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November 6, 2026
Defence News: Minister for Veterans and People on 'The InDependent Spouse' podcast
In case you missed it… Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MP, recently joined podcaster and service spouse Jess Sands to answer questions about defence’s support for military family life.
To watch via YouTube, please go to this link: https://youtu.be/mrQD7VVBKhs?si=b8ff7cyULM7gdmPU
Shropshire; Kids Cafe Play,Move & Thrive through sports - Starting 13 November til 11 December - every fortnight

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub
Blandford: Garrison - Free Citizens Advice service every Thursday.
Website: Citizens Advice in East Dorset and Purbeck
Email: dafaw@edpcitizensadvice.org.uk.
Dorset: Craft fair - Sun 8th Nov
Unique local handmade crafts. Refreshments Free entry. Winfrith Newburgh village hall. Information provided by Bovington HIVE
Dorset: Bonfire & firework night (Wareham) - Fri 6th Nov
Gates Open: 6:00 pm
Children's Fancy Dress: 6:45 pm (Autumnal theme)
Bonfire & Fireworks: Fireworks display begins at 8:30 pm
There will be live music, local food, licensed drinks and refreshments available, plus fairground style stalls and small children's rides.
Dorset: Essential work at Bakers Arms roundabout (A35/A351) now until Mon 30th November
To help reduce the risk of flooding and disruption during the winter months, Dorset Council will carry out essential drainage maintenance works at Bakers Arms Roundabout junction of the A35 and A351 near Lytchett Minster
The roundabout remains open, but lane restrictions and closures are in place on the approaches. Delays are anticipated, especially during peak travel times.
For more details click HERE
Information provided by Bovington HIVE
Blandford: Garrison cinema showing 'Ghosts, The Possessions Of Button House' Sun 8th & Wed 11th Nov
Food and drink available to purchase at the door.
Adult (15+) £4
Senior (60+) £3
Student £3
Blandford: Garrison remembrance service - Sun 8th Nov
Bovington: New free infant massage group starts Monday 9th Nov
DorPIP is bringing free infant massage to Bovington, funded by the Purbeck Local Alliance Group.
In partnership with Wareham Family Hub, the programme is delivered from Bovington Networking Point, (by Bovington Academy School) Holt Road, BH20 6LE.
Mondays, 1pm–2:30pm, 9th November – 7th December 2026. For parents and carers with babies aged four weeks to pre-crawling.
DorPIP specialises in parent-infant relationships. Infant massage helps parents and carers notice their baby’s cues, grow in confidence and strengthen their relationship.
This relationship-focused support forms part of the Best Start Local plan and Healthy Babies programme.
Following our positive experience with military families at Blandford Camp, we’re pleased to bring this support to Bovington.
This is a targeted programme with joining criteria and six family places, keeping the group small so families have time and support.
First Defence Finance: How to buy a car when you have £0 saved
Can You Buy a Car When You Have £0 Saved?
You've looked at Auto Trader. You've found a car that suits your needs. The problem is that you don't have the money to pay for it upfront.
If you need a car for commuting, family life or getting between home and base, waiting until you've saved the full amount might not feel practical. Borrowing could help you spread the cost, but it's important to understand how the different options work before committing.
In this guide, we'll walk through the main ways to finance a car, what to compare, and how to make a more informed decision.
What are your options for buying a car with no savings?
If you don't have money set aside for a car, there are several ways you might be able to finance one. Availability depends on the lender, the agreement, and your eligibility.
Find Out More
November 5, 2026
North Yorkshire: Mind Matters dates and locations
The updated full list of Mind Matters days, times and locations.
Our social groups are open to adults and offer a friendly, relaxed space to enjoy a cuppa and chat, meet new people and take some time for your wellbeing. There’s no need to book...just drop in during the times listed.
If it’s your first time and you’re feeling a little nervous, one of our team will be there to welcome you and help you settle in. If you have any questions before coming along, please get in touch. We’d love to see you!
01609 780758
nyteam@darlingtonmind.com
Hebburn: THE TYNE-WEAR REMEMBRANCE MATCH RETURNS 6th Nov
The Tyne-Wear Remembrance Match is back on Friday 6th November 2026, bringing both sides of the Tyne-Wear divide together through football, remembrance and a shared commitment to supporting our Armed Forces community.
