NN Pulse magazine December 2022

ome people have really clever ideas. For example, Groundwork Northamptonshire is coordinating growing

vegetables from seed for food banks across the county. Even better, they are using three Victorian glass houses in the Walled Garden at Delapré Abbey and working with volunteers from local businesses and community groups. Great work!

If you’re interested in the Abbey’s story you can find out more in Laura Malpas’s fascinating exploration of nine centuries of history, including the Earls of Northampton and the Nunnery of St Mary de la Pré which became Delapré Abbey.

At this time of year, we can look forward to beanstalks, fairies and magic lamps. You could win tickets for a family of four to Jack and the Beanstalk at the Derngate or you can head over to the Castle Theatre in Wellingborough for an alternative version. There’s Potted Panto and Santa’s Christmas Rescue at The Core in Corby, or Snow White at The Old Savoy in Northampton and at Milton Keynes Theatre. There are many other festive frivolities as well, so be sure to browse the ‘What’s On’ pages.

For their year-round hard work our thanks should go to the award winning Northamptonshire Health Charity which has been recognised as Charity of the Year by the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and Northamptonshire Business Awards. They work tirelessly to provide equipment and deliver projects that benefit patients and support the wellbeing of local NHS staff. There’s still time to contribute to the charity’s Christmas gifts for patients initiative.

Another local project that’s especially important at this time of year is Animals in Need at Little Irchester. Like all of us they are affected by increased costs and there’s less giving to help them support dogs and cats and even pigs and goats. Find out how you could help.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9552 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

Fresh, locally grown produce is being sown in a trio of Victorian glass houses within the Walled Garden at Delapré Abbey in Northampton, nurturing ‘plug plants’ - young plants which can then be transplanted to containers or gardens.

Food is also being grown in the abbey’s vegetable beds, with volunteers from local businesses and community groups helping to sow, seed, water and distribute.

“The young plants, fruit and vegetables will be put on sale and distributed to food banks.”

Said Groundwork Northamptonshire’s green manager Nathan Wearn-Hutter. “They will also go to schools and families in order that children in particular can learn to grow their own produce at home.”

The project is being funded by real estate investor and developer Firethorn Trust and will run until October next year. Currently growing is a host of winter produce, from onions and garlic to winter salads, rocket, beetroot and herbs. In spring, potatoes, carrots, salads, tomatoes, sweetcorn, and pumpkins will be sown.

“By next spring we aim to have an electric assisted cargo tricycle so that we can deliver produce to food banks, schools, community centres and families,” said Mr Wearn-Hutter. “We are committed to helping as many people as possible, particularly children, grow fruit and vegetables from home.”

Firethorn Trust partner Chris Webb says its support is part of a long-term charitable partnership with Groundwork. “As a real estate investor and developer, we are committed to

Back to the land as project bids to tackle food crisis

Fruit and vegetables are being grown from seed and distributed to food banks and people in need across Northamptonshire as part of a new project being co-ordinated by Groundwork Northamptonshire.

supporting the local areas in which we invest and develop and the community hub garden at Delapré Abbey will provide training, food growing and food distribution to those most in need.

“We hope it will become a valued resource for the local community and create a dedicated space for people to garden, grow and access nature together.”

Delapré Abbey chief executive Richard Clinton says: “This is the perfect example of partnership working, utilising our grounds and growing produce that will not only support food banks such as Food Aid Far Cotton but also help people learn new growing and planting skills. Some of the fruit and vegetables will also go to our own kitchens.”

>> To find out more, email Mr WearnHutter at Nathan.Wearn-Hutter@ groundwork.org.uk

Nathan Wearn-Hutter and Louise Williams from Groundwork Northamptonshire

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile.

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

Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to risk their windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the road, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glazing unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you

double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.

have any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.

When talking to Trevor & Wendy Skidmore the owners of Cloudy2Clear Northampton & Oxford it became clear that these values have been held for over 15 years. Since buying the local franchise in 2006 they have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community whilst introducing their 2 sons Lloyd & Ross & daughter-in-law Lori into the family business along with Dan, Mark & Jo as demand for their service has grown.

When talking to Trevor & Wendy Skidmore the owners of Cloudy2Clear Northampton & Oxford it became clear that these values have been held for over 15 years. Since buying the local franchise in 2006 they have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community whilst introducing their two sons Lloyd & Ross & daughter-in-law Lori into the family business along with Dan, Tom, Lewis & Jo as demand for their service has grown.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Trevor commented: “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

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

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

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

All C2C employees operate a strict social distancing policy.

Merry Christmas from Bluebird Care

For many people questions about care don’t arise until, suddenly, there is a need. Many people assume the only options are living self-sufficiently or going into residential care.

However, Bluebird Care has a solution which allows our customers to live full, interesting lives and still stay within the comfort of their own home. You may just need an extra pair of hands to help with daily chores, or you may have more complex needs that require specialist care. We will build an individualised care package to ensure that you and your family can rest assured that you’ll receive care and support exactly as you need it.

Bluebird Care staff are highly trained and will listen, understand and show compassion. We understand that high quality care is not just physical but also mental, emotional and social support. That is why our visits vary in length and type from personal care and domestic support to shopping and social visits.

We can offer anything from a 30 minute visit to round the clock or live in care. Those with learning disabilities, postoperative support, and of course, care for older people – all are able to receive specialist and professional care. We employ carers whose hearts are in the job – because when it comes to giving care, that’s what matters.

>> Bluebird Care are always looking for dedicated carers to join their team. If you are searching for a rewarding career where you can enable people to live life to the full, please contact Sian on 01604 312182.

ABOUT BLUEBIRD CARE

David Howard opened Bluebird Care Milton Keynes in 2011 and has prided himself on providing outstanding care, personalised to each customer. The company is now one of the leading care agencies in the area, supporting people with everything from companionship to more complex care needs.

David has since been joined by his daughter, Catherine, and in 2021, they expanded the business to provide services across Northampton and Daventry.

We have a growing customer base in Northampton and the surrounding villages and are lucky to have a small, dedicated team of care staff. Our Care Manager, Ninitha Thomas, Supervisor, Gemma Wilson and the rest of the office team are here to ensure that the service we provide goes beyond simply providing a carer – we will work with you to help you live the life you want and deserve.

If you, or a relative of yours is looking for care then please contact Ninitha, Gemma, or anyone else in our office on 01604 312182.

Care in your home, just as you like it

You love your home and you feel safe there. Needing additional care and support shouldn’t change that.

With our well-trusted care service, you can remain at home surrounded by loved ones and beloved pets and still enjoy your home, garden and community.

With such a personal service, you will want to engage with people you can trust, who are highly trained, who listen, understand and show compassion. Our team deliver all of this and more.

L-R: Catherine, Gemma, Ninitha, Angela, Sian, Beata and David from Bluebird Care

Sue Cardy Curtains & Soft Furnishings

Quality, made-to-measure curtains, blinds and soft furnishings, competitively priced to suit all budgets. Small enough to care, big enough to cope, from a single window to a complete house.

Visit www.suecardy.com or follow me on @SueCardyCurtainsSoftFurnishings for ideas and find out more about the services we can offer you.

View our range of fabrics, poles and blinds at our workshop by appointment or we can visit your home with a selection of fabrics.

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The treatment I received from Mr Aldrich has been outstanding he’s changed my life and he is a brilliant consultant.

For more information or to book an appointment call us on 01604 620311 or visit circlehealthgroup.co.uk/threeshires

The business of divorce

It’s, not a subject ‘front of mind’ for most owners of businesses but good advice is especially important where a business and its assets are involved, if it comes to divorce.

Furthermore, in April 2022, there were big changes in divorce law with the introduction of ‘no fault divorce’ – previously, someone had to be at fault or wait of a minimum of two years!

There are some interesting numbers from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), although many have been affected by the lasting impact of the pandemic on the Family Court.

• In 2021, there were 113,505 divorces granted in England and Wales, a 9.5% increase compared with 2020.

• For opposite-sex divorces in 2021, the median duration of marriage at divorce was 12.3 years, an increase compared with 11.9 years in 2020.

Where a business forms part of the matrimonial assets, it is often necessary to ascertain its value. This can be complicated, determined by the business’ assets, earning and structure. The instruction of an expert is therefore sometimes required to assist with that calculation, which can be a significant additional cost to the process.

Many wrongly believe that a business is a “non-matrimonial” asset, considering it to be an entity in its own right which should therefore have no impact on a financial settlement. However, while the business

If the business was established before the marriage, was inherited, or significantly grows after separation due to your efforts, there is a discretionary argument that such value should be ‘ring-fenced’ (i.e. excluded) from the final settlement, however the “needs” of your spouse may take priority.

Some business owners are shocked to be informed that the Court has the power to order a sale of a business. However, this is quite rare. The Court has a wide range of discretion when deciding upon an appropriate settlement, and will always attempt to ensure the business remains with the owner, offsetting that value with a larger award of the remaining assets to the other party.

With one of the largest, best resourced Family Law Teams in the region – call

Positive change from the power of sport for Northampton’s young people

Young people across Northampton are being encouraged to take part in FREE sports activities that will help create a positive change in their lives.

The programme has been running since 2005 and is managed by Trilogy Leisure in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council.

“Northampton Streets Sports programme aims to create a positive change in the lives of young people across the town through the power of sport,” said John Fletcher, the managing director of Trilogy Leisure. “Sessions are free and provide young people aged between 8-18 an opportunity to participate in sport in a safe and welcoming environment, right on their doorsteps.”

Trilogy Leisure operates Cripps Recreation Centre, Danes Camp, Duston Sports Centre, Lings Forum, The Mounts Baths and the Forum Cinema as well as Berzerk Soft Play Centre.

The programme utilises multi use games areas in the local community and is led by qualified activator coaches and volunteers. Sports range from football and basketball to dodgeball and more, with participation and fun at its heart.

In April 2021-March 2022 post the Covid-19 pandemic there were 3241

attended sessions with 345 children attending regular sessions and 389 volunteer hours.

