NN Pulse Magazine July 2022

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Issue 80 | July 2022

County-wide news, views and stories

The magazine at the heart of Northamptonshire

What’s going on in your local area

Heo

SUMMER Don’t miss your free 17 page guide to a host of summer events and activities inside this edition

Digging Deep Leaning to live without slug pellets and with the snails and slugs in your garden

Travelling back in time On the Northampton and Lamport Railway

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CONTENTS

From the

Editor

July 2022

Kerry Lewis-Stevenson

A

long with a massive music menu and plenty of performances our ‘Hello Summer’ feature will tell you about lots of free or affordable activities locally. More about that in a moment.

First I want to recognise the teams that raised more than £50,000 for charities which help people improve their mental health and cope with prostate cancer. Each drove a vehicle worth less than £500 over 2,500 miles through nine countries – what a great effort for important causes.

34

Now back to 15 pages of Summer Fun. Football fans won’t want to miss the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 at Stadium MK this month.

You can explore 750 acres at Stanwick Lakes and the Parks Trust is encouraging you to discover Milton Keynes’ greenspaces. Youngsters can learn about plants, ponds, birds and insects at Howe Park Wood.

Don’t forget the remaining summer Moo events in aid of Willen Hospice and remember to buy your Summer Draw tickets – there’s a £2,000 first prize. You can also support Cancer Research UK at Northampton’s Race for Life and Pretty Muddy events or the Northamptonshire Health Charity at the Northampton Half Marathon.

The MK Playday is back and there are also Parkland Play and Summer of Play events. You can go on a nostalgic train ride to help the Marston Vale Line celebrate its 175th anniversary and discover more about the Northampton and Lamport Railway with Laura Malpas. Historic Delapré Abbey, grounds and the Walled Garden will be home to all sorts of events and there will be plenty to see at all our local museums and galleries.

For arts lovers there are theatrical treats from Aladdin to Peter Rabbit and summer song writing sessions at The Stables. For a spectacular weekend of entertainment next month try the first New Bury Summer Festival.

Here comes summer!

Kerry

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.

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

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NEWS

12

LEGAL

14

ANDREW LEWER

15

HELLO SUMMER!

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HISTORY

38

CHARITY

42

FASHION

44

HEALTHCARE

46

FOOD & DRINK

48

HOME & GARDEN

50

INTERIORS

51

ARTS

52

MUSIC

54

WHAT’S ON

56

THEATRE

57

PUZZLES

58

YOUR STARS

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5

LOCAL NEWS

‘It’s emotional’: Blogger urges runners to join Race for Life as she vows to raise funds for research

C

hanelle Bradshaw has taken part in the town’s Cancer Research UK Race for Life every year since mum Mandy was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011.

Mandy thought she had overcome the disease, but last year it returned, this time incurable and having spread, with multiple tumours on her spine, pelvis and hips.

Chanelle, 33, is now on a mission to make Race for Life the biggest yet in Northampton and will be taking part in both Pretty Muddy, a mud-splattered obstacle course on July 23 and the more traditional 5k event the following day.

Mandy, 57, who works for West Northamptonshire Council, had six rounds of chemotherapy, radiotherapy plus a right mastectomy and reconstruction the first time she had cancer. She is now having chemotherapy and hormone therapy.

“Mum was really worried about having treatment this time round, due to the side effects from before,

A blogger is calling on people to join her at Race for Life after her mother was diagnosed with incurable cancer.

Chanelle Bradshw (right) with her mum Mandy

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but then she spoke to someone who told her about how treatment has changed so much in the space of ten years,” says Chanelle “You obviously need funds to be able to do that so this is a big part of why I do Race for Life.

“It’s very emotional when you’re there. It’s at the beginning when everyone’s warming up, they play people’s stories and you see

everyone’s back signs with who they’re doing it for - it’s just a feeling that everyone’s there together, for a reason and there’s not really any other events you get that feeling.”

Michael Jarvis, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for Northampton, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Chanelle and Mandy for their support. Sadly, cancer affects all of us in some

way. Whether people are living with cancer, taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with cancer, or signing up to protect their own children’s future, everyone has a reason to Race for Life.”

Race for Life raises funds for world-class research to help beat 200 types of cancer including bowel cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, testicular cancer, brain cancer, children’s cancers and leukaemia.

“Our Race for Life events are open to all,” says Michael. “For some people the Race for Life is literally a walk in the park. Slow and steady still wins. For others it’s a jog. Others may opt to push themselves harder, taking up the challenge of the 10km distance and even pushing for a new personal best time.

Entries are open for the events at Abington Park, also including Pretty Muddy Kids, for boys and girls aged five to 12, on the Saturday as well as 3k and 10k distances on the Sunday. >> To enter, visit raceforlife.org

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For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

7

LOCAL NEWS

L

ast month’s event featured a total 61 acts performing at eight locations throughout the town centre, genres from rock to opera, world music to jazz.

Festival director Graham Roberts has been in the music industry for more than 35 years as both a performer and teacher. For the past five years he has been director of Northampton Music Festival.

“I am passionate that new artists should be supported and given professional practice through the experience of taking part in a festival, together with the challenge of playing to a large audience, possibly for the first time,” he says. “Feedback from previous festivals show that this free entry festival is of great benefit to both artists and the general public who may not otherwise be in a position to afford to attend a large live music event.

“The increased footfall has also benefited the town centre, the whole purpose of the festival.”

Kerrie Cosh presents BBC Music Introducing in Northampton, which was created to support unsigned, undiscovered and under the radar musicians. She worked with the festival to curate part of the line-up of the main stage on the Market Square and is thrilled at the range of talent that was on show. “Northampton is a melting pot of diverse and multi-talented artists and we’re always discovering new musicians we’re desperate to share with music lovers.”

Northampton-based band Sarpa Salpa, who headlined the event, is a band that has been championed by BBC Introducing.

Festival strikes a chord with fans and musicians Supporting new music and up and coming artists is at the heart of Northampton Music Festival.

Crowds gathered to watch the free music fesival on Northampton’s Market Square

“Having grown up in Northampton, I always used to look out for all the events we could try and get a slot for and festivals were always top of the list,” says frontman Marcus Marooth. “There are some fantastic festivals in Northampton that we’ve been lucky enough to play at and to have been invited to headline NMF22 was really great.”

The Student Showcase Stage in Element Courtyard on George’s Row featured performances from students at

WE CAN be creative & build the future

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“For both Northampton College and the university students, the chance to collaborate and represent the growing talent in our town is essential. Supporting the music community, events and profession in Northampton is at the heart of what we do.” said Sarah Thursby, curriculum manager for music and performing arts at Northampton College.

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July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

9

CAROLINE CHISHOLM

‘We make learning enjoyable from the start’

A

t Caroline Chisholm School we are an academically successful all-through (ages 4-19) school that strives to develop young people into ambitious, highly successful, happy and resilient young adults. We make learning enjoyable from the start in our Outstanding EYFS right up to our Sixth Form.

As a High Performance Learning (HPL) World Class School we provide a broad and balanced curriculum, a sense of community, coupled with a very supportive mentoring and pastoral system that values the strengths and talents of the individual student.

We are so proud to share an insight into a recent successful Duke of Edinburgh camping trip. As part of our ethos, we view outdoor learning as a valuable resource for our students to help build their confidence and resilience. It gives them the opportunity to use their skills learnt within the classroom and apply them in a different context. By having to navigate as a team as well as themselves, they have to apply content taught in geography, maths and more, while working together to ensure they achieve their end goal.

The trip was a three-day expedition with 32 of our Year 9 and 10 students split into five groups. On Friday, the students

10

began with a practice run doing a 2.5 hour hike setting off from school grounds and a loop to Hackleton and back. The official expedition took place on Saturday and Sunday where each group had to pick an aim for the trip, for example, looking out for animals, different types of flowers and leaves. They then had to walk six hours and camp overnight. All students were responsible for carrying their own tents, food and clothing. After arriving at camp around 5pm they set up for the evening, pitched their tents, cooked their food, and then had free time to play sports and participate in group games. In the morning, they set off at

8am for another six hours of walking as they were navigating from Grendon on a loop around through Wollaston, Bozeat and back to Grendon. All students passed, received their certificate and badge and did incredibly well!

Throughout the expedition the students were challenged at multiple levels and persevered throughout. They practiced their navigation and compass skills and worked incredibly hard to overcome any setbacks. Their certification and experience will be a valuable asset to help guide them in their everyday lives and prepare them for their future endeavours.

We are very proud of our students!

To learn more about Caroline Chisholm School, please call or visit our website.

T: 01604 344744 W: www.ccs.northants.sch.uk

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

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For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

11

LEGAL

Summer holidays for separated parents

W

Things to consider before booking

ith summer holiday bookings expected to almost reach pre-pandemic levels this year, there is no doubt that many of us are looking forward to a 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.

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, we recommend:

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.

1.

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.

3.

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

2.

4.

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

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

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.

Seek legal assistance in good time should you encounter any problems.

Jess Leech Solicitor

If you encounter or anticipate any problems when looking to travel abroad, the family team here at Wilson Browne Solicitors can help. Contact us today for a free consultation on 0800 088 6004.

12

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

LOCAL NEWS

Northamptonshire mental health charity joins Rust Bucket Rally to raise vital funds A four-day road trip across Europe has raised more than £50,000 to be split between two charities, including We Mind and Kelly Matters who specialise in helping people with mental health issues and Leicestershire charity, Prostaid who help prostate cancer sufferers.

Team ‘Peaky Blinders’ raised more than £50,000 for two charities We Mind and Kelly Matters

I

n total 42 teams took part in the rally where they had to drive a vehicle worth no more than £500, travelling 2,500 miles through nine countries, including overnight stops in Pfullendorf, Venice and Stuttgart.

We Mind and Kelly Matters was founded in 2019 after the devastating loss of Kelly Hewitt who in December 2018 at just 24 years of age and after a short battle with anxiety and depression, took her own life. Kelly’s Dad, Mum and Sister decided to set up the charity to raise vital funds for mental health and bereavement charities, so that anyone affected by suicide would receive help and support.

Representing the charity at the rally was Co-Founder and Kelly’s Mum, Rachael Hewitt, Co-Founder and Kelly’s sister, Amy Hewitt as well as family friends, Kerry York and Amy

Green who affectionately named their team, the ‘Pinky Blinders’.

Racheal said: “It was a fantastic experience travelling through Europe and I would like to thank the Rust Bucket Rally Team for organising the trip and raising funds and awareness of our charity. We would like to thank Finch Signs in Raunds who did an amazing job wrapping our car.”

The Rust Bucket Rally returned this year after a a two-year absence due to the Covid-19 restrictions. Amy said: “It was an incredible

four-day road trip. The team at the Rust Bucket Rally have helped raise so much money for both charities which has been fantastic. The money will be crucial in helping people receive the right care and treatment they desperately need.”

A JustGiving page is still active, and there is still time to donate by visiting: www.justgiving. com/fundraising/wemindkellymattersrbr >> For further information visit www.wemindandkellymatters.org.uk

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

13

ANDREW LEWER MP

Happy and Glorious!

A weekend of celebrations to mark HM the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

On parade - part of Northamptonshire Jubilee Pageant take the salute

T

he gloom of a return to the political situation was rendered all the more stark by the bright glory of the preceding Jubilee celebrations.

Britain at its best and Northampton too!

The events I attended varied considerably in type but were united by happiness and patriotism.

Although the Saints match I attended in the middle of Saturday was not directly a Jubilee event, it featured red, white and blue fireworks, and indeed spectacular rugby fireworks on the pitch! What a match and what a wholesome and positive atmosphere to go with it.

The informal was exemplified by Weston Favell’s Jubilee Celebrations.

Street stalls, royal themed quizzes, scrapbooks and floral displays in St Peter’s and fun activities on the Patch too. Both the Mayor Cllr Dennis Meredith and I attended at about the same time. The arrival of the rain was purely coincidental!

An enjoyable afternoon was spent on Saturday watching the Saints win Andrew Lewer MP with Parliamentary colleagues Dame Andrea Leadsom MP, Rt Hon Michael Ellis MP and Tom Pursglove MP

Andrew and Debbie Cadd, Manager of the Billing Road Conservative Club, at the Club’s Jubilee Party

The Billing Road Conservative Club Jubilee Party was an equally relaxed affair. It featured a memorable rock band rendition of the National Anthem (shades of Jimi Hendrix’s Star Spangled Banner, but thankfully the lead player did not then squirt petrol over his guitar and set fire to it, which may have spoiled the Jubilee mood somewhat). I was honoured to be asked to give a short speech about Her Majesty and to propose the Loyal Toast.

Far more formal, but rightly and fittingly so, was the Northamptonshire Jubilee Pageant in the Market Square, hosted by the Lord Lieutenant James Saunders Watson. This was attended by too many dignitaries from across the county to mention them all, but included my Parliamentary colleagues Dame Andrea Leadsom MP, Rt Hon Michael Ellis MP and Tom Pursglove MP. The parade of military and civic groups, the large and supportive public attendance and, best of all, the pride and pleasure taken in the Pageant by the young people participating was tremendous. It made for an ideal way for all of us to thank the Queen for her incredible and long life of service to us all. We wish her further years to reign over us... and to enjoy her marmalade sandwiches.

