hat a great moment to see Saints Rugby Club celebrating as winners of the Gallagher Premiership with the Mayor. The open-top bus parade from Franklin’s Gardens to the town centre was quite a sight!
If you ever need reassuring that the future is in safe hands, you’ll want to read the story of teenager Josh Cox. It’s very moving to hear how he’s responded to his father’s cancer diagnosis with fundraising and music.
We can finally say ‘Hello’ to summer now and it’s packed with activities and events you won’t want to miss. We’ve selected highlights of the thrilling things to do and see for children, families and friends. Just take a look and start planning your summer fun.
For example, on 14 July, you can step back in time for the Battle of Northampton Day at Delapré Abbey. Or you can head to the water for the ‘Mammoth’ obstacle course at Aqua Parcs – no wonder it received MK’s Top Attraction award. Northampton is looking lovely with hundreds a flower displays and there are plenty of giggles at the Comedy Crate this month. For foodies there’s Bite Street at the County Cricket Ground and Sophie’s Street Feast will be back in Milton Keynes in September. If you enjoy the Great Outdoors there are plenty of parks and farms to visit and Northampton’s wonderful Balloon Festival at the Racecourse in August.
What’s more, wildlife lovers could win free tickets to Woburn Safari Park. Just email us the answers to some easy questions before the end of the month. Or, if speed is more your style, scan the QR code on page 26 to enter our competition. You could win tickets to the Silverstone Festival in August. There are so many things going on – enjoy as much as you can!
Read previous editions online: www.pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 01604 935300 nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 17 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks MK46 5EA Connect with us on socials: /pulsemagazines @pulsemagazines nnpulsemagazine
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The Mayor of Northampton has congratulated the town’s Saints Rugby Club after their win in the Gallagher Premiership final last month, which saw them become the champions of the English Rugby Union.
The team’s 25-21 win over Bath at Twickenham marks their second Premier League title, celebrated with an open-top bus victory parade from Franklin’s Gardens to Northampton town centre.
Large crowds gathered outside the Guildhall to cheer the winning team, who were greeted by the Mayor of Northampton Cllr Paul Joyce, the Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council Cllr Jo Gifford and the Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, Cllr Adam Brown.
Addressing Saints players and supporters, Cllr Paul Joyce said: “I stand here today as a very proud Mayor, celebrating the team’s remarkable achievement of winning the Premiership trophy and being the Premiership Champions.
“This was a season to remember and a fitting finale for our Captain fantastic, Courtney Lawes.
“This win means so much to our town. We are now the number one rugby town in the country. I’d like to say just one last thing… Northampton Saints, Premiership Champions of England, well done lads… come on you Saints!”
Councillor Joyce later added:
“The atmosphere was fantastic with so many people from the town gathered together in celebration alongside the Saints players. It’s been a while since we’ve had a homecoming parade of this scale and the sense of pride was inspiring.
“It was also really special to watch Courtney Lawes and Alex Waller speak to the fans ahead of their departure from the club – what a high to end upon!”
The
Oakley explains: ‘Our watchwords are
Integrity
Cynthia Spencer Hospice is encouraging the Northampton community to consider donating time to help out at its
Following the success of last month’s Colour Run at Overstone Park, the hospice is calling for more people to come forward to help at similar events.
Cynthia Spencer Hospice has a full calendar of exciting events this year, including Cycle for Cynthia in September, as well as a need for volunteers to help with smaller collections in supermarkets and community collection tins.
Anita Frith, Director of Income Generation and Communications at Cynthia Spencer Hospice, said: “Volunteering is one of the most rewarding things you could ever do with your time.
“Whatever your situation or age, taking the time to volunteer can enrich your own life while helping the lives of others.
“Our volunteers are the lifeblood of our organisation, supporting patients, hosting events, raising money, highlighting our work and simply being a friendly face in difficult times.”
fundraisers. Now, they hope that the call for additional support will encourage more volunteers to come forward.
Back in February, the hospice launched an inspiring campaign to highlight the many different ways that people can contribute to the cause.
The Make a Difference, Your Way campaign looks at how people can support the charity in a way that resonates with them whether that be by volunteering their time, donating or fundraising money, or spreading the word.
In fundraising there are vacancies for community ambassadors, administrators and collection tin volunteers.
Or you can become a vital cog in the engine room of retail operations as a warehouse volunteer, shop assistant or weekend warrior – who sort preloved clothing for resale in hospice shops.
Stay up to date with the best places to go and the most epic events happening across Northamptonshire. Scan the code to sign up
A peaceful 15 acre woodland setting in which to spend the day, or bring a tent or caravan. Enjoy the heated pool, various sports, clubhouse, play area, sauna, BBQ, sun lawns & socials with meals & live music. Your membership will allow you unlimited attendance throughout the year. Feel at ease in a contained, safe environment, top up your Vitamin D levels and learn to relax. We have the naturist lifestyle for the whole family, just north of Bedford.
stairlift was fitted really quickly & we were very happy with the
Reconditioned Stairlift from £1200
Curious about unlocking the wealth tied up in your home? Wilson Browne solicitors can guide you through the complexities of equity release. Learn about the benefits, drawbacks and important regulations to see if this option is right for your future.
Eager to unlock wealth that’s built up in your property, but unsure whether it’s a good idea for you and your family? With equity release, it’s essential you have a clear understanding of the potential benefits and pitfalls of your chosen scheme.
Fortunately, equity-release schemes have high levels of safeguarding in place and must follow a strict code of conduct in order to protect consumer interests.
These strict regulations are set out by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) with the oversight of the Equity Release Council (ERC) and must be followed by all equity release scheme providers and advisors.
Like any loan arrangement, there’s likely to be both pros and cons, and equity release is no exception.
While the exact advantages and disadvantages will vary depending upon the type of equity release scheme you choose and your individual circumstances, our experts can give you an idea of what to expect.
Receive money to spend as you please With the money you release from your home, you could make some much-needed home improvements, go on a holiday, pave the way for a more comfortable retirement, or financially support a child or grandchild through education.
This lump sum is tax-free
As equity release is a type of loan, it’s not taxable. This means it’s free of income tax and the money will only be taxable if you invest the money, for example, by putting it in a savings account.
Retain ownership of your home
In many cases, individuals that decide to release equity are keen to remain in their current home either for a significant period of time or until they pass away. With equity release, you don’t have to worry about the time, money, and stress of selling your beloved home to generate more money.
Your estate will be worth less Equity release will affect how much your estate is worth as you’re essentially borrowing money from your estate. This loan, as well as any interest, must be paid off when you die, often through the sale of the property.
Could be more expensive in the long run
In some cases, equity release can be more expensive over time than simply downsizing to a more affordable property. Lifetime mortgages, for example, tend to have much higher interest rates than standard mortgage arrangements.
Early repayment charges (ERCs) may apply
Like most loans, equity release schemes are often subject to ERCs if you want to pay back the loan early. This can make
equity release schemes more costly for those that are eager to repay the borrowed money.
Ultimately, equity release can be a viable option for many eligible individuals, but the answer to this question will largely depend on your specific circumstances. It’s therefore vital that you seek expert financial and legal advice before committing to your desired equity release scheme.
Offering fixed and transparent fees, direct access to your legal team, and expert advice regarding a wide variety of equity release schemes and lenders, Wilson Browne Solicitors can help you to transform your equity into money with ease. Give us a call we can arrange your free initial consultation at your closest Wilson Browne Solicitors branch – we have offices in Leicester, Northampton, Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough and Higham Ferrers and Rushden.
All of us, at some point will need to rely on support from our local NHS. At Northamptonshire Health Charity, we raise money to make a difference for patients, their families, and the dedicated staff who care for them across the county.
By funding equipment, supporting ground breaking research, and improving facilities and staff areas, we support the NHS to go above and beyond.
You can say thank you for the NHS care you or a loved one have received by supporting Northamptonshire Health Charity, the only dedicated charity fundraising for Northampton General Hospital, Kettering General Hospital, and Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
There are so many ways to get involved, whether you are a thrill seeker or just want to make a difference:
Abseil - Take the Plunge and Help Change Lives We have the last few spots remaining for our abseiling challenge on 11 May at Tower
Square, where you can abseil down the 418-foot National Lift Tower, the world’s highest abseil tower. To find out more visit northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/abseil
Half Marathon – Run to Support a Good Cause If high-flying adventures aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to get involved while keeping your feet firmly on the ground; join us for the Amazing Northampton Half Marathon on September 15. Choose from the half marathon, half marathon relay, or 3 miles race. northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/run
Organise an Event – Put the FUN into Fundraising Why not organise an event for a worthy cause? Fundraising events are vital to not only raise money but for raising awareness of the charity too. Speak to our team today to see how you could organise a fundraising event. Have fun doing something you love all while supporting Northamptonshire Health Charity northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/getinvolved.
Join Us - Be a Part of Something Bigger
Whether you choose to run, jump, climb, or just simply give, your contribution matters. Together, we can support and improve our NHS in Northamptonshire. Visit northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/donate to give today.
Call: 01604 626927
Email: greenheart@nhcf.co.uk www.nhcf.co.uk
Connor Williams Senior Legal Executive
Moving in together is an important and exciting step in a relationship. Whether you are renting or buying a place together, it is a commitment that is financial as well as emotional. Unlike almost any other financial commitment, cohabiting is one that you are able to do without any formal agreement.
‘While the absence of formality has its attractions, it is important to note that the lack of legal clarity and protection can be problematic for a couple if a dispute should arise in the future,’ says Connor Williams in the family law team with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston. ‘When a cohabiting couple separates, they are often surprised to find that there is no clear legal framework to help unravel any disagreements.’
If your partner moves into your home, which you legally own in your sole name (or perhaps with other family members), while they will not benefit from an automatic right to a share of the property, they could acquire some rights, known as a ‘beneficial interest’.
