Flocking to Fleet

Round & About

Your eyes aren’t deceiving ewe, there really are sheep in clothing on Fleet roundabout thanks to Sue Ashwood

When Sue Ashwood started decorating wooden sheep on a roundabout in Fleet she just wanted to help cheer people up during Covid, little did she know what it would lead to. 

Now more than five years later the roundabout on the A3013 has been named Roundabout of the Year for 2026 by UKRAS, the UK Roundabout Appreciation Society. 

Sue was making masks for her family and friends and decided the sheep needed some too and began putting the protective facewear on the creatures as a way to spread the ‘stay safe’ message and to put smiles on people’s faces. 

And from that she started creating costumes for the sheep to wear. She now has more than 3,900 followers flocking to her Facebook page (4 Sheep’s Sake) and has raised more than £5,000 for charity and local good causes and has put together a calendar featuring the sheep. 

To date they have worn eye patches for Children in Need, Easter bonnets, Remembrance Day poppies, bras to mark Breast Cancer awareness, summer outfits for the heatwave, had cones on their heads and hi-vis jackets when roadworks were being carried out on Cove Road and rainbow umbrella hats and wellies to coincide with April showers among any other colourful clothes. “The naughty elves last December made people laugh, Fleet Christmas lights on the high street made TV and national papers as they looked like underpants. So those elves put up a line of Y fronts on the roundabout as bunting,” she quips. 

Sue admits to having thought about giving up especially after they were vandalised and went missing. She says: “My family and husband Paul think I’m crazy but love it. They get frustrated as I do when things go missing or are damaged. Several times I have thought about giving up.   

“My great niece Daisy was born during Covid, so thinks it’s perfectly normal for the sheep to be decorated by your auntie. In the early days I tried to stay under the radar and was likened to Banksy, but there is no way I would go onto the roundabout after dark. I generally go out after 9am to avoid the rush hour.” 

What can ewe expect to see them wearing in 2026? “We have several new themes coming up in 2026….Ewe need to watch out! People and organisations have approached me for new themes, which is lovely. But I do ask for help putting it together or a donation towards our wardrobe fund.” But don’t worry, Sue won’t fleece ewe! 

Come as you are!

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On Saturday 31st January, Wooburn Singers will welcome singers of all abilities to a Come & Sing day at The Beaconsfield School

Whether you belong to a local choir or simply enjoy singing independently, this is a wonderful chance to spend a day immersed in choral music, meet like-minded enthusiasts, and enjoy the camaraderie of shared musical experience. 

The focus of the day will be two of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ most celebrated choral works: Serenade to Music and Five Mystical Songs. Participants will have the opportunity to explore these pieces in depth under the guidance of experienced musical leaders, refining technique, harmony, and expression, and bringing these masterpieces to life in a supportive and inspiring environment. 

Tickets for the day include the loan of a score if needed, plus refreshments of tea and coffee. For those looking to make a proper mid-day break, ploughman’s lunches will be available, along with the singers’ legendary selection of cakes — a perfect accompaniment to an energising day of music-making. 

This event is open to all, from experienced choristers to enthusiastic amateurs, and offers a rare chance to perform iconic works by Vaughan Williams without the commitment of joining a choir long-term. 

To secure your place and receive a booking form, email WooburnSingersComeAndSing@gmail.com 

Don’t miss this opportunity to sing, connect, and be inspired by the timeless beauty of Vaughan Williams’ music, all in the friendly atmosphere of Wooburn Singers’ “Come & Sing” day. 

Winter Wildlife

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January can be a bleak month not least for the wild life visitors looking for food and shelter

Gardening for wildlife does not mean letting the garden go wild but more thinking about habitats and food for birds, mammals, insects and amphibians as you garden. 

Be less tidy! 

One of the easiest changes to make when gardening is to think about what to do with all the herbaceous perennials you are cutting down, the pruning you are doing and leaves you are raking up. Each pile you make will eventually decompose to feed the soil and whilst doing so creates a habitat for overwintering insects, amphibians and mammals. There are structures like dead hedges which can house all your prunings and look fabulous. 

