Meet Elizabeth Bennet

Karen Neville

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Karen Neville

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From page to face-to-face conversation, meet Jane Austen’s most loved character through the magic of technology at the author’s house at Chawton

Fans of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice can enjoy a conversation with their literary hero when speaking with the world-first Elizabeth Bennet avatar – Lizzy. 

Created by StarPal in collaboration with University for the Creative Arts (UCA), the avatar has been developed to mirror the human qualities of Austen’s character as detailed in the novel, such as empathy and humour. Her conversations, which fans will have with her face-to-avatar at the Learning Centre at Jane’s house in Chawton, will evolve, giving each person who talks to Lizzy a unique experience.  

How does Lizzy feel about being a world-first? She said: “It is quite an interesting notion indeed – I must say being Elizabeth Bennet in a world far removed from my own time is an unexpected but intriguing experience. It allows me to share the intricacies of our society and my life with new audiences.” 

Following consultation and guidance from Jane Austen’s House, Lizzy’s knowledge bank has been curated from a selection of novels, manuscripts and period-accurate information. 

Lizzy is set within a Regency-style background. Her dress and hair have been designed and created by students from the Games Arts and Digital Fashion courses at UCA, drawing on fashion templates from the period. 

Sophy Smith, Director of Games and Creative Technology at UCA and the originator of the project, said: “It is so exciting to finally be able to lift Elizabeth Bennet off the page and to be able to have real-time conversations with her. To be able to cross time in this way is joyful – you get a real sense of speaking directly to someone from the 18th century. Imagine – you can now have Elizabeth Bennet as your friend.  

“This technology has the potential to transform experiences within both the museum and heritage, as well as the education sector. Visitors to Jane Austen’s House, will have the opportunity to not only experience the renowned author’s home but also engage directly with one of her most famous characters. It could transform learning – instead of only having text-based revision guides, students can now learn about literature by speaking directly to the characters.” 

Director of Jane Austen’s House, Lizzie Dunford, said: “It has been fascinating to watch this project develop, and to witness the innovative staff and students at UCA developing these new technologies, and new ways of accessing literary and cultural heritage.” 

Anya Haber, an MA Digital Fashion student who created the dress in 3D, added: “It showed how useful technology can be in a historical setting, letting fans engage with fictional characters…and that’s just the beginning.” 

Fans will have the chance to interact with Lizzy at the Learning Centre at Jane Austen’s House until mid-December, included with House entry. 

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Merry Marlow fair on 7th December 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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The Merry Marlow Christmas Fair on 7th December will offer lots of festive fun, with local artisans selling pottery, cards, Crochet, photos, memory bears, glass art, pebble art and much more! 

Looking for unique Christmas presents? A group of creative Marlow crafters have joined forces to create their second craft fair – this one with a Christmas theme – at All Saints Church Hall in The Causeway, SL7 2AA, from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, 7th December.  

These include Debs Rayner who has been painting custom artworks for more than 20 years, in a variety of themes, subjects, and landscapes using a glass, ceramic and canvas. You can find out more about her seasonal work at debsglassart.com. John Baughn will showcase his pebble art and you can also enjoy crochet crafted by Sam Sutton. 

They’ll be selling quality crafts including fused glass, greeting cards, pottery, preserved and dried flowers, crocheted items, pebble art, environmentally friendly bags, pens, memory bears landscape prints and most importantly, Christmas goodies, as well as lots more.  

You’ll also find a charity stand selling items which are specifically raising money for charity. Hot drinks and cakes are on offer too – also being sold in aid of charity.  

Spread the word, head along to see what’s on offer and enjoy a cup of tea and slice of cake. 

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Find treasures at The Juniper Barn

Karen Neville

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Karen Neville

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Find fabulous extraordinary antique French, Italian and Swedish furniture, décor & lighting at The Juniper Barn

Friends for over 20 years, Narelle Lester Paine from Henley and Jenny Leslau from Wallingford have always loved to collect beautiful and unusual items from antique markets and their travels all over the world.   

