Twelve wild days of Christmas

Karen Neville

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Oxfordshire

Fox © Jon Hawkins

Karen Neville

, , , ,

12 Days Wild is the festive challenge by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife (BBOWT), from 25th December to 5th January.

Are you up for the challenge of doing one wild thing every day or night…?

Sign up at 12 Days Wild (2024) | Berks Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust and you’ll receive daily inspirational emails packed with fun ideas to help you embrace winter walks in nature or the magic of night-time star gazing – to lift your mood and much more!

Illustration © Corinne Welch

You could:

• Track animals by looking for footprints in the mud or snow
• Go star gazing on a clear night
• Go winter wildlife watching on a walk at a nature reserve
• Or even volunteer at a nature reserve – nature will appreciate it
• Make a New Year’s resolution to help nature. What will you do in 2025?

BBC TV presenter and Wildlife Trust Vice President Iolo Williams, says: “From dawn to dusk, winter wildlife is busy all around us. Otters are always up early and if you see a trail of bubbles in the water, you’ll know they’ve spotted you first. Night-hunting barn owls venture out on cold winter days to find extra food and will woosh past you in the winter sun. Then, at dusk, starlings gather in the sky forming ever-shifting shapes and patterns known as murmurations. There are so many wildlife adventures to be had during 12 Days Wild – I hope you enjoy them.”

Liz Shearer, Community Engagement Director at BBOWT says: “To mark 12 Day Wild this year I’ll be pledging to connect with nature for at least 10 minutes every day. Whether it be a walk amongst the winter trees, watching birds in a tree across a cold and frosty park, or noticing the clouds on a bright day, I often find that stepping outside and taking a moment to connect with wildlife is a powerful way to recharge my batteries. 12 Days Wild is a great opportunity to create some space for yourself, which at this time of year can feel like a real gift.

“Committing to something manageable will make it even more enjoyable. Observe how weather changes the landscapes and check in with yourself – how do you feel within them? Noticing our own relationship with the natural world is the first step to taking action to safeguard it. So, I encourage you to stop for a moment, listen, and see what wild means to you.”

Spending time in nature – night or day – is proven to help people feel happier and healthier. A Wildlife Trusts’ survey found that participants of the 30 Days Wild summer challenge felt 56% more connected to nature after taking part, and that it boosted the health of participants by an average of 30%.*

There’s more information on the challenge at: 12 Days Wild | The Wildlife Trusts

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Join Ben’s hike to support veterans

Liz Nicholls

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Oxfordshire

Liz Nicholls

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Ben Scurr is stepping up to help the military charity Walking With The Wounded to raise funds for veterans and their families. Could you join him?

An Oxfordshire wellbeing and physical fitness business specialising in outdoor fitness and adventures, led by local man Ben Scurr, is taking part in the Walking Home Campaign this winter to raise funds for veterans and their families.

The initiative aims to raise funds to support WWTW’s vital mental health, employment, and social care services for veterans. Project Active will host walks on 1st December and 1st January and invites anyone in the local community to join them.

Ben says: “My grandparents served in World War Two, and other family members have been in military service over the years, so I’ve always had the utmost respect and gratitude for those who dedicate themselves to something greater than them. I was keen to pursue a career in the military myself, but unfortunately due to an injury that dream was not realised, so I instead embarked on an alternative path, which led me to become an Outdoor Fitness and Neuro-Linguistic Programming coach, and I now operate Project Active. Project Active is all about helping people relaunch and rediscover themselves through both mental and physical approaches, and our mission aligns perfectly with the work of Walking With The Wounded, so signing up to Walking Home felt like a natural step.

“We’re organising two walks that we invite people to join us for, one on the 1st December and one on 1st January, both in Woodstock. We are really proud to be supporting this cause, so we hope to get as many people as possible joining us and donating to Walking With The Wounded.”

The Walking Home campaign was launched by former Army Reservist and presenter of the BBC’s Escape to the Country, Jules Hudson. Jules took part in a sponsored walk at Monmouth Castle where his former regiment, the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers, is stationed. Alongside him were local cadets from Gwent and Powys Army Cadet Force and Monmouth School Combined Cadet Force.

