NN Pulse magazine January 2024

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Issue 98 | January 2024

County-wide news, views and stories

The magazine at the heart of Northamptonshire

What’s going on in your local area

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

CONTENTS

From the

Editor

JANUARY 2024

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

C

hristmas is over for another year, but it’s good to know the Elves were busy sharing some festive cheer thanks to your support for the Northamptonshire Health Charity.

Those spending the season in hospital received special Christmas Day goody bags including toiletries, puzzles, games, sweet treats, scarves and hats.

We have a great local tradition of supporting charities and it’s good to know this work is recognised. The volunteer team at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery received a prestigious Volunteers in Museum Learning Award. It’s well-deserved appreciation for their contribution to exceptional museum learning experiences.

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Local charities, community groups and worthy volunteers were also recently in the spotlight at the Northamptonshire Community Foundation’s Annual Awards. Amongst those recognised were the Northampton Saints Foundation for the Engage programme and Steph Clayson for the Lady Juliet Townsend Award for Volunteering.

Well done to all our charity supporters.

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NEWS

10

EAT CURIOUS

We also have a great historic tradition for plots, schemes and conspiracies. You might know about our connections with the Gunpowder Plot. Laura Malpas tells the remarkable story of an Oundle man who is less well-known but quite extraordinary. You’ll enjoy finding out about William Hacket.

13

LEGAL

14

MIKE READER

16

CHARITY

18

HISTORY

26

FASHION

28

FOOD AND DRINK

30

ANIMALS IN NEED

32

PEACH FUZZ

34

DIGGING DEEP

36

INTERIORS

40

MUSIC

43

THEATRE

44

WHAT’S ON

47

PUZZLES

48

YOUR STARS

Looking ahead to this year, Delapré Abbey would like to hear your sporting stories and memories and receive your photos for a new exhibition. Although the Abbey was originally a nunnery it has a rich sporting history including Gaelic football, hurling and archery.

Previous owners, the Bouveries, were keen golfers, tennis players and horse riders. Of course, we can all still enjoy ourselves at the golf club too.

Now that all the festivities are over Sammy Jones visited Animals in Need at Irthlingborough to find out about the four-pawed friends looking for forever homes. Are you ready to welcome a new pet in your family?

Welcome to 2024 everyone!

Kerry

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

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

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NN Pulse is distributed door to door to 22,000 homes and businesses in: Ashton, Blisworth, Brafield-on-the-Green, Bugbrooke, Chapel Brampton, Church Brampton, Collingtree Park, Collingtree Village, Denton, East Hunsbury, Gayton, Grange Park, Great Houghton, Greens Norton, Hackleton, Hardingstone, Horton, Little Houghton, Lower Harlestone, Milton Malsor, Moulton, Nether Heyford, Pattishall, Piddington, Preston Deanery, Quinton, Roade, Shutlanger, St Georges Fields, Stoke Bruerne, Upper Harlestone, West Hunsbury, Wootton, Wootton Fields, and pick up points across Northamptonshire.

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

5

LOCAL NEWS

Delapré Abbey appeals for your sporting memories Delapré Abbey is inviting locals to share their sporting stories, memories, and photos for a new exhibition celebrating the Abbey’s rich sports history, set to open in 2024.

T

he Abbey, originally a nunnery established in 1145, is steeped in sporting history and to celebrate this a new temporary exhibition is being planned for 2024.

“Gaelic football and hurling were once played here, one of our fields is still known for its roots in archery, we were a popular horse riding and pony club venue and we are today still home to a golf club,” says head of engagement and interpretation Eleanor Sier. “Before the council bought the Abbey in 1949, resident families including the Bouveries were keen sports people. Miss Bouverie played tennis and golf and the whole family were keen horse people, as were the Coopers who rented the house in the early 1900s.”

The Abbey’s 2024 Sporting Exhibition will focus on 20th century history, with community stories, memories and photos at its heart.

The charity Northamptonshire sport has been based at the Abbey for two years. Chris

Northampton Archery Club in the park at Delapré in the 1950s, courtesy of Ray Wake

Holmes, chief executive at Northamptonshire Sport, added: “During that time, we have partnered with the Abbey’s team to develop exercise classes and opportunities to help people be more active,” says chief executive Chris Holmes. “It makes perfect sense for us to be here; we share the vision of a happier and healthier county and look forward to this exhibition.”

“We are appealing to local people to get in touch,” says Eleanor. “We want memories, stories, photos, letters and have a dedicated group of volunteers who will be on hand to gather these stories and these examples of valuable living history.”

Contact Eleanor with your photos, memories and stories at eleanor.sier@ delapreabbey.org or call 01604 760817.

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• Great Music • Local Bands • Entertainment • Local Events • What’s On • Great Guests • Local Voices with great music from today and the hits of yesterday

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Family Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service, Saving Family You Money.

Service, Saving You Money.

Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to replace their complete window frames, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced and/or upgraded in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glazing unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.

Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to replace their complete window frames, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced and/or upgraded in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glazing unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.

When talking to Trevor & Wendy Skidmore the owners of Cloudy2Clear Northampton & Oxford it became clear that these values have been held for over 16 years.

Since buying the local franchise in 2006 they have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community whilst introducing their 2 sons Lloyd & Ross & daughterin-law Lori into the family business along with Dan, Tom & Jo as demand for their service has grown.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community

When talking to Trevor & Wendy Skidmore the owners of Cloudy2Clear Northampton & Oxford it became clear that these values have been held for over 16 years. Since buying the local franchise in 2006 they have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community whilst introducing their 2 sons Lloyd & Ross & daughterin-law Lori into the family business along with Dan, Tom & Jo as demand for their service has grown.

through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

Ask me about our fantastic unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear Energy were able to assist our community through the last Saving For in a free quotation financial crisis 2008 dueplease to the savings that can Glass. we call 0800 61 21 118 or visitUnfortunately be made in using our service. www.cloudy2clear.co.uk.

might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

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

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Promoted by Danielle Stone on behalf of Mike Reader, both at 20 Abington Street, Northampton, NN1 2AJ. For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

7

LOCAL NEWS

Unsung heroes enjoy a night in the spotlight Six charities and community groups and two individuals have won awards for their commitment to their local communities at Northamptonshire Community Foundation’s Annual Awards.

Annual Awards winners and judges celebrating on stage. Credit: Kirsty Edmonds

U

sing the values of rugby to inspire, educate and support young people is the ethos behind the Northampton Saints Foundation. It returned 37 students to mainstream education after exclusion via its Engage programme, which has earned the organisation the Excellence in Education award from Northamptonshire Community Foundation.

The Saints Foundation was one of eight winners at NCF’s annual ceremony, as was Re:Store Northampton, which works to address poverty through community projects. It received the

8

Happy and Healthy Communities award for its project which trained 15 vulnerable adults to grow their own vegetables in a community allotment.

“Engage is such as positive programme supporting some many of our local young people to make positive change,” says Northampton Saints Foundation managing director Catherine Deans. “We could not do this without the support of funders such as those that have supported us via Northampton Community Foundation.”

Voluntary association Q Space won the Building Better Communities award for its work supporting

the LGBTQ+ community in Northamptonshire, including hosting a prom for 32 young people.

Outside in Theatre, a female-led non-profit organisation in Corby, won the Celebrating Culture and Heritage Award for its Bramble Ramble activity packs, which organised affordable family activities for 488 people throughout the summer.

The Lady Juliet Townsend Award for Volunteering winner Steph Clayson, counsellor at Northampton-based mental health charity The Lowdown, has supported the organisation for more than five years. Lucy Smith, one of the founders of Thomas’ Fund who has volunteered with children, families and young people for over 16 years, was runner-up.

The Avon Inspiration Woman Award winner, Pat Manchester, is a co-founder and trustee of the Daventry Contact charity that redistributes furniture to those in need.

“Our Annual Awards event is the highlight of our calendar because it gives us and all our generous supporters the opportunity to celebrate the unsung heroes, charities, volunteer organisations and community groups doing incredible work across the county,” says NCF chief executive Rachel McGrath.

The awards were supported by Northamptonshire businesses including Scott Bader Commonwealth, Rathbones, Tangerine Red, Wilson Browne Solicitors, Discover Northamptonshire, the University of Northampton, Bambino Mio, EMW Law and Avon.

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

9

FOOD & DRINK

Curious eating for health and wellbeing More than simply fuel and sustenance, we really enjoy our food, and sharing details of it! But too much of the wrong sort can end up on the belly, clog our arteries and leave a legacy of ill health. If only we could enjoy truly tempting food that feeds the body in all the right ways... Enter Eat Curious, a tasty new proposition for the plate. Sammy Jones tucked in...

T

he Northamptonshire-based food development company says it is ‘bringing innovation and sustainability to the plant-based food sector.’

“Our whole passion is around nutrition and health, rather than just trying to copy meat,” says Preyesh Patel, one of the three co-founders of Eat Curious.

Between them, the partners boast backgrounds in health care and renewable energy technologies. The perfect meeting of business minds.

“We were interested in the technology and the science behind vertical farming, and that’s why we started this whole project,” Preyesh explained, “We eventually partnered with a technology firm based in London to create our first vertical farm, which was a 40 ft shipping container and small hydroponic facility.”

10

Things have expanded somewhat since then, and they now have their own dedicated ‘plant playground.’

“We started to grow crops and herbs and play around with different technologies and learned how a changing environment of the crop can impact its nutritional properties.”

The initial project range of food was based on pea protein and delivered the more usual meat alternative products, namely burgers and sausages.

In 2022 the Horton based company began manufacturing and selling locally; their flavoursome foods did the business too – a pub chain and restaurants in the area swapped their usual suppliers for Eat Curious.

What sets them apart from the pack is that this brand truly has our health and wellbeing at the heart of the operation.

“The sectors that need this kind of food and ingredients are places like hospitals and places of education – they are your next generation and are really passionate about plant-based diets. The food needs to improve in those institutions, and so we work very closely with those two industries.

“We work with the business and industry sector as well – a lot of canteens and office blocks feed huge volumes of people, sometimes 1000s of people a day.

“We want to make a difference in those canteens and give those chefs tools so if they do want to go green then they can do it, they have the ingredients from us, and also our support as well.”

Eat Curious has patties and mince, protein pieces with yummy hot & spicy and BBQ glazes, and – importantly for this writer – there

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

FOOD & DRINK

is an egg alternative that makes sensational scrambles and omelettes that are on another level.

They’ve got fillets and en croutes and tenders, and more, created by their own team of food development chefs.

A bit like those breakfast cereals or tins of beans in your food cupboard, this is vegan food, but it doesn’t scream vegan at you – it shouldn’t need to.

“I believe the whole world needs to lean towards a plant-based diet for all sorts of reasons; we don’t have enough land mass and most people are interested in trying to move away from meat anyway, for animal welfare, sustainability and so on,” Preyesh believes.

“We need to create products that target everyone and make people feel comfortable moving away from meat to a predominantly plant-based diet which will have huge health and sustainability benefits.

“When you have a plant based burger you are copying the meat version, right? There’s nothing wrong with that, but I class that as vegan fast food – there will always be a demand for it, and as I mentioned, we have plant based sausages and burgers too. But the reason we have been successful is because of our other base ingredients which are not actually there to copy meat, they are there as a vehicle for texture and taste that happen to be made out of plant protein.

“We are not here to ram veganism down people’s throats,” he promises, “Our whole ethos is just to give them options and let them make the decisions. This is for everyone, not just for 5% of the population.

“I find it really frustrating when you go somewhere and you have a separate menu for vegan food,” Preyesh says, “I genuinely believe

We are not here to ram veganism down people’s throats. Our whole ethos is just to give them options and let them make the decisions.”

Eat Curious: On a mission to improve our nutrition and health

it’s not the way forward. All you have done is alienate people that may want to try it, but not try vegan food by definition.

“If you are vegan you are sold into this whole angle, but if you aren’t, you would never dream of looking at a vegan menu, but if you’ve got a menu where everything is integrated and predominantly plant-based? Then I guarantee the uptake will be much greater.”

