Soumya Dinesh’s best bits of Bucks!

Liz Nicholls

Stokenchurch

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 cafĂ© 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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PYO pumpkin patch returns to Bucks

Liz Nicholls

Stokenchurch

The Pop-up Pumpkin Patch has popped up again in Stokenchurch HP14 3YF, for its third year, 23rd-31st October. Brooke White tells us more!

October sees the welcome return of the Pop-up Pumpkin Patch, the brainchild of Brooke and her husband Tom, a second generation farmer who has always farmed in and around the Chilterns.

Brooke says: “Usually rearing cows and sheep, we first started diversifying the farm and growing pumpkins in 2022 after a random ‘image if’ conversation over dinner one evening. That conversation turned into reality the following October!

“We love opening up the farm and giving people the opportunity to have fun with their families while picking their pumpkins from the field in which they were grown.

“With three young children, George, Mollie & Harry we are always looking for activities that we can enjoy as a family without spending a fortune at the same time! Entry to the patch is free and there’s lots for the little (and big!) ones to keep them entertained. Climb to the top of our straw bale mountain, play on a ride on tractor, spot the spooky clues with our Scavenger hunt, enjoy a tractor and trailer ride around the field, take some Insta-worthy photos and get lost in the maize maze!”

Ibstone C of E Primary School will also run a pop-up café serving hot drinks and cakes, raising funds for the PTA. Entry to the patch is free, parking is free. Simply pay for what you pick. Pumpkin prices start from £2.

Brooke adds: “We donate 100% of our cafĂ© and Scavenger hunt takings to Ibstone C of E Primary School, so you can enjoy a coffee and slice of cake whilst raising money for charity. We can’t wait to welcome you to the farm!”

The patch will be open 23rd-31st October, 11am-3pm. Find more info on Instagram or find The Pop-up Pumpkin Patch on Facebook.


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