Donnington & Co. launch bottomless afternoon tea experience

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

A limited-time afternoon tea experience in Berkshire adds a sparkling twist this spring, pairing traditional sweet and savoury favourites with free-flowing prosecco.

A new seasonal dining experience has arrived in Berkshire, as Donnington & Co. introduces a bottomless afternoon tea, for a limited time this spring.

Available throughout March and April 2026, the experience invites guests to enjoy two hours of prosecco alongside a traditional afternoon tea – offering a relaxed way to mark a special occasion or catch up with friends during the brighter months.

With the long bank holiday approaching, it also provides a timely option for those planning something a little different over the Easter weekend.

Designed for leisurely afternoons, the menu features a classic selection of finger sandwiches such as cucumber and cream cheese, prawn Marie Rose and free range Beachwood egg mayonnaise; paired with homemade cakes and an array of sweet treats – all inspired by seasonal ingredients.

The addition of bottomless prosecco for the full two-hour sitting brings a celebratory touch to the experience, making it well-suited to small gatherings, seasonal celebrations or simply an indulgent daytime outing.

Priced at £40 per person, the bottomless afternoon tea is available to book online via Donnington & Co.’s website.

With its combination of classic afternoon tea favourites and free-flowing drinks, the new launch offers a simple yet sociable way to make the most of the season in Newbury.

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Operation Mincemeat brings West End magic to Oxford stage this spring

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

Oxford welcomes the Olivier Award-winning musical Operation Mincemeat for a limited run, bringing a wildly inventive true wartime story and West End acclaim to the city stage.

Oxford is set to welcome one of the West End’s most talked-about productions as Operation Mincemeat arrives at New Theatre Oxford for strictly limited run from Tuesday 31 March to Saturday 4 April.

Fresh from sell-out success in London, this Olivier Award-winning musical brings its signature blend of comedy, music and wartime intrigue to the city for the first time.

With an extraordinary 113 five-star reviews to its name, the show has become a bona fide phenomenon. Audiences can expect a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud retelling of one of Britain’s most audacious intelligence operations during World War II.

Set in 1943, the story follows a daring plan in which British operatives used a stolen corpse and an elaborate fake identity to deceive Nazi forces.

Oxford’s connection to the story adds an extra layer of in trigue. Charles Cholmondeley, one of the key masterminds behind the real-life operation, studied at the University of Oxford before helping to devise the ingenious scheme.

Bringing the production to the city where part of its history began gives this tour stop particular resonance.

The show also boasts a strong contemporary Oxford link through Zoe Roberts, co-founder of comedy group SpitLip and co-creator of Operation Mincemeat. Her distinctive comedic voice is central to the musical’s success, seamlessly blending sharp satire with moments of genuine poignancy.

Producers are promisisng an unforgettable theatreical expereince, and anticipation is already building among local audiences eager to see what has become one of the UK’s must-see stage hits.

With its unique mix of history, humour and heart, Operation Mincemeat looks set to be a highlight of Oxford’s cultural calendar this spring.

Tickets are on sale now, but with demand high and the run limited, theatre lovers are encouraged to book soon to avoid missing out.

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Cookham author launches children’s book inspired by the Thames

Zoe Gater

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In an exciting new chapter for author and mum Amanda Boulding, Save Our River! has been published by The Lela Initiative as the first title in a new children’s series, The Willow Bank Tales.

For those living in Cookham and Marlow, the River Thames is a familiar and much-loved presence, winding gently through the landscape. Now it has become the inspiration for a new picture book carrying an important message for young readers.

Amanda’s Save Our River! is a gentle yet hopeful story aimed at Reception and Key Stage 1 children.

The book follows a family of otters who discover pollution flowing into their peaceful backwater. In one of the story’s most striking moments, the animals gather white shells and arrange them on the riverbank to spell out a powerful message: “SAVE OUR RIVER!”

Living close to the Thames in Cookham, Amanda has drawn heavily on the wildlife that can be spotted along the river locally. The pages are filled with her hand-drawn illustrations of willow-lined banks, darting kingfishers and, of course, the otters at the heart of the tale.

The book also marks a significant milestone for Amanda, who has recently signed with the publishing house The Lela Initiative. Save Our River! is the first title in the forthcoming series The Willow Bank Tales, which will introduce young readers to stories inspired by river life.

