Romsey & Wellow Gazette - May 2023

Goodies Goodies

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Welcome...

Dear Residents,

We do hope you had a good Easter break. April showers it certainly was but the main weekend was lovely and gave us all a chance to get out and about. The month of May can be a wonderful ‘transition’ from Spring to summer, so let’s hope the weather is good to us.

I particularly hope the Coronation weekend is good and the weather allows us to get out and have some fun with family and friends. Here at Modern Magazines, we wish new King Charles III and his Queen Consort Camilla good health and every success. Wishing them All the Very Best!

We have had some great feedback about the magazines recently. Many advertisers are extremely happy with all the calls they are getting from you. Stephen, myself and all of us here at Modern Magazines really appreciate you using your little local magazine. Carl at Work Smart has doubled the size of his business by advertising with us and this has meant him giving more jobs to local people, which is a win all round. There is a write up inside.

Do contact me if you would like to see anything else in the magazine, or you have a success story about one of the advertisers. We are here to link everyone together.

Wishing you a wonderful month of May, a Coronation to enjoy and few extra days off work!

Debbie, Stephen & all of us here at Modern Magazines

The King’s New Groove

He was raised to one day be king, but can Charles III fully realise his vision for Great Britain? Only time will tell.

They say the best things come to those who wait, and King Charles III’s 70 years spent as heir apparent suggest he is well deserving of the throne. For His Majesty, ascension is bittersweet with the loss of his mother still laying heavy on the royal heart, but he is equally keen to finally execute his master plan to bring the Windsors into the 21st century.

But what does this actually mean? And what are the implications for the country as a whole?

One of the main tenets is to slim down the royal family. Over recent years this has happened somewhat organically anyway with the voluntary stepping back of Prince Harry and the less voluntary removal of Prince Andrew from official duty. However, King Charles III is expected to go one step further as he is reportedly seeking to change legislation that allows

non-working royals to be counsellors of state.

Her Majesty’s passing means that Queen Consort Camilla, as the King’s spouse, and Princess Beatrice, as the next adult in line to the throne, are eligible to fill these roles. But aside from Prince William, three of the five counsellors – Prince Andrew, Prince Harry and Princess Beatrice – are non-working royals. This is thought not to sit well with the King who may change the law to allow his siblings, the Earl of Wessex and the Princess Royal, to take on the duty alongside their current roles as working royals.

Having lived through several tumultuous periods in the monarchy’s history, King Charles III is acutely aware of the Republican sentiment among certain Britons. Queen Elizabeth II was hugely popular, but there are some who are convinced that now is the right time to disband the monarchy and move forward into a fully modern, democratic Britain. Yet when you consider how much the monarchy generates for our economy, not to mention how valuable our traditions and illustrious

history are to us culturally, we would likely lose more than we would gain.

According to Forbes, the House of Windsor is estimated to be worth £19bn. And while the average annual cost for UK taxpayers in royal upkeep comes to around £500m a year, it’s estimated that the monarchy’s brand contributes £2.5bn to the British economy over the same period.

In short, His Majesty knows his worth, but he also respects the need to assimilate more with the everyday people in his kingdom - the recent cost of living crisis, environmental awareness and societal change being issues he must help solve if he is to have a peaceful reign.

Councillor’s Column

Exactly a year after Russia’s appalling invasion of Ukraine, Test Valley councillors met to discuss the council’s budget for 2023/24. Dressed in yellow and blue to show solidarity with the Ukrainian people and to raise money for their injured soldiers, our meeting was also dominated by the economic consequence of one of the world’s biggest gas suppliers waging war against one of its biggest grain producers. Because, just like any household budget, Test Valley’s finances have also been hit by high inflation, exacerbated by the conflict.

Thankfully our previous financial prudence as well as the decision to set up project enterprise, which has earnt the council an additional £8.5m over the last four years, meant we were able to table a council tax increase some 7% below inflation. The £5 rise on a band D property means an average bill of £158.91 for an entire year of Test Valley Borough Council services. At least £40 lower than the average for the rest of England. Not only to have your bin collected every week but to maintain the housing & homelessness, planning, licensing, countryside, parks & open spaces, environmental health, economic development and leisure services - as well as continuing with our ambitious plans to improve our town centres.

I do recognise though the impact that even a very small rise could have on the most vulnerable in our borough. Residents on the lowest incomes already receive help through our generous Council Tax Support

Scheme but thanks to some additional government funding we have been able to go further. Delivering an extra £55 discount to households that are facing severe financial hardship. Cushioning them against the rising cost of living and increases from other precepting authorities.

The meeting also gave us an opportunity to announce a proposal to reduce the council’s carbon emissions generated from our fleet vehicles by 95% by switching the fuel in our bin lorries from diesel to hydrotreated vegetable oil. Using this biofuel does not require expensive vehicle changes and is completely fossil-free, fulfilling the pledges we made in our Climate Emergency action plan.

