Solent East Nov-Dec 2011

Issue 37 | November/December 2011

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The really useful local magazine for families with children 0 - 12 years www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

MAGAZINE

Solent East Your guide to

What’s On

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Do’s & Don’ts for a happy family

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Families Welcome

Welcome …..to the November/December issue of Families Solent East!

Like it or not, Christmas is just around the corner (I may still be practising denial for a good few weeks yet!).

No doubt we are in for a cold cold winter as repayment for an unusually lovely October, so wrap yourselves up really warm and get out to see your local Christmas lights being switched on (details on page 4) or get into the festive mood at one of the many events going on in Hampshire and West Sussex.

A big thank you to all our contributors, advertisers and readers for your continued support in 2011.

I hope you all keep well and warm and get to spend some lovely family time together this Christmas.

See you in 2012!

contents 4

Local News Local informaton, events and services

6

Baby go to Sleep!

Top tips to encourage your baby to sleep

8

Win Win Win! prizes worth over 1K!!

Mandy Earle Editor

9

Love your Body Why are woman so self

Solent East

Covering: Portsmouth, Southsea, Fareham, Gosport, Portchester, Waterlooville, Havant, Hayling Island, Wickham, Chichester, Isle of Wight and all the places in between.

critical?

On the h cover - George

Next issue: January/February 2012 Editorial and booking deadline 5nd December 2011

10 Christmas feature Keep your sanity this

To advertise in Families Solent East:

Christmas with these do’s

Call 02392 362737 or email ads@familiessolenteast.co.uk

and don’ts!

Printed by Holbrooks Printers: Call 023 9266 1485, www.holbrooks.com Editor: Mandy Earle editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk Families Solent East online: www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

12 What’s On Local events for November

Next advertising deadline: Mon 5th December Tel: 02392 362737 Email: ads@familiessolenteast.co.uk

and December

15 Classifieds

Follow FSE..

Copyright: Families Solent East 2011.

Data Protection: If you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition offering prizes in Families Solent East, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so, please state this clearly on your entry.

Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners’ own risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent East nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Group: Families Solent East is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.

November/December Families Solent East 3

Families Local

News

School of Rock!

Switch Ons Spend an afternoon at your local precinct getting in the festive spirit and watching the Christmas lights going on! Most of these events include various family activities and entertainment, children’s rides and a fireworks finale!

SOUTHSEA PALMESTON ROAD

GOSPORT HIGH STREET

Thursday 10th November 4 - 6pm

Saturday 26th November 2:30 – 5pm

Fireworks and fairy lights PORTSMOUTH COMMERCIAL ROAD Thursday 17th November 3.30 - 7pm

CHICHESTER CITY CROSS Saturday 26th November lights on 6pm

Festive activities all day

WINCHESTER THE GUILDHALL

HAYLING ISLAND MENGHAM

Thursday 17th November 3 – 6pm

Fri 2nd December 4 - 5pm

GUNWHARF QUAYS

EMSWORTH HIGH STREET

Saturday 19th November 5:30 – 7pm

With Wave 105

Fri 2nd December from 4pm

FAREHAM WEST STREET

LEIGH PARK 58 GREYWELL

Sunday 20th November Lights on at 4:30pm

All day activities

Fri 2nd December 11am - 4:15pm daily

Santas Grotto opening

COSHAM HIGH STREET Wednesday 23rd November 4 – 6pm

SOUTHSEA ALBERT ROAD

Saturday 3rd December 4 - 6pm

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4 Families Solent East November/December 2011

M i stars off the Music h ffuture could ld get on the h ffast trackk to stardom d with a local rock school. Local mum, Dawn Hamblet is bringing two new Clive’s Easy Learn Rock & Pop schools to the Locks Heath and Whiteley areas. These are music classes that kids love - teaching guitar, bass, drums, keyboards and vocals.

Dawn says ‘the way we teach music is really different to the way it is often taught, where you have a lesson and then go away and practice on your own in the bedroom. In our classes students work through structured modules with their tutor for 45 minutes and each class ends with a 15 minute jam session, so they get to practice their skills in a live band from the start.’

This is a great way to get youngsters between 7 & 17 socialising and learning together in a fun friendly environment.

They also put on a concert every six months in which all the students can play, raising money for charity in the process.

The lessons have been running elsewhere in the country and have successfully taught over 10,000 people to play.

Dawn runs free taster sessions so you can try before you commit.

For further details see www.clivesmusic.com and click on Whiteley or Southampton East

A Vision of Christmas...

This Christmas Vision Photography have some fun packed plans to capture beautiful photos of your children for you exactly as they should be - happy and natural.

Chocolate Days and Messy Days that your children will love, as well as other special events and packages for Christmas - Their Funky Vision Box is packed full of great gifts which your family will love as presents.

Phone Vision on 02392 620140

for more info on these events or just for a chat, you will always get a warm welcome from Jason and his wife Zoe! Join their Facebook page for up to date information on special events Search for Vision Photography Portsmouth in Groups

Heritage Lottery fund for

NEWS

in brief...

New outdoor gym opens in Leigh Park

A new outdoor gym costing over £30,000 is open to public use at St Clare’s Park in Warren Park as part of a scheme to support a healthier lifestyle. The gym equipment includes two space walkers, two skiers, triple pull-ups, a pull down exerciser, leg press, chest press and a body twister as well as rectangular concrete structures which can be used as step– up boxes. The gym will be open 365 days a year.

