Turning deliveries green 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Image: Darcica team reveals new 18T electric truck for Oxfordshire – left to right – Tim O’Gara, Rhys Davidge and Anthony Tattersall

Oxfordshire business championing zero-emissions pallet deliveries 

Oxfordshire-based Darcica Logistics, a member of Palletways UK’s express palletised freight network, continues to expand its promise of zero-emission pallet deliveries and collections around Oxfordshire, having integrated the new DAF XB 18 tonne electric truck into its operations.  

Designed and produced by Leyland Trucks, the zero-emission truck with a 16-pallet body size, has a driving range of up to 300km (186 miles) and will be used by Darcica for zero-emission pallet deliveries, supporting Darcica’s net zero journey and Oxford’s Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ).  

Darcica, a family-run and owned business, is committed to reducing emissions, waste, water and energy. It has already replaced its diesel vans with electric vans introduced electric forklift trucks in its depots and added a fully electric 3.5-tonne truck primarily for its Oxford city centre deliveries.  

Darcica owner, Anthony Tattersall comments: “We’re excited to add the new DAF XB truck to our fleet, it’s fully branded and even has a Darcica registration number EV25 DAR which will be easy to spot around Oxfordshire! We estimate the truck will save 10 tonnes CO2 a year and expands our service to urban and regional customers with sustainable deliveries.”  

Darcica is one of over 120 independent transport providers that are part of the Palletways UK network. They benefit from shared expertise and resources from within the group to deliver consignments of palletised freight to market faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. The Palletways Group, renowned for its industry-leading IT developments and operational systems, comprises 450+ depots and 20 hub operations, through which it provides collection and distribution services across 24 European countries, including the UK.  

Find out more – Darcica Logistics

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Mucky Weekender festival’s bassiest bash yet! 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

DJ Yoda, Fabio + Grooverider, Jaguar Skills, Dave Rodigan & more will star at magical Mucky Weekender in Micheldever, 11th-13th September 

Mucky Weekender is returning to Micheldever & this year it’s bigger, bolder, and bassier than ever! 

This year’s festival, headlined by our cover stars Fabio + Grooverider, launches with a massive Thursday night opening party, and trust us, you’re going to want to get there early. What started in 2019 as a homegrown dream by Dub Pistols frontman and all-around legend Barry Ashworth, has grown into one of the UK’s most beloved boutique festivals; intimate, immersive, and utterly infectious. 

Set in the lush, 28-acre wonderland of Vicarage Farm, our fave Mucky Weekender is back for its fourth year at its spiritual home. With a 5,000-capacity crowd, six creatively themed stages, and a “no sponsors, no suits” vibe, it’s as grassroots as festivals come, made by music lovers, for music lovers. 

2025’s festivities get under way with a Thursday night blow-out that could pass as a full festival in its own right. Headlining the opening bash is none other than David Rodigan, the iconic reggae and dancehall DJ known for crowd-hyping mic skills and legendary dubplates. Phil Hartnoll of Orbital will also be spinning euphoric electronic beats, as well as the genre-hopping wizardry of DJ Yoda. 

Expect a dubwise masterclass from the charismatic Gardna, pure fire from rising soul powerhouse Eva Lazarus, and a set from the genre-blending innovator Don Letts, who helped birth the punk-reggae crossover. Add to that Jaguar Skills with his cut-and-paste genius, and The Allergies DJ serving up fat slices of funk and soul, and you’ve got one hell of a curtain-raiser. 

But Mucky’s not just about bangers and basslines. It’s about community, creativity, and cutting loose with people who love music as much as you do. Whether go come solo or in a crew, this is the kind of festival where you’ll leave with new mates. Think of it as a boutique rave-family reunion — minus the weird uncle. 

Festival-goers will once again get the chance to dress to impress with 2025’s fancy dress theme: Dead Famous. Whether you’re resurrecting Bowie, Prince, or a disco-diva version of Shakespeare, it’s your time to bring a legend to life. Dress up and you could bag a coveted Golden Ticket to the Dead Famous After Party hosted by Barry Ashworth and the Dub Pistols. 

Mucky Weekender also wears its heart on its sleeve, working closely with Tonic Music for Mental Health to support positive mental health in the music scene. From wellbeing spaces to a line-up packed with returning artists who just can’t get enough of the Mucky magic, it’s a festival with a conscience — and  
a killer soundtrack. 

So if you’re after an unforgettable weekend of genre-spanning beats, creative freedom, and good vibes only, book your tickets now! 