My thanks go to council officers and fellow councillors who’ve put so much work into the budget-setting process. Despite global pressures, our sound finances have meant we’ve been able to keep council tax low and maintain frontline services, whilst doing the right thing for the most vulnerable and our environment.

Phil North Leader of the Test Valley Borough Council

Cllr.

Puzzle Page Quick Crossword

Across Clues:

2. Drink (3)

5. Close-fitting upper part of dress (6)

7. Brightly coloured flowers (6)

9. Responsible (11)

10. Intelligence (6)

Down Clues:

1. Decoration made up of small pieces (6)

2. Small, shiny discs (6)

3. Attendant (6)

4. Subtropical red marine percoid fish (6)

6. Inept (11)

11. Ease (6)

13. Entertainment theatre (6)

16. Final point (6)

18. Exaggerated (11)

19. Determined by agreement (6)

20. Wide, straight road (6)

21. Whole (3)

8. A rounded upper surface (11)

10. Smoothly curving line (3)

12. Hot fat or oil cooking (3)

14. Attribute (6)

15. Programme (6)

16. Deadly (6)

17. A thin, flat-cut diamond (6)

Word Ladder

Make your way from TOES to LEGS by changing one letter on each step to make a new word!

TOES LEGS

ANSWERS: (TOES,

The Avengers Quiz

1. Who is the first Avenger?

2. What is the name of Tony Stark’s personal butler?

3. What is the name of the magical land that Doctor Strange visits to learn the mystic arts?

4. Who is the main villain in the first Avengers movie?

5. Who plays the character of Black Widow?

6. What is the name of Thor’s hammer?

7. Who is the father of Peter Quill (Star-Lord)?

8. What is the name of the organization that creates the Winter Soldier?

9. What is the name of the villain in the movie “Black Panther”?

10. Who is the final boss in the movie “Avengers: Endgame”?

Queen Anne

Anne Hathaway just doesn’t add up. Firstly, how can someone so supremely talented and beautiful also be so downto-earth and charming? And what is it about her kindness and warmth that evokes such fury in a small number of online individuals – the unambiguously named Hath-haters? The truth is, the 40-year-old Oscar winner probably is too nice for Hollywood, but it is this combination of steeliness and vulnerability that make her such a compelling performer.

With a career that has involved playing roles such as a Disney princess, Catwoman and a 19th century French pauper, we ought to think twice before trying to place the mercurial star in a box.

“I think versatility is probably the most important thing when it comes to surviving in the movie industry,” she begins. “I am lucky in the sense that I’ve been offered roles that move across various different genres, but also the fact that I’m perhaps too easily bored when it comes to doing the same things all the time.”

Versatility in recent years for the New York-born actress has also meant embracing motherhood.

Since son Jonathan arrived in the world in March 2016, followed by brother Jack three years later, Hathaway has become regarded as a passionate and caring soul whose greatest role yet is as a mum. By her own

admission, it seemed that for someone who had endured more than her fair share of setbacks on the road to building a family with actor, producer and jewellery designer husband Adam Shulman, the end destination was finally worth the journey.

“I did feel as if it was in some way a reward for some of the nasty stuff I had been through,” she says. “You quickly realise that something truly meaningful, such as parenting, is hard and comes packaged with a lot of guilt and self-loathing, and that puts everything else in perspective.

“I try not to beat myself up about things, about the way

The critical resurgence of Anne Hathaway. to

I have lost my temper… but it is very difficult, and I think I am improving. It’s a journey; a journey I want to slow down.”

Professionally though, Hathaway cannot stop. This year, she returns with romantic comedy She Came to Me, psychological drama Mothers’ Instinct and Amazon production The Idea of You.

It all adds up to the amiable Hathaway looking set to reach her most creative point yet.

“There is no set process, per say, but I think the best scripts are those that I read and really can’t work out.

“It’s about choosing stuff that, in whatever way, pushes the boundaries of filmmaking… that teleports me to another, visceral experience.

“If I can find that, I’m happy!”

Woman fined after large fly-tip was found in Thruxton

A woman from Wiltshire has been fined after a large fly-tip was discovered in Thruxton.

On 7 December 2022, Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) received reports that rubbish had been dumped at Thruxton Racing Circuit.

The waste consisted of a large amount of general household rubbish including a laptop, books, toys, clothing, an old game console and numerous other items.

Paperwork in the fly-tip led officers to Angela Keen, of The Groves, Chilton Foliat.

Keen, 54, attended an interview under caution and stated that she had handed her waste over to two men who had cold-called at her property.

Keen did not ask the men for any transfer notes or legal documents and paid them £200 to dispose of the rubbish.

Keen pleaded guilty to failing in her duty of care in regard to the transfer of her household waste to an unauthorised person.

Appearing at Basingstoke Magistrates Court on 21 March 2023, Keen was ordered to pay a fine of £140 and £100 in compensation for the clean-up of the waste.

Paul Wykes, Head of Environmental Services at Test Valley Borough Council, said:

“This prosecution really highlights the importance of people making sure they see all the legal documents that confirms someone is an authorised waste carrier before paying them to take away any of your rubbish. It takes very little time to do so, there is no excuse. It could prevent you from having to make a court appearance in the future.”

