Self-taught songwriter lands two songs in UK Songwriting Contest final and wins 'Best Song' at Cannes

Self-taught songwriter and leader in the field of AI, Matthew Blakemore has landed two songs in the final of the UK Songwriting Contest, one of the world's longest-running international songwriting competitions, and won Best Song at the Cannes World Film Festival, all in the same year.

Blakemore's tracks Paper Cuts (Adult Contemporary) and Absence of Care (Singer-Songwriter) both reached the final of the 2025 UK Songwriting Contest (UKSC), now in its 24th year with entries from almost 100 countries. Finalists represent the top 1–2% of all entries. 

Two songs in the final from the same writer is a rare achievement. A third song, Why Say Sorry?, won the Best Song award at the Cannes World Film Festival.

Three songs. Three competitions. Two finals and a win.

Blakemore is entirely self-taught as a songwriter, he has never had a songwriting or music lesson outside of school, and has perfected his craft entirely on his own since the age of 16. 

He started writing songs as a teenager at John Henry Newman School in Stevenage, where music teacher Mr Wright selected one of his early compositions to be performed by the school choir. 

He went on to write songs for the charity Teens Unite Fighting Cancer and has received UKSC recognition across multiple years.

"When I was developing my craft, people used to laugh," says Blakemore. "They aren't laughing now."

By day, Blakemore is one of the UK's most prominent AI professionals. He is CEO of AI Caramba!, named AI Solutions Provider of the Year 2025, and serves as European Regional Director at Monarrch, known as 'The AI Royalty Company'. He was named in the Top 100 Influential People in AI (2025), awarded Forty Under 40 UK (2024), and is one of only four global Sub-Editors for ISO/IEC 8183, an international AI standard affecting 165+ countries.

Yet he never uses AI to write his lyrics. Not a single word.

"Every lyric comes from lived experience, the heartbreak, the joy, the frustration. That has to be human," says Blakemore. "What AI can do is help me realise the sound I hear in my head. I use it as a production tool to shape the music around my words, exactly as I envision it. That's empowerment, not replacement."

Blakemore uses AI music tools to iteratively shape and edit productions until they match his precise creative vision, a process far removed from the common misconception of simply typing a prompt and accepting whatever comes out.

His role at Monarrch places him at the centre of one of the biggest debates in the music industry right now: whether AI companies should compensate creators whose work is used to train AI models. Monarrch is developing a patent-pending AI Royalty Operating System (AIR-OS), designed to ensure fair remuneration for creators.

"I'm on the side of the creators," says Blakemore. "Not by blocking AI, but by making sure the people whose creativity feeds these models get their fair share."

This advocacy sits alongside his contributions to the EU AI Office's General-Purpose AI Code of Practice and his standards work through ISO/IEC and BSI, where he helps shape the governance frameworks that will determine how AI interacts with creative industries globally.

aicaramba.co.uk

Cambridge International Publishing Releases SG60 Anthology Featuring Over 500 Students: Now Available on Amazon

In celebration of Singapore’s 60th anniversary (SG60), a landmark literary project titled “Through Young Eyes: Singapore at 60” has been officially released.

The anthology, published by Cambridge International Publishing, features original essays and hand-drawn illustrations over 500 students representing a diverse cross-section of Singapore’s educational landscape, including Government and International schools.

This public welfare initiative was designed to provide a professional platform for the next generation to articulate their vision of the nation. 

Unlike traditional commercial publications, this project was entirely non-profit for the participants, ensuring the creative voices of children from all backgrounds were heard without financial barriers.

The collection is notable for its authenticity. Each essay is accompanied by student-created illustrations, offering a direct and genuine perspective on Singapore’s heritage and future, as seen through the eyes of its youngest citizens.

“Seeing 500 unique perspectives come together in one volume is a testament to the intellectual and creative vitality of Singapore’s youth,” the project lead at Cambridge International Publishing told That's Books and More.

“By publishing this work on global platforms like Amazon and making it available in physical bookstores, we are ensuring that these ‘New Voices’ are archived in the global cultural record.”

To celebrate the launch, a series of commemorative events are currently being held in Singapore. Young authors, accompanied by their families, are invited to collect their published works and certificates of achievement. 

These moments of recognition underscore the project’s mission: to foster a sense of national pride and scholarly accomplishment.

As a bridge between academic excellence and community contribution, this SG60 initiative demonstrates the power of independent publishing to document social milestones and empower emerging talent outside of traditional institutional constraints.

Cambridge International Publishing is an independent academic publisher based in Cambridgeshire, UK. The company focuses on promoting new voices and providing global platforms for intellectual and cultural exchange

https://www.cambridgepublish.com/main

School Library Association and Barrington Stoke launch new Reader of the Year Award in the National Year of Reading

Ahead of World Book Day, and to celebrate the National Year of Reading, the School Library Association (SLA) is launching a brand-new award in collaboration with one of the UK’s most innovative children’s publishers.

The Barrington Stoke Reader of the Year Award will be the only national award to celebrate young readers, recognising pupils in Year 7 and 8 who have overcome challenge to discover the joy of reading. 

The winner will receive £400 worth of Barrington Stoke books for their school library, a £100 book token for themselves, and a digital subscription to First News for both home and school.

Nominations are now open for the award, which celebrates engagement, enjoyment and determination over academic attainment or reading fluency. Awarded by the SLA, the Barrington Stoke Reader of the Year Award will also highlight the vital role school libraries and librarians play in getting the right books into the hands of the right pupils, helping every child develop their own positive relationship with reading.

Teachers, headteachers and school librarians from across the UK can nominate Year 7 and 8 pupils (S1 and S2 in Scotland). The closing date for nominations is Friday, 15th May, after which a prestigious judging panel will decide on a shortlist. 

