Issue 3
In this Issue... The Snowman flies into Southampton A look for ward to Wickham Festival The Loop visits the UK Space Centre
NET WORKING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNIT Y . . .
WELCOME TO
Networking in your local community...
W
e hope everyone has had a good Christmas and wish you all a very prosperous 2014.
Once again, thank you for all the support and entries that you have sent into us.
Congratulations to Kerrie-Jayne Bingham who has won this issue’s front cover competition. Four tickets to
The Snowman at the Mayflower will be sent out to you shortly.
We will be running another front cover competition this month with the chance to win a watercolour or
THE LOOP The next Loop Magazine will be delivered in March
pencil portrait worth £75. Please check out the details
Please send in your press releases and community news to contactus@loopmagazine.net
In this issue we have details on the upcoming Wickham
Visit www.loopmagazine.net
Mayflower in January and of the Loop’s visit to the UK
Call 01489 881885
on page 4.
Festival, The Snowman which is coming to the Space Environments Conference in late 2013.
We would like to thank Dan Boylan from Fareham
Writers for his contributions to the magazine and once again we implore the community to send in your local
interest stories, to help make this the publication of the
community. Let us know what is important to you, and
what you would like to see featured in our magazine. Raising money for charity? Want to advertise local groups or WI gatherings? Perhaps after school
activities for children or just information about an interesting hobby? Send in your details to contactus@ loopmagazine.net
Advertise in our Family Announcements feature. Herald a birth, celebrate a marriage or honour
Produced by Events and Special Occasions Ltd.
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Sales Director Sarah Hopley sarah@loopmagazine.net
Editor Pete Ralls pete@loopmagazine.net
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Administration Genevieve Hopley
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Production Blake Hopley
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blake@loopmagazine.net
a passed loved one. For more information email contactus@loopmagazine.net
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Belle of the Beads Affordable Pandora style beads to suit your individual style Available for adult and childrens parties, craft events etc. Why not host a party and enjoy making unique gifts for family, friends, teachers etc.? The party host will receive a 10% discount to spend on products. Call Alison on 07788 582498
Website : http://shop.belleofthebeads.co.uk
Have your photo featured on our front cover
AND
WIN a watercolour or pencil portrait worth ÂŁ75 Do you have any photos taken within the local area? Pictures of local landmarks or areas of natural beauty? Perhaps a snap taken at a local event, charity function or local school? Send in your photos with a chance to feature on our front page in our next issue and WIN a portrait by Alli. See page 19 for details on Portraits by Alli.
Email your photos to contactus@loopmagazine.net
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Royal Marines Band Collingwood spread Christmas cheer to local schools
Musicians from the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines based at HMS Collingwood took a whistle stop tour of eight schools in the Fareham, Gosport and Portsmouth area when they performed carols to hundreds of excited children. Two groups of around 10 Musicians, led by the Director of Music Major Pete Curtis and Bandmaster Warrant Officer 2 Russ Young, took time out of their busy programme to bring a Christmas treat to youngsters when they played a series of festive favourites. One group, led by Bandmaster Warrant Officer 2 Royal Marines Russ Young, visited Holbrook Primary school, Gosport, where they received an amazing welcome from children and teachers a like. In a special twist the children decided that they also wanted to perform and sang their own rendition of ’12 Days of Christmas’, with all the movements, entertaining the band! The children were all given a special treat when the corps of drums gave a display. Head of School at Holbrook, Mrs Terry Smith said “We are thrilled that the Royal Marines Band Collingwood were able to come here and play four our children. We are especially thrilled that some of the children had the chance to show their talents to the band. We hope it will encourage them to take up music
in the future.” On travelling to Gomer Junior School, the band were given an equally rapturous welcome and were thoroughly entertained by the musicians. Deputy Head teacher Tim Potter said “It was an awe and wonder moment, which will be great inspiration to the children. It might inspire some of them to take up some brass instruments as well.” When asked about the whole experience Russ Young said ““We are absolutely delighted to be able to give something back to the community. We love are community and our community loves us, and we have to remember that these young children could be future bandsmen and women.” As well as being world class musicians, Royal Marines Musicians are also trained to support on military and humanitarian operations across the globe. During operations, in addition to providing the moral component by playing music to the deployed forces, they also work as casualty handlers, ambulance drivers, radio operators and provide convoy protection thus giving vital support to troops both on the ground and at sea.
Taylor Maid Cleaning Services New Premises Already established locally and now employing local people, TMCS have moved into local offices above Sweet Dreams Bed Company in Mitchell House, Brook Avenue Warsash. The company offer high quality cleaning services to residential homes and small business premises serving Warsash, Locks Heath, Park Gate, Swanwick, Titchfield, Hamble, Bursledon and surrounding
Taylor Maid Cleaning Services Taylor Maid Cleaning Services
"Quality is Job Done”
• Residential Cleaning - Regular Attendance Cleaning - One Off Cleans • Ironing Service • Pre-Tenancy Cleans • End of Tenancy Cleans • Cleans Prior to Property Sales • Small Business Cleaning Services • Cleaning of Internal areas of boats
Call Lesley on: 07412 338332 or 01489 584111
6 | The LOOP
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areas. Through sheer hard work and high standards TMCS will exceed your expectations and offer a wide range of services taylor made to meet your needs. They are also recruiting experienced cleaners with a good work ethic and their own transport who would like to work for a local friendly cleaning business. So why not give Lesley a call for a friendly chat to discuss your needs on 01489 584111 or 07412 338332. You can also log onto www.taylor-maid.net and fill out an enquiry form. References are available on request.
Fine Chocolates American Confectionary Luxury Nougat New Forest Ice Cream Sugar & Dairy Free Sweets Gourmet Fudges Traditional Sweets Retro Sweets Pick & Mix Party Bags Special Occasions All Occasion Gift Hampers from any of our Range. Sweets & Treats Sweets & Treats
Call us on :
01489 576 420
or come visit us in store :
G2 Whiteley Shopping Centre
Ironcraft Fire Centre Now is the time to rethink your attitude to the fireplace –often the forgotten corner of the room. Many people still ignore its importance in the home. Ironcraft in its 33rd year continues to redress the balance with an extensive range of fireplaces and appliances. A family run business, Ironcraft offers an alternative to the internet, providing a personal service with friendly advice and complete after sales care, always with value for money in mind. Solid Fuel specialists, their showroom in the historic setting of Fort Fareham, contains up to 40 multi-fuel and wood stoves as well as fire baskets and accessories. They supply spares and offer a complete fitting service, from HETAS approved fitters installing
liners and twin wall flue systems for those without chimneys. Various fireplaces are on display, available in stone, marble, cast iron etc. for gas, electric or Solid Fuel in traditional or modern styles. Ironcraft’s workshop enables them to provide custom installations. Pop into their friendly showroom to take advantage of their late season discounts. Please ring for directions. Ironcraft Fire Centre, Northern Galleries 3 & 4, Fort Fareham Industrial Estate, Newgate Lane, Fareham PO14 1AH. Telephone 01329 232821.
£100 off liner fit and any stove
Northern Galleries 3&4, Fort Fareham Ind.Est., Newgate Lane, Fareham, Hampshire PO14 1AH Email: ironcraftfirecentre@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 01329 232821 Fax/Answerphone: 01329 828921
contactus@loopmagazine.net
The LOOP | 7
Botleigh Grange Hotel Shambala Spa Review When I was offered the chance to
experience.
review Botleigh Grange Hotel’s recently
After a thorough relaxing session in
cookie cut. The packages include a selection of
refurbished Shambala Spa of course
the spa it was time for lunch. As part of
treatments to choose from, but there are
I jumped at the chance for some pre
the package a light lunch with bubbly is
many more on offer should you wish to
Christmas pampering.
included from the new spa lunch menu. This
create your own package or top one up,
is served in the bar of the hotel where there
and there is everything from Mud Rasul to
Retreat” but it is certainly suitable for friends
are a number of small tables with great
OPI manicures and pedicures. You could
and mums and daughters too, and I took a
views. The options were a two-course meal
easily spend all day just being preened and
friend along.
with soup followed by a wrap, sandwich
polished to perfection.
