Fantastic Fleet Christmas Festival

Round & About

Fleet Christmas Festival is on Wednesday, 26th November, and each year it gets better and better, Sue Tilley tells us what’s in store

There are so many reasons not to miss the biggest and most magical event in Fleet. So, what’s happening this year? 

Open to absolutely everyone from noon–9pm, and located along the whole length of Fleet high street (as well as in Hart Shopping Centre, Gurkha Square and The Harlington), this huge festival really has something for all ages, including:  

The switching on of the beautiful Christmas tree lights in Gurkha Square 

A truly enormous Christmas Market in the high street with over 100 stalls selling festive food, drink & gifts – think mulled wine, chestnuts, hot chocolate, sweets and every street food you can imagine! 

Brilliant street entertainment with stilt walking angels, bubblers and much, much more 

A live stage with carols sung by local school children and performances from our very own local panto cast – this year’s panto is Rapunzel and tickets are available via The Harlington Box Office at theharlington.co.uk 

Lovely local charity/community stalls, a live nativity, mobile farm and more in Gurkha Square 

Santa’s Grotto (with welcoming elves) in The Harlington 

A very special Kids’ Zone in The Harlington with crafts, activities & bouncy Snow Globe! 

A thrill packed funfair in the car park of the Emporium Pub 

Santa’s very special Post Office (where elves will help youngsters write and post their lists to the Big Man!), a fun and festive Hart of Craftmarket, plus other games, music and attractions in Hart Shopping Centre. 

This really marks the start of the festive season and brings the spirit of Christmas alive!  

This huge event is run by a small group of local volunteers, working with Fleet Town Council.  

“There’s something really special about having our festival right in the heart of Fleet” says Janet, Chairman of the Festival Committee, “it brings our community together with lights, laughter, and the magic of the season — a joyful start to the most wonderful time of the year! We are so grateful for the support of the wonderful local businesses and organisations, who sponsor this great event, and, of course, to the many thousands of people who come along to enjoy all the fun on offer! Do come and join us!” 

Follow our website fleetchristmasfestival.org for regularly updated information on all that will be happening. 

Holly Scott celebrates double award 

Round & About

Well done to local interior designer Holly Scott who has scooped two national awards and is sharing her creative home truths in Benson on 7th November and beyond 

Benson-based interior designer Holly Scott is celebrating double success after winning two silver awards at the prestigious Best Businesswomen Awards 2025. 
 
Founder of Holly Scott Interior Design, Holly was honoured for Best Customer Service and Best Creative Business, recognising her commitment to creating stylish, functional homes that reflect her clients’ personalities and lifestyles. 
 
Known as “The Happy Home Designer”, Holly brings a luxury yet approachable touch to every project, drawing on her background working with top brands including Harrods, Ralph Lauren and Harvey Nichols. “These awards celebrate creativity, resilience and customer care – all values that sit at the heart of what I do,” she says. “I’m incredibly proud to see my passion for helping people create homes they love being recognised at a national level.” The Best Businesswomen Awards, now in their 11th year, celebrate the UK’s female entrepreneurs. Winners are selected by an expert panel for their innovation, leadership and commitment to excellence. 
 
Locals will have a chance to meet Holly and hear more about her work at an event at her own home on Thursday, 7th November, where she’ll share her design tips and creative process. There will also be more opportunities to connect and find out how thoughtful design can transform your home.  
 

Visit hollyscottinterior design.co.uk where you can also download free tips for your own happy home.  

Oxford’s buzzing community spirit 

Round & About

We chat to Matt Sage & Jessica Howie, founders of Wild Honey 

Q. Hello! How long have you lived in Oxford? “For 30+ years. I founded the city’s performance space, The Catweazle Club, in 1994. I’m a musician, my wife Jessica is a dancer. We’re both passionate about community.”  

Q. How was Wild Honey born? “When we got together, we felt there was a lack of vibrant health food stores in Oxford, and so – with no previous experience – in 2014, we took over the old Inner Bookshop, in Magdalen Road, east Oxford and opened the first Wild Honey. We were one of the first businesses instrumental in creating the wonderful, rich independent foodie hub into which it has now grown. Our first Wild Honey quickly proved a real love for what we offer: a carefully curated cave of treasures of healthy food, organic produce, supplements, vitamins, skincare, lovely things for the home, gifts and treats, plus everything for the weekly shop. There was really nothing else like it. We’ve since opened two more: one in South Parade in Summertown, and one in Little Clarendon Street. All shops are deeply embedded in the local communities and champion local, ethical, and organic produce.” 

