Full of beans ahead of Easter! 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Milissa Davis, Watlington chocolatier & director of Tutu Chocolates, tells us about her sweet journey 

Watlington, with its picturesque Chilterns landscape, is a dream location for any chocolatier. The town is a perfect stop for walkers exploring the Ridgeway, especially on National Walking Day (it’s the first Wednesday of April). 

What makes Watlington even more special is its thriving independent high street, where shop owners pour their hearts into unique, curated products. From artisanal food to one-of-a-kind gifts, it’s a town chock-full of character.  

Tutu Chocolates was founded in 2011 by Zoe Haynes. My journey with chocolate began when I was 16, working as a Saturday girl at Tutu Chocolates. I fell in love with the art of chocolate making, fascinated by the craftsmanship and creativity. That passion led me to become an apprentice chocolatier, honing my skills, learning the techniques of tempering, moulding, and flavour balancing. Eager to expand my knowledge, after working for Tutu Chocolates for five years, I worked in London, completing courses across the UK & America, gaining invaluable insights from some of the best in the industry. When Zoe decided to retire & the opportunity arose to buy Tutu Chocolates in 2023, I knew I had to jump at the chance! At 23, I took on the challenge of owning and running the business, making me one of the youngest chocolatiers in the UK with my own shop. It’s been an incredible journey.  

Every chocolate is crafted by hand using traditional techniques. Tutu Chocolates is committed to sustainability and sources its cocoa through Cocoa Horizons, which supports farmers and promotes ethical practices. 

From the award-winning Fennel Pollen, Honey & Ginger truffle to the bold Mango & Chilli truffle, each piece is carefully curated to surprise and delight. The shop offers an immersive experience where you can witness the magic of chocolate making. Walking into Tutu Chocolates isn’t just about buying chocolate – it’s about experiencing it. The shop is filled with the scent of rich cocoa, the warmth of handcrafted artistry, and the joy of watching chocolate being made right in front of you. It’s a place where every piece has a story, and every bite is a moment to savour. Rich in antioxidants, chocolate boosts heart health, enhances brain function, supports mood & wellbeing, thanks to essential minerals and natural ingredients. 

Owning Tutu Chocolates has been filled with incredible moments. We recently won bronze for our Fennel Pollen, Honey & Ginger Truffle in the Academy of Chocolate, using Oxfordshire Clear Honey from our lovely Watlington beekeeper, for sale at Calnan Bros Butchers.  

I love seeing customers return happy again & again! From 5th April I’ll be creating a Tumble Stone Hollow Gigantic Easter Egg you can win at Stonor Park. And up until 18th April (Good Friday) Tutu Chocolates is collaborating with No.4 for an Easter competition to win a chocolate bunny & a soft toy bunny teddy!  

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The Skadinals, get moving for two-tone! 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

The Skadinals are sure to get the crowd bouncing at a venue or festival near you soon, including at The Chequers Marlow on 11th April. Liz Nicholls chats to singer Colin… 

Ska music – with its intoxicating fusion of Caribbean rhythms, jazz and R&B influences – is joyful and energetic, as you’ll find at The Skadinals’ live gigs. 

“We always have the place bouncing by the end of the night!” says Colin, who lives in High Wycombe. “We cover classic two-tone hits from the likes of Madness, The Specials, Bad Manners, The Beat and others. We’ve been going about 18 months with the current line-up and are steadily building a following.”  

 Today, The Skadinals’ line-up includes drummer Neil who lives in Faringdon, Witney bassist and backing vocalist Kev, guitarist Martin who lives in Wantage and sax player Nick who lives in Wycombe. 

Colin, who had been playing open mics and doing a few solo acoustic gigs but had never sung in a band before, was recruited via joinmyband.co.uk by the band’s original guitarist. He says: “I loved Madness but wasn’t that familiar with the rest of the two-tone genre other than the famous songs everyone knows… What followed was a three-month intensive ska boot camp as we built up a set list from scratch. We had our first gig in July 2022. It went pretty well and The Skadinals were off. We’ve slowly been gathering a following, and are already fully booked for 2025.” 

