On a mission with Shakespeare

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To like or not to like Shakespeare? That’s the question Louise Taney is posing with her new theatre company Truth Told who are staging Romeo & Juliet at Cogges Manor Farm

Louise Taney is on a mission to help everyone enjoy Shakespeare and see the relevance of his plays today.

She originally trained at The Oxford School of Drama near Woodstock and has participated in TV, film and theatre shows but her passion is Shakespeare, and this is the driving force behind her new theatre company, Truth Told Theatre which is performing Romeo & Juliet on the Manor Lawn at Cogges Manor Farm in Witney, July 17th-19th.

Having never understood Shakespeare properly at school, where everyone would read round the class not knowing what they were saying, Louise discovered whilst at drama school that the grammar was there as an instruction for the actor on how to say the lines and to give an indication of how the character was feeling (for example, a full stop in the middle of a speech meant a quick change of thought for the character). By using the grammar, the characters come to life and she realised that Shakespeare should always be acted and not read, along with the fact that anyone who could act could act in a Shakespeare play!

This she proved when directing and playing Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream two years ago at Cogges in conjunction with Buttercross Theatre Productions. She quips: “One of the comments I got from a member of the audience after the show was that she’d never laughed at Shakespeare before!”

Launching her company this year, Louise says the thinking behind the Truth Told name is about playing a character truthfully to do justice to their performance and the script. The logo being of someone looking in a mirror, that has been a long-term symbol of truth.

She has been working with Cogges on other projects and loves the unique setting of the Manor lawn, with the farmhouse providing a unique and relevant back-drop for the play.

Louise edits Shakespeare’s plays down to a manageable watching time of two hours including an interval and tries to make her shows visually stunning, fast paced and full of action so modern audiences can relate to them.

She says: “Romeo & Juliet is the original teenage drama that ends in tragedy and the ending is extremely similar to storylines seen in modern soap operas such as EastEnders and Hollyoaks. It is about teenagers not being listened to and being forced to conform to the rules of the adult world along with gang warfare, all of which are still relevant today.”

There’s a bar and refreshments to add to your enjoyment. Bring your own rug or low backed chair. Doors open: 6pm. Curtain up: 6.30pm. Tickets £14 adults, £10 child 3-13; £12.60 adult / £9 child for Season / annual pass holders, £12 students.

Book at Buy Admission Tickets | Cogges (myonlinebooking.co.uk)

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Big Butterfly Count is flying high

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You can help protect the future of local species under threat thanks to Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count, 14th July to 6th August

Butterfly spotting can be one of summer’s most wonderful experience. As the sun appears, and flowers bloom, more and more sightings of our fluttery favourites can be seen.

You may be able to identify some common butterflies quickly. The Brimstone, for example, is a yellow-green butterfly that’s one of the first species to be spotted in spring. The Comma is another favourite for many, and has distinctively scalloped wing edges and its underwings resemble dead leaves as a form of camouflage.

A number of stunning day-flying moths bring the same buzz. The Six-spot Burnet has striking red spots on each forewing. Butterfly Conservation has a handy online identification tool. You may also like to familiarise yourself with different species’ habitats. Red Admirals enjoy almost any habitat from hedgerows to the top of mountains. Others, such as the Speckled Wood inhabit woodland.

Holtspur Bottom Butterfly Reserve, HP9 1DH, covers an area of about 4.5 hectares (11 acres), and is managed thanks to the hard work of local Butterfly Conservation volunteers.

And, Yoesden HP14 4AR, is home to an impressive array of butterflies, considered by many one of the jewels of the Chilterns AONB, with some 28 species recorded, including three scarce blue species: Adonis, chalkhill and small blue butterflies, all of which rely on the flower-rich grassland that makes up half the reserve, owned & managed by Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust. Park at Bledlow Ridge; more info at Yoesden | Berks Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (bbowt.org.uk)

The Big Butterfly Count is the largest citizen science survey of its kind. By recording your sightings, you’ll provide valuable data on the populations and distributions of common species. Last year revealed species such as the Common Blue and Holly Blue had a good summer, with an increase in sightings of 154% and 120% from 2021 respectively.

It takes just 15 minutes and whether you’re in a park, garden or looking out of your window, taking part helps us understand UK butterflies’ plight. Some 80% of butterflies have declined since the 1970s and two thirds of common moth species have declined in the last 40 years.

