A creative collaboration unveiled in Ogbourne St Andrew for Marlborough Open Studios

Zoe Gater

A collective of four local artists are exhibiting as part of this year’s Marlborough Open Studios, each weekend in July.


Newly refurbished Ogbourne St Andrew Church will be transformed into a lively art gallery for the four weekends in July. Four local artists will, for the first time, be taking part in Marlborough Open Studios (MOS), and showing their work in the beautiful Norman church, just a couple of miles north of Marlborough.

MOS 2026 visitors will be able to enjoy diverse work under one historic roof, including paintings by Jane Skingley and Amanda Gosse, photography by Robert Mills, and pottery by Stuart Anderson – all within the atmospheric setting of St Andrew’s. With creativity, community spirit and a shared purpose at its heart, this promises to be a unique and exciting addition to the north Wiltshire art trail.

The collaboration was inspired by a fundraising event that took place last autumn. Art in the Afternoon, organised by Church Warden, Marion Gordon-Finlayson, saw the Church transformed into a gallery for local artists to display their work, in support of Project Andrew, a community initiative to equip St Andrew’s with running water, a kitchen and a lavatory.

The event attracted many visitors, who came to enjoy and purchase works created by artists living right on their doorstep, and provided a welcome nudge for Project Andrew towards their campaign target.

The success of that October weekend sparked exciting conversations, and reinforced the village’s strong sense of community, and camaraderie among its fellow creatives. Among them was potter Stuart Anderson, who had the idea of transforming the Church into a shared studio for artists wishing to take part in Marlborough Open Studios but lacking a suitable space to exhibit their work.

Stuart canvassed local artists to explore the idea of forming a collective, and momentum quickly gathered following their first meeting, held at the much-loved, community-owned pub, The Silks at the end of 2025.

The Ogbourne Collective are delighted to be supporting Project Andrew, once again, by donating a percentage of all MOS sales.

Exhibition opening hours are 11am – 5pm on the following dates:

4th and 5th July
11th and 12th July
18th and 19th July
25th and 26th July

In pictures: Unforgettable Forest Live highlights

Zoe Gater

Photographer Nige Brown shares his highlights from another memorable Forest Live series at Westonbirt Arboretum.


This was my fifth visit covering Forest Live, and it never disappoints. This year was no exception. 

Opening the series was Fatboy Slim on a beautiful summer evening in the perfect setting. He held the audience in the palm of his hand, creating great music, a visual spectacle and a night to remember. 

Fat Boy Slim, setting the place alight during Forest Live at Westonbirt Aboretum on Wednesday. Pictures by Nige Brown.

The following nights featured Deacon Blue and UB40, both entertaining the crowd with their back catalogues of hits and bringing back plenty of memories along the way. 

Deacon Blue, performing at Forest Live, Westonbirt Aboretum. Pictures by Nige Brown.
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell at Forest Live, Westonbirt Aboretum. Pictures by Nige Brown.

Rick Astley was pure fun from start to finish, dancing with his backing singers, playing drums and clearly enjoying every minute with the audience. 

Rick Astley, performing at Forest Live, Westonbirt Aboretum. Pictures by Nige Brown.

The final night belonged to Richard Ashcroft, supported by former Kasabian frontman Tom Meighan, who put on a blistering performance of new songs alongside old favourites. 

Tom Meighan, performing at Forest Live, Westonbirt Aboretum. Pictures by Nige Brown.

Richard Ashcroft seemed to catch the mood of the crowd perfectly, building his set gradually and creating a very memorable evening with classics from The Verve as well as his solo material. 

Richard Ashcroft, performing at Forest Live, Westonbirt Aboretum. Pictures by Nige Brown.

It was the perfect way to end another fantastic Forest Live on a hot summer night in the Cotswolds. 

About Nige

Nige Brown is a professional photographer with more than 30 years’ experience covering news, travel, fashion, concerts and events through his business, Image 8 Photography. 

Award-winning doggy daycare provider Rags & Bert’s opens new site serving Fleet, Farnborough and surrounding areas

Zoe Gater

Award-winning dog care provider Rags & Bert’s has opened a new 5-star licensed doggy daycare centre in Farnborough, bringing premium daycare, dog training, a summer swimming pool and convenient dog bus services to pet owners in the surrounding areas.


Dog owners across Fleet, Church Crookham, Farnborough, Camberley and Blackwater can now access a premium doggy daycare experience as award-winning Rags & Bert’s opens its newest site at Cody Sports & Social Club, the former Busy Bees Nursery location.