A cohabitation agreement is a sound way of safeguarding this asset, as it can confirm that your partner will not gain any legal interest or rights in your property by living there, even if they pay towards the bills or any mortgage.
4. Clarity over how bills will be paid
29 Billing Road Northampton NN1 5DQ 01604 622101
18 Brooklands Court Kettering Venture Park Kettering NN15 6FD 01536 523434
bmtclaw.co.uk
Connor Williams explains how it is important to consider how to put safeguards in place and outlines six reasons why you may benefit from a cohabitation agreement.
1. Escaping the ‘common law marriage’ trap
Having heard the phrase ‘common law marriage’ being used by older couples or on the media, you might think that a long-term cohabiting gives you all the legal rights enjoyed by a married couple or civil partners.
This is false and nothing more than a myth. There is no such legal concept as a ‘common law marriage’ and, regardless of the length of the relationship, cohabiting couples have no legal financial obligations towards each other if they split up.
2. Obtaining clarity on your legal position
Given that there is no unified law governing what happens when a cohabiting couple splits up, a cohabitation agreement will give you a useful understanding of what your rights (if any) are.
There is no automatic 50/50 split of anything. Your lawyer will consider your personal objectives and the law, and they will help you think through important matters such as:
• what happens to any property;
• whether or not to expect financial assistance from your ex-partner; and
• how any children of the family will be provided for.
3. Protecting a property you own
Moving in together does not necessarily mean that you are making a lifelong commitment just yet, or that you wish to combine all your assets at this time.
As with any shared household, it is sensible to agree on who will be paying for what and to what extent. You will want to have clarity on how much you each agree to contribute towards the bills.
5. When one of you is unable to work
When one person is unable to work, a reduction in income can put a great deal of strain on a relationship. In some cases, this might be something you plan together, such as having or adopting children; but it could also be unplanned, such as having accident or serious illness.
6. Confidence and reassurance
Undoubtedly, entering into a cohabitation agreement will provide peace of mind because you have taken steps to organise the logistics of your relationship and you know exactly where you stand on key issues. It will free up time and headspace, allowing you to focus on other areas of your life.
How can we help?
It is never too late to enter into a cohabitation agreement. Whether you are thinking of moving in with your partner or have been living with them for several years already, it is a good idea to explore your options.
If you are interested in finding out more and how to go about it, please contact Connor Williams in the family law team on 01604 622101 or email connor.williams@bmtclaw.co.uk
Get ready to embrace summer, whatever the weather! Our annual guide, Hello Summer is bursting with 18 pages of thrilling things to do and see across Milton Keynes, Bucks, Beds and Northamptonshire. Whether you’re with kids, family, or friends, there’s something exciting for everyone. Explore Hello Summer and start planning your summer fun.
He’s a Rascal and he’s heading our way! Dizzee will be gracing the grounds of Delapré Abbey (August 9). The super successful MC and rapper is a grime pioneer who has spent the past two decades chart-bothering and shaking up the scene – his first elpee, Boy in da Corner took the prestigious Mercury Award.
Earlier this year, he unleashed the essential Don’t Take It Personal LP, which reaffirmed him as a genre leader, with another victory lap on what is one of rap music’s defining legacies.
A day later (August 10) and Summertime Live returns to the venue with a one-day festival headlined by Classic Ibiza, with two stages of music and DJs to get lost in.
Over in Bedford, Welsh wonder Tom Jones is back (July 4) and this consummate professional is ready with an armoury of classics like It’s Not Unusual, She’s A Lady and Sexbomb
Tom has been a music staple for more than six decades, and during that time he has racked up sales in excess of 100 million!
A Knighthood, many BRIT awards, a Silver Clef Award and a Hitmaker Award make that mantelpiece a busy place in his abode.
Tom will be supported by Beverley Knight, Stone Foundation and STORRY
Pete Tong returns with Ibiza Classics (July 5). The electronic dance music pioneer has committed himself to transforming dance music into a global genre, and what a great job he has made of it!
Joining him at the Classics bash will be Jules Buckley, The Essential Orchestra, Groove Armada, Arielle Free and Five Past 5
James (July 6) celebrated 40 years of music making in 2023, and the band aren’t slowing any, but they are offering something different for this performance, which will be orchestral, following on from last year’s anniversary opus, which reimagined their music with a 22-piece, orchestra and choir.
Expect a transformative musical experience where their hits will be elevated by dynamic layers of those aforementioned orchestral and choral additions.
One time Smiths guitarist turned solo hitmaker, Johnny Marr is also on the bill, along with Inspiral Carpets, The Magic Numbers and Tom A. Smith
The ridiculously talented Nile Rodgers and CHIC (July 7) will wrap up a mammoth weekend for the town.
The multiple Grammy Award winning songwriter, composer, producer and guitarist has worked with Sister Sledge, Diana Ross, David Bowie, Madonna and Duran Duran, and he’s had some none-too shabby collaborations with artists like Daft Punk and Beyonce, not forgetting his own deliveries like Le Freak, which was the biggest selling single in the history of Atlantic Records.
Oh to have a pinch of that man’s talent.
A non-stop dance fest is a given, and it will start early – support comes from DJ Spoony, Deco and Sophie Ellis-Bextor
Go check in and get those tickets at smmrsessions.com
At The National Bowl in Milton Keynes, Reggae Land will be king on August 3 & 4 with more than 80 artists appearing across four stages, with headliners including UB40 featuring Ali Campbell.
Music aside, there will be a Reggae Flea market, fairground, Carnival Float stage and dancers, not to mention a Caribbean Food Village, and drinks galore in the Rum Shacks, Gin Bars and Caribbean cocktail bars.
Chase & Status (August 10) play their biggest ever headliner at the venue with support from artists including Andy C, Hedex B2B Bou and Casisdead
On August 11, the vibe will be different, but the buzz will be just as great when Yungblud brings his Bludfest to the venue.
Other artists on the bill include Lil Yachty, Soft Play, The Damned, Nessa Barrett, Lola Young and Jazmin Bean
“Bludfest will blur the lines of genre and destroy the limitation of imagination,” Yungblud promised.
Chester House Estate is getting into gear in anticipation of its Classic Car & Bike Show (July 13). If you love nostalgia and beautiful bodywork, this is the event for you with automotive elegance at its best.
From vintage motors to timeless motorcycles, the show will be an opportunity to learn about the craftsmanship, innovation and golden era of motoring.
Live entertainment and a selection of food vendors will also be present.
ABBA fans will be able to delight in the music of the Swedish superstars when the 21st Century ABBA Tribute arrives (July 14).
You know the soundtrack to expect, and this will be delivered with a full band in the otherwise tranquil setting of Chester House grounds – pack a picnic and enjoy the space with friends and family before reaching for your dancing shoes and moving to the smashes, thrashes and hits of Bjorn, Benny, Agnetha and Frida.
If you want more chart-bothering hits aired in the great outdoors, you are in luck – on July 28, the 21st Century Queen Tribute
Delapré Abbey invites you to step back in time for the Battle of Northampton Day (July 14) with tours of the battlefield, and you can learn about the pivotal moments from the 1460 clash and have the opportunity to engage with reenactors who will bring the era to vivid life.
You can even attend a medieval hawking show in the Walled Garden, a must-see display of medieval hunting birds in action.
On July 21, it will be canines, not birds that fill the space, with Delapré’s inaugural Doggy Dawdle – you get to walk, jog or run with your pooch at this doggy themed fun run. It’s not too strenuous either; choose from a one, two or three mile route. Will you go walkies or up the pace? Tails will wag.
An afternoon session of Princess fun is planned for August 3 and August 17, when the venue teams up with Kelly’s Princess Parties for an afternoon tea (with all the expected sandwiches, scones and treats), the opportunity to meet the Princesses and enjoy music, singing and dancing, games, Princess training, bubbles and photo time. Which little child wouldn’t enjoy this?
will have a setlist crammed with finery; from Keep Yourself Alive and Crazy Little Thing Called Love to We Will Rock You and the lesser-known Bohemian Rhapsody!
If you want to spice up your weekend, you could do worse than take a ticket for the Spice Girls tribute (August 23). Forget two become one, at this show, five become four, with Posh missing from the line-up but the remaining ladies will bring a fine line in 90s nostalgia.
If you still know how to bust the moves to Say You’ll Be There, Stop and Who Do You Think You Are, then you Wannabe in the audience for this!
Motown by Moonlight (August 26) will deliver the music of icons including Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes and Stevie Wonder. Motown magic, again with the option to picnic on site.
Chapterhouse Theatre Company will deliver a brand new take on the classic fairytale, Beauty and the Beast (August 29).
Away from music and theatre, Chester House Estate has opportunities to engage with Prehistoric Workshop sessions, starting with an introduction to Flint Knapping (August 2 & 3) and introduction to flax processing (August 16 & 17).
You will learn how to spin flax on the leg, be able to experiment with a range of drop spindles, and try your hand at spinning. Last up, on August 24, you are invited to a hafting workshop
Hafting is the process of attaching a stone or metal tool to a handle or strap. Explore the basics of flint-knapping, flax cordage-making, wood-working, and hafting with flint tools and tree-sap glue as you make your own flint sickle or bladed tool to take home.
> For the full listings visit chesterhouseestate.org
Dinosaurs in the Park (August 16 - September 1) will be a roar-some event, and one that is set to transform the grounds!
Look into the trees and discover the dinos hidden there. Marvel at the majestic Brachiosaurus, be wowed by the T-Rex and learn lots of fascinating facts courtesy of the Dinosaur Dentist.
A bouncy castle, face painting and fossil digging will add to the fun.
Once you’ve completed the trail, a fun zone will deliver lots of hands-on activities, including mini golf, soft play for the under 3’s, and a visit to the Palaeontological tent will deliver fossils and dinosaur dung. Kids will love this – and plenty of adults will, too!
> To book and for more information tap to delapreabbey.org
Summer’s here and it’s time to head to the water! Aqua Parcs on Willen Lake is back and so is its giant ‘Mammoth’ obstacle – colossal by name and by size!