Visit Big Butterfly Count (butterfly-conservation.org) to take part & Big Butterfly Count (butterfly-conservation.org) to find out more.

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Alice Day: artist’s ox & exhibition

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Abingdon artist Caroline Ritson tells us about her amazing Wonderland-inspired ox, part of the Sobell House OxTrail, and exhibition at St Ethelwold’s this weekend

Amooong the beautiful OxTrail creations is an Alice In Wonderland-inspired masterpiece by Abingdon artist Caroline Ritson.

She tells us: “I was inspired to create my design for my Ox for the OxTrail by the illustrated book of Alice in Wonderland that my mum had had as child and read to me. I also wanted to create images related to Oxford.

“I hope children and adults will spend time looking for all of the creatures and different Alice images and maybe go back to read the books again, or for the first time. I was thrilled that my design was chosen and to help raise money for Sobell House Hospice. It was a great experience and I have made many connections with other artists.”

OxTrail features a herd of 138 large and mini oxen on display to form a fun and family-friendly trail. Each sculpture is unique and has been painted by artists, schools, community groups, or local media (including Round & About). OxTrail is raising money for Sobell House Hospice, who provide expert and compassionate care to people at the end of life, and support to their family and friends.

Alice’s Day, Oxford’s city-wide celebration of all things Alice in Wonderland, is back on Saturday, 6th July. This year’s theme is Fabulous Monsters and Curious Creatures, celebrating anniversary of the birth of wonderland. As well as the giant Alice puppet, a 3ft Jabberwock will roam the city, crafted by the acclaimed theatre-makers and specialists in large-scale puppetry and magic, Rag and Bone. For more info please visit Alice’s Day | About Us | The Story Museum

You are also all welcome to an art exhibition featuring work by Caroline, Marion Owen & Bruce Bignold at St Ethelwold’s garden in east St Helen’s Street, from 5th to 7th July. Tea and cake will be on sale on Saturday 6th, 2.30-4.30pm.

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Artist RAWZ & his inspiring ox

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We asked multidisciplinary artist Rawz to tell us a bit about what inspired his wonderful ox, part of the Sobell House OxTrail…

Among the large oxen grazing in Oxford’s beautiful buildings and streets you will find Dreams of the Spires (also gracing our July cover), outside Saïd Business School, designed by RAWZ.

An established poet and musician from Greater Leys, RAWZ represents a less acknowledged side of Oxford with his intricate design which beautifully reinterprets Oxford’s iconic skyline, symbolising unique stories, influences and people of the city.

He says: “For countless hours, years, centuries, Oxford’s famous spires have stood in silence, witnessing the city’s dreams as the world changes around them. This work re-interprets the iconic skyline’s shapes, weaving an abstract narrative through patterns. The forms interlock like puzzle pieces; a visual metaphor for the lives that inhabit the city, the unique co-existing stories and ideas that constantly influence each other, and the world around them, in an interconnected, interdependent exchange, creating a perpetual state of transformation and evolution.

“It’s been a great experience working with the team at OxTrail and it’s such a good opportunity to share what I do with lots of people. Sobell House’s work is so important, and it means a lot to be able to support it in this way. There are so many talented artists involved in this trail, I hope everyone enjoys exploring the city to find the whole herd. I’m sure a lot of good memories will be made while doing it!”

Ox-plore the trail and collect the sculptures using the official OxTrail 2024 app or through the beautifully-decorated OxTrail map, which is available at all Sobell House shops and some of the mini herd locations. What’s more, there is a range of ox-clusive merch and fun activities for children to get involved in available at the Westgate Hub Shop.

All the proceeds raised through OxTrail will help to fund Sobell House Hospice, who provide expert care to people facing life-limiting illness and support to their loved ones. The hospice relies upon the support of its community to raise over £3million each year.

Join the moo-vement to explore Oxfordshire’s iconic attractions, uncover some hidden gems, and have lots of fun along the way!

To find out more or donate to this worthy cause please visit OxTrail – Sobell House.

To work with Rawz, The Urban Music Foundation or Inner Peace Records email [email protected]

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Amalfi Experience at Six by Nico

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Image by: Andrew Oglivy

Six by Nico in Oxford is a culinary gem that brings a refreshing and innovative dining experience to Oxford’s vibrant food scene. Ellie Cox went along to try out their new six-course tasting menu, embracing La Dolce Vita.

