MK Pulse magazine July 23

Celebrating one whole year of wow.

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W

e recently said ‘goodbye’ to local dancer and choreographer, Helen Parlor, who left us all too soon. As the driving force behind Milton Keynesbased MÓTUS Dance she’ll be missed by many local people as well as her family and friends.

This July and August you can make the most of sunshine and summer holidays. Browse through our ‘Hello Summer’ feature to find venues, charity events, museums, music, theatre and outdoor activities to entertain you.

However, we must look forward. Plans for a new Women and Children’s Hospital for Milton Keynes could soon become a reality. The project has received a share of £20billion funding from the government’s New Hospital Programme. It could increase surgical capacity at MKUH and help meet future acute care needs.There’s the annual Harry’s Rainbow Colour Run and Fun Day and, of course, the Willen Hospice Midnight Moo. There’s fun for all the family at Milton Keynes Museum and plenty to do at Lamport Hall. You can also entertain the small people at Milton Keynes Theatre. If you enjoy the outdoors there’s something for everyone at Love Nature Day in Howe Park Wood.

The colourful Milton Keynes International Festival offers 10 days of exceptional events and performances. There’s a chance to win a family ticket for up to four people to see Place des Agnes, one of the highlights of this year’s Festival.

Did you know we’re also celebrating five decades of MK Museum’s amazing insights into our local history this year? Thanks go to all the amazing volunteers. Sammy Jones has been discovering the stories of some of the longest-serving stalwarts. You might even like to join the team.

Whatever you choose to do while you enjoy warm summer days, have a great time. Please remember to keep your animals safe from the heat too.

Editor FINISHED READING? PASS PULSE MAGAZINE TO A FRIEND OR PLACE IT IN THE RECYCLING.

Kerry 20

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 The edition Pulse is MONDAY 10TH JULY

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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Dancing…a foundation for self-belief and confidence to succeed

The Parlor and Spivey families are extremely saddened by the premature death of the Helen Parlor just days after witnessing her latest dance festival ‘Femmes Fortes’ in Middleton Hall.

Helen was born in Newport Pagnell in 1975 and began her dancing career at the age of six before studying at Swindon Dance and gaining BA Distinction at Northern Contemporary Dance. Helen and her husband Steven Spivey have lived in Ravenstone near Olney. She was an amazing wife, a fun-loving Mum, sister and a wonderful daughter.

Helen performed, choreographed and directed in the UK, Norway, Germany, Tanzania and India. She performed with the Dance Connect and Motionhouse dance

companies before she moved to Oslo in Norway for two years with Pantarei Danse Teater.

Before a performance at Milton Keynes Theatre for the Motionhouse dance company, Helen suffered a brain haemorrhage. After 14 hours of surgery and subsequent

radiation treatment, she returned nine months later to produce Headcase, a touring production for male dancers.

Helen was assistant choreographer at London Paralympics 2012 opening ceremony and subsequently formed her touring dance company Parlor Dance which in its Close Distance show produced groundbreaking performances that mixed word and dance.

From 2013 Helen became the driving force of the Milton Keynesbased MÓTUS Dance organisation.

Helen firmly believed that dancing is fundamentally important to life. She said it nurtures empathy, understanding consequences and better working together to achieve things you may have thought impossible It provides a foundation for

self-belief, understanding and confidence to succeed in life.

She produced performances for site-specific events such as at Goodrich Castle near Ross on Wye where 120 local dancers joined 12 professionals. Locally, many will have seen her work in Campbell Park and ‘HER STORY’ for the opening of extensions at Milton Keynes Museum.

Through the MÓTUS Dance charity, she provided a decade of dance festivals in Milton Keynes, including professional dance commissions, the Adjustments spring festival for emergent performances, workshops, masterclasses with visiting dance companies and performances from international dance companies.

In the year before her death, Helen and MÓTUS secured substantial funding to continue to develop Milton Keynes as a centre of excellence in dance performance. She will truly be missed.

Details and videos of her work can be found at www. helenparlor.co.uk and at www.motusdance.co.uk

Her father Bill Parlor pays tribute to his daughter Helen, dancer, choreographer, artistic director and the driving force behind MÓTUS Dance in Milton Keynes.

Helen Parlor: Died May 30 2023

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Stephen Moon it became clear that these values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money. The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window

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

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

All C2C employees operate a strict social distancing policy.

The scheme will also increase surgical capacity by 2030 and will enable MKUH to progress its expansion plans to deliver additional capacity and technology enhancements to meet future acute care needs of the rapidly growing local population. The population of Milton Keynes is forecast to double by 2050.

MKUH chief executive Joe Harrison said: “This enhancement to our estate is a fundamental element of our future growth strategy, allowing the Trust to increase capacity and improve the hospital care environment across the entire estate.”

The decision has been welcomed by Milton Keynes’ two MPs. Ben Everitt and Iain Stewart have campaigned for the new hospital for years.

The growth requirements of MKUH have seen the delivery of several improvement projects over recent years, including a new

MKUH to receive funding from New Hospital Programme

Plans for a new Women and Children’s Hospital at Milton Keynes University Hospital are set to become reality by the end of the decade after the project won a share of £20 billion government funding as part of the government’s New Hospital Programme.

The hospital site is currently mid-way through developing its cancer care service with a new state-of-the-art Radiotherapy Centre, due to open in the summer of next year.

Mr Stewart, MP for Milton Keynes South, said: “It is brilliant news that we have been successful in securing this investment.”

main entrance, Academic Centre and Cancer Centre. The Maple Centre development opened

Stay in the loop

in October to deliver Same Day Emergency Care for patients and an acute assessment ward.

Mr Everitt, who represents Milton Keynes North, added: “So much work has been put into this behind the scenes, to make sure we got the go ahead and to formally secure the funding, so this is much welcomed news indeed!”

An artist’s impression of the proposed Women and Children’s Hospital at Milton Keynes University Hospital

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

Many of us have thought about repainting our kitchen cupboards as a way of refreshing them without replacing, especially since we have had more time at home. But concerns over the finish achievable and how well the paint would last usually puts us off making a mess of things.

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

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

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

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

FX-SPRAY MK also treats doors, windows and furniture. For more information or a free quote, email jason@fxfinishing.co.uk or visit www.fxfinishing.co.uk

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

Sham Trusts

Challenging the Legitimacy of Trusts in Divorce Proceedings: The Quest for Transparency

In the words of Justice Munby (as he then was) in Re W (Ex Parte Orders), “The court will not allow itself to be bamboozled by husbands who put their property in the names of close relations in circumstances where…it is apparent that the recipient is a bare trustee and where the answer to the real question – whose property is it? - is that it remains the husband’s property.” 1

On occasion, parties in financial proceedings may try to surreptitiously hide matrimonial assets by use of a deed of trust. The goal is to create an illusion, disguising the actual ownership of property which could be deemed to be matrimonial assets, if successful, the matrimonial pot could be greatly diminished. Such arrangements are commonly entered into between a settlor spouse and his/her: family members; friends; or business partners.

The three certainties

A recognised basis for setting aside a trust is to question the trusts validity, a court can find a trust to be invalid due to a technical error in its constitution. In order for a private express trust to be legitimately created, the three certainties must be present:

1. certainty as to the intention of the settlor to create a trust, known as the certainty of words, the trust property being intended to be kept separate from other property of the trustee.

2. certainty as to the property to which the trust is to attach, known as the certainty of subject matter

3. certainty as to persons or ‘objects’ who are intended to benefit, known as the certainty of objects.

the beneficial interest in a property is split 20:80 when the parties’ actual intention is that the beneficial interest is split 50:50.

It is worth noting that, just because the respective interests of the parties documented in the deed may amount to a poor bargain or be on uncommercial terms does not automatically mean that the trust deed will be a sham. The key factor is that the parties intend that some other arrangement will bind them.

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.

In such circumstances, the deed of trust entered between the spouse and the co-conspirator will express that the parties’ beneficial interest in the property is different to their actual intention. For example, a spouse may enter a deed of trust with a third party declaring that their interest in a property is split 20:80, when in reality, the interest is 50:50. If such a deed was not questioned and/or was found to be legitimate, it could mean (in the case of property or shares) that hundreds of thousands of pounds are excluded from the matrimonial pot. For this reason, a party to divorce proceedings may wish to bring the validity of a trust into question.

The Family Courts do have wide ranging powers in financial proceedings, however Munby J confirmed in A v A that the Family Court cannot “simply ride roughshod over established principle, least of all where there are, or ought to be, third party interests involved” 2. Therefore, a potential applicant must take care when seeking to persuade a court that the trust in question is not legitimate.

It is for the court to determine whether all three certainties exist, if all the certainties are not present, the court can determine that the trust is not valid and is therefore void.

Sham Trust

Another method of bringing the trust into question, is for the Applicant to ask the court to determine whether or not the trust is a sham. When an Applicant alleges that a trust is a sham, they are seeking to convince the court that when the trust was created, the first certainty was not present, and the parties lacked the certainty of words required to legitimately create the trust.

The meaning of sham can be found in the case of Snook v London and West Riding [1967], sham means “acts done or documents executed by the parties to the “sham” which are intended by them to give to third parties or to the court the appearance of creating between the parties legal rights and obligations different from the actual legal rights and obligations (if any) which the parties intend to create” 3

It follows that for a trust deed to be a sham, both parties to the deed must intend that the true arrangement is different from that set out in the document. Referring to our example earlier, the trust deed may set out that

In deciding whether a trust is a sham, the court is not limited to examining the ‘four corners of a document’ and may examine external evidence including the parties’ explanations and circumstantial evidence. Common warning signs of a sham include: the agreement being arranged in secret; unusual haste being used when creating the deed; the parties omitting to obtain professional advice regarding the trust; and the settlor continuing to exercise total control over the trust assets.

In any event, the Applicant spouse must take care when alleging sham, the accusation of sham is extremely serious being an allegation of dishonesty. The burden of proof falls upon the party trying to prove the sham and the test of intention is subjective. The Applicant must prove that the parties to the trust intended to create different rights to those set out in the deed.

If a trust is found to be a sham, it will usually be void – in Family Court financial proceedings the assets will return to the settlor spouse, and this could greatly increase the matrimonial pot. Case law has confirmed that courts will be slow to find dishonesty and applications can be time consuming and expensive. Nevertheless, considering the value of assets that may be subject to a trust – such applications can be worthwhile.

1. Re W (Ex Parte Orders) [2000] 2 FLR 927 at 938 (Munby J)

2. A v A [2007] 2 FLR 467 [19] (Munby J)

3. Snook v London and West Riding [1967] 1 All ER 518 at 529 (Diplock LJ)

Keshini

SUMMER

leave

sofa

SUMMER OF EVENTS

THE CHESTER HOUSE ESTATE

JUNE 24TH & 25TH ROMAN FEST THE ROMANS ARE BACK FOR A WEEKEND LONG CELEBRATION OF THE HERITAGE

JUNE 28TH A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM OUTDOOR THEATRE

JULY 8TH 21ST CENTURY ABBA LIVE OPEN-AIR CONCERT

JULY 21ST 21ST CENTURY QUEEN LIVE OPEN-AIR CONCERT

JULY 22ND SPIDER TRAINING LEARN HOW TO BE JUST LIKE SPIDERMAN

JULY 24TH, 25TH,26TH.

AUGUST 9TH, 10TH, 11TH, 29TH, 30TH, 31ST & SEPTEMBER 1ST

JULY 29TH & 30TH KIDS SUMMER FESTIVAL

AUGUST 13TH WIZARD OF OZ OUTDOOR THEATRE

FOREST SCHOOL HANDS ON LEARNING IN NATURE. EXPLORING THE BEAUTY OF THE NENE VALLEY.

ADVENTURE INTO NEVERLAND

AUGUST 1ST AUGUST 2ND, 5TH & 8TH GREATEST SHOWMAN WORKSHOP LEARN THE SKILLS OF P.T BARNUM FROM THE SMASH HIT FILM

AUGUST 3RD THE SECRET GARDEN OUTDOOR THEATRE

AUGUST 4TH AIR AMBULANCE OPEN DAY VIEW A REAL AIR AMBULANCE WITH ACTIVITIES FOR ALL THE FAMILY

AUGUST 15TH & 22ND ZUMBA FOR KIDS ENERGETIC DANCING FOR KIDS TO THEIR FAVOURITE TUNES

AUGUST 17TH IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST OUTDOOR THEATRE

AUGUST 18TH SCIENCE WORKSHOP UNIQUE LEARNING FOR KIDS TO GET INVOLVED IN SCIENCE

AUGUST 26TH SENSE AND SENSIBILITY OUTDOOR THEATRE

PRE-BOOK TICKETS ONLINE VISIT: WWW.CHESTERHOUSEESTATE.ORG

Scan the QR code for 10% off in the Farmhouse Café on your next visit

SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS

It’s time to

the

and get outside this summer, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the locality, as our 12-page summer guide proves...

