NN Pulse magazine February 23

e’re starting the month with Independent Venue Week (IVW). It’s a celebration of independent music and arts venues and the people who run and work in them. We can look forward to some very special events at the Black Prince over five nights starting with Overpass, Tom A Smith and Clearcut. Local band Sarpa Salpa will also be visiting their favourite regional venues with Low Girl. There’s plenty more live music this month and lots of on-stage action at the Royal & Derngate and the Old Savoy too.

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You can start planning how to help a local good cause this month too. Gosset ward at Northampton General Hospital allows parents to stay near their poorly babies. Northamptonshire Health Charity is fundraising to help more families in such difficult times. How about a fundraising abseil down the Northampton Lift Tower in June? If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground you can make a donation to this very worthwhile cause instead.

Kerry NN Pulse is distributed door to door to 22,000 homes and businesses in: Ashton,

Editor Read previous editions online: www.pulsemagazine.co.uk 01604 935300 nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk 17 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks MK46 5EA Connect with us on socials: /pulsemagazines @pulsemagazines nnpulsemagazine FINISHED READING? PASS PULSE MAGAZINE TO A FRIEND OR PLACE IT IN THE RECYCLING.

Little Brington, Little

Houghton,

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!

Award-winning bathroom showroom opens in Towcester

Rripples features a vast array of quality products from some of the top luxury bathroom brands in Europe. From hand-painted boat baths and stylish concrete basins to brushed gold brassware and marble tiles, the showroom features products and design solutions to surprise and delight. Once customers have browsed the product selection, an in-house designer will be on hand to expertly guide them through their bathroom project, creating a unique design specifically tailored to their needs.

Ripples works with renowned bathroom suppliers across Europe to offer clients a collection which is vast and of exceptional quality. Its product range includes baths, showers and enclosures, WCs, basins and brassware in almost every style, colour and design imaginable. It also offers unique collections and materials that provide something a little bit different including copper baths, special finish brassware and bespoke solid wood furniture. With styles to suit all tastes, Ripples showrooms act as the perfect showcase to spark the imaginations of clients before the design team get to work creating bespoke bathroom solutions for them.

Owner and Director of Ripples Towcester, Dane Chapman, said: “My business partner Scott and I are delighted to open a Ripples showroom in the heart of Towcester. Having previously worked together in the bathroom installation business, we understand the importance of every part of the process; from sourcing quality products and creating inspiring designs, right the way through to the final installation. We’re looking forward to bringing our knowledge and passion for bathrooms to Towcester and to be doing so with the support of the wider Ripples family.”

Founded in 1988 by Roger and Sandra Kyme, Ripples has 35 years experience in designing bespoke bathrooms for customers up and down the country. With an impressive collection of 16 showrooms nationwide, Ripples has built a reputation for creating innovatively designed and beautifully finished bathrooms, earning over 60 coveted industry awards across the group.

Ripples Towcester is open now at 2 Roman Corner, Northampton Rd, Towcester NN12 6LD. For more information, visit ripplesbathrooms. com or call 01327 368233.

With styles to suit all tastes, Ripples showrooms act as the perfect showcase to spark the imaginations of clients

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

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

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the

unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community 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”.

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

New Year holiday bookings are go!

Many parents are looking to book family holidays early this year for that much needed break this summer. However, if you are a separated parent hoping to take your children abroad, there are additional factors you will need to consider before boarding that plane to prevent any unforeseen issues arising.

First and foremost, you must get permission from everyone with parental responsibility for a child before taking them abroad. Failure to do so risks committing the offence of ‘child abduction’.

You automatically have parental responsibility if you are the child’s mother, however, you will still need the permission of anyone else with parental responsibility before taking the child abroad.

A letter from the person with parental responsibility for the child is usually sufficient. We would also recommend that they provide their contact details in the letter and details about the trip, just in case there are any questions raised at Passport Control.

It may also be advisable to have evidence of your relationship with the child (for example, a

birth or adoption certificate) and a divorce or marriage certificate if you are a single parent, but your family name is different from the child’s.

If you have a Child Arrangements Order in place, and that Order provides that the child is to live with you, then you are permitted to take that child out of the country for up to 28 days without permission from another party. However, if you intend to travel abroad with your child for longer than 28 days, the remainder of the advice in this article applies.

Unfortunately, some people find themselves in a situation where they want to take their children on holiday, but consent from the other parent is not forthcoming. If that is the case, you may need to make an application to the Court for a Specific Issue Order.

In considering the application, the Court will take into account the welfare of the child and the destination. While such an application can be made on an urgent basis, you should act promptly, particularly due to delays in the Court system, as the Court will need to list the matter for a hearing prior to the proposed departure date.

To ensure that you will not have any problems, there are three main things we recommend:

1. Firstly start discussing your arrangements early. This will give you plenty of opportunity to resolve any concerns the other party may have.

2. Always check the entry requirements of the destination you will be travelling to. Details of the relevant embassy should be easily available online.

3. Try to be transparent about arrangements for the holidays with the other parent, for example providing information as to hotels, travel times, and emergency contact numbers to reduce the possibility of concern.

If you encounter or anticipate any problems when looking to travel abroad, seek legal assistance. The family team here at Wilson Browne Solicitors can help and offer a free consultation on 0800 088 6004

MOMENTS THAT

Sally Robinson, Partner, Family Law E: sarobinson@hcrlaw.com | M: 07967 763 604

Kia wins big at DrivingElectric Awards

Kia has once again found success, with four models being declared class winners at the fifth annual DrivingElectric Awards.

The Driving Electric Awards celebrate the most efficient cars money can buy. Each category winner is decided by the publication’s judging panel, considering factors such as overall value for money, performance, and practicality.

The EV6 GT continues to further the brand’s reputation as a leader in electrification, being named ‘Best Electric Performance Car’. The all-new Sportage PHEV and Niro, both launched earlier this year, were awarded ‘Best Plug-in Hybrid Family Car’ and ‘Best Hybrid Family Car’, respectively.

Richard Ingram, Editor of Driving Electric commented on the EV6 GT’s award win: “In a category previously dominated by supercar-slaying German brands,

the Kia EV6 GT challenges the status quo and shows its rivals a clean set of heels. The scintillating straight-line performance is only part of the package; the GT is an incredibly capable all-rounder.”

The 577 bhp Kia delivers power and acceleration never before seen from the Korean brand, and further emphasises Kia’s commitment to fully electric

mobility. The combination of eyecatching design and jaw-dropping performance stunned visitors to the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where the EV6 GT burst onto the scene and made its debut up the famous hill climb. However, it’s not just the EV6 GT which impressed judges at the 2023 Driving Electric Awards, with the all-new Sportage PHEV and all-new Niro both adding

to their resumé of prestigious awards.

“DrivingElectric sister site Carbuyer.co.uk voted the all-new Kia Niro as its overall Car of the Year only a few months ago, and it goes on to triumph here as well. Spacious, super-efficient and good to drive, there’s no finer hybrid family car currently on sale.”

It isn’t just Kia’s latest models that have won accolades. The previous-generation Niro was named ‘Best Used Hybrid Car’. Having launched both the all-new Sportage and all-new Niro earlier in 2022, 2023 is shaping up to be an equally big year for Kia. Next year, the brand will launch the fully-electric EV9, as Kia moves towards its goal of launching 14 EVs globally by 2027.

>> For further information, speak to a member of our team today. Bells Kia Northampton 01604 621363 or Bells Kia Bedford 01234 360666 or visit www.bellskia.co.uk

The Driving Electric Awards celebrate the most efficient cars money can buy. Each category winner is decided by considering factors such as overall value for money, performance, and practicality.

Getting organised for your perfect day

Going down on one knee and popping the question is the easy bit.

If you have been given the right answer and they have said ‘I do’, you and your best friend are now agreeing to take your commitment to the next level.

But first, you’ll take on the all-consuming role of wedding planner with your partner (unless you decide to invite someone into your bubble to take care of that stuff for you).

Most of us choose to take on the burden (it might feel like that on occasion!) ourselves, and while thoughts of perfect wedding days are romantic, the best way to achieve all that you want is to be organised with a capital O!

Spreadsheets might not be all about hearts and flowers, but they will enable smooth planning, prevent brain fog and keep your blood pressure in the correct range – so reach for the laptop.

First things first, and you need to name the day so that you have something to work towards.

What time of the year? How far into the future will it be? Do you dream of a sundrenched day surrounded by family and friends, or would you rather take advantage of the colder months of the year, which offer their own appeal – think of frosty mornings and winter wonderland-themed receptions.

They can be every bit as magical, and offpeak weddings are naturally kinder on the bank balance, too.

Perhaps you already have your dream venue in mind. But if you’ve no idea, it’s time to google, and ask for recommendations. We’ve given you a few beautiful opportunities to investigate in the area, too – turn the page for those.

How does your day look? Perhaps you will want to keep things small and intimate for the ceremony and meal, followed by a significant evening celebration, or maybe you want everyone there to share every moment with you.

It’s time to get the guest list into some form – and don’t worry when it changes. It probably will, frequently!

Where is the evening venue? What about hotel stays for guests travelling a distance? Many hotels will offer deals and bulk bookings, so think ahead to prevent issues down the line.

Speaking of the floral side, petal power rules and a florist will need to be in place in good time, although you don’t need to discuss the specifics at such an early stage.

Whatever your choices, you will want a record of your special day, so employing the correct photographer and videographer is important. After all, there are no second chances to get it right. Letting Uncle Jimmy sway around with his mobile phone ‘capturing’ the action won’t suffice, and you know so.

‘Save the date’ cards need to be sent out with lots of warning. You can purchase them, but with a little effort, you can produce something pretty and unique to you.

It’s worth bearing in mind that peak wedding season is usually between May and October.