Located in the heart of Oxford, this restaurant offers a unique concept of themed six-course tasting menus that change every six weeks, ensuring that every visit is a new adventure for your taste buds.

From 1st July – 11th August, the tasting menu inspired by the Amalfi Coast promises to take guests on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of its menu namesake through contemporary spins on the traditional flavours of Southern Italy.

The whole dining experience delivered just that. Despite a gloomy evening in Oxfordshire, as soon as you step into Six by Nico you’re taken on a unique journey to explore a taste of Southern Italy. From sipping on Aperol Spritz, to drinking wines that perfectly match each course; it’s an experience to remember.

The restaurant itself offers a sleek, contemporary design of the interior which, combined with warm lighting and comfortable seating, creates a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The open kitchen adds a touch of excitement as diners can watch the chefs meticulously prepare each course.

However, the star of the show at Six by Nico is undoubtedly the food. The flavours are bold and inventive, with a beautiful presentation that is most definitelt Instagram-worthy. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite.

The six-course tasting menu is priced at £50, with an option to add matching wines to each course at £38 (highly recommend adding this).

The menu offers the following:

Course one – Parmesan Polenta
Espuma, Truffle, Mushroom Ragout

Course two – Heirloom Tomato
Green Olive Tapenade, Salted Lemon, Lovage Emulsion & Whipped Ricotta

Course three – Spaghetti Nero
Toasted Sourdough, Chilli, Confit Garlic & Scamorza Foam

Course four – Black Pollock
Bagna Cauda, Zucchini, Braised Fennel, Basil Dressing

Course five – Trio Of Pork
Belly Of Pork, Pancetta Ham Jam, Nduja Cannelloni, Smoked Onion, Pickled Summer Squash

Add-On (highly recommend that you try these!)
Crispy King Prawn, Peperoncino Verde Emulsion & Lemon Gel – £9

Course six – Delizia Al Limone
Lemon Mousseline, Polenta Cake, Caramelised White Chocolate, Yoghurt Sorbet

The ever-changing menus mean that there is always something new to look forward to, making it a great spot for special occasions and regular visits. The combination of exceptional food, outstanding service, and a stylish setting makes Six by Nico a must-visit.

Whether you’re local to Oxford or just visiting, make sure to be first in the queue (spaces get nabbed really quickly thanks to the buzz!) to book a table at Six by Nico for a dining experience that is both unique and unforgettable.

Amalfi Coast six-course tasting menu available from July 1st – 11th August, visit Amalfi Coast – Oxford – Six By Nico

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Make a date for Calendar Girls

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Kevin Thomson invites us to laugh, cry, be elated, despair, feel uplifted (pun intended), and shout, “put ’em back on!” at Abingdon Drama Club’s new production of Calendar Girls

Middle aged Chris Harper and Annie Clarke are best friends. They spend much of their time at their local WI, whose motto is “enlightenment, fun, and friendship”.

Although they like most of the women at the Knapely group and in particular the flaky Chris, they think the way the local President, Marie runs the chapter, a tad dull. They find much of what goes on banal and devoid of fun.

After Annie’s husband John dies from cancer, Chris wants the WI to provide a memorial in his memory: a new sofa for the family room at the hospital. The one she wants is expensive and so she proposes to raise the money with a fundraising calendar featuring tasteful photographs of nude Knapely WI members. Annie likes the idea. But will the rest of the WI members? What about Marie? What about the husbands? Who will be the photographer?

The new of the women’s charitable venture spreads like wildfire, and hordes of press soon descend on Knapely. The calendar is a success, but Chris and Annie’s friendship is put to the test under the strain of their new-found fame.

ADC is never frightened when it comes to performing controversial material… even when it is such great fun!

Director Alex Jenkins’ deft handling of Tim Firth’s hilarious play, ably assisted by, what we have to call, a stand-out cast, is nothing short of brilliant. She explains: “I like to direct plays that have lots of layers and emotion. Calendar Girls takes you on a rollercoaster of emotion, from laughing out loud to ugly crying on the same page. It has a strong female cast and is empowering.”

Based on the true story of 11 WI members who posed nude for a calendar to raise money for the Leukaemia Research Fund, since Calendar Girls opened, it has become the fastest selling play in British theatre history!

A fabulous evening’s entertainment awaits us.