In 2021 after reflecting on their careers, they decided to pool their experience and join forces at The Juniper Barn.  

As their lovely pieces flew off the shelves and needing storage for the expanding collection, a kind friend offered them the use of a stable at her yard near Watlington. As the business grew so did the need for space to display and photograph their beautiful finds and they decided to look for more permanent premises.   

The Juniper Barn has found a home and established a showroom in Cane End on a beautiful country estate. 

Narelle and Jenny’s mission is to provide an exceptional experience for their clients. The Juniper Barn specialises in curating collections for the home and garden and has built a strong network of specialist contacts within industrial, antique and artisan communities, allowing access to rare and unusual pieces. 

Dedicated to sustainability, they strongly encourage the continuing movement away from excessive consumption of easily accessible factory produced furniture and unnecessary waste, towards sourcing high quality, sustainable pieces with timeless elegance, warmth, character and individuality.  

The Juniper Barn supplies private clients and interior designers with beautiful decorative pieces and antique furniture for the home and garden from the UK, France, Italy and Sweden, immaculately restored industrial mid-century British lighting, all alongside some superb one-off artisan pieces of antique English furniture.  

Their collection includes vibrant glazed 19th century pottery from the South of France, beautiful French cast iron urns and other decorative treasures sourced from French chateaux, alongside candlesticks and sconces from Italy, faded white Swedish furniture and skilfully made pieces of Victorian and Georgian furniture that have been restored and beautifully decorated by a talented artist. Each piece is unique, a stunning blend of traditional and modern craftsmanship combined to create a fully functional and striking work of art. 

They love the challenge of sourcing in the UK and throughout Europe. One of their favourite finds was an exquisite large antique French stone statue of the Madonna for a client who was looking for a very special piece for her garden. 

The Juniper Barn delivers throughout the UK and ships worldwide, working with excellent, reasonably priced and trusted couriers. 

Narelle and Jenny can be found at the showroom most days. They are also planning open days in the near future. Please contact them to register your interest. Visit thejuniperbarn.co.uk and follow on Instagram @thejuniperbarn 

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Amersham A Capella are UK champions! 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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Well done to Amersham A Cappella whose musical members won the gold medal at the recent national competition for the Ladies Association of British Barbershop Singers (LABBS) in Bournemouth

Musical director Helen Lappert says: “We are thrilled, not only to have scooped the gold medal, but to have scored the highest ever marks in the history of the competition!” 

The Amersham women’s chorus, made up of more than 70 members, wowed the judges at the annual National Convention beating 26 other choruses from all around the country. 

They sang two bespoke arrangements of iconic Queen songs. An upbeat quirky rendition of Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy and an extremely moving and haunting version of Who Wants to Live Forever. 

Returning from Bournemouth the chorus has hit the ground running rehearsing Christmas repertoire, a new song and preparing for corporate workshops and events during the Christmas period. 

The chorus are going places and are preparing to head to Denver in USA in July  to represent the UK and compete in the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) International Convention against groups from all around the world.   

They are busy fundraising to help get them there and looking for sponsorship from local businesses. Could you help? 

You can see them performing locally at Christmas on Sunday 15th December at the Chiltern Lifestyle Centre in Amersham. Keep an eye on their website for tickets and more information. 

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Great Missenden Choral Society’s festive concert 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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On Saturday, 7th December at 7.30pm, Great Missenden Choral Society will bring plenty of cheer to the village’s St Peter & St Paul Church 

Great Missenden is a beautiful village with a mighty voice. Thanks to the local choral society, you’re invited to fully immerse yourself in the season of Advent, starting off with Alan Bullard’s beautiful cantata O come, Emmanuel.  

Structured rather like a carol service, the evening alternates choir carols with others that the audience can join in with, and features modern translations of the mystical, medieval O Antiphons. The concert concludes with Franz Schubert’s extraordinary masterpiece, his Mass in E flat. Written at the height of Schubert’s expressive powers, it’s full of soaring melodies, deeply moving harmony and glorious climaxes.  

