Clarkson previews Diddly Squat crop plots ahead of Cereals 2026 debut

Zoe Gater

Jeremy Clarkson is hosting Cereals 2026 at Diddly Squat Farm, championing the UK’s agricultural and horticultural sectors, sparking fresh thinking, and providing a platform for knowledge exchange and inspiration.


Jeremy Clarkson says he is “genuinely and properly looking forward” to hosting Cereals at Diddly Squat Farm this summer, after getting a first-hand look at preparations for one of Britain’s most prestigious farming events.

Bringing together expert advisors, leading arable farmers and over 650 of the most respected suppliers, the event showcases the latest innovations, products and expert advice.

The broadcaster-turned-farmer joined Kaleb Cooper and Charlie Ireland at a press conference during the Cereals Crop Plot Day in Oxfordshire ahead of the event on 10 and 11 June 2026.

Clarkson admitted he initially struggled to understand the appeal of the long-running arable show.

“I’ve got to be honest with you, I couldn’t see why it was prestigious,” he said. “I was thinking, so who’s going to come all the way here to look at root structure?”

But after touring the site and seeing the crop plots for himself, he said his perspective had changed.

“Today’s the first time I’ve been out and actually seen this properly and I’ve found myself going, ‘Oh look at that oilseed rape.’ I’m really starting to understand it,” he said. “I think it’s an amazing show. I can’t wait for it now.

“Charlie has made it clear this is as prestigious as it gets. I’m thrilled to bits to be hosting it, and it does look good out there.”

Clarkson also said the opportunity to learn more about farming was one of the event’s biggest attractions.

“Every day is a learning day for me,” he said. “I learn something new from these guys or from reading books, and then when Cereals comes here and there’ll be 25,000 farmers. I’m going to learn a lot.”

Charlie Ireland said hosting Cereals at Diddly Squat offered farmers the chance to see new techniques and technologies during a difficult period for the industry.

“For a lot of arable farms the first impact of the Iran war has been the cost of fuel,” he said. “Uncertainty now is centred on supply of fuel and fertiliser.”

“When you walk around a show such as Cereals, you need to have your eyes and ears open,” he added. “Look at what is going on, what new techniques are out there, what opportunities to mitigate the need for as much fertiliser use, what technology can be used and there’s lots of that about.”

Kaleb Cooper said the event could also help inspire younger people to consider careers in farming.

“We need a farmer three times a day – breakfast, lunch and dinner,” he said. “So, there is definitely a future in farming and it’s so important to open up people’s eyes and opportunities in our industry.”

The 2026 event will also introduce a new Livestock Zone sponsored by Nofence, alongside machinery demonstrations, agronomy features and regenerative agriculture talks.

By combining live demonstrations with expert advice and networking, it helps shape the future of sustainable and profitable farming.

For more information about Cereals 2026, visit thecerealsevent.co.uk.

100 years of swing and big band classics come to Wycombe Swan this May

Zoe Gater

The LP Swing Orchestra returns to Wycombe Swan Theatre this May, with a spectacular swing concert raising funds for Karibuni Children.


A century of swing is coming to Wycombe Swan Theatre this spring, as the LP Swing Orchestra presents its spectacular fundraising concert, Another… 100 Years of Big Band Music, on Sunday 31 May 2026.

Led by acclaimed Artistic Director Georgina Jackson – who will both sing and play trumpet throughout the performance – the 17-piece orchestra will be joined by celebrated vocalists Matthew Ford and Nicola Emmanuelle for an afternoon of timeless swing classics and modern big-band favourites.

Audiences can expect a musical journey spanning 100 years, from the New Orleans sound of Louis Armstrong and the Paul Whiteman Orchestra to the golden age of Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Glenn Miller.

The programme includes iconic songs such as Mack the Knife, St Louis Blues, What a Wonderful World, I’ve Got You Under My Skin and The Lady is a Tramp, alongside contemporary hits associated with Michael Bublé and Harry Connick Jr – while paying tribute to legendary big-band vocalists like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sammy Davis Jr.

