Yattendon Winter Market 23rd&24th November 

Liz Nicholls

Yattendon Winter Market, a celebration of slow craftsmanship, is back on 23rd & 24th November at the village hall, RG18 0UE 

Yattendon is the perfect village for a festive market, being home to the beloved local Christmas tree farm!  

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or a special treat for yourself, The Modern Makers Collective invite you to find a diverse and vibrant selection of handmade treasures to choose from, including jewellery, ceramics, textiles, glass, printmaking, basket weaving, and much more. 

Modern Makers Collective are a group of skilled makers, designers, artists and craftspeople committed to promoting high quality craftsmanship, sustainability and community engagement through the Winter Market and programme of workshops in the local area.  

This year the team are excited to showcase the incredible talents of 24 artists, designers and craftspeople. Among them will be several new faces, bringing a wave of fresh creativity alongside more seasoned Collective members.  

The highlight aims to foster a deeper connection and understanding between makers and visitors, highlighting the time, effort, and skill that go into handmade artworks. The makers pour everything into creating exceptional pieces with care, attention to detail, a respect for materials, and traditional techniques, often fused with modern design. Visitors can meet the makers, learn about their processes and buy one-of-a-kind items that embody the essence of slow craft. 

The picturesque estate village of Yattendon, renowned for being largely owned by Lord and Lady Iliffe, is the perfect setting for the Winter Market, with its award-winning pubs and beautiful scenery, providing visitors with a lovely opportunity to enjoy a day of mindful shopping and delicious food. 

“We’re thrilled to host an event that not only showcases the incredible talent of our Collective, but also encourages mindful shopping,” says co-founder Aimée Alice Payton. “The popularity of our Winter Market reflects a growing appreciation for unique, quality products that tell a story, and reflect a commitment to thoughtful, sustainable purchases over mass-produced items.” 


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Stars’ traditions for Christmas Jumper Day!

Liz Nicholls

Dom Joly, Alison Hammond, Olly Murs & more celebrities are urging us all to swap, buy second-hand or rewear a pre-loved jumper as they launch Save the Children’s annual festive fundraiser on 12th December.

“I’m an ex-goth so I can be quite grumpy around Christmas time,” says Dom Joly, “but some festive traditions have creeped in over the years. It doesn’t feel like Christmas unless I have a tube of my favourite biscuits, chocolate Bath Olivers, which are so rare these days that my wife has to drive halfway across the country to find them. I also take my two black Labradors on a walk around the park on Christmas Day – they both have special Christmas collars that flash and look very festive.

“I’ve been to see the incredible work that Save the Children is doing to support children and families on the ground in Ukraine. In areas of conflict all around the world, the charity is working tirelessly to ensure children still have access to food, education, and a modicum of structure in a world that has often been ripped apart. Christmas Jumper Day is such a simple way of supporting this vital work – I’d urge everyone, even Christmas grumps like me, to get involved if you can.”

Olly Murs said: “Christmas in the Murs household is always a laugh! Every year, I’m in charge of the games, including our tradition of pass the parcel which everybody loves. This year will be Madison’s first Christmas, so I’m really excited for that – it’ll be a special one for the whole family.

“Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is such a fun way to raise money for a brilliant cause. As a new dad, I know how important it is for my daughter to have a safe and happy upbringing, but not every child in the world experiences this. All you need to do is wear a silly second-hand jumper, donate what you can and you’ll be helping to make sure children across the globe get the future they deserve.”


Alison Hammond said: “Normally at Christmas time I’m doing panto, so I only get one day off which is Christmas Day. Last year I went to my sister’s house, where I sat on the sofa and did absolutely nothing while she cooked the most spectacular roast dinner. I know that sounds terrible, but after working the whole festive season, putting my feet up for the day felt very deserved!

“I love how much fun Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is and how easy it is for everyone to get involved! If you’re busy over the Christmas period like me, you can simply head to your local charity shop and pick up a pre-loved knit. Every penny raised helps children here in the UK and all around the world to stay safe, healthy and learning. So what are you waiting for babes?! Sign up now!”

Laura Whitmore said: “Most of us have a festive jumper somewhere in our wardrobe, and if not, why not borrow one from a friend? I’m always letting friends borrow my clothes, and they let me borrow theirs in return.

