Winchester Gazette - September 2020

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Community Magazines

Winchester LOCAL DIRECTORY Easily ď€ nd local businesses & services COMMUNITY NEWS Deacon Hill - New Nature reserve for Winchester REGULAR FEATURES Quirky Facts about Hampshire WIN family tickets to Marwell Zoo

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Welcome to the

September edition of your local Winchester Gazette community magazine.

We do hope that you are all keeping fit and well. Here at My Local Gazettes Stephen, myself and the whole family in fact, managed to get away for a week. Daichi, the Dashing Dude our beloved campervan, took us to the serene Docklow Pools in Herefordshire, to give Grandad a well-earned rest. For anyone who loves fishing I highly recommend it. If you like peace and tranquillity it could be for you too!

Many of us have also had more time for the house and garden recently. Here in The Winchester Gazette our trades and services would love to help. Why not give them a ring to see how they can help you? Please don’t forget to mention us. Many years on and I still love to hear that you are backing up our local trades and services. It is very appreciated. Our community thrives on helping each other, especially in these times. If there are any trades you need and cannot find here please let me know. I may be able to help you. The index at the back gives you all the details of who is inside. If you have any local community data or photos you would like us to publish, we are very happy to receive them. Please email us at info@mlggazettes. co.uk Stephen and myself wish you a wonderful month of September.

Debbie, Stephen and all the Team at the Gazettes

Contact us Debbie: 01264 316499, e: debbie@mlggazettes.co.uk Emma: e: emma@mlggazettes.co.uk Website: www.mlggazettes.co.uk Like us on Facebook: @mlggazettesnews Follow us on Twitter: @mlggazettesnews

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What’s inside...

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Staff and relatives of Brendoncare Knightwood are taking to the skies

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Quirky Facts on Hampshire

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Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust: Deacon Hill A new nature reserve

10 Monthly Walk 16 Competition: Win tickets to Marwell Zoo 18 The Adventures of Daichi 22 Stargazing in Hampshire 24 On your plot: Herb gardens 26 A Ride on the Watercress Line To advertise your business call our sales team on 01264 316499.

Advertisers have the benefit of our free in-house design for their advertisements by a professional artwork and graphics team.

Clients or agencies supplying artwork or images should send JPGs or PDFs, 300 dpi minimum if actual size, or at a higher resolution if smaller than the size required.

COPY DATE FOR NEXT ISSUE 14th September 2020

Our magazines are printed in a factory that is FSC® & ISO 14001 certified. Sustainable and environmentally friendly printing is part of our ethos.

Using vegetable-based inks and recycling nearly 100% of our paper waste means you can be confident that this publication isn’t harming the planet.

MLG Magazines Ltd reserve the right to accept or reject any article or material supplied for publication or to edit such material prior to publication.

The opinions expressed or advice given in this publication are the views of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the publisher.

Every care is taken when compiling this magazine, however we cannot accept liability for misprints or mistakes. Dates and information quoted are believed correct at the time of going to press, but are subject to change and no responsibility can be taken for loss, damage or omission of material due to error.

It is the client’s responsibility to ensure they have permission to use any artwork which they supply to us or request for us to reproduce. Unless prior consent of the publisher is given, no part of this publication is to be reproduced.

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Community News 4

Staff and relatives of Brendoncare Knightwood are taking to the skies Brendoncare Knightwood’s staff and relatives are taking on a skydive to raise money for the care home in Chandler’s Ford, Hampshire.

A team of eight members of staff and their relatives is preparing for the challenge which is due to take place in early September in Salisbury.

Staff have been working relentlessly to care for residents during the coronavirus pandemic and are taking part in this challenge to raise funds towards a summer house for the gardens at Brendoncare Knightwood, where residents and their families can meet in a safe environment.

Leeanne Broyd, Activities Coordinator at Brendoncare Knightwood and skydive team organiser, said, “The current pandemic has highlighted how important it is for our residents to keep in contact with their family and friends. However, as they have been unable to see each other in person inside the building, we have been providing services online for them, such as video calls.

We continue to offer visits in our beautiful gardens.

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“We would like to help raise funds to help improve and expand the services that we can offer and continue this great work with our residents. Not only does this service help us support our residents, but it also helps to provide reassurance to friends and family who desperately miss seeing their loved ones.

“We are reaching out to the local community and businesses to help us raise £4000 to help us purchase a summer house for the gardens at Brendoncare Knightwood, where our residents can continue to meet with their families in a safe and warm environment.”