SUMMER

The sun is shining, school is nearly out and our thoughts turn to fun things.

To make organising easy for you, Pulse has assembled a wealth of things to do this July and August, with many free and affordable options available across Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire.

Whether you want to get involved in lively activities, take the kids to a familyfriendly rave or absorb the culture in a museum or gallery, we’ve got you covered in the pages of Hello Summer.

Kelmarsh Hall & Gardens in Northampton will be jazzing things up in the musical sense on July 6, when the Ducie Jazz Band performs.

Visitors will be able to take a leisurely stroll in the gardens, enjoying the summer borders and striking colours of the walled garden, before making their way to the west terrace lawns for the live music.

Remember your picnic, blankets and chairs, and relax. The event will run from 5.30pm to 9.00pm; For tickets visit kelmarsh.com/whatson

CONTENTS:

Chester House in Little Irchester has a summer of the sensational planned, with a varied programme sure to sate the entertainment appetites of the majority. On July 8, 21st Century ABBA Live will deliver smash hit after another; from Waterloo and Mamma Mia to Super Trouper, but there are other outside events to indulge in too - 21st Century Queen (July 21) will offer a royally ace set, and Spider Training (July 22) will weave a web of wonder around little folks.

Suitable for ages 4+ Spiderman and Spidergirl will offer an hour-long workshop teaching little folks the moves of a real superhero. There are five sessions running across the day.

A Kids Summer Festival (July 29 & 30) will boast inflatables, interactive live stage shows, tractor rides around the estate, a circus workshop, crafts, sandcastle building and a chance to discover the Archaeological Resource Centre.

Youngsters can Adventure into Neverland! (August 1) with games, music and dancing, enjoy The Greatest Showman Workshop (August 2, 5 & 8), enjoy a performance of The Secret Garden (August 3) by Chapterhouse Theatre Company, and if you are in the vicinity, do support the Air Ambulance Open Day (August 4).

There are lots more shows and events (including Zumba for Kids!) upcoming. Visit the website for more details at chesterhouseestate.org

Denton Village Hall will be bustling on Sunday, August 7 when it hosts a Summer Fete for the community.

Enjoy a chippy lunch, play outdoor games and enjoy the bouncy castles which will be set up for the day, and lots of stalls will tempt you.

The event is in support of the charity Deafconnect and will run between 10am and 2pm.

CHARITY Hello

How do you fancy teaming up with your kids for some fun, while simultaneously doing your bit for Harry’s Rainbow?

The Milton Keynes based charity, which supports children, young people and young adults who have been bereaved of a parent or sibling, is hosting its annual Colour Run and Fun Day to swell coffers on Saturday, July 8.

Taking place at the large Recreation Ground on Woburn Avenue in Wolverton, children and adults can choose to run, walk, hop, skip or jump their way through the course – with the choice of a half mile or mile long route.

If you don’t fancy the colour aspect, a noncolour option will be in play too, so don’t worry.

Course aside, the event will boast games, rides, stalls and refreshments – fun for all the family.

Entry is £6 and everyone who completes the course will go home with a medal.

This year is the 13th time that the popular event has been held, and with numbers of participants increasing every year, advance bookings are strongly advised.

> To book tickets visit harrysrainbow.co.uk/events

MK’s biggest night time event is back on July 14, when the Willen Hospice Midnight Moo returns.

Every year the Milton Keynes hospice needs to raise £5.9 million to provide specialist, compassionate care to local people and the Moo is the charity’s biggest fundraiser.

‘Light up the night and walk our five or 10-mile route across Milton Keynes, with fun surprises along the way,” the charity invites.

Enter on your own, with pals or as part of a team – it’ll be moo-vellous fun whatever you decide!

Participants will arrive at Midsummer Place in CMK no later than 9.30pm ready to step to it at 10pm.

Taking part costs £20 which includes a Midnight Moo t-shirt, a ‘Moo pack’ with route map and in-memory bib, and of course when you step over the finish line you’ll get a finisher’s medal.

> To sign up visit willen-hospice.org.uk

You can join the Colour Run on Saturday, July 8

Dress up and have some fun with friends or colleagues at Willen Hospice Midnight Moo

Harry’s Rainbow pics: Tea Cup Pictures

IF:2023 Hello

Tbiennial IF: Milton Keynes International Festival returns this July, with 10 days of colourful, unusual and exceptional events and performances. Free events include The Place Between, which will explore the connection we have to our Earth, to each other, and our contribution to the cycle of life.

Artist Rebecca Louise Law creates immersive installations with natural materials, with preserved flowers frequently featured in her work. This installation – which can be viewed in Middleton Hall in centre:mk – also has soundscapes by Jason Singh

Mechanical sandwriter Blom will draw on the streets, transforming bland pavements with picture outlines – from a flowery carpet to a flock of little hearts.

Small buckets filled with coloured sand will be placed close by, ready for you to add your own touch to the art work.

Get involved: July 21 – City Square, July 22 –Midsummer Place, July 23 – outside Door 18, centre:mk.

The fairground will reveal itself at Festival Central in Campbell Park (July 21-July 23)

courtesy of Belgian theatre company De Machienerie present Carnivale, an interactive ‘fairground village’ with installations, curiosities, mechanical animals all fashioned from recycled materials – and you will operate it!

Disabled-led company Daryl & Co and Mimbre will present performances of Look Mum, No Hands! at the Milton Keynes Rose (July 29 12.30pm & 4pm and July 30 at 11am & 3pm).

The coming-of-age story about two friends testing their own boundaries is visually stunning with acrobatic shapes and unexpected choreography guaranteed to keep you gripped.

Arts, laughs and music

Belgian company Captain Bloomer will take you to a world of pastoral bliss when they take up residence at Fred Roche Gardens (July 21 & 22, 11am- 7pm), and July 23 at 10.30am – 5.30pm).

Pasture With Cows features real bovines and references the new city’s famous concrete moo-vers. The beautiful beasts will graze within an outsized gilt picture frame, inspired by Old Master paintings of livestock. The Stables Spiegeltent in campbell park will be bustling with good things over the course of the Festival, with plenty of the action tailored towards little folks; Comedy Club 4 Kids (July 29 at 2pm) will deliver some of the

best stand-ups and sketch acts from the circuit who will play for an audience age six and up and their families. The only thing missing will be the rude bits, but the humour will be firmly intact!

Organisers say ‘the show is family friendly, but without any patronising idiocy.’

On July 30, the Spiegeltent will welcome the family rave sensation Big Fish Little Fish who are tasking DJ Raks with the job of delivering an old skool drum and bass and jungle set before the assembled.

Suitable for ages two and above, youngsters who need to break from the dancing can get involved in the free craft activity and homemade play dough table while they store up some more energy. If they are in the zone though, they can throw some shapes on the family-only multi-sensory dance floor which will be bursting with bubbles, balloons, snow foam and smoke rings. Fun for all and a sizzling soundtrack to boot.

Other IF goodies to get involved with include the Barely Methodical Troupe with Bromance, a five-star circus about camaraderie and affection (July 21-23), Ireland’s improvising musical comedian Abandoman (July 21) and the world-premiere of Forever?

which is a partnership between The Stables and Olney’s Cowper & Newton Museum. The new work responds to the 250th anniversary of the famous hymn, Amazing Grace (July 22).

An Evening Without Kate Bush will be performed by Sarah-Louise Young (July 23) and Paul Young returns with Los Pacaminos (July 24) delivering the sounds of the Southwest.

More music comes from Karine Polwart & Dave Milligan (July 26), Turin Brakes (July 27) and Toyah Willcox & Robert Fripp (July 28) and the end of the festival party will be in safe hands (July 30) with the Monster Ceilidh Band taking care of business.

> Ten days, but with enough produce to fill a month! For the complete Festival listings visit ifmiltonkeynes.org

Pasture With Cows

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave

Look Mum No Hands

Pic: Rachel Hardwick, 2022

IF:2023 Hello

21-30 July

Win a Family Ticket for P

lace des Anges will be one of the highlight performances of this year’s Festival - a beautiful, astonishing and breathtaking spectacle to enchant audiences of all ages.

As night falls across the city, angels begin to appear, high up in the sky. They move through the air, magically suspended above the crowd below. The angels start to glide down into the audience, releasing white feathers which float across the sky. Each angel has their own unique character and style and as their aerial antics become more boisterous, the clouds of feathers thicken, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

This is only the third time that Place des Anges has been performed in the UK - the two previous performances took place at London’s Cultural Olympiad in 2012 and for Hull’s UK Capital of Culture programme in 2016.

Performances take place in Secklow Gate D3 Car Park (near The Point) in central Milton Keynes on Friday 28 & Saturday 29 July, starting at 9.45pm.

Gratte Ciel’s Place Des Anges

To win a family ticket (up to 4 people, one of whom must be a responsible adult), answer the following question >>

In what year did the performance of Place des Anges take place at the Cultural Olympiad in London?

Afternoon Tea Al fresco

Indulge in our summer afternoon tea menu with delicious sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries on our al fresco dining area. Enjoy a complimentary glass of Rose Prosecco in June, July and August.

Served daily from 12pm to 5pm

Traditional Vintage £32.95

To book call 01536 416666

Closing date: Friday July, 21

Pic: J. Broadley

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SCAN FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN A PARTY!

With school out, finding ways to keep the little ‘uns entertained for six whole weeks can feel a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, Milton Keynes Museum is on hand to make things easy for you, and fun for them!

On July 15, the Museum will mark its 50 year anniversary with a special celebration party, and then between July 24 and September 1 the Wolverton based history hub will be offering additional activities to take attention.

All the usual attractions will be open as usual of course; start your visit with a look inside the Victorian farmhouse, play on music machines from the era, make hot buttered toast in the parlour, see what the role of a servant entailed and look back on more than a century of toys.

MUSEUMS Hello History Boys and girls

Then stroll through the Street of Shops with its many original facades from stores that once served residents of Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell and Wolverton.

While there, pop into the Old Ridgemont Post Office for a quarter of your favourite sweets, and then learn more about how our ancestors used to farm the land.

The Museum has more than 150 phones and communication systems, from the earliest examples to novelty phones and those early ‘brick’ mobiles, so get ready to dial away!

The old Wolverton to Stony Stratford tram is one of the many vehicles waiting for you to explore in the Hall of transport, where you’ll also find a historic fire engine, a Sinclair C5, and many other interesting examples.

Outside, the Museum’s five acres of grounds means plenty of space for kids to use up excess energy – and there’s a play area, plenty of picnic spaces and you’ll meet some famous residents; the original Concrete Cows moo-ved in a few years ago.

The Museum also has a shop and tasty snacks are available at the Granary Tea Room.

Pay once and your ticket is valid for unlimited returns for 12 months!

> For more event details and prices visit miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Pay a visit to Art Gallery 1 at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery between now and September 1 to view the exhibition, The BFG in Pictures

Since The BFG was first published more than four decades ago it has remained in print, with the tale of orphan Sophie and her giant friend enchanting children and selling more than 50 million copies!

This is the first exhibition of work by Quentin Blake for Dahl’s enduring story, and shows iconic prints from the classic page-turner.

Over at The Temporary Exhibition Gallery, Brick wonders: Around the world in LEGO® bricks uses the Danish delights to recreate some amazing sights from around the world; starting with the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Artist Warren Elsmore has curated the visual feast.

Starting on July 15, the two month show Around the World in 80 Pictures will be in situ at Art Gallery 2 Visit the space and take a journey around the world in this exhibition, which includes works from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Take in Parisian street scenes, Swiss mountains, Jamaican harbours and so much more.

Abington Park Museum is offering you the chance to enjoy a seaside holiday at home with an art collection bringing windswept coasts and buckets and spades to you. All the enjoyment, but without the sand in your shoes!

> For more details visit northamptonmuseums.com

MUSIC Hello

The ‘biggest party of the summer’ is promised by organisers of a one-day festival set to sizzle in the grounds of beautiful Delapré Abbey on July 8.

Summertime Live – which launched in 2022 with a series of successful events countrywide – has assembled a brilliant line-up of live music and DJs, with performances from Artful Dodger, Rickie & Melvin, Baby D, Sonique and Wideboys ready to roll before a headline set from the Classic Ibiza orchestra

“We cannot wait for the crowd to experience this year’s offering of amazing dance music acts,” said organiser Jonathan Ware, “The reaction we’ve seen so far has been unprecedented...” Tickets are on sale at £37.50 with a limited number remaining.

> To book and for more information visit summertimelive.co.uk/northampton

Enjoy lovely Lamport as the sun shines

Now that we’re into the glorious summer months, the green spaces at Lamport Hall & Gardens are a riot of colour and the sound of birdsong is in the air. To make the most of the hazy afternoons and long evenings, the stunning Northamptonshire space is providing some wonderful entertainment.