The winner will be announced at the SLA’s Annual Awards Ceremony, taking place on 18th November 2026 in London.

Jane Walker, Sales & Marketing Director at Barrington Stoke, told That's Books and More: “At Barrington Stoke, young people are at the heart of everything we do, and we know that some of them face real challenges on the path to developing a love of reading. 

"We’re therefore thrilled to be working with the School Library Association, sponsoring an award to celebrate those readers, while also recognising the crucial role of the school librarians who support them on that journey.”

The judging panel will include SLA School Librarian of the Year 2025 – Julie Broadbent, author and SLA Patron Tom Palmer and Barrington Stoke author Catherine Johnson, as well as representatives from Barrington Stoke, the School Library Association and children’s newspaper First News, who will join the award as media partner.

Catherine Johnson said: “I am so excited to be a judge for the brand-new Barrington Stoke Reader of the Year Award! I firmly believe that school libraries and librarians are an integral part of any school community. And I am thrilled to help shine a light on those students – a vital part of those communities – who have found their way into books.”

Victoria Dilly, CEO of the SLA, said: “Launching a brand-new award that celebrates young readers puts children and young people at the heart of our National Year of Reading activity. We are thrilled to be joining forces with Barrington Stoke,  their focus on making books accessible to every reader makes them the perfect partner for an award specifically recognising young people who have had to overcome challenge to discover the joy of reading. 

"The Barrington Stoke Reader of the Year Award will celebrate the curiosity, empathy and imagination that all children and young people can unlock when they discover the joy of reading.

"With children’s reading for pleasure at an all-time low, and a mandatory Year 8 reading test soon to enter the curriculum, the need to celebrate children’s reading enjoyment has never been so important. We know that school libraries and school librarians help millions of children to develop more positive relationships with reading, and I can’t wait to hear about some of them.”

Nominations for the Barrington Stoke Reader of the Year Award can be made at: sla.org.uk/reader-of-the-year

https://collins.co.uk/pages/barrington-stoke

“Slough Is Not What You Think” — Town Launches Digital Hub to Power 2028 Culture Bid

A Digital Home for Slough’s Story, Creativity and Collective Voice.

Slough has today launched its official Town of Culture 2028 digital platform, designed to capture the town’s collective voice and showcase the full richness of its varied cultural life.

“This is Slough telling its story in its own words. It is time for the country to see the real Slough,” Vineet Vijh, the director of Viva Slough, the organisation responsible for creating and managing the digital platform told That's Books and More.

Hosted within The Slough Explorer at www.thesloughexplorer.org, the Town of Culture section is more than a campaign page. 

It's a vibrant, living cultural engine, consolidating the town’s creative energy, community voice and cultural activity into one powerful national showcase. 

It brings together residents’ ideas, stories, videos, photos, events and organisations in one accessible, living space.

The new platform has been designed as an interactive and evolving cultural ecosystem, featuring:

A Collective Story

Residents are invited to share what makes Slough special, from hidden gems and heritage to bold ideas for 2028. 

The website gathers public responses to the Town of Culture consultation questions, ensuring the bid is rooted in genuine community voice.

A Cultural Showcase

A curated gallery of videos and photographs highlights Slough’s vibrant present: dance performances, public art, food festivals, faith celebrations, digital innovation, youth creativity and grassroots initiatives.

The aim is simple: to show the country what Slough already knows: that culture here is alive, diverse and forward-thinking.

A Living “What’s On” Directory

The website consolidates arts and cultural listings across the town into a single, regularly updated directory. 

From exhibitions and theatre to sports, music, workshops and community gatherings, residents and visitors can now find everything happening in one place.

Directory of Artists & Organisations

A searchable database of local creatives, cultural organisations and community groups strengthens collaboration and visibility, thus making it easier to commission, connect and celebrate Slough’s talent.

Designed for Residents, Built for the Nation

The website has been designed to serve two audiences:

• Local residents, who want to feel connected and proud of their town

• National audiences, who are curious to discover a modern British town redefining itself through creativity

An early user of the platform, local resident Aniruddha Jamadar, shared: “I had no idea there was so much happening in Slough until I saw everything in one place. 

"It makes you realise how creative this town really is. It is practical, inspiring and genuinely useful.”

A Digital Front Door to a Changing Town

Slough’s bid positions the town as a modern British powerhouse, blending heritage with technology, grassroots creativity with global industries that power the UK economy.

Unlike a static campaign page, the Slough Town of Culture website will continue to evolve throughout the bid process and beyond. 

Slough residents are encouraged to submit photos, videos, ideas and event listings, ensuring the platform grows organically alongside the movement.

Slough is one of the youngest towns in the country, economically dynamic and culturally rich. Through this new digital home, it invites the rest of the United Kingdom to see the reality behind the headlines: a town powered by community, creativity and confidence.

Tarcila Broder, the designer of the platform, said, “The digital hub aims to consolidate information that is often scattered across social media and individual websites, making Slough’s cultural offer more visible both locally and nationally. It uses AI agents to search for and consolidate information, saving significant time on manual updates. It is indeed a platform built for the future”

Get Involved

Residents, artists and organisations can explore the site and contribute at:

www.thesloughexplorer.org

Follow and support the campaign using:

#Slough2028 #UKTownOfCulture2028

Bespoke Manchester Jeweller Lands Role in Award-Winning Experian TV Campaign After Daughter Gets Cast First

Didsbury-based bespoke jeweller Abdulla 'Bud' Mulki almost didn't send his self-tape. Six days later, he was on an international film set in Bulgaria. Then his daughter was asked to compose the music.

Abdulla 'Bud' Mulki, founder of independent bespoke jewellery studio Si Vis Amari, has appeared in Experian's major new "Better Your Story" TV campaign after an unlikely chain of events that began with his daughter landing a role first.