At its heart, the story celebrates teamwork, courage and caring for the places we love – a message that will resonate with families living along this treasured stretch of the Thames.

Save Our River! is available now from bookshops in Henley and Marlow.

For more information, visit amandaboulding.com.

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Over 100 cask ales on the lineup for Beerex 2026

Zoe Gater

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Get your taste buds ready to ‘drink for charity’ at the 48th Beerex this April 2026.

Beer fans can look forward to sampling more than 100 cask ales with an impressive lineup of new beers and specials to choose from at this year’s Farnham Beerex.

Taking place from Thursday 23 to Saturday 25 April 2026 at Farnham Maltings, alongside the extensive array of cask ales from near and afar, visitors can experience an enlarged craft bar offering a great range of keg beers, pilsners, lagers and international beers – all relocated into the Main Hall.

There’s also a new Cans Bar which will offer global beers, a selection of no/lo variants and for the first time, wines, ready-to-drink cocktails and spirit/mixers. And cider drinkers aren’t forgotten either, with more than 30 to choose from.

If you’re feeling peckish, tuck into traditional bangers, smoked and smashed burgers, as well as Thai and Indian cuisine provided by a collection of street food vendors, along with the Maltings own offering and vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Bringing the vibes, enjoy live music while you quaff at all sessions – excluding Friday lunchtime.

Beerex has now raised an impressive £1.1 million to support individuals, families and to fund local organisations providing specialist support within the community.

For more detail on what’s on offer at Farnham Beerex and to book tickets visit farnhambeerex.org.uk

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Haslemere Biodiversity launches series of free nature-focused events

Zoe Gater

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Nature recovery starts with us. That is the simple message from Haslemere Biodiversity, which says: “If we want nature to recover, we can’t wait for someone else to fix it.”

Haslemere Biodiversity is inviting residents to a series of public events exploring the Haslemere Nature Recovery Strategy (HNRS), a locally led plan to restore habitats, strengthen wildlife corridors and build resilience across the landscapes people depend on.

Across April and May 2026, the group will host four themed events, each focusing on a different strand of the HNRS.

Topics include woodlands and hedgerows, heath and grassland, aquatic habitats, and community spaces and wildlife gardening.

Each event will highlight projects and habitats linked to the theme. Partner organisations will also take part, including woodland charities, heathland specialists, water quality groups and community gardening networks.

The sessions aim to gather local insight, test project ideas and ensure the strategy reflects the knowledge of people who know the landscape best. Residents are encouraged to share ideas, concerns and local knowledge.

The team behind Haslemere Biodiversity said: “People who walk the footpaths, care for gardens, know the old field names, remember ponds that once held newts or have watched swifts return to the same street for decades – these are the experts plans like this need.

“Nature recovery does not happen only in remote reserves. It happens in churchyards, allotments, ponds, verges, school grounds, farms, gardens, footpaths and forgotten corners. It happens when communities stop waiting for saviours from above and start getting their hands dirty.”

Dr Philippa Guest, Chair of Haslemere Biodiversity, added: “What inspires me most is the way the community shows up for nature week after week. Our volunteers achieved extraordinary things in 2025, and we look forward to sharing news of a new biodiversity reserve later in 2026.”

To learn more or book a free ticket, visit haslemerebiodiversity.org.uk or follow Haslemere Biodiversity on social media.

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Daisy Sandwiches launches new food trailer popping up at events across Godalming

Zoe Gater

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Look out for a new trailer dishing up fresh sandwiches, savouries and sweet treats around Godalming as Daisy Sandwiches hits the road.

“These must be the best sandwiches in Godalming,” said one very happy customer of Daisy Sandwiches – and now locals will have even more chances to try them, with the launch of an eye-catching new food trailer popping up at events across the town.

Lizzie and James have been running Daisy Sandwiches at Godalming Station, serving commuters coffee and freshly made sandwiches, since taking over from James’s parents, who founded the family business in 2002.

Now, the couple are excited to bring their much-loved food to the wider community, with Daisy’s new trailer appearing at local events and gatherings.

Alongside the hand-prepared sandwiches that regulars already know and love, visitors can also expect homemade cakes and savouries, plus cold drinks and snacks – perfect for grabbing on the go.

All sandwiches are made to order using fresh, high-quality ingredients and locally baked bread. The menu is also designed with dietary needs in mind, with allergens catered for – something particularly important to Lizzie, who is gluten and dairy intolerant herself and understands how tricky it can be to find suitable options.