Eat Curious is a new name on the block, but it is making huge strides, as much for those health benefits it offers as for its range of liplicking taste sensations.

“Our focus is on being a versatile ingredient that is also clean – completely allergen free

with no ultra processed elements to it, there are no chemicals in there which means it will be accessible to all.

“I think that’s what’s quite unique about what we are doing - there aren’t many products on the market like that.”

Eat Curious supplies wholesale. If you are an in-patient at Northampton General Hospital you might be given the option of Eat Curious, and where they supply, they work hand in hand with the chefs to show how their ingredients can be implemented into menus with the best results.

There they go again, going that bit further for the diner. Looking ahead, Eat Curious is already focusing on how their products can boost our nutritional intake in other ways.

“We’re looking at increasing fibre content, looking at gut microbiomes and how we can benefit that as well...there are loads of different topics and targets we have in our heads and we are doing all sorts of research.

“The core ethos is always going to be about improving nutrition and health of people, not just substituting meat,” promised Preyesh.

Eat Curious has definitely given us food for thought. > Take a bite: eat-curious.com

Plant-based for all, not the few

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

11

CRIPPS

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06/12/2023 10:42

LEGAL

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Making a Will is one of the most important things you can do…

Meaning you take control of who you leave your possessions and money to when you die.

Explore the importance of making a Will with Wilson Browne Solicitors. Learn about the importance of a properly witnessed and signed Will, and the misconceptions about inheritance in the absence of a Will, especially for unmarried couples.

W

hilst it may not be the most pleasant subject to discuss within your family, making a Will is important. Let’s take a look at some myths relating to Wills.

Even if you do not have a Will, you can still specify who you want to inherit your estate once you pass away, as long as you have written it down.

Unfortunately this is a Myth. A Will isn’t valid unless it has been witnessed in accordance with Section 9 of the Wills Act 1837. This requires the Will to be in writing and signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses. The two witnesses must then also sign the Will in the presence of the testator. There is a good chance that a homemade Will or a Will pack can lead to errors such as the Will not being signed properly or dependents’ being left out. This in turn can lead to the Will becoming invalid or disputes between those that believed they should have been beneficiaries.

If you are co-habiting with a partner to whom you are not married, and pass away without a Will, your estate will go to your partner Unfortunately this is also a Myth. There is no such thing as a “common law marriage” under the rule of law and accordingly

because there is no Will, the Rules of Intestacy apply. This means that a partner would not inherit under your Estate and it may be that people within your family with whom you do not maintain a relationship could inherit instead.

If you would like your estate to go to your partner when you pass away you need to make a Will.

At present, if you die without a Will and are married, your spouse or civil partner will inherit your assets including property and all the personal possessions, regardless of their value.

This is true to some extent. If you die without a Will and are married your spouse

or civil partner will inherit all of the assets held in your sole name including property up to a value of £270,000, and all the personal possessions, regardless of their value. Your spouse or civil partner will then inherit half of the remainder of your Estate and the remaining half will be distributed between any of your children equally. If there are no children then your spouse or civil partner gets the entire Estate.

If you want to specify certain amounts of money, possessions or property be distributed to your children then you must make a Will to express your wishes.

If you would to discuss making a Will Wilson Browne Solicitors are offering 20% off Wills in February.

Simply call 0800 088 6004 on Monday 5th February quoting “Purple Monday” to secure your appointment at a reduced rate.

Terms and conditions apply visit www.wilsonbrowne.co.uk/purple-monday/ For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

13

MIKE READER ADVERTISING FEATURE

Mike Reader’s

Warm Homes Plan

T

imes are tough at the moment. After 13 years, the Conservatives have run out of ideas and are pushing our country into further debt. They’re trashing our economy and failing to tackle energy bills that are spiraling out of control.

Over 6,000 households in my constituency, Northampton South, are in fuel poverty. And every week, when I head out to speak to my neighbours on the doorstep, energy prices come up time and time again.

Making a difference in Northampton As your Labour candidate for Northampton South, I am launching my Warm Homes Plan. The plan is simple. We’re going to build and enhance our local construction supply chain and deliver grants to help people make their home more energy efficient through: • Improved insulation.

• Energy-efficient boilers.

• Fixing leaking windows and doors.

• Upgraded ventilation.

Residents across the town have been sharing their views with Mike

Real jobs for people in our town This plan will create opportunities for local plumbers, electricians, and engineers. We estimate over 16,000 across the East Midlands.

We already have a great local construction supply chain, but with support, investment and reform, we will create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and safe secure employment for the trades people, engineers and specialists we need to make the plan work.

As someone who’s worked in the construction industry for over 15 years, I know how to build the skills and capacity we need in Northampton to deliver on my plan.

Your role in shaping Northampton’s future This plan is not just mine; it’s actually all of ours. It’s a commitment from me to each resident of Northampton, promising not just a reduction in energy bills but a step towards a sustainable future.

Together, we can make Northampton a leading example of how towns can tackle the climate crisis head-on while ensuring that no resident is left behind in the cold. Join me in this mission to bring warmth, efficiency, and sustainability to every home in our town.

Housing remains a top priority in Northampton

These are low-impact fixes that will make a massive difference to working people in Northampton. Cold and draughty houses will be a thing of the past, and warm, energy-efficient homes will be the standard in our town.

14

Mike Reader for Northampton South

www.mikereader.co.uk

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

MOMENTS T H AT M AT T E R 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.

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For details of our events, visit facebook.com/TheHawthornsNorthampton Weedon Road | Upton | Northampton | Northamptonshire | NN5 4WR

CHARITY

Elves spread Christmas cheer

with hospital gift deliveries

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year – and for patients, who are spending Christmas in local hospitals, it was a time to be surprised as ward staff bought out gift bags containing presents for them on Christmas day.

In-patients at Northampton General Hospital (NGH), Kettering General Hospital (KGH) and those at the community and mental health

hospitals run by Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT), who were facing Christmas in hospital, were given presents so they had a gift to open on the big day.

The festive surprise was made possible thanks to the Northamptonshire Health Charity which once again appealed to the local community to help put a big smile on the faces of more than 1,780 patients during the season of good will. NHS staff and teams also donated gifts to be given to patients.

Presents included toiletries, puzzles and games, biscuits and confectionery, scarves, hats, and lots more.

Alison McCulloch, Head of Fundraising for Northamptonshire Health Charity, (pictured handing the boxes of gifts over to staff at Berrywood Hospital in Northampton), said: “We are overwhelmed, year on year, by the donations of Christmas gifts received Northants Health Charity handing from the local community, local out Christmas gifts at Berrywood businesses and NHS staff teams.

Volunteers from locally-based companies lend a hand to sort gifts for patients

Our charity team works hard to ensure that every patient in hospital on Christmas Day is remembered and receives a gift. It’s these small, but important, gestures that are so important and really make a difference; we thank everyone who has donated!”

Donations make a real difference to patient care

T

hanks to kind donations and people fundraising for Northamptonshire Health Charity in aid of the local NHS hospitals they support, there is a wealth of equipment and projects that are being funded. All seek to enhance patient care and experience, and support the wellbeing of NHS staff.

Improving diagnostics Supporting early detection and diagnosis of heart conditions Thanks to the charity, NGH purchased an Echo Machine to support with training specialist registrars and highly specialist cardiac physiologists in the cardiology department. The machine produces very high-quality images, which are essential for early detections and diagnosis of certain conditions that can sometimes be missed because of the poorer quality images from lessspecialised equipment.

Speeding up heart procedures Donations have funded two additional licenses allowing multiple users to report on echocardiograms. These additional licenses mean echo reports for inpatients and outpatients will not be held up 16

because the department’s license is being used by training staff, for example.

CCU skylights

Breaking the language barrier A one-year trial of “Explain My Procedure” was also funded thanks to people’s support for the charity. These are animations to support communication and understanding of cardiology procedures for patients where English is not their first language. It is available in Arabic, Bengali, Hindu, Turkish and Polish.

Animations describe procedures, their benefits, risks and alternatives in a patient-friendly language. It provides people with the time to better understand the procedure they require.

Enhancing the environment for patients Supporting the NGH Critical Care Unit Donations to the charity meant they were able to fund a range of extras for the brand-new NHS-funded Critical Care Unit, which opened in June 2022.

From the colourful vinyl infographics that help to explain to relatives what different pieces of equipment are used for in the unit and what they do for their loved one, to a stunning mural; and LED sky lights so patients lying down for

Scan to donate

CCU Mural

long periods have something nice to see instead of the usual blank ceiling tiles.

Thanks to a £10,000 donation in memory of Mark Vickers from his family, friends, and colleagues at Medigold Health, the new family and relatives’ rooms was also furnished and decorated. Visitors are greeted by a bright, light, and airy space equipped with comfortable, modern furniture, a calming mural, and plenty of room for them to stay and sleep over when they need to. > If you would like to make a donation, or raise funds to make a difference across your local NHS hospitals visit the charity’s website at www.northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

“

“

Nobody would choose to be in the situation where they need to contest a will, but sometimes that’s where people end up. I work for clients following a bereavement, where families are in conflict, to help them achieve a fair outcome.

Gina Khera, Legal Director, Disputed Wills, Trusts & Estates T: 01604 463 238 | M: 07823 792 428 | E: gkhera@hcrlaw.com We offer you advice and information about all the ‘Moments that Matter’, from beginning a relationship and buying your first home, to planning for your later years. Take a look at our website today: www.hcrlaw.com HCR Hewitsons is a trading name of HCR Legal LLP which is authorised and regulated by the SRA

Discover the Marston Vale Line this spring!

Hop on your community railway for great days out! All services call at Fenny Stratford, Bow Brickhill & Woburn Sands - Lots to see and do including: Aspley Guise & Woburn Sands

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Explore trails through ancient woodland starting at either station.

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Free entry! Open Wednesday - Saturday 10:00 - 4:00.

Booking recommended for Tea Room, call 01525 287120.

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Gateway to the Millennium Country Park at the heart of The Forest of Marston Vale. Pleasant walk or cycle ride to the Forest Centre. Take your bike on the train - no charge!

Stroll along The Embankment, discover parks, independent shops and cafes and the Higgins Bedford - free entry!

Tel: 01234 832645 E: stephens@bedsrcc.org.uk marstonvalecrp www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

17

LOCAL HISTORY

Oundle, home of William Hacket

William Hacket, King of Europe?

O

Heresy in Northamptonshire

ver the years, Northamptonshire has produced many radicals keen to change the world.

Four hundred years ago it was no different, writes Laura Malpas.

The county was a hotbed of religious conspiracies involving both the extreme Roman Catholics at one end of the spectrum, and radical Puritan Protestants at the other, reflecting the alternating preferences of the Tudor monarchs.

18

The Gunpowder Plot originating in Northamptonshire is well known, but less so is the story of an Oundle man who plotted to remove Queen Elizabeth I from the throne and declare himself the new Messiah.

Not much is known about the early years of William Hacket. He was born in the mid sixteenth century to a poor family in Oundle and received no formal education, remaining illiterate all his life.

He was a Roman Catholic by birth and worked as a serving man in the homes of Northamptonshire gentry, including Sir Thomas Tresham. He seems to have been a lively young man, and was known for his wild and riotous behaviour, although it did not stop him from finding a relatively wealthy wife.

William’s wife was Anna Moreton, the widow of a comfortably well-off local farmer, and with her money he was

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

LOCAL HISTORY able to establish himself as a maltster.

Malt was integral to the production of beer and there is no doubt that William enjoyed sampling the end results of his labour. He had a violent temper and in one alehouse brawl arguing with a schoolmaster, he bit off his opponent’s nose, and ‘did in a most spiteful and divelish outrage eat it up’.

It is not known who converted him to Puritan Protestantism, but it did not diminish his devilish behaviour. As a Puritan he now did not approve of the wearing of priestly vestments, and on one occasion he was censured for hiding the parish priest’s surplice (a loose white robe) by sitting on it. His religious fervour grew, and so did his desire to share and preach to others by converting them to his beliefs.