Latest research commissioned by WWTW shows six out of 10 veterans at least sometimes experience feelings of loneliness, a 10% increase on the same statistic for the general public. As daylight hours decrease during winter, it’s common for feelings of loneliness to increase, meaning now is the time to show support for our veterans.

As well as combating loneliness, this year’s motto of Let’s Talk looks to encourage conversations about mental health more widely. The research highlighted outdoor exercise as veterans’ most popular mental health boosting activity, a contrast to the general public which showed socialising with friends and family as its primary mental health booster. Data also showed 90% of veterans agree that the key to improving mental health is spending sufficient time outdoors.

Jules says: “I am immensely proud to be supporting such a worthy fundraising campaign. Veterans are rightly admired for their courage in serving our country yet the mental, physical, and social challenges they face when returning to civilian life can easily be lost on us as the general public.
“By taking part in this year’s Walking Home fundraiser, I hope to inspire as many Brits as possible to follow suit in contributing to the excellent work Walking With The Wounded continues to do for our veterans.”

Tony Hulton, WWTC CEO, added: “The festive season is an ideal time for friends, families, and service members to come together to tackle the winter blues, enjoy the outdoors, and take on a sponsored walk to support those who served. This year’s Walking Home. Let’s Talk campaign encourages everyone to break the silence around mental health and start meaningful conversations. A huge thank you to all who have already signed up for Walking Home. Your support will help transform the lives of veterans and their family members.”

As well as supporting veterans with mental health, physical health, and social support, another key focus is to educate the general public on the often misunderstood struggles veterans’ face post-service. Over half (54%) of the general public feel upholding mental health is the biggest challenge facing veterans when returning to civilian life.

Yet, when asked on whether they feel veterans receive the appropriate level of mental health support, just 21% of the general public agreed, highlighting how this year’s Walking Home fundraising effort is the ideal time to take part in supporting our veterans this winter.

To add to the more than £2 million raised in the past decade of the annual Walking Home fundraisers, 2024’s participants are invited to once again take on a sponsored walk alongside friends, family, or colleagues. There is no minimum distance or fundraising target.

Sign-up today at Walking Home – Lets Talk

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Vicar Sam Brewster’s journey to faith

Liz Nicholls

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Oxfordshire

Liz Nicholls

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Sam Brewster, Trinity Henley’s new vicar, shares his thoughts about his journey as he prepares to take over the friendly flock from Duncan Carter

Two things have filled my Decembers the last few years: Jesus and 5ks. The 5ks have been a more recent addition since my brother-in-law introduced me to the concept: run 5k every day in December. Including Christmas Day. Even when you’re a vicar. Which brings me to the first thing that fills my Decembers: Jesus. I’ve recently been appointed as the vicar of Holy Trinity Church Henley. It’s a dream job: filling my hours with a single task – helping people get to know Jesus better. As you can imagine, there are also quite a few nuts and bolts that need attending to, and it’s strikingly easy for vicars like me to lose track of the big thing we’re meant to be all about. But the heart of the job is clear and glorious.

My journey to Christian faith was a somewhat meandering one. Mum and Dad are Christians and did a wonderful job encouraging us all to church, which I and my two siblings generally loved. But like so many things in life, it’s easy to underappreciate what you have always grown up with. It wasn’t till I attended a summer holiday camp run by Christians that I engaged more personally with Jesus. It dawned on me then that Jesus was real, and was calling me personally to follow him. It also stuck me that Jesus was much better than I had previously realised. He wasn’t an unattainable moral example which I should strive, but always fail, to match. He wasn’t a kindly, but slightly disapproving headteacher figure up above. I encountered a Jesus who pulsated with life, and was constantly giving himself out to others in love. I still remember when the penny dropped about his death on the cross. It wasn’t just an inspiring gesture of self-sacrifice. It was an actual sacrifice for me. Jesus died for me. Such was his love that he effectively said: you’re in a mess you can’t get yourself out of; you’ve rejected God and deserve his rejection. But God loves you, and I’m here to lift you out of the mess, and back into a relationship with God. The only way that can happen is if I die for you. So be it.’

Following Jesus is like seeing the world in colour for the first time. Everything makes sense. But it’s no easy path. Jesus called it ‘the narrow way’. There have been plenty of times I’ve nearly fallen off that narrow way. Thankfully, Jesus doesn’t just set us off along it with a ‘good luck – hope to see you at the end!’ Rather, he walks with us every step of the way: Leading us through times of tragedy and sadness, guiding us back on track when we wander away, and gently reminding us of his love through it all.

