100 years of swing and big band classics come to Wycombe Swan this May

Zoe Gater

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The LP Swing Orchestra returns to Wycombe Swan Theatre this May, with a spectacular swing concert raising funds for Karibuni Children.

A century of swing is coming to Wycombe Swan Theatre this spring, as the LP Swing Orchestra presents its spectacular fundraising concert, Another… 100 Years of Big Band Music, on Sunday 31 May 2026.

Led by acclaimed Artistic Director Georgina Jackson – who will both sing and play trumpet throughout the performance – the 17-piece orchestra will be joined by celebrated vocalists Matthew Ford and Nicola Emmanuelle for an afternoon of timeless swing classics and modern big-band favourites.

Audiences can expect a musical journey spanning 100 years, from the New Orleans sound of Louis Armstrong and the Paul Whiteman Orchestra to the golden age of Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Glenn Miller.

The programme includes iconic songs such as Mack the Knife, St Louis Blues, What a Wonderful World, I’ve Got You Under My Skin and The Lady is a Tramp, alongside contemporary hits associated with Michael Bublé and Harry Connick Jr – while paying tribute to legendary big-band vocalists like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sammy Davis Jr.

Fans of last year’s performance can also look forward to the return of the orchestra’s much-loved rendition of Rhapsody in Blue.

More than just an afternoon of world-class music, the concert will raise funds for Karibuni Children, a Buckinghamshire charity helping communities in Kenya through education, vocational training and sustainable development projects.

David Farmer, Chair of Karibuni Children, expressed his sincere thanks to the LP Swing Orchestra and Wycombe Swan for their support of this fundraising concert. He stated, “I can’t think of a better combination for a May Sunday afternoon – listening to an exceptional big band playing some of my favourite music, while raising money for a great cause. I am hoping that we can fill the Wycombe Swan with like-minded people!”

Another… 100 Years of Big Band Music takes place at 3pm on Sunday 31 May 2026 at Wycombe Swan Theatre.

For more information or to buy tickets, visit trafalgartickets.com/wycombeswan-theatre/en-GB/event/music/another-100-years-of-big-bands-tickets.

In partnership with Karibuni Children

Karibuni Children is a Buckinghamshire-based charity that works to help Kenyan children to fulfil their potential and release themselves from the cycle of poverty.

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The Base Greenham’s Festival of Arts and Crafts returns this summer

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

From hands-on workshops and interactive art to live music and artisan food, the Festival of Arts and Crafts promises a full celebration of creativity, craftsmanship and community spirit.

This summer, The Base Greenham will transform into a lively hub of creativity as it hosts the Festival of Arts and Crafts 2026, running from Saturday 6 to Sunday 21 June.

Across two weeks, visitors can explore a packed programme celebrating local makers, artists, and hands-on creativity.

Opening weekend

The festival launches with a vibrant Craft Fair on 6–7 June (10am–5pm), taking over the grounds around The Base.

Visitors can expect a bustling marketplace of handmade arts and crafts, accompanied by live music from local performers, supported by sponsor Honesty Group, alongside artisan food and drink stalls and the on-site café.

Entry is via a suggested £2 donation, supporting The Base’s charitable work in the community. Free parking is available nearby, with Blue Badge parking on site and accessible public transport links.

Art exhibition and interactive installations

Running daily throughout the festival (10am–5pm), a major art exhibition will showcase over 150 original works by local artists, all available to purchase. Entry is free, though booking is recommended.

The Runway Gallery will also be transformed into a large-scale interactive chalkboard doodle wall, inviting visitors of all ages to contribute and watch the artwork evolve across the fortnight.

Workshops, experiences and creative sessions

A series of taster workshops returns, offering opportunities to try printmaking, beginner oil painting, pottery throwing, willow coaster making, and experimental landscape art.

Sessions are designed for all abilities and are expected to book quickly due to demand.

Plus, families and young visitors can enjoy free activities led by Berkshire Youth during the opening weekend, while additional storytelling and gallery sessions run on 11 and 13 June.

Unique experiences and family highlights

A standout feature includes bespoke dog “PAWtraits” by canine artist Dogs by Jeff, offering both live sittings and photo-based commissions.