The package was listed as “A Couple’s
I had heard of the hotel before so knew to
or salad; or a lunch platter. Everything was
Now, there are mixed opinions of spas as
expect a very grand building, and Botleigh
delicious and left us satisfied but not too
part of larger hotels, as they can be thought
Grange certainly did not disappoint. Upon
full ready to head back to the spa.
of as a bit of an add on and not given the
entry into the main hotel the spa is well
After lunch we both had our treatments.
attention they deserve. This is not the case
signposted and the hotel staff were all very
We waited in the relaxation room, which
with the Shambala Spa, which whilst it is
friendly.
I could easily have spent hours in just
technically part of the main hotel, it is run
dosing. Then, we were taken through to
in a separate part of the building and also
the facilities for a little before lunch. There
Once all signed in we were able to enjoy
the double treatment room for our choice
has it’s own clientele aside from the hotel
is a small but swimmable pool, a sauna, a
in treatments, which were wonderful. We
guests. There are membership options if
steam room, and a Jacuzzi all with unlimited
were asked a number of further questions
you live locally and want to use the facilities
usage on your visit. The main area that
and the treatment was altered accordingly.
often, and a loyalty card scheme for a free
includes the pool and Jacuzzi has floor to
The spa has 8 staff in total including the
cream tea and a treatment after a number
ceiling windows on two sides with beautiful
reception staff and beauticians and all were
of uses, and the spa is so wonderful you are
views of the hotel’s lush grounds, making
very helpful and attentive throughout the
bound to fill up your card very quickly.
a dip a really calming and very enjoyable
day and everything felt bespoke rather than
Kitchen and Bedroom Transformations Kitchen and Bedroom Transformations specialise in refurbishing your kitchen or bedroom. They can transform existing units by fitting new doors, drawer fronts, worktops and trims or supplying and fitting a complete, new, fitted kitchen or bedroom - offering a wide range of door designs and finishes. As part of a transformation, changes can be made to the layout and, perhaps, add extra units or new storage baskets to make your existing kitchen more usable. Many existing kitchens are already designed in the most practical way and the advantages of a transformation are: reduced cost, less time taken and much less mess and disruption to the household. A typical transformation can be completed within two to three days, compared to a week or so for a complete new kitchen. Steve Hudson will be happy to come out and take measurements to provide a detailed quotation, with no obligation, and you are welcome to visit the showroom above Heming & Co, The Square, Wickham PO14 2EW. Visit their website: www.kabt.co.uk or phone 01329 830111.
8 | The LOOP
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Heather Clarke
Venus Awards Returns to Southampton
The Venus Awards will be launching for the 3rd time in 2014 at the Grand Café in Southampton. Tara Howard – founder of the Venus Awards will join the Awards Category Sponsors in welcoming local business women and men to the launch event, along with winners and finalists from last year. The event will announce the categories and sponsors for this year’s Awards as well as marking the opening of nominations. The Awards have gone from strength to strength and this year are launching all over the country. From Birmingham to Brighton, each launch event will be hosted by Venus pioneer Tara, often referred to as the ‘ultimate hostess’ with her infectious enthusiasm for recognising women in business. Talking about the phenomenal growth of the awards, Tara, who is a business woman and mother of four, commented; “It started off as an idea and quickly became a dream. And now thanks to the help of our sponsors, my little dream has become even bigger than I ever envisaged, which is so wonderful to see.” The Awards, which celebrate the vital input of women in business, will this year see local business women competing in up to fourteen categories, including; New Business, Green Business, Online Business, Networker of the Year, Small Business, Inspirational Woman, Home Based Business, Lifetime Achievement, High Achiever, Employee of the Year, Employer of the Year, Business Mother of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and Customer Service Award. There are only one or two categories left for sponsorship so any female friendly companies wishing to join the other sponsors in supporting the Awards still have a chance to support this fantastic event. The Daily Echo will again be sponsoring the exceptionally popular, ‘Business Mother of the Year,’ Award, which pays homage to the extraordinary role that is played by women not only in the workplace, but at home as well. Last year the Awards proved so popular with the winners that often some chose to become Sponsors the following. The Awards are unique in that anyone can nominate a friend, client or relative. There is a category for everyone. It is a simple online process so start thinking about who you could nominate in the SO postcode region.
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First PWO(AV)s flying high
Three naval aviators have become the first in Royal Navy history to graduate from the Principal Warfare Officers (Aviation) Course (PWO AV) at HMS Collingwood. Members of the Aviation Community, Maritime Warfare School and Maritime Warfare Centre gathered to witness the graduations. In a short presentation, Rear Admiral Russ Harding OBE, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Aviation and Carriers) welcomed everyone and commended the hard work and efforts of the staff and those who had been involved in making the inaugural course a success. After seven months of intensive training Lieutenant Commander Gavin Heirs, Lieutenant Commander Phil Barron and Lieutenant Ben Hunt, who formed class 13/01,
Psychic workshops at Whiteley Once a month a group of like mind people get together to discuss various psychic topics such as crystals, oracle cards, dowsing, palmistry, and angels. The workshops are interactive and are held at Whiteley Community Centre on the first Wednesday of each month, 7.15-9.15pm and are run on a drop in basis so no need to pre-book. The cost of the workshops is only £10 per person which includes refreshments and a free raffle. The classes have been run for over two years and many friendships have been made. They are organised by Neshla Avey, who also runs various other weekend and evening workshops as well as a successful Mind, Body & Spirit fayre held in Victory Hall, Warsash (next one is on 10th May, 2014). See the website for further information www.neshlaavey.com
10 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
successfully completed the course. The courses’ origins came from a recommendation by the Fleet Air Arm Manpower Sustainability Project Team to address the need for broader maritime and joint warfare training for aviators. It improves their career prospects for selection to senior appointments including Command Assignments across the Fleet to the new Queen Elizabeth Class Ships. The course encompassed joint battle space management, targeting, joint fires and air weapon effect. This broader warfare training and staff skill development enhances the maritime aviators’ utility in wider warfare employment and developed their advising skills to the operational and strategic level. Lieutenant Adian Riley who organised the presentation said “The true test of this first course will be in the individuals’ subsequent successful employment. The eyes of the FAA will be on them. With such interest in the course what happens next will enable us to further tailor the MWS product for the needs of the future.” Lieutenant Commander Gavin Heirs commented “All of us on course feel very privileged to be at the forefront of a new chapter in Naval Aviation History. This course is a huge step forward in additional Warfare training, achieving a level of parity with our surface Principal Warfare Officers for future Command positions. I’m looking forward to being able to use my new PWO(Av) qualification when I move to the CVF and Queen Elizabeth Class carrier air interface project in January.” Guests also witnessed a flyby from a Lynx Mk 8 from 815NAS, RNAS Yeovilton.
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Learn The Tarot
21st February – 8th April 2014 (8 weeks) Whiteley Community Centre 7.30 – 9.00 pm
For further details or to book your place please contact... ... NESHLA
AVEY on...
Have you ever tried to learn Tel: 01489 575695 Tarot from a book and Mobile: 07709 264356 given up? Email: info@neshlaavey.co.uk
Rather than trying to learn on your own, come and join a class and learn how to read simple spreads to practice on your friends and family.