“The project helps to provide young people with positive opportunities to participate in structured activities,” John Fletcher from Trilogy Leisure continued. “It is founded on the belief that sport can broaden horizons, teach valuable life skills, and bring people together.”

The programme was relaunched in April 2021, post pandemic, and over that year saw 3241 visits with over 340 young people attending the sessions regularly.

With more than 50% of young adults in England not achieving the recommended daily amount of exercise, this is a step in the right direction.

Street sports sessions are currently running in Eastfield, Thorplands and King’s Health but the programme is in an exciting phase of expansion and additional locations will be added soon.

>> Information on the programme and sessions can be found on the Trilogy Leisure website or you can email Rachel Collings rachel.collings@nltrust.org.uk

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

I empower my clients to make informed decisions so they can move on positively.

I can help people at any stage of their relationship to protect their wealth and position. My approach is focused on finding constructive ways to resolve family issues, providing clear and realistic advice.

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We offer you advice and information about all the ‘Moments that Matter’, from beginning a relationship and buying your first home, to planning for your later years. Take a look at our website today: www.hcrlaw.com

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THE

The Sisters of St Mary, De La Pré

When driving through bustling Northampton in a residential area full of traffic, supermarkets and light industry, there is a big surprise awaiting those who turn onto a quiet leafy green drive. Suddenly, you find yourself in the huge grounds of an ancient country estate. It’s an absolute wow! Writes Laura Malpas.

The story of Delapré Abbey begins nearly nine hundred years ago, when three generations of the de Senlis family, Earls of Northampton, and great benefactors to the town, built the castle, the church of the Holy Sepulchre, St Peter’s Marefair, and St Andrew’s Priory and the Nunnery of St Mary de la Pré, (eventually known as Delapré Abbey).

Both the Priory and the Nunnery belonged to the French Cluniac monastic tradition, but whilst the monks of St Andrews lived and worshipped inside the mediaeval town walls of Northampton, the sisters of St Mary were housed outside the town, on the opposite bank of the river Nene ‘in the meadow’, ‘de la pré’ in French.

It was a relatively small community, with fewer than twenty nuns at any one time. Life was highly regulated and total obedience was required. The focus of the Cluniac tradition was on continual prayer, demanding worship eight times per day in a strict timetable of daily offices. One of the primary roles of the nuns was to say daily prayers for the soul of the first Simon de Senlis, the father of the abbey’s benefactor. The Abbey church became an important focus in the area, with the nuns providing safe accommodation for travellers, an infirmary for the sick, and food, bread and fish, for the poor and needy.

In December 1290, the nuns of the Abbey hosted a Royal visitor. Sadly, the beloved queen of Edward I, Eleanor of Castile, had died whilst on a journey through the Midlands. She passed away in Lincolnshire, and her bereft husband wished to bury her with the greatest ceremony.

Entrance to Delapré Abbey

Her body was transported to London in an elaborate procession, and at every overnight stopping place Edward commanded a cross be raised to mark the route of the cortege. It would have been a privilege for the sisters of the Abbey of St Mary De la Pré to watch over the queen on her final journey, the Abbess Margery de Wollaston gathering her nuns for the overnight vigil. The recently restored Eleanor Cross can still be seen today on London Road outside Delapré.

The next time the Abbey of St Mary de la Pré enters the chronicles of England’s history is on 10th July 1460, in what became known as the Battle of Northampton, the first significant encounter in the Wars of the Roses. This battle was fought all around the Abbey, and it must have been a terrifying experience for the nuns and the Abbess Gonora Doughton.

Watching the battle unfold from the vantage point of the Eleanor Cross, were the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Italian Francisco Coppini sent by the Pope as a diplomat to negotiate peace between the embattled Houses of York and Lancaster. As the two men looked down to the Abbey and the meadows of the Nene, they would have seen well over twenty thousand men ready to fight.

Then Coppini raised the standard of the Pope and struck fear into the hearts of the men supporting the King. Coppini announced excommunication for any who were killed fighting for Lancastrian King Henry VI forbidding them a Christian burial. Any killed fighting for Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick and the Yorkist heir Edward would be forgiven their sins. This was a demoralising blow for the King’s men in this time when dying a blessed death meant a heavenly afterlife, and excommunication would have resulted in eternal damnation.

The meadows around the abbey witnessed a violent and bloody battle, no doubt the nuns were praying for the souls of those who were falling in battle around them. The Yorkists prevailed, and Lancastrian King Henry was captured and imprisoned in the Abbey, where he heard mass and prayed. The dead

numbered in the thousands. Many bodies were carried away by the river, and many may still lie undiscovered. Of course, King Henry’s Lancastrian soldiers were forbidden burial on consecrated ground, so no doubt their dead were buried close to where they fell, probably in grave pits well away from the Nuns.

The last time the nuns of the Abbey of St Mary de la Pré appear in history is at the time of the Reformation, when in 1536 Henry VIII ordered the dissolution of the monasteries. This was a catastrophic event for all religious institutions, and despite vigorous attempts to resist closure by Clemencia Stock, the very last Abbess, the nunnery was closed. She had managed to hold out for two years and negotiated pensions for the women before they were turned out of the Abbey.

After the closure, the Abbey passed into private hands, and its subsequent history will be the subject of further articles, as there is so much to learn and enjoy.

In 2018 after a turbulent history, Delapré Abbey was fully restored and opened for the community it once served to enjoy today. The property is run by the Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust with a small staff team and around 120 dedicated volunteers. Volunteers cover all sorts of roles, from tending the grounds and gardening, looking after visitors, helping with events, and acting as guides. And of course, the volunteers take a very active role in researching the rich and fascinating stories of the ancient place they are supporting. Volunteers have uncovered tales of scandal, intrigue, and romance.

In a pleasing symmetry, during Covid a small team of women volunteers decided to discover more about the community of Cluniac nuns who lived there for the first four hundred years of Delapré’s history. Volunteers Antoinette, Brigitte, Chris, Jo, Vera and Violetta researched into the lives of the nuns and Abbesses, uncovering many previously untold stories, and providing the basis for this article. They also discovered more about the infirmary and provided information for the mediaeval herb garden and its potential for curing the sick. This research can be seen displayed in an engaging exhibition which has appeal for all the family.

Volunteer research is always ongoing, and results are shared with the public in many ways. There are tours that I am very much looking forward to, ‘The Mystery of the Lady in the Library’, and ‘Scandalous Georgians’ in particular! At this time of year there are many Christmassy events to look forward to, including candlelit tours of the house, visiting Santa’s Grotto and an illuminated winter woodland trail which continues into January.

If the idea of joining this vibrant volunteering community appeals to you, there are opportunities for all sorts of roles, the team there will give you a warm welcome and all the training you need. What a great start to the New Year!

For more information about Delapré Abbey, events, or volunteering, please visit www.delapreabbey.org

Enjoying the winter woodland trail

Delapré volunteers acting as Cluniac nuns

'Tis the season to be jolly!

It's Christmas time, mistletoe and panto! Tall tales of taller beanstalks, fairies and magic lamps, and of good trouncing evil – with an accompaniment of giggles, boos and song. Christmas just wouldn't be the same without a trip to panto-land. Pulse's Sammy Jones picked up her magic wand to bring you the best of the shows happening where you are...

Panto: Jack and the Beanstalk

Starring: Keala Settle from The Greatest Showman, Horrible Histories' Richard David-Caine and Alex Lodge as Jack Where: Northampton Derngate

When: Friday, December 9, 2022 – Monday, January 2, 2023

What to expect: The wonderful story of Jack and the Beanstalk, with a vocal powerhouse and Tony Award-nominee as a Fairy. Naturally.

They say: “I am absolutely thrilled to be appearing in my first ever pantomime,” said Keala, “Panto is such a beloved institution in this country and I have always wanted to be a part of one...I can't wait!”

Who's it for? Round-up the whole family, call up your pals or come alone – it's for everyone.

And another thing: Bob Golding was a hit with audiences last year when he joined Ricky Champ at Derngate to star in Dick Whittington. He proved so popular that the venue is welcoming him back for the 2022 season.

Get tickets: royalandderngate.co.uk

WIN TICKETS

to see Jack and the Beanstalk turn to page 46

Panto: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Starring: Rob Rinder, Lesley Joseph and Paul Chuckle

Where: Milton Keynes Theatre

When: Saturday, December 10, 2022 – Sunday, January 8, 2023

What to expect: A real treat with this magical version of the classic fairytale with side-splitting comedy, sensational special effects and festive magic in abundance as Rob and Lesley reprise their roles from last year's show in Bristol.

They say: “After last year's joyous Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, it felt terribly wrong to keep my magic mirror in Bristol,” said Rob, “I'm delighted to be sharing my sparkling reflections with the people of Milton Keynes this year...Lesley Joseph's Wicked Queen should beware!”

Who's it for? It's family friendly fabulousness all the way!

And another thing: Special effects are once again being built for the production by The Twins FX who are at the top of their game. You are in for a treat.

Get tickets: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Hi Ho! it's off to Milton Keynes Theatre the cast of Snow White go

Fee-fi-fo-fum... lots of fun for the whole family at Northampton Derngate

Panto: Potted Panto

Starring: Dan and Jeff - the same clever duo who delivered Potted Potter Where: The Core, Corby When: Wednesday, December 7- Sunday, December 11, 2022

What to expect: Seven classic pantomimes "potted" into 70 madcap minutes. A dastardly duo brings you all the biggest stories and best-loved characters from the wonderful world of pantomime, in one show. It has enjoyed rave reviews and multiple festive runs in London over 12 years, and visits Corby for just four days before returning to the West End.

They say: "I, Prince Charming, am readying my horse for a fleeting yet magical visit in Corby with Potted Panto this festive season. I am also readying my udders, my feather boa, my beak, my rat and my bucket of poo - come and join me, you'll see. Huzzah for me!"

Who's it for? Like all the best pantos, there is something for all ages with lots of chances to join in and plenty of laughs for the whole family. And with so much in so little time, there is absolutely no chance of boredom setting in!