To be or not to be

Celebrating 75 years since the release of Sir Laurence Olivier’s film version of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the first British film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.

“Since Brevity is the soul of wit, I shall be brief.”

May 2023 sees the 75th anniversary of the Sir Laurence Olivier’s film adaptation of Hamlet, arguably William Shakespeare’s best-known play, which was directed by and starred the man famous for his psychologically intense versions of the Bard’s works.

Winning four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor –for Olivier himself – the film is continually referenced to as a benchmark for Shakespeareinspired productions for the big screen.

In fact, many critics have written over the last threequarters of a century that

the cinematic version of Hamlet can be viewed without even thinking that it was originally penned by Shakespeare at all, but more as an astonishing and standalone piece of art.

It’s rare that the viewer takes their eyes from the screen during the 153-minute masterpiece, as we are guided along the magical journey of ghost story, revenge plot, character study and actionpacked melodrama.

In truth, it wasn’t just the masterful Olivier who ascended to acting impeccability for the movie. A tremendous supporting cast of Basil Sydney, Eileen Herlie, Norman Wooland, Felix Aylmer, Terrence Morgan, Jean Simmons, John Laurie, Esmond Knight and Anthony Quayle all sparkled.

The latter went on to spend several years as Artistic Director of the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in the writer’s hometown of StratfordUpon-Avon.

One famous contemporary of Olivier though wasn’t involved, as most thought. It was assumed that Sir John Gielgud was behind the eerie and unsettling ghost in the 1948 film – even though he did actually go on to do so in later stage, radio, TV and album versions. Yet it was Olivier all along.

One oddity that was proven as true however was that having been born in 1907, Olivier was 40 years old when the film came to pass, and the aforementioned Eileen Herlie who played his mum… was 11 years his junior!

Since Hamlet succeeded in becoming the first British film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, over 50 versions have followed on screen.

It proves that Olivier’s original went a long way not just to making movie history, but in inspiring the generations of movie-makers who followed. William would be proud.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

It’s an important legal document that lets you appoint one or more people to help you make decisions, or make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to.

Think of an LPA like an insurance policy, putting it in place while you’re fit and healthy gives you peace of mind knowing that, no matter how life plays out, your health and financial matters will be managed as per your wishes

Here’s how it works:

Margaret suffers an unexpected illness or accident, resulting in a loss of mental capacity.

Without an LPA

Next of kin doesn’t have the legal right to make decisions for Margaret

Sole bank accounts are frozen

Joint bank accounts are frozen in some circumstances

Bills can’t be paid from Margaret’s money

Investment decisions can’t be made (any previous authority given to make investment decisions is cancelled)

Property can’t be sold, meaning a co-habiting partner can’t move house if they wanted to

Next of kin don’t have the legal right to make decisions about medical treatment

Next of kin don’t have the legal rights to make personal choices, for example where Margaret should live

If you don’t plan ahead and you suffer an accident or illness which causes you to lose mental capacity, your next of kin can only get the legal authority to act on your behalf through a Court Order. This is a long, costly and intrusive process.

With an LPA

Margaret puts LPAs in place for both Financials & Health and Care Decisions appointing a representative

Margarethas legallyappointeda representativetomake decisionsabouther finances

Thebankrecognisesthe chosenrepresentative’s legalauthorityandNO accountsarefrozen

Investmentdecisions canbemadeby Margaret’s representatives

Bills can be paid as normal

Property can be sold if needed

The representative has the legal right to make decisions about Margaret’s medical treatment

The representative can make personal choices for Margaret, such as where to live.

By planning ahead, you can choose who should have legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to make decisions for yourself. A Lasting Power of Attorney costs far less than a Court Order and the people you choose can step in as soon as needed

A Design for Life… The Kevin McCloud Column

Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the a able architectural business owner talks about embracing darker shades in making our living space look stylish and welcoming.

Something I get asked a lot is how to use darker shades in a way that enables a room to feel stylish, whilst still inviting. It can be a tough thing to get right, but it’s certainly achievable with the correct approach.

The first thing I ask people is their definition of ‘dark’. After all, dark doesn’t have to mean pitch black! Traditional gloomy colours can sometimes feel cold and unwelcoming, but use of warm-toned dark shades like deep reds, burnt oranges and rich browns can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

The next big thing is texture. Incorporating a variety of textures like plush fabrics, cosy throws and soft rugs can help balance out the darkness of the room, en route to making it feel more welcoming. With this in mind, ensure you don’t use objects or furniture that are oversized, as these will dominate the darkness and make the room feel insular.

Next is where the lighting itself comes in. I feel the real secret when it comes to creating a welcoming

space with dark colours is to utilise a variety of lighting sources; so consider table lamps, floor lamps and overhead lighting, to create a warm and inviting glow.