On Saturday, July 15 Chapterhouse Theatre will deliver their adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s best-loved romantic comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest in the spectacular surroundings of the walled garden. The delightful Cecily, roguish Algernon and the formidable Lady Bracknell are unforgettably larger than life characters who will keep you wildly entertained! Picnic with friends and family and enjoy Wilde’s hilarious tale of double lives and mistaken identities presented in full period costume.

A day later (Sunday, July 16), The Tame Valley Stompers Allstars will go live with traditional New Orleans Jazz from the ‘20s and ‘30s in the Walled Garden. On Saturday, August 5, Lamport welcomes pianist Sophia Rahman and violinist Andres Kaljuste, from Finland, for an evening of Scandinavian music, with pieces by Sibelius, Greig, Stenhammar, Eller and Pärt in the beautiful High Room.

Lamport has just launched the Northamptonshire produce picnic hamper which can be pre-ordered for the aforementioned events at £25 per person. The hamper includes sourdough bread, butter, cheese, charcuterie, pork pie, sweet pastry, cake, chutney and a soft drink, presented in a beautiful ribbontied gift box.

On the August Bank Holiday weekend the venue will host an Antiques and Collectors Fair with more than 80 stalls to browse.

The Hall and Gardens are open throughout the summer on Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 4pm, with the café and gift shop open until 3pm. For more information and bookings visit lamporthall.co.uk

Saturday

Sunday 16th July

Jazz in the Gardens with The Tame Valley Stompers - Walled Garden Jazz

Saturday 5th August

Scandinavian Music with a Baltic Twist with Sophia Rahman and Andres KaljusteHigh Room Concert

Sunday 27th & Monday 28th August Antiques and Collectors Fair with Staghead Events

Prepare to party at Summertime Live

Sophia Rahman and Andres Kaljuste

Pigs Might Fly is a new farmyard musical about the joy of unlikely friendships –and the tour comes to a close at Milton Keynes Theatre on July 16.

Based on the book Mudpuddle Farm by Michael Morpurgo (the man responsible for the splendid War Horse), the star of the piece is Pintsize, the most daring piglet on the farm.

Pintsize is great pals with Diana the sheep and the duo love playing together...until a fence is built between them denying them their fun.

Keen to reunite with his pal, Pintsize is determined to fly over it. But can his ingenuity and determination defy the laws of physics?

Catchy songs, imagination and slapstick humour make this 50 minute show a total treat for youngsters aged three to 11 years.

Hoses will be at the ready on July 29 for another adventure with Fireman Sam!

When his friends go away, Norman Price decides to make his own adventure in Pontypandy – by becoming the star of a visiting circus, but with a tiger on the loose and faulty lights, adventure is replaced by danger.

Can Fireman Sam save the circus?

There are two chances to find out, with performances at 1.30pm and 4pm.

> To book tickets click to atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

THEATRE Hello Sparking imagination

Pigs Might Fly brings the Michael Morpurgobook Mudpuddle Farm to life on stage this summer

Catch Fireman Sam and ‘naughty’ Norman Price on stage at Milton Keynes theatre

PARKLIFE Hello

Acelebration of the natural world will take place in the ancient woodland of Howe Park Wood in Milton Keynes on July 1 and is sure to get little minds all fired up to help our wildlife.

Love Nature Day is an all-ages event giving you the opportunity to meet volunteers who are passionate about moths, swifts and bats.

The free session – running between 11am and 4pm – will have opportunities to go bug hunting and pond dipping, and Parks Trust rangers will offer guided walks.

The woodland boasts more than 200 plant species and is home to 30 different species of butterfly.

On July 4, Howe Park Wood will host a Discover Nature Day tailored to those aged 11 to 13 years old.

The five hour session (from 10am, £22.50) will include wildlife identification, biology, bushcraft and more. Participants get to learn new skills, be inspired by the natural world and meet new pals at the same time.

Parents and guardians won’t be required to stay, but children will need to arrive dressed appropriately for the weather, and with a packed lunch – dig out that weatherproof mac and remember the cheese and pickle sandwiches!

Howe Park is proving quite the centre for summer activities; every Tuesday, Wednesday

Stanwick Lakes in Wellingborough has plenty of great things to take your attention through the long summer days.

Nature engagement activities will run every Tuesday and every other Thursday, with youngsters invited to have a go at pond dipping and den building, and you can go on a mystery walk with one of the on-site rangers. Other attractions include a new play tower and a summer trail, and work is continuing on Stanwick’s National Lottery Funded Heritage projects too, with the opportunity to discover the new roundhouse at the Iron Age settlement, watch the Bronze Age boat taking shape at the heritage hub and explore the new pathway around the Bronze Age Round Barrow

Over in the Heritage Barn, the Northants Guild of Spinners - Weavers and Dyers - will be showcasing their work around ancient ancient textiles every Wednesday. There might even be some outdoor natural dyeing taking place with plants from the Heritage Garden. Heritage Trail leaflets can be collected from the Visitor Centre which will lead you on a wonderful tour of the history of the site of Stanwick Lakes.

> For more information and prices visit stanwicklakes.org.uk

and Thursday between July 25 and August 13 the on-site education centre will be open with nests, skulls and feathers found at local Parks Trust sites on display.

Nature-themed challenges and self-guided trails will occupy little minds too. It’s free to attend – just drop in at a time to suit between 9.30am and 12.30pm.

Over at Broughton Brook Magna Park, storyteller Red Phoenix will be back with a selection of summer tales suitable for all ages (July 29, pre-booking essential. One ticket costs £5 and covers a family of four).

Enjoy the local park while being regaled with tales linked to the season and the area. A series of free Parkland Play dates have also been arranged, which will deliver fun and games with a variety of sporting activities, rideon cars, games and a baby and toddler area.

The sessions will visit Ashland Lakes (July 31), Waterhall Park (August 1), Whitehouse Park (August 2), Oakgrove (August 3) and Stony Stratford Millfield (August 4).

Each Parkland Play event runs from 1pm to 3pm and children must be accompanied by an adult – so you can have some fun too!

> For more event details, or to pre-book where applicable visit theparkstrust.com

Storyteller Red Phoenix

Howe Park Wood Nature Crafts

Howe Park Wood Nature Day

The Iron Age roundhouse

The kids will love the new play tower

See ancient crafts at Stanwick Lakes

Pics: ELWJ Photography

2023 marks the Museum’s 50th anniversary. Discover the Victorian Farmhouse and let the kids run off some energy around the five acres of open green space.

Think you know Milton Keynes? Think again!

The Mayor of Milton Keynes joined us at our 21/2 year anniversary celebration earlier this year

Royal knits, precious babies, bug life, colourful days out, picturesque settings and

Whipsnade Zoo has welcomed lots of new babies including northern rockhopper penguin chicks, Père David deer and Przewalski’s foals. The baby boom has thrilled staff: “These births are important victories for the European Endangered Species Program, as we work to ensure these animals, which face a myriad of threats in the wild, have a strong and genetically varied population at conservations zoos like Whipsnade,” said Head of Zoological Operations Matt Webb.

This beautiful shot of St James the Great church in Hanslope was captured by Scott Newitt on his iPhone. What a glorious morning and a stunning setting.

Participants flocked to Willen Lake for the Color Obstacle Rush, which ‘combines the fun of colour powdered runs, the thrill of an obstacle course, and the atmosphere of a music festival.’ The sun shone and there were smiles all round for the ‘funnest 5k on earth.’ Our snap shows the team from Animals in Need who used the event to swell the charity coffers.

Phil Marsh didn’t have to go far to be rewarded with brilliant bug life: “This beauty stayed with us for several hours in our no-chemical garden in Willen Village,” he said. What a striking image.

Newport Pagnell’s Vintage Event was a roaring success on a sunny day earlier this month – even Winston Churchill put in an appearance! These images capturing the spirit of the day were taken by Christine Davies

Knitting Nana has been strengthening her Royal connections – Newport Pagnell’s brilliant ‘Queen of the Wool’ created a wonderful knitted version of Queen Camilla, who loved her ‘special gift’ and popped back a note to that effect.

a trip back in time; welcome to this month’s Pulse Pics...

Pic: ZSL Whipsnade

WED 26th JULY ‘23

Sandringham Flower Show

Price: £50p/p. Includes entrance fee to flower show, Sandringham Gardens & Sandringham Church.

Browse marquees, enjoy great music and wander around the many show gardens.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 7.45am

CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 7.55am

Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.05am

Sandringham at 5pm

SAT 29th JULY ‘23

Battle Of The Proms at Highclere Castle Price: £62p/p. Entrance to the house not included.

This quintessentially British party in the park features a two-hour orchestral programme with all the last night of the prom’s finale favourites.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 2.45pm

CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 2.55pm

Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 3.05pm

Highclere castle at 7pm

WED 2nd AUG ‘23

West Midland Safari Park

Price: £42per adult, £39 over 65s, £35 per child (3-15yrs), Includes entrance fee.

See the magnificent animals and visit the land of the living dinosaurs.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.10am

CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.20am

Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.30am

West Midlands Safari Park at 5pm

THUR 10th AUG ‘23

Windsor Castle

Price: £55p/p. Includes entrance fee.

Visit the the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world Founded by William the Conqueror.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8am

CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.10am

Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.20am Windsor at 5pm

FRI 11th AUG ‘23

Shrewsbury Flower Show

Price: £50p/p. Includes entrance fee.

The Quarry, a beautiful 29-acre park in the heart of Shrewsbury, will once again be awash with wonderful flowers, fabulous food, and live entertainment, making it the ultimate summer day out!

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8am CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.10am Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.20am Shrewsbury at 5pm

SAT 12th AUG ‘23

Legoland Price: £51 per adult, £46 per child (90cms-15yrs), Includes entrance fee.

Legoland’s interactive rides put you, quite literally in the driving seat. Sign up for some high energy fun at the Fire Academy, steer your own course on the driving school or be captain of your vessel at Coastguard HQ.

Leaves from... Bill’s Coach Hire at 8.00am CMK K4 bus stop at the Point 8.10am Bletchley Bus Station Bay 1 at 8.20am Legoland at 5.30pm

daytrips@billscoachhire.co.uk | www.billscoachhire.co.uk

Stacey Bushes, 1 Hollin Lane, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK12 6HT

Personalised care when you need it most

Here at Saxon Clinic whether you are here for a consultation, minorprocedure, or surgery, we offer personalised patient care to make what can be a scary experience as calming and enjoyable as possible.

Specialities include: Cardiology, Cosmetic Surgery, Dermatology, Ear, Nose & Throat, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, Paediatrics, Private GP Services and Urology.

All staff were extremely friendly and welcoming. I felt that I was given full attention and the greatest care, especially when I was not feeling well. The nurses offered help and support in a kind, willing way, which was reassuring during the times I needed it most.

Google Review April 2023

Enjoy a round of golf at Aylesbury Vale Golf Club

Course

We now have a team of 7 full-time green keepers looking after the course – book yourself a round to see the difference!

Twilight Special (Call to book)

After 4 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday we offer 18 holes for £20, 9 holes for £15 and a 2-seater buggy for £15.

Early Bird Special (Call to book)

Tee off between 6.15 a.m. and 8.00 a.m. Monday to Friday, 18 holes £20, back 9 holes £15, add a 2-seater buggy for £15.

Memberships

During 2023 there is limited availability left for 7-day memberships but our 5-day category will remain open. Simply call in at the pro shop between 7 am and 5pm on any day and we would be delighted to run through prices, tee bookings, competitions, handicaps, driving range, network of 32 courses, members discounts, playing socially with friends etc etc. There are no joining fees and spread payment options are available.

Societies

We give a warm welcome to our societies –call 01525 240196 with your requirements and we will give you a competitive quote.

Aylesbury Vale Golf Club

Stewkley Road, Wing, LU7 0UJ 01525 240196

www.avgc.co.uk

what3words.com: chap.sung.tennis

Milton Keynes Museum makes its own history!

In 2023 MK Museum is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Its first five decades have seen amazing changes, but a few things remain the same - and the passion of its wonderful volunteers is one of those things, writes Sammy Jones.

They are the lifeblood of the Museum, and over the next two issues, we'll be speaking with some of its longest serving time-givers. Perhaps we'll even inspire some of you to join the team...

We pride ourselves on bringing history alive at Milton Keynes Museum, with many opportunities to be hands-on with artefacts.

But visitor taste buds come alive here too, and that is thanks to the baking brilliance of Diane Roder, who heads up the Granary Tea Room, and donates her time to ensure there is always a selection of moreish cakes ready to tempt you.

So good are they, the Museum has many locals who visit for a welcome chance to relax in the tea room to indulge in a slice or two.

Diane, who trained as a cookery teacher, has been asked for her kitchen secrets so frequently that in 2021 she released a book featuring some of her most popular recipes; from scones to bread pudding, and plenty more in-between.

Diane's association with the Museum goes back decades, and pre-dates those sensational sponges that she is now famous for.

She moved to Milton Keynes with her husband, who worked for the Development Corporation, in 1975. Once here, she met a lady making corn dollies to raise funds for the Museum.

'I could do that,' thought Diane, and there began a passion for the place.

