Families Hampshire North Nov-Dec 2015 issue 11

ISSUE 11 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

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It’s Christmas time again! * Where to see Santa * Festive Theatre * Christmas shopping, and more...

The essential magazine for families with young children in Andover, Basingstoke, Hook, Fleet, Alton, Bordon & surrounding areas

Yateley Manor A local Co-Educational Prep School for ages 3 - 13

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Basingstoke North Basingstoke South Fleet

Your Child • Their Journey • Our Focus

Open Mornings Saturday 14th November

10.00am - 12.00 noon

Saturday 12th March

10.00am - 12.00 noon

www.yateleymanor.com

01252 405500

01256 636 233 01256 533 234 01252 759 131 kumon.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

registrar@yateleymanor.com

St Nicholas’ School FLEET

•

HAMPSHIRE

An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 - 7 and girls aged 3 - 16

“We foster a love of learning and ensure that pupils are confident and secure” • Small class sizes • Inspiring teachers • First rate facilities • Outstanding results

Entrance Exams Fri 8th January 2016 Year 7 Entry st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

01252 850121

For more information please contact the Registrar: registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

St Nicholas’ School, Redfields House, Redfields Lane, Fleet, Hampshire GU52 ORF Registered in England Reg. No. 872200 Reg. Charity No. 307341

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Editor’s welcome I cannot believe that this is the last issue of 2015 – where on earth has this year gone to? It is also my penultimate issue as editor as I’m pleased to be able to share the news that a new editor will be taking over from the New Year. I will give you more information in the January issue but would like to assure my readers and advertisers that the transition will be seamless and it is very much business as usual here at Families Hampshire North!

Here’s wishing you all a very happy Christmas!

Sara

In this issue…

4 - 6 7 - 8 9 - 16

News Education It’s Christmas time again!

The Vyne at Christmas @TheVyneNT https://www.facebook.com/VyneNT This November and December, The Vyne is celebrating this seasonal time with ‘A country house at Christmas’.

Seven rooms of the house is to be decorated in traditional way with the chance for children to make their own crackers in our cracker factory (£3 per cracker, booking is essential).

After you have explored the house and gardens, why not treat yourself to Lady Chute’s Christmas afternoon tea with festive sandwiches, cakes tea all served on our best china with a glass of champagne to finish the afternoon off in style (£25 for two people, please call 01256 885416 to book). If you fancy something more hearty, book onto one of our Christmas lunches in the Brewhouse. Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner with roast turkey or nut roast and all the trimmings with dessert and take a tasty treat of a mince pie home with you.

After all this seasonal fun, start the new year with the new year amble through the grounds on 2nd January, from 11am (booking essential). There is fun for all the family this Christmas at The Vyne, so why not check out our website for more information www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne/

- Where to see Santa - Festive Theatre - Christmas shopping, and more...

A Country House at Christmas Designed by: Creative thinking

Cover by:

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Editor: Sara Dawson Email: editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Tel: 01256 330147

January/February – Childcare & Nurseries Booking & copy deadline is 30th November

Find us on Facebook and Twitter

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@FamiliesHantsN

Families Hampshire North is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire North is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. © All content copyright Families Hampshire North.

Disclaimer: We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Data protection: If you send us your name & address in order to win a prize in a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the prize. If you would prefer us not to do this please state this on your entry.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 3

News Yasmin Anne Photography opens a new studio in Eversley Yasmin Mason is a fine art portrait photographer who specialises in new-born babies, families and weddings. Yasmin has recently opened up a new photography studio in Eversley, and would like to invite you and your family to come and relax, enjoy the flat screen TV and food, and have your pictures taken too!

The new studio outside is surrounded by beautiful countryside, horses and even lamas! Inside, it is filled to the brim with props and backdrops to make your photoshoot unique. They have a whole wardrobe rail with outfits for maternity clients and little girls when they come in for a cake smash shoot, hairbands, buckets, baskets, blankets….you name it they have it. You can choose for yourself any of the props you would like to include in your session.

Family and new-born photography sessions start from £65 and wedding photography starts from £899. For any enquiries please email: info@yasminanne.co.uk or call 07845701896.

Winter fun at Jubilee Nurseries Winter is a wonderful time for everyone at Jubilee Day Nursery and Jubilee Gems to head outdoors and explore a treasure trove of natural wonders.

After saying hello to all the animals on our farm, we’ll collect conkers, leaves and acorns, pretend to be puffing dragons in the frosty air and learn all about the changing seasons and animals readying themselves for hibernation. We love to climb on logs and trees and build dens in Forest School!

After a delicious home-cooked lunch, our smallest people snuggle down for a well-earned nap before getting ready to bake some delights in our mud kitchen. In the meantime, our pre-school children might choose to create some spectacular firework pictures or perhaps learn all about Diwali, Hannukah and Christmas.

Our families love to join us at Christmastime for our magical ‘Winter Wonder Walk’ where the campfire is lit, the woods come alive with carols and a very special visitor from Lapland makes an early appearance! We love to create special memories which last a lifetime for all the family.

For babies from 3 months to pre-school children, term-time only, full and part-time provision available.

Discounts for Armed Forces and NHS workers. www.jubileegems.co.uk www.jubileenursery.co.uk

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Waitrose & John Lewis opens in Basingstoke For just over a year now those of us living in Basingstoke have seen the huge development taking place in Basing View, eagerly awaiting the opening of this prestigious store. At the time of writing, progress was good and the stores were in the final stages of building and fitting, well on track for their grand opening at 9am on 12th November.