Already trusted by dog owners in Reading, Rags & Bert’s has built its reputation on providing exceptional care that puts dogs first. The new centre expands the company’s unique approach to dog care, offering a safe, stimulating and enriching environment where dogs can play, socialise, learn and thrive.

The spacious new facility has been designed with dogs’ wellbeing in mind, with plenty of outdoor space for exercise, play and social interaction, alongside comfortable indoor air-conditioned areas to ensure dogs remain cool and comfortable during warmer weather. Every aspect of the environment has been carefully considered to provide a positive experience for dogs throughout the day.

Licensed to the highest 5-star standard, the centre is operated by a qualified professional team with expertise ranging from Level 2 to Level 5 in animal care, animal management and dog training. Every dog benefits from personalised care, structured social interaction, enrichment activities and appropriate rest, ensuring their individual needs are always prioritised.

Alongside Doggy Daycare, Rags & Bert’s also offers a range of training services designed to support dogs throughout every stage of their lives. The recently launched dog training packages provide tailored support for owners looking to build confidence, improve everyday manners or develop essential life skills. From puppy socialisation parties and early learning to one-to-one training sessions, the experienced team helps dogs learn in a positive, rewarding and enjoyable way.

With summer now here, the centre is also introducing a Doggy Swimming Pool, giving local dog owners a new way to help their four-legged friends stay cool and active during the warmer months. The pool provides a fun, safe and enjoyable environment where dogs can enjoy a refreshing swim, gentle exercise and quality time with their owners.

Designed with dog wellbeing in mind, the self-service pool allows owners to book dedicated sessions and enjoy the experience at their own pace. Whether dogs are confident swimmers or simply looking for a fun way to cool down, the pool offers a unique summer activity for dogs of all shapes and sizes.

For added convenience, Rags & Bert’s also operates its popular Dog Bus service, collecting and returning dogs directly from their homes, making daycare easy and stress-free for busy owners.

The business continues to invest in the site, with a professional grooming salon opening soon and plans for a purpose-built dog hotel in 2027, creating a complete destination for dog care under one roof.

“We believe dogs deserve more than simply being looked after during the day – they deserve an environment where they can learn, play, socialise and flourish,” said founder Julia O’Gorman.

To celebrate the opening, new customers can enjoy one week of free Doggy Daycare when signing up for regular daycare. 

Find out more at: https://crm.ragsandberts.co.uk/farnborough-site.

In partnership with Rags & Bert’s

Rags and Bert’s offers a warm, caring environment where dogs can spend the day enjoying doggy daycare or settle in for a stay at its luxury dog hotel. With generous indoor and outdoor spaces, the facility follows a daily programme of activities designed to keep dogs active, stimulated and socialised, giving owners peace of mind while they’re away.

As well as daycare and overnight stays, Rags and Bert’s provides a range of convenient on-site services, including professional grooming, dog training and puppy socialisation parties, making it a go-to destination for canine care.

Enhance your home’s beauty and value with timber windows and doors

Zoe Gater

Has your home got the look? Specialists Timber Windows discuss how installing well-made, well-specified timber windows and doors can really enhance the beauty and value of your home.


Walk down any street in England and you can tell, almost instinctively, whether the doors and windows of a home really suit the structure of the building. When the windows are wrong, it is blindingly obvious – but when they have been chosen well, or the original windows and doors preserved, the effect is simply beautiful.

So what should you consider when investing in new Timber Windows?

For many homeowners, restoring the integrity of the original structure is paramount. Choosing windows and doors that faithfully replicate the appearance of the building in its heyday, but with 21st century performance, is now achievable with the Timber Windows range.

Whilst some customers follow the conservation route, for others the opportunity to blend traditional and contemporary styles is a serious temptation. Pairing a stunning contemporary front door with beautiful box sash windows may give the individuality that your home has been longing for.

Rest assured that any investment in Timber Windows will help to restore the real value of your home!

There was a time when every window frame in sight was white or unsightly aluminium. Today, the range of factory-applied colours and finishes available for all timber windows & doors adds a level of choice our predecessors would envy. With natural timber finishes, subtle shades of green, blue and grey, as well as pristine white and elegant black, the Timber Windows colour palette can help to highlight or blend in.

And finally let’s not forget your neighbours, those passing by and even future purchasers. Style, colour and your choice of windows and doors all have a part to play in how your home is regarded – but rest assured that any investment in Timber Windows will help to restore the real value of your home.