Introduced to the 450-metre-long inflatable water park last year, the ‘Mammoth’ stands at 30ft tall and features a daring 20ft ‘cliff jump’ – making it ones of the biggest attractions in Milton Keynes.
Awarded MK’s Top Attraction 2023 at the MK Food & Leisure Awards, Aqua Parcs enters its 7th year at Willen Lake and will bring new features to the park for 2024. Split over three unique sections: Union, Aqua Glide and Airspace, visitors get a different experience at each area – all included in the one-hour session.
Aqua Parcs has also taken over the Open Water Swimming operations at Willen Lake
Around 500 beautiful hanging baskets and planters are now installed in Northampton town centre and the surrounding wards, bringing a splash of summer colour to the urban streets.
This annual planting scheme, known as ‘Northampton in Bloom’, is coordinated by Northampton Town Council and includes community-led and sustainable planting initiatives, such as using peat-free compost and perennial flowers, which will grow back year after year.
The council’s Climate Change Forum has led the way on introducing these sustainable planters, selecting plants not only for their sustainability, but also for their biodiversity value in attracting bees and providing a habitat for insects and birds.
An example of this planting can be seen in the recently restored St Katherine’s Gardens in Northampton town centre, where forum members worked with the Northampton BID and volunteers from local organisations including the Royal British Legion, to plant beds with a mix of evergreen and deciduous shrubs.
The town council has also funded several community groups through its Bloom and
that invites people to join a community of swimmers that take to the lake on Saturday mornings with Sunday mornings and a weekday evening to be added in line with demand.
This year, Aqua Parcs introduces its new tiered memberships: Silver (£50) gives access to all Off-Peak sessions and Gold (£75) gives unlimited access to Peak and OffPeak sessions. Individual entry is from £22. All sessions include wetsuit hire, a safety briefing, a buoyancy aid and 50 minutes on the park.
Families, kids from the age of 6 years old and adventurous thrill-seekers alike will all be able to take part in the inflatable water fun on the lake in total safety, thanks to Aqua Parcs’ stringent safety measures as recognised by The Royal Life Saving Society awarding Aqua Parcs a Gold accreditation.
Numbers on the park are strictly limited. The park has been split into sections, and visitors will move between them at allocated times within their session.
> Further details about booking and preparing for a visit can be found at www.aquaparcs.co.uk
Connect with Aqua Parcs on social media at: Facebook: www.facebook.com/AquaparcsUK Twitter: @aquaparcs Instagram: @aquaparcsmk
enhance green spaces such as public gardens and church yards in their neighbourhoods.
In 2025, the town council will enter the East Midlands in Bloom competition. Community groups are welcome to be part of this and can contact the council if they have a planting project they would like to include.
This summer also sees the re-introduction of the Wellness Walk around Abington Park, where visitors can follow a trail of boards amongst the park’s flower beds, each featuring a different uplifting wellbeing quote written by local poet James McInerey.
> For information on Northampton in Bloom, including a trail map, and to find out more about the Climate Change Forum, please visit www.northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk
In other news, Bands in the Park performances continue at the Abington Park Bandstand every Sunday between 2 - 5pm. This month’s performances are: 7th July - Moulton 77 Brass Band 14th July – Brackley & District Band 21st July – City of Coventry Brass 28th July – Nene Valley Community Band.
And the Northampton Pride Parade and Festival takes place on Saturday, 13th July from 11am – 6pm at the Northampton University Waterside Campus. Visit Facebook for more information.
The Comedy Crate has been stacked over the past few weeks with a veritable feast of cracking nights, and the funny times keep on rolling through to the end of July with much still to enjoy.
Scott Bennett and Sara Barron visit
The Lamplighter (July 8) and Scott’s turn in the spotlight, Blood Sugar Baby, tells the amazing true story of how his infant daughter fell ill with a rare genetic condition. It mightn’t sound very funny, but Scott has managed to make it so – and it comes with a happy ending.
The blurb goes like this: ‘Two soul mates are taken from the idyllic world of NCT classes and plunged into months of treatment, genetics, bizarre side effects, private jets, and celebrity encounters.’
Jon Pearson asks What Have You Been Up To? (July 17) when he rocks up at VandB as part of his first UK tour.
It comes with the promise that he will weave comedy gold from what feels like thin air, by talking to you, the audience.
The Comedy Crate Weekender (July 20 & 21), with support from Northampton Town Centre BID, will deliver 25 acts across three stages in two days. All those taking part will be delivering Edinburgh previews or work in progress sets, and there are some terrific
talents lined-up for you – Maisie Adam, Jack Skipper, Mark Thomas, Angela Barnes, Hudson & Hudson and John Robertson among them.
Local talent done swell, Andrew Bird is also on the bill.
Last up, on July 27, Markus Birdman and Jacob Nussey will grab the mic at Cheyne Walk Club
> To book tickets head to thecomedycrate.com
Bite Street Northampton has liplicking events offering fabulous eats, liquid treats and cool beats throughout the summer.
The brand will cater for you at The County Cricket Ground (July 26-28), with the promise of epic vendors, house cocktails, foaming beer, good wine and great vibes.
Meet the acquaintance of Tapas Zampa, The Patty Freaks, Gyro Guys, and vegan donut deliverers, Flats Doughnuts.
The bar will be serving up Budvar, Brooklyn Pilsner, Brooklyn Defender, Punk IPA, Prosecco van, cocktails, cider, Warner’s gin and vegan wine. Cheers to that.
There are further chances to tickle those tastebuds at Franklin’s Gardens with a variety of traders – check in between August 9 & 11, and again between August 23 & 25.
Food shouldn’t just nourish, it should be an occasion, and Bite Street has got this business bang on.
> Let the tasting begin at bitestreet.co.uk
Looking ahead, Sophie’s Street Feast will return to Milton Keynes City Discovery Centre this September 22, promising an eclectic mix of street food vendors, with delicious dishes inspired by cuisines from far and wide. More details will be announced in due course.
Get ready to devour all kinds of delight at this free to attend event in the picturesque corner of the new city, which also raises funds for some deserving charities. What’s not to like?
FRIDAY
SUNDAY
HISTORIC F1 CARS
TOURING CARS GT CARS SPORTS CARS PLUS: AYRTON SENNA TRIBUTE TRACK ON
DIDDLY SQUAT FARM SHOP
LOCAL ARTISAN MARKET
TASTING TENT
SILVERSTONE KITCHEN LIVE WITH TOP CHEFS TO BE ANNOUNCED...
CIRCUS SHOWS & WORKSHOPS
STEM ACTIVITY WITH LEGO BIG WHEEL
TRADITIONAL FUNFAIR
THRILL RIDES
CRECHE & SOFT PLAY
AXE THROWING
WATER ZORBS
CRAZY GOLF & GARDEN GAMES
MINI MONSTER TRUCKS
FACEPAINTING
FT. FORMULA 1 TEAM SHOW CARS FAN
THOUSANDS OF CLASSIC CARS
HOT AIR BALLOON NIGHT GLOW
DREAM RIDES
STUNT & RALLY SHOWS
DRIFTING & DRAGSTERS AUCTIONS EV TEST DRIVES
YOUNG DRIVER LESSONS SHOPPING VILLAGE PLUS
The Parks Trust has a heap of family friendly events to get you out and making the most of MK’s beautiful green spaces in the coming weeks.
Love Nature Day (July 6) at Howe Park Wood is the perfect example – local wildlife organisations who are driving positive change in the natural environment will show you how to connect with nature, and how you can support it at home.
There will be a number of crafts and activities to partake in, and if you want to learn how you can support our pollinators, you’ll ‘bee’ in the right place.
The Biodiversity Team will be present and leading guided walks in the ancient woodland – a BSL interpreter will be available for both walks, and you can practice mindfulness in nature with a yoga session.
Add in face painting and storytelling and you’ve got all you need for a fab, free afternoon out.
At Willen Lake (July 6), the 22nd MK Dragon Boat Festival will be causing ripples.
More than 40 teams will compete over the 200m course, and spectators can enjoy food and activities on terra firma.
Back at Howe Park Wood (July 23-25) a series of Open Mornings will be taking a closer look at mammals, by exploring some of the nests, feathers and skulls discovered in local parks.
The woods are home to many endangered plant and animal species, and have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Nature themed challenges and self-guided trails await, and volunteers will be on hand to help you get the most from your visit.
A trip to the Fun Fair is a school holiday treat, and John Scarrott and Sons will bring the rides, stalls and games to Willen Lake between July 25 and August 11.
The aroma of donuts and candy floss will fill the air, accompanied by the excited chatter of youngsters.
At Ashland Lakes (August 7) little folks can get stuck into Parkland Play with face painting, crafts, soft play, storytelling, lawn games and sensory experiences.
Why not join the Outdoor Learning Team for a bug-hunting escapade?
Further sessions will be held at Glebe Farm (August 14), Whitehouse Park (August 21) and Stanton Low (August 28).
History lovers can trace the footsteps of the Romans at North Loughton Valley Park (August 17).
This is a chance to learn about their way of life, and how better to fire up imaginations than with a guided tour around the Roman Villa remains?
Meet ‘real-life’ Roman soldiers and see if you’ve got what it takes to join the army...
Build your own fort before dismantling it with a hand build Roman catapult!
While there, you can also learn about everything from Roman medicine to mosaics. Fun-filled and educational, and as with all these events, free to attend.
> For more information on all upcoming events offered by The Parks Trust, visit theparkstrust.com
Win one of THREE family tickets to Woburn Safari Park and you’ll find yourself transported to the savannah grasslands of Africa, the forests of North America, the desert coasts of South America… and beyond!
You’ll get the chance to get up close to some amazing animals, including rhinos, tigers, lions, bears, monkeys and giraffes. Once you’ve enjoyed your amazing adventure by car in the Road Safari, continue the fun on foot in the Foot Safari, home to squirrel monkeys, lemurs, meerkats, sea lions, penguins, and many others!
