Essentially Local May-June 2016
Essentially Local is a bimonthly magazine that is delivered free of charge to over 12,000 homes and businesses around Stony Stratford, Wolverton, Towcester and the villages between. It offers a directory of local businesses, a what's on section, a competition and lots of other articles.
Essentially Local is a bimonthly magazine that is delivered free of charge to over 12,000 homes and businesses around Stony Stratford, Wolverton, Towcester and the villages between. It offers a directory of local businesses, a what's on section, a competition and lots of other articles.
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<strong>May</strong>/<strong>June</strong> <strong>2016</strong><br />
Your FREE copy – Issue 74<br />
Celebrating the traditional British<br />
pub and our local brewing history<br />
www.essentiallylocal.co.uk
Building Services<br />
2<br />
Please mention <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> when responding to adverts
Leisure<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
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Contents & Welcome<br />
Inside this Issue…<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Business and Professional<br />
34 30 years of successful trading; Landlords beware;<br />
Milton Keynes’ business celebrate success;<br />
42 Beware the cloners<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Children<br />
18 Incredible efforts from Wyvern pupils<br />
24 Children’s fun<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Community<br />
6 Looking forward to seeing you<br />
10 Dominoes<br />
12 Comedy Cow; Stony Live! <strong>2016</strong><br />
18 Nature Day at the Urb Farm<br />
20 The Rotary Club of Towcester lends a hand;<br />
Rotary’s Rota Kids Club<br />
21 National Trust has local benefits<br />
36 History is brewing<br />
40 Classic Stony; Automodellismo 6 – Model Show<br />
46 They’re brave (maybe mad)… now show your support<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Health & Well-being<br />
10 Pictures for health; Help the Deanshanger helpers;<br />
15 Big Wig goes to Bollywood (remove to)<br />
16 A day in the life…<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Home & Garden<br />
48 SSIB news; Flower festival<br />
49 Hanslope Open Gardens<br />
50 Plan Ahead<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Music<br />
6 Hoping to see you at the concerts!<br />
2 The Living Archive; TC3 in concert<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Pets<br />
8 RSPCA rehoming record breaker; Tick Talk<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> Sport<br />
14 Happy to help you achieve; Give table tennis a try;<br />
Anyone for tennis<br />
Regulars<br />
17 Win tea and cakes for 2 in the ARTea Room<br />
spot the difference competition<br />
26 What’s on<br />
32 What’s on sport<br />
52 Essential numbers<br />
Where we Deliver…<br />
Towcester<br />
Paulerspury<br />
Alderton<br />
Hanslope Long Street<br />
Hanslope<br />
Yardley Gobion<br />
Castlethorpe<br />
Haversham<br />
Potterspury Cosgrove<br />
Old Wolverton<br />
Old Stratford<br />
Wolverton<br />
Deanshanger<br />
Wolverton Mill<br />
Stony Stratford<br />
Wicken<br />
Passenham<br />
Calverton<br />
Beachampton<br />
Hello Readers…<br />
Words, music, sports, flora and fauna are<br />
in the air this <strong>May</strong> and <strong>June</strong> – Stony Live,<br />
Milton Keynes full and half marathons and<br />
of course the open gardens in Hanslope<br />
and the Stony in Bloom events. For a quick<br />
overview of all the Stony Live events, pull<br />
out our centre pages – and remember to<br />
book to avoid disappointment. This year Big<br />
Wig goes to Bollywood – the latest fundraising<br />
treat from incredible organisers who<br />
are dedicated to raising funds for Cancer<br />
Research and local oncology services. Their<br />
reasons are very personal and even while<br />
still undergoing life-saving treatments<br />
themselves, they continue their commitment<br />
to the cause.<br />
Another great event is the Nature Day at<br />
the Urb Farm – don’t worry if this is too short<br />
notice, because The Urb Farm Fest is planned<br />
for the end of <strong>June</strong>. You’ll be able to enjoy<br />
the locally-sourced BBQ, products, plants and<br />
preserves for sale and pond dipping and bug<br />
hunting for the young at heart.<br />
Our local businesses are only here<br />
because of your support, so remember<br />
before you go anywhere else,<br />
make <strong>2016</strong> the year to keep<br />
your business <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong>.<br />
Emma – Editor<br />
Get in Touch…<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong><br />
The Office, 5 The Stocks,<br />
Cosgrove, Milton Keynes MK19 7JD<br />
Tel: 01908 380777<br />
Email: info@essentiallylocal.co.uk<br />
Website: www.essentiallylocal.co.uk<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong>-<strong>Local</strong><br />
<strong>Essentially</strong>l<br />
Design and production:<br />
Andrew Metcalfe andrew@meticulousdesign.com<br />
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Motoring Services<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
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Leisure<br />
The Bell Inn, looking forward to seeing you<br />
Located in the heart of the small, rural<br />
village of Beachampton, the Bell Inn,<br />
is known for its fine wines, well-kept<br />
beers, delicious food and welcoming<br />
atmosphere. And sure enough, as the<br />
doors open for first orders on a cool<br />
day the fire is roaring and on a warm<br />
day doors are open to let the sun in,<br />
staff are smiling no matter the weather<br />
and the aromas of delicious food are<br />
emanating from the kitchen. This pub<br />
offers the perfect recipe for a great<br />
day out with friends.<br />
Jade Heritage, recently promoted<br />
to manager, loves pub life and can’t<br />
wait for the challenges that her new<br />
position, at The Bell, will bring.<br />
She has worked her way up in this<br />
demanding business and from her<br />
very first job as a waitress she knew<br />
it would be her chosen career. In<br />
this role she is working on four key<br />
ingredients that will give you the<br />
perfect excuse to keep returning to<br />
the Bell Inn.<br />
As a free house, she has the scope<br />
to satisfy the tastes of drinkers and<br />
diners with locally-sourced produce<br />
– food and drink are her first two<br />
ingredients. She says, “It’s great that<br />
enlarged and improved there, and then<br />
purchased for Stony Stratford in 1967<br />
after a fire destroyed the parish organ.<br />
Ten years of dedicated community<br />
fundraising, complemented by a major<br />
grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund,<br />
have enabled the full restoration of<br />
the organ, the replacement of missing<br />
pipes, the addition of new pipes to fulfil<br />
the vision of Henry Willis III for the tonal<br />
range of the organ, and new casework.<br />
The work has been undertaken by F<br />
H Browne & Sons Ltd and has taken<br />
eighteen months to complete.<br />
Events in the Restoration<br />
Celebration programme are organised<br />
by Music for All @ SMSG and will be<br />
held at St Mary & St Giles Church,<br />
High St, Stony Stratford, MK11 1BD<br />
Full details and online booking<br />
available on the Music for All @ SMSG<br />
website www.musicforallsmsg.org<br />
Celebratory events during <strong>May</strong><br />
and <strong>June</strong> include:<br />
we are a free house as it gives us the<br />
opportunity to support local microbreweries<br />
and we can meet local<br />
demands.” True to her word, there<br />
will always be at least one locallyproduced<br />
ale on tap. Diners are<br />
already drawn to the reputation of the<br />
excellent menu and Jade will continue<br />
to work closely with the chefs, to<br />
provide options influenced by the<br />
season. Specials change regularly and<br />
for events like Father’s Day you can<br />
choose their popular Sunday roast.<br />
The third ingredient is the<br />
transformations in the pub. Whether<br />
Hoping to see you at the concerts!<br />
After ten years of fundraising and<br />
eighteen months of restoration work,<br />
the ‘Father’ Willis pipe organ in Stony<br />
Stratford’s St Mary & St Giles Church is<br />
finally ready to reveal its glories!<br />
A ten-week Restoration Celebration<br />
programme which began in April<br />
will show off all aspects of the newly<br />
restored and enhanced pipe organ.<br />
With several additional pipes<br />
and stops, including the distinctive<br />
‘Waldhorn’, and beautiful new solid<br />
wood casework, the organ will look<br />
and sound as never before.<br />
What’s more, it will play at concert<br />
pitch for the first time, allowing choirs,<br />
orchestras and other instrumental groups<br />
to perform works involving the organ.<br />
The ‘Father’ Willis organ illustrates<br />
50 years of technical and tonal<br />
development by three generations of<br />
the famous organ-building Willis family.<br />
Originally built by Henry Willis I for St<br />
George’s in Edinburgh, the organ was<br />
Thursday, 19 <strong>May</strong> – a free ‘dropin’<br />
lunchtime concert (12:30–1:15)<br />
involving The Orphean Singers<br />
Sunday, 29 <strong>May</strong> – a short family organ<br />
recital<br />
Wednesday, 8 <strong>June</strong> – a first<br />
performance of organ with handbells<br />
as part of StonyLive!<br />
Sunday, 12 <strong>June</strong> – a Happy 90th<br />
Birthday concert for the Queen with<br />
band and organ<br />
Thursday, 16 <strong>June</strong> – a free ‘dropin’<br />
lunchtime concert (12:30–1:15)<br />
involving local schools<br />
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Leisure<br />
you are out to quench your thirst,<br />
have dinner with friends or celebrate<br />
an event, there is an area for you. The<br />
large, safe garden will provide an ideal<br />
place to relax with the family or soak<br />
up the sun with friends this summer.<br />
Inside, up to twelve of your<br />
favourite guests can be catered for<br />
in a stylish, private room and you<br />
can pre-book your own menu or<br />
choose from the main one. Perfect for<br />
birthdays, anniversaries and friend or<br />
family get-togethers.<br />
The open-plan, chic dining area<br />
is carefully laid out to give space<br />
and privacy whether having a light<br />
bite for lunch or one of the specials<br />
for dinner. The décor is elegant and<br />
the comfortable seats are perfect<br />
for a longer evening of dining with<br />
friends.<br />
On cooler days you can relax on<br />
the sofas with a pint of ale or perhaps<br />
a glass of prosecco and enjoy the<br />
warming wood burner.<br />
The team is Jades’ final ingredient<br />
and they support her desire and<br />
commitment to ensuring you receive<br />
the same high level of care and<br />
attention during every visit. If you<br />
leave happy and satisfied and wanting<br />
to return over again, Jade knows her<br />
promise of giving you the best of<br />
dining experiences will have been<br />
successful.<br />
Finally she says, “I’m so excited to<br />
have been given the opportunity of<br />
managing the Bell Inn. We’d love to<br />
see you soon at our traditional inn, to<br />
taste our delicious food and meet our<br />
great team.”<br />
The Bell Inn is now taking bookings<br />
for Father’s day.<br />
The Bell Inn Main Street, Beachampton, Milton Keynes,<br />
Buckinghamshire, MK19 6DX<br />
Tel: 01908 418 373 • thebellbeachampton.co.uk<br />
Opening Times:<br />
Mon - Sat 11am - 11pm. Food served 12noon-2pm & 6pm-9pm<br />
Sunday 12noon - 8pm. Food served 12noon-6pm<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
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Animal services<br />
Bob<br />
Vinnie<br />
Smudge<br />
RSPCA rehoming record breaker<br />
The RSPCA Milton Keynes & North Bucks rescued and<br />
re-homed a record-breaking 756 cats and 66 rabbits and<br />
guinea pigs in 2015, a great success for the charity.<br />
The local branch, a separately registered charity from<br />
the National RSPCA, couldn’t be happier. Cat Coordinator<br />
Sue Taft said, “It’s due to the fantastic work of<br />
our fosterers and volunteers and it’s all done without a<br />
dedicated animal home!<br />
“Without a re-homing centre we rely heavily on<br />
fosterers to care for the animals in their own homes,<br />
which is why we are so extremely pleased by the figures<br />
achieved.”<br />
Jean Kelly, Chairwoman, said, “I’m so proud of the team,<br />
our animal co-ordinators, feeders, fosterers, volunteers and<br />
Tick Talk<br />
A new tick borne disease called babesiosis was found<br />
in the UK in March. A blood parasite that can affect cats<br />
and dogs, it latches onto red blood cells. The immune<br />
system tries to kill the affected blood cells, resulting<br />
in the animal becoming severely anaemic, sometimes<br />
dying. Symptoms can be quite vague and include<br />
lethargy and pale gums. Vet Kate Smith from the Vet<br />
Centre in Potterspury, says, “Luckily only a handful of<br />
dogs have been affected so far but with more dogs<br />
travelling abroad, we are likely to see more of these<br />
exotic conditions.”<br />
If you are planning to take your pet abroad, it’s<br />
important to get advice on preventing these diseases.<br />
Many of them are transmitted by ticks, so using products<br />
to prevent tick bites is essential.<br />
Travelling within the European Union is now much easier.<br />
our shops, who have all worked<br />
so incredibly hard. Of course<br />
this wouldn’t have been possible<br />
without the help of <strong>Essentially</strong><br />
<strong>Local</strong>. Thank you to everyone who<br />
has given our animals new loving<br />
homes and donated to help provide them with the best<br />
possible care.”<br />
To mark their success a celebratory tea was held on<br />
Sunday 3rd April for all their volunteers.<br />
If you are interested in joining the team as a volunteer,<br />
to help the cats or rabbits looking for new homes, please<br />
call the Milton Keynes & North Bucks RSPCA on 01908<br />
611179 or visit www.rspcamiltonkeynes.co.uk<br />
Pets just need a passport (like us), a rabies vaccine (unlike<br />
us) and a microchip (thankfully unlike us!) before they can<br />
go on their holidays. They are fit to travel 3 weeks after<br />
their rabies vaccine has been given and this then lasts for<br />
3 years. Please ask your vet about precautions you can<br />
take to protect your pets from tick borne diseases when<br />
travelling abroad.<br />
Reminder – it became law on 6th April for all dogs to be<br />
microchipped, so if you have forgotten, get it done soon.<br />
Contact The Vet Centre Cherry Lane Garden Centre, Potterspury, NN12 7QN<br />
