MK Pulse magazine September 2022

32,000

FREE COPIES DELIVERED DOOR TO DOOR Est. 2009

Issue 155 | September 2022

County-wide news, views and stories

The magazine at the heart of Milton Keynes and Bucks

What’s going on in your local area

S H O U L D I S E L L , O R L E T M Y S E C O N D P RO P E RT Y ?

C O N TAC T T H E FA S T E S T G ROW I N G E S TAT E AG E N T I N M I LTO N K E Y N E S F O R A DV I C E O N H OW TO M A N AG E YO U R P RO P E RT Y TO DAY.

THE HUB, BROOKLYN HOUSE, 7 RILLATON WALK, MK9 2FZ

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09/08/2022 11:54

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

CONTENTS

From the

Editor

September 2022

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

L

ocally produced beer and ice cream are just some of the extra pleasures added to the menu at the MK Gallery Café along with Milk & Beans, the first speciality coffee roaster in Milton Keynes. This month is the perfect time to try their tasty treats.

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Have you ever thought about learning to play the piano?

According to Milton Keynes Pianos more people are now learning a musical instrument. Their modern approach to restoration is giving new life to tuneful treasures that might be 100 years old. Their bolder colours are ideal for homes, businesses and public spaces so look out for some of their work.

We were really pleased to hear about some young people who channelled their creative energies into a school project during lockdown who have now become The Stencil Pencils. The popular song-writing trio of Johnson, Kale and Indiana, who are aged 14, 12, and seven have even come to the attention of Ed Sheeran and Prince Charles – what’s next?

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NEWS

12

LEGAL

20

INTERVIEW

26

STENCIL PENCILS

32

BUSINESS

36

PULSE PICS

Last, but definitely not least, take a look at our ‘What’s on’ pages to find out about all the exciting and enticing events and performances you can look forward to this month. There’s DJ Scissors at the Craufurd Arms, heritage open days or the Penguin Café at The Stables. And don’t forget Cycle for Cynthia on the 25th, whether you’re taking a gentler five or 10 mile route or are ready for a more ambitious 25 or 50 mile ride.

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MK PRIDE

42

FASHION

44

FOOD & DRINK

50

HOME & GARDEN

Enjoy yourselves.

56

INTERIORS

62

MUSIC

64

WHAT’S ON

69

THEATRE

70

MOTORING

71

PUZZLES

72

YOUR STARS

This year’s Pride Festival on 10 September will build on the success of last year’s colourful, inclusive, and family-friendly event to create something special for the city. The event at Campbell Park will be a celebration of everything the LGBTQ+ community has to offer and everyone will be welcome to join in the fun.

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 MONDAY12TH 8TH SEPTEMBER FEBRUARY 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.

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

Visit your local Milton Keynes Showroom today.

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LOCAL NEWS

‘Rooted in the community’: MK Gallery Café further supports local producers Regulars at MK Gallery Café enjoy a menu that features treats produced locally. Now the venue has added four more local businesses to its list of suppliers.

‘The gallery is rooted in the community and we are keen to support our existing links and build more across all areas of the organisation’

M

ilk & Beans, the first speciality coffee roaster in Milton Keynes, is joined by The Willen Ice Cream Company, Blackened Sun Brewing Company, a micro craft brewery in Stacey Bushes, and Bucks Brothers, three brothers born and raised in Buckinghamshire distilling some special gins.

Products from all four are now on the menu at the café.

Carlo Scarito, owner of Milk & Beans, held a training session with café staff to explain the provenance of the Mió Brazilian beans.”It is important to me that customers know about the beans they are buying,” he says.

“We are all becoming more invested in what we buy - where it was made, who made it being part of ethical trade.”

Richard Gordon, owner of the Willen

ice Cream Company, is a regular at farmers’markets around the area. The MK Gallery Café has chosen to sell five of its flavours: House of Luke, Foxdenton Dark Lantern Rum & Raisin, Strawberry, Simply

Dairy; and Passionfruit Sorbet.

“We have a lot in common,” says Richard.

“We source locally, are community focused… and love ice cream.”

Microbrewery Blackened Sun Brewing Company’s owner Gary Morse is a keen supporter of MK Gallery and its place in the community. “We have enjoyed hosting beer tasting sessions for the café team,” he says.

There was a healthy debate about which of our beers would be suited to their audience.”

As the renaissance of gin continues in the UK, the gallery is keen to offer a local brand.

Bucks Brothers Gin set up during lockdown and distils gin at its base in Little Horwood with flavours inspired by local heritage. Its pomegranate and sloe gin liqueur is already on sale in the café.

“Working with local suppliers is important to us,” says Andrew Papworth, MK Gallery’s head of events and catering. “The gallery is rooted in the community and we are keen to support our existing links and build more across all areas of the organisation.”

All profits from the café go back into supporting MK Gallery’s exhibitions, learning and community programme, he adds.

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

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5

LOCAL NEWS

Mayor hails the benefits of joining the Scouts Opportunities to make new friends, to learn new skills and to socialise… three fantastic reasons for young people to consider joining the Scouts, according to Milton Keynes Mayor Cllr Amanda Marlow.

S

he was speaking at an event for more than 820 Beaver Scouts aged between six and eight.

More than 3,500 youngsters across Buckinghamshire want to join the Scouts every year and now the movement is seeking adult volunteers so it can accommodate all those looking to join.

“All of the sections give children and young people the opportunity to try something new,” said Cllr Marlow. “Whether it’s going on the climbing wall, inside a zorb or learning some circus stills, the children will have lots of fun and adventure “Scouts also provide children with so many opportunities to make friends, to socialise with others and is very rewarding for them. They will learn skills that will help them as they get older

Cllr Amanda Marlow (pictured right): ‘Scouting teaches children and young people independence skills and resilience’

and become young people and adults.”

A total 54 Scouts aged 14 to 17 will be going to South Korea in 2023 to participate in the World Scout Jamboree with 40,000 others of the same age from

nearly every country in the world.

“This is why Scouts is so unique in providing so many opportunities for children, young people and adult volunteers,” said Cllr Marlow. “I think that scouting teaches children and

young people independence skills and resilience. It also encourages them to use their imagination as well as making friendships that will be outside their schools.”

James Palin, lead volunteer for Buckinghamshire Scouts, said the movement was calling for volunteers to work with young Scouts aged between four and teenage.

“We are also looking for people who can volunteer in the background by looking after equipment, handling money or managing volunteers,” he added. “We offer an awardwinning training programme that people can do at their own pace and this can lead to a formal qualification.” >> Find out more about volunteering at scouts.org.uk

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7

CAMPING HOLIDAY FEATURE

Summer holidays will soon be a distant memory, but it is not too early to plan the next escape.

And what better way to get away from it all than in a hi-spec VW campervan that can transform a few days away into a memorable adventure?

Hire company VW Camper Holiday, based at Ecton, near Northampton, offers the ideal solution to those people looking for a break this coming autumn. There is still availability for the company’s campervans which boast an impressive spec’ to meet the comfort needs of up to four people.

“I found hiring a van a tedious process.

Getting in touch with hire companies and then finding out there is no availability,” said Chris.

“I thought there was a better way to hire vans so decided to take the plunge and invested in campervans which would meet my requirements. It was important to make the hire process simple and to ensure clients can easily communicate regarding their camper booking.”

ho

The super modern 7 speed automatic campers were professionally built in 2022 and boast a wealth of features from a fridge, gas cooking, night heater and even hot shower. Two swivel captain-style seats mean the driving experience is comfortable and living area spacious.

This fresh approach means there is growing demand for the vans. Extras like bike racks are options and even trips to mainland Europe are possible.

Many clients are looking to invest in their own campervan and see it as an opportunity to ‘try before they buy’.

There’s something about the freedom of hiring a campervan and heading off for a break with no pressure on being at a certain place at a certain time. Hire costs are no more than what it would cost to stay in a hotel but without the versatility. Plus well behaved dogs are welcome travel guests.

Chris Ellis, VW Camper Holiday

Campervans Holly & Cammy

HIRE ONE OF OUR SUPERB VW CAMPERVANS & START PLANNING YOUR HOLIDAY

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September 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine | 32,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Milton Keynes 8 hire@vwcamperholiday.com I vwcamperholiday.com I Tel 01604 411759

Our fully equipped 2022 VW Campervans are fitted with a high spec leisure batteries, solar panels, fridge, running water, sink, gas hob, 240v hook-up for campsites, night heating, roll out awning and hot water shower!

The campers are fitted with 2 x swivelling captain seats, 2 rear seats (with isofix) and sleeps 4 with double rib bed and panoramic pop-top roof bed, storage cupboards, 4G Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, Phone connection & Bluetooth.

Visit our website for full details and availablity or make an appointment to have a look around one of our Campers in Ecton, Northamptonshire.

Rental starts from £595 for a full week in low season - weekend and mid-week hire also available. What’s stopping you?

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11/02/2022 For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | September 2022 12:149

Thinking of relationship support?

Making the decision to transform your relationships and wellbeing can feel like a big step but it’s also a really positive one.

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We offer a range of services From romance to roommates, from colleagues to co-parents our highlyskilled therapists can give you the support you need in a way that suits you.

At Relate Milton Keynes our services include: • Relationship Counselling for individuals or partners • Family Counselling • Young People’s Counselling (from 11 years of age) • Sex Therapy • Couple Therapy for Depression • Family Mediation

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LEGAL

Residence Nil Rate Bands and Unmarried Couples...

Surinderpal Singh and the wills, trusts and probate team provide effective and proactive guidance when dealing with estates and estate planning.

Artemis House, 4 Bramley Road Milton Keynes MK1 1PT

W

e have witnessed property price inflation over the past several years, however, the inheritance tax thresholds have not followed suit and therefore liability to inheritance tax has become an increasing threat to family wealth.

Complications have arisen where a deceased leaves their share in a property on trust for the benefit of another, usually in the form of a right of occupation, for a period of time or, for the lifetime of the occupier, before it is ultimately inherited by a descendant.

An individual’s Nil Rate Band remains at £325,000, that is, inheritance tax up to that value in an estate is taxed at Nil %. A taxable estate in excess of that is liable to inheritance tax at 40%.

Trust arrangements are often employed in Wills to negate the surviving property owner falling liable to care fees on the deceased’s owner’s portion of a property.

This can be onerous upon the estate’s beneficiaries; inheritance is payable before access to the deceased’s estate can be obtained. It is therefore important to use all the inheritance tax reliefs available.

Often, the deceased’s property is the main asset within an estate. The Residence Nil Rate Band can only attract against one property. Even if the deceased had not recently lived in the property, provided it remains part of their estate at the time of death, the Residence Nil Rate Band can be used.

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

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

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The Residence Nil Rate Band is available if the deceased owned a residential property at the time of their death in which they previously resided and, by virtue of their Will, or the rules intestacy, that property is being inherited by children, grandchildren or subsequent generation. The Residence Nil Rate Band can supplement an estate’s Nil Rate Band to the tune of £175,000, making for a combined individual total of £500,000 before an estate becomes taxable, in simple terms.

Depending on the wording of the deceased’s Will or, whether they were married to the individual being left the right of occupation, can determine whether the additional £175,000 is available or not.

Not acting soon enough after someone’s death can mean that the opportunity to remedy any defective Will clause is lost.

Practically, outstanding Will issues can mean that a deceased’s beneficiaries can be faced with a significant inheritance tax bill whilst at the same time being kept from their gifts for an uncertain period of time.

If you are worried about your future estate being at risk to inheritance tax it is always best to take periodic advice to ensure that your Will is up-to-date with the latest legislation and decided case law.

For more information, please visit our wesite www.healdlaw.com or scan the QR code on the left.

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

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

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PIANOS

Breathing new colour into pianos Milton Keynes Pianos is hitting the right notes for local pianists and music lovers with its modern approach to piano restoration, Pulse went along to their workshop to take a closer look.

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growing number of people looking to learn an instrument or simply escape life’s everyday challenges are taking time out to play the piano.

The basic design of the piano has not changed much since its invention around 300 years ago. There are many pianos still being played and enjoyed today that were built more than a century ago, But forget traditional brown furniture now companies like Milton Keynes Pianos are leading the way in giving pianos a fresh new look through their bespoke refurbishment service. Neutrals and greys may still be popular but there is growing demand for brighter, bolder colours putting pianos centre stage in homes, businesses and public spaces.

Martin Porter from Milton Keynes Pianos said: “It is nice to see such an interest in taking up the piano or coming back to playing after a few years absence.

A piano is a beautiful piece of furniture for the home, as well as an instrument, which is why we try and save as many of the older, better built pianos as we can.

“Many of the antique pianos made by quality English and German makers are fine instruments.

A passion for bringing old pianos to life Martin Porter

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The John Broadwood piano in pride of place at The Bee House in Oxford

Once restored these pianos will go on to give many years of playing enjoyment.”

But while the notes may still sound the same the looks are now a far cry from the traditional, with customers commissioning the family business for oneoff pianos. This includes glass panels and LED lights to show off the instrument’s internal workings.

Martin said: “This really makes sense, as there is an enormous amount of work that goes into restoring an action and then it never gets seen.

“We refinish by hand or use a spray coat, depending on the finish requirement, and work with top brands such as Craig & Rose.

“Our pianos go all over the country, into private homes, as well as recently to recording studios in London. Another commission was for a bright yellow John Broadwood upright as a centre piece for a bee-themed café in Oxford.

I must admit, we weren’t sure initially when we started it, but it turned out very nicely.

“It’s nice to be able to breathe new life into these old instruments.”

Get in tune Milton Keynes Pianos offers a wide range of pianos, from new models to pre-owned instruments which are fully serviced including leading brands like Yamaha and Kawai.

These pianos undergo a full service before finding new homes with pianists including beginners starting out on their playing journey. Martin, who has more than 30 years’ experience, is able to advise on the instrument suited to specific needs.

The service includes delivery, tuning and warranty. Rental and payment plans are available.

Milton Keynes Pianos is situated in the beautiful, relaxing rural environment of Cooksoe Farm, Chicheley.

Find Milton Keynes Pianos on social media including Facebook, Instagram and Etsy or visit the showroom north of Newport Pagnell.

There is free parking, an onsite workshop and showroom, incorporating a practice room that is available to hire.

A call or email is always advisable before setting off, to ensure one of the team will be available.

Call: 0333 259 0945 or 07752 332325 Email: miltonkeynespianos@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

15

Give

yourself a

break Have you ever considered care in your or your loved one's own home as an option? Would you love to have some time away but don't know who would provide that same care to your family member if you took time out?

Well, Home Instead Milton Keynes regularly step in to provide that care. We can give you peace of mind that someone will be there 24 hours a day. Even if you're only looking for that extra help for a couple of weeks, we can still help.

You might be eager to get away for a week or two on holiday or you have an important work commitment which means you can't provide the regular visits to your family member. That's where we can help and be there instead. Our fully trained Care Professionals are matched to our clients on an individual basis.

'you can't pour from an empty cup' An old saying comes to mind, 'you can't pour from an empty cup'. The importance of selfcare when you're caring for relatives should not be underestimated. Your loved ones might rely on you daily to get them up, dressed and preparing proper meals. Maybe they need you there for company, to play a game of cards or do the crossword in the paper; but we're only human and everyone needs time to recharge. We're very good at just getting on with it, making it happen, taking the burden of responsibility and it doesn't have to be that way. There are always options and it's important we consider those options.

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Call us today on 01908 774333 and talk to us about how we could help with live-in care. Alternatively email sarah.marquiss@homeinstead.co.uk © 2022 Home Instead, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Each Home Instead franchise office is independently owned and operated.

16

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

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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community by taking a private guided tour of the facilities. The return of monthly events that bring live entertainment to the communities' doorsteps and guarantee the most showstopping acts in town has received a very warm reception from residents and members of the local community, and you’re invited to join them.

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

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Price: £25 per adult Denby Pottery Village has the largest selection of Denby stoneware in the world.

The Factory Shop is home to both the latest designs and discontinued ranges in quality seconds, glass, and accessories. Discounts start from 30% off RRP on new and current lines, with up to 60% off RRP on discontinued and clearance patterns. Also, on site is: gift & card shop, the Denby garden stall, ginger butchers farm shop, Bourne’s kitchen is open daily serving hot dishes Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 8.30am and leaves Denby Pottery Village at 3.30pm.