Catch the programme of fascinating keeper talks and demonstrations throughout the day, to learn more about the species and get to know individual animal residents better.
See a world of wonderful animals, all in one amazing day, without even leaving the country. Fun, learning and playtime for you and your little monkeys.
Spot the three adorable endangered ring-tailed lemur babies born recently in the Land of the Lemurs walkthrough enclosure. Watch them take on new heights as they learn to climb, jump and play - as you walk right alongside them in their beautiful woodland enclosure.
Venture around the Park this summer and you may spot a familiar face, as some of the most popular kids’ TV characters are coming to say hello to their littlest fans. Visit on selected dates throughout July and August, and book your ticket to see Peppa Pig, Hey Duggee, CoComelon characters, Bluey and Gruffalo, as they’ll be popping up to meet and greet their fans!
For your chance to win, answer this question:
Name three of the continents that our animals originate from... and email your answer to nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk
Subject: NN Pulse Woburn Safari Park along with your name, address and a contact telephone number. The closing date for entries is: Wednesday
Forget term time, it’s farm time for guaranteed school holiday fun, and Mead Open Farm in Billington has got plenty to keep the kids happy. Shaggy’s Summer Spectacular launches on July 20 and runs through to September 1.
Visitors will be able to try Water Zorbing (suitable for ages six and over), can strut their stuff on the dance floor at the Silent Disco and foamy fun will rule with the end of the day Foam Party returning.
There is plenty more, with Indoor Soft Play, Sky Trail-High Ropes, a Climbing Wall, Go Karts, Outdoor Log Play, and even a JCB Digger Village!
Tractor and Trailer Rides will take the strain while you put your feet up for a while, and if you want to get hands on with the animals, how about taking a turn with the daily pony grooming sessions or the Bunny Hop?
Don’t forget to grab a selfie with Mead’s mascot, Shaggy too.
> Book online and you save 20%. Visit meadopenfarm.co.uk
The Patch MK is a petal-tastic treat just now, with its Flower Fields delivering a sea of colour.
Speciality sunflowers and wildflowers are grown across 50 acres of the family farm. The flower fields are no ordinary pick your own, with more than 500,000 sunflowers and 75 million wildflowers, the fields are a stunning spectacle to behold and offer visitors endless choice when creating their bouquets to take home. They also offer an escape from the pace of life and allow visitors time to reconnect with nature. But the flower power is only a small part of the offering from The Patch, located on Stratford Road in Northants, a small drive from Milton Keynes.
If you visit, you must investigate the Maize Mazes, which this year include the roar-some Jurassic Maze, which is home to 14 giant dinosaurs, and the Musical Maze – as you navigate the space you can make music with family and friends, experimenting with rhythm and pitch.
> Book for your bloomin’ great day out at thepatchmk.co.uk
If, like us, you love a little gin tipple, your palate will no doubt have met with Warner’s Gin before now.
The distillery, which is all about quality and contemporary twists on traditional flavour, is set in the rolling hills of Northamptonshire on an estate dating back to the 13th century.
Its super spirits utilise the elderflower, angelica, verbena and lavender grown on the farm.
The team behind the winning liquor are offering tours of the distillery, which gives you unrivalled access, taking you through the art of gin-making, from those beautiful botanicals to the sustainable practices they employ, showing a commitment to the environment.
There are two tours to choose from; a classic distillery tasting tour within the farm, or, a longer nature experience, which will see you tour through the 140 acre farm, where you will tend the bee hives, harvest those farmgrown botanicals, mix up cocktails and enjoy a tasting of the range of award-winning flavours.
This sounds like our idea of heaven.
> For a truly Gincredible day out visit warnersdistillery.com
When it comes to putting on prime entertainment The Silverstone Festival is in pole position, and ready to deliver a weekend of sunny delight this August 23-25.
Pop perfection will spill from the main stage with headliners Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Busted and Olly Murs playing over the three days, with support acts including Shola Ama, Nath Brooks, Somebody’s Child, Cassa Jackson, ADMT and Furnace and the Fundamentals
But music aside, there is much, much more to take attentions, with historic F1 cars and sports cars, a tribute to Ayrton Senna, a foodie fest including Diddly Squat Farm Shop, a local artisan market, tasting tent and Silverstone Kitchen Live – expect to see some familiar faces in charge of the live demos...
Milton Keynes Museum prides itself on being a hands-on environment, eschewing exhibits behind glass in favour of tactile opportunities, making it a firm favourite with visitors.
And what a lot there is to see!
Set in beautiful farmland on the outskirts of Wolverton, the Museum is dedicated to the history of the new city, and of the ancient history which came before it.
Step inside the Victorian Farmhouse and play old fashioned games and musical instruments in the Parlour Room, make toast in front of an open fire in the kitchen or tackle the washing in the laundry room.
Go window shopping in the Street of Shops, with its many original old shop fronts saved from long gone stores locally.
There is a Farming Barn, a Print Room, and in the Hall of Transport you can investigate the old fire engines (that were pulled by horses!), explore bicycles through the decades, and take a seat on the world’s biggest stream tram, and much more besides.
One highlight for many visitors is a trip to the Telephone Gallery, which offers a
Elsewhere, there will be circus shows and workshops, STEM activity with Lego, a big wheel, traditional funfair, creche and soft play, axe throwing, crazy golf and garden games, mini monster trucks and face painting.
The Fan Zone will be displaying the Formula 1 team show cars, so make sure to go and check them out, and in addition to that there will be thousands of classic cars parked up for inspection, a hot air balloon night glow, stunt and rally shows, young driver lessons and a shopping village to get lost in.
It’s a monster of an event which truly caters for everyone.
> Make tracks for an exceptional weekend, visit silverstone.co.uk
For your chance to win one of two sets of family tickets at Silverstone Festival:
Where does the Formula 1 British Grand Prix take place each year?
Scan the QR code below to enter
The family ticket at Silverstone Festival is for two adults and up to four child tickets, on the day of the winner’s choice so that you can be part of the ultimate family festival at the home of British motorsport.
The closing date for entries is:
Wednesday, July 31
nostalgic look back at how these essential communication tools have evolved.
Two new galleries are currently being worked on, and once open they will tell the story of Milton Keynes becoming a city, and its ancient past – from the Jurassic era to the here and now.
There is so much to see and do, and a yummy tea room to ensure that tummies don’t rumble during your visit. If you’d prefer, take a picnic and enjoy the green spaces, play area and the pretty Victorian and Wartime gardens, and no visit is complete without popping to
see MK’s famous concrete cows, who have now retired to chew the cud at the Museum! Pay once, and enjoy unlimited visits for a whole year – including free entry to all its special events. And there will be plenty of summer holiday activities, so there’s no need to worry about keeping the kids entertained once school is out.
Think you know Milton Keynes? Visit MK Museum and think again!
> Connect at miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk
The new Jolly Jockeys ride at Wicksteed Park has got visitors jumping for joy!
The lakeside attraction allows you to hit the saddle and gallop to victory in a horse race around a circuit of twists, turns and fences.
Jolly Jockeys is the latest addition to the park, and follows on from recent year additions including the Galaxy Invaders rider, the Garden Wheel and Meerkat Manor.
The Park also cheers little folks with its daytime shows including Wicky Bear and friends.
All the park’s rides and attractions will be open each weekend and throughout the summer holidays, so you can enjoy rides like Dinosaur Valley and Rocky River Falls or favourites like the Paratrooper, the Dodgems, the Train, Sway Rider and the Carousel
And with everyone having to make the pounds and pence go further, the park has reduced pre-booked, dated wristbands to just £20, with individual ride tickets at £3.
Wicksteed Park was opened in 1921 by Charles Wicksteed, the creator of swings and slides as we know them today, who had a vision to inspire and encourage play as part of families’ health and wellbeing.
More than a century since turning his vision into a reality, Wicksteed Park is still at the heart of the matter for families seeking fun times.
> Arrange yours by clicking to wicksteedpark.org
The Northampton Balloon Festival is back at the town’s Racecourse (August 16-18) and ready to delight thousands at the family spectacle. Enjoy lots of live arena entertainment; a circus workshop will wow, a funfair will thrill and there will be plenty of trade stalls to investigate. Wonder at the majesty of the birds of prey, and plenty of food and drink stalls are set to keep your energy levels up.
At sunset, the hot air balloons will glow in a true spectacle of light, and then, when the skies have been filled with the balloons, you can keep your eyes trained upwards to enjoy the fireworks that will follow.
‘Don’t miss this magical celebration that promises unforgettable moments for the whole family. Join us in Northampton for a weekend of high-flying joy!’ urge organisers. Visit once and never again will ‘a load of hot air’ have the same meaning. This is a gem in the town’s annual programme.
> For more information, fire over to thenorthamptonballoonfestival.co.uk
MK Gallery has partnered with five local community groups to curate this year’s edition of MK Calling; MK SNAP, The Visually Impaired People Group, Unknown Collective, members of the Middle Eastern Cultural Group, and adults from Q:Alliance have all played their part in this show.
The result is a melting pot of marvellous, creative moments, spanning sculpture, painting, photography, installation and film. In all, there are more than 120 established and emerging artists showing out in the gallery space, with themes as varied as the pieces on display; inclusivity, identity, possible futures, heritage, and significant moments all take their turn across the five thematic gallery spaces.
The show runs all the way through to September 29, so plenty of time to check in with the talents on your doorstep, and it’s a celebratory event too – marking a quarter of a century that the gallery has been providing visitors to Milton Keynes with thought-provoking exhibitions.
> For more information head to mkgallery.org
Atemporary exhibition at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery will bring to life the history behind the infamous Royal Mail Steamer, Titanic
From conception to her tragic and untimely demise, Honour and Glory will display artefacts from the disaster, together with props from the blockbuster film.
The exhibition is open now, and continues through to September 15.