Andrew Lewer MP for Northampton South

Rain didn’t stop the Jubilee celebrations at Weston Favell village

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CONTACT DETAILS: Tel: 01604 978080 Email: andrew.lewer.mp@parliament.uk www.andrewlewer.com CONSTITUENCY OFFICE : 42 Billing Road, Northampton NN1 5DE

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

SUMMER

It’s time to leave the sofa and get outside this summer, and there is something for everyone to enjoy in the locality, as our bumper guide proves...

SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS

NATURE 18

HISTORY 25

THEATRE 22

CHARITY EVENTS 21

FESTIVAL 31

Hello

SUMMER

T

he sun is (hopefully) shining, the summer holidays are coming and our thoughts turn to taking a break. But you don’t need to deal with airport queues or worry about booking expensive apartments.

We are all feeling the pinch just now, but you can still have a good time.

There are so many free or affordable great things to do on your doorstep and in the neighbouring counties.

Whether you want to take in a theatre performance, go hunting for bugs, show your competitive side, enjoy an exhibition or let the train take the strain, Pulse has heaps of smart ideas for family fun no matter what the weather!

Say HELLO to all the great things to do in and around the region this summer...

SPORT NATURE CHARITY THEATRE MUSIC PLAY DAYS OUT BOOKS HISTORY EXHIBITIONS ART ACTIVITIES FOOD FESTIVAL DRINK

Hello

SPORT

16 18 21 22 22 23 23 24 25 28 29 30 31 31 32

Watch the girls get the goals!

M

THE UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 comes to MK

ilton Keynes is playing its part in the biggest women’s European sports event in history when it hosts four matches as part of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022.

Stadium MK, which is of course home to the MK Dons, is one of nine host cities which have been hand-picked, and one of those matches playing out in the new city will be the semi-final.

The fixtures will run as follows: Spain vs Finland – July 8 Denmark vs Finland – July 12 Finland vs Germany – July 16 Semi-final (TBC vs TBC) – July 27

Pic: Flickr

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> To make bookings visit uefa.com/womenseuro/ticketing/

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Visit Stanwick Lakes

We have lots to offer with a fantastic café, shop, large children’s play area, Heritage displays, an assault course, an adventure trail, walks, cycle paths and lots more.

There is a varied and exciting public programme of events happening throughout the year so look at our website for more information.

www.stanwicklakes.org.uk

01933 625522

OUR new Brewers Fayre THE

WILLEN DRAGON th 4 OpenS July!!

We can’t wait to welcome you into our new pub.

Come join us for great value food and drinks the whole family can enjoy. PLUS

BOOK NOW

JOIN US AT OUR

FAMILY FUN DAY Sunday 10th July 12-4pm Plenty of fun for everyone including:

Kids Entertainment Live Music Kids Activities Great Food and Drinks And a special appearance from

The Great Ormond Street Bear!

Visit us at Brickhill Street, Willen Lake, Milton Keynes MK15 0DS or book now at www.brewersfayre.co.uk For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

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Hello

NATURE I

f you fancy getting out and about in the country, Stanwick Lakes near Wellingborough is a no-brainer; a 750 acre attraction and nature reserve in the heart of the Nene Valley.

Its extensive space is ripe for exploration and suitable for families, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers.

Get busy with the adventure trail and playground, reach for the binoculars and enjoy a spot of bird watching or stretch your legs and fill your lungs with countryside air on a lakeside walk.

A summer programme of events tailored for children will allow them to start enjoying nature in an engaging, educational and fun way: “Discover the underwater world at a pond dipping session, hunt for mini beasts in the undergrowth and build a magnificent den in our newly opened woodland,” is the call from the reserve.

The visitor centre has been spruced up too, and now includes a fresh, modern cafe and gift shop, and a range of function rooms and spaces that will present a rolling programme of heritage and art exhibitions.

Stanwick Lakes is the perfect spot for those looking to get away from it all, but still be home in time for tea!

The perfect ‘getaway’ on your doorstep

> Check stanwicklakes.org.uk for event details.

There is so much to do and discover at Stanwick Lakes

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Stanwick Lakes is rich in wildlife including bats, otters, stoats, rabbits, foxes and badgers.

The meadows are home to shrews, voles, field and wood mice and Muntjac deer are a familiar sight.

The lakes and reedbeds are protected and internationally important for nesting birds, harvest mice and many species of moth.

Thousands of visitors every year come to see the birdlife, and there is lots; from Common Terns and Great Crested Grebe to Tufted Ducks and Wigeons.

Aside from its wintering species, its green spaces and wetland areas are also home to Barn Owls and Tawny Owls and ducks, and the bramble and hedgerows often ‘chatter’ with some of our prettiest garden birds including Chaffinch, Goldfinch and Robin, and the less common Goldcrest, Long-tailed Tit and Bullfinch.

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

A

nything that gives youngsters a break from their technology and encourages them to enjoy the flora and fauna around them is a great thing.

And one of the best ways to foster a love of the great outdoors and an appreciation of nature is to engage with some of the many events hosted in the green spaces of Milton Keynes by The Parks Trust.

Throughout July and August they will be hosting a number of opportunities for little people to boost their learning.

Love Nature Day (July 2) will explore different ways children can help nature at home, and they’ll be able to meet volunteers with a passion for moths, swifts and bats.

Bug hunting and pond dipping experiences will also be hosted at the event at Howe Park Wood, which is home to more than 30 different species of butterfly and more than 200 plant species.

Professional storyteller Terrie Howie has a passion for telling tales outside; Summer Stories in the Park will be sharing immersive local folk stories when she visits Great Linford Manor Park (July 25).

Flora, fauna and fun with The Parks Trust

Discover local flora and fauna with your ‘wild ones’

Pic: The Parks Trust

Pic: The Parks Trust

The stories will be told at the newly restored Doric Seat, an 18th century summer house folly that was once a feature in the Manor’s landscape garden – instant atmospherics!

There are sessions at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm and the family friendly event is perfect for those with children aged between five and 12 years.

A Discover Nature Session at Howe Park Wood (July 27) extends a welcome to eight to 11-year-olds, with five hours of foraging, hunting mini-beasts, habitat surveys and bird identification from 10am.

A similar session for those aged 12 to 15 years old will run on August 10 at the same scenic site, and will also feature pond identification, and the unique adaptations of our feathered friends.

If participants would like to, there will also be the chance to dissect some owl pellets.

It’s up to twit-t-you!

Story time with Terrie Howie

> For more details and booking information for these events, visit theparkstrust.com For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

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1st prize £2,000!

2 nd prize £ 500 10 Runne r up prize s of £50 ea ch

Closing date for entries: 5th August 2022 Draw takes place: 11th August 2022 Chances of winning. 24,112 tickets were entered into our last Summer Draw (August 2021) with the option of winning 12 prizes.

Only those aged 18 or over are eligible to enter or play. Winners will be notified by post within 7 days of the draw date. Promoter: Willen Hospice Ventures Ltd, Milton Road, Willen Village, Milton Keynes, MK15 9AB. Responsible Persons: L O’Gorman and M Rawlins. All net proceeds donated by deed of covenant to Willen Hospice (registered charity number 270194). Registered with the Gambling Commission (www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk) under the Gambling Act 2005, account number 4988. For full terms and conditions visit our website.

Registered charity number 270194

Gambling Commission Acc No. 4988

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Enjoy best-in-class hospitality as well go-karting, quad biking, clay shooting, archery and more. A great day out with friends, family, or work colleagues. Open 7 days a week.

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July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Hello

CHARITY W It could be moo! illen Hospice in Milton Keynes is hosting its summer fundraising spectacular - the Midnight Moo, a chance to limber up, get the blood pumping and have some fun with friends and family while swelling the coffers for the city’s celebrated care provider.

You are too late to take part in the Midday Moo, but there are still two opportunities to pull on the sneakers and go pound the streets.

The original Midnight Moo is booked for July 15, and participants will depart from the starting point of Midsummer Place for a five or 10 mile walk.

This 13th annual event will see you boogie your way around the route, should you choose to. You might say it’s a chance to show off your mooves...

The event is open to individuals and teams and, dare we say, the atmosphere will be udderly fantastic!

On August 7, the Mini-Moo is back. This family-friendly event has been moved to the summer holidays in 2022, and kids can choose to walk, run or scoot around Willen Lake North.

Or they could choose to complete their own mini-triathlon by tackling all three events!

The run is at 10.30am (ages 4-11), the scoot is at 11.30am (ages 3-11) and the walk starts at 12.30pm (aged 3-11).

It’s a great way to be part of something special, and after expending all that energy, little folks will sleep well! > To sign up and help to make a difference visit willen-hospice.org.uk

There are lots of fundraising events you can take part in to support Willen Hospice over the summer

A muddy great time for all!

Race for Life Pretty Muddy Kids is coming to Northampton on Saturday, July 23.

The muddy obstacle course – one of the events swelling the coffers for Cancer Research UK - is being held at Abington Park in the town, and costs £10 per child. Kids need to be at least 1.2m tall to compete, and they will tackle various obstacles, crawl through the mud pit and have lots of fun, while raising those valuable funds. Supervising adults go free.

And you grown-ups can have fun too – by taking part in the 5k muddy obstacle course.

A day later, Abington Park will welcome this year’s participants in the 3K, 5K or 10K Race For Life. > It’s not too late to enter, and all you need to know can be accessed at raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

21

Hello

THEATRE R are Productions return to the stage of Stantonbury Theatre this July, with their summer delivery, Aladdin.

When street rat Aladdin frees a genie from a lamp, he finds his wishes granted. But he quickly realises that evil has other plans for the lamp, and for Princess Jasmine too.

Can Aladdin save the Princess and his love for her after she realises that he isn’t quite what he appears to be?

A family favourite with plenty of show tunes, Aladdin is also a chance to show your appreciation of our rising talents – with local youngsters aged from eight to 21 years old making up the cast.

Performances run between July 7 and July 9. > For times, prices and to make bookings click to stantonburytheatre.co.uk or call 01908 324466.

David Walliams’ best-selling story Billionaire Boy has been given the stage treatment by the award-winning producers behind Gangsta Granny and Horrible Histories, and will be cheering audiences at Milton Keynes Theatre between June 30 and July 3.

Spud is 12 years old and he’s the richest boy in the country. He has his own sports car, two pet crocodiles and £100,000 a week pocket money. But he doesn’t have any pals... > Visit atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes to book.

Granting wishes in theatre-land The Handlebards

Pic: Mark Douet

Open Stage will be back at Northampton’s Derngate Theatre on Sunday, July 17 with their entire performing arts school of children and adults delivering their own re-imagined works of well-known stories retold through some decidedly special footwork.

This performance, cunningly called Reimagination, will involve a combination of ballet, tap, modern, classical Greek, jazz, acrobatic arts and musical theatre. > Want to watch? Tickets are on sale at royalandderngate.co.uk The Handlebards travel light for their bicyclepowered shows, and they are set to bring a laughout-loud production of The Bard’s Twelfth Night to Lyveden, as part of Oundle International Festival, on July 14.

Or why not hop along to Lyveden on August 20 for Quantum Theatre with The Tales of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny? > Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/lyveden for bookings, and with the performances being hosted in the beautiful green surroundings, you’ll need to take a blanket or a seat, and don’t forget to pack a picnic.

Songwriting sessions at the Stables

Hello

MUSIC

A different sort of chorus line!

T

he Stables is tuning up to nurture musical minds this summer with songwriting sessions ready to unlock the potential of youngsters.

Participants at one of the events will join with like minded music lovers to write and record a song in a day.

The collaborative session will use games and music play to learn how a song can start, how to contribute ideas and work to record a brand new track that will be performed and recorded before the end of the day.

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Ages 10-11 are invited to the workshop on July 27, with those aged 12-14 attending the following day. The sessions will run 10am-3pm.

Organisers will hit the right note with an opportunity to work on those aforementioned songwriting skills on July 29. How do you start a song? How should you structure it? Are there rules, and if so, can they be broken? This is an opportunity to find out.

Suitable for those aged 15-17 years old, it works for newcomers to the songwriting process, and for those who have already started on their journey.

Finally, a three-day Summer Songwriting Workout (August 1-3) will offer a chance to explore and learn in a practical way what to do to get song ideas into shape, dealing with melody, harmony, chord progression, hooks, analysing songs and learning from different styles.

If participants can sing, or play an instrument too, then so much the better. While the workout isn’t geared towards recording or production, there will be an insight into Digital Audio Workstations as part of the journey.

This workshop is for ages 17-19. > For details call 01908 280800 or visit stables.org

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Hello

PLAY TIME

A

ll too familiar circumstances led to a two year absence of the MK Playday, but the mammoth free event will return to Campbell Park on August 3.

There will be accessible activities for all children, young people and their families during this day which celebrates children’s right to play, and highlights the importance of play in little lives.