For me that pathway led me through some years leading youth work at a church in Leicestershire, a call to get ordained in the Church of England, a happy three years at Wycliffe Hall, a vicar college in Oxford, meeting my wife Lucy who was training to be a teacher at the same time. After five happy years working as a curate at St Mary’s Church Maidenhead, we moved to Henley in 2018, with two small children (three and 18 months at the time), and a vision to launch a new Sunday congregation to reach out to the many families in Henley with the good news of Jesus.

Six years on, and it’s been an amazing journey to look back on. We’ve now got four kids (Amelie – nine, Jojo – seven, Barney – four and Esther two!). Our new congregation, Trinity at Four (meeting each Sunday at 4pm) has grown. We now regularly have 70 adults and 50 children Sunday by Sunday. We have fallen in love with Henley – not just the place, but the people. It’s been a wonderful privilege to help lots of people from lots of different starting points get to know Jesus better. It’s been wonderful to see so many children and young people. It’s been amazing to serve the wider community with mid-week baby and toddler groups and after-school clubs.

And now, a new chapter, as Trinity Church’s much loved and long-standing vicar, Duncan retires, and I step into the role. As well as continues to lead our 4pm congregation, I’m now also lead our 10am service and take responsibility for ministry in the parish as a whole. I’m excited to keep doing what I’ve always been most passionate about: helping people get to know Jesus better. I hope that Trinity Church Henley will be a place full of the life and love of Jesus, and where many more people in and around Henley, young and old, can get to know Jesus better themselves. Why not come join us one of these days? We’d love to see you! And now I’d better get on with today’s 5k.

Christmas Services 2024

Sunday, 15th December, 4pm – Community Carols 

Sunday, 22nd December, 10am – All Age Carol Service. 7pm – Candlelit Carols 

Tuesday, 24th December, 4pm – Christingle, 7pm – Candlelit Carols, 11.30pm – Midnight Communion 

Wednesday, 25th December, 10am – Christmas All Age Celebration 

All services will be held at Holy Trinity Church, RG9 1SE. No booking required. 

Follow the Star 2024 

Take a magical journey through the first Christmas story. An interactive, immersive experience for the whole family, 13th-14th December. Book your free place today at Christmas 2024 | Trinity at Four. 

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Eco Elves Teddy Trade in Wycombe

Liz Nicholls

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Oxfordshire

Liz Nicholls

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From Saturday, 30th November, until Christmas, children can transform their old teddies into new ones at Eden Shopping Centre

Mrs Claus and her eco elves are back at Eden, ready to welcome little ones into a world of enchantment.

Children can transform their old teddies into new ones and experience the magic of giving in a festive and eco-friendly way.

In the spirit of giving, all pre-loved teddies will be donated to Stokenchurch Dog Rescue, where they’ll help bring Christmas cheer to rescue dogs waiting for a loving home. And to make this season of goodwill even brighter, 100% of ticket sales will go to local charities, with support from Heart of Bucks.

Rebecca Gomme, marketing manager at Eden Shopping Centre, said: “We’re thrilled to bring back our Eco Elves. Building on the success of last year’s Eco Elves Tree-Cycle, where children transformed magic beans into miniature Christmas trees; this year the focus is on upcycling teddies. Mrs Claus can’t wait to welcome all the children and giving them a fun and engaging way to learn about sustainability and showing that even small actions – like repurposing toys – can make a big difference.”

For those without a teddy to trade, a selection of spares will be available, ensuring every child leaves with a special friend dressed in a cosy Christmas jumper.

Tickets for Eden’s Eco Elves Teddy Trade are £3.50 & booking fee and must be pre-booked and are available via the Eden Shopping Centre website. 100% of sales will go to charities, with support from Heart of Bucks.

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Taste nostalgia at Six by Nico

Karen Neville

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Oxfordshire

Karen Neville

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Running for six weeks, December 16th to January 26th, this latest cast of courses brings a delicious return to the past

Get ready to taste your way down memory lane. Six By Nico, Oxford, is serving up deja food with its latest six-course tasting menu, Nostalgia.