Web: www.neshlaavey.com
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE LOOP
A massive thank you from Mr Menz
Wishing you all a Happy New Year Extra special memories are on their way The Loop is entertaining its readers, have no fear Sarisbury, Fareham, Stubbington and Titchfield too Deliveries to these homes; to name but a few Loyal readers eager to read this latest mag Awaiting their copy from their distributor’s bag Wishing you all a very Happy New Year from The Loop Always looking around for that local news scoop
Written by Linda Hanney
Waitrose to acquire The Co-operative branch in Locks Heath Waitrose, the food shops of the John Lewis Partnership, has today announced that it has reached an agreement with The Co-operative Group to acquire its shop at the Locks Heath Shopping Village in February 2014. All 122 employees at the shop will be offered the opportunity to join Waitrose and become Partners in the John Lewis Partnership. Waitrose is also hoping to create additional jobs at the branch. As Partners in the John Lewis Partnership they have a stake in the success of the business, a say in how it is run and a share in profits. The Co-op branch will continue to trade as normal until 20th February. It will then close for approximately five weeks while the shop is transformed, before opening as a Waitrose in March 2014. Waitrose will be launching its Community Matters and Partner Volunteering schemes in Locks Heath, which will see £12,000 and 250 hours donated to local causes nominated by customers each year. Nigel Keen, Director of Development at Waitrose, said: “We have wanted to open a shop in Locks Heath for a long time and are looking forward to becoming part of the local community next year and welcoming the new employees to Waitrose and the John Lewis Partnership.”
Kim and the team at Mr Menz would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported them with their fundraising in 2013. Without your help they could not have raised £640 for Cancer Research, £835 for German Shepherd Rescue and £70 for Children In Need.
HAIRCUTS ONLY £9 Concessions for OAPs and kids under 11, Mon - Fri
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LATE NIGHT THURSDAYS UNTIL 6.30PM APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE EVERY DAY FIRST HAIRCUT CERTIFICATES and play area for the little ones
FREE LOLLY POPS FOR GOOD BOYS FULLY AIR CONDITIONED SALON Please call the salon or see our website for information: www.mrmenz.co.uk Visit us at...
Mr Menz, 66 Barnes Lane, Sarisbury Green and see why everyone is talking about
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 11
The future of hospice care As The Rowans Hospice celebrates its 20th Anniversary, a report has been published on the future of hospice care which highlights the challenges facing hospices over the next 20 years. The Rowans Hospice was opened on 25th October 1994 and the 20th Anniversary programme of events was launched at a corporate relations evening held at Zurich in Whiteley in November. The event offered businesses a number of opportunities to support The Rowans Hospice including sponsorship of events, Charity of the Year Partnership and Corporate Friends. At the event, Ruth White, Chief Executive at The Rowans Hospice, outlined some of the national demographic projections which will impact on the future of hospice care, with a growing number of people looking to The Rowans Hospice for support: • Between 2020 and 2025 in England alone there will be an increase of over 4,000 deaths a year. From 2030 to 2035 this will increase to over 8,000
A forever home Cats Bertie and Benji have come together finding themselves homeless. It is known that Bertie’s owners moved house, leaving him to fend for himself. It is not known how Benji was left alone. They were given food and shelter and became friends. They are now in care and desperate for a loving family to adopt them. Bertie is approximately two years old and Benji approximately six years old. Bertie is very easy-going and affectionate. Benji will need patience and a lot of attention and love to gain his confidence
• By 2023 cancer will have risen in men by 30% and by 12% in women • In 1961, 12% lived alone. By 2033 there will be an estimated 11.3M living alone and 1.4M will be over 85 In addition, specific challenges for adult hospice care and the wider health and social care sector includes significant constraints on state funding; increasing numbers of children who, despite life shortening conditions, will live into adulthood and will look to hospice care; expectation will increase from the public; diminishing professional and paid workforce; increase in social deprivation and isolation, particularly in those who are frail and elderly; the oldest old may have no one to care for them as they may have pre-deceased family and older children. This event marked the launch of the 20th Anniversary Appeal to raise £500,000 to build for the future and to expand its community outreach to those who are living at home. Next year The Rowans Hospice will literally be building too; a new building, adjacent to the site to offer more supportive care. This has been made possible from Department of Health funding due to the increasing need for hospice care. Anne Yendell, Director of Finance & Operations at The Rowans
as he has been traumatised by his terri-
Hospice, said: “There are many ways which supporters can help us
ble experience, being under weight and
to achieve our aim to collectively build consistent, effective and
neglected. Anyone wishing to offer these cats (either
compassionate care for all who are affected by life-shortening illness – patients, family members, lay and professional carers. We hope that our supporters will want to either be a Friend of The
together or individually) a secure and
Rowans Hospice in our 20th Anniversary year or join us at one of
loving permanent home, please contact
our 20th Anniversary events.”
02380 435855.
For more information and opportunities to support The Rowans Hospice, please contact Head of Fundraising, Morna ClarkeHughes, on 023 9223 8533.
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Fareham Writers Have you ever fancied yourself as a writer? Ever thought ‘I could have written the item better than that?’ or, ‘I’ve got this great idea for a book.’ Here’s your chance to break into the world of fiction, scriptwriting, creative writing, sci-fi and put those latent literary talents into productivity mode. Fareham Writers is open to experienced writers and novices, young and old, bard or enthusiastic wannabe. They meet locally every month in the afternoon to read their work and provide critique and support for others. Look at their website www.farehamwriters.co.uk to see what they do. You could be the next J.K. Rowling!
Mayor supports ‘Switch Hampshire scheme’ to save money on energy bills Eastleigh Borough residents are being urged to register for the second ‘Switch Hampshire’ scheme, the collective energy switching service that could mean lower household bills for gas and electricity. Following the first round of Switch Hampshire which ran from May to July 2013, Hampshire County Council in partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council is pleased to announce that the scheme is re-opening over the winter. Registration opened on 10 December and is a quick and easy way to find out if you could save on your energy bills. It’s a hassle free way to see if you can save money on your energy bills: • There is no fee to join or to switch • You are under no obligation to switch • The scheme will handle your switch for you • It’s a secure scheme backed by your local authority The scheme covers residents who use gas or electricity (or both) and also those who use pre-payment meters. Residents do not have to agree to pay their bills by direct debit or online if they do decide to switch. Mayor of Eastleigh Cllr Malcolm Cross said: ”With the rising costs of domestic energy in the news at the moment, I encourage all our residents to sign up and register to get their ‘no obligation’ quote to see if they could save money on their gas and electricity bills.” To register with the scheme, you will need to know your current energy tariff for gas and/or electricity and how much energy you have used over the past year (either in £s or Kwhs). These details should be on your annual statement but if you cannot find them, your energy supplier will be able to provide you with this information. Once registration closes on 17 February, you will be contacted with details of how much you could save. There is no obligation to switch supplier but if you do decide to take up the offer the switching process will be managed for you. For more details and to register go to www.hants.gov.uk/switch or call 01962 846828.
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German Shepherd Rescue South German Shepherd Rescue South are a local registered charity based in Fareham who are totally reliant on the public’s support. They are always looking for foster carers who can offer a loving temporary home to a dog until their forever home is found. Do you miss the company of a dog but do not want the commitment of having one full time? Then this could be for you. Also they welcome volunteers who could help with home checks and transport. Whether you are thinking of fostering, adopting, volunteering or making a donation to the charity please see the website german-shepherd-rescue-hampshire.org.uk or call Carol Middleton 02392 221485 for further information. Always needed are dog leads, bowls, food,toys and bedding.