This latest Waitrose & John Lewis at home is the 3rd colocated site in the country and represents the companies’ faith in Basingstoke as a worthwhile investment. Recruitment has also focussed on the local area with management working closely with local recruitment companies and the Job Centre.

The new store has a lovely wide open atrium at its entrance, where you then divert to either Waitrose to the left, or John Lewis at home to the right. There are cafes and resting areas in Waitrose, as well as a tapas and wine bar! Access has been well thought out with plenty of elevators, travelators and staircases, and both stores have been designed to maximise space and keep an ‘open plan’ theme. There is a roof pay and display car park with 400+ parking spaces, although the cost of this will be refunded for customers at cashpoints inside on purchase.

Waitrose will be open from 7.30am to 9pm Mon-Sat, with John Lewis opening from 9am to 8pm Mon-Sat. Both stores will open from 11am to 5pm on Sunday, with browsing from 10.30am.

Plan ahead for GP surgery closures over Christmas and New Year People going away often forget that they might need additional supplies because they will be away from home when they would normally request a new prescription. Equally, it is helpful to remind friends or relatives coming to stay over the holiday period to think of this before they come. Surgeries would rather receive requests early, or even for an additional quantity, than risk your prescription not being processed and dispensed when you need it.

Boundaries Surgery in Four Marks, Chawton Park Surgery and The Wilson Practice in Alton, and Bentley Village Surgery in Bentley are all closed on Christmas Day and Monday 28 December, as well as the intervening weekend, and again on Friday 1 January. They expect the period leading up to Christmas to be very busy, so anything patients can do to help by planning ahead for their routine medical needs would be much appreciated.

For surgery closures over the festive period in your area be sure to check your local GPs website.

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A PART OF www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 5

News Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance teaches children how to respond in an emergency, with ‘999 Hero’ Schools and Youth Campaign

OLD BASING

VILLAGE HALL

It is already being used for most indoor sports and leisure activities, corporate functions, private parties, shows and dances.

Do you know how to dial the Emergency Services on a locked phone? Or what to expect when making a 999 call? Can you remember your own address and phone number? These are some of the questions that Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance will be asking primary school children in their drive to educate young people about how to respond in an emergency and to highlight the importance of the Air Ambulance and other emergency services.

On October 9, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance launched its ‘999 Hero’ campaign at North Walls Recreation Ground, Winchester. This campaign will be rolled out to schools and youth groups across the region throughout the Autumn, providing teachers, parents and children with the necessary tools and knowledge to become a 999 Hero and possibly save a life. At the forefront of the campaign are five super hero characters, inspired by the charity’s team of paramedics, doctors and pilots.

The characters will be featured on a new website (www.hiowaa.org/skyheroes56) specifically designed for young people, so that they can access vital safety information, fundraising ideas, games and a news page of activity from across the region. In addition, primary schools will benefit from a 30 minute interactive presentation for pupils in class or assembly, plus a surprise visit from one of the charity’s three new mascots; Pat the Paramedic, Teddy Medic and Herocopter.

Free Toys for Toy Libraries!

Families Hampshire North is looking for distributors in the Hook & Fleet areas. If you have a car, a few hours spare every two months and want to earn some extra money, please contact:

Sara Dawson on 01256 330147 or email editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 6

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

There is also the FRANK GODDARD ROOM A custom built meeting room, which can be adapted for most requirements.

Contact Sandie Rice on 01256 477637 or terrance.rice@btinternet.com.

Nearly New Sales

Aldworth School, Western Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6HA. 2pm to 3.30pm.

Contact tom@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk www.babyandchildrensmarkets. co.uk

www.bizzy-bitz.com

Congratulations to Nia Herbert who was the lucky winner of a weekend away on the Isle of Wight with Wightlink Ferries.

Facilities include a large multi-function hall with stage and kitchen.

Basingstoke 21st November

Bizzy Bitz is a relatively new construction toy system. In order to celebrate the launch of their new clear instruction sheets, Bizzy Bitz is donating 100’s of boxes of 350 pieces of their building blocks to Toy Libraries around the country. If you are a parent who borrows toys from a Toy Library and would like your child to have a play with Bizzy Bitz, please ask them to email info@bizzy-bitz.com to receive a box (if they have not yet received one).

Wightlink competition winner!

Whatever your function needs we can meet them

Youngest Entrepreneurs enter Dragons’ Den Sisters Kia and Sky Ballantyne, aged 14 and 12, became the youngest entrepreneurs to ever pitch to the formidable Dragons’ Den panel.

Their clever product, a harness for children who are learning to ride their bike, started as school homework, and has grown into a business. They are now selling their Crikey Bikey® harness on their website www.crikeybikey.com and in national retailers such as Evans Cycles and Mountain Warehouse. The girls are running their business largely by themselves!

Following their pitch, Touker Suleyman, a leading fashion entrepreneur and global manufacturer, offered “Touker Time” and has generously offered to mentor them.

Crikey Bikey® retails for £19.99 on their website.

Education When friends fall out: how to help your child cope with playground arguments

By Liat Hughes Joshi Your child is happy at school and has made some good friends. Then the dreaded playground squabble strikes, the tears roll and you’re stuck as to ways to help…here’s how: Relax (a bit): it’s normal Ask primary school teachers and they’ll doubtless tell you that kids fall out (and in again) as quickly as a round of Hokey Cokey. It’s normal and most squabbles are soon forgotten: kids don’t bear grudges the way grown-ups tend to. Unfortunately this knowledge won’t console your heartbroken child much, so…

Reassure, hug and listen Even if it’ll probably blow over, your child might well feel like their world is collapsing. Give hugs, provide shoulders to cry on and tissues.