Perfectly timed for the festive season, this menu captures the nostalgic magic of Christmas and New Year. Diners will have the chance to relive the joy of their childhood through flavours that feel like home, while younger guests can ride the wave of a golden era and experience delicious retro moments for the first time. 

It’s a menu that brings the taste of yesteryear to life, with each dish crafted to capture those classic flavours and playful twists from the past – think the comforting bite of a fish finger sarnie, the warm, smoky flavours of a campfire feast and the unmistakable nostalgia of a VHS-era movie snack.

Known for reinventing its menu every six weeks, Six by Nico transports diners to new worlds with each visit. With Nostalgia, its inviting guests to enjoy a taste of the past, where familiar favourites get a fresh, modern twist. Each plate offers a delicious reminder of childhood memories, reimagined with inventive flair, one playful bite at a time.

Chef Nico Simeone, the creative mind behind Six by Nico, reflects on the inspiration for the menu: “Our final menu of 2024 and the first of 2025 pays homage to nostalgia, inviting guests on a journey through flavours that evoke personal memories. Inspired by reflections on my childhood, it draws on moments spent watching films, playing games, or enjoying time outdoors with friends.

“While New Year often focuses on resolutions, this menu celebrates traditions and revisits the timeless magic of Christmas through familiar and comforting tastes.”

Priced at £50 per person, bookings are now open for a taste of Nostalgia at Six by Nico, Oxford. Guests can also enjoy their meal with either optional wine or cocktail pairings. Each course is crafted to bring back fond memories of childhood favourites, reimagined with a modern twist, while letting the festivities linger just a little longer.

Here’s a throwback to the childhood favourites diners can look forward to:

Snack – ‘Space Raiders’

Crushed Baby Potato, Pickled Onion, Garlic Emulsion & Fermented Melon Hot Sauce

Course 1 – ‘Blockbuster’

Aged Comté, Hazelnut & Serrano Ham in a “Taco”

Course 2 – ‘Super Mario’

Roasted Maitake, Smoked Celeriac, Cep Gnocchi, Lovage, Truffle & Sherry Cappuccino

Course 3 – ‘Let’s Go Camping!’

Smoked Pork Sausage, Aged Belly, Red Pepper Romesco, Nasturtium & Almond

Course 4 – ‘Fish Fingers’

Barbecue Coley, Miso Carrot, Lobster Emulsion

Served with a Crispy Fish Finger, Shellfish Bisque & Salted Kumquat

Course 5 – ‘Guess Who’

A classic game inspires our dish, but can you Guess Who?

Course 6 –  ‘SNOWBALL FIIIIGHT’

Coconut Parfait, Lime Gel, 55% chocolate & Yoghurt “Snow”

Book at Nostalgia – Oxford – Six By Nico

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Pantomime japes, jeers & jokes

Karen Neville

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Oxfordshire

Karen Neville

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Love them or loathe them, pantomimes are most people’s first introduction to the theatre, the tales of good triumphing over evil are as old as time but that doesn’t stop their enduring allure. So book your tickets and take your seat…

Boo, hiss or sealed with a kiss, if it’s December then it must be panto month so start practising your jeering and cheering and tuck into those sweets as you enjoy the tale of Sleeping Beauty at Oxford Playhouse. Evil fairy curses baby, baby grows into a beautiful teenage princess, princess pricks her finger on a spindle and… time travels across 1,000 years. Oh no, she doesn’t? Oh yes, she does in this spellbinding new production. This Aurora must summon all of her fairy-given gifts – true friendship, intelligence, bravery and a good night’s sleep (along with a teddy bear and a mysterious 1985 Smash Hits Yearbook) to put things right and regain her rightful place in the kingdom of Oxland. Find out if she succeeds until Jan 5th. Tickets at Sleeping Beauty | Oxford Playhouse

If you fancy a trip to the theatre but without the booing and hissing and calls of ‘he’s behind you’ then how about the powerful emotive First World War tale War Horse, Dec 10th-Jan 4th at New Theatre, Oxford. The National Theatre production takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of France. Filled with stirring music and songs, at its heart are astonishing life-sized horses by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, who bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to thrilling life on stage. Tickets from War Horse Tickets | New Theatre Oxford in Oxford | ATG Tickets In the new year look out for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jan 7th-11th and get ready to sing along with all the familiar tunes, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Tickets | New Theatre Oxford in Oxford | ATG Tickets