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contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 15
Wedding Celebration: Madeline and Matt Family and friends gathered in the New Forest when TV Producer, Madeline Broadbridge married TV Editor, Matt Chiari at The Master Builder’s House, Bucklers Hard, Beaulieu. Madeline grew up in Warsash, attended Hook with Warsash and Brookfield Schools and was an active member of Warsash Sailing Club before embarking on a television career with ITV Meridian in Southampton. When the studios closed its doors, Madeline moved to London and continued to work on several daytime programmes before being asked to produce ITV’s This Morning for seven years, during which time the show won two National Television Awards. More popular shows followed including Let’s Do Lunch with Gino D’Acampo and Melanie Sykes after which Madeline moved onto primetime television to produce Text Santa, ITV’s annual charity show and then Your Face Sounds Familiar, recorded at Elstree Studios and screened in the summer. She is now responsible for Saturday evening’s National Lottery Live for the BBC. Home is now a Georgian cottage in Surrey but, when time allows, Madeline likes nothing more than to pop back to Warsash to see her family and friends.
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24th Birthday
Birth of a child
Wishing Ben Smith a cracking 24th birthday in February! Haven’t changed a bit! Love your friends.
Congratulations to Jamille and Natalie for the birth of their beautiful daughter Mia. x
Congratulations to Jake Kemp, aged 21, from Stubbington, on becoming Australian beat boxing champion 2013! ‘Keeping it real’ - Tom Morriss in Stubbington
Congratulations to Toby Darling in Whiteley for getting through to the next televised round of Britain’s Got Talent! Good Luck and you have the Loop’s Vote !
Herald a birth, celebrate a marriage or honour a passed loved one... Advertise in our Family Announcements feature to celebrate a family member or friend. This feature will include notices of births, birthdays, engagements, marriages, bereavements and even notices of personal achievements, such as passing exams or the winning of awards. contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 17
Sailors give Portchester a delightful Christmas
Locks Heath swimmers end the year in style Locks Heath Swim Squad ended the year on a high with success at two competitions in December. At the Peter Bull meet at Waterlooville a team of twelve swimmers competed over a full weekend in a BAGCAT competition where the competitors race in a wide range of distances and strokes. The small team achieved over fifty Personal Best Times and added another nine Hampshire County Championship Qualifying Times to the growing collection. Nine year old Mary Edwards, thirteen year old Jessica Larby and twelve year old William Whitlock were awarded trophies for finishing as overall winners in their age group. Nine year old Thomas Larby finished 4th, Joshua Beaudro 8th, Kyle Kirkland 11th and Ella Richardson-Fitt 10th. In the ten years age group Shannon Lamb placed 7th, Harrison Kennedy 16th and Finley Doubleday 17th. Tess Edwards was 7th in the eleven years and Shona McGrath 10th in the thirteen years. Two weeks later Locks Heath Swim Squad was back in action at the Southampton Christmas Meet. Fourteen swimmers competed achieving many more PB’s and another five HCCQT’s (including a first for Sophie Firth). Medals at this meet were awarded for individual events. Mary Edwards collected two Silvers in 50m Butterfly and 50m Breaststroke, Lucy Newton went home with a full set – Gold in 100m Backstroke, Silver in 100m Freestyle and Bronze in 20m Freestyle. The boys also did well; William Whitlock collected Gold in 100m Freestyle and 100m Backstroke as well as Silver in 100m Butterfly, 50m Breaststroke and 50m Freestyle. Ben Willsmore took two Bronze medals in 50m Butterfly and 100m Backstroke.
Sailors aided a local community at the last minute by helping put up the Christmas lights in the town centre just in time for their big switch on last Friday. Eight phase 2 trainee sailors who are half way through their Warfare Specialist Training Course at HMS Collingwood Fareham took a few hours out to help Portchester Community Association (PCA) put up the Christmas lights in the precinct. On a very cold, windy morning joined by Sarah Moss from the PCA and other volunteers, the sailors erected scaffolding, untangled lights and decorated the trees with them in the centre of Portchester. Sarah Moss, Manager at the PCA remarked “Once again we were very grateful for the support from the volunteers from Victory Squadron at HMS Collingwood. This fantastic event would never had taken place without their assistance. These young people are always so polite and enthusiastic and are a pleasure to have helping us.” Local businesses also showed their support and appreciation for the efforts of the sailors by providing them with food to keep them motivated in the cold. Able Rate Alice Cunningham from Gosport, Class Leader for the Warfare Specialist group who helped out commented “It’s great to be involved with this local community project, especially one I know as I’m from round the corner. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s also been good to take the class out of the base to show them the area and how the Royal Navy can really support and impact the community around them.”
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Portraits by Ali
St Mary’s is an exceptional place On walking onto the College site there is a special atmosphere that you can see on the faces of the students. You can feel it in their enthusiasm for everything that they do, the students are happy to be there. The pastoral support that St Mary’s provide encourages and nurtures their students at every step and has built a community that cherishes mutual respect, develops moral values and ensures that every child feels special. These are the values that they continue to pursue and maintain and, with the current financial situation, they recognise the commitment that parents have to make to access this kind of educational provision, but the rewards are self-evident. Although league tables are not their prime concern or driving force, their students continually achieve outstanding results. The small class sizes and personal level of tutoring ensure that every child not just matters but is known.
Ali Eales is professional local artist based near Winchester, Hampshire who creates bespoke portraiture commissions at
1922 - 2012
A great education
affordable prices. Ali’s work captures the spirit of the sitter in an artistic style that
is more affordable than you think...
is beautiful in its clean simplicity and fresh feel.
www.stmaryscollege.co.uk t: 023 8067 1267 57 Midanbury Lane, Bitterne Park, Southampton SO18 4DJ
Working from a photograph in either pencil, watercolour or charcoal, Ali will create an image that adds a twinkle to the wall of any home. A portrait by Ali is unique, a fantastic way to display a treasured memory. They make brilliant bespoke gifts for special occasions such as birthdays, mothers, fathers and grandparents day! The commissioning process is simple. Just get in touch with your idea, email an image and your portrait will arrive through the post. Framing can also be provided.
ance Exam Entr
A standard watercolour or pencil portrait is £75 inc p&p, with a 15% discount for Loop readers. Ali Eales is a visual artist working throughout the UK South
n io at
Winchester School of Art in 2000 Ali has worked as a portraiture
15
Coast and London. Since completing post-graduate study at
8th January 2014. rday 1 9.0 Satu 0r o inist 12 014 Contact our Adm ration Office 2 y f r . or a u m n a o J r h ei 11t nf or Saturday m
artist completing commissions, both large and small, for individuals and organisations. Ali also works as a freelance artist educator providing visual arts education for a range of local institutions, schools, charities and art centres, including Southampton City Art Gallery.