Insects and invertebrates 

Although many have ‘disappeared’ for the winter they are just in a different stage of their life cycle. Choose a selection of annuals, biennials and perennials that provide food sources all year round and colour, interest and scent for us. Create log piles and bug hotels for stag beetles, solitary bees and wasps and learn which are the pests and identify the ladybird, lacewing and hoverfly larvae as they are your biological pest control. Do not use chemical sprays! 

Birds 

Provide a range of foods for birds all year round on a bird feeder and as plants. Diverse planting will attract diverse bird species. Teasels are loved by pollinators and goldfinches whereas plants with brightly coloured berries attract blackbirds and redwings. Birds need dense vegetation for roosting and nesting. 

Mammals, amphibians and reptiles 

Hedgehogs, foxes, squirrels, rabbits, badgers, deer and bats are all regular visitors (some welcome and some not) and looking for food and shelter in your garden depending on what’s there so think about hibernating hedgehogs, consider a pond but above all create diverse habitats throughout the year but particularly in winter.  

Cathie’s Gardening School offers garden consultancies, courses and help with pruning all year round.  

cathiesgardeningschool@gmail.com 

Access-air-bility mission: air travel for all

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Surrey pilot James Boyce and co-founder Llinos Edwards are leading a national effort to make air travel more accessible

A new accessibility movement with Surrey roots is gaining national momentum. James Boyce, a Camberley-based airline pilot, and Llinos Edwards, a disability advocate with lived experience, have launched Access-air-bility (accessairbility.com): a research-driven initiative dedicated to improving air travel for people with disabilities through real stories and lived experience. 

The project began from a very personal place. James was inspired by his girlfriend, Millie Bridger, a passionate disability advocate who loves to travel, and her experiences – the joys, the challenges, and everything in between – highlighted how inconsistent and unpredictable flying can be. James began to explore the issue more deeply during his MBA, where he researched how the disability assistance service at a major UK airport could be improved. 

Around the same time, Llinos was navigating her own barriers as a passenger with lived experience of disability. Her insight brought a second vital perspective: the reality of travelling when systems fall short. Together, James and Llinos recognised that change would only come if the aviation industry truly listened to the people who use, and deliver, assisted-travel services every day. 

Access-air-bility focuses on collecting these experiences. The team is building the UK’s largest dataset of real stories from people with disabilities, those who travel with or support them, and airline and airport staff who see the system from the inside. Whether someone has a single memorable experience, a moment of excellent support, or an incident that made travel difficult, each contribution offers valuable insight into what works and what needs to change. 

The initiative has already been recognised nationally. Access-air-bility has received a grant from The Open University Creator Fund, was shortlisted in the Santander X competition, and earned a Greater London Enterprise Award for Accessible Air Travel Innovation. These milestones underline the growing momentum behind the movement. 

At its core, Access-air-bility remains local, human, and community-led. James and Llinos believe the stories shared by people across Surrey can help shape a national picture of what accessible aviation should look like: predictable, empowering, and designed with dignity in mind. 

People with lived experience of disability, those who have travelled with or supported people with disabilities, and anyone working within airlines or airports are warmly invited to share their experiences at accessairbility.com to build a fairer, more confident future for everyone who dreams of seeing the world. 

Inner calm with Eden Lane Interiors

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Life can be hectic but your home shouldn’t be, simple sensory shifts can make your home a haven of tranquillity

Without you knowing it your home speaks to you every day through the light, noise, mess and smells that are all part of normal homelife. 

Without you knowing it all these elements are affecting your wellbeing, but with a little help from Caroline from Eden Lane Interiors, it doesn’t have to be like this – your home can become a place of calm, tranquillity and joy. 

Small sensory shifts can make you and your home feel better as Caroline, who moved house during lockdown in 2020 shares. “Decorating my own home helped me through this particularly anxious time. By adding calming colours, cosy textures, and natural materials I began to rebuild a connection to nature. I also injected much-needed personality with vintage items and upcycled furniture. The impact on my overall wellbeing was significant and that sparked a real passion to help others fall in love with their homes.” 