“I have a lot of things in my wardrobe that are there for life. Although it’s nice to follow trends, I think it’s really important to have those staple pieces that will last a lifetime – mine is definitely my go-to leather jacket. I also get quite nostalgic with clothes: I remember what I wore on my first date with my husband or what I wore when I auditioned for MTV – and my Christmas jumper always reminds me of all the festive fun I’ve had with friends and family over the years! There’s a story in every piece of clothing I own.”

Joe Swash said: “Christmas Day at my house is always chaos but most importantly, it’s full of love, laughter and excitement.

“I’m supporting Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day because, having kids myself, I know how important it is for children to feel safe, protected and supported. Anything we can do to help raise money so children all over the world can experience these basic rights is something I’m all for. You don’t even need a new jumper to get involved – grab any old thing from your cupboard and spruce it up with some tinsel or baubles. Jobs’ a good ‘un!!”

Nadia Sawalha said: “Christmas is an opportunity for us to reflect, think about all we have to be grateful for and how we can give back.

“This year has been tough for many people across the world, so it feels more important than ever to do what we can to spread joy and hope.

“One thing we can all do to help children stay safe, healthy and learning, is get involved in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day. Wearing a jumper and donating a small amount really has the power to transform children’s lives for good.

“So whether you’re at work, in the classroom, on the sofa or down the pub, why don’t you get involved on the 1th December – or whenever suits you best.”

Sophie Morgan said: “Christmas Day has got to be about being comfortable. Wearing something really cosy and warm is key so I’m usually in an extra big jumper and a pair of leggings.

“I’m terrible at throwing things away so I have loads of jumper at home to pick from for Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on 7th December. All you need to do to take part is theow on your favourite jumper and donate £2 to Save the Children.”

For more information and details on how to sign up, visit Christmas Jumper Day 2024 | Save the Children UK


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Panto star Biggins turns Woking on! 

Liz Nicholls

Christopher Biggins, star of New Victoria Theatre’s pantomime Sleeping Beauty, will switch on Woking’s Christmas lights in Jubilee Square on Thursday, 21st November

Woking town centre is set to sparkle as the festive season officially “Biggins” with the much-loved Christmas tree lights switch-on on 21st November.  

Special guest Christopher Biggins, star of New Victoria Theatre’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, has the honour of lighting up the borough’s biggest Christmas tree.  Promising an evening filled with cheer and holiday magic, the festivities begin at 4.45pm, with the grand switch-on at 6pm.  

Visitors can look forward to carol singing, live music, dance performances, and a traditional Christmas market offering seasonal gifts and festive refreshments. 

This year’s Christmas tree has been generously donated by Woking Asian Business Forum, a gesture that unites communities and brings joy to all. 

Cllr Ann-Marie Barker, Leader of Woking Borough Council, said: “Our Christmas lights switch-on brings together people of all ages to celebrate the joy of the season. I would like to thank Woking Asian Business Forum for their generous contribution. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Jubilee Square to mark the start of this festive time.” 

Shahid Azeem, Chair of Woking Asian Business Forum, added: “Christmas is about community, family, celebration and togetherness. We’re proud to support the local community by donating this year’s Christmas tree. It’s a pleasure to contribute to a celebration that brings our communities together and spreads festive cheer.” 

Sam Miller, Communications Manager at the New Victoria Theatre, added: “We are absolutely thrilled that the one-and-only Christopher Biggins, the star of our dazzling pantomime Sleeping Beauty, will have the honour of lighting up Woking’s Christmas tree this year. It’s the perfect way to kick off the festive season, bringing the magic of Christmas and panto together in one unforgettable moment!” 

Visitors can enjoy the Christmas market, which will remain in town throughout the festive period, exploring a wide range of seasonal gifts, warming treats, and delicious refreshments.  

Sleeping Beauty, starring Christopher Biggins, Faye Tozer, Richard Cadell, and Sooty, plays at New Victoria Theatre Woking, from Fri 6 Dec 2024 to Sun 5 Jan 2025. 

Tickets are available here: Sleeping Beauty Tickets | New Victoria Theatre, Woking in Woking | ATG Tickets 

Watch this space for our pantomimes special in December! 