Furthermore, with 15% off their entire range of timber windows and doors in their Summer Sale until the end of July, now is the perfect time to consider upgrading your home’s performance and beauty. Visit one of their showrooms today, details can be found below:

Timber Windows of Cirencester
18 Global Business Park, Off Wilkinson Road, Love Lane Ind Est, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1YZ

Timber Windows of Cheltenham
15 Suffolk Parade, Montpellier, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 2AE

Timber Windows of Chipping Norton
14 New Street, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5LJ

Timber Windows of Henley
6A Hart Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2AU

Timber Windows of Marlborough
139a High Street, Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1HN

Timber Windows of Oxford
255 Marston Road, Marston, Oxfordshire, OX3 0EN

For more information, call 0800 030 2000 or visit timberwindows.com.

In partnership with Timber Windows

With more than 55 showrooms nationwide, Timber Windows has built a trusted network of specialists dedicated to the supply and expert installation of premium timber windows and doors. Designed to enhance the beauty, character, and value of your home, the extensive product range is recognised for its exceptional versatility, distinctive designs, superior craftsmanship, and outstanding performance.

Inside Witney Museum’s major heritage transformation

Zoe Gater

Denise Berkley tells us about Witney Museum which has reopened with major heritage revamp.


A fresh chapter has begun for Witney and District Museum, which reopened on 8 April 2026 following a major redevelopment supported by a £198,096 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The volunteer-run museum, first opened in 1996, has undergone an extensive transformation designed to secure its future while bringing the town’s story to life in new and engaging ways.

At the heart of the project is a focus on Witney’s evolution since the closure of its last blanket factory in 2002, ensuring more recent history is captured alongside its industrial past.

Visitors will immediately notice the striking new gallery displays, created in collaboration with designer Sam Brown and studio work-form.

Inspired by traditional tenter racks once used in the town’s blanket industry, the installations give the space a distinctive and locally rooted identity.

A key feature of the redevelopment is the “Voices of Witney” project, which captures oral histories from local people, adding a rich and personal dimension to the museum’s collection.

Among those featured are individuals who have helped shape the town, from educators and creatives to community figures.

The museum also explores Witney’s wider heritage, including its long association with blanket manufacturing, as well as stories of healthcare and innovation, from traditional high street chemists to modern employers such as Abbott.

Chair of the management committee, David How, praised the impact of the funding. “We’re really grateful for the support from lottery players,” he said. “We’re proud to be launching our fresh, exciting showcases for Witney’s treasures and we see a bright future for the town’s heritage.”

Volunteer collections manager Beverley Sherwood highlighted the behind-the-scenes benefits, with funding enabling essential cataloguing and conservation work to protect the collection for future generations.

The project has also strengthened community connections, with new partnerships and plans for a Community Cabinet initiative inviting local groups to help shape future displays.

Housed in a historic Cotswold stone building once home to local builder Malachi Bartlett, the museum remains a treasure trove of Witney’s past and present.

The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm until October.

Tori Bastien of Viking Mortgages explores the different types of mortgages available

Zoe Gater

By understanding the different types of mortgages available, you can make more informed decisions and approach buying or remortgaging a property with greater confidence.


Last month, we covered the basics of mortgages and why they matter. This time, let’s look at the different types of mortgages you might come across. Understanding the options can help you see what’s out there and how they differ.

Fixed-Rate Mortgages

With a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate stays the same for a set period—usually 2, 5, or 10 years. This means your monthly payments remain consistent, making it easier to budget. Fixed-rate mortgages are popular for their stability, especially if you prefer predictability.

Variable-Rate Mortgages

Variable-rate mortgages have interest rates that can change over time. There are a few types:

  • Standard Variable Rate (SVR): Set by the lender and can go up or down at their discretion.
  • Discounted Rate: Offers a discount on the lender’s SVR for a set period.
  • Tracker Mortgages: Follow an external rate, such as the Bank of England base rate, plus a set percentage.

These mortgages can offer flexibility and potentially lower rates, but your payments may increase if rates rise.

Interest-Only Mortgages

With an interest-only mortgage, you pay only the interest on the loan each month, not the capital. This means your monthly payments are lower, but you’ll need a plan to repay the full loan amount at the end of the term. These are less common now and usually require a clear repayment strategy.

Offset Mortgages

An offset mortgage links your savings and mortgage accounts. Your savings are used to reduce the amount of interest you pay on your mortgage. For example, if you have a £200,000 mortgage and £20,000 in savings, you’d only pay interest on £180,000. This can help you pay off your mortgage faster or reduce your monthly payments.

Spring and summer are busy times for the property market, so knowing your options can help you feel more prepared. Even if you’re not planning to move just yet, understanding the different types of mortgages puts you in a stronger position for the future.

