NN Pulse magazine October 2022

After saying farewell to Her Majesty, it’s time to look forward to all the events and activities autumn and winter have in store for us.

As well as our usual guide to all the good things happening in and around Northampton, you can find out about all the festive events you can take part in. Whether you’re looking forward to Olney’s traditional Dickens of a Christmas on 4 December or some ice skating at Whilton Locks Garden Village you’re sure to find something exciting to do.

Visit the carol service at the Tree Cathedral in Milton Keynes or drop in to see Santa in his Grottos at Delapré Abbey or Stanwick Lakes. Alternatively, you can join hundreds of ‘Santas’ for the annual Santa Dash in aid of Willen Hospice on 18 December. We’ve got some helpful tips for Christmas on a shoestring this year, including making your own colourful wreaths with the Parks Trust in Milton Keynes, at Delapré Abbey or Whilton Locks and ideas for Secret Santa gift giving and making the most of your festive food.

As a special treat, five families can win two tickets each to the everpopular Festive Gift Fair at the NEC in November. Just answer our simple question online before 31 October and you could be one of the lucky ones.

If you’re a panto lover you can also look forward to performances of Snow White, Jack and the Beanstalk, The Night Before Christmas, Potted Panto, and Santa’s Christmas Rescue – oh yes you can!

We will soon find out who are Northamptonshire’s top food and drink producers and businesses this month too. Winners of all fifteen categories in the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards will be announced on the 12th. We are especially looking forward to the One to Watch category results.

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

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.

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

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!

Northamptonshire Police released a dog calendar in 2020 which raised money for The National Police Dog Memorial. Now the 2022 calendar is doing the same for the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a national dog welfare charity that celebrates, protects and supports working and retired police dogs across the UK.

The project has raised more than £2,500 for the charity which provides financial support to the owners of retired police dogs, which can be difficult to insure due to their strenuous working lives.

Northamptonshire Police dog handler PC Lucy Sculthorpe helped to organise the calendar. “Two retired dogs from our unit, Harper and Redd, are supported by the Thin Blue Paw Foundation. Both had required ongoing treatment which has been funded by the charity and we wanted to give something back to say ‘Thank you’.”

Orders for the calendar have come in from as far away as the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. “The calendar has been a huge success,” says PC Sculthorpe.

Charity trustee Gemma Wardell

Paws Calendar raises charity

veterinary care, medication and treatment.”

The Thin Blue Paw Foundation provides support for veterinary and rehabilitation treatment to both serving and retired police dogs. “We hope that the money raised can help them continue the good work they already do,” says Mr Adderley.

met with Chief Constable Nick Adderley and Northamptonshire Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold to officially accept the donation at a special presentation held at Darby House in Wellingborough.

Police dogs Ebby and Frankie were there to present the cheque

alongside their handler PC Ash Price.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who organised the calendar, had their photos taken, and bought one to hang on their wall,” Gemma says. “Every pound helps us to support ex-police dogs in their retirements and ensure they have access to the very best

Mr Mold adds: “Police dogs play an important role in keeping the county safe, fighting crime and protecting the people of Northamptonshire. It is right that we do what we can to support these four-legged heroes to ensure they live happy and healthy lives while in service and once retired.

“I am delighted that we have been able to raise vital funds for the Thin Blue Paws Foundation. It is these donations that enable the charity to support handlers and new owners to maintain the health and welfare of current and former police dogs for as long as they need.”

Thin Blue Paw Foundation trustee Gemma Wardell is pictured with the Northamptonshire’s Chief Constable Nick Adderley and members of the county force’s dog handling unit

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile.

Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to replace their complete window frames, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced and/ or upgraded in an affordable and ethical manner.

Remember, a failed glazing unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed

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

All C2C employees operate a strict social distancing policy.

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

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

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

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

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

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.com

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

“I really liked the fact that they were a local community run business”

Publishers put on a show after sealing partnership deal with exhibition organiser

The publishers of leading business newspapers Business Times and Business MK have added a new string to the company’s bow after agreeing a partnership with the organiser of two major annual business exhibitions.

ulse Group Media, which also publishes the lifestyle magazines MK Pulse and NN Pulse, has joined forces with Your Business

Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes.

current publishing business in print and online,” says Pulse Goup Media director

much synergy with what we are already expert in and, in the current climate, diversification into a complementary

Your Business Expo is run by Sheila Smith. She launched a networking group back in 2010, from which evolved the Northamptonshire Business Expo. It continues to attract dozens of exhibitors from all over Northamptonshire and beyond and has enabled Sheila to launch

Business Expos elsewhere in the UK, including in Leicester.

“We have known Sheila Smith for some time and know that she is hugely respected in the exhibition sphere,” says Kerry. “When the opportunity came up to team up with her on the exhibitions, we felt it was a chance not to pass up.”

Sheila will continue to contribute to the expos as a consultant. “I have been running the expos for some 12 years now and feel that it is time for them to benefit from a fresh set of eyes and ideas,” she says.

“I am delighted that Pulse Group Media have come on board. They are hugely respected regionally for the quality of their publications and online offer and I have no doubt they will bring the same level of quality, positivity and innovation to the expos. We cannot wait to get started.”

Northampton needs an Urgent Treatment Centre

The after-effects of the Covid-19 pandemic are still very much with us. My office has been inundated this year with emails and letters from constituents who have had difficulty accessing face to face appointments with GPs and others suffering huge wait times in A&E. I have visited a number of GP surgeries over the last few months and spoken to other professionals to hear first-hand the issues from the supply end. It is clear that a mixture of the continuing ‘total triage’ method of assessing appointments brought in during the Covid crisis combined with a huge backlog of patients now coming forward to see the doctor after holding back during the pandemic, are causing frustration and crisis. This has not been helped by a huge spike in NHS retirements which has added to GP and nurse shortages. This in turn has driven desperate patients from primary care to A&E, which is in turn adding to system clogging in Northampton General Hospital leading to longer waiting times. Tel: 01604 978080 andrew.lewer.mp@parliament.uk 42 Billing Road, Northampton NN1 5DE Lewer

Hence at the recent Prime Minister’s Questions I raised the issue of funding a ‘walk-in’ Urgent Treatment Centre in the grounds of the hospital as one measure that could alleviate A&E waiting times and take some of the pressure off GP surgeries in Northampton. We have had a good recent track record in building a case, lobbying and securing funding for both a new Children’s A&E and the new adult A&E which is opening shortly.

The NGH management has already identified a site in the hospital grounds. All it needs now is the funding and this is why, when Parliament returns I will be lobbying and campaigning for the funding needed. This will not be a cure-all, but it will at least help ease some of the pressures and will lead to better outcomes and experiences, both for patients and the medical professionals that serve us.

> If you are my constituent and you would like to come down to London for a tour of the Houses of Parliament, I would be delighted to organise this for you. Please email me andrew.lewer.mp@parliament.uk

Her late Majesty was always warmly welcomed to Northampton and the town mourned sincerely.

The Proclamation of King Charles III

Andrew’s lobbying has already helped to secure funding for the Children’s A&E and the new Adult A&E at Northampton General but now he is pressing for a ‘Walk-in’ Urgent Treatment Centre to ease the pressure on the A&E departments

MAKE THE HAWTHORNS

It may seem like an obvious answer as surely something that identifies a person as being an employee or representative of a business is a uniform. We’d all know military or emergency services’ uniform if we saw it; we’d all know the uniform worn by flight attendants and employees of other well known organisations, but if (for example) a pub and restaurant told its serving staff to wear black shoes, black trousers and a black or white top, is that ‘uniform’?

In a case that would be of interest to employers and employees alike, the Employment Team at Wilson Browne Solicitors, led by Jennie Jahina, continues to deal with complex and interesting cases.

One such case involves advising a client with a HMRC investigation into alleged

National Minimum Wage breaches – an interesting case as the client has always paid (or so they believed) well above the NMW. However, HMRC maintain that they have failed to take into account some more esoteric matters (such as ‘does specifying either a colour of shoe, or a style of shoe constitute a uniform?’) which, if taken into account, would have the effect of pushing salaries below the NMW for certain reference periods. Plus, crucially, this client has inherited this liability via TUPE (TUPE is where employees are transferred to another employer as part of a legal merger or sale of the business).

Whilst we continue to argue the case, employers would be well advised to identify potential pitfalls which could push your organisation below NMW payments at any time (even if only for one week or

month of the year) before HMRC start any investigation – and this way avoid possible reputational damage. Likewise, employees should be clear on whether any prescribed clothing constitutes a uniform.

Whether you are an employer or an employee, the Wilson Browne Employment Team can advise you on all things relating to employment.

If you would like to discuss this topic with our legal team, call 0800 088 6004 for an appointment. To keep things simple, no matter what the issue, we’ll be able to give you a clear indication of the final cost, should you require further assistance after the first meeting.

Jennie Jahina

Back pain comes in many forms. It can be felt as a sharp pain when bending down or it might be a dull ache that radiates down the legs. Reasons why you might need spinal treatment:

Herniated cervical disc: this develops when a disc between the vertebrae breaks down and pushes against the nerves or against the spinal cord. This may be due to arthritis or a back injury.

Sciatica: this is commonly felt as a pain in the lower back and down a leg. It is caused by pressure on the

Do you suffer with Back Pain?

sciatic nerve. Sciatica can also occur when a disc in your spine becomes worn and develops a bulge (this is called a slipped disc).

Spinal stenosis: this occurs where the space in the centre of the spine (spinal canal) becomes narrow. The nerves can become trapped, which can cause weakness or pain in your legs.

Scoliosis: this is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. The spine twists, which causes the ribcage to rotate.

Normally, back pain will go away naturally within a few weeks or months. However, sometimes the

pain does not improve or it gets worse over time. At Circle Health, we are proud to facilitate hundreds of specialists who can help improve your mobility and reduce your back pain through a variety of treatment options. This might be through surgery or more non-invasive methods, such as physiotherapy or pain management.

Whether you have back pain caused by arthritis or poor posture, such as a slipped disc, our team will strive to ensure you experience increased mobility and pain relief through effective treatment.

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

Sue Cardy Curtains

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

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

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

Reinventing the Royal Ordnance Depot

Weedon’s Royal Ordnance Depot has come back to life in recent years, with the opening of a Visitor Centre and operating as a business park. Laura Malpas delves into the past of this historic local site.

Did you ever watch the TV series Sharpe, starring Sean Bean as the dashing hero of the British Army, heroically rushing around Europe during the Napoleonic Wars, and saving the day? If you did, then you have identified the historic setting for the subject of this month’s history article. If Richard Sharpe was a real

soldier, then he would have relied on the Royal Ordnance Depot at Weedon to supply the uniform, arms, and ammunition he needed to be a hero.

By 1799, Napoleon Bonaparte had emerged from the French Revolution as the undisputed leader of the new French Republic. His ambition to gain total political power in Europe was

The off-shoot from the Grand Union Canal has become a haven for waterfowl

Fans of the TV series Sharpe will be able to relate to the historic period that saw the development of the Depot

seemingly boundless, as were his military successes. The British watched horrified as he turned his attention to the British Isles, and at his preparations to invade. British strategists realised quickly that they had to prepare for war, recruiting and training new militia, and fortifying the defences on the southern coastline of England.

A vitally important element of the preparations against the Napoleonic threat was to improve the supply lines of equipment and resources. By 1803, Parliament recognised that they required a state-of-the-art ordnance hub in the centre of England, as far from any coastline as possible, but with good transport links to everywhere in the country. The small village of Weedon in Northamptonshire was the perfect choice, with its proximity to the transport conduits of both the Grand Union Canal and Watling Street. Colonel Pilkington of the Royal Engineers designed a new logistics depot, and building started under tight security, and progressed speedily. The bulk of the work was completed by 1810. At this stage this top-secret small town was a handsomely built complex including eight enormous red brick two storey storerooms to house rifles and other small arms, powder magazines and blast houses. Barracks were provided for 500 artillery soldiers, a parade ground, stabling for the regimental horses, a hospital, and a police station. Elegant Georgian houses were provided for the Governor and other officers, and there was even a military prison onsite. This secret town was surrounded by defensive perimeter walls with lookout bastions.

Further additions were made over the years, most notably following a massive fire at the Tower of London in 1841 which was responsible for the loss of nearly all the British reserve of firearms. Such was the importance of the Weedon depot, which now housed virtually all the essential supplies for the British Army, all the latest technology was employed to ensure safe and secure storage and speedy dispatch of supplies. The Depot even had its own Fire Station, a necessity

as the storage of up to 2000 tonnes of gunpowder, guns covered in grease, ammunition, solvents and textiles were a highly volatile mix. Fire was a constant and potentially lethal risk.

Initially the Depot was connected to the transport network via an offshoot of the Grand Union Canal, with a basin to allow barges to turn. This branch arm was protected by gatehouses at either end, with a moveable portcullis to control access and egress. The Eastern Gatehouse also bears a handsome cupola containing a clock built in 1814 by John Thwaites.

It still chimes every fifteen minutes, and on the hour, keeping perfect time. Eventually the railway revolution also connected the Ordnance Depot to the rest of the UK via a branch line to the main London North Western Railway Company’s network.

As the years went by, the Depot grew both in size and function, including warehouses for uniform supplies, workshops to repair or recycle rifles and other small arms, a chapel, and even groves of walnut trees to provide the finest wood for rifle stocks.

The usual efficiency of the Depot was occasionally found wanting, Florence Nightingale herself reporting that great hardship was caused by supplying only summer weight equipment to soldiers fighting in winter conditions.