Q. Why should we all shop locally? “As well as being passionate about health and local community, we also care deeply about the concept of local economy. When someone spends £5 with a local, independent business such as ourselves, we can pay the carpenter, who can pay the window cleaner, who can pay the café owner; round and round it goes. That fiver stays in the community. When you spend it in one of the big multi-chain stores, that £5 disappears from the local community forever. So for me, shopping with local independents is a small, simple and hugely revolutionary act! I support local businesses all the time, not to mention the producers, growers and makers we go out of our way to source and sell in our shops. We sell locally made bread, cheese, fruit and veg, candles, soap, skincare, cards. The list goes on and on. We want to be a part of meaningful change in our local environment.” 

Q. What are your favourite local pubs or restaurants? “I love Oli’s Thai, Arbequina and The Magdalen Arms: all fantastic, local, independent businesses. We’re friends with the owners, and we all support each others’ businesses. It is a thriving, healthy ecosystem.” 

Q. What highlights are you looking forward to later this year? “It’s hard work, but we love Christmas time at Wild Honey: it’s all so sparkly and cosy!” 

Q. What do you most love about where you live? “The strong sense of being a part of – and at the heart of – community.”  

 wildhoneylove.com & @wildhoneylove 

Veggie pies that fool meat-eaters 

Round & About

Autumn is here, which means it’s pie time! Squeaky Bean’s new plant-based pies are here – and you won’t believe they’re meat-free! 

If autumn had a flavour, it might just be pie. And this season, Squeaky Bean’s new plant-based range proves that comfort food can be both hearty and meat-free – without anyone even noticing. 

When I served these new pies for dinner (without mentioning the lack of meat), my boyfriend happily tucked in, declared it “really good”, and went back for seconds. Only after he’d cleared his plate did I reveal that both pies — the Braised Veggie Pie and Spanish Chorizo Style Pie — were completely plant-based. Cue a raised eyebrow and a very surprised, “Wait, really?” 

And honestly, I don’t blame him. These pies are rich, flaky, and deeply satisfying. The Braised Veggie Pie combines a medley of naturally fermented vegetables in a rich ale gravy, wrapped in shortcrust pastry and topped with golden puff. It’s hearty, savoury and full of that comforting “Sunday dinner” depth. 

The Spanish Chorizo Style Pie brings a bolder, punchier flavour. Packed with butter beans, courgettes, and smoky fermented vegetables, it has all the warmth of traditional chorizo – minus the meat. The fermentation adds a subtle tang and umami hit that keeps each bite interesting. 

Both pies are easy to heat and make an effortless centrepiece with mash and greens. They’re proof that Squeaky Bean’s knack for texture and taste extends beyond their successful chicken style pieces and Bacon Strips — these are proper, pull-up-your-chair comfort foods. 

At £3.75 each (available now at Tesco), they’re a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy a plant-based twist on an autumn classic. And if my dinner experiment is anything to go by, even the most devoted carnivores might not guess the difference. 

Whether it’s a midweek meal or the centrepiece of a plant-based roast, these pies are easy to prepare—just pop them in the oven and serve with mash and steamed veggies.  

Katie Atkin, brand manager at Oxfordshire business Squeaky Bean, says: “Our pies are packed with familiar meaty textures without compromising on taste, celebrating bold flavours and gut-friendly ingredients in every bite.” 

Squeaky Bean continues to show that plant-based food can be tasty, indulgent, and easy to enjoy. With these pies, you get all the comfort of a classic autumn dish without any compromise – and, in our testing, even meat-eaters won’t suspect a thing. 

Maddy Prior star Q&A  

Round & About

Steeleye Span star in Farnham, Wantage & more in November & December. We chat to folk music superstar Maddy Prior 

Few bands can boast a career as enduring and influential as Steeleye Span. Together for an astonishing 56 years, the group transformed the face of folk music, taking it from village halls into the realms of gold discs, international tours, and mainstream recognition. Now, the legendary outfit are back with Conflict – their first full studio album in over five years – and a major UK tour to celebrate. 