William Hacket took this advice to heart. He travelled around the North of England and the Midlands, preaching, prophesying, performing exorcisms, and taking sexual advantage of women that he subsequently claimed had been deliberately placed in his way to ensnare him. On a visit to York, he claimed that he had been sent by God to prepare the way for the return of the Messiah. He was whipped and turned out of the city by the authorities. The same happened in Leicester, so he returned home to Northamptonshire. Here William began to preach against the Queen.

Queen Elizabeth I The Darnley portrait c1575

William then acquired a disciple. Giles Wiggington, another Oundle man, was well educated. He first studied at Oundle school and then at Trinity College, Cambridge. Giles was a priest based in Yorkshire and made a connection with William on a visit back home to Oundle and partnered with him in the malting trade. He was also a Puritan activist, who wrote and preached about religious matters which regularly offended the Archbishops of both York and Canterbury. Giles was impressed with William and encouraged him to travel to spread his words and new beliefs.

This was highly seditious and therefore dangerous behaviour which earned him imprisonment in Northampton Gaol.

Here it was rumoured that the guard had seen bright light coming from his cell as if he were being visited by an angel.

In 1591, after his release from gaol on a bond, William took the advice of Giles Wiggington and travelled to London to try his luck there.

Giles introduced William to two London gentlemen, Edmund Coppinger and Henry Arthington, both of whom were impressed with William’s beliefs and vigorous unscripted prayers, ‘as it were speaking to God face to face’.

William’s boasts of remaining unscathed while wrestling with the lions in the Tower of London convinced them of his inviolability.

Coppinger himself had a position in the Queen’s household and believed that God had called him to warn Elizabeth that she should reform both her personal life and that of the Church and government. Coppinger and Arthington quicky came to believe that William Hacket had come from heaven and had been appointed by the Holy Ghost to depose the Queen, overthrow the bishops, and cast out all the nonpreaching ministers from the church.

Along with other Officers of State, to be removed was Christopher Hatton the Lord Chancellor, whose

St Peter's church, Oundle

Oundle Market place

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

19

LOCAL HISTORY

Northamptonshire connections would have been well known to William.

They were to be replaced with puritan sympathisers, then William would take the throne and become King of Europe.

Coppinger fasted and prayed for forgiveness but starved himself to death.

And Arthington claimed he was a victim of witchcraft, repented and recanted his beliefs, then remained in prison for life.

The three decided that Coppinger was the last prophet of mercy, Arthington was the last prophet of judgement, and that William Hacket was the Messiah.

Hacket was led to a gibbet on 28th July 1591 whilst shouting blasphemies and railing against the Queen. He shouted one last prayer that was more of a threat to his God. ‘O God of heaven, mightie Jehovah… send some miracle out of a cloude to convert these Infidels and deliver me from these mine enemies: If not, I will fire the heavens, and teare thee from thy throne with my handes.’ Then the noose was slipped around his neck and he was pushed off the ladder.

This episode shook both the leaders of the establishment and the Puritan reform movement. It took nearly forty years before the Puritans regained their confidence, which eventually resulted in the English Civil Wars and the rise of Oliver Cromwell to replace the monarchy.

On 18th July 1591 Coppinger then produced and distributed hundreds of leaflets throughout London promising that something tremendous was imminent. That night in his lodgings, William defaced the Queen’s Arms, and pierced an image of her with a bodkin.

Both were treasonous acts.

The following day William stayed in bed whilst Coppinger and Arthington proclaimed him King and Messiah to a crowd gathered outside the Mermaid Tavern in Cheapside. They announced that they were prophets sent by God, and that those who believed and repented would be saved, but those

Sir Christopher Hatton c1575

who did not were promised eternal punishment. Coppinger and Arthington then spoke against the Queen and her ministers. This was not well received by the crowd, who protested and rioted.

All three were arrested that same day.

William Hacket was convicted of treason a week later. Despite pleading insanity, he was sentenced to the worst death reserved for traitors, to be hanged, Cheapside, London drawn, and quartered.

A grizzly end - an illustration depicting hanging, drawing and quartering

Walk around Oundle today, and one would never know that it was the centre of such a dramatic part of our history.

Much of the market town remains unchanged from the days when Hacket and his co-conspirators were plotting their heresy. One can only imagine the conversations that are going on there today! Why not go for a wander and see what you can learn?

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

20

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Any circumstances relating to family law are very stressful and in our experience it helps to obtain legal advice as early as possible.

Our family team understand the issues you face and offer practical and straightforward legal advice.

Our Partner led family team are experienced in all aspects of family law We are able to help you with:

• Child Arrangement Orders • Adoption • Care Proceedings • Divorce & Relationship Breakdown • Finance For straight talking advice call us on 01604 622101 or e-mail us at advice@bmtclaw.co.uk www.bmtclaw.co.uk 29 Billing Road, Northampton, NN1 5DQ

t: 01604 622101 f: 01604 230829 18 Brooklands Court, Kettering Venture Park, Kettering, NN15 6FD

t: 01536 523434 f: 01536 310138

Borneo Martell Turner Coulston Solicitors - simplifying the complex

OUSEDALE SCHOOL

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Ousedale – A Sixth Form with kindness embedded within the community

I

t is easy to highlight the tradition of academic excellence that Ousedale Sixth Form has held for many years, but they are also much more than their excellent results and destinations.

Claire Tierney, Sixth Form Co-ordinator at Ousedale School talks about what makes Ousedale stand out within their community, and the opportunities that their Sixth Form can provide outside of the classroom.

Claire has worked within the Sixth Form team for five years and is based in the purpose built Sixth Form study area, she is the friendly face that all 435 pupils see every day. “As a community, our Sixth Formers are polite, resilient and gracious but above all kindness

Students and volunteers celebrate the opening of MK Melting Pot’s Winter Warmer Café

is the biggest attribute that we share, and our pupils role model this every single day,” said Claire.

In addition to her day to day role, Claire works closely with the Community and Engagement Leaders who are passionate Sixth Formers undertaking regular volunteering and fundraising events within the community. In recent years pupils have formed a partnership with MK Melting Pot, a local charity whose mission is to reduce hunger amongst young people and families, and to empower people to overcome hardship.

The Community and Engagement Team have held Cultural Dress Day, Cultural Food Day, toy donations and bake sales to raise money for different initiatives that the MK Melting Pot have launched including their Winter Warmer (free drink and company for those struggling to keep warm in winter) and Stay and Play (a parent/toddler venue that supports and promotes community cohesion).

Claire said: “Our Community and Engagement Leaders have already set themselves a

Pupils help with apple pressing at MK Melting Pot

target of helping the Melting Pot achieve a herb garden, a greenhouse, and some outdoor toys for the community to enjoy in the summer.

They are full of enthusiasm which filters down through the whole school.”

Zalfa, a student who joined Ousedale from MK Academy talks about her experience so far in Sixth Form: “What I have loved the most about Ousedale is that they truly value and celebrate the diversity of students. Ms Tierney is always going out of her way to make sure Ousedale is an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and heard. I also love that Ousedale actively involves students by creating leadership groups for different aspects of the school community. It is great for students to have a voice and actively contribute to making our school an even better place.”

If you would like to know more about what Ousedale Sixth Form has to offer, get your ticket to their Open Evening on 11th January 2024 - https://bit.ly/Ousedale24

Ousedale Sixth Form

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

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

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

OFSTED (January 2020)

Students achieve well at Ousedale Sixth Form:

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

Sixth Form students at Ousedale benefit from:

• Specialist staff in a range of A Level and vocational courses • A purpose built Sixth Form Centre and excellent IT and study facilities • Wide-ranging enrichment activities including DofE, national competitions, music, ‘InvestIN’ courses and debating • Bursary funding available, including travel • High level of pastoral support and a dynamic Student Leadership Team • Excellent progression rates to Higher Education/Apprenticeships • Opportunities to participate and compete in sport and perform in the Arts 22

Sixth Form Open Evening

Thursday 11th January 2024, 6pm-8.30pm at our Newport Pagnell Campus

Presentations will be held at: 6pm and 6.45pm Presentations will be followed by a tour of the Sixth Form

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

www.ousedale.org.uk

Tickets are limited, book early to avoid disappointment!

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

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

SSAT EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES AWARDS 2019 AW

LEGAL

Distributing the gifts in an estate after probate In her article, Susan Owens, senior partner at Borneo Martell Turner Coulston, demystifies the complex process of distributing gifts in an estate post-probate, offering vital insights and practical tips for executors and beneficiaries navigating this final stage.

W

NORTHAMPTON 29 Billing Road Northampton NN1 5DQ 01604 622101 KETTERING 18 Brooklands Court Kettering Venture Park Kettering NN15 6FD 01536 523434 bmtclaw.co.uk

“Often executors and beneficiaries alike do not realise exactly how many different steps are required to administer an estate, but there are several parts of the process before distribution will be possible,” says Susan Owens, senior partner with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston.

“Once you are in a position to make distributions from the estate, there are various considerations that will need to be made.”

Beneficiaries Even though you will not be able to distribute the estate until late in the process, you should already have located all the beneficiaries and notified them that they are due to receive items or money from the estate.

For example, if the beneficiary is due to receive shares, they might prefer to receive the shares themselves so that they can retain these as an investment. Alternatively, they may not wish to deal with the complexities of shareholdings and simply prefer for the estate to sell the shares and then to receive the monetary value instead.

You should always be led by the beneficiary’s preferences and wishes.

Unwanted gifts

You must take all reasonable steps to locate beneficiaries. If you cannot locate a beneficiary yourself, you should seek help from a reputable tracing agent. If the tracing agent is also unable to locate the beneficiary, there are options available to you to ensure that you are not forced to hold on to that beneficiary’s share of the estate forevermore. A solicitor can help you to identify the most suitable option for your circumstances and help facilitate the process.

Communications

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.

Image is provided by Ingram Images Ltd

Susan Owens Senior Partner and Head of the Private Client department

hen dealing with the administration of an estate, distributing the gifts is one of the final stages. It is important that executors do not make distributions too soon, to protect themselves and the estate against debts or claims.

Beneficiaries often do not understand why things take so long, so proactive communication with beneficiaries is key to the prevention of frustration.

You should let them know as soon as the grant of probate has been received and when they can expect to receive their gift. Before distributing gifts to beneficiaries, make sure you check how they would like to receive the gift.

If the beneficiary does not wish to receive it, they can disclaim their gift, which could then leave the item available for another beneficiary who does wish to receive it as part of their share.

Disclaiming a gift requires a formal written document, which a solicitor can help you to arrange.

Practical distribution of gifts Where specific items are to be shipped to a beneficiary, the will should specify who is to pay the cost of the shipping.

This is particularly important if the beneficiary is based overseas or when the shipping would be more expensive than usual for any other reason. For gifts of shares, the cost of selling or transferring these would be borne according to the terms of the will. If the will does not specify who should pay the costs, it will be for the beneficiary of the shares to bear the burden.

Timing If some assets are taking a long time to realise, you may be under pressure from beneficiaries to distribute whatever you can. Specific gifts, such as jewellery or artwork, can be passed on to the recipients as soon as it is available, so long as the gift is not under dispute. You can also make interim distributions to those beneficiaries who are due to receive the residue of the estate whilst you are awaiting receipt of any remaining assets.

How can we help?

As with all stages of estate administration, any distribution must be in accordance with the will (or intestacy rules) and in the best interest of all the beneficiaries. For further information, please contact Susan Owens in the wills and probate team on: 01604 622101 or email susan.owens@bmtclaw.co.uk Borneo Martell Turner Coulston has offices in both Northampton and Kettering.

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

23

LOCAL NEWS

National award for Northampton Museum’s volunteer team

The Northampton Museum and Art Gallery’s military archive volunteers earn high commendation in the Volunteers in Museum Learning Award by the Marsh Trust and British Museum.

T

he volunteer team at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery has achieved national recognition, being highly commended in the prestigious Volunteers in Museum Learning Award. This accolade, presented jointly by the Marsh Trust and the British Museum, highlights the significant contribution of volunteers in enriching museum learning experiences.

