Greenham Common Arts Festival: 25 Years of History, Art & Magic

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Greenham Commons has gone from military base to wildlife sanctuary. Join them as they mark a special anniversary with unique performances on September 13th & 14th

Celebrate 25 Years at the Greenham Common Arts Festival

Take a journey across Greenham Common at the Greenham Common arts festival. Here, aerial circus, dance, street theatre, and music bring the site’s rich history to life. This festival marks 25 years since the common returned to public ownership. It celebrates its transformation from a military base to a wildlife sanctuary and a peace protest site. Visitors can explore the unique stories that make Greenham Common so special.

Outdoor Performances at the Greenham Common Arts Festival

During the two-day Greenham Common arts festival, enjoy captivating performances throughout the site. Highlights include Nandita Shankardass’ Roots to Rise and the Gossamer Thread Circus with Becoming FERAL. You can also see works commissioned by 101 Outdoor Arts. Furthermore, meet characters like Adderlaide, the spirit of the common, and Heath and Heather Robinson in The Common Room. Plus, experience the magical storytelling walk Common and folk songs inspired by the resilience of peace camp protesters.

These performances offer a unique blend of history, art, and community spirit, inviting everyone to engage with Greenham Common’s past and present.

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Arts & Crafts Celebration at Greenham Common

The festival also features the Festival of Arts & Crafts at The Base from September 13th to 27th. It begins with a two-day arts and crafts fair showcasing over 50 local stalls. Visitors can join creative workshops and explore an exhibition of local artists’ work. This is perfect for anyone wanting to bring home original art from the Greenham Common arts festival. The atmosphere is vibrant, lively, and perfect for families and art lovers alike.

Start your festival adventure at Venture West in Greenham Business Park. Enjoy a vibrant celebration of community, history, and creativity at the Greenham Common arts festival — a must-visit event this September.


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Musical Magic in Haslemere: The Sound of Music

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Imagine That Productions are bringing the community together for inspiring entertainment as Amanda O’Brien shares with news of their next production The Sound of Music

From Singing Lessons to Full-Scale Productions

When Philip and Amanda O’Brien founded Imagine That Productions Haslemere, they dreamed of staging full musical productions with a cast of local singers. What began as Haslemere Singing Studio in 2011 has grown into a community-led theatre company known for delivering high-quality shows.

Just ten years later, that dream came true with the launch of Imagine That Productions Haslemere as a Community Interest Company (CIC). Today, the group promotes excellent singing and stages ambitious, professional-quality shows supported by the local community.

A Special Bond with Haslemere Hall

Haslemere Hall has played a key role in the success of Imagine That Productions Haslemere. Philip, an operatic tenor, and Amanda, a classical mezzo-soprano, had both performed at the venue before meeting each other.

Now married with two children, they often share the stage as a family—joined by many friends and fellow performers from the area.

A Decade of Memorable Performances

The company’s first production, The Mikado, was a fitting choice—it was first performed in Haslemere over 100 years ago. Since then, Imagine That Productions Haslemere has presented a vibrant mix of operettas and musicals.

Shows like Die Fledermaus, Iolanthe, Oklahoma!, and Kiss Me Kate all require strong vocal technique. More recently, the group has embraced family-friendly hits such as Oliver!, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (yes, the car barely fit through the Hall’s fire doors!), and The Wizard of Oz.

Philip proudly adds that performers include children, adults—and even dogs. Last year, his own Jack Russell played Toto.

Haslemere Comes Alive with The Sound of Music

This summer, the hills of Haslemere will truly come alive with The Sound of Music. The show features a revolving stage, expert lighting by Kevin Wright, sound by MCPG, and choreography by Britain’s Got Talent finalist Reece Millard.

Philip says, “The Sound of Music is an exciting project. It’s a great chance for local amateur singers to work alongside professionals. We aim to deliver a production of the highest quality—created by and for the Haslemere community.”

As well as putting on full-scale theatrical productions, Imagine That can also be booked for private events – performing music from across classical music, operetta and music theatre. The Sound of Music is at Haslemere Hall on Friday 22nd & Saturday, 23rd August (2.30pm & 7.30pm). Tickets at £14-£18 and can be purchased here or 01428 642161

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Riding Strong for Charity: Farnham on the Move

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Pedal power will be at the forefront of this year’s Farnham Charity Bike Ride next month

Get Ready for the Farnham Charity Bike Ride 2025!

