Join Launchpad’s Carols by Candlelight

Karen Neville

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Activities & Events

Homelessness charity’s festive evening at Reading Town Hall on December 5th will mix music, readings and tales of Launchpad’s work

Get ready to sing your heart out for a fabulous cause on Tuesday, 5th December when this year’s Carols by Candlelight takes place at Reading Town Hall from 6pm.

The festive evening will be hosted by Launchpad patron, Danyl Johnson and broadcast journalist and presenter at BBC Radio Berkshire, Bridgitte Tetteh.

Launchpad will be joined by the English Martyrs Primary School choir and Take Note Community choir. As well as seasonal songs there will be readings and inspiring stories about Launchpad’s work with people in housing crisis.

Every ticket sale for this unmissable evening will help Launchpad continue to provide homes for Reading’s most vulnerable this winter. Launchpad’s supported housing offers warm, clean, and safe accommodation for over 100 people in need – which are a lifeline to the many individuals, couples, and families at risk of, or who have already lost their homes.

Fiona Keyte, Fundraising Manager at Launchpad, said: “Every year people tell us that Carols by Candlelight marks the start of their Christmas celebrations. I’m really looking forward to hearing some great singing this year, while knowing that we’ll be helping people across Reading too.”

Tickets are £12 per person and under 3s can attend for free. There is unreserved seating but accessible seating can be requested at the point of booking. For more information and to buy your ticket, visit lpcarolsbycandle.eventbrite.co.uk

There will also be some incredible prizes to be won in our raffle on the night – including a £50 voucher for Bill’s restaurant, dinner for two in the Reading Room at The Roseate and a tour of the Double-Barrelled Brewery. Please bring cash or card with you to enter the raffle!

For anyone that is unable to attend, you can still support our work with a donation so we can help ensure local people have a roof over their head and a place to call home. Simply visit launchpadreading.org.uk/donate

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Stunning installations at Christmas at Kew

Karen Neville

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Activities & Events

Seven new displays as the UK’s original festive lights trail returns to Kew Gardens, November 15th to January 7th

Brand-new installations will showcase Kew Gardens in a whole new light, as the UK’s original festive light trail returns to the world-famous botanic gardens in London this November.

Since the inaugural Christmas at Kew trail in 2013, this unique event has paved the way for festive displays across the country. This year’s trail is a celebration of nature by night, bringing Kew’s incredible natural architecture to life. Visitors can expect the return of seasonal favourites alongside immersive new installations, seven of which are making their UK debut. Not to be missed, Christmas at Kew is enchanting seasonal experience for everyone to enjoy.

New installations for 2023

Bespoke new installations include Lili by TILT, a series of abstract, illuminated flowers that stand at almost three metres tall, towering over visitors. ArtAV return with Trapezoid, one of the longest light tunnels to ever feature at Christmas at Kew, and along Camellia Walk over 400 cascading lights are suspended from the tree canopy, set against an assortment of neon backdrops.

Elsewhere, the Hive – a stunning piece of contemporary artwork at Kew that recreates life inside a beehive – will feature in the trail for the first time. With its 1,000 LED lights aglow and an accompanying musical score, see this unique structure like never before as twilight descends across Kew Gardens.

Creative studio Pitaya return to Kew with Spark Ballet, 24 lanterns filled with subtly sparkling lights that appear to ‘dance’, and candles. This brand-new commission sees one hundred candles suspended in the air, magically appearing to float above visitors’ heads. The flickering flames will illuminate tree-lined passageways to create an enchanting festive atmosphere.

Festive favourites

With many of Kew’s 12,000 trees and other botanical treasures being accentuated along the route, visitors can wander beneath colourful canopies and bushes draped in seasonal sparkle, experiencing nature from a new perspective whilst treasuring the essential role that plants play in all our lives.

Other returning favourites include Kew’s famous Christmas Cathedral, a twinkling tunnel of light inspired by arched church windows, and a newly designed Fire Garden. Over 300 candles will line the path to the Temperate House, the oldest Victorian glasshouse in the world, as flame bulbs create the illusion that this cathedral of glass is glowing from within.