Brendoncare Knightwood offers residential, respite, end of life care in its 20 bedroom care home. There are also 30 close-care apartments and seven bungalows on the same site for independent living. Care at home is available to these residents, should it be needed to help remain living independently.

Further details about Brendoncare Knightwood can be found on the charity’s website www.brendoncare.org.uk or by telephoning 02380 247000.

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BY MICA BALE Although this year has been full of changes, many of us are enjoying our beautiful county of Hampshire in new ways or rediscovering the old delights the county has to offer. From a very special visit from comedy legends Laurel and Hardy themselves to an interesting brush with unusual royalty, here are another five facts from Hampshire’s heritage to delve into. Although this year has been full of changes, many of us are enjoying our beautiful county of Hampshire in new ways or rediscovering the old delights the county has to offer. From a very special visit from comedy legends Laurel and Hardy themselves to an interesting brush with unusual royalty, here are another five facts from Hampshire’s heritage to delve into.

Of all the comedy legends that have toured the world and won hearts over the silver screen, mention the name Laurel and Hardy and fans young and old will fondly remember their characteristically slapstick routines and often repeated phrases. Did you know however, that in 1947 Laurel and Hardy themselves were warmly welcomed to Southsea? For several nights the comedic duo performed to delighted Southsea locals and stayed at the Queen’s Hotel. Perhaps Laurel and Hardy even treated themselves to a stroll along the beautiful pier and enjoyed their very own taste of Hampshire’s coastline - and fish and chips of course!

Laurel & Hardy

Aside from setting sail from Hampshire on her ill-fated maiden voyage, did you know that it was in Emery Down that the Titanic's captain, Edward Smith, reportedly spent his last evening on land before beginning, what was at the time, one of the most disastrous events in history? He stayed at the New Forest Inn, previously named the New Inn, in the picturesque village of Emery Down no doubt the captain enjoyed a drink or two before retiring for the night. Sadly, little did he know then what tragedies lay ahead.

It would be hard to deny that King Henry VIII had a fondness for Hampshire. The great Tudor monarch loved to exude power and his navy was his pride and joy. In fact, the very heart of his navy had deep roots in the county and the king built strongholds all around to protect it at all costs. one such stronghold was Hurst Castle. An impressive structure in itself, another interesting fact is that the castle was involved in many of the country's most historic events, including the imprisonment of King Charles I, and continued to be in use as late as both world wars.

Hampshire has been home to further 'royalty' than the recognised British monarchy? Although not born in the county, Eliza James became known as the Queen of Watercress in the early 1900s when she began her watercress growing business. Although the ancient art of watercress growing was not new to the county, this queen’s business thrived and soon she supplied to all outlets from shops and markets to hotels and restaurants until she had become so popular that everyone in London sought her watercress. Amazingly, despite a tragic life in which she survived murder attempts at the hands of her husband, Eliza James’ watercress business became the largest in Europe and she became forever remembered as the Watercress Queen!

Did you know that Hampshire is home to be what is considered by tree experts as one of the most important trees in the entire country? Although Hampshire boasts many impressive natural gems, Farringdon Yew Tree dates back at least three thousand years and as well as being a beautiful insight into Hampshire's natural history, it has fired and inspired many of the literary minds that flock to the county!"

Wildlife News

Deacon Hill – a new nature reserve for Winchester Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is delighted to add another site to the network of nature reserves and wildlife areas it owns and manages around Winchester. Deacon Hill was secured thanks to gifts in the Wills of two local women, Heather Monie and Shirley Bull, and over 1,600 donations from individuals, local companies and organisations, as well as grants from Hampshire County Council, the Calleva Foundation and South Downs National Park Authority.

Deacon Hill is a 10 hectare patchwork of scrub and chalk grassland in the South Downs National Park. The nature reserve perches at the highest point of the chalk scarp (a steep chalk slope) to the east of the city, overlooking the Chilcomb Valley. Over half of the world’s chalk grassland is found in the UK, and a significant amount sits right on our doorstep in Winchester.

Chalk grassland is widely regarded as one of the richest habitats in Europe, but it is under threat from damaging agricultural practices and invasive scrub, so the Trust is delighted to be able to protect this site into the future.

Deacon Hill is particularly noted for its population of Duke of Burgundy butterflies. These fabulous little butterflies have declined drastically in recent decades, so the opportunity to protect one of their last remaining strongholds was too good to miss.

there. The Trust’s ecology team has begun the baseline surveys needed to help determine future work, with the first bird surveys clocking up 21 species, including blackcap, whitethroat, yellowhammer and green woodpecker.

