Dear Reader

The school holidays might not have been as sunny as we could have hoped for, but the joy and camaraderie emitting from the Tokyo 2020 scenes were enough to put a smile on most people’s faces. We had mixed events for the first time, athletes sharing gold medals, new teen skateboarders and local pride erupting for the BMX team and 49er winners. An inspirational event to give hope for the future.

What we also saw was mental health being openly discussed. As mental health issues increasingly become a larger part of our lives, it is important that they are talked about and tackled as early on as possible. The family of Kelly Hewitt knows only too well where this can otherwise lead to, and their story of setting up We Mind & Kelly Matters (page 36) to turn a tragic loss into hope for others is truly remarkable.

A fundraising event that has become a staple locally is the Cransley Road Race, now in its 20th year. This will be the very final one; however, the new Starlight Walk, set in the grounds of Boughton House will without doubt become a success and be repeated (page 42). The return of outdoor cinema and Northants Open Studios (pages 44-45) will also delight many. With a central exhibition as well as open studios to visit throughout the county, NOS gives us a window on the talent pool of creativity based on our doorstep. Concerts and recitals are picking up again, and the gradually expanding What’s On section gives hope for better times ahead.

The recent lockdowns have given us all the opportunity to reorganise and have a good clear out. Many car boot and garage sales are taking place over the coming months, making for a great day out in which to grab a bargain. Kelmarsh Hall & Gardens (page 40) offer a late display of stunning dahlias, like the unique one on the front cover and, as the days draw in, you may consider joining or setting up a walking group to continue enjoying the outdoors in the autumn and winter months (page 60). For bookworms, Oundle Festival of Literature (page 48) returns with its new programme, so there is something for everyone in the pages ahead.

So find your joy and do what rocks your boat.

 

Vivi Sant Cole

Village Connect

Hillcrest House

Church Hill

Geddington

Northants

NN14 1AH

Tel: 01536 744700