Issue 5
In this Issue... A host of leisure pursuit oppor t unities The All Woman Show Win VIP weekend tickets to Wickham Festival
NET WORKING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNIT Y . . .
Includes a 4-course Dinner
Fri 30th May £35
Fri 20th June £35 Fri 4th July £35
Fri 1st August £39.95
Fri 12th September £39.95
WELCOME TO
Networking in your local community... MAGAZINE
W
NETWORKING IN YOUR COMMUNITY ... e hope everyone hasLOCAL had a good Easter. Congratulations to Chris Fay for providing the winning photo for our front page. He will receive a family ticket to Marwell as a prize.
We will be running another front cover competition this month with the chance to win VIP weekend tickets for Wickham Festival. Send in your pictures to contactus@ loopmagazine.net
The next Loop Magazine will be delivered in July
as a variety of local interest stories and advertisers.
Please send in your press releases and community news to contactus@loopmagazine.net
In this issue we have a All Woman Show feature as well
Continuing thanks to the community for their regular contributions to the magazine.
Send in your stories to us, 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. Send in your details to contactus@loopmagazine.net Take advantage of our great advertising rates. Call
01489
881885
or
contactus@
loopmagazine.net Pete Ralls, Editor w w w w
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Vocademy: a unique singing school Have you got a young person in your life who loves to sing?
of singing. All Vocademy teachers are CRB checked,
Vocademy is a unique singing school that helps children shine and become pitch perfect – but also helps them build selfesteem and confidence. Vocademy is offering FREE taster sessions for children to help introduce young
Portsmouth. With a BA Hons in Music from Chichester University where she specialised
fully trained and ready to welcome your
in both performance practice and music
children.
education, Bubsie has been a professional
Southampton singer-songwriter
singing teacher since graduating as a
Charley Macaulay runs the Southampton
Master of Music Performance in September
Vocademy.
2009. Bubsie also works as a session singer,
Charley, who won the Under-18 Live and
as well as performing with her own band and as half of an acoustic duo.
people to the joys of singing in a fun,
Unsigned national competition in 2009,
informal way - perfect if the little one in
has gone to record her first album, perform
your life is shy or nervous.
at some of Britain’s biggest festivals and
specific groups. To book your free taster
support stars from Will Young to Anastacia
session call 07582467032, visitwww.
– before she has even turned 20.
vocademy.co.uk, like Vocademy on
There’s no doh ray me at Vocademy. Students learn techniques to the songs of their favourite boy and girl bands and
She will run classes at the The Bar
Courses run for 10 weeks and in age
Facebook at
artists who are topping the iTunes charts.
Quarter, Leisure World, in West Quay Road,
www.facebook.
They end the term with fun gigs in front of
Southampton.
com/vocademy.
family and friends and every lesson is as
The Portsmouth school is run by Bubsie
singing or follow
much about fun and confidence building
Yates at the Old Blacksmith Studios, Unit
on Twitter
as it is about teaching the technical aspects
8, Admiral Park, Airport Service Road, in
vocademysinging
DISTRIBUTORS WANTED “Want to earn money and keep t?”
The Loop Magazine has an opportunity Distributors Wanted. We are looking for reliable, trustworthy distributors in the following areas Locks Heath and surrounding areas Hedge End and West End Fareham You will need to enjoy walking, be of a reasonable tness and able to deliver over one weekend every other month. You must be aged 13+ (no upper age limit)
Please telephone 01489 881 885 Email: contactus@loopmagazine.net With your name, age (if under 18) address and home telephone number
4 | The LOOP
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One step away from singing competition Grand Final! Regional final where she wowed the
He made £100 in just 20 minutes!!! He
judges to secure herself a place in the Area
also sang for charity at Christmas raising
finals. You can hear Amy’s own version of
£80 for breast cancer. A boy with a very
Miley Cyrus’ Wrecking Ball by following
big heart !! S Jay who sung live on Voice
the link https://www.youtube.com/
FM and has been asked to return and
watch?v=ef0qI0FwRBU Amy is currently
be interviewed in view to inspire other
working on an original song to sing at the
children. He is currently showing of his
Area Final on May the 10th In Fernham
vocal ability at some local Open mic
Hall.
nights in the area which he is thoroughly
Amy’s second success last month was
enjoying. S Jay has a very versatile voice,
to discover that she had also impressed
singing many genre of songs. He loves the
the Mayflower Creative Team as she was
big powerful songs where he can show off
also offered a place in the cast of “five of
his vocal ability with the wow factor.
the Best”. The show will be performed on After impressing the judges at the Regional Finals, Amy Marsden and S Jay are now just one good performance away from singing at the TeenStar Singing Competition 2014 Grand Final to be performed at one of the greatest live music venues in the world. TeenStar is an exciting national talent competition which searches for the UK’s best teen and pre-teen singers/ singersongwriters. Amy Marsden and S Jay have so far beaten over 7500 contestants and sung themselves into the last 500. TeenStar is brought to you by Future Music, the company behind the discovery of artists such as Jacob Banks, Warner Music’s Birdy, Columbia Record’s Lucy Spraggan, and Union J’s Jaymi Hensley and Jahmene Douglas, both of which are now signed to Sony Music, Local Youngster Amy Marsden enjoyed triple success with her passion of singing and Musical Theatre. Amy’s love of musical theatre and singing meant she was forced to make a hard choice of performing at the Teenstar Competition or attending a call back audition for a chance of a place in the cast of the Mayflower Theatres Summer Youth Project “Five of the Best”. Luckily for Amy, Teenstar were very accommodating and allowed her to move to the Brighton
For more information go to the website
7th 8th 9th August. This is the second year
www.teenstarcompetition.co.uk, or
that Amy has been involved a production
better still come down and support
by the Mayflower as she was involved in
your local talent performing! You can
“Bugsy Malone” The Summer Youth Project
purchase tickets from the website www.
in 2013 which was a massive success.
teenstarcompetition.co.uk, as well as on
To complete Amy Marsden’s hat trick, she was also invited as one of just 14
the door subject to availability or from S jay and Amy
Vocademy Singing Students throughout the country to take part on a very exciting project which has been kept top secret for the last couple of months. In April she was whisked off to Brighton to film and record a charity. The song they have recorded is still being kept under wraps until launch date at the end of the summer. Amy’s confidence has come on leaps and bounds since becoming a Vocademy Singing Student last year. They have been so supportive to Amy during the Teenstar competition we can’t thank enough. Last years Teenstar Area Finalist S Jay , the only boy in his age group¸ narrowly missed out on a place in by just one wildcard! He returns this year with passion and plans to sing his way right through to the Grand Finals. S Jay has been busy since the Regional Finals with a Sports Relief event that took place at the Hedge End Sainsbury’s and Marks and Spencers stores. S Jay brought the stores to a stand still with his jaw dropping performance.
contactus@loopmagazine.net
The LOOP | 5
Part-time stylists wanted Mr Menz are now looking for experienced part-time stylists. Applicants must have at least two years hairdressing experience, great customer care skills and a sense of humour! Days can be flexible.