Top left: Napolean Bonaparte’s emergence prompted Britain to prepare for war against the French, illustrated in a contemporary cartoon (left). Above right: Florence Nightingale highlighted deficiencies in the equipment being produced for British troops at depots including Weedon

An old photographic print of the Weedon Royal Ordnance Depot

Another problem she highlighted was the extraordinarily impractical method of dispatching footwear, left boots in one ship, and right boots in another. When the inevitable happened and the ‘right boot’ ship sank, both cargoes were worthless. The highly respected ‘Lady with the Lamp’ was heard, and reforms were made which increased the efficiency of the supply chain for the military in the field.

The Depot continued servicing the British military throughout every major conflict, being remodelled during both the First and Second World Wars. However, by 1961 its role was sufficiently diminished, and the announcement was made of its imminent closure. Its role supporting the needs of the British military ended in 1965. The site was decommissioned, and in 1984 the main site was sold at auction and passed into private hands.

Today only the original footprint and most of the buildings of the 1810 Royal Ordnance Depot remains, along with the Firemen’s quarters. Although the canal offshoot remains filled with water providing a home to many waterfowl, it is no longer connected to the Grand Union Canal.

However, the eight massive storerooms and other handsome Georgian buildings remain, and many are let as offices, studios, and retail premises. As a visitor it’s an exciting opportunity to wander through these spacious historic buildings and enjoy the industrial architecture once home to so many vital services which kept our nation safe from our erstwhile enemies. And equally exciting is the opportunity to shop for all sorts of treats and experiences. On my most recent visits I enjoyed delicious freshly

baked cakes and coffee and browsed through wonderful retail displays of art, antiques and bookshops. I noticed several smart dogs emerging from a groomer in one storeroom, and welltoned bodies from a gym in another. There is a massive variety of traders well worth exploring.

Perhaps my favourite stop is at the Eastern Gatehouse, home of The Depot Visitor Centre. Staffed entirely by volunteers, the little museum tells the extraordinary story of the Royal Ordnance Depot, and of the supplies and people it has housed over the last two hundred years. Many of the volunteers worked at the Depot while it was still active and are passionate about sharing their stories. I was proudly shown the workings of the Turret clock, still keeping perfect time despite it being well over 200 years old. I was particularly touched by one story of how romance blossomed during a delivery of decommissioned small arms, rifles, Bren guns and Sten guns. The story ended only after a happy marriage which lasted 57 years. I was delighted to learn that the volunteer on duty was the happy husband!

If you are looking for a truly unique venue for an outing, perhaps with lunch and a little fascinating exploration, I recommend a visit to this once secret depot. I’ve never seen anything like it.

For more information, please visit www.the-depot.co.uk

The Eastern Gatehouse now houses The Depot Visitor Centre

Local businesses now occupy some of the original buildings

Why wait for treatment?

Fast access to a Consultant of your choice. All-inclusive, fixed price treatment packages and the flexibility of spreading the cost interest-free for 12 months*.

Great experience today. All the staff are extremely friendly and make you feel totally at ease! The team who looked after me were first class and I would have no hesitation in recommending the Three Shires to anyone! Thank you!

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

Specialties include: Orthopaedics (bones and joints), Gastroenterology, Ophthalmology, Cancer Treatment, Urology, Gynaecology, Ear Nose & Throat and General Surgery. 04.2022

Dr. Diana Rose Head of Family Law

Think twice before using social media during a family dispute

It is forecast that, by the end of this year, 90 per cent of the UK adult population will use a social media account at least once a month. We are putting more of our lives online than ever before. We often post about our family celebrations, personal dilemmas and even our relationship status.

KETTERING Brooklands

‘Unfortunately, social media can bring its own set of problems when it comes to a family breakdown,’ says Diana Rose family law expert. ‘Once you may have told your closest friends about your relationship problems, but grievances are now being shared on social media. This has resulted in social media posts being used as evidence in the family courts.’

are a business owner it is likely that you will want to promote your business as being successful to the public. For marketing purposes business owners may therefore decide to post on social media alluding to how well their business is doing. While this highlights positive news for the business, it could lead to questions if it is at odds with representations made to the court about the business’s financial viability.

If you have a disagreement over spousal maintenance, social media posts showing a luxury lifestyle could be used by your former partner to imply that you have significant surplus monies, and that there should be a levelling by way of increased spousal maintenance payments.

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

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

Using social media while annoyed

It is common for tempers to run high at some point during a family breakdown. Feelings are raw and stress inevitably contributes to people, on occasion, acting in a manner they would not normally condone.

Using social media while you are upset is never a good idea, it could never be truer than while you are involved in a family dispute.

Social media posts as evidence

With the introduction of the no-fault divorce this type of evidence may be of little use in a divorce, but it can still be relevant when it comes to arrangements for the children or family finances. For example, if your social media posts aim to create a negative impression of your former partner then you may be accused of influencing your children in relation to their relationship with him or her.

In relation to negotiating matrimonial finances, social media can also be troublesome. For example, if you

Things to consider before posting

It is advisable to avoid any posts that directly reference the breakdown or a former partner. Ask yourself before you post ‘Do I want a judge to read this?,’ or ‘Would I be embarrassed if this was read out in court?’

It is important to be aware that even if your social media account is private, it is always possible for others to pass on information that you post. Photographs taken of private messages and snap chats have also been used as evidence in court. 5DQ 622101

For advice on this or any other family law matter, please contact Diana Rose on 01604 622101 or email diana.rose@bmtclaw.co.uk

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

Image licenced by Ingram Image

Afternoon Tea Weekend raises £15,000 for charity

When organising her first Afternoon Tea Weekend back in 2018, Sue Adkins could never have imagined how successful the event would become. Fast forward five years and the annual staple has raised a whopping £15,190 for charity, £14,290 of which has supported wards and departments across Northampton General Hospital.

For 2022, Sue and Phil Adkins chose Talbot Butler ward to benefit following the wonderful care their brother-in-law, Tim received while a patient four years ago. Ward Sister, Sarah Coughlan and her team were delighted to be presented with a cheque for the £5,450 raised. This is the most that any one event has raised even beating last year’s amazing £3,240 for The Heart Centre.

Since they began in 2018, the ever-popular event has thrown some mighty challenges their way. From a scorching heatwave and torrential downpours to a global pandemic and recovering from knee surgery – they have really faced it all and yet managed to turn things around every single year to raise more than £15,000 for great causes. Year on year, its success grows so that for the fifth year running more teas were sold than ever, totalling 200!

Whether it was a takeaway – adopted during the pandemic – or sitting in their lovely garden for the full-on hospitality experience for the 103 people who attended over four sittings across the first weekend in July, the food was deliciously divine, as always – all homemade. That is a whole lot of baking, cooking, sandwich making and preparing. A notable donation this year came from Roddas who kindly donated 200 portions of their clotted cream and 200 pots of jam to accompany the homemade scones.

Phil said, “The preparations start back in January with e-mails and letters sent out to source raffle prizes. We are so grateful to receive these wonderful donations, some companies have supported us every year. Various different cakes and savouries are baked as trials throughout the first half of the year. Discussion on sandwich fillings is ongoing for months! As the weekend draws nearer careful planning becomes a frenzy of activity reaching a crescendo on the Friday before. It all seems to work out, mainly because of the wonderful team we have around us.”

The money Sue and her family have raised over the years has helped to make a difference to hundreds, if not soon to be thousands of patients across Northampton General. From cutlery, other food aids and supporting staff on training courses in the Stroke Unit; to dementia-friendly Zimmer frames, retro clocks and radios and recliner chairs; from special training equipment and a laptop supporting

patients and staff in the Diabetes Centre, to a therapy table providing more comfortable and enhanced experiences as well as enabling the delivery of Reiki treatments for cancer patients in oncology. The Heart Centre, which benefitted from last year’s fundraising is looking to purchase a set of special motorised therapy chairs. These will greatly improve a patient’s experience while helping facilitate quicker recovery times following cardiology procedures. One project Talbot Butler ward are looking to work on is to develop an outside garden space for their patients. This will provide huge benefits to the many who spend long periods being cared for on the ward.

Charity Fundraiser Rob Powell said, “We would like to send a very big and special thank you to Sue and Phil; to their son and daughter, Rob and Emma along with their partners, Shannon and Andrew; to Sue’s sisters Lesley and Caitlin and to absolutely everyone who helps with organising and hosting this event each year. To everyone selling and buying raffle tickets; and purchasing teas – thank you all so much for making a massive difference to so many patients at Northampton General.”

> If you’d like to do some fundraising to support a ward or department at one of the local NHS hospitals in the county please contact the Northamptonshire Health Charity team.

Enjoying tea and raising valuable funds for Northampton General Hospital

The cup that cheers... literally!

Carpenter uses talents to carve a new future

installing flooring for many high profile clients; including celebrities before knee surgery forced a rethink.

“It seemed to be the right time to get back to what I really love doing. I have always wanted to start up a business making and selling bespoke furniture and products, so I took the opportunity to take on the new challenge,” said Steve.

Carpenter Steve Lawson is using his skills carved over more than three decades to take on commissions for a growing list of clients.

Steve, who set up Charnwood Creative Woodworks in the late summer, is already finding demand for his work from both residential and commercial customers.

Some are looking for freestanding furniture from a chest of drawers to a wardrobe, dining table or sideboard. Others live or work in an area/areas which may have a ‘challenging’ space to fill and find off-the-shelf furniture does not really meet their requirements.

Steve, who has a workshop in a barn in the village of Little Oakley, Northamptonshire, said: “Each customer has a different tastes and ideas and I love working with each of them to create a piece which meets their requirements.”

It is more than 30 years since Steve started his carpentry training. Demand for wood flooring took him off into a long career

One of Steve’s latest commissions is a set of cutting boards in different woods from walnut and cherry to oak. He is anticipating that clients may want to commission him to create something to mark an event from a wedding to a significant anniversary. A business may want bespoke furniture for a boardroom or reception desk.

“I am happy to talk to clients who are looking for something different. I can make large pieces of furniture like a wardrobe or table and chairs but I’m just as happy working on smaller items.

“There is something really special about talking to a client before putting a design together and then, once it is approved, creating something out of wood. I have always had a passion for working with wood and now I am getting the opportunity.”

To see just some examples of Steve’s work follow him on Instagram @charnwoodcw Tel: 07810 877901 Email: charnwoodcw@gmail.com

A Dickens of a Christmas

It’s an Olney town tradition that attracts thousands of people every year and it returns in 2022 on December 4.

Enjoy the seasonal market with stallholders choosing to don Victorian costume, and enjoy a cup (or three) of mulled wine as you peruse the stalls selling gifts, food, Christmas trees and decorations, and much more. There are more than a few stalls to take attention too – with Market Place and the length of the High Street occupied by sellers.

Additionally, The Olney Centre and library and The Carlton House Club will host craft fairs.

An old fashioned fair, street organ entertainers and the Olney Brass Band will entertain you, and many of Olney’s independent retailers open their doors for this special event, offering still more giftbuying choices.

Georgian Christmas Display

Inhale the aromas of the festive season; smell the evergreen sprigs of greenery among the decorations and spices in the kitchen at The Cowper & Newton Museum in Olney, before enjoying the festive display which will be open between December 1 and 21.

Usual entrance fees apply, and a free children’s trail will keep them occupied.

Stony Stratford Farmers Market

Wrap up warm and peruse the stalls with their lovely produce in the Market Square on December 23 – perfect for last minute gifts and nice things. The event will be soundtracked by live music, and children can line-up for face painting, while parents enjoy a cup of mulled wine.

The man in red might be popping along too...

If you want to skate your way to December 25, Daventry’s Whilton Locks Garden Village is the place to go to – with a real ice undercover rink back in play from November 18 (until January 3, 2023), and this year the village promises it will be ‘bigger, better and icy-er than ever before.’

Sessions last for 45 minutes, beginning on the hour, and advance bookings are advised.

Whilton delivers the skating experience to as many people as possible – it offers Super SEN Skating sessions for you and your children, so you can use traditional skates, or twin blades skates for added stability.

Penguin and polar bear skate aids are also available, and there are special Toddler Skate events too, for children aged four years and under.

Any ‘cheap skates’ among you? You’ll want to make full use of the half price sessions available, then. For full details visit whiltonlocksgardenvillage.com

At The Cowper and Newton Museum, mulled wine and hot chocolate will be among the steaming drinks to warm you up between 10am and 4pm, and entertainment in the garden will be running at midday, 2pm and 3pm.

At 2.15pm, you are invited to the ‘24 Days of Advent’ carol singing in the Flower Garden, and a festive display, A Georgian Christmas, will run inside the Museum – usual entrance fees apply.

Parking can be a problem due to the popularity of this seasonal special, so make use of the park and ride services which make moving about easy – they will be running from Emberton Park and the Yardley Road Industrial Estate.

A Dickens of a Christmas is free to attend and runs between 10am and 4pm.

Celebrate the winter solstice

In the bleak Midwinter

Carol Service at The Tree Cathedral in Milton Keynes

At a traditional carol service, you should be able to see your breath in the chill of the winter air, you should hold a cup of steaming mulled wine in one hand, a song sheet in the other, and you should have a snuggly hat pulled down tight... You’ll need a nice setting too, and The Parks Trust have sorted that – they will once again be holding their annual festive sing-song at the Tree Cathedral.

But before the open air carolling, a procession will begin at Willen Lake car park.

