NN Pulse magazine May 23

Editor

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Northampton Carnival will provide a real spectacle with specially created floats and colourful troupes of performers. This year they are marking the 75th anniversary of the people who arrived from the Caribbean on HMT Empire Windrush in 1948. You can discover Rural Life at Lamport Hall during the Bank Holiday weekend on Sunday 28th and Monday 29th May. Immerse yourself in country life through the ages, from horse-powered ploughing and steam engines to the rise of the tractor.

Northamptonshire Health Charity recently had a boost for its work to provide staff development and training along with new equipment and improvements for our local NHS hospitals. A £1,500 donation from Barratt Homes will help the charity support both Northampton and Kettering General Hospitals, and the community hospitals and mental health services under Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Of course, there will be plenty of bunting and street parties this month as we get ready for the Coronation. If you want to join others at our many local events you won’t be disappointed. Join the D-Day Darlings at Corby, the Community Festival on Guildhall Road or activities in villages, schools and sprots clubs every way you turn. Of course, it isn’t His Majesty’s first crown, so Laura Malpas looks back on the Prince of Wales crown which was designed and made in Northamptonshire.

As we all look forward to spending more time outdoors you could win a pair of tickets to visit BBC Gardeners’ World Live on Sunday in June. You could find all the gardening inspiration you need – all you have to do is send us your answer to a simple question by the end of the month.

Kerry

here’s a lot to celebrate and plenty to do in and around Northampton, as well as marking the Coronation this month.28 22 6 NEWS 9 CARNIVAL TIME! 12 LEGAL 15 LAMPORT HALL 16 CHARITY 20 CORONATION 22 LOCAL HISTORY 26 HOME & GARDEN 28 FOOD & DRINK 30 COMPETITION 38 INTERIORS 40 MUSIC 44 WHAT’S ON 47 THEATRE 48 MOTORING 49 PUZZLES 50 YOUR STARS 9 The edition Pulse is WEDNESDAY 10TH MAY

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rose of Northamptonshire Awards are back and ready to celebrate Northamptonshire folk who go above and beyond to support their local community. Nominations from around the county are now open.

The awards are being run by Northamptonshire Community Foundation with North and West Northamptonshire Councils. They were first launched in 2021 as part of the Unsung Heroes Initiative, looking to identify and thank groups and individuals who worked tirelessly to keep communities safe and businesses moving during the pandemic.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire James Saunders Watson and the county’s High Sheriff Crispin Holborow are fully behind the awards. “This gives all of us in Northamptonshire an opportunity to recognise the incredibly valuable contributions that individuals and groups make to our lives in the county,” says Mr Saunders Watson. “This also highlights the importance of volunteering which is one of the key themes of the Coronation.”

Adds Mr Holborrow: “Community groups, charities and volunteers do so much for us all and this is a way of thanking them as well as those in public service.”

“We wish that so many more community

groups, charities, social enterprises and volunteers get well deserved recognition for the incredible good so many do on the doorstep of our county and to celebrate civic pride in our local communities,” says its chief executive Rachel McGrath.

Both local authorities are backing the awards. West Northamptonshire Council chairman Cllr André González De Savage says: “We can rightfully recognise the quite outstanding efforts that stars in our community put in.

“Those brilliant people do what they do in such selfless and generous ways and deserve our full recognition.”

His North Northamptonshire counterpart Larry Henson agrees. “This is such a wonderful way to recognise and reward the many outstanding individuals, charities and groups in our county who go above and beyond, often on top of their already busy lives.”

To nominate, find the form and criteria at the Northamptonshire Community Foundation website www.ncf.com.

‘Community groups, charities and volunteers do so much for us all and this is a way of thanking them as well as those in public service’

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Family Service, Saving You Money.

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

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

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

unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

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

Saturday 10th June

From 12 Noon to 7.30pm

Racecourse Park

Northampton, NN1 4LG

Live Entertainment on stage

Spectacular Parade

Exciting Fun Fair

Wide range of Stalls

Celebrating the People Who Came #Carnival 2023

Carnival is coming… and we’re getting into the rhythm

75 years ago, the first influx of people from the Caribbean to the UK arrived in London aboard the HMT Empire Windrush. They became known as the Windrush Generation and the anniversary of their arrival is being celebrated at Northampton Carnival next month.

Prepare yourself for spectacular eye-catching costumes, beautifully created floats and vibrant, spirited troupes of performers on the streets of Northampton… yes, the town’s annual carnival is back next month.

This year’s theme promises a memorable and colourful occasion. Celebrating The People Who Came is Northampton’s contribution to the 75th anniversary of the arrival in the UK of the first influx of Caribbean nationals aboard the ship HMT Empire Windrush.

It arrived at the Port of Tilbury in London on June 21 1948 carrying 492 Caribbean migrants - many of them veterans of the Second World War. The ship and its passengers have a symbolic status as the start of the Windrush Generation.

The carnival, revived by Northampton Carnival & Cultural Arts in 2005, aims to deliver another high-quality event that promotes multi-cultural understanding and celebrates the creative and multicultural skills of Northamptonshire and its people.

Costumes

Performances Music

Northampton Carnival is an event for the whole family and continues to grow and develop over the years, attracting crowds of thousands of onlookers along the parade route and at the venue in Racecourse Park.

This year, the park will play host to a range of activities, including a funfair, food stalls catering for all tastes and palates, arts, crafts and the top local talent on the main stage.

And headlining the day is reggae and ska band Reggaematik, which has headlined shows in Holland, Belgium, and Poland. Their music is covers of reggae and ska hits from down the years.

“The community gets totally involved through participating in and attending what is undoubtedly the biggest summer event in Northampton,” says a NCCA spokesman.

Put the date Saturday 10th June in your diary to attend the Northampton Carnival at The Racecourse, Kettering Road, Northampton, NN1 4LG. You won’t want to miss this magical day … the perfect outing for the family!

Find out more at:

northamptoncarnival.co.uk

A warm and welcoming community...

From award-winning care provider Avery Healthcare, Squires Mews Care Home in Northampton offers residential, dementia and respite care in a home-from-home environment, giving families and friends peace of mind that support and care are available 24/7.

Squires Mews features 59 spacious bedrooms, each of which is equipped with a resident nurse call and information system. Residents can enjoy restaurant-quality dining, and a range of facilities including an on-site hair salon and barbers, cinema, and café.

Dedicated carers deliver the highest possible standards in senior living, and dedicated memory care suites reflect the sector-leading Avery model for people living with the many forms of dementia. Residents are supported to live life well in a calm environment that reflects the most up-to-date dementia care research.

Well-being co-ordinators produce a varied programme of activities and events in which residents are supported with personal interests not already covered in the calendar. Memory, physical and sensory-based activities are designed with therapeutic outcomes in mind, including trips out in the minibus, creative workshops, exercise classes and live entertainment.

As winners of Best for Nutrition, Food and Dining at the 2022 Care Home Awards, Avery Healthcare chefs pride themselves in producing nutritious meals for residents with varying needs and dietary requirements. All kitchens within the Avery group hold 5-star ratings from the Environmental Health, and Squires Mews is of the same exemplary level. Home Manager, Rebekah Perrin describes her vision of Squires Mews as “Becoming an outstanding home of which the Northampton community can be proud. We put residents at the heart of everything we do, and our home is the perfect place to enjoy your retirement years in a warm and welcoming environment.”

Recently, the team welcomed their neighbours for a complimentary cheese

and wine evening, with the opportunity for them to meet the friendly team and view the impressive facilities. The evening was a great success, with one visitor commenting, “The team worked their magic today. The home looked beautiful. The wonderful Home Manager Rebekah and her team made us all feel so welcome. I look forward to returning for another event soon.”

>> Call today to arrange a visit to the home, take a guided tour of the facilities with a member of the friendly team and meet the manager over a cup of tea.

To find out more, visit facebook.com/ SquiresMewsCareHome

Skilled Advocate and Negotiator Joins Specialist Family Law Team

Sills & Betteridge LLP welcome solicitor Lisa Churchill to its Northampton matrimonial team this month.

She joins the team to deal with divorce and separation cases involving complex financial issues including Armed Forces and public sector pensions and business and farming assets. She also has significant experience and an outstanding track record in contentious child arrangements matters including internal relocation and parental alienation.

Lisa qualified as a solicitor 11 years ago. She has spent most of her career in Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire law firms, where she was a member of Cambridge and District Law Society and chair of YRes. She continues to be a member of Resolution and adheres to its highly regarded Resolution Code of Practice which aims, where possible, to minimise conflict between parties.

Helen Derry, Partner and Head of Family Law at Sills & Betteridge, says: “Lisa combines exceptional technical knowledge of the law with astute advocacy and negotiation skills which make her an excellent fit for the firm’s matrimonial clients. She joins a very

strong team in Northampton who are going from strength to strength since we opened the practice there in 2018. The results they are achieving in not only matrimonial matters but complex care proceedings and domestic abuse matters already puts them among the highest quality lawyers in the area.”

Lisa adds: “I am excited to join as prestigious and progressive a firm as Sills and Betteridge and its highly regarded Family team. Like them, I am committed to guiding clients through the inevitable stress of relationship breakdown in a practical and empathetic way.”

Sills & Betteridge Family Team are currently in the ‘Top Tier’ of firms independently recognised by the Legal 500 (The World’s Leading Legal Directory) and were recently nominated for Family Law Firm of The Year [Midlands & Wales] in the Lexis Nexis Family Law Awards.

Sills & Betteridge Solicitors Northampton office: 2-4 Lower Mounts, Northampton NN1 3DE www.sillslegal.co.uk

Lisa Churchill

Gone but not fur-gotten: Protections for your pets

Pets are cherished members of the family, but what happens to them if something unexpected happens to us? Including your pet in your Will can provide peace of mind and ensure their well-being.

During the Coronavirus pandemic, the number of households owning a pet boomed. With a dedicated ‘Love Your Pet Day’ to Starbucks adding a ‘Puppuccino’ to their menu, it cannot be ignored the importance a pet has on our lives. For many families, pets are viewed as another family member.

But have you thought about putting protections in place for your pets in the event of your death?

Well, the first place to start is by making a Will!

Under English and Welsh law, pets are viewed as chattels which are moveable personal possessions. This means they hold the same legal status as your car, items of furniture and jewellery. Therefore, when contemplating where you would want your favourite item of jewellery to go on your death, you might also want to consider who would be responsible for your furry friend(s).

For many people, this would be a trusting family member or friend. However, it is worth keeping in mind that many charities offer

various rehoming schemes. For example, Cats Protection offer a Cats Guardian Service, Dogs Trust have created a Canine Care Card and Blue Cross have introduced a ‘Pet Peace of Mind’ service, to name but a few.

Alongside this, you may want to consider leaving a monetary gift for the maintenance of your pet. This could either be an outright cash legacy, for the trusted individual only in the event that they should care for your pet, or put into trust. A trust fund would be controlled by the Trustees, chosen by you, for the benefit of your pet. You can specify the amount and how this should be used.

In the event that you do not make a provision for your pet in your Will, it would be the responsibility, and financial burden, of your appointed Executors to arrange who should care for your pet. The costs of rehoming your pet could be taken from your estate. If you do not make a Will, then your pet would fall along with the rest of your estate via the intestacy rules, and the residuary beneficiary may not be the person you want it to be.

If you want to discuss any of the contents of this article with a member of our Private Client team, please get in touch on 0800 088 6004 after all, we are all the help you need.

Announced at an awards ceremony during the New York International Auto Show, the recognition came from a jury of 100 distinguished international automotive journalists representing 32 countries.

