Well done to Wild Marlow’s winners 

Liz Nicholls

The judges were impressed with the extremely high standard of entries in the recent photography competition   

Wild Marlow is a group of enthusiasts passionate about wildlife and protecting biodiversity in the Marlow area, engaging the local community through fun events, competitions, volunteering and work parties to raise awareness of the importance of a balanced ecosystem. 

This year’s competition winner in the junior school category is Theo Walker, with Imogen Bater coming a close second. 

The senior school winner is Ben Mills and runner-up Skylar Regan. 

The winner of the adults is Neil Richards, closely followed by Graham Parkinson.  

We love their efforts: what do you think? 

The best photos in each category will be featured at the 2024 Wild Marlow photo exhibition and in the Wild Marlow 2025 calendar, on sale soon. The winners will also take away a total of £300 in prize money. 

“We were impressed at the quality of the entries,” says Jon Perry of Marlow Camera Club. “It was a tough call! These photos demonstrate both the variety and beauty of the wildlife in and around Marlow, and the photographic skills of all the entrants.” 

You can all see the winning photos 10.30am-4.30pm on Saturday, 26th October, at All Saints’ Church Hall, where 12 photos to be featured in the calendar, along with the very best of the entries. The prizes for the winners of the three age categories will be awarded at the exhibition, and the new calendar will be on sale. Visitors will have the chance to vote for their favourite photo, The People’s Choice, on the day. 

Wild Marlow covers all areas of Marlow within the SL7 postcode, including Bisham, Great Marlow, Marlow Bottom and Little Marlow. 

To join visit wildmarlow.org.uk or email [email protected] 


Latest posts

Author In Me (AIM) literary festival

Liz Nicholls

A celebration of “life, experiences, and stories in-between’, The Author In Me Literary Festival is all set for 14th-19th October in London, culminating in a young voices event at Roald Dahl Museum

The festival will feature a dynamic range of events across London celebrating diversity in the world of publishing.

The inaugural event will be at The French Library, the festival will inspire literary lovers of all ages with an exciting line-up that includes author panels, masterclasses, live critiquing sessions, writing workshops, and more. The line-up includes a keynote speech by Lady Kishwar Desai and Q&A with Noel Murphy (commercial director of Granta Publishing) which will be moderated by award-winning TV presenter Anila Dhami who is also a member of the festival’s advisory board.

Debut authors will also launch their latest works, including life coach Bhavya Arora, presenting her bold non-fiction title Where the F**k Do I Go From Here, and Stephen C. Lawley with his book The Catalyst. Both authors will attend, along with several other remarkable writers, to share their unique perspectives and celebrate their contributions to the literary world.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the festival will launch a new book by debut author Priyanka Pandya, a breast cancer survivor and mother of two young girls. Her picture book, When Mummy Had Cancer, stems from her personal experiences and is designed to help families navigate difficult conversations with their children, offering support as they cope with illness and adversity.

Attendees are also invited to join an exciting conversation between film journalist Ashanti Omkar and author Sonia Bahl, as they delve into the growing trend of adapting books into films and series.

Co-founder Ekta Bajaj says: “At the heart of the AIM Literary Festival is a deep passion for storytelling – stories that reflect the lives we live, the experiences we share, and the moments that often go unnoticed.” Fellow co-founder Monica Sood, adds: “I am deeply passionate about creating a platform that amplifies diverse voices and stories from all walks of life. This year, I’m particularly excited to dedicate a day to young voices in collaboration with the Roald Dahl Museum. Alongside established authors, we’ll have young authors showcasing their books, along with fun workshops and reading sessions to inspire young minds to read and write for pleasure. Our goal is to nurture the next generation of storytellers and instil a lifelong love of literature.”

The AIM Young Voices event, 11am-3pm on 19th October at the Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden will feature a host of workshops and book reading sessions including The Quill Soup Adventure with Alan Durant, creating graphic stories with Debasmita Dasgupta, Celebrating You: Beyond the Colour of My Skin with Divya Thomas plus the chance to craft your own personalised book, enjoy live music and inspiring talks.


