to see how to enter

Winning critical acclaim, being voted for BBC Radio 2s Audience Award for Best Musical and receiving eight nominations in the What’s On Stage Awards, audiences have also been wowed in Canada, Germany and New York.

As for the album of the same name, it remains one of the most successful of all time, selling more than 50 million copies worldwide. Furthermore, its sequel (Bat Out of Hell ll: Back into Hell), which included the monster hit I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That), didn’t do too shabbily either.

“Great music is timeless and ageless,” agrees Glenn. “Queen, Bon Jovi, Tina Turner - this album is in the same bracket as those by of these classic artists. New audiences are coming to older music all the time. And nobody wrote rock anthems that are essentially musical theatre numbers like Jim. I think this was his finest work and I’m just so glad that he got to make this show before he died.”

“You can hear the theatricality of the songs; you really feel the fact that they were written as musical numbers,” Martha chips in, pointing out that while some younger people discover the music first and then come to the show; others do it the other way around.

“We get a lot of younger people coming to the show and discovering Jim’s music for the first time. It’s labelled as being suitable from age thirteen upwards, which I think is about right,” she says, grinning at the memory of her teenage brother experiencing the show for the first time.

“He’s a typical teenage boy and so when he said that he really liked it I knew for certain that it had broad appeal. Everyone falls in love with this show.”

As for the tour, the cast will have to think of it as a marathon rather than a sprint. Already booked until the end of October, with new dates still being added, not many people in the UK will lack the opportunity of ‘going to Hell.’

“It is so exciting to see all these places and to visit all these wonderful theatres,” sighs Martha.”

As for Milton Keynes, Glenn has a particular reason for being happy that the show is scheduled to stop there. “I’m a local boy there, so all my family will be coming along. It’s going to be so good to be at home and to see everyone”.

Bat Out of Hell plays at Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday 14 to Saturday 25 June. Tickets are available from

www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

TRAVEL

NOS Hotel & Villas

The Gate House

in North Norfolk’s Finest Estate

Mention the word Gate House and in most people’s minds it conjures up the English dictionaries definition of a small house at a gate that leads into a park, castle or other large building, often lived in by someone who takes care of the estate. Which is exactly what the Gate House at the entrance to Wolterton Park, a stunning 18th century 500acre estate in North Norfolk used to be, but now it’s been utterly transformed into a little piece of heritage heaven!

This Grade II listed building takes centre stage at the entrance to the Park and is the latest property on the estate to be brought back to its former glory by award-winning interior designer owners Peter Sheppard and partner Keith Day who bought the Park back in 2016 and have slowly been turning the whole estate back into a peaceful haven in the Norfolk countryside. If first impressions are anything to go by, we are in for a real treat. The charming Georgian building greets us with its private gardens and stone columned portico that was brought from St Anne’s house, Kings Lynn in 1914.

Stepping through the large impressive front door it is more than evident how much care, thought and love has gone into the restoration, from the 18th century reclaimed panelling in the hallway to the Persian rugs and eclectic array of paintings and pictures everywhere – Your eyes dart from one to the other wondering what stories they have to tell.

There’s two cosy sitting rooms, one is perfect for taking morning coffee as the sun shines through the window accentuating the many period pieces of furniture and crystal chandelier. The marble fireplace complete with

open fire and logs is the essence of warmth and relaxation. The other sitting room has a more relaxed atmosphere and lends itself for curling up by the fire and simply chilling after a busy day exploring North Norfolk and all it has to offer.

The 18th century panelling continues upstairs in one of the bedrooms (there are 3 bedrooms – 2 doubles upstairs and 1 single downstairs) painted a heritage duck egg blue, with 18th century hand painted Dutch tiles in the fireplace, this is my favourite bedroom. The dark antique furniture against the blue panelling, exposed wooden floorboards and rugs, create a visually rich combination of understated grandeur.