Help them to help themselves Once they’re calmer, instead of providing straight solutions, encourage your child to think through what they could do to resolve this, with guidance from you behind the scenes. If there’s been a misunderstanding, how could they instigate chat to explain? If the other child is consistently mean to them, who else could they play with instead?

Resist the temptation to wade in!

Your parental instincts might urge you to tackle the little blighter concerned, or their parents, but hold back. Wait and see if everything settles by itself. Confronting the other child isn’t fair or appropriate. Plus your son or daughter might find it embarrassing if mum or dad piles in to sort their playground problems out.

Proceed with caution with the other parents This is a minefield; many parents will never accept their offspring has done anything wrong. The children will probably make up before the week is out, potentially leaving an awkward feud between the parents (who you’ll have to see at the school gates for the next however many years!).

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘‎How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge Recommended by tutors for the verbal reasoning element of the Durham CEM test

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

A journey of discovery everyday Our Term-Time nursery for babies to 5 years Highly regarded reputation for outdoor learning

Places currently available

If they confront you, and the kids’ argument was relatively minor, it’s sensible to suggest ‘let’s leave the children to sort it out’, or similar. If goings-on were serious, perhaps say that you would rather the school dealt with it.

When to speak to the teacher…

If the dispute involved physical violence, becomes persistent, and/ or your child starts not wanting to go to school or is having trouble sleeping, then do raise it with their teacher. They can then keep a closer eye on the children, intervening if necessary. In a busy class of 30, it’s understandable that they might not be aware of every falling out.

See this as a learning experience There might have been tears but chances are your child will have learnt more about relationships and friendships along the way.

Free Entitlement available for eligible 2,3 and 4 year-olds Contact us to request a prospectus or book a showround Contact Sian on: 01189 834018 info@jubileegems.co.uk Ark House, School Road, Padworth, Berkshire, RG7 4JA www.jubileegems.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 7

Education Local Independent School Open Days

Yateley Manor’s New Creative and Performing Arts Building

St Nicholas’ School, Redfields Lane, Church Crookham Tel. 01252 850121 www.st-nicholas.hants. sch.uk Open day: 10th November 10am to 1pm & 5th March 10am to 1pm St Nicholas’ School Church Crookham educates girls from 3-16 years and boys from 3-7 years and is consistently at the top of the GCSE league tables. It is situated in an extensive rural campus with superb facilities for science, sport, art, music and the performing arts. The school runs an optional extended day from 8am to 6pm with an exciting co-curricular programme.

School buses run from Farnham, Basingstoke, Fleet, Alton, and Farnborough areas.

Yateley Manor, Reading Rd, Tel. 01252 405500 www.yateleymanor.com Open mornings: 14th November 10am to 12pm & 12th March 10am to 12pm • C o-educational day school 3 -13 years • Emphasis on the individual child • Excellent academic results • Inspirational teaching in superb facilities • Woodland Learning Area • National leader in chess and sport • Safe, vibrant, stimulating environment • Creative & Performing Arts building opened September 2015 • Modern Languages Suite opened September 2015 • 49 weeks’ care for younger children • Inclusive and simple fee structure and work friendly hours • Coaches from Camberley, Farnborough, Fleet, Odiham and Hook

Yateley Manor has a reputation for excellence in the creative arts. These subjects often prove to be a key ingredient in a child’s voyage of self-discovery. A brand new creative arts block has recently been opened at the school which provides state of the art facilities to further develop the skills of pupils in all aspects of the creative fields.

The dedicated Music School affords six bright and airy practice rooms as well as a separate percussion room, each with a brand new piano purchased by the PTA. A large number of peripatetic music teachers support children in reaching ever improving levels. These skills feed in to one or more of the 26 musical ensembles including various choirs, ukulele group and school orchestra. A music technology suite adds to the facilities, where pupils are able to play keyboards and record pieces into computers for manipulation through the software provided. Final pieces can be played through the new audio system.

Spacious, light and well-equipped Art and Design Technology rooms encourage children to be creative and solve problems.

A strong focus on the design process gives children a firm foundation and builds on previous skills.

A new Modern Foreign Languages Department completes the innovative package, with three classrooms complemented by new interactive whiteboards and audio equipment. All the benefits of the language lab can also be accessed with the suite of desktop machines, headphones and relevant software.

Headmaster Robert Upton said, “We are thrilled with the new building. The facilities are exemplary and further enhance the school’s intention to be a leading light in education.”

Improve 11+ Vocabulary in a Flash We believe that parents are invaluable in helping a child develop a rich vocabulary, which is critical to success in the 11+.

Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards offer a bank of challenging words, child-friendly definitions and synonyms, specifically developed for the 11+. We’ve done the hard work so you can focus on your area of expertise: your child.

Flash cards are a powerful learning tool; simple and versatile and used regularly will boost both confidence and results. Don’t just “do” vocabulary once a week - repetition is the key to internalising new words. Stick them up in the kitchen; practise them on the go; challenge each other to sneak them into conversation; even act them out!

Level 1 – Confidence building: abduct burrow coop dray fleet miser optician sage...

Level 2 - Serious about vocabulary: amalgamate audacious bolster contrite disperse fatigue pageant tenacious...

