SHARING LIBRARIES - Have your say about your local library

Local residents can attend discussion sessions this week

The Newport Pagnell session is on June 24th, with the Olney discussion the following day.

Local residents are being invited to give their views on the future of libraries in Milton Keynes as part of a borough wide review that is seeking to make significant savings over the next three years.

A series of discussion sessions will take place in the borough’s nine libraries at the end of June and early July for people to hear about some current proposals, as well as put forward their own ideas on how they can support the libraries by sharing responsibilities and working together to use library buildings better and become more sustainable.

Cllr Gifford, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Community Services said “As we know, local authorities are facing unprecedented financial pressures and Milton Keynes is no exception. We have fantastic library services in the borough and we also have great communities. We are looking to bring the two together and work collaboratively to share the responsibly of shaping services that can not only be maintained, but improved for current and future generations.”

The council is looking for ideas from community groups, businesses, parish and town councils and local people who both use and don’t use the services.   Sessions are taking place at the following dates and locations:

Bletchley Library
6-7pm
Tuesday 23 June

Newport Pagnell Library
6-7pm
Wednesday 24 June

Olney Library
6-7pm
Thursday 25 June

Stony Stratford Library
6-7pm
Monday 29 June

Wolverton Library
6-7pm
Thursday 2 July

Central Library
6-7pm
Monday 6 July

Kingston Library
6-7pm
Tuesday 7 July

Woburn Sands
6-7pm
Thursday 9 July

Westcroft Library
6-7pm
Tuesday 14 July

Further updates will be made available at milton-keynes.gov.uk/libraries/about-libraries/library-locations.

We caught up with Councillor Derek Eastman this month

Newport Pagnell Councillor Corner

Get running - The MK Marathon is just one of the events Councillor Derek Eastman attended. 

The elections are over, the summer is coming and all is cosy in the garden – or is it. As I put pen to paper it is pouring with rain and I have only just caught up with the sleep I lost over polling day and the count. The new Council year is about to start and no doubt further Government cuts means another mean year to come. It was good to see residents voicing their concerns at last year’s budget setting and I hope we see a new era in local politics with residents continuing to effectively participate in issues that affect them. 

Thank you to all who voted 

As with all things that change, every ward in MK now has elections for MK Councillors for 3 years out of 4. On the 7th May it was my turn to stand in the MK local elections for Newport Pagnell South Ward and on the 8th May the count took place. The Liberal Democrats have represented Newport Pagnell South, Blakelands, Giffard Park and part of Great Linford for over 30 years and I am grateful for the support that I received. With a majority of 390 over the 2nd placed candidate and I was elected to serve for another 4 years. I will always continue to represent the residents of Newport Pagnell South Ward to the best of my ability.

Council results across MK

Across Milton Keynes the last minute swing to the Conservatives nationally rolled down to the local elections and the Conservatives gained four seats. However, Labour remains the largest party by only one seat and are expected to continue to run the Council as a minority administration. The Liberal Democrats entered the election with 12 seats, gained one seat, lost one seat and remained with 12 councillors. The make-up of the Council after the elections is as follows:-

Labour 23 (-2)

Conservatives 22 (+4)

Liberal Democrats 12 (-)

UKIP 0 (-1)

Vacant 0 (-1)

My term as Mayor 

Quite unexpectedly, on the 10th September 2014, I found myself elected as Mayor of Milton Keynes. This was both an honour and a privilege and I had no real idea of what to expect. However, although the role seemed daunting it proved to be exciting, challenging, rewarding and exhausting. 

I have been asked what my favourite event was and it is impossible to pick a single event. There have, however, been highlights. MK is truly a sporting city. I was there when the Dons achieved promotion to the Championship and I was asked to present the league 1 runners up cup to Dean Lewington. The Saints v Saracens rugby match was superb and a good trial for the arrangements for the World Cup later this year. I was asked to start the MK Marathon, which had attracted over 5000 competitors. I have been to many sporting events. I even took part in a Tai Chi session. 

MK also attracts high level business and I have opened new HQs and business centres for major organisations. Christmas and other parties for both children, families, and the elderly were fun and visits to local voluntary organisations AGMs were an experience. I also met with many local communities from, for example, Ghana, Ireland, Greece, India, Somaliland and Tibet. 

