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Issue 149 | March 2022

The magazine at the heart of Milton Keynes and Bucks

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County-wide news, views and stories

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LOCAL NEWS

CONTENTS

From the

Editor

March 2022

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

he Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival will return to Willen Lake in September, which is exciting news. We are proud to be a supporter of this popular event which usually attracts over 50 companies keen to raise money for their favourite local charities.

It is also exciting to hear that restoration plans for the Almshouses in Great Linford have taken another step forwards as the Parks Trust finalises plans to take on a 999-year lease. As a historic feature of the major restoration project at the Manor Park, the new offices, residential use, and community space will be great additions. A big ‘thank you’ is due to the team at centre:mk that continued to support local charities during the pandemic. Over the past 12 months the charity activities they have hosted raised almost £53,000 which will make a big difference to local people. We are always pleased to see some national recognition for local entrepreneurs so many congratulations to Debbie Greaves whose Barking Bags idea for dog owners has impressed Sara Davies from Dragons Den. Congratulations and best wishes for future success to Debbie and her partner Rob. Theatre fans will already be full of anticipation for the return of Les Misérables to Milton Keynes Theatre from next month. We are very pleased to have two tickets for the opening night on 26 April. Enter the competition to win them by emailing us your answer to a question about the character Jean Valjean. For the ladies in our lives, we have some great ideas to make them feel special for Mother’s Day on the 27th. And if you prefer to make something, why not give our Seville Orange Tart a try? It looks delicious.

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

The deadline for advertising in the next edition of Pulse Magazine is MONDAY FRIDAY 8TH 11THFEBRUARY MARCH Published by MK Pulse Limited MK Pulse cannot take responsibility for the content of the advertisements, editorial or the services provided by the advertisers. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are accurate. All artwork is accepted on condition that permission has been given for use in MK Pulse. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. ©MK Pulse

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

LOCAL NEWS

Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival is coming to Willen Lake for 19th year! Entries now open!

ntries are already coming in following the festival’s launch last month. The Dragon Boat Festival, supported by MK Pulse, its sister title Business MK, MKFM and MK Charities, attracts more than 50 companies annually and for the first time companies can raise money for a charity of their choice. There is a great incentive for teams to raise as much sponsorship as possible as the top fundraisers will win a charity trophy and the sponsorship raised by the participating teams is expected to make a significant contribution to the charities in and around Milton Keynes. New Wave Events executive director Alicja Mierzejewska said: “We are thrilled to be able to carry on the legacy of the festival and we are excited to bring new and fresh ideas in the years to come. Being involved with planning this festival previously, we knew it was and is an important event for the participants, charities, and local community, so we started planning as soon as possible.” Both Alicja and her co-director Lucy Morton worked for the previous organisers of the festival, Gable Events which closed

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during the pandemic. “I am so glad we get to bring this amazing event back to Milton Keynes and the new feature to raise money for any local charity I think will bring more interest and raise vital funds to help so many different charities in the area,” said Lucy. Companies, clubs and organisations from across the region are putting their teams together to take part and represent a mix of new and returning crews but all with the same aim in mind: to enjoy a great day out with colleagues and friends and make a difference in their community. Enhanced Gold and Silver entry packages are available which include marketing benefits such as the company’s logo on each side of a dragon boat as well as a significant donation to the charity of their choice. > For further information and an entry form visit: https://dragonboatevents. co.uk/milton-keynes-dragon-boat-festival/.

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

LOCAL NEWS

The Parks Trust enter agreement with MK Council to take on lease of Almshouses Restoration plans for the Almshouses in Great Linford Manor Park have taken a major step forward.

he Parks Trust has finalised an agreement with Milton Keynes Council to take on a 999-year lease of the building. Built in 1696 the Almshouses are a Grade II* listed building and part of the wider historic landscape of Great Linford Manor Park, which is undergoing a National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery Community Fund project managed by The Parks Trust. Subject to planning, The Parks Trust is looking to restore the building, letting out three Almshouses as office premises and the larger central schoolhouse as a private residential property. It plans to create a community space in the remaining three Almshouses as part of the wider restoration of Great Linford Park. The Almshouses renovation will cost around £1.3 million, funded jointly by The Parks Trust, Milton Keynes Council and a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund. Once planning permission is given, the work is expected to take eight months to complete.

Subject to planning, The Parks Trust is looking to restore the building

Ben Allott, head of property at The Parks Trust, said: “The prominent position of the Almshouses within the historic landscape makes them an ideal location for a new lease of life as a community hub and interpretation space.

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

LOCAL NEWS

Cheers as shopping centre adds up its support for charities

key location donated by centre:mk, raised £13,500 from ticket sales alone. The centre’s multi-storey car park – used by more than one million people each year – has been lit up in six different colours across 48 days to promote different charities and national awareness days. centre:mk also hosted 131 days where charities were active within the shopping centre including: Medical Detection Dogs Training, Christmas decorations display by VICTA for visually impaired children and a catwalk show using older models from Age UK Milton Keynes, for Older People Awareness Day. The Poppy Appeal raised £23,000 with their appeal in 2021 in support of the Royal British Legion. “We felt this year more than any other, it was important that we made it possible to continue to support such a wide range of charities with their fundraising efforts and awareness campaigns, especially given their fundraising opportunities have been hit so hard in recent months,” says centre director Kevin Duffy. “Their fundraising initiatives really engage our guests which is evident in the amounts of money being raised and we are confident that 2022 will bring even more opportunities to support a wide range of charitable causes.”

Staff at centre:mk are celebrating after adding up their efforts to support local charities during the pandemic.

Charity activity in the centre over the past 12 months has raised a total of £52,935

he centre supports more than 70 charities in a typical year but pulled out all the stops to provide a platform for charities to generate awareness and income for their various causes as the pandemic struck. And it has announced that hosted charity

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INTERVIEW

Movement of the people

In 2023 Mótus Dance will celebrate its decade anniversary, marking 10 years of movement in Milton Keynes and beyond. It’s about ‘finding inspiration at every turn,’ they say. But it’s also about mental and physical wellbeing and unlocking the potential in us all, as artistic director Helen Parlor told Pulse’s Sammy Jones.

ance has always been ‘a thing’ for Helen. As a little girl she did as so many do – attending classes and dipping her toes in the familiar jazz and modern forms. “It was just in me and the need to express my body,” she recalled of her early calling, “People don’t really value dance, but it’s imperative to be able to express yourself through your body, and it’s a massive life skill,” she said. Those classes as a wee girl were enough to kickstart a life in movement – and for more than two decades Helen has worked as a contemporary dancer, choreographer, artistic director and rehearsal director. Not surprisingly, she talks with total passion: “There is an energy that you cannot replicate anywhere else and that physical command over your body...then add the physicality of being an athlete, then add emotions and narratives and artistic response. It’s a very rich process.” 12

This stuff isn’t just prancing around as those without knowledge might choose to assume – it really can make the person. “It is extremely good for mental and physical health, and has helped me get over lots of different ailments,” Helen admits, “It engages your body and keeps your mind alive. “It has affected so many different parts of my life; in terms of presenting, being heard or speaking, or having the confidence to do something. It teaches you so many different things. “There is a sense of care in what we do that I see very vacant in other walks of life. People tend not to be so present these days in what they do, and I think that’s quite a dangerous place to be.” It’s also about inclusivity and belonging. “When you are dancing in a company or performing a show, there is a sense of camaraderie and looking after each other, a real sense of being in a team. Like sport, you can’t do it without others.

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

Helen Parlor, artistic director of Mótus Dance

INTERVIEW

“It’s also about empathy, consequence and working together to achieve things you never thought you’d be able to do. People can throw that away as arty farty stuff, but you can change people’s lives in a dance class. I think it was the choreographer Royston Maldoom who said that. When I was 18 or 19 I went over to Germany to do a project with him. He was absolutely right. “It’s not necessarily about making dances, it’s about having that self-belief, that understanding and confidence of self to be able to succeed in whatever walk of life you are. “You take the arts away and you are taking away people’s voices.” Helen is keen that the art form can be accessed by everyone, without exception, and her creative eye was in play at the London 2012 Opening Ceremony of the Paralympic Games when she was the assistant choreographer. She also believes that some schools need to up their game too. “The art of expression for everybody is so important, and I think the fact that arts in schools is sometimes undervalued is a crime. “We are being criminal to our children by not allowing them to express themselves – you are negating somebody’s right to express themselves by not having art in your curriculum for everybody. It might not be for everybody, but there might be something in there for someone.” Certainly Mótus plays its part in redressing the balance – it also operates a youth dance company for secondary age young people, which is subsidised, enabling access to all youngsters regardless of wealth. Mótus was set up by a group of professional dancers who had spied a gap in the market in the new town. With their united vision and a necessary tenacity they have brought great things to the stage. “What do we bring to Milton Keynes? An exceptional dance platform,” Helen says, “We’ve had work that we’ve programmed that has toured internationally, that has gone to the best theatres in the country – including Sadlers Wells, The Place and various Hippodromes. We bring them to Milton Keynes because we want to highlight what dance can be. “There are so many different types of experiences with dance, and there is a craft to it, making it and performing it, and there is a huge skill level. It is imperative that we bring that to MK and that people get to experience that work. “It’s been a journey and hasn’t happened overnight,” she admits, “...but the responses we get have been encouraging, inspiring and uplifting, which makes us want to continue to programme high quality work.” The team behind Mótus welcomes interest from people wanting to join them on their dance journey – there are a wealth of volunteering opportunities.

We are really happy to talk to partners who are interested in collaborating with us, no matter how crazy the idea might seem. Perhaps you want to enjoy the buzz of assisting with their festivals, enjoy social media, or could put your law expertise their way. As with any business, they need all bases covered. Equally, people wanting to collaborate are urged to get in touch too. “We are really happy to talk to partners who are interested in collaborating with us, no matter how crazy the idea might seem. Or they might have a piece of artwork they want to bring alive through movement, or we might have a piece of movement that people want to paint.... “If people are interested in movement and dance, we are very, very happy to talk to them.” And Mótus comes to you - it’s not unusual to see them utilizing some of our many outdoor spaces, and we’ve watched as they have snaked a trail of movement through the Theatre District, and over in Campbell Park, connecting with bystanders who would never have previously considered taking a ticket to a dance performance. And they’ve opened eyes at venues including Milton Keynes Museum and MK Gallery. They don’t just talk about what they do; they show it. “With Milton Keynes being a new developing ‘city’ there is lots of opportunity with the open green spaces.Theatre no longer needs to happen just in the theatre – it can happen anywhere and we have a lot of great spaces in order to programme art.” Mótus is doing something special for our town. It’s unique and should be welcomed. “The whole ideology around Mótus is about something deeper than just steps,” Helen promises, “It is about an art form, engaging with individuals, seeing people, being inspiring and opening up people’s potential...” They are ready if you are.

Upcoming with Mótus: International Dance Day 2022 MK Rose, April 29 & 30, 7.45pm A huge celebration of dance in some of its many forms, with 10 acts per night to showcase the diversity – from contemporary dance to belly dance and parkour. Local schools will also be given a platform and the programme will be set around the spring season – an opportunity to focus on new beginnings and changing times. Mapdance The Venue MK, May 26 Join the University of Chichester’s performance company as they deliver a programme including three newly commissioned dance works. Dynamic, theatrical and beautifully crafted pieces by established and emerging contemporary choreographers. Hofesh Shechter Company presents Contemporary Dance 2.0 The Venue MK, May 28, 7.45pm Combines Shechter’s signature ensemble work with an eclectic sound-score of throbbing beats, pulsating hip hop, folk and Bach to bring club-like euphoria and abandon. For more details and to book tickets, visit motusdance.co.uk To find more about its dance ambassador programme email schools@motusdance.co.uk

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

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The unisex bag is already proving popular with dog owners

A doggie bag to go, please

t’s one of life’s little mysteries; why on earth dog owners go to the trouble of picking up their pooch’s poop only to then toss the bag into the nearest tree. It’s just as bad as leaving the doggie doo behind on your daily walks with Fido, and it’s irresponsible and illegal. And so is leaving it on the ground. How many of us have turned the air blue having put our foot down in a fine mess? But there is a more serious issue – dog waste can prove fatal for cattle, and sheep who ingest it can abort their lambs. If only there was a bag to keep all your doggie paraphernalia in. A one stop shop for all things canine. Actually there is, and Barking Bags has been given the thumbs up by Sara Davies on BBC TV hit Dragons Den. She was so impressed by Debbie Greaves’ idea and pitch that she is ploughing £35K of investment into the nifty accessory. A first time dog owner after retiring from her career in teaching, Debbie was surprised just how many bits and pieces she needed before taking cockapoo Maisie for her trips outside. So she bought a bag from a charity store and fixed it up for use. “One day I was out walking, got talking to someone and my dog pooped. I picked it up and put it in my bag and then I looked at the face of this woman which showed abject horror,” Debbie remembered, “She presumed that I was putting dog waste in my handbag... “Then I wondered how many other people had seen me doing the same thing and thought, ‘She’s the funny woman who picks up dog poo and puts it in her handbag!’” Back at home she relayed the doggy ‘tail’ to partner Rob, and decided to create something emblazoned with paw prints that made it clear what she was up to. 16

“Once I’d made a couple of them, people started asking me about the bags,” Debbie told Pulse, “Then we went to a local dog show at Willen and sold-out. We jumped from selling there, to attending a massive dog show in London called All About Dogs.” That was around six years ago, and building on the continued success, Barking Bags was launched a little under three and a half years ago. How would you appeal to those canine owners who have got by without a doggie bag until now though? “It’s an absolute necessity,” Debbie says, giving the product plug, “It’s got a bag with clips on it for you to attach your own things; a collapsible dog bowl, whistles and stuff like that, and a special pocket for you to put your dog poo bags in, and you can buy one with an extendable side pocket, so you can choose to put your dog waste in. Some people don’t want to do that, and that’s fine too. Maisie posing with her Barking Bag

“Oh, and there is space inside for the treats you might need – we call it a recall treat pocket.” In Debbie’s household the bags have proven more than a helpful aid – Barking Bags keep everything together, meaning those little family arguments are avoided; there is no-one moaning about the missing poop bags or that mysteriously disappearing dog lead! “They are designed to make your life easier,” Debbie promises. The unisex accessory, which also comes in a vegan friendly version, is multifunctional and weatherproof. They are currently made by artisans in India and packaged back here in Milton Keynes; MK Snap, a charity which supports adults with learning difficulties oversees that final stage of manufacture. Barking Bags recently won Best New Business at the Pet Industry Awards, but not content with one win, Debbie and Rob decided to face some of the UK’s most astute business brains when they entered BBC’s Dragons Den. Were they nervous? Not especially! “We had invested a lot of money in the product to make it work, but it wasn’t our baby,” Debbie admitted, “We wanted to succeed, but we went into the den with an open mind, and a thought that if we got the investment it would be great.” And when Sara put that investment on the table? “When she said ‘yes’ it felt amazing, I have to say,” Debbie admitted, “Sara is a supportive dragon; we are dealing with her team and she is giving us advice. It will be interesting to see how it develops...” Go walkies with your fingers – barkingbags.co.uk

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

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

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oVisit our our showroom showroom and see some some of the the latest latest bathroom ranges. ranges. o see 9 x Visit and of 9 x9 bathroom x YOUR DESIGNER BATHROOM Our experienced experienced advisors are on-hand to discuss youryour requirements and give advice. Our advisors are on-hand to discuss Visit our showroom and see some of the latest bathroom ranges. requirements and give advice. arrange Email info@bath-works.co.uk an appointment. w & fit. Bathworks can offer supply only,toormake supply Opening hours: hours: Monday 10am - 4pm Tel: 01908 225535 Opening Monday--Saturday Friday 9.30-5.30pm, Saturdays 10am - 4pm. 42 Alston Drive, Bradwell Abbey, Milton Keynes MK13 9HB www.bath-works.co.uk 196 High Rd, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9EF tel: 020 8504 1765 www.bath-works.co.uk

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

LOCAL NEWS

Cycle group’s fundraising hits top gear for Willen Hospice Pedal power by the Broughton Cycling Group (BCG) has raised more than £3,000 for Willen Hospice.