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Opposites Level 1/2 – Synonyms and antonyms: abundant/scarce commence/conclude melancholy/euphoric replenish/deplete...

Compound – Challenging compounds: lime + rick = limerick pen + chant = penchant ill + iterate = illiterate par + able = parable...

A great vocabulary is an asset for life, not just for the 11+: it’s worth the effort.

For more information visit www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Christmas

Advance booking is required for most.

Where to see Santa!

Finkley Down Farm Park Andover, SP11 6NF

Magical Christmas at Finkley

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27 November to 24 December

Note that it is not possible to book for this event. Payment is to be made on arrival and you will be allocated a time slot. For groups of 8 or more children contact info@finkleydownfarm. co.uk.

It’s a Magical Christmas at Finkley Down Farm. The Elves will take you on an adventure and stamp your Santa Passport at each activity, before meeting Santa in his Magical Grotto, where each child receives a toy. See website for ticket pricing. www.finkleydownfarm.co.uk

Marwell Wildlife

Thompson’s Lane, Colden Common, SO21 1JY

Christmas at Marwell

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21 November to 24 December Make your family’s Christmas magical this winter and join in the festivities at Marwell Zoo as we celebrate with a few special friends. Join the elves in their magical woodland and warm yourself with a glass of mulled wine or blackcurrant and a festive treat. Enjoy a variety of festive activities before being called to meet Santa in his sparkling grotto and receiving a special gift. Ticket prices from £15.60.

NB - Superstar day on 2 December for families of children or adults with additional needs. Check website for details. www.marwell.org.uk

Milestones Museum

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Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG

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Traditional Father Christmas Grotto

12 & 13, 19 & 20 December Visit Father Christmas in his traditional grotto located in the Victorian Railway station waiting room. You and your children can meet Father Christmas for 10 minutes (for up to 4 children) and he will give each child a gift. £3.50 per child plus normal admission charge to the museum. www.hampshireculturaltrust.org.uk/milestones-museum

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Miller’s Ark Animals

Miller’s Ark Animals, Manor Farm, Blackstocks Lane, Hook, RG27 9PH

Santa’s Arrival

28 & 29 November and 12, 19 & 22 December Visit Santa in his Magical Grotto at Miller’s Ark this Christmas, as part of festive open day activities. See website for more information about other events & activities. Tickets are £7 for open day plus additional £5 per child for Santa’s grotto, which will include a small gift. Booking is essential. www.millersark.co.uk

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Paultons Park

Ower, Romsey, SO51 6AL

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland

14 November to 23 December Visit Santa’s Christmas Wonderland at Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World this festive season for a magical family experience.

The amazing land allows youngsters to meet with Santa’s elves, working hard in the toy factory. To make the journey truly magical, children can meet Santa Claus himself and receive an exciting present.

Adults & children over 3 years £25.75, under 3 years £19.25, under 12 months £6. www.paultonspark.co.uk

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Watercress Line Alresford, SO24 9JG

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Santa Special

5, 6, 12, 13, 19 to 24 December See Santa on a steam train as you take a one hour round trip through the scenic Hampshire countryside. Santa visits every child in their seat with a special gift. Adults & children £18, under 12 months £10. www.watercressline.co.uk

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Hawk Conservancy Trust Weyhill, Andover, SP11 8DY

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Breakfast or Tea with Father Christmas

Breakfast – 12 & 13, 19 & 20 December Tea – 13 December After a hearty breakfast or home-cooked tea, children will have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas in his grotto and the miniature donkeys. Tickets include tea or breakfast, and a gift from Father Christmas. £8.95 per child, £7.50 per adult. 9am for breakfast and 4pm for tea. www.hawk-conservancy.org

Festival Place

Basingstoke, RG21 7LJ

The Christmas Experience

13 November to 24 December The best way to meet Santa, here children will have the © Digital South Ltd chance to enjoy a Christmas train trip before making a special visit to Santa’s festive grotto.

There will be extended opening from the 14 December until the 24 December when it will close at 3pm as Santa leaves Festival Place to get ready for his busy night! To book your place visit www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/festivalplace

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 9

Christmas Here are a few gift ideas to get you started…

Baby Unique

Baby Unique

Beautiful handmade affordable personalised handmade baby/ Handmade children’s gifts. Perfect for baby art androom. All showers, christenings, or just for yourpicture own child’s wooden gifts designed and handmade by Sam, who is happy to work baby.unique06@yahoo.com with you if you have something specific you want, giving you Unique something that is very different to what is available Baby elsewhere.

This could be the best purchase you make for a special little Now featuriNg iN ‘all our owN Crafts’ person. All gifts come gift-wrapped. Contact popbaby.unique06@ up shop iN BasiNgstoke yahoo.com

Buy online or call 01786 473508

iBeani

Tablets are now a mainstay in the modern home, but holding a device for hours on end can be tiring and annoying. This is where the iBeani comes in… Whilst other tablet stands will only work on flat surfaces, the iBeani is able to shift its shape to support and keep your device in the position you want, wherever you are. On the train, on the sofa or on a kitchen worktop, the iBeani works everywhere!

The iBeani is manufactured entirely in the UK from carefully selected quality fabrics to ensure customers get the highest quality and durable product possible. There are over 20 different variations of the iBeani with different materials and designs such as grey check, butterfly, techno black, mexicana, denim, and many more to appeal to men, women and children of all ages this Christmas.

Available from www.ibeani.co.uk with prices starting at £24.99

Andy and the Oddsocks - who invited this lot?