What she calls small, sensory shifts made in a few minutes can make all the difference.  

Sight: creating visual calm 

Much of how we feel comes down to what we see when we walk into a room, visual clutter is one of the most common stress triggers. Start with one small area rather than tackling the whole house. Clear the surface, remove what you don’t use and add one item you love that will make you smile. Bring in nature, opt for warm lighting and fittings that cast light upwards. 

Touch: Add comfort through texture 

Does your home feel flat? Matching furniture may look good but the room could lack depth and interest. Layer soft furnishings by mixing cushions and throws, smooth fabrics with chunky weaves and boucles. Try a woven rug on a hard floor or carpet to add interest and try adding textured objects such as a ribbed vase. 

Sound: Tune into what you hear 

The right sounds can be calming but small irritating noises can have exactly the opposite effect. Try inviting natural sounds in such as birdsong while you work, playlists to suit your mood, white noise at night. Fix squeaky doors and dripping taps and create a quiet corner with no devices or TV to butt in. 

Scent: Create an atmosphere with fragrance 

Smell is often the first thing people notice so start simply by opening windows every day, 10 minutes of fresh air can make all the difference. Choose natural, gentle fragrances and follow the seasons, this time of year is ideal for warm spices and pine. 

Taste: Anchor your rituals 

Savouring your favourite drink or snack will bring you comfort and allow time to take in your revitalised home. 

Find the colours, layout, style and finishes that will make you fall in love with your home all over again at edenlaneinteriors.com 

Astrology & Tarot for January

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

Aries (March 21–April 19)

A combination of planets gathers at the highest point of your chart, drawing attention to purpose, direction and visibility. There is a sense of being seen. You may find yourself quietly reviewing ambitions, responsibilities and the shape your life is taking. The Full Moon offers a subtle invitation to restore balance whether through clearing physical space, tending to emotional needs, or noticing what helps you feel secure and grounded beneath everything else. Mid-month brings a softening. Connection matters more than momentum now. Time spent with a partner, friend or kindred spirit may feel nourishing, reminding you that achievement is hollow without warmth and shared presence. Around the New Moon on the 18th, something new begins to stir around work or direction. This may arrive quietly, as a conversation, an idea, or a shift in how you see your role. Allow it to reveal itself in its own time. As the month continues, your social world becomes livelier, offering distraction, inspiration and a reminder that you don’t have to carry everything alone. Towards the end of the month, Neptune opens a chapter of deepened sensitivity and intuition. Old definitions of strength may soften. The question is not what you are striving for – but what kind of life you are being asked to grow in.

Tarot: Temperance
A reminder to seek balance and harmony, blending ambition with patience, action with reflection. Perhaps now is a time to notice where moderation could help you move forward with grace.

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

A luminous gathering of planets shines in your sphere of long-distance travel and wider horizons, gently pulling your attention beyond the familiar. This month invites reflection on where you might go, and what you hope to discover along the way. Early in January, the Full Moon on the 3rd highlights shorter journeys and daily rhythms. Even a brief trip or a small change of scenery could reveal new perspectives or insights that have quietly lingered in the background. Mid-month, Venus forms harmonious alignments with the Sun and Mars, encouraging connection and pleasure, whether through a shared adventure or a simple moment of enjoyment with someone dear. Around the New Moon on the 18th, opportunities for travel or fresh experiences may emerge. Perhaps you may want to consider which journeys, literal or metaphorical, feel most nourishing and aligned with your inner compass. Later in the month, Neptune begins a long-term passage through the area of introspection, inviting reflection, imagination, and attention to what gives life meaning. Are you ready to explore the paths that expand your sense of possibility, even if they take you beyond your comfort zone?

Tarot: Page of Pentacles
A card of new beginnings, curiosity, and learning. Perhaps this month invites you to explore opportunities for growth and skill-building with an open, adventurous mind.