Book vending machine delights students

new book vending machine is causing much excitement among students at St Paul’s Catholic School in Leadenhall. The machine, funded by the school’s PTA, contains a selection of books that are awarded as prizes for reading competition winners and for Accelerated Reader – a software programme that suggests books based on children’s needs and interests and allows children to gain points from taking online quizzes about the books they have read. Winners of the Library Winter Competition (pictured) were the first students to visit the book vending machine to select their prizes. “Our students have reacted so enthusiastically to the book vending machine,” says headteacher Jo-Anne Hoarty. “It’s a wonderful way to encourage them to engage with reading.” The school is planning to add a second book vending machine to its library soon.

he group chose the hospice as its charity of the year and has held fundraising events over the past 12 months including taking part in the Willen Hospice Sportive, organising their own Pick

‘n’ Mix Sportive, and a festive fancy dress ride in December, sponsored by Franklins Solicitors LLP. Group spokeswoman Ann Shrimpton said: “Supporting a local charity is important to us and we were delighted to support Willen Hospice this year, as not only do they do incredible work but they cared for one of our Ride Leaders in his final weeks.

Broughton Cycling Group nominated Willen Hospice as its charity of the year

“Other BCG members have had loved ones looked after by Willen Hospice as well, so it has a special place in our hearts.” Milton Keynes-based companies Trek, Bathworks, Velomotion, Torquing Gears and Energié Fitness also supported the group’s fundraising. Dawn Clark, Willen Hospice’s challenges fundraiser, said, “We cannot thank the members of BCG and their sponsors enough for raising such a fantastic amount. This could pay for a prescription course for two Willen Hospice nurses, allowing our patients to spend the precious time they have left with their families rather than at appointments.”

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

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

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

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

Jason Thompson, FX-SPRAY MK

Why replace when you can reﬁnish?

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

Suitable for solid wo od and MDF wrapped doors MONEY SAVING

AFTER BEFORE

We can colour match to all major paint brands!

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

FX-SPRAY MK only use specialist products and having the latest spray equipment means the company delivers that brand new factory finish. A colour matching service to all major paint brands gives a huge choice - you can even go with a two-colour scheme. 18

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

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

www.fxﬁnishing.co.uk 14

WE ALSO SPRAY:

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

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

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

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

COMPETITION

Don’t be among the Les Misérables

– enter our competition to win tickets!

Pic: Photo Danny Kaan

he phenomenal success of Les Misérables is back in Milton Keynes this spring, with a four-week stay at Milton Keynes Theatre, and you don’t need to storm the barricades for a ticket if you enter our competition! Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Boubil and Schonberg’s musical has been seen by more than 120 million people worldwide in 52 countries and is undeniably one of the world’s most popular theatre events. This brilliant new staging has scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, and of course it is bursting with brilliant musical moments including I Dreamed A Dream, On My Own and Bring Him Home. Les Misérables is an epic tale of passion and destruction, set against the backdrop of a nation in turmoil. After almost two decades in prison for the crime of stealing a loaf of bread, Jean Valjean has been released. Not long afterwards, he breaks his parole and flees to start a new life free of crime. Eight years later, he has worked hard to give himself a better standing in life. But his embittered parole-officer Javert won’t rest until

he sees Valjean back behind bars. Like her father, Valjean’s beautiful adopted daughter, Cosette, has to fight for what she wants. She falls in love with a student who has joined the burgeoning fight for justice in the streets of Paris. Will the love shared by Cosette and Marius be enough to save him from disaster at the barricade?

MK Pulse has a pair of tickets to give away for the opening night, on Tuesday, April 26. To be in with a chance of winning, simply tell us who starred as Jean Valjean in the 2012 film of Les Misérables? To enter, email your answer together with your name, address and telephone number to mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Title your email: ‘MK Les Mis competition’ The closing date for entries is Thursday, March 31. The winner will be picked at random and notified by Thursday, April 7. Good luck! Terms and Conditions: Prize: One pair of tickets to opening night of Les Misérables on Tuesday 26th April at 7:30pm. - The tickets are valid on Tuesday 26th April at 7:30pm only. - Tickets will be sent via email in advance of the performance. - Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable, non-exchangeable and cannot be re-sold. - No cash alternative will be given.

> Les Misérables will be at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday, April 26 – Saturday, May 21. For ticket bookings and more information visit: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

Ian Huges ‘Thenardier’ and Helen Walsh ‘Madame Thenardier’. Photo Danny Kaan

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

TUE 8th MAR ‘22

SAT 19th MAR ‘22

Price: £25 per person. The largest street market in the Cotswolds with many stalls selling virtually anything, leather goods, purses, books, fish, produce, pet products, clothing, cookware, etc. Market day is every Tuesday on the High Street. Visit this lovely Cotswold town and pick up a bargain! Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 9am and leaves Moreton in Marsh at 3pm.

Price: £35 per adult, £32 per chid 5-16 yrs. Entrance into Thriplow Daffodil Festival included. Walk through the village to see the stunning displays. With now over 100 different varieties on show. 100’s of stalls selling locals goods, check out the blacksmiths at work in the Smithy and be entertained by the merry Morris dancers. Then recharge at Taste of Thriplow for street food and beer or enjoy hot drinks and homemade cake at our Village Tearooms. Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 9am and leaves Thriplow at 4pm.

SUN 13th MAR ‘22

SUN 20th MAR ‘22

Includes three-hour cruise and three course lunch *Please make us aware of any

Price: £40 per person.

Moreton In Marsh - Market Day

Stratford Upon Avon River cruise with Lunch. Price: £60 per person.

Thriplow Daffodil Festival

Creative Craft Show / Sewing for pleasure / Fashion & Embroidery Show

dietary requirements at time of booking*

Enjoy the peace, tranquillity and enchanting views whilst aboard the Restaurant Boat cruising some of the most delightful stretches of the gently flowing River Avon. Once onboard you’ll be served a three-course lunch whilst the Countess of Evesham travels down the River Avon to Luddington (and back). Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 9.30am and leaves Stratford Upon Avon at 3.30pm.

The Creative Craft Show is a haven for knitting, cross stitch, paper crafting, jewellery and dressmaking and stitching enthusiasts, offering all the very latest supplies, ideas and innovations in the hobby world! You’ll find everything from kits, charts and patterns to fabrics, yarns, threads and buttons plus opportunities to glean advice from industry experts. Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 8.30am and leaves Birmingham at 4.30pm.

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

Call 01908 613000 to book or for more information.

Specialists catering for all your car’s needs. All work is carried out by fully qualified technicians including two Mercedes Master Technicians with over 50 years combined experience.

QUALITY SERVICING AT SENSIBLE PRICES Servicing & Repair

Classic Mercedes-Benz Specialists

Performance Vehicles

In accordance with MercedesBenz, we only use Mercedes-Benz genuine parts & all engine oils and fluids used conform to MercedesBenz specification. We have the full Mercedes-Benz Star diagnostic kit with online coding capability and the services carried out will be processed by the Mercedes-Benz digital service book.

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

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

Open: Mon to Fri 8am-5.30pm, Saturday 8am-12pm 1-5 Blundells Road, Bradville Milton Keynes, MK13 7HA

Tel: 01908 222244 Email: info@auto-class.co.uk ww.autoclassgarage.co.uk

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

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

MK Food NEWS Bank LOCAL

Helping those in crisis across Milton Keynes What we do... Emergency food support: 3-day parcels Each standard parcel contains enough long-life, ambient food to last for at least three days. It is nutritionally balanced and designed to make up meals. On request we can also provide kettle packs (which require only hot water to prepare) or packs for specific dietary or religious requirements.

Who we are... MK Food Bank has supported the local community with emergency food parcels since 2004. Relying solely on donations of food and money from the local community, schools, churches, & corporate sponsors, we distributed over 18,500 parcels to Milton Keynes residents in 2021 alone. People call us, or are referred to us for a variety of reasons, with family crises, loss of employment or benefit and debt problems all common. Sometimes people coming out of hospital or prison need immediate practical support, as do those placed in emergency accommodation. Whatever circumstances leave families struggling to keep a roof over their heads, The Food Bank is able to provide short term, crisis support.

A longer-term support approach to food poverty: Top-up shops To provide an alternative to food parcels we created Top-up shops! The top-up shop provides a range of long-life, stock cupboard food and baby products at a very low cost in a marketstyle experience. Customers can purchase any 10 items for £2. The aim is to increase independence and freedom of choice, and ultimately help people to take control of their lives and move, step-by-step, out of financial difficulties. If you need help If you are struggling financially and need urgent help with food, you will need a Food Bank voucher number in order to access a food parcel for yourself and members of your family. If you are supported by a social worker or a health care professional, they may issue you a voucher.

Alternatively, you can call the Food Bank Helpline on 0300 303 4933 or text HELP 07874 964505 to discuss your situation in confidence with experienced staff. We will ask you some questions about your circumstances and can issue you with a voucher number. You can call us up to six times within a rolling 12-month period. The Helpline is open from 9:00 – 15:00, Monday – Friday. We have 10 collection centres across Milton Keynes which are open throughout the week. Full details are on our website. How you can help There are a number of ways that you can support MK Food Bank either by food donations or by fundraising for us. Visit: http:// mkfoodbank.org.uk/how-you-can-help-2/ Donate FOOD - Grab a box and rally your team, your club, your family and friends to collect food for us! A list of what we are running low on is always on our website – right now we desperately need RICE, LONG-LIFE JUICE OR SQUASH AND UHT MILK. Bring your food to our warehouse or to our Supermarket donation points around MK: TESCO: Wolverton and Kingston MORRISONS: CMK and Westcroft SAINSBURY’S: CMK, Shenley Church End and Olney

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

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

BUSINESS

‘A moment I will treasure forever’: BID chief executive receives MBE

elanie Beck, chief executive of the MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District, is pictured receiving her MBE for services to the community from HRH The Prince of Wales. She travelled to Windsor Castle for the ceremony. Ms Beck was awarded the honour for her contribution to the community during the pandemic. It is testament to the vital role the BID plays in Milton Keynes. It receives money from its levy paying businesses based in Central Milton Keynes, which it uses to deliver improvements to the city centre on top of those provided by Milton Keynes Council. Since its creation in 2017, the BID has delivered £5 million of additional improvements to Central Milton Keynes, creating a safer, cleaner, better connected, smarter and more vibrant city centre. In December, 95 per cent of eligible businesses voted in favour of renewing the BID for a further five years. “Being presented my MBE by Prince Charles was an incredible moment and one that I will treasure forever,” said Ms Beck. “I am immensely proud to support and promote Milton Keynes and I am fortunate to work alongside a fantastic team and colleagues from across the city and beyond who share my love for our amazing city and all it has to offer.”

Melanie Beck’s service to the community during the pandemic was recognised in the 2020 Commonwealth Honours List.

Melanie Beck receives her MBE from HRH Prince Charles

READ BY...

BUSINESS OWNERS, Across Northamptonshire, MANAGERS, LEADERS, Milton Keynes, ENTREPRENEURS, DIRECTORS, Bedfordshire,

C-SUITE EXECUTIVES, & DECISION MAKERS.

& Buckinghamshire.

The region’s premier business to business titles, highlighting the brilliant people, companies, talent and opportunities in Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire. Find out more at www.pulsegroupmedia.co.uk or call 01604 259900 or 01908 465488. Keep in the loop and sign up for your free copy every month. Business Times: http://bit.ly/BTNNSIGNUP Business MK: http://bit.ly/BMKSIGNUP

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

BUSINESS

When it’s a race to the bottom, climb to the top. With increased competition in most markets, there’s a danger businesses will decrease prices to compete. But this is the worst thing they can do. Darren Isaac from TFA explains why.

urrent market pressures on businesses are coming from all angles: Rising supply chain costs, increased labour costs due to short supply and rocketing energy bills. This is driving competition in most markets so, when things heat up, you need to think about how you are going to adapt. Believe it or not, cutting your prices to retain or win business is not the answer, you should be increasing them, and here’s why… Leading on price will put your business into a corner I read an article this week about someone in my industry who had, in several years, successfully grown a service business from zero to £3m by providing the cheapest price in the market, outsourcing the work to India and minimising administration. His customers were small businesses who thought the service was generally expensive so, for them, £80 every month was easy to part with. As the market had evolved, clients learned and understood more about the service and were asking for more because what they were getting was what they were paying for. They questioned quality, realised they were wasting £80 per month and it was better to spend more and get a decent return. As a result, his business started to unravel and then spiralled downward. The crucial point here is that, when you lead on the lowest prices, it is extremely difficult to later increase them successfully for the same service. You are peddling cheapness and piling customers high. Customers will generally not accept a price increase and they will look around. It’s time to reassess your model We all know that business is a balancing act. You need to charge enough to cover your costs and make a healthy profit, simple as that. So when market pressures ratchet up, it’s obvious that a go-to is price discounting and special promotions. While this can be very powerful, it has to be utilised sparingly and in the right context. You should never ever, unless as an absolute last resort, cut your prices across the board. When was the last time you heard of anything in this world getting cheaper? Virtually nothing does – it’s called inflation – so the same needs to apply to what you do. Where business owners struggle is that

they cannot see how they can simply increase their prices and they worry about customers going elsewhere. This shouldn’t stop you. What you need to do is the following: 1. Consider which customers are currently making you money and which are not. Decide whether you will be better off losing the ones taking up all your time for little reward so you can concentrate on the ones who spend more with you. 2. Reimagine how you communicate your business proposition and how you package it. Look at how you can make your business look ‘premium’ and your service become a beacon of excellence – how will you start to look and be the very best? 3. Remember there are plenty of customers who prefer to pay more for things on the expectation they will get a better product and/or service. 4. Realise that if you were to increase your pricing by, say, 10% or even 20%, the extra revenue can offset any customers you lose meaning you will be doing less work for the same money. My point here is that you need to evolve and improve your business not slash your prices. For you to charge customers more, you need to look like one of the best and then you need to be one of the best. The experience of your products or services must feel “reassuringly expensive” (to quote Stella Artois). Communicate the value, always. What you need to be looking at to ‘price upwards’ Another thing many business owners are afraid of in more challenging times is spending money. One of the worst things a business can do in a more competitive market is cut spend in the places where investment is critical. To give you two big examples: 1) Cutting spend on marketing and advertising; 2) Trying to buy or deliver what you do more cheaply (cutting costs that erode the customer experience). Both will hinder what you are doing and send your business into eventual decline. They are both kneejerk decisions that are congruent with a race to the bottom and you will suddenly find yourself on that trajectory without even realising.