Something quite different, and very charming, is Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee (showing until September 8). Elmer, Mr Benn and Bernard will be brought to life using original paintings, storyboards and illustrations, film and interactives.
No matter whether you are a youngster or a big kid (!) you will find something to charm you.
If you are a fan of our feathered friends, then you’ll want to stick your beak into Brilliant Birds: The Love Birds Wedding (until September 1) at Abington Park Museum ‘Owls, a penguin, cranes, and storks along with many other birds all feature in The Lovebirds Wedding by Henry Stacy Marks.’ Pop along and explore their stories and myths, facts and imagery in this family friendly display.
The many stories shared as part of the recent 80th D-day commemoration were moving, poignant and inspirational, but the tales of heroism and devastation should never be forgotten.
Also at Abington Park Museum (Until September 30), Poppy Project showcases an impressive number of locally crafted poppies, each representing an individual with a Northamptonshire connection, who was a casualty of the D-Day landings, and the subsequent battles.
> Investigate more by visiting northamptonmuseums.com
Summer events at Lamport always feel particularly special with the gardens a riot of colour and the sun (mostly!) shining.
This year’s outdoor theatre is being performed by Boxtree Productions and will be a family-friendly performance of Wind in the Willows on Friday 12 July. Order a picnic and enjoy the wonderful surroundings of the Walled Garden on a summer’s evening.
The Tame Valley Stompers Allstars return for another year on Sunday 14 July. This always feels like a quintessential day out so gather a group of friends and family, bring some strawberries and soak up the sounds of traditional jazz on a Sunday afternoon.
We continue to celebrate 50 years of the Preservation Trust which cares for Lamport Hall with the King West Country Club Cocktail Party on Saturday 27 July. Lamport Hall was converted briefly into a country club in the 1930s so we’ll be turning back the clocks for a cocktail party in the Hall. There will be themed cocktails and canapes as well as dance demonstrations, a gramophone DJ and a live jazz vocalist. 1930s outfits are encouraged!
We will also be welcoming LunaFlix back to Lamport on Saturday 3 August for an
outdoor cinema screening of Pretty Woman. Enjoy a stroll round the gardens, an evening picnic and the bar and gourmet popcorn on offer before settling down at sunset to watch the 1980s classic. Perfect for a girl’s night out or romantic date night.
For smaller visitors, we have our stay and play sessions with The Realm of Enchantment and Outdoor Explorers as well as brand new activity packs to complement a visit to the Hall.
The Hall and Gardens will also be open every Wednesday and
Thursday alongside our café and gift shop. Dogs on leads are most welcome. We can’t wait to welcome you this summer! Please visit the website on www.lamporthall.co.uk for more information or phone the office on 01604 686272
Indulge in our summer afternoon tea menu with delicious sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries on our al fresco dining area. Enjoy a complimentary glass of Rose Prosecco in June, July and August.
Served daily from 12pm to 5pm
Traditional Vintage £32.95
To book call 01536 416666
ketteringparkhotel.co.uk
We’ve
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.
We are able to help you with:
• Child Arrangement Orders
• Adoption
• Care Proceedings
• Divorce & Relationship Breakdown
• Finance Our Partner led family team are experienced in all aspects of family law
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
Us Brits are weather obsessed, and the moment the sun breaks through, we shed the layers in search of bronzed skin. But no tan is worth the threat of skin cancer. As we get summer ready, it should be the lotions, not the bikinis and shorts, that are top of our shopping list. Be smart. Stay safe. Introducing your new best friends...
New to the Clarins offering are four protection from sun products which will help to prevent wrinkles and dark spots. Sun-induced ageing is being packed off for a holiday of its own!
The Face Protectors – Youth-protecting Sunscreen - are available in SPF30 and SPF50+ and capable of supporting all skin types, even the most sensitive. Water resistant, the melting texture has a dry-feel and a matte finish.
Before you step outside, give your skin a spritz of the Sun Spray Lotion, or get busy with the Body Oil. It’s lightweight and presents an invisible finish. This is what happens when plant power meets science.
Get it: clarins.co.uk
RRP: £26 (Sunscreen)
£28 (Sun Spray Body Lotion & Sun Body Oil)
Grab an RMS Beauty SuperNatural Radiance Tinted Serum, and you’ll be in great company –within a week of its launch in February, it became a top seller on SpaceNK! Its light formula delivers a soft-focus filter and the perfect tint to enhance your natural complexion. There are three versatile shades to choose from which blend to a range of skin tones, and they all benefit from non-nano Zinc Oxide, which is a mineral SPF to keep skin safe.
Get it: SpaceNK.com
RRP: £51
Sol de Janeiro has just launched Body Lotion. It’s non-greasy, hydrates with ease and is beautifully fragranced with Sol’s Cheirosa 87.
The lotion works on all skin tones, delivering a soft-focus, easy glow – and with SPF50 at your fingertips, you’ve got an easy barrier from the damage potential.
If Body Oil is your go to, Sol de Janeiro has bottled that for you too – same fragrance, same SPF, this one will brighten and nourish.
Get it: cultbeauty.co.uk
RRP: £40 (Lotion), £38 (Oil)
Million Dollar Sunscreen is Lush, through and through! Made with honey and Fair Trade shea butter, the brand has also utilised organic sesame, jojoba, and cold-pressed primrose oils in this tub of skin support, which is aided by a subtle shimmer.
This SPF30 is great for the face, neck, chest and arms and should be applied generously every two hours.
Get it: Lush stores in centre:mk, Milton Keynes and the Grosvenor Centre, Northampton and online at lush.com/uk
RRP: £18 (50g), £30 (100g)
Shower on your sun care, while you shower off the grime!
The Lush Sunblock is a solid combo of sunscreens and skin-loving Fair Trade organic cocoa butter, calamine powder, and chamomile blue oil. It’s SPF30 and will leave you feeling cool, calm and protected. Cleverly marked out in chunks so you can be sure to use the right amount, you simply leave the shower and gently pat yourself dry to help protect against those harmful rays.
When it gets really hot, the Sunblock might have a little meltdown of its own – in extreme temperatures, keep it safe in the fridge.
Get it: Lush stores in centre:mk, Milton Keynes and the Grosvenor Centre, Northampton and online at lush.com/uk
RRP: £11
No7 Future Renew Damage Protection Defence Shield there’s no time to regret, but definitely time to reverse the visible signs of sun damage, tackling fine lines and wrinkles, uneven tone, texture and dry skin by supporting skin’s natural self-repair.
Use every morning after cleansing, and before reaching for the make-up. Apply evenly to the face and neck.
Keep rays at bay for a truly sunny complexion...
Get it: boots.com
RRP: £24.95 (Defence Shield) £34.95 (Serum)
• Newly released homes
• 5 min drive* to Kettering Hospital
• Great travel links to A1 and M1
• Homes with energy saving features
• Offers and moving schemes available
• Homes with energy saving features
• 15 minute walk* to Wellingborough train station
• Local primary and secondary schools nearby
• Homes ready to move into this year
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
4 essential Waitrose Free Range Eggs
750g pack Waitrose Baby New Potatoes, halved
250g pack British Green Beans, trimmed
1 tbsp cider vinegar
1 tsp wholegrain mustard
1 tsp clear honey
2 tbsp The Waitrose Farm Leckford Estate
Cold-pressed Rapeseed Oil
250g cherry tomatoes, halved
100g radishes, thinly sliced
Punnet essential Waitrose Salad Cress
1. Boil the eggs in a pan of simmering water for 9 minutes, then drain and cool. Shell and halve the eggs.
2. Meanwhile, cook the potatoes in a pan of boiling water for 8–10 minutes until tender. Add the beans and cook for a further 3 minutes until both are tender. Drain and cool under running water then transfer to a serving platter.
3. Whisk the vinegar, mustard and honey together with a fork, then whisk in the oil until well blended.
4. Arrange the tomatoes, radishes and eggs on top of the beans and potatoes. Drizzle over the mustard dressing and scatter with cress to serve.
A few capers or anchovies scattered over the top before serving would add a nice salty balance to the sweet dressing.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose. Thousands of recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.
4th Aug & 1st Sept
1pm-4pm with special guest TONY HOWES
An afternoon of comedy, magic and a delicious meal for all of the
Please note that this will be a set menu. Spaces are getting booked up so make your reservations now!
The holiday season approaches! The rate of growth of all the plants in the garden is increasing.
The squashes, melons and pumpkins have grown well, as have the tomatoes in growing bags, and the chillies in large pots.
Following months of digging, planting, potting and planning, the fruits of all those gardening labours are paying off and – if your garden is anything like the large allotment space being worked by Jean Cocker – you’ll be reaping the rewards with a colourful show to lift the spirits!
“There are lots of flowers blooming just now,” she told Pulse, “There are so many to enjoy – Lobelias, Pansies, Petunias, Mallows, Fox Gloves, Holly Hocks, Marigolds, Stocks and Aubretia are leading the way.”
Jean is a slave to her open space, and is often out early enough to enjoy the bird song and see those flowers awakening from their slumber and turning towards the sun.
Jean has transformed her patch from an overgrown plot into a welcoming, cheery space to lift the mood.
“...and the scent in the evening is gorgeous,” she promises.
Gardening novices might look at Jean’s efforts and be overwhelmed, but she says that you should start small, and don’t be
fazed when things go wrong, as some inevitably will; it’s all a learning curve.
And, just like those stems that are the objects of desire, as your knowledge grows, so too will they.
“Mallows are always easy to grow,” Jean promises, “The seeds soon germinate and they also self-seed. My personal favourites are Fox Gloves and I have lots of those on the allotment.
“If you want to garden but really feel at a loss, start by planting some flowers in pots, which makes gardening very easy, and even a little window box with lots of colours can make a big difference.
“The satisfaction of being able to sit back and say ‘I did that’ is quite something, and of course, you’ll be bitten by the bug...”
Speaking of garden irritators, you will need to work to bug proof your seedlings and plants as much as possible, but no matter how good you are, you should expect some casualties.