Gemini (May 21–June 20)

Several planets align in the area of shared resources and intimacy, quietly drawing attention to where giving and receiving shape your life. This month encourages reflection on balance, in relationships, finances, and subtle emotional exchanges that often go unnoticed. Early in January, the Full Moon on the 3rd illuminates discussions and agreements. Clarity may arise in conversations that have felt unresolved, or in moments where honesty simply cannot be ignored. Mid-month, a sweep of planets through your travel and learning sector stirs curiosity and gentle exploration. Even small trips or shifts in perspective can open unexpected doors. Around the New Moon on the 18th, practical planning and reassessment may bring insight into long-term security, prompting subtle adjustments to what you value and how you invest your energy. Later, Neptune’s long-term passage through your social and creative zone encourages deeper connections and inspiration. Which alliances quietly align with both your values and your heart?

Tarot: Three of Pentacles
A gentle prompt to collaborate, share ideas, and build on collective effort. Perhaps working with others can open new doors this month.

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

A powerful planetary alignment highlights your partnership sector, casting light on relationships, intimacy, and shared experiences. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd invites you to assert your needs with quiet confidence. Setting boundaries or expressing what matters to you can strengthen connections rather than strain them. Mid-month, Venus, the Sun, Mercury, and Mars energise your chart, opening subtle opportunities for romance, collaboration, or creative projects. Perhaps you may notice where openness and patience allow bonds to deepen naturally, without force or expectation. The New Moon on the 18th hints at fresh beginnings in love, partnership, or shared ventures. Later, Neptune’s long-term transit into the realm of your career encourages you to consider the alignment between your professional path and your inner calling. Could the relationships you nurture be quietly guiding you toward a deeper purpose that has been waiting to reveal itself?

Tarot: Four of Cups
A card that encourages reflection and awareness of emotional opportunities. Perhaps it is time to
notice what is being offered and what truly resonates with your heart.

Leo (July 23–August 22)

A luminous cluster of planets stirs the work and routine sector of your chart, drawing attention to responsibilities, daily rhythms, and the effort you invest in building your life. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd suggests a pause — a moment to rest and reflect before plunging into the busyness ahead. Mid-month, Venus, the Sun, Mercury, and Mars energise your relationships, partnerships, and collaborative projects. Perhaps you may notice where cooperation brings fulfilment, and where compromise quietly strengthens the bonds that matter most. The New Moon on the 18th may present subtle opportunities in work or vocation, encouraging thoughtful steps rather than hurried action. Later, Neptune begins a long-term passage through the area of belief, higher learning, and exploration, opening your mind to new possibilities. Could the journeys you dream of, literal or metaphorical, quietly guide you toward experiences that expand your horizons and awaken your spirit?

Tarot: The Lovers
A reminder of harmony, choice, and meaningful connection. Perhaps a partnership or decision requires alignment between your heart and your higher purpose.

Virgo (August 23–September 22)

A gentle alignment of planets brightens your sector of creativity, romance, and personal expression, inviting you to notice what brings joy and inspiration into your life. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd encourages celebration with friends or cherished companions, reminding you of the pleasure found in connection and shared laughter. Mid-month, Venus, the Sun, Mercury, and Mars energise your chart, offering a period rich in creativity and the potential for meaningful bonds. Perhaps you may sense where play, imagination, or heartfelt expression could be nurtured without expectation. The New Moon on the 18th signals openings for fresh beginnings, particularly in love or creative ventures. Later, Neptune’s long-term passage through your work and wellbeing zone invites intuition to guide your choices, helping you navigate obligations with subtle awareness. Could trusting your inner knowing quietly reshape the way you approach responsibility and opportunity?

Tarot: The Chariot
A card of forward motion, determination, and focus. Perhaps your drive and discipline this month will help you steer towards your personal goals with confidence.

Libra (September 23–October 22)

A concentration of planets illuminates your home and domestic scene, casting a gentle light on family, comfort, and emotional foundations. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd encourages reflection on how you nurture yourself and others, highlighting areas that may need attention or gentle rebalancing. Mid-month, Venus, the Sun, Mercury, and Mars stir your romance and pleasure sector, opening subtle possibilities for love, creativity, or personal enjoyment. Perhaps you may notice where connection feels nourishing and where it calls for patience or reflection. The New Moon on the 18th supports gatherings, celebrations, or fresh starts in your private sphere. Later, Neptune begins a long-term transit through the sphere of your relationships, both personal and professional, inviting deeper insight into bonds that matter. Might the connections you cultivate now be quietly shaping your sense of partnership and emotional fulfilment for years to come?