Last year The Skadinals performed at Witney Music Festival, “probably the largest stage we’ve played, and Follyfest in Faringdon where we went down a storm”. This year, festivals fans (watch this space for our festivals special next month!) they’ll perform at Lane End Festival, Follyfest, The Wycombe Big Bash 25 & Festibell, at The Bell in Princes Risborough… 

“We love playing the The Bell, it’s our most-played venue,” adds Colin. “It’s always a great crowd in there and each visit has been busier than the last. Other pubs we enjoy playing are The Belle Vue (probably Wycombe’s number-one music pub) and The Dashwood Roadhouse which also has its own PA and sound engineer. We’ve had a couple of amazing gigs there. 

“We also love Fat Lil’s in Witney; they have a house PA, a great sound engineer, a stage and a dancefloor, and The Red Lion in Kidlington. The Kingsley Cafe is a great venue, it’s shame they don’t do more evening gigs. We play infectious dance music and we like to see people up and dancing and singing. It means we’re doing it right, feed off that energy and play better. There’s nothing more rewarding than looking out from the stage and seeing the venue bouncing and people enjoying themselves.  

“We’ve tried to make fezzes a ‘thing’ for the band. The dream is to see a room full of people, and a sea of fezzes! Judging from our recent gig at Fat Lil’s, we’re getting there!” 

Find The Skadinals on Facebook at Visit facebook.com/Skadinals/ 

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Echoes of the Landscape in Woodstock 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Enjoy 40+ artworks by sculptor Jon Earney & watercolourist Rod Craig in Woodstock, 14th to 21st April  

Art lovers visiting Woodstock this spring are set to be captivated by an inspirational joint exhibition featuring over 40 artworks by renowned watercolourist Rod Craig and sculptor Jon Earney. The exhibition will be hosted at No 14 Gallery. 

Both artists draw much of their inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside; Rod’s paintings of the majestic ancient oaks of Blenheim are a fitting companion to Jon’s meticulously crafted wooden sculptures as shown in Balance (above), a work in walnut.  

Rod’s light-filled watercolours (Little Green and Here Comes the Sun here) reflect a similar quality to Jon’s translucent polished alabaster sculptures (such as Pierced and Infinity). Jon says: “Working in alabaster is a calming, sensory experience. Smoothing the sculptures is a very long and extremely tactile process – I know it’s finished when it ‘feels’ right.” 

Jon Earney and Rod Craig met through their association with Artists in Woodstock and have exhibited together previously in group shows. Rod says: “I’m thrilled to have a joint exhibition with Jon; a synergy has developed in our respective work and both have an endless fascination for the elements, how time weathers the trees and landscape and the beauty of light on nature.” Jon adds: “When I moved to Woodstock, I saw Rod’s work in a gallery and was immediately drawn. It seemed we were both striving to create a little beauty and permanence in a chaotic world.” 

Woodstock has been Rod’s home for more than 30 years. He started his design business in the town and for the last 15 years has been painting full time – in his studio and out on location. When Rod isn’t painting, he can be heard playing the mandolin in various musical ensembles. He says: “Woodstock is an inspiring and unique place; striking architecture, lovely water meadows close by and of course Blenheim Park on our doorstep. Watercolour is my preferred medium; its vibrancy and fluidity allow me to create dramatic moods and atmospheric paintings of the countryside.”  

Jon’s career path was set in stone early; some of his earliest memories are “walking the beaches in Norfolk with my mother, searching for carnelian and small pieces of agate to take home and tumble polish”.  He started learning lapidary techniques while living in New Zealand, inspired by the resurgence in the Maori art of carving jewellery out of Pounamu (nephrite jade). He taught himself to fashion pendants. “It was a natural progression to sculpting in stone,” says Jon. “I love being outdoors searching. The most organic-looking of my pieces are likely to be from stones I’ve picked up on beaches and mountainsides.  

“More recently I’ve enjoyed the challenge of working in English woods; these are scavenged from hedgerows and recycled from dead trees. Barbara Hepworth has been a huge inspiration, particularly her use of negative space.” 

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Evie Whitehead: ‘listen to your gut!’ 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Local nutritional therapist Evie Whitehead, DipION, mBANT, CNHC, who recently launched podcast series with ITN, advises us all to trust our gut! 

Born in Amersham, brought up in Beaconsfield, I am a local nutritional therapist with a passion for helping people feel their best through food!  