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Aces of bass Fabio + Grooverider

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Liz Nicholls chats to the godfathers of drum n bass Fabio + Grooverider who headline Stowaway Festival, 15th to 17th August & star at Mucky Weekender in Hampshire, 11th to 13th September

Q. Hello! What should I call you? “Fab & Groove is fine that’s what we call each other!”

Q. What’s your first memory of music? “F: “Well, I would have been just walking, so two or three, a toddler… My parents and their friends were having a party and somehow I’d got out of my bed all the way downstairs to join them. Everyone was dancing, to classic reggae on the stereo (Ken Boothe, Max Romeo, Bob Marley etc). I started doing a little dance and they all stopped; they were looking at me dancing, laughing and clapping! It’s one of my first memories of getting attention…. and I loved it! My mum was really pi$$ed off how I’d managed to get down there but still…”

Q. Can we talk about the heady days of the 1990s and the music scene? No internet! No phones! No sub genres, just a big melting pot…

“F: Yeah… and the 1980s, too, that came before. It really was different time. There was Thatcher in power, a lot of punk, a lot of protest. London was… more of a wasteland, more lawless. Big bits of London had empty spaces, warehouses, where there’s all sorts of office blocks and s*** now. It was all about areas too – if I went up the road to Streatham that was a big deal! You were supposed to stay in your own ends. The sound systems were mad. And gatherings were all sorted on the phone!” 

“GR: No one cared about labels or music genres, you just felt something new was on the way… The 1990s were just a continuation of this! And the birth of clubs. Heaven was the first superclub, really, first one we went to. About 1,000 people in a night, underground, the sound systems! What you have to remember is that, in the early days of electronic music, there was a backlash, for sure. There was fear, genuine worry that the soul would be lost from music. It was considered ‘robot music’! You get the same fears now with AI; that technology is doing the job of someone creative. And we do have some robot music today, to some extent, haha!”

Q. I’ve read that you saw Paul Oakenfold DJing at Spectrum and it changed your world…

“Well, it’s worth saying that there was quite a story of us even getting into Spectrum! The doormen were like ‘nah’. We just kind of stood outside for hours hoping somebody would notice us and say ‘oh we know them – they can come in with us’ cos we didn’t really have the money. But that didn’t happen unfortunately. In the end I think the door staff took pity on us and let us in for the last half hour.”

“G: I remember the lasers! The lights and the volume – and that smell! It was like a rubbery smell which we found out later was amyl nitrate, poppers. It completely blew our minds. You had DJs before but not like like he was. He was the one DJing in front of them all, performing and everyone was looking at him. I’d never seen people going mental to the music like that. We were used to club where people weren’t even that drunk, and this was another level.”

Q. Take us back to that Sliding Doors moment, the afters for Danny Rampling’s Shoom at Mendoza’s It was 2am and you were about to zip off home as Groove had work and you thought no one was coming…

“G: Yeah I kept falling asleep at work, haha – in fact they had to get rid of me in the end. We wanted to leave but we stayed on… and the rest is history!”  

Q. Can we take a moment to honour your friendship?! I feel that marriages are celebrated, anniversary parties & whatnot, but long friendships need to be celebrated too! Almost 34 years! Do you ever argue?

“Nah never. We’re from the same place, we’ve got similar world views. When we first started out we decided to put together a set of unwritten rules that we’d never break – sort of moral guidelines. So we have no reason to argue. To be honest it’s only when people have massively different views that you get trouble. We’re both from similar backgrounds, we respect each other and enjoy what we do! What would we argue about?! ”

Q. You’re at Mucky & Stowaway aren’t you? What’s your best festival memory, either as a punter or as a DJ?

“F: We’ve played so many festivals over the years that it’s sometimes hard to remember. To be honest we don’t go to many as a punter to be honest! I’ve been invited to a kind of classic soul/R&B event in a few weeks’ time – I really love that music. Knowing me I will most likely bail on the day though!”

Q. .Your shows with the Outlook Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall have been a hit! Did the young yous think this would happen?