Price: £25 per adult, £15 per child 3-16yrs, under 3s free of charge.

Denby Pottery Village

SAT 10th SEPT ‘22

Birmingham International Tattoo Price: £58 over 60s, £57 per adult 2-16yrs, £60 per adult. Includes entrance fee.

World resorts Arena Birmingham. Britain’s biggest indoor international tattoo with over 1,200 performers. With marching bands, exciting displays and culminating in the spectacular grand finale featuring all the performers in a spectacle of pomp and pageantry. *Please be aware that the seating area is accessed by stairs, which may not be suitable for people with mobility issues* Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 3.30pm and leaves Birmingham at 9.30pm.

St Albans Traditional Market Day

The market is steeped in history with a special Royal Charter granted in 1553 but the market is well documented as far back as the 9th century. There are stalls selling hot and cold food, sweet and savoury bakeries and other items of street food. Boasting over 160 stalls the market offers a wide range of items from clothes, homeware, local produce, electrical and much more.

Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 9am and leaves St Albans at 3pm.

SAT 17th SEP ‘22

True Crime Museum & Hastings

True crime museum entry £35 per person, without museum entry £25 per person.

The True Crime Museum is a SHOCKING new attraction for everyone fascinated by the dark world of crime. Set in 3,000 sq. ft. of seafront caves, it is the largest collection of crime memorabilia in the UK. Once our tour of the true crime museum is over, you’ll have free time in Hastings. If you decide not to visit the museum, then you can spend the day walking around the narrow streets of Hastings visiting the many unique shops or walk along the pier.

Leaves from Bill’s Coach and Minibus Hire at 7.30am and leaves Hastings at 5.30pm.

Call 01908 613000 to book or for more information.

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

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

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Image: Larry Achiampong, Wayfinder, 2022. Courtesy of the artist and Copperfield, London.

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

19

INTERVIEW

‘I can’t do Strictly on Saturday and on Monday be at a crime scene’

If you want to get an insight into the mind of a killer, Professor David Wilson is a fountain of knowledge having worked with many of them.

He visited Waterstones in Milton Keynes to talk about his current book, and while there the criminologist spoke with Pulse’s Sammy Jones about a most fascinating career...

20

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

INTERVIEW

P

rofessor David Wilson has worked with more serial killers and high profile offenders than most, but it wasn’t until researching the man ‘off the telly’ and author of many true crime books that I learned he has been the victim of crime himself.

You are probably expecting some terrifying ordeal at the hand of a high-profile criminal during a visit behind bars, but you would be wrong – it was a sexual assault in plain sight of people at a literary event.

David wrote about the incident which is where I happened upon it.

“What I found really interesting about that article is that it really was the straw that broke the camel’s back,” David says, as we chat in the cafe of Waterstones bookstore in Central Milton Keynes.

“The woman came up and squeezed my nipple so hard I screamed, but everybody in the queue laughed, and I said ‘What if I had done that to you?’

“It was a sexual assault and I thought, ‘I am going to try to talk about this.’

“The irony about that article was that it had one comment online and it was, ‘Well he is quite good looking, isn’t he?’

“I thought, ‘what was the point of raising this as an issue?”

While there is no excuse for that sort of behaviour, with a high profile comes more attention – and David is certainly a well-known figure in a fairly unique position.

The Scottish born Professor Emeritus of Criminology has unparalleled knowledge in his field of expertise. His career has seen him work as a Prison Governor for a significant spell, and he spent time at prisons including Grendon, Wormwood Scrubs and here in Milton Keynes, at Woodhill, where he helped to design and run two units for the 12 most violent prisoners in the country.

That work saw him in contact with nearly every recent serial killer.

Professor David Wilson

“Woodhill was a fabulous experience,” he says, “I had just finished working at Grendon which is the only prison in the whole of Europe which operates as a psycho dynamic therapeutic community, which means all of the prisoners are in therapy.

“Every day they talk about their childhood, their upbringing, their peers, their parents and why they offended, and that’s how I learned about violence – through violent men talking about how and when they used violence.

“It was because of the experiences I had there that I was asked to work on the units

We used psychology and criminology thinking of how to design the unit, how to train the staff, how to manage the prisoners.

Most violence occurs in environments that are hot, polluted and overcrowded.”

for the most disruptive prisoners in the country.”

And just how do you make a difference in those pressurised environments?

“We used psychology and criminology thinking of how to design the unit, how to train the staff, how to manage the prisoners. Most violence occurs in environments that are hot, polluted and overcrowded.

“One of the things you can do to reduce the amount of violence is to manipulate the temperature. You can give a sense of space so you don’t feel overcrowded, and polluted. We banned smoking in common areas.

“We did lots of things that at the time were regarded as extraordinarily innovative.”

David, who now lives close to Milton Keynes, is talking with me prior to hosting a talk in the bookstore. A little later he will deliver a particularly engaging event for ticket holders.

There is no fidgeting or waning of interest when he speaks; they all want to know about the people David has encountered - they want to pick the brains of the man who has picked the brains of those responsible for often abhorrent crimes.

One of those crimes, the one he has written a book about most recently, made national news when the shocking truth was uncovered.

A Plot to Kill explores the background to the murder of Peter Farquhar, a lecturer at Buckingham University. As the book jacket says so succinctly, it is ‘ the true story of deception, betrayal and murder that shocked a quiet English town.’

Did you not think it was a little ‘too close to home’ to write about?

“Totally,” he says without hesitation, relaying a story about a previous book that his sisters had spent years badgering him to write, about a murder in the town where he grew up.

Eventually, he had put pen to paper for Signs of Murder.

“It took me less than two months research to work out that the man convicted of the murder hadn’t done the murder, so the whole book was

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

21

INTERVIEW

Professor David Wilson pictured with Sammy Jones at the Waterstones book signing

about, ‘if he didn’t do it, who did?’

“That book ends by me knocking on that man’s door and saying ‘You did the murder.’

He wasn’t very pleased...”

When it was released, the page- turner brought things to the surface that had been buried for half a century.

“People were very affected by it,” he admitted.

The tensions that rose by writing about a murder 50 years ago made him hesitant to cover one that happened as recently as 2015 on his doorstep.

“But everybody - the woman in Waitrose, my dentist, people in the butchers were asking, ‘Are you gonna write about the murder of Peter Farquhar? ‘ I went to the trial and thought, ‘Oh my god, this is real psychopathy on show...’

David doesn’t mention many murderers or high-profile prisoners by name during our chat (‘...because in my experience they rather like it, because most of them are narcissistic’), although notorious serial killer Dennis Nilsen is one exception, and he maintained correspondence with David until his death in 2018.

It’s one thing interviewing a temperamental old theatre-star or a vacuous musician (we’ve done both in our time), but that’s a world apart from facing up to a murderer. How does that work?

“You try to be empathetic,” David says, “You try to walk in their shoes. You use the skills of friendship, except you’re not trying to make a friend, so you try to get them to open up. And then you have a problem, which is can you trust them?

“Have they actually been telling you the truth?

Which is one of the debates I’ve always had about Nilsen.”

And there are some prisoners who look at the chance to chat to David as good for their status.

“A lot of the people I interview would score highly clinically in relation to being psychopaths and they’ve got a streak of narcissism - they want me to interview them, because I’m the ‘top bloke’.”

David’s work as a presenter and commentator means he is regularly on the small screen and in 2021 he teamed up with Emilia Fox for the Channel 4 series, In the Footsteps of Killers.

A second series will air this year.

Murderers, their crimes, and their victims interest many of us, and when we turn on the 22

TV we do so out of interest and curiosity. There is obviously an element of entertainment too.

But not for the families of the victims. Not that David needs a reminder.

“Those are absolutely fair observations to make. There has to be a balance, doesn’t there?” he says, but it’s a statement, not a question.

“I still advise on live cases, and I still provide training for homicide detectives, and there has to be a balance whereby I can’t do Strictly on Saturday and on Monday be at a crime scene.

How would the family of the victim feel?

“I have had to face some of those issues in terms of where I am in my career, and I have to be very conscious about what I’ll do, or not do.

“Emelia and I were going to do Celebrity Hunted together,” he reveals, “It was for Stand Up For Cancer and we felt it was something legitimate that I could do with her, but as it happened I was filming for BBC Scotland and she had another run of Silent Witness and the dates didn’t work out. But I do choose what I do very carefully.”

I just feel what we do in this country is lock up too many people we are simply angry with. I really do believe we should be investing much more in childhood interventions.”

David is the chair of Grendon Friends Trust, a charity supporting that aforementioned therapy programme at HMP Grendon. It’s groundbreaking and important work being undertaken there, and he is passionate about it; “It is the only prison that can demonstrate a treatment effect; if you go to Grendon for at least two years you are statistically less likely to offend once you’ve been released.”

Naturally, David wants the public to be protected and where necessary he knows people need to be behind bars, but he thinks we put away too many.

“I use a phrase, ‘we should lock up the people we are scared of, rather than the people we are mad at.’

“I just feel what we do in this country is lock up too many people we are simply angry with.

I really do believe we should be investing much more in childhood interventions.

“So often prison is dealing with the failures of schools, the care system, the mental health outreach, drug addiction. Prison is being asked to look after people who have never been looked after in the past and by the time they get there it’s too late.

“Rather than investing in the back end, which is a prison in our culture, let’s invest in the front end - which would be childhood support.”

David’s current research interests, listed on his website, include ‘the phenomenon of British serial murder, family annihilation, hitmen and lethal violence within organised crime, to all aspects of prison history and penal reform.’

He has seen more of the evil that men (and women) do than most of us, but can still be shocked by the levels of depravity one person can inflict on another.

“There was a lot of overkill during Covid, a lot of domestic violence and women being murdered using more violence than necessary to kill the person, and there was a lot of beheading and other kinds of dreadful things...”

And in today’s society, technology puts the goriest of things in easy reach – beheadings are a mere click away online: “I swear when I start the first year lectures, I ask the students, ‘How many of you have seen a beheading video?’ I have a first year of about 350 and all of them have. It’s the commodification of extreme violence and that’s a really worrying phenomenon.”

And yet, David has no problem getting a good night’s sleep. How does he decompress?

“I always say you’ve got to compartmentalise,” he says with a lesson for the insomniacs among us, “I have been married for over 30 years, I love people, I love my wife, I love my children,” he smiles, “I am a huge Northampton Saints man and a season ticket holder at Franklins Gardens...

“The key thing is love,” David promises, “...there is always light that illuminates the gloom.”

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

THE POWER

of Three

The Power of 3 runs through the core of OCM as we have three professional disciplines brought together allowing us to deliver such a powerful client focused proposition.

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

Turning “Can We?” into “We Can!”

WE CAN

at Northampton High School

inspire & be inspired

A

t Northampton High School, we believe in a complete education that’s made for girls and young women.

Everything about our school is carefully considered from our purpose-built site to our inspirational teachers and our first-class pastoral care.

Our school is bursting with spirited students who we encourage to learn without limits. We’re not here to pigeonhole or conform to stereotypes. Instead, we encourage our girls to be curious and independent, resilient and brave; to lead and be individuals whilst recognising the value of collaboration and teamwork.

LILY, 11, FUTURE COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER

In doing so, we turn “can we?” into “we can!”, unleashing the potential in a generation of girls and young women who can go on and define a future on their own terms.

We’d love to tell you how

we are, but we simply don’t have the space here!

What we can tell you is, “We are a small school with a

BIG

heart”

“All pupils achieve good levels of progress because they are encouraged to be curious.”

“Innovative approaches to learning encourage all pupils to develop their talents and try new things.”

SIAMS inspection March 2022

OFSTED and SIAMS rated GOOD We have spaces available in all year groups

Bow Brickhill CofE Primary School 01908 373672 office@bowbrickhillprimary.co.uk

OPEN DAY SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER 2022, 10:00AM - 1PM northamptonhigh.co.uk | 01604 765765

Now taking registrations

Come and visit us. Open Day, Saturday 1 October from 10am to 1pm. Visit northamptonhigh.co.uk or call 01604 765765 to book your place.

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

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

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

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

24

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

RESTAURANT & BAR

Dine with us Choose from delicious stone baked pizzas, mouth-watering burgers, classic pasta dishes or choose from the Grill.

Vegan and Gluten-free dishes available.

Order your take away direct from our website:

www.olneyskitchen.uk/olney

36a Market Place, Olney, MK46 4AJ 01234 717000 info@olneyskitchen.uk

INTERVIEW

We are all one big family!

What started as a school project during lockdown has since turned three youngsters from Milton Keynes into superstars in the making.

Sammy Jones got the gist from The Stencil Pencils over waffles and shakes!

M

eeting in a waffle bar in the heart of the newly crowned city is a novelty – band interviews usually involve nursing a pint somewhere, but that wouldn’t work here: Johnson, Kale and Indiana are aged 14, 12 and seven respectively. Pub chat will have to wait.

That aforementioned school project – to write a song or a poem – unleashed a collective talent, and The Stencil Pencils are most certainly rolling with it.

In the two years that have followed since they wrote Quarantine/Covid19, the trio have received correspondence from Ed Sheeran and Prince Charles (“He sent me a letter saying he likes our music a lot and wishes us the best,” Kale says), and been invited to perform at the palace – yep, that palace.

“That’s actually quite cool,” says Johnson, “Who else is invited to play at the palace?”

Music hasn’t happened by accident here; the family has always had a love for sounds – and the kids would improvise when necessary.

“Me and Johnson always loved music,” Kale remembers, “When we were much younger we snuck into the kitchen and started playing on the pots and pans like they were drums!”

When they posted their first song to YouTube, the warm response they received made them decide to try and sharpen those pencils into a taut musical proposition.

The Stencil Pencils proudly call themselves ‘the world’s youngest Asperger’s band,’ but only Kale has the condition, which is a form of autism.

“That was another reason we decided to start the band,” Johnson explained, “... to give Kale a voice. I think it’s also to inspire other children, not only other children with disabilities, but every child to have a voice. People put Kale down and say, ‘He won’t be able to do something as good as someone else, because he has autism,’ which is not the case.

26

The Stencil Pencils - We are family: Kale, Indiana and Johnson stick together

“We need to show people what other children can do, and that even if you have a disability you are the same as anyone else.”

As for Kale? He takes the condition in his stride.

“Many people say I just have a disability, but I call it my ability, because I get to see the world in a different way. I see things very differently from others and sometimes I won’t recognise things as much...

“We were at the park the other day and there was a bench and it said that someone had passed away and I thought it meant that someone had passed on the bench, because I see messages like that on benches all the time...

“I never realised that people put it there as a memorial!”

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

TSP pose for a photo with Jo Whiley at Camp Bestival

INTERVIEW

The Stencil Pencils on stage

Kale isn’t keen to blend in anyway – occasionally, he’ll put on a little bit of make-up, or paint his nails. Alice Cooper, T-Rex, Bowie and many others got busy with the beauty products over the decades. It’s not that unusual. But it has still made him a target for bullies.

“I identify as a boy, but sometimes I wear make-up or face jewellery,” he says, shrugging his shoulders and displaying a rare blase attitude, “I like doing it – it makes me feel a bit different to other people. I have been bullied a lot,” he admits, “It’s alright, they don’t know anything about me.”

Big brother Johnson is the voice of reason.

“Usually people bully because they have been bullied, or they are not coping with something at home, or there is something wrong.

“I know they are being mean and horrible, but it is good to try and speak to them, because something is going wrong in their lives and they are taking it out on you.”

Perhaps it’s jealousy that results in the negativity – after all, The Stencil Pencils are now a name to reckon with locally.

They have gone from performing in care homes to switching on the CMK Christmas lights, have found a friend in MK Dons chairman Pete Winkelman and this summer have been rubbing shoulders with Rag’n’Bone Man and DJ Jo Whiley while sharing festival stages.

They made such an impression at Camp Bestival that esteemed promoter Rob da Bank contacted them to tell them how great he thought they were!

“We were just doing it as a bit of fun,” starts Kale, before Johnson finishes his line, “Now it’s almost become a full time job!”

Pic: Lee Scriven

Do you get those pre-show jitters?

“Our singing teacher Natalie tells us that nerves and anxiety is just excitement, so usually we are excited, and we handle it very well,” Johnson says with an air of confidence.

