There has been a significant rise in demand for electric fires in recent years. A fantastic design feature for modern interiors, electric fires afford the user a state-of-the-art, ultra realistic flame display with the added bonus of little to no maintenance compared to other fireplace options.
Modern components give the appliance an indefinite lifespan and so it’s important to ensure that you select an electric fire that is right for your home, and your needs.
We spoke to Andy Hitchman, Managing Director of Solution Fires, who advises on several key considerations to be made in choosing the perfect electric fire.
Everyone’s homes and room configurations are different, and there are an array of different sizes and widths to choose from, however it is important to pick a fire that is right for your space.
There is a fire to suit every home within the new Solution Fires LUX range, which is our latest line of innovation, with models varying from the LUX75, 100, 125, 150, new LUX175 and the LUX200 for a grand centrepiece. Our new LUX electric fires even allow homeowners to create the extra wide ‘wow factor’ fire element, which can be achieved by sitting any of the LUX range of cassette fires side by side. Front, corner or panoramic options are available, providing endless possibilities.
Electric fire technology has come a long way, but there is still a big variation in flame effect quality, and things like flicker speed and flame height have a big impact on how realistic the fire
looks. Go for a model with crackling fire audio, as this really gives you the look and feel of a real fire. Featuring Solution Fires’ signature high definition, ultra realistic contoured flame effect technology and crackling fire audio, the LUX range offers a visually stunning effect and unparalleled authentic experience.
Many people want to be able to tailor their fire to suit their interior design style and individual taste, and having a customisable element to your fire is a big benefit. Offering a truly bespoke solution, users can fine tune the LUX display with seven new pre-set illumination themes, and a choice of nine independent
fuel, flame and downlight colours which can be adjusted by brightness plus a premium, handmade fixed real wood log fuel bed.
> Shop the Solution Fires range at TJS Installations in Northampton Unit A, Pentagon Park, Lodge Farm Ind. Est. Northampton NN5 7UW
www.tjsinstallations.co.uk
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8-4pm Sat 8-12noon Sun - Closed
British Cycling and West Northamptonshire Council have teamed up to raise our local profile as an international sporting hub. They’re also promoting sustainable travel and community wellness. Look out for international sporting events, including future Women’s and Men’s Tour of Britain stages.
For those who relish a blend of trivia and tantalising curries, the second Curry & Quiz Night awaits you next month. This delightful event, curated by Northamptonshire Health Charity, aims to amass funds to bolster our local NHS hospitals’ patients and staff. Can’t attend? You’re always welcome to contribute with an online donation.
History aficionados, mark your calendars! This month ushers in the anticipated Heritage Open Days. From 8th to 17th, immerse in rich history — be it a visit to the venerable St Peter’s Church in Marefair or exploring the captivating Deco or Playhouse Theatre.
Join Lavi, Ollie, and their trusty motorcycle, Bumblebee, in their riveting journey to Rio de Janeiro. As they wrap up their South American odyssey, Central America beckons. Along with their thrilling escapades, they ardently support the Born Free Organisation.
If observing butterflies under the sun spells bliss for you, don’t miss Sammy Jones’ insightful chat with David Chandler, our local entomology maestro, who’s ardently working to stem their dwindling numbers.
We’re thrilled to introduce our revamped website, nnpulse.co.uk. Envisioned as your local digital nexus, it’s brimming with news, tales, reviews, and guides. For all things Northamptonshire, it’s your go-to. Organising an event? Feature it on our platform at no cost. Take a look and let us know what you think.
Enjoy the last but best of the summer.
Read previous editions online: www.pulsemagazine.co.uk
01604 935300
nnpulse@pulsegroupmedia.co.uk
17 Stilebrook Road, Olney, Bucks MK46 5EA
September 2023
FINISHED READING? PASS PULSE MAGAZINE TO A FRIEND OR PLACE IT IN THE RECYCLING.
NN Pulse is distributed door to door to 22,000 homes and businesses in: Ashton, Blisworth, Brafield-on-the-Green, Bugbrooke, Chapel Brampton, Church Brampton, Collingtree Park, Collingtree Village, Denton, East Hunsbury, Gayton, Grange Park, Great Houghton, Greens Norton, Hackleton, Hardingstone, Horton, Little Houghton, Lower Harlestone, Milton Malsor, Moulton, Nether Heyford, Pattishall, Piddington, Preston Deanery, Quinton, Roade, Shutlanger, St Georges Fields, Stoke Bruerne, Upper Harlestone, West Hunsbury, Wootton, Wootton Fields,
British Cycling and West Northamptonshire Council unite in a groundbreaking two-year partnership, aiming to spotlight the region as an international sporting hub while championing sustainable travel and community wellness.
West Northamptonshire is gearing up for international spotlight, following a twoyear partnership agreement with British Cycling. This collaboration, backed by UK Shared Prosperity Funding, will transform the region into a major hub for international sporting events, including future Women’s Tour and Men’s Tour of Britain stages.
Key aims of this alliance include:
Supporting Cyclists: Commitment to aiding cyclists and para-cyclists with world-class expertise.
Eco-friendly Ambitions: Aligning with the council’s goal of achieving net zero by 2030 through promoting cycling as a sustainable travel option, reducing congestion and enhancing air quality.
Infrastructure Enhancement: Working in tandem with active travel improvements being installed along Abington Crescent, Bridgewater Drive, Rushmere Road, and Brackmills in Northampton.
Community Engagement: Introduction of a community development officer role this autumn to foster and
maintain community ties while championing cycling programs.
Cllr Adam Brown, the council’s deputy leader, emphasised the partnership’s dual purpose: promoting sustainable travel and a healthier lifestyle. “This reflects our ambition to encourage more sustainable travel options and offer opportunities for a more active lifestyle,” said Cllr Brown.
British Cycling’s regional manager, Nick Barr, is optimistic about the region’s cycling prospects. “This will pave the way for diverse cycling opportunities, welcoming people of all ages and abilities,” he said. The partnership also has plans for local cycle rides, family cycling events, ‘pedal parties’ and a deeper integration of disability and para sports into community fabric.
Cllr Brown further commented on the pre-existing investments in cycling and sports facilities. “This partnership amplifies the full potential of these facilities, enhancing physical and mental well-being while nurturing a passion for cycling.”
‘This will pave the way for diverse cycling opportunities, welcoming people of all ages and abilities’ - British Cycling’s regional manager,
For individuals and businesses, we remain...
These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.
The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a lightall fully fitted in less than a day from just £444! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our watchwords
are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.
Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.
Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been
referred to us by our existing customers - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.
At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’
So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9552 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!
Franklins Solicitors, a prominent legal firm with offices in Milton Keynes and Northampton areas, is excited to announce the launch of its annual charitable initiative – the Franklins £50 Challenge 2024.
The challenge is set to take place from 20th February to 21st May 2024, and the firm is inviting local charities to step up and nominate themselves for the opportunity to be one of the six selected beneficiaries.
Already backed are Milton Keynes’ Willen Hospice and MK Act, and Northampton’s Hope Centre and Cynthia Spencer Hospice. Franklins Solicitors aims to onboard an additional charity from each area.
Celebrating its seventh year, the £50 Challenge is a significant platform for charities to partner with businesses and communities in raising funds. The 2024 theme, ‘Fighting hunger, fuelling wellness, changing local lives,’ underscores the campaign’s dedication to community impact.
The challenge’s uniqueness lies in its fundraising method: each team receives £50 from Franklins Solicitors and has three
Franklins Solicitors amplifies its commitment to community wellbeing with the return of the £50 Challenge for 2024, inviting more local charities from Milton Keynes and Northampton to collaborate and make a lasting impact.
months to multiply this for their charity. The initiative garners both financial backing and heightens local awareness for change. Having raised £100,000+ since 2018, the initiative demonstrates the power of united efforts.
Rosanna Stimson, marketing manager, commented on broadening the challenge’s scope: “After immense success this year, and great feedback, we wanted to enhance the campaign’s reach. We prioritise charities addressing the cost-of-living crisis and community wellbeing due to their widespread impact.”
For 2024, Franklins Solicitors has widened its invitation to Milton Keynes or Northampton charities that align with these themes.
Interested charities can submit their applications by emailing: marketing@franklins-sols.co.uk
The deadline for charity nominations is Friday 29th September.
Established for over 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows have become the UK’s leading company for domestic glass replacement. Customers are no longer needing to replace their complete window frames, instead, now they can join over 320,000 happy customers and have their glass replaced and/or upgraded in an affordable and ethical manner. Remember, a failed glazing unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing? If you act now you can avoid any future costly problems.
When talking to Trevor & Wendy Skidmore the owners of Cloudy2Clear Northampton & Oxford it became clear that these values have been held for over 16 years. Since buying the local franchise in 2006 they have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community whilst introducing their 2 sons Lloyd & Ross & daughterin-law Lori into the family business along with Dan, Tom & Jo as demand for their service has grown.
The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the
unit has failed. Trevor commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.
For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www.cloudy2clear.co.uk.
Navigating the complexities of medical negligence can be overwhelming. In this article, Wilson Browne solicitors delve deep into the realm of clinical negligence in maternity care. From the heartbreak of stillbirths to the longterm consequences of birth injuries, they underscore the importance of understanding and addressing the tragic repercussions of subpar medical care. Offering guidance on potential legal recourse, this is a must-read for those seeking clarity and justice in such grievous situations.
It seems like hardly a month goes by without another news story where people have not received the medical care and attention they needed. Whether it’s diagnosis and treatment for cancer, or sad situations involving care during pregnancy or childbirth, it never makes for good reading, but what do we mean when we talk about Medical Negligence (aka Clinical Negligence)?
Medical negligence can occur during any interaction a patient has with a medical professional when care falls below the standard expected causing damage as a result, which otherwise would have been avoidable. In terms of maternity errors this can include any of the following (and more):
• Stillbirths;
• Cerebral palsy;
• Injuries to mother;
• Failure to advise when a caesarean section may be required;
• Failure to deliver the placenta;
• Delays in delivery causing birth defects;
• Perineal tears.
Birth injuries can occur through harm caused to you as a mother which has led to avoidable illnesses for your child or physical damage to either of you, as well as inadequate aftercare.
Negligent care can cause brain damage to the child during birth, which can lead
to cerebral palsy, affecting the child’s balance, speech and movement. This happens through a variety of errors including failure to monitor foetal development or recognising when a baby is in distress during labour, which can lead to a lack of oxygen to the baby. When this occurs, the aftercare the child receives also plays a large part in minimising the long-term damage.
Injuries can also occur to a mother during childbirth, including failure to remove all the placenta. Sometimes the placenta does not remove itself naturally and manual evacuation is required, and if not completed in full, retained placenta can lead to a lot of pain and discomfort for a mother: in some cases where a C-Section was performed, this may be negligent.
Communication between healthcare providers and patients is crucial, as negligence can occur through failure to diagnose or appropriately treat complications during pregnancy and
childbirth, which causes avoidable injuries. Midwives and doctors owe a duty of care to both mother and baby, but mistakes do happen, and in these circumstances, the consequences can be grave.
As a rule, you have three years from the date of the negligence in order to bring a claim, however, if you are bringing a claim on behalf of a child you have until their 21st birthday.
Injuries to a child at birth can result in the child needing life-long care which comes with a heavy financial burden, so it is important to seek proper advice which can often be done on a no win –no fee basis.
If you or a loved one has faced complications during childbirth due to medical negligence, it’s essential to know your rights contact us for a free consultation on 0800 088 6004
Charlotte Toms
The Hawthorns adjoins open fields yet is close to amenities such as shops, restaurants, a leisure complex with a pool and excellent transport links. With spacious studios, 1-bed, and 2-bed apartments, all with kitchenettes, en-suite shower and flat-screen TV, it’s a safe and secure community with round-the-clock management and call system. A range of outstanding on-site facilities includes a library, clubhouse, short mat indoor bowling, cinema room, hair salon, and therapy room.
An established and expert rental retirement operator in the UK, having first opened a service some 25 years ago, the Hawthorns maintains a unique approach to retirement living, where you can join a friendly community of like-minded people. Instead of purchasing, the all-inclusive rental model avoids hidden costs such as ground rent, service charges, and maintenance alongside costly ‘exit’ fees.
The welcoming Hawthorns in Northampton, recipients of the prestigious Hospitality Assured award for its first-class services, provides quality independent living for the over 70s.
The all-inclusive rental model offers clarity, easy planning, and flexibility, and you can sample the lifestyle with a trial stay offer. There are no charges for property repairs, gardening costs, utility bills, council tax, internet charges, weekly housekeeping and bedlinen laundry, or transport costs on days out in the private minibus.