The campaign, created by BBH London and named Ad of the Day by The Drum and one of the Clio Awards' 5 Ads of the Week, reimagines the classic nursery rhyme "There Was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe."

It follows a family living in a worn-out Converse sneaker who improve their credit score with Experian and upgrade to a spacious cowboy boot.

Mulki's daughter Maissa, a talented composer, musician and actress, was originally cast as one of the children. Maissa is no stranger to major productions, having previously appeared in commercials for Very, Apple and Yamaha Music. 

A gifted musician, she was named Musician of the Year at Xaverian College and was double shortlisted for the BBC Young Composer of the Year award.

The production team then asked the families to send in photos of the dads. They liked the look of Mulki and requested an improv self-tape.

"I nearly didn't bother," says Mulki. "I'm a jeweller, not an actor, and I was busy with work. But I didn't want to spoil it for my daughter, so I sent one in. They loved it, and the next thing I knew I was on a plane to Bulgaria."

What followed was a six-day shoot on a purpose-built set that took months to construct, featuring two life-size shoe builds. 

The commercial was directed by award-winning director Tom Noakes through production company Business Club, with cinematography by James L Brown, who had recently wrapped a Netflix series in Colombia. Mulki was put up in five-star accommodation at the Hilton with all expenses paid.

During filming, Noakes asked Mulki "is this your first gig Bud?". When Mulki confirmed it was, the director told him he was a natural and should pursue more work. The production team nicknamed him "King Bud" and referred to him and Maissa as "the Dream Team" for their chemistry on set with cast and crew.

At the wrap party, Mulki spotted an opportunity to champion his daughter's composing talent and mentioned it to Noakes. The director asked to see her CV. A couple of weeks after post-production, Noakes messaged back saying he was impressed by how gifted she was for her age, and told Mulki to leave it with him.

Shortly after, BBH's production team called to ask Maissa to demo the music for the commercial. She was then contacted by Wake The Town, a music supervision company in London, and was briefed on the project. Maissa composed the music along with three alternate endings. Her work was shortlisted, but the production ultimately chose another composer's piece.

The experience didn't hold her back. Noakes later reached out to Maissa directly with a message that read: "I never got to debrief with you after the agency decided to move forward with another composer. I simply want to express how impressive your piece of music is, which is remarkable considering your age, but equally that nobody else knew that. It was in the running because it was impressive on its own merit. Well done."

Maissa is now preparing to study composition at Leeds Conservatoire next year under Tom Harold, a former winner of the BBC Young Composer of the Year award and notable UK composer.

"The whole experience was surreal," says Mulki. "One minute I'm at my desk in Didsbury designing engagement rings, the next I'm on an international film set being directed by someone who has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. And then my daughter gets asked to compose the music. It all started because Maissa got the part first."

The commercial is now running across TV, cinema, VOD, out-of-home, radio, digital and social channels nationwide, with media handled by PHD.

Taking the director's advice to heart, Mulki has since been signed by Manchester talent agency The Drama Mob, whose roster includes Owen Cooper, the English actor who gained international recognition for his debut role as teenaged murder suspect Jamie Miller in the hit Netflix miniseries Adolescence (2025).

By day, Mulki continues to run Si Vis Amari from two studios in Manchester: a flagship in Didsbury Village and a second in the city centre. Originally Syrian and born in Edinburgh, he designs bespoke engagement and wedding rings using 3D sculpting software originally developed for the animation industry. Every ring is designed personally to tell a story and manufactured in the UK. Si Vis Amari is a member of the National Association of Jewellers and has created bespoke pieces for notable UK celebrities.

Valle Venia presents new song by LPS feat. Lara: Where will it take me

The song describes the challenge of trusting the flow, relying on oneself, following one's own values with confidence.

In a time when everything seems to begin to dissolve, when disorientation prevails more than ever and when one is searching for something to hold on to, certainty can be found in uncertainty.

Lara's authentic interpretation, with her multi-faceted voice, conveys confidence in finding a way for oneself and others.

In the faceless, noisy crowd, where glances are not returned and touches are not felt, one is pulled away by an invisible hand.

You are on your own, but somewhere there is a light and a hope that guides you when the fog lifts and you find yourself in the certainty of meeting someone who “can read my mind and my soul.”

Invisibly connected, across time and space, this path is open.

Multilink: https://valevenia.lnk.to/wherewillittakeme

Youtube: https://youtu.be/0MVTgXO2E_M

Website: www.valle-venia.com

World Poetry Day: Why Words Still Matter

Every year on 21 March, readers, writers and dreamers mark World Poetry Day,a global celebration of rhythm, language and the power of a well-placed line. 

Established by UNESCO in 1999, the day recognises poetry as one of humanity’s most treasured forms of expression.

In a world of scrolling feeds and short attention spans, poetry remains quietly radical. It slows us down. It asks us to notice. And sometimes, it says in ten lines what an essay cannot manage in a thousand words.

A Tradition That Endures

From the Romantic landscapes of William Wordsworth to the powerful civil rights verse of Maya Angelou, poetry has always reflected the spirit of its age.

In Ireland, Seamus Heaney captured rural life with extraordinary clarity, while across the Atlantic Emily Dickinson reshaped the possibilities of form and voice.

Yet poetry is not confined to literary giants. It lives in spoken word nights in local cafés, in classroom anthologies, in lyrics that blur the line between song and sonnet, and in personal notebooks filled with half-finished thoughts.

Why World Poetry Day Still Matters

World Poetry Day is not simply about revisiting the classics. It is about:

Encouraging the reading, writing and teaching of poetry

Supporting small publishers and independent presses

Promoting linguistic diversity

Giving voice to communities often unheard

Poetry thrives in every language. From Welsh cynghanedd to contemporary slam, from haiku to free verse, the form adapts while its purpose remains the same: to express something true.

