NN Pulse Magazine May 2025

TFrom the

Editor

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

here’s something rather special about this time of year — a quiet energy as the days stretch out and our calendars fill with fairs, fundraisers and festivals. Spring suits Northamptonshire particularly well. This is a place where community matters, where small ideas often grow into something remarkable.

Take the Franklins £50 Challenge. What began as a modest initiative has already raised £17,000 for local charities, with more to come. It’s a shining example of what’s possible when people come together with purpose — and it’s exactly the sort of local spirit we’re proud to celebrate.

We’re also taking a moment to reflect on the tireless work of Animals in Need, as founder Roy Marriott marks a significant milestone. “As long as animals need me, my work will never be finished,” he says — a simple statement that captures a lifetime of compassion. His story, told by Pulse’s Sammy Jones, is a gentle but powerful reminder of what can be achieved with unwavering dedication.

Closer to home — and to the table — Northamptonshire Food & Drink Week returns at the end of May. From tastings and pop-ups to special menus and behind-the-scenes tours, it’s a celebration of the people and produce that make our county’s food scene so vibrant. Whether you’re a pub-goer, a coffee lover, or someone who simply enjoys a good plate of something local, there’ll be plenty to savour.

We’re also looking forward to the new Makers Market and Food Festival at Lamport Hall on 10th May — a chance to meet over 80 talented artisans and discover everything from hand-poured candles to small-batch gin and handmade homewares. A lovely way to support the county’s creative heart.

And for a quieter moment, Laura Malpas offers a springtime stroll around Braunston — following the Oxford Canal and Grand Union Canal through one of our most characterful villages. Whatever your plans this month, I hope you find time to enjoy what Northamptonshire does best — community, creativity, and that quiet sense of pride in the place we call home.. Enjoy the issue!

Read previous editions online: www.pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 01604 935300 nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 17 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks MK46 5EA Connect with us on socials: /pulsemagazines @pulsemagazines nnpulsemagazine

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Billy Lockett’s hometown hat trick hits a high note for Cynthia Spencer Hospice

Northampton-born singersongwriter Billy Lockett has announced a third festive hometown show this December — and is once again calling on fans to support a cause close to his heart.

The newly added performance on Tuesday, 16 December rounds off a trio of intimate Christmas concerts at The Picturedrome. The first two dates sold out swiftly, with fans given the option to make a donation to Cynthia Spencer Hospice during ticket checkout. The default contribution is £2, though supporters are welcome to give more or opt out.

The hospice holds special meaning for Billy. Both his father — the artist John Luce Lockett — and his aunty were cared for there, and the singer continues to speak fondly of the compassion shown to his family.

“Cynthia Spencer looked after both my aunty and my dad before they passed. It’s such a warm and welcoming place — the

staff were full of empathy and kindness,” he said.

During his father’s stay, John gifted the hospice a striking painting of a man climbing a mountain, which still hangs on the wall. Billy recalls regular visits to his aunty, often filled with light-hearted moments.

“She saw it as a bit of a holiday — she genuinely enjoyed the social side. She absolutely loved it there.”

Michelle Morris, from Cynthia Spencer, added:

“Thank you to Billy for using his platform to shine a light on the vital work of our hospice. All donations make such a huge difference to the care we provide.

“We are so grateful to Billy for supporting us in this way. He is always warmly welcomed at his hometown gigs, and we hope that his fans will consider donating to

us again as part of this fantastic third show.”

Tickets for the third show are on sale now, with donation options available at checkout.

Scan the code to find out more about how you can help support Cynthia Spencer Hospice.

Billy Lockett

Credit: Gavin Wallace

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Franklins £50 Challenge hits halfway milestone with

£17,000 raised for local

charities

With just weeks to go, the Franklins £50 Challenge is on track for a record-breaking finish — as local teams across Northampton and Milton Keynes rally to raise vital funds for 12 regional charities.

Asthe Franklins £50 Challenge enters its final stretch, fundraising efforts from local businesses have already brought in nearly £17,000 (excluding gift aid) — and momentum is building fast ahead of the campaign’s conclusion on 23 May.

Now in full swing, the annual initiative sees teams from across Northampton, Milton Keynes and beyond turn £50 in seed funding, provided by Franklins Solicitors, into as much money as possible for their chosen charity. This year, 12 local causes are benefiting — including The Lewis Foundation, Cynthia Spencer Hospice, Willen Hospice and The Air Ambulance Service.

More than 60 teams have taken part in a huge variety of fundraising events, from bake sales, quizzes and disco bingo to more daring efforts such as head shaving, waxing and even samosa making. The community spirit has been unmistakable — and the creativity, endless.

Looking ahead, the challenge’s final weeks promise everything from football tournaments and marathons to a Three Peaks Challenge and a charity skydive.

Among the participants is Jacob Holmes

The Kirkby Diamond team from the Franklins £50 Challenge pose with Karen Hughes from The Air Ambulance Service. From left to right: Jacob Holmes, Paul Quy, Karen Hughes, Paul Hazell, Steve Cable

'As long as animals need me, my work will never be finished'

As Animals in Need celebrates a special year, Pulse’s Sammy Jones checks in with founder Roy Marriott and his wife, Annie, to see how the charity first took shape...

Roy Marriott is celebrating a birthday of sorts in 2025. It’s one that will last all year long and is quite the milestone.

He has a large number of ‘wants’ on his present list, too; nothing fancy, just things like hypoallergenic dog treats, blue rolls and rabbit water bottle covers!

In 2025, the charity he founded and has spent half a lifetime grafting for, is 35 years old.

Animals in Need is a beacon of safety where thousands of animals and birds both unfortunate (because they’ve often been

failed by humans) and fortunate (because here they couldn’t be in better hands) find themselves every year.

Roy’s own passion for animals began as it did for so many others. His family had dogs as a child. Except that Roy took this love of canines to the next level!

“My first dog was a collie cross called Rusty,” he remembers, fondly, “I grew up in Moulton in the 1950s – back when Moulton was still a village! Rusty belonged to our neighbours, but they decided they didn’t want him anymore because he was a roamer and would often take off, so my parents took him in,” although one suspects that the young Roy might have been persuasive in helping them to make that decision!

Decades on and Rusty still occupies a special place in Roy’s heart, but there have been more than a few pooches who have since followed.

“Rusty was the first, but after him we always had dogs. The saying is that ‘a dog makes a house a home’, and you won’t hear me disagreeing with that!”

Still, plenty of us invite dogs and cats to share our abodes, but we don’t all set up animal sanctuaries. Roy had an affinity with animals, and from an early age he was smitten.

He learned about bugs in the garden, rescued injured birds, and as he grew older, the idea of a rescue centre became more appealing.

He set up AIN independently, originally operating out of his former home in Lings, Northampton. He simply couldn’t have dared dream just what it would turn into.

“Originally, the idea was for AIN to lend a hand and support other existing rescues...” he said with a laugh, “I hadn’t given much of a thought about how things might end up! The more invested in helping that I became, the more I realised there were some big gaps in care and many animals weren’t getting the help they needed. That’s when I began ramping things up.

“One of the areas where AIN became active was taking in dogs from the local council pound – dogs who wind up there only have

Roy and Annie through the years –

A strong team with a shared focus on the welfare of all animals

a limited time to be reunited with owners, or found a new home, before potentially they are put to sleep.

“We would step in to ensure those dogs were given a second chance at life. Almost without me realising, the charity began to grow... and grow...”

Again, certain animals leave their mark with Roy, and the first pound dog he took in is one of them: “He was a lovely Collie Cross called Max,” he says with a smile.

Eventually, and not without a lot of blood, sweat, tears and begging for pennies, the charity was able to purchase Pine Farm at Little Irchester.

“Before we purchased the farm we ran the charity from our homes, and we were so very thankful to finally get the farm and build the sanctuary,” said Roy’s wife, AIN manager, Annie.

The charity actually brought them together too – a real love story set against a backdrop of fur and feathers!

“My parents adopted a dog from the charity 27 years ago, and I signed up to volunteer at the kennel block which Animals in Need were renting at the time,” Annie said, “I started off walking the dogs, before moving into rescues, which I loved, but I had a job. When I was made redundant from that position, Roy offered me a job working in the kennels...”

They bonded over a shared passion to rescue others: “We were working all hours alongside one another and in hindsight I suppose it was inevitable that we would end up together.

“We drive each other insane because we are both very strong willed, but together we have saved thousands and thousands of lives,” she paused, before adding, “We were meant to be.”

Annie and Roy don’t just work on site, they live there too, and that work never stops.

Assisted by a small team of staff and a mini army of volunteers, they do their absolute best for every last creature who arrives on site – whether that be a pigeon which has been attacked, a dog finding itself homeless after its forever home suddenly turns out not to be, or a chicken, rescued from slaughter after enduring a dreadful life as a battery hen. They have successfully rehomed thousands of those.

“We take as many birds as we can, but we can’t take them all, and for those we can’t accommodate it can mean a death sentence. I simply hate that we can’t take more, but there are obviously space restrictions... there is always more that can be done, and for as long as I’m able, I will keep pushing to do more.”

At the time of writing, the charity had 334 patients in its wildlife hospital. There are also full to bursting kennels and the cattery, the farm animals, reptiles, rodents and small furries.

It’s rewarding work, but it’s certainly not glamorous – staff spend their days dealing with poop, and injured, abused and unwanted animals, often working outside in all weathers.

Finding the time for a toilet break can sometimes seem like a luxury. But they are all united by the bond to do best for those who rely on them.

And with more and more animals in crisis, they need more than the three acres of space they currently have. Much more.

“We could really do with another 30 acres!” Annie says, and she is only half joking. Given a larger base they could help so many more animals.

“Going forward, we definitely need more land. That’s the long term goal that needs to be realised,” she says, resolutely.

Fewer are more committed to the cause than the man and wife team without whom AIN wouldn’t exist.

“As long as animals need me, my work will never be finished,” promises Roy, whose vocabulary definitely doesn’t include the word retirement!

> The easiest way that you can provide AIN with a little cheer in their birthday year is to visit their website animals-in-need.org and navigate to their How You Can Help page.

A snap from Roy and Annie s wedding album

Back where it began – how the local press reported the battle to start the sanctuary

Before AIN, Roy and Annie rented a kennel block which was prone to flooding

Running an animal sanctuary can be a fowl business, but every bird who comes to AIN is guaranteed compassion and care

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Excitement is mounting as Northampton Carnival prepares to ignite the streets once more with colour, rhythm, and community spirit. This year’s spectacular event takes place on Saturday 14th June at Racecourse Park, Kettering Road, Northampton NN1 4LG, bringing together a fusion of creativity and heritage under the striking theme: “The Elements of Carnival – Earth, Wind, Fire, Water.” Chosen to mark the 350th anniversary of the

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Great Fire of Northampton, the theme invites troupes and float designers to interpret the natural forces through costume, dance, and display, honouring the town’s resilience and spirit through carnival’s signature energy and flair.

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Northamptonshire Food & Drink Week returns: May 31st - June 8th, 2025

Organised by Made in Northamptonshire and the Northamptonshire Tourism Business Network, the 2025 Food & Drink Week shines a spotlight on the people, places and produce that make up the county’s vibrant independent food and drink scene. Expect a packed programme of special events, menus, pop ups, tastings, tours, collaborations and more, taking place at locations all around Northamptonshire.