There are three high-quality restaurant meals daily, hot and cold refreshments throughout each day, plus a full calendar of events, exercise classes, day trips and activities to keep the mind and body active and support you to stay healthy. Well-being Co-ordinators are on hand to arrange a wide variety of stimulating and engaging social events. Recent activities include an Art, Literature and Film Festival, with pottery workshops, a variety of guest speakers and a selection of short films from the Northampton Film Festival.
“We believe the Hawthorns is an ideal solution to independent living. As soon as we arrived, we knew we liked it very much. It is the best life for us, and it could not get any better. Why, oh why didn’t we do it sooner?! We like the location and local amenities and there’s plenty to do with outings and activities if you wish. Staff here are very caring and helpful, and we feel part of the community.”
- Audrey and David Barlow, residents at the Hawthorns Northampton.
>> Call 01604 553596 to request a free information pack or visit hawthornsretirement.co.uk
Calling all quizzers and curry lovers! Northamptonshire Health Charity is excited to be hosting its second Curry & Quiz Night at the Mewar Haveli fine dining Indian restaurant on Wellingborough Road, Northampton. The charity is raising funds for equipment and projects that enhance patient care and support staff wellbeing in your local NHS hospitals across the county.
Join the team for a fun-filled evening where you can bring a team of 2 to 6 people. Not only will you get to take part in the quiz but your entry fee also includes a delicious meal freshly prepared by Mewar Haveli – starters, choice of mains, sides, rice and coffee. Tickets cost £25 per person with £10 going directly to the charity
The money raised will fund equipment, projects and initiatives that help make a difference to both patients and staff at Northampton General Hospital (NGH), Kettering General Hospital (KGH) and the community hospitals and mental health services under Northamptonshire Healthcare Foundation Trust (NHFT).
From cutting-edge equipment for cancer surgeries at NGH; to Reminiscence Interactive Therapy Activities providing more patient-centred care for the elderly at KGH; and a Therabike for Hazelwood ward at Isebrook Hospital in Wellingborough that is helping patients recovering from neurological and mobility conditions, and lots more. Your support makes all the difference! Other recent projects supported include refurbishing the family room at the Serenity
Sexual Assault Referral Centre (NHFT), a dedicated space for staff wellbeing (NGH) and a rehabilitation garden space for patients receiving Intensive Care (KGH). Once again, the event is being sponsored by Commsave Credit Union. For more information and to book your tickets visit https://northamptonshirehealthcharity.co.uk/ events/curry-quiz-night-october-23/
> Make a donation online at northamptonshirehealthcharity.enthuse.com or contact the charity team by calling 01604 626927 or email greenheart@nhcf.co.uk
Scan the QR code to book for the Curry Quiz Night >>
This September, Northampton will once again mark Heritage Open Days with a wealth of events to lure you away from the sofa and into the fresh air!
Hop aboard the bus with Jeyes of Earls Barton and enjoy a network of free tours, and naturally these buses are vintage. You don’t need to book, and you’ll be able to enjoy some of the hidden treasures across the county, which are free to enter too. The wheels on the bus will go round and round all day long, well, between 9am-5.30pm.
Click to jeyesofearlsbarton.co.uk for details.
St Peter’s Church in Marefair has a history dating back to the 12th century, but the Grade I listed building was closed in 1995, and recent efforts to make it work as a heritage landmark haven’t been successful due to the lack of facilities.
The Norman building has many points of awesome architecture, and the churchyard
Heritage Open Days is an opportunity to engage with activities suitable for individuals, children and families, spanning exhibitions and workshops, walks and tours, open days and craft events and performances.
And at a time when the purse strings are being tightened more than ever before, it’s a delight to be able to say that every event can be enjoyed for free!
> The full programme can be found at heritageopendays.org.uk but over the following four pages, Pulse’s Sammy Jones shares some of the enticing events. Dig deep and enjoy.
is the resting place of William Smith, the Father of English Geology.
The Old Black Lion public house which overlooks the church, is a Grade II listed building which ceased trading five years ago. It will be open for HODs, but you’ll not get a pint of the wet stuff!
The long term goal is to restore the pub and have it once again serve the community, which in turn will benefit the church – the project should be completed by March 2025. Today (and Saturday, September 9) four public tours will be hosted on the site – each will cater for a maximum of 10 people, so you do need to be quick with the booking. Tap to visitchurches.org.uk
St Matthews Church, on St Matthew’s Parade, was designed by local architect
Matthew Henry, who delivered a 13th Century Gothic style holy house. Artworks there include Henry Moore’s Madonna.
Pop along and soak up the architecture, today and through to Sunday, September 10, between 12.30pm and 4pm (and again between Friday, September 15 and Sunday, September 17).
Peek online: stmatthewsnorthampton.org.uk
For the first time, Lamport Hall is partaking in the HODs, and visitors will have plenty to take their attentions; in the hall some of the conservators responsible for restoring elements of the collection in recent years will be giving a demonstration, and there will be a workshop by Lincoln Conservation, a talk and demo by Landi textiles conservators and a book conservation demo.
If you’ve always fancied trying your hand at the art of stained glass window making, Claire Seely Glass Design will be on hand to assist, and share her expertise.
Youngsters won’t be left out either, with hands-on crafts for them to get involved with, Georgian characters to meet and a Historical Legacies treasure trail.
You can try croquet on the lawn with Northampton Croquet, watch the Morris Dancers getting jangly or even have a go at horseshoe tossing!
On top of all that, more than 200 pieces of art will be on display by local creatives. Get involved between 10am-4pm.
Visit the tranquil Tudor manor house Canons Ashby near Daventry and explore the stunning gardens, the historic house, the medieval church and maybe enjoy one of the pop-up talks being offered on site.
The tearoom will be serving light lunches and cream teas to fuel your visit!
No booking necessary, and the house will be open all day. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk
Let the boat take the strain and enjoy a two-hour trip on the water with a canal trip entering into Blisworth Tunnel, and commentary along the way so you’ll learn loads as you relax.
Well-behaved owners with pets will be welcome, but it’s not suitable for young children.
Crusader Community Boating will depart Blisworth at 10am and 2pm.
Pre-booking is essential. Email heritage@crusadercommunityboating.org.uk
The Nene Valley Festival will roll out by the riverside starting today and running through to September 23. Get more details at nenevalley.net/about/festival
Northampton Castle was once one of the most important – and largest – in England, serving as a site of strategic and military importance and the favoured residence of the kings between 1100 and 1350. How we’d love to travel back in time to experience that directly.
During HODs you’ll hear all about the battles, sieges and the parliaments and the trials.
Among the rich history, you’ll learn which king was imprisoned at the castle, and discover all about the Trial of Thomas Becket, which happened here.
Little of the castle remains today - the once impressive build was negatively affected by the plague, and was partially in ruins as far back as the mid-16th century. But its evocative history only increases with the passing of time.
The guided walks will be held from 11am (with further HOD dates on Sunday, September 10, Saturday, September 16 and Sunday, September 17). Visit: northamptoncastle.com
Take a trip back in time with Northampton Transport Heritage Buses and the return of the classic red Daimlers which used to shuttle people along the ‘fampton’s bus routes now transporting heritage visitors back in time, and connecting you with some of the participating heritage events in the area.
Hop on and off between 10am and 5pm (also on Sunday, September 10)
Calling all those of you with a penchant for astronomy, geology, microscopy, meteorology and photography – Northampton Natural History Society’s base at Castilian Terrace in Northampton will be open with displays and demonstrations to peruse and enjoy.
Why not take along a plant or an item to look at under the microscope, or pop along with a fossil or rock that you want identified?
The event will be open between 10am and 4pm today and Sunday, September 10, and children’s activities will be running too. Check out nnhs.info
Northampton’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre has welcomed more than 150,000 visitors over the past four decades, and it has been a popular place for Royals through the centuries too.
‘A national treasure, an icon of Northamptonshire and a building of international significance presents our visitors with the wow factor!’ promise organisers.
Visit and learn about the attraction for yourselves – the church will be open 10am4pm (and again on Sunday, September 10, midday-4pm).
Explore more: stsepsrestoration.co.uk
Northampton’s Transport Heritage will be running bus tours to Jeyes, so you can pop along, have lunch and explore the apothecary.
It will be open between 9am and 5pm, and again on Sunday (Sep 10, 10am-4pm). Children’s activities will be running too.
Kingsley Park Methodist Church will be all in a ‘glass’ of its own with a special display dedicated to the art of stained-glass; from intricate designs to bold colours.
The event will run between 10am and 2pm and drinks and snacks will be served at the Milton Street location.
A dazzling display: methodist-churches-northampton.org.uk
An opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the 200-year-old Weedon Royal Ordnance Depot, and enjoy the many artefacts giving an insight into its operations from Napoleonic times to beyond the Second World War. A walking tour will begin at 1pm, and booking for the walk is necessary. The Depot will be open between 10am and 4pm. Make your way to: the-depot.uk
Sulgrave Manor was George Washington’s ancestral home, and was saved from ruin by donors here in the UK and the USA. It is with good reason that it is called the ‘original home of the Special Relationship.’
‘Be inspired by our stories and consider why working together is still important today,’ is the invitation.
The picturesque home will be open between 10.30am and 4pm (last entry at 3pm). sulgravemanor.org.uk
Abington Church has a rich history, with some parts of the building dating back to 1200. The church – found in Abington Park – has a special connection to William Shakespeare too. Pop along for a look around and discover more about that Bardy brilliant association. Visit at leisure between 10am and 4pm.
Want more info? Head to abingtonchurch.org.uk
Thursday, September 14
The Chester House Estate will host the Northamptonshire Heritage Fair, with many stalls, exhibits, displays and demonstrations to get involved with during the five hours of fun – things begin at 11am.
The fair is taking over three venues in all – with the Northampton Museum & Art Gallery and Abington Park Museum also involved. ‘Something for all’ is the tagline. Tappety-tap to chesterhouseestate.org
Kelmarsh Hall will open for a special oneday exhibition and the opportunity to see a number of hidden treasures, previously unseen, which are being freed from the archives, which are full of items from the families who have called the Palladian-style manor home since it was built in 1732.
Kelmarsh Hall will be open between 10am and 3pm and the Sweet Pea’s Tea room will be serving up tasty snacks.
See inside: kelmarsh.com
Thursday, September 14 & Friday, September 15 (10am-2pm) Saturday, September 16 & Sunday, September 17 (2pm-4pm)
The Deco Theatre opened its doors as The Savoy almost 90 years ago, when it was described as ‘the last word in comfort.’
By the 1950s it had a new name – the ABC – and a decade later its stage was popular with the touring bands of the era, with everyone from The Beatles to trouser splitting PJ Proby passing through on their tours.
As the Cannon cinema in the 1990s its popularity waned as audiences chose
the multi-screen complexes. In 1995, it shut up shop for the last time and the only thing present there for the following five years were the pigeons who came home to roost!
In 2000, refurbishment turned it into a multipurpose venue and The Old Savoy has been serving the community as the home of The Deco Theatre for almost 20 years.
This tour of the building will offer insight into its secrets and much more of its history.
More info at thedeco.co.uk
Friday, September 15
Take a half hour tour of The Charles Rennie Mackintosh House (78 Derngate) and enjoy some seriously unique interiors in the ordinary Georgian house that was made extraordinary thanks to the vision of world-renowned Mackintosh, whose work as an artist, architect and designer is revered.
Pre-booking is essential for these visits, and the home will be open between 1.30pm-4pm.
Visit 78derngate.org.uk
Saturday, September 16
Take the opportunity to view the Blisworth Tapestry, which details the history of the village from the Roman times, in the Baptist Chapel Coffee House.
A Heritage display will also be set up by the Blisworth Heritage Society and there will be a heritage walk in the area.
The kids will be catered for too, with activities just for them.
Explore more: blisworthheritage.org.uk
Crusader Community Boating is back on the water with an opportunity for you to ‘Discover the River Nene in Northampton.’
The two-hour river trip will start from Becket’s Park in Northampton town centre and will run both up and down stream The trips have full access for wheelchair users and depart at 10am and 2pm. Booking closes on August 31. Hurry and email heritage@ crusadercommunityboating.org.uk
Enjoy a display of classic buses featuring bygone operators in Daventry – and free journeys on traditional services to the surrounding villages will be offered.
The Daventry Foodies Market will be tempting you with speciality foods and family friendly entertainment will be offered. Five hours of fun from 10am. Get up to speed now at ntheritage.org
Take advantage of your time in the town by soaking in some of the delights at the Made in Daventry exhibition, ‘inspired by people and places around the town.’ Displays will explore creativity, historic crafts and manufacturing businesses in the town and beyond.