Portchester Library begins community classes

Join in classes on healthy eating and sewing on Wednesdays, with further plans for reading groups and various craft workshops to start soon. For more information or to discuss possible classes call 0845 6035631.

QE Country Park one of the best!

The New Theatre Royal has been awarded a grant of £939,900 by the Heritage Lottery Fund in support of exciting regeneration and development plans for the back-lot of the Theatre in collaboration with the University of Portsmouth. The funding has been granted specifically for the repair and restoration of the Grade II* listed historic building, including restoration of the stage house, orchestra pit, offices, access facilities and a new Creative Learning Centre, for use by local groups and organisations. It represents a significant proportion of the money needed and will ensure that this forty-year project, which began after the fire in 1972 will at last come to fruition, with the volunteers seeing their long-held ambition fulfilled. The money will also allow the Theatre to expand volunteer opportunities, so even more people of all ages can get involved. This will include a four year scheme of exciting activities - including the New Theatre Royal ‘On Tour’ during the rebuild – which will increase the Theatre’s seating capacity to 695, so that West End shows can be hosted in the city. Stuart McLeod, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund for the South East said: “This is great news for the New Theatre Royal, its volunteers and the people of Portsmouth. This wonderful historic building is one of the city’s greatest cultural and architectural assets, and now it can be developed and put to use for the benefit of the local community and beyond in understanding our fascinating theatrical heritage.”

Queen Elizabeth Country Park near Horndean has been voted 5th in the UK’s top 10 favourite parks in the annual People’s Choice Award public poll, receiving hundreds of votes from local residents and visitors. Queen Elizabeth Country Park is Hampshire’s largest park with 2,000 acres of woodland and downland.

Hayling Island opens Community Shop

Members of Hayling Island Lions Club have taken over the store previously occupied by Cancer Research in Elm Grove. Staffed by volunteers, funds raised through the shop will assist the Hayling Island Lions to expand their work supporting the local community.

Rooksbury Park School Closes

Sadly after many year of financial struggle Rookesbury Park School in Fareham has closed, in spite of the fact that this year saw a glowing ISI inspection under a new Headmaster.

Rookesbury Park is now operating as a functions venue.

Contact Heather Aitkenhead on 01329 833108 for details.

Shelter outreach sessions in Portsmouth

The national charity Shelter is now running outreach sessions from Buckland SureStart in Turner Road every Monday & Thursday morning. Their Housing Specialists can assist with homelessness, home payment arrears, eviction, repossession, renting and leashold repairs, neighbourhood issues and advice for young people. Appointments with an advisor must be booked in advance on 0344 5151400.

Looking for flexible work to fit around your children?

We have the perfect solution for parents who want to earn around their family. Fully exible hours, no experience necessary, full training provided, work entirely from home with part time earnings from £100+ per week.

Further career opportunities for ambitious individuals Contact Lorna for an informal chat on 02392 987527 Visit www.iwanttochangemylifestyle.co.uk/696188

You CAN be there to see your children grow up!

CGI of development plans for The New Theatre Royal

Spread the Word!

If you know of a nursery, school or local business that would like to recieve FREE copies of Families Solent East please get in touch and we will bring some round!

November/December Families Solent East 5

Families Childcare

Baby go to sleep...please!

PORTSDOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL

NURSERY

It’s the first question new mums ask – ‘‘how can I get my baby to sleep? The moment I put him down, he just howls!” We have all, at some time or other, rocked our baby to sleep, pushed them up and down the hall, put them in the pram and pounded the pavements to get them to sleep. But it doesn’t have to be like this. Here are our top tips to encourage your baby to sleep!

Establishing a bedtime routine. A routine provides babies with security and

comfort and can encourage them to sleep for longer spells. Establishing a routine can be tricky with a newborn, but try to get a loose schedule started, especially at bedtime. Your baby will be more relaxed if they know what's coming, and the more relaxed they are, the more likely they’ll fall asleep easily. Before bedtime let your baby get any pent-up energy out of their system then follow it up with a bath and lullaby and dim the light when you’re feeding. Whatever you do, do the same thing every night.

Learn the signs that your baby is tired. If they’re fussing, grizzling, crying, pulling their ears, rubbing eyes or being especially clingy, they’re probably sleepy.

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Teach the difference between day and night. In the

daytime, play with your baby. Chat and sing to them, keep their room light and bright. Don't try to cut out the radio or washing machine. At night, stay quiet when you feed, keep lights and noise low and hopefully your baby will work out that night-time is for sleeping!

Give your baby a security object, blanket or stuffed animal. A great way to make teddy a favourite is keep it near

you so it becomes mum-scented. Stretch one of your t-shirts over baby’s mattress - when they startle awake the smell of mum can calm them.

Put your baby down awake. If they’ve become sleepy on the breast or bottle, rouse them slightly before putting them in their cot. How to put your baby to sleep is a matter of debate but it’s important to find the way that works for you. I suggest giving your baby a chance to fall asleep on their own.

It might be OK to rock them to sleep in the middle of the day but not so much fun at 3am! If in the first few weeks your baby is allowed to fall asleep during a feed or stroked until they are asleep, they’ll soon depend on it.

Teach your baby to settle itself. If your baby cries, allow them to cry for 3 minutes, then comfort them but don't pick them up. Let them cry for 5 more minutes and return again.