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‘Know your blood pressure’ Stroke Awareness Day this year was on 5 April so, just to be different, Hamble Valley Rotary have, with the kind permission of Hedge End Retail Park, organised to hold a ‘Know your Blood Pressure’ event at the entrance to Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer in Hedge End on Saturday 31 May.
and play area for the little ones
It may be a strange thing to do on your way to do a food shop
FREE LOLLY POPS FOR GOOD BOYS FULLY AIR CONDITIONED SALON
in Sainsbury’s or to buy some knickers in M&S (other products are
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
available - Ed) but stroke affects people of all ages and fitness levels and a blood pressure check is always a good idea. It will cost you nothing and prevention is always better than cure. One third of strokes occur in people under the age of 65.If you are interested in volunteering or would like to mention a local need please get in touch through their website www.hamblevalleyrotary.co.uk
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6 | The LOOP
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contactus@l oopmagazine.net The LOOP | 11
Ukulele Orchestra and ‘The Voice’ Finalist for Wickham Festival Dhol Foundation who performed to one
instruments, the ukulele. They have just
of the biggest global TV audiences of all
completed a sell-out UK Tour and have
time when providing the drumming and
performed in major concert venues across
percussion for Kate Bush’s hit ‘Running Up
the globe.
That Hill’ at the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics. The Dhol Foundation are led by world-
A finalist from TV’s ‘The Voice’ and a band of musicians who performed at the London 2012 Olympics closing ceremony are among the latest artists confirmed for this year’s Wickham Festival being held on the outskirts of the attractive Hampshire village over the weekend of August 13th17th. Sally Barker was one of the three finalists in this year’s ‘The Voice’ programme on TV. Her singing so impressed her mentor Sir
The Wickham Festival features four days of top-quality music on three stages plus a variety of other entertainment including
renowned Dhol drummer and percussionist
puppet theatre, storytelling, a solar-
Johnny Kalsi. They have performed for the
powered cinema, digital funfair, childrens
Queen and are favourites at the WOMAD
entertainers and much more. There’s a
World Music Festivals with their dynamic
crafts fayre, exotic foods fayre, real ales
drumming, whirling arms and thunderous
festival and late night Festival Club. The
beats.
5000 capacity Festival is widely regarded as
Headlining the opening night of the
one of the safest and friendliest festivals in
Wickham Festival will be The Ukulele
the UK having not had a single crime of any
Orchestra of Great Britain. Recently seen
kind last year.
on TV’s Ant & Dec Show where they
Day and weekend tickets are now
performed with Robbie Williams, the
onsale via the Festival website www.
band mix madcap humour with masterful
wickhamfestival.co.uk or by phone from
musicianship on that much-maligned of
the Box Office on 023 8071 1818.
Tom Jones that she was his personal choice to be one of the final three contestants. Since finishing joint 2nd on the 5th April programme she has released a version of Olly Murs’ song ‘Dear Darlin’ which has topped the iTunes chart. She will be appearing at Wickham with her band The Poozies on Saturday 16th August, supporting Steve Earle & The Dukes from North America. Also just confirmed for Wickham and appearing on the Friday night will be The
12 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
An Alternative way to shop At the Chesapeake Mill you will find a huge variety of traditional and vintage lifestyle accessories, a wonderful range of unique and hard to find products with timeless appeal for the home, garden and the special people in your life. The Mill provides an alternative way to shop. You can browse a selection of the best interior ideas and gifts to suit every taste and budget. Your visit is sure to prove surprising and inspirational and the best retail therapy you will ever have. Take a break and treat yourself in the Mill’s fabulous tea rooms. There you will always find light snacks, cooked food and the Mill’s famous high teas.
Ropelet - let the rope free Ropelets are bright, funky rope bracelets, for those of you looking for something a little different. Handmade from excellent quality, colourful marine / climbing rope with magnetic clasp. They appeal to a wide range of people including sports, sailing and climbing enthusiasts. Each Ropelet is made to order from a wide range of rope in a variety of thicknesses from 3mm to 8mm, available in single / double/ treble wrap with choice of magnetic clasp. Beautifully presented in gift tins make them ideal presents. Ranging from £2.50 + postage, available online at www.ropelet. co.uk. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+1.
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contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 13
A younger generation of Freemasons
The Loop meets with the Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Freemasons I meet Michael Wilks in the masonic lodge
administrative divisions – in the
chamber of the Fareham Masonic Hall,
Country. Each Province has a number
He describes how during the Second
a grand looking room bedecked with
of Masonic Halls and Lodges. Michael
World War, instead of Freemasons
banners and certificates that showcase
Wilks is the Provincial Grand Master
leaving the organisation for fear of
the lodge’s history. Michael is very
(PGM) of Hampshire and Isle of Wight,
being persecuted in the event of Nazi
candid, choosing to shake off the popular
one of the largest Provinces with 250
occupation, they became secretive about
image of secrecy with which Freemasonry
Lodges including 4 University Scheme
their membership to protect themselves
is often viewed. He regularly tweets
Lodges (USL) situated in Portsmouth,
and the organisation. He stresses that
to Masons and non-Masons alike as a
Southampton, Basingstoke and
objectives have now changed and it is
way to demonstrate the openness and
Winchester.
important to be open and transparent so that the community understands the role
transparency of the organisation. The Province of Hampshire and Isle of
of a Freemason.