Great Missenden Choral Society (GMCS) will be joined by fabulous young soloists from the Royal College of Music and the Royal Academy of Music, and accompanied by St John’s Chamber Orchestra directed by Alex Flood. 

GMCS are an amateur choir of about 60 singers who give two concerts a year, in the local parish church of St Peter & St Paul. Their repertoire ranges widely, from the great choral masterpieces to lesser-known and new works.  

The singers pride themselves on high standards of performance and excellent professional soloists and orchestral players. “We are a friendly and welcoming society,” says GMCS secretary Isabelle Reynolds. “The choir are an important part of the musical life of Great Missenden and the surrounding area. 

“Singing with GMCS is enjoyable and rewarding. Performing with an orchestra and professional soloists in the lovely church to a large and appreciative audience is a pleasure not to be forgotten. We welcome new singers in all voices with bursaries available for those aged 16-25. If you might like to join us, please email us at [email protected] or refer to our contacts page.” 

The choir rehearse on Mondays from 7.45pm in the Oldham Hall in Great Missenden, every month except May to August. 

Tickets are £17.50pp, (students & children £10pp) from Wye County, 36B High Street, Great Missenden and at GMCS – Great Missenden Choral Society. For more info about the choir and opportunities to join as a singer or a Friend, please visit GMCS.

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Yattendon Winter Market 23rd&24th November 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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Yattendon Winter Market, a celebration of slow craftsmanship, is back on 23rd & 24th November at the village hall, RG18 0UE 

Yattendon is the perfect village for a festive market, being home to the beloved local Christmas tree farm!  

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or a special treat for yourself, The Modern Makers Collective invite you to find a diverse and vibrant selection of handmade treasures to choose from, including jewellery, ceramics, textiles, glass, printmaking, basket weaving, and much more. 

Modern Makers Collective are a group of skilled makers, designers, artists and craftspeople committed to promoting high quality craftsmanship, sustainability and community engagement through the Winter Market and programme of workshops in the local area.  

This year the team are excited to showcase the incredible talents of 24 artists, designers and craftspeople. Among them will be several new faces, bringing a wave of fresh creativity alongside more seasoned Collective members.  

The highlight aims to foster a deeper connection and understanding between makers and visitors, highlighting the time, effort, and skill that go into handmade artworks. The makers pour everything into creating exceptional pieces with care, attention to detail, a respect for materials, and traditional techniques, often fused with modern design. Visitors can meet the makers, learn about their processes and buy one-of-a-kind items that embody the essence of slow craft. 

The picturesque estate village of Yattendon, renowned for being largely owned by Lord and Lady Iliffe, is the perfect setting for the Winter Market, with its award-winning pubs and beautiful scenery, providing visitors with a lovely opportunity to enjoy a day of mindful shopping and delicious food. 

“We’re thrilled to host an event that not only showcases the incredible talent of our Collective, but also encourages mindful shopping,” says co-founder Aimée Alice Payton. “The popularity of our Winter Market reflects a growing appreciation for unique, quality products that tell a story, and reflect a commitment to thoughtful, sustainable purchases over mass-produced items.” 

Visit Home | modern makers uk

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Stars’ traditions for Christmas Jumper Day!

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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Dom Joly, Alison Hammond, Olly Murs & more celebrities are urging us all to swap, buy second-hand or rewear a pre-loved jumper as they launch Save the Children’s annual festive fundraiser on 12th December.

“I’m an ex-goth so I can be quite grumpy around Christmas time,” says Dom Joly, “but some festive traditions have creeped in over the years. It doesn’t feel like Christmas unless I have a tube of my favourite biscuits, chocolate Bath Olivers, which are so rare these days that my wife has to drive halfway across the country to find them. I also take my two black Labradors on a walk around the park on Christmas Day – they both have special Christmas collars that flash and look very festive.

“I’ve been to see the incredible work that Save the Children is doing to support children and families on the ground in Ukraine. In areas of conflict all around the world, the charity is working tirelessly to ensure children still have access to food, education, and a modicum of structure in a world that has often been ripped apart. Christmas Jumper Day is such a simple way of supporting this vital work – I’d urge everyone, even Christmas grumps like me, to get involved if you can.”