And another thing: The show's creators, Dan and Jeff presented CBBC for 18 months in their younger days and have received not one, but two Olivier Award nominations for their family shows.

Get tickets: thecorecorby.com

Starring: Britain's Got Talent stars Ashleigh Butler and her sidekick, Sully, children's comedian and entertainer Mark Jones and TikTok sensation Patrick

Where: The Old Savoy, Northampton

When: Friday, December 9 – Saturday, December 31, 2022

What to expect: A traditional pantomime with festive fun and jokes for the whole family.

They say: “I'm incredibly excited to be playing Snow White,” Ashleigh said, “It's a truly magical way to enjoy the festive season, and Sully is really 'yappy' to be joining the cast too!”

Who's it for? All ages – from babes in arms to those who are 106!

And another thing: Snow White was the very first full-length that Disney ever made – it took around three years to reach completion.

Get tickets: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Panto:

The Night Before Christmas

Starring: Members of Polka Theatre

Where: Northampton Underground

When: Friday, November 25 –Saturday, December 31, 2022

Panto: Jack and the Beanstalk

Starring: Matt Montfort, Elizabeth Armstrong, Adam

Borzone, Sarafina Doussay, Will Frazer and Daisy the Cow

Where: Castle Theatre, Wellingborough

When: Saturday, December 3 - Saturday, December 31, 2022

What to expect: Take your seat for a trip deep into the world of fairy tales, where poor hero Jack and his dotty mum Dame Trott are tricked into selling their beloved cow Daisy for a useless bag of beans.

They say: “Laugh at Silly Simon, boo and hiss the wicked Fleshcreep and cheer me on as I try to rescue my sweetheart Jill from the nasty castle in the clouds,” invited Jack.

Who's it for? It's 'fe fi fo fun' for the whole family.

And another thing: Will and Adam are back on the Castle stage following a successful run in 2021, and Elizabeth has just been on the road touring in Hairspray

Get tickets: castletheatre.co.uk or call 01933 270007

What to expect: This enchanting show will bring to life this treasured festive poem as audiences follow Father Christmas and his reindeer on their busy Christmas Eve journey.

They say: “I have a busy night ahead, so come and join me as I make sure every last present is delivered on time!” said Santa's Reindeer, Blitzen.

Who's it for? This magical show is ideal for under 7s and their grown ups.

And another thing: In December the Underground foyer area will be transformed into a space full of fun activities, so remember to leave time to hang out and play before and after the performance.

Get tickets: royalandderngate.co.uk

Some day her Prince will come - Ashleigh and Sully star at the Old Savoy

The Potted Panto brings some fun and mayhem to the Core at Corby

Panto: Snow White

Lewin.

The Night Before Christmas

Jack's back at the Castle Theatre in Wellingborough

Panto: Aladdin

Starring: Holby City and Eastenders' favourite Davood Ghadami, Andy Collins from BBC Three Counties and Britain's Got Talent star La Voix

Where: Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

When: Friday, December 2, 2022 – Monday, January 2, 2023

What to expect: Davood will be putting the 'oo' into the boo-able baddie Abanazar in this year's seasonal show, and he'll be joined by returning cast members Andy and La Voix.

They say: “I have heard amazing things about the Waterside's panto and have been forewarned that the audiences are likely to give me a good ol' booing I'm ready to be a baddie in a league of my own...get practising your hisses and I'll look forward to meeting you this Christmas.”

Who's it for? Family fun by the lamp-load is on the way

And another thing: Davood appeared in the 15th series of Strictly Come Dancing, where he reached the quarter finals with dance partner Nadiya Bychkova.

Get tickets: atgtickets.com/aylesbury

Panto: Treasure Island

Starring: Fine folks from Open Theatre Group & Tread the Boards

Where: The Hub Theatre, the Open University

When: Friday, December 16 – Thursday, December 22

What to expect: A swashbuckling adventure by Ben Crocker bursting with traditional slapstick, song and dance and opportunities for boos and cheers aplenty.

They say: “It will be wonderful to see the auditorium busy and to be able to have an interval after such a challenging time last year,” says director Annette Probert.

Who's it for? Panto loving people who want to have a good time. And another thing: Treasure Island was planned for last Christmas, but Covid complications meant an alternative one-hour show was staged, called RATS!

Get tickets: ticketsource.co.uk/opentheatregroup

Panto: Santa's Christmas Rescue

Starring: Santa, of course!

Where: The Core, Corby

Panto: The Christmas Show: The Adventures of The Little Red Hen

Starring: Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company

Where: The Stables, Milton Keynes

When: Monday, December 19 –Saturday December 24, 2022

What to expect: An energetic adaptation of this much loved story, featuring a breathtaking combination of brilliant puppetry, live music and unforgettable comedy.

They say: “Who will help me plant these grains of wheat?” “Not I” said the Pig. “Not I” said the Rat. “Not I” said the Cow.

“Fair enough,” said the Little Red Hen, “I’ll do it myself!”

Who's it for? “The show is suitable for all the family, but particularly aimed at children aged three to 10 years. We always receive feedback from audiences that whole families have enjoyed our shows,” said Stuff and Nonsense, “We have lots of grandparents treating grandchildren, and lots of 'littlies' for whom it’s their first theatre trip. We make sure that there is something for everyone to enjoy, whatever their age.” Get tickets: stables.org

When: Monday, December 12 – Saturday, December 24, 2022

What to expect: Santa’s Christmas Rescue is an interactive story-based show full of wellknown songs for children and parents to join in with.

They say: “Ho, ho ho! Rudolph, myself and the elves cannot wait to see you all at Santa’s Christmas Rescue this December!” says Santa, keeping it to the point.

Who's it for? Pre-school children and their families will love this show.

And another thing: After the performance, Santa and the Elves will stick around to meet you all, and children will receive a gift.

Get tickets: thecorecorby.com

Wishes come true at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre in Aladdin

Arrrrgh me hearties! There be a motley crew at the OU in MIlton Keynes

The Adventures of The Little Red Hen

Santa's Christmas Rescue

Local NHS Charity wins Charity of the Year Award

In July this year, Northamptonshire Health Charity was named Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce Charity of the Year for 2022/23 and to follow this up the charity has just won the Charity of the Year award at the 2022 Northamptonshire Business Awards. The team works hard all year round to fund equipment, projects and initiatives to enhance patient care and experience, and support the wellbeing of local NHS staff.

Alison McCulloch, Head of Fundraising at the charity said, “We are absolutely thrilled to have won the Charity of the Year award. It means such a lot to be recognised for the work we do to support our local NHS. Thank you to the sponsors of the award,

Business Times, and well done to all the other finalists and winners! It was a great night celebrating Northamptonshire businesses.

I would also like to take the opportunity to thank all of our donors, fundraisers and supporters – it is thanks to you that we can make a difference to patients and staff at Northampton General, Kettering General and the community and mental health hospitals and services under Northamptonshire Healthcare Foundation Trust.”

Appeal launched to enhance facilities for bereaved parents

The charity recently launched a new fundraising appeal for the Daisy Suite at Northampton General Hospital to enhance the facilities that support families who experience the devastating loss of a baby.

The bereavement midwives at the hospital said, “Each year we care for over 100 families who suffer the heartbreak of losing their baby. We provide a safe space that feels protected for delivery and care whilst in hospital. Having a dedicated space to continue this protection for follow up care for families, will further enhance the support we provide and make such a difference to these families, at what is a very distressing time.”

To find out more information about the Daisy Suite Appeal and how you can get involved visit the charity’s website at: https://northamptonshirehealthcharity. co.uk/appeals/daisy-suite-appeal-ngh/

Northampton High School, we believe in a complete education that’s made for girls and young women. Everything about our school is carefully considered from our purpose-built site to our inspirational teachers and our first-class pastoral care. Our school is bursting with spirited students who we encourage to learn without limits. We’re not here to pigeonhole or conform to stereotypes. Instead, we encourage our girls to be curious and independent, resilient and brave; to lead and be individuals whilst recognising the value of collaboration and teamwork. In doing so, we turn “can we?” into “we can!”, unleashing the potential in a generation of girls and young women who can go on and define a future on their own terms. Book your personal tour today to see Northampton High School in action. northamptonhigh.co.uk/visit us | 01604 765765

invite you to visit us for a personal tour, to see how Northampton High School turns ‘Can We?’ into ‘We Can!’ Book your visit: northamptonhigh.co.uk | 01604 765765

What happens when there’s no room at the inn?

Animals in Need (AIN) is an exceptional rescue centre in a far from exceptional situation; like many other charities, the cost of living crisis has had a devastating impact, and it is struggling to make ends meet. As the festive season approaches, the Little Irchester charity is hoping for a Christmas miracle of its own, as Pulse’s Sammy Jones found out.

If it feels like animal rescues centres are always hands cupped asking for your support, it’s because they are; demand for their services has grown, and continues to grow, exponentially.

As they receive no official funding, the issue of how to move safely through these choppy financial waters becomes more of a concern. They rely on their small army of fundraisers and volunteers to keep going, and Animals in Need is no exception.

But when people are struggling to put food on the table, or to meet spiralling energy costs, support is falling.

At the same time that donations are dwindling, bills are rising for the charity too. And so are the numbers of animals being brought in.

AIN is experiencing its toughest times since opening its doors in 1990. The outlook is bleak, and Animals in Need has had to turn animals away, something they never thought they’d have to do.

“It’s by far the worst it has ever been,” founder Roy Marriott told Pulse, “At 1.45am this morning someone messaged me wanting us to take their dog because the breeder they had bought it from wouldn’t take it back.

“We’re dealing with sentient beings and yet they are being given up like items of bric-a-brac because people take them on and then realise they can’t afford them.

“It’s devastating, because if we can’t accommodate them here, where do they go? What do desperate people do? It’s an

It’s Christmas time, mistletoe and ‘whine’ - some of the boys and girls looking for a loving new home

Animal Angels - AIN founder Roy and wife Annie

enormous worry and unfortunately we aren’t unique – rescue centres the country over are facing the same decisions on a daily basis.”

