD. “We both used to play in rock bands and it was an honour to work for such a legendary rock band of this level,” Dan added. > Turning To Crime by Deep Purple is out now through earMUSIC.

Sean kicks off new Villa playlist

S

ean Grant has achieved a goal of marrying his passion for music with his passion for football, with the news that Aston Villa FC & Shoot Promotions have chosen to feature his band as a part of the first ever Aston Villa introducing playlist.

“Football was my first love – so much so that my first word was ‘ball,’ he told his social media followers.

As a youngster, he spent much of his time kicking a ball about, and even got scouted for Villa youth team, but in his teenage years a passion for music took over.

Sean’s grandad was from Birmingham and he too had a love of football and music: “He was a record collector and introduced me to music as an art form,” Sean said.

“He and my grandma bought me my first

guitar at 12 which was probably the catalyst in me becoming a musician.

“I moved from Villa to Northampton as a player as my Dad was coaching there, then Kettering. By the time I reached adult football I stopped playing as I was touring and pursuing music full time having been signed to Fierce Panda records.”

But Sean’s fondness for the game, and Aston Villa in particular, never faded. In recent times he has started back playing grassroots football with MK-based OB City.

Sean’s Bodies of Christ single is set for a vinyl release next month, followed by an eight-date UK tour.

But for the moment he’s pretty happy with his playlist feature.

“I’m hoping Steven Gerrard has a little boogie to it!” he said.

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

59

WHATS ON

#WhatsOnPulse Parks & Run: Loughton Valley Park Sunday, January 2 Join The Parks Trust for a 3, 5, or 9km run, beginning at 10am. Meet at Bradwell Abbey Car Park, Alston Drive. Participants will sign in upon arrival.

Jog on: theparkstrust.com Kevin Clifton – Burn The Floor Wednesday, January 5 Join the Strictly star turned stage ace as he delivers the intensity of the Tango, sweeps you away with the romance of the Waltz and brings the sensual side with the Rhumba. Not a feel-good show, but rather a feel-fantastic one coming to Northampton’s Derngate.

Fancy footwork: royalandderngate.co.uk Poizon and Motley Crude Friday, January 7 Revisit the hazy days of hair metal and The Sunset Strip with this lively tribute to Motley Crue and Poison. If you’ve still got your Christmas tinsel, it’ll be welcome at MK11 for this date!

Wildside: mkl11kilnfarm.com Bletchley Vegan Market Saturday, January 8 A huge variety of vegan street food, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewelers, zero-waste champions and environmental charities come together for this Vegan Market Co. event which will run in Queensway between 10.30am and 4pm.

Very, very tasty: Click to FB and search Bletchley Vegan Market

Kevin Clifton is set to Burn The Floor at Northampton’s Derngate

Denton & District Gardening Club Monday, January 10, 2022 Speaker Michael Brown will talk about ‘Poison in the garden.’

The meeting is being held at Denton Village Hall (NN7 1DT). Entry is free for members, £3 otherwise. There will be a raffle and home-made refreshments. Visitors are welcome at this small, friendly club.

Grow new interests: Call 01604 890875 or email m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk

Too tasty to miss - Bletchley Vegan Market in Queensway

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Walk & Talk: Understanding Campbell Park Tuesday, January 11 An opportunity to explore MK’s central park and learn more about how The Parks Trust manages this grade II listed landscape.

The event will focus on the park’s design features and different habitats, and the walk and talk runs between 1pm and 3pm.

Jog on: theparkstrust.com

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

Collateral Friday, January 14 The Brit-rock sextet comes to The Craufurd Arms ahead of a European tour alongside Skid Row. Fists in the air: thecraufurdarms.com The Snow Queen Friday, January 14 Ballet Theatre UK re-tell Hans Christian Anderson’s classic fairy tale ballet at The Deco.

Tip-toe to get tickets: thedeco.co.uk Charity Karaoke Night Saturday, January 15 Towcester Mill Brewery hosts its first Karaoke Night in aid of the Mayor’s Charity, the Renew 169 Wellbeing Cafe. Attend with your pals or rock up alone – you’ll be made welcome at the fun event in support of a great cause.