I have over a decade’s experience in helping people with all kinds of health concerns, but I specialise in gut-related issues. I run my private clinic in Bourne End and see my clients mostly online for private one-to-one consultation. My approach is realistic using simple, achievable and sustainable changes to help you feel your best. I often find the simple changes people can stick to get the best results, so please don’t think nutritional therapy means turning your world upside down!  

My very first client had an inflammatory bowel condition called diverticulitis. To study this condition, I leaned into the mysteries and inner workings of the gut and gut microbes which fascinated me. I started to see lots of people with irritable bowel syndrome (and still do) and learned how to find and correct the root cause/s of these conditions. Ten years on, it’s still my passion.  

We don’t know everything about the gut yet – this fascinating scientific area is still in its infancy. Despite recent advancements, we’re still uncovering the complex relationships between gut bacteria and human health. However, we know that we can modulate the behaviour and balance of the trillions of gut microbes in our gastrointestinal tract through food. This holds much promise in terms of preventing disease including autoimmune conditions, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases.  

Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing gut experts from around the world on my ITN podcast series Listen to Your Gut. Interestingly, from the experts’ studies, the key missing component in participants’ diets was the same, regardless whether the condition was diabetes type 2, Crohn’s disease or depression. The missing ingredient in our western diet is fibre which we’ve largely replaced with ultra processed foods. These are generally low-nutrient, softer in texture and moreish, meaning we easily overeat them. They satisfy the dopamine centres in our brain making them highly addictive and they’re everywhere!  

Our food has changed so much since the industrial era but in the last 20-30 years it has become even more processed, full of sugar, oils and additives, making this “food” cheap to produce with long shelf life. This shift directly impacts our digestive system and gut microbes. We’re literally starving our gut microbes of the nutrients they need to survive which is making us ill. However, the good news is we can make some simple changes to make a big difference. Why not book a free, no-obligation call with me? Just email info@evienutrition.co.uk.

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Grow Together Bucks helping your community 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Stephanie Killingbeck-Turner tells us about Growing Together Bucks (GTB), founded in 2020 with a vision to help local communities grow fresh food together & boost wellbeing 

Five years ago we were offered an overgrown allotment at Back Lane at Wycombe Marsh as a site for a community allotment. 

It was the early days of the first lockdown; fortunately allotments were one of the few places we could visit. With the help of committed volunteers, we established growing beds, accessed by wood chip paths. In 2023, support from the Rothchild Foundation enabled us to continue our community work. 

Today the allotment is a thriving organic growing space maintained by a wonderful, open, friendly group who welcome new volunteers, with Wednesday & Saturday morning sessions restarting in spring. Once a month through the summer, we share and enjoy a vegetarian lunch, made from produce harvested that morning and cooked on site. Volunteers also take home some of the crop with any spare food being donated to the One Can Trust. 

We also run two other projects: working in schools and community volunteering days. Our experience teaching in five schools has grown into the creation of a GTB Practical Growing Programme. This year, Marsh & Micklefield Big Local are supporting our work with Marsh Primary and Ash Hill School.  

Please find out more & get in touch at growtogetherbucks.co.uk

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Astrology & Tarot for April

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

What’s in store for you this month? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers some useful guidance for all signs to help you navigate April

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

April kicks off your season with a bang, as your natural fiery energy is at its peak. But hold off on
speaking your mind until Mercury turns direct on the 7th, as words could land you in unnecessary
drama. The Full Moon on the 12th sheds light on a relationship, and with Venus also turning direct,
you’ll need to make a decision between love and business. When Mercury moves into your sign on
the 16th, you’ll have the clarity to make the best choice. Romance heats up with Mars in your love
zone on the 18th, sparking new flames or deepening existing connections. Your finances brighten
when the Sun enters Taurus on the 19th, easing any cash flow concerns. On the 27th, the New Moon
offers a chance to boost your earnings, and when Venus moves into Aries on the 30th, love and
money are both on the rise. By month’s end, you’ll be in prime shape for success.