Latest posts

Crime & enjoyment with Chiltern Kills

Liz Nicholls

The Chiltern Kills crime writing festival in aid of Centrepoint, returns to Gerrards Cross on Saturday, 5th October, with a stellar line-up including Jeffrey Archer, Louise Minchin, Sir Ian Rankin, Robert Thorogood and more.

Best-selling crime authors and TV detectives are converging on Gerrards Cross for the Chiltern Kills 2024 crime and thriller writing festival on Saturday, 5th October.

Sir Ian Rankin of Rebus fame, storytelling genius Jeffrey Archer, and Peter James of the Roy Grace book and ITV series will be joined by TV crime busters Dempsey and Makepeace and the cast of The Bill, from 9am-11pm at the GX Community Association at the historic Colston Hall on East Common in Gerrards Cross.

It’s the second year of Chiltern Kills with all ticket sales again going to the Centrepoint charity to combat youth homelessness. Sir Ian Rankin says: “Centrepoint is a very special charity whose work is – sadly – more necessary than ever. I’m pleased to be able to support them.”

Tickets cost £40 via https://www.chilternkills.com/ or for a little more, you can book a one-to-one session with top literary agent Nicky Lovick from WGM Atlantic. (And whisper it, she’s looking for new authors to join her list.”

Jeffrey Archer said: “I’m looking forward to meeting everyone at Chiltern Kills on 5th October. I’m a great admirer of the work Centrepoint does.”

Chiltern Kills founders, authors Paul Waters and Tony Kent said: “What makes Chiltern Kills special is that authors. including our patron Fredrick Forsyth, and fans all mingle off-stage, in our luxury food village, in our WhoDunHim Inn – where famous authors will be pulling pints, and at our famous Murder A Song karaoke at the end of the day.”

There will be 60 top authors from across the UK, Ireland, north America, Africa and India, on the Poirot and Marple stages. They include debut crime author and former BBC Breakfast TV star, Louise Minchin, Robert Thorogood the creator of Death In Paradise, Harriet Tyce, Nadine Matheson, Ajay Chowdhury and Sarah Pinborough.

Peter James said: “I’m hugely looking forward to Chiltern Kills. It is so wonderful to support Centrepoint, a brilliant charity that does so much to combat youth homelessness – and all the hopelessness and despair that goes with it.”

Every festival goer gets a free tote bag filled with festival goodies. Last year visitors came from as far away as Scotland, Ireland, Devon, Yorkshire, Kent, Manchester and Birmingham. One said: “What a joyous day I had at Chiltern Kills. The vibe was amazing, the choice of food fabulous, drinks were flowing and author panels exceptional!”

Another festival-goer said: “Impeccably organised, with the feel of a family festival, informal, really interesting panels, relaxed writers, so much goodwill, good food and lots of laughter! Bravo Chiltern Kills.”

After last year’s festival, Centrepoint said: “A big thank you to everyone involved with Chiltern Kills for helping us support more young people to reclaim their dreams and build a future beyond homelessness.”

Chiltern Kills 2024 is on Saturday 5th October at Colston Hall on East Common in Gerrards Cross. Tickets via https://www.chilternkills.com/. It would be a crime to miss it!


Latest posts

Waddesdon’s wild wonders, including family wanders!

Liz Nicholls

Among the wonders at Waddesdon manor this month are two highlights from the Zoolab animal-lovers, including exotic animal handling & a woodland trail

Do you love wildlife? Well, make a beeline for Waddesdon manor this month where you can get up close and personal to creatures from afar as well as our own native neighbours who live in the woods!

The Zoolab team are offering Creepy Critters sessions, 11am-4pm on 18th, 20th, 26th & 27th October, when you can meet your witch or wizard host who will introduce you to an array of fascinating creatures, including snakes, lizards, tarantulas, and much more.

These fun, interactive shows are suitable for all ages and are the perfect way to enjoy some spooky Halloween fun with family and friends; adult £6pp, child £8, plus normal grounds admission applies.

