Author: Round & About

Liz Nicholls chats to radio presenter Scott Mills who stars in Jack and the Beanstalk, this year’s Wycombe Swan pantomime

Q. This isn’t your first rodeo, is it? It’s your third panto! “Yes, it was Vernon Kay who got me into it actually. He said, ‘Honestly, this is right up your street. You’re going to love it.’ I was sceptical at first because it’s not in my comfort zone – you have to act and sing and do things that terrify me! But I like to push myself. That’s why I did Strictly Come Dancing and Race Across the World last year – and we won! I did Leicester first, which was terrifying, then Swansea, and now here we are again. Third time lucky.” 

Q. You mentioned singing – how’s that going? “They do make me sing! Including a solo song. I’ve had a couple of singing lessons and I think I’ll be better this year.” 

Q. What do you love most about Christmas at home? “We go early because my husband Sam is so into Christmas. I like it, but he absolutely loves it. So, I’ll come home from the radio show one day in November and it’ll be like a winter wonderland. Even his mum comes down to do the tree – it’s serious business.” 

Q. What about Christmas food? “No, Sam loves cooking. I’ll just be enjoying it! Only one day off from panto, so I make the most of it.” 

Q. You’ve mentioned performing doesn’t come naturally to you… “Yeah, I was a shy kid growing up in Southampton. That kid wouldn’t believe it if he saw me now, on stage! I’m not a naturally confident person. A lot of radio presenters are introverts. DJing live doesn’t scare me because I’ve done that for years, but acting, singing… that’s another level. People say ‘Oh, it’s only panto,’ but you’re part of a team, and you don’t want to be the one letting everyone down.” 

Q. How did you get the hang of learning lines? “In my first year I really struggled. I rang [EastEnders star] Natalie Cassidy and said ‘Help me!’ She told me to write the lines out by hand, and that really worked. In Leicester I was hopeless, but I hope to match Mark from A1 and LaVoix this year and be great!” 

Q. It’s a superb cast! Who are your dream panto co-stars? “I’ve always wanted to work with a drag act because they’re hilarious, a bit vicious and I love that humour. La Voix is brilliant – I’ve followed her since RuPaul’s Drag Race. I also love the panto legends Brian Conley and Julian Clary.” 

Q. What’s your first memory of music? “Definitely radio. I pretended to be on Radio 1 as a kid. First album: Michael Jackson’s Thriller. By age 11, DJing in local social clubs. At 12, I joined hospital radio – I’ve basically been on air all my life!” 

Q. If I could give you some magic beans, what would you wish for? “I wish everyone could taste how delicious Taylor Swift’s sourdough bread is! She brought me some last week. I’ve met a few people who get her bread delivered, including Stanley Tucci and Channing Tatum. She bakes because she can’t really leave the house, but her bread is so so good.” 

Q. You’ve had incredible guests on your Radio 2 Breakfast Show. Ever been starstruck? “I met Bruce Springsteen yesterday. I was so nervous! He’s one of the few surviving rock idols. I’m a pop boy really, but I’ve got so much respect for him. His new biopic is incredible, parts of it are quite dark.” 

Q. Who are your dream interviewees for 2026? “Madonna. She’s top of the list. I always thought it would never be possible, but she’s started doing interviews again. Apparently, she can be tricky, but I’ve done Harrison Ford – he was… tough – so I think I can handle Madonna! We’ve had some amazing guests this year; Austin Butler, Ncuti Gatwa. I just want to make the Breakfast Show even bigger and better.” 

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)

The early December Full Moon illuminates distant horizons, calling you toward journeys that may expand your mind and spirit. Mercury’s entry into Sagittarius whispers of fresh ideas and encounters, perhaps inspiring plans that stretch beyond the familiar. Around the 14th, this Mars– Neptune moment carries a veil-like quality; trust your instincts, but let the fog lift before acting, particularly in matters of the heart or ambition. Mars stirring your career sector from the 15th brings quiet momentum, nudging you toward achievements that feel both earned and thrilling. The New Moon on the 19th may encourage travel with loved ones or an internal journey of reflection. As Sun and Venus shine in Capricorn from the 21st, the year’s end offers recognition and a satisfying sense of completion, leaving you feeling quietly triumphant yet reflective.

Tarot: The Chariot — Momentum is yours, but the journey asks for mindful focus. Push forward, yet stay aware of detours or illusions. Victory comes through balance of inner will and external circumstances.