Tarot: Nine of Swords
A prompt to face worries or anxieties that may be lingering. Perhaps acknowledging these concerns will allow for deeper peace and clarity.

Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

A planetary alignment energises your travel and domestic sectors, highlighting movement, home life, and the rhythms of daily living. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd suggests journeys or minor adventures that could reveal new perspectives or insights. Mid-month, Venus, the Sun, Mercury, and Mars enliven your domestic sphere, encouraging attention to home projects, family matters, or personal space. Perhaps you may notice where creating order or beauty in your surroundings quietly restores balance. The New Moon on the 18th may bring subtle news or opportunities requiring careful observation and thoughtful action. Later, Neptune begins a long-term passage through your work zone calling for practical attention infused with intuition. Could the ways you structure your professional and creative efforts quietly shape the life you hope to build?

Tarot: Ace of Swords
A card of clarity, insight, and new perspectives. Perhaps fresh ideas or decisive action will open paths that were previously unclear.

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

Several planets gather in the realm of money and values, inviting reflection on resources, abundance, and what feels truly worthwhile. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd encourages clarity in financial matters or shared responsibilities, revealing where adjustments may be needed. Mid-month, planetary energy flows into your travel and curiosity sector, offering opportunities for short journeys, learning, or light adventure. Perhaps you may notice where exploration nourishes both your spirit and your practical needs. Around the New Moon on the 18th, subtle opportunities for earning or creative enterprise may appear, offering a quiet chance to align values and action. Later, Neptune begins a long-term transit through your love and creativity sector, inviting reflection on connection, passion, and emotional expression. Might the forms of abundance you seek extend beyond money, quietly touching your heart and imagination as well?

Tarot: Wheel of Fortune
A card of cycles, change, and unexpected opportunities. Perhaps the energies this month are nudging you toward growth and renewal.

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

A luminous gathering of planets lights up your sign, drawing attention to presence, purpose, and personal authority. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd encourages reflection on relationships, endings, and fresh beginnings, inviting clarity and gentle discernment. Mid-month, planetary energy moves through your financial sphere offering subtle openings to increase security, refine resources, or reassess priorities. Perhaps you may notice where practicality and authenticity intersect, shaping your material and emotional foundations. The New Moon on the 18th hints at personal renewal, a quiet reset in appearance, attitude, or intention. Later, Neptune enters your domestic realm for a long-term transit, drawing attention to home, family, and roots. Could the spaces you create for yourself quietly nurture the version of life you hope to live?

Tarot: Eight of Pentacles
A card highlighting dedication, mastery, and skill development. Perhaps focus and effort now will bring lasting rewards in your pursuits.

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

A powerful planetary alignment gathers in an introspective placement, encouraging quiet review of routines, self-care, and daily rhythms. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd highlights reflection on boundaries, habits, and personal energy. Mid-month, Venus, the Sun, Mercury, and Mars flow into your sign, bringing visibility, engagement, and subtle momentum. Perhaps you may notice where participation energises you and where solitude restores. The New Moon on the 18th offers a gentle opening for rest, reflection, and setting intentions for the year ahead. Later, Neptune begins a long-term passage through your communication sector, inviting imagination, intuition, and inspired ideas. Might the ways you express yourself quietly shape how your voice resonates in the world?

Tarot: Ace of Pentacles
A sign of new opportunities, prosperity, and beginnings. Perhaps a practical idea or fresh path could bring stability and growth this month.