Popular CBeebies presenter, Andy Day, has just released his first album ‘Andy and the Oddsocks, who invited this lot?’ Featuring 11 original songs written by Andy, in conjunction with Bunkersonix (the team behind many of the BBC theme tunes), and performed with some of his co-stars, Sid Sloane and Katy Ashworth, this would make an ideal stocking filler for a CBeebies fan. Children enjoy catchy songs they can pick up easily and sing along to, and even more so when they’re being sung by someone they know from their favourite television channel.

The CD is available on www.andyday.tv for £7.99.

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Make your child the star of their very own Personalised Story Book

Labels4Kids.com provides story books with Disney Frozen Fever, Disney Princesses and many more. Personalise them with your child’s name and perhaps those of their best friends or cousins and let them be part of an epic story! A great gift idea for Christmas and now available on our website. Order early so we can send them to you before Christmas - these adventure books are custom made and take up to 2-3 weeks for Christmas delivery.

Get yours today from www.labels4kids.com/fam2

Brain Tumour Research’s Limited Edition brooches are the perfect stocking filler!

Celebrated milliners Rachel Trevor Morgan and Vivien Sheriff are among those who have collaborated with the charity to produce these gorgeous brooches in order to raise funds for their annual Wear A Hat Day. Suggested donation £10. Visit www.braintumourresearch.org or call 01296 733011 to secure yours today! (Each brooch is limited to a run of 500.)

Christmas Let’s go shopping! Find original festive goodies and gifts at some of the Christmas Markets & Fayres across the area.

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Winchester, SO23 9LS 19th November to 22nd December, from 10am

CHRISTMAS TREES

Now in its tenth year, find over 100 beautifully decorated wooden chalets stunningly situated at the foot of the Cathedral in the historic Close, brimming with Christmas gifts, decorations, and festive foods. Open every day from 10am, various closing times – see website for details. www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/christmas

Wreath Kits & Decorations

© Winchester Cathedral by Joe Low

Plus Christmas Treats for all the family including Christmas Pudding Ice Cream, Jams, Chutney and Honey.

28th Nov to 22nd Dec 9.30am to 4.30pm daily (inc Mondays) www.westgreenfruits.com T• 01252 845772 M• 07954 730143

Newlyns Christmas Fayre

Newlyns Lodge Farm, Hook, RG29 1HA 21st November, 10am to 3pm Traditional Christmas Fayre with a wide variety of festive food and gifts, plus the opportunity to sample a selection of Newlyns delicious products. www.newlyns-farmshop.co.uk

Ainee’s Bazaar - Christmas Market

Alton Assembly Rooms, High Street, Alton, GU34 1BA 22nd November, 2pm to 4pm

Baby Unique Handmade picture art and wooden gifts baby.unique06@yahoo.com Baby Unique Now featuriNg iN ‘all our owN Crafts’ pop up shop iN BasiNgstoke

Chineham Village Hall, Thornhill Way, Chineham, RG24 8YE 28th November, 1.30pm to 3.30pm Get into the festive spirit! A fabulous collection of local businesses, crafters and artisans, selling a unique range of products you won’t find on the high street. Afterwards, relax and enjoy the fantastic cafe serving delicious cakes. Adults £1, under 16s free. www.aineesbazaar.co.uk

The Malls Christmas Market

The Malls Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7QU 23rd November to 2nd January A host of different stalls, from traditional Bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, linen and embroidered goods. www.themalls.co.uk

Tues 15th - Thurs 24th December Shows at 10am, 12pm & 2.30pm

Proteus Creation Space, Council Road, RG21 3DH. Tickets £6.50

Book online www.wegottickets.com/proteustheatre

Christmas Trees and Other Goodies

West Green Fruits, West Green Road, Hartley Wintney, RG27 8LP 28th November to 22nd December, 9.30am to 4.30pm Visit the Christmas Barn to choose your Christmas tree, enjoy a hot drink, and have a look at other goodies on sale. www.westgreenfruits.com

The Lights Wrapped Up Christmas Fair

The Lights, West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH 28th November, 10am to 4pm

An opportunity to get ahead in the present buying game by browsing and buying from stalls carrying quality craft items.

Touring 19th Nov to 17th Jan

A thrilling, hauntingly beautiful and contemporary version of the classic tale, Little Red Riding Hood. Funny, scary, action packed and featuring the usual hallmarks of Proteus’ highly acclaimed and much loved family shows.

Suitable for familes and children aged 5+

To see the touring schedule and to book tickets visit www.proteustheatre.com/littlered

www.thelights.org.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 11

Christmas Festive Fun & What’s on Closed Christmas Day. Tickets are from the Cathedral Box Office on 01962 857 275 and online. Open from 9.45am, last session at 7.45pm. £10.50 adults, £8.50 concessions, £6 children aged 4-7, £33 family (2 adults and 2 children). © Digital South Ltd

Events at Festival Place Festival Place Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LJ Christmas Light switch on and Fireworks Spectacular!

13th November The Christmas entertainment will kick off on Friday 13th November with the centre’s famous annual light switch on to an incredible firework display. Marking the official start of Christmas, the event will include performances from ‘Walk Like A Man’ Jersey Boys tribute act featuring four West End vocalists, the Military Wives Choir and some of the best Sound Stage acts from the recent Summer Festival. From 5.30pm.

Santa Parade 6th December Heralding the official start of the countdown to Christmas.

