It is quite hard to believe that it is now nine years since I first set up Village Connect to promote local businesses and fundraising events. Over the years, your continued support of the many magnificent, independent family businesses on our doorstep has never ceased to amaze me, and I remain truly grateful for your positive feedback and delight in VC’s usefulness and
professional quality.

Village Connect first started with a distribution to 2000 homes in 16 villages and, to celebrate its ninth anniversary, the circulation will be expanded to 19500 homes, a nine-fold increase of the original. This is in response to the many approaches I have had from villages who wish to receive VC, and it is with great pleasure that I welcome those who are now joining our ‘family’.

After the wettest winter on record, it is a relief to know that spring is just around the corner, bringing with it buds and birds and spring lambs jumping in the fields. With March comes Mothering Sunday and, on page 26, you will find a recipe for carrot cupcakes for Mum or you can wrap up a ‘Fiery Italian’ for her if you follow the steps on page 32. As any mother knows, the wellbeing of your child is at the core of parenthood and something we tend to take for granted. However, not everyone in this world is that fortunate; read the touching article of ‘one step at a time’, a charity set up by Higham Ferrers volunteer, Sandra Murphy, to support vulnerable children and their families in Uganda. Maybe a donation to this valuable cause would be an idea for Mother’s Day?

Easter activities from egg hunts to country fairs are taking place in April at our country houses and parks and are the ideal opportunity to explore some of the picturesque settings by which we are surrounded; just look to the pages ahead for inspiration on what to do. Local students from Aldwincle and Northampton have had recent successes in London, see pages 106
and 110, and the article on The Travers Foundation on page 80 will show how young actors, dancers, singers, artists and sports stars can receive a grant to follow their dream.

You can use the quick response code on the front cover or follow Village Connect on facebook and twitter (@vcupdates) for the latest events taking place in our region. Enjoy Spring!

Hillcrest House

Church Hill

Geddington

Northants

NN14 1AH

Tel: 01536 744700