Extend the time you wait before returning each time and your baby will learn to soothe itself and fall asleep without assistance. It’s difficult listening to your baby cry but this method does usually work, although it may take a few days.

Don’t stay by the cot. Some parents choose to stay with their child as they fall asleep but unless you want to do this forever gradually move further away. After a week you're sitting by the door and, finally, you need no longer stay. If your baby is upset, go to them and say "night, night", then go back to your place in the room.

Be consistent. Whichever approach you take, it's no good

doing it one night and not bothering the next. You're not just doing it for you - 'Training' your baby to self-settle at night will have positive effects on their general outlook during waking hours. Letting your baby settle themselves gives independence, confidence and security. Remember, your child won't love you any less in the morning!

6 Families Solent East November/December 2011

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Focus on

First Aid We all know that first aid can save lives and prevent minor injuries from getting worse. Accidents can and do happen and children are particularly susceptible.

Over the years, first aid training has been simplified, making it easier to learn and importantly, easier to retain the knowledge and skills. Courses can be fun and engaging and lesson outlines use guidelines and materials designed by educators.

Many courses are supported by video clips and manuals that serve as reference materials, but also assist in the learning process.

But with so many courses on offer what training do you actually need? To be honest it depends on what you are doing. First Aid Solutions is a local company based on Highland Road in Portsmouth that offer a range of courses to suit different requirements. For parents and nannies working within the home the ‘Care for Children’ course is ideal as it covers life threatening emergencies as well as a whole range of first aid signs, symptoms and treatments. It takes one day and can make all the difference. If you are a professional child care provider responsible for children and infants in the

absence of parents then your legal and OFSTED requirements are covered by their ‘Pediatric First Aid’ course, conducted over two days. For schools, the DfEE document ‘Guidance for Schools’ provides a lengthy if somewhat vague explanation of your obligations. Provision is dependent on risk assessment, but it would be prudent to ensure that someone is always on hand during in-school and out-of-school activities with at least some basic first aid knowledge. First Aid Solutions advise that schools have a mix of training throughout their staff. This should include some staff with the 3 day ‘First Aid at Work’ training, some with Pediatric First Aid training and a good amount of staff who have completed a ‘First Aid for Schools’ program, a half day introduction to emergency care for youngsters and a course that ensures adequate cover at all times.

For more information, prices or advice contact First Aid Solutions on 02392 751026

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Connecting you with the past Experience the story of Hampshire‘s living history from the Victorian era to the 1970s by exploring a network of streets, buildings and vintage vehicles, set in side a modern building.

- Play Post office for under 5s - Victorian dressing up clothes for all the family - Free children‘s ‘I Spy‘ and other trails - Look out for the costumed characters WI NTE R EVE NTS I NCLU DE:

Father Christmas Grotto Victorian Christmas Events

10, 11, 17 & 18 Dec

10 Dec, 10am–5pm & 6.30–9.30pm

November/December Families Solent East 7

COMPETITION

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ING T A K S E C I 2 FAMILY ON!!

W E B O T S TICKET

For the second year running, the historic city of Winchester will be transforming itself into England’s Christmas Capital – complete with lantern parade, Christmas market, ice rink, independent shopping, and more. There is no doubt that Winchester holds its own with any European destination for those in search of an authentic Christmas experience.

Winchester was catapulted to Christmas stardom after the launch of its two most successful festive events; Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market, which attracts in excess of 300,000 visitors each year, and its open-air ice rink. Add to the mix the city’s beautiful medieval high street decked in Christmas lights, its quality independent boutiques, home-grown pantomime, great restaurants and friendly welcome, the city challenges visitors to nd anywhere more Christmassy in the UK. To nd out more about the Cathedral’s Christmas events visit www. winchester-cathedral.org.uk/christmas. This is a chance to win one of 2 family tickets (2 adults & 2 children) worth £30. Just email competitions@familiessolenteast.co.uk with your answer to this question by 23rd November:

What two major Christmas events are held in Winchester Cathedral’s historic Inner Close?

8 Families Solent East November/December 2011

Why Can’t We Love Our Bodies?

by Abi Foss

D

o you ever look at yourself in the mirror naked? What do you say to yourself about what you see? Do you judge your body as too fat, too wobbly, too thin, too stretch-marked, too old, too out of proportion?

Do you despair about your dimpled thighs, loathe your jelly belly?

Holy Mother!

Many, many moons ago, aging mothers’ bodies were not just appreciated for their great contribution to the human race, they were considered to be sacred.

Think of that! Droopy breasts, sagging bellies and saddle-bag thighs bringing people to their knees in reverence.

Women’s bodies, with all their lumps and bumps, were considered divine for the simple fact that they created life. I believe we are still suffering the after effects of several thousand years of patriarchal religious denunciation of the body, specifically women’s bodies, as sinful and dirty. And now we have images of models who barely eat and ruthless commercialism to contend with.

We don’t love our bodies because our prevailing culture doesn’t value them, exactly as they are.

Now, how would you feel if someone looked you up and down, shook their head, tut-tutted and pointed out every supposed bodily ‘flaw’ that they could see? You’d probably tell them (or at least want to tell them) to shove their opinions up a certain part of their anatomy. That kind of talk, quite frankly, is insulting. How sad then, that we cannot delight in our bodies, whatever shape they are, these bodies that have produced our gorgeous (well, most of the time) kids. Why are we women so self-critical?

Reality Check And there lies the key: value and self-acceptance. “How do I know this body is the perfect one for me?” the spiritual teacher Byron Katie once asked.