Elsewhere, visitors will be entranced as a series of breath-taking light displays dance across the surface of Kew’s iconic Palm House, and LED lights ‘float’ on the surface of the adjacent lake. This grand finale is set to a memorable playlist of much-loved Christmas classics, guaranteed to stir sentimental memories or provide a soundtrack for new traditions.

To add an extra touch of magic to the Christmas at Kew experience, visitors can book a delicious traditional Christmas dinner at The Botanical Brasserie. Indulge in celeriac and truffle soup, Caramelized shallot, beetroot and mushroom wellington or turkey ballotine stuffed with sausage meat, washed down by a warming glass of mulled wine. Kids favourites can be found at the Family Kitchen & Shop, and tasty treats from a selection of independent street food vendors are available along the route. Treat yourself to loaded hash browns, spiced cider, waffles or hot chocolate.

Sandra Botterell, Director of Marketing and Commercial Enterprise at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, said: “Christmas at Kew is a magical celebration of Kew’s natural landscape, offering sparkle and festivities during the winter months. With an incredible range of brand-new installations and some returning favourites, this year’s trail is guaranteed to be a seasonal spectacle like no other.”

At Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, Glow Wild celebrates a milestone 10 years. Bringing festive magic and wonder to the South East with 10 new installations and myriad hand-crafted lanterns, this winter lantern trail is not to be missed.

Tickets for Christmas at Kew and Glow Wild are available to purchase now at: Royal Botanic Gardens

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Remembrance Day film in Chipping Norton

Karen Neville

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Activities & Events

Watch screening of The Great Escaper and join Q&A at The Living Room Cinema

On Sunday 12th November, join The Living Room Cinema, Chipping Norton, for their next ‘In Conversation With’ screening

They’ll be welcoming producers Douglas Rae and Robert Bernstein to introduce, and speak about, their new film The Great Escaper, starring Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson.

This films tells the story of WWII veteran Bernie Jordan, who ‘escaped’ his Hove care home to attend the 70th Anniversary D-Day landing ceremony in Normandy, commemorating his fallen comrades.

Douglas and Robert will share what it’s like to adapt a film from a true story, bringing Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson back together after almost 50 years, and their reflections on the film’s poignance in light of Remembrance Sunday.

Douglas has worked on productions including Mrs Brown starring Judi Dench, Charlotte Gray starring Cate Blanchett, Becoming Jane starring Anne Hathaway and James McAvoy, and the BAFTA-nominated Nowhere Boy.

Robert has an equally impressive body of work, including producing alongside Douglas on Nowhere Boy and Becoming Jane, as well as producing Brideshead Revisited, The Water Horse, and many more fantastic films and television shows. 

Join this screening and fascinating Q&A on Remembrance Sunday at 12.30pm, and help to mark the occasion and remember those who sacrificed for us. 

Book tickets here.

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 Celebrate at The Shed this November

Karen Neville

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Activities & Events

There’s plenty to celebrate at The Shed this November, with a fireworks bonanza, a cosy comedy club and a Remembrance Day afternoon, plus Saturday Markets and Christmas Wreath workshops

The Shed has a sparkling selection lined up with some real fireworks throughout November with the return of the Cube Comedy Club as well as live music, quiz nights and the ever popular markets.

The venue offers the perfect backdrop for evenings of laughs and fantastic community events.

The Cube Comedy Club, 2nd November, 8pm

We’re back with a bang this November and continue to bring you the best of the best from the UK comedy circuit. This month features Matt Price, Eva Bindeman and Joey Page.

Eva Bindeman is a Bristol based, North East Comic bringing a warm, conversational sense of humour with a twist of the unexpected and named Funny Women “one to watch” in 2022.

Joey Page has been hailed as the future of stand up and is storming the circuit with his trail blazing brand of ‘Indie Comedy’ that’s surreal and inventive and has gained a big following during his time as support act for Noel Fielding on tour.