You will follow a lantern trail along the redways to the cathedral itself. Bring a lantern or torch of your own and meet in the Peace Pagoda car park. Parking charges will apply, but the carol service is free.

When: Sunday, December 11, 3.00pm-5.30pm

Lights of Love

Time to get spooked

There’s always a chill in the air in December, but on December 16, the chill will be somewhat different – with a Spooky History Walk booked in, courtesy of the Cowper & Newton Museum.

Walk Olney’s mysterious byways by night, and learn some of its hair-raising history.

Meet outside the Museum ahead of the 7.30pm start. Adults pay £10, under 16s go for £2, payable on the night. Mulled wine and nibbles are included in the price.

Christmas is a time for families and friends and this poignant event, organised by Willen Hospice, is the perfect opportunity to join a festive celebration of life to remember those who are no longer with us.

It’s a time to remember, and to reflect.

Lights of Love is being hosted at The Ridgeway Centre in Wolverton and anyone from the MK community is welcome, whether your loved one was cared for by Willen Hospice, or elsewhere.

Please remember your purses and wallets –donations will be appreciated.

When: Saturday, December 3, 2.30pm Book: willen-hospice.org.uk

The Carol Service at The Tree Cathedral offers a unique festive experiemce for all of the family to enjoy on Sunday, December 11

Stanwick Lakes in Wellingborough will observe the winter solstice with fire beacons around the lake on December 21. An archer will shoot a burning flame into the middle of the lake to celebrate the pagan festival. Tickets will soon go on sale for fiery display. Check back at stanwicklakes.org.uk

Where to see Santa

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the most famous VIP of all is ready to set up his grotto to greet you all. Father Christmas will be keeping an eye on his reindeer and helping the elves with the present making before heading out on his most special journey on Christmas Eve.

He’s very clever and will be showing up at several locations around and about. Here’s where to see the man with the red suit.

Milton Keynes Museum

Milton Keynes Museum is pleased to announce that it has secured another visit from the biggest star of the season!

He is currently very busy in Lapland, but Father Christmas will be taking time out to meet boys and girls in the new city of MK. The man in red will be in situ at the Museum for the first three weekends in December.

When: December 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 & 18

Cost: £10.50 per child (Usual admission charges also apply) and all children will receive a present from Santa.

Book: miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk

Delapré Abbey

The house will be dressed for Christmas, and Santa will move in temporarily, setting up his grotto on site – and he’ll bring his team of elves with him.

Little ‘uns will get to meet him, will receive a present lovingly wrapped by his team of helpers, and can be transported to a magical space with an original Christmas story.

When: December 11, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, with timed entries daily between 9.30am and 3.30pm.

Cost: £8 (£5 for those with an annual pass)

Book: delapreabbey.org

Willen Hospice

For five-days only, Santa will be setting up his grotto in the gardens of the Milton Keynes Hospice, ably assisted by his ever so nice elves. Open to all ages and absolutely everyone who wants to meet the man with the best beard in show business...

When: December 16-20

Cost: £15

Book: willen-hospice.org.uk

Delapré Abbey will be hosting Santa from December 11

Enjoy a vintage Christmas with Santa at Bletchley Park from November 26

You’ll see hundreds of Santas at the Willen Hospice Santa Dash

centre:mk

The city’s shopping centre has a new themed Santa’s Grotto for 2022. centre:mk has teamed up with Penguin books to deliver an immersive, wonderful adventure with The Snowman. Visitors will experience the story of how The Snowman comes to life and embarks on that magical adventure, which is an integral part of the perfect family Christmas for so many of us.

The experience will last for up to half an hour (and includes decorating a Christmas Elf biscuit) including that meeting with Santa – and he will have a quality gift for each child he meets.

When: November 18 – December 24

Cost: From £13.75 for children and £5.50 for adults.

Book: centre:mk.com

Northampton’s Grosvenor Centre

Santa’s Grotto will be open to little visitors and their families and when you splash the cash to meet him, you’ll be doing a good thing to help others – all proceeds will be given to swell the coffers of the Mayor’s charity.

When: From November 26 with the chance to meet the man every Saturday and Sunday, 10.30am-4.30pm in the run-up to the festive season. There will be additional openings too; from Monday, December 19 to Thursday, December 22, again between 10.30am-4.30pm.

Cost: £1

Book: northamptonbid.co.uk

Bletchley Park

Step back in time and enjoy a vintage Christmas at the home of the Codebreakers. The mansion and Codebreaking Huts will be dressed in decorations and we have been advised there may be some cheeky elves about the place too!

Visitors will meet Father Christmas in his Vintage Christmas Grotto, and will return home with a special gift from him.

When: November 26, December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22 & 23 (Relaxed Grotto being held on November 27 and December 21).

Cost: £10.50 per child

Book: bletchleypark.org.uk

Stanwick Lakes

Father Christmas will be in his grotto over the weekend of November 19 & 20, meeting fans (and maybe using his spot in the tranquil place to do a little bird watching if time allows). He will be busy in the week planning his annual trip, but will be back at the grotto every weekend until Christmas.

More details to be announced at stanwicklakes.org.uk

Santa Dash

Granted, this is slightly different from the aforementioned Santa appearances – you won’t be going to a Grotto, but the gift of seeing 100s of people dressed as Father Christmas is priceless. The annual fundraising event helps swell the coffers of Willen Hospice, and they need to raise a whopping £9 a minute (or £4.7 million a year) to deliver free care to the city.

Every participant in the Santa Dash is therefore asked to raise £50 to help support their remarkable efforts. Though it is called a dash, if you’d rather walk your way around, that’s cool too, and delightful doggies are welcome to attend with their owners.

The event – taking place at Willen Lake North – is the only place you’ll get to see a ‘sea of santas’ and fingers crossed the new extension will be complete and serving refreshments.

When: Sunday, December 18, 10am

Cost: A minimum of £50 donation Register: willen-hospice.org.uk

Whilton Locks Garden Village

Father Christmas will be settled in his grotto and ready to meet children of all ages in the lead up to the big day.

The meetings with Santa last for 10 minutes and children will be given a premium gift...so long as they are on the nice list!

When: The man in red will be resident from November 26 and through to Christmas Eve.

Cost: £14.99

Book: whiltonlocksgardenvillage.com

The centre:mk has The Snowman as the theme for its Christmas display this year

Father Christmas will be settled in his Grotto at Whilton Locks from November 26

Meet the jolly man in red at MK Museum from December 2

Time to party!

Are you looking to celebrate Christmas with your work colleagues or need somewhere to host a big family get-together?

Stadium MK can help you with that.

You want your festive party your way, and DoubleTree by Hilton will make it happen.

Whether you are looking to bring together 100 or 600 of your nearest and dearest, Stadium MK has the right room and dates are available throughout November, December and January.

Your guests will receive a festive arrival drink, a three-course dinner or grazing menu, crackers and party novelties and a private bar.

For quotes and enquiries call the Festive events team on 01908 364170 or email through the website stadiummk.com

Rushton Hall Hotel & Spa in Kettering is hosting special Christmas Party Nights this December. The evenings will comprise a drinks reception in the ballroom, prior to dinner and festivities with a live swing singer and DJ and dancing, all hosted in the spectacular new Orangery within the history rich setting.

There are three party dates to choose from –on December 2, 16 & 17.

To take a peek at the menu and secure your seat for a special night visit rushtonhall.com

Kettering Park Hotel & Spa will host a luxurious Christmas Ball, a party evening delivering fabulous entertainment with disco and casino tables, and a three-course festive feast.

The hotel’s dedicated staff will be going all out to ensure that your evening is a night to remember. Make an exciting event even more special by staying at the hotel – no need to curtail the enjoyment by waiting for cabs to take you home. Instead, you can simply head to one of the rooms for a relaxed night’s sleep... followed by a filling breakfast.

Kettering Park Hotel & Spa offers a life of luxury at their Christmas Party Nights and the opportunity to stay and enjoy all of the facilities they have to offer guests

Aside from the breakfast, your accommodation also allows use of the hotel spa. Bliss!

Christmas Ball events will run on November 19, 25 & 26, and December 2, 3, 10, 16 & 17.

Perhaps you would prefer to welcome in the new year in style – and Kettering Park Hotel has that all wrapped-up for you too; You’ll enjoy afternoon tea in the restaurant, and use of the spa before getting ready to spend the evening in the beautifully dressed Rutland suite.

Champagne and canapés will be served, while a Scottish piper starts the evening, which will be followed by a five-course dinner, and then dancing to the resident DJ.

To book and for more details head to ketteringparkhotel.co.uk

Rushton Hall Hotel & Spa

Hanging around for Christmas

We love seeing Christmas wreaths adorning doors –they look all smart and inviting in equal measure.

But why spend lots of money on one from a store when you can sign up for a Christmas Wreath workshop organised by The Parks Trust and create your very own?

Better still, all the materials needed to make your wreath will be natural and harvested from the parks in Milton Keynes.

Your wreath will be made from hazel and dogwood, yew, ivy and other seasonal greenery.

No previous experience is necessary, and aside from taking home your festive ‘crown,’ you’ll also learn skills that you can take with you and use year in, year out.

Refreshments will be served in seasonal style; a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie will help the creative flow!

No need for booze? No worries – nonalcoholic alternatives will be available.

The two-hour sessions will be running on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, December 8, 9 & 10.

To book, visit theparkstrust.com

Over in Northampton, Delapré Abbey invites you to partake in its wreath making sessions using natural materials which will be foraged from the Abbey grounds.

Sessions run at 10am or 2pm on December 5, 6, 10, 11, 17 &18 at a cost of £20 per person – numbers are limited to a maximum of 14 for each session, so don’t ‘wreath’ it too late before booking!

Visit delapreabbey.org to join one of the sessions.

Make your own Christmas Wreath at The Parks Trust organised workshops on December 8, 9 & 10

At Whilton Locks Garden Village in Daventry, you can book up for a wreath making workshop which will begin with a talk and demonstration from their horticultural experts to get you ready to let your inner florist flourish.

The gardening hub will provide everything you need to produce your own wreath to take home.

Energy levels will be kept up with homemade soup of the day and a warm baguette and tea and coffee included in the price. You are invited to get creative on December 1 or 2.

Book at wlgv.co.uk

Stanwick Lakes Craft Fair

Wellingborough’s wildlife haven will welcome many artisan sellers and crafters selling a variety of products – from pet accessories to clothes and candles during the weekend of November 19 and 20.

The visitor centre will also be suitably festive and the café will be selling traditional Christmas gifts.

For more information visit stanwicklakes.org.uk

‘Tis the season to be thrifty!

The cost of living crisis has caused stress and anxiety for a great many people in 2022 and, sadly, Christmas looks set to exacerbate those worries still further. But it’s worth remembering that first and foremost, Christmas is a time for togetherness, not a time for increasing debt.

The joy you will feel by being too free with the plastic cash for a few days of fun simply isn’t worth the trauma that will follow in the new year.

Christmas can still be a success on a shoestring – and if you have children, they will never remember what they didn’t get for Christmas, but they will cherish those times of togetherness.

It’s important to set a budget, and then stick to it.

Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the season of goodwill for less.

Be realistic

If you can’t afford to buy this year’s must-have toys, paying for them on the ‘never-never’ isn’t ideal – because you will have to pay eventually, plus interest.

If your children are young enough to know that Santa is visiting, they are young enough to appreciate whatever he leaves for them.

Look online for bargain buys from the online auction sites, check the online sales of your preferred stores and stay tuned – many shops offer flash sales or special days with super reductions at short notice.

And how many extended family members and friends do you splash the cash on, but seldom see throughout the year?

With the constraints on our money, 2022 is the ideal year to have a conversation about cutting back – they will welcome your honesty and quite possibly be glad of it. Martin Lewis has been telling us to do this for years!

Secret Santa

It doesn’t just have to be a bit of fun in the office – it can be a great way to ‘do’ Christmas at home too. Everyone agrees on a spending amount, pops their name into a hat and takes the name of another. You then purchase an item for your recipient.

You might choose to keep the cost low, or maybe you’ll spend a larger amount, but only buy a gift for that one person – everyone will still receive, but the piggy bank won’t be broken in the process.

Let’s be honest, the boxes often prove just as popular with young children as the contents!

Real tree, or not real tree, that is the question...

If you have a plastic tree, make it work for you. When you throw your tree out for the dustmen it’s destined for landfill which is terrible, so keep your ‘fake’ trees and love them – after all, they are only used for a couple of weeks annually!

If you really must have a newbie this year, please consider donating your pre-loved one to a charity for resale – or offer it free online. People will be only too pleased to come and collect from you.

And what of real trees? In December they are paraded in windows looking spectacular, and yet come January, the sad piles of dumped trees are a depressing vision.

If you have a real spruce in the house during the festive period, you have a responsibility to dispose of it properly – and if you live in Milton Keynes, for a suggested donation, Willen Hospice will take it off your hands.

Every year they increase the postcodes they collect from – keep an eye on their website (willen-hospice.org.uk) to see if they will be collecting in your area – they’ll be out and about between January 6 and 8.

Decorations

The price of some baubles these days can be as much as buying someone a gift. It’s enough to make you choke on your advent calendar choccie!

A tip for next year – buy decorations in the January sales. They are slashed in price in time for the Boxing Day sales, and if you don’t mind waiting longer you can pick up fabulous adornments for pennies. Some of the biggest savings can be found in the biggest stores.

But what about this year? Make do with those you already have languishing in the loft or at the back of the cupboard, and encourage the kids to get creative.