“Because this is the one I have got! Why argue with reality?”

Mirror Anxiety According to an early 2011 study commissioned by the online fashion retailer isme.com, 90 per cent of women over forty are so unhappy with what they see in the mirror, they suffer from what researchers have dubbed ‘mid-life mirror angst syndrome’. I would bet this affects a large proportion of the under forties too. As a forty-something myself, it pains me to remember how little appreciation I had for my youthful, slender body with my then (perfectly normal), slightly rounded belly.

The one time I truly loved my belly was when I was pregnant; I felt almost regal, gliding around like a stately galleon.

However, I have the kind of dry, sensitive skin that stretch-marks no matter how many expensive oils I lavish upon it.

These days, I have a post-pregnancy mummy tummy, which I could, I suppose, flatten down with vicious dieting and a punishing exercise regime.

But, you know what? I really cannot be

“And there lies the key: value and self-acceptance.

How do I know this body is the perfect one for me?

Because this is the one I have got! Why argue with reality?”

bothered. I mean, who would I be doing it for? To make me more presentable to others, so that they would like me more? To stop myself being self-critical?

That would continue anyway – there will always be something about me, physical or otherwise, that is imperfect.

Perfectly Imperfect Because here’s the thing: perfection does not exist. Never has. Never will.

Celebrities who have whole entourages on hand to groom them within an inch of their glamourous lives, still feel as insecure as the rest of us. Our whole Western culture, sadly, lives on a fastfood diet of digitally enhanced images of impossibly thin young women with flawless skin. We worship at the fountain of youth and poke fun at frail ‘old codgers’, studiously ignoring the fact that every single one of us will, at some point, age, wither and die. This strange state of denial is what drives the whole, multi-billion pound cosmetic industry.

When I look in the mirror these days, I consciously practice not arguing with reality. I am aging. Fact. And I have realised that aged faces with deep, wrinkled ‘laugher lines’ are far more endearing than airbrushed, soulless mannequin types. It is the kindness that emanates from people that makes them beautiful; like the grandmother who is always there with a warm cuddle and a bowl of soup just when you need it.

Somehow, I do not think that on my deathbed I will wish I had got myself a tummy tuck or Botoxed my forehead. If anything, I will wish I had loved my body more, and respected it as the incredibly intelligent, sophisticated, miraculous temporary space suit that it is.

Abi Foss is a hypnotherapist and writer on all things holistic and spiritual. See: www.abifoss.co.uk Image courtesy of Seraphine www.seraphine.com 0870 609 2602

November/December Families Solent East 9

Christmas Do’s & Don’ts! don’t

do

expect the kids to be angels

get out and about

They’ve broken up from school about to burst with excitement about the arrival of Santa.

You’ve been using the ‘if you’re not good, Santa won’t come’ since Easter and then the presents are opened and your little angels turn into little devils. Rules and routine are thrown out of the window so relatives can be entertained and trips can be taken. Combine that with too many treats and lots of attention from well meaning visitors and the magic of Christmas can disappear pretty quickly. Try not to let all discipline go out of the window and if you sense that there’s a tantrum on the way, remove your child from the mayhem.

During their time out, remind them that Santa can take gifts back from children who don’t behave!

You are not under house arrest over the festive period.

We shouldn’t be surprised that if you fill your home with relatives you rarely see and then lock the door, there will be arguments. Add some wine and the results are anything but festive. Don’t be afraid of getting wrapped up and heading out for a bracing walk. It will clear the house and let the little ones run off some steam.

do

make your own traditions Every family has it’s own way of celebrating. Now you have your own children it’s time for you to make your own traditions. Whether it’s a trip to the local crib service on Christmas Eve, or a day of Christmas baking on the Sunday before the festivities begin, it’s up to YOU to create your traditions. A great idea I’ve taken from a friend is the Christmas Eve hamper. This is a basket, left by one of Santa’s helpers, filled with goodies to enjoy on the night before Christmas. In it are things like festive pyjamas for the children, new tooth brushes, a mug to make hot chocolate and a DVD for the family to watch. It’s the perfect kit to help kick start Christmas.

don’t

waste money Let’s face it, this is going to be a tough year for all of us. We want to give our children everything on their list, but won’t be able to.

Most of us will be celebrating making it to the 25th December with a job and a roof over our heads. However, you can still enjoy the festivities while being frugal. Swop traditional cards for an email including a festive photo, Organise a secret Santa for adult family members with a spending limit. Or simply suggest that you only buy for the family’s children. Keep reminding yourself that it’s not about the money your spend on each other, it’s about the time you spend with each other.

do

give out jobs A resentful host is not a happy host so when you do your pre-Christmas shopping list, make sure you also write a list of jobs you’ll need doing on the big day. If you know your Mother-in-Law has a view about your Yorkshire Puddings, set her to work making some better ones.

Remember, a busy cook is often a quiet cook!

don’t

expect perfection

do

enjoy the preparation If you’re not careful, baking the cake, decorating the house and dressing the tree can begin to feel like a chore. Don’t let it become hard work. Give yourself the time to enjoy it and accept that with a little help from your little ones you can create some lovely Christmas memories.

do

try and relax By the time Christmas Day arrives, most of us are exhausted.

You’ve probably spent the weeks prior to the big day panic shopping, baking everything that Jamie suggested in his Christmas special and ferrying the family from one festive event to the next. Earmark some time for you. It’s supposed to be a holiday

don’t

forget to have a

Happy Christmas!

