Tonight's IndieGo Night at The Two Brewers is for a special cause

Free music night is fundraising for Toby's Trust

IndieGo Nights is raising funds for 18-month-old Toby. 

Our next IndieGo Night at The Two Brewers on Thursday 11th June will be a special fundraising night for an incredible 18-month-old boy called Toby O’Grady. 

Toby has a rare condition called Dravet Syndrome, which means he has dozens of epileptic seizures every day, from little twitches through to prolonged seizures that can last over an hour. As a result, Toby requires powerful rescue medication and frequently has ambulances at the family home. He regularly stops breathing during the seizures and requires resuscitation. It also means that Toby’s development as a young boy has started to slow down and will decline in the near future, and the seizure control will always be an issue.

My wife and I have four children of our own and when we read Toby’s story it brought tears to our eyes. Now I’m lucky enough to be in a position where I can call on my band and some brilliant artistic friends to come along for a night and donate their time for free at our IndieGo Nights, so I called a few. Not only will they come along, but these wonderful people have offered (free of charge) some beautiful pieces of their work for auction on the night. On top of this, my band will also auction a house gig, so if you have a party coming up then we’ll come along and play at your home, either acoustic in your front room or plugged in if you have a larger room. 

The Two Brewers will be auctioning a special meal for two, and there will be plenty of other  auctions on the night. I’m sure all the artists that I haven’t yet spoke with will also want to donate something and, of course, all the proceeds will go to Toby’s Trust.

If you’re an artist or entertainer, then please email me if you would like to get involved, but we’d love for all the good people of Olney and further afield to pop along for the night, even if it’s just for a short while, to show your support for this wonderful family and this beautiful little boy who needs our help.

It will be a great free night out, and we want to do all we can to help. Please have a look at the Toby’s Trust website, tobystrust.org, for more information. I’d like to give a big thank you to Phonebox magazine too for all their support of the IndieGo nights. 

Anyone who wants to get involved or for more information please email me at ian@ianrobertsmusic.org. For more information about the night, go totwobrewersolney.co.uk or ianrobertsmusic.org.

IAN ROBERTS

Top events this weekend in Milton Keynes

Friday 17th:

Milton Keynes through the lens @ The Parish church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Olney, 7-9pm
Milton Keynes through the lens, presented by Living Archive MK in connection with Independent Cinema MK, shows a collection of documentary films made over the last 70 years, as well as a short Olney heritage film. The films will be introduced by Roger Kitchen and will last approximately 2 hours. Tickets cost £4.

Newport Pagnell Farmers Market @ Newport Pagnell High Street, 8.30am-1.30pm
Held on the third Friday of every month. Get some fresh food from the farmers market this weekend!

Darling digits @ Frosts garden centre, 10am-2pm
'Little prints' allows you to make a hand or foot plaster cast of your child's hand or foot, to have as a keepsake and remember how small they once were! The casts can also be painted before being taken home to display. Tickets cost £9.99 per child and are available by clicking here.

Wine tasting evening @ The Two Brewers, High Street, Olney, 7pm
Introducing a new wine list. Booked tables only.

Crafts, art and gift exhibition @ Middleton Hall, Centre:mk, All day Friday-Sunday
Springtime creation is an annual event which presents some of the best in the world of arts and crafts. There will be something for everyone, from cakes to sculptures, sewing to fudge and much much more. It's a great place to come and browse, or to find a really unique gift for a friend or family member. Entry is free.

Saturday 18th:

Spring Sale @ St. Margaret's Church, Denton, 11am-3pm
There will be a wide selection of previously loved items such as books, toys, games, dvds, cakes, cards, potted plants and more. There will be a raffle, and refreshments will also be available, with homemade soup and fresh bread.

50/50 auction @ Yardley Hastings Memorial Hall, 2pm
Goods will be accepted from 8.30am-1pm and viewing will be from 1-2pm. Proceeds will go to village funds.

Clothes swap evening @ Lavendon Village Hall, 7pm
Ladies and children's clothes swap evening. Come along for a fun evening, and enjoy a pudding and first glass of wine included in the ticket price. Tickets cost £10.

Museum spring quiz @ The Olney Centre, 7.30-10pm
The Cowper and Newton museum hold a quiz evening with buffet. Hosted by the regular quiz-masters, Neil and Pat Hodges. Buffet will be provided but please bring your own drink and a glass. There will also be a raffle.

Meet Alan Titchmarsh @ Frosts Garden Centre, 11am-4pm
Famous garden writer and television presenter, Alan Titchmarsh, will be at Frosts garden centre this weekend, in celebration of National gardening week. He will be doing gardening talks, a book signing and a meet and greet for fans. There will be two 40 minute talks which cost £5 to attend, one at 11am and the other at 3pm.  The 11am talk will be entitled 'Gardening for wildlife', and the 3pm talk will be entitled 'Small garden secrets'. Each will be followed by a Q&A session. All money raised from the tickets will go to the local charity, Supershoes, which aims to bring hope and a smile to seriously ill and disabled children.