And you can rest assured that there are no fat salaries paid here - the Pine Farm site is owned by the charity, but only because Roy and wife Annie sold their homes, adding the proceeds to public money donated to purchase the land.

The dedicated duo don’t just work on site, they live there; animal welfare is a 24/7 business and you simply won’t find a couple more committed to the cause.

But the realities of falling support are impossible to ignore: “So far we’ve experienced a drop in donations of around 40%, and cash donations have fallen by half,” Annie said, “We invest every penny we receive into the welfare and care of the animals, and we were never in a position to

have great cash reserves, so this crisis has hit us hard,” she said, “With energy price increases and the fall in donations, things are incredibly tough just now. No matter how difficult things get, we have 100s of beautiful animals to feed and care for. In many cases they have already been failed, and we will not let them down again, no matter how hard things get.”

But the constant worry of how to make ends meet is taking a toll.

“I go to bed worried about what will happen to the animals...I do feel like I’m failing and it is absolutely exhausting, both physically and mentally,” she admitted, “It’s awful having to turn away new arrivals, but we just do not have the space for all of them.”

Animals in Need currently has close to 60 dogs and 50 cats and kittens in its care –and it’s not only feline and canine mouths to feed. That would be a breeze.

Hogging the limelight: One of the hedgehogs currently being cared for by AIN. Numbers of these countryside beauties are in sharp decline

All creatures are equal at Animals in Needand bunnies, piggies and ratties are among the current residents

“We have just had 13 tortoises come in,” Roy said, “People are simply saying they can’t afford to keep them any longer, and hand them to us.

“It’s nothing that I haven’t said before, but if you are in a position to welcome a new pet into your home, I implore you to please, please re-home from a rescue centre. Buying from a breeder increases the numbers of unwanted animals and lines the pockets of the sellers. If you engage with that, then you are part of the problem. Alternatively, re-homing from us makes you part of the solution. It also means that you give an animal a second chance at life, which is a rich reward.

“Responsible rescue centres like ours will ensure that you are well-matched with your new family member, and they will be neutered, ID chipped and vaccinated, so you don’t need to worry about that. The donation we ask for is much less that a breeder will charge, and that money will go back into helping other animals. It really is a no-brainer.

“We will survive because the commitment from everyone involved here is resolute, but we aren’t too proud to reach out to the community,” Roy added.

“We’re here for the animals in need, but now, more than ever, Animals in Need needs you to help us help them.”

These beautiful little kittens and their mum were recently found dumped in Bozeat and taken to Animals in Need by a member of the public, who found them roaming around.

Happily, they were picked up before falling foul of the cold weather, hunger, traffic or any number of other nasty situations.

The charity has named the mum Marie, and the kittens, Nora and Oliver.

But behind the fluffy image is a reminder of the important work that Animals in Need does - they save lives, and bring hope where otherwise there would be none.

Thanks to the staff and volunteers at AIN, Nora, Oliver and Marie will now have a brighter future - which is simply meow-vellous. But for every kitty in their care, there is another in need...

How you can help...

Donate for Christmas

Why not make a charitable donation on behalf of friends and family this Christmas?

It’s better than shelling out on the usual choccies and smellies, means you don’t have to get messy with the Christmas wrapping paper and sellotape, and your donations will help raise some festive cheer.

Sponsor an animal

An easy present for a loved one that will make a real difference. Choose from Peanut the pig, puddy-tats Inky and Ed, Rocky the sheep, Hatton the pooch or one of the many others available.

For a sponsorship application form drop an email to admin@animals-inneed.org or if you are in the vicinity, pop to their reception.

Stuck for a stocking-filler?

Everyone needs a 2023 calendar, but few are as cute as the Animals in Need’s slim month to view wall calendar, featuring 12 of the charity’s charming rescues. Purchase in reception or online.

Donate a goodie bag or a Christmas box

Animals who don’t have a fur-ever home will be spending Christmas at the sanctuary, but staff will make sure they have a festive time of it –and you can help.

Once again, members of the public are being invited to make up a gift package for one of the animals in their care; you could make one for a cat, dog, rabbit, guinea pig, ferret, rat, chicken or bird.

Simple fill a shoe box (or similar) with food, treats, toys and a blanket or a towel. Your effort will make an animal feel warm, dry and happy, which is priceless.

Foster an animal

If you are in the position to offer your home to an animal on a foster basis, AIN will pay for all food, bedding and veterinary care. You simply give the gift of security and love.

You must live within an hour of AIN and hold a driving licence – in case of the need for veterinary trips. Please note; the charity is unable to place foster animals in homes with young children.

Set up a standing order

£1 a week (or monthly) will still help to keep bellies full. If everyone reading this article were able to do that, the difference it would make would be phenomenal.

If you would like to set up a standing order, the account you need is:

‘Animals in Need Northamptonshire.’

Sort Code: 08-90-73

Account No: 50304604

Volunteer

If you aren’t scared of mucking in (or perhaps that should read mucking out) and hard work, AIN can always use the support. Cleaning out pens and scrubbing out food bowls isn’t glamorous, but it is essential. Or perhaps you would like to help with dog walking, or have fab DIY skills.

You’ll go home knowing that you’ve made a real difference – and the team is fab.

> For more information visit animals-in-need.org or call on 01933 278080

FB: @AnimalsInNeedMaxicare

Every penny really does help right noweven a standing order of £1 a week (or monthly) will help the charity. Thank you.

Gynaecology is the study of the female reproductive system –this includes the uterus, ovaries, cervix and vagina. The functions, medical disorders and diseases of the female reproductive system all fall under the heading of gynaecology.

Our gynaecologists can assist with menstrual problems, fibroids, ovarian cysts, cervical polyps, endometriosis, POS, Vulva problems, prolapses and hysterectomies plus many other conditions.

Women’s Health Services

Common reasons why you should come and see a gynaecologist:

Heavy periods

Bleeding between periods

Intermittent or irregular periods

Abdominal or pelvic pain during or between periods

Itching or burning and irregular discharge

Urogynaecology is the study of the female pelvic organs. Whether you have an overactive bladder, bladder weakness, pelvic organ prolapses, we can help. Our consultants and women’s health physio are on hand to help.

NORTHAMPTON

29 Billing Road

Northampton NN1 5DQ 01604 622101

KETTERING

18 Brooklands Court

Kettering Venture Park

Kettering NN15 6FD 01536 523434

bmtclaw.co.uk

Is my prenuptial agreement binding?

If you are facing difficulties in your marriage and you have a prenuptial agreement, you may be curious to know just how binding the terms will be, especially if your life is now rather different to the one you envisaged when you planned to get married.

‘One of the main reasons people enter a prenuptial agreement is to protect wealth from outside the marriage, such as a business or an inheritance,’ says Diana Rose, solicitor at Borneo Martell Turner Coulston. ‘It can be helpful to obtain certainty in regard to the financial position should the marriage come to an end.’

It is important that anyone contemplating a divorce or who has concerns about an agreement has a lawyer examine their prenuptial agreement.

Will the family court uphold my prenuptial agreement?

In England and Wales there is no law specifying that a prenuptial agreement is legally binding. However, after a landmark decision in 2010 the courts decided that they would give weight to prenuptial agreements under certain circumstances. This provides some reassurance that, if done correctly, an agreement is likely to be upheld in court.

Is my agreement valid?

One of our specialist family lawyers can examine your prenuptial agreement and discuss with you the circumstances surrounding when the agreement was signed.

There are several factors which could be detrimental to the agreement being upheld, namely:

• If the agreement was entered too close to the wedding day, as it is expected that the agreement should be signed at least three weeks before the big day - any closer and you run the risk that the court will think it was unfair.

• If either you and/or your former spouse allege that you were put under duress to sign the agreement.

• If you and/or your spouse did not obtain independent legal advice on your entitlements.

Can I renegotiate our prenuptial agreement?

People’s lives will change throughout their marriage, and no one can predict at the outset what curve balls you may be thrown. Sometimes a prenuptial agreement entered many years ago may no longer be an agreement you are content with.

You can renegotiate the terms of your prenuptial agreement during the course of your marriage. To do this, you will both be required to engage separate legal representatives and make a full and frank disclosure of your assets.

Can I apply to the court to disregard the prenuptial agreement?

When you divorce, you can apply to the court for them to consider your finances if you cannot agree with your spouse on the terms of the settlement.

The court will first determine if the prenuptial agreement should be binding. If upholding your prenuptial agreement would be unfair due to unforeseen changes in your family life from the time it was entered, then your lawyer can mount a challenge in court regarding the enforceability of the agreement.

If the court is not satisfied that the agreement should be upheld, then it will make the financial orders it deems appropriate considering your family and financial circumstances.

How we can help

If you are contemplating divorce, or simply want to have your prenuptial agreement reviewed, it is best to obtain early legal advice to understand your options.

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

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

• If either you or your former spouse did not make a full and frank disclosure of all assets and liabilities in your names, or that you hold jointly with any other person.

• If the agreement was not in writing and independently witnessed.

For further information, please contact Diana Rose in the family law team on 01604 622101 or email diana.rose@bmtclaw.co.uk.

Image Licenced by Ingram Images

Borneo Martell Turner Coulston have divorce law specialists in both Northampton and Kettering offices.

Dr. Diana Rose Head of Family Law

Chocolate and olive oil mousse

Our recipes come from NN Pulse food writer, Sofia Gallo, an acclaimed local chef, food writer and teacher at Milton Keynes Cookery School. She has recently won the ICG Cooking Competition and was a contestant on BBC’s Masterchef. Follow Sofia: Instagram: @in_cucinacon_sofia FB: incucinaconsofia www.lamiacucina.co.uk METHOD

1. Melt your chocolate either in the microwave, at small intervals, or in a heatproof bowl over simmering water ensuring this doesn’t touch the bowl. Set aside and let cool slightly.

2. In a separate, clean bowl, using an electric mixer set on mediumhigh speed, beat together the egg and salt until foamy, before adding the caster sugar. Beat to a lovely stable and glossy meringue.