Both upstairs bedrooms have their own ensuite bathrooms, one with ‘Jack and Jill’ doors leading onto the landing. Both beautifully appointed with cast iron baths, Burlington basins and large walk in showers, the interior genius behind the design is imagination at its best.

Back downstairs, to the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of the house –The kitchen. The aesthetics here are a mix of country cottage chic and traditional farmhouse. Daylight floods through the tall window creating a bright and airy space. The large wooden table takes centre stage, and the kitchen itself is equipped with all the mod cons you could possibly need, all blending with the traditional effortlessly.

The stable door leads out into the private garden, perfect for sitting in the evening with a cool glass of wine watching the sun slowly fade away or greeting the sheep in the field next to the gate with your morning coffee, a beautiful, tranquil space to relax and breath in the fresh country air.

Exploring the Estate is a must, whether it’s taking out one of the canoes on the private lake, enjoying a little horse riding, or just a leisurely stroll there is so much to see and do, and of course you can’t stay here and not wander up the long drive to the main house and take delight in a tour (included in all stays) where you can see the splendour and impressiveness Sheppard and Day have created in all the rooms of this palatial home.

The Estate is perfectly situated for exploring the many beaches and quaint towns North Norfolk has to offer, be it a stroll along the soft, golden sand at Wells-next-the-Sea or a visit to Sheringham, a traditional seaside town, grown around an old fishing village, you’ll never tire of the abundance of things to do and see.

Be sure to pay the historic Georgian town of Holt a visit. Around every corner there’s something of interest, from charming courtyards and alleyways to hidden boutiques and coffee shops and for the more cultured amongst us, there’s art galleries and book shops galore! If you only have a small amount of time to spend in Holt, then it has to be Afternoon Tea at ‘Byfords’. This higgledy-piggledy building is thought to be the oldest house in Holt (the cellar dates back to the 15th century), a survivor of the great fire of Holt in 1708 and a further fire in the building in 1906.

With so many local pubs and restaurants within walking distance or a short drive from The Gate House, you’ll never go hungry. Two of our favourites were The Saracens Head, a Georgian Inn within walking distance of the Estate. Wholesome British ingredients are showcased throughout their mouth-watering menu. We tempted our taste buds with cauliflower veloute and Tandoori pigeon in a chipotle and cashew sauce, this was an utterly delightful dish, full of strong flavours and textures.

Roast chicken breast with brioche pudding and Norfolk venison loin served with black pudding croquettes followed, both dishes produced a burst of flavour that was a simply delicious.

If your palette prefers a more Mediterranean tapas style dining experience then The Suffield Arms near Cromer should be on your radar. Quirky, interesting and full of fascinating artwork and history. The selection of tapas dishes offers something for everyone’s palette. Particular favourites were the garlic King prawns, scallops, slow cooked pig’s cheeks and harissa lamb, all beyond flavoursome and cooked beyond perfection.

Once all the exploring and eating is finished it’s time to head back to The Gate House, a union of timeless elegance, contemporary comfort and effortless luxury, all in the heart of the Wolterton Estate, it sets the standard for so much more than just a place to stay, it’s a home that you never want to leave.

BOOK IT

The Gate House is a Charming Georgian cottage with private gardens situated at the entrance to the Wolterton Estate.

Accommodation for up to 5 guests, prices from £1053 for a three night stay.

Book at www.woltertonpark.co.uk.

ELLA RESORTS 5* HELEA FAMILY RESORT IN RHODES

Ella Resorts is proud to announce the launch of Helea 5* Beach Resort this July, a spectacular family property on the beautiful island of Rhodes.

Designed over a 45,000 square meter estate with 503 rooms and suites, Helea offers laidback luxury for the whole family. The resort was designed to make the most of its magnificent surroundings with floor to ceiling windows that provide spectacular views across the sea, beautifully landscaped gardens & shimmering turquoise pools. The attentive staff and excellent facilities provide a playground retreat for all ages with live music, watersports, an all-day beach bar, entertainment, a cinema and games room. There are 11 freshwater pools to choose from and a dedicated children’s pool, plus a 700 square meter water park.