Home composting workshop @ The Hanson Centre, Wolverton Road, Great Linford, 10am-12pm and 2-4pm.
If you're new to home composting or want to learn more about it, come along to the free workshop this weekend and find out more about disposing of fruit and vegetable waste. This is a free event, booking is essential and you can book by clicking here.

1940's Boutique @ Bletchley Park, 9.30am
Enjoy a day of 1940's glamour, and learn to style your own hair and makeup to achieve that iconic 1940's look. Create a fresh and versatile spring-time do. You will learn how to create some iconic styles, such as the famous victory rolls, and makeup to match. The day includes demonstrations, practical sessions, food and refreshments and time to enjoy Bletchley Park. Tickets are £70 per person and must be booked in advance, click here for more information.

Sunday 19th:

Sing-along Frozen @ MK Theatre, 11am, 3pm and 6.30pm

If you love the movie Frozen, it's a great opportunity to join in the experience at MK Theatre this weekend. Come dressed as your favourite Frozen character, and sing along with the lyrics on screen. There will be a live host who will show you how to use your interactive fun pack and judge the fancy dress competition. Tickets are available here.

Orienteering @ Shenley Wood, Milton Keynes, 10am-1pm

Learn how to use a map while having fun out in the parks. Run by South Midlands Orienteering club. Open to beginners, more experienced orienteers and runners alike. No need to pre-register, just turn up on the day. There are a selection of courses available to suit all needs, from a 2.5k amble to a 7k run. A great opportunity to try something different and enjoy the outdoors at the same time. Parking is available in the public car park on Merlewood Drive, Tattenhoe Street. Entry costs £5. 

Bletchley Park Presents: Victor Madeira @ Bletchley Park, 2-3pm

Victor Madeira talks about his book: 'Britannia and the Bear- The Anglo-Russion intelligence wars, 1917-1929.' Victor is a lecturer in National security and intelligence studies at the University of Buckingham, and has 15 years experience in international security affairs. The talk will be followed by a question and answer session, and then tea and cake will be served, followed by a book signing. Guests can explore Bletchley Park's exhibitions from 9.30am. Tickets cost £25, or £20 for season ticket holders. 

What to do this weekend...

All weekend: 

Lifestyle: Interiors and Exteriors show @ Middleton hall, the centre:mk, Thursday-Sunday
Come along and find out how you can update and upgrade your home without breaking the bank. Enjoy a range of stalls with ideas and products to help you transform your home. From designer bathrooms, to state-of-the-art kitchens, handmade furniture and more, don't miss it this weekend in the centre:mk.

Eco Event @ intu Milton Keynes, Saturday-Sunday
It's Eco weekend, have you got any clothes you want to learn how to upcycle? Come and join Milton Keynes College Fashion and Textiles students in the centre, who will be showing you how to turn your unwanted denim clothing into style masterpieces.

Friday 27th March:

Bingo @ Lavendon Village Hall 7pm for 7.30pm start
Tickets cost £1, there will also be a raffle and refreshments.

The Carlton House Club Presents: Race Night @ The Carlton House Club, 7.30pm start
A night in aid of the Olney-Newton link, an opportunity to have a great night out while raising money for a great cause. Tickets cost just £8 per person and includes a sausage and chips dinner. A bar will also be available. Tickets are available from the Phonebox Magazine office at Stanley Court, Olney. Don't miss out on a great night.

Saturday 28th March:

Charity Pamper fair @ Wavendon Gate Pavillion 11am-3pm
Charity Pamper fair in aid of The Henry Allen Trust with a selection of craft sellers and beauty treatments available. Feel relaxed and pampered by one of the therapists, with Indian Head Massage, mini manicures, brows, nails, mini facials and more. Treat yourself and indulge in some retail therapy, all from local craft companies, with products such as scarves, jewellery, soaps and cosmetics and other handmade products. There will also be refreshments available in the vintage pop up tea shop, and a raffle with great prizes and all proceeds going to The Henry Allen Trust.

Nathan Grisdale @ Crauford Arms, Wolverton, 12.30pm start 
Nathan Grisdale comes to Milton Keynes as part of his UK tour. Suitable for ages 14 and over, under 14s allowed when accompanied by an adult. VIP tickets are also available to meet Nathan, have photos and get a front-line spot for the show. Nathan is a solo artist but will be performing with a full band. There will also be two support acts, Hester & Holly Rose, and Mr Meanor. Click here for tickets.

BRTA Forum @ The Two Brewers Cabin Room, Olney, from 1pm.