“Some Masons don’t like to use Facebook
Wight is divided into six areas, each with
or Twitter but I believe this is an ideal
their own Assistant Provincial Grand
When I ask about the role of Freemasonry
medium for us to reach out to the public
Master. He encourages all of them to use
today he tells me that it is based around
and demonstrate that as Freemasons
social media as a tool to reach out to the
improving moral character and fibre,
we should be open and proud about our
community, promote social and charity
something that benefits not only the
membership and all that we do.”
events and dispel many of the myths with
individual, but his family, friends and
There are 47 Masonic Provinces –
which Freemasonry is often tarred.
society as a whole. “A good Freemason
14 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
will demonstrate honesty, integrity and
says that this is assured because the
camaraderie at dinner.”
fair dealing in life and actions in his day
friendship engendered amongst young
Coming up to 40 years in the craft in
to day life. There is a lot of selfishness
men joining the Craft together will also
2015: the Loop talks to Michael Wilks, the
and dishonesty in the world today, and
encourage them to invite other friends to
Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire
Freemasonry teaches us to be unselfish.
become Freemasons.
and IOW
Michael tells me that he originally
Facebook:
became a Freemason to follow in the
http://www.facebook.com/
Michael describes how interactions
footsteps of his father, whom he had the
HampshireMasons
between younger men and more
utmost respect for. “When my wife and
Web Site:
experienced Freemasons can be
I moved to Hampshire and settled here
www.hampshirefreemasonry.com
highly beneficial to both. He says it
I made enquiries and saw how much
Youtube:
encourages men to work together and
good could be achieved and I wanted to
https://www.youtube.com/
learn from each other. There are 57
be part of it. I joined a lodge in Fareham
watch?v=P8nlQuvohI8
University Scheme Lodges throughout
in 1975 and I have a great fondness for
Twitter:
the country as part of a scheme which
the ceremony and thought provoking
https://twitter.com/HantsMason
was established in 2005 with the aim of
ritual – whether taking part or sitting
bringing younger men into Freemasonry.
on the side-lines. I especially enjoy the
Freemasonry is a force for good and exists to benefit society as a whole.”
In his role as Provincial Grand Master he is able to authorise a dispensation to men below the age of 21, thus allowing even younger individuals of ages 18 and upwards to become Freemasons. Candidates joing University Scheme Lodges are often initiated in groups, which he claims generates a special bond between candidates as they join together. I ask Michael why he thinks the USL’s appeal to students. He says that university students – like many young men who join the Craft – enjoy aspects of learning, formality and discipline within the lodge room, and afterwards the camaraderie, fellowship and friendship built at the festive board – a fun and enjoyable dinner after the meeting has ceased in the lodge room. The Provincial Grand Master mentions a survey conducted, which speculated on whether to reduce the formalities in the lodge room. Interestingly the survey found that the younger Lodge members enjoyed and appreciated the formality as a contrast to the fun of dinner afterwards. As to the future of USLs: Michael
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 15
We are really glad that we advertised with Loop Magazine.
Flowers by Joanne
We had lots of enquiries from our ad and the discount voucher we included got a great reception from readers. We will definitely be advertising again.
Joanne is a freelance florist/floral designer at Hollygrove Farm The Loop Magazine has been very active and productive in promoting our new branch in Fareham.
shop in Upper Northam Drive, Hedge End. She offers:
They are an outstanding advertising portal and we have definitely seen the benefits.
• Bouquets, Aqua pack water Bouquets, Arrangements, Basket
• Local, National and International Deliveries. Arrangements,Gifts, Balloons, Gift Baskets, Plants and Pots. • Funeral Tributes, 2d Shapes, 3d Designs and Bespoke Wedding
www.ranchosteakhousefareham.co.uk
Flowers.Glass Hire, Royal Mail Post box and Sweetcart Hire,
www.ranchosteakhouse.co.uk
• Event Decoration and Corporate Contracts. Trained at Eastleigh College Joanne has gained qualifications in both Traditional and Contemporary floral designs. She has a Level 2 C&G National Certificate in Floral Design, a Level 2 National Certificate in Floristry, an Ncfe Level 2 Certificate in Contemporary Floral design, an Ncfe Level 2 Certificate in Extended Techniques in Contemporary Design and a level 3
Sales Executive
National Certificate in Floristry. A college competition winner for two years running, Joanne has
Part time or Full time
a real passion for arranging flowers and creating clients’ visions.
The Loop Magazine has an opportunity for a conscientious Sales Executive.
at Hollygrove Farm shop and the exciting launch of Flowers by
The beginning of May sees Joanne celebrating her first birthday Joanne 2 in Chandlers Ford, in association with Wessex Funeral Services.
You need to be self-motivated, hardworking o and offer high quality customer care. We will pay a generous salary and commission scheme to the successful executive
Send your C.V to Sarah Hopley at contactus@loopmagazine.net
20% DISCOUNT VOUCHER Strictly for owers by Joanne.
Please call : 02380471006 Expires 30th May 2014.
Flowers by Joanne
www.facebook.com/flowersbyjoanne www.flowersbyjoanneonline.co.uk
16 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
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SUMMER IS HERE
Summer is here at last What a pleasing sight A trip to the seaside An angler’s line is heavy, now he has a bite
I just thought I’d email you to let you know that I’ve had a fantastic response to my adverts in the first couple of issues of ‘The Loop’!
Children’s laughter all around Sitting on the beach A little boy making castles in the sand That golden ball in the sky, totally out of reach
Financially, I’ve had well over 1000% return on my
A swimming costume wrapped in a towel Unfolding a brightly coloured deckchair Sunglasses protecting her eyes Rubbing in sun lotion as her skin is so fair
Yours, Jim Gildea
investment which in itself is excellent, but I’d go as far as to say ‘The Loop’ magazine can take a lot of the credit for the most successful start of the year I’ve ever had! Many thanks to all at ‘The Loop’ magazine. I and all at Rubbish Clearance and Waste Removal are looking forward to the next edition coming to print!
Summer is a welcome sight Never want it to end The seaside is the place to be Enjoy an ice cream with a friend BY LINDA HANNEY
“Is there anyone to take care of us?” Lizzy (above) and Cokey (below) are sadly victims of cruelty and neglect. They have been rescued and are now in care where they are responding well to love and attention. Both are between 8-10 years old , have sweet characters and would appreciate a future with owners who will give them the love and security they rightly deserve. If you have the patience for them, considering their unhappy past, in a safe area with a garden for them once they are settled, and are interested in adopting these two cats contact 023 8043 5855.
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Twitter.com @Loopmagazine1
Welcome to the LOOP
Our magazine boasts sophistication and is modern and upbeat, featuring a wealth of local news and advertising, as well as leisure pursuit opportunities in your area.
To Advertise in the LOOP Magazine Contact us on: Telephone 01489 881 885 Email: contactus@loopmagazine.net www.loopmagazine.net We have a loyal team of experienced distributors and take pride in delivering through 39,000 letterboxes, deli to homes and businesses.
Please mention
When responding to these adverts MAGAZINE NETWORKING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY ... 18 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
WWW.CULTUREHAMPSHIRE.COM
For things to do and places to visit in Hampshire this website is perfect for you.
A not for profit community interest company, Culture Hampshire aims to build and grow awareness of the abundance of innovative and inspirational Cultural experiences available for people living in and visiting Hampshire.
And if you’re looking to commission a local artist to paint you a portrait, an entertainer for your children’s party, or a wedding photographer to capture your big day, all the local contacts you need are in the Culture People directory.