Tickets: £12, £10 concessions (60+, Under 12s, students, ADC members). Group bookings: Groups of 10 and over – All tickets £10 (£10.60 when booked online – just select the concession rate ticket and choose the number you require). Please let us know if you have any problems with your booking.

Tickets available from: The Bookstore, The Abingdon Precinct (15 Bury Street), Abingdon or online at abingdon-drama-club.com

Email: [email protected]

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Crowd-pleasing Henley Royal regatta pic!

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We love this collage by digital artist Henry Reichhold. What do you think?

This year’s Henley Regatta (2nd-7th July) galleries will feature an extraordinary collage by digital artist Henry Reichhold.

As people make their way into Henley Regatta’s Stewards enclosure they will come across a huge collage created from more than 1,500 images, and on closer inspection they will quite likely find that they are probably in it.

Covering six days of the 2023 Regatta and taking over 7,000 images, photo digital artist Henry Reichhold has put together an artwork packed with all stories that make up this iconic UK sporting event. Discover the classic ‘coxswain toss’, the trolley packed with champagne bottles, the festive pleasure boats and the rowers who race cheered on by the crowds lining the riverbank. Catch the prize giving, the packed grandstands and the leisurely strolling around the bandstand and take in the roar of a WW2 Lancaster bomber flying or the majestic Red Kite as it soars around the St Mary’s church tower. The artwork is available at the Regatta’s official shops.

Henry Reichhold was educated at Dartington College of Art and Warwick University. His interest in photography developed at a very young age and he remains as captivated with the process now as he was then. His work has always been at the cutting edge of technology from his early mobile stills and film making, 3D printed/Lidar scanning work to his current work using time-based collage photography and point cloud imaging he relentlessly pursues his fascination with pushing back the boundaries of the photographic world.

Henry worked for over 12 years at Saint Martins College of Art and his recent and ongoing work with St Paul’s Girls School’s explores the role of photography in virtual environments. His work has been seen by a global audience with a series exhibitions at Heathrow Airport, London Bridge Railway Station and other major venues including the Royal Albert Hall.

To find out more about him visit https://www.reichholdarts.com/

For more about his installation at Heathrow on until the 18th July check out the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-QzkT4XVg

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Summer daze

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Holidays are on the horizon so let’s get out and have a good time whatever the weather. There’s fun for all ages to enjoy!

July heralds the start of the school summer hols, weeks of long lazy days lie ahead but there’s plenty to do from trails to follow, games to play, open air entertainment, delve into history, make a splash or go for full on adventure!

It may be the school holidays but how about going to Knight School at Oxford Castle? Learn archery, sword skills and jousting in the Castleyard from July 27th to August 30th. Experience the thrill of being a medieval falconer with birds of prey on August 31st and for more leisurely entertainment, take your seat for open air Shakespeare with Twelfth Night from July 1st to 27th and Hamlet, July 29th to August 10th. To book & for more visit Events – Oxford Castle & Prison (oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk).

Enjoy theatrical family fun this summer at the Oxford Playhouse with Zog and the Flying Doctors based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, July 17th to 21st. Meet The Tiger Who Came to Tea on August 14th to 18th and Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company bring Pinocchio on August 31st. Book these shows and more at Oxford Playhouse.

Foodies alert – South Parks is the place to be for Oxford Foodies Festival 2024 for a celebration of top chefs, tasty food, delicious drinks and live music with Blue, Sister Sledge and Symphonic Ibiza on the menu August 24th to 26th. Tickets at Oxford – Foodies Festival

There’s orienteering family fun during the summer holidays from July 24th to September 1st at Waterperry Gardens. Enjoy exploring the ornamental gardens, using directions and clues to follow the sculpture trail. Details at Summer Garden Trail – Waterperry Gardens

Blenheim Palace Adventure Play is a hidden world of adventure, where mini explorers of all ages can create exciting stories as they clamber, climb, paddle, slide, splash and zip through the exciting zones. Imaginations can run wild as children explore the network of tunnels, bridges, cargo nets and hidden chambers. Book at Blenheim Palace Adventure Play

The annual Millets Maize Maze event will be back from July 20th to September 3rd with games to play within three maize mazes, three woodlands and a fort maze as well as go-karts, family games and lots more to explore! Step into the tepee, July 29th-31st, where children can lovingly create a teddy bear before enjoying a picnic and story with their new cuddly buddy. Folksy Theatre present open air Shakespeare on August 7th with As You Like It and for younger audiences meet Angelina Sprockett whose overcoat has pockets galore, August 7th & 8th in this Quentin Blake classic.