Bozeat British Legion Buffet Dance @ Bozeat Church Hall. 7.30pm-Midnight
Lots of dancing to Bob Watts, raffle and bar will be available on the night. Tickets cost £9.

Charity Night @ Bletchley Working Mens Club, 7.30pm-Midnight
Music from Sahara C, Michelle Nova and Indifference, raising money for Deaf England Rugby. Admission is £5.

Stony BreakDown 3 @ York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford, 8-11pm
The banjos are back in town for the third Stony BreakDown, with fiddles, guitars, basses and more. Enjoy the wild and wonderful music of the Bluegrass State, and of North Carolina, Arkansas and West Virginia. Entry is £5.

Sunday 29th March:

Wedding Open Day @ Mercure Parkside House, Newport Road, Woughton on the Green, 12-4pm
If you're planning a wedding, come along to this open day to view the House as your potential wedding location, and for some inspiration. Enjoy a glass of Buck's Fizz and canapés on arrival and have the chance to view the newly refurbished bedrooms and the Orchard Suite, which will be set up for a wedding. Also the opportunity to meet dedicated wedding planners, recommended suppliers and also enjoy a fashion show.

Paul Carrack @ MK Theatre, starts at 7.30pm
Enjoy a show from Paul Carrack following his new album, Rain or Shine. Paul was originally in a number of bands, before becoming a solo artist in 2004. He is a unique British talent and is an artist who is at the top of his game. Tickets cost £32.40 and are available to buy by clicking here.

This weekend: What's on

Bad Manners and The Bighead @ Bedford Corn Exchange. Friday 20th Feb. 7.30pm

Bad Manners return to the Bedford Corn exchange with a night of full on Ska antics. Bad Manners were at their peak in the late 1970s and 80s, with 111 weeks spent in the UK Singles Chart between 1980 and 1983. Their outlandish frontman, Buster Bloodvessel was one of the main reasons for their notoriety, getting them banned from Top of The Pops among others. The show is sure to be entertaining, and tickets cost £20.

Stunt Fest @ Santa Pod Raceway. Saturday 21st Feb, 10.30-4.30pm

Come along to enjoy an afternoon of great stunts for all the family, featuring some of the top UK stunts and riders. Gates open at 10.30am, with the main stunt attractions from 12.30pm. There are a variety of attractions to keep you entertained, including Monster truck, motorcycle freestyle stunt riders, drift rides, car football and much more. As well as all of the driving entertainment, there will also be funfair rides, kids entertainment including face painting, and a full bar and catering facilities. Tickets are available on the door at £15 for the day or £25 to camp overnight. Watch a video from last year's event below!

Cock and Bull Real Beer Festival @ Stony Stratford. Friday 20th-Saturday 21st Feb, 12-11pm 

This year is the 13th beer festival at York House in Stony Stratford, with an array of real beers and ciders, mostly from local breweries. There will also be a selection of Fairtrade wines, juices and snacks. Gourmet burgers and sausages will be available on both Friday and Saturday evening from Devine Catering, and the mighty Kobold will be providing musical entertainment on Saturday evening from around 8.30pm. Free entry.

Digitalis Day of 3D Printing @ Kingston Library. Saturday 21st Feb, 11am-4pm

This is set to be a fascinating day of learning about this new technology and seeing first-hand how it works. Create ideas in digital space and see how they are brought into the real world. Tickets are £5 in advance, and places are limited so do book your place by calling 01908 282720.

Annual 80/20 Lavendon Village Charity Auction @ Lavendon Village Hall. Sunday 22nd Feb, 12.30pm

A sale of furniture and effects. Viewing is from 10am and the auction begins at 12.30pm. Please contact Pam or Ron if you have anything to sell, on 01234 240772. Refreshments will be available.  

If you know of any other events going on in the Milton keynes area, please do share them with us! 

Half Term Fun for the Family

Whether it's been a long term or you can't quite believe it's half term already, you'll be due a break. The run from Christmas can be quite a slow one, and with the cold weather and dark days, it can feel quite draining. The same goes for the kids; it's been a long slog at school and they're ready for a holiday. That can can often mean the parents don't end up getting much of a break, so we've collected a few ideas of how to keep the kids (and adults!) entertained this half term.

Visit Bletchley Park For FREE tomorrow!

Residents of Milton Keynes can take advantage of the history right on their doorstep this Saturday, with free entry to Bletchley Park. Bletchley Park Community Day is a chance for Milton Keynes residents to explore their local heritage, and find out more about the history of Bletchley Park. Visitors can come and experience what it was like for the Codebreakers of WW2, exploring the restored wartime buildings and exhibitions. For those who have seen the film 'The Imitation Game' there's even more reason to visit, as there's also the official exhibition of the film, where you can find out more as well as see where some of the film was shot. There will also be family-friendly workshops to get involved in.

