As we have already passed the longest day of the year, the conclusion must be that, with a few exceptions, the summer so far has been a bit of a washout. However, all is not over yet and maybe now that the hosepipe ban has been lifted the sunshine will return?

Well and truly watered, our gardens are looking green and lush in time for the season of open events and flower festivals but some dry weather would not go amiss as we look forward to the many fabulous festivals and outdoor performances that will take place over the coming months.

Without a shadow of doubt, the London 2012 Olympics will be a dominant factor this summer and a once-in-a-lifetime event for most of us. Look to pages 8-9 for details of the Torch Relay, as it crosses our region on Monday 2nd July, to make sure you get to see the Olympic Flame as it travels through our towns and villages.

Another first for our community is the arrival of The Vintage Festival at Boughton House, see pages 22-23. Just as the front cover, this awardwinning festival will be set against the backdrop of the Northamptonshire Home of the Duke & Duchess of Buccleuch to feature music and fashion from eight decades. July will also see the Oundle International Festival, now in its 28th season, and the return of the Food Festival and Fringe Festival (see pages 50-51, 64 and 76-79 for details) and, in Cranford, the second CranfordLive! will take place in August, see pages 84-85.

The Summer Fun section on pages 92-97 is jam-packed with family events to do over the holidays and throughout Village Connect there are several competitions to enter to win tickets to Wistow Maze, a meal for two at The King’s Arms in Polebrook or beer and wine from Waitrose to cheer the Team GB on.

Have a wonderful summer and let the Games begin...

Vivi Sant Cole 

Village Connect

Hillcrest House

Church Hill

Geddington

Northants

NN14 1AH

Tel: 01536 744700