10 Families Solent East November/December 2011

Like it or not, your Christmas will not be perfect.

You will over cook the turkey, under cook the pudding and end up sobbing into a huge glass of Sauvignon Blanc because your Mother-in-Law has criticized your gravy. But because you’ve put so much time and effort into hosting the perfect Christmas, the disappointment at the odd hiccup is overwhelming. Start the festive period accepting you’re not Nigella and it won’t be perfect and you’ll enjoy the parts that go well.

don’t

stress about the presents

So you haven’t been able to find the latest Transformer or bag a Buzz Lightyear doll. Before you beat yourself, ask yourself this.

Do you remember the presents you didn’t get when you were a child? Or do you remember the experiences you had.? My memories are the treasure hunts my parents put on for Christmas morning, preparing lunch with my wonderful Mum, and covering my Dad in tinsle once he had fallen asleep after lunch! Your kids will remember the laughter and the love and when you wake up in January, so will you.

Families Attractions

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What’s On Mainland EVERY SATURDAY 9.30AM – 12.45PM CLIVE’S EASY-LEARN POP MUSIC SCHOOLS Whiteley Community Centre Dawn Hamblet brings new Easy Learn music schools to Whiteley and Southampton (see below and page 4 for more details) Call 07926 039480 for more details or to book.

EVERY MONDAY 5.45 – 9.00PM CLIVE’S EASY LEARN POP MUSIC SCHOOLS Burridge village hall, Southampton Call 07926 039480 for more details or to book.

TUE 8 NOVEMBER 9.30AM - 4PM TRAVELLING SOUK CHRISTMAS FAIR IN THE GREAT BARN Basing House, Barton’s Lane, Basingstoke www.thetravellingsouk.com The Travelling Souk will be passing through Old Basing for one day only- bringing a tempting assortment of unique gifts that you can’t buy elsewhere! Find personalised presents, quality clothes, shoes, jewellery and decorative home accessories. every purchase will support the Pelican Cancer Foundation. Admission £5 on the door.

SAT 12 NOVEMBER 11AM – 1PM & 2 – 4PM FORGET ME NOT National Museum of the Royal Navy www.royalnavalmuseum.org 023 9272 7582 To mark Remembrance Day make a poppy, create your own mini wreath or make a forget-me-not postcard inspired by those sent home by servicemen during wartime. FREE drop-in workshop, all ages welcome.

SAT 12 NOVEMBER 1.30PM FIDDLESTICKS The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, Havant 02392 472700 www.thespring.co.uk Fiddlesticks is the playful spirit of a violin who breaks free from his strings and leads us into a world of musical fantasy in search of the beautiful Violinka. Garlic Theatre conjure a spellbinding tale of rhythmical twists and turns with a lively blend of clowning, rod and shadow puppets, percussion and live music. FREE activity sheets for each child. Ages 4+. Tickets £5.95, £19.50 for a family of 4 SAT 12 - SUN 13 NOVEMBER 10:30 – 4PM CHRISTMAS MARKET Weald and Downland Museum Singleton www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811363 Find that perfect gift or treat at a traditional Christmas market, set in and around our historic buildings.

Dozens of stalls with arts, crafts, food, unusual gifts and much more.

Admission only £2.50, including access to all Museum exhibits.

SUN 13 NOVEMBER 10AM - 5PM REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY D-Day Museum, Southsea Free admission to the D-Day museum to mark Remembrance Sunday.

WED 16, 23 & 30 NOVEMBER 6:30PM GHOST WALKS Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower Priddys Hard, Gosport 02392 505600 www.explosion.org.uk Family friendly guided walk through the historic buildings of the Royal Navy’s former munitions stores – areas not usually open to the public. tickets £5. Limited spaces so book in advance

FROM THUR 17 NOVEMBER SPECIAL CHRISTMAS MARKETS every Thursday Fareham town centre SAT 19 NOVEMBER 11 - 1PM CHRISTMAS FAIR St Thomas Cathedral, Old Portsmouth Many stalls, grand raffle, tombola, face painting and Santa’s Grotto.

Admission - 50p, children free.

SAT 19 NOVEMBER – FRI 23 DECEMBER (weekends & selected days only) SANTA’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND Paultons Park www.paultonspark.co.uk 023 8081 4442 Tickets include entry to the amazing new Peppa Pig World featuring 7 fun rides and large indoor soft play area, as well as access to some of the Park’s other rides.

SUN 20 NOVEMBER 11 – 3PM BOUTIQUE MARKET The Guildhall, Portsmouth vintage-feel indoor market giving sellers a chance to showcase themselves in Portsmouth’s finest building.