Chained to your bike or ‘all the gear but no idea’? No matter your cycling experience, the Farnham Charity Bike Ride has a route for you.

Pump up your tyres and oil your chain for Sunday, 21st September, when cyclists of all levels will ride through the stunning Surrey and Hampshire countryside.

Now in its 16th year, the Farnham Charity Bike Ride offers something for everyone. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow riders and, most importantly, ride to support great local causes!

Routes for Every Rider

Choose from four looped routes: a family-friendly 16 miles or a scenic 25-mile route across rolling hills. For more experienced cyclists, take on the classic 50-mile ride or challenge yourself with the tough 75-mile route that includes Butser Hill—the highest point in the South Downs.

Supporting Local Causes

The ride benefits several charities, including The Hedgehogs, St Andrew’s School PTA, and the Royal Surrey Charity Cancer Centre. The Hedgehogs, founded in 1959, is Farnham’s local charity dedicated to helping people in need. In the last decade alone, they have raised over £300,000.

A Community Effort

The Farnham Charity Bike Ride began in 2009 when parents at St Andrew’s School needed funds for a new roof. Since then, the event has grown significantly. Many teachers and parents volunteer during the ride to help with registration, marshalling, and refreshments. Furthermore, riders can fundraise for charities close to their hearts, making the event even more meaningful.

Fuel Up and Celebrate

Along the route, refreshment stops will offer the famous flapjacks and other tasty treats to keep you energized. Additionally, cheerful marshals will support you throughout the ride.

Everyone will start and finish in Farnham, where you can claim your medal and join the post-ride celebrations.

This year, get involved with the Farnham Charity Bike Ride and pedal for a purpose!

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The Ultimate Harvest Party: Only at Hogs Back Brewery

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It’s party time at the Hogs Back Brewery in Tongham with three days to celebrate another successful hop harvest

Hop Harvest Party weekend, September 12th-14th, will be bigger and better than ever with three days of fun, music, food and of course, beer and more.

Kicking off the Hop Harvest Party Weekend on Friday is the sensational Hogs Back Roots live music session with headliners The Shires, the country music, singer-songwriter duo. They are supported by Bryony Dunn and The Forest – expect “alt folk with hard edges, or indie rock with a soft centre” and local singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Emma Stevens with her catchy pop melodies, fused with folk and a touch of country.

Saturday brings the Hop Harvest Festival with music from Chilli Fighters, Noel Fitzpatrick Band, The Tarantinos, The Cinelli Brothers, Katy Hurt, Stop Thinking and Festival MC stand up comedian Patrick Monahan.

The three-day party winds down with a more relaxed family-friendly day with music from Ed Sheeran Experience, John Wilson Band and Hannah Dorman. The Kids Zone will be bigger and better than ever, with loads of fun for all the family.

The Hogs Back Bar will be serving a full range of Hogs Back and One Planet beers, including the legendary Tongham TEA, Hogstar Lager and Alcohol Free Little Swine Pale Ale, plus wine, gin and soft drinks. Look out for the pulled pork, BBQ, pizzas and much more. Vegan and gluten free options available.

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RHS Garden Showcases Medicinal Plant Magic

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RHS Healer’s Hollow explores the use of plants as medicine in a feature garden at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 

Discover RHS Healer’s Hollow: Celebrating Plant Folklore and Healing

Inspired by centuries of plant stories and traditional herbal medicine, RHS Healer’s Hollow invites visitors to reconnect with nature. This garden shows how plants have helped people’s health and wellbeing for many years. Moreover, it highlights the natural healing power of plants and old wisdom.

Meet the Creators of RHS Healer’s Hollow

Award-winning designers Emily Grayshaw and Jude Yeo from Inspired Earth Design in Godalming created this garden. After winning two gold medals and a Best in Show award at earlier RHS events, the RHS asked them to design this special garden. Their work focuses on the strong bond between people and plants, showing how nature can heal us.