And start saving those empty toilet roll tubes right now; a little bit of sticky paper and some felt tip pens can transform the tubes into ace Christmas decorations, or you could use them to make crackers. Much cheaper than buying in the shops, recycled and you choose what goes inside, meaning no terribly cheap plastic trash!

Paper snowflakes are another easy to do craft activity and the kids will love seeing their creations hanging at home – perfect decorations for minimum expenditure.

Food

Food prices have risen enormously and the nation’s collective purse has felt the pinch, but it is still possible to shop for a food bargain this Christmas.

Here are some ways to make the cash go further:

Pick up the in-store magazines

They often have money off vouchers for new products, and some even offer free items within their pages.

Cash in those store cards!

We all swipe when we shop, but do you know how much you’ve got on your cards? It’s free cash, so use it to purchase any treats – and always look out for special offers rather than popping the first things you see into the shopping basket. It’s an easy way to make the money work even better for you.

Buy own brands

These are often made in the same factory as those premium brands, and it’s impossible to taste the difference. In fact, the only difference you’ll notice is that your wallet isn’t quite so light.

Compare prices online

By doing a quick sweep of supermarkets online, you’ll be able to see where the best special offers are from the comfort of your sofa.

Lots of stores offer big discounts on wine and champagne if you buy in bulk. Why not split the cost and the fizz between yourself, families and friends? You’ll all be quids in.

Check sell-by dates

Confectionaries will often have long dates on - buy when they are on special offer and set aside for Christmas.

Seek help if you need it

Christmas time can make things seem all the more difficult, but please reach out for help. Food close to and just past its sell-by date can be taken for free from the many Community Fridges that are in the area, which is a great way to prevent waste, and if you are struggling to feed your family, Food Banks are there to help.

Please make the connection.

It’s simple, if you are fortunate to have enough food, consider giving a little, and if you need some help, take a little.

Be neighbourly

Fewer of us than ever know our neighbours today, but there really is nothing stopping you from offering a mince pie or sharing a glass of mulled wine across the fence.

Please make an effort to check on elderly or vulnerable people too – a small gesture could make all the difference, and it’ll make you feel good too.

Make your own decorations out of things you can find

Bake some mince pies and share them with a neighbour

Nothing beats the excitement of going to choose a Christmas tree but make sure you recycle real trees in the new year

Compare prices of supermarkets to get the best deal on your Christmas food

All the fun of the Fair

Find out for yourself why so many people love shopping at The Festive Gift Fair and return every year… bring on the Christmas cheer!

Christmas isn’t just about buying gifts, it’s making sure every corner of your home looks fabulous and your table is set for a festive feast! All of which can be found at this much loved Christmas shopping fair returning to the NEC, November 17-20 for its 26th year!

Often the most time-consuming part is finding unique presents but there’s no need to be stuck for ideas this year! Get your Christmas off to a cracking start at The Festive Gift Fair and you’ll see how fun and easy Christmas shopping can be!

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be caught up in the excitement of the day, exploring 300 stalls (over 100 new stalls this year!) overflowing with thousands upon thousands of clever gift ideas and decorations at affordable prices. The variety is huge, with something for everyone. To get you into the Christmas spirit, while you’re shopping at the fair, you can enjoy a whole line-up of fantastic musical entertainment to get your toes tapping!

Back by popular demand is David Julien, finalist of The Voice UK, The Grinch, The Stilt Jazz Band, choirs and more! And of course, Santa will be there along with his fabulous sleigh… plenty of photo opportunities!!

It’s no wonder The Festive Gift Fair is the most popular Christmas shopping event in the heart of the country… here’s a little sneak preview of some of the goodies you’ll see …

Santa will be making an appearance at The Festive Gift Fair

Eat, Drink And Be Merry!

Christmas is the one time of year when everyone can over indulge a little. At The Festive Gift Fair you’ll find a whole array of delicious artisan food and drink to sample, before you buy.

New for this year

The Panettone Store will be selling mouthwatering panettone in beautiful Dolce & Gabbana designed tins. A perfect dinner party gift.

Add a little heat to your cooking with Leithal Hot Sauces …hot, tangy and fruity sauces and even a mojo rub!

WIN ONE OF FIVE PAIRS OF TICKETS

Just answer this simple question... at what venue is this year’s The Festive Gift Fair taking place?

Email your answer to nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk Subject: NN Gift Fair along with your name, address and contact telephone number.

The closing date for entries is: October 31, 2022

>> Want to find out more, then click to: www.festivegiftfair.co.uk

>> Advance adult tickets are priced from just £6, children 5-16 years £4, under 5’s free . Book online at www.theticketfactory.com group tickets available (15+ adults)

Getting Christmas wrapped up

The ever-popular Handmade & Vintage event will return to centre:mk between October 28 & 30 (during usual shopping hours) with its usual array of retro, unique and antique stalls offering a real opportunity to shop smart and find that truly one-off item for a loved one.

From teddies to jewellery, clothing, records (and even jukeboxes) to soaps and fragrances, tempting tipples and novelties, H&V has the lot, with fashions, original art, homewares and ceramics and glass also included.

In all, more than 130 stall holders will be vying for your attention which makes it the perfect place to get Christmas all wrapped

up in advance – and many stallholders will be happy to discuss bespoke orders and commissions. H&V will also return to Rushden Lakes for two pre-Christmas weekends – on December 3&4 and 10&11 for more of the aforementioned.

Shop Saturdays between 9am and 6pm and Sundays, 10.30am-5pm.

For more information visit mkhandmadeandvintage.co.uk

We are all feeling the pinch after a year of obscene rises. It’s worth remembering that charity stores are great for bagging bargains of new and pre-loved items, and Milton Keynes is brimming with charity shops – head to outlying towns; Olney, Newport Pagnell, Stony Stratford and Bletchley, and remember that Willen Hospice has a new location inside The Point.

Christmas cards aren’t as popular as they used to be, but we’re pretty sure they would never have fallen out of fashion if all the designs were as lovely as those gracing the annual Willen Hospice cards

Festive images of popular local spaces adorn their cards – purchase from one of their many stores locally. And if you want to keep Christmas simple, why not pop in a Winter Draw ticket or one of the Hospice’s scratchcards as a little gift?

Pantos are coming... Oh yes they are!

Christmas shows are as much a part of the festive season as mince pies, Christmas trees and carols – and there is plenty of choice for you. Make your selection and go book a seasonal treat...

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Starring: Lesley Joseph, Rob Rinder and Paul Chuckle

Milton Keynes Theatre December 10, 2022 – January 8, 2023

Book: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Jack and the Beanstalk Starring: Keala Settle, Bob Golding and Alex Lodge Northampton Derngate Theatre December 9, 2022 – January 2, 2023

Book: royalandderngate.co.uk

The Night Before Christmas Starring: The clever folks at Polka Theatre Northampton Underground November 25 – December 31, 2022 Book: royalandderngate.co.uk

Snow White Starring: A cast of pros are waiting to make you boo, hiss and laugh lots!

The Old Savoy, Northampton December 9 – December 31, 2022 Book: theoldsavoy.co.uk

The Adventures of The Little Red Hen Starring: Members of the leading family theatre brand, Stuff and Nonsense

The Stables, Wavendon December 19-24, 2022

Book: stables.org

Christmas Fair

Delapré Abbey will host its own Christmas Fair, with unique, handmade gifts from carefully selected stalls in the historic setting. It will be fantastically festive, with the house smartly dressed for the season and food, drink and children’s activities all on the menu.

Entry is £1 per person (under 5s go free) plus a donated food item – because Christmas is the time for giving, and this year more than ever we need to help each other.

Collected items will once again be given to Northampton Hope Centre and Food Aid Far Cotton to help tackle poverty. If those that can, give a little, it really will help a lot.

The Fair will run the weekend of November 26 &27, and again on December 3 & 4, between 10am and 4pm.

Entry is staggered – for more information see the website – delapreabbey.org

Jack and the Beanstalk Starring: Matt Montfort, Adam Borzone and Will Frazer Castle Theatre, Wellingborough December 3-31, 2022 Book: parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

Potted Panto Starring: A cast of characters The Core, Corby December 7-11 2022 Book: thecorecorby.com

Santa’s Christmas Rescue! Starring: Santa, Rudoph, Ellie the elf and her best friend Izzy The Core, Corby December 12-24 2022

Book: thecorecorby.com

The Handmade & Vintage event returns to centre:mk between October 28 & 30

Illuminating times

Stony Stratford

The town will be bathed in light with the return of the traditional parade of handmade lanterns travelling from York House to Market Square via the High Street , which this year takes place on November 26. The theme for the event – the first time it has been held since 2019 – is Monster Christmas, which encompasses cartoon monsters, monsters from film and TV, classic monsters, mythical monsters or indeed any other that you can create – let your imaginations run wild!

Please leave Rover at home – the streets can get very congested, and it will prove stressful for pooch, and for you too.

You might choose to make your lantern at York House (with sessions happening on November 12 &13, and 19 & 20) or purchase a kit so that you can get creative in your own home.

The CLASS (Christmas Lights at Stony Stratford) Committee have organised the Switch-On Fun Day.

At 10.30am, a Stony Stratford Story Stroll will wander around the town with Red Phoenix, and children will be able to try their hand at juggling, unicycling, tight-rope walking and other skills in the company of Concrete Circus. Funfair rides will be tempting you on the High Street and in Market Square, together with the many other stalls.

Add in food and drink, and Watlingfest, bringing music to the Market Square between 11.30am and 4.20pm with a good mix of genres ready to go live, and you’ve got the perfect lead up to the big switch-on.

Check in at stonylights.org for the latest updates.

Candlelit Tours

Ok, so this isn’t a light switch-on, but Northampton’s Delapré Abbey will be glowing by candlelight, as you’ll see if you book your space on one of the special out-of-hours tours. You’ll learn more about the Abbey’s history and its people while also getting to explore some of the many nooks and crannies of this most special building.

Tours will run on December 1, 7, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 21 and 22.

Get more details at delapreabbey.org

Stony Stratford takes on a carnival atmosphere with its parade of handmade lanterns

Delapré Abbey will host an illuminated woodland trail from Nnovember 17 to January 2

Winter Light Trail

Enjoy a breathtaking, illuminated woodland trail with an array of magical light installations with a new trail experience spanning more than a mile and quarter of stunning woodland, walled garden and grounds of Delapré Abbey.

The perfect way to light up your life, and there’s plenty of time to enjoy it – the trail will run every Wednesday to Sunday (4pm8.40pm) from November 17 to January 2.

Independent food vendors, an Aprés Ski bar and children’s funfair will also feature.

To book, visit delapreabbey.org

centre:mk

If you want to attend centre:mk’s switch on, the date for the diary is Friday, November 18 – which is also the opening night of its Santa’s Grotto.

Beginning in City Square at 4.30pm there will be entertainment and guest appearances from the cast of MK Theatre’s panto Snow White who will be coming along to help with the festivities, while everyone awaits the arrival of Santa.

When he arrives, the parade will begin –travelling the length of the centre to his grotto in Middleton Hall.

Just one question: As Santa and the cast of Snow White will travel together, will they go off to work with a hi-ho-hi-ho or a ho-ho-ho?!

Wolverton Lantern Festival

This isn’t a light switch-on either... but it will be a glorious parade of light when the Lantern Festival makes its return in 2022 after an enforced absence of two years on Saturday, December 3.

Food and drink vendors will be serving up good things from 2pm, live music will sound out from Foundation House and if you fancy picking up new tricks, Kester the Jester will be hosting free circus skill workshops between 2.30pm and 3.30pm.

The MK Community Choir and Wolverton Town Band will also be showing out on the day.

The parade will begin from The Square at 4.30pm, and this year’s theme is minibeasts, perhaps giving a nod to many of our delicate species that are essential, but under threat.

Hopefully that will inspire young minds to support our beasties and bugs, and it will certainly make for an array of wonderful lanterns.

Of course if you want to take part in the parade, you’ll need a lantern and kits will go on sale in local outlets (Mrs B’s Emporium, Maisies and at the MK Christian Foundation) from the end of October for £4. Alternatively, step up for one of the public-making workshops happening at The Old Bath House on November 6, 13 and 27 between 2pm and 5pm. No need to pre-book.

Get more by visiting FB @wolvertonlanternfestival and tell them we sent you.

Northampton Christmas lights

The switch will be flicked on November 26 at the annual event in the Market Square, and the festivities will continue across town, with businesses being encouraged to get creative with festive themes window displays, all coming under the theme of Mischievous Elves – dozens of elves are expected to pop up in shop windows.

And, while not Christmas lights related, we have to mention the 24-hour Christmas radio station which goes live for the start of advent and will pump out seasonal delight at the University of Northampton, the Grosvenor Shopping and at town centre businesses.

Newport Pagnell Christmas Lights

Newport Pagnell Christmas lights have been bathing in the town in a festive glow annually since 1960, when Early Beatty of Chicheley gave the command for that inaugural switch-on.

Today, the event is a chance to bring the community together with a day of stalls and fun ahead of the switch-on, which this year is taking place on Saturday, November 26.

Historic Northampton comes alive with the switching on of the Christmas lights

The big switch on at centre:mk coincides with the arrival of Santa on November 18

Northampton Christmas Lights

Tree-mendous times

If a real tree is set to be a focus of your family Christmas in 2022, you won’t do better then choosing it straight from the field at Stoke Goldington Christmas Trees who have the perfect tree to ‘spruce’ up your abode, just waiting for you to discover it!