There are brick adventures to enjoy at Didcot Railway Centre as they celebrate the world’s most popular building brick on July 13th and 14th. Enjoy displays and interactive activities including tower building and speed builds. Take the anagram trail and find all the characters to receive a reward. That mischievous marmalade sandwich eating bear Paddington is dropping in on August 26th. Don’t miss the chance to meet him, book at Paddington™ at Didcot

Explore a revelatory new exhibition, Mountains and plains and adventure: William & May Morris and Iceland, at Kelmscot Manor throughout the summer. Visitors to Kelmscot Manor can experience the spirit of Iceland when they encounter the topiary Fafnir yew hedge, originally cut by William Morris. Morris was one of the Victorian era’s great polymaths – writer, designer, conservationist and social thinker, antiquary and scholar of Icelandic.

Grab your friends and enjoy a day at The Game Fair at Blenheim Palace! Enjoy a fun family day out packed with entertainment for everyone. From gundog displays, shooting lines, fishing demonstrations and so much more, this festival of the countryside will not disappoint. If you’re after some new kit, the latest country fashion or your tastebuds are craving some wild food, you’re in luck at The Game Fair. We’ve teamed up with The Game Fair to offer you a pair of tickets to the event on Sunday, 28th July. Enter at roundandabout.co.uk by Sunday, 21st July. Can’t wait to see if you’ve won? Book your tickets now and save – The Game Fair 2024

The Nut Tree Inn in Murcott is a mid-15th century thatched building and while it may look like the quintessential English pub, it is so much more. The gastropub has been the proud and rightful owner of a Michelin Star since 2009 and has three AA rosettes to its name too. Elegant dishes full of flavour and high quality ingredients are offered in their seven course tasting menu, pub classics and in the new Sunday lunch menu. Sample menu online at The Nut Tree Inn Michelin Pub, Murcott, Oxfordshire.

The Blenheim Palace Boathouse is the paddlesports base for LifeFree Adventures where you can explore the Great Lake by rowing boat, kayak or paddleboard. Ideal for all the family and Harry Potter fans alike, glide across the lake with stunning vistas of The Palace, The Grande Bridge and the Harry Potter Tree, on traditional rowing boats or high quality paddle craft. Book at LiveFree Adventures – Blenheim Palace, Watersports for an unforgettable paddling experience.

Abingdon’s Oppidum: trade and crafts in an Iron Age Settlement is the subject of the exhibition at Abingdon Museum from July 6th to September 29th. ‘Oppidum’ a Latin word for ‘town’ was used for those which seem to have been involved in manufacturing goods and in trade, and may also have been centres of power. This exhibition looks at Iron Age life in the Abingdon oppidum, the crafts its people practised, the trade connections and the relationship with the landscape and other settlements in the area.

Discover the Cotswolds from the charm of a holiday cottage from Cotswolds Hideaways. Whether you’re looking for a cosy holiday cottage for two, a dog friendly house, luxury barefoot retreats or a family friendly holiday cottage in the heart of a historic village, you can find just what you’re after to suit all group sizes and budgets. Explore and book at Cotswolds Hideaways: Over 130 Idyllic Holiday Cottages in The Cotswolds

Discover a summer jam-packed with fun at Basildon Park and Greys Court, Henley, from 25th July to 3rd September. Greys Court is also offering the opportunity to have a go at painting, whether you’re a seasoned artist or complete beginner, bring out your artistic side. Various dates in July and September. Booking essential, visit National Trust and search for the property. Basildon Park is exploring the connection between the estate and the Second World War when it was requestioned and used by the 101st Airborne Division of the American Army for D-Day training. This display running until August 31st in the 1950s kitchen, explores these links.