This dedicated team of six volunteers has been instrumental in managing the museum’s military archive. They maintain a collection that includes artifacts and documents from the Northamptonshire Regiment and the Northamptonshire Yeomanry.

Their work involves responding to public inquiries about family

Councillor Adam Brown (left) with volunteers at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

histories, assisting with research and organising visits to the collection.

One notable interaction facilitated by the team was a visit from the C-Company Anglian Regiment, who viewed the Victoria

Crosses held by the museum. This is a testament to the team’s role in bridging the gap between the community and its military history.

Councillor Adam Brown, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, Culture, and Leisure at

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West Northamptonshire Council, praised the team’s contribution.

“Their work greatly enhances the understanding and appreciation of our local military history for visitors,” he said.

The award, part of a 15-year collaboration between the British Museum and the Marsh Charitable Trust, celebrates the invaluable role of volunteers in museums. It forms part of the Trust’s broader award program across various disciplines including science, conservation, and heritage.

This commendation underscores the vital role of volunteer teams like the one at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery in preserving and showcasing historical narratives and artifacts.

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HOME & GARDEN

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The secret to getting an Instagrammable bathroom With bathroom design specialist Ripples The proper lighting, colour palette and space-saving design elements all help create a bathroom that you will not only want to shout about but contribute towards creating an environment that you rush to retreat to after a very demanding day. Erin White Designer at Ripples Towcester offers all the inspiration you need, along with practical advice on how to get that Instagrammable bathroom you’ve always wanted.

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ince bathrooms are designed to be a place of relaxation, integrating a minimalistic design can work well in achieving this goal. To incorporate a touch of luxe, brushed brass fixtures and fittings are a great place to start, from the taps and shower, all the way through to the toilet roll holder and vanity handles. When it comes to colour schemes, there are many choices. Gentle neutral hues highlight the spa-like atmosphere, whilst bold and vibrant colours provide a more visually compelling setting. A modern, polished look may also be achieved in the bathroom by using tiles, whether they are used as accents or from floor to wall.

During the darker months, it can be challenging to preserve natural light, which isn’t ideal for those idyllic photo opportunities. The natural lighting in the room can be further enhanced by adding a few extra light sources, such as pendants and wall lamps. Within the vanity

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drawers and on sensors beneath cabinets, LED highlight the spa-like strip lighting can be installed for extra ambience. atmosphere Another eye-catching addition to any design would be a storage niche. Whether placed within the shower or along the walls, a niche offers a practical and stylish way to showcase your favourite toiletries. Freestanding bathtubs provide a smooth, modern appearance and ample space for washing young children or enjoying a long soak, all while guaranteeing the room’s seamless performance.

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For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

27

Berry & banana smoothie bowls

FOOD & DRINK

METHOD Preparation time: 10 minutes Serves: 2

INGREDIENTS 2 small bananas, roughly chopped 100g frozen mixed berries 2 medjool dates, pitted and roughly chopped 4 mint leaves ½ of a 500g pot natural organic yogurt About 80g fresh blueberries and blackberries Small handful spelt flakes

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1. Put the bananas, frozen berries, dates, mint and yogurt in a small high-speed blender. Whizz until completely smooth (you may need to stop it and scrape down the sides halfway through).

2. Divide the smoothie between two bowls and top with the fresh berries and spelt flakes. Serve immediately.

COOK’S TIP You can top the smoothie bowls with other fruits – try sliced mango and kiwi fruit instead of berries for a tropical twist. The spelt flakes add crunch, but toasted pumpkin seeds or flaked almonds work well, too.

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

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RESTAURANT & BAR

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Vegan and Gluten-free dishes available.

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

FEATURE

Every animal adoption

saves two lives The famous line, ‘adopt don't shop’ when it comes to taking on a new pet is so important, and every time someone does that, they save the animal they take from the shelter, and they save one more life – by freeing up that space for another to take. Animals in Need manager Annie Marriott explained the importance of adoption, and the process involved at the Little Irchester site.

Pulse's Sammy Jones took note...

“E

verything we do is driven by our passion to rescue, neuter and rehome the animals who are unfortunate enough to need help, but fortunate enough to end up here with us,” Annie told me, “I am sure I speak on behalf of every last volunteer and every member of staff when I say that the best part of this job is seeing an animal leaving the premises with a new family – it doesn't matter whether that animal is a Bearded Dragon or a Yorkshire Terrier. Just knowing they are safe and will be well looked after is everything to us.”

Animals are not items, they are sentient beings that feel fear, want to be loved and need to feel secure and happy.

Consequently, the vetting process at AIN is thorough, and with good reason.

“The first thing to do if you are interested in welcoming a new member to your household, is to head to our website which will have all details and images of the animals currently available for adoption, together with the procedure and criteria.

“Quite simply, the rehoming procedure has to be thorough because the animals have already endured enough by the time they reach us; they might have been abandoned and ended up in a pound, or left at a veterinary practice when the owner tires of them and decides to have them euthanised.

“Others have lost their homes when families have been evicted, or perhaps their loving owner has passed away. Many of the cases are 30

Homeless after a break-up sweet Harley

Harley's 'mum' and 'dad' have split up and the end of their relationship left her homeless, so she was handed to Animals in Need.

“Like many animals that come here, she was bewildered, but unlike so many others she had been well cared for. Sadly, break-ups often result in animals being handed in because people find themselves in places that don't accept animals, or without a home themselves, so they simply can't care for an animal, as is the case here.”

sad, some desperately so,” Annie says, shaking her head, “Animals need secure, loving families who are committed to settling them into their new homes and looking after them for their lifetime.”

The adoption process need not be painful though: “It's fairly simple,” Annie told Pulse, “Kindness is important, as we aren't a place where rudeness is tolerated! We will work with

you to establish if you and your family can offer the individual animal its needs.

“In these pressured times, it should go without saying that you need to be able to afford to take an animal into your family too. If you are forced to send the animal back to us when you realise that actually, you don't have the necessary money in the coffers to be able to keep them, it's devastating for that animal to once again be confined to a cage or kennel here.

“Animals don't know about bills and

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

FEATURE

Beautiful Amber was taken in by AIN from a council pound, where she had been for too long and was at risk of being put to sleep.

“She was taken in as a stray and is a lovely six-year-old girl. Simply she is a victim of breeder greed – she is chipped to her original breeder,” Annie said.

affordability – they don't understand why they have been abandoned and many animals suffer trauma and shut down as a result.”

The process to adopt a pooch is a little bit more involved – a minimum of three visits is necessary for potential owners to bond with, and earn the trust of, the dog.

Generally though, if you see your perfect pet – be that a chicken, a feline or a rodent – you'll be emailed some questions from the AIN team before being invited in to meet the animal in question.

“If the meeting goes well you can reserve, and then once the home check is passed you can come back and adopt. All animals leave us neutered, vaccinated and chipped where applicable, and with rescue back up for life.”

With veterinary bills sky high, the importance of insurance for your pet can't be emphasised enough – AIN will give you a head start, with all dogs and cats receiving four weeks free insurance.

Rescue centre staff really do have to listen to nonsense though – imagine handing over your pet 'because they don't match our new furnishings.'

Seriously, Annie has heard that excuse more than once. Clearly the notion that we are a nation of animal lovers is a little wide of the mark.

“People relinquish their animals for all reasons, and some of them are simply ridiculous, and very upsetting,” Annie said with

a sigh, “Thankfully, most people who want to There are way more animals than there are adopt from us are really kind and listen to the homes and rescue spaces right now. guidance they are given.

“Dogs at the pounds are getting euthanized “The hardest thing by far is to rehome rabbits on a daily basis. They never asked to be born – some people build absolute mansions and they certainly do not deserve to be killed for their buns, but others are still of the because of people's greed. opinion that silly little hutches “Some of them are less than a year old, are acceptable, and we have it is tragic.” received abuse challenging As with all rescue centres, this thought.” anyone adopting from AIN will But make no mistake, have to pay a donation fee Thumper will not be which enables the centre to going home with continue its life-saving work, you to live in a and with the basic running cramped cage. costs this month coming in “Absolutely not,” at five thousand pounds, Annie agrees, “I and £20K worth of bills on will not send a Annie's desk waiting to be rabbit to a dirty, paid, every penny counts. sad existence in a Gorgeous rat girls Katie & Kodie tiny hutch that is not have just been rehomed fit for purpose. Faced with that situation they are better off staying here with us.”

Right now, AIN's kennels, cattery and rabbit garden are filled to bursting – there Dog £250 are no empty pens to be had.

Cat £75 But you can help to turn that tide in the future – by adopting. Don't go to a breeder Rabbit £75 and splash the cash on a specific breed, or Guinea Pig £20 (F) £40 (M) a pedigree. Just like we aren't all catwalk Ferret £60 models, we do all deserve happiness, and Chinchilla £50 the same goes for our four-legged pals.

“Breeders need to stop. It's just a business, Degu £15 and because people persist in purchasing from Rat/Mouse £10 them, the demand is still there, which means Hamster/Gerbil £10 more are bred and more animals deserving of Hen £5 homes stay in kennels. It's so sad.”

Minimum AIN adoption donation

These seven 10-week-old kittens were discovered abandoned in a box in Milton Keynes.

With no space to accommodate them on site, AIN called on one of their experienced fosters to keep them safe for the moment.

“No matter how bad the situation is, I implore people to take animals to a rescue centre.

It is disgraceful to dump babies in a box and leave them. These little ones are lucky they were found and survived. Please have a heart and do the right thing,” Annie urged. > Find out how you can support Animals In Need by clicking to animals-in-need.org

The kittens found dumped in a cardboard box in Milton Keynes

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

31

HOME & GARDEN

Cary silk rectangular cushion piped finish £160 sweetpeaandwillow.com

Caro Bed - Here Comes The Sun Bedroom - Landscape - £329.99 I Love Wallpaper peaches and cream £16

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Tonal pinks twist dinner candles, box/2 £6.49 giselagraham.co.uk

Set of 2 peach honeycomb ball decorations £11

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Peach Fuzz Pantone Colour of the Year 2024 The news is in - Pantone has revealed their selection for the 2024 Colour of the Year, and it’s Peach Fuzz! Described by the Pantone Colour Institute as a soothing tone ‘delicately poised between pink and orange’, Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz was selected to symbolize a desire for togetherness and comfort in times of uncertainty. We’re totally smitten with this color, and to spark your creativity, we’ve compiled a variety of images from our clients showcasing how you can incorporate this charming and understated hue into your life in the upcoming year.

‘Take me to Paris’ coffee cup £14

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Liberty, vaisselle, glass vase with two handles £645 libertylondon.com

Crochet storage basket made with upcycled tshirt yarn in fuzzy peach £25 folksy.com

32

Turkish cotton peach bath towel set £22.99

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December 2023 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

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Caroline Chisholm School, The Wooldale Centre for Learning, Wootton Fields, Northampton, NN4 6TP

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For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

33

HOME & GARDEN

DIGGING DEEP The time for a blooming great change

I

t’s a new year, a time when thoughts turn to clean slates and new tasks.

If you are reading this while glancing at that bland backyard space, that miniovergrown jungle, or that barren, bland excuse for a garden, why not start there?

Sprucing up the garden is a great way to get active, learn new skills and enjoy some ‘me’ time.

And, the phrase, ‘what you put in, you get out,’ is so apt, as keen amateur gardener Debbie Keating would agree.

“I can’t say it was unloved as it did have a huge pond in it at one point, but that had been removed many years before,” Debbie told Digging Deep of her outside space, “The rest was just plain field-like grass, and not really used. There was just one tree and an odd bit of wall...”

It would be a long-term project, and Debbie decided to be sensible when it came to her aims.

“I had to be realistic about my lack of gardening skills and ability, and find a way of working that mitigated both, I am fully aware that I am pants at plants,” Debbie said, explaining her naivety when she began her garden journey, “I have two houseplants alive, and both do better when I ignore them. In order for my garden to look good, most of the design interest had to rely on structure.