The Autumn Adventure Trail, 10am-4pm from 2nd to October (except 7th & 8th) invites you to pick up your trail map and resources pack and take a walk down Miss Alice’s Drive to find all the animal signs. Along the way, Zoolab characters will introduce you to some amazing animals you might find in the woods here in the UK. Keep your eyes peeled for wild squirrels, birds and bugs; free with grounds admission.

And the animal antics don’t stop there! The Flights of Fancy: Birds at Waddesdon exhibition runs until 27th October, as does the Guercino: King David and the Wise Women exhibition. The autumn game dinner on 19th is sold out but why not book in for a spooky afternoon tea on 26th or 27th October?

Autumn is a season of beautiful change, and now until early November it is a great time to explore the gardens at Waddesdon as they transition to hues to scarlet, gold and orange. Collect conkers as you go and warm up with a hot drink from one of Waddesdon’s food-to-go outlets.

It’s also your last chance (until 20th October) to catch up the Guercino at Waddesdon: King David and the Wise Women exhibition in the Red Ante Room in the House, Wed-Sun, 11am-4pm. Over 350 years since they were created, five paintings by renowned Bolognese painter Guercino are on display together for the first time in a historic exhibition at Waddesdon.

Shining a spotlight on one of the great painters of 17th-century Italy, this exhibition brings together King David and Guercino’s depiction of three sibyls – female prophets from classical antiquity – alongside his recently rediscovered Baroque masterpiece Moses, which is on display to the public for the first time ever. Free with house and grounds admission.

Watch this space for Waddesdon’s Christmas highlights! Meanwhile, find out more at Waddesdon Manor


Latest posts

All aquiver for The Bow opening

Liz Nicholls

A beloved pub is due to open soon in the historic village of Waddesdon, on the doorstep of Waddesdon Manor, after being bought by The Rothschild Foundation

Known as The Bell in the 19th century, and after that The Long Dog, the pub has been renamed The Bow in tribute to its older sister establishment in the village, the Five Arrows Hotel, and will open to the public in October.

The Grade II listed building first opened as a public house in 1863. Before that, it housed the bell room for the adjacent 800-year-old St Michael’s and All Angels church.

In the heart of Waddesdon, The Bow has been reborn as a lively, welcoming pub, offering a fresh take on the classic village experience. The team at The Bow aim to offer a true celebration of community spirit, top-tier quality, and locally sourced produce.

Head chef Anthony Skeats, formerly of The Punter in Oxford has more than 25 years of culinary experience. He has crafted an inventive, seasonal menu to highlight fresh ingredients, where possible sourced within ten miles, with meat from nearby farms and vegetables from the surrounding Waddesdon Estate, Eythrope Walled Garden and local farms.

Expect signature smashed burgers, delicious modern pub classics and wonderful desserts, such as a brioche sticky toffee pudding. The kids’ menu features fun and nutritious options and favourites like homemade jellies and ice cream. Families are welcome, with a secure play area.

The welcome news of The Bow’s renaissance comes after TV star Jeremy Clarkson was lauded for his purchase of The Windmill pub overlooking the Windrush Valley in the Cotswolds. Although, when it opens the Bow won’t be serving its own beer – a la the former Top Gear presenter’s Hawkstone brewery – it will support local producers, such as the Boobytrap microbrewery based a couple of miles away in Westcott.

There is a bold wine list catering for all palettes – including a range of Rothschild wines – from the old to the new worlds. The Bow is also offering an exclusive membership programme with access to the pub’s upstairs rooms with quiet, comfortable, collaborative spaces with desks, free WiFi, and cosy seating. For social or business meetings, there is also a private dining room available for members’ parties of up to 12 guests. Director of hospitality Holly Saunders says: “Whether you’re meeting with friends or dialling into a work call, The Bow will be your go-to spot for both social and virtual connections. We’re so excited to be bringing this lovely pub back where it belongs to the heart of this vibrant community and are dedicated to offering delicious food, quality drinks, and a space where everyone feels at home – all at reasonable prices. Join us for our grand opening week and discover why The Bow is set to become the new local favourite. We can’t wait to welcome you!”