Host a ‘marvellous picnic’ this summer and help support seriously ill children

Zoe Gater

The Amersham headquartered Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity is encouraging families, friends and communities across the UK to host a picnic this summer, helping to raise funds for specialist Roald Dahl Nurses who support seriously ill children and their families.


Launching on Monday 30 June 2026 to coincide with National Children’s Nurses Day, Marvin’s Marvellous Picnic invites people to gather friends, family, colleagues and neighbours for a fundraising picnic in support Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity.

Led by Marvin, the charity’s mascot, the campaigns aims to bring communities together while raising vital funds to help establish more Roald Dahl Nurses across the UK.

Participants can download a free fundraising pack, filled with picnic essentials, including invitations, games, a picnic checklist and fundraising ideas designed to help hosts create a memorable event.

Whether it’s a garden gathering, a picnic in the park or an office lunch break, the charity says taking part is designed to be simple and accessible for everyone.

As an incentive, anyone who raises more than £250 will be entered into a prize draw to win an exclusive signed copy of Revolting Recipes, alongside a selection of Roald Dahl-themed prizes.

Sophie Fanning-Tichborne, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, said: “Marvin’s Marvellous Picnic is an exciting way to bring people together this summer and do something for an incredible cause.

“Every picnic will directly help to establish more Roald Dahl Nurses, who provide specialist care and life-changing support to seriously ill children and their families when they need it most. We can’t wait to see picnics taking place all over the country this summer.”

Funds raised through the campaign will support the charity’s network of specialist nurses, who help children with complex and lifelong conditions navigate treatment and everyday life.

Roald Dahl Nurses work closely with families, hospitals and healthcare teams, coordinating care, explaining medical information and providing support during particularly challenging times.

The charity’s mission is to ensure that every seriously ill child who needs one has access to a Roald Dahl Nurse, helping families feel more informed, supported and in control.

For more information or to download a fundraising pack, visit roalddahlcharity.org.

How one Aylesbury volunteer is changing conversations around men’s mental health

Zoe Gater

One simple question is changing conversations around men’s mental health – and one Aylesbury volunteer is helping men take that first difficult step.


“How are you?” It is one of the questions we ask every day. But for many men, the answer is often the same: “Fine.” “Not too bad.” “I’m alright.”

For Bucks teacher Steve, a volunteer captain for men’s mental health charity Talk Club, changing that conversation starts with adding three simple words: “Out of ten?”

“The number is personal to everyone,” Steve explains. “My eight might be somebody else’s five. But by giving ourselves a score, we stop and think about how we’re actually feeling in that moment.”

This simple idea lies at the heart of Talk Club, a men’s mental fitness and suicide prevention charity created after a group of friends lost someone close to them in 2014. They came together in the back room of a pub to talk, and from that moment a movement was born.

Today, Talk Club groups across the country provide a confidential, non-judgmental space where men can talk, listen and realise they are not alone.

Steve first became involved three years ago after looking for voluntary work. Already aware of Talk Club through one of its founders, he signed up to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise money for the charity.

“Whilst I was there, someone planted the seed about becoming a captain,” he says. “It didn’t take very long for that to grow.”

Since then, Steve has run regular sessions in Aylesbury, including Talk & Listen meetings and Talk & Box sessions at Pegasus Gym, where men combine conversation with pad work and physical activity.

“It’s not punching each other!” Steve laughs. “But that burst of intense exercise can do wonders.”

Talk Club’s approach is proving powerful. On average, members leave a session with their scores rising by 15%. But Steve believes one of the greatest benefits is simply hearing other men’s stories.

“People realise they’re not the only one experiencing something difficult. There’s a huge comfort in knowing you’re not alone.”

The hardest step, he says, is often the first.

“For a lot of blokes, walking through the door is the biggest challenge. We’ve had people contact us and express interest but never quite make it inside. We understand how difficult that can be.”

The message from Steve is simple: there is no expectation to be vulnerable straight away – just come along and see what it’s about.

“We’re ordinary people,” he says. “The captains aren’t therapists or counsellors. We’re there to listen.”

Talk Club is always looking for more volunteer male captains to help bring sessions to communities across the country, while its free app allows anyone to check in with their own mental fitness.

Steve will also be at Live in the Park in Aylesbury on Saturday, 29th August, when visitors can meet him, find out more and learn how a simple question could start a life-changing conversation.

For more information, to find a local group or download the free app, visit talkclub.org.

You can also follow @talkclubaylesbury on Instagram or contact the team directly for more details.

Astrology & Tarot for July 2026

Zoe Gater

What’s in store for you in July 2026? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers her new monthly guides for all signs…


Aries (March 21–April 19)

July carries the scent of adventure, Aries. With Mars stirring your wanderlust, even the shortest journey could lead to an unexpected discovery. If travel isn’t possible, explore closer to home. Sometimes the greatest treasures are hidden in familiar places, waiting to be seen with fresh eyes.