The tour will feature the current line-up, led as ever by the inimitable Maddy Prior, alongside Andrew Sinclair, Roger Carey, Liam Genockey, Julian Littman, and recent recruit Athena Octavia. A member of indie folk band Iris & Steel and a classically trained violinist, Athena brings both youthful energy and technical brilliance to the ensemble. Fans can expect a rich setlist that journeys through Steeleye’s vast back catalogue, mixing classics and fan favourites with brand new songs from Conflict

Liz Nicholls chats to Maddy Prior… 

Hello Maddy! What can audiences expect from this tour? “We’ll be performing from our new album Conflict, but we always revisit our back catalogue which is vast. We mix it up with songs people might not have heard for a while – it keeps life interesting.” 

Q: Conflict is a very apt title. Can you tell us more about the album? 
Maddy: When we first thought of it, it became more relevant as time went on. Some songs are about war, some about our conflict with the planet and our place in it. We’re distracted by war from what might be the more important issue. Although, the world has always been “coming to an end” — let’s hope it’s just another story of that and not the real thing! 

Q. You often explore darker themes in your songs. Why do you think that is? “I think of the songs as meditations. We all have dark corners in our minds. They usually stay there, thankfully, though sometimes they burst out into the world, which can be confusing. Singing about these reduces stigma, shines sunlight into those corners and removes the shame.” 

Q. What’s your first memory of music? “Singing My Bow-legged Chicken, aged about eight or nine, in a Saturday matinee. The audience cheered for me – so I kept singing!” 

Q. Have you ever been starstruck? “Quite a few times. We worked with David Bowie once, when he came to play saxophone in the studio. He arrived with a small entourage, was utterly gracious and did exactly what was needed. He didn’t disappoint at all – he was delightful.” 

Q. Which artists influenced you when you were young? “Joan Baez, Bob Dylan – though I almost missed him! The first time I heard Dylan was in a record shop on a rainy day. At first, we thought ‘oh no, this guy…’ but then A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall came on, and we were floored. If it hadn’t been raining, we might have walked out and I’d have passed him by.” 

Q. What’s your favourite of own albums? “Probably Parcel of Rogues. By then we’d begun to establish what we were; that ’70s line-up became the blueprint for everything since. Of course, we always try to push boundaries too.” 

Q: Do you prefer working solo or as part of a band? 
Maddy: Always as part of a team. I’ve been lucky to work with brilliant musicians, making music I find really interesting. What’s not to like? 

Q. What music do you listen to? “I really admire The Dixie Chicks; their comeback after being cancelled for criticising President Bush was very brave. And Tom Waits – he brings an entire world with him. I also love Lady Gaga.” 

Q. What advice do you have for young musicians today? “Do what you love. Find people with the same level of commitment, whether that’s 24/7, once a week, or once a month. Don’t try to engineer it. Enjoy it.” 

Q. What’s on your rider? “Just a good glass of red wine. Luckily, our tour manager used to work for a wine merchant, so he always finds us something lovely.” 

Q. What would be your wish for the world? “Tolerance. It’s in short supply. We need to understand most people are doing their best, even if we don’t always perceive it that way.” 

Q: And finally — can anyone learn to sing? 
Maddy: “Yes. The only real problem is if someone can’t listen, because singing is about listening. But most people can. The worst thing is being told you can’t sing – it becomes your story, and then your children believe it too. Everyone remembers exactly when and who told them they couldn’t sing. It’s such a shame, because everyone can. 

Visit steeleyespan.org.uk for tour tickets. For the Wantage Beacon show on 29th November, doors open at 7:30 pm, and tickets are priced at £32pp; call 01235 763456 or email beacon.wantage@whitehorsedc.gov.uk  

Book in for Stage Fright highlight 

Round & About

Inside No. 9 – Stage/Fright promises a spine-tingling night out  

If you’re a fan of dark comedy, unexpected twists, and theatrical thrills, then mark your calendars for Inside No. 9 – Stage/Fright.  

This Olivier Award-nominated stage adaptation of the beloved BBC series is embarking on a UK tour, bringing its signature blend of horror and humour to audiences across the country. 

Prepare for a theatrical experience that blends spine-tingling suspense with sharp wit as Inside No. 9 – Stage/Fright arrives at New Theatre Oxford from Tuesday 4th November to Saturday 8th Novembe. Following a sell-out West End run, this Olivier Award-nominated production brings the acclaimed BBC series to life on stage, offering a unique blend of horror, comedy, and theatrical innovation.  

Inside No. 9 – Stage/Fright is a theatrical experience like no other. Created by Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith, the duo behind the original TV series, the stage show combines elements of horror, comedy, and suspense to create a night of unpredictable entertainment. 