THUR 24 NOVEMBER 6PM LANTERN PROCESSION Winchester Cathedral, The Great Hall 01962 857 575 www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Marking the opening of the Christmas Market and Ice Rink, this stunning parade makes its way from the Great Hall, through the high street, to the Cathedral for the official opening ceremony, ice skating display and fireworks. To take part in the procession you must attend two lantern making workshops. Details and tickets (£5 per lantern) available from the Cathedral Box Office or online THUR 24 NOVEMBER - WED 21 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MARKET Winchester Cathedral Open every day from 10am, closing at 6pm Sun – Wed and 7.30pm Thu – Sat. THUR 24 NOVEMBER – MON 2 JANUARY 10AM - 7.30PM WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL ICE RINK www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk 01962 857 276 www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Skate under the stars with friends and family at this beautiful openair real ice rink. 1 hour sessions include free skate hire. Minimum age limit is 4 years +, sessions for 2+ years are available at 9.45am, Mon – Fri until 16 Dec. Tickets: £9.50 adult, £7.50 concessions, £5 children aged 4-7, £30 family (2 adults + 2 children)

12 Families Solent East November/December 2011

THUR 24 NOVEMBER – MON 8 JANUARY THE BORROWERS The Nuffield Theatre Southampton www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk 02380 671771 Arrietty and her parents are The Borrowers, tiny people who live under the floorboards. They own nothing, borrow everything and all without being seen by the ‘human beans’ who live in the house above their heads. Mary Norton’s story is full of thrills and spills and has delighted the littlest children and the biggest grown-ups for years and years. With music and jokes and field mice Tickets £8.50 - £16.50 FRI 25 NOVEMBER – SAT 24 DECEMBER 10.30AM - 5.45PM CHRISTMAS AT MARWELL Marwell Wildlife www.marwell.org.uk 01962 777 407 Journey through Marwell Hall to meet Santa, Mrs Claus and their elves. Ride on the festive express train to the ice palace, storytelling with puppets and decorating gingerbread. Receive a special gift and photo opportunities with costumed characters!

FRI 25 – SUN 27 NOVEMBER 10AM – 6PM A VICTORIAN FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.historicdockyard.co.uk 023 9283 9766 Back for a 12th year join a wonderland of Victorian stories and characters at PHD. With a large Christmas market, festive entertainment, snow in the air and all of their world famous attractions SAT 26 NOVEMBER 10AM NATIONAL TREE WEEK Staunton Country Park Havant 02392 453 405 Our annual celebrations of tremendous trees. Display, demonstrations and trail to help you discover more about our favourite trees in the Park.

SAT 26 – SUN 27 NOVEMBER 1PM-5PM EASTNEY BEAM ENGINE HOUSE OPEN DAY Henderson Road, Eastney Impressive Victorian building containing classic Boulton Watt beam engines and pumps restored to their original 1887 condition.

Free admission.

THUR 26 NOVEMBER – FRI 23 DECEMBER 12:15PM, 2:15PM & 3:30PM THEMED TOWER TOURS Winchester Cathedral 01962 857 575 www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk spectacular views across the city

Families What’s and the Cathedral Close followed by tea/coffee (Christmas Tours) or mulled wine (Twilight Tours) and mince pies.

Tickets: £8.50/£13.50 27 NOVEMBER - 18 DECEMBER SUNDAYS 10AM – 6PM Live Nativity Winchester Cathedral Meet Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and animals in their stable at the Christmas Market. Free admission.

SAT 3 DECEMBER 1:30 – 4:30PM CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOP National Museum of the Royal Navy 02392 727584 events@nmrn.org.uk Work alongside a professional florist to create a beautiful festive wreath from a range of materials, ideal for your home or to give as a gift. Cost £18 per person including all materials and refreshments. Booking is essential.

SAT 3 DECEMBER 10 – 4PM SOUTHSEA CRAFT MARKET Crafty Christmas gifts available at the Craft Fair including clothes, candles etc. or just spoil yourself with some homemade fudge and chocolates.

SAT 3 - SUN 4 DECEMBER 10AM – 4.30PM SUBMARINE FATHER CHRISTMAS RN Submarine Museum 023 9251 0354 Meet Father Christmas on a WW2 Submarine as he prepares to set sail for Christmas Eve. Free gift for every child. Tickets Advanced £9, Family (max 4 persons) £26 On the door £10, Family £30.

Under 3’s FREE.

SUN 4 - MON 5 DECEMBER FROM 6:30PM KALEIDOSCOPE CHRISTMAS CONCERTS Royal Marines Museum, Portsmouth 023 9281 9385 The Kaleidoscope Salon Orchestra perform a programme of traditional carols, favourite light classics and festive music. As always, the audience will be invited to join in with the Christmas carols and songs towards the end of the Concert.

SAT 3 – SAT 24 DECEMBER SANTA SPECIALS ON THE WATERCRESS LINES The Railway Station, Alresford 01962 733 810 www.watercressline.co.uk Board the steam hauled ‘Santa Special’ and meet Santa himself!

Every child receives a gift and soft drink and adults a glass of wine and mince pie. Santa Fares: Adult £15, Child (1-16) £15, Baby £8

SUN 4 DECEMBER TREE DRESSING AFTERNOON Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, Singleton www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811363 A fascinating & unusual celebration for all the family of the life-giving properties of trees -procession and spiral dance around two magnificent aspen trees, which are dressed with hundreds of lanterns made during the afternoon.

SUN 4 DECEMBER 12:30PM ‘LOVE SOUTHSEA’ MARKET AT THE SQUARE TOWER Broad Street, Portsmouth Small antiques, boutique businesses, not on the high street finds for your home, beautiful jewellery and so much more to look at.

WED 7 DECEMBER - SUN 1 JANUARY CINDERELLA The Kings Theatre 02392 828282 www.kings-southsea.com Starring Coronation Street’s Tracy Shaw, Hollyoaks’ Marcus Patrick, Emmerdale’s Stuart Wade and Leah Bracknell and Last of the Summer Wine’s Tom Owen.

