Articles

As the days get visibly longer, spring flowers keenly pierce their heads above ground and colourful buds unfold in front of our eyes, it is time to turn our focus to the outdoors. Our local country houses, so rich in heritage: Boughton, Deene, Lamport and Kelmarsh, are opening up their halls and gardens for visitors, many with egg hunts and family fun over Easter.

Country exploration can start from a very early age, see page 64 for the spring Nature Tots sessions taking place at our country parks. If you wish to explore the countryside at a faster pace, turn to page 68 on a new running initiative, or try sailing with Middle Nene Sailing Club on page 7?

Most of us are part of village organisations raising funds for valuable causes and local charities, and there are no end of events to support in the pages ahead. On page 92 you can read about a fresh approach to fundraising and on page 88 on how Oundle Box Office can help sell tickets for your events.

Sandra Naylor’s stunning Mother’s Day arrangement adorns the front cover; read her rather appropriate tribute to her Mum on pages 50-51 and about her mixed emotions about closing down The Garden Room in Thrapston. Luckily, Sandra has promised to continue her heart-warming tips & tales from her own garden room in future issues. As The Garden Room closes in Thrapston, Cozens & Dean opens up. Read about this new financial services company, on page 6. On pages 38- 39 you can join Funky Lil’ Feet in celebrating eight years in Thrapston with helpful hints about how to look after young feet.

April also marks the eight anniversary for Village Connect, first launched in 2005 to ‘bring local business to local villages’. The many exquisite and mostly independent family businesses featured in Village Connect are also listed on the website for you to search online at anytime. For its birthday, Village Connect is entering the social media, so for the latest news like us on facebook or follow on twitter at #vcupdates.

Hillcrest House

Church Hill

Geddington

Northants

NN14 1AH

Tel: 01536 744700