IN THE KNOW
Local Trades
Looking to renovate your home, enhance your garden, or find the best childcare that suits your family needs? Search through local trades to find exactly what you need.
Crafts by Maddy: A Small Business with a Big Purpose
Hello everyone,
My name is Maddy Boughton I am 24 years old. I have autism , dyspraxia and ocd. In my life I have received a lot of bullying which has resulted in me being anxious and have had low self confidence as a result. I have always been creative since a young age and in the third lockdown I was looking for a creative hobby to fill my time. My mum suggested crocheting so I taught myself how to crochet by watching YouTube tutorials. I got addicted to crocheting and after receiving encouragement from my family I set up my business Crafts by Maddy in 2021.
In September 2023 I wrote an article for the we roar magazine that empower entrepreneurs with a focus on neurodiversity. After writing this article I realised that I wanted to use my buisness as a positive way to inspire people with neurodivergence to embrace their differences.
Since then I have expanded my shop to include a wide range of items. I sell handmade crocheted toys , keyring , scrunchies , hand stitched tote bags , pencil cases , handmade pottery coasters , trinket dishes , calligraphy cards , hand painted canvases along with painted pebbles all ukca tested and I do custom orders as well.
My buisness has allowed me to regain my confidence and I hope to continue to inspire people to do what makes them happy.
To learn more about Craftsbymaddy follow us on our Facebook and instagram page Craftsbymaddy. To purchase my items visit my Etsy shop Craftsbymaddyshop.
Thank you for reading!!.
Maddy
Barn Farm Plants, Wardington, A Curated Country Garden Experience
Set within the gentle countryside of Wardington, Barn Farm Plants presents itself as a long-established, family-run garden centre where horticultural knowledge and warm hospitality have been cultivated for over 25 years. Led by Mark, Deborah, and their dedicated team, the nursery is defined by its open, welcoming atmosphere and a genuine commitment to sharing expertise through regular workshops, demonstrations, and thoughtful, honest advice.
Across its extensive plant area, visitors discover a carefully curated selection of seasonal bedding plants, all grown on site with exceptional care, alongside hardy perennials, cottage garden favourites, and a wide-ranging collection of shrubs and seasonal colour designed to inspire year-round planting.
Complementing the living collection is an equally comprehensive assortment of garden essentials, from composts, feeds, and insecticides to tools, decorative aggregates, pots, and practical sundries; ensuring every aspect of the gardening journey is supported in one place.
Barn Farm Plants is also known for its considered approach to garden design inspiration, offering garden furniture, arches, arbours, water features, and solar lighting that allow outdoor spaces to be shaped with character and atmosphere. Ample on-site parking and an adjoining antiques centre further enhance the sense of discovery, making it an inviting destination for a leisurely visit.
At the heart of the experience sits The Greenhouse Café, a relaxed and stylish retreat serving freshly prepared food from a vibrant daily menu. Homemade cakes, gluten-free and vegan options, and weekly specials are complemented by a selection of light meals for children, including playful lunchboxes and creative activities. Fully licensed, the café offers the option to enjoy a glass of wine or beer, whether seated indoors in comfortable surroundings or outdoors within the garden centre itself. Complimentary Wi-Fi adds to the ease of a lingering visit.
Ideally positioned along the Jurassic Way and popular with walkers and cyclists, Barn Farm Plants blends horticultural expertise with countryside charm. Whether planting a new border, filling seasonal gaps, or simply seeking inspiration, it remains a destination where quality, care, and creativity come together to enrich every garden.
.png)
Olive Construction Services Ltd
07976 782440
www.oliveconstructionservices.co.uk
At Olive Construction Services, we are dedicated to preserving the historic charm and reviving heritage properties with classic craftsmanship. Our expertise lies in using traditional techniques and materials to enhance your property while ensuring building standards and historical integrity.
.png)
SRS Roofing Ltd
0333 2007343 / 07956 114001
Superior Roofing Solutions based in Banbury, Oxfordshire, is well recognised as a dependable roofing contractor. Our management has over 30 years experience in providing all types of roofing services both for private and commercial clients. No roofing job is too large or small for our professional teams. We provide our clients with a wide range of fix or replace roofing options for all their roofing needs. Whatever you have in mind, our professionals work with quality materials and products and a guaranteed service.
.png)
Stone House Boarding Kennels
07803 002098 Phone & Whatsapp
Facebook @Stonehouseboardingkennels
Instagram @stonehouseboardingkennels
Small boarding kennels, based in Eydon, Northamptonshire; set in 14 acres of paddocks and woodland.
The Stonehouse Boarding Kennels receives high praise for its exceptional service and caring team. Dogs and their owners are delighted with the welcoming atmosphere and attentive care provided.
.png)
Manor Farm Day Care
admin@manorfarmdaycareltd.co.uk
01295 660150
Facebook @Manorfarmdaycare
Manor Farm Day Care is situated on the outskirts of Banbury tucked away in the beautiful village of Chipping Warden.
Our family run nursery comprises of three carefully set up rooms that accommodates babies (0-2), toddlers (2-3) and preschool (3-5). The nursery has exclusive access to Manor Farm Soft Play Centre which supports the children’s physical and mental wellbeing and development.
.png)
The Olive Tree Workshop
info@theolivetreeworkshop.co.uk
Instagram @theolivetreeworkshop
Furniture restoration based in Cropredy, Oxfordshire.
At Olive Tree Workshop, every piece of furniture has a story worth retelling.
Restoration work brings old favourites back to life, not just as furniture, but as works of art filled with history and heart.
Because restoration isn’t just work...it’s art in progress.
.png)
Gulliver's Tree Solutions Ltd
tim@gulliverstreesolutions.com
07894 789667
Facebook @GTSLtd
Tree Work and Grounds Maintenance business based in Byfield, South Northamptonshire; specialising in all aspects of Tree Work and Ground Care.
"Highly recommended. Professional company. Carried out work exactly as promised. Knowledgeable, efficient, courteous and tidy."
.png)
Dakota Business Services Ltd
07590 433242
With over 10 years industry experience in marketing, social media management, business development and strategy.
Offering a personalised service, we get to know your business, tailoring your package to your business needs. Our services include Administration & Personal Assistant Support, Marketing Management, Social Media Strategies and Business Development.
.png)
Orchard Day Nursery
01327 260098
Facebook @orcharddaynursery
Set within an elegant 16th-century manor and surrounded by expansive gardens and a distinguished Forest School, Orchard offers an exceptional environment rich in character and possibility. Its refined, self-contained preschool building further elevates independence and a bespoke, child-centred learning experience.
Orchard Day Nursery offers a distinguished early years experience, defined by personalised care, reflective leadership and an enriching, thoughtfully curated curriculum. A trusted choice for families seeking an exceptional start.
Advertise with us
Are you a business owner looking to connect with over 10,000 across 24 local villages? Advertise with us today and engage with your community