Marigolds provide a perfectly bright pop of orange and yellow with their carnation-like flower heads also standing strong against incredibly hot temperatures.
Planting close to tomatoes – especially if greenhouse-grown – is worthwhile; they make the perfect companion flower as they deter whiteflies.
“They can be tricky when grown outside because we aren’t the only ones that love them – the slugs do too!” Jean said, speaking from experience.
“Being on the allotment gives me such a feeling of wellbeing. It gives me a great sense of achievement and at this time of year especially, I can’t wait to get out of bed and get down there. It’s food for the soul and I really would advise anyone to give it a go. The difference it makes to mind, spirit and body is really something!”
All need regular feeding using a high potash tomato fertiliser. It is important to use the correct dilution, preferably in rainwater, applied to the compost or soil around each plant without splashing the foliage.
The first early and second early potatoes have all grown well in large pots, topped up with ’acquired’ loam and some have been harvested, with great results.
Early-sown sweet peas are flowering well. Picking the flowers daily inhibits seed pod production and encourages more flowers. They, too, need watering and feeding regularly. Remember the mantra “Feed on Friday!” Last month we mulched around the strawberry plants with straw and they have rewarded us handsomely.
The collection of large terracotta pots, in which we had a wonderful display of spring tulips, have been emptied and the bulbs dried and stored. They are refilled with container compost and planted with bedding plants, including impatiens, pansies, lobelia, bacopa, petunias and pelargoniums, amongst others.
The compost heap, (piled within three pallets set at right angles), has been dug out. The coarse material on top, which has not rotted down, has been heaped on top of the logs of a hedgehog’s den. The rest of the decomposed material was used to mulch the decorative shrubs around the sitting area.
We all need a rest!
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
Just three shows for you this month under the SBD banner, but they are all goodies, starting with Darnell Cole & The Vibe (July 19).
Southern California based, he has earned his touring legs travelling the world with artists including Walter Trout and Iron Butterfly.
The self-styled independent Blues King released his debut long-player, A Man of Soul late last year, and is following that by touring hard to share the sounds, continuing his mission to spread the gospel of rock, soul and positivity.
His Northampton return follows a particularly memorable debut in our town. This time, as then, he will fill the ears of ticket holders at The Black Prince with infectious rhythms, soulful melodies and groovy tunes. Start the weekend the right way, by spending Friday night with Darnell. Get along nice and early and you’ll see Harrison Hood too.
A bloody great night is planned for July 25, when Blood Club x Bloody/Bath play the venue.
The former are post-punk inspired, taking influences from each member’s latin roots. The ensuing delivery is therefore peppered with an original, multilingual sound.
The band debuted in 2022 and enticed thousands of listeners in quick time, performing in their locality of Chicago.
Frontman and Blood Club founder Jess Flores is joined in play in this new three piece by guitarist Jorge Calderton and bassist Daniel Vela, and naturally they hope that their appeal will be just as enticing on this side of the pond, as it is at home.
Sounds like?
‘Using minor key tonality, heavy synths and introspective lyrics, Jesse uses the occasional touch of Spanish in his songwriting as well to create a hybrid genre of dark wave that has romantic, but dark undertones.’
Joining the plasma party will be Blood Club’s spiritual brothers, and ‘fampton faves Bloody/Bath.
The perfect antidote to disposable wishywashy drear, Bloody/Bath are feverish and bewitching, with Kailan’s lyrics laying bare his personal battle with crippling depression and anxiety, which they say is ‘a story of someone lost in their own head, imprisoned in a waking experience of sleep paralysis.’
The guitars are nostalgic, the bass thumps and the drums hit hard amongst an ominous atmosphere.
Show by show the band is winning over new ears and is turning into something of a cult favourite on the scene.
Their debut EP, All Love Unfelt, was released last year and aided that process. Once lo-fi indie rockers, that release was a revelation, as they successfully transformed into a spaced out post-punk collective.
And when a certain Iggy Pop and Steve Lamacq are on side, you know you are doing something right.
The quintet, who have stage-shared with Buzzcocks and Topographies this year, will issue their debut album, In An Empty Space, I’m Screaming in October.
The Northampton date is being hosted over at The Lab on Charles Street, and Potwash will open the night.
A late addition to the schedule, Obey Cobra will play for you on July 27.
Hailing from the Welsh underground scene, they took inspiration from the psychedelic sounds of times past, but also infused a modern edge to deliver a sound distinct to them.
Let’s put it another way; ‘Their musical style is always experimental, blending post punk and kosmische sensibilities with electronic industrial sounds, forming the backdrop for (vocalist) K Wood to deliver spoken word, pop crooning and rage-fuelled vocal performances.’
Sounds like the show with it all.
> To book tickets for either show, tap to sbdpromotions.com
Nik Kershaw plays The Roadmender on July 12, and rather than start with what you can expect, here’s what you won’t be getting; there will be no dance moves, lasers, pyrotechnics, jazz hands or anything remotely ‘showbusiness,’ he promises.
Nik was a prolific chart-botherer, and so instead of filler, you will get hits aplenty – Wouldn’t It Be Good, The Riddle, I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me, Dancing Girls, Human Racing, Don Quixote and more.
There is even the teaser of a cheeky cover being thrown in for good measure.
Don’t miss the opportunity to see the man that Elton John once declared to be ‘the best songwriter of his generation,’ when he visits.
Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen and Dolly. When he’s through with that lot, Cody will perform his own chart topping originals, including Downtown and Cowboy Sitting at the Bar
‘Let’s make memories, celebrate the heart of country music, and raise the roof,’ is the invitation. Now, where did I put those rubber cowboy boots?
Also at the venue this month, Bingo Loco (July 5) will deliver the best in nineties and noughties sounds, confetti showers, dance offs, lip sync battles and prizes ranging from lawnmowers to international holidays. Eyes down from 6pm for this one.
The Cody Pennington Country Show (July 20) will pay tribute to genre leaders including
AYou know what it’s like – you fancy the idea of clubbing still, but by the time you should be going out, you’ve got a cuppa, your feet up on the sofa and the box on.
Here’s your chance to enjoy all the fun without the late night – Day Shift is clubbing for those over the age of 30 who still want the same energy, but recoil at the thought of being out past midnight!
DJ’s, dancers, disco balls, confetti showers and more is the promise. Day Shift runs from 5pm to 10pm and will bang out all the best in 80s, 90s and 00s tunes.
> To book tickets click to theroadmender.com
Aliens... they are coming!
liens will invade The Black Prince on July 12, when the original 70s punk players rock up to play their recent album, Nothing Much to Lose in its entirety.
The Aliens, from that far flung place called Wellingborough, came, conquered and disappeared soon thereafter, having made an impact on the local scene for their retro, sci-fi and rowdy punk.
That album we just mentioned has taken a whopping 45 years to materialise, and last for just 33 minutes – the band say it means they don’t overstay their welcome.
‘Typical of the genre in which they operate, you won’t find any cliched ‘70s rock pop and excess here; this is punk rock that could emanate from any garage up and down the land.
‘But what this album lacks in finesse, it more than makes up for in lyrical astuteness and a brand of punk that could rival the Buzzcocks at their buzzsaw best,’ is the promise.
Post punk and indie merchants Joy Disposal Unit will also play for you, and they come armed with a smidgen of doom.
> Tickets for this White Elephant Records bash are a fiver in advance, £8 on the door.
Reverend & The Makers will play Northampton Roadmender on November 19, as part of an extensive UK road trek.
“I’m made up to be going on tour again - it’s been too long since we last played any shows,” said lead singer Jon McClure, “Having toured Heatwave In The Cold North a couple of months before its release I’m looking forward to playing more songs from that album and maybe testing out a few from the next one.”
> Tickets are on sale now – visit theroadmender.com
When a devastating diagnosis rocked his family last year, 17-year-old musician Josh Cox turned to music to deal with the difficulties, and to bring about a chink of positivity.
Following a seizure last August, Josh’s father was diagnosed with a Grade 4 Glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain tumour.
“The doctors gave him the option to either have highly risky surgery that would remove as much of the tumour as possible but will grow back and have 12-18 months to live or not have surgery and have three months to live. He chose to have the surgery which we had to go to London for him to have,” Josh said.
“The operation went as well as it could, however he struggled to walk at all afterwards and couldn’t remember mine and my mum and brothers names despite knowing exactly who we were. After a few days he improved a lot, being able to remember a lot more words and being able to walk short distances.”
Josh’s father has since undergone chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
“A few weeks ago he had one of the scans and they saw the tumour had grown back in two places. Doctors have said they cannot proceed with the current type of chemotherapy. Now he is starting another type of treatment. However, these things are only buying time not a cure.”
Keen to do something constructive and beneficial, Josh set about organising a fundraiser.
“I wanted to help people who were in a similar situation to my dad and help people in the future find a cure,” he said, “As music is my main passion and helps me escape
from what’s going on it felt like an obvious choice. I mentioned to one of my friends, Louis Humphreys, on the same music tech course that I would like to do some kind of fundraiser to raise money for the Brain Tumour Charity and he was very interested in helping.”
Organising a charity gig seemed the obvious way to do something positive in the midst of the incredibly challenging times.
“...not only would it raise money to help research into Brain Tumours and stop others going through the same thing as my dad, it would also bring people out who wouldn’t normally go to a live music event.”
Earlier this month, that gig played out at The Charles Bradlaugh in Northampton, under the Blues For Brain Tumours title.
Best of all, Josh’s father was in the audience to watch the show: “My dad ended up being able to make the gig by sleeping throughout the day to allow him to have the energy to watch the concert.
“It was great to have him at the show as he gets very few opportunities to hear me play as most events are in the evening and he often is very tired. Also, given his condition it will likely become less and less possible for him to attend events so it made an already special night even better.”
Josh and Louis are now looking to the next event, a chance to swell the charity coffers some more.
