Welcome to Village Connect

Dear Reader

At the beginning of each year, you never know what to expect.  2022 certainly turned out to be a turbulent one, both on a global and national scale.

For New Year’s Eve, I have established my own little tradition.  I sit in my favourite chair and light the last candles on our Christmas tree.  As I look into those small flames, I reminisce on all the precious times spent with family and friends during the year as it comes to a close, and I count my blessings for all the love I have in my life.  The highlight of 2022 for our family was, without doubt, the wedding of our older son, Daniel, to his wonderful wife, Lily.  A truly magical day, full of joy, spent with family from all over the world; those memories will stay with me forever.  

As you reflect on what has passed, you also look ahead to what may lay before you.  There will be several milestones to mark for us in 2023.  In April, Village Connect, or my fourth baby as we teasingly call it, will come of age and turn 18.  It has been my absolute pleasure to be able to bring local business to local villages for all those years and to help promote local charities and the art scene in our area.  I cannot thank you enough for your loyal support and for making this possible.

In July, it will be 30 years since our expanding family moved to Geddington, and we have thoroughly enjoyed the sense of community that still remains so alive in our villages.  John and I shall also be celebrating 35 years of married life, so lots of joyous times ahead.

As we rest and restore our minds and bodies through winter, it is even more important for our wellbeing to maintain a link to nature.  Kettering Wellbeing Walks (page 28) welcome new members and joining up would be a great way of getting outdoors and meeting new people at the same time. If you prefer indoor activities, you will find anything from yoga to reformer fitness at Ironstone Wellbeing Centre (page 18).

Not long from now, the first bringer of spring, the snowdrops, will find their way through the ground.  You can enjoy displays of this beacon of hope during walks at Deene Park (page 20) and Lamport Hall (page 30).  Younger readers can enjoy a winter wonder trail at Lyveden (page 44), so wrap up warm and enjoy our glorious countryside, knowing that spring is just around the corner.

So from the bottom of my heart, may I wish you all a happy and healthy 2023 filled with love, light and kindness.

Hillcrest House

Church Hill

Geddington

Northants

NN14 1AH

Tel: 01536 744700