“I was very involved with things for years, and then when the Museum re-opened in 1998 after the fire here, the cafe was run by someone else for the first season, and I was asked if I wanted to do it,” she recalled, “I'd never run a cafe before, but said I would give it a go.”

And give it a go, she most certainly did. Twenty-five years later and her cakes are the stuff of legend, with visitors regularly taking to social media and the Museum's Trip Advisor page to share their delight at the unbeatable tastebud temptations.

Now and then: Diane at work in the cafe today and during her early years volunteering at the Museum

Her love for the Museum means Diane is often in her home kitchen from 5am to ensure a steady stream of cakes are ready at the Wolverton hub come opening time –some months she makes in excess of one hundred treats.

The Victoria Sponge always gets the thumbs up. Us? We're all about the coffee and walnut!

“I bake every morning and am at the Museum every day,” she says, clearly unaware that working voluntarily seven days a week is not the norm, “The chocolate cake is definitely a favourite with children and the coffee and walnut cake is a hit with adults.”

Move over Mary Berry, and do one Delia Smith! Diane is the cake Queen in these parts, and her crown is firmly in place.

But though her baking makes the rest of us salivate, Diane is nonplussed about her own creations. You'll not often find her with a slice of her own work: “I don't find food particularly interesting,” she admits.

Time off is a rarity, but when she does find some spare hours, if she's not out being active, she might pop the television on: “...but I never watch cooking programmes!” she assures us.

Diane is now 80 years young, and has no plans to turn the oven off and step away from the kitchen.

“I'll keep going as long as I am able to,” she promised, “It keeps me busy.”

As we mentioned, the Museum is celebrating a special birthday this year, and Keith Wootton has been a valued part of the volunteering team, almost since the start.

Keith turns 60 this year, and did his first ever shift at the museum back in 1979.

“In those days we only opened two times a year, which was essentially focused around a

weekend in May, and another in September. Because it was so limited everyone made a big effort and those events were really quite vibrant and we used to get very large numbers of people to visit. And there was very little else to do in Milton Keynes at the time!”

Keith was an occasional volunteer, helping to move tractors around and getting hands-on with whatever needed doing, until university called and he swapped local history for learning, spending a few years away from the history hub.

But post-academia, in 1987, he returned: “By that time the Museum was opening up fairly regularly and I became a fairly regular volunteer.”

What were the attractions during those early days?

“We always tried to do a history of the local companies; in the timber barn there was a lot of agricultural kit, because there was lots of farming around.

“The space where the Street of Shops now is was called the shippon, another word for a cowshed. There was a section with cameras and projectors and that sort of thing, another with radios, and one with stationary engines.

“We only had some of the downstairs space at that point, the forge and wheelwright display, and there was a room full of junk – back in the day people were very generous and our founding volunteers were very good at going out and asking favours of people, so items had been arriving in huge amounts.

“Inevitably, you asked for one thing and you would get 10. So at that time it was sort of half display and half storage!"

In his time at the Museum Keith used to organise the Transport Day and has supported the Christmas events.

“Like any good volunteer I'll do anything else asked of me too, of course!” he promises.

Keith is also one of the founders of The Old Lawnmower Club, which is independent of the Museum, but hosts its annual rally on the site. What do you think the Museum will look like in another half century?

“It has changed immensely and it is difficult to predict the future, but I think it's become a real asset to MK and what is interesting about this Museum is it is now reporting and showing things which have happened since it started.

"Not all Museum's do that kind of thing, but the director, Bill, has always been very keen to show the change and the progression and it is an asset for the community; it is part of the community rather than something that people just come and look at for the afternoon.”

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

It has changed immensely and it is difficult to predict the future, but I think it's become a real asset to MK…

Mower man Keith Wootton

The Museum offers a great day out for the young and young at heart

Danish skincare brand Nuori has just introduced The One, a face cream with eight hero ingredients which will tackle dehydration, dullness, uneven skin tones, fine lines and wrinkles – Nuori says it’s a ‘powerhouse formula’ and it uses none of the 26 fragrance allergens in skincare, which means that even the most sensitive skin can enjoy the benefits of Nuori. It’s alcohol free, too. Is this The One for you? Very possibly.

RRP: £55

Get it: nuori.co.uk

Sisley Paris are skin experts, but they know that anti-ageing treatments aren’t just for faces and bodies – it should apply to hair too, and their Hair Rituel shampoo, treatment and beauty formulas bring together essential oils, minerals, vitamins and proteins.

New to the range comes the Color Beautifying Hair Care Mask with a nourishing, protecting complex that makes colour last twice as long after 10 applications, and works on both the hair fibre and the scalp.

RRP: £81

Get it: Harrods Beauty at centre:mk or online at sisley-paris.com

‘No Makeup Makeup’ is all about ‘your skin but better’ and Pearl Beauty has the perfect range of minimal, multi-purpose everyday makeup items to enhance your skin and give maximum impact with minimum show.

The brand’s products are user friendly, mistake proof and made with clean ingredients. The shades are subtle, versatile and ideal for everyday use. We love the Multi Purpose Lip & , and is a beautifully calm £22

A salon strength, light-weight formula that not only removes brassy tones, but immediately smooths and detangles hair, leaving it feeling silky soft, frizzfree and shiny; Jerome Russell Bblonde Intense Silver Conditioning Water penetrates the hair deeply to repair damage without weighing it down.

Enriched with Hydrolysed Wheat Protein for intense conditioning performance, it can be used on all hair types including bleached, grey or pre-lightened hair.

RRP: £9.99

Get it: Superdrug stores in centre:mk Milton Keynes and Grosvenor Centre, Northampton

Clarins Double Serum is a beauty icon for men and women, and now it comes in a choice of two textures, with the introduction of a new lightweight version.

Double Serum brings together ‘high-performance plant ingredients and technological innovation’ which tackles five vital functions, but the newbie is quickly absorbed, delivers a ‘bareskin’ finish and leaves no oily residue.

Whether you prefer the original, or switch to the lightweight, it’ll work just as hard to restore healthier, younger looking skin; fine lines are smoothed, pores reduced and the skin appears more radiant. Pass the bottle this way!

RRP: £85 (50ml)

Get it: Clarins counters or clarins.co.uk

Here’s our pick of the new to the shelves beauty treatments available at your local counter or online. It’s summertime and you’ll be looking fine with these goodies...

‘Technology to tighten and lift’

Looking for a one-stop-shop for your beauty and skin treatments? Look no further than Dermaspa® Clinic in Milton Keynes.

Dermaspa offers an extensive range of beauty, skin, aesthetic, and body sculpting treatments, all under one roof. The team, led by director and skin expert Nilam Holmes, offers leading brand treatments such as Alma, Hydrafacial, Inmode, Collagenwave, and Emface, to name a few.

Dermaspa is respected for offering advice and service to clients with specific skin problems such as acne, pigmentation, and other skin issues, as well as helping clients who are looking for a non-invasive treatment programme as part of a long-term skin regime to target ageing and to rejuvenate skin.

Dermaspa also has machines offering laser tattoo removal, as well as laser hair removal with one of the leading machines on the market in the Alma Soprano Platinum. The clinic has recently updated its treatment

menu with the hugely anticipated Emface - a one-of-its-kind treatment that combines radio frequency energy and High Intensity Facial Electromagnetic Stimulation technology to tighten and lift, all carried out via a 30-minute non-invasive treatment.

For body contouring, Dermaspa’s new Emsculpt NEO treatment is leading the way. The treatment can target different body areas such as flanks, stomach, arms,

legs, and knees with fantastic results - all within 20 minutes treatment time as part of a recommended course.

Visit the Dermaspa website for more information on all our treatments. It contains in-depth information, videos and FAQs on the treatments we offer and you can book a consultation with one of our therapists to discuss your treatment, at which will can assess your skin and answer your questions before advising on the best skin programme for your requirements

Get in touch or find out more: 01908 242 023 info@dermaspa.co.uk www.dermaspa.co.uk Insta: @dermaspa_mk

•

Lisa Alsford

Mr Hitesh Dabasia Consultant Spinal Surgeon

At your consultation, I will aim to undertake a detailed clinical assessment and arrange imaging of your spine using an MRI. This will be followed by a discussion of all treatment options to help select the correct treatment option for you. Conservative or non-invasive treatment works for most patients. However, for those that have not responded to these approaches the most common procedures I undertake are:

• Lumbar Microdiscectomy

• Lumbar Decompression

• Anterior Cervical Decompression

Spinal Treatments and Surgery in Milton Keynes

If there is one thing that your extensive experience in spinal surgery and conditions has taught you what would that be?

The key lesson that I have learned from my experiences of working in spinal surgery is the importance of being a surgeon that has adaptability. As a surgeon, I see patients from a variety of backgrounds, and it is important to be able to adapt the care that I can offer to the individual needs of a patient. I also ensure that I remain adaptable to new techniques and technologies that can help enhance my practice and improve the care of my patients.

What do you love most about your role as a Spinal surgeon?

The most enjoyable aspect of my role as a spinal surgeon is having the ability to be able to help patients gain relief from their

pain. It is immensely rewarding to help patients return to a normal functioning lifestyle both in terms of their job and in performing everyday activities such as playing with children/ grandchildren, undertaking sports, or being able to travel on holiday.

What is your consultant’s top tip for managing back pain?

Back pain can be improved by adopting some key lifestyle measures. The most important of these is to reduce body weight if you are overweight. It is widely recognised that for every extra pound of body weight, this equates to an extra four pounds of pressure on structures in the spine such as the muscles, joints, and discs. This can lead to an increased risk of degeneration in the lumbar discs, joints, and ligaments. Other measures include helping patients stop smoking and improve their core strength.

If you would like to learn more about our specialist consultants or to book an initial consultation, please call us on 01908 887362 or search our website at www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/saxon

No-churn chocolate ice cream

INGREDIENTS

for 10 servings

1 can of condensed milk

280ml very cold double cream

2 tsp vanilla paste

2 tbsp sieved, unsweetened, cocoa powder

Your favourite topping - optional

METHOD

Pour all ingredients into a cold bowl and whisk on high speed to medium/stiff peaks.

Fold your favourite topping, which can be M&Ms or other chocolate treats.

Pour everything into a container and freeze for four hours or overnight. If frozen overnight, leave out for 15 minutes before serving. Top with additional chocolate shavings.

Our recipes come from MK Pulse food writer, Sofia Gallo, an acclaimed local chef, food writer and teacher at Milton Keynes Cookery School. She has recently won the ICG Cooking Competition and was a contestant on BBC’s Masterchef.

Follow Sofia:

Instagram: @in_cucinacon_sofia

Learning to cook up a storm

Last month, Pulse Magazine contributor Emma-Rose Norris was lucky enough to be invited down to Milton Keynes Cookery School’s Street Food Evening Masterclass to learn the ropes of three very different, yet tantalisingly tasty, cuisines.

The Beginnings

The idea for MK Cookery School began one year whilst Bav – the owner – was working for Pizza Express; after having won best performing restaurant, the staff were treated to a team-building cookery experience at Venturi’s Table – the UK’s first corporate Cookery School. Bav, who has always had a passion for food, loved every second of her experience and realised that running something similar was her dream: and so the idea for MK Cookery School was born.

‘As I am often eating it, cooking it or trying out different restaurants, I just thought “why not? I’m sure I’ll be fine doing this as I love everything about food!” Needless to say, it did entail a lot more than that!’

After initiating the venture in 2017, the school has gone from strength to strength – although Bav openly admits that the amount of working hours she puts in are somewhat overwhelming, she wouldn’t change a second of her experience.

‘With the help of my husband Sam, along with the rest of my family, I persevered. They have been with me from the beginning and I can’t thank them enough for helping with last minute shopping; stepping in for dishwashing duties – there’s been LOTS after classes; fixing things when they break – thank goodness Sam’s a tradesman – and for generally just being there for me.’

My Experience

As we pulled up to the Cookery School, located at Brooklands Farm in Broughton, I was nervous but most-definitely excited – as a big foodie, what more could you want from an evening than delicious food and cocktails? When we stepped through the door, my nerves instantly dissipated when we were greeted by Bav, who was exceptionally warm and full of smiles. With a glass of prosecco now in hand, it was time to meet the other chefs and attendees. Whilst we started to socialise, Bav explained how the evening would run – it was evident that she really knew her stuff; everything was extremely wellplanned, organised and thought-out. We would be put into small groups and travel around the ‘world’

in our four different hot-spots. With clean surfaces and hands, efficient chefs and helpers and friendly faces all round, we were ready to cook!

First up were the cocktails – we were tasked with making a Mojito with Michael from Papi’s Cocktails. Throughout the tutorial, we learnt how to make a true classic the traditional way and were given professional hints which would take our homemade cocktails to the next level. We particularly liked the fact that the cocktail they taught was super accessible and used easy-tosource supermarket ingredients. In fact, the same could be said for every dish and drink.