Healing Stories Told Through Garden Design

The garden centres on Gaia, a wise healer who lives off the grid in a handmade shepherd’s hut. Through Gaia’s story, visitors learn about both old and new ways of using plants for health. For example, the garden is a calm space filled with plants known for their healing and traditional uses. It encourages everyone to explore natural remedies that have helped people for centuries.

A Closer Look at the Garden’s Features

Emily and Jude worked with local artists to create many garden features. These include botanical artwork, natural materials, and the handmade shepherd’s hut. Each element serves a purpose and tells part of the garden’s story. Additionally, the designers consulted a historical herbologist and a medicinal horticulture lecturer. Their expertise helped ensure the garden’s authenticity and educational value.

Bringing Healing to the Community

After the festival ends, parts of RHS Healer’s Hollow will move to Farncombe Community Garden near Godalming. This space, supported by local doctors, promotes social prescribing. It encourages patients and community members to engage with nature for better physical and mental health. In fact, their goal is to foster “growing community wellbeing” through gardens and green spaces.

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Unleash Your Imagination at West Ox Arts 2025

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Enjoy the Arts & Crafts 2025 exhibition in Bampton until 25th July, with affordable art to browse, too!

Art For All: Discover Creativity at West Ox Arts’ Art & Craft 2025

West Ox Arts (WOA) lives by the motto Art For All. This year, the West Ox Arts exhibition called Art & Craft 2025 invites you to explore a wide variety of creative work by members and friends. The exhibition showcases an exciting mix of mediums including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glasswork, jewellery, textiles, woodwork, and wirework. Together, these pieces create a vibrant celebration of artistic expression.

In addition to the main gallery, the exhibition space features a gallery shop. Here, you can purchase smaller items, such as jewellery, textiles, and art cards. These are handmade or printed from the artists’ original works.

WOA encourages visitors to meet the artists in person. This is a great chance to learn about their inspirations and connect with the creative minds behind the art. Whether you want to discover a new favourite artist or find the perfect piece for your home, this exhibition offers something for everyone. Most importantly, it invites you to enjoy the joy of artistic discovery.

Artists participating include Alison Fagg, Maggie White, Anne Lowe, Melanie Phillips, Sharon Rich, Liming Chen, Mora Abell, Chris Tebble, Kashmira Patel, Rupert Booth, Jenny Baxter, Melissa Orrom Swan, Liz Bryant, Pauline Carter, Felix Wilkinson, Jilly Wilkinson, Lynne Fisher, Neil George, Katerina Wild, Katheryn Dyche, Dinah Trowbridge, Judith Parker (Holder), Lindsay Viner, Judith Towle Jones, Ruth Gerring, Chris Dyche, Kevin Scully, Linda Benton, Esther Hepworth, and Philippa Norris.

The WOA gallery in Bampton is open 11.30am-4.30pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Admission is free and lift access is available. Click here for more information. WOA is a charitable organisation dedicated to promoting the arts in west Oxfordshire. Interested in becoming a member, exhibiting your work, or volunteering with WOA? Email the team on gallery@westoxarts.com.

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Sobell House: Tie a Ribbon, Share the Love

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Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons at Oxford’s University Parks invites you to celebrate great people in full colour, including Zach Lewis’s beloved dad Mickey

Join the Rainbow of Ribbons to Brighten Lives

Once again, the hospice team invites you to join the Rainbow of Ribbons hospice fundraiser, a heartwarming event that brings colour and joy to every person they care for. This fundraiser encourages the community to create a vibrant rainbow of ribbons, symbolising hope, remembrance, and support for Sobell House Hospice.

Remembering Mickey Lewis: A Legacy of Love

One person for whom the ribbons mean a lot is Zach Lewis. His dad, Mickey, an inspiring local footballer, manager, and coach, passed away in 2021. Zach and his wife Suzanne have shared how they keep Mickey’s legacy alive through Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons.

Suzanne says: “University Parks holds so many memories for us. Mickey coached the University of Oxford Football Team, and we often met his students there. Finding Mickey’s ribbon felt magical, like everything came full circle. Each colour has meaning, and each ribbon tells a story. Therefore, the event is not just remembrance — it’s a celebration of the man and Daddy we love.”