‘Conversations with Criminals’ podcast host Matt Price interacts with a crowd in a way that makes everyone in the room feel good. Matt’s stories are from the wilder side of life but surprisingly easy to relate to.

Firework Extravaganza, November 4th, 5-9pm

Get ready to light up the night sky with a FREE Firework Display on November 4th, with a night of dazzling lights, delicious treats, and fairground rides.

Head to Parade Square for a spectacular night of jaw-dropping fireworks at Whitehill and Bordon, with gates opening at 5pm and the breath-taking display commencing at 7pm, this event is not to be missed.

There will also be an array of exciting fairground rides for all ages. And when hunger strikes, indulge in mouth-watering meals from a selection of food trucks, offering sizzling burgers, hot dogs, delicious hog roasts, and a variety of sweet treats including donuts, waffles, and crepes.

Remembrance Sunday with Stephanie Bell, November 12th, 12-2pm

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of the 1940s as Stephanie Bell takes the stage gracing us with not one, but two captivating sets of music, each lasting 45 minutes. Absolutely free with no need to book, this is the perfect way to get the family together for an afternoon of remembrance and celebration.

Throughout November there are also the popular Saturday Markets on 11th and 25th November, as well as a Christmas Wreath Workshop at Bud Hut, where guests can learn how to create a stunning moss-based wreath adorned with seasonal natural accessories.

You can find the full line-up of all upcoming events at The Shed here: theshedwb.com/shed-events

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Ally Pally fireworks festival banger’s back

Liz Nicholls

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Activities & Events

On Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th November Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival is back with a bang, starring live music, Dj sets and entertainment, climaxing in an epic fireworks display above the iconic hill view.

Sad that festival season is drawing to a close? Us too! But good news: the Glastonbury of fireworks is back!

Yass: on Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th November book in to experience foot-stomping live music, a taste of Bavaria at the UK’s largest German Bier Festival with sets from tribute acts Joel Coombes: Elton John and Rogue Minogue: Kylie, plus legendary DJ sets in the StrEATlife Village courtesy of none other than Fat Tony and UK garage pioneer DJ Spoony. Enjoy mind-blowing lightning magic from Lords of Lightning, a whizz around the ice rink to a disco soundtrack and, last but not least, lighting up the London skyline with our legendary fireworks display!

Firmly established as one of the biggest and best fireworks events in the country, this year’s highlight will include a stunning programme of live music, DJ sets and entertainment spread across the park and palace’s 196 acres.

The park will also play host to a huge bonfire, funfair and entertainment for all the family. Meanwhile, over in the StrEATlife Festival Village, you’ll find more than 35 of London’s top street food vendors, craft beer bars and cocktails. Live performers and resident DJs will provide the vibes.

Visitors can also step inside the palace, with the ice rink featuring a variety of skating sessions and ice disco. The Great Hall will be transformed into the UK’s largest German Bier Festival, with music coming from the likes of Joel Coombes, Elton John tribute act (Friday) and Rogue Minogue (Saturday).

With Alexandra Palace celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023, this year’s event continues the tradition of spectacular displays held in the palace grounds, dating back to the late 19th century. This has included astonishing recreations of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in The Last Days of Pompeii and Destruction of the Spanish Armada on the boating lake.

Boom! Ally Pally has been letting off zingers, sending up sky rockets and spinning Catherine wheels into London’s heavens for 150 years! The Friday offers wall-to-wall club classics and on the Saturday relive your favourite movie moments with some of the best film soundtracks of all time.

Book your tickets at Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival

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Lucy Benjamin, Guildford panto star Q&A

Liz Nicholls

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Activities & Events

We chat to EastEnders star, actor Lucy Benjamin who stars as Cinderella’s Wicked Step Mum in the Yvonne Arnaud’s pantomime this year.

Hello Lucy! What’s your first memory of pantomime?

“My first memory of panto, is back when I was five or maybe six when my Grandma took me to Camberley to see Jim Davidson playing Buttons in Cinderella. I even remember getting a merchandise pen! This was a bloomin’ long time ago!”