In essence, you’re not looking to light up a dark room – more to accentuate some areas of darkness by lighting up other parts, where the detail is. It’s a skilled art, but embracing darkness in corners or through shadow and shade is incredibly satisfying.

Finally, juxtapose this with light-coloured accents - pillows, curtains and artwork can help to balance out the darkness of the room and prevent it from feeling too heavy or oppressive.

Overall, creating a welcoming room using dark colours in interior design requires careful attention to detail and a thoughtful approach to colour, texture, and lighting. With the right techniques, and if you’re openminded and brave, even the darkest of rooms can feel warm and inviting.

Member of TrustATrader

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FOAM REMOVAL WAS £1995 NOW FROM £995

FIRE RISK

TIMBER DAMAGE

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MOVING HOME

Spray foam is very flammable putting your property and anyone living in it at much higher risk.

Spray foam has been known to cause damage to the structure of your roof by not allowing it to breathe, which can result in rotting. Most of the time this will be hidden behind the foam itself.

Spray foam contains Isocyanates which are powerful irritants to the mucous membranes of the eyes and gastrointestinal and respiratory tract.

Because of the dangers associated with spray foam insulation, mortgage companies will not lend for properties with spray foam installed.

Just like mortgages, your provider will more than likely check your property for spray foam insulation and can refuse to release equity on this basis.

Viewfinders Of Romsey Camera Club

This year’s theme for Viewfinders of Romsey Camera Club’ Whitemore Trophy competition was mobile phone photography. Entries had to be taken and edited using their mobiles; no camera’s allowed! The winning image in a vote by the club members was “Abstract CD” by Jackie Ridout. “Sunset Beach” by Julie Cousens came second and Brian Whittaker’s “A View from the Bridge” was third.

Viewfinders meets most Tuesdays at the Jubilee Hall, New Road, Timsbury and new members, regardless of

photographic experience, are always welcome.

For more information, visit the club’s website at www.viewfinderscameraclub.org.uk or e-mail

secretary@viewfinderscc.org.uk

Attached photographs: Jackie Ridout with the Whitemore Trophy

“Abstract CD”; the winning image by Jackie Ridout

COVID-19 spring vaccines are available for those most at-risk of serious illness:

• Adults aged 75 years and over

• Residents in care homes for older adults

• Individuals aged five and over who have a weakened immune system

The level of protection we get from the COVID-19 vaccine can reduce over time, so it's important you attend for this spring dose when invited.

You may have been invited by your GP Practice, through the NHS App or by post, but you can also visit nhs.uk/CovidVaccination to book online.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Vaccination Helpline on 0300 561 0018 can help with booking an appointment or checking if you are eligible.

If you are yet to have any COVID-19 vaccines, it isn’t too late. Everyone aged five and over is eligible for two doses. You have until 30 June to get protected.

Getting vaccinated saves lives.

Growing Business...Locally!

With a strong presence in Modern Magazines' advertisements, Work Smart Roofing and Building Ltd is a highly professional and dependable roofing company that has unparalleled expertise in the industry.

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x2 Overall Business 100’s Of Happy Clients

4.87 TrustATrade Reviews

x2 Overall Business 100’s Of Happy Clients

We cannot praise the work of Carl and his team of hard workers highly enough. From the simple start of answering our initial enquiry, which many tradesmen fail to do, through every stage of the work Carl has kept us informed both in pictures and in person. Due to spray foam insulation in our loft Carl completely removed all our tiles, cutting out all traces of the insulation and then replaced the roof to a high standard including high specification insulation. The work was completed within five days due to his large team of skilled workers. He managed the delivery of scaffolding and the removal of same in very timely manner. The worksite was kept very tidy throughout and the waste removed promptly. We would highly recommend this company.”

- Alan Hicks

You recently repaired my parents roof at the above address & I wanted to thank you so very much for all your care & compassion towards them. My mother has been so touched by your kindness, I have never heard her cry with gratitude before.I live in Canada & always feel so helpless being so far away, especially when something goes wrong. The peace of mind that you gave me knowing that they were so cared for during such a stressful time, I cannot thank you enough. You are a very rare & special person.

Thank you again for doing such a great job!”

- Jay Naylor

Your magazines serve the community so well and changes their lives. People really have great trust and security with it, and the good contractors carry that on - Work Smart Roofing and Building Ltd

Work

Modern

Smart Roofing and Building Ltd have been advertising with

Magazines for around 1 year and say their business has doubled in that time

EXTEND ROOF LIFE

IMPROVED LOOK

VALUE OF PROPERTY

ORGANISMS & BACTERIA

Rated

Member of

Regular moss removal can help extend the life of your roof by preventing moss growth from damaging shingles and causing leaks.

Removing moss from your roof can significantly improve the overall look of your home, making it look cleaner and well-maintained.

Keeping your roof moss-free can add value to your property, as it signals that the property has been well-maintained and is in good condition.

Moss growth on your roof can lead to the buildup of organisms and bacteria, which can be harmful to your health. Regular moss removal can help prevent this.