Hospice Heroes Taking on Challenges

Nicola Duckworth is swimming the channel in August with friends Steve and Carl. They hope to finish in under 15 hours; however, they will be happy just to complete the challenge. Living in Oxfordshire means limited sea swimming, so they train in lakes and make weekend trips to the coast. You can support Nicola here: Nicola Duckworth is fundraising for Sobell House Hospice Charity.

Similarly, in April, Ele and Graham completed a 24-hour cycle challenge in their garage and raised £2.6k. Ele previously did a swim challenge last summer in memory of her brother-in-law, Justin, and returned to support more this year.

Honouring Sandra: London to Paris Bike Ride

John Hill will ride from London to Paris on 31 July with five friends. This ride is in memory of his wife Sandra, who was cared for by the hospice community team at home in 2020. John and Sandra took on this challenge with friends in 2016. Six months later, Sandra was diagnosed with cancer. Now, John and his friends ride to remember her and raise awareness.

The Ashman Family’s Fundraising Triumph

The Ashman family recently held another spinathon, raising their total to over £12k! Upcoming events include Steve’s Tenby Ironman in September and three family members running the Oxford Half Marathon. Additionally, Pete is aiming for a place in the 2026 London Marathon. Thanks to their incredible commitment, the hospice team is deeply grateful for their ongoing support.

By making a dedication, you will help Sobell create a beautiful and moving display. Please visit here. You’re welcome at the launch event on Sunday, 20th July at University Parks, Oxford. The display will remain at the Parks until the end of August.

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Chef John’s Culinary Magic at The Greyhound Inn

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We chat to chef John Harrison who now leads the kitchen team at The Greyhound Inn in Letcombe Regis

Chef John: A Culinary Journey from Lancashire to The Greyhound Inn

John, a classically trained chef, moved from Preston in Lancashire to London in 2003. He began his apprenticeship at the National Portrait Gallery’s Portrait Restaurant, kickstarting his culinary career.

A Passion for Fine Dining and Michelin Stars

After gaining valuable experience in various fine dining venues, John honed his skills at Michelin-starred Paul Heathcote at Longridge. Later, he joined Marco Pierre White’s pub group in Oxford, followed by a Head Chef position at Newbury’s Manor House Hotel. There, he earned their second AA Rosette. After another time in London, John returned to Newbury in 2019, settling with his young family.

Simplicity, Flavour, and Tradition

“I have fond memories of my Grandma’s weekly baking: jam tarts, butter pies, and Eccles cakes,” says John. “Growing up, I admired Gary Rhodes and Marco Pierre White. Their ability to create dishes bursting with simple yet massive flavours is something I’ve always tried to replicate.”

With two AA Rosettes and an entry in the Good Food Guide, John’s cooking continues to attract attention. The Greyhound Inn, a charming pub-with-rooms, has earned a reputation for outstanding food and friendly service.

The Greyhound Inn: A Local Gem

In 2015, the Greyhound Inn reopened as a free house after being lovingly restored by Catriona Galbraith and Martyn Reed. The Grade II-listed building, along with its idyllic garden, is perfect for al fresco dining.

“I feature heritage tomatoes in my summer menus, alongside peaches and cherries,” John explains. “The oven-roasted chicken breast with chicken fat mash, slow-cooked leek, and onion is one dish I’m especially proud of. It’s the first dish I cooked here, and over time, I’ve perfected it.”

Craft Ales and Seasonal Dishes

The Greyhound Inn also offers four rotating real ales, sourced from the UK’s finest breweries. With local favourites like Butts, Ramsbury, and Little Ox, as well as seasonal ales, there’s always something new to try. The pub has won a local CAMRA award for five consecutive years, a testament to its dedication to quality brews.

John’s Guilty Pleasures and Memorable Meals

John confesses, “My guilty pleasure? Henderson Sauce on everything! We even gave it as a party favour at our wedding.” When recalling his most memorable meal, John fondly remembers dining at Trinity in Clapham: “Adam Byatt’s restaurant is phenomenal. Like Marco and Gary, he makes food taste incredible with simplicity.”