Set a budget that works for you, no matter how much or how little, but stick to it.

Occasional wriggle room is ok, but fight the urge to act on impulse – sleep on any decisions which aren’t part of the plan but will leave the bank balance looking poorly!

In 2022, the cost of the average UK wedding came in at a little over £20,000 pounds. You want to enjoy the day with your new partner, and your friends and family. But do you really want to be starting married life with a wealth of debt?

We’re trying to be a little voice of reason here!

When you’ve confirmed your spend, or perhaps simultaneously, you can begin the search for the perfect wedding location and reception spaces, which may be one and the same, if you choose not to opt for a church wedding.

Everyone wants the perfect day, but what that means to every bride and groom will vary tremendously, and there are actually very few things that every wedding dictates as essentials.

Be prepared to get busy with the pen, because though you might not think so, weddings do come with rather a lot of paperwork. And don’t forget the all important Notice of Marriage or Notice of Civil Partnership, the fee is negligible, but nothing is more important.

Organising a wedding is huge fun too, and a chance to explore your creativity; what theme will the day take? Will it be demure and traditional? Colourful and creative? Or something off-the-wall bonkers and unique? This is your show, so be as bold as you feel comfortable with.

What colours do you have in mind? They might feed into everything from bridesmaid dresses to table settings and floral arrangements, so don’t pick in haste!

The same goes for the wedding invitations – keep them simple, cute, or elegant. It’s all down to individual taste.

Of course your prime interest is for your nearest and dearest to be a part of your special day, but it’s also wise to think about your gift list.

If people are keen to give you a gift, would money towards your dream honeymoon be the perfect suggestion?

How will you travel to the ceremony?

From elegant motors to the clippety-clop of hooves, these things have to be thought out and enquiries made in good time to avoid disappointment.

There is so much to be organised but if you keep your cool, and get the big things taken care of, the little things will be a whole lot easier to work through.

And if you need help, reach out - you’ll have a network of friends and family keen to support you.

Your wedding day deserves to be every bit as special and unique as you are. Love every moment.

Set a budget that works for you, no matter how much or how little, but stick to it.

Say “I do” with Beaverbrooks

Budget

Sit down and decide together what you’d like to spend. You’ll be wearing your wedding rings every day for the rest of your life, so it’s worth investing in your forever pieces, so you really will cherish them for a lifetime.

At Beaverbrooks

Milton Keynes we love being a part of our customers most special celebrations and we know that finding your perfect wedding ring is really important on the journey to your special day.

With over 100 years of expertise, let us help you find the perfect wedding rings for you and your loved one, that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Start your search early

It’s a good idea to set some time aside to shop for your wedding rings, as some rings can take several weeks to be ordered and we want you to have plenty of time to make sure they really are perfect. It’s also important to get your ring size right first time, to avoid any delays.

Choose a style you’ll love forever

Wedding rings come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. For the groom, different metals and styles may be a factor, and for the bride, you may need to plan your wedding ring around your engagement ring so they sit together perfectly. Our fully trained experts will be able to help you find your ‘perfect match.’

Consider your lifestyle and type of work when choosing your wedding rings, as you may need to choose a metal such as platinum, as this will really stand the test of time.

We have wedding rings to suit every budget at Beaverbrooks, and we offer Interest Free Credit which gives you the option of spreading the cost of your purchase over a period that suits you.

Always remember aftercare

At Beaverbrooks, we offer a lifetime of cleaning and inspection with each wedding ring to help you make sure your ring looks as beautiful as it did the day you bought it.

Book a personal appointment: Online: Beaverbrooks.co.uk/appointments

Email: miltonkeynes.branch@beaverbrooks.co.uk Call: 01908 691998

Visit us: 27/29, Crown Walk, The Centre:MK, Milton Keynes, MK9 3AH

Family Jewellers Since 1 9 1 9

Visit us at 27/29, Crown Walk, The Centre:MK, Milton Keynes, MK9 3AH Speak to a consultant on 01908 691998 or Email miltonkeynes.branch@beaverbrooks.co.uk Book an appointment at Beaverbrooks.co.uk/appointments

Erica Young, store manager at Beaverbrooks Milton Keynes, offers her top tips to help you find the perfect wedding rings

Erica Young (inset) store manager at Beaverbrooks Milton Keynes

The right time, the right place

Finding the perfect backdrop for your wedding sets the mood for all that follows, and we are lucky to have some truly spectacular settings within easy reach. When it comes to the wow factor, these are among the very best.

‘Imagine a beautiful collection of historic and contemporary barns nestled within a gorgeous country estate, amidst miles of rolling countryside,’ and then imagine no more –because Dodford Manor delivers just that. Your wedding day is unlike any other, so you’ll want the perfect setting, and Dodford delivers, with a 1680’s threshing barn, 1790s Dairy Barn and contemporary glass walled Oak Barn, all set within a stunning country estate. Dodford Manor is perfect, with miles of rolling countryside. Awards? They have more than a few, including the 2018 win, Best UK Country Venue!

A fabulous venue which works just as well for intimate gatherings as it does for large parties.

Discover more:

W: dodfordmanor-venue.co.uk

T: 01327 349761

E: enquiries@dodfordmanor-venue.co.uk

Who doesn’t want to make a splash on their wedding day? Hellidon Lakes is a picture-perfect location in the Northamptonshire countryside, which boasts a magical waterfall and eight lakes spaced amongst the 220 acres of green and pleasant land.

Wedding parties of all sizes have a choice of stunning spaces for champagne receptions, outdoor weddings, ceremonies, dining and dancing at the Daventry location.

For a ‘waterfall’ wedding, visit W: hellidonlakeshotel.co.uk

T: 01327 2625550

E: events@hellidonlakeshotel.co.uk

Positioned just 11 miles from the new city of Milton Keynes in the rural tranquility of the Buckinghamshire countryside, Horwood House has more than a century of charm and period character to backdrop your event, including a grand staircase, spectacular chandeliers, leadlight windows and intricate stonework.

Outside is just as spectacular, with manicured lawns and a tranquil lily pond, which is perhaps not so surprising, given that legendary gardener Percy Thrower was born at Horwood House – his horticultural influence is everywhere.

The hotel has recently undergone a top-to-toe refurbishment too, and oozes country chic.

If you are interested in saying ‘I do’ in this stunning setting, click to W: horwoodhouse.co.uk

E: weddings@horwoodhouse.co.uk

T: 01296 722100

Your wedding day will be historic, so find a setting to match; Rushton Hall definitely ticks the box!

The magnificent Grade I Listed Country House hotel in Kettering is nestled in 25 acres of gorgeous grounds, and original features from its build in the 15th century includes stunning architecture, grand wooden floors and roaring log fires. The Orangery overlooks stunning gardening and provides a beautiful backdrop for images you will cherish forever.

‘...celebrate in one of the grandest wedding venues where traditional elegance meets modern indulgence in the best possible way,’ is the invitation.

For a decadent experience unlike any other, visit W: rushtonhall.com

T: 01536 713001

E: weddings@rushtonhall.com

Located on the edge of Kettering with easy access to the wider Northamptonshire countryside, Kettering Park Hotel & Spa is a beautiful venue for your wedding day. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave as a newly married couple, the events team and staff are devoted to making your special day everything you could want it to be.

Find out more: W: ketteringparkhotel.co.uk

T: 01536 416666

E: events@ketteringparkhotel.co.uk

You could choose to turn the beautiful Grade II listed Delapré Abbey into yours for the day. Whether you’re planning an elaborate celebration or something intimate, Delapré Abbey can provide a bespoke service from ceremony, breakfast, through to evening reception. Catering for all sorts of special events including weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, hen and stag parties, and more.

The Abbey has a range of stunning photographic opportunities available – the walled garden, the parkland, the grand staircase, Victorian tiled hallway and for group shots our courtyard is sure to be a favourite.

Delapré Abbey will also be offering rooms for the bridal party to get ready in, to be pampered with a glass of bubbly whilst putting those final touches to hair and make-up

For a wedding with a difference, visit W: delapreabbey.org/weddings

T: 01604 974421

E: events@delapreabbey.org

Horwood House

Dodford Manor

Rushton Hall

Pic: whitestagweddings.com

Petal power

There is an enormous checklist of things to sort to ensure that your special day is bloomin’ marvellous – but choosing the right flowers is surely one of the most satisfying parts.

Georgianna Gillings runs Milton Keynes-based Jade Flower Boutique and has been in business since 2008. She was bitten by the flower bug (not in the literal sense!) from the get-go years earlier: “On my first day on the job I worked on a wedding, helping out and learning as I went along, and I’ve loved it ever since.”

The perfect floral scheme is as important as the right dress or suit, or cake; these elements all lock together to deliver the day you want and deserve.

Georgianna’s advice is to find a florist that you like and get them signed up as soon as you’re able.

“It’s ideal to try and book them as soon as you find one that you feel understands your ideas and vision for the wedding,” she told Pulse, “I have couples booking as early as two years in advance, but I can work with much shorter time

frames, so long as the date is available in my diary.

“It’s great if people have a rough idea of what they need; bridal bouquet, how many bridesmaid bouquets, buttonholes, and any decoration and table arrangements, which will help me to guide on schemes and give ideas.

“Very natural styles with lots of foliage and neutral colours for the flowers,” are the preferred choices for couples tying the knot in 2023, says Georgianna, “Pale blues, pinks and greens are still very popular, as they were last year.

“Flowers bring the room alive, bring the outdoors in and fill the space with the most beautiful of scents. They can completely change a dark room with bold vibrant blooms, or create a subtle romantic look with pale tones.”