Q. What are your earliest memories of TV and what’s your favourite soap nowadays?

“I remember watching Bagpuss, Mr Benn, Camberwick Green and Trumpton; I was an avid TV watcher even from a very early age. My fave soap is currently EastEnders because I’ve just been back on the square and got right back into watching it.”

Q. Who was your hero growing up? And now?

“My mum was my hero growing up and still is now. Mums are the best!”

Q. How do you feel about this production of Cinderella?

“I’m delighted to be playing The Wicked Step Mum in Cinderella this year and stepping into the Uglies’ shoes, as there’s nothing more fulfilling than to be playing a baddie, when I’ve spent a lot of my panto years being the goodie. Bring it on!”

Q. Who is the ‘baddest’ pantomime and soap villain of all time?

“I remember performing alongside Kate Omara in Dick Whittington in Dartford one year and realising that it was probably one of the best and sexiest panto villains I’d ever seen. My favourite soap baddie has to be Dirty Den in EastEnders… Phil Mitchell can give him a run for his money though too!”

Q. What is the weirdest or most touching piece of fanmail you have received?

“The weirdest fan thing that’s ever happened to me was that a woman once turned up at stage door at the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton during panto season and proceeded to show me a tattoo she’d had done on her thigh of my face! I think she went on to truly regret it, as you would.”

Q. Do you love Christmas and what does the festive season look like in your household?

“I love the Christmas holidays and all the food and drink that goes with being with the family over an extended time. Although I do find cooking Christmas dinner very stressful.”

Q. What’s your favourite piece of music and who’s your favourite singer?

“My favourite artist at the moment is Labi Siffre and the track Lying, Laughing, Loving, Crying.”

Q. What is your favourite book?

“My favourite book as a child was always The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton, and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, which ignited my love of reading for the rest of my life!”

Q. What do you most love about Berkshire & Bucks and how was it as a place to grow up?

“I went to Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead from the age of nine to 17, so have very fond memories of spending many of my formative years in Berkshire. I was also born in Reading, so I have a very local connection.”

Q. How about Surrey – will you and the cast & crew go out in Guildford during the production run?

“I’m sure there will be a little bit of socialising with the cast and crew during the panto run, but trust me, doing two shows a day is no mean feat!”

Q. What advice would you have for any youngsters who are interested in acting?

“My advice to any youngsters wanting to go into acting is to pursue your dreams, but always make sure you have an education to fall back on in order to give you as many strings to your bow as possible if things don’t work out. It’s a tough old business.”

Q. Finally, if you could make one wish for the world, what would it be?

“I’m no Greta Thunberg, so my best (cheesy) answer to this question, is for everyone that can or is able to, to come and see our fabulous panto at the Yvonne Arnaud this year and make the most of the festive period! You won’t be disappointed!

You’re all invited to the ball! Cinderella, 2nd December to 7th January: book your tickets at Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

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Psycho Path pub trail in Newbury

Karen Neville

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Activities & Events

Newbury Business Improvement (BID), the organisation behind Visit Newbury, has unveiled the Psycho Path Pub Trail, a unique Halloween experience for adults only! On Friday 27th October, this immersive event will transform five central Newbury pubs into realms of fright and delight

Newbury’s answer to the famous Fright Night is free to attend and includes some of the town’s most popular watering holes, including Slug & Lettuce, The Newbury, The Catherine Wheel, The Old Waggon & Horses, and The Lock Stock & Barrel.

Expect a thrilling and eerie experience as you’re captivated by skilled actors portraying beloved characters such as Snow White, Belle, Jack and Sally, Alice in Wonderland, and the Mad Hatter. These performers will immerse you in a world filled with dramatic flair, spine-tingling moments, and much more.

Each pub will be home to spooktakular scenes from infamous horror movies which will provide a fantastic different selfie opportunity in each participating venue, including the iconic Psycho shower scene by Alfred Hitchcock, a meticulously handcrafted electric chair reminiscent of The Green Mile, and a macabre assortment of likelike human body parts the butcher Sweeny Todd would be proud of.