Indiana is the baby of the band and largely the quietest during our chat. While the rest of us talk, she works diligently to clear her waffle desert, but make no mistake, she is one sassy little lady.

As a dedicated follower of Taylor Swift and Harry Styles, she brings the pop persuasion to the mix, while Johnson favours hip hop and grime.

‘Old soul’ Kale is more likely to be found spinning Boy George, Sam Cooke or Michael Jackson.

And they do quite literally spin the tunes too – The Stencil Pencils now have their own radio show on MKFM. They use the platform to spread their environmental messages, and if they really are the shape of things to come, we might be able to move forward with hope after all.

“When Greta Thunberg speaks about global warming we fully agree with her, and she says it in such a powerful way. If we don’t stop it, future generations aren’t going to be living how our generation lives and how older generations lived.”

Indiana has now finished that waffle and the rising superstar, who also does a star turn as cheerleading flyer, has something to say about MK. For the most part, it’s positive, but not always.

“What I don’t like is that people keep building a lot of houses and it means there’s not a lot of land for the animals!”

Pete Winkelman with TSP

Remember when children were meant to be ‘seen and not heard’?

The disappearance of those days is giving way to a new breed of bold, passionate and smart young people. Tackle them on race, religion or sexual orientation and they prove just how together they are.

“It doesn’t really matter if you are non-binary, if you are straight, if you are gay, we don’t really mind...” says Johnson.

“We accept you,” Kale says, “Like racism, people are going around calling others really horrible words, and saying ‘you should stay over there, you shouldn’t be in my country.’

“We don’t believe in that - we are all one big family.

“The Stencil Pencils stand for diversity and inclusion. Our end goal is to make sure we have done our best to make everyone feel loved,” Johnson says.

“We don’t judge people about their eye colour or what colour they have on their nails,” Kale adds, ‘So why are we fighting about the skin colour we have?” he asks, “We should all love each other the same.”

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

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

29

RELATIONSHIPS

Separation – at what point should you take legal advice?

The straightforward answer is – as soon as possible.

P

prejudice your position in the long term. By speaking to a solicitor early on, you can ensure that you make fully informed decisions about the family home and its occupation, as well as understanding what your options are if sharing the property does become intolerable.

1. Children If you have children with your partner, then the most important consideration should be making arrangements for them, including, where appropriate, agreeing the level of time which your children will spend with each parent.

The biggest concern for any parent on separation will be the impact that separation will have on their relationship with their child. Taking advice early will ensure you know what your rights are as a parent, what steps you can take to ensure a good coparenting relationship moving forwards and what resources are available to help you and your children process the separation.

3. Finances On separation, you will need to consider your financial situation and how joint finances will be managed moving forwards. For married couples, consideration will need to be given to income (including bonuses), property and other capital assets such as share structures, business interests and occasionally management of family businesses and finally the sharing of pensions. There are, of course, tax benefits to dealing with asset transfers within the tax year of separation and so early advice and early agreement with your partner can help you to take advantage of those benefits. A solicitor can help you to work out the most sensible way of managing your finances post separation.

eople have different views about the right time to take legal advice when considering a separation.

Some will come to see a solicitor before they have even told their partner of their decision. Others will wait until they simply cannot see a way forwards without the benefit of legal advice.

Tina Shah Associate - Divorce and Family Law Neves Solicitors LLP Aurora House Deltic Avenue Rooksley Milton Keynes MK13 8LW

01908 304560 www.nevesllp.co.uk

2. The family home This is often the most difficult topic for separating parties to discuss – what will happen to the family home. You may wish to consider the following: – Who will reside in the family home?

– The importance of any children of the family remaining in the family home – Payment of the mortgage and other outgoings on a short-term and long-term basis Once you are separated, it is fair to say that living under the same roof could be difficult. Equally, moving out may

30

Most importantly, taking advice at an early stage will ensure that you are making decisions which safeguards your interests and protect the welfare of your children. It will enable you to have discussions with your partner or enter into mediation with confidence, knowing where you stand legally and what your options are. Seeking help does not have to be a signal of war, but rather a sensible step to ensure stability for your future.

If you would like advice and support regarding your separation, please get in touch with Tina or another member of our family team.

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

Local man cleans up in MK Harvey Rainbow launched his oven cleaning business as part of the Oven Wizards franchise and is now offering his services across Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell and surrounding areas.

As well as Milton Keynes, and Newport Pagnell, Harvey also covers Olney, Stony Stratford, Bletchley, Woburn and surrounding areas

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

arvey has lived and worked in the local area all his life, so, as he knows the area really well, he believes there will be a strong demand for his services.

Harvey said “I was looking for a business that would be something I would enjoy doing and would provide a great service to local people. I came across the idea of an oven cleaning business and started to research the market. I soon realised that becoming an Oven Wizard offered me a great opportunity, particularly with the support of a successful franchise brand.”

John Graham, owner of the Oven Wizards business said “From the first time we met Harvey and his wife Amie, we knew he would make a great success of running an Oven Wizards Franchise, particularly because of his great passion for friendly customer service.”

John went on to explain “There is a growing demand from people who want to have their ovens professionally cleaned because it is probably the hardest and most hated job in most households.”

Oven Wizards have provided Harvey with comprehensive training which will enable him to professionally clean all sorts of makes and models of ovens.

As well as Milton Keynes, and Newport Pagnell, Harvey also covers Olney, Stony Stratford, Bletchley, Woburn and surrounding areas.

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

31

BUSINESS

The Hitlist: Getting Bigger and Better Business from Your Website After a few months’ hiatus (a baby came along!) I am back with my monthly Pulse business feature. This month, I introduce a new set of articles called ‘The Hitlist’. This will be a series of short lists: The very best things you can do to improve different parts of your business.

After all, who doesn’t like a clear and defined set of actions that can be readily applied and will make a noticeable difference, right?

This month, the focus is your website, which is the most central communication piece in your business. One way or another, all roads lead through or to your website so it has to be as good as it can be, no compromises.

Darren Isaac is the owner of TFA, a multi-award-winning brand, marketing and creative agency.

56 The Triangle The Carriage Works Wolverton Park Rd Milton Keynes MK12 5FJ

www.t-f-a.co.uk 01908 263650

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OVERVIEW A few years ago, TFA redefined its brand positioning (how we portray where we sit in the market) and with that, totally changed our website. We went from being a somewhat small-minded, boutique-like design agency to a marketing consultancy with a focus on building brands. By shifting our stance, simplifying the design to feel ‘bigger’ and add confidence, we created a strong perception of being a much bigger organisation with bigger capabilities. This inevitably led to us winning bigger clients, bigger deals and becoming what we wanted to be – we are now nearing a team of 30-strong. The overriding point here is, you have to portray an image of where you want to be, not where you are now (even worse, where you were five years ago).

The following Hitlist will give you my top, actionable tasks for making your website pull in more visitor traffic and convert more of it into bigger and better enquiries.

HITPOINT 1: Polish up the first impressions of your brand and website experience.

Before we look at anything else, there is little point sending anyone to a bad website. It is not only useless, it is destructive for your brand perception and business. How old is your website? If it has been five years or more since any major changes you should review it and see if the overall style, tone and message truly reflect the business you are now or aim to become in the next five years. Remember, it’s about pitching the business you expect to be in the future and not what you are or you were.

I cannot begin to tell you how, in my line of work, I see literally hundreds of websites that fall drastically short of this, look old, tired, dated, amateurish or flat out don’t even work properly on current browsers and devices.

If this is your website, you need to consider the scale of change required and properly invest in it: • Does the DESIGN look tired and dated? If yes, it needs a design refresh to the front-end as a minimum. At the same time, you really must consider your company branding. If your logo is showing its age, update it. Evolution is often better than revolution but please make sure you do change and keep up with the times in some capacity.

• Is the CONTENT outdated or does it lack clout? If yes, you need to write new content and consider new images of your business.

(Photography and video is much cheaper than it used to be and a hugely valuable investment).

• Is the TECHNICAL build of the site failing? If there are security issues, it takes a long time to load, it doesn’t look very good on mobile devices or things are simply broken then

you need to look at a much bigger upgrade.

Unfortunately, this usually means a brand new site and not a sticking plaster (bad idea).

Google will punish you severely in search results for any one of those issues; you may not even rank at all, they’re that important now.

HITPOINT 2: Fix the main problems with usability, bounce rate and your core vitals You can send hundreds, thousands, even tens of thousands of visitors to a site but, if it falls down on the user experience, they will come to nothing. The elements in Hitpoint 1 will address the overall look and feel of the site but the experience a user receives has a major impact on several things: 1) how long they stay on the site – you have seconds to keep them before they leave or ‘bounce’, 2) whether they decide you are a business they want to engage with and 3) whether they actually do anything to contact you or buy something from your site. Each of those points flows in order, each is a point to lose that potential customer.

If you haven’t already, do the following: You’ll notice these are all Google tools for the reason they are free and because Google’s expectations matter for 95% of search traffic: • Set up Google Analytics and find out how much traffic you’re getting and what the Bounce Rate percentage is. If it’s over 50% you likely have a serious problem with the first impressions of the site. Bounce Rate means a visitor left the site from the same page they arrived and didn’t look at anything else. If they came in via the contact page, which you can find out on Analytics, then that is not really a concern as they were probably searching for your contact details.

• Run Google’s Pagespeed Insights tool and look at Core Web Vitals in Google Search Console. These will tell you how fast (or slow) your website is for users on desktop and mobile and any major technical problems that exist. Amber scores are ‘okay’ but you really want to aim for green scores. If they’re in the red, you have technical problems with the build of your site that are making it take far too long to load and become interactive to the user. This is the equivalent of subsidence and is an absolute death-knell for websites if left unfixed, especially where users are on mobile devices – you likely won’t even appear in search results.

• Run Google’s Mobile-Friendly Testing Tool to see if your website is responsive for mobile devices. This tests to see if pages adjust for smaller screen sizes and content layouts adapt in a way that is suitable for mobile users. If you fail this test it is also a disaster for mobile search traffic and a massive contributor to Bounce Rate.

HITPOINT 3: Reconsider your current content and set up a content plan This is much simpler than the previous two points. Re-read all content on your website and decide whether it creates the right impression or adds anything. Focus on a tabloid newspaper approach to content structure: Strong, relevant headlines, summary introductions, content that is punchy, to the point and isn’t too laborious to read. Once you have got the main content to where it needs to be, think of what is missing that people may search for to find you. My top tips for things that add the most value: FAQ (Frequently Asked industry Question) pages, sector and service specific case studies, blog articles around common things people experience or solutions they look for to solve particular problems.

As a guide, if you have a business with 10 products used in 10 different ways by 10 different customer types, you need 100 pages of content about each permutation.

Every one is a route to your business via search e.g. Google.

HITPOINT 4: Get more visitor traffic going there, organic and paid if you can afford it When your website is rocking and rolling in every way it can be, you need people to find it and go there. You can do this three ways: 1) Direct – tell them about it, 2) Organic – They find you via searching online or links from other pages and content outside of your site e.g. social media and 3) Paid – You create ads or content and sponsor it so it appears in front of people who might like to buy from you. My best advice to anyone here is to first speak to a company like TFA about ‘SEO’ or ‘Search Engine Optimisation’ as it is worth its weight in gold for driving traffic.

HITPOINT 5: Drive engagement conversions any way you can Finally, and somewhat obviously I would say, there is no point to anything above if someone interested in your business then struggles to contact you or buy from you. At the very minimum, you want a good contact page with multiple means to contact you and NOT just a painful form. These days it is common to offer quick links to phone (tap the number), email, Whatsapp, Messenger and live chat boxes. If you are going to offer live chat, however, make sure it is either manned or you have it set up to serve as a quick enquiry form when you are offline.

That concludes the first of my Hitlist series.

If you take the time out to investigate and remedy the above elements then it will make a BIG, noticeable difference to your business and what your website brings to the table.

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

Kettering Park Hotel

26th October

Your Marketing plan in a day!

Join our “One-Day Marketing Plan” workshop on October 26th at Kettering Park Hotel.

At the end of the day you’ll: •

Have a highly effective marketing plan you can put into action immediately

•

Become proficient at updating your marketing plan as your business grows

•

Benefit from the intense focus on your marketing during the day (no distractions from the office)

•

Be clear on what will help your business grow, and what won’t

Is 2023 is going to be a year of growth for your business?

Book your seat at the “One-Day Marketing Plan” workshop and you’ll have the clearest path to achieving your goal.

Because we’ll be working with each business individually, there are only 20 places available.

The workshop costs just £250 plus VAT for the day, and includes: •

An intensive day of planning with individual attention from our coaches

We’ll focus on the 9 main elements of your marketing strategy, including:

•

A comprehensive Workbook that can be used as your business develops

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The 1-Page Marketing Plan Template

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Your purpose – the reason your business exists and the problems you solve

•

A light lunch

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Your people – your ideal client(s)

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Your plan – creating a plan for the year ahead

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

Preparing your business for sale

Y

ou’ve worked hard for years, decades or maybe even generations, at building your business, caring for your employees and valuing your customers loyalty. The day-to-day operations are running smoothly, and you’ve put time and thought into your long-term strategy, but have you thought about your succession plans? In other words, do you have an exit strategy?

It is inevitable that one day you will need (and want) to step away from the business you’ve built, but many business owners do not put the same time and effort into planning for their exit as they do for day-today operations and growth strategy. Maybe this is because it’s easier to prioritise shortterm projects, hard to imagine not being a part of the business’ future, or simply thinking that exiting a business is easy.

What exit options do I have available?

Passing on your business to family members Employee succession planning • •

Management Buy-Out Employee Ownership Trust

Business sale Turning the key, shutting the door and walking away Tax implications on these options can vary dramatically.

Preparing your business for sale will put strain on you and your business during the sales process. Investing time before the process begins will help you during the process, maximise your exit price and give your staff and customers the thought they deserve when you’re negotiating and securing their future. Don’t underestimate the amount of time planning takes. It is time intensive.

Business sale process?

Pre-Sale planning Finding and Choosing a Buyer (under NDAs) Negotiations Heads of Terms Due Diligence Exchange & Complete Earn-Out Period Planning should start at least 3 years before entering the sales process.

Where to start?

Before you enter into the sales process, work out what you need from the sale. Without this figure, it will make negotiations extremely tough for you. It will also give you a benchmark against the current value of your business, to identify whether any changes need to be made in advance of entering the sales process.

There are different methods for calculating the value of a business, which can be dependent on the type of business or sector you are in. For example, in the IFA and accountancy sectors, the valuation is based on a multiple of their fee income/ turnover, but profitability will still play a part in determining the multiple.

Valuation methods: Cashflow Forecasting EBITDA multiple (with normalisations) Asset basis Turnover multiple Getting your finances in order It is important to have an accurate and upto-date picture of your business’ financial information. Think about how you currently monitor your financial performance and if perspective buyers will be able to understand and interpret your current reporting methods. It is good practice to whittle your financial performance metrics down into a handful of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which are recorded and analysed monthly. Getting away from spreadsheet management is also a wise move, so the data is populated digitally with a clear audit trail.

Start this now, so...

You can see where you are today, compared to your exit goal number You have a record of your KPIs over a period of time You can take action to maximise your value at the time of your sale How instrumental business?

are

you

to

your

Whether you’re looking for a full exit as soon as possible or planning to stay in the business for an earn-out period, your buyer will be looking to identify how crucial you are to the day-to-day operations and the number of strong relationships you hold with your customers.

Considerations Do you have a strong/weak management team?

Are your processes documented?

Are you in any long-term contracts or agreements?

Build your team of experts When it comes to planning for what is likely to be the biggest deal of your career, it makes sense to pick your team of experts carefully. A good advisor will pay for themselves in the experience and advice they bring to the party. Particular attention should be paid to selecting your legal and accountancy team, as throughout the process there will be many legal documents which will need preparing, interpreting and reviewing, as well as advising on courses of action where applicable.

A good firm of accountants will provide experience in a number of areas throughout all stages of the sales process; from the valuation of your business, presenting key information in due diligence, tax planning and help to ensure you get the best deal possible. They may also be able to introduce you to good brokers and sometimes even perspective buyers.

Final tips What are your plans after your sale?

Are you planning or thinking of staying within the business for a period of time, or do you want to be walking off into the sunset? It’s worth considering that certain buyers and types of sale will expect an earn-out period where you will continue to work within the business or as a consultant for an agreed period.

