Visit hillside heaven in Missenden

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Overstroud Cottage will open its gates again this month as part of the National Garden Scheme (NGS) local fundraisers

Overstroud Cottage, HP16 9Q, sits halfway up Frith Hill above Great Missenden. In the 17th century this cottage was used as Missenden Abbey’s fever house.

Thanks to The National Open Gardens Scheme, you can visit the gardens of this local treasure, owned by Mr & Mrs Jonathan Brooke on Sunday, 9th June, 2-5pm. Entry is £4 for adults (children free) and cream teas will be served at the nearby parish church.

The chalky soil has been tended on two levels to showcase a collection of 17th & 18th century plants including auriculas, hellebores, bulbs, pulmonarias, peonies, germaniums, dahlias, herbs and succulents. With its blue and white ribbon border, this garden, reminiscent of the late Margery Fish’s garden at East Lambrook Manor, is carved out of an old chalk quarry so the soil is alkaline.

The potager, edged with ‘step-over’ apples is featured is Joy Larkcom’s book, Creative Vegetable Gardening. Traffic noise has been lessened by a layered hedge, row of hornbeams and an ivy ‘fedge’ which forms the backdrop to a mini wildflower meadow. Visit National Garden Scheme (ngs.org.uk) for more info & open gardens.

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Cultural discovery at Cornerstone Arts Centre

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Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot, unveils a summer of self-discovery and cultural revelations with its latest exhibitions

Don’t want to read the full article? Scroll to our FAQs here.

All summer long there’s the chance to immerse yourself in a tapestry of artistic expressions, delving into themes of self-discovery, social commentary, and community heritage.

You may be lucky enough to catch the closing few days of Eden Silver-Myer’s Befriending My Brain. A vibrant display of colours and textures, Eden invites viewers to delve into the depths of neurodiversity and personal acceptance. “Befriending my Brain is,” Eden says, “about feeling like I finally have started to understand my mind after 33 years of feeling like a square peg in round hole after round hole.”

Among the exhibitions not to be missed is Shouting Quietly by Clive Wright, featuring over 500 captivating paintings. From 5th June to 27th July, Wright presents a curated selection that delves into the complexities of human existence, exploring everyday encounters and global phenomena. Each canvas resonates with layers of meaning, inviting viewers to decipher the hidden narratives beneath the surface.

 

He often paints up to half a dozen pictures on a common theme. Here, single pictures have been selected to represent groups of related canvases.

The ordinary events that he sees often become the subject of Clives’ work, such as people that he has observed in a coffee shop, or someone receiving a covid jab.

Didcot Dairy Story, curated by Dr Leah Hewerdine and Ruby Livesey, is at Cornerstone from 31st July to 31st August and is a must-see for anyone interested in Didcot’s history. This exhibition showcases the legacy of the iconic Didcot Dairy through an engaging display of artefacts, photographs, and cherished memories.

Visitors can soak up the nostalgia while supporting Sobell House Hospice and other local causes as part of this exhibition. If you have a Didcot Dairy Story to share, or would like to support the project, don’t bottle it up! Please do get in touch with the team via email at: [email protected]

from intimate reflections to thought-provoking narratives, each exhibition promises to inspire, enlighten, and enrich the summer season at Cornerstone.

The gallery area is free for all visitors to view at the centre during its opening hours.

Cllr Maggie Filipova-Rivers, Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing at South Oxfordshire District Council said: “I love that we can display these exhibitions for free to the public and they can experience such a wide range of art and artists at Cornerstone.

“I’d encourage anyone coming along to Cornerstone whether it’s to see a show or to enjoy some refreshments at Café Nourish to pop into the gallery and view the art on display this summer.”

 

Learn more about the topics discussed in this article. Read on…

 

Neurodiversity and Personal Acceptance

Eden Silver-Myer’s “Befriending My Brain”

Neurodiversity refers to the concept that neurological differences are to be recognised and respected as any other human variation. This includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences.

Art Therapy is a therapeutic technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being. This exhibition aligns with such therapeutic practices, using art to explore and understand personal cognitive experiences.