I was also invited to the 65th wedding anniversary of Mr and Mrs Brown who hailed from Jamaica. In fact I have been invited to over 400 events. But one thing I did note is that Milton Keynes has a beating heart of generosity revealed by the many who go out of their way to raise money and the many who willingly donate. I will never forget my term as Mayor.

Follow me online: derekeastman.mycouncillor.org.uk or on facebook at Cllr Derek Eastman. If you need to contact any of the Newport Focus Team,  e-mail NewportSouth@mklibdems.co.uk.

Tomorrow's local society events...

Tuesday, as always, is the day for many local societies to meet, and there's a whole list in this month's Phonebox magazine of what's on this Tuesday, have a look below for a reminder...

Newport Pagnell and District Probus Club at the Carlton House Club, Olney, 12.15pm.
Join for a buffet lunch followed by a speaker; this month is Lyn Kirkbright, who will relate 'The heart of volunteering and how I got stuck in the chair!'

Bridge at the Royal British Legion, Newport Pagnell, 7.30pm. 

Olney Jazz Club at the Carlton House Club, 8pm.
Featuring the Richard Baker Quintet. Richard was originally a trained trombonist, and has worked in pretty much every genre of music and appeared on numerous recordings throughout his 25 year career. The quintet was formed in 2013 and is a ensemble reminiscent of the quintets led by the likes of Frank Rosolino and Carl Fontana during the 50's and 60's. Tickets cost £10 on the door. Good food also available.

Newport Pagnell Historical Society, the United Reformed Church, Newport Pagnell, 7.30pm
A talk from Hugh Granger on 'A journey by stagecoach'.

Bedford Floral Art Society at the Addison Centre, Kempston at 7.30pm
Members meeting, with flowers, fun and friendship.

Olney Archaeological Society at the Olney centre, 10am-noon
Talk from Dr Jill Eyers: 'The birth of an ocean: The opening of the Atlantic'. The talk will be about the separation of South America from Africa. All are welcome, membership costs £20, or sessions cost £3 per lecture. Refreshments included.

Emberton and District Flower Club at the Carlton House Club, 7.30pm
A flower arranging demonstration entitled 'As we go down to the woods' by Emma Remington, NAFAS demonstrator, lecturer, flower arranger and florist.

If you're part of a local society which isn't currently featured in the Phonebox magazine, do send your information through so that we can cover as many groups as possible.

Burns Night- This weekend

Robert Burns was a great Scottish poet, who died in 1796. Burns night has become a celebration of his life, held on, or near, his birthday, the 25th January. Burns night traditionally involves a Burns supper, where groups of people gather in order to eat a traditional Scottish meal and enjoy Scotch whisky, and also traditionally his poety would be recited.

Nowadays, the emphasis is often on the whisky, and pubs will tend to advertise Burns night as a great excuse to drink their Scotch! However, the tradition of meals on the night is still around, and a number of restaurants will be offering a Burns night special this weekend.

• The Loch Fyne in the Hub, Milton Keynes is one of these places, offering a special menu for Burns night featuring some of the best Scottish foods.

• More locally, the Cowpers Oak in Olney is holding it's annual Burns night supper on Saturday night from 8pm, featuring the best Scottish cuisine and of course some classic malt whisky.

• Similarly, the Rose and Crown in Newport Pagnell will be serving haggis, neeps and tatties and whisky gravy from 6pm.

Check out your local restaurant or pub for some burns night events, and enjoy remembering the works of the great poet.

Review - MK Theatre's The Full Monty

The Full Monty is at MK Theatre until Saturday, January 24th. 

Last night I ventured out in the cold to Milton Keynes and saw the latest production to grace the stage, an adaptation of The Full Monty. 

The stage production stayed true to the film but was able to add all the subtle nuances that only a live production can offer. The set was the inside of a disused factory and the attention to detail was impressive. The director made good use of the different levels with a few pyrotechnics thrown in to make the audience jump!

What really makes the show is the great casting and the ability of the actors to engage the audience at every point in the story, music and dance scenes. All the actors have a great track record but the little boy who played Nathan really impressed the audience and some of the loudest noise was for him.