The main things you need to look at to support a premium positioning strategy are: • Update and refresh your brand image to look premium. – Your logo – Your website – Anything else potential customers may see • Rethink how you talk about and present what you do to customers, down to the very words you use to describe it. Be more ‘Rolls Royce excellence’ and less ‘Toyota hatchback affordable’. • Look at new things you can add to your service that have perceived value to your customers. Start with the quick and simple changes that make a difference, that your competitors don’t do then look at the bigger things later. For example, introduce more customer service follow-ups, ask your customers where the pain points are, do things to address them, show you listen and you care. • Look at who the best in your market is, consider why and then benchmark your business against theirs. What can you do that they are? Like most things in life, in order to become the best you have to learn from and imitate the best. These things do not all happen overnight but lots of small things can. Start yourself on the road to being better and maybe, eventually, being the best. Remember that perception comes first and that this is everything but you must then deliver on the expectation your create. Charging more is easy... feeling worth it is the hard part. To quote Aldo Gucci, “Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten.” If you need help giving your business image and overhaul then get in touch with me at TFA. We help businesses just like yours to completely transform and, more importantly, to grow. Darren.isaac@t-f-a.co.uk 01908 263650 www.t-f-a.co.uk

Darren Isaac is the owner of TFA, a multi-award-winning brand, marketing and creative agency. 56 The Triangle, The Coachworks, Wolverton Park Rd MK12 5FJ www.t-f-a.co.uk | 01908 263650 26

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

LOCAL NEWS

We can solve your marketing puzzle!

Book your marketing consultation today! Scan the code to book a free session now! t: 03303 800 630 w: www.squaremedia.solutions part of

qoob

Making Tax Digital Are you ready?

ince 2019, VAT-registered businesses with a taxable turnover above the VAT threshold (£85,000) have been mandated to keep digital VAT records and send returns to HMRC using Making Tax Digital (MTD) compatible software. From April 2022 these requirements will now apply to all VAT-registered businesses, meaning any business who voluntarily registered under the taxable turnover threshold of £85,000 will be affected.

What is MTD?

There are many reasons we chose to partner with Xero, outside of the Making Tax Digital requirements, including: Being able to keep your invoice records and paperwork stored online, so you no longer need to keep large boxes of paperwork Being user friendly The ability to see how your business is performing in real time Being able to produce sales invoices easily, with the ability to automate your credit control and get paid faster

MTD compatible software There is a large choice of MTD compatible software on the market. In most circumstances we recommend Xero. We have partnered with Xero since 2013 and have helped many clients transfer onto the software, providing set-up and training support.

MTD for VAT Although this has been in place since 2019 for MOST VAT-registered businesses MTD for VAT will be expanded to cover ALL VAT-registered businesses. This will mean more businesses needing to keep digital VAT records and submit VAT returns using MTD-compatible software. Action needs to be taken as soon as possible by those businesses now caught by these regulations from April 2022.

MTD for Income Tax MTD for Income Tax Self-Assessment will apply from April 2024 for unincorporated businesses and landlords with total business or property income above £10,000 per year.

MTD is a key part of the Government’s plans to make it easier for businesses to get their tax right and keep on top of their tax affairs. HMRC’s ambition is to be one of the most digitally advanced tax administrations in the world, modernising the tax system to make it more effective, more efficient, and easier for customers to comply. This means businesses need to keep digital records and use compatible software to send their VAT returns or Income Tax updates (more details to follow) to HMRC. Keeping digital records and providing updates to HMRC directly through MTD compatible software is designed to reduce errors, cost, uncertainty, and worry. This streamlined digital experience integrates tax into day-to-day business record-keeping, so that businesses can view their tax position in-year and be confident that they have got their taxes right.

Summary

Further Information? Have you ever wondered what Xero is and how it could change the way you run your business? This is your chance to find out.

Manage your accounts from anywhere, on any device Manage your cash-flow Invoice customers from any device Take payment directly from your sales invoice via an online payment gateway

Come along to our free seminar to discover the key features of Xero and how it could help run your business finances. We understand the move to online software is a step into the unknown for many businesses, so we’ve set-up a series of events to help provide information about Xero and how to best transition your businesses finances online.

Unlimited user access, with multiple user levels

Visit advaloremgroup.uk/events or scan the QR code below to register and attend one of our “An intro to Xero” seminars.

Sync bank statements automatically with direct bank feeds

For more information about MTD or Xero, please get in touch for a free meeting. Contact us on:

View live reports e.g. profit & loss, balance sheet, age receivables

(e) enquiries@advaloremgroup.uk (w) advaloremgroup.uk (t) 01908 219100

High level security 28

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

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

LOCAL NEWS Aerial shot of the Aylesbury Vale Golf Club

Key Worker Open Day at Aylesbury Vale Golf Club

he Aylesbury Vale Golf Club have found a unique way to say thank you to all those who worked / volunteered during the pandemic. From nurses to cleaners, delivery drivers to foodbanks, vaccination staff to car park assistants - they are hosting a Key Worker Open Day on Friday July 1st 2022 and entry is free of charge to anyone who helped us through the pandemic over the last two years. Make a note of the date in your diaries now, then visit their website

16th hole

Book your place for July 1st

www.avgc.co.uk and click on the link ‘Key Worker 1st July 22’ You will be able to read more information about the day on the website. There has been a waiting list for membership over the last four months but March is the month for new 5-day members to join the golf club. There is still a waiting list for 7-day membership but it is cost free and without obligation to add your name to the list. Give them a call on 01525 240196 or call in at the pro shop. There are no joining fees. Aylesbury Vale Golf Club is much closer to Milton Keynes than the name suggests – it is in between the villages of Stewkley, Soulbury and Wing. The course is in excellent condition and also boasts a driving range, pro-shop and restaurant. The Aylesbury Vale Golf Club Stewkley Road, Wing, LU7 0UJ 01525 240196 www.avgc.co.uk

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

LOCAL HISTORY

Dr Radcliffe's special ‘prescription’ J

Most of us will associate the name Radcliffe with the local school, or the leading hospital. But do you know that they both refer to the same 17th Century Doctor? This is the story of the man John Radcliffe and how his name connects our railway town of Wolverton with the world-renowned city of Oxford...

ohn Radcliffe was born in Wakefield in 1652 – records show that he was baptised on January 23 that same year. His arrival came almost three years after the execution of King Charles I and mere months after the end of the English Civil War. Notable moments in our country's history, but John's success in life ensured that we are still talking about him today too. He was clever, and as a youngster attended Wakefield Grammar School, before swapping Wakefield for Oxford to further his studies. 32

He arrived there as a lad of just 13 years old; young even for those times. University College had strong connections with Yorkshire and his time in Oxford confirmed Radcliffe in his self-confidence and belief in the superiority of those born in that county. While attempting to sum anyone up in a few words is a tricky business, thinking of Radcliffe as a clever, direct-speaking Yorkshire man is probably close to the truth. Radcliffe excelled in many ways and graduated with a BA at 17, going on to

take his MA within two years and then, shortly afterwards, his BA and a Doctorate in medicine. He loved life at college and proved himself well-able to gain the scholarships and positions needed to fund his studies. He became the college's lecturer in logic and then, in philosophy. But, writing in 1986, Anthony Quinton, President of Trinity College in Oxford said: 'It is possible to wonder about the level of professional competence he had managed to attain in these subjects.'

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

LOCAL HISTORY

Indeed, Radcliffe was described as 'an illiterate sot,' by one, and Quinton assessed that while that comment might have been harsh, it did have a grain of truth. 'Radcliffe drank heavily, while earnestly advising his even more alcoholic friends to use a measure of restraint, and was not a great reader,' Quinton wrote. When asked about his library, Radcliffe pointed to some phials, books on herbs and a skeleton. He learned through observation and prescribed using common sense. He was no fan of bleeding his patients and recommended a good diet, exercise and fresh-air. Perhaps he would have done well even today! Radcliffe discovered that he was better rewarded from his practice and in 1684, aged 32, he left Oxford for London, already with a name for successfully treating patients. He took a property in Bow Street, and began seeing patients at a coffee house and at the Bull's Head Inn as was the fashion during those times. His fame spread even more in the capital, and his knowledge was utilised by the top echelons; he found favour as a leading court physician treating aristocracy who called upon his expertise – William of Orange, Queen Mary and Princess Anne of Denmark among them.

The Radcliffe Camera building in Oxford

He was no fan of bleeding his patients and recommended a good diet, exercise and fresh-air. Perhaps he would have done well even today! Radcliffe retained his down-to-earth manner, whether dealing with the King –“Why truly I would not have your two legs (they were horribly swollen, and King William was obviously very ill) for your three kingdoms,” or with his fellow doctors. He valued good banter and when he suggested that that earth had been used to cover up poor work on a pavement, he happily paid his bill, appreciating the retort “Mine is not the only bad work the earth hides.” We can add meanness to a description of his character. He was not liked but that did not seem to bother him. He would treat Whigs, who held opposing political views, but informed them that “they could expect him to kill them off for their opinions”. The wife of a prominent Whig was told that he “attended her to spite her husband, who wished her dead”. Radcliffe was acquainted with and treated many of the rich and famous of his day – Newton, Kneller, Grinlin Gibbons, Robert Harley, and, among them, he did have a few very close friends. He proved popular enough to become the highest paid Doctor of his time. Politics also enthused Radcliffe and he was an MP for Bramber for five years beginning in 1690. But politics didn't retain his interest at that time.

This maquette of John Radcliffe by sculptor Martin Jennings is one of the exhibits at MK Museum

It was only just over a year before he died that his association with Milton Keynes, and Wolverton, in particular, was established – and was due to his reignited passion for politics; he decided to stand again, but this time as MP for Buckingham. To do that, he needed to have an estate that produced a substantial annual income – to be a member of the land-owning class. The Wolverton Estate, owned by Longuevilles, was available at the time, and fitted the bill perfectly. Back then, Buckingham was a 'Corporation Borough' which meant that the only people who could vote were the Mayor, Aldermen and the Councillors, known as the aforementioned Corporation.

As you would expect, the electorate was small – just 13 men would cast votes in favour of staunch Tory Radcliffe, or the Whig candidate, Richard Temple of Stowe. During a lively election, the Whigs wore wool to show their opposition to exporting wool to France, while the Tories wore oak sprigs. Votes were cast by a show of hands and in November 1713, Radcliffe was triumphant against Temple. Radcliffe's fellow Tory was also elected - but only after a dispute as to whether some of the 13 were ineligible because they had not recently taken Holy Communion, proving their allegiance to the Church of England. Radcliffe's tenure as MP for Buckingham would be short, ending just a year later with his death. John died at his home in Surrey, but his remains were taken to Oxford where he rests in the St Mary-the-Virgin church. In life, regardless of where he chose to be situated, his favour for Oxford remained strong and is still evident 300 years later in buildings in the city that carry his name. The importance of the Wolverton connection and its relationship to the buildings in Oxford was seeded by Radcliffe but brought to fruition by the good-judgement and decisions of his friends and those that followed them as Radcliffe Trustees. The Doctor’s will provided relatively small sums to members of his family and his servants. Bequests were made to St Bart’s Hospital in London (for food and bed linen) and to University College, Oxford. Otherwise he had stipulated a sum to be spent on a library and directed that the Trust could make decisions about the remainder. Managing all the properties and finances and accommodating Radcliffe’s wishes was beset with problems, because for some years he had been discussing his wishes with friends - Oxford academics and those that were already involved in developing Oxford, including the architect, Nicholas Hawksmoor. This led to many different opinions about Radcliffe’s intentions, but when it was published it was quite clear that he wished to fund a new library – even specifying where it should be built. His wishes were fulfilled and the library - the Radcliffe Camera – still stands as one of the most significant buildings in Oxford.

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

LOCAL HISTORY

The Trustees then took the decision to build an infirmary. It wasn’t part of Radcliffe’s plans as in his day most hospitals were in London and were places of comfort for the poor, rather than treatment. This all changed during the 18th century when bequests and benefactions founded infirmaries in cities and county towns, but the infirmary wouldn't be officially opened until 1771. Nor was Radcliffe known to have an interest in astronomy but Wren, who had designed the Greenwich Observatory, was the Oxford Professor of Astronomy. Radcliffe also knew Newton, who had consulted him, though Newton was known for preferring to treat himself. Oxford did not wish to be left behind in astronomical research and the energetic Professor of Astronomy was soon lobbying the Trust. It took time, but he was successful and the Observatory was finished around 1779. From one vantage point in Oxford, the visiting eye can take in the Radcliffe Camera, and the John Radcliffe Hospital in the distance, together with his place of burial. It is quite the visual legacy of the man whose posthumous gift changed the skyline of Oxford, and had a positive effect on the lives of countless people who live and work there.

Young visitors to MK Museum can dress up as Dr Radcliffe (above) and explore Wolverton and Oxford's connection

Impressive though those achievements are, they are matched by the management of the Wolverton Estate in ways that furnished the necessary income from the tenant farmers and, at the same time, allowed the building of canals, a railway and the world’s first railway town. Throughout, it seems that the Trustees have shown an understanding and benevolence that encouraged the community and supported its schools and churches. The list of present and past Trustees includes the rich and influential but also those who are less well-known but who brought a dedication and commitment that made it all possible. When it was formed there were few, if any, similar trusts but it became an example for many others. > For more information visit MK Museum or see John Radcliffe and His Trust by Ivor Guest, 1991. 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

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

at Calcutta Brasserie on Sunday 27 March

Show Mum how much you care by treating her to a sumptuous, award winning Indian buffet meal with a

FREE GLASS OF HOUSE WINE in the beautiful surroundings of our 17th Century converted chapel in Stony Stratford. Served from midday to 9.00pm A LA CARTE MENU ALSO AVAILABLE

£14.95 £7.95 PER PERSON UNDER 10s 7 St Paul’s Court, High Street, Stony Stratford, MK11 1LJ

01908 566577 • www.calcuttabrasserie.co.uk

What are your plans for tomorrow? So you probably know where you're going on your holiday this year, maybe you've even booked for next year as well or you're saving up for a big adventure travelling around the world for six months. You may have plans for refreshing your home, a new kitchen or bathroom, maybe some landscaping in the garden or a new summer house. You may have already had thoughts and plans for where you might retire, that iconic move to the country or maybe you've always dreamed of moving abroad or spending your later years hopping on and off cruise liners, navigating the Mediterranean, taking in the sights and sounds. Does this sound like you, dreaming of the days when you can put your feet up? Planning is a big part of life, whatever your age. Hopefully you have already made a will and planned for your loved ones who will still be here when you’ve gone. It’s not morbid to think and plan ahead, for it will happen to us all eventually. It's so important to make those plans and voice those decisions now.

Plan Your Care Now

We are living longer and stronger than ever before. Getting older doesn't mean we have to lose the independence that is so ingrained in us. With a bit of planning, sudden changes in our health need not mean enormous changes to where or how we live. With extra help and a bit of planning, when those times occur, we can be prepared and ready.

It's never too early to think about what kind of care you may choose to have in the future. Some relish the opportunity to move to a care home or sheltered accommodation, but you might want to keep your independence and have additional help in your own home instead. Taking the time now to think about the options and sharing this with your family is so important. It helps your loved ones enormously if they know what you would prefer so don't let it get to a crisis point where decisions are rushed; plan ahead...

Don't shy away from the

Conversation

Make sure your family members know your feelings about staying in your own home. It's staggering to think that a third of adults are concerned about the physical health of their parents but yet 81% are reluctant to start a conversation about care (Home Instead survey of 1,500 adults). Don't wait for someone else, talk about it now. When did talking about care become such a taboo subject, we are all going to need some sort of care so make plans now!

