Amersham A Capella are UK champions! 

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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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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Bucks hospice charity remembers lost loved

Liz Nicholls

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The Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care team are once again offering people the chance to remember the lives of loved ones with its annual Light up a Life campaign.

The charity will host two Light up a Life services in the lead-up to Christmas.

The first event will be held at Duke Street Gardens in Princes Risborough at 4pm on Sunday, 24th November. It will be hosted by the Rotary Club of Princes Risborough as an outdoor Tree of Light service including readings, poems, and carols.

The second event will be held at All Saints Parish Church in High Wycombe at 2pm on Saturday, 30th November. Hosted by the Rennie Grove Peace High Wycombe Fundraising Group, the service will include carols and readings followed by the switching on of the Christmas tree lights.

Local people are invited to light a candle in memory of a loved one. Those attending the High Wycombe event will also have the opportunity to hang a silver star with a personalised message on a special tree of remembrance.

The services are free to attend and open to anybody who has been bereaved and would like to remember the people they miss in this special way.

Those who can’t attend in person are invited to dedicate a star in memory of the people they miss. Anyone who makes a donation to the charity will receive a star and card to personalise and display at home during the festive season.

Tracey Hancock, Director of Fundraising at Rennie Grove Peace, says: “We know that this time of year can be very difficult for anybody who has been bereaved. By offering people the chance to dedicate a star or attend our remembrance service we hope we are giving them a chance to remember the people they have lost, at the same time as supporting our work.

“Every penny raised through donations at the event and star dedications will be used to provide vital hospice care services for people in our community who are living with life-limiting illnesses.”

To find out more visit Light up a Life – Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care

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Chiltern Made gifts at The Elgiva

Liz Nicholls

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The fourth Chiltern Made artisan gift fair in Chesham on Saturday, 30th November is a great chance to shop for goodies crafted with love by Bucks creatives

One of the highlights of the year returns to The Elgiva for its fourth outing, running 10.30am to 4pm.

This vibrant fair brings together 35 hand-picked artisan makers and artists, showcasing some of the finest craftsmanship the Chilterns has to offer. Explore unique, high-quality gifts, including ceramics, jewellery, textiles, woodwork, handmade produce, glass art, hand weaving, blacksmithing – and much more. It’s the perfect chance to support local creatives and discover one-of-a-kind gifts and decorations for your loved ones (or yourself…) and celebrate local talent!

Chiltern Made organisers Liz Turner and Laura Collins, who are makers themselves, say: “As always, it was a challenge to choose from so many amazing applications, but we’re confident that visitors will love this year’s fair. Along with some fantastic new makers, we’re also welcoming back a few returning favourites. It’s going to be a wonderful event!”

These include Widmer End-based Create Your Happy, Marie Jones who specialises in felt and embroidery work and stocks DIY needle felting kits and Chesham jewellery maker Made to Scale. You can also enjoy contemporary, affordable fused glass pieces from JHS Glass designed and made by Jenny Hoole and wood-lathed pieces and bird boxes, bat roosts and more crafted by Chris at Holmsdale Wood.

Run by Anna, Wildflower Botanicals is an independent Chesham-based business offering natural products for wellbeing and Heidi H Studio makes and designs contemporary jewellery and wall art.

Entry is £2.50pp, and there’s a café on site and car park outside. For info visit Home – Elgiva Theatre Chesham

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Accessible Boating Thames’ fab new ‘wheelyboat’

Liz Nicholls

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Thanks to a dedicated team, the Bisham charity Accessible Boating Thames has launched a new ‘wheelyboat’ to help more people enjoy the river, regardless of ability or mobility

Old Father Thames has carved out much history in this part of the world, as well as the landscape.

But people who have some form of disability haven’t always found it easy to enjoy messing about on the river, which is why Accessible Boating Thames began its mission.

The charity based at Bisham Abbey has for many years provided water-based experiences for those who are not usually able to do so. By using specially adapted boats, trained and qualified volunteers and a hoist, the severity of disability has never been a barrier to participation.

After identifying a real need, the charity began working with national charity The Wheelyboat Trust and together embarked on a major fundraising initiative to secure the £68,000 required to fund a new ‘Wheelyboat’. As a result of these tremendous efforts, a Coulam V20 Wheelyboat was launched at the Bisham Abbey Sailing & Navigation School earlier this autumn.

Charity chairman Gavin Tisshaw said: “This is a momentous occasion for ABT – securing our own Wheelyboat will make such a difference and ensure we can continue to help those who need our services. We’re immensely grateful to all those who’ve helped us raise the funds. Our volunteers do a fantastic job and we offer opportunities from family picnics to full sailing opportunities, Bellboat sessions & Duke of Edinburgh trips.”