01280 812057 or 01908 542155 visit www.thevetcentre.ltd.uk for more information.<br />
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Please mention <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> when responding to adverts
Pets & Vets<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
9
Community<br />
Pictures for health<br />
For over a decade Arts for Health<br />
(Milton Keynes) has used the arts<br />
and creativity to improve health and<br />
wellbeing for local people. The idea<br />
originated with the voluntary Hospital<br />
Arts Committee, who had a vision<br />
to develop an art collection at the<br />
hospital to distract patients from their<br />
health pains and worries.<br />
The Arts for Health projects now<br />
work with health, community and<br />
corporate clients across Milton Keynes<br />
to manage and deliver art projects,<br />
artist-in-residence schemes and art-inhospital<br />
programmes. They introduce<br />
exciting new artwork and cultural<br />
experiences to healthcare settings and<br />
the wider local community. There are<br />
currently 390 artworks on display in<br />
the hospital, as well as a programme<br />
of temporary exhibitions.<br />
Arts on Prescription programme<br />
Help the Deanshanger Helpers<br />
Every Thursday a friendly team<br />
of volunteers get to work<br />
to support senior members<br />
from the local communities of<br />
Deanshanger, Potterspury and<br />
Wicken. As the community<br />
centre opens its doors at<br />
9.00am to welcome the<br />
members, the team will have<br />
already started the process of<br />
cleaning, preparing food and setting up.<br />
A warm meal and the opportunity to take part in various activities – or just<br />
chat with others – is possibly the only social contact many of the members will<br />
have all week. Many of the volunteers at Deanshanger Community Centre are<br />
aged over 70 years themselves, yet every summer they take their members<br />
on a coach trip to an interesting place and include a meal. They also organise<br />
fundraising events at Easter and Christmas. Now they need your help.<br />
Could you spare a few hours to:<br />
• Help prepare and cook food<br />
• Put out tables and chairs in the morning and clear them away at 2.30pm<br />
• Help with fund-raising events<br />
• Support the less mobile members/wheelchair users when going on trips?<br />
If you can give your time – even just an hour or two – please get in touch with<br />
Smallwood on<br />
offers free art workshops on referral to<br />
people who experience stress, anxiety<br />
or depression. Over 200 people have<br />
benefitted, with improvements to<br />
their health and personal and mental<br />
wellbeing, particularly confidence,<br />
engagement in outside activities and<br />
art. Wolverton-based artist Gabrielle<br />
Radiguet has worked with the groups<br />
and has now been invited to show<br />
her works. From April until the end of<br />
September, ten large, semi-abstract,<br />
atmospheric landscape paintings and<br />
12 cyantype prints will be on display.<br />
If you are visiting Milton Keynes<br />
Hospital, why not take a look?<br />
artsforhealthmk.com/<strong>2016</strong>/02/17/<br />
arts-on-prescription-3/<br />
If you would like more information<br />
or would like a referral form please<br />
email info@mkartsforhealth.org.uk<br />
Dominoes<br />
Saturday, 16 July<br />
Milton Keynes City<br />
In celebration of Milton Keynes’<br />
people and places, two kilometres<br />
of domino will weave across the<br />
city, taking in shopping, leisure and<br />
residential areas and boulevards<br />
in what could be the longest line<br />
of moving super-sized dominoes<br />
ever seen. There will be sculptural<br />
features, highlight performances and<br />
gravity-defying tricks. You are invited<br />
to take part in building the line and<br />
promoting the event. You will receive<br />
a Dominoes T-shirt and backpack, a<br />
packed lunch and drinks as well as be<br />
part of a celebratory thank you party<br />
at the end. Created by international<br />
company Station House Opera<br />
brought to Milton Keynes by IF: Milton<br />
Keynes International Festival (15 - 24<br />
July). Sign up now! Register your<br />
interest here: http://goo.gl/forms/<br />
SPboqp0Cc7<br />
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Wellbeing<br />
www.nailsalonmiltonkeynes.co.uk<br />
Lanh’s naiL saLon<br />
• Acrylics • Nail art • Shellac • Air brush designs<br />
• Hand designs • Gel nails • Pedicures • Waxing<br />
Lanh’s naiL saLon in Stony Stratford<br />
provides a professional and relaxing nail care service<br />
to fully meet all your individual needs.<br />
What’s more, we also have free parking at the rear,<br />
free fast wi-fi in the shop and free tea and coffee.<br />
GET READY<br />
FOR SUMMER!<br />
Kick-start your exercise regime<br />
now at Happy Bodies, the fitness<br />
centre on your doorstep.<br />
BooK YoUR aPPoinTMEnT ToDaY!<br />
CALL 01908 567796<br />
95 High Street, Stony Stratford MK11 1AT<br />
HAPPY BODIES | FURTHO COURT<br />
OLD STRATFORD | MK19 6AN<br />
| Back pain | Muscle injury | Sore or overused muscles | Muscle cramping<br />
| Pregnancy back and leg discomfort | Headaches | Whiplash | Lymphatic drainage<br />
| Circulatory problems | Anxiety | Depression | Insomnia | Stress<br />
Tailor-made massage<br />
with you in mind<br />
Massage in Mind provides<br />
massage to meet your needs.<br />
Whether suffering from stress or having<br />
muscular discomfort, massage is a powerful<br />
tool to alleviate these and many more<br />
physical and emotional conditions.<br />
Call 01908 968430 to<br />
book your appointment.<br />
Massage in Mind Action Physiotherapy,<br />
54b High Street, Stony Stratford MK11 1AQ<br />
Email reception@actionphysiotherapy.co.uk<br />
www.massageinmind.me<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
15 11
Community<br />
Comedy Cow<br />
Saturday, 7 <strong>May</strong><br />
Saturday, 4 <strong>June</strong><br />
A night of comedy where no subjects are taboo – strictly<br />
not for anyone who can get offended at anything!<br />
Headlining the show is Martin Mor:<br />
“Martin is the act that has influenced me the most, the<br />
UK comedy circuit would not be the same without him.”<br />
Frankie Boyle.<br />
Martin comes from Northern Ireland, and after a<br />
successful career as a circus performer, he turned his<br />
attention on the unsuspecting comedy circuit. With almost<br />
30 years’ experience as a professional performer, Martin<br />
has established himself as one of the UK’s most popular<br />
and comedians.<br />
Four other comedians in support.<br />
£10. 8.15 – 10.45pm (Doors 7.30pm. The York House bar<br />
– real ale, cider, wines and soft drinks will be open.)<br />
An evening of stand-up comedy featuring 5 stand-up<br />
comedians, presented by award-winning The Comedy<br />
Cow.<br />
Headlining the evening is Britain’s Got Talent Finalist,<br />
comedy impressionist Danny Posthill.<br />
Danny’s career began at 16, making people laugh with<br />
impressions at his school talent show. Since then, comedy<br />
has become Danny’s passion, taking him all over the world.<br />
With an act that caters for all audiences, Danny offers an<br />
unbeatable stand-up and a range of impressions such as<br />
Jimmy Carr, Michael McIntyre or Lee Evans to guarantee a<br />
night of laughter.<br />
Four other comedians are supporting.<br />
£10. 8.15 – 10.45pm (Doors 7.30pm. The York House bar<br />
will be serving real ale, cider, wines and soft drinks.)<br />
Contact and tickets: www.thecomedycow.co.uk/venues/york-house-stony-stratford/<br />
StonyLive! <strong>2016</strong><br />
Saturday, <strong>June</strong> 4th – Sunday, <strong>June</strong> 12th<br />
Ten days of music, arts, walks, music, talks, poetry,<br />
music, storytelling and family events.<br />
Traditional favourites return: Street Entertainment and Dancing; Family<br />
Barn Dance on the Market Square; Classic Car Rally; The Big Lunch,<br />
bits of Shakespeare, The Riverside Parks Fair, and the StonyLive! Fringe.<br />
Some innovations, too, including “CSI” (Crime Scene Improvisation), a<br />
photo competition and a musical tribute to Richard III. It’s not too late to<br />
put something on – anything arts and entertainment is encouraged – so<br />
contact us at the address on the website.<br />
Visit www.stonylive.info – the official website, for updated information.<br />
12<br />
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L<br />
B<br />
9<br />
Wellbeing<br />
Need a physio?<br />
You don’t have to wait!<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
Experience you can trust<br />
Call<br />
01908 560355<br />
www.grandunionphysio.co.uk<br />
Old Stratford Business Park,<br />
Falcon Drive, Old Stratford MK19 6FG<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
13
<strong>Local</strong> Sports<br />
Happy to help you achieve<br />
Happy Bodies Gym always supports<br />
members to achieve amazing<br />
personal goals and running<br />
challenges have always formed part<br />
of the mix. At 81 years, Brian Hird’s<br />
decision to run Silverstone Half<br />
Marathon even took owner Laura<br />
Bowley by surprise!<br />
On Sunday, 13 March Brian set<br />
off on a local half marathon where<br />
the route is exposed and although<br />
relatively flat, is not one of the most<br />
scenically inspiring! Brian’s previous<br />
running efforts included a few 5km<br />
runs but by the half way mark, Brian<br />
pointed out to Laura that he wasn’t<br />
last and went on to finish in an<br />
incredible 3 hours, 52 minutes. Brian<br />
ran for Medical Detection Dogs and<br />
is still accepting donations. Please<br />
show him your support<br />
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/<br />
Brian-Hird<br />
Other successful Happy Bodies<br />
members include Alice Bell, who took<br />
part in the 5km Festival of Running<br />
event and is now looking forward<br />
to building up to a 10km run. Colin<br />
Turner, despite his nerves, managed a<br />
brilliant 55 minutes for his 10km run.<br />
From the very youngest to<br />
the more senior, these are truly<br />
inspirational achievements and it is in<br />
part the support and encouragement<br />
from the team at Happy Bodies that<br />
has enabled such success. Laura says,<br />
“Most people can do it but don’t<br />
think they can. It is about giving<br />
them the belief, confidence and right<br />
training programme to make sure<br />
they will succeed.”<br />
Wishing good luck to the Yorkshire<br />
Three Peaks Challengers, and to<br />
Kelly Blundell and Siobhan Burnett<br />
who will be taking part in their first<br />
ever half marathons in <strong>May</strong>.<br />
Give table tennis a try<br />
Towcester Table tennis League<br />
No matter what your age or<br />
ability, table tennis is such<br />
a great sport that whether<br />
fast and furious or social<br />
you are sure to enjoy it.<br />
Easy on the joints and a<br />
great way to make friends –<br />
what’s not to like?<br />
The Towcester table<br />
tennis league has been<br />
organising local table tennis<br />
for more than forty years.<br />
The games are held mainly in village clubs and the league<br />
has a great reputation for friendly competition with a<br />
strong social element. The group cater for players of all<br />
standards and would love to hear from you if you would<br />
like to try a game.<br />
Please contact Rod Barr: tt.rodbarr@gmail.com<br />
Rod Barr (General Secretary ,TT365 Webmaster)<br />
01604 847948 (h) 07885 108559 (m)<br />
tt.rodbarr@gmail.com<br />
www.tabletennis365.com/Towcester<br />
Anyone for tennis?<br />
Wolverton Tennis Club<br />
offers great competitive as<br />
well as social tennis. It is<br />
LTA affiliated, a Tennismark<br />
accredited venue and a proud<br />
member of the Davis Cup<br />
Legacy Coaching Team.<br />
There is a membership<br />
package to suit all – families to the more senior in the<br />
community. It starts with minis (5-10 year olds) at £30 per<br />
year and juniors (11-18 year olds) at only £35 per year,<br />
including one hour of coaching every Saturday until the<br />
end of July. There are also 5 all weather courts, 3 with<br />
floodlights, social events and a licensed bar.<br />
Pete Tolaini, the Head Coach, and his highly qualified<br />
assistants Rob Small, Adam Pattle and Junior Leaders<br />
manage and run the coaching programmes for junior to<br />
older rustier players and members. Pete and Rob were<br />
awarded Highly Commended for their coaching by Bucks<br />
and MK Sport and Pete has been selected as one of<br />
1000 coaches in the country to be a Legacy Coach.<br />
Call Pete Tolaini for more information 07740 004548<br />
https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/WolvertonTennisClub<br />
Facebook group: Wolverton Tennis Club<br />
14<br />
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Community<br />
Big Wig goes Bollywood<br />
The Big Wig Ball promises to be<br />
another fantastic night of fun and<br />
entertainment in a beautiful themed<br />
marquee venue on <strong>June</strong> 11th. to<br />
raise desperately needed funds for<br />
Cancer Research UK (Reg. Charity No.<br />
1089464) and Northamptonshire Adult<br />
and Paediatric Oncology Services<br />
(NGH Charitable Funds, Reg. Charity<br />
No. 1051107).<br />
In 2014, the inaugural Big Wig Ball<br />
raised an incredible £72,000, thanks to<br />
many kind and generous supporters.<br />
The proceeds not only funded a<br />
research scientist for a year but also<br />
10% of the cost of the forthcoming<br />
Chemotherapy Suite at Northampton<br />
General Hospital.<br />
Lindsey Carman, who chairs the<br />
Big Wig Ball committee, continues to<br />
receive newly developed intravenous<br />
drug treatment every three weeks for<br />
metastatic breast cancer. The treatment<br />
and support she has received has<br />
enabled her to return to work as a<br />
Sister in Critical Care at Northampton<br />
General Hospital and resume a normal<br />
life with husband, family and friends,<br />
something for which she is forever<br />
grateful.<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
Since the first Big Wig Ball in 2014,<br />
Big Wig’s photographer Lucy, who<br />
donated her time and skill to the<br />
event, has developed breast cancer.<br />
Not only has she almost completed six<br />
months of chemotherapy, she has yet<br />
to undergo a bilateral mastectomy, as<br />
well as removal of her ovaries – all at<br />
Northampton General Hospital. She is<br />
38 years old.<br />
Her mission is to be able to help as<br />
many people with cancer as possible<br />
while she is well enough to do so.<br />
Tickets sold out quickly for<br />
the evening, which includes the<br />
fantastic opportunity to bid for some<br />
incredible prizes – ‘A bespoke garden<br />
consultation with garden designer,<br />
broadcaster and RHS judge, James<br />