Christmassy acts will walk around the centre for 1 hour from 11.30am. Something for the whole family to get into the Christmas Spirit. www.festivalplace.co.uk

See our competition on page 15 to win tickets to this performance.

www.winchester-cathedral. org.uk/christmas

Activities at Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS Evergreen Christmas Wreaths 1st & 2nd December Come and join the creative fun by making an evergreen wreath from forest materials. If you’re a quick worker you might also have time for some table decorations! Adults only. 10am to 12.15pm. £16.

Christmas Tree Sales Throughout December until sold out Come and buy your Christmas tree direct from the forest and enjoy a wintery walk at the same time. Why not warm up afterwards with a cup of hot chocolate and some festive treats at the café? www.forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt

Mulled Wine Weekend

Gilbert White’s House, High Street, Selborne, Alton, GU34 3JH 5th & 6th December

© Winchester Cathedral by Joe Low

Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Winchester, SO23 9LS 19th November to 3rd January Experience an exhilarating skate under the stars with friends and family at this beautiful open-air real ice rink. 1 hour sessions include free skate hire. Minimum age limit is 4 years although sessions for 2+ are available.

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A great traditional family Christmas at Gilbert White’s Historic House and garden. See the house transformed into a festive Georgian house, with local choirs carol singing, and Wassailing activities for all the family. 10.30am to 4.30pm. www.gilbertwhiteshouse. org.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Christmas Carols & Owls by Moonlight Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover, SP11 8DY 11th & 12th December

FUNDRAISING EVENT: Join in an evening of Christmas carols, traditional and modern, played

by Test Valley Brass and sung to the accompaniment of the voices of Andover Museum Loft Singers, plus a special owl flying demonstration and bird holding session! 7pm. £17.50, includes a mince pie and mulled wine. www.hawk-conservancy.org

Reindeer & Stars Willow Workshop

Basingstoke Discovery Centre, Festival Place Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LS 12th December Take a break from shopping and have fun making some rustic Christmas decorations from willow. We will be making tiny reindeer, lots of simple stars to hang in your windows and a little woven tree. Suitable for ages 10 - adult. Booking is recommended. 10.30am and 1.30pm. £15. www3.hants.gov.uk/library/ bsdc.htm

Edible Gifts Workshop

Whitchurch 19th December

Cookery Doodle Doo have created a children’s Edible Gifts Workshop, for adults to participate in with their kids.

Taking 2-3 hours and suitable for ages 3-10, you will leave with 6 different hand-made edible gifts for friends and family of all ages. Tickets are £42.50 for one child, or purchase a sibling ticket for £69.50 (making double quantities). Accompanying adults attend for free, but are limited to one per child. The workshop will take place in Whitchurch on 19 December at 2pm, with refreshments provided. Contact katie.black@ cookerydoodledoo.com to book and for more information.

Cracker Factory

The Vyne, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL 19th to 22nd December Come and have a go at making your own Christmas cracker.

Various time slots from 12pm to 3pm. £3, plus normal admission charges to property. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ vyne

Christmas Leave – Experience Christmas on a WWII railway!

Watercress Line, Alresford, SO24 9JG 26th & 27th December

Experience the atmosphere of a WWII Christmas! Join civilian and military re-enactors and witness the relief and joy of returning home from war. With song, steam and seasonal merriment, this is the perfect place to bring your family & guests after Christmas! Adults £17, children £9, family (2+2) £43. Various times – see website for details. www.watercressline.co.uk

Events at The Malls

The Malls Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7QU

Christmas Light switch on 20th November In association with St Michaels’ Hospice. Enjoy Carol singing around the Christmas Tree with a celebrity guest and Father Christmas! From 6.30pm.

Young Enterprise Trade Fair 21st November Local school entrepreneurs display their wares. A chance to buy some original gifts.

Cairngorm Reindeer Day 22nd November Meet some majestic animals and Father Christmas at this Annual Reindeer Day event in Castle Square. From 11am. www.themalls.co.uk

Christmas A country house at Christmas This November and December The Vyne is celebrating this seasonal time with ‘A country house at Christmas’. Seven rooms of the house are to be decorated in traditional way with the chance for children to make their own crackers in the cracker factory (£3 per cracker).

After you have explored the house and gardens, why not treat yourself to Lady Chute’s Christmas afternoon tea with festive sandwiches, cakes and tea all served on the best china with a glass of champagne to finish the afternoon off in style (£25 for two people, please call 01256 885416 to book). If you fancy something heartier, book

for one of their Christmas lunches in the Brewhouse. Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner with roast turkey or nut roast and all the trimmings with dessert and take a tasty treat of a mince pie home with you.

After all this seasonal fun, start the New Year with the New Year amble through the grounds on 2nd January, from 11am.

There is fun for all the family this Christmas at The Vyne, so why not check out their website for more information www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne/.

Booking is essential for all events listed.

Christmas Classics at Gilbert White’s House Gilbert White & The Oates Collections are presenting a host of theatrical Christmas family treats on the 12th December 2015, where they are joined by Quantum Theatre Company to produce not one Christmas Classics but two!

In the afternoon experience Hans Christian Anderson’s The Snow Queen, the story that inspired Disney’s Frozen. Aimed at children the performance tells the tale of Kai and Gerda. When Kai is tricked into the Snow Queen’s Palace it is up to Gerda to rescue him! This beautiful and timeless story will begin at 2:30pm and run for 2hrs.