Duke of Burgundy butterfly eggs were found across the site, and lots of adult butterflies have been spotted on the wing. During their visits, the team also came across flora such as broomrape, common spotted and pyramidal orchids, and many insects including bees, butterflies and common green grasshoppers.

If you are one of the many who donated to the recent appeal to buy Deacon Hill Nature Reserve, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust would like to say thank you. Thanks to your support, the Trust successfully managed to realise a long-held ambition to own and manage this wonderful piece of land.

A true investment in a wilder future for Winchester residents, both human and wildlife!

Deacon Hill

Photo: Carmen Green

Since the purchase was completed back at the beginning of May, work has started on the site to improve the habitats for the wildlife that lives

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Chilworth & Knightwood

Walking

This month’s walk targets the Southern end of the Test Valley, starting is it does from The Chilworth Arms, Chilworth Road, SO16 7JS, where you can park at the front or rear of the building.

This 4.5 mile walk captures most of the elements of an interesting outing, so apart from the final mile (which can be challenging in the rainy season), the entire journey provides good underfoot conditions and should take the regular walker between 90 and 100 minutes. Setting off from the car park (front or rear), we need to cross the busy road (A27), taking great care as we start down Woodside. This road drops down fairly steadily, then tapers down to a gravel track until we meet a footpath junction.

At this point we aim straight ahead, making due note that on our return we will pick up the path once again at that crossing. The views across the surrounding farmland are wonderful and the path beside it offers a fairly easy time as we head steadily downhill for around 800 metres before reaching Castle Lane. This is another fast flowing road, which we must cross as we turn right for a mere 100 metres where we now turn left, following the footpath arrow sign. Once upon a time this mostly tarmac path probably served as a byeway between farms, but now there is a full kilometre of calm – woodland to the left and houses behind a copse over to the right. At one point the path takes a decided turn then starts to convert to more gravel, before meeting our next turn to the right, following the sign to Zionshill Copse. This is a well signposted path and the only formal turn off the trail, which takes us for another 600 metres up to the Knightwood Area, pass through a gate and swing right across the road for 200 metres as far as the Leisure Centre

We turn into Knightwood Leisure Centre and walk on down as far as the car park, where we turn right along the edge of the Centre itself. We emerge actually on Knightwood Road, cross that (carefully of course) and aim directly down the path opposite. This wiggles it’s way past a school and then The Cleveland Bay pub on the left, which is where that stays as we turn left along the pavement as far as the pub car park entrance only. Bang opposite that point is a marked footpath with a blue arrow sending us away through back paths of Chandlers Ford.

The next section is effectively a straight path (beware of a narrow right hand option at the beginning) – heading on past a large woodland on the left. A circular trip round there, always pleasant, will add on at least 800 metres if you have the time and energy, but once returning to the original path however, we meet and cross another busy road (leading through to Chandlers Ford Industrial Estate), then proceed up the slope, veer right and cross a local estate road. From here it is a case of ‘follow your nose’ taking the path direct up through houses and leisure areas, before finally walking beside Templars Business Park and making an appearance on Bournemouth Road

almost opposite Asda Store. At this point we take the right hand path with a climb uphill, across another busy road by the junction (leading into the Asda Roundabout), followed by a slightly tedious stretch that mirrors the compound surrounding Asda (over to the left) for around 300 metres before turning in right at the sign for Velmore Farm.

The footpath sign here fell into the undergrowth some time ago, but never fear this is the next phase of the journey home! There follows a gentle downhill section followed by a stroll past the farm and outbuildings, before commencing a climb where the path tapers and in really wet weather can become challenging as it is a trifle rutted. With our journey almost complete however once on top of this path we are back at the T junction that marked the early part of this walk some time ago. All that remains now is to turn left up the hill again (Woodside) and past several beautiful houses and gardens before arriving in site of The Chilworth Arms just across Chilworth Road and the completion of another walk well done; with time for refreshment and rest.

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Boris says “build, build, build”. Will this lead to an increase in demand for development land? Is your land suitable for development and what will you do if a developer calls?

Landowners frequently receive speculative approaches from developers and land promoters inviting them to enter in to binding legal agreements for development of their land. The terminology can be baffling, but rather than throwing these letters in the bin, or worse, signing on the dotted line, take time to consider what is on offer and get professional advice.

Before you sign on the dotted line, always check: • If you have land which is capable of development, always seek advice from a valuer and from a solicitor before signing up with a developer. Often the developer will contribute to the landowner’s costs.

• Make sure you understand the true value of your land; joined with your neighbours’ land, your land may be more valuable or have strategic importance to a developer.

• Consult your accountant or tax adviser to check any family property ownership is in the right names and properly structured in order to maximise tax efficiency.