Tarot Advice:
The Emperor – The Emperor calls you to take charge and lead with authority. Be assertive and
confident in your decisions, particularly around your career and personal goals. You have the power
to create structure and achieve success, but don’t forget to be compassionate in your leadership.
Stay grounded and embrace your inner authority

Taurus (April 21 – May 20)

April starts off a little quieter as you focus on introspection, but once Mercury goes direct on the
7th, expect an uptick in social invitations. The 8th is perfect for a party or date, thanks to a
supportive Venus-Uranus connection. A work-related matter comes to a head during the Full Moon
on the 12th, while Venus turning direct that same day boosts your social life. Mercury’s move into
Aries on the 16th brings juicy gossip your way. Domestic matters take priority when Mars enters
your home zone on the 18th, pushing you into a leadership role with your loved ones. On the 19th,
the Sun enters Taurus, making you the centre of attention for the next few weeks. The New Moon
on the 27th is ideal for revamping your look, while Venus entering your sign on the 30th will ignite
your romantic life. By month’s end, you’ll be in full bloom.


Tarot Advice:
9 of Wands – The 9 of Wands advises resilience. You may feel tired or defensive, but don’t give up
just yet. You’ve made it this far, and now is not the time to let your guard down. Protect your
progress and stay focused. Trust that the finish line is closer than it appears.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

April brings a spotlight on friendships, with plenty of fun and socialising. Mercury’s direct motion
on the 7th sharpens your communication, boosting your natural charm. The Full Moon on the 12th
is perfect for a romantic date, and with Venus turning direct, love is in the air. When Mercury moves
into Aries on the 16th, expect a flurry of gossip and conversation. Mars in your travel zone from the
18th encourages spontaneous adventures. On the 19th, the Sun moves into your private 12th house,
giving you a well-deserved break. The 27th’s New Moon is ideal for a spa day or recharging. With
Venus in Aries on the 30th, your social life ramps up, but balance is key to enjoying both the fun
and the rest.

Tarot Advice:
Queen of Swords – The Queen of Swords suggests a need for clear, sharp communication. You
may be called upon to cut through confusion and express your truth. Stay objective, logical, and use
your intellectual clarity to make the best decisions, particularly in matters of the heart and career.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

April shines a spotlight on your career, with the Sun boosting your professional standing. Mercury
going direct on the 7th also clears any travel issues. The Full Moon on the 12th provides clarity on a
family matter, and with Venus turning direct, romantic opportunities are in the air. When Mercury
enters your career zone on the 16th, expect an increase in recognition, while Mars in your financial
zone from the 18th boosts your hustle and cash flow. Social events take off when the Sun enters
Taurus on the 19th, so don’t shy away from invitations. The New Moon on the 27th is perfect for a
party or fun social event, and with Venus moving into Aries on the 30th, your popularity soars. April
promises both career success and social delights.

Tarot Advice:
The Moon – The Moon urges you to trust your intuition, especially when things seem unclear.
There may be hidden truths that need to be uncovered. Be mindful of any illusions or
misunderstandings around you. Stay connected to your instincts, as they will guide you through
foggy moments.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Travel is on your mind this month, with the Sun highlighting exciting journeys. Mercury goes direct
on the 7th, and the 6th and 12th are perfect for spontaneous trips. The Full Moon on the 12th is
great for a quick getaway. Finances improve when Venus turns direct on the 12th, allowing you to
recover from any spending sprees. Mercury’s move into Aries on the 16th boosts your education
sector, making it a good time to apply for courses or exams. Mars enters your sign on the 18th,
giving you a surge of energy and drive. Career opportunities increase when the Sun enters Taurus
on the 19th. The New Moon on the 27th brings an exciting career opportunity, possibly a promotion
or new role. The 30th promises a romantic getaway with Venus in Aries, making it a fantastic time
to reconnect.

Tarot Advice:
3 of Pentacles – The 3 of Pentacles highlights collaboration and teamwork. This card suggests you
may need to rely on others to help you achieve your goals. Don’t hesitate to ask for support and
trust that combining efforts will lead to success. Teamwork makes the dream work.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

April brings financial stability, with the Sun highlighting your joint finances. After Mercury goes
direct on the 7th, you can sign contracts or make key financial moves. The Full Moon on the 12th is
ideal for clearing debts or collecting money owed. Venus turning direct on the 12th boosts your
romantic life, making it a great time for relationships, whether new or rekindled. Mercury’s move
into Aries on the 16th enhances your flirt game. Mars enters your introspective sector on the 18th,
focusing your energy on behind-the-scenes work and private matters. A business trip is on the cards
when the Sun enters your travel zone on the 19th. The 27th’s New Moon is excellent for a workrelated journey, mixing business and pleasure. Venus in Aries on the 30th will add heat to your love
life.