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Several planets illuminate the area of friendship and community, encouraging connection, collaboration, and shared experiences. Early in the month, the Full Moon on the 3rd draws attention to companionship, highlighting the joy found in meaningful interactions. Mid-month, Venus, the Sun, Mercury, and Mars may draw attention to your social life prompting reflection on which alliances feel supportive and which invite subtle discernment. Perhaps you may notice where engagement brings nourishment and where rest or withdrawal is needed. The New Moon on the 18th encourages quiet gatherings, introductions, or gentle expansion of your circle. Later, Neptune enters the area of money and values for a long-term passage, offering imaginative ways to generate abundance while inviting careful grounding. Could the resources you cultivate quietly reflect both practicality and inspiration over the years ahead?

Tarot: Two of Swords
A card of choices and balance. Perhaps it is a time to weigh options carefully, trusting both intuition and reason in decision-making.


Galloping into 2026 

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The much-loved mixed Morris dancing side from East Garston is moving its weekly practices to Hungerford – and they’re inviting new dancers and musicians to join the fun.

Garston Gallopers, the lively mixed Morris dancing team from East Garston, have been stepping, hopping and sticking their way through fetes and festivals since 2009. The group first formed when a handful of villagers volunteered to learn a couple of dances for the village fête after organisers were unable to secure an experienced Morris side. What began as a one-off challenge quickly grew into a thriving team — and they haven’t stopped dancing since. 

Over the past 16 years, the Gallopers have entertained crowds at fetes, folk festivals, pubs, weddings, care homes, schools and more. Their bells have jingled far beyond West Berkshire too: the team has danced in Belgium twice, as well as at numerous events across the UK. A real highlight for 2025 was their invitation to perform at the Jane Austen Country Fair in Steventon — a prestigious event celebrating heritage and tradition, perfectly suited to the Gallopers’ spirited style. 

After years of weekly practice sessions in East Garston, January will bring a significant change: rehearsals are moving to Hungerford. The new location will be more convenient for most members, many of whom come from Hungerford and Newbury, and the team hopes the move will make it easier for newcomers to join. 

Garston Gallopers are keen to welcome fresh faces — both dancers and musicians. No previous Morris dancing experience is needed; the team promises plenty of support, good humour and a warm community spirit. Morris is not only fun, but also excellent physical and mental exercise. 

Musicians are equally encouraged to step forward, especially those who play portable instruments such as melodeon, fiddle or percussion. Familiarity with folk tunes is a bonus, but enthusiasm is the main requirement. 

When & Where Mondays, 8:00 – 9:30pm Hungerford Youth and Community Centre, Priory Road If you’re interested in giving Morris dancing a try or would like more information, please contact: 
📧 squire@garstongallopers.co.uk 

Direction from The Learning Compass

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Aiysha Khan is director of The Learning Compass, a place where learners can feel understood, supported and celebrated for who they are

A compass is designed to find direction and that’s exactly what Aiysha Khan wants to achieve with The Learning Compass. 

She aims to change not only individual lives but also “contribute to a more equitable and inclusive education system”. 

Since 2020 she has been working in a school for vulnerable children. Two years ago she was approached by a Polish-speaking mum to help her undiagnosed autistic son who was unable to speak a word of English and struggled at school. His mum and teachers were at a loss to know how to help and it was then Aiysha began thinking about how many families and children there were in the same situation. 

The Learning Compass is still in its infancy but Aiysha says: “My goal is to grow it to a community where I can offer free workshops for parents and adults in different languages about the different types of SEN and how to help their neurodivergent children. Also, there is very little information and advice in the UK in other languages about SEN and neurodiversity, which means a lot of parents and families don’t understand it and struggle to navigate the challenges within the UK education system and the workplace.  

“Non European-based languages also come with the added complexity of different cultures, where neurodiversity is still misunderstood. So I am hoping to break down these language barriers and these cultural divides to make the system more fair and inclusive.” 

The Learning Compass works by matching tutors and learners. The platform can be translated into more than 10 languages but is more than just a tutoring platform. Aiysha thinks of it as a “growing community and a resource for people whose needs are often misunderstood or ignored”. 

“We cater to all ages as it is so important to help adults and mature students who need support with interview skills, job applications, as their background, lack of English speaking skills and their SEN have put them at a disadvantage,” she adds. 

Learners create a free account to message tutors using the built-in messaging platform and stay anonymous until they are happy to give out their personal details. There is also a bulletin where learners can post their requirements and what they are looking for.  