In tune or not: towcestermillbrewery.co.uk Big Loss Saturday, January 15 Northampton’s Big Loss hold their Three Knots EP launch at The Black Prince.

Listen in: Click to FB and blackprincenn Talk: Encouraging Biodiversity in your Garden Tuesday, January 18 It’s important that we all do our bit for wildlife, and creating a haven in your back garden need not be difficult. This online event is being run by The Parks Trust who will share tips to encourage animals, insect-friendly gardening advice and explain how you can create microhabitats for our creatures. A Q&A will also feature. Tickets for the zoom event are £3.

Go wild: theparkstrust.com

Learn how to ‘get a buzz’ in your garden with The Parks Trust online talk on January 18

A Country Night in Nashville Saturday, January 22 Enjoy the energy and atmosphere of a buzzing Honky Tonk in downtown Nashville from your seat at Milton Keynes Theatre, with songs including Ring of Fire, Crazy, Follow Your Arrow, 9-5 and The Gambler.

Dominic Halpin & The Hurricanes will be taking care of the music.

Nashville nice stuff: ATGTICKETS.COM/miltonkeynes Burns Night Supper Sunday, January 23 Enjoy words, music, poetry and toasts at The Marquee Suite, Cock Hotel, Stony Stratford, from 7pm. Pre-booking is essential.

‘Sláinte Mhath!’ stonywords.org.uk Live Comedy Thursday, January 27 Join sell-out veterans of Edinburgh Fringe The Noise Next Door as they bring the funnies to Towcester Mill Brewery. Mark Nelson will open the event with his mix of dark humour, cutting observations and clever one-liners.

Your event compere is resident MC Pete Teckman. With material that will definitely be of an adult nature it’s over 18s only for this show.

Reasons to smile: towcestermillbrewery.co.uk Stony Words: Kate Kennedy Friday, January 28 Join Kate as she presents ‘Dweller in the Shadows - A Life of Ivor Gurney’ at St Mary and St Giles Parish Hall in Stony Stratford, at 7pm.

Out of the shadows: stonywords.org.uk

January Highlights Tubular Bells Live Saturday, January 22 Internationally renowned Tubular Bells maestro Phil Toms and his band will be performing tracks from the 1973 hit record Tubular Bells by Mike Oldfield as well as excerpts from the band’s instrumental albums including Ommadawn, Tubular Bells 2 and 3.

Chris Ingham Quartet Sunday, January 23 A joyful salute to the wry, wise and beautiful music of legendary songwriter, singer and pianist Hoagy Carmichael (Stardust, Georgia On My Mind, Skylark, Ole Buttermilk Sky, Lazy Bones et al) with anecdotes, insight and delightful curiosities from a uniquely rich and varied songbook.

Ben Hart: Wonder Sunday, January 23 Expect Ben’s most mindblowing and exciting magic in a show that shines a light on magic, life, the universe and the darkest corners of your imaginations. With the simplest of props, using the objects and minds of the audience, Ben Hart conjures an altogether new kind of magic.

Mark Watson Friday, January 28 Spiritual enquiry meets high-octane observational comedy as the ‘Taskmaster’ survivor, multi-award-winner and “No More Jockeys” cult leader attempts to cram a couple of years of pathological overthinking into an evening of stand-up. Maybe we’ll even solve the huge problem. Doubt it, though. (16+) Cregan & Co Sunday, January 30 When the Faces broke up in 1975, Rod Stewart started his own band. One of the most influential guitarists in this line-up was Jim Cregan. Now, more than 40 years on, Jim, together with four outstanding musicians, performs that well-loved heritage music under the name ‘Cregan & Co’.

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 | January 2022

61

WHATS ON

Enjoy international and national theatre and dance performances from the best seat in the house at MK Gallery’s Sky Room independent cinema.

Mr Simpson Little Consort will bring some noise to Stony Stratford Library

Letz Zep Friday, January 28 Head to the Roadmender and get your rock on with a tribute to the masters, Led Zeppelin. How good are they? A few words from Robert Plant tell you all you need to know; “I walked in, I saw me.”