Alexander-Sinclair’, ‘An exclusive<br />
evening with journalist and former<br />
Beirut hostage, John McCarthy’,<br />
‘Finals Tickets for the Aegon Tennis<br />
Championship at Queen’s Club’ ,‘A<br />
tour of Red Bull Racing’ and many<br />
more wonderful prizes! To donate<br />
please log on to:<br />
justgiving.com/Lindsey-Carman3<br />
justgiving.com/Lindsey-Carman4<br />
15
Community<br />
A day in the life…<br />
Branch-out MK CIC uses Social and Therapeutic<br />
Horticulture to improve the emotional, mental and<br />
physical health in adults with learning difficulties. The<br />
supportive working environment provides a sense of<br />
purpose and gives clients opportunity to learn new<br />
practical skills, interact with others and create community<br />
links. This helps to reduce social isolation and boosts selfconfidence<br />
and wellbeing.<br />
When they moved to York House Community Gardens, in<br />
September 2014, their space increased and the gardeners<br />
now grow seasonal flowers for cutting and drying. From<br />
this they also produce great quality, seasonal flowers for<br />
teas, pot pourri and other gifts.<br />
Everyone is involved in all parts of the growing process;<br />
sowing the seed, maintaining the gardens, harvesting and<br />
then the creation of the products. Once prepared, they<br />
package the products ready to sell at farmers markets and<br />
local events.<br />
The gardeners start their day at 9.30am with a meeting<br />
to talk through issues, agree tasks and check on everyone.<br />
At this time of year the gardeners have to maintain focus<br />
and take care to sow many seeds, transplant seedlings,<br />
pot on plants and feed the soil with home made ‘compost Leisure<br />
tea’. The completely<br />
organic, chemical free<br />
and peat-free garden<br />
involves a little more<br />
effort than most of us<br />
make, however looking<br />
after the soil, the animals,<br />
birds and the insects are<br />
key outcomes. One of<br />
their gardeners has great<br />
pleasure in nurturing and<br />
feeding the birds.<br />
By 10.45am, the gardeners take a break and each<br />
member takes a turn to prepare tea. This break gives<br />
opportunity for a chat and talk about any difficulties but it is<br />
soon back to work until lunch. After lunch, the clients swap<br />
jobs to vary work and encourage decision-making – these<br />
individuals often have choices made on their behalf.<br />
At the end of the day the team wash and put away<br />
the tools before taking a final break to reflect and think<br />
about what was good, how they dealt with situations and<br />
overcame difficulties. As the tired gardeners head for<br />
home, it is clear that growing beautiful flowers at Branchout<br />
makes a real difference.<br />
Seasonal Horticultural and Heritage Craft Workshops<br />
run throughout the year. Heritage plants, seasonal garden<br />
products, cut and dried flowers are available for purchase.<br />
www.facebook.com/branchoutmkcic<br />
for upcoming events.<br />
York House Community Centre, London Road,<br />
Stony Stratford, MK11 1JQ<br />
16<br />
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Win…<br />
Tea and cake<br />
for two people<br />
The ARTea Room offers<br />
an accessible and relaxing<br />
venue where you can enjoy<br />
breakfast, lunch and afternoon<br />
tea. This prize, however,<br />
will give you opportunity to<br />
indulge your sweeter side<br />
with a choice from a delicious<br />
selection of moist sponges,<br />
melt in the mouth flapjack<br />
or sumptuous chocolate<br />
brownie. Accompanying the<br />
cake will be a choice of loose<br />
leaf teas, classic to fruity,<br />
presented in your own teapot<br />
with vintage china teacups<br />
and saucers and the essential<br />
strainer. Now find those<br />
differences!<br />
If you miss out on the prize,<br />
pop along anyway – you’ll find<br />
lovely gifts, gorgeous artwork<br />
and a great supply of reading<br />
material to keep you busy<br />
while waiting for your freshly<br />
prepared food. Don’t forget<br />
there are meat and vegetarian<br />
options, lighter or more filling<br />
choices and divine afternoon<br />
teas. You can now book online<br />
to guarantee your table.<br />
Opening times<br />
Tuesday – Saturday<br />
10.00am – 4.00pm<br />
Sunday and Bank Holiday<br />
Monday 10.00am – 4.00pm<br />
Wakefield Country<br />
Courtyard, Potterspury,<br />
Towcester NN12 7QX<br />
01327 810245<br />
enquiries@artearoom.co.uk<br />
www.artearoom.co.uk<br />
Spot the 5 differences in the pictures for a chance<br />
to enjoy an afternoon out with a friend at one of the<br />
most popular local tearooms.<br />
Competition<br />
Competition rules: To enter the competition, email, post or telephone your answer to info@essentiallylocal.co.uk, <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong>, The<br />
Office, 5 The Stocks, Cosgrove, Milton Keynes MK19 7JD. 01908 380777. Remember to clearly state which competition you are entering and<br />
include your name, address and telephone number. 2. The competition runs from 1 <strong>May</strong> <strong>2016</strong> and the closing date is 5pm, 30 <strong>May</strong>, <strong>2016</strong>. No<br />
purchase required. 3. There will be one winner who will be notified by telephone by 17 <strong>June</strong>, <strong>2016</strong>. The winner’s name will be published in the<br />
July-August, <strong>2016</strong> edition of <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong>. 4. The prize for correctly identifying the missing word in Spot the Difference is a tea for two at<br />
the ARTea Room, Wakefield Country Courtyard, Potterspury. There is no cash or alternative prize. The winner must take up the prize offered<br />
between 1-31 July, <strong>2016</strong>. 5. Entries are limited to ONE per household. Competitions cannot be entered by employees or family of ARTea<br />
Room, Potterspury or <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> Ltd. All correct entries will be placed in a draw and the winner will be the first randomly selected name<br />
that is drawn. 6. The draw will take place on 10 <strong>June</strong>, <strong>2016</strong>. Judge’s decision is final. 7. Entrants may be notified of special offers from The<br />
ARTea Room ; please state if you do not wish your details to be used.<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
17
Community<br />
Nature Day at the Urb Farm<br />
Trainees, staff and volunteers at the<br />
Urb Farm in Wolverton are excited<br />
to announce the first ever Urb Farm<br />
Nature Day – a free event designed<br />
to get everyone involved in the<br />
wonders of the natural world. On<br />
Saturday 30th April, from 10am –<br />
1pm, residents of Milton Keynes and<br />
surrounding villages are invited to join<br />
in activities including pond dipping,<br />
bug hunting, bird watching and a<br />
nature trail, as well as the chance to<br />
craft bird feeders and insect houses<br />
to take home, all in the peaceful<br />
surroundings of the Urb Farm.<br />
Refreshments and homemade cakes<br />
will be on sale for a small charge,<br />
as well as Urb Farm plants, produce<br />
and preserves. For details search for<br />
“Growing People” on Facebook.<br />
The farm found between 196 and<br />
198, Windsor Street, Wolverton, is run<br />
by Growing People, a project working<br />
with disengaged young people from<br />
all over Milton Keynes, training young<br />
people in a practical setting, helping<br />
them gain qualifications and supporting<br />
them to move on to a positive future.<br />
Growing People Team Leader Florie<br />
Bryant says, “The farm is a wildlife<br />
haven, visited by numerous species<br />
of wildlife, including bats, foxes,<br />
frogs, hedgehogs and birds such as<br />
woodpeckers, bullfinches and the everdeclining<br />
starling. The woodland and<br />
ponds, as well as the pollinator-friendly<br />
flowers and crops planted by the<br />
Growing People trainees, provide vital<br />
habitat and food for these creatures –<br />
as well as for our Urb Farm bees!”<br />
For additional information, please<br />
contact: Florie Bryant, Growing<br />
People Project, Milton Keynes<br />
Christian Foundation, Foundation<br />
House, The Square, Wolverton,<br />
Milton Keynes, MK12 5HX,<br />
florence.bryant@<br />
mkchristianfoundation.co.uk,<br />
07793 589 872.<br />
Growing People is a horticultural<br />
social enterprise based in the heart<br />
of Wolverton. The seasonal and fresh<br />
fruit, vegetables and flowers are sold<br />
to the local community through Veggie<br />
Mail (a produce-ordering scheme<br />
carried out via email (veggie.mail@<br />
mkchristianfoundation.co.uk)) and at<br />
Wolverton Farmer’s Market, on the 1st<br />
and 3rd Saturday of each month.<br />
Incredible efforts from Wyvern pupils<br />
Last March Wyvern School, Wolverton began a fundraising<br />
campaign for the Charity Champions project to benefit<br />
cancer patients at Milton Keynes University Hospital. The<br />
teachers and pupils have run a variety of events including<br />
fun runs, an autumn bazaar, a tea party, Christmas cinema,<br />
a Valentine’s disco and two members of staff even braved<br />
the Silverstone half marathon.<br />
The school has so far raised an incredible £4314.46<br />
which will contribute to improved facilities for cancer<br />
patients at Milton Keynes University Hospital. Elise<br />
Muncaster, the teacher who inspired the fundraising drive<br />
is delighted with the results saying, “I’m really proud of the<br />
way everyone in the school pulled together to make this a<br />
success. Pupils thoroughly enjoyed the events. We would<br />
also like to thank staff at Tesco in Wolverton as they have<br />
supported every event.”<br />
Community Fundraiser Sharon Ngwena is grateful to<br />
18<br />
Elise and especially the students at Wyvern School for all<br />
their hard work in supporting the charity.<br />
If you would like to support cancer services at Milton<br />
Keynes University Hospital, or any ward or department, you<br />
can contact the Fundraising team on 01908 996221, email<br />
fundraising@mkhospital.nhs.uk<br />
Please mention <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> when responding to adverts
Leisure<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
19
Community<br />
The Rotary Club of Towcester lends a hand<br />
The Rotary Club of Towcester<br />
is delighted to have been able<br />
to help local Girl Guide Helen<br />
Odams with funding towards<br />
an exciting adventure to the USA. Helen has self-funded<br />
the trip, organised by Girl Guiding Midlands, and has come<br />
up with some innovative ideas. These include abseiling<br />
down Northampton Lift Tower, running guess the number<br />
of ping pong balls in a jar, gardening and even organising a<br />
Bollywood Spectacular curry evening. She has also received<br />
donations from local councillor Chris Lofts and the Leslie<br />
Sell Charitable Trust.<br />
Helen’s trip will include visits to New York, 3 states<br />
in the US and then Canada and throughout she will<br />
be taking part in challenges involving team work and<br />
learning. She will help in a soup kitchen and have a selfie<br />
with President Obama – and then try to get the picture<br />
shown on the big screen in Times Square NY. She will also<br />
dress up as Where’s Waldo and sell cookies and tea. After<br />
a closing ceremony in Central Park Helen will fly home.<br />
The Rotary Club and <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> would like to wish<br />
Helen the best of luck.<br />
Towcester Primary Schools<br />
join Rotary’s Rota Kids Club<br />
Within Rotary<br />
International there are<br />
groups for all ages –<br />
Rotary Clubs, Rotaract<br />
Clubs for 18-30 year<br />
olds, Interact Clubs for<br />
12-18 year olds and<br />
Rota Kids Schools for<br />
7-12 year olds.<br />
Rota Kids began in<br />
the UK a few years ago<br />
yet less than 200 Rota<br />
Kids primary schools are signed up nationally. However,<br />
Towcester Primary and Schools Nicholas Hawksmoor<br />
School have received their Certificates of Charters in March<br />
confirming membership.<br />
Rota Kids follow similar principles that link with the<br />
Citizenship aspect of the national curriculum: To endeavour<br />
to be fair to all, to serve their y community and to<br />
show respect for others. They also believe that peace,<br />
achievement, friendship and fun go hand-in-hand.<br />
Rotarians from Towcester Rotary Club are looking<br />
forward to working with the schools, meeting at least once<br />
a term to advise and support them in any projects they<br />
have chosen to undertake.<br />
The Rotary Club of Towcester meets at the Saracen’s<br />
Head on Thursday evenings. Details of the work they<br />
do in the community can be found on the website – or<br />
email secretary: secretary@towcester-rotary.org.uk<br />
www.towcester-rotary.org.uk<br />
www.facebook.com/RotaryTowcester<br />
https://twitter.com/RotaryTowcester<br />
20<br />
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Leisure<br />
National Trust has local benefits<br />
Are you a member or registered<br />
volunteer of the National Trust? Then<br />
you can make your membership even<br />
more rewarding! Just join the local<br />
Milton Keynes association and enjoy a<br />
programme of visits, lectures, holidays<br />
and social events especially arranged<br />
by like-minded volunteers.<br />
Once a month, members and<br />
friends are treated to illustrated talks<br />
with subjects including art, gardens,<br />
buildings, personalities, collections and<br />
curios. You can also take part in the social<br />
meetings and celebrations – this July a<br />
special lunch will celebrate the end of<br />
the group’s 30th year. Subscription is<br />
very reasonable and an entry fee of £1<br />
(inclusive of refreshments) is charged at<br />
meetings, with guests welcome for £2.<br />
Meetings take place at the Cruck Barn,<br />
Bradwell Abbey, Milton Keynes with free,<br />
accessible parking.<br />
During the 2015/16 season outings<br />
to the Surrey Hills, St. Paul’s Cathedral,<br />
Anglesey Abbey, The Essex Highlands<br />
and Avebury took place and visits<br />
to places not generally open to the<br />
public may also be arranged. During<br />
<strong>2016</strong>, holidays to Suffolk and to the<br />
north-west to see the Blackpool<br />
Illuminations are available. Since<br />
forming in 1985, the group has raised<br />
over £40,000 to help National Trust<br />
properties local to Milton Keynes.<br />
If this sounds right up your street<br />
and you would like to become<br />
a member – or even to join the<br />
committee, give membership<br />
secretary Annette Tyler a call on<br />
01908 314151.<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
21
Community<br />
Bradwell Windmill<br />