As a local creative such as an artist, graphic designer, web developer, musician or jewellery maker you can create a profile within the Culture People pages to demonstrate your work and highlight your availability for commissions.
Culture Hampshire is a local directory website of Cultural and Creative People, Places and Events in Hampshire.
If you’re a member of the public you can search in Culture Places for great recommendations on where to visit, find great entertainment or learn a new skill. And if you want to find out what’s going on culturally, want get involved in a creative workshop or look for ways to entertain the family, our Get Culture events calendar is your one stop shop for all of the above in Hampshire. hello@culturehampshire.com
Local History
The Strawberry Coast
Dan Boylan describes South Hampshire’s strawberry growing heritage For over 100 years, the lands between
but was well suited to the shallow rooted
Fareham, Botley and Warsash were well
strawberry plants. The soils were ideal
first began via the turnpikes and in the
known across England as the ‘strawberry
for strawberries, well-drained and soon
late 1860s, when the railways arrived
coast’.
warmed in early spring sunshine.
arrangements were made to transport the
Strawberry growing along the Hamble
Between May and late July the region
The booming strawberry industry
fruit across the country on trains fondly named ‘The strawberry specials’.
supplied Covent Garden, the Royal Palaces
blossomed from the 1866 Enclosure Acts
and the top London Hotels with the
which permitted common land to be
At the height of the strawberry growing
earliest, juiciest, tastiest strawberries in
divided into dozens of small plots. The
era, it wasn’t difficult to obtain credit from
the land. Before the days of refrigeration,
new plot owners needed a quick cash
local financiers to purchase land and set
glasshouses and foreign imports, when
crop that required little investment or
up as a grower: “I’ll pay you back in the
foodstuff was governed by the weather
expertise. It was the combination of the
picking.” was the customary term (still
and seasons, strawberries (and most other
gravely soils added to the mild climate due
heard in these parts). A family with four
fruits) were a seasonal crop. Then the early
to its closeness to the Solent and Hamble
to six acres could expect some degree of
strawberries arrived and no summer picnic
which was spared the spring frosts and
success and a good income even in their
or garden party was complete without
created ideal conditions for early cropping
first years of operation. Once established
delicious strawberries and the British
strawberries. The land was inexpensive
they would build a modest cottage beside
public loved them.
and strawberry cultivation didn’t require
the homemade shed which they had used
expensive equipment or any great
to store their tools and baskets. When
introduced as a commercial crop into
expertise. The harvest was a highly labour
the harvest began, inexpensive, itinerant,
the area by the Carpenter-Gamier family
intensive process and provided work for
seasonal labour arrived for the “bedding-
of Rookesbury Park, Wickham. In the
both young and old. Such was the near
down” and the picking. It was usually
mid 1800’s they persuaded the tenant
guaranteed output of these cropping fields
provided by the gypsy families who often
smallholders at Hundred Acres to begin
that many agricultural workers left their
arrived, year after year, in their horse-
cultivation of the strawberry. The thin,
employer and with little financial backing
drawn caravans in early summer (generally
stony soils around the Hamble was
or experience acquired land to grow
after Wickham Fair Day, May 21st).
unsuitable for the plough and agriculture
strawberries.
Strawberries are said to have been
20 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
With the picking well under way,
came the transportation to the railway.
strawberries picked on Ravenscroft Farm in
foreign producers who had longer
Many smallholders had a small, two
Bursledon each year was sent to a grateful
growing seasons and lower wage bills
wheeled donkey cart, others had large,
H.M Queen Mother.
and from the new supermarkets who
horse drawn, four wheeled flatbeds.
The Roads to Swanwick Station with its
demanded uniform, perfectly shaped
Much arranging and rearranging of
extended platform were often gridlocked
fruits. Imported berries began to arrive
transportation was required, with many
with long lines of carts waiting to load
earlier in the year and cost half the price.
favours called in, to deliver the thousands
baskets of strawberries into the specially
Many local growers ceased trading,
of baskets to the stations. Even in those
adapted railway carriages. Boys were
and swathes of huge strawberry fields
far back days, it was a proud boast of
paid 1d (2p) an hour to carefully stack
were transformed into modern housing
the growers that the fresh fruit could be
the baskets onto the carriage shelves.
developments. There are still subtle
picked, sorted, transported to the railway,
100,000 baskets of strawberries could be
reminders of the local strawberry industry,
and entrained onwards to Covent Garden
transported to London every day. During
there are streets named Strawberry Field
and served in the dining rooms of London,
the strawberry harvest, May to mid July,
& Strawberry Hill; The Berry Theatre and
in a matter of hours. Picking would begin
it was one of the busiest stations in the
The Talisman & Sir Joseph Paxton pubs are
at first light, (4.30am) and the fruit would
country. The fruit was transported in
named after species of strawberry plant.
be served in London hotels for afternoon
baskets called ‘Chips’, which were cheap
tea twelve hours later.
and produced in huge quantities, (cheap
required only a modest investment,
as chips). They were non returnable
inexpensive equipment, seasonal workers
on Sundays) were handed four three-
baskets made from thin strips of wood
at harvest-time and the means to transport
pound baskets to fill. They would pick over
woven into a rectangular shape and
the fruit to the railways. The return?
20,000 berries every day, rain or shine.
stapled together. They were made by local
Sufficient income to keep a family well
At the height of the strawberry coast’s
women at the Swanwick Basket Company.
housed and fed through the year. There
productivity, there were 1,500 acres of
A jam factory was built on Locks Heath
are many who would like to see the return
strawberry fields in this area. It was a
Road in the 1880’s, to turn inferior end-of-
of the English strawberry, an early summer
highly successful self funded and free
season fruit into jam. The three cottages
fruit at its very best.
standing industry which created numerous
next door became the public house which
Fresh, juicy, succulent strawberries are
supporting companies and concerns,
was named the ‘Joseph Paxton’. a variety of
on sale now, not from the other side of the
hundreds of jobs for all members of the
strawberry popular at that time.
world but right here, on your doorstep. Go
Every day pickers (an hour off for Church
and pick up a punnet, or two!