These haunting locations are the perfect backdrop for visitor selfies, so be sure to dress to impress in your finest Halloween attire!

The Psycho Path Pub Trail is your local, cost-effective for a Halloween night out. There will be free shots available for those who sign up early on the Visit Newbury website. (1 x free shot per participant per venue)

Pub trail participants should make their way to Newbury town centre on 27th October, where the event kicks off at 7pm. Participating venues will be marked, so you can plot your spooky route with ease.

Visit Newbury’s Halloween events include the Ghost Town Shop Trail, a Halloween themed fright-night Psycho Path Pub Trail, and a Spooktakular Window Competition where town-centre businesses are encouraged to dress up their windows as part of the Halloween festivities.

Alison Drummond, Operations Manager at Newbury BID said: ” Halloween seems to be getting bigger every year, and we want to live up to expectations with our latest Psycho Path Pub Trail which we first launched last year and was a huge success. Alongside the Ghost Town Shop Trail for the little ones, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Newbury this October. Dust off your costumes, gather your friends, and prepare for a night of screams and laughs at the Psycho Path Pub Trail!

“If you’re planning to host your own Halloween gathering, why not bring the festivities to the town centre instead? With a line-up of live performers, the Psycho Path Pub Trail is the perfect place to celebrate with friends and fellow Halloween enthusiasts.”

To find out more about the free Psycho Path Pub Trail and sign up for your free shots, head to the Visit Newbury website: Visit Newbury.

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Newbury’s free ghost town shop trail

Karen Neville

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Activities & Events

Newbury Business Improvement District (BID), the organisation behind Visit Newbury, has a thrilling free experience for families this October half term: the Ghost Town Shop Trail

Newbury, a town steeped in history, is home to many eerie tales. In the Market Place, the ghost of Thomas Barrie forever moans, punished for treason by having his ears removed. Nearby, The Catherine Wheel pub harbours a mischievous poltergeist who likes to pull hair and throw glasses.

From 25th to 28th October, some of Newbury’s most beloved shops around Bartholomew Street will embrace this spooky past, being transformed into hauntingly delightful destinations for children to trick or treat as they hunt for Halloween posters in shop window.

The trail features 10 fantastic local independent businesses, including The Goan Caff, The Freakshow, The Dolphin, Willow & Blooms, Salon 46, Hethertons Bakery, La La Vintage, TaxAssist Accountants, The Ugly Duckling, and The Rufus Coffee House.

Kick off at the Kennet Centre with each shop offering chocolates and sweets to celebrate the spooky season. Costumes are encouraged! Throughout the day free Halloween spooky makeovers will be offered at a face painting station in the Kennet Centre between 10am and 2pm. The event will also boast a number of offers and prizes including Lego Star Wars sets – did you know Star Wars has filmed just up the road at Greenham Common? Other spine-chillingly good prizes up for grabs include Vue Cinema family vouchers and a Nando’s family meal voucher, so be sure not to miss out!

This event aims to provide a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treating experience for families seeking accessible and engaging activities for their children over the half-term break.

The Ghost Town Shop Trail offers a comfortable alternative for families looking to experience the joy of trick-or-treating without worrying about knocking on unfamiliar doors.

Alison Drummond, Operations Manager at Newbury BID, said: “We can’t wait for the Ghost Town Shop Trail in October. With some fantastic local businesses involved, fun prizes and, of course, chocolate up for grabs, the four-day event promises to be great and provide a great showcase for our much-loved Independents down in Bartholomew Street – otherwise unofficially known as the Southern Quarter!”

Visit Newbury’s Halloween events include the Ghost Town Shop Trail, a Halloween themed fright-night Psycho Path Pub Trail, and a Spooktakular Window Competition where town-centre businesses are encouraged to dress up their windows as part of the Halloween festivities.

Families wanting to get involved should stroll down Bartholomew Street and the surrounding areas between October 25th and 28th. The participating shops will be visibly marked, making it easy for families to plot their Halloween adventure.