For help supporting you and your family starting these conversations call 01908 774333 or email sarah.marquiss@miltonkeynes.homeinstead.co.uk www.homeinstead.co.uk/miltonkeynes

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

See It. Try It. Live It. Bespoke retirement living in the heart of the shires... SEE IT The Hawthorns adjoins open fields yet is close to amenities such as shops, restaurants, a leisure complex with a pool and excellent transport links. With spacious studios, 1-bed, and 2-bed apartments, all with kitchenettes, en-suite shower and flat-screen TV, it’s a safe and secure community with round-the-clock management and call system. On-site facilities include a library, clubhouse, short mat indoor bowling, cinema room, hair salon, and therapy room. An established and expert rental retirement operator in the UK, having first opened a service some 25 years ago, The Hawthorns maintains a unique and market-leading approach to retirement living. Instead of purchasing, the all-inclusive rental model avoids hidden costs such as ground rent, service charges, and maintenance alongside costly ‘exit’ fees. TRY IT The welcoming Hawthorns in Northampton, recipients of the prestigious Hospitality Assured award for its first-class services, provides quality independent living for the over 70’s retirement community. The all-inclusive rental model offers clarity, easy planning, and flexibility, and you can sample the lifestyle with a trial stay offer. There are no charges for property repairs, gardening costs, utility bills, council tax, internet charges, weekly housekeeping and bedlinen laundry, or transport costs on days out in the private minibus. There are three high-quality restaurant meals a day, hot and cold refreshments throughout each day, plus a full calendar of events, exercise classes, day trips and activities to support your well-being. LIVE IT “There comes a time in your life when changes in lifestyle and circumstances enforce a change of direction. I spent one-month sampling the lifestyle at The Hawthorns with little expectation that this would be my choice for the future, but I was completely converted by the end of that time.

‘The surroundings inside and out are exceptional’

“The management and staff cannot do enough to make this a great experience – the entertainment and activities, menus, housekeeping, and maintenance all contribute to luxury living. There is always a member of staff to advise or assist with absolutely anything. The surroundings inside and out are exceptional. “Perhaps the greatest benefits are having my independence and the freedom to live my life the way that I wish but having support and friendship at hand. So many pressures and cares have been lifted.” - Barbara Brown, the Hawthorns Northampton resident.

>> Call 01604 553639 today to request a free information pack or visit hawthornsretirement.co.uk

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

PULSE PICS Blooms, stage stars and rock stars, and Boris Johnson. Here’s this month’s Pulse Pics... Milton Keynes actress and singer Natalie Kassanga wowed on the MK Theatre stage with a starring role in Dreamgirls, playing the role of Deena Jones. She was following in fine footsteps too; in the film version Deena was played by Beyoncé.

Pic: MK Theatre

It’s a busy time in politics, but Prime Minister Boris Johnson still managed a recent visit to MKUH for a tour of the hospital, and to learn more about the robotics technology being trialled at the site.

Pic: Andrew Parsons / No 10 Downing Street Pic: Steve Hill

Cregan & Co. returned to The Stables at Wavendon to promote their new album, Spreading Rumours, and the band were met by an enthusiastic audience, including Jim Cregan’s longtime music collaborator, Rod Stewart.

We stay with The Stables, which also hosted a performance from Madness frontman Suggs, who brought his show A Life in the Realm of Madness to town earlier this month. Another familiar face was in the house for that date – ‘Modfather’ Paul Weller was spied in the audience. Pic: Knitting Nana

Pic: Penny Lancaster / @thatjimcregan Pic: John Owden

Spring is edging closer, although you don’t need to wait for encouraging signs. These snowdrops were pictured in Campbell Park, welcoming walkers with their beautifully delicate flowers. Warmer times are coming! 38

Earlier this month, Her Majesty the Queen became the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee – marking 70 decades of service. In Newport Pagnell, the mysterious – and ridiculously talented – Knitting Nana produced a wonderfully woolly tribute. She also celebrated the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch by making a whole host of chirpy types.

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

LOCAL NEWS

S E E I T. T R Y I T. LIVE IT Live safe and well in a luxury studio, 1-bed or 2-bed apartment at the Hawthorns Northampton, a warm and friendly all-inclusive rental retirement community for the over 70s. • Includes quality dining three times daily, housekeeping, property upkeep, and utility bills • Full calendar of events, exercise classes, day trips and activities • Cinema, library, hair salon, therapy room and short mat indoor bowling • Staff on hand 24/7

Call today to request a free information pack 01604 553639 | hawthornsretirement.co.uk

FASHION By Cindy LGH @CindyLGH

Oliver Bonas £42.50

Motor into MARCH >> E ngines at the ready, for springing into March with style you can hit the ground running with. Yes, SS22’s here and full of easy wardrobe wins: denim anything, and leather jackets that you surely already have in your wardrobe...

The hero piece this season? Biker jackets of any shape, seen everywhere from Balenciaga to Simone Rocha. At Christian Dior, super shiny vinyl jackets were worn with matching mini skirts; at Dolce & Gabbana they were paired with chains and lace. At Alexander McQueen, heavy duty looks layered leather and denim - making perfect transitional outfits for keeping pace with the changing weather.

Zara £45.99

The best way to wear the classic denim and leather pieces already in your possession, is with a touch of ‘90’s attitude. Think slip dresses, baguette bags, Kate Moss, one shoulder tops and cutouts. And if you can sneak in a little tie dye, you’ll be winning. Zara £27.99

Zara £45.99

Model wears Kin @ John Lewis New Look £27.99 New Look £15.99

H&M £79.99

H&M £25.99 George @ Asda - £25

Zara £29.99 M&S £35 Zara £27.99

John Lewis £229

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

Stand out from the crowd and make an impression with a made to measure suit, made just for you. All occasions catered for: Weddings | Business | Events 10 years at St Crispin Retail Village 01604 589907 | instagram.com/saintcrispin_bespoke | enquiries@saintcrispin.co.uk | saintcrispin.co.uk Saint Crispin Retail Village | 22 Kent Road | Northampton NN5 4DR For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | March 2022

BEAUTY

To Mum, with love xx

Mother’s Day falls on March 27 this year, a time to say ‘thank you’ for all she does. How better to show her you care than with a ‘beauty-ful’ gift? Here are some of our favourites... Freshly Cosmetics have a duo of deliciously fragranced goodies to help skin feel fine all year long. Smooth things out with Golden Radiance Body Oil and Hyaluronic Energy Body Serum, which are formulated with naturally derived ingredients to help firm and hydrate. This power-packed partnership can help with cellulite, scars, stretch marks and varicose veins. Perfect for clearing up dreary, damaged skin.

Whenever there is an occasion for a gift, Lush has got your back – and their Happy Mother’s Day gift is a goodie that Mum will love. Beautifully dressed in a bright floral knot wrap, it brings together a selection of exclusive bathing, shower and body care products from the Mother’s Day range. Little things can mean a lot too, and the Elephant in the Tea Room bath bomb guarantees to give her a bonkers afternoon tea party in her tub. A chance for your ma to steep herself in Sencha tea, fragrant bergamot and a dash of soya milk! RRP: £50 (gift set), £6 (bath bomb) Get it: lush.com/uk/en

When it comes to gift sets for Mother’s Day, Origins have got it all wrapped up, with a range including a Mask Set, GinZing Set and Mega Mushroom Set, and this beautiful Plantscription collection. The recipient will get a Multi-Powered Youth Serum, which does great things; tackling those frustrating lines and increasing the appearance of firm skin. The collection also includes a Powerful Lifting Cream and an Anti-Ageing Power Eye Cream, which uses Chamomile and Algae in its hydrating formula to battle puffiness and crow’s feet. The only ‘problem’ with this gift? You’ll want to buy yourself one too!

RRP: £48

Get it: freshlycosmetics.com/en

Like ginger? Then you’ll adore this. Origins Ginger Souffle is a whipped body cream to invigorate the skin and senses – it is beautifully luxurious and makes a perfect gift, for Mothering Sunday or any day. Tangy and terrific, this will caress and care during those essential pampering times. ‘There’s no more savoury way to shoo your malaise,’ says the brand.

If Mum loves her make-up, the OPV Beauty Illuminator could well be the best friend she hasn’t yet met! This compact little beauty will add a subtle shimmer to any makeup look, and with six shades available there is a colour for everyone. It’s a great way to banish dull skin in favour of a healthy radiance.

RRP: £36

Get it: John Lewis and origins.co.uk

RRP: £35

Get it: opvbeauty.com

Don’t give her a scent-sational day, give mum a fragrant year by buying her a scentaddict subscription; each month she will receive a fragrance of her choice from more than 500 of the most popular brands. The 8ml travel size product is filled with a 30day supply, together with a £12 voucher to spend on a full-size fragrance, should she choose to splash out. Say it with a spray! RRP: £12 per month

Get it: thefragranceshop.co.uk

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

RRP: £75

Get it: Available at stores nationwide

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FOOD & DRINK LOCAL NEWS

Seville orange tart A citrus-sweet no-cook pud. Serve up a slice (or two) for afternoon tea or dessert.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

180ml double cream

1. Put the double cream and condensed milk in a large mixing bowl. Add the very finely grated zest, all the orange juice and all the lime juice. Use a hand whisk to whisk the mixture together for 2 minutes until slightly thick.

180g condensed milk 2 Cooks’ Ingredients Marmalade Oranges, very finely grated zest of 1½, pared zest strands of half, plus 100ml juice (top up with regular orange juice if needed) 3 tbsp lime juice (from 1-2 limes)

2. Pour the mixture into the pastry case, then scatter with the remaining pared zest. Cover and chill for at least 3 hours before serving, until the filling has set. Use any extra cream to drizzle over, if liked.

215g Cooks’ Ingredients Sweet Pastry Case Preparation time: 20 minutes plus chilling Serves: 8 44

Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose. Recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

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

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

FOOD & DRINK LOCAL NEWS

The word t ee r t s e h t n o Milton Keynes has a thriving street food scene and Pulse's foodie expert Emma Norris has been checking out just a handful of them.

Jo’s Cakes

The incredibly talented Jo set up her first cake business at 17, selling cupcakes in town markets and craft fairs. After various life events (including moving countries, getting married and having children) the business was put on the back burner. But, in Belgium in 2018, as Jo’s boys’ birthday cakes were getting more elaborate, Jo’s Cake Co. was founded. Jo moved back to the UK in 2019 and began baking for food festivals and summer events. Soon the loaded cookies, cake slabs, cookie cups, cookie dough swiss rolls and edible cookie dough (among other delights) became popular and Jo’s business really took off. Jo’s Cake Company is, in my opinion, one of the best places (if not the best place) for sweet treats in the local area and most definitely trumps any of the pop-up chain dessert restaurants Milton Keynes has seen so many of recently. My personal favourite bake is ANYTHING involving Biscoff – especially the Biscoff and Gold cookie dough bar, Biscoff stuffed slab and Biscoff cookie dough swiss roll. 46

Look out for the new shop opening in Stony Stratford - another delicious venture from @ joscakeco and her husband who owns @ greatgelato (and incidentally also provides the best gelato I’ve had in the UK!) Instagram: @joscakeco

Good Times Café

Good Times Café serve up an array of cheese-based products and a vast selection of ‘the usual’ hot drinks and local treats. Specialising in gourmet grilled cheese, barista coffee and home bakes, delicious creations are all served from their retro pistachio-green, classic Citroen HY Van. I have been lucky enough to eat plenty of the offerings from Good Times Café. At the Olney Great Taste Food and Drink Fair, I opted for their ‘Special Grilled Cheese’ – a toastie filled with roast beef, meat gravy, caramelised onions, horseradish cream and the café’s signature cheese blend, served with a dill pickle which was, I think, the best dish I’ve tried from there so far! At MK Eat in Autumn

From left to right: Tempting Cookie Dough from Jo's Cakes, mouth-watering Raclette from Good Times and a Norris family favourite, Bratwurst from Sizzlers

I enjoyed their Raclette – mountains of gooey cheese grilled and then dolloped on top of garlic and herb potatoes, served with cornichons and pickled red onions. At Christmastime, for Newport Pagnell Festive Street Food and Farmer’s Market, I tried their Black Forest hot chocolate which was so rich with sweet cherry and also thoroughly enjoyed the sweet ham hock and tangy mustard toastie. Instagram: @goodtimesuk

Sizzlers

Sizzlers is my brother’s firm favourite from this list – their signature black van serves up burgers unlike any you’ve had before. Sizzlers’ Steak burgers are made from 100% locallysourced prime British chuck and brisket beef. In fact my Mum (who is not a burger lover and perhaps could even be labelled a burger hater) states that these are the best burgers she’s ever eaten. Each patty is hand-smashed, grilled to order, served with salad and on freshly toasted brioche buns. As a huge lover of spice, I thoroughly enjoyed my ‘Highway to Hell’ burger at MK Eat – Sizzlers’ signature beef patty sandwiched with bacon, hot sauce, cheese and their own ‘Highway to Hellapeño’ – spicy jalapeño relish. At Newport Pagnell Festive Street Food and Farmer’s Market, I tried their ‘Festive’ option – a smoked German sausage with herby diced potatoes, crispy onions, mustard and ketchup. Although it was delicious, in my view nothing will ever beat their burgers! Instagram: @sizzlers2005

Newport Pagnell Food Truck Friday Don't miss this tasty event held on the 3rd Friday of every month at 5-9 Queens Avenue Car Park. You will see most of the traders mentioned in Emma's article at some point between March and October. The event raises funds for Newport Pagnell Fireworks display so have your fill and help a good cause!

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

FOOD & DRINK LOCAL NEWS

Baja Cantina was a vision founded on the owners’ love for surf, sunshine and (above all) tacos! Served in 2 eye-catching vans ‘Eddie’ and ‘Gordo,’ the company specialises in Mexican-inspired street food. Baja Cantina was the winner of MK Food Awards ‘Best Street Food – 2021’ and for good reason: they are firm favourites of mine and I always have to drop by for something from the menu, even when I’m stuffed from grazing elsewhere! The Tacovan offers up quite an extensive menu including other regular Mexican-style dishes like nachos, quesadillas and burrito bowls with great vegetarian and vegan options. I tried my all-time favourite dish for the very first time at MK Eat’s Autumn festival – Baja Cantina’s Birria Tacos were on special – and trust me, they are just as special as they say! Two crispy tortillas stuffed with beef and all the typical trimmings, served with a rich, salty beef broth dipping sauce for dunking your tacos in. In fact my family and I often purchase these the day before and crisp them up in the oven the next day for easy at-home breakfast tacos – simply insane! Instagram: @cantina_baja

@BucksStarBeer

The Rub BBQ

The Rub BBQ was founded due to the owner’s love for wood-smoked meats (especially ribs) and authentic Americaninspired BBQ sauces. The inspiration he took from Stateside led him to create his own BBQ dry rub and so ‘The Rub BBQ’ was born! All The Rub’s rubs (!), marinades and sauces are made from scratch; the ingredients are often wood-smoked to create their own unique depth of flavour and are locally sourced, where possible. I have tasted many of the delights from The Rub BBQ but my top two dishes so far have to be ‘The Rib Tickler’ – half a rack of British pork babyback ribs, smoked over hickorywood and finished with a sweet and smoky BBQ glaze, served with pineapple salsa and ‘slaw, and ‘The Drunken Dog’ – a jumbo 140g British pork sausage, smoked over beechwood and served with beer-braised onions and homemade sauces. You can choose between mango scotch-bonnet, screaming reaper (my favourite), sweet barbecue, smoked garlic mayo or smoked chipotle mayo. Trust me – this is BBQ done right! Don’t think for one minute that this list is finite – there are plenty of other independent street food sellers that I simply cannot wait to explore this year in and around the

Star

Now taking registrations

Baja Cantina

Inset left: A taste of Mexico from Baja Cantina Birria and above: Ribs and Hot Dog from The Rub

Milton Keynes area too. For the most regular upcoming events, follow @eatst_mk and, for more information on finding the location of these indie sellers regularly, follow them on social media. Instagram: @therub_bbq > If you would like your restaurant reviewed get in touch mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmaroseeats

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

CLIMATE CHANGE

The most important thing you can do to fight

e g n a h C e t a m i l C

arly last year the UN Development Programme (UNDP) conducted the biggest ever opinion poll on climate change, questioning 1.2 million people in 50 countries. That survey showed that two thirds of people believe it is a global emergency and support urgent climate action. And contrary to the myth of there being a generational battle on this issue, the research also showed that there is almost no difference in views between generations on the importance of climate action. So, we can see that this is clearly a topic a lot of people care about. Arguably, it also gives a clear mandate to politicians to do what is needed for “emergency” action. Any yet, even with such concern and calls to halt all domestic fossil fuel extraction, we are still seeing the UK Government (and others across the world) supporting the oil and gas industry, and putting profits before planet.