Poetry and Well-Being

There is also something deeply restorative about poetry. Reading a poem can feel like a moment of stillness in a noisy world. Writing one can help untangle emotions that prose struggles to hold.

Short forms, in particular, are accessible. A haiku written on a walk. A reflective sonnet inspired by a change in season. Even a few carefully chosen lines scribbled in the margins of a diary can offer clarity.

In an age that often prioritises productivity, poetry gently reminds us that reflection is valuable too.

Simple Ways to Celebrate

World Poetry Day does not require grand gestures. You might:

Revisit a favourite poem from school

Share a short verse on social media

Attend a local reading or open-mic night

Support an independent bookshop or small press

Write a poem about something ordinary, the weather, your commute, your morning tea

Poetry begins with attention. And attention is something we can all practise.

Poetry has survived centuries of social upheaval, technological change and shifting tastes. It endures because it speaks to something essential – our need to feel understood and to understand others.

On World Poetry Day, perhaps the simplest celebration is this: pause, read a poem slowly, and let the words do their quiet work.

https://www.unesco.org/en/days/poetry

Celebrating World Book Day: Stories That Shape Us

There are few things more powerful than a good book. It can transport us across centuries, introduce us to unforgettable characters, and help us see the world, and ourselves, in a completely new way. 

World Book Day is a joyful reminder of exactly that.

In the UK, World Book Day is celebrated each March with a clear mission: to encourage children and young people to discover the pleasure of reading. 

Schools fill with witches, wizards, superheroes and storybook animals, while book tokens make it easier for families to add something new to their shelves.

But beyond the costumes and classroom celebrations lies something deeper: the idea that reading is not a chore, but a lifelong gift.

Why World Book Day Still Matters

In a world of short-form video and constant scrolling, carving out time to read can feel increasingly rare. Yet research consistently shows that reading for pleasure improves vocabulary, concentration, empathy and mental wellbeing.

Books allow us to:

Step into lives wildly different from our own

Understand complex emotions in safe, reflective ways

Strengthen focus in an age of distraction

Relax and reduce stress

For children especially, owning a book can be transformative. That’s why the World Book Day £1 token scheme is such a simple but powerful idea – it removes barriers and puts stories directly into young hands.

It’s Not Just for Children

Although schools are at the heart of the celebration, grown-ups shouldn’t sit this one out.

World Book Day is the perfect excuse to:

Revisit a childhood favourite

Finally start that novel gathering dust on your bedside table

Explore a new genre

Support a local independent bookshop

There’s something rather satisfying about walking into a bookshop on World Book Day and seeing tables stacked high with carefully curated titles. Whether you lean towards crime thrillers, historical fiction, memoir, or poetry, there’s always something waiting to surprise you.

Supporting Independent Bookshops

One of the best ways to mark the occasion is by visiting an independent bookseller. These shops are more than retail spaces – they’re cultural hubs, run by passionate readers who genuinely love matching people with the right book.

Independent bookshops:

Champion local authors

Host readings and community events

Offer thoughtful recommendations

Keep high streets interesting and diverse

In an era of convenience shopping, choosing to buy locally keeps literary culture alive in our towns and cities.

Creating Your Own World Book Day Tradition

Why not turn it into an annual ritual?

You might:

Gift a book instead of a card for birthdays around this time of year

Host a family reading night

Swap books with friends

Start a themed reading challenge

Even something simple,a quiet cup of tea and twenty uninterrupted minutes with a novel, can feel like a small act of rebellion against the noise of modern life.

The Bigger Picture

At its heart, World Book Day isn’t really about costumes or discounts. It’s about access, imagination, and opportunity. A single story can spark ambition, comfort a lonely child, or ignite a lifelong passion.

Books don’t just entertain us. They shape our thinking, expand our compassion, and sometimes even change the direction of our lives.

So whether you’re dressing up, browsing your local shelves, or simply rediscovering the joy of reading at home, take a moment to appreciate the quiet magic of the written word.

Because stories matter. And they always will.

https://www.worldbookday.com

https://literacytrust.org.uk/about-us/world-book-day-national-literacy-trust

Soloists announced for performance of Haydn's "The Creation"

Sheffield music lovers are being promised a spectacular summer evening as Sheffield Chamber Orchestra has announced the three soloists for its forthcoming performance of The Creation on 13 June 2026.

The landmark oratorio by Joseph Haydn will be conducted by John Lyon and performed in collaboration with Sheffield City Choristers, bringing together orchestra, chorus and a distinguished trio of guest soloists.

Taking the soprano role is Claire Lees, a Lancashire-born singer who trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. 

An alumna of the prestigious Samling Artist Programme and winner of the Wil Keune Mozart Prize, she has appeared at leading venues including Wigmore Hall and Glyndebourne Festival Opera. A member of the Chorus of Opera North, she combines operatic flair with the clarity and poise required for Haydn’s luminous writing.

Joining her is Hartlepool-born tenor Tom Smith, who studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music. Smith has performed with Glyndebourne Festival Opera, Welsh National Opera and the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and has worked with internationally renowned conductors. An experienced recitalist and oratorio singer, he brings both dramatic presence and lyrical warmth to the role.

Completing the trio is Derbyshire baritone Andrew Randall. A graduate of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Randall has appeared with Opera North and The Grange Festival in a wide range of principal and cover roles. Alongside his performing career, he teaches singing at several schools and sings regularly at Sheffield Cathedral, giving him strong local ties.

Haydn’s The Creation remains one of the most celebrated choral-orchestral works ever written. First performed in 1798, it depicts the Biblical story of the world’s formation, from chaos and darkness to the radiant chorus “And there was light.” Its vivid orchestration, dramatic storytelling and joyful final choruses have ensured its place as a cornerstone of the repertoire.