If you have read this and it has got you thinking about your exit plans, we at Ad Valorem would be pleased to discuss them with you to explore your options and start the planning process early.

Contact us to arrange

using the details below an informal discussion.

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

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

35

PULSE PICS

On Sunday, July 31 football finally came home in style – and it was the girls that did it!

England’s Lionesses united the nation in pride when they delivered that spectacular win and became European champions for the first time, writes Sammy Jones.

A

fter an early lead, that German equaliser made everyone fidgety at the thought of penalties. And then England scored again and a nation joined the team in celebrations.

Newport Pagnell’s Leah Williamson was Captain and led the team to victory. The inspirational Arsenal player is now set to become the first person to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Milton Keynes.

In a special Pulse Pics, we look back at a momentous day that changed the world of football, and we celebrate the local girl who lifted the trophy...

Pic: UEFA

Not content to watch the action on the small screen, England fan Nicki Atkinson and her daughter Sophie celebrated at Wembley with 87,000 others!

“The energy that a home crowd brings to a team in that stadium is phenomenal,” Nicki said, “A brilliant performance from both teams, but the Lionesses brought it home. Total class.”

By far the biggest and most colourful tribute to Leah was spray painted in her hometown.

The response to the two wall coverings has been immense, and rightly so – the stunning work pays tribute to a stunning talent!

If you got the snacks out to nibble while you watched the big match, perhaps you chose Doritos, with Leah gracing the front of promotional packs!

36

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

Pic: UEFA

PULSE PICS

Pic: UEFA

Emma Street poured a glass of something nice at home in Milton Keynes, painted on the flags and waited. She was rewarded. “What a match! It was such a privilege to watch those girls achieve their dream,” she told Pulse.

Ian Downing swapped Newport Pagnell to be at Wembley Stadium with his brother-in-law and niece: “We bought the tickets over a year ago simply hoping to give her a day out at Wembley, so England getting there was a massive bonus,” Ian said, “It was a great noisy family atmosphere.”

Local artist Kevin Ball drew this fantastic picture to honour our local champion, having been inspired by the mural.

You can see more of his work by searching Kevin Ball’s Artwork on FB.

Pic: UEFA

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

37

MK PRIDE

Glitz, glamour and togetherness as MK Pride returns L

ast year’s Pride Festival was one of the most colourful, inclusive, family-friendly events ever held in Milton Keynes, but it might just pale into comparison with what organisers have whipped up for the new city this year, writes Sammy Jones.

Pride returns to Campbell Park on Saturday, September 10 and will be a celebration of all things LGBTQ+ The event is open to the LGBTQ+ community and all allies – because it’s a silly misconception that these events are for members of the community only.

“We are calling it a festival because we want people to come and spend time together and just hang out. It’s also about informal education where people can just be around each other,” said festival director Helen Pritchard.

“That’s the environment where the best kind of learning happens and where we all realise that we have different identities but ultimately we are all human beings trying to get on with our lives and be loved and keep going.”

So-called ‘allies’ are people who don’t identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, but want to show their support for those who do – perhaps they attend in solidarity with a friend or a family member, or maybe just to show more general support. “...and this is a really lovely place to come and learn about the community,” Helen promised.

Lots of people coming out with their sexuality or identity choose to make Pride their first event. So how important are those allies at MK Pride?

38

“Incredibly important,” Helen says in a second, “It is so important for people to have those who support them around them, to care and love them. It makes a direct impact on the outcomes of mental health, homelessness, and it’s really important for future aspirations too.

“If a person is coming out with their gender or sexuality, if they have allies that are saying, ‘We are here for you, let us know what you need us to do,’ that makes such a difference.”

The fact is that although things might seem to be more open and accepting, there is still much more work to be done. The statistics about the numbers of the transgender community likely to try to take their own lives, or self-harm make for sobering reading.

A little bit of acceptance goes a long way – and we all have a responsibility to make a change for good.

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

MK PRIDE

The stages will be buzzing with performers and artists.

Here is a brief taster: “Around 25% of those young people homeless in London are that way because of their LGBTQ+ status. Their families have disowned them and they haven’t been able to stay where they were,” Helen explains.

“Milton Keynes mimics that figure,” she said.

“We hope that during the event we can learn about each other and challenge some stereotypes and prejudices about the LGBTQ+ community, our young people are still disproportionately represented in mental health care, homelessness and being bullied in schools or in the community. “Some adults are still unable to come out regarding their gender identity or sexuality as they will be at risk of harm,” Helen said.

In 2021, more than 14,000 people made tracks to the park to enjoy the event, and building on that impressive success, those working behind

Stooshe will close the Rainbow Stage Divina De Campo will bring the curtain down on the Drag and Cabaret Stage Sarah Jones, the first transgender Anglican priest in the UK will be in conversation in the Community tent Swimmer Michael Gunning will share his journey of being LGBTQ+ and involved in sport Showtime Circus will be in charge of the Kids Tent with lots of free fun for all

the scenes have pulled together a fabulous programme this year.

For the first time, kids will have their own space at the festival: “We had so many families come last year that we managed to get a sponsor for the kid’s stage, and we will have free entertainment and activities for them in their own tent.”

Little folks will be able to get involved with craft work, circus skills and will possibly be able to perform on stage too.

A Drag and Cabaret tent will showcase the very best in their respective fields, and a Community tent will be open for discussion around faith and sport, before evolving into the Comedy tent in the evening.

The Rainbow tent returns too, with a full programme of LGBTQ+ bands and artists to get you up and dancing.

If you’ve got the spends, the Rainbow market has lots of what you fancy, with clothing, art, collectibles and much more.

The on-site bar will be well stocked, and there will be plenty of food choices on offer too.

It can be a bustling affair, but if you feel like taking a little chill time, a trip to the Sensory Calming tent will sort you out.

It’ll be fun, fun, fun and hopefully hosted in the sun, but as we’ve explained there is a serious element to Pride, and anyone needing help or advice will be able to access local services providing that support.

Last year, visitors to the gated event made their entrance through a brilliantly colourful, flower arch, but two less than two days after Pride had passed, the rainbow arch was burned. Those responsible had broken into the site to cause upset. Instead, it had the opposite effect – and united people with a wealth of positive publicity. Organisers were upset, but definitely not beaten.

“That was recorded as a hate crime,” Helen said, “There is hate crime and transphobia that happens in Milton Keynes more than people realise, simply because the community is so hidden - they don’t come out, because they don’t feel safe.

“We just felt incredibly sad,” she recalls of the attack, “We had such a positive day and it was such a shame for that to happen, but what we’ve said is that we won’t allow hate to win – we are trying to arrange to have two arches this year to say that.

“It’s about delivering a calm response, but one that says, ‘look, this is not cool, and not ok.’

“Pride is a fun day but it is also a reminder that as a society, we still have much work to do to safeguard and support our LGBTQ+ community within the UK...”

And as this year’s event nears, Helen promises bigger and better is on the way in 2022.

“We have got a wider offer for everybody,” she told Pulse, “We work hard to produce a nice energy and make sure it is such a positive day for everybody. A bit of something for everyone to enjoy and take part in; there is education and community with our speakers, but then we’ve also got all the glitz and the glamour too.

“We’re a city now, and we deserve our own Pride!”

Entry to Milton Keynes Pride Festival is free.

The event will run from midday to 10.30pm.

Pride will be open to families and even furbabies from midday to 6pm, after which time all under 18s and pets are asked to leave the event before the more adult-based content takes over.

More information can be found at miltonkeynespridefestival.com

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

39

BEAUTY

Cooling and Calm

The weather this summer has left our green spaces tinder-dry – and it hasn’t been any kinder to us!

If you are feeling brittle and frazzled, our selection of products this month is driven by goodies to quench and calm...

With the consistency of freshly whipped cream and ‘fruity hidden depths,’ Lush’s Sympathy For The Skin Body Lotion sounds good enough to eat, but don’t do that!

Pollution and stress can leave its mark on our faces, but The Jojoba Company Australian Jojoba helps repair problem skin – it’s naturally rich in vitamins A, D & E and is perfect for heading off dryness, redness and irritation.

Instead, smother yourself in goodness whenever you get the urge. Easily absorbed, it’ll leave you feeling nice and nourished.

It can also help calm skin dealing with acne and rosacea.

And Jojoba isn’t an oil. Honestly! The plant stores liquid wax in its seeds, which our skin recognises as our own, helping the skin to help itself.

Cocoa butter, almond oil and organic bananas work hard for you, and the vanilla fragrance is just right.

Antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and clever too!

RRP: £18

RRP: £13.99

Get it: lush.com/uk

Arbonne’s HydrateMe Crushed Jelly Serum is the ideal way to care for your skin after a day in the sun.

The jelly relaxes into a thin layer, dealing with dehydration issues and leading to a healthier appearance. The Edulis Cellular Water is joined by Aloe Vera and Witch Hazel to get the job done. HydrateMe is a little pot of plenty!

RRP: £45

Get it: arbonne.com

When it comes to colours, Mylee’s Gel Polish has nailed it! The range is a colourful splash with a shade for all.

Apply and let the lamp do the rest. And forget being just pretty in pink, you’ll be shimmery in pink too, if you opt for Modern Romance.

The Gel Polish Collection brings together four calm shades, including a baby pink and a beige nude.

RRP: mylee.co.uk

Get it: £7.99 (each), £34 (Gel Polish Collection)

Get it: thejojobacompany.co.uk

If you have dry or damaged hair you’ll need something tough to treat it, and Bondi Boost’s Rapid Repair range is a game changer.

BBRR offers a transformative shampoo, conditioner and serum to improve softness and shine, repair split ends and make hair appear visibly thicker.

For the ultimate in hair aid, Bondi Boost presents its Rapid Repair Mask – free from silicones, parabens, sulphates and artificial colours. Use regularly for well behaved locks!

RRP: Shampoo (£22.50), Conditioner (£22.50), Serum (£27.99) Mask (£29.95) Get it: bondiboost.co.uk

Are you a citrus shower lover?! Shower In Lush is a wonderfully indulgent box of goodies for those who like to wash up under the sprinkle!

Treat yourself or treat another to scrub-a-dub delight with items including Lime Bounty body butter, Orange shower scrub, Happy Hippy shower gel and Montalbano shampoo bar.

Top up on your zest for life with this top to toe treat.

RRP: £62

Get it: lush.com/uk

40

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

Extend the lifetime of your bespoke suit An extra set of trousers with every two piece suit ordered*

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By Cindy LGH @CindyLGH

FASHION

New Season

TU @ Sainsbury’s £30

I

All Items F&F @ Tesco Bomber Jacket £39

know you don’t want to hear it, and after the heatwaves we’ve had, who would believe it but winter is coming.

Time to ready your wardrobe - or rather, remix it, using designers’ new ideas for outfits to rewear the clothes you’ve long forgotten…

Zara £169 Zara £45.99

River Island £70

First, sift out that old bomber jacket, because they’ve returned to fashion with a bang. They came embellished at Prada and Loewe, while Raf Simmons and Isobel Marant opted for vintage takes we’ve definitely seen, (probably still have) and loved before. Out for the eve? Juxtapose its streetwear vibe with something demure: slinky dresses, a bit of sparkle, and over the knee boots - like the models at Versace and Givenchy. Going into the office? Pull yours on over smart trousers, a la the looks at Loewe.

Heading to a field? See how David Koma styled bomber jackets with football kits, while Christian Dior made them work with wellies.

bomber jacket to breathe new life into yours, with a durable, “ready-for-whatever” attitude. Those ankle sweeping skirts are about to have a very long moment.

But finally, before you forget (or regret) those summer purchases, know that cutouts and seethrough fabrics are still on fashion’s mind. From completely sheer, hooded, floor length gowns at Maximillian, to the sequinned, semi-sheer and cutout dresses at Bottega Veneta - getting your skin out is still very much ‘in’. Just wear and rewear your cut-out dresses with knee high boots and long coats; your sheer slips over something knitted. The key of course is looking cool but keeping warm while you do it.

The other (surprising) summer keepsake? The humble vest. Prada put theirs with fancy skirts and heels, Bottega Veneta with denim jeans, while Chloe sent models out in tank tops and leather trousers. However you wear yours, autumnwinter’s the time to let your old gems shine. Think: New season, glittered with purchases from the past.

Next, note that maxi skirts and maxi gowns are trailing back to trendy’s horizon.

F&F @ Floor length is the new cool, Tesco as though answering our £22.50 >> collective prayers about the miniskirts that dominated SS22’s catwalks... Just see the long denim creations at Marc Jacobs and Acne Studios, embellished takes at Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and swathing skirts at Saint Laurent. Look to chunky winter boots and the aforementioned River Island << £199

River Island £79 >> River Island £60

TU @Sainsbury’s £14 >> 42

September 2022 | MK Pulse Magazine

River Island £39 >>

Enjoy Coffee with friends or a meal somewhere different...

Relax

Slow down and take in the historic market town of Olney...

Shop

Find that perfect Christmas gift in one of the independent shops...

Pick up a handy town guide when you visit available in most of the local eateries and shops!

Olney Plan a visit soon, you’ll be pleased you came!

Escape the hustle and bustle with a visit to historic Olney Slow down for a while and enjoy a drink in one of the pubs, or enjoy a tempting snack or afternoon tea in one of the tea and coffee shops.

Take your time as you browse around the shops, offering fashion, vintage, antiques or unique gifts. Escape for an evening out and enjoy a drink and a delicious meal in one of the town's many and varied restaurants, everything from Italian to modern English cuisine.

Make your next escape to Olney

FREE PARKING A SHORT WALK FROM THE HIGH STREET

43

FOOD & DRINK

Orange and Soy Duck with celeriac purée INGREDIENTS

METHOD

1 orange, juice

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4. Mix the orange juice, soy sauce and honey in a bowl to make a dressing. Score the skin on the duck breasts and season all over. Heat a frying pan over a mediumhigh heat and, without adding any oil, cook the duck, skin-side down, for 5 minutes until golden. Turn over and sear the flesh for 1 minute.

Transfer, skin-side up, to a baking tray. Drain the fat from the pan, then add the orange dressing. Bubble for 1 minute, then spoon the dressing over the duck. Roast for 15 minutes, until the duck is fully cooked with no pink meat and its juices run clear. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.

1 tbsp reduced salt soy sauce 1 tsp clear honey 2 Gressingham Duck Breasts 1 tbsp olive oil 300g frozen Cooks’ Ingredients Diced Celeriac 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped 100ml whole milk 200g Savoy cabbage, shredded

WASTE NOT Keeping diced celeriac in the freezer means you only use as much as you need. Add a handful to your favourite soup, stew or gratin, or roast with herbs and garlic for serving with a Sunday joint.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Serves: 2 44

2. Meanwhile, heat ½ tbsp oil in a medium saucepan. Add the celeriac and garlic along with a pinch of salt. Sweat for 5 minutes, then add the milk and simmer gently for 10 minutes or until the celeriac is soft. Season and use a blender to purée, loosening with 2-3 tbsp just-boiled water if needed; set aside until ready to serve.

3. Wipe out the frying pan and return to the heat with the remaining ½ tbsp oil. Add the cabbage, 2 tbsp water and another pinch of salt.

Cook over a medium heat, tossing regularly, for 5-6 minutes, until tender. Slice the duck then serve with the celeriac purée, cabbage, and the orange and soy juices from the duck spooned over.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose.

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

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

FOOD & DRINK

Wake up and smell the coffee Out of Office Probably the most well-known independent coffee shop among Milton Keynes’ locals, Out of Office has a very simple ethos: serve exceptionally tasty coffee and freshly baked goods and ensure that every customer leaves slightly happier than when they arrive.

As I type this (inside the Witan Studios branch of OOO!) I agree completely with their sentiments – as the coffee shop is now considered to be a ‘third space’ away from both the home and the office, it really does serve to be an anchor for the community, bringing together both those who wish to work and those who wish to play.

Out of Office was founded in 2017 in Milton Keynes from a passion of well-brewed coffee by Steven, Murat and Bennet. The three were lucky enough to have travelled the world, seeking quality coffee shops along the way and vowed to bring speciality coffee to the communities outside of London.

The first shop launched in Stony Stratford and, since then, Out of Office have branched out and opened in five more locations – all maintaining the signature ‘owl face’ branding, but varying the internal décor to fit with the local communities in which the coffee houses stand.