Marvellous, the family-friendly tribute festival, takes place over the weekend of July 19th-21st at Dinton Pastures Country Park, providing a variety of entertainment for all ages with no less than 14 world class tribute acts featured on the main stage! A range of food and drink stalls ensure you won’t go hungry or thirsty and there’s camping and glamping available too so you can really let your hair down and enjoy yourself. Marvellous (marvellousfestivals.com)

There’s summer fun galore at Wellington Country Park from July 29th to September 1st with so much to do you’re really spoilt for choice including Animal Farm Week, August 5th to 9th, Tic Tac Skate School, 12th to 16th, Craft Week, 19th to 23rd, testing your footie skills with Reading FC Community Trust, 17th & 18th, Inflatable Weekend, 24th to 26th and much more. Full details & booking at Summer Fun | Wellington Country Park

Adventure Play is a unique, hand-crafted adventure playground at Windsor Great Park. Hidden within the woodland next to The Savill Garden, you’ll discover a fascinating world of walkways, slides, sculptures and treehouses. Climb along the trees or explore the amazing giant acorns, as you get close to nature, challenging the body and stimulating the senses. Tickets must be booked in advance at Adventure Play – Windsor Great Park

Discover the mysterious world of Tumblestone Hollow at Stonor Park this summer holiday and explore the woodland. The beautiful, magical place to play together with high level walkways, climbing nets, look-out decks and bridges across multiple levels, connected by a gnarled central tower. Inside, a double spiral of steps takes adventures from ground level to a look-out deck. Book at Adventure Play in Oxfordshire at Tumblestone Hollow | Stonor Park

For all round family entertainment and attractions galore, Swallowfield Show on the August bank holiday weekend, 25th & 26th, takes some beating. Main arena acts include the double wheel of death, Paws for Thought dog display team, falconry displays, classic cars and motorbikes while in the activity zone you’ll find go karts, circus skills workshop, sled dogs, crazy golf and a fun fair. There are dozens of classes to enter in both the dog and horse shows and don’t forget the horticulture, craft and food stalls. Details at The Swallowfield Show

Grab your picnic gear and head to the glorious grounds of South Hill Park this summer for relaxed, outdoor theatre fun. There is something for all ages this summer. Light-hearted operetta The Gondoliers is on Friday, 26th July, 7pm. There’s a charming new adaptation of much-loved The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck by Beatrix Potter on Friday, 2nd August, 2.30pm and family favourite The Railway Children stages on Friday, 16th August at 4.30pm. Book at South Hill Park.

‘A truly royal way to travel! For an exceptional day out, head into Windsor town centre and jump on the French Brothers Riverboat. Take in the picturesque River Thames, before enjoying an evening at Royal Windsor Racecourse. Book via Royal Windsor Racecourse (windsor-racecourse.co.uk) for admission, return riverboat, and two drinks, all from £49.50.

Discover Wokingham Cricket Club in Sindlesham this summer, perfect for families. A thriving junior and senior section means there is coaching and matches for all ages, great cricket to watch throughout the week with a full bar and snacks. We are also available for hire for your special event. Visit Wokingham CC (play-cricket.com)

GolfPlex in Binfield is a great fun for the whole family. Tackle the three zones of Bear Mountain Adventure Golf – Polar, Jungle and Desert. Try Toptracer Range – smart enough for the serious golfer, fun enough for the whole family. Or unleash the Beckham in you on the FootGolf course. You don’t need any prior golf experience and we’ll even lend you all the equipment you need. Plus, new-in – Sports Simulator. Over 60 sports, 1,500 game challenges and 3,500 sporting venues. It’s immersive, fully interactive and very addictive! More & booking at The Family Golf Entertainment Centre in Bracknell – GolfPlex

Enjoy a night at the cinema in the open air in the historic surroundings of Reading Abbey Ruins, with the high fliers in Top Gun – Maverick on 31st August and boy wizard and chums in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on 1st September. Visit What’s On Reading (whatsonreading.com) to book.

Take your picnic rug and fold up chairs to the Coppa Club at The Great House, Sonning for Wonka on July 11th and to The Swan at Streatley on July 5th for Pretty Woman. Booking at Coppa Club.

Newbury Summerfest is the BIG family day out on July 20th at Newbury Showground bringing together the best attractions, arena demonstrations, airshows, musical tributes and entertainment for an unforgettable family day out. Multiple zones and arenas offer families an array of activities to enjoy throughout the day and into the evening. Book at Big Family Day Out | Newbury Summerfest | Hermitage

Enjoy a leisurely trip along the Kennet & Avon canal this summer. The Newbury branch’s trip boat Jubilee runs trips from The Wharf throughout the boating season. Until September 7th they will be running a summer season of weekly evening trips (on either Thursday or Friday) which will incorporate “bubbly cruises”, gin tasting cruises (with award-winning Gee Gee Gins) and beer tasting cruises (with the Inn at Home). The Hungerford branch covers a particularly beautiful stretch of the canal, between Kintbury and Great Bedwyn where The Rose of Hungerford, a traditional widebeam boat, based at Hungerford Wharf, offers regular public trips and private charters along the canal. To book a trip visit Book A Trip – Kennet & Avon Canal Trust (katrust.org.uk)