Conductor John Lyon, well known to Sheffield audiences for his energetic and engaging approach, will lead the combined forces in what promises to be a highlight of the city’s summer cultural calendar.

Before that, the orchestra turns its attention to its next concert, Great Classical Masterpieces, on 21 March 2026. The programme features Egmont Overture by Ludwig van Beethoven, Violin Concerto No. 1 by Max Bruch performed by Sheffield-born rising star Esme Greenwood, and Symphony No. 2 by Johannes Brahms — a programme of orchestral favourites that showcases the ensemble at full strength.

Further details and ticket information for both concerts are available via the Sheffield Chamber Orchestra website www.SCOrchestra.uk

Special Guest Iain Lauchlan Joins Coventry Orchestra for World Poetry Day Concert

The Heart of England Co-operative Concert Orchestra invites the local community to a vibrant and imaginative Spring Concert celebrating World Poetry Day through music and spoken word.

Taking place at 3pm on Saturday 21st March at Methodist Central Hall, Warwick Lane, Coventry, CV1 2HA, this special concert will feature guest narrator Iain Lauchlan, bringing poetry and storytelling together with thrilling orchestral favourites.

The programme promises something for all ages, including the swashbuckling adventure of Pirates of the Caribbean, the dramatic intensity of Hall of the Mountain King, and the playful brilliance of Jabberwocky!,  alongside many more musical surprises inspired by literature, legend and imagination.

All proceeds from the concert will go towards Earlsdon Carnegie Community Library, supporting its vital work as a community hub promoting literacy, learning and access to books for all ages. By attending, audiences will be helping to sustain a valued local resource at the heart of Coventry.

Tickets are priced at £11 for adults, £8 concessions, and just £1 for under 16s. Tickets are available online via Ticketsource and on the door.

Now in its 107th year, the Heart of England Co-operative Concert Orchestra continues to play a central role in Coventry’s musical life. Proudly sponsored by the Heart of England Co-operative Society, the orchestra brings together musicians from across the region to share live music while raising funds for important community causes. 

In 2025, they raised over £3,500 for charities including Coventry City Mission, Global Care, the Durrell Foundation, and MacMillan Cancer Care.

Join them for an afternoon of music, poetry and adventure, and raise funds for a valued local resource at the same time!

https://www.coventrycooporchestra.org.uk

That's Books and More will be carrying more information on World Poetry Day, so please keep an eye open for that. 

World Thinking Day 2026 – Celebrating “Our Friendship”

Every year on 22 February, members of Girlguiding and the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) celebrate World Thinking Day, a moment to reflect on the global sisterhood that connects millions of girls and young women.

In 2026, the theme is beautifully simple and deeply powerful: “Our Friendship.”

At a time when the world can often feel divided, the idea of friendship, across borders, backgrounds, beliefs and generations — feels especially meaningful.

Why World Thinking Day Matters

World Thinking Day began in 1926 as a way for Guides and Scouts around the globe to think of one another and give thanks for their shared movement. It falls on the birthday of Olave Baden-Powell, the first Chief Guide, and her husband Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scouting movement.

Over the past century, it has grown into a truly international celebration involving more than 150 countries. It’s a day to:

Learn about different cultures

Support global projects

Reflect on shared values

Raise funds for guiding initiatives worldwide

But at its heart, it has always been about connection.

2026 Theme: “Our Friendship”

The 2026 theme invites girls and leaders to explore what friendship really means, not just in a personal sense, but as part of a worldwide community.

Friendship in guiding is:

The new Brownie making her first promise

The Ranger supporting a younger member

The international pen pal or jamboree connection

The lifelong friendships that begin around a campfire

It’s also about understanding that girls in the UK share experiences, challenges and hopes with girls in Kenya, Canada, India or Brazil.

“Our Friendship” reminds us that guiding isn’t just local, it’s global.

How Units Can Celebrate

Whether you’re a Rainbow unit in a village hall or a Guide group meeting in a city centre, there are countless ways to bring the theme to life.

1. Friendship Across Borders

Explore guiding traditions from another country. Cook a simple international snack, learn a song from abroad, or exchange letters or videos with another unit.

2. Acts of Kindness

Encourage members to perform small acts of friendship within their community, writing thank-you notes, supporting a local charity, or checking in on someone who may feel lonely.

3. Friendship Crafts

Create friendship bracelets, badges, or a collaborative mural representing what friendship looks like to your group.

4. Story Sharing

Invite members to share stories of how guiding has helped them build confidence, resilience and meaningful relationships.

A Wider Reflection on Friendship

In the UK, where many communities are wonderfully diverse, World Thinking Day offers a gentle reminder that understanding begins with listening.

Friendship doesn’t require identical views or identical lives. It asks for respect, curiosity and kindness.

For young people growing up in a world of social media and digital communication, “Our Friendship” also opens a conversation about:

Online kindness

Digital responsibility

Supporting one another in safe spaces

Building real-world confidence

Friendship Beyond the Movement

While rooted in guiding, World Thinking Day’s message extends far beyond uniforms and badges. It’s a reminder for all of us, parents, leaders, teachers and communities, that friendship is an active practice.

It requires effort.

It requires empathy.

It requires presence.

In 2026, perhaps the most meaningful way to mark World Thinking Day is simply to reach out, to someone new, or someone we haven’t spoken to in a while.

World Thinking Day 2026’s theme, “Our Friendship,” feels both timely and timeless. It celebrates the small, everyday bonds that quietly shape young lives, and the extraordinary global network that links girls across continents.

In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain, friendship remains a steady, hopeful thread.

And that is certainly something worth thinking about.

Model Britain has formally transitioned from concept to structured delivery with the convening of its inaugural Advisory Board

Model Britain has formally transitioned from concept to structured delivery with the convening of its inaugural Advisory Board.

This milestone establishes the governance framework for a project set to become one of the UK’s most ambitious cultural and educational attractions.

