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Half Marathon + 5K Fun Run
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Welcome to our Summer in the City special issue of ESP Magazine. Let’s get this summer party started!
Welcome
Bringing you the best of local Leisure and Lifestyle in Greater Peterborough for over 20 years!
We’re looking forward to a full-on few weeks attending some great events and trying new experiences as we head outside for summer theatre shows, boat trips at Nene Park and of course celebrate the return of Peterborough Beer Festival this August. The amazing Natural History Museum dinosaur exhibition finally arrives at Peterborough Cathedral, there’s live music to dance to, comedy to giggle at, the chance to eat outside at last and some stunning shows to enjoy at our local theatres.
Yes, it’s definitely time to get your social life buzzing and make the most of the next few months. There’s certainly a lot to look forward to and this issue of ESP Magazine is packed with all the ideas you need. As usual we just can’t squeeze it all in so there’s even more on our website. We’ve been letting you know what’s on and where to go in and around Peterborough for over 20 years and everything you love about ESP is online on our website www.espmag.co.uk and social media. We’re constantly adding fresh content to keep you up to date every week, so don’t miss out on all the latest leisure and what’s on news. When you want to plan your social life always take a look online first. If you have anything for us to mention please email me, sharon.mcallister@espmag.co.uk Sharon McAllister, Editor
Cover Image Mabel Design Tony Mayer Photography Mike Harris Wayne Bloye Chris Brudenell Contributors Pep Cipriano Gavin Miller Karen Devine Michael Clarke Darren Grigas Sarah Slack Kelly Jackson Karen Miller
ESP Magazine is an independent publication written, researched, designed and published by ESP Media. The views expressed in the magazine are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. All design and artwork is the copyright of the respective owner. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited unless written prior consent is given by the publisher.
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Entertainment LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS HERE COME THE BOYS Fresh from wowing audiences and critics alike at the London Palladium, Here Come The Boys is taking this incredible dance show on the road! Strictly’s familiar dance superstars Graziano di Prima, Nadiya Bychkova, Pasha Kovalev and Strictly finalist Karim Zeroual are joined by the sensational Nikita Kuzmin. Get the sequins on and get ready for a night with a cutting-edge soundtrack of dancefloor anthems, club classics and guilty pleasures, in this showstopping dance extravaganza. Head to the New Theatre on Monday July 18 for what promises to be the biggest party of the year! Call the box office on 01733 852992 or visit the website: www.newtheatre-peterborough.com
Peterborough is blessed with some great amateur theatre groups and we’re pleased to see The Revellers are back and celebrating 75 years performing in the city. They’ve picked a good one too; they’ll be staging Little Shop of Horrors this summer, based on the hit film. The Revellers usually stage around two shows a year with a mixture of musical theatre, plays and variety shows and have built up a strong reputation in Peterborough. Tickets for this great fun show at the Key Theatre are on sale now and it runs from August 31 to September 3 with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. For tickets call the box office on: 01733 963577 or visit: www.keytheatre-peterborough.com/whats-on/
GET READY... FOR MOTOWN Voted the UK’s best tribute in 2020, this award-winning celebration of Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons proudly features West End leading men from hit musicals such as Jersey Boys.
Get Ready… here it comes! This spectacular concert-style production features a stellar cast of critically-acclaimed singers and musicians, performing back-to-back soul and Motown classics!
Paying a charismatic tribute to Frankie Valli – his life, his music and his legacy – Frankie’s Guys are back for 2022 with a fresh take on their award-winning show. Featuring unrivalled vocals, slick moves and side-splitting comedy (well they think they’re really funny) this is a night out at The Cresset theatre on Friday June 24 you don’t want to miss!
Recreating the original Motown sound with exceptional authenticity, Get Ready’s outstanding vocal harmonies, dazzling costumes, and electric choreography immaculately revives one of the greatest eras of music the world has ever seen.
Taking you back to the era of live music – effortlessly recreated by their trusty (and cheeky) band, get ready to singalong to over 20 timeless classics, such as Big Girls Don’t Cry, Sherry, Walk Like A Man, Oh What A Night! and many more.
Featuring hits from The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5, and many more!
FRANKIE’S GUYS
For tickets call the box office on 01733 265705 or visit: www.cresset.co.uk
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Don’t miss this great night out at The Cresset on Friday July 28. Call the box office on 01733 265705 or visit www.cresset.co.uk
THE BLACK BLUES BROTHERS No one can resist the energy of The Black Blues Brothers in their acrobatic tribute to the legendary cult movie. These five Kenyan acrobats bring you the energy of African circus to a backdrop of nostalgic 80s hits from the film at the New Theatre on Saturday September 3. Expect jawdropping balancing acts, acrobatics with fire and human pyramids as The Black Blues Brothers use every chair, table and coat rack as part of their breathtaking routines! Set in a nightclub, reminiscent of the Cotton Club, a vintage radio blasts out all of your favourite hits from the film, including Gimme Some Lovin’, Sweet Home Chicago and Soul Man. Everybody needs someone to love, and The Black Blues Brothers need you, you and you to get up and get down with them! Call the box office on 01733 852992 or visit: www.newtheatre-peterborough.com
THE SOUND OF SPRINGSTEEN The Sound of Springsteen takes to the stage for another year of touring in 2022 and heads to The Cresset on Saturday August 20. With a passion for the work of The Boss, the 8-piece tribute brings their years of live performances and recording to rock you with Bruce Springsteen's greatest hits and deep cuts. With songs including Born In The USA, Glory Days, Streets of Philadelphia and many more, this is a night of passion for Springsteen! Call the box office on 01733 265705 or visit www.cresset.co.uk
ROY ORBISON AND THE TRAVELING WILBURYS EXPERIENCE There are several wonderful tribute shows to see at The Cresset this summer and if you were a fan of the Traveling Wilburys this one’s for you featuring five authentic look-and-sound-alikes. Now in its ninth successful year of touring, Paul Hopkins’ Roy Orbison and the Traveling Wilburys Experience will take you on a journey through the story of the Wilburys. With expert narrative and big screen action, this 34th Anniversary Special on Thursday July 14 is unmissable! With tributes to Jeff Lynne, George Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison and Bob Dylan – all the Traveling Wilbury hits and classics are performed in the show including Handle with Care, End of the Line, Wilbury Twist, Heading for the Light, Tweeter and the Monkey Man, Last Night and many more! Call the box office on 01733 265705 or visit www.cresset.co.uk
RHYTHM OF THE DANCE Enjoy the 21st Anniversary tour of Rhythm of the Dance, over five million fans across fifty countries already have! This dance and music extravaganza comes to the Key Theatre on Sunday July 17 and contains a wealth of Irish talent. It’s an exciting 2-hour trip through hundreds of years of Irish dance and music featuring 22 awardwinning World & Irish dance champions with 25 dazzling costume changes. Experience flailing fiddles, flutes, and inspiring dances along with live vocalists, all complimented by a top live Irish trad band of multiinstrumentalist musicians and a sensational sound and light show as seen on TV from China to California, from Siberia to Sydney. For tickets call 01733 852992 or visit their website on www.keytheatrepeterborough.com
GO NOW! THE MUSIC OF THE MOODY BLUES GO NOW! The Music of The Moody Blues is a night out at the Key Theatre when fans can experience this timeless music live, in a tribute to the greatest classic rock band of a generation on Saturday July 2. Gordy Marshall toured and recorded with The Moody Blues for twentyfive years. Together with Mick Wilson (lead singer of 10CC for twenty years) they present a super-group of world class musicians, singers and songwriters and meticulously recreate the elegance of a Moody Blues Concert. In this show, all the classic hits are celebrated, including Nights in White Satin, Go Now, Tuesday Afternoon, Legend of a Mind (Timothy Leary’s Dead), I Know You’re Out There Somewhere, Question, Isn’t Life Strange, plus Forever Autumn and a show-stealing rendition of Eve of the War from Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds. For tickets call 01733 852992 or visit their website on www.keytheatrepeterborough.com
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Events Then there’s a chance to enjoy some medieval fun at their Knights & Princesses event on August 20 – 21. The children can learn how to be a knight at knight school, there’ll be visits from princesses, crafting, games and plenty more fun over the weekend.
SUMMER AT SACREWELL LRO SHOW COMING SOON Whether you’ve got a Landy or want one, or indeed just like watching these beasts show what they can do on the hardest terrain, the LRO Show has it all. LRO's workshop writer Martin Domoney and Britpart's spannerman Steve Grant promise some new demons for this year’s show. Last year the guys showed visitors a range of upgrades on the much-abused Discovery 2, making it off-road ready in the LRO & Britpart Workshop Theatre on the LRO stand.
This great event rolls into the East of England Showground on September 10 and 11 and it’s packed with amazing displays, entertainment. It’s the UK’s biggest and best Land Rover Show with leading Land Rover specialists, parts and accessory traders offering everything you could possibly need for your Land Rover: from elusive spares to tools, expedition kit and adventure tours.
The action doesn’t stop when the sun sets though, there’ll be plenty of entertainment in the Live Action Arena with a spectacular Saturday night show with lasers, lights and of course plenty of Land Rover action! Sit in the grandstand and prepare to be wowed as some of the stars of the day's action come out to play one more time. Once the main arena excitement is finished head over to the Atrium to watch a live band. Admission is: Adult £16, Child 516 £8, Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) £40 and camping is from £55. www.lroshow.com
At the centre of the LRO Show is the new look Live Action Arena, where you’ll see the best action on the Land Rover Show calendar. Expect an even tougher course with steep climbs, descents, jumps and a few surprises and a special night time show on Saturday evening.
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Peterborough’s great heritage farming and visitor attraction, Sacrewell, is always a brilliant place to head to with all the family but during the summer there are some extra special events to look forward to. Don’t miss the Teddy Bears Picnic on August 6 and 7 when there’ll be lots to enjoy over the weekend. There’ll be an outdoor cinema, crafting, picnics with your favourite teddy bears and much, much more.
Sacrewell is part of The William Scott Abbott Trust and is such a good day out in Peterborough it’s well worth a trip. There are some fantastic outdoor play areas, as well as all the farming heritage to enjoy, the watermill and of course animals to see including a filly Suffolk Punch foal – one of their rare breeds. There’s a café on site plus a farm shop and gifts, and an artisan courtyard where you can visit Djibo art gallery, buy handmade chocolates and Nene Valley Spirits for some craft gin. Sacrewell is located just off the A47 near Wansford, Peterborough, PE8 6HJ. Tel: 01780 782254. www.sacrewell.org.uk
DEEPINGS RAFT RACE This summer's event season sees the welcome return of a real favourite – the ever-popular Deepings Raft Race. After a 2-year hiatus the Deepings Raft Race takes to the water again on Sunday August 7 and the theme this year is – Back to the 80’s. This one is always such good fun for all the family and a real summer highlight including a free to enter family fun day with a funfair and a huge variety of stalls stretching from Bridge Street, Deeping St James through to the Town Centre in Market Deeping. The main attraction of course is around 40 rafts decorated to match the year’s theme racing up the river with most of the crew and many spectators in fancy dress. It’s a great day out and raises thousands for good causes. There are six race categories – visit their website for more information and details on how to enter a team at www.deepingsraftrace.co.uk or visit their Facebook Page, Deepings Raft Race.
Events PETERBOROUGH PRIDE
FOOTBALL VS CANCER CELEBRITY CHARITY MATCH Peterborough Sports Football Club on Lincoln Road hosts a very special match on Saturday July 9. The Football Vs Cancer Celebrity Charity Match will kick off at 1pm and features loads of well known names all helping raise money for charity. This event’s sponsored by Target HR and the Bee Arena and they’re looking forward to welcoming a range of guests for the match including Neil Razor Ruddock, local legend Jodie Bartle who plays for Celtic Ladies FC, actor Phil Daniels (Quadrophenia), Marcus Gayle, Paul Canonville, Colin Hendry plus many more celeb’s that will be a surprise on the day! It’s more good news for the club. Peterborough Sports FC which is based on Lincoln Road (just behind Thistlemoor Road doctors) chairman Grant Biddle and vice chairman Paul Venters and Jimmy Dean, the football team manager for 7 years, are celebrating promotion to the National League North Step 2 for the coming season. The club also boasts a fantastic bar and clubhouse, The Turbines Tavern, so you’ll be able to enjoy a pint or two as well as the football action – and who knows which of the celebs you might bump into. Operations manager Dal Hicksey and volunteer Gemma have been working hard to pull it all together.
Summer means Pride celebrations across the country and we’re pleased to see that Peterborough’s popular event is back – but is being held a little later than previous years. on Oundle Road for a Pride Picnic on Saturday June 18 from 2pm, it’s open to all but remember to take your own food and refreshments. That’s followed by Pride Bingo at The Chalkboard with Teddi The Drag Queen, from 6.30pm. There are regular Tuesday nights (Tuesgays) at Liberation on New Road and on Tuesday June 14 it’s a Pride special from 10pm. We caught up with Teddi the Drag Queen who told ESP – “Peterborough Pride will return on Saturday August 20 all day. There will be a street parade and we are so excited for everyone to get involved. “We are starting to see lots of Pride takeovers or nights, which is wonderful and there is a general switch in how people are talking.
On Saturday June 25 it’s Peterborough Pride’s Got Talent hosted by Filthy Gorgeous, Haus of Queerio, from 8pm at The Queens Head in the city centre. Then on Tuesday June 28 it’s Cinema Night - Inclusive Peterborough, from 7.30pm at Showcase Cinema de Lux.
CLASSIC IBIZA AT BURGHLEY HOUSE If you want the holiday vibe but not the queues, make sure you get your tickets for a trip to the White Isle – well as good as – with Classic Ibiza at Burghley Park. This open-air celebration of Ibiza inspired house music is making its much-awaited return to Stamford on Saturday July 30. ESP went along to last year’s event and we can thoroughly recommend it. The four-hour show starts with a chill-out DJ set performed by former Pacha and Ministry of Sound resident, Jose Luis. The Urban Soul Orchestra (USO) and Miss Mavrik then take to the stage for the San Miguel Sundowner Set. Mavrik then performs her very own House DJ Set, before she’s re-joined on stage by USO for the dance set and amazing laser light show. They’ve got some great new tracks on the set list, so get ready to party. Five of the 15 new tracks in the set were chosen by Classic Ibiza’s 28,000 Facebook followers. They are: Toca’s Miracle, Fragma; Dreamer, Livin’ Joy; Waiting All Night, Rudimental; (I Wanna Give You) Devotion, Nomad; and Push The Feeling On, Nightcrawlers.
“Please support the various events, donate money and fly your flag!”
In addition to USO’s awe-inspiring performance, Classic Ibiza also includes DJ sets from Goldierocks and Jose Luis.
It’s been positive to see more local venues hosting LGBTQIA+ friendly nights including The Ostrich Inn on North Street in Peterborough which holds regular nights called Embrace with the next ones on Thursday July 14, August 11 and September 1 from 8pm.
Jose Luis says – “I’m bringing a whole new vibe for ‘22. The Afro-Latin sound is well and truly back in Ibiza, so I’m feeling in my zone. Expect a fresh mix of floor-fillers and new classics, all thrown into my laid back, mash-up style!”
While the main Peterborough Pride event isn’t till August, there are mini pride events to mark LGBTQIA+ Pride month in June and beyond so keep an eye on the Peterborough Pride Facebook page for all the latest. Pop over to The Green Backyard
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All proceeds from the celebrity match are being donated to Stamford based charity Anna’s Hope which supports children with brain tumours. So don’t miss out, get in touch with Dal at The Turbines Tavern on 07404 313032 to buy tickets for this amazing event or to discuss booking the Tavern for private events.
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For tickets and more information visit www.classicibiza.co.uk
Pep Cipriano
Man About Town ESP’s longest serving columnist has championed Peterborough in his passionate trademark way for more than 20 years.
POSH TRUST SEEKING NEW MEMBERS
I’m confessing to not knowing enough about the Peterborough United Foundation but want to learn more, as I’m considering becoming a trustee. The foundation wants to hear from people of different backgrounds, with diverse experiences and skillsets, to join the board and give a little time, expertise and advice to help support the football club’s charitable ambitions. During the pandemic the foundation helped with the delivery of food parcels to vulnerable children. It also hosts holiday clubs for children and gives opportunities to young people in communities that can’t readily access football. In addition, it works alongside Kidney Research and the British Heart Foundation and also supports men with health issues that we sometimes find difficult to talk about. To find out more, contact foundation chair Andy Palmer on 07949 571173 or email andrew@cambsdeaf.org
TOM CRUISES TO TOP SPOT BIDDING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE I’m going to sum up the next few paragraphs in one word: Thanks.