Out of Office work with award-winning coffee brand Colonna – who not only produce worldrenowned beans but also put in scientific research in order to create accessible and exceptional coffee, roasted to perfection. Out of Office, I would say, are some of the biggest supporters of local produce suppliers, selling freshly-baked goods from small independents such as: SAY doughnuts, Oh My Cakery, Hackney Gelato, among others. In their Witan Gate branch, they also serve some sensational brunch offerings, such as: fluffy pancakes topped with Biscoff sauce and Biscoff crumbs; the ‘Erin’ – a velvety espresso with dark Madagascan Out of Office offer mouthwatering pancakes for brunch

Cornwall Place Kitchen Doorstep Toastie

I am already on to my third! Although Farthing Brothers does have a very small outdoor seating area next to the street, it’s often very busy outside; the shop itself operates very much like a window kiosk so be prepared to take away!

Out of Office coffee

chocolate served in a jug for you to smother over your ice cream of choice; a selection of sandwiches and bagels including my personal favourite, ‘The New Yorker’ - pastrami, gherkin, mustard and cheese; and their legendary banana bread - banana and chocolate bread, served toasted with their homemade Colonna espresso butter.

My favourite coffee order anywhere is always an oat mocha and it is no different at Out of Office. They use no syrups or powders in their chocolate-based drinks, instead working with quality chocolate purveyors Cocoa Runners to melt down solid chocolate into a ganache, before blending it expertly with steamed milk to create a silky smooth and deliciously indulgent coffee with a bitter edge.

Locations: Wembley, Witan Studios, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Olney Instagram: @outofofficecoffee

Farthing Brothers A tiny establishment in my home town of Newport Pagnell opened up earlier this year and has become one of my favourite go-to locations for a coffee on-the-go. Run (aptly!) by the Farthing Brothers Jack and Joel, Farthing Brothers Coffee House serves up quality coffee locally roasted by Wooden Hill roastery – an eco-conscious, plastic-free coffee company based in Bedfordshire which roasts a unique blend of Costa Rican, Honduran and Brazilian Fairtrade coffee beans.

Farthing Brothers also serve up homemade sweet bakes and savoury treats courtesy of Tracey Hollywell – I can definitely vouch for the deliciousness of the warm sausage rolls. In addition to this, they serve up a vast selection of iced teas, flavoured hot chocolate (including a nut-free peanut butter flavour!) and an excellent Monday-Wednesday Deal – a coffee and a cake for £5. Their loyalty card scheme is fantastic and well-worth getting if you know you’re going to be stopping by every now and again; in fact

Location: Newport Pagnell Instagram: @farthingbrotherscoffeehouse

Cornwall Place Kitchen Situated just outside of Milton Keynes in Buckingham, Cornwall Place Kitchen is an eco-conscious coffee shop-cum-fine dining establishment in the lovely Cornwall Place mews off the high street. Head Chef George Spires and Restaurant Manager Sarah King are the masterminds behind this innovative dining venture. What started as a side project became a full-time undertaking during lockdown – George is the brains behind the kitchen while Sarah heads up all things front-of-house.

The dog-friendly coffee shop downstairs serves a selection of local drinks, homemade cakes and street-food-style hearty breakfast and lunch dishes. On a weekend you can even find some fairly renowned lunch specials, such as their doorstop Toasted Sandwiches (their mushroom, cheese and chutney is without doubt one of the best I’ve ever eaten!) and mountains of flavoursome French Toast. Another supplier Of Wooden Hill Coffee, CPK offers an extensive drinks menu with both your staple options alongside some unique takes on coffee, such as: White Chocolate Mochas, Biscoff, Butterfly Pea and Charcoal Lattes and even Puppacinos for your four-legged furry friends.

In the evenings, Cornwall Place Kitchen hold occasional steak nights (with meat supplied from Smith and Clay Butchers just around the corner) and private events. They also host monthly ‘pop-up’ evenings; chef’s table taster menus which celebrate seasonal, quality, handpicked and local ingredients are the focal point, while pairing wines highlight English producers, brewers and distillers.

In fact, CPK supports local wherever possible, recognising the importance, as a small business, of supporting other small businesses. Their mission? Cooking good food in a welcoming environment with a lot of love – which they certainly manage.

Location: Cornwall Place, Buckingham Instagram: @cornwallplacekitchen > If you would like your restaurant reviewed get in touch mkpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmaroseeats

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

45

FOOD & DRINK

Cocktail of the month:

Cacao Awakening

I

f you love a classic Espresso Martini, but fancy creating something new, the Cacao Awakening is one to try. Using the traditional martini recipe as a base, this is a twisted classic which creates a deliciously easy-drinking cocktail. I’ve used Copalli Rum (@copallirumuk) Cacao-infused white rum in place of the vodka and coffee liqueur, and added a bit of my Homemade Chocolate Coffee Syrup for some sweetness. Copalli are an incredibly environmentally conscious company and have a wonderful estate in Belize where everything is grown, harvested and processed. Their rums are all delicious and you can really taste all the individual flavour notes.

My cocktail cupboard staple Solo (@solocoffeeuk) Coffee Concentrate features here – it is, without a doubt, the best coffee for

this cocktail, and hundreds of popular bars agree so, if you haven’t already started using it for your espresso martinis, you’re really missing out. The result? A coffee cocktail with flavours to rival the original.

Recipe 50ml @copallirumuk Cacao Rum 30ml @solocoffeeuk Coffee Concentrate 10ml Chocolate Coffee Syrup (Homemade) To make the Chocolate Coffee Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of brewed coffee, a cinnamon stick and ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Heat and boil for 3 minutes (or simmer for longer if you require a

thicker syrup). Remove from the heat and whisk in a pinch of salt. Allow to cool completely before using.

Shake all of the ingredients with ice and serve in a martini glass. Top with chocolate-coated coffee beans and enjoy.

Follow Lewis on Instagram: @sundaycocktailclub

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

MUSIC

Pic: Boom! Photography

I’ve witnessed thousands of students transform their lives in ways they never imagined The founder of Milton Keynes Music Academy explains the power of music to enable the young to develop their hidden talent.

M

usic has the power to transform lives, a catalyst for talent, success and positive values.

The ability to play an instrument or sing beautifully offers a lifetime of benefits, says Gabriele Baldocci, founder of the Milton Keynes Music Academy. Music lessons also foster personal, social, and academic development and the Milton Keynes Music Academy is the result of substantial investment in the creation of an elite faculty to provide an uplifting environment designed to foster creativity, confidence and joy.

“If you’ve been told you are tone deaf or uncoordinated, I’m here to inform you that everyone can improve their musical skills,” says Gabriele, himself an internationally acclaimed concert pianist.

“As a professional performer, composer and music professor, I’ve witnessed thousands of students transform their lives in ways they never imagined possible. We make it our mission to help Milton Keynes students explore and develop their talents, wherever their curiosity and interests lead them.”

Gabriele founded the Milton Keynes Music Academy during the pandemic in 2020. Since its inception, the school’s primary objective has been to create a vibrant musical community and Gabriele’s ongoing goal is to give all the students the opportunity to learn from active performers and qualified musicians.

“There is no better way to learn an instrument than to be inspired by those who are enthusiastically spreading music in concert form,” he says.

The Milton Keynes Music Academy offers music lessons to students of all ages and levels. The school’s curriculum currently includes one-to-one piano, electric and acoustic guitar, drums, singing and violin lessons, all taught by carefully selected professionals.

Any child who shows an affinity for music or any instrument is welcome to contact the

Any child who shows an affinity for music or any instrument is welcome to contact the school to schedule a consultation lesson.”

school to schedule a consultation lesson.

Whether the student chooses to study an instrument to explore a performing career or simply in order to enjoy music as part of a holistic education, the school will imbue all pupils with a sense of musicianship and music interpretation that they can use throughout life.

As well as being a concert pianist, Gabriele is a professor at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and at The Purcell School.

He is head of keyboard at Haileybury School in Hertfordshire and founded the London Piano Centre.

Studying music is all about sharing it, he says. To instil the love for performance, the Milton Keynes Music Academy regularly hosts free recitals with a grand piano in first class professional recital venues and currently collaborates with the Mercure Hotel and with the Chrysalis Theatre.

To celebrate the achievements of the students, the Academy offers a professional photo shoot on the day of the recitals, followed by a certificate-giving ceremony.

> The Milton Keynes Music Academy offers a FREE Trial lesson to all students that have an interest in learning an instrument. Find out more at miltonkeynesmusicacademy.com or call 07724 833 201.

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

47

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The Hawthorns Northampton | Weedon Road | Upton | Northampton | Northamptonshire | NN5 4WR 48

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

Sanvi - rattan globe table £TBA

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HOME & GARDEN

Organic textures and natural materials are as popular as ever, creating a refreshing, grounded space with a bit of retro flare.

With us still spending more time indoors than ever before, we’re all seeking to strengthen our connection with nature. Elements of stone, wood, wicker and rattan effortlessly breathe new life into any interior space, so we’ve pulled together a collection of our favourites to get you inspired.

Woven round placemats red set of 4 £57 iamfy.co.uk

CharlesTed marlowe stone pot £54.95 charlested.co.uk

Candle Holder ‘Ring’ Sculpture - Sand £69 fiveanddime-interiors.com

Large Cream-striped Jute Rug £329 pigletinbed.com

FEATURED BRANDS...

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Woven wicker star holiday shaped ornament £47.99 wayfair.co.uk

Rattan basket £87.99

Rattan tissue box £26

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Savanna Large Pendant £270

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Evelyn rattan and glass coffee table £TBA btfy.co.uk

Dahlia oval jute rug 120x170cm £169 cultfurniture.co.uk

For Forthe thelatest latestlocal localnews newsvisit visitwww.mkpulse.co.uk www.nnpulse.co.uk | MK NN Pulse Magazine | September 2022

49

HOME & GARDEN

DIGGING DEEP Getting a bit fruity

L

ast month we explored how a pond can improve your garden by encouraging many species of wildlife, but autumn officially starts in September and if you already have one of the water features this is the time to take extra care of it.

When leaves begin dropping from trees, you really don’t want them to land in your pond where they will rot and add to the sludge. In turn, aquatic life will be harmed when the leaves decay, which also affects the colour and quality of the water. A leaf-free pond in a happy pond.

Planting grass around the periphery is a smart move, as it will act as a great dust catcher.

But as the seasons slowly change, there are many other jobs to turn you into a busy bee in your outside space; water butts need to be cleaned, and pay attention to your grassed areas; if you have sparse patches, reach for the seed and replenish.

Autumn winds can play havoc with your delicate plants and young or fragile trees.

Don’t wait until problems arrive; act now in anticipation of high winds by ensuring tree ties and plant supports are doing their job.

Preparation is key if you want a pop of spring colour in your flower beds – bare-root wallflowers will survive the winter frost, so plant now and you’ll be glad you made the effort when they bloom next year. Crocus, daffodil and bluebells bulbs can all be planted now too.

If you grow to eat, there is plenty to do in your vegetable patches including sowing greens.

Broad beans, peas and onions and shallots can all be put in now.

And what of fruits? The best plums we’ve ever tasted were the ones harvested from a very old – and very reliable – tree belonging to a neighbour. When he would climb up the

How does your garden grow?

Plum trees are a delicious and nutritious addition to a garden

ladder to reach those at height, he would throw the odd one onto our lawn for us to grab and devour. Later, we would receive a bag full of yummy yellow fruits. Delicious, organic, packed with vitamins and so versatile; they can be used in jams, chutneys, sauces, poached or taken straight from the fruit bowl. As we often did.

If you have fruit trees, ensure you pick the produce before winds force the fruits to the ground where they will bruise and be at the mercy of insects and frost!

If you have too many, store them, or distribute them – fresh fruits will be welcomed by neighbours and friends. If you are lucky enough to have a big harvest, you might like to consider donating to a food bank.

Whatever you do, please make sure they are used, not wasted.

If you were looking forward to putting your feet up this month, you had better think again.

Your garden needs you!

Top Tip...

Sunflowers are one of the biggest and brightest of the summer blossoms, and this year they have taken on more meaning; as the national flower of Ukraine they have been embraced as a symbol of support for the embattled country.

The flowers signify peace in Ukraine and many people have shown solidarity by growing the terrific flowers here. If yours are still looking radiant, enjoy them while they continue, but when they bow out, leave the seed heads in situ – visiting birds will feed on them and be thankful.

50

A

dam Frost from Gardeners’ World says, ‘save seeds from your plants and save money.’

I’d like to talk about saving your tomato seed. Tomato comes from the Aztec word Xitomatl and this year I have grown varieties resistant to blight disease (there is no sign of that as I write) and ones from seeds saved myself.

The big one on the the photo (below), I saved seed from last year. It’s called Giant Bolivian Pink (and has a lovely, mild taste) and the smaller dark one is Black Krim from a Guernsey garden. If you find a tomato that you really like, cut it in half, scoop seeds out with a small spoon and spread them onto kitchen paper to dry.

When the seeds are dry, leave them on the paper, write the name on it if you know the variety, and put it away till next year.

When the time is right to plant them, cut the paper into bits with some seed on and plant that in a pot to germinate - there is no need to separate them from the paper.

You can save any seeds, vegetable, flowers, seed from a favourite shrub. Not all seeds are suitable, but it is always worth a try as it saves money, packaging, and energy and gives great excitement when you see those little green shoots popping their heads out of the pot.

Happy gardening, Carol Smith > Bletchley Garden Club (BGC) meet each month. New members welcome.

For details visit bletchleygardenclub.org

September 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 | September 2022

51

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53

HOME & GARDEN

Learning to live in a changing world C

limate change is already having effect on our daily lives including our environment, business, health, and public services. The cost of living is soaring, and households are faced with the pressure of finding enough money to pay eye-watering energy bills, fuel for our cars and food for our tables.

Each of us has a responsibility to make changes but sometimes it can be a challenge to see how an individual can really make a difference.

After some of the hottest summer days on record nobody needs reminding about the effect that global warming is having on our day-to-day lives.

Day after day, headlines have been showing empty reservoirs, wildfires causing havoc across the countryside and, when we think enough is enough, there are flash floods destroying homes and lives.

The war in the Ukraine, has been another factor with an increase in energy prices of more than 50 per cent. The Energy Price Cap which comes into force in October will see yet more price rises with another due in January putting average bills at more than £4,200 a year.

While this increase in global demand for liquefied natural gas has added to the pressure the United Kingdom experienced lower winds than normal, meaning that wind turbines have been unable to generate as much power as they have done in previous years.

In the meantime, in the United Kingdom 40 per cent of CO2 emissions are caused by individuals, mostly from energy used in the home. Many of us recognise the value of making changes to reduce our personal carbon footprint and to preserve the world’s precious assets. So, while we watch events unveil on the global stage and closer to home, there are ways we can each make a difference.

Advances in technology have enabled specialists like T&K Home Improvements to bring new products to the market. This includes solar glass which has an invisible coating that is effective in blocking external heat from the sun while retaining the warmth when temperatures plummet. This hi-tech glass for windows, doors and other living spaces means households can stay cool when temperatures rise and stay warm when freezing winter starts to bite.

54

The reality is that our energy bills are going to rise - we need to find ways to negate the rising costs. One way is improving the insulating quality of our glazing

We all want to do our bit for the planet but sometimes it can be difficult to see how we can make a difference A starting point would be to look at how we can better insulate our homes by taking advantage of the latest advances in glass technology.

Double glazing is another option. It was recently hailed as the ‘unsung hero’ in the fight against climate control by the World Economic Forum.

Adrian Timbers, sales and marketing manager, said: “We all want to do our bit for the planet but sometimes it can be difficult to see how we can make a difference. A starting point would be to look at how we can better insulate our homes by taking advantage of the latest advances in glass technology.

“It is now possible to have a living space that stays cool in the summer, warm in the winter and, at the same time, make significant reductions in energy bills. The pressure on the

price of materials and manufacturing means this a good time to buy rather than delaying the decision and then finding in the coming months that it will cost a lot more to make the changes.”

T&K guarantees the work for ten years with the fitting undertaken by the family-run company’s team of experienced fitters. >> To find out more visit our Wellingborough Showroom at Huxley Close, Park Farm South, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, NN8 6AB T&K Home Improvements is a family run business that has provided quality windows, doors and conservatories since 1979 in Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas.