If you are a landowner selling land for potential development, there are a variety of different ways in which to structure the arrangements: Unconditional Contract – this is the most certain arrangement from a landowner’s perspective. The landowner agrees to sell the land to the developer with completion of the sale occurring on an agreed date for an agreed price and without any pre-conditions or other pre-requisites imposed.

Conditional Contract – this gives more flexibility to the developer and less certainty to the landowner. The contract for sale and purchase is conditional on certain preconditions, most usually the grant of satisfactory planning permission for development of the land in question. The contract will attempt to define the pre-conditio

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ns in sufficient detail so that it is clear when the pre-conditions have been satisfied and completion is triggered. The price is often framed in terms of general principles and may be linked for example to the number of residential units (i.e. houses or flats) for which planning permission is actually obtained.

Option Agreement – this gives even more flexibility to the developer. The agreement provides that the developer may call for the landowner to sell the land to the developer at any time within a set period of time (typically between 18 months to 5 years). This is to allow the developer time to obtain planning permission but the option need not require this. There is less certainty from the landowner’s perspective, because the developer may choose, at its discretion, whether or not to call for the land to be sold to it.

Again, price is often framed in general terms and may be limited to success at planning, but usually requires the landowner to agree to reimburse the developer for aspects of the costs in obtaining planning permission.

Promotion Agreement – becoming more popular, these types of agreements work as a collaboration between the landowner and a promoter (who is often a developer in their own right) to promote land for development.

The landowner and the promoter work together to agree a planning strategy for the land to achieve allocation for residential development and then secure planning permission. The parties will then agree a sales strategy to market the land, with the new planning permission, on the open market so as to secure the best price. The landowner will usually reimburse the promoter for the costs incurred in securing planning permission, marketing and selling the land and the promoter receives an agreed fee.

At Godwins, our Commercial Property Team would be happy to guide you through the legal aspects of the development process for your land.

Contact Annabel Evans or Bekki Pritchard for an initial chat: Annabel.Evans@godwins-law.co.uk Bekki.Pritchard@godwins-law.co.uk

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Adventures of Daichi

The Adventures of Daichi We really love a good success story and last month Daichi the Dashing Dude, dashed us to a very special place in Herefordshire. Nestled in an idyllic rural setting are the fishing lakes of Docklow Pools. My Dad has been a keen freshwater fisherman all his life. Many good weekends were spent by ponds and rivers up in East Yorkshire. I loved them. Today, Dad is my Mum’s carer. Mum suffers badly with dementia and Dad managed the whole of lockdown on his own. This was his treat. Daichi was delighted to whisk us all away to one of Dad’s favourite fishing retreats, Docklow.

Herefordshire is a county enveloped in rolling English countryside, so the setting of these ponds is simply stunning. The owners Mike and Josie, wonderful people, bought the 100 acres of luscious greenery, and at the time derelict farm, in 1972. We were lucky enough to speak with them and Josie smiled about having to milk cows at the age of 24 while Mike, age 27, who was a tool maker in those days, continued his work in Birmingham at the car factory. No previous experience of farming of course! It was a struggle to say the least. Hard work and determination, but they had a vision… at least Mike did! Now the grounds contain twelve different lakes, a wooded walk, a 9-hole golf course, The Fisherman’s Arms pub with café open to anyone, self-catering accommodation as well as Bed and Breakfast,

The fishermen in action...

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Daichi meets Mike & Josie a well-stocked tackle shop and even a Roman Garden! Picturesque. Josie realised early on that she had to earn some money, so they opened up the house to B & B and charged £1 per night. This meant they could now have a yearly holiday… which they spent in Bournemouth with their two sons Jonathan and Simon! Mike may regret not being there more for the family when they were young, due to the necessity to pay off that mortgage, but between himself and his young bride, they have created a true haven for their sons and now their grandchildren.

My sister, Sue and her husband Gary, had driven all the way to Hull to help Dad get the car packed. They arrived soon after we did. It was a full family affair and Daichi was beaming. He was stationed proudly next to our two-bedroom lodge, overlooking the Match Pool. Beautiful. I had called the receptionist at the very first hint of the Pools reopening after Lockdown and was lucky enough to get three lodges together.

Perfectly located. Sue, myself and Mum could read a magazine by the accommodation whilst watching the men fishing. Hayden, our son, has been taught by his Grandad from the very early age of two and has a ‘knack’ for catching fish.

From the start he was hooking good size carp, Ide and Bream. Grandad was in his element. He has fished this pond in real matches, against some very tough opponents, but today was a leisurely affair. Though Hayden was giving him

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a run for his money! Stephen enjoyed it too and also caught some good fish!