As part of the new venture, Daisy Sandwiches will also be supporting The Meath Epilepsy Charity, which has been providing specialist care and support for people living with epilepsy in the Godalming area for more than 130 years.

Keep an eye out for Daisy at upcoming local events including ChoirBlast, the Godalming Spring Festival on Friday 4 April 2026, Blackmoor Apple Day and more.

The trailer is also available to book for private events and parties.

For bookings or enquiries, call 07786 616221 or email daisytrailerevents@gmail.com.

For more information, visit daisysandwiches.co.uk.

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‘Working at The Beacon feels very much like coming home’ – meet the Amersham headmaster making a difference

Zoe Gater

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Amersham-raised Nick Baker returned to the area in 2022 to become headmaster of The Beacon School. As the prep prepares to welcome girls for the first time, he shares his thoughts on local life, education and the community he calls home.

Raised in Amersham, Nick Baker is headmaster of The Beacon School, a boys’ prep school. Since joining in 2022, he has focused on strengthening relationships, enhancing facilities and guiding pupils through their school journey – and soon, welcoming girls to the school as well.

Round & About speaks to Nick about family life and the local area, from his favourite independent businesses and restaurants to the exciting developments ahead at the school.

Hello Nick, please tell us about yourself!

I’m married to Brigid, also a teacher, and we have two sons, Patrick and Joseph. We’ve lived in Berkhamsted since leaving London when Patrick was born 20 years ago.

I grew up in Amersham and many of my friends and family still live in the area. Working at The Beacon feels very much like coming home.

Where did you go to school?

I went to Dr Challoner’s where many of our pupils transition to at the end of their time here. It was a great experience, from both an academic and social point of view. The head during my time, the legendary John Loarridge, ultimately became a good friend and a mentor as my career developed. On my 13th birthday, during school assembly, Mr Loarridge asked to see me in his study immediately after.

I was very nervous and worried about what I’d done wrong… but he simply wanted to give me a birthday card, containing a book voucher, as we shared the same birthday. We then exchanged birthday cards every year up until his passing in 2020. He was a truly great man, superb company and an inspiration as an educationalist.

What is your favourite local business?

JPS Stationers in Chesham – the owner is a massive Tintin fan, like me, and stocks all sorts of memorabilia.

I still read the books to this day, and I have all manner of posters and objects around my house and office.

What about your favourite local restaurant?

Laurie Gear, head chef and owner of The Artichoke in Old Amersham, is a great friend of The Beacon and judges our annual cooking competitions.

Dining at his restaurant is a truly special culinary experience.

Are you a member of any local groups?

My boys and I are Watford season ticket holders, and I am a governor of Watford Grammar School for Boys.

What do you most love about where you live?

Many of my school friends have moved back to Bucks and many of our parent body are old boys and local people; it’s not difficult to see why.

The beauty and tranquillity of the countryside here, yet still being able to access the vibrant urban areas of London and Oxford within the hour means you have the perfect work-life balance.

Tell us about some highlights you’re looking forward to at the school later this year

We’ve recently announced that, after 93 years of being all boys, The Beacon will be welcoming girls into our school from this year (in nursery) and through the rest of the school in 2027.

The excitement from my colleagues, our parents and the boys is palpable, and the school is alive with the opportunities to excel and develop the school in new areas – bring on the girls!

For more information about The Beacon School, visit beaconschool.co.uk.

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Watercress champion who dislikes it still unbeaten after 17 years

Zoe Gater

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A 17-time champion is gearing up for one of the UK’s quirkiest food contests – revealing what it really takes to win, why it’s harder than it looks and how he’s stayed on top for nearly two decades.

A long-standing champion is preparing to defend his crown at this year’s Alresford Watercress Festival – despite admitting he doesn’t actually like the leafy green at the centre of it all.

Glenn Walsh, 58, from the Alresford area, has dominated the World Watercress Eating Championship for an impressive 17 years.

Born and raised in Bishop’s Sutton, the self-employed fencer has become something of a local legend, even if his relationship with watercress is complicated.

Speaking about the contest, Glenn says: “I dread it and don’t actually like watercress much, but then my competitive nature and the pressure take over.”

The competition has changed significantly over the years. Originally focused on eating as much watercress as possible, it has since evolved into a speed challenge – with competitors racing to finish an 80g bag in the fastest time.