Mercury retrograde turns your attention towards home and family matters. Leaks, repairs or unfinished projects may call for your care, but beneath the practicalities lies a deeper invitation: what foundations in your life are ready for renewal?

The first weekend of the month crackles with electricity as Mars dances with Neptune and Pluto while meeting unpredictable Uranus. Life may deliver surprises, sudden opportunities or a dramatic twist of fate. Stay flexible and trust your instincts. What appears disruptive at first may reveal itself as liberation.

The New Moon on the 14th opens a doorway for new beginnings around your home, family life or sense of belonging. Whether you’re redecorating, moving furniture, planting seeds in the garden or simply nurturing yourself, this lunation asks: what would help you feel truly at home within yourself?

As the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, your heart awakens to pleasure, romance and creativity. The weeks ahead invite you to play, flirt and celebrate life. Let yourself be seen.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, bringing greater clarity and ease. By the Full Moon on the 29th, friendship and community take centre stage. Gather with kindred spirits and allow yourself to receive the joy that comes from genuine connection.

Tarot Insight: The Hanged Man

Something is asking you to pause and see things differently. Rather than pushing forward, there’s value in stepping back and letting understanding arrive in its own time. A shift in perspective brings clarity.

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

July invites you to slow down and savour the season, Taurus, though Mercury retrograde may occasionally tie your words in knots. If conversations become muddled, pause before reacting. Not every misunderstanding requires a battle; some simply need a little patience and grace.

Your ruler Venus glides into Virgo on the 9th, awakening your romantic and creative nature. Beauty, affection and simple pleasures become powerful medicine. Whether you’re nurturing a relationship or rediscovering your own passions, allow yourself to enjoy life’s sweetness without guilt.

The 13th could bring unexpected tension as Venus challenges Uranus. Emotions may run high and old patterns could surface. Before responding, ask yourself: am I reacting to what is happening now, or to something much older seeking to be healed?

The New Moon on the 14th encourages a change of scenery. A countryside escape, a coastal walk or even a spontaneous day trip may provide exactly the perspective you need. Sometimes wisdom arrives when we step beyond the boundaries of routine.

As the Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd, your attention turns towards home and family. There is something deeply nourishing about gathering loved ones together, tending your garden or creating a sanctuary that reflects who you are becoming.

Mercury’s direct motion on the 23rd helps conversations flow more easily once again. By the Full Moon on the 29th, a professional matter reaches a meaningful turning point. Take a moment to acknowledge how far you’ve come. Are you building a life that truly reflects your values, or simply following a path you have outgrown?

Tarot Insight: Two of Swords

You may be holding a decision in a careful balance. It’s not about forcing an answer, but allowing yourself to see what you already know beneath the surface. Trust your inner sense of truth.

Gemini (May 21–June 21)

July invites you to take a closer look at what you truly value, Gemini. Opportunities to improve your finances may appear, but with Mercury, your ruling planet, retrograde, it is wise to tread carefully. What seems like a bargain today may reveal hidden costs tomorrow. Slow and steady serves you well.

Venus moves into your home and family sector on the 9th, inspiring you to beautify your surroundings. A few thoughtful touches can transform a space into a sanctuary. More importantly, how does your home make you feel? Your environment reflects your inner world more than you realise.

The New Moon on the 14th shines a light on fresh earning potential. A creative project, side venture or forgotten talent could become a valuable source of income. Remain open to possibilities that arrive in unexpected forms.

As the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, your curiosity awakens. Conversations, short journeys and chance encounters bring inspiration. The world feels alive with stories waiting to be discovered.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, clearing away confusion and helping you regain confidence in your decisions. The following day favours heartfelt conversations as Mercury and Venus harmonise. If there is something you’ve been longing to say, trust your voice.

The Full Moon on the 29th stirs your adventurous spirit. Whether through travel, study or spiritual exploration, ask yourself: where is life calling me to expand beyond what I already know?

Tarot Insight: Ten of Pentacles

There’s a sense of stability around home, family, or long-term foundations. This is a card of continuity and legacy, where what you’re building has deeper roots than you may realise.

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

July begins beneath the glow of your birthday season, Cancer, reminding you that it is time to honour yourself as much as you nurture others. Yet Mercury retrograde in your sign may leave you questioning your direction. If doubts arise, trust that clarity is forming beneath the surface.

Venus enters your communication sector on the 9th, softening your words and opening pathways for connection. A conversation, message or unexpected encounter could touch your heart more deeply than you anticipate.