3. once the chocolate has cooled, add the egg yolk and olive oil and whisk to combine. Fold the egg white twice and spoon in your chosen glass or ramekin. Place in the fridge and let set for about 4 hours or overnight. To serve:

4. Whip the double cream and icing sugar until soft peaks are formed. Take the mousse 10 minutes before serving out of the fridge, top with the whipped cream and chocolate shavings if using and enjoy immediately.

Foliage for festive times

It’s one of the most appealing of all festive sights; a Christmas wreath hung on a front door, giving cheer to passers by, and welcoming visitors to the home.

Many of us buy wreaths each year, and some of us book onto those ‘learn how to make your own’ sessions, which can be a lovely way to share in the creativity with others – and with a seasonal cup of mulled wine and a cheeky mince pie, it’s a very sociable thing to do.

But really, wreaths aren’t that hard to make from scratch. You just need a nice selection of foliage; long-lasting greenery like eucalyptus, fir, conifer and spruce.

Holly is often used in wreaths, but you don’t need the berries – our feathered friends will use those for nutrition during the cold months, and their need is greater than ours.

If your holly is berry bare, it doesn’t matter.

Don’t be afraid to add other colour too; Fallen oak leaves that have browned look magnificent cutting through the many shades of green for a real contrast.

You might have the necessary foliage in your garden, but if not, forage responsibly.

You can also make your own wreath ring by twisting willow and vines into that necessary circular shape, or purchase a metal one from your local florist – who will also be able to set you up with some garden twine or paddle wire necessary for holding that foliage in place.

The size of your wreath is down to the size of your door, and personal choice, but the art of making it is the same regardless.

Foliage needs to be arranged into small bunches, which you can either tie together with the wire, or fix straight onto the wreath by winding the wire securely around the bottom of each bunch.

Remember the leaves aren’t being watered, hence the need to use evergreens which will serve you for longer, but even so, you’ll need to secure them tightly – they will shrink a little as they dry, and you don’t want a wilting wreath after a week or two!

Take your time as you fix the stems in place, ensuring the space in the centre of your wreath keeps its circular shape, and the foliage and stems completely cover the wreath ring. Placing each bunch over the bottom of the previous bunch will give a continuous aesthetic – and that’s what you need to aim for.

Every wreath has its own charm, so treat it that way – don’t be uniform with the greenery; there are so many textures and colours and it’s lovely to mix them and allow everything to shine.

Foliage looks fabulous on its own, but if you do want to add more colour and texture – and haven’t already used berries – remember that pine cones are wonderfully abundant and look great, too.

Just use any ‘additions’ sparingly to set the wreath off, rather than complicate it.

Happy designing!

Top Tip ...

Lots of people bring flowers into the home at Christmas – orchids and poinsettias are popular choices, but a Christmas cactus can be fabulous too.

Super easy to maintain, the cacti originated in the Brazilian rainforests, and naturally they like humidity – our selection thrive in the kitchen, but they will be just as at home in the bathroom.

These plants work up a thirst, but never allow them to sit in water – stem rot is the enemy.

In fact, you should only water the base of your plant once the soil has dried out.

Ours have withstood some pretty dramatic times and come back brighter – if you treat them well they will reward you with beautiful blooms; the plants can deliver an abundance of flowers.

And they aren’t just for Christmas –they’ll last for decades.

How does your garden grow?

> It is the time to prune gooseberries, and red and white currants, keeping the thick, straight prunings for cuttings.

> Prune greenhouse grapevines to two buds from the main stem or framework.

> Hellebores, a joy in spring, should have any damaged leaves removed.

> Sweet peas, sown earlier, may need their stems pinched out, to make them stocky and branching. Keep them cool and in the light.

> I am checking stakes and ties around the trees that I have planted locally.

> Avian ‘flu is in the news: greenfinches are in decline. Clean bird feeders often and keep bird-bath water clean too.

> Collect holly and berries, conifer stems, ivy and other green shoots for the front door wreath.

> Bring in the Christmas tree as late as you can. I saw 2” off the trunk and then stand the tree in a secure base that holds water. Treat the tree as a cut flower, check the water level daily, and top up as necessary. It reduces needle drop significantly.

> Forced hyacinth bulbs should be brought into the light.

> If you have “Christmas present” house plants, stand them in appropriate light, draught-free places. Enjoy the depths of winter, indoors, with your tree and as many colourful and scented plants as you can!

Pic:PhilScarboro

Happy Christmas to you all!

> 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

Making your own Christmas wreath is a great way to make use of garden greenery

Ralph Westmoreland, Denton & District Gardening Club member

Despite many coats of preservative, the structure of the wooden fence in our front garden rotted, and a recent storm sent it off down the road, thankfully missing the neighbour’s car.

As autumn takes hold, we hear from customers who choose ColourFence because their old fences have blown down or rotted through, causing anxiety about pets escaping or even unwanted intruders. This, paired with the fact that there is no need for ongoing maintenance allows them to break the expensive, monotonous cycle of painting, repairs and replacement. ColourFence is guaranteed not to warp, crack, shrink, rot or peel for 25 years†. Making it one of the world’s best maintenance-free fences. And, unlike other fences, ColourFence can withstand gusts of wind up to 130mph. There’s a choice of colours to harmonise and enhance your garden’s design. You’ll find

prices surprisingly competitive too. Why wait until an urgent replacement is needed? To see the full product range, call us today and find out why it makes sense to choose ColourFence.

It

Astylish insulated roof tiled roof can now replace transparent glass roofs which have been the norm for conservatories for many years.

Multi-award-winning T&K Home Improvements are leading the way in the innovative roof styles which not only look great but will insulate your home and significantly reduce energy costs from older roofs. A change in building regulations has enabled the reliable and trusted brand to launch the new product range – T&K’s Insulate+ Replacement Roof system.

Until recently, a conservatory roof was required to have a minimum 75% transparency. While this ensured the space was flooded with natural light it also meant the conservatory would be far too hot in summer and too cold in winter to use. The new solid roof system being launched is a stylish alternative which are tailor made to fit the existing framework so a conservatory can be transformed with minimal disruption to an all-year-round living space.

Thermally efficient transparent vents can also be added to the new roof to create more light and circulation of air in the summer months

Adrian Timbers, Sales and Marketing Manager, said: “The changes in building regulations are great news for homeowners looking to update their conservatories to use.

“The insulated alternative will transform a conservatory into a contemporary extension which can be used all year round whilst reducing energy costs, carbon emissions and increasing the value of their home. Increased security and noise reduction are also other great benefits from transforming your tired conservatory roof.

‘The insulated alternative will transform a conservatory into a contemporary extension which can be used all year round whilst reducing energy costs’

“It is now possible to have a living space that stays cool in the summer, warm in the winter and, at the same time, make significant reductions in energy bills. The continuing pressure on the price of materials and manufacturing means this a good time to buy rather than delaying the decision and then finding in the coming months that it will cost a lot more to make the changes, and with paying for a new roof monthly it makes it more affordable”

T&K guarantees the work unconditionally for ten years with the fitting undertaken by the family-run company’s team of experienced fitters.

To find out more visit www.tkhi.co.uk or call 0800 622 716

Paired back perfection

Christmas is typically a time of excess, full of extravagance and glitz. Each year, gifts seem to get ever more intricate and expensive, pre-lit trees are produced in a vast array of colours, styles are updated from previous years to suit the prevailing trends. Advances in technology mean new and improved indoor and outdoor lighting options become available, controlled by the touch of a button or the click of an app. With so many opportunities to overspend, it’s not surprising that more than half of the respondents to a Which? questionnaire expressed that they had concerns about this coming Christmas. Indeed, in a recent survey by American Express, 86% of millennials (aged 23 to 38) spent more money on Christmas last year than they planned to. Of those who overspent, about one in five (21%) went over budget by approximately £500 or more.1 And in other research by YouGov, it was discovered that in 2019 (our last ‘normal’ Christmas) the average Brit spent £1,116 across the Christmas period.

Whilst your default might be to leave out some presents for the wider family or limit children to a maximum spend, gifts are not the easiest areas to cut back on as it is in our nature to want treat those we love and give children a Christmas to remember.

A much more manageable and achievable way to limit our spend is to switch to a more sustainable and paired back level of Christmas décor. With a little creativity and a willingness to improvise, homemade, salvaged or foraged decorations can be just as magical as the bought equivalent and are undoubtedly more unique and original.

Seek out inspiration on Pinterest, or watch tutorial videos on YouTube and TikTok. With a little imagination, even the simplest pine cone, jam jar and glitter combination can be used to create a pretty snow globe. Natural materials are ideal for Christmas decorations. Think wood, foliage, glass, metal, card, string, rope, cloth, linen or even home baked goods such as biscuits and cookies.

Driftwood, branches, twigs, pine cones, pallets or crates, combine any of them with some greenery, a candle or some battery fairy lights to give them a seasonal look. Hang bell, Christmas tree or holly shaped biscuits from a multi-stemmed branch or use the metal shape cutters on their own as decorations instead. Twigs can be tied together with twine to create a star shape with glitter added to make it sparkle. Glass bottles look great at any time of the year and work well on their own, but they can look

www.cascayde.com

www.littlelocalbox.co.uk

especially elegant at Christmas when combined in a small display with soft linen, dried whole fruits such as oranges or pomegranates, or with aromatic cloves and cinnamon sticks.

Christmas tree prices are expected to escalate this year with labour, supply and Brexit all having put pressure on availability last year. If you haven’t already purchased an artificial tree, then December 2022 may well be the time for you. If you don’t like the idea of having a fake tree, then why not visit a local garden

Pic: Unsplash

Pic: Unsplash Pic: Unsplash

centre and ask which are the varieties of real tree that you can plant in the garden and re use each year. Another alternative would be to make a homemade tree. Just do an online search for ‘pallet Christmas trees’ if you’re short of inspiration! Other options could involve suspending paper cut Christmas trees or kirigami or origami shapes from coat hangers hung on the back of a door, from a picture hook, on a chimney breast or in a window.