But of course you all want to know just how much of a `full monty` did the boys do!? Well, you will have to go and find out! You won`t be disappointed!

The Full Monty is on until Saturday, 24th January, at MK Theatre.

DEBBIE HALL

Small Business Saturday- This weekend

Earlier in the week, we told you about the upcoming 'Small business Saturday', the national day where you are encouraged to shop locally and support local businesses.

Well what is the best way for you to get involved then? Well, with the Christmas season approaching, there are a number of ways to join in with this campaign, and help support the local business owners in our communities.

Do your Christmas shop: You've probably already experienced the Christmas rush in the city centre, with the bright Christmas lights, people moving in all directions and queues at tills, it can sometimes be more of a stressful experience than a successful one. Searching for inspiration for gifts for those hard-to-buy-for friends and family members can be somewhat overwhelming amongst the huge variety on display, and then there's always the question of 'have they already got it.' Shopping locally can help you find some unique gifts which they (probably) don't have. As well as that you'll be supporting local retailers, many of whom make hand-made and bespoke items.

Eat locally: Why not take the opportunity this Saturday to avoid the supermarkets and use the local bakery, butcher and greengrocer to do some of your food shopping. While you won't find the big brands you'll find in the supermarkets, you will get some great, fresh produce, and you really will taste the difference. Why not take the opportunity to have a locally-sourced Christmas dinner? Find a local farm or butcher and order in your turkey for Christmas day, a great way of supporting the local businesses.

Newport Pagnell Lights Switch on- Tomorrow!

The Christmas festivities are getting into full swing this weekend with the Newport Pagnell lights switch on day. As you'll know if you've been before, it's far more than just the lights being switched on, it's a full day of stalls and various entertainment, ending with the lights switch on at 5pm.

The day begins bright and early for all those involved with the stalls being set up at 9am, opening at 10am. There will be a variety of stalls hosting various products, from crafts to foods, to other stalls giving things away and promoting their business or cause. The High Street is set to be buzzing, and we've got a few specific things going on to wet your appetite for the days events...

Visit Santa: The United Reformed Church will be hosting Santa's grotto from 1-5pm, and it costs £3 to visit Santa (gift included). They will also be holding other activities, including bauble decorating, Christmas card making and reindeer food making.

The Parish Church will be hosting their Christmas fair from 10am, with a selection of stalls selling gifts, books, crafts, Christmas cards, hats, scarves and much more. There will also be a raffle, tombola and refreshments served all day. There will be carol singing for all once the lights have been turned on.

Newport Pagnell Baptist Church will have a 'Get in the Picture' stall, where you can come and have your photo taken as part of the Christmas story, either by putting your head in the picture frame or by dressing up as a character from the nativity. You can then download your pictures for free from the website over the following week.

The Methodist Church are asking for volunteers to come and help decorate their three Christmas trees, with your own dedication or wish. Stop by between 2-6pm, tea and coffee will be available.

Brooklands Centre will also be holding their Christmas fair on the day, from 10am-4pm with stalls, hot dogs, chutney tasting, tombola and more. The Historical Society will also have a stall, as well as the Newport Pagnell Town Council, who will be serving mulled wine and Christmas games.

There will be a variety of live entertainment from 1pm, including performances from Diamonds theatre school, singing and more. There will be carol singing around the Christmas tree with Olney brass band at 4pm followed by a parade to the Swan revived hotel at 4.45pm, and then the lights will be switched on. Come along for some great Christmas festivities!

Please note- the High Street will be closed  to traffic for the Christmas Lights Event from 8am-7pm. From the Union Street to Ousebank Street junctions. 

GP surgery ratings- How does your surgery compare?

Recent findings have been published online regarding the rating of GP surgeries. Nationwide rankings have been collected and compared, allowing patients to see how their surgery compares to others in the area. We decided to have a look at how some of the GP surgeries in the Olney area had rated...

[The percentage is the proportion of patients who would recommend the surgery, and some of the surgeries also have a 'band' to rate them overall, from data published by the Care Qulaity Commission (CQC), with band 6 being the highest (best rated) and band 1 the lowest.]