Each person received two cocktail tokens that were included in the price, which meant I could sample ample amounts of Papi’s Chilli Passionfruit Margarita which is, for all intents and purposes, probably my most-loved cocktail. The sweetness from the fruit and spicy notes from the Tajin rim make this an unbeatable drink –just don’t tell my mixologist brother! Their Piña Colada was also my partner’s best ever version of the classic.

Next was our first culinary venture – Mexican Pulled Pork Soft Tacos, taught by ‘Auntie Em’ from Auntie Em’s Kitchen. I was thrilled as Mexican is one of my favourite cuisines to cook at home. I can truly say, after having been taught how easy and delicious it is to make homemade tortillas, I won’t be buying a shop-bought version ever again! Another real bonus was that we were able to make the guacamole hot ‘to taste,’ which suited me as a spice-lover!

Then came the Thai Sui-Mei Dumplings and dipping sauce, taught by Chef Ni from Thai Home Cooking. As someone who has never been able to eat out at a Thai restaurant due to a severe nut allergy, this was the hotspot I was most trepidatious about, yet Chef Ni made it clear that she was well-versed in allergy restrictions; I was able to eat everything I made, and boy was I pleased! The Sui-Mei Dumplings were somehow both soft, moist and crispy on the bottom and, once again, we were able to create our dipping sauce to suit our own spice and garlic preferences – which meant I could put plenty in! Chef Ni’s incredible Thai Green Chicken and Thai Green Vegetable Curries were the perfect accompaniment to the dumplings.

Bav - the brains behind MK Cookery School

Our completed Sui-Mei dumplings

The samosa-making process

Finally we made our way to ‘India’ to make some Chaat Masala Samosas, where we were taught by Bav herself. These were absolutely everything you could want in a street-food dish. Granted, it took me a while to master the art of folding a samosa (which may or may not, at this point, be down to the amount of cocktails I had consumed!) but the time and patience it took was well-worth it. The finished dish was as pretty as it was tasty and I was elated that it was topped with one of my favourite curries – Chana Masala – which was cooked to absolute perfection.

The evening didn’t feel rushed at all; a few cocktails meant that we were even more sociable than usual and stayed a smidge past the expected end, yet we weren’t ushered out – this was truly an amazing experience. The variety of options for other courses on offer at the school mean that it is an activity that can be easily repeated. We not only had plenty of hands-on time to cook up a storm and watch the experienced chefs at work, but we were also able to enjoy our time relaxing, meeting and socialising with others and, of course, devouring the fruits of our labour with 3 delicious dishes and cocktails at the end of each of the classes, plus leftovers to take away. Bav even ensured that the recipes we created were emailed out to us later on in the week, meaning we can now recreate them again and again. What more can you ask?

As someone who likes to think of themselves as a pretty decent home-cook, I thought – without sounding too immodest – I might enjoy the experience, but not necessarily take away too many new skills, but I was proven so wrong. On the other hand, my partner – who is a self-proclaimed kitchen avoider – ultimately enjoyed the evening just as much as I did. The owner, Bav, was evidently so passionate about her craft and gave us all tips we could take away for life, but sorry – if you want to know the tricks of the trade, you’ll have to book up! So, whether you’re a complete novice or a kitchen pro, there really is something for everyone at Milton Keynes Cookery School.

> Emma is our resident restaurant reviewer. If you would like her to visit and review your restaurant get in touch at mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmaroseeats

About MK Cookery School

At Milton Keynes Cookery School, you can choose from over 20 classes ranging from 2 hour masterclasses; 4 hour sessions; halfday or full-day courses, which are all taught by the school’s highlyexperienced chefs.

You’ll get plenty of time to perfect your cooking skills, and you’ll also get to relax and enjoy the experience with a delicious meal at the table at the end of the class.

MK Cookery School’s cooking lessons are designed to be informative and hands-on – but they are easy-going enough that you’ll have fun while you learn. Whether you’re flying solo, attending in a pair or you’re part of a bigger group, their flexible lesson space has you covered. It’s also a great location for corporate events, birthday parties or special occasions.

Keep your eye out on their social media for pop-up events (like the one I attended!) too.So, what are you waiting for?

Follow MK Cookery School on:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mkcookeryschool

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mkcookeryschool

Or check out their website to book from a variety of daytime and evening classes on offer: mkcookeryschool.co.uk

Keeping our pets safe while the sun shines

The sun is shining, the weather is sweet...but we all have a responsibility to make sure that our animals are safe from the heat. Every year, animals perish in truly horrible situations that could be avoided. Sammy Jones spoke with Shirley Jones from the MK and North Bucks RSPCA about how to prevent tragedy.

The temperatures are rising, the sunscreen is being slapped on, trips to ice cream vans are a little treat, and the air-con is working overtime. We might be hot and bothered, but we know how to manage ourselves when things get hot and sticky.

But, while we can throw off the layers and cool down, animals don’t have the same luxury, and they are reliant upon us to keep them comfortable.

Failure to take adequate steps can lead to horror, so you simply can’t afford to be complacent.

“Even if you don’t have a pet of your own you might spot something concerning and some quick action might save a life,” said Shirley, fundraiser with the RSPCA Milton Keynes and North Bucks branch, “For example, animals in the countryside should all have access to shade and drinking water.

Domestically, it tends to be dogs most at risk owing to their thick coats and the need to lose heat through panting rather than sweating, but if you have a rabbit cage in a sun trap, or a hamster placed in a window space where the sun spills in, you need to move them and make provision.

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 means it is an offence ‘if a person causes, by act or omission, an animal to suffer. This would cover suffering caused by taking a dog for a walk in excessive heat or leaving one in a hot car.’

Every year, Facebook community pages are filled with upset people who have seen dogs being walked during the hottest part of the day. It’s more than a little bit prickly for their pads; it burns and can cause awful injuries.

That doesn’t mean we should pause walking our pooches – of course they need

It’s cool for cats - cooling pads will provide respite for puddy-tats

to stretch their legs, spend a penny and take care of their business. Owners just need to think a bit smarter.

“We recommend walking your dog in the morning or evening when it’s cooler to reduce the risk of heatstroke and burning their paws on the pavement,” Shirley said.

“Sadly, every year inspectors are called out to animals suffering in terribly hot conditions, which could so easily have been avoided.

“Never leave dogs in hot cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day – even if you think, ‘it’s only for a little while.’ If it is 22 degrees outside, inside temperatures can quickly rise to 47 degrees, which can be fatal.”

And sun cream isn’t just for us – use petsafe sun cream on the exposed parts of your pet’s skin, paying particular attention to the tips of their ears and nose, to avoid sunburn. If your dog or cat has white or light-coloured fur, this is even more important – they are even more vulnerable to burning.

All pets need to have access to shade and fresh drinking water to help them stay cool. Dogs are partial to ice cubes being added to the water bowl, or get a little more creative and make them some ice cube treats. Rover will show his appreciation!

Damp towels to lie on, or an ice pack wrapped in a towel both provide relief from the heat – but definitely do not place a damp towel over your dog – rather than helping them, this will trap in heat and make the problem worse.

Light grooming is a winner, too; brushing away excess hair will leave your dog with a less dense coat.

Some dogs are mad for splashing around in a paddling pool, so if you have a pool, feel free to hand it over! Not all dogs are water furries though, and if yours isn’t partial, don’t force them.

It may seem obvious, but if you are planning a day out with your four-legged pal, do check in advance whether dogs are allowed – you don’t want to arrive to face disappointment. Do you know signs of heatstroke and what to do if you spot them?

“Try the five-second test,” urges Shirley, “If it is too hot for your hands, it is too hot for their paws!

“Other signs to look out for include your dog limping or refusing to walk, licking or

chewing at the feet, pads which are darker in colour, missing part of the pad, or blisters and redness.”

Heatstroke can bring on heavy panting and difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, or he or she may appear lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated. They might also vomit or collapse.

It’s traumatic, and essential that they have their body temperature lowered gradually for the best chance of survival,” Shirley said.

“Move them to a cool or shaded area and pour cool, not cold, water over the dog. Never place towels over the dog in this situation and allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.

“Continue to pour cool water over the dog until their breathing starts to settle a little, but not so much that they start shivering. Dogs that have lost consciousness will stop panting, despite still having a very high temperature, these dogs require urgent aggressive cooling as a priority. Avoid pouring water on or near your dogs head – the risk of them inhaling water could lead to drowning.”

Heatstroke is scary and requires urgent veterinary treatment as soon as the dog is cool.

Some canines are more prone to heatstroke than others; very young and very old dogs, those with thick and heavy coats and those with flat faces, like pugs and bulldogs all need particular attention, and medication can also play a part in elevating the risk for some dogs.

But if you heed these RSPCA guidelines, summer for you and your four-legged friends will be sunny and safe, not scary.

Want to support the RSPCA here in Milton Keynes?

You could volunteer your time with the charity, or help out in one of the local branches (in Newport Pagnell, Stony Stratford and Bletchley).

If you want to do something more energetic, how about a sponsored challenge, or donate through their Amazon Wishlist

For more details and ideas on how you can help them with their invaluable work visit rspcamiltonkeynes.co.uk

Even if you don’t have a pet of your own you might spot something concerning and some quick action might save a life.”

Don’t leave animals in carsnot even for a short time

If it’s too hot for your hands, it’s too hot for their paws

DIGGING DEEP

Prickly pals

We always talk about the blooms living in our garden, but significantly fewer of us will be lucky enough to have hedgehogs living in our outside spaces, but they are definitely a friend to gardeners – they eliminate beetles, caterpillars and invertebrates, and have a charm of all of their own.

Sadly, today the odds are stacked against our prickly pals.

Busy roads, disappearing habitat and global warming have all played a part in depleting their numbers.

These days, the nearest many of us get to seeing a hog in the wild is when we spot another casualty on the roadside.

“Despite a recent report finding UK hedgehog populations to be stabilising after years of decline, they are still on the Mammals Society Red List as vulnerable to extinction,” says Kim Tondryk from Deanshanger Hedgehog Rescue, “...but if we can encourage them into our safe garden spaces, we may be able to help them thrive again.”

Deanshanger Hedgehog Rescue was founded by Rachel and Dom Matthews in 2021. Both have Animal Science Degrees and are responsible for the bulk of triage care and medications administered, but a mini army of volunteers helps the charity with its work too. It doesn’t only take a village to raise a child, but to nurture hogs back to health too, it seems!

“We currently have 10 hedgehogs in our primary shed. We’ve got two ready to be released in our old shed, a mum and three babies in our outdoor hutch, and several in foster care.”

Attracting these beautiful animals into your garden needn’t be hard work.

“Hedgehogs may wander up to two miles a night and need to be able to move easily between gardens. You can install a ‘Hedgehog Highway’ to encourage them to visit. It’s as easy as creating a gap or a hole in your fence or hedges large enough for a hedgehog to crawl through - about the size of a CD.”

These creatures don’t like immaculate gardens, and if you’ve swapped grass seed for fake turf, forget it – no creature will thank

How does your garden grow?

The successional sowing of seeds in short rows has paid off. Salad crop after another has been grown and nibbled by the children to their great delight and has contributed to school lunches on occasions.

Rhubarb has been a prolific cropper, and courgettes are best picked at 12cms (4” – 5”) by snapping their stalks. This discourages fungal infections.

The leaves of spring-planted garlic are turning yellow, so the bulbs have been lifted with the hand fork and left to dry in the sun.

The best time for watering is debatable but in the morning is generally deemed to be the best, before evaporation occurs, boosted weekly by using a high-potash liquid feed.

you for that. Bugs can’t live in it, and it contributes to the rising numbers of starving hogs taken in by rescue centres.

Messy areas are a necessity for our wildlife; piles of logs, leaves and wild growing spaces will encourage them. If you have a pond, ensure there is an easy escape –rocks, steps or a log will do the job.

Want to provide them with an easy meal? Stick to kitten biscuits and a bowl of fresh water.

“Hedgehogs don’t have the best eyesight either, so make sure any netting you are using is raised, so they can’t get tangled in it,” Kim advises.

Many casualties arrive at the rescue centre with mange, parasites or ringworm, while others present with a higher burden of ticks and fleas due to underlying conditions. Predator attacks aren’t uncommon either, with badgers, foxes, rats, crows and magpies regular culprits.

Sometimes they arrive as a result of our failings.

“Please check for sleeping hedgehogs before strimming or mowing areas of longer grass, especially near hedgerows!” urges Kim, “We always get a few who have either ingested poison, commonly slug pellets or rat bait. These are very sad and difficult cases, and there often isn’t much we can do except take them to one of the vets we partner with to end their suffering.”

These charming little creatures need our help, and at Deanshanger Hedgehog Rescue they have a safe space if needed. But what is it that makes them so special?

“The European hedgehog is the UK’s only spiny mammal,” Kim says, “They also happen to be some of the sweetest, cutest creatures to care for.”

We fill the bird bath with water at the same time.