Family meals outside overlooking the gorgeous fields, next to the Roman Garden were delightful. Keeping to the same places helps Mum and this was no sacrifice to do here! The food was delicious. Well cooked with great choices. It was sometimes difficult to decide what to have! The staff were extremely friendly.

The weather was good despite all the threats of rain. We were very lucky.

Dad had always wanted to fish the Tench Pool, so that was a must. Off we went. All the fishing gear and chairs in hand. This pool is covered in groups of floating, delightful lilies. Wonderfully peaceful. It did rain that day, but for only an hour and we had fun sitting under the umbrellas taking in the sweet smell of fresh grass and water. Hayden and Dad caught many tench!

Mike, the owner, had always wanted a tench pool he told me, so this was a more recent addition. He was delighted to see them winning.

At one point all went quiet. Hayden, used to catching almost immediately, was looking a little restless. Now not quite the excitement of a computer game and fast action, Grandad came to the rescue to show him how to calmly entice the fish back. Patience is a virtue and is a good lesson for a youngster. Hayden was as pleased as punch when he started catching again. They were all smiles. Especially Grandad.

In all the men must have caught well over 60 fish.

Mirror Carp, Common Carp, Skimmers, Bream, Roach, Ide, Perch, Barbel and the all-important

We love family holidays together

Catch of the Day! Tench! I remember at the sweet old age of 7 when we were in Ireland fishing (of course). One day on a river, I took Dad’s rather long, heavy reel rod (the pole rods these days are much easier) for just a little while. I struck… and would I let Dad help me land that fish? Of course not!

It was mine. Such a delight to bring that tench in and boy was I proud! I can relive that pleasure moment again and again. I know Dad does too.

It wasn’t all fishing this trip. We visited Leominster and did some antique shopping. We walked around the historic market town of Ludlow, in Shropshire not far away, with its ancient Medieval Castle. I bought some garden items (it just has to be done) at the Bringsty Vintage Café and Antiques, which Dad loves. What a glorious part of England, bordering the Welsh Marshes.

You don’t have to be a fisherman to visit Docklow. The walks, the golf, the pub and the views are for everyone. Jonathan who I booked with, would be delighted to hear from you. He and my Dad, over a beer or two, have spent many a time talking about the ‘one that got away’. The whole family must be very proud of their creation. We are very glad they persisted and we intend to visit again next year! You can see their website at www.docklowpools.com Daichi was utterly over the moon with the trip.

Even the massive lightning storm we witnessed in the distance one night! Where will he take us next month I wonder…?

By Debbie Corney

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We can book services for your wheelchair/scooter/powerchair at reasonable prices and if your product requires any repairs or parts, we will let you know the overall cost beforehand. We arrange a day and time suitable to you and even come to your home so there is no waiting around.

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We keep a varied range of 4-6-8mph scooters in stock, from pre-owned to the latest models. Whether it’s a boot scooter, folding or to use solely on the road, our prices suit every budget and we can also offer interest free finance. *These items require a suitability test first and also qualify for a free home assessment

*Powered Wheelchairs

For the more high end user, we can provide a wide range of indoor/outdoor powered wheelchairs with multiple functions, these will also have prescriptive seating options and cushion/fabric types made especially to fit the customer to ensure it will suit their daily needs perfectly. *These items require a suitability test first and also qualify for a free home assessment

*Wheelchairs

We have a selection of everyday/occasional use wheelchairs at our shop which are lightweight and small enough to fit easily into a car boot and can also carry out assessments for bespoke wheelchairs for heavy continuous use which will be totally tailored to the customers’ requirements. *These items require a suitability test first and also qualify for a free home assessment

*Rise and Recliners

We have demo Rise and Recline chairs in our shop to try for size which can be ordered in with either a single or a dual motor function (the back rest and footrest can be operated separately).

These can be completely made to measure and available in a wide range of fabrics to suit your existing home furniture and personal needs. *These items require a suitability test first and also qualify for a free home assessment

5 Swan Court, East Street, Andover, Hants. SP10 1EZ E: info@dfmobility.co.uk T: 01264

748120

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21

WRITTENBY BYKATE KATEEARL EARL WRITTEN

STAR GAZING Welcome to to the the September September Stargazing Stargazing Page.

Page. Each Each month month I’ll I’ll be be describing describing Welcome astronomical events events that that are are happening happening overhead overhead in in our our beau beau ful ful night night skies. skies. The The astronomical majority of of events events are are viewable viewable just just by by stepping stepping outside outside on on aa cloudless cloudless night night and and majority lookingup, up,but butsome somemay mayrequire requireaapar par cular cularvantage vantagepoint pointe.g. e.g.aaclear clearview viewto tothe the looking west.