Before the performance children and parents are invited to the Hampshire Barn to take part in a Snow Queen themed activity

morning. With lots of arts and crafts to turn the barn into a beautiful icy palace in time for the performance, the morning runs from 10:30am-12:30pm.

In the evening be transported away from the fairy tale ice palace to Victorian London, as Quantum perform A Christmas Carol from 7:30pm. Come and join Scrooge, a horrible mean spirited man, as he learns the true meaning of Christmas and is made to see the errors of his ways on Christmas Eve by three mysterious spirits.

Further information about the two performances and the activity morning, as well as a chance to book your tickets, can be found on their website. www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk/events

This year’s traditional family pantomime at The Anvil in Basingstoke is Jack and the Beanstalk When Dame Trott sends her son Jack to market, little do they know that swapping Daisy the cow for a handful of beans will result in an overgrown beanstalk, a hungry giant, a wicked henchman … and fabulous golden treasure!

Taking the villainous role of Fleshcreep is Mark Little, best known as Joe Mangle in the soap phenomenon Neighbours. The Forest Fairy is Melanie Walters, best known for her role as Stacey’s mum Gwen West in the BAFTA Award-winning series Gavin and Stacey for the BBC. Taking the title role of Jack is Mark Rhodes, best known as one half of the hugely popular duo Sam and Mark. Most recently seen on CBBC with the popular

entertainment show Sam & Mark’s Big Friday Wind Up, for which the duo won their first Children’s BAFTA, Mark has come a long way since Pop Idol in 2003, where he and Sam came 2nd and 3rd.

The clown of the panto, Simple Simon, is played by Chris Pizzey, best known for being Basil’s side kick Mr Stephen in CBBC’s The Basil Brush Show.

Jack and the Beanstalk will run from Thursday 10 December 2015 to Sunday 3 January 2016.

Tickets are now on sale, so call The Anvil box office on 01256 844244 or visit www.anvilarts.org.uk for the most up-todate information.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 13

Christmas What’s on at the theatre this festive season!

Gilbert White’s House

without the rude bits! Tickets £7; family (2+2) £25.

High Street, Selborne, Alton, GU34 3JH

15th December to 3rd January Starring ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ champion and Streetdance Movie star George Sampson. This is the biggest most spectacular pantomime Fleet has ever seen!

Various start times - see website for details. Tickets from £5.

www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

Snow Queen

12th December, 10.30am & 2.30pm Welcoming Quantum Theatre to the Hampshire Barn for an exciting day of performances. In the morning children aged 5-8 can help to decorate the barn for the performance which follows in the afternoon. See website for ticket prices.

A Christmas Carol

12th December, 7.30pm Quantum Theatre’s delightful new production captures all the warmth and humanity, anguish and earie portent of this festive classic. Adults £12, children £8.

Aladdin – Pantomime

The Magicians Live at Christmas

18th December, 8pm See website for further details.

Tickets £12.

The Lights West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH

Barbados House, Station Road, Bordon, GU35 0LR www.phoenixarts.co.uk

Little Red & The Wolves

11th December, 7.30pm For winter 2015 Proteus create a thrilling, hauntingly beautiful and contemporary version of the classic Little Red Riding Hood. For ages 5 years+. Adults £10, under 16s £7.

The Three Billy Goats Gruff

16th December, 2pm & 5pm An interactive family treat with a delightful festive twist. Running time 40 minutes. For ages 3 to 6 years.

A Victorian Christmas - Blast from the Past

17th December, 7.30pm A fun and festive celebration of the Yuletide our ancestors would have known and is guaranteed to delight and enthral audiences from young to old. £10.

Fleet Road, Fleet, GU51 4BY www.theharlington.co.uk

Comedy Club 4 Kids

21st November, 2pm Recommended for children ages 6+, although younger may attend and thoroughly enjoy! This 60 minute show features the best comedians on the UK circuit, giving children the feel of a real comedy club - just

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The Snow Dragon

2nd to 12th December Presented by Tall Stories. Storytelling, comedy and songs create a magical, mysterious world for everyone aged 3 and up. Relaxed performance for those on the autistic spectrum and with other disabilities on Thursday 10th Dec at 1pm. See website for ticket prices & performance times.

Santa Town

15th to 24th December, 10am, 12pm & 2.30pm All aboard for Santa Town! Get your ticket, hop aboard and enjoy the ride to this magical, Christmassy town full of festive surprises! Under 5s Christmas show. £6.50 [under 12 months go free].

Victoria & Appleton Centre

The Anvil

Snow Play

West Green Road, Hartley Wintney, RG27 8RQ

Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR

www.whatsonvictoria.co.uk

8th, 9th & 10th December, 10.30am, 1.30pm and an extra show at 6pm on 10th Lyngo Theatre tell this highlyinteractive story of the show-down between winter and spring! From £7.

12th December, 2pm & 7pm Ballet Theatre UK re-tell Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale ballet in this spectacular production about Gerda and her quest to find her friend Kay, whom the Snow Queen has placed under an evil spell. From £13.50.

www.anvilarts.org.uk

So This is Christmas!

2nd December, 7.45pm Join the best Yuletide party in town, full of festive cheer, glitter, magic and sparkle. From £22.

Beauty and the Beast – Pantomime

15th & 16th December, 7pm and 1.30pm on 16th An Andover College production. Tickets from £3.

Santa’s Christmas Cracker

21st December, 10am & 1.30pm Join the adventure of Dotty the Elf and Pompom the Penguin in a festive, interactive, song-filled visit to Santa’s home that helps them discover the meaning of Christmas. Particularly suitable for 2 to 7 year olds. From £9.