Cobbs Garden Surgery, Olney: Band 4, 96.1% - Among the best

Newport Pagnell medical centre: 80.2%

Denton Village surgery: Band 6, 89.1%- Among the best  

Harrold Medical Practice: Band 6, 80.5%

Kingfisher Surgery, Newport Pagnell: Band 1, 34.2% - The worst

Wollaston surgery: Band 6, 67.2% - Among the worst in percentage but among the best in the banding.

It's interesting to see how your surgery compares to others in the area. Equally, if you are looking for a new surgery to attend then this can be a particularly useful tool in helping you make an informed decision.

If you want to have a more detailed look, the percentage ratings were taken from the NHS website, and the bands can be found on the Care Quality Commission website.

Do these ratings surprise you at all? How does your surgery compare?

Remembrance Sunday

Remembrance Sunday is held on the second Sunday of November every year, and this year it falls on the 9th November.

Remembrance Sunday marks the end to hostilities of the First World War, and the poppy has been the symbol of remembrance since 1921. Inspired by the World War I poem; 'In Flanders Fields', they were initially used by the American Legion to remember the American soldiers lost in the war, and were later adopted by other countries. Today, they are largely used by the UK and Canada, to remember all men and women who have died in all conflicts since 1914.

So if you want to remember the day with others, don't forget to head to a local church or War memorial this Sunday morning. Newport Pagnell Remembrance parade takes place on Sunday starting at 10am, and starts at Queens Avenue going along the High Street and ending at the church and war memorial.

Let's remember.

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.

One month today in Olney...

Olney Post Office is located inside McColl's newsagent in the market place, and has for many years offered a great service with typical opening times of 9.30am-5.30pm Monday- Friday, and 9am-12.30pm on Saturdays.

One month today, the Post Office will be re-opening following a 10-day refurbishment, which will improve the services offered to customers and also add an extra 59 hours a week of opening times. This is particularly good news if you're working 9-5 and need to post a parcel, as it looks like Olney Post office will be open until around 9pm every night, with increased hours over the weekend. The improved services will include bill payment, banking, benefits, travel money, home shopping returns and local collections. The refurbishment of the shop will feature a new open-plan layout, all aiming to help make life easier for Post Office customers, meaning you can use all of the Post Office services without having to go into the city.

This does mean that the Post Office will be shut from 5.30pm on 27th October until November 12th, but during this time, your nearest Post Office's are Lavendon and Newport Pagnell.

What's on this weekend

It's the weekend again (hooray!) and as always, there are plenty of events in and around the local area to keep you entertained. 

Saturday: 

Turvey Bloomers Apple Pressing Day @ Turvey Village Hall from 11am-2pm. 

Come along for a great free event at Turvey Village hall, with fresh and bottled apple juice, cider, breakfasts, ploughman's lunches, cakes, honey, bread and pies, all locally produced. There'll also be plants (to buy, not to eat!) and there'll be musical entertainment to enjoy along with your food and drink.

The Ancient Order of Foresters- Annual Charity Brunch @ The Harrold United Reformed Church from 10am-noon.

This event is being organised by Gill and Brian Hillier on behalf of The Ancient Order of Foresters, in aid of Sense for deaf-blind people. Come along and enjoy an English breakfast or danish pastry and tea or coffee, all for a donation. Enjoy the wonderful, foot-tapping sounds of the Bedford Ukulele group as you eat or drink. There will also be a raffle, cake stall and the chance to get in there early and buy some Christmas cards and wrapping paper.

Local Choirs and the Hospice sing @ Newport Pagnell Parish Church at 7.30pm.

Join the Newport Pagnell singers and the Cranfield based Sounds Familiar Community Choir in celebrating the role of the Hospices in our local communities. The concert is organised by the choirs in association with the Friends of Willen Hospice. Tickets cost £8.

Bark in the park @ Ouzel Valley Park at 10am.

The monthly dog-walking social is back, at just £1 per dog, come along and meet other dog walkers and enjoy a new dog-walking route. Walks typically last between 1-1.5 hours and involve on and off lead walking. Meet in the car park on Simpson Drive, off H9 Groveway. 