Having evaluated a broad range of vehicles from around the world, including many from established premium manufacturers, the judges’ recognition of Kia’s vehicles serves as further validation of the brand’s dedication to producing innovative mobility solutions that benefit society, in line with its ‘Movement That Inspires’ ethos.

Speaking of the award, President and CEO of Kia Corporation Ho Sung Song said: “To be recognised in this way by the World Car Awards’ judges is a tremendous honour. As Kia transforms to become a world-leading sustainable solutions provider, we are leaving no stone unturned to create vehicles which deliver exceptional practicality while also inspiring customers through their ingenuity, technology, and design. This latest prestigious accolade

Kia EV6 GT crowned World Performance Car of the Year 2023

range capability, spacious interior, and sophisticated design saw it beat stiff competition from more traditional petrol-powered sports cars.

provides further confirmation of the success of our strategy.”

Winning the coveted 2023 World Performance Car of the Year award, the Kia EV6 GT builds on the exceptional offering

of the standard model, which has already been awarded the 2022 European Car of the Year and the 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year titles, in addition to other distinguished accolades.

With a combined power output of 430 kW (577bhp), enabling a 3.5-second 0-62mph acceleration time and a top speed of 162mph, the all-electric EV6 GT’s long-

The design of the EV6 GT is in keeping with Kia’s new brand direction, which emphasises that movement is at the genesis of human development, enabling people to see new places, build new relationships, and have new experiences. Kia seeks to empower customers to make these connections by providing exciting products, innovative in-car spaces, and convenient services that inspire customers and free time for them to pursue the activities that they enjoy most.

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

The judges’ recognition of Kia’s vehicles serves as further validation of the brand’s dedication to producing innovative mobility solutions that benefit society.

Kia has achieved an outstanding result in this year’s World Car Awards, with the Kia EV6 GT being crowned the 2023 World Performance Car.

Wills and Probate?

Estate administration

Wills and Trusts

For straight talking advice call us on 01604 622101 Or e-mail us at advice@bmtclaw.co.uk

www.bmtclaw.co.uk

29 Billing Road, Northampton, NN1 5DQ

t 01604 622101

f 01604 230829

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA’s)

Contentious Probate

18 Brooklands Court

Kettering Venture Park

Kettering, NN15 6FD

t 01536 523434

f 01536 310138

Borneo Martell Turner Coulston Solicitors – simplifying

A celebration of rural life at Lamport Hall

Lamport Hall’s Festival of Country Life was always a popular element in their spring calendar. After a few years off, they are revamping and relaunching as Rural Life at Lamport Hall. Working alongside Hannington Vintage Tractor Club, they will be hosting a wonderful weekend celebrating rural life through the ages, from the days of horse-powered ploughing through steam and the rise of the tractor.

The event will be open on the May Bank Holiday Sunday the 28th and Monday the 29th and will be open from 10am-5pm.

The weekend promises to be full of something to delight all the family. There will be a full-size steam display vintage tractor show and working arena for the agricultural enthusiast. For the little ones, there will be a fairground and tractor rides and if you have four-legged family members, they can take part in a fun dog show. There will also be the opportunity to shop with tradestands and charity stalls or refuel with food stalls or at the beer tent.

Lamport Hall are also welcoming The Shire Horse Society with a display of Shire horses, the gentle giants who were so instrumental in the agricultural scenery. Animals in Mind do animal assisted therapy and education and will be bringing along their furry, scaly and eight-legged friends for visitors to meet. Hawkeye Falconry will also be doing a thrilling display on both days.

If you would be interested in trading at this event or you are a registered charity who would like a stall for fundraising and raising awareness, please contact Lucy on events@lamporthall.co.uk for more information.

Adult tickets are £12 and children aged 5-16 are £5. Under 5s go free. Tickets can be purchased on their website in advance or on the door.

Blackthorns Sun Club

A peaceful 15 acre woodland setting in which to spend the day, or bring a tent or caravan. Enjoy the heated pool, various sports, clubhouse, play area, sauna, BBQ, sun lawns & socials with meals & live music. Your membership will allow you unlimited attendance throughout the year. Feel at ease in a contained, safe environment, top up your Vitamin D levels and learn to relax. We have the naturist lifestyle for the whole family, just north of Bedford.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a lead. Please note, the house and gardens will be closed for the duration of the event.

The Hall and Gardens will be open as normal throughout May on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am-4pm.

Please visit www.lamporthall.co.uk for the most up-to-date information on the event and our Hall and gardens opening.

There will something for the whole family to enjoy during Rural Life at Lamport Hall

Northamptonshire homebuilder donates £1,500 to local health charity

Northamptonshire Health Charity has received a £1,500 donation from local homebuilder, Barratt Homes, to help it continue supporting local NHS hospitals.

The charity provides funding for staff development and training, along with funding the very best equipment and improving the general hospital environment.

Northamptonshire Health Charity supports both Northampton General and Kettering General Hospitals, as well as the community hospitals and mental health services under Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

With a mission to enhance patient care within all departments and wards across local hospitals, the charity plans to use the donation to help fund a new children’s play area for the children’s wards at Northampton General Hospital.

This donation came as part of the Barratt Developments Plc Charitable Foundation, which is designed to support national and local charities, large and small, across the UK to leave a legacy in the communities in which the housebuilder operates.

Alison McCulloch, Head of Fundraising at Northamptonshire Health Charity, said: “We

were thrilled when Barratt Homes contacted us to let us know we had been lucky enough to benefit from a donation. It means a lot to us that the charity has been thought of, and that we have been recognised as a good cause to make the most of the donation.

“The revenue received from the government pays for basic services and infrastructure at our hospitals, but if we want the latest cutting-edge equipment and treatments, then fundraising and donations are one of the only ways to achieve this.

“We will be putting this donation towards our new outside play area at Northampton General Hospital. It is really important for a child to be able to play while they are being treated at hospital. It is reassuring, familiar, and it enables children to express their feelings and anxieties.

“Barratt Homes’ Community Fund scheme is a great way to give back to the community, and also goes a long way to highlight what support is needed by charities locally.”

Simon Francis, Managing Director at Barratt Homes Northampton, said: “We are so pleased to be able to support Northamptonshire Health Charity and the important work it is doing.

It is important to us as a leading housebuilder to recognise and support local charities and organisations which help the communities near our developments.”

To find out more about Northamptonshire Health Charity, and the work it is doing, please visit northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk For more information about any of the Barratt Homes developments in the area, visit the website at barratthomes.co.uk

NORTHAMPTON

29 Billing Road Northampton

NN1 5DQ 01604 622101

KETTERING

18 Brooklands Court Kettering Venture Park Kettering

NN15 6FD 01536 523434 bmtclaw.co.uk

Reporting duties for a financial deputy

The role of a deputy is similar to that of an attorney. If you are acting as an attorney, this will be because the person you are acting for specifically chose you to act and they made a document called a ‘power of attorney’ at a time when they had capacity to do so.

A deputy on the other hand, is someone who has had to apply to the Court of Protection to act on behalf of someone who no longer has capacity. The Court of Protection takes the appointment of deputies extremely seriously, as it is important to ensure that the person applying to act is suitable.

A key way in which a deputy is held to a higher level of accountability than an attorney is by way of financial reporting.

‘If you are a financial deputy for someone, you will need to report annually to the Office of the Public Guardian,’ says Susan Owens, Senior Partner and head of the wills and probate team at Borneo Martell Turner Coulston.

‘This reporting includes providing a thorough and accurate account of all monies received and spent, as well as an explanation of any decisions you have made. To ensure compliance with the reporting duties, it is vital that you retain copies of all statements, receipts, invoices, and other such paperwork throughout the year.

What you should report and what evidence needs to be sent

The reporting documents include details of all assets and liabilities of the person for whom you are appointed as deputy, as well as the income and expenditure throughout the year. This should include any state benefits, any interest or other income payments from investments, as well as any other income received on behalf of the person for whom you are acting.

Expenditure may include such items as care costs, living expenses, food

and drink, activities, and ad hoc purchases.

In addition to financial information, you will need to state in the report what decisions you have made on the person’s behalf and explain your reasons for having made those decisions.

How to approach financial reporting

Whilst the report is only made at the end of each deputy year, it is advisable to collect paperwork throughout the year and collate this into a thorough record.

At the end of the deputy year, the report is due within two months. You should begin working on the report as soon as all the relevant information is available. If the two months are close to expiring despite all your best efforts, you must make sure that you apply to the Office of the Public Guardian for an extension. You will need to explain the reasons

for your request and when you anticipate being in a position to finalise and submit the report.

How we can help

The role of a deputy is a serious one that attracts strict requirements. Professional legal advice will help you ensure that you are aware of the legalities and that you report correctly and fully. Our solicitors can help you to be sure you have covered all the information required.

For further information, please contact Susan Owens on 01604 622101 or email susan.owens@bmtclaw. co.uk. Borneo Martell Turner Coulston has offices in Northampton and Kettering.

Borneo Martell Turner Coulston has offices in both Northampton and Kettering.

‘A deputy is someone who has had to apply to the Court of Protection to act on behalf of someone who no longer has capacity.’

Susan Owens Senior Partner and Head of the Private Wills and Private Client team

FRIDAY 12TH MAY

King Of Pop is led by the world’s greatest Michael Jackson tribute artist ‘Navi’, with his incredible live band and dancers.

Navi is the only tribute artist ever to be chosen by Michael Jackson himself. Michael personally gave Navi a standing ovation after he was invited to perform at one of MJ’s lavish birthday parties in Los Angeles. They remained friends, and due to Navi’s incredible resemblance to the star, Navi was regularly hired as an official body double and decoy to distract fans and press when Michael visited the UK.

BOOK NOW FOR LAST TICKETS!

Navi’s thrilling show will take you closer than ever imagined to an original Jackson concert. Don’t miss this outstanding production featuring hits such as Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean, Black or White, Man In The Mirror and the ‘Jackson Five’ classics in a show suitable for the whole family.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT

One of the most recognisable tribute bands in the world, SUPREME QUEEN continue to take things to a whole different level, with their homage to the halcyon days of one of the planet’s greatest ever rock bands.

Since their formation in the nineties, SUPREME QUEEN have played to hundreds of thousands of Queen fans across the world, headlining at major events including St. Tropez’s International Queen Convention, where they played to 10,000 people.

Scott Maley’s incredible vocal and visual resemblance to Freddie Mercury, fronting this remarkable band of musicians has seen SUPREME QUEEN become one of the most respected bands of their genre anywhere on earth.‘

BOOK YOUR TICKETS EARLY!

Tickets for each show: £27, seniors £25 Book

call 01536 414141

Coronation Celebrations

It’s time to get busy with the bunting as the nation prepares to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty The Queen Consort. You might choose to put your feet up and watch the historic occasion at home on the small screen, but if you want the company of others, there are many events happening across Northamptonshire. Here are a few of them...

Wednesday, May 3

The D-Day Darlings bring their Coronation Celebration Show to The Core at Corby, which they say is a song and dance extravaganza for all generations to enjoy. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there will be an explosive patriotic finale at the end of the performance too.

Tickets to see the Britain’s Got Talent finalists and nation’s sweethearts can be booked by tapping to thecorecorby.com

Friday, May 5

Get the historic weekend off to a perfect start with a Coronation Thanksgiving Service at St Andrew’s Church in Harlestone with bells, trumpets, organ and percussion, and of course a very warm welcome to all.

The hour-long event will begin at 7pm.

In Bugbrooke, a weekend of celebrations starts with a marquee event on the playing fields, with DJ Phillip Stone followed by the band Genius. Bar and food stalls will open from 7pm.

Saturday, May 6

Northampton Town Council will host a Coronation Celebration Community Festival on Guildhall Road, in the heart of the town (10am-4pm).