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

December calls attention to security, resources, and the subtle threads that tie your world together. The Full Moon on the 4th illuminates shared finances or emotional investments, offering a moment to sense where stability truly lies. Mercury in Sagittarius from the 11th encourages reflection and seeking guidance, whether through trusted advisors or intuition. Mars entering your 9th house from the 15th opens pathways for learning or travel that resonate deeply, each step stirring curiosity and subtle excitement. The New Moon on the 19th hints at gifts, bonuses, or unlooked-for generosity, a reminder that abundance can arrive in unexpected forms. Sun and Venus in Capricorn from the 21st warm the closing weeks of the year, encouraging a grounding of pleasures and comfort. Mars– Neptune energy near Christmas Eve invites discernment; act with patience and heart.

Tarot: Six of Pentacles – Flow of giving and receiving, balance and generosity. Wealth and emotional abundance appear when awareness and care guide your actions.

Gemini (May 21–June 20)

Connections shimmer in early December, inviting dialogue that may open doors to emotional depth. The Full Moon on the 4th highlights boundaries, encouraging honesty with both yourself and others. Mercury in Sagittarius from the 11th empowers discussion and reflection, while the Mercury–Pluto sextile on the 13th hints at transformative conversations that touch the core of relationships. Mars in Capricorn from the 15th channels focus into practical ambitions, making space for both financial and personal growth. The New Moon on the 19th may herald new partnerships, romantic, business, or collaborative that feel aligned with your path. Mars–Neptune energy reminds you to listen to subtle cues and let intuition guide decisions.

Tarot: Two of Cups — Emotional alignment and harmony, offering connection and mutual understanding. Relationships can deepen when hearts are open and intentions clear.

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

December hums with activity, yet fleeting moments of stillness are essential. The Full Moon on the 4th encourages reflection, grounding, and reclaiming your inner space before the month’s demands resume. Mercury in Sagittarius guides your communication and planning, often behind the scenes, while Mars in Capricorn from the 15th energises leadership and purposeful action. The New Moon on the 19th may bring recognition or reward for diligent effort, a nod to the care you invest in work and loved ones. Sun and Venus in the relationship zone from the 21st invite warmth, comfort, and shared joy, reminding you that giving to others is most fulfilling when balanced with self-nurturing. Mars–Neptune energy suggests patience and sensitivity; act with your intuition.

Tarot: The Empress — Abundance and care, a reminder that nurturing yourself is as vital as nurturing others. Creativity and comfort flourish when attention is turned inward as well as outward.

Leo (July 23–August 22)

Romance, celebration, and creative expression glow under the December skies. The Full Moon on the 4th stirs social energy, highlighting moments of connection that feel both thrilling and illuminating. Mercury in Sagittarius from the 11th sharpens communication, allowing heartfelt expression to bridge gaps. Mars in the 6th house from the 15th motivates practical completion of work and personal projects. The New Moon on the 19th offers opportunities for love or creative beginnings that feel aligned with your spirit. Mars–Neptune energy on the 20th suggests moderation; trust subtle guidance rather than impulses. Sun and Venus joining Mars from the 21st illuminate recognition and festive celebration, offering a golden glow to achievements and personal expression.

Tarot: The Sun — Vitality, clarity, and joy. Radiance attracts opportunity and affection, yet true fulfilment flows from aligning external success with your inner light.

Virgo (August 23–September 22)

Home, family, and intimate spaces pulse with energy and purpose. The Full Moon on the 4th may bring resolution in career or personal projects, offering a sense of closure and release. Mercury opposing Uranus could spark tension, but Mars–Neptune energy encourages listening beyond surface conflict and trusting intuition. Mars in your love sector from the 15th warms emotional and creative passions, while the New Moon on the 19th heralds beginnings in personal life or home matters. Sun and Venus in Capricorn from the 21st bless domestic joy, inviting festive harmony and intimate celebration.

Tarot: Four of Wands — Stability, milestones, and shared joy. Personal and domestic achievements bring deep satisfaction, illuminated through connection and presence.

Libra (September 23–October 22)

December carries a rhythm of movement, errands, and communication. The Full Moon on the 4th may highlight short journeys or meaningful travel, offering a pause to reflect on relationships and responsibilities. Mercury in Sagittarius from the 11th smooths dialogue and quick planning, while Mars in the domestic sector from the 15th draws energy homeward. The New Moon on the 19th is ripe for invitations, planning, and festive beginnings. Sun and Venus in the 4th house from the 21st enhance domestic gatherings and familial warmth. Mars–Neptune energy near Christmas Eve suggests patience; subtle miscommunications may arise, and gentle discernment will guide you.

Tarot: Temperance — Balance, blending, and harmony. Moderate approaches bring resolution and serenity in interactions, guiding shared moments with care and mindfulness.

Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

Financial focus and subtle currents illuminate the month. The Full Moon on the 4th asks you to consider what must be released or reorganised. Mercury in Sagittarius from the 11th opens doors for inspired planning, while Mars in Capricorn from the 15th energises movement, travel, and tangible action. The New Moon on the 19th may herald unexpected gifts, bonuses, or opportunities, blending the practical with the unseen. Sun and Venus in Capricorn from the 21st offer steady support, helping you navigate both ambition and intuition. Mars–Neptune energy invites quiet listening and discernment, particularly in financial or emotional decisions.

Tarot: Ace of Pentacles — Opportunities for growth and reward. Prosperity aligns when insight and
practical action work together, creating a foundation for lasting security.

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

Your personal expression, relationships, and presence shimmer under December skies. The Full Moon on the 4th highlights connection, while Mercury in your sign from the 11th empowers honest communication. Mars in Capricorn from the 15th channels ambition and effort, while the New Moon on the 19th offers subtle opportunities for personal reinvention. Sun and Venus in your money sector from the 21st provide grounding and support for both financial and emotional matters. Mars–Neptune’s fog suggests reflection and inner guidance over impulsive action.

Tarot: Knight of Wands — Courage, bold action, and inspired pursuit. Movement and initiative bring adventure, yet the heart must guide the way to avoid hasty mistakes.

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

The cosmos hums behind the scenes, supporting quiet but effective effort. The Full Moon on the 4th illuminates tasks needing closure, while Mercury in Sagittarius from the 11th reveals hidden truths or insights. Mars in your sign from the 15th energises determination, giving you the stamina to complete pressing matters. The New Moon on the 19th suggests gentle self-care and introspection. Sun enters your sign on the 21st, followed by Venus on the 24th, bathing you in recognition and personal illumination. Mars–Neptune energy encourages acting from intuition rather than haste.

Tarot: The Magician — Skill, intention, and manifestation. Alignment of thought, heart, and action
transforms possibility into tangible reality.

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

Friendship, connection, and celebration pulse through your December. The Full Moon on the 4th favours social and romantic gatherings, while Mercury in Sagittarius from the 11th smooths dialogue and shared plans. Mars in your unseen sector from the 15th offers reflective energy, encouraging balance after active social weeks. The New Moon on the 19th may highlight key personal or social opportunities. Sun and Venus in Capricorn from the 21st favour intimate, quiet celebrations, allowing deep connection amidst holiday bustle. Mars–Neptune’s veil suggests pacing and listening to subtle currents.

Tarot: Three of Cups — Joy, celebration, and shared warmth. Emotional resonance flows through friendships and kinship; connection and laughter bring emotional nourishment.

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Career, visibility, and intuition intertwine this month. The Full Moon on the 4th encourages completing tasks and recognising accomplishments. Neptune stations direct on the 10th, heightening creativity and insight. Mercury on the 11th lends persuasive power, while the New Moon on the 19th may open career or personal opportunities. Sun and Venus in Capricorn from the 21st illuminate festive gatherings and social energy. Mars–Neptune’s fog invites reflection and inspiration; trust your intuition before acting.

Tarot: The Star — Renewal, hope, and guidance. Creative inspiration and spiritual insight illuminate the path; alignment with dreams and vision opens doors to growth and fulfilment.

Shop local and show your support and join the celebration of our independent traders on December 6th

Small businesses are the cornerstone of our communities, from plumbers to publicans, shopkeepers to solicitors, they help grow our economies and our lives.

Small Business Saturday – this year on December 6th – is the UK’s most successful small business campaign. Over the decade it has been running in the UK it has engaged millions of people and seen milions of pounds spent with local retailers and trades across the UK on the day, with an impact that lasts all year round and you can help make that difference.

There are around five and a half million small firms in this country which continue to face an array of economic challenges. As Michelle Ovens, Director of Small Business Saturday says: “Small businesses are the nation’s favourite businesses – bringing immeasurable value to our local communities and powering the wider economy.

“From family-run cafés and local restaurants, to independent makers, services and traders, public support makes all the difference as independent firms enter their most critical quarter of the year.”

Supporting small businesses helps to:

create jobs locally

contribute to the character of your neighbourhood

offer unique products and services

provide a higher level of customer service

prioritise sustainability & environmental benefits

On Small Business Saturday, customers are encouraged to go out and support all types from independent shops and restaurants, to small service and b2b businesses like accountants and electricians. Many much-loved indies take an active role in promoting the day by hosting events and offering promotions.