community and year after year, brought wealth and prosperity to the region. Traditionally, the first basket of
This was a superb ‘mini’ industry. It
In the late 1960s the South’s strawberry fields began a struggle to survive against
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 21
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Science Museum announces UK tour of The Energy Show
English National Opera and the V&A, The Energy Show boasts a creative team who have collectively worked nationally and internationally on more than 500 shows, including productions on the West End and Broadway. Their awards include a Tony Award, a Village Voice OBIE and a Theatregoers’ Choice Award. Full cast and crew details can be found under Notes to Editors. Science Museum Live - The Energy Show; credit Benjamin Ealovega, Science Museum Anthony Richards, Manager of Learning Programmes at the Science Museum, says “We are delighted to announce the return of The Energy Show. Audiences in 2013 agreed that its mixture of eye-popping demonstrations and imaginative characters both excited and educated young viewers. The Science Museum is pleased to be able to expand its reach to new audiences.” Martin Lamb, Director, says “The Energy Show is a dynamic and
Recognised by reviewers in 2013 as a ‘fantastic and brilliant must-see’, audiences will again have the opportunity to join futuristic science students Annabella and Phil as they race against time to prove their knowledge of energy through a series of live experiments. Featuring a virtual assistant named i-nstein and a steampunk workshop full of gadgets and chemicals, Annabella and Phil use liquid nitrogen, hydrogen rockets and electricity to create a dangerously exciting experience. The Energy Show is a unique theatrical experience whose awardwinning creative talent will build on the success of its original run to deliver a distinctive and universally appealing performance. Directed and co-written by Martin Lamb, who has worked with
Fareham Cancer Research to host Coffee Morning
fresh way for young people to engage with science, weaving together the best elements of a traditional live science show with the storytelling features of family theatre. Audiences will enjoy an engaging experience, no matter their background in science.” The Energy Show is suitable for all ages from 7+ years and is a must-see for Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 students. The trailer is available on the Science Museum’s You Tube channel. For a full list of tour dates visit http://www.sciencemuseum.org. uk/visitmuseum/Plan_your_visit/theatre_shows/the_energy_ show/energy_show_tour.aspx To book tickets please call 0870 870 4868 or visit www. sciencemuseum.org.uk/energyshow For school bookings please call 02079424777.
Fareham Writers
Have you ever fancied yourself as a writer? Ever thought ‘I could
Fareham Cancer Research (CRUK) local Committee
have written the item better than that?’ or, ‘I’ve got this great
are holding a coffee morning on Wednesday 21 May in the
idea for a book............................!’
Methodist Church Hall on King’s Road. The fundraiser, which will run from 10.30 am to 12 noon, will feature stalls containing cakes, books and bric-a-brac.
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
Tickets cost just £1 and include coffee and biscuits. They are available either in advance (from Rosemary): 01329 311012 or on the door.
Loop staff member to take on fire walk challenge Production whizz-kid Blake Hopley will take part in a sponsored charity fire walk on 19 July at the Horse and Jockey in Curbridge. Unite and Ignite, the organisation hosting the event, hope to raise £40,000 for a state of the art playroom for young children and babies with cancer. To sponsor Blake email contactus@loopmagazine.net
experienced writers and
Save up to 70% on Inkjet Cartridges
novices, young and old, bard or enthusiastic wannabee. We meet locally every month in the afternoon to read our work and provide critique and support for others. Look at our
And many more!
FREE Delivery www.inkking.co.uk 01489 877818
website www.farehamwriters. co.uk to see what we do. You could be the next J.K. Rowling!
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 23
Celebrate a super salad leaf at the Watercress Festival Visit Alresford, the UK’s
ambition is to make people go ‘yum’. Cooking is about feeding
‘Capital of Watercress’
people and making them happy.”
on Sunday 18 May as the town plays host to the
The principal sponsor of the Festival, the Watercress Alliance (made up of the UK’s leading watercress farmers Alresford Salads,
annual Watercress Festival Vitacress Salads and The Watercress Company) will have experts on hand to talk about the history, health benefits and the growing and with a variety of family attractions and mouthwatering watercress treats. The day kicks off at 10am with live music and a raft
harvesting of this ancient crop. For the kids there’s the chance to investigate the 40 or more insect species which live in or by the watercress beds by pond dipping in the critter pool on the Alliance stand, while the more industrious
of artisanal food and craft stalls selling their wares. At 10.30am
amongst them can learn the old art of bunching watercress using
the first watercress of the British season arrives, freshly cut from a
traditional farm trollies.
nearby watercress farm and brought into Alresford on a traditional
The Watercress Festival is free to attend with the only charge being
horse and cart, followed by a procession of morris dancers,
the car park in Alresford or at the Park and Ride in Ropley where
musicians and school children, all in carnival mood as they parade
visitors can start their day in old fashioned style by hopping on the
through the town.
Watercress Line steam train to the Festival..
The fun-filled day will include the World Watercress Eating Championships, food stalls selling local artisanal produce, live
The Watercress Festival marks the start of National Watercress Week which runs from 18 May – 24 May 2014 and celebrates all things
music, street and children’s entertainment, and rides on the famous great about the little leaf with a peppery bite, so what better way to spend your Sunday than with your family and friends in the ‘capital’ Watercress Line steam train. Cookery demonstrations by local award winning chefs, Andy
of watercress.
MacKenzie of Lainston House, James Durrant, Chef Proprietor of
For more info visit www.watercress.co.uk/festival or for directions
the Plough Inn Longparish and Robert Quehan, Head Chef of the
and parking information, visit www.watercressfestival.org
Holiday Inn in Winchester, will take place. Lucas says: “My only
Let the kids go
OTT IOW on the
24 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
Live music nights at the Horse & Jockey
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. May: Sun 4 - Blues @ Curbridge Creek (Jam Night), Fri 9 - The Lovely Giraffes (rock), Sat 17 - Blackwater Roll (blues), Thur 22 - Morris Dancing & Music, Fri 23 - The Geckos, Fri 30 - This Way Up (blues). June: Sun 1 - Blues @ Curbridge Creek, Sat 7 - Little Black Dress, Sat 14 - 60s Soul, Ska & Motown (all on vinyl), Fri 21 The Undecided (rock), Fri 27 - Doctor Blu (blues). 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
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
The Horse & Jockey
CURBRIDGE
• Free Wi-Fi • Live Music • Specials Boards • All Ingredients Fresh & Locally Sourced Where Possible • Gluten Free Options Available Including Beer • 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 meet on the third Thursday of the month at 1.45pm at the Community Centre. Visitors and new members welcome.
Burridge & Park Gate
Hedge End 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
meet on the first Tuesday of the month at St Margaret Mary church Hall, Park Gate at 7.15pm. Visitors and new members welcome.
meet on the third Wednesday of each month in the Memorial Hall on Locks Heath Park Road, starting at 7pm.
Whiteley Wags meet on the second Thursday of each month at 7.30pm at Whiteley Primary School. Next meeting Thursday 13th February.
Titchfield meet on the 4th
Monday of the month starting at 7.30 pm and finishing about 9.30 pm in the Parish Rooms, Titchfield. Visitors are always very welcome.