You’ll stroll the field of plenty and choose your very own, British farm-grown tree which the team at Stoke Goldington Christmas Trees will cut down for you.

And there’s no need to stress about getting it back to the car – the team promise they have plenty of helpful elves on hand to help take the tree back to the farmyard where it will be netted, helping getting it into your car a breeze!

Refreshments will also be served by Really Awesome Coffee (Saturday) and Good Times

Cafe (Sunday) and if you are wondering where to get your holly and mistletoe from, there are plenty of both of those for sale too, together with tree stands, logs and kindling.

The farm also makes its own range of The Fruity Farmer fruit gins, liqueurs and rapeseed oils which will be available for purchase. They make ideal stocking fillers, secret Santa opportunities, or buy for yourself – because you deserve it!

Visits to the farm begin on Saturday, November 19 and run for the five weekends before Christmas, on Saturdays and Sundays, with two Friday openings, 9am-4pm.

There is no need to pre-book.

To check the full list of dates visit stokegoldingtonchristmastrees.co.uk

Wolverton Winter Fair

Willen Hospice: Care at Christmas

The care at Willen Hospice is important all year-round, but perhaps even more poignant at Christmas time. For many of our patients, this could be their last Christmas. Our teams go above and beyond so families can make those all-important memories that they will cherish forever.

A Willen Hospice Christmas means our Willen at Home team visiting patients on Christmas day so they can spend it at home with their families. It means Christmas dinner served with all the trimmings and a cheery smile to patients and their families at our lakeside In-Patient Unit. Or a friendly voice on the other end of the phone, for those spending their first Christmas without a loved one. We can only do this thanks to your support

Why our nurses and doctors are the greatest gift of all

Joy Butler, Willen at Home “Working at Christmas is just like any other day for us. We go out to visit the patients that need our care, or we speak to families over the phone to offer advice and support. Caring for patients and their families is the most important thing, no matter what day it is.”

Support Willen Hospice this Christmas

There are many ways you can support us whilst ticking off a few items from your Christmas shopping list. Our shops are bursting with bargains including Christmas party outfits as well as our charity Christmas cards and Lottery Scratchcards* - a fun table favour or stocking filler! And for the person who has everything, a Lottery subscription for our weekly draw is the perfect gift that keeps giving all year round.

Made in Stony

Get your Christmas gifts, cards and confectionery sorted in one fell swoop –with a trip to York House on December 3. Shop there between 10am and 4pm.

We also have a whole host of festive events to keep you busy over the Christmas period. Celebrate the life of a loved one at our Lights of Love on Saturday 3rd December at The Ridgeway Centre, enchant the children with Santa’s Grotto from 16th – 20th December, or get the whole family Santa-suited up for a walk, run or jog around Willen Lake North at our Santa Dash on Sunday 18th December.

*Over 18s only

The old railway town will host its Winter Fair on the weekend of December 10 & 11 in The Square, with stall-holders selling their goods out of festive alpine huts. Entertainers and food vendors will add more flavour to the traditional shopping opportunity.

Stoke Goldington Christmas Trees offer you the chance to choose your tree straight from the plantation

Your support can help the team at Willen Hospice provide the patients with the extra care and support they deserve at Christmas

How to choose post-surgery lingerie

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is only the first step on the road to recovery. Post-surgery, ladies are often left struggling with feelings of insecurity over their new shape and many don’t realise how much correctly fitted specialist lingerie can do to boost confidence and restore their pre-surgery silhouette.

Happily there are many ways to ensure that you keep your confidence after having breast surgery and as long as you have selected the right piece for your personal situation you can feel confident in your shape and still enjoy activities like swimming and going on holiday to the beach.

Eloise has a fitting suite at Furzton Lake Milton Keynes and has been providing women who have had various forms of breast surgery with beautiful lingerie and swimwear since 2015. Our styles cover a wide range of price points to suit all pockets and include the latest fashions from brands Anita, Royce and more.

Additionally we can offer you a selection of breast forms, and partial forms, including special swim forms for ladies who want to return to swimming or sporting activities post-surgery. As well as suggesting a few starter styles for you, our specialist Bra Fitters, Lisa and Hazel look forward to welcoming you for a free of charge bra and swimwear fitting at your convenience. Why not call us today on 01908 340 094 to book your appointment and see how Eloise can help you with your postsurgical bra and breast form needs.

Having a specialist bra fitting with a retailer is usually the best option for both lingerie and breast forms but if you can’t get there then Eloise have put together a few tips on what to look for that might help you to find your perfect pieces of post-surgery lingerie online.

Open Day at Eloise

We are having an open day on Tuesday October 25, 8am to 8pm.

There will be samples on sale and an opportunity to view the fitting suite and learn about what we do. We are asking everyone to wear masks inside the building.

• Wide comfortable and adjustable straps – this is crucial to reduce the risk of Lymphodema developments.

• Good separation between the cups, with a deeper centre that sits against the breastbone along with deeper cups to ensure the breast form is secured firmly and cannot be visible if the wearer bends forward.

• Deep side wings under the arms and no stiffeners so they do not rub or chafe on scar tissue from lymph gland removal.

• Appropriate depth in the cup to accommodate the breast form

• Pocketed to house the breast form

• Comfortable and soft fabrics and seams

• Generally wire free – on the advice of surgeons

• Multi-sectioned or pre-formed cups generally give a better and fuller shape.

>> If you would like to browse our collections of post-surgical lingerie and swimwear please visit our website at www.eloise.co.uk where you will find styling options. Alternatively to make a private appointment for a bra or breast form fitting please call 01908 340 094

Bra fitters, Lisa and Hazel are there to advise you in making the right choices our

Sit in the relaxed and comfortable fitting suite situated at Furzton Lake

Chilling beauty for Halloween

It’s the most monstrous time of the year and irrespective of whether you are all about the ‘tricks’, or would prefer to ‘treat’ yourself, Lush has an array of awful(ly) good bathroom goodies to ‘creep’ it real.

on a not so fun ride you’ll remember!

The gift set include Cyclops and Alien bubble bars, Ghostie and I Want My Mummy bath bombs and two sheets of spooky stickers.

How about celebrating the scariest time of the year with a terrifying trio of vampire inspired treats?

Get in a flap with Bat Art, which comprises a Bat Art bath bomb, Bubble Lugosi bubble bar and a Vampire Kisses lip scrub.

Perfect treats for twilight bathing. We think it’s a simply fang-tastic selection!

RRP: £20

the mess of carving? Then skip that and purchase Lush’s Punkin Pumpkin instead.

‘The witching hour brings nightmares crawling. To make the shadows retreat and recoil, fizz this ghoul of bright citrus oils.’

RRP: £5

(Lush products are available from their stores at centre:mk in Milton Keynes and the Grosvenor Centre in Northampton)

This is the only spider we will ever want to find in our bathroom!

The Tarantula jelly arachnid comes with activated charcoal, rainbow glitter and a cherry amaretto fragrance. You’ll not find another aromatic spider, that’s for sure. This one is hair-free too, of course, and he’s Vegan Society approved and self-preserving.

Time to make friends with the eight-legged fella.

RRP: £8

Feeling stressed? You need a long soak in a hot tub with a Lush bath bomb to keep you company, and Screamo is just the job. Watch your fears fade into cobalt blue waters with this ghostly bomb, or take Ghostie as your bathing pal.

A rainbow spectrum of citrusy fragranced water pushes him along your bath with eerie cracking sounds, thanks to the filling of popping candy, Sicilian Lemon Oil and Lemongrass Oil. One minute he’s there, the next he’s gone.

There’s nothing to be scared of. Honest.

RRP: £5 (Screamo) £4.50 (Ghostie)

Do you feel like getting down and earthy? The Lord of Misrule Shower Gel is just the job, with mischievous black peppercorn and patchouli. Skin will be softened with carrageenan seaweed, and put simply, you’ll no more be the fool after a session in the shower with this!

The fragrance is also available in a bath bomb, body spray and candle.

Get it: Starting at £8

Mini strudel doughnuts

METHOD

1. Prepare your filling. Add all ingredients, but the filo pastry, to a bowl and combine. Set aside.

2. Pre-heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Lay the filo pastry on a work surface or chopping board and cover with a damp cloth to prevent this drying up.

3. Take one sheet and brush with the melted butter, and cut vertically to create two rectangles.

4. Starting from the side closest to you, or the shorter side, lay a thin layer of the mix and start rolling like a cigar. Join the ends to create a doughnut, brush with more butter and place on an oven tray lined with parchment paper.

5. Repeat the process with the remaining pastry. You should end up with 12 small rings.

6. Once all the rings are ready, dust with icing sugar and bake until golden brown. This will take approximately 12min but appliances vary, so use your senses.

7. Serve with a lovely cuppa, with a little more dusting of icing sugar if desired.

One to Watch finalists are here!

With Just under four weeks until Northamptonshire’s hand-picked premium producers and businesses within the food and drink sector come together for a dazzling celebration evening where winners of all fifteen categories will be announced, the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards team are celebrating the finalists for the One to Watch category.

The One to Watch category is aimed at food and drink manufacturers whose businesses are less than five years old and is designed to recognise their potential for major growth, their future significant impact on the market and thereby raising the profile of Northamptonshire at a regional or national level. Whitworth Bros Ltd, sponsor of ‘One to Watch’ is a proud family owned business and Europe’s largest flour millers. With its pioneering past and a focus that is very much on the future, it makes for a perfect sponsor.

One to Watch finalists gathered at Whitworths Bros Ltd QI Centre in Wellingborough. Qualifiers had an opportunity to put forward product samples, present a short presentation about why their business should win the accolade and finally answer questions from the panel. Finalists were asked ‘How will your growth raise the profile of Northamptonshire and English food

and drink? Finalists also had a chance to acknowledge their biggest successes in hope of impressing the judges. Kim Osborn, Technical Accounts Manager for Whitworth Bros Ltd said ‘Once again there are outstanding businesses in this category showcasing the food and drink sector. We were so impressed with their determination and resilience over difficult times which makes us proud to sponsor this category’.

Finalists for One to Watch are:

▸ Jute Coffee Limited

▸ Nakasero Foods

▸ Nasty Vegan Ltd

▸ Northampton Cheese Company

▸ The Flavour Trailer

The finalists only have until Wednesday 12th October to discover their fate when the winners and runners-up in all fifteen categories of this year’s competition will

be announced at the Royal and Derngate theatre.

NN Pulse are proud to be a media partner in this category.

The Nasty Vegan –Rob Henson

DIGGING DEEP

Those of you who planted the seeds back in the spring, and who managed to keep them well watered during this year of record breaking temperatures should be receiving the fruits of your labours around about now – with plenty of ripe, plump pumpkins to be had.

They are relatively simple things to grow, so long as water is forthcoming and they are sheltered from biting winds. They are sun worshippers too, so pick a cheery spot with lots of space to grow.

Pumpkins also deliver a pop of colour at a time when mother nature is being pretty dreary.

If you’ve never tried to grow a pumpkin, you’ll have to wait until April before getting involved, when the seeds should be sown, or if you’d rather opt for a plant, check in with your garden centre to see what they have on offer.

Seedlings can be sown indoors, and transported outside later, or plant them where you want them from the get-go – by popping two to three seeds in each hole. If you do it in May, you’ll be fine.

Cover with jars or sheeting for a couple of weeks, and then thin them – leaving only the strongest to flourish.

If you sow inside, move outdoors in June, and be prepared to nurture.

The water needs to get deep down to the roots - if you end up with a squelchy, rotten ‘kin, it’ll likely be the result of too much water resting at the base. Better still, when the fruits

grow, place them on glass to keep them away from the wet soil.

Frost will damage the pumpies, so always harvest ahead of the first frost.

Provided you allow them to harden – in the sun, or in a greenhouse for seven days or so –pumpkins can stick around for a long time.

But to cook or to carve? That is the question!

>> Visit The Patch MK for their annual ‘pick your own’ spectacular, which is open weekends beginning October 1, and then daily from October 19-30.

There are more than 50 different varieties to choose from, and in excess of 85,000 have been planted!

“Without doubt this is the hardest year I have ever had to contend with as a farmer,” Joe Gurney told us. “The hot dry weather has made life for our crops very difficult. However the pumpkins are looking well, they have flowered well and are now growing a plentiful stock of fruits. We have lots planned to make it a special year. An early picked pumpkin uncarved will last for months so if you want to get the best choice, come early and store until needed.”

Visit thepatchmk.co.uk

Some of the usual gardening advice is a little different this year, after those record-breaking, and quite devastating temperatures. But as we try to take a step back to normality, remember to get busy with the bulbs; and we don’t just mean flowers!

Now is the ideal time to plant garlic. Nestle it just below the surface of the soil, about one inch will be perfect, and space the cloves between 10 and 15cm apart.

Central European folk beliefs considered the pungent bulb to ward against werewolves, devils and vampires, and in ancient Egypt, workers responsible for those majestic pyramids were fed garlic daily.

Garlic is known for boosting our immune system and its antibiotic properties, so the old Welsh rhyme, ‘Eat leeks in March, wild garlic in May, all the rest of the year the doctors may play,’ may have some substance.

Get planting!

How does your garden grow?

The lawns are green again! It is time to scarify, either with a border fork or an aerator. Leaves should be raked off frequently and kept for precious leaf mould.

The borders should be lightly forked over, enriched with Growmore and mulched with garden compost.