There will also be Parkland Play events in Oxley Park (August 23) and at Caldecotte Brook (August 30) with litter games, giant garden games and lots of sporting sessions; go batty for cricket, have fun with football or love tennis.

Younger participants will enjoy the play house, colouring-in station and soft outdoor toys. > Head to theparkstrust.com for more details.

Milton Keynes Council is following last year’s Summer of Play success by hosting the event again in 2022, with a wide range of sports, crafts, cookery and music and activities for toddlers to teens.

The Summer of Play will run between August 1 and August 25, and all of the events – which will soon feature online at milton-keynes.gov.uk/HAF – are free to attend.

In a further boost for struggling families, the events will also include free meals for youngsters.

On the right track

T

Hello

he Marston Vale Line is celebrating its 175th anniversary in 2022, and hopping on the Bedford to Bletchley Line is a great way to explore the countryside, on one of the refurbished London Underground District Line trains.

The trains run hourly Monday through to Saturday and offer plenty of options for some delightful days out.

Children will love the adventure of a train The Marston Vale Line covers Bletchley, journey, and if you collect your free symbol Fenny Stratford, Bow Brickhill, Woburn spot pack (available from Bletchley and MK Sands, Aspley Guise, Ridgmont, Lidlington, Central Stations with a valid ticket), they will be Millbrook, Stewartby, Kempston Hardwick, rewarded with a booklet comprising a map and Bedford St Johns and Bedford. sticker guides for families, with lots of facts, Enjoy surprising days out that are (nearly) on figures and things for children aged five and your doorstep! over to look out for during the journey.

Symbol Spot Discs are also located at each > Go online before you travel ‘on line’ at station including a whole set at Ridgmont marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk Station Heritage Centre. Take a rubbing of each disc and present the completed book at the Heritage Centre for a special prize.

Get up close to the pigs

DAYS OUT

Snout and about with the piggies

A

ward-winning micro pig business Kew Little Pigs has more than a decade of curly-tailed breeding, and offers visitors to its family run farm in Amersham a perfectly piggy time!

Ticket holders will join staff for a health and safety talk before enjoying a guided tour around the beautiful farm.

Of course you’ll be able to meet all of the animals on site, because piggies aren’t the only residents at Kew Little Pigs; they also have gorgeous goats, clucky chickens and some simply adorable ducklings.

Following the tour you will be given access to allocated petting pens where you can spend up to two hours with pigs of all ages – the piglets, their piggy parents and other mature pigs.

You’ll be able to groom the friendly creatures and their individual personalities will shine through as you watch and play with them in their natural environment.

After your oink-tastic experience, refuel with a snack in the onsite cafe and perhaps purchase a memento of your visit – from clothing to toys and kitchenware!

at Kew Little Pigs

The centre is also offering School Holiday Activity Camps for youngsters who will get to spend a day at the farm learning what it takes to be a pig keeper, getting stuck in with farm tasks. Hands will get mucky though!

Piggy playtime, a free piggy pack (containing soft toy, poster, floating pen, certificate and fact sheet) and ice-cream are included in the cost. Spaces are limited, so if you are interested visit kewlittlepigs.com > Kew Little Pigs is offering Pulse readers 20% off a family ticket (two adults and two children) on visits during the summer.

Enter the code PULSE_SUM22 when booking. The offer is valid until 31.08.22 for the Piggy Pet & Play Experience only.

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

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Hello

BOOKS W

e said there is no need to go whizzing off to faraway climes, but whether you are looking for a new page-turner for your time on the beach, or just want to curl up on the sofa at home with a new read for some quiet time, Waterstones in Milton Keynes has recommendations aplenty.

The bookstore also has some special events coming up, starting with leading real-life Criminologist David Wilson, who visits the store on Thursday, July 14 from 6pm.

Wilson is Professor Emeritus of Criminology and the founding director of the Centre for Applied Criminology at Birmingham City University.

His incredible career has brought him into contact with nearly every recent serial killer in the country, and he will be sharing those experiences.

He will also concentrate on the case at the heart of his brand new book, A Plot To Kill which explores the shocking story of two victims who had been groomed, seduced and mentally tortured by a man in the community who used his position to target and exploit the elderly.

Tess Gerritsen visits Waterstones on July 23

Start a new chapter this summer Very little shocks David, but this case in the sleepy village of Maids Moreton, astounded him.

The book will be available to purchase at what is certain to be a fascinating event.

Something completely different follows a week later (July 21, from 6pm) with a Manga Extravaganza!

Whether you are new to the genre or a longterm fan, there will be plenty for you.

Visit the store and browse the many series they have to offer. Check out the games, figurines and products based on popular characters and then give your brain a manga workout with a themed quiz.

Wear your best cosplay outfit if you want to – someone is going to win a prize on the day.

And on Saturday, July 23, best-selling author Tess Gerritsen will be visiting to sign copies of her new Rizzoli & Isles thriller, Listen To Me.

Tess is also a physician and she brings firsthand knowledge of emergency and autopsy rooms to her work. This is the 13th book in the addictive series and her appearance is a chance for fans to get her squiggle on their copy of the book.

On August 4, Bethany Clift will be in conversation talking about her second book, Love & Other Human Errors, an original novel about the chaos of love in all its forms. So something that we can all identify with!

“We spend a huge amount of our lives looking for love, if we are lucky enough to find love it sets our world on fire and when we lose love it can literally break our hearts. Everything that I have ever written is about love and everything that I will ever write will have love in it. I wouldn’t want to live without it. Love really does make my world go round,” she told Pulse.

at its core – making use of their brilliant imaginations, of course!

This year’s event – on Saturday, July 2 - includes sessions with authors Lauren Child (Clarence Bean: Scram) and Chris Smith (Frankie Best Hates Quests), a ‘Book Club for Super-Spies.’

Local authors will get a look in too – with half a dozen ready to spark creativity in youngsters.

The Pollinator Parade looks like it will ‘bee’ brilliant; it’s a celebration of our buzzy pals, with fun facts, a giant bee-hive, and the aforementioned parade followed by educational craft workshops.

Kids can even make their own pom-pom bees, while learning about the importance of the insects.

Or, how about spending some time with Professor Frost and his fantastical fleas.

This is the biggest little show you’ll ever see, and if you miss the mini menagerie in play you’ll be hopping mad!

Elsewhere, cast members from the enchanting new musical Hexwood School of Sorcery will perform songs, and you can meet the cast post-performance.

Other things to get stuck into include live art and sand art, a nature quest and a free Gangsta Granny workshop, and Festive Road will bring their larger than life dragon Gwynhaff to the show.

> To purchase tickets for events, or for more details visit waterstones.com/events

B

edford Bookfest is a children’s festival with a stellar line-up all ‘booked’ for July 9 & 10.

Some of the biggest names in young fiction will be visiting the town to read excerpts from their page-turners.

Book lovers of all ages will be able to enjoy Q&A sessions, creative writing workshops and sing-a-long sessions (yes, really!) with authors and illustrators.

On Saturday, Jamie Littler (author of the bestselling series Frostheart), Sophie Deen (responsible for the Agent Asha series) and author and illustrator Laura Ellen Anderson will be in attendance.

Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet – the duo responsible for the picture book series Supertato – visit on Sunday to give a peek into their new series – I Spy Island.

Punk Rocker Doodle creator Laura Dockrill will pop in, and a Poetry Clinic will close the event. > The event is being hosted at The Place Theatre. Secure tickets by visiting booktastic.org.uk In Aylesbury, the family-friendly literary and arts festival WhizzFizzFest will take over the town centre.

Originally inspired by Roald Dahl, the event has evolved and turned into a celebration of creative arts with children’s literature

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For the full programme and to see what’s happening where, head to whizzfizzfest.org.uk

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Hello

HISTORY Visit the home of The Codebreakers this summer B letchley Park is a great place to visit during the summer: for adults and children alike!

This local museum and heritage attraction provides much to see and do as you learn about the amazing people who were at Bletchley Park during World War Two, and how their remarkable work impacts us today.

This summer, for the first time in Bletchley Park’s history, visitors can explore Block A, a newly restored wartime building at the heart of the historic World War Two codebreaking site.

This Block houses the new permanent exhibition, The Intelligence Factory, telling the story of Bletchley Park at the peak of its operation. Visitors will learn more about Bletchley Park’s crucial work from 1942 to 1945, as its multi-skilled workforce rapidly increased to meet operational demands.

The site expanded hugely to become the world’s largest intelligence factory with a workforce of nearly 9,000, 75% of whom were women.

The exhibition thrusts visitors into the action at the peak of the Bletchley Park operation and shines a spotlight on the personal stories of those who worked to keep the organisation running. From tracking positions of Allied and enemy vessels, to handling millions of items of data, to recruiting, feeding, and housing thousands of staff, the scale and complexity of Bletchley Park at its peak as surprising as it is remarkable.

Hands-on interactive displays allow visitors to try their hand at real intelligence-management techniques used at Bletchley Park, and experience some of the daily challenges faced by managers in keeping the operation afloat under wartime conditions. There’s an interactive recreation of the Naval Plotting Room used by naval intelligence officers to track the movements of ships.

A close-up look at wartime machinery, explains more about the processes used to manage the enormous amount of data generated.

Throughout the school summer holidays families will be able to enjoy free drop-in workshops to learn more about codebreaking, free children’s multimedia guides (with stories and puzzles) and a brand-new Top-Secret Mission Pack (available for £1), as well as an outdoor playground and lots of wide-open space for children to run around. With so many different areas to explore, go on an adventure and uncover some surprising stories!

Children under 12 are admitted free and residents living with a 10-mile radius of Bletchley Park can enjoy 50% off standard admission prices all year round! Your ticket also is an annual pass so you can visit Bletchley Park again and again.

With all this and more, you will surely have an astounding time at Bletchley Park this summer. > Please visit bletchleypark.org.uk for further information and to book your tickets

Now open

Bletchley Park’s largest ever exhibition 9,000 people, working around the clock, producing intelligence on an industrial scale, secretly helping to turn the tide of World War Two. Discover their story.

Book tickets at bletchleypark.org.uk

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

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Hello

HISTORY T ake a visit to Delapré Abbey and experience 900 years of exciting and turbulent history in the heart of Northamptonshire, and there is plenty to captivate curious young minds this summer.

Outdoor activities in the Walled Garden will run between July 28 and September 1 and include a medieval themed Knight Trail and battle archaeology.

And every Thursday, history will come to life as you meet figures from the Abbey’s past inside the house.

You can play, explore and touch the items in the historic rooms – try on a helmet, fire a bow and arrow and create a crest. Under 18s go free.

The Abbey aside, there are 500 acres of parkland to explore and unwind in.

Delapré is open every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 11am to 4pm.

Dates of interest include a new adaptation of Wind in the Willows which will air in the Walled Garden (performances Friday, July 8-Sunday, July 10 at 6pm), Funtopia

Step back in time (Saturday, August 13 & Sunday, August 14, 11am-5pm) with bouncy castles, an obstacle course, inflatable slide, bungee run and more, and Classics on the Lawn (Sunday, September 11, 11am-4pm) with more than 100 vintage, classic and specialist cars parked up in the grounds. > Visit delapreabbey.org for tickets and to learn more about their talks and tours.

Delapré Abbey has activities for youngsters this summer

Happy Birthday!

Join us to celebrate House to Haven's 1st Birthday We're delighted to invite you to House to Haven's 1st Birthday!

Browse gorgeous home decor and unique gifts whilst enjoying a glass of bubbles, birthday cake, discounts, a competition, a mini Makers Market and free face painting for the kids. We'd love to see you!

Show this invite to receive a free goody bag.*

Save the Date!

Sunday 24th July, 11am to 3pm House to Haven ,130 High Street Cranfield, Beds, MK43 0BS @housetohavendecor www.housetohaven.co.uk

*whilst stocks last, purchase required.

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July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

The Biggest Entertainment Festival in the South of England!

Milton Keynes Museum offers lots of hands-on involvement for children and outdoor fun on the playground (below left)

Get hands-on at the history hub

M

ilton Keynes Museum is open five days a week throughout summer, and the history hub really does have something for all ages – from toddlers to centenarians. Truly.

A gem of the new city, the Museum has so much to see that you’ll want to return again and again, and you’ll be able to; tickets allow unlimited re-entry for 12 months.

From sending morse code, to making and then enjoying hot buttered toast over the range in the traditional farmhouse kitchen, or dialling delight in the fun Connected Earth Gallery, there is much to take attention.

Step back in time with a walk through the street of shops, or enjoy a school lesson the way things used to be in the Victorian school room. Without the cane, though, obviously!

Young motoring enthusiasts will love the Hall of Transport, and before the television, parlour games were the entertainment choice - the Museum will offer you the chance to relive those days gone by.

And the Museum’s hands-on policy will let you show off your skills on the ever-popular pianola, which can make anyone sound like an ace on the keys!

When you feel a bit peckish, a quick visit to the Granary Cafe will do away with hunger pangs – the cafe stocks lots of affordable snacks and delicious home made cakes to tempt you.