> For more information on your flower journey visit jadeflowerboutique.co.uk or visit FB: jadeflowerboutique

Confetti

The origins of confetti can be traced back to pagan times, but although the exact materials thrown have changed the tradition still stands.

Showering the newlyweds in confetti when they leave their ceremony has long been a thing, and the first paper confetti originated in Italy in 1875. Two decades later and the UK had adopted the tradition.

Seeing the multi-coloured paper pieces blowing around a church frontage would give away that nuptials had recently been held there. But though it may be pretty, it is still litter, and when eaten by our wildlife, can prove nasty. And plastic confetti doesn’t break down, but adds to pollution. Things are changing and in recent years many venues will welcome you to say ‘I do’, but themselves say, ‘We don’t’ when it comes to allowing confetti on their land.

But you can still have your confetti – simply consider using biodegradable products.

Nature’s natural colours are the prettiest, they

won’t leave a mess and will decompose naturally.

Leaves are perfect, and can be holepunched to create wonderful patterns.

Of course florals are fantastic, and The Real Flower Petal Confetti Company has been ‘handpicking the best petals since 1997,’ and their easy to navigate website is the answer to every question you’ll ever think of. Pretty and perfect.

> Visit confettidirect.co.uk

Going to the chapel and we're... going to say what?

Wedding vows and the exchange of rings might be a small part of the wedding day, but they are the most important bit, so they need to be right for you both.

Your first vow should be one to yourself that won't be read out on the day – you should vow to get everything just right!

Will you opt for the traditional vows or will you choose your own? And if you do opt for something bespoke, modern and unique, please make sure that you put down on paper what you want to say long before you are on the way to the service!

You don't need to be a great wordsmith, but if you are struggling, speak to a professional, or ask a friend to help. As long as the sentiment is yours, a little help is ok.

Whether traditional, modern, civil ceremony or non-denominational a few things apply for all; the words are about you and your partner promising to be there for each other, and declaring your love for each other in front of those who mean the most to you.

Wedding inspiration at the Bridal Boutique

Celebrate the season of love with mystery discounts and a glass of bubbly, when you arrive for your appointment from 14th – 28th February 2023

Brand new wedding dresses Pre-loved gowns Mother-of-the-bride Bridesmaid and party dresses

Be inspired for your big day, no matter where you are in the planning process!

The Bridal Boutique is owned and run by Willen Hospice, and you’ll find it upstairs in the Leighton Buzzard shop.

Helen or Sally will be on hand to welcome you when you come in for your one-to-one ‘trying on’ appointment.

They said: “We want you to feel unique and exquisite on your wedding day. We will do all we can to suggest a range of dresses to try,

PLANNING A WEDDING?

and help you find something amazing that flatters and completes your look. You’ll have the whole space to yourself so you can feel relaxed and have fun choosing your dress.

“We’ve been privileged to be able to buy up ranges of brand new, unworn dresses to offer you. Or take a look at the beautiful, preloved gowns that are donated to us when someone passes on their treasured outfit for another bride to enjoy. And with the cost of our dresses ranging between £150 and £500, there is something perfect for every bride’s budget.”

While you’re there, look for bridesmaid or mother-of the bride outfits that will make others in your wedding party feel fantastic as they share your big day. We can also put you in touch with someone who does alterations at a reasonable price.

Viewing is by appointment only. To arrange a time, please call us on 01525 854420, email to: LeightonBuzzardShop@willen-hospice.org.uk or visit our Willen Hospice shop.

Willen Hospice Shop, 7 High Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1DN

Plan your wedding table!

Thinking of having wedding favours on your tables? Ask about our Willen Hospice Lottery tickets or Scratchcards, and give someone a chance to win prizes of up to £1,000 as they celebrate your wedding day*. (Over 18s only) We also have children’s favours to keep little hands busy as you enjoy your celebration.

*Full terms and conditions at willen-hospice.org.uk/lottery

Find the perfect dress for your big day

14th – 28th February - Bridal Boutique, Leighton Buzzard

Celebrate the season of love with mystery discounts and a glass of bubbly, when you arrive for your appointment.

• Wedding gowns £150 - £500 • bridesmaids dresses • mother-of-the-bride outfits To book, please call us on 01525 854420

Shopping with us helps provide compassionate end of life care

Because it’s His Day too!

Grooms: we have everything you need to be completely involved in the planning of your wedding. Brides: Let him know we’ve got his back.

His Day is on a mission to make sure the groom(s) have the wedding resources they need, readily available so that they can have as much involvement in the process as they would like.

We are a future Husband and Wife team, David and Anna. We got engaged in 2022 and are planning our 2023 wedding. After attending a few wedding fairs, it became very clear that there was very little to nothing for the groom to see or do at these events.

That’s why we created our own groom community, aimed towards the groom, giving them the resources and ideas they need to get involved with the planning of their special day, because after all, it’s His Day too.

Much more than wedding fairs, His Day will give the groom somewhere to go for ideas, insights, and know-how on what to do in the

build up to their wedding, and how to make their special day as perfect as possible.

We are bringing you wedding fairs with an emphasis on men, an online community of like minded grooms, and a catalogue of resources to help with the whole process.

> Where to find us?

Website: www.hisday.co.uk

Instagram: Hisdayweddingfairs

A slice of perfection

Euthymia Cakes owner Eva Cockrell has been whipping up wonderful wedding treats for clients for more than a decade.

A pastry chef and dietician with a fine eye for detail, she uses high-quality ingredients to deliver breathtaking wedding cakes, cake pops, pastries and cupcakes for those special occasions. Prefer vegan? Eva can sort that for you, too.

Euthymia Cakes is based in Milton Keynes, but covers Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire.

She walked us through the steps to wedding cake success.

“Although it might seem like a long time in advance, I would recommend allowing at least six to 18 months to start planning and contacting any suppliers that have caught your attention,” Eva advises, “Especially if your chosen date is one of the popular ones, and there are a few!”

Having a chat with your chosen cake creator nice and early will allow them to get a feel for your wedding, understand your theme and your wishes, and work towards what you want – and if you don’t know what that is, they can help with that too.

You don’t want an average cake for your big day, so there won’t be an average price either.

“There are so many factors that influence the price of the cake,” Eva said, “The size, shape, amount of tiers, quality of ingredients, custom colours, decoration, level of skill of the cake decorator, and then of course there is the amount of labour that each single part will take.”

Wedding dress fashions aren’t the only thing that change - cakes do too.

“Just like dress fashion, cake fashion follows very closely,” she agrees, “The pantone for 2023 is magenta and I can already see lots more orders for pink wedding cakes.

“Semi-naked wedding cakes are still popping up on social media, but there has been a decline in recent years due to the hot weather,” Eva revealed, “Cakes covered with sugar paste/fondant are easier to travel over long distances, because they usually have a sturdy chocolate ganache underneath the sugar paste.

“Classic florals, edible flowers and textures are very much on trend. Wedding cakes are now also more personal than ever, reflecting the couple themselves with colours and textures used for the wedding day.”

And never let anyone tell you otherwise – cake is important!

“Cake is more than a tradition, it is the focal point of the room, and unique edible art,” Eva added.

> Let Eva create sweet magic for your special day. Visit euthymia.co.uk or find her on FB and Instagram at EuthymiaCakes

(Everyone’s crazy ‘bout) a sharp dressed man

Let’s be honest, when it comes to weddings, everyone wants to know about the dress – but that is only half the story. There is a groom to consider, too!

Men dress to impress as well, and it’s not as simple as just swapping from casual wear to any old suit. There is just as much thought that goes into the groom’s attire, and that of his best man, the father of the bride...and so on.

Northampton-based Saint Crispin Bespoke Menswear knows how to give leading men their perfect styling for the perfect day – irrespective of whether the wedding will happen at home, or away.

Dean Anderson has spent three and a half decades dressing men, and there have been lots of natural changes with the passing of time.

“Men of all ages are now far more conscious of their visual appearance than ever before, and many have never needed to wear a suit ever, so there is even more pressure to find the right suiting,” he explained.

A wedding suit is never ‘just’ a suit, and creativity rules here too!

“It needs to reflect the formality of the surroundings and how the bride is dressed,” Dean explains, “A bespoke suit will allow the groom to create his own very individual stamp, while also taking into consideration the bride’s colour themes.

“The sky’s the limit from the selection of fabric type, colour, linings, button finishes to hidden touches of the couples’ initials on the inside of the jacket or on the cuff. Everything is chosen to the groom’s specifications.

“The groom’s suit is vitally important in the overall look and feel of the occasion,” Dean added.

The same attention will be given to all the groom’s men and the father of the bridewhether a formal two-piece single breasted suit, or a double breasted three piece suit, it needs to be perfect.

If you are thinking of holding your church or civil ceremony abroad, you’ll also need to take into account the heat – you’ll still need to cut a sharp figure and any tailor worth his salt, and given enough notice, can sort that for you.

You need to look as though you are keeping your cool irrespective of those rising temperatures!

Remember, bespoke garments take time to create, and Dean advises that you give your tailor at least six month’s notice. The perfect fit really is just a call away.

> Visit Saint Crispin Bespoke Menswear at saintcrispin.co.uk

Email enquiries@saintcrispin.co.uk or call 01604 589907

Euthymia Cakes can design a cake that matches your theme for the day or something that just shouts ‘you’

Get the bespoke look for your Wedding Day

You will never be able to compare a bespoke made suit to an o the peg alternative.

Church or civil ceremony, at home or abroad. Wherever your dream wedding is we can help you nd the best, bespoke, high quality wedding suits.

Watch our Wedding Suits video and nd out more

Help Northamptonshire Health Charity keep parents close to their unwell babies on local neonatal unit

Northamptonshire Health Charity is fundraising to help ensure that more parents can stay closer to their unwell baby being cared for by Gosset Ward, the neonatal unit at Northampton General Hospital. Gosset ward has 20 cots and a dedicated medical team who look after around 400 babies per year. Some babies are as much as 18 weeks premature, weighing less than a bag of sugar, and stay in the hospital for over four months.