These sessions are the perfect way to capture a unique snapshot of your four-legged friend. Please note, pre-booking is essential for these sessions.

For bookings and more information, visit thebasegreenham.co.uk/basefest.

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Could this be the longest Morris dance in history?

Zoe Gater

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One man will morris dance from London to Abingdon and back in just seven days, turning the Thames Path into a travelling folk festival while raising funds for six Thames Valley charities.

This May, the Thames Path will play host to a world-first challenge with a distinctly English twist. Duncan Bhaskaran Brown is attempting to morris dance 200 miles in seven days – from London to Abingdon and back – in a bid to set a new Guinness World Record.

Part endurance challenge, part travelling folk festival, 200 Miles of Morris will bring the Thames Path to life with ringing bells, flying hankies and a string of free performances in communities along the route.

And to make the record count, Duncan will dance every step of the way – maintaining the rhythm, footwork and spirit of morris across the full 200 miles. It’s a demanding physical test, powered by a commitment to keeping one of England’s oldest traditions alive.

The route traces some of the Thames Valley’s most scenic stretches, passing through Taplow, Reading, Windsor and Kingston upon Thames before returning to the capital.

“It’s going to be tough, but I’ve got a great team behind me,” Duncan says. “I’m so proud of the way the morris dancing community has come together to create this.”

Alongside the record attempt, the challenge is raising funds for six charities doing vital work across the region:

The Rowan Trust

Maidenhead Alzheimer’s Dementia Support

The Brain Tumour Charity

Thames Valley Adventure Playground

The Sherwood Foundation

and The Listening Post.

“We’re supporting some great charities from across the Thames Valley,” Duncan adds. “I’m so pleased we can support so many local charities that are important to local morris sides.”

Where to watch

That’s not all, each day finishes with a free public performance – no tickets, no booking, just turn up.

Highlights include:

Taplow – Sunday 10 May, 7pm
Reading – Monday 11 May, 7.30pm
Abingdon (Market Place) – Tuesday 12 May, 5pm
Windsor (Eton Bridge) – Thursday 14 May, 7.30pm
Kingston upon Thames (Eagle Brewery Wharf) – Friday 15 May, 7pm
Tate Modern, Bankside (grand finale) – Saturday 16 May, 3pm

Expect noise, colour and a proper celebration of English folk –with a potential world record landing at the finish line.

For more information, visit 200milesofmorris.co.uk or donate at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/duncan-bhaskaranbrown.

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Could you raise a future guide dog?

Zoe Gater

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Together with Susie Dent, Guide Dogs is calling for volunteers in areas including Didcot and Thame to help care for these future companions.

Could you help adorable puppies become life-changing guide dogs? Leading UK charity Guide Dogs is looking for more volunteers to help raise guide dog puppies during their important first year.

Guide Dogs provides a wide range of services to support people with sight loss, as well as their families. This includes helping them develop the skills they need to live independent, active lives, and running events that bring together families navigating sight loss.

With more than 250 people starting to lose their sight every day in the UK, hundreds are currently waiting for a guide dog, and the need for puppy raisers in Oxfordshire and beyond has never been greater.

As a puppy raiser, you’ll give a 6–8-week-old puppy the vital foundation for its future role as a guide dog. You’ll care for the puppy for 12–16 months, supporting its training, socialisation, and introduction to new environments and experiences, all while providing a safe, loving home.

Plus, you’ll receive full training and ongoing support, with Guide Dogs covering all dog food and veterinary costs.

Susie Dent, Countdown icon and an ambassador for Guide Dogs, said: “Having taken part in a volunteering scheme with Guide Dogs myself, I know how rewarding the experience can be. But more people are needed to help raise the next generation of guide dogs, ready for life-changing partnerships with people with sight loss.

“I’d urge anyone who wants to make a real difference, and who has time, space and love to give to a future guide dog, to volunteer as a puppy raiser.”

To support even more people with sight loss, Guide Dogs is working to increase the number of puppies being raised in Oxfordshire.

Together with Susie Dent, the charity is calling for volunteers in areas including Didcot and Thame to help care for these future guide dogs.