Tuesday Societies and Clubs!

Tuesday night seems to be the night for societies, there's a lot on tomorrow for you to have a look at!

Emberton and District Flower Club @ The Olney Centre, 7.30pm:
'Seasonal Twists'- Demonstration by Jane Belcher. The club meets on the first Tuesday of every month and all are welcome to join.

Bedford Floral Art Society @ The Addison Centre, Kempston at 7.30pm:
Open Evening with Barry Grey, NAFAS National Demonstrator, presenting: 'To tread a quiet pathway'. Raffle of arrangements and refreshments. Tickets cost £12, £10 for members. Everyone welcome, meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month.

Newport Pagnell Historical Society @ The United Reformed Church, Newport Pagnell, 7.30pm:
'A day in the life of Time Team' presented by Paul Blinkhorn. Admission is £3, £1 for members. There will be light refreshments and a raffle.

Olney Jazz Club @ The Carlton Club, 8pm:
The Ben Holder Quartet. A graduate of Birmingham Conservatoire, Ben Holder is recognised as one of the top jazz violinists in the country and, at 25, is one of the youngest to lead a band at OJC. A bargain at £10. Sponsored by the Phonebox Magazine. Food will be available.

Olney Archaeological Society @ The Olney Centre, main hall, 10am-12 noon:
'Servant of two masters: Priest in church and secular employment' a talk by Revd. Richard Coles, Radio and TV personality. Host of 'Saturday Live' Radio 4, TV appearances and more. All welcome, £3 for visitors, membership is £20 for 19 lectures.

....and that's just a selection!

Walk walk walk with the Newport Pagnell Muster!

The Sixth Newport Pagnell Muster takes place this Saturday, and is set to be a great day out for all the family. Each year a great number of people take part in the community walking event, many walking to raise money for charities. This year, there are five different walks to choose from, with varying difficulties taking different lengths of time. Each of the walks begins at the United Reformed Church on the Newport Pagnell High Street, and can be started any time from 10am. Full instructions and details of each of the walks will be given at the start from the United Reformed Church.

The key objectives of the Muster are to promote health, charity and fun. It also gives an opportunity to demonstrate the numerous benefits of Bury Field as a well-used amenity, and helps raise money for a number of worthwhile causes. As well as building on community spirit and helping local people get to know one another, it's a great event to invite visitors to the town and share some of the sights and local history. We'd really encourage you to get involved if you can!

Sunday: Soapbox, Smallspace, Sanctuary & Shopping

Tomorrow (Sunday 13th) brings a host of events to the Milton Keynes area, let's just hope the weather holds out for the ones taking place outside!

Newport Pagnell Soapbox Derby
This year there are a record number of carts entered into the Derby, so even if you're not planning on racing, do come along to cheer on the racers and see the variety of homemade carts on offer; it's always a great morning which involves much of the community. The Working men's club and 'Sew inspiring' will be opening their doors on the day, and the Newport Pagnell Baptist Church will be postponing their usual service to provide refreshments for racers and spectators. The Rose and Crown will have a BBQ on the go, and the awards and trophies will be presented there. Spectators are invited to come along for 10am, and racers need to be at Silver Street for 9am.

Smallspace Model Show
It's the model show for all things space, science fiction and fantasy, and it's being held in the Village Hall, Newport Road, Hanslope, between 10am and 4pm. The day presents an amazing mix of models and props from a wide range of science fiction programs, including: Dr. Who, Blake's 7, Thunderbirds and Space 1999, to name but a few. There will be the opportunity to have your photo taken with a Dr. Who UNIT Land Rover, and face-painting will be available for kids of all ages. There will be a special guest: Dirk Maggs, who is a writer, director and producer of a number of award-winning radio shows, best-known recently for bringing The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy to a theatrical audience. There will also be Daleks in the car park, and maybe the odd Cyberman... and if all that has you working up an appetite, head to the 'K-9 cafe' for some refreshments. There's a lot going on t this event, so if you have an interest in space, science fiction or fantasy, don't miss out!