High praise indeed.

Whole Lotta Love: theroadmender.com

Stony Words: Mr Simpson’s Little Consort Saturday, January 29 Especially for youngsters, the musicians present a Pirates Children’s Concert at St Mary and St Giles Parish Hall in Stony Stratford, from 11am.

Sounds great: stonywords.org.uk

Future Sounds of Drum & Bass Friday, January 28 A heap of local talents will be showing out at Unit Nine in Old Wolverton. Those on the bill include B-Don, Hazey & Milnebass, Jem, Vessel and Balaclava. It’s a big line-up with hours to suit; running from 9.30pm to 4am Check in: unitninemk.com

Stony Words: Nicola Wilson Saturday, January 29 Nicola presents ‘Miss Nobody – the Writing Journey of Ethel Carnie Holdsworth, an ex-mill girl’, at St Mary and St Giles Parish Hall in Stony Stratford, at 1pm.

Wordy business: stonywords.org.uk

The Big Garden Bird Watch Saturday, January 29 Improve your bird ID skills while taking part in a citizen science project at Howe Park Wood.

A professional guide from the RSPB will explain more about our feathered friends at the 50 minute session, from midday. Entry is free, but donations to the RPSB to help their work protecting nature are invited.

Fly in: theparkstrust.com

Ronan Keating Saturday, January 29 Four-times Platinum selling singer and songwriter Ronan Keating visits Northampton Derngate as part of his tour in support of the current Twenty Twenty album.

Jump on the rollercoaster: royalandderngate.co.uk

Ronan Keating plays Northampton Derngate this month

Event Cinema ROH Live: Tosca Wednesday 19 January | 7pm Into the romantic world of an idealistic painter Cavaradossi and his sensuous lover Tosca comes the malevolence of Baron Scarpis, Chief of Police, with fatal results.

Jonathan Kent’s taut and intense production with Paul Brown’s historically charged designs wonderfully evokes the dangerous atmosphere of Rome in 1800, where love and evil come – thrillingly – face to face.

Bolshoi Ballet: Jewels Sunday 23 January | 3pm Emeralds for the elegance and sophistication of Paris, rubies for the speed and modernity of New York, and diamonds for an imperial St. Petersburg. Three sparkling scenes accompanied by the music of three essential composers, feature the styles of the three dance schools that have contributed to making George Balanchine a legend of modern ballet.

NT Live: Leopoldstadt Saturday 29 January | 7pm At the beginning of the 20th century, Leopoldstadt was the old, crowded Jewish quarter of Vienna, Austria. But Hermann Merz, a factory owner and baptised Jew now married to Catholic Gretl, has moved up in the world. Regarded as ‘Britain’s greatest living playwright’ (Times), Tom Stoppard’s critically acclaimed new play Leopoldstadt is a passionate drama of love, family and endurance.

Exhibitions Laura Knight: A Panoramic View Until Sunday 20 February 2022 Major retrospective celebrating one of the most popular English artists of the twentieth century.

Free entry for Milton Keynes residents every Tuesday.

Free guided tours every Tuesday & Saturday at 2pm with exhibition ticket.

Sanctuary: The Unlikely Home of British Rave Until Sunday 23 January 2022 Exhibition curated by journalist, writer and former Dazed editor, Emma Hope Allwood telling the story of the infamous all-night club that operated in Central Milton Keynes from 1991-2004.

For full cinema listings at MK Gallery, and to book tickets, please visit www.mkgallery.org or call on 01908 676 900.

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

THEATRE

Pic: Pamela Raith

Enjoy a kooky, spooky night out

Pic: Matt Crockett

This January the cast of The Addams Family are set to haunt MK Theatre (above left) and magician Ben Hart will stun the audience at The Stables (above)

If Joanne fancies staying local after the curtain comes down on the show, she won’t have long to wait until her bro’ turns up – Kevin stars in Burn The Floor, which dances into town the following Monday (Jan 17).

Kevin is no stranger to our theatre himself, and did a swell job in Rock of Ages in the autumn.