Ella Kids Park has been entirely designed by kids, crafts and costumes create a unique experience for the resorts’ little guests. Children will be kept entertained with the plethora of activities on offer, leaving parents plenty of time to relax. The timetable is brimming with fun things to do including: escape rooms, arts and crafts, indoor climbing, and basketball. The kid’s club accommodates children from 4 months to 12 years old and offers a nanny service in the evenings (upon request, with extra service).

Helea’s 503 rooms and suites are inspired by contemporary design and Rhodian interiors, spacious in layout and provide a relaxing environment for up to five guests, each with a private terrace, balcony, garden or even a swim-up pool. All rooms & suites feature orthopaedic mattresses, allowing each guest to enjoy a bespoke experience and guaranteed comfort, while guests staying in suites will have the option of a pillow menu.

Avid foodies will have their taste buds tantalised with the choice of a number of restaurants, including three a la carte (two of which will feature menus designed by a Michelinstarred Chef) offering a range of cuisines including Greek, Italian, Mediterranean, Latin American and street food. There is even a children’s food hall to satisfy picky eaters. Guests can choose from a Half Board or Premium AllInclusive programme.

The beautiful in-house spa offers an extensive menu of relaxing treatments. There is a fully-equipped fitness centre, a fitness instructor offering a range of classes, including yoga & pilates, while tennis, and water sports facilities are also available.

BOOK IT

Nightly rates at Helea Family Beach Resort start from £325 for a family of four, on half board basis, staying in a Family Junior Suite.

For more information and opening special offers please visit: ellaresorts.com

Live Like the Queen with a Four-Night Stay at The Phoenicia and The Xara Palace in Malta

With Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee nearly this month, why not celebrate this momentous occasion, and the long bank holiday weekend in style with a four-night stay at The Phoenicia and The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux in Malta.

In honour of Her Majesty’s succession to the throne over 70 years ago, and her love for Malta, The Phoenicia in Valetta and The Xara Palace in Mdinahave joined forces to create an unmissable Queen’s Platinum Jubilee package, which includes two delightful nights at each hotel.

It’s well known that before her Coronation, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip spent some of their happiest years as newlyweds living on the sun-dappled island of Malta, where the Queen led a carefree existence from 19491951 while Prince Philip worked as a naval officer.

To celebrate the long Jubilee weekend, discover the island the Queen loves so much with two luxurious nights in a Superior Room at The Phoenicia, located by the main gates of the citadel capital, Valletta. After a day spent discovering the vibrant city, relax by the hotel’s pool or enjoy a 45minute spa treatment, which is included in the stay. Following two nights in Valletta, head to the historical, former capital of Malta, Mdina and enjoy a sumptuous twonight stay at The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, a former 17th-century palazzo, beautifully restored as a boutique hotel. One evening enjoy the delights of Malta’s vineyards with a special wine tasting experience, hosted by The Xara Palace’s Sommelier, which is also included in the stay.

BOOK IT

Rates for The Phoenicia and The Xara Palace’s four-night Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Package are €1,502 / £1,255 and include two nights in a Superior Room at The Phoenicia inclusive of daily breakfast and one 45-minute spa treatment per person, and two nights in a Duplex Room at The Xara Palace inclusive of daily breakfast and a wine tasting experience with Sommelier.

The offer is available until 31 October 2022. For more information on the offer visit:

www.xarapalace.com.mt/queenplatinumjubilee

A LITTLE MORE LUXURY IN MYKONOS

Kouros Hotel & Suites 5* luxury boutique hotel, overlooking Mykonos Town, Greece have added even more luxury for you to enjoy, with their brand-new villas and suites that create an extravagant stay for guests to adore. Located just a step away from the cosmopolitan town of Mykonos, Kouros Hotel & Suites offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Aegean coastline from every room. The hotel is also renowned for its stunning sunsets which guests can enjoy from the comfort of their suite or villa.