“F&G: No. I never thought we’d even be allowed in, let alone to perform there! People like us, they weren’t ever feel they could be welcome there. That’s not a race thing, it’s more of a rich/ poor thing. But here we are, and it’s been incredible

Q. If you could make one wish for music, what would it be?

“I’d probably get the Nineties back, so young people today could experience a bit of it… But… I don’t want to sound like the old man in the room who’s down on everything new! After all, it was the same for us – our parents hated punk. Now sometimes I listen to the odd bit of new music and I think ‘arghhh it’s just a noise!’, haha! But that’s how electronic music and punk music sounded to our old mans! But anyway, I’ll say it: I feel like some of the fun has gone out of music. The kids now, it’s not as free as it used to be. But the good news is, raving is happening, somewhere, every weekend! Four or five years ago, we thought clubbing might not come back. It was social distancing, you can’t have people all together. I’m so pleased it’s recovered. Every weekend there’s a rave somewhere, and if you happen to be at that rave, it might change your life…”

Fabio & Grooverider and The Outlook Orchestra will headline Stowaway festival near Stowe on 15th August, which will also star the Wailers, a Jungle DJ set & more; visit stowawayfestival.co.uk

They will also join Groove Armada, David Rodigan, Leftfield, Norman Jay MBE, Dub Pistols & many more at Mucky Weekender in Micheldever in September: Visit mucky-weekender.co.uk

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Summer fun at The Fishes in Oxford

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

There’s so much to enjoy at The Fishes Oxford including a garden party this weekend (21st June) & a fresh new menu thanks to chef & author Gemma Ogston, perfect for al fresco fun!

Summertiiiime, and the living is… well it’s been far from easy lately! What with exam stress (dear. God.), mounting bills, health hiccups & other mojo-draining mishaps June has taken its toll. (Just me?! Sorry – whinge over!)

I can heartily recommend a visit – any time of day or night – to The Fishes Oxford for a vibe top-up. If you love an al fresco pit stop (and who doesn’t?!), you must know The Fishes, part of the Peach Pubs group. Situated in the impossibly pretty village of North Hinksey, OX2 0NA.

Just as summer started to peek out, I happily checked in to enjoy a meal in the huge pub garden. A whimsical wonderland of weeping willows, with a huge fairylit tipi to boot. I was lured in (well, I’m a regular!) by the rainbow lasagne, part of the fresh new menu from Brighton-based Gemma Ogston, the founder of Gem’s Wholesome Kitchen.

About Gemma Ogston

Gemma, who is a chef, recipe developer, and writer, is an ambassador for Fareshare UK and Young Minds UK, as well as the author of two Amazon bestsellers: The Self-Care Cookbook (2019) and The Healing Cookbook (2023). She also has a third book in in the works. Her rainbow lasagne is indeed a layered beauty which packs a great pesto punch, proves that going meat-free need not leave you feeling deprived.

The Fishes Oxford chef & author Gemma Ogston

But the ever-changing menu is a treat for all summer-lovers, making the most of the abundant produce right here on our doorstep – my French foodie pal & I also loved the asparagus with Hollandaise & poached egg, and the Fishes Fish Bowl – a beautiful bowl of monkfish, prawns, mussels, moules & more, with fries! Special mention must go to the puds, too! I am still aching to go back for another golden delicious tarte tatin oozing with a generous globe of vanilla ice cream.

The Fishes’ Pub Club

If all this sounds a bit belt-busting and/ or wallet-busting, fret not! From Monday to Wednesday, The Fishes’ Pub Club offers a brilliant excuse to dine out midweek. For just £25, you can tuck into two hearty main courses! From slow-cooked beef and ale pie to a zingy Tom Yum rice noodle salad. Or enjoy a classic steak burger with all the trimmings.

Fizz Friday adds some sparkle to the end of the week. Between 3pm & 7pm, when you buy one bottle of fizz (Prosecco, Crémant, or even Piper-Heidsieck), you’ll get the second bottle on the house. Perfect for easing into the weekend, especially when paired with the kitchen’s tempting fish specials.
The super-friendly Fishes team also serve breakfast 9.30-11am on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays. And this is top-notch fare, from buttermilk pancakes with crispy bacon and maple syrup to a full English or eggs Benedict, The Fishes delivers both flavour and quality with flair. The pub has unusually extensive and clear gluten- and dairy-free menus. Younger diners are also treated with the same respect as adults.

The Fishes Oxford

There are some sizzling summer events, too, including:

• Saturday, 21st June: The Summer Garden Party, 1-6pm. Enjoy BBQ delights, oysters, live music, and a choice of refreshing tipples including Pimm’s, Lucky Saint and Piper-Heidsieck.
• Sunday, 13th July: Enjoy the Wimbledon Final in the garden. With strawberries, Pimm’s buckets, tennis on the lawn, and the final live on the big screen.
• Saturday, 30th August: Tuck into a Brazilian Barbecue with sous chef Ene. They will serve bold flavours and vibrant dishes. Walk-ins welcome and bookings recommended.