I have replenished the compost in pots, tubs and wall baskets, and replanted with Narcissus Tête-à-tête under pansies, violas and primroses

The cuttings of pelargoniums, penstemons and lavenders are rooting in modules in the greenhouse. Prepare to insulate it, should we have a traditional winter.

Look after wildlife in the garden. Windfall fruit left on the ground is food for Blackbirds, Fieldfares and Red Wings. Clean out nest boxes, wash and refill bird feeders and keep them topped up.

The water level in the pond is low after the long, dry summer. I will top up with rainwater from the butts or refill it gradually, using tap-water slowly over a few days to allow the alkaline tap-water to become more acidic. Cover your pond, if you can, with netting to keep out falling leaves.

Ralph Westmoreland, member Denton & District Gardening Club

> 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.

Water levels in ponds can be topped up with rain water from water butts.

Getting to grips with Window Energy Ratings

The cost-of-living crisis is encouraging people to look at ways to reduce their energy bills. There is little point in turning down the thermostat if heat is escaping through your old windows and doors. Adrian Timbers, Sales and Marketing manager at T&K Home Improvements, gives an insight into energy ratings with windows and what customers should consider

So, what are Window Energy Ratings?

Window Energy Ratings provide an outline or overall value for how energy efficient a window is. They take into consideration the thermal efficiency, solar gain and the air leakage of the window. Windows are rated using a scale to symbolise the total energy efficiency of the windows. Where an ‘A’ rated window is the highest rating in energy efficiency and a ‘G’ rated window has the lowest rating in energy efficiency. Window energy ratings are tested and approved by independent organisations, so you need to be sure that a manufacturer can verify the performance claims of their products. This rating is designed to be used specifically as a guide to help consumers choose between window systems based on the overall energy performance of the windows and give them an idea of how likely they are to save money on their household bills when installing these windows.

Who came up with Window Energy Ratings?

Window Energy Ratings (WER) are governed by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC). The colourful graph, pictured, is a guide to a window’s level of energy efficiency. This rating features in the key components including the glazing, level of heat loss and air leakage. All factors that will determine the windows’ level of energy efficiency. The higher the window energy rating, the better the window’s energy efficiency and thermal performance. When buying windows always make sure that the company has a WER rating which you can search for online and is verified from an independent body.

Is having high performing windows worth the cost?

There is a cost factor when considering the energy rating for new windows. Naturally, the higher the window’s energy rating, the higher the price but this needs to be considered alongside how much money will be saved on energy bills.

So, what is the right choice for your home?

The scale ranges from A++ to B at the top end, and C to G at the bottom. This is a decision only you will be able to make when presented with all the facts, but our advice is simple. Consider all the options with a professional company who has all the accreditations and certifications – but the general rule is the higher the rating on the window the more thermally efficient it will be, and the higher the savings you will make from rising energy bills.

Energy efficiency made easy

Fortunately, the experts at T&K can help you with a wide range of energy efficient windows and doors made in their own bespoke factory in Wellingborough where

they are now providing tours as well as having a revamped showsite with 15 Living Spaces demonstrating their products. Plus, with their flexible monthly payment plans, it’s a great way to buy now and pay later, spreading the cost and saving on energy bills straight away. If you are interested in learning more about how you can save on your energy bills or if you’d like to discuss our window options then they would love to hear from you.

>> To find out more visit their Wellingborough Showroom at Huxley Close, Park Farm South, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, NN8 6AB

T&K Home Improvements is a family run business that has provided quality windows, doors and conservatories since 1979 in Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas. To find out more about high performance energy efficient glazing options and how much you can save visit our website: www.tkhi.co.uk

Window Energy Ratings provide an outline or overall value for how energy efficient a window is. They take into consideration the thermal efficiency, solar gain and the air leakage of the window

A one-minute guide to looking after your garden this winter

Looking after your garden in winter can be a challenge, especially once the colder months bite and the temptation is then to avoid your garden or outdoor space, because it is just too cold outside!

However, there are a few things you can do (storms and snow permitting) to help your garden flourish during the colder months.

Follow our quick guide to looking after your darden in winter and it won’t be too much of a chore, we promise.

Be ruthless with old plants!

It is not just for aesthetic reasons that you should get rid of dead plants and leaves, it is also important to stop pests and diseases spreading in your garden. So, get your gloves on, wrap up warm and get your pruning shears out. Brave the elements for the good of your garden and ditch the old foliage.

Get pruning

Pruning is an important task not only to keep flowers and plants under control, but also to promote healthy growth. Prune in winter, such to remove dead wood, shape a tree or shrub while its frame is still visible before leaves emerge, or just keeping the plant healthy.

Protect your garden assets

It may seem obvious, but don’t forget to put away or cover up your garden furniture.

Looking after your garden in winter includes your patio table and chairs, portable BBQs and hot tubs. If you leave it too late, your beautiful garden accessories will be ravaged by snow and rain.

Think about spring

Look ahead. Yes, spring might seem a while

off yet (and you might be craving the warmer climes too) but now is the perfect time to plant bulbs ready for spring. Some of them actually thrive in colder temperatures, such as daffodils and tulips. There are lots of different types of bulbs though, which require different treatment. Always check the label.

Be prepared

For those of us who enjoy spending time outdoors whatever the season, we often wish that garden maintenance including pruning, and planting, could just magically happen. Sadly though, there’s no such thing as a garden fairy.

What there is however, is low maintenance fencing: ColourFence

ColourFence is the perfect solution for your garden; Aesthetically attractive, ColourFence comes in a range of colours and styles and is practical too – if you get our metal fencing installed this autumn you won’t have to worry about all the upcoming winter storms. ColourFence stands strong in gusts up to 130 miles per hour.

ColourFence is guaranteed for 25 years. That’s one less thing to worry about during the winter months.

>> For a free no obligation quote call 01803 449 009 or visit www.colourfencenorthampton.co.uk

Is a Kitchen re-spray the new way to update and save?

Many of us have thought about repainting our kitchen cupboards as a way of refreshing them without replacing, especially now we have had more time at home lately.

But concerns over the finish achievable and how well the paint would last usually puts us off making a mess of things.

Now local company FX-SPRAY MK is offering a complete professional paint spray service for kitchens.

It is a quick and simple process that leaves your kitchen looking brand new, says FX-SPRAY MK. The company removes and sprays 90 per cent of the kitchen off site, which means that very little work has to be done in your home, in turn meaning minimal disruption. An average kitchen can be completed within a week and home owners continue to use it during the process.

FX-SPRAY MK only use specialist products and having the latest spray equipment means the company delivers that brand new factory finish. A colour matching service to all major paint brands gives a huge choice - you can even go with a two-colour scheme.

“Can any kind of kitchen can be refinished or is respraying just for solid wood?” As long as your kitchen is in reasonable condition, FX-SPRAY MK can refinish it., even carrying out minor repairs and changing handles as part of the process.

Jason Thompson, FX-SPRAY MK

‘No genre will be left untouched...’

You know those fab murals that towns and cities have to pay homage to their finest musical exports? FFSYTHO?! has one of those in Northampton.

Even if you aren’t down with grime as a genre, you might well recognise her face – the graffiti mural has been a constant outside the Grosvenor Centre for more than two years. And it’s deserved too. FFSYTHO?! is helping to put the ‘fampton on the map for a whole new generation of music fans.

Incredibly, it’s only a little over a year ago that FFSYTHO?! made her live debut at Reading and Leeds Festival. Her razor sharp tongue and forceful deliveries heralded the arrival of a new assault.

In the months since, the lady has been taking no prisoners, but piling up plenty of fans.

“It’s been absolutely incredible,” she told Pulse Music, “I’ve been doing shows and festivals up and down the country since then. It still feels surreal every time I go on stage. I’m living the dream right now.”

Small in stature, but gargantuan in sound and attitude, her words have plenty of meaning – she’s stacked up her share of experiences for use, and not all of them positive; she’s had to endure her fair share

of homophobic nonsense too, which she has talked about previously.

“Some people are just small minded, but I never let that faze me,” she told us,”Once I came out I never looked back. I could go on and on about this topic, but honestly, I don’t care anymore. I’m me. I’m her. I’m she. I like what I like and it’s as simple as that. Respect it or disappear!” she laughs, “However I have been supported by a load of good people who I appreciate.”

Earlier in the month she headlined on home turf with a date at The Roadmender, and FFSYTHO?! also played a part at the Multitude Festival in Milton Keynes. She was a late addition to a bill which was heavy with rock and alternative acts, but when she bopped through the MK manor, she made it look easy winning over the crowd.

“The Craufurd show was amazing!” she gushed, “It was another area to tick off my touring up and down the country,” she laughed some more, “I actually got an encore – ended up performing more for the people – they loved it. What a feeling!”

While she is widely referred to as a grime and rap artist, to be fair she casts her musical net a little wider than that. How do you see yourself?

“I’ve always said no genre will be left untouched,” she said, “I’m not a one trick pony. Although grime is where my heart is, I’ve got some R&B and hip hop coming. It’s my roots, so you know, it has to be done. I’ll always be dropping grime tunes,” she promised.

It’s still early in her career, but FFSYTHO?! has been prolific with single releases and there is more good stuff on the way to you: “Hell yeah! I’ve got an EP coming soon and more singles to release. I’m all about timing and dropping something when it feels right to me.

“I am literally sitting on a library of new music.”

Sarpa take over the airwaves

Sarpa Salpa’s 2022 has been pretty great – there was a triumphant stint at the SXSW showcase in the States, a performance at The Great Escape Festival and some awesome radio support.

At the end of last month their recent single, Dreaming was chosen as the BBC Introducing Track of the Week, which meant that it aired across the Radio 1 network.

“I wrote the lyrics to Dreaming about the stark emotional difference I feel from when I’m standing on stage performing, compared to the difficult times in my personal life and struggling to make ends meet,” vocalist Marcus Marooth shared, “The immense highs of touring and playing live vs the daytime realities. Later in the track it references our reliance on each other as friends as well as our partners and families whose indispensable support keeps us going.”

Having that track being opened up to such awesome radio exposure certainly buoyed the band.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to receive some really great support from Radio 1 recently on

Jack Saunders Future Artists and Indie Shows, but this was such an amazing opportunity for us to be heard by lots of people on daytime shows who had never heard of us before!” said Sarpa Salpa guitarist George Neath.

“We’d been getting ready for our tour after a pretty hectic few months and the news about Dreaming made the tour feel all the more exciting,” he added.

Seeing as George mentioned the tour, it’s only right that we give those shows a plug.

Go get your ears filled with Sarpa Salpa’s essential hook-heavy, infectious alt-indie at the following dates:

September 29 – Wedgewood Rooms, Southsea

October 1 – The Castle Tavern, Luton

October 6 – Polar Bear, Hull

October 7 – The York Vaults

October 8 – Bobiks – Newcastle Upon Tyne

October 9 – Sneaky Pete’s – Edinburgh

October 13 – The Jacaranda – Liverpool

October 14 – Bootleg Social, Liverpool

October 15 – The Shed, Leicester

October 16 – Dead Wax, Digbeth, Birmingham

Living a life of grime – FFSYTHO?!

Sarpa Salpa

A Halloween scream at The Black Prince with The BellRays

The nights are drawing in, the news is (still) gloomy, and it’s around about now that you might like to do as hedgehogs do, and start hibernating. But there is still some good stuff worth dragging your sorry backsides from the sofa for – and with energy and touring costs spiralling, venues and artists need us like never before, so jump to it...

Anyone for a spot of metalcore? Blackpool quartet Avarus are bringing their ambient soundscapes and immense rhythm sections to The Black Prince stage, setting things up right for a month of marvellous stuff (October 1).

The band issued its debut EP Parallels last year, a disc of tracks that tackles loneliness, arrogance and prejudice, but, they say, it’s done in ‘a relatable way.’

For their Saturday night shenanigans they will be joined by The Lunar, whose members span Manchester and Leeds.

Get in early and you’ll be supporting our own too – Caliburn are up first for this triple deck of metalcore. Prepare for a noisy night.

Sabbra Cadabra will pay homage to the masters of metal, Black Sabbath, focused on the Ozzy years (October 8).

You can’t see the real thing anymore (we had a little something in our eye at that final Birmingham date on February 4, 2017), so this absolutely is the closest thing to Sabbath live. Billy Sullivan was due to play for SBD promotions back in June, but that date was postponed. Instead, you can go see the former frontman with The Spitfires this month (October 15) when he kick starts his solo career,

doubtless before a keen crowd.

Support comes from high-energy garage combo The Len Price 3 who have been diligently delivering the goods for nigh on two decades now, most recently with 2021’s The Strood Recording Company EP, put out on green vinyl. A band for vinyl connoisseurs, clearly.

Next up, Millie Manders & The Shutup (October 21) are coming to town as part of their Life is a Rollercoaster tour. Don’t go expecting Ronan Keating to pop up at this show though; it’ll be a bash brimming with cross-genre punk. Grinding guitars, irresistible horn hooks and with pop appeal to boot.

Support is coming from Cosmic Ninja, a Bristol-based quartet who will wow you their shouty stuff about politics, equality and all things queer.

Can’t wait for Halloween? Then don’t – SBD will celebrate the scariest time of the year in the company of The BellRays (October 29).

This Halloween scream will be full of energy, raw talent, spirit and intellect. It’s punk, rock and soul as produced and presented by Bob Vennum and Lisa Kakaula who originally united in sound more than three decades ago.