Olly Murs said: “Christmas in the Murs household is always a laugh! Every year, I’m in charge of the games, including our tradition of pass the parcel which everybody loves. This year will be Madison’s first Christmas, so I’m really excited for that – it’ll be a special one for the whole family.

“Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is such a fun way to raise money for a brilliant cause. As a new dad, I know how important it is for my daughter to have a safe and happy upbringing, but not every child in the world experiences this. All you need to do is wear a silly second-hand jumper, donate what you can and you’ll be helping to make sure children across the globe get the future they deserve.”


Alison Hammond said: “Normally at Christmas time I’m doing panto, so I only get one day off which is Christmas Day. Last year I went to my sister’s house, where I sat on the sofa and did absolutely nothing while she cooked the most spectacular roast dinner. I know that sounds terrible, but after working the whole festive season, putting my feet up for the day felt very deserved!

“I love how much fun Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is and how easy it is for everyone to get involved! If you’re busy over the Christmas period like me, you can simply head to your local charity shop and pick up a pre-loved knit. Every penny raised helps children here in the UK and all around the world to stay safe, healthy and learning. So what are you waiting for babes?! Sign up now!”

Laura Whitmore said: “Most of us have a festive jumper somewhere in our wardrobe, and if not, why not borrow one from a friend? I’m always letting friends borrow my clothes, and they let me borrow theirs in return.

“I have a lot of things in my wardrobe that are there for life. Although it’s nice to follow trends, I think it’s really important to have those staple pieces that will last a lifetime – mine is definitely my go-to leather jacket. I also get quite nostalgic with clothes: I remember what I wore on my first date with my husband or what I wore when I auditioned for MTV – and my Christmas jumper always reminds me of all the festive fun I’ve had with friends and family over the years! There’s a story in every piece of clothing I own.”

Joe Swash said: “Christmas Day at my house is always chaos but most importantly, it’s full of love, laughter and excitement.

“I’m supporting Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day because, having kids myself, I know how important it is for children to feel safe, protected and supported. Anything we can do to help raise money so children all over the world can experience these basic rights is something I’m all for. You don’t even need a new jumper to get involved – grab any old thing from your cupboard and spruce it up with some tinsel or baubles. Jobs’ a good ‘un!!”

Nadia Sawalha said: “Christmas is an opportunity for us to reflect, think about all we have to be grateful for and how we can give back.

“This year has been tough for many people across the world, so it feels more important than ever to do what we can to spread joy and hope.

“One thing we can all do to help children stay safe, healthy and learning, is get involved in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day. Wearing a jumper and donating a small amount really has the power to transform children’s lives for good.

“So whether you’re at work, in the classroom, on the sofa or down the pub, why don’t you get involved on the 1th December – or whenever suits you best.”

Sophie Morgan said: “Christmas Day has got to be about being comfortable. Wearing something really cosy and warm is key so I’m usually in an extra big jumper and a pair of leggings.

“I’m terrible at throwing things away so I have loads of jumper at home to pick from for Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on 7th December. All you need to do to take part is theow on your favourite jumper and donate £2 to Save the Children.”

For more information and details on how to sign up, visit Christmas Jumper Day 2024 | Save the Children UK

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Panto star Biggins turns Woking on! 

Liz Nicholls

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Christopher Biggins, star of New Victoria Theatre’s pantomime Sleeping Beauty, will switch on Woking’s Christmas lights in Jubilee Square on Thursday, 21st November

Woking town centre is set to sparkle as the festive season officially “Biggins” with the much-loved Christmas tree lights switch-on on 21st November.  

Special guest Christopher Biggins, star of New Victoria Theatre’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, has the honour of lighting up the borough’s biggest Christmas tree.  Promising an evening filled with cheer and holiday magic, the festivities begin at 4.45pm, with the grand switch-on at 6pm.  

Visitors can look forward to carol singing, live music, dance performances, and a traditional Christmas market offering seasonal gifts and festive refreshments. 

This year’s Christmas tree has been generously donated by Woking Asian Business Forum, a gesture that unites communities and brings joy to all. 