Personal Acceptance in the context of neurodiversity emphasises the journey towards self-understanding and embracing one’s unique neurological makeup. This is crucial for mental health and well-being, often discussed in psychological and social frameworks.

Human Existence and Everyday Encounters

Clive Wright’s “Shouting Quietly”

Social Realism in Art is a genre that focuses on depicting everyday activities and experiences, often with a focus on the working class and the ordinary events of daily life. Wright’s work resonates with this genre by capturing mundane yet significant moments.

Global Phenomena through Art involve artists interpreting and reflecting on global issues such as pandemics, climate change, and social justice movements. Wright’s inclusion of themes like COVID-19 vaccinations ties local experiences to broader global contexts.

Narrative Art involves artworks that tell a story, inviting viewers to delve into the narrative layers. Each of Wright’s paintings, as described, has hidden stories that viewers are encouraged to uncover, making the viewing experience interactive and reflective.

Community Heritage and Local History

Didcot Dairy Story

Community Curated Exhibitions involve members of the community in the curation process, ensuring that local stories and histories are accurately represented. This can enhance community engagement and ownership of cultural heritage.

Local History Projects like the Didcot Dairy Story preserve and celebrate the unique histories of specific locales. These projects often involve collecting oral histories, photographs, and artifacts from community members.

Nostalgia in Heritage Projects taps into the emotional connection people have with their past, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity. The Didcot Dairy Story aims to evoke such nostalgia, linking past and present through shared memories.

Public Art Accessibility

Free Public Art Spaces democratise access to art, allowing individuals from all socio-economic backgrounds to experience and engage with artistic expressions. This aligns with broader cultural policies aimed at inclusivity and community well-being.

Community Well-being through Arts emphasises the role of cultural activities in enhancing the overall quality of life. Engaging with art can provide emotional and mental health benefits, foster social connections, and create a vibrant community atmosphere.

Get in the know..

1. When does Eden Silver-Myer’s “Befriending My Brain” exhibition end?
– The exhibition is available for viewing until the end of its run in the summer. Specific dates are not provided, so it’s recommended to visit soon to catch the closing days.

2. What are the dates for Clive Wright’s “Shouting Quietly” exhibition?
– Clive Wright’s exhibition runs from June 5th to July 27th.

3. How can I contribute to the Didcot Dairy Story exhibition?
– You can share your Didcot Dairy story by emailing the team at [email protected].

4. Is there a cost to view the exhibitions at Cornerstone Arts Centre?
– No, the gallery exhibitions are free for all visitors during opening hours.

5. What is the duration of the Didcot Dairy Story exhibition?
– The Didcot Dairy Story exhibition runs from July 31st to August 31st.

6. What themes are explored in Eden Silver-Myer’s “Befriending My Brain”?
– The exhibition explores themes of neurodiversity and personal acceptance, highlighting the artist’s journey towards understanding her mind.

7. What subjects does Clive Wright focus on in his paintings?
– Clive Wright’s paintings often depict ordinary events such as people in coffee shops and individuals receiving COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as broader global phenomena.

8. How many paintings are featured in Clive Wright’s “Shouting Quietly”?
– The exhibition features over 500 captivating paintings by Clive Wright.

9. What can visitors expect from the Didcot Dairy Story exhibition?
– Visitors can expect to see a collection of artifacts, photographs, and cherished memories showcasing the legacy of the iconic Didcot Dairy.

10. How does Cornerstone Arts Centre support community well-being?
– By offering free public access to a wide range of art and exhibitions, Cornerstone Arts Centre promotes cultural engagement and supports community well-being.

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Jazz & fizz at High Clandon

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Drink in the view and the music at Cherry Trees fundraiser at High Clandon

Join Cherry Trees charity at High Clandon for Jazz in the Vineyard on Saturday 8th June for a sparkling celebration of cool jazz.