Community groups and performers will take attention, and there will be activities for children and collaborative workshops. Roaming entertainers and morris dancers will add to the festivities and Coronation coverage will be shown on big screens.

If hunger pangs strike, worry not – street food stands will take care of any rumbles. The collaborative event plans to champion the community, while also ‘paying tribute to the King’s commitment to support sustainability, biodiversity and the natural world.’

More details at northamptontowncouncil. gov.uk/coronation-celebrations

There is a big programme of events set for Bugbrooke to mark the special day. The bars will open at 10am at the Rugby Club and Football Club & Marquee, for those who want that mid-morning frothy moustache!

Tea, coffee and cake will be served at the community centre, and an art club exhibition will take attention.

You’ll have a choice of spots from where to view the Coronation, with a full day of things to follow; the events arena will open from 2pm with a pre-school Kings and Queens parade, Gymnastricks, Tug of War, and lots of traditional community fun, including Beat the Buzzer, Welly Wanging and Hook-a-Duck.

A tea dance and sing-along might be your thing, but little mites will also be catered for with a children’s disco and later still, live music will roll from The Raccoons and Chaos.

Disabled parking only in the Community Centre car park, with limited parking at the Football Club.

Full event details on FB

Search Bugbrooke’s King Charles III Coronation Celebration

The Paulerspury community is choosing to celebrate King Charles III’s big day with afternoon tea, with sandwiches and cake in the village hall (2pm-5pm).

Catch the D-Day Darlings’ Coronation Celebration Show at The Core at Corby on Wednesday, May 3

A licensed bar will also be open so you can toast the new King, and popping over for sandwiches won’t mean you miss the main event at Westminster Abbey – the Coronation will be shown on the big screen.

Tickets are £10 (adults), £6 (under 12’s) with all proceeds going towards the upkeep of the village hall.

Head over to ticketsource.co.uk to book or call 07789 995172

At Northampton Picturedrome, Boombastic’s Best of British Coronation Party is promising a ‘right Royal knees-up’ driven by the best in British hits from the 80s, 90s and 00s.

‘It’s the unofficial Coronation afterparty!’ organisers said, ‘We’re going all out with party hats, flags, streamers, confetti cannons and may even bring some cake!’

Your five hours of fun begin at 8pm. Tickets are £8 in advance at boomevents.co.uk/tickets

Sunday, May 7

St James Church in Thrapston will hold a service of thanksgiving for King Charles at 10.30am, which will be followed by coronation crafts for children. A bring and share lunch will then follow from around midday.

Delapre Abbey will be hosting a Coronation Big Lunch and After Party in its historic grounds on Sunday, May 7.

An invite is extended for residents from across West Northamptonshire to come together to mark the Coronation with a backdrop of live music and performance, activities and stalls (selling souvenirs), and an all traditional English picnic.

The National Coronation Concert will also be broadcast on a big screen.

The day will run from midday all the way through to 10.30pm, because let’s face it, it’s not often that we see a new monarch crowned! A big event deserves a big bash, and that’s precisely what organisers have in store for you. Tickets are free. Visit delapreabbey.org/events for details of how to get yours.

If you want to picnic without the hassle, you could purchase a picnic box from The Orangery at the Abbey for £30, which serves two. Visit delapreabbey.org/events

No public car parking will be available at the abbey, with the exception of blue badge holders.

A Coronation Celebration Big Lunch is being hosted on Braunston Playing Fields with family activities including a bouncy castle, live music and a face painter. Pack up a picnic, unfurl the blanket and chill. Hopefully the sun will shine on the event, which will run from midday until 3pm, but brollies at the ready as necessary. A little bit of the wet stuff won’t stop the fun! Please make a little contribution to the event on entry.

There are a host of events on in the area to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III and Her Majesty The Queen

Back in Bugbrooke, a Ceilidh/barn dance led by The Occasional Few will be a highlight, let your own vocals loose at the Songs of Praise session, and a big screen showing of the Coronation Concert will feature. The bars will be open from 1.30pm.

Tap over to Bugbrooke’s King Charles III Coronation Celebration on FB for more information.

Monday, May 8

A nice little Coronation related event will be taking place in the gardens of Canons Ashby (11am-2pm) for little creatives – with help from their grown-ups!

Take your little VIPs to the historic spot near Daventry and let them Decorate a Crown with flowers, leaves and other natural treasures.

The tranquil Tudor manor house and its terraced gardens is a spot of true beauty and the perfect place to enjoy a little family time, and this event will be housed in the paddock.

Usual admission prices apply, with a £2 charge for the activity. More details at nationaltrust.org.uk

St Katherine’s Gardens will be a focal point in Northampton for the Big Help Out

Today the gardens, which once housed the church of St Katherine, provide a walkway between the Bus Station and Horsemarket, and the plan is to turn the area into an attractive place for residents, town workers and visitors alike.

This improvement session is influenced by King Charles’ passion for sustainability, biodiversity and the natural world.

Volunteers will give the space a good tidy up, plant perennials, and prune flower beds. If all goes according to plan, it’ll be blooming great!

Find out more about the Coronation plans for St Katherine’s Gardens by digging deep at northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/ coronation-celebrations

What’s happening, when: The Coronation Weekend at a glance

The Coronation

On Saturday, May 6 The Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort will take place at historic Westminster Abbey in London, where the Archbishop of Canterbury will conduct the Coronation service. Later, The King and Queen Consort will be joined on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to bring the ceremonial events of the day to a close. Get your flags at the ready!

The Coronation Concert

A special Coronation Concert is being hosted at Windsor Castle on Sunday, May 7, which will be broadcast on television.

The Coronation Big Lunch

The same day, people around the country will partake in the Coronation Big Lunch, a chance for communities and neighbours to share food and company. Visit edenprojectcommunities.com/ the-big-lunch for more details on how you can take part.

The Big Help Out

Can you spare an hour of your time? As part of the Coronation festivities, members of the public are being invited to do something amazing; ‘Join in. Lend a hand. Make a change.’

Perhaps visit a neighbour who could benefit from your company, or get stuck in with one of the many charities who could use your support. It might be a little bit of your time, but it can make a world of difference to others. More details at thebighelpout.org.uk

Pic: Hugo Burnand, Buckingham Palace

The Canons Ashby Crown

This month our new king, King Charles III will be crowned, and so I thought it might be fun to look back at his very first crown as Prince of Wales, designed and made in Northamptonshire. It was of a controversial design, using untested techniques, and it was only just ready in time. Here’s the story of the Canons Ashby crown.

Over the centuries there have been several crowns made for the Prince of Wales. The earliest regalia included a crown, ring, rod and a mantle. In Tudor times for Prince Arthur, a sword and a girdle were added. In 1677, King Charles II specified

the design of the crown, declaring that the heir to the throne should wear a crown composed of Crosses and flowers de liz, with one Arch, and in the midst a Ball and cross. This design specification has been followed ever since.

In 1902 a new set of Welsh regalia was made for Prince Edward, also known as Bertie by the Royal Family. He became King Edward VIII briefly, before abdicating and becoming the Duke of Windsor. But it seems that when the abdicated King left for the USA, he took his Prince of Wales crown with him. It was only returned on his death in 1972, too late for the 20 year-old Prince Charles’s investiture

Words by Laura Malpas

Official portrait of Charles, Prince of Wales by Norman Parkinson

1969 Prince of Wales crown designed by Louis Osman

in 1969, so a new crown was needed. The Royal Society of Goldsmiths offered to make and donate the new crown to the Queen, who accepted gracefully.

In addition to following the design guidelines set in 1677, Prince Charles requested that it should be ‘a crown of our time’ rather than a throwback to the traditional design. The crown had to fit a man with natural hair and visible ears, rather than a regal wig as in the past. And it should be as light as possible for comfort.

Garrard, the official Royal Jewellers were considered too traditional in design for the avant-garde tastes of the young Prince Charles. The Goldsmiths’ Company chose something of a maverick in Louis Osman, an architect by training, who was not even a member of Goldsmiths. But he was a man of vision, with a fertile imagination fuelled by thorough research. His style had a natural simplicity and was often finished with a handmade look.

Louis Osman was not always an easy man to work with, deadlines meant little to him, and he paid little heed to the budget. He would acquire whatever materials he felt were necessary to the project he was working on, feeling little pressure to settle his bills. Despite his brilliance, his behaviour proved frustrating to many of his clients. Sir Anthony Wagner, Garter Principal King of Arms said ‘Osman’s work is beautiful; his personality at times presents difficulties’.

At this stage in his career, Louis, along with his wife Dilys a talented enameller, lived at Canons Ashby, a grand old Tudor manor house in Northamptonshire. They had leased the estate from the Dryden family who were living abroad at the time. The Osmans set up workshops throughout the house for all aspects of the production of gold and silver objects, including silversmiths, engravers, and enamellers. Dilys also installed her herd of Jersey cows, whose natural curiosity regularly found them exploring the Great Kitchen, and her Great Danes, who have left their claw marks on the Great Hall door to this day.

The commission was given to Louis in 1968, and he instantly set about researching and drawing sketches, and

commissioning a scale bust of Prince Charles’ head to ensure a perfect fit. The final design was accepted on 4th February 1969, leaving less than five months before the investiture on 1st July 1969.

The design was deliberately chosen to reflect the past, but also to focus on the present day.

As it was for a Prince, the crown has a single arch, with four crosses and fleurde-lys, with a central orb and cross as specified in 1677. The design includes seventy-five diamonds, and twelve small emeralds plus three larger square cut deep green emeralds, green being the National colour of Wales. The central

orb above the arch represents the world and is engraved with many symbolic elements including the Welsh Dragon, a Lion, and the Prince of Wales feathers. Surrounding the orb are delicate bands of sky-blue enamelled platinum with diamonds depicting the constellation of Scorpio, Prince Charles’s star sign. More diamonds representing the gifts of God and the deadly sins circumnavigate the globe. Even more diamonds adorn the central cross above the orb.

The material to be used was of course Welsh gold, hammered from the same nugget from which many royal wedding rings are made. The chosen finish was to be a natural buffed peach skin gleam rather than a shine.

Louis Osman at work in the Brew House, Canons Ashby, courtesy of the Goldsmiths’ Company

The Queen presents her son Charles, Prince of Wales

Platinum was also used for strength, and a new technique for applying enamel to it had to be invented by Dilys, something never seen before.

The challenge was to keep the crown light enough to be worn for an extended period. Previously crowns were made from hammering solid gold sheets, or cast, with the elements soldered together with the weighty gold polished to a high shine. Always innovating, Louis developed the idea of electroforming the crown. He made the crown in wax from which a resin mould was made. Then a gold solution was poured into the mould with an electrical current passed through it to deposit the gold onto the resin. This had been done before with silver, but gold was a new concept, taking much trial and error.

The difficulty was in electroforming the perfect sphere rendering it strong enough to be engraved. In the end a ping-pong ball was used as an inner mould, although Louis did try to keep this a secret. The ball remains inside the crown today. And unknown to Louis, the engraver added the initials of all who worked on the crown to the underside of the orb before it was attached.

Crown or Coronet?

Although referred to as a coronet, the Prince of Wales actually wears a crown. A crown is worn by monarchs and their heirs and have arches above the circlet. A coronet is worn by members of the nobility and has no arches.

The construction was time consuming and intense, as all the innovations had to go through trials before they could be used reliably. A few days before the investiture the crown was nearly ready and went to be hallmarked. Shockingly the delicate gold fractured during the process, and it had to return to Canons Ashby for repair. The crown was mended and successfully hallmarked just in time. The day before the ceremony Louis and Dilys hid the crown in its specially made box, placed it in the back of their battered and untaxed Land Rover under some hay bales and the Great Danes, and set off for Wales.