This Christmas The North Wall will be transformed into an atmospheric winter wonderland full of magic, mystery, and misadventure. Join Hansel, Grettel, and a host of bewitching characters and feathered friends as they serve up a musical menu of catchy songs, mystical spells, and just a touch of winter magic. Journey deep into the heart of the woodland, where the Witches of Winter rise from the frozen earth to prepare for the awakening of their leader, a mysterious witch known as the Priestess of Winter. Only the birds can save them from the most powerful witch in the land. Join Hansel & Grettel from Dec 1st to Jan 4th. Book tickets at Hansel & Grettel – Creation Theatre

It’s never too early to introduce your little ones to the magic of theatre. Head to Burton Taylor Studio at Oxford Playhouse where the sleigh is loaded, the elves are ready but Father Christmas can’t find his keys or his glasses or his boots… and now he’s making a flask of tea! Hurry Up, Father Christmas! It’s Christmas Eve and it’s time to go! This interactive show is perfect for children aged 3 to 6 years. It’s off to the North Pole for stories, songs, activities, and adventures and to help get the sleigh on its way. Dec 4th-29th. Book at Hurry Up Father Christmas! | Oxford Playhouse

Chipping Norton Theatre’s Christmas panto reaches for the clouds with the most gigantic panto of them all Jack and the Beanstalk. Join Jack on his giant adventures to the Viking kingdom of Smorgasbord with a talking cow and a band of musical horned helmets in search of true love and world peace! This festive treat runs until Jan 12th. Tickets from Pantomime | Jack & the Beanstalk | Chipping Norton Theatre

Join Buttercross Theatre Productions for a delightful adventure with Puss in Boots! This hilarious and heartwarming production promises an unforgettable experience for the entire family. Step into the whimsical world of Much-Rabitting-on-the-Dale, where a clever cat with magical boots sets out to transform the fortunes of his master, the kind-hearted but humble Jack. Packed with lively songs, enchanting characters, and plenty of panto fun, this show has everything you love about traditional pantomime. Dec 19th-24th & 28th-31st. Book at Buttercross Theatre Productions event tickets from TicketSource.

Younger ones will love A Winter’s Tale at The Beacon, Wantage on December 22nd. The snow is falling. Ratty wants everything to be really rat-tastic! But will her friends make it through the snow to the winter woodland revels? Can you help them on their journey? There’ll be excitement, adventure, play-acting, games, music, a splattering of silliness and lots of snow! The show includes a stay and play session, and is created for ages 2+ and their grown-ups. Visit A Winter’s Tail – The Beacon Wantage to book. 

Put your glass slippers on for a night out at Cornerstone Didcot, where you’ll find Cinderella, the girl who dreams of a life more exciting, far away from her wicked stepsisters. Thanks to her faithful friend Buttons, the Fairy Godmother and her wand and the dashing Prince Charming anything is possible. Expect plenty of laughs, professional performers, stunning sets and lavish costumes in this dazzling spectacle from Dec 18th-31st. Book at Cinderella | Cornerstone

Of course pantos aren’t just for Christmas, many local theatre groups are spreading the joy and fun into the new year. Follow the adventures of Dick Whittington with Sinodun Players in the classic tale of young Dick and his loyal cat as they set off in search of fame and fortune in London, where the streets are said to be paved with gold. Take your seat at the Corn Exchange Wallingford from Jan 17th – Feb 1st. Ticket info at » Dick Whittington

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Win Binoclarity book & unique artwork

Karen Neville

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Oxfordshire

Karen Neville

, , , ,

Earlier this year we featured Thomas Newport’s book Binoclarity charting his journey along the River Thames, the characters and stories bringing it to life and now Thomas is offering the chance to win a copy and limited edition artwork

Author Thomas Newport writes:  You may well recall the double page feature called ‘Riveting Riverside Life‘ about Binoclarity book that ran in August’s issue of R&A Magazine.

The feature recounted how this fascinating Thames-Valley focused true-life book covers everything worth knowing about the River Thames, from the many world-changing innovations, eccentrics, large plane crashes, little-known histories, caped crusaders, dimwitted robbers, highwaymen, local business barons, eccentrics, marauding escaped exotic animals, through to a shocking recent rural serial murder epidemic and much much more! Binoclarity is available on Amazon as ebook or paperback.