The production features a mix of new material and fan-favourite stories, including a reimagining of the iconic “Bernie Clifton’s Dressing Room” episode. Each performance is unique, with surprise guest stars making appearances to add an extra layer of excitement. 

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Inside No. 9, this stage adaptation offers something for everyone. The clever writing, engaging performances, and unexpected twists will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. 

Don’t miss your chance to experience this thrilling production live. Secure your tickets now and prepare for a night of theatrical brilliance that will leave you talking long after the final curtain falls. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official website: Inside No. 9 on Stage and to book visit https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/inside-no-9-stage-fright/new-theatre-oxford 

Sephora is ready for your glow-up! 

Round & About

Attention beauty fans! Sephora brings its beauty playground to Oxford 

Oxford is about to get a whole lot more glamorous! Sephora UK is set to open its doors at Westgate Oxford on 7th November 2025, bringing its signature stripes and world-class beauty experience to the City of Dreaming Spires. This will be the retailer’s 12th UK store and the final opening of 2025, with 3,919 sq. ft of floor space dedicated to beauty discovery, inspiration, and indulgence. 

✨  

Sephora’s Oxford store promises to combine heritage and modernity, reflecting the city’s own vibrant student and arts scene alongside its historic charm. Shoppers can explore cult-favourite products, TikTok-viral sensations, and exclusive “Only At Sephora” brands such as Haus Labs by Lady Gaga, Makeup By Mario, Tower 28, Merit Beauty, and INNBeauty Project. Of course, the iconic Sephora Collection will also be available, alongside a wide array of global favourites like Glossier, Rare Beauty, Sol de Janeiro, Fenty Beauty, Olaplex, and Huda Beauty. 

🎁 Opening Weekend Fun 

Forget overnight queues! Sephora has introduced its Beauty Bonus Card, giving shoppers the chance to win prizes—including full-size products, exclusive discounts, merch, and goodie bags—just by making a purchase during the opening weekend. It’s the perfect way for Oxford beauty fans to join the celebration without the wait. 

💅 More Than Just Shopping 

Sephora Oxford isn’t just about products—it’s about experiences. Enjoy personalised beauty consultations, gift wrapping, engraving, and access to the MySephora loyalty programme, which offers early access to new launches, seasonal treats, and exclusive gifts. Fans can also continue their beauty journey through the Sephora UK app, connecting online and in-store for a seamless experience. 

🌟 What Oxford Can Expect 

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Sephora UK, says: 
“We’re thrilled to be bringing Sephora UK to the beautiful city of Oxford. With Oxford’s vibrant beauty scene, dynamic student presence, and global tourist appeal, we expect this new store to become a buzzing hub of beauty activity.” 

Westgate Centre Director Brendan Hattam adds: “Sephora is an excellent addition to our mix of brands and a superb opening for the region. Guests are excited, and we can’t wait to see the buzz on opening day.” 

From 7th November, Oxfordians can immerse themselves in Sephora’s world of beauty, discovering products, trends, and experiences that have made the brand a global icon. 

📍 Where: Westgate Oxford 
📅 Opening Day: 7th November 2025 
🔗 Tickets & Info: Sephora UK 

Carolyn Mayling: turning grief into hope 

Round & About

Christmas brings joy, but it can be a tender time for those who are grieving. We chat to award-winning author Carolyn Mayling 

The sparkle of the season, though beautiful, can also cast long shadows, highlighting the absence of somebody who is deeply missed. Carolyn Mayling understands this delicate balance between sorrow and light. Her life’s work has become a source of comfort and connection for those dealing with loss. 

Carolyn is the founder and chair of trustees of Rosie’s Rainbow Fund, a local charity inspired by her daughter Rosie, who passed away at the age of 11 from vasculitis, a rare auto-immune disease. The loss was devastating, and Carolyn speaks openly about the fear, loneliness and exhaustion that comes with long hospital stays, and the quiet, aching aftermath that follows. 

But instead of turning inward, Carolyn has poured her love for Rosie into something that now touches thousands of lives. Since 2004, Rosie’s Rainbow Fund has supported families with seriously ill children, providing hospital music therapy, bereavement care and practical help when it’s needed most. 

Carolyn leads the charity, organising large-scale fundraisers, delivering talks across the UK and recently received the 2025 Beryl Bainbridge Award for her moving memoir The Future is Rosie. Her story doesn’t offer platitudes, but speaks to the real, transformative power of love and remembrance. 