All proceeds from the match will be split between three fantastic organisations:
Veterans at Ease
Newcastle United Armed Forces Supporters Branch
Sunderland AFC Armed Forces & Veterans Supporters Association
Friday 6th November 2026
Hebburn Town FC – Trustmark Group Stadium
South Drive, Hebburn, NE31 1UN
Tickets are available now! app.fanbaseclub.com
Two clubs. One Armed Forces community.
Come along, show your support and help us make this another fantastic occasion.
Information provided by North HIVE Hub
Catterick: Tiny Troops Stay & Play every Mon & Fri
Looking for something to do with your little ones in Catterick?
Need to get out of the house, burn off some toddler energy or just fancy a cuppa and a chat with other parents?
Come along to Tiny Troops Stay & Play!
A relaxed, friendly space where little ones can play, explore and make friends, while grown-ups enjoy some adult conversation!
Loos Road Community Hub, Catterick
Every Monday & Friday
1pm – 3pm
Just £1.50 per child – snack & drink included!
Whether you’re new to the area, looking to meet other parents or simply need something affordable to keep the kids entertained, we’d love to welcome you!
Booking is essential – just message our Tiny Troops page to reserve your space.
Come along, get out of the house and make some new friends!
Everyone welcome – mums, dads, grandparents and carers
Richmond: Join the Ravens every Tues & Thurs
Fancy giving rugby a go? We’re recruiting!
Whether you’ve played before or are completely new to the game, we’d love to welcome you to our club!
We're always looking for new players to join the team.
No experience needed, just a willingness to give it a go, meet new people and have some fun!
Come along, get involved and be part of something great.
Drop us a message for more information!
Richmondshire Ravens – Everyone Welcome!
Information provided by North HIVE Hub
Blandford: Royal Signals museum shop - Christmas discount week Mon 9th - Tues 17th Nov
Information provided by Bovington HIVE
Blandford: Garrison community activities & events
Army Welfare Service - Community Support has it's Eventbrite organiser page for Blandford & Bovington Camps.
This is the one stop shop for all AWS Community Support activities in your area where you will find some amazing opportunities for you and your family!
a) Sign up and follow us - the more followers we have the more we can offer and the quicker you'll find out about new events!
b) Spread the word, tell you friends, post it to your socials and help grow our following!
c) Come along to our weekly events and get to know our amazing volunteers and the groups they run.
James Tarring - AWS Community Development Worker - Blandford
james.tarring100@mod.gov.uk
Stafford Christmas Lights Switch on - Saturday 21 November - Market Square, Stafford

The streets around the centre of the county town will be illuminated on Saturday 21 November for the Christmas Lights Switch On.
The day will include live music and street entertainment before the lights are turned on at 5pm in the Market Square.
West Midlands: Birmingham’s free festive Reindeer Trail - 12 November - 6 January

Red-nosed Rudolph and his fellow reindeer, will return to Birmingham city centre for the free festive trail like no other from Thursday November 12 until Wednesday January 6.,
Full details can be found HERE
Information provided by Central HIVE Hub
Staffordshire: Tamworth Borough Council - corporate services, communications - communications officer vacancy
£26,427 - £26,847 per annum pro rata
22.2 hours per week
Temporary contract until September 2028
Home-based role
Deadline: 18 November 2026
Apply here
https://www.tamworth.gov.uk/jobs
Information provided by Central HIVE Hub
Shropshire: Free Yoga Classes with Cheryl - Armed Forces, Emergency Service or immediate family member of someone who has served
Dawley sessions until 16 December
Information provided by: Central HIVE Hub
November 4, 2026
Parade to mark Remembrance Sunday in Stafford

Remembrance Sunday – 8 November
The open-air service begins at 10.50am in Victoria Square, with wreath laying at the Borough War Memorial, followed by wreath laying at the County War Memorial on Victoria Road and a parade through the town centre.
The parade will pass through Market Square, where the salute will be taken by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire. The Borough Mayor, civic dignitaries and local organisations will also be in attendance.
📅 Armistice Day – 11 November
An Act of Remembrance will take place in Market Square from 10.50am, including prayers, a two-minute silence, and the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille.
Everyone is welcome to attend and pay their respects.