To find out more about volunteering as a puppy raiser, visit guidedogs.org.uk/puppyraising.

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Aylesbury Homeless Action Group crowned Rothschild Foundation Charity of the Year 2026

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

The partnership marks a significant opportunity for AHAG to expand its reach and impact at a time when demand for homelessness support continues to grow locally.

Aylesbury Homeless Action Group (AHAG) has been awarded the Rothschild Foundation Charity of the Year for 2026, following a vote by staff and volunteers at Waddesdon Manor.

The local homelessness charity, which has supported people in north Buckinghamshire since 1992, provides advice and practical assistance to individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

In the past 12 months alone, AHAG has helped more than 700 people – double the figure recorded in 2022 – reflecting rising demand for its services amid ongoing financial pressures in the region.

Its work includes housing and financial guidance, as well as access to legal and mental health support, with a focus on helping people move from crises into stable accommodation and longer-term independence.

As part of the 2026 partnership, AHAG will receive a £20,000 grant from the Rothschild Foundation, alongside support aimed at increasing awareness, volunteer engagement and fundraising capacity.

A calendar of community fundraising events is also planned, including a Solidarity Sleepout, Bake Off mornings, pub quizzes and bingo nights.

Sir Roger Wright, CEO of the Rothschild Foundation, said the decision reflected strong internal support for AHAG’s work and highlighted the importance of local charities making a difference across Buckinghamshire.

AHAG CEO James Boultbee welcomed the recognition, noting the growing number of people seeking help in recent years. He praised the dedication of the charity’s staff and volunteers, who support individuals “from crisis to being housed, settled and confident in their future,” and emphasised the vital role of community backing.

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Step back in time at The Hart Classics Transport Show

Zoe Gater

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Gareth Williams invites you to gear up for a great day out at the volunteer-run Hart Classics Transport Show on Sunday 21 June 2026.

After raising more than £7,000 for the Hants and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance in 2024 and 2025, The Hart Classics Transport Show returns at a new venue – the grounds of the Elvetham Hotel, between Fleet and Hartley Wintney.

The spacious site features a firm, riverside field with plenty of room for classic cars, motorcycles, trade stands and food vendors.

On the day, visitors can enjoy live music, a variety of food and drink options and a licensed bar, while little ones can have fun in the children’s play area, featuring small fairground-style attractions.

The main attraction is the display of classic vehicles – and with more than 250 cars and motorcycles attending last year, a similarly strong turnout is expected for the 2026 event.

Vehicles are grouped into age-based classes, while clubs are accommodated so that members can display together where possible.

On the day, judges award trophies for the best car and motorcycle in each class, alongside special prizes including Best in Show, Ladies’ Choice and Spirit of Motoring.

Organisers expect a wide range of exhibits, from pre-World War Two models to modern classics and supercars, as well as commercial and agricultural vehicles.

All profits go to charity, supporting the Hants and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, which provides a vital emergency service across the region.

Cars and their passengers can enter the site from 8am, with the public admitted from 10am. The event ends after judging at 4pm.

Cars, motorbikes and commercial vehicles with driver and one passenger are charged £10 plus a £1.20 booking fee. Other visitors £5, children under 12 free. Visitor parking is free.  

For more information and online entry, visit hartclassics.co.uk.

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East Meon Flower Festival is back in all its blooming glory

Zoe Gater

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Don’t miss your chance to see beautiful blooms and flourishing florets at East Meon Flower Festival, when it returns this May 2026.

For four days, the beautiful Grade I-listed All Saints’ Church will be dressed to the nines with stunning floral displays for the East Meon Flower Festival – transforming the historic 11th-century building into a celebration of creativity, nature and community.

Taking place from Friday 22 to Monday 25 May, this year’s festival will feature more than 20 floral-themed displays, each created by and representing the groups and societies that make up village life in East Meon.

From farming communities and the cricket team to cold-water swimmers, allotment holders, beekeepers and the local history society, the displays will reflect the village’s rich character and diversity.

Wherever possible, arrangements will use locally sourced, environmentally friendly materials.