Bradwell Windmill will be open and in action on the<br />
following dates: 1.30-4.30pm, 2 <strong>May</strong> 14 & 15 <strong>May</strong><br />
(National Mills Weekend) 29 <strong>May</strong>, 26 <strong>June</strong>. The windmill<br />
has a long local history and is maintained and operated<br />
by volunteers. Well worth a visit. Satnavs MK13 7UE; park<br />
Nightingale Crescent, off Wheelers Lane. Admission is free,<br />
donations are appreciated.<br />
The Living Archive<br />
A live performance from the<br />
acclaimed Living Archive Band<br />
and a unique chance to hear<br />
songs and stories about what<br />
life was like in the place that<br />
became Milton Keynes – and to<br />
enjoy first-class music that’s both<br />
home-grown and universal.<br />
Cost tbc. Time 8.15 – 10.30pm<br />
(Doors 7.30pm. Why not meet friends at the York<br />
House bar – real ale, cider, wines and soft drinks.) Saturday,<br />
21st <strong>May</strong><br />
Email: info@livingarchive.org.uk or Tel: 01908 322568<br />
TC3 in Concert<br />
Ian, Irene and Louise<br />
take a break from<br />
Taylor’d Country, to<br />
bring you a relaxed<br />
acoustic concert of<br />
their favourite songs.<br />
REFUNDS<br />
POLICY: sorry,<br />
but we cannot<br />
guarantee refunds.<br />
We will attempt to<br />
sell on your “spare”<br />
ticket and give you<br />
the money.<br />
For more information:<br />
York House website: www.york-house.org.uk<br />
£5.00 from York House and on-line<br />
(at www.wegottickets.com/event/351799)<br />
8.00 – 10.30pm (Doors 7.30pm.<br />
The York House bar will be open.)<br />
Saturday, <strong>June</strong> 11th<br />
Contact Ian: 01908 563944 or 07932 158106 or<br />
guitar@ianentwistle.co.uk, or visit the website:<br />
www.taylordcountry.info<br />
22<br />
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Leisure<br />
Traditional Tea Room<br />
@ Wakefield Country Courtyard<br />
Serving home-made cakes, delicious sandwiches<br />
& toasties, cream teas and afternoon teas.<br />
With a wide selection of quality teas,<br />
coffees and drinks to choose from.<br />
Opening hours:<br />
Tuesday to Saturday: 10am to 4pm<br />
Sunday: 11am to 4pm<br />
Bank Holiday Mondays: 11am to 4pm<br />
Telephone: 01327 810245<br />
Email: enquiries@artearoom.co.uk<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
23
Children’s Page<br />
Find the words<br />
Can you unscramble the words to discover some<br />
musical instruments?<br />
• NIPOA • MURDS • UTIARG<br />
• OLIVIN • PRAH<br />
Charlotte’s Joke Corner<br />
• What type of music are balloons afraid of?<br />
Pop Music<br />
• What’s the musical part of a snake? The scales<br />
• What do you call a cow that plays a<br />
musical instrument? A moo-sician!<br />
Send your jokes to info@essentiallylocal.co.uk<br />
Word Scramble: Piano, Drums, Guitar, Violin, Harp<br />
Stalacpipe Organ, Wave Organ, Yabahar.<br />
these up and find out more: Hurdy Gurdy, Tsabouna, Didgeridoo, Ukelin,<br />
2.There are lots of unusual instruments from all over the world – look<br />
percussion, keyboard, idiophones, lamellophones and friction.<br />
groups but they are generally considered to be: string, woodwind, brass,<br />
on how they make sounds. Not every instrument fits neatly in these<br />
however musical instruments are usually grouped into families, based<br />
1. It is very difficult to say exactly how many different instruments exist;<br />
Answers: Wordsearch – Missing word is Bowie<br />
<strong>May</strong>-<strong>June</strong> wordsearch<br />
A D E L E F L L P<br />
R M N Q U I L A I<br />
H V H U S W Y C T<br />
Y B I T O B N O C<br />
T A E O A S J V H<br />
H N K L L T A E B<br />
M D L G U I T A R<br />
S U O H Y M N K U<br />
L Y F O N A I P T<br />
It’s all about music this edition! Can you find the words<br />
listed in the wordsearch above? One word is missing,<br />
which is it? A few questions about music: 1. How many<br />
different types of musical instruments are there in the<br />
world? 2. Can you think of some of the more unusual<br />
musical instruments?<br />
ADELE BAND BEAT BOWIE<br />
FOLK GUITAR HYMN LISTEN<br />
LULLABY PIANO PITCH RHYTHM<br />
SOUND VIOLIN VOCAL<br />
24<br />
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Leisure<br />
Leisure<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
25
What’s On<br />
<strong>May</strong>-<strong>June</strong> <strong>2016</strong>…<br />
ARTS & CRAFTS<br />
Craft Social Club<br />
All crafts welcome. Pop in for a<br />
cup of tea & chat. Old Stratford<br />
Memorial Hall. Mondays<br />
2.00-4.30pm. 01908 380777<br />
Scrapbook Club<br />
Preserving your memories<br />
01908 263864 Fri evenings<br />
scrapbook-me@live.co.uk<br />
Stony Stratford Floral Group<br />
Visit to Preston Bissett Garden<br />
Centre 3 <strong>May</strong>. Sunshine<br />
always follows the rain –<br />
Demonstration by Sarah Harper<br />
Flowers 7.30pm, 7 <strong>June</strong><br />
Visitors £6.00 Doors open<br />
7.00pm for 7.30pm Sue 01908<br />
564453 or Judy 01908 569429<br />
The North Bucks<br />
Woodturning Club<br />
Courtyard Arts Centre,<br />
Parklands, Great Linford, Milton<br />
Keynes Saturdays 10.00am-<br />
12.00pm 01908 311243‚<br />
pip.watts@btconnect.com<br />
Westbury Arts Centre<br />
Exhibition ... of sky, land & sea<br />
FREE entry. Weekends 10.00am<br />
-5.00pm 16 April – 8 <strong>May</strong>.<br />
Weekdays by appointment<br />
Drawing for the Terrified<br />
Workshop. £45 Sunday,<br />
12 <strong>June</strong> 10am-4pm.<br />
Felting Workshop £45 incl<br />
materials – for beginners to<br />
advanced. 10am-4pm Sunday,<br />
29 <strong>May</strong><br />
Exhibition – Textiles by Helen<br />
Dendulk FREE entry Saturday,<br />
11 <strong>June</strong> – Sunday 26 <strong>June</strong><br />
Bucks Open Studios Saturday<br />
11 <strong>June</strong> – 26 <strong>June</strong><br />
admin@westburyartscentre.co.uk<br />
www.westburyartscentre.co.uk<br />
01908 501214, Foxcovert Road,<br />
Shenley Wood, Milton Keynes,<br />
MK5 6AA<br />
Yardley Gobion History Group<br />
Meets village hall 8pm, 1st<br />
Thursday of the month<br />
01908 542322<br />
babskingyg@talktalk.net<br />
The National Museum of<br />
Computing<br />
The royal hack that made legal<br />
history by Robert Schifreen.<br />
£12.50 – £15.00, 7.00pm,<br />
12 <strong>May</strong> www.ticketsource.co.uk/<br />
date/FGIEKI<br />
Roots of data processing – the<br />
Victorians by Professor Martin<br />
Campbell-Kelly. £12.50 –<br />
£15.00 7.00pm, 9 <strong>June</strong><br />
www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/<br />
FHEIMK<br />
The Colossus and Tunny<br />
Galleries 10.30am – 5pm daily.<br />
Museum open 12noon-5.00pm<br />
Thursday, Saturday and Sunday<br />
afternoons. Insight Guided<br />
Tours at 10.30am and 2pm,<br />
bookable in advance www.<br />
tnmoc.org/bytes<br />
Bletchley Park, The Mansion,<br />
Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3<br />
6DZ. 01908 374708<br />
Cosgrove History<br />
Behind the Map – Pictorial Tour<br />
of 19th Century Cosgrove. Find<br />
out who lived where you live<br />
now! £5 inc light refreshments,<br />
7.30pm, Thursday, 5 <strong>May</strong><br />
Tickets: 01908 563600, text<br />
07710497415 or<br />
wendypage1@gmail.com<br />
Some availability on the door.<br />
Profits to Church Repair Fund.<br />
St Peter and St Paul Church,<br />
Cosgrove<br />
National Trust Supporters<br />
Group Milton Keynes<br />
Monthly lecture meetings at<br />
Cruck Barn at Bradwell Abbey<br />
as well as daytrips and short<br />
holidays.<br />
Lecture meetings Wednesday,<br />
7.30pm 11 <strong>May</strong> (including<br />
AGM) and 7.45pm Wednesday,<br />
8 <strong>June</strong><br />
Visitors welcome.<br />
Details 01908 366968<br />
Virtreus Art Courses<br />
Glass Applique with Jenny<br />
Timms £60.00 10.30am-<br />
4.30pm, Wednesday, 18 <strong>May</strong><br />
Needle Felting with Naomi<br />
Lutman, £70.00 10.00am-<br />
4.30pm Saturday, 21 <strong>May</strong><br />
Demo Day – Stained glass, arts<br />
& crafts demonstrations, free<br />
10.00am-5.00pm Monday, 30<br />
<strong>May</strong><br />
Bucks Open Studios –<br />
demonstrations all week,<br />
glass, oil, watercolour, acrylic<br />
10.00am-5.00pm Saturday 11 –<br />
Sunday 26 <strong>June</strong><br />
Vitreus Art – Art & Craft<br />
Workshop & Art Gallery, No. 4<br />
Wakefield Country Courtyard,<br />
Potterspury, Northants, NN12<br />
7QX 01327 810320 www.<br />
vitreus-art.co.uk<br />
HEALTH<br />
ASD Coffee Morning<br />
Every Fortnight 9.15am–<br />
10.30am Fridays, call for details.<br />
All Welcome. Deanshanger<br />
Sports & Social Club, Little<br />
London. Deanshanger 01908<br />
567137<br />
CHILDREN<br />
Act Out<br />
Term-time drama group for all<br />
levels and abilities of 7-14 year<br />
olds, covering theatrical skills<br />
– acting, story telling and the<br />
spoken word etc. York House<br />
Centre, Stony Stratford<br />
info@redphoenixstory.co.uk<br />
Act Out will be for 6-10yrs<br />
starting at 4.30-5.30pm, and<br />
Act Up will be for 11-16yrs<br />
5.40-6.40pm. ACT OUT at York<br />
House Centre, London Road,<br />
Stony Stratford.<br />
Brownies and Guides<br />
South Northants Brownies<br />
(7-10yrs) Guides (10-14yrs)<br />
Every Mon, Tues & Wed. South<br />
Northants Rainbows (5-7yrs)<br />
Every Wed. Call Emma 01908<br />
571244 Wolverton Rainbows,<br />
Brownies and Guides & Stony<br />
Stratford Guides. Every Mon<br />
Stony Stratford Brownies and<br />
Guides. Every Wed. Stony<br />
Stratford Rainbows; Every<br />
Thursday Stacey Pond at<br />
staceywpond@gmail.com<br />
girlguiding.org.uk/about_us.aspx<br />
Towcester Brownie/Guides<br />
Brownies – Tuesday,Wednesday<br />
and Thursday. Guides –<br />
Monday and Thursday. Hattie –<br />
Guider in Charge 3rd Towcester<br />
Brownies, 07776257398<br />
3rdtowcesterbrownies@gmail.com<br />
Stony Stratford Beaver Scouts<br />
1st Stony Stratford Beaver<br />
Scouts (boys & girls 6-8yrs),<br />
Mondays 1st Stony Stratford<br />
Cub Scouts (boys & girls<br />
8-10.5yrs), Thursdays 1st Stony<br />
Stratford Scouts (boys & girls<br />
10.5-14yrs), Tuesdays<br />
www.facebook.<br />
com/1stStonyStratford Email<br />
alby@backstage.co.uk<br />
Stony Stratford Library<br />
Stories, songs and rhymes for<br />
under 5s and carers, free 11.00-<br />
11.30pm, Thursdays. www.<br />
milton-keynes.gov.uk/libraries<br />
York House Junior Youth Club<br />
Ages 8 -12 6.00pm 7.30pm<br />
Mondays.<br />
yorkhouseyouthclubs@hotmail.com<br />
York House Senior Youth Club<br />
Over 12s 5.45pm-7.45pm.<br />
Wednesdays.<br />
tash.youth@ymail.com<br />
07949402862<br />
www.york-house.org.uk<br />
MUSIC<br />
Jazz – New Orleans Jazz Club<br />
With Good Time Jazz Trevor<br />
Jeavons. £3 entry on the door.<br />
01908 569432<br />
www.goodtimejazz.co.uk,<br />
8.00pm-10.30pm, Wednesday,<br />
4 <strong>May</strong> & 1 <strong>June</strong>, The Cock<br />
Hotel, Stony Stratford<br />
Jazz Jam<br />
Terry Marshall (tenor sax) and<br />
The Hounds with other local<br />
musicians. The Fox & Hounds,<br />
Stony Stratford Free entry.<br />
Every Thursday 8.30pm.<br />
Junction 14 Ladies Barbershop<br />
Club For ladies over 16yrs.<br />
Rehearsals on Thursdays<br />
TheVillage Hall, Extra Care<br />
Village, Shenley Wood,<br />
Milton Keynes. To join call<br />
01908 678558. To hire call<br />
01908 667029<br />
bookings@junction14.org<br />
www.junction14.org<br />
MK Acapella Men<br />
Barbershop Chorus Rehearsals<br />
every Monday Stantonbury<br />
School, Bradville, Milton<br />
Keynes. To join:<br />
membership@mkacapella.com<br />
To hire:<br />
bookings@mkacapella.com<br />
www.mkacapella.com<br />
Milton Keynes Acoustic<br />
Music Centre<br />
Tuition in roots guitar, fiddle<br />
and penny whistle. Beginners<br />
to advanced, exciting projects –<br />
join a band. 1st & 3rd Thursday<br />
Community Centre, Britten<br />
Grove, Old Farm Park, Milton<br />
Keynes. johntimpany@aol.co.uk<br />
www.mkamc.co.uk<br />
Music Makers of<br />
Milton Keynes<br />
Choral music and singing.<br />
Rehearsals in Stony Stratford.<br />
7.30pm- 9.30pm Thursdays<br />
Call Dianna 07846 972970<br />
… continued<br />
26<br />
Please mention <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> when responding to adverts
For more details of these events pick up a<br />
programme from Odells, the library, venues and shops in Stony.<br />
Remember that events are being added all the time.<br />
For even more information, visit www.stonylive.info<br />
In association with<br />
Photographs courtesy: Kate Davies, Roddy Clenaghan & Classic Stony Photographers
Stony Live <strong>2016</strong><br />
Pleased to support Stony Live<br />
The Extremely Elegant<br />
Hawthorne Chair<br />
Just one of the fabulous<br />
pieces available from<br />
14 High Street, Stony Stratford, MK11 1AF<br />
Tel: 01908 568674<br />
info@morgangilder.co.uk<br />
www.morgangilder.co.uk<br />
Opening hours:<br />
Tuesday – Friday: 9.30am – 5pm<br />
Saturday: 9.30am – 4pm<br />
Closed: Sunday, Monday and<br />
Bank Holiday weekends<br />
Out of hours appointments and<br />
home consultancy by prior arrangement.<br />
Saturday <strong>June</strong> 4<br />
Day of Dance<br />
High Street Cofferidge & Lych-gate, 11.00 – 4.00pm,<br />
Free. A colourful mixture of traditional and<br />
contemporary dance.<br />
Hole in the Head Gang<br />
Fox & Hounds, 1.00 – 3.00pm, Free<br />
High energy bluegrass with dazzling musicianship<br />
and vocals.<br />
Family Barn Dance<br />
Market Square, 6.30 – 9.00pm, Free<br />
Open air family barn dance.<br />
Comedy Night at York House<br />
York House Centre, 8.15 – 10.45pm, £10.00<br />
Headlining BGT Finalist, comedy impressionist Danny<br />
Posthill.<br />
2120<br />
Fox & Hounds, 8.45 – 11.15pm, Free<br />
6 piece blues band.<br />
Sunday <strong>June</strong> 5<br />
Classic Stony <strong>2016</strong><br />
Town Centre, 9.30 – 4.30pm, Free<br />
Vintage & Classic vehicles and motorcycles. Live music<br />
and flypast of the RAF BBMF – Douglas C-47 DAKOTA.<br />
Stony Stratford in Bloom Town Walk<br />
All over town, 10.30 – 12.30pm and 2.00 – 4.00pm, Free<br />
A walk round Stony to visit sites created by SSiB.<br />
The Big Lunch<br />
Wolverton Road Recreation, 12.00 – 4.00pm, Free<br />
Spend time with the family and celebrate the Queen’s<br />
90th birthday.<br />
Folk Music Workshop<br />
The Vaults Bar, 12.30 – 3.00pm, Free<br />
Good Time Jazz<br />
Conservative Club, 7.00 – 10.00pm, Free<br />
Syncopated music of the 20s and 30s.<br />
Monday <strong>June</strong> 6<br />
Bonnie Raitt Night<br />
Cock Hotel (Marquee), 8.30 – 10.30pm, £5.00<br />
Jenny Salmon and Switch present<br />
US Band Open Mic<br />
Fox & Hounds, 8.30 – 11.00pm, Free<br />
Chilled out fun night of music and chat.<br />
Tuesday <strong>June</strong> 7<br />
Good Time Jazz<br />
Royal Thai Restaurant, 6.30 – 9.00pm, Free to diners<br />
Smooth vocals from Cathy, the deep sounds of Dave’s<br />
big fiddle and Trevor’s jazz piano.