Tutors can join for free and advertise their qualifications and services. They must have a DBS certificate and a relevant qualification. There is also a premium tutor subscription. 

“As a multilingual, neurodivergent, brown-skinned woman, I’ve seen first-hand how language and identity impact access to education. I deeply understand the frustration of not having the words to describe how your brain works, and I want to help others, both parents and learners, feel heard, understood, and supported. It is especially hard when the word ‘autism’ doesn’t even exist in your first language. It is like a whole part of your identity doesn’t exist, and no one is able to understand what you are feeling.” 

Find out more at thelearningcompass.co.uk 

Festive afternoon tea at Wotton House

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Celebrate the festive season in style in the beauty of the Surrey Hills

Countryside hotel Wotton House in the Surrey Hills has launched its new Festive Afternoon Tea as a stylish and sociable alternative to traditional Christmas parties and corporate lunches.

With hybrid working and tighter budgets shaping event decisions, the trend of scaling down or cancelling Christmas parties continues this year, leading UK companies to seek smaller, experience-driven alternatives that allow teams to celebrate without the formality or pressure of larger events.

Wotton House’s Festive Afternoon Tea offers a charming and more intimate way to mark the season, in a setting ideal for small team gatherings, client meetings, or end-of-year celebrations that focus on connection over scale.  

The menu blends classic festive flavours with a modern twist – from turkey, bacon and cranberry sandwiches to smoked salmon blinis with beetroot and dill emulsion, and freshly baked cranberry and winter citrus scones. Guests can finish with handcrafted desserts such as a mulled wine mousse, feuilletine & white chocolate present. Each element is created to be both comforting and celebratory, with the option to add a festive cocktail or a glass of local Cuvee from the Surrey Hills.

Sharon Power, Director of Sales at Wotton House, said: “We are seeing a real shift in how companies approach the festive season this year. Teams want experiences that feel more personal and relaxed – a way to celebrate together without the intensity of large-scale events. Our Festive Afternoon Tea captures that spirit perfectly by being social, indulgent, and yet intimate.”

Ideal for corporate end-of-year meet-ups, client entertaining or team celebrations, the Festive Afternoon Tea at Wotton House combines the charm of a countryside retreat with the ease of an informal event, offering a fresh approach to corporate festivities this season.

Available from November 27th to December 22nd, please contact saleslead@wottonhousehotel.co.uk to book your Festive Afternoon tea or visit the website for more information: https://wottonhouse.co.uk/  

Wolves of Wittenham

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Local author Evelyn Crosskey celebrates the spirit of Oxfordshire with a new box set of her magical Wittenham Guardians Trilogy

Step into a world where local history and folklore meet magic as Oxfordshire author Evelyn Crosskey releases The Wittenham Guardians Trilogy box set – the perfect Christmas gift for lovers of myth, mystery and the English countryside.

Set against the iconic backdrop of Wittenham Clumps, Evelyn’s trilogy intertwines ancient legend with modern adventure, drawing inspiration from the rolling hills, Iron Age fort, and whispered tales of this much-loved local landmark. The stories follow a cast of compelling characters who uncover the secrets of the Clumps — guardians who walk between worlds, protecting the land’s deep-rooted magic.

Evelyn, who lives locally, says the series grew from her fascination with the area’s timeless beauty and its layers of history. “There’s something profoundly spiritual about the Clumps,” she explains. “When you walk there at sunrise or dusk, you can almost feel the echoes of the past — the stories waiting to be told.”

In celebration of the trilogy’s success, Evelyn has launched a beautifully presented box set edition, making it an ideal festive gift. Readers can shop directly at www.theguardiansofwittenhamclumps.co.uk

You can also meet Evelyn and explore her books in person at festive events across the county, including The Earth Trust Christmas Market in Little Wittenham (5–6 December).

Enchanting, atmospheric, and deeply rooted in place, The Wittenham Guardians Trilogy offers a magical escape that feels both ancient and new – a perfect winter’s read for dreamers and believers alike.