Some pub history:

The Grade II listed building is located on the northeastern side of the High Street opposite the Rothschild Estate Office, which has been owned by the Rothschild family since 1874. Parts of the building date back to the 17th and 18th centuries but it has undergone many alterations over the last 200 years.

Before it was bought by the Rothschild Foundation and renamed The Bow, the pub last traded as The Long Dog, before closing in 2022. Before then it was called The Bell, also known historically as the Bell Inn. In 1864, the village of Waddesdon boasted five public houses: the Bell Inn, the Ship Inn, the White Lion, the Baker’s Arms and the Marlborough Arms. The latter is now The Five Arrows Hotel and Restaurant, The Bow’s sister establishment, both of which are run by the team at Waddesdon.

These 19th-century establishments not only catered to locals in the village but also to those passing through, as they travelled along the main Aylesbury-to-Bicester road. It may also be why two nightwatchmen were appointed by the parish council to patrol the streets of Waddesdon in the first half of the 19th century.

The Bow (Bell) originally faced the Ship Inn which was acquired by Miss Alice de Rothschild around 1910 from The Aylesbury Brewery company. The pub and two adjoining cottages adjacent were then demolished and replaced by a new house called The Cedars. In contrast, while The Bow has undergone and witnessed much change in the past two centuries, it will remain very much at the heart of Waddesdon village life.


Latest posts

Crazy Bear’s Okto-BEAR-fest on 5th October

Liz Nicholls

Crazy Bear Stadhampton will be hosting Okto-BEAR-fest – a wild twist on the classic Oktoberfest celebration

Are you ready for a day of beer at the Crazy Bear Stadhampton?

Crazy Bear Stadhampton will host Okto-BEAR-fest – a wild twist on the classic Oktoberfest celebration.

Tickets grant you access to an unforgettable day filled with Bavarian vibes and the Crazy Bear’s very own crazy flair.

Incredible entertainment to see the mood, plus a fantastic selection of great food and beers from Wiper and True Brewery will be available for purchase throughout the day 2-10pm.

Whether you’re there for the beer, the pretzels, or just the good times, this is sure to be a day to remember!


Latest posts

Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems live shows

Liz Nicholls

HEY GIRL…HEY BOY… Superstar DJS…HERE WE GO! Jo Whiley is here with the ultimate 90s party… at Oxford’s o2 Academy on 3rd October and G Live in Guildford on 18th November

Get ready to be transported back to the decade that defined a generation – as the legendary Jo Whiley brings her electrifying new show Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems to your doorstep.

The undisputed queen of this decade of British music will be rummaging through her record bag, dusting off her vinyl and bringing you the biggest hits and hidden gems that shaped the soundtrack of the 90s.

From the rise and huge success of Blur and Oasis to the block rocking beats of The Chemical Brothers and The Prodigy, with Jo behind the decks, this isn’t just a soulless 90’s playlist – it’s a journey through music history. Jo lived every moment, curated every track, and shared the studio and stage with the greatest acts of the decade.

Jo says: “I can’t wait to get back on the road in 2025 and bring the best of the 90s to audiences across the UK. There’s nothing like the energy of a 90s Anthems crowd, and I am looking forward to relive those moments with everyone – from Britpop to Rock to dance, it’s going to be an epic trip down memory lane.”

It really WAS better in the 90s… let Jo Whiley show you with this sensational new show. Prepare for a night of Britpop nostalgia, high-energy beats, the ultimate celebration of the era and let Jo remind you of what you’ve forgotten with this sizzling anthem-packed party to end them all.

Jo is still at the cutting edge of new music and will always be the ultimate authority on the very best of classical sounds of the 90s, Jo is an institution in her own right and a national treasure.

Whether you were rocking out to Britpop, raving to club classics, or living the indie dream, Jo’s got you covered – Jo loved it all and she’s ready to remind you why 90s really were the best time to be alive.


Latest posts

For Your Tomorrow at Stowe Gardens

Liz Nicholls

Stowe Gardens is the UK’s official host for the British D-Day 80 memorial exhibition For Your Tomorrow. You could help by volunteering.