Stony Live <strong>2016</strong><br />
Wednesday <strong>June</strong> 8<br />
Freespirit<br />
Bull (Stables), 8.30 – 11.00pm, Free<br />
Collection of self penned songs, covers and traditional<br />
tunes.<br />
Thursday <strong>June</strong> 9<br />
Good Time Jazz<br />
Calcutta Brasserie, 7.00 – 10.00pm, Free to diners<br />
Excellent food and spicy jazz.<br />
Cara Dillon SOLD OUT<br />
Cock Hotel (Marquee), 8.15 – 11.00pm, £12.00<br />
Traditional songs from an emotive and captivating<br />
performer.<br />
Vaultage Open Mic StonyLive! Special<br />
Vaults Bar, 8.30 – 11.30pm, Free<br />
Performers from all disciplines get behind the<br />
microphone.<br />
Friday <strong>June</strong> 10<br />
C.S.I: Crime Scene Improvisation<br />
Crown (upstairs), 8.00 – 9.00pm, £9 (£8 conc)<br />
Improvised murder mystery comedy play.<br />
3’s A Crowd<br />
Conservative Club, 8.30 – 11.00pm, Free<br />
An acoustic 3 piece band covering Beatles, Christy<br />
Moore, Amy McDonal and more.<br />
Your local<br />
cycle shop<br />
Now stocking<br />
mountain bikes, hybrids,<br />
road bikes & accessories<br />
Drop in to our coffee shop,<br />
serving delicious home-made cakes<br />
Located on the high street in Stony Stratford<br />
42-44 High Street, Stony Stratford MK11 1AQ<br />
01908 260322 | www.twenty3c.co.uk<br />
Saturday <strong>June</strong> 11<br />
Allotments Open Day<br />
London Road Allotments, 12.00 – 4.00pm, Free<br />
Some of Stony’s finest gardeners, free advice & best<br />
quality plants for sale! Raffle for Willen Hospice.<br />
Riverside Fair<br />
Millfield, 1.00 – 4.00pm, Free<br />
Attractions and activities for children.<br />
4String at StonyLive!<br />
Crown (upstairs), 8.00 – 10.30pm, Free (donation please)<br />
Be prepared for something different with 4 String<br />
Ukulele Band.<br />
TC3 in Concert<br />
York House Centre, 8.00 – 10.30pm, £5.00<br />
A relaxed acoustic concert.<br />
Sunday <strong>June</strong> 12<br />
Folk Music Workshop<br />
Vaults Bar, 12.30 – 3.00pm, Free<br />
The Legendary Ten Seconds<br />
Cock Hotel, 2.00 – 5.00pm, £5.00<br />
Songs About Richard III.
What’s On<br />
The Song Loft<br />
Paul Downes £7.00 8.15pm,<br />
Friday, 6 <strong>May</strong>, Performers’<br />
Night with Bearwood Folk Trio<br />
£2.00 8.15pm Friday, 20 <strong>May</strong>,<br />
The Roddy Clenaghan Band<br />
£7.00 8.15pm, Friday, 3 <strong>June</strong><br />
Performers’ Night with Free<br />
Spirit £2.00 8.15pm Friday,<br />
17 <strong>June</strong>. Cock Hotel, Stony<br />
Stratford MK11 1AH<br />
The Towcester Choral Society<br />
Rehearsals in Towcester Town<br />
Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm Tuesday.<br />
01327 353314 or membership@<br />
towcesterchoralsociety.org.uk<br />
www.towcesterchoralsociety.org.uk<br />
See Facebook and Twitter<br />
DANCE<br />
Old Mother Redcaps<br />
Friendly Ladies Morris dancing<br />
side, looking for new dancers<br />
& musicians. Meet in Swinfen<br />
Harris Hall, Stony Stratford,<br />
8.00-10.00pm Mon evenings<br />
Catherine 01908 667112<br />
Potterspury Dance Club<br />
Friendly group of ballroom and<br />
sequence dancers. £2.50.<br />
New members welcome.<br />
John & Di 01604 862632<br />
8pm- 10pm Tuesday,<br />
Potterspury Village Hall.<br />
Rose & Castle Morris<br />
Northampton County Beer<br />
Festival Delapre Abbey,<br />
Sunday, 22 <strong>May</strong> Milton Keynes<br />
Museum Victorian event<br />
Saturday, 11 <strong>June</strong>.<br />
Stoke Bruerne Village Hall<br />
8.30pm-10.30pm Every<br />
Wednesday. New members<br />
welcome.<br />
Ian 01908 635133 or<br />
welborn@cmdevelopment.co.uk<br />
www.rose-castlemorris.org.uk<br />
Triple K Western Line Dancers<br />
Improvers class 7.30pm-9.00pm<br />
Thurs, Haversham Social &<br />
Community Centre. Beginners<br />
class 10.45am-11.45am,<br />
Deanshanger Memorial Centre.<br />
Kay or Andrew on<br />
01525 376172<br />
MARKETS<br />
Monthly Farmers Markets<br />
Market Square, Stony Stratford<br />
Last Friday 9.00am-1.00pm<br />
Towcester Nr Waitrose<br />
2nd Friday 9.00am-1.00pm<br />
Wolverton Road/Creed Street,<br />
Wolverton 1st and 3rd Saturday<br />
9am-1.00pm<br />
Milton Keynes Country Market<br />
Fridays 8.00am-12 noon. <strong>Local</strong><br />
Produce Baking, Crafts, Plants,<br />
Cafe. The Old Bath House,<br />
Stratford Rd, Wolverton. Free<br />
entry. Timor Court Market,<br />
Stony Stratford. Saturdays Fruit,<br />
Veg, Flowers and other stalls.<br />
LEISURE<br />
Reading Group<br />
Meet 2.00pm last Wednesday<br />
of month, Deanshanger Library<br />
01908 562889<br />
deanlib@northamptonshire.gov.uk<br />
The Knit and Natter<br />
First Friday of month, to knit<br />
and natter, Deanshanger Library<br />
01908 562889<br />
deanlib@northamptonshire.gov.uk<br />
Stony Stratford Library<br />
Knit and Natter 1st and 3rd<br />
Fridays of the month Learn to<br />
Knit Thursdays 3.30-4.00pm<br />
(term time only) Book Club<br />
2.00-3.00pm, 4th Wednesday<br />
of the month www.miltonkeynes.gov.uk/libraries<br />
Deanshanger Sports Club<br />
Social Evenings<br />
In partnership with<br />
Deanshanger Colts and Divas.<br />
Little London, Deanshanger<br />
MK19 6HU 01908 567137<br />
Facebook Deanshangersports<br />
and social club<br />
Scribal Gathering<br />
Stony Stratford’s premier openminded<br />
open mic night. Doors<br />
open 7.30pm for 8.00pm start.<br />
2nd Tuesday every month, The<br />
Cock Hotel, Stony Stratford 1st<br />
Sunday every month, Fox and<br />
Hounds, Stony Stratford.<br />
Stony Curry Club Quiz<br />
Raising funds for Willen Hospice<br />
and Rett UK. First Tuesday of<br />
month – 1 March and 5 April.<br />
£15 per head/tables of four.<br />
Book via StonyCurryClub@<br />
hotmail.com Facebook: Stony<br />
Stratford Tuesday Night<br />
Charity Curry Club Quiz Naidni<br />
Restaurant & Bar.<br />
Wolverton Community<br />
Orchard<br />
Gardening Day 10.00am –<br />
3.00pm Tuesdays weather<br />
permitting all welcome.<br />
Yvonne 01908 320405 or<br />
Mandy on 01908 319719<br />
Towcester Bridge Club<br />
Meet 7.20pm for a 7.30 start,<br />
every Tuesday for friendly<br />
duplicate bridge at Towcester<br />
Conservative Club. Price Table<br />
Money £2.50 for members<br />
£3.50 for visitors. Membership<br />
£10 annually. More information<br />
Lynda Riecken, lynda@riecken.<br />
co.uk. New players welcome.<br />
www.bridgewebs.com/towcester<br />
Towcester & District<br />
Art Society<br />
Meet every Thursday<br />
throughout the year in<br />
Paulerspury Village Hall.<br />
www.towcesterart.com<br />
SENIORS<br />
Deanshanger Day Centre<br />
Hot lunch, tea, coffee, bingo<br />
& raffle etc for seniors in<br />
Deanshanger, Old Stratford and<br />
Wicken. Transport available for<br />
wheelchairs. Thursday 9.30am-<br />
2.30pm Pat Ridgeway<br />
01908 564420<br />
Senior Citizens Afternoon<br />
Tea, coffee, home-made cakes. All<br />
welcome. Last Friday of month,<br />
2.00pm-4.00pm, Memorial Hall,<br />
Deanshanger Road, Old Stratford<br />
(by village shop).<br />
Havencourt Sheltered Home<br />
Bingo Mon 7.00pm & Weds<br />
1.00pm Coffee Morning Fri<br />
10.30am Monthly Lunch Club<br />
£4.20 pp 12.30pm<br />
linda.wallis@<br />
SouthNorthantsHomes.co.uk<br />
Ridgmont, Deanshanger<br />
WOMEN’S<br />
INSTITUTE<br />
Bradwell WI<br />
Friendly afternoon meeting<br />
with interesting speakers, tea<br />
and cake, warm welcome. Olive<br />
Stewart 01908 310267. 2.30pm,<br />
3rd Tuesday of month Sports<br />
& Social Club, Abbey Road,<br />
Bradwell Village.<br />
Castlethorpe WI<br />
Meet 7.30pm, 2nd Thurs of<br />
month Castlethorpe Village<br />
Hall. castlethorpewi@gmail.com<br />
Cosgrove WI<br />
Meet 7.30pm, 1st Tues of the<br />
Month, Cosgrove Village Hall<br />
Deanshanger WI<br />
Visitors and new members<br />
welcome. Visitors £3.50<br />
7.30pm, 2nd Thursday<br />
of month, Deanshanger<br />
Memorial Community Centre,<br />
Deanshanger<br />
Hanslope WI<br />
Meet 7.30pm, 1st Tuesday of<br />
month, Hanslope Village Hall.<br />
Visitors welcome. R. Simpson<br />
01908 510516<br />
tubs@full-moon.eclipse.co.uk<br />
Potterspury WI<br />
Visitor fee – £3.00 7.30pm, 1st<br />
Wed of month, Village Hall,<br />
Potterspury<br />
Stony Stratford WI<br />
Resolutions for National AGM<br />
and work of “Home Instead”–<br />
2.15pm Tuesday, 3 <strong>May</strong><br />
Francesca Skelton – High Sheriff<br />
of Buckinghamshire 2.15pm<br />
Tuesday, 7 <strong>June</strong><br />
Both at York House, London<br />
Road, Stony Stratford<br />
Coach outing to Salisbury,<br />
Wiltshire Thursday, 12 <strong>May</strong><br />
Craft and Chat, Methodist Hall,<br />
Silver Street, Stony Stratford<br />
2.15pm Tuesday, 17 <strong>May</strong> and<br />
Tuesday, 21 <strong>June</strong><br />
gill.williams@fsml.co.uk<br />
Stony Nightingales WI<br />
Resolution meeting – members<br />
only. 8.00pm, Thursday, 12 <strong>May</strong><br />
Tai Chi talk & group session by<br />
Jenny Wong from Wellbeing<br />
MK, comfortable clothing.<br />
8.00pm, Thursday, 14 April.<br />
Visitors welcome £4.00<br />
Swinfen Harris Hall, London<br />
Road, Stony Stratford MK11 1AJ<br />
Julie Clothier – President:<br />
07738 054915 Facebook<br />
Stony Nightingales WI<br />
www.snwi.co.uk<br />
Towcester Evening WI<br />
An active group of women,<br />
meet 7.00pm for 7.30-9.30pm,<br />
1st Thursday of month,<br />
everyone welcome! Visitors may<br />
make a donation for tea/coffee.<br />
Riverside Centre, Islington<br />
Road, Towcester NN12 7AU<br />
towcesterwi.blogspot.co.uk/<br />
Yardley Gobion WI<br />
7.30pm 2nd Thursday of the<br />
month. Yardley Gobion Village<br />
Hall. Visitor fee £3<br />
EVENTS<br />
No Strings<br />
A Cappela Singers – Bach,<br />
Beatles, Barber shops and<br />
beyond 4.00pm Sunday, 8<br />
<strong>May</strong> Tickets Brian Parsons<br />
01234 391962 £15 suggested<br />
minimum donation in aid<br />
of Church fabric. St Firmins<br />
Church, North Crawley.<br />
http://friendsofstfirmins.co.uk<br />
… continued<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
31
What’s On<br />
Automodellismo Model Show<br />
See page 40.<br />
HULA Animal Rescue<br />
Fete & Fun Dog Show<br />
Games, dogs parade, bouncy<br />
castle, pet photo competition,<br />
refreshments, stalls, tombolas<br />
& more. Adults £2 Children £1.<br />
12noon – 4pm Sunday, 15 <strong>May</strong>.<br />
Fab Fathers’ Day<br />
Dogs parade 2.30pm,<br />
refreshments, bazaar & pet bed<br />
shed bargains, treats for your<br />
father. Adults £2. 1.00pm –<br />
4.00pm Sunday, 12 <strong>June</strong>. Glebe<br />
Farm, Salford Road, Aspley<br />
Guise, Milton Keynes, MK17<br />
8HZ. 01908 584000<br />
www.hularescue.org<br />
Buckingham Canal Society<br />
Restoration of disused canal –<br />
practical task conservation work<br />
parties, alternate Thursdays<br />
and 2nd Sunday of each month.<br />
No experience necessary, all<br />
welcome. Thursday 5 & 19,<br />
Sunday, 8 <strong>May</strong>, Thursdays, 2,16<br />
& 30, Sunday, 12 <strong>June</strong>. Meet<br />
10.00am Lock Lane, Cosgrove,<br />
MK19 7JR. 01908 661217 to<br />
confirm or Athinabec@aol.com<br />
www.buckinghamcanal.org.uk<br />
YorkieFest<br />
See page 22 for details York<br />
House, London Road, Stony<br />
Stratford https://www.facebook.<br />
com/yorkiefest/<br />
Milton Keynes Museum<br />
History Festival<br />
Re-enactments through the<br />
years. Many attractions.<br />
11am-4.30pm, 14-15 <strong>May</strong><br />
Lawnmower Day<br />
Annual rally promoting the<br />
collection & preservation<br />
of lawn mowers from 1830<br />
onwards. 11am-4.30pm, 22 <strong>May</strong><br />
Look at Life<br />
Microscope safaris, pond<br />
dipping for watery mini beasts,<br />
food chain, rambles on the<br />
nature trail. 11am-4.30pm,<br />
28-29 <strong>May</strong><br />
Summer Half Term<br />
See page 24.<br />
Victorian Weekend<br />
See page 25 11.00am-4.30pm,<br />
11-12 <strong>June</strong> McConnell Drive,<br />
Wolverton, Milton Keynes<br />
MK12 5EL 01908 316222<br />
www.miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk/<br />
Friends of Deanshanger<br />
Library (FODL)<br />
Children’s crafts, games 3-10<br />
yrs, under 8 must have adult<br />
3pm-5pm Thursday, 2 <strong>June</strong><br />
Fathers Day Crafts<br />
11am-2pm Sunday, 12 <strong>June</strong><br />
Deanshanger Village Library<br />
Julie Atkinson 01908 566353<br />
Wolverton & Stony Stratford<br />
Rotary Club.<br />
Annual Charity Golf Day. See<br />
page 20 for details.<br />
Stony Stratford<br />
Riverside Festival<br />
Family day out with lots of<br />
fun. 1.00pm-4.00pm Saturday,<br />
11 <strong>June</strong>, The Millfield, Stony<br />
Stratford<br />
Flower Festival<br />
Refreshments and music<br />
10.00am–5.00pm Friday,10,<br />
Saturday 11 and 11.00am-<br />
5.00pm Sunday 12 <strong>June</strong>.<br />
St Mary and St Giles Church,<br />
Stony Stratford<br />
Hanslope Open Gardens<br />
See page 49.<br />
Urb Farm<br />
Nature Day<br />
See page 18 for details.<br />
Farm Fest<br />
Live music, locally-sourced<br />
BBQ, farm produce/plants/<br />
preserves/eggs, bouncy<br />
castle, homemade cakes and<br />
refreshments, face painting,<br />
pond dipping, bug hunting,<br />
chickens, craft stalls. Free entry<br />
– all welcome! 1.00-4.00pm<br />
Saturday, 25 <strong>June</strong><br />
The Urb Farm, Between 196-<br />
198, Windsor Street, Wolverton,<br />