Fans of last year’s performance can also look forward to the return of the orchestra’s much-loved rendition of Rhapsody in Blue.

More than just an afternoon of world-class music, the concert will raise funds for Karibuni Children, a Buckinghamshire charity helping communities in Kenya through education, vocational training and sustainable development projects.

David Farmer, Chair of Karibuni Children, expressed his sincere thanks to the LP Swing Orchestra and Wycombe Swan for their support of this fundraising concert. He stated, “I can’t think of a better combination for a May Sunday afternoon – listening to an exceptional big band playing some of my favourite music, while raising money for a great cause. I am hoping that we can fill the Wycombe Swan with like-minded people!”

Another… 100 Years of Big Band Music takes place at 3pm on Sunday 31 May 2026 at Wycombe Swan Theatre.

For more information or to buy tickets, visit trafalgartickets.com/wycombeswan-theatre/en-GB/event/music/another-100-years-of-big-bands-tickets.

In partnership with Karibuni Children

Karibuni Children is a Buckinghamshire-based charity that works to help Kenyan children to fulfil their potential and release themselves from the cycle of poverty.

Screening of People’s Emergency Briefing brings climate realities to Wallingford

Zoe Gater

A short film and expert-led discussion will explore how the climate and nature crises are already affecting everyday life in Britain – and what it means for the Wallingford community.

Community leaders are invited to a special screening of People’s Emergency Briefing – a short but powerful film that explores the real-world impacts of the climate and nature crises on everyday life in Britain.

Hosted by Bioabundance Community Interest Company, the event takes place on Sunday 7 June 2026 at St Mary-Le-More Church.

The screening centres on footage from a National Emergency Briefing received by 1,200 national leaders, including MPs.

Featuring leading UK experts, the film sets out the growing risks to food and water supplies, national security, public health and the economy, offering a clear-eyed look at how these challenges already reshape daily life.

Rising energy prices, disrupted supply chains, and increasing pressure on infrastructure and insurance systems show that these issues are far from abstract.

Instead, the screening aims to provide a grounded, measured overview alongside practical ideas for how communities can respond.

The Wallingford event also welcomes guest speaker Professor Nathalie Seddon of the University of Oxford, one of the briefing’s expert contributors, who will share further insight after the film.

Local MP Olly Glover will also attend alongside a range of local dignitaries.

Organisers invite participants from across business, education, health, sport, faith and public life, creating space for cross-sector discussion on what these challenges mean for the Wallingford area and how individuals and organisations can begin to prepare.

A broad coalition of organisations supports the initiative, including the UK Health Alliance on Climate Change, National Trust, Church of England, University of Exeter, Royal Meteorological Society, World Wide Fund for Nature and National Education Union.

Times and booking

Doors open at 2.30pm, and the film begins at 3pm, followed by Professor Seddon’s talk, discussion and refreshments. The event closes at 5.30pm.

Places remain strictly limited.

Booking opens to the wider public from Saturday 9 May 2026.

To book, visit tickettailor.com/bioabundancecommunityinterestcompany.

The Base Greenham’s Festival of Arts and Crafts returns this summer

Zoe Gater

From hands-on workshops and interactive art to live music and artisan food, the Festival of Arts and Crafts promises a full celebration of creativity, craftsmanship and community spirit.


This summer, The Base Greenham will transform into a lively hub of creativity as it hosts the Festival of Arts and Crafts 2026, running from Saturday 6 to Sunday 21 June.

Across two weeks, visitors can explore a packed programme celebrating local makers, artists, and hands-on creativity.

Opening weekend

The festival launches with a vibrant Craft Fair on 6–7 June (10am–5pm), taking over the grounds around The Base.