A memorial installation to soldiers killed in the D Day landing on 6th June 1944 is heading to Stowe, the UK’s official host of the commemoration, for exhibition in October.

Open to the public from 1st October to 11th November, the large-scale art installation consists of 1,475 silhouettes of Second World War military personnel.

For Your Tomorrowthe People’s Tribute was created by community artist, Dan Barton with the number of figures in the display representing the number of fatalities under British command on 6th June 1944. The work is currently installed at the British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-mer, France where it will remain over the summer before coming to Stowe.

Tanya Brittain, general manager of the National Trust gardens at Stowe says: “It’s an honour to be chosen as the official UK host location for the British D-Day 80 memorial exhibition, For Your Tomorrow – the People’s Tribute.

“This September will be opportunity to remember family, friends and colleagues lost in conflict situations over the past 80 years. Stowe has a rich military history and we look forward to welcoming visitors this autumn to experience this poignant outdoor art installation against the stunning backdrop of the Stowe’s historic Landscape Gardens.

“The 18th-century landscape garden at Stowe is well known for its many historic buildings and statues and has also featured in many well-known films and TV series. The Capability Brown designed landscape is renowned for its precise placement of eye-catching monuments to create the picture-perfect view. Its beautiful avenues, temples and lakes will provide an impressive outdoor gallery space and backdrop for this celebrated artwork.”

The silhouettes are designed to represent the military personnel from all major services but in addition, two bespoke figures of nurses have been included. They are of Sister Mollie Evershed and Sister Dorothy Field who died while helping to save 75 men from the hospital ship SS Amsterdam which sank off the Normandy beaches on 7th August 1944.

Both were given posthumous commendation for their actions and are the only two women commemorated on the British Normandy Memorial.

Artist Dan Barton has delivered several impactful military-based displays since founding Oxfordshire-based charity Standing with Giants. The life-size figures are constructed entirely by volunteers, using recycled building materials and create meaningful spaces for people to visit and reflect.

“Our ethos at Standing with Giants is to value life, to understand and appreciate why we have our freedom, and to remember and pay tribute to those who have fallen so we can live the lives we have today. Using outdoor art is a great way to do this.” Said Standing with Giants Founder, Dan Barton.

A small section of the installation was seen at Stowe last year when 200 of the silhouettes were displayed at before joining the rest of the figures in Normandy for the D-Day 80 commemorations in June this year. September will be the first time the full size installation has been seen in the UK.

The full installation weighs in excess of 30 tonnes and will take around 15 days to set-up with the help of 30 volunteers each day. The Trust is looking for people to be involved – if you would like to get involved as a volunteer contact [email protected]


Latest posts

Chiltern Toy Bank: could you help?

Liz Nicholls

Could you donate new & (giftable quality) pre-loved toys – between 28th September & 6th October – to bring Christmas cheer to local families in need?

Thanks to the hard work of between 30 & 50 dedicated local volunteers (“Elves”), Chiltern Toy Bank has been providing free toys and gifts at Christmas to children, aged 0-18, living in parts of the Chilterns who would otherwise not receive anything due to financial hardship or other disadvantages of their parents or guardians.

They have operated in and around Chesham, Amersham and Prestwood for over a decade formally became a registered charity in 2018-2019.

Their aim is to make sure that no child will go without a gift over the festive period.

What can I donate?

Any new or pre-loved toys and gifts that are clean, complete and in good condition are welcome. If you wouldn’t gift it to a child in your family for Christmas then they can’t take it. Chiltern Toy Bank particularly needs: arts, crafts and creative kits for ages 8+, science kits for ages 8+, gifts for teenagers aged 13+ (like make-up, toiletries, hats, scarves etc).

They cannot accept soft toys without their CE label attached, any games with missing pieces, books that are scribbled in or have missing pages, colouring and activity books or make-up and arts supplied that are used.

Where can I drop gifts?