This was long slow journey of more than a hundred and seventy miles. They arrived much later than expected, causing a great deal of stress to the officials waiting anxiously at Caernarfon Castle. In response, Louis shook some hay at them from the Land Rover, and replied ‘Go, feed your unicorns’.

The following day the investiture took place in front of 4,000 invited guests. Charles made his vow to his mother the Queen, and he was presented with the golden rod, the mantle, sword, ring, and girdle, and then the crown with the purple silk velvet cap of state added inside.

The ceremony was watched on TV by 19 million in the UK and 500 million worldwide. The new crown gleamed and the diamonds sparkled. A modern crown for modern times.

This month sees Charles coronation as King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. He will be crowned with St Edward’s crown, made for Charles II coronation in 1661. It is the only time he will ever wear it. I wonder if he will wish he was wearing the lightweight crown made especially for him 54 years ago. And I also wonder if we will see Prince William wear his father’s crown, made in Northamptonshire, and if he does, perhaps the diamonds will be rearranged to show William’s star sign, Cancer.

God Save the King!

For more information about Louis Osman and the Canons Ashby Crown, read Louis Osman by Jenny Moore

ISBN 978 1 84114 490 0

The Northamptonshire Heritage Forum has something for everyone interested in learning more about our county’s history. If you would like more information, or are interested in joining the Forum and supporting its work, please visit www.northamptonshireheritageforum.co.uk

Louis Osman in the parkland, Canons Ashby

Coronation

The King’s Coronation

Are you ready for the big day?

Whether you’re hosting a street party or just looking for something to mark the occasion, this curated collection will have everything you need to commemorate the King’s official coronation on the 6th May!

Coronation bunting £27.95 nessafoyedesigns.co.uk

biscuit barrel £19.95

King’s Coronation plate £18 portmeirion.co.uk

celebration Bundle £65 paperstarlights.com

Jubilee party paper plates £4.99. Paper cups £4.49 gingerray.co.uk

Crown Jewels caddy £9.95 annabeljames.co.uk

Coronation paper cups £5 talkingtables.co.uk

Union Jack paper fancy dress glasses - 6 pack £6 talkingtables.co.uk

Union Jack luxury Merino throw/picnic blanket £169.95 annabeljames.co.uk

London Cushion cover £29.95 nessafoyedesigns.co.uk

Coronation party balloon arch decoration £17.99 gingerray.co.uk

Chocolate hot cross buns

Perfect to use any leftover chocolate from Easter, serves 6

INGREDIENTS

For the buns:

250g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting

5g salt

30g honey

2 tsp of dried yeast

20g unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg lightly beaten

60ml warm full-fat milk

60ml cool water

80g of mixed dark and milk chocolate

The zest of one orange - optional

1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the crosses:

35g plain flour

35ml water

METHOD

Method for a stand-up mixer:

Place the dry ingredients in a bowl of a stand-up mixer. With the paddle attachment, give a good mix to combine the ingredients fully.

Change the to the dough attachment. Add the butter, orange zest, egg, all the milk and half of the water and start combining on a low speed first, up to a medium to high speed until the dough moves away from the sides and is wrapped around the attachment.

Tip the dough onto a lightly floured surface, add your chocolate, and begin to knead until the dough starts to form a soft, smooth skin.

When your dough feels smooth and silky, put it back into the bowl and let it rise until doubled in size. Depending on the weather, this may take up to 2 hours or more.

Once the dough has risen, form a long salami shape and cut 6 dough balls. Shape into small rolls and place onto a baking tray to rise a second time. Place them quite close together so that when rising, will join.

Once they are ready, test them by pressing them lightly, they should spring back quickly.

For the crosses, mix the flour and water to a paste. Using a piping bag fitted with a fine nozzle, pipe crosses on the buns. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown in a preheated oven to 220°C/Gas 7.

Suggestion: for an alternative cross, you could make piping icing by combining icing sugar and orange juice or water to your preferred consistency.

Our recipes come from NN Pulse food writer, Sofia Gallo, an acclaimed local chef, food writer and teacher at Milton Keynes Cookery School. She has recently won the ICG Cooking Competition and was a contestant on BBC’s Masterchef.

Follow Sofia:

Instagram: @in_cucinacon_sofia FB: incucinaconsofia www.lamiacucina.co.uk

Win a pair of tickets for

BBC Gardeners’ World Live

At the height of the summer season, there’s no better time or place to indulge your love of gardening, see your favourite gardening experts and enjoy a day with friends and family, at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, from 15-18 June at the NEC, Birmingham. This year’s Show will be bursting with plenty of garden inspiration from the Show Gardens and Beautiful Borders, expert advice from Monty Don, Carol Klein, Adam Frost, Frances Tophill plus Alan Titchmarsh, live entertainment and the delicious BBC Good Food Show Summer

What’s more, there’s a Show-load of new features this year which aren’t to be missed. Joining the line-up on the BBC Gardeners’ World Live Theatre include Mr Plant Geek and Chris Collins of Garden Organic and previous Blue Peter Gardener. Don’t miss the new House Plant Hub with host Ellen Mary

and talks from Joe Bagley and more. Plus, drop into the new Let’s Talk Plants Stage with the gardening presenters and Sue Kent, who will share insights into her Beautiful Border at the show.

You’ll also be able to enjoy gardening advice alfresco in the Show Gardens, with expertise on the Liz Earle Beauty Co.’s Botanical Show Garden with their Ethnobotanist James Wong, to talks on grow-your-own at Lucy Hutching’s Secret Homestead Garden, with CloudGardenerUK, Stephanie Hafferty, Lydia Lakemoore and many more!

A haven of colour and scent, head to the Floral Marquee and discover new plant varieties from specialist growers at the new Hot Off the Potting Bench feature and be inspired by Ashwood Nurseries’ walk-through garden and a 40th anniversary display by Barnsdale Gardens

It’s the ultimate gardening day out! Book tickets today at bbcgardenersworldlive.com

For your chance to enter the draw for a pair of tickets to visit BBC Gardeners’ World Live on Sunday June, 18, answer this question: What is the name of Monty Don’s newest dog?

Email your answer to: nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

Subject: BBC Gardeners’ World Live along with your name, address and contact telephone number.

Closing date: Wednesday May, 31

Find new plant inspiration in the Floral Marquee

Monty Don and his fellow Gardeners’ World presenters will be on hand at the show

Stop intruders with the highest level of security

With burglary rates on the rise during the cost of living crisis in Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes, what can you do to help stop unwanted intruders? When it comes to securing your home, the most likely place for burglars to attack are your through your windows and doors, where older products are easily accessible.

You never know what kind of danger may lurk around your neighbourhood, and having peace of mind when it comes to your home security is essential to keeping your family safe. Luckily, there are tested products and services who recognise the importance of security in the home and offer only the highest level of security which includes police approval. Statistics show that homes with no security

So why is Window and Door security so important?

SBD is especially important because it has stringent burglar tests that must be met before the company’s products - like doors and windows - can be considered for police preferred specification. It means that you can be certain that your door or window installation is of the highest quality with the best security measures in place.

Luckily, leading manufacture and installer T&K Home Improvements has a wide range of ultra secure Doors and Windows that can provide you with the best protection for your home.

For instance, they have multi-point, bi directional, stainless steel locking mechanisms that are installed into all their doors and windows to exceed the specification required. All of their locks have undergone extensive testing to ensure that they meet police approvals which include

Anti-Bump, Anti-Drill, Anti-Pick and Break Secure technology.

T&K Home Improvements also offer other additional security measures, such as double or tiple-glazed, laminated windows that add an additional layer of security as well as insulation and soundproofing. Their team of experts can provide you with advice how you can secure your home, and lower your energy bills in one go.

Additionally, their focus on providing their customers with only the best security solutions has earned them an excellent reputation throughout the area. So, why not make your home security a top priority and get in touch with T&K Home Improvements today?

T&K have a stunning outdoor showroom in Wellingborough with 13 Living spaces demonstrating their full range of products. Visit www.tkhi.co.uk to find out more.

measures in place are five times more likely to be burgled than those that do, and having extra security measure will also help with the rising cost of home insurance too. Therefore, it’s crucial to have the right security solutions in place to protect your home, belongings, savings and your family.

When considering new Windows and Doors always look for the Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative in the UK, accreditation. This system is designed to help reduce crime and promote safer living. Always remember to check online that any company claiming has the accreditation on their website, for complete peace of mind

T&K have a stunning showroom based at Wellingborough so why not come on down and take a look at some ideas in real life? Visit www.tkhi.co.uk/find-showroom to book your appointment today.

Is Solar Energy The Right Choice For Me?

With growing concerns about our carbon footprint, and energy prices continuing to rise, many homeowners are turning to solar energy to help power their homes and protect themselves against inflation.

Asolar energy system is made up of panels, which harness energy from the sun, inverters, which convert the current from DC to AC so it’s usable in your home, and battery storage, so energy generated during daylight hours is used in the evening, when more people are likely to be home. Excess energy is then fed back into the grid for which you may receive a small payment from one of the energy companies.

If saving money is your priority, the ideal system is one which minimises electricity used from the grid, and maximises the use of energy generated by the installation. If your aim is to help save the planet from carbon emissions you may want to have as large a system as possible, given the roof size, whatever your own energy usages needs are.

Therefore, it’s important to understand your requirements, current usage, and preferred outcomes in order to specify the best solution and work out potential savings and benefits.

Custom Solar is part of the Custom Glaze group providing energy efficient home improvements for nearly 42 years.

Custom Solar’s MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) installations provide a complete energy solution for your specific roof. MCS is a ‘must have’ for your installation in order to be paid for any excess electricity fed back into the National grid.

Our products, from leading manufacturers, carry some of the longest guarantees available, and ensure high energy yield maximizing return on investment. We work out the size, orientation

and angle of your roof and factor in obstructions or shading, in order to design a system to meet your needs and to work out the cost and likely savings.

We obtain all necessary permissions and certification on your behalf and organise our scaffolding, roofing and electrical experts to complete your installation.

For a free quote call Custom Solar on 01908014566 or visit www.customsolarmk.co.uk

home

DIGGING DEEP

Our perennial favourites

Sharing knowledge is always a positive, and gardening is a prime example of an activity where communal learning leads to greater satisfaction. Unless of course, you are trying to cultivate a prize-winning specimen for a competition!

When it comes to flowers, The Hardy Plant Society (HPS) is a nationwide charity which promotes the joy of herbaceous plants, and the society’s roots are all over, with more than 40 groups in all, including locally in Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire.

It exists for people who love hardy perennials for their variety, colours, shapes, sizes and longevity, and also has a number of interest groups, such as Geranium and Galanthus. Members support each other to grow better examples, and different species.

Margaret Pateman, from Northampton, is well invested in the HPS – she has been a member for 35 years.

What drew you to perennials?

“The fact that many hardy herbaceous plants are deciduous means they disappear for several months at different times of the year in their dormant state, and even the evergreen ones tend to look a bit ragged in the ‘off’ season.

“Whether they are dormant in the summer or the winter, there’s a feeling of anticipation when looking for the first green shoots, and signs the plants are still alive - the excitement when an old favourite is seen to be emerging from the soil!

“There’s just as much pleasure attached to the expectation as there is to the actual flowering spectacle, and if things don’t go as well as they might, perhaps due to marauding slugs or heavy feet, there’s always next year to look forward to,” Margaret told Pulse.

“There is an amazing variety of scents and colours and most can be grown from seed, cuttings or division. Most people have

How does your garden grow?

As things warm up, our crops start to get a thirst too, so remember to water tomatoes, cucumbers and courgettes in the greenhouse to avoid disappointment later on.