Organisers hope the week-long celebration – sponsored by Wilson Browne Solicitorswill help local food and drink businesses to raise their profile and attract new customers. Whether pubs, restaurants, cafes, caterers, food or drink producers, all businesses need to attract more customers and generate

more sales, and this returning Food & Drink Week is a great way to do that, bringing together local producers, chefs, a broad range of venues, food and drink enthusiasts. From a Food and Drink Festival at Delapré Abbey on June 7th-8th, to product tastings, and special menus at pubs and restaurants all around the county, there really is something for everybody.

> If you’re planning an event that showcases local food and drink during that week – or would like to get involved – contact Rachel and Kate at info@northamptonshiresurprise.com

Wayne Jenkins from sponsors Wilson Browne Solicitors visiting the Red Lion at Cranfield, a Greedy Gordons pub

Wayne Jenkins visiting students at Northampton College

Wayne Jenkins from sponsors Wilson Browne Solicitors visiting the team at Jeyes of Earls Barton

A new museum has opened in the heart of Milton Keynes, and this one is guaranteed to appeal to kids of all ages. Sammy Jones spoke to the man responsible for bringing Brickz alive...

ess than four years ago, Milton Keynes welcomed a new addition to its attraction list, and the National Film & Sci Fi Museum has proven a big hit with its ridiculously cool exhibits.

Props, costumes, art and footage from some of the biggest films have been assembled within its space; movie moments spanning Star Wars to Indiana Jones and Harry Potter to Marvel

Later, the Pixel Bunker retro arcade opened its doors from the same site at Lloyds Court. And now, there is a third attraction under the roof: Brickz - the Museum dedicated to all things LEGO®

None of these things have happened overnight, but they are all from the mind of dedicated collector Jason Joiner.

The Milton Keynes man, who also delivers the super successful Collectormania film and comic con, has built these collections up one prop at a time, or – as in the case of the new attraction – one brick at a time!

And what a lot Jason has got – Brickz features more than five million bricks, taking you through official sets, custom MOCs (My Own Creations) and the full history of the LEGO® brand, which began with wooden toys almost a century ago.

“I’ve been enchanted by LEGO since I was just seven years old, back when I got my first LEGO Castle in 1978,” Jason said, explaining the start of his fascination, “The mini-figures were a big hit with me. They brought so much joy and sparked my imagination, and here I am, decades later, still captivated by the creativity they foster.”

People the world over love the LEGO® brand – it’s one of the most famous names in all of children’s toys. Having an appreciation for it is one thing, but where did Jason’s passion to collect and preserve it come from?

“Collecting has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember,” he smiled, “My dad was a collector of fire engines, and collecting just seemed like a normal thing in our household.

The man behind BrickzJason Joiner

“For me, LEGO wasn’t just to be appreciated and then put aside; it was about preserving a piece of childhood, a tactile link to memories that are universal yet deeply personal.

“I am also a historian who wants to tell the story of LEGO and preserve it for others to see. There was no place like this in Britain, and now we have the Brickz Museum where people can see all the sets they had as a child.”

If you had a penchant for LEGO® as a wee nipper, or older, Brickz will take you right back to the moment. Its rooms are bursting with phenomenal displays, which have taken months to organise. It is creative and colourful, and then some!

Even if the lure of LEGO® somehow bypassed you, you’ll have a healthy respect for all that is featured here. You can feel the passion in the displays.

“This collection is a labour of love and persistence and it represents a comprehensive history of LEGO, from its beginnings in the 1930s to the iconic plastic bricks and minifigures known globally today.

“Every piece in this collection tells a story, and together, they narrate the evolution of not just a toy, but an icon of creativity.”

And Jason has searched high and low and spent a small fortune bringing the best of the best together for this new venture.

Asking Jason for his favourite pieces is akin to asking which child a parent prefers, but he has three creations that hold a special place.

“The LEGO Castle from 1978 is definitely one of them,” he said, “It was the very set that started it all for me. It’s more than just bricks; it’s the cornerstone of my lifelong journey with LEGO. Then there’s the first-ever poseable minifigure, the LEGO policeman from 1978. It’s special because it marks a significant evolution in the design of LEGO, making the play experience more dynamic.

“Lastly, the massive blue space station model, with its 15,000 bricks, is a testament to the limitless possibilities of what can be built with LEGO.”

That policeman figure is also one of the rarest hosted at the CMK site: “It’s a pivotal piece in the history of LEGO, marking a moment when the figures could be more than static shapes.”

Brickz opened its doors in April and has proven to be an instant hit with all ages wanting to engage with the 3,500 square foot space, which has been set up as a charity dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the iconic brick. It must surely be one of the most complete and largest collections of the famous LEGO® name and its story anywhere.

You could imagine the company itself being wowed by the care and attention that has gone into telling this story.

Aside from its impressive exhibits, the space will also be hosting presentations and talks, with plans to hold dedicated themed events and educational activities.

The LEGO® brand has its HQ in Denmark, so a comprehensive Museum like this being built (pun intended!) in Milton Keynes might seem a little strange. Think again.

“Milton Keynes is deeply connected with LEGO in the UK. The LEGO World exhibition was held in 1982 in Middleton Hall, and the brand opened its first UK LEGO Retail Store here in 2002.

“So, while London might have the bigger name, Milton Keynes has the historic connection with LEGO and is therefore the best place to tell the story.

“This Museum will resonate with anyone who has ever connected a couple of LEGO bricks together,” Jason promises, “Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual fan, or a curious newcomer, there’s something here to ignite the imagination of children and adults alike.

“It’s a celebration of creativity, engineering, and nostalgia.”

Essentially, it’s a toy-mendous excuse to let the child in you run free and the collector in you be inspired, and you can rest assured that Jason will continue to build up this impressive collection for future generations to enjoy, one block at a time.

> Visit Brickz at Secklow Gate West, MK9 3AT. The Museum is open Monday - Sunday during school holidays, and Friday - Sunday during term time. Visit BrickzMuseum.com for more information.

The exhibits will appeal to all ages, young and old

Brickz opened its doors in April with some special guests

Marvel at the skill involved in imagining and creating the larger displays at Brickz

Braunston

Two canals and a cathedral

This month Laura Malpas takes a spring walk around the village of Braunston and a short meander alongside the Oxford Canal and the Braunston arm of the Grand Union Canal.

Ilove a reason to get outside in May, to enjoy the milder weather and the unfurling of the blossom and green leaves of the new season. This month I explore the story of Braunston to the west of the county, and if you too like the outdoors, I have a circular walk for you to enjoy, courtesy of the Canal and River Trust.

Braunston’s story goes way back before the beginning of the historic record.

Close to the centre of England, the Northamptonshire hills drop down to the west, towards the Warwickshire plain. This fertile area is crossed by ancient paths reaching up a central stony ridge towards the ancient settlements of Daventry,

Borough Hill and the Roman Watling Street. Small settlements of agricultural farmsteads and dwellings grew alongside these links, and at some stage one of these was owned by a Saxon probably named Brand or Brant. ‘Brandeston’ was the name for Braunston recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 following the Norman Conquest.

Looking towards the Braunston Link Bridges 93 and 94

There were other connected settlements nearby, Little Braunston still exists, but Braunston Cleves and the fortified Braunstonbury were abandoned, only evident now in the archaeological record.

The Domesday Book suggests that in the 11th century Brandeston was well established with its own mill, essential for processing the grain grown on the land, and a Norman church built on high ground overlooking the village.

All Saints’ Church has been built three times over the years. The first rebuild following an incident in 1290, when there appears to have been some nefarious behaviour from the congregation involving bloodshed, and possibly even murder. This led to problems requiring the rebuilding of the church before normal services were allowed. The truth of this story lies hidden in the past, but I would love to learn more!

The De Ros family held the manor for 300 years and oversaw the first rebuilding. The church contains a few medieval remains, including the beautifully carved memorial of the 4th Baron Ros, a celebrated knight who fought with Edward III at Crecy and Calais. He died on pilgrimage to Jerusalem in 1352 and was probably buried there. Still found inside the church lies its oldest object, the font. This simple barrel shaped stone basin has welcomed new members to the village church for a thousand years.

For several centuries Braunston was a peacefully agricultural place, welcoming travellers and traders passing through the area. Unrest and change during the 17th Century resulted in an increase of traffic between London and the west and north of Britain and Ireland. Roads were improved and turnpikes introduced to help fund their maintenance, but a better solution was needed to carry goods through the land. In 1760 the innovative Duke of Bridgewater began a canal system to service his mines in Cheshire carrying coal and goods to customers in Manchester and Liverpool. The potential of canals to ease the problem of reliable transportation quickly became apparent. And before long, Braunston would no longer be a sleepy agricultural settlement, but a busy transport hub.

All Saints Church, Braunston

In 1767 plans began to build a canal to connect Coventry to the Trent and Mersey Canal. This plan evolved to connect Coventry with Oxford via Banbury. Rather than the usual practice of keeping as straight a course as possible, a more sinuous route was planned. The shareholders of the Oxford Canal Company, mostly wealthy landowners, wanted the route to suit their personal interests and land holdings, and therefore minimising disturbances from the construction team, the ‘navigators’ quickly nicknamed ‘navvies’, and from subsequent traffic on the canal. The surveyor noted ‘Thus the navigators will have no business to stop for any purpose, so the apprehended Danger from the inroads of Bargemen will be less’. This route also followed contours of the land reducing the need for the expensive construction of locks to alter the height of the canal.

The link between Langford and Braunston opened in 1774, and in the same year the Parish Records state that ‘coal was first brought to Braunston by water carriage in November’. By 1778 the link was completed as far as Banbury, and in 1790 the link to Oxford was completed with much celebration, the first boat entering Oxford containing a performing brass band. Within months, the opening of the Coventry Canal had made the Oxford Canal the main link between London and most of the major manufacturing cities in England.

Braunston was increasingly busy, and it became clear that further investment would be profitable. The village was well situated to service the people, the boats and the horses providing their pulling

power travelling along the network, and the villagers prospered. However, the sinuous curving route slowed down the passage of the boats along the Oxford Canal, and proposals were made by many hopeful investors to improve efficiency of travel by opening up a new straighter wider and more direct route. Good news for the users but less so for the shareholders of the original canal.

In 1793 after much political negotiation and haggling, the Grand Junction Canal Company began construction at

Braunston, heading south uphill towards Brentford, passing behind the farmsteads and the mill in Little Braunston. Six new locks double the width of those on the Oxford Canal were constructed. Lock no 3 was built next to an old farmhouse whose owners quickly began to sell beer and refreshments to passers-by. They named their establishment after the current naval hero, the Admiral Nelson. The old mill owner had a similar idea, his mill race was incorporated into the canal, the mill building became The Anchor public house at the top lock. The windmill built as his compensation still stands on the higher ground next to the church.

Eventually the Oxford Canal was shortened creating a new junction, the ‘Braunston Turn’ which necessitated a beautiful pair of cast-iron bridges to be installed allowing pedestrians to cross both canals. Nearby is the ingenious turnover bridge, which allowed the towing horse to cross from the towpath on one side of the canal to the other without needing to be uncoupled.