We love our hospitality heroes for catering to our every whim & mealtime. See you there!

www.fishesoxford.co.uk

Find out what else is on near you on our Activities & Events in Oxfordshire page.

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Remember Monday Q&A ahead of Blenheim

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Not long to go until and another star-spangled Nocturne Live against the stunning backdrop of Blenheim Palace! Remember Monday share their thoughts ahead of supporting The Corrs and Natalie Imbruglia on 21st June

This suitably majestic setting will host a royal flush of musicians from Thursday 19th to Sunday 22nd of June. The Verve’s frontman Richard Ashcroft as the first act of the Nocturne concert series on Thursday 19th June, followed by headliner Gary Barlow on Friday 20th as part of his UK and Ireland Songbook tour.

Saturday night will see one of Ireland’s most succesful bands The Corrs make their return to Nocturne alongside support act Natalie Imbruglia.

Legendary Nile Rogers & Chic will headline on Sunday night. With countless hits such as Le Freak, Good Times and Everybody Dance this is not one to miss. 

Remember Monday are supporting The Corrs and Natalie Imbruglia at the Nocturne Live at Blenheim Palace concert series on Saturday, 21st June. Here’s a Q&A with the Eurovision stars…

Congratulations on representing the UK at Eurovision this year. How has life changed since the news was announced?

“It’s been mental, every single day has taken us by surprise! Every day is a new day of amazing things and we’re so grateful that the day we received that phone call happened! We had a little bucket list that we’ve had for years and ever since we got Eurovision, and especially since Eurovision was announced we’ve been ticking it off, and upgrading the bucket lists.”

How does it feel to go from Eurovision to one of the UK’s most iconic concert settings sharing the bill with The Corrs and Natalie Imbruglia?

“To perform at Blenheim Palace is huge. We’ve grown up listening to The Corrs, we’re huge fans of them and Natalie Imbruglia, it’s wild. We can’t believe we’re on the same line-up as these incredible artists at such an incredible venue it all feels very surreal.”

Will your Eurovision experience influence how you approach live shows now?

“I think the Eurovision experience will definitely kind of set the bar for us now and we’re only aiming for that or higher. You know we want to take that level of performance into every single thing that we do, you know we’ve already making plans for loads of different festival appearances over the summer and even our own live tour, we’ve set the bar there and we just want to keep getting bigger and better.”

What’s next for you?

“We are going on a headline tour in October, we literally cannot wait. It’s our second headline tour and the last time it was just the most fun we’ve ever had, and this next tour is a huge step up. We’re playing some really amazing, huge venues and way more dates around the UK so we honestly can’t wait to do that. There might be an album in the works we couldn’t possibly give away all our secrets but definitely some new music is coming for sure, and we can’t wait for you to hear it.”

Find out more – https://nocturnelive.com/

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Rock Bottom Festival, Marlow, June 21st 2025

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Rock Bottom is the family-friendly music festival held in every June at Marlow Bottom Playing Fields 

Rock Bottom is a popular family-friendly music festival held every June at the beautiful Marlow Bottom Playing Fields. This annual event offers live music, fun activities, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and music lovers in the Marlow area.

Organised by the Marlow Bottom Playing Fields Management Committee, a dedicated group of volunteers, the festival is part of a series of community events that also includes the well-loved Marlow Bottom fireworks display. The committee is a registered charity, with 100% of the profits from Rock Bottom and other events reinvested into the ongoing maintenance and improvement of Marlow Bottom Playing Fields.

Marlow Bottom Playing Fields serves as a vital recreational space for the local community, hosting sports, family activities, and social events throughout the year. By attending Rock Bottom, you support the upkeep of this cherished community resource.

For tickets and more details please visit www.marlowrockbottom.com 

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The enduring charm of Midsomer Murders 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Bucks tour guide Tony Long ponders the enduring appeal of Midsomer Murders 28 years later… 

Midsomer Murders, the long-running ITV drama series, has become a phenomenon. It’s still going strong after 28 years, with 132 episodes – more than Morse, Lewis and Endeavour put together – seen by a billion people in 200 countries worldwide. 

Where is Midsomer?

But where is this fictional county of Midsomer? Overwhelmingly it is in Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. Beaconsfield, Amersham, Chesham, Marlow, Thame and Henley have all been used frequently. Not to mention the dozens of picturesque villages. Including The Lee (where the opening scene in the very first episode was filmed), Long Crendon, Little Missenden, Haddenham, Turville, Cuddington – the list goes on and on. 