When a baby is unwell, it is understandable that parents will want to stay close to them and Northamptonshire Health Charity wants to support parents at such a difficult time . Little in life could be more upsetting; your baby is sick in the hospital, but you have to go home. This places a great strain on parents, who spend many hours each week travelling back and forth to the hospital, leaving their baby at night.

Michelle Hardwick, Matron for Child Health said, “Every year, the unit cares for many sick babies from all around the Midlands and sometimes even further afield. Currently, we have one parents bedroom for a 20-cot unit, which is not enough to support the needs of all the families whose babies we care for. We want to build on-site accommodation so more parents can be closer to their baby for more of the time during their stay in hospital.”

As NHS funding is limited and providing such accommodation is above and beyond what can be funded, with your donations and fundraising you can help the team build a twobedroom en-suite parent block very near to the unit. Dr Nick Barnes, Consultant Paediatrician and Lead Consultant for Neonates said, “No matter how large or small, every donation will really help. Charitable donations really make a significant difference to the care the

Northampton neonatal unit can provide, particularly in helping parents through a very challenging time.”

> Find out how you can get involved via the charity’s website: northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/ appeals/gosset-ward-parent-rooms or contact the charity team on 01604 626927 or email greenheart@nhcf.co.uk

Private Oncology Services Offered in Northamptonshire

At Three Shires Hospital, our Macmillan accredited Oncology Department in Northampton provides you with fast access to treatment in a comfortable and friendly setting.

How quickly can I be seen at the Three Shires?

At Three Shires Hospital, our Oncology Department treats a wide range of cancers including:

• Breast

• Bowel

• Bladder

• Prostate

• Head & Neck

• Pancreatic

• Gynaecological

• Lung

• Brain tumor

• Kidney

If you’ve got symptoms, your GP can refer you to the necessary consultant here at the Three Shires Hospital. Depending on your diagnosis, you could potentially start treatment within a week.

What can you expect when you come and see us at Three Shires Hospital?

It’s quite relaxed in our Oncology department, so the atmosphere is very nice for patients and their families. We do encourage all our patients to come in with their family members, as when you first start your treatment, you’ll come for a pre-chemo chat whereby you get to see the department and meet the staff.

What do you love about working in Oncology?

The ability to have an impact on someone when they are going through possibly one of the hardest times of their life. Being able to support, help and advise people throughout their experiences is the reason I do what I do.

What kind of support is available to me?

No matter your concerns, our specialist Oncology nurses are available 24/7. We hold an emergency phone where you can contact one of our specialist nurses out of hours. If you have side effects from your treatment or any general concerns, our nurses will be on board to assist.

If you would like to book an appointment with one of our specialist consultants, please call 01604 620311.

Dr. Diana Rose Head of Family Law

No-fault divorce A step-by-step guide

NORTHAMPTON

29 Billing Road

Northampton NN1 5DQ 01604 622101

KETTERING

18 Brooklands Court

Kettering Venture Park

Kettering NN15 6FD 01536 523434

bmtclaw.co.uk

Since April 2022, couples have been able to seek a divorce after one year of marriage without having to blame their former partner for any reason. Prior to the change in the law, couples who agreed to separate had to wait at least two years before they could divorce. If they wanted a divorce prior to this, then blame had to be attributed to their spouse. There were no alternative options.

Diana Rose, a Partner in the family team with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston in Kettering explains, ‘Thankfully the introduction of no-fault divorce means you can now petition straight away without blame being attributed to either spouse. It is hoped this will lead to less acrimony.’

Diana Rose provides a step-by-step guide to the no-fault divorce process.

Step 1 - Consult an experienced family solicitor

Divorce is not a step anyone takes lightly. It will mean significant changes for your family, and for your finances. It is important that you speak to a specialist family lawyer about the implications and how you and any children can be looked after best.

Step 2 - The application

Once you have decided to proceed with a divorce, your Solicitor will draft the required court papers for you. You must have been married at least one year before you can apply for divorce.

If you and your former spouse both agree that the marriage has ended, then you can apply for divorce jointly. The draft the application will be lodged together with your marriage certificate at the court office.

Step 3 - Wait for court papers

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.

Your application will then be processed by the court. This step is known as the court ‘issuing’ your divorce. The timescale for this occurring varies, but it usually takes around two to four weeks.

Step 4 - The acknowledgement

If you have applied jointly, you and your former spouse will

have to complete an acknowledgement of receipt of the court papers.

Step 5 - Reflection period

A 20-week period for reflection follows. It allows couples to adjust to their divorce, and time to discuss any child or financial arrangements needed.

Step

6 - Conditional order

After the expiry of the 20-week reflection period from when your divorce application was issued, your Solicitor can apply for a conditional order (this used to be called a decree nisi).

It is an order confirming that the court is satisfied there is no legal reason why you cannot divorce.

Step 7 - Cooling off period

After the making of the conditional order, you enter a six week ‘cooling off’ period. The period of six weeks remains from the previous divorce process and allows couples to ensure they really do wish to proceed to dissolve their marriage.

Step 8 - Final order

At the expiry of the cooling off period, your Solicitor can apply for your final order (previously known as the decree absolute). It is not until your final order is made that your divorce is legally finalised, and your marriage dissolved.

How we can help

We can advise you on your rights and entitlements and help you to reach an amicable way forward with your former spouse. If an agreement is not possible, then we can advise you on the options you have via mediation or court.

If you are contemplating divorce, or just want some preliminary advice on the steps involved and what it would mean for you, please contact Diana Rose in the family law team on 01604 622101 or email diana.rose@ bmtclaw.co.uk

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

Cupid is sharpening his arrow as we speak and Valentine’s Day is approaching. Here are some fragrant ways to say ‘I heart you’ this February 14...

Goodness, this has all the allure of a sweet temptation, but it’s for the tub!

Lush’s Strawberry Crumble Bubbleroon is a heart-shaped, fruity package bursting with fair trade cocoa and shea butter cream.

Crumble and swish in the bath and it will reward you with soft pink waters and fluffy bubbles –perfect to soothe and moisturise.

RRP: £6.95

Get it: All Lush products are available at Lush stores at centre:mk and Northampton Grosvenor Centre

Kiss From A Rose Gift needs to be added to a bath of H20. It’s a different sort of bouquet, but one with its own bouquet – both the Rose Jam Bubbleroon and the Black Rose Bath Bomb are perfumed with Pakistani rose absolute. Flower power is well and truly back.

£14

Rubis tweezers are a compact beauty staple. The Switzerland-made pieces offer slanted tips and superior accuracy as standard – and their extensive range includes the perfect tweezers for Valentine’s Day, which come with a delicately engraved heart. A reminder that they are special every time they pluck!

amazon.co.uk

Jean Paul Gaultier’s Classique eau de parfum’s scarlet red bust-bottle is just perfect for February 14 – it’s a clear ode to the beauty of woman and features JPG’s quintessential wardrobe item; the corset, a symbol of seduction and sensuality. Delicate rose, star anise, fresh ginger and orange blossom come together in a perfect fragrance for day or night.

RRP: £78

Get it: thefragranceshop.co.uk

pretty packaged gift pulls together eight treats bursting with floral and citrus scents for body care, bath and shower time. Products include a Love shower gel, True Romance massage bar, Sex Bomb bath bomb and Floating Island bath melt, and it’s fully vegan.

RRP: £54

Why bother going for a little walk under the moon of love, you can spray it, instead?

Ghost Orb of Night Eau De Parfum invites the receiver to rendezvous beneath a rose moon and make way for dawn...

RRP: £27 (30ml), £38 (50ml)

Get it: Superdrug branches at centre:mk and Northampton Grosvenor Centre

Show her that she’s your number One with the fragrance by Jennifer Lopez. One is internal and eternal, a scent to inspire confidence and peace with its combination of Pink Pepper, the delicate florals of Freesia and Peach Blossom, and heart notes including Patchouli, Oakmoss and Amber. The fragrance is housed in a soft blush toned bottle, which is every bit as elegant and feminine as its famous creator.

RRP: £23 (30ml), £32 (50ml)

Get it: Boots branches at centre:mk and Northampton Grosvenor Centre

February in Italy means Carnival, festival of masquerade, colours and music. Up and down the country, all regions celebrate in their own way, but with the same spirit: to have FUN. And not only dancing through the streets to the loud rhythm but having fun with food as well.

METHOD

1. Place all ingredients in a bowl and combine to a smooth doughball

Let this rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature.

Once the dough has rested, divide it into three parts and start rolling ensuring multiple folds, to allow for the dough to create lovely and crispy bubbles. You can use a pasta machine, but you can easily make them using a rolling pin.

Once the dough has reached a 1p coin thickness, cut into strips about 5cm wide and 10cm long.

Once all prepared, fry at 160° C until golden. Before serving, dust with icing sugar.

T&K’s Insulate+ Replacement Roof system creates an all-year round living space

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 launch of a new solid roof system offers 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. Monthly repayment plans are available to spread the costs for up to ten years.

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

T&K Home Improvements are celebrating their 44th anniversary in February with a limited offer – up to 44 per cent off all products. The offer, which ends on February 28th, will mean yet more clients can discover just what makes the company’s quality installations stand out from the crowd.

The company has a 98 per cent recommendation on Which? and products have police approved security. It was named UK Manufacturer of the Year in 2021 and UK Installer of the Year in 2022. Call now on 0800 622 716 or visit www.tkhi.co.uk Quote NEWROOF44.