Braunston thrived, and its perfect location as a hub for many related industries led to a growing community. A marina for boat building and repair

Little Braunston Bridge 3

Braunston Turn, where the Oxford Canal meets the Grand Union Canal

was an obvious development, but Braunston also had space for coal-based industries, such as blacksmith and farrier work, brick manufacture, malting and brewing. Easy access to coal encouraged the Horsely Iron Works to open a branch at the new Marina in 1834 with the elegant cast-iron bridge bearing their name erected by Thomas Telford. Many freight companies opened depots, and much of the waterways admin was conducted in offices at Braunston.

During these prosperous years, Braunston's church had its third rebuild with money donated by those working on the canals. It was at this time that the nickname The ‘Cathedral of the Canals’ was coined. The number of people using the church had vastly increased with the development of the canals and capacity to house the larger congregation was increased, as was the graveyard.

The tide began to turn for Braunston with the development of the railways. Initially it brought a new prosperity during their construction as materials were transported via canal, and the routes ran parallel to each other. Once the railway opened in 1834 things changed overnight. Many staff transferred to the railways, but not the boatmen themselves. Braunston’s golden era was over. The introduction of steam powered boats helped somewhat, but the rise of road transport and the changes in society and travel patterns meant that decline was inevitable.

Today, Braunston has a thriving village community, and offers a different pace of life as a hub for many leisure activities. It’s an attractive place to visit, buzzing with recreational boaters, walkers, birdwatchers, artists and history lovers, and those simply wanting to enjoy a

relaxing lunch by the water. Overlooking the village, the church is also worth a visit and the High Street has fascinating old buildings, pubs, a chippy and a great butcher’s shop. With something to interest all ages, it’s a favourite place to visit on a sunny evening or a weekend. My family and dog recently enjoyed following the 3½ mile circular walk offered online by the Canal and River Trust followed by a delicious meal at the Admiral Nelson pub at Lock no 3. Highly recommended!

Why not visit and explore the heart of England’s waterways right in our doorstep?

www.waterways.org.uk/waterways/ using-the-waterways/activities/braunstonvillage-canal-circular-heritage-walk www.admiralnelsonbraunston.co.uk

For more information on the history of the canals of Braunston, please read the excellent book by David Blagrove At the Heart of the Waterways ISBN 1 871918 05 7

The Northamptonshire Heritage Forum has something for everyone interested in learning more about our county’s history. If you would like more information, or are interested in joining the Forum and supporting its work, please visit www.northamptonshireheritageforum.co.uk

Braunston Turn signpost

A canal lock in operation

What are an executor’s duties towards a missing beneficiary

As an executor or administrator of an estate, your duty extends beyond merely distributing assets; it includes the responsibility to use all reasonable means to locate missing beneficiaries. If the missing beneficiary turned up after you had wrongly distributed their £50,000 inheritance, you could find yourself personally on the hook to the extent of their loss.

‘In order to fulfil your duties to administer the estate properly, it is imperative to exhaust every possible avenue to find a missing beneficiary,’ says Susan Owens, senior partner at Borneo Martell Turner Coulston. ‘We can guide you through this complex process, ensuring that all reasonable steps are taken and that you are protected from any potential legal repercussions.’

In this article, Susan Owens highlights some of the issues involved in an estate where a beneficiary cannot be located. While beneficiaries may go missing for a variety of reasons, common scenarios include lack of contact over many years, relocation without providing new contact details, and estrangement from the deceased person.

It is particularly common in cases where there is no will, as the intestacy rules dictate how a deceased person’s estate is distributed.

NORTHAMPTON

29 Billing Road

Northampton NN1 5DQ 01604 622101

KETTERING

18 Brooklands Court

Kettering Venture Park

Kettering NN15 6FD 01536 523434

bmtclaw.co.uk

Legal implications of a missing beneficiary

Executors and administrators have an important duty (sometimes called a fiduciary duty) towards all the beneficiaries of an estate, whether named in a will or entitled under the intestacy rules.

Failing to locate a missing beneficiary can lead to significant legal implications, including personal liability for distributing assets incorrectly. You may be held accountable for any financial loss suffered by a missing beneficiary due to an incorrect distribution.

When do you need to locate beneficiaries?

You need to make reasonable efforts to locate all beneficiaries as soon as possible. This is so that they can be informed of the terms of the will and who is dealing with the estate administration. If no attempts to locate beneficiaries are made at the outset, it may leave insufficient time to locate them when the estate should ordinarily be finalised.

How can you locate a missing beneficiary?

If no response to any initial communications is received, more thorough attempts to locate the beneficiary need to begin.

Some of the options open to you include the following:

Search public records: electoral registers, birth, marriage and death records can provide valuable information as to what may have happened to the missing beneficiary.

Using professional tracing services: these services specialise in locating missing people and can be highly effective. This is particularly useful in intestacies, and genealogy companies have many resources at their disposal to find beneficiaries.

Finalising an estate when a beneficiary is unable to be located

If, despite all exhaustive attempts to find them, a beneficiary still cannot be found, sound legal advice will ensure that you take all reasonable steps to find a missing beneficiary and can safeguard your personal liability for any financial loss caused by an inaccurate distribution.

Some of the options open to you at this stage include the following:

Holding funds: you can set aside the entitlement for the missing beneficiary in an executors’ account. If the beneficiary is then located in the future, they can claim their inheritance.

Paying other beneficiaries: alternatively, you can distribute the amount due to the missing beneficiary to the other beneficiaries, subject to a legally binding commitment that if the missing beneficiary emerges later, the other beneficiaries will repay the amount.

Missing beneficiary insurance: this is a type of insurance which provides coverage for you if a missing beneficiary comes forward after the estate has been distributed.

The court: for maximum protection, you can seek court intervention. The court may issue what is called a ‘Benjamin Order’ which allows you to distribute the estate on the assumption that the missing beneficiary has died.

How can we help?

It is important to remember that each case is unique, and legal advice should be sought to determine the best course of action.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.

Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.

Consulting the will file: if a separate firm prepared the will of the person who died, consider asking for a copy of the will instructions given to the solicitor to see if the person may have left any contact details for the beneficiary.

Social media: it may be appropriate to look for the beneficiary via social media accounts, such as Facebook or LinkedIn, so that you can pursue other methods of contact.

Our private client solicitors offer comprehensive support including sound legal advice to ensure you fulfil your fiduciary duties and avoid personal liability. By engaging our services, you can confidently fulfil your role as an executor, knowing you have taken all reasonable steps to locate and provide for all beneficiaries of the estate.

For further information, please contact Susan Owens on 01604 622101 or email susan.owens@bmtclaw.co.uk

Susan Owens Senior Partner

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

Enjoy a worry-free and active retirement at the Hawthorns, where community living is at our heart.

The Hawthorns’ Well-being Co-ordinators provide a daily programme of stimulating and engaging activities, social events, trips out, exercise classes and interest clubs to keep your mind and body active and support you in staying healthy.

Studio, 1-bed or 2-bed apartments available for single occupancy or couples.

Let your skin drink it in!

It’s time to face up to dull, dreary and damaged skin, and swap the woesome for the wowsome. Let’s plump and invigorate – and don’t forget the H20!

ZO Skin Health has just launched its Soothing Hydro Mist to restore hydration, calm visible redness and support the skin’s natural protective barrier.

Apply morning and evening to harness the maximum benefits, and reach and spray throughout the day as required. The perfect pick me up when you need a little invigoration – and the plant-derived polysaccharide complex infuses hydration for up to 48 hours after just one application. Spray your way to a healthy skin day.

Get it: zo-skinhealth.co.uk

RRP: £64.80

For more than 40 years Spanish brand Sensilis has been supporting sensitive and sensitised skin in its country of origin, and it is used by aesthetic dermatologists and doctors in more than 25 countries. Now it has spread its beauty wings into the UK market, and is newly available here. A reason to be cheerful.

With the sun reappearing it is more important than ever to take measures to protect yourselves, and Photocorrection 50+ is here for the job. A depigmenting and blurring mousse, it will protect against UVA, UBA and blue light, while also repairing sensitive conditions.

Tricky epidermis? It’s sensible to reach for Sensilis.

Get it:

RRP:

Enjoy the benefits of a luxurious sheet mask prevent skin ageing and stimulates collagen production – and elasticity is only ever a good thing!

Firmer, fresher looking skin is just minutes away, and this is a great follow-up product to use after microneedling. Trust in Dermaroller, the masters of this stuff. They are packaged individually making them ideal travelling companions too.

Enjoy a little ‘me’ time and let your skin shine.

Get it: dermaroller-uk.com

When considering facial care, lips can often go unchecked, but Hydropeptide has a renewing treatment with a potent blend of elasticity-enhancing and skinplumping ingredients to deliver younger-looking, visibly fuller lips. This treatment kisses the lips that do the kissing, if you see what we mean. Embrace the power of the Polypeptide Collagen+ lip mask

Get it: hydropeptide.co.uk

RRP: £48 (pack of eight)

There are many aggressors capable of causing dark spots; sun exposure, ageing, pollution and genetics are all guilty of delivering these melanin malfunctions.

Sensilis’ Skin D-Pigment Serum helping to reduce and prevent the appearance of these visible irritations.

Get it: sensilis.co.uk

RRP: £47

Neutrogena® has teamed up with actress and self-confessed skincare fanatic Nicola Coughlan, who brings plenty of drama to the screen. But away from work? She is all about drama-free skincare. Her favourite secret? Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel is supercharged with Hyaluronic Acid, bringing supple dewy skin with ease. If you want to make a splash with your skin care, Neutrogena the way. For normal and combination skin, each jar boasts 600 hours of hydration. Go on, glow for it!

Get it: Boots stores at centre:mk in Milton Keynes and the Grosvenor Centre in Northampton, or online at boots.com

RRP: £13.99

A chance to enjoy the best that Northamptonshire

Lamport Hall is delighted to launch a new event for the 2025 season. Inspired by the incredible makers, artisans and designers across the county and surrounding areas, we will be hosting a Makers Market and Food Festival on Saturday 10th May, 10am-5pm.

There will be over 80 handpicked and carefully curated stalls selling a wide array of products including crackling wood wick candles, fused glass, keepsake boxes, propagation stations, tealights, handmade soap, wood turned items, original artwork, limited edition fine art prints, handmade willow crafts, family portrait experiences, wax melts, felt home décor, handmade fudge, ethical clothing, padded noticeboards, handcrafted jewellery, wheel thrown pottery, gin, brownies, cooking sauces, cocktail kits, pick n mix, craft ciders, handmade pies, luxury handmade chocolates, blondies, cakes, needle felted art, and much, much more!

There will also be street food on offer from the brilliant Brooklyn Brownie Co selling brownies, sundaes, cheesecake and slushies’, as well as Famous Spyros serving Greek Souvlaki gyros wraps, Greek salads and loaded fries and The Grumpy German selling Bratwurst, Currywurst, Frankfurters and homemade German cakes, cookies and savoury bakes.

There will be musical entertainment throughout the day from Pat James and Monique (who you might just recognise from The Voice!) so why not grab a drink and a bite to eat whilst soaking up the atmosphere?

Ami Becker Art will be painting live, showing her incredible talent for creating colourful, lively and inspiring abstract original art. Jack Astbury will also be demonstrating how to

create woodwork pieces, encouraging younger visitors to have a go at using traditional woodworking tools.