To get in for free you need to have a Milton Keynes postcode, and bring proof of residency, such as a utility bill or other proof of address. Open from 9.30am-4pm, last admission is at 3pm.

The weekend's events:

Friday and Saturday: 

MK Job Show @ Middleton Hall - FREE

If you're looking for a job, thinking about changing career or want help with your CV, the MK job show is hosting a great selection of employment and training opportunities from some of the most respected International, National, Regional and local employers. There will also be workshops and seminars, making this an event not to be missed if you're interested in improving your job opportunities.

Saturday 24th: 

Olney Rugby Football Club WW1 Commemorative Charity Match @ Olney Rugby Football Club, West Street Olney

In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of WW1, Olney RFC are commemorating the sacrifices of many members of Olney RFC during the Great War. From 12 noon into the evening, a selection of events including a welcome from the Chairman, drummers, a minute's silence, Olney ladies v British Army and Olney v. the 1st Btn the Yorkshire Regiment RFC, guest lunch, speeches and then a hog roast and disco in the evening to finish off the day.

Talk: Our Changing Wildlife @ Howe Park Wood, 2-3pm

Come and enjoy a talk about how the wildlife is changing, exploring which British species are decreasing and increasing, and why. For over 16's, meet at Howe Park Wood education centre. Tickets cost £2 per person.

T'Pau: Pleasure & Pain Tour @ The Stables MK

T'Pau is a hugely successful pop/rock band fronted by Carol Decker. Most famous for their tracks: 'Heart & Soul' and 'China in your hand', T'Pau celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2013 with a successful UK tour. Back again, they will be at the Stables MK starting at 8pm this Saturday. Tickets cost £21.50 each.

Sunday 25th: 

Complete History of Comedy @ Stantonbury Theatre 

The Reduced Shakespeare Company presents comedy through the ages, from Aristophanes to Shakespeare and Moliere, Nick Clegg to Charlie Chaplin. 90 minutes of rolling comedy should have you laughing in the audacious and outrageous bawdy show. Tickets cost £17.50, concessions are £16.

Gym from home for free

It seems to be the time of year for fitness kicks, whether that's due to the idea of New Year's resolutions or following having had a bit too much to eat over the Christmas break, there's a bit of a general idea of January as being the time to start getting fit and healthy. Gyms everywhere seem to be advertising membership deals, and healthy foods, and recipes are taking prime position on the shelves (along with all that reduced chocolate!).

If you were aiming to start the year with a bit of a fitness kick but can't quite afford a gym membership, or aren't sure if you'll use it, why not create your own home gym? A great way to trial whether you'll keep up the dedication to fitness, or maybe to work out that a gym membership is what you need to get you motivated, exercising from home can be a great way of saving money, and time.

We've come up with a few top-tips to get you motivated and exercising from home...

• Grab a mat- Exercise mats are pretty cheap to come by, or you could use a towel if you find yourself without. There are a whole range of floor work exercises you can do on a mat, from sit-ups to planks, leg-lifts and crunches, there are hundreds of workout plans online which can provide some great exercise workouts and routines.
• Slightly more active, are the burpees and star jumps. Include them into a workout with some floor work, and get the heart rate rising. Repetition of these sorts of exercises is the way to ensure you get a great workout.
• If you're wanting to include a bit of light weights into the workout, to tone rather than build muscle, grab a couple of cans from the larder and do some bicep curls with them. They should start off feeling pretty light and gradually get heavier the more you use them.
• If you have stairs in your house, set yourself a target number and do some step-ups, either by stepping on and off the bottom step, or walking all the way up and down the staircase. Make your body work harder by adding a bit of weight, by holding carrier bags or again cans of food for a lighter, more subtle weight. Walking up and down the stairs can burn over 500 calories an hour, and the more effort you put in, the greater the outcome will be.
• For a more subtle workout that you won't notice so much, turn up the music and get moving. Dancing around the house at your own pace will burn calories, and as long as you're moving and get get your heart rate raised, it's exercise. 
• Don't panic if you don't think you've got time to exercise, as did you know that housework burns a fair few calories? Not only can you exercise and burn the calories, but you'll also be getting the house clean at the same time. The more effort you put in, the greater the benefit, and it won't only be your body that benefits, but your house too! Hoovering burns over 190 calories per hour, as does mopping floors. If you're after a bit of fresh air as well, then gardening is also a great calorie burner, around 290 calories per hour.
• If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, or just don't have much space in the house, then going for a run, jog or even a brisk walk can get you on the right path to fitness, while enjoying some fresh air too.

Paraffinalia @ Campbell Park, Milton Keynes

This Saturday there's a great free event being held in Campbell Park, Milton Keynes. 'Paraffinalia' is a midwinter Fire Festival celebrating the darkest of days with fire spectacles, processional lanterns and pyrotechnic effects and live performances.