Shaw House in Newbury has a variety of summer fun to treat yourself to with a summer fair on July 21st, a family activity day on 31st before open air theatre comes to the grounds in August. Join Immersion Theatre for A Midsummer Night’s Dream on 4th and Peter Pan on 12th. Full details and to book at West Berkshire Heritage, West Berkshire Museum & Shaw House

Animal Olympics is a Summer Trail at the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham. Join them at the centre to find out more about super speedy animals and high flying birds by taking part in the self-led trail. Complete the course, figure out the clues and make your own Animal Olympics inspired medal or trophy. Details at Nature Discovery Centre | Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (bbowt.org.uk)

Step back in time at Retrofestival to the evocative music of yesteryear at Newbury Showground 9th-11th August. Capture the lost glamour of the 30s, with its art deco designs and elegant fashion, or the nostalgia of the 40s, with its wartime spirit and timeless melodies, and rock n roll to 50s tunes and dance the night away, then get down to some soulful rhythm and blues that will move your body and lift your spirit. Tickets at Home – Retrofestival

Journey through the ages to when steam ruled all and explore a hidden gem in Wiltshire’s history at Crofton Beam Engine’s steam weekends, July 27th & 28th and August 25th & 26th. Learn about the history of the station and its restoration. Speak with volunteers in and around the Engine House. Discover the engineering challenges and the people who overcame them to build the canal and make sure it had a plentiful supply of water.

From trails and guided tours to craft activities, Avebury has lots of ways for you to enjoy precious time together as a family. Take a stone circle tour on Wednesdays and Sundays, take your seat for fairytale theatre in Dovecote with playful performances of The Ugly Duckling, The Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and the Three Bears on August 2nd, 9th & 16th. If you’re looking to let off some steam then try the obstacle course using the logs, planks and balance beams in the Old Farmyard and challenge others to have a go.

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Join the moo-vement on the OxTrail

Round & About

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Oxfordshire

OxTrail is an exciting sculpture trail taking place across Oxfordshire this summer and as Beth Marsh, Director of Fundraising at Sobell House Hospice Charity tells us you’ll see some fabulous artwork, explore the county and help support an incredible cause

Summer has arrived, and with it 138 life-sized and mini ox sculptures are moo-ving themselves into position across Oxfordshire.

In case you haven’t already ‘herd’, this moo-vellous exhibition is called OxTrail and is taking place between 6th July and 29th August all to raise much-needed funds for Sobell House Hospice Charity. Each sculpture has been designed and decorated by artists, local schools, community groups, and local media – making the herd truly unique – and many have been sponsored by local companies and organisations.

Amongst the large oxen grazing in Oxford’s beautiful buildings and streets you will find ‘Dreams of the Spires’, situated outside Saïd Business School, designed by RAWZ. An established poet and musician from Greater Leys, RAWZ represents a less acknowledged side of Oxford with his intricate design reinterpreting Oxford’s iconic skyline, symbolising unique stories, influences and people of the city.

Within the Westgate, you’ll find four beautiful and unique oxen, including ‘Prehistoric Ox’ designed by Alison Berman. In Alison’s own words: “Sorting through photos of cave paintings I could clearly imagine what a shock there would be if an ox from the Ice Age suddenly appeared in a market in Oxford.” This ox has been decorated with an assortment of mammals including running bulls, a bear, an ibex and a mammoth.

In the University Parks further ox-citement awaits you, with oxen such as Antler Wildling’s Oxslips and Cowslips, a beautiful representation of these now rare species of Oxfordshire flora. And further afield at the Churchill Hospital, home of Sobell House Hospice, you’ll come across another nature inspired design, Oxford Blue by Catherine Rye. Catherine has used plants from her own garden to make stencils with a cyanotypic effect.

More large oxen can be found across the city at churches including the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Michael at the North Gate, St Margaret’s and St Giles’; at college and university locations including Green Templeton College, Blavatnik School of Government and Oxford Brookes University Headington Campus, and at other iconic locations such as Oxford Castle, Broad Street, Oxford City Football Club, and at Oxford University Hospital sites.