Visiting Three Shires Hospital

At Three Shires Hospital, we see both Private and NHS patients! We will assess your problem quickly and build a bespoke treatment plan around your individual needs. If you’re an NHS patient, why not speak to your GP about getting referred to us? Private patients can simply call, or book online.

Take a look at some of the services we offer:

Cardiology

Cosmetic Surgery

Dermatology

Ear, nose & throat (ENT) services

Gastroenterology

General surgery

Imaging Department with MRI, Ultrasound, X-ray and Fluoroscopy

Men’s Health

Oncology

Ophthalmology

Orthopaedics

Pain management

Physiotherapy

Rheumatology

Women’s Health

Had a carpal tunnel op. All staff from reception to surgery were amazing, friendly, and informative. Questions were answered quickly and effectively. Google review 2022

To find out more information you can scan the QR code or you can call us on 01604 620311 to arrange an appointment!

DIGGING DEEP The Big Garden Birdwatch

If you are sat with a hot-off-the-press copy of Pulse, you will still be in time to partake in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch this year.

In the last 50 years due to the nature and climate emergency more than 38 million birds have been lost from UK skies.

The Big Garden Birdwatch is an opportunity to document what is happening to the birdlife where you live, by simply counting the birds on your balcony, in your garden or in your local green space for one hour.

But even if you’ve missed the chirpy event in 2023 (over the weekend of January 27-29) there is nothing to stop you encouraging and enticing feathered friends to your garden right away.

If you want to incorporate a bird feeder or table into your garden, think about where it will be most useful – it should be somewhere quiet and safe. Avoid placing it close to bushes where predators could be waiting, but ensure it is close enough to cover so the birds can easily dart to and from the table. And it should be sheltered from harsh winds.

Disease is easily spread and can be fatal, so bird feeders need to be cleaned weekly with warm soapy water and dried thoroughly before refilling.

A constant water source is just as important – a saucer or shallow plastic tub will suffice; birds don’t care about the pattern on the pot! Don’t be surprised if you don’t have an influx of beaky sorts flying in on day one, it can take a while for them to find and explore a new feeder, but patience will pay off.

Top Tip ...

There can be a tendency to hold back from getting out into the early year chill, but this is the time to get busy – plan now, and you’ll reap the success later.

What summer bulbs are you thinking of? Gladioli perhaps, lilies maybe? Get them ordered, and start looking at those planting positions.

Prune evergreens and winter-flowering shrubs that have bloomed, and with frost a concern, tree and soft fruit can use a helping hand if they are to crop well; small fruit trees will benefit from fleece covers (overnight only, remove during the day). Strawberries will also benefit from the same treatment, or the use of a cloche.

Not all birds will use feeders and blackbirds are ground eaters who enjoy getting stuck into fatty nibbles and mealworms.

Don’t have a garden? No problem – you can still attract birds to your property; even if you live in a flat, a little bird feeder attached to the window will attract tits and prove a far better source of entertainment than the small screen!

We have a feeder attached to an upstairs window and have enjoyed generations of blue tit and great tits families visiting daily for the past few years.

Pigeons and collared doves drink from the water tub attached to the ledge, and the fat balls hanging from the window proved a regular temptation for a magnificent great spotted woodpecker last summer.

Robins seemed all the more visible during the recent cold snap; one landed at our feet outside a shop in a very urban setting – the ground was snow covered and hard, and food scarce. I took to leaving the house with a pocket full of seeds and nuts to help them out!

In readiness for spring planting, I cleared a yard of weeds and general garden waste while the snow was down and a robin introduced himself and patiently sat on the fence hoping to hoover up any little live snacks I uncovered. They are called the gardener’s friend with good reason!

Birds bring colour, life and delight to gardens. Ditch the plastic grass and set about improving their lives. In return, they’ll remind you to stop, slow down and appreciate their beauty - and the sound of birdsong is food for the soul.

> For more details about the Big Garden Birdwatch visit rspb.org.uk

How does your garden grow?

Snowdrops – the joy of spring! I am going to dig up individual or small groups of snowdrops which appear in odd places around the garden and replant them together to make larger groups, for more visual impact.

I have been tidying-up the overwintered perennials, removing dead stems and leaves, then working the surrounding soil with a hand fork.

The birds soon find pest larvae and slug eggs which have overwintered.

The wisteria over the French window needs pruning. I take the side shoots down to two or three buds from the main framework branches.

The white-flowered Buddleja at the side of the driveway needs to be pruned severely, as it flowers on new growth,

I will be sowing sweet peas, three seeds in a cream pot (which has had some holes made at the base for drainage) to give them a deep root run, hoping to make a better show than last year.

My Dahlia tubers did not like the drought of the summer. I’ll soak them before planting them up in potting compost.

Two of my bird boxes were not used last spring. After cleaning them out I will reposition them in the other garden.

Looking forward to better weather with growing anticipation!

> 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

Ralph Westmoreland, Denton & District Gardening Club member

Pic: Nigel Blake rspb-images.com

Don’t be afraid of the dark

It is widely believed that white or pale walls are best for interiors if light and airy spaces are to be created, or if one wants to visually maximise the size of a room. It is also assumed by many that dark colours will make a room look smaller, feel claustrophobic or not be a good decision when it comes to interior design. Whilst light rooms will certainly bring energy to a space, help bounce light around a room and can be a good backdrop for most styles or preferences, brilliant white walls or pale hues such as those on the blue, green or purple spectrum, can give the impression of coldness, or even over-exaggerate the feeling of space, making it feel sparse and unwelcoming. And contrary to popular belief, dark colours can make a room look and feel bigger, by blurring the lines of the walls, giving the illusion that the room is larger than it is. Perhaps surprisingly, this is even more true in small spaces, such as in cloakrooms or alcoves where dark tones can not only usefully hide a multitude of sins from bad plastering to wonky walls, but they can also bring a feeling of intimacy to the area, creating a comforting and cosy aesthetic that would be difficult to achieve with lighter palettes.

We should all feel at peace in our own homes, and the cocooning nature of a darker colour can help achieve that. If you’re feeling a little uncertain about stepping over to the dark side, consider how beneficial such a colour scheme could be for a bedroom. With modern technology seemingly bathing us in unnatural light for most of the day, it can be hard to switch off at bedtime and fall effortlessly into a deep slumber. By painting the walls and even the ceiling of your bedroom in a dark hue, you’re counterbalancing the effect that blue light from televisions, telephones, computer screens (and even the brightness from bulbs) can have on us. This helps to boost the production of melatonin which occurs naturally in our brains when the sun sets and as natural darkness takes over, aiding sleep. Just be mindful that if you have trouble waking in these bleak mornings of the winter months, it may be best to have sheer curtains that will let the first beams of dawn in early, or invest in a ‘daylight’ alarm clock, which can recreate the effect of the rising sun and help you wake up slowly and more naturally.

Studies have shown that painting a baby’s room in a dark colour (yes, even black!) will help them maintain a healthy sleep cycle and contribute to good brain development. New born babies only see in shades of black, white and grey. Once they become slightly older – normally from 4 months old – they start to see in colour, so bright accents provided in the form of toys, soft furnishings and artwork will all play their part in stimulating brain development. Whether the walls are painted black, forest green, navy blue or steel grey, accent colours will pop out against the darker backgrounds.

Dining rooms are also the perfect place to play around with a darker colour palette. There is a reason why many restaurants and bars have interiors with lower levels of lighting, moody walls and deep coloured furniture paired with sumptuous jewel toned banquette seating and plush, contrasting accent colours. It creates a feeling of intimacy, helping you stay focused on the company you are keeping, as well as the food that you are eating or the drink that you are enjoying. The same effect can be achieved in the home, choosing darker paints and wallpapers and curtains or dining chair

Pic: Paul Esch-Laurent, unsplash Pic: Beazy, unsplash

Pic: Aaina Sharma, unsplash

fabrics with texture. For a full-on, cosy aesthetic, opt for a dining table and sideboard in a darker stain wood, select rich colours for the soft furnishings, and if you are willing to risk the odd spillage or stain, have an accent rug under the dining table.

Paler woods, the addition of mirrors on the walls and metallic accessories, can help the room feel airy and will help to reflect natural light in the daytime. Good lighting above the table, paired with lower lights dotted around the room such as table and floor lamps, will give a really luxurious restaurant vibe to your everyday dining experience, creating a wow factor that is perfect for hosting friends and family for memorable meals.

If black is your go-to dark, then there are plenty to choose from. Whether you stay close to pitch black or opt for an interesting variation, Farrow and Ball, Little Greene Paint Company, Mylands, Zoffany, Lick, Sanderson, Designers Guild, Dulux and Crown, all do their own versions. There are a vast array of “off blacks” with Little Greene advertising on its website –warm red based blacks, cool blue based blacks, green based blacks and warm blacks with a hint of brown. Alternatively, dark greens, navy blues, rusty reds, aubergine purples and deep browns all have their own virtues so purchase a few sample pots and paint them on pieces of paper to test on the various walls of your room. It is critical to see how both the natural and artificial light reacts with the colour during the different times of day and evening. Bright contrasting colours in accessories or soft furnishings will stop the design looking drab and will add a freshness. There really is no limit on where or how you can use dark colours, they lend themselves to all aesthetics; be it Scandinavian, industrial, mid-century, maximalism or minimalism.

Artist Spotlight: Quentin Blake and Roald Dahl, Champions of the World T

here are few illustrators in the world whose work is as recognisable as that of Sir Quentin Blake, and his relationship with the author Roald Dahl is perhaps one of the most loved partnerships in literature.

Now celebrating Blake’s 90th birthday, we’re also grateful for his work as a successful children’s author in his own right, creating stories and characters with vibrant illustrations in his own unique style. Author Jenny Uglow is quoted as says “All Quentin’s solo books have a low-key optimism, a belief in tolerance and in the ability of people to help each other”.