The Addams clan are to host a Back at The Stables, Britain’s meal for Wednesday’s ‘normal’ Got Talent 2019 finalist Ben partner and his family which Hart (Jan 23) will wow you promises to be anything but with his jaw-dropping magic standard...not least with that promises to shine a Uncle Fester, Lurch and light on life, the universe and Pugsley among those taking the darkest corners of your their seats at the dinner table. imagination. Expect your mind Cameron Blakely reprises his to be well and truly blown. role as Gomez, and he will be Dreamgirls arrives for a twoKevin Clifton joined in gothic matrimony by former week booking at MK Theatre (Jan Strictly Come Dancing pro (who lifted 25-Feb 5), as part of its first ever UK tour. the glitterball in 2016 with Ore Oduba), turned It’s the 1960s, and Effie, Lorrell and Deena star of stage, Joanne Clifton. are talented young singers working during She has previously hit the MK stage in a revolutionary time in American music Flashdance, Thoroughly Modern Millie and the history. Watch as they navigate the world of Rocky Horror Show, but this musical comedy fame, fortune and the ruthless realities of is a chance to reveal her dark side. show business.

In the 2006 motion picture, the role of Deena Jones was played by someone called Beyoncé. Local lady Natalie Kassanga has been cast for the tour. Read our interview with Natalie on pages 12 and 13.

Last up for January, Mark Watson says ‘This Can’t Be It’ in his new show at The Stables on January 28. Spiritual enquiry meets high-octane observational comedy as Mark attempts to cram a couple of years of pathological overthinking into an evening of stand-up. It’ll be a busy night!

The month of January can feel particularly sombre; grey days, long dark nights and the post-Christmas lull do little to raise spirits. And just WHEN will payday arrive?! Break the drear with a little theatrical cheer. Sammy Jones has the round-up.

J

anuary at MK Theatre will begin as December ended – with continuing performances of the panto spectacular, Jack and the Beanstalk (running until Jan 8).

Extract the last bits of festive fun by taking a ticket for a performance with Ashley Banjo & Diversity who will display the moves that turned them into household names. And a reminder of the relaxed performance taking place on Wednesday, January 5, too.

Attendees will get the usual magic, but it will be free of lighting effects, loud noises and large crowds, which can be overwhelming for those with learning or sensory disabilities.

Panto is for everyone, and the theatre will ensure that all feel safe and secure.

At Wavendon venue The Stables, performances of the updated version of Hans Christian Anderson’s popular story The Princess and The Pea carry on (until Jan 2).

Now, they’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky, they’re all together ooky, The Addams Family - the musical comedy returns to Milton Keynes Theatre (11-15 Jan).

After all the tinsel and glow of Christmas, you’ll be ready for this gothic set show by the time it lands in town.

Wednesday Adams is all grown up, and this princess of darkness has a shocking secret, shared only with her father, Gomez; she is in love with a sweet young man from (shock, horror) a respectable family.

Can Gomez keep her secret? Or will his lips become loose and spill the beans to his wife, Morticia?

Mark Watson brings stand-up to The Stables

> Book in: The Stables: stables.org MK Theatre: atgtickets.com/ venues/milton-keynes-theatre

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

63

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VIEW FROM THE FAR KERB

HARD!

SUDOKU PUZZLE SUDOKU PUZZLE Fillininthe the grid every every column and every Fill grid so so thatthat every row,row, every column and every 3x3 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no repeats. box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no repeats. Good luck! Good

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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9

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16

13

17

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ACROSS

1. Captured 5. Legal rules 7. Address crowd 8. Nucleus 9. Actor, ... Connery 10. Articles 11. Lyrical 13. At any time 14. Knot in hair 18. Recalibrates 21. Agricultural holding

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22. Cooking oil source 24. Coastal sand strip 25. Narrate 26. Ring (of bells) 27. Fencing blades 28. Stomped (on) 29. Brings to bear

DOWN

1. Aircraft flight deck 2. Country, ... Britain

PHIL O’HARA

T

he New Year has created mixed views. A new beginning. More of the same pain. Different pain. Ultimate victory. All with seemingly random numbers.