You can spend all day, every day on site if you wish, or pop in for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake, or simply enjoy a sunny day making use of the splendid outside space. > See more of what’s on offer at miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

13-14 August 2022

New Bury Farm, Mill Road, Slapton, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 9BT

www.newburysummerfestival.co.uk info@newburysummerfestival.co.uk 03333 660757 or 07984 400393 Or find us on Social Media! @newburyparkevents For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

27

The force will be with you at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery

Hello

EXHIBITIONS A bington Park Museum is currently hosting the exhibition It’s A Bug’s Life which takes a peek into the lives of the minibeasts and creepy crawlies that inhabit our gardens, fields and green spaces and explores just why they are so important.

This is your opportunity to find out how beetles see and hear, how they defend themselves and how to make a beetle home in your garden.

You’ll also go home understanding the differences between a butterfly and a moth, and what mud-puddling is.

A range of children’s summer workshops are also planned. The Wonderful Wednesdays events include Viking purse making (July 27), a chance to explore the microscopic world with Look Closer (August 3), understanding how

The Tiger Who Came to Tea features in the Judith Kerr exhibition at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery

your garden grows (August 10), Fossil Fun (August 17) and Animal Magic (August 24).

Meanwhile, Fantastic Fridays will include a Tiger Activity Workshop (July 29), Flower Painting (August 12) and the chance to Get Tactile with Textiles (August 19).

At Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, a magnificent collection of vintage Star Wars toys and original posters spanning 1977 to 1984 are on display.

This must-see show for all Star Wars devotees features toys that have never been exhibited previously, and it is the biggest version of the exhibition ever opened to the public.

Entry is free, and the show continues until September 4.

While we’re on the subject of Star Wars, on August 16 the Museum is holding a Bricks 4 Kidz Lego Builders Workshop, where youngsters aged five to 12 years old will get to build motorised models from Lego Technic.

It’s a chance to bring some of their favourite characters to life, and other themed Lego activities will run simultaneously. May the creativity be with them!

Another exhibition starting at the Museum on July 9 (and also continuing until September 4) shines a light on the life and work of one of this country’s best loved author-illustrators, Judith Kerr.

Judith, who passed away in 2019, was responsible for the much-loved classic The Tiger Who Came to Tea. This show celebrates the 50th anniversary of that book, and will be an opportunity to view quality facsimiles of Judith’s illustrations from the Seven Stories archive.

It will be roar-some. How could it be anything else with a tiger at the heart of the matter? > For full details of all events and workshops running throughout the summer visit www.northamptonmuseums.com

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It’s a bug’s life at Abington Park Museum

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

A snapshot of the past

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ilton Keynes Gallery is currently hosting the exhibition, Vivian Maier: Anthology which explores the remarkable story of a mysterious Chicago based nanny who led a double life as one of the greatest street photographers of the 20th century.

Incredibly prolific, this is the first time that Vivian’s work has been exhibited in the UK. During her lifetime she amassed hundreds of thousands of images, but they were kept hidden in a storage locker where they stayed undiscovered until 2007.

The MK Gallery show features 140 black and white and colour images, together with film and audio. It is a fabulous look into the everyday life that was, and a true visual treat.

The show continues until September 25.

Pic: Vivian Maier, New York, September 3, 1954 Copyright Estate of Vivian Maier, Courtesy of Maloof Collection and Howard Greenberg Gallery, NY

Explore the photography of Vivian Maier at Milton Keynes Gallery

Vivian Maier, September 18, 1962 Copyright Estate of Vivian Maier, Courtesy of Maloof Collection and Howard Greenberg Gallery, NY

Hello

ART

I predict ArioT

M

ilton Keynes Gallery is a family friendly space, and one which offers fun activities throughout the summer holidays.

A live performance of the interactive musical Errol’s Garden (Sunday, July 10) will put catchy songs, humour and imagination at the fore.

School’s Out (Saturday, July 23) is ready to celebrate the end of term in true rebel style with an afternoon of live music, a customisation station, zine and badge-making and mini skate school.

There is plenty more to see school ages through the holidays; Those aged 11–15-years old can sign up and join the Monday sessions of Street Arts, and get involved in a range of activities from t-shirt printing to Parkour.

Pic: Janie Airey

All ages can enjoy art at Milton Keynes Gallery over the summer months

On Tuesdays, 14–18-year-olds can drop in to ARioT where they can experiment with different creative processes and materials in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Amplify, is a series of workshops for people aged 16–25-years-old with something to say. It lets them voice their concerns around current social and political issues, with workshops including spoken word, poetry, zine making and more.

Pic: Janie Airey

> For details of these events, of Toddle Tours and Child Tours for children with additional needs, and a look at the programme of films on offer in the Sky Room Cinema visit mkgallery.org For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

29

Hello

ACTIVITIES

Go karting to unleash the racing driver within

T

hink back to the last time you lined up alongside another car at the traffic lights. Did you feel the urge to get away from the lights before the other car?

Were you like a coiled spring, focused on the red light, anticipating the moment the lights turned green in the hope of leaving the other car to eat your dust? If the answer is yes, then read on to find out how you can unleash the racing driver within.

We’re a nation of motorsport fans and the UK is known for producing amazing racing drivers, Formula 1 race winners and world champions, like Sir Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and Damon Hill. But high costs and limited access means that going racing is sadly a dream for most of us, which deprives your ‘racing driver within’ from what it craves most, competition, and speed. Fear not, there is an answer.

Go-karting is the closest thing you can get to racing for real. In terms of the skills required and sensations experienced, there’s literally no difference. In karting, you sit inches from the floor in a machine built for one purpose, to race. After all, where do the great racing drivers start and learn their craft, in karting.

Up and down the UK you can find many indoor and outdoor go-kart circuits but there is one in Northamptonshire that stands out from the rest. A circuit that hosts British Championships and is often graced by visits from F1 drivers of the past, present and future. Whilton Mill Kart Circuit.

Located near Daventry, Whilton Mill Karting & Outdoor Activities boasts a 1200m outdoor circuit that is one of the fastest and most challenging in the UK. It has also has a 450m outdoor circuit, ideal for juniors, plus a 120-seater ‘best-in-class’ restaurant, with views of the circuit. What’s more, Whilton Mill too has a quad bike course, archery range, clay shooting ground and acres of outdoor event space for family fun days.

Prices start at just £10 Karting is at the heart of the Whilton Mill offering with prices starting at just £10 for a junior arrive & drive session on the 450m outdoor circuit. For those aged 14+, £49 will get you a 30-minute practice session on the 960m National Circuit in Whilton Mill’s 390cc, 50mph, go-karts.

With all that Whilton Mill Karting & Outdoor Activities has to offer, it’s a great destination to spend the whole day out with friends and family. Many visitors will book a quad bike session followed by karting then food. With karting, quad biking, clay shooting, and archery available, it’s easy to build an action packed and adrenaline fuelled day out.

Whilton Mill is also a popular choice for businesses wanting to reward employees or engage with customers. Group events, team building, and family fun days are available for 10 to 3000 guests. > For more information visit www.whiltonmill.co.uk, call 01327 843822 or email karting@whiltonmill.co.uk

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Hello

FOOD

Mouth-watering menus at The Willen Dragon

T

asty pub grub and tipples await at the new Brewers Fayre, The Willen Dragon, which opens its doors on Monday, July 4.

Situated right by Willen Lake the new hot spot promises great value menus with crowd-pleasing pub classics and a crafted selection of drinks to enjoy inside, or in the outside garden and bar – perfect for the summer.

The Willen Dragon is celebrating its opening by inviting you to the ultimate family fun day on Sunday, July 10 between midday and 4pm.

The afternoon will deliver live music, activities for the kids, and plenty of entertainment alongside a selection of summertime tipples.

And it will be an opportunity to meet The Great Ormond Street Bear who is popping along to meet you all on the day. It’s free to attend and everyone is welcome.

Great food and summer drinks await you at The Willen Dragon

Brewers Fayre pride themselves on delivering mouth-watering, all day dining menus at fantastic prices.

Whether you desire a beefed-up breakfast or a lunchtime pitstop, there is a dish for all the family.

Kickstart the day with an all-you-can-eat breakfast, while the all-day menu plays host to drool-worthy burgers, a selection of succulent grill dishes and homely comfort dishes.

There are also plenty of vegetarian and vegan options featuring on the pub’s menu.

The Sunday Carvery is the perfect place for a roast, with a range of succulent hard-carved meats to tempt you, with bottomless Yorkshire puddings, fluffy roasties and lashings of gravy to get your mouths salivating.

Hello

A

> Keep up-to-date with opening news and exclusive offers by visiting brewersfayre.co.uk and sign up to the Brewers Fayre newsletter or follow @brewersfayre on the socials.

New Bury Festival will offer a fun-packed weekend which will include a BMX daredevil stunt team and the impressive horsemanship of the Devil’s Horsemen

FESTIVAL

brand new event is making its debut this August, and the New Bury Summer Festival is promising a spectacular weekend of entertainment and displays that will thrill the whole family from its base on the outskirts of Leighton Buzzard.

Children will have a wonderful time with inflatables, a land train and fairground rides, and they will be able to learn a little of the beauty of animals over at the petting farm.

Alpacas and ducks will be around to meet and greet, too.

If they need to get rid of some of that extra energy, you might like to accompany the little ‘uns to the stunt bike course, while grown-ups will enjoy Laser Clays and archery or can take to the air while staying firmly rooted on the ground, with a simulator plane ride.

A chainsaw carver, glass blower and hedge layer will also be showing off their abilities, and wheelie great fun will come from the BMX daredevil stunt team.

Little mouths will be well catered for too, with a nutritious three-course kids menu, and at least two of their five a day in every main course.

The Willen Dragon brings together the welcoming atmosphere of the pub, with modern design details, a range of seating options and BT Sports on the big screen.

If you fancy dining al fresco, take a pew in one of the covered and heated areas and private beach-style huts, and let the youngsters loose to roam in the outside play area.

Ray Aliker’s falconry display will give you a bird’s eye view of the area, and the Devil’s Horsemen will be galloping in.

You’ll be able to check out lots of lovely bodywork over at the vehicle show ground, with classics and cruisers parked up for inspection, alongside retro machinery and steam engines.

It can be hungry work having so much fun, but there’s no need to pack a snack – the site will have plenty of artisan food stalls selling nibbles and bites. And don’t tell the designated driver, but those of a proper age who aren’t getting behind the wheel will be able to sup up – maybe a craft beer, a sweet cider or a cocktail?

Aside from the food stalls, an interactive Food Theatre will welcome some ace chefs

from around the UK, and there’s even going to be a cookery school for kids. It’s a decidedly tasty event!

Lots of shopping outlets will be vying for attention with small businesses from the surrounding areas on site.

Saturday will deliver on the live music front, with artists playing all day long and if you want to make a weekend of it, the camp site will be open. Pitch up and party!

The New Bury Summer Festival runs across August 13 & 14. > Get more details and book tickets at newburysummerfestival.co.uk

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

31

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33

LOCAL HISTORY

The N & L Railway resident steam engine, a Hawthorne Leslie 0-4-0 Swanscombe No 4 Steam Locomotive

Travelling back in time

On the Northampton and Lamport Railway

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y favourite heritage sites are those run by true enthusiasts who live and breathe their passion, and who want to share it with the public, writes Laura Malpas.

This month I hit the motherlode at the Northampton and Lamport Railway.

As I arrived at the station my nose caught a scent so reminiscent of my childhood daily train journey to school that my heart almost skipped a beat. I had only been there for a few minutes when I realised that I was grinning, and looking around I could see that 34

same grin reflected on the faces of visitors and volunteers alike. It’s official, I think that I have become a Railway Enthusiast!

I am not alone; the country is filled with a network of railway lovers.

There are more than 150 heritage railways in Britain, with 560 miles of track visiting 460 stations. There are so many ways to experience the joy of the tracks, and the engines that pass along them. For some visitors it is a first-time experience, for others it is a nostalgic revisiting of their past. And it’s so fun!

The railway network throughout Northamptonshire began in the 1830s and was quickly recognised as a key requirement for economic success in the new world of the Victorian Industrial Revolution. The population’s desire for speedy and safe travel plus the discovery of large deposits of iron ore in the county stimulated the desire for railways. By the middle of the 19th century, the London and North Western Railway network was becoming well established in the county with branch lines regularly being added. George R Stephenson,

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

LOCAL HISTORY

nephew of the great engineer George Stephenson, designed and built a new railway linking Northampton and Market Harborough, opening in 1959.

Originally it was a single track, but as soon as the benefits became clear, another line was added, offering an ‘up’ and a ‘down’ line. There were six stations between Northampton and Market Harborough, at Pitsford & Brampton, Spratton, Brixworth, Lamport, and Clipstone. The undulating countryside required the construction of two tunnels at Kelmarsh and Oxenden, both double bored.

Sadly, many things conspired against the long-term success of this railway.