Visit Accessible Boating Thames

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Old Amersham Christmas Festival, 6th December

Liz Nicholls

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You’re all invited to celebrate the Magic of Christmas in Amersham Old Town, 4-8pm on Friday, 6th December

It’s that time again, the Old Amersham Christmas Festival is back!

The new-look Christmas Festival 2023 was a huge success and attracted over 5000 visitors. This year’s Festival is set to be even bigger and brighter.

Taking over the historic Old Town on Friday 6th December, 4-8pm, this magical late-night shopping extravaganza is the place to be.

Expect festive fun for all the family. Enjoy live music from the Amersham Band and the Barbershop Choir while shopping for Christmas gifts in the local shops and boutiques – most stores offering exclusive special offers for one-night-only. Browse the carefully curated collection of local traders in Cooper’s Market, all while indulging in mulled wine and delicious foodie treats from the local restaurant, cafes and pubs.

Twinkling Christmas lights are set to illuminate the town with the Christmas tree light switch-on at 6pm from a surprise local celebrity guest. No festive event would be complete without the most famous guest for all – little ones can meet Father Christmas and his ‘real life’ reindeers for a magical moment. A vintage fair with traditional ferris wheel, swing boats, go-carts and roaming stilt walkers add to the enchanting atmosphere. While face painting, Christmas-crafting, selfies with Rudolf and ‘pig-petting’ bring more family fun to the festivities.

Diana Halley, co-owner of Fabric Boutique which will be open late during the festival, says, “This fabulous Christmas Festival not only provides a platform for local artisans and businesses, but it’s also a gathering place for the community to join together to support and celebrate their town during the festive season. A torch light procession with pupils from St Mary’s Primary School will parade from the church to the Christmas Tree for more festive cheer and carol singing. The vision is to create a sparkling festive event for the whole community, and as with previous Christmas evenings our charity partner is ScannAppeal who will be running their popular Golden Tombola and offering hot chocolate in a ‘warm space’ upstairs in the Market Hall.”

Mark the date in your diary, it’s a not-to-be-missed event and prepare to be dazzled by a truly magical experience. Combine Christmas shopping with exploring the Old Town in all its festive glory, from the lights and fun entertainment, to the fabulous in-store offers, tasty foodie treats and artisan gifts from the Cooper’s Market stalls.

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Seeds of change in Missenden gardens

Liz Nicholls

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Your garden might look bare right now but Missenden Seeds can help you plant a brighter future thanks to sustainable seeds & tubers, including dahlias

Missenden Seeds is a small, independent company run by enthusiastic local grower Carolyn. Summer might feel forever away but this month Carolyn is sowing sweet peas… “I love sweet peas,” she tells us. “I find they make stronger plants and flower earlier if I start them off in autumn. I’m also sowing lots of hardy annuals, biennials and perennials, things like calendula, poppies, astrantia, foxgloves, hollyhocks. As soon as we get the first frost I’ll dig up and store all the dahlia tubers, which is a lot of work but with our heavy clay soil I can’t leave them in over winter.

Carolyn is passionate about perennials, biennials and annuals which make beautiful cut flowers and good for pollinators. “We believe growing flowers should be simple and sustainable. All the seeds and tubers we stock are grown by us, we don’t import or repackage seeds or dahlia tubers. We also only stock open-pollinated varieties from which you can save seed year after year – no F1 varieties here!”

On a small site in the village, Missenden Seeds uses no chemicals and is peat free. “As the seeds are open-pollinated there is always the chance that the odd seedling may not appear exactly the same as its parent, but may be something even lovelier. Some can produce beautiful variations – particularly in the case of dahlia seeds where every plant you grow will be different to its parent and totally unique.

“I’ve lived in Great Missenden for many years and my children all go to school locally. I feel very lucky to live somewhere with such beautiful countryside on the doorstep and such a great range of local shops and places to eat.

“It’s hard to choose my favourite flower but if I had to pick just one thing to grow it would be dahlias. There’s a dahlia for every situation, they flower for months until the first frost and come in such a range of colours, forms and sizes. My favourite this year has been Labyrinth, a striking large decorative variety in pink and peach.”

Claim a 10% discount with Carolyn’s code, BLOOM at Missenden Seeds. Also follow @missendenseeds on Instagram for news.

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Soumya Dinesh’s best bits of Bucks!