Tarot Advice:
7 of Wands – The 7 of Wands urges you to defend your position and stand your ground. You may
face challenges or competition, but with determination, you can overcome them. Keep fighting for
what you believe in and don’t let anyone take what you’ve earned.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

April deepens your relationships, with the Sun in your partnership sector helping you form stronger
connections. Mercury turning direct on the 7th clears communication hurdles, and the Full Moon on
the 12th allows you to voice your needs. Venus turning direct that day also boosts your romantic
prospects. Mercury’s move into Aries on the 16th helps clear the air with loved ones. Social events
will be plentiful when Mars enters Leo on the 18th, and you’ll be the life of the party. The Sun
enters Taurus on the 19th, drawing attention to your finances. The New Moon on the 27th offers a
new opportunity to grow your wealth, while Venus in Aries on the 30th heats up your romantic life.
A month of deep connection and exciting possibilities awaits!

Tarot Advice:
Justice – The Justice card calls for fairness, balance, and accountability. This is a time for you to
seek the truth and make decisions based on what’s right, not just what’s easy. Your actions will have
lasting consequences, so make sure to weigh all sides before you proceed.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 22)

April positions you as a natural leader, especially in your work life. With Mars sextiling Uranus on
the 4th, take charge of your team. Mercury goes direct on the 7th, making communication smoother.
The Full Moon on the 12th is perfect for a romantic retreat, with Venus also going direct that day.
Career moves become dynamic around the 16th, and Mars entering your ambition zone on the 18th
will push you toward success. The Sun enters your partnership sector on the 19th, leading to
influential connections. The New Moon on the 27th could bring a new romantic connection or take
your current relationship to a deeper level. Venus in your work sector on the 30th will bring
recognition and reward for your efforts.

Tarot Advice:
8 of Swords (Reversed) – The 8 of Swords reversed indicates a liberation from mental blocks or
restrictions. You may feel as though you’ve been trapped by your thoughts, but this is a time of
clarity and release. Trust that you can free yourself from any perceived limitations, and move
forward with renewed confidence.

Sagittarius (November 23 – December 21)

April brings opportunities for romance and travel. The Sun and Neptune in your love sector mean
you could meet someone special this month. The 6th is ideal for a romantic gesture. Home life
becomes busier when Mercury turns direct on the 7th, while the Full Moon on the 12th is great for a
gathering with friends. On the 12th, Venus also turns direct, making it a good time for home
projects. When Mercury moves into Aries on the 16th and Mars enters your travel zone on the 18th,
it’s time for a spontaneous adventure. The Sun’s move into Taurus on the 19th increases your career
prospects. The 27th New Moon opens the door for a career boost. Romance heats up when Venus
enters Aries on the 30th, making the end of April a time for passion.

Tarot Advice:
Page of Cups – The Page of Cups encourages you to embrace your creativity and intuition. There’s
a sense of emotional renewal with this card, and it may also indicate new romantic possibilities. Be
open to love, as it may arrive in unexpected forms. Stay playful and curious.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

April is a productive month with a focus on home improvements and errands. The Sun in your
domestic sector gives you control over home projects. After Mercury goes direct on the 7th, it’s
easier to communicate and get people on board. The Full Moon on the 12th shines on your career,
bringing recognition. Venus turning direct that day improves your romantic prospects. Mars enters
your finance sector on the 18th, urging you to take calculated risks with money. The Sun in Taurus
on the 19th brings financial focus. The New Moon on the 27th is perfect for a hot date or new
romantic connection. Venus enters your home sector on the 30th, leading to cosy nights in.

Tarot Advice:
The Chariot – The Chariot asks you to take control and charge ahead with determination. This is a
time of movement and progress, and you are in the driver’s seat. Don’t let distractions derail your
focus. Stay confident and keep pushing towards your goals.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

April is a month full of socialising, with the Sun in your communication sector sparking lively
conversations. Meet up with friends on the 4th for a chat, thanks to Saturn and Uranus forming a
favourable connection. Mercury goes direct on the 7th, clearing up any misunderstandings. The Full
Moon on the 12th is perfect for travel and romance, while Venus turning direct on the same day
enhances your charm. Mercury in Aries on the 16th helps you make a bold statement. Domestic
matters take centre stage when the Sun moves into Taurus on the 19th. If you’re considering a
move, the New Moon on the 27th is great for house-hunting. Venus in Aries on the 30th will make
negotiations easier, whether it’s for a new home or a new relationship.