Model Britain’s vision is to Explore, Imagine, Inspire. The project will be a stunning large-scale, permanent indoor miniature attraction celebrating British history, innovation, and landscapes.

Developed at substantial national scale, it is designed to operate at significant visitor capacity and to offer an immersive experience that blends excitement with deep educational value for children and adults alike.

The attraction will include a structured education programme aligned to national curriculum themes, supporting history, geography, design and technology, and STEM learning for school groups, nationwide. 

The project enters development at a time of renewed national focus on the UK’s experience economy and regional tourism growth, positioning Model Britain to contribute meaningfully to both cultural and economic priorities.

An Advisory Board with National-Level Expertise

Model Britain’s Advisory Board brings together senior leaders who have shaped some of the UK’s most significant visitor destinations, global brands, and cultural institutions:

Gary McCauley – Founder and CEO: Originator of the Model Britain concept, leading the project from initial design through to structured national delivery.

Peter Moore OBE – Chair: Former Managing Director of Center Parcs UK and Director of Marketing and Repositioning at Alton Towers. Awarded an OBE for services to tourism and former Board Member of Visit England.

Martin Grieve – Financial Oversight: Former senior finance executive at Unilever and Reckitt, with national and global divisional CFO experience and corporate finance leadership expertise across capital allocation, investment strategy, and governance.

John F. D. Hoy FRICS – Heritage & Destination Strategy: Former Chief Executive of Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard, current Chair of Silverstone Museum, former Visit England Board Member, and Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Mark Jones – Visitor Operations: Former UK Operations Director at Center Parcs and Operations Director at the Eden Project, with extensive experience managing large-scale, high volume visitor attractions.

Alex Mawer – Marketing & Brand Strategy: Marketing & Brand Strategy: Former Global Marketing Director at the LEGO Group with oversight of LEGOLAND attractions, former Marketing Director of Visit England and current Board Member of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT).

Simon Kohler – Models & Hobbies: Former Marketing & Development Director at Hornby Hobbies, instrumental in revitalising iconic British brands including Hornby Railways, Scalextric, and Airfix.

Together, the Advisory Board provides strategic oversight across governance, finance, operations, brand, tourism attractions, heritage, and sector engagement.

Peter Moore OBE, Chair of Model Britain, told That's Books and More: “Model Britain represents a rare opportunity to create a national institution that blends heritage, education, and innovation. 

"Establishing strong governance at this stage ensures the project is developed with the rigour, integrity, and long-term ambition required for an attraction of this scale.”

Gary McCauley, Founder and CEO, added: “This milestone marks the transition from long-held vision to disciplined delivery. With the experience of the Advisory Board now formally guiding the project, we are ensuring that each stage of development is approached with clarity, realism, and strong governance.”

Looking Ahead

The project team is currently assessing a number of strategically significant UK locations with strong infrastructure and national connectivity. Model Britain is also actively engaging with strategic partners across the technology, heritage, travel, and education sectors who share a vision for celebrating British innovation at scale. A formal opening timeline will be confirmed following site acquisition and planning approval.

FACTFILE: Model Britain is a pioneering national project dedicated to creating a world-class, large-scale indoor miniature attraction. By blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, it aims to showcase the UK’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and spirit of innovation. The project is designed to serve families, schools, tourists, and international visitors.

To learn more visit www.modelbritain.co.uk

John Betjeman – Slough (1937) A Critical Analysis

Context and Overview

Slough was written in 1937, at a time when Britain was experiencing rapid industrial expansion in certain areas, particularly along new arterial roads and trading estates. 

The Slough Trading Estate was one of the largest industrial estates in Europe at the time, and had become a symbol of modern commercial development. 

Betjeman’s poem is a fierce satirical attack on this emerging industrial landscape and what he saw as the cultural and spiritual emptiness it represented.

The poem opens with the shocking invocation:

“Come friendly bombs and fall on Slough!”

This startling first line immediately establishes tone and technique: hyperbolic satire. The speaker calls for destruction not out of literal malice, but to express moral outrage at what Slough symbolises — soulless modernity, speculative building, and the erosion of England’s pastoral and architectural heritage.

Satire and Hyperbole

Betjeman’s tone is exaggerated and ironic throughout. His call for bombs, written only two years before the outbreak of the Second World War, now carries a dark historical irony. 

Yet within the poem’s 1937 context, it functions as a grotesque exaggeration designed to provoke and shock.

The town is depicted as:

Spiritually barren

Architecturally ugly

Morally empty

Phrases such as “tinned fruit, tinned meat, tinned milk” create a rhythm of artificiality and uniformity. The repetition of “tinned” suggests not just preserved food but preserved, mechanised lives — sealed, standardised and devoid of freshness. Industrial capitalism becomes something embalmed and lifeless.

Industrial Modernity vs. Rural England

A central tension in Slough is the clash between industrial progress and the older vision of England that Betjeman cherished. He was known for his affection for Victorian architecture and rural landscapes. In this poem, modern business culture appears sterile and spiritually corrosive:

“And get that man with double chin

Who’ll always cheat and always win…”

Here Betjeman satirises the figure of the profit-driven businessman — physically unappealing, morally suspect, and emblematic of unregulated capitalism.

The poem suggests that economic “progress” has replaced beauty, craftsmanship and community with speculative building and profit margins. Slough becomes shorthand for a new England dominated by concrete, office blocks and commuter culture.

Rhythm and Structure

The poem uses a jaunty, almost nursery-rhyme rhythm. This lightness contrasts sharply with the violence of its opening line and the severity of its criticism. The regular rhyme scheme and bouncy cadence intensify the satire; the poem sounds cheerful while expressing destructive wishes.

This contrast creates tension:

Cheerful rhythm

Bitter content

The form mirrors the hypocrisy Betjeman perceives — pleasant surfaces masking ugliness beneath.