Bring along a picnic or tuck into one of the stone-baked pizzas as you sip a complimentary glass of Gloriana Cuvée, sit back, drink in the views and chill listening to the sweet sounds of The Sue Richardson Quintet at either the matinee, 1pm start, or evening performance which begins at 6.15pm.

Your feet will tap as you celebrate the unsung heroes of jazz, led by Sue with the quintet’s feel-good show, Bird.

Feel free to take along anything else you may need to make your evening comfortable, such as tables, chairs and cushions. Why not upgrade your experience and pre-book one of the cabaret-style seats. Chairs cost £10 per person and will be spread around shared tables. This can be added to your booking when purchasing your tickets below. Tickets are £45 per person with all proceeds supporting the children and families who rely on Cherry Trees.

Cherry Trees helps to keep families together by providing home from home care for children with complex disabilities and a meaningful break for their families. Supporting children and young people up to the age of 19 with learning, physical and sensory impairments, Cherry Trees provides care after school, for a few hours, overnight or for a longer stay.

Book tickets for Jazz in Vineyard at Jazz in the Vineyard | Cherry Trees

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Alfie Boe’s Encore with Carly Paoli

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Alfie Boe will star with Carly Paoli at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre on Friday, 7th June.

When Pope Francis heard Carly Paoli, the British/Italian soprano sing her Ave Maria as the official song for his Jubilee Year of Mercy in 2016, he declared that she had, ‘the voice of an angel.’ A classical Brit nominee, lyricist and star of the classical and crossover worlds, Carly Paoli toured the UK with Aled Jones 2022.

Carly has been confirmed as a special guest on Alfie Boe’s forthcoming tour Alfie Boe – Encore at theatres around the UK this summer.

Carly and the Tony Award winning tenor, Alfie Boe first met when Alfie worked with Carly on her second TV special that is set to air later this year. With a broad repertoire to choose from, Carly’s set will include interpretations of Bridge Over Troubled Water, Time To Say Goodbye, Never Enough and O Mio Babbino Caro amongst others.

“One of the greatest joys for a performer is to work with artist they admire,” says Carly. “Aflie Boe is one of those people and I am thrilled to be appearing as his special guest on his Encore Tour.”

“One of the greatest joys for a performer is to work with artists they admire”

Carly’s star continues to shine and since bursting onto the music scene she has sung for members of the Royal Family at Windsor Castle and St James’ Palace, at the Royal Albert Hall for the Royal Variety Performance and at Carnegie Hall in New York. Following her concert at London’s Cadogan Hall, the critic David Mellor called her a ‘special talent’ under the headline “Nobody Does It Better.”

In 2016 Carly’s version of Ave Maria was heard by Pope Francis who commented that she had “the voice of an angel” and was chosen as theme for his Jubilee Year Mercy. That same year Carly hosted a very special concert Music for Mercy in Rome’s historic Roman Forum featuring Andrea Bocelli, Elaine Paige and David Foster amongst others. In 2023 Carly could be seen opening and closing Pope Francis’ concert for Humanitarian Efforts at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican which was broadcast globally to more than 55 million people.

A performer at many major sporting fixtures, in 2023, Carly was invited to sing the Italian National Anthem at the opening ceremony of the very first Ryder Cup in Rome.

With five chart topping albums to her credit Carly has performed live and recorded with some of the world’s greatest artists including Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bolton, José Carreras, David Foster, and Elaine Paige and will soon be adding Alfie Boe to that list of names! 

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The road to creativity in Hindhead

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Hindhead Art Trail takes you on a picturesque journey through both art and the artists’ lives via ceramics, landscapes, portraits and stained glass

During June’s Surrey Open Studios you will find luscious ceramics, dramatic abstract landscapes, perfect wildlife portraits, and much more from the ten artists on the Hindhead Art Trail. All works are for sale and you can even get involved in creating your own art at their workshops.

The trail is a perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon. Start in Churt with Fiona Millais’s evocative semi-abstract landscapes that respond to the local area and the coast. Across Churt village, Georgina Rey is exhibiting loose oil sketches done on site capturing the feeling of local places, alongside larger, colourful abstracts. Just up the road, see Stephanie Draper’s colourful paintings and monochrome prints inspired by maps locally and beyond. Create a small colourful block sculpture with Stephanie at her drop in sessions on 7th, 8th and 9th June.