Tomatoes, or the lack of them on some supermarket shelves, have been making headlines recently, but if you grow your own, you’ll already know they are so much more flavoursome and juicier than those that are shop bought, and you’ll not need to worry about the little red fruit disappearing from your plate!

The first Sunday in May is International Dawn Chorus Day – what an incentive to get up early! This is a good time to hoe young weed seedlings off and leave them to dry later in the sun.

different favourites depending on the time of year, and are only too pleased to propagate them.” With so many possibilities, which is Margaret’s favourite of all the perennial flowers?

“To choose a favourite is like trying to choose a favourite child, impossible, but if I could only have one, it would probably be the taller Phlox, Phlox paniculata and various hybrids,” she decides, “Not only are the flowers lovely and have a long season with different varieties, but they smell absolutely gorgeous! If only I could find it made into a perfume. I once saw a hummingbird moth with a white Phlox and it was a perfect picture.”

You must belong to the national society in order to join the regional groups.

Perhaps you like the idea but are apprehensive about being the new flower in the bed, so to speak. Worry not, says Margaret –dig in and grow your confidence.

“Apart from at shows, gardening is not competitive and most people are only too happy to give beginners the benefit of their wisdom and help out with both advice and plants,” she promises.

> Plant the seed: hardy-plant.org.uk or visit FB: @hpshome

The Northamptonshire branch meets on the first Saturday of each month from 2pm, at Moulton Community Centre. Contact northants@hardy-plant.org.uk

The Buckinghamshire arm is hosted at East Claydon and Botolph Claydon Village Hall. Email bucksandoxon@hardy-plant.org.uk

We will sow courgettes in pots and short rows of fast maturing salad crops between slower growing crops such as onions, and will sow French and runner beans in raised beds. Later in the month, salad-leaf plug plants will be planted.

Some of the tomato plants will be raised in grow bag compost in large plant pots and others will be grown in a raised bed. Both will have a general fertiliser added, and some well-rotted manure, if we can get any! One or two growing bags will be used to grow early potatoes, to be harvested before the summer holiday.

After a slow start, the broad bean plants will have their tops pinched out, to encourage bushier plants and avoid blackfly infestation. Elsewhere, daffodils and tulips will be deadheaded, leaving the foliage to die down and feed the bulbs.

Sweet peas must be planted out in big pots or in the open garden with a support structure of stakes, branches or twigs, using soft garden twine to attach the stems.

Feed the lawn but remember ‘No Mow May’ to let bee-friendly lawn wildflowers bloom.

Let this be your contribution to rewilding! Listen, if you can, to the loud humming noise of a flying cockchafer beetle, which are now a rarity.

Spend all the time you can in the garden this month.

Ralph Westmoreland, Denton & District Gardening Club member

> Denton & District Gardening Club is a small, friendly club which meets on a Monday evening every month. New members and visitors are always welcome. For more information please contact Margaret at m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk or 01604 890875.

Phlox Paniculata Peppermint Twist- Pic HPS

Phlox Paniculata Rembrandt pic - HPS

Pic: Phil Scarboro

‘It’s made such a difference for all of us’

When you’re updating your bathroom, naturally the style of shower, basin and tiles are important. But there may be structural work needed too –AHM Installations can do it all.

For example, you might want to create more space by removing a wall. If you wanted a more powerful shower the electric cables could need updating. Or a floor might need taking up to examine the pipework.

AHM Installations does all types of renovation work to ensure that your bathroom is safe, that it meets regulations and that it works for you.

The Booth family wanted their downstairs study and toilet knocked together to form a large wetroom for their father. This may sound like a job for

a builder, but AHM had all the skills and experience needed.

“We created a completely new space from scratch”, said Charles Weeks, Bathroom Surveyor at AHM.

The dividing wall was knocked down, a new ceiling was put in and the light switches were moved to make the room easy for Mr Booth to use.

The family are delighted. “It’s made such a difference to Dad and to all of us. AHM is an absolutely wonderful company – we couldn’t recommend it more.”

AHM is a family-run accessible bathrooms firm that takes the hassle out of organising the tradespeople you need for the job. All our fitters are members of BIKBBI which means they are DBS checked and fully insured. Call us on 01908 850377 to discuss your needs.

AHM is a family-run accessible bathrooms firm that takes the hassle out of organising the tradespeople you need for the job.

Designing for the future

As we become increasingly environmentally conscious, sustainable interior design grows in popularity. The focus of sustainable interior design is to reduce the negative impact that human activity has on the environment, while creating beautiful and functional spaces. The goal is to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also socially responsible and environmentally friendly.

One of the most important aspects of sustainable interior design is the use of eco-friendly materials and products. The materials used should be non-toxic, recyclable or recycled, and sustainable. This means using materials that are renewable, such as bamboo or cork, and avoiding those that are not, such as plastics. Products should be chosen for their durability and longevity, to reduce waste and promote greener living. Consider the current conflict in fast fashion. Cheaper, mass-produced items have a short life cycle and haven’t been made with the environment in mind. Spending a bit more money on a piece that will have longevity will earn its money back, while also leaving a more environmentally friendly footprint behind. Choosing trends which have a timeless look rather than satisfying a fleeting moment in fashion will also be more beneficial to a sustainable lifestyle.

One example of sustainable interior design is the use of reclaimed wood. Reclaimed wood is wood that has been salvaged from old buildings, furniture, or other sources. It is an eco-friendly alternative to newly harvested wood and can add character and uniqueness to a space. Enlist a cabinet maker, carpenter or joiner to restore an old dining table, potentially giving it a new lease of life by sanding it back and staining it or by applying oil or wax to it. If you are feeling like taking on a challenge yourself, then restoring furniture from the 50s, 60s and 70s (such as Ercol and G-Plan) can be very rewarding. Updating door handles on a sideboard or reupholstering dining chairs, can help breathe new life into pieces by giving them a contemporary update.

Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262

Furniture and accessories are essential components of any home. If you must buy new, try to avoid synthetic materials which can release harmful chemicals into the environment. There are many more options available on the market today than in previous years, especially when it comes to buying carpets and rugs. Natural backings and bamboo fibres will help avoid some chemicals. Bamboo is a very sustainable material when compared to cotton, wool and acrylic as it grows quickly and needs much less water to be processed. However, in carpets and rugs it comes with a price tag to match! Look for furniture made from natural materials, such as solid wood, bamboo or rattan, rather than laminate finishes and cheap processed wood which can splinter and break more easily. Rattan was a staple aesthetic in the 1970s giving furniture a bohemian style, a look which has come back into fashion over the last few years. You don’t have to search far to be provided with plentiful options for rattan side tables, headboards, dining chairs and bookshelves. With rattan objects likely to be available from vintage shops, you may not even have to buy new.

You could consider decorating your home using recycled glass or metal. This not only reduces waste but can also add a unique and creative textural element to your interior. Not everyone wants bold splashes of pattern and colour. If that’s you, and you hanker after a more sustainable existence, then make such a statement in your home using a striking recycled metal sculpture or a repurposed set of glass vases.

Lighting is another crucial aspect of sustainable interior design. By using energyefficient lighting, such as LED bulbs, you can

Stephanie Harvey, unsplash

Alyssa Strohmann, unsplash

Josh Hemsley, unsplash

Mmicheile Henderson, unsplash

reduce your energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint. Natural light can be used to reduce energy consumption further. Large windows, glass doors or skylights can help to bring natural light into a space and reduce the need for artificial lighting. Light tubes are a further way to achieve natural light in a space with few or no windows. A reflective tube is connected from the ceiling of the room to the roof, enabling the natural light to cascade in through the pipe. Re-covering or replacing an existing lampshade can prevent an old light fitting going to waste, as you can easily update the existing shade to suit your new décor.

For an extra step in creating a home that runs as sustainably as it looks, consider water conservation. Low-flow toilets, taps, and shower heads can be installed to reduce water consumption, even something as simple as a brick placed in the cistern can reduce the amount of water required to fill the unit each time. Additionally, rainwater systems can be installed to capture and use rain in place of turning on the tap, either in the garden or for some of your household water such as in toilet cisterns.

Reducing waste is another crucial aspect of sustainability within the home. This can be achieved by using reusable products, such as cloth napkins and beeswax food wrap, and avoiding single-use products, such as paper towels and plastic clingfilm. Additionally, incorporating recycling and composting into the design of a new kitchen or utility room must be made a priority - reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills, whilst keeping the bins hidden away from view, can only be a good thing! Ensure you have adequately labelled bins for each different type of refuse, and check with your local council on what you can and cannot recycle. Ask if they collect compostable kitchen waste – many do. Alternatively, a garden compost heap is a great way to avoid any vegetable offcuts and trimmings going to landfill. The compost can be used in your own garden to provide natural nutrients for your flowerbeds.

Sustainable interior design is not only good for the environment but can also create beautiful and functional spaces. By choosing eco-friendly materials and products, reducing water usage, improving indoor air quality, and reducing waste, you can promote sustainable living and create a healthier and more environmentally responsible home.

Contemporary art inspired by London

We are always thrilled to explore works which capture our capital city, with each artist brings their own perspective and focus to these familiar scenes. Let’s take a look at four cityscape artists and explore how the city has inspired their work.

Alena Carvalho, who was born and raised in Prague but has lived in the UK for over 20 years, describes her style as “Impressionistic realism, if there is such a style.” She aims for a fairly realistic portrayal, but with some flexibility to ensure she captures the atmosphere, mood and light of the place.

Alena’s pieces often include the double deckers and black cabs which are iconic, not to mention architecture and places we’ll recognise such as Big Ben, St Paul's and the South Bank. Within these scenes, however, she uses the light and weather (with rain playing a prominent role in many of her works) to explore different feelings and tones.

Tom Butler introduces mixed media into his work, using the texture and words within his cuttings to tell stories of places and the people within them.

Tom describes London’s charm and bustle as a place ‘you could never tire of returning to’ Deliberately bringing us back to places we know, such as Piccadilly Circus with its fleet of red buses, we are then drawn into the place to explore the detail within it, such as the ‘Roar’ of the lion in his painting Brolly Good.

We love the narratives Tom shares, creating details and characters in places we love, knowing that each time we return we’ll find something new.

Award-winning artist Jo Quigley says her “inspiration comes from life itself” more recently becoming fascinated with people in an urban environment.

While Jo’s art presents some familiar views, including the London South Bank and Thames; in her paintings, the city is a background for the lives and stories she presents for us to explore. Using colour, light and particularly shadow, we are experiencing the capital alongside her subjects, drawn into their moments.

Like many of our favourite artists, the beauty of Jo’s work is its ability to pull you into a story,

encouraging you to take time within the scene and get to know its characters.

Samantha Ellis is an artist from our own home town; born in Northampton she now lives and works in Cambridgeshire but has consistently drawn inspiration from the capital. Having fun with recognisable designs, she uses Big Ben, black cabs and red RouteMaster buses to inspire, and bring her own energy to her pieces.

Developing her paintings of London, Samantha starts with a photograph but the final work takes as much from her own imagination with dribbles, splats and a bold colour palette. While her representation may not be an accurate depiction, there is no doubting the influence of the place.

Samantha’s London cityscapes reflect the design and personality of the capital as well as her own style, they show us a place she loves and bring us some of her effervescent joy.

London art will always be popular, telling timeless stories of a vibrant city. If you would like to explore more of our cityscape paintings please get in touch.

Celine Lee Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk

Summer in Covent Garden, Alena Carvalho

Brolly Good, Tom Butler

Embankment, Jo Quigley

Playing for Time, Samantha Ellis

Svitlana, unsplash

‘We turned the key and the Rolls Royce just went...’