Moss growth can clog gutters and downspouts, causing water to overflow and potentially damaging the pipes. Regular moss removal can prevent these issues.

29 Please mention Modern Magazines when contacting advertisers

Cultural Coronation

How the term ‘Coronation’ has permeated so much of our language today.

Coronation Street

The first episode of Coronation Street was aired on December 9th 1960, just seven years after Elizabeth II took to the throne.

It has since gone on to become the world’s longest-running soap opera, clocking up almost 11,000 episodes, with actor William Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, an ever-present since episode one. In that time he has had three wives, almost 30 girlfriends and, by his own admission, says he represents “the most dysfunctional of families”!

Of course, the Weatherfield location is entirely fictional… unlike, that is, the 74 Coronation Streets that exist around the UK.

Coronation Chicken

A dish inspired by George V’s Silver Jubilee in 1935 and perfected by Winkfield Place College student Angela Wood, who was tasked with preparing a coronation dish in advance

of a 350-person banquet to be held at Westminster School.

The dish combines flavour, spice and sweetness, and is a generational favourite across the Commonwealth, and beyond.

Coronation rock

A large rocky formation, located on planet Mars near the landing site of the Curiosity rover, is named Coronation.

Coronation horses

Two famous horses have taken the name Coronation. Both Thoroughbreds, they first rode to victory at the 1841 Epsom Derby; and over a hundred years later, in 1949, another by the same name won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

Coronation, the town

There are three towns that go by the name of Coronation. Two are location in South Africa; while a further, is found in Alberta, Canada.

Swamping all three in size, if not population, is the Coronation Glacier, which is found on Baffin Island in Canada, and measures around 660km sq.

Coronation transport

The magnificent Coronation Class

locomotive, first built in 1937, once held the British speed record, clocking 126mph.

The 6220’s maiden run in June of that year was tempered by its inability to slow, and it tore through Crewe station’s reverse curves at 53mph – well above the 20mph limit – much to the panic of passengers!

The HMS Coronation gunship, meanwhile, was built in Portsmouth and launched in 1685. She took part in the Battle of Beachy Head in 1690 against the French, but dragged her anchors the following year near Penlee Point in Cornwall and was wrecked, with 600 of the 620 on board perishing.

The wreck was discovered in 1967 and is now protected by English Heritage.

Coronation grape

Finally, the Coronation grape, also known as the Sovereign Coronation grape. This hardy variety was formulated in British Columbia, Canada, with around 2.5 million kilograms produced each year.

What is a Digital Asset?

When people consider the assets they might leave behind to loved ones, digital assets are commonly overlooked. A recent survey by the Law Society revealed that a staggering 93% of people who have made a will have not included digital assets.

Considering your online footprint when making provisions for your will, will save your executors a lot of hassle and headaches.

What is a digital asset?

A digital asset is anything that is stored in a binary format and encompasses any account that you open online ie:

Cryptocurrency (virtual wallets)

Paypal, Spotify

Amazon, Ebay, Shopify

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Online photos

If you fail to leave instructions to your executors or family members then the winding up of these accounts can be nearly impossible for them, virtual wallets (cryptocurrencies) will be lost if secure access has not been provided to a trusted executor.

If you have any of these digital assets, we strongly recommend that you collate your usernames and passwords and arrange for your executors or attorneys to have access when needed. You might wish to store such information with your will. At the very least, it is sensible to have a list of such assets that your executors/attorneys can investigate. For those who are particularly computer savvy, you can also store all of this information in one private online document and provide the single password to access it to your chosen person before or after it is required.

This is intended for general guidance only. In all cases specific advice should be sought.

Bells are a specialist Wills, Probate and Conveyancing practice. The office opens five days a week Monday –Friday 9am – 5pm and home and hospital appointments can be arranged where appropriate. Our professional service is right on your doorstep.

Join us again next time for another legal insight!

Tel: 01794 513328

E: bells@bells-romsey-solicitors.co.uk

The Adventures of Daichi The Modern Magazines Camper Van

Wafflicious is ONE Year Old! As you may remember Daichi, our lovable Campervan who loves the sea, brought us to Weymouth to not only visit - but to actually live! It was a move we were all excited about. Can you imagine that now over one year ago, we opened our brand-new family dining experience right on the seafront! Yes, a full year ago... we cannot believe how time flies. Offering the most delightful range of tempting treats such as waffles, sundaes, milkshakes, scoop ice-creams and luxury hot chocolate, you really are guaranteed delicious when you come to Wafflicious!

On Saturday 25th February, we celebrated our first birthday. We commemorated the day by offering 50% off everything which of course, drew many of our wonderful regular visitors, as well as some brand-new faces.

Situated in the most perfect location on the Esplanade, overlooking Weymouth’s stunning beach and

landscape, our guests can devour their treats while taking in the stunning view. Ideal for families and couples alike, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Larger parties can now book our “Flamingo Suite” for groups of up to 20 people, perfect not only for children’s birthday treats but also for those who are young at heart! We get many adults sneaking in for a tasty dessert and a good cup of coffee.