Occasionally, viewings will benefit from the use of binoculars or a small west. Occasionally, viewings will benefit from the use of binoculars or a small telescopeififavailable, available,but butall allcan canbe beenjoyed enjoyedwithout withouteither. either. telescope International Space Space Station Station International The International Space Station (ISS) (ISS) isis usually usually visible visible at at some some point point The International Space Station during the the night, night, and and throughout throughout September September there there are are aa number number of of good good during opportunities to to spot spot it. it. At At around around 9.15p.m.

9.15p.m. on on the the 17th, 17th, 19th 19th and and 21st, 21st, opportunities the ISS will be visible rising in the southwest.

Then around the same time the ISS will be visible rising in the southwest. Then around the same time on the the 23rd, 23rd, 25th, 25th, 27th 27th and and 29th 29th the the rising rising point point changes changes to to the the west. west. on Please note note timings timings are are subject subject to to change, change, therefore therefore II recommend recommend visiting visiting Please www.heavens-above.com for up-to-date information, remembering to set set www.heavens-above.com for up-to-date information, remembering to the location location to to Bournemouth.

Bournemouth. the Events Events The Autumn Autumn Equinox Equinox occurs occurs just just after after 2.30p.m.

2.30p.m. on on 22nd 22nd September.

September. The The The term equinox equinox isis derived derived from from the the Latin Latin for for ‘equal ‘equal night’, night’, and and itit isis around around term this time of year that daytime and night time are of equal length, no this time of year that daytime and night time are of equal length, no matter where where you you are are on on Earth.

Earth. September September 5th 5th marks marks the the 43rd 43rd matter anniversary of of the the launch launch of of Voyager Voyager 1.

1. Its Its main main objective objective was was to to study study anniversary and photograph Jupiter, Saturn and Saturn’s moon, Titan.

However, and photograph Jupiter, Saturn and Saturn’s moon, Titan. However, itit didn’t stop stop there, there, and and today today the the probe probe isis now now the the most most distant distant man-made man-made didn’t object from from Earth.

Earth. ItIt isis still still communicating communicating with with NASA NASA even even though though itit isis aa object staggering 14,000,000,000 miles from home, and all being well will staggering 14,000,000,000 miles from home, and all being well itit will continue to to relay relay data data until until 2025 2025 when when itit will will run run out out of of power. power. continue Mercury Mercury The closest closest planet planet to to the the Sun Sun isis hidden hidden in in its its glare glare this this month. month.

The Venus Venus Best seen seen around around 5a.m.

5a.m. before before the the sun sun rises, rises, Venus Venus isis dazzling dazzling brightly brightly in in Best the east. east. AA waning waning crescent crescent Moon Moon joins joins Venus Venus on on 14th 14th September September to to the provide a beautiful view for the early risers. provide a beautiful view for the early risers.

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Mars Mars The red red planet planet isis rising rising around around 8.30p.m.

8.30p.m. and and isis visible visible high high in in the the south south The throughout the the night. night. Mars Mars will will be be best best placed placed to to view view in in October.

October. throughout Saturn & & Jupiter Jupiter Saturn It’s not not too too late late to to track track down down the the two two gas gas giants, giants, Jupiter Jupiter and and Saturn.

Saturn.

It’s Located low low towards towards the the south, south, both both planets planets benefit benefit from from being being viewed viewed Located through aa good good pair pair of of (steady) (steady) binoculars binoculars or or aa small small telescope, telescope, and and the the through pair are joined by the Moon on 25th September to make a pleasing pair are joined by the Moon on 25th September to make a pleasing triangle (see (see figure). figure). As As mentioned mentioned in in last last month’s month’s Stargazing Stargazing Page, Page, triangle summer through through to to winter winter isis aa great great time time to to spot spot the the ‘Summer ‘Summer Triangle’ Triangle’ summer asterism.

An asterism is a group of stars which make a recognisable asterism. An asterism is a group of stars which make a recognisable shape or or pattern pattern but but do do not not form form an an official official constellation, constellation, such such as as the the shape Plough, which which isis actually actually part part of of the the large large constellation constellation Ursa Ursa Major Major (The (The Plough, Great Bear).

The Summer Triangle asterism consists of the three Great Bear). The Summer Triangle asterism consists of the three brightest stars stars from from three three differing differing constellations constellations –– Deneb Deneb in in Cygnus Cygnus the the brightest Swan, Altair Altair in in Aquila Aquila the the Eagle, Eagle, and and Vega Vega in in Lyra Lyra the the Harp Harp (Interesting (Interesting Swan, fact: In 12,000 years Vega will be our Pole Star).