The night kicks off at 7pm, with some amazing walking characters in the Open Air Theatre area who will guide audiences through to the happenings beyond. There will be a parade of lanterns and illuminated structures which will join the celebrations from across the park. People will have the chance to interact with installations and performances, and there will be refreshments including hot food and drinks available. The main event is a 20 minute show, featuring fire performers, traditional re-enactment and live music from 'the Kettle Band'. There will be opportunities to take part in music workshops, led by musician Tim Hill from the fittingly named 'Tongues of Fire.'

This is a free event which is suitable for all ages. Parking on the Campbell Park Events Plateau is limited, otherwise parking at the centre:mk (John Lewis end) or Xscape is recommended.

Visit the Facebook Event Page for more information.

Dickens of a Christmas- 1 week today!

One of the events which the town of Olney is most famous for is here again! Dickens of a Christmas is an annual event where a taste of Victorian England comes to Olney. Thousands of people come to the event each year, to enjoy a festive day in Olney with something for all the family.

This year's Dickens of a Christmas takes place next Sunday, the 7th December, from 10am-4pm.

There'll be the traditional market on the Market Place, and a Farmers market at Yardley Road. As always, there will be a number of craft fayres, at the Bull Inn, Carlton House Club, Olney Centre and Church Hall.

People will be dressed in outfits from the period, to really make you feel like you've been transported back in time. There will be a variety of entertainment throughout the day, from the brass band, choirs, Punch and Judy at the museum and more.

Santa's grotto is another main attraction of the day, as well as a traditional fair in Silver End. The reindeers will be back at fountain court following their appearance last year, where you can stroke and even feed them.

Parking will be available at Emberton park with a park and ride bus to take you to the main event.

Dickens of a Christmas is a great day out, and is a great opportunity to do a bit of Christmas shopping from the stalls of unique merchandise as well as support a number of local charities. Come and experience Victorian England at Christmas!

Weekend what's on Listings...

As always there's a weekend filled with activities and various things to do coming up, why not visit one of these events with family or friends this weekend?

Macmillan Coffee morning, run by Jane Smith financial planning. Come along between 9.30am and 12.30pm to 7 Osier Way, Olney for cake, coffee, entertainment and shopping from a range of local shops and businesses.

Ampthill Fireworks- Possibly one of the last local fireworks events of the year, the Ampthill display features a pre-show of live acts, fairground and various food outlets, with the lighting of the Ampthill beacon at 7.30m and fireworks starting at 8pm.

'The Pad Presents' Heaven 17 and Blancmange at Bedford Corn Exchange. Kicking off at 7.30pm, it's a show featuring two of the UK's most original experimental synthesiser bands. Tickets cost £22.50.

Olney Senior Citizens Club run every Friday, this week it's a night of whist.

Bedford Art Society- featuring John Somerscales. 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. John Somerscales has been involved in the visual arts his entire working life. He has staged exhibitions, exhibited at the Mall gallery in London and has published articles in Paint and The Artist magazines. He will be at the art society in order to talk about composition, and demonstrate watercolour landscape painting. Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors.

The Bedford branch of the Royal Anglian Regiment Association meets on the first Friday of the month at The Keep, Bedford Road, Kempston. The bar opens at 7.30pm and meetings begin at 8pm. Ex Servicemen/women from any arm are invited to join.

Coffee morning and bric-a-brac table top sale at Olney United Reformed Church. From 10am-1pm.

Cliff Richard tribute pub night, at Westbury Grange, Newport Pagnell. Come along from 7.30pm to enjoy an excellent evening's entertainment at a modest cost (only £6) As well as the tribute act there will be a raffle and nibbles, and the bar will be open for drinks.

HULA animal rescue- Winter warmer at Glebe farm, Aspley Guise. Open form 1-3.30pm, there will be a wide variety of events, including dog parade, children's workshops, bazaar, book sale, Christmas goodies and more. Refreshments will be available in 'the Trough' cafe. Dogs are welcome. Admission is £2 for adults, £1 for children.

Bletchley Park Presents- Remembrance Parade. Held by the Royal British Legion from 9am-11.20am. Starting from Bletchley Park and ending at the Bletchley cenotaph, the Parade will be followed by a service in St Mary's Church, all are welcome to attend.

Plus local remembrance services and parades at your local church or war memorial.

The Club at Hanslope- Beer Festival.  A number of beers and ciders from local breweries, 12 real ales and 3 ciders. Free admission all weekend.
Friday- 6pm-11pm, chip van from 9.30pm
Saturday 12 noon-11pm, International rugby England vs New Zealand at 2.30pm
Sunday 12 noon-11pm, Brazilian Grand Prix at 4pm, Quiz at 7pm.
Sky and BT Sports available all day, games and competitions including skittles, darts and wheel of fortune.