The menu at Wafflicious includes all your favourite toppings, including the very popular ‘Smoreo’. You can also choose ‘Chocolate Fudge’, ‘StrawNana’, ‘Apple Pie’ which comes with a full slice of apple pie, and ‘Canadian’ which is a delicious mix of maple syrup and cinnamon. All the Waffles and Sundaes are served with Marshfield Farm Ice cream.

We even have treats for your fourlegged friends as we stock Marshfield Farm Doggy Ice Cream ‘Scoops’. What a treat after a run on the beach!

Taking care of all tastes, Wafflicious

From our family... to you and yours!

Pooches can enjoy their very own treats

also offers savoury waffles for guests who don’t have such a sweet tooth, with tantalising toppings such as ham, cheese and onion with chicken and pepperoni for a ‘pizza waffle’ experience, or smoked salmon, avocado or roasted peppers for a more sophisticated palate. Whether you’re a Weymouth local or visiting our beautiful town while you’re on holiday, no trip to the beach is complete without a trip to Wafflicious! We love to see people arriving from all over the South of England, as well as much farther afield. One lovely couple from Australia genuinely declared that our beach is prettier than Bondi Beach! Daichi of course agrees wholeheartedly.

Hayden is now managing the parlour and we have to say he is doing a fantastic job. He dashes around all day making waffles, talking to our amazing customers and making sure everything is stocked up. He says, “We have loved our first year and appreciate all the support our customers have given. We look forward to serving everyone in the many years to come. And remember its delicious here at Wafflicious!” With a big smile on his face of course!

Starting a new business is a challenge

for sure. Having a passion to make it go right, wanting it to succeed and working tremendously hard, is at the heart of what we have done. We really are looking forward to our second summer. Seeing those happy faces, families coming together and friends meeting up is just joyous. Our success is a result of the Lockdown, when we had time to look, plan and decide what we wanted to do. I think that is quite a turn around. If you are ever in Weymouth and want to pop in and say, “Hello!” we would love to see you. Mention Daichi and you will receive 10% off anything you try.

If you want to book in advance, or book a party please call Debbie on 07886 641600, or the Wafflicious email is eat@wafflicious.co.uk

Follow Wafflicious on socials for special offers and events:

www.facebook.com/WaffliciousWeymouth

www.instagram.com/wafflicious_weymouth

Daichi is very happy with the decision he made and will update you with his next plans, in the forthcoming issues of the magazine. We look forward to seeing you!

By Debbie Corney

All photos courtesy of Ellie Smeaton Photography

Perfect for just a coffee and a catch up...

It is service... with a smile!

Professor of Music To Visit Weyhill

The WEOS concert on Thursday 18 May features talented performer CHRIS STANBURY from Sutton in Surrey, making his seventh appearance at Weyhill. He first played there in May 2003, shortly after joining the electronic keyboard circuit; since then, he has progressed in leaps and bounds to attain various prestigious musical qualifications from the London College of Music, including Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees.

Variety is one of the most exciting elements of a musician’s life and this has certainly proved to be the case for Chris. He says, “There’s no such thing as a typical week, which is why every engagement is special and unique. I might be touring for a few days and then straight into accompanying and teaching.”

He combines his successful performing career with that of a music examiner for the London College of Music and is a committed and passionate teacher. His examining work takes him all over the world, providing presentations and workshops to teachers and students. Chris also works in the musical instrument industry as a piano and keyboard product specialist and demonstrator.

In his concerts on the electronic keyboard circuit he always sets out to create a refreshing and enjoyable programme packed with variety, including big band music, songs from the shows, tributes to the 60s and 70s and classical masterpieces. More information about Chris can be found at

www.organfax.co.uk/players/chrisstanbury

The concert commences at 7.30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.) and tickets at £6.00 are available at the door.

Further information about the Club can be obtained at

www.weyhill-eos.co.uk or by phoning 01264 323213

Green ngers… the Alan Titchmarsh column

He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and allround horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses something in our gardens that dates right the way back to 1400BC, yet is as popular today than ever before. It’s the humble pergola.

I was asked by someone the other day what my favourite thing was in my garden – a plant, a tree, perhaps something manmade.

In answering that, I think I would struggle to look past a pergola. And if there’s one addition you’re thinking of making to your outdoor space this year, consider one of these. They date right the way back beyond Roman times, though were popularised by Caesar and his chums.

While the belief is you’ll need a decent plot of land on which to place it, in truth pergolas can be built in a variety of sizes, shapes and materials to suit any garden style or size. They can be freestanding or attached to a house or other garden structure and will give you the necessary height that means you can experiment with vertical gardening – think climbing plants such as vines, roses, and wisteria – without

having to worry about awkward poles, wonky trellises and more!

Mostly, a pergola provides a real focal point to the garden – I often think of mine as being akin to a church altar! It’s something that looks over an entire space with a sense of importance and prestige.