Charlton House
St. Mary’s College
Nursery
Charlton House
St. Mary’s College Preparatory Dept
Educating Girls & Boys age 3 - 16 in a caring Christian environment
portraitsbyali@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.facebook.com/PortraitsbyAliEales
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contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 19
THE LOOP VISITS... The UK Space Environments Conference 2013
“Bringing together the worlds of academia and industry to create future terrestrial opportunities and inspire the next generation”. – UK Space Biomedical Consortium A conference is not just about the person presenting on stage, it’s about awareness. It’s through that open space in the room in which new thoughts and constructs can be voiced, interpreted and dispersed. It’s about giving a platform to the idea. In 2012, 3 billion people worldwide watched Felix Baumgartner, do his historic Red bull stratos jump. At the UK Space Environments Conference 2013 (UKSEC2013) we had the pleasure of welcoming the man behind keeping Felix alive, Dr Jon Clark. He talked about the team’s journey and the challenges they faced, including the invention of new aerospace technologies. One step to overcome was how to ventilate Felix should he suffer lung damage from low pressure exposure while diving to earth. The solution was percussive ventilation, which now can help make high altitude bailouts and activities, including space flight re-entry safer. It also presents a terrestrial benefit in assisting with the care of patients who have suffered severe lung trauma or damage, potentially saving lives and improving quality of healthcare. Early this year, Major Tim Peake the first professional British astronaut to be recruited into the European Space Agency’s (ESA) astronaut corps was assigned his first space mission: To live and work aboard the International Space Station, performing micro-gravity science experiments, over a six month period in 2015.. With the UK space sector growing by an average of 9% each year and contributing over £10 billion to the economy new innovations and investments are constantly being created. Indeed new
20 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
research focusing on how to enable humans to love longer in space is currently in development in the UK to facilitate his and future missions. These technologies could have important consequences in improving terrestrial healthcare as well particularly in the athletic and aging population with reference to muscle and bone mass. This in turn could have positive consequences for the economy. At the conference Tim spoke about how his preparation for space flight was going and how others could get involved in space research or even train to be an astronaut! Whilst to some it may seem a dream remember Tim was brought up in a small town called Chichester. A good scientist can work alone, a great one collaborates. One of the key themes around the conference was how to enable industry, academia and students to collaborate further. This led to the idea to forge a new UK Space Environments Association, dedicated to enabling more crowd sourcing, team building, equipment sharing and shared knowledge bases across space environments research. With the new government initiative providing £100million to further international collaboration in research, this comes at an important time for science, which can lead to more breakthroughs, start-up companies, jobs and economic returns. It’s no good having a great idea if you can’t share it, so a large component of the conference was about reaching out to the wider community. Here there were talks from Skylon providing an update on the development of the new UK space engine, the sabre, for use in its future space vehicle’s. Also the Max Planck Institute’s Professor Gregor Morfill discussed how through studying the behaviours of plasma in space could provide benefits to Earth, including looking at non-contact sterilisation, a technique
that could have revolutionary properties for curtailing the spread of infections in hospitals and at high yield transfer sites. Through the study and investment in aerospace technology a wide variety of terrestrial benefits can be created. Remember your mobile phone is space technology, look how that has revolutionised the world of commerce and communication. During Dr Jon Clark’s outreach talk, Mya, a 4 year old girl, asked Jon if “she could go higher than Felix?” Jon’s reply “why not!” The National Space Centre in Leicester was truly provided an excellent platform in which to enable this idea sharing
If you would like to get involved in space science, there are some excellent resources available, from Southdown’s planetarium (www.southdowns.org.uk/sdpt/), to your national space program (/www.bis.gov.uk/ukspaceagency), training kids to be astronauts (/trainlikeanastronaut.org/). Remember Space doesn’t begin out there: it begins with you. Phil Carvil UK Space Biomedicine Association
In 2015 we see Tim doing his mission in space but also the anniversary of our association, so stay tuned for an even larger conference in 2015, where we hope Tim will be able to make a live call from the space station to tell us about his 6 month expedition on the space station, it will also feature new ideas and insights into the world of space life science, so follow us on twitter (@UKSBA_Events) and our website to stay up to date. (www.uksbaconference.co.uk).
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 21
“You can go through it, or you can grow through it” Divorce is one of the most painful and emotionally draining
themselves together” in a matter of weeks, unaided. The work-
experiences that a human being can have.
shop enables people to better understand what they are going
The Divorce Recovery Workshop was established in the UK in
through, provides them with support from others in the same
1992. It helps people to deal with adjustment after the trauma
situation and assists in the process of readjustment in their lives.
of a marriage break-up. It is hard to cope with this alone,
It offers a secure environment for discussion and understanding
and friends and family often find it difficult to understand
of feelings, with a new circle of friends when the workshop is
the full implications and issues. Some problems are never
over.
successfully resolved without resort to professional counsel-
The Southampton branch of DRW has been operating in the
ling, which is either expensive or has a long waiting list. The
area for over 13 years and we are due to run the 26th session
Divorce Recovery Workshop is an interim approach. It is run
starting in the spring. The next workshop will be held at St
by volunteers using video material as a catalyst for group
Luke’s Church, off Shamblehurst Way, Hedge End, running for six
discussion between participants in small groups of about six
weeks. Starting on 29th April. The cost is £60 for six sessions in-
to eight people. The discussions are facilitated by people who
cluding tea and coffee. Numbers will be limited so it is import-
have been through the course themselves and the workshop
ant to register beforehand.
is open to anyone who has experienced the breakdown of a
For further details please phone:
long term relationship.
Sally on 01329 828309 or visit the website at www.drw.org.uk
DRW provides a small, safe support group of people who have been through the same experience and who have personal insight into many of the complex issues. The depth of emotional suffering of the newly separated or divorced is not generally realised. While society allows the bereaved years to adjust, the divorced are frequently expected to “pull
22 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
OUT & ABOUT
Wickham Festival announce ambitious plans for 2014 One of the biggest live music festivals in the south, the family-friendly Wickham Festival, has announced ambitious plans for 2014. The 4-day Festival held just outside the historic village of Wickham, near Fareham, will feature live music on three stages plus a host of other attractions between Thursday 14th and Sunday 17th August 2014. The Festival which has attracted big-name artists in recent years including Jools Holland; K T Tunstall; The Waterboys; 10cc; Dexys; and The Proclaimers is currently booking headline acts for 2014. Artists already confirmed include Steve Earle & The Dukes from North America; Bellowhead; Oysterband; Afro Celt Sound System; Dreadzone; Altan (Ireland); Thea Gilmore; Hazel O’Connor; and The Men They Couldn’t Hang. Other attractions will include a solar-powered cinema tent; digital funfair; storytelling; shanty singing; street theatre; children’s entertainers; dance displays; a traditional crafts fayre; exotic foods fayre; and real ale Festival with over 30 beers from Hampshire breweries. The 5000-capacity Festival attracts artists and audience members from all over the world, giving a major boost to the local economy. Festival Organiser Peter Chegwyn says the event is recognised as one of the safest and friendliest festivals in the U.K. with not a single reported crime or incident of trouble last year. “Many people enjoy Wickham because there’s such a relaxed atmosphere with some great live music, much of it under cover in huge circus-style ‘Big Tops’ so it doesn’t matter if it rains. “Artists love playing here and we’ll be announcing some really great names in the coming weeks”, said Mr. Chegwyn. ‘Earlybird’ weekend season tickets are already on sale with attrac-
tive discounts for booking early. Day tickets are also available. For full details of this year’s Festival please see the Festival website at www.wickhamfestival.co.uk or telephone the Box Office on 023 8071 1818.
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 23
OUT & ABOUT
Great music at Botley Market Hall
Botley Market Hall is gaining a reputation for promoting wonderful live entertainment. This reputation will be enhanced by a great musical evening to be held on Saturday 25th January, at 7pm, when the acclaimed local choir, VOX POP, will be performing an evening of popular chart and vintage songs guaranteed to warm your heart and help give a lift to the new year. They have performed across the South of England. Tickets £10 from 01489 781155 or 01489 782183.
Whiteley WAGs celebrate 3rd birthday Whiteley WAGs WI celebrated their third birthday in style in November by hosting a 1940s style tea party for members and visitors. The third birthday celebrations were topped off by demonstrations of 1940s style make up by staff from Boots No 7 in Whiteley Centre and Southampton-based Vintage Hair Lounge provided 1940s style hairstyles. The WI group was started in 2010 by local Whiteley woman, Chloe Bowler, who is one of the national WI’s youngest group presidents. She has worked tirelessly to make the group a very successful WI, growing steadily in popularity and now regularly attracts over 50 ladies of all ages and backgrounds from the local area to its monthly meetings. The world has changed beyond all recognition since the formation of the WI in 1915 but the WI still remains true to its roots of bringing local people together but a century on there is so much more to the WI than jam and buns! The Whiteley WAGs have an active Crafts group, monthly Book Club, Dress 4 Dinner Club and have just started a walking group, The Tramps, offering informal walks to include friends, family, dogs and children. Anyone wishing to join the Whiteley WAGs WI can come along to their next meeting, they will be made very welcome. The group meets at Whiteley Primary School on the second Thursday of each month at 7.30pm.