Turning south through Whitmore Vale, find Alison Hunt’s textural, abstract landscapes in wonderful tones. They sit alongside Nicola Martin’s stoneware pottery, including signature ‘Earth Bowls’ evoking the strata between land and sea. Both artists are inspired by the colours, shapes and textures of the natural world which they interpret in their pieces.

On the road into Grayshott, visit Alison Orchard’s working studio at Applegarth Farm. Enjoy a collection of expressive sea and landscape paintings, alongside gutsy abstracts and a range of limited-edition prints. The gallery also showcases a selection of hand-thrown ceramics by respected artists. There is a lot to tempt and inspire! Alison will be running a one-day gestural seascapes workshop at Farnham Pottery on 27th June.

This might be a moment to stop for a coffee or lunch at Applegarth Farm restaurant and deli, with locally sourced and home-grown food.

Next stop Annie Child’s fused and stained glass, in her lovely oak framed garden studio on the edge of Grayshott village. Annie’s range of glass art draws on her love of colour and the beauty of the natural world around her.

In Grayshott Village, the Punchbowl Gallery hosts Angie Wallace and Nicky Chubb. Angie creates realistic artworks of wildlife, full of intricate detail in coloured pencils and pastels. Nicky paints multicoloured and textured collaged nudes from life.

Finish the trail in Beacon Hill with Emma Godden’s fantastically observed, tactile garden ornaments inspired by seed pods and flowers. Make your own at her workshop on 21st June.

Start and finish the trail where you like. Trail maps are available in each studio, details of opening times and workshops at surreyopenstudios.org.uk and Instagram (@hindheadarttrail)

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Liphook author’s novel idea

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Born a few years after the end of the Second World War in Farnham, Ed (Peter) Johnson has seen and lived through the changes, which he, in part, gives as one of the reasons he started writing

In the 1950s you were expected to be able to turn your hand to anything, which, says Ed Johnson, has contributed to his writing.

His working career has been in electronics and technology; mending a computer in 1970 was a very different experience from working with them today, he quips.

“I had the first idea when in my 30s, but I have always taken on challenges, like starting an IT business in 1981, building it up during my 40s and selling it in 1997,” he begins.

“Next was building a car, not from a kit, which I completed in my early 50s and restoring a bungalow from the ground up in my 60s. Now in my early 70s I am using the ideas that have been developing over the last 40 years and putting them into a much less strenuous use of time, I love the challenge and becoming an author is my current one.”

Now living in Liphook he has penned his first novel in which we are invited to delve into the shadowy world of crime with the revealing exploration of the criminal underworld. Beyond the notorious crime lords and the violent realm of drug trafficking, lies a complex network of theft, fraud, and borderline legal activities. Who are the masterminds behind these operations? How do they seamlessly orchestrate crimes while remaining undetected?

In everyday life, we find plumbers, electricians, and plasterers through a simple internet search or recommendations. But in the criminal fraternity, things operate differently. Fences, who trade in stolen goods, rely on a clandestine network: one group supplies the contraband, another discreetly purchases it, no questions asked.

Imagine if this underworld also had its own ‘sub-contractors’ – skilled individuals specialising in specific illegal activities, and facilitators who connect various players in this covert market. This book takes you deep into this hidden society, shedding light on how organized crime functions with the same efficiency and connectivity as legitimate businesses.

If you’ve ever been curious about the intricacies of the criminal world and its unseen yet organized culture, this is your guide to understanding how these hidden networks operate, thrive, and evade detection. But remember it is only fiction – or is it?

Why Am I Here? Jane’s Story by Ed Johnson is published by Austin Macaulay Publishers ISBN  9781035810000 is available from Amazon and all good bookshops.

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Oxford honors Windrush Women with festivities

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An exciting series of events marks Windrush Day 2024 in Oxford from Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd June.