As well as Rosie’s sister Ellie, Carolyn is also a proud mother to her son Dominic, who was born when Carolyn was 54 after a gruelling but worthwhile IVF journey. Now 16 he’s an elite golfer headed to the US. Carolyn continues to inspire young people through her role as co-director of Redroofs School for the Performing Arts, where she draws on her background in teaching to nurture talent and self-belief in children and teens. 

For those navigating loss – especially the loss of a child – Carolyn’s journey offers both comfort and courage. She doesn’t shy away from the reality of grief, but gently shows how it can become a bridge to others, a way to honour someone gone too soon through acts of care, kindness and meaning. Her presence is a quiet reminder that love endures. That even in grief, something new and beautiful can emerge. 

Rosie’s Rainbow Fund continues to provide vital services in hospitals across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire, offering music therapy, sibling support, emergency financial assistance and more. It is a living legacy – built not just in Rosie’s name, but in her spirit. 

Find out more or support the charity at rosiesrainbowfund.co.uk. The Future is Rosie is published by Alliance Publishing Press and available to order from all good booksellers  
& Amazon, or via carolynmayling.com  

Circle dancing of life

Round & About

Lynn Frances tells us about her passion for circle dancing and invites you to experience the joy of it at a class

Ever since I first came across it at a Green Gathering in Glastonbury in 1982, I have been ‘hooked’ on Circle Dancing.  

In those days there were only a handful of teachers and groups were rare, so the following year I had to start teaching to be able to dance! Since then the Circle Dance movement has expanded dramatically.  

The dances are international folk dances done in a circle holding hands. The original collection was by Bernhard Wosien, a German dance professor, who studied Balkan dance. He realised that he had a precious resource that brought people together in a wonderful sense of community. He wanted to share this with others and so took the dances to the spiritual community at Findhorn near Inverness. There they became a part of the everyday life and still are today.  

Gradually people took the dances out to the rest of the country and groups started to develop. It is now international, with teachers in many different countries.  

The range of dances is huge in terms of the countries they come from, their speed and intricacy. There are many from the Balkan region as well as from Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Armenia and the former Czechoslovakia. There are also recent choreographies by dancers who have been inspired by a particular piece of music. Personally, I favour the ethnic dances as I like the feeling of connection with other countries. It might not surprise you that I have included many peace dances in my classes over the last few years.  

Within the circle there is a sense of harmony in that we are all attempting to do the same steps at the same time (not always succeeding!). We are a unit, creating beautiful patterns on the floor and a sense of community that is rare in our current busy, separate lives. People speak of coming to a class feeling exhausted or really tense: the dancing energises them and, by the end, they are refreshed.  

Do come along to a class (at Brook, Guildford and Church Crookham) and try it. You do not need a partner and will find the dancers are very friendly and welcome newcomers. There are only a few basic steps so, once those are mastered and recognised, you can relax into the dance. You can contact me through my website hartcentre.co.uk 

Astrology & Tarot for November

Round & About

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)

Mars, your ruling planet, steps into Sagittarius on the 4th, stirring a restless desire to explore, to expand beyond familiar horizons. It’s a time when your heart may pull toward adventure and the unknown, but Mercury turning retrograde on the 9th asks you to slow down and to listen carefully, especially around communication and travel plans. The Full Moon on the 5th illuminates your financial world, encouraging you to be honest about what you truly value and what you may need to release. Venus enters Scorpio on the 6th, deepening emotional bonds, inviting you to nurture connections that feel soulful rather than superficial. Around the 12th, some tension may arise a Mars challenges Mercury, so remember that patience and clear boundaries are your allies. The New Moon on the 20th offers a quiet but potent opportunity to plant new seeds, especially in partnerships or shared resources. As November draws to a close, with the Sun and Venus in Sagittarius, your spirit feels lighter, playful, curious, ready for gentle joy and authentic connection.

Tarot for Aries: 7 of Wands
This card reminds you that standing your ground is an act of courage, especially now. You may find yourself defending your ideas or values, but it’s less about confrontation and more about honouring your truth with quiet strength. Keep your heart steady and your purpose clear.