For smaller visitors (and grownups who fancy a try too!) there will be a free have-a-go circus workshop at 11:30am-12:30pm and 1:30pm-2:30pm.

Perhaps you might like a lasting memento of your day out or a rare photo as a family or group of friends? There will be a free to use photobooth on site so strike a pose and grab a snap.

Our lovely café selling locally sourced cakes, sausage rolls and artisan coffee will also be open, with cold beers and wine also available. And don’t miss our little gift shop where we will be selling cards, gifts and souvenirs.

The event is £5 for adults and free for under 16s with dogs on leads welcome and free parking.

> Visit www.lamporthall.co.uk

Ami Becker Art

Jack Astbury

By Cindy LGH

Veiled Visions

While sheer excitement for Summer is mounting, Spring’s romance remainswith a light, feminine and fantastical mood set to stay lingering in wardrobes for next season.

Think airy looks in pretty pastels; dreamy draping, light tulle layers, and longline silhouettes.

Designers sent a haunting of ethereal looks down the ramp, with models looking like romantic ghosts. There were see-through macs at Dolce & Gabbana and Hervé Léger; translucent gowns at Jason Wu and Simon Rocha. At Tom Ford, a show stopping pleated maxi dress floated down the runway in rust. At Bora Aksu, there were baby blue frilled capes. But best was Dries Van Noten’s fine layer of pastel tulle—a tunic thrown over a blazer—like a delicate invisibility cloak in reverse, worn to reveal the feminine side of a bold lapelled workwear jacket and long tomboyish shorts. Drift into H&M for a smart, semi-sheer blazer and trouser set; see Zara for floaty cami dresses to wear over trousers, and sheerpanelled shirts; or go full on girly ghost in Mango’s baby pink, floor-length cape. If you wear yours layered over anything textured or embellished, you’ll be the most stylish apparition in town.

Zara £45.99

Mango

Mango £49.99

John

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Butterflied chicken fillets with lime and paprika rub

METHOD

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 10-20 minutes

Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS

4 Waitrose British Chicken Breast Fillets

2 tsp coriander seeds

2 large garlic cloves

Zest and juice of 2 limes

2 tsp smoked paprika

Half of a 145g bag Waitrose Watercress, Rocket and Spinach Salad

200g tub Waitrose Fresh Dip

Vine Ripened Tomato Salsa

1. Make sure your barbecue is really hot. Slice through the centre of each chicken breast horizontally but don’t quite cut them in half. Open the fillets out so they lie flat.

2. Using a pestle and mortar, crush the coriander seeds roughly. Add the garlic cloves and lime zest, then pound to make a coarse paste. Add the lime juice and the paprika, then season and mix again until well blended.

3. Rub the mixture into the chicken breasts and leave to marinate for 5 minutes.

4. Cook the butterflied chicken breasts on the barbecue for 5-10 minutes on each side or until cooked through and lightly charred. Alternatively, cook under a grill, set to high. Serve with the salad and salsa.

COOK’S TIP

The marinade contains lime juice, which tenderizes the meat – but don’t leave it for more than the 5 minutes or the chicken may fall apart as you cook it. When preparing a barbecue make sure the coals are glowing red under a thin layer of grey ash before cooking. For more barbecue tips go to waitrose.com/bbq

DIGGING DEEP

Go ‘potty’ with your summer planting

We all know the importance of a glorious outside space; for us, and for our embattled wildlife.

But at a time when finances are being hammered left, right and centre, maintaining our gardens can put another terrific dent into the bank balance.

To counteract that, we’ve got some ‘Gardening on a budget’ ideas for you this month, and actually, the majority of these don’t need to cost you anything at all - apart from time.

Populating your space with plants, shrubs and flowers can be costly, but if you join a gardening group, or connect with like minded folks from your neighbourhood, seed shares and cutting swaps can ensure everyone has a garden rich in variety.

What about planters to pop them in? The price points for those can be eye-watering, but with a little creativity, gardens can be spruced up and given their own truly unique twist... Are your wellies or walking boots looking woeful? Before you add to landfill issues, consider planting up those sole-d out boots with seeds or young plants, which make for an attractive, quirky focal point.

If the kids have boots that are ready for replacement, this is also a great way to inject new life into their footwear and cultivate their love of growing things. A win-win.

What to do with old pots and pans? Fill with a good multipurpose compost and use them to plant herbs – they look fabulous and you’ll never need to purchase your basil and mint from the supermarket again. Remember though, mint will grow and grow, so plant it separate and with plenty of space.

For even less work, place large pots directly into the drawers instead of planting. Sturdy trailing plants and flowers (wave petunias being an excellent example) will look fab seated atop the units.

Alternatively, remove the drawers and arrange them on top of one another at odd angles from the ground up.

Remember, no matter what you are recycling (or should that be green-cycling?) you’ll need to ensure adequate drainage.

Once you let your creativity loose, the list of household items that can be reworked is endless; tin cans can make for pops of cool colour that turn a bland wall into a feature with minimum effort.

That cracked watering can, those chipped cups and saucers, faded and stained coffee mugs, and old teapots and tired coffee makers that haven’t been used since the Spice Girls were a thing, can all be given new life. Colanders can work brilliantly well too, and there’s no need to add in drainage with those!

Perhaps you can turn an old wood pile or broken unit earmarked for the tip into a cool bird feeding station which will give you endless hours of free entertainment. Watching - and getting to know - your local bird life is one of life’s little pleasures.

That old chest of drawers you’ve earmarked for the refuse centre is another pretty way to cultivate a herb garden.

You’ll need to line the drawers and you might like to use paint (non-toxic exterior paint) to add a splash of colour to your unit.

The only limits here are your imagination, and to make sure that everything you use is environmentally safe.

If you don’t have anything to repurpose, a trip to your local charity shops will reward you with fresh possibilities; you’ll get to cheer your garden up for less, and the charity purse will be helped along the way.

If you’ve given new life to an old household item, we’d love to see photos of your efforts.

> Send pictures of your green-fingered creativity to freelancesammy@googlemail.com

How does your garden grow?

It’s the most popular month for most of us gardeners and one of the busiest, even though, as Shakespeare points out “Rough winds to shake the darling buds of May”.

Weed through the flower and vegetable beds with a kitchen knife or pointed trowel to cut through the tap roots of perennial weeds before they are covered over by the foliage of the border plants.

I sow two rows of wallflowers on my allotment later in the month. They are biennials and so, when I transplant them into the front border of the house in October, they flower profusely throughout the winter. I sow foxgloves and honesty at the same time, to be planted in the perennial border.

Deadhead the spent tulips, leaving the stalks and leaves to die down, replenishing the bulb.

We are earthing up the early potatoes, now the shoots are over 20cm tall.

The early sown lettuces in the greenhouse should be ready for harvesting, as are the first outdoor ones.

Radishes, beetroots, carrots and parsnips, as well as peas and French beans, may be sown early this month.

Plant outdoor varieties of tomato plants with supporting canes. Plant them deeply and water them well. Choose a calm day if possible, as the leaves lose water very quickly at first.

Sweetcorn should be planted out in blocks, or squares, as they are wind pollinated.

It’s a good time to push a layer of straw under strawberry leaves, to keep the fruit off the soil.

The lawn will have been mown by now, so, after the third pass, either lower the setting of the blades to keep a trim lawn, or leave high if you are not averse to a few wild flowers in your lawn.

Make the most of this marvellous month!

Ralph Westmoreland

Denton & District Gardening Club member

Denton & District Gardening Club is a small, friendly club which meets on a Monday evening every month. New members and visitors are always welcome.

For more information please contact: m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk or 01604 890875

Wallflower

Coastal Rattan Ceiling Pendant Light, £149 limelace.co.uk

Crab Bowl, £34.95 annabeljames.co.uk

The Shoreline Waves Outdoor Cushion, £19 theoutdooredit.co.uk

Natural Knotted Rope Table Lamp with White Cotton Slub Tapered Shade £119 clickstyle.co.uk

Large Navy Beni Bag, £39 braided-rug.co.uk

Summer Hamptons in the

Hydrangea Macrophylla, £14.99 dobbies.com

Ian Mankin Coastal Inspired Living Room in Blues and White Fabrics

Large Ammonite Sculpture, £39 marquisanddawe.co.uk

There’s something magical about a Hamptons summer, isn’t there? That salty breeze off the Atlantic, the soft crunch of sand beneath your feet, and homes that somehow nail the balance between pulled-together and totally laid-back. That’s the vibe this look is all about.

“Summer in the Hamptons” draws straight from that East Coast charm—refined but relaxed, stylish but never trying too hard. Picture this: sun-drenched rooms filled with crisp white linens, gently worn wood finishes, and just a hint of nautical flair (think stripes, ropes, and the odd seaglass trinket). The colour palette? A dreamy blend of seafoam blues, chalky whites, and those sun-faded neutrals that look like they’ve been kissed by the ocean.

It’s coastal living, but with polish. Clean lines meet comfy textures, and every detail feels considered without ever tipping into fussy. If you’re getting flashbacks to a Nancy Meyers film—yes, that’s exactly the point. Those airy kitchens and sprawling porches? Pure Hamptons gold.

From rattan armchairs to linen throws, striped deckchairs to beautifully styled tablescapes, this is about chasing that endless summer. And luckily, you don’t need a beach house in Sag Harbor to get the look. Just a few thoughtful touches, and you’re halfway there.

Ready to bring that barefoot elegance home?

Coastal Boats Stoneware Mug, £16 sophieallport.co.uk

Floral Purple & Yellow Spring Wreath, £38 dibor.co.uk

Lilac & Lemon

The

Colour Crush You Didn’t Know You Needed

Atelier Art No2 Poster, £8.95 desenio.com

Elmwood Cushion, £50 coxandcox.co.uk

Card Candle ShadeSwedish Stripes, £15 nicholasengert.co.uk

File this under “unexpected but totally perfect”: lilac and lemon. One’s soft and powdery, the other’s zesty and bright—and together? Magic.

This season’s most uplifting colour duo is all about balance. Lilac brings that gentle, dreamy calm (like lavender fields at golden hour), while lemon slices through with a burst of sunshine and optimism. It’s soft-meets-sunny in the best possible way—equal parts soothing and energising, like a deep breath followed by a good laugh.

The beauty of this pairing is in the contrast. Lilac tones feel graceful and grown-up, with a chalky elegance that’s quietly chic. Lemon, on the other hand, is pure joy—fresh, playful, and full of personality. Put them together and you get a colour story that’s delicate yet dynamic, sweet with a bit of spark. Like sorbet for the soul.

You’ll spot these shades popping up everywhere—from sculptural ceramics that double as art pieces, to tinted glassware that catches the light just right. Think statement armchairs, whimsical vases, and tablescapes that feel like they belong at the world’s happiest brunch.

So if your space could use a little lift (and honestly, whose doesn’t?), this might just be your new favourite palette. Go on—try a splash of lemon with a hint of lilac. It’s the interior equivalent of a pick-me-up.