HULA Animal Rescue: Children's Open Day
The HULA Animal Rescue is holding another of their regular events, and this time it's a children's open day. There'll be fun for all the family, including bouncy castles, fun and games, and children's workshops in rabbit care and mask making. There'll also be bargains in the bazaar and pet bed shed, and once you've worked up an appetite you'll find delicious refreshments on sale in 'The Trough'. There'll also be the HULA dog parade at 2pm. Entrance is £2, children go free. Come along and support your local rescue centre between 1pm and 4pm.

All day: Don't miss the French Food Market, held at the Castle Ashby Shopping Yard. Come and celebrate 'Bastille Day', which is the French National Day, and there'll be a great selection of traditional French market traders with some authentic, freshly prepared French foods. Bastille Day commemorates the start of the French revolution, and the Storming of the Bastille on the 14th July 1789. Foods on offer will include an extensive variety, such as: French breads, pastries, sweets, condiments, charcuterie, croissants, pain au chocolat, baklava, cakes, gateaux, crepes, waffles, tartiflette, Toulouse and merguez sausage and more, as well as some Spanish and Italian treats. The quality and authenticity of the foods on offer, and the enthusiasm of the stallholders makes this a market well worth visiting. The stalls will be open from 9am until 5pm, don't miss out on some tasty snacks!

Newport Pagnell Carnival- This Weekend!

It's that time of year again, the famous Newport Pagnell Carnival is back for two days, and it's set to be bigger and better than ever! This year's theme is 'Go wild at Carnival' which you can interpret as you wish, but I'm envisioning tigers and bears...

Over 40 floats will be hitting the high street on the Saturday of the carnival this year as part of the grand parade, with a variety of local groups and charities showcasing their work and many in fancy dress. One of the highlights of the Carnival, the variety of decorated floats is always entertaining and interesting, many of them are highly inventive and it's great to see what people are able to create! The parade kicks off at 12 midday and tends to last a couple of hours, giving you the rest of the day to enjoy the other elements of the Carnival. All money raised will be going to a great selection of local groups and charities, so it's a very worthwhile cause.

Other attractions through Saturday include:

• A live music stage for all the family
• Petting zoo- where you can get up close and meet the animals
• Funfair
• Golf simulators
• A great selection of foods
• Bar
• Inflatable play area
• And a vast number of stalls to browse

What else is on this weekend?

We've already mentioned the Olney Cherry Fair, but what else is there to entertain you this weekend around the area?... Well, the Phonebox Magazine have found quite a lot of events for you to get involved with, and as summer becomes more of a reality for us, there seem to be a lot of seasonal fetes and fairs around, so take your pick!

SATURDAY

Newport Pagnell Summer Fete @ The Parish Church, High Street, Newport Pagnell 
This is a family event which will have the usual mix of stalls, including crafts, puzzles, bric-a-brac, toys, tombola and raffle. The cake stall will be filled with yummy treats, and there will be the ever popular second hand book stall for you to browse and buy. Pop in on your way up the high street, any time between 10am and 2pm.

MK RSPCA Summer Fair @ Memorial Hall, Great Linford
Raising funds for the local RSPCA, the event will include a great variety. From unique and handmade gifts to raffles, tombolas, plants, bric-a-brac and jewellery, there's something to interest everyone. Refreshments will include homemade cakes, cream teas and a bar. Admission is free and parking will be available. Pop in anytime between 2 and 4.30pm this Saturday

Danesborough Chorus Summer Concert @ St. Mary's Church, Woburn 
An exciting summer concert, local choir Danesborough Chorus will be performing Howard Goodall's: Eternal Light, a Requiem, with Howard Goodall himself conducting. The event kicks off at 7.30pm. Tickets cost between £20 and £10, call the box office on 01908 583460 for more information.

...And as we've already mentioned but it's worth a reminder; the Olney Cherry Fair from 1pm @ Glebe Field, Church Street Olney and is well worth a visit!


SUNDAY

Churches together in Harrold and Carlton: Harrold Open Gardens
Come along between 1.30 and 6pm, start at Harrold Village Green to enjoy the many open gardens to view and enjoy. There's also a vintage and classic car display, ukulele band, cake stall, tea and coffee, homemade cakes and more. Admission costs £3 for adults, £2.50 for concessions and £1 for children over 12. All proceeds go to local charities.