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 25
FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES N e w Ta x Ye a r – n e w o p p o r t u n i t i e s
No one likes preparing their tax return but there are a number of very good reasons why tax payers should plan to prepare and submit their tax returns as soon as possible.
expense of Christmas and New Year. PAYE coding Notices Some employees do not appreciate that their PAYE coding notice is prepared from figures gleaned by HM Revenue & Customs from submissions from themselves and employers in earlier tax years. This can result in employees suffering wage deductions based on income that they are no longer receiving. The reverse is that employees are not having the correct tax deducted from their wages and so are unknowingly
The Enquiry Window The most important reason is that HM Revenue & Customs have twelve creating tax liabilities for the future. months from the date of submission of the tax return to open an enquiry Early submission of the tax return will result in a more accurate PAYE coding into it. notice being used against their earnings. Prompt submission of the tax return means that the tax return can be Lost documents considered closed earlier. It is a fact of life that the any approaching deadline will result in the This is especially important if the tax return contains estimated or disappearance of vital information. contentious entries. Early submission provides the tax payer with time to deal with any challenges made to the figures and importantly pay the It is no different with tax returns. The threat of the 31 January deadline correct amount of tax by the deadline and avoid late payment penalties. means that the essential P60 or P11D document’s that were tidied away before Christmas will not be able to be found. Tax repayments If you have overpaid income tax the tax repayment claim will be Also, financial institutions no longer automatically issue interest tax actioned quickly. Currently, tax returns are trickling into HM Revenue & certificates. These often have to be requested and do take time to prepare. Customs and therefore they have less to deal with and claims get dealt Banks will charge for requesting duplicates, if the originals are lost with promptly. Prompt attention to tax return documents does not guarantee that documents will never get lost but while you are looking for them you can Payments on account If you are unfortunate enough to have to make tax payments on relax in the knowledge that the tax return has been submitted and the account, preparing the tax return earlier means that that the payments potential £1,300 penalty avoided. on account can be based on actual figures as opposed to the previous Your Accountant and tax adviser tax years tax liability. If you use a professional adviser they will be better placed to provide you If income levels have gone down the payment on account due by 31 with a decent level of service and take time to discuss the tax return with July, can sometimes be reduced. you. Budgeting
Summer Holidays
Preparing the tax return promptly enables taxpayers to budget on how they are going to pay the tax liability. For instance, submitting a tax return in May means that there are eight months to prepare for the payment due by 31 January.
If you are able to prepare and submit the tax return before August you will be able to enjoy your Summer holiday knowing that there is one less thing
Especially important as the tax deadline comes immediately after the
to worry about upon your return. If you need help or advice on preparing and submitting your tax return Moore McCusker can be contacted on moore@mooretax.co.uk or by calling 01489 247047.
Are you paying too much? To pay the right amount of tax
To receive the correct tax advice At the right level of professional fee Contact
Specialists in all areas of taxation
www.mooretax.co.uk advice@mooretax.co.uk
Tel: 01489 247047 Please mention
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26 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
for more details please contact
- Year End Accounts Paul Shepherd VAT - Payroll - Book-Keeping elan.bookkeeping@aol.co.uk Tel: 01489 589140 competitive rates Mobile: 07849874436
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contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 27
SPACE TIMES World’s first commercial spaceline
After successful tests on their new liquid
“NewtonTwo” respectively.
manufacturers and operators to buy a
rocket engines in January Virgin Galactic,
“We are proud of the great progress our
the world’s first commercial spaceline, has
propulsion team has made in reaching these
The new rocket engines were designed
moved one step closer to flying tourists into
milestones,” said Virgin Galactic CEO George
and assembled in-house by Virgin Galactic
space.
Whitesides. “Combined with parallel progress
engineers and technicians, and mark the
made by the company in advanced tank
first firings of engines designed and built by
Virgin Galactic hot-fired both a 3,500 lbf
and avionics technology, we are now well
the privately-funded company, owned by
thrust rocket engine and a 47,500 lbf thrust
on our way to providing customers with the
Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group and Abu
rocket engine, called the “NewtonOne” and
lowest cost opportunity for small satellite
Dhabi’s aabar Investments PJS.
As part of a rapid development program,
dedicated ride to space.”
UKSEDS 2014 Conference Dr Rochelle Velho (UKSBA executive)
team in space. The aim of this session was
investigators interested in space careers and
The 2014 UKSEDs conference was a 2
to inform the student body about the UK
how that would link into ELIPS in the future.
day event that provided a plethora of
Space Environments Association (UKSEA);
It is evident that in the years to come, the
opportunities for young investigators
a multi-disciplinary space community. The
zeroG environment will continue to irk our
with a passion for aerospace research and
main objectives of the UKSEA include crowd
curiosity and provide many solutions to
development.
sourcing of solutions, fostering collaborative
terrestrial problems. Conferences such as
UK space environments projects and access to
UKSEDs 2014 provide an invaluable forum for
space careers through to a live lecture by Maj.
facilities for both professionals and students.
current and future problem-solvers to share
Tim Peake (ESA astronaut).
These goals will enable more teams to submit
ideas about UK Space R&D. Thereby ensuring
Andrew Winnard (UKSBA executive) and I
successful ELIPS proposals and facilitate UK
that the UK will continue to play an important
co-led a session about the multi-disciplinary
ELIPS participation. The second half of our
role in international space science.
The sessions ranged from advice about
session focused on career advice for young
28 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
SPACE BIOMEDICINE IN THE UK • Created for educational, research and career opportunities for students and professionals of the UK interested in space life and space medical sciences. • Promotes UK involvement in human space flight as a means of enhancing and strengthening the academic, medical, industrial and economic foundations of the UK.
UKSBA Aims
The purpose of the association is to advance the research and conduct of space life and medical sciences and related sciences in the UK with the aim of: 1. Stimulating investigation and study. 2. Disseminating pertinent knowledge and information. 3. Establishing and maintaining cooperation between the physiological, medical and other science disciplines concerned with space biomedicine. To join the UK Space Biomedicine Association visit www.uksba.org
• Represents organisations in the UK that are involved in the field of space biomedicine or related activities. • Over 20 academic, industrial and space establishments. • Broad scope of activities e.g. medicine, physiology, psychology, pharmacy. • Committed to improving communication, coordination and collaboration in this and related fields, across the UK. • With the support of the UK Space Agency and its core institutions, King’s College London and UCL, UKSBC will develop a UK space biomedicine research strategy to support the growth of the UK Space Industry and improvements in terrestrial healthcare.