Tarot Advice:
7 of Swords – The 7 of Swords warns against deceit or dishonesty. This card suggests you may
need to be cautious in both personal and professional matters. Remain alert to any situations that
feel shady or underhanded. Ensure integrity and transparency in your dealings with others.

Pisces (February 20 – March 20)

April brings financial balance, with the Sun highlighting opportunities to increase your income.
Mercury turning direct on the 7th is ideal for salary negotiations. The Full Moon on the 12th is
perfect for paying off debts or restructuring your finances. Venus turning direct that day boosts your
charm, making it an excellent time for romance. Mercury’s move into Aries on the 16th brings
creative ideas that could lead to new revenue streams. Mars entering your work zone on the 18th
positions you for leadership. Short trips become appealing when the Sun moves into your travel
zone on the 19th. The 27th’s New Moon is perfect for a rewarding getaway. Venus in Aries on the
30th ends the month on a prosperous note.

Tarot Advice:
King of Cups (Reversed) – The King of Cups reversed signals a need to be more emotionally
balanced. You might be feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from your feelings. This is a time to
address any emotional turbulence, so take a step back and focus on regaining inner calm and
stability.

  • Watch this space for our competition to win a reading with Mel! To find out more about Melanie, as well as Tarot, Astrology & healing, please visit soulhealingguidance.co.uk

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Star Q&A with Tim Rice ahead of tour  

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Liz Nicholls chats to the multi-award winning, internationally renowned lyricist Sir Tim Rice who returns to a theatre stage near you this spring with Tim Rice My Life In Musicals I Know Him So Well 

This incredibly special show which toured earlier this year has proved so popular that 33 new dates have been added. During the show, which visits Reading Hexagon, Guildford’s G Live, Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre, Oxford’s New Theatre and Wycombe Swan in April and May, Tim reflects on his illustrious career at the heart of musical theatre. 

Tim, who is associated with writing the lyrics for so many of the world’s great musicals – Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, as well as the Disney productions The Lion King, Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast, will share anecdotes behind the songs –  the hits and the misses along with stories of his life. There will be live performances from his wonderful catalogue of songs with leading West End singers and musicians led by Duncan Waugh. 

Q. Hello.. How would you like to be addressed? “I think ‘my liege’… no only joking, Tim is fine!” 

Q. You were born at Shardeloes in Bucks, weren’t you? “Yes, not that I remember it! It was just at the end of the war… the second world war, not the Boer War! My mother had been in the WAF during the war, where she met my father; they got married in Egypt in 1942. Shardeloes is a wonderful stately home, a country house, and it was commandeered from the family who kindly gave it to the war effort so it became a wartime hospital. Quite a grand place to be born! Now I live in Buckinghamshire (just!), in the Hambleden Valley which is beautiful, with very nice pubs which I like going to. Not all on the same night, very often, I might add!” 

Q. What’s your first memory of music? “That’s an interesting question. Well, I was listening to Boom Radio yesterday from 1954, and I realised I knew every song, including the Winifred Atwell instrumentals. I would have been nine, and even ones I’d sort-of forgotten were in my brain, after all. These were songs I’d have heard on my parents’ radio.” 

Q. It’s Record Store Day this month; do you still love vinyl? “I do! I’ve got about 3,000 singles and probably 1,000 albums, and I’m still adding to that collection. I often dip randomly into my shelves and pull out a record by an act who’ve only had one hit and it’s very interesting listening to stuff from another time, either from the 1990s or even before I was born. If you play something on your phone it’s nearly always in the background, but if you’re playing a record, you stop, appreciate the cover, the artwork. When I was a teenager we’d get together for the sole purpose of playing records. We’d be very careful, if possible, not all to buy the same ones; we could probably only afford to buy one single a month. I’d check with a friend – ‘have you got Elvis’s latest? If you have I won’t buy it but I’ll buy Cliff’s instead’. It was a different era and playing a hit record was an event, something you shared.” 