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

Mars moves into your shared resources sector on the 4th, encouraging you to engage with what you hold in common with others — whether that’s finances, emotions, or support systems. It’s a subtle invitation to balance your ambition with collaboration. The Full Moon on the 5th asks you to clear space, perhaps physically or emotionally, so you can receive more freely. Venus entering Scorpio on the 6th deepens bonds, bringing intensity and a longing for soulful connection. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th urges caution with financial details, a gentle reminder to double-check the fine print or have a trusted advisor nearby. On the 20th, the New Moon encourages you to celebrate love and connection in meaningful ways, while the Sun entering Sagittarius on the 21st brings warmth and optimism to your financial goals. Venus joining Sagittarius on the 30th lights up your style and self-expression, a tender moment to nurture your sense of joy.

Tarot for Taurus: Three of Pentacles
This card speaks to the beauty of teamwork and shared effort. It’s a reminder that your gifts flourish most when offered in collaboration, and that building together creates lasting strength.

Gemini (May 21–June 20)

As Mars slips into your relationship zone on the 4th, your connections may stir with passion and sometimes challenge. The Full Moon on the 5th offers a needed pause, a moment to retreat and find peace within yourself amid the external demands. Venus’s move into Scorpio on the 6th deepens your emotional world, calling you toward honest intimacy. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th asks for extra care in communication, especially with loved ones, listening becomes as important as speaking. The New Moon on the 20th may open a door to new opportunities, particularly in work or creative expression, inviting you to step gently into something fresh. The Sun’s entry into Sagittarius on the 21st and Venus’s arrival on the 30th bring lightness and warmth, softening tensions and inviting playful connection.

Tarot for Gemini: The Star
A beautiful card of hope and renewal, The Star invites you to trust in your own light. Even in moments of uncertainty, your faith in yourself and the universe gently guides you forward.

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

Mars entering Sagittarius on the 4th brings a burst of energy that invites leadership, even if your heart is more inclined to nurture and protect. The Full Moon on the 5th highlights your social world, a chance to connect deeply or release what no longer serves your sense of belonging. Venus in Scorpio from the 6th encourages tender moments of closeness, even as Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th may unsettle communication, especially with those you hold dear. The New Moon on the 20th offers space for quiet reflection and the planting of new creative or emotional intentions. With the Sun joining Mars on the 21st, your inner power shines more clearly, and Mercury turning direct on the 29th helps smooth over misunderstandings. Venus’s move into Sagittarius on the 30th brings harmony, a gentle easing after weeks of tension.

Tarot for Cancer: Three of Wands
This card invites you to look toward the horizon with patient hope. Your efforts are setting the stage for something meaningful — trust the slow unfolding and stay open to new possibilities.

Leo (July 23–August 22)

The Sun’s presence in your home sector invites you to nurture your sanctuary and those within it. Mars moving into Sagittarius on the 4th stirs youthful energy and playful activity, especially from family or close community. The Full Moon on the 5th brings a sense of completion to a project or phase, gently freeing you to focus on heart-centred connections. Venus’s arrival in Scorpio on the 6th invites deeper emotional bonding, even as Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th asks for kindness and patience around misunderstandings, particularly at home. The New Moon on the 20th is perfect for intimate gatherings or meaningful conversations. The Sun’s shift into Sagittarius on the 21st and Mercury’s return to direct motion on the 29th clear the air, paving the way for renewed warmth and connection as Venus joins Sagittarius on the 30th.

Tarot for Leo: Judgement
A powerful card of awakening and renewal, Judgement invites you to release old stories and step into a clearer, more authentic version of yourself. Trust this process of rebirth, knowing it aligns you with your true path.

Virgo (August 23–September 22)

Mars entering Sagittarius on the 4th brings a surge of activity in your home and community, urging you to multitask with gentle care. The Full Moon on the 5th is favourable for travel or clearing old emotional baggage, but Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th reminds you to stay flexible as delays or miscommunications arise. Venus in Scorpio on the 6th lifts your spirits with deep emotional resonance, helping you find beauty in quiet moments. The New Moon on the 20th promises fresh starts, particularly in your personal or creative life. As the Sun moves into your domestic sector on the 21st, your focus turns to creating comfort and stability. Mercury’s return to direct motion on the 29th helps resolve lingering confusions, while Venus in Sagittarius on the 30th invites joy and optimism into your home life.

Tarot for Virgo: Knight of Wands
This card encourages you to embrace your boldness and curiosity. It’s a call to pursue your passions
with enthusiasm, while remembering to pause and reflect along the way.