Alternative cheaper sources of iron ore became available, and the development of the road network for both passengers and freight meant that a great many branch lines connecting predominantly rural areas fell into disuse. The future for the line was in doubt even before Richard Beeching wrote his reports on the future of railways in Britain in the mid 1960s. The days of the line were already numbered, first closing to passengers in January 1960 with the loss of the stations between Northampton and Market Harborough. Attempts were made to revive the service, with through traffic being reintroduced for a few months in 1969 and for a year in

Signal box at Pitsford & Brampton station

1972. But by August 1973 the line was finally closed to passengers. The last ever British Rail train to run the track made its journey on 15th August 1981, watched by many with nostalgia and regret. The line closed to all traffic the next day, 123 years after it opened.

But the romance of the railway is with us still. Northamptonshire County Council purchased the old ‘up’ track way to create a 14 mile long ‘linear park’ including the Kelmarsh and

Oxenden tunnels. This route has been made safe and offers an enjoyable walking and cycling route for the public, punctuated by at least three pubs along the way.

After the closures, a group of enthusiasts formed, who eventually became the ‘Northampton and Lamport Railway’ (NLR) in order to preserve, rebuild and reopen what they could, based in the old goods yard at Pitsford & Brampton station. And what they have managed to achieve as volunteers is truly remarkable.

In their initial project, a massive effort succeeded in restoring the Pitsford & Brampton station, two signal boxes, three quarters of a mile of running line and some sidings. The first passengers were carried along the newly restored section some fourteen years after the final closure, on 19th November 1995. Four months later the line was officially opened.

The Class 31 Diesel, ‘Phoenix’ engine

And seven years later in 2002 the working volunteer members managed to extend the line to the next bridge along requiring a great deal of hard work, and fundraising realising an initial sum of £50,000 with help from the National Lottery.

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

35

LOCAL HISTORY

The current big push is to complete the southern line extension to reach the Boughton Crossing. The volunteers have been working hard even through the pandemic to restore an eightarch viaduct and build a new station at Boughton. Track is laid, and the platform nearly ready. It will be very exciting when it opens!

And of course, I haven’t yet mentioned the engines that power along the tracks, pulling passengers of all ages, perhaps the topic for another day.

Steam and diesel engines both have their charms, including their unique sounds and smells transporting us back into the past, or perhaps even back to the much-loved books of our childhood memories.

Most visitors to the NLR are either railway enthusiasts, families introducing children to the fun of the railway, or older folks enjoying the nostalgia of their past. A trip on the railway is the perfect multi-generational day out. And the grin I felt appearing on my arrival at the station seems to be the most usual response. Chatting with the young volunteer ticket inspectors, they said that almost everyone leaves the train carriages at the end of their journey with smiles on their faces.

N & L Railway Station masters Jason Bosworth and Joe Pratt

More smiles are to be found in the fabulous little café housed in an old carriage. The team that produces the yummy all day breakfast baps, fresh rolls and burgers, cakes, snacks and beverages all volunteer for the pleasure of helping people to have a fun day out.

Visitors can either enjoy their food at the platform picnic tables, or even in a private compartment in the First-Class carriage pulled up nearby.

36

Ladies in the Platform 3 Café Kay Giles and Sam Penford

There’s a shop filled with memorabilia, currently also acting as the ticket office. The platform is decorated with tubs of flowers, and piles of vintage luggage recreating the magic of the past. The Station Master is on hand to ensure all goes well, and ticket inspectors make sure you know where to go. It’s such a pleasant reminder of how things used to be, staff in smart uniform going out of their way to be helpful.

I found that the most interesting element of the visit was seeing what goes on in the Signal Box. This is the ‘nerve centre’ of the railway, and from here the safety of the line is managed. On the day I visited, a new volunteer signalman was enjoying learning the levers using a restored signalling system dating back to the 1880s. Signalling requires clear logical thinking, a rigorous routine, and a fair bit of physical effort to ensure that the signals up and down the line are showing the correct message. Visitors are welcome to watch the process as long as they don’t get in the way!

An additional safety element requires the use of a staff or block token to be physically exchanged between the train driver and the signalman to ensure that only one train is on each section of track, and this is why the train slows down as it passes through the station. I was lucky enough to ride in the cab along with the driver who

shared many stories along with the 2nd man and the guard. They all clearly love what they do.

The NLR operate on Sundays and on Bank Holidays, with seasonal ‘specials’.

There’s plenty of parking, and a bike rack for cyclists to join the train ride too. Well behaved dogs are welcome, and the accessible carriage suitable for wheelchairs is about to be available again. You will be hauled by either a steam or vintage diesel locomotive offering an ‘out and back’ ride of around 30 minutes. I loved my trip and enjoyed sitting at the station watching the train come and go and chatting with other like-minded folks enjoying the sunny afternoon out.

This is a truly friendly and inspiring society. They all have boundless enthusiasm for their railway and great ambitions for future projects. New volunteers of all ages are welcome, as it takes around 15 volunteers to run a Sunday service, and full training is given. There were trainee ticket inspectors, signallers and a guard working on my visit. There is also ongoing track restoration for which additional volunteers are always appreciated.

This is one of the happiest days out that Northamptonshire has to offer, and as a summer Sunday treat it’s hard to beat. For more information, please visit www.nlr.org.uk

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CHARITY

FREE charity places up for grabs in Northampton Half Marathon races

J

ump into your running shoes this summer and take on a half marathon challenge to support your local NHS teams.

Pledge to raise a minimum of £100 for Northamptonshire Health Charity and you’ll run for FREE! The stunning course begins with a tour of Northampton’s heritage before heading out of town for some scenic countryside running.

If the 13.1-mile half marathon is a little too much, then simply halve it and register for The Size 6 instead.

The minimum amount to raise for your free place in this 6.9-mile race, which runs alongside the Northampton Half Marathon, is £75. You can break things up further by opting for the Northampton Half

Marathon Relay, which is in three stages with a minimum sponsorship requirement of £160 between you.

Northamptonshire Health Charity is the independent charity supporting Northampton General and Kettering General Hospitals as well as all of the community and mental health hospitals and services under Northamptonshire Healthcare Foundation Trust (NHFT). You can raise money for the ward, department or service that means the most to you and your family.

Alternatively, help the charity towards the targets for their current fundraising appeals for the new outside play area between the children’s wards at Northampton General; a new maternity

Join the team running for the Northamptonshire Health Charity at this year’s Northampton Half Marathon or the Size 6

bereavement suite at Kettering General; or for the development of the garden area at The Squirrels short breaks centre for children with disabilities and complex health conditions under NHFT. In 2019, runners raised over £14,000 for a wide-range of wards and departments, followed by 2021’s smaller team raising £5,000. This included 7 runners who ran in memory of Theo Crussell and who were raising money 4Theo in aid of the Bereavement Midwifery team at Northampton General Hospital and Action on Pre-eclampsia.

It’s not too late to get started with your training and the charity will support you with your fundraising every step of the way as well as being there on race day to cheer you on!

Sign up via the charity’s website at: northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/ events/northampton-half-marathon-2/

Contact the charity t: 01604 626927 e: greenheart@nhcf.co.uk w: www.northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk 38

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

Pack a picnic for this classical spectacular The world-famous GUS Band is hosting a Picnic on the Lawn concert at the University of Northampton on July 16th, 2022, and it’s going to be a belter

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ith Northamptonshire Youth Performances and special guests like Northampton Male Voice Choir and Joshua Daniel aka ‘The Tenor’ this marks an exciting moment in the Northampton Brass Bands’ calendar.

Guests are encouraged to pack a picnic, bring a rug and some bubbles and head on down to the Engine Shed Lawn for what promises to be a sensational summer’s evening event and a first for the GUS Band in Northampton.

Speaking of the event, conductor and compere for the evening Stephen Bell said, “We’ve been planning this for over a year now and it’s all coming together brilliantly, I can’t wait to hear the youth performances because we want to give the young talent in Northampton an opportunity to have some stage and performing experience.

“Once the mighty GUS band takes to the main stage at 7.30 pm there will be glorious music for everyone to enjoy from Finlandia to Toccata in D Minor and Paganini with opportunities to sing along to favourites from Elgar’s Land of Hope and Glory and Jerusalem with the Northampton Male Voice Choir and Joshua Daniel. This event will have people bursting with melody and tunes and it’s simply not to be missed.”

The Classical Spectacular will be held on University of Northampton’s Engine Shed lawn. Youth performances start at 5pm, when you can set up your picnic (and Gazebo too if you wish). >> For admission and gazebo tickets (under 16s free) and full details visit: https://bit.ly/GUSBAND to be considered for the Youth Performances please contact Stephen Bell on 07749 111171.

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39

LEGAL

Dr. Diana Rose Partner and family law expert

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

Can a non-molestation order prevent someone bothering me?

D

omestic abuse can impact people, of any age or race and is seen across all parts of society.

‘I often see clients that are frightened, perhaps having been cut off from family and friends, and having endured abuse for such a period that their own self-worth is diminished,’ says Diana Rose family law expert at Borneo Martell Turner Coulston. ‘Obtaining a non-molestation order can prevent your former partner contacting you again and can give you the breathing space to rebuild your life.’

statement after taking your detailed instructions and prepare the necessary supporting court forms.

What is a non-molestation order?

A non-molestation order is a type of injunction. It is an order from the court that forbids a person you know from threatening or using violence against you. It bans them from pestering, molesting, or harassing you.

If a non-molestation order is contested, then a hearing will be needed. The judge will hear evidence from you both before making a decision. We will represent your interests at the hearing and cross examine your former partner regarding their abusive behaviour. Most orders are made for a 12-month period. This can be extended or varied if circumstances should change.

Who can be stopped?

A non-molestation order can be obtained against a partner, a former partner, and other relatives too. The legislation states you must be associated to the person you are seeking the order against.

What are the grounds for a non-molestation order?

When deciding whether to grant a non-molestation order, the court will consider all relevant circumstances including the need to protect you and any children. What constitutes molestation is not defined in the legislation, but it has been found in practice to cover a wide range of abusive behaviours such as verbal, sexual, or financial abuse. One of our expert family lawyers will take the time to discuss with you the nature of your relationship and look at all aspects of how you have been treated.

How can I obtain a non-molestation order?

It is necessary to provide a statement to the court outlining the abuse you have suffered and why you require the protection of an order. We will draft this

40

Most non-molestation orders are obtained ex-parte, which means without notifying the other person first.

This is permitted in these cases due to the higher level of protection it gives to you. If an ex-parte order is made, then the order will be served on your former partner and a new court date will be set to allow them to attend and have their say.

What happens if a non-molestation order is breached?

Sadly, not all non-molestation orders are respected by the person they are made against as there is a section of society that has no respect for the law and may ignore the order. It is important that you also take practical steps to protect your safety. You may want to look at installing cameras around your home or a panic button.

Also, consider changing the locks if your former partner previously had keys.

If a non-molestation order is breached, you should contact the police immediately. They will arrest your former partner if they have breached the order, as this constitutes a criminal offence.

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

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

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41

Primark £6 >>

FASHION

River Island £14

T E J

NETSET

Main image: Dress by Monsoon £80

Things are really hotting up outside (seems the sun got all our memos), so it’s time to rummage (through your wardrobe at home first, obviously) for the summer-ready cutouts, light/sheer fabrics, billowy blouses, skirts and dresses befitting all this heat.

Whether you’ll be enjoying it on home soil, or following the herd down to Greece (...) on holiday, loving the 90’s trend is still key; think halter tops, strappy tops, the miniest of miniskirts, and lots of straight leg denim.

But what else is pretty (and) cool right now?

Who’d have guessed but: crochet.

Spied on the catwalks at Saint Laurent, Supriya Lele and more, were knitted, netted and wovenwear - from versatile two-pieces (which you can find at River Island) to stand out dresses (see Matalan and Monsoon), and basics elevated by a bit of fringing or sparkling yarn (found everywhere).

Worn well, the look’s far from ‘granny-ish’ and easy to include among the items you already own, too. Just try weaving in one crocheted accessory with your current fave summer ‘fit - a bucket hat, a clutch or tote bag, or Primark’s cute knitted collar.

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Right for circling the shops or the pool, you also can’t go wrong wearing a hint of mesh, lace or broderie anglaise - but join the jet set in a net set and you’ll find that keeping your outfit super cool is a (literal) breeze.

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July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

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HEALTHCARE

Choose from a range of products available on Motability at Oakley Healthcare & Mobility superstore

Oakley Healthcare & Mobility:

Get the best out of life

O

akley Healthcare & Mobility is a successful family company, trading for over 40 years, providing mobility and healthcare equipment to Northampton, Rushden and Wellingborough.

Get out and about with the Motability Scheme

you about the scheme. Call 01604 602000 to arrange a FREE home visit and for any further information.

Relaxed customer experience

If you receive Enhanced PIP (Personal Independence Payment) or Higher Rate DLA (Disability Living Allowance) you would qualify to use your mobility allowance to lease a Scooter or Powerchair from Oakley Mobility.

The scheme is simple! You exchange part of your mobility allowance to lease the scooter or powerchair of your choice.

Leasing costs are all inclusive and include insurance, servicing, repairs and breakdown cover, giving independence and peace-of-mind to those with specialist mobility needs.

Oakley Mobility are one of the largest Motability dealers in the Northampton area and have Motability specialists available to visit you at home to assess your requirements and advise

As a family company Oakley are dedicated to customer service. Visitors to their large and fully accessible mobility showroom in Northampton are given any help and advice they require to help them make the correct choice.