Sing-a-long-a Frozen

The Harlington

19th to 28th November, 7.30pm and 2.30pm on Saturdays Join Danny and Sandy, along with the club-jacketed, sassy Pink Ladies, super-cool Burger Palace Boys and the rest of the gang at Rydell High for this electrifying rock n roll show. Tickets from £14.

www.thelights.org.uk

The Snow Queen

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre

Grease

22nd December, 11am, 2.30pm & 6pm A full screening of Disney’s FROZEN with lyrics on screen to help you sing along during the film. From £10.

See our competition on page 15 to win tickets to this performance.

The Haymarket Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW www.anvilarts.org.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

The Nutcracker Jack and the Beanstalk

10th December to 3rd January With thrilling adventures, gigantic laughs, and spectacular sets and costumes, this promises to be a giant treat for the whole family.

Book early to climb into the best seats - it’s the pantomime you’ve ‘bean’ waiting for! See website for details of start times & ticket prices.

16th December, 7.15pm 27th December, 2.30pm Christmas simply would not be Christmas without The Royal Ballet`s classic production of The Nutcracker. A young girls enchanted present leads her on a wonderful adventure, a sequence of dreams and enchantments to the land of snow and the kingdom of sweets. Danced to Tchaikovsky`s glittering score. Adults £12.50, under 15s £7.50.

The Central Studio Proteus Theatre Company Proteus Creation Space, Council Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3DH www.proteustheatre.com

Little Red & The Wolves

19th to 25th November, 7pm and 2pm on 21st For winter 2015 a thrilling, hauntingly beautiful and contemporary version of the classic Little Red Riding Hood. Relaxed performance on 25th November for people with additional needs [carers go free].

Tickets from £5.

Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3HF www.centralstudio.co.uk

The Singing Ringing Tree

21st November, 11am Krazy Kat theatre specialise in introducing young people and their grown-ups to the delights of live visual theatre. They craft stylish young people’s shows which adults like to see, and adult shows which children can enjoy. Suitable for hearing impaired and appeals to audiences of all ages. Adults £10, children £8.

Christmas WIN a LEGO Disney Princess™ set and tickets to Sing-a-long-a Frozen ®

Build your own fairy-tale with the LEGO® Disney Princess™ collection including Elsa’s Sparkling Ice Castle (rrp £34.99). A must for Frozen fans, it offers lots of frosty adventures with mini-dolls of Elsa, Anna and Olaf, a secret staircase, ice cream bar and icicle tree plus fun accessories including skis, ice skates and Olaf’s carrot nose!

As part of a national UK tour, The Lights in Andover hosts Singa-long-a Frozen on 22nd December, a full screening of Disney’s FROZEN with lyrics on screen. Introduced by a live host to guide you through this interactive screening showing you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your singing voices and teach you some dance moves with the help of the Singalonga Princesses.

Age recommendation 5+.

One lucky reader will win a LEGO® Disney Princess™ Elsa’s Sparkling Ice Castle set and a family ticket to Sing-a-long-a Frozen at The Lights on 22nd December. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer the following question: What is the name of the playful snowman in the film Frozen?

we Julia Donaldson/Axel Schef & TM Magic Light Pictur fer.

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Try our

Stick Man activity trail

at t more Find ou y.gov.uk/ tr s fore n stickma

Christmas

Exciting forest activities for all ages.

Evergreen Christmas wreaths, Tree sales plus from December try our new Stick Man activity trail!

Booking essential call 0300 067 4448 forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt Alice Holt Forest

To enter visit www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/ competitions. Terms & conditions apply. Competition closes at midnight on 5th December 2015. www.lego.com/disneyprincess www.singalonga.net/frozen LEGO® and the LEGO logo are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2015 The LEGO Group. ©2015 Disney.

WIN two family tickets for ice-skating at The Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

© Winchester Cathedral by Joe Low

Winchester’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink - 10 Years On! 2015 marks the tenth year of Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink. From relatively modest beginnings, these major events now attract over 350,000 visitors a year and have achieved a reputation as being amongst the very best in Europe.

The Christmas Market started in 2006 with just 40 stalls and now boasts over 100 pretty chalets brimming with gifts, decorations and festive foods. There’s an area dedicated to British crafts and a food court offering a range of mouth-watering treats to enjoy on the spot or take home.

The Ice Rink is situated in the heart of the Christmas Market and with the Cathedral providing a stunning backdrop. It really is the perfect winter playground for adults and children alike. Special Tiny Tots sessions are available for children as young as 2 to enjoy the rink. For times and ticket prices please see the Cathedral website. The Ice Rink Café, with its new look for 2015 includes a heated outdoor seating area overlooking the rink.

For further details visit www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ christmas.

Two lucky readers can win a family ticket for an ice-skating session at this rink. To be in with a chance of winning answer the following question: 2015 marks how many years of the Christmas Market and Ice Rink at Winchester Cathedral?

To enter, go to www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/ competitions. Terms and conditions apply. Competition closes at midnight on 30th November 2015.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 15

C H R I S T M A S M A R K E T | 19 November – 22 December 2015 I C E R I N K | 19 November – 3 January 2016

01962 857 276 | www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

With over 160 big brands for inspired gifts and magical Christmas fun for the whole family, this is your Festive Place.

The fun starts on 13th November with the Big Light Switch On.

Your Christmas shopping destination.

For details of our Christmas opening times and activities, visit festivalplace.co.uk