SOMEHOW, much new information this week (and next) involves medical issues, and most will be of specific interest to residents of the valley as well as Marlow town, but we’ll start with a potentially fascinating excursion: Perhaps a pity that it happens after the school holidays finish, but a forthcoming weekend event could interest parents and children of the valley and town. Open House was started in 1992 as a small, not-for-profit organisation to promote public awareness and appreciation of London’s building design and architecture. The intention was to open up London's splendid buildings to the general public who don’t otherwise have access.

On September 20 and 21, Open House London throws open the doors to hundreds of buildings and spaces in and around the capital. More than 800 free guided tours, architectural-themed walks, cycle rides, debates and activities are available during the weekend. Explore iconic buildings not usually open to the public, find out details about more familiar spaces and step into the private homes of the rich and famous.

All are free but some require entry via a ticket ballot (open until Sunday, September 7); these include 10 Downing Street, Gray’s Inn and the Antony Gormley Room at the Beaumont Hotel. Three events are also part of the ballot: Open Debate, Green Debate and Arriva Mystery Tour.

Other highlights include the glass-clad City Hall (the offices for the Mayor of London), the majestic Mansion House and City financial hub, the Bank of England. For something more unusual, visit Nick Baker’s eco home 25C Montpellier Road, or Ott’s Yard, a series of repurposed sheds and a converted workhouse laundry.

More information can be found at www.openhouselondon.org.uk but, as I say, could have been more useful during those “Mum, I’m bored” days.

PATIENTS or carers who have attended any outpatient services within the last six months can give useful feedback on their experience to Bucks Healthcare. Having listened to previous comments, they understand that it is the supporting processes, and not the clinical care, that impact on patient/carer experience. They are looking at how they can improve the patient experience across outpatient services and would value some further input. The survey can be accessed on line at www.surveymonkey.com/s/7SNR6P8 and all responses are anonymous. Now’s your chance to influence future outpatients efficiency and convenience.

If you wish to receive a hard copy or if you have any queries or difficulties in completing the survey please contact either Dee Irvin on 01494 734405 or at Dee.Irvin@bucks healthcare.nhs.uk or Tracey Underhill via Tracey.Underhill@ buckshealthcare.nhs.uk. ALWAYS rewarding to get feedback on comments and reports in this column. Valley bees obviously raised a buzz last week, but bananas and chocolate have caused no panic buying yet.

Bob Hufflett keeps up with everything valley-related and sent me this comment after reading my plea to feed the bees.

He said: “There are three types of bumble bee in my garden. Big ones, medium ones and small ones [always the academic, Bob]. The big ones live under a garden shed irrespective of the lack of planning consent for residential use.

As for Honey Bees, there is within the confines of the valley at least one colony of wild bees. A major danger for wild bees is a false spring just as the last of their winter food store empties and the current colony have increased thinking spring has sprung, and the weather plunges back into winter. One hell of a lot of hungry bees.

Salvation is at hand because in Kimbers Copse there is a large Goat Willow known as Pussy Willow or Salix Caprea, for those who have a classical education.

This willow blossoms early, before even the leaves have opened, and the tree will be invaded by a mass of hungry wild bees. Should you venture near the sound of their buzzing – the volume is incredible – don’t be afraid because the bees are so intent on securing blossom and nectar; they could not care less about your presence, unless of course your intention is to obtain blossom or nectar.”

MARLOW Medical Group, which includes practices at Marlow, Lane End, Hambleden and Hurley, holds its next Patient Reference Group meeting at The Doctors’ House on Thursday, September 11 at 7pm. Agenda items include the local Primary Care Strategy, online patient access to records as well as a general update on the practice.

As a member of that group, please tell me, by phone or email, of any concerns you would like me to raise.

n BURFORD School works on enhancing the hall capacity and facilities have begun. The increased space for the pupils, teachers and parents to enjoy sports, classes, assemblies and functions remain on plan and should be completed in the next two months.

There is still time to ‘buy-a-brick’ and get a single name engraved on a plaque in the new hall. Please call the school office 01628 486655 to set your mark in history.

TOMORROW (Saturday) promises to be a pretty nice day for the Rock Bottom festival, judging from the confident forecasts earlier in the week. I’m not sure if there are tickets still available, but Bernie’s or the web are probably your only chance. See www.

marlowrockbottom.co.uk