Without the pressure selling of some larger retail chains, customers are invited to have complimentary refreshments whilst they consider the options, before making the choice that meets their personal requirements.

More items in stock than ever before With the effects of the economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit still being felt, many of the mobility equipment manufacturers have increased their lead times for large mobility equipment as production has slowed due to the enforced factory closures

Antiques Centre

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OPEN: Wed to Mon 10am-4pm, CLOSED: Tues Facebook: @vintiqueltd Instagram: vintique.limited T: 01327 341 980 E: info@vintique.co W: vintique.co 44

The Oakley Healthcare & Mobility superstore on Monkspond Street, Northampton

TO SEE A RANGE OF PRODUCTS AVAILABLE ON MOTABILITY CHECK OUT OUR ADVERT ON THE BACK COVER >>

or reduction of personnel working on the production line.

This increased the wait for large items by many weeks in some cases but, as an example of Oakley’s dedication to customer service, this friendly, family company increased the size of their warehousing space. This has allowed many more items, including many popular riser/recliner chairs and specialist beds, to be stocked and available to be purchased by customers straight off the shelf.

With no more long waits for products to be manufactured and delivered, items can often be delivered next-day or even same-day straight from stock and FREE OF CHARGE!

Working with charitable organisations

Combined with this, the last 12 months has also seen Oakley Healthcare & Mobility strengthening ties with local charities within the community, proudly working in partnership with the NHS, Age UK (Northamptonshire), the British Polio Fellowship and Northamptonshire Association for the Blind (NAB). > If you think Oakley Healthcare & Mobility could help you, call 01604 602000 or visit their mobility superstore on Monkspond Street, Northampton, NN1 2LF (Mon-Fri 8am-5pm).

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

45

FOOD & DRINK

Warm salmon & beetroot salad METHOD 1. In a bowl, mix the vinegar and honey with a pinch of salt. Stir in the shallot; set aside for 10 minutes to quick-pickle.

2. Meanwhile, heat the lentils according to pack instructions, then toss with the beetroot and oil in a serving bowl; season. Add the rocket leaves and flaked salmon.

INGREDIENTS 2 tsp red wine vinegar 1 tsp clear honey 1 small echalion shallot, thinly sliced into rings 250g pack ready-cooked puy lentils 200g cooked beetroot, from a pouch, sliced into rounds

3. Using a fork, lift the shallot from the pickling liquor and scatter over the salmon. Stir the horseradish, soured cream and dill into the pickling liquor. Season and serve at once, with the soured cream mixture on the side for spooning over.

COOK’S TIP Quick-pickling is a way great way to mellow the flavour of raw shallots and gives this salad a tangy boost. You could also use this method to quick-pickle finely sliced cucumber or radishes.

1 tsp olive oil ½ of a 90g pack wild rocket 2 Waitrose Scottish Poached Salmon Fillets, skin removed and flesh flaked

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes

2 tsp hot horseradish sauce 2 tbsp soured cream ¼ of a 20g pack dill, finely chopped 46

Recipe and photo courtesy of Waitrose.

Recipes can be found at www.waitrose.com/recipes.

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

RESTAURANT & BAR

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36a Market Place, Olney, MK46 4AJ 01234 717000 info@olneyskitchen.uk For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

47

HOME & GARDEN

DIGGING DEEP

Living with slugs and snails

H

ere’s a controversial thing. If they aren’t interfering with your best garden displays, would you consider letting gastropods live free in your garden?

Slugs and snails have long been treated with contempt by green-fingered types, but things are changing; The Royal Horticultural Society has had a rethink regarding slugs and snails, and they are no longer being classed as pests.

Instead they will be promoted as a positive part of a garden’s ecosystem, and rightly so; those great big slugs that take our attention as they slowly slide around our outside spaces actually munch their way through dead and decaying plant material and other debris. You might want to think of them as important mini compost machines!

Aside from clearing the old plants, they are predated on by other garden residents, who are themselves struggling to survive.

Hedgehog numbers are declining, so too are many of our garden bird species. And both are partial to slugs and snails. Frogs and toads gobble them up too.

Slugs have their place in our outside spaces, and so too do snails.

It’s also a misconception to think that all snails and slugs attack your green stuff, but of course there are a proportion that do, and if your cabbages have been catastrophically munched, or your blooms devoured, it can be devastating - especially after so much hard work has gone into growing them.

A ban on slug pellets was brought in earlier this year – they often contain metaldehyde, which doesn’t just stop the slug dead, it is also harmful to birds, hedgehogs and even dogs.

Pic: Hans Splinter - flickr

The RHS are taking a different line towards garden gastropods

And you should never reach for the salt pot, either. It’s important to remember that slugs just do what slugs do. Introducing salt causes osmosis and sucks water from their bodies until they die of dehydration. You wouldn’t pour salt into an open wound, or rub it into your eye because you know that it is excruciatingly painful. So please don’t do it to creatures that are all the more fragile.

Besides, no matter how you try, you’ll never eradicate them completely, but there are humane, natural ways to help keep your plant life happy; coffee grounds, recycled wool pellets, garlic and copper tape all annoy them, and could keep your marigolds looking marvellous and your pumpkins perky. You get the idea.

A ‘sacrificial bed’, comprising plants that snails and slugs can feast on, thus leaving your other garden growers alone, is a smart way to garden harmony.

Lavender is actually a herb with many known health benefits

48

Pic: Marie Baeten - flickr

Top Tip...

It’s a familiar sight in our herb gardens and borders, and English Lavender is currently in mid-bloom with its many pretty petite and very fragrant flowers.

The herb is also used to help with a number of ailments and conditions; most famously as an aid to sleep. If you are struggling with insomnia, lavender may be your new best friend.

If it’s growing in your garden, now is a great time to prune the flowers – cut the stems by taking around a third of its growth, but no more. Bunch them together and hang upside down for use later on.

How does your garden grow?

A

nnuals are coming into flower. I love relaxing in the early evening, perhaps with a glass of wine, and watching the bees on my Cosmos which I sowed in the greenhouse in April (pictured).

The single-flowered varieties ensure the bees can obtain the pollen easily. To keep the plants flowering, dead-head regularly. Try to avoid watering, unless there is a drought.

Not ‘little and often’ as this brings the roots to the surface, but a good soak.

This brings me to a key point. We all love to see a verdant green lawn, but at this time of the year that may be almost impossible to achieve. Make a decision. Grass will survive a drought, but if you feel that you must water, do so in a measured way, preferably in the evening when the lawn is in shade. Put a standard jam jar in the sprinkler area and only water until it holds approximately 13mm (0.5’’) of water. This is the optimum amount to avoid wasting water whilst still wetting the roots sufficiently.

In the vegetable garden keep cutting courgettes and picking beans. There’s little point in ‘growing your own’ if you let them get to the size of the shopbought varieties.

If you have a glut, enlist the help of your freezer, possibly as soup ready for the winter.

July is a good time to think about the next season. Make sure you have catalogues, particularly for bulbs.

Visit open gardens and make a note of plants for your garden, either to purchase now, or for 2023!

Gill Routhorn > 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.

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

HOME & GARDEN

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Finding the right energy efficient windows for your character property

F

inding the right energy efficient UPVC system for traditional or heritage projects, isn’t always easy.

Striking the balance between design, aesthetics, energy efficiency and noise reduction while keeping a traditional look can be difficult to navigate. However, now there is a window design that offers the appearance of a historical wooden window, with the weatherproofing, low maintenance, and high insulating qualities of a 21st century UPVC design – let us introduce, the Flush Casement Profile 22 window.

Profile 22 have designed an elegant and striking Flush Casement Window, with the highest quality craftsmanship and design to mimic the appearance of traditional timber windows, offering the A-rated insulating benefits that are associated with modern UPVC, including achieving an impressive U value of 1.2W/m2K. This ensures your windows retain the charm and elegance of a 19th century character property with the energy-efficiency and upgraded PAS24 security of 21st century windows.

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Profile 22 have designed an elegant and striking Flush Casement Window, with the highest quality craftsmanship and design to mimic the appearance of traditional timber windows

have studied the finer details of historical window design, to ensure the windows give you complete peace of mind and enhance the aesthetics of your property. The system has been crafted using the highest standard advanced technology and smooth weld tooling. This now allows the windows to be designed with Mechanically Jointed Sashes, Deep Bottom Rails, Blacksmith style forged monkey tail handles and dummy peg stays, all of which complete the window design to look completely traditional.

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INTERIORS

Sustainable

S

ustainability is at the forefront of everyone’s thoughts these days, and for good reason. From bamboo toothbrushes and reusable cotton pads to gorgeous gifts and statement bags, there are so many sustainable alternatives available to help us be kinder to the environment.

www.jjtextile.co.uk

Design

corsesidenursery.com

It’s becoming second nature for companies to follow an eco-conscious route, pressured by consumers and laws to ensure the environment is at the forefront of decision making. Interior design is no different, with homeowners, interior designers, architects and students all having a responsibility to design with an eco-friendly approach in mind. To achieve truly sustainable interior design, many aspects should be considered - composition, origin, transportation, waste reduction, energy efficiency and longevity.

But being sustainable doesn’t rule out buying new or having nice things in your home. You don’t solely have to be reusing and upcycling to be environmentally mindful.

Designers Guild’s eco-friendly range of vibrant matt emulsion, eggshell and floor paints are water-based and low or very low in VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds, that contribute to atmospheric pollution).

VOCs in paints are usually solvents, which evaporate as paint dries and release pollutants into the environment. Waterbased paints are kinder to the environment and enable you to clean your brushes and other equipment simply using warm, soapy water. No need for harsh chemicals.

Designed to last, the Designers Guild paints

Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262 www.millsandkinsella.com 50

www.linenbarn.com.au

www.wallsandfloors.co.uk

are washable (including their chalky matt emulsion) and extremely durable. All offer excellent coverage, adhesion and flow, meaning fewer coats are needed, when compared with other premium paints.

They are also quick drying meaning your decorator can finish sooner. They are manufactured in the UK so have a lower carbon footprint than internationally manufactured paints and the paint tins are made using 50% recycled steel which can be recycled again after use.1 As a major contributor to the textile industry, Osborne and Little play their part by embracing new eco-friendly technologies.

They recently introduced ‘Ocean’ - their first collection of fabrics made by processing plastic bottles into chips and then filament yarn. The yarn is spun, textured and woven into beautifully soft fabrics. In addition, 10% of this collection’s first year’s turnover

is to be donated to support the One Ocean Foundation. This funds amazing projects throughout the world, reducing pollution and returning the oceans to the cleanliness they deserve.2 Indirectly, Colefax and Fowler, a British company distributing luxury furnishing fabrics and wallpapers across the world has been supporting the effort to lessen its impact on the environment.

The company has recently achieved the Planet Mark certification and in doing so has set a target to reduce its carbon emissions by 5% annually. Through Planet Mark the company has also protected an area of endangered rainforest thanks to Cool Earth, a charity working alongside rainforest communities to halt deforestation. Its pledge through Cool Earth goes directly towards supporting the Asháninka community in Central Peru.

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

THE ARTS They have also helped the Eden Project – an educational charity building connections with each other and the living world, exploring how we can work together towards a better future.3 In addition to the big names doing their bit at corporate level, there are plenty of ways for us to shop conscientiously for our homes both locally and online. Whatever product you’re thinking of buying, be sure to ask the company or use the search option online to explore what eco-friendly products are available.

At the Walls and Floors tile showroom in Kettering, the Yuri Sand range of recycled tiles have a raw, industrial feel that emulate the look of salvaged metals and concrete, with small details in their appearance like abrasions and oxidisation.

In light shades of beige, they are mottled and metallic, creating comforting feelings of warmth and relaxation; you can almost feel the soft sand beneath your feet.

They are made from 90% recycled raw materials, water and minerals, with an eco-friendly manufacturing process. With no compromise on quality or finish they are the ideal choice if you’re keen to have a more sustainably designed bathroom or kitchen.4 At Coreside Nursery, you’ll find pretty Ocean Plastic Plant Pots, made from 100% reclaimed fishing rope and nets from UK oceans. The Braided Rug Company make their rugs from recycled plastic whilst Homescapes Online have a colourful range of rugs made from 100% cotton, sourced from recycled fabric offcuts.

Whether you chose to adorn your home with recycled glass accessories, curtains made from plastic bottles or washable paints originating in the UK, rest assured that it is completely possible to redesign your home in a way that not only reduces your impact on the environment but could also be instrumental in improving it for future generations to come. www.designersguild.com 2www.osborneandlittle.com www.colefax.com 4www.wallsandfloors.co.uk

1

www.prestigious.co.uk

3

SPOTLIGHT ON

FABIAN PEREZ Enter the atmospheric world of Fabian Perez

F

or those that love the craft and beauty of figurative painting, the work of Fabian Perez will stop you in your tracks.

Fabian Perez takes inspiration from his fascinating upbringing in the back streets of Argentina, but his artistic skill creates sophisticated, seductive art that has led him to huge international success.