Chesham:
• White Hill Centre, White Hill
• Post Office, High Street
• Chesham Town Hall, Parsonage Lane

Prestwood:
• Hildreths Garden Centre
• Wye Country Estate Agent, High Street
• The Pantry at 51
• (All subject to individual opening times)

Amersham:
• Chiltern Lifestyle Centre
• Amersham Common Village Hall, Saturday 28th Sept & Saturday 5th Oct 2-5pm
• King’s Church, Raans Road, Mon 30th Sept – Fri 4th Oct, 9.30am-12pm

To find out more about the charity, or offer to help, or request help, visit Chiltern Toy Bank – Christmas 2023


Latest posts

Get cosy with seasonal interior ideas!

Liz Nicholls

As summer draws to a close, the world of interior design embraces a shift toward spaces that are not only stylish but also profoundly reflective of personal taste. This season’s trends are about creating environments that stand out while providing comfort and a sense of individuality.

From luxurious textures to nature-inspired tones, here are the top trends to make your home a sanctuary of style and personality.

Luxurious textures: deep jewel tones

Deep jewel tones are the hallmark of the next season’s decor, brining a rich and sophisticated colour palette into your home. These bold hues – ruby red, sapphire blue, and emerald green – are not confined to small accents but are embraced in larger, more impactful ways.

Whether it’s a plush sofa, an upholstered chair, or even a statement rug, these vibrant colours add a touch of elegance and warmth to any space. The intensity of jewel tones creates a striking contrast that elevates your decor, making it both inviting and opulent.

Natural materials: wood beyond the basics

Wood is making a solid statement in Fall 2024 decor with its timeless appeal. This season focuses on high-quality, beautifully crafted wooden pieces that add warmth and a sense of wellbeing to your home.

Whether a handcrafted dining table that becomes the heart of your home or a sleek wooden side table, these elements bring enduring elegance and character to your space. Far from being mundane, these wooden pieces are designed to stand out, offering both style and durability.

They’re not just furniture but investments in your home’s aesthetic and comfort.

Warm embrace: earthy tones

Earthy tones are taking centre stage this season, bringing the warmth and tranquillity of nature into your home. Inspired by the rich palette of the outdoors, shades like deep terracotta, rich browns, muted greens and warm ochres create a cozy, grounding atmosphere perfect for the fall season.

Imagine a living room bathed in a soft clay tone, enhanced by a warm nude velvet bench and a deep red marble coffee table – together, they craft a serene and sophisticated space.

Sculptural pieces: art meets functionality

Sculptural furniture and decor are all about bold, artistic shapes that double as functional pieces. This trend brings in items like totem sculptures and furniture with striking, unconventional forms, turning everyday objects into statement pieces that define the room’s character.

These sculptural elements add a layer of sophistication and intrigue to your space, blending art with utility. Whether it’s a bold dining table with sweeping curves or a dramatic lamp, these pieces transform your home into a gallery of modern design.

Made for you: personalised & unique pieces

Personalisation is mandatory this fall, with a strong trend toward unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your style. Whether it’s an antique mirror, a handwoven rug, or a bespoke piece of art, incorporating these items into your decor adds a layer of personal storytelling to your home.

Custom-built furniture tailored to your space is the perfect way to embrace this trend. A bespoke piece doesn’t just fit perfectly. It also is a testament to your taste, making your home truly yours. These personalised touches create a space as unique as you are, filled with items that carry meaning and tell your story.

Textured designs

Textured rugs add depth and visual interest to any interior space. The interplay of materials, shapes, and colours creates a visually dynamic surface and a tactile experience that enhances comfort.

Geometric shapes and varied pile heights, such as high-low designs, bring a sculptural quality to the rug, while cut and loop pile combinations add intricate patterns and subtle dimensions. Embossed or carved patterns elevate the aesthetic appeal by giving the rug a captivating three-dimensional effect.

These elements work together to create a harmonious blend of style and warmth, making textured rugs perfect for creating cosy, inviting spaces rich in character and design.

HOUSE OF HOMMÉS is the home of three bold and unique design brands that share the same vision – to deliver essential designer furniture, bold decor objects, luxe pet accessories, and stylish rugs for ultra-modern interiors, paying particular attention to how they fit in the same space. Shop at hommes.studio


Latest posts