The New Moon in your sign on the 14th offers a powerful personal reset. This is your chance to redefine how you see yourself and how you wish the world to see you. What version of yourself is ready to emerge?

As the Sun moves into your financial sector on the 22nd, practical matters come into focus. Opportunities to improve your income may appear, helping you feel more secure and grounded.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, restoring confidence and helping you express yourself with greater ease.

By the Full Moon on the 29th, a financial matter reaches a turning point. Hidden leaks may be revealed, but so too are opportunities to create healthier foundations. Remember, true abundance begins with recognising your own worth.

Tarot Insight: Page of Swords

Curiosity is strong here. You might be gathering information, asking questions, or noticing things
you hadn’t before. Stay open, but try not to jump to conclusions too quickly.

Leo (July 23–August 22)

July begins quietly, Leo, encouraging reflection before your annual season of celebration arrives. With the Sun tucked away in the most private part of your chart alongside retrograde Mercury, life asks you to pause and listen to the whispers beneath the noise.

Venus enters your financial sector on the 9th, bringing opportunities to attract greater abundance. You may discover that when you stop chasing and start trusting, resources flow more naturally.

The New Moon on the 14th is a reminder that rest is productive too. Retreat, recharge and release anything that has drained your vitality. What old story are you finally ready to leave behind?

Everything changes when the Sun enters your sign on the 22nd. Your light shines brightly once more, drawing people, opportunities and admiration your way. This is your invitation to take up space unapologetically and celebrate all that makes you unique.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, helping you find your voice again.

By the Full Moon on the 29th, a relationship matter becomes crystal clear. Whether it deepens or reaches its natural conclusion, mtrust what is revealed.

With Jupiter blessing your Sun, the universe seems eager to support your growth. Plant intentions worthy of your brightest future.

Tarot Insight: Four of Cups

Emotionally, something may feel a bit flat or repetitive, as though you’re looking at what’s in front of you but not quite feeling it. A new emotional opportunity may already be closer than it seems.

Virgo (August 23–September 22)

July encourages you to find balance between social connection and sacred solitude, Virgo. Invitations may arrive from every direction, yet Mercury retrograde reminds you that not every opportunity deserves your energy.

Venus enters your sign on the 9th, enhancing your natural charm and bringing a gentle glow to your presence. This is a beautiful time to refresh your appearance, nurture your wellbeing and remember that caring for yourself is not a luxury but a necessity.

The New Moon on the 14th highlights friendships and community. A new connection may enter your life, offering support, inspiration or a sense of belonging. Ask yourself: who truly sees and values the person I am becoming?

When the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, your focus shifts inward. The weeks ahead encourage rest, reflection and spiritual renewal. Quiet moments may reveal more wisdom than any busy social calendar.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, helping you reconnect with friends and future plans. The following day brings warmth to matters of the heart, making it easier to express affection and vulnerability.

The Full Moon on the 29th illuminates health, habits and daily routines. Small changes now can create powerful transformations in the months ahead.

Tarot Insight: The Chariot

Momentum builds here. You’re being asked to take control of direction and focus your energy clearly. Even if things feel scattered, you have the ability to bring them into alignment.

Libra (September 23–October 22)

July places you in the spotlight, Libra, though Mercury retrograde suggests that patience is needed when navigating professional matters. Choose your words carefully and resist the urge to rush important decisions.

Your ruling planet Venus slips into a quieter corner of your chart on the 9th, inviting reflection and restoration. Time spent reading, creating, meditating or wandering through nature replenishes your spirit. What does your soul need more of?

The New Moon on the 14th could bring a significant opportunity related to your career or public role. A door may open unexpectedly, asking you to step into greater visibility. Trust your abilities and don’t diminish your achievements.

As the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, your social life blossoms. Gatherings, celebrations and meaningful connections remind you that life is sweeter when shared with others.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, making communication flow more naturally. Any uncertainty
surrounding work or future plans begins to clear.

The Full Moon on the 29th shines a romantic light on your world. Whether single or attached, allow yourself to be fully present with someone you cherish. Love grows where attention flows.

Tarot Insight: Nine of Wands

You’ve been through a lot, and there’s a sense of caution or tired resilience. Still, you’re closer than you think to a breakthrough. Don’t give up just before the turning point.

Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

July awakens your longing for adventure, Scorpio, but Mercury retrograde suggests that patience will be your greatest ally. Travel plans may shift, delays could arise and details may require a second look. Rather than forcing matters forward, allow events to unfold in their own time.