Lilac Glass Bud Vase, £6 talkingtables. co.uk

William Kilburn Cup and Saucer Set, £15 thewisteriatree. co.uk

Artisan Tilt Head Stand Mixer, Colour Of The Year 2025 Butter, £699 kitchenaid.co.uk

Lavender & Yellow Bread Basket, £22 thebasketroom.com

The allure of Alabaster

In the world of interior design, some colours come and go like fashion trends. Others, however, possess an enduring charm that transcends styles, seasons, and spaces. One such hue is Alabaster. Often described as a soft, warm white with subtle undertones of beige or ivory, Alabaster has quietly secured its place as a go-to shade for designers, stylists, and homeowners alike. It offers the clean serenity of white without the clinical coolness, bringing a welcoming glow that feels both modern and classic.

Technically, Alabaster is a naturally occurring mineral used in sculpture and decorative arts for centuries and latterly to make some beautiful ranges of lighting – have a look at CTO Lighting, Tiger Moth, Heathfield and Andrew Martin, to name a few. But in the design world, Alabaster the colour refers to a creamy off-white tone somewhere between stark white and taupe. Named Colour of the Year in 2016, it’s versatile, soothing and reflects light beautifully without feeling stark.

Colours influence emotion, and Alabaster is no exception. It evokes feelings of calm, cleanliness, and understated luxury. It can provide a comforting backdrop in fastpaced lives—neutral enough to fade into the background, but warm enough to make a space feel lived-in and loved. Where cool whites can sometimes feel aloof or sterile, Alabaster brings in a gentle warmth, making it ideal for cosy homes, minimalist lofts, or traditional townhouses alike.

www.originalstyle.com

If you’re keen to harness the power of Alabaster in different rooms and styles, paint an entire room in Alabaster and you’ll see its magic. You’ll produce walls that whisper, rather than shout, creating a serene cocoon that reflects natural light like a dream. It’s perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and even hallways, where you want continuity without being boring. Pair Alabaster with a crisp white trim for gentle contrast and architectural definition.

In bedrooms, Alabaster acts as the ideal neutral canvas for layered textures: linen throws, beautifully draped curtains, cotton sheets, rattan accents, and natural wood tones. The result? A calm, earthy retreat that encourages rest and mindfulness.

Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262 www.millsandkinsella.com

On kitchen cabinets strike that perfect balance between fresh and inviting by pairing Alabaster tones with brass or matte black hardware, marble countertops, and warm wood floors.

In bathrooms, Alabaster walls reflect light without the sterile feel of standard white, making even small downstair toilets feel open and spa-like.

Alabaster partners nicely within almost any palette. Use earth tones (terracotta, olive green, ochre) for a grounded, boho vibe. Blues and greys are good for a cool coastal or Scandinavian look. Charcoals and blacks give high contrast and add modern drama, or for romantic softness combine Alabaster with blush pink or dusty rose. www.tileflair.co.uk

Because Alabaster is subtle, it thrives in spaces rich with texture: think woven throws, boucle furniture, handcrafted ceramics, and matt finishes. It lets these elements shine without overpowering them.

In a modern farmhouse scheme, Alabaster can be the staple on tongue and groove walls, offering a warm look without clashing with rustic wood beams or metal fittings. In minimalist designs, its softness keeps an uncluttered space from feeling too empty.

Paired with crown mouldings, antique frames, and classic textiles, Alabaster enhances the grace of traditional design, and in Japandi schemes, the calm and organic quality of Alabaster emphasises imperfections and provides tranquility.

Alabaster is not just a colour, it’s a mood, a philosophy, and a design strategy all rolled into one. Whether you’re updating a single wall or planning a whole home redesign, this soft, luminous, neutral offers both flexibility and finesse. In an age where overstimulation is the norm, Alabaster invites us to slow down, simplify, and surround ourselves with quiet beauty. Looking to go Alabaster? Whether you’re DIY-ing a paint job or working with a designer, this timeless shade might just be the calm your space is craving.

www.nedgis.com

Where bronze comes alive:

A behind-the-scenes foundry experience

Here at the gallery, we present and enjoy many finished masterpieces – artworks that have been planned, developed, and created over time. But, like many of our visitors, we love to hear the stories behind these pieces – the journeys that take place behind the scenes.

Our gallery team recently had the opportunity to witness this transformative process first-hand, visiting the Sculpture Castings foundry, where some of our most popular bronze sculptures begin their journey. We learnt about the intricate process of creating these exceptional pieces and met the talented individuals who breathe life into metal. It was an inspiring experience. Using the traditional ‘lost wax process’, the artists begin with wax modelling clay, crafting their vision with meticulous attention to detail. This initial sculpture then becomes the template for a silicone mould, which is coated with terracotta and fired in a kiln. When molten bronze is poured in, the wax melts away – giving the technique its name.

transforms cold metal into vibrant art. Patination is the process of applying acids and oxides, then precisely heating them to give each sculpture its unique colour and texture – bringing the piece to life. To complete the work, wax layers are added, enhancing the colours and creating truly oneof-a-kind artworks, each limited to just 25 editions.

The foundry also produces the work of Adam Binder, whose sculptures have quickly become gallery favourites. Whether capturing the grace of an otter, the poise of a leopard, or the playfulness of a polar bear, Binder has an extraordinary ability to convey the essence of his subjects.

This was a remarkable opportunity for us to learn more about the craftsmanship behind each of these pieces. Seeing them take shape in the foundry has undoubtedly deepened our appreciation for the artistry involved.

During the visit, we met sculptor Adam Paddon, who is also the gallery’s Head Patinator. It’s this artistic touch that

Natalie Trembecki Gallery Correspondent

www.therosegallery.co.uk

Film Reviews

WARFARE

FILM OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4.5 /5

Alex Garland, king of brainy genre subversion (Ex Machina, Annihilation), teams up with former Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza for Warfare, and the result is less “war movie” and more “nerve-shredding immersion therapy.” This isn’t your typical flag-waving, gun-blazing cinematic romp—it’s a tightly wound pressure cooker, soaked in dust, adrenaline, and dread. Set in 2006 Ramadi, Iraq, the film follows a Navy SEAL team through the chaos of an operation gone sideways. But don’t expect explanatory monologues or melodramatic flashbacks—Garland and Mendoza toss you into the firefight like a GoProwielding ghost.

The cast is superbly understated. D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai gives a quietly devastating performance, while Will Poulter and Cosmo Jarvis lean hard into the weariness and camaraderie of soldiers on the edge. Their chemistry isn’t showy, but it rings painfully true—brotherhood built on trauma, not banter.

Christopher Landon’s Drop is a strippeddown techno-thriller that locks its audience inside a trendy Chicago eatery and dares them to breathe. Meghann Fahy stars as Violet, a widow out on a hopeful date, only to be haunted by messages from a proximity-based app. Suspicious pings lead to paranoia, suspicion, and eventual chaos. It’s Black Mirror meets Unfriended, but classier. The tight runtime and onelocation setup keep the tension simmering, though some twists feel algorithmically generated. Still, Fahy grounds the madness with a measured performance. It’s lowbudget, high-concept, and surprisingly effective—just don’t check your phone during the screening, or you’ll lose your nerve. ✪

The real star, however, is the film’s ruthless commitment to realism. There’s no score. None. Just the hum of faulty comms, the crackle of gunfire, and the muffled chaos of urban combat. You feel the disorientation in your bones. Visually, it’s all washed-out palettes and claustrophobic framing, like The Hurt Locker on a grimmer day, and that’s saying something. There’s no cinematic polish, just gritty authenticity and the creeping dread that no one’s making it out clean. The camera rarely blinks. It doesn’t moralise either, content to let us stew in the moral murk. The result is as hypnotic as it is harrowing. This is not cinema designed for comfort. It’s a slow, burning descent into the moral fog of modern warfare. Garland resists neat conclusions and Mendoza ensures it never drifts into fantasy. Warfare is relentless, raw, and quietly radical—a war film that refuses to glorify, explain, or justify. Instead, it leaves you rattled, questioning, and oddly grateful for the silence when it ends. ✪

THE PENGUIN LESSONS

Star Rating: 3.5/5

Peter Cattaneo’s The Penguin Lessons adapts Tom Michell’s memoir into a heartwarming tale of unexpected companionship and quiet self-discovery. Set in 1976 Argentina, Steve Coogan plays Tom, an English teacher who rescues a stranded penguin named Juan Salvador. Naturally, the penguin is more emotionally intelligent than half the faculty. Their bond becomes a charming if slightly saccharine symbol of healing, all against the backdrop of political unrest the film mostly tiptoes around. While the script skirts deeper themes, Coogan brings subtlety and dry wit. It’s formulaic, sure, but sincere—like a cup of warm cocoa in cinematic form. Feather-light, but comforting nonetheless. ✪

THE AMATEUR

Star Rating: 3/5

Star Rating: 3.5/5 For more reviews visit www.nnpulse.co.uk

Rami Malek stars as CIA codebreaker

Charles Heller, suddenly yanked into field duty after his wife is killed in a brutal terrorist bombing. Predictably, the CIA bureaucracy is more obstructive than helpful, so Heller goes rogue with righteous rage and shaky instincts. Malek’s brooding intensity is tailor-made for a character unraveling under pressure, but always three steps from a panic attack. Director James Hawes builds a stylish, shadowy thriller juggling conspiracy, revenge, and existential dread—though not always gracefully. The action pops, the plot occasionally flounders. It’s no Bourne, and it’s certainly no Tinker Tailor, but it keeps you hooked—just don’t expect it to crack the spy thriller code entirely ✪

Star Rating: 2.5/5

Directed Jared Hess takes on the sandbox behemoth with A Minecraft Movie, a zany blend of pixelated nostalgia and chaotic comedy. Jack Black leads as Steve, and yes, he goes full Jack Black—loud, loveable, and occasionally unhinged. The film’s partlive-action, part-CGI approach looks like School of Rock crashed into a YouTube speedrun, but weirdly, it works. The plot is wafer-thin—some nonsense about saving the Overworld—but the energy rarely dips. Hess knows his audience: kids, streamers, and exhausted parents seeking peace for 100 minutes. It’s silly and scatterbrained, but surprisingly self-aware. Honestly, it’s more fun than it has any right to be. ✪

Hey Ho! Let's Go!

Sunday night is usually reserved for episodes of The Antiques Roadshow and digging hard to find motivation for the upcoming week. Surely it’s not only us?!

But Sunday, May 4 offers a welcome break from the sedate routine – it’s a bank holiday weekend, which means no work on Monday for many of you. If only SBD Promotions had gone and booked a raucous troupe of girls to do justice to the sublime catalogue of material left by The Ramones...

Oh wait, they have!

The Ramonas pay mighty fine tribute to Joey, Johnny, Dee Dee and Tommy, and embody that 70s spirit of the ultimate garage punkers.

The girls have staying power too – they’ve been smashing out those tremendous tracks like Blitzkrieg Bop, Pet Sematary, I Wanna Be Sedated and Sheena Is a Punk Rocker for two decades.

A ‘high energy, full throttle one hour’ show is the promise, and the band will be well-oiled when they arrive at The Black Prince – fresh back from dates in Germany and Spain.

Not ‘just’ a covers mob, for nigh on a decade the band has been delivering its own self-penned material, with albums and Eps available to tip your ears to.

Support at the bash is coming from The Vandervalls and Scarper

Grab a ticket and go have all of the Sunday fun with none of the Monday glum!