Born in the capital Buenos Aires in 1967, Fabian had a tumultuous childhood. His father was a charismatic man with a difficult life, owning a number of brothels and illegal nightclubs which meant he was frequently running from the law. But the scenes he witnessed as a young boy during this time left a deep impression and led to a lifelong fascination with the underground world of city nightlife. He often draws on his father for inspiration when painting male figures, as the brooding cool guy at the bar and he remembers the beautiful women he would see in the clubs or dancing the tango.

It was Fabian’s artistic mother that encouraged him to pursue his talents and ultimately his creativity led him to a better life. Incredibly considering his talent, he has never received any formal training in painting.

He developed his style and skillset over a number of years through a deep love of art and

painting portraits of his friends and family. In particular he is influenced by artists such as Picasso, Sargent and Cézanne – but his work is unmistakably his own, with its distinctive interplay between shadows and light. Fabian has named his style or art movement, called Neo-Emotionalism, which he says places emphasis on emotion and dramatic narrative, “I do not want to paint on canvas, I want to let my feelings become shapes on the canvas without thinking about the results – letting my experiences tell their own story with each brushstroke” – Fabian Perez.

Fabian’s success has led him to become one of the world’s most collected artists as well as receiving commissions to paint a number of famous people including Pope Francis, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Al Pacino. In a local connection, he recently made an appearance at the family home of Princess Diana, Althorp House in Northampton, where he unveiled a portrait of Lady Countess Spencer.

Celine Lee Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

51

MUSIC

Twinfest feeds togetherness

T

winfest returns for four days of cool this July (28-31) and it is ready to once again celebrate the friendship that exists between the twin towns of Northampton, Marburg in Germany and Poitiers in France using our love of music.

And there’s no glue as good as that.

“We like to think that Twinfest is the festival that reaches out, not only to musicians, but also the wider public - to welcome into their town and sometimes their homes, our friends from Marburg and Poitiers,” organisers Kenny, Paul

and Bee told Pulse, “It’s a festival that unites, which is needed more than ever in this hour of separation, that which the politicians would have us celebrating.”

Here’s what’s happening, and when as Twinfest celebrates it’s 25th anniversary.

Headliners in bold.

Thursday, July 28 Indie-pop and alt-indie is the calling, with a splash of noisy shoegaze over at The Black Prince: Eddz Rathmann (Marburg) Nothing Works (Poitiers) Viddy Friday, July 29, Freaky Friday The Lamplighter will deliver four bands and between them your ears will be taking in indie-pop-rock, garage punk, some more noisy shoegaze and a set of rap: Flimboy (Marburg) The Snakeman 3 Nothing Works (Poitiers) Krankhead Friday, July 29, Freaky Friday A journey into alt-rock at The Garibaldi Hotel:

Eddz is at The Black Prince on the Thursday

Stereo Ghosts Bloody Bath Rathmann (Marburg) Rolling Thunder

F 52

Tu-Kay and Ryan Russ Heyworth Paul Cox Celine Ellis Tom Rose Fossilheads Ant!i!

Rathmann (Marburg) Wishing Wolf Nothing Works (Poitiers) Leo Robinson Flimboy (Marburg) Tragic Sunday, July 31 – Twinfest Super Sunday You’ll have had three days of live antics, but if you’ve got the stamina, organisers have got one day more.

The festival reaches its end over at The Black Prince, with the Garden Stage handling music by:

Cave men return ancy getting a Friday buzz with some high energy psychedelic rock?

Northampton’s own The Marabar Caves will be dishing that up for those ready to share in their date at The Lamplighter on July 8.

Marabar Caves debuted in the town the year after Charles and Di walked down the aisle, issuing the single, Seeds that Never Grew/ Sally’s Place and an EP Eyes of the Fire, and they were scene regulars for more than a decade, eventually calling time in the mid-90s.

They reformed in 2018 with guitarists Tony Riseley and Bill Westley and drummer Steve Goddard being joined in musicality by bassist Duncan Bisatt, who took over from Chris Jess.

Saturday, July 30 – The Super Saturday all-dayer A mammoth day of music being hosted in The Charles Bradlaugh Garden, with acoustic sessions, alt-rock, rap and all sorts of cool during a mad 12 hour session, which will include eco-political-folk-comicopera-theatre courtesy of Fossilheads.

Obviously.

The full listing is:

The Marabar Caves

They are keeping the creativity going, too; the quartet issued a new single a couple of months back – Suicide Mission is out all the usual streaming platforms.

Alex Novak will take up position at the decks keeping the tunes coming thick and fast for the rest of the evening.

Doors at 8pm, and the bash – running through to 1am – is free.

Luna Rosa Glow Worm Crawlspaces Balter Deaf Trap Dancing Drums The Marabar Caves The Barratts Rathmann (Marburg) Nothing Works (Poitiers) Phantom Isle > For ticket details and all the latest information visit Facebook: twinfest.northampton

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

MUSIC

The Black Prince

turns Scarlet

I

t’s not always about quantity, it’s quality that counts and SBD Promotions only have two shows at home this month, as festival season kicks in. But they are goodies.

First up, Wonk Unit will visit The Black Prince on July 2.

Formed by former Flying Medallions member Alex as an output for his personal diary, the band and its unique take on punk rock has charmed audiences one gig at a time – and they’ve played many, accumulating a great fan base far and wide.

You can ask for a definitive band sound, but you’ll not get one; ‘The Wonk Unit sound is hard to box in,’ they say.

In fact, Alex tips his ears to everyone from Leatherface to Elton John.

Wonk Unit exited the lockdown in 2021 with their eighth album, Uncle Daddy, ready to go, and the rest of 2022 looks good too, with gigs aplenty, including a stint on the road with Californian punkers Bad Cop/Bad Cop, featuring the greatness of Stacey Dee. But back to The Black Prince date, and support is coming from Northampton’s own punk players Spring Park and fellow ‘fampton punk rockers Kröker.

Female fronted grunge-pop rock types Scarlet bookend the month, with a date at the venue on July 30.

The band, which hails from the Northwest of England, has been through the town before, but not for five years, and since then they’ve gained support from a heap of necessary radio stations.

As for festival dates?

They’ve done more than a few of those too – from South Korea’s Zandari Festa to London’s Hanwell Hootie in memory amplification Catch Wonk Unit at The Black Prince this month giant founder Jim Marshall.

Scarlet bring July to a close at The Black Prince

The majority of dates sold out for their last two tours, and when the pandemic hit they kept on trucking; releasing the single Friends, which was dedicated to the NHS, frontline staff and everyone struggling with the isolation that lockdown created.

Support comes from Sleepy Beaucat, whose debut EP found favour on this page last year, and Parking on Pavements.

Tickets for both shows are £10, plus booking fee. > Check in with sbdpromotions.com for more.

Charming men and Kelly’s Eye

S

ome bands leave such a legacy that they still feel almost present. The Smiths are one such act; a band whose influence still resonates widely, whose lyrics are still devoured in bedrooms of angst ridden teens far and wide, and are still remembered with fondness by those old enough to identify with them when they were initially released.

And yet 2022 marks 35 years since tensions between members saw time called on the band.

Morrissey and Johnny Marr have both been prolific creators since, but despite some very tasty amounts being waved under their noses, they’ve never snatched the dollar and reunited.

Going to see The Smyths on stage isn’t quite the same as the real deal, but it’s a pretty darn good alternative. And this is not a tribute band, right? Let’s make that clear.

“We didn’t just want to be a tribute band – we wanted to play the music of The Smiths and recreate what it was to see and hear The Smiths live. It just happens that when you do that, the world calls you a tribute.

“For us, that was a world of silly wigs and props – everything we felt a homage to The Smiths shouldn’t be,” the band recalled.

So back in those formative days of 2003, the band rehearsed solid week in, week out for a year, cooking up a genuine sound – and spirit – that The Smiths used to deliver.

Eighteen years and several hundred shows later and they are still packing out venues and making people smile.

Oh, and these days they are quite happy to be called a tribute band. Eh?!

“The word tribute has developed... coming to represent something that is not silly or trite but the best way to see and experience the music

of bands no longer with us played by artists who are as passionate and dedicated to their shows as actors and actresses,” they said.

Tickets are on sale at £17.

On July 15, Bingo Loco is back. This is bingo, but not like you know it!

“We’ve flipped the traditional game on its head and turned it into a three hour interactive stage show complete with dance offs, lip sync battles, throwback anthems, confetti showers and prizes ranging from cars to lawnmowers,” organisers promise.

“Bingo Loco is not an event, it is a show with the mentality of a theatre performance and the energy of a festival.”

Show time runs from Lucky Seven to Boris Johnson’s den. If you know, you’ll know. > Visit theroadmender.com for more on either show.

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

53

WHATS ON

#WhatsOnPulse Vivian Maier: Anthology Until September 25 Visit Milton Keynes Gallery for a fascinating look at the work of 20th century street photographer Vivian Maier, which is being exhibited in the UK for the first time. This is real life through the lens, and Vivian was incredibly prolific – recording thousands of photographs during her lifetime, which now serve as a remarkable look at life in New York and Chicago in the 1950s and 1960s. She wasn’t even a snapper by trade – she was a children’s nanny! An amazing story, and an equally amazing show.

Development: mkgallery.org

The Handlebards present Twelfth Night in Naseby, while The End of Now (below) plays in Corby

Art Exhibition Saturday, July 2 - Friday, July 29 Retired professional art tutor Tamsin Edwards and published illustrator Marlene Snee team up for a joint exhibition at The Three Hares Gallery in Olney. Works will include watercolour with differing styles giving the visitor a rich feast for the eyes. Admission is free. Art attack: cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk texart.co.uk and marlenesnee.co.uk The End of Now Saturday, July 2 Take a seat at The Core in Corby and let the cast of Genesis Schools and Agency entertain.

An original musical which comments on today’s society and humanity’s addiction to technology.

The start of something: thecorecorby.com The 80’s Hair Metal Experience Saturday, July 2, 9pm If Whitesnake wowed you, you thought Poison were pretty and Bon Jovi were brilliant, this is the show for you, big hair, big riffs and quite often big lipstick too!

Rock ‘til you drop at The Picturedrome on Kettering Road.

Livin’ On A Prayer: thepicturedrome.com Danesborough Chorus Concert Saturday, July 2, 7.30pm Join the chorus as they deliver Michael Haydn’s Requiem in C minor and Joseph Haydn’s Maria Theresa Mass in the tranquil setting of St Mary’s Parish Church in Woburn.

On song: 01908 583460 or danesborough.org.uk

54

The Rocky Horror Show Monday, July 4 – Saturday, July 9 Fun, frolics, frocks and frivolity is a given with the return of Richard O’Brien’s rock ‘n’ roll musical, which stars Strictly glitterball holder Ore Oduba as Brad. Pelvic-thrusting isn’t optional!

Time Warp: royalandderngate.co.uk

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

WHATS ON

Hot Red Chilli Peppers Thursday, July 7 Enjoy the rock and groove of the funky and fabulous Red Hot Chilli Peppers courtesy of the tribute mob. Suck My Kiss, Under The Bridge, Give It Away, Rollercoaster... you know the catalogue. Visit Unit Nine in Old Wolverton and soak it up. Fight Like a Brave: unitnine.com

Denton & District Gardening Club Monday, July 11, 7.30pm Janette Merillion will be telling you how to ‘Brighten up the shade’ at Denton Village Hall. A raffle and refreshments will also feature. Members are free, visitors £3. Everyone is welcome. More information on 01604 890875 or email m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk

The Picturedrome Comedy Club Thursday, July 7 Join Sean McLoughlin, Faye Treacy and MC Ben Briggs in Northampton, as they get you ready for headliner Nathan Caton in a night full of the funnies. We all need some of those just now, right?

Have you heard the one about... thepicturedrome.com

Deborah Bonham Band Thursday, July 14 The sister of late Led Zeppelin drummer John, Deborah is more than a bit good when it comes to vocal abilities. She’s a blues, rock and soul singer with a real pedigree, and a lady who has collaborated with many, but is just as swell when out on her own.

Rock ‘n’ roll over: stables.org The HandleBards present Twelfth Night Friday, July 15 Enjoy the Bard’s brilliance with a difference; this group of creatives carry all the set, props and costume necessary for their performance on the back of their bikes! The open air theatre event in Naseby will get you in the mood for a marvellous weekend. Bardy brilliant: HandleBards.com/tickets Starlight Dance and Musical Theatre School: Villainous Saturday, July 16 & Sunday, July 17 Starlight Dance presents their 11th show, which is based on the most evil villains to exist in film and TV. You will be spooked: thecorecorby.com Naseby Village Fair, Classic Car event & Dog Show Sunday, July 17, 10am-5pm Classic motors, canines galore and all sorts of entertainment come together for this village fair, which will be supporting The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

The Rock Choir, a Flyball demo, heritage bus rides, craft stalls and more will feature.

Music and movement will come courtesy of Northants School of Dance and Naseby Wind Band.

A gala event: nasebyvillagehall.org Gilbert O’Sullivan Friday, July 22 He hit the Number One spot with tracks like Clair and Get Down in the 1970s, and Gilbert is still entertaining fans today. Catch him at Wavendon spot The Stables on the first date of his latest UK tour.