Libra (September 23–October 22)

Mars in Sagittarius from the 4th inspires you to expand your horizons, whether through travel, study, or connecting with new ideas. The Full Moon on the 5th spotlights your inner world, inviting quiet reflection and emotional honesty. Venus’s transit through Scorpio on the 6th deepens your relationships, encouraging soulful conversations and vulnerability. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th calls for patience in communication—especially with close partners—reminding you to listen with compassion. The New Moon on the 20th encourages fresh starts in creative projects or romance. As the Sun enters Sagittarius on the 21st, your optimism and sense of adventure grow, while Venus joining Sagittarius on the 30th adds warmth and spontaneity to your social life.

Tarot for Libra: Ten of Cups
This card embodies emotional fulfilment and harmony. It’s a gentle nudge to cherish the love you have and to open your heart fully to the joy that surrounds you.

Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

Mars in Sagittarius from the 4th gives you courage to pursue personal growth and learning. The Full Moon on the 5th may bring a moment of clarity around your partnerships or collaborations, inviting you to release what no longer serves mutual trust. Venus’s entry into your sign on the 6th enhances your magnetism and desire for deep connection. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th asks for patience with misunderstandings, especially in how you express your feelings. The New Moon on the 20th heralds a fresh cycle of self-expression and creative potential. The Sun’s arrival in Sagittarius on the 21st brings lightness and inspiration, while Venus joining Sagittarius on the 30th encourages joyful exploration.

Tarot for Scorpio: Page of Pentacles
This card symbolises the beginning of a new journey in learning and growth. It invites you to stay curious and open to opportunities that nourish your ambitions.

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

Mars enters your sign on the 4th, sparking your energy and drive. The Full Moon on the 5th invites you to release past tensions and embrace personal freedom. Venus’s move into Scorpio on the 6th encourages deeper intimacy beneath your usual optimism. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th suggests revisiting plans with care and flexibility. The New Moon on the 20th energises your goals and aspirations, setting the stage for new beginnings. The Sun in your sign from the 21st amplifies your natural warmth and enthusiasm, while Venus joining you on the 30th invites playful connections and a boost in confidence.

Tarot for Sagittarius: The Sun
A radiant card of joy, vitality, and clarity, The Sun reminds you to celebrate your true self and the light you bring into the world.

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

Mars moving into Sagittarius on the 4th shifts your focus to friendships and long-term hopes, encouraging gentle leadership. The Full Moon on the 5th illuminates your professional path, offering clarity about your ambitions. Venus’s transit into Scorpio on the 6th fosters emotional depth in your relationships. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th encourages thoughtful reassessment of communication at work or with authority figures. The New Moon on the 20th invites you to plant seeds for career growth. The Sun entering Sagittarius on the 21st helps you see the bigger picture, while Mercury turning direct on the 29th clears misunderstandings. Venus moving into Sagittarius on the 30th invites warmth and optimism into your social circles.

Tarot for Capricorn: King of Swords
This card signifies clarity, integrity, and wise decision-making. It encourages you to lead with both intellect and compassion.

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

Mars in Sagittarius on the 4th fuels your desire for meaningful connections and shared ideals. The Full Moon on the 5th may bring insights into your inner world, encouraging self-care and emotional balance. Venus entering Scorpio on the 6th deepens your friendships and community bonds. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th asks for gentle communication and patience with misunderstandings. The New Moon on the 20th invites you to set new intentions around health or daily routines. The Sun’s entry into Sagittarius on the 21st lights up your friendships and hopes, while Venus joining Sagittarius on the 30th adds lighthearted warmth to your social life.

Tarot for Aquarius: Five of Pentacles
Though this card can feel challenging, it gently reminds you that even in hardship, you are not alone. Reach out and lean on your community for support.

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Mars moving into Sagittarius on the 4th encourages you to nurture your home and family life with quiet strength. The Full Moon on the 5th highlights your communication sector, inviting honest conversations and release of old patterns. Venus entering Scorpio on the 6th invites deep emotional healing. Mercury’s retrograde from the 9th suggests a reflective period for your creative or romantic expressions. The New Moon on the 20th offers a chance to begin fresh projects or emotional healing. The Sun’s shift into Sagittarius on the 21st brings energy and enthusiasm, while Venus joining Sagittarius on the 30th encourages playful self-expression.

Tarot for Pisces: Empress
A beautiful card of abundance, creativity, and nurturing, the Empress encourages you to care deeply for yourself and your dreams, allowing your inner garden to bloom.