Lions Clubs Swanwick
meet on the first Wednesday of the month at Sarisbury Green Community Centre at 8pm. Phone 08458334359.
Southampton Solent meet on the second Monday of the month at Broadlaw Community Centre at 8pm. Phone 0845334358.
Fareham meet on the second Monday of the month at Broadlaw Community Centre at 8pm. Phone 08458334342.
Gosport & Lee-on-the-Solent meet on the first Tuesday of the month at Court Barn Club. Court Barn Lane, Lee-on-the-Solent at 8pm. Phone 08458339887.
Crofton meet on the second Tuesday of the month at The Crofton, Crofton Lane, Stubbington at 7.30pm.
24 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
Locks Heath U3A Open Day GROUP DISPLAYS & PRESENTATIONS FRIDAY 28th FEBRUARY 2014 1.30 - 3.30 pm AT ST JOHN’S CHURCH HALLS LOCKS HEATH PARK ROAD LOCKS HEATH Go along and see what your local U3A can offer. Group Leaders and members will be available to tell you more. It’s never too late to learn! Join the 319,635 members in 908 U3As throughout the UK today REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE# Website u3asites.org.uk/Locks Heath
Live music nights at the Horse & Jockey
OUT & ABOUT The Horse & Jockey
CURBRIDGE
At the head of Curbridge Creek lies the Horse and Jockey – a real winner of a pub that offers you a seat right at the water’s edge. A popular retreat for ramblers exploring the nearby wildlife sanctuary, the pub promises home-made food and lush liquid refreshment. There are quiz nights every Tuesday, as well as regular live music evenings. Bookings are now being taken for Valentine’s Day. Live music nights: 17th January - Castletown: an acoustic guitar duo 31st January - The Power of 3: blues, jazz and swing 21st February - This Way Up: a blues band Remember to check the high tide time on their website: Tel: 01489 796654 www.horseandjockeycurbridge.co.uk
LOCAL groups
Solent Fuchsia Club meet on the first Tuesday of each month in the United Reform Church, starting at 7.30pm. For further details call: 01329 282186.
Warsash WI meet on the
last Thursday of each month in the Victory Hall, starting at 2pm. New members welcome. For more information phone Mary Ford on 01489 584923
• Free Wi-Fi • Live Music • Specials Boards • All Ingredients Fresh & Locally Sourced Where Possible • Gluten Free Options Available • Quiz Night Every Tuesday • Themed Nights • Plenty of Parking • Small Boats, Canoes & Kayaks Can Moor at High Tide
For Bookings 01489 796654
Botley Road, Curbridge SO30 2HB www.fullers.co.uk horseandjockeybotley@gmail.com
Sarisbury Choral Society is a mixed
choir of about 35 members. They meet on Thursdays in the Community Centre, Sarisbury Green from 7.50 to 9.20 pm. New members are welcome. Visit sarisburychoralsociety.weebly.com
Warsash Horticultural Society meet on the last Wednesday of each month in the Victory Hall, starting at 7.30pm. For more information phone Suzanne Holleyoak on 01489 574498.
Locks Heath U3A meetings are held at St. John’s Church Hall, Locks Heath Park Road on the last Friday of the month from 2-4 pm. Members can park in the church grounds and
nearby roads. There is a speaker each month and tea and biscuits will be available at the end of the meeting. There are numerous Interest Groups where you can learn together with fellow members in a friendly environment.
Sarisbury Green WI
Titchfield Abbey WI
meet on the third Thursday of the month at 1.45pm at the Community Centre. Visitors and new members welcome.
meet on the second Tuesday of each month in the Community Centre, starting at 9.30am. Visitors and newcomers are welcome.
Hedge End WI
meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month in the Hedge End 2000 Centre, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm (doors open at 6.45pm).
Locks Heath WI
meet on the third Wednesday of each month in the Memorial Hall on Locks Heath Park Road, starting at 7pm.
Whiteley
Wags first meeting of 2014 is on Thursday 9 January at 7.30pm at Whiteley Primary School. They meet on the second Thursday of every month.
Titchfield WI meet on the second Wednesday of each month in Titchfield Evangelical Church, High St, Titchfield at 7:30 pm. Visitors are always very welcome.
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 25
SHORT STORY
Calm waters
by Dan Boylan, Fareham Writers
The old man sat in his stuffed armchair,
kitchen and could smell the delicious aroma
tripod. Above the mantelpiece hung a large
gazing through the bay window at the river,
of fresh baked bread. What could she know
painting of The ‘Princess Marie rounding the
far below. A late autumn squall was blowing
of sailors out at sea in a force eight? What
Cape of Good Hope’; her top gallants ripped
up the estuary and a variety of sailboats,
could she know of reefing the mains and
loose and flying wild as she ran before a
fishing smacks and coasters were making
gathering the tops’ls as the ship tossed from
force eight... perhaps the Captain’s most
upstream for a safe mooring. He watched
side to side, buffeted by powerful waves,
exciting and most memorable day’s sailing.
with interest as they vied for a berth, tied up
pitched up and down on a sea of white
and dropped and furled their sails.
water? What could anyone, who had never
furnishings were high quality teak and
sailed the vast oceans, know of such perils?
mahogany from the orient, the decorative
It was warm in the front room, logs crackled merrily in the grate and Emily had
He glanced around the room again. A
The floor was polished hardwood; the
rugs from Arabia. It was the home of a
laid a woollen blanket across his legs. He
sailor’s room, the walls festooned with
wealthy, self made man and lovingly
glanced again at the barometer, as he had
pictures of sailing ships, marine charts,
maintained by a wife who had stayed at
every few minutes all afternoon. 990 milli-
barometers and time-pieces, brass oil
home during his numerous voyages.
bars and still falling; he grimaced.
lamps and in the bay window, a huge
He could hear Emily softly humming in the
brass telescope mounted on a hardwood
26 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
A schooner hove into view, tall and elegant. He could tell from the way she sat upright
and deep in the water that her hold was full
comfortably off with a sea-chest full of
maelstrom. “Pull hard me boys, pull hard!” He
of cargo. The crew scurried across her yards
Spanish doubloons, I’ll wager. You’ve a good
roared.
taking in her sails; she dropped anchor mid
wife to care for you. Eat well, fresh vegetables
channel and began to batten down the
and lots of fresh fruit. Take a grain of
wave broke over the bows as another
hatches. He brought the telescope to his eye
laudanum when the pain is bad. Enjoy your
ploughed into her starboard beam. As they
and tried to read her name and home port
retirement, you’ve earned it!’
crested the next breaker, the Captain caught
but she lay beam on to him. He gazed across the river in the failing light
Words that would return time after time to haunt him... Suddenly, there came a frantic
They cleared the headland and a mighty
a brief glimpse of the collier and brought the tiller round a degree or two.
and watched the stream of seamen, in small
hammering at the door and a raised voice
“Half a league, me boys, half a league.” He
knots as they trudged up the stone steps
edged with panic. Then a cold draught as
bellowed above the raging wind and driving
towards The Mermaid. Oil lamps flickered
the door was flung wide and the opening
rain.
in the tavern windows and he noticed the
filled with the unmistakable frame Coxswain
curl of smoke spiralling from the chimney
George Jackson, clad in oilskins and
before it was whipped away by the wind. He
sou’wester, dripping with rainwater. ‘Skipper,
onto the crest and down again. Expertly, foot
grinned inwardly as he imagined the sailor’s
Skipper, we need help, there’s a small collier
by foot, he coaxed the cutter towards the
delight at an unexpected chance to warm
out on the reef. Her cargo has shifted and
listing collier. The coxswain managed to get
their bones, slake their thirst and eat a hot
she’s badly listing to starboard. I’ve got a crew
a line to her and for a difficult half hour, they
meal on solid ground. Later, he fancied there
together but we need a skilled helmsman
pulled the desperate seamen one by one
would be shanties and songs of girls left in
who can get us through the surf and onto the
onboard.
distant ports drifting across the water. After
reef. I reckon you’re the only man for the job. I
dark as the ale flowed, there would be peels
know you’re not in good shape but we’ll carry
of laughter as they staggered back to their
you down to the cutter if we have to.”
moorings. The memories of a thousand such adventures in a hundred ports across the world brought a rare smile to his lips.