Still driven: stables.org

Little Houghton Open Gardens Saturday and Sunday 16th & 17th July, 1-5pm both days Ten mature and beautiful gardens will be open around the village, including Little Houghton House Gardens.

Deep borders and thoughtful planting will inspire garden experts and new enthusiasts alike. Stunning floral displays are also to be found inside St Mary’s church, where cream teas and home-made cakes will be served from 2-5pm both days. There will also be an ice cream stall in the village.

A lovely day out. £5.00 entry per person, to cover all the gardens. 16 years and under are free of charge.

Easy, sign-posted parking in a paddock within the village.

Enquiries to 07980 750319 or 07929 855709 Bite Street Northampton Friday, July 22, 5.30pm-10pm (also Sat, July 23, 1pm-10pm & Sunday, July 24 (noon-4.30pm) The return of the pop-up street food event at the supporter village at Franklin’s Gardens which will recreate its Summer of Food Love.

The event promises fab eats and liquid treats.

Oh, and cool beats!

Lip lickingly good: bitestreet.co.uk A Romp with the Georgians Sunday, July 24, 2-4pm Join David Harper (well-known for appearances on Bargain Hunt, Flog It and Antiques Road Trip) for his new stand-up history show, which takes a funny and lighthearted look at our ancestors’ lives in Britain during the Georgian Period.

Funny, shocking, dastardly and true tales aplenty in the garden of The Cowper & Newton Museum. Well, I never! cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk

For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

55

THEATRE

Make a date with the dinosaurs at The Old Savoy

Missing Strictly? Get your fix at the Derngate in July

Theatre dates that are

pure Dino-mite!

S trictly might be off the small screen at the moment, but seldom a week seems to pass without one of the twinkled-toed professionals passing through.

Here Come The Boys (July 1) is a bumper package with five familiars teaming up to perform against a backdrop of dance-floor anthems, club classics and guilty pleasures.

Join Graziano di Prima, Pasha Kovalev, Nikita Kuzmin and Strictly finalist Karim Zeroual for the high-octane bash.

It’s not all about the boys though; Nadiya Bychkova will bring added glamour to the night of sequins and sexy hip moves.

Speaking of Strictly, former Glitterball holder Ore Oduba arrives for a six day stay (July 4) back in his role of Brad in the fiery and fabulous rock n’ roll musical The Rocky Horror Show.

More than 30 million theatregoers have seen Richard O’Brien’s legendary delivery. May we suggest you start practicing those pelvic thrusts right away?

Over at The Underground, Seussical Jr. plays out (July 8-10) with Dr Seuss’ best-loved characters colliding, cavorting and springing to life in an unforgettable musical caper, performed by Royal & Derngate Youth Theatre and Young Company Musicals.

Horton the Elephant discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos... and that’s nothing to do with pocket-sized versions of Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey!

And In The End – a symphonic celebration of two classic Beatles albums

56

From a sprinkle of titillation to a monstrous event for Jurassic fans, Northampton’s got a lot to share on its stages in the month ahead, as Sammy Jones reveals...

Go support the rising talents Ore Oduba stars in The Rocky Horror Show in the area, and there are more champions of the future at the Derngate (July 10) with the NMPAT – New Generations concert at midday, and the Second Generation Concert at 6pm.

Jimmy Carr is Terribly Funny, which not coincidentally is the name of the show he’ll be performing at the Derngate (July 12).

Of course it contains jokes about all kinds of terrible things, but they are just jokes, not the terrible things themselves.

Pic: David Freeman By way of warning, the show blurb advises You are invited to The Eden Club (July 22) ‘Having political correctness at a comedy show for a lavish evening of food, drink and table is like having health and safety at a rodeo.’ entertainment. Those of you showing up in Which must make Carr the Bronco of your best PB attire won’t only look ace, you’ll this delivery... be battling it out for best dressed – with a The Mayhew School of Dance and bottle of prosecco for the one donning the Performing Arts is the ‘fampton’s oldest dance best Tommy or Polly attire. school, and they’ve lasted because they are A day later (July 23) and An Evening of great! They take to the Derngate stage (July 13 Burlesque blends cabaret, comedy, music, & 14) to present Once Upon A Time, a journey circus and burlesque for a scintillating into the realm of faerie. few hours with glitz and glamour by the And there is still more local talent for the bucketload. Well, it is Saturday night. Beats taking (July 15) when The Actors Company the small screen drear by a mile. delivers The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Brecht’s And the following Saturday (July 30), epic play which sets the grotesque against the Jurassic Earth will deliver roar-some hilarious, with a backdrop of war and revolution. entertainment for little people and their An exploration of justice, motherhood and grown-ups. social corruption are explored in the ‘play within If you love dinosaurs, you are going to be the play.’ in Jurassic heaven – a chance to talk to a A special night for Beatles fans comes to the Triceratops, roar with a T Rex, scream with a Derngate (July 26) when the Royal Liverpool Spinosaurus and revel in a Raptor!

Philharmonic Orchestra teams up with The And just wait until you meet the Dino babies.

Bootleg Beatles for a musical spectacular.

It’s cuteness overload!

And In The End will see the music makers There are two performances – choose from perform long-players Abbey Road and Let It Be midday or 3pm. in their entirety – but with a classical twist.

Come Together with your fellow Fab Four fans and get set for Something spectacular...

Tweed suits and flat caps at the ready; The > Book up: Old Savoy is presenting a themed event paying Royal & Derngate: royalandderngate.co.uk homage to one of the biggest small screen The Old Savoy: theoldsavoy.co.uk smashes in recent years. Any Peaky Blinders devotees reading this?

July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

PUZZLES

View from the Far Kerb

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

Reflected Greatness

T

he Global Warming Debate rages on. Does it exist?

Is humanity responsible for it?

Will it still rain on UK bank holidays?

Regardless of the truth, we do seem to be in receipt of rather a lot of sunny or dry days recently. So I thought of an idea which might be of great benefit to car owners regardless of whether Global Warming is real or the invention of overpaid marketing people. Some may say that it is a stroke of genius, but I am happy merely knowing it will help many.

Have you ever opened a car door on a sunny day and been greeted by what seems like air escaping from a furnace? You wait for the initial blast of heat to pass before getting in. Even when moving the temperature build up is intense.

It is all that glass. It makes the car behave like a greenhouse.

The only differences seem to be the possession of wheels and no straggly tomato plants growing on the back seat.

If you are having a conservatory built, for a little extra (okay, a lot extra – I don’t want to come over as a salesman) you can have special glass installed that reflects much of the sun’s rays so as to avoid turning it into an oven on sunny days. What we need to do is use the same glass in cars.

The problem, as I see it, is that the hot air released by opening a car door goes into the atmosphere.

Forget cows with their bottom burps – wafts of hot air from cars are far worse. Remove those waves of heat and you remove a contribution to Global Warming, should it be a thing (which it may or may not be – I don’t want to attract the ire of anyone on either side of the argument – although I am beginning to suspect that I may already have upset almost everyone by daring to have an opinion either way).

But back to my great idea.

In addition, the paint on cars can be formulated to reflect the sun’s rays in order to reduce or eliminate the heating effect through the roof or body panels. The knock-on effect is that there would be no need for air-conditioning, nor would there be need for mechanisms to open windows, thereby leading to a reduction in vehicle weight.

In turn that would give better fuel consumption figures, meaning less by way of hydrocarbons being released into the air.

If Global Warming were to not be a thing (although it might), then at least car drivers could kiss goodbye to being roasted at the beginning of journeys and enjoy lower running costs.

A potential downside would be the need for both drivers and pedestrians to wear sunglasses to overcome the glare caused by traffic. In built up areas with heavy congestion, it would probably be wise to hand out free pairs to residents who, without doubt, would be affected by reflections resulting from my greatness.

PHIL O’HARA

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1. Soldier (9) 9. Great fear (6) 10. Piece of money (4) 11. Freshwater fish (4) 12. Game bird (6) 13. Subsidiary treble melody (7) 16. Irritation (4) 17. Pipe (4) 18. Healthy (3) 20. Play on words (3) 21. Kingsley ----, author (4) 23. Presently (4)

25. Infectious disease (7) 26. Cutting tool (6) 29. Bucket (4) 30. Russian river (4) 31. Bank clerk (6) 32. Communications device (9)

Clues Down

2. Guided missile (6) 3. Castrated male (6) 4. Empty (6) 5. Male deer (4) 6. Hunting dog (7)

7. Pakistani language (4) 8. South American country (9) 13. Aspirated (anag.) (9) 14. Glance over (4) 15. Shirt-like garment (5) 18. Mass of ice (4) 19. Low wall (7) 22. Lay aside (6) 23. Detective (6) 24. Confer holy orders (6) 27. Soft part of fruit (4) 28. Article of commerce (4)

Solutions to Sudoku and Quick Crossword can be found on page 58 For the latest local news visit www.nnpulse.co.uk | NN Pulse Magazine | July 2022

57

Your stars LOCAL NEWS

HOWARD PARKER

THE ASTRO-GUIDE

Flavour of the Times - If June was faster moving than usual, July slows it all down. It is more emotional too and maybe a bit selfcentred, clingy even. It is family-centred as well and you may find yourself setting personal goals in your home that will in time, give you a greater sense of security. It’s a good time at the beginning of the month to do something to provide for the longer term as well. I’d recommend a little caution though, as there are some limitations built in to what can be achieved.

CANCER June 22 – July 23

SCORPIO October 24 – November 22

PISCES February 20 – March 20

LEO July 24 – August 23

SAGITTARIUS November 23 – December 22

ARIES March 21 – April 20

After the mad social, maybe slightly frantic Geminian whirl of June, you can start to feel better as this month opens – it’s as if your personal needs are finally getting some room to breathe. You may feel that a lot of emotion has been held back inside of you and now is the time to work out what you can to make yourself feel safer and more secure.

You may believe that you are very emotionally connected but how much do you actually show this to your nearest and dearest? The depth of feeling in you is undeniable and now is a good time to reveal it. The importance of family ties and how you create a nurturing spirit of safety and security around your home life will be emphasised.

There is a danger of misjudgments causing you to come unstuck this month as July may not work quite as well for you as you might hope.

There is a risk of false starts, overblown ideas and personal projects that other people just see as self indulgent and selfish. You may be seen as emotional insensitive and perhaps petulant as a result. Patience is definitely required now.

When did you last nurture your ‘inner child’?

Yours is a playful sign so this month is a great opportunity to have fun and indulge yourself a little. However, with Jupiter challenging the new moon, there is a definite risk of overdoing things, so keep an eye on any possible excesses because they could come back to haunt you at the full moon on 13th.

VIRGO August 24 – September 23

CAPRICORN December 23 – January 20

If you are involved in a radical restructuring of your life, this month provides the chance to check out if your plans will achieve for you what you hope they will. The devil is in the detail and you may be in your element fine tuning things to suit you better and make your life more secure.

Your natural analytic nature should stop you getting too emotional at the full moon on 13th.

Emotions that have been well hidden may come bursting to the surface this month.

You may have been taking on far too much responsibility for the well-being of others, so perhaps you can find time now to look at your own needs. As they say in flight safety briefings: put your own mask on first before trying to assist others!

LIBRA September 24 – October 23

AQUARIUS January 21 – February 19

Mars is still opposing your sign this month but you may be feeling a little less pressurised than you have lately. You may sense that it is a good time to try to pull people together and create emotional connections that will lead to greater harmony and balance between people. Don’t lose sight of your own personal needs at this time.

You get some relief from the over stimulation of last month and can now spend some time working out which of all the ideas on offer are actually going to suit you best. You are probably restructuring how your life works but this is an emotional rather than a mental process, so try to recognise what nurtures you as a unique individual and follow that instinct.

58

PUZZLE

SOLUTIONS

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.

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This is a good month for asking why you are doing what you do. You may have felt you are going through the motions or you may feel a constant sense of disruption from your usual routines that leaves you feeling ungrounded. Your need for security is very important to you so I’d advise you to spend time reflecting on what it is inside you that is looking for some love and TLC at the moment.

GEMINI May 22 – June 21

You had a lot of fun last month, but this month, the emotions catch up with you and may have left you feeling a little high and dry. There may still be opportunities for flirtations and hints about possible new relationships but how well do you really understand what you really, really want (or need for that matter)? A good time to spend some quiet time thinking about all this!

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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You may still sense the fiery force of Mars in your sign but it lacks direction and purpose now, so you should definitely ease your foot off the accelerator. When you do, you may notice that there are things that need attention in your life that you should slow down for and consider. If you really do have to be so active, look for the DIY jobs that need doing!

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The social whirl of last month may have left you exhausted and as usual, you have spread yourself far too thin. It is a time to take stock and find some space for nurturing yourself. Neptune is about to go retrograde which is an energy that invites you to live in the real world and wake up to reality as it is, not what you would like it to be.

Spiritually, invest in your own self-worth.

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July 2022 | NN Pulse Magazine | 22,000 Copies delivered every month door to door across Northamptonshire

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