Quentin Blake has been recognised publicly on many occasions and was awarded Companion of Honour in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2022 for services to illustration.

Words and Pictures, Pictures and Words

Born in London in 1932, Quentin Blake says he has been drawing for as long as he can remember. Having spent his career in illustration and teaching, he has worked with numerous writers, providing his vision for classic books, and creating his own characters and stories too.

Working together from 1976 - with The Enormous Crocodile - until Dahl’s death in 1990, Blake illustrated all but one of Roald Dahl’s books and has been quoted as saying his favourite is ‘The BFG’.

While speaking of Blake, Dahl said he was “The finest illustrator of children’s books in the world today!”

For many of us, it seems impossible to imagine characters such as The BFG, Matilda or The Twits without visualising the illustrations we know and love. While, equally, it’s impossible to know if the classic stories of Roald Dahl would have had the same impact or appreciation without the accompanying artwork.

The Children’s IllustratorProviding Memories and Inspiration

Exploring the work of the partnership, you may be inspired by your favourite character such as Matilda or The BFG, or a favourite moment like the discovery of The Golden Ticket in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Among the stories told by Blake and Dahl there are so many such moments and characters to choose from.

We are very fortunate that Blake has released his work in the form of limited edition prints, enabling us to relive favourite moments again and again, giving them pride of place on our walls or sharing them with those we love. This month the gallery is celebrating Quentin Blake’s 90th birthday with some special Official Birthday Collector’s Edition Prints.

Celine Lee Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

Pic: Volkan Vardar, unsplash

Pic: Devon Janse van Rensburg, unsplash

#WhatsOnPulse

Masque at 90 Exhibition Wednesday, February 1Sunday February 19 (Tues-Sun, 10am-5pm)

Celebrate 90 years of Masque at The Gallery, upstairs at 78 Derngate, Northampton, free. Dramatic: royalandderngate.com

Beauty and the Beast

Saturday, February 4, 7.30pm

Ballet Theatre UK brings one of the most enchanting love stories of all to the stage of The Old Savoy, all set to a new score. Classic: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Mozart Requiem Choral Day

Saturday, February 4, 9am

The Amelcote Chorale invites singers to join with them for a workshop day with renowned choral director Nigel Perrin and organist Andrew King, at the Holy Cross Church, Pattishall, 9am-4pm, performance from 4.30pm. Get involved: gstuart@morecambemoments.com

Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls

Monday, February 6, 7pm

Chosen by Danny Boyle to perform at the opening of the 2012 Olympic Games, Frank’s solo career is 17 years long, and has delivered success after another. Support comes from Lottery Winners and Wilswood Buoys.

The Next Storm: theroadmender.com

Come What May with Robin Windsor Wednesday, February 8, 7.30pm

Enter the secret world of one of the greatest movie-musicals of all time, with an allsinging, all-dancing extravaganza paying tribute to the Moulin Rouge. Strictly star Robin Windsor leads the cast for this journey into the sexy, disreputable and glamorous underworld of Paris.

Ooh-la-la: thecorecorby.com

Madison Violet Thursday, February 9

Brenley and Lisa bring their heart-wrenching songwriting and luscious harmonies back to The Stables in Wavendon. Folk, Americana and pop hooks combine to great effect. Everything’s Shifting: stables.org

Comedy at the Cock Thursday, February 9, 7.45pm

Join MC Aaron Twitchen, Ola Labib and Ignacio Lopez who will be giving you laughing gas under the tried and tested Comedy Cow banner, at the Cock Hotel in Stony Stratford. Funny moo: thecomedycow.co.uk

The

Pure imagination: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Life of Agony Saturday, February 11

Join the New York heavies as they celebrate the 30 year anniversary of their debut album, River Runs Red at The Craufurd Arms in Wolverton. Madball support. Scars: thecraufurdarms.com

Ray Bradshaw

Sunday, February 12, 8pm

Following his groundbreaking 2018 show, Deaf Comedy Fam, Ray returns with his new stand-up set, Deaf Com 1, covering fatherhood, teaching his young son sign language and a disastrous trip to Bahrain!

CODA: royalandderngate.co.uk

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Thursday, February 9 – Sunday, March 5

Roald Dahl classic enjoys a monthlong stay in Milton Keynes at the start of an extensive UK tour.

Mike Bubbins visits The Underground in Northampton on February 17

Catch Ray Bradshaw on February 12

Denton Gardening Club

Monday, February 13, 7.30pm

The club welcomes speaker Bev Bond who will talk about Heritage Roses, at Denton Village Hall, Denton, NN7 1ST.

A blooming great time: Tel 01604 890875 or email m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk

Stables Screenings: Minions 2 –The Rise of Gru Tuesday, February 14, 2pm

The million-year-old mischievous Minions return in another exciting and funny adventure – perfect for half term! Mellow yellow: stables.org

Stables Screenings: Moulin Rouge! Tuesday, February 14, 7.30pm

When an idealistic poet is drawn into the dark, fantastical underworld of the Parisian nightclub, he finds a seedy, glamorous haven of sex, drugs and electricity –not to mention a passionate love affair. Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman star in the tragic love story. Reel affair: stables.org

Suzanne Vega

Wednesday, February 15, 7.30pm

A unique artist with a back catalogue of music that is unrivalled. Nearly four decades since she issued her debut album and the masterful storyteller is as vital as ever.

Left of Center: royalandderngate.co.uk

Mike Bubbins - Throwback

Friday, February 17, 8pm

The star of hit podcast The Socially Distant Sports Bar and BBC comedies Mammoth and Tourist Trap comes to the Underground with a powerful, thought-provoking, visceral 90 minutes of stand-up.

Comedy class: royalandderngate.co.uk

Circus Spectacular!

Friday, February 17, 3pm

Perfect for all ages, this circus style variety show is bursting with circus acts, amazing magic and laughs aplenty, all culminating in a ‘slosh’ finale... but the first four rows will be provided with rain macs!

Splash-tastic: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Woman Like Me – The Little Mix Show

Saturday, February 18, 7pm

Suitable for kids, tweens, teens and adults alike, this show will bring the full pop concert experience to you – with the playlist you expect, including Black Magic, Power, Shout Out To My Ex and many more. Break Up Song: thecorecorby.com

Ugly Duckling

Thursday, February 23

Northern Ballet retells the famous Hans Christian Andersen fairytale with a production specifically for little folks to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time. They won’t have time to get fidgety either – the show is a perfect 40 minute delivery. Toe-ing the line: thecorecorby.com

Beans on Toast

Friday, February 24, 8pm

Poetic, witty and very smart. Beans is back in MK following tours with Frank Turner and Flogging Molly.

Beans means smart folk: mk11kilnfarm.com

Psychic Sally Friday, February 24, 7.30pm

Bringing mediumship into the 21st century, Sally has been entertaining audiences for more than 12 years and the psychic returns to Northampton in a show described as ‘investigational and for the purpose of entertainment.’

Messages: theoldsavoy.co.uk

Sir-Vere

Friday, February 24, 7.30pm

The band will host its Lovescope album launch at the Wolverton venue. The Sound of the Crowd are special guests. First listen: thecraufurdarms.com

Martin Carthy & Eliza Carthy

Tuesday, February 28

Join Martin and his daughter as they make a welcome return to the Wavendon haunt that they have both shone at on many a previous occasion. For this united show they will be ‘drawing from the traditional canon as well as selections from a more contemporary songbook.’

Family affair: stables.org

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

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

New York rockers Life of Agony are playing The Craufurd Arms in Wolverton on February 11

Time to celebrate the indies

Independent Venue Week (IVW) is a beast of a weeklong bash, celebrating independent music and arts venues, and the dedicated folks who run and work in them.

Given the problems of the past few years, this seven-day session is needed more than ever, and across the UK more than 200 venues take part.

Here in the shoe town, The Black Prince is ready to party hard with five gigs happening under the IVW banner.

Brummie boys Overpass are up first (Feb 1) and if the past is an indication of what’s to come, 2023 will rock for this lot, who have already enjoyed support slots with The Snuts and The Twang.

At home, their fanbase is such that they’ve sold-out the 02 Institute2, and they’ve roared on the festival circuit, too – Isle of Wight, Truck and Y-Not? have all welcomed them.

Support will come from Sunderland son Tom A. Smith, a fella who played his first proper gig aged eight, had played Glasto before he was in secondary school and who Tim Burgess handpicked to play his stage at Kendal Calling.

In the same week that David Bowie passed away, Bowie’s widow Iman shared Tom’s cover of Lazarus, and Morrissey played Tom’s cover of Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want as his walk on music during a recent tour of the US.

Oh yeah, and Nile Rogers and The Coral have shared footage of this fella at his craft. High praise doesn’t quite cut it. It’s staggering, right?

“It’s never normal,” Tom says, “Every single time it happens it’s surreal. Music is always what I wanted to do. I just fell in love with it. I asked for guitar lessons when I was four. It’s all I’ve ever known.”

County-based alternative trio Clearcut complete the bill.

A co-headliner is on the cards for night two (Feb 2) with Lizzie Esau and George O’Hanlon bumping heads in the best sense.

Lizzie issued four singles in 2022, and the last one, Stay on the Phone explores the vulnerability of walking home late at night. She wants more conversations about why women are having to live with layers of safety measures in order to go about their general business. She is bang on the money.

Speaking about the release, Lizzie said: “I’d obviously felt that helpless fear before, but it wasn’t something that was immediately obvious to write about because it’s so ingrained in everyday life. After the murder of Sarah Everard and activist speeches I heard during my studies, the subdued thoughts in my brain tumbled out and I bluntly wrote exactly what I was thinking.”