These days, screen tourism is remarkably popular. Thame Midsomer Tours have been offering Midsomer walking tours. Visiting no fewer than 23 filming locations in Thame’s town centre. The group also hosts coach parties touring many of the nearby villages used in the series. Visitors come from all over the world to see the many locations. From Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, and most of Europe. Indeed, part of the 100th episode was filmed in Copenhagen, partly because the show is so popular in Denmark and many other parts of the continent. 

The Town Hall, Thame, Oxfordshire, England, UK

Why is Midsomer Murders still so popular?

But why has Midsomer Murders lasted so long and remained so popular? In 2022 ITV produced a documentary celebrating the first 25 years of the show and many of the stars pondered this question. Including John Nettles, Jane Wymark, Neil Dudgeon and Jason Hughes, to mention just a few. The answer seemed to revolve around the bizarre ways in which people are murdered and the fact that the show never takes itself too seriously. As well as, of course, the beautiful and quintessentially English villages used as the backdrop. 

The Kings Arms Hotel in Old Amersham which has featured in Midsomer Murders

Midsomer Murders is based on the Inspector Barnaby series of novels by Caroline Graham. The first of these – The Killings at Badger’s Drift – was adapted as the inaugural episode to be filmed in 1997. It was a huge success, the most popular crime drama of that year. But curiously, Caroline Graham never used the name Midsomer in any of her books. Apparently, Anthony Horowitz, the scriptwriter for that first episode, was looking at a map of Somerset and noticed the small town of Midsomer Norton. The alliteration of Midsomer and murders was impossible to resist, and Midsomer Murders was born. 

Rumour has it filming for series 25 will begin soon. So, with more than 400 murders so far, we can be sure more dastardly ways of killing people will be dreamed up. The show’s millions of fans worldwide will again be enthralled as John Barnaby solves yet more cases in the idyllic setting of Midsomer County. 

Book a Midsomer Murders tour

For more info and to book a walking tour of Thame, visit thamemidsomertours.co.uk 

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Astrology & Tarot for June

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

What’s in store for you this month? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers her new monthly guides for all signs… 

Aries (21 March–20 April)

Choose your battles carefully on the 15th. Start new health habits from the 17th. Finances begin to look up after Venus enters Taurus on the 6th, but avoid blowing it all too soon—set a smart budget. From the 9th, Mercury and Jupiter highlight your home zone, boosting chances for buying, selling, renovating, or hosting. Jupiter here for a year means property luck is on your side. The Full Moon on the 11th encourages long-distance travel plans. Around the 15th, watch boundaries as Jupiter’s angles to Saturn and Neptune test your resolve. Mars enters Virgo on the 17th, powering your fitness goals through August. From the 20th, family matters take focus. The 24th is a stellar day to move or list a property; the New Moon on the 25th backs this up. Mercury brings a playful note on the 26th so celebrate!

Tarot Insight: Page of Pentacles
This is a time of new beginnings, especially around work, study, or personal growth. You’re being encouraged to stay grounded and open to learning. A small step taken now could lead to something long-lasting and worthwhile.

Taurus (21 April–20 May)

Set goals early in the month. Sort your finances on the 11th. With Venus in your sign from the 6th, your charm’s magnetic so use it! Mercury and Jupiter stir up wanderlust on the 8th and 9th, so expect travel urges and spontaneous trips. The Full Moon on the 11th shines a light on money; time to organise it. Love heats up when Mars enters your romance zone on the 17th so be bold! Your calendar fills quickly after the 20th, so pace yourself. Take advantage of lucky travel vibes on the 24th and again on the New Moon of the 25th. Mercury brings lively energy to your home from the 26th, so think about BBQs and summer gatherings.

Tarot Insight: Nine of Cups
There’s a sense of emotional satisfaction surrounding you this month. A wish may be fulfilled, or you may simply feel more at peace with where you are. Savour these moments, they’re well deserved.

Gemini (21 May–20 June)

Money improves on the 8th. Book a trip around the 26th. It’s your season, so expect plenty of attention. Keep love life private when Venus moves into your hidden zone on the 6th. Financially, things pick up when Mercury and Jupiter light up your income sector on the 8th and 9th. A new income stream or raise could be on the way. The Full Moon on the 11th brings closure in a relationship. From the 15th, steer clear of risky spending as Jupiter clashes with Saturn and Neptune. Tackle home tasks after Mars enters Virgo on the 17th. The Sun entering your money house on the 20th fuels ambition – hustle pays off. The 24th and 25th are ideal for wealth-building moves. Mercury in Leo on the 26th sparks wanderlust.