A gig by The Blockheads is always to be celebrated, but their return to The Roadmender this May is to be savoured that little bit more –because after a tough couple of years, Ian Dury’s band had asked themselves, ‘Can we continue?’

Sammy Jones talked to Blockhead Micky Gallagher about getting back in the saddle and giving music fans reasons to be cheerful again...

The pandemic put more than a spoke in the band’s wheel; it cancelled everything.

“2020 was gonna be our year and we had all our ducks in a row. It was gonna be our best year since we’d been without Ian and to just have to cancel the gigs, it was shocking,” keyboardist Micky recalls.

And when things were returning to some semblance of normality the band was hit by another blow when their longtime frontman Derek Hussey passed away.

Devastated, and with the band unable to play live, Micky (whose long list of other credits include time working with The Animals and The Clash) admits he considered pulling the plug: “It was just not sustainable not to do any work and keep the thing going.”

But Blockhead Chaz Jankel had a pal who fancied making use of the mic, and the band decided to get together for a play – their first for three years.

“It was a one off to see what happened. We went off to Bedford where we have our equipment and rehearsal facility. We got together and turned the key and the Rolls Royce just went...it was really remarkable after three years. It really felt good so we thought let’s go out and try it.”

Mike Bennett is now filling the space vacated by Derek, although filling is the wrong word. Because, much like Derek’s predecessor Ian Dury, some people are simply irreplaceable.

“Losing Derek was shocking, it took a while to get over it. We were still mourning when we got back together, but we knew if we didn’t do something we’d have to just collapse everything, and once you do that it’s very hard to get back again.

“Mike is very good and he’s putting himself into it and we’re all for that. We appreciate what he’s doing and it’s brought us all back together. It has given us a breath of fresh air.

“It’s about capturing and interpreting Ian’s

lyrics – they are beautiful lyrics, one doesn’t have to do too much more than deliver that lyric; recite the lyric, sing the lyric, it’s all in the lyric, you know...”

With their unique blend of sounds and lyrically suss musings, The Blockheads never quite fitted in anywhere, and yet they got everywhere.

“We’ve always been in a field of our own,” Micky says, “I think Ian was the most incongruous pop star of the time. We started on that foot and we never went onto the other foot.

“We came up in the punk era but we were never an out-and-out punk band. Ian’s attitude and lyrics leant towards that, but he always made sure he had competent musicians and writers around him and we developed our own style. As you say there was no-one else around

Micky Gallagher on stage with The Blockheads in Milton Keynes, pic: Trev Earl

us doing it, and there’s no-one else done it yet the same way that Ian did.

“We have a historical background that serves us well, because you can’t pigeonhole us really...it’s sort of funk punk.”

If this band was anything other than exceptional it could be shambolic. Instead, there is an untouchable fluidity.

“It could be trite,” Micky agrees, “... it could be a very bad copy of the original, but we never find that it is. The playing is so absorbing and the band has been together so long that we have an empathy, obviously. And the chills onstage - even though we are old geezers now, we are spring chickens when we go on stage!”

The fans are certainly on side, too.

“They rise to the occasion and lift the band every night. More so I find now there is a need for entertainment out there. I think the world is in trauma and gigs are the things that bring back community and people can get with their own.”

Doesn’t it still seem odd that at a time when you could go out and eat two-for-one to ‘help the economy’ you couldn’t go to watch live music?

“The restrictions meant we couldn’t go out and play and were just kicking the can down the road for a year and a half. Flattening the curve was a big lie. It’s total gas lighting and it’s shocking. We have a calibre of politicians now whose morals are trumped by expediency.”

The world lost the genius of Ian Dury more than two decades ago. Makes you wonder what he would be writing if he were here now, doesn’t it?

Micky gives a knowing laugh: “In many ways, even though Ian was what they call a punk and a rebel, he was very establishment at the same time, especially with the medical business, because he felt that the medical side saved his life and you couldn’t argue with that. But I think he would have had a bit of an eye up as to what’s gone down over the last three years.

“Trust has been eroded really badly.”

There were really some dreadful errors, weren’t there?

“Don’t get me started,” he warns, but we already have, “I don’t think we’ll ever be back to normal, the future’s not what it used to be. Don’t kid yourself. We all know that was just a little test to see how high everyone can jump.

“I think we’ve got to say ‘What do we want the future to be?’ Don’t let people tell us what our future should be.”

Everyone knows The Blockheads for their singles Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick, What A Waste, Reasons to Be Cheerful , Pt.3), but they are much more than the sum total of those. They are the musicians’ band, if you like; when their New Boots and Panties album was re-recorded in 2001 (cunningly titled Brand New Boots And Panties) the pedigree of performers queuing up to sing was awesome – Gallagher’s past collaborator Paul McCartney, Pogues man Shane MacGowan, Robbie Williams, Madness

and Wreckless Eric just some of the varied names who made it onto the disc.

“We were very honoured that the artists came forward and wanted to be part of it and express themselves on our material...”

But you can’t win ‘em all, and there has been some friction; a stateside tour supporting Lou Reed being a famous example. Safe to say they didn’t hang out at hamburger joints together.

“We were negatively or positively charged and repelled each other,” Micky laughs, “It was really Ian and Lou, there seemed to be an attitude about the place, a resentful thing that was happening for no reason. I think it was part of Lou’s act and part of Ian’s act and they just hooked into that thing and never a word was exchanged on the whole tour.

It was very strange, they were the sort of American punks and we were the English punks of the day so there was that dynamic.”

Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood rocked up to see The Blockheads in LA on that tour – and repaid Lou for the negativity he’d shown by detuning his guitar pre-show.

“Yeah, that was good, it was like ‘How dare they ignore the band?’”

The music industry has changed beyond all recognition in the time that The Blockheads have been around. It used to be about issues, awareness, shouting about stuff and spreading the word with flyers and boxes of vinyl. It was about real passion. Now? It’s about image and twitter stats. Forget ‘Where’s the party?’ It’s a case of ‘Where’s the music?’

“We’re a generation where music was relevant and was a reflection of the culture, and everyone understood what it was about,” Micky says, “Now it’s so disseminated in the many different charts and facets and it’s not about music anymore, it’s about selling some sort of ideology.

“Music will never be relevant as long as it’s doing that.

“We used to listen to songs and artists and they used to point true north. It doesn’t anymore which is a shame.

“We’re not as relevant, music in general is not as relevant,” he realises, “They can play the game, have the flashy videos and productions and go viral and whatever, but it’s not about music anymore.

“The Blockheads is still about music, that’s all we talk about, that’s what we do.”

> The Blockheads play Northampton Roadmender on Saturday, May 13.

To book tickets visit theroadmender.com

The Blockheads is still about music, that’s all we talk about, that’s what we do.”

Micky captured on stage with The Animals at Bedford Corn Exchange, pic: Trev Earl

Sammy with The Blockheads in 2016

The late Derek Hussey, pic: Trev Earl

Sailing solo, James Walsh visits The Black Prince W

e’ve taken great pleasure in watching Milton Keynes trio Torus evolve; seeing them gain in confidence with each successive gig over the past couple of years, and listening when they committed some of those monster tunes to disc for their 2022 EP, Sail.

Torus are on the rise and rise, and the six legged-beast, founded and fronted by multi-instrumentalist Alfie Glass, are an exciting live proposition.

It’s good news for ‘fampton music lovers with a penchant for artists like desert disciples Kyuss, early QOTSA and the storming riffs of Sabbath, because the band – completed by bassist Harry Quinn and drummer Jack Orr – all share a passion for those artists which shines through.

Self-styled British grunge-pop players Dude Safari are signed up to support when they play The Black Prince on May 5.

Worth A Shot will open the show. Fans of Weezer and Royal Blood might find favour with their deliveries, and they’ll have something tangible for you imminently; their debut album YUSSUS is on its way.

A day later, psychedelic power trio Black Helium (May 6) will hold court.

The Londoners ‘traverse aural hallucinatory soundscapes; from detuned Neanderthal

rock to deep oceans of introspective blissed out psychedelia.’

If trippy, heavy and intoxicating noise is your go to, you’ll want to go to this. Support comes from One Way Ticket

Mad Mods and Englishmen are bringing the soundtrack to your extra Bank Holiday with a Sunday (May 7) night session of covers that will get you all fired up before they bring the house down.

Hits from The Who, Small Faces, The Kinks, The Stones and the Yardbirds will figure among the setlist. French Boutik will warm up the stage first.

Before the month end SBD promotions has one more date for you to devour; and it’s a night in the company of Starsailor frontman James Walsh

With Starsailor, James has supported artists including The Rolling Stones, The Police, The Killers and U2.

Starsailor’s most recent elpee was issued in 2017, but when not working with the band, James has cultivated a nice solo career as a solo singer-songwriter and has written with the

FFSYTHO?! makes Glasto shortlist

We’re keeping fingers crossed for grime ace FFSYTHO?! who has made it through to the shortlist for this year’s Emerging Talent competition - and the winner will bag a spot at the Glastonbury Festival this summer.

Thousands of artists entered the competition, and a panel of industry judges whittled those entries down to a long list of 90. That list then became nine, and FFSYTHO?! is sitting pretty on it.

The competition final is happening this Saturday (April 29). The winner will take a slot on one of the main stages at Glasto, and a £5,000 Talent Development prize. Two runnersup will each take a £2,500 prize.

superb Suzanne Vega (recently on stage in the town at the Derngate), Professor Green, Eliza Doolittle and Melanie C. Not content to leave it there, this powerhouse of creativity has turned his hand to movie soundtracks too. Oh, and he’s just issued a new solo release, Coming Good

This ‘fampton date comes hot on the heels of the announcement that Starsailor will tour in November and December to mark the 20th anniversary of their second, lauded Gold-certified album, Silence is Easy, which spawned singles Silence Is Easy and Four To The Floor. It was also the last album produced by Phil Spector.

Starsailor will release new music in 2024. Support is coming from alternative singersongwriter Charlotte Carpenter, a lady who has been championed on air by Tom Robinson over on BBC 6, and will ready her debut album before the year end, thanks to some funding from Help Musicians UK.

> Go grab tickets for your choice(s) at sbdpromotions.com

Coronation day crescendo

Grunge rock trio Liliths Army will be live at the Charles Bradlaugh in Northampton on Saturday, May 6.

The band will be using the Coronation day show as their official single launch bash for the track, Sick of It.

Sylvie, Tommy and Sam will be joined in play by Northampton’s Skybeard and their ‘brooding, riff based, groovy-heavy and proggish instrumental stuff.’

This show will be the first time that Skybeard has been on the stage for three long years, so give them a warm welcome.

Good Fridays will open the billing, and postshow the Mix Tape DJs will keep the sounds rolling through to 1am.

Mad Mods & Englishmen will set you up for the Bank Holiday (below left), all eyes on Black Helium (below right) and coming to the ‘fampton - Starsailor’s James Walsh (inset)

Monster tunes from Torus at The Black Prince

#WhatsOnPulse

The D-Day Darlings:

King’s Coronation Celebration Show

Wednesday, May 3, 7pm

The nation’s sweethearts who wowed us on Britain’s Got Talent are back with a brand new show in celebration of the King’s Coronation – and it comes with a particularly patriotic finale!