The theme of this year’s celebrations is ‘Women of the Windrush’. Traditionally, the focus has been on the men who disembarked from the Windrush ship, but this year’s festival will highlight the female arrivals, their stories, and their voices.

This marks the 5th year that Windrush Day has been officially celebrated in the city and the 76th anniversary of the HMT Windrush arriving at Tilbury Docks in Britain. While many passengers settled in large cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool, a number came to Oxford and built homes here. Over time, individuals and community organizations has established networks, advocated for equal rights and opportunities, and made significant contributions to the city, enriching its cultural life. Many of these organizations and networks have been initiated and led by women.

Euton Daley of the Oxford Windrush Working Group says, “Women of the Windrush Generation have made a huge contribution to communities around the UK, and Oxford is not the least of these. They have made their mark on the city and helped create its modern identity. It’s their voices we hear daily in social interactions in hospitals, shops, community centres, schools, and churches. This Windrush Day we are celebrating them, and everything they’ve achieved.”

An artist is being commissioned to work with Oxford’s young people over the school May half-term holiday at the Pitt Rivers Museum and other locations, as well as over the festival weekend at Florence Park. Sessions will also take place at local primary schools and with the Black Excellence Project Saturday group. Many organizations and individuals have come together to create this programme of events for local communities to get involved, share stories, learn new skills, and have fun.

This year’s events have been made possible thanks to a share of £500,000 in funding from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, administered by Near Neighbours.

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The Dolphin, award-winning pub

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The Dolphin recently picked up Greene King’s Community Pub of the Year for its excellent range of events and community initiatives, landlady Emma Cox shares her delight

To me the pub trade isn’t just about selling alcohol it’s about being an all-inclusive base where everyone can come together. For celebration, commiserations, for support through the high times and the low times.

I’ve been at The Dolphin working since I was 13 as a cleaner to start off with and my parents became managers when I was 16 so I’ve watched the trade change over the years.

I love Wallingford and we are in a position to give back some of the support we have been shown over the years. When lockdown happened I noticed there was so much more we could do. So many customer didn’t return through fear of covid that we started doing food parcels, prescription runs, phone calls for company, which lead to us getting involved in the different community centres.

The reason I do it is simple. If the shoe was on the other foot or one of my family or friends are in need I’d really hope somebody would be there to help – one of my mottos is ‘it’s nice to be nice!”

I love the kids eat free, my daughter Annie is six. She struggled socially for a long time after lockdown. I think social skills build such a great confidence in our children and that’s so important.

Winning the award is probably one of my greatest career achievements so far! But, it’s not just me. There’s a whole team of amazing people that work at The Dolly who go above and beyond everyday. And we couldn’t do what we do without each other.

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Be a puppy parent

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Petersfield based charity Hounds for Heroes needs your support. Could you be a full-time volunteer and look after puppies in training?

Volunteering to be a puppy parent is a rewarding opportunity to become part of the Hounds for Heroes team and provide puppies with the training and care crucial for their development to become a life enhancing assistance dog.

Don’t want to read the full article? Jump to our FAQs here or enter this month’s competitions FOR FREE!

Prior experience or qualifications aren’t required, but a willingness to learn and meet certain criteria is necessary. The ongoing support and training provided by Hounds for Heroes ensures that volunteers are equipped to care for the puppies effectively.

The commitment involved, from opening up your home to a puppy for over a year to attending training sessions and classes, highlights the dedication required for this role. However, knowing that you’re contributing to the journey of these assistance dogs makes it a worthwhile endeavour.

Hounds for Heroes covers the costs of food, training equipment, and veterinary bills for the puppies.

Volunteering with Hounds for Heroes is not only beneficial for the assistance dogs but also for the individuals who will eventually benefit from their support.

Hounds for Heroes works to provide specially trained assistance dogs to injured and disabled personnel of both HM Armed Forces and emergency services. We aim to provide help and practical support leading to an enhanced quality of life.