“I also needed help on plant choice, which came from my mum, who at 89 is still providing much of the produce for the plant stall at her local village fetes.”

Debbie wanted a landscaped space that would work on different levels: a place for entertaining others, for enjoying the peace and quiet of the outdoors, and one that would be beneficial for our pollinators.

Turning that green space into an alluring one began with taking some basic measurements.

“I started off measuring the garden and putting that into an online garden design app. I used a free trial on shoot.com to work out what I could do with the space and fiddle about with the design to get a plan made. I took a 34

Debbie transformed her garden to give it some law-n and order - despite being ‘pants at plants’

screenshot of the plan and stuck to it. It then didn’t matter if I managed a little or a lot.

“As long as I stuck to that, everything was considered progress. My brother and nephew helped with the heavy labour, and my mum picked out some lovely shrubs which were good for pollinators, and were also easy to look after, or rather be ignored.

“Milton Keynes soil is basically a 2m thick layer of clay, so there was a lot of heavy work involved. The main lawn was rotovated, then mixed with soil conditioner, left over winter to freeze and rotovated again before laying a hard wearing lawn...”

The seeds of Debbie’s creation had been set, figuratively, and literally.

Next month, we’ll see how she executed her plan, and she might just inspire you too.

How does your garden grow?

A

new year! The very cold weather last month hasn’t stopped the broad beans, salad crops, beetroots or carrots from thriving, as they are protected by rows of cloches.

As the month progresses, we will be sowing more carrot seeds on the plot, protected by fleece, and celery (in modules), lettuces and chillies in the propagator, as they need a higher temperature to germinate.

By the end of the month, the first and second early potatoes should be put in an egg tray, shoot end up, in a light, frost-free situation.

They could be ready to plant out in early March.

Growing one or two tubers in a big tub can be very productive.

The flower borders will benefit from weeding and tubs will continue to be attractive if pansies and violas are deadheaded. A mulch applied to the worked spaces will be valuable and attractive.

I have a large number of terracotta pots in which I have planted tulips. A neat tunnel was dug down to each bulb and most eaten.

I suspected a rat but I am told that squirrels particularly like them. I am going to put fine plastic netting over each pot next year. It can be removed when the shoots appear above the compost.

My mornings start with a mug of tea and the remaining boiling water is poured into the birdbath. I scatter the birds’ seed under a large, upturned hanging basket on the ground.

Pigeon-proof – but the tiny birds show no fear and are waiting for me to give them breakfast.

Finally, a Happy New Year to you all!

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 Margaret at m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk or 01604 890875

You can start to chit your early potatoes towards the end of the month

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

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For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

35

INTERIORS

www.rowenhomes.com

Spacejoy for unsplash

www.loaf.com

Restful Retreats

W

ith the frenzy of Christmas behind us, January is a great month for hunkering down, relaxing and enjoying the long nights of winter. Where once, January was my least favourite month, now I relish the opportunity to stay in and surround myself with soft lighting and textured cushions and blankets, retreating from the world for just a few weeks more before the activity of the spring and the demands of the longer days kick in.

Of all the rooms in the house, our bedrooms make the best sanctuaries. Much of our homes are now either open plan and multifunctional, or are spaces dedicated to working from home. Being able to escape to our bedrooms to find solace, and peace and quiet away from the noise, is quite a luxury.

A bedroom is the perfect place to transform into a snug setting and it can be done easily, effortlessly, and economically, which is perfect if we’re feeling the post-Christmas pinch.

Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262 www.millsandkinsella.com 36

When you start to pack away the decorations, why not select some to keep out? Anything with a starry, icicle or snowflake theme is arguably more suited to being on display in wintery January than it is in mild December. Hang decorations on your wardrobe door or drawer handles, drape fairy lights over your headboard or wrap them around your mirror or bedposts.

If you like subtle lighting but prefer not to use fairy lights, LED candles are a safe and realistic alternative. Suitable for shelves, bedside tables, and non-working fireplaces, they can be remote controlled for use from the bed, or timer controlled to enable you to drift off to sleep without having to turn everything off.

Another way to give your bedroom a cosy uplift is to switch your soft furnishings for those that are thicker, warmer, and more textured. Think knitted blankets, faux sheepskin rugs and chunky throws, ideal for snuggling amongst when reading a book or watching tv.

If you’ve been given any new ornaments, photo frames, books, or pictures for Christmas, find space for them on shelves within your bedroom.

Christmas can be hectic, so it’s therapeutic to be able to spend time organising your things and putting new possessions away. Bedrooms are ideally suited to being personalised but don’t let them get too cluttered. Ideally, arrange items in groups of three and think about the spacing, height and prominence of objects.

For the ultimate way to unwind, invest in a diffuser. Research suggests aromatherapy helps to lower stress, decrease anxiety, reduce

www.soakandsleep.com

depression, and improves sleep quality. The best essential oils for promoting relaxation are lavender, rose, chamomile, geranium, jasmine, sweet marjoram, and bergamot. If you’d rather stay with something seasonal (but different from the fir, cinnamon, and clove scents of Christmas) then try orange, vanilla or sandalwood.

Flowers aren’t synonymous with January, but you can still find ways to bring the garden into your bedroom. Global media company Forbes recently reported that house plants can reduce stress and improve health, citing that rooms

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

THE ARTS

Jonathan Borba for unsplash

How to make a statement with the perfect contemporary sculpture for your space

www.rowenhomes.com

with plants have cleaner air, better feng shui, are ‘emotionally cheering’ and prettier. Early daffodils and snowdrops might be available in your garden or to buy in garden centres. Failing that, houseplants can be bought all year round.

Woody stems make for beautifully architectural arrangements and dried bouquets offer a sustainable option.

With the taste of Irish coffees, mulled wine and hot chocolate still on our lips, warm drinks are a great way to relax ourselves and lighten our mood. In a bedroom, a coffee machine or teasmade makes for a wonderful addition.

During Sleep Awareness Week last year, writer Grace Simple claimed that the coffee maker on her bedside table made her more excited to wake up, served as her snooze button (she hits the start button as a snooze then fully rises when it's finished), and functioned as a bufferworthy ritual that gave her some quiet time in bed before she got up to face the day.

January is a long month with many hours of darkness and typically lots of icy mornings. But if you get your décor right - with atmospheric lighting, comforting soft furnishings, shelving displays that are well-considered, a new fragrance, beautiful house plants and tea and coffee on tap - then you’re sure to love being at home. You may even be disappointed when February is suddenly upon us!

H

ave you ever thought about sculpture for your home?

Sculpture can seem daunting - while it looks tactile you’re not sure if you can touch. It’s solid, weighty, taking up space and asking to be admired. It can stand out or fit into your room - make a statement or enhance your look.

Like any artwork, choosing sculpture is personal, you want something which appeals to you and works within your space.

Think about: ● The size - where will you place it?

For freestanding pieces, maybe place something where you expect to position the work seeing how that feels in the room. ● The materials - how do they work in the room? Woods and bronzes might feel natural, bright metallics will often stand out. ● Is it a focal point?

There is a wide range of contemporary sculpture available with artists today creating small wildlife to large figurative pieces, humorous characters to stunning realism.

Carl Payne creates bronze figurative pieces with a bold contemporary style.

Inspired by music and the female form, his pieces are vibrant and provide a dramatic focal point wherever you see them.

Jennine Parker has been influenced by dance and gymnastics throughout her life which we can see in her work - full of grace and strength, movement and texture. These are bold, sensuous pieces encouraging you to reach out and enjoy the texture as well as admire the piece from every angle.

Michael Talbot’s inspiration is the human form, it’s astonishing how much emotion he conveys in his most recent works featuring just two hands joining in tender moments; each piece is enhanced with a unique patina and stunning finish.

Doug Hyde creates works with real affection, they’re popular pieces depicting smiles easily shared. Cast in porcelain, his sculptural works have the polished finish of his paintings, bringing a smile wherever they are seen.

Meet some of our contemporary sculptors Richard Cooper and Company celebrate the English countryside, playful pets, and scenes from nature with beautiful details, sumptuous textures, and an energy that brings the creatures to life.

Natalie Trembecki Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

37

HOME & GARDEN

What should you consider when buying new energy efficient windows and doors?

A

nyone who is considering replacing doors or windows in their homes may feel overwhelmed by the process and the various, options, advice and claims made by different companies.

So, what should you look out for when researching? How do you know that the claims which are being made are true, and what are the key things to look out for? Knowing the answers to questions can make a real difference in making the right decision for such a large investment. As the best product, fitted in the right way can save consumers hundreds every year in energy bills – but getting it wrong can be very costly.

Here are some of the key things to check: Does the company have independent accreditations and can they prove it ?

It is always best to check the company’s independent accreditations. For example, the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) are the leading consumer accreditation for energy efficiency testing, so make sure they are part of the scheme.

The Police-Approved Secured by Design is critical for security. Made in Great Britain for UKbased approved manufacturing, and Which? for complete peace of mind, as they validate company’s finances every year. It’s also worth checking that the company is fully verified on each site by checking online.

Has the company won any national awards?

Look out for national awards like the G-Awards, which rewards excellence in the glass and glazing industry. These are independent awards where companies go through rigorous testing for manufacturing and installation.

Being a winner or finalist demonstrates that a company is at the top of their game and worth investing in.

Do they manufacture their own products as well as install them?

It is incredibly beneficial for the consumer if the company both manufactures and installs their products. This ensures that there is only one company responsible for the whole process.

So should anything go wrong the responsibility lies with one party, and the blame cannot be passed - which unfortunately happens all too often in the glazing industry.

Does the company employ its own installers?

If the answer is ‘no’ and the company relies on sub-contractors, who will likely be paid per 38

frame, then look for alternatives. A company which employs its own team of installers will work on getting it right first time, rather cutting corners but trying to install as quickly as possible.

Make sure you view the products before making a decision?

For most companies, a design consultant may visit your home. It’s vitally important you view the products before purchasing such a large investment. Having a detailed demonstration of the product before you buy will allow you to understand what you are purchasing and all the features and benefits. It’s even better if the company has a showroom, as it’s a great way of seeing more variety, comparing different styles, options and colours so you make the right decision to suit your property.

Always check how long the company has been trading There are companies who have a habit of closing and opening again, and again, so it makes sense to use one with a trusted reputation built up over decades of uninterrupted trading. Check online to see how long a company has been trading for and ask for testimonials from previous clients.

Also check to see if they offer a range of finance options including interest free, or low deposits up to ten years. The most secure companies will be regulated by the FCA (financial conduct authority) and will able to offer the maximum Home Improvement loan value of £50,000 – so it’s good to check, as this alone also demonstrates their financial stability.

Where do you start?

Buying windows can be a bit of a mine field, that’s why you should always do your research and ask an expert. Award-winning T&K Home Improvements have had 44 years in the industry manufacturing and installing Windows, Doors and Living Spaces for over 60,000 satisfied customers. Their products are manufactured on site and their team of experts are available to give free advice.

Alternatively, you can book a show site or factory tour. To find out more visit www.tkhi.co.uk or call 0800 622 716

What guarantees and what finance options do they offer?

A well-established company will offer an unconditional 10-year guarantee, so check that everything is covered within it.

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Established 1979

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

39

MUSIC

d n a s r e g r u b e s e e Ch ! it t o g u o Y ? it ir p s n e te

E

lvana claims to be the ‘world’s finest Elvis fronted tribute to Nirvana,’ which isn’t that much of a bold claim when you consider that tributes to grunge titans fronted by impersonators of The King are a pretty rare occurance!

Hailing from the bowels of Disgraceland, the rock n roll titans of the afterlife promise rock & roll meets grunge as ‘Elvis fronts Nirvana and gives the band the front man it’s been missing since ‘94.’ Ouch.

On Friday, January 26, Elvana will tear through the catalogue of Kurt and Co. while splicing in grunged up sections of the King of rock & roll’s greatest moments.

