Peppa Pig Live is back in a brand new ‘oinktastic’ stage show

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

Peppa Pig and her family prepare for an oinktastic day of fun, as the world-famous pig appears live on stage at Wycombe Swan, in April 2026.

Join Peppa and – for the very first-time – baby Evie, as they embark on their latest adventure in Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show when it appears on stage at the Wycombe Swan in April 2026.

With a new arrival on the way the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done, it’s an oinktastic makeover and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig & George all need your help to get everything ready before the arrival of baby Evie!

There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time?

With performances on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 April 2026, the show is packed full of songs, laughter, and interactive fun, it’s the perfect introduction to theatre for little ones.

Bringing Peppa and friends to life is a talented cast of actors, singers and puppeteers including Charlie Culkin, Cinem Gopaul, Cate Brookes and real-life married couple Emma Hilts and David Tudor.

The production is directed and co-adapted by Richard Lewis, who said: “It’s a new era for Peppa and her family as we introduce Baby Evie alongside Peppa, her friends and family to a live theatre audience, in a show that brings a heart-warming and relatable new story, packed full of fun, to life.”  

For more information or to book tickets, visit trafalgartickets.com.

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Cookham author launches children’s book inspired by the Thames

Zoe Gater

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In an exciting new chapter for author and mum Amanda Boulding, Save Our River! has been published by The Lela Initiative as the first title in a new children’s series, The Willow Bank Tales.

For those living in Cookham and Marlow, the River Thames is a familiar and much-loved presence, winding gently through the landscape. Now it has become the inspiration for a new picture book carrying an important message for young readers.

Amanda’s Save Our River! is a gentle yet hopeful story aimed at Reception and Key Stage 1 children.

The book follows a family of otters who discover pollution flowing into their peaceful backwater. In one of the story’s most striking moments, the animals gather white shells and arrange them on the riverbank to spell out a powerful message: “SAVE OUR RIVER!”

Living close to the Thames in Cookham, Amanda has drawn heavily on the wildlife that can be spotted along the river locally. The pages are filled with her hand-drawn illustrations of willow-lined banks, darting kingfishers and, of course, the otters at the heart of the tale.

The book also marks a significant milestone for Amanda, who has recently signed with the publishing house The Lela Initiative. Save Our River! is the first title in the forthcoming series The Willow Bank Tales, which will introduce young readers to stories inspired by river life.

At its heart, the story celebrates teamwork, courage and caring for the places we love – a message that will resonate with families living along this treasured stretch of the Thames.

Save Our River! is available now from bookshops in Henley and Marlow.

For more information, visit amandaboulding.com.

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Eden Shopping Centre marks 18 years with ‘Faces of Eden’ community exhibition

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

To mark its 18th anniversary, Eden Shopping Centre presents Faces of Eden, celebrating 18 local people whose contributions shape the character and community spirit of High Wycombe.

Situated in the centre of High Wycombe, Eden Shopping Centre marks its 18th anniversary in 2026 with its special Faces of Eden exhibition celebrating the people who bring the centre and community to life.

Running from Saturday 28 March until Sunday 5 April 2026, the project shines a light on the diverse faces that live, work and visit the town centre – from students and families to local business owners, creatives and long-time residents.

Displayed throughout the centre, stretching from Skechers to Hotel Chocolat, the curated showcase features 18 portraits capturing the people behind the campaign. Each portrait highlights the personality, stories, and everyday moments that make Eden more than just a shopping destination. 

Alongside each image, visitors will be able to discover the personal stories and connections that link these individuals to the centre and the town.

Visitors are invited to explore the installation as they move through the centre, discovering the faces and stories that represent the community Eden has been proud to serve for nearly two decades. 

Rebecca Gomme, Marketing Manager at Eden Shopping Centre, said: “Faces of Eden is about celebrating the people and moments that make Eden the place it is.

“This exhibition brings those stories to life and gives visitors the chance to see and connect with the individuals who make our community so special.” 

For more information, visit edenshopping.co.uk.

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The enduring charm of Midsomer Murders 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Bucks tour guide Tony Long ponders the enduring appeal of Midsomer Murders 28 years later… 

Midsomer Murders, the long-running ITV drama series, has become a phenomenon. It’s still going strong after 28 years, with 132 episodes – more than Morse, Lewis and Endeavour put together – seen by a billion people in 200 countries worldwide. 

Where is Midsomer?

But where is this fictional county of Midsomer? Overwhelmingly it is in Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. Beaconsfield, Amersham, Chesham, Marlow, Thame and Henley have all been used frequently. Not to mention the dozens of picturesque villages. Including The Lee (where the opening scene in the very first episode was filmed), Long Crendon, Little Missenden, Haddenham, Turville, Cuddington – the list goes on and on. 

These days, screen tourism is remarkably popular. Thame Midsomer Tours have been offering Midsomer walking tours. Visiting no fewer than 23 filming locations in Thame’s town centre. The group also hosts coach parties touring many of the nearby villages used in the series. Visitors come from all over the world to see the many locations. From Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, and most of Europe. Indeed, part of the 100th episode was filmed in Copenhagen, partly because the show is so popular in Denmark and many other parts of the continent. 

The Town Hall, Thame, Oxfordshire, England, UK

Why is Midsomer Murders still so popular?

But why has Midsomer Murders lasted so long and remained so popular? In 2022 ITV produced a documentary celebrating the first 25 years of the show and many of the stars pondered this question. Including John Nettles, Jane Wymark, Neil Dudgeon and Jason Hughes, to mention just a few. The answer seemed to revolve around the bizarre ways in which people are murdered and the fact that the show never takes itself too seriously. As well as, of course, the beautiful and quintessentially English villages used as the backdrop. 

The Kings Arms Hotel in Old Amersham which has featured in Midsomer Murders

Midsomer Murders is based on the Inspector Barnaby series of novels by Caroline Graham. The first of these – The Killings at Badger’s Drift – was adapted as the inaugural episode to be filmed in 1997. It was a huge success, the most popular crime drama of that year. But curiously, Caroline Graham never used the name Midsomer in any of her books. Apparently, Anthony Horowitz, the scriptwriter for that first episode, was looking at a map of Somerset and noticed the small town of Midsomer Norton. The alliteration of Midsomer and murders was impossible to resist, and Midsomer Murders was born. 

Rumour has it filming for series 25 will begin soon. So, with more than 400 murders so far, we can be sure more dastardly ways of killing people will be dreamed up. The show’s millions of fans worldwide will again be enthralled as John Barnaby solves yet more cases in the idyllic setting of Midsomer County. 

Book a Midsomer Murders tour

For more info and to book a walking tour of Thame, visit thamemidsomertours.co.uk 

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Kindness in Bucks spreads even further 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Kindness in Bucks, the community initiative founded by local mums Alison & Hannah has officially become a registered Community Interest Company (CIC) 

What began as a simple act of kindness – donating baby baskets filled with essentials to local midwives and healthcare workers — has grown into a movement across the county.  

To date, Kindness in Bucks has donated more than 700 baby baskets to local families in need. Recognising the growing need for community connection, the team expanded beyond donations.  

Led over the past eight months by Amanda, Kindness in Bucks has delivered free social events for all ages, from baby playgroups and coffee mornings to community walks and wellbeing activities for older people. More than 3,000 residents have attended these events, helping to tackle isolation and build stronger, lasting relationships within the community. 

Kindness in Bucks has supported hundreds of businesses, promoting their services and partnering with them to give free haircuts, beauty treats & more. Seasonal campaigns, such as Easter egg donations and Christmas gift drives, have brought smiles to families across Bucks. 

Alison, Hannah and Amanda run Kindness in Bucks with two part-time helpers. Together, continue to create opportunities for kindness to flourish. “We’re proud of what the community has built together,” they say. “We believe kindness is contagious and by supporting each other, we’ve made a difference.” 

Visit kindnessinbucks.com or email hello@kindnessinbucks.com

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Carlo Scotto at the Crazy Bear Beaconsfield with BEAR

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

BEAR by Chef Carlo Scotto opens at the Crazy Bear in Beaconsfield through July

Shaped by kitchens around the world, BEAR is on a mission to revolutionise the culinary world’s norms. 

Carlo Scotto bringing his new menu BEAR

Renowned for pushing culinary boundaries, Chef Carlo has created a bold tasting menu rooted in foraged and seasonal produce. His world-class technique, promises a sensory journey like no other.  

Set within an immersive open kitchen and an exclusive 14-cover chef’s table, BEAR is a reflection of who Carlo is. Born in one of the world’s ultimate foodie cities, Naples, Carlo left Italy for London after a difficult youth. He honed his talents in the kitchens of Gordon Ramsay, Angela Hartnett and the Galvin Brothers. He then opened Mayfair restaurant Amethyst.

His BEAR menu is inspired by techniques developed on his journey, including pickled attika kohlrabi, langoustine and jalapeno. It also features purple shiso with salad burnet, laminated brioche (made entirely by hand) with an unconventional three-layered butter coated in burnet hay. Moroccan spiced duck with morels poached in a home-brewed pickled aged rum, tempeh fermented British asparagus, with wild garlic and a beetroot jus.

Carlo Scotto's BEAR menu at the Crazy Bear Beaconsfield
Carlo Scotto's BEAR menu at Crazy Bear Beaconsfield

About the Crazy Bear Beaconsfield

The Crazy Bear Beaconsfield opened in 2008. The property comprises a historic 15th-century coaching inn with 48 individually styled bedrooms. It offers a unique blend of English and Thai cuisine in its two restaurants. The hotel features a large Moroccan themed bar, external terrace, meeting and event spaces that can accommodate up to 150 guests and outdoor swimming pool, alongside on-site car parking for 13 vehicles. 

For more information on local activities & events, you can find more on the Buckinghamshire news & events page.

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Roll up at Marlow Bowls Club! 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Felicity Rees invites you all to roll up at Marlow Bowls Club which will welcome you for open evenings from 25th April & open days on 2nd, 4th & 26th May 

Tucked away in the corner of Pound Lane car park and backing on to Higginson Park is the delightful bowling green of Marlow Bowls Club.  

The club is over 100 years old and has more than 100 members. However, we are always keen to welcome new players of all ages. Our outdoor season starts mid-April and continues through the summer months until mid-September. A variety of bowls can be enjoyed: including friendly roll-ups, matches against other clubs, club competitions, county matches and competitions, or even national events. 

The clubhouse has good facilities including a kitchen, changing rooms and a bar where members can buy drinks at very reasonable prices.  

Lawn bowls is an easy sport to learn. A few hours on the green with a coach (which is free of charge) teaching the basics of the game will enable you to deliver a bowl towards the jack.  It takes practice to perfect the skills of the game and learn the rules but you will soon be able to join in with others.  We have bowls available in the club for beginners to use.  

You don’t need any particular clothing for a roll-up – just a pair of smooth-soled shoes.  Members are asked to wear a club shirt and navy shorts or trousers if playing against other clubs in friendly matches or competitions.  

Potential members are welcome to come and try the game on any Friday evening from 25th April and specifically on our open days; from 6pm on Friday, 2nd May, and 10am-1pm on Sunday, 4th May, and also on Bowls England’s Big Bowls Weekend on Monday, 26th May, 10.30am- 3pm. 

For further information please contact our secretary, Peter Barltrop on 07485 289235 or email p.barltrop@btinternet.com or visit marlowbowls.co.uk. 

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Toast to Lovely Bit of Crumpet 

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

Lovely Bit of Crumpet is winning fans all over the UK thanks to Bucks-based baker Judith Bonne whose artisan goodies include an array of sweet & savoury flavours too 

Cousin to the English muffin, crumpets can be classified as small griddle breads… “However, they are not wholeheartedly accepted within the bread category and are often compared to their American relative, the pancake,” says lawyer turned crumpet baker Judith Bonne. 

Judith is on a mission to make sure crumpets are revered, not just as members of the bread family but as the upper crust. Her artisan crumpets – sold online at lovelybitofcrumpet.com & delivered fresh to foodies’ doorsteps since February 2023 – have been winning fans all over the nation. And since November, these crumpets – available in classic, cheese, chocolate and cinnamon and raisin flavours – have been selling like hot cakes in the bakery and farmshop in Manor Stables, Long Crendon. 

“The idea for Lovely Bit of Crumpet was hatched a few years ago following a tête-à-tête about the virtues and versatility of the crumpet,” says Judith, who lives in nearby Quainton with her husband Greg, children Billy and Rose and chocolate labrador Atticus. They are keen members of Chinnor Rugby Club, where Greg is the coach for U7 and U6s, alongside others who volunteer their time. 

“Our crumpets are handmade using locally sourced ingredients to guarantee texture and taste,” adds Judith, an alumna of Dr Challoner’s. “With reduced salt and no added preservatives, our artisan crumpets never compromise on quality. We make them fresh every day, with online deliveries sent next-day delivery on Wednesday, guaranteeing a crumpety weekend brunch, tea or supper. Sweet or savoury, crumpets are the ultimate comfort food, Britain’s unsung baking heroes. 

“Made from a batter of flour and yeast, their unique, hole-riddled structure makes them easily identifiable and gives them an edge over your more usual bread or pancake. Indeed, it’s these glorious hollows that make the crumpet the perfect vehicle for butter, and any of the usual toast, bagel, pancake, muffin toppings you might be familiar with. Sweet or savoury shouldn’t be a question. Both. Sometimes at the same time. Crumpets are wonderful with any jam, syrup or sweet topping, make beautiful desserts and are an excellent alternative to a scone. Equally delicious as a savoury option, crumpets and eggs are natural bedfellows, but topped with any kind of cheese (and chutney) or encasing a juicy burger are also popular options. Not forgetting Marmite!  

“Toasted and topped, the crumpet delivers every time and yet no two crumpets are the same, with their individual ‘fingerprint’ holes. Crumpets are the most versatile of breakfast produce. So versatile, in fact, that their potential extends beyond the first meal of the day and should be enjoyed at any meal possible. Including elevenses! 

Shop for crumpets, hampers, crumpet making kits & more, which make great Mother’s Day gifts, at lovelybitofcrumpet.com

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Italian classics for music-lovers in January

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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The Amersham Festival of Music team invite you to look ahead to their next highlights including an Italian concert at 4pm & 8pm on Friday, 10th January at St Mary’s

Amersham Festival of Music’s team are making a significant milestone this year: four decades of delivering world-class music to audiences.

So far, this year’s winter programme has offered an unforgettable celebration of classical music, jazz, and an exceptional programme of Italian concertos.

Festival artistic director Iain Ledingham says: “We’re delighted to celebrate our 40th anniversary with such a rich and diverse programme. From timeless masterpieces to the thrilling sounds of jazz, we are excited to offer something truly special for our audiences.”

Countess Howe has bid a fond farewell to Ian whose time as festival artistic director is drawing to a close, and welcomed his successor, Chris Hopkins, and look to the future of our much-loved Festival.

In1983 Iain set up the festival. His own stellar career at the Royal Academy of Music reflects his exceptional musicianship, which he generously brought to Bucks by establishing South Bucks Choral Society in 1980. He recognised the transformational benefits, joy and camaraderie of communal singing, taking singers with a wide range of ability, nurturing them and improving their skills. The end-product of his remarkable abilities has been choral singing of which the community can be really proud.

On Friday, 10th January, at St Mary’s in Old Amersham, two identical performances – at 4pm and 8pm – will bring music-lovers some much-needed warmth with An Italian Concert for the New Year. You’re invited to ring in 2025 with a stunning programme of Italian classics, filled with passion and exuberance. Featuring renowned soloists including soporano Daisy Livesy and violinist Charlotte Edwards and ensembles, this concert is the perfect way to start 2025 on a high note! 

At 8pm on Friday, 14th February, at St James Church, Gerrards Cross you can enjoy music from Bach, Mozart, and Schubert. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with sublime music from these three legendary composers capturing the essence of love through timeless works. 

In addition to celebrating their 40th year, the Amersham Festival of Music team remain dedicated to nurturing the next generation. Through their annual bursary scheme, they have helped more than 100 young musicians, distributing more than £20,000 in the past five years alone. These bursaries have been used to cover tuition fees or help young artists acquire much-needed instruments.

Please visit amersham festival.org and ticketsource.co.uk/amershamfestivalofmusic 

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Pia Gill’s burnt peach design inspo

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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Pia Gill, who is a local mum, graphic designer & founder of burnt peach design, tells us what she loves about Bucks life

Graphic artist, mum and self-proclaimed type addict Pia Gill cites her boys as inspiration for her creative portraits & gifts collection. 

After decades in the design and advertising world, Pia couldn’t find affordable wall art that suited her style…“That’s when I had my ‘aha’ moment and created burnt peach design,” she says. “My daily inspiration and exhaustion comes from my boys. They sparked the Little Peach Portraits collection. What began as a few portraits transformed into thousands of unique pieces sold worldwide. As the business expanded from my kitchen table, my customers grew from friends to celebrities. Soon, the portraits were featured in magazines and on popular gift guides. 

“As time went on, I decided to revisit my typography obsession (which started back in university!), and expanded my wall art offerings. Enter My Type Of…, a massive collection of designs that includes bold statement prints, graphic tees, cosy sweatshirts, cards, and so soon to me much more. My friends and family always joke that if you say a good quote in my presence, there’s a chance I’ll jot it down and turn it into something!” 

Pia, who lives in Haddenham with her boys aged nine and 10 and their cockapoo Lola, grew up in Chearsley. A freelance designer creating branding and logo design for businesses, Pia loves Bucks life, setting up burnt peach design after leaving London 12 years ago. “Our little Lola thinks she’s human!” she adds. “She always gets the best seat on the sofa! Our favourite walk is Haddenham to Dinton, ending in the Seven Stars Pub. We love lots of walks in the Chilterns, normally ending in a pub! 

“I’m a charity shop fanatic, so I love Thame, Haddenham, Princess Risborough and Marlow; all have fantastic charity shops where you can find amazing treasures. I love nothing more than a good rummage! My home is an eclectic mix of modern and vintage, as as my wardrobe.  

“As for food & drink, Cabin in Haddenham is run by my husband who’s an award-winning chef. We also love Arbequina in Oxford as well as the Magdalen Arms in Oxford.  

“I’m studying interior design and have slowly done up our bungalow over the years to make it a cosy home. I love sitting in our courtyard with a glass of wine! What I love most about this area is it’s so nostalgic from growing up here. I love being surrounded by the countryside. 

“The clothing has been selling really well at burnt peach so that’s something that I’m expanding. Still the focus is the artwork, customisable portraits and prints to create meaningful statement pieces for the home. I’m always coming up with new print ideas!”  

Pia has supported several children’s charities, including The Honey Pot Children’s Charity and Solving Kids’ Cancer and Pia sponsors a room at Centrepoint, providing shelter and hope for vulnerable youths facing homelessness.  

Visit Burnt Peach – burnt peach.

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