On

THUR 8 - SUN 11 DECEMBER & FRI 16 SUN 18 DECEMBER THE ADVENTURES OF A BEAR CALLED PADDINGTON The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, Havant 023 9247 2700 www.thespring.co.uk Adapted by playwright Alfred Bradley from Michael Bond’s stories and with songs written specially for the show, The Adventures of a Bear Called Paddington brings to life Mr and Mrs Brown, Judy and Jonathan, Mrs Bird, Mr Gruber, Mr Curry and of course the innocent, accidentprone Paddington himself. Funfilled with great appeal to fans old and new, young and old. £8.50, £7 concession. £14 Family of 2 (includes 1 child). £28 Family of 4 (includes at least 2 children)

S A N TA S P E C I A L S S E E S A N TA O N A S T E A M T R A I N THE PERFECT WAY TO START YOUR CHRISTMAS

Advance booking only !

C H R I S T M A S M A R K E T: 24 November – 21 December 2011 I C E R I N K : 24 November 2011 – 2 January 2012 S E RV I C E S A N D E V E N T S

CALL RESERVATIONS ON 01962 733810 TO BOOK OR

B OX O F F I C E : 0 1 9 62 85 7 2 76

CLICKETY CLICK TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

November/December Families Solent East 13

Families What’s FRI 9 DECEMBER - SUN 1 JANUARY BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 01329 231942 www.fernehamhall.co.uk Starring Ian “H” Watkins from Steps! Contact theatre for details.

SAT 10 DECEMBER 11AM – 5 PM CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Port Solent Live Christmas music and family entertainment throughout the day - Grab a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine and join in with the carol singing.

SAT 10 DECEMBER 10AM – 1PM GLASS CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS Making Space, Bishopstoke Road, Leigh Park admin@makingspace.org Tel: 023 9247 2491 Spend festive family time together and create something really special. Trap sparkly papers between sheets of glass or make themed hanging decorations.

Adults go FREE, Children 5 yrs + SAT 10 – SUN 11 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS FOOD FAYRE Gunwharf Quays fun & festive market in Central Square.

SAT 10 - SUN 11 & SAT 17 FRI 23 DECEMBER COUNTRY CHRISTMAS Staunton Country Park, Havant 02392 453 405 Get creative in elves workshops and feed the friendly festive animals. With Christmas crafts, extra goodies and best of all, the chance to meet Santa for an early present! Various session times available - pre-booking is essential.

SAT 10 – SUN 11 & SAT 17 – TUE 20 DECEMBER SANTA SPECIAL Exbury Gardens 02380 245 750 www.exbury.co.uk Musical train journey throughout the day from 10:15am. Includes train ride, hot punch and mince pie for adults. Children visit Santa’s grotto to receive a present. Follow the Winter Trail in the Gardens. £15 adult, £7.50 child, under 3’s FREE. SAT 10 – SUN 11 & SAT 17 – SUN 18 DECEMBER 11.30 - 4.30PM FATHER CHRISTMAS GROTTO Milestones Museum, Basingstoke www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766 Traditional Father Christmas grotto.

Each child is given a gift from Father Christmas, suitable from ages 0 -15 yrs. for £3 per child.

Get involved in the Victorian school (at selected times on the 10th Dec), try the Christmas trail and design and make a Victorian Christmas card to take home.

On SUN 11 DECEMBER 4PM LIGHT UP A LIFE MEMORIAL SERVICE Guildhall Square Portsmouth 023 9223 7146 memorial service with Christmas carols open to anyone who would like to reflect on the memories of those that will not be with them this Christmas. The service will be led by The Rowans Hospice Chaplain, Lance Blake. Participants can dedicate a light on the tree standing in the Guildhall Square in memory of a loved one. A dedication form will be available via our website, Hospice shops and on request. Every dedication will receive a hand written card and pin badge representing the light being lit.

SAT 17 DECEMBER – SUN 1 JANUARY 11AM – 1PM & 2PM – 4PM FAMILY CHRISTMAS TRAIL www.historicdockyard.co.uk Hands on activities for all the family. FREE with a valid ticket and children must be accompanied by an adult SAT 17 DECEMBER – SUN 2 JANUARY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS Beaulieu National Motor Museum www.beaulieu.co.uk 01590612345 Children can delve into a ‘Box of Delights’ and dress up in period costumes while in the Lower Drawing Room there will be carol singing around the grand piano for everyone to enjoy in Palace House.

Victorian-style decorations around the house and the magnificent Christmas tree in the Upper Drawing Room will add to the flavour and charm of the season SUN 18 DECEMBER 11AM – 3PM BOUTIQUE MARKET Portsmouth Guildhall MON 19 - THURS 22 DECEMBER VARIOUS CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Winchester Cathedral 01962 857224 Christmas gift bags, peppermint Creams, gift boxes and storytelling. Call/email for booking details. cheryl.bryan@ winchester-cathedral.org.uk MON 19 – THUR 22 DECEMBER 12.30PM – 12.45PM THE CHRISTMAS STORY Winchester Cathedral Hear the wonderful Christmas stories from around the world retold with the help of props and puppets.

Open to children of all ages.

Cathedral admission applies for adults, free entry for children under 16 with family.