Courtesy of Wyle
Courtesy of ESA
Courtesy of MEDES
The field of space biomedicine is but one element of the growing domain of Space Environments research and development in the UK.
Courtesy of ES
Courtesy of Wyle
GeoFind contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 29 Consultancy
Sea Stories
A lifetime shared with the Queen Mary
David Main recounts a life of interest and experience with the ship My interest in ships started at a very early
and on 25 July 1943 she carried 16,683
age as I was brought up in Portsmouth
troops and crew on board.
during the Second World War.
It took almost 25 years for the two ships,
red and black illuminated funnels. On completion of seven years training as an engineer I considered that a great
the Queen Mary and the Queen Elizabeth
deal of the training focused on the
to watch many Royal Navy ships entering
to start the weekly service to New York
theoretical side and I considered that
or leaving the dockyard. We also went onto
which was planned in 1924 due to the
I needed to gain experience on the
the beach at Southsea where we could see
delay caused by the 2nd World War.
practical side by operating real machinery.
I was taken down to the harbour entrance
When this weekly service started the two
the Isle of Wight across the strip of water
I decided to join the Merchant Navy and
between the mainland and the Island
ships became a familiar sight at lunchtime
applied to what was considered the most
known as the Solent. It was here that my
on a Thursday (as sailing time from
prestigious company at that time, Cunard.
association with the Queen Mary began.
Southampton was always at midday).
I was interviewed and accepted and joined
I started my engineering career as an
the Company in 1959 as junior engineer.
ship that passed through the Solent from
engine fitter apprentice in Portsmouth
I acted as standby engineer on three
Southampton on its way to New York, they
Dockyard in 1952 for 5 years and on
separate ships - the Mauretania, Saxonia
told me how the wash from the ship would
completion of that I transferred to the
and Caronia - but did not sail on any as all
come ashore a short while after the ship
Central Electricity Authority as a Technical
the crew turned up by sailing time.
had passed .
Staff Trainee at the new Marchwood
My parents told me of this very large
I was then allocated a ship and that ship
Power Station near Southampton
was the one that had interested me for
sighting of this great ship: it was the first
for another two years, hoping on
a great part of my life, the Queen Mary.
sailing from Southampton to New York
completion to become an Operational
I was put on the 12 to 4 watch which is
after the 2nd World War and she was taking
Shift Engineer in that Power Station.
midday to 4pm and midnight to 4am for
American soldiers back home. The ship at
The Control Room for this Power Station
the whole voyage from Southampton to
that time was still in her grey wartime paint
overlooked Southampton Water and every
New York and return.
and known as the “Grey Ghost�.
Monday evening we could see the Queen
It was in 1946 when I had my first
It was during the War that she could carry a whole Brigade of troops on one crossing
The machinery spaces of the ship
Mary and the Queen Elizabeth arriving
consisted of two main engine rooms, the
back from New York with their distinctive
forward and after engine rooms , each
30 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
engine room contained two main steam
both the forward and after engine
a marvellous reception by all the staff
turbine drive engines driving two propeller
rooms operating the two main drive
(crew) on the ship. I noticed that the
shafts and propellers. The forward engine
engines and adjusting the rotational
ship was running tours to various parts
room driving the two outboard propellers
speed of the propeller shaft to the
of the ship, but the engine room was
and the after engine room driving the two
instructions received from the Bridge.
a self guided tour, and most visitors
inboard propellers, each propeller shaft
I was then promoted to take control of
to that part did not understand what
being 200 feet in length and the driving
number 5 main boiler room which had six
they were looking at. I offered my
power in each shaft being 40,000 horse
large water tube boilers each with seven
services to give tours and lectures in
power giving a total power of 160,000hp.
oil burners and producing steam for the
the engine room on how the engines
My first job was to work in the Propeller
main engines in the after engine room.
worked and I was given the opportunity
Shaft Tunnel, the absolute end of the ship
The temperature in this boiler room was
in 1998 for two months as a trial run.
and about 30 feet below the water line. My
almost unbearable.
At the end of that period I was wined and
job was to look after 40 Plumber Blocks
After three years with Cunard I left and
dined with all the department Managers
(Main Bearings) for the propeller shafts,
returned to Marchwood Power Station
who suggested I moved out to California
I also had the fire protection system for
as an Operational Shift Engineer, the
and become permanent staff, but I
the ship, refrigeration compressors and
experience gained from my time with
offered to go back each year for either
the main sewage storage tank and pumps
Cunard was very valuable. I never thought
two or three months which was accepted.
to discharge the sewage into the sea,
I would ever see the Queen Mary again
My last tour of duty on the ship was in
a very unpleasant part of the job often
when I saw her sail down Southampton
2008, by which time I had been awarded
being sprayed with sewage when pumps
Water in October 1967 having been sold
The “International Commodore of the Year
blocked up. It was very noisy as the four 18
to the City of Long Beach, California. To my
2008” by the Historic Steam Ship Society of
foot diameter propellers rotating at 180
surprise our son phoned me in 1996 and
America, California Chapter.
rpm the other side of the 1.25 inch ship
said he had heard a tour company was
side and as the ship pitched the propellers
taking a group to the Queen Mary on the
and marvellous experiences with this
would become closer to the surface of the
27th May 1996 for the 60th anniversary of
marvellous ship. I am the same age as the
sea causing severe cavitation.
the Queen Mary’s Maiden Voyage.
ship and we are both still afloat together.
My next jobs were operating in
That concludes a lifetime of interest
My wife and I decided to go and had
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 31
Short Story
Never-ending journey By Dan Boylan of Fareham Writers
The ferry was almost full when it swung away from Gun Wharf Quay towards mid channel. The young woman shook
they say.” He grunted and lowered his hand grip to the floor.
and jumble cluttering the aisle. She
“What an awful evening.” She said as
attempt to lighten the atmosphere.
“Naw, she’s in Beverly, the baby hospital, she’s just ‘ad another nipper.”
He sniffed and withdrew a packet of Players from his raincoat pocket.
“Baby hospital in Wickham? I’ve never heard of that before. My sister’s just
she arranged her shoulder-bag, brolly and briefcase.
. . .”
“Going on leave?” she asked, in an
spotted an empty seat, shuffled into it and eased herself down beside a sailor.
Turktown, er Gosport and get the bus “Does she live in Wickham?”
the rain from her brolly and picked her way through the clutter of bags, cases
to visit the missus, I’ll get the train in
“Oh, you can’t smoke on the ferry. It
had a baby, she had to go to the Q.A.”
must be a long time since you made the “Known worse.” he replied, with a hint
crossing.”
deliver. It’s different for navy wives.” He
gloom. He grunted again and put the “It’s going to rain like this all week,
32 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
“Navy wives have to go to Wickham to
cigarettes away. “Going to Wickham
said, with an edge of impatience.