Tarot Insight: Wheel of Fortune
Life is shifting gears. Changes, both unexpected and fortuitous, may appear to steer you in a new direction. Trust the cycles, what’s leaving is making space for something more aligned.

Cancer (21 June–22 July)

Big luck arrives on the 9th. Reinvent yourself on the 25th. Venus keeps things light and social, but there’s also time for reflection this month. Mercury enters your sign on the 8th, followed by Jupiter on the 9th, kicking off a year of expansion. Expect fresh opportunities and more good luck than usual. The Full Moon on the 11th wraps up a work chapter. A wobble around the 15th could bring doubt, but things shift once the Sun moves into Cancer on the 20th. Mars in Virgo from the 17th helps with clarity. The 24th is your lucky day so wish big! Update your look on the 25th under a sparkling New Moon. Mercury sharpens focus on your finances from the 26th.

Tarot Insight: The Chariot
You’re being called to step into your power with determination and focus. Challenges can be overcome now with clarity and commitment. Your inner strength will lead the way.

Leo (23 July–22 August)

Romance peaks on the 11th. Spiritual growth deepens on the 24th. Mars gives you extra firepower early in the month, fuelling fun and social events. Venus in your career zone draws the right kind of attention so use your charm. From the 8th, Mercury, and then Jupiter, move into your spiritual zone so it is time to look inward. The Full Moon on the 11th highlights a romantic development. Avoid travel around the 15th as planetary tensions could create snags. Mars shifts to your money zone on the 17th when hard work pays off. The Sun in Cancer from the 20th supports rest and inner peace. A major insight or turning point comes on the 24th. The 25th is perfect for retreating and recharging. Speak your truth when Mercury enters Leo on the 26th.

Tarot Insight: Queen of Cups
A time to listen to your intuition and lead from the heart. Compassion, creativity, and emotional depth are your strengths now. Nurture yourself as much as you nurture others.

Virgo (23 August–22 September)

Career and social boosts are on offer this month. Venus in your travel sector from the 6th could open the door to a much-needed getaway. Mercury and Jupiter activate your friendship zone from the 8th and 9th your social life grows. Tidy up the house before the Full Moon on the 11th. Avoid lending money mid-months Jupiter’s tense angles suggest caution. Mars powers into Virgo on the 17th, boosting drive and stamina. Summer nights get lively once the Sun enters your networking zone on the 20th. Host an event or join one on the 24th, it could be a highlight. A new ally may enter your circle on the 25th. Secrets could surface on the 26th. on the 29th when Mercury opposes Pluto.

Tarot Insight: Ace of Cups
New emotional beginnings are possible whether in love, friendships, or through creative self-expression. Let your heart open gently. This could be the start of something truly meaningful.

Libra (23 September–22 October)

Early June is ideal for spontaneous trips a with the Sun in your wanderlust sector. Venus brings financial support from the 6th, making adventures more affordable. Mercury and Jupiter enter your career zone on the 8th and 9th, kicking off a year of professional growth. A sibling could share big news under the Full Moon on the 11th. Relationships may get tricky around the 15th, your calm nature helps. Mars enters your private sector on the 17th so keep plans quiet for now. From the 20th, the spotlight’s on your leadership skills. Shine bright on the 24th, recognition is due. The 25th’s New Moon is great for aiming higher in your career. Mercury adds sparkle to your social life from the 26th.

Tarot Insight: Nine of Pentacles
Your efforts are bearing fruit. Independence, self-worth, and a sense of achievement come into focus. Take time to appreciate all you’ve built and the beauty that surrounds you.

Scorpio (October 23–November 22)

Financial gains come your way this month, a reward for your hard work. Venus in the area of your relationships on the 6th sets the stage for summer romance, possibly far from home. Mercury and Jupiter’s moves early in the month invite travel and exciting new experiences. The Full Moon on the 11th signals a financial closure, perhaps a debt paid or a bill settled, bringing relief. Travel cautiously the week of the 15th as tricky planetary aspects could disrupt plans.

Mars energises your social life from the 17th, keeping you busy and out late. The Sun’s entry into your travel sector on the 20th, plus its conjunction with Jupiter on the 24th, marks a lucky time to book a trip or embrace new horizons. The New Moon on the 25th reinforces this – pack your passport! Mercury’s shift into Leo on the 26th might turn your focus towards career, but your adventures remain a priority.

Tarot Insight: Ace of Swords
Clarity is cutting through confusion. This is a moment of truth, whether it’s a conversation, a realisation, or a decision. Speak honestly and trust your insight.