Class for the Coronation: thecorecorby.com

The Toasters

Wednesday, May 3

One of the true second wave of ska bands from the US, who came together in New York more than 40 years ago. One slice or two: thecraufurdarms.com

Spear of Destiny

Thursday, May 4

Stalwart British rock band fronted by Kirk Brandon visit Milton Keynes to pull songs from their extensive 37 year career - expect to hear numbers including Liberator, Mickey, Rainmaker and Never Take Me Alive. Age of Unreason: thecraufurdarms.com

The Picturedrome Comedy Club

Thursday, May 4, 7pm

Find the funnies with Roger Monkhouse, Jen Brister, Kwame Asante and James Cook. This horse walked into a bar: thepicturedrome.com

Celebrate! Music for the Coronation

Friday, May 5, 7.30pm

Kickstart a weekend of celebrations with the Alina Orchestra who will be in concert at the Church of St Peter and St Paul in Newport Pagnell. Polymnia Chamber Choir and soprano Jessica Wise will join them. Hilary Davan Wetton is your musical director. Coronation Celebration: alinaorchestra.com

Torus

Friday, May 5

Promising rock trio bring the noise to Northampton’s Black Prince hub. Did It Again: sbdpromotions.com

Best of British Coronation Party

Saturday, May 6, 8pm-1am

Celebrate the Coronation of King Charles at The Picturedrome with the best tunes from the 80s, 90s and 00s. Flags, streamers, confetti canons and cake will be on the menu.

Royal knees-up: thepicturedrome.com

Coronation Party at MK Museum

Monday, May 8

Gather your family, friends and neighbours and head to the Wolverton-based history hub to celebrate the start of King Charles III’s reign. Entry is free. Crowning glory: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Fly the flag - The D-Day Darlings visit Corby

Richard Hardisty brings Silly Boy to town this May

Fran McGillivray Band

Tuesday, May 9, 7.30pm

Compelling blues trio with a strong following on the scene who have developed a unique take on roots music visit Bletchley Blues Club.

Still got the blues: bletchleybluesclub.uk

James Walsh

Friday, May 12

Join the singer-songwriter with Starsailor as he steps out solo in the intimate confines of The Black Prince. Charlotte Carpenter is also on the billing. Way to Fall: sbdpromotions.com

Richard Hardisty

Friday, May 12, 8pm

Join Richard on his intimate and highly anticipated debut tour when Silly Boy calls in at Northampton Underground, with anecdotes and observations about movies, missing dads and mania. Finding the funny: royalandderngate.co.uk

The Blockheads

Saturday, May 13

One of the best live bands you will ever see. And we mean it. Musicality, cheekiness and songs so well formed that most bands could only dream of delivering anything anywhere close. The Roadmender beckons. Oi Oi: theroadmender.com

History Festival at MK Museum

Saturday, May 13 & Sunday, May 14

The return of the popular family event taking visitors through the centuries – from the Romans to WWII.

If I could turn back time: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Record Fair

Sunday, May 14, Midday-4pm

It’s time to rifle through the racks and get in a spin with the return of the Craufurd Arms record fair. Whether it’s a Shakin’ Stevens picture disc, or that limited edition Slayer blood splatter pack you’re after, you might just find it here! Wax lyrical: thecraufurdarms.com

Brafield on the Green Open Gardens

Sunday, May 14, 11am-5pm

The suggested walking route round the village includes the pond and the allotments as well as around 10 Open Gardens. A ticket to visit the gardens is £5 from Brafield Club –accompanied children under 16 years free. Well behaved dogs welcome. Proceeds to the Village Jubilee Fund. Parking is free. Bloomin’ great: 07802 533137 or email gillager@btinternet.com

PLANT SALE

Sunday, 14th May 2023 10am – 1pm

Hackleton Village Hall, NN7 2AH

Mike and The Mechanics Refuelled! Sunday, May 21

Genesis founding member Mike Rutherford and his band deliver smash hits like Over My Shoulder, while sating the appetites of Genesis fans with some classics from their catalogue at MK Theatre. The Living Years: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Lawnmower Festival

Sunday, May 21, 10.30am-4.30pm

Machines aplenty will be lined up for inspection at this popular mechanical bash at MK Museum. Close shave: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

The Mousetrap

Monday, May 22 – Saturday, May 27

The world’s longest-running play – the genre-defining murder mystery from the pen of the best-selling novelist of all time comes to the new city for a five day stay. Christie classic: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Hugh Budden & The Blue Chords

Tuesday, May 23, 7.30pm

Hugh is a harmonica player and showman bringing joyous swing, jump, jive, rock n roll and soul, all within the blues field. Jump to it: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Boyzlife

Thursday, May 25

Join Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden as they perform songs from their studio album, Old School, and yes, they will treat the assembled to the songs of Boyzone and Westlife, too. No matter what: royalandderngate.co.uk

Spear of Destiny visit Wolverton and ‘fampton as part of their current UK tour

Hackleton & District WI

Professionally grown basket and bedding plants, shrubs, perennials, herbs for a beautiful garden. WI Homemade Cake/Produce Stall Refreshments and Free Parking Available

The Proclaimers

Friday, May 26

Incredibly, more than 35 years have passed since twin brothers Craig and Charlie Reid delivered their debut album which featured the hit single Letter From America. Timeless songs with poignancy, emotional honesty, political fire and wit. Sunshine on Leith: royalandderngate.co.uk

Big Country & Spear of Destiny

Saturday, May 27

Big Country mark the 40th anniversary of their debut album The Crossing by hitting the live circuit, and they are bringing Spear of Destiny along for the ride. The Storm: theroadmender.com

The Art of Abstraction

27th May - 4th June 2023

10 - 4pm daily

Free Admission

Yardley Arts, The Square, Yardley Hastings, Northampton, NN7 1EU

Email: info@yardleyarts.org

Yardley Arts present an exciting and colourful exhibition prioritising colour, shape or movement over the representational story. Showcasing the work of over a dozen established artists - this is an exhibition not to be missed! All artwork, prints and cards are available to purchase.

Please visit our website for the full list of classes and explore your creativity in our beautiful arts centre. www.yardleyarts.org

TALK OF THE TOWN

MAY & JUNE

Coronation Community Festival

Saturday 6th May –Guildhall Road

As part of the Coronation Celebrations, Northampton Town Council are hosting a Community Festival on Guildhall Road to showcase the town’s diverse culture and heritage and celebrate this momentous event, our residents are invited to come together with friends, family and the local community to mark this historic occasion. The day will include live stage entertainment with dance, music and shows, children’s activities and collaborative workshops, roaming entertainment as well as live coverage of the Coronation on big screens. Visit www.northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/ coronation-community-festival to keep up to date with the latest plans!

In partnership with West Northamptonshire Council, Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, Northampton BID & Delapré Abbey

Bands in the Park

Every Sunday & Bank Holiday

Monday 2–5pmAbington Park Bandstand

Our Bands in the Park season has begun at the park’s iconic bandstand! Featuring a wide range of performers including brass, jazz and concert bands, join us in the beautiful surroundings of Abington Park, meet up with family and friends and enjoy the music.

8th May - Buddy Holly Tribute Band - Kindly sponsored by The Park Café, Abington Park

14th May - Milton Keynes Brass

21st May - City of Coventry Brass

28th May - Churches Together Northampton

29th May - Sax’s Cool Band

Curtis Stigers

Monday, May 29 & Tuesday, May 30

The award-winning singer, songwriter and saxophonist is back at one of his favourite venues with a two night stay. Curtis released his latest album, Gentleman, back in 2020. I Wonder Why: stables.org

The Bodyguard

Monday, May 29 – Saturday, June 3 Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton steps into the role made famous by the late Whitney Houston in the stage version of the smash hit film, but be warned; she will only appear during the evening performances. One Moment in Time: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni Ba

Wednesday, May 31, 8pm

Kouyate is one of the true masters of the ngoni, an ancient traditional lute found throughout West Africa, and is one of Africa’s premier global artists. Together with his band, Ngoni Ba, he has revolutionised the sound of the ngoni, and worked with Damon Albarn and Paul Weller. They’ve got the lute: stables.org

4th June - Leighton-Linslade Concert Band

Oak Apple Day

Monday 29th May - From 11am –All Saints Church

This traditional event, unique to Northampton, is to remember the contribution from King Charles II for the restoration of the town after the great fire in 1675 and includes the oak leaf wreathing of the statue of the King, which is on the roof of All Saints Church, by the Mayor of Northampton.

Northampton County Beer Festival

Friday 2nd & Saturday 3rd June –Becket’s Park

Live music, festival food, craft and bottled beer, ales, ciders, processco and much more!

For more details on NTC’s events and projects visit: northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/events

Or get in touch with the team: events@northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk

All events and projects listed are delivered, supported or sponsored by Northampton Town Council

The Proclaimers would walk 500 miles to see you in Northampton

Curtis Stigers is set for a two-night stay at The Stables

A right Royal night out!

Mental health, how to learn to deal with dark and wobbly times, and how to work with the grey matter to achieve great things –just some of the shows coming to the ‘fampton this month. There’s also comedy, a look at the spooky side, joy from Strictly ace Johannes, and Fireman Sam is parking his engine in the town.

Sammy Jones has the best of this month’s fire-y and fiery shows...

When not doing their respective day jobs, sports broadcaster Jake Humphrey and psychologist

Professor Damian Hughes have found further success with their podcast, High Performance, and now they are taking it to the stage.

This is all about being invested in improving your mindset and they’ll share the secrets used by the world’s remarkable athletes and entrepreneurs to excel, before teaching you how to follow their lead. Check in at the Derngate (May 7).

And you can check in to The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (May 9-13) with a plethora of pros delivering writer Deborah Moggach’s work; Paul Nicholas, Tessa Peake- Jones, Belinda Lang and Graham Seed head up the casting for this warm, leisurely delivery.

Joe Tracini visits The Royal (May 9) to discuss what living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is like.

The statistics are dark; 15% of people with BPD take their own lives, and 40% try – Joe is one of them. But being alive has taught him loads and he wants to share it with others dealing with challenging mental illnesses.

He’s already put his experience down in words with a decidedly honest page-tuner, Ten Things I Hate About Me, and Joe’s videos about his ‘broken brain’ have clocked up more than 90 million views so far. Which says lots about what is happening in society.

Self harm and suicide will be discussed in this essential show. Thank you for doing this, Joe.

Fox (Underground, May 13 & 14) is Katie Guicciardi’s brutally honest exploration of new motherhood in an increasingly isolating society, which What’s On Stage declared to be ‘a brave, eye-opening show’ after they caught a performance.

Sunday’s matinee is for grown ups to bring their babes in arms to – a ‘baby friendly’ seating set up will be in play and the performance will be relaxed, so there’s no need to squirm if they grizzle!

The hour-long show is one filled with adult content which will cover postnatal depression and has mentions of baby loss. Therefore, it’s not suitable for babies over the age of 12 months.

Jasper Carrott and Alistair McGowan team up for twice the laughter (Derngate, May 15), Ben Fogle (Derngate, May 17) returns with Wild, a show full of hope, simplicity and harmony, and Jimmy Carr is back on May 19. It sold out months ago. Not so funny now, huh?! Northampton Musical Theatre Company are back (May 20) with Guys and Dolls at The Royal. Speaking of royal things, historian, broadcaster and Chief Curator of The Tower of London, Tracy Borman will take you on an audio visual tour of 1000 years of Kings and Queens, the good, the bad, the great and the mad (Derngate, May 21).

From William the Conqueror to Charles III, this show will pack plenty in; birth, romance, beheading, coronation, abdication, marriage, divorce, disaster and triumph.

In 2022, Johannes Radebe came to Northampton and sizzled in his first solo show. The tour was a smash hit, and now the Strictly star is back for more full-on roar, in Freedom Unleashed

A colourful melting pot of South African rhythms and party anthems will pulsate in this celebration of culture, passion and freedom with a man who is every bit as down-to-earth and lovely as he is talented.

The folks behind the experiential evening Do You Believe in Ghosts? promise to raise the hairs on your arms and send chills down the back of your neck with a dark night of spooky stories at The Old Savoy (May 26), and then everyone’ favourite blaze quencher, Fireman Sam will visit (May 31, midday and 3pm).