Barry: Remembrance Day Services - Sun 8th Nov 26 at King's Square, Barry
All Barry residents and visitors are invited to:
Follow the Remembrance Parade. Please meet at 10am - King Square to register or pre-register via https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/barrytowncouncil. Barry march steps off at 10:25am
Remembrance outdoor service begins at 10.45am outside the Memo Arts Centre at the Cenotaph.
Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub
Blandford: Garrison free mortgage advice session - Wed 2nd Dec
This is free no obligation advice for serving personnel, veterans, and their families.
New Appointment Slots.
We will be offering 30-minute slots, but please be aware some may over run slightly. If you think your query may require longer, we can extend the slots for you.
To book your slot please phone the BGSU Welfare Team on 0743 631 8137 or email BLANDFORDGAR-BGSUWELFARE@mod.gov.uk
You can still pop in to see if he is free if you prefer, or phone on the day regarding availability. If you are unable to attend in person you can contact Norton norton@cjmortgagehub.co.uk and make alternative arrangements
Information provided by Bovington HIVE
West Midlands: Army Benevolent Fund Free to attend Christmas Concert - 5 December

Information provided by Central HIVE Hub
Blandford: Garrison Christmas wreath making workshop - Sat 21st Nov
Join us for a festive Christmas Wreath Making Workshop hosted by Garrison Kitchen Gardens!
Where: Semaphore Arms
When: 21st November from 6pm – 10pm
Price: Just £10 per person
What's Included: All your traditional wreath materials are covered!
Spaces are limited.
We can't wait to see you there and start the holiday crafting together!
Lichfield: DMS Whittington BFBS Cinema Screenings: 8 to 17 November
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8 and 10 November: Heart of the Beast (12A)
15 November: The Pout-Pout Fish (PG)
17 November: Bad Apples (15)
Information provided by Central HIVE Hub
Forces Cars Direct: November Offers
Make the switch to electric with the brilliant CUPRA Raval, saving £5,678, or enjoy the comfort and practicality of the Renault Scenic E-Tech, with an impressive £7,554 off.
Not sure if an EV is right for you? Their team is on hand to talk you through your options; answer your questions and help you decide whether electric is the way forward or a petrol engine better suits your lifestyle.
Find out more - monthly offers: https://www.forcescarsdirect.com/special-offers/monthly-offers
Dorset: Wool CE primary school tours available for Sept 2027 starters
Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision, and we'd love to show you around our school.
We are still accepting bookings for tours for children due to start school in September 2027.
Remember, the deadline for primary school applications is 15 January 2027.
To arrange a visit, please contact the school office: wool.office@coastalpartnership.co.uk
We can't wait to meet you and your family!
Blandford: Garrison bible & brews - pilot session starts Thurs 26th Nov.
Chaplains office, Williams building from 12.30 - 13.30.Information provided by Bovington HIVE
Folkestone: Festive Market Place 14th Nov - 26th Dec
Folkestone Harbour Arm Christmas Market
Returning for its sixth year, Folkestone Harbour Arm Christmas Market brings festive cheer to the Kent coast. Discover gifts from local makers and producers, enjoy seasonal food and drink, and experience a packed programme of entertainment including outdoor cinema screenings, live music, a Christmas grotto, festive snow effects and family-friendly activities. It's the perfect place to shop, socialise and celebrate the season by the sea.
Click HERE for more information.
Information provided by South East HIVE Hub
Aldershot: Christmas cracker and Christmas lights switch on - 14th Nov
Step into a winter wonderland at Aldershot Christmas Cracker, taking place from noon to 5.30pm on Saturday 14 November. The town centre will be bursting with seasonal cheer, offering a sleigh-full of free family fun - from enchanting festive stalls and a magical grotto, to dazzling fireworks, sensational street performers and live entertainment across two stages.
Browse over 45 festive stalls filled with handmade crafts, seasonal goodies, delicious treats and local community groups - plus explore the delicious street food zone outside Princes Hall theatre, serving up mouthwatering global flavours to warm your winter appetite. Don't miss the chance to meet Father Christmas in his grotto and step inside the giant snow.
Click HERE for more information.
Information provided by South East HIVE Hub
Windsor: Windsor on ice - 13th Nov 2026 - 3rd Jan 2027
Experience the magic of Christmas at Windsor on Ice, a popular seasonal attraction set in historic Alexandra Gardens. Featuring a fully covered real ice rink, this family-friendly festive experience offers skating whatever the weather, making it a great choice for families, friends, couples and groups looking to embrace the Christmas spirit.