Find out more: daventrymuseum.org.uk
Saturday, September 16 & Sunday, September 17
The Playhouse Theatre – located on Clare Street in Northampton – might be small, but it is perfectly formed, with an auditorium, stage, dressing room, props loft, bar and a surprise Victorian article!
Theatre members will be on hand to give tours of the space and to explain about the development of the theatre which has been active for more than six decades.
Programmes exploring that history –
and the famous names who have been associated with it – will be available.
If you want to let loose your creativity, the group is always seeking new members – whether actors, technical staff, stage managements, bar, or for front of house volunteers. This is the perfect time to find out more and dip in a toe!
No booking required, and you’ll be made welcome between 10am and 5pm. Tap to playhousenorthampton.com for details.
So that’s a look into some of the many free opportunities making up this year’s Heritage Open Days.
Keep checking the website, get out and about and be inspired by the place we all call home.
t 01604 622101
f
t 01536 523434
f 01536 310138
We are excited to welcome all prospective parents for our Year 7 2024/25 intake to join us for an open evening, to explore our facilities, meet many of our excellent teaching staff and also hear from our existing students to learn about their experience with us. You will be able to design your bespoke evening by booking presentations of interest and self-touring our school between sessions, offering a great deal of flexibility on the night.
Bookings will go live at 9:00am on Wednesday 6 September 2023 via the link below: https://carolinechisholm-year7-2024.eventbrite.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our school!
ALL THROUGH (AGES 4-19) HPL WORLD CLASS SCHOOL NORTHAMPTON
BELLS
Bedford Road, Northampton NN1 5NT Tel: 01604 621363 or visit www.bellskia.co.uk
BELLS KIA BEDFORD
Riverfield Drive, Bedford MK41 0SF
Tel: 01234 360666 or visit www.bellskia.co.uk
@CarolineChisholmSchool @CCS_UK &
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This issue we’re checking back with Northampton couple Lavinya Scholl and Oliver Gamblin to see how the last few months on the road have been, as they continue their epic charity trip around the world. Sammy Jones caught up with them during a pit stop on their world record attempt...
When we last spoke with them Lavi and Ollie had ridden through Europe and into the centre of West Africa, where their beloved Suzuki motorcycle, Bumblebee, was about to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a container headed for Rio de Janeiro.
A nice quick trip and then back on the road, right? Erm, nope, actually.
“After huge delays in shipping, our container with Bumblebee finally arrived at the Port of Rio 12 weeks after leaving Dakar – we had been quoted five weeks!” Ollie said, “It then took us another two weeks of going back and forth with customs and the tax office before it was released.”
When they could finally get back in the saddle, they put their collective foot down and got back to the job in hand.
“We have since ridden all the way down to Ushuaia at the very bottom tip of South America through Uruguay, Argentina and Chile, and then, following the pacific coast, up through Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia,” explained Lavi, “In Bogotá we flew our bike over the Darien Gap to Panama City to finish the South American leg of our journey. We are now making our way up through Central America.”
Highlights? As you might expect with a journey of this magnitude, there have been a few.
Reaching the island of Tierra del Fuego, at the southern tip of South America was a moment to savour: “It really feels like you are riding at the end of the earth,” Lavi remembers, “It is the closest place to Antarctica you can ride, but as you would expect, it is very cold and very rainy. Riding through the vastness and emptiness of Patagonia was also very special.
“We saw incredible wildlife including penguin colonies, sea lion colonies and pods of Orcas on the coast, as well as endless herds of roaming Guanacos,” she added, “There was a lot of amazing wild camping at the southern, snow capped peaks of the Andes too, with iconic skylines like Torres del Paine and Mount Fitzroy.”
They’ve enjoyed so many more spectacular sights and experiences on their journey; from swimming in saltwater lagoons to riding through a geyser field in the Atacama desert, and enjoying Machu Picchu and the Amazon Rainforest.
The fearless couple are documenting their journey online, and their affable, informative way of sharing their experiences are gaining them quite the following – they now have more than 40,000 subscribers!
“We are more and more feeling the support of our growing online community following the adventure. It makes it more exciting to film and create content and all the massive effort that it entails, knowing that people are actually interested in watching.”
If you check in, you also share in some of the more hair-raising moments of their journey – like the time they went to that aforementioned geyser field in Chile.
“That was a bit of a hairy day,” Ollie said, “We started in the morning down on the plateau with 22 degrees swimming in a saltwater lagoon, but then riding up to the geyser field we climbed up to over 4000m above sea level. By the afternoon it was
snowing and we were caught in the middle of a lightning storm with nowhere to hide! We had to make our way back down lower as quickly as we could but it was very cold and the bad road was slowly vibrating the bike to pieces.
“Bolts were falling out and we had to reattach our front fender with cable ties, which was really hard considering we couldn’t feel our fingers,” Lavi added.
It also takes more than a raincoat and an umbrella to keep things dry during the rainy season in Ecuador.
“This season they had exceptional rains, so we encountered many flooded roads. On one occasion we had to be transported on the back of a truck over a flooded section of road where a lake had overflowed. People were swimming around us as the truck slowly inched its way through the deep water!”
What place has left the biggest mark on our couple?
“South America, it is just so bigwe know, as we had to ride the whole length of it!
“But also how wild, empty and surprising it is. We never thought that Argentina had such vast wilderness as the Patagonian Steppe, the world’s eighth largest desert, or that the longest beach in the world was in Brazil, or that Peru had sand dunes larger than we saw crossing the Sahara. I guess you never really know until you go.”
Quite how they manage to find the energy for all the travel and adventures, we don’t know. But it’s not coming from food –both are vegetarians and the choice is decidedly limited.
“There really aren’t that many vegetarian options for eating out, and often if we find something, it would only be simple rice and vegetables, but even that is relatively hard to come by. We are mostly eating from grocery stores and supermarkets, simple road meals like cheese sandwiches and packs of instant noodles. We do try and eat as much fruit as we can find, one of the benefits of travelling through tropical places.”
If you’ve followed our updates, you’ll know that Ollie and Lavi set off with a ukulele for added entertainment. We’re sorry to have to break the news that it has since gone to uke heaven.
“We dropped our bike a few too many times during the Africa leg and at one point it broke, so we had to start the South American leg without it,” Ollie admits.
They have now been on the road for more than a year, so both have celebrated their birthdays away. Both have been memorable, though not for reasons you might expect.
“Our birthdays were a bit of a disaster! Lavi’s was spent crossing a mountain pass in Peru where the temperature reached nearly 0 and we got hailed on… obviously wasn’t the plan but once you start crossing you can’t really stop until you get to the other side,” said Ollie.
Lavi takes up the story: “On Ollie’s birthday the bike actually broke! Can you believe it? We were on our way to the Caribbean coast in Honduras when the rear wheel bearing collapsed! It was also a public holiday so no parts stores were open to get a replacement. We had to ride very slowly to the nearest motel and wait until the next day. Our journey doesn’t care about birthdays…”
> Ollie and Lavi are using their journey to raise funds for the Born Free Organisation. If you would like to make a donation, please visit justgiving.com/laviandollie
Keep up to speed as their journey continues by following their YouTube channel: Lavi and Ollie or catch them on Instagram & Tik Tok: @lavi.and.ollie
Untangling the emotional threads of a relationship during a divorce is challenging, but unraveling the financial knots, particularly when it comes to shared assets like a home, can feel daunting.
The family home, a symbol of shared dreams and memories, suddenly becomes a pressing financial concern. With fluctuations in the economy and the ever-looming cost-of-living crisis, many separating couples find themselves pondering: ‘What happens to our mortgage now?’ Navigating this delicate terrain requires understanding, clarity, and timely advice. Let’s delve into the options and considerations you need to keep in mind.
With interest rates and the cost-of-living crisis in the headlines daily, mortgage affordability is a concern for many homeowners, not least for couples who are separating and wondering how this will affect their mortgage arrangements.
‘Most couples prefer to negotiate a clean financial break so that they have no ongoing financial ties, but if you have a joint mortgage, then you and your partner will be both jointly and severally liable for that mortgage until it is either repaid or transferred into one person’s sole name,’ says Diana Rose, a Partner in the family team with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston.
NORTHAMPTON
29 Billing Road Northampton NN1 5DQ 01604 622101
KETTERING
18 Brooklands Court Kettering Venture Park Kettering NN15 6FD 01536 523434 bmtclaw.co.uk
There are typically three ways in which a former matrimonial home will be dealt with when a marriage or civil partnership ends. Some couples may also need to take additional steps if their home is in a position of negative equity.
The three common routes are:
• Selling the former matrimonial home - If you decide to sell your home, an estate agent will be jointly appointed by you both to achieve the best sale price. Once the sale completes, the solicitor will redeem the mortgage in full, so that neither of you have any further obligation to the mortgage company.
• If you keep the house - If you are the sole owner of the house and the mortgage is already in your sole name, you do not need to take any action. Your divorce lawyer will be able to include terms in your settlement agreement to ensure your former partner is foregoing any beneficial interest they have in your house.
If your spouse or civil partner is the sole owner of the house, you will need to have the house transferred into your name. If you must pay them a lump sum as part of your settlement, or you have agreed to repay their mortgage on the house, then you may need to take out a mortgage in your sole name. Independent financial advice will be needed on the right option for you.
If the mortgage is in joint names, then you will either need to repay the mortgage and take out a new mortgage in your sole name, or, you will have to seek the agreement of your current mortgage company to release your partner from the mortgage and to transfer it into your sole name.
• If your spouse or civil partner keeps the house - If you are not an owner, then you do not need to do anything, and your settlement terms will confirm that you are agreeing to forego any beneficial interest you have in the house.
If the mortgage is in joint names and even if you do not reside in the house, you will still be jointly
and severally liable for it. Until you are released from this liability, you may find it difficult to obtain a mortgage for any new house you wish to purchase. Therefore, when the house is being transferred to your former partner, your solicitor will make sure that you are released from all future obligations to the mortgage company.
One of our family law experts will be able to advise you on the options available to you in respect of your mortgage on divorce. We can weigh up the routes available to you, and help you obtain the right legal and financial advice to best meet your future needs.
For further information, please contact Diana Rose in the family law team 01604 622101 or email diana. rose@bmtclaw.co.uk
Liz Earle is a familiar name in body care, and her new Energise & Glow range includes the Body Wash to deeply cleanse and smooth, and the Body Lotion which is enriched with brightening botanicals prickly pear, seabuckthorn and birch water to moisturise and brighten. And the bergamot fragrance is fresh and lively.
RRP: £15 (Body Wash), £22 (Body Lotion)
Get it: Boots stores in centre:mk in Milton Keynes and at The Grosvenor Centre in Northampton, or online at boots.com
Sleek Make UP’s Feelin’ Flush Cream Blush, Lip and Eye Tint is a marvellous multi-use longwearing cream colour which delivers a naturallooking flush of colour. It will leave you with a smudge proof, fresh-faced, youthful glow to see you through the day. Available in four shades, this is affordable beauty at its best.
Introduce Farmacy’s Strawberry Shortcake Clean beauty regime and getting rid of stubborn makeup will be a piece of cake!
Farmacy is supplementing its Green Clean cleansing balm with this new limited edition delivery, which utilises upcycled strawberry seed extract to improve smoothness and softness. A sweet treat which is good for you!
RRP: £32
Get it: cultbeauty.co.uk
No 7’s Intelligent Colour Foundation is a sheer skin-telligent foundation that tackles imperfections and blends into skin for a lightweight, natural finish. The velvety soft texture won’t block pores or creep into fine lines, but will seamlessly adapt to your skin tone, and with six shades available, there is one to perfectly suit you.
RRP: £16.95
Get it: Boots stores in centre:mk in Milton Keynes and at The Grosvenor Centre in Northampton, or online at boots.com
£6.99
Get it: Boots stores in centre:mk in Milton Keynes and at The Grosvenor Centre in Northampton, or online at boots.com
Premium skincare brand introduces its Supremÿa At Night to its range this September. A whole load of science has gone into the formulation of this little bottle, which will resynchronise, repair and detoxify. Hit the website to understand the technical bit.
The Sisley brand also presents a new massage tool to enhance your skin ritual, Ginkgo Gua Sha
The expert companion will aid smoothing, lifting, sculpting, and stimulating movements with effective massage to target those visible
(Ginkgo Gua Sha) sisley-paris.com or centre:mk
Face up to those skin imperfections and use these goodies to glow as you go with this month’s pick of the beauty buys...
It's always a heartwarming thing watching a creature being taken from its cage and leaving Animals in Need (AIN) with a new family, en route to its fur-ever home, writes
Pulse's Sammy Jones
But what does it take to get them to that point?
Some of the animals arrive so broken that they have quite literally closed down.