Into the trough, ‘heave’, up, up the roller,
He rose with some difficulty, “I’ll get my oilskins.” Then Emily appeared at the kitchen door and asked, “What is all this fuss about?”
position and pulled the blanket up to
“We need a good helmsman, Mistress.
his chest. His condition had deteriorated
There’s a ship in trouble out on the reef and
rapidly after he turned fifty, from the pain
the Captain’s best there is.” The coxswain
and stiffening in his hands to crippling,
replied.
were now gone. For a man who could scale the tallest masts and nimbly tie off knots and
cutter off and the captain swung her around towards the lighthouse. He navigated her through the foaming, windswept water and
He shuffled into a more comfortable
debilitating arthritis, and his knees and hips
The oarsmen pushed the overloaded
edged her through the harbour entrance. The crew and rescued mariners, all now exhausted managed a cheer, ‘Three cheers for the helmsman’, someone called. It was almost dusk when Emily strolled into
“Now you just wait on minute Coxswain, my husband’s a sick man, he can’t...”
the front room carrying a small tray with a cup of coffee and a piece of cake, “Are you
But she was too late. The Coxswain had
hitches, to an invalid unable to tie his own
hoisted the Captain onto his shoulder and set
boot laces in a few short years.
off down the hill and into the raging storm.
feeling better dearest, after your little nap!”
‘A common enough ailment among seamen, Captain,’ the Doctor had said. ‘No
“Cast away!” The Captain called but his
doubt the result of years of cold and wet
words were caught on the wind and went
conditions, poor diet and plain hard work.
unheard. He signalled with his left hand and
Most of your shipmates don’t make old
the oarsmen dipped their oars and heaved.
bones and those who live beyond forty are
He steered her into the leeside channel and
usually destined for the poor-house. You’re
they made good progress into the churning
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 27
The Snowman flies into Southampton in January ‘This is sheer theatrical magic. Go see
onstage by an array of colourful
The Snowman and melt.’ The Times
characters including dancing penguins,
Celebrating 20 spellbinding years on the stage the live version of Raymond Briggs’ much-loved children’s classic, The Snowman, visits the Mayflower Theatre from 21 – 25 January 2014 to enchant audiences of all ages. Sparkling with charm and wit, The Snowman tells the magical story of a young boy’s adventures when his snowman comes miraculously to life on Christmas Eve. A glittering host of international snowmen and snowwomen are joined
ago.
magical reindeer, a beautiful snow
The film’s signature song Walking In The
princess and her abominable beau Jack
Air, by Howard Blake, reached number 3
Frost and of course, Father Christmas
in the UK charts when sung by choirboy
himself. With its joyful combination of
Aled Jones in 1985, and the song was
classic storytelling, music and dance, The
voted number 2 in a poll conducted by
Snowman is an enchanting treat for all
Classic FM to find out children’s favourite
the family.
pieces of classical music, beating Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and
THE SNOWMAN first appeared as a
Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Sugar Plum
beautifully illustrated picture book by
Fairy amongst others.
Raymond Briggs in 1978. It subsequently inspired the classic Oscar Nominated,
Since its premiere at Birmingham
BAFTA award-winning animated film,
Repertory Theatre in 1993 the live stage
produced by John Coates and directed
show of The Snowman has been seen by
by Dianne Jackson first transmitted by
over 1 million people worldwide and has
Channel 4 on Christmas Eve thirty years
thrilled audiences at the Peacock Theatre,
28 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
London for a record-breaking 15 years. The show made its international debut at the Seoul Opera House, Korea in 2009 and in 2010 a performance of the stage show was filmed in the auditorium of Birmingham Repertory Theatre - the show’s birthplace - with a live audience, 14 cameras and a superb narration by Joanna Lumley. It is now on major DVD release in the UK.
Listings Information Dates: Tuesday 21 – Saturday 25 January 2014 Suitable for children aged four and upwards. Box Office: 02380 711811 Online booking: mayflower.org.uk
Kerrie-Jayne Bingham has won four tickets to the Snowman with her winning entry in our front cover competition. To apply to next issue’s competition see the details on page 4.
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 29
The World’s First Stewardess A historic aviation feature by Dan Boylan of Fareham Writers Today, the colourful teams of air
first stewardess, on a flight between
persuaded new stewardesses to sign a
stewardesses are a common sight at any
San Francisco and Chicago when she
pledge that they would remain single for
airport. Smart, efficient and an integral
‘hosted’ a 24 seat passenger plane, which
an 18 month period!.
part of your flight safety and comfort. You
took a total of 20 hours and involved
might think that they’ve been around for
13 landings and take-offs. She was later
presence of the stewardesses, so the
years, and, well they have. And their early
joined by seven other girls, all originally
airline retained them and hired more.
formation is as interesting as their daily
deployed on the BAT route from Oakland
Other airlines followed the example and
routines.
to Chicago, who were and immediately
the Sky-Girls quickly became an integral
knick-named ‘The Sky Girls’.
part of commercial aviation. Miss Church
After WW1, commercial aviation took to
The passengers liked the reassuring
the skies and slowly, but steadily, tried to
The introduction of stewardess service
attract a section of the travelling public.
proved to be an instant and indisputable
the airline industry and perhaps the first
One reason for its limited success was
success for BAT and passengers were
female to serve as a flight manager.
that most people still considered flying
much comforted and well served by the
far too dangerous. The new airline chiefs
nurse-stewardesses. Within the next three
Cresco, Iowa, USA and trained as a nurse
realised that to coax passengers away
years, most airlines followed BAT’s lead
in San Francisco. After 18 months of ‘Sky-
from railways and into the air they would
in providing an airborne stewardesses
Girls’ service, she was grounded following
have to persuade them that aviation was
service.
a car accident. She left commercial
safe and reliable. Steve Stimpson, the Traffic Manager
The requirements for the first wave of
was one of the first women to work in
Ellen Church was born on a farm near
aviation and enrolled on a nursing course
stewardesses were rigid and precise. In
at University of Minnesota and gained
of Boeing Air Transport (BAT) was
addition to being qualified nurses (which
a degree in nursing education. During
considering employing an ‘on board’
meant women only), they had to be
World War 2, she enlisted in the Army
agent to soothe the nerves and fears of
unmarried, younger than 25 years old;
Nursing Corps (Air Evacuation Service),
first time air passengers, when he was
weigh less than 115 pounds and stand
was promoted to Captain and served in
approached by a young lady who asked
less than 5 feet, 4 inches tall (to manage
North Africa, Sicily, Southern England,
for a job as a pilot. She was Ellen Church,
the narrow isles and low ceilings). Their
and France and was awarded a Air Medal
a registered nurse from Iowa who was
responsibilities in the early years were
for her distinguished work. Later she
so fascinated by aviation that she been
numerous and far from glamorous. They
moved to Terre Haute, Indiana where
taking flying lessons. Although Stimpson
were required to ‘meet and greet’, show
she was appointed director of nursing at
wouldn’t hire Miss Church as a pilot, he
the passengers to their seats, reassure
the Union Hospital. Ever active, she died
did see the potential in some of her ideas
nervous passengers, serve soft drinks
following a horse-riding accident in 1965.
regarding passenger care and comforts.