Q. What was the first record you bought? “The first pop record I bought was Tommy Steele singing the blues which was a number one record, and a cover of Guy Mitchell, a really big American singer who used to sing pretty corny songs. In those days the big British acts – Marty Wilde, Cliff Richard, Billy Fury – would often cover American hits. Guy was a good singer but sang it very straight. Tommy was the first rock and roll singer Britain ever produced and I preferred his version, and still do!” 

Q. Did you enjoy school? “Yes I did on the whole. I was quite bright so I got by without doing too much work which is probably an appalling thing to say! I look back on my schooldays very warmly. I was part of a pop group, very much based on Cliff Richard and the Shadows; this was just before The Beatles and they were very big and influential. I used to enjoy concerts, classical stuff. Looking back, performing with friends was quite a formative experience and I wasn’t too bad at it. I was never going to be a pop star but I learned a bit about controlling an audience which was fun.” 

Q. You’ve worked with such legends. Have you ever been starstruck? “Yes, almost every time! When you’re working with the likes of Elton [John], Alan [Menken], Bjorn & Benny, you think, my God, I’m working with the best here, I’ve really got to pull my finger out! You have to be slightly in awe of their talent.” 

Q. You’re working with Andrew Lloyd Webber right now aren’t you? “Yes, on a fantastic comedy spoof called Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas written by two very talented writers; Humphrey Ker & David Reed, which premieres at the Birmingham Rep in November. They’ve written the piece and it works as a straight-forward comedy. They asked me to write some music, and I asked Andrew and he agreed. We speak a lot. I first met Andrew in 1965 when I was a failing law student trying to be a pop singer on the side.” 

Q. If you had a magic wand what would you wish? “Ooof. Well, I like to think you’d think of your family of course. But something else: I’d ban solar panels from covering beautiful green farmland. I go down to Cornwall a lot and it’s very depressing seeing fields covered in plastic. By all means, stick them on roofs, but if I had a magic wand, whoosh, they’d vanish from the fields!” 

Tickets for Sir Tim Rice’s show, My Life in Musicals – I Know Him So Well are on sale now and can be purchased via: www.sirtimricelive.com 

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Queen of the Night, Whitney lives! 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Attention, Whitney Houston fans! Queen of the Night returns, bigger and brighter with an epic 2025 tour including highlights at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre on 6th April, The Hexagon in reading on 24th May & more… 

After an unforgettable 2024 – with more than 100,000 tickets sold, a blockbuster UK arena tour, and standing ovations at the Royal Albert Hall and The London Palladium – the phenomenon that is Queen of the Night – A Tribute To Whitney Houston is gearing up to celebrate its 10th anniversary in jaw-dropping style. 

Get ready, because 2025 will see this smash-hit production embark on its most ambitious tour yet, bringing the magic of Whitney Houston to 85 cities and towns across Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England. This is more than a tribute – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime West End theatrical experience, a glittering celebration of the music, spirit, and legacy of one of the greatest voices of all time. 

With a sensational live band, a company of extraordinary vocalists, and a production design that will light up stages across the country, Queen of the Night – A Tribute To Whitney Houston is a show-stopping spectacle like no other. Expect the dancefloor hits, the soul-stirring ballads, and the show-stopping numbers you love – brought to life with all the glamour, drama, and electrifying energy of Whitney herself. 

Adenike Adewale’s breathtaking vocals and magnetic stage presence bring Whitney’s legacy to life in a way that must be seen to be believed.  

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Fisheye Film Festival in High Wycombe 

Liz Nicholls

Posted on

Liz Nicholls

Mariko Francombe invites us all to enjoy a screen highlight with a difference, Wycombe’s Fisheye Film Festival, 24th April to 4th May 

Fisheye is High Wycombe’s local international film festival, where the public are invited to enjoy new short films and features which won’t be seen on the high street. About half were made in the UK and the rest filmed in more than 20 other countries worldwide, all selected from films submitted to Fisheye’s international competition. Fisheye Film Festival is named after the “fisheye” lens which is designed to capture an all-round view, and invites audiences to “experience the bigger picture”. 

Mariko moved to High Wycombe in 1986 to work at the RHM site in Lincoln Road. She and her husband raised their two daughters in West Wycombe and Mariko studied part-time to pursue her interest in art and design, finally graduating in Fine Art from Buckinghamshire New University, then working there as a video producer. 