If you live in an urban environment, do not have access to parks or open spaces or lack the time to dedicate to producing hand-made options then try second hand selling sites such as Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Depop, Secondhand and Vinted.

Freecycle, Olio and Gumtree might provide used decorations or crafting materials for free in return for collecting them, alternatively why not offer your Facebook or Instagram friends a swap, your old decorations in return for theirs, as a novel way to gain a new look without having to travel very far.

If you like the idea of hand crafting items or have children that enjoy being creative, save on expensive and typically non-recyclable, shiny wrapping paper by using brown paper to which they could add a stamp, pretty, colourful ribbon, personalised tag or drawing.

When it comes to styling the house, be mindful that less is more. Keep it natural and understated by using as much greenery, glass and wood as possible, then give selected arrangements more prominence by adding a colourful ribbon or metallic bauble. Mirrors reflect light and can be used to give prominence to smaller arrangements. Tall candles can give height to a display and can make excellent alternatives to advent calendars with the use of a fine tipped marker to add the numbers 1-24 from top to bottom.

This Christmas, in the face of the cost of living crisis, high energy bills and uncertainty about the economic climate in 2023, it’s essential that we all remember that having baubles in matching colours, illuminated reindeers in the garden and expensive presents under the tree is unlikely to be what we remember most about Christmas 2022.

Doug Hyde artist profile: Meet the man behind the smile

Since Doug Hyde’s first collection was published in 2003, the smile he introduced us to has become iconic and the popularity of his work has continued to climb.

His characters have a childlike appeal and his style captures a warmth and comfort that draws us into a truly joyful world. While this style has been consistent throughout Doug’s work, every new collection he releases brings something slightly different for us to explore and enjoy.

The Life

Born in Bristol in 1972, Doug Hyde created paintings for family and friends in his spare time before releasing his first collection to the public. Despite his own reservations, in 2005 - just a couple of years after releasing his first collection - Doug was named the UK’s biggestselling artist and described by the BBC as the UK’s most popular living artist.

Doug’s work continues to be inspired by family and friends - he tells how the Masters of Disguise collection was influenced by, “My son’s request for a painting of Spiderman combined with my own love of vintage concepts to take me back to the ‘70s”. And the Rural Retreat collection grew from the new life he and his family created with their move from Bristol to Gloucestershire.

This countryside living has provided Doug and his family with a very different perspective on life, yet his focus on those closest to us means the visions he shares in his works has retained the same warmth and affection we love.

As well as three children, Doug’s family now includes Nancy the Great Dane, a herd of Alpaca, chickens and eight cats. While he explains the expansion of their entourage has been - at times - unexpected, he explains, “The animals are a great way to make the most of your environment as they force you to go outside whatever the weather. Checking up and locking them in last thing at night is a lovely way to finish the day.”

The Work

Having published his first work almost 20 years ago, Doug Hyde says that he still creates art for the same reason he did then, “because it is my passion; because I love it.”

His style is clearly recognisable, with welcoming smiles and open arms conveying a positivity and warmth we’re all drawn to. The combination of bright colours, engaging characters and intimate moments bring to mind illustrations of childhood, which may go some way to explaining the appeal his work has across the generations.

Recognising the confidence and reassurance he has gained from his many collectors, Doug has declared his gratitude to them, saying, “I feel very fortunate that you like and relate to my drawing style, technique, humour and sense of fun – we share a connection and an enjoyment in art and perhaps in life as well.” He does, however, also recognise a need to forget about those who are buying his work when he is creating, ensuring that his pieces are directed by his passion.

The comfort and care resonating through his work are provoked by the positive emotional responses Doug captures. It is no surprise that he has chosen to make use of these instinctive tender responses to support organisations which are important to him. Over the years Doug has used his artwork and creativity in a number of ways to raise money and awareness for charities such as Children in Need, the NSPCC and local organisations Families for Children, St Peter’s Hospice and Look Good, Feel Better.

As his life has changed, Doug tells us that his work also changes and evolves with new ideas constantly flowing. We see that within his collections, with characters in new settingsthese exciting developments encourage us to wonder what will come next!

The Future

Doug Hyde has produced work which comes from the heart and reaches out to those who see it. While the familiarity of his characters and style are reassuring, the new stories and variety in his use of different media (sculpture, print, neon and more), give us new ideas to explore.

Celine Lee Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

Phil’s soundsational year

Emerging from the shadow of Covid in 2022, Sweet But Deadly (SBD)

Promotions honcho Phil Moore decided this year would be his busiest so far. And he smashed it.

“I made a conscious decision to try and put more shows on,” he told Pulse Music, “The demand is there and the acts are there, so there was no excuse. Thankfully, it’s been almost uniformly a success.

“I don’t think a huge amount has changed because of Covid, except perhaps a general tardiness to buy tickets, so you have to hold your nerve a little,” he admits, “By the start of 2022, most people had been vaccinated and the hesitancy had started to fade. Other venues are reporting a lack of sales but it’s not particularly hitting our shows.”

Phil has been bringing bands to the stage in his hometown since 2016, but he had more than a decade of experience under his belt before hitting up the ‘fampton – having promoted on the fast flowing London scene.

This year he has put bands on at The Roadmender, The Picturedrome, The Lab, The Playhouse Theatre, and at a number of bars in the town, but most frequently he booked acts into The Black Prince which is thriving. 2022 highlights? There have been a few...

“I must give a big shout out to The Lovely Eggs and The Bluetones for their brilliant sold-out shows,” Phil said, “And Independent Venue Week back in February was big – with five shows in as many nights. It was a great celebration of what grassroots music venues are all about.”

And who is on the wish list of the future?

“I’d love Temples to come and do a comeback warm-up show before their next album. A secret Babyshambles/ Pete Doherty show maybe? I could go on all day...”

Being a promoter can be tricky – what keeps you in the game?

“I guess you just know you’re a music lifer at a certain point, and you go wherever it takes you,” he reckons, “Personally, I love the energy in a room

of a fantastic band playing their hearts out. There’s a certain romance to it, so perhaps it’s chasing that next hit...”

As the curtain comes down on 2022, it’s good to know that the local scene is thriving too –there has been an explosion in good stuff over the past couple of years, and Phil knows that better than most having booked many of them.

“It’s in rude health,” he agrees, “I thought it was decent before the pandemic, but then a load of bored kids started forming bands and there’s a renewed energy around the place now.

“There’s no doubt that a couple of acts would have been more nationally recognised if Covid hadn’t gotten in the way of their ascent, which is a shame. I won’t single any one act out for stardom,” he says diplomatically, “... there’s such a depth of talent around that any of them could break out in 2023.”

Check in for the latest: sbdpromotions.com

Get your glam rags on!

Sweet are back on the road with their Blitz of Hits road trek and the tour bus stops off at the Roadmender on Friday, December 9. The band, still featuring original guitarist Andy Scott, will be delivering those classics including Love Is Like Oxygen, Ballroom Blitz and Blockbuster

Incredibly, 50 years have passed since they first became chart-busting monsters, and the band has since shifted more than 55 million albums, and had 34 No1 singles. That’s quite the body of work, is that!

Also coming up at the venue this month, Soul II Soul play on Saturday, December 3, Clearwater Creedence Revival will be live on December 5, with support from Joe Martin, and Trevor Nelson returns on December 17 with Soul Nation and Club Classics to get you in a spin.

> Tickets for all shows can be booked by visiting theroadmender.com

Pic: David Jackson

Pic: David Jackson

Phil Moore, driving force behind SBD Promotions

Some more SBD 2022 highlights from the top: The Lovely Eggs, Ben Ottewell and Jah Wobble

Pic: David Jackson

Billy’s new song burst

Last month, Northampton’s Billy Lockett released an emotive new single, Last Thing On Your Mind, much to the delight of his fanbase.

“

Last Thing On Your Mind is about all the relationships that sometimes die for no real reason,” Billy explained, “It’s about feeling like the love is just running out with someone and that you almost wish something dramatic could happen just to give you a better reason for being so sad.”

Billy celebrated the release with a sold-out show at Islington Assembly Hall, and there

are exciting times ahead – starting with the release of his debut album, Abington Grove, which will be with us in February.

This single, and the three previous releases, will all feature on the opus.

We’re not quite there yet, but already 2023 is shaping up to be a great one for our talented singer-songwriter.

We’ll be catching up with Billy in the near future, so stay tuned to Pulse Music for that, and keep up to speed on all things Lockett through FB: @ billylockettmusic

XSLF come to The Lab

Stiff Little Fingers founding member Henry Cluney will play The Lab on December 3 with his band XSLF

The band came together when Henry reconnected with fellow ex-SLF member Jim Reilly the best part of a decade ago, but Jim won’t be in the line-up for the Northampton date – he had to step down from the band for health reasons on the advice of his doctor.

“His health is more important than gigs and we really wish him back to full fitness soon,” Henry said.

In Jim’s absence, the drum stool will be occupied by Glenn Kingsmore, drummer with Belfast noises The Defects.

“Anyone who has seen him play knows what a powerhouse he is,” Henry added, “Come support us through this and see for yourself!”

Support comes from Thee Acid Tongue, Dropping Like Flies and Julie’s Dead Tickets are £10 in advance.

> Get them from wegottickets.com/furiousthirty

Psycho-pop pleasers and maraca-driven rattle n’ roll

Anice local gig for Utopia Development Corporation is incoming – they will be live at The Lab for SBD Promotions on Friday, December 2.

If you fancy a session of post-punk noise head to the Charles Street venue. Doors open at 7.30pm and UDC will be joined in play by Our Condolences, Balter and Tankesque

On Christmas Eve eve The Galileo 7 will rock The Black Prince, again for SBD.

The Kentish four-piece have been music making together for well over a decade, during which time they have dished out several albums and a few singles, all of them psychopop pleasers.

Frontman Allan Crockford has picked up a bass with a roll call of cool – The Prisoners, The James Taylor Quartet, The Prime Movers and The Solarflares among them.