Hounds for Heroes assistance dogs can help overcome some of the physical barriers and obstacles caused by a disability; promoting an increased sense of freedom, providing a loyal comrade and just maybe the beginning of a new lease of life.

Hounds for Heroes believe that everyone who fits out criteria, and requires the services of one of our dogs, should be able to experience the positive and life enhancing impact they will bring. The cost of the assistance dog’s food, equipment, insurance and veterinary costs are all met by Hounds for Heroes’ therefore you can safely apply knowing that in having one of our dogs, there will not be a negative impact on your existing income.

As of 2021, there are over 900,000 injured servicemen and women in the country and that number continues to grow on a daily basis. The unique mental attitude of service personnel means that only a handful so far have chosen to have an assistance dog provided by the civilian offerings, many will battle on in silence.

Find out more about their work and to register your interest in becoming a Puppy Parent visit Homepage | Hounds for Heroes

FAQs

1. How do I get in touch with Hounds for Heroes?
– You can email [email protected] or call 01730 823118  Mon – Fri 8.30am – 4pm

2. How do I apply for a dog?
– For enquires regarding applying for one a dog please contact: [email protected]

3. How do I volunteer?
– If you are interested in becoming a Puppy Parent or Foster Puppy Parent please contact: [email protected]m or if you are interested in general volunteering opportunities please contact: [email protected]

4. How do I find Hounds for Heroes?
– Hounds for Heroes, Unit 2B Rookery Farm Buildings, Ramsdean, Petersfield, Hampshire GU32 1RU

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Breaking bard with Chiltern Shakespeare Company

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Enjoy The Comedy Of Errors thanks to the Chiltern Shakespeare Company this month at Hall Barn in Beaconsfield

Chiltern Shakespeare Company was founded in 1986 by Michael and Aviva Wiseman, residents of Beaconsfield who were prominently involved in local theatrical activities.

Their mission, to the this day, is to deliver the Bard’s plays featuring some of the finest amateur local actors, and to encourage children to participate in plays, bringing the sometimes dry study of the text at school to life.

From its early productions in a Beaconsfield school hall the company graduated in 1989 to the lovely open air setting of Hall Barn, a stately home on the outskirts of Beaconsfield, by kind permission of the Burnham family.

The company celebrated their 20th summer season at Hall Barn in 2008 with their third production or A Midsummer’s Night Dream, followed in 2009 by Romeo & Juliet. In total CSC has now staged 28 productions, including the majority in the open air at Hall Barn.

A further key objective of the company was – and remains – the raising of funds for selected charities from any surplus funds generated by their productions. This is made by the efforts of the company’s members who give so much of their free time (no one is paid at all) and the generosity of Hall Barn’s owners who continue to host the events on such favourable terms. A performance at Hall Barn is made complete by booking a delicious picnic (with or without prosecco) to enjoy before the play in the glorious grounds.

The Comedy of Errors tells the story of two sets of identical twins separated at birth. Antipholus and Dromio (both from Syracuse), arrive in Ephesus, unknowingly the home of their identical twin brothers (also named Antipholus and Dromio). Hilarity ensues as mistaken identities lead to confusion, accusations, and romantic entanglements. Through a series of misunderstandings, the twins and their servants create chaos until a final reunion brings everything to a happy end.

There will be 10 performances on the evenings of Wednesday 5th, Thursday 6th, Friday 7th and Saturday 8th June plus a matinee on Saturday 8th, the Wednesday 12th, Thursday 13th, Friday 14th, Saturday 15th and again a matinee on Saturday 15th. Evening performances start at 7.45pm with the matinees at 1.45pm.

There are a range of tickets from £15-£25 depending on your chosen performance and age. Concessions are available for over-65s and students in full-time education on Wednesday performances and on both matinees.

All proceeds will go to The Ducklings Trust, a charity set up to raise money for equipment and help improve the environment in the maternity units at Stoke Mandeville and Wycombe. This fundraising continues to help ensure the units are the best birth environment they can be for families and staff.

As well as organising fundraising events, contributions from the public are very welcome. To find out about The Ducklings Trust please visit The Ducklings Trust

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