They are beyond terrified, and often resigned to face any amount of abuse put their way. They have endured miserable lives of cruelty and neglect before being tossed aside like garbage.
The volunteers at AIN have seen horrors that no animal lover should ever see, and that no sentient being should ever be subjected to.
Every animal that arrives in a rescue centre has a backstory. At best they are sad, at their worst the stories are horrific.
You can turn the page in a flash if these examples upset you, but for those animals featured, the journey to recovery is long and difficult, and only made possible by the caring volunteers at the Little Irchester charity.
“This lovely lurcher is called Teagan, and the little lady was left at our gates,” explains Annie Marriott from AIN, “Her owners had been running her, but when her leg got badly broken they couldn't deal with her situation and left her with us.
“Unfortunately her leg couldn't be saved and so she is now a tripawd. She is currently recuperating from her ordeal with a foster family, and we are focusing our efforts on finding a new family for her.
“She is great with other dogs, as mad as a box of frogs, housetrained and loves everyone. She isn't as keen on small furries though, as she has a high prey drive!”
“Heras is a stunning little frenchie girl who is so desperate to be everyone's friend and longs to be loved. Her family left her behind when they went back to their home country and frankly, she arrived here with us in the most appalling condition.
“Her ears are in the most terrible state of neglect and would have been causing her to suffer for quite some time. She has recently had her first operation, and when she heals from that, she will need a double tecabo surgery,” Annie explained.
In short, that means that little Heras will have her ear canal and middle ear removed, with only the ear flap remaining.
“It's a big surgery needing a lot of aftercare,” Annie said, “Thankfully she is in an experienced foster home where she is receiving the best of care.”
The needless abuse and neglect of this little girl means that she will be without hearing for the rest of her life, and the bill to get her through the necessary surgery is costly.
If you can donate towards her care, please give through the AIN PayPal account: finance@animals-in-need
Bunnies are one of the most commonly purchased pets for children, and one of those most likely to be forgotten about, turning into an inconvenience for children who tire of them, and parents who bought them under pressure from the kids.
That is precisely why the decision to invite an animal into your lives should never be taken lightly, or too quickly. Rusty the rabbit is the sorry proof of what can happen when people stop caring.
“He was found as a stray on a Wellingborough housing estate, and when he was brought in, he was emaciated and had horrific urine scald. Those burns take time to cause the damage he had endured, and mean that he was forced to spend a prolonged amount of time in a small, filthy hutch. Again, his suffering was totally needless and completely avoidable and he is currently receiving intensive care.”
It's not only furries that are cast aside though – on the very day we speak to Annie about Heras, she is called out to Rhodes Veterinary Surgery in Northampton to collect two elongated, limbless, carnivorous reptiles – a pair of pythons who were abandoned in sacks outside the practice overnight.
“They might not be as cuddly as some of our rescues, but they will have been just as bewildered and scared. They seem to be in good health, and we presume that they have been cared for until this point. It could be that the owners can simply not afford the costs of keeping them any more,” said Annie.
Snakes should be kept in a vivarium and they need to be heated to the individual species –and in these times when people are struggling to pay their fuel bills, they will make cuts where necessary, and animals are usually the first things to be removed from the home.
“Of course we can't know that for sure as they were abandoned. Please, if you have an animal that you can no longer keep, don't let them suffer, and do speak to your local rescue centre. We don't judge and want to help you and your pets.”
Animals in Need will be opening its doors and inviting you to take a closer peek at the rescue centre on Sunday, September 10.
It's an opportunity to learn more about the incredible work carried out by the award winning charity, and to meet the staff and volunteers who make such a positive difference to so many furry, feathered and scaly creatures and birds.
Some of the rescue animals will be popping out for a bit of attention too!
Entry is £2 with all proceeds going directly back into the charity coffers, and with so many mouths to feed, veterinary bills of epic proportions and spiralling fuel costs, every single penny really does count.
Animals in Need will be open between midday and 4pm and stalls will include a tombola and lucky dip, crafts, bric-a-brac and a raffle.
Splash the cash and you might return home with a prize or two, but you'll definitely be supporting a wonderful cause.
> Animals in Need can be found at Pine Tree Farm, London Road, Little Irchester, NN8 2EH
Makes one cake - 12 squares
4 small ripe bananas
4 tbsp creme fraiche
2 tsp vanilla paste
175g unsalted butter
300g caster sugar
4 large eggs
350g self-raising flour
For the caramel sauce:
100g unsalted butter
125g caster sugar
1 tbsp water
300ml double cream
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas mark 4. Lightly grease and line a square tin with parchment paper. In a bowl, mash the bananas with the creme fraiche and keep aside.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, sugar and vanilla, and then add your eggs one at a time, alternating with the flour. Once your batter is smooth, add the bananas and fold.
3. Place in the prepared tin and bake for about 30 minutes.
4. In the meantime prepare your caramel. Place the water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the sugar has become of an amber colour, start adding your butter, one cube at a time, and finish with your cream.
5. Serve the cake as is, or spread some more creme fraiche, before drizzling the caramel sauce over.
Our recipes come from NN Pulse food writer, Sofia Gallo, an acclaimed local chef, food writer and teacher at Milton Keynes Cookery School. She has recently won the ICG Cooking Competition and was a contestant on BBC’s Masterchef.
Follow Sofia:
Instagram: @in_cucinacon_sofia FB: incucinaconsofia www.lamiacucina.co.uk
Somehow, we’ve arrived in October again – how has that happened?
It feels like we’ve dashed straight from spring to autumn, side-stepping summer altogether, but you won’t be able to sidestep those gardening jobs!
Instead, October is the time of the year when you get to do as a bee; and buzz around the garden in a busy fashion!
This month you’ll wind down the grass mowing, but when you’ve given your lawn its final trim for the year, spend a little time examining the mower before retiring it for the winter - maintenance is key, so check the blades and give it a good clean. Get things straight now, and you’ll have no unpleasant surprises in the spring.
If you have a greenhouse, cleaning its panes will help your plants to find as much of the reducing sunlight that is still straining through, and bubble-wrap is a fine way to increase insulation to combat falling temperatures.
Do check any plants that you bring into the greenhouse for pests though – they might love a cosy greenhouse at this time of year, but you definitely won’t love the results of their stay!
The bare-root planting season is also approaching - and it’s a cost effective way of purchasing fruit trees and shrubs. Simply, bare root means the tree has been dug up from the ground and will be sold with no soil around its roots - meaning it can be easily planted once you take delivery.
September is approaching and school is back! It’s a new start, and the soil is warmer than in April and the days just as long.
We will be sowing lettuce ‘All the Year Round’, a hardy outdoors variety, on the plots but I will have raised some in modules in the greenhouse.
Broad beans and peas will be sown, Aquadulce, Claudia and Meteor are hardy varieties and will be ready for picking in spring. The peas will be covered with cloches to give protection from pigeons and frost.
A couple of rows of garlic and onions will be set.
Pot grown runners will be used to start a new strawberry patch on one of the raised beds. This is a good time to propagate many plants from cuttings, taken whilst tidying up the borders. I will focus on Box, Euonymus, Forsythia, Fuchsia, Hydrangea, Lavender, Salvia and Teucrium which have all grown so well this summer. Taking new growth stems up to 15cm/6”, cutting below a leaf joint, using a 50/50 mix of potting compost and grit or Perlite, pot them up as soon as possible.
After a dry summer and a ‘no-mow May’ the lawn is in a sorry state. A firm raking, levelling and reseeding should improve this important area of the garden scene.
Hoses and drip feed systems have done their job for the year, but if you leave them laying out, they will split in the cold weather and you’ll be paying to replace them, so get tidying and store them away now.
At a time when there is lots of cutting back, weeding and sweeping of leaves to be done, it is still nice to look forward to next year’s first blooms - and spring bedding plants like wallflowers are a great bet to turn drear to cheer. Hardy and pretty, plant them out now and they will smile at you in early spring.
Amaryllis make for a truly striking feature in any house, and if you plant now, you’ll have a fabulous centrepiece in time for Christmas. The flowers - which have their roots in the subtropical regions of the Americas - will bloom within six to eight weeks after setting, just keep the pot free from draughts and direct sunlight. And it’s worth reminding you that our canines and kitties don’t get on with these dramatic blooms, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy. The bulb is the most toxic part, but you’ll want to keep Buddy and Luna away from the plant altogether. Safety first for our furries.
Ralph Westmoreland, Denton & District Gardening Club member
> Denton & District Gardening Club is a small, friendly club which meets on a Monday evening every month. New members and visitors are always welcome. For more information please contact Margaret at m.pateman@yahoo.co.uk or 01604 890875.
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While soothing shades of sage have been a firm favourite over the last year or two, we’ve spotted a subtle shift towards bolder, earthier forest green hues that act as the perfect addition to infuse the home with rich colour, character and charm while still keeping things grounded. This love for deep forest greens stems from an ongoing desire for a greater connection to the natural world and its calming effects (one of the key reasons behind biophilic design’s increasing popularity). Enjoy the products we have chosen to show off these stunning hues.
One of summer’s simple little pleasures is when your path crosses with a butterfly as the sun shines, don’t you think?
It’s a lovely little interaction and always cheers us.
David Chandler would no doubt agree. He has spent decades working as a volunteer entomologist, and told Pulse’s Sammy Jones that we all have work to do to halt their decline in numbers.
As a youngster in the 1960s David’s interest in butterflies was sparked when he began collecting Brooke Bond Tea Cards. Informative and fun, there was not a computer in sight in those days. Instead, your interest would be piqued by the things you discovered given away free in the boxes of leaf tea.
“I wanted to find the butterflies depicted on the cards for myself and in those days it was much easier than today because they were so much more abundant,” David remembers.
Many of us will recall hazy summer days spent with a net running around the garden in an attempt to catch the delicate flutterers.
David was a little more refined in his efforts: “I used to roam the countryside in my school holidays looking for the butterflies which were easier than birds or mammals to approach and identify. First I made lists but as I grew older I used the early colour cameras which were hard to get a good image with because of the fixed lenses. In my early adulthood I discovered SLR cameras which afforded me much better images.”
While undoubtedly fascinated by the insects, it wasn’t until David attended a Butterfly Conservation lecture in the late 1970s that his interest fired up once more.
As a result of that talk, David joined the Beds & Northants branch of Butterfly Conservation, which saw him connect with like-minded conservationists.
disappearing. It’s time to act.’
In less than a century, 97% of wildflower meadows have been lost. It makes for beyond bleak reading, and the loss is catastrophic for the invertebrates, mammals, bats, and birds who made their homes and took their food from the spaces.
In order to build our homes, we are destroying theirs – and butterflies and moths are some of those most impacted.
It is a big problem – and one that we all need to turn our attention to. Butterflies and moths are sensitive indicators of the health of our environment, and their falling numbers should concern us all. As one of the most threatened groups of wildlife in the UK, we all need to play our part to turn the tide on their decline.
One of the easiest ways to make a difference is to join Butterfly Conservation, which will give practical advice, update you on the stats and initiatives happening nationally and in your local area.
“I also became familiar with the butterflies of the ancient deciduous woodlands of North Bedfordshire, at Marston Thrift, and South Northamptonshire in Salcey Forest, and have led public guided walks in these areas for the rarer butterflies like the Black Hairstreak and White Admiral. I have also led habitat work parties in winter to help us conserve these rarer niche species and their diminishing habitats.”
of the final weeks of the butterfly flight season. I am a country-boy at heart and I prefer to follow the natural rhythm of the countryside to the use of calendars.”
David, who is now the branch liaison officer, has more than three decades of field experience tucked under his belt.
In 2019, David explored his life with butterflies with the release of his autobiography.
“In it I describe how, in just my lifetime, intensive agriculture, pesticides, habitat loss through industrialisation and urban spread have all added to the fall in the diversity of species of butterflies.”
Butterfly Conservation happening locally includes a project to reintroduce the Chequered Skipper into Northamptonshire.
“We are three years into the project and, despite a few weather-related setbacks, it is going well and I am proud of what
“Butterflies appeal to me because they mark the annual cycles of the countryside from the first Orange Tips in spring to the appearance of Chalkhill Blues in July and August marking the beginning
There are some positives to be taken just now though – for example, the work undertaken by Butterfly Conservation (BC) together with The Wildlife Trust and the National Trust has stabilised populations of the scarcer butterflies.
“...but falling numbers of the more general butterflies in our parks and gardens remain a big concern,” David says,“People comment that the butterfly bush, the buddleia, is no longer covered in butterflies all summer. We all should strive to make our green spaces
more butterfly friendly to stem this worrying trend. BC has leaflets on how to garden for butterflies. There is also lots of information on how you can help butterfly conservation in other ways; such as learning the transferable skills in our operations.