Across the county, from Carterton to Henley via Witney, Wantage, Abingdon, Didcot and Wallingford, and from Banbury to Thame via Bicester, Kidlington and Wheatley, you will find over 100 mini oxen at libraries, hotels, shops and farm centres. Most of these have been painted by schools and youth groups in the local towns and villages. Amongst these are ‘Ed’, located at the Sobell House Bicester Warehouse and painted by St Edburg’s Primary School, ‘Oxytocin’ by Ladygrove Park Primary School at the Cornerstone in Didcot, ‘Ferdinand’ by Summer Fields School at the Leonardo Royal Hotel, ‘Sunny’ by Sunrise Nursery at Millets Farm, ‘Space Ox’ by the Oxford Spires Academy at Templars Square, and ‘Joy’ by West Hendred Home Ed Group at the Wantage Library. There’s also other mini bovines on display on the trail including two stunning designs from artist and innovator Annie Sloan, creations from our own artistic community at the hospice and an eye-catching design courtesy of MINI.

You can ox-plore the trail and collect the sculptures using the official OxTrail 2024 app or through the beautifully-decorated OxTrail map, which is available at all Sobell House shops and some of the mini herd locations. What’s more, there is a range of ox-clusive merch and fun activities for children to get involved in available at the Westgate Hub Shop.

Once the trail is over, there will be one last chance to bid goodbye to the moo-gnificent herd at the Farewell Weekend, which takes place on 7th-8th September at the Westgate. Gather your friends and family together to help give the oxen the send-off they deserve! The life-sized sculptures (and some of the mini oxen) will then be sold to their forever homes at a hoof-biting Grand Auction on 13th September at Saïd Business School in Oxford and online.

All the proceeds raised through OxTrail will help to fund Sobell House Hospice, who provide expert care to people facing life-limiting illness and support to their loved ones. The hospice relies on the support of its community to raise over £3million each year.

Join the moo-vement to explore Oxfordshire’s iconic attractions, uncover some hidden gems, and have lots of fun along the way.

Visit Home – OxTrail 2024 and follow OxTrail 2024 (@oxtrail2024)

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Drive against cancer for Sobell House

Round & About

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Oxfordshire

Jay, Paul and Reg are travelling from Oxford to Barcelona in a ‘spacious diesel with a a large boot for beers’ all to raise funds for Sobell House Hospice

Driving a £400 Ford Mondeo more than 1,400 miles may sound like madness but for friends Jay, Paul and Reg there’s method to their madness.

The trio are fulfilling a bucket list dream to compete in a TwoBall Rally and have decided to take on the challenge from July 18th to 22nd to raise funds for Sobell House Hospice.

The Beach Rally will take them from Saint Quentin in France through the French Alps to Annecy, on to the Italian coast, the glitz of Monaco, onwards to the French Riviera to Nice, Cannes and Saint Tropez topping up the tan before heading off towards Spain and the final destination of Barcelona.

The Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCI was purchased for £400 without MOT and has spent the last few weeks being repaired, welded and having a new MOT – with a lot of thanks to team mechanic Reg from Oxford.

Jay, who, along with fellow rallier Paul lives in Abingdon, says: “We will be taking a small tool box as we do expect some issues but myself and Reg both have mechanical knowledge so if we do break down we hope it’s somewhere nice along the way, like the French Alps or the Italian coast.”

Their trusty steed has now been lovingly given a new lease of life and decked out to look like a US police car for their epic adventure and with the three friends ready to go in their costumes, it’s almost time to saddle up and set off. All they need now is your help in their fundraising.

“This charity sits close to my heart as I’ve personally had friends spend their remaining few months at Sobell House and after visiting a good friend’s little brother there it blew me away emotionally,” said Jay. “I saw first hand how amazing the staff took care of the kids and adults, how they worked so hard to make the place look amazing and how kind they were even under the extreme pressures of caring for such very ill people.

“I can’t imagine how it must feel working closely with end of life patients so I feel very passionate about trying to achieve as much money as possible to support them.”

Businesses are invited to get involved and sponsor the car with their logo on a sticker.

The Just Giving page will be updated with pictures and stories of their exploits along their 1,443-mile journey and look out for Jay’s footage of the expedition on TikTok – JayDogUK. You can follow and donate at tinyurl.com/ys5djkkp

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