14 Families Solent East November/December 2011

Magical Family Shows for Christmas Garlic Theatre present Fiddlesticks

Puppets spring to life in this magical journey Saturday 12 November, 1.30pm 5.95, £19.50 for a family of 4 The Pied Piper Theatre Company present

Great Gran’s Great Games Wednesday 21 December, 11.30am £5.95, £19.50 for a family of 4

FREE London 2012 Olympic Games inspired activity sheets will be given to each child attending each of the above performances. Age suitability 4+

HumDrum present

The Adventures of a Bear Called Paddington Thurs 8 - Sun 11 / Fri 16 - Sun 18 December Adapted from the stories of children’s literature writer Michael Bond. £8.50, £7 conc., £28 family of 4

The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre | 56 East Street, Havant PO9 1BS Box Office 02392 472700 | www.thespring.co.uk

WED 21 DECEMBER 11.30AM GREAT GRAN’S GREAT GAMES The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, East St, Havant 02392 472700 www.thespring.co.uk Frankly, Ollie can’t see the point of his Great Gran; and now it’s even worse. She fell and hurt her hip and had to come to stay. Ollie has had to give up his room. And what can she do? She can’t run, jump, skate, anything. However, she can do something he can’t.

She can swim. In fact, she can do it rather well. There was a time she did it at the 1948 Olympic Games in London...back when the athletes had to bring their own towels!

FREE London Olympic Games 2012 activity sheets for each child.

Ages 4+. Tickets £5.95, £19.50 for a family of 4 MON 26 - TUE 27 DECEMBER 10AM – 4PM CHRISTMAS LEAVE ON THE WATERCRESS LINE The Railway Station, Alresford 01962 733 810 www.watercressline.co.uk Experience the atmosphere of a WWII Christmas. Song, dance, steam and seasonal merriment!

Standard fares apply: Adult £14; Child (2-16) £7; Family £35

What’s On Isle of Wight SAT 26 NOVEMBER 10AM-3.30PM ST JOHN AMBULANCE CRAFT FAIR The Parish Centre, Town Lane, Newport.

Free admission

SAT 19 - SUN 20 NOVEMBER A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Osborne House, The Avenue, East Cowes 0870 333 1183 www.english-heritage.org.uk A unique glimpse into the 19th century holiday with a festive Victorian scene complete with Christmas trees, Dickensian characters & traditional entertainments. The sumptuous ground floor rooms are bedecked with festive decorations as they were when Queen Victoria celebrated Christmas at Osborne, with colourful trees decorated in the style favoured by Prince Albert.

FRI 2 DECEMBER 10AM - 3PM CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING Osborne House, East Cowes Bring out your creative side and make your own Christmas wreath or table arrangement. Enjoy a tour around the house. Lunch provided. £60 per person (£50 per person for English Heritage members) booking essential SAT 3 - SAT 24 DECEMBER SANTA SPECIALS IW STEAM RAILWAY www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk Passengers are taken on a 50-minute steam train ride before entering a magical winter wonderland, where adults can enjoy a festive drink and children receive a bag of treats. The youngest visitors can visit Santa’s grotto, where everyone receives

a gift. There are also various entertainers to add to the festive fun MON 26 - TUE 27 DECEMBER MINCE PIE SPECIALS IW Steam Railway www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk 01983 882204 After the indulgence of Christmas Day, settle back in a warm and comfortable Victorian or Edwardian carriage and enjoy a steam train journey through the Island’s unspoilt winter landscape... And there’s seasonal refreshments for every adult and child!

FRI 9 DECEMBER 10AM – 2PM CHRISTMAS CAKE DECORATING Osborne House The Avenue,East Cowes 0870 333 1183 Join our experienced staff to perfect your Christmas cake decorating.

Create your masterpiece in the conductive surroundings of the property with expert guidance and assistance. Take home your creation for your family to enjoy on Christmas Day. Lunch will be provided. Adults only £50/£60 members/Non Members

Dates, times and prices are acurate at time of going to print. Although we aim to be as accurate as possible, the events listed in our What’s On section are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Some events may have a charge, so please contact venues in advance to check full details.

Classifieds PARTIES A.I.S LIMOUSINES & PARTY BUSES

www.aislimos.co.uk 023 9235 8627. Kids parties, School Proms, Snaps Discos, etc.

GIRLIE GIRLS PARTIES

Pamper and craft parties for girls 4 to 15 www.girliegirlsparties.co.uk 07738 053486

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ‘LINEN AT HOME’ NEW TO YOUR AREA

Festive celebrations AT OSBORNE HOUSE

A Victorian Christmas Sat 19 and Sun 20 Nov (10am - 4pm)

Be your own boss; working when it suits you & your family; no sales targets; fantastic support. To view the gorgous range of products, visit http://www.linenathome.co.uk/ju or host your own party and benefit from Free & 1/2 price items.

Call Julie 023 9259 3221 or 07503 199320 for more details.

TUITION

Experience the spirit of a traditional Victorian Christmas and enjoy a fun family day out with amazing side-shows, Singing Chimney Sweeps and Father Christmas.

TGA.6989.031011

Osborne House, Isle of Wight PO32 6JX www.english-heritage.org.uk/events or call 0870 333 1183

November/December Families Solent East 15

Christmas Celebrations

17th December 2011 - 2nd January 2012 Open 10am - 5pm U Festive activites 11am - 4pm

Christmas carols in Palace House ~ Children’s festive activities Giant Christmas tree ~ Gift ideas for Christmas National Motor Museum, Palace House and Gardens, Beaulieu Abbey, and World of Top Gear included in entry Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire SO42 7ZN Exit 2 M27 01590 612345 www.beaulieu.co.uk Open daily from 10am (Closed Christmas Day)