To find out more about the free Ghost Town Shop Trail, sign up for your trail card and read the Terms & Conditions, head to the Visit Newbury website: Visit Newbury

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Spooky half term fun at Squire’s

Round & About

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Activities & Events

Create & Grow activities to keep your little monsters entertained this October

Squire’s Garden Centres is looking forward to welcoming young visitors for some half term with some spooky themed activities, running Monday 23rd-Friday, 27th October.

Children are invited to come along and paint a spooky tealight holder as well as enjoy a FREE ghost hunt (and fancy dress is welcome too!). Squire’s popular Create & Grow event for children is the perfect way to fill a morning over October half term with some fun creative craft activities which include painting a ceramic witch’s hat* tealight holder (priced £6.50). Once finished, it can be taken home – along with a complimentary battery-operated LED tealight – to brighten a bedroom or corner of the house during the dark, spooky evenings that lie ahead from half-term onwards. Advanced booking is required – which can be done online or in-store. The painting activity lasts approximately 20 minutes and should be booked in advance, with visitors invited to go to the information desk on arrival.

In addition, there is also a FREE Ghost Hunt with clues to find along the trail around the garden centre to complete a spooky word – with a ghost-themed sticker to receive on completion (no booking required).

A half-term visit to enjoy some ‘spooky’ fun at Squire’s can be extended with a visit to the popular Café Bars at all centres and a light bite from the ‘Little Gardener’s’ menu. There will be plenty to match the hunger of the spooky crafters, while adults may choose an autumn-themed treat and a welcome rest.

Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire’s Garden Centres, said: “Once again we are delighted to be able offer families something fun to look forward to for October half-term and the autumn season. Children seem to love this week in our centres and we’re sure the tealight holder activity will capture young imaginations. I am sure there will be an amazing variety of decoration and I hope children will enjoy their creations at home during the darker evenings to come.”

Enjoy Halloween fun at a centre near you at Badshot Lea, Cobham, Frensham, Hersham, Long Ditton, Milford, Shepperton, West Horsely, Woking and Wokingham.

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M&S Aylesbury colleague celebrates 40th anniversary

Karen Neville

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Activities & Events

Bra fitter Julie Walters joined more than 50 colleagues at an event in London marking her years of service for the high street retailer

Julie Walters, a bra fitter at Marks & Spencer in Aylesbury is celebrating her 40th year working for the high-street retailer. Julie recently travelled to London to join M&S colleagues from across the country, all of whom were celebrating milestone anniversaries, ranging from 25 to 50 years. More than 200 colleagues attended the event and were congratulated by M&S Co CEO, Katie Bickerstaffe and thanked for their dedication and service.

M&S has been part of many special memories for Julie over the last 40 years, having worked at the store since she joined M&S in October 1982. Julie has spent her whole career working at the Aylesbury store where she specialises as a bra fitter.

Julie loves to help people and has found the role extremely rewarding over the years, from helping pregnant women or first-time mothers pick a new bra, to supporting transgender customers and young girls pick out their very first bra. A particular highlight was when a pregnant customer Julie helped pick out bras for named her son after Julie’s son! M&S is truly Julie’s second home, working with colleagues she calls friends, many of whom have been with the store for more than 20 years, including her best friend, Cassie McVeigh.

Julie said: “It’s honestly been an amazing experience working at M&S over the years. So much has changed but one thing remains the same, the people – both colleagues and customers – are the best! My passion for helping people has never diminished and I’m so grateful I’ve been able to work in a job I love for so many years. I’d like to thank M&S for all the wonderful memories I’ve made with the company and for the fabulous trip to London – I had a great time!”

Natalie Moon, Store Manager at M&S Aylesbury said: “There’s no doubt about it, Julie is an integral part of the team and has had a huge part to play in our success over the years. Having served M&S for a number of years with her tremendous bra fitting expertise, she has not only been able to make customers feel at ease, she’s also worked with the team to train colleagues and pass on her knowledge. I’d like to thank Julie for her years of service to M&S – it’s truly an honour to celebrate this milestone with her!”

To find out more about working for M&S, and the roles and training available, visit M&S Careers.

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