Sagittarius (November 23–December 21)

June spotlights relationships with the Sun, Mercury, and Jupiter energising your partnership sector early on. Venus entering your work zone on the 6th boosts teamwork and cooperation. Mercury and Jupiter’s moves into Cancer the week of the 8th deepen emotional bonds and intimacy, with plenty of time ahead for growth. The Full Moon on the 11th is ideal for setting boundaries. Be cautious with spending and investments the week of the 15th, as Jupiter’s tough angles warn against impulsiveness. Mars stokes your professional drive from the 17th – focus here and you could earn a promotion. Financial luck shines on the 24th with a possible windfall, followed by the New Moon on the 25th bringing fresh money opportunities. By the 26th, Mercury encourages you to take on new learning or travel plans.

Tarot Insight: The Lovers
Themes of union, choice, and alignment come to the surface. Whether in relationships or values, you’re being asked to honour what feels truly right for you. Follow what resonates with your heart.

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

June encourages balance between work and rest. Venus in your career zone on the 6th shines a flattering light on your ambitions. Mercury and Jupiter enter your friendship sector early in the month, expanding your network and bringing support. The Full Moon on the 11th highlights your need to rest so don’t overwork. Watch your health and finances the week of the 15th, when challenging aspects ask for discipline. Mars charges your home and family life from the 17th, driving you to change up your space or care for loved ones. The Sun’s move into Cancer on the 20th brings a focus on self-care. The 24th’s Sun Jupiter conjunction sparks celebration, rewarding your efforts. The New Moon on the 25th is perfect for setting fresh intentions. Mercury’s move into Leo on the 26th brings clarity to communication.

Tarot Insight: Death
Transformation is unfolding. Something may be ending, but it’s making way for deep renewal. Letting go can be difficult, but trust that this clearing is necessary for growth.

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

Venus in your social sector from the 6th invites enjoyable connections and perhaps new romance. Mercury and Jupiter’s entry into your career sector around the 8th opens doors for professional growth over the year ahead. The Full Moon on the 11th encourages you to speak your truth and seek clarity in work matters. Be mindful of financial risks the week of the 15th with Jupiter’s tense angles. Mars energises your communication zone from the 17th, perfect for networking or finishing projects. The Sun’s journey into Cancer on the 20th boosts your creativity. The 24th brings an opportunity to advance professionally. The New Moon on the 25th introduces new alliances or friendships. Mercury’s move into Leo on the 26th encourages you to express your unique voice.

Tarot Insight: Page of Cups
A fresh emotional energy is arriving – curious, creative, and heartfelt. You may receive a message of affection or find inspiration in unexpected places. Stay open to wonder.

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Venus in your career zone from the 6th blesses you with charm and success at work. Mercury and Jupiter entering your home sector early in June suggest a year of growth in your domestic life, whether renovating, moving, or expanding family. The Full Moon on the 11th supports closure on emotional or family matters. The week of the 15th requires caution around finances and self-doubt, as tricky planetary aspects might shake your confidence. Mars’s move into Virgo on the 17th fuels your daily routines and health goals. The Sun’s entry into Cancer on the 20th brings focus on communication. The 24th is a day to celebrate personal breakthroughs. The New Moon on the 25th encourages fresh starts in your daily habits or health. Mercury’s shift into Leo on the 26th sparks creativity and bold communication.

Tarot Insight: Knight of Pentacles
Steady progress is your ally now. Commitment and consistency will help you build something lasting. Take things one step at a time – there’s no rush, only rhythm.

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Eclectic, eccentric Elizabeth Jennings jam sessions  

Liz Nicholls

Posted on

Liz Nicholls

During spring & summer you can join this friendly group of music-lovers on the banks of the Oxford canal for a wholesome Sunday session

Looking for a wonderful soundtrack on a Lazy Sunday afternoon? Head along to the Elizabeth Jennings Jam session in north Oxford, 2-4pm on Sundays throughout summer. 

Enjoy music of the last six decades, from folk, country, blues, ragtime, early European and Latin American music. As Boima Rogers tells us, the genres and ambience can sometimes be a far cry from the tranquil Oxford city canal atmosphere, “notably bawdy English ballads going back a few centuries and haunting blues renditions harking back to the Mississippi delta at the beginning of the 20th century.  

“An eclectic group combining professional and amateur musicians play a variety of contemporary and intriguing traditional musical instruments, such as Bowed Psaltery, accordions, musical saws, lutes, keyboards, string and percussion.” 