“It is the loss of abundance that still drives me to be a volunteer in conservation charity work and a great reason to keep me active in my retirement years as I approach my 70th year.”
And if those stunning little insects were to disappear altogether, then where would we be?
“If we were to lose butterflies in our gardens it would be a very serious signal that our environment was in deep trouble,” David promises, “Not only would we be losing valuable pollinators, indicating an ecological disaster, but we would also lose those little flashes of colour that brighten our days in our little pieces of private space.”
> To find out more about Bedfordshire & Northants Butterfly Conservation, visit beds-northants-butterflies.org.uk
If we were to lose butterflies in our gardens it would be a very serious signal that our environment was in deep trouble.”Black Hairstreak David at Sharpenhoe David in conversation with Chris Packham David leading a field trip Pic: Charlie Jackson, flickr White Letter Hairstreak Pic: Frank Vassen, flickr
With crime rates on the rise and over 500 burglaries nationwide a day, T&K Home Improvements brand new Smart Accredited and Police Approved windows and doors couldn’t be more perfectly timed, to ensure customers are safer and more secure in their homes in 2023.
Secured by Design (SBD) is owned by the UK Police Service with the specific aim of reducing crime and increasing safety. They seek to improve the physical security of buildings and the surrounding area using products such as doors, windows, locks, and walling systems along with fencing systems that meet the SBD Police Preferred Specification security requirements.
SBD is the only way for companies to obtain police recognition for security-related products in the UK, through the Police Preferred Specification - a product-based accreditation scheme developed over 20 years ago.
SBD work with manufacturers and standards authorities to ensure that security standards are current and updated to keep pace with emerging crime trends.
In addition their new Intellect shoot bolt window lock and FMT security window lock, Works with Kubu, the only Smart security sensor in the industry to achieve cyber security accreditation from the IASME consortium.
IASME is an independent accreditation body recognised by the UK Government and Secured by Design. So, not only are their new
window locks PAS24 approved and Secured by Design, they also have industry leading cyber security too.
Adrian Timbers, T&K’s Sales and Marketing Manager, said: “Our collaboration with SBD IASME Consortium has empowered us to deliver an exceptional level of security to all of our valued customers”
“We recognise the importance of ensuring homeowners feel protected within their living spaces and enabling them to step out with confidence and free from concerns about any intrusions. Through the integration of our innovative smart lock system, we have introduced an additional layer of safeguarding for our customers where they can see if their windows and doors are being tampered with in Real-Time.”
T&K understand the importance of protecting your family and important possessions. That’s why they provide you with cutting-edge home security solutions that go beyond locks and alarms.
T&K Home Improvements have been directly involved in the technical advancements and manufacturing process of these new systems, ensuring that every material in use meets their incredibly high standards and accreditations.
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The term objet d’art was, unsurprisingly, coined in France and originally used to describe works of art that were small, three dimensional and finished in a fine render to accentuate the aesthetics of the piece. But in 1997, a new exhibition set out to challenge people’s perception of art and brought international attention to a group of young British artists with diverse artistic visions.
Charles Saatchi’s controversial Sensation exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts began with a disclaimer at the entrance, ‘there will be works or art …. which some people may find distasteful’. Amongst the exhibits were Damien Hirst’s shark (suspended in formaldehyde), Marcus Harvey’s Myra (a mosaic made using casts of an infant’s hand), Marc Quinn’s self-portrait (a frozen head made with pints of his own blood) and Tracey Emin’s tent titled ‘Everyone I Have Ever Slept With’. This was closely followed a year later by her infamous ‘My Bed’, which Charles Saatchi bought for £150,000 in 1999. It sold fifteen years later for £2.54 million, a great example of the subjectivity of art and the saying ‘one person’s ‘rubbish’ (or unmade bed) is another person’s treasure’.
Jump forward 25 years and it seems any object can now be classified as an item of art. An individual need only see the potential of a piece themselves for it to become their new quirky accessory placed in a worthy and prominent location. A meme written in neon lights, a desk sculpture sticking two fingers up (Jeffery-West), a taxidermy quail chick being lifted by a resin-cast balloon (Polly Morgan), a ceramic vase in the shape of a bare bottom or an ashtray in the shape of red lips (both Rockett St George)….. the options are limitless and without boundaries.
This subjective approach as to what does and doesn’t constitute an object of artistic merit, affords homeowners complete creative freedom when it comes to personalising their rooms with accessories. Consequently, the objects we choose to give prominence in our homes, say a lot about us. They speak to others about the individuals we are and encourage them to consider what we’ve chosen to display and why. Moreover, objets d’art can have increased substance and meaning when they are borne from life’s rich tapestry. So, it makes sense to include pieces that mean something to you, with a story behind them, that can provoke conversation and perhaps remind us of interesting or precious memories from our past.
www.sweetpeaandwillow.com www.mindtheg.com
middle of a large entrance hall or stand to the side of a room to add elegance without dominating. They can work in harmony with functional pieces when placed on tables, next to chairs or if positioned in the glow of a lamp. Objets d’art have the potential to add character in a way that a lick of paint or roll of wallpaper might struggle to do alone.
Rosie Kinsella Interior Designer 01604 751262 www.millsandkinsella.com
As works of art, objects can be used to add drama, character and charm to a space. They can make for a welcoming statement in a hallway or be the finishing touch added to a living room. A structural vase, a bright canvas or an antique trinket can spark interest in your interior and have an impact much greater than its size. They can be used to brighten up an under stairs corner or draw attention to an otherwise, unimaginative recess at the back of a room. They can take centre stage in the
Smaller items can be grouped together to create a collection but keep the number of pieces odd - odd numbers work best for symmetry. Most interior designers opt for three, but five and seven items grouped together can also work. Consider the spatial composition; in a small area don’t make the grouping too large. Alternate the heights of the items from tall to short to create some interest and give the arrangement balance. Try not to clutter a surface, it’s easy to get carried away.
Often, it’s not what you put in, but what you leave out that makes the difference. Don’t be afraid to experiment - add and remove objects until you achieve a look that you are happy with.
If you cannot decide on a colour palette for your interior, then find an object that you love and draw inspiration from that. Either match the colours of your décor to the piece or use tones that will complement it. Select the dominant colour first, then add the smaller accent shades. A solid starting point is often all one needs to give a concept a coherent design direction, and it’s fun to be able to use an objet d’art as the catalyst.
Objets d’art allow people to express their personality and their beliefs through the decoration of their homes whilst also performing a range of invaluable practical benefits. A colourful piece might pull together all the tones of the room. A shiny object can lift an otherwise dark scheme. A matt object can calm down a bright space by absorbing light and not reflecting it. A tactile or curvaceous object can soften the look of a hard and angular interior and if it is partly made of fabric it can help to absorb sound where there could be an echo. A piece with a geometric or linear design can bring structure to a flowery theme, and consequently floral motifs can provide balance to an orderly or overtly geometric look. A piece set in front of a large blank wall or featured in a monotonous scheme without any sort of variation, can bring relief to the eye.
Works of art promote dialogue and inspire our imaginations. Art improves the quality of our lives and our living spaces and encourages us to think about new ideas and to explore and experience new perspectives on life. But most importantly, art helps us take time out from our busy lives to live in the moment, forcing us to stop and admire what’s been so carefully placed in front of us. Choose the position of your item or collection carefully to give it the prominence it deserves and have confidence in your ability to select your own art, displaying the pieces that speak directly to you. Surely, any items that have the ability to cause us to pause and appreciate the moment in this fast paced modern world that we live in, are worthy of the title ‘objet d’art’.
Are you looking for art that will take you away?
Here at the Rose Gallery, we know that many of our visitors are drawn to works which transport them somewhere else - maybe the power of the sea or a quiet woodland, it could be a place which means something special or somewhere from the imagination. Art can help you dream and remember.
Terence Stamps - Vintage stamp art
The work of Guy Gee is art that transports, with travel, photography and design inspiring his works, you’ll find yourself drawn into other worlds.
In an exciting career, Guy has created art from eye-catching magazine covers and magnified matchboxes, while also working on television adverts for Coca-Cola, Cadbury’s and Marks & Spencer.
Most widely known for his ‘Terence Stamps’ collection, Guy Gee’s obsession with vintage stamps began when he came across a Japanese stamp from the 1890s. We’re all so familiar with postage stamps, it’s easy to ignore how (invented in England in 1840) they transformed global communication. Each nation could now create their own stamps making them the first form of mass media graphic design - telling a story of a place and culture, these were already miniature artworks celebrating places and providing recipients with an image of another world.
Reimagining these postage stamps, Guy uses digital print to revise each piece, editing and blending layers then cutting each one by hand before framing. Changing the designs of the originals slightly, he elevates often flat images to create vibrant stamp art.
Notably, in 2021, Guy was commissioned by Stanley Gibbons, ‘the home of stamp collecting’, to collaborate on a reproduction of the world’s most expensive postage stamp. The One Cent Magenta had recently been
Celebrating travel - Art prints that inspire Guy Gee’s wonderful collection is new to us here at the Rose Gallery, and we’re excited to hear people’s thoughts.
We love the Queen Elizabeth Stamp, created to celebrate her life, in a limited run of only 96 (one for every year of her life); while the Japan Stamp was the one which started Guy’s journey with stamps and presents a beautifully illustrated design.
Gee has created works from the stamps of over 200 nations, a real celebration of travel and culture, presenting far flung locations in these atmospheric retro designs. Whether you’re a traveller, a collector or simply drawn to these designs, each work - with its many layers - really does represent another place and time. Maybe you’ll be drawn to the place you said ‘I do’, the vibrant beauty of a graphic illustration or the representation of a historical moment that means something to you; you can find them all in Guy’s work.
Celine Lee Gallery Correspondent www.therosegallery.co.uk
August might have been all quiet on the theatre front, but it is back with a bang for September!
Pulse’s Sammy Jones has been exploring the many options for the month ahead...
It is the best-selling crime novel of all time, and Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None will begin a 10-date Derngate stay on September 7.
‘Ten strangers are lured to a solitary mansion off the coast of Devon. When a terrible storm cuts them off from the mainland, and with their hosts mysteriously absent, the true reason for their presence on the island becomes horribly clear, as secrets from their past come back to haunt each and every one of them.’
It’s the first time that a home-grown Made In Northampton production visits the Derngate stage, and fittingly it is happening during the venues’ 40th year.
If you want to top up your laughter lines, you’ve got ample opportunity to do just that in the coming weeks, starting with Jordan Gray – Is It a Bird (Sep 17, Royal), who is back in the UK to take on babies, boobies, bigots and Batman in a show bringing together blistering music and comedy.
Tim Vine (Sep 21, Derngate) is promising a mountain of nonsense, daft one-liners, joyful songs, wobbly props and ridiculous humour with his return. But be warned – all tickets are ‘non-repundable’!
Sh!t-faced Shakespeare (Sep 21, Royal) are out on another UK theatre crawl with a new production of their super successful Much Ado About Nothing
This show is the sum total of a hacked-to-bits Shakespeare script, half a dozen professional actors and a bucket load of booze.
It’s for grown-ups, and comes with added rude stuff, so heed the warning. Hopefully it won’t be so rude that they get ‘Bard’ though...
At the Derngate, Fascinating Aida will continue the bad language and sexual references when they step into the spotlight with The 40th Anniversary Show.
The country’s raciest, sassiest musical cabaret trio are filthy, hilarious, belligerent, political, poignant and outrageous.
He burbles and babbles and lights up the TV screen with his wit and splendid wardrobe
of jumpers, and the ever-engaging Gyles Brandreth visits with a show exploring his life, called Can’t Stop Talking (Sep 23, Derngate).
The novelist, actor, ex-MP, podcaster, bestselling biographer, wordsmith and verbivore will entertain and name-drop in equal measure. And he knows the King, so there.
Seann Walsh presents Back from the Bed (Sep 23, Royal), and Morgan & West’s Massive Magic Show for Kids (Sep 24, Royal) is very funny. But it’s not just for little folks – childish grown-ups will have a good time too, with gawps, gasps and guffaws given when the duo lead us through conjuring capers, mysterious magic tricks and fantastical facial furniture.
We’d love to ramble on about the joys of Miriam Margolyes (Sep 26), but her date has been sold-out for months. Let’s just take a moment to appreciate her love of the humble raw onion, though. A joy she and I share!
Mark Simmons (Sep 27, Royal) will be in the house with Quip Off The Mark, a performance with a theme running throughout – a one-liner show structured in a totally different way.
Jimmy Carr brings 2.0 to town (Sep 27, Derngate) with more jokes about all kinds of terrible things.
‘Having political correctness at a comedy show is like having health and safety at a rodeo,’ we are reminded. If you think you’ll be offended, just don’t go. The rest of us will enjoy it.