In May I was appointed to a brandnew role with the responsibility of delivering a five-year plan to improve our city centre and its surrounding areas. Peterborough Positive is the city’s Business Improvement District (BID). It’s the most exciting initiative developed by the local business community in recent years, representing more than 400 companies and organisations. It’s focused on delivering an ambitious business plan to transform the city centre by improving experiences, standards and adding value for everyone. The BID aims to make the city centre a cleaner, safer and more welcoming place, raising its profile nationally with new, diverse and prestigious events and exciting marketing campaigns. And I’m the man to help make all this happen. But I can’t do it without all your support. I’ve been overwhelmed with congratulatory messages and offers of help. I’m so very grateful and long may it continue, as I set about delivering on the agreed challenging objectives. The success of the BID depends on all of us having an optimistic and ‘yes we can’ attitude of what we all know is going to be a testing journey. All I ask is that you continue to back what we’re trying to achieve and celebrate our wins with me. Together we can make a positive difference.
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A poll by Showcase Cinemas has crowned Top Gun as the UK’s favourite Tom Cruise movie of all time. So, get this, I’ve never seen the film. Nor have I seen Mission Impossible, War of The Worlds or Jack Reacher. I can’t put my finger on it but I just can’t warm to Tom as an actor. Controversial I know. I fact, my only interest in Tom Cruise is his ex-wife Nicole Kidman (yum). Oddly enough, I’ve seen all her films. And I’ve seen her jogging in Central Park (the NYC one) too. I waved, she smiled and I gave one of her security guards my number. She never did call, only because my 8s sometimes look like 9s when I scribble my number down so quickly, I felt rushed…
WHIPPING OUT SOMETHING TO GOBBLE Research commissioned by Peperami has revealed the strangest places we like to snack. One in 20 of us have paused for a nibble when having sex, which actually doesn’t surprise me. But what I can’t understand, or even picture, is that one in six adults have gobbled snacks while on the toilet. Why does a Walnut Whip suddenly spring to mind…?
Over at Nene Park, the Peterborough Celebrates Festival was being held for the first time but you wouldn’t know it. The range of entertainment laid on and the activities for children couldn’t have been better. This festival might be the start of something really big in our city and I can’t wait to see how organisers are going to take it to another level next year. And then there was the ever-vibrant Yaxley Festival. This established event is still as popular as it was when we first saw it nine years ago and something tells me year 10 is going to be an extra special one.
BRING ON THE NEXT FESTIVALS! In May the people of Peterborough were given the choice of attending three festivals on the same weekend and not many cities in the UK could boast this same offering.
And there aren’t many cities that can boast the same road infrastructure as ours either, which meant I could spend a few hours at all three, all in one day. All three were excellent. The MCN show at the Peterborough Arena was the best there’s ever been. It was the busiest I’ve seen it and the variety of exhibitors and things to do was plentiful for motorcycle fans and families alike.
There are still plenty more festivals and events to enjoy now that summer’s in full swing and you can check out what’s on when, on our website www.espmag.co.uk. But two festivals I just have to mention are the Peterborough Beer Festival on August 23-27 and the Italian Festival on September 18. Both are ingrained into the city’s festival fabric having been established for years. The Beer Festival never fails to disappoint, it does what it says on the beer glass and usually ends up being the social event of the year for so many of us.
According to DrivingExperience.com loved up Brits are spending their final moments of single life behind the wheel of a supercar – together. Their booking data shows brides and grooms to-be are not wedded to the idea of traditional stag and hen parties. The company’s Double Supercar Blast for Two accounts for half of all sales, as couples zoom around a racetrack in supercars. Now, when you think about all the things that wind you up about your loving partner, driving habits is usually a big one. So, why would anyone of sane mind on the eve of their married life want to spend time behind a wheel together? Seriously, I’d have more fun licking a battery.
The Italian Festival is one of those must-go to celebrations in Cathedral Square. You’re guaranteed to eat well that’s for sure with enough pizza, pasta and pastries to feed every citizen of Peterborough. Then there’s the homemade wine, Limoncello, Peroni and Prosecco. Throw in live music and dance and there’s really no other atmosphere like it.
LIKE A HOUNDOG ON HEAT
I do get a tad excited this time of year with me being a petrol head and the proud owner of cars and bikes. I’m going to car shows up and down the region and I’ve made excuses to turn down wedding invites and dates, because I’d rather be spending the day poking around old cars and talking to their owners. The Classic Wheels show at Rutland County Showground in May was a cracker. This event debuted last year and once again didn’t fail to impress. I only hope that Peterborough will one day resurrect the classic car show I was one of the organisers of on the Embankment, as it attracted hundreds of visitors to the city and many for the first time. One of my favourite cars at the Classic Wheels show was Dave Cunningham’s delightful Renault 4 that I’m photographed next to (the Alfa GTV next to it was a bit special too). Dave likes to get his Renault to as many local shows as possible and we’ve still got Baston, Stamford and Maxey coming up to mention a few. The other main reason for why the Rutland show is such a success is because The Houndogs play at it. These guys just get better and better. They’ve been performing for 26 years and still have the same spirit and energy they’ve always had. But what continues to impress me about The Houndogs is they’re three regular, grounded and humble brothers who still have their feet planted firmly on the ground. They’ve always got time for their fans and always make time to listen to me eulogising about them! Check out where they’re playing next and trust me you won’t be disappointed www.thehoundogs.co.uk/giglist
DRIVING MISS CRAZY?
CAUGHT IN THE ACT!
way through Kelly is munching her “Our ESP food reviewer fits her!” still et jack ish styl very Peterborough and her
MY WORD OF THE MONTH:
HOLIDAY
So, who’s going abroad this summer? Please take me with you! It’s been three years for most of us and here’s what I miss: setting my alarm for 3am, having an airport beer at 7am, smelly aeroplane toilets, the pilot announcing ‘there might be a few bumps along the way’, which means turbulence is going to rip the plane in half, watered down hotel welcome drinks, tipping your annual salary in a fortnight, cheap toilet roll, roaming charges and that couple from Bolton (usually called Karen and Dave) who want to go to dinner and on trips with you. I love holidays.
CIAOS OUT! Phil - thanks for helping me decide Ravsi - call again brother Mikey - when’s the get-together planned for us all?! Miss H - check you’re not due for an oil change Hamza and John - must be pancetta time again! Tim - I’m ready for lunch please
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Roar-some Summer Ahead!
This summer is going to be Dino-mite in Peterborough as we travel back to prehistoric times with dinosaurs at every turn! One thing’s for certain if you’re a fan of Jurassic Park or fancy yourself as a paleontologist there are some roar-some events on the way.
The spectacular Natural History Museum’s touring exhibition, T. rex: The Killer Question will take over the city’s iconic building from July 18 – September 3. This world class exhibition has nine roaring and moving animatronic dinosaurs of various sizes, including a three-quarter size T. rex. A 12-metre-long static model of a T. rex and a life-size T. rex skeleton will also be on show, facing each other across the Cathedral transepts.
agile Sauronitholestes, to the savage Dromaeosaurus and the plant-eating Tenontosaurus. Bones and fossils will also be on display, to see what they can tell us about T. rex. Tickets are available via the Cathedral’s website www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/t.rex or by calling Ticket Source on 0333 666 3366 during office hours an (additional £1.80 fee applies).
It poses the killer question: Was T. rex a ferocious hunter or a mere scavenger? In the exhibition you’ll be able to study the behaviour of several different dinosaur species, from the small and
Extinction Exhibition at Peterborough Museum You can follow up your encounter with T. rex by heading over to the Extinction exhibition at Peterborough Museum.
This exhibition covers the demise of the dinosaurs and marine reptiles, death of the ice age mammoths and the impact of humans on the dodo. Climate change, asteroids and human action have all been recognised as contributing to past and current extinctions. Highlights of the exhibition will include an almost complete plesiosaur excavated from the local Must Farm brick pit, which will be on display for the first time since its discovery in 2016. Get up close to bones from the ice age collections including the woolly rhino and mammoth, and step into nature with the Museum’s natural history collections. Find out more on www.peterboroughmuseum.org.uk
Dinosaurs on stage Dinosaurs will be brought to life in a different way in two fantastic stage shows coming to Peterborough theatres.
Jurassic Live
First up it’s Jurassic Live at The Cresset on August 18 and 19 – a thrilling new fun, educational and interactive stage show, taking you on an adventure with dinosaur rangers throughout the Jurassic zoo on the hunt for a missing dinosaur. Along the way you’ll meet and learn about dinosaurs from the Cretaceous and Jurassic eras including the Stegosaurus, Apatosaurus, Velociraptor, Triceratops and even the mighty T-Rex, one of the largest in Europe! Jurassic Live have the widest variety of dinosaur puppets, dinosaur species and costumes available in the UK containing ground-breaking new technology. They’re super realistic with blinking eyes, moving mouths, and fully functioning and moving bodies. Plus there’s an amazing team of professional actors, and advanced puppeteers who operate the dinosaurs from within and an awardwinning props department creating an amazing Jurassic experience for all. For tickets call the box office on 01733 265705 or visit www.cresset.co.uk
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Dinosaur Adventure Live
There are more dinosaur thrills when the New Theatre brings us Dinosaur Adventure Live on Monday August 22. Journey to a world of living, breathing, life-like dinosaurs. Walk through the Jurassic era on an unforgettable interactive experience as they introduce you to some of the most incredible species ever to have lived on Earth. Feel the excitement of meeting real life-like dinosaurs face-to-face and hearing the tremendous roar of a T-Rex. Learn their history and even feed them but watch out – you could be on the menu! This awe-inspiring stage show captivates both young and young at heart, immersing audiences in an enthralling and realistic world of dinosaurs. You won’t want to miss this adventure of a lifetime, so hold onto you hats as this show will blow you away! To book tickets call the box office on 01733 852992 or visit www.newtheatre-peterborough.com
Photos: Natural History Museum
Our first prehistoric close encounter will be the amazing animatronic T. rex inside Peterborough Cathedral and we can’t wait for this one!
Let’s see a show… outdoors! There’s nothing quite like an outdoor setting to bring theatre to life in a fresh way and there’s plenty to choose from in Peterborough this summer. Shakespeare’s plays seem to particularly suit outdoor staging but family shows are a great way to introduce the kids to the theatre. So whether it’s comedy or tragedy, an adventure in the jungle or down the rabbit hole, one of these outdoor theatre productions will have your name on it.
KD Theatre's exciting and playful take on the tale features a professional cast of energetic performers, catchy new songs and lots of humour that will entertain the whole family. Don’t be late for this very important date!
Live in the Cloisters This summer you can take all the family to enjoy theatre shows in the open air at Peterborough Cathedral. There’s a great selection of professional performances outside in the Live in the Cloisters series running throughout July and into August. It’s an ideal spot on a sheltered grassy lawn surrounded by the ancient stone walls of former monastic buildings. The Jungle Book – July 30 (Afternoon) DOT Productions return with their own adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Join Mowgli as Bagheera and Baloo help him on his journey through the jungle back to the man-village. Watch as they encounter the monkeys, run from Shere Khan the tiger and get hypnotised by Kaa the snake . Pygmalion – July 30 (Evening)
MASK Theatre – Romeo and Juliet We all love to head to Ferry Meadows in the summer but this July it will provide a fantastic backdrop for a story of star-crossed lovers and gang rivalries. Peterborough Mask Theatre, well-known for their vibrant and innovative productions, bring Shakespeare’s classic tragedy Romeo and Juliet to life in the Park. They had great reviews of their previous outdoor production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the cathedral and this one’s expected to be another fantastic performance.
A Midsummer Night's Dream – July 14
In the evening DOT Productions are back again with one for the grown-ups – George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion.
Quantum presents an enchanting and brilliantly funny production of William Shakespeare’s most popular comedy. It’s a night of mischief, fairies and fun in A Midsummer Night’s Dream in this outdoor performance suitable for all ages.
Could a Cockney Flower girl really be transformed into a Fair Lady? Brought to the stage by a cast of five actors and DOT’s unmistakable entertaining style this is not to be missed.
One of the longest established outdoor touring companies, Quantum Theatre produces original work and adaptations of the classics into theatres, outdoor venues and schools throughout the UK and Ireland.
The Three Musketeers – August 19
Young D’Artagnan comes to the big city with one aim: to follow in his father’s footsteps and become one of the King’s Musketeers. Expect an incredible mix of amazing adventure, magical music, comical characters and swashbuckling sword fights.
The cast are drawn from across the city and even further afield and co-director Hannah Drury says they’re giving it a modern twist. “Everyone knows the story, so the challenge is how can we tell it in a new and exciting way? The themes are timeless, and we’ve kept things fresh by bringing the set, costumes and sound bang up to date. These characters should be recognisable and relatable. You won’t find any doublets or breeches here!” Romeo and Juliet will be performed at Ferry Meadows in Nene Park, Peterborough from July 6 – 9, nightly at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. For tickets visit www.masktheatre.co.uk
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It’s all for one and one for all when Boxtree Productions present this outdoor performance of the family friendly musical, The Three Musketeers.
All shows will take place whatever the weather and tickets range in price from around £10 for a child to £15 for adults. For some shows special prices are available for families or groups of four. Alice in Wonderland – July 28 Join Alice down the rabbit hole in her magical adventures through Wonderland in this brandnew open-air adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s family favourite.
For full details please visit: www.peterboroughcathedral.org.uk/live-cloisters-22.aspx
Outdoor Theatre at Tolethorpe Hall
Historic Tolethorpe Hall near Stamford is well known for its excellent annual theatre season where the performance takes place on a wonderful outdoor stage while you’re seated, theatre style, safely under a huge canopy. Stamford Shakespeare Company aren’t just bringing us tales from the Bard though, this year’s line-up includes Agatha Christie’s comedy whodunnit Spider’s Web, Noel Coward’s wonderful Hay Fever and William Golding’s exhilarating Lord of the Flies as well as Romeo and Juliet. It will be wonderful to see this talented team return for a summer run with shows changing each week from June until August 27. In Romeo and Juliet, this production of Shakespeare’s famous love story sees the cast transforming from modern day tourists in Verona to the familiar characters of Shakespeare’s play. After a two year wait, the Company is determined to produce a top-class show, filled with passion, bloody revenge, bawdy comedy and thrilling swordplay. Hay Fever is Noel Coward's wonderful comedy play set in the 1920s. David Bliss, a novelist, and his wife Judith, a retired actress, are hoping for a relaxing weekend in the country with some guests. However, unbeknownst to them, their high-spirited children, Simon and Sorel, have invited guests of their own. A houseful of drama waits to be ignited as misunderstandings and tempers flare in this hilarious comedy. Spider’s Web by Agatha Christie is a comedy whodunnit from the ‘Queen of Crime’. Clarissa Hailsham-Brown, wife of a diplomat, is adept at spinning tales of adventure, but when a murder takes place in her drawing room she finds real life drama much harder to cope with. Following its postponement in 2020, Tolethorpe Youth Drama Theatre Makers finally get to bring to life the modern classic, Lord of the Flies by William Golding. This powerful story of a group of schoolchildren’s abandonment on a desert island sees them descend into a savage fight for survival. Stamford Shakespeare Company’s annual season of plays have been described by The Sunday Times as ‘One of the finest things to do this summer’ and The Stage as ‘One of England’s premier alfresco venues’. For tickets call the box office 01780 756133 or visit www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk
We offer a varied range of services from family portraits and weddings to gigs and corporate events. Requests can be taken for bespoke shoots and digital art shoots along with Photoshop editing, recolouring, recovering details or repairing old photos and images.
Beer we go again...
"I'm sorry if I ever took you for granted. I've missed you and I can't wait to see you again!" My open-letter to the Peterborough Beer Festival.