So what can we do? People often ask what is the single most important thing they can do to bring about climate action. The answer is simple but, admittedly, can also be difficult at times: Talk about climate change and its solutions with people a lot more than you are doing now.

Climate silence exists Studies suggest that even people who care about climate change, shy away from discussing it. The ironic reason why is because they don’t often hear people talking about it. It’s a vicious, reinforcing circle.

The winning message is about morality Shifting opinion, and changing the conversation, isn’t easy. But one winning strategy we have seen is how Pope Francis influenced wide-spread change on people’s views of the climate crisis issue by presenting 48

Start talking about climate change and why this moral issue matters to you, and the actions you’re taking to help combat it. climate action as a moral imperative. His message helped people to realise that global warming is something we should all be concerned about that will severely harm people and nature, wherever we live. But he also raised awareness of the fact that human-induced climate change is an issue of morality and social fairness in this “our common home”. It is morally wrong for one group of humans to knowingly harm others – in this case, those of future generations and of high carbon emitters endangering those caught in climate-driven superstorms, floods, fires, droughts, and conflicts. And let’s not forget the greatest moral wrong of the human-induced climate crisis: the mass extinction event we have triggered to harm all life on Earth.

who don’t support it. But, before, during and after you do those things, to help change the climate conversation, you need to help start it.

Talk to us. Talk to everyone! Start talking about climate change and why this moral issue matters to you, and the actions you’re taking to help combat it. Talk to family, friends, acquaintances, and your local MP. And if you want a friendly, kind ear to start the conversation with, come and join our conversation about it at Transition Town MK.

Change the climate conversation Yes, it is important to take action to reduce your carbon footprint. And it’s vital that you vote for what you value by supporting climate action candidates over those

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

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

MK WALKING FESTIVAL F R I D AY 1 3 M AY - S UNDAY 1 5 MAY 2 0 2 2 Milton Keynes Walking Festival returns for 2022 with a variety of walks to choose from located across the city. The three day festival is an excellent opportunity to discover the green spaces right on your doorstep!

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

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

HOME & GARDEN

Stop your house leaking money, when the new energy price caps hit. With energy price caps set to rise a further 45% from 1st April, there has never been a better time for homeowners to make the switch to double or triple glazing.

to the current crisis, switching to a cheaper gas and energy company is not an option. Therefore, it is essential to address alternative options to better improve your home’s thermal efficiency to prevent heat escaping and keep bills in check. By switching from older-style, noncoated glazing to highly energy efficient comfort glazing options, your home can benefit from over 50% improved energy efficiency, enhanced security, up to 20% reduction in noise and a reduction in overheating by up to 50%, keeping your home warm and pockets full!

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>> T&K Home Improvements is a family-run business that provides quality windows, doors and conservatories since 1979 in Northamptonshire and surrounding areas. To find out more on high performance energy efficient glazing options and how much you can save, visit www.tkhi.co.uk.

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

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

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HOMELOCAL & GARDEN NEWS

Why should you install a

garden room? Garden Rooms are the latest and most popular trend when it comes to home improvements. Whatever design, shape and size you require, garden rooms can be created to suit any property and come with a wide range of benefits.

omeworking is now a real option for thousands of people as businesses see the benefits it can bring in terms of staff productivity and business resilience. With space in our homes at a premium, increasing numbers of new homeworkers are having garden rooms installed. These adaptable garden buildings not only make perfect home offices, but they also can also be used as music rooms, home cinemas, teenage crash pads, guest bedrooms, in fact pretty much any purpose at all. If your family is growing and you’re feeling the squeeze in your current home, or you’re making a permanent shift towards homeworking or home-schooling, or perhaps you’d like to set up your own home gym, then a garden room might be the answer. There are a multitude of reasons and benefits of installing a garden room. Let’s look at just a few.

Garden rooms are versatile additions which provide space that would otherwise be impossible to achieve through traditional property extensions. Extra Space With house prices skyrocketing, space is quickly becoming a luxury many struggle to afford, which is why a garden room is a perfect solution. Garden rooms are versatile additions which provide space that would otherwise be impossible to achieve through traditional property extensions. Whether you are looking to create a luxury retreat for you to escape to in your garden, space for you to indulge in your hobby or simply need a contemporary storage solution, a garden room is the answer. Plus, it is a perfect solution for those looking to create an extra annexe living space for visiting relatives and friends or elderly family. Less Expensive Traditionally, expanding your home would means months, even years, of planning and expenditure when you account for the planning permission, surveying and construction - the list goes on. Garden rooms take the stress, time and most importantly the cost, out of expanding your home with a range of designs available to suit your budget. A Space to Relax and Unwind We’re all searching for a place to get away to when daily life becomes too much and sometimes coming home and finding a space for you just isn’t possible – particularly in a family home! A garden room is a space you can create entirely for yourself, whether that be as a home office, a calm space to practice mindfulness or any space you can think of to create harmony in your life and home. All-year-round use The days of the icy winter garden building are long gone. High-spec insulation means that your garden room remains comfortable to use, even when the temperature is below zero. Much more affordable than the alternatives, and much less disruptive to install, garden rooms are considerably cheaper than loft extensions or conservatories or side extensions. They make extra space more affordable and convenient.

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The Perfect Solution If you are running out of space in your home, then a garden room is the perfect choice. Quality, sustainably sourced materials, and stylish design mean garden rooms provide high levels of function with aesthetic appeal. Much less costly than disruptive building work, your garden room can be installed within weeks of placing your order. In addition, as they are so easy to customise, your garden room can be made completely bespoke. More and more people are discovering that a garden room is an easy way to extend their living space, so what are you waiting for? Whether you are looking for a space to relax and entertain guests, create a home office, gym or guest suite, a garden room is the perfect space solution. If you are interested in discovering more about how a garden room could benefit your home, don’t hesitate to contact your local garden room specialists Elegant Garden Rooms on 0800 6696537 or visit the Brand New garden room showroom at 5 Deeping Road, Stonebridge, Milton Keynes. MK13 0BE.

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

HOME & GARDEN

DIGGING DEEP

Gardening with Pulse

ven if you only have a small outdoor space, the introduction of veggies can still prove positive, and you can get busy in March; parsnips and broad beans will work well, for example, but beware of any particularly cold snaps which will prove damaging. It’s best to let the weather guide you, and only sow seeds if the conditions are right. Your seed packets will provide all you need to know about when and how to plant to optimise success and remember that soil differences can affect growth tremendously; lighter soil warms sooner than damp, ‘heavy’ soil. If your seeds will suffer in the chill, hold off for a while longer. If the environment is suitable, there is much that can occupy your time – from beetroot to radishes, leeks, peas and spinach, and there is nothing quite like a homegrown onion or carrot to make you appreciate their real taste sensation! When deciding to grow your own onions, you’ll have the choice between seed or set. A set is an immature, partially grown bulb that is ready for replanting, which will deliver an earlier crop, whereas if you choose seeds, they should be started indoors before being transferred to your outside plot. Provided they are planted correctly (four to five inches apart and no deeper than one inch beneath the soil), and remain free from pests and weeds, your onions should be ready to harvest after three to four months. Carrots take anywhere between two to three months to grow, and once tasted, you’ll never want supermarket produce again! The satisfaction of enjoying a plate piled with homegrown vegetables is one of life’s little pleasures, and it’s a great way to get children outdoors, learning about where their food comes from.

Top Tip... The time is approaching when you should retrieve the mower from the garden shed in anticipation of giving the lawn its first haircut of the year. On average, grass should be cut weekly from mid-March, but hold off if the soil is soft and squelchy or if it is frosty, or one is forecast. Mowing wet or frosty grass will damage the turf and play havoc with your plans to achieve a perfectly green and even lawn this summer! 54

How does your garden grow?

T Once you’ve tasted your own home grown veg’ you’ll never look back

It also teaches responsibility; failure to care for their seedlings means they won’t flourish, so little minds will soon learn that they need to look after the seeds. It’s a fact that children who grow their own food are more likely to eat the healthy stuff – and they can learn about food preparation too, from sowing to harvest to the plate. Spending time gardening with youngsters gets them away from screens and into the fresh air and teaches them about nature and seasons and insects. And by encouraging youngsters to eat better, it helps sow the seeds for a happy, healthy life. And that is invaluable.

he moon affects all things watery; the ebb and flow of tides, the sap in plants, and us, as we are 55 – 57% water. When the moon moves from new to full, the energy of the earth is pulled upwards towards it and from full Moon to new Moon, the pull is reversed and energy flows back to the earth. It makes sense for the gardener to help plants to grow by working with the four quarters of the moon. When the moon is half lit on the right (A), it is called the first quarter, but when full (B), it is the second quarter. When half lit on the left (C), it is called the third quarter and unlit (D), the moon is in the fourth quarter. Simply put, when energy is flowing towards the moon (A&B), plant things that grow on the top of soil like lettuce, corn and tomatoes, but when the energy is flowing back into the ground (C&D), plant root vegetables – things like potatoes, carrots and onions. If you want to try this method, a wealth of information is available online. The Rhythm of Nature website has an easy to understand, day by day calendar, for sowing and planting: uk.rhythmofnature.net/gardener-calendar Carol Smith and Jan Taylor from BGC.

> The next Bletchley Garden Club (BGC) meeting is on March 8 at 7.45pm at Freeman Memorial Methodist Church Hall, Buckingham Road, MK3 5HH. The AGM will be followed by a Gardeners’ Question Time, when the group will share successes! New members welcome. For details visit bletchleygardenclub.org On Saturday, March 26, there is a plant sale and seed swap, with hot drinks and cakes, at Eaton Avenue Allotments from 2-4pm. The entrance is next to number 30 Eaton Avenue, directly opposite the bottom of Leon Avenue, MK2 2HN.

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

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

HOME & GARDEN

Are you fed up with clutter? Access4Lofts give you the space to clear your clutter, in an easy and affordable way.

or 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 says 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 is 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. 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.

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“With space at such a premium, it makes sense to make the most of your loft.” Kelvin Lee, Access4Lofts Milton Keynes

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

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Marshmallow

f you think choosing a white paint for your room will be easy, think again! With over 900 shades of white to select from, you may well find the task a bit daunting. White is a timeless option that provides a fresh blank canvas, against which you can showcase all your art, accessories and furniture, so it’s well worth putting in the effort to get the tone right. You are not alone if you’ve previously looked at a white room and thought how unimaginative and effortless the design is; but to get a white room right it will have been incredibly well curated, with much time and effort employed to keep the space from looking clinical and stark. One of my favourite white paints is Marshmallow. Marshmallow provides a sense of serenity and relaxation. As the importance of wellbeing becomes increasingly significant in our lives, this hue is ideal for bringing a tranquil and calm feeling into your home. Sanderson has a particular paint called ‘Marshmallow Snow’. It is a creamy soft neutral that will uplift and brighten your scheme, but do not confuse it with Wilko’s Marshmallow Silk which is pretty in pink and far from the neutral base recommended here.

Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262 www.millsandkinsella.com 58

www.victorycolours.co.uk

appear crisper and cleaner in a north facing room and slightly yellower and creamier in a south facing one where light absorption will be at its greatest. White should be seen as your secret tool. The ideal device for drawing attention to other things. If you paint your space white, then the other features in the room will become more noticeable. Whether that’s the exposed brick or woodwork or the art

www.orchardhomeinteriors.co.uk

Marshmallow Snow is a pure and peaceful colour ideal for so many surfaces. It has a milky-hued foundation that provides the perfect blank canvas for creating a striking space that never grows old. It is great for children’s bedrooms or playrooms where it performs strongly as a neutral or base paint. It is also light reflecting. If you’re keen to have a paint that maximises the amount of light within a room then look at your chosen paint colour’s Light Reflectance Value (LRV). Paints are graded on a scale of 1-100 with 100 being pure white and 1 being black. The highest I found for Marshmallow was 87, which is excellent in terms of light reflectance. Due to Marshmallow’s high reflectivity, most light tends to be reflected away whilst absorbing only a little, which is normally seen as a tint. This is an important consideration in a north or south facing room. Marshmallow will

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

THE ARTS or your furniture. Maybe it’s the way the light comes in through the windows, or the licking of the flames from your open fire or log burner? Each important feature in your room will be given prominence if the walls are white. A space can feel nice and bright and light just with its white paint, but it is the textures in the room that will make it feel warm and inviting. If you feel your room needs warming up then go natural or aged, introduce items with a story, or anything from the outside environment. Plants, wood, marble, brick, stone, aged leather, velvet, sheepskins, cowhides, or blankets. These are all ways to add interest in a soft and characterful way without ruining the light enhancing marshmallow effect. If you fancy trying a bit of colour, then add a splash where you want to add some focus. A tall wall for a painting, a comfy corner of your sofa for a cushion, a lovely colourful vase in an alcove. The great thing is that when you’ve chosen white as your backdrop then any colour goes, as every colour coordinates and nothing needs to be ruled out. And the best thing about white? It’s so practical!! Ignore those who fret about it looking dirty quickly. White is the easiest surface to clean, wash, bleach or re-paint so white enables you to relax and live your life. A mark, a graze, a dent, a chip… white is oh so easy to repair. Since the introduction of titanium dioxide into domestic paints in the 20th century, brilliant white finishes have become possible and safe1. Throughout history, from period homes through to shiny, modern, grand, architectural spaces and Scandinavian minimalism, white has been a leading force in impactful interiors. Whilst times and tastes may change, the use of white in providing the perfect backdrop to your schemes will undoubtedly endure. 1

www.tdma.info

Interview with

Alena Carvalho

his month, the gallery chatted with artist Alena Carvalho to get an insight into her work and journey as an artist. Born and raised in Prague, Alena has lived and worked in Buckinghamshire for over 20 years. Hi Alena, can you tell us about your early artistic influences growing up in Prague and how you became an artist? As a child, I was always making things or drawing, but I actually wanted to be an animator, back in the pre-digital age when everything was made by hand. I got a chance to visit the department of animated film in the film studios in Prague and I was totally enchanted by the world of poseable puppets, miniature sets and tiny props. It never even crossed my mind that I could become a painter. It wasn’t until years later when my two daughters started school that I had a bit more time on my hands and started to paint. I was very lucky to get signed up by an art publisher very early on, but it still took me a while to call myself an artist/painter when people asked me what I did for living, as it just sounded too good to be true. 10 years down the line, I am still not taking it for granted that I could do this for the rest of my life, although I can’t imagine wanting to do anything else. How would you describe your style and what type of paint do you enjoy working with? That’s a tricky question, Impressionistic realism if there is such a style? I like to portrait my objects/subjects fairly realistically, but my main objective is to capture the atmosphere, the light, the mood. I like to put down the structure of the image first and then let loose. I use acrylic paint, ink and ink pencils, as they are so versatile and they dry fast, so that you can finish a painting in one sitting (well, not that it happens very often!). I started off with watercolour and ink, but as my paintings grew larger in scale, I swapped paper for canvas and acrylic became my favourite medium.

trips for inspiration with my camera. I can walk around London for hours, especially on a sunny or a rainy day, seeking interesting compositions and changing light. I grew up in Prague, so I was surrounded by beautiful architecture whichever way I looked. But what I love about painting cityscapes is not just the buildings – they provide a backdrop for the life that goes on and all the changeable elements – people, buses, trams, bikes, weather, light. I could happily paint the same corner of London dozens of times, as the scene would offer something different each time. What does a typical working day look like for you? Alarm goes off as early as 6 am on school days, but I don’t usually start painting until about 10 am, as I like to get all the chores out of the way first thing so that I can fully immerse myself into painting without any distraction for the rest of the day. I like listening to audiobooks whilst I paint as it helps me work more spontaneously and not over think my paintings. I usually finish at dinner time but quite often I pop back into the studio ‘just for five minutes to finish this and that’ and before I know it, it’s 11 pm! Some days I spend hours going through photos, choosing what to paint next, other days I am prepping boards, framing or taking pictures of my finished paintings and doing admin, so no two days are ever the same. What is the best thing about being an artist? Do you have advice for budding artists? Being creative every day, learning or trying something new every day and the unpredictability of what the result at the end of each day might be. My advice to any young artist is don’t be afraid to experiment and to put your work out there – you never know where it might lead.