Under dark skies away away fact: In 12,000 years Vega will be our Pole Star). Under dark skies from light light pollution, pollution, there there isis aa great great opportunity opportunity to to see see the the central central band band from of our our Milky Milky Way Way galaxy, galaxy, which which runs runs straight straight through through the the centre centre of of the the of Summer Triangle (see figure).

A pair of binoculars trained on this part of Summer Triangle (see figure). A pair of binoculars trained on this part of the sky sky will will highlight highlight the the numerous numerous star star clusters clusters and and fuzzy fuzzy patches patches of of the nebulosity found found along along the the galactic galactic plane. plane. nebulosity Moon Moon This month’s month’s full full moon moon on on 2nd 2nd September September isis traditionally traditionally known known as as the the This Full Corn Moon to some Native American tribes, as it coincides with the Full Corn Moon to some Native American tribes, as it coincides with the time of of year year when when itit isis time time to to harvest harvest corn. corn. September’s September’s full full moon moon also also time goes by by the the names names Barley Barley Moon, Moon, Leaf Leaf Moon Moon and and “When “When the the deer deer paw paw the the goes earth” Moon, most notably by the Omaha Peoples. earth” Moon, most notably by the Omaha Peoples.

Deneb Deneb Saturn Saturn

Jupiter Jupiter

Moon Moon

Altair Altair Saturn Saturn

View SS on on 25 25 September September at at 9pm 9pm View

Vega Vega Summer Summer Triangle Triangle Asterism Asterism Plane of Milky Plane of Milky Way Galaxy Way Galaxy

Jupiter Jupiter

View S throughout September View S throughout September @9pm @9pm

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23

Gardening Tips

On Your Plot Herb Gardens

Nature tends to dictate what we do in the garden and sometimes it’s just too late to plant those seeds, too early to prune that bush and incredibly you are already on top of the weeding.

So what can you do to fulfil that urge to work the land? Why start a herb garden of course!

Jobs for September :-

• If you are growing pumpkins for Halloween, you need to support the fruit as it swells and raise it up to keep it off the wet ground and deter slugs.

Restrict each plant to no more than three fruits.

• Clear up finished crops, clean and store any supports or netting for future use.

• Keep planting winter lettuces for a supply of fresh leaves right through autumn.

• Fancy fresh strawberries next year? Now is a good time to get new plants established.

• Add support to Brussels sprouts by drawing up earth around the stems, or using canes.

Most activity on your plot is tied to the seasons, but this month we take a look at one project that can be started off at almost any time of the year - your own herb garden.

As we’ve taken to growing more and more of our own food so we have found ourselves getting increasingly interested in trying out new recipes to make the most of all those lovely fresh flavours.

Recipe books abound in our kitchen and they all have one thing in common - the use of herbs, and what a variety of them there is!

Whether you’re looking for a sprig of fresh mint, a handful of rosemary, or some chopped chives what could be better than being able to choose and harvest them right outside your own back door?

Choosing the right site for your herb garden is important, and outside your back door is often a good place to start! Planting near the kitchen makes it easy to pop out for a few fresh leaves when you are cooking, and many of us have a patio which can easily become home to a variety of container grown herbs. Herbs can make an

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attractive, fragrant and tasty addition to your borders, or you may prefer to opt for a permanent herb bed. If this is the case you will need to give some consideration to containing the growth of some of the more vigorous varieties. This can be done by dividing the bed (a cartwheel design made with bricks is very attractive), or by using pots sunk into the ground.

Herbs comprise of both annual plants, that germinate, grow, flower and die within the year, and perennials that will grow on from one year to the next. Whatever you plant, you will need to find out which type it is and the conditions that it favours. The more hardy perennial types such as thyme, rosemary or mint may be happy outside all year round. One of the advantages of using containers is that tender varieties can be moved under cover during the worst of the winter and even tender annuals like basil can have their season extended by lifting plants to pot up and keep on the kitchen windowsill as autumn approaches.

Most types of herb can be raised from seed, but for a quicker start browse the farmers market, garden centre, or even car boot sales for plants that are ready to go.

One of the great things about a herb garden is that it can be continually evolving. Look upon it as just the start of a collection, that will grow with time. Adding a new variety can be as simple as picking up a plant that takes your fancy on a trip out and adding a new pot to your collection.