On a practical level, pergolas are brilliant for shade and shelter. There are many plants that shouldn’t be in direct sunlight for the whole of the day, while having a shaded area that can be used for outdoor entertaining, dining or relaxing can transform an average afternoon, whether alone or with friends, into a glorious one.

There’s also the privacy element, and the fact pergolas are generally low maintenance and

can last for many years with minimal upkeep.

As for cost, my advice is to shop around and see what you can get. From the very basic costing a couple of hundred pounds to elegant stone-pillared creations that go well into four figures, your budget and your personal taste can lead the way in creating for you a garden centrepiece that will evolve in the same way that your garden does. With good maintenance, your pergola has the ability to outlast the majority of other features in your garden… just ask the Romans!

Providing excellent workmanship and customer service for over 25 years

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ROMSEY L VES

By Alex Baxter

bs! ubs!

A Ramble

Walking, hiking, rambling, going for a potter. We have many terms for the instinctive process of putting one foot in front of the other. And yet, as a people, we take it in our stride to set a course and march with steely mindedness to distant self-imposed targets. Determined to reach the top of hills or favoured bridges - taking routes that incorporate scenic relief and maybe even a pub reward. Usually it is on Christmas Day, New Years, Easter, or any brisk Sunday afternoon after a hearty roast lunch that you will see families and friends going for a stroll. We all do it. But with it being National Walking Month, let me show you just how important the opportunity to walk is to Romsonians.

It doesn’t take much digging to find

local groups that champion the health benefits and happiness to be had from a planned walk.

Starting locally, there is Walk N Talk - based in Abbotswood. These meetings (on Tuesdays, middaySports Pavilion) are supervised by volunteers trained in mental health first aid. By encouraging people to take a break from their busy lives and spend a moment of self-reflection outdoors, the organisation hopes the scheme will ‘challenge stigma and promote positive attitudes to mental health’.

Test Valley Health Walks is a similar wellbeing scheme. Led by volunteer walk leaders, groups are taken for 60 minutes on 2-3 mile walks on varied routes. Their aim is threefold: meet new people and keep fit while taking in the Test Valley and all its splendour. Check their website for more information.

If however you are a seasoned hiker in need of something adventurous then you may want to consider Romsey Ramble Group. They are a collective, going by their Facebook page, who take joy in exercising the Ramblers right to walk as freely as they breathe. They are perhaps one of the most active social groups to be found - organising inclusive walks by age and ability. For them rambling (“walking in the countryside for sheer pleasure”) is an all year round affair, racking up miles as they cross impressive landscapes in Hampshire. No matter the weather they take on recces with their sturdy walking

boots and reliable rucksacks. Raising awareness of the environment and public rights of way as they go. Additionally they also run Romsey Walking Festival in June.

Romsey is well situated as a base to set out and tour the county on foot. On a map you can see why. We are encircled with rural scenery ideal for wandering. With the New Forest to our South, South Downs to our east, and civil parishes that dot to our north between Salisbury, Andover, and Winchetser. As the 9th largest county, we are afforded plenty of diverse terrain that can instil vigour in anyone to get up and traverse it. Woodlands, plains, coastline. The sights can be less predictable than the weather, but no less idyllic and calming. Plus there is the picturesque 44-mile Test Way Walk (ideal for those obsessed with their step count - we all know someone). Should you wish to explore yourself, bare in mind Hampshire Countryside Service has a list of mapped trails available online.

Of course the idea that walking can be a recreational, leisurely, activity can be traced to the Romanticistsan 18th century artistic movement

that birthed unbridled passion for nature. Writers, poets and painters such as Wordsworth, William Blake, and Samuel Palmer, devoted works that immortalised the British landscape with a mix of adoration and grievance. It was their attempt at imbuing nostalgia for simpler times after the industrial revolution had mechanised once unspoilt lands with smoke stacks and factories. If anyone could see through the gloom and glorify green pastures and muddy tracks it was them. In a sense rambling is a continuation of this. Treating what lays on our doorstep as a gift to be explored and protected as more and more greenbelts give way to brick and mortar. Something we only know too well about.

Still, while there remains unenclosed land to walk on, and a spirited community to appreciate it, Romsey will always ramble. The late cricket commentator John Arlott described Hampshire best in his monologue on Radio 4 in 1968 as “layered like a cabbage” and you can see what he means. The borough is in a privileged position to have a unique blend of vistas trail seekers could only dream of. Remember, all it takes is one foot in front of the other.

Let’s hear it for the boys

Men’s attire may not hit the heady or extroverted heights associated with the fairer sex, but there’s plenty to be excited about this summer for the man who has a fashion plan. Here are some must-have items that could be making a path to a wardrobe near you.

Light jackets

The return of what some might consider an Eighties throwback akin to shell suits and outrageously colourful ski wear has been provoked by the appearance of a Quiksilver jacket in the town of Hawkins, in hit Netflix drama Stranger Things.

The item was crafted as part of a collaboration with the costume department of the hit show, reminding us of arcades, skateboards and retro summer vibes from a simpler era.