Your cityscapes are stunning, what drew you to focusing on cities and architecture? Ahh, thank you! I love travelling, I love city breaks and city walks and I love my ‘hunting’

Gemma Davey Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

www.my-furniture.com

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

CUT OUT AND KEEP POSTER

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CUT OUT AND KEEP POSTER

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MK Council

Pete Marland

Leader of Milton Keynes Council

New figures have revealed that Milton Keynes has beat the Government’s housebuilding targets for the fourth year in a row

Good news for local charities Milton Keynes is made up of many brilliant local charities, and the Council supports them wherever possible, so I am pleased that we have taken the first steps towards creating a new permanent charity hub. Last year, local charities such as MK Foodbank Xtra, Baby Basics MK and St Marks Meals were located at a temporary warehouse funded by the Council. The pandemic has caused increased demand on charities such as these, meaning a larger, more suitable space is needed. That is why the Council has allocated £1m for the relocation to a new facility in Granby, which will be transferred to us on a twenty-year lease. This decision means charities will have a spacious, secure home to continue offering their vital services – including handing out thousands of food parcels, baby packs, and meals to people in need. We will be working alongside the MK Community Foundation to bring even more charities together under one roof, so they can work together to help the people of Milton Keynes. Eco upgrades to council homes Rising energy costs are expected to have a big impact on families this year, with energy bills potentially increasing by up to 75%. The

housing estates, and will continue to help families reduce their carbon footprint and energy spending. Those who are interested in finding out more about the Council’s support for residents in need can visit www.miltonkeynes.gov.uk. Hundreds of council homes will have their external walls insulated, and windows and doors upgraded

Council is doing all that we can to support residents under financial strain, and one recent example of this is how we plan to provide over 300 Netherfield homes with some of the greenest efficiency upgrades available in the UK. The multi-million-pound project, partly funded by a Government grant, will see hundreds of council homes have their external walls insulated, windows and doors upgraded, and roofs replaced with high-performance insulation. It is part of the estate’s renewal programme, and will save families a lot of money on energy bills – all while benefiting the environment. The green project will create around 50 jobs and apprenticeships when it starts later on this year. Milton Keynes Council is also in the process of developing similar proposals on other

MK smashes housebuilding targets New figures have revealed that Milton Keynes has beat the Government’s housebuilding targets for the fourth year in a row, as nearly 6,000 homes have been built over the past three years. It is important that the Council meets housebuilding targets to ensure we maintain our planning powers, rather than losing control to the Government. This means we can continue to ensure new homes reflect the unique character of our city. Around 25% of the homes that have been built over the past few years are classed as ‘truly affordable’, meaning the house price reflects average income rather than the market value. And although this is good news, the Council wants to see even more affordable housing in MK, so we will continue to use our influence to make this happen.

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 252442 | Email: peter.marland@milton-keynes.gov.uk | Facebook: @mklabour ADDRESS: c/o Milton Keynes Council, Civic Offices, 1 Saxon Gate East, Milton Keynes MK9 3EJ For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | March 2022

MPS OUT & ABOUT LOCAL NEWS

Iain Stewart

MP for Milton Keynes South

irstly, I want to take this opportunity to offer my congratulations to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as she celebrated her Platinum Jubilee on the 6th of February. The Queen has been an outstanding figurehead and role model for the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, and I want to send my best wishes as she continues her reign. I look forward to the upcoming year as we celebrate Her Majesty’s wonderful achievement. It has been another busy month of being active in the constituency and I want to update you with some of the things I have been doing in Milton Keynes.

Iain outside the YMCA with Simon

Iain at Careys looking at examples of bricklaying

Iain with Ben Everitt MP and Nathan Bostock

Santander – I met with Santander UK CEO, Nathan Bostock, to see the latest progress on the business’ new headquarters in MK. Santander is currently building a new £150m state-of-the-art campus near the train station in Central Milton Keynes which will become their new UK headquarters. I was joined by CEO Nathan Bostock on the construction site to see how work was coming along and discuss Santander’s role within the Milton Keynes community. It was an amazing experience to walk around the new UK Headquarters of Santander and see the progress of the construction, as well as learning what each area of the building is going to become. The highlight of the tour was going to the top level and looking over the skyline, a view I am jealous of Santander’s employees having. YMCA – Also, I visited the Milton Keynes YMCA which is located in Central Milton Keynes. I met with Simon and Lisa from the MK YMCA to hear about what they do and see the new facilities since its renovation. The MK YMCA offer a pathway for homeless youngsters to get into work and receive support, and I learned about the various stages along the route. On the campus, the MK YMCA has a café, nursery and meeting rooms, all of which offer opportunities for residents to

gain experience and employment. Having a tour of the MK YMCA, I saw the facilities on offer for residents including a music room, communal areas and seeing the range of rooms available. I was pleased to hear about some of the success stories of residents getting into their dream jobs and residents responding well to support and services that are on offer. MK College and Careys Partnership – Recently, I visited Careys’ training facility in Bleak Hall. Careys have been in Milton Keynes for 40 years, contributing to the completion of over 100 projects across the city. In partnership with MK College, Careys are offering apprentices the opportunity to receive training in the construction industry and receive a qualification to recognise this. The training facilities at Bleak Hall provide apprentices a hands-on approach to learning the various aspects of construction in an inside and outside environment, and I was pleased to see some brilliant examples of what the apprentices have built. Also, I welcomed the news that the materials used for training are reusable, limiting waste and the impact on the environment. As ever, if my office or I can be of any help, please do get in touch with us on the contact details provided.

CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01908 686830 | Email: iain.stewart.mp@parliament.uk | www.iainstewart.org.uk CONSTITUENCY OFFICE: Suite 102, Milton Keynes Business Centre, Foxhunter Drive, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK14 6GD 62

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MPS OUT & ABOUT LOCAL NEWS

Ben Everitt

MP for Milton Keynes North

t has been absolutely brilliant meeting so many businesses and community groups across Milton Keynes North so far in 2022. At this stage last year we were only just about to begin easing lockdown so it’s wonderful to have been able to get back to doing what I love and meeting people. Just one of the groups I’ have met recently is Campbell Park Parish Council and it was great to hear their passion for improving the local area. We discussed issues such as knife crime and local policing and I will continue to listen to issues raised by local people. I know the cost of living is also a concern for many of my constituents so I welcome the Government’s announcement that it will provide a £150 Council Tax rebate for households in tax bands A-D in April. Supporting Electric Car Businesses In Milton Keynes Protecting our environment has rightfully been at the top of the political agenda and I am so pleased that Milton Keynes is continuing to lead the way when it comes to going green. Recently I have met with businesses who are playing an important role in the switch to green transport and this includes Volkswagen UK, where I test drove their new all-electric ID.3 after hearing about their short-term and long-term plans to move to electric vehicles in the UK. I have also recently been shown around bp pulse’s headquarters in Linford Wood where they assemble both public and home charging points for electric cars. The Government is committed to building a greener future for the United Kingdom with plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 and I am delighted businesses based locally are engaging with that. And one of my favourite facts is Milton Keynes has more publicly available rapid electric car charging points than anywhere else in the UK and this has been helped by more than £10 million of Government funding in recent years.

Ben visits Volkswagen UK to hear about the company’s plans to move to electric vehicles in the UK

Ben visited bp pulse’s HQ in Linford Wood where they assemble both public and home charging points for electric cars

More Officers On The Way For Thames Valley Police Thames Valley Police will be able to recruit an extra 244 police officers over the next year thanks to the latest Government allocations as part of plans to hire 20,000 new officers across the country. There are currently 273 more officers on the streets of Thames Valley since the plan was announced back in 2019. Thames Valley Police will also receive an extra £15 million in grant funding from the Government compared to 2021, taking the total to £285 million.

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Milton Keynes Ranks Highly In Centre For Cities Report It is encouraging to see Milton Keynes is on track to continue to be at the front of the UK’s economic recovery from COVID, according to the

latest Cities Outlook Report 2022. MK was ranked 7th in the UK for productivity, 6th for the number of business start-ups and 5th for business stock which is fantastic. And I am glad the Government has supported our local businesses throughout the pandemic and has now provided in excess of £600 million to MK businesses. This is through schemes such as the Small Business Grants Fund, Additional Restrictions Grants, Local Authority Discretionary Grants, Restart Grant Scheme, Local Restrictions Support Grant, Christmas Support Payments, Business Rate Relief, Eat Out To Help Out, Self Employment Income Support Scheme, Bounce Back Loans and the Coronavirus Business Interruptions Loan Scheme. This number does not even include the unprecedented funding provided to support the more than 52,000 people who’s jobs were protected by Furlough throughout the pandemic. Over the last month I also… ▸ I wrote a joint letter with Iain Stewart MP to Cabinet Office Minister Steve Barclay backing Milton Keynes’ bid for city status as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations; ▸ I’ve supported Dr Liam Fox MP’s landmark Down Syndrome Bill as it passes through Parliament and aims to improve the lives of people living with Down Syndrome; ▸ I am continuing my campaign with Iain Stewart MP to bring the new Great British Railways headquarters to Milton Keynes.

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

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

MUSIC

Torus set sail for success O ur first gig of 2022 was spent watching the progression of MK heavies Torus who showcased a live confidence to match the power of some tempting material, writes Sammy Jones. It was a great night of riffs and belief from those on the stage, while stage front we were all left buoyed by the performance of these ‘ones to watch.’ The band might be young, but there have been a few hard-hitters so far, and that night in January at MK11 was also the first gig for the latest in a succession of drummers. “It’s mental really,” frontman Alfie Glass told me, “We’ve played with about six different drummers. Since Eleanor Lawrence left it has been hard to find the right one and we are very picky as you can tell, but I do believe we’ve found the right guy now with Jack Orr – he’s a rare find.

“I think the band has progressed a lot over the last year,” Alfie said, “We have written a lot of new music which has helped, and Harry just keeps getting better at mixing. “I feel like we’ve upped the quality of everything recently, it’s exciting.” The band – completed by aforementioned bassist Harry Quinn – recently issued the single Sail, and things really are charged just now; Torus has just been on the road supporting Green Lung and another single, Did it Again, will be released in April, followed in the summer by a four track EP via the MNRK label. Whispers of an album have already started too, but the band is taking everything in its stride. “There seems to be a buzz about the band now, but no major pressures yet,” Alfie promised, “We are just super happy that we’re getting to do what we love.”

The Sail EP – track by track: Sail Sail is really a paranoia song that came out of lockdown, and spending long periods of isolation. It started with a few riffs and turned into an anthemic sounding, big rock song that we are all quite proud of. Did It Again About running away from things and how they’ll always come back to you – the track just fell into place and turned into a catchy, pumping, ‘hitting the road’ type of song. Hurt You It’s punky and it’s angry. It’s about knowing that someone you care for has been hurt badly and there’s nothing you can do about it. Clone Our interpretation of a big heavy ballad. Instead of writing about love and heartbreak, we made this song about social media taking over your life and ripping your personality and soul out with the beauty standards of today, and the fake lives that people end up living. It’s damaging.

Meet the Bishop at MK11

e’s certainly not a new name on the hip hop scene, but he is a distinctly cool and clever creator, and that’s why Markel Scott has been up in lights at shows alongside the likes of Nas and Kendrick Lamar. Those of you who tip your ears to rap won’t recognise the name Markel, but will possibly know him better by his stage moniker Bishop Nehru. His debut mixtape, Nehruvia, was cut loose when he was in his mid-teens and soon afterwards, the Bishop inked a deal with Nas’ label, Mass Records. That was the best part of a decade ago. There have been plenty of musical deliveries in the time since, including collaborations

with the late MC MF DOOM, and a solid body of solo albums, including Elevators: Act I & II in 2018 which saw Rolling Stone magazine salivating; ‘a hip-hop Pet Sounds with a penchant for wide-eyed lyricism,’ they declared. He didn’t stop there, and in 2020 gave fans something other than a pandemic to focus their attention on – the album Nehruvia: My Disregarded Thoughts. The New Yorker will be bringing his vibe to MK11 in Kiln Farm on March 18. Others on the bill include Dale May and Har-Q with more to be announced. Rest assured the Bishop’s music is way catchier than the link for tickets: skiddle.com/e/35997142 Markel Scott AKA Bishop Nehru

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MUSIC

‘I’m touring the world in my dressing gown!’ T he great thing about artists is their creativity, of course. Take MK’s Craig Hudson, for example. He didn’t want to meet with friends to enjoy cheese and wine during the lockdown, he ‘just’ wanted to play music, and that wasn’t allowed. So he decided to park up his alter-ego Billy Nomad, and went electronic with Coda Rushing in 2021 on the absolutely banging track, Skills. It was one of our top numbers of the year, and the good news is that another CR release is planned for 2022. Now though, Billy is back from hibernation with a new album planned for the summer with his band The Common Army. What can we expect? “A lot of what I’m doing at the moment is clean cut, acoustic rock songs,” he shares, “I’m also revisiting past material to make the tracks more commercially accessible, so that people don’t just go ‘that sounds weird,’ but that they appreciate the song!” Currently, Billy is on a worldwide media tour from the comfort of home. It’s easier than dragging amps around, that’s for sure: “I’m going on lots of radio shows and podcasts,” he explains, “I’ve just been in Alabama and Tennessee...I’ve got one coming up in Connecticut,” he says, scanning his itinerary. “I’m touring the world in my dressing gown with my Mr Noisy mug in one hand and my guitarlele in the other!” For a man more used to hitting up live venues, this is a new way of operating. But it wasn’t just Covid that forced it: “It was Covid and my mental health stuff,” Craig explains, “There was a lot of stuff I wasn’t dealing with before the pandemic, so when Covid