This time Fireman Sam Saves The Circus in Pontypandy, and he’ll be joined by some familiar faces; Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman will all play their part in the action-packed hour-long show. Get the kids a ticket for this, and you’ll definitely be in their good books.

Joe Tracini talks about living with Borderline Personality Disorder

Will Fireman Sam save the circus in Pontypandy?

Tracy Borman is wearing the history crown in Northampton this month

After last year’s spectacular show, Johannes Radebe is back at The Derngate on May 22

Proving the staying power of the electric vehicle

Going on holiday in the UK with an EV. Sounds simple, right? Well, you won’t believe the number of people that still have range anxiety or think that EVs can’t go the distance. So, with some simple planning, we took a 400-mile staycation with a CUPRA Born.

It all came about when Dorset Cottage Holidays pinged my in-box asking if I’d be interested in staying in one of their properties with an EV charger installed. Great idea.

Setting off on the 148-mile jaunt from Buckinghamshire to Dorset, there was plenty of watts to get us there with ease. A full charge will see you right for around 189 miles.

Born packs plenty of torque, 310 Nm to be precise, and accelerates from 0-62 in 6.6 seconds. So let’s say warm hatch quick. But even when up to speed at 60 mph, there’s still plenty of shove to despatch overtakes efficiently.

Our first stop was The Blue Pool, a nature reserve and restaurant for a much needed lunch. We then spent the afternoon checking out the other-worldly Winspit Quarry and rambling along the Smugglers Way circular walk.

Arriving at the incredibly spacious ‘Daisy’s’ in a quiet Swanage close. We opened the gates to the courtyard area to give Born some much-needed rest. Plugging in was easy, using a supplied RFID card.

Now it’s not what you’d traditionally think of as a ‘holiday cottage’ in Dorset, with it being a relatively modern house. But it felt like a home from home nonetheless. Spotlessly clean with an eclectic mix of antique and modern furniture, there was the choice of three bedrooms, all with ensuites. It can cater for six, making it ideal for larger families.

Waking up the following morning, Born was happily charged and ready for the day ahead. But that only involved a 20-minute drive before we headed off to explore Brownsea Island. Which isn’t a place for cars, even if they are all-electric.

So Born was relegated to a car park ornament while we took a boat across to the island and did much exploring. Unfortunately, only seeing two of the famed red squirrels in the process. On the way back to base that evening, the augmented reality Head Up Display really stood out in the dim darkness. It’s unlike any other HUD I’ve seen before you actually get arrows that hover in front of you, where you need to turn. As you get closer, they get bigger and bigger, then vanish as you turn the corner. It takes distraction-free driving to another level.

Back on charge at ‘Daisy’s’ ready for the long journey home the next day.

Settling down for the evening, the living room, with its colossal sofa, made for the perfect reading spot with a cup of tea in hand.

Up early, packed, tidied and ready to leave for the check-out time of 10am. Saying goodbye to ‘Daisy’s’, we reflected on how easy the whole thing had been. From checking in to not worrying about finding a charger ‘in the wild’ and having somewhere so homey and snug to call base for the last two nights. But we weren’t heading home quite yet. A little detour on the way back saw us stop at Clouds Hill, the National Trust-owned property home to T.E. Lawrence.

Range on the CUPRA Born showed a healthy 175 miles. We had 147 to go until home. Sitting at 70 mph or just above for most of the journey, the range started to dip slightly. We still would have made it, but the consistently higher speeds were sapping the watts a bit quicker than I’d have liked. Backing off a little for the final 30/40 miles saw us home with 26 miles to spare.

While you still find plenty of naysayers regarding electric vehicles, how they’re a fad, they aren’t the answer, etc., using one in 2023 as an everyday, normal car is perfectly possible. Driving over 400 miles in most petrol or diesel vehicles would have required a petrol station fill-up. But choosing the right destination and charging where you’re staying just feels so much more convenient. Wake up every morning, and you’re refuelled and ready to go. All while emitting zero emissions when driving. Win, win.

A huge thanks to CUPRA UK for the press loan and, of course, Dorset Cottage Holidays for the two-night stay - dhcottages.co.uk

The CUPRA Born enjoys a rest and re-charge at the holiday home in Swanage

Winspit Quarry

The living room at ‘Daisy’s’

Brownsea Island

The CUPRA Born features Head Up Display

View from the Far Kerb

Cat Videos

Are you sitting comfortably? Yes? Good, then I’ll begin.

A cute black and white kitten is on a dining table, playing with a napkin. He is engrossed in playing and unaware of how close he is to the edge. He falls off the table, looks surprised, then walks away as if all was normal.

I agree, it isn’t quite the same as watching a cat video online. However, the written word has the advantage of being available without mains electricity.

Need an electrician because the main fuse box has made a funny sound and plunged the whole house into the 1820s? No problem, just pop online and have a look. Given that some sources on the internet state, with great authority, that the earth is definitely flat, square, oblong or banana-shaped, you might want to connect to others and ask for recommendations.

Social media is a great tool for finding the truth and best lifestyle choices. A-hem, yes… Sorted. That wasn’t a drama, was it?

indication of no electricity. Ah, that would be the result of the previously mentioned funny sound from the fuse box.

It’s chilly outside. Do you want to turn the heating on for an hour to drive out the cold? What do you mean, the boiler won’t run? Oh, the system is down due to a lack of electrical power to the controller. Have a cup of tea while establishing what to do next. The electric kettle won’t boil, whether you watch it or not. No electricity. Remember that strange noise from the fuse box? Blah, blah, blah. Hah! Boil some water in a saucepan and make tea in a mug. The gas hob won’t light because there is no spark. Are you sure you remember that funny sound the fuse box made?

Matches. There must be some in the house, somewhere. You remember buying a box. Was it before or during the pandemic? Maybe it was cocktail sticks? Or candles for a birthday cake. Whichever, you can’t find any matches.

At least your mobile phone is working. The problem is that you now need to wrestle with a small screen and a fiddly virtual keyboard to find anything and you need to go outside to get a decent signal so as to be able to load any web pages. It’s raining and cold. If only that router was up and you could connect to the WiFi in your house…

Who do you call? If anyone says, “Ghostbusters!” then go to the back of the room.

Fill

9 2 7 5 8

2 4 3

1 4

6 3 8 4 7

2 1 9 7

QUICK CROSSWORD

Except, the computer is down. No power, you see. What? You have a laptop and the battery is 93% charged and ready for action? Off you go! See if you can connect to the internet with a dead router. Its lack of status lights is a sure

Or, maybe just pick up that copy of Pulse that you have readily available for reference and phone someone real enough to appear in print rather than be an avatar on social media.

Clues Across

1. Unpredictable

4. Large sea mammal

7. Lift

8. Chores

9. Picturesque

12. Lengthen

15. Role models

17. Pass (of time)

18. Dock

21. Word jumble

22. Shaving cuts

Clues Down

1. Unmasking

2. In poor health

3. Zodiac Cancer symbol

4. Sharpen (appetite)

5. Extremely bad

6. Dines

10. Prison rooms

11. Pickle

13. Outward

14. Over-zealous supporter

16. Yellow fruit

18. Caution

19. Cooling appliances

20. Story

Social media is a great tool for finding the truth and best lifestyle choices. A-hem, yes…

Your stars

Flavour of the Times - Flexibility of mind is the very best skill to develop during this period that we find ourselves in. If you are a bit stuck in your ways and routines, the disruptions and changes of direction and perspective that occur now will be much harder to cope with unless you can adjust to them with a measure of acceptance. There really is no point in continually repeating to anyone who will listen how things should, in your opinion, be because the past is the past.

We get a chance to adjust to the new realities of Pluto in Aquarius now for about six weeks before the god of the underworld retreats into Capricorn until next winter. Once he returns to Aquarius, it will be a roller coaster of change for about 20 years so the sooner we change our mindsets the easier it will be. Ride the wave or be swamped, I guess.

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

This month is a great time for you to get planting seeds, either literally or symbolically. Jupiter moves into your sign to add to a bit of a traffic jam of planets on 17th and the new moon two days later should be fertile ground for new plans. Don’t be afraid to get a bit more radical than you usually are as some excellent opportunities are there for you now. The 19th is a particularly powerful day.

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

Your social world is opening up a bit now but will be better next month. May is much more about doing some hard physical work rather than talking about it (for a change?!) Venus departs for Cancer on 8th May so you should take advantage of any romantic (or moneymaking) opportunities before then, unless you want them to become serious, that is.

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

Venus moves into your sign on 7th while Mars departs it for Leo on 19th. In between, the Taurus energy rules strongly, and you can use this to put in place some procedures either for family security or financial. Grounded protectiveness seems like a phrase to describe this so, for example, children may appreciate your strong support (even though they complain about it, of course!)

LEO

July 24 – August 23

May is all about Taurus, the image of the bull ploughing the field. He does it thoroughly, slowly and without fuss, grounded and in touch with the soil. Not exactly how you go about your life with your taste for ‘look at me’ dramas, but there is always something to be learnt from people very different from you. Try a different approach, you might actually enjoy it and you can always tell people about it later.

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

Your mind may find the narrow, plodding and rather uncritical mind of Taurus a bit frustrating this month, but maybe you would benefit from letting go of all that relentless sifting and analysing and just experience the simplicity of life. Visits into nature will refresh you and help you to experience a bigger picture in how our world is structured than you could ever achieve by analysis.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

There is a whole lot of Taurus this month so you should try to stay light and airy and not get dragged down into the muddy plod of the everyday. Both Libra and Taurus love beauty so you will benefit so much from seeing the bluebells in spring and all the other wonders of nature. Money is also gently favoured, so spend a little on a special thing of beauty to treasure forever.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

Taurus is of the ground, the earth, the mud, so the challenge of this month is to put in place a few boundaries to limit how far you let your deep emotional intensity spread. Possibly recognise that your fears are actually groundless, that people are not necessarily plotting behind your back and that all you actually have to do is do what you need to do without thinking too deeply about it.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22

This month is not going feel all that comfortable for you because Taurus is slow and you are fast! This is frustrating, so get help from those who like to put one foot in front of another rather than rush ahead over the next hill. Yes, that’s you! Time to feel the solid earth under your feet rather than scorch it with your crazy urges for something… anything, except what you’ve already got. Be here now.

You are bound to be affected personally by some if not all of the massive changes that are taking place this year. An astrological reading of your chart can forewarn you about how these changes might affect you. To really understand what they mean for you on a personal level during 2023, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation with me. This is completely specific to you and your life. This will illuminate many things that you may not have considered up to now and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year.

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

Your organised world is being rocked again now that Pluto has left Capricorn for Aquarius. It’s a time for innovation, thinking outside the box. This may feel unsettling at first, but you’ll soon find ways and means to make it all work for you, particularly after June. Take a little time this month to put your house or business in order so that creativity and new ideas can take off.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

The sun entering Taurus is always a challenge for you. Aquarians like to be up in their heads, thinking things out, imagining all sorts of weird and wonderful schemes. May will let you know whether any of those are at all practical. Best to run anything you think you are serious about past people more down to earth than you are. Let them do the heavy lifting.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

May is always down to earth and practical, which helps you, even though you may not admit it to yourself. You can’t always be floating away on a cloud and sometimes it’s good to come down and deal with the prosaic stuff of being alive, of having a body that needs looking after and finding routines to help you get through those todo lists that you’d rather not have to bother with.

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

The energetic surge of Aries energy in March and April always gets grounded in May when the Taurus bull brings us down to earth. OK, so you have been fired up with all sorts of great ideas. Which ones are you actually going to make happen? I mean really, really happen. This means you cant just rely on your own skills and aptitudes. You are going to need help. Go, find a Taurean.

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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