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Beloved Bucks bar owner’s emotional farewell

Liz Nicholls

Praise, and funds, are flooding in for 38-year-old entrepreneur and mum of two Samantha Fraser, as The Library Bar in Aylesbury closes its doors so that she can spend precious time with her family

Sam opened The Library Bar, the first-of-its-kind LGBTQIA+ venue in Bucks in May last year.

The bar quickly became a cherished spaces for locals to gather, enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and tapas and celebrate individuality and inclusivity.

However, due to a prolonged and challenging battle with terminal cancer, Sam has made the heart-breaking decision to close the doors of her beloved business.

“It’s been a hell of a ride,” says Sam, “but we called last orders for good on Friday, 1st November: our Halloween party. This place has been more than just a bar. It’s been our home, our hideout, our little slice of heaven. We’ve laughed, cried, and probably puked here.

“To everyone who’s been part of this mad journey – you’re all amazing. You’ve made this place what it is.

“Anyone who’s spoken to me knows the love I have for this place, how much I wanted it, how much I’d dreamt of it, and how much I wanted to be the place everyone felt comfort, felt security, and where they wanted to go time and time again. I think I achieved that, for the time it was there anyway.”

Sam’s journey to open the bar is one of hard work and determination. After securing a business loan, she was able to bring her childhood dream to life, and her establishment quickly became a vibrant hub for all, warmly embraced by the local LGBTQIA+ community. The bar hosted weekly events, including open mic nights, quizzes, and live music performances, along with a popular monthly drag show presented by the House of Suxwell, an Aylesbury-based drag family. Sam also partnered closely with local Pride organisation to launch Aylesbury’s very first Pride event earlier this year, even hosting the official after-party at The Library Bar.

Tragically, just three weeks after the bar’s opening, Sam was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, a rare cancer affecting bones and soft tissue. The initial tumour, located near her collarbone, was successfully removed through surgery, which left her arm 90% paralysed. Despite enduring radiotherapy and a succession of treatments, the cancer returned aggressively, spreading to her lungs, ultimately rendering her illness terminal. Recent attempts at chemotherapy and other treatments have been unsuccessful, prompting Sam to focus on spending precious time with her husband, Jamie, and their two children, George (9) and Lorelai (7).

Former Mayor of Aylesbury, Cllr Steven Lambert said: “I went to The Library Bar as one of my first engagement as Mayor and this truly was a real community space. Sam’s dream of creating a welcoming place where you could absolutely be authentically yourself was really important to her, and events I’ve seen over the last year, like Random Acts of Kindness Day have been integral in maintaining community spirit. One of the best things I ever did as Mayor was learning how to Morris Dance in her bar!

“Her vision was similar to that of a mayor in that it was about bringing community together and shining a light that people are attracted to and feel safe and welcomed towards. You would never walk into her bar as a stranger, even if you didn’t know anybody – somebody would stop and say hello and you would make friends very easily. For the LGBTQIA+ community that can be really hard to do at times and to be authentically you – and yet Sam succeeded, and her beautiful vision was brought to life. 

“The fact that the bar is now going to close is really very sad. But Sam’s legacy here will go on for many years from the friendships that were built, the encouragement and the growth that many young people have been gifted with – all because of Sam.” 

Since April, Sam has been unable to work at the bar, and operational costs have become unsustainable in her absence. Though she has actively sought a buyer to continue her vision, she has yet to secure a suitable candidate.  

In recognition of her resilience and dedication, Sam’s friends and family have launched a GoFundMe page to help support the family’s medical and travel expenses as she receives ongoing treatment in Liverpool. The fundraiser will provide essential support for her loved ones as they navigate this difficult period without income from the bar. 

If you wish to contribute to the family please visit their GoFundMe page.  


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Restore Hope volunteers win royal approval

Liz Nicholls

Well done to the 200+ strong team of volunteers from local charity Restore Hope have been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2024.

A team of volunteers have earned the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is equivalent to an MBE, and awarded for life. This recognition comes at a seminal moment for the charity, which has just received planning permission to transform the former St John’s Methodist Church in Woodside Road, into a Community Hub, in the heart of Amersham.

Since opening in 2002, Restore Hope’s volunteers have helped thousands of families in need throughout our community. Last year Restore Hope’s volunteers gave more than 7,500 hours of their time, working tirelessly to improve the lives of local families facing difficult life circumstances.