Essentially, ticket-holders for the Roadmender date should prepare themselves for a whopper mash up of overdrive and old school rockabilly.

Ask the band for more, and they remain cryptic: “It smells like cheeseburgers and teen spirit, daddy-o!”

Also at the venue this month: From The Jam plays on Friday, January 19 as part of the All From Disgraceland to Mod Cons 45th Anniversary tour.

Shoe Town - Elvana All Mod Cons was the third elpee from the Weller fronted mob, and included tracks like Down in the Tube Station at Midnight and ‘A’ Bomb in Wardour Street.

The band will play that album Scan the QR code to visit the Roadmender in full, and will be shining up website or click to theroadmender.com a few of those other hits and favourites that made The Jam so revered.

Support is coming from Purple Hearts.

This is a daytime bash – starting at 3pm and On Saturday, January 27, We Call It Jungle rolling through to 10pm – and promises to Part 3 returns to help scrub away those deliver the best in jungle, drum & bass, reggae January blues and give you the first blowout and dub sounds with a high end production of 2024. you’ll not see elsewhere.

Latent Dream - hitting the scene in the ‘fampton

New year hopes and Latent Dreams

L

atent Dream are a new quartet on the Northampton scene, peddling alt-indie rock. Some of you might just have seen the band’s debut show at The Charles Bradlaugh, but no worries if you missed that – they’ll be live at The Garibaldi Hotel (Jan 12) and they are on

40

the Hotel Lux bill at The Black Prince (Jan 31) mentioned on the next page.

A single, Make You A Star, is set for release this January.

Latent Dream say they combine hard hitting guitar with spacey riffs, bouncy bass lines and crashing drums, and

they take influence from classic artists including Nirvana, Radiohead, The Cure and Joy Division.

We like the intro on their FB page best, which simply reads ‘Northampton’s Weezer.’

Sure we’ll be writing more about them as the year progresses...

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

MUSIC

The best for Miles around

M

iles Hunt is back in the ‘fampton (Jan 13) with a date at The Black Prince for SBD, and The Wonder Stuff fella will arrive armed to the back teeth with material – he’s got nearly four decades worth of produce to choose from, including material from his latest album, Things Can Change.

There was no new formula when it came to rustling up tracks for the opus; he just made use of the tried and tested way; writing about things that were happening around him, and the things that had happened to him in the past.

Oh, and he wanted to make the music as uplifting as possible, accepting that we live in a constant state of flux, and that things can, and will change.

Indie-soul trio Skinny Living (Jan 30) are coming to Shoe Town from their homeland of Wakefield. Are they any good? Well, 75 million worldwide streams is hardly an insignificant

amount, is it? And they’ve got close to 200K followers on FB. That’s no fluke.

Their blurb says that ‘Skinny Living’s story is one of struggle, troubling situations and relentless hard graft. It’s also one of synchronicity, chance meetings, and the unflinching belief that their glorious indie soul music will reach the audience it deserves.’

The band will be celebrating its 10th decade in 2024, which will be a double celebration as the band will be releasing its debut album too.

As for that name? It’s got nothing to do with eating disorders or refusing a sweet treat. The official term describes the financial reality Miles Hunt - Jan 13

and lifestyle of the working class; ‘Hard graft on a low income with a lust for life, passion for family and an optimistic attitude about the future.’

Hotel Lux (Jan 31) delivers the first Independent Venue Week show.

This lot – once contenders for the mantle of Britain’s most self-conscious band – cut loose their debut album in 2023, and Hands Across The Creek was a bold delivery.

So far as influences go, they must have cool record collections of their own, citing Ian Dury, The Stranglers, Dr Feelgood and Neil Young.

The first single from the aforementioned album Common Sense was apparently inspired by the RMT strikes, trade union leader Mick Lynch, and the media’s treatment of Jeremy Corbyn. The band says it’s their most euphoric and danceable single to date.

A big bill of sounds is further swelled by Bloody/Bath and Latent Dream.

Catch Skinny Living (left) on Jan 30 and Hotel Lux (right) at The Black Prince on Jan 31

> Visit sbdpromotions.com for ticket links

Scan the QR code to visit SBD Promotions

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

41

MUSIC

‘We learned fast... we had no choice!’

Sammy Jones speaks to Natalie Norris-Lee, co-owner of the Roadmender as she celebrates a special anniversary.

F

ourteen years ago, Natalie’s husband Dave came home with an idea: ‘How about we take over the Roadmender?’ he suggested. After laughing at the suggestion, smiles gave way to serious conversations, and they approached the trust that owns the venue.

Suddenly they found themselves at the helm of a venue that has played host to some of the biggest names in music.

Dave had a long-running association with The Roadmender, having supplied security there, but neither of them had the necessary experience to run a venue.

Tech-specs and riders and sound levels and a zillion other aspects of venue management were new things to be tackled. But they had a passion.

“My background was in hospitality and Dave’s was running the security business,” Natalie said, “So the business side of things wasn’t the biggest concern, but the music industry is a completely different kettle of fish. We went into it blindfolded and a little bit naive!” she smiles. You might say they were thrown in at the deep end.

“The day we took over, The Roadmender was hosting a club night, and 90% of the staff had left. I was working for TGI’s at the time and called on lots of my colleagues who came and gave their support, rolling up their sleeves and helping turn what could have been a nightmare into a successful first event.

“During the early days at the venue we had some really great people around us who guided and supported us and we learned fast.

We had no choice!”

That’s not to say there haven’t been challenges to face – Covid being the most

testing. The pandemic ruined many arts venues, and The Roadmender was closed for well over a year. It was a bleak time.

“Like so many other businesses, we thought we would never be able to recover,” Natalie admits, “Without the government’s support, the Arts Council grants, The Music Venues Trust, and most importantly of all, the support from our amazing supporters with the Crowdfunding scheme, we wouldn’t have made it,” she acknowledges, “But, despite all the hardship and tragedy that Covid presented, it also pulled people together, and we have a rock solid community. We feel privileged to have such amazing support.”

That’s not to say Natalie and Dave don’t still face challenges – they do.

“We don’t receive any council funding, so in order for the venue to survive, we have to run it on a tight shoe string. Dave and I do everything from maintenance to bookings, finances, marketing, cleaning, rotas and Health and Safety, and so on.

“We have a fantastic team of bar staff and security who are like extended family, and we couldn’t do it without them, and of course the promoters who put on shows are integral to the success too.”

So that’s a retrospective look at their time so far, but the duo are very much looking ahead right now.

“We want to ensure the venue survives and does even more of what people want.

The ideal would be if we could open for four or five days a week providing the same fantastic content and up and coming content...”

If sheer hard work counts for anything, Natalie and Dave will smash it!

Dave and Natalie mark Movember at the venue

Natalie’s Top 5 ‘Mender shows 1 Fontaines D.C. This was an unbelievably special gig for all of us – the first show back after the venue had been closed for 492 days because of the Covid pandemic.

One customer described the gig as ‘a euphoric release after Covid’ and it was one hell of a show.

2 The Magic Numbers The first gig after we took the Roadmender over. It was a great set and will always have a special place in our heart.

3 Dragonforce The show put on by these guys was incredible! The energy and the visuals were mind blowing. It took eight hours to load in, and I honestly didn’t think all the kit would even fit, but we got there.

4 Soul II Soul I have totally personal reasons for this one.

They were ‘my’ band when I was growing up, and I felt star struck and blessed to be having them play at the Roadmender.

5 College gigs Northampton College holds its annual end of year show here, and it’s great to see the bands, artists and tech side grow year on year. It is usually a three year course, so you really see the progression in their confidence and ability, and the students love the fact that they are playing on a stage that has hosted so many legends.

Therapy? at The Roadmender. Photo by David Jackson - dtj.photos

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January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

THEATRE

The Frogs - hoptastic times

Diversity - Jan 29 - 31

Hoppy talkin’, talking, hoppy talk!

A show produced by Royal & Derngate plays on the Royal stage and helps get the new year off to a flying start. Read all about it and then stop pondering and go book tickets, says Pulse’s Sammy Jones as she casts an eye over January’s stage shows in the town...

The Pasadena Roof Orchestra will dazzle at The Royal (Jan 10) with classics from the pens of Irving Berlin, Ray Noble and Cole Porter, as well as electrifying hot jazz from the likes of Fletcher Henderson and Duke Ellington.

Pack up your troubles, come on get happy – this show is guaranteed to chase all your cares away, at least for a little while, with the pick of the hot dance music from the 20s and 30s.

Die Hard parody Yippee Ki Yay (The Royal, Jan 11), was postponed last year due to the temporary closure of the building, but the curtain will rise this time.

When gunmen seize an LA skyscraper, off duty policeman John McClane lready a celebrated West End hit, is the hostages’ only hope.

2:22 A Ghost Story will bring chills This uplifting action romp to the Derngate (Jan 5-13), with a (and unauthorised parody) cast of class including The Wanted’s pays affectionate tribute Jay McGuiness, Emmerdale actress to the iconic 80s festive Emma Wade, Call the Midwife’s George fan favourite. Divorce, Rainford and Vera Chok from Hollyoaks. foot trauma and German Late Bloomer This supernatural thriller bagged the gong for Sarah Millican terrorists all feature in the Best New Play at the Whatsonstage Awards delivery. Obviously. and is funny and adrenaline-fuelled in equal Another rescheduled event is measure. funny man Carl Hutchinson (The Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but Royal, Jan 12), and a day after the Geordie her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They boy plays, The Dazzling Diamonds bring their argue with their first dinner guests, old friend brand-new comedy drag show to the venue Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead (Jan 13). really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, Songs from artists including Dolly Parton, but something feels strange and frightening, Cher and Adele will air, and adult themes and and that something is getting closer, so they’re strong language is a given as Lola Lush, Miss going to stay up… until 2:22… and then they’ll Alexis and Bailey La Creame deliver glamour, know. And so will you if you dare to take a ticket. laughter and fun.

A Royal & Derngate and Spymonkey co-production follows (The Royal Jan 19 – Feb 3) with The Frogs, ‘a delirious trip through Greek theatre, a monster-filled Underworld and classic vaudeville double acts. It promises more existential angst than Clash of the Titans and more bronzed oiled torsos than Waiting For Godot. Oh, and there’s a jumping chorus of tap-dancing frogs!’

A night filled with beauty, wisdom and courage arrives at The Derngate (Jan 20-23) when Shen Yun invites you to experience China before communism, on an extraordinary journey through China’s 5,000 years of divinely Follow the yellow brick road inspired culture. to The Old Savoy - Jan 26

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The scene is set for an exquisite night, but don’t take our word for it, take that of Strictly’s head judge, Shirley Ballas, instead.

“I’ve never seen anything quite so beautifully choreographed in my entire life,” she declared.

Sarah Millican returns for a two-night Derngate stay (Jan 24 & 25) with Late Bloomer, and plenty of people want to hear her discussing her erm, cracking rack and lady garden. It’s all sold out.

The ‘80s Show (Derngate, Jan 26) will take you on a journey of nostalgia to the times when things were fun.

Remember those days?!

Britain’s mostsuccessful dance group, Diversity, bring their Supernova show to the venue (Jan 29-31).

You know who they are and what they do, and their routines get more wow-some with each tour, as we can verify. You’ll be in for a real treat.

They are supporting The Trussell Trust, so please take along some non-perishable food to the date, and the trust will distribute it to people trapped in poverty. Raid the cupboard – a tin of soup, a tin or carrots, a bag of pasta...every little helps.

Follow the yellow brick road to The Old Savoy and take your seats for a full-length ballet adaptation of that classic among classics, The Wizard of Oz (January 26).

It’s family friendly, so it’s a great way to introduce youngsters to the joy of classical ballet. Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, and not forgetting Toto, will remind you why there’s no place like home.

> To book: Royal, & Derngate: royalandderngate.co.uk The Old Savoy: theoldsavoy.co.uk

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

43

WHATS ON

#WhatsOnPulse Vintage Stony Festival Monday, January 1, 9.30am-2pm Annual New Year’s Day vintage car and motorcycle gathering, including ‘one minutes noise’ at midday with a cacophony of engines.