While the Sunday afternoon sessions have yet to be “discovered” or placed on the regular tourist To-Do lists, visitors looking for a part of Oxford away from the maddening crowds of regular tours are enthusiastically welcomed and invited to join in; a hidden gem and refreshing experience. 

The event is a child of Covid19 when the lead musician, Frank Underwood decided to go on the green looking for somewhere safe to play. Other musicians followed, leading to regular jam sessions and appreciative audiences – in keeping with the advice to avoid close contacts, spread out on the green. Frank, a classically trained musician, sings and plays lute, guitar, harmonica, piano and more. Originally from Banbury, brought up in Oxford, he has been making music for over half a century. He embodies that unique characteristic of Oxford life, namely ordinary people who turn out to have led extraordinary and well- known lives. The unassuming Frank led a band, Windsong, that featured Annie Lennox prior to her role in Eurythmics. He has also worked with and/or had links with Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and James Blunt. He was commissioned to write and perform music to honour Bishop Desmond Tutu of 

South Africa, featuring “Child of Soweto”. A Jane Austen buff, he has also established a group- Austentation- devoted to the author. He has released three CDs, featuring medieval material, folk and blues. Like his diverse musical genres, his musical journey started from busking in Greenpark tube station, London, to performances all over the UK and worldwide, including stints in France, India, Norway, Italy, Switzerland and America. His focus now is Oxfordshire and nearby counties. 

Angela Mayorga who sings and plays guitar and percussion, also a key member of Austentation, has collaborated with Frank for thirteen years on various musical projects.   

A regular “visitor” is Emma Welsh, Sally’s daughter, based in Brighton who sings and plays the guitar, backing her mother. Emma works in community music to assist mental health, disable and dementia patients and refugees and performs in Rainbow Chorus, an LGTB group.  

The Elizabeth Jennings session is indeed a beautiful quirky part of Oxford but one that gives a lot of fun to session musicians, locals peering from their balconies, in whoever is lucky enough to escape from the hordes of tourists in Oxford city centre. Bystanders have also been known to occasionally introduce 

a tune, a dance or unusual musical instrument. The group welcomes all people to join in and before you know it there is a tambourine or set of bells in your hand and you find yourself singing, humming or tapping your feet, “there is always a song or beat inside of you and you just have to let it out!” 

So, take a picnic and a tune and join the fun on the Green at Elizabeth Jennings Way and look out for notices for performances at NOA in the off- season. There is no charge for the event.

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Bite of Metropolitan Med at Bibi’s 

Liz Nicholls

Posted on

Liz Nicholls

Nestled on Rose Street, next to a Swedish bakery and a stone’s throw from Covent Garden station. Bibi’s is the perfect place to break up the city rush with fresh and flavourful food, says Millie Deere

Open between 10am and 3pm on weekdays only, Bibi’s has become a hotspot café for the local workforce to grab a hearty lunch that doesn’t compromise on the speed of service. Or, for a quieter day, two window seats offer the perfect spot for some midday people-watching before moseying around Covent Garden Market or heading to a matinee in Soho. 

Stepping through the door, customers are greeted by attentive staff and plates of fresh pastries on the counter. There’s banana bread, feta and parsley pastries with honey drizzle and a buffet of colourful, flavour-packed hot foods and salads. 

Bibi’s offers “Turkish heritage and Mediterranean flavours, reimagined for the fast-paced London lifestyle.” The menu is simple: hot lunches, wraps, and salads—no coffee, no crisps. Keep it simple. Do it well. And it works; you can feel the goodness boosting your system. 

The flaky roasted salmon and soft, family-recipe hummus, and rich chickpeas are stand-out, followed by the Cajun chicken and pickled chilis—if you’re not afraid of some serious heat. Salads rotate every couple of days, offering customers a variety of flavours throughout the work week, from apple and celery to peas and sweetcorn, beetroot, and black-eyed beans. 

The interior strikes a balance between stylish and playful. Slate-tiled floors, brass plant pots, and black-blue walls with exposed brickwork radiate industrial chic, while customers sit on hairpin stools, enjoying colourful salad bowls at marble-effect tables. Meanwhile, it’s not just the food that flirts with the senses. Victorian-style portraits cheekily blowing bubble gum opposite a neon “Sex, Salads, and Rock & Roll” sign add a touch of satisfaction to the otherwise polished aesthetic. 

Bibi’s is a top choice from Round & About for a London lunch that offers spice, style, and satisfaction. 

Locations: Soho, Covent Garden, Mayfair, Liverpool Street, Bankside, Fenchurch. 

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