Whether you're taking your first steps on the ice or you're a confident skater, Windsor on Ice welcomes all ages and abilities. Special sessions, including Tiny Tuesdays for younger children and All Access Wednesdays, help make the rink accessible to a wide range of visitors.
London: The Royal Mews Christmas shop - 13th Nov 2026 - 4th Jan 2027
The Royal Mews Christmas Shop returns this festive season, bringing a unique Christmas shopping experience to the historic Royal Mews while the stables are closed during the winter months.
Browse a carefully curated collection of royal-inspired gifts, seasonal food and drink, festive decorations and exclusive souvenirs, all presented in a historic setting designed to capture the spirit of Christmas. The seasonal boutique offers visitors the chance to discover thoughtful presents, luxury treats and keepsakes inspired by the royal residences.
Windsor: Eton Christmas lights switch on - 12th Nov
On 12 November, celebrate the start of the festive season at Eton’s annual Christmas lights switch-on. Combining music, seasonal entertainment and a visit from Father Christmas, this much-loved event brings the community together in the heart of historic Eton.
Begin the evening with Eton College’s Carol Concert, before following Father Christmas and his reindeer along Eton High Street to Jubilee Square for the official lights switch-on, hosted by panto star Kevin Cruise. As the countdown begins and festive music fills the air, watch as Eton’s Christmas lights illuminate the town centre.
After the switch-on, take time to explore Eton’s shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants, as well as the seasonal street stalls offering festive food, drinks and gifts. Enjoy a warming mulled wine, sample locally brewed beers from Windsor & Eton Brewery, or pick up a bag of roasted chestnuts as you soak up the atmosphere.
Southampton: Christmas market 12th Nov - 27th Dec 2026
The 2026 Southampton Christmas Market will this year take place from 12th November 2026 until 27th December 2026.
Step into Christmas at Southampton Christmas Market's festive wonderland. Soak up the atmosphere as you browse an array of traditional wooden chalets featuring unique crafts and gifts to deliciously tempting food and drink. With something for all the family this festive wonderland is a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
Southampton Christmas Market also features a variety of thrilling rides and attractions. For little ones discover lots of children’s rides including Santa’s Runaway Train on the southern side of the Bargate.
Make magical moments with a visit to Santa’s Grotto this Christmas. You’ll discover his cosy grotto next to the historic Bargate where the big man himself and his cheeky elves will be waiting to meet you.
Click HERE for more information.
Aldershot: Rushmoor fireworks spectacular 7th Nov 2026
The Rushmoor Firework display in Aldershot will be returning to Manor Park, Aldershot on Saturday 7 November 2026 with fireworks, drone display and light show.
The event has been held at Manor Park for more than 20 years and has grown to be one of the largest public fireworks events in the region.
This event brings visitors fireworks, light & drone show along with a large fun fair, food stalls, bar, plus live music.
Tickets are available to purchase online from the Rushmoor Firework website.
Last Entry 7.30pm before the display.
Southampton: Skate at Westquay Southampton 23rd Oct 2026 - 3rd Jan 2027
Add some festive sparkle to your winter with ON ICE at Westquay, Southampton's popular outdoor ice-skating attraction. Located on Westquay's Esplanade, this spacious seasonal ice rink offers a fun-filled experience for skaters of all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to confident ice skaters.
Open from 23 October 2026 to 3 January 2027, the rink provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a festive day out with family and friends while soaking up the Christmas atmosphere in Southampton city centre.
Click HERE for more information.
Information provided by South East HIVE Hub
Motorfinity: 10 years of miles and smiles
Motorfinity: 10 years of miles and smiles
This month Motorfinity is marking ten years of helping the UK’s frontline workers buy brand-new cars for less.
Since 2016, Motorfinity has helped thousands of people save money when they buy a new car.
And the good news is, Motorfinity is part of Defence's Offer, so those savings are available to serving members of the Armed Forces, reservists, veterans, military families and MOD civil servants.
Motorfinity works with most major car manufacturers, so you can compare your options in one place.
Customers save an average of £7,400 on many makes and models – based on 2025 sales data.