The 5th brings a surge of determination as Mars and Pluto, your ruling planets, work together harmoniously. If there is a mountain you’ve been trying to climb, this is your moment to recommit.
You possess far more strength than you sometimes realise.

Venus enters your friendship sector on the 9th, bringing opportunities for meaningful connections. New faces may enter your orbit, while existing friendships deepen through shared experiences. For some, romance may emerge from an unexpected social encounter.

The New Moon on the 14th encourages you to broaden your horizons. Whether through travel, study or spiritual exploration, life asks you to venture beyond familiar territory. What belief, dream or possibility is calling you forward?

As the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, ambition takes centre stage. Recognition for your efforts is possible over the coming weeks, especially if you’ve been quietly working towards an important goal.

The Full Moon on the 29th illuminates matters close to home. Completing a household project or creating greater harmony in your environment brings a deep sense of satisfaction. Sometimes the greatest transformation begins with the ground beneath your feet.

Tarot Insight: The Fool

There’s a fresh chapter opening for you, even if it feels uncertain at first. The Fool invites you to trust the unknown and take a step without needing all the answers. Something new is forming, and while it may feel slightly exposed or vulnerable, there’s also real freedom here. Let yourself begin again without carrying the weight of what came before.

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

July begins with a few twists and turns around money matters, Sagittarius. Mercury retrograde encourages caution with spending and asks you to pay close attention to the finer details. While unexpected expenses may appear, they also offer an opportunity to strengthen your relationship with abundance.

Venus enters the highest point of your chart on the 9th, bringing grace and goodwill to your professional life. Recognition for your efforts may arrive, along with opportunities to strengthen your reputation. Continue showing up with integrity as the universe is taking note.

The New Moon on the 14th could bring welcome financial relief, whether through a refund, bonus, gift or unexpected opportunity. Allow yourself to receive. Sometimes prosperity arrives when we stop worrying about how it will appear.

As the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, your adventurous spirit awakens. New landscapes, fresh experiences and exciting possibilities beckon. Yet Mercury remains retrograde until the following day, so patience remains your travelling companion.

Once Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, plans begin to flow more smoothly.

By the Full Moon on the 29th, your local community becomes a source of joy and connection.

With the Sun united with your ruler Jupiter, life feels filled with possibility. Ask yourself: if fear were not part of the equation, what would I dare to pursue?

Tarot Insight: Three of Cups

Connection and celebration are highlighted. This is a reminder of the joy found in shared moments, friendship, and laughter. Let yourself be around those who lift your spirit.

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

Relationships occupy centre stage throughout July, Capricorn. The Sun illuminates your partnerships while Mercury retrograde challenges communication. Patience, honesty and careful listening will prove more valuable than trying to win an argument.

Venus enters your travel sector on the 9th, inspiring a longing for distant horizons and fresh experiences. A shared adventure may help strengthen a relationship, reminding you of the joy found beyond daily responsibilities.

If you’re single, the New Moon on the 14th could bring someone intriguing into your orbit. There is a sense of possibility around new connections, particularly those that broaden your perspective or challenge your assumptions.

The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd, shifting your focus towards finances, intimacy and deeper emotional bonds. Surface-level interactions no longer satisfy. You crave authenticity and meaningful exchange.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, helping conversations become clearer and more productive.

Meanwhile, Saturn, your ruler, begins its retrograde journey on the 26th, encouraging you to review long-term plans and unfinished responsibilities.

By the Full Moon on the 29th, questions surrounding security come into focus. What truly makes you feel safe? The answer may have less to do with material possessions and more to do with trusting yourself.

Tarot Insight: Knight of Cups

There’s movement in the emotional realm. This could be an invitation, an apology, or simply a softer approach to something you’ve been navigating. Lead with sincerity rather than control.

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

July begins with a need to navigate workplace dynamics carefully, Aquarius. Mercury retrograde may stir misunderstandings or create unnecessary complications, but your ability to remain calm and objective will help you rise above the drama.

Venus enters your shared resources sector on the 9th, bringing support in financial matters and strengthening bonds built on trust. This is a reminder that receiving help can be just as important
as offering it.

The New Moon on the 14th highlights work, wellbeing and daily routines. If you’ve been longing for a fresh start, this lunation offers an opportunity to create healthier habits and align your days with your deeper values.

Pay close attention to insights arriving around the 18th. Uranus and Pluto inspire flashes of brilliance that could shape your future in surprising ways. Trust the ideas that arrive seemingly out of nowhere.

As the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, relationships take centre stage. Meaningful partnerships, collaborations and connections flourish over the coming weeks. What qualities are you seeking in
those who walk beside you?

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, smoothing communication and helping plans gain momentum.