Liz Nicholls

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In our latest Bucks vox pop, the MD & co-founder of Atula Technologies shares what she loves about Stokenchurch & the surrounding area

Hi Soumya! Please could you tell us a bit about yourself?
“I’m just on the cusp of moving to the other side of the 50s. I have two grown-up boys I’ve lived in Stokenchurch for the past 15 years. As for work, at Atula Technologies we build e-commerce platforms and software to solve unique business problems. I take the fear and uncertainty out of technology so it’s accessible to everyone. I love it when I can explain to small business owners how they can add value to their business using technology or plan a business exit strategy or a passive income during retirement.”

Q. That sounds rewarding!
“Yes, I like to spend time understanding the business values and mission so that technology can be used to achieve them. For example, I’m helping build a website that’s accessible to the sight-impaired to help achieve the company’s mission for accessibility and inclusivity.”

Q. Are there any local teachers worth a shout-out?
“Both my boys went to school locally, and I am so glad they did! I’d love to give a huge shout-out to the lovely Mrs Katie Hayes who has been a music teacher for over 50 years and also Mr Venvell who used to be the music director at the Royal Grammar School in High Wycombe.”

Q. What are you favourite walks?
“There are far too many! Along the canal in Wendover is just as rejuvenating as the walk in the woods and fields behind Peterley Manor Farm, as is the walk inside West Wycombe Estate. I also enjoy visiting the woods in Hughenden and Bradenham. The beautiful views from Whiteleaf Hill are also well worth mentioning.”

Q. What do you most love about where you live?
“Having the gorgeous countryside on our doorstep! I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Q. What are your favourite local pubs or restaurants?
“I really enjoy Vaasu in Marlow and Wagamamas in High Wycombe.”.

Q. What about shops or local businesses?
“The Apple Orchard in West Wycombe village all day long! Their café serves up the best coffees and cakes and the gift shop is such a wonderful place to just meander around.”

Q. Where is your favourite landmark or hidden secret?
“The churchyard near the river in Marlow and the bridge over the river.”

Q. Are you a member of any local groups?
“I’ve recently become a member of the BoB High Wycombe networking group. Although it is business-focused, the people there are absolutely fantastic. Not only do we get business done, but everyone supports each other outside of work, raises money for charity and has fun along the way.”

Q. Finally, if you could make one wish for the world, what would it be?
“That people are more accepting: of themselves, and the people around them!”

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Dazzling seasonal highlights across Bucks

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Winter is coming, which means dark nights! But here’s our guide to highlights which are sure to lift spirits & keep the gloom at bay…

November beckons… so are we safe to start talking about Christmas now?! I know it’s not technically Advent yet (before the sticklers write in!) but, after the dazzling delights of Diwali and Bonfire Nights have finished lighting up the skies, we’re looking for other seasonal highlights. And there’s plenty cheer here to light up our lives!

Get your flow on at The Realms of Mystica lantern festival walk at the Dinosaur & Farm Park in Milton Keynes, MK15 0DT, from 1st November; Land of Lights Festival Milton Keynes | Land of Lights Festival Milton Keynes

The atmospheric greenhouses at Peterley Manor Farm near Great Missenden, HP16 0HH, will be chock-full of goodwill and festive cheer for the Christmas Market, 14th-17th November. You’ll find more than 70 boutique shopping stalls, food and drink, a local talent music tent, street food area, fire pits & more; visit Peterley Manor Farm | A family run farm set in the Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire

With a sprinkle of magic, between 15th November & 5th January, Waddesdon Manor and its gardens, HP18 0JH, turns into a Sleeping Beauty-inspired wonderland with light projections on the manor’s façade. Explore the beautifully illuminated gardens and woodland trails; perfect for families or couples looking to light up date night! Inside the manor, opulent decorations and exhibits will offer a Victorian Christmas. The Christmas market, running until 22nd December, offers hand-crafted gifts, festive food and more. Waddesdon Manor | A French Renaissance-style château

Windsor Great Park Illuminated is returning for its fourth year to light up the iconic Great Park, SL4 2HT, 15th November to 4th January and dogs are welcome, too! For more info & to book please visit Windsor Great Park Illuminated: light up your year!

High Wycombe will offer you a warm welcome in the High Street & Frogmoor, 1-6pm on Saturday, 16th November for the Christmas Lights Festival featuring music, entertainment & more; visit – HWBIDCo for more info.

Marlow’s Christmas Lights Switch-On on Thursday, 21st November, will bring lots of sparkle to the high street with carol singers, live performances, and late-night shopping; Home – Marlow Town Council. More late-night shopping on 5th December, too! Marlow Chamber of Commerce | Business Networking & Events

Chesham’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is all set for 6-9pm on Friday, 22nd November. Enjoy live performances, Santa’s grotto at Chapter Two bookshop, a funfair, music and dance, food, drink & craft stalls. Visit Chesham Events.

Great Missenden High Street will be all-atwinkle, 3-8pm on Saturday, 23rd November. Head along to shop for artisan produce, tuck into street food and be dazzled by entertainment. Cooper’s Markets – Old Amersham Artisan Market

Enjoy a festive family adventure with rides, a Santa’s grotto & gifts, 23rd November to 23rd December at Gulliver’s Land Milton Keynes, MK15 0DT. Visit Gulliver’s Land Theme Park Resort | Milton Keynes

Christmas On The Cobbles in the Market Square & Exchange, Aylesbury, 12-5.30pm on Sunday 24th will offer market stalls, an illuminated parade, theatre stars, Santa & fireworks; Aylesbury Town Council

Christmastime at Stowe Gardens, MK18 5EQ offers a serene escape into one of Bucks’ most famous landscapes. From 24th November to 5th January, experience the stately grounds illuminated with interactive light displays, enjoy storytelling for children and warm up treats at the café or make a wreath.

Celebrate Christmas with a Scandinavian twist at Hughenden Manor, HP14 4LA, from 25th November to 3rd January. Disraeli’s former gaff will be transformed into a Nordic winter wonderland, the manor house, gardens, and stable yard adorned with decorations. Follow a festive trail, enjoy storytelling, take part in crafting activities, enjoy choir performances and seasonal food. Visit National Trust

Buckingham’s light switch-on will draw happy families, 4-7pm on Thursday, 28th November, outside The Old Gaol with stalls, lots of live entertainment & food; Buckingham Town Council

Beaconsfield Festival of Light will dazzle in the new town on Wednesday, 4th December, from 6pm. Enjoy the children’s lantern parade, Christmas Shopping, market stalls, a food court and lots of entertainment. For more info please visit Beaconsfield Festival of Lights

The Feast of St Peter team have organised a family friendly highlight in Chalfont St Peter on Friday, 6th December in Market Place. Head along to enjoy stalls, entertainment, family fun & more; Christmas Fun Night — Feast of St Peter

Finally, don’t miss perfect panto; Aladdin, 13th December to 5th January at Wycombe Swan. We’ll bring you our interview with shining star Vernon Kay next month! Book Show Tickets | Wycombe Swan Theatre

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Beautiful, bespoke lampshades made in Bucks

Liz Nicholls

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Tracy Watson has turned her creative hand to a range of beautiful lampshades. Check them out at Peterley Christmas Market, 14th to 17th November

Looking to light up your life!? Wife & Mum Tracy Watson, who lives in Great Kingshill, has had the same bright idea.. And we’re thrilled to share the results as we enter the darkest months of the year.

Blue Boy Furniture is named after Tracy’s beloved little boy Charlie, who passed away when he was five and forever remains her ‘little blue boy’. Using her grief as a spark for creativity, Tracy has spent the past five years refreshing stylish homes across Bucks & beyond. This year she began making lampshades and fixtures from cotton and linen fabrics – often limited-edition remnants – ensuring individuality and style.

Tracy says: “I came up with the idea when I needed a new lampshade for my own home, and could only find white or grey in main high street stores. I wanted something which would add an injection of pattern and colour to the room, without a full-on maximalist look.

“Our stock is continuously evolving, but if you can’t see something that catches your eye, or have a traditional frame you would like recovering, please get in touch and let’s talk about a commission for you!”

Suitable for both ceiling fixtures and lamp bases, Tracy’s handmade lampshades are fire-retardant and compatible with bulbs up to 40 watts. Tracy has been painting furniture and crafting home decor items since she bought her first house in the 1990s. Inspired by upcycling programmes she began painting and refurbishing the quality vintage furniture finds.

“Blue Boy Furniture has mushroomed,” says Tracy. “I begam painting furniture for resale, quickly progressing into refurbishing customers’ own furniture. Having a piece of your own furniture painted can turn it from dull, drab and unfitting in your home into a stunning, unique statement piece you love.”

Tracy’s painting has expanded to kitchen cabinets and built-in wardrobes too. She says: “I’m painting kitchens for customers who want to refresh their homes without the expense and inconvenience of installing new cabinets” Tracy stocks a range of paints online and offers training videos.

Visit Blue Boy Furniture | Painting and Upcycling Home Furniture & follow blueboyfurniture on Instagram for more info to get in touch.

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