To enter for a chance of winning a free signed copy or a Limited Edition signed artwork by the author, then please answer this question – which of the following Thames Valley places (clue-there is only one) do not feature extensively in the book? Thames Head, Cricklade, Lechlade, Swindon, Snowdonia, Oxford, Abingdon, Sonning, Marlow, Wargrave, Henley-on-Thames, Cookham, Maidenhead, Bray, Windsor, Wraysbury, Staines-upon-Thames, London.

The top prizes are two signed and numbered ‘Chip Butty Bread’ artworks by the author Thomas Newport. These breads made from genuine solid travertine stone, feature two wooden chips per piece and are the first limited edition works of art associated with this book! The Chippy Butty Breads offered here are from a strictly limited edition of only 10 pieces in total. Each bread is mounted on an attractive solid wooden base. There are two runners up prizes of signed copies of Binoclarity book. All prizes will be sent by post to the winners.

The closing date for the competition is December 31st.

Please email your answer to the author at [email protected]

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Young entrepreneurs wanted for Sobell Accumulator

Karen Neville

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Oxfordshire

Karen Neville

, ,

Sobell House Hospice Charity have launched a new challenge for young people in Oxfordshire to develop and showcase their entrepreneurial skills

The Sobell Accumulator is an enterprise project for secondary schools, colleges, guiding and scouting groups running from Thursday, 16th January until Thursday, 22nd May.

Participating organisations will be given a seed fund of £50 that their young people will re-invest to raise money for Sobell House Hospice, until they reach their chosen fundraising target. The deadline to register is Monday, 2nd December 2024.

Activate Learning were one of the first to sign up. Aino Halla said: “Participating in the Sobell Accumulator is a fantastic opportunity for Activate Learning students to make a meaningful impact while developing their skills. This philanthropic project aims to raise funds for a local hospice that supports individuals with life-limiting illnesses. By participating, students will gain invaluable experience and face an ambitious challenge that complements their studies. Led by our Student Leadership Team, this initiative promises to be immensely rewarding, offering all students the chance to contribute to a noble cause and enhance their personal and professional growth.”

There’s lots of benefits for students and organisations to take part, including developing skills such as managing money, fundraising, leadership, creativity, project management and teamwork. They will also get the opportunity to work with a business mentor, benefit from networking opportunities with other participants and business mentors and selected students from the winning organisations will get to go on air with Get Radio!

There are only 30 places available with Abingdon School, Abingdon & Witney College, Activate Learning, The Cherwell School, Cheney School and The Iffley Academy already signing up. It’s a brilliant opportunity for any group of students who want to dive further into the world of business, fundraising or project management.

To sign up by December  2nd go to The Sobell Accumulator – Sobell House

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Gary Barlow to shine at Blenheim 

Liz Nicholls

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Oxfordshire

Liz Nicholls

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The multi-million-selling British singer songwriter Gary Barlow is the latest act announced for next summer’s Nocturne Live concert series in June 

The Take That star will headline the series on Friday, 20th June, alongside a selection of soon-to-be-announced special guests. 

As a member and lead songwriter of Take That, one of the biggest British boy bands of all time, Gary Barlow has sold over 45 million records, over eight million concert tickets and won eight BRIT awards. Gary has also enjoyed a hugely successful solo career with three number one singles, six top-ten singles and three number one albums. He is one of the most successful British songwriters in history having written a total of 14 number one singles as well as being a six-time recipient of an Ivor Novello Award.

Gary joins the line-up for next summer’s Nocturne Live series alongside Verve frontman Richard Ashcroft, Lightning Seeds and The Zutons, who perform on Thursday June 19th 2025. More acts for the series will be announced in due course.

Nocturne Live transforms Blenheim Palace’s Great Court into a spectacular 10,000-capacity open-air concert venue and since its inception in 2015 has gone on to become one of the UK’s most popular stately home concert experiences. Over the years the series has presented shows from a host of huge international stars including the likes of Lionel Ritchie, Elton John, Kylie Minogue, Nile Rodgers, Lauryn Hill, Noel Gallagher, Gregory Porter, Van Morrison, Tears for Fears, Gladys Knight, Elvis Costello, Simple Minds and Ennio Morricone amongst many others. 