Everyone will be welcoming the New Year 2222, meaning c a l e n d a r m a ke r s a n d practitioners of numerology will do bumper business.

It will be really cool to write '2222' every time the date is required. I assume people will still be able to write two hundred years from now? Maybe dates won't be required when booking a flying taxi.

No, I mean, when booking a transport beam transfer between continents.

Double no. I meant to write, when booking a transport beam transfer between planets in our star system.

Triple no! Obviously I should have written, when booking a transport beam transfer between Earth and the planet Zog… I freely accept that when it comes to making predictions regarding how society and technology will turn out two centuries from now, I am probably not up there with the likes of Nostradamus. However, I like to think my poetry is better than his efforts. Some of his quatrains didn't even rhyme. I obviously try harder.

But just think of the joy attached to writing '2222' every time you record the date. Instead of using a pen or keyboard (onscreen or physical), we will probably talk into whatever is asking. People will talk to doors, walls, plastic boxes, tables, chairs and all manner of things. Unfortunately they

will tend towards not talking to fellow human beings at all.

How will it be uttered? Two, two, two, two? Or twenty-two, twenty-two? Try, Two thousand, two hundred and twenty-two.

Whatever reason you might have had for needing to input the date may well have ceased to exist by the time you have managed to say it.

Without doubt it will save on resources. If the Earth and human society still exists, then it will be because people listened and the planet's resources have been carefully husbanded. The year 2222 is just the same number reused four times.

Think of the savings to be made through recycling digits instead of having to generate fresh numbers.

Numerologists will assign some momentousness to the number.

They will probably produce scientific proof that it is a sign of the end of the world. The year 2012 wasn't as nice looking on paper as 2222, yet many people wrote books maintaining that the end of civilisation was to take place during 2012. As you are reading these words, I'm going to suppose that it never happened.

Mind you, can you imagine the drive and excitement that will be generated by a sequence of twos?

I doubt anyone will be writing cheques by 2222, so no adding 20,000 years by accidentally writing five twos.

Thinking about it, I have this sneaking suspicion that calendars won't be that common by the time 2222 comes round.

Does anyone under the age of forty own or use a printed calendar these days?

Making Music

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©Lovatts Puzzles

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Twenty Two Twenty Two...

3. Point of discussion 4. Food supplier 5. Diminishes 6. Feeblest 12. Sick 15. Non - professional 16. Wagered 17. Absconder 19. Ram’s mate 20. Resolves 22. Period 23. Crisp fruit

SOLUTIONS SUDOKU ANDSUDOKU QUICK CROSSWORD BE FOUNDARE ON PAGE 66 34 SOLUTIONS TO TO LAST MONTH’S AND QUICK CAN CROSSWORD ON PAGE

Practical tips for aspiring musicians by Olney’s Dan Evans

Managing nerves...

Many musicians suffer from nervous anxiety and, whilst a little excitement can be helpful, too many nerves can mar a performance. Expectation can be one of the main causes of nerves.

By all means strive for excellence but don’t expect your performance to be perfect, as that is obviously unachievable. Also, audiences are generally not unduly worried about mistakes and may not even notice them, so just laugh them off and generally be kind to yourself.

It helps to know your material well and work within your ability. The late, great guitarist Isaac Guillory taught me: ‘no‑one’s going to know that you’ve got limitations until you’ve exceeded them’. So play material which is for you simple. This will help to take the pressure off and you’ll probably relax a little and so play well.

Remind yourself what you love about the music you are playing and focus on that. Live for the moment and try not to look back or think ahead. Immerse yourself in the feeling, the emotion, the meaning of the music. Remember, you are performing to entertain, not to impress, so make a gift of your music and it will be well received.

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

65

Your stars NEWS

HOWARD PARKER

THE ASTRO-GUIDE

Flavour of the Times - Before we feel we can look forwards to the new year, we tend to look backwards to assess things that have occurred in the old year, so there is a ‘down-to-earth’ start before we can imagine what we would like 2022 to look like.

Things will take a time to unfold, so it is worth considering the Celtic Festival on Imbolc.