Va-va vroom: Admission free for drivers and spectators, but donations to Willen Hospice are welcomed.

2:22 A Ghost Story Friday, January 5 – Saturday, January 13 The new stage phenomenon stops off in Northampton. Secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear!

Spooky times: royalandderngate.co.uk Swamped! Featuring The Ogretones Saturday, January 6, 8pm An Ogre-loaded club night celebrating the film Shrek with an eight-piece live band and DJs. Shrek to it: thecraufurdarms.com

Pasadena Roof Orchestra - Jan 10

Spine chilling - 2.22 A Ghost Story - from Jan 5

Bletchley Vegan Market Saturday, January 6, 10.30am-4pm An event which brings together a huge variety of vegan street food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, sustainable chandlers, zerowaste champions and more.

Plant based ace: veganmarkets.co.uk Denton & District Gardening Club Monday, January 8, 7.30pm Tom Cole will be talking about ‘Growing Vegetables in Containers’ at Denton Village Hall, Vicarage Lane, Denton NN7 1DT Visitors £3, also raffle and refreshments Dig deep: Call 01604 890875 for more info.

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January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

WHATS ON

Bletchley Blues Club Tuesday, January 9 January is a difficult month, so it’s just a fiver to get in for this musical event, though if you want to give more, that’s fine.

Any profits for the night will go to the club’s Blues in Schools project.

Still got the blues: bletchleybluesclub.uk The Pasadena Roof Orchestra Wednesday, January 10, 7.30pm The PRO return with a sparkling selection of their best-loved music and songs, including classics from Irving Berlin and Cole Porter, as well as electrifying hot jazz from the likes of Fletcher Henderson and Duke Ellington.

Top hat and tails: royalandderngate.co.uk

Miles Hunt Saturday, January 13 The Wonder Stuff frontman returns to Northampton for a career spanning set – and there are 37 years of activity to choose from.

Dizzy: sbdpromotions.com Milton Keynes Record Fair Sunday, January 14, midday- 4pm Vinyl continues to go from strength to strength, and this is the place to head if you are looking for a gem, or simply want to browse the racks. Entry is free.

Like a record, baby: thecraufurdarms.com

Carl Hutchinson – Watch Till The End Friday, January 12, 7.30pm Prepare to be dazzled by the UK comedy scene’s best kept secret as the Geordie man returns with a brand new show.

At the mic: royalandderngate.co.uk

Discovery Stroll: Stanton Low Park Tuesday, January 16, 2pm A Parks Trust led Discover Stroll to explore a new park, with explanations about some of the key features and the area’s history.

The walk will last for around an hour, dress appropriately.

Step up: theparkstrust.com

The Christians Friday, January 12 The Christians were a hit producing machine in the 80s and 90s, Forgotten Town, Ideal World, Harvest for the World, What’s in a Word, Hooverville, Words, Father, The Bottle and many more, and they sound every bit as great today. Go fill your ears up.

Born Again: stables.org

Trevor ‘Babajack’ Steger Trio Tuesday, January 16, 7.30pm Trevor’s music is influenced by his passion for early rural Blues and rhythmic African roots. His style of slide guitar, harp playing and songwriting earnt him UK Blues Act of The Year 2023 in the UK Blues Awards.

Slide along: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Carl Hutchinson is bringing the laughs to Royal & Derngate - Jan 12

Dean Friedman in concert Thursday, January 18, 7.30pm Friedman will perform songs from his four decade-long career, with plenty of familiar moments including Ariel and Lucky Stars.

On song: stantonburytheatre.co.uk Wilson & Wakeman Thursday, January 18 Damien has released a heap of solo albums and spent two years as the principal playing the lead in Les Miserables, while Adam is best known as the keyboard and guitar player with Ozzy Osbourne and also works with his father Rick Wakeman. Can You Leave The Light On Longer? Stables.org Kites Collective Friday, January 19, 8pm The band will be playing a mix of folk and acoustic rock music at The Song Loft Session, happening at York House, London Road,Stony Stratford. Stony Words: stonywords.org.uk Bat Sabbath Friday, January 19 Cancer Bats returns to The Craufurd Arms, this time with their celebration of the music of Black Sabbath. It will be loud.

Fairies Wear Boots: thecraufurdarms.com Guz Khan Live Friday, January 19 This loveable, funny guy is known for bringing his big-screen persona and BAFTAnominated hilarity to the stand-up stage.

MK Theatre that will benefit from his smile inducing material this month. Try for returns, he’s a popular chap. Man Like Mobeen: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Antiques Centre

Building 1, The Royal Ordnance Depot, Weedon Bec, NN7 4PS

OPEN: Wed to Mon 10am-4pm, CLOSED: Tues Facebook: @vintiqueltd Instagram: vintique.limited T: 01327 341 980 E: info@vintique.co W: vintique.co

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

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WHATS ON

Handbag Heaven Club Night Saturday, January 20, 7pm A night of Old School disco hosted by Radio Northampton’s Bernie Keith with four hours of tunes.

Havin’ it: theolddavoy.co.uk Love and Information Saturday, January 20, 7pm, Sunday, January 21, 3pm Drama Llamas are back in Stony Library with Love and Information by Caryl Churchill, as part of Stony Words.

With 57 one-scene playlets and countless characters, this play explores ideas around love, communication, memory and philosophy. Someone can’t get a signal.

Someone won’t answer the door. Someone put an elephant on the stairs….

This in-the-round production is bizarre, moving, and darkly funny, and will stir up some ideas and questions you’ll want to talk about for a long while afterwards.

Wordy wonderful: wegottickets.com Bob Harris & Colin Hall: The Songs The Beatles Gave Away Sunday, January 21, 8pm Join BBC’s Bob Harris and author and music journalist Colin Hall as they sit down to talk about their love and appreciation of The Beatles, including rare archive from Bob’s collection of interviews with Lennon & McCartney.

Music masters: stables.org The Joe Nethercote Band Tuesday, January 23, 7.30pm One of the Blues Club friends and great supporter of the club has put together his own band, guaranteed to include some of the names and faces you know.

Blues times: bletchleybluesc.ub.uk Nigel Wearne Thursday, January 25, 8.45pm Hailing from the deep south of Australia, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Wearne cites influences including Nick Cave, Tom Waits and Rickie Lee Jones.

The Reckoning: stables.org Elvana: Elvis fronted Nirvana Friday, January 26, 7.30pm-10.30pm Come as you are, but be ready to leave the Roadmender all shook up after this lively performance of madness and music.

Jailhouse Spirit: theroadmender.com The Wizard of Oz Friday, January 26, 7.30pm A two act, full-length, ballet adaptation of the iconic tale by L. Frank Baum, told through the magic of classical dance.

Follow the yellow brick road: theoldsavoy.co.uk 46

Back to Bacharach Tour 2024 Saturday, January 27, 7.30pm-9.30pm Celebrating the timeless masterpieces of The Hitmakers behind one of the greatest American songbooks of the 20th century.

Magic Moments: theoldsavoy.co.uk Cirque Enchantment Saturday, January 27 A stunning family show with superb choreography, breathtaking live vocals and mesmerising circus performers. Escape winter with this dynamic fairytale.

The Show Must Go On: royalandderngate.co.uk We Call It Jungle Saturday, January 27, 3pm – 10pm The finest jungle sounds and a high end production with the best in jungle, drum & bass, reggae and dub.

Blowout: theroadmender.com Megaslam Wrestling: 2024 Live Tour-de-force Sunday, January 28, 3.30pm-6pm Join the action as team Megaslam battles it out with Team Nasty in a series of edge-of-your-seat matches to engage the whole family.

Foam fingers at the ready: theoldsavoy.co.uk

I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas any more. The Wizard of Oz at The Old Savoy - Jan 26

Diane Purkiss - English Food Monday, January 29, 7pm A journey through the centuries looking at the development of recipes and the rituals for mealtimes with Diane, a Professor of English Literature at the University of Oxford. Your meals and eating habits will never be the same again.

Stony Words: stonywords.org.uk Skinny Living Tuesday, January 30 From Wakefield to The Black Prince for the indie-soul fusionists who have racked up more than 60 million streams, which is pretty darn impressive.

Living large: sbdpromotions.com Edward Scissorhands Tuesday, January 30 – Saturday, February 3 Based on the classic Tim Burton movie and featuring the hauntingly beautiful music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies, Bourne and his New Adventures Company return to this witty, bittersweet story of an incomplete boy left alone in a strange new world.

Tiptoe in: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

PUZZLES

View from the Far Kerb

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

Made it!

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f you have been reading and following the trials and tribulations of the O’Hara Household, the title says it all. Repeated attempts had been made to secure and complete a sale of our property but many had failed: some for apparently nefarious reasons on the part of potential buyers. However, we finally made it to celebrate Christmas and see in the New Year!

Our first night consisted of hanging clothing from a bedroom curtain pole to preserve our modesty and avoid Red Light District performances through unshielded windows.

There were no unexpected puddles or surprise packages from the dogs in the mornings and they were far happier with the garden than me due to the rear being surprisingly dark. Despite a very bright camping head lamp, mornings and evenings were always awkward. Bulkhead lights were required, as per our old place.

With power to the garden being easily available from the garage, suitable wall mounted lamps ought to have been simple, but drilling that first hole in a new home is never easy… Still, there are options and it is just a case of determining which is best: once I have done one of the multitudes of other things needing to be done as part of a move!

Just ahead of the planned completion date, our car developed the habit of dying if parked for more than a day. No modern car needs to be run daily to keep the battery from running flat, especially when that battery is new. Both it and the alternator were tested and given a clean bill of health.

Something was clearly draining the battery overnight. The mystery had threatened a car that wouldn’t start on The Big Day when it arrived.

Due to previous house selling fiascos, our finances were such that having a car mechanic search for what may be an elusive short circuit, was a no-no. Instead, I borrowed a multimeter (mine was already packed somewhere in a box) and checked for current flowing when the car ignition was off.

Our first night consisted of hanging clothing from a bedroom curtain pole to preserve our modesty and avoid Red Light District performances through unshielded windows.”

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As the battery health monitor lead for the stop-start feature was connected to the negative side of the battery, I decided to start there. For those who are not savvy in matters of car-related electrical magic, the fact is that modern cars draw a small current to maintain settings in radios, trip-meters, onboard computers, and all sorts of fancy gadgets – even when the ignition is off. So, I expected to see something. I did and it was tiny. Then I checked the isolated battery health monitoring lead and measured a substantial power flow.

The immediate solution was to permanently disconnect it. Now the stop-start is unavailable, but at least the car no longer dies if left unused for a day. A simple bodge, if not a true fix. Given that the annoying function was usually turned off at the dashboard when driving in town, it isn’t missed.

But, as we have finally moved, that is more than enough reason to not care!

Clues Across 1. Position indicator 5. Focal points 7. Irritating to the skin 8. Foundation 9. Constrictor snakes 10. Leaser 11. Pill 13. Chilled 14. Roamed (over) 18. State of neglect 21. Remain

Phil O’Hara

Solutions to Sudoku and Quick Crossword can be found on page 48

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22. Said yes to 24. Neck warmer 25. Pimply condition 26. Church of Rome head 27. Long crest 28. Begins golf, ... off 29. Sums up Clues Down 1. Gangster 2. Bend to pray 3. Turn left or ...

4. Disfigured 5. Cross-breeds 6. Sportsmen’s jackets 12. Needle hole 15. Newspaper item 16. Hot springs 17. Imperious requests 19. Annoy 20. Unlimited 22. Proposal 23. Meat jelly

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

47

Your stars

Looking into 2024 As we embark on the journey of 2024, the celestial tapestry weaves a compelling narrative of change and opportunity. Our horoscopes for the forthcoming year paint a vibrant picture of transformation, driven by the dynamic movements of planets. This is your ultimate guide to navigate the cosmic currents with insight and optimism.