Pop-punk players Who Saves The Hero? (May 9) are dab hands at delivering cool tunes, and in the past they’ve even hopped aboard the Vans Warped tour.

WSTH? will be joined by Wishing Wolf, Bio-Exile and Shooting At Fires

Class of ’79 also do that tribute thing, taking you back to an era when punk and new wave ruled the airwaves. Members of UK Subs, The Selector, The Godfathers,

Eddie and the Hot Rods, Department S and The Rezillos will be on the stage, playing tracks from their own bands and a scattering of punk and new wave classics.

To get you all loosened up for the main event, welcome 21st century space-punk blues from intergalactic music specialists The Aliens.

Man about town, Alex Novak is also showing out, or rather playing out, as the event DJ.

American singer-songwriter Dekker (May 17) issued his third longplayer last year, and Future Ghosts managed to sound both familiar and fresh.

Dekker settled into life on this side of the pond back in 2010, and resides in Nottingham, so not too long a journey home after he has wowed the ‘fampton crowd with his indie-folk leanings, which arrive with added falsetto and nylon string guitar.

Up in support, Leipzig-based indie-folkers Almost Twins’ singer and guitarist Max Grüner will perform songs from his bands’ current album Hands/Trees in an intimate solo setting.

After a triumphant show at the venue last June, High Fade (May 21) are back, and this is a midweek treat of a show.

Delivering the very best in sharp fun and disco, the Edinburgh-based three piece are simply next level players, and feelgood? And the rest!

“High Fade doesn’t work unless there’s a crowd, a dance floor and people that want to get down,” the band says.

There’s no worries on that score. The Black Prince will be buzzing.

Jack Black, Rage Against the Machine’s Brad Wilk, Cypress Hill and Glenn Hughes

have all been dazzled, and if you grab a ticket to this date (before it sells out) you can join their club.

The debut album from the Scottish boys, Life’s Too Fast, is out now and they are promising a show which ‘supersedes anything their fans have experienced before.’

It’ll be a hot one on and off the stage.

> For all your SBD needs, tappety-tap to sbdpromotions.com

Oi! Oi! It's The Ramonas – May 4

Who Saves The Hero? play on May 9 Dekker – Hatt’ll do nicely!

High Fade – High energy, high quality

Southern Californian blues rockers

Robert Jon & The Wreck will be live at The Roadmender this month. If you want to join them in ‘a celebration of change, rebirth, and the relentless spirit of rock n roll,’ grab that plastic pal and book your spot promptly –tickets for the date on May 9 are in demand.

Adult Dancing in the Daylight (May 10) brings the best music from the 80s, 90s and the 00s to the dancefloor, which means dance anthems, pop classics and guilty pleasures aplenty, for those aged 25 and over.

‘Our charismatic host will keep the energy high and the vibes just right,’ promise organisers, ‘Gather your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to party like it’s 1999!’ from 2pm.

The Taylor themed club night Swiftogeddon is doing big business far and wide, and it’s back at The Roadmender (May 23) promising more deep cuts, extended mixes, fan faves and those blockbusting hits. Over 18s only.

A tribute night for the goth generation follows (May 24) with The Cureheads leading the musical charge. Together for nearly 35 years (that’s some commitment), these guys go all in to do The Cure thing; recreating the look, sound and atmosphere made famous by Robert Smith’s mob.

When it comes to hits, The Cure have delivered them in abundance; Love Cats, Just Like Heaven, A Forest, Close To Me, Boys Don’t Cry, Pictures of You, so naturally The Cureheads will do all of that, and more.

Joining them for the bash will be Siouxsie & The Budgiees, playing tribute to the inimitable Siouxsie Sioux and Co., from Happy House to Hong Kong Garden

The Cureheads frontman has been known to join them in play on occasion, giving a nod to the period that Robert Smith spent in the Banshees as guitarist. Will they team up for the ’Mender date?

As Harry Hill (who has nowt to do with this whatsoever) would say, ‘there’s only one way to find out...’

You really wanna GoGo to this, too! Moving Swiftly on

The Black Prince will also be getting rhythmic with six-legged all-female bedrock n rollers CaveGirl & The Neandergals (who have just won our ‘band name of the month award’) on Friday, May 16.

The girls pull together rockabilly, psychobilly and blues with barbaric beats thumping, and a bubbling stew of influences bringing people aplenty to their party.

The cool double bill also features ’fampton duo Gogo Loco and their maraca shakin’, rattle ‘n’ roll.

A dalliance of Bo Diddley beats and garage rock guitar leads to catchy tunes, silly lyrics (their words, not ours) and a high energy stage delivery.

Their GoGo Loco Daddy delivery – which was cut loose in March – is catchier than the lurgy that took us down recently. And it's a whole load more pleasant!

There won’t be too many bills countrywide that promise bedrock n roll and maraca shakin' rattle ‘n’ roll on the same night. Make the most of it.

Tickets are £10 in advance, £15 on the door – head to Skiddle.

Last up at the Lady’s Lane venue this month is the return of the Kickin It Country brand (May 31).

If you’ve attended one of these bashes previously, then you’ll know all about the DJs who drop the best in country anthems from artists including Dolly Parton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Johnny Cash, Billy Ray Cyrus, Rascal Flatts and plenty more.

These events also boast a massive cowboy hat giveaway, country décor, and confetti showers.

Go polish your best cowboy boots, don the stetson, practice your yee-haw’s and steady yourselves for a fab night of fun.

> Tickets are running low for some of these dates, so get a wriggle on and head to theroadmender.com to get your choices bagged up.

Expect lullabies and love songs with The Cureheads

Bedrock n rollers with beats thumping – CaveGirl & The Neandergals

5 4 3 1 2

with MC Hammersmith

For those who haven’t already had the pleasure, meet MC Hammersmith, the world’s leading freestyle rapper to come from the ghetto of middleclass West London.

He’s been delivering his smart solo freestyle rap for nigh on a decade now. And it’s fab.

He’s a much in demand, multi-award winning player at comedy festivals around the world. and his clever word work has been rewarded online; his videos have racked up more than 100 million views and he has half a million followers on TikTok.

MC Hammersmith dropped his debut album, Mother’s Fettuccine at the tail end of 2023, a collection of 10 tracks including I’ve Definitely Got A Gun, I’ve Literally Got Millions of Guns and Why Does Nobody Listen? I Said I’ve Got Guns

He told Pulse Music’s Sammy Jones what makes him musically happy...

Five favourite songs and why I’m going to say these:

Big L - Ebonics (incredible writing, production is banging)

Rakim - Guess Who’s Back (incredible writing, production is banging)

Jurassic 5 - What’s Golden (incredible writing, production is banging)

Big Pun and Big L - Where You At (incredible writing, production is banging)

One Pound Fish Man - One Pound Fish (catchy, fish is cheap)

Four musical inspirations

The flow of Big Daddy Kane. The freestyle artistry of MC Juice. The jazz fusion of A Tribe Called Quest. And the affordable prices of One Pound Fish Man.

It also boasted the Post British Boy Raps In Car riot with lines including ‘rhymes so cold you’ll need double glazing’ and ‘Your girl costs you lots financially, my girl cheap because she’s imaginary’. There are lots more smile raising moments, but they aren’t polite enough for this page.

MC Hammersmith is returning to Edinburgh Fringe this year, which is great for him as he lives there, but a bit of a trek for ’fampton followers. Fret not - he’ll be live at The Underground on Saturday, May 3 with his improvised rap comedy based on your suggestions. Thinking caps on, people - give him cool stuff to work with.

> Get your weekend all ‘rapped’ up - book your space by visiting royalandderngate. co.uk and check him out at mchammersmith.com

Three subjects that get your creative juices flowing

I like to watch battle rap. I find loads of battlers really inspiring. Battlers like Tay Roc, especially, who have an endlessly creative array of gun bars. I sometimes sit and watch battle rappers verbally eviscerate each other with haymaking punchlines, and then think to myself“what’s the version of this put-down that’s true to my life?” I find that helps me make punchlines which work mechanically, but are also incredibly English and tame. That’s funny to me.

Speaking of English and tame, I also like rapping about subjects which I know lots about, but which don’t automatically lend themselves to hip hop on the surface. For practice, I regularly freestyle about National Trust properties, which is also funny to me.

The biggest subject which gets my creative juices flowing though is, of course, the One Pound Fish Man. Have a look! One pound fish!

Two biggest compliments your music/ comedy has received Somebody once tweeted me after a gig in Edinburgh and said they brought their mum to the gig, and now she won’t stop saying “motherfu**er”. My legacy! It lives on!

One reason why people should come to your show at The Underground I have a surprise support act, and yes, he will be selling merchandise* after the show! *fish

Pic: Dylan Woodley

MC Hammersmith, down in the hood... in Hammersmith

DJ Bad Apple

is music obsessed to the core

Freak Fridays has been helping music aficionados get their weekends off to a flying start at The Charles Bradlaugh since its launch back in February.

‘Wall-to-wall bangers, unapologetic anthems, and guilty pleasures,’ is the promise, with indie belters, hip-hop classics, disco grooves and 80’s new wave all ready to tickle your ears.

You might remember we told you about this new venture from Rich Byles a couple of issues ago, but we wanted to put the needle in the groove, so to speak, and get the gist on one of those at the controls.

Sylvia E. DeGray, aka Sylv, aka DJ Bad Apple, is among those bringing the tunes, and she has spent the past three years building up her live portfolio on the ‘fampton scene. Oh, and she is also working as a promoter in the town. She’s keeping busy. Sylv, a self-confessed ‘zealot DJ and disciple of goth culture’ got her footing dabbling a little at The Garibaldi Hotel, alongside DJ Seatea.

“Both our tastes in music included a varied range of musical scents and flavours, mainly introducing her frolicsome energy

for pop-punk and my eternal devotion to post-punk and the 80s,” Sylv recalled, “We played a few nights together until mid-2023, when we decided that our palates are both fascinating in their own ways, and my comrade was also busy with other hobbies.”

So Sylv stepped out on her own, learning on the job, and acting a sponge to learn from fellow deck deliverers: “...picking up tips and tricks wherever I could, and forever shall do, gaining new appreciation for the art that is mixing.”

With three years of spinability under her belt, she is currently feeling her way around different types of decks – digital and analogue, but there is a particular penchant for the latter mentioned. The reason for the preference?

“Due to its feeling of authenticity and my fervour for physical media over digital,” she told Pulse Music’s Sammy Jones, “This entails the collection of vinyls, which is one of my domineering hobbies. During a scavenge of record and charity shops, I will normally look for original pressings and special editions of post-punk, punk, rock, alternative and indie throughout the years.”

If you want to check in with DJ Bad Apple, Freak Fridays will continue weekly through to the end of May, with the possibility of an extension if the town’s music fraternity shows its support.

And those attending will hear what?

“My playlist’s rather nocturnal tones create an ironically colourful, kaleidoscopic atmosphere when paired with Rich’s funk, soul and indie firmament,” she says, “No two nights are ever the same, and that is what keeps us youthful.”

> Freak Fridays runs at The Charles Bradlaugh, 1 Earl Street, Northampton 9pm 'til late. Entry is free.

Tracks guaranteed to spill when DJ Bad Apple takes the Freak Fridays decks...

Depeche Mode –Never Let Me Down Again

A song that is very sentimental to me; it always reminds me of the amazing bonds we can have with people and how wavering they can be at times, although the real meaning of the song is much more dark.