I
wanted to help people who were in a similar situation to my dad and help people in the future find a cure...”
Aylesbury based blues rock mob The Atomic Prune were joined in play by The Josh Cox trio and headliners, Northampton’s The Mojo Mules.
“The night went so well and all the performers and audience had a great time, and we raised just over £700,” Josh told Pulse Music.
“We are very keen to do more shows in a similar style to this one, potentially incorporating some jazz bands in the future,” he said.
Pulse Music will keep you posted.
> For more information, visit thebraintumourcharity.org
Singing for the Brain
Monday, July 1
Singing for the Brain® from Alzheimer’s Society uses singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity. Morning and afternoon sessions available.
For more information: Call 01908 232612 or email miltonkeynes@alzheimers.org.uk
Community Litter Pick: Furzton Lake Tuesday, July 2, 10am
An opportunity to get outdoors, explore your park and help your local environment. Grabbers at the ready: theparkstrust.com
MK Calling 2024
Until September 29
Artworks spanning sculpture, painting, photography, installation and film combine for this exhibition, which features more than 120 established and emerging artists. Themes include identity, inclusivity, heritage and significant moments.
Making a splash: mkgallery.org
Stony Stratford Women’s Institute
Tuesday, July 2, 2.15pm
Meeting monthly for interesting and varied talks and demonstrations at York House Centre, visitors welcome.
Inspiring Women: llyn.chipperfield@sky.com
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Tuesday, July 2 – Sunday, July 7
Absent-minded inventor Caractacus Potts restores a broken-down old racing car with the help of his children Jemima and Jeremy. Soon the family discovers the car has magical powers... Truly Scrumptious: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
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
Spooky Men’s Chorale Wednesday, July 3
A vast, rumbling, steam powered and black clad behemoth, seemingly accidentally capable of rendering audiences moist eyed with mute appreciation or haplessly gurgling with merriment!
Hold tight: stables.org
Milton Keynes Comedy Night
Thursday, July 4, 8pm
Hosted by Ryan McDonnell, giggle bringers Angelos Epithemiou, Lily Phillips and Mike Gunn will entertain you. Finding the funnies: mk11kilnfarm.com
The Picturedrome Comedy Club
Thursday, July 4
Join Andrew Bird, Sarah Callaghan, Joey Page and Tom Toal as they get your funny bone (and a few other places) loosened up. What are you laughing at?
Funny business: thepicturedrome.com
Milton Keynes National Trust Association
Thursday, July 4
Summer Social at Clayton House with afternoon tea and a tour around the house. Exploration: deefam5248@outlook.com
Steampunk Orchestra
Friday, July 5, 8pm
Classical elegance with the pulsating energy of classic rock, indie and pop hits. An immersive experience bridging the gap between musical genres and eras. Captivating: stables.org
Friday, July 5, 10am to 12 noon
The W.I. Arts, Sports & Leisure committee is hosting this coffee morning when three crafts will be demonstrated throughout the morning: Dorset Buttons (see photo), Kumihimo and Redwork Stitching. PLUS the County Raffle will be drawn. First prize £500, plus over 20 other prizes, including afternoon tea, entry to stately homes. See our website for a detailed list: www.northamptonshire.thewi.org.uk
All welcome. Enjoy coffee/cake and a chat whilst learning a new craft and maybe, just maybe, be the lucky winner of £500 in the County Raffle. No need to book, just turn up. £4, including coffee and cake at: WI House, 71 Park View, Moulton, Northampton NN3 7UZ
Elmer and Friends:
The Colourful World of David McKee
Saturday, July 6 – Sunday, September 8
The colourful world of David McKee is brought to life through original paintings, storyboards and illustrations, film, and interactives.
Creative class: northamptonmuseums.com
Weeping Willows
Saturday, July 6
Laura and Andrew are steeped in Bluegrass tradition and draped in Gothic Americana imagery. Expect stories of sunshine and romance, God and the Devil, murder and decay.
Real music: stables.org
80th Anniversary of D-Day: Poppy Project
Until September 30
A display of poppies all crafted by local groups – each knitted or crocheted poppy represents an individual with a Northamptonshire connection, who was a casualty of the D-Day landings in June, and subsequent battles through to September 1944.
In Flanders Fields: northamptonmuseums.com
NMPAT: Generations
Sunday, July 7, midday
A lunchtime session with end of year performances by the County Junior Orchestra, NMPAT Singers, County Junior Brass Ensemble, Jazz 3, County Junior Strings and County Junior Wind Orchestra. Tuning up: royalandderngate.co.uk
NMPAT Generations
Sunday, July 7, 6pm
Return in the evening for end of year performances by the County Junior Orchestra, NMPAT Singers, County Junior Brass Ensemble, Jazz 3, County Junior Strings and County Junior Wind Orchestra. You’ll be brassed off if you miss out: royalanddergate.co.uk
Robin Bibi Trio
Tuesday, July 9, 7.30pm
A return visit from the popular player, this time working his trio for the Bletchley faithful.
On a blues day: bletchleybluesclub.uk
Psychic Sally
Wednesday, July 10, 7.30pm
Bringing mediumship into the 21st century, take your seats for lots of love, laughter and warmth in a show that is investigational and for the purpose of entertainment.
A message for you: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Nik Kershaw
Friday, July 12
Just a man and his band playing lots of hits, because music doesn’t need to be flowered up when it’s sound.
Wouldn’t It Be Good? You bet: theroadmender.com
Willen Hospice Midnight Moo
Friday, July 12, 10pm
Join the herd on a five or 10 mile nighttime walk and make a difference by swelling the charity coffers.
Step to it: willen-hospice.org.uk/moo
Art in the Park
Saturday, July 13, 1pm-9pm
MK Islamic Arts & Culture hosts its annual festival at the Campbell Park Events Plateau, this year’s theme is Green City. Includes Parade of Colours, performances, art marquee, food village and funfair. Culture, nature, identity: Free entry
A(Nother) Audience with Del Bromham
Saturday, July 13, 8pm
Stray’s frontman returns for a second show of tales, songs and jokes following an earlier sold out show at York House. All in Del’s Mind: york-house.org.uk
The Wizard of Oz
Tuesday July 16 – Sunday, July 21
Bringing a lot of magic to audiences with this spectacular production which features the original score. Oh, and Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood is The Wicked Witch of the West.
Follow the yellow brick road: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
Darnell Cole & The Vibe
Friday, July 19
The independent Blues King is on a mission to spread his gospel of rock, soul and positivity, and heading to The Black Prince to do it. Man of Soul: sbdpromotions.com
A Foreigners Journey
Friday, July 12
A night to engage with a tribute to musical titans Foreigner and Journey - from Hot Blooded to Any Way You Want It. Cold as Ice: thepicturedrome.com
Love Parks Week
Limelight Theatre School: Showstoppers
Sunday, July 14
Talented pupils celebrate everything Musical Theatre in this production featuring songs and dances from all your favourite West End and Broadway Shows. Jazz hands, ready?: royalandderngate.co.uk
Singing for the Brain
Monday, July 15
Singing for the Brain® from Alzheimer’s Society uses singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity. Morning and afternoon sessions available.
For more information: Call 01908 232612 or email miltonkeynes@alzheimers.org.uk
Cody Pennington Country Show
Saturday, July 20, 7.30pm
A tribute to country legends old and new –from Luke Combs to Miss Parton, and Cody will deliver his own hits to boot. Rock the Rodeo: theroadmender.com
The Angels’ Share
Friday, July 20
Familiar sounds from the Celtic inspired rock/ folk peddlers who cross musical, cultural and age boundaries.
Hand clapping and feet tapping: thepicturedrome.com
Stony in Bloom
Sunday, July 21, 10am-midday
Head to the York House community gardens and help the team to grow veg for the Food Bank. All ages and abilities are welcome. Fresh veg is best: york-house.org.uk
Rubbish Shakespeare:
Romeo and Juliet
Sunday, July 21, 2pm
Three idiots perform Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, using only a box of tatty wigs, a worn floral dress, and a burst airbed they found by the bins.
Bardy excellent: stables.org
Dawg n Bonez
Tuesday, July 23, 7.30pm
A heady mix of energetic stone-cold classic blues, rocking self-penned originals and a sprinkling of Latin rhythms. That’s why they call it the blues: bletchleybluesclub.uk
RDCC: Retro Reminiscence
Friday, July 26 & Saturday, July 27
Celebrates a time of Rubik’s cubes, bubble perms and the cassette Walkman. Big hair, ra-ra skirts and stonewashed jeans optional! Gareth Fuller will lead the Royal and Derngate Community Choir for this date at The Picturedrome.
Step back in time: royalandderngate.co.uk
The Jam’d – Tribute to The Jam
Friday, July 26, 8pm
All the Weller and Co. classics you expect, delivered with a believable bang at the Kiln Farm venue.
Going Underground: mk11kilnfarm.com
Kids Club: Pirates & Mermaids
Saturday, July 27, 11am-4pm
Pirates and Mermaids are calling from out in the great blue ocean. Kids will be decorating a treasure chest so they can feel like a Pirate or Mermaid. A free event at Door 1, by the M&S Food Hall, thecentre:mk All hands on deck: centremk.com
Love Parks Week
Sunday, July 28, Midday-4pm
A one-day event in Abington Park with activities for all the family, and a range of community organisations will be present for you to find out more about what there is to love.
Green goodness: northamptonmuseums.com
Pop in Wednesday
Wednesday, July 31, midday-4pm
Visit Northampton museum for fun, hands-on activities for families. No booking necessary, and entry is free.
Family affair: northamptonmuseums.com
Love with Johnny Echols
Wednesday, July 31
Love with Johnny Echols sees Arthur Lee’s longest serving band return to the UK to perform classic songs from Love’s brilliant catalogue.
Forever Changes: stables.org
Live safe and well in a unique studio, 1-bed or 2-bed apartment at the Hawthorns, a warm and friendly all-inclusive rental retirement community for the over 70s.