Nocturne Live 2025 runs from Wednesday 18th to Sunday June 22nd. Tickets for Gary Barlow start at £54 and go on sale at 9am on Friday November 29th. Pre-sale is available to those signed up to the Nocturne Live mailing list and begins at 9am on Tuesday, 26th November.

Tickets, along with a limited number of VIP packages – which provide an exclusive opportunity to dine in the State Rooms of Blenheim Palace – are available from  nocturnelive.com. 

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Surviving Christmas when you’ve lost someone

Liz Nicholls

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Oxfordshire

Liz Nicholls

, ,

Grief can feel especially acute at this time of year. Celebrant and founder of Abingdon Compassionate Café Fiona Mac shares her tips to help you be kind to yourself

As Oxfordshire author Clare Mackintosh shares in her best-selling novel I Promise It Won’t Always Hurt Like This, “Grief is universal. Our experiences of death are different, so, too, are the emotions that follow. Your grief is as unique as you are – as unique as your relationship was, with the person you’ve lost. We all grieve in our own way.”

This is no more apparent than during the festive season. Experience has taught me that everyone’s grief is unique, there is no right way or wrong way to feel. It can be a daily challenge, so when the festive season comes along, emotions can run high and we can experience different and difficult feelings, feelings out of sync with everyone else.

In Clare’s book she also writes: “Some people draw comfort from turning anniversary days into something positive. I don’t think this can be forced, and you shouldn’t put pressure on to celebrate someone’s life when you are still struggling with their death, but you might be able to think of small ways to bring colour to these difficult days.”

Here are some thoughts and ideas that may help this upcoming festive season:

It’s OK not to be feeling OK, it is important to prioritise your needs, both emotionally, practically and physically.

I want to be alone: and that’s OK too. Just make sure you try and make time and plan for regular meals and movement (some much-needed self-care). Last Christmas after losing her parent, one friend treated herself to her favourite meal (she had cooked the week before), got up early and walked with the dog for three hours, returned home, got into her PJs, had her meal and got cosy for the rest of the day. Indulge in a bit of self-love.

Being in nature: A walk in the fresh air can do wonders.

Plan a comfortable Christmas: Rather than do what you and others think you should be doing, make sure you plan what you want to do. You can still embrace some traditions if that feels right, step away from them for this year, or create your own.

A time for heightened emotions, so avoid overdoing it: All emotions use up valuable energy, so try not to ‘overdo’ things and get over tired.

Take a social media/TV break: If you’re finding things difficult, take a break from TV, social media, or Christmas films.

If you are with family or friends: Talk about your loved one often, think of a way of talking about them, lighting a candle at mealtimes, making a toast to them, watching old videos, or preparing a photo book to look through photos together after the festive lunch or dinner.

Spend the day volunteering – many charities are calling out for help over the festive season, and it can fill the day and leave you with a sense of wellbeing.

Ditch the turkey – one friend shared their first Christmas without her Dad. They ate his favourite meal instead! La Loop (soup of the day) and spaghetti on your knees (Spaghetti Bolognaise) finished off with roly poly and custard!! They shared stories, laughed, cried and said how much he would have loved it! Followed by of course a toast… with Scotch Whisky.

Personally, we light a candle Christmas Eve and light it every meal we share together over the festive season and think of our loved ones. Inspired by these words from Howard Thurman: “I will light a candle this Christmas, Candles of joy despite the sadness:

Candles of hope, where despair keeps watch, Candles of courage for fears ever present: 

Candles of peace for tempest-tossed days; candles of grace to ease heavy burdens, 

Candles of love to inspire all my living, Candles that will burn all year long.” 

And lastly, reach out for support: You can call Samaritans for free, call 116123, Shout text “SHOUT” to 85258  or “YM” if you are under 19. Child Bereavement UK (up to 25 years) call 0800 02 888 40. 

Join us at the Abingdon Compassionate Café, 10am to 12 noon on 20th December at St Ethelwold’s House and leave a memory label for your loved one on our Christmas Memory Tree.  

For more details please email [email protected] or visit Partners | Fiona Mac Celebrant

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