Occurring at the end of the month, it is the moment when nature starts to think about growth and new shoots.

As the Aquarius new moon starts on 31st, it makes sense for us to follow nature. The sun stays in Capricorn, behind, until 20th, so the association of Aquarius with the new and original, doesn’t get going until the end of the month.

CAPRICORN December 23 – January 20

TAURUS April 21 – May 21

VIRGO August 24 – September 23

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 19

GEMINI May 22 – June 21

LIBRA September 24 – October 23

PISCES February 20 – March 20

CANCER June 22 – July 23

Everyone says they need to find their soulmate but have you thought through what that actually means? You might like to consider that this special person is someone who makes you feel very uncomfortable because you are learning lessons from them that are actually in your best interest, but it may not feel like it at the time.

Your soul may know more than your brain does!

Beware of looking as if you are selfish and not caring enough for others this month. Don’t isolate yourself from people who care about you, even though you may have important goals and interests that do require your attention right now. The accent will change to humanitarian concerns at the end of the month, so be aware of the need to change direction then.

If you made resolutions regarding your love life, you may feel that little has changed – until the end of the month, that is. Then, Venus changes directions and throws some very interesting wild cards into the mix. These will cause you to really think hard about where you are going, particularly in your love and desires. Look at where you really screwed up in past relationships and why.

You might be prepared to say almost anything to anybody, however heart felt, but not everyone is comfortable with this level of openness and you may feel frustrated at the lack of connectedness you encounter with people who matter to you.

Don’t just close off in self-defence though: try walking in the other person’s shoes and see it from their perspective.

This month could bring some real benefits to your closer relationships. Some change in a more romantic direction, due to the influence of Venus and Pluto. Whether this works for you will depend on your level of self-awareness and whether you have been doing the work on yourself and your deeper motivations. Other relationships will also benefit from this Venusian effect.

People often find that new relationships trigger bad memories of other failed relationships and these ghosts from the past may be trying to make a come-back this month. Don’t be tempted to revisit these. The past is the past but at the same time, make sure the lessons you have so painfully learnt help you to move on and bring you closer to what you know you need in your life.

ARIES March 21 – April 20

LEO July 24 – August 23

We know you are ambitious to get on in life, but do you look the part these days? Most people have been dressing down at work but you might consider doing the opposite at this time and create the kind of impression that really gets you noticed. More generally, it’s about looking after yourself and being aware of the possibility of burn out because of your high impact lifestyle.

The Leo personality likes to shine but at the same time, they can sink lower into victimhood than most other signs. It’s because they love the drama so they make more fuss in order to get noticed. Consider that not everyone wants the hear chapter and verse about what’s going on in your life right now. Just get on with what needs to be done, Leo. There’s work to be done this month!

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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.

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It’s a time to exercise some fiscal prudence this month because Venus’s backward motion could seriously put the brakes on your expansionist tendencies. But how dull is that?

You are just itching to spend, particularly on yourself, but I would suggest you try putting some money away for a rainy day, if you can.

You won’t of course, but I did tell you, didn’t I?

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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SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 22

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You could be biting off more than you can chew this month if someone new appears in your love life. It’s going to be deep, which you like, but how dark it turns out to be will depend on how much you like swimming out of your depth. Take it easy and put a toe in the water before you dive is the sensible advice, but then, when was ‘sensible’ ever drop dead sexy?

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SCORPIO October 24 – November 22

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Home is where the heart is, in front of a nice warm winter fire in the depths of winter.

Hibernating is fine this month and allows you to gather your resources for the future. It will make you feel so much better when the days get longer and new growth stirs in the cold soil, ready for another year to start showing its head in a couple of months’ time.

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Past love skeletons may have been coming out of the closet around this time so now is the time to really rid yourself of those and ask yourself what boundaries you really want to set for future relationships. If you are in a relationship, consider what is bugging you and how you can start to make the changes you need to make.

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We are always looking for local stories, news and events. If you want to get involved, please email your news and views to: nn@ pulsemagazine.co.uk

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GET INVOLVED!

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

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