Restore Hope’s volunteers support parents and families by delivering courses, coffee mornings, lunch groups, celebration events, and gardening groups. They also support fathers and young men through the outdoor fire kitchen, helping those who attend to improve confidence, gain practical skills in cooking and construction, and be inspired to become positive role models.

The volunteers pack and deliver weekly fresh produce boxes to those experiencing food insecurity, grow and harvest fruit and vegetables for food boxes, help young people by teaching them about local land and unique chalk stream eco-system, and the value of volunteering.

Volunteers also maintain the charity’s 360-acre estate by mending bridges, repairing equipment and landscaping, ensuring the site is safe and welcoming to all. They mentor people on the pathway towards employment, offering practical and emotional support.

The charity also welcomes groups of young volunteers from three nearby special secondary schools, who help care for the environment, grow produce for our food boxes, and help maintain the estate.

Restore Hope CEO, Nate Sence, says: “Restore Hope simply wouldn’t exist without our volunteers, some of whom have been at the charity serving local people for the last 22 years. I am incredibly grateful for their time, energy, and passion. I can’t think of a more deserving group of people to receive this recognition from His Majesty the King, than Restore Hope’s caring and dedicated volunteers.’

Restore Hope in latimer will host an outdoor nativity light Trail, 4.30-6pm or 7-8.30pm on 3rd, 4th & 5th December.


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Bucks hospice charity remembers lost loved

Liz Nicholls

The Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care team are once again offering people the chance to remember the lives of loved ones with its annual Light up a Life campaign.

The charity will host two Light up a Life services in the lead-up to Christmas.

The first event will be held at Duke Street Gardens in Princes Risborough at 4pm on Sunday, 24th November. It will be hosted by the Rotary Club of Princes Risborough as an outdoor Tree of Light service including readings, poems, and carols.

The second event will be held at All Saints Parish Church in High Wycombe at 2pm on Saturday, 30th November. Hosted by the Rennie Grove Peace High Wycombe Fundraising Group, the service will include carols and readings followed by the switching on of the Christmas tree lights.

Local people are invited to light a candle in memory of a loved one. Those attending the High Wycombe event will also have the opportunity to hang a silver star with a personalised message on a special tree of remembrance.

The services are free to attend and open to anybody who has been bereaved and would like to remember the people they miss in this special way.

Those who can’t attend in person are invited to dedicate a star in memory of the people they miss. Anyone who makes a donation to the charity will receive a star and card to personalise and display at home during the festive season.

Tracey Hancock, Director of Fundraising at Rennie Grove Peace, says: “We know that this time of year can be very difficult for anybody who has been bereaved. By offering people the chance to dedicate a star or attend our remembrance service we hope we are giving them a chance to remember the people they have lost, at the same time as supporting our work.

“Every penny raised through donations at the event and star dedications will be used to provide vital hospice care services for people in our community who are living with life-limiting illnesses.”


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Magical Santa Dash for Thames Hospice

Liz Nicholls

You’re all invited to embark on a magical journey through the enchanted Swinley Forest in Bracknell on Sunday, 8th December, in aid of a wonderful cause

Attention Dashers! A sleigh of Santas and their herd of reindeer are taking time out of their busy festive schedule to help a very special charity.

You can choose between a 2k, 5k or 10k route, suitable for the dashers, prancers or steppers, there’s something for everyone.

Invite your friends, family, colleagues, neighbours to take part and help raise funds to ensure Thames Hospice can provide compassionate care to those who need it now and in the future.

You’re just asked to raise a minimum sponsorship of £50. By raising just £50 you could fund two Healthcare Assistants visiting a patient at home making sure they have everything they need to be comfortable in a familar environment, surrounded by their loved ones.

Thanks go to sponsors Bridges

Visit Santa Dash 2024 | Thames Hospice


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Newbury’s LoLA (Lots of Lovely Art)

Liz Nicholls

Inside a jolly yellow building on Newbury High Street, Alara & Selina are on a mission to spread the joy of creativity with LoLA including some Christmas workshops coming up

Alara and Selina (mums and sisters-in-law) feel passionate about the arts and art education.

They are on a mission to spread the word about process-based, artist-inspired experiences which help children to develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, self-confidence and to have fun!