Craig Hudson as his alter-ego Billy Nomad

happened, I thought ‘I’ll deal with it now’ and it was a lot harder than I thought it would be, but I’ve come out the other side. “I’m looking at the shape of my life and the form it takes moving forward and I definitely want to get back to gigging, I really do.” 2022 looks like being crammed full with Nomad noise, and Billy and Craig will be side by side for the journey... “I see Billy as this kind of inextricable part of my character,” Craig says, “It started off

as a way to hide my anxiety, but very quickly became this other person that I was allowing myself to be onstage. “It has become more than an alter-ego, it’s more like an alternative personality.” > Keep in touch on all things Billy on FB and Instagram @thebillynomad The Specials play Bedford

Park in June

Get in early... > Reformed 90s pop players Steps are heading this way! H, Claire, Lisa, Faye and Lee will deliver pop smash-hits like 5, 6, 7, 8, Tragedy and Stomp before bringing things up to date with material from their most recent elpees, What The Future Holds Pt 1 & 2 when they come to Campbell Park on July 29. “We will never forget the past with Steps, it’s what made us, but we’ve got to look to the future too,” said the band in a statement. Click to Skiddle and search for tickets. > A little further afield, The Specials will play Bedford Park on June 3. Famed for

smashes including Too Much Too Young and Ghost Town, the band issued a new album of covers in 2021 and showed that they’ve lost none of their appeal; Protest Songs: 19242012 debuted at No.2 in the album charts. Enjoy yourself: Tickets are £45 – book them at bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk

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

WHATS ON

#WhatsOnPulse Naturally 7 Tuesday, March 1 Who needs instruments? Not Naturally 7 who use only the power of their vocal chords to replicate a band, an orchestra, a recording studio...the whole thing! Celebrity fans? They have more than a few – Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, Stevie Wonder are among them. An intimate show at The Stables that will truly wow you. Tuning up: stables.org Women’s Walking Network Thursday, March 3, 10am-midday Get outside and get active, meet new people and discover more of the spaces on your doorstep. This month’s Parks Trust event is a brisk three and a half mile walk around historic Great Linford Manor Park and surrounding areas. Wear sturdy footwear and remember a drink – it’s a thirsty business! Step on: theparkstrust.com The Song Loft Friday, March 4, 8pm-10pm Join The Tartan Painters live and unplugged in the Beechey Room at the latest Performers Night at the Stony Stratford venue. Payment is a fiver on the doors. Check in: thesongloft.com

Naturally 7 bring their vocal talents to The Stables

Woburn Sands Band Saturday, March 5 An evening to celebrate HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year – there will be flags for all, and a programme full of perfect pieces to entertain the whole family. A royal affair: stables.org

NMPAT – Big Sing Wednesday, March 9 Thursday, March 10 Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust presents Big Sing, two nights celebrating vocal music with massed choirs of 500 young singers from Northamptonshire’s Primary Schools and NMPAT County Choirs. Tune in: royalandderngate.co.uk

Spring Festival of Music – Orchestral Spectacular Sunday, March 6 The NMPAT county orchestras take the stage at the Royal and Derngate in Northampton. Tuned up: royalandderngate.co.uk

Linocut Workshop Saturday, March 12 & Sunday, March 13 Printmaker Charlotte Ashman shares the art of linocut at this two-day event, which is being held at RiverKnits, The Depot at Weedon Bec. Find out more: Call 01327 342273

Slimming World – Taste The Freedom Monday, March 7 Feeling the need to shift a few pounds? Slimming World is offering sessions in Stony Stratford every Monday at 4.30pm, 5.30pm or 7pm. Shape up: Call 07886 808205 Andy Parsons – Healing The Nation Thursday, March 10 The comedian heads to Kettering Arts Centre as part of his rescheduled tour. Find the funnies: ketteringartscentre.com 66

Andy Parsons brings some comedy healing to Kettering Arts Centre this month

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Friends! The Musical Parody Sunday, March 13 A fun show celebrating and poking fun at the wacky misadventures of the group of 20-something pals from the hit show that won over a generation. They’ll be there for you: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Denton & District Gardening Club Monday, March 14, 7.30pm Val Bourne, who writes articles on gardening for several well-known publications, will be talking about The Living Jigsaw at Denton Village Hall (NN7 1DT). Members go free, visitors pay £3. A raffle and refreshments will feature. Blooming great: Call 01604 890875 or email m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk

Guns N’ Roses Experience Friday, March 18 Relive the rock ‘n’ roll excess of the mighty music makers responsible for smash hits like Sweet Child O’ Mine, Paradise City and Welcome to the Jungle, with the only tribute band whose guitarist is endorsed by Marshall Amps. That’s how hard these guys rock! It’s So Easy: thepicturedrome.com

Dr Hook Thursday, March 17, 7.30pm Dr Hook, still fronted by Dennis Lororriere, visit The Derngate as part of their 50th Anniversary Tour. Get ready to hear big hits like Sylvia’s Mother, Sexy Eyes and When You’re In Love With A Beautiful Woman in this hit-filled show. Share the night: royalandderngate.co.uk

Open Spring Flower Show Saturday, March 19, 2.30pm-4.30pm Join Denton & District Gardening Club at the event, featuring a plant stall, raffle and home-made refreshments, as well as 34 competitive classes, including some for children. Competition is open to all. Sowing the seed: Call 01604 890875 or email m.patemen@yahoo.co.uk for more details.

Moonrakers Friday, March 18, 8pm-11pm A Celtic folk quartet from Oxford who are clever with instruments including cello, harp, mandola, guitar and whistles. Let your ears loose at York House in Stony Stratford. Celebrate the sounds: thesongloft.com MK Western Front Association – Lecture ‘On to Aleppo’ Friday, March 18 Join author and lecturer Stuart Hadaway at Wolverton Working Men’s Social Club for a talk that takes you away from the mud of the Western Front and into the scorching sands of the desert. The focus is the 1918 campaigns in Palestine, the Transjordan and Syria, culminating in the Battles of Megiddo between the Egyptian Expeditionary Force and the Ottoman Force. Western front to Wolverton: westernfrontassociation.com

MK Parks Trust are running a bushcraft workshop at Elfield Nature Park on March 19

Introduction to Bushcraft – Whittling and Coppicing Saturday, March 19, 1.30pm-3.30pm Learn how to whittle using natural materials during this Parks Trust organised workshop at Elfield Nature Park. Once you have harvested the wood, and learned new skills, you’ll be able to practice making items you can take home. Woody wonders: theparkstrust.com NOASIS & Supakarma Saturday, March 19 Celebrate the music of the Gallagher brothers after being warmed up by the sounds of reformed indie-rockers Supakarma playing on home turf at The Craufurd Arms in Wolverton. Roll with it: thecraufurdarms.com

March Highlights Larry Dean Thursday 3 March Larry Dean, double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and star of Live At The Apollo, returns with a brand new hour of “confessional storytelling at its funniest” (Herald). The Billy Joel Albums Show Tuesday 8 March Come and enjoy two more classic Billy Joel albums performed in their entirety… in one sensational show. The award-winning Elio Pace and his amazing band return to The Stables, this time performing albums, Streetlife Serende and 52nd Street. Andy Fairweather Low Saturday 19 March Andy Fairweather Low came to prominence as lead singer with Amen Corner. Since those early days Andy has gone on to work with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix and many more. Curtis Stigers Thursday 24 & Friday 25 March His string of hit singles, millions of albums sold and a 28-year recording career aside, Curtis Stigers’ commitment to artistic growth and to bringing new tunes to the Great American Songbook has become unparalleled in modern music. Natasha Seale Sunday 27 March Vocalist and former West End leading lady Natasha Seale leads a stellar band in a celebration of Duke Ellington, featuring new arrangements of repertoire including The A Train, Satin Doll, Sophisticated Lady and It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing. The Stables, Wavendon Milton Keynes MK17 8LU Box office: 01908 280800 stables.org

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

WHATS ON Youth Brass 2000 Sunday, March 20, 3pm National Youth Brass Band Champions, Youth Brass 2000 visit The Core in Corby for an afternoon of brass band classics and contemporary music. Brassed off: thecorecorby.com

Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club Friday, March 25, 8pm The monthly comedy night is back at The Lab in Corby, with smile bringers Andrea Hubert, Jonny Awsum and Matt Green. Sally-Anne Hayward is your compere. Having a laugh: thecorecorby.com

Waddesdon Manor Wednesday, March 23 Having been ‘put to bed’ during the winter months for important cleaning and conservation work, the rooms are ready for the new season which launches today. The house will then be open WednesdaySunday, 11am-4pm. Advance booking essential. Go inside: Waddesdon.org.uk

Napalm Death Saturday, March 26, 7pm Legendary extreme metal band Napalm Death make their long-awaited return to Milton Keynes, with support from Corbybased heavies Raging Speedhorn Bring the noise: thecraufurdarms.com

Forever Flowers: Snowdrops at Waddesdon Wednesday, March 23 - Sunday, March 27, 10am-5pm In partnership with the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, the Aviary Gardens at Waddesdon will house a temporary display of 500 handcrafted iron snowdrops, dedicated to the life and memory of loved ones who are no longer with us. Beautiful tribute: Waddesdon.org.uk Curtis Stigers: Live in Concert Thursday, March 24 – Friday, March 25 The award-winning singer, songwriter and saxophonist makes a welcome return to the Wavendon venue. I Wonder Why: stables.org

Tograiser! Saturday, March 26, 8pm – 10.45pm A fundraiser to swell the coffers in support of this summer’s Togfest, featuring Togmor themselves, and with support from Fozz. Music and merriment in no small portion. Folk it up: togfest.org Stamp Fair with MK Philatelic Society Saturday, April 2, 10am-4pm The bi-annual Stamp Fair returns. A variety of stamp dealers and a good range of stock will be available at the event, being held at The Methodist Hall in Bletchley’s Queensway. Pop along and meet members of the club, receive advice and guidance on unusual stamps, or perhaps sell your unwanted items. Stamp donations are also welcomed for charity auctions. First class event: Call 01908 521220 or visit miltonkeynesphilatelicsociety.co.uk

Enjoy live international and national theatre and dance performances from the best seat in the house at MK Gallery’s Sky Room independent cinema. Event Cinema Bolshoi Ballet: Swan Lake Sunday 6 March | 2pm Composed by Russian Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1875, Swan Lake has become one of the most popular ballets in the world. The White Swan is truly a symbol of Russian Ballet, of its beauty and magnificence. Exhibition On Screen: Frida Kahlo (12A) Tuesday 8 March | 7pm A journey through the life of a great artist and true icon, discovering her art and uncovering the truth behind her often-turbulent life. ROH Live: Rigoletto Sunday 13 March | 2pm In his first work as Director of the Royal Opera House, Oliver Mears brings Verdi’s masterpiece into the modern world. This special anniversary screening of Verdi’s Rigoletto celebrates 171 years since its premiere in 1851. Leith Theatre: The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (15+) Saturday 19 March | 7pm Within the century-old walls of the historic Leith Theatre, this gothic tale of double lives and inner demons takes on its own hybrid identity in this unique retelling. Audiences will witness the simultaneous creation and screening of this one-off experience. Exhibitions Ingrid Pollard: Carbon Slowly Turning 12 March – 29 May The first exhibition to fully explore Guyaneseborn British artist and photographer Ingrid Pollard and her pioneering and experimental practise from the 1980s to the present day. Free entry for Milton Keynes residents every Tuesday. Ingrid Pollard, Self Evident (detail), 1992, 9 colour light boxes, each 50.8 x 50.8 cm and 8 silver gelatin prints, each 84.1 x 118.8 cm. © and courtesy of the artist

Waddesdon Manor opens its doors to visitors once again

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Sat 21 & Sun 22 May 2022 Willen Lake South 12noon - 5pm

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WNO Madam Butterfly

Chicago features a star cast including Sheila Ferguson, Russell Watson and Faye Brookes

Pic: Richard Hubert Smith

THEATRE

Pic: Tristram Kenton

No ticket? Then you

‘carrn’t’ see Jimmy! Classic musicals, funny folks and a family of little piggies... Pulse’s Sammy Jones brings you this month’s theatre highlights.

he title of his current tour is Terribly Funny, but unless you are already booked in to see Jimmy Carr on his return to MK Theatre this month (March 6), you’ll not find anything to laugh about – tickets are rarer than a politician who didn’t enjoy a party or two during lockdown. Those who did move quickly to secure their seat are in for a treat and a half from the razorsharp master of merriment. Laugh for all of us, you jimmy-jammy ticket-holders! Chicago brings the razzle-dazzle decadence of 100 years ago to the stage (March 8-12). Housewife and nightclub dancer Roxie Hart murders her on-the-side lover after he makes threats to walk out on her. Roxie is desperate to avoid conviction, so she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, with the aid of Chicago’s most formidable criminal lawyer. It’s cold outside, but the temperature is guaranteed to rise if you check in for this steamiest of musicals. Taking on the iconic roles this time around? One time star of the Cobbles, Faye Brookes will be Roxie, while leading light of the West End stage, Djalenga Scott, is Velma Kelly. What your current theatre brochure won’t tell you is that Sheila Ferguson is also onboard as Mama Morton, and Russell Watson is playing Billy Flynn. A show with murder, greed, corruption, exploitation, adultery and treachery, and all that jazz, of course. Friends! The Musical Parody will be there for you (March 13). It’s the one about the typical day at New York’s only coffee shop, until an unexpected runaway bride enters the picture and kicks the whole gang out of second gear! 70

Welsh National Opera are on tour again, Rather than simply imitate Ross, Chandler, and ready for their annual visit to the new Monica, Phoebe, Joey and Rachel, this town with performances of Madam Butterfly is a good-hearted romp through some of (March 22 & 26), Don Giovanni (March 23 & the favourite moments from the show. It 24) and Jenůfa (March 25). simultaneously celebrates and pokes fun at Jenůfa is about to have a child out of the smash hit comedy from the ‘90s. wedlock but hopes to marry the father Uncensored and music-filled, but bereft of before the secret is revealed – but not if her any smelly cats, which is just as well. stepmother has her way, and her actions There’s a grand show for kids during half have terrible consequences for term (March 15/16) and we promise Jenůfa. The heart-wrenching tale we aren’t telling porkies! has engaged audiences for Peppa Pig is back with her more than a century. It will be Best Day Ever – she is going told in Czech with surtitles in on a special day out with English. George, and mummy and If you are heading to any of daddy pig, and it will be full of the WNO shows, you might fun adventures; from caves, like to check in for the predragons and dinosaurs to iceperformance talks too - worth creams and muddy puddles. asking about when booking. There are five performances Clive Anderson visits We’ll skip over to The Stables across the two days, promising The Stables at Wavendon (March 26) for a visit porcine perfection. by Clive Anderson with his first ever solo Forget reaching for the stars, and tour, Me, Macbeth & I, which he promises instead reach for the flag – you’ll need it for the will be ‘funnier than Shakespeare’s greatest Last Night of the Spring Proms (March 20) tragedy,’ and there is more smiley stuff a day which will feature music by Elgar, Strauss, later, with Andy Zaltzman who invites his Puccini and Rossini ahead of the finale with audience to submit topics, issues and gripes Rule, Britannia! and Land of Hope and Glory. for him to satirise to order. It makes for a truly unique show from the comedian, broadcaster and writer. Back at MK Theatre, We Will Rock You (March 28-April 2) crams 24 of Queen’s most-loved tracks into its two and three quarter hours, but with tickets nearly all mopped up by music fans months back, we’ll sign off for now. We’ll be back with a bumper crop of brilliant shows for April... > Book in: MK Theatre: atgtickets.com/ venues/milton-keynes-theatre The Stables: stables.org Peppa Pig and family arrive in town for their Best Day Ever