The first of our early potatoes, raised in large tubs and earthed up with old leaf-mould and sieved soil are to be lifted.

Behind the summerhouse is an untidy area, now established as a Conservation Area. We have a hedgehog house, and, as baby hedgehogs may be appearing this month, we are offering meat-based dog food for them. We are leaving the patch of nettles for the caterpillars of butterflies and other insects. July, the season of early harvesting and tasting - good luck!

Enjoy year-round use from your conservatory

Multi-award-winning T&K Home Improvements are leading the way with innovative roof styles that will keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Not only do they look great, but they also significantly reduce energy costs from older roofs.

T&K’s Insulate+ Replacement Roof System is made from quality materials that are designed to last for years without needing repairs or replacement. Plus, they come with a 10-year warranty!

Now that the hotter weather is upon us, having a conservatory that is kept cool is important for several reasons. First and foremost, a cool conservatory ensures a

comfortable and enjoyable space for relaxation and recreation. This can be achieved by adding thermally efficient transparent vents to your roof. They create more light and circulation of air, meaning homeowners can utilise their conservatory all year round, even during the hot summer months.

Homeowners can now enjoy the beauty of a conservatory without compromising on durability and energy efficiency. This stylish alternative is tailor made to fit the existing framework so that homeowners can transform their conservatories into an extension for their home. With this new system, customers can enjoy natural light and warmth while still being able to control temperature and keep energy costs low.

Why choose T&K to replace your conservatory roof?

With over 44 years of industry experience, T&K have the expertise to help with every step of the process. They work closely in collaboration to ensure that your home improvements are the perfect fit.

If you’d like to take a closer look at their products, then head on down to their showroom in Wellingborough to view their wide range of products. Visit www.tkhi.co.uk to find out more.

Increased security and noise reduction are also other great benefits from transforming your conservatory roof. The roof system comes in a range of colours and styles to complement your home’s exterior design— adding an extra level of aesthetic appeal to your property.

A recent change in building regulations allowed the reliable and trusted brand to launch the new Insulate+ Replacement Roof System earlier this year. The team are passionate and excited about this and have already helped a significant number of customers improve their home.

Are you fed up with clutter?

Access4Lofts, make it easy and affordable to create the space you need!

Have you ever looked around your home and thought “arghhh we could do with more space?” or are you about to have a tidy up but don’t want to throw everything out? Well, the answer could be to make more use of the space you’ve already got, literally under your own roof.

For many home owners, the loft is an underutilised area because it can be difficult and dangerous to reach. Milton Keynes based loft ladder installer, Access4Lofts, whose slogan is ‘Creating Space The Easy Way’ can change all that, often in less than a day.

Access4Lofts Milton Keynes is owned by Kelvin Lee. Much of the work he carries out is for growing families “I know how crucial storage space can be for large families” says Kelvin.” I also find that a large percentage of my clients are retired people looking for the safest access to their loft available.”

Kelvin adds that “With space at such a premium, it makes sense to make the most of your loft “installing a loft ladder is quick and affordable. It’s less expensive than a garden shed and it means you don’t have to store everything out of the house.”

Access4Lofts provides a free survey and quote service so you can find out what is achievable with your loft area. For the full works, customers can get a retractable 3-section ladder, a new hatch, a floating floor over the loft insulation and lighting.

Freeing up a room currently clogged with clutter can save a lot of trouble and expense, as Jozsef explains “some people looking for more space consider moving to a bigger home but this needn’t be

necessary. People are surprised by the amount of space a loft can create we can even include shelving to maximise the space.”

Access4Lofts is an approved Which? Trusted Trader which means they have been accessed by Which? and passed their stringent checks. For added confidence, Access4Lofts has full public liability insurance and all ladders and work carried out comes with a Lifetime Guarantee.

>> To find out how Kelvin can create more space for you and your family or to book a free survey and quote, scan the code or visit www.access4lofts.co.uk/ milton-keynes or give Kelvin a call on 01908 871526

Garden Design &

Mondo bring ‘mini punk-rock Picasso’s’ to the new city

The last time Mondo Generator laid down their musical wares in Milton Keynes was way back in 2004, at the now defunct Pitz venue.

Not long out of Queens of the Stone Age, and formerly a component of Californian aces Kyuss, Nick Oliveri’s blistering side-hustle was a chance for him to unleash the more raw, unkempt side of his musical soul in the band that he had founded back in 1997.

The personnel in that Mondo line-up have long since moved on, but the band is now as potent as it is perfect with the addition of guitarist Mike Pygmie, who can also be found in the ranks of John Garcia’s Band of Gold.

Drummer Mike Amster also assumes duties behind the kit with stoner leaders Nebula –some of you will have caught him playing in that guise at The Craufurd Arms last summer.

It is the same venue that you will be able to see Mondo Generator on July 24, when the boys come to shake things up in the new city.

In 2020 Mondo Generator delivered the brilliantly angry and awesome elpee F*ck

It, a release that Nick’s former musical

collaborator, the much-missed Mark Lanegan declared to be ‘a stone cold masterpiece.’

‘This is the rare record that perfectly mirrors the uniquely unparalleled mindset and worldview of its creator,’ Mark wrote, “It’s a record full of fire, black humor and diversity, every song a memorable mini-punk rock Picasso...this is a record that is destined to become a seminal and beloved classic, the all time favorite record of many of the lucky people, young and old, who are exposed to it.

With his addictive and instantly memorable vocal parts and hooks, Nick Oliveri could write hit songs in his sleep, and there are hints of his ability to do that throughout this record. The fact is, that would be, as Nick himself would say, “Too easy.”’

This March the band entered the studio to begin work on the successor to that release, promising ‘We’ve got some songs that we’re really proud of and we can’t wait to share them with you.’

We imagine we’ll be getting a taste of those The Craufurd show.

Meanwhile, Torus has bagged the guest spot for the date – a chance for Alfie and the boys to support one of their true influences.

“We are really looking forward to this gig,” he said, “As a band, Nick Oliveri has been a massive influence on us, as we’ve been into Kyuss and Queens of the Stone Age growing up and he has been a big part of our musical journey.

We are very excited, and of course it will be nice to come back to The Crauf...”

They’ve got a wealth of cool stuff to get through: “We’ll have plenty of brand-new tunes, as we tend to add in a new song every other gig and change it up all the time, and we’ll put in a couple of songs from the Sail EP that we had out a year or so back.

“There will be a lot of sweat, blood and broken eardrums!”

Lots of other stuff has been going down in the Torus camp too, with new material and studio time dominating.

“We’ve been working on an album, and have spent the past year writing new tunes,” Alfie told me, “There is talk of a single in the works for September, and we’ve been working with a producer in a studio in Watford... it’s all coming together.

“In terms of the music, we are the best we’ve ever been, so we are very excited for the near future,” he added.

Atacama will make their live debut at the bash.

> Tickets are on sale now. Visit thecraufurdarms. com or seetickets.com

Mondo Generator - Nick, Mike Pygmie and Mike Amster

Torus - promising sweat, blood and broken eardrums

Pic: Nik Sayers

Reggae Land is back to ‘Bowl’ you over

After its storming success in Campbell Park last summer, no-one was surprised when Reggae Land announced it was upsizing to the grand space of The National Bowl for its 2023 delivery, writes Sammy Jones.

On August 5 & 6 some 30,000 music fans will descend on the iconic venue which will, over the course of the weekend, welcome more than 80 artists to four stages.

That all important line-up comprises ‘a mouthwatering mix of reggae icons past, present and future with every facet of the vast sound showcased by the best in the scene,’ promise organisers, and they really have come good on that promise – check that mammoth line-up out for yourselves.

Each of those stages will have its own look and atmosphere and carefully programmed soundtrack; from dub to dancehall, dii-steppers to classic lover’s rock, whatever takes your reggae fancy, you’ll be catered for, with a marvellous mixture of pioneering legends, new school stars and accomplished talents as standard.

Global chart topper Sean Paul, next level beatboxer Beenie Man, pioneering jungle man Shy FX, reggae boffin David Rodigan, reggae legends Barrington Levy, Alborosie, Mr Vegas, iconic vocalists Steel Pulse, Tarrus Riley, Junior Marvin & The Legendary Wailers, dub kings like Mad Professor, Channel One, King Tubby’s Sound System, Mungo’s HiFi, Trojan Sound System and Grammy award winner Kabaka Pyramid all figure among the billing.

The always raucous Dub Pistols play one of their famous live shows, Massive Attack and The Wild Bunch man Daddy G pairs off for a special versus set with Dj, director and musician Don Letts, with plenty more from Protoje, Steel Pulse, General Levy, Desmond Decker’s Aces, Macka B & The Roots Ragga Band, Congo Natty and Iration Steppas

Last year’s family-friendly spectacular was nominated in not one, not two, but three categories at the UK Festival Awards, and now its move to The National Bowl means that Reggae Land is following in the footsteps of artists including Foo Fighters, David Bowie and Queen.

Music aside, and ticket-holders will have to manage their time well to cram in all the good stuff on the menu.

A Reggae flea market, a fairground, an entire Carnival Float stage along with dancers, VIP zone and merchandise stalls will take attention, and you’ll need to refuel with so much good stuff going on.

Luckily, more than 50 food traders will be sizzling over in the Caribbean Food Village, and helping it to slide down, can we suggest something fancy from the Rum Shacks, Gin Bars or Caribbean cocktail bars?

‘Reggae Land will set a new standard for reggae events in the UK,’ say those behind the big bash, and it certainly feels that way.

> Get connected, or cry into your cocktail when you miss out: reggaeland.co.uk

Saturday

Main Stage

Beenie Man - Steel Pulse - Freddie McGregor & The Big Ship Family - David Rodigan - Desmond Dekker’s Aces ft Delroy Williams - General Levy - Yvonne Curtis -

Hosted by Solo Banton

Big Top

Shy Fx - Daddy G - Don Letts - Natty Campbell -

Trojan Sound System - Dub Pistols Live - Horseman

- Donovan Kingjay - Bristol Hi Fi - Rhoda DakarChainska Brassika - Hosted by Blak Prophetz

Carnival Stage

Congo Natty - Ed Solo - Deekline - Benny Page -

Navigator - Earl Gateshead - Nicky Blackmarket - Mc

Magika - King Tubby’s Sound System - DJ Killa Kutz - Shayna Marie - Simma

Rompa’s Reggae Shack Stage

Dub Pistols - DJ Set - Uncle Dugs & Navigator - Daddy Nature - T-Cuts - DJ Dansey & Mister Bounce - DJ ArdiAyito - Rolling Thunder

Sunday

Main Stage

Sean Paul - Barrington Levy - Alborosie & Shengen Clan - Kabaka Pyramid - Mr Vegas - Junior Marvin & The Legendary Wailers - Carroll Thompson - Janet Kay - Hosted by Solo Banton

Big Top

Protoje - Lila Ike - Kalpee - Tippa Irie - Channel OneMungo’s Hi Fi & Friends - Mad Professor - Sister Aisha - Sister Audry - Macka B & The Roots Ragga - Royal Sounds - Hosted by Blak Prophetz

Carnival Stage

Serial Killaz & Top Cat - Iration Steppas - Saxon SoundKenny Ken & The Ragga Twins - Izzy Bossy - Ras Demo aka Demolition Man - Jamie Rodigan - Seduction City Sounds - Lady Banton - Night Nurse - Tippa

Rompa’s Reggae Shack Stage

Shumba Youth - Daddy Nature - T-Cuts - DJ Dansey & Mister Bounce - Ayito - DJ Ardi - Savanna SmallRolling Thunder - Clapper Priest - Chilli-Dubs

Reggae Land 2022 - it was such a hit in CMK that The National Bowl will host the event this year

Hometown show for the Rock n Roll Survivor

Last year Del Bromham released his autobiography, Rock n Roll Survivor, a page-turner as lively as it was engrossing and engaging.

Now the frontman with Stray is bringing his one-man show to Stony Stratford, for a date at York House where the ace raconteur will share stories about his life in music on July 15.

Naturally he’ll pick up the guitar to play some of his many compositions acoustically, and others by the artists who have influenced him.

‘The first wave of heavy guitar idols were usually Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck,’ states the Encyclopedia of Popular Music, ‘Del Bromham’s past work should be reappraised as he clearly slipped through the net.’ Del has been touring this show around the country and the response has been brilliant. This hometown show will be a blinder!

> The show starts at 8pm and tickets are £10 (adv), £12 (on the door). Visit york-house.org.uk for yours.

Get in sync with Francis

Francis, the band driven by new city singersongwriter Alex Wesley, have announced the follow-up to their debut album, It’s Not What It Means To You, It’s What It Meant To Me.

The sophomore release, Sync Your Heart (Not Your iPhone) will be released on July 29 and shows their evolution with a track listing that pulls together indie rock, pop and folk.

They say the release is ‘a testament to the band’s resilience and perseverance during a time of global crisis.’

“We wanted to create an album that felt authentic and real,” said Alex, “A record that spoke to the heart and captured the essence of who we are as a band and as individuals.”