An EP is set for due this spring, but first go catch the live drift.

Dorking deliverer George takes influence from music aces Dylan, Buckley and Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, while show opener Viddy will cut

loose hypnotising bass lines and suave guitar, with a sprinkling of electronica and tender vocals which compress into little mellow pop pieces.

Delights lived up to their name the last time they came through these parts, and they are back due to popular demand (Feb 3).

The Manchester music makers have been called ‘kaleidoscopic guitar janglers who are heading for the stratosphere’!

A debut elpee Cool Sports was issued last year and they’ve bent more than a few ears through Spotify; more than 2,000,000 streams and counting is damn impressive.

Indie rockers Pavilion, a new musical meeting with members from here in the ShoeTown and Londinium, will also play for you. Lite Sleeper opens this bill.

What did you just say? You’re desperate for a session of excelsior modernist pop music? We thought so. Luckily, Pale Blue Eyes (Feb 4) are ready to serve it up for you, as heard on their debut album Souvenirs. In times that are pretty bleak, this trio makes music pulsing with exhilaration.

Sticking a musical finger up to the negativity. Support comes from Tvål – featuring two former members of Thee Telepaths - who put electronic psychedelia on the menu while warming you up nicely for the rest of the night.

NME reckons the sextet Opus Kink (Feb 5) plays ‘Horn-filled filth-funk, where punk and jazz combine in grimy circumstances.’

Sounds good in print and should sound amazing when put through the PA.

Local risers Bloody/Bath and Eddz will also play for you – get in early for the full roar.

> Tickets for all shows are at sbdpromotions.com

From the top: Tom A. Smith, Delights, George O’Hanlon, Pale Blue Eyes and Lizzie Esau - all featuring at at The Black Prince during Independent Venue Week

Overpass (top) and Opus Kink form part of an impressive bill at IVW

Large Plants spring up in the ‘fampton

After a bustling week of IVW shows, you might think that promoter Phil Moore would kick back, put his feet up and decompress. But you’d be wrong –there are other gigs in the diary for the month, starting with Eater on February 11.

Andy Blade has rebranded his crew which now features a group of young glam gunslingers, giving the band a distinctly 21st century slant.

In October, Eater played with J Mascis’ Dinosaur Jr and there are US shows, a single and an album on the horizon this new year.

Jamie Perrett is up in support. Some of you will remember Jamie for his time as the original guitarist in Babyshambles, but he’s a solo artist and producer in his own right, and a fella who has rock ‘n’ roll coursing through his heart, mind, body and soul.

A couple of weeks later – on February 25 – Large Plants will visit.

Jack Sharp is the mastermind behind this band, and a man who formerly plied his trade with psych-folkers Wolf People.

‘An end of the world doom-folk party imbued with the rich vein of bucolic sorrow that Sharp’s vocal never fails to convey,’ is the spiel.

Go tappety-tap to those listening platforms, or rock up to YouTube and meet your favourite new band. Their cover of

Her name is Vega

Can we show a little appreciation for songwriting force Suzanne Vega, who plays the Derngate on February 15? Tickets are rarer than hen’s teeth, but small surprise, she is a masterclass in making music that connects. We last saw Suzanne in the early noughties over in Milton Keynes, and she was sublime. An artist in the truest sense of the word, known for those radio familiars Luka, Marlene on the Wall and Tom’s Diner (we visited there once) but with a body of work almost four decades long, and with no room for average. And to think, back in the day her demo tape was pushed aside by every major record label.

> Try for returns for the Derngate date at royalandderngate.co.uk

Sharp new compilation is on the way

Last spring we shared details of the upcoming compilation, Glass: Remade/Remodelled, a celebration of 40 years of the razor-sharp Glass Records label.

Venus Fly Trap features on the 20 track release, with their cover of the Religious Overdose song, Control Addicts. For frontman Alex, it wasn’t that much of a stretch though – he was the singer with Religious Overdose back in the day.

“It seems I have come full circle as far as releasing material on the label,” Alex said, “We have done various releases on Glass, including the Venus Fly Trap album Icon, a compilation of all the bands I have been involved in, and Mercurial, and other reissues on CD and download.”

> Remade/Remodelled is now set to ship towards the end of February – go get yours through glassmodern.bandcamp.com

Madge’s La Isla Bonita is a dream, but they’ve a good crop of their own stuff to get stuck into on their debut album, The Carrier Haunting, eerie tracks that take root in your crevices!

Support comes from Fountain

Billy readies album number two

Northampton’s lauded singer-songwriter Billy Lockett releases his second album, Abington Grove on February 17. Pick up next month’s Pulse Magazine for our feature with the man behind the music.

Large Plants (top) and Fountain are at The Black Prince in February

Eater are on the bill at The Black Prince on February 11

Sarpa spring into action

We’ve shared the details about the bumper crop of Independent Venue Week shows set to cause a commotion at The Black Prince in February, but local leaders Sarpa Salpa are playing their part too – with a tour of some of their favourite regional gig haunts as part of IVW week.

The five-date jaunt is a co-headline with Low Girl and follows on from the single release, She Never Lies, which has kickstarted their 2023 campaign.

“She Never Lies was one of the first songs we wrote together as a band,” said guitarist George Neath, “We wrote it a long time ago, back when we still rehearsed at Marcus’ (vocalist) parents house!

“It’s become somewhat of a live favourite and it felt like the perfect time to re-visit it in a studio setting and give the track the full single treatment it deserves. We’re so proud of how it turned out and think it’s some of our best work to date!”

Sarpa Salpa and Low Girl will play:

The Portland Arms, Cambridge – February 2 Club 85, Hitchin – February 3 Icebreaker Festival, Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth – February 4 The Horn, St Albans – February 5

> Tickets for all shows are on sale through seetickets.com

Welcome to the Church of noise

It’s a warm, retro expansive release with a wry smile, led by the character, Reverend John Smallwood. It’s anything but run of the mill!

Incredible though it might seem, it’s been more than 25 years since Crispian and co. delivered their debut album, K, but it was the lockdown that saw Kula Shaker call time on their most recent hiatus and reconvene.

“Obviously, it was a weird time for everyone, but it brought us together,” Crispian said, “I think the whole experience reinforced our love of music and our beliefs in why we started playing as a band in the first place...it was kind of a reawakening.”

Song ideas floated at a time when Crispian was teaching his kids ukulele, and so that is how many of these tracks began life. When the kids moved on to guitars so too did the songs that would feature on their conceptual, doublealbum, 1st Congregational Church Of Eternal Love (and free hugs).

“Without a shadow of doubt, watching my kids play noisy rock and roll brought me back to life, and I fell in love with guitar playing all over again,” Crispian said.

“One of my favourite rock & roll quotes is from Eric Burdon of The Animals,” Crispian adds, “He said, ‘You don’t play rock and roll - you preach it.’ You have to play this sort of music as if your very life depended on it, otherwise go home.”

Catch Kula Shaker at the Roadmender on February 1.

Sheffield sons Reverend & The Makers play the venue on February 3, which will finally give fans their live fill – it’s been four years since the band last toured. They’ve good reason to jump in the bus though – the release of their seventh album, Heatwave In The Cold North is nigh.

Last summer a single by the same name was issued, and Jon ‘Rev’ McClure said it was akin to the feeling of “lazing around on a sunny day with your lover getting stoned. Imagine if Barry White lived in Sheffield and you’re getting there.”

That might have been just about feasible for the brain in the heatwave of 2022. In Northampton, in February? We’re not quite there...

This is the second date on their UK tour which will wind up with a two-night special playing

in front of the home crowd at the Sheffield 02 Academy. Support on the jaunt comes from Ramona Flowers.

Tickets to see Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls on February 6 are all gone, which is hardly a surprise, but if classic rock’s your thing, Letz Zep return on the 10th of the month, and word has it these fellas are more than a little bit good. But don’t take our word for it - this lot have been given the thumbs up by the real Page and Plant.

If the thought of bingo fused with smash hits from the 90s and noughties is getting you excited, you’ll need to grab a ticket for Bingo Loco (Feb 11) which will also deliver confetti showers, dance offs and lip sync battles...

There’s more tribute stuff from The Doors Alive (Feb 17) and The Floyd Effect (Feb 18) followed by the ‘thinking person’s pop group’ Blow Monkeys, who are responsible for 80s deliveries like Digging Your Scene and It Doesn’t Have To Be This Way

The sophisti-band brings its Journey To You tour to the ‘mender on February 24, followed a day later by Hybrid Minds, but that’s another sell-out. You snooze, you lose.

> For shows where tickets are available visit theroadmender.com

Sarpa Salpa will also play a London show, at the Lexington, on February 28, and will announce a hometown date later in the spring.

Sarpa Salpa are set to celebrate Independent Venue Week with a tour of their favourite regional venues

Kula Shaker

What the Dickens?! An Unexpected Twist at The Royal

You’ll be hard pushed to find a much more varied programme of theatre events than that offered by Royal & Derngate this coming month. And with half term on the horizon, The Old Savoy has a programme of great things for little folks, much to the relief of parents across the town!

Sammy Jones has the round-up...

Henry Blofeld is back with the new show, My Dear Old Things (Feb 2) which sees him share memories of his days as a young England hopeful, how an Eton bus knocked him off his stride and how he went from a career in the City to tapping the keys as a cricket journalist. A witty, engaging evening awaits anyone batty about cricket.

Funny fella Tom Stade will take The High Road to The Royal (Feb 3), and Giovanni Pernice, Strictly’s 2021 dancing champ, invited you to journey to his homeland with Made In Italy (Feb 5).

An Evening with Tim Rice (Feb 6) is a chance to listen to material from Evita, The Lion King, Chess, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Joseph and His Technicolour Dreamcoat at the Derngate.