Milton Keynes, MK12 5DR.<br />
Contact Florie on<br />
07793 589 872 for more info.<br />
SPORTS: WHAT’S ON<br />
Aerobic Fitness<br />
Over 55s exercise class £5 for non-members. 11.00am, Wed.<br />
Junior Gym 11-15yr olds £5 PAYG. 01908 477066‚<br />
www.happybodies.co.uk, Furtho Court, Old Stratford, MK19 6AN<br />
Badminton<br />
Feathers Badminton Club 2.00-4.00pm Wed £3.<br />
Mill Mead Hall, Wolverton. Janet Baldwin 01908 373966 or<br />
mr.baldwin@btinternet.com<br />
Bowling<br />
Castlethorpe Short Mat Bowls Club. New members welcome –<br />
experienced or beginners. Castlethorpe Village Hall, Tues 2.15-<br />
4.15pm, Wed 7.30-9.30pm & Fri evenings Dave 07731 670457<br />
Paulerspury Bowling Club. New members welcome 7.30pm Tues<br />
Paulerspury Village Hall. Contact Ann on 01327 811352<br />
Wolverton Town Bowls Club junction with Cambridge Street and<br />
Furze Way, Wolverton. Joe 01908 562952<br />
Croquet<br />
Stony Stratford Croquet Club<br />
Ostlers Lane, Stony Stratford MK11 1AR. Roy 01908 566345<br />
Cycling<br />
Twenty3c Shop Bike Ride 30 miles approx 15mph. Meet at shop,<br />
Free. 01908 260322 for time and dates<br />
Football<br />
Deanshanger Colts & Divas. For girls and boys, under 6s – under<br />
16s. www.deanshangercolts.co.uk<br />
Hanslope Hornets Training. Every Sunday. Alfie 01908 510367<br />
Karate<br />
Wednesday – Beginners & Seniors Thursday – Adults. Both at<br />
Deanshanger Community Hall Little London Rd, Deanshanger.<br />
Friday Beginners, Seniors, Adults Cosgrove Village Hall Bridge<br />
Road, Cosgrove. First session FREE then £3.50 Huw 07739<br />
707455 for times at www.karategoju.co.uk<br />
Newton Longville & Wolverton Kickboxing<br />
First lesson free. 07910 154499 or lauren.ecka@hotmail.co.uk<br />
Milton Keynes Squash Club<br />
Turn up and play. 5.00pm-7.00pm Sat £3 members, £5<br />
nonmembers. Kiln Farm 077294 14000<br />
david.boyd@mksquash.co.uk<br />
Stony Stratford <strong>Local</strong> Walking Group<br />
Guided walks of 45-60 minutes at your own pace followed by<br />
tea, coffee and a chat. Meet at Mill Lane/Willow Lane at 10.00am<br />
every Friday. More information Mary Kendall 01908 260570<br />
Winslow District Ramblers<br />
Max 4-5 mile walks within 20 mile radius of Winslow.<br />
winslowramblers@gmail.com or see<br />
www.bucksvoice.net/winslowdistrict-ramblers-group<br />
Haversham Sailing Club Open Day<br />
All ages welcome to try the sport of sailing, experienced helms<br />
will take you out on the water and explain how inexpensive it can<br />
be to get started. 24 High Street, Haversham. MK19 7DX. The<br />
event is free between 10.00am 4.30pm, Saturday,14 <strong>May</strong><br />
mail@havershamsc.org www.havershamsc.org<br />
Stantonbury Judo Club<br />
The Old Bath House Wolverton. Ages 5 – 50+. 01908 220748<br />
www.stantonburyjudoclub.co.uk 6.00pm-8.00pm Fri<br />
Towcester and District Table Tennis League<br />
Looking for new players to join the league. All abilities welcome.<br />
Rod Barr 01604 847948 or 07885 108559 tt.rodbarr@gmail.com<br />
www.tabletennis365.com/Towcester<br />
Wolverton Tennis Club Coaching<br />
Coaching for all with a range of memberships. Pete Tolaini,<br />
0774 0004548. Email wolvertontennis@hotmail.com, Facebook,<br />
clubspark.lta.org.uk/WolvertonTennisClub<br />
32<br />
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Business Services<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
33
Business<br />
Landlords beware<br />
The Co-Operative Legal Services estimate that 38,000<br />
families end up in prolonged probate disputes, with up<br />
to 10% of the value of an estate lost in fees. If you aren’t<br />
From 1 April <strong>2016</strong> private landlords can no longer deduct<br />
married to your partner, have children from previous<br />
the cost of their mortgage interest from their rental income<br />
relationships, wish to split properties, own a business, have<br />
when they calculate the profit on which they pay tax. The<br />
overseas properties or investments or are unsure about<br />
changes will be phased in over 4 years and means landlords<br />
inheritance tax, get professional advice. And remember, if<br />
will now pay tax on turnover rather than profit. Analysts<br />
a professionally written will is later found to be defective in<br />
believe that returns for higher-rate taxpayers may be wiped<br />
any way, your family will have someone to sue.<br />
out by 2020 and basic rate taxpayers will move into the<br />
higher-rate For more tax information bracket. Landlords talk to Ashley not requiring Mirfin mortgages<br />
will from not be Simply affected. Wills 01908 866541<br />
The Bank of England is also going to make it harder for<br />
landlords to get mortgages. Private landlords can offset<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
mortgage costs and so have a competitive advantage over<br />
first-time and younger buyers. The vicious cycle caused<br />
by rental demand pushing up income is forcing potential<br />
homeowners to stay in rented accommodation, thus<br />
increasing demand and prices further. By removing tax<br />
benefits and increasing initial costs (3% stamp duty hike for<br />
31<br />
second home owners) demand for rental properties may<br />
slow and level the playing field.<br />
However, if landlords abandon the housing market supply<br />
will reduce and the remaining landlords may increase rents.<br />
Rent controls may be then needed. Contact Taylor Walsh on<br />
01908 571 555, www.taylorwalsh.co.uk to get more advice.<br />
Milton Keynes’ Businesses<br />
Celebrate Success at Annual Awards<br />
30 years of<br />
successful trading<br />
Morgan Gilder, the independent interior and furniture<br />
specialist, has achieved an incredible success that only<br />
those with their positive attitude and hard work will ever<br />
reach – 30 years of trading. Owners Helen and Jamie<br />
Hills are as passionate today about furnishing and styling<br />
homes as when they first started. Over the years they have<br />
developed an extensive knowledge of brands, furniture,<br />
fabrics, wallpapers and accessories to bring you a choice<br />
of contemporary to more classic styles for your home. Pop<br />
along to take a look for yourself. <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> would like<br />
to wish Morgan Gilder every success for the next 30 years.<br />
14 High Street, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1AF<br />
01908 568 674 • web@morgangilder.co.uk<br />
www.morgangilder.co.uk<br />
34<br />
<strong>Local</strong> people and businesses had a great success at the<br />
Milton Keynes Annual Business Awards.<br />
Wolverton Mill based National Locums impressed the<br />
judges with its sustained growth, including the imminent<br />
launch of its operations overseas, earning it the title of<br />
Business of the Year <strong>2016</strong> as well as the Professional<br />
Practice Award. Dr Ann Limb CBE DL was awarded<br />
MKBAA Lifetime Achievement Award for her significant<br />
contribution to the Milton Keynes business community. The<br />
environmental award went to Wolverton based Bridgman<br />
and Bridgman LLP who contribute hugely to the local area.<br />
This is the third year of the awards and Chair of MKBLP,<br />
Dr Philip Smith MBE said: “Milton Keynes Business<br />
Achievement Awards continues to go from strength to<br />
strength, highlighting the dynamic and innovative approach<br />
taken by so many of Milton Keynes’ inspiring businesses.”<br />
<strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> would like to congratulate the excellent<br />
work by our local businesses.<br />
Please mention <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> when responding to adverts
Business Services<br />
The Co-Operative Legal Services estimate that 38,000<br />
families end up in prolonged probate disputes, with up<br />
to 10% of the value of an estate lost in fees. If you aren’t<br />
married to your partner, have children from previous<br />
relationships, wish to split properties, own a business, have<br />
overseas properties or investments or are unsure about<br />
inheritance tax, get professional advice. And remember, if<br />
a professionally written will is later found to be defective in<br />
any way, your family will have someone to sue.<br />
Bridgman & Bridgman are<br />
thrilled to have won first place<br />
in the Environment Category of<br />
the Milton Keynes Business<br />
Achievement Awards <strong>2016</strong>. Our<br />
commitment to reducing our CO2<br />
emissions, through our operations<br />
and the green services we offer, will<br />
hopefully have a positive impact on the<br />
planet for future generations.<br />
For more information talk to Ashley Mirfin<br />
from Simply Wills 01908 866541<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
31<br />
ve<br />
if<br />
in<br />
31<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
35
Community<br />
History is brewing<br />
For centuries the traditional British pub<br />
has been an essential part of community<br />
life, yet it was the Roman army who<br />
introduced tabernae (Italian wine bars)<br />
to our isles, which became known as<br />
pubs during King Henry VII’s reign.<br />
Beer production began from a<br />
Celtic tradition and was so popular by<br />
medieval times that it was consumed<br />
daily throughout the British Isles and<br />
was safer than water! Commercial<br />
breweries have ended brewing on the<br />
premises and changed other great<br />
traditions but The Campaign for Real<br />
Ale (CAMRA) continues to promote<br />
small brewers, real ale, real cider and<br />
the traditional pub<br />
Our area has long links with brewing.<br />
Farmer Amos, (1874-1970) and at least<br />
two generations before him grew the<br />
grain that they malted at Castlethorpe<br />
Maltings. Mr W. Pike, brewer at Frank<br />
Bull’s brewery, used these malts and<br />
hops to brew beer and the cooper,<br />
Mr Branson, supplied the barrels and<br />
wooden beer bottles to keep it in.<br />
Frank and his 14 horses carted the beer<br />
as far as Dunstable as the good water<br />
was considered to make great bitter<br />
beer. This beer was also important<br />
to locals like Danny Dick and his two<br />
nephews from Hanslope. At 3.00am<br />
they mowed the hay meadows with<br />
their scythes, resting from 9.00-<br />
10.00am with the ‘old’ beer bottle<br />
before going home between 8.00-<br />
9.00pm. Farmer Amos believed they<br />
drunk about 6 gallons (48 pints) of beer<br />
a day and apparently worked well!<br />
In the late 19th and early 20th<br />
centuries there were 3 public houses in<br />
Cosgrove and one on the Castlethorpe<br />
Road. <strong>Local</strong> authors Bryan Dunleavy,<br />
Ken Daniels and Andy Powell, in<br />
their book Inns of Stony Stratford,<br />
discovered 85 inn names that have<br />
been recorded in Stony Stratford<br />
at one time or another. During the<br />
coaching era, over twenty inns thrived<br />
along Towcester’s High Street and the<br />
early 18th century<br />
Saracen’s Head<br />
survives today.<br />
In 1801<br />
Pickering Phipps<br />
started brewing<br />
in Towcester,<br />
opening his<br />
second brewery<br />
in Northampton<br />
in 1817. After<br />
a fire in 1900,<br />
production moved<br />
to Northampton<br />
and by the end<br />
of the 1900s<br />
Phipps was the<br />
largest brewer in the Midlands, taking<br />
over several other local brewers and<br />
then merging with the Northampton<br />
Brewery Co Ltd. London based Watney<br />
Mann took over in the 1960s and<br />
removed traditional hand pumps from<br />
all the local pubs encouraging the<br />
formation of CAMRA. In the 1970s<br />
Carlsberg, the Danish brewer became<br />
the owners.<br />
Today brewing history is still being<br />
made locally. In 1811 an iron trough<br />
was installed high above the Great<br />
Ouse to allow the Grand Union Canal<br />
to flow from north to south. Beneath<br />
it a small tunnel or cattle creep was<br />
created to allow livestock to pass. Over<br />
200 years later and a few metres south<br />
a cattle creep of a very different nature<br />
has been created. It takes the form of<br />
malt spirit, filling an old Madeira cask<br />
and waiting to complete its journey<br />
to become Milton Keynes’ first ever<br />
whisky in October 2018. The whisky is<br />
the product of a collaboration between<br />
Milton Keynes’ first brewery, the iconic<br />
Concrete Cow Brewery and Wharf<br />
Distillery, Milton Keynes’ first ever<br />
distillery. This will soon become part<br />
of our new rich and cherished history.<br />
Make sure you visit our brewers but take<br />
care of the history you may be making<br />
when drinking such local specialities!<br />
Thanks to Laurence Conisbee, Virtual<br />
Orchard, Dan Bonner, Concrete Cow<br />
and Wendy Page, Cosgrove history<br />
website for their valued contributions.<br />
Old Photos courtesy of Colin Kightley.<br />
36<br />
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Home Services<br />
38<br />
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Home Services<br />
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Call Emma on 01908 380777<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
35 33 39
Community<br />
Classic Stony<br />
9.30am-4.30pm,<br />