Visitors can expect a bustling marketplace of handmade arts and crafts, accompanied by live music from local performers, supported by sponsor Honesty Group, alongside artisan food and drink stalls and the on-site café.

Entry is via a suggested £2 donation, supporting The Base’s charitable work in the community. Free parking is available nearby, with Blue Badge parking on site and accessible public transport links.

Art exhibition and interactive installations

Running daily throughout the festival (10am–5pm), a major art exhibition will showcase over 150 original works by local artists, all available to purchase. Entry is free, though booking is recommended.

The Runway Gallery will also be transformed into a large-scale interactive chalkboard doodle wall, inviting visitors of all ages to contribute and watch the artwork evolve across the fortnight.

Workshops, experiences and creative sessions

A series of taster workshops returns, offering opportunities to try printmaking, beginner oil painting, pottery throwing, willow coaster making, and experimental landscape art.

Sessions are designed for all abilities and are expected to book quickly due to demand.

Plus, families and young visitors can enjoy free activities led by Berkshire Youth during the opening weekend, while additional storytelling and gallery sessions run on 11 and 13 June.

Unique experiences and family highlights

A standout feature includes bespoke dog “PAWtraits” by canine artist Dogs by Jeff, offering both live sittings and photo-based commissions.

These sessions are the perfect way to capture a unique snapshot of your four-legged friend. Please note, pre-booking is essential for these sessions.

For bookings and more information, visit thebasegreenham.co.uk/basefest.

Could this be the longest Morris dance in history?

Zoe Gater

One man will morris dance from London to Abingdon and back in just seven days, turning the Thames Path into a travelling folk festival while raising funds for six Thames Valley charities.


This May, the Thames Path will play host to a world-first challenge with a distinctly English twist. Duncan Bhaskaran Brown is attempting to morris dance 200 miles in seven days – from London to Abingdon and back – in a bid to set a new Guinness World Record.

Part endurance challenge, part travelling folk festival, 200 Miles of Morris will bring the Thames Path to life with ringing bells, flying hankies and a string of free performances in communities along the route.

And to make the record count, Duncan will dance every step of the way – maintaining the rhythm, footwork and spirit of morris across the full 200 miles. It’s a demanding physical test, powered by a commitment to keeping one of England’s oldest traditions alive.

The route traces some of the Thames Valley’s most scenic stretches, passing through Taplow, Reading, Windsor and Kingston upon Thames before returning to the capital.

“It’s going to be tough, but I’ve got a great team behind me,” Duncan says. “I’m so proud of the way the morris dancing community has come together to create this.”

Alongside the record attempt, the challenge is raising funds for six charities doing vital work across the region:

The Rowan Trust

Maidenhead Alzheimer’s Dementia Support

The Brain Tumour Charity

Thames Valley Adventure Playground

The Sherwood Foundation

and The Listening Post.

“We’re supporting some great charities from across the Thames Valley,” Duncan adds. “I’m so pleased we can support so many local charities that are important to local morris sides.”

Where to watch

That’s not all, each day finishes with a free public performance – no tickets, no booking, just turn up.

Highlights include:

Taplow – Sunday 10 May, 7pm
Reading – Monday 11 May, 7.30pm
Abingdon (Market Place) – Tuesday 12 May, 5pm
Windsor (Eton Bridge) – Thursday 14 May, 7.30pm
Kingston upon Thames (Eagle Brewery Wharf) – Friday 15 May, 7pm
Tate Modern, Bankside (grand finale) – Saturday 16 May, 3pm

Expect noise, colour and a proper celebration of English folk –with a potential world record landing at the finish line.

For more information, visit 200milesofmorris.co.uk or donate at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/duncan-bhaskaranbrown.

This Oxfordshire bakery is serving ice cream inside fresh croissants

Zoe Gater

Move over waffle cones, we’re eating ice cream from croissants now – thanks to Imma The Bakery.