IndieGo Oak

Tonight sees the start of a monthly Music and Arts night to showcase local talents, held at the Cowpers Oak in Weston Underwood. Local singer/songwriter Ian Roberts has linked up with Tim from the Cowpers Oak to host 'IndieGo Oak'. It's set to be a great evening of entertainment from a variety of local artists, from musicians to painters, from poets to comedians.

Ian Roberts will kick off the night at 8pm with a selection of his songs, and will then open up the floor to other local performers for the rest of the night.

'Everyone involved with IndieGo Oak is delighted that The Phonebox Magazine has come on board to sponsor us,' Ian explains, 'The Phonebox Magazine has been the leading voice for our local area for many years and we feel sure that will continue. Together we will promote, showcase and give a wonderful platform for all our local musicians and artists.'

It's a free event, and in the great location of the Cowpers Oak there will be a great selection of drinks on offer to enjoy while you sit back and enjoy an evening of entertainment. There will be a warm and friendly environment with acoustic sets from a variety of performers, it's definitely not one to be missed. We look forward to seeing you tonight!

For more information, visit the Facebook event page.

This Weekend in and around Milton Keynes

Tonight 16th Oct: 

The Pad presents: Chas and Dave & The Ouse Valley Singles Club @ Bedford Corn Exchange, ST Paul's Square, Bedford. 7.30pm
Following on from the release of their brand new album 'That's what happens' on Warner Brothers Records, which entered the top 20 in it's first week and saw the duo Headline at the Royal Variety Show 2013, Chas and Dave are now on their 'on the road' tour. Chas and Dave began writing music and performing together in 1972, and have now recorded their first original album in 27 years- a mixture of vintage rock and roll songs and new renditions of their own classics. Due to public demand, they are now to be seen performing together on the stage again. Support comes from The Ouse Valley Singles Club. For more information visit www.thepadpresents.com

Tomorrow 17th Oct:

Barn Dance and concert- Singing for all with Cut a Caper @ The Carlton Club in Olney. 7.30pm

The night is raising money for 'Family Futures' for their 'Families in Crisis Fund'. Tickets are available in Wilson's, 84 High Street Olney and from choir members. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children, to include a ploughman's supper. 

Gary Beckwith @ The Newport Pagnell Football Club. 8pm- late

Tickets cost £5.

Saturday 18th Oct:

Pink Party Disco for charity @ The Crown, Stoney Stratford. 7pm- midnight 

The pink party is being held to raise funds and awareness for the breast cancer unit at Milton Keynes hospital. Get your best pink party outfit on, you don't have to dress in pink but you'll have the chance of winning a prize for best dressed if you do. There'll be pink drinks, nibbles and cakes available to satisfy your thirst and hunger, as you dance the night away. Pink balloons and decorations will bring the room alive, and there will be various fundraising activities including a silent raffle. The evening is open to all over 18s, male and female, and entry is priced at £4 with all proceeds going straight to the cancer unit.     

Sunday 19th Oct:

Bletchley Park Presents Gary Ayton @ Bletchley Park. 
Gary Ayton is a Curator at the crime museum, which may not sound like much unless you know that it was once called the Black Museum... He has 30 years experience in the investigation of major crime and homicide and is a qualified trainer at the world-renowned Crime Academy. This event is now sold out but if you have managed to get tickets, it's set to be a great event.

Great Linford Apple Day @ Community Orchard, Loriner Place, Downs Barn, Milton Keynes. 12-3pm
Apple day is a chance to celebrate the apple and other traditional orchard fruits with apple pressing, bouncy castle, herb garden, games for the children and an apple product competition. Bring your apples to press into juice. A free event for all the family.

Row row row your boat- What's on this Weekend?

As well as the events on through part of the MK Heritage Open days today, there are also a number of other events on this weekend...

Saturday

The Olney model railway club exhibition will be held at the Carlton house Club in Olney from 10.30am-4.30pm. Come along to see layouts, trade support, society stands and refreshments. Adults cost £2.50 and a family of four is £6.  Visit the website for more information.

The Milton Keynes Regatta also takes place today, consisting of two lane racing over a 500 meter course, with a variety of events in all categories including rowing, sculling, junior, senior and masters events. Racing will begin at 8.30am until 5pm, so do come along and cheer the rowers on at the rowing club on Caldecotte lake.

In the evening, come along to St Laud's Church in Sherington at 7.30pm to hear 'Ed and friends' play a light and varied programme of instrumental and vocal music. Tickets are £8 and are available on the door or from John and Pam Fielding. The concert is being held in aid of Prostate Cancer UK and St Laud's Church.