We’re running low on space now, and still lots to go, so we’ll be brief; Ivo Graham: Organised Fun (Sep 28, Royal), Phil Wang – Wang In There, Baby! (Sep 28, Derngate), Axel Blake: In Style (Sep 29, Royal) and John Robbins –Howl (Sep 30, Royal) will all amuse you if you let them.
It’s almost like the programmers at Royal & Derngate knew we were going to be in need of a laugh, isn’t’ it?
Over at The Deco, things turn to the dark side with The Serial Killer Next Door (Sep 15). Leading psychological therapist and crime commentator Emma Kenny discusses what creates a serial killer, and whether anything could have prevented their potential being activated. Or were they simply born to kill?
On September 30, the venue hosts a Rocky Horror Picture Show Screening with The Old Savoy Jazz Band and performers complementing the motion picture.
Audience participation will be required, so perfect the pelvic thrusting now, and save face later.
Dig out those suspenders and boas and prepare to give yourselves over to absolute pleasure!
> Book tickets: The Deco Theatre: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Royal & Derngate: royalandderngate.co.uk
In the late 1970’s, The Chords (pictured above) issued singles including Maybe Tomorrow and Something’s Missing which did well as part of the mod revival.
Fans included some fella called Weller, the band recorded Peel Sessions, and Sham ‘69 founder Jimmy Pursey signed them to his production company.
But three years after inception the good times soured; musical fashions were changing and The Chords responded to the downturn by disbanding.
A live album, recorded in 1980, was cut loose in 1986, tellingly titled No One’s Listening Anymore. But by 2010 The Chords’ members decided the time was ripe to reconvene, and they are still active today with the original lineup, which is quite something. Seemingly, people are listening after all.
The Chords aren’t just about basking in the past, mind you – they’ve got plenty to say, and play. You can check that directly when the band plays The Black Prince for SBD Promotions on September 8.
Support comes from Mad Mods and Englishmen, who will roll out classic tracks by artists including The Kinks, Rolling Stones, Spencer Davis and loads more. No filler, all killer.
The delightfully monikered Carsick ‘heave’ themselves in for a date on September 24.
The quartet released its debut EP, Drunk Hymns a couple of months back through Alcopop! Records, following a trio of single releases last year.
Sound-wise? You’ll have a problem putting these in a box – they take influence from indie rock to post-punk and hip-hop, and splatter that with electronic moments.
‘...their tongue-in-cheek lyrical approach directly tackles the trials and tribulations of life as a young adult, and especially the drinking culture which dominates the band’s demographic,’ is the PR word.
Theirs is music about living for the weekend, which is something we can all identify with.
Indie-punk duo Regal Cheer are on the bill too. The Brighton boys ‘make punk for people with no time to waste, channelling relatable daily gripes of the 9-5 life.’
They aren’t lying about the urgency of their music either – they released their debut album at the top of the year, and Cans comprised 10 tracks with a total airing time of 17 minutes. We like that.
Short, snappy, punk nuggets to indulge in. Don’t blink when they take the stage, or you might miss ‘em.
InMe frontman Dave McPherson steps out for one of his solo shows at the venue on September 29, with the promise that some of his band’s tunes will figure among the set list, together with tracks lifted from his upcoming solo album, Owed Odes. The odd curveball might also be thrown in for good measure.
Allan Purvis has bagged the opening slot for that gig.
Last up this month, a chance to turn the clocks back and the volume up for The Big ‘80s Party on September 30, with two rooms of 80s delight.
Music will come from Gary Numan tribute The Liquid Engineers, and The Sound of the Crowd will whip up synth-pop and electro songs from the early 80s. DJs Dean Graves, Steve Facer and Alex Novak will spin the sweet stuff.
> Tickets and more info for all shows can be accessed by tapping to sbdpromotions.com
Northampton’s Eddz is back with his new single, EC_ET, which is officially released on the 1st of the month.
EC_ET – standing for English Cities, English Towns - has a grittier edge to it, mixed in with some socio political commentary - it’s a bit of an indie smasher too, pairing spoken words with a tasty backdrop of dance beats and a big chorus.
Listen once, hum for the rest of the day.
Mondo Generator blew away the cobwebs when they delivered a ferocious set at The Raven in Corby last month.
While there, the band - fronted by former QOTSA bassist Nick Oliveri - took time out to chat with Pulse Music about their forthcoming album, We Stand Against You, which is set for release in October. We’ll bring you the interview next issue.
Josh Guy, who takes care of keyboard, synths and production duties with Phantom Isle, worked on the track. He already had form with Eddz’ material, having previously remixed the track Ignorance.
“I ventured out of Northampton for the recording of EC_ET to work with Joshua in London,” Eddz said, “EC_ET is about the demise of our local towns and cities. Regardless of where you visit, they are all generally run down and appear all the same.
“Initially, I thought this was just a local issue, but after gigging across the UK, you realise Northampton is not unique with this problem. The powers from above are not willing to support, help or improve local areas, be it for the greater good.”
Speaking about the recording process, Josh told us: “Eddz and I were caught in the middle of the summer party buzz around my studio in Hackney Wick. We’d soaked up the frenetic energy and made the backing a contrast to Eddz’ charged lyrics. Not wanting to make it too upbeat, we layered up dark guitars and noise against the house beat.”
> EC_ET will be available through all major streaming platforms.
Leicester’s Tri Subversion will be occupying the stage at The Lab on September 2, playing for the Furious 30 crew.
The trio say they are ‘a paradox wrapped in an enigma soaked in petrol overflowing from the glass bottle primed and ready to be thrown.’ No nonsense here, then. Fast paced original noise is on their menu, delivered in an alt-punk rock style.
What about influences?
“Mostly beer, fake news, stupidity, incendiary politics, sh*t days at work and memes,” says guitarist Clive Hale.
They’ve a healthy following in their home town, but if they are a new name to you and you want to get better acquainted ahead of their visit to these parts, head to bandcamp where you can get your Tri Subversion fill – current album You Are The Carbon was released back in April.
The Roadmender hosts Sanctum Sanctorium on September 9, with their take on the dark side of the 80’s.
Aesthetically, this show will be in the shadows with smoke machines working overtime, and so far as the music goes, expect the moodiness and magnificence offered by artists including The Cult, Sisters of Mercy, Siouxsie & The Banshees, and the town’s own Bauhaus.
Does anyone else remember getting excited when any of these artists bagged a slot on TOTP, sandwiched between the latest pop-players, or was that just us?
Brian Downey’s Alive and Dangerous return (Sep 14) when the founding member of Thin Lizzy and his band play all those classics tracks that you know and love; Jailbreak, Whiskey in the Jar, Killer on the Loose, Don’t Believe A Word and of course, The Boys Are Back in Town
Thin Lizzy left us a catalogue of pure class, and as their drummer, it was Brian who kept things in check from day one, until the band reached its end in1983. A night of solid smashes is a given.
Or, how about spending An Evening with Tom Clarke? The man from The Enemy will be playing all of their hits with an electro acoustic performance on September 15.
If you fancy some indie-excess, Definitely Oasis Vs the Complete Stone Roses at the venue on September 16.
From Supersonic to Don’t Look Back in Anger, Fools Gold and Waterfall. Another hit fest is on the cards. Roll with it... Yappety-yap, Ferocious Dog is back on September 23.
The celtic-folk infused punk rock sextet sit somewhere in-between Billy Bragg and The Levellers.
They say they ‘have a broad spectrum of influences, tied together by the band’s leftleaning convictions and a shared desire to communicate through music.’
Give them a chance and these musical canines will make your tail wag.
No surprises for guessing that London
Calling are a tribute to The Clash, and the band will be playing their 1978 elpee, Give ‘Em Enough Rope in its entirety on September 29, as they celebrate the album’s 45th anniversary. They’ll then carry on and play the best of the rest, which means you’ll get all those hits you want; Should I Stay or Should I Go, Rock The Casbah, I Fought the Law, Clash City Rockers and London Calling itself. Last up for September, the final day of the month presents We Call It Jungle, a feast of jungle, reggae and dub featuring Topp Cat, Heartless Crew, Kara with Navigator, Nicky Blackmarket with Trigga, Uncle Dugs with Boxer Banton, Garry K & Presha, and Spectra T.
In a change from the norm this has a daytime start, running from 3pm to 10pm, with an afterparty following until the early hours. Early bird tickets were snapped up super early and standard tickets won’t wait around for long either.
> Get involved in any of the shows mentioned by tapping to theroadmender.com
FILM OF THE MONTH - Star Rating: 4.5/5
Oppenheimer‘s remarkable box office success, despite looking like the exact opposite of summer movie fun, speaks to filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s enduring reputation. Yet even by his standard for more serious films with big budgets, Oppenheimer is a risky semi-biopic venture that pays off wonderfully – and disturbingly, it must be said.
The film continually cuts between 1940s and 50s, World War and Cold War, between the objective and subjective perspectives on events, as scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer leads the Manhattan Project to develop a nuclear device before the Axis powers. After the war, he’s questioned for Communist sympathies at the behest of conniving politician Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey Jr., magnetic as a dual, villainous protagonist of sorts).
Oppenheimer, through its introverted, ambitious if rather blinkered protagonist,
Star Rating: 3/5
The Meg (short for Megalodon) films, seemingly competing with the Fast and Furious series for aggressive stupidity, don’t really require a plot summary. Suffice to say that in this sequel to the 2018 original, Jason Statham gets to fight multiple giant sharks and gun-wielding mercenaries, often at the same time, all while he treats it as the expensive pantomime it is. There’s some decent one-liners and visual gags, though some of them are pretty bad too. It could definitely be shorter but there’s trashy fun to be had, like Sharknado with a bigger budget. The efforts at story and character are no more than cursory (nor is that a huge problem), so why does it have to be nearly two hours instead of under ninety minutes? ✪
adds considerable tension and even dread to a story where you already know the basic outcome. The project succeeds, Japan gets atomic bombed into surrender and Oppenheimer becomes, per the famous quote, “death, the destroyer of worlds”. But Cillian Murphy’s performance, perhaps the culmination of working with Nolan on multiple films before this, is exceptional in showing the fraught humanity of this withdrawn, increasingly guilty man who realises too late the real outcome of his work, however “necessary” it might have been to end the war.
Although the Trinity nuclear test is spectacular in terms of build-up and payoff, the intrigue and huge cast each delivering something unique (including welcome levity from Matt Damon’s general), make this a frankly kinetic three hours as the intrigue and unreality of dealing with unbelievable destructive powers unfolds, followed by the long fallout (no pun intended). ✪
Star Rating: 2.5/5
Nicolas Cage playing Dracula, complete with freaky vampire makeup and costume – sounds like a riot, right? Except Renfield’s more about, well, Renfield and other much duller, non-Nic Cage things. Nicholas Hoult plays the put-upon servant who’s trying to move out of his dark master’s shadow in modern day America. He’s an enjoyable foil for Cage’s ham-and-cheese craziness and you’ll pine for more scenes involving them both but the film just doesn’t have enough material for them. Instead, we waste time on scenes with forgettable rom-com energy, including with Awkwafina, admittedly at her least obnoxious in a while (mercifully, she’s not rapping like in the recent Little Mermaid remake). Even the bloody fight sequences can’t make up for the missed opportunity for a memorable horror comedy. ✪
Star Rating: 2/5
The famed driving simulator game series becomes a film, based on Nissan’s GT Academy programme which turned avid gamers into real-life racers. A few snarky lines from David Harbour as the no-nonsense mechanic training the academy finalists are the most human this film gets. Otherwise, it relies on repetitive and predictable sports film beats, including staging a photo finish at least three times. Ironically for a film about graduating from games to real life, the racing scenes themselves often become purely digitally-rendered affairs. Only Orlando Bloom might be more artificial here, stuck with a role veering wildly between blustering naivete and slimy cynicism. Plus, the racing aficionados among you might notice how many tracks they attempt to dress up the Hungaroring (of F1’s Hungarian Grand Prix) as, including Le Mans. ✪
Star Rating: 1.5/5
The other half of the ‘Barbenheimer’ phenomenon is undeniably a smash hit. But for this reviewer at least, it came across like The LEGO Movie, only so meta and concerned with identity politics that it neglected to tell a cohesive story. Barbie (Margot Robbie) and Ken make the trip from Barbieland to the real world, and the film regularly descends into monologues that want to deconstruct Barbie’s societal impact on women but feel painfully obvious and awkward given how exaggerated, even pastiche this film’s “real world” gets. As if the filmmakers haven’t thought this all through, Ken (thank goodness for Ryan Gosling’s over-the-top comedic acting here) is weirdly more sympathetic than Barbie as he discovers masculine agency, having hitherto been blissfully unaware of his Barbieland life of (essentially) servitude. ✪
You can follow Jordan on Twitter (@JordanReview) and read his blog at www.reviewsreflections.wordpress.com
Towards Zero
Friday, September 1 & Saturday, September 2, 7.30pm
etc theatre group presents the Agatha Christie penned nail-biting thriller, with performances taking place at The Arches Theatre in Clifton Reynes, Olney. Bring your own seat and a picnic. Guess who: ticketsource.co.uk/etc-theatre-company
The Ultimate Classic Rock Show
Saturday, September 2, 7.30pm
Enjoy the very best in classic rock anthems from legends past and present at this evening of heavy anthems made famous by artists like Led Zeppelin, Queen, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, Free and Hendrix. Smoke on the Water: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Singing for the Brain®
Monday, September 4, 2pm – 3.45pm
Sessions using singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity. Group meets at Heron’s Lodge Guide Centre, Loughton Lodge.