and snacks, stow the luggage on board,
Her suggestion that BAT arranged for
secure down loose seats and even help
is named Ellen Church Field in her
nurses to travel onboard planes to allay
pilots fuel the aircraft and push planes
honour.
the public’s anxiety and fears of flying
into hangars and supervise cleaning
appealed to Stimpson and he convinced
of the cabin. For their services, the
attendant, which applies to both men
his superiors of the advantages of the
first intake of BAT stewardesses were
and women. There are about 100,000 in
plan. BAT, the predecessor to United
paid $125 a month. The stewardesses
the U.S. alone. They continue to operate
Airlines, began what their competitors
designed a stewardesses uniform on a
from a similar Code of Standards that
considered to be a bold experiment
part nurse, part military style and devised
Miss Church and her ‘Sky-Girl’ colleagues
when they hired eight nurses to work
a Code of Standards which set the girls
devised in 1930.
as stewardesses on all their flights for
terms of service and conduct. Later,
a three-month trial run. On May 15
as marriage was considered the end
1930, Ellen Church became the world’s
of a stewardess’s career, some airlines
30 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
The municipal airport at nearby Cresco
Today, the official term is flight
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contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 31
FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES
Moore McCusker Associates Over a million families will lose child benefit in 2013 with half a million having to fill out a self-assessment tax form each year to continue receiving the benefit. Many will also be asked to pay back the benefit by way of an income tax charge. If one parent has income of over £50,000 a year, the family will receive less child benefit. Income includes everything that would normally be declared for tax purposes. It is still important to complete claims for any new children, even if parents don’t actually get any child benefit. For each week you are entitled to the cash, you could qualify for National Insurance credits which can help to protect future entitlement to the state pension. The parent with the highest income will be liable to the charge and will have to complete and submit the tax return. If the tax return is not submitted on time they will receive a £100 late filing penalty. Taxpayers who do not complete a tax return because all their income is taxed at source, will now have to fill out a self-assessment form. HMRC has not written to all those are affected to explain what to do. If they already fill out a self-assessment form, they will need to include the information relating to child benefit in their tax returns for 2012/13 and beyond. Moore McCusker of Moore McCusker Associates says that, “This is a complicated system which is resulting in confusion and resentment among taxpayers.”
32 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
He advises that taxpayers who find themselves with a tax return to complete for the first time should deal with it immediately. “There is nothing to gain by delaying”. They should have received most of the information necessary by 19 May. Taxpayers with additional tax to pay should aim to have their tax return as soon as possible so that they can budget for the tax liability due by 31 January 2014. Moore recommends taxpayers to, “Keep your papers in order in a folder to enable you to prepare your tax return”. In his experience, as filing deadlines approach, tax papers go missing – so start prepping early. “If you wish to use a tax adviser, remember that not all accountants are tax advisers. The Chartered Institute of Taxation provide a search facility at www.tax.org.uk/ about_the_ciot/find-a-cta “Of course, if a husband and wife have different incomes with one earning £60,000 and the other £35,000, they may wish to transfer income earning assets between trhem so that the lower earner receives more income thus reducing the higher earner’s income to less than £60,000 and preserving the child benefit claim”. Moore McCusker can be contacted Warsash Accountants on moore@mooretax.co.uk or by Year End Accounts calling 01489 247047
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MOTORING New chapter for BMW dealership
An exciting new chapter has begun at the BMW dealership in Chandlers Ford. Previously Scotthall BMW the now privately owned BMW and MINI business has been renamed Partridge of Hampshire. Toby Partridge, Managing Director said “I was fortunate to purchase the dealership in April and have a very clear objective. To deliver 5 star service to all our customers. I believe it is our job to deliver a standard of service that echoes the quality of the BMW brand.” Along with the new ownership and a renewed focus on customer satisfaction, November sees the launch of the much talked about BMW i3. The fully electric BMW i3 is BMW’s answer to zero emissions motoring. One day the idea of driving an electric vehicle will become the norm. After all, diesels were once a novelty. The visionary design the BMW i3 defines the car of tomorrow. Its innovative eDrive technology offers an almost silent driving experience combined with the reliability and premium finish traditional BMW vehicles are renowned for. This remarkable vehicle is now available to test drive at Partridge of Hampshire. The official BMW i dealer currently has one vehicle in the showroom to demonstrate the advanced technology while customers are able to test drive a second vehicle on a specially designed test drive route. To book your appointment and experience the BMW i3 for yourself call the BMW i Genius at Partridge BMW on 02381 630252 now.
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 33
Cast announced for A Number at Nuffield Theatre Michael Longhurst directs father and son, John and Lex Shrap-
of work marks a further deepening of the relationship between
nel, in a new production of Caryl Churchill’s A Number, with set
Nuffield and the University of Southampton, a world leader in sci-
design by Tom Scutt and lighting by Lee Curran, in their first
ence and engineering, in particular, epigenetics and biomedicine.
collaboration since the award-winning and Olivier-nominated Constellations (Royal Court and West End).
A Number was originally produced by the Royal Court in September 2002. Directed by Stephen Daldry, the play starred Michael
“We’ve got 99% the same genes as any other person.
Gambon and Daniel Craig and won the Evening Standard Award
We’ve got 30% the same as a lettuce. Does that cheer you up at
for Best Play. Real life father and son, John and Lex Shrapnel, take on the roles
all?” Bernard thinks he’s an only child. At the age of 35, he learns oth-
of father and son(s). John Shrapnel plays Salter. His theatre credits include: An Enemy
erwise. Discovering the results of a scientific experiment that left
of the People (Sheffield Crucible), Phaedra (National Theatre/Epid-
him as one of “a number” of clones, Bernard confronts his father,
aurus/Washington DC), King Lear (Liverpool Everyman/Young Vic),
Salter. As clones reveal themselves identities are challenged, but
Harold Pinter’s The Hothouse (Chichester/West End), Hamlet, The
how will Salter reveal the true events of the past? And more impor-
Dybbuk, Thebans and Measure For Measure (Royal Shakespeare
tantly, which Bernard is the original?
Company). Television and film credits include: Waking The Dead,
A Number is an urgent play asking human questions of a complex
New Tricks, Inspector Lynley, Midsomer Murders, Hornblower,
scientific debate, not least the moral and human dilemmas when
Inspector Morse, Jonathan Creek, Gladiator, Notting Hill and 101
experimentation gets out of control. Churchill pushes the bound-
Dalmatians.
aries of scientific possibility to put an astonishing twist on parental
Lex Shrapnel plays Bernard 1, Bernard 2 and Michael Black. His
guilt and sibling rivalry, on the nature/nurture debate and even the
theatre credits include: Hedda Gabler (Royal & Derngate Theatre,
idea of free will.
Northampton), The Deep Blue Sea and Death of a Salesman (West
Caryl Churchill is a one of Britain’s leading playwrights, whose
Yorkshire Playhouse), Serious Money (Birmingham Rep), Richard II,
trail-blazing plays include Cloud Nine, Top Girls, Serious Money, Far
Henry IV Part I, Henry V, Henry VI Parts 1, 2, 3 and Richard III (Royal
Away and Fen.
Shakespeare Company). His film and television credits include Cap-
In a bold new design, audiences will surround the actors onstage, intensifying the experience of the play. This is the first time that the Nuffield Theatre auditorium has been configured in this way and the staging will re-envisage the way theatre is experienced at Nuffield. A Number marks the start of Nuffield’s season of celebrating Science and Art, preceding the Fulcrum Festival in March. This period
CROSS FIGURE PUZZLE
LAST ISSUE’S COMPLETED CROSS FIGURE PUZZLE 34 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
tain America: The First Avenger, Seal Team Eight, OXI, Thunderbirds, Midsomer Murders, By Any Means and Minder.