The latest additions to the hotel are the brand new and ultra-luxe fresh new suites and decadent modern villas, all home to the infamous Mykonian decor combined with contemporary furniture and an artistic flair; and all offering private or shared pools. This is the perfect getaway for those looking for a true 5* experience.

Natural elements of wood and marble blended throughout, elevate the architecture, and complement the minimalistic style.

Along with new accommodation options, the hotel welcomes a fantastic brand-new infinity pool, a new restaurant and lounge bar.

Guests can also enjoy a Greek signature menu at the fabulous fine dining Narcissus restaurant or savour refreshing cocktails at the atmospheric pool side bar.

For those seeking relaxation away from the glamourous nightlife, Kouros’ Zoe Spa offers a holistic range of therapies, rituals, and beauty treatments to re-energise the mind, body, and soul. The Spa features a rain therapy shower, hammam and hot tub to melt any troubles away. There is also a fully equipped wellness and fitness centre so guests can spend time toning up before hitting up Mykonos town!

For more information or to book, visit

www.kouroshotelmykonos.gr

STARS

Manish Kumar Arora (K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant) reveals what’s in store for you this month

Gemini (21 May – 20 June) You’re more romantic and charismatic, and you want your love to transcend, though you may need help to see the person you’re with clearly. You also like being in groups, and this can be a good time to join a new group dedicated to something that you’re passionate about. You may feel more like yourself emotionally, and are more nurturing and supportive of your family. This is a good time to improve your physical self with a makeover or cosmetic surgery. Favourable Dates: June 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colours: Black & Yellow

Cancer (21 June – 22 July)

You’re forward-thinking, and can decide to try something new out of the blue that’s completely different from your usual life. You can be more passionate and sensual in love, and if you’re in a relationship, you want to let your passionate side out. If single, you can attract people to you with your sensuality, and are attracted to people who seem secure, practical, and earthy.

Favourable Dates: June 7, 9, 16, 18, 25, 27 Favourable Colours: White & Yellow

Leo (23 July – 22 August)

You’re optimistic about whatever happens, and you feel good. You may tend to go on a new journey in life, start a big new project, grab the opportunities that surround you. You’re enthusiastic and have a positive attitude about whatever you do, and you’re willing to take the next step and get things going. You may have an easier time communicating your beliefs to people and swaying them over to your side.

Favourable Dates: June 2, 6, 11, 15, 20, 24 Favourable Colours: Red & Green

Virgo (23 August – 22 September)

You feel most like yourself when you’re engaging your mind. You want to spend more time around other people for the mental stimulation, and you can learn something new on your own or take a class. You may come across as more curious and intellectual. You may only feel comfortable being affectionate in private, and don’t want to engage in any public displays. If single, you could begin a relationship in secret.

Favourable Dates: June 5, 6, 14, 15, 23, 24 Favourable Colours: Green & Purple

Libra (23 September – 22 October)

This is a good time to accomplish something and tackle goals, though it may be at the expense of everything else in your life. You have a greater belief in yourself, are more confident, and think bigger than usual. You come up with big ideas and don’t think there’s any reason why you can’t accomplish them. You’re optimistic about whatever happens, and you feel good.

Favourable Dates: June 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22 Favourable Colours: Red & Yellow

Scorpio (23 October – 21 November)

You may feel stronger, have more vitality and your mind may be sharper and more active. You may have an easier time making money, and an even easier time spending it, and your self confidence may be stronger. You feel romantic, in the mood for love, and have an easier time committing yourself to someone. If in a relationship, you enjoy being with your partner, and want to spend more time with them.

Favourable Dates: June 6, 8, 15, 17, 24, 26 Favourable Colours: Blue & Yellow

Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December)

This can be a good time to bring everything full circle and take advantage of opportunities that get put to the side and make progress with the things that got slowed down in the past.. You would need to get working, get organised, and focus on the small tasks and chores and projects that need your attention pronto. You feel more confident and secure, and this helps you get your emotions under control.