Get involved: Contact Chelsea.gadd@alzheimers.org.uk or call 01908 232612 before attending.
Sleeper
Thursday, September 7, 7.30pm
Louise Wener fronted indie rock mob who dominated the charts during the 1990s with tracks like Nice Guy Eddie and Statuesque. Playing at Kiln Farm as part of the #Unitedbymusic tour. Sale of the Century: mk11kilnfarm.com
Junior Filmmakers – Living Heritage
Friday, September 8 –
Saturday, September 16
An exhibition featuring diverse communities, cultures and traditions captured on film, telling the story of a new and living heritage for Milton Keynes. View at MK Central Library during usual opening hours.
Heritage Open Days event.
Rolling: juniorfilmmakers.co.uk
Pioneer Tales Revisited –A Living Archive MK Exhibition
Friday, September 8 –
Saturday, September 16
In 1985, Living Archive produced Pioneer Tales, a documentary and photography project chronicling the first waves of incomers to Milton Keynes. This ‘Revisited’ exhibition embraces the ethos of the project, focusing on stories of many of the area’s diverse communities. If visiting the exhibition at MK Museum outside of Heritage Open Days, usual Museum admission charges apply. Reeling in the years: livingarchive.org.uk
Markus Birdman: Platinum
Saturday, September 9, 7.30pm
The Britain’s Got Talent star – who has recently written for Jayde Adams and supported Jason Manford at the Palladium – comes to The Underground in Northampton to make you think, and laugh.
Finding the funny: royalandderngate.co.uk
Paws in the Park
Saturday, September 9, noon-5pm
A free family fun day with dog show at Great Linford Manor Park, raising funds for the RSPCA MK. Refreshments at the Memorial Hall. Entry is free.
Yap yap: rspcamiltonkeynes.co.uk
The Last Days of Disco
Saturday, September 9
If you watch The Voice, you’ll recognise So Diva who will lead you through classic disco floorfillers from artists like Irena Cara, Lipps Inc, Debarge, The Pointer Sisters and Chic. What a Feeling: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Holy Sepulchre 1100AD
Saturday, September 9, 10am-4pm & Sunday, September 10, midday-4pm
The history of the building through the years since 1100AD has been recorded, showing the visits by kings and queens down the centuries. And Becket escaped from St Seps in 1264. As part of the Heritage Open Days, tours of the church will be led by the Holy Sepulchre Restoration Trust. No booking necessary.
Stamp Fair
Saturday, September 9th, 10am - 4pm
A first class event for all stamp collectors to get stuck into. Stamp dealers, auctioneers and members will be selling, and are happy to help if you have a collection you are looking to sell. Head to the Methodist Hall, Queensway, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK2 2HB. Stamp donations are always welcome for their charity Stamp Auctions. Get it licked: miltonkeynesphilatelicsociety.co.uk or call 01908 521220
Northampton Castle Guided Walks
Saturday, September 9 & Sunday, September 10, 11am
Learn the history of the site prior to the castle and of the advent and building of the castle, which became one of the largest and most important in England.
You’ll hear tales of the great events that took place – the battles, sieges and the parliaments, the trials, and visits of foreign envoys. Heritage Open Day event. Fit for a royal: heritageopendays.org.uk
Discover the Floodplain Forest
Saturday, September 9, 10am-11.30am
Join The Parks Trust on a tour of the Floodplain Forest in Wolverton –understand how the site was created and the methods used to keep it a haven for wildlife. You might even get to meet the Konik ponies in the area. Pre-booking is essential. Heritage Open Days event. Growing up great: theparkstrust.com
Get Cycling MK Heritage Open Days
Guided Bike Ride
Sunday, September 10, 1.30pm-4.30pm
A leisurely guided bike ride around some of the Heritage Open Day events and sites, which will begin and end in the MK Museum car park. Attractions you’ll visit will include the Bradwell Abbey medieval open day where you’ll stay for around an hour.
Wheelie great: Book at letsride.co.uk
Animals in Need Open Day
Sunday, September 10, midday-4pm
Refreshments, tombola and lucky dip, crafts, bric-a-brac and raffle, and the opportunity to meet the staff, volunteers and some of the animals being cared for at the Little Irchester charity at Pine Farm. Meow: animals-in-need.org
Dave Ferra Allstars
Tuesday, September 12
Covers and original tunes in the tradition of the blues.
Music making: bletchleybluesclub.uk
Our Tram – Film Screenings
Tuesday, September 12, 5.15pm & 7.15pm
A film telling the story of the Stony Stratford & Wolverton Tram, made some years ago by the late Chris Bellchambers. Chris was a professional film-maker and made this film at the special request of his dad, Ray Bellchambers. Part of Living Archive MK’s Wolverton On Film archive, being shown for Heritage Open Days. Run time approx 24 minutes.
On track: Pre-book at tinyurl.com/y67v7ch4
Sulgrave Manor & Garden
Tuesday, September 12, 10.30am-4pm
Discover the origins of the Washington family wealth, and find out about George Washington, the man behind the myth, at the manor in Banbury.
Booking not required.
Details: sulgravemanor.org.uk
Walk Wolverton Guided Tour
Wednesday, September 13, 11am-midday
Join a guided walk around one of the trails on the MK Trails: Wolverton phone app. Includes historical descriptions, photos and audio recordings by residents. You don’t need a smartphone (or need to download that app) to enjoy the walk.
Meet in the foyer of the Town Hall, Creed Street, Wolverton Contact: 07951 537176
MK Museum Beer Festival
Thursday, September 14 – Sunday, September 17, 10.30am-4.30pm
Milton Keynes Museum is where history comes to life: fascinating stories, memorable events, exhibits you are encouraged to touch, and loads to see for every age and interest, and for the four Heritage Open Days you can visit for free and enjoy a pint or two with a choice of tempting real ales and ciders. Bottoms up: mkmuseum.org.uk
Tours of The Old Savoy –The Home of The Deco Theatre
Thursday, September 14 – Sunday, September 17 daily (weekdays, 10am2pm, weekend times 2pm-4pm)
Originally opened in 1936, it was Northampton’s ‘only super cinema’ and the last word in comfort.’ In the 1960s it hosted artists including PJ Proby and The Beatles. Derelict in the 1990s, it has since been refurbished and now serves as a multipurpose venue. This is your chance to take a tour of the beautiful building for Heritage Open Days. No booking required. More info: thedeco.co.uk
Tom Paine –A Fantastical Visual Biography
Thursday, September 14, 7pm-8pm
Polyp (Paul Fitzgerald) is a talented writer and graphic designer. In his new book about Tom Paine, he uses both Paine’s own words and those of his contemporaries to show Paine’s life and influence. Pre-booking is essential. Heritage Open Days event.
Turn the page: stonywords.org.uk
The Serial Killer Next Door
Friday, September 15, 7.30pm
Emma Kenny, one of the UK’s most notable Psychological Therapists and Crime Commentators visits The Deco to discuss what creates a serial killer. What makes a killer? This is the show with the answers. Murderous intent: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Bedfordshire Steam & Country Fayre
Saturday, September 16 –
Monday, September 18, 9am
Steam engines, an action packed arena, working demos, fairground organs, working crafts, trade and market stalls, vintage vehicles, old time fairground and licensed bar are among the attractions at Turvey House, a new venue for the event.
Bookings: bseps.org.uk
Whole Lotta DC!
Saturday, September 16, 7.30pm
An authentic tribute to the Aussie aces with a thundering rhythm section, and naughty-boy antics... and one rock anthem after another. Highway to Hell: thecraufurdarms.com
Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September
Fun for all the family at Rushden Station with a large exhibition full of model railways, planes, boats, LEGO AND more. Diesel train rides are available and buffet carriage open for refreshments. £5 per adult, £3 per child and under 4s free.
For more info email administrator@rhts.co.uk Rushden Station & Goods Shed, John Clark Way, Rushden, Northants, NN10 0AW
Registered Charity No. 285535
Calverton Church Open Day Exhibition
Saturday, September 16, 10am-5pm
Includes displays of art and heritage items associated with the village and reflecting this year’s HOD’s theme of Creativity Unwrapped. Expect painting, drawing, photography, quilting, lace making, wood carving/turning, sculpture and much more. An audio-visual display covering the refurbishment and rehanging of Calverton’s bells will air, along with live demonstrations of bell ringing. More info: 07980 009246
Great Linford Park Heritage Open Days
Saturday, September 16, 11am-5pm Surround yourself with the history and heritage of Great Linford Manor Park. Live music, heritage games, re-enactments and storytelling will figure, along with tours and talks. Explore Saint Andrew’s medieval parish church, discover the history of Christian worship at the church and view an incredible textiles exhibition. Food and drink will be for sale. History at home: theparkstrust.com
The Hollies
Sunday, September 17, 7.30pm
As they mark entering their seventh decade as a band, The Hollies –responsible for hits like The Air That I Breathe and Bus Stop - visit the Derngate Theatre for a celebratory roll through the hits.
He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother: royalandderngate.co.uk
Claydon House Heritage Open Day
Sunday, September 17, 10.30am3.30pm
Enjoy free entry as part of the Heritage Open Days season, and explore the spectacular interiors of the house and far-reaching views from the West Terrace and South Lawn at the Buckingham-based National Trust property. Need to know more: 01296 730349
Singing for the Brain®
Monday, September 18, 2pm – 3.45pm Sessions using singing to bring people with dementia together in a friendly and stimulating activity. Group meets at Heron’s Lodge Guide Centre, Loughton Lodge. Get involved: Contact Chelsea.gadd@alzheimers.org.uk or call 01908 232612 before attending.
Yippee Ki Yay
Tuesday, September 19
When gunmen seize an LA skyscraper, off duty policeman John McClane is the hostages’ only hope. This uplifting action romp is an acclaimed retelling of the classic film Die Hard Joyfully funny: royalandderngate.co.uk
Bands in the Park
Every Sunday until 24th September, 2–5pm - Abington Park
Bandstand
Head down to Abington Park’s historic bandstand on Sundays between 2 and 5pm to enjoy some live music. This month’s bands are: Gretton Silver Band on 3rd September, District of Dunchurch Brass Band on 10th September and an Elvis tribute band on 24th September, kindly sponsored by The Park Café.
Northampton Music Festival
Sunday 10th September, 12 – 9pm, Northampton
Town Centre
The Festival returns for its 16th year. With nine stages at various central locations, featuring some of the town’s best loved local artists and musicians, playing Jazz, Classical, Acoustic and more! Check out Northampton Music Festival on Facebook or nnmusicfestival on Instagram for full details.
www.northamptonmusicfestival.co.uk
Snapshots in Time
Virtual heritage walk
Discover Northampton town centre’s rich and varied heritage through the ‘Snapshots in Time’ trail available on the free
Explore Northampton app. From large civic buildings, to family-run businesses still trading today, this trail highlights how historic places have evolved over the years, with photos from bygone days.
Heritage Open Days
Friday 8th - Sunday 17th September, West Northamptonshire
40 heritage venues, including historic buildings, churches and country houses, will be open to the public for free. Travel between venues for free on vintage red buses, while discovering the area’s unique historic sites, which include Northampton’s beautiful Guildhall. Guided tours on 17th September will give visitors the rare chance to see the spectacular interiors and explore the Mayor’s corridor and parlour. There will also be the opportunity to meet the Mayor, along with Morris dancing and historical reenactors. Visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk
For more details visit: northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/events
All events and projects listed are delivered, supported or sponsored by Northampton Town Council
Debbie Bond
Tuesday, September 19
American singer, guitarist and songwriter
Debbie is influenced by the raw juke joint blues, and an immersion in Alabama roots music has flavoured her work. Catch her live at Bletchley Blues Club, with support from The Mojo Mules. Plug in, sound out: bletchleybluesclub.uk
Magical Bones – Soulful Magic
Wednesday, September 20, 7.30pm
Following sell out runs at the Edinburgh Festival and across the UK, the BGT finalist takes to the road with a brand new show full of the most awe-inspiring magic you’ll see this year. Catch him at The Royal. Now you see it: royalandderngate.co.uk
Sh!t-faced Shakespeare®
Much Ado About Nothing
Thursday, September 21, 7.30pm
Stumbling out of their London theatre and onto a UK wide theatre crawl, hoping to not get ‘bard’ as they go, Sh!tfaced Shakespeare® delivers an all new production of their hit show that is just for adults!