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

Film Reviews by Jordan Adcock

THE

SOUVENIR

FILM OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4/5

The Souvenir was a terrific indie drama back in 2019 and Joanna Hogg returns to direct its follow-up. The film picks up with film school student Julie (again played by Honor Swinton Byrne, daughter of Tilda who also appears here) where the first film ended. She struggles to process the sudden death of Anthony, with whom she had a brief but tumultuous relationship, wondering who he really was and what it all meant. It spills into her trying to graduate from film school where she bases her final project film on her relationship but struggles to direct it. Julie’s gentle, very rich parents and their country house provide a refuge for Julie even if their stiff upper lips prevent them providing the emotional support she needs. Like its predecessor, a film risks being self-obsessed when it’s about the trials

of becoming a filmmaker, perhaps even more so in a post-Covid world. Ironically, Part II is so anxious to show self-awareness that it’s a film about filmmaking that it almost becomes its own self-obsession, cutting to shots of flowers and nature to try and ground the drama, i.e., life goes on even if her film doesn’t get made, and it constantly shows the artifice of film productions. But at least these techniques are pleasingly easy to understand rather than oblique or trying to be too clever for their own good. Still, Part II might be harder to love than the first film. It arguably misses Anthony’s aloof presence brooding through each scene and his and Julie’s relationship, though Julie’s ambivalent loneliness is part of the point and excellently acted by Swinton Byrne. ✪

NIGHTMARE ALLEY

THE KING’S MAN Star Rating: 2/5

MALIGNANT

Star Rating: 1.5/5

Director Guillermo del Toro’s love of monsters, so famous in Pan’s Labyrinth and more recently The Shape of Water, is less overt in Nightmare Alley than in his previous films but the story is just as dark. Still the adapting the William Lindsay Gresham novel originally made as a film noir in the 1940s. The admittedly long running time (150 minutes) allows us to discover and explore Bradley Cooper’s mysterious, quietly ambitious protagonist and where his greedy choices take him. Cooper compellingly plays Stan, who latches onto a travelling carnival before coveting and gaining cold reading skills to become a swindler psychic with ever higher rewards and stakes, supported by the all-star cast including Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara and Willem Dafoe and the stylised 1940s aesthetics, both glamorous and gritty. ✪

In yet another case of Hollywood’s determination to franchise everything to death, this prequel to the two Kingsman spy action-comedies is wholly unnecessary and, aside from a couple of standout moments, not exactly robust as its own film. At least you can enjoy Ralph Fiennes’ thespian charm as Orlando, the aristocrat who leads his own clandestine efforts to thwart a shady organisation trying to spark war in Europe, leading to the establishment of the Kingsman secret service. The story’s a weaker variation of the first film’s story with flat character motivations, especially in what’s meant to be the central bond between Orlando and his spirited son. It makes the film veering between tones especially noticeable, following up comedic hijinks duelling Rasputin with brutal fights to the death in No Man’s Land. ✪

If this would-be horror film directed by James Wan is truly malignant, it’s in how frequently hilarious it is… was that even the intention? Unlike last issue’s film of the month House of Gucci, where the mix of the sillier and the more serious might be unavoidable given its subject matter, it’s hard to tell with this one precisely because so much is plain silly here. The story focuses on Madison (Annabelle Wallis), a pregnant woman who experiences visions of other people’s nasty murders before realising the visions are actually occurring, before descending into plotting that’s ridiculous even by this genre’s standards (the big reveal is laughably implausible), allied with downright slapstick gory violence that’s nearly impossible to ever take seriously. ✪

Filmmaker Roland Emmerich, 25 years after directing the enormous disaster-action hit Independence Day (and 5 years after making its pitiful sequel), is apparently only capable of making a much lesser version of the same formula with some Gravityesque space peril thrown in. It turns out that the Moon’s a hollow megastructure hurtling towards Earth and it somehow gets more mind-numbing from there. Only John Bradley’s excitable performance livens up a very dull quest to save Earth with vague, generic sci-fi designs and set-pieces (not to mention the needless Earth-set subplot) but no characters to speak of. The film features so much obligatory CGI carnage and yet Donald Sutherland, spouting exposition in a wheelchair for roughly a minute, is the most compelling thing in the film. ✪

Star Rating: 3.5/5

MOONFALL

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

MOTORING

Cheap car storage in the UK This month ADAM TUDOR-LANE offers car owners, a simpler and cheaper alternative to car storage.

o you’ve got more than one car; maybe it’s a project, a classic, or just a second car you won’t be using for a while. Car storage is horrifically expensive in the UK, and while you can pay the likes of Historit and Storacar a fortune every month for what is an outstanding service, there’s a far cheaper way that I’ve been using for the last few years now. Empty garages. Many people have a garage they don’t use; either it’s filled with boxes from moving house that were never unpacked, or the owners are too lazy to open and close the garage door at the end of each day to park their car inside. Finding cheap car storage The best places to find empty garages are either your local Facebook community group (make sure it has a lot of members) or a website called Nextdoor – which is basically the same as Facebook just for neighbours and mainly moaning about the small trivial things in life, like fireworks and dog poo. But how cheap is cheap? Well, I’ve been renting my current garage for £40 a month for over a year now. Before that, I managed to find another for £50 a month. Go in with a low offer in the advert. Say you’re looking for a garage to store your car in for six months etc., for £40 a month and see who replies. If that offer is too low, then bump it up to £50, but I’d never pay any more than that. It’s by far the cheapest way to store your car; even in an old asbestos roofed warehouse, I was being charged £70 a month! Most people will snap your hand off at £40 a month just for doing nothing.

What precautions should I take?

Do I need to tell my insurance company?

Yes, it is a risk, but how much of a risk is up to you. If you own a Jaguar E-Type or an Aston Martin DB5, then this probably isn’t the setup you’re looking for. Make sure you have a written agreement between you and the garage owner, just something informal to say: I, *insert name* am storing *insert car, reg, model* for XX months. The property owner is *insert name* and agrees to this at a rate of £40 per calendar month, payable on XX date. Print two copies, each party signs and dates both, and that’s your agreement should anything go wrong. Make sure you ask if anyone else has access, or will they also be using the garage (ideally not!).

If it’s just for a month, I wouldn’t bother. But if it’s going to be long term, say six months or more, then yes. Tell your insurance company it’s in storage and in a garage at this new address. What should I do to the car when storing it? I’d lock it, leave the bonnet open, then remove the battery. A car without power is far harder to steal; it will also take would be criminals a lot longer to thieve, thus likely putting them off. Adding a steering wheel lock also helps; the best rated is the Stoplock HG 150 Pro Elite - so don’t bother buying anything else; they’re a waste of time. There you have it; I’ve saved you hundreds a year in car storage costs. You’re welcome :)

There’s a far cheaper way that I’ve been using for the last few years now... empty garages

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PUZZLES

View from the Far Kerb

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

8 6

7 9

Thinking of

Christmas I

t was Monday and the last day of January. While there was no sunshine, the clouds didn’t look full of rain or snow and all was dry. The New Year was established and well under way. I was travelling to a friend’s house. The dry weather, and the promise of it remaining so, had me decide to walk there. Eventually I encountered a house covered in Christmas lights. The front lawn was festooned with illuminated reindeer, along with a Santa Clause in a gloriously decorated sleigh. I stopped momentarily to think: yes, the next day would definitely herald the beginning of the second month of the year. No other houses showed signs of Christmas, so I felt better knowing that I had not inadvertently stepped through a time portal and found myself transported to Christmas; past, present, or future. However, upon recommencing my journey there was absolutely no way I could escape the question in my head of: Wha-wha-what? Had something unfortunate happened at that household? Maybe personal matters had taken precedence over the conventions of the year. Or, was no one there willing to take responsibility for going outside and taking them down? Could it just be household politics or laziness? Then I supposed that the occupants could have gone on holiday for Christmas and had their return home delayed. Whatever the reason, there were a number of reindeer smiling at everyone who passed. I never knew that they were capable of smiling. Mind you, I also didn’t know they pulled sleighs covered in tinsel and lights while being afflicted with the same. One is always learning. Roads were crossed and paths followed. My onward navigation consisted of avoiding fast moving objects full of people and the occasional bicycle.

However, my mind just wouldn’t let go of the image of the Christmas paraphernalia covering the whole front of the house along with that garden. The memory of a large supermarket erecting a Christmas tree in their main entrance in early October some years back popped into my head. There had been a huge amount of ridicule aimed at them, so a few days later they took it down. At the start of November they re-erected it.

1 3

6 2

8 3

5 1

QUICK CROSSWORD

upon recommencing my journey there was absolutely no way I could escape the question in my head of: Wha-wha-what? Could the store manager of that time be the same person leading the household where Rudolf and his friends were currently cavorting across the grass? Then I realised that I had possibly been looking at things wrong. Rather than decorations being left up later than normal, was it possible that they were merely the first household in that street to put up their Christmas bits ‘n’ bobs for 2022? Eventually I arrived at my destination full of awe and respect for someone who had very obviously beaten everyone else in getting their decorations up. Instead of others pointing and laughing, I have little doubt they will spur on their neighbourhood and I fully anticipate the whole street will be illuminated by twinkly lights and glowing plastic Santa Clauses before the end of March. PHIL O’HARA

Clues Across

1. Remained upright (5) 4. Air current (7) 8. Unpaid debts (7) 9. Haggard (5) 10. Written composition (5) 13. Capital of Costa Rica (3,4) 17. Cast a spell on (3) 18. Fairy (6) 19. Account book (6) 20. Professional charge (3)

22. Pills (7) 25. Possession (5) 28. Accepted practice (5) 29. Intransigent (7) 30. Ceremonial staff (7) 31. Scorch (5)

Clues Down

1. Use a razor (5) 2. Monsters (5) 3. Journal (5) 4. Neglect (6) 5. Supplement (3,2)

6. Organic fertiliser (5) 7. Suffuse (5) 11. Brown pigment (5) 12. Spirit of the air (5) 14. Wheel shaft (4) 15. Biblical traitor (5) 16. Soft leather (5) 17. Heave (4) 21. Elude (6) 22. Bundle up (5) 23. Courageous (5) 24. Upright (5) 25. Accumulate (5) 26. Killed (5) 27. Tenth part (5)

Solutions to Sudoku and Quick Crossword can be found on page 74 For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | March 2022

Your stars LOCAL NEWS

HOWARD PARKER

THE ASTRO-GUIDE

Flavour of the Times - I don’t know why people talk about ‘blue moons’ being special. All it means is that there is a new moon twice in the month, but I suppose it does give two opportunities rather than just one to start a new cycle in some way in your life. We begin with the new moon in Pisces, not a sign noted for its aggressive tone on 1st, so that may resolve some confrontational situations. The second one is on 31st – in Aries and things will spring into action because, in astrological terms, it is the beginning of the year’s sun cycle. It is all a bit optimistic, but maybe we are still capable of fooling ourselves in some respects (it wouldn’t be the first time, would it?). There is still a bit of tough love lurking in the background to start with, but it is definitely gentler than we have experienced for a while and the new cycle of creativity will give us all some hope as the year unfolds.

PISCES February 20 – March 20

CANCER June 22 – July 23

SCORPIO October 24 – November 22

ARIES March 21 – April 20

LEO July 24 – August 23

SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 22

Wooly optimism may overtake you this month. It’s not based on reality, just a feeling that things are getting better for you and that you feel you can step out into the world again with a bit more confidence. It is very much about feelings, so you won’t be in the mood for being told what you should be doing. Just float with it…

Challenges continue until the middle of the month as your sign struggles with the harshness of the world out there. Your natural sense of bringing a positive, caring slant to your relationships won’t stop you struggling with your own stuff, but others appreciate your warmth and sensitivity. Things really start to get moving after 26th and your curiosity gets the better of the pain.

Spring starts mid-month when the sun goes into your sign, even if it will take until the new moon on 31st for the vital new energy of the year to kick in. Emotionally, it is a good idea to try to let your feelings out and feel into the things you wish to let go of now. Mentally, use your brain! Try to think things out for the spring ahead, do some planning, get yourself in mental shape.

Opportunities to shine present themselves towards the end of March. Planets in Aquarius still challenge you to overcome some of your more self-centred ways and, paradoxically, the more humanitarian and optimistic you become, the more people will be attracted to what you can offer this coming year. Take a lead in this process: there is a whole planet to save!

TAURUS April 21 – May 21

VIRGO August 24 – September 23

Starting at the new moon in Pisces on 1st March, it is time to dare to dream. You want to know all the details but those can wait. As of now, it’s time to think beyond and see what you can imagine for the year ahead. You will get some support from Aquarians because they can help you see the wood from the trees and a sense of excitement will grow as the end of the month approaches.

Your ‘business as usual’ is to be patient this month and next and keep riding the crazy things that still pop up and cause a certain amount of mayhem. It won’t be until around May that you will start to feel the energy needed to plough ahead with what you have been planning, but you can start the planning now while things are relatively quiet.

GEMINI May 22 – June 21

LIBRA September 24 – October 23

Not a ‘buzzing’ month but one in which quiet conversations can achieve an awful lot in getting you mentality into the right zone for the spring. Beware of emailing your emotions, as it will only cause more trouble than it solves. When in doubt, pick up the phone and talk quietly and calmly about difficult situations rather than raising the temperature.

Your sense of justice may feel a bit violated either on your own behalf or maybe social and political issues may be boiling up now. Radical solutions are out there and just need to be activated. This won’t be easy though as the old forces of tradition remain entrenched and resistant to change. See if you can change some of the routines in your life to find time for the causes you believe in.

PUZZLE

SOLUTIONS

To really understand what this means for you on a personal level during 2022, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation that is completely specific to you and your life. This will illuminate many things that you may not have considered and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year. : ; 6 6 +

: 7 9

CAPRICORN December 23 – January 20

You get a few days to dot the ‘i’s’ and cross the ‘t’s’ right at the start of this month and you can sit back for a moment to consider your handiwork. But not for too long because after around 6th of the month, you are going to be surrounded by impatient people with great ideas keen to get going, so it’s best to let them get on with it while you watch and see how things land in a month or so’s time.

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 19

Venus and Mars are in your sign from 6th so your ideas really can have some traction in the minds of other people. You are able to express them very eloquently and to present a compelling vision that people will warm to, because they have been starved of optimism for far too long. There are dangers of overdoing it though, so make sure you convey exactly what you mean.

Chart readings with me start at £67 and last for an hour on Zoom or Skype. Please go to www.astroguidance.co.uk for more details and to book a session. You can also text or WhatsApp me on 07866 727743 or email me at howpark@aol.com for more information. If you are interested in discussing and learning more about astrology, why not pop into my Facebook group The Astrocafe | Facebook.

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

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A fire sign like yours will enjoy the uplift in energy that takes place in the latter part of this month. You are future oriented by nature, so you welcome the new excitement of the spring when all things again seem possible. But don’t forget to use the quieter and more peaceful start to the month for some reflection before you go careering off into the sunset!

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Scorpios can hold grudges that churn around in their head for years! Now, though, it’s the time of year when you have the opportunity to let some of this go, clear out the dark bits in the corner of your mind and get ready for some mental spring cleaning. Try to get this done by about 20th March because that is when the new energy of the year kicks in. You will feel so much better.

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