“I enjoy walking in the hills and woods around West Wycombe and further afield in the Chilterns,” Mariko tells us. “My main pastime is playing tennis in the local leagues; I’m a member at Halton Tennis club near Wendover. I enjoy visiting The Apple Orchard and The Walled Garden in West Wycombe. 

“I love the wildflowers on West Wycombe hill and enjoy the scenic drive along the Saunderton Valley between West Wycombe and Princes Risborough; this is a lovely area!” 

Over the past ten years, Fisheye Film Festival has screened about 40 indie features and the Fisheye team have watched 1,700+ short films, selecting nearly 400 of the best ones to show. This year, 67 films have been chosen including two features. These can be seen at a variety of showcases of about two hours’ duration, most including a Q&A session with filmmakers. Showcases will present a mix of drama, animation, documentary or more experimental or artistic films based on dance or poetry. 

This year’s highlights include the opening night on 24th April, a celebration of ten years since the first Fisheye Film festival in 2015, screening some of the best films over the years. 

“From 25th to 27th April, the Fisheye Fusion weekend will celebrate the mixology of films and the arts that make them,” adds Mariko. “There will be a cocktail of films, based on spoken word, movement and dance brought to life with a dash of live performance. We’re also planning a behind-the- scenes chat about the art department’s role in filmmaking. There will also be events for filmmakers, creatives and anyone interested in the film industry – a chance to meet others that’s open to all. 

“On Saturday, 3rd May, everybody’s invited to be snapped on our fuschia pink ‘red carpet’ at the fabulous Fisheye Finale and Awards gala event. Films will be screened on a huge video wall in a large modern space called the Winter Garden. The 2025 awards will be announced and we’ll celebrate all the filmmakers’ talent, raising a glass to them. Full details of events, venues and tickets will be published on our website at fisheyefilmfest.uk where you can also sign up to the mailing list for updates.” 

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Blossoming friendships on walks for singles 

Liz Nicholls

Posted on

Liz Nicholls

David Jackson will lead a spring walk for singles through Coneybank Wood, 10am-1pm on Sunday, 27th April. We chat to him about his career pivot… 

Every spring, our wondrous woodlands here in the Chilterns hum into life with a carpet of fragrant bluebells. This joyful, seasonal show is certainly not lost on David Jackson, a relative newcomer. 

“I grew up in North Lincolnshire and went to University in London so I only discovered the Chilterns in my thirties,” says David who has lived in Great Missenden for 11 years. “Spring is great and the bluebells and new beech leaves are a highlight. Later in the year I enjoy the wild orchids near Aston Clinton and Whiteleaf Cross. Evening walks are good to see deer.” 

David worked in finance until he was made redundant in 2014 and decided he wanted a different challenge. “One of my passions was trekking in the world’s high mountains, such as the Himalayas, so I booked myself on a navigation skills course, joined meetup and set up Chiltern Walks. Now David organises walks in the Chilterns and walking holidays around the UK. You can join meetup for free and pay for walks and breaks you want to join – visit  meetup.com/chiltern-walks-meetup 

About a year ago, the team from Date in the Diary contacted David to see if he might like to work with them to lead walks for single people. “I’d been organising and leading walks for my group for 10 years and I liked the idea of adding a different dimension that was dedicated to single people,” adds David.  

Date in the Diary events (dateinthediary.com) are designed for like-minded single people, allowing them to meet doing something they love, with none of the pressure of one-to-one dating. If you happen to meet someone you’re attracted to romantically, it’s a bonus, but in the meantime it’s all about genuine friendships and connections. If you wish to continue the social aspect and making connections, Sunday lunch can be booked for after the walk.  

“Last year I attended the wedding of a couple who met on one of my walks,” adds David. “As well as this, numerous friendships have blossomed after people met on my walks. I met many of my own friendship group on my walks. 

“This walk on 27th April goes through one of my favourite bluebell woods in the Chilterns, which explode into glorious colour at this time of year. It takes in a couple of short climbs but much of the walk is through some of the best beech woodland in the area. 

“Many of my walks are suitable for dogs, as long as the dogs are well-behaved around other people and dogs and – because of the wildlife and livestock here in the Chilterns – they must have good recall or be kept on a lead.” 

This walk, which is about six miles, takes about 2.5 hours, and costs £10pp, followed by an optional post-walk pub lunch at The Cross Keys. Join Chilten Walks & book at meetup.com/chiltern-walks-meetup/events 

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