To find out more about high performance energy efficient glazing options and how much you can save visit our website: www.tkhi.co.uk

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

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55

INTERIORS

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I

n an increasingly synthetic and manufactured world, there’s never been a better time to embrace organic design within our homes. Not only can it strengthen our connection with nature, but it provides the perfect antidote to the last couple of years that have been dominated by Zoom meetings and a heavy reliance on digital technology. Organic design trends tend to focus on natural forms and minimalist materials such as glass, steel, wood, jute, rattan and stone.

They feature clean lines, neutral colours and a distinct lack of fussy embellishment.

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Organic style is not a new characteristic for interiors. Ray and Charles Eames famously worked with molded plywood to create designs that were smooth in shape and simple in design. More recently, Matthew Hilton (Habitat) and lighting designer Tom Raffield, have both become well known for their ergonomic, organic desk designs and lighting. As one of Britain's most highly respected furniture designers, Matthew Hilton creates elegant and functional pieces out of wood and Tom Raffield produces sustainable, steam-bent and wooden pendants, chandeliers, wall, floor and table lights. Other organic influences can be seen in Nordic, Hygge, Japandi and Alpine styles.

Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262 www.millsandkinsella.com 56

The colour palette of organic schemes focuses on neutrals, with white walls frequently combined with area rugs in earthy, woody tones. The result is a peaceful look, encouraging a sense of serenity and calmness. The open plan spaces that have

become synonymous with organic design encourage a free flow of movement around the rooms giving the occupants a feeling of freedom, just like being outdoors in a wide, open space. The main stay of organic styling is the use of natural materials. These are rarely perfect, in fact it’s their natural characteristics that tend to give a scheme interest and originality. At a time when our on-screen lives tend to be lived so ‘perfectly’, to have a home that reflects the opposite can prove a very welcome relief.

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

THE ARTS If you’re concerned that a neutral palette or a look dominated by natural materials might be too uninteresting for you, then take time to seek out finishes and fittings that are more textural. Jute, recycled glass, wool, hand carved wood, rough-hewn timber, plants, linen fabrics, all offer a degree of texture that will add interest, depth and dimension to your scheme. Crucial Trading has a great selection of jute, coir, sisal and wool rugs that can be created in any size to suit and there are those that combine sisal and wool in chunky weave designs that are both beautifully tactile and aesthetically interesting.

The success of your design scheme will be dependent upon how well balanced it is. In organic interiors, offset hard concrete, shiny steel and structural stone with large, soft sofas upholstered in boucle fabrics, side tables covered in faux shagreen, tactile throws crying out to be touched and deep pile carpets or rugs thick enough to sink your toes into.

In a small kitchen, there may be less opportunity to add softness using upholstery and rugs so consider softening accessories instead. Add cushions to dining chairs or drape a small blanket over the back of a bar stool.

Incorporate a wooden butcher’s block on your island or have a separate worksurface such as a breakfast bar made of wood where the rest of the surfaces are granite. The light reflecting, shiny finishes of quartz, marble and polished metals will help glam up an organic scheme if it’s what you desire, whilst darker woods, heritage paint colours and heavy wools will bring warmth and cosiness to a scheme that’s at risk of becoming too stark and sterile.

Very often designing to an organic brief will enable you to be sustainable too. Reclaimed materials add colour, interest and texture and by repurposing an old material you’ll be helping the environment by not buying new. Sourcing pieces that have a history can provide a talking point. Rather than shouting about the bold pattern or colour, instead you can describe where you found the piece, how you came to be able to repurpose it for its new use and the method in which it was restored.

Designing with a natural brief in mind can be as wholesome for the designer as it is for the end client. It is highly rewarding to know that the scheme you’ve successfully created and incorporated into your client’s home can offer them a relaxing calming escape from the digital world, bridging the gap between the natural and the man made, whilst also being environmentally mindful and sustainable.

www.truffletablescapes.co.uk

Gary Walton, artist: See the world with a fresh perspective

T

he work of Gary Walton is full of character, imagination and joy. Describing his own style, Gary says it is: "Very whimsical, romantic and happy; quirky, two-dimensional with a slight intriguing air of fantasy combined with a twist of reality within." This fantasy world he creates draws us in, reflecting our own reality - particularly the coastline he loves - while offering an opportunity to consider unusual ideas and perspectives.

Born in Worcester in 1962, Gary enjoyed exploring his creativity while at school before entering the world of work as a graphic designer. He continued to paint, deepening his skills and developing his style further. He has been inspired by the works of surrealists including Salvador Dali, a connection we can see in his unique world with recognisable elements and yet often so different from our own.

While Gary Walton’s work can be described as quirky, fantastical and surreal there is a comfort in the facets we recognise which combine to invite us into his world and explore.

In 2004 Gary earned a position as finalist in the DeMontfort New Artist competition which earned him a publishing contract.

Through this relationship, new collectors came to appreciate his work and - having been able to commit to his work full-time Gary has been able to explore his interests and inspiration.

As well as original paintings and limited editions, Gary recently released a new collection of block mounted prints featuring the quirky harbour scenes, lighthouses and hot air balloons typical of his style. The artwork is beautifully presented - they are printed onto fine art canvas then bonded to board and varnished to replicate the look and feel of an original painting.

At the Rose Gallery, we love to be able to share the joy of new pieces by popular artists and the work of Gary Walton definitely falls into that category. If you’d like to know more about these works we’d be happy to help – do get in touch, or pop into the gallery.

Natalie Trembecki Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

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

57

MK Council

The greatest achievement in English football since 1966

I

is the most amazing achievement for England to become Champions of Europe. The Lionesses are an inspiration to everyone and have shown that through teamwork, ability and hard work, anything is possible.

Like many others, I never thought I would be able to say that England have won a major football tournament in my lifetime.

I am so proud that Milton Keynes hosted four matches and played our part in the greatest achievement in English football since 1966, including attracting a full house at Stadium:MK for the second semi-final. I’d like to thank all the teams and supporters that made those matches so special. Yet again, we as a city had the vision and confidence to back the tournament when many others did not.

I hope the win will have a lasting impact on women’s sport and I am sure it has both inspired a new generation of women and girls to go out and take part in whatever their chosen sport is, as well as changing the attitude of many others to women’s sport in general. Our host city bid promised to increase the number of girls playing the game and double the number of trained women’s coaches in the city. The Lionesses’ win is just the beginning of unlocking so much potential, so if you have been inspired, today is the 58

day you can also make a difference and be part of a winning legacy.

Bobby Moore and Leah Williamson, that is good company as the only two England football captains ever to lift a major international trophy.

We are immensely proud that Leah is from Milton Keynes, and I think it would be totally appropriate that the very first person to be given the Freedom of the New City of Milton Keynes is the first woman to lead a national side to international honours and is from MK. In July, I asked the Council to start the process of bestowing the honour on her.

Leah has since accepted this honour and we can expect to see a formal ceremony take place soon.

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

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

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59

MPS OUT & ABOUT

Challenges in farming and a visit to Under One Roof

Pavilion. Aimed at young people (aged 11-18) the event offers access to everything they need ‘Under One Roof’ with attendees covering mental health, physical health, sexual health, homelessness and young carers.

Some of the organisations in attendance included YiS, Depaul, MK ACT, Carers MK and CAMHS. I spoke with all these organisations to learn about what support and information they can offer to young people across Milton Keynes. Great work everyone!

As ever, if I can be of any help, please do get in touch with me on the contact details provided below.

The team from Under One Roof which aims to support young people and their mental health

I

hope hope you had a lovely summer and enjoyed the warm weather of August. I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you some of the things that I have been up to during the Summer Recess.

National Farmers Union Recently, I met with farmers from Milton Keynes M&M Supplies based in Bletchley South and representatives from the National employs 40 people locally to help in their Farmers Union (NFU) in Calverton. I heard firstoperation of distributing products and goods of manufacturers across the world hand from the farmers in attendance the issues and challenges that they are currently facing in their line of work.

The Food Strategy Plan was discussed as a positive step for farmers and there is an opportunity to grow it. But there is a need for a joint up approach between government departments.

The topic of innovation in the farming industry was also mentioned and the need for government confidence in it. In addition, government support and funding for farmers was also raised and the need to continue to help farmers.

M&M Supplies Another visit this month was to M&M Supplies in Bletchley; recent recipients of the Queen’s Award for International Trade.

Meeting with managing director, Frank Purcell, I learnt more about the business and what they do.

M&M Supplies employs 40 people locally to help in their operation of distributing products and goods of manufacturers across the world. Some of the brands that they distribute include Kellogg’s, Mars, Proctor & Gamble, Nestle and Kraft Heinz.

I was pleased to hear about the success that they have achieved by embracing the opportunities presented to them through Brexit.

I also heard about the wonderful work that they have done, and continue to do, with MK Food Bank and the products that they provide to support the work the food bank does.

‘Under One Roof’ Event I attended YiS’ Under One Roof event held at the Walnut Tree 60

A meeting with the National Farmers Union means I heard first hand about their issues and challenges and the need for government confidence

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

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MUSIC

DJs Scissors (left) with General Lee

Scissors poised to chop out the tunes

I

f you were there the first time around, you won’t fail to remember the fun times we had at Bar Central.

Back in the 1990s, ‘BC’ was a weekly pilgrimage made by Brit Pop disciples and rock heads, delivering a staple diet of smart sounds.

The chips were cheap, the after effects of the tequila were often traumatic (!) and as for the tunes?

Blur vs Oasis, The Verve, the off-kilter pop of Pulp...and a bit of Sympathy for the Devil thrown in for good measure.

Bar Central was hidden away on the first floor of The Food Centre, which has since been razed in preparation for more new flats (they call it progress), but while the new city is sadly now bereft of music hot spots and is instead awash with apartments and hotels, we do have some smart venues operating from the outlying towns.

One of those hubs, The Craufurd Arms, is hosting live music from The Indie Scene on September 17 together with a return to the decks by one of Bar Central’s original disc spinners, DJ Scissors.

He soundtracked those aforementioned fantastic times and he’ll be chopping out more tunes at this bash.

“The height of Britpop and the birth of the 90’s indie club nights in Milton Keynes seem forever ago now, but I was proud to play a big part in them and still enjoy being involved at some of the nights at The Craufurd Arms, MK11 and Unit 9, to name but a few,” Scissors told Pulse music.

“It’s brilliant to see that although the centre of MK has lost its nights like that, if you’re bold enough to venture away from the main hub you can still find cool places playing alternative music and giving a platform for people to play the music they make or even just the music that made them.”

Scissors’ return to the decks comes after the past two years of restricted living thanks to the pandemic.

“It’s been a hard time for these venues and I’m happy to get back involved and play some of the classics that shaped our youth and sculpted our futures.

“Fabulously talented local band The Indie Scene and I plan on taking you back to those fond memories of the Bar Central and Happy Wednesday era, and will play you some absolute gems from all your favourite bands of the 90’s, from Madchester to Britpop through to Indie and Rock,” Scissors said, “I look forward to seeing you all there.”

Other Craufurd highlights this month

In a spin with Scissors Five tracks that will definitely air on the night...

Pulp – ‘Disco 2000’ One of the stand out albums of the 90’s and although ‘Common People’ will always be the big single from this album, ‘Disco 2000’ will always be a big floor filler.

Ash – ‘Girl From Mars’ I’m not sure an indie night goes by without the demand to hear this. It’s always requested, and of course, happily played.

Oasis - ‘Slide Away’ Probably the biggest debut of the Britpop era, I love the early part of the Bar Central nights when you can play some of the slower anthems. This has to be a must for all the 40+.

The Verve - ‘Bitter Sweet Symphony’ It sounds as amazing now as it did back then, and will forever raise the hair on the back of my neck. Who didn’t walk across that dance floor with their chest out emulating Ashcroft in the video? A great anthem for the early evening or drunken singalong at 2am.

Blur - ‘Girls & Boys’ The album Parklife was everywhere and this is the song that kicked off my love affair for Blur and everything Britpop!

E

njoy a bit of a Dodgy night out (September 3) when Nigel Clark, frontman with the 1990s hit makers behind Good Enough and Staying Out For The Summer, steps out with his solo material.

As frontman with metal titans Fear Factory, Burton C. Bell was on heavy rotation in the Pulse Music household in times past. He stepped away from FF back in 2020 and is now focusing on his longterm side project, Ascension of the Watchers.

Burton is joined by Welsh muso and producer Jayce Lewis and together they bring elements of industrial rock, goth and tribal dance beats to bolster their unique heavy metal credentials. See them live on Monday, September 5.

A Much Betta ABBA show is a 60 minute spectacular featuring drag queen and original RuPaul Drag Race competitor Baga Chipz and Tanya Hyde.

62

Ascension of the Watchers

Check in with them on Wednesday, September 28.

While on the subject of The Craufurd Arms, the exterior of the venue has now been spruced up and is looking mighty fine!

Artist and musician Matt Downes is responsible for the stained glass inspired designs.

“The venue is an integral part of our music scene and it’s great to have the opportunity to have these featured,” Matt said.

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

Matt Downes pictured alongside his creativity at The Craufurd Arms

MUSIC

Shooting the Stars Just time enough to mention the summer of sounds at Campbell Park which saw many thousands of music fans entertained by artists including Craig David, Steps, Paloma Faith and the major festival, Reggae Land.

HAZE Photography captured this great image of the crowd engaged with Rag’n’Bone Man who was a real highlight.

The Doctor will see you now

MK Music Archive:

I

t might be the first time Burton C. Bell has rolled through town with Ascension of the Watchers, but he did play here with Fear Factory – as part of the Ozzfest bill at the National Bowl way back in 1998.

And keeping with the National Bowl, this September 5 & 6 marks the seventh anniversary since Foo Fighters last graced the new city, when they were joined by Iggy Pop and Royal Blood for the dates.

And on September 10, 1988 Michael Jackson performed.

For more on Milton Keynes’ musical history visit FB @miltonkeyneswiredforsound

Iggy Pop at The Bowl

A thoroughly Mod-ern night out

M Michael Jackson

ad Mods and Englishmen will deliver another blistering set of classics this month when they play live at Unit Nine on September 2.

The band’s repertoire will see them deliver tracks from The Who, The Kinks, The Stones, Spencer Davis, The Jam and a whole host of others.

Tickets are £8 if you buy them now, a tenner on the night. Tap to unitninemk.com

N

ow that the curtain has fallen on the antics of Ramsey Street after 37 years, one of its best known faces (nah, not her) is coming to MK11 to look back at his time spent as Neighbours’ most famous doctor, Karl Kennedy.

Alan Fletcher spent nearly three decades with the show and he’ll be sharing secrets and reliving the best bits at this event, and there will be the chance to pose your own questions too.

It’s not rock n’ roll in the traditional sense, but it’ll still be a rock n’ roll event, don’t you think?

And besides, Alan has more than dabbled in music himself.

Tickets for the MK11 show on Friday, September 30, the last date of the tour, can be found by tapping to mk11kilnfarm.com Scottish duo Hue and Cry are also coming to MK11 this month. Brothers Patrick and Gregory Kane, responsible for 80s hits including Labour of Love and Looking For Linda, will be live at the Kiln Farm hub on September 15.

Methods and music C oda Rushing, the musical union of Mitchell Taylor (a former Bard of Northampton and Stony Stratford) and Craig Hudson (the creative behind Billy Nomad) have followed up last year’s Pulse favourite Skills with the new EP Methods of Escape.

The Autism awareness advocates say this new delivery ‘feels like something you’d dig out of a 90’s bargain bin, in all the best ways.’

“On the first EP I wanted to be conscious of the sounds people like to hear – there was a lot of samples used that I didn’t have much to do with making,” Craig admitted, “With Methods of Escape we created all the parts ourselves

from scratch, arranged them and then Mitchell added his lyrics to give them the finishing touch.

It’s a bit different from what some listeners might be used to but it’s 100% Coda Rushing this time!”

This new delivery ‘deals with the escapist mentality of someone growing up with undiagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder,’ which the boys share in common.

Sound-wise, it pulls on piano, strings and industrial noise, so you can understand where the references to Mozart and The Beastie Boys come from.

Want to tip your ears to Coda Rushing? Head over to the usual digital stores for your fill.