- It's free to use – there's no cost or paperwork for you or Defence
- It won't affect your pay, pension or any workplace benefits
- There are no tax implications
- You get your own account manager, who supports you from your first enquiry to delivery day
- You can choose from flexible finance and leasing options, including HP and PCP, to spread the cost
- Your family may also be able to access discounts with some car brands
- You can part-exchange your old car as part of the process
- Your new car can be delivered to you, anywhere in the UK
- Choose a car and submit a quick enquiry on the Motorfinity website
- Motorfinity will check that you're eligible
- Their team will find the best offer for you, sort out your finance and arrange part-exchange if you need it
Find out more
- Read Royal Navy veteran Andy's story about the savings he made with Motorfinity and the benefits of going electric
- You can see the full range of car brands and current offers at www.motorfinity.uk
- Visit Discover My Benefits to find out more about Motorfinity and the other discount services available in Your Offer
Bovington: Are you due to move to Bovington, Lulworth or Blandford?
If so contact Bovington HIVE to request pre-arrival information.
Email: RC-Pers-HIVE-Bovington-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk
Core information sheets are available from the HIVE and contain useful information on accommodation,employment,health & wellbeing, finance, childcare,schools & adult education as well as location overview of community amenities, facilities and activities etc. There is also help with general queries regarding the local area.
Bovington HIVE can also provide you with information sheets on other locations across the UK and overseas. Please call in to speak to the HIVE information officer or use the contact details above.
November 3, 2026
Leconfield: Use of Flea Foggers in SFA
Use of Flea Foggers in SFA
There have been an increased number of instances of families living in SFA using flea foggers (“flea bombs”). To protect Service personnel, families and neighbouring properties, the use of flea foggers ("flea bombs") is prohibited in SFA due to the potential for property damage and harm to occupants.
Flea foggers release a combustible aerosol and can create significant fire, explosion and health-and-safety risks, as well as trigger smoke alarms and unnecessary emergency service call-outs.
Serve & Protect Credit Union: Latest Financial Educational Webinars - November and December 2026
Green Living: Simple Eco-Friendly Tips to Lower Your Bills 🌿💸 (New Title for 2026)
Eco-friendly savings webinar | November and December 2026 Dates Released | Limited Availability | Learn more and register for FREE
Green Living: Simple Eco-Friendly Tips to Lower Your Bills | Serve and Protect Credit Union
Budgeting explained webinar | November and December 2026 Dates Released | Limited Availability | Learn more and register for FREE 👇
Budgeting 101: Take Control of Your Money | Serve and Protect Credit Union
Tips to boost savings webinar | November and December 2026 Dates Released | Limited Availability | Learn more and register for FREE 👇
Saving Made Simple: Practical Habits to Boost Your Savings | Serve and Protect Credit Union
Tips to boost your score webinar | November and December 2026 Dates Released | Limited Availability | Learn more and register for FREE 👇
Credit Score 101: Tips to Boost Your Score | Serve and Protect Credit Union
Preparing for the unexpected webinar | November and December Dates Released | Limited Availability | Learn more and register for FREE 👇
Financial Resilience: Ready When it Matters | Serve and Protect Credit Union
Key things to know webinar | November and December Dates Released | Limited Availability | Learn more and register for FREE 👇
Borrow Smarter: Tips to Strengthen Your Loan Application | Serve and Protect Credit Union
Key things to know webinar | December Dates Released | Limited Availability | Learn more and register for FREE 👇
Car Finance: More Than a Monthly Payment | Serve and Protect Credit Union
Please note that registrations are capped to 35 for each session, so they are on a ‘first-come, first-served basis’. However, once registered for a webinar, even if people can't attend the live event - most webinars are then emailed to them to watch in their own time. Find out more at: Serve and Protect Credit Union events | Livestorm
Barry: Veterans Christmas Day Invitation - Barry Athletic Football Club
Hwb For Heroes - Health Hwb:
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT — NO VETERAN ALONE THIS CHRISTMAS
Nobody should have to spend Christmas Day alone. This year, Hwb for Heroes will once again be bringing veterans together for a free Christmas dinner, good company, activities and plenty of laughs.
If you’re a veteran facing Christmas on your own, there’s a place for you with us. Come along, pull up a chair and spend the day around people who understand. You’re part of our family.
Barry Athletic Football Club
Christmas Day — 25 December 2026
11am–4pm
Wheelchair access available at the venue
Completely free of charge
Contact to book your place:
07488 57 1666
hwbforheroes@gmail.com
Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub


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