Cllr Ann-Marie Barker, Leader of Woking Borough Council, said: “Our Christmas lights switch-on brings together people of all ages to celebrate the joy of the season. I would like to thank Woking Asian Business Forum for their generous contribution. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Jubilee Square to mark the start of this festive time.” 

Shahid Azeem, Chair of Woking Asian Business Forum, added: “Christmas is about community, family, celebration and togetherness. We’re proud to support the local community by donating this year’s Christmas tree. It’s a pleasure to contribute to a celebration that brings our communities together and spreads festive cheer.” 

Sam Miller, Communications Manager at the New Victoria Theatre, added: “We are absolutely thrilled that the one-and-only Christopher Biggins, the star of our dazzling pantomime Sleeping Beauty, will have the honour of lighting up Woking’s Christmas tree this year. It’s the perfect way to kick off the festive season, bringing the magic of Christmas and panto together in one unforgettable moment!” 

Visitors can enjoy the Christmas market, which will remain in town throughout the festive period, exploring a wide range of seasonal gifts, warming treats, and delicious refreshments.  

Sleeping Beauty, starring Christopher Biggins, Faye Tozer, Richard Cadell, and Sooty, plays at New Victoria Theatre Woking, from Fri 6 Dec 2024 to Sun 5 Jan 2025. 

Tickets are available here: Sleeping Beauty Tickets | New Victoria Theatre, Woking in Woking | ATG Tickets 

Watch this space for our pantomimes special in December! 

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Beloved Bucks bar owner’s emotional farewell

Liz Nicholls

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Praise, and funds, are flooding in for 38-year-old entrepreneur and mum of two Samantha Fraser, as The Library Bar in Aylesbury closes its doors so that she can spend precious time with her family

Sam opened The Library Bar, the first-of-its-kind LGBTQIA+ venue in Bucks in May last year.

The bar quickly became a cherished spaces for locals to gather, enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and tapas and celebrate individuality and inclusivity.

However, due to a prolonged and challenging battle with terminal cancer, Sam has made the heart-breaking decision to close the doors of her beloved business.

“It’s been a hell of a ride,” says Sam, “but we called last orders for good on Friday, 1st November: our Halloween party. This place has been more than just a bar. It’s been our home, our hideout, our little slice of heaven. We’ve laughed, cried, and probably puked here.

“To everyone who’s been part of this mad journey – you’re all amazing. You’ve made this place what it is.

“Anyone who’s spoken to me knows the love I have for this place, how much I wanted it, how much I’d dreamt of it, and how much I wanted to be the place everyone felt comfort, felt security, and where they wanted to go time and time again. I think I achieved that, for the time it was there anyway.”

Sam’s journey to open the bar is one of hard work and determination. After securing a business loan, she was able to bring her childhood dream to life, and her establishment quickly became a vibrant hub for all, warmly embraced by the local LGBTQIA+ community. The bar hosted weekly events, including open mic nights, quizzes, and live music performances, along with a popular monthly drag show presented by the House of Suxwell, an Aylesbury-based drag family. Sam also partnered closely with local Pride organisation to launch Aylesbury’s very first Pride event earlier this year, even hosting the official after-party at The Library Bar.

Tragically, just three weeks after the bar’s opening, Sam was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, a rare cancer affecting bones and soft tissue. The initial tumour, located near her collarbone, was successfully removed through surgery, which left her arm 90% paralysed. Despite enduring radiotherapy and a succession of treatments, the cancer returned aggressively, spreading to her lungs, ultimately rendering her illness terminal. Recent attempts at chemotherapy and other treatments have been unsuccessful, prompting Sam to focus on spending precious time with her husband, Jamie, and their two children, George (9) and Lorelai (7).

Former Mayor of Aylesbury, Cllr Steven Lambert said: “I went to The Library Bar as one of my first engagement as Mayor and this truly was a real community space. Sam’s dream of creating a welcoming place where you could absolutely be authentically yourself was really important to her, and events I’ve seen over the last year, like Random Acts of Kindness Day have been integral in maintaining community spirit. One of the best things I ever did as Mayor was learning how to Morris Dance in her bar!