Moral and Spiritual Emptiness

One of the poem’s most powerful themes is spiritual decay. Betjeman portrays Slough as lacking imagination, art and emotional depth:

“There isn’t grass to graze a cow.”

This line functions symbolically. The absence of grass implies not merely urbanisation but the eradication of organic life. Nature has been replaced by asphalt and warehouses.

The town is portrayed as mechanised, joyless and culturally thin — a place of mass-produced existence rather than individual identity.

Historical Irony

After the Blitz began in 1940, Betjeman reportedly expressed regret over the poem’s opening line. The reality of bombs falling on English towns made the satire uncomfortably literal. 

This historical development complicates modern readings of the poem. What was once exaggerated rhetoric gained tragic resonance.

Today, the poem may feel less like a call for destruction and more like a cultural lament — a warning about unthinking development and the loss of heritage.

Is the Poem Fair?

A critical reading must ask whether Betjeman’s portrayal is exaggerated and elitist. Slough provided employment during the interwar depression and represented economic opportunity for many. From another perspective, it symbolised modern resilience rather than decay.

Thus, the poem can be read in two ways:

A sharp and prophetic critique of soulless industrialisation.

A nostalgic, perhaps reactionary rejection of social change.

Betjeman’s conservatism informs the poem’s perspective. His love of architectural tradition and Anglican England shapes his disdain for commercial modernity.

Conclusion

Slough remains one of Betjeman’s most provocative poems. Its biting satire, exaggerated invective and rhythmic irony create a powerful critique of 1930s industrial expansion. Yet it is also a poem rooted in anxiety — about modernity, capitalism, and the erosion of a particular vision of England.

Rather than simply attacking a town, Betjeman attacks a mindset: one that prioritises profit over beauty and efficiency over soul. The poem endures because its questions about development, heritage and cultural identity remain relevant today.

You can read the poem here https://internetpoem.com/john-betjeman/slough-poem

Incidentally Slough is working hard to become UK Town of Culture for 2028 

https://thatsbooks.blogspot.com/2026/02/viva-slough-slough-announces-bid-for-uk.html

Viva Slough! Slough announces bid for UK Town of Culture 2028

Poet John Betjeman had some rather harsh words for Slough:

Come friendly bombs and fall on Slough!

It isn't fit for humans now,

There isn't grass to graze a cow.

Swarm over, Death!

(In my next blogpost I will provide a critical perspective on the poem by John Betjaman and why he was actually pro-Slough, rather than against it.)

I think that he would be pleased and impressed with the news that Slough has announced its intention to bid for UK Town of Culture 2028, launching a bold campaign to reshape how the town is seen nationally. 

The bid aims to dismantle decades of unfair reputations and tired “The Office” stereotypes, replacing them with a confident, future-facing story of creativity, connectivity and cultural energy.

The bid sets out to move beyond long-standing perceptions and present Slough as a place defined by its people and its role in the UK’s digital and economic infrastructure. Organisers emphasise that the focus will not be on a single year of events, but on using culture to support skills development, community participation and pride in place.

Slough is one of the youngest and most ethnically diverse towns in the UK and sits at the heart of the Thames Valley economy. 

It's also home to major data centres and digital infrastructure that support large parts of the UK’s internet traffic. 

Located next to Heathrow Airport, the town has long been shaped by migration, movement and global connections.

A new Town of Culture Steering Group is being formed to oversee the bid, bringing together representatives from business, education, the voluntary sector, culture and youth organisations. The group will be chaired by Rob Deeks MBE, chief executive of Together As One, who was recently awarded an MBE for his services to young people and the community in Slough, recognising his long-standing work supporting and empowering young people across the town.

Rob Deeks told That's Books and More: “Our bid for Town of Culture will be rooted in Slough’s everyday stories, its resilience, and its creative ambitions. 

"Culture here is expressed through the arts and events, but also through how people come together, share identity, and shape the place they live. It is about making space for everyone to participate, belong, and thrive.”

Slough’s bid is not built on aspiration alone. It is rooted in a vibrant and evolving cultural landscape. It has internationally connected music and dance communities, contemporary public art transforming everyday spaces, and is at the heart of Britain's Film and Television Industry with a pool of creative talent. 

Slough is already a place where culture is lived, not staged. Culture is expressed through faith traditions, community choirs, spoken word, visual arts, grassroots theatre and digital creativity.

Slough is already a place where culture is lived, not staged.

Slough’s heritage is industrial, migratory and entrepreneurial, a story of reinvention, resilience and contribution to the national economy, and the 2028 bid will celebrate this living, working, creating town in all its richness.

The bid will be managed by Vineet Vijh, Director of community organisation Viva Slough, who has been leading wider efforts to promote culture, wellbeing and skills development across the town.

Vineet Vijh told us: “Slough doesn’t need reinvention, but it does need recognition. We are digitally connected, globally diverse and full of creative energy. Town of Culture gives us the chance to turn those strengths into pride, opportunity and long-term change.”

Get Involved

The bid team is launching a month of intensive community consultation to ensure the final proposal is truly “built by Slough, for Slough”. This will include:

Town Hall Meetings – open forums for residents to share their ‘Untold Slough’ stories

Youth Summits – sessions in schools, colleges and youth centres throughout February and March

Public Webinar (3 March) – an open invitation for anyone interested in, or curious about, the bid

Small Business Briefing (24 February) – delivered in collaboration with the Federation of Small Businesses, supporting entrepreneurs and developers to align their projects with the 2028 vision

Developer Forum (23 February) – discussions with property developers interested in investment and development in Slough

Early responses from residents, local arts organisations and businesses have been positive.

Toby Kress, Chief Executive of Plus X Innovation, said the bid reflected wider changes in how places like Slough are viewed.