One of the UK’s most talked-about bakeries, Imma The Bakery near Henley-on-Thames, is pushing pastry boundaries again – this time with a croissant–ice cream hybrid landing just in time for warmer weather.

From Sunday 10 May 2026, the team will be serving house-made ice cream nestled inside buttery, laminated croissants. And if you arrive early enough in the day, you’ll catch them still warm from the oven – hot, flaky pastry and cold, melting ice cream, yum!

In an Instagram post, the bakery said flavours will rotate with the seasons and “whatever we feel like making that week,” with customers also invited to suggest ideas for future menu specials.

The launch is the latest chapter in a fast-rising reputation for experimental baking. The Stoke Row bakery has built a cult following for its meticulous approach to fermentation, heritage grains, and viennoiserie – alongside a growing list of national accolades.

Most recently, Imma was crowned Ultimate Champion at the Britain’s Best Loaf 2026 competition, underlining its status as one of the UK’s most inventive artisan bakeries.

Beyond its headline-grabbing specials, the counter regularly features an evolving selection of baked goods. Expect jammy bear claws, apple turnovers, cinnamon croix (a hybrid between croissant and cruffin), chocolate éclairs, rhubarb and custard pastries, and pastel de nata – all made in limited batches that tend to sell out quickly.

Could you raise a future guide dog?

Zoe Gater

Together with Susie Dent, Guide Dogs is calling for volunteers in areas including Didcot and Thame to help care for these future companions.


Could you help adorable puppies become life-changing guide dogs? Leading UK charity Guide Dogs is looking for more volunteers to help raise guide dog puppies during their important first year.

Guide Dogs provides a wide range of services to support people with sight loss, as well as their families. This includes helping them develop the skills they need to live independent, active lives, and running events that bring together families navigating sight loss.

With more than 250 people starting to lose their sight every day in the UK, hundreds are currently waiting for a guide dog, and the need for puppy raisers in Oxfordshire and beyond has never been greater.

As a puppy raiser, you’ll give a 6–8-week-old puppy the vital foundation for its future role as a guide dog. You’ll care for the puppy for 12–16 months, supporting its training, socialisation, and introduction to new environments and experiences, all while providing a safe, loving home.

Plus, you’ll receive full training and ongoing support, with Guide Dogs covering all dog food and veterinary costs.

Susie Dent, Countdown icon and an ambassador for Guide Dogs, said: “Having taken part in a volunteering scheme with Guide Dogs myself, I know how rewarding the experience can be. But more people are needed to help raise the next generation of guide dogs, ready for life-changing partnerships with people with sight loss.

“I’d urge anyone who wants to make a real difference, and who has time, space and love to give to a future guide dog, to volunteer as a puppy raiser.”

To support even more people with sight loss, Guide Dogs is working to increase the number of puppies being raised in Oxfordshire.

Together with Susie Dent, the charity is calling for volunteers in areas including Didcot and Thame to help care for these future guide dogs.

To find out more about volunteering as a puppy raiser, visit guidedogs.org.uk/puppyraising.

Market House Reading levels up with new interactive golf simulator experience

Zoe Gater

Reading’s one-stop social destination is expanding with a new golf simulator, adding a fresh competitive edge for groups, corporate socials, and weekend celebrations.


Teed up for spring, Reading’s buzzing Market House has launched its new interactive golf simulator – simply step up, grab a club, and you’re ready to play.

The aim of the game is simple: land your putt in the right hole.

Each game gives you different targets to aim for, with the screen guiding you through the round. Take turns, line up your shot, and send the ball toward the hole you’ve been given. The system detects where it lands and updates the scores instantly.

Some games reward accuracy, some reward speed, and some are pure chaos. Either way, it’s quick to learn and surprisingly competitive once the bragging rights kick in.

The new experience joins an extensive line-up of games including shuffleboard, interactive darts, ping pong and the ever-popular karaoke shack.

Off the games floor, a packed weekly programme of DJs, drag performances and live sport screenings from football and rugby to F1 and more; keep the party going from the first sing to the last song. 