Sunday

HULA have another of their popular fete and dog show's today, including a variety of activities such as dog classes for all, doggie games and a fun photo competition (bring your pet photos). There will be assorted stalls, fun and games for children, bazaar and book stall and delicious refreshments, and the opportunity to come and meet the resident farm animals. Admission is £2 for adults and £1 for children, with all proceeds going to the care and welfare of HULA's animals. visit the website for more information.

Part of the Milton Keynes Heritage Weekend includes the medieval family fun day at Milton Keynes discovery centre, Bradwell Abbey, from 11am-4pm. The day will include a variety of hands-on activities, such as archery, birds of prey, medieval re-enactors and encampment, face painting, arts and crafts and more. There will be a great selection of refreshments, including hog roast, tea/coffee and cakes.

Visit the Cowpers Oak Country Pub and dining room from 4pm to enjoy 'last of the summer tapas'- enjoy some tapas and sangria as we say goodbye to summer!

Explore the heritage of Milton Keynes this weekend

Starting today, there's a whole weekend of free family fun in and around Milton Keynes as part of the MK Heritage Open Days, which celebrates its 20th year this year. Milton Keynes is home to a lot of history, and there is much to be learnt and discovered from this central place. Have a look at the website for a full list of what's on, there are numerous open days, tours and events, and we've included just a small selection below...

There have been a few events on today so you may have spotted a few, if not then don't worry you've got a few days left and there are some events on this evening for you to enjoy if you have the time.
This evening there is a talk from Kevin Varty; 'The Great War in 10 Objects' held at Milton Keynes Library from 6-7pm. There's also an evening ramble held at Ouzel Valley Park which costs just £1 or is free if you have the MK Heritage Open Days leaflet. Enjoy a tour with the Parks Trust rangers from 6-7pm.

Friday

Again, there are a great number of free events to choose from, including a number of walks, such as a heritage hunters walk around Willen lake, a railway walk and Stoney Stratford town and riverside walk to name just a few.

The Milton Keynes Museum will be holding open days, which today will include their annual beer festival, from 11am-4.30pm with a selection of real ales and cider and a BBQ. Check this out on any day of the open weekend.

There's also the beer and cider festival at the York House Centre with the 12th Cock and Bull real beer and cider festival from midday to 11pm, again it will be continuing over the weekend.

This evening, head over to Milton Keynes gallery for an hour long film titled 'Milton Keynes through the lens', showing images from the 1940s through to the present day. 7.30-9pm.

Don't forget to check the website for the full list of events.

Saturday

A number of the events will follow through from yesterday, but again there is a great selection of free things to do and see.

Bark in the Park, organised by the Parks Trust, is on from 10-11.30am at Tattenhoe Valley and is a chance to walk your dog while meeting other dog owners. Free with the presentation of the Milton Keynes Heritage Leaflet.

Have a look at the Bradwell Windmill at their open day, where you can see the early 1800s windmill restored to working order between 1.30-4.30pm.

Sunday

There's much of the same at the previous days today, so if you've missed something you liked the look of then make the most of the last day of the event today, as well as a few other items, including the exhibition at Double Tree Hilton Hotel celebrating the history of women's football from 7.30am-10.30pm, and a guided walk around the Homeworld '81 exhibition at 11am showing how the buildings have faded over the last 30 years.

There's a great variety of events and activities taking place over these 4 days of the Heritage Open Days, so you've got plenty of opportunities to get involved in something over the weekend.

Download the pdf brochure here.

Rock with BOFF

The highly anticipated Rock with BOFF is now halfway through the heats, looking for the best local talent to be involved in the Big Olney Food Festival next year. It's been an exciting event so far, and there are more heats tomorrow, followed by the 10th and 17th August, with semi-finals on the 25th August and the finals being held at this year's Big Olney Food Festival on the 7th September.

The competition is fierce, with the exciting prize of four hours recording time at Eastwood studios, which will then be mastered and polished by Neume and the recorded song will be aired on Secklow Sounds radio station. Not forgetting they will also get a paid spot at the Big Olney Food Festival 2015.

The acts which have got through the heats so far include: George Baines, The Imprint, Ali in the Jungle, George and the Giant Peach, Judecca Nights, Tess and the Durbervilles, George Smith, Jordan, George and his buddies, Lana, Siobhan and the Dysfunctional Duo... We're excited to see so much local talent getting involved, and can't wait to see who else qualifies and ultimately who comes out the winner at the final- watch this space!

Head on over to the Two Brewers in Olney at 8pm on the 3rd, 10th and 17th of August to see the next qualifying heats, and then again at the Two Brewers on Monday 25th for the semi-finals; you're sure to be well-entertained!

Art in the Park

'Art in the park' is FREE family event happening this weekend in Campbell Park, Milton Keynes. It's organised by Islamic Arts, Heritage and Culture Milton Keynes, and is a cultural event celebrating the festival of Eid. The event aims to help build bridges between diverse communities through arts and culture, and there'll be a great deal going on for all the family to get involved with.