They took influence from many artists, but imitation? That was never part of their plan – theirs is an organic trail that flows through them and their current rhythm section. The result? An honest and urgent delivery that is the perfect uniting of rock and soul.

As they say themselves, ‘Blues is always teaching and punk is always preaching.’

It’ll be a frightfully good gig by a band who are always at the top of their game, and before The BellRays stage step, sleaze rockers The Big Dirty will be on stage, following The Wax Lyrical who deliver with rap, rock and a generous shake of punk.

With it being the Halloween big-bash, punters are encouraged to dress accordingly, with prizes for the best costumes. How many Michael Myers impersonators can be expected on the night?!

Tickets for all shows can be booked by visiting sbdpromotions.com

Millie Manders & The Shutup

Avarus set the ball rolling in October

Having a scream - The Bellrays

‘Slurring’ Shakespeare!

Northampton has plenty of much-needed giggles together with gritty the Queen History a lesson Sammy Jones walks the month ahead...

The Color Purple will tell the life-affirming story of courageous heroine Celie at the Derngate (October 4-8).

Abused and oppressed throughout her youth, she embarks on a journey through joy, despair, anguish and hope as the amazing women in her life help her to discover her own voice.

While suitable for ages 14+ it’s worth noting that the production contains themes of rape, abuse and incest, racism and sexism.

All is not well in theatre-land this month, with planned visits by George Clarke and The Da Vinci Code both cancelled, but there is a tasty new arrival in place of the latter mentioned –The Two Popes (October 11-15).

Anthony McCarten, the same fella who wrote the films Bohemian Rhapsody, Darkest Hour and The Theory of Everything is responsible for this too, a piece of work that is fascinating and humorous and shines a light into one of the world’s most secretive institutions.

Nine years ago, Pope Benedict XVI stunned the world when he became the first Pope in 700 years to resign. What drove this arch conservative to break with sacred tradition and make way for a one-time tango club bouncer, football-loving reformer with the common touch?

It asks an age-old question too; in moments of crisis, should we follow the rules or our conscience? Settle down and view at The Royal.

The Queen of History is with us at The Derngate (October 15) for a look into the life of one of the most elusive and enigmatic figures of the 20th century, Agatha Christie.

She might have given the impression that she was ‘just’ an ordinary housewife, but that wasn’t the reality; Agatha went surfing in Hawaii, had a love of fast cars, and was intrigued by psychology, which helped her through devastating mental illness.

Using personal letters and papers, Lucy Worsley will explain how Christie battled obstacles to become a thoroughly modern woman.

If everyone studying history was taught by Lucy, they would walk away with an A*

This will be an incredibly engaging night out, with more than a few giggles, one suspects.

Mind control and psychological illusion will be at the heart of the matter when Derren Brown returns with his first new show in six years.

Obviously the content is a secret, but Showman (October 25-29) will leave you wowed.

Sh*t Faced Shakespeare (October 29, The Royal) is a sell-out Fringe Festival phenomenon now touring with The Bard’s Macbeth, and it unravels like this; pre-show, one cast member is selected at random and given four hours to drink before the curtain rises.

Some might say that it’s classical theatre as it was always meant to be seen - with a gin in one hand, a cup of wine in the other and a flagon of ale in the other… What could possibly go wrong?!

The company promises to ‘always enjoy Shakespeare responsibly’!

We’ve bundled the comedy together this month, because there’s so much of it – here goes: Dave Gorman brings Powerpoint To The People (Oct 1), Jordan Brookes delivers This Is Just What Happens (Underground, Oct 7), Jon Richardson asks questions like ‘Who is going to smooth over the top of the margarine?’ in The Knitwit (Oct 19) and pub landlord Al Murray presents a Gig For Victory (Oct 21).

If your face isn’t already aching from the one-liners and tall tales after that lot, there’s plenty more: Sean McLoughlin invites you to sit in a dark room while he spills the funnies in So Be It (Underground, Oct 22), the stylish Maisie Adam will be Buzzed (Royal, Oct 25) and Kiri Pritchard-McLean will tell you some Home Truths (Underground, Oct 26) before Chris McCausland arrives with Speaky Blinder (Royal, Oct 27) and Sofie Hagen rounds off a giggleridden month with Fat Jokes (Royal, Oct 29).

The Deco hits the back of the net with its famous visitor on October 6 – An Evening with Geoff Hurst. He is still the only player ever to score a hat-trick in a World Cup Final.

Sir Geoff really is a football legend, and the man who made his name with West Ham United will have plenty of anecdotes to share. For something completely different check in with Jim Davidson and his latest show, Not Yet Cancelled (October 15).

Chris McCausland and Maisie Adam appear at The Royal in October

Maisie Adam Pic: Matt Crockett

Pic: Manuel Harlan

Enjoy the classic story The Color Purple at the Derngate October 4-8

#WhatsOnPulse

MK Autumn Run Weekend

Saturday, October 1 – Sunday, October 2

The MK Autumn Run returns after a couple of years absent from the calendar, and it has four new distances.

The Run it for Willen 5K and MK10K will take place on the Saturday, with the MK Autumn Half MaratAhon and the (#NotLondon) MK Autumn Marathon on the Sunday. Trainers on: theparkstrust.com

South Northants Art Trail

Saturday, October 1 – Sunday, October 9

Free art exhibitions and art demonstrations at 18 venues, showing the work of more than 40 creatives. Making a splash: arts-sn.org.uk

Boobs & Brass and Towcester Studio Band Saturday, October 1, 7.30pm

The two bands team up and tune up for a night of fundraising for the Breast Cancer NOW charity, at the Brooklands Suite, Whittlebury Hall Hotel.

Tickets: towcesterstudioband@gmail.com

Marti Pellow

Saturday, October 1

Join the former Wet Wet Wet frontman and stage favourite when he visits The Core with his Pellow Talk Tour.

“I’m inviting you to spend an intimate evening with me – think of it as coming back to my place for a night of stories and songs...Enough years have passed for a story to be told.” Sweet Little Mystery: thecorecorby.com

Glenn Miller Orchestra Sunday, October 2

A big band with a reputation to match – join the world’s most popular big band, directed by Ray McVay, as they cut loose blockbusters including In The Mood, Tuxedo Junction, Moonlight Serenade and many more.

Chattanooga Choo Choo: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

The Lesson

Monday, October 3

Icarus’ award-winning dark comedy comes to Stantonbury Theatre, a comically surreal expose about power, knowledge and those who hoard both.

Lessons learned: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

Destrage Wednesday, October 5, 7.30pm

Join Italy’s most fascinating, furious and fiery export when they swing by Wolverton’s Craufurd Arms.

Extreme: thecraufurdarms.com

Milton Keynes National Trust Association

Thursday, October 6, 2-4pm

Meeting at the Oak Tree Centre, Wallinger Drive, Shenley Brook End, for the lecture, Lady Craven. Entry is £2 for members of the MKNTA and £4 for non-members.

More details and questions: sue-davedee@talktalk.net

Comedy Club Special Thursday, October 6

Find the funny with Gavid Webster, Fiona Allen, Radu Isac and Robyn Perkins when they take over The Picturedrome and command at the mic. This bloke walked into a bar: thepicturedrome.com

Talk: Our Hedgehog Habitats

Thursday, October 6, 7.15-8.45pm

A third of the population of the UK’s hedgehogs have been lost since 2000. Their rapid decline is terrible and so the urban parks and gardens in the new city are becoming increasingly important to these beautiful creatures. This session will help you understand how you can help them and encourage them into your gardens.

Prickly subject: theparkstrust.com

Comedian Nick Helm asks “What have we become?” in his gig at Kettering Arts Centre on October 8

Dub Pistols

Friday, October 7

The electronic/dub icons return to The Craufurd Arms in Milton Keynes in support of their upcoming ninth album, Frontline. Pistoleros are riding in: thecraufurdarms.com

Tricky Teddy’s Family Magic Show Saturday, October 8, 2.30pm

Whether child or just young at heart, you’ll not fail to get your fill of fun with award-winning magician Krisgar and sidekick Tricky Teddy with this afternoon show.

Tricky and treat: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

Nick Helm Saturday, October 8

Join the critically acclaimed, multi-award winning funnyman as he unleashes a show so insightful, so honest and so legitimate that it will fix all of society’s problems! He’s calling it the ‘What Have We Become?’ tour.

Comedy daredevil: ketteringartscentre.com

The Smyths Saturday, October 8

Tickets will fly for this show at The Craufurd Arms in Wolverton, so act swiftly or heaven knows you’ll be miserable!

Hand in Glove: thecraufurdarms.com

Sabbra Cadabra & Devil’s Ransom Saturday, October 8

One for the Black Sabbath fans among you, as the Ozzy-era tribute arrives at The Black Prince to rock up your weekend. Rat Salad: sbdpromotion.com

Bookshop Day

Saturday, October 8, 2pm

Visit Waterstones Bookstore in Midsummer Place, Milton Keynes for an event with local author Paula Harrison.

The free session for children aged 5-8 years will be based around Paula’s new book Kitty & the Vanishing Act, followed by an opportunity to make Kitty masks.

Turn the page: FB @mkwaterstones

Make a Miniature Garden

Saturday, October 8, 2-3.30pm

Build a miniature garden to take away using resources from the gardens at The Cowper & Newton Museum. Usual admission charges apply and spaces are limited. New roots:

info@cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk

Buckingham Canal Society Sunday, October 9

Help needed at nature reserve sites – a chance to get fit, improve the environment and make new friends.

Play your part:

Email info@buckinghamcanal.org.uk

Denton & District Gardening Club Monday, October 10, 7.30pm

Speaker Andrew Ward from Norwell

Nurseries will be giving a talk, ‘Ringing the Changes with Bellflowers.’ It’s free to members, visitors are welcome for £3. There will be refreshments and a raffle, and plants for sale.

Petal power: Call 01604 890875 or Email m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk

Buckingham Canal Society Thursday, October 13

Help needed at nature reserve sites – a chance to get fit, improve the environment and make new friends.

Ask where:

Email info@buckinghamcanal.org.uk

Banging tunes from the Dub Pistols at The Craufurd Arms on October 7

Bugsy Malone

Tuesday, October 11 –Saturday, October 15

Custard pies and splurge guns feature in this gloriously uplifting masterclass of musical comedy, which will be a crowdpleaser on its brief visit.

Razzmatazz: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Dave Ferra Band

Tuesday, October 11

Dave will be live at the blues church, and after a successful solo show last year, this time he is bringing his band along. Doors at 6.30pm, music starts an hour later. Check in: bletchleybluesclub.uk

The Comedy Cow Saturday, October 15

Join Angela Barnes, Steve Bugeja and Luke Kempner at The Venue MK as they bring more much needed laughter to the fore. Moo-giggles: thecomedycow.co.uk

Definitely Oasis Saturday, October 15

The Oasis tribute prepare to deliver the famous Knebworth set in full, with support from the Complete Stone Roses. Roll with it: theroadmender.com

Phil Beer Saturday, October 15

One half of Show of Hands performs at Shutlanger Village Hall. All profits to Northampton Music and Performing Arts Trust (MMPAT).

Beer for the ear: 07941 368958

Olney Historical Walk – North End Saturday, October 15, 10.30am-12pm

Discover the stories of yesteryear, including the Great Fires of Olney, and life and trades of the 18th and 19th centuries. Meet outside the Cowper and Newton Museum and pay on the day. Details: cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk

10CC Sunday, October 16, .30pm

Join Graham Gouldman and the gang for a run through some blistering tracks – I’m Not In Love and Dreadlock Holiday are among the classics set to air at The Derngate.

Rubber Bullets: royalandderngate.co.uk

King King Sunday, October 16

If you like the blues, you can’t afford to ignore these Glaswegian players, and you’ll need to be along to The Roadmender in good time to catch The Damn Truth up in support. Rock ‘til you drop: theroadmender.com

Steeleye Span Monday, October 17, 8pm

Expect to hear gems both old and new, all delivered with a burning passion and unrivalled experience when they make their Stables return. Below the Salt: stables.org

Inner Wheel Newport Pagnell Tuesday, October 18, 2pm

This month’s speaker will be from The Co-operative Housing in New Bradwell. The talk will be followed by refreshments and an update on the club’s activities for the remainder of the year, which will include a presentation from Newport Pagnell Fire Service. Members and newcomers welcomed from Newport Pagnell, Olney and surrounding villages.

Discover more: 01908 217356 or innerwheelnewportpagnell@gmail.com

Evita Wednesday, October 19 –Saturday, October 22

Company MK have spent 30 years promoting musical theatre in the city, and now they are taking on the Lloyd Webber classic, with its unforgettable staple of songs including You Must Love Me and Don’t Cry For Me Argentina. Don’t keep your distance: stantonburytheatre.co.uk

The Pitmen Poets

Thursday, October 20, 7.30pm

From Billy Elliot to Auf Wiedersehen Pet, from When The Boat Comes In to the Likely Lads, this event at The Core will deliver songs and stories laced with northeast humour and humanity. On song: thecorecorby.com

MK Western Front Association Friday, October 21, 7.30pm

A talk, ‘Bedford’s Highlanders – the Scottish Invasion of Bedford, August 1914’ by Richard Galley, being held at Wolverton Workingmen’s Social Club, 49-50 Stratford Road.Details: westernfrontassociation.com

Apple Day Saturday, October 22

Celebrate all things apple-y at the community orchard at Woughton on the Green. An afternoon packed with activities and tasty treats. A chance to learn some surprising facts about the crisp, fresh fruits. Core deal: theparkstrust.com

Sir Bryn Terfel – Songs And Arias Sunday, October 23, 7.30pm

Join Bryn as he performs songs and arias taken from a personal playlist, with music from Mozart and Wagner set to feature. Bass-baritone: royalandderngate.co.uk

Daily Story time for Half Term

Monday, October 24 –Friday, October 28

Waterstones Bookstore will be hosting daily story time sessions for youngsters throughout half term. Times to be confirmed. Word up: FB @mkwaterstones

King King bring their Glaswegian blend of blues to The Roadmender on on October 16

Staffell & Stewart

Tuesday, October 25

Paul Stewart & Tim Staffell were original contributors to the Rhythm & Blues explosion of the ‘sixties; Stewart was lead singer and harp player with legendary The Others, while Staffell was lead singer and bassist in the pre-Queen power trio ‘Smile’ with a certain Brian May and Roger Taylor. Another great night at the Bletchley Blues Club is assured. Smiles all round: bletchleybluesclub.uk

Olaf Falafel

Tuesday, October 25, 1pm

Olaf’s family event is a Super Stupid Show –and they are his words!