Newport Pagnell Historical Society Musueum Opening @ Chandos Hall, Silver Street
Exhibition marking the centenary of the outbreak of WW1. Also, come along and see our recreation of a Victorian kitchen. books, maps, photographs and other items of general local interest on sale. Admission is free.

Free Fun Day raising funds for the Olney Town Colts @ Olney Recreation Ground
Come along from midday- 5pm and enjoy a free fun day with stalls, bouncy castles, food, a licensed bar and ice cream. The Ian Bufton big band will be playing throughout the afternoon. Bring a picnic and come and enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Holistic Pamper Day in aid of Willen Hospice @ The Well in Willen, Newport Road, MK15 9AA
Get pampered and raise money for charity at the same time. Local therapists are holding a pamper day to support Willen Hospice. Reflexology, manicures, swedish massage, gong sessions, Reiki and angel cards re just some of the treatments on offer at the Well in Willen. Treatments are offered at reduced rates; most are £15 for 30 minutes, and all proceeds go to Willen Hospice. Booking isn't required so feel free to pop by anytime between 10am and 5pm, cakes and other refreshments are also available.

The Great British Tennis Weekend

It's the Great British tennis weekend from tomorrow, which means that there are hundreds of free open days taking place across the country. This weekend is just one of them, you need to book your space online, but there are still some available... so what are you waiting for?! Book yourself on to enjoy some free tennis fun! The tennis venues taking part are offering free coaching and tennis for people of all ages and abilities. There are also free weekends on the 28th-29th June and the 19th-20th July, so if you've not got time this weekend there are still other opportunities! Visit the website to find a location near you. Local tennis clubs taking part this weekend include:

• Olney Tennis Club
• Stony Stratford LTC
• Milton Keynes Tennis Club
• David Lloyd Club Milton Keynes
• Wolverton Sports Club (Tennis Section)
• Newport Pagnell Tennis Club...

...and more! So don't miss out, either this weekend or next, get yourself booked in on the website for a free day of fun with friends or family!

Tuesday events in MK

We've got quite a few events to send your way for tomorrow, it almost feels like the weekend has come early!...

Newport Pagnell Historical Society walk around Woburn Sands, 6.45pm
Meet at the free car park beside the Greens Hotel, Woburn Sands (off Russell Street) at 6.45pm for a 7pm start, or if you need a lift, meet at Bury field car park, Newport Pagnell at 6.15pm. A walk around the beautiful Woburn Sands led by Paul Cox, costs £2 per person.

Olney & District Historical Society @ The Olney Centre, main hall, 7.30pm
A talk by Jeremy Sruehmeyer, professional family tree researcher, entitled: "Starting your Family Tree and where it could lead you". Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month by the Olney & District Historical Society, and membership fees cost £5 plus £1 per meeting. If you would like to visit then it will cost you £2 per meeting. Refreshments are included.

Dodgy Acoustic, supported by Ian Roberts, live @ The Stables, 8.45pm
This acoustic show features the first performances of new songs written for Dodgy's forthcoming album, to be released on Cherry Red Records in the summer, as well as some of their better known tracks. Having started to make a name for themselves on the music scene back in 1989, Dodgy have had numerous successes, including 12 Top 40 singles, and after a brief break, are back together and released their latest album in February 2012. They have created the opportunity at their shows for local musicians to support, featuring five slots of two songs each to showcase local talent. Tomorrow will see Olney's very own Ian Robert's taking to the stage, showcasing some of his songs.

Motorama

The annual car event is back to Olney this year! Motorama is one of the Newport Pagnell and Olney Lions Club's most popular events, and is coming back to the Market Place in Olney tomorrow! This year's event is set to host the biggest range of vehicles to date, with over 110 cars, bikes and other interesting vehicles already booked in to the event. The Stig will be present as usual, and will be posing with visitors for photographs, in return for a donation to charity. Although this is a free event, the Lions will be collecting for two charities; Prostate Cancer Charity, and the British Heart Foundation, and there will be raffles and collections throughout the day in aid of these charities. The event is definitely one not to be missed, and will be enjoyed by all; from youngsters who just love cars, to the more mature who will enjoy a trip through time.