“I have had the good fortune to work with some of the greatest composers of our time, including Andrew Lloyd Webber, Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, Elton John and Alan Menken, without whose wonderful melodies I’d be at home watching television,” he said.

Vocals will come from The Duncan Waugh Band.

Great British Bake Off judge Pru Leith promises nothing is off the menu in her first ever live show, which will give you an insight into her life as a successful restaurateur, novelist and businesswoman. After the main course, she will be joined for ‘pudding’ by Clive Tulloh, who will put your questions to her.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will present some of the best blockbuster film

scores of all time; from Star Wars and Jurassic Park to Schindler’s List (Feb 10).

Alfie Moore’s Fair Cop Unleashed Underground show (Feb 10) is sold-out, but try now for his return date on April 21.

Queen Extravaganza will rock fans (Feb 11) at the Derngate, and Jon Richardson brings The Knitwit (Feb 12) to the stage, asking the sort of questions that worry us too, such as ‘Will the recycling be put out on the right day?’

The same night, Ray Bradshaw will be at the Underground with Deaf Com 1. Ray grew up with deaf parents and his show will be performed in English and BSL. A clever, charming and funny night out awaits.

Author Michael Rosen has combined his new tale with the Dickens classic that inspired it, and the result, Unexpected Twist will premiere at The Royal (Feb 13-25).

Chris de Burgh (Feb 13) has enjoyed international success spanning five decades, and he’ll treat you to many of his hits, together with guitar and piano tracks from his current album on his Derngate return.

Sarah Keyworth comes to the Underground (Feb 16), Varna International Ballet (Feb 16-18) tip-toes to the Derngate and Mike Bubbins (Feb 17) brings his first ever solo stand-up tour, Throwback, to the Underground.

An interactive dance film with music and digital projection will take a light-hearted look at our sense of touch and how it influences our everyday lives, in a shared experience for children aged five to nine years and their grown-ups! It’s called Squidge (Feb 18).

Rambert Dance will deliver Peaky Blinders: The Redemption Of Thomas Shelby (Feb 2125), a sensation which The Telegraph declared a piece where ‘you can never quite tell whether you’re at a dance show or a grungy rock gig.’

Having supported some of the biggest acts in the UK Eshaan Akbar is now heading out on his debut tour, The Pretender (Feb 25), which calls in at the Underground, and a month brimming with buzzy stuff is seen

out with Strictly Ballroom The Musical (Feb 27-March 4). Based on Baz Luhrmann’s film phenomenon, it stars former Strictly Come Dancing favourite Kevin Clifton, and Strictly contestant, Eastenders’ actress Maisie Smith

At The Old Savoy, The Little Mermaid Family Panto (Feb 11, 2.30pm-5pm) will take you on an underwater adventure, promising a ‘whale of a time’ for the whole family. Then, from 7.30pm, The Little Mermaid adult panto returns. Do make sure you book for the right performance! The Amazing Bubble Man (Feb 13) will combine comedy and artistry with spellbinding tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. It’ll be lovely-bubbly!

Harry Styles fans can enjoy a tribute (Feb 15) and youngsters will want in for Milkshake Live! (Feb 16) a chance to learn songs and dances with their pals, and parents!

> Book your seats: Derngate, Royal & Underground: royalandderngate.co.uk

The Old Savoy: theoldsavoy.co.uk

From the top: Squidge, Unpexpected Twist, Kevin Clifton and Maisie Smith in Strictly Ballroom The Musical and the Great British Bake Off’s Pru Leith will be brightening up Northampton in February

View from the Far Kerb

Glitter

Imay have discovered the most enduring substance on the planet. It seems to be indestructible and determined to outlast just about everything, including my patience.

A Christmas card had arrived, its front encrusted with the material. When I opened the envelope in which it hid, the stuff drizzled out then lied about intending to remain where it had landed. Wise to its ways, I immediately brought the vacuum cleaner to bear so as to avoid giving it any time to spread throughout the house.

As I consider myself clever enough to outwit mere glittery powder, I figured the use of a small electric torch to illuminate the spillage while clearing up would be wise. From experience I knew that I could be seeing it for a long time as the light changed through the year and particles glinted according to

I returned the vacuum cleaner to its home in the cupboard under the stairs.

As I walked through the living room towards the drawer unit in which the torch usually resides, my eyes spotted a twinkle at the foot of the door into the room. Torch still in hand, I investigated and discovered a smattering of the persistent little beggars.

Before touching anything, I carefully examined the path I had walked between the original incident and the understairs cupboard. There were no further sparkles and I scratched my head, wondering how it had managed to be transferred. Then my wife suggested it was a previous Christmas card that had been hanging from the door in a rack.

A Christmas card had arrived, its front encrusted with the material. When I opened the envelope in which it hid, the stuff drizzled out then lied about intending to remain where it had landed.”

some mystical optical rules known only to itself and the physicists who specialise in its properties. However, this time I was going to beat the threat.

Had it been flour, salt, sand or any normal substance that obeys the laws of physics, the thirty minutes of vacuuming and peering as I shone my torch into various nooks and crannies would only have been two. When finally satisfied that I had picked up every single speck,

Thinking about it, she was very obviously correct. What I had discovered was the glitter from last year that I hadn’t taken enough care to clear from the carpet. We weren’t displaying any cards on the door this year as the rack broke as I took it down last year.

Or was it the year before?

With the pandemic going on, I wasn’t sure. While I set about using the vacuum cleaner to thoroughly clear the area of those pesky fragments, I tried hard to think which year it was when I broke the hanger. While on my knees and painfully removing all signs of the stuff, it occurred to me that when I had originally and obviously unsuccessfully attempted to pick it up, we had not yet bought the vacuum cleaner I was using.

That meant it had to be Christmas 2010, or possibly even earlier!

Humanity might be pretty good at destroying the planet, but it isn’t so hot at destroying all traces of glitter!

PHIL O’HARA

Pic: Michelle Grewe, flickr

Flavour of the Times - February dawns with hint of further changes in the air. Pluto may not have gone into Aquarius quite yet (which is a future cosmic biggie) but the new moon in Aquarius sets the tone for this month on 21st January. This will have brought all sorts of ideas and alternative thoughts into play so pay attention to that. Things soften in February as we go into Pisces so it’s probably a good moment to start to envision what you need for your own inner self as the year lightens up, signaling the end to the winter darkness. Maybe it’s about breaking old habits or tackling an old problem in a new way. A good month overall for just quiet reflection on what the possibilities might be this coming spring.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

January was about thinking, but February is more about feeling. Try to flex those emotional muscles rather than trying to think your way out of every situation. We know Aquarians are clever but sometimes ‘too clever by half’ so use this month to take a mental step back: maybe acknowledge some emotional ‘stuff’ that you usually push to the back of your mind.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

It’s important to recharge your batteries this month. You may have felt that you have been ‘put through the wringer’ (nobody has ‘wringers’ anymore, do they? But you know what I mean!) But your capacity to just melt into the flow is a helpful quality to have now –let go of everything you know you can’t control and believe in a positive outcome eventually.

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

Imagination comes from within not from outside. But how often do you ever listen to these inner truths? Brick walls and heads don’t go together well so make some space for reflection on what’s working and what’s not. The new moon sets the tone on Monday morning, the 20th February, - a good moment to come up with some new intentions.

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

You may have found things changing for the better towards the end of January as Uranus goes forward again and perhaps a sign of at least some welcome developments. However, too many things still feel out of your control now, ideas may abound but you will want to ground them in the real world before you will feel convinced they are worth all the hot air!

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

February is much softer and less easy to define then January; don’t agonise too much about this. Allow yourself to be a bit befuddled and try to reduce the level of chatter in your brain. Meditate. Only then will you begin to notice anything that is at all meaningful. If you do, hang onto it because it can easily get lost in the general babble of life and social media.

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

Foundations may feel rocked in the early part of February but by the full moon on 6th, you may have found a way through some of the difficulties. The solution may have come as a surprise to you but go with it anyway. There are always more possible options than we notice when we feel trapped so take the path less travelled this month. Let it meander where it wants!

LEO

July 24 – August 23

You should examine the need for more give and take in your relationships on 8th, just after the full moon. You may wish to ponder on whether you are too demanding of others. Where does this actually come from; what insecurities lurk under that mask of confidence that you wear? If you have never considered this, now is a very good time to start!

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

Venus will be opposing your sign for most of this month which is not necessarily what your analytic mind seeks. It’s very likely a message to let go of a few things and you may get a hefty reminder of this on or just before 16th February when Neptune joins Venus to gang up on you together. Be careful about mislaid items, or money going out of your account.

Everyone is affected differently by these astronomical movements. 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.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

As Jupiter starts to get comfortable in Aries, your opposite sign, you may feel a bit overwhelmed by its influence. Painful emotions, maybe from your early years, may be brought to the surface through the influence of Chiron but Jupiter may be just exaggerating things, so try not to get things out of proportion. It’s just a passing effect.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

The moon goes over your sign around 12th February which may briefly stir up difficult and painful memories and feelings. These may be so ‘out of the blue’ that you might wonder where they come from. If this feels as if it is triggering something significant in you, this is probably useful stuff to work with in a psychotherapeutic way.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22

Actions taken are rather more determined by your emotional state this month than usual. The urge to just do something, anything, should be tempered by asking yourself if they really meet your longer term or more distant aims. So, taking a couple of steps back for some selfreflection of how you feel deep inside before you act is probably a good thing to do. Try yoga!

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

You are wise and cautious thinking because your credibility and authority are important to you. This makes you a bit serious so the intensity that comes with Mercury conjoining Pluto on 10th will make conversations more serious than usual. Don’t let yourself get fobbed off with casual explanations. It’s more important to delve deep into what’s going on under the surface

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