If you pore over the XTC back catalogue, love 60s psych-pop and garage treats, and get excited by current players like Thee Oh Sees and Tame Impala, you’ll want in for this show.

And psychedelic-indie quartet The Marabar Caves have been added to the bill. Originally active from 1982, they reformed in 2018 with bassist Duncan Bisatt taking over from Chris Jess. The rest of the line-up remains unchanged from those early days. Also unchanged is their passion for the sounds –get along early and give your support.

To be fair though, you’ll need to be at The Black Prince long before they take the stage, because Gogo Loco are up first. Anyone fancy a portion of maraca-driven rattle n’ roll? We knew you did.

> Go to skiddle.com for tickets

XSLF play The Lab in December

The Galileo 7 (right) and Utopia Development Corporation (below)

Billy Lockett - a new single released and new album release on the way in February

FILM

Reviews

The Tragedy of Macbeth

OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4/5

Perhaps the real tragedy of this latest filmed version of William Shakespeare’s Scottish play is being stuck on Apple’s own streaming service AppleTV+, amidst its still pretty small range of films (at least compared to Netflix, Amazon, et al) without enjoying a full cinema release. Made by one half of the Coen brothers, the indie directors behind great films like Fargo and No Country for Old Men, Macbeth’s brutal, underhanded quest for power evokes its stage origins while still being spookily atmospheric.

Stars a terrific Denzel Washington as the warrior bewitched by prophecy and trying to reckon with his own desire for power while being manipulated by his wife. Long-time Coen brothers collaborator Frances McDormand electrifies as Lady Macbeth in her chilly, devious belief in the profit of her and her husband’s murders

and deceit which then festers and haunts her. Even the slightest doubt about two Americans playing a very Scottish couple melts away from their very first lines. The film’s shot fully in black and white with huge, sharp shadows in the castle sets that remind a lot of Orson Welles’ own classic 1940s version. Some viewers might prefer the very bloody, gritty, earthly-coloured 2015 version starring Michael Fassbender as Macbeth over this overtly “stage-y”, even “artsy” depiction. Washington’s Macbeth isn’t as raw or openly menacing, and that’s fitting for this more overtly staged version where he delivers Shakespeare’s manifold soliloquies with exquisite emotional complexity. As bright light and dark shadows live side by side in this version, so truth easily succumbs to lies and murder. ✪

Speaking of great acting now showing on Apple TV+, Jennifer Lawrence once again impresses in Causeway, an understated drama that’s a far cry from the blockbusters she used to star in. Playing Lynsey, a military veteran trying to pick up her life back home in New Orleans after a traumatic injury, she’s lost none of her acting prowess. Be warned, this is sombre stuff, and the relationship she strikes with James (Brian Tyree Henry) is hardly the stuff of romance (by design). Still, it’s well paced at just ninety minutes, featuring earned emotional turns that avoid any cheap twists or neat resolutions with intelligent camerawork that complements the sad realities that both characters face, especially Lynsey. ✪

PREY FOR THE DEVIL SWAN SONG BLACK ADAM

Star Rating: 1.5/5

Also streaming on Apple TV+ is Mahershala Ali single-handedly making a very flawed sci-fi drama watchable. In fact, you’ll frankly wish they had just focused on Ali as someone struggling with if and how to tell his wife and son he’s terminally ill, because he’s so charismatic and soulful in those scenes of normal family life. The whole plot of him secretly cloning himself so the clone can pretend to be him is sloppy, like the film’s not prepared to fully interrogate the premise or how the character makes the leap to something this drastic, even in his terrible situation. Again, Ali’s great, including when he plays double in multiple seamless scenes, but this film only needed one of him. ✪

To say Black Adam is one of the better DC Comics adaptations is no great endorse ment, yet even this merely okay film still tops the disastrous attempts to rush a cinematic universe to rival Marvel’s. Black Adam himself, an ancient warrior who might be more “super” than “hero”, has the basis for a compelling main character, even if Dwayne Johnson can’t do much with it besides look vaguely stoic and determined. Naturally, there’s plenty of loud CGI action with costumed heroes and one-liners, though at a completely breathless pace which nearly chokes any resonance this story has because it’s so determined to get to the next scene or the next action beat. At least it’s got Pierce Brosnan, and he gets to play the best-written character! ✪

Content to be completely perfunctory at every turn, Prey for the Devil most inspires fear when it tries writing believable dialogue. A young nun working for a special exorcism society wants to train to exorcise demons herself but first, she’s got her own demons to face. While some horror clichés are hard to avoid, this film fails to embrace the story of an exorcist society taking on the devil and his servants wherever they lurk. As corny as that could be, it’d definitely be more adventurous than another film full of generic scenes of someone being haunted alone before sudden jump “scares” which are fully predictable and frankly just tame. Nor do the characters have the excuse of being demon-possessed; they’re just very thinly written. ✪

#WhatsOnPulse

Comedy Club Christmas Special Thursday, December 1, 8pm

Slim, Sara Barron, David Tsonos and Jay Handley step to the microphone for an evening of funnies at Northampton’s Picturedrome. This bloke came up to me: thepicturedrome.com

Christmas Fair Saturday, December 3 & Sunday, December 4

Purchase unique, handmade gifts from a variety of carefully selected stalls in the surroundings of Delapré Abbey. Please also bring an item of non-perishable food to donate to the Northampton Hope Centre and Food Aid Far Cotton. Hourly timed entry between 10am and 4pm. Book your visit: delapreabbey.org

XSLF

Saturday, December 3

Julie’s Dead present a seasonal Furious Thirty session with original Stiff Little Fingers member Henry Cluney and Dropping Like Flies at The Lab in Northampton.

Tickets: wegottickets.com/furiousthirty

Handmade and Vintage Fair

Saturday, December 3 & Sunday, December 4

Your chance to shop a selection of designer-makers, artists, artisans, antique dealers and small local businesses on the Central Boulevard, Rushden Lakes. Entry, and parking, is free. Original and ace: mkhandmadeandvintage.co.uk

Candelit Tours

Wednesday, December 7 & Thursday, December 8

Experience Delapré Abbey by candlelight on a festive, out-of-hours tour. Learn about the Abbey’s history and its people while exploring its nooks and crannies. Pre-booking essential, and other dates are available. Tours at 5pm, 6pm & 7pm.

Illuminating: delapreabbey.org

Potted Panto

Wednesday, December 7 –Sunday, December 11

Enjoy a madcap ride through the biggest stories and best-loved characters from seven classic pantomimes – delivered in just 70 minutes. It’s what you get when you bring together Cinders, Aladdin and Dick Whittington. Enjoy at The Core in Corby. Fe-fi-fo-fum: thecorecorby.com

Win a family ticket for four people to see Jack and the Beanstalk at Royal & Derngate*

Starring vocal powerhouse and star of The Greatest Showman Keala Settle, Horrible Histories’ Richard David-Caine and Bob Golding. Jack and the Beanstalk will run from Friday 9 December 2022 to Monday 2 January 2023. See our Pantos round-up on page 20 for more details

For more information and to book tickets, go to www.royalandderngate.co.uk or call Box Office on 01604 624811

*The prize is for four tickets to attend the performance on Friday December 16 at 7pm.

Question: Who is playing the part of the Good Fairy in Royal & Derngate’s pantomime? Email your answer to: nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Subject: Jack and the Beanstalk Competition along with your name, address and contact telephone number.

The closing date for entries is: December 9, 2022

Sweet Friday, December 9, 7.30pm

Join the rock and roll institution when the glam titans return with a seasonal slice of hard rock.

They’ll cut loose all of their smash-hit singles, showing off the sounds that have seen the band rolling on for more than half a century!

Blockbuster: theroadmender.com

Towcester Choral Society

Christmas Concert

Saturday, December 10, 7.30pm

Christmas cheer with a ceremony of carols at St Lawrence Church, featuring Lizzie Peacock on harp.

‘Sounds’ like you need a ticket: Call 01908 542815 or email tickets@ towcesterchoralsociety.org.uk

Sunday Roasts

Sunday, December 11, midday-5pm

Options aplenty at The Picturedrome with a platter, roast and yummy dessert. Don’t forget the roasties!: thepicturedrome.com

Santa’s Christmas Rescue!

Monday, December 12Saturday, December 24

Ellie, Izzy and Rudolf must embark on a mission to rescue Santa who is stuck in the snow in this interactive show for ages 6 and under, and their families. Enjoy at the Core in Corby. Icy good fun: thecorecorby.com

Boombastic’s Christmas Silent Disco

Saturday, December 17, 9pm-1am

Silent screaming with the headphone extravaganza as three Dj’s deliver three channels of the greatest songs of all time through your headphones; choose from Christmas Party, Indie/Alternative Anthems or Club Classics. Listen in: thepicturedrome.com

Roy Holding Studio & Gallery

December 2022 Exhibition & Open Studio

17-18th December 2022

Old Towcester Town Hall 10am to 5pm

The Roy Holding Studio and Gallery will be holding their annual Exhibition event in the old Towcester Town Hall on Watling Street Towcester 17-18th December

Available to buy is a wide range of stunning original art in oil, water colour and mixed media including landscapes, seascapes, maritime and boats, Welsh and Scottish Mountains, villages of Tuscany.

In addition to the exhibition weekend the studio is open throughout December so do please come and visit.

Suite 4, The Town Hall, Watling Street, Towcester, NN12 6BS

www.royholdinggallery.com www.paulwhartonartist.com

Trevor Nelson’s Soul Nation

Saturday, December 17, 9pm-1am

If soul and RnB club classics are your bag, you’ll want to be inside the Roadmender for his return visit – if it’s like previous nights in his company, you want to book in advance, too. Soul-ed out: theroadmender.com

The Big Christmas Dog Walk

Sunday, December 18, 10am arrival, 10.30am start

Raising much-needed money for the Animals in Need charity at Bradlaugh Fields in Northampton. Entry is free, and donations will be welcomed. 150 pooches are expected! Yappety-yap: animals-in-need.org

Brackley & District Band

Christmas Concert

Monday, December 19, 7.30pm

Taking place at St Peter’s Church, refreshments will be available and don’t forget to try your luck with the raffle. Retiring collection. Entry is free.