“Slough is already a powerhouse of innovation and talent. Town of Culture 2028 is an opportunity to connect that innovation to creativity and community, and to put Slough firmly on the national and international map.”

Gozan John, a 17-year-old A-level student at St Bernards school, said she welcomed the opportunity for young people to be directly involved in shaping the bid.

“So often decisions about places are made without young people being properly involved. What’s exciting about this bid is that our voices are being taken seriously from the start. Slough is full of young talent and ideas, and this feels like a real chance to for them to help shape the town we want to grow up in.”

Seema Kamboj, Director of arts organisation Apna Virsa (Our Heritage), which has been running for over 17 years and works with more than 5,000 Slough residents, said:

“Slough has always been rich in talent, ambition and diversity. What’s been missing is the platform to tell that story on our own terms. This bid is about unlocking the creativity of our different communities, young and old, and showing the country what modern Britain really looks like.”

The bid has the full support of Slough Borough Council, local MP Tan Dhesi, and Council Leader Dexter Smith, all of whom will actively support the campaign.

The UK Town of Culture competition is run by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The winning town will receive £3 million in funding and hold the title for one year, though organisers stress that bids are assessed on long-term impact rather than the scale of individual events.

Slough is competing in the large town category. The deadline for submitting an Expression of Interest is 31 March 2026.

https://vivaslough.org

Young Generation Art Award 2026 Ceremony

The Young Generation Art Award was initiated by Degussa in cooperation with the art magazine Monopol in 2024 and presented for the first time in 2025. 

The award was presented to the first winner during a solo exhibition at the international art exhibition Frieze 2025 in London.

The prize supports aspiring artists at the beginning of their careers.

In the second year of the award, five artists were selected for the shortlist exhibition from a pool of around 400 candidates. 

Of these five, the panel of experts, comprising Elke Buhr, Yilmaz Dziewior and Maya Heckelmann, chose artist Ken Nwadiogbu to receive this year’s Young Generation Art Award 2026.

The award ceremony was held in the Hotel de Rome in Berlin on 19 February 2026. Christian Rauch, CEO of Degussa, presented the prize to the London-based Nigerian artist Ken Nwadiogbu.

The experts highlight the following in their reasoning: Ken Nwadiogbu’s art is technically virtuositic, exceptionally evocative and multifaceted. 

He masterfully combines elaborate, hyperrealistic figuration with expressive, abstract backgrounds to take his place in artistic modernity in complex style. 

He honours the members of the Black community and lets them shine in his bright yellow portraits based on photographs taken of people around him.

"Ken Nwadiogbu seamlessly blends technical sophistication, emotional depth and social relevance in a way that deeply moves us all," Christian Rauch told That's Books and More.

The winner receives €10,000 in prize money, an individual exhibition at Frieze London 2026 and a one-year travelling exhibition that will be shown at a number of international locations. The other finalists receive an exhibition fee of €3,000.

Judges: Elke Buhr (Editor-in-chief of Monopol), Yilmaz Dziewior (Director of Museum Ludwig in Cologne), Maya Heckelmann (Art and culture sponsoring at Degussa).

degussa.com

That's Food and Drink: The Beefy Boys Fire Up Summer 2026 With New Book '...

That's Food and Drink: The Beefy Boys Fire Up Summer 2026 With New Book '...: The Beefy Boys have announced they are to release their second cookbook this summer. The Beefy Boys' Great British BBQ will be released ...

Legacy Youth Zone, Croydon Appoints DJ Semtex as Music Ambassador

Legacy Youth Zone Croydon is proud to announce the appointment of renowned broadcaster, DJ, and music tastemaker DJ Semtex as its official Music Ambassador, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative talent in Croydon and beyond.

As Music Ambassador, DJ Semtex will support Legacy Youth Zone’s growing creative and music programmes, helping to inspire young people through mentorship, industry insight, and advocacy. 

His involvement marks a significant milestone for the Youth Zone, which has become a vibrant hub for emerging artists, producers, lyricists, and songwriters.

DJ Semtex brings decades of experience at the forefront of British music culture, having played a pivotal role in championing UK talent on both national and international stages. His passion for youth development and authentic creative expression aligns strongly with Legacy Youth Zone’s mission to provide young people with access to opportunities, resources, and safe spaces to explore their potential.

Legacy Youth Zone has been supported by funding from Sony Music UK’s award-winning Social Justice Fund, an extension of Sony Music Group’s $100m global initiative whose mission is to tackle injustice and racism by empowering organisations that drive social change. DJ Semtex is also a founding member of the UK Social Justice Fund.

Speaking on his new role, DJ Semtex told That's Books and More: "The Legacy Youth Zone is an amazing home to Croydon's emerging artist community. It is truly inspiring to see the next generation of lyricists, songwriters, and producers working together to create genre-defining music.

"It's important we give these young creatives the necessary support, guidance, and direction that they deserve. All of these artists have the potential to be the next Dave, Raye, or Olivia Dean, British artists who have an immense global impact."

Legacy Youth Zone offers state-of-the-art creative facilities, including music studios and performance spaces, designed to empower young people aged 8-19 or up to 25 with additional needs to develop their skills and confidence. The appointment of DJ Semtex further strengthens the Youth Zone’s ambition to bridge the gap between grassroots talent and the creative industries.

Myke Catterall, CEO of Legacy Youth Zone, added: “We are obviously incredibly excited to have someone with such a unique insight into the music industry. 

"Since we first began working with DJ Semtex in November, he has been a passionate champion of our young people, offering mentorship, radio support, and always making himself approachable and available. We’re really looking forward to what this partnership will bring over the coming years.”

This partnership signals an exciting new chapter for Legacy Youth Zone as it continues to champion creativity, inclusion, and opportunity for young people.

https://legacyyouthzone.org