Siouxsie and The Banshees –Arabian Knights

One by The Banshees that doesn’t get enough plays; I love how it explores the theme of environmentalism, as well as fantasy.

The Cure – The Walk

A banger by The Cure that I find is heavily overlooked amongst the much more popular, but still loved songs, such as Friday I’m In Love

Gary Numan –Are Friends Electric?

New Wave’s own pioneer of many must get a mention when I play, especially later on during a night – who doesn’t sing along?

Joy Division – Disorder

A Post-Punk classic that cannot go unplayed at a night of Gothic celebration.

#WhatsOnPulse

Refreshments in the Courtyard

Thursday, May 1, 10.30am-midday

A chance to enjoy tasty homemade cakes, a choice of specialty tea, coffee or juice and take a relaxing stroll around the Cowper & Newton Museum’s beautiful 18th century gardens.

Floral and fragrant: cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk

Tim Rice: My Life in Musicals, I Know Him So Well

Friday, May 2, 7.30pm

The multi-award-winning,internationally renowned lyricist will reflect on his illustrious career at the heart of musical theatre, sharing anecdotes behind the songs – the hits and the misses along with stories of his life and live performances from the wonderful catalogue of songs synonymous with his name.

A Whole New World: royalandderngate.co.uk

Delasole – Family Music Festival

Saturday, May 3

The start of a weekend of music and entertainment at the historic site, with headliners including Marvin Humes,The Wanted 2.0 and unrivalled dance troupe, Diversity.

Stilt walkers, fire breathers, giant bubbles, arts and crafts and much more will feature.

All in: delasolefestival.com

Delasole – 18plus Music Festival

Sunday, May 4

Enjoy live music from Judge Jules and Band, Charlie Hedges, Fish56 Octagon, Carla Monroe and our own Billy Locket on the main stage, and General Levy among those on the West Wing stage. delasolefestival.com

Wild Places

Until Sunday, May 11

From majestic hills to dramatic seas, this photographic exhibition has something for everyone and inspires the visitor to marvel in the richness of the varied habitats of the UK.

The Brittas Empire

Until Saturday, May 3

Milton Keynes Theatre of Comedy do justice to the Chris Barrie fronted comedy classic, with continuing performances at Stantonbury Campus Theatre of the BBC show that was called the Fawlty Towers of the 1990s’. Baby in a drawer: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

Guns 2 Roses

Sunday, May 4

A prime tribute to Axl, Slash, Duff and the guys who changed rock n roll. The only GnR tribute who have played live with four different members of the real deal.

Paradise City: mk11kilnfarm.com

Seven Drunken Nights:

The Story of The Dubliners

Sunday, May 4

The world’s biggest celebration of one of Ireland’s most iconic bands visits Milton Keynes with stunning performances of the group’s celebrated classics including The Irish Rover Tell Me Ma and The Town I Love So

The Ramonas

Sunday May 4, 7pm

The UKs best tribute to the iconic Ramones are back in Northampton for the first time in the three years – don’t miss them at The Black Prince. Hey Ho, Let’s Go: sbdpromotions.com

Picture You Dead

Tuesday, May 6 – Saturday, May 10

Adapted from the bestselling novel of the UK’s number one crime writer Peter James, and based on the DSI Roy Grace series which is now a major TV hit, this world-premiere is the seventh book by the author to be adapted for the stage.

Forgery: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

VE80 Day 80 – Lighting of the Beacon Thursday, May 8, 7pm-10pm

Join MK Museum when it lights its beacon to mark this special anniversary. Entertainment, cadet marches and food and drink stalls will feature. The beacon lighting will take place

Seven Drunken Nights at MK Theatre – May 4

Alain Johannes

Thursday, May 8

As talented as he is prolific, Alain has worked with QOTSA, Chris Cornell, Them Crooked Vultures, PJ Harvey, Mark Lanegan and too many others to mention. His touring band – and support act – for this stint are Edinburgh aces Earl of Hell – flick to our music section to read our interview with Alain. Hum: thecraufurdarms.com

Jacqui Dankworth

featuring The Carducci String Quartet

Thursday, May 8

Jacqui returns to the venue founded by her parents, playing in support of her new album, Windmills, a vocal tour-de-force of classic songs by Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Bernstein, Michel Legrand, Sérgio Mendes and more.

Windmills of your Mind: stables.org

Andrew Lawrence –

Still on the Naughty Step

Friday, May 9, 7.30pm-9.30pm

He has been ‘cancelled’ twice for his unflinching, uproarious political humour, and comes back stronger each time, unstoppable in the face of censorship, selling out venues wherever he goes...

Up for a giggle?: theoldsavoy.co.uk

YolanDa Brown: Bob Marley Songbook

Friday, May 9, 8pm

In celebration of what would have been Bob Marley’s 80th birthday, renowned saxophonist YolanDa Brown unveils her monumental new show, Bob Marley Songbook, with her brilliant blend of jazz, reggae and soul. Redemption Song: stables.org

History Festival

Saturday, May 10 & Sunday, May 11, 10.30am-4.30pm

Get even closer to the past with the return of the festival which spans nearly 2000 years of history in just one weekend; from the Romans to the Tudors to the Suffragettes and so much more.

Hands-on with history: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Plane Comedy

Sunday, May 11

A triple comedy headliner to see out the weekend, with Alastair Barrie, Tony Law and Darius Davies, hosted by David Alfie Ward. Find the funnies: thecraufurdarms.com

Jacqui Dankworth celebrates her new elpee with a special Stables show – May 8

Tim Rice visits The Derngate – May 2

The Twangtown Paramours

Wednesday, May 14, 8.45pm

Nashville-based award-winning husband and wife Marybeth and Mike come to town in support of their fourth elpee release, The Wind Will Change Again – their first folk album in 12 years. An intimate Stage 2 performance.

Sincerely Yours No More: stables.org

Steeleye Span

Wednesday, May 14, 8pm

Formed in 1969, with the vision of playing folk music in a contemporary, electric band format, the legendary folkers went on to change the world of folk forever. Conflict: stables.org

A Taste of Honey

Wednesday, May 14 –

Saturday, May 17, 7.30pm

Originally intended to be a novel, but turned into a play by its writer, Shelagh Delaney, A Taste of Honey comments on, and puts into question, class, race, age of sexual consent, gender, sexual orientation and illegitimacy in mid-twentieth-century Britain. The Play’s The Thing Theatre Company is behind this production. Kitchen sink drama: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

Spirit of the Blitz

Thursday, May 15, 1.30pm-4pm

Starring Andy Eastwood, Maggie O’Hara and Steve Barclay, this feel-good show recreates all your forties favourites, including Vera Lynn, George Formby, Max Miller, Arthur Askey, Anne Shelton and Gracie Fields.

Leaning On A Lamp-Post: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Music Quiz Live

Friday, May 16, 7pm

Live music meets a brain-teasing music quiz. If you know your Dave Brubeck from your Dolly Parton (and one would hope so!) this is the event for you.

Rhythm and Rivalry: mk11kilnfarm.com

Cave Girl & The Neandergals

Friday, May 16

All female bedrock n roll band comes to play The Black Prince, with support from NN’s own Gogo Loco.

Barbaric beats: theblackprincenn.com

Eurovision Final

Saturday, May 17, 7pm

Head to Kiln Farm venue MK11 for a live screening of the biggest pop party of them all. Will we win? Doubtful.

The Code: mk11kilnfarm.com

Have a laugh with Nick Mohammed – May 23

Folking great fun with Steeleye Span – May 14

Big Doggie Do

Saturday, May 17, midday-5pm & Sunday, May 18, 11am-4pm

A pawsome event at Willen Lake celebrating all things dogs. Free entry. You’d be barking to miss it: theparkstrust.com

Levison Wood

Saturday, May 17, 7.30pm

Levison visits The Royal to celebrate the human spirit and the transformative power of travel, with captivating stories from his adventures over the past 20 years, from the icy landscapes of the Himalayas to the scorching deserts of Arabia. Walking the World: royalandderngate.co.uk

NMPAT: Big Sing May

Wednesday, May 21 & Thursday, May 22 Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust presents a celebration of our singing heroes, featuring a massed primary school choir formed from schools across the Shire.

On Song: royalandderngate.co.uk

Nick Mohammed is Mr Swallow in Show Pony

Friday, May 23

Taskmaster loser Nick Mohammed returns as his critically acclaimed alter-ego Mr. Swallow with a brand new show at the Derngate. Expect magic, music and a whole load of brand new mistakes.

Finding the funnies: royalandderngate.co.uk

Guided walk around Olney – South End Saturday, May 24, 10.30am-midday

Join a guide for a walk around the south end of Olney, and learn how the town influenced a famous poet. Visit William Cowper’s dirtiest and noisiest 18th century spot and then stroll through the tranquil area around John Newton’s church of St Peter and St Paul. Drink in interesting history in secret corners. Book in advance only: events@cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk

The Young ‘Uns 20 Sunday, May 25

The much-loved Teesside trio celebrates its 20th anniversary (and their individual 40th birthdays) by heading out on tour, which includes a Wavendon date. Be The Man: stables.org

Whole Lotta Shakin’ –

The Shakin’ Stevens Story Saturday, May 31, 7.30pm

West End star Rebel Dean will guide you through an audio-visual spectacular with his live band, including rare footage and images which tell the story of the rockin’ Welsh boy and his rise to chart-topping superstardom. This ‘Ole House: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

Natural History Museum presents Dinosaurs Live! Saturday, May 31

For the first time since 1881, the home of dinosaurs, Natural History Museum, is out on tour, to give you a roaring experience like no other.

The Dinos are back!: theoldsavoy.co.uk

TALK OF THE TOWN MAY

Bands in the Park 125th Anniversary

Every Sunday & Bank Holiday Monday 2pm –5pm: Abington Park Bandstand

Enjoy live music every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday from 6th April to 29th September, with a special 125th Anniversary event on 17th May. Bring a chair or picnic blanket and soak up the sounds in beautiful Abington Park. Visit our website for the full band lineup.

Oak Apple Day and the Great Fire of Northampton 350 launch

Monday 29th May 11am – 12.35pm

All Saints’ Church Market Square

The ancient ceremony of Oak Apple Day will be celebrated with a service of thanksgiving at 11am, followed by a parade and activities. Oak Apple Day is closely linked to the Great Fire of Northampton and this year marks the 350th anniversary of the fire, with a six-month calendar of themed activities and events beginning on the 29th May. More information about the Great Fire 350 anniversary and Oak Apple Day and the trail can be found on the town council’s website: northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/greatfire350

Northampton County Beer Festival 50

Friday 30th May

Saturday 31st May 11am – 11pm Becket’s Park

Enjoy live music, festival food, craft and bottled beers galore, ales, ciders, prosecco and much more! Tickets are available now from Skiddle.com

For more details on NTC’s events and projects visit: northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/events Or get in touch with the team: events@northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk All events and projects listed are delivered, supported or sponsored by Northampton Town Council

A Dino-rous event at The Old Savoy – see May 31

Veg out with The Daft Turnip!

Pulse’s Sammy Jones takes us through marvellous May’s stage attractions in the ‘fampton...