Jazz Colossus –

Big Band Christmas (Evening)

Wednesday, December 21, 8pm

All of your Christmas classics delivered in a big band fashion, featuring a sensational selection of special guest singers backed by a 20-piece collective.

Huge sounds: thepicturedrome.com

Breakfast At The Drome

Saturday, December 31, 9am-midday

Set yourself up the right way with the new breakfast menu at The Picturedrome in Northampton – available to sit-in or takeaway. We’ll have the vegan option, please.

Three winter motoring essentials

ADAM TUDOR-LANE offers up three products to help keep your car windscreen frost-free and charged up this winter.

Around this time of year, I see many ‘Car essentials for winter’ articles. They go to great lengths in advising you to carry a snow shovel, foil blankets, tow ropes, torches, a first aid kit, and while the latter two are definitely handy to have in your car, the majority of us Brits face just two issues come winter.

A frozen windscreen or a dead car.

So here are my three highly advisable winter essentials to make life easier and keep you on the road this winter.

Ice scraper

Put that long-forgotten store card back in your wallet or purse and keep the kettle indoors. Investing in a decent ice scraper is one of those things you always put off. “How much for an ice scraper?! I only use it a few times a year”. Yes, but buy cheap, and you buy twice, or three, or four times. A decent scraper will last a lifetime.

Swedish Ice Scraper – around £14, it’s beautifully designed, strong as anything and made from laser-cut recycled acrylic glass with diamond-polished edges to slice through frost and ice. There’s also a wiper blade cleaning slot; how’s that for fancy?

Get one. You won’t regret it.

Windscreen cover

If you don’t fancy being up an hour early to squeeze in those extra ten minutes needed to clear the windscreen of frost (where does that time go?!), just get a cover.

Then all you have to do is check the weather that night, see if it’s going to be a minus number, go outside, put the windscreen cover on and look smug as you remove it the next morning and be on your way.

I’ve personally used a Maypole windscreen cover for years. It comes in a handy little pouch and folds up incredibly small. What makes it stand out from others though are the small winglets that have a piece of rigid plastic in each side. You open your car door, close these in, and it stays in place with no problem.

Price - £7.95. And I must have had mine a good 10 years. Worthy investment – but still get an ice scraper for those nights you forget to check or need to clear the side and back windows.

Trickle charger

Batteries don’t like the cold. EV drivers will know this with great pain.

As the temperature drops, the chemical process inside car batteries slows down. This reduces its ability to hold charge resulting in less power to turn the starter motor and fire your car into life. If your battery is less than three years old, you’re likely fine, but winter can become a challenge for anything around the five-year-plus mark.

A trickle charger is the best way to look after your battery and prevent this. Plug it into the mains, and it will slowly and safely charge your battery. This will keep it in good health over the chilly months. Now you don’t have to keep it connected all the time. One day a week should be enough to keep you topped up.

You can, of course, replace your battery, but at £22 for a trickle charger like the Ring Automotive RSC804, that’s probably around 1/3rd of the cost, and it will help stretch your battery’s life.

Find it on Amazon by scanning the QR code

I’ve used all these products myself, so I can vouch for them, and I believe they’re all the average motorist needs to see them through winter. All for less than £45.

Find it on Amazon by scanning the QR code For more car news, reviews and motorsport action visit carwitter.com or follow us @car_witter

Find it on Amazon by scanning the QR code

Prices are correct at the time of printing – it’s not my fault if they go up!

View from the Far Kerb

Choinka

Many years ago, I lived in Poland when men were men, arguments were mathematical expressions, and social media was a vinyl record liked by multiple people.

At the time it was merely a strange country, once part of the Communist Eastern Bloc, which then bordered the area now known as the EU.

The country had been economically hamstrung after being forced to be part of an economic and political zone that didn’t come out of the Cold War too well. It was otherwise a country of riches, in terms of the people and its welcoming nature towards visitors. Worn-out shop door handles that rattled, and buildings with render flaking off, were common because no one had the money or means to make good whatever had become rundown.

I had been living and working in Germany, grape-picking, and when I left the Weingut one dark morning I turned left instead of right and my original onward destination of Turkey became Poland.

Once I had realised a wrong turning had been taken, I decided to embrace the error and obtain an entry visa. That meant stopping off at the Polish Botschaft (embassy) to complete an application form. It was written in two languages: German and Polish; no English. I used my poor German to wade through the form and hoped to manage well enough to be rewarded with the required visa to insert into my passport.

The hour I spent trying to negotiate it was enough to obtain the important and necessary slip of paper. My trip towards my new objective was not going to result in being turned away at the German/ Polish border.

Once there it seemed wise to learn at least a little Polish as I was discovering that speaking German wasn’t helping me to make friends.

My choices had been: Polish, Russian, German, or pantomime. The first would have been ideal, the second meant instant and severe dislike while the third engendered distrust. However, the last option generally produced smiles and sympathy, but the amount of energy I had to use to get a message across was far more than I could spare over a period of time.

Naturally, I did what any decent foreigner would do and I learnt how to say please and thank you, along with a few swear words. My favourite cuss became choinka (pronounced: hoy-inka). It didn’t appear to be strong and I thought it might help me fit in a little better. Whenever I said it, Poles tended to smile and I figured it was probably to do with the way I pronounced it. I’m sure every native-speaker of English will have grinned when they have heard a foreigner swearing in English. Sometimes it is funny or at the very least, incongruous.

It was a good few years after my return to Blighty before my discovery that I had merely been saying Christmas tree, in place of the true naughty word – just like saying sugar instead of something else after stubbing a toe.

O’HARA

PHIL

Your stars

Flavour of the Times - The new moon that occurs in Sagittarius releases some of the tension that was so difficult for most of us last month. There is a welcome sense of rediscovering the vision that seemed to have gone missing for a while. The accent is more on expansion and renewed sense of purpose – it’s altogether much more optimistic but the link with Jupiter may mean that good ideas get very over-blown, and people may get carried away with completely unrealistic hopes and dreams that are nothing to do with reality. Travel aims may not match up to their billing. The winter is for hunkering down!

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22 You might well start the month with exuberant optimism but coming unstuck – probably at the full moon on 7th - is a real possibility here, so keep it real. You might feel desperate to get away somewhere where you can leave the troubles of the world behind but sadly, we always take ourselves with us and your energies may fragment and fall apart if you are not careful.

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

A bid for freedom has always been followed by the consequences. You know this very well so you may feel, justifiably, reluctant to go along with some of the more outlandish ideas that come at you this month. It is, after all, the winter and the energy is low everywhere in nature, and humans are no different. File under ‘ideas for the future’.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

Feeling a bit detached and philosophical about how things are going is probably a sensible strategy this month. You have perhaps been trying to keep your head above the conflict for a while now so it’s best to attend to your own needs before reaching out to humanity. Mind you, the local foodbank may need your help and enthusiasm as the winter worsens.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

Jupiter and Neptune are about to leave Pisces this month so any creative and imaginative plans that you may have conjured up might not endure. I doubt you will have the energy to ‘go for it’ now even if you could, so maybe finding peace and harmony with those around you will turn out to be a better bet this month. Bring a little light and warmth to the creeping darkness.

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

You should feel a real lift as you get towards the end of this month. The new moon in Sagittarius is a boost of optimism but as Jupiter moves into your sign at the solstice on the 21st, there will be some sort of shift forward. Jupiter will charge quite fast through Aries this winter, so be aware of any belligerence and aggression either coming your way or, indeed, from you.

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

You may distrust change in many ways but the position of Uranus in your chart has been challenging your ideas of how you would like things to be for a good while. The intensity of last month may be fading now but it is important to learn the lessons it has taught you. Any lazy thinking or complacency should be strongly resisted now.

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

The pre-Christmas party season will boost your spirits after last month’s intensity, but as the winter approaches you may not have quite the stamina for it all that you hoped for. You will like the optimism that comes with Sagittarius but keep an eye on burn out and feeling frazzled by the stresses of the year you have had. It’s a time to look after yourself.

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

You may feel sensitive and even a little melancholic at this time of year. You will want to be with your family but you are also well aware of the difficulties everyone has been facing. Life has been tough but your nurturing instincts will be appreciated so long as you don’t come across as being too smothering. It’s important to let people be themselves and find their own answers.

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

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

LEO

July 24 – August 23

Sagittarius might not let you sleep too well this month as your mind is teeming with new ideas. You enjoy the optimism the sign brings but December is also the lowest point of the year at the winter solstice, so resist the temptation to try to do much more than just simply enjoy the Christmas season. Gratitude is worth cultivating, particularly at this time of year.

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

So here we go, getting organised for Christmas. As usual, you take a big sigh as you realise that nobody else is as good as you are at all this but try to also take a moment, let go of all the lists of presents etc. to consider how you might let yourself relax a little and try to enjoy the season for yourself. Find some tranquility to rest yourself.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

Your natural sense of harmony will be a great asset through the Christmas period as you bring a bit of calm to potentially fractious relationships and are able to genuinely enjoy being with family and friends. Don’t dwell too much on what you haven’t managed to achieve this year. The year begins anew just as soon as the winter solstice has passed.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

Venus is accompanying the new moon in your sign this month. This could be about money, values or love and sex. Either way, it’s not at all trivial but of course that’s why you might even relish delving into it all. Alternatively, you might fear to tread in those footprints because you know that some deep emotions are being stirred. Perhaps now is the time to own up to what you feel deep down?

Chart readings with me start at £67 and last for an hour on Zoom or Skype. Please go to www.astroguidance.co.uk for more details and to book a session. You can also text or WhatsApp me on 07866 727743 or email me at howpark@aol.com for more information.

If you are interested in discussing and learning more about astrology, why not pop into my Facebook group The Astrocafe | Facebook.

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HOWARD PARKER