Unfortunately two-thirds of primary schools in England receive less art education now than they did a decade ago. Over the past five years Alara and Selina have built up LoLA (Lots of Lovely Art) into a successful company that creates magical educational art boxes, sketchbooks and art-activity booklets to support children of all ages to be creative at home. LoLA boxes and sketchbooks are sold in retail spaces such as Harrods, Molly Meg, Conscious Craft, the Science Museum and online.

Wanting to create a space for hands-on art children’s classes, they have now developed the LoLA Creative Space and Café in Newbury. As well as a warm welcoming café, the space offers a wide variety of classes for everyone. All ages are welcome, from Little Ones (ages two to four) to after-school classes, home-education options, workshops for young adults and weekend sessions for the whole family.

Upcoming Christmas workshops include a This is Me Art Journal session (scrapbooking & expressing emotions), 10.30am-12pm on Saturday, 23rd November and a Make Your Own Advent Calendar, 1.30-2pm on 23rd & 10.30a-12pm on Sunday 24th. 10.30am–12pm on Saturday, 30th November you can make a recycled reindeer head decoration inspired by Picasso and 1.30-3pm, tree decorations inspired by folk art. 10.30am-12pm on Sunday, 1st December, there’s Christmas gift-making. The same time on Saturday, 7th December, you can make an arty wreath inspired by Andy Warhol and, 1.30-3pm, Christmas cards, gift tags and wrapping paper. On Sunday, 8th December, 10:30am-12pm you can make painted giant stockings. On Saturday, 14th December, 10.30am- 12pm make angel tree toppers and 1.30-3pm make mini Christmas trees inspired by Ai Weiwei. And, 10.30-12pm on Sunday, 15th December you can make snowflakes, stars and garlands

While teaching workshops are not being held, head along to the café for a coffee while your child gets freely creative! Open Studios are offered nearly every day at the studio where projects and materials are offered on the art table. One ticket includes a hot drink and one space for a child to create at the workshop table.

Pop in to LoLA in Newbury, near the clock tower, RG14 1DT, to say hi or, for more info please email [email protected]


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Step Into Christmas at Wycombe Swan!

Liz Nicholls

This Christmas feelgood show brings all the magic of the season to life with all your favourite songs, so book your tickets for 28th November now!

Step Into Christmas is a festive, feel-good show that brings all the magic of the season to life, with all your favourite Christmas songs including All I Want for Christmas Is You, Last Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, Stay Another Day, Let it Snow, White Christmas, Do They Know it’s Christmas, A Winter’s Tale, Merry Xmas Everybody, and many, many more!

The show is produced by entertainers, one of the UK’s leading entertainment producers. Entertainers is run by father and son team, Michael and James Taylor who were recently listed in The Stage Top 100, a list of the most influential people in the theatre industry. They have over 30 other productions in their portfolio including The Magic of Motown, Cirque: The Greatest Show, The Rocket Man, Fastlove, and The Makings of a Murderer all of which are touring the UK throughout the year.

For more information visit entertainers.

Tickets can be purchased from Wycombe Swan Theatre


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The Crown at Bray’s game night

Liz Nicholls

On Thursday 21st November, The Crown at Bray is hosting a fabulous, five-course dinner to celebrate game season which is well and truly underway in Berkshire and its surrounding area.

The highlight, curated by head chef Scott Smith, champions locally sourced game, including venison from Chiltern Venison [ Read more ] and pheasant which has been shot by The Crown’s very own tournant James.

Scott’s perfect, five-course tasting menu

The evening will start with a buttermilk-fried rabbit leg served with a moreish tarragon and bacon mayonnaise, followed by tender pigeon breast served with warm and nutty freekah; liver parfait and tart preserved plums.

Next, indulge in beautiful venison carpaccio served with mouth-watering pickled vegetables and beetroot; followed by deliciously rich pheasant breast; hearty choux farcie (stuffed cabbage); jus gras and bacon.

The evening will wrap up with a delectable custard tart served with velvety butter poached raisins.

£60 per person and you can book between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Each course can be perfectly paired with a thoughtfully curated wine flight for an additional £40 per person and tickets are expected to sell quickly so book now before it’s too late.

The Crown at Bray, SL6 2AH. Call 01628 621936 or visit The Crown at Bray


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