If you've never been before and therefore don't know what you've been missing, you may be surprised to hear that the Peterborough Beer Festival is the perfect outing for all the family – with lunchtime or early evening being the ideal time to get a taste of the easy going, friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages. You can even bring your dog – on a lead, of course. Your own picnic is also allowed or simply make the most of the large selection of food vendors on site. Even soft drinks are permitted... just NOT your own alcohol given the nature of the event. The fairground at the back of the festival really is the icing on the cake for those looking for fun filled days.
That's right, after a two year hiatus, the long awaited return of our city's biggest social event is now within arm’s reach. The popular five day event showcases the best real ale, real cider, key keg beer, wine and gin from the UK, all kept in tip-top condition under giant marquees by their team of cellar experts. It's an annual event I've always looked forward to and I can't wait to step foot on the Embankment once again for the 43rd CAMRA Beer Festival in Peterborough. You can’t beat meeting up with friends, trying out ‘a few’ of the 400 draught real ales on offer, whilst listening to live music. Let's hope there's enough money left over in the budget for some sunshine!
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at last! Loud and Live at Peterborough Beer Festival One of the other main attractions at the festival, aside from the brews are the tunes, and as ever there’ll be some amazing live music each day. You can’t beat singing along with a pint in your hand soaking up the atmosphere in the live music tent. The line-up already includes Stacey’s Open Mic session on the Tuesday at 7.30pm – a great opportunity for up-and-coming performers to play to a big crowd. The ever popular Groove Cartell take to the stage midweek, followed by Last Minute Brigade and The Expletives both of which are sure to guarantee the Thursday night is loud and lively! Friday sees the Palmy Ukelele Band kick things off at 3pm, with 23 Reasons taking the stage at 7.30pm and Revolver closing the night at 9pm. Saturday has Another Girl Another Planet live at 7.30pm with the Motor City Vipers taking the main slot at 9pm with some soul classics.
ESP has always been a huge supporter of this event (I wonder why?!) and we’ll be back to snap you all out having a great time in your crazy hats and outfits, on your hen and stag dos, birthday get togethers and out with your mates at Peterborough’s biggest social. The organisers aim to cater for everyone, so gluten-free, vegan, low-alcohol and alcohol-free options are available across the festival and identified in the festival programme. Plus, of course, there’s a variety of food to choose from when you get the inevitable craving for chips, noodles, crisps… For those of you who prefer things a little fruitier, they have a great selection of British perry, cider, wine and gin… and some soft drinks too. There really is something for everyone so I can't wait to see you all for a well overdue catch-up… "Cheers!" Mikey Clarke Website www.pborobeerfest.camra.org.uk Facebook page: www.facebook.com/PeterboroughBeerFestival Or call 01733 896555
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Sarah Slack
Are you having a laugh?
Sarah’s been a scout for the Edinburgh Comedy Awards for 10 years, has written for Chortle, Funny Women and British Comedy Guide, and has been the panel co-ordinator for the Leicester Comedy Awards.
Comedy at The Cresset
With a local reputation for bringing some of the best names in comedy to the city, The Cresset has some great shows coming up to suit both those looking for the next big thing as well as those wanting to see the latest touring shows from household names. To make sure you’ve scheduled a great night out in your calendar this summer, make sure you don’t miss out by booking tickets for the following shows…
Fri 24 June – Cresset Comedy Club Need a funny Friday night out? The longest-running comedy club in Peterborough features four of the best up-and-coming comedians in an intimate club-style environment. Whilst the line-up is yet to be confirmed, The Cresset’s Comedy Club is the place to be for a chance to see the next big thing on stage.
Thu 15 September – Russell Kane Live Hailed as the The Guardian's No. 1 comedy performance to come out of 2020, this high-octane show from Russell Kane promises to bring belly laughs and a unique take on the two years we’ve just gone through. Best known for having two successful podcasts, Russell was the first ever comedian to receive the two most prestigious comedy awards on Earth in the same year for the same show: the Dave's Edinburgh Comedy Award (formerly The Perrier), and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Award (formerly known as the Barry Award).
Wed 21 September – Jack Dee Join Jack Dee for an evening of entertainment (food and beverages not included) in his new stand-up tour. Star of TV sitcoms Bad Move, Lead Balloon and Josh, Jack also hosts the legendary Radio 4 show I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue. Tickets for all of these shows are now available by calling The Cresset’s box office on 01733 265705, or by visiting www.cresset.co.uk.
Chuckle at The Chalkboard Many local residents will already be aware of The Chalkboard as the latest addition to Peterborough’s café culture, but did you know the popular venue has also been hosting monthly comedy nights? This popular tearoom and bistro on the Embankment, which at the time of writing is currently rated #1 Best Place to Eat in Peterborough thanks to its amazing afternoon tea, has been hosting a monthly comedy club over the past couple of months which supports up-and-coming comedians in a friendly and fashionable setting. In addition to enjoying a fantastic Friday evening of comedy, The Chalkboard also offers punters the opportunity to pre-order one of their famous grazing Chalkboard platters so you can tuck into some tasty food along with a bottle of wine for a great night out guaranteed. If this sounds like your idea of a perfect night out then make sure you get your tickets to one of the city’s hottest comedy clubs by visiting www.thechalkboardpeterborough.co.uk.
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Review - Stewart Lee at the New Theatre Now that the city’s venues have opened their doors and going out is becoming a regular part of our weekends once again, it’s been great to see how many local theatres are continuing to host some exceptional and established comedians for us to enjoy right here in Peterborough. I was fortunate enough to attend a rescheduled gig of Stewart Lee’s Snowflake/Tornado show at the New Theatre, which was not only originally planned for 2021 but Lee just so happened to be my last prelockdown gig all the way back in February 2020. Known for providing anti-comedy and constantly breaking the fourth wall between performer and audience, the entire evening seemed to fly by in an instant due to Lee offering a comedic experience like no other. I’d thoroughly recommend any comedy fans book themselves tickets to any of his future shows, and to keep an eye out for a new television show from Lee coming to TV within the next few months. With many more fantastic comedy gigs coming to the New Theatre over the summer, make sure you keep up to date with their latest shows by visiting their website www.newtheatre-peterborough.com.
Matt Forde: Clowns to the Left of Me, Jokers to the Right Matt Forde (Spitting Image, Have I Got News For You, The Last Leg, The Royal Variety Performance) lashes out right, left and centre. And chucks in some funny voices. Catch him live at The Key Theatre on July 13. There are wallies everywhere and half of them are running the country. The other half are trying to.
Tickets are available on 01733 963557. www.keytheatre-peterborough.com
COMEDY LISTINGS 22 July
17 June
Shaparak Khorsandi – It Was The 90’s
Head to Stamford Corn Exchange to hear more about the decade where Shaparak left an important part of her brain somewhere in a field in Hampshire… From indie discos to unflattering crop tops… a trip down memory lane to the decade where ‘kinky’ was nurse roleplay and whipped cream, and Shaparak found herself flying about London with hope in her heart, a tenner in her pocket and spare knickers in her handbag. How does the decade of binge drinking and walks of shame look now without snakebite and black tinted specs? Tickets are available by calling 01780 766455 or go to www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk
18 June
Chuckl Comedy Club
Taking place every month this summer, Chuckl brings the very best in live comedy to the Key Theatre. The line-up for June so far includes Tanyalee Davis, who’s best known for appearing on Live at the Apollo, The John Bishop Show, and The Last Leg. Joining her will be Nathan Caton, one of the most exciting young comedians on the circuit, alongside Esther Manito, who won Best Show at Leicester Comedy Festival 2021. Tickets are available by visiting www.keytheatrepeterborough.ticketsolve.com.
24 June
Stamford Corn Exchange Comedy Club
Chuckl brings some of the biggest names in comedy to the Theatre Lounge on Broad Street. The lineup includes Tez Ilyas (Live at the Apollo, Man Like Mobeen), Esther Manito (Live at the Apollo, Best Show at Leicester Comedy Festival), David Luck (Yellow Card Comedian of the Year), Ben Norris (Mock the Week). Please note the lineup may be subject to change. Tickets are available on 01780 766455 or visit www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk
29 June
The Iron Horse Comedy Club Funhouse Comedy Club is back at The Iron Horse, Market Deeping and topping the bill is the energetic and unique Matt Stellingwerf, a fast rising star on the international comedy scene. Joining him will be musical comic Micky P Kerr, who’s best known for appearing on Britain’s Got Talent and earned himself a place in the finals, in addition to Scottish funnyman Kevin Daniel and compere Jon Pearson. For tickets visit www.funhousecomedy.co.uk.
Stamford Corn Exchange Comedy Club Chuckl brings you another night of stand-up comedy at the Theatre Lounge on Broad Street. The line-up includes Felicity Ward (Live at the Apollo, Chortle Award Winner), Scott Bennett (Live at the Apollo, Chortle One to Watch 2018 & 2019), Adam Riely (Chortle Comedian to Watch 2017), Alfie Brown (Leicester Comedy Festival Best New Show Finalist, ★★★★★ The List). Make sure you book your tickets early to avoid missing out. Tickets are available on 01780 766455 or visit www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk
1 July
Pint Of Comedy The regular comedy nights at Stamford Arts Theatre continue. Your headliner is Jonathan Elston described as ‘A young comic with incredible talent and natural warmth’ by The Guardian. Also providing the laughs is Sarah Johnson, drawing on her experiences from both the world of entertainment and as a wife and mother, Sarah’s amiable nature and saucy, raucous content is delivered in a charming and confident style. Your MC for the night is Rob Coleman. Tickets are available on 01780 763203 or visit www.stamfordartscentre.com
15 September
Dawn French Live Embarking on a brand new national tour this year, join national treasure Dawn French for an amazing evening of comedy which includes a date at Peterborough’s New Theatre. Promising a night of embarrassing stories and a behind the scenes look at Dawn’s amazing career, don’t miss your chance to see a comedy legend. Tickets are available by visiting their website www.newtheatre-peterborough.com.
16 July
Chuckl Comedy Club Chuckl continues its live comedy at the Key Theatre and the line-up for July so far includes Sarah Keyworth, one of UK comedy’s brightest new talents. Having already been a Funny Women runner-up, back in 2018 Sarah also achieved a nomination for Best Newcomer in the Edinburgh Comedy Awards. Joining her will be Stephen Bailey, who’s best known for appearing on Love Island: Aftersun and The Stand Up Sketch Show on ITV2, in addition to one liner merchant Mark Simmons, who’s previously won the Best Joke of The Fringe award twice in both Edinburgh 2017 & 2019. Tickets are available by visiting www.keytheatrepeterborough.ticketsolve.com.
16 September
Daliso Chaponda Finalist of Britain’s Got Talent and star of BBC Radio 4’s Citizen of Nowhere Daliso Chaponda is back out of the house and on a stage with a new hour of the slickest, sharpest look at life. It’s fair to say that 2020 hadn’t been going to plan for Daliso but he’s been performing online daily to millions of viewers, this is your first chance to see what this master of satire has been cooking up. Tickets are available by visiting www.keytheatrepeterborough.ticketsolve.com.
What’s on… we’ve got it licked! Find out where the laughs are at on www.espmag.co.uk/whats-on www.espmag.co.uk
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italianfestival
If you want to enjoy a taste of La Dolce Vita get ready to celebrate right here in Peterborough. Over the years it has become one of the biggest celebrations of Italian culture in the country. The free event is organised by Peterborough's Italian Community Association and supported by Peterborough City Council. If you love Mediterranean food don’t miss it, but it’s not just about the delicious confectionery, ice-cream and pasta there will be equally delicious classic Italian cars and motorcycles to drool over, as well as scooters, an Italian market, music and much more. Councillor Marco Cereste, chair of the Italian Community Association, said: "The Peterborough Italian Festival is one of the most popular dates in the city centre calendar as there is always so much to see and do. The city has a rich Italian heritage and it is wonderful to see it celebrated so well.”
From gelato to pasta, Ferraris to football this September sees the long awaited return of Peterborough’s fabulous Italian Festival. Peterborough is once again enjoying some wonderful outdoor events but there’s another to look forward to which will round off the summer nicely on Sunday September 18, and when it comes to recreating that fantastic holiday vibe the Italian Festival has it sorted.
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There’s wine making and a Prosecco bar, plus lots of live entertainment from the Guild Hall stage. This year’s entertainment includes Sergio, everyone's favourite Italian singer with all the well known Italian songs. Luke Carey will be singing songs from the famous crooners including Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble and Frankie Valli. Great tunes, food and gelato – count us in! If you love Italian cuisine and culture then you’re in for an absolute treat, so head down and enjoy another fantastic free event right in the heart of the city. The festival runs from 12noon to 5pm.
Food, gifts and advice at new look Visitor Centre
When you head to Nene Park, if you want to know the best walking routes with a buggy, when the mini train is running or the ideal places to spot the wildlife – who are you going to ask? The team at the Visitor Centre, Gift & Farm Shop in Ferry Meadows of course! It’s also the ideal place to head if you need to pick up something for your tea or need the perfect gift… the lake. I watch the boat from the shop window and the people who take the trips always look like they are having the best time. It’s not one to miss.” “We are also where you can hire a mobility scooter or mountain trike for the day and you can renew or pay for a new parking membership with us here at the centre as well.”
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his fantastic green space in Peterborough is a real gem but it’s so vast and there are so many different ways to enjoy it. If you’ve got a question the Visitor Centre, Gift & Farm Shop in Ferry Meadows is the place to head and it’s safe to say they’ve seen and heard, and been asked it all. Manager Ben Gwinnett told ESP the recently refurbished Visitor Centre is the first place to head for all you need to know and buy – “We extended the old visitors centre back into what was the office, creating a new larger open shop floor able to incorporate food, drinks, treats and firm favourites from our old Farm Shop location at Lakeside into the existing centre’s offer of homeware and gifts. This, teamed with the refurbished café next door has created a new complete retail experience to welcome customers at the entrance of Ferry Meadows. “We are still the place to come for information, offering details of what’s going on around the Park day to day, as well as having information about trails, safe use of the Park, providing a key feedback point for visitors and of course offering our ever famous duck food! “I’m not sure I know more about the Park than the wonderful visitors, some of whom have visited regularly since it opened and it’s been a true pleasure to talk to them about how its developing now. However, I do think people could make more of the electric boat rides out on
Nene Park Trust worked with rural retail industry leaders Appetite Me to update the farm shop produce ranges available within the centre, sourcing the very best food and drink items whilst continuing to support local and regional suppliers. You'll find freshly baked bread from Kings Cliffe Bakery, fresh meat and pies from The Peterborough Game Company and chilli sauces and scorching seasonings from Badgers Artisan Foods. There are award winning natural fruit ciders handcrafted in Cambridgeshire by Cranes Drinks, handmade fudge from ethical supplier Fudged Up in Grantham and much more. The product range changes with the seasons, introducing locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables alongside a selection of premium quality fresh lamb, born and reared on the Nene Park Rural Estate. If you struggle to find something nice and unusual to give as a present there are some ideal quality gifts available too for all ages as well as toys and games – everything you need to have a fantastic family day in the Park. The really good news is that all the proceeds made from purchases are reinvested back into Nene Park, helping to maintain and nurture this much loved green space. The Visitor Centre, Gift & Farm Shop is open 7 days a week, with newly extended opening hours from 9am to 6pm. The team looks forward to welcoming you in for a browse soon! Visitor.Centre@neneparktrust.org.uk www.nenepark.org.uk
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KellyJackson
Food & Drink
VINE HOUSE FARM - Lincolnshire breakfast with a view Driving through the Lincolnshire village of Deeping St Nicholas, Vine House Farm Shop and Café isn’t too hard to miss. And I’d highly recommend stopping off for a pitstop, even if it’s not your intended destination! Veggie or vegan? Vine House Farm can accommodate! Most items on the menu are suitable for veggies, plus there’s a vegetarian full English breakfast too. My editor tells me that the lunches and cakes are delicious too, so I’ll definitely be back – perhaps to try the afternoon tea!