And there’s plenty on the menu to keep energy levels high, from stacked burgers and loaded fries, at the heart are Market House’s signature stone-baked pizzas, with standout combinations including hot honey and pepperoni; truffle and mushroom; and the Sticky Piggy topped with glazed pork bites. 

Behind the bar, classic beers, lagers and ales are joined by cocktails like the funky Disco Daze, bursting with citrus, and the Banana Bug, finished with blow-torched meringue, paired alongside spritz classics and sparkling coolers. 

Visit Market House Reading’s website for more information.

Road safety in focus at Newbury Neighbourhood Watch meeting this July

Zoe Gater

With a guest speaker, emergency service updates and a chance to connect with neighbours, this open community meeting offers a closer look at safety issues affecting the local area.

Locals are invited to a summer Neighbourhood Watch meeting in Newbury, featuring a guest talk from road safety charity RoadPeace, alongside updates from local emergency services.

Taking place on Wednesday 15 July 2026, the session begins at 7.15pm at Kersey Hall within the Waterside Centre (entrance via the side of Camp Hopson).

Guest speaker Kate Uzzell will be sharing insights into the work of RoadPeace, offering a closer look at road safety issues and support for those affected by road incidents.

Attendees can also expect updates from West Berkshire Police and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, providing the latest information on community safety across the district.

While there is no parking available at the venue itself, several public car parks are located nearby within easy walking distance.

The meeting is open to everyone, and residents are encouraged to come along and get involved in community safety discussions.

For more information, visit the Neighbourhood Watch Network website at ourwatch.org.uk.


Why Henley’s Bremont is putting British luxury watches back on the global map

Zoe Gater

With aviation heritage, engineering flair and a distinctly British approach to luxury timekeeping, Henley’s Bremont’s British style represents a moment in time.


In the rarefied world of luxury watches – one where Swiss mountains loom large over the industry – one British brand has quietly been proving that impeccable timekeeping doesn’t always need an Alpine accent. Step forward, Bremont, the Henley watch company that has become one of the UK’s proudest horological exports.

Founded in 2002 by brothers Nick and Giles English, Bremont began with a simple, ambitious mission: to bring serious mechanical watchmaking back to Britain. Inspired by their late father, an RAF pilot and aeronautical engineer, the brothers fused their love of aviation, engineering and adventure into a brand built for those who prefer their watches rugged, reliable and good-looking.

Fast forward two decades and Bremont is firmly on the global watch map. Its striking manufacturing headquarters, “The Wing”, just outside Henley, is where many of the brand’s precision components are crafted and assembled. Think of it as a temple to gears, springs and craftsmanship – with slightly more polish than your average garage workshop.

Bremont’s timepieces are often called “tool watches”, which is watch-world speak for pieces designed to handle real life. These are watches made to survive altitude, ocean depths and the occasional clumsy knock against a table after one too many espressos.

Equally important, aviation remains at the heart of the brand’s design DNA, with pilot-inspired chronometers sitting alongside rugged dive watches and elegant everyday models.

And if the watch world has a red-carpet moment, it’s undoubtedly Watches and Wonders Geneva. Held each spring in Switzerland, the event is the horological equivalent of fashion week – where collectors, journalists and watch obsessives gather to admire the latest creations from the world’s biggest brands.

For companies such as Bremont, it’s a chance to show that British watchmaking is not only alive and well, but ticking along very nicely indeed. Amid the centuries-old Swiss maisons, Bremont represents a younger, adventurous voice – one that pairs engineering precision with a quietly confident British aesthetic.

While luxury watches may be about precision timing, they’re also about personality. And Bremont’s personality is refreshingly straightforward: robust engineering, timeless design and just enough aviation swagger to make you feel like you should probably be piloting something. Or at the very least arriving fashionably on time – which, as any watch lover will tell you, is half the point.