Sunday, 5 <strong>June</strong><br />
The Market Square and other<br />
streets, Stony Stratford<br />
Classic Stony (formerly Stony Stratford<br />
Classic Car and Motorcycle Festival)<br />
is back for its 8th year with more<br />
fabulous displays of classic and<br />
vintage cars and motorcycles.<br />
Such is the popularity of the event<br />
that the gathering of vehicles is no<br />
longer confined to The Market Square,<br />
displays can also be found in Stony<br />
Stratford’s High Street and Cofferidge<br />
Close. Proud owners are keen for you<br />
to see their cherished and spectacular<br />
cars and bikes – from the concourse<br />
to the well–used a few fond memories<br />
will be triggered for even for least carloving<br />
visitor.<br />
Classic Stony is run by a team of<br />
dedicated volunteers in partnership<br />
with Stony Stratford Business<br />
Association and aims to raise essential<br />
funds for Willen Hospice. It is free to<br />
attend although you are encouraged<br />
to donate as generously as you can.<br />
Last year’s event raised an astounding<br />
£5,150.00 – let’s hope that this year<br />
the results will be even better.<br />
If you would like to bring your car<br />
or bike along – pre 1976 cars must<br />
be pre-registered for the Market<br />
Square prestige parking and you<br />
will be asked for a minimum £10<br />
donation. Alternatively if you have<br />
a car of around 25 years of age and<br />
over, supercar or another interesting<br />
or unusual vehicle bring it down on<br />
the day and use parking areas like<br />
Cofferidge Close or the High Street.<br />
You won’t have to pre-register,<br />
however you will be asked for a small<br />
donation of about £5.<br />
This year’s awards will take place at<br />
12.30pm in the Market Square – there<br />
are categories for best of show, best<br />
of British, best saloon, best sports<br />
car and best bike. Could your car be<br />
amongst the winners?<br />
As usual The Market Square will<br />
host live music and many of the<br />
shopkeepers, publicans and restaurant<br />
owners are opening their doors for<br />
you to join the revelry. There will also<br />
be a vintage fly past.<br />
If in doubt please contact Classic<br />
Stony at info@ssccf.co.uk<br />
For further information and preregistration<br />
visit the website www.<br />
classicstony.co.uk.<br />
This is a very informal gathering<br />
of like-minded individuals and<br />
enthusiasts with no company or<br />
individual profiteering, all donations<br />
will go to Willen Hospice. Vehicles<br />
should arrive after 9.30am and go<br />
to the chosen area, the volunteer<br />
team of marshals will point you in<br />
the right direction. Your donation<br />
will go to Willen Hospice (if you<br />
haven’t pre-booked). It can get busy<br />
at peak times with parking spaces<br />
a rare commodity for those arriving<br />
in the middle of the day, so please<br />
show some patience while the team<br />
get you parked. This might involve<br />
cruising around the town and even<br />
parking outside designated display<br />
areas.<br />
Automodellismo 6 – Model Show<br />
10.00am to 3.30pm Sunday 15th <strong>May</strong>, Hanslope Village Hall<br />
This is the 6th year that Automodellismo has met at<br />
Hanslope Village Hall for its display of model kits for<br />
assembly and assembled with the theme of automobiles.<br />
The displays offer incredibly realistic models as well as<br />
some exciting remote control trucks in the car park. This<br />
40<br />
year the show is expanding and it will feature the Tamiya<br />
Truckin display. For more details go to www.hamex.co.uk/<br />
The HaMeX events are small and select and are cohosted<br />
by Mat Irvine; Paul Fitzmaurice and occasionally<br />
David Jefferis.<br />
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To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
41<br />
37 35 41
Community<br />
Beware the cloners<br />
Consumer holiday headache?<br />
Reports show that due to improved<br />
number plate checking technology,<br />
criminals prefer to use cloned number<br />
plates taken from vehicles that are upto-date<br />
with MOT, tax and insurance,<br />
rather than making up false plates.<br />
Innocent car owners may receive<br />
speeding tickets for offences they<br />
have not committed and/or visits<br />
from the police because their cloned<br />
number plate has been used on a<br />
vehicle involved in a serious crime.<br />
Shopping The DVLA for keeps gifts and a register souvenirs of is<br />
an number important plate part suppliers, of our who holidays are and<br />
most required of the by time law to we’re check happy evidence with our of<br />
purchases. entitlement What and identity happens, before though, selling if<br />
you a new get plate. home The and suppliers find that must the Gucci also<br />
sunglasses keep records you and bought enforcement in Italy are officers<br />
counterfeit, can take action the where phone this you is bought not done.<br />
in However, France does it is easy not to work, buy or plates the hotel<br />
you online stayed from in overseas have accidently and avoid overcharged<br />
checks, so and this you safeguard are having is far trouble from<br />
these<br />
sorting fool-proof. out the issue.<br />
To avoid becoming a victim<br />
of number plate cloning:<br />
• Obscure your registration number in<br />
any photos of your car you upload<br />
to any website, even if you are<br />
selling it.<br />
• If you are buying second hand,<br />
always ask to see the V5C (the<br />
vehicle registration document).<br />
• Check the MOT dates, compare the<br />
mileage with that recorded on the<br />
The DVLA European database Consumer and look carefully Centre<br />
is part at the of vehicle an EU-wide identification network number of 30<br />
European and engine Consumer identity Centres plates and (ECC-<br />
Net) stickers who offer: for evidence of tampering.<br />
• Advice If you are and concerned information for any UK way,<br />
consumers consider buying who are a different having vehicle.<br />
problems If you buy with a car a with company a cloned based in<br />
another number European plate you risk country; losing both<br />
• Intervention the vehicle and in disputes your money. where the<br />
consumer and trader are unable to<br />
reach If you a suspect positive your outcome. car may have<br />
The UK European Consumer Centre<br />
is co-funded by the UK Government’s<br />
Department for Business, Innovation<br />
and Skills (BIS) and the European<br />
Commission.<br />
There is a European Consumer<br />
Centre been cloned, in every call EU the country, police as and well the as<br />
in DVLA Norway immediately. and Iceland, Your so number you can plate get<br />
help will be and entered advice on at to home a “hot” for problems list and<br />
that traffic occurred police alerted. abroad.<br />
So Motoring if you have organisations shopped and abroad<br />
and publications you need such some as help, the AA contact and the<br />
European AutoTrader, Consumer provide guidance Centre and<br />
tips E-mail: to help ecc@tsi.org.uk<br />
when purchasing a used<br />
car. Telephone The Citizens +44(0)1268 Advice Consumer 886 690<br />
(lines Helpline open on 9am 03454 – 4pm) 040506 can<br />
provide Website: advice http://www.ukecc.net/<br />
should anything go<br />
contact-us/index.cfm<br />
wrong with your purchase .<br />
42 36<br />
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To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
37 41 43
Home Services<br />
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Building Services<br />
Groundwork and foundations are the most important part<br />
of a drive, taking time and money, don’t skimp.<br />
.<br />
o<br />
.<br />
t<br />
Reminders<br />
1. Don’t deal with door to door salespeople.<br />
2. Don’t agree to work if you only have a<br />
mobile number and no landline or address.<br />
3. Check the local press and Trading Standards<br />
for cowboys.<br />
4. Check for membership of professional bodies.<br />
5. Check insurance and guarantees.<br />
6. Deposits should be 10% of the total price;<br />
insist on a receipt.<br />
e<br />
t<br />
s<br />
To advertise Please mention please <strong>Essentially</strong> call 01908 380777<br />
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39 45
Community<br />
Domestic Services<br />
Ken<br />
Daron<br />
Andrew<br />
Phil<br />
They’re brave (maybe mad)… now show your support<br />
Preparation is well underway for the<br />
four Run the Country blokes and their<br />
gruelling 134 mile ultra-marathon<br />
challenge across 4 days, beginning in<br />
Whitehaven on 25th August, ending in<br />
Sunderland on 28th.<br />
Training is more physically and<br />
mentally demanding as the run itself.<br />
They are distance training, building<br />
strength in their legs for the hills and<br />
stretching to reduce injury. Andrew<br />
ran over 280km in March, about<br />
the same distance as Milton Keynes<br />
to Liverpool. During April, Daron’s<br />
running took him up 1,313 metres of<br />
ascent, almost as high as Ben Nevis.<br />
All four of the team, including Ken<br />
and Phil, have suffered set backs with<br />
injury, but no-one has considered, or<br />
is considering, giving up. This is real<br />
endurance training – tough on the<br />
body, even harder on the mind.<br />
There is no personal gain from this.<br />
No big party at the end, no medal<br />
that you get at the end of a 10K. It is<br />
simply four very brave – or maybe mad<br />
– blokes who want to raise awareness<br />
and money for some really important<br />
charities that mean a lot to each of<br />
them for many different reasons.<br />
Read the story, follow the blog and<br />
sponsor at www.runthecountry.net<br />
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Domestic Services<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
43 47
Community<br />
SSIB News<br />
Stony Stratford is looking stunning<br />
and over the last couple of months<br />
residents and visitors have been able<br />
to enjoy some glorious displays of<br />
spring colour:<br />
• polyanthus and daffodils around<br />
Wolverton Road Recreation ground,<br />
• spring bulbs in the Millennium beds<br />
at the entrances to town,<br />
• the host of daffodils cascading<br />
down the bank at the Ostlers Lane<br />
town entrance (sponsored by Ron<br />
and Eileen Cox) and<br />
• spring bulbs and blooms at the<br />
Galley Hill and Fullers Slade beds.<br />
Maintenance work<br />
The never-ending weeding and<br />
pruning continues around town. Cow<br />
parsley was threatening to suffocate<br />
the bluebell shoots at the Bluebell<br />
Wood, where many have self-seeded<br />
from last year. Now the cow parsley<br />
has once again been removed,<br />
you can look out for an even more<br />
extensive carpet of blue this <strong>May</strong>.<br />
Replacing<br />
As shrubs get leggy and need<br />
replacing, SSIB see this as an<br />
opportunity to re-style and a great<br />
starting point for a facelift is the oval<br />
bed on the corner of Calverton Road<br />
and Ousebank. You will soon see a<br />
warm, colourful display as lavender is<br />
replaced by dwarf hebes.<br />
Big Lunch Events<br />
There are two big lunch events taking<br />
place this <strong>June</strong>, both with the Queen’s<br />
Birthday as their theme. Stony In<br />
Bloom has been asked to play a part<br />
48<br />
and volunteers will be offering a<br />
hanging basket workshop – baskets<br />
will be planted up with red, white and<br />
blue plants for both events.<br />
Talk by Alan Marham, grounds<br />
manager, Open University<br />
Alan Marham presented an interesting<br />
illustrated talk on how he planned the<br />
much admired naturalistic planting in<br />
the OU grounds and Legacy bed for<br />
this year’s SSIB horticultural talk. The<br />
generous donations received from<br />
those who came to hear him will help<br />
SSIB to buy William Shakespeare roses<br />
Flower Festival<br />
St Mary and St Giles Church, Stony Stratford<br />
10th, 11th and 12th <strong>June</strong> <strong>2016</strong> – during celebrations<br />
to mark the Queen’s official birthday<br />
St Mary and St Giles Church in<br />
Stony Stratford is hosting a Flower<br />
Festival. Pop in to admire the flower<br />
arrangements depicting the Coronation,<br />
silver, golden and diamond jubilees,<br />
the Queen’s visit to Stony Stratford<br />
and events that have taken place in<br />
the town. There will also be music,<br />
refreshments, including cream teas,<br />
and an exhibition of work produced by<br />
children at the local school.<br />
The festival will be open 10am –<br />
5pm Friday and Saturday and 11am –<br />
Diary dates<br />
• 5th <strong>June</strong> – Big Lunch at the<br />
Wolverton Road Recreation<br />
ground. Organised by the<br />
events committee and<br />
supported with a grant from<br />
MK Community Foundation.<br />
• 11th <strong>June</strong> – Big Lunch at Spider<br />
Park. Organised by The Fullers<br />
Slade Residents Association and<br />
assisted with funding from the<br />
Regeneration Fund.<br />
to commemorate 400 years since the<br />
Bard’s death.<br />
School Work<br />
Children are as enthusiastic as ever in the<br />
SSIB garden sessions. They have been<br />