While celebrating creativity and community, the festival also highlights a serious purpose. As a unique and very old building, All Saints’ requires constant care, and urgent repair and renovation work is needed; and proceeds from the Flower Festival will directly support some vital projects.

Alongside the floral displays, visitors can enjoy delicious teas, a local artists’ exhibition in the church hall, live jazz, daily history tours, and the melodic bells pealing over the weekend, too. Tickets from ticketsourced.co.uk/eastmeonflowerfestival2026.

And, as a special one-off event, the Octavus Choir will perform on Saturday 23 May at 7pm in the church, with a floral-themed programme of music and poetry.

Tickets sold separately and include a glass of wine! Tickets at tinyurl.com/bdekfrz9.

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Give retired hens a forever home – before Friday

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

Could you offer a loving home to some joyful characters? Friendly, curious, and surprisingly affectionate, hens make brilliant pets – and they reward their keepers with the occasional fresh egg too.

This spring, the British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) is offering a special opportunity to give 200 ex-commercial laying hens the retirement they truly deserve.

On Sunday 12 April 2026, the Guildford rehoming event will welcome these resilient hens into loving new families – but their next chapter can only begin if animal lovers register by 2pm on Friday 10 April.

After spending their first 18 months producing eggs for supermarkets without pause, these hens’ commercial careers are over. Yet they still brim with curiosity, personality, and affection – ready to bring joy and warmth to those who open their hearts to them.

BHWT wants people to know that these gentle, funny, and curious birds make wonderful companions – with personalities as distinct as any pet cat or dog.

Andy Hill from the BHWT says: “People are often surprised by how much joy hens bring. They’re funny, curious little characters, they love routine, and they’re genuinely a delight to care for. Plus, they’re still more than happy to pop out the occasional egg.

“With spring finally here, this is the ideal time to start. These girls are more than ready for a fresh beginning, and they really do make wonderful pets.”

If you’d like to welcome some feathered friends into your home, register by 2pm on Friday 10 April to attend the rehoming event on Sunday 12 April.

To adopt, visit bhwt.org.uk/hen-adoption and click ‘adopt’ next to your nearest location, or call the BHWT Rehoming Team on 01884 860084.

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National Garden Scheme spaces to visit in Buckinghamshire

Zoe Gater

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Liz Nicholls invites you to visit a garden near you, as part of another record-breaking fundraising year thanks to the National Garden Scheme (NGS).

This spring, gardens big and small across Bucks and beyond will open their gates, inviting visitors just like you to wander among blooms, breathe in the scents of herbs and flowers and find moments of calm.

The NGS fundraiser reached a record £3.8 million total last year, in its most successful year yet, supporting nursing and health charities nationwide. With 3,000 gardens across the UK opening this year – including 500 newbies. Could you help make 2026 yet another charity record-breaker?

A Beaconsfield garden with heart

Bernadette and John Thompson have been welcoming visitors to their curvaceous Barbara Hunt-designed garden in Beaconsfield for more than 20 years with the NGS.

“Although our garden isn’t huge, we attract plant-lovers who spend at least an hour looking round, chatting to other visitors and us,” Bernadette tells me. “It’s a joy to share tea and cake and watch people enjoy the space we love so much.”

The couple say that opening their garden for visitors is as much about community as it is about flowers.

“We’ve welcomed groups from as far afield as France and Switzerland as well as the UK,” adds Bernadette.

Their garden in Brownswood Road opens by arrangement between now and the middle of September for groups of up to 15 people; adults £4pp, children free.

Please email tbernadette60@gmail.com for info.

Must-visit gardens across Bucks

Other Bucks gems include Overstroud Cottage, an artistic chalk garden on two levels overlooking Great Missenden. With a collection spanning 17th- and 18th-century plants, auriculas, hellebores, peonies, rambling roses, and a lily pond, it offers both history and horticultural delight.

Visitors can attend an open afternoon, 2–5pm on Easter Sunday, 5th April, with cream teas at the parish church; £4.50pp, children free.

Bledlow Manor, near Princes Risborough, includes 12 acres of sculpted gardens, water features, and walled kitchen gardens; it will welcome visitors 2–5pm on 19th July, with tea, coffee, and cake available.