• Includes all meals and snacks, housekeeping, property upkeep, and utility bills
• Full calendar of events, exercise classes, day trips and activities
• Cinema, library, hair salon, therapy room and short mat indoor bowling
• Staff on hand 24/7
Pigs and lions and tiger feetthere’s an animal thread running through this month’s theatre happenings. Together with some funnies and things that go bump in the night! Pulse’s Sammy Jones brings you more...
Well done if you were quick enough to secure a ticket to see national treasure, Miriam Margolyes at the Derngate (July 1), because her loose tongue and life well lived makes her a compelling, hilarious and sometimes poignant speaker.
The Vogue cover star and famous trumper (nope, that’s not an affectionate term for a fan of Donald!) has been sold out for yonks.
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out (Derngate July 3 & 4) will entertain the kids and might even make you snort too, when you follow Peppa on a special journey to the beach for a party. Trot-ter along for a right squeal!
Marvellous magic man Ali Cook is bringing his Principles of Deception to town (Royal, July 5 & 6). When he was a youngster, Ali was given a copy of the book that he has named his show after, and it was the first page-turner to record every type of magic trick.
Welcome show at the Derngate (July 9 & 10) are fully booked, but you can still find the funnies with The Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club (July 14, Filmhouse Screen 2) bringing Alistair Barrie and Sarah-Anne Haywood to the mic.
A roar-some time is a given (July 18-21, Derngate) when Madagascar: The Musical pays a visit.
Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle. In fact, you might say he’s the ‘mane’ attraction at New York’s Central Park Zoo. He and his pals – Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo – have spent their whole lives in blissful captivity, but Marty lets his curiosity get the better of him and makes his escape – with the help of some prodigious penguins – to explore the world.
You’ve seen it on screen, now see it on stage.
He’s going to perform them all at this gig. It’ll be a busy night.
Tiger Feet at the ready for The Glam Rock Show (Derngate, July 6). Girls rock your boys (and all that) at the 70s glam extravaganza.
Local lad done spectacularly well, James Acaster’s extra performances of his Heckler’s
for discrediting hauntings and exposing fake mediums, is invited to attend a seance in Blaine Manor, said to be the most haunted building in England.
This award-winning show is a love letter to the Golden Age of Hollywood and the Hammer Horror era. Goosebumps and chills are included in the price of every ticket –there is something horrific in the manor walls, and it has been awakened...
CBBC presenter Karim Zeroual – who strutted his stuff on Strictly – is signed up to perform.
Whether you are #TeamBeliever or #TeamSceptic, a long-term Uncanny fan or just interested in the paranormal, you’ll want in for Uncanny with Danny Robins (July 22, Derngate). The fella behind the West End hit 2:22 – A Ghost Story asks only that you bring an open mind with you.
The venue might be different, but the spooky vibes will be the same over at The Old Savoy (July 6) with The Haunting of Blaine Manor, which has been called ‘the new Woman in Black’. High praise, indeed. It’s 1953, and renowned American parapsychologist Doctor Roy Earle, famous
From the chilly to the silly with a top line-up coming together under the banner, Anglia Comedy Allstars (July 12).
Ready to make you giggle will be Sara Pascoe, writer and star of BBC 2 sitcom Out Of Her Mind, and host of The Great British Sewing Bee, and Seann Walsh, who The Times declares is ‘Hugely funny, deliciously entertaining.’
We’ve seen him and our opinion is the same. You want more from this strictly over 18s bash?
Rhys James and Laura Lexx are fellow familiars and pedigree assured. Take your seats for an evening of funnies from those who know how to command a room.
Ithought I’d write about something close to the hearts of us all; something that stirs emotions like no other. It is the sight of men and women engaging in an activity that excites many and a subject that cannot be ignored. Yes, bowls, and not American.
To a minority (pronounced, majority), bowls is a game played by old people. Indeed, on any outdoor bowling green or indoor carpet, it is true that most of the players will be older than twentyone; sometimes by many decades. However, there is a ‘grass roots’ element populated by children usually from the age of ten, but it is possible to witness three-yearolds being introduced to the sport. Realistically, it is not unusual to watch a bowls match being played by people in the thirties to eighties range.
The game’s origins in this country can be traced back to the thirteenth century while a few sources suggest the twelfth. The concept of aiming at an object placed by another player dates to Ancient Greece.
Despite its image as a peaceful and relaxed pastime, it was actually banned in the fifteenth century because it was feared it might jeopardise archery practise, then important in battle. In 1541 the Unlawful Games Act came into being. It was not repealed until 1845: worth remembering while watching elderly players being construed as a threat to national security, despite being close to succumbing to arthritic knees.
The ban on the game, and its variations, lasted over three
hundred years; proof of the heinousness of the practice.
The oldest surviving bowling green in the UK is Southampton Old Bowling Green, which was first used in 1299. How it was regarded during the ban is anyone’s guess!
In the north of the UK, an outdoor variant is Crown Green Bowls. Not much stops it being played. Rain, wind and hail are ignored. Snow covering the green is considered to be a good reason to retire to the club house, while lightning storms are rightly feared lest a player become a smouldering mount in the centre of a patch of almost flat grass.
In the south, we are more likely to encounter flatter greens on which games are played up and down in lanes, or even indoors where weather isn’t a factor. That said, a leaky roof could possibly scupper a game.
Bowls was formerly codified in the 1860s. One might look at the 1845 repeal of the 1541 Unlawful Games Act as being the trigger, but it should be noted that the Act never applied to ‘gentlemen’ or land owners in the first place. No mention of women at the time, but it was enacted by Henry VIII who it is claimed had an interesting stance on women. The 1845 repeal didn’t address the 1541 Act entirely. Aspects were left in place until 1960 whereupon the vestiges were wiped from the statute books. Organised games, such as cricket, now could be played legally on Christmas Day. That is a lot of bowls.
Phil O’HaraGains (8)
Flavour of the Times - After all the airiness of June, July takes a more emotional turn, kicked off by the new moon in Cancer on the 5th. The image is of the crab with its claws pulling things in towards itself. It has a hard shell but is vulnerable on the inside. People born under this sign tend to be a bit too sensitive for this world, so they try to wear that hard shell as a shield against the harshness of life. Men in particular can sometimes be unduly aggressive and irritable to protect themselves. Cancerians are generally not good leaders because of this. So, at this new moon, try to let your fears go and be open to emotional connections with those around you. It also emphasises family and home.
June 22 – July 23
A warm emotional glow might be felt at the new moon in your sign on 5th July. Venus is also in your sign, so you may really feel the love as you encounter family and friends. It also influences the love of your home base, where you feel most yourself, so allow that to refresh your emotional self after a rather crazy June.
July 24 – August 23
Avoid the tendency to show off as Mercury enters your sign. You like learning but you don’t always know as much as you think. It’s a more emotional month than last, so I hope you’ve learnt something about listening before offering opinions. You will learn most that way. People around you may need more emotional support, particularly at the new moon, so extend the hand of love.
August 24 – September 23
Some of your closest relationships may feel very chaotic at the moment. Emotions come to the surface but issues are ill defined and you find it hard to express yourself in the way you would like. You can’t seem to get any clarity about where you stand. There’s no doubting that there is love but maybe it has to take a different turn than you had anticipated. Try letting go of some preconceptions?
September 24 – October 23
Past patterns may feel as if they are really getting in your way right now and it’s easy to feel trapped, as if you have no room for maneouvre. The best approach might be to take a big step back to look at the every-day life you have and just change one or two things about it that may be overdue for renewal. See if you can find the simple love for people around you and go from there.
October 24 – November 22
Mars is in your opposite sign of Taurus, known for its relentless stubbornness. You may be strongly triggered by somebody trying to get their own way and resorting to some quite unexpectedly tough ways of getting it. There are some deep emotions involved, you may feel misunderstood and hurt, so give yourself some space to avoid getting sucked into a damaging battle of wills.
November 23 – December 22
There’s not a lot left of the crazy social Gemini energy from last month but Jupiter is still giving you some reasons to be pretty optimistic about your future. You are going to have to make adjustments, though, as family and home may be making demands on you that you’d rather not have to deal with.
December 23 – January 20
You prefer to be ambitious and are always looking for ways upward and forward in your life. You like to set yourself goals and then achieve them. Now, however, might not be the best time for this. Instead of climbing the mountains, maybe chill out at base camp and relax. You may find there is a lot to be gained by letting go of your goals for the moment.
January 21 – February 19
As Pluto retreats back in Capricorn for the last time, you may experience that feeling of being ‘on hold’, like a plane waiting for permission to land (or take off). You may have been making decent progress as you uncover your true values, but this month is very much for letting go of whatever you define as progress. The new moon is in a water sign in July so see if you can just feel the love.
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
February 20 – March 20
Neptune is close to ending its apparently interminable time in Pisces, so this is a last chance to find your watery creative self and release yourself from past pressures and life difficulties. Saturn ought to be helping you out here but it seems just to be making things worse. It’s not like you to like boundaries but you could sure use a few now!
March 21 – April 20
Your sign is fire and the cancer new moon is in a water sign on 5th. Either fire boils water or water puts out fire. Which is it, I wonder? Cancer is also all about nurturing and love and this is a definite flavour of this moment but pursuing love with too much ardour and too little sensitivity isn’t going to work so a more subtle approach is needed. Good luck!
April 21 – May 21
Repetitive tasks around the home and family can be done with focused energy this month although a few spanners may get thrown into the works now and again. There is a lot to be gained by sticking at the job in hand. Luckily you’re actually very good at this kind of thing so you will probably end the month feeling pretty satisfied with what you have achieved.
May 22 – June 21
Only Jupiter remains in your sign after the social whirl that was June. Maybe you’ve learnt something important recently. This month it’s much more about caring for those around you close to your home which may not feel all that exciting. If you get bored, just invite people round to help you with jobs that you can’t face doing. And then have a party afterwards!
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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