The bright and spacious café offers breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and a selection of cakes, which are temptingly displayed on the counter, so you’re covered no matter what time of day you visit or what takes your fancy. After perusing the adjoining farm shop, I decided to treat myself to a spot of breakfast before exploring the gardens. With its buzzing atmosphere, even before 10am on a Sunday, it was obvious that its reputation spreads far and wide across the Peterborough and surrounding area. Luckily, I arrived before the queues started mounting which meant I had my choice of tables and didn’t have to wait too long for my food. I strategically placed myself next to the window overlooking the picturesque wildlife garden and pond – the perfect view to enjoy a lazy Sunday morning breakfast! A varied selection of breakfast items are on the menu, from a full English complete with Lincolnshire sausages, Grasmere Farm bacon, eggs, tomatoes and baked beans with a choice of white or granary toast, to crepe style pancakes topped with an apple blackberry compote or local honey. As someone who prefers a lighter breakfast, I opted for scrambled eggs on granary toast with a pot of tea. Vine House Farm Café uses its own fresh free range eggs, laid by hens in nearby Tallington; the taste was absolutely delicious and creamy – so much so that I went back to the farm shop to buy some eggs to take home.
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On a sunny and warm day you can take your dog and sit outside on the large terraced area next to the pond. Dog bowls are provided to keep fourlegged companions refreshed and once you’re done, your dog can take a walk around the wonderful wildlife garden before jumping back in the car. A family with three dogs sat outside during my visit, despite a heavy breeze and slight chill in the air. I’m always on the lookout for local eateries to take my own dog, and I’ll certainly be heading back with my pooch in tow over the summer months. I also want to try the new picnic tables and outdoor drinks and ice-cream cabin! You can make more of a day of it by joining one of their 2 hours farm walks as well to hear about how the farm is managed with wildlife in mind, spot many species of breeding birds and wildlife and take a walk through the sunflowers during the summer. Just book in online at www.vinehousefarm.co.uk/farm-walk-tickets-2022. If you enjoy your food and wish you could recreate it at home, head to the farm shop and you may be able to take a slice of Vine Farm Café away with you. For more details on Vine House Farm Shop & Café visit www.vinehousefarmshopcafe.co.uk
Former journo Kelly Jackson has lived in Peterborough just over 10 years. She enjoys visiting eateries in and around the city, especially if it’s dog friendly so her canine companion can join in!
The Dragonfly Hotel, Peterborough I did two things for the first time a few weeks back when a friend popped to town for a visit: a walk at Thorpe Meadows (how had I never been here before?), followed by a pitstop at The Dragonfly nearby. The hotel, which overlooks Peterborough’s international rowing course, boasts a charming bar and restaurant that is perfect for a break after a brisk walk. The weather wasn’t at its best on the day of my visit so we decided not to brave the freshness by sitting outside on the terrace, and instead sat on a table directly facing the large windows leading to the terrace. We still got the incredible view of the lake (and rowers practising their technique) while staying warm at the same time! So, on to the food: if you fancy a pub lunch, you’ll be spoiled for choice at the vast menu, offering everything from pizza and burgers to pies and other pub favourites. A selection of sweet treats were displayed at the bar, which tempted us as we ordered a coffee and a hot chocolate. What treats did we have, I hear you ask? Well, a slice of simple yet delicious Victoria Sponge Cake complimented my hot chocolate extremely well, while my companion opted for a Red Velvet Cake to go with her coffee. And you certainly get a slab, too! It was a lovely location to spend a couple of hours putting the world to rights over coffee and cake. What more could we ask for? Sun perhaps, so we could have sat outside on the terrace? We’ll save that for next time. The Dragonfly is based at Thorpe Meadows and the restaurant is open 12 noon until 9pm every day.
Summer Nights at Tap & Tandoor
If you’re searching for a spot to enjoy cocktails in the sun with friends, sample some new tipples or watch live sport in a vibrant location, look no further than Tap & Tandoor. The Peterborough city centre-based Indian gastro pub offers more than just mouth-watering food: did you know it also specialises in craft beer and a menu filled with popular and unique cocktails? With its outdoor beer garden/patio area, it’s a fantastic summer venue for catching some rays with a drink in hand and enjoying their delicious dishes. Compiled by renowned Birmingham-based mixologist Robert Wood, refreshing cocktails range from classics such as Cosmopolitan and Espresso Martini, to quirky flavours with an Indian twist inspired by Indian cuisine. When it comes to craft beers, punters can sample beer sourced from breweries from across the UK and even as far away as Hawaii! Sports fans can also catch the latest live sport at the Tap & Tandoor, which will be showing this year’s highlights on the sporting calendar including the FIFA World Cup and Wimbledon. Tap & Tandoor is open seven days a week. Visit www.tapandtandoor.co.uk to book your table.
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The Coffee Hive - Tropical Heaven in Fletton! As any dog owner will know, finding a café or restaurant that welcomes our canine friends with open arms (or should that be paws) sometime feels like winning the lottery! Especially if said establishment throws open its doors inside and out to four-legged visitors. I stumbled upon one such gem while walking along Fletton Avenue with my dog, Henry, on a rather warm afternoon. With its bright yellow fascia and palm trees and deck chairs beckoning at me from across the road, The Coffee Hive was like chancing upon a tropical mirage in the middle of Peterborough. The dog bowl on the outside decking was a pretty good sign that Henry would indeed be welcome. Entering The Coffee Hive, we were met with admiring comments from a couple of fellow dog lovers drinking coffee on the sofas at the back. Henry led the way to the bar – as if he already knew the way! – and decided to investigate his surroundings while I ordered a cold drink and eyed the sweet treats next to the till (note: yes, I did end up buying one – a rather delicious Rocky Road slice). The owner was very friendly, giving Henry an appreciative stroke as he attempted to go behind the bar. A lovely young helper also made sure the dog bowl outside was topped up with fresh water. My suggestion about having dog treats available to buy was met with wonder, so perhaps watch this space? The smell of pizza wafted in the air as I tucked into my Rocky Road; on Fridays The Coffee Hive serves pizza from 5.30 – 9pm, with cocktails and other alcoholic beverages replacing coffee to tie in with its late closing of 11pm. Coffee house by day, pizza house by Friday night! What more could you want? The Coffee Hive in Fletton is open seven days a week: 9am – 4pm Monday – Thursday; 9am – 11pm Friday; 10am – 5pm Saturday; 10am - 3pm Sunday. 24
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The Pizza Parlour & Music Café Until recently, my only taste of the Pizza Parlour in Peterborough’s Cowgate was a takeaway during the blistering heat of lockdown number 1. But not any longer! An email had winged its way into my inbox (somehow escaping going straight into oblivion in the junk folder) offering me a free bottle of Prosecco with any main meal to celebrate my birthday. How could I refuse? It was a good excuse to find out whether the food inside the restaurant was just as moorish and high quality as the takeaway pizza I’d had two years ago – safe to say, I wasn’t disappointed. The Pizza Parlour may be small, but it certainly packs a punch: a laid-back ambience, evocative music transporting you to decades past, flavoursome Italian food, and a unique wallpaper of iconic music legends sitting opposite vintage posters. I tucked into a whole pizza – a La Napoletana all to myself (it was my birthday, so half a pizza accompanied by salad was never going to make the cut) – with Kurt Cobain peering over my shoulder from the wall behind, and the catchy sound of Foreigner in the background. The pizza boasted a crisp-perfect thin base, having been cooked in a wood fired pizza oven, overflowing with an abundance of toppings. And it came already sliced – a sure winner! As many of you will know, another highlight of the Pizza Parlour is its wide selection of cocktails. Even better, it was two cocktails for £7 – well, you need a beverage or two to wash down the pizza, right? I can recommend the Passion Nut and Gin Fizz. The best-tasting pizza in town? The jury’s out but I know my first choice for pizza in Peterborough.
Oodles of Flavour is Heading to Town!
Get ready, Peterborough – your tastebuds will soon be tickling with the aromas of Indo-Chinese cuisine! Family-run business Oodles has announced it’s set to open its 33rd branch in Bridge Street this summer, bringing its freshly cooked IndoChinese dishes, open live kitchens and relaxed atmosphere to town. Although we don’t yet have an official date, the fast food franchise’s previous launches have historically proven to be hugely popular with residents, with discounted rates on dishes and the chance to rub shoulders (or should that be ankles) with Oodles’ famous stilt walking mascot! A date for your diary once D-Day is confirmed, for sure. If you haven’t heard of the franchise, Oodles was originally established in Leicester more than 10 years ago by two brothers, who identified a lack of freshly cooked Indo-Chinese food. It’s since gone from strength to strength, with 31 branches spread across the UK, and a further 15 new branches are in the pipeline for 2022 as part of an expansion. Aren’t we lucky that Peterborough is on the list? Keep your eyes peeled over the coming weeks for more details on the grand opening. In the meantime, you can check out their mouth-watering menu at www.oodleschinese.com, and start deciding what you’re going to have for your first Oodles meal.
Wheat or Weisse The light flavour and high effervescence that a wheat beer offers makes it a popular summer beer. Wheat beers are typically cloudy, and the flavours you should expect are banana, cloves with a slight hoppy bitterness. Belgian Blonde The light and simplistic taste that a blonde ale offers is one of the reasons why it has become one of the classic summer beer styles. For an easy-drinking ale try the classic Bruges Zot Blonde, La Chouffe or St Feuillien.
Peterborough’s bottle shop, Bottle & Board on Wentworth Street is a treasure trove of unusual brews coupled with some quality advice. Gina and Eddie Baines are experts in their field and always on hand to help you find the perfect brew for you to take home, even down to what food it goes well with.
Lager You can never go wrong with a cold, crisp lager, if all you want is to quench your thirst there are some great German Pilsners, Helles, and Lagers available. White Beers Belgian-style Witbier are spiced with coriander and orange peel. A style that dates back hundreds of years, it fell into relative obscurity until it was revived by Belgian brewer Pierre Celis in the 1960s. Some examples available at Bottle and Board,
Vedett White, Blanche de Bruxelle, or Cigar City Frost Proof. Radler Radler beer is an ideal low alcohol summer beer, common in Germany it consists of either a wheat beer or lager and fruit juice mixture. This offers the perfect combination of sweet and bitter for every taste bud. A very popular radler is Schoffenhoffer Grapefruit, Stiegl Grapefruit most German breweries will produce a radler during the summer months. Fruit Beers Fruit Belgian beers cannot be beaten. That fresh, fruity taste with hints of sweetness and each fruit determining the colour, aroma, and taste. Offering, cherry beer (Kriek), raspberry (Framboise), peach, coconut, we have something for everyone, most of these beers are low in strength and high in flavour. We have a selection available – the Boon Kriek is one we would definitely recommend. Other breweries available are Lindeman’s, Timmermans and Mongozo. For a long cool summer drink try Liefmans on the rocks!
Warm weather means it’s time to sit back, kick up your legs and enjoy your favourite summer beer. Here’s Bottle & Board’s Guide to Summer Beers… IPA IPAs are traditionally known for their bold hop aroma, high bitterness, citrus and piney notes and flavours. They're typically brewed with higher amounts of hops which leads to the high bitterness, and a mid-palate hop flavour.
Try a taste of
SUMMER
at Peterborough’s Bottle Shop in the Beers and ciders you won’t find
supermarket
• Over 170 carefully selected beers and ciders to choose from • Takeaway discount 15% • Personal service and expert advice from Gina and Eddie • Tasting Bar, Special Events, Gift Packs • Charcuterie boards available Friday, Saturdays and Sundays
Bottle and Board 11 Wentworth Street, Peterborough PE1 1DH Tel: 01733 685300
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paparazzi Caught in the act? Brews, Tunes and Video Shoots!
We have such a good time getting out an about in and around Peterborough capturing you all in the act of having a great time and meet some real characters. Over the last few weeks we’ve been covering a range of events and it’s been an eclectic mix pictured by ESP photographer Wayne Bloye. There’s so much good stuff going on and ESP was invited along to cover the promo video shoot for new tribute band Arctic Roll at Club Liberation – read more in our live music section. Staying with the music scene we dropped by one of the Open Mic nights at the Brewery Tap. These monthly nights showcase adiverse range of local talent. Did you know Peterborough has its very own bottle shop? Bottle & Board on Wentworth Street not only stock a vast range of unusual brews to take home that you won’t find on the supermarket shelves, but they also run special tasting events so always keen to enjoy a pint, we popped in.
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Great shows heading to We love a show and it’s so good to be back taking a seat at the theatre again. It’s an exciting summer ahead but The Cresset’s already lining up its usual eclectic mix of entertainment for the autumn, so what do you fancy? A little Sexy Circus or some adult panto, big comedy stars or top tributes perhaps? You can pick up a brochure from July 4 but you can get a sneaky peek online from June 17. We couldn’t resist bringing you some highlights though…
Forbidden Nights: Sexy Circus September 1
Mum’s The Word October 16
Abandon your inhibitions at the door as the talented cast of acrobats, live male vocalists, fire acts, aerial artists and world-renowned circus performers flip and spin across the stage in this high-octane show.
The Mother of all Shows. The stuff nobody tells you about parenthood... until it’s too late.
This fun, sexy and entertaining evening with Forbidden Nights is guaranteed to be a night to remember.
An uplifting, honest, heart-warming show that will have you both roaring with laughter and reaching for the tissues – Mum’s The Word takes you on an emotional ride through pregnancy pitfalls to teenage tantrums.
Genesis Connected September 2
The Psychology of Serial Killers October 18
This great UK tribute show celebrates the music of Genesis alongside the hits of Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins and Mike & The Mechanics. This show has an incredible mix of material, from atmospheric anthems to chart toppers and the biggest hits including Turn It On Again, Sledgehammer, In The Air Tonight and Over My Shoulder.
This will give even the most dedicated true crime fan new insights to the phenomenon of serial homicide. Having previously worked as a Forensics Lecturer in a teaching college, Jennifer Rees has taught criminology, crime scene investigation and forensic psychology in both Further and Higher Education.
Adult Panto: Sinderella September 7
Howard Jones October 23
Starring Ru Paul’s Drag Race legends Detox and Janey Jacke, plus Ibiza Weekender’s David Potts and Adult Panto favourite, Davey Hopper…you’ll have a ball! Get ready for a night at the theatre you won’t forget in a hurry, oh no you won’t!
Hailed by many as an electronic music pioneer, Howard Jones has been a constant presence on the international touring scene for the past three decades. This acoustic show with Nick Beggs and Robin Boult will highlight a fresh take on Howard’s best-known hits and provides a rare opportunity for fans to hear first-hand about the inspiration behind Howard’s beloved material.
Celine - My Heart Will Go On September 16
Sh*t-Faced Shakespeare October 26
Packed with power ballads, experience the ultimate Celine Dion tribute concert as it tours across the UK. My Heart Will Go On is a stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time, featuring January Butler as Celine Dion and an outstanding live band.
The smash-hit, internationally acclaimed, multi sell-out fringe phenomenon is touring the UK with one of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays, Macbeth. Sh*t-Faced Shakespeare is the hilarious combination of an entirely serious adaptation of a Shakespearean classic, with an entirely sh*t-faced cast member. It’s an Elizabethan classic with a very modern twist – what could possibly go wrong?
Visit www.cresset.co.uk for all the details and to book, or call the box office on 01733 265705. 28
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The Cresset this autumn!
YOUNG TALENT WANTED FOR THIS YEAR’S CRESSET PANTO PETER PAN It’s a bit early to mention the ‘C’ word but hey, Christmas panto’s can’t come soon enough for some of us and pulling the show together has to start now, even though we’re in our shorts rather than our Santa hats. The Cresset theatre always tries to encourage young talent and every year local performers get the chance to take the stage with the professional panto cast and be part of a fantastic family show. This year we’ll get to join Peter Pan and Wendy on a stunning adventure to Neverland, with pirates, mermaids, lost boys and of course the wicked Captain Hook, pursued by his ticking crocodile! It’s set to be another great panto from December 15 – 31 and open auditions to join the cast of this year’s pantomime Peter Pan will take place on Saturday Sepetember 3 and Sunday September 4. On the Saturday it’s the auditions for young actors to play the roles of Wendy’s brothers, John and Michael. The roles are written for boys, but the audition is open to any young actor with the ability to play the part as written. You’ll need to register in advance for this one. On the Sunday the hunt for this year’s ensemble begins; The Lost Kids of Neverland (ages 8-11), Tiger’s Cheer Squad (ages 12+) and Captain Hook’s Pirate crew (ages 12+). Roles are available for young dancers, singers and actors, and full information is available on www.cresset.co.uk/pantomime. They’re expecting a big turnout – over 150 auditioned last year, so advance registration is recommended!