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strologers often encounter challenges in accurately predicting specific events, a difficulty primarily attributed to the intricate interplay of planetary energies, which offers a myriad of potential outcomes. However, a significant and observable shift in the astrological landscape is anticipated in 2024, presenting a notable departure from previous years. This change is primarily marked by the movement of the substantial outer planets, specifically those positioned beyond Jupiter, which are now observed to have ‘gone direct’. In astrological terms, this phenomenon indicates that from our Earth-based perspective, these planets appear to be advancing forwards through the zodiac, contrasting their earlier retrograde motion. This perceived change in direction suggests a potential for tangible and positive progress in global events, steering away from the recurring themes and issues experienced throughout 2023.

into the same zodiac sign. This celestial alignment is particularly significant in astrological terms. Pluto, symbolising transformation and rebirth, traditionally heralds profound and sweeping changes with each transition into a new sign. Given Pluto’s prolonged 240year orbit around the Sun, its previous stay in Aquarius during 1778 was a period marked by monumental societal upheavals. These included the American Revolution, the abolition of slavery, the beginnings of the French and Industrial Revolutions, the publication of Mary Wollstonecraft’s pioneering work on women’s rights, and the dawning of the Enlightenment era.

Looking further back, Pluto’s presence in Aquarius during the reign of King Henry VIII of England played a crucial role in the country’s separation from Catholicism. This significant historical event laid the groundwork for the modern British nation-state.

A pivotal moment in 2024 is Pluto’s entry into Aquarius These historical precedents strongly suggest that on January 21st, coinciding with the Sun’s ingress Pluto’s upcoming return to Aquarius might once Your Own astrological Forecast for 2024

PUZZLE

SOLUTIONS

You are bound to be affected personally by some, if not all, of the massive changes taking place this year. Not everyone will be equally affected on a personal level, but you will certainly feel it if you are an Aquarius, Leo, Scorpio, or Taurus.

An astrological reading of your birth chart can help you understand how these changes might affect you. To really understand what they mean for you during 2024, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation with me. This is completely specific to

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you and your life. It will illuminate many things that you may not have considered up to now, and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year.

My prices for chart readings remain the same as they have been for the past five years: starting at £67 for an hour on Zoom or Skype. Please visit www.astroguidance.co.uk for more details and to book a session. You can also text or WhatsApp me on 07866 727743 or email me at howpark@aol.com for more information.

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From a predictive standpoint, I foresee a surge in innovative technological solutions being developed and implemented to address pressing ecological issues. This period is likely to highlight the effectiveness and necessity of collaborative efforts and partnerships over isolated or individualistic endeavors. The year 2024 presents itself as a time ripe for experimentation, adaptation and a collective willingness to venture into uncharted territories.

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The astrological trends of 2024 will become more evident around mid-February when a notable congregation of planets – Pluto, Venus, Mars, Mercury and the Sun – will all be positioned in Aquarius. According to esteemed astrologer Angela Cornish, this unique alignment is expected to ignite a fervent struggle for individual and collective freedom, equality, and autonomy against established authorities and norms. Aquarius, a sign often linked with humanitarianism, liberty and egalitarian ideals, might also unveil its more complex facets, particularly in relation to technological advancements and the growing concerns surrounding the impact of artificial intelligence. These themes are expected to become major points of discussion and deliberation in 2024.

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again be the catalyst for sweeping transformations in societal structures, ideologies, and perceptions. This impending era is perceived as an opportune time for resolving longstanding conflicts and fostering the emergence of innovative and fresh perspectives. In this context, clinging to past paradigms and traditions appears increasingly redundant and impractical, as the collective momentum is decisively shifting towards embracing an uncertain yet potentially transformative future. This transition, albeit uncomfortable, necessitates a profound and collective paradigm shift in our thoughts and behaviors.

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January 2024 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

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Send your stories to: nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

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January ‘24

HOWARD PARKER

THE ASTRO-GUIDE

The month ahead for your sign CAPRICORN

TAURUS

VIRGO

It’s the last gasp for you Capricornians at the new moon in your sign on 11th January. If you’ve been paying attention, you should have seen the signs that the future is going to look a lot different from now on, so you will have been rearranging things in preparation. This is big and radical, so desperate measures may already have been necessary. Good luck with it!

Uranus is the last big planet to go direct at the end of this month, and it’s going to be powerful. The old routines won’t wash now, but you have a little time – until about May - before you have to adjust to very new realities. Just make sure you don’t just wait for things to happen. You have to work towards the changes you want to see.

There is a dissolving energy present this month as Neptune turns direct, which can, ironically, either create complete confusion, as if a fog has descended, or it may indicate a certain clarity emerging as the fog lifts. It is hard to be sure of your ground, admittedly, but you will soon start to detect new ways of doing things that will change a lot of the ways you think, particularly creatively.

November 23 – December 22

AQUARIUS

November 23 – December 22

Your moment starts now. Are you ready for it? I hope you’re not just one of those rebellious Aquarians who is automatically against everything that is ‘normal’ because the new normal is going to be very Aquarian indeed. An interesting irony this, and it may well be a case of putting your money where your mouth is. Let me know…!

PISCES

November 23 – December 22

Neptune is now moving forward in your sign, so one of two things can happen. Either you are completely lost in the fog and have no idea what direction you are heading, or it is lifting, and to your relief, things are not as bad as you thought or feared. If you can stay in the boat and not get washed overboard, you may feel still seasick, but at least you are surviving!

ARIES

November 23 – December 22

It’s time to attach yourself to new ideas, humanitarian aims, and noble ambitions. The Aquarian energy is strong but needs your fire to make change happen.

You know instinctively what is right, ethical, and honourable, so attach yourself to groups that you love and get things moving in the right direction.

November 23 – December 22

GEMINI

LIBRA

Geminis will start to feel at home quite quickly with the new Aquarian flavour to life that is unfolding.

There will be so much to talk about and so many new ideas flying about that you will be in your element, particularly next month. However, it will be hard to focus, so try to retain at least a sense of stability and detached observation.

Taking practical measures to resolve past hurts and obstacles is favoured at this new moon in Capricorn, but it won’t necessarily be easy. Taking things one step at a time, though, will enable you to make progress that you will be able to sustain. This is the approach to take now, so don’t go looking for miracle cures at this time.

November 23 – December 22

November 23 – December 22

CANCER

The new moon in Capricorn will challenge your sense of stability just as the whole applecart starts to look as if it’s going to be overturned. A lot of people are going to find life pretty difficult to adjust to in this mini age of Aquarius, so I’d say it’s best to accentuate the best virtues of humanity and work with that. ‘Be the change you want to see’.

LEO

November 23 – December 22

Jupiter promises more than it delivers sometimes, but it can assist you while it remains in your opposite sign of Taurus, as it does until the end of May. The Aquarian energies that characterize this new year may alarm you and rock your boat quite strongly now, so it is time to prepare yourself for the radical changes that this new period will bring.

SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 22

If you have been tempted to go it alone – don’t!

About 25 years of Aquarius in Pluto starts this month, so Leonine egos need to serve wider, more humanitarian intentions now. Make yourself useful to those who need your leadership skills and see what we can all achieve together. You may surprise yourself at how rewarding this can be.

for FREE on our local website

SCORPIO

November 23 – December 22

November 23 – December 22

Advertise your event Share your event, create a buzz and engage with a large local audience...

November 23 – December 22

A great time to travel or spend time with people of other cultures while Venus is in your sign! But do it before the 23rd because then it moves into boring old Capricorn. However, the bigger picture is exciting now, and your love of adventure will help you to see the opportunities it holds. Your main risk is clinging to old ideas and opinions because these will be challenged big time!

Love to eat out?

Stay up to date with the best food reviews and hottest places to go in Northamptonshire.

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | January 2024

49

Film Reviews

by Jordan Adcock

Image: https://www.hindustantimes.com

FILM OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4/5

Suzume is the kind of palate cleanser that reminds you what animation (or more specifically Japanese anime these days – see the Wish review below for more on that) can uniquely create compared to live action. Screened in cinemas earlier this year and now streaming online on Crunchyroll, it’s a truly modern fairytale, not just with its visually arresting journey and perilous sequences but with the coming-of-age story it tells along the way as the heroine confronts her grief and trauma while stepping out into the wider world.

The film follows (who else?) Suzume, a high-school girl in Kyushu whose curiosity leads her to a mysterious solitary door which, when opened, unleashes a terrible destructive force. She suddenly must trek across Japan to close all these doors before the devastation spreads, aided by a

THE HUNGER GAMES: THE BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS & NAPOLEON SNAKES Star Rating: 3.5/5

Star Rating: 2.5/5

How could a Hunger Games prequel about the series’ main villain really work, nearly a decade after the original series ended and with it enthusiasm for films based on dystopian Young Adult novels?

Surprisingly well, though don’t expect the tangible danger of Katniss Everdeen’s trials in Panem. There’s still Hunger Games of course, involving children forced to kill each other, along with a garish post-apocalyptic aesthetic and names ripped from an ancient Roman glossary. But Coriolanus Snow’s struggles are much more political as he mentors his irrepressible tribute from District 12, well-acted by both Tom Blyth and Rachel Zegler respectively. While overlong, it’s impressive how much it stays focused on his rise, fall and rise again despite firmly trading in this series’ main selling points. ✪

Cinematic veteran Ridley Scott directing a historical epic of Napoleon, played

by Joaquin Phoenix, reads like a plan worthy of the French emperor himself – it’s a shame that the reductive script proves unworthy. It hurtles through decades of history, determined to cram in as many scenes of war, strife and sex as it can. But without a narrative throughline to string it all together, it’s a load of expensive scenes that fail to explore who this man was and why he was such an incredible leader. It leaves Phoenix adrift and unable to settle on a persona for his Napoleon, not helped by too much meandering drama with his wife Josephine (Vanessa Kirby), nor the actor’s age making him feel miscast in the earlier stages. ✪

young man named Sota. Helpfully, he’s a ‘closer’ of these doors – that is, until he unhelpfully gets turned into a three-legged chair.

Yes, you read that right – not that it stops Sota. The thrill of Suzume is how it recreates Japan, not just through stunning backgrounds and cityscapes but through impeccably mundane everyday details, and seamlessly combines it with fantasy magic like portal doors and chase scenes involving a chair intrepidly leaping and running in every environment. That the filmmakers would have worked out how to credibly animate that is by itself very charming, fortunately the whole film charms as well. Some of the many characters Suzume encounters leave more lasting impressions than others but it’s hardly episodic, taking multiple unexpected and rewarding turns which enrich Suzume’s personal arc. ✪

OPERATION FORTUNE

WISH

Star Rating: 2/5

Star Rating: 2/5

Another film now streaming after a brief cinema run is director Guy Ritchie’s international spy actioner, where Jason Statham leads the mission to disrupt the sale of deadly weapons tech. They rope in a handsome movie star to help their ruse, and Josh Hartnett’s charisma livens some dreary, if well-heeled, proceedings with bored-looking actors. Statham brings the expected brawn and gruff tones, but saying it’s merely routine would be too kind. It doesn’t so much build to a climax as canter between destinations with guns and fistfights before tastefully stopping short of two hours. The film was reportedly kept on the shelf for at least a year, owing to its Ukrainian gangster villains making it poorly timed, but its overwhelming mediocrity was surely another reason. ✪

It’s bad that on Disney’s centenary year, you’ll wish upon a star for them to make good films again. Following a recent poor run for their animation arm, quality and box office-wise, Wish tries to be so quintessentially Disney – young trailblazing princess, vaguely medieval kingdom, magic spells, a greedy sorcerer villain, cute animal sidekick – it fails to bear a strong identity of its own. Unless you mention the ‘hybrid’ animated style of 3D visuals and 2D outlines, which like everything else here comes across as half-hearted and uninventive. Chris Pine voicing the king who keeps people’s wishes for them is the small highlight in a film that’s so straightforward, with any edges firmly filed off, that even the musical numbers feel like they’re only filling time. ✪

You can follow Jordan on Twitter (@JordanReview) and read his blog at www.reviewsreflections.wordpress.com 50

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