planting out chitted potatoes and sowing<br />
carrots, spring onions and parsley.<br />
5pm on the Sunday. No entrance fee<br />
but donations to the church would be<br />
appreciated.<br />
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Garden Services<br />
Garden Services & Home<br />
Hanslope Open Gardens<br />
10.30am – 5.00pm Saturday, 25 <strong>June</strong><br />
1.30pm – 5.00pm Sunday, 26 <strong>June</strong><br />
This year the 6th Hanslope Open Gardens is supporting<br />
the St James Church Bell Restoration Fund.<br />
This great event will see beautiful gardens open in the<br />
village and a Festival of Flowers in the Church. Look out<br />
for the competition in each of the gardens visited and<br />
the Call plant Emma sale in the on church. 01908 There is 380777 free car parking and<br />
refreshments at the Village Hall.<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
47 49
Gardening<br />
Plan ahead<br />
Make <strong>2016</strong> the year when you proudly<br />
place your items on the show bench<br />
at your local Harvest Show, instead<br />
of admiring everyone else’s entries,<br />
thinking ‘I could have put in a better<br />
entry than that!’<br />
Don’t wait for the schedules to<br />
appear in Odell’s or your local shop<br />
but select your best plants now and<br />
keep them watered, supported and<br />
harvested until shortly before you will<br />
need your entries. This is one time<br />
when big is better if you’re going for<br />
the largest in show categories, so start<br />
experimenting with plant tonics and<br />
read up on what winners do to get<br />
results. Go along to your local library<br />
and study the gardening shelves.<br />
Don’t forget the produce categories<br />
and keep an eye out for attractive jars<br />
in which to present your pickles and<br />
jams. Keep your best separate in case<br />
they are eaten by mistake before the<br />
big day!<br />
Protect fruit crops<br />
It is bad enough to lose part of your<br />
berry crops to birds but even more<br />
annoying when they get stuck into<br />
your strawberries before they are even<br />
ripe. Having tried the lazy method of<br />
draping bushes with netting, I have to<br />
admit that erecting a rigid framework<br />
first is time well spent. Birds are less<br />
likely to penetrate your defences, or<br />
get tangled up while attempting to<br />
do so and the fruit itself is less likely<br />
to grow through the netting when you<br />
aren’t looking.<br />
Weed before you start, so that<br />
vigorous growth doesn’t block sunlight<br />
from ripening crops and mulch the<br />
fruit with well-rotted compost. Making<br />
your own cage from canes is less<br />
expensive but make sure you prevent<br />
painful accidents by putting tips on the<br />
canes. If you will be growing fruit for<br />
several years consider buying a readymade<br />
cage, which will save time and<br />
frustration. It is definitely worth investing<br />
in good quality netting. Don’t forget<br />
to remove the netting when you have<br />
harvested the last fruit, so that you can<br />
weed the area. And don’t forget to save<br />
a pot of your jam for the Show!<br />
Watch out for weather<br />
A late frost can really go for beans and<br />
potato tops as well as bedding plants,<br />
so don’t be tempted to plant out too<br />
early and keep potatoes earthed up.<br />
Fleece and newspaper can provide<br />
some protection if frost is forecast.<br />
At the same time drying winds can<br />
do damage to young growth and dry<br />
out seedbeds, so keep watering cans<br />
filled and at the ready.<br />
After the last frosts – don’t you<br />
love seed packets that tell you to<br />
sow ‘six weeks before the last frost’?<br />
– non-delicate house plants can be<br />
brought outside to a sheltered spot<br />
in the garden for a fresh air treat and<br />
prepared pots and window boxes<br />
brought out from the greenhouse,<br />
coldframe or conservatory. Harden<br />
them off for a few days before leaving<br />
them out overnight and don’t forget<br />
to check whether they need watering.<br />
Happy gardening!<br />
Sheila Harvey<br />
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.<br />
Garden Services & Home<br />
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To advertise please call 01908 380777 49<br />
47<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
45 51
Community<br />
Essential Numbers…<br />
For all the everyday useful numbers you may need<br />
HOSPITALS<br />
Milton Keynes General Hospital 01908 660033<br />
Northampton General Hospital 01604 634700<br />
HEALTH CENTRES<br />
Hanslope Practice – Drs Younus, Hillier, Moore, Otto,<br />
Shah, Taylor, Barter & Wedgbrow 01908 510230<br />
Paulerspury Practice – Dr Ward 01327 811630<br />
Stony Medical Centre 01908 260382<br />
Stony Stratford Health Visitors, Physios 01908 565555<br />
The Stonedean Practice 01908 261155<br />
Towcester Medical Centre – Drs Ward,<br />
N. Odwell & A. Odwell 01327 359953<br />
Wolverton Health Centre – Dr SA Mushtaq<br />
and Partners 01908 222954<br />
Wolverton Health Visitors, District Nurses,<br />
Podiatry, Physiotherapy 01908 316633<br />
NHS Direct Textphone 111<br />
INFORMATION SERVICES<br />
AgeUK Information and Advice 01908 560822<br />
SUPPORT LINES<br />
Samaritans 0845 790 9090<br />
Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 769 7555<br />
VETERINARY SURGEONS<br />
The Vet Centre<br />
Old Stratford 01908 567272<br />
Maids Moreton 01280 812057<br />
POLICE<br />
Non emergency calls 101<br />
Crimestoppers 0800 555 111<br />
Victim Support Line 0845 30 30 900<br />
Emergencies 999<br />
COUNCILS<br />
Aylesbury Vale District Council 01296 585858<br />
Buckinghamshire County Council 01296 395000<br />
Text phone 01296 383111<br />
Milton Keynes Council 01908 691691<br />
Northamptonshire County Council 0300 126 1000<br />
South Northamptonshire Council 0845 2300226<br />
Using your Library… opening times<br />
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday<br />
Deanshanger Closed Closed 10am-2pm 2pm-6pm 2pm-6pm 10am-2pm 11am-2pm<br />
0300 126 1000<br />
Stony Stratford Closed 9am-7pm 9am-5.30pm 9am-5.30pm 9am-5.30pm 9am-1pm Closed<br />
01908 562562<br />
Towcester 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-6pm 9am-5pm 1pm-4pm<br />
0300 126 1000<br />
Wolverton Closed 10am-7pm 10am-5.30pm 10am-5.30pm 10am-5.30pm 10am-1pm Closed<br />
01908 312812<br />
Mobile Library Times – South Northants 2nd Wednesday of month<br />
• Information points • <strong>Local</strong> Enquiries • Council Enquiries • Bus Pass Registration<br />
• A Place to Donate • Large Print Books • Children’s Books • Audio Books<br />
Potterspury Homestead Way 1.00pm-1.25pm<br />
Old Stratford Memorial Hall, Deanshanger Road<br />
1.40pm-2.00pm<br />
Cosgrove Bridge Road/Stratford Road 2.10pm-2.30pm<br />
Grafton Regis 5 Church Lane<br />
3.45pm-4.15pm<br />
Hartwell 11 Blacksmith’s Way 4.35pm-5.00pm<br />
Alderton 10 Pury Road 5.45pm-6.05pm<br />
Enquiries www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/leisure/libraries<br />
Deanshanger Branch Surgery<br />
Little London, Deanshanger<br />
Footcare Clinic. Information<br />
and appointments call Janice.<br />
07758633760 / 01908 387021<br />
The Stonedean Practice<br />
Branch Surgery – weekly.<br />
Doctor EVERY Tuesday<br />
afternoon 4.00pm-5.00pm<br />
(with minor exceptions). Nurse<br />
every OTHER Tuesday<br />
11.30 am-12.30pm. Stonedean<br />
Practice on 01098 261155<br />
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Garden & Home<br />
Delivery people<br />
required for Hanslope<br />
to deliver <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong>.<br />
Good rates of pay.<br />
Call Emma on 01908 380777<br />
Garden Services<br />
Garden & Home<br />
To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
49<br />
Delivery people<br />
required for Hanslope<br />
to deliver <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong>.<br />
Good rates of pay.<br />
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To advertise please call 01908 380777<br />
49 53
Essential Advertisers<br />
ACCOMMODATION<br />
Furtho Manor Farm 25<br />
AERIAL & CABLE<br />
MKL Cable Solutions 38<br />
BUILDING & PROPERTY SERVICES<br />
Antony Thompson Architect 43<br />
Handyman Property Services 44<br />
Hickford Construction Ltd 45, 53<br />
Ian Bodily Building Services 43<br />
Morris Roofing & Leadworks 43<br />
Premier Improvements 44<br />
Ron Cave Roofing 42<br />
Sapwell’s 43<br />
Thomas Betts & Co 42, 43<br />
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL<br />
Bridgman & Bridgman LLP 35<br />
Ellesse Financial 33<br />
Furtho Manor Farm 25<br />
Magical Maths 25<br />
MK Box Self Storage 35<br />
Russell HR 33<br />
Simply Wills 33<br />
CHILDREN<br />
Acorn Childcare 25<br />
Magical Maths 25<br />
Youth Bardic Trials 24<br />
CLEANING & DOMESTIC<br />
Carpet Pride MK 47<br />
Domestique 47<br />
Iron It Out 46<br />
Linda’s Sewing Services 46<br />
Oven Pride 47<br />
Ovenvaleting 46<br />
Rob Bracey, Septic Tank 38<br />
The Stainbusters 47<br />
Vickie’s Cleaning 46<br />
COMPUTER SALES & REPAIRS<br />
Baldox Computing 34<br />
PC Laptop and Computer 35<br />
ELECTRICAL SERVICES<br />
Microwave Service Centre 38<br />
MKL Cable Solutions 38<br />
FLOWERS & GIFTS<br />
Branch-Out MK 16<br />
FOOD<br />
ARTea Room 17<br />
Bamboo Cottage Chinese Takeaway 19<br />
The Bell Inn 6,7<br />
The Stony Sweet Shop 25<br />
GARDEN SERVICES<br />
Advanced Turf Machinery 49<br />
Bartlett Tree Experts 51<br />
Bridgman & Bridgman LLP 35<br />
Creative Garden Design 51<br />
Firewood 51<br />
Francis Rose Landscaping &<br />
Garden Services 53<br />
Graham Churchill Plant Ltd 55<br />
Grass Master 49<br />
GreenThumb 49<br />
Hickford Construction 53<br />
Linnell Bros Ltd 53<br />
Maxwell Home & Garden Services 53<br />
Prestige Lawns 53<br />
TruGreen 51<br />
GOLDSMITHS<br />
The Goldsmithy 23<br />
HAIR, HEALTH & BEAUTY<br />
Action Physio 11<br />
Clive Heayns Podiatry 13<br />
Grand Union Physiotherapy 13<br />
Happy Bodies Fitness Centre 11, 14<br />
Janice Skillman Foot Health 13<br />
Lanh’s Nail Salon 11<br />
Massage in mind 11<br />
Nails by Sally 13<br />
Pilates 13<br />
HOME INTERIORS<br />
Carpetwise 41<br />
Daniel Chapman Antique Furniture<br />
Restoration & French Polishing 39<br />
G dad’s 25<br />
Handyman Property Services 44<br />
Kenneth Hudson Interiors 39<br />
Linda’s Curtains and Blinds 39<br />
Table and Bench Co. 41<br />
Thomas Betts and Co. 41<br />
Trading Standards 42<br />
Universal Blinds 39<br />
Whittlewood Stoves 41<br />
KITCHENS & BATHROOMS<br />
Leakfix 37<br />
On-Tap Installations 38<br />
LEISURE & HOBBIES<br />
Advance Travel 1,3<br />
ARTea Room 17<br />
Bamboo Cottage 19<br />
Big Wig Ball 15<br />
Drury Holidays 21<br />
Furtho Manor Farm 25<br />
Happy Bodies Fitness Centre 11,14<br />
Magic of Motown 7<br />
Milton Keynes Museum 23, 24<br />
New Orleans Jazz Club 22<br />
One Stop Craft Shop 23<br />
Pilates 13<br />
The Bell Inn 6,7<br />
The Stony Sweet Shop 25<br />
Vitreus Art 23<br />
Virtual Orchard and Wharf Distillery 19<br />
Wolverton Old Bath House &<br />
Community Centre 35<br />
MOTORING & TRANSPORT<br />
G & G Autos 55<br />
Saxon Bridge.com 5, 55<br />
PAINTERS & PLASTERERS<br />
Abercrombie Painter and Decorators 39<br />
BWB Plastering 37<br />
DPL Services 37<br />
SJ Adcock & Son 37<br />
Thomas Betts & Co 37<br />
PETS & VETS<br />
Hand to Paw Pet Services 9<br />
Rekela Kennels & Cattery 9<br />
RSPCA 8<br />
The Vet Centre 8,9<br />
PLUMBING, GAS SERVICING<br />
& HEATING<br />
Add Warmth 38<br />
Leakfix 37<br />
On Tap Installations 38<br />
Premier Heating 38<br />
TAXIS<br />
Skyline 56<br />
WASTE REMOVAL<br />
Graham Churchill Plant Ltd 55<br />
WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES<br />
Cloudy 2 Clear 44<br />
Custom Glaze 45<br />
Shaun Barrass & Sons 45<br />
Thomas Betts & Co 45<br />
Win-Dor 2<br />
WILL WRITING<br />
Simply Wills 33<br />
STONYLIVE! SUPPLEMENT<br />
Thank you to the following businesses for<br />
supporting StonyLive!…<br />
Morgan Gilder<br />
Boutique Organica<br />
Twenty 3c<br />
Taylor Walsh Property Consultants<br />
Disclaimer: We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> and we endeavour to<br />
make sure that all published information is accurate. The publishers cannot be held responsible for loss, damage or omission caused<br />
by error in the printing of adverts or other information. All artwork is accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods<br />
and services are fair and accurate. Advertisers are responsible for checking copyright on all images supplied. <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> has<br />
not vetted the advertisers and cannot accept responsibility for work done or goods supplied by any advertiser. We do not officially<br />
endorse any advertising material included within this magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval<br />
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of <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong>. © <strong>Essentially</strong> <strong>Local</strong> <strong>2016</strong>.<br />
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Motor & Transport<br />
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Taxis<br />
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