“There were some Navy wives on the same ward as my sister at...........”
wording ‘H.M SHIPS’, instead of the name of an actual vessel. She watched as he reached into his tunic and pulled
“Wickham, Navy wives goes to the
out a pocket watch, flipped the cover
baby ward at Wickham. All of ‘em.” He
open and checked the time. She hadn’t
persisted, though his tolerance levels
ever seen anyone carrying such an old
were now clearly wearing thin.
fashioned timepiece and it mystified her even more.
“Who was that?” She asked the crewman. “Who?” “The sailor who’s just got off, who is
She detected his annoyance and backed off but felt the need to keep
side the mooring.
he?” A closer inspection revealed his dirty
a conversation flowing. “Are you
finger nails, nicotine stained fingers
assigned to a ship or are you waiting
and now she recalled, his Players
for a draft. My Dad was in the Navy and
cigarettes were untipped. He was
is always talking about ‘waiting for a
pallid, slight and his facial features
An elderly, silver haired man dressed
draft’; it’s a bit of a family joke.” And
were drawn and tense. She sniffed
in tweed stepped forward and quietly
she gave a little chuckle.
and caught the unmistakeable whiff
said, “That sailor is the spirit of Able
of engine oil, carbolic soap and a
Seaman Norman ‘Nobby’ Clarke, Miss.
lingering mustiness. He was a man of
He was killed with several others
sometimes it’s safer at sea than stuck in
mystery, an enigma, a contradiction.
in 1942 when a homeward bound
Portsmouth dockyard.”
She tried to make sense of it; to grasp
Heinkel dropped two bombs on the
just what it was that was so different
west bound ferry. He was going to
about him, why he was so unusual. He
Wickham to visit his wife who had just
quipped,”especially on a Saturday
was spooky, wraithlike and impersonal
given birth. He travels the Gosport
night at chucking out time!”
and his unearthly aura and appearance
Ferry, back and forth every day, though
troubled her.
few passengers ever see him. You are
“No joke waiting for a draft,
”You can say that again, Jack” she
He tutted and tossed his head back,
“What sailor?” he inquired, half turning around.
obviously one of the few who possess
clearly not appreciating her little joke.
Then the engines slowed and the
She chuckled again and put her hand
ferry swung towards the ramp and
engage with the spirit world. He will
onto his in a friendly gesture but was
other passengers began to gather
have been grateful for your company,
shocked at its unnatural coldness and
their belongings. Some were already
brief though it may have been. Do
immediately withdrew it.
standing and shuffling towards the
come again soon, we’d love to see you,
exits. She rose too and stooped to
we’re always here - all fifteen of us!”
collect her bags and brolly, anxious to
And he touched the tip of his cap, gave
the window at the glowing harbour
leave him behind. She stepped into the
her a sweet smile, turned, hovered a
lights and realised that he had no
aisle, shuffled forwards with the throng
second or two, then glided effortlessly
reflection, that only her own image
of passengers and the sailor come from
forward and disappeared through the
was captured in the darkened window
behind and gently pushed passed her.
steel bulkhead.
It was then that she glanced through
the necessary psychic powers to
pane. She reeled at the discovery. She looked at him again and he
“Sorry missy, I’m in a bit of hurry, I’ve
appeared just as authentic as the other
gotta a train to catch.” And he quickly
passengers. But she looked closer
moved forward and disappeared into
and noticed that his uniform was not
the mêlée of homebound commuters.
made from the light, modern material
She gasped, turned white and grabbed a seat for support. “Oh, may the good Lord preserve us!” she exclaimed.
but from a coarsely woven wool, his
A crewman put his hand forward
blue raincoat was an ancient, faded
to help her as the ferry pitched and
gabardine and his cap band bore the
swayed on the swell as it came along
“Are you talking to me love?” asked the bewildered crewman.
contactus@loopmagazine.net The LOOP | 33
All in all a great dining experience
Heather Clarke reviews Rancho’s new restaurant in Fareham the large dining area to the back. The décor too is reminiscent of the Southern states, with faux cow hide on the walls and a cosy, earthy feel. The tables in the main dining area are closely packed, but there are some set to the sides should you require a little more privacy. Despite how busy it was the staff were friendly and attentive, and kept those with a wait for their food updated on its progress. The menu itself is, as you would expect, largely cuts of beef and steak, with ribs, seafood and a few other options for Ranchos Steak House in Fareham is, in their
variety. If you’re dining with a veggie or
own words, the little sister of the already
are one yourself then this may not be the
established branches in Portsmouth,
best place for you as options are limited to
Poole, Bournemouth and Southampton.
one. If you are carnivorous, however, then
The latest edition to the family opened on 10 January and has so far duplicated the successes of its older siblings and will no doubt soon have a similar great reputation. I visited Ranchos on a Tuesday evening, which I assumed would be fairly quiet, perhaps not giving me the real feel of the restaurant. As it transpired I need not have worried as there was barely a spare table in sight, and there was plenty of atmosphere to enjoy with a few large parties and many
you’ll be in heaven. If in doubt about any of the cuts or dishes on the menu, the staff are more than happy to explain and make recommendations. There is also a dessert board, a choice of starters and a good wine list – a great accompaniment of red meat. We had the prawn cocktail for starters, which as a twist on the classic dish had a whiskey and garlic sauce. If I’m honest, had it been a lunch time this would have been enough of a meal by itself. The portions
were massive, and other starters included a half rack of ribs and empanadas – all of which will satisfy a modest appetite alone. A quick look around confirmed that the main would be on a similar scale – and we weren’t disappointed when they arrived. The steak and ribs were huge, with the steak resting on the ribs like a meaty plate, and the gambas that came as part of the surf and turf were sizeable too. Most importantly it was all delicious. You have a choice of sides with most dishes, including three different types of chips. The food was obviously fresh, well sourced and very tasty. I couldn’t manage dessert so opted for a coffee, of
other smaller tables all full.
which there was a great selection
For such a new venue it was
including Irish, but my other half
great to see so many people
had the chocolate cake that he
on a typically quiet night for
said was divine.
restaurant dining. The entrance to the restaurant
I have no doubt that the Fareham branch of Ranchos
is much like you would see in
will become just as popular as
American Steakhouses with a
its other eateries. The food is
bar front and smaller tables that
delicious, the staff friendly and the
are ideal for a quick lunch, and
space works really well – all in all a
a door to the side concealing
great dining experience.
34 | The LOOP www.loopmagazine.net
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