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

63

WHATS ON

#WhatsOnPulse Technique Until February 12, 2023 Northampton Museum & Art Gallery presents an exhibition exploring the processes artists go through and the techniques they employ.

The show includes a wide cross-section of works from the Museum’s Fine Art Collection, including drawings, prints, sculpture and watercolours. Making a splash: northamptonmuseums.com

The Reluctant Dragon Saturday, September 3, 2.30pm Kenneth Grahame’s touching, sweet and funny tale of bravery, friendship and derringdo for the family visits Stantonbury Theatre for an afternoon showing fit for ages three years and up.

Dragon delight: stantonburytheatre.co.uk The Ultimate Classic Rock Show Saturday, September 3, 8pm Air guitars at the ready for this hard rockin’ show at The Stables which will deliver music from artists including Led Zeppelin, Queen, Deep Purple, Free and Hendrix, and that’s just for starters.

For those about to rock: stables.org Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club Saturday, September 3, 7.45pm Take your seat at the Underground and let the funnies flow – with Stephen Bailey, Stephanie Laine and Sid Singh.

Are you kidding me? Royalandderngate.co.uk Ascension of the Watchers Monday, September 5 Former Fear Factory frontman Burton C. Bell comes to town with his goth rock musical partner Jayce Lewis. Get the week off to a loud and heavy start.

Translations: thecraufurdarms.com

Ageing Well Talks – Home Instead Milton Keynes Home Instead Milton Keynes will be hosting a series of talks on Ageing Well by Jitka Vseteckova phD, D.Prof.

SFHEA from the Open University (Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies). The talks are to be held at Global House, Vincent Avenue, Crownhill, Milton Keynes MK8 0AB at 11am and are approximately an hour long (plus time at the end to ask questions). There will be a different topic each month: 6th September 2022 Nutritional Needs While Ageing 1st November 2022 Pharmacotherapy While Ageing 22nd November 2022 Move It and Breathe 13th December 2022 - Standing Tall The talks are FREE and are available to everyone – care staff, charities, clubs and societies, and anyone who is interested in this subject and feel that they can gain from the information.

Ample car parking available and refreshments will be provided.

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

Monday, September 5th, 8pm Classes restart at Bradwell Village Hall.

Also Wednesdays, Shenley Brook End Jan Jones: 07877 153 259 email: info@rscdsmk.co.uk And Tuesdays, Weston Favell, Northampton Eileen Brown: 01604 407205 www.northamptonscottishdance.org.uk 64

Dr John Cooper Clarke & Special Guests: I Wanna Be Yours Tuesday, September 6, 8pm The original ‘people’s poet’ is back with his unique show.

A chance to sit back in the company of the man who shot to fame in the 1970s and has been entertaining us, in unrivalled fashion, ever since.

The Luckiest Guy Alive: stables.org Heritage Open Days: Newport Pagnell Historical Society Open Days and Town Trails Friday, September 9, Saturday, September 10, Sunday, September 11, Saturday, September 17 & Sunday, September 18, 11am-4pm daily An opportunity to explore the Museum with many previously unseen artefacts relating to the historic town. The Museum is in Chandos Hall, Silver Street, Newport Pagnell – there is no need to pre-book.

Exploring the past: heritageopendays.org.uk Russell Kane – The Essex Variant Saturday, September 10 Russell comes to town with his new show, a gut-punch funny, searing award-winning take on the past two years. Pant-wetting observations are promised.

Funny fella: royalandderngate.co.uk The Comedy Cow Saturday, September 10, 8pm (last entry 7.45pm) Join Dane Baptiste, Matt Price, Craig Deeley and your MC Rich Wilson for a night of funny business. The Venue in Walnut Tree is the place to be.

Punchline: thecomedycow.co.uk

Scottish Country Dancing

Like dancing ? Try Scottish Country Dancing. No need to bring a partner or special clothing. All welcome. Just be prepared to enjoy the experience.

Spikedrivers Tuesday, September 6 A combination of gutsy slide guitar, rock solid bass, infectious grooves and highly distinctive vocals create a sound that is very much their own. Travel from the Southern Juke Joints to the lazy front porches to the open spaces of dust bowls and railroad tracks disappearing in the distance. Music goes live from 7.30pm.

Fine sounds: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Newport Pagnell and District Probus Club Tuesday, September 6, 12.15pm A friendly and diverse social club for retired and semi-retired men and women from all walks of life, meeting at the Swan Revived Hotel for lunch and a talk, ‘Saving Lives at Sea’, by Paul Gibbons.

Chat happy: Call 01908 605378 or email johnbrimley37@btinternet.com

Heritage Open Days – Church of St Edmund King and Martyr Friday & Saturday, Sept 9 & 10, 9am-5pm and Sunday, Sept 11, midday - 5pm A chance to explore the 13C parish church, with early 17C memorials and many plaques to the Hardingtone and Delapre families, Learn more: heritageopendays.org.uk

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September Highlights

Festive Road are taking part in this year’s Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days: Designed in Deanshanger – Astounding Inventors and Inventions Saturday, September 10, midday-5pm Discover astounding inventors and see where and how they lived and worked. Take a peek inside the factory laboratory and enjoy the have-a-go free activities for children and families. The event will be housed at Deanshanger Memorial Community Hall, Little London, Deanshanger. No booking required. Invention, industry, innovation: heritageopendays.org.uk Heritage Open Days: ‘Hats Galore’ Saturday, September 10 (10am-5pm) & Sunday, September 11 (midday-4pm) An exhibition of all things that can be worn on the head – from a helmet, to a hat from Harrods! The head gear will date from across the decades. At St John the Baptist Church in Hartwell.

Hat’ll do nicely: heritageopendays.org.uk The people’s poet – Dr John Cooper Clarke is at The Stables

Stamp Fair Saturday, September 10, 10am - 4pm A first-class event hosted by Milton Keynes Philatelic Society.

Stamp and cover dealers, including for the first time Buckingham Covers, Folkestone and Ian Perry Stamps, plus regular Stamp Dealers including KandK Halls, and member dealers - so you never know what you will find to get stuck into.

Refreshments available, at The Methodist Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, MK2 2HB Visit miltonkeynesphilatelicsociety.co.uk or call 01908 521220.

Dom Joly’s Holiday Snaps – Travel and Comedy in the Danger Zone Saturday, September 10, 7.30pm The man behind Trigger Happy TV is embarking on his first UK tour since 2011 where he will discuss his exploits as a serial globe-trotter and seeker of dangerous travels spots; from North Korea to Chernobyl. The man who went to school with Osama Bin Laden has certainly been to some unusual places.

He’s engaging and very smart.

Expect an excellent night out at Stantonbury Theatre.

A Powerpoint production: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

Northamptonshire Good Food and Drink Festival Sunday, September 11, 11am-4pm The county’s best food and drink suppliers and producers will descend on Kettering Park Hotel for a mouth-watering day out as the annual event returns. From locally brewed beer to vegan, dairy free and gluten items, this festival really will cater for all. Entry is free. Very, very tasty: northantsfoodfestival.co.uk Heritage Open Days: Astonishing Inventions & Mechanical Marvels Sunday, September 11, 11am-4pm Pop to 28 Burners Lane in Kiln Farm and immerse yourself in the wondrous world of Festive Road. Learn how they fuse art with engineering to fabulous effect, creating unique giant moving puppets and creatures.

Activities for children and adults will be running, so you’ll be able to create your own astonishing invention to take home. No booking necessary. Power to the puppets: heritageopendays.org.uk Pine Tree Farm Open Day Sunday, September 11, midday-4pm Visit the home of Animals in Need, meet the staff and learn more about the charity. Stalls will include a tombola/lucky dip, cards and crafts, bric a brac and refreshments. Perfect for all the family and great vegan choices to eat. Barking great: animals-in-need.org

The Thinking Drinkers Pub Quiz Thursday 8 September, 8pm (18+) Fancy five free drinks?

Two of the world’s leading alcohol experts return with a hilarious quiz show that gets the rounds in.

In more ways than one.

With a pen and question sheet in one hand and several world-class drinks in the other, join them on a uniquely absurd, fact-filled journey through time.

Bye Bye Baby: A Celebration of Frankie Valli Friday 16 September, 8pm Bye Bye Baby is a jawdropping tribute to the musical phenomenon ‘Jersey Boys’ and the timeless, iconic music of ‘Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons’.

Laurence Jones Sunday 18 September, 8pm Laurence Jones is firmly established as one of the UK’s hottest guitar players. He’s got a string of accolades and awards to his name winning “Young Artist Of The Year” in the British Blues Awards three years in a row.

Laurence and his band have supported and toured with the likes of Sir Van Morrison, Sir Ringo Starr, Status Quo and many more.

Penguin Café Tuesday 20 September, 8pm Arthur Jeffes much-loved collective – Penguin Cafe – are back in 2022 performing their eclectic array of genre-defying evocative pieces mixing Arthur’s beautiful compositions with some iconic PCO classics.

Some Kinda Wonderful presents…

The Wonder of Stevie Saturday 24 September, 8pm Celebrating the genius of Stevie Wonder, mesmeric vocalist Noel McCalla and award-winning saxophonist Derek Nash and their world-class live band present a diverse back catalogue of classic hits.

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

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WHATS ON

Cloudbusting: The music of Kate Bush Sunday, September 11 It’s been quite a few months for this group; following the resurgence of interest in Kate’s music after featuring on Stranger Things, Cloudbusting have been soaking up the interest, even appearing on This Morning with Holly and Phil.

They are back on familiar soil this month though, with a show at The Stables in Wavendon.

Love & Anger: stables.org Denton & District Gardening Club Flower and Produce Show Sunday, September 11, 2.30pm 4.30pm Free entry, raffle, homemade refreshments, plant stall and auction of surplus produce at Denton Village Hall, Vicarage Lane, NN7 1DT In bloom: Info, schedules and entry forms m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk or call 01604 890875 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Monday, September 12 – Saturday, September 24 The new production of the Tim Rice and Lloyd Webber smash-hit comes to Milton Keynes Theatre for a two week stay with Alexandra Burke as the narrator.

Any Dream Will Do: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Catch The Ultimate Classic Rock Show at the Stables on September 3

Milton Keynes Aviation Society Presents:

“The Falklands Remembered” September 13 2022 MKAS are proud to present a special evening commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Falklands conflict.

Joining us to deliver their own unique perspectives of the air war are: Rear Admiral Dr Chris Parry CBE PhD RN Commodore Neill Thomas CBE DSC RN retd Squadron Leader Bob Tuxford AFC RAF retd

Venue: The Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation The Hunt House, Paulerspury, Towcester NN12 7NA Doors open 6.15pm, lecture commences at 7.00pm Places must be booked in advance £10.00 per head. Please register with Chris Bosworth on 07860 629494 or cj.bos@ntlworld.com More details on www.mkas.co.uk

Left to right: Rear Admiral Dr Chris Parry CBE, Wessex 3 observer – rescued 16 stranded SAS troops and disabled Santa Fe submarine, Commodore Neill Thomas CBE DSC – Commanding Officer 899 Naval Air Squadron HMS Hermes, Squadron Leader Bob Tuxford AFC – Victor K2 tanker pilot – first ‘Black Buck’ mission

Denton & District Gardening Club Monday, September 12, 7.30pm A talk, ‘A Blaze of Glory; by Timothy Walker at Denton Village Hall, members free, visitors pay £3. There will be a raffle, refreshments and plant sale. All welcome, whether novice or experienced gardener.

Root of the issue: m.pateman@yahoo. co.uk or call 01604 890875 Fabulous Duck Brothers Tuesday, September 13, 7.30pm A group of ace players pay tribute to Eric Clapton’s solo career; including 24 Nights, The Blues Era, Derek and the Dominoes and Cream. Support comes from Big Al Duncan.

Wonderful (on Tuesday) Night: bletchleybluesclub.uk Heritage Open Days: The Heritage of Ouzel Valley Wednesday, September 14, 10am – 11.30am Book your free spot on a walking tour through areas used as grazing land, and find out more about the natural heritage and historical features, including the Scheduled Ancient Monuments and the abandoned medieval village at Woughton on the Green.

Step back in time: theparkstrust.com

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Heritage Open Days: British Rail – An Amazing Invention Wednesday, September 14, 7pm-9pm Respected railway historian and writer Christian Wolmar will be talking about his new book British Rail, and why it was wrong to break the company up. Prebooking is necessary for the event at Stony Stratford Library. On the right track: Call 01908 562025 to secure your space or email info@stonywords.org.uk Friendsical Wednesday, September 14 & Thursday, September 15 It was a smash hit at the 2019 Edinburgh Fringe, and now the new parody musical inspired by the iconic show comes to Northampton. The gang will take on naked Thursday’s, a power cut and a dinosaur convention. Central Perk: royalandderngate.co.uk Heritage Open Days: Milton Keynes Museum Open Day and Beer Festival Thursday, September 15 Sunday, September 18 Discover Milton Keynes Museum during HODs as well a chance to sample a selection of ales and ciders – mouthwatering drinks at thirst-quenching prices.

Held in the Museum courtyard and gardens in Wolverton, it is the perfect way to enjoy a late summer’s day. No need to book. Raise a glass: heritageopendays.org.uk Heritage Open Days – 78 Derngate: The Charles Rennie Mackintosh House Friday, September 16, 1pm-4pm Businessman W J Bassett-Lowke commissioned Mackintosh to completely transform his marital home in Northampton, which is now open to visitors. Guided tours are offered to those who wish to learn even more about the owner and the designer.

Who would live in a house like this?

Pre-booking essential on 01604 603407 Heritage Open Days: Islamic Centre tour Friday, September 16, 3pm-4.30pm Join Mohammed Ageli, the architect of the MK Islamic Centre in Coffee Hall, for a tour of the centre he designed. A Q&A session will follow and refreshments will be served.

No booking is necessary. Design ace: heritageopendays.org.uk Sinderella Friday, September 16, 7.30pm The adult panto returns with the naughtiest tale of them all. Drag Rave stars Detox and Janet Jacke are signed up, and sparkly sets and costumes, and a filthy ‘laugh a minute’ script will blend with cheesy anthems, frolics, fun and audience participation.

Charming but rude: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Make a Miniature Garden Saturday, September 17, 2pm For children and families aged six-10 years old. Build a miniature garden to take away using resources in the garden at Cowper and Newton Museum in Olney.

Usual admission fees apply. Email: info@cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk Heritage Open Days: National Badminton Museum Saturday, September 17, 11am-4pm An opportunity to find out more about the sport, which evolved from the old game of ‘battledore and shuttlecock’ way back in 1863. Volunteers will be on hand to show you around and answer any questions. No booking is required – just pop along to the venue on Bradwell Road at Loughton Lodge.

Sporting fun: heritageopendays.org.uk Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club Saturday, September 17, 7.45pm The Underground invites you to a smile inducing night out – with Adam Bloom, Naomi Cooper and Robert White.Are you having a laugh? Royalandderngate.co.uk Heritage Open Days: Cowper & Newton Museum Sunday, September 18, 11am-4pm The historic house, gardens and gallery are open all day, including the new exhibition, Amazing Grace.

Olney’s finest: heritageopendays.org.uk

Scottish Country Dancing Introduction course Monday, September 19th, 6.45pm till 7.45pm An 8 week course taught by qualified RSCDS teachers.

Bradwell Village Hall, MK13 9AG. Intro2scd@gmail.com www.rscdsmk.co.uk Big Dez Tuesday, September 20 Stop right here if you fancy electric blues mixed with humour and melancholy, strongly tinged with funk, soul and rock ‘n’ roll.

Energetic sounds: bletchleybluesclub.uk Inner Wheel Newport Pagnell Tuesday, September 20, 2pm A talk from the Old School House in Wolverton about the community building which is now operated by the not for profit benefit society, Future Wolverton.

The talk will be followed by refreshments and an update on the club activities for the remainder of the year. Newcomers welcome from Newport Pagnell, Olney and surrounding villages. Spinning: innerwheelnewportpagnell@gmail.com or call 01908 217356

September & October Highlights 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 NT Live: Prima Facie (15) New autumn dates to be announced Jodie Comer makes her West End debut in the UK premiere of Suzie Miller’s award-winning play, Prima Facie which takes us to the heart of where emotion and experience collide with the rules of the game.

NT Live: Much Ado About Nothing (12A) Thursday 8 September | 7pm Simon Godwin directs this irresistible comedy, broadcast live from the National Theatre stage.