“Her vision was similar to that of a mayor in that it was about bringing community together and shining a light that people are attracted to and feel safe and welcomed towards. You would never walk into her bar as a stranger, even if you didn’t know anybody – somebody would stop and say hello and you would make friends very easily. For the LGBTQIA+ community that can be really hard to do at times and to be authentically you – and yet Sam succeeded, and her beautiful vision was brought to life. 

“The fact that the bar is now going to close is really very sad. But Sam’s legacy here will go on for many years from the friendships that were built, the encouragement and the growth that many young people have been gifted with – all because of Sam.” 

Since April, Sam has been unable to work at the bar, and operational costs have become unsustainable in her absence. Though she has actively sought a buyer to continue her vision, she has yet to secure a suitable candidate.  

In recognition of her resilience and dedication, Sam’s friends and family have launched a GoFundMe page to help support the family’s medical and travel expenses as she receives ongoing treatment in Liverpool. The fundraiser will provide essential support for her loved ones as they navigate this difficult period without income from the bar. 

If you wish to contribute to the family please visit their GoFundMe page.  

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2025: The Year of Solo Trips?

Round & About

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Round & About

Robbie James looks at ‘going it alone’, don’t be afraid to do what you want just because you have no one to do it with, you may just enjoy it more…

I have some ludicrously brilliant people around me, and I love them an amount that I can’t be bothered to try and formulate into words here – but that doesn’t mean I don’t completely love the time I spend with… well, none of them.

Going to a restaurant, sport, or a gig on your own is daunting, especially when you’ve never done it before. People will be wondering why I’m the only person on my own, won’t they? Everyone will feel sorry for me. They’re gonna think I’m some sort of creep. Will they think I’ve been stood up? No. They won’t. They probably won’t notice, and if they do, they probably won’t care for more than seven seconds.

Pushing yourself to go and do that thing you want to do but have no one to go with is one challenge, the second is actually following through once the experience is in motion. Once you’ve looked at the menu or bought your tickets or have made your way into the waiting area, can you resist a scroll of Instagram?

Can you avoid resorting to taking a few minutes to leave a Google review for the Cineworld you went to last month, or replying to O2 about the fact your latest bill is available (even though in no uncertain terms it began with ‘DON’T REPLY’)? That phone is your ultimate get-out-of-jail-free card that can save you from not having to look up. It’s so hard! Break through the barrier once, and you’ll be grand the next time around.

I’m away filming and actually writing this in my notes while solely taking up a table of six (I was told to sit there, before the space efficiency police start) in Gloucester Quays’ Côte, waiting for my Mushroom Cassoulet. Wait, I’m on my phone. What a hypocritical meringue. I’ll continue later.

Ok I’m back, banging dinner. I’m a sucker for a Chestnut Mushroom. So as I was saying…

Cricket has always felt like a nice getaway to enjoying solo activity. A County Championship match can take four whole days. You run out of people who have their entire Wednesday to burn, and you can’t spend eight hours on your phone (I’ve tried), so I’ve watched plenty of cricket while thinking about… absolutely nothing.

Aside from cricket, my first proper solo trip was when I took myself to Paris a couple of years ago. I was sad and decided I wanted to spend some time with myself; so, naturally I went to a city with 2.1 million people within it. But that was kind of the point.

Everyone was doing something. All those around me in the wine bar were catching up with pals or talking business. I sat and let it all happen. I let my brain wander from one thought to the next, and thought about those things that you don’t have any time to pay attention to when you’re socialising.

I’d love for it to be more normal to do things on our own. Why is it you have to be above a certain age to have an overly priced flat white while watching the trials and tribulations of the high street?

You don’t have to banish any social life you’ve ever had – socialising is one of the great things of all the great things. Do though go to a gig even if no one is free, or just go and have a beer at the pub enjoying the one afternoon of winter sunshine we’re getting this month. Break through the awkwardness, and I promise you’ll enjoy it even more the second time around.

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