| April is almost over, and the weather forecasters are predicting a glorious month of May. But what to do in Newbury? Newbury.net has come up with five of the best ideas for the coming weeks.
Learn to play the blues
Budding guitarists can get a masterclass in playing the blues, in Beedon this weekend. A workshop and jam session is being run by Adrian Byron Burns at the Coach and Horses pub on the old A34 on Sunday. Bring your own guitar. Call Adrian on 01635 248743 for times.
See some superheroes – Monday May 1
Bank holidays in Newbury wouldn’t be the same without the annual spectacle of homemade boats racing along the Kennet and Avon Canal. Dozens of entries are expected to dress up as superheroes, with most crossing the finishing line at Victoria Park between 10am and 2pm. A funfair will be laid on, and activities in the park will continue until 4.30pm, organized by Newbury Round Table and 16 other organizations.
Watch traditional maypole dancing – May 7
The village of Burghclere will be out in force for the 50th annual crowning of the May Queen. The May fete at the Clere School will feature maypole dancing, ferret racing, duck racing, with a beer tent and barbeque. Starts 1pm.
Give the kids some Potter magic – May 7
High culture arrives in Newbury on May 7 for the spring festival. But the first among the classical, jazz and world music acts, is a lighthearted one hour concert of soundtracks and themetunes from the likes of Harry Potter and Hansel and Gretel, by Newbury Symphony Orchestra. The concert starts at 2.30pm, with tickets costing £6. For the full programme see:
http://www.newburyspringfestival.org.uk/2005events.htm
See Newbury’s history replayed – May 14-15
The First Battle of Newbury will be replayed close to the original site of the day-long slog between Royalists and Parliamentarians in 1643. The Marquis of Winchester’s Foot Regiment will be on hand to explain to children and adults the momentous events, when Charles I emerged victorious, but failed to finish off the ragtag roundhead army of the ageing Earl of Essex.
The show takes place at John Rankin School, with proceeds going towards the building of a new classroom extension. http://www.marquisofwinchesters.co.uk/
Email Alan Winn for more. Alan.winn@ntlworld.com | 