The Full Moon in your sign on the 29th shines a bright light on your personal growth. Celebrate how far you’ve come and allow yourself to step confidently into the next chapter.

Tarot Insight: Seven of Pentacles

You’re in a phase of assessment. Something you’ve been investing in is slowly taking shape, even if it doesn’t feel immediate. Patience will show you what is truly growing.

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

July asks you to move gently, Pisces. Mercury retrograde stirs confusion in matters of the heart, making misunderstandings more likely than usual. Before reacting, pause and listen beneath the words. Often, what is left unsaid carries the deepest truth.

Your ruling planet Neptune begins its retrograde journey on the 7th, encouraging reflection around money, values and self-worth. If financial matters feel uncertain, simplicity will be your greatest ally. A mindful approach now protects your resources in the months ahead.

Venus enters your partnership sector on the 9th, softening tensions and bringing opportunities for healing through honest conversation. Compassion becomes a bridge where distance once existed.

The New Moon on the 14th shines brightly on romance, creativity and joy. If you’re single, new possibilities may emerge. If you’re attached, shared experiences can rekindle warmth and affection. Most importantly, allow yourself to reconnect with what makes your spirit come alive.

As the Sun enters Leo on the 22nd, work and daily responsibilities gather momentum. Your natural gifts are needed, so don’t hide your light. Others benefit from the wisdom and sensitivity you bring.

Mercury turns direct on the 23rd, helping clarity return. By the Full Moon on the 29th, your soul asks for rest. Retreat from the noise, spend time near water if possible and listen to your inner voice. What message has your intuition been trying to share all along?

Tarot Insight: Queen of Swords

Clarity is your strength here. You may be called to see something with honesty and emotional intelligence combined. This is about boundaries, wisdom, and trusting what you know deep down, even if it requires a firm decision or a clear line.

Star Q&A: Madness icon, Suggs

Zoe Gater

Ahead of Windsor Live, Madness frontman Suggs reflects on childhood memories of his jazz-singer mother, sneaking into Who concerts, losing his luggage in David Bowie’s driveway, the changing face of London’s music scene, and why Madness still attracts new generations of fans…


Hello Suggs! What’s your earliest memory of music, please?

“My mum used to sing in pubs. She was a jazz singer and back then loads of pubs had pianos. Someone would start playing and Mum would sing for hours. It’s great, looking back. But as a kid, it was deeply embarrassing and you knew you weren’t getting home any time soon.”

Who were your musical heroes growing up?

“The Who were massive for me. I bunked into a gig at Charlton football ground and years later I actually paid Roger Daltrey the two quid I owed him. He was all right about it. They had laser beams and all this incredible stuff going on. Hearing Baba O’Riley live was unbelievable. My favourite was Cockney Rebel; I loved Make Me Smile. You’d carry albums around school like badges, to look cool: Bowie, Bob Marley, Roxy Music. Pre-mobile phones this, and what you wore, showed people who you were.”

Have you ever been starstruck?

“David Bowie would be right up there. He came backstage once in New York, in the early 1980s – that was a bit of a shocker. He invited us to stay with him in Switzerland once. We drove up this mountain road to this amazing house cut into the hillside and there was Bowie himself waving us into a sort of Bond villain lair. But we forgot the suitcases were strapped to the roof of the car. All our T-shirts and underwear went flying down his driveway. Not very cool.”

What can we all expect from you at Windsor Live?

“Outdoor gigs are always brilliant if the weather’s good. The sun’s shining, everyone’s having a great time. Bringing a bit of joy. We’ve got festivals pretty much every weekend through summer now. We still really enjoy it.”

Do you miss the London Madness started out in?

“You’ve got to be careful of the grumpy old man thing, ‘shut up, Dad!’ But yes: London’s changed massively. Young people just can’t afford it now. Back then you could move there with nothing and somehow survive. There used to be railway arches, squats, empty buildings, pubs everywhere. Especially Camden. You could rehearse so cheaply and there were loads of little venues to play. Most of those are gone now and that’s a real tragedy for young bands.”

How do Madness keep going after all these years?

“We’re like a dysfunctional family. Of course we argue. But arguing’s healthy. I’ve seen bands who never argue and then suddenly hate each other. It’s remarkable we’re still alive really, given what we put ourselves through over the years, haha! We were meant to have a quieter year but people keep asking us back. I don’t know why.”

Do younger audiences still connect with Madness?

“That’s the amazing thing. We still get loads of young people coming to gigs. I think we appeal to young people because we’re all pretty stupid. But people still dig this stuff. It’s a miracle really and it’s a real privilege.”