Glenn explains that success comes down to physical advantages and mindset, citing the importance of having “a big mouth” and being highly competitive.

While some may assume it’s an easy task, he is quick to challenge that perception: “It’s far from eating lettuce.”

He also draws comparison to how watercress is typically enjoyed, adding: “To me, watercress is a condiment… You wouldn’t eat a jar of mustard in one go.”

Despite the unusual nature of the contest, it remains a firm favourite with festivalgoers, drawing competitors from across the UK and beyond –including members of Glenn’s own family.

His children have all taken part over the years, with one daughter previously finishing as runner-up.

Injuries have not stopped his winning streak either. After undergoing ankle surgery, he once competed sitting down – and still came out on top.

Following a recent knee replacement, he is hoping to be back on his feet in time for this year’s event.

His fastest recorded time stands at 25.5 seconds, though he admits performances can vary from year to year.

For those thinking of entering, Glenn keeps his advice simple: “Enjoy it. Forget your dignity and your manners and just go for it!”

The World Watercress Eating Championship takes place at 1pm on Sunday 17 May 2026, with competitors able to sign up on the day.

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Buckinghamshire’s ‘Garden Fairy’ launches third book

Zoe Gater

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Since we last interviewed Anya Lautenbach, AKA “The Garden Fairy”, she has been appointed a National Garden Scheme ambassador – now, she’s just published her third book.

For gardeners of all levels, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching plants thrive under your care. Now local gardening expert and bestselling author Anya Lautenbach – known to her many followers as “Anya the Garden Fairy” – has distilled that joy and know-how into her latest book, The Money-Saving Gardener Containers.

The new guide shows how anyone can create a beautiful container garden all year-round without spending a fortune.

Whether you have a windowsill, balcony, courtyard or patio, Anya demonstrates how pots can become “little gardens that anyone can own,” bringing nature closer even in the smallest spaces.

Packed with practical advice, the book explores everything from choosing containers and repurposing everyday household items as planters to growing plants from seed, cuttings and free propagation.

Seasonal projects offer inspiration throughout the year – from cheerful spring bulbs to winter paperwhites – alongside tips on saving money on essentials like compost and water.

For Anya, gardening has always been about more than plants. Growing up in Poland, she remembers her family cultivating flowers and crops in pots on their balcony, learning to waste nothing and find happiness in simple things. After moving to the UK, container plants became a portable way of creating a sense of home wherever she lived.

Now based in Buckinghamshire, her own garden has flourished through years of propagation and thrifty techniques; knowledge she shares with more than a million followers online. Her work also highlights the wellbeing benefits of gardening, something she advocates through her writing and social media.

With inspiring displays for every season and practical guidance, The Money-Saving Gardener Containers proves that creating a thriving garden doesn’t have to cost the earth – just a little creativity, patience and love of growing.

For more information, visit anyalautenbach.com.

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Explore the countryside with Surrey Striders Nordic walking group

Zoe Gater

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Fancy giving Nordic walking in the Surrey Hills a go? Join Surrey Striders for a friendly workout – chat as you walk and soak up the glorious countryside.

There’s something rather special about striding out across the Surrey countryside with purpose. Nordic walking – using specially designed poles to propel you forward – turns an ordinary walk into a full-body workout, while still allowing time to chat and enjoy the view.

Vicky Goode, owner of Surrey Striders, teaches people how to Nordic walk with confidence and good technique.

Learning how to use the poles correctly is key: when done properly, Nordic walking engages the upper body, improves posture and increases calorie burn compared to regular walking, all without placing extra strain on the joints. It is suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.

Once you’ve learned the technique, weekly morning group walks are available on Thursdays and Fridays, and twice a month on Saturdays and Sundays.

Surrey Striders is launching a six-week Mindful Nordic Walking course at the beautiful Harry Edwards Healing Sanctuary in Shere, starting on Wednesday 25 March 2026.

These gentle 10–11am sessions combine expert tuition with moments of mindfulness, nature appreciation and balance. Encouraging participants to reconnect with their body, their mind and the natural world around them.

Whether enjoying birdsong on a quiet woodland trail or pausing to take in sweeping vistas across the Surrey Hills, time spent outdoors here has a powerful effect on both physical and mental well-being. Nordic walking simply enhances that experience.

Find out more at surreystriders.co.uk or call 07940 577487.

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