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Sun, Laughter, and Magic: Laguna Bay at Giffords Circus

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Hats off to the Giffords Circus team for delivering a joyous celebration, with plenty of 1950s sass, with their 2025 summer show

Laguna Bay: Giffords Circus’ Joyful Seaside Spectacle

Laguna Bay is this year’s glittering, seaside-themed show from Giffords Circus. Set against the backdrop of a fictional 1950s Italian holiday resort, this performance has a retro charm that’s sure to leave you grinning like a Cheshire Cat.

A World of Fun & Laughter

Giffords Circus invites you into a whimsical world where the ordinary simply doesn’t exist. From the moment you step into the big top, you’ll be immersed in a performance full of laughter, awe, and a whole lot of heart. Laguna Bay blends vintage Riviera glamour with quirky British humour, creating a spectacular atmosphere of fun and escapism. It’s exactly what we need in these times!

A Show Full of Surprises

With Laguna Bay, you’re not just watching a show—you’re part of the performance. Giffords’ intimate and eccentric theatre style brings the audience close to the action, ensuring that every moment feels personal. The show’s direction by Cal McCrystal combines physical comedy, acrobatics, and live music into a seamless blend of unpredictable delight.

The Return of Tweedy the Clown

One of the most anticipated parts of Laguna Bay is the return of Tweedy the Clown. A beloved character, Tweedy is the show’s heart and soul. His impeccable comedic timing and rapport with the audience ensure that no one leaves without a smile. Tweedy’s physical comedy makes him a national treasure, adored by both children and adults.

Dazzling Acrobats & Aerialists

While Tweedy keeps the laughs rolling, the acrobats and aerialists will leave you breathless. Their performances seem to defy physics as they twist and turn high above. Horses bring elegance and power to the ring, adding even more layers to the breathtaking spectacle.

A Mediterranean Vibe & Stunning Costumes

The Mediterranean-inspired live band provides a vibrant soundtrack that adds depth to the circus magic. And the costumes—candy-striped swimwear, vintage parasols, and sun-bleached pastels—bring a golden-age beach resort feel that immerses you completely in the performance. You’ll want to join in the fun and grab a vintage swimsuit from the dressing-up box!

Fun for Everyone

Laguna Bay has something for all ages. The humour is multi-layered, so both kids and grown-ups enjoy it equally. The slower, dreamlike moments draw you in, while the fast-paced stunts keep you on the edge of your seat. Giffords Circus is known for its focus on community and craftsmanship. You can feel the love and dedication from every performer.

A Joyous Celebration

By the end of the show, my face ached from smiling—Laguna Bay is pure joy. It’s a celebration of silliness, shared human wonder, and a much-needed reminder of the magic in life.

Catch Laguna Bay in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire between now and 28th September.

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Amersham Hospital’s Wildflower Meadow: A Hidden Oasis of Orchids

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Janey Wall praises Wild Amersham’s efforts at Amersham Hospital, including orchids!

Orchids are quietly blooming in the grounds of Amersham Hospital. They’ve sprung up on what was, until two years ago, tended lawn.

Now, thanks to Wild Amersham, the hospital is restoring native wildflower meadows on sloped areas. The move has triggered an explosion of species, some familiar, others arcane, many with fascinating folkloric associations. Bee orchids are the star attraction, named after their stunning bee-like velvety pattern, designed to lure in males to try to mate and pollinate the flower. Inches away: a pyramidal orchid. How did they get there, you may ask. As volunteer Marieke Bosman explained on a wildflower walk, the orchids’ seeds are tiny and can be carried far by wind. No human hand was involved; the orchids self-seeded.

The Chilterns’ chalky ground is also key. Described as the “rainforest of Europe”, lowland chalk grassland – if left untouched – is one of the continent’s most diverse plant communities, hosting up to 40 species per square metre. A botanist last year counted 140 species across the new patches of wildflower meadow at Amersham Hospital.

The most prolific species this year is the oxeye daisy, which is flourishing waist-high on a slope near the hospital’s new heat pump. Other species include the delicate harebell, clover and aromatic wild strawberries. There’s the curiously named ribwort plantain (not related to bananas), ploughman’s spikenard and cut-leaved cranesbill. 

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