EXHIBITION OPENS AS YOUNGSTERS TELL OUR QUEEN’S STORY We know we’ve got some great talent in Peterborough and The Cresset came up with a fantastic way to showcase young performers and celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Well known for their support of performing arts locally The Cresset challenged local school children and performing arts groups to mark the Jubilee by taking part in a special project – Our Queen’s Story – and create a piece of performance art depicting an event from HM The Queen’s life. Fourteen local schools signed up for the project and pupils have their fingers crossed they’ll be among the winners. They could use any form of performing art and participating in the project gave hundreds of children an opportunity to get creative, have fun and to learn more about The Queen’s life. It’ll be great to see what moments they’ve captured and how they chose to perform them when they go online on The Cresset’s website from mid June. We wonder if the famous James Bond scene from the 2012 Olympics might feature? There’s got to be a Corgi in there somewhere, surely?! There’ll be a special VIP winners awards ceremony to celebrate on July 5 with invited guests which also sees the opening of the public exhibition with all the entries showcased on a giant screen at The Cresset for the rest of the month to allow as many people as possible to see them!
Theatre
boxoffice@cresset.co.uk 01733 265705
Events
The project was made possible by £7,300 in funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK. If your child has a passion for performing, The Cresset’s thriving Performing Arts Programme is dedicated to creating and providing opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to explore their talents through various aspects of Performing Arts. It’s co-ordinated by Monique Benoiton-Smith who has a wealth of experience and is an excellent grounding for children and young adults interested in developing their skills, purely because it’s something they’re passionate about or even with a view to pursuing a career in the industry. To find out more visit www.cresset.co.uk/performing-arts
functions@cresset.co.uk 01733 842513
Fayre Spot
fayrespot@cresset.co.uk 01733 842518
To check out what’s on offer at The Cresset and opening times just head to www.cresset.co.uk. Follow us on all the usual socials!
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Karen Devine
Wellbeing
Karen Devine is a Peterborough based Registered Nutritional Therapist, Colonic Hydrotherapist and Naturopath
Hydrate for Health If you’re feeling the heat you might be heading to the fridge more often for a cooling drink, but it’s not just summer time that can make us dehydrated. Many of us are suffering its effects much of the time and don’t even realise, so let’s see how we can hydrate for health…
O
ur body depends on water yet so many people are ‘chronically’ dehydrated which leads to a whole host of health issues you may not be aware of. If we are hydrated well, our body functions better, it keeps everything moving in our digestive system, flushes out waste, our cell energy improves which lessens any fatigue. All cell processes and communication are dependent on good hydration. Water is needed for all chemical processes in our body – your eye that is blinking whilst reading this, or how you are processing these words – all depend on water! Chronic dehydration can play a role in symptoms such as • Fatigue • Insomnia • Stiff joints • Cardiovascular issues • Muscle stiffness/aches • Headaches/migraines • Digestive issues • Irritability • Brain fog • Cravings for addictive foods such as sugar, caffeine, refined carbohydrates etc. • Faster ageing • Dry skin… and much more There are many ways we can become dehydrated. Simply not drinking enough water but also not eating enough raw, high water content foods (fruits and veggies). Eating an excess of concentrated foods (grains, meats etc) as well as our tea/coffee/sugar/alcohol intake. Even sitting in front of electronic devices for long periods of time (heat) can cause dehydration along with sitting for hours in airconditioned offices. Some medications can affect our hydration levels, as well as excess sweating, and mobility issues (avoiding water as it is difficult to move to the toilet when needed). Of course working or sitting out in the sun as well as high summer temperatures are obvious ones. You may be someone who drinks lots of water and still feels dehydrated; this can be due to the type of water and the cellular membrane balance – basically how well the water gets into the cells. Healthy fats (lipids) from our diet (nuts, seeds, avocado, coconut oil etc) are needed to support these membranes which should be
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flexible to allow waste out whilst getting nutrients and water in. Hydrogenated fats, stress, sugar, toxins and more interfere with this membrane which can alter the lipid or fatty membrane which can then become too rigid which can interfere with water balance and block nutrients getting into the cells. Most of the water will be passed out in urine and through the bowels but isn’t getting to the cells.
concentrated foods (proteins, starches etc), you’ll notice the need for more glasses of water.
Drinking good quality water is essential but so too is getting it from high water content fruits and vegetables.
Too much water can interfere with our mineral levels and will therefore create imbalances, it can also be dangerous at too high a level (called hyponatremia). Excess thirst can also be a sign of health issues which need to be checked out.
Nature’s ‘structured’ water that is found in plant foods is the best source of water we can take in, we should be looking to ‘eat’ our water which also delivers the minerals (which holds water in the correct places in the body), vitamins, enzymes, phytonutrients (special nutrients found in plants), amino acids, antioxidants and fibre. Hydrating plant foods include – • Celery • Cucumber • Watermelon and other melons • Juicy pears • Apples • Leafy greens • Berries • Oranges, lemons & limes • Pineapples…. and many more Summer months should be a time we eat higher water content food, however this isn’t always the case as we eat/drink more rolls, meat, alcohol, chips, fizzy drinks and other concentrated foods as we have more BBQ’s, festivals and functions which are dehydrating for our body! When you enjoy a high percentage of raw foods (juices, smoothies, lots of salads, fruits etc), you’ll notice you don’t have a great thirst for drinking lots of glasses of water, this is due to the high levels in the food you’ree taking in from the plants. However, if you go back to more cooked,
How much an individual needs to drink can therefore be difficult to measure due to these variables. You may only need 2-3 small glasses per day even in the summer if you are eating your water, or you may need 1.5-2 litres of water per day if your diet is lacking in natural water, or you’re working in the heat or working out.
Enjoy the summer and remember to ‘eat’ your water too, not just rely on it from the glass! In health, Karen www.karendevine.co.uk
Health &
Wellbeing Make time for you this summer…
It’s been a stressful couple of years for many of us, so it’s great to be able to get back to the things we enjoyed prepandemic, but also to remind ourselves how important it is to make time for the things that make us feel good.
Get your swim on at Peterborough Lido!
Get your gym on with Vivacity
This iconic swimming complex offers three heated outdoor pools – a 50m main pool, teaching pool for children and paddling pool for toddlers. With sunbathing terraces, café, large grass lawn and play area, the Lido is the perfect venue for a leisurely swim or a summer day out. Buy a summer pass for unlimited access over the school summer holidays.
Whether you’re looking to make more time for yourself this summer or you have a specific fitness goal in mind, Vivacity offers flexible gym memberships to suit you. With no contract and no joining fee, it's a great time to start! Another benefit of a Vivacity membership is discounted rates on indoor and outdoor sports at Hampton Leisure Centre and Bushfield Leisure Centre. Team up with family and friends to play badminton, tennis, table tennis, squash, basketball or netball. Knowing what a typical British summer can be like, it’s good to have some indoor options on your doorstep!
The Lido is open all day throughout the summer, plus early birds can enjoy a swim from 7am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays and, new for 2022, there are evening sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Pre-booking recommended at vivacity.org/lido
Choose from four different levels of membership, decide whether you need peak or off-peak access, access to multiple venues, including a choice of venues with a swimming pool. There’s the option to pay monthly or save with an annual membership, by joining with a friend or taking advantage of a reduced V-City membership for 16-22 year olds. All gyms are fully air conditioned with cardio machines, functional training areas and free weights, plus there are over 150 fitness classes each week with everything from Les Mills and Fit Steps to Pilates and yoga. Aqua Fitness If you enjoy the extra motivation of working out in a group, why not try an aqua fitness class at the Lido? Kick start the week with Aqua Zumba on Monday mornings, 9.15 – 10am. A fun but challenging body toning workout in the pool in time to Latin music! Also on Thursday lunchtimes, 12.00 – 12.45pm, Aqua Fit is a high energy aerobic class for all ages and abilities. £5.50 per class or included with a Vivacity Premier or Gold membership. Book online at vivacity.org 32
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Vivacity Premier Fitness over in Hampton has a large café for relaxing after your swim or gym session, offering Fairtrade coffee and a wide range of sweet and savoury options. Look out for regular coffee mornings both here and at the Regional Fitness & Swimming Centre where members can meet the team, give any feedback and socialise with other members.
Join online at vivacity.org or pop into any of the venues.
Great Eastern Run
A great atmosphere and a great sense of achievement – why taking part in this year’s Great Eastern Run and charity 5K Fun Run are the ideal events to get you fit this summer. If you’re looking to get in shape it always helps to have a goal and whether you’re just getting started, looking to improve or really want to set yourself a challenge this event has the lot. The Great Eastern Run half marathon and 5K fun run are returning to the streets of Peterborough on Sunday October 16 so there’s plenty of time to limber up and start training. There’ll be free Get Fit for Great Eastern training sessions to help starting on July 13, just keep an eye on the website and their social media for details. Getting the kids involved is an ideal way to spark their interest in keeping active and the 5K Anna’s Hope Fun Run is a perfect place to start. It’s also good fun and a chance to dress up if you want to and raise vital funds. Several members of the ESP team have taken part in both events over the years. For one of our photographers, Chris Brudenell, it’s been a real journey. It was his first half marathon when he started on a weight loss and fitness campaign, and after completing several since then, this year’s GER event will be the last in his personal challenge. “I never set out to do one let alone ten,” says Chris. “Running is addictive. It gets under your skin. Once you see your times and fitness improve with every run it's difficult to stop. Running keeps me fit but is also great for my mental wellbeing. Giving me space and time to think. The best part about any race day is the support and Peterborough is brilliant for that. Lots of cheers and high fives all the way round. Plus it’s FLAT!” Now taken over by Good Running Events, director Aaron Murrell says Peterborough’s fast route is a big draw.
“Something that makes the GER route special is that it is the second flattest half marathon route in the whole country making it perfect for any runners looking for their new personal best, or perhaps first timers who’ve not taken part in one before.” It’s also a really good community event generating thousands for local charities like Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice and SSAFA the armed forces charity and a sense of community spirit from crowds cheering the runners on along the route. Everyone’s encouraged to fundraise as charities have lost out so much during the pandemic and it’s an added incentive to urge you across the finish line. Aaron says the Anna’s Hope 5K Fun Run is for a great cause and an ideal running event to get you started – “Many runners choose to use the 5K as a stepping stone up to a larger distance of 10K or half marathon so if you are aiming to take part in one of those longer distances in spring 2023, then the 5K this year in October would be an ideal start. Also Anna’s Hope is a fantastic local cause to support, so why not sign up to run the 5K and raise funds for Anna’s Hope in the process?” Co-founder of the Stamford based charity for children with brain tumours, Carole Hughes said – “Over the years Anna’s Hope has been proud to support the 5K Fun Run and we are looking forward once again to welcoming runners from the local community including families, friends, schools, clubs and local businesses to challenge themselves, have fun and if they can, raise funds for charities and good causes.” Follow the Great Eastern Run on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and find out more at www.greateasternrun.co.uk
“The route will broadly be remaining the same, we are looking at all areas of it at present to improve it wherever possible so that runners have the best possible experience on the day, and best opportunities for spectators to view.
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Boat or Bike?
Brilliant days out at Nene Park! Whether it’s on land or lake the summer fun at Peterborough’s Nene Park is limitless. Our favourite green space has as much to offer on the water as it does throughout the park so why waste petrol and get stuck in the holiday traffic jams when you can live it up locally? “In all the years we’ve been visiting the Park, this was our first boat trip but we all loved the experience. It was great to explore the Park from a different perspective and our helmsman Devon was very knowledgeable. We couldn’t believe how quiet the electric boat was, which we believe resulted in us appreciating some of the local wildlife, including herons and kingfishers.” They agree that for anyone living in the local area, the country park at Ferry Meadows feels like the perfect local day out. Pedaloes, ice cream, barbecues and picnics, play areas and cycle routes plus loads of special fun activities - who needs the coast? The Nene Outdoors Pay & Play activities at Gunwade Lake can keep adults and children entertained for hours with the chance to paddle board, canoe, kayak, windsurf, sail or just settle back in a rather large swan pedalo and cruise around in the sun! The electric passenger boat is a great new addition and can take you on a leisurely trip up the river wildlife spotting. On land there’s archery and climbing sessions
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throughout the holidays along with special events, huge open spaces to play in, cycle hire to explore further afield and loads of walking trails to follow. So what to choose? We asked one Peterborough family to try activities on the water and in the Park. Mum and dad, Jen and Justin and their daughters Imogen and Isla have spent many great days out at Ferry Meadows before, but they still found new experiences to enjoy.
“As a family, we’ve been visiting for years. It’s ideal if you just want a couple of hours in the fresh air with the added bonus of having fantastic play parks for the little ones, however you can easily spend an entire day there, making use of the extensive range of activities. “The Park caters for everyone, whether it’s a family wanting a peaceful walk, exploring the local wildlife or those wanting a more adventurous day out.”
ESP BOAT TRIP OFFER
ESP readers can receive a 10% discount on tickets for the eco-passenger boat trips. Just enter discount code ESP10 when booking online. The offer is valid until the end of September 2022. stand up, control her board and was desperate to give it another go.” On land there’s just as much to do and an opportunity to really explore with great pathways suitable for all abilities, wheelchairs and buggies as well as handy cycle hire facilities offering a range of bikes and helmets located next to the Lakeside Café at Nene Outdoors. Jen says - “The reason we love biking around the Park is because we find a different trail each time we visit. The Park is actually so much bigger than some may realise. It’s also a safe place for children to ride and our own daughters gained so much confidence from our bike rides at the Park when they first learnt to ride a bike. “All staff we came across were friendly, approachable and extremely knowledgeable about the Park, there are good facilities for eating, drinking and for the children to just run around and be themselves.”
Whatever you choose to do, make this the summer you explore one of Peterborough’s best local days out! To find out what’s happening during the holidays and to book your activities in advance so you don’t miss out, just head to www.nenepark.org.uk
There’s such a broad range of water sports and fun to be had on the lake but those unmissable swan pedaloes gliding around are always a winner. “We really enjoyed being on the lake taking turns to manoeuvre our swan, in amongst others taking advantage of the water based activities who seemed to be having a great time too. Our girls loved the fact they were both able to take control of the steering and have a go at pedalling too. They also particularly enjoyed how close the swans and ducks came to our pedalo!” The experienced instructors at Nene Outdoors make sure everyone’s safe and has a great time. The summer holidays are all about having the time to try new experiences and James and his team encourage all age groups to have a go. “Our ten year-old daughter has previously been paddle boarding on the lake and absolutely loved it,” said Justin. “She was a little apprehensive at first but due to the patience and encouragement of the instructor, by the end of her session she was able to
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Family Activities Flag Fen July and August (various dates): Introduction to Forest School (£60 for 6 sessions)
June 18 – September 4: Proud to be Posh (free)
New for 2022! Children aged 6-9 are invited to Flag Fen to take part in Forest School. Over six sessions, children will participate in problemsolving and creative activities to help them to build their confidence and self-esteem and develop positive relationships with themselves, others and the natural world.
Enjoy that match day feel and celebrate all things Posh at this unique exhibition that looks back at Peterborough United’s 88 year history. Whether you’re a new fan or a die-hard supporter, there will be something for you to enjoy as you tour the club’s past, present and future dreams. You’ll be able to re-live the most memorable matches and reminisce about some of the most famous players and managers.
History brought to life! Be a part of Flag Fen’s Viking Camp and witness live action battle reenactments throughout the weekend. You’ll get to try out sword play and archery and find out about traditional woodworking, metalworking, cooking and weaving from Angles and Danes in the Living History Encampment.
Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery
July 30 & 31: Viking Festival (normal entry prices apply)
July 16 – 29: Festival of Archaeology (normal entry prices apply)
Club Viva Holiday Club at Hampton Leisure Centre July 25 – September 2 (£25 per day) Are you looking for fun, action packed childcare? Or just options for keeping your children active, creative and, most importantly, having fun in the holidays? The Club Viva Holiday Club runs five days a week for the whole six week break. Activities vary each day, but you can expect bouncy castles, parachute fun, multi-sports games and plenty of time to get crafty and make new friends. Hampton Leisure Centre has fantastic indoor and outdoor space for fun-filled activities, whatever the weather. Find out more at: vivacity.org/clubviva
Budding young archaeologists are invited to find out how the Romans lived and discover what they left behind in mock Roman excavation pits. Get digging! On 16 & 17 July, roundhouse experts David and Ann Freeman will be giving talks about life in the Iron Age and how the new roundhouse was built during the spring. From 18 – 29 July, visitors can help the team to build a new Stone Age village. July 23: Francis Pryor book signing and tour (£20 per ticket) Find out how Francis Pryor discovered the most important Bronze Age site in Europe. August 1 – 31: Jurassic Explorers (£5 per explorer pack + normal entry price)
July 9 – November 6: Extinction (free) Extinction affects us all and one in ten of our wildlife in the UK is critically endangered. Scientists have identified five periods of mass extinction over the geological record and the question is now being asked: are we in a sixth? This exhibition addresses this fascinating topic and looks at the demise of the dinosaurs and marine reptiles, death of the ice age mammoths and the impact of humans on the dodo. Find out more about what’s on at the museum: peterboroughmuseum.org.uk
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Pick up a Jurassic Explorer pack from the visitor centre and discover what sort of sea creature has reappeared in the Mere. Then travel back through time to Flag Fen 160 million years ago and find out about the marine reptiles that shared the earth with the Dinosaurs. Intrepid young paleontologists can uncover their own real fossils in brand new clay pits. August (various dates): Flag Fen Fledglings (£10 per session) Back by popular demand are these creative and imaginative outdoor sessions for 3-5 year olds. Children will experience the magic of the woods through storytelling, nature play, music, puppetry and much more. Find out more about what’s on at Flag Fen: flagfen.org.uk
Rollers Fun Family Skate at Bushfield Leisure Centre Various Sundays starting July 10 (£5 per person, £12 family ticket) Great news, regular family skate sessions are back at Bushfield Leisure Centre from 10th July. Grab your family and friends, pull on your skates and get fit while having fun! Skate hire available. 10am – 1pm. See website at vivacity.org/rollers for dates.
Let’s try a new challenge… After all the limits we’ve had on what we can do, this summer could be the one to push yourself a little and try some new mini adventures. There are plenty of challenges out there that are confidence building and fun for you, and your kids. So why not head out to one of our local activity centres and try something different – maybe reach for new heights over the holidays and try a climbing wall? You can give this a go at Peterborough’s Nene Park on special activity days throughout the summer break but regularly at Tallington Lakes. Climbing is a great mental and physical workout and believe us, when you reach the top you’ll be fist pumping the air with such a great sense of achievement whatever your age! Chas Shrosbee at Tallington Lakes told ESP – “Physically it’s a whole-body workout; strengthening your muscles and improving flexibility (you’ll be surprised the positions you’ll get yourself in). Picking your route up is a mental puzzle, requiring problem solving skills. “Ours is an outdoor climbing tower, so once again you have the benefits of ‘being outside’ and the challenge of reaching new heights is good for focusing the mind. Most people find it great for their self-esteem and feeling good. And, as we have often witnessed, you may surprise yourself!” The brilliant 15 metre climbing tower at Tallington Lakes has four sides to it that vary in difficulty getting progressively more challenging as your confidence grows and your abilities improve. It’s a great one to get you started and then let you progress if you take to it. It’s completely safe as you’re securely harnessed and a rope runs from the instructor up to the fixture at the top of the tower and back down to you at the other end. By feeding the rope through (belaying) as you ascend it's always tight, so if you were to slip you'd only ever fall a few centimetres at most. ESP’s ‘action man’ Darren Grigas gave it a go but while he might be used to pushing himself on some heavy duty challenges, he told us this climbing wall is an ideal activity for all ages and fitness levels to try – “Once we'd nailed the first wall we each tried the more difficult sides working up to the hardest wall facing an overhang when you're already about 7m up, at this
point you realise it's not as easy as it looks from the ground. There are a select few holds to choose from and those you can reach don't offer much for you to grip easily. There’s certainly enough to challenge climbers of varied strength and ability.” The thing with climbing of course is the reward of some great views when you reach your goal. From the top of the tower at Tallington Lakes you can see right across the park; the dry ski slopes and pro-shop neighbouring the tower, holiday homes, lakes and woodland off into the distance showing just how big the place is. If you just don’t have a head for heights there are plenty of ways to challenge yourself, or of course just have fun, on the water too. The vast lakes are a wonderful playground and you can easily entertain yourself for a day trying different things with or without the kids.
During those (hopefully) hot summer days ahead you could have a go at canoeing, kayaking, jet skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, open water swimming, water zorbing, SUPing (stand up paddle boards), even water skiing so you really can make this summer the one when you and the family try something new. www.tallington.com
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Karen Miller
Fashion
Karen Miller is a qualified Style Coach and Personal Development Consultant who prides herself in making her clients look and feel fantastic and ultimately achieve greater success in their work and personal lives.
Hot Summer Fashion
At last summer’s here and with foreign holidays back on the cards, garden parties and many other outdoor events, now is a good time to buy yourself a few versatile outfits to ensure you feel fabulous whatever occasion you’re invited to celebrate this summer. My selection is a nod to many trends, however they are wearable and can be switched up with different accessories to change the look.
Model: Gemma Royce Photos: Wayne Bloye Photography Styling: Karen Miller
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Sequin Jumpsuit, Zara, £49.99
White Midi Dress With Embellished Detail, Zara, £59.99 Accessories: Stylist’s own
Starting off with a gorgeous off-white dress from Zara. White is a summer staple and is a key trend for summer. Whether you choose to go for a mini, midi or maxi option make sure that it showcases your favourite aspects of your figure. This dress is super versatile and can be worn dressed up for a summer party or dressed down for a shopping trip. It comes with a belt that you can tie either at the front or the back, or swap it entirely for a different colour, or no belt at all. To compliment this outfit I’ve chosen tan accessories that are a simple neutral option. The wedge sandals are very comfortable and the neutral colour ensures that your legs are elongated. The tan bag has some lovely detail that compliments the embroidery in the dress. I’ve got to also give some attention to these amazing sunglasses. They’re a very similar to the beautiful Chanel sunglasses that retail for over £300, these are our wonderful model’s and she purchased them recently from www.Shein.co.uk for £7.
Floral prints are always popular in summer and H&M have done some lovely prints this year that are stunning and lots of fun. This dress is one of my favourites, the beautiful halter neck makes it super flattering for people with a smaller bust line and the ‘A’ line drop of the skirt gives it a lovely comfortable feel. The real show stopper of this dress is in the detail, the tie back is beautiful as well as practical, enabling you to adjust the fit to suit your figure. Add a denim jacket and you’re good to go for any rain showers that we may be blessed with during our typically English summertime.
Floral Halterneck Dress, H&M, £39.99 Denim Jacket, H&M, £29.99 Accessories Stylist’s own Floral Skirt, H&M, £24.99 Floral Top, H&M, £19.99
Another alternative to the dress is the co-ord, this outfit is again from H&M and would be perfect for a summer festival or tropical holiday. What I really like is that you can change it up very easily, adding a white t-shirt or shirt to wear with the skirt and a pair of shorts or mini skirt to wear with the top.
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Always searching for the perfect jeans may take on a whole new meaning when you start looking for the perfect white jean. I’ve chosen these skinny jeans from Zara because they work best for our beautiful model’s figure, however there are many great styles, straight leg and boot cut have made a reappearance this year and in fashion terms have superseded the skinny. However, I always advise my clients to go for ‘style’ over simply following fashion. Therefore make sure you pick the best style for you and your shape, this way you will feel comfortable and happy in your choices. What’s important is that the fit is great and the materials are generally good quality, ensuring that you can’t see through the jeans and a pair with a decent lycra content will enable them to keep their shape.
An alternative to jeans is the casual trouser, these wide leg trousers are a nice alternative and are much lighter for the summer months. I’ve paired them with a lovely white top from New Look which can either be worn on or off the shoulder. A word of warning though, if you are going for a wide leg trouser, ensure that the top half is more streamlined and either finishes at the waist as this one does or can be tied or tucked into the waistline, this will ensure your silhouette looks balanced.
Print Shirt, Zara, £29.99 Red Leather Belt, Zara, £19.99 White Jeans, Zara, £25.99
Cameo Rose Top, New Look, £17.99 Wide Leg Trousers, Zara, £29.99 Trainers Converse
Sequin Jumpsuit, Zara, £49.99
Skirt New Look £25.99 White Top Zara, £25.99 Denim Jacket, H&M, £29.99
My final pick is super glamorous, sequins are all over the high street this year, and you can choose to go full on like this gorgeous sequin jumpsuit with an open back detail and tie at the front. Wearing a jumpsuit can be much more practical than a mini skirt or dress and is equally as striking. The high street is full of sequins, I think it’s a nod to the fact we all want to go out and get dressed up again after the last couple of years staying at home. If you’re not confident with full on sparkle, choose one piece and mix it up with a plain white shirt.
So, that’s it for me, have a wonderful summer and as always if you need some help drop me an email at karen@in-styleconsulting.com Karen Miller
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Mabel, About Last Night…
Having performed in front of Buckingham Palace to millions for the Platinum Jubilee what’s next for ESP’s gorgeous summer cover star, pop singer Mabel? The release of her second album that’s what, with About Last Night due out on Polydor Records on July 15. Mabel will then be celebrating the album launch with a special headline show at London’s Somerset House on July 17. It features the euphoric first single from the album Let Them Know, along with Good Luck and more releases to come. About Last Night follows the Brit Award winner’s debut album High Expectations and sees Mabel once again switch up her effortless way with modern pop. Influences span the sweaty and liberated euphoria of noughties club-culture, with elements of house, disco, trance, and R&B. The genesis of About Last Night began during lockdown. The result is a superbly self-assured album set across one night. Each track examines the minutiae of a night out – getting ready; feeling invincible; clocking an ex; crying in the bathroom and stumbling home. We’ve all been there! “I want to inspire people to control the room, and to tell their own stories,” says Mabel. “Especially as a female, we’re told that to please a man we need to be pretty, funny, sexy, but not too-sexy; god forbid a man might think you’re dominant. Right now, I am really unapologetic about who I am, and I want the world of this album to feel like one
space with different rooms. Embrace your wild side, let go of the idea of perfection, and be unafraid.” To really understand the album is to know the emotional journey Mabel has been on. Since debut track Know Me Better and breakthrough single Finders Keepers (2017), the singer’s been on a constant path of evolution. Mabel won a BRIT award for British Female Solo Artist, yet beneath it all despite the increasing success, she was struggling. Falling into an abyss of social media negativity, her confidence was slowly being shattered. Lockdown arrived just in time. It gave Mabel the space to be kind to herself, to stop overthinking and self criticising, to think things over quietly and calmly, to allow herself to work things out. “I feel truly confident for possibly the first time ever. I’ve lived a lot of my life caring about what other people might think and enough is enough. Own who you are and stop being apologetic. It’s exhausting to apologise for your existence. What I love most about this album is its fearlessness.”
Our Ms Galaxy girl is shooting for the stars! We’re proud to announce that ESP model and Peterborough girl, Gemma Royce is the Ms Galaxy UK Peterborough finalist.
after being inspired and encouraged to enter last year by the lovely Miss Ireland (Chloe Davies),” Gemma told ESP.
Gemma has often appeared in ESP Magazine’s photo shoots and campaigns but her day job is with train operator LNER as a customer service host but she has ambitions to be a train manager.
“I’m thrilled to be in the running to be crowned as Ms Galaxy and represent the UK. I have always loved the glitz and glam that comes along with pageants aand I pride myself on representing strong independent females who strive to achieve their goals and ambitions whilst supporting and encouraging each other too.
However, she is a lady of many talents being a Black Belt 2nd Dan in Taekwondo and is also well known locally as a professional dancer running the popular Gem’z Diamondz dance group in Peterborough for many years. It’s no wonder then that with a wealth of talents, achievements and of course good looks, Gemma has made it through the rigorous selection process. She’s come a long way since being a student at Stanground College, and supported by her children, friends and family she’s hoping to take the Ms Galaxy title at the finals in November. “I am super excited and still in shock that I have achieved a place in the final of Ms Galaxy
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“I cannot wait to get involved, have fun, make new friends and be a great role model to other females especially my daughter.” It could mean some amazing prizes, trips and modeling jobs if Gemma succeeds and we’ve got our fingers crossed! In the meantime Gemma’s looking to make public appearances and get involved in local projects and charity events so if you’d like to get Ms Peterborough Galaxy along to your events just get in touch on email gemmaleanne565@hotmail.co.uk or Gemma’s Instagram, @gem_royce.
Screen Scene Gavin Miller
Peterborough’s longest serving film critic with a passion for movies.
THOR: LOVE & THUNDER Released: July 8 Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Christian Bale, Natalie Portman Director:Taika Waititi
Marvel once again monopolises my main movie preview – as the God of Thunder looks to dominate the summer. Following on from the slightly-underwhelming Dr Strange effort, it will be good to put the multiverse (hopefully) on the back-burner as Marvel gets back to basics. And if getting ‘back to basics’ means acclaimed director Taika Waititi unleashing something as zanily effective as 2017’s Ragnarok – then Love and Thunder could be ‘lightning in a bottle’ in a very good way. The Avenger and former King of Asgard – who abdicated to Tessa Thompson’s Valkyrie at the conclusion of Endgame – finds that inner peace is short-lived when Christian Bale’s scarred Gorr the God Butcher throws a spanner in the works.
All release dates are correct at time of going to press
He enlists the help of Valkyrie, Korg (Waititi) and ex-girlfriend Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) – who has taken up the mantle of an alternative version of the Mighty Thor – to tackle this new galactic menace.
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Throw in Thor’s childhood friend and Asgardian warrior Sif (Jaimie Alexander) – who sat out Ragnarok – Russell Crowe as king of the Olympians Zeus, Jeff Goldblum’s returning fan-favourite Grandmaster, and cameos from Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy gang, and you’ve got all the hammer-wielding ingredients for a summer blockbuster. And if it’s anywhere near as eclectically-progressive as Thor’s last standalone adventure, this could be something special once again…
JURASSIC WORLD: DOMINION
LIGHTYEAR
Released: June 10
Released: June 17
The final part of the Jurassic World Trilogy goes full circle – with doctors Alan Grant (Sam Neill), Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) returning from the original ‘Park’ film. Four years after the destruction of Isla Nublar, they join Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) and Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) in a new adventure as dinosaurs now live – and hunt – alongside humans across the world.
Ever wanted to know the origin story of the iconic character who inspired the Toy Story action figure? Well now you can in this Disney/Pixar space adventure. After Buzz Lightyear’s (voiced by Chris Evans) first test flight for Star Command doesn’t go to plan – leaving him time traveling 62 years into the future – he has to find a way home. And tackle the evil Emperor Zurg, threatening the galaxy, along the way.
MINIONS: THE RISE OF GRU
BULLET TRAIN
Released: July 1
Released: August 3
The uber-popular Minions get their second movie with this sequel to the 2015 mega-hit based on the Despicable Me franchise. Steve Carell returns as the iconic Gru in this 1970s-set prequel, which sees him as a fanboy of a team of supervillains known as the Vicious 6. But when things go awry after failing to be ‘evil’ enough to join them, he turns to his Minion allies – and the former head of the group – for help.
Brad Pitt headlines what could be the ‘coolest’ film of the summer – with this neo-noir ensemble actioncomedy thriller from the co-director of John Wick. He stars as ‘looking to retire’ killer Ladybug, who gets pulled in for one last job by his boss (Sandra Bullock) to collect a briefcase on a Japanese ‘bullet train’ out of Tokyo – but he soon discovers he’s competing with other assassins for the prized possession.
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ELVIS Released: June 24 Acclaimed Romeo+Juliet director Baz Luhrmann helms this biographical drama based on the legendary singer/actor Elvis Presley (Austin Butler). This musical chronicles his days from childhood through to rock n’ roll star – and his complex relationship with manager Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks).
WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING Released: July 22 Based on the global best-selling novel, this mysterydrama sees a woman (Daisy Edgar-Jones), who raised herself in the marshes of America’s deep South, become a suspect in the murder of a man – who just happens to be the local ‘hotshot’ football quarterback – after having a brief tryst with him.
DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-PETS Released: July 29 When the Justice League is captured by the villainous Lex Luthor, Superman’s dog Krypto (voiced by Dwayne Johnson) forms a team of fellow superpower-wielding pets – including Kevin Hart’s powerful hound Ace – to try and help rescue his mentor and pals in this animated superhero adventure.
BEAST Released: August 12 Idris Elba’s widower goes on a long-planned trip with his two daughters to a South African game reserve owned by an old family friend. But their adventure soon turns into a nightmarish battle for survival as they are hunted by a rogue lion – intent on proving the Savanna has only one apex predator.
NOPE Released: August 12 The latest movie from Jordan Peele – the acclaimed filmmaker behind Get Out and Us – sees residents of an isolated California town witness a mysteriously abnormal event that literally turns their lives upside down. Peele re-teams with his Get Out breakout star Daniel Kaluuya in this sci-fi horror.
VIDEO GAME REVIEW:
LEGO STAR WARS – THE SKYWALKER SAGA (XBOX SERIES X/S / PLAYSTATION 5 / XB1 / PS4 / PC) – OUT NOW
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The Skywalker Saga (which covers all nine Star Wars films) doesn’t just re-hash previous iterations of the franchise, but rebuilds it from scratch with a far vaster universe adorned with planetary hub worlds (from Coruscant to Kamino) that include puzzle solving and character unlocking – alongside the iconic storylines.
As well as attacking the game in which trilogy order you desire – from The Phantom Menace, A New Hope or The Force Awakens – it also boasts by far the biggest Star Wars roster ever, with more than 380 characters at your disposal including stars of The Mandalorian - and a new class system that evolves via Kyber bricks collection. With advanced combat, cover and flying mechanics to also accompany the more defined landscapes, this feels like Star Wars on a much grander scale – and is quite simply a joy to play with Luke, Han, Leia, Rey, Vader and co. Combine that with the tried-and-tested Lego comedic formula, and this is without doubt the best Lego version of the series from a galaxy far, far away, yet – despite the odd ‘buggy’ moment here and there. Do or do not, there is no try. I strongly suggest you ‘do’…
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Tonight Mathew I’m going to be... Live concerts are back big style this summer, but if you can’t get tickets to see your favourite artists, or they’re just not touring, why not opt for the next best thing? There are some fantastic tribute acts heading to Peterborough this summer and you’re spoilt for choice. The New Theatre on Broadway has loads of ‘stars’ appearing over the next few months, so whatever era or music style gets you up and dancing, we reckon you’ll find something to get you singing along.
George Michael… in FASTLOVE
The Bee Gees… in JIVE TALKIN’
We knew you were waiting for this… The world’s largest George Michael celebration Fastlove is back with a brand new show for 2022 and it arrives in Peterborough on Thursday June 30.
You should be dancing… and you will be with this incredible Bee Gees tribute band, back on tour with a stunning new show and line-up.
Now touring in 18 countries, Fastlove has quickly become a global phenomenon and is bigger than ever with a brand new setlist. There will only ever be one George Michael and this show pays tribute to all his incredible music, his life and the great man himself.
Johnny Cash… in the FROM THE ASHES TOUR If you just love the ‘man in black’ this is the only show to be endorsed by the Cash family! After a 2 year-long hiatus, the Johnny Cash Roadshow is back and better than ever on Friday July 1. Award-winning Clive John pays homage to this amazing artist with a brand new updated show featuring all your favourites, the show digs deeper into the Cash catalogue to bring you songs from his acclaimed American Recordings (The Man Comes Around, Hurt) and other rarities and surprises.
Fleetwood Mac… in GO YOUR OWN WAY Go Your Own Way is a brand new show featuring the music from the legendary multiple Grammy Award Winning Fleetwood Mac and you can see it here on Sunday July 10. Their rock ‘n’ roll legacy is beautifully performed by a talented group of musicians who’ll take you on a powerful journey through their incredible song book. Paying tribute to their Rumours line-up of Stevie, Mick, John, Christine and Lindsey, this show perfectly recreates the live energy and passion of Fleetwood Mac.
The Electric Light Orchestra… in ELO AGAIN The UK’s No.1 tribute show, ELO Again are back on Sunday September 4 celebrating the truly universal music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra. Now in their 8th year ELO Again really gives you a dramatic taste of what a legendary ELO concert would have been like back in their heyday, the whole experience is professionally re-enacted with a great sound reproduction, soaring strings and vocals, light show and visual effects. 46
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Prepare to be amazed as the timeless repertoire of the Bee Gees is brought to life with such stunning authenticity and sincerity you’ll feel as if you are at a real Bee Gees concert. Jive Talkin’ deliver a powerhouse performance charged with emotion to produce a show unlike any other. Catch them in Peterborough on Thursday September 8.
David Bowie… in the BOWIE EXPERIENCE Bowie Experience is a spectacular concert celebrating the sound and vision of David Bowie. A must see for all Bowie fans, the latest production heading to Peterborough on Saturday September 10 features all the hits from A to Ziggy. Bowie Experience continues to amaze audiences with an astounding attention to detail, bringing the golden years of David Bowie to theatres across the globe. So, put on your red shoes and Let’s Dance!
Robbie Williams... in LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU It’s a night of full-on Robbie on Sunday September 11 in this full stage production, with huge stage sets, a host of talented musicians, state of the art video and that hint of Robbie magic. Performer JK has been recognised as the greatest tribute to Robbie throughout the world and has toured 22 countries playing to audiences of more than 3 million in 18 years and has appeared on over 30 TV shows throughout the world. The show will transport you to the famous Robbie Williams show at Knebworth over to the Royal Albert Hall swing show and back to the Heavy Entertainment show Robbie toured in 2017.
Tickets for all shows are available on
www.newtheatre-peterborough.com
peterborough.tickets@selladoorvenues.com or call the box office on 01733 852992 New Theatre, 46 Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1RS www.espmag.co.uk
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Photos: Wayne Bloye
LiveMusic
Live Music News from the local music scene.
ARCTIC MONKEYS TRIBUTE ARE ON A ROLL Since we last caught up with Peterborough based band Arctic Roll, they’ve made a promotional video and the bookings are rolling in!
The band’s now being managed by Leicester promoter Dale Walton who’s involved in huge events and has connections all over the UK and the guys are working with him now to start a tour called the From Ritz To Rubble Tour. “The bookings keep flying in,” says Danny, “and we’ve been asked to support the UK’s no.1 Royal Blood tribute in Canterbury towards the end of the year. “The band has exceeded our expectations and if we’re honest we had no idea how well things were going to go, we’re getting to the stage where we’re considering the possibility of just doing this full time as a living!” It looks like the time was perfect for an Arctic Monkey’s tribute act and our local lads are going down a storm already. ESP was invited along to the band’s promo video shoot at Club Liberation and it was a fantastic day – you can watch it on their Facebook page. Lead singer Danny Dill told ESP things have gone much faster than they ever expected – “We’ve already been hitting some great venues around the UK from Leighton Buzzard to the Isle of Sheppey with great feedback and great crowd participation. They’re hooked and singing along from the first song to the last!”
The local gigs are also coming in thick and fast and you can catch the guys at The Yard of Ale on Oundle Road on July 23, headlining Deepings Raft Race on August 7 and at The Queen’s Head in Peterboorugh city centre on August 26.
THE REAL THING RETURN After saying that their return to Peterborough gig at The Cresset last November was ‘one of the best gigs’ of the year for them, it’s perhaps no surprise The Real Thing announced they’re coming back as part of their latest UK tour. Original vocalists Chris Amoo and Dave Smith along with a live 5-piece band are on tour promoting their first new album of original material in 44 years – A Brand New Day (No 3 in Amazon best sellers) and are coming to The Cresset on Sunday September 11. They also have their new soulful single Hang On Never Let Go which has had heavy radio and TV promotion and will certainly be special for everyone who grew up listening to their classic hits. On the reverse of this single is a live version of their classic composition, Children of the Ghetto, which has been covered by the likes of Courtney Pine, Paul Hardcastle, Mary J Blige and Philip Bailey. This is the first time that a recording of this track has been made featuring lead vocals by Chris Amoo. Tickets are £29.50, back row £21.50 from The Cresset box office on 01733 265705 or www.cresset.co.uk
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LiveMusic
Live Music News from the local music scene.
Check out www.espmag.co.uk for more.
BREWERY TAP OPEN MIC It’s a live jukebox of tunes and you don’t know what you’ll get but there’ll undoubtedly be a few gems.
Come and join us at a pub that’s at the heart of the community and has charity at its heart!
LIVE MUSIC
See the ESP Gig Guide for all our Live Music nights.
Photos: Wayne Bloye
performances or jam with others.”
Tap are a chilled way to rinse the very last out of your weekend. You can pop down and enjoy some tasty Thai food for your tea and a decent pint while the entertainment unfolds and not stay too late, or if you’re a bit more hardcore you can keep your Sunday night lively right through until 11pm. Open mic is great for giving people a chance, but less of an earache than karaoke can often be! Most who have the courage to stand up and sing in front of an open mic crowd can usually deliver a decent tune... sadly not all karaoke fans on a few pints can claim the same.
There were some familiar faces playing the night we went along with Velocity frontman Ricky Worraker belting out a few tunes and Andy Hughes along with some Open Mic regulars like Matt Howard who ably paid tribute to the likes of Sam Fender.
You get singers from local bands stretching their acoustic talents or trying out new material or old favourites they perhaps don’t always get to deliver, as well as singers who just like to do it for fun before going back to the day job. Some make it personal with their self-penned original material.
Paul Schmassmann’s been helping run the nights here since October 2021 and says the night varies from month to month.
The monthly Sunday night Open Mic sessions at the Brewery
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“Generally we see a diverse selection of performers with varying degrees of skill levels. For some it may be their first venture on stage but we also get a number of accomplished musicians and often members of a band who want to try some solo
Paul says anyone can give it a go even poetry performers and comics.
Summer Charity Beer Festival
“Open mics generally have a supportive audience and are a good platform for people to have a go at performing on stage and also meet like minded musicians – there have been some great collaborations over the years and some epic jam sessions when we get a number of people on stage for a grand finale.
June 30 - July 3 In aid of Heltwate School Fri July 1 Last Minute Brigade Sat July 2 Salmon Dave and Carpark Rendezvous Sun July 3 The Nuggets
“As a performer myself I have attended the Brewery Tap open mic from when it first started there back in 2011. During that time there has been many memorable moments and notable performers, some who have developed their skills and gone on to become accomplished and well recognised on the local music scene.” The summer Open Mic sessions at the Brewery Tap are on Sunday July 3, Sunday August 7 and Sunday September 4, all from 6-11pm.
LIVE MUSIC
Sun July 10 Adam Leon and Dave Smith duo Sun July 17 Another Girl, Another Planet Sun July 24 Candy Twist Sun Aug 7 23 Reasons Sun Aug 21 The One Eyed Cats Sat Aug 27 A Presto Sun Aug 28 High Rollers Sun Sept 4 Brotherhoods Roundabout Fri Sept 9 German Oktoberfest night with the Oompa Loompa band
Staniland Way Werrington 01733 327696
VELOCITY CELEBRATES 10th ANNIVERSARY
We have to say congratulations and happy anniversary to popular Peterborough band Velocity who are having the best time on their 10th Anniversary tour. 2019 the band were invited to play at the prestigious Formula 1 Grand Prix in Silverstone, performing to visitors from all over the world. Following the success of this performance they were invited back to perform again later in the year at the Moto GP.
MELLOW SUBMARINE ARE FAB BEATLES TRIBUTE
Post-pandemic the band’s enjoyed playing at larger events, including a wedding at The Palace of Westminster. They also received praise from Jools Holland who was in attendance at another of their performances.
You can’t beat The Beatles classics, and new tribute band Mellow Submarine have a vast repertoire of classic gems from the Fab Four that’s just the tonic for a chilled evening or a lazy Sunday afternoon. The band consists of Ian Hopkins, Giddy and Spencer Hart, all members of longstanding local bands. ESP asked Spencer why they decided to put the band together. “A shared passion for acoustic music and of course a mutual love of the 'Fab Four' brought us together via a few local ads, and after meeting up with each decided we had room for something a bit different to get stuck into. We set about putting a set together over winter, played a successful first gig in April and have a handful of dates throughout the year.”
2022 sees Velocity playing at some of their favourite venues that have supported the band for the past 10 years, playing hits from all genres and decades, from ABBA to Zeppelin.
Not many school bands get past the summer holidays but Velocity formed in the summer of 2012 at The King’s School Peterborough and are still going strong. Founding members Ricky Worraker and Oscar Smith, who were later joined by James Pepper and Curt Redman to complete the line-up, are into the second half of their anniversary tour.
They’re well worth a watch so make sure you catch a gig and help them celebrate this milestone – check out the ESP Gig Guide to see where they’re playing next.
Velocity now play around 80 shows per year with a wide mixture of weddings and private functions. In
Sounds good? See them for yourself this summer at The Pizza Parlour on Sunday June 19 at 3pm, and at Mama Liz's in Stamford on Sunday July 17 at 4pm. You can find the guys on Facebook and keep tabs on what they're up to.
NEW BEAUTIFUL SOUTH TRIBUTE It’s taken A Little Time but there’s a new tribute act in town, and you may have caught their storming debut at Yaxley Festival. Very Beautiful South is an authentic 9-piece tribute to The Beautiful South and the songwriting genius of Paul Heaton & Dave Rotheray. The band is made up of a group of experienced and professional musicians who are lifelong fans of The Beautiful South. Following the success of their debut gig at Yaxley Festival, Very Beautiful South will be playing again at Charters Bar on Saturday July 16 as part of their outdoor Saturday Sessions. Starting at 3pm, the band will be performing two 1-hour sets of sing-a-long-a-South classics and will be supported by Southside Supernova who’ll be spinning an array of 90s chart hits on the decks into the evening. They’re hoping they’ll score a Perfect 10 with fans of the band’s classic hits and build their popularity on the Peterborough music circuit. The band includes Lisa Arbon and Andy Whittaker who provide the vocals with Alan Henery on guitars, Mark Hurrell on bass and vocals, Art Chapman on drums, Will Barrowcliffe providing percussion, Keith Dalton on keyboards, Dave Anton on trumpet and Dave Taylor on sax/flute. You can find out more about A Very Beautiful South www.facebook.com/verybeautifulsouth and on their website www.verybeautifulsouth.co.uk
The Ostrich pub in Peterborough has become well established on the local live music circuit – just check out our Gig Guide and you’ll see why, but in addition to all their regular nights they have two great festivals lined up this summer. The East Angrier DIY Punk Weekender should be a loud and lively one over the weekend of July 16 and 17 with a mammoth line-up of 16 bands over the two days. On the Saturday things kick off at 2pm and the bands playing live will be: Sleeps Cousin, Das Kapitans, Call To The Faithful, Manic, Good Job Kid, Get The F... Outta Dodge, Rat Race, Baker and All Fall Down. Then on Sunday things get underway at 3pm with Collars, Goldblume, Eat Your Own Head, Soviet Films, A Great Notion, Keep This Up and Scumbus. You won’t want to miss the second annual Ostrichfest Beer and Music Festival, running from Thursday August 4 to Sunday August 7. As well as plenty of beers to choose from there will also be some great live tunes. On Thursday The High Rollers kick off Ostrichfest at 8.30pm, Friday sees Mark Stevens take to the stage at 7pm followed by Frankly My Dear at 9.30pm. It’s an earlier start on Saturday with Salmon Dave at 5pm and Bent Back Tulips at 9.30pm. Then it’s an easy Sunday afternoon at 2.30pm with the Palmy Ukulele Band and Johnny Quinn rounding things off nicely at 5pm.
BREWS AND TUNES AT THE PLOUGHMAN BEER FESTIVAL
And what can we expect from a Mellow Submarine gig? “With acoustic guitars, bass and three-part harmonies we hope to breathe new life into tracks from the twominute romps of the Beatles' debut Please Please Me through to the up-tempo vibes of Let It Be,” says Spencer. “Most of these songs are pretty short so it's quite relentless – everyone can find something in there that they can tap, sing or dance along to.”
SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVALS AT THE OSTRICH
The Ploughman pub in Werrington is not only well known for serving up a decent pint but some great regular live music too. Their summer beer festival will see a wide range of real ales on offer from Thursday June 30 through until Sunday July 3 – so you know where to head that weekend! Music wise there’s plenty of quality bands lined up too with Last Minute Brigade kicking things off at 8pm on Friday July 1. Enjoy a Saturday afternoon pint accompanied by Salmon Dave at 3pm and then a rocking evening from 8pm with Carpark Rendezvous. The ever popular guys from The Nuggets round things off nicely on Sunday July 3 at 3pm.
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GIGGUIDE
If you want to get your gigs in ESP for free, e-mail:
SHARON@ESPMAG.CO.UK
*Gigs are subject to change – always check before you head out! JUNE JUNE 12 ARCTIC ROLL The Ploughman Werrington
2012 BAND 2.30-5pm Charters Town Bridge
JOE DRURY 3pm The Limetree Paston Lane
MARK STEVENS 3-6pm Pizza Parlour & Music Café Cowgate
HEAD IN THE SAND FOLK SESSION 1-4pm The Ostrich North Street
JUNE 13 JIMMY JAMES
Pizza Parlour & Music Café Cowgate
JUNE 16 ORIGINALS ACOUSTIC – DAN DONOVAN + ADAM TRENDALL + STEVE DANIELS The Ostrich North Street
JUNE 17 PORKY PIG The Ostrich North Street
BHDC BAND Charters Town Bridge
MORNING GLORY The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
JUNE 18 SOUL FX The Burghley Burghley Road
BLACK DOG MURPHY The Ostrich North Street
VELOCITY The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
LIVE BAND The Ploughman Werrington
JUNE 19 MELLOW SUBMARINE
3-6pm Pizza Parlour & Music Café Cowgate
BROTHERHOODS ROUNDABOUT The Ploughman Werrington
THE ATOMICS 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
EPIGONE JAZZ ENSEMBLE 4-6pm Mama Liz’s Stamford
JUNE 20 A FINE GROOVE Pizza Parlour & Music Café Cowgate
JUNE 21 OPEN MIC NIGHT The Falcon Whittlesey
JUNE 22 CECIL FARAYI
Pizza Parlour & Music Café Cowgate
JUNE 23 PALMY UKULELE REHEARSAL The Ostrich North Street
JUNE 24 CIRCA 73 The Ostrich North Street
THE GANGSTERS Brewery Tap Westgate
THE FAMOUS UNKNOWNS The Crown Lincoln Road
ACOUSTIC SESSIONS The Falcon Whittlesey
TOMMY PHILPOT The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
JUNE 25 DIZZY MISS LIZZY’S The Burghley Burghley Road
THE MIGHTY & THE HIGH The Ostrich North Street
THE NUMBERS The Crown Lincoln Road
VELOCITY
Post Office Club Bourges Boulevard
ACOUSTIC ARTISTS 3- 6pm Chatteris Festival Furrowfields Road
TOXIC BLONDES The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
DIRTY RUMOUR The London Inn Stamford
TIGER CLUB The Ploughman Werrington
MISCELLANEOUS Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
JUNE 26 DAVID JAMES SMITH 4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
ANNA & JIMMY 3-6pm Pizza Parlour & Music Café Cowgate
RADIUS 45
2020
JULY 10
VELOCITY
STEALER
DIRTY RUMOUR
HEAD IN THE SAND FOLK SESSIONS
MIDNIGHT CALLING
THE LEGIONARIES 77
DIRTY RUMOUR
VELOCITY
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
4.30-6.30pm South Witham Festival South Witham
JULY 3 JIMMY DOHERTY
The Ploughman Werrington
4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
OPEN MIC NIGHT
THE NUGGETS
The Limetree Paston Lane
CAUSTIC LIGHTS The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
UNCOVERED TAKEOVER 2-5pm Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
JUNE 27 HAYLEY DI RITO Pizza Parlour & Music Café Cowgate
JUNE 30 YOU & I AND HIM The Ostrich North Street
PETERBOROUGH BIG BAND Brewery Tap Westgate
JULY JULY 1 THE EXPLETIVES The Ostrich North Street
LAST MINUTE BRIGADE The Ploughman Werrington
LEON
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
THE MIDNIGHT CALLING The Crown Lincoln Road
STEALER The Nags Head Eastrea
3pm The Ploughman Werrington
THE MIDNIGHT CALLING The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
OPEN MIC NIGHT Brewery Tap Westgate
JULY 7 PALMY UKELELE BAND REHEARSAL The Ostrich North Street
OPEN MIC Mama Liz’s Stamford
JULY 8 HIGHWAY STAR The Ostrich North Street
THE SMITHS UTD Mama Liz’s Stamford Ticketed
DAVID JAMES SMITH The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
CAR PARK RENDEZVOUS The Dragonfly Herlington Centre
RADIUS 45 The Crown Lincoln Road
JULY 9 RAMSHACKLE SERENADE
JULY 2
The Burghley Burghley Road
MIDNIGHT CALLING
LIGHT SKIES DARKEN
BLACKOUT UK
PHOENIX PROJECT
The Burghley Burghley Road The Ostrich North Street
THE ATOMICS The Crown Lincoln Road
SALMON DAVE 3pm
CARPARK RENDEZVOUS 8pm The Ploughman Werrington
THE MIGHTY & THE HIGH Ex Servicemen’s Club Thorney
Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
The Ostrich North Street
THE MIGHTY & THE HIGH The Bluebell Werrington
SUB MACHINES The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
UNDER THE COVERS 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
For the latest gigs visit 50
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1-4pm The Ostrich North Street
ADAM LEON & DAVE SMITH The Ploughman Werrington
THE GUARDS 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
PALMY UKELELE BAND 3-5pm Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
DIRTY RUMOUR 2.30 – 5pm The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
JULY 13
The Court Pool & Snooker Club Bretton
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
JULY 17 EAST ANGRIER DIY PUNK WEEKENDER – COLLARS + GOLDBLUME + EAT YOUR OWN HEAD + SOVIET FILMS + A GREAT NOTION + KEEP THIS UP + SCUMBUS From 3pm The Ostrich North Street
ACOUSTIC SESSIONS
MELLOW SUBMARINE
OPEN MIC NIGHT
THE LEGIONARIES 77
The Falcon Whittlesey
Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
JULY 15 THE DEPS The Ostrich North Street
DIRTY RUMOUR The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
BROTHERHOODS ROUNDABOUT
(4pm) Mama Liz's Stamford
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
HIGH ROLLERS 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
BON ROGERS 3-5pm Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
The Crown Lincoln Road
ANOTHER GIRL, ANOTHER PLANET
THE SOAP GIRLS + MARCH TO THE GRAVE
JULY 19
Mama Liz’s Stamford
JULY 16 EAST ANGRIER DIY PUNK WEEKENDER SLEEPS COUSIN + DAS KAPITANS + CALL TO THE FAITHFUL + MANIC + GOOD JOB KID + GET THE F OUTTA DODGE + RAT RACE + BAKER + ALL FALL DOWN
The Ploughman Werrington
OPEN MIC NIGHT The Falcon Whittlsely
JULY 21 ORIGINAL ACOUSTIC NIGHT – 3 MUSICIANS The Ostrich North Street
Ex Servicemen’s Club Thorney
The Crown Lincoln Road
The Peacock London Road
DB5
The Burghley Burghley Road
JULY 24 DNA – DAVID JAMES SMITH + ADAM LEON 4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
CANDY TWIST The Ploughman Werrington
TIGER CLUB 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
THE MONEY SHOT The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
JULY 28 ANDY HUGHES The Ostrich North Street
JULY 29 JANUS STARK Mama Liz’s Stamford Ticketed
DIRTY RUMOUR The Crown Lincoln Road
KICKBACK The Ostrich North Street
ALL KILLER NO FILLER The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
ACOUSTIC SESSIONS The Falcon Whittlesey
JULY 30 COSMIC RODNEY
JULY 22
The Burghley Burghley Road
THE KURMUJAN
VELOCITY
From 2pm The Ostrich North Street
THE TOURETTE’S
TRUE BRITISH MAYHEM
THE MIGHTY AND THE HIGH
LIVE BAND
The Burghley Burghley Road
THE NUGGETS The Crown Lincoln Road
JUNK PUPPETS Car Show Parson Drove
VERY BEAUTIFUL SOUTH 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
The Ostrich North Street
The Burghley Burghley Road
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
KICKBACK The Crown Lincoln Road
JULY 23 ARCTIC ROLL The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
THE 707 The Ostrich North Street
The Mason’s Arms Bourne
The Crown Lincoln Road
PORKY PIG The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
HUSH
Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
CLARKSDALE CONTRACT The Ostrich North Street
THE MIGHTY & THE HIGH Fletton Club Fletton
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DIRTY RUMOUR The Ploughman Werrington
JULY 31 JOE DRURY 4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
THE GANGSTERS 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
STEALER The Burghley Burghley Road
ONE EYED CATS
The Ploughman Werrington
AUG 13
THE SIDEKICKS
THE BOATMEN
707 BAND
LIVE BAND
4pm The Wheel Wisbech St Mary
KARA JONES The Limetree Paston Lane
LIVE BAND
UNCOVERED TAKEOVER
OSTRICH FEST – PALMY UKELELE BAND
2-5pm Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
RADIUS 45 The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
AUGUST AUG 4 OSTRICH FEST – THE HIGH ROLLERS 8pm The Ostrich North Street
OPEN MIC Mama Liz’s Stamford
AUG 5 ALL KILLER NO FILLER The Burghley Burghley Road
WRONG JOVI Mama Liz’s Stamford Ticketed
OSTRICH FEST – MARK STEVENS 7pm
FRANKLY MY DEAR 9.30pm The Ostrich North Street
CIRCA 73
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
UNDER THE COVERS The Crown Lincoln Road
AUG 7
2.30pm
JOHNNY QUINN 5.30pm The Ostrich North Street
The Burghley Burghley Road
THE NUGGETS The Crown Lincoln Road
VELOCITY The Ostrich North Street
THE MIGHTY & THE HIGH Charters Town Bridge
CLARKSDALE CONTRACT The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
DIRTY RUMOUR The London Inn Stamford
The Royal British Legion Yaxley
THE MONEY SHOT The Ostrich North Street
SEPTEMBER
BLACK ROSE
SEPT 2
MORNING GLORY
The Crown Lincoln Road
DIRTY RUMOUR The Grainstore Oakham
THE GANGSTERS DIRTY RUMOUR
8 FOOT UNDER
The Bell Tavern Deeping St James
QUINNY & BLANTY The Speakeasy Church Street Werrington
AUG 21
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road The Ostrich North Street
ACOUSTIC SESSIONS The Falcon Whittlesey
AUG 27
The Ploughman Werrington
BLACKOUT UK
STEVE MCGUIRE
GROOVE CARTELL
HIGH ROLLERS
1pm – 4pm
3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
CIRCA 73
VELOCITY
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
23 REASONS
LIVE BAND
The Ploughman Werrington
The Ploughman Werrington
OPEN MIC NIGHT
HUSH
Brewery Tap Westgate
The Riverside Bar Sutton Bridge
ARCTIC ROLL
DIZZY MISS LIZZYS
Raft Race Market Deeping
JESSIE’S GHOST + THE MONEY SHOT + THE FOO FIGHTERZ + SOUND TECH 12.30-7pm Iron Horse Ranch House Market Deeping
AUG 10 ACOUSTIC SESSIONS The Falcon Whittlesey
3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
AUG 16 OPEN MIC NIGHT The Falcon Whittlesey
OSTRICH FEST – SALMON DAVE
VELOCITY
DAN KNIGHT
4PLAY
2012 BAND
The Bluebell Werrington
The Dragonfly Herlington Centre
TWISTED + BURIED BY MY HEADACHE + FYZZ WALLIS BAND + PISTON DREAMS The Ostrich North Street
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road The Crown Lincoln Road
MADE IN THE VATICAN
AUG 23
THE AC/DC EXPERIENCE
STACEY’S OPEN MIC Peterborough Beer Festival The Embankment
AUG 24 THUMPER The Met Lounge Bridge Street Ticketed
GROOVE CARTELL
AUG 25
AUG 19
The Burghley Burghley Road
The Ostrich North Street
ORIGINALS ACOUSTIC NIGHT The Ostrich North Street
Peterborough Beer Festival The Embankment
The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
AUG 18
A PRESTO The Crown Lincoln Road
ALL THE SMALL THINGS
Peterborough Beer Festival The Embankment
AUG 6
The Ostrich North Street
3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
LAST MINUTE BRIGADE + THE EXPLETIVES Peterborough Beer Festival The Embankment
PALMY UKELELE BAND REHEARSAL The Ostrich North Street
AUG 26 PALMY UKELELE BAND + 23 REASONS + REVOLVER Peterborough Beer Festival The Embankment
FRANKLY MY DEAR
THE FAMOUS UNKNOWNS
The Burghley Burghley Road
DAVID JAMES SMITH
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
SEPT 9
CAUSTIC LIGHTS The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe
The Bell Deeping St James
RAMSHACKLE SERENADE
9.30pm The Ostrich North Street
THE EXPLETIVES
AUG 29
CANDY TWIST
THE ONE EYED CATS
BLACKTOP SUNRISE
BENT BACK TULIPS
The Crown Lincoln Road
The Queen’s Head City Centre
HEAD IN THE SAND FOLK SESSION
VELOCITY
AUG 12
5pm
The Burghley Burghley Road
ARCTIC ROLL
ANOTHER GIRL ANOTHER PLANET + MOTOR CITY VIPERS
AUG 14
The Crown Lincoln Road
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
AUG 20
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
CROWN CHARITY DAY – THE EXPLETIVES + LAST MINUTE BRIGADE + ANOTHER GIRL ANOTHER PLANET + THE LEGIONARIES 77 The Crown Lincoln Road
LAST MINUTE BRIGADE
The Met Lounge Bridge Street
A PRESTO The Ploughman Werrington
CANDY TWIST The Ostrich North Street
LET THERE B/DC Mama Liz’s Stamford
LEON
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
SEPT 3 SOUND INJECTORS The Burghley Burghley Road
HUSH
The Coopers Bretton
VINTAGE STUFF Charters Town Bridge
LIVE BAND The Ploughman Werrington
QUINNY & BLANTY The Bluebell Werrington
LIVE BAND The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
THE LAZOONS
JUNK PUPPETS The Crown Lincoln Road
THE MIGHTY & THE HIGH Post Office Club Bourges Boulevard
AUG 28 THE GANGSTERS 4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
SEPT 4 MELLOW SUBMARINE 4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
BROTHERHOODS ROUNDABOUT The Ploughman Werrington
BENT BACK TULIPS 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
OPEN MIC NIGHT
HIGH ROLLERS
SEPT 8
RETROLUX The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
The Ploughman Werrington
SEPT 10 RADIUS 45 The Burghley Burghley Road
BLACK DOG MURPHY The Ostrich North Street
CIRCA 73 Charters Town Bridge
STEALER The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
SEPT 11 HEAD IN THE SAND FOLK SESSION 1-4pm
THE LATIESHA MARIA BAND 4.30pm The Ostrich North Street
THE REAL THING
OUTLAW EAGLES
The Parkside Long Sutton
CAUSTIC LIGHTS
The Ploughman Werrington
OOMPA LOOMPA BAND
VELOCITY
DIRTY RUMOUR
The Crown Lincoln Road
The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
The Cresset Bretton Ticketed
LATINO SOUND 3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
The Ostrich North Street
The Ostrich North Street
LIVE BAND The Yard of Ale Oundle Road
The Burghley Burghley Road
2.30-5pm The Blue Bell Dogsthorpe Brewery Tap Westgate
THE KUT + SUPPORT The Ostrich North Street
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3-6pm Charters Town Bridge
TOMMY PHILPOT The Ploughman Werrington
SEPT 14 ACOUSTIC SESSIONS The Falcon Whittlesey
SEP 15 ORIGINALS ACOUSTIC NIGHT 3 MUSICIANS 8pm The Ostrich North Street
SEPT 16 THE MIGHTY & THE HIGH Yard of Ale Oundle Road
HI ON MAIDEN + FIREFALL The Met Lounge Bridge Street Ticketed
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