Surf and ski aviators

The classic Top Gun aviators have undergone something of a redesign in recent years, with surf and ski versions moving this iconic classic from the highoctane fast lane and onto the rather more salubrious climes of Val Thorens and Courchevel.

‘Stay baggy’ tapered jeans

Tapered baggy denim is back.

After the likes of Pete Davidson and Justin Bieber pushed the look hard in 2022, the industry has responded by rolling out a delectable depth of dynamic denim that will drive that classic stonewashed look this year.

Baggy jeans not only look good as streetwear, skate wear and as voluminous vintage, they’re ultra-comfortable too!

Plain shorts

Whereas in previous years the shorts vibe has varied from sport to camouflage, summer 2023 will see a return to simple cotton, straight cuts and uncomplicated designs.

Functionality is being taken to be as important as flair, so expect durability, simple shades, pocket space aplenty and, of course, a cool and comfortable feel.

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66

with any dress code, any time, any place.

Lightweight shirts

This summer will see the return of the roomy, flowing shirt. Whites, greys and sky blues will dominate the high streets, putting to one side those dark, dusky tones and styles that seem to have patterned our social outings for the past couple of years.

Mexico

We’ve all been invited to a party that brands itself under the ‘smart/casual’ tag, and it often feels like the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 was designed for every gathering.

There is no better nor more iconic fashion trainer than the Tiger – with a variety of colours ensuring an appropriate match

The fact lightweight fabrics will rule the roost must imply we’re in for a summer of high temperatures and radiant sunshine. Perhaps the fashion fraternity know something we don’t!

T.A. Spacagna Ltd

Candice Brown’s Salmon and Asparagus Quiche

Perfect for large parties and small gatherings alike, this recipe takes care and attention, but done well will keep hungry tummies well satisfied.

Ingredients

(makes 18 mini tarts)

You’ll need 18 10cm round tartlet tins

For the pastry

• 500g plain flour

• Salt and pepper

• 2 tsp dried parsley

• 250g cold cubed butter

• 4 medium egg yolks

• 100ml ice-cold water

• 1 beaten egg (egg wash)

For the filling

• Drizzle olive oil

• 3 x 110g salmon fillets

• 3 sprigs fresh dill

• ½ tsp chilli flakes

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• ½ lemon, sliced

• 220g fine asparagus

• Large bowl ice cold water

• 8 large eggs

• 160ml double cream

• 200g Parmesan, grated

• 100g Gruyère, grated

• Small bunch fresh chives

Method

1. Combine the flour, salt, pepper and parsley in a bowl. Then rub the butter in with your fingertips until it feels like breadcrumbs. Add egg yolks, then slowly mix in the water.

Knead the pastry into a ball and divide in half, wrapping in cling film. Chill in the fridge for 30 mins.

2. For the filling, preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas mark 4. Lay out a sheet of foil and drizzle with olive oil. Place the salmon on top with dill, chilli flakes, garlic, salt and pepper.

Squeeze the lemon over the fish and lay on top. Wrap in foil on a baking tray and bake for 12–15 mins. Set the fish aside to cool, discarding the herbs etc., then refrigerate.

3. Bring a pan of salted water to boil, add the asparagus for 1 minute, then put the asparagus in ice-cold water and drain when cool. Cut into 1cm pieces, then preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas mark 4.

4. Roll the pastry to 4mm thick and cut into 11cm circles to line the pastry tins. Put the tins onto a baking tray and chill for 10 mins.

5. Cut squares of baking paper slightly larger than the tins, putting one into each pastry case and add baking beans. Bake for 15 mins. Remove the paper and baking beans and brush the pastry with egg wash. Return to the oven for 6 mins.

Mix the eggs and double cream, with salt and pepper. Set aside 30g of the Parmesan and mix the remaining cheeses into the egg mixture, adding fresh chives.

6. Put chunks of the cooked salmon and asparagus into the baked pastry. Spoon the egg mixture in to fill the tarts to the top. Sprinkle over the rest of the Parmesan and bake for 15 mins.

Sarah Stokes

MSSCh Dip Pod Med MBChA

Member of the British Chiropody & Podiatry Association

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Puzzle Page Answers

Quick Crossword Solution #027

Answers:

Across: 2. Sip, 5. Bodice, 7. Orchid, 9. Accountable, 10. Acumen, 11. Relief, 13. Cinema, 16. Lastly, 18. Pretentious, 19. Stated, 20. Avenue, 21. All. Down: 1. Mosaic, 2. Sequin, 3. Porter,

The Avengers

Quiz Answers

6. Mjolnir

7. Ego the Living Planet

8. Hydra

9. Erik Killmonger

10. Thanos

4. Bigeye, 6. Incompetent, 8. Cobblestone, 10. Arc, 12. Fry, 14. Impute, 15. Agenda, 16. Lethal, 17. Lasque. 1. Captain America (Steve Rogers) 2. Jarvis (later, Friday) 3. Kamar-Taj 4. Loki 5. Scarlett Johansson