There’s a skirmish of wit between them: royalandderngate.co.uk
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Northampton Town, The Old Savoy stands as an exquisite testament to art deco architecture. While many recognise this iconic structure as the illustrious Deco Theatre, its 900-seat auditorium is just the beginning of its wonders. The theatre resonates with life, from its soul-stirring musical performances, sidesplitting comedies, enchanting children’s tales, to the much-anticipated annual Christmas Pantomime—this year featuring the timeless “Cinderella.”
Yet, The Old Savoy has layers of allure that often escape the casual observer. Take, for instance, Bar 36—a sumptuously designed private bar, complete with a rooftop terrace garden that bathes in sunlight. Perfect for an intimate gathering, Bar 36 offers itself as an exclusive venue for private events, special occasions, or an opulent pretheatre experience. And for those summer aficionados, Saturdays are reserved for delectable afternoon teas and lavish bottomless brunches.
For couples yearning for an unconventional backdrop to their nuptial vows, The Old Savoy proudly brandishes its wedding license. Imagine walking down the aisle in a space brimming with history and elegance! Following the ceremony, guests can transition to the Doré Suite—a picturesque setting where beautifully adorned tables await, and bars brim with celebratory spirits.
Corporate entities too find a welcoming space at The Old Savoy. Whether it’s an intimate business meeting or a grand conference, the venue offers a myriad of room choices, state-of-the-
art projectors and screens, as well as impeccable catering and bar services. No event is too grand or too modest.
Curious to explore the myriad offerings of The Old Savoy?
Contact 01604 491005 for more details or to arrange a personal tour. Your journey into opulence and timeless charm awaits.
Faux Fighters
Saturday, September 23, 8pm
Another epic night of Rock & Grohl is promised with the return of the tribute who will deliver two big sounding sets of Fighters classics.
Times Like These: mk11kilnfarm.com
Towards Zero
Saturday, September 23, 7.30pm etc theatre group presents the Agatha Christie penned nail-biting thriller at Stantonbury Theatre.
Guess who: ticketsource.co.uk/etc-theatre-company
The Elton John Show
Saturday, September 23, 7.30pm
This tribute to the flamboyant megastar will bring back ‘Young Elton’ at his energetic best. And you want songs? You’ve got an unparalleled set full of them!
Rocket Man: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Ferocious Dog
Saturday, September 23
A sextet who deliver Celtic-rock infused punk which slots in somewhere between Billy Bragg and The Levellers.
Broken Soldier: theroadmender.com
L1nkn P4rk
Sunday, September 24
Two decades have passed since Linkin Park issued Meteora, and this top tribute will play plenty from that era, together with everything else you expect to hear as they deliver the ultimate Nu Metal party. In the End: thecraufurdarms.com
Zoe Schwarz Blues Commotion
Tuesday, September 26
Zoe is a lady born to sing the blues and she has the innate ability of inhabiting a song perfectly – pop to Bletchley Blues Club and check her live.
Vocally ace: bletchleybluesclub.uk
System Exclusive
Wednesday, September 27, 7.30pm
Pasadena-based duo armed with an array of vintage mini synths who create heartthrobbing dance-pop with a hint of post-punk. Make the mid-week sizzle –get to this Wolverton show. System overload: thecraufurdarms.com
Rocky Horror Picture Show Screening and Live Music
Saturday, September 30, 7.30pm
A Sci-Fi double feature as Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror show is presented live in concert. Audience participation is essential! It’s just a jump to the left: theoldsavoy.co.uk
Saturday, September 30 7.30pm – 11pm
Rushden Station are hosting an evening of terrific fun, with lots of singing, dancing, clapping, marching and silliness! Entertainment is from The Bierkeller Schunklers, a four-piece Bavarian show band. Food and drink available.
Book online at: ticketsource.co.uk/rhts or buy tickets from the Station Bar. £12 per ticket. It’s not compulsory, but guests are encouraged to wear Bavarian/German costume such as hats, braces, wigs, shorts, etc.
For more info email administrator@rhts.co.uk
Rushden Station Goods Shed, John Clark Way, Rushden, Northants, NN10 0AW
Fill
2 9 5 6
1 5 8 3 6 5 1 2 8 9 4 3 7 2 8
Life is exciting! A house move is afoot and careful planning has ensured that much of the packing has been done ahead of the moving date. Come the day when a removals vehicle swallows my life, it will be a case of loading up the furniture and everything else in boxes. Only clean underwear, toiletries, laptop and various chargers will be left over to be carried in the car to the new house. Frankly, I have Impressed myself. In other news, I have a beard. It isn’t one of those all-over-the-face things. No, mine is a goatee, but I have heard it called many other things; some less polite than others. My point is that I need to shave the bits where the goatee isn’t supposed to be growing. In addition, I need to trim the edges and keep the whole thing from becoming too long, lest it appears to my young daughter as something that can be braided.
The box into which the above items have been hidden, has been identified. I will either look like the Wild Man of Borneo or have to relent and open that box.
Back to that carefully planned packing.
I mentioned toiletries. When I think of what it means, I didn’t consider electric beard trimmers. Nor did little scissors come to mind. Nail clippers also seemed to miss the list. Oddly enough, beards and nails continue to grow regardless
of how many boxes of stuff have been packed.
The box into which the above items have been hidden, has been identified. I will either look like the Wild Man of Borneo or have to relent and open that box. The problem is this: if I dig out stuff already packed, then what is to stop me opening a multitude of other boxes to do the same; therefore, why bother having packed anything in the first place?
Here comes another seemingly unrelated tangent. I wanted to pin a small perforated ball to the key in the back door. It keeps the door ajar just enough to allow the dogs to get back in from the garden because they can get their noses into the gap to open the door. A short while back, I would have searched through drawers or hunted in the shed for something to insert into the hole located in the bow so as to make it possible to hold the ball in place.
Bow? Yes, bow. It is the bit you hold when you twist a key in a lock. I didn’t know that until I thought how to describe where the hole was on the key, but I digress…
Unfortunately, the contents of the shed have been packed. The drawer full of unidentified objects have been emptied and packed. Fortunately, we have plenty of sticky tape and, rather unfathomably, matches. Strike some and douse them in water. Then tape three together and insert them through the hole. Job done. However, it would have been far more enjoyable having a good old rummage through drawers and in the shed (I’m a bloke – it’s what we do when there isn’t football on the telly).
The temptation to reopen some boxes is growing…
5 6 8 7 2 3 4 5 8 7 4 1 6
Clues Across
1. Poised
5. Citrus peel scraping
7. Tofu bean
8. Put name forward
9. Joined forces, ... up
12. Praise highly
15. Artlessly
19. Infuriates
21. Crying (of lamb)
22. Burial chamber
23. Deciduous trees
24. Oilier
Clues Down
1. Besieges
2. Wake-up bell
3. Beaten with rod
4. Medieval maiden
5. More eccentric
6. Fashionable
10. Opposed to
11. Rim
12. Film director, ... Ritchie
13. Bullocks
14. Slothful
15. Lithe
16. Singing parts
17. Cattle sound
18. Pressure line on map
19. Debate
20. Fence openings
Flavour of the Times - Traditionally Virgo – the maiden with a sheaf of corn – marks the end of the high point of the year when, agriculturally, the corn is in and the job now is to get everything stored away for the lean winter times ahead. In our society it’s more about saying goodbye to the summer holidays as we focus on going back to school, college etc. and making practical preparations for the darker days ahead. I’m already collecting wood for when it’s cold enough to want to fire up the stove! This year it will feel very much as if things are slowing down, falling apart even, and nothing is resolved, particularly as Jupiter joins all the other outer planets in appearing to go backwards in the sky. The only positive in this is that Venus resumes forward motion at the beginning of the month in Leo which will brighten things up a bit. Otherwise the general advice is to hunker down and lower your expectations of what can be achieved. Pushing for significant solutions will be ineffectual this month.
August 24 – September 23
Getting organised is what you do best so just get on with it. It’s best to reduce the number of things you focus on. Find what’s most important and move forward one step at a time. Mercury is also in Virgo now so keep conversations short and to the point and you will probably find some satisfaction in how things go. Your character is probably better suited to these slow energies than most.
September 24 – October 23
Any moves towards more justice and fairness in the world will suit you as Mars enters your sign this month. This will be enhanced when the Sun joins it at the end of the month and there will probably be skirmishes, where abuses of power meet protests against it, at the full moon on 29th. These are the early symptoms of a growing unrest out there that may inspire you to get involved in.
October 24 – November 22
September doesn’t really have much going for you folk, I’m afraid. Benevolent, expansive Jupiter opposite you in Taurus is going retrograde and it backs away from Uranus although the latter is in a tricky aspect with Venus. Some unusual issues over money or love may surface but it will far from clear what direction they are headed. Not a time to commit, for sure!
November 23 – December 22
The words often used to describe Sagittarius are usually all about freedom from constraints but actually being truly free is mostly just an illusion. The full moon in Pisces opposite the Virgo sun will be a challenge and the new moon in Virgo will probably make you feel even more tied to routines and jobs that just have to be done. Best to accept that that’s currently the way things are.
December 23 – January 20
The earthiness of the Virgo month will suit you and allow things to be tidied up and organised and any Virgos you know will be particularly useful to you at this time of year. It’s all very pragmatic which is not exciting enough for some folk, but you will be generally ok with it. Let things take their course, I would suggest.
January 21 – February 19
Virgo gives way to Libra at the end of this month, by which time you will want to say ‘about time too’. The ways of the world will probably appall you all month as everyone is focusing on the minutiae in the world in front of their noses and nobody is looking at the big picture. This will have to change but not yet, I’m afraid.
February 20 – March 20
Water and Earth: Pisces and Virgo. It either creates the mud of chaos or the solid banks of the river to give structure to the flow of water. Virgo will try to get you organised mid-month when the moon is new but there is so much dissolving of boundaries going on, you may feel it’s all a bit pointless. Letting go to hang on seems like a contradiction, but maybe it’ll work for you!
March 21 – April 20
Decisive actions are not flavour of the month as we head into autumn and this is more true this year than it is usually. There are very few planets out to feed your fire and you may feel a bit helpless to act in the face of events happening around you. Your tendency to act first and think afterwards will get your precisely nowhere at the moment.
You are bound to be affected personally by some if not all of the massive changes that are taking place this year. An astrological reading of your chart can forewarn you about how these changes might affect you. To really understand what they mean for you on a personal level during 2023, I would recommend that you consider booking a comprehensive personal astrological consultation with me. This is completely specific to you and your life. This will illuminate many things that you may not have considered up to now and it will enable you to really take advantage of the positive energies and avoid the negative ones throughout the year.
April 21 – May 21
Jupiter will have been giving you a boost since the beginning of the summer but now it goes retrograde and recent gains need to be consolidated before you can move on. The Virgo flavour of the month will be helpful so long as you don’t expect to go much further forward for the moment. Things you hold dear should be revisited as the month ends.
May 22 – June 21
There is precious little support for Geminis this month. The sooner you get used to the idea that the summer is over and that things need organising for the winter months, the better things will feel. How about tidying up your files and contacts on your phone? That has probably needed doing for a long while and now is the moment to do it!
June 22 – July 23
Clear the decks! Get rid of stuff! Reorganise your life! Go to the tip! That’s what it’s all about this month as the sign of organisation and order, Virgo, comes into the limelight. You cannot bring new things into your life until you get rid of what is no longer useful to make way for it. And there is satisfaction in simplifying your life.
July 24 – August 23
The only good news as we go into autumn is that Venus has turned and is now going forwards again, giving some impetus for some creative ideas and perhaps buying some beautiful things that you will love. Perhaps a bit more money coming your way through your creative efforts might also provide a boost in a rather dour month when there is not a lot else to inspire us.
Chart readings with me start at £67 and last for an hour on Zoom or Skype. Please go to www.astroguidance.co.uk for more details and to book a session. You can also text or WhatsApp me on 07866 727743 or email me at howpark@aol.com for more information.
If you are interested in discussing and learning more about astrology, why not pop into my Facebook group The Astrocafe | Facebook.
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