History

This month we take a look at one of the new city's biggest successes – a firm that is reaching dizzying heights in every sense of the word, and a business that has left its mark here at the Museum. We discovered more about the Niftylift story from its chairman and founder, Roger Bowden. Niftylift is one of Europe’s largest mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) manufacturers and while the business is anchored in these parts, it operates worldwide. “We specialise in compact, low-weight articulating booms that offer maximum performance with minimal environmental impact,” Roger says, explaining his business in relatively simple terms. The name ‘Nifty’ has synonyms including ‘particularly good, skilful, or effective” and ‘attractive and stylish’ – which all perfectly sum up what Roger wants to achieve with every lift the company designs: “Combining the two names seemed the perfect solution,” Roger recalled. 2013 Queens..

The biggest Exhibition in Milton Keynes’ history showcasing art, culture, organisations and businesses from Milton Keynes’ black community is back on 21st-22nd October in Middleton Hall, centre:mk. The free 2-day event, organised by CIC World Media Initiatives, charities STaSS, African Diaspora Foundation and Making Good Better will host over 100 exhibitors and will be opened by the Mayor of Milton Keynes at 10am on Saturday 21st October. The exhibition, which is in it’s second year at centre:mk, is set to be bigger and better than ever before with special guests from Hip hop artists ‘So Solid Crew’, performances from Adanta Dance Troupe, UNIKA dance events, as well as a specially created fashion show for the event. In addition, the exhibition will bring together talented artists and businesses who are doing some amazing work in the city, yet up until now, have been relatively unknown. The two-day event organised by Nana..

Main Image: Fireworks light the sky in Milton Keynes pic: Gill Prince The Emmett name is synonymous with entertainment in Milton Keynes. Over the decades they have delighted hundreds of 1000s of people with their events, and there’s every chance that you are among that number. Sammy Jones spoke with Keith Emmett III to learn more about the family's impressive history. As a new city, and a new town before that, Milton Keynes doesn’t have too much in the way of ‘modern’ history – we’re still busily establishing things that will become traditions. But one thing that is already anchored is an annual event that sees thousands of people flock to the heart of Milton Keynes to watch the skies above illuminated in spectacular style. The firework display has been ‘a thing’ here for more than four decades, and the same family has been at the helm for every one..

This September, Milton Keynes will once again mark Heritage Open Days with dozens of events taking place over 10 activity packed days. 2023 is the 17th annual HoD being held here, and it has grown considerably since making its debut in 2006 – back then we had just 15 events to choose from! Heritage Open Days is an opportunity to engage with a wealth of activities for children and families, spanning exhibitions and workshops, walks and tours, open days and craft events and performances. And at a time when the purse strings are being tightened more than ever before, it’s a delight to be able to say that every event can be enjoyed for free! The full programme can be found at heritageopendays.org.uk but here we share some of the enticing events - and there are others listed in our What’s On pages. Dig deep and enjoy. Friday, September 8..

Heritage Open Days set to uncover the creativity hidden within the picturesque parklands of Milton Keynes. The Parks Trust are excited to announce a series of Guided Walk & Talk events which will an exciting glimpse into MK’s innovative landscape design, wildlife conservation, and the fascinating historical narratives within the city's green spaces. Enthusiasts of art, history, and nature alike are invited to join Parks Trust experts to unveil the intricate tapestry of Milton Keynes' Parks. From woodland ridges to vibrant wildflower meadows, attendees will learn about the delicate art of managing these landscapes and the balance of nature and modern amenities, including the integration of public art. Events will take place in Campbell Park, Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve, Ouse Valley, North Loughton Valley and Stanton Low between 8th and 14thSeptember. Plus, on Saturday 16th September, Great Linford Manor Park Celebration Day promises fun for all the family. From heritage..