NT Live: Jack Absolute Flies Again (12A) Saturday 8 October | 7pm Emily Burns directs this spectacularly entertaining new version of Sheridan’s The Rivals. Featuring Caroline Quentin, Laurie Davidson, Natalie Simpson and Kelvin Fletcher.

Royal Opera House Live ROH Live: Madama Butterfly Tuesday 27 September | 2pm Set in 19th-century Japan, Puccini’s heart-rending opera tells the tale of Cio-Cio-San, a young geisha who falls in love with an American soldier – and pays the ultimate price.

ROH Live: Mayerling Sunday 9 October | 2pm Dangerous desires, family secrets and political intrigues – a true story told through ballet.

ROH Live: Aida Sunday 16 October | 2pm Love and duty collide, and nations clash in Verdi’s political drama, starring Elena Stikhina and conducted by Antonio Pappano.

Exhibitions Vivian Maier: Anthology Until 25 September The first exhibition in the UK of acclaimed photographer Vivian Maier (1926 – 2009) – celebrating the talent and remarkable story of a Chicago nanny who took hundreds of thousands of photographs of everyday life, carefully storing them during her life and posthumously becoming one of the greatest street photographers of the 20th Century.

Vivian Maier, Self-portrait, New York, 1953 © Estate of Vivian Maier, Courtesy of Maloof Collection and Howard Greenberg Gallery, NY.

mkgallery.org

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

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WHATS ON

Dan Evans & Rebecca Hallworth Tuesday, September 20, 8pm Join dulcimer player, guitarist and composer Dan and actress and classically trained singer Rebecca as they team up for an evening of moving folk songs, beautiful traditional airs and original compositions at Northampton Folk Club, The Old White Hart (NN4 8BS) £8 on the doors.

Never a dul-cimer moment: english-dulcimer.com Remembering Live Variety Thursday, September 22 Roll back the years and enjoy good old fashioned music and laughter, with faces you remember – TV comedian Duncan ‘Chase Me’ Norvelle will be joined by singer Phil Harrison and his band, singer Shelley James and Phil Hoyles, who will deliver his tribute to Tommy Cooper.

Variety is the spice of life: thecorecorby.com Justin Hayward Thursday, September 22 The frontman with the Moody Blues, responsible of course for classics including Nights in White Satin and Tuesday Afternoon, visits Northampton Derngate.

Justin will deliver the music he loves, with a truly personal touch. Five decades of style: royalandderngate.co.uk Cycle4Cynthia Sunday 25th September, 9am Participants will leave Althorp House for five, 10, 25 or 50 mile routes. In the saddle: Registration at www.cynthiaspencer.org.uk/event/ C4C2022 or by calling 01604 973340

Rebecca Hallworth and Dan Evans join together at The Old White Hart this month

The Art of Textiles Saturday, September 24 & Sunday, September 25, 10am-4pm daily An exhibition created by textile artists Sandra Jenkins, Karin Kirk, Alyssa Robinson, Jane Stock and Val Taylor as part of Northants Open Studio.

Abstract and realistic stitched tectile and mixed media art, accessories and cards to inspire and buy, at Welford Village Hall, NN6 6HU. Demonstrations will feature and entry is free.

A stitch in time: visualise.online Inglorious Tuesday, September 27 The hard rock exponents are masters at what they do, and they are making their Milton Keynes return to do it for you again as part of their Until We Die tour.

Support comes from A New Tomorrow.

We Will Ride: thecraufurdarms.com Great West Groove Tuesday, September 27 A semi-acoustic band playing old style blues.

GWG are one of Bob Hokum’s bands and he is the man behind the Ealing Blues Festival.

If you are looking for quality, you’ve come to the right place!

Still got the blues: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Plenty to tackle – Martin Bayfield’s Rugby Legends at Northampton’s Royal and Derngate

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An Inspector Calls Tuesday, September 27 – Saturday, October 1 Written at the end of the Second World War and set before the first, JB Priestley’s compelling and haunting thriller returns.

Revelatory: Atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Buckingham Canal Society Thursday, September 29 Help needed at nature reserve sites – a chance to get fit, improve the environment and make new friends.

Get involved: Email info@buckinghamcanal.org.uk Martin Bayfield’s Rugby Legends Friday, September 30, 7.30pm From the police beat to the Hollywood movie screen to a Five Nations Grand Slam and MasterChef final, Martin has had a varied life, and he will join with former players to reveal an incredible insight into the sport. Like rugby? You’ll love this!

‘Try’ for tickets: royalandderngate.co.uk Jon Culshaw: Les Dawson Flying High Friday, September 30 Jon will deliver a funny and affectionate celebration of the comedy legend who entertained the nation. ‘Les’ will summon a wealth of characters and incidents from his life and career. May include adult material and strong language you’ve been warned!

Another one about the mother-in-law: stables.org Scott Bennett – Great Scott Friday, September 30 He’s already written for artists including Chris Ramsey and Jason Manford, and now Northampton Underground welcomes the stand-up familiar who is on the up and up to show his own flair.

Funny times: royalanaderngate.co.uk

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

THEATRE

HE’S ON THE STAGE!! Dom Joly visits Stantonbury

Pic: Tristram Kenton

Alexandra Burke and Jac Yarrow lead the cast in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

‘Joly’ good fun ahead at Stantonbury W illy Russell’s Blood Brothers is There were great episodes of the perfectly back on MK soil (August 30 – executed achingly funny, clever sketches, and September 3). The captivating then the show, which had been sold to more tale of twin boys who were than 80 countries, was done. separated at birth, and who grew “Trigger Happy TV was a bit like punk, up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet suddenly we could buy a camera that allowed again with fateful consequences, will encourage us to not rely on professional crews. We just the tears. Remember those hankies, folks! filmed and filmed and filmed...until we had Blood Brothers has been informally nothing but gold,” Dom said. christened the ‘standing ovation musical’ for a BBC show World Shut Your Mouth followed, reason. but when comedy burnt him out, he put pen to The ‘people’s poet’ Dr John Cooper Clarke paper, or rather fingers to keys for the Sunday (September 6) comes to Wavendon venue Times, made a travel show for Sky, and The Stables with his show, I Wanna Be applied himself to his big passion, Yours. writing travel books.

After shooting to prominence in Dom has visited the killing the 1970s, he became one of fields of Cambodia, went the most prolific artists of the to Chernobyl before it was punk years. fashionable, been on a coach His wordy-way has spanned tour of North Korea and roadcultures, audiences, art forms tripped through Syria. Did and continents. Worth taking a we mention he went skiing ticket to listen to John digging into in Iran?

Dr John Cooper Clarke his 2018 collection, The Luckiest On his travels, Dom Joly Guy Alive, with beautiful prose like reaches the parts that most of us Get Back On Drugs You Fat F*ck and don’t. His one-man show goes that I’ve Fallen In Love With My Wife. And there is a bit further too – as you’ll find out if you whole load more where that came from. take a ticket to see him at Stantonbury Campus The Thinking Drinkers Pub Quiz (September (Saturday, September 10).

8) is a chance to partake in a seriously funny You’ll get stories from his travels, holiday quiz show with lots of ‘rounds’ and five free snaps and videos and maybe the odd school drinks for audience members. Raise your glass photo – he went to school with Osama Bin to an absurd, fact-filled journey through time.

Laden, you know!

Over 18s only, for obvious reasons.

The new Palladium production of the Rice/ At the start of the new millennium, we were Webber musical Joseph and the Amazing introduced to Trigger Happy TV. It was a Friday Technicolor Dreamcoat will enjoy a two week night session for the soul sitting between stay at MK Theatre (September 12-24) and Friends and Frasier, and it was funnier than you’ll get to hear that song. You know, that one. those shows too.

Jac Yarrow has already taken on (and won) The man responsible, Dom Joly, had in the West End, and he’s doing just as well in previously worked as a political reporter for ITV the role of Joseph as he tours these isles. A and a diplomat before finding the funny with his colourful delivery is easy in that special attire, pal Sam Cadman. but he’s got a lot more going on too. Jac will

Jon Culshaw plays Les Dawson at The Stables

be joined by X-Factor winner turned stage favourite Alexandra Burke, who is on board as the narrator.

When Joseph departs, An Inspector Calls.

Stephen Daldry’s production of the JB Priestly thriller has bagged 19 major awards and more than five million people worldwide have sat down to a performance. A peaceful dinner party is shattered by investigations into the death of a young woman. Revelations will ask us all to examine our consciences. Anyone for dessert? Didn’t think so.

Last up in our trawl through the best of this month’s goodies is an affectionate celebration of the inimitable Les Dawson at The Stables.

Back when TV used to bring the nation together, it was the Forsythe’s, Grayson’s and Dawson’s that were leading the charge.

This new play is being delivered by ace impressionist Jon Culshaw as Les, who will > Tickets: MK Theatre: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes The Stables: stables.org Stantonbury Theatre: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

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PUZZLES

View from the Far Kerb

Just in Case

I

need extra cash and am not alone. So I decided to have a clear out and sell those items that I have been holding onto, just in case.

Online selling seemed the way to realise vast amounts of wealth.

Within a week, I figured on being the richest person in the area.

Governments would want to borrow funds from me. Elon Musk would probably ask me to slip him a few bob.

Things looked good.

Stuff to sell that I had been holding onto, just in case, was identified. It was unexpectedly difficult. As a bloke, everything is potentially worth holding onto, just in case. It is the reason garages exist.

Regardless, I dug out things that occupied dark corners or lurked in drawers in my home then set about tackling the internet.

It wasn’t as difficult as I had expected and before too long I was advertising much that various people wanted, just in case.

Once they found buyers the next step was for me to count up how rich I had become.

My prosperity had rocketed and there were now many dozens of Pounds in my bank account. In order to legitimise the money I had to send the sold things to the buyers. That is where the fun started.

Boxes were needed. A certain online retailer tends to use a great many and so countless were available to be re-used. However, once I had packaged one of the things I had been holding onto, just in case, it became clear that it wasn’t just weight that determined posting cost. There were issues regarding size that needed to be considered so as to not blow all my new found riches on postage. The result was lots of remodelling with a sharp knife and scissors so as to reduce the package dimensions.

Also, in order to ensure that those things I had been holding onto, just in case, would arrive intact to their new owners who probably wanted them, just in case; I required internal packaging and padding. As the aforementioned online retailer sends out a free tree with each of their packages in the form of crumpled brown paper, I reused it for my own parcels. Unfortunately, it added much weight.

There was no choice. Everything I posted needed to be well packed so their new owners received them in a condition that made them worth holding onto, just in case. The costs went up beyond what I had imagined. I had bought sticky tape and used an awful lot of it to wrap everything securely. Then there was the paper and printer ink for the address labels.

After having struggled with my penknife while refashioning the first box I had replaced it with a small craft knife bought from that major online retailer.

There were more costs behind getting rich than I had originally thought.

If you are reading this, Mr Musk, can you leave it a while as I’m not exactly flush at the moment...

PHIL O’HARA

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!

9

4 8

6

8

3

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6

3

2

9 4 2

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1

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8 9

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3

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2

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QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10 11 12

13

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16 19

15

17 20

18

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24

23

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Clues Across 1. Wood preservative (8) 5. Cattle meat (4) 9. Appease (7) 10. Ghostly (5) 11. Cacophony (3) 12. Channel island (6) 15. Rapid (5) 17. Existed (4) 19. Bargain (6) 22. Source (6) 24. Region (4)

33

35

26. Cook in oven (5) 27. Farmhouse (6) 30. Pitch (3) 32. Scrounge (5) 33. Model (7) 34. Diminutive (4) 35. Betrothal (8)

Clues Down 1. Manage (4) 2. Uplift (5) 3. Drenches (5) 4. Craft technique (3-3) 6. Item of jewellery (7)

7. Momentary (8) 8. Incense holder (6) 13. Loose carpet (3) 14. Large jug (4) 16. Quick route (5,3) 18. Bellow (4) 20. Make happy (7) 21. Second of two (6) 23. Hostelry (3) 25. Departure (6) 28. Texan battle site (5) 29. Yawns (5) 31. Hades (4)

Solutions to Sudoku and Quick Crossword can be found on page 72 For the latest local news visit www.mkpulse.co.uk | MK Pulse Magazine | September 2022

71

Your stars LOCAL NEWS

HOWARD PARKER

THE ASTRO-GUIDE

Flavour of the Times - As ever, September brings comeuppance!

Agriculturally, the quality of the harvest (Virgo rules the harvest) is determined by the type of summer we have had. In all sorts of symbolic ways, we reap what we have sown in the spring and summer. It’s the time for sifting the wheat from the chaff, getting organised, going back to work, starting the new term. Mars will accent this for a while early this month by probably increasing stress levels as you suddenly realise quite how much needs doing!

VIRGO August 24 – September 23

CAPRICORN December 23 – January 20

TAURUS April 21 – May 21

LIBRA September 24 – October 23

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 19

GEMINI May 22 – June 21

Virgo – the maker of lists! Yours is likely to be a long one too as your analytic mind intuitively knows what needs to be done and how to prioritise the most important tasks.

Mars adds energy to this so you will either be in your element or getting stressed out as you start to recognise just how disorganised things have got during the summer.

It’s as if Pluto has been in your sign forever and it’s still revisiting aspects of your life you thought you had sorted out, but some things still don’t sit right. Pluto is like a tsunami – very slow but unstoppable once it gets going, so you have little choice but to go with it. You may be concluding you are on some sort of unknown journey but you’re not sure where to.

Some people may insist on making mountains out of molehills now as Jupiter is generally ‘bigging things up’ for you and, potentially making problems appear much worse than they are. I wouldn’t spend too much time on this and don’t let it divert you from what you think are the most important priorities for the approaching autumn.

Saturn is supposed to be favoured in Aquarius but it may not feel like it these days. You might feel burdened, exhausted, heavy and depressed by the weight of it all. It is not as if things are actually all that bad but you can’t shake off the heaviness and get that lighter feeling back that you used to have. Stick with it and plod onwards: no other option, really. Hopefully it will bear fruit in the end.

SCORPIO October 24 – November 22

PISCES February 20 – March 20

SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 22

ARIES March 21 – April 20

The new moon wants to bring some order into your life and just for once, you might grudgingly feel that it is right. You’ve been floating around for too long now and you may have lost the plot completely. Mars is around to give you some energy now so just take a look at how things are going and see if you can pin-point what needs to change.

Think volcanoes coming out of the sea and how they change the very geography of the land where you are. That’s the symbolism as Uranus continues to come up at you from deep down underground. You might consider that the volcanic reactions are actually coming from deep inside YOU. They could be trying to show you what needs to fundamentally change in your life.

Lots of action too close to home might actually be starting to make you feel claustrophobic – like you definitely need to get away from it all. The new moon is a challenge this month because it wants you to deal with the kinds of details you really can’t be bothered with. This might not be the best time to just turn your back on it all as some things just have to be faced.

Maybe the wheels are falling off some parts of your life that you have been putting huge energy into? Maybe there has been some emotional or physical pain – either yours or someone close – that is really unsettling you.

Either way, you should somehow find a way to slow down and gather your energies for what lies ahead.

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To really understand what this means for you on a personal level during 2022, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation that is completely specific to you and your life. This will illuminate many things that you may not have considered and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year. * 9 , 6 : 6 ; ,

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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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Time to reflect on the blessings you have in this life, I suggest. If you have had good fortune this summer, celebrate it with someone close to you and consider how you can help all those out there who may be struggling with life at the moment. Leos are at their best when they shine and others benefit when they do so.

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LEO July 24 – August 23

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Time to focus in on what is most important to you as we head towards the autumn. You will be feeling more domestically inclined now, I expect, and there will be a lot to do. There could be some transformations at home now and there is probably some redecoration or building work to be done around your personal space.

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CANCER June 22 – July 23

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Some people will want to pin you down and impose certain commitments this month, but you may come across as being evasive merely because there is so much of interest going on out there right now to put your energy into. Stay as flexible as you can but make sure you take your responsibilities seriously too.

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Maybe there are opportunities now to heal old wounds and stop wars either within yourself or within your family (particularly over children?).

But you need to really try to see beyond the immediate problems and just take small practical steps in the right direction. Helpful opportunities to let go of past issues come around 10th of the month so don’t forget to take them.

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