Favourable Dates: June 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26 Favourable Colours: Blue & White

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January)

You embrace yourself as a unique individual, and are less likely to follow the crowd. You’re attracted to ideas that seem unusual, bizarre, futuristic, or innovative, and to people who are original thinkers. You’ll need to find a creative way to express your emotions. If single, you can meet someone through a sibling, neighbour, or in your community. If you’re in a relationship, you can have a mental rapport with your partner.

Favourable Dates: June 3, 10, 12, 19, 21, 30 Favourable Colours: Yellow & Grey

Aquarius (20 January – 18 February)

You can be presented with a new job opportunity, start a new work project, find renewed energy and love for your work, start a new routine, or embark on a healthier lifestyle. You want to experience life through your body, and your senses are heightened. In love, you can be more affectionate and romantic, and if in a relationship, you want to spend more time with your partner.

Favourable Dates: June 2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25 Favourable Colours: Blue & Yellow

Pisces (19 February – 20 March)

You can feel more like your true self, and are willing to go outside of the box and be a little different if it means getting what you want. You can benefit from being a rebel or from being more eccentric. You can improve your existing relationships, enter into a new partnership, commit yourself to something, make a compromise, strike a balance, or bring some peace into your life.

Favourable Dates: June 5, 7, 14, 18, 23, 25 Favourable Colours: Purple & Green

Aries (21 March – 19 April)

This can be an excellent time to make a transformation of something in your life, or of yourself. It’s likely that you feel something needs to change, and you have the energy and drive to do that now. You can start to see things turn around if you’ve learned your lessons and done the hard work. You can find opportunities for new experiences and to broaden your horizons, and open your mind to the world.

Favourable Dates: June 3, 4, 12, 13, 20, 26 Favourable Colours: Blue & White

Taurus (20 April – 20 May)

You want the mental stimulation being around other people provides for you, and you enjoy good times you can have with them. You feel most comfortable with your friends, enjoying the time you spend with them and the way they make you feel like you’re not walking through this world all by yourself. If single, you can meet someone through a relative. If in a relationship, you try to forge more emotional bond with your partner.

Favourable Dates: June 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colours: Red & Green

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

Weekend Starts Here....

IDOL By LOUISE O’NEILL

‘Follow your heart and speak your truth.' For Samantha Miller's young fans - her 'girls' - she's everything they want to be. She's an oracle, telling them how to live their lives, how to be happy, how to find and honour their 'truth'. And her career is booming: she's just hit three million followers, her new book Chaste has gone straight to the top of the bestseller lists and she's appearing at sell-out events. Determined to speak her truth and bare all to her adoring fans, she's written an essay about her sexual awakening as a teenager, with her female best friend, Lisa. She's never told a soul but now she's telling the world. The essay goes viral. But then - years since they last spoke - Lisa gets in touch to say that she doesn't remember it that way at all. Her memory of that night is far darker. It's Sam's word against Lisa's - so who gets to tell the story? Whose 'truth' is really a lie? 'You put yourself on that pedestal, Samantha. You only have yourself to blame.'

FATHER STU

Based on the true story of a boxer from Los Angeles who realises he will never make it in the sport, this faith-based narrative follows the title character's journey from a self-destructive miscreant to a Catholic priest. Stu isn't your typical bad guy, even though he endured a childhood with an abusive, often absent father and an ineffectual mother. His journey toward the priesthood takes several odd turns, first heading to Hollywood to try to make it as a movie star. When he meets a deeply religious girl, he starts going to church, soon realising he has a divine calling.

Release Date: 14th June

JURASSIC WORLD – DOMINION

Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard are joined by Oscar-winner Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum and Sam Neill in Jurassic World Dominion, a bold, timely and breathtaking new adventure that spans the globe. Dominion takes place four years after Isla Nublar has been destroyed. Dinosaurs now live - and hunt - alongside humans all over the world. This fragile balance will reshape the future and determine, once and for all, whether human beings are to remain the apex predators on a planet they now share with history's most fearsome creatures.

Release Date: 10th June