Sometimes less is more, and a case in point is the upcoming production of Treasure Island at the Royal (May 2 & 3) which delivers Robert Louis Stevenson’s tale with just a cast of four.

The show is a version the likes of which you won’t have seen before; laced with a host of contemporary comedic twists, including an unusual motley crew of pirates, a parrot called Alexa and a mermaid you will never forget.

You have leading physical comedy company La Navet Bete (aka The Daft Turnip) to thank for this, and thank the Devon-based crew you will. It’s a family friendly show – suitable for ages seven years and up.

Sir Tim Rice has enjoyed an illustrious career and the man seated at the heart of musical theatre visits the Derngate with My Life in Musicals, I Know Him So Well (May 2) to reflect on his life in music, with anecdotes, stories and live performances of some of the many songs associated with his name.

There have been more than a few: Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, Any Dream Will Do, A Whole New World, Can You Feel The Love Tonight, Circle of Life, Chess, I Know Him So Well and One Night In Bangkok among them. MC Hammersmith (Underground, May 3) is ‘the world’s leading freestyle rapper to emerge from the ghetto of middle class West London’. That made us giggle. He’s accrued

100 million views online, but for his visit here he will be cutting loose improvised comedy raps based on your suggestions. Check our music pages for more with him.

There’s a lot more comedy heading your way this month:

Kane Brown with Don’t Listen To Me (May 9, Royal), Richard Herring’s Can I Have My Ball Back (May 10, Royal) and Ahir Shah has Ends (May 10, Underground).

Rob Beckett sticks his neck out with Giraffe (May 15, Derngate) and Shoot From The Hip bring their award-winning improvised comedy to the Royal (May 16). Unscripted, unpredictable and unforgettable is the promise for that.

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s second company, BRB2 visits the Derngate as part of its third tour with Carlos Acosta’s Ballet Celebration (Derngate, May 17) while at the Royal on the same evening, Levison Wood will delve into the philosophy of exploration, giving ticket-holders the chance to to experience the world through the eyes of one of our most intrepid adventurers.

Pig Heart Boy (May 21-24, Royal) asks, ‘Is it better to have a pig’s heart that works … than a human heart that doesn’t?’

‘Cameron is thirteen, and all he wants is to be normal – have friends, go to school, and dive to the bottom of his local swimming pool. But he desperately needs a heart transplant and time is running out. When he’s finally offered a new heart, Cameron must choose how far he’ll go to get his life back.’

Nick Mohammed is Mr Swallow in Show Pony (May 23, Dergate) and if anyone has an address for him, we’d love you to share – we’ve got a bill for botox to try to hide the laughter lines on our face that he is responsible for!

Nathan Caton (May 24, Underground) brings My Big Fat Blasian Wedding to the

stage, and the naughtiest, funniest, most revolting science show in the world, aka Rude Science (May 28, Derngate) follows. Last up, Sally-Anne Hayward (May 31, Underground) shares Egg Shortage. Sally is hitting a certain age, which means that getting sweaty in the early hours no longer means that someone else has to be there... Comedy features over at The Old Savoy too, with Andrew Lawrence (May 9) Still on the Naughty Step We might live in a ‘cancel culture’ but Andrew ain’t fussed – he’s been through that process. Twice. Both times, the man described as a ‘political provocateur’ has come back stronger, and the viral YouTube phenomenon has two decades of comedy circuit touring and plenty of awards tucked away to prove his staying power.

Spirit of the Blitz (May 15) is a chance to head back to the 40s with a tribute to stars including Vera Lynn, George Formby, Max Miller, Arthur Askey, Anne Shelton and Gracie Fields.

A sentimental journey to the time when great melodies and good clean comedy came as standard.

Last up, Dinosaurs Live! (May 31) will take you on a prehistoric journey together to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods where you’ll watch life-like dinosaurs come alive. This is the first time since 1881 that the Natural History Museum has been on tour. We reckon it’ll be pure Dino-mite!

Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum – La Navet Bete brings Treasure Island to the stage on May 2 & 3

Sally-Anne Haywood – getting sweaty with it on her lonesome – see May 31

Expect a Dino-mite delivery at

The Old Savoy on May 31

Andrew Lawrence

View from the Far Kerb Hard Facts

Most of us like to know what we are doing and what is happening. We want to know who, what, why and when. In short, we just want facts, so as to be able to plan our lives. You’d think that would be relatively simple, wouldn’t you? However, it all depends on who is telling you those facts. Their circumstances and interests are usually relevant. Very few news outlets report on things altruistically; either requiring payment or foisting ads on those who read their words. Not everything is as simple as it appears. Reports may be disingenuous twaddle and merely be the views, beliefs and opinions of the messenger.

Here is an example. A great many people visit my home to post banknotes through my letterbox. So far, the amount of money received is over a million pounds and everyone who has visited says they have experienced nothing but good luck and health since their donation to me. In addition, because I might be giving some of the money to various charities, many more people are travelling across the country to make even more donations to me. Consequently, the rate at which money is coming through my door is increasing.

Is the above true? I’d like it to be, and there is the rub (copyright, W. Shakespeare, in Hamlet, Act III, Scene 1, part of the soliloquy “To be or not to be.”). Naturally, I would like everyone to know the above so as to have people give me lots of money because they

SUDOKU PUZZLE

believe everyone else is doing the same. My reporting of such a ‘fact’ is merely me serving my own interests through making what is a spurious claim.

Today, with social media and citizen reporters, it is difficult to be sure what is a real fact; an almost fact; and a downright fabrication. My claim of money coming through my letterbox is possibly, probably or definitely, a straightforward lie, designed to benefit me rather than those who read or hear it.

Headline writers want people to read news items. They want readers to engage with what they write. Years ago, certain interests let it be known that the Common Market (as it was then known) was looking at standardising power outlets across Europe and that would mean our 3-pin plugs would become history. Added to that, all of us here in Blighty would be footing the bill to replace all the outlets in our homes and manufacturers would be passing on increases in their costs to buyers.

That was a news story put out to garner anger and dislike of the Common Market and support a movement against European integration, using outrageous misrepresentation.

There are many times when I’d like to believe what I see and hear, without having to question the original source. It would be nice to live in a world where everything was just as it is and nothing more. We all need to be thinking critically to distinguish between fluff and hard facts.

QUICK CROSSWORD

Phil O’Hara

Your stars

Flavour of the Times - After the blast of early spring energy, we start to come down to earth— sometimes with a bump (perhaps those US tariffs aren’t such a good idea after all). After Aries’ fire, Taurus is an earth sign and brings something completely different. We must ground ourselves in the real world, make proper plans, think things through, and begin the hard work of implementing them. However, there’s still plenty of fiery energy around, so we can set to work with enthusiasm. There’s also a flavour of creativity—of the growing importance of becoming more self-aware, more spiritual even—in our outlook, and this is something that will continue to develop over time.

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

Try window shopping, not necessarily literally, but browsing all kinds of options that may suit you this year. It might not be time to commit, but do stay curious—explore, sift, and welcome fresh perspectives. The old order is crumbling, yet beware: not all that glitters is gold. Marketing may spin illusions, so keep your wits tucked firmly under your hat!

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

You may be getting too hooked on digital media, but really, your curiosity is in full bloom. Searching for something real can be exhausting, so do something grounding each day. Simple is best—walk the dog, gaze at stars, potter in the garden. Reconnect with life beyond the screen. And please, just for now, turn that addictive phone off!

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

You yearn to belong to something broader than your usual circle, but fiery Aries energy leaves you rattled, confused, and—let’s be honest—a little unloved. Maybe you’re in the wrong group, but don’t let emotions steer just yet. Pause and reflect. The new moon in Gemini on the 27th will shed light—and a little cosmic clarity.

LEO

July 24 – August 23

Mars and the moon collide as the month begins, stirring fire, strong feelings, and deep inner tides. It’s all a bit dramatic—perfectly suited to you, dear Leo—but this moment may be best observed, not acted on. Ego and impulse are high, but the mood shifts fast. Enjoy the fireworks, but don’t cling to the smoke afterwards.

Your Own astrological Forecast

You are bound to be affected personally by some if not all of the massive changes that are taking place this year. Not everyone will be equally affected on a personal level but the Pluto energy will be growing stronger for Aquarians, challenging for Leos and even more so for Scorpions and Taureans.

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

Around the 7th, you may feel a wave of loneliness or like life’s simply too hard—but don’t get stuck there. This moment will pass. There’s enough positive energy in the air to help you knuckle down and shape your plans. Bring a little order to the months ahead. Virgo loves a list, after all—so get scribbling and give yourself credit where it’s due.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

Aries season’s solo energy may have rattled you, but it’s helping you rediscover your own centre. You often lose yourself in relationships, don’t you? Now’s a good time to ask: which ones uplift you and which ones don’t? Clarity awaits in that reflection—and it’ll guide you on where to pour your precious energy next. Choose yourself first this time.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

The full moon lights up your sign on 12th May, stirring fated feelings. Something may nudge you from the shadows—unexpected, random, even unnerving. But don’t dismiss it. This could be destiny dressed as chaos. Take a few brave steps forward. Deep emotions may rise, but fear is just your inner guard dog barking at the breeze.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22

May may feel slow and sloggy—ugh! Earthy Taurus vibes can tether your usual free spirit. But perhaps those shackles are mostly mental? Instead of pouting, start plotting: where would you love to escape to this year? Let your daydreams roam free. You’ll feel lighter already—and the new moon in Gemini on the 27th gives wings to your wanderlust.

An astrological reading of your birth chart can help you understand how these changes might affect you personally. To fully grasp their meaning for you, I recommend booking a comprehensive personal consultation with me. This reading is tailored specifically to you and your life, illuminating insights you may not have considered. It will help you take advantage of positive energies

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

You love steady progress, so recent shakeups may have rattled your calm. You had a path, a plan, a destination—but now the goalposts have shifted. Time to rethink, but don’t rush. So much remains uncertain that it’s wiser to wait until you’re on firmer ground before setting anything in stone. A pause now may pave the way for smarter steps ahead.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

Just do it, as they say. The fire’s lit and you’re already halfway down your new path—even if waves of doubt occasionally crash in. Don’t overthink; follow your instincts and keep going. Trust that the universe is quietly orchestrating things in your favour. The future might be a little foggy, but your inner compass is spot on. March boldly on.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

As Saturn leaves your sign with the new moon on the 27th, your introspective spell begins to lift. It’s time to apply your soul-searching wisdom to the road ahead. Ground your dreams, focus your next steps, and resist drifting back into fantasy. Reality might not sparkle quite as much—but it’s full of possibility, and you’re ready for it now.

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

With Venus and Neptune in your sign, you’re fired up—but there’s a mystical twist. Work and play are both blessed, yet Neptune nudges you to consider your spiritual path too. What’s drawing your attention now? Follow it, but tread lightly with money matters. You may be feeling bold, but the stars advise a little more caution than usual.

and avoid negative ones throughout the year. I charge £1 a minute on Zoom or Skype, and consultations usually last about an hour. You can find more information or book a session at: www.astroguidance.co.uk. Alternatively, feel free to text or WhatsApp me on 07866 727743, or email me at howpark@aol.com for further details.

We are always looking for local stories, news and events. Send your stories to: nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk For the latest local news visit: nnpulse.co.uk or scan the code.

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