Ticket holders will get a drawing lesson and lots more family-friendly frivolity that will ‘leave you feeling a lot less intelligent than when you walked in.’ General nonsense: thepicturedrome.com

Northamptonshire County Federation of WIs – AGM

Wednesday, October 26

Nick Bailey is a leading plantsman and garden designer from the BBC’s Gardeners World, and an author and writer with many great anecdotes, some of which he will share when he steps up as guest speaker at the AGM, which is being hosted at Northampton High School for Girls.

Sowing the seed: Call 01604 646055 or Email admin@ncfwi.org.uk

Rich Hall Wednesday, October 26, 8pm

Montana’s transatlantic messenger is back in play at The Royal with new rants and knifeedge observations.

You might ‘pay for the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge of it’ is the promise. Nailing It: royalandderngate.co.uk

A Murder, Mystery and a Man Marooned Thursday, October 27, 2.15pm, Friday, Oct 28, 7pm, Sat, Oct 29, 2pm

Join the MKU3A for their current stage delivery, three one-act plays being hosted at Marsh Drive Community Centre, Great Linford. Acting up: Email TAP@mku3a.org or call 01908 501563

Buckingham Canal Society

Thursday, October 27

Help needed at nature reserve sites – a chance to get fit, improve the environment and make new friends.

Find out more: Email info@buckinghamcanal.org.uk

Unsuitable for Women

Friday, October 28, 6pm

Author Carrie Dunn will be in conversation about her book, Unsuitable for Women: The Rise of the Lionesses & Women’s Football in England, Waterstones Bookstore, Midsummer Place, Milton Keynes. Hat trick: FB @mkwaterstones

When seven British ladies decide to take an educational writing course in sunny Spain, relationships develop and tales are told. Their young tutor Gareth is out-numbered, out-manoeuvred and completely outclassed by his manipulative pupils.

Wednesday 26, Thursday 27

and Friday 28 October at 7.30pm

Hardingstone Village Hall, Hardingstone, Northampton, NN4 6DA.

Tickets: £9 available from Box Office, telephone 07521 389025 or email boxoffice@hardingstoneplayers.co.uk or book online via TicketSource (booking fee applies) ticketsource.co.uk/hardingstone-players

FB: @thehardingstoneplayers

Harry Hill: Pedigree Fun Sunday, October 30, 7.30pm

Bonkers and brilliantly funny, Harry is back and gives audiences the chance to meet his new baby elephant, Sarah, and Ian, The Information Worm. His sidekick Stouffer the Cat will also put in an a-purr-ance.

Stand up: atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

Delapré Spooktacular

Sunday, October 30, 4-8.30pm

The Abbey will welcome you and your little monsters to a family-friendly spooktacular –watch out for fearsome creatures and ghostly apparitions from the Abbey’s past as you make your way around the house before collecting your trick or treat goodie bag.

Terrifying fun: delapreabbey.org

The Mirror Crack’d Monday, October 31 – Saturday, November 5

Miss Marple is back on the stage, with Susie Blake, Sophie Ward and Joe McFadden doing justice to the Agatha Christie favourite, when it comes to The Royal.

Murderous: royalandderngate.co.uk

Susie Blake plays Miss Marple in The Mirror Crack’d at The Royal from October 31 - November 5

Long live the MPV

If you thought MPVs were dead, think again. BMW and Mercedes are probably the only brands with Multi-Purpose Vehicles in their line-up after everyone jumped to building crossovers. But if you need a family lugger, the 2 Series Active Tourer is well worth a look.

Prices start from just over £31k, and the ‘Luxury’ trim seen here packs some hefty options, which lift it to £39,500.

Once you set aside the new ‘marmite’ grille that’s afflicted nearly the entire range, the 2 Series Active Tourer isn’t a bad looker. Large slab sides give it presence, while the rear could almost be mistaken for one of the brand’s larger SUVs. It offers a refreshing alternative to crossover after crossover.

just as punchy as a 2.0-litre lump, even with only 170hp. There are more potent options with a 223i bumping power to 218 hp and two plug-in hybrids which go up to 326 horses.

For an MPV, the sporting nature of the BMW brand shines through; while ride comfort can be stiff and jittery at lower town speeds, faster-paced work on motorways and dual carriageways makes for a much smoother ride.

Handling is also rather sharp for such a vehicle; it’s refreshing for an MPV to be this pointy and agile, with a responsive turn-in, making the Active Tourer a joy to hustle along in. You can also add the xDrive all-wheel drive system on the 223i model, and the plug-in hybrids come with it as standard.

In terms of performance, this three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol engine is turbocharged and feels reviews

Hopping in the driving seat, you’re rather perched, like sitting on a dining chair. It’s not a bad thing and was perfectly comfortable; it’s just not the norm compared to crossovers, with the extra height in the Active Tourer giving you the ability to sit properly instead of legs forward and high.

Although the underpinnings of the Active Tourer are the same as when it was launched in 2014, the model has been refreshed this year and includes a totally new interior, taking inspiration from the iX SUV.

A buttonless interior means everything is controlled by the

10.7” infotainment screen; there are volume controls on the steering wheel and a tactile roller on the armrest. But apart from that, you’re left digging around in the infotainment system, and with no iDrive jog wheel, it’s all touch-based.

Back to the armrest though. When you open it, it hinges toward the passenger. Making it a total pain for the driver to stow or retrieve anything. It’s also an oddity that the gear selector is over on the passenger side of the armrest… the whole thing is a left-hand drive setup that’s not been switched for the seldom few right-hand markets. Come on BMW.

There’s also plenty of room wherever you sit in the Active Tourer; even the largest of adults will be comfy on longer journeys. Storage is plentiful too, with the front door bins easily accommodating large 1-litre bottles.

At the back, boot space measures 415 litres on this 220i, but space will vary depending on the engine choice as the hybrid tech is squeezed in under the boot floor.

As a family wagon, the 2 Series Active Tourer is a strong contender, with more interior space than a comparable crossover and a low, lip-free boot to lug all of life’s paraphernalia. In addition, it’s well priced with a wide range of engines and optional extras.

You might want to opt for a plug-in hybrid over the regular petrol to up those MPGs; we only saw 30mpg around town, which was a way off the claimed WLTP of 44.8 to 47.9.

ADAM TUDOR-LANE reviews the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

The interior of the 2 Series Active Tourer is not without its down-sides

The 2 Series front grille - you decide!

View from the Far Kerb

If all I had to worry about was the hair on my head, then life would be much easier. I have hair and it is less grey than many of my age. Therefore one might be of the opinion that there is no need to be concerned.

Many of my family have gone very grey in their late twenties/ early thirties; except my brother and me. In fact, I decided that if my head was still devoid of grey when I reached my current age, I would ‘touch it up’ with streaks of grey about my ears etc.

Haircuts reveal a hint of grey throughout these days, so I have no worry on that score.

However, the hair topic still bothers me, but why? Could it be my beagle? How could it not be my beagle?

Owners will tell you that beagles shed hair and lots of it. Not only do they leave it and fluff all over the place, they have coats that feature long spears seemingly determined to embed themselves into various materials. Sofas, car upholstery, clothing, and soft furnishing –they all seem to attract those long hairs. Using a vacuum cleaner is a waste of effort. Beagle hairs seem as to be threaded through the weave of whatever material has suffered their presence. The only solution is to vacuum thoroughly before brushing it out vigorously and then painstakingly picking out the remaining hairs with tweezers.

Not a quick or easy job. It is simpler to ban my beagle from getting up on furniture or riding in the passenger compartment of the car.

Having no carpeting is a boon. Wooden floors mean no carpet to capture and trap beagle hairs for perpetuity. Unfortunately it means that ‘toy beagles collect in corners of the room. Walking across living areas results in little tufts drifting about due to drafts caused by the sweep of one’s feet.

I can take him to the local park and brush him with my

bare hand while he is lying down.

On a windless day a beagle-sized pile of hair will form behind him. The scary thing is that the hair just never stops coming off him and yet he never looks any different.

That is when his hair loss is normal. At seemingly random times in the year he has a tendency to moult. When that takes place, tufts of hair appear on his back and can be plucked from him. The ‘fur babies’ that litter the floor end up having more body and need stronger puffs of air to make them move across the floor. They certainly don’t drift.

There is an upside. Whenever I get the vacuum cleaner out to remove evidence of his existence about the place, he will come running. If there is anything that rivals his ears being scratched or chicken treats, it is being vacuumed. He adores it, but really I wish it would suck hair from him before it becomes part of the floor or whatever he touches. O’HARA

Your stars

Flavour of the Times - As ever, October brings the astrological beginning of autumn. In nature, Virgo has been the period of harvesting what has grown in the time since the spring, so that the storehouses are full and we are ready for the winter. The new moon in Libra at the autumn equinox (23rd September, actually) is the point at which the hours of darkness start to become longer than those of daylight and nature begins the process of decay back into the soil ready for rebirth next year. This is a valuable time and adjustments should be planned now. Don’t expect massive creativity to be bursting out during these months: save your energy, think about the resources you will need next year.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

Balance and justice are key words for Libra, a sense of what is the right thing to do. You find this easy enough where other people are concerned but much more tricky for yourself. Like the scales which is your symbol, you tend to have too many options in your head at any one time and can’t always make you mind up. But, hey, how important is some of this stuff anyway?

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

It’s not quite the time for your famous ferocious emotional intensity – next month. Instead, a more balanced view can be achieved, with no real sense of urgency this month. Balanced consideration of the options may be something to think about but keep it light and rational, especially around 12th when you may be surprised and a bit knocked off balance.

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 – December 22

Early in the month you may feel challenged when emotions and actions get a bit confused with each other. It will be too easy to react badly to something so make sure you avoid sending any of those emails to people late at night in anger! Your confidence will be stronger mid-month but again, you allow emotions to cloud your judgement at your peril.

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

Pluto resumes forward movement in your sign early in October which will enable you to feel a little more future oriented. However, I think this is more about tying up loose ends rather than any new initiatives. It’s also the autumn so energies are subsiding and its not a time to stick your head over the parapet.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

Quite a good month for detached and balanced observation of events now. It’s a time for thinking but not necessarily actions. On the other hand, try to resist talking people to death about your amazing ideas. Take it easy, think things through and just store up a few basic thoughts in the back of your mind about how you would like things to go later on.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

Going with the flow will have to continue this month as Neptune and Jupiter are still stopping any real progress and may be pushing you back upstream rather than down. This energy still has some way to go but the intensity may be cranked up around 25th of the month when the Scorpio new moon stirs some passions.

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

Things you want to do may feel as if they are slipping through your fingers as October ends. This is down to Jupiter backing into Pisces out of your sign for a while. But don’t lose your grip. Opportunities always return and this just isn’t the moment to push forward too strongly. Ease back on the accelerator, observe the speed limit and look out for speed cameras!

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

Follow the advice of William Morris: ‘don’t have anything in your house that is not either beautiful or useful and preferably both’. Both Taurus and Libra are both about elegance, beauty and values but perhaps that is always in the eye of the beholder and may be an illusion on some level. Take it easy until you can see what the truth really is.

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

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

Keep an eye on 15th of October. It looks like a particularly nice day for you Geminians. You may meet someone beautiful, as Venus and the Sun are together in Libra (although I guess you might buy a beautiful piece of art instead!). It’s an airy, light energy and so thinking about things and communicating your ideas is very much favoured.

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

Pluto has been a long challenge to you and your need to change some vital aspect of your life. It turns direct this month which may ease the pressure – perhaps a house sale actually goes through after hassles and disappointments? It’s a bit tricky again around 20th when stresses and tensions mount. On the other hand, you are probably out of the danger zone now.

LEO

July 24 – August 23

Thrashing around wondering why people aren’t giving you the recognition you think you deserve? Maybe you are now Prime Minister and things aren’t going the way you planned and you are looking for someone to blame?

My advice is: buy a mirror and take a long, cold look in it and consider how you may have contributed to this situation.

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

Now that you have put things into boxes, files, store rooms and generally organised the product of your year, you can turn your thoughts to what you have learnt. We never manage to achieve as much as we hoped but life moves on regardless and it is time to give yourself some satisfaction with what has happened. Small steps are as valuable as giant ones now.

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.

GET INVOLVED...

We are always looking for local stories, news and events. Send your stories to: nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk

For the latest local news visit: nnpulse.co.uk or scan the code.

HOWARD