As well as using herbs fresh from the garden, you can dry leaves by hanging in bunches and then storing in an airtight container, or use ice cube trays to freeze chopped up leaves with a drop of water. Store the cubes in polythene bags, great for adding to a stew in the middle of winter!

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25

Community News 26

A Ride on the Watercress Line It was one of the hottest days of the year when we embarked on a trip on the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line. The sun was shining and the train looked wonderful as it sat in Alresford Station.

The Watercress Line runs from Alresford through Ropley and Medstead & Four Marks before arriving at Alton. The Mid Hants Railway began its life in 1865 and it was intended to connect the existing lines between Alton and Winchester to provide an alternative route between London and Southampton.

The 17 mile long line was used to transport locally produced watercress and this is how it got its name. It was also important during both World Wars for transporting military traffic between Aldershot and Southampton. The line closed in 1973 and was reopened as a heritage line run by volunteers in May 1977 running from Alresford to Ropley.

The restoration of the line continued with the opening of the line to Medstead & Four Marks in 1983 and the final section to Alton opening in 1985. Medstead & Four Marks is currently the highest operational standard gauge railway station in Southern England at 644ft above sea level.

Travelling along the Watercress Line you really feel like you have gone back in time.

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As you hear the whistle from the steam engine and feel the gentle rocking of the coach you really are transported back to much simpler times and you can escape the hectic world we live in for a couple of hours.

At Ropley station there is the bridge that was used in the Harry Potter film ‘The Philosophers Stone’ when Hagrid first gives Harry a ticket on the Hogwarts Express. It was moved to Ropley from Kings Cross Station in London in 2008.

You can also view the steam engines being repaired and renovated, or you can just sit and have a picnic underneath the trees and admire the train.

The buffet building at Alresford Station came from Lyme Regis Station and is aptly named The West Country Buffet.

The whole watercress line is steeped in history and has been extremely well preserved right down to the old fashioned posters on the platforms. A trip on The Watercress Line is a must for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

However you don’t need to be either of those to enjoy a really lovely day out.

Highly recommended.

By Julie Sharp For more information or to book tickets visit: www.watercressline.co.uk

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27

OUR TREATMENTS: • McTimoney Chiropractic • Podiatry • Allergy Testing • Sports Therapy • Homeopathy • Counselling • Nutrition

01264 324924

Chiros Clinic has close links to Andover Osteopathy, for more information contact Mark on 01264 580280

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The Chiros Health Clinic, 36 East Street, Andover, Hants SP10 1ES

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Andov 01264 337711

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29

Index of advertisers

Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Directory...

Bathrooms Ocean Bathrooms................................. 20 Blinds & Curtains Hampshire Blinds & Curtains................ 29 Cameras Rocky Rock Cameras............................. 20 Carpenters & Joinery Howdens Joinery.................................. 5 Input Joinery......................................... 32 Tucker Joinery....................................... 25 Chiropractors Chiros Clinic.......................................... 28 Community News A Ride on the Watercress Line.............. 26 Competition: Win tickets to Marwell.... 16 Staff and relatives of Brendoncare Knightwood take to the skies............. 4 Deacon Hill - a new nature reserve for Winchester................................... 8 Cycle Shops Re-Cycling Bikes.................................... 25 Driveways County Block Paving............................. 12 Hampshire Resin Driveways................. 15 Features Monthly Walk....................................... 10 On Your Plot: Herb gardens.................. 24 Quirky Facts on Hampshire................... 6 Stargazing in Hampshire...................... 22 The Adventures of Daichi...................... 18 30

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Garage Doors Fix My Garage Door............................. 28 Garolla.................................................. 27 Skandoor............................................... 9 Garden Services Barker & Geary..................................... 27 Wayne & Sons...................................... 9 Jewellers David Mellor......................................... 29 Mobility Products & Services DF Mobility........................................... 21 Hampshire Mobility Services................ 28 Pawnbrokers Ewe Cash.............................................. 13 Plumbers No1 PHD............................................... 31 Property Maintenance NDI Property Services........................... 29 Roofing Services CPS Roofing & Property Maintenance.... 12 Roof Right............................................. 20 Solicitors CGM Solicitors...................................... 5 Godwins Solicitors................................ 15 Windows, Doors & Conservatories GS Windows......................................... 3 Outlook Windows................................. 17 @mlggazettesnews

CALL 01962 707183 To advertise, please call 01264 316499 or email enquiries@mlggazettes.co.uk

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Input Joinery - Portrait ad 2015 - outlined.indd 1

04/11/2015 09:18

@mlggazettesnews The www.mlggazettes.co.uk Winchester Gazette • www.mlggazettes.co.uk