Events across the weekend run along a variety of artistic themes, including the 'art of integration' and the 'art of food', as well as workshops and much more. There will be a fairground, and exciting live music from a variety of bands including: Rhythmnreel and Bollywood brass to name just two. There will be an exciting 'digital wall' which will provide live interaction with exciting artists from around the globe. 'Arts of Food' will include some mouth-watering food demonstrations from TV chef Cyrus Todiwala OBE and a team of talented chefs.

Ultimately, this event aims to promote art and culture through education, encouraging more people to take an active interest and learn more about the cultures around them. Islamic art is filled with unusual geometry, pattern and colour, and this event gives all an opportunity to discover and find out more about the art.

Art in the Park is set to be a great couple of days, and is open Saturday 2nd August from 1pm until 7pm, and Sunday 3rd 1pm until 6pm, don't miss out!

(Please note: there is no public parking in Campbell park, the nearest car parks are at Centre:MK or theatre multi-storey; SatNav postcode for that is MK9 3NZ.)

Au revoir MKIF 2014!

Today brings us to the end of the Milton Keynes International Festival, and what a great 10 days it has been! We hope you were able to get along to one of the many events that have been on offer throughout the festival, and made the most of the great weather we've had for it!

One of the highlights for many was the 'Iltopie: Fous de Bassin' (water fools), where Willen Lake was lit up with fire and taken over by people and vehicles walking across the water. There was a bit of confusion with seating, it turned out you didn't really need a ticket to see the show, and yet some who had bought tickets ended up sitting where they could hardly see. Despite that, and the thunderstorms which took place during the shows (adding to the effects!), it was a great event, something unusual and definitely not something you see everyday- showing a good example of what the international festival has been about. It was an interesting show, especially when the car caught fire and people were voicing questions of whether it was meant to happen or not! (don't worry, it was!)

This was just one of the many events which was part of the festival, and there were lots of other amazing events and activities taking place. Gigs in the Spiegeltent have been sold out for much of the festival, and the Architects of Air's Pentalum in Middleton Hall has been popular throughout, drawing large crowds to both visit and enjoy music and classes within the luminarium. The lock shift songs is another of the more bizarre parts to the festival (although it's all a bit quirky really!) and has also been particularly popular with shoppers in centre:mk. If you haven't managed to pay it a visit, it's there today as well so do pop by if you are in the centre! Have a look at the official website to what what else is still on today if you fancy getting involved for the last few hours of the festival!

We hope you enjoyed this year's International Festival, we at the Phonebox Magazine certainly did and we can't wait to see what will be in store for next year!

'World Picnic'- Come and enjoy international music, dance and food!

Milton Keynes World Picnic 2014 is an open-air festival celebrating music, dance and food from around the world, and it's taking place tomorrow, Sunday 27th July. Held in Campbell Park, Milton Keynes, the day is filled with back-to-back music and dance acts from eight different groups, including music from the Jaipur Kawa Brass Band, 'Mambo Jambo' and belly dancing from Badra Tribal. Part of the Milton Keynes International festival, this event is great for all the family. Bring a picnic and sit and enjoy the music and dance on offer at the amphitheatre stage, and if you're feeling inspired you can even join in with one of the workshops.

There will be a variety of international foods on offer from a number of stall holders, so you'll have lots of opportunities to try something new!

The event is free to attend, and hopefully the sun will be shining, so don't forget the suncream and sunhats, and come and have a great time spent relaxing in the sunshine! Join in the fun anytime from 1pm-6pm this Sunday.

Free fun at the MK Loveliness Festival this Saturday

This is the third year of the MK loveliness festival; a festival of free community music and arts for all the family run by Inter-action MK. Inter-action MK is a community arts charity which has been running in Milton Keynes for over 35 years. They use arts to help improve the life chances of disabled people and those in challenging circumstances, and helps participants to develop creative, personal and social skills.

The Loveliness Festival is a free day, this Saturday 26th July, running from midday 'till 8pm, and is held at the picturesque grounds of Inter-Action MK's Old Rectory gardens, Waterside, Peartree Bridge, Milton Keynes MK6 3EJ.

The day will include a variety of events, including live music from musicians including James Stimson and Mr Vee, 'The Spider Club' and 'The Bighead' to name just a few, and the night will finish off with a disco in the marquee. There will be live art and refreshments all afternoon, including a great pic 'n' mix selection, ice creams and a cocktail bar.

It's a fun day for all the family, with special activities for the kids, including face painting, bouncy castles, creative workshops, rides and games. 'Pyjama Drama' will be holding free drama sessions for children under 7 to get involved in.

As the name suggests, this should be a  'lovely' day!

For more information visit the Inter-Action MK website.