Francis will play Unit Nine on the day the album is cut loose, airing tracks from the new opus, and earlier successes.

> Check in online: listentofrancis.com

Danger! Danger! Cancer Bats and Electric Six are Craufurd bound

You’ve read about Mondo Generator’s date at The Craufurd Arms this month, but they aren’t the only ones stopping by. Cancer Bats (July 1), Prince Daddy & The Hyena with support from Origami Angel (July 4), Electric Six (July 5), Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly (July 6), Hundred Reasons (July 7) and The Skids (July 15) will all make use of the space.

> For tickets and more information visit thecraufurdarms.com

Hidden in plain sight

In Fred Roche Gardens the only thing you usually hear is the twittering from our feathered friends, but not so this July 1 & 2 when Hidden Festival transforms the usually tranquil spot into a buzzy hot spot for DJs and musicians.

Seven thousand people are expected to come together at the family friendly event to tickle their ears with the sounds, and their eyes with street art.

Here’s how the performers line up…

July 1, Main Stage:

Franky Wah

Danny Howard

Route 94

Arielle Free

Sorley

Ammara

Lost on Mars

Hannah Wants

July 1, Stage 2:

Carly Wilford

Sam Girling

Chanel Carmichael

Loz Seka

Hass

Middleground

Samuel Morgan

Harrt

July 2, Main Stage:

Craig Charles

The Real Thing

Shola Ama

Brandon Block

Daisy Belle & Carly Foxx

Hobbs & Ron Mexico

Ashley Kellet, Ben Walker & Richie Long

July 2, Stage 2:

DJ Pied Piper

Nay Nay

MC Kie

Genius Cru featuring MC Fizzy

MC Vapour

Sweet Female Attitude

DJ Sean Harvey

DJ Matt C

DJ Zero

DJ Telfer

DJ MBZ

> Tickets are flying out – try for any stragglers by tapping to thehiddencity.co.uk

Alex Wesley

Del Bromham pic by Lee Scriven

#WhatsOnPulse

African Diaspora Festival

Saturday, July 1

Celebrate Africa’s heritage, culture and food at this sixth annual festival being held in Campbell Park with dance, music, speeches, food and a fashion show.

Heritage and culture: theparkstrust.com

Parks and Run

Sunday, July 2, 10am

Pull on your running shoes and explore the green spaces of Broughton Brook with a choice of two, five or 10km routes. Meet at the car park next to Broughton Fields School. On your marks: theparkstrust.com

Greatest Days

Monday, July 3 – Saturday, July 8

Enjoy the official Take That musical when it arrives for a six day stay at Milton Keynes Theatre in a story of love, loss and laughter –all tied together with TT smashes. Never Forget: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Bluescaster

Tuesday, July 4

A subtle mix of Chicago Blues and an original take on soulful classics with a few originals added in. In tune: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Alan Fletcher –The Doctor Will See You Now

Wednesday, July 5, 7.30pm

Join Alan, aka Karl Kennedy from Ramsey Street, as the actor explains what it’s like being a mainstay in one of the longest-running soap operas in the world. A journey through unforgettable storylines, bloopers and secrets. From Ramsey Street to Wellingborough: parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

Blues Jam Night

Wednesday, July 5, doors at 6.30pm

Just bring your sticks, guitars, basses and mics – backline provided and Blues Club regulars will get things started. It’s free for all, so pop along and play or support those who are. We’re jammin’: bletchleybluesclub.uk

UB40 ft. Ali Campbell

Friday, July 7, 4pm

A special open air performance in the grounds of Delapre Abbey. Street food will be served, and funfair amusements will take attention.

Red Red Wine: eventbrite.co.uk

Stokes & Summers: Careering

Friday, July 7, 8.45pm

A comedy about the quirks and perks of the modern workplace which may contain strong language and adult material –suitable for 12+.

Office oddballs: stables.org

O’Jay City

Saturday, July 8, 8pm

Enjoy a night of classic Motown and Soul hits from Motown, Detroit, Philly Soul and a sprinkling of Northern Soul all from the 60s, 70s and 80s, with this tribute to The O’Jays.

Love Train: thepicturedrome.com

Greatest Days, the official Take That musical hits the stage at MK Theatre from July 3 – July 8

Harry’s Rainbow Colour Run and Fun Day

Saturday, July 8, midday-4pm

A fun run for children of all ages at the large Wolverton Recreation Ground, Woburn Avenue raising funds for the charity - £6 per child and adult. On your marks: Search Harry’s Rainbow on eventbrite.co.uk

Psychic Mind, Body & Soul & Well-Being Fayre

Saturday, July 8, 11.30am-4pm Stalls, mediums, tarot, palmistry readers, healing, crystals and more, at Parklands Community Centre, Devon Way, Northampton

The Northampton Male Voice Choir

Sunday, July 9, 3pm-7pm

Enjoy a picnic in the grounds of Horton House Cricket Club, with music from the leading voice choir. A BBQ, bar and children’s area will also feature. All together: hortonhouse.co.uk or email hello@ hortonhouse.co.uk

Tony Christie 80th Birthday Tour

Wednesday, July 12, 8pm

Celebrate the humble veteran from Yorkshire who became a legendary crooner with a special anniversary tour. Still looking for Amarillo: stables.org

Disability Awareness Day

Friday, July 14

Visit the Milton Keynes Rose in Campbell Park for an inspiring, creative and fun-filled morning.

The full programme will be available online but will include art workshops, tours of the rose, speeches and talks. While there, why not enjoy a picnic in the park? Community togetherness: theparkstrust.com

The Importance of Being Earnest

Milton Keynes Aviation Society

Present our next Lecture events:

11 July

“The Boeing 747Development & Operation”

8th August

“Some RAF ‘Characters’ of the Cold War ”

12 September

“Most Secret – Defford Airfield & Airborne Radar”

Visit www.mkas.co.uk/lectures for full details.

Meetings held at Kents Hill Community Centre, Frithwood Avenue Kents Hill, Milton Keynes MK7 6HQ

Doors open 7.30pm- lecture 8.00pm.

Enquiries to Ian Carr on 01234 742057 Entry is £5.00 for visitors, free for members – annual fee £22.00.

Saturday, July 15, doors 4.30pm, show from 6pm Chapterhouse Theatre presents Oscar Wilde’s finest and best-loved romantic comedy in the magical surroundings of Lamport Hall. Girls never marry the men they flirt with: seetickets.com

Cadillac Kings

Tuesday, July 18

Inspired by early rhythm & blues styles with a distinctly modern take lyric-wise, Cadillac Kings have earned a reputation for wowing audiences from night clubs to festivals, from theatres to dance halls, the length & breadth of the UK & Europe. Joyous house rockin’ R&B: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Johnny Marr

Thursday, July 20

Following the release of his 2022 solo album, Fever Dreams Pts 1-4, former Smiths man Marr visits Northampton Roadmender as part of his tour of the UK. This Charming Man: theroadmender.com

Glenn Hughes

Friday, July 21

One of the true voices of rock returns to The Roadmender to play classic Deep Purple tracks live. Black Night: theroadmender.com

The Place Between

Friday 14 –

Sunday 30 July

Middleton Hall, centre:mk

A vast natural installation made out of dried flowers and other plant materials.

Gratte Ciel: Place des Anges written and directed by Pierrot Bidon and Stéphane Girard

Friday 28 & Saturday 29 July, 9.45pm

Secklow Gate D3 Car Park, near The Point, central Milton Keynes

A beautiful, astonishing and breathtaking spectacle to enchant audiences of all ages.

Barely Methodical Troupe: Bromance

Friday 21 –

Sunday 23 July

The Stables Spiegeltent, Campbell Park, Milton Keynes

An audacious, touching, exhilarating tour-de-force of physical heroics where handshakes become handstands and backslaps become backflips.

Handpicked Productions: The Promise

Saturday 29 –

Sunday 30 July

Great Linford Manor Park Canalside

A new outdoor opera for families based on the celebrated book The Promise.

The Stables Sessions: Acoustic Stage

Friday 21 –Sunday 30 July

Festival Central, Campbell Park, Milton Keynes

Enjoy a drink and listen to some great live, free music.

For all Festival listings, visit ifmiltonkeynes.org

Pic by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA

Birthday celebrations with Tony Christie - July 12

The Smiths Ltd

Friday, July 21, 8pm

If you never got to experience the magic of The Smiths live, this is your opportunity to enjoy the next best thing, with the Manchester-based tribute bringers. Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now: thepicturedrome.com

Paul Sinha & Jo Caulfield

Saturday, July 22

Join the Sinha man in his other ‘job’ delivering the funnies, with the smart and funny Jo Caulfield sharing this Edinburgh preview evening at the Park Inn, Northampton. This Chase ace walked into a bar: seetickets.com

Mondo Generator

Monday, July 24

Fronted by former Queens of the Stone Age bassist Nick Oliveri, Mondo Generator will leave you wired for the week ahead. Simple Exploding Man: thecraufurdarms.com

Summer Holidays at Milton Keynes Museum

Monday, July 24 –

Friday, September 1 (Wed-Sun)

Keep the kids entertained while school is out as MK Museum presents themed days throughout the holidays.

What’s on and when: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Suzi Ruffell: Snappy

Tuesday, July 25

Multi-award nominated comedian Suzi’s new show is all about settling down, becoming a mother and still worrying about everything. Part of this year’s If: Milton Keynes International Festival. Funny times: stables.org

Mondo Generator

Wednesday, July 26

Having played acoustic at The Raven Hotel in Corby late last year, Nick Oliveri’s tour with Mondo Generator calls in at the same venue. So High, So Low: theravenhotel.com

Gratte Ciel: Place des Anges

Friday, July 28 & Saturday, July 29

An aerial show is happening at Secklow Gate D3 car park in CMK (next to The Point) as part of If: Milton Keynes International Festival. The Place of Angels: stables.org

Bite Street

Friday, July 28 – Sunday, July 30

Fill your belly at Northampton’s street food event, which offers fab eats, liquid treats and cool beats at Franklin’s Gardens.

Yummy: eventbrite.co.uk

Him & Me

Friday, July 28, 8pm

Join Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke and 2021 champion Giovanni Pernice for a collaboration of dance, song and lighthearted fun.

Keep dancing: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Towcester Bite Club

Friday, July 28, 5pm

A collection of seven food traders will be serving up good stuff for you at Tove Valley Centre, and dessert will be included. A bar will be serving the wet stuff. All welcome, under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. Something to chew on: wegottickets.com

Race For Life Northampton

Pretty Muddy

Saturday, July 29, 10.30am

Get stuck into a 5k muddy obstacle course. Scramble over the A-frame, crawl through the mid pit and have lots of fun as you go – and you’ll be raising funds for lifesaving research. Everyone can get involved – there’s a Pretty Muddy Kids course too. On your marks: raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org

Race For Life

Sunday, July 30

Women, men and children can choose from 3k, 5k and 10k options at Abington Park in Northampton. Get set: raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org

Summer holiday fun at Milton Keynes Museum - from July 24

Yappety yap - the Woof Walk is back - July 29

New Mayor for the City

Councillor Mick Legg has been elected to the role of Mayor of Milton Keynes by his fellow Councillors for 2023/24 and is looking forward to a busy year promoting the city with his wife, Mandy, the Mayoress.

Hello everyone, for my first article, I am going to tell you a little about who we are and our history with this great city.

I am Mick Legg, Mayor of Milton Keynes and my wife Mandy, is Mayoress. I am both delighted and humbled to have been elected to this role by my colleagues on Milton Keynes City Council.

I am a Labour Councillor representing Bletchley West Ward. I was first elected to Milton Keynes Council in May 1996 and I have been a Councillor ever since. Over the years, I have been a Cabinet Member and chaired various committees, including Planning, Environment, and Licensing & Regulatory Services.

We are both very proud of the city and very passionate about all it has to offer. We love MK and will work hard to fulfil our duties and be a champion for this great city.

Having grown up in Milton Keynes, I have witnessed the diversity and development of the city, its communities, and its landmarks and I was delighted when Milton Keynes was awarded City Status.

We are both a strong advocate of the cando attitude of Milton Keynes, where dreams can become reality when local people work together for the common good.

I have always been active in the local community. I am a former Chair of Governors at Wellsmead First School, now part of Barleyhurst Primary School.

Mandy arrived in this city in 1993 from Derby and is originally from Moreton-in-Marsh in the Cotswolds. Mandy has a professional

background in Community Arts and Children’s Services. She has taken sabbatical leave for the Mayoral Year.

I am going to continue to work full-time and with the help of a supportive employer, MKM Building Supplies, will balance the demands of both roles. Mandy will carry out some engagements solo such as the Citizenship Ceremonies and some daytime events.

We both love the green open spaces of Milton Keynes and spend time exploring them together with our dog, Holly. I also enjoy the green spaces that come with being a keen amateur golfer and runner. Mandy loves open water swimming, enjoying very cold temperatures in the winter months!

This year promises to be a busy one, with the Coronation of the King taking place days before I took over as Mayor. A highlight this month is IF: Milton Keynes International Festival 21-30 July. Milton Keynes will be transformed by live music, theatre, comedy, cabaret, outdoor events and family activities, with over half the events for free! We are also delighted to see the Baton of Hope UK coming to MK on 4 July and England

Lionesses playing Portugal at Stadium MK on July 1, before heading off down under for the World Cup.

The theme of the Mayoral year is health and wellbeing. We will be highlighting the excellent work that the voluntary and charitable sector does, throughout these challenging times and in partnership with other agencies, to make a real difference to ordinary people’s lives.

Our two charities for the year are: Harry’s Rainbow, a child bereavement charity which offers help, support and advice to children and families following the loss of a sibling or parent; and SOFEA, a charity providing education, employability and wellbeing programmes for vulnerable young people. They also tackle food insecurity and the disadvantage it causes while having a positive impact on the environment by reducing food waste.

We are looking forward to meeting different communities to celebrate our rich diversity and all the things that make MK special!

Councillor Mick Legg, Mayor of Milton Keynes mayorsoffice@milton-keynes.gov.uk 01908 253601 mayorMK @mayor_mk

We are both very proud of the city and very passionate about all it has to offer. We love MK and will work hard to fulfil our duties and be a champion for this great city.

Councillor Mick Legg, Mayor of Milton Keynes and his wife Mandy, the Mayoress

Great nights out... just like that!

Whether you want to ‘Take That and party’ or would prefer to get all shook up, there’s a theatre show to help you on your way this month. Pulse’s Sammy Jones has the lowdown for you...

Thirty years have passed since Take That enjoyed their first visit to the top of the UK singles chart, with Pray, and to celebrate the anniversary the musical Greatest Days is out on the road.

Based on the book by award-winning playwright Tim Firth (the ace behind Calendar Girls and Kinky Boots) it’s no coincidence that the tour will also be running at the same time as the movie version hits the big screen.

So to the show itself, which is a heart-warming and hilarious story of love, loss and laughter.

It follows five best pals in the 1990s who are obsessed with their favourite boy band.

Fast forward 20 years and the girls reunite to see their heartthrobs one last time in what could be the Greatest Days of their lives...

Some of you will have seen this show when it stopped by Milton Keynes in the past – back then it was called The Band.

This time around, Kym Marsh will star as Rachel, while Kim’s daughter Emilie Cunliffe appears as Young Rachel.

“I got given the script and it was amazing,” Kym said of her instant attraction to the part, “The story is beautiful and it has a bit of everything really. It’s emotional, it’s inspiring, it’s very funny and I love the characters. Then you add Take That’s amazing music to the mix and what’s not to love, really?

“It’s about a group of friends who fell in love with a boyband back in the day, as we all did,” Kim laughs, “For me, it was New Kids on the Block, that’s how old I am. It’s that thing of having a group of friends who all love the same band. Without giving anything away, there’s a bit of a twist to the story when they’re younger and we get to see what’s happened to them since that time.

“It’s about how the love of a boyband brings them back together.”

Greatest Days will Relight Your Fire from July 3-8, and the word is it’ll be a show you’ll Never Forget. And there, dear readers, we will leave the puns!

If you are an Elvis fan, you’ll get more than you bargain for (July 15) when The Elvis Tribute Artist World Tour stops off with not one, not two, but three impersonators paying homage to The King with a live band and orchestra. Shawn Klush, Victor Trevino Jr and Ben Thompson will be at the microphone. There’ll be a little less conversation and a lot more music at this bash.

The Greatest Hits of Motown air in the show How Sweet It is (July 23), and then Strictly stars Anton & Giovanni present another session of Him & Me (July 28), back on the road for their third year in a row. Take your seats and prepare to enjoy their unrivalled rapport, bringing the audience a collaboration of dance, song and light-hearted fun.

“The show has something for everyone - from children to great grandparents, everyone will love it,” Anton promises, “Big show stopping group numbers, big cast, loads of glitz, loads of

energy, singing, dancing, lights…that’s right up my street.”

Burretti – The Man Who Sewed The World (July 5) is a musical monologue portraying the story of Bletchley’s own Freddie Burretti; David Bowie’s close friend and early ‘70’s Ziggy Stardust costume designer. Caz Tricks will direct this performance at The Stables.

The Very Best of Tommy Cooper (Just Like That!) focuses on Cooper’s legendary comedy act, recapturing his trademark mayhem and misfiring magic. It visits the Wavendon venue on July 6.

Stokes & Summers: Careering (July 7) is a comedy about the quirks and perks of the modern workplace, and there’s more funnies (July 16) with the return of Andy Hamilton who will recall stories from his career in comedy, sharing memories, anecdotes and opinions, from the political to the personal. A Q&A will feature in the second half of the show.

There are a couple of kids at MK Theatre shows this month too – turn to our Hello Summer feature for more details of Pigs Might Fly and Fireman Sam Saves the Circus

> Bookings:

Stokes and Summers

Burretti – The Man Who Sewed The World

The Very Best of Tommy Cooper

Andy Hamilton

Anton & Giovanni present Him & Me

View from the Far Kerb

SUDOKU

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

7 8 1 2 9

1 9 6 4

2 7 4 6

9 2 7 3

5 7 9

Cheeseburgers

Some say that modern life can be summed up by the cheeseburger. It is sometimes quoted as being a food type that exemplifies the level to which our society has plummeted.

However, when you realise that it only came into existence between 1924 and 1934 (depending on whose version of history you want to believe), it does rather undermine the connection between it and the downward spiral of society since the 1960s.

Things get interesting when you dig into how the cheeseburger came about. Although most commentators agree that it came into existence in the US, there are varied claims over who invented it and precisely where in the US it originated. Digging deeper; if slapping cheese into an ordinary hamburger makes a cheeseburger, then looking into the origins of the humble hamburger has to be the next investigative step.

There is a lot more out there on the subject of the hamburger. In fact, there is so much on what are effectively the roots of the cheeseburger that I fear violence could break out over competing claims.

Most sources state that Germany is the place from where the hamburger originated. Many stories go into detail regarding how German immigrants took them to the New World sometime in the 19th century. Some even claim to know how it got its name. One version is that sailors working out of the port of Hamburg took the required ground or shredded beef back with them through their trade

with the Russian Baltic provinces during that same 19th century. A different tale refers to events from the 12th century when cattle were being domesticated in the region of Hamburg. It tells how a dish was developed whereby a patty of beef was sandwiched between two pieces of bread.

There is a lot more out there on the subject of the hamburger. In fact, there is so much on what are effectively the roots of the cheeseburger that I fear violence could break out over competing claims. Without doubt, Mr or Mrs Angry of Pulseland are readying their quills to dash off a missive about how wrong I am about the whole thing. More tech-savvy objectors to the various versions of its creation contained herewith will be firing up their computing devices and writing messages to be sent over the interweb in the form of speedy electronic mail.

But lo! Before putting either a writing implement to paper, or a finger to a keyboard, read this little gem! It is said that the Romans invented the hamburger over 1,500 years ago and they took it to Britain with them as part of their rule over what they called Britannia. From these shores it made its way back to Germany and on from there to the US, via the hinterland of Hamburg. If that little snippet has readers frothing at the mouth and baying for my blood, then the next few lines ought to have the lynch mobs out in force.

There is evidence that domesticated cattle provided beef for early bun-like creations made from flour first used over 8,000 years ago.

It is obviously better to stick to cheeseburgers over hamburgers because at least one can be fairly sure of their origins.

PHIL

6 5

3

3 1

2 6 7 9

1 6 5

QUICK CROSSWORD

Clues Across

1. Snagged (hosiery)

5. Fragrant flower

7. Pierce with knife

8. Comes forth

9. Bakes in oven

12. Encroach

15. Edgy

19. Delicate

21. Illegal

22. New Zealand bird

23. Affluent

24. Giving (prize)

Clues Down

1. Light-ray tools

2. Sums owing

3. Smells strongly

4. Imaginary reptile

5. Library user

6. Make certain

10. Help (criminal)

11. Ticking explosive, ... bomb

12. Climbing vine

13. Brass instrument

14. Atop

15. American wild cat

16. Beat soundly

17. Hat-weaving leaves

18. Tinting

19. 4th Greek letter

20. Annoyed

Your stars

Flavour of the Times - Most astrologers are a bit transfixed by what Pluto, planet of seismic transformational changes, is going to show us as it slips backwards into Capricorn until the autumn, after which it turns round and starts to make its way back towards Aquarius again. ‘Consequences’, ‘chickens coming home to roost’, ‘unravelling’, might all be useful words here. I always said that Pluto in Capricorn was going to be authoritarian and dictatorial and so it has proved, particularly in the political sphere. We are all desperate for changes for the better but until Pluto gets its feet under the table in Aquarius again in the new year 2024, the revolutionary nature of Aquarius is firmly under wraps and we can only surmise how things might turn out. The last time it happened (1778–1798) brought with it sweeping changes in the social order and public rights, including the birth of the Industrial Revolution, the Enlightenment, the publishing of The Vindication of the Rights of Women by Mary Wollstoncraft and of course, the French Revolution. Expect similar!

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

The new moon in your sign in July doesn’t take place until 17th so opportunities for your own progress may be delayed. It could all feel as if you are going over old ground but that’s probably because things dear to you were never completely resolved to your satisfaction. Whether the retrograde Pluto in your opposite sign of Capricorn is a help or a hindrance I am sure you will discover.

LEO

July 24 – August 23

Venus and Mars continue together in your sign for a week at the beginning of this month, making you ‘seductive and seductable’. This could be bit of a lethal combination so either be careful what you wish for or just jump in at the deep end. As ever, there will be consequences of your actions, starting as both planets progress into the less than sexy sign of Virgo. Oh well…

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

You will be tempted to say ‘I told you so’ when people you perceive as a bit crazy and undisciplined come unstuck. Try not to be too self-righteous about all this, though. Your bid to find order in chaos may not end all that successfully either in these times of change and confusion. Stick to areas of your life which you know work for you and you should be ok.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

It is not an easy new moon for you when it is in Cancer, as it is this month. Pluto lurching back into Capricorn is also an apple cart up-turner, so your desire for harmony may be hard to find. It is best to focus on personal practices like yoga and meditation rather than seek help or support from others at this time. Relationships are prone to difficulty so try to see things from the other side.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

The new moon in a water sign like Cancer is workable for you this month. It tends to favour family and close family relationships while Jupiter’s arrival in your opposite sign of Taurus makes steady progress seem achievable. However, Uranus’s capacity to throw the most unexpected events into the air should be respected and watched. Everything has a lesson we can learn from.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22

Not much going on for you this month. The helpful planets in your opposing sign of Gemini probably assisted with holiday plans but things have moved on now and you may be feeling some unwanted restrictions in your life as a result. In fact, I would caution against making any more travel plans for a while. There are things that require your attention closer to home.

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

Yes, it’s about Pluto again. Things may be coming back to haunt you, badly thought-out plans, sketchy ideas, dodgy skeletons may all come out of the cupboard while the planet of transformation in going backwards. You must believe that all this is for the best so that you can more forward on a better footing later in the year.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

You get a chance to review some of the weird and potentially wonderful changes that you have been shown this spring. If you have been a bit traditional in your lifestyle until now, all sorts of alternatives are appearing on your radar now, some of them a bit scary, perhaps, because they threaten to destabilise your comfort zone. Use this time to let things marinade for a while.

You are bound to be affected personally by some if not all of the massive changes that are taking place this year. An astrological reading of your chart can forewarn you about how these changes might affect you. To really understand what they mean for you on a personal level during 2023, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation with me. This is completely specific to you and your life. This will illuminate many things that you may not have considered up to now and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

Saturn settling in your sign is a bit like knitting fog or herding cats – the more structure you try to bring to your life, the less it seems to work and you can easily feel bewildered as things you try to organise seem to fall apart. You should go with the flow when this happens and concentrate on what you can control - does your appearance or style need a makeover?

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

For an action-oriented person, the appearance of Saturn in Pisces gives you an unusual opportunity to dig into a more intuitive side of your personality now. The Cancer new moon is about caring, so why not step outside your comfort zone and reinvent an aspect of your character that seldom gets an airing; you may be surprised by what you discover.

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

Friends and family may feature more strongly this month. The new moon is in its element in Cancer which emphasizes caring and nurturing relationships, and you can do a lot to enhance these in small, but helpful ways. Jupiter also assists this but don’t get too carried away with excessively grandiose ideas. Small is still beautiful and enough is enough.

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

There may be plenty of lively flirting early in the month if you go out socialising and none of it is going to get particularly serious but take time now, as the energy changes to slow down and take care of your inner needs. Self-care is very important and you may not be all that good at it. As they say in those pre-flight briefings: secure your life jacket before you try to help others!

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.

DESIGNED