Copperkins Lane in Chesham Bois also offers a beautiful local retreat, with bespoke visits for groups throughout the season.

A record-breaking impact for health charities

“It’s extraordinary to see so many gardens welcoming visitors, and the generosity of our garden owners and volunteers continues to amaze me,” says NGS Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton who has created gardens for hospitals and hospices.

“Each cup of tea served, each garden opened makes a tangible difference to health and care charities across the UK. “I’ve always been passionate about the effect gardens and gardening can have on wellbeing.

“Gardening and spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Programmes such as the NGS not only raise vital funds but also promote wellbeing for visitors and volunteers alike. What’s more, spring and summer are a wonderful time to explore, and children can often go free, so it’s a very pocket-friendly outing for the whole family to enjoy.”

More than just a garden visit

Opening a garden is about more than just fundraising. For many owners, it’s a reason to maintain their plots to perfection, try new planting ideas, and connect with fellow horticulturists.

In Beaconsfield, John and Bernadette are happy to report that the rhythm of preparing for NGS visitors ensures that their garden remains vibrant and cared for all year.

The healing power of green spaces

Across the UK, NGS gardens range from tiny urban plots to sprawling country estates. Each garden has its own character, whether it’s a cottage garden full of traditional charm, a chalk garden of rare botanical specimens, or a sculpture-filled landscape. And with by-arrangement visits, even smaller or private gardens can share their beauty with visitors.

Plan your visit

So this year, make time to explore Buckinghamshire’s best blooms and perhaps discover the therapeutic magic of gardens. Whether you’re an avid gardener or a first-time visitor, the NGS, which celebrates its centenary in 2027, opens doors – and hearts – across the county.

With tea, cake, and the chance to support local nursing and health charities, a visit is both a treat and a contribution.

For full listings, ticket info, and garden opening details, please visit ngs.org.uk.

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Fleet Lions celebrates its 39th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours in 2026

Zoe Gater

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Join Fleet Lions for the 39th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours on Monday 4 May 2026 – and boost local charities.

“Get the bike out of the garage, change the oil, check the plugs and give it a polish – unless it is in wonderful ‘as original’ condition, then please don’t show it the polishing rag, it will have a heart attack!”

Wise words from Fleet Lions who are revving up for this year’s Motorcycle Run and Concours on Monday 4 May 2026.

Polished or not, it’s time to register your bike and be part of this fantastic day of classic bikes, a great ride and good company all while supporting Fleet Lions for the early May bank holiday.

Starting in The Key car park at Elvetham Heath on the A323 Fleet to Hartley Wintney Road (///wallet.twinkling.bonkers), the event normally attracts well over 200 entrants with bikes ranging from the early 1900s to the later classics, with conditions varying from untouched original to gleaming concours restoration.

Riders come from far and wide around the South East to take part, with it becoming a well-established event in the enthusiasts’ calendar.

If you’ve not been recently or are a virgin in the classic bike world, join Fleet Lions for the 39th run from the car park around the Hampshire and Berkshire countryside and returning for the Concours in the afternoon.

The route will be the tried, tested and much-loved route that has been ridden on for many years (subject to change), which if you have not been before uses good country roads, not one-track lanes with loose gravel in the middle.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast between 9.30am and 10.30am courtesy of the Lions catering team, washed down with a tea or coffee at half price if you bring your own re-usable cup.

Enjoy catching up with riders and visitors, old and new, have a chat, compare notes and then you’ll be ‘fuelled up and ready for the off at 11am.

The road run is approximately 46 miles (subject to change). Route cards, numbers, and badges, etc., will be issued on registration at the start in the car park.

There will be no time checks or observed sections. Riders will be despatched at suitable intervals in order to avoid congestion.

The route is marked at junctions where a turn is required by arrows on the road signs.

The Calleva Arms in Silchester, roughly half way round the route, has kindly agreed to host any riders who wish to stop there for any refreshments.

Pre-registration costs £11 or £14 on the day.

All riders receive an enamel commemorative badge.

To take part, register here: fleetlions.org.